Philadelphia police are investigating the theft of an employee's laptop and encrypted USB flash drives from an election machine warehouse, the Philadelphia City Commissioner's office confirmed Wednesday. Officials said the stolen laptop did not contain any election materials and wasn't capable of programming any of the city's election machines.

The city commissioner's office said the laptop's security features prevent unauthorized access and that the user account has already been disabled, according to CBS Philly. They added that they were "rechecking all of the seals on the already tested machines."

"We are confident that this incident will not in any way compromise the integrity of the election," the city commissioner's office said in a statement.

Election Systems & Software is the manufacturer of the election machine. An ES&S spokesperson said the encrypted USB flash drives taken from the facility in Philadelphia's East Falls neighborhood "contain multiple levels of security" and the laptop is "not used to program the election or interact with USBs used in elections."

"Upon learning of the theft, ES&S immediately changed the employee's corporate network user account and the device address was blocked and passwords changed," the spokesperson said. "ES&S is confident that this incident will not in any way compromise the integrity of the election."

Anyone with any information regarding the stolen laptop and USBs was asked to contact Philly police at 215-686-8477.

Officials reject Trump's debate claims

Meanwhile, Philadelphia and Pennsylvania election officials on Wednesday pushed back against "completely inaccurate" comments President Donald Trump made about the city's satellite election offices during Tuesday night's presidential debate with Democratic nominee Joe Biden.

Mr. Trump encouraged his supporters to monitor Election Day polling places for instances of fraud.

Story continues

A poll worker hangs on the ballot box at a satellite election office at Temple University's Liacouras Center, September 29, 2020, in Philadelphia. / Credit: Matt Slocum/AP

"I am encouraging my supporters to go into the polls and watch very carefully, because that's what has to happen  I am urging them to do it," Mr. Trump said during the chaotic inaugural debate held in Cleveland.

"There was a big problem, in Philadelphia they went in to watch, they're called poll watchers, very safe very nice thing  they were thrown out, they weren't allowed to watch," he said, adding, "You know why? Because bad things happen in Philadelphia, bad things."

The president's call to supporters was also different than calling for certified poll watchers. As CBS News' Cara Korte reported, by encouraging his supporters to watch for "fraud" in an unofficial capacity, the president was suggesting they commit a federal crime. It is illegal in all 50 states for civilians to loiter around polling places and intimidate voters. The president has previously encouraged supporters to intentionally vote twice, which is also illegal.

City officials reiterated Wednesday the satellite election offices are not polling places and therefore, poll watchers are unnecessary and not allowed.

"It is not a polling location," Philadelphia City Commissioner Lisa Deeley said. "It is a temporary election office where services are made available to citizens who would like to register to vote or request their mail-in ballot. They can vote their mail ballot there or they can take it home and vote on it at their dining room table."

The Trump campaign is threatening to sue over the satellite election offices.

Reporting by CBS Philly.

Trump attempts to clean up "stand by" comment, earlier refusal to denounce white supremacists

House to vote on new COVID-19 relief package as Pelosi negotiates with White House

Donald Trump Jr. explains President Trump's debate stance by saying he's "a fighter"
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky considers it necessary to restore a full political dialogue between Ukraine and China, and looks forward to exchange visits with President of the People's Republic of China Xi Jinping.

"Ukraine is developing and moving forward. I also want to see progress in Ukrainian and Chinese relations. In my opinion, the time has come to give our dialogue new impetus. I think that for this we need to restore a full political dialogue between our states. We need to restore the dynamics of bilateral contacts at the level of ministries and departments, at the level of heads of government, parliaments and, of course, leaders. I would be glad to welcome President of the People's Republic of China Xi Jinping to Ukraine," he said in an interview with the Xinhua Chinese news agency, released on the presidential website.

The President of Ukraine also said that it would be a great honor for him to visit China.
Tensions between China and the U.S. have climbed ever higher in recent months, with clashes over Chinese tech companies becoming a huge flash point. David Sanger, The Timess national security correspondent, joined us for a DealBook Debrief call with readers to discuss the battle between Washington and Beijing over tech companies like Huawei and TikTok.

Highlights:

Would you let the Chinese or Russians build your F-35 fighter?

The fundamental concern of the Trump administration is Americas national infrastructure. David compared the installation of 5G wireless technology to the F-35 jet fighter, a more obviously crucial component to national defense. He said that the White Houses effort to ban Huawei products from the 5G network came down to this question: If you turn your network infrastructure over to a foreign power and theyre controlling it, what would happen if the order came down in a time of conflict to turn it off?

TikTok you dont depend on for keeping your economy running in time of conflict.

Theres a difference between Huawei and TikTok, the Chinese video app that the Trump administration has threatened to ban over concerns about the security of users data. If 5G technology was comparable to the F-35 in terms of importance, David said, social media is akin to military uniforms.

Huawei will control 40 percent of the worlds telecommunications.

The Trump administration may have persuaded Britain to bar Huawei from its 5G networks, and Europe may also take a harder line on the Chinese telecom equipment maker. But Huawei still has plenty of customers around the globe, potentially dividing the world into American and Chinese internet tech. And even then, simply excluding Huawei from the U.S.-centric internet wont be easy, David cautioned. What were doing right now over Zoom or over social media, chances are a good deal of its going to run through a Chinese switch somewhere in the world, he noted.
Winnipeg continues to grow as a COVID-19 hot spot with 92 new cases identified in the city by public health officials over the weekend.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/9/2020 (481 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

This 2020 electron microscope image made available by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases shows a Novel Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 particle isolated from a patient, in a laboratory in Fort Detrick, Md. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP-NIAID/NIH via AP

Winnipeg continues to grow as a COVID-19 hot spot with 92 new cases identified in the city by public health officials over the weekend.

Today marks the first day Winnipeg and the surrounding municipalities are returning to more public health orders and restrictions, mandated under the provinces pandemic response system as Winnipeg is escalated to a code orange designation. The move was announced Friday by the provinces chief provincial public health officer, Dr. Brent Roussin, along with the decision to mandate masks in indoor public spaces, and limit indoor and outdoor gatherings to 10 people.

"We need to ensure we are making careful choices about who we are spending time with, the nature of that time, as well as the amount of people," Roussin said Friday.

Fifty-one new cases were identified across the province Sunday, with 36 of them identified in the capital. Eight cases were found in the InterlakeEastern health region, four in the Southern Health region, two in the Northern Health region, and a single case in the Prairie Mountain Health region.

Of the 65 new cases Saturday, 56 were in Winnipeg.

Public health officials also notified the public Sunday of another two possible COVID-19 exposures at Winnipeg schools. An individual attended Ecole Precieux-Sang (209 Kenny St.) while possibly infectious on Sept. 18. The same day, health officials say another individual who was possibly infectious attended Sisler High School.

Officials said the risk of exposure in both cases is low and noted the infections were not acquired at the school. Anyone identified as a close contact will be contacted and provided further instructions regarding self-isolation and testing, officials said in letters to parents.

St. Johns-Ravenscourt School and John W. Gunn Middle School were added to the list of possible school-related exposures on Saturday. In both instances, transmission of the virus to the infected individual did not occur at the school.

An outbreak was declared at the Heritage Lodge Long Term Care Home on Portage Avenue in Winnipeg over the weekend. The outbreak moves the facility to a red (or critical) restriction level in the provinces pandemic response system. According to the system, red indicates "the virus is being transmitted at levels that public health and the health system cannot manage" and that "extensive community transmission is occurring."

More widely, Winnipegs code orange status and regulations will be in place for a minimum of 28 days. While Roussin did not mandate the closure of restaurants and bars last week, he did leave open the possibility of new restrictions being implemented this week to try and stymie the citywide outbreak.

Roussin has identified bars as being a part of the problem. He said in one instance a single individual who went to several bars had possibly infected as many as 36 other people.

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.

"We know that even though there are a number of young individuals acquiring the virus in the Winnipeg region, no ones risk is truly their own," Roussin said last week. "These individuals will bring it back home to perhaps younger siblings, to older grandparents or older contacts or people who are more high risk."

Roussin is also concerned about the growth of the test positivity rate (the fraction of tests that come back positive) which on Sunday was 2.2 per cent. It was 2.3 Saturday and as high as 2.6 per cent last week.

Winnipeg and Manitoba are far from the only places in the country struggling with a second wave of novel coronavirus cases. On Sunday Ontario reported 491 new COVID-19 cases, the highest daily jump seen since early May.

 with files from The Canadian Press

sarah.lawrynuik@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @SarahLawrynuik
Microsofts new Surface Laptop Go finally looks like the Surface that everyone can buy. Announced Thursday, its a smaller 12.5-inch notebook PC that retains the high points of the Surface lineup, at an accessible $549 price. Microsoft begins selling it October 13.

Microsofts new Surface Laptop Go fits within the niche between the 10.5-inch Surface Go 2 tablet, and the 13-inch versions of the Surface Laptop 3. Inside lies a 10th-gen Core chip, though Microsoft has made some compromises, too: a return to Windows 10 S and a display that doesnt quite reach 1080p resolution.

We havent seen this product in person yet, but we already have a lot of information about it. Keep reading to learn more about this affordable Surface.

Surface Laptop Go: Basic features

Display: 12.45-inch (15361024, 148 ppi) multitouch PixelSense display

12.45-inch (15361024, 148 ppi) multitouch PixelSense display Processor: Core i5-1035G1

Core i5-1035G1 Graphics: UHD Graphics

UHD Graphics Memory: 4GB-8GB LPDDR4x

4GB-8GB LPDDR4x Storage: 64GB eMMC, 128GB-256GB SSD

64GB eMMC, 128GB-256GB SSD Ports: 1 USB-C, 1 USB-A, Surface Connect, 3.5mm audio jack

1 USB-C, 1 USB-A, Surface Connect, 3.5mm audio jack Camera: 720p f2.0 (user-facing)

720p f2.0 (user-facing) Battery: 13 hours of typical device usage with Fast Charging

13 hours of typical device usage with Fast Charging Wireless: WiFi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.0

WiFi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.0 Operating system: Windows 10 Home in S Mode

Windows 10 Home in S Mode Dimensions (inches): 10.95 x 8.10 x 0.62 inches

10.95 x 8.10 x 0.62 inches Weight: 2.45 pounds

2.45 pounds Chassis: Aluminum

Aluminum Colors: Ice Blue, Sandstone, Platinum

Microsofts offering the Surface Laptop Go in three different color schemesthe familiar Platinum and Sandstone, but also a new Ice Blue option. While youre probably familiar with the Sandstone and Platinum finishes, heres a look at the Ice Blue finish:

Microsoft Microsofts Surface Laptop Go, in Ice Blue

Surface Laptop Go: Available configurations

Microsoft is offering overlapping configurations of the Surface Laptop Go for consumers, education, and business. Microsofts education channel offers an additional model not shown here. All of these will go on sale October 13.

Core i5/4GB RAM/64GB SSD: $549 Consumer/Education

Core i5/8GB RAM/128GB SSD: $699 Consumer/Education, $799 Business

Core i5/8GB RAM/256GB SSD: $899 Consumer/Education, $999 Business

Core i5/16GB RAM/256GB SSD: $1,099 Education, $1,199 Business

The Surface for Business models offer Microsoft Advanced Exchange in supported marketsa $100 warranty service that includes expedited device replacement. Surface Laptop Go buyers can opt for a Surface Laptop Go for Business, which upgrades the OS to Windows 10 Pro.

While that $549 starting price is appealing, the basic Core i5/4GB RAM/64GB configuration should probably be passed over in favor of more powerful options. The $699 Core i5/8GB RAM/128GB SSD is acceptable, especially when paired with Microsofts OneDrive cloud storage.

Across all configurations, Microsoft says you can expect the familiar Surface keyboard, Windows Hello accessibility and strong battery life, albeit with a few compromises here and there.

The first of these is a return to Windows 10 in S Mode, which debuted with the original Surface Laptop. Microsoft ditched Windows 10 S in later Laptops, however, suggesting that it had moved away from the OS. Windows 10 in S Mode prohibits traditional Win32 apps for securitys sake. However, Microsoft also makes it easy to for you to switch from Windows 10 in S Mode to Windows 10 Home, and for free.

Microsoft Microsofts Surface Laptop Go fits somewhere in the niche between the Surface Go and the 13-inch Surface Laptop 3.

The second is the Surface Laptop Gos 12.45-inch display. Though it incorporates the familiar 3:2 ratio found in other Surfaces, it doesnt quite achieve 1080p resolution, at 15361024 (148 ppi). To be fair, thats about the pixels-per-inch (PPI) of a 15-inch 1080p display, though buyers may not realize that. In any event, well have to test it to see whether that resolution actually works within the smaller screen.

Microsofts other Surface devices are known for having high-quality, 1080p cameras, but the Surface Laptop Go steps down to 720pwhich, to be fair, is par for the course on many other rival laptops.

What we havent seen before on a Surface product is a fingerprint readerother Surface products have used depth cameras for authentication. Microsoft has mounted it on top of the Surface Laptop Gos power button. This approach has been effective for laptops weve seen from Huawei, such as its Matebook X Pro.

One interesting wrinkle is that the Core i5/4GB/64GB option does not include the fingerprint reader in the power button. Were not quite sure why, or whether Windows Hello is enabled on this configuration at all.

Microsoft Heres a key addition to the Surface Laptop Go lineup: a new fingerprint reader mounted underneath the power button, and set off with LED lighting. Shown here is the Platinum color option.

Surface Laptop Go design

The Surface Laptop Go design shows the give and take of creating an affordable laptop. Microsoft has returned to its metal finishes, apparently ditching the Alcantara fabric coating entirely. The smaller 12.4-inch PixelSense display may feel cramped for intensive work, but it certainly helps shave off costand it might not be seen as a major limitation if customers are working in more cramped conditions at home anyway.

We might have hoped for an 11th-gen Tiger Lake chip inside the Surface Laptop Go, though Intels 10th-gen chips are certainly fine. It actually puts the Surface Laptop Go inside the same family as the Surface Laptop 3 (Ice Lake), at least where components are concerned.

The Surface Laptop Gos port configuration appears very familiar, with a mix of USB-A and USB-C ports alongside the Surface Connector. Youll probably want to add a USB-C hub to your shopping list if youre thinking about an external monitorand you might be, given the Surface Laptop Gos smaller screen. Even the 10.5-inch Surface Go 2 provided a 19201280 display. Intels 10th-gen processors support a 1080p external monitor, though, so adding one shouldnt be an issue.

Microsoft Microsofts Surface Laptop Go in the Sandstone option.

Microsoft says the Surface Laptop Gos keyboard is equipped with a comfortable 1.3mm of key travel. Keyboards are a consistent strength for Microsofts Surface family, though earlier Surface Laptops included a more luxurious 1.5mm of key travel. (That tiny difference, believe it or not, is noticeable.) Underneath are Microsofts Omnisonic speakers. Theres also a pair of far-field mics for Microsoft Teams or Zoom calls.

Microsoft

A mystery that were waiting to examine: battery life. Microsoft claims the Surface Laptop Go will offer thirteen hours of battery life. Microsofts tests assume a rather dim 150 nits of light output, substantially less than what we use for testing. A nice plus is fast charging: Microsoft says you can charge your Surface Laptop Go to 80 percent in just over an hour.

Microsoft has flirted with a mass-market Surface before, but there have always been some tradeoffs. Microsofts first-generation Surface Laptop established the basicsa great display, keyboard and battery lifewithin a streamlined, minimalist design aimed at turning heads from Apples MacBooks on college campuses. But it also shipped with Windows 10 S inside, which may have turned off potential buyers. Microsofts Surface Laptop 2 was more of the same, while the powerful Surface Laptop 3 demanded a hefty $2,000 for the Intel Ice Lake option.

Meanwhile, Microsofts affordable Surface was its Surface Go lineup, a compact 10-inch tablet that cost $399 and saddled you with a somewhat anemic Pentium-class processor. Our $729 Surface Go 2 review unit suffered from the same limitationsand, unfortunately, charged an extra $130 for the keyboard.

The Surface Laptop Go fits somewhere in the middle. Will its performance follow suit? Well let you know when weve had a chance to test it.
MORRIS PLAINS, N.J., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- CherryRoad Technologies Inc., a leading integrator of public sector software and digital technology solutions and a member of Oracle PartnerNetwork (OPN) has announced today that Sonoma County, CA has successfully gone live and is thriving in Oracle Cloud Enterprise Performance Management (EPM).

As part of a modernization strategy, Sonoma County partnered with CherryRoad to implement and integrate their largest, to date, enterprise-wide application into the Cloud. Recognizing that flexibility and transparency in the planning and budgeting processes across the enterprise are key to the execution of next phase strategic business initiatives, Sonoma County successfully migrated their on-premise Hyperion application to Oracle Cloud EPM. Partnering with CherryRoad, the project took just 12 weeks and lays the foundation for Sonoma County to continue to automate complex processes and increase efficiency in their budget development process.

"We enjoy our strong partnership with Sonoma County. They are a long-term CherryRoad partner and we continue to appreciate the opportunity to work with their knowledgeable and professional staff. Oracle solutions create tremendous efficiencies that free up time, money, and infrastructure for the County so they can focus on providing better service to their citizens. We look forward to partnering with them on future phases and initiatives," said Tom Heldt, CherryRoad Executive Vice President.

"We are excited about implementing the Oracle Cloud EPM planning and budgeting solution," said Blane Jolliff, Sonoma County, Enterprise Financial System Manager. "It's imperative for us, as a local government, to implement solutions that are transparent, representative of best practices, and affordable. Because the Oracle Cloud EPM is scalable and highly customizable, it works for our organization and is really limited only by what we can imagine. Oracle Cloud EPM also represents an important transition from an on-premise system to the Cloud. We here in Sonoma County, unfortunately, know first-hand how important it is to have a robust and cost-effective disaster recovery plan. In addition to the improved set of tools offered by Oracle, we have already been able to ensure seamless continuity of business despite rolling power outages, several wildfire events and a global pandemic."

Erick Roeser, the Sonoma County Auditor-Controller-Treasurer-Tax Collector said, "Sonoma County strives for excellence in financial management and we are proud to work with CherryRoad. They are a leading Oracle implementer specializing in the public sector and the entire CherryRoad team is dedicated to our success."

About CherryRoad Technologies Inc.

At CherryRoad, our clients entrust us with the success of their IT solutions, whether we're delivering on-premise ERP, cloud-based application management, business intelligence, process optimization, change management consulting, or strategic staffing solutions. Throughout our 30-year history we've successfully partnered with hundreds of public sector and commercial clients to modernize, optimize and manage their back-office functions. Headquartered in Morris Plains, N.J. with offices across the U.S., we've earned a solid reputation for combining technology, organizational, functional, and vertical market expertise into practical solutions that deliver results  on-time and on-budget. For more information, visit www.cherryroad.com .

About Oracle PartnerNetwork

Oracle PartnerNetwork (OPN) is Oracle's partner program designed to enable partners to accelerate the transition to cloud and drive superior customer business outcomes. The OPN program allows partners to engage with Oracle through track(s) aligned to how they go to market: Cloud Build for partners that provide products or services built on or integrated with Oracle Cloud; Cloud Sell for partners that resell Oracle Cloud technology; Cloud Service for partners that implement, deploy and manage Oracle Cloud Services; and License & Hardware for partners that build, service or sell Oracle software licenses or hardware products. Customers can expedite their business objectives with OPN partners who have achieved Expertise in a product family or cloud service. To learn more visit: http://www.oracle.com/partnernetwork

Trademarks

Oracle and Java are registered trademarks of Oracle and/or its affiliates.

SOURCE CherryRoad Technologies Inc.

Related Links

http://www.cherryroad.com


After receiving trillions of euros of public money from the European Union (EU) supposedly to alleviate the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, French and European employers are restructuring the economy with mass layoffs and austerity plans.

Last week, the Total oil group announced the conversion of its Grandpuits refinery near Paris into a zero oil platform. That involves 150 job losses at Total itself, and the firing of 50 temp workers and 500 employees of Total subcontractors.

In mid September, the Bridgestone tire company said closing its factory in Bethune was the only option to safeguard the competitiveness of its operations in Europe. After having received millions of euros from the French state, supposedly to improve the Bethune factorys competitiveness, Bridgestone declared that the plant could not face competition from Chinese tires. The corporation refused any further investment that would allow the factory to make more high-quality tires.

According to well-known Paris labour lawyer Fiodor Rilov, there is simply a determination on the companys part to boost profitability. Bridgestone Groups operating profits were 4 billion in 2018 and 3 billion in 2019, more than Michelin and Goodyear.  Politicians last-minute intervention is hypocritical and cynical. Most of the laws that ordinarily would have avoided the dismantling of a factory like Bridgestone have been dismantled. This is the product of reforms introduced by Emmanuel Macron when he was the Economics minister.

After announcing the destruction of 15,000 jobs worldwide, global giant Airbus unveiled an adaptation plan for COVID-19 last week to the European works committee at Blagnac, near Toulouse. Airbus France presented a collective performance plan involving wage freezes and the destruction of fringe benefits (bonuses and accumulated time for holiday periods).

Using European bailout funds, the French state is leading a restructuring of the economy to massively destroy jobs and companies deemed uncompetitive. It pursues a violent class policy. Bailed out with trillions taken from the public purse, the financial aristocracy and top corporate executives aim to reduce millions of workers and small businesses to poverty.

Economy Minister Bruno Le Maire virtually boasted that companies will be obliged to reduce their staff. Consequently, we expect in the coming weeks and months a high number of layoffs and bankruptcies.

When you anticipate a 50 percent drop in your turnover, your options are limited, one economist told Europe1 radio. A government inter-ministerial delegation on industrial restructuring has recently received a large increase in its budget.

The offensive against social and democratic rights of workers launched in Europe after the Stalinist dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 is accelerating and deepening. Ten years after governments intervened to bail out the banks following the 2008 crash, mass layoffs and austerity are boosting profits by intensifying the exploitation of the working class.

After having virtually been halted by COVID-19, the world economy is undergoing a drastic restructuring process that had begun before the pandemic. Hunting for profits, companies respond to the shrinking of the world markets by working to destroy jobs. The worst-hit sectors are those connected to mobility (transport, especially airlines or maritime, and hotel businesses) and underlying sectors (heavy manufacturing and catering).

Already a few days after the end of lock-down, major European companies had announced tens of thousands of layoffs. Now, governments across Europe are preparing a wave of layoffs at the end of the year and beginning of 2021.

On September 11, Volkswagens truck construction subsidiary announced its intention to cut 9,500 jobs, a quarter of its global workforce, to save 1.8 billion. A decision is pending on the future of the factories at Steyr in Austria, at Plauen and Wittlich in Germany.

In Germany, plans to cut jobs in automobile construction are already launched. On September 9 the parts supplier Schaeffer announced the destruction of 4,400 jobs, while Continental is considering cutting 30,000 jobs worldwide, half of which are in Germany.

In Spain, hotel owners demonstrated in Madrid on September 9 calling for government aid. It is reported that 400,000 jobs have been sacrificed in this sector.

In France, many layoffs are planned, but the biggest have yet to be announced. According to a lawyer for the firm De Gaulle-Florence, Deborah David, Many companies are contacting us to know the procedures and what they could do to absorb the effects of the crisis. But mainly they seek information for later use.

The policy of mass layoffs and EU bank bailouts is the economic component of the criminal herd immunity policy of reopening of schools and return to work in non-essential industries employed by the European and international bourgeoisie amid the pandemic. These policies, which place millions of workers lives at risk, are supported by the trade unions.

The fight to defend jobs and social rights must have as its watchword the expropriation of the European bourgeoisie, made possible by the creation of action committees in the working class independent of the trade union bureaucracies, for the taking of power by workers and for building the United Socialist States of Europe.
MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center , MemorialCare Medical Group and MemorialCare Urgent Care Centers received Best Hospital, Best Medical Group and Best Urgent Care honors from both the Press-Telegram & Grunion Gazette Readers' Choice and Beachcomber Best of Long Beach readership competitions.

"We are proud of the tremendous achievements of our 16,000 extraordinary physicians, nurses and other clinicians, support staff, volunteers and donors throughout our 200 locations in Orange and Los Angeles counties," says Barry Arbuckle, Ph.D., President & CEO, MemorialCare.

This is the fourth year Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley ranked first and seventh year appearing among Orange County's top hospitals in the Register competition. Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills gained the top spot three times, ranking in the top two seven consecutive years. Long Beach Medical Center ranked first in the Beachcomber 17 consecutive years and multiple years in the Press-Telegram competitions. MemorialCare Medical Group ranked in the Register's top two since that particular category began and many top Press-Telegram and Beachcomber rankings.

"It is a great honor to be continually voted Best Medical Group and we are grateful to our patients for entrusting us with their healthcare," says Mark Schafer, M.D., CEO, MemorialCare Medical Foundation.

There are several more recent MemorialCare accolades.

Long Beach Medical Center has appeared on many "Best Hospitals" lists in numerous clinical categories, including this year's U.S. News & World Report America's Top 50 national Urology ratings and high-performance rankings for Cancer, Heart Bypass Surgery, Heart Failure ,Orthopedics, Geriatrics, Diabetes & Endocrinology, Colon Cancer Surgery, Neurology & Neurosurgery, Pulmonology & Lung Surgery, Gastroenterology & Gastrointestinal Surgery, Nephrology, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Hip Replacement and Knee Replacement. It is ranked among Los Angeles County's Top 5 Hospitals, California's Top 14, and listed among Newsweek's Top 100 U.S. Hospitals.

"These accolades demonstrate that we never lose sight of our patients' needs while consistently achieving high levels of excellence," says John Bishop, CEO, Long Beach Medical Center and Miller Children's & Women's Hospital Long Beach.

Orange Coast Medical Center, consistently voted by Register readers as Best Orange County Hospital, received many 2020 U.S. News & World Report "high-performance" rankings, including for Cancer, Orthopedics, Aortic Valve Surgery, Geriatrics, Gastroenterology & Gastrointestinal Surgery, Neurology & Neurosurgery, Pulmonology & Lung Surgery, Colon Cancer Surgery and Knee Replacement,. It ranked among the Top 10 hospitals in Los Angeles and Orange counties and Top 18 in California and has been named a Top Workplace by the Register.

Saddleback Medical Center received U.S. News & World Report "high-performance" rankings for Heart Failure, Orthopedics, Knee Replacement, Gastroenterology & Gastrointestinal Surgery, Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair and Urology. It has been named among America's 50 Best Hospitals, Top 50 U.S. Cardiovascular Hospital, Orange County's Best Hospitals, Top Workplaces by the Register and among the first U.S. hospitals earning both Thrombectomy-Capable Stroke Center Certification and Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation.

"We are thrilled to be repeatedly recognized for exceptional, compassionate care that makes a difference in the lives of those who live and work in our communities," says Marcia Manker, CEO, Orange Coast Medical Center and Saddleback Medical Center.

Miller Children's & Women's Hospital ranks in U.S. News & World Report's America's Best Children's Hospitals for Pulmonary & Lung Surgery and is among a few in the U.S. with The Joint Commission Disease Specific Certification in Pediatric Asthma. It is recognized among the safest places to have a baby; largest, most highly rated neonatal and pediatric intensive care units; and for significant advances in pediatric cancer care, cardiology, orthopedics, sickle cell anemia and cystic fibrosis. Together, Long Beach Medical Center & Miller Children's & Women's Hospital are among the West's two largest hospital campuses.

Among California's top medical groups with 2,000 affiliated Southland physicians, MemorialCare Medical Group and Greater Newport Physicians continually earn America's Physician Groups Elite Status and Integrated Healthcare Association Excellence in Healthcare Award, highest honors for physician groups.

MemorialCarenational leader and innovator in value-based carealso includes numerous convenient, community-based ambulatory surgery, imaging, dialysis, physical therapy, breast health, urgent care and health centers. Its additional accolades include Nation's Best Health Systems, 10 Largest Children's Hospitals, Best Places to Work and Magnet Nursing Excellence honors. Visit www.memorialcare.org and www.facebook.com/MemorialCareHealthSystem.

SOURCE MemorialCare

Related Links

http://www.memorialcare.org


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A former Cambridge University student has become the first ever female master of 500-year-old St John's College.

Heather Hancock was admitted as the new Master in a special socially distanced ceremony at the College's Victorian Chapel today.

She is the first woman to take up the role since the founding of the college in 1511 and was admitted in front of 30 Fellows wearing masks.

Heather Hancock (pictured) was admitted as the new Master in a special socially distanced ceremony at the College's Victorian Chapel today

Ms Hancock succeeds Professor Sir Christopher Dobson, who died in September 2019 after 12 years as Master, to become 45th Master of St John's.

She was chair of the Food Standards Agency, a non-ministerial Government department that regulates the food and feed industry.

Before that she spent 11 years at Deloitte, where she was a managing partner for the UK and Swiss firms.

St John's College (pictured) was founded in 1511 and is one of the largest Colleges of the University of Cambridge

She succeeds Professor Sir Christopher Dobson, who died in September 2019 after 12 years as Master, to become 45th Master of St John's

She also led the firm's global services to the London 2012 and Paralympic Games.

St John's College was founded in 1511 and is one of the largest Colleges of the University of Cambridge.

Its former students include Nobel Prize winners, Prime Ministers, scientists, artists, and leaders in business and industry.

Today St John's has more than 150 Fellows, about 900 students, and 250 members of staff.

Ms Hancock, who studied Land Economy at St John's, said: 'I am deeply honoured to have been elected as the next Master of St John's College'

The Master provides overall leadership of the community of students, staff and Fellows.

Ms Hancock, who studied Land Economy at St John's, said: 'I am deeply honoured to have been elected as the next Master of St John's College.

'I arrived at St John's as an undergraduate from a northern comprehensive, the first in my family to go to university, and the first pupil from my school in Colne to reach Oxbridge.

Ms Hancock was admitted as the new Master in a special socially distanced ceremony at the College's Victorian Chapel today

'I know from personal experience the life-changing impact that St John's can deliver.

'I'm looking forward to sustaining the College's global renown for scholarship and excellence, and to championing its pioneering work on access - such as the St John's Studentships offered to students from lower- and middle-income households.'

Professor Deborah Howard, who chaired the College committee which led the search for the new Master, said: 'We are delighted to announce the election of Heather Hancock as the next Master of St John's College.

'She is a highly distinguished leader who will build on the College's international reputation as a supportive, inclusive, and ambitious academic community.'
Under the change to the protocols that are jointly developed and overseen by the league and the NFL Players Association, the handful of unvaccinated players assigned to the eight remaining playoff teams will now will be tested only when they have symptoms, as with vaccinated players and team staffers.
Activist was granted



bail on Thursday by a special court here in one of the two cases being probed by the NIA in connection with his alleged role in the violent protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act in last year.

Gogoi was granted bail after five days of hearing in the case, which was filed at the Chabua police station and later transferred to the NIA.

NIA special judge Pranjal Das granted bail to Gogoi on a surety of Rs 30,000 and routine conditions, including not tampering with evidence and influencing witnesses.

The special court on August 7 had rejected his bail plea in the other case, which was registered at Chandmari police station. He then filed a petition challenging it in the Gauhati High Court, which admitted the matter on September 28 and fixed October 13 as the next date of hearing.

Advocate Santanu Borthakur appeared for Gogoi while SC Kayal represented NIA as its standing counsel.

Gogoi, the leader of the Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS), was arrested on December 12 last year from Jorhat, during the height of the anti-CAA protests in the state, as a "preventive measure" in view of the deteriorating law and order situation and his three associates were taken into custody the next day.

They were later handed over to the NIA and booked under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for their alleged role in the violent protest and possible links with Maoists.

While in custody, they were also arrested in a number of old cases registered across different police stations in the state but they have got bail in most of these cases.

His three associates -- Dhaijya Konwar, Bittu Sonowal and Manash Konwar -- are now out on bail in the NIA case.

Gogoi was granted bail on July 16 by the Gauhati High Court in the three cases filed by the Police related to the burning of a post office, circle office and a branch of United Bank of India at Chabua in Dibrugarh district during anti-CAA protests.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
State health officials confirmed another 708 coronavirus cases  its highest single-day count in months  bringing the number of cases to 130,461.

Officials also announced another 23 COVID deaths in what continues to be an uptick in virus activity across much of the state. There have now been 9,265 COVID-related deaths since the beginning of the pandemic.

There are 436 people hospitalized with COVID-19, including 84 patients in intensive care, according to Thursdays statistics.

The seven-day average of positive tests is now at 1.1%; the three-day average of COVID deaths, the three-day average of hospitalizations and the number of hospitals using surge capacity continue to climb as well.

Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker on Thursday reiterated that officials' biggest concern is large informal gatherings where people are ignoring health protocols. Infections are more likely to spread at those gatherings, instead of the workplace, he said during a press conference on Thursday.

Because people at work are relying on, and abiding by," the state rules and regulations, Baker said.

There are now 23 Massachusetts communities considered at high risk for coronavirus spread, according to the latest COVID risk assessment map published Wednesday.

Communities now in the red category, which have had more than 8 new daily cases per 100,000 residents over the last 14 days, include Attleboro, Avon, Boston, Chelsea, Dracut, Everett, Framingham, Haverhill, Holliston, Lawrence, Lowell, Lynn, Lynnfield, Marlborough, Methuen, Middleton, Nantucket, New Bedford, North Andover, Revere, Springfield, Winthrop and Worcester, according to DPH.

Notably, Boston and Springfield were upgraded from moderate to high risk this week.

A total of 29 communities cannot enter Step 2 of Phase 3 of Gov. Charlie Bakers reopening plan. Those communities are: Attleboro, Avon, Boston, Chelsea, Dedham, Dracut, Everett, Framingham, Haverhill, Holliston, Lawrence, Lowell, Lynn, Lynnfield, Marlborough, Methuen, Middleton, Monson, Nantucket, New Bedford, North Andover, Plainville, Revere, Saugus, Springfield, Tyngsborough, Winthrop, Worcester, and Wrentham.

On Tuesday, Baker announced that beginning Oct. 5 communities with a gray, green or yellow risk level can begin the second part of the third phase, meaning they can move up to 50% capacity or 250 people at indoor and outdoor performance venues.

The state will also allow these cities and towns up to 50% capacity for arcades and recreational businesses with trampolines, obstacle courses, roller rinks and laser tag, as well as gyms, museums, libraries, driving schools and flight academies.

Here are the number of coronavirus cases in each Massachusetts county:

Barnstable County: 1,799

Berkshire County: 716

Bristol County: 10,161

Dukes County: 64

Essex County: 20,156

Franklin County: 412

Hampden County: 8,339

Hampshire County: 1,273

Middlesex County: 27,779

Nantucket County: 115

Norfolk County: 10,384

Plymouth County: 9,807

Suffolk County: 24,622

Worcester County: 14,528

Unknown location: 306

Related Content:
In a Bay Area dining world still adjusting to the coronavirus pandemic, San Francisco restaurants resumed indoor service on Wednesday with temperature checks, strict mask enforcement policies and multi-question health surveys.

The moment is a small step toward normalcy for restaurants in the city, where thousands of food businesses have struggled to survive during the pandemic without their dining rooms. Now that its back as an option after the city reached the orange tier in the states COVID-19 response blueprint, local restaurant owners are feeling cautiously optimistic about the industrys future for the first time in months. They also know that for indoor dining to last, patrons have to follow, and not fight against, the new safety guidelines.

Its much like sitting in the exit row of an airplane. Youre going to have to agree to some things when it comes to everyones safety, said Laurie Thomas, executive director of the Golden Gate Restaurant Association.

Among the key takeaways of the newly expanded orders from the San Francisco Department of Public Health are restaurant capacity restrictions at 25% or 100 people, whichever is fewer, and two-hour time limits on indoor meals. Also, upon entry, diners have to be verbally screened with questions about possible coronavirus exposure and COVID-19 symptoms.

Face masks have to be worn by diners at all times when not eating or drinking. This has been a problem for some restaurants in the city that have been conducting outdoor service, leading a few chefs and owners to begrudgingly describe themselves as mask police. Meanwhile, servers, bussers and other restaurant employees are directed not to approach a table until all of the people seated are properly using their masks.

Michael Short / Special to The Chronicle

For restaurant owners, its a chance to show guests how far were going to put peoples safety first, said John Konstin, owner of the century-old downtown restaurant Johns Grill, which resumed indoor service on Wednesday. More important, its a chance to show the city that we can do this. But we all have to work together on it.

The reason indoor dining is back in the city is because San Francisco moved into the orange tier on Tuesday, which is the states second-least restrictive tier in its four-color health rating system. While San Francisco was allowed to offer indoor dining previously in the more-restrictive red tier, city officials took a slower approach to reopening by following local health indicators instead of the states. Counties can choose to be more restrictive than state guidelines. Indoor dining is now available in most parts of the Bay Area. Alameda and Santa Clara, in the red tier, have not sanctioned it locally, while Sonoma, in the most-restrictive purple tier, cannot allow it.

Samir Mogannam, owner of San Franciscos popular Arabic comfort food outfit Beit Rima, made indoor dining available at his two restaurants in the city on Wednesday. Before the pandemic, Beit Rimas dining rooms would often be filled with people crammed shoulder to shoulder. Mogannam said even the allowed 25% will be more than what his restaurant will use, just so the locations can ease into the indoor service process.

At Beit Rimas Church Street location, this means roughly five to 10 diners are going to be allowed inside at one time.

We know everyone has different comfort levels and sensitivities, he said. We just want to give that opportunity to feel normal again to people, to dine inside and start heading in that right direction where were doing better as a city.

As much as San Francisco restaurants were able to capitalize on outdoor dining, the experience for customers never mirrored what was available before the pandemic, Konstin said. Johns Grill, for example, is a place known for its history of celebrity customers, and many of their pictures hang on the dining rooms walls.

The space is filled with wood and leather surfaces, white tablecloths and old-school vibes. When it pivoted to an outdoor venture over the summer, Johns Grill became more casual, with a more compact menu and decorative palm trees.

Konstin said restaurants like his in San Francisco are going to benefit from being able to remind diners about what, aesthetically, made their address special.

Food Guide Top 25 Restaurants Where to eat in the Bay Area. Find spots near you, create a dining wishlist, and more.

When people would come in with their masks on from dining outside so they could use the bathroom, we had to make sure they didnt stop to look around, he said. That let me know people are just ready for that chance of normalcy. I think theres going to be a lot of people who come out to experience that.

Not every restaurant in San Francisco is rushing to welcome people inside. Some are taking a slower approach. Pete Sittnick, managing partner of Waterbar restaurant, said it has benefited from a bustling business outdoor lunch crowd during the pandemic and would take an extra day or so before allowing indoor service to address how to comply with regulations from the city.

Were probably going to open with 20% capacity inside to see what the demand is and to see how we handle it internally, he said. Im going to be interested to see how the public reacts to (indoor dining), too.

The role of the public in San Franciscos pandemic dining landscape is more important than ever, especially when the new indoor dining option is giving businesses a bit of hope when they need it most, said Thomas.

If these rules are too much of a disturbance with how a person has dinner, then they should order takeout and eat at home, Thomas said. This is an incremental but important chance (for restaurants) to survive until they get federal funding.

Justin Phillips is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jphillips@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @JustMrPhillips
The food boxes  each weighing 35 pounds and typically containing produce, dairy products, and meats  were developed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture at the start of the pandemic, to help the increasing number of Americans in need. It does not appear that President Donald Trumps letter, pictured here, became part of the shipments until recently. Read more

Along with apples and precooked pork, hunger fighters across America who distribute boxes of food from the federal government to those in need are discovering something unexpected inside each one: a letter from President Donald Trump.

The letter, signed by the president, says, I prioritized sending nutritious food from our farmers to our families in need throughout America.

The so-called Coronavirus Food Assistance Program emergency food boxes are part of an effort to dispense food to help those hurt by the pandemic. They are also referred to as Farmers to Families Food Boxes.

Food bank leaders are blasting Trump, saying he is politicizing hunger. At Philabundance, one of the two main hunger-relief agencies in the Philadelphia region, the letter is being pulled from boxes before they reach recipients.

In its place, we are offering information about voter registration or other services that might be useful for our clients," said Loree Jones, CEO of Philabundance.

Calling the letter absolutely outrageous, Joel Berg, CEO of Hunger Free America, headquartered in New York City, said: "It essentially blackmails nonpartisan food charities into aiding Trumps reelection campaign by threatening more Americans to go hungry if these food boxes are not distributed.

"This move by the Trump administration is illegal and immoral.

Sociologist Joan Maya Mazelis of Rutgers University-Camden said she was shocked by the letter, which flies in the face of Trump administration policy. The president tried on three occasions to cut food stamps, and declined to sign a proposed 15% increase in food stamps  now known as SNAP, for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program  due to the coronavirus.

People might think the president is for expanding their access to food as opposed to decreasing it, and that strikes me as particularly dishonest, Mazelis said. And it doesnt help people who are really suffering.

Food need in the region and across America is estimated to have increased 60% since the pandemic hit, experts say.

The boxes  each weighing 35 pounds and typically containing produce, dairy products, and meats  were developed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture at the start of the pandemic, when Americans overwhelmingly purchased shelf-stable goods, and restaurants were forced to close. That left farmers with fresh food languishing in their fields and silos.

The government was then able to aid farmers by buying their yields and sharing them with those in need, paying out around $3 billion, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. The first deliveries of boxes were in May.

It does not appear that Trumps letter became part of the shipments until recently, anti-hunger advocates said.

In North Philadelphia on Thursday, Thelma Kennerly, who provides meals to those in need at Devereux Methodist Church, accused Trump of playing politics with people suffering from hunger.

Its a political move," she added. "Im sorry. I dont believe hes for the small man.

In his letter, Trump said that safeguarding the health and well-being of our citizens is one of my highest priorities. He added that his administration has delivered 50 million boxes across America in the last month.

Trump also suggested recipients wash their hands, practice social distancing, and consider wearing a face covering when in public.

Many people around Philadelphia began discovering the letter last weekend, according to Tracey Specter, chair of the board of directors of Share Food Program, the largest hunger-relief agency in the region. Specter is the daughter-in-law of the late Pennsylvania Sen. Arlen Specter, who switched between the Democratic and Republican Parties in his career.

They were calling in angry from all over the counties, said Specter, a Republican who is supporting Joe Biden for president. And it was pretty rotten that Share was put in the uncomfortable position of giving out food to a vulnerable population in a very politicized situation.

Share distributes 42,000 pounds of food a week in CFAP boxes, said George Matysik, Shares executive director. Philabundance reported that it gave out nearly 580,000 pounds of CFAP boxes between May 18 and Sept. 28.

That the boxes contain messages from the president is worrying for Temple University sociologist Judith Levine.

My biggest concern is now that the letters are required to be in the boxes, some groups might refuse to accept the boxes, she said. It may force some food banks to reject the boxes, and aid that would have gotten into needy peoples hands would be lost.

Levine, whos the director of Temples Public Policy Lab, added that the fact that the letter is now in the boxes while people are starting to vote for president seems like its related to the election.

She said that she has not seen reports anywhere that say anyone thinks the letter is a good idea.

Some observers said the boxed letter reminds people of Trumps move in April to have his name printed on the economic stimulus checks sent out across the country.

In Congress, Democratic legislators are accusing the administration of violating the Hatch Act by sending out the letter. Its main provision prohibits civil-service employees in the executive branch of the federal government, except the president and vice president, from electioneering. Legislators are suggesting that the USDA may be in violation of the rule.

Kathy Fisher, policy director of the Greater Philadelphia Coalition Against Hunger, said Thursday that the Trump letter implies that the president gifted the nation with the food boxes, when it came from work done by both sides of the aisle in Congress as part of the CARES Act to help Americans suffering because of COVID-19.

Hunger affects people no matter what party youre in, and, certainly now with the pandemic, hunger is in every zip code, Fisher said.

In the past, food aid had not been as politicized as it is now. Its become ridiculous.
"The USIP Board of Directors is pleased that Lise Grande will lead USIP during this period of significant global change," said USIP Board Chair and former National Security Advisor Stephen J. Hadley. "USIP has never been stronger as an institution, and its mission has never been more critical. We are confident that Lise's experience and leadership will help the Institute rise to the many challenges that lie ahead."

Grande is currently the head of UN humanitarian and development operations in Yemen, where she coordinates one of the UN's largest operations globally.

Grande has 25 years of continuous overseas experience leading, managing, and coordinating large-scale, complex operations for the United Nations. She has held leadership positions in humanitarian, stabilization, peacekeeping, peacebuilding, and development operations in Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and the Caucasus.

"I'm honored to join the extraordinary team at the U.S. Institute of Peace," said Grande. "USIP is one of the world's preeminent institutions dedicated to peace. I've long admired USIP's work and the essential role it plays in preventing conflict and building peace in the world's most volatile regions. I'm proud to join an organization known for making a tangible difference."

In its search for a new president and CEO, the Board identified expertise in peacemaking, peacebuilding, conflict management, and conflict resolution as well as extensive field work internationally as the top two qualifications desired in a candidate. Other important qualifications included experience leading a complex organization; a deep and demonstrated commitment to the values and mission of USIP, including a demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusion; exceptional communications skills; and strategic thinking.

"Lise Grande fully embodies the qualifications we set out to find in the next president and CEO of USIP," said USIP Board Vice Chair Ambassador George Moose. "She brings a wealth of on-the-ground field experience in conflict zones, a deep knowledge of the peacebuilding field, and a proven record as a leader."

Prior to her assignment in Yemen, Grande was responsible for the UN's humanitarian, stabilization, and development operations while serving as deputy head of the UN's political mission in Iraq during the campaign against ISIS. She was instrumental in facilitating one of the largest managed evacuations of civilians from a war zone in recent history and led the UN team that helped stabilize more than 20 cities liberated from ISIS control.

"Lise Grande's fierce determination, pragmatic and far-sighted vision, and hands-on leadership got literally millions of internally displaced Iraqis home in record time after their cities and villages were liberated from ISIS," said Ambassador Jonathan Cohen, U.S. ambassador to the Arab Republic of Egypt and former deputy chief of mission at the U.S. Embassy in Iraq. "As an American working for the UN, she has reflected great credit on the U.S."

Grande was also responsible for the UN's humanitarian and development work in South Sudan in the lead-up to independence and during the first year of statehood. She has headed UN operations in India and Armenia and served in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Angola, Tajikistan, Sudan, and Haiti.

"Lise Grande has devoted most of her life to supporting people living in countries wracked by conflict," said the Right Honorable Helen Clark, former prime minister of New Zealand and former administrator of the United Nations Development Programme. "I can think of no better person to be appointed as CEO at the U.S. Institute of Peace."

Grande is a skilled, compassionate leader known for her commitment to the mission and the ability to get things done. Importantly, Lise has successfully managed large organizations with ethnically, racially, nationally, and religiously diverse staffs.

"I've had the privilege of working with both USIP and Lise Grande over many years. I can't think of a more inspired leadership choice," said Brett McGurk, former special presidential envoy for the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS. "Lise is a rare talent: courageous, innovative, and dedicated to making the world a better place. This is a perfect match."

Grande will assume the position of president and CEO later this fall upon her departure from UN service. USIP Chief Financial Officer Joe Lataille will continue to serve as acting president in the interim. Grande succeeds Nancy Lindborg, who completed her tenure at USIP in August.

"Lise Grande's frontline experience in tough, complex conflicts makes her a terrific choice to lead USIP," said former USIP President and CEO Nancy Lindborg. "Importantly, she understands that intersection of humanitarian, development, security, and political issues that come together at USIP."

Grande has an undergraduate degree from Stanford University and a master's from the New School for Social Research.

For more information on USIP, visit www.usip.org/about

SOURCE United States Institute of Peace

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The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for the Ablekuma West Constituency, Mrs. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful has charged the Constituency Executives and NPP faithfuls in the Garu Constituency to do all they can to ensure that the NPP wins the parliamentary seat in the Garu Constituency during the upcoming December elections.



Speaking at the mammoth gathering of party faithfuls in Garu in the Upper East Region, she urged them to remain steadfast and resolute in aim of becoming victorious at the end of the 2020 polls.



According to her, unity of purpose is required to clinch the beckoning political victory in the upcoming general election, adding that the leaders and members of the Party in the Constituency should not allow any form of division among themselves.



We have an enviable track record which is clear to all Ghanaians; it is not a matter of engaging in unnecessary argument. Let's trumpet the achievements and good deeds of this government, she said.



She assured them of the party's and her support to ensure they have enough resources and logistics to cushion them to work extraordinarily for the party.



She said instead of causing divisions, party members in the constituency must make efforts to bring the citizenry to hold hands in the true spirit of brotherhood as envisioned by the parliamentary candidate, Mr. Musah Osman for the good of all.



The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for the Ablekuma West constituency arrived in the constituency on Monday to a rousing welcome by the Regional Women's Wing, supporters and sympathizers on her four (4) day visit.



Whilst in the Upper East Region, Mrs. Owusu Ekuful will visit the Tempane, Bawku Central, Zebilla, Pusiga, Binduri, and Navrongo Central Constituencies.

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.

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Republican lawmakers controlling the state legislature in Pennsylvania have voted to create an 'election integrity' committee  which Democrats are warning could be used to subvert the popular vote and send a slate of Donald Trump electors in the case of disputed results.

The move follows repeated complaints by the president about mail-in ballots and an unusual move by the Justice Department to announce an investigation over nine discarded ballots that were uncovered.

The 5-person committee would have a Republican majority. It could subpoena witnesses and documents, can initiate legal filings and can get to work before the November 3 election, which Trump on Tuesday once again said would be filled with fraud.

Pennsylvania House Minority Leader Frank Dermody, D-Allegheny, speaks Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2015, at the state Capitol in Harrisburg, Pa. He has raised alarms about a new GOP-run 'election integrity' committee

House Democratic Minority Leader Frank Dermody of Allegheny warned in a statement: 'To put it simply this is a dangerous threat to our democracy.'

The resolution passing the committee came on a party-line vote, and state Democrats are already claiming it could be part of a plot to overturn the will of the voters, in a state where Joe Biden is leading in the polls that was key to Donald Trump's 2016 victory.

This is an unprecedented attack on non-partisan election administrators at a time when we should all be doing everything we can to instill confidence in our elections,' said Gov. Tom Wolfe in a statement.

Another lawmaker, State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, told the Huffington Post: 'The reality is, bad things are happening in this committee. This is a bad bill that never should have been brought up.

Dermody, the minority leader, fumed to the publication that the resolution 'came out of nowhere. My guess is they wanted to have a companion operation going along with their plan to try and fix the Electoral College.'

The legislation creating the committee is titled: 'A Resolution establishing the Select Committee on Election Integrity to investigate, review and make recommendations concerning the regulation and conduct of the 2020 general election.'

Pennsylvania State Rep. Garth Everett, a Republican, introduced the resolution and defended the new committee

President Trump has repeatedly attacked mail-in voting

But Democrats are warning it could have a more pernicious role: pushing to have the legislature, by party vote, declare the results invalid and instead send a slate of Republican electors to Washington for the meeting of the Electoral College.

A story in the latest issue of the Atlantic by Barton Gellman reports three state GOP legislators have discussed the direct appointment of electors  with one source telling the writer he had discussed it with the Trump presidential campaign.

'Ive mentioned it to them, and I hope theyre thinking about it too, state GOP chair Lawrence Tabas, said.

I just dont think this is the right time for me to be discussing those strategies and approaches, but [direct appointment of electors] is one of the options. It is one of the available legal options set forth in the Constitution.

White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany brought up a group of ballots discovered in Pennsylvania as she attacked mail-in voting

He said all parties prefer a count that is swift and accurate. 'If the process, though, is flawed, and has significant flaws, our public may lose faith and confidencein the integrity of the election, he said.

Republicans are denying any nefarious plan. 'The only thing it has the power to do is ... oversight and investigation, Rep. Garth Everett, who introduced the resolution for the committee, told the Philadelphia Enquirer. It cant make up rules, it cant pass laws, it cant do anything. Only [the legislature] can do that,' he said.

The move comes as Trump and the White House House continue to attack mail-in voting, which will play a key role in Pennsylvania and other states.

Election experts are already warning about looming challenges after a ruling on 'naked ballots'  those without a special second envelope in the state that could get tossed.

White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany brought up a batch of ballots discovered in a trash can that were a source of controversy, as well as an initial DOJ press release that had to be corrected.

'This is what is happening here. You are ignoring the problem here. Last week in Pennsylvania you had ballots found in a ditch. That's a fact. In Wisconsin seven military ballots marked for Trump were found cast aside,' she said. She was intending to refer to the military ballots discovered in a wastebasket in Pennsylvania.

McEnany, like Trump, votes absentee in Florida, but distinguishes that from mass mail-in voting.

Trump complained at Tuesday's debate: 'They found ballots in a wastepaper basket three days ago, and they all had the name  military ballots, they were military  they all had the name Trump on them. In fact, only seven over the ballots were made out for Trump (two were resealed), and there are indications that a contract worker may have made a mistake. An FBI investigation is ongoing.

'In Philadelphia, they went in to watch. They were called poll watchers  a very safe, very nice thing. They were thrown out. They werent allowed to watch. You know why? Cause bad things happen in Philadelphia, bad things,' Trump said. The Enquirer wrote afterwards that the Trump campaing has no approved poll watchers in Philadelphia right now, and there are no polling places currently open.
ALMATY, Kazakhstan -- A court in Kazakhstan's largest city, Almaty, has upheld the prison sentence of well-known civil rights activist Sanavar Zakirova, who says the case against her was politically motivated.

The Almaty city court on October 1 rejected Zakirova's appeal and ruled that a lower court decision to sentence the activist to one year in prison was valid.

Zakirova, who is well known for her political and civil rights activities, was sentenced in mid-July after the Medeu district court in Almaty found her guilty of assaulting the daughter of a woman who had shouted vulgarities at a rally in March.

Zakirova has insisted that all of the accusations against her are groundless and politically motivated.

Subscribe To RFE/RL's Watchdog Newsletter RFE/RL's Watchdog report is a curated digest of human rights, media freedom, and democracy developments from our vast broadcast region. It arrives in your in-box every Thursday. Subscribe here.

Her relatives and lawyers have said that the administration of the detention center in Almaty where she is being held has imposed physical and moral pressure on her using other inmates.

Zakirova was an initiator of, and leading participant in, rallies in Almaty and Nur-Sultan last year by residents of Kazakhstan's different regions, demanding action on what they called "wrong court decisions" in various cases.

In March 2019, Almaty city authorities denied Zakirova permission to hold a congress to establish a new political party, Our Right.

In November 2019, Zakirova and two other activists were found guilty by a court in Almaty of distributing false information about the ruling Nur-Otan party over the Internet.

They were ordered to pay the equivalent of $15,000 to the party. Zakirova and her supporters said then that the case was politically motivated.

Days later, Zakirova and three other female activists mocked Nur-Otan by staging a public action -- asking worshippers outside a mosque in Nur-Sultan for money to help pay a fine to the ruling party.

Police detained the women then and fined them the equivalent of $32 each for causing a public nuisance.

Last month, Kazakhstans human rights organizations recognized Zakirova as a political prisoner.
Atheist group files brief supporting Christian student's right to evangelize on campus

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An atheist group has filed a brief in support of a lawsuit against a Georgia college that punished a Christian student for preaching outside of a limited free speech zone on campus.

The American Humanist Association filed an amicus brief on Tuesday in the case of Uzuegbunam v. Preczewski, which will be argued before the United States Supreme Court.

The Alliance Defending Freedom, a conservative law firm, filed suit against George Gwinnett College for its treatment of Christian student Chike Uzuegbunam.

Although the school has changed their policy on free speech and expression since stopping Uzuegbunam from preaching, they have refused to accept any penalty for their past actions.

In their amicus brief, the AHA noted that while they and the ADF fall on opposite sides of the political spectrum, they believe that Gwinnett owes damages for their past policy.

On the chopping block is a time-honored remedy essential to vindicating the most important rights in our country. Religious freedomthe cornerstone of our democracycould become an empty promise without nominal damages, read the summary of the AHA brief.

Religion Clause violations rarely produce actual damages and often stem from easily-mootable laws. Taking away from citizens the only remedy available in many such cases jeopardizes the rule of law itself.

AHA Executive Director Roy Speckhardt said in a statement released Tuesday that he believes people must be given every chance to preserve their First Amendment rights.

While the AHA and ADF may approach the Constitution from different angles, at the very least we agree that First Amendment litigation and the associated rights are essential to our democracy, he stated.

In July 2016, while a student at Gwinnett, school officials stopped Uzuegbunam on multiple occasions from distributing Christian literature at an outdoor plaza space on campus.

According to official school policy at the time, Uzuegbunam could only distribute literature or speak about his beliefs at two predetermined free speech zones on campus.

In response, ADF filed a legal action on behalf of Uzuegbunam and another student named Joseph Bradford against the college, accusing them of violating their rights.

In 2017, Gwinnett amended their policies regarding speech and expression, arguing that the complaint against them by Uzuegbunam and Bradford had become moot.

A district court ruled in favor of Gwinnett on the claim that the complaint was moot and a three-judge panel of the Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit upheld its ruling last year.

In a Per Curiam decision released in July of last year, the panel concluded that the students complaint did not include a well-pled request for compensatory damages, in part because it failed to allege any concrete injuries arising from the allegedly unconstitutional conduct of the GGC officials.

ADF opted to appeal the panel decision and in July, the Supreme Court agreed to hear oral arguments in the case.
As a piano tuner, Verne Edquist spent his career tweaking the infinitely complicated mechanical actions under the lids of pianos in Toronto, pricking hammers with needles to give the sound different characteristics and adjusting tiny parts with names most pianists do not know  wippens, agraffes, knuckles and backchecks.

He prepared the pianos for well-known musicians, among them Gina Bachauer, Victor Borge, Duke Ellington, Arthur Rubinstein, Andras Schiff, Rudolf Serkin and Liberace. But he was chiefly known as the personal tuner for the famously eccentric virtuoso Glenn Gould, whose pianos Mr. Edquist nurtured from the 1960s to the early 80s, making exacting adjustments that shaped the sounds heard on Goulds recordings.

Mr. Edquist died on Aug. 27 in Toronto at 89. His son Carl said the cause was kidney failure.

Tuning pianos is a subtle art, but there was nothing subtle about how Mr. Edquist became Goulds tuner. The first time they encountered each other, he flatly refused to work on Goulds piano.

It was a Chickering, an 1895 grand whose featherweight action set the standard for pianos in Goulds mind. Leonard Bernstein said, after stopping in to see Gould when the New York Philharmonic toured Canada in the 1960s, that it sounded rather like a fortepiano, or as much like a harpsichord as possible.
ANCHORAGE

From the moment Gov. Mike Dunleavy, a Republican, was made aware of the threat of COVID-19, he acted faster than most other states and the federal government. In an interview, I asked him why he moved so quickly when others did not?

We got a call from the (U.S.) State Department in January asking for assistance with a charter (plane) that was coming out of Wuhan with State Department officials. We are the entry point for North America from Asia. ... If you are going to evacuate U.S. State Department officials and their families from China because of the virus, there is something to it. We immediately set up our disaster team ... and we started to prepare at that point for some type of epidemic or pandemic.

The government also instituted a testing requirement that travelers to Alaska must have tested negative for the virus at least 72 hours before their arrival into the state. Health care professionals are at the airport to either confirm one has had a test or sell you a kit for $250 and require self-quarantine until results are confirmed.

As a result, Alaska is one of eight states with the lowest number of COVID cases and deaths in the country.

I ask why other states  and the Trump administration, as Democrats charge  did not respond as he has. I really dont know the answer to that. Part of what benefited us is that we are isolated. We have Canada as our only land neighbor. We dont have a lot of through traffic. ... You have to make a special effort to get here. We have the highest percent of Native Americans  15 percent of our population. And many died (in the 1918 Spanish flu) pandemic. We didnt want to repeat that.

His thoughts on the presidential campaign? I obviously support the president because of what he does ... bringing back jobs to the United States. I think the president was very astute in that he recognized early on that we were ceding our sovereignty to foreign actors, such as China. An example is when this virus broke out, we had to look to China for some of our personal protective equipment, potential testing and so forth. That puts you at a disadvantage. He saw this early on.

What about the looting and rioting in some cities? I dont think youre going to see that tolerated the next four years if Trump is in office. People want security. They want economic security and they want security with regard to our foreign policy. We havent entered into a war with this president. Hes finished wars. Hes (been nominated by two people for the) Nobel Peace Prize. The press doesnt want to talk about that, generally speaking. If the question is do I think the presidents policies are good for America, I do. I really do.

What would a Joe Biden presidency and the Green New Deal do to the Alaska economy?

I think it would be radically altered for the worse. ... We were purchased from Russia for two reasons: one was our resources, one was our geo-political location. Oil, coal would take a hit. Gas would most likely take a hit. We depend on oil more than any other state. It would be devastating.

Does he see Biden as a Trojan horse for socialist policies, as some Republicans have charged?

There may be some truth in that. That certainly is the emerging wing and probably in my estimation will become the Democratic Party pretty quick, the Democratic socialism wing. I think what you would see with candidate Biden, if he were to win ... that would be the last vestige of the Democratic Party, which has changed radically. My parents were FDR Democrats and would not recognize (todays Democratic Party).

Prediction on the race? I am hopeful, and I have confidence Trump will win.

Readers may email Cal Thomas at tcaeditors@tribpub.com.
Wednesdays day-long appearance by former FBI Director James Comey before the Senate Judiciary Committee was the latest round in the ongoing political warfare in Washington, as Democratic and Republican members of the committee traded accusations of manipulating investigations and doing the bidding of Russia.

Both the posturing of the senators and the stonewalling by Comey, appearing on a video link from his living room, seemed incongruous in the context of the mounting political crisis in the United States.

Former FBI director James Comey is sworn via videoconference before testifying during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2020, to examine the FBI "Crossfire Hurricane" investigation. (Ken Cedeno/Pool via AP)

The hearing came the day after the first debate of the presidential campaign, in the course of which President Trump reiterated his threats not to respect the outcome of the balloting and made an open appeal to fascists and white supremacists to stand by his campaign. Not a single Democrat or Republican on the Judiciary Committee, supposedly charged with responsibility for upholding the US legal system, made any reference to the brazen lawlessness promoted by Trump the night before.

The Judiciary Committee is headed by South Carolina Republican Lindsey Graham, a sharp critic of Trump during the campaign for the 2016 Republican presidential nomination who has since become one of Trumps most slavish Senate flatterers. Graham is locked in a tight reelection battle with Democrat Jaime Harrison, who has raised a huge campaign war chest and is killing me financially, by Grahams own admission. His political career is now completely tied to Trump.

Graham launched an investigation earlier this year into the origins of the FBI probe into alleged connections between then-candidate Trump and the Russian government, codenamed Crossfire Hurricane. This was the initial form of what became the Mueller investigation, named after former FBI Director Robert Mueller, who was named special counsel and took over the probe after Trump fired Comey as FBI director in May 2017.

The Judiciary Committee investigation is based on the findings of Justice Department Inspector General Michael Horowitz, who was sharply critical of one aspect of Crossfire Hurricanethe FBI wiretapping of former Trump foreign policy aide Carter Page, on the basis of a warrant obtained under the Federal Intelligence Surveillance Act. Horowitz found that the FBI application for the FISA warrant contained at least 17 serious errors, including suppression of the fact that Page was serving as a CIA informant when he met with a number of Russian government officials.

While the Horowitz report documented the cavalier attitude of FBI officials to such legal requirements as evidence and probable cause, he was careful not to claim that the entire investigation into the Trump campaign was either illegal or politically motivated.

This has not stopped efforts, driven by the Trump White House, to obtain either Justice Department or congressional sanction for Trumps claims that the Obama-Biden administration had engaged in illegal surveillance of the Republican presidential campaign. Trump has repeatedly expressed the view that Obama, Biden and dozens of other officials in their administration should be liable to lengthy prison terms for this alleged spying.

Attorney General William Barr has appointed US Attorney John Durham to conduct an internal investigation into the origins of the Russia probe, with Trump aides expressing the hope that Comey and other top officials will be indicted. One FBI lawyer has been indicted for falsifying an email message relating to Carter Page, but the Durham investigation has so far failed to deliver the desired pre-election bombshell with less than five weeks remaining to Election Day.

The conflict that played out Wednesday before the Senate committee is a continuation of political warfare between two reactionary factions of the ruling class that has raged since Trumps nomination as the Republican presidential candidate in 2016. On the one side is the fascistic president and his Republican enablers. On the other is the nominal opposition of the Democrats, who have relentlessly promoted the fabricated and unsubstantiated claims of Russian meddling and Trump administration collusion put forward by sections of the intelligence apparatus at odds with Trump over foreign policy questions, particularly related to Russia and the Middle East.

The Senate Judiciary Committee hearings are the congressional version of Durhams probe, with the same goal: to dig up or manufacture political mud that can be of assistance to Trumps reelection campaign. In preparation for Comeys appearance, the Trump administration produced two political stink bombs in quick succession.

On September 25, Attorney General William Barr sent a letter to Graham revealing that the Russian who had been a sub-source for the notorious Steele dossiera lengthy document alleging significant Russian financial and government connections with Trumps business enterprises, as well as seedy details of Trumps alleged sexual activities in Moscowwas suspected of himself being a Russian intelligence agent. The source was identified as Igor Danchenko, a Ukrainian-born lawyer employed at a Washington think tank.

Then, on September 29, Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe released a one-page letter after Barr agreed to its declassification. The letter claims that the CIA had learned in July 2016 from Russian intelligence contacts that Hillary Clinton was taking steps to trigger a Trump-Russia scandal in the hopes that this would deflect attention from the FBI investigation into her use of a private email server while she was US secretary of state.

The combined effect of these two documents was meant to suggestin an extremely convoluted and murky fashionthat Hillary Clinton had been acting as a dupe of Russian intelligence when she began voicing charges that Trump had close political ties to Russia and was acting as an instrument of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The result was Wednesdays hearing, in which both Republican and Democratic senators traded charges that their political rivals were Russian stooges. Graham and other Republicans denounced Comey for the bogus FISA warrant to wiretap Carter Page, absurdly striking a pose as defenders of the civil liberties of the American people.

The Democrats responded with equally reactionary diatribes against Trump as the supposed agent of Moscow, reiterating the phony charges that were the basis of the Mueller investigation. Ranking Judiciary Committee member Diane Feinstein readily admitted that the FISA application to wiretap Carter Page and the Steele dossier as a whole were riddled with false information, but she claimed that these were only minor aspects of the anti-Russia investigation.

Comey, for his part, defended Crossfire Hurricane, saying it had been done by the book. He flatly rejected claims that the Russia investigation as a whole was a fabrication. But he seemed mainly concerned not to become collateral damage in the political warfare.

He claimed dozens of times that he could not remember, did not know, or was not aware of various aspects of the Crossfire Hurricane investigation, denials which became increasingly implausible as they accumulated throughout the day. Eventually, Senator Mike Lee, a Utah Republican, said with exasperation, With all due respect, Mr. Comey, you dont seem to know anything about an investigation that you ran.

Comey also rebuffed the claim made by President Trump during the Tuesday night debate that Joe Biden was personally responsible, during his final days as vice president, for the FBI investigation into Trumps national security advisor Michael Flynn, who was fired for lying about his contacts with the Russian ambassador during the transition period between the election and Trumps inauguration.

I would remember it because itd be highly inappropriate for a president or vice president to suggest prosecution or investigation of anyoneand it did not happen, Comey said.

Comey also welcomed suggestions from Democrats, notably Senate Minority Whip Richard Durbin, that Trump could be vulnerable to Russian blackmail because he needs money to pay for Trump Organization loans and debts totaling $421 million for which he is personally responsible. The New York Times revealed the existence of these debts in its front-page expose Monday based on 20 years of Trumps personal tax returns.
The Union Home Ministry, as part of its announcements for Unlock 5.0, has allowed the opening up of cinema halls from October 15, 2020 onwards. The announcement comes as a big relief for cinema halls and multiplex owners, as movies halls have been shut since March this year due to the strict lockdown restrictions due to COVID-19.

However, the Ministry has restricted the seating capacity in cinemas, theatres and multiplexes to 50 per cent in non-containment zones. Halls in containment zones will continue to remain shut.

Want to know more about the implications for the movie and multiplex industry? Click here to register for SCREENXX 2020 today.

The Multiplex Association of India, representing the interests of cinema exhibition industry, had been appealing to the Government of India to reopen cinema halls through its campaign #UnlockCinemaSaveJobs. The industry body claimed that the rate of losses resulting from closure of cinema halls stood at Rs 1,500 crore monthly and amounted to Rs 9,000 crore over the last six months.

The cinema exhibition industry comprises of 10,000 cinema screens across the country and directly employs more than 2 lakh people.

Reacting to the latest announcement by the Government, Karan Taurani, VP  Research Analyst (Media & Consumer Discretionary), Elara Capital, said, Cinemas being allowed to open pan-India basis Unlock 5.0 with 50 per cent occupancy is much better than the earlier indicated 25 per cent cap as per the West Bengal CM last week  this is in line, but positive vis-a-vis the West Bengal CMs announcement.

He further said that Maharashtra might not allow the opening up of cinema halls  in line with expectations. Also, other states like Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, too, may not open up in October.

We expect pan-India opening around Diwali time or latest by the last week of November. Hence, we dont expect any large scale content or a big Hindi film to hit the cinemas before December (there is high likelihood that Hollywood releases will test the waters around November only if Maharashtra opens up, whereas Sooryavashi and 83 will move to Christmas and beyond  Republic Day), he added.

Taurani said that further updates on the content release front are awaited and added that clarity will emerge over the next two weeks.
Facebook tightens political ad bans as US election nears

India

pti-Madhuri Adnal

Washington, Oct 01: With just over a month to go before Americans head en masse to the polls in an extraordinarily contentious election, Facebook is expanding restrictions on political advertising, including new bans on messages claiming widespread voter fraud.

New prohibitions laid out in a blog post come days after President Donald Trump raised the prospect of mass fraud in the vote-by-mail process during a debate with Democratic rival Joe Biden. Banned ads would include calling a method of voting inherently fraudulent or corrupt, or using isolated incidents of voter fraud to delegitimize the result of an election, Rob Leathern, Facebook's director of product management, tweeted.

Delhi riots: No coercive action against Facebook VP until Oct 15 says SC

The changes apply to Facebook and Instagram and are effective immediately, he said. The ban includes ads that call an election into question because the result isn't determined on the final day of voting. There is a good chance U.S. election results will require additional time this year because of expanded mail-in ballots due to the pandemic.

Also banned are advertisements portraying voting or census participation as meaningless and advising people not to take part.

The Trump administration has been trying to end the 2020 U.S. census early, as part of what opponents say is a strategy to enhance the political power of Republicans and non-Hispanic whites by undercounting minorities and others in hard-to-count communities. The census numbers are used to decide how many congressional seats each state gets for the next decade.

US Presidential Debate 2020: Debate finds angry opening as Trump, Biden lash out at each other

Facebook had already unveiled a raft of measures this month to prevent its platform from being used to sow chaos and spread misinformation before, during and after the U.S. presidential election on November 3. Last week it banned ads that prematurely declared an election victory. Before that, it said would restrict new political ads in the week before the election and remove posts that convey misinformation about COVID-19 and voting.
SOHC

Back in 2016, the British custom motorcycle segment was delighted with the arrival of a new player on the scene. To be a little more specific, Death Machines of London was co-founded by James Hilton and Ray Petty in (you guessed it) London, United Kingdom. Besides developing some of the raddest machines youll ever have the pleasure to encounter, these folks also specialize in designing a healthy deal of funky casual apparel items.As such, it goes without saying these Brits are no strangers to the majestic realm of two-wheeled entities. If you happen to be into meticulously crafted one-off machines, then paying DMOLs crew a visit on their social media accounts will certainly fill each and every last corner of your moto-loving soul with sheer joy.While browsing their spectacular range, I stumbled upon an outlandish Honda GL1000 Gold Wing-based venture that managed to capture my full attention. It features an intricate design language, incorporating a neat collection of sharp edges and smooth curves that work in unison to deliver a remarkable display of glorious craftmanship, to say the least.On the other hand, this projects donor is no toy. The 1977 model in Hondas fearsome GL1000 lineup is powered by a fiendish four-strokeboxer colossus with four cylinders and a compression ratio of 9.2:1. This nasty piece of liquid-cooled machinery boasts two valves per cylinder head and an astronomical displacement of 999cc. Additionally, the engine is equipped with as many as four Keihin carbs that allow it to breathe with ease.At around 7,000 rpm, this bad boy is capable of generating up to 78 bhp, accompanied by a malicious torque output of 61 pound-feet (83 Nm) at approximately 5,500 revs. A five-speed transmission is tasked with channeling the powerplants feral force to Gold Wings rear 17-inch wheel by means of a shaft final drive. Ultimately, the whole shebang enables Hondas monstrosity to reach a generous top speed of just under 122 mph (196 kph).In terms of chassis, suspension duties are taken good care of by a set of telescopic forks up front. On the opposite end, the entire structure is supported by a double-sided swingarm and dual shock absorbers. Stopping power is supplier by twin 232 mm rotors (9.13 inches) and two-piston calipers at the front, along with a single 250 mm (9.84 inches) brake disc and a one-piston caliper at the rear.As to DMOLs outstanding creature, its bodywork contains a selection of CNC machined modules and 3D printed elements, as well as several hand-crafted aluminum panels that do a splendid job at looking the business!These include GL1000s angular fuel tank, its belly pan and a minimalist tail section, besides one menacing front fairing that houses an LED lighting strip. Furthermore, you will find a neat filler cap incorporated into the gas tank and a ravishing leather saddle, which rests on a slim custom subframe manufactured in-house. To top it all off, the workshop went about fabricating a gorgeous one-off speedometer that gives this beast a personality of its own.Last but not least, DMOL turned their attention to the performance side of things. They treated Goldies suspension to a comprehensive makeover using top-grade components from Ohlins catalogue, while its brakes received a considerable dose of Brembo goodness. The boxer mill was blessed with retuned carburetors and a magnificent exhaust system.Right, now that weve wrapped this up, Id strongly encourage that you head straight over to these fellows Facebook and Instagram pages to admire the rest of their incredible exploits.


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Gov. Andrew Cuomo has projected the image of an all-powerful, can-do executive with an uncanny ability to outmaneuver his political rivals, but the three-term governor might have overplayed his hand this week through an ill-fated effort to fix voting problems in Brooklyn.

He is establishing evidence so he can say on election night: I told you this election was going to be fraudulent, Cuomo told reporters on Thursday of President Donald Trump, who is openly suggesting he will not accept the November election results. Is Brooklyn one of those situations? Yes.

Cuomo might have thought that he had a good plan to make sure that nearly 100,000 Brooklyn voters who received the wrong absentee ballot return envelope could vote in the upcoming November election by sending them only new envelopes. But now that the New York City Board of Elections is going with its original plan to send new ballots, in addition to correct return envelopes, to affected voters all that Cuomo appears to have accomplished was demonstrating the limits of his power. And it gave progressive lawmakers another reason to dislike him and threaten him with a primary challenge in 2022.

The first step towards failure began earlier this week, following media reports that the New York City BOE sent as many as 100,000 ballots with mislabeled return envelopes to Brooklyn voters. A Cuomo administration official got on the phone with the city BOE and suggested that they just send some new envelopes instead of new ballots as well. Not only would this save some paper, it would also rob President Donald Trump of some fodder for his lie-based misinformation campaign about rampant fraud with mail-in ballots.

There is nothing wrong with the actual ballots and sending 100,000 duplicate ballots seems to be an over correction, Rich Azzopardi, a spokesman for Cuomo, told WNYC. The Cuomo administration noted that it was simply offering a suggestion to the board, whose members are appointed by Democratic and Republican party leaders in the five boroughs, but the response by state lawmakers reflected simmering conflict between Cuomo and some of the progressive reformers recently elected to the state Senate from New York City.

This is straight up disenfranchisement and an affront to our democracy, said state Senate Elections Committee Chair Zellnor Myrie of Brooklyn tweeted Tuesday. Fellow freshman state Sen. Alessandra Biaggi from the Bronx  who Azzopardi once infamously referred to as one of three fucking idiots in the state Legislature  tweeted a threat to primary Cuomo if the board went with his plan. Are you drunk? Secretary to the Governor Melissa DeRosa fired back. Clapping back at progressives on Twitter was likely not the sort of attention the administration was seeking when it first got involved with the whole hubbub over the ballots.

In fairness to the Cuomo administration, the city BOEs long record of electoral failure shows how they would often benefit from good advice. The whole problem started because of the agencys incompetence, and this isnt the first time, even just this year: One-quarter of all Brooklyn ballots were invalidated during the June 23 primary election.

But good advice does not appear to be what the administration was offering when it first suggested sending just the envelopes. Cost is not an issue because the Rochester-based printer had already agreed to pay for a new round of voting packages, and no one knows how many voters might have thrown out their ballots or sent them back in the wrong envelope  which wont be counted because the voters name has to match the name on the envelope  before they receive the new return envelope, which will be useless if the voter doesnt have a ballot.

Election law experts favored the BOE plan. Replacing mismatched sets of ballots and inner envelopes with matched sets enfranchises these voters and ensures their votes are counted, said election lawyer Sarah Steiner. Many people will have discarded the wrong ballot along with the envelope, and many more will be confused and possibly disenfranchised by receiving only an envelope and no ballot. She and other legal experts told City & State that sending new ballots would not give Trump any new basis for challenging election results in New York.

Experts also said that the only thing the governors approach would do is confuse voters. The city BOE would have had to abandon its announced plan to deal with the problem. Voters would need to know to use the ballots they have already received while awaiting new return envelopes. And the board would have to somehow identify voters who sent in their ballot with the wrong envelope or threw out their ballot and get new ballots to them anyway.

The fact that Trump has seized on the issue would seem to show that the governor was onto something politically by advising that no new duplicate ballots get sent out. This is exactly what I'm talking about, Trump said Wednesday. It's a big, big scale problem; 100,000 ballots went out to New Yorkers with the wrong names on them, wrong envelopes, wrong everything." But Trump has been making spurious allegations of voter fraud since 2016, and he was already pointing to New Yorks problems from the primaries as justification. By now, its clear that nothing Democrats do to appease him, not even making it harder for their own supporters to vote, will stop Trump from casting doubt on any election result he doesnt like.

Cuomos proclivity for micromanaging could explain why he could not resist getting himself involved in the issue. Sometimes it works well, such as when he averted an L train shutdown and made sure the state had enough hospital capacity during the first weeks of the pandemic.

But this has not always been a good trait. His involvement in decision making at the Metropolitan Transportation Authority has been blamed for setbacks such as the swift departure of New York City Transit President Andy Byford. Recent reporting by The Wall Street Journal, has highlighted how Cuomo overruled local officials who wanted to move faster in implementing social distancing restrictions during the pandemic. His recent power plays with New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio underscore how the governor wants to be the one calling the shots on police reform, reopening public schools, or shutting down local businesses in response to new outbreaks of the coronavirus.

The Cuomo administration contends that merely offering a suggestion doesnt constitute micromanagement. Anyone trying to shove this into a profile on micromanaging will need an extra large shoe horn, Azzopardi told City & State of Cuomos suggestion this week on fixing voting in Brooklyn. After this article was published, Azzopardi followed up to say that if the administration had wanted to micromanage, they would have issued an executive order compelling the city BOE to implement the governors suggestion. We offered a solution, but always said it was up to them, he added in a statement on Thursday.

Getting involved in how the city BOE handles return envelopes was an unusual move for a governor to make in the process, according to attorney Ken Fisher, a former member of the City Council. It's considered party business and they're the ones that are designated to deal with it, he told City & State. In the event that the board needs some help, state party leaders sometimes get involved, he added. The Cuomo administration contends that merely offering a suggestion doesnt constitute micromanagement.

Democratic State Party Chair Jay Jacobs said Cuomos involvement was appropriate. While it is correct that the governor does not have direct oversight of the electoral electoral process, he is still the governor of the state, and his responsibility is to ensure that the people believe and understand that we're going to have fair elections, Jacobs told City & State.

But the end result in this case is that the BOE is proceeding with its plan, Trump will get his talking point  not that it makes any real difference, according to election lawyers  and progressives are up in arms against Cuomo, which isnt making him look so big and powerful after all.

This article has been updated post-publication to include additional comment from Cuomo spokesman Rich Azzopardi.
The former superintendent of a Pennsylvania school district and two other officials were charged Wednesday with felony child endangerment over allegations they covered up lead and asbestos contamination in the schools and exposed students and staff to serious health risks.

Starting in 2016, officials in the Scranton School District were repeatedly told about dangerous lead levels in drinking water in at least 10 schools but failed to ensure tainted water fountains and sinks were disconnected or remediated and misled the public about the problem, according to a grand jury presentment released Wednesday.

Former Superintendent Alexis Kirijan and former Director of Operations Jeffrey Brazil also knew that inspectors had found dangerous levels of asbestos in dozens of locations, including classrooms, restrooms and a cafeteria, but did little about it, the grand jury said.

Hiding the truth exposed Scranton schoolchildren to unsafe levels of lead in their water, and asbestos in their air, and these administrators' failure to fix the problem broke the law, Attorney General Josh Shapiro said at a news conference.

More: Unwilling to pay to remove dangerous asbestos, universities across the U.S. claim its safe to ignore

Kirijan, Brazil and a current maintenance supervisor, Joseph Slack, were charged with reckless endangerment and endangering the welfare of children.

Dr. Kirijan has dedicated her career to educating children. We will defend her against these allegations, said her attorney, Frank Nocito.

It wasnt immediately clear whether the other defendants have lawyers who could comment on their behalf, and they could not be reached at phone numbers associated with them.

An environmental engineer told The Associated Press in January that he first notified district officials in 2016 that he had found elevated lead levels in drinking water. Joseph Guzek said that when he returned in December 2018 and again in December 2019, he also found lead in the water.

At one point, Guzek detected lead in more than half the 303 sinks and water fountains his company tested, the grand jury said. Guzek also uncovered 74 places in district buildings that were near the highest levels of danger for asbestos.

A school principal told Kirijan and Brazil that ceilings in several classrooms had collapsed, sending plaster and dust onto students and their desks and books, the grand jury said. Kirijan told the principal to stop emailing her about the problem and to instead communicate by phone, the report said.

The principal insisted on email and then proceeded to block Kirijans phone number in an effort to ensure that all ... communications were documented, the grand jury said.

Kirijan went out of her way to hide the extent of the districts asbestos problem, the grand jury said.

Brazil retired in March 2019 and Kirijan resigned in August 2019, but neither official told their successors about the contamination, nor alerted school board members or anyone else, the grand jury said.

They knew it was dangerous and they chose to leave everyone in the dark, not just the parents and the public, but principals and staff and teachers too, Shapiro said.

It was only after state police warned the new district administration about the lead and asbestos problems that immediate steps were taken to disconnect tainted water sources and close school buildings for asbestos removal, the grand jury said.

A message was left with the school district Wednesday seeking comment on the criminal case.

Current and former employees of the Scranton district have alleged in a separate federal lawsuit that officials knew for years that unsafe levels of lead and asbestos posed potential health risks for students and staff but never disclosed the information to them or the public.

The district is seeking to have the suit dismissed, saying the plaintiffs dont claim they were personally exposed to asbestos in any affected rooms, or that they ingested affected water from any sinks or fountains. The district also says that employees dont have a constitutional right to a safe working environment.

School districts statewide have been grappling with how to address environmental hazards in aging school buildings. Asbestos is a known carcinogen, while lead can cause lifelong brain damage and other injuries, especially in children.

A 2018 state law encourages schools to test for lead in drinking water annually, though it does not mandate testing, and the state Department of Education does not track how many districts have tested. Schools that find high levels of lead are required to notify the state and act immediately to prevent people from drinking contaminated water.

As of the end of November, testing had revealed excess lead concentrations in more than 100 buildings in more than 30 Pennsylvania school districts, vocational-technical and charter schools, and other public education buildings.

More:

EPA chief pledges more cleanups, less focus on climate: Americas environment today is cleaner than its ever been

3 arrested, including suspected gunman, in fatal shooting of Pa. high school senior

Harrisburg man shot roommate for calling his mother fat, police say
For months, public health experts have been eagerly watching the companies developing spit tests for the coronavirus that could be used at home, producing results in a matter of minutes.

If these rapid saliva tests worked, as many news articles have pointed out, they could greatly expand the number of people getting tested. Some experts have even said they could perform as well as a vaccine in curbing the spread of the coronavirus and paving a path back to normalcy.

But so far, the technology is not panning out as some have hoped.

E25Bio and OraSure, two companies pursuing rapid at-home coronavirus tests, have abandoned efforts to use saliva in their products. Their tests, which detect pieces of coronavirus proteins called antigens, will for now rely on shallow nose swabs instead.

If I was placing a bet  which I am, because Im leading an antigen-based testing company  I would say its going to be very difficult for antigen-based testing to work on saliva samples, said Bobby Brooke Herrera, an E25Bio founder and its chief executive. The notion that the virus sets up shop in the mouth and produces enough antigen to be picked up by todays technology, he said, is far-fetched.
US President has begun planting seeds of doubt in the legitimacy of the November 3 elections as he is aware of his defeat, Democratic presidential nominee has said, a day after the chaotic presidential debate.

In terms of election legitimacy, he made it clear that he didn't think this was going to be--if he lost, it wouldn't be a legitimate election. Already began to plant seeds of doubt in the legitimacy of this election. I don't know any president that's ever done that before, Biden told reporters in Ohio.

During the first of the three presidential debates in Cleveland, Ohio, on Tuesday night moderated by Fox News anchor Chris Wallace, 74-year-old Trump and his 77-year-old rival Biden traded barbs about each other's families, making it one of the most chaotic White House debates in years.

Biden slammed Trump for not condemning the white supremacist.

His dog whistles to white supremacy, when asked whether would he condemn white supremacy, he said--he didn't say a word. And then when I said, well, how about the Proud Boys, which is a white supremacist group? He said, well, I just told them to stand down and stand ready. Stand down and stand ready, based on the outcome of the election? Biden said.

He said the Tuesday night debate was a wake-up call for all the Americans.

What I tried to do last night, I tried to speak directly into the camera to the American people, to talk about their concerns, to talk about what's on their mind, to talk about what I would do were I president, he said.

Biden alleged that Trump has no plans, no ideas, and didn't express a single plan that he had about how he was going to move forward.

It made me realise just how much is at stake. You know, for 90 minutes he tried everything to distract, everything possible, and it just didn't work. But I hope this next debate is going to be in front of real-life people. It's going to be a town hall, he said.

The second debate is scheduled for October 15 in Miami, Florida.

I'm looking forward to it, and I hope we're able to get a chance to actually answer the questions that are asked by the persons in the room. But God only knows what he'll do, Biden said.

As per RealClearPolitics, which keeps track of all major polls, Biden is leading the national poll on an average by 6.6 points and in the battleground States by 3.5 points.

Biden on Wednesday did the campaigning through train ride in Ohio and Pennsylvania, two important battle ground States.

He not only attacked me constantly, and my family, but he attacked the moderator. And again, on his tweets this morning or last night. I just hope there's a way in which the debate commission can control the ability of us to answer the question without interruption, he said refusing to speculate on what happens in the second or third debate.

Biden urged his countrymen to go out and vote.

Show up. If you can vote early, vote early. Vote whatever way is most convenient for you, but vote. And if you show up in large enough numbers, nothing is going to change, he said.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The hairy moth larva found in Tennessee and dubbed the Trumpillar because it resembles President Donalds Trump hair also can be found in Pennsylvania.

According to U.S. Pest Protection, the organization that shared a photo of the Trumpillar after it was discovered by one of its customers, the official name is megalopyge opercularis  also known as the Southern Flannel Moth and the furry puss caterpillar.

Symbolistic for its fuzzy yellowish-orange hair, the Trumpillar takes on a very distinct look of the Presidents hairstyle when in its larva stage of life. These hairs are scientifically known as the word, setae, U.S. Pest Protection wrote.

The company added this caution - Just as its painful to look at, its painful to step on as well. The setae of a larva Trumpillar are hiding the lethal pointed fleshy appendage. A single spikelet can cause agonizing pain when it comes in contact with human skin. If a human happens to step on one with bare feet, intense throbbing can occur in minutes.

Donna Weiser and her husband, Brett, live in Cooke Twp., surrounded by Michaux State Forest. Brett had an up close and personal  and painful  experience with the puss caterpillar.

My husband was stung by one a few weeks ago and still has the welts on his arm. Several of my friends who are mountain bikers and hikers have also seen them in and around northern Michaux State Forest. This is the most venomous caterpillar in the US and believe us, it is VERY painful for 24 to 48 hours and could be very dangerous for a child or someone who is allergic, she said.

If you see a bug that looks like Trumps hair, or a miniature toupee hairpiece iconic of President Trumps hair, its most likely just a Southern Flannel Moth in larva caterpillar form, U.S. Pest Protection said.

To get us ready for the Presidential Debate tonight, here's an interesting blog about the "Trumpillar" - a common insect... Posted by U.S. Pest on Tuesday, September 29, 2020

Trumpillar  a hairy caterpillar that resembles President of the United States, Donald J. Trumps hair, but on an insect is really just a flannel moth in its larva form.

READ MORE

Toxic caterpillars living in Pennsylvania will give you rash, blisters and maybe kill you.
Unpleasant coronavirus-themed Halloween masks, which were made by a Chinese firm, have been put on sale by several users on Amazon.

Unsightly coronavirus masks

With the rising death toll from the COVID-19 virus worldwide, which totaled at least one million this week, the off-putting and frightening masks are on sale for about $19.

According to The Sun, the manufacturers called the products "Corona Halloween Masks" and are fashioned from the appearance of the COVID-19 virus when viewed under a microscope.

The Amazon listings state that the manufacturing firm that made the masks is YTFU EU and is listed as a company based in Guangdong, China.

The products' descriptions write that the Corona Halloween Masks are available in bright green and dull grey with red spikes. The products are made out of natural latex and recommended them due to their "scary" capabilities.

The masks are made with frightening eyes and a mouth filled with teeth, and several people have noted it could be the most distasteful Halloween costume-of-choice anyone could choose for the October 31 holiday.

People wonder if the products are really for sale or if someone is just making an elaborate and sick prank.

The chief executive of the healthcare charity Patients Association, Rachel Power, said the products showed a distasteful and terribly unappealing move by the manufacturers and sellers. She expressed her hopes that the people involved would remove the masks from sale immediately.

Power noted that she could see the majority of people who find out about the masks to find them sickening and that not many, if any, would be willing to wear them for the Halloween season.

Also Read: Tennessee Man Kills Parents, Makes 'Stew of Human Remains' to Inherit Their Money

Abiding by the rules

A spokesperson for Amazon said that all sellers on their website are required to follow strict selling guidelines to ensure quality and safe products. Failure to do so, the official warned that they could be subjected to legal actions, including the potential removal of their account.

The Amazon spokesperson also said they would be removing the products from the listings. The YTFU EU company was not reached for an immediate comment on their products.

The prime minister of the United Kingdom, Boris Johnson, has recently announced the country is implementing stricter guidelines to curb the coronavirus pandemic that has ravaged the U.K. One of the protocols limits the number of gatherings to six people but allows some exceptions, as reported by Express.

Johnson said the new guidelines could last up to six months, depending on the results, and noted that annual celebrations such as Halloween and Christmas would most likely be affected.

The head of the National Police Chief's Council, Martin Hewitt, said law enforcement personnel around the U.K. would soon be advising the public to avoid celebrating Halloween the way they used to in previous years.

Hewitt added big events such as having bonfires will not be allowed but noted that the specifics would be left to the local authorities.

In the United States, several health officials have already issued multiple guidelines on celebrating Halloween and other holidays as October begins.

Related Article: Lesbians Chopped Man, Used His Fingers to Open Mobile Phone and Steal His Money

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Overdrive

Triumph Motorcycles has released photographs of its upcoming middleweight roadster, the Trident. The company mentions that the motorcycle that has been designed and developed at Triumph's headquarter in Hinckley UK has reached its final stage of testing. The prototype images of the motorcycle were shared in August this year, where Triumph Motorcycles had named the Honda CB650R, the Kawasaki Z650 and the Yamaha MT-07 as potential rivals of the Trident. The Triumph Trident that has been in development for four years now, will be launched in early 2021 in all the key markets. And yes, India is one of them.

Powering the Triumph Trident is an inline-three cylinder engine that is based on the now-defunct Daytona 675. While the British motorcycle brand has not revealed the exact specifications, we believe it to be in the range of 675-700cc. This could be done to have a clear distinction between itself and the entry-level variants of the Street Triple along with being a more powerful rival to the above-mentioned competition.

Considering that the Triumph Trident is primarily aimed at new riders, the power output is believed to be under 100PS. In terms of features, the Triumph Trident will come with Bluetooth Connectivity, riding modes, traction control, dual-channel ABS and LCD instrumentation. Triumph has also confirmed that the Trident will be manufactured at its plant in Thailand, which means it will be the most affordable Triumph motorcycle on sale. However, this will hold weightage until the Triumph-Bajaj motorcycle arrives in the scene. Earlier this year, both these brands entered in a non-enquity partnership which will be working on an all-new mid-capacity engine (200-750cc) platform for a range of motorcycles, prices of which will start from sub-Rs 2 lakh.
TDT | Manama

Kuwait yesterday swore in its new Amir, Shaikh Nawaf Al Ahmed Al Sabah, who pledged to preserve the countrys unity and stability. HH Shaikh Nawaf Al Ahmed was sworn in during a special session of the National Assembly, replacing the late His Highness Shaikh Sabah Al Ahmed Al Jabir Al Sabah. His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa sent a cable of congratulations to HH Shaikh Nawaf Al Ahmed on his accession to the throne.

His Majesty expressed his best wishes to HH Shaikh Nawaf Al Ahmed for abundant health to continue the path of growth and progress in Kuwait, and serve Arab and Islamic nations. HM, the King confirmed the historical bilateral relations, wishing Kuwait prosperity under the leadership of HH Shaikh Nawaf Al Ahmed.

For his part, HH Shaikh Nawaf Al Ahmed expressed deepest thanks to HM the King for his fraternal and sincere feelings, which reflect solid brotherly ties binding the two countries and peoples. He wished HM the King good health, happiness, and wellness.

His Royal Highness the Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, sent a similar cable of congratulations to the new Kuwaiti leader. In a phone call held yesterday, HM the King offered sincere condolences to the Al Sabah family and the brotherly people of Kuwait.

HM, the King paid homage to the late Amir, saying that Kuwait, the Arabian Gulf, the Arab and Islamic nations lost a charismatic leader who devoted his life to serving his nation and people, as well as the Arab and Islamic nations and the whole humanity.

He hailed the late Amir who earned high esteem and standing among world leaders and peoples and set a role model of wisdom, statesmanship, and sincerity, saying that his works and achievements would remain engraved in the annals. HM, the King wished HH Shaikh Nawaf Al Ahmed to continue the march of development and progress for Kuwait and its brotherly people.

He reiterated Bahrains solidarity with Kuwait in such times of adversity, hailing deep-rooted fraternal relations binding the two countries, based on a longstanding history, kinship ties, and common destiny. HM, the King looked forward to further strengthening joint ties for the good of both brotherly countries and peoples, wishing Kuwait more security, stability, progress, and prosperity, led by HH Shaikh Nawaf Al Ahmed.
The Duchess of Cornwall has warned domestic abuse cases have risen during the pandemic after hearing the incredibly moving experiences of victims.

Camilla met the group when she visited Belfast and Lisburn Womens Aid centre in the south of the city to listen to their stories.

The duchess, who toured Northern Ireland with the Prince of Wales, has spent a number of years highlighting the issue of domestic violence and has raised concerns about the problem escalating during lockdown.

Camilla during her a solo visit to the Belfast & Lisburn Womens Aid (Tim Rooke/PA)

Asked if she thought domestic abuse had got worse, she replied: I am afraid so. I would like to say it hasnt but I am afraid to say that it has.

We have all got to do our bit to try and break the corrosive silence around the issue. I certainly am trying to do everything I can.

Like today, when we are allowed out, I would like to do more. The bravery of the women today was remarkable. I was incredibly moved.

There were 8,302 domestic abuse incidents recorded in Northern Ireland between April and June during the coronavirus lockdown  an increase on the same period last year and the equivalent of 91 incidents a day.

Your vital work changes and saves lives every day, and I am so grateful to the whole team at Belfast and Lisburn Womens Aid.  The Duchess wrote a note to those at the charity who have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic. pic.twitter.com/UMmrF2c0vb  The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall (@ClarenceHouse) September 30, 2020

During the visit, Camilla listened to a woman, who remained anonymous, who was trafficked to Northern Ireland via Germany from her home country of Somalia.

She tearfully recalled how four of her six children  all boys  were stabbed to death by her former partner, who also tried to kill her.

The man has never been brought to justice and after her other two children, a twin boy and girl, were taken away by their paternal grandfather, the woman  who was married at just 16  left Somalia and has never seen them again.

Story continues

She wept as she thanked Camilla for coming to hear her story, telling her: Thank you, thank you for coming to listen. I am very very happy to see you today.

Camilla wore a face mask during her visit to Northern Ireland (Tim Rooke/PA)

Camilla smiled and said: No thank you for telling us, and made a point of going up to her afterwards and telling her: You are so very, very brave.

The duchess listened keenly as one middle-aged woman told her: I was with my husband for 37 years and he became an alcoholic and my abuse got worse. I never had the strength to leave but then I rang Womens Aid and they gave me the strength.

I am now on my own, I have my own home, I have my self-confidence and a path I never had before.

What gave you the courage to leave? Camilla asked.

One day something just clicked. I told him Im leaving, I told him I would not be back and I have never looked back, the woman replied.
Living planktic foraminifera from the North Pacific. Credit: Jennifer Fehrenbacher, Oregon State University

Repeated catastrophic ice discharges from western North America into the North Pacific contributed to, and perhaps triggered, hemispheric-scale changes in the Earth's climate during the last ice age, new research published online today in Science reveals.

The discovery provides new insight into the impact rapidly melting ice flowing into the North Pacific may have on the climate across the planet, said Maureen Walczak, a paleoclimatologist in Oregon State University's College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences and the study's lead author.

"Understanding how the ocean has interacted with glacial ice in the past helps us predict what could happen next," Walczak said.

The Cordilleran ice sheet once covered large portions of western North America from Alaska to Washington state and western Montana. Radiocarbon dating and analyses of the marine sediment record revealed that recurrent episodes of discharge from this ice sheet over the past 42,000 years were early events in a chain reaction of disturbances to the global climate. These disturbances triggered changes in deep ocean circulation and retreat of ice sheets in the North Atlantic.

The findings challenge theories that those massive, globally-reaching disturbances originated in the North Atlantic as rapid ice loss from the Laurentide ice sheet, another massive ice sheet that covered much of Canada and the northern United States, including the upper Midwest and Northeast. The Laurentide ice loss events are known as Heinrich Events.

"The outcome of this research was unexpected. The data irrevocably says that the Pacific ice goes first, with Heinrich Events and other changes following in a rhythm. The Pacific Ocean sets the drum beat," Walczak said. "This is a paradigm shift in our thinking about how these events are connected."

To gain insight into the climate history of the North Pacific, an international team of researchers collected and analyzed sediment cores from the northern Gulf of Alaska that were recovered by drilling as part of the International Ocean Discovery Program.

Epoxy sand grain mounts of iceberg rafted debris in sample 341_19E14H2W_100 in cross polarized light and plane light. Credit: Gina M. Carney (Appalachian State University)

"Getting these new insights took years of work. We first mapped the seafloor and recovered short sediment cores in 2004, drilled longer cores in 2013 and had 16 years of painstaking laboratory work involving several Ph.D. students," said Alan Mix, the project's principal investigator and co-author of the paper.

"This was a virtually unknown area when we started, and now it offers among the most detailed and best-dated long records of ocean change on the planet during the ice age," said Mix, a distinguished professor in OSU's College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences.

Researchers measured radioactive isotopes of carbon using two particle accelerators to establish the chronology of events and also added meticulous counts of small rocks dropped by icebergs known as ice-rafted debris.

The research team traced the source of the ice-rafted debris back to purges of massive ice streams emanating from the Cordilleran ice sheet, which covered northern Washington, most of British Columbia and southern Alaska from about 70,000 to 17,000 years ago.

Dirty icebergs broke off from surging ice streams and drifted northward in ocean currents, carrying and eventually dropping their load of sand, pebbles and gravel, leaving a record of rapid ice retreat buried in the deep sea like sunken treasure.

The authors of the study named these Alaskan iceberg dumps "Siku Events" after the Inuit word for ice. The big surprise, discovered by combining the record of glacial debris with the radiocarbon chronology, was that Siku Events immediately preceded Heinrich events, which are a similar type of ice purge in the North Atlantic.

Scientists have been aware of Heinrich Events, from similar evidence of ice-rafted debris in the North Atlantic, for more than 30 years but the trigger for those events has never been convincingly explained, the researchers said.

Research vessel JOIDES Resolution in port in Victoria, British Columbia, prior to Integrated Ocean Drilling Program's Expedition 341, to investigate the Southern Alaska Continental Margin. Credit: A.L. Slagle

It makes sense for the Pacific Ocean to be involved in major planetary changes, Mix said. The Pacific Ocean is connected to the rest of the world by large-scale atmospheric circulation and physically around Antarctica, and during times of high sea level, through the Bering Strait and the Arctic Ocean to the North Atlantic.

"The Pacific Ocean is the largest exchangeable reservoir of heat and water and carbon dioxide on Earth, simply because of its massive size," he said. "It really is the 800-pound gorilla in the zoo of climate beasts."

Today the ice that remains along the coast of Alaska is mostly retreating and may be gone within this century as the climate warms. The melting ice will drain to the Pacific and the Arctic, contributing to sea level rise and impacting the balance of buoyant fresh and dense salty water in the ocean, much as it did in the past.

If the current ice melt follows patterns of the past, and happens quickly, it could contribute to the retreat of distant glacial systems in the North Atlantic and the Arctic.

"This is yet another reason that it is prudent to slow down warming by reducing our fossil-fuel use," Mix said.

"The new findings are likely to fuel increased interest in the North Pacific, an area that has not been as well-studied as other parts of the planet," Walczak said.

One thing that remains unclear is why the discharges from the Cordilleran ice sheet occurred. Researchers also would like to better understand the relationship between the discharges of the Cordilleran and the other climate events.

"Why did the other ice sheets respond to the retreat of the Cordilleran? How fast do the dominoes fall in this sequence of events?" Walczak asked. Those are among the questions the research team is continuing to investigate.

Explore further Freshwater flowing into the North Pacific plays key role in North America's climate

More information: M.H. Walczak el al., "Phasing of millennial-scale climate variability in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans," Science (2020). Journal information: Science M.H. Walczak el al., "Phasing of millennial-scale climate variability in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans,"(2020). science.sciencemag.org/lookup/  1126/science.aba7096
There are thousands of great Australian experiences to choose from. Chances are, your Aussie Specialist Travel Agent has experienced or planned for them before.



Experts on everything Australian, these specialists receive extensive training from Tourism Australia and most have travelled throughout Australia. They have the experience to help you plan and book your Aussie adventure. They know what to pack, what the weather will be like and how to join in with the locals.

So, if you are wondering what it's like to sail on Sydney Harbour, feel the warmth of the Australian outback, or dive on the Great Barrier Reef, contact an Aussie Specialist and you'll soon be enjoying your very own Australian experience.
Things got very awkward on Wednesday's episode of The Only Way Is Essex after Fran Parman decided to 'break the ice' with ex James 'Diags' Bennewith.

The two reality stars, both aged 29, called time on their romance in 2017 when they had an acrimonious split after she initially joined TOWIE as his housemate.

And on Wednesday's episode, Fran decided to 'break the ice' with Diags after they ended up in the same bar together.

Awkward! Things got very awkward on Wednesday's episode of The Only Way Is Essex after Fran Parman decided to 'break the ice' with ex James 'Diags' Bennewith

After being encouraged by her friends to talk to him, Fran headed over to Diags who was enjoying a socially-distanced drink with Amber Turner and Dan Edgar.

Welcoming herself over with 'hi guys', Diags was left speechless to which she quipped: 'You all look like you've seen a ghost!'

To which the trio explained it was a 'surprise', Fran added: 'How are you? I just thought I'd come on over and say hello and see how is everything.'

Asked why she was at the bar, Fran said: 'I'm here with the girls so thought I would break the ice and say hello to everyone.'

Exes: The two reality stars, both aged 29, called time on their romance in 2017 when they had an acrimonious split after she initially joined TOWIE as his housemate

'Break the ice': And on Wednesday's episode, Fran decided to 'break the ice' with Diags after they ended up in the same bar together

To which the star was met by an awkward silence, trying to make light of the situation, Fran continued: 'Any new goss or anything?'

With Diags replying: 'Not really, well, we're doing a bucket list. I'm trying to get stuff done before I'm 30.'

The foursome then went silent again with Dan awkwardly smiling and looking over at Diags.

Again making light of the situation, Fran asked: 'Any good things on the list? '

Pals: After being encouraged by her friends to talk to him, Fran headed over to Diags who was enjoying a socially-distanced drink with Amber Turner and Dan Edgar

'Seen a ghost!' Welcoming herself over with 'hi guys', Diags was left speechless to which she quipped: 'You all look like you've seen a ghost!'

With Diags explaining: 'We're working through the list as we compile it. How have you been anyway?'

'I've been great, yeah, come to see the girls and that, they said you were here when we walked in and I thought, "You know what, I'm going to break the ice." We haven't spoken for a year so I just thought I would come over.'

The trio then went in to an awkward silence again as they all smiled with Fran saying goodbye and adding: 'Well it was lovely to see you all anyway, yeah, bye.'

Talking after she went back to her friends, Amber said: 'That was a nice surprise' with Diags noting: 'Yeah it was just a bit of a shock. We weren't speaking, that was all, just a bit strange is all.'

Silence: To which the star was met by an awkward silence, trying to make light of the situation, Fran continued: 'Any new goss or anything?'

Bucket list: With Diags replying: 'Not really, well, we're doing a bucket list. I'm trying to get stuff done before I'm 30.'

To which Dan joked that no 'ex birds' will be popping up on Diags' 30th bucket list.

After the episode aired, Fran took to Instagram to reveal she had lost 10lbs of weight as she shared a stunning selfie.

She penned: '10 pounds down in weight and 10 years of @towie so why not celebrate with a selfie on @itvbe tonight at 9pm happy anniversary guys .'

Fans were quick to praise Fran for being so brave and persevering through the awkward reunion in the bar.

Stunning: After the episode aired, Fran took to Instagram to reveal she had lost 10lbs of weight as she shared a stunning selfie

One person said: '@Franparman Can we also just say how amazing does Fran look! and good on her for going up to Diags, she handled it well! #towie.'

A different fan put: '@Franparman good to see fran back on #towie and what an amazing thing you did moving in with your grandad when he needed you grandads are the best x.'

While another viewer commented: #towie Fran you look b****y amazing Hopefully if we weren't in the middle of a pandemic diags could of gave her a hug and it wouldn't have been so awks.'

It comes after Diags found love over the summer after we went Instagram official with Sophie Ernoult and shared a loved-up snap.

Fans: Fans were quick to praise Fran for being so brave and persevering through the awkward reunion in the bar

Sophie has dated the hunk for six months according to The Sun but the post was the first time they have gone public with their relationship.

The couple met in February while they were volunteering in Uganda for a charity which helps children.

Diags split with Fran back in 2017 when they had an acrimonious split after she initially joined TOWIE as his housemate.

She had starred on The Only Way Is Essex for seven series and was known for her relationship with Diags. They had dated for three years, before confirming their split in September 2017.

New love: It comes after Diags found love over the summer after we went Instagram official with Sophie Ernoult and shared a loved-up snap

Sources claimed at the time that Fran 'felt lost' in the wake of their break up and was left upset after being sent messages alleging Diags had brought girls back to the apartment she had shared with him.

Insiders revealed at the time: 'They don't talk at all now that they've split... she is utterly heartbroken it's come from him and can't stop crying.

'She never had any idea he was 'that' guy. They were best friends and best friends don't do that to each other.'
- A fierce battle between the South-Eastern Europe countries broke on Monday, September 28few days over the Nagorno-Karabakh region

- At least 100 people have been killed including civilians, and hundreds more injured

- Azerbaijan is reportedly Muslim and Armenia majority Christian elements which seems to have cast the conflict in religious terms

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A decades-old conflict in the Caucasus region of South-Eastern Europe has seen fierce fighting between Armenia and Azerbaijan forces from Monday 28, with dozens of deaths being reported.

A map of the South-Eastern Europe countries. Photo: BBC.

Source: UGC

This was after Armenia announced on Sunday, September 27, it was declaring martial law, mobilising its army and ordering civilians to take shelter.

At the heart of the conflict is a dispute over the control of the mountainous region of Nagorno-Karabakh which has been internationally recognised as part of Azerbaijan.

Armenia claimed Azerbaijan had launched a military operation inside the breakaway region with the latter claiming it attacked only in response to Armenian shelling.

At least 100 people have been killed including civilians, and hundreds more are said to be injured.

In a joint appeal, Russian President Vladimir Putin, US President Donald Trump and Macron urged the two sides to return to negotiations aimed at resolving their longstanding territorial dispute.

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Azerbaijani leader Ilham Aliyev have both rejected the idea of holding talks.

TUKO.co.ke explains the long unresolved conflict between the two countries.

Servicemen of Karabakh's Defence Army wave while riding in the back of a truck.

Source: Getty Images

The background of the Nagorno-Karabakh region

The Nagorno-Karabakh has been recognised internationally as Azerbaijans territory but the majority of its population is Armenian who resisted Azerbaijani rule for more than a century.

However, the region has been controlled by ethnic Armenians since a war ended in 1994 where tens of thousands of people died during that war and a million others forced to leave their homes.

In 1991 the region declared independence and since then it had ruled itself  with Armenian support  as the unrecognised Republic of Artsakh.

The mountainous, landlocked region inside the borders of Azerbaijan, Nagorno-Karabakh is reported to have been a source of dispute since before the creation of the Soviet Union.

Tensions were suppressed when both Armenia and Azerbaijan were Soviet states, but they re-emerged as the cold war ended and Communist party control of the bloc dissolved.

However, Armenia and Azerbaijan never signed a peace treaty and the conflict remained unresolved, frequently seeing violent clashes for the past three decades

International mediation efforts led by Russia, France and the United States have made little headway.

The border between the two was considered one of the most militarised in the world, Laurence Broers, the Caucasus programme director at Conciliation Resources, a peace-building group told The Guardian.

We have a situation where we have trench warfare going on in Europe more than 100 years after the first world war, he said.

In some areas, the lines are so close they can hear and potentially talk to one another," added the director.

Azerbaijan is reportedly Muslim and Armenia is majority Christian, and some elements on both sides seek to cast the conflict in religious terms, though analysts say this angle was exaggerated.

Reason for the current conflict

Fighting periodically breaks out around Nagorno-Karabakhs borders, often deadly, notably in 2016 when the two countries fought an inconclusive five-day war that killed over 100 people.

Intense skirmishes were fought again in July 2020 along the border.

But independent analysts and civilians on the ground say the current fighting is far heavier than at any time since the 1990s and that the risks of a full-scale war are much higher.

Armenia and Azerbaijan have accused each other of starting the current round of fighting and experts have said it's not clear what triggered it now.

However, many warned it had been brewing since the skirmishes in July.

Armenian Deputy Prime Minister Tigran Avinyan wrote on Facebook that 1,280 Azerbaijani troops had been killed and 2,700 wounded since Sunday

Both sides have issued claims of heavy casualties inflicted on their opponent.

Why does it matter?

There are fears that the intense fighting could escalate into a full-scale war between Armenia and Azerbaijan that could pull in major regional players, in particular Turkey and Russia.

In addition to the risk of a humanitarian crisis for Armenia and Azerbaijan, all-out war could also threaten what is an important energy corridor.

Turkey is already becoming increasingly involved in the conflict and on Tuesday, September 29, Armenia accused it of shooting down an Armenian fighter jet.

How has the world reacted?

The clashes have spurred a flurry of diplomacy to defuse the reignited tensions between majority Christian Armenia and mainly Muslim Azerbaijan.

Russia, an ally of Armenia, called for an immediate ceasefire and another regional power, Turkey, said it would support Azerbaijan, its traditional ally.

China meanwhile urged both sides to show restraint, while France, which has a large Armenian community, called for an immediate ceasefire and dialogue.

Iran, which borders both Azerbaijan and Armenia, offered to broker peace talks, while UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said he was extremely concerned by the clashes.

Speaking at the Vatican, Pope Francis said he was praying for peace between the two countries, urging them to accomplish concrete deeds of goodwill and fraternity to reach a peaceful solution through dialogue.

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This is me coming to you with a heavy heart. My friends left after I got cancer - Esther Nyambura. On TUKO TV.

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Frances health minister has threatened to close bars and ban family gatherings in Paris as figures showed Covid-19 patients fill about one-third of the intensive care units in the city.

ICUs in other regions of France are also filling up with virus patients, as more than two months of increasing infections have spread to the countrys elderly and vulnerable populations.

But while other countries have imposed localised lockdowns to fight rebounding cases, Frances government is taking pains to avoid that and adopting relatively modest localised measures instead.

Health minister Olivier Veran warned that the government could classify Paris and nearby suburbs as a maximum alert zone starting on Monday, leading to measures such as shutting bars and banning family parties or other big gatherings.

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He did not set a limit on group sizes or indicate what the alert zone designation might mean for the French Open, currently under way on Pariss western edge and open to up to 1,000 spectators per day.

Amid daily protests against virus restrictions on French cafes, Mr Veran said restaurants might be able to stay open if they impose tighter rules.

The maximum alert level means that the risk of hospital saturation is very high, Mr Veran said, as authorities unveiled region-by-region data showing that the number of patients in intensive care in some areas is rising faster than the government predicted a month ago.

The Paris region looks especially worrying, with 30-35% of ICU beds now occupied by virus patients, and hospitals delaying some scheduled surgeries to make space for Covid cases, the health minister said.

Paris is now registering nearly 200 positive cases per 100,000 people per week, and more than 100 positive cases per 100,000 elderly people.

The situation in the capital is starting to resemble that of the Mediterranean city of Marseille and the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe, where all restaurants and bars were shut down after the government put them at the maximum alert level last week.

Mr Veran said there are signs that the infection growth is slowing in Marseille, Bordeaux and Nice. But he said it is too early to lift restrictions, and that France overall is still in the phase of an aggravation of the situation.

France has been recording more than 10,000 new confirmed cases a day for the past two weeks, and has reported a total of 31,956 virus-related deaths, among the highest tolls in Europe.
"What I worry about is that the politics or the financial gain may drive earlier release than is scientifically appropriate," Ranney said. Loading Pfizer will not be anywhere near completion of its clinical trial by the end of October, according to a company spokeswoman. When Bourla referred to a "conclusive readout" next month, she said, he meant that it's possible the outside board of experts monitoring the trial would have by that date found promising signs that the vaccine works. Pfizer's trial blueprints allow the panel to look at the data after just 32 volunteers have become ill with COVID-19. Even if most of those cases were in the placebo group, regulators at the Food and Drug Administration would likely need data from more volunteers before making a decision on authorisation, according to people familiar with the government's vaccine approval process.

Possible, but unlikely? The FDA has also told vaccine-makers that they will need to track at least half of the patients' safety data for two months before the agency will grant emergency access. That would push the earliest date into at least November. In a statement, Pfizer said that it would continue to collect data on trial volunteers' health for two years, and that it planned to submit two months of safety data to the agency "to help inform FDA's ultimate determination of authorisation or approval." In public interviews, government health officials have refuted the October date. Both Dr Moncef Slaoui, the chief scientific adviser to Operation Warp Speed, the federal effort that has awarded billions of dollars to vaccine-makers, and Dr Anthony S. Fauci, the nation's top infectious disease doctor, have said October was unlikely. Pfizer's leading competitors in the vaccine race, Moderna and AstraZeneca, have been more vague about timing, saying they expect something before the end of the year. In a recent interview, Moderna's chief executive, Stephane Bancel, said: "October is possible, because very few things in life are impossible." The better word, he said, is "unlikely."

"They will not get approved before the election," said Ronny Gal, an analyst with the Wall Street firm Bernstein. "The timing just doesn't work." Trials 'built for speed' One key to understanding how Pfizer vaulted to first place in the vaccine race is found in its trial blueprints, known as a protocol. Even though Moderna and Pfizer began their trials on the same day, Pfizer's is "built for speed," as one Wall Street firm, SVB Leerink, described it. Participants in Pfizer's trial are given two doses of a vaccine 21 days apart, whereas those in Moderna's wait 28 days in between. Pfizer begins looking for sick volunteers seven days after the second dose, whereas Moderna does so at 14 days. And Pfizer's plan allows an outside review panel to look at early data after just 32 volunteers have become ill with COVID-19. Moderna's plan doesn't allow for a first peek until 53 cases.

Some experts have speculated that Pfizer's volunteers happen to be in places where the virus is spreading quickly, making it more likely that they would have been exposed to the virus and put the vaccine to the test. While Moderna's trial is being conducted only in the United States, Pfizer's is international, with locations set up or planned in the United States, Brazil, Turkey and Argentina. In Argentina, which has seen a surge of coronavirus infections since August, 33,000 volunteers quickly signed up for about 4500 slots, said Dr Fernando Polack, the head researcher of the Pfizer study that is being carried out at the Hospital Military Central in Buenos Aires. We didn't take money so that we don't have any restrictions. Because I can imagine, if you take money, then you have to  a little bit  to explain about your pricing. Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla "We have a lot of years of experience in these kinds of trials, and we've never seen these numbers before," Polack said in an interview. He declined to comment on whether he was aware of any COVID-19 cases among volunteers. Across all of its trial sites, Pfizer said, 24,000 volunteers have received the second dose of the vaccine, more than half of the 44,000 that are expected to enroll.

Despite Pfizer's confident pronouncements, a win is not guaranteed. Around 15 per cent of vaccines in late-stage trials do not make it to approval. Dr Mark Goldberger, an infectious disease expert at the Global Antibiotic Research and Development Partnership and a former FDA official, noted that the agency has scheduled a meeting of outside experts to discuss experimental coronavirus vaccines on October 22. Bragging rights "It would take an enormous effort to get the data by then," he said. "It's within the realm of possibility, but there are things that could trip them up  a manufacturing issue, a safety issue, the efficacy is not as good as they expect." Taking first place in the vaccine race isn't just about bragging rights, although the public-relations boost from developing a vaccine that could liberate the world from a deadly pandemic cannot be overstated.

Gal, the Bernstein analyst, said that Pfizer could win a significant commercial edge by taking control of the early market for a coronavirus vaccine. Unlike Johnson & Johnson and AstraZeneca, which have said they will not profit from their products during the pandemic, Pfizer has made no such promises. It also has not taken federal money to develop its vaccine, instead signing a $US1.95 billion deal to sell the first 100 million doses of its vaccine to the US government. Bourla has said that the company didn't accept federal investment in its research and development so that the government wouldn't be able to control the price of the vaccine later on. Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla: Unlike Johnson & Johnson and AstraZeneca, which have said they will not profit from their products during the pandemic, his company has made no such promises. Credit:AP "We didn't take money so that we don't have any restrictions," Bourla said on September 16 at an event organised by the investment bank JP Morgan. "Because I can imagine, if you take money, then you have to  a little bit  to explain about your pricing." While smaller companies like Moderna have already benefited financially by rising share prices, Pfizer has not seen a similar stock bump. Gal has estimated the initial wave of vaccination as an $US18 billion market. "So to the extent that they are able to capture any material amount of it, even for a company like Pfizer, it's not a small thing," he said.

Pfizer also has more at stake when it comes to doing business with the federal government. Moderna does not sell any approved products, but Pfizer has a broad portfolio of vaccines and drugs. The federal government is both a major customer  paying for treatments and vaccines through Medicare  and makes weighty decisions about everything from drug approvals to drug-pricing policy. Even as Trump has urged the speedy approval of a vaccine, he has employed harsh rhetoric against the industry. Earlier this month, he issued an executive order aimed at lowering the cost of some drugs by tying them to prices in other countries. The measure was strongly opposed  and is likely to be challenged in court  by the drug industry. Earlier this month, the president singled out Pfizer for special praise, describing it as a "great company," and saying he had spoken to Bourla, who was a "great guy." Bourla, who has spent much of the past month giving interviews to media outlets and appearing on industry panels, has insisted the company's accelerated timeline had nothing to do with politics. "We have politicians or journalists speaking about efficacy or safety about medicines which, of course, is not appropriate," Bourla said at the company's investor day on September 15. "The scientists should be having these discussions." Ultimately, Pfizer's strategy may be about managing the public's expectations, said Brandon Barford, a partner at Beacon Policy Advisors, a research firm. Pfizer could now explain any delay past October by "saying, 'We're being extra cautious.' And you get kudos for it."
The East Falls warehouse where Philadelphia's voting machines are stored. On Wednesday, The Inquirer reported that a laptop and several memory sticks used to program voting machines were stolen. Read more

More lapses in security and record-keeping surfaced Thursday at the warehouse where Philadelphias voting machines are stored, prompting city officials to pledge  for the second time in less than a week  that they would beef up security amid an investigation into the theft of a laptop and USB drives from the facility.

A lack of surveillance footage from inside the warehouse has stymied investigators seeking to track down the thief. No cameras had been installed there despite an earlier request from employees to do so, according to sources familiar with the matter who were not authorized to discuss it publicly.

And while the city had vowed Wednesday to enhance security at the site, a reporter with WHYYs Billy Penn entered the warehouse unhindered the next morning and spent several minutes walking among rows of voting machines before employees noticed and asked him to leave. He later posted a video to Twitter.

Meanwhile, the sources said, an ongoing inspection of those machines, launched after the theft to ensure that none had been compromised, has turned up more than 20 so far with serial numbers on their seals that do not match records kept by elections officials. They blamed the discrepancy on a logging error and do not believe it is evidence of tampering.

With those missteps mounting, city officials hastened to assure the public that they have every confidence that the integrity of the election had not been compromised by those developments  even as President Donald Trumps campaign seized on them to sow doubt.

A spokesperson for Mayor Jim Kenney, responding to the video posted by the Billy Penn reporter, said Thursday that an around-the-clock police presence had now been stationed outside the warehouse and strict log-in procedures for those entering or exiting the building had been put in place. The mayor had pledged a day earlier to make all police resources available to find who stole the missing technology.

So far, police have discovered no evidence to suggest the thefts were related to the election, said sources briefed on the status of their probe. Aside from the missing laptop and USB drives, some smaller personal items were taken and stray objects appeared to have been moved around and left behind by the intruder, they said.

The employee whose laptop was stolen, an onsite technician for the company that supplies the voting machines, noted its theft on Monday and reported it to his superiors, the sources said. But it was not until two days later  once elections employees noticed the USB drives were also missing  that the matter was reported to police.

Nick Custodio  a deputy to Lisa Deeley, chair of the city commissioners, who oversee elections  declined to explain that apparent delay Thursday, citing the ongoing probe.

Still, a Trump campaign staffer tweeted a news story about the thefts and video of Thursdays incursion into the warehouse by the reporter.

Unbelievable! the staffer, Mike Roman, wrote. No security for voting machines How can we trust the results now?

Roman  a Republican operative known for his role promoting a video of the New Black Panther Party standing outside a Philadelphia polling location during the 2008 election  falsely claimed on Twitter earlier in the week that Trump poll watchers had been turned away from city polling locations.

By Thursday afternoon, even some Democrats began to show signs of worry that the continued developments could needlessly hinder voter confidence.

Gov. Tom Wolf said state officials were monitoring the situation and noted during a news conference in Harrisburg that he was obviously concerned, while, in Philadelphia, Bob Brady, chairman of the Democratic City Committee, balked when he learned the warehouse remained at least partially unsecured Thursday.

Thats ridiculous, he said. They have got to fix that.  I hope theyre up to the task. Id hate to see something happen to ruin this election because of ineptness on our part.

He added he did not believe that would happen.

Meanwhile, police pressed forward quietly in their efforts to identify who stole the missing laptop and USB drives.

Sources briefed on the status of the investigation said a gym next door to warehouse reported having asked a suspicious man to leave the business Sunday, hours before the laptop is believed to have been taken.

The gym shares an access point with the voting machine storage facility in the privately owned complex in which both are housed. There were no signs of forced entry into the building and police believe the intruder may have entered through windows in the gym that were left open on the day of the theft, those sources said.

The laptop and memory sticks remain missing, but elections officials remain confident that neither could be used to interfere with voting Nov. 3.

In a statement Wednesday, Custodio said the laptop had been disabled remotely as soon as the theft was discovered. A spokesperson for the manufacturer of the voting machines said the USB drives are encrypted to prevent tampering and specifically matched with individual voting machines.

In an abundance of caution, Custodio said Thursday, elections staff have wiped, reprogrammed and retested all machines whose seals were found with mismatched serial numbers when compared with the warehouses records to ensure that they will be secure come Election Day.

Chris Deluzio, an elections integrity expert and policy director of the University of Pittsburghs Institute for Cyber Law, Policy and Security, said that with those precautions in place he doubted the machines could be interfered with on Nov. 3. All Pennsylvania voting machines have paper ballot backups to the electronic tabulation.

Whatever new threat factor is introduced because someone got their hands on the thumb drives or the laptop, I think the existence of individual paper ballots is still a strong bulwark against technical errors or hacks that might affect the machines, Deluzio said.

His bigger fear is how the theft will be publicly construed by partisans, political campaigns or foreign actors seeking to build mistrust in the system.

Theres going to be lots of bad information out there, Deluzio said. Theres going to be lots of stuff  to make [people] feel like their votes dont count, when in fact nothing could be further from the truth."

Staff writer Mike Newall contributed to this article.
The first foundations are installed by Deepwater Wind in the nation's first offshore wind farm construction project are next to a floating construction crane on the waters of the Atlantic Ocean off Block Island, R.I., on July 27, 2015. (Stephan Savoia/AP Photo)

Trumps East Coast Energy Ban to Include Offshore Wind

Offshore wind stymied from Florida to Virginia as Trump bans all energy projects

President Donald Trumps recent decision to ban the development of energy projects off the Atlantic coast of Florida, Georgia, and North and South Carolina will stop the development of oil and gas projects for a period of ten years. The ban will also include offshore wind energy installations, a spokesperson for the Interior Departments Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) told The Epoch Times.

Trumps order would withdraw certain areas of the American outer continental shelf from leasing disposition and prevents consideration of these areas for any leasing for purposes of exploration, development, or production, the White House said in a Sept. 8 statement. It applies for a 10-year period between July 1, 2022, and June 30, 2032.

The spokesperson, Stephen Boutwell , said the ban would affect traditional sources of energy such as oil and gas as well renewables.

The withdrawal includes all energy leasing, including conventional and renewable energy, beginning on July 1, 2022, Boutwell said in an email to The Epoch Times. No new leases will be issued offshore North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida, for a 10-year period beginning July 1, 2022.

However, the ban will not apply to existing leases in the areas withdrawn.

At a 2020 electoral campaign rally last week in Newport News, Virginia, Trump said that he would extend the moratorium further up the coast to cover the states of North Carolina and Virginia. The BOEM declined to comment on leases off the coasts that the president mentioned until Trump issues a Presidential Memorandum on the matter.

President Donald Trump waves as he concludes his remarks during a campaign rally at Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport in Newport News, Va., on Sept. 25, 2020. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

Criticism

While the crowd at Newport News reacted positively to Trumps announcement, National Ocean Industries Association President Erik Milito criticized the Atlantic energy moratorium.

Americans are trying to climb back from a historic economic downturn, and todays announcement places additional offshore energy development out of reach and locks away much needed investment and jobs, Milito said.

An offshore moratorium that stretches from the Eastern Gulf of Mexico to the top of North Carolinas offshore areas needlessly jeopardizes our nations long-term economic and national security. Time and time again, we have seen how domestic energy moratoriums only lead to outsourcing of energy production and economic growth as countries such as Russia happily wait in the wings to make up our domestic energy supply gap, he said.

Milito was referring to a recent economic impact study on wind energy by consultants Wood Mackenzie. The study forecasts that prospective 2020 or 2021 wind power leases off the coasts of the Carolinas could have resulted in the installation of 11.5 GW of potential wind power capacity. This in turn could have resulted in the creation of 37,000 jobs in the construction phase, with almost $3 billion in wages and salaries, according to the report.

Without a clear and stable regulatory horizon, Milito said, interest and investment in developing offshore wind resources will be diminished.
Somewhere along the way, Donald Trump and his team looked at nearly four decades of presidential debates and decided on an unconventional approach. Going back to at least 1984, incumbents running for a second term have looked laconic during the first debate against their challenger.

Ronald Reagan looked tired against Walter Mondale, raising questions about his age. He bounced back in the follow-up. In 2004, George W. Bush admitted that he got his butt kicked. More recently, Mitt Romney swamped Barack Obama.

After four years of a cossetted, deferential lifestyle, rarely challenged in public, presidents find themselves in a bubble, unwilling to take a challenger seriously. Conversely, opponents have usually navigated a competitive primary with multiple debates. One is in fighting form; the other is not.

Perhaps Trump said, That wont be me. Ill go after Sleepy Joe.

Can you say overcompensation?

For all his many faults, Trumps four years have hardly been characterized as a moment of quiet deference. To the contrary, hes sought out dustups with the media and produced mutinies on an epic scale (who will be the next former staffer to cut an ad for Republican Voters Against Trump?). He revels in the conflict. He enjoys taking the fight to an opponent. If he doesnt have an opponent, he creates one.

So, consider it rather ironic that the president who suggested that his opponent was using performance-enhancing drugs (you know, because Biden is in some sort of cognitive decline and if hes doing well he must be on something) was the one who appeared like he was having a case of roid rage for 90 minutes.

From the moment he stepped on the stage, Trump was scowling, his facial hue was more red than orange. He rarely faced the camera  surprising for someone so well-versed with television.

Instead, he glared at Biden throughout. When not glaring at Biden, Trumps fury was turned toward moderator Chris Wallace who struggled to get control of a debate that went off the rails within the first few minutes. But glares and scowls dont translate too well on TV  especially in a split-screen format that presidential debates invite.

Story continues

So, that basically explains what unfolded Tuesday night. A president feeling unconstrained, always on the attack, always interrupting, never hesitating to go below the belt in service of a win  most notable when Biden talked about his son Beau, an Iraq veteran whom he lost to cancer. Trump turned it around, ignoring Beau and bringing up (for the second or third time in the night) Bidens more problematic son, Hunter, he of the drug troubles and the questionable financial deals.

But this is one of several places where Trumps apparent need to make amped-up personal attacks undermined a strategic focus that might have served him better: How different things might have been if, instead of cheap shots against Hunter Biden, Trump reminded viewers (and voters) of his administrations (not altogether poor) record against opioids?

Meanwhile, as social media noted that Biden never raised impeachment (remember that brief moment when it was the biggest story of 2020?). But, as Biden might say, heres the deal: The former vice president essentially reimpeached Trump over his incompetent handling of the COVID crisis. He was most effective, not in telling Trump to shut up, man (as satisfying as that might have seemed for many viewers), but in repeating the stark stats: the number of deaths, the number of infected  4% of the worlds population, 20% of the worlds coronavirus deaths. Cold facts can be far more brutal than hot posturing. But ignore not the kicker: It is what it is because you are who you are.

By constantly dwelling on Hunters service on the board of the Ukraine company Burisma, Trump sounded like he was the one stuck in a past that few Americans have time for in a time of COVID. Meanwhile, charges that Hunter took money from the mayor of Moscow  what was that about? Too often, Trump speaks in a clipped shorthand that fails to put in context his precise allegation. If youre a Fox News viewer, maybe you got it. If youre not, you didnt. In short, he had barbs for his enemy, but precious little for the people at home.

Biden got combative when necessary, but in a critical way, he beat Trump on Trumps own turf, the aforementioned cool medium of television. Contrary to the dementia slurs, Biden seemed scrupulously aware of his surroundings. Sure, he turned to Trump and acted dismissive of him. Sure, he called him a clown. But when it most counted, Bidens body language focused on the audience at home. Rather than go down the rabbit hole of how much money Don Jr., Eric and Ivanka have made since Trump became president (SPOILER: Its lots), Biden shut it down. He offered both a heartfelt defense of his sons struggles with addiction and a declaration trained directly into the camera, This is not about my family or his family. Its about YOUR family.

Indeed, several times, when Trump went off on a rant, Biden returned to the camera, smiled a great toothy grin (yes, the best veneers that money can buy) and acted like he wasnt taking it too seriously.

As Napoleon (or was it Lee Atwater?) said, Never get in the way of your opponent when hes busy destroying himself. Biden didnt need Trumps disturbing stand back and stand by wink to the Proud Boys, a white supremacist group, to pass the which one on this stage looks more presidential test, but it perfectly settled the question.



ABOUT THE WRITER

Robert A. George is a member of the New York Daily News Editorial Board.



2020 New York Daily News

Visit New York Daily News at www.nydailynews.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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Wildlife experts fear two red and blue cockatoos spotted in Sydney's south may have been the victims of animal cruelty.

The brightly coloured birds were photographed at a home in Bundeena near Sydney National Park.

Homeowner Rochelle Luke snaped a pic of the animals when they landed on her porch in search of food.

The photos were later posted to the Find My Australia page on Tuesday, sparking outrage among animal lovers.

'I'm still not sure why this is happening or who would do such a thing,' the post was captioned.

A cockatoo with red feathers (left) and another with blue feathers (right) came for food at a woman's home in Bundeena near the Royal National Park

'I also had a similar experience a couple of years ago coming across a pink cockatoo in the Menai area.'

The page also included pictures of a bright pink cockatoo that was photographed in Menai in 2017, which is not far from where the Bundeena cockatoos were found.

Taronga Conservation Society research scientist Dr John Martin said the birds most likely had their feathers dyed which he described as 'terrible behaviour'.

'It is more likely this comes down to nefarious human behaviour. The colour is completely covering the cockatoo. For it to be an accident is extremely unlikely,' Dr Martin told Nine News.

'If there is a situation where you have birds that are a nuisance to you, you should contact local council or Parks and Wildlife and come up with a peaceful resolution for your conflict.

'Humans behaving badly is not the answer to cockatoos behaving badly.'

Photos of the red and blue cockatoos were posted to the Find My Australia page on Tuesday, sparking outrage among animal lovers. Taronga research scientist Dr John Martin said it was 'terrible behaviour' that people most likely dyed the cockatoos' feathers

It is illegal to catch cockatoos without a permit regardless of the reasons.

Dr Martin runs the Clever Cockie Project, which researches cockatoo behaviour by ethically tagging the birds and using behaviour reports from the community.

He encouraged people who see cockatoos coated in dye to contact the Clever Cockie Project.

Cockatoos with blue, green, pink and yellow colouring were previously spotted in North Bondi, Randwick, Watsons Bay, Rose Bay and Vaucluse in Sydney's eastern suburbs in April 2016.

The page also included pictures of a bright pink cockatoo (left) that was photographed in Menai in 2017, which is not far from where the Bundeena cockatoos were found

The RSPCA and the Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service said they have received no reports about the red and blue cockatoos but encouraged anyone with information to come forward.

'We haven't had any reports of dead cockatoos in the Bundeena area, so whatever the birds have been coated in doesn't seem to be poisoning them,' a WIRES spokesman said.

Sutherland Shire Council also said they have not held any events using dye, furthering suspicions that the cockatoo colouring was deliberate.
The total number of coronavirus cases in Wyoming grew by 135 on Thursday, with the number of confirmed cases rising by 124 and the number of probable cases rising by 11, according to the Wyoming Department of Healths daily update.

There are now more than 1,000 active confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state for the first time. The state set a new high mark for hospitalized coronavirus patients Thursday with 27. (The previous high was 24, last set Wednesday.)

Wyoming set new highs Thursday for its 10-day averages in both confirmed cases (98.1 new cases per day) and total cases (113.9 new cases per day), and the state continues to set new records for confirmed active cases (1,008) and total active cases (1,177).

There are new confirmed cases in Albany (11), Big Horn (four), Campbell (17), Carbon (two), Converse (eight), Fremont (eight), Goshen, Johnson (two), Laramie (seven), Lincoln (eight), Natrona (21), Park (seven), Platte (three), Sheridan (seven), Sublette (two), Sweetwater (three) and Teton (14) counties. The department subtracted one confirmed case from Uinta Countys total.

Sixty-two new coronavirus recoveries were also announced: 49 confirmed and 13 probable.

Numbers to know

Active cases: 1,008 (1,177 including probable cases)

Hospitalized patients: 27 (up three from Wednesday)

Deaths: 53 (three this week, three this month)

Total cases: 6,083 (5,170 confirmed, 913 probable)

Total recoveries: 4,853 (4,109 confirmed, 744 probable)

Total tests: 163,788 (64,127 from state lab, 99,661 from other labs)

Are we trending up or down?

The states 10-day average in confirmed cases is 98.1 per day. That number is up 5.9 from a day ago, up 21.6 from a week ago and up 70.8 from a month ago.

The states 10-day average in total cases is 113.9 per day. That number is up 6.2 from a day ago, up 22.6 from a week ago and up 81.6 from a month ago.

The states number of confirmed active cases is 1,008. That number is up 72 from a day ago, up 267 from a week ago and up 525 from a month ago.

The states number of total active cases is 1,177. That number is up 70 from a day ago, up 286 from a week ago and up 558 from a month ago.

Where are the cases coming from?

Albany (165), Natrona (152) and Campbell (89) counties have had the most confirmed cases over the past 10 days.

Niobrara (50%), Platte (48.1%) and Weston (43.3%) counties have had the highest percentage of their confirmed cases come from the past 10 days.

How do we compare nationally?

Total cases: third fewest (sixth fewest in the last seven days)

Cases per 100,000 residents: seventh fewest (15th most in the last seven days)

Deaths: fewest (tied for fewest in the last seven days)

Deaths per 100,000 residents: second fewest (tied for fewest in the last seven days)

All numbers according to the New York Times, which includes probable counts where they exist.

Cases in Wyoming by county (probable in parentheses)





Albany: 494 (95)

Big Horn: 57 (7)

Campbell: 306 (35)

Carbon: 201 (32)

Converse: 102 (43)

Crook: 40 (7)

Fremont: 666 (85)

Goshen: 94 (13)

Hot Springs: 33 (5)

Johnson: 29 (13)

Laramie: 551 (174)

Lincoln: 183 (33)

Natrona: 526 (100)

Niobrara: 2 (2)

Park: 233 (19)

Platte: 27 (11)

Sheridan: 231 (73)

Sublette: 90 (27)

Sweetwater: 323 (19)

Teton: 558 (33)

Uinta: 287 (69)

Washakie: 107 (9)

Weston: 30 (9)

Deaths in Wyoming by county





Fremont: 14

Washakie: 6

Laramie: 4

Natrona: 4

Sheridan: 4

Big Horn: 2

Carbon: 2

Park: 2

Goshen: 2

Sweetwater: 2

Uinta: 2

Campbell: 1

Johnson: 1

Lincoln: 1

Platte: 1

Sublette: 1

Teton: 1

Definitions





Probable cases

are defined by officials as close contacts of lab-confirmed cases with symptoms consistent with COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus.





A patient is considered fully recovered

when there is resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications and there is improvement in respiratory symptoms (e.g. cough, shortness of breath) for 72 hours AND at least 7 days have passed since symptoms first appeared, according to the Wyoming Department of Health.





Total cases are determined by adding together the number of confirmed and probable cases. Total recoveries

are determined by adding together the number of confirmed and probable recoveries.





Confirmed active cases are determined by subtracting the number of deaths and confirmed recoveries from the number of confirmed cases. Total active cases are determined by subtracting the number of deaths and total recoveries from the number of total cases.Health Department data(tncms-asset)f0608226-6ece-11ea-bd05-00163ec2aa77[2](/tncms-asset)
The Ministry of Information, Ghana Health Service, and Partners have provided a one-day workshop for the Eastern Regional House of Chiefs. The workshop was chaired by His Royal Majesty, Okyehene Osagyefo Amotia Ofori Panin, and the President of the Eastern Regional House of Chiefs and Paramount Chief of Akyem Abuakwa.



In his opening remarks, Okyehene Osagyefo Amotia Ofori Panin on behalf of his chiefs thanked the President H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akuffo Addo for his leadership and management of Covid-19 and the measures put in place to slow down the spread of COVID 19 in Ghana.



Okyehene Osagyefo Amotia Ofori Panin recounted some of the mitigating measures put in place by His Excellency, the President of the Republic as the COVID-19 alleviation package which includes the initial preparatory allocation of $100 million, provision of fifty percent (50%) basic salary for frontline health workers for six months, wavier of income tax for six months, free electricity, free water, and financial stimulus packages for medium and small-scale enterprises among others.



Further, Okyehene Osagyefo Amotia Ofori Panin remarked that the pandemic has brought about the new normal which has affected lives and gatherings such as funerals and religious activities.



Today we all have to wear a face mask every day, practice social distancing and good hand hygiene at all times he noted



Osagyefo promised to lead public education in the Eastern Region and encouraged his colleagues to replicate this in their various areas to promote community ownership of the safety protocols.



The Eastern Regional Minister, Hon. Eric Kwakye Darfour noted that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused serious human suffering and challenged the foundation of our society. This situation has necessitated measures and response by government and non-state actors to support the citizenry. He said the governments new strategy is to enhance greater community participation to deepen awareness on how to sustain adherence to the COVID-19 safety protocols.



The workshop was led by the Director of Health Promotion at the Ghana Health Service and Leader of Risk Communication and Social Mobilization for Ghana's COVID-19 Response Team Dr. Da costa Aboagye whose presentation focused on COVID-19 preventive protocols, Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs), stigma, Health Promotion, and Prevention.



He said although COVID-19 statistics in Ghana looks encouraging in terms of the rate of recoveries, low death rate, and declined active cases, it is important to sustain the gains.



Dr. Da Costa noted that Ghana cannot be complacent with adherence to safety protocols. The wearing of a mask is reducing by day, social distancing is not being strictly followed, and the frequency of handwashing has also reduced significantly. This picture gives as a cause for worry.



He, therefore, charged the Chiefs and Queen mothers to own the safety protocols, educate their subjects on COVID-19 and increase public perception on the importance of continued use of facemasks.



Dr. Da Costa further posited that the pandemic has not left us yet and there is no vaccine to protect us against the virus. The current solution lies in adherence to safety protocols.



Touching on stigma, Dr. Da Costa said the current COVID-19 outbreak has provoked social stigma and discriminatory behaviors against infected persons, communities, families, etc. and the impact is that, it will essentially drive people to hide the disease to avoid discrimination, prevent people from seeking healthcare early, discourage healthy behaviors and affect the mental health of infected people.



Dr. Da Costa urged the chiefs and opinion leaders to do their part through all forms of engagement with various groups in their catchment areas with education on COVID 19 while also providing leadership to help fight this pandemic through community-based education.



Speaking to Citi FM after the program, Dr. Da Costa said Government will focus on a health promotion and prevention program dubbed the wellness program as a method for early detection of diseases with the aim of institutionalizing 'prevention is better than cure in our health system to support curative healthcare delivery.



Dr. Da Costa said the program will provide a platform for every Ghanaian to at least check their health status once a year. This program will help profile Ghanaians for the early detection of diseases.



This will also help to reduce the high disease burden cost of NHIS.



The media should help educate and encourage Ghanaians to do regular exercise; to eat our local foods as well as eat more fruits and vegetables, have enough rest, and avoid stress" he urged.



Leading the Ministry of Information delegation was the Deputy Minister for Information Hon. Pius Enam Hadzide and in his address requested the revered chiefs to lead the rollout of the community engagement and risk education strategy to deepen awareness of COVID-19 in sustaining the safety protocols. He said government indeed appreciate the partnership with traditional authority in national development agenda particularly their support in the enforcement of the restrictions that were imposed during the lockdown period.



Hon. Pius Enam Hadzide intimated that the governments strategy was anchored on 5 main pillars.



Limit importation of COVID-19 Cases

Contain community spread to the barest minimum

Provide optimum care for affected persons

Limit the impact of COVID-19 on the socioeconomic life of Ghanaians

Deepen our self-reliance and increase production capacity



He said measures deployed by the government to fight the virus were necessary for the interest of public health. He intimated that the rate of recoveries has increased tremendously, as 29th September 2020 confirmed cases were 46,482 with a total of 45,651recoveries making 98% recovery rate. Active cases were 530 and 301 deaths.



Around the world, it appears there is a second wave so we must continue to strengthen our country's response to COVID-19 pandemic to minimize the risk and negative impact posed by the disease. He argued.



In his concluding remarks, the Deputy Minister for Information Hon. Pius Enam Hadzide noted that despite the success in the recovery rate we need to guard against further community spread by strictly adhering to the safety protocols. He thanked the chiefs for their instrumental role in the fight against COVID 19.





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.

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A war has broken out in a Cornish seaside town as locals clash with 'scruffy' street traders who do hair braids and henna tattoos.

The hair and ink artists have been plying their trade near the harbour of Padstow in Cornwall for decades to capture tourism income.

But locals in the upmarket resort - known as Padstein for the influence of celebrity chef Rick Stein - are demanding they are booted out as they are not in keeping with the surroundings.

The spat has spiralled to include local Conservative MP Scott Mann, who has raised the issue in parliament.

Hair and ink artists (pictured: Cher Ricard and Natasha Rowley) have been plying their trade near the harbour of Padstow in Cornwall for decades to capture tourism income

A war has broken out amongst the Cornish locals and the traders, who say a 'vigilante hate group' has launched a targeted campaign against them

Since lockdown was lifted, several of the hair braiders claim they are now being harassed and verbally abused on a regular basis.

They have even labelled a section of the local community a 'vigilante hate group' for what they described as a sustained and targeted campaign.

The divide has now reached an all-time high and has even led to calls from MP Mr Mann for the traders to be removed.

He described them this week as 'so-called businesses' but several of the traders have responded calling for a truce and a better understanding of what they do.

During the recent staycation boom, they also claim they have been more popular than ever with tourists.

Tourists have flocked to seaside towns like Padstow, where celebrity chef Rick Stein runs The Seafood restaurant, Rick Stein's Seafood Bar and Fishmongers, and Rick Stein's Cafe.

Healso runs a fish and chip shop in the town.

The upmarket Cornish town of Padstow (pictured) is known as 'Padstein' for the influence of celebrity chef Rick Stein who runs a restaurant in the area

And despite claiming to bring further money and footfall into the town, the traders claim a 'hateful' closed facebook group has been plotting ways to remove them altogether.

Natasha Rowley, 47, said they have consistently proved they had done nothing wrong.

She said: 'I've been doing this for 23 years and 11 years in Padstow and we have always had some animosity from a few locals.

'They think we are not legitimate traders and not very educated. In the past there has been a bit of moaning and this and that.

Natasha Rowley, 47, pictured while working at Padstow harbour, said the traders have faced abuse despite 'consistently proving they had done nothing wrong'

Some traders said they believe the battle with the locals is founded on a fear that they are not insured or registered with HMRC

'But with Covid things have really turned nasty. They don't understand we are insured the same way as hairdressers.

'They have been coming up and down the street shouting and swearing.

'One lady was given such a horrible amount of abuse first thing in the morning she was reduced to tears.

'This is nothing more than bullying and harassment. It has really affected some of us.

The spat has escalated to involve local MP Scott Mann (pictured), the Conservative MP for north Cornwall

'It is by no means everyone, but there is a small percentage of Padstow that operate like this.

'They have an issue with us and seem to have some influence within the town council that creates problems.

'There could be some snobbery, but I think it is more that they are just not educated.'

Another hair braider Cher Ricard, also 47, said: 'They are totally uneducated and just don't think we are legitimate.

'They wrongly think we are not insured or registered with HMRC but we are here in all weathers, 60-70 hours a week, providing a valuable service.

'They seem to think we are stealing money from them.

'People say they are worried about chain stores, but we create a vibrancy and a holiday memory for visitors that they keep coming back to.

'We have been used to people saying nasty things on social media but we haven't suffered this level of verbal abuse until this year. It was after coronavirus it really accelerated.

'The MP has even tried to take the issue to parliament and get us shut down.

'Every year we receive so much vitriol from a Padstow residents vigilante hate group.

The traders claimed they bring 'a vibrancy' to the popular Cornish holiday spot (pictured above) and a 'holiday memory' for visitors that they keep coming back to

'The few shops and residents that show us any kindness get pressured so badly they end up forced to refuse us the simple use of a toilet for example.

'We have ignored the threats and petty school room attitudes for ten years but with Covid things have turned really nasty and need to stop.'

Natasha added: 'We have put up with this for years but we just want it to end.

'The tourists love us but we know there is a nasty element in Padstow that has a problem with us.

'Some of these are influential people and the hardest thing is seeing our friends being bullied and harassed.

The Cornish town is nicknamed 'Padstein' after famous chef Rick Stein (pictured) who has a fish restaurant in the town

'We should be part of people's holiday but they are just spreading hate. They are always shouting aggressively at us and being nasty.

'It is constant and they will probably not stop until we go. But we are not going anywhere.

'It is the behavior of nasty school bullies.

'The tourists don't see us as an eyesore. They see us as colourful and vibrant.

'But coronavirus has seen some locals vent their frustrations a lot more and things have got a bit out of hand.'

'People come to Padstow because of what we do. It is a place most know for a celebrity chef, but is also a place known for hair braiding.

'But the locals like to swear at us. We have been called an eyesore and accused of not paying tax or using card machines.

'They just don't think we contribute to society in a positive way but they just see what they want to see.

'All we ask is for a truce and for them to take a step back and really see what we do.'

Scott Mann MP confirmed he had raised the issue of the street traders in parliament and said he was still working to try to find a way to move them on.

He said: 'We have been working with all the stakeholders in Padstow on this issue. It can never be right that these so-called "businesses" can trade from the quay without paying rates whilst disrupting businesses working in a legitimate way.

'Whilst local solutions are being worked on to remove them from working around the quay, there needs to be a change in the licensing laws to ensure henna tattooists and hair braiders are classified as street traders and treated like others.

'Any commercial enterprise whether it is a street trader or fixed premises should be subject to the same rules, regulations and taxation.'

Cornwall Council said: 'Due to the fact hair braiders have no fixed base of work, they are not governed by street trading laws and therefore do not need to obtain a formal consent from Cornwall Council.

'The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) has enforcing powers on this type of work and police could use enforcement powers if operators were causing an obstruction.'
Mark Steele + FITCH/Associated Press

Grounded fliers feeling nostalgic about walking through airports will find some solace in Walmart's new store designs. The giant retail chain is getting inspiration from airports as it revamps the layout and signage of its stores to speed up shopping and better cater to smartphone-armed customers.

The nation's largest retailer, based in Bentonville, Arkansas, said that the look, which includes signs with bold dimensional typeface spotlighting sections, is currently in one store. It will be rolled out to 200 stores by early next year, with plans to add another 800 stores by early 2022.
Oman Air CEO Abdulaziz Al Raisi said: We are proud and delighted with our new partnership with Salam Air. This codeshare agreement will make it so much easier for our guests to travel through our Muscat hub to cities in Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sudan. This opens up exciting new opportunities for our customers across the network to enjoy seamless travel to these destinations and enjoy a rich world of opportunities for vacations and business travel.
Vietnamese Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong (R) and Chinese Party General Secretary and State President Xi Jinping during the latter's State visit to Vietnam in November 2017 (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi  Top Vietnamese leaders have sent congratulatory messages to their Chinese counterparts on the 71th National Day of China (October 1).



General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and President of Vietnam Nguyen Phu Trong, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc and Chairwoman of the National Assembly Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan respectively offered congratulations to General Secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and President of China Xi Jinping, Premier Li Keqiang, and Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National Peoples Congress Li Zhanshu.



In their messages, the Party and State leaders of Vietnam congratulated China on its achievements over the last 71 years, voicing their belief that under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, with General Secretary and President Xi Jinping being the core, the Chinese people will continue obtaining great accomplishments during the cause of reform, opening and socialism building with Chinese characteristics.



They affirmed that the Vietnamese Party, State and people always attach importance to developing healthy and stable relations between the two countries, and that Vietnam is ready to join hands with China to enhance equal and mutually-beneficial cooperation, properly settle outstanding problems, promote the stable and sustainable development of the Vietnam-China comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, thereby contributing to regional and global peace, stability, and development in the region and the world at large.



On this occasion, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh also extended greetings to Chinese State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
Voters who do not want to mail early ballots can take them to the county election office, put them in an official ballot drop box or vote in person at the county election office.

People who choose to vote at the polls on Election Day can expect to see the same type of coronavirus safety precautions taken during the primary election, Evnen said.

In the May primary, about 75% of voters cast early ballots and 25% voted at the polls, the opposite of previous elections. Evnen said he expects the general election will have a larger proportion at the polls but mail-in votes may still predominate. More than 350,000 requests for early ballots have come in so far. He noted that about 15% of the early ballots requested for the primary were never returned.

In other comments Wednesday:

>> Ricketts said he believes Trump came off strong in the first presidential debate. He said he was shocked that his Democratic challeger, Vice President Joe Biden, had not taken a stand against adding members to the U.S. Supreme Court. As for the tone and tenor of the debate, Ricketts said it was no surprise.

"It was a rough and tumble debate," he said. "Politics is a full-contact sport. We ought to expect those things."
Abu Dhabi, Oct 2 : Reigning champions Mumbai Indians (MI) rode a spirited show by their men, led by captain Rohit Sharma, as they gunned down Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) by 48 runs in the 13th match of the IPL at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium here on Thursday night. This was MI's second win in four matches and KXIP's third defeat in four games.

With this win, MI have gone to the top of the eight-team table with four points from two wins -- and have a better run rate than four other teams who all also have four points each. KXIP have won a solitary match and have two points.

After putting a challenging 191/4 wickets in 20 overs on board, thanks to skipper Rohit's sparkling 70 (45 balls, 8x4s, 3x6s), MI rode a collective effort by their bowlers to restrict KXIP to 143/8 wickets in 20 overs to set up a comprehensive win.

Chasing the 192-run target, KXIP made a cautious start as their openers KL Rahul (17) and Mayank Agarwal (25) took the side to 37 runs in the initial four overs. Jasprit Bumrah broke the partnership as he dismantled Mayank's wickets in the fifth over. Krunal Pandya further jolted KXIP after sending back Karun Nair for a duck with the scorecard reading 39/2.

Rahul and Nicholas Pooran then tried to avoid further assault by the MI bowlers, sharing a brief 21-run partnership for the third wicket before Rahul Chahar dislodged the former's stumps to further strengthen MI's grip in the contest.

Despite tumbling wickets, Pooran showed resistance with the bat and tried to anchor KXIP innings as he shared a 41-run partnership with Glenn Maxwell (11) which helped their side cross the three-digit mark.

However, the joy didn't last long for them James Pattinson got rid of a dangerous looking Pooran in the 14th over as KXIP were reduced to 101/4. Pooran's innings contained three fours and two sixes.

Just when KXIP added another six runs to their total, Chahar struck again, this time accounting for the wicket of Maxwell. James Neesham (7) and Sarfaraz Khan (7) were back in the hut, courtesy Bumrah and Pattinson respectively, while Trent Boult, too, joined the party as he accounted for the wicket of Ravi Bishnoi (1) in the 19th over with KXIP score being 124/8.

Krishnappa Gowtham and Mohammed Shami remained unbeaten on 21 and two runs respectively as KXIP fell short of the target by 48 runs.

For Mumbai, Bumrah, Chahar, and Pattinson bagged two wickets each while Krunal and Boult settled with one each.

Earlier, KXIP won the toss and opted to bowl. Mumbai skipper's valiant 45-ball 70, followed by late fireworks by Kieron Pollard (47 not out) and Hardik Pandya (30), propelled Mumbai Indians to 191/4 in the allotted 20 overs.

Rohit's classic knock was decorated with eight fours and three maximums. The four-time champions had a poor start as they lost opener Quinton de Kock, who departed without troubling the scorers and Suryakumar Yadav with just 21 runs on board.

Sheldon Cottrell drew the first blood for KXIP as he issued marching orders to de Kock in the very first over while Yadav was run out by Shami, courtesy a direct hit from short fine leg.

Ishan Kishan, who had played a blistering 99-run knock against Royal Challengers Bangalore, failed to replicate the show and fell for 28 runs. Kishan was involved in a 62-run partnership with skipper Rohit.

Despite the regular blows, Rohit kept the fight on and also notched-up his half-century. In the process, he also became the third Indian to cross the 5,000 run-mark in IPL.

While trying to accelerate the run rate, the MI skipper was out to a fine catch via a joint effort James Neesham and Glenn Maxwell at the long-off boundary. Rohit played a lofted shot over long-off boundary off a Shami delivery in the 17th over. However, Maxwell grabbed it and just when he was about to cross the boundary, he sensibly threw the ball to James Neesham, who made no mistake.

Rohit's fall left Mumbai at 124/4 in 16.1 overs, and then Hardik and Pollard's cameo lifted their side to a respectable total. The duo gathered 67 runs off the final 23 balls which included some massive hits into the stands.

Pollard's knock was laced with three boundaries and four huge hits while Hardik smashed three fours and a couple of sixes.

For KXIP, Krishnappa Gowtham, Cottrell, and Shami bagged a wicket apiece.

Brief scores: Mumbai Indians 191/4 wkts in 20 overs (Rohit Sharma 70, Kieron Pollard 47; Sheldon Cottrell 1/20) beat Kings XI Punjab 143/8 wkts in 20 overs (Nicholas Pooran 44, Mayank Agarwal 25; Jasprit Bumrah 2/18) by 48 runs

Latest updates on IPL 2020

-- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed
A man caused $750 worth of damage while smashing his way into a Sydney Woolworths, only to steal a $2.50 packet of mixed nuts, police say.

NSW Police released footage of a man they believe can help with their inquiries, after a thief pushed through automatic glass doors at the front of the George Street store, in the CBD, at 3.20am on Saturday.

Cops say the alleged offender picked up a single pack of mixed nuts from a display and made off into the night.

A man allegedly only stole a packet of $2.50 mixed nuts and police are looking for this man to help with inquiries (pictured, on CCTV)

Police are now investigating the bizarre incident, and are hoping the security footage can help track down a man they believe can assist with inquiries.

He is described as being white, aged between 45 and 50, and bald.

He was wearing a grey shirt, black hooded jacket, jeans, and brown shoes.
President Emmanuel Macron said Thursday that France is ready to airlift two journalists out of Nagorno Karabakh after they were badly wounded in fighting in the disputed region.

Le Monde had earlier confirmed to AFP that a reporter and photographer working for the French daily had been injured in a bombing by Azerbaijan forces.

"Two French reporters were hurt at Martuni in the Artsakh region during the Azeri bombardment," the Armenian foreign ministry tweeted.

Two Armenian journalists were also hit in the shelling, according to Armenian authorities.

Armenia's ambassador to France told AFP that both French journalists "were badly injured and are now being operated on in the town's hospital.

"They were near the town hall when the area was bombarded," Hasmik Tolmajian added.

Macron told reporters in Brussels that a "medical aircraft was ready to go as we talk. We are doing everything to stabilise the wounded before they are evacuated."

The French leader said he was sending his "support to families of the wounded and all of the journalists at Le Monde."

Several journalists, including a team from AFP, were interviewing residents in Martuni and assessing damage from previous shelling when the bombing started. No one in the AFP team was hurt.

Regis Gente of RFI/France 24 said they were looking at a damaged house when a rocket hit, adding that the attack lasted about a minute.

Heavy fighting has been raging for four days after the long-running conflict over the region between Armenia and Azerbaijan reignited.

The death toll has been rising rapidly, with both sides reporting civilian casualties.

Armenia has recorded 104 military deaths and 23 civilians killed.

Azerbaijan's defence ministry said its forces have killed 2,300 Karabakh separatist troops and "destroyed 130 tanks, 200 artillery units, 25 anti-aircraft units, five ammunition depots, 50 anti-tank units and 55 military vehicles."

Armenia claimed that Azerbaijan had lost 130 troops while another 200 were wounded.

"Armenian armed forces destroyed 29 tanks and armoured vehicles," a defence ministry spokesman said.

The majority ethnic Armenian breakaway region declared independence from Azerbaijan after the fall of the Iron Curtain which sparked a war in the early 1990s that claimed 30,000 lives.

But it is still not recognised as independent by any country, including Armenia.

Talks to resolve the conflict have largely stalled since a 1994 ceasefire agreement.

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Cool air will linger across the northeastern United States on Sunday as a batch of showers approaches from the west, but some milder days are ahead this week.

Temperatures through Sunday will be more typical of the middle of October and even more like the first weekend of November for the central Appalachians, according to AccuWeather meteorologists.

Patchy clouds and a periodic light breeze will work together to produce cool daytime conditions with AccuWeather RealFeel Temperatures about 5-10 degrees Fahrenheit lower than the actual temperature, including forecast highs.

Highs in New York City are forecast to reach the 60s each day through Tuesday. The last time there were this many days in a row with highs in the 60s or lower was during the first part of May.

CLICK HERE FOR THE FREE ACCUWEATHER APP

When and where the sun is out and winds happen to remain light, conditions may actually be rather comfortable along the Atlantic coast.

Clouds will be most predominant around the Appalachians and Great Lakes region, where it could shower multiple times. The weather in these areas may look and feel more like early November as the weekend comes to a close.

"The greatest temperature departures from average will be west of the Appalachians and should be on the order of 10-15 degrees below average," according to AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Brett Anderson.

High temperatures may struggle to reach the lower 50s over the higher elevations in the central Appalachians -- and the coolest spots over the ridges may hover in the upper 40s. AccuWeather RealFeel Temperatures will be even lower, remaining in the upper 30s and lower 40s in the daytime, especially during cloudy, breezy and showery episodes.

Temperatures won't stray as far from averages for areas farther east on Sunday and are expected to come in a few degrees below average along the mid-Atlantic coast and near average in eastern New England, Anderson explained.

Crisp weather may not only make for ideal fall hiking conditions for those seeking to take in the sights of colorful autumn foliage, it will likely bring out more people to partake in fall activities like visiting an apple orchard, according to one apple farmer that spoke with AccuWeather's National Weather Reporter Dexter Henry. Cool weather can also be beneficial to the fruit and help bring out more color in the fall-time favorite.

Story continues

Delightful conditions are forecast for much of the South with low humidity, bright sunshine, comfortable days and cool nights through this weekend. The only exception will be South Florida, where showers and thunderstorms may linger due to a stalled front.

Showers that will be sweeping through the Ohio Valley and Great Lakes on Sunday will spread into the central Appalachians by Sunday night and then to the Northeast coast by Monday.

The showers will wind down across the region throughout Monday as an area of high pressure moves in from the west.

A brief warmup is likely from Tuesday to Wednesday ahead of another burst of cool air for the latter part of the week. Once again, the core of the cool air will be focused farther west around the Great Lakes region.

A more pronounced temperature rebound, compared to average, is possible during the second weekend of October, provided the jet stream shifts in such a way as to bring cooler and wetter conditions to the Pacific coast for a time.

During September, much of the eastern part of the nation experienced temperatures within one degree of average levels for the month as a whole. Cool episodes were balanced out by warm episodes. Portions of northern New England experienced the biggest departures from normal September temperatures.

Normal temperatures trend downward at a fast pace during October and November. For example, around New York City, the average high on Oct. 1 is 69, but by the end of November, the average high is 49. This means that the air must be substantially colder to produce below-average temperatures in mid-November versus early October.

Aside from a handful of chilly days, cold air often struggles to settle along the Atlantic coast for long periods during autumn. This is because invading air from Canada often is first warmed up by the Great Lakes, then it can warm up further as it descends the Appalachians. The Atlantic Ocean can also act to moderate temperatures. Once the Great Lakes and the Atlantic water cool off later on during the winter months, colder air typically sweeps more easily across the mid-Atlantic and New England, with less warming influences.

AccuWeather's long-range team of meteorologists, led by Senior Meteorologist Paul Pastelok, predicted a cold start to the winter in the Northeast this year in their release of the annual U.S. winter forecast this week. Frequent bouts of cold air are expected to pour southward from Canada during late November or December.

Keep checking back on AccuWeather.com and stay tuned to the AccuWeather Network on DirecTV, Frontier and Verizon Fios.
The Greater Boston Jewish Coalition for Literacy is expanding to include virtual learners this semester as a way to help form a community during the coronavirus pandemic.

So many students are feeling isolated and alone, disconnected from their learning and from their learning community, said Becca Shimshak, director of Greater Boston Jewish Coalition for Literacy. So, to us the relationship building piece is paramount, in addition to literacy tutoring.

The Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) and its programs, including the literacy coalition, has been part of the community and helping in local schools for 25 years.

The Greater Boston Jewish Coalition for Literacy works by partnering with schools in the area. Volunteers work closely with teachers to focus on specific areas of need for particular students.

But this year has brought unique challenges.

The program often serves what they call middle tier students or students who fall between needing a lot of support and no support. These students, Shimshak said, can sometimes fall through the cracks  especially during times like this.

This is our first time needing to do remote tutoring, she said. Were just thrilled to be able to offer that support and give students that extra boost, whether its in feeling connected in this COVID world of isolation or in academics.

Back in May, data from the Census Bureau showed that a third of Americans were showing signs of clinical anxiety or depression.

This increased tremendously for some questions. Regarding a question about depressed mood, the percentage reporting these symptoms were double that in a 2014 survey.

Those feelings have only continued as the pandemic stretches on.

The Greater Boston Jewish Coalition for Literacy is also looking to create a community outside of just the student and tutor relationship.

The coalition recently set up a partnership between Jewish day schools and public schools to be pen pals during this time.

The hope is that theyll read a book together, Shimshak said. They write letters once a month and theyll meet over Zoom in the fall and in the spring.

She even hopes the author of the book can join them over Zoom.

The goal of that is to build connection, she said. Building that connection so that they can be future leaders and advocates in their own communities to say, Oh yeah, I know my neighbors and we have things in common, and I want to support them and stand up for whats right.

These important connections also stem from some of their volunteers being Jewish, too.

There were 114 reported anti-Semitic incidents in Massachusetts last year, the Associated Press reported.

The data tells the story that anti-Semitism continues to permeate American society, Robert Trestan, the Anti-Defamation Leagues New England director, told the AP. People are feeling increasingly emboldened to let their hate come out of the shadows and display their anti-Semitism in public.

One of the ways the ADL is responding to anti-Semitism is through partnerships with law enforcement and programs in schools and colleges, the AP reported.

The Greater Boston Jewish Coalition for Literacy is also looking for volunteer tutors during this time. Volunteers just need to be over the age of 18 and be willing to be involved on a consistent basis.

What kids really need is consistency especially right now, Shimshak said. So it needs to be somebody who can dedicate time.

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The Israeli prime minister and his wife have repeatedly brought suitcases of dirty clothes to be laundered and dry cleaned at the White House during visits, the Washington Post claims, to the vehement denial by Benjamin Netanyahus office.

It is not the first time the bizarre allegations have arisen, with Sara Netanyahu having previously been accused of taking several bags of dirty washing along to state visits for hotel staff to clean. The claims, dating back to 2010, emerged during an investigation into alleged misuse of state funds.

In recordings used as evidence during the corruption trial, Shlomit Barnea Farago, Mr Netanyahus top legal adviser, discusses alleged misuse of funds with Nir Hefetz, a spokesperson who has since turned states witness.

Ms Barnea Farago can be heard saying thats misuse of public money, to bring laundry that isnt used on the trip just so it can be dry-cleaned, during a discussion of what the pair call greedy demands made by Ms Netanyahu.

While it is customary for guests staying at the White House to have their dirty clothes washed, it is usually only an item or two, due to the short nature of state visits.

More recently, US official has told the Washington Post, under condition of anonymity, that the Netanyahus are the only ones who bring actual suitcases of dirty laundry for us to clean.

After multiple trips, it became clear this was intentional, the source added.

Israeli officials have called the claims absurd" but acknowledged that the allegations have been made repeatedly.

The prime minister is currently on trial for fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes. Mr Netanyahu stands accused of accepting some $200,000 (156, 860) in lavish gifts like cigars and champagne from two billionaires, among other allegations including trying to influence media coverage.

Mr Netanyahu denies all the allegations against him.

Ms Netayanhu was convicted of misusing public funds in July 2019 as part of a plea deal during a case in which she was accused of illegally procuring and then misreporting catering services.

The agreement saw her dodge a conviction for the more serious charge of aggravated fraud, and Ms Netanyahu was ordered to pay a fine of NIS 55,000 (12,415) to the state.
(CNN)  The morning after a rancorous debate punctuated by President Donald Trump's refusal to condemn white supremacy, his advisers offered effusive public praise even as some privately worried his performance would alienate voters and others -- including the Senate's lone Black Republican -- implored him explicitly to denounce groups who interpreted his comments as tacit approval.

"I think he misspoke," Sen. Tim Scott, R-South Carolina, a supporter of the President's, told reporters on Capitol Hill.

"I think he should correct it," Scott said. "If he doesn't correct it, I guess he didn't misspeak."

Later, Trump made an attempt at clarification, telling reporters at the White House he'd never heard of the extremist group Proud Boys, whom he told to "stand by" the previous evening.

"I don't know who Proud Boys are," he said, departing for a campaign rally in Minnesota. "But whoever they are they have to stand down, let law enforcement do their work."

But pressed on whether he welcomes support from white supremacists, Trump said only, "I want law and order -- it's a very important part of my campaign."

And he continued to insist it was his rival Joe Biden who refused to condemn violence -- "the problem is on the left," he claimed -- and declared victory in a debate even many of his closest allies believe went poorly.

As Americans woke up dazed from a bruising debate in which the President badgered and interrupted over the course of a chaotic 90-minute spectacle, it was Trump's refusal to explicitly condemn white supremacist groups the night before that emerged as the night's principal takeaway.

While Trump, according to his spokeswoman, was in "very good spirits" following the debate and his campaign insisted he "turned in the greatest debate performance in presidential history," others around the President appeared less sure.

A number of the President's advisers voiced concern he appeared overly aggressive and said the debating style he demonstrated Tuesday was not the tactic discussed among advisers during preparatory sessions beforehand.

Some of the President's allies said Wednesday they believe he crashed and burned on a night that mattered to his reelection.

Trump had rehearsed an answer on race with his debate team in the likely event a question on the deadly 2017 protests in Charlottesville, Virginia, was asked, a person involved in the prep said. But when Wallace brought up the incident, Trump did not deploy the defense that was suggested to him, missing what the person described as a "perfect opportunity" because the question closely resembled what was discussed privately.

In conversations with several people who work for Trump, advise him or support him, all acknowledged Trump was too aggressive, touted few of his accomplishments and likely turned off the moderate voters he desperately needs to improve his standing.

In private conversations, Trump's performance was described as obnoxious, unprepared and lacking a cogent line of attack on Biden, like he did with Hillary Clinton in 2016.

"A disaster," one adviser called it.

The performance left aides struggling to consider ways to improve in the final stretch of the campaign as time runs short.

Among the most charitable interpretations was that the debate "doesn't move the needle one way or the other," an adviser said -- benefiting Biden, who is far and away the frontrunner at this stage in the race.

Talk has already begun among some aides over how to communicate a potential change in approach to Trump for his next debate, a town-hall style event on October 15 in Miami. Both the Trump and Biden campaigns affirmed late Tuesday they planned to participate.

One adviser said that Trump was most effective when he confronted Biden about his record and asked him questions.

"Do more of that," the Trump adviser said.

Trump offered little indication he viewed his performance as anything but stellar.

"I thought it was a great evening," Trump told reporters at the White House. "I think the ratings were very high. And it was good to be there, felt very comfortable and I appreciate all the good words."

He also pinned blame on Wallace, the Fox News host who moderated the debate.

"Two on one was not surprising, but fun," he wrote on Twitter, one in a string of morning-after messages that framed Biden's performance as a losing one.

"Nobody wants Sleepy Joe as a leader, including the Radical Left (which he lost last night!)," he wrote.

In his messages, however, Trump did not address the issue causing some consternation even among his allies: his refusal, when pressed, to deliver an explicit rebuke of white nationalist groups, including the far-right Proud Boys.

"Proud Boys? Stand back and stand by," Trump said, turning the question back to what he says is far-left extremist: "Somebody's got to do something about Antifa and the left."

That answer proved sufficiently vague for allies such as Scott, who encouraged him to clarify.

"I've already sent my comments to the chief of staff," Scott said when asked on Capitol Hill whether he intended to direct his concerns to Trump himself. Scott said Trump's top aide Mark Meadows had no specific response other than saying thank you.

Others in Trump's orbit said he should move quickly to head off more negative coverage.

"The next opportunity the President has to clarify that answer -- because folks like you and others are confused by it -- then he should do that," former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie said on ABC News. Christie was among the small group of advisers who helped Trump prepare for Tuesday's debate.

He said moments after it wrapped that Trump came out "too hot," and said his performance did not reflect the type of debate he and other advisers had help him prepare for in the days leading up to the encounter.

In those sessions, a premium had been placed on turning the election away from a referendum on Trump and more into a choice between himself and Biden. Aides had prepared the President with a long list of examples for him to use in defining Biden, including misstatements and policy discrepancies.

While Trump did use some of those, his appearance was defined more by his sour demeanor and rude interruptions, which led at one point to Wallace shouting at him to be quiet.

Trump has insisted his supporters are thrilled by watching him spar with reporters and rivals. But the nastiness is part of why he's lost support among critical voting blocs, including suburban women and senior citizens.

Another reason, according to polls, are his views on race and his willingness to entrench in rhetoric and policy designed to aggravate racial divides. His reluctance to condemn white supremacy on Tuesday did little to ease those concerns.

"He should have been very clear," Sen. Mike Rounds, a South Dakota Republican, said the morning after. "And he should have made it very clear that there's no room for people on the far left, or the far right, when it comes to either Antifa or these white supremacist groups. He should have been very clear."

Trump's aides at the White House insisted the President was clear when speaking about Proud Boys and other extremist groups.

Peter Navarro, the President's pugnacious trade adviser, cast blame on Wallace.

"I think that moment for me underscored just how poor Chris Wallace did as a debate moderator," Navarro said during an appearance on MSNBC.

"The President said of course -- he started to say, of course he would denounce that, and Wallace cut him off."

Yet Trump never returned to his answer, leaving his call to "stand back and stand by" to speak for itself. To the Proud Boys, the response signaled affirmation: at least one social media account associated with the group used Trump's words as part of a new logo.

Still, even that reaction hasn't prompted widespread discussions inside the White House about issuing a clarifying statement.

"I don't think that there's anything to clarify. He's told them to stand back" White House communications director Alyssa Farah said Wednesday morning, without mentioning Trump's other call for them to "stand by."

This story was first published on CNN.com Trump's allies offer public praise but privately worry after debate
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Photo by Lara Swimmer [enlarge] The broadcast studios were designed as boxes-within-boxes, each like a small concert hall.





Classical KING FM has been broadcasting since February from its new home in 3,800 square feet of subleased space in the Seattle Opera Center, adjacent to McCaw Hall at Seattle Center.





. . .
With the state governments announcement of reopening of hotels and restaurants from Monday, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) plans to encourage customers to pre-book their seats and direct restaurants not to accept customers without pre-booking.

This will be part of the standard operating procedure (SOP) for restaurant owners and customers to ensure Covid-appropriate behaviour. The SOP is being drafted and is expected to be finalised by Monday.

The SOP will be divided into two parts  for customers and restaurant owners  and will include sanitising, wearing masks, social distancing and getting restaurant staff to wear gloves and masks throughout.

The notification issued by the state government on Wednesday allowed hotels, bars, restaurants, food courts, shut for more than six months, to operate at 50% of their capacity. Suresh Kakani, additional municipal commissioner (health), said, We have planned to ensure an arrangement of pre-booking of seats at restaurants to avoid unnecessary crowding. The restaurant owners will have to take precautions to ensure this transition, of opening up their spaces for customers, takes place smoothly. Their seating arrangement should be made in a way that social distancing is maintained.

Restaurant owners will have to ensure regular sanitising of the eating space and maintain hygiene in the kitchen. Also, periodic testing of its staff will be mandatory, as per the upcoming SOP of the BMC.

Gurbaxish Singh Kohli, spokesperson of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Western India, said, I think people are more cautious to wait outside the restaurants in this pandemic and so pre-booking will work. I dont agree that there will be overcrowding the moment we open restaurants as consumers confidence is low. We are on a wait-and-watch mode and will see how it unfolds.
October 1, 2020



POCATELLO  Three Idaho State University biological science students have started a new KISU radio series on mental health called Mind Tap that will begin Oct. 2 at 7:35 a.m.

Mind Tap, which was started by Scott Greeves, Jessica Whitaker and Christian Powell, is a student-produced radio series that tackles a unique aspect of mental health every week. Topics include student-athlete mental health, the mental health impacts of COVID-19, conversations around suicide, and substance abuse and mental health within indigenous communities.

The goal of Mind Tap is to share personal stories about real people dealing with mental health issues, said Whitaker, a Wolf Lake, Illinois native. I hope that these stories will inspire people to bring up mental health concerns during a meal with their family or during a Zoom meeting. These are things that we should not ignore.

Mind Tap will take a look at serious problems affecting southern Idaho, while also helping people understand how to address mental health issues.

I believe Mind Tap is special because it mixes a variety of serious and challenging mental health topics with entertaining and insightful pieces, said Greeves, who is originally from Norwich, England. The series shows that the topic of mental health can be addressed respectfully and in a variety of ways to engage different groups.

Greeves, Whitaker and Powell  who have been assisted by biological sciences Visiting Assistant Professor Rhesa Ledbetter  recognize that mental health affects everybody in different ways, especially with the pandemic right now.

Everybody has mental health  good, bad or somewhere in between  and its time we acknowledge that more comprehensively, Greeves said. Being a student can be stressful and some people may struggle with aspects of their mental health during this time. Mind Tap offers one of many ways to engage with and understand topics of mental health, particularly within a local context.

Greeves, Powell and Whitaker hope that Mind Tap can be a resource for people struggling with mental health so that they dont feel alone.

The Mind Tap series provides a voice for students to discuss and share their perspectives on mental health challenges facing college campuses and stresses impacting younger members of our community, said Jamon Anderson, interim general manager of KISU.

Mind Tap will air on KISU on Fridays beginning Oct. 2 at 7:35 a.m. and run for the next eight weeks. KISU is located on the radio dial at 91.1 in Pocatello, 91.3 in Idaho Falls and 88.1 in Rexburg.

For more information on Mind Tap, visit https://www.kisu.org/#stream/0.
The first debate in the 2020 presidential election was chaotic and awkward, to say the least, as President Donald Trump and Vice President Joe Biden sparred in a cacophony of interruption and disorder. It even prompted the Commission on Presidential Debates to release a statement Wednesday explaining it will add new tools to maintain order to the upcoming debates.

The debate also reminded us of past presidential shouting matches, tense interactions and generally weird moments between candidates that would decide the fate of the country, for better or worse. Take a look back at some other odd, uneasy and genuinely funny moments from both presidential and vice presidential debates, including primaries.

Nixon sweats the debate (1960)

The first debate in the 1960 election was historic for a few reasons, chiefly because it was the first ever held on television, indicating voters' perception of the candidates might go beyond the substance of their campaigns (depending on your perspective, obviously). Nixon famously appeared sweaty and unshaven opposite clean-cut and relaxed John F. Kennedy in front of an estimated 70 million viewers. History suggests TV viewers claimed Kennedy won, while those listening on the radio thought Nixon did.

I will not make age an issue of this campaign (1984)

At the time, 73-year-old incumbent President Ronald Reagan became the oldest person to ever be nominated by a major party for president. When his age became an issue during the second 1984 presidential debate against a younger Walter Mondale, Reagan delivered an amazing line: I am not going to exploit for political purposes my opponents youth and inexperience. He won 49 states in a total landslide.

Youre no Jack Kennedy' (1988)

When vice presidential candidate Sen. Dan Quayle, 41 at the time, insisted he was plenty qualified to take over as president in the event he had to, pointing out he had as much experience in Congress as John F. Kennedy did when he ran for president. Walter Mondales 1988 running mate Sen. Lloyd Bentsen famously told Quayle that he was no Jack Kennedy" in this 1988 debate. Quayle replied, That was really uncalled for, Senator.

You ought to be ashamed of yourself (1992)

Youre not worth being on the same platform as my wife, Arkansas Gov. Bill Clinton told California Gov. Jerry Brown during a 1992 Democratic primary debate in Chicago after Brown accused Clinton of funneling Arkansas state money to Hillary Clintons law firm. Clinton would win the nomination, and the presidency.

Bush checks his watch (1992)

Media and voters took issue when incumbent President George H.W. Bush checked his watch as a young woman asked a question about the national debt. Where exactly did the president have to be? For all we know, there was a national security crisis to which he was privy and he needed to jet. Or he just wanted to be aware of his time limit with the question. Or it was a completely harmless moment of habit that Twitter would no doubt mercilessly analyze and criticize had it existed in 1992.

Bush and McCain ad jabs (2000)

Before George W. Bush easily won the Republican nomination, he and primary opponent Sen. John McCain traded jabs after trading negative campaign ads during this sit-down debate moderated by CNNs Larry King, which also featured third candidate Ambassador Alan Keyes calling their spat pointless squabbling.

Joe the Plumber (2008)

Ohio plumber Joe Wurzelbacher entered the zeitgeist after he spoke with Obama face-to-face on the campaign trail and claimed the future presidents tax policy would challenge his business plans. At a subsequent debate, Obama and GOP nominee Sen. John McCain would then speak to Joe the Plumber directly through the camera to make their policy cases they hoped would connect with him and other regular folks running small businesses.

Oops (2012)

During a primary debate, then-Texas Gov. Rick Perry emphatically stated he would eliminate three agencies of government when elected president. Only problem was he immediately forgot the third agency hed nix on the spot. He wouldnt recover in the debate, nor in the election.

10,000 bucks? (2012)

Before he won the GOP nomination in the 2012 primary, Gov. Mitt Romney sparred with Gov. Rick Perry over policy Perry insisted he read about in Romneys book. The wealthy Massachusetts governor denied it and then, in a slightly out-of-touch moment, he made a spontaneous $10,000 bet to find the truth. Perry declined.

Get the transcript (2012)

Republican candidate Gov. Mitt Romney insisted President Barack Obama took 14 days to call the Benghazi attack an act of terror, while the president insisted they get the transcript. Moderator and CNN analyst Candy Crowley fact-checked to point out Obama did use that term to describe the event. Also, remember binders full of women?"

A bunch of malarkey

When Mitt Romneys GOP running mate Paul Ryan criticized the White Houses foreign policy during a 2012 campaign, Vice President Joe Biden called his claims a bunch of malarkey, encapsulating the Veeps unique and rather old school way with words. (Oct. 11)

Rubio attacks Trump (2016)

In the final Republican debate before Super Tuesday 2016, as Donald Trump was gaining steam to win the nomination (and ultimately the presidency), Senators Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz unleashed a flurry of attacks on the businessman, attempting to beat him at his own game. "If he hadnt inherited $200 million, you know where Donald Trump would be right now? Rubio asked, next to a clearly rattled Trump. Selling watches in Manhattan. Cruz then pointed out Trump was polling behind presumptive Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton, to which Trump replied, "If I cant beat her, youre really gonna get killed, arent you?

Such a nasty woman (2016)

While Democratic nominee Sec. Hillary Clinton discussed social security policy, GOP hopeful Donald Trump called interjected to call her a nasty woman," which she ignored. Many immediately pointed it out as yet another misogynistic moment for the future president while some of Clintons supporters continue to use it as a rallying cry.

Putins puppet (2016)

Another tense moment from the third debate in 2016: When Trump said Russian President Vladimir Putin had no respect Clinton, she quickly retorted Thats because hed rather have a puppet as president of the United States. Trumps response: No puppet. No puppet. Youre the puppet. No, youre the puppet.

One arrogant billionaire for another (2020)

During a Democratic primary debate in Las Vegas, Sen. Elizabeth Warren highlighted Mayor Mike Bloombergs past misogynistic comments about women during a tense moment as they stood shoulder to shoulder. Understand this, Warren said. Democrats take a huge risk if we just substitute one arrogant billionaire for another. While polling decently prior to that debate, Bloombergs campaign would not recover.
Douglas Friedman

Rainn Wilson's real-life home is nothing like Schrute Farms  but there are some barnyard animals on hand!

The actor, best known for his role as Dwight Schrute on The Office, 54, and his wife, writer Holiday Reinhorn, 56, moved into a 1974 Spanish-style hacienda in Southern California earlier this year and recently opened the doors to the newly renovated space to archdigest.com.

We were looking to get a little farther away from Los Angeles, somewhere close to the ocean but still in striking distance of the city, Reinhorn says. The first time we saw this place, we fell in love. The pair  who share son Walter, 16  visited the home three or four times before they bought it, and say they were drawn in more and more each time until they never wanted to leave.

They also share the five-and-a-half acre property  which boasts citrus groves, macadamia trees and Pacific Ocean views  with their pets, including two rescue pit bulls, Poe and Diamond, as well their pigs, Amy and Snorty, who live in the barn out back but are still very much considered part of the family.

RELATED: See Inside J Balvin's Two Stunning Colombian Homes That He Says 'Feed My Soul, Not My Ego'

Douglas Friedman

They decorated with the help of designer Tammy Randall Wood, whose interiors reflect Wilson and Reinhorns unique bohemian tastes, with subtle nods to their travels in Morocco and Haiti. (The latter is where they established their charity, Lide Haiti.)

Moroccan rugs cover the terracotta tile floors, antique wood doors were brought in from Mexico, and leafy palms decorate nearly every room. An abundance of reading material can also be found throughout the home. Theyre both avid readers and writers, and they wanted books everywhere, Wood shares.

Douglas Friedman

We didnt want the house to feel too formal or overly designed. We are two creatives sharing a home, and we wanted it to be a place where we can write and make music and tell stories, Reinhorn says of the purposeful design, with Wilson adding, I would describe the look as global bohemian.

Story continues

RELATED VIDEO: 'Grace and Frankie' Star Marsha Mason Shows Off Her New Art-Filled Connecticut Home

'Grace and Frankie' Star Marsha Mason Shows Off Her New Art-Filled Connecticut Home

The actress takes us on a tour of her eclectic country home.

The home is also filled with plenty of art precious to the couple. Art is really one of the things we bonded over, Wilson says, "even when we were dirt broke living in New York City." He explains that he and his wife tend to be drawn to works with an absurdist flair.

Some of their most sentimental art pieces were created by Rainn's late father, Robert Wilson.

RELATED: See Inside Marry Me's Casey Wilsons Farmhouse-Style L.A. Home: The House of Our Dreams

Now that the house has been fully renovated into their dream home, the couple is thrilled that they have a space that feels so personal to hunker down in.

We designed this house to foster creativity, Reinhorn says. We intended it to be a gathering place for other artists, friends, and collaborators, but by the time we moved in, the pandemic was in full swing. Still, I cant imagine a more inspiring place to be in lockdown.

Wilson agrees: Each room has its own creative vibration, its own energy. Were blessed to live in a place with genuine soul and character.

Read the full feature and see more photos on architecturaldigest.com.
Former Montana governor and Republican National Committee Chair Marc Racicot on Tuesday said he would not vote for President Donald Trump, citing Trump's character as fault enough to vote for Democrat challenger Joe Biden on Nov. 3.

Racicot, 72, shared the revelation in an interview with Brian Kahn, host of Home Ground, broadcast Tuesday evening on Yellowstone Public Radio. He offered up no specific praise for former Vice President Biden, but spoke of qualities such as patience, decency and openness to contrary opinion, qualities Racicot suggested are absent in the Trump administration, as the reason for voting against the Republican president.

"I regret that I will cause consternation perhaps in some corners, but even as a Republican, I will not be supporting Donald Trump for president, and I will not be voting for him," Racicot said. "That means I will be voting for Joe Biden for president.  I'm not going to march lockstep with him every step of the way or with the administration. I'll have disagreements, I'm certain. But the content of a man's character or a woman's character to serve in that capacity is more important than any other issue that I have to consider as a matter of conscience."

Racicot did not cite any specific examples. However, a recently-released portion of a book by Bob Woodward showed Trump misled the public about the severity of COVID-19. The president has been accused of sexual misconduct by at least 26 women since the 1970s; he denies many accusations. A New York Times investigation showed he reduced his tax bill with "questionable measures," paid no income taxes at all in 10 of the previous 15 years," and yet portrayed himself as a successful businessman in his bid for president.

Racicot is not the only Montana Republican to reject the Trump-bearing GOP. In July, former Secretary of State and state Senate President Bob Brown penned a guest column in the Missoulian, his own "Declaration of independence from the Republican Party."

"For over 70 years, I've considered myself a Republican," Brown wrote. "But after watching Trump's consistently ignorant and irresponsible leadership, I've concluded that in good conscience, I can't remain a member of the party he has taken over."

Racicot served two terms as Montana's governor, elected in 1992 and again 1996. He stepped into the national spotlight alongside George W. Bush during the then-Texas governor's 2000 presidential run and became a key voice on Bush's behalf during of the Florida recount fiasco.

Tuesday's interview with Kahn touched on Racicot's early political career, money in politics and his views on the state attorney general's office, which he also occupied prior to his election as governor. Racicot used 1968, following the assassinations of Martin Luther King, Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy, as a pinpoint in time in which he last remembered such a frayed societal fabric.

This year, Racicot said, the presidency has threatened the Republic.

"I think that our form of government, and therefore life and decision-making, is at risk because we simply have moved away from the fundamental operational dynamics of how to go about governing ourselves," Racicot said.

While perhaps more sharp in his concerns during Tuesday's interview, Racicot penned a similar call in 2016 in an op-ed published in the Washington Post under the headline, "Americans can choose better than Trump."

"In 2016 I made it very plain, in July  I couldn't vest my confidence in Donald Trump," he said Tuesday. "And I don't intend to vest that confidence in Donald Trump today because I have even more grave doubts than I did in 2016."

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HARTWELL, Georgia--A new survey among vascular access (VA) and emergency department (ED) clinicians has revealed significant levels of variation in ultrasound-guided peripheral IV (UGPIV) practices and supply use across hospitals and alternate care settings. Published in the September issue of the Journal of the Association for Vascular Access, the findings carry critical implications for patient safety.

A total of 1,475 VA and ED practitioners responded to the survey, which was designed to gain better insight into clinicians' current practices regarding UGPIV insertion. The survey also identified inconsistencies in supply use across hospital departments. The survey was conducted by Nancy Moureau, RN, PhD, an internationally recognized expert and consultant in vascular access and CEO of PICC Excellence.

"Identifying gaps and variations in clinical practice forms the basis of quality initiatives intended to improve patient safety. This survey revealed clinically meaningful differences in all variables for UGPIV procedures and supplies," said Dr. Moureau. "Aseptic technique is essential for minimizing contamination, but its effectiveness is diminished if it's not done in a consistent manner. Often inconsistencies in supply usage point to variation in policy application and the potential for substandard practices. The survey results suggest a need for clinical education on the application of UGPIV guidelines, and for greater scrutiny over supplies and techniques in order to promote standardization."

The lack of consistency revealed by the survey is apparent in respondents' varied use of transducer protection and gel. To minimize contamination during UGPIV insertions, current guidelines -- such as those from the American College of Emergency Physicians and the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine -- recommend use of a transducer cover and single-use gel packets (sterile or non-sterile). According to the survey, however, just 59 percent of VA clinicians and 11 percent of ED clinicians always use a sterile probe cover during UGPIV procedures, and only 64 percent of VA personnel and 13 percent of ED personnel use sterile gel. In addition, more than 22 percent of respondents stated that they vary between multi-use gel bottles and single-use gel packets, both sterile and non-sterile.

The survey results also highlight issues resulting from the presence of gel in the area of the sterile insertion site. Among the respondents, 41 percent of VA clinicians and 51 percent of ED clinicians reported instances of inadequate gel removal, which results in securement and dressing adherence issues. Poor adherence of dressings can lead to catheter failure and accidental dislodgement. Over half of all VA personnel (52 percent) said they felt that aseptic technique is often compromised by post-procedure gel clean-up.

PIV insertion is the most commonly performed invasive medical procedure among hospitalized patients. Over 70 percent of acute care patients require IV access at some point during their stay. According to Dr. Moureau, up to 60 percent of those patients may be considered to have difficult vascular access (DiVA). These patients frequently require ultrasound guidance in order to successfully achieve peripheral access and receive necessary treatments.

"This study confirms that the lack of consistent, evidence-based guidelines regarding ultrasound-guidance for PIV insertions has led to a great deal of fragmentation, and shows that clinicians are confused over when and how to use this technology in a way that protects patient safety," said emergency vascular access expert Jon Bell, RN, MSN, VA-BC. "There needs to be an objective standard for identifying difficult access patients, as well as a multi-disciplinary effort to conduct research to determine the best practices that will minimize harm to the patient."

The use of ultrasound may increase the risk of contamination during PIV insertions if certain guidelines are not followed to maintain a sterile insertion site and use the appropriate supplies (gel and transducer protection). According to Dr. Moureau, a specialty gel-free insertion dressing that separates the transducer and gel from the insertion site (UltraDrape, Parker Labs) may address and even mitigate many of these issues while reducing the cost of performing UGPIV insertions. In this study, 9 percent of survey respondents reported use of this gel separation safety dressing.

The survey results align with recent concerns from the healthcare quality and safety organization, ECRI (Plymouth Meeting, PA). The nonprofit technology assessment group addressed the issue of standardization in its list of top patient safety concerns for 2020, writing that "policies and education must align across care settings to ensure patient safety."

ECRI also included the use of point-of-care ultrasound in its briefing on 2020 Top 10 Health Technology Hazards, and noted that the rapid adoption of this technology across various care settings has left many organizations struggling to keep up with appropriate safety measures.

###

About Dr. Nancy Moureau and PICC Excellence

Nancy Moureau, RN, PhD, CRNI, CPUI, VA-BC, is founder and CEO of PICC Excellence, a vascular access education and training service for clinicians. Internationally recognized as an expert in vascular access education and training, Dr. Moureau is also a member of the Alliance for Vascular Access Teaching and Research (AVATAR), based in Australia. Dr. Moureau is widely published in the medical literature, and is a coauthor of recent guidelines that define appropriate indications for the insertion, maintenance, and care of PICCs and ultrasound-guided peripheral catheters. Dr. Moureau's consulting organization, PICC Excellence, provides effective, easy-to-understand web-based education, workshops and on-site training for clinicians worldwide.

For more information about PICC Excellence, visit http://www.piccexcellence.com.
 Flash

Multilateralism has yet to improve when it comes to inter-state cooperation in cases of serious global challenges like the current COVID-19 pandemic, a Greek expert has said.

From a systemic point of view, multilateralism is a normative repercussion of the rise of multipolarism after the end of the incomplete period of unipolarity that arrived immediately after the end of the Cold War and the collapse of the Soviet Union, Spyros Litsas, professor of international relations theory at the University of Macedonia in northern Greece, told Xinhua in a recent interview.

From an economic point of view, multilateralism is a positive result that is offering an opportunity to the global economy to be more competitive and effective, said the expert, who is also visiting professor of international relations and strategy at the Supreme Joint War College of the Greek Armed Forces.

"However, I strongly believe that multilateralism has yet to improve in the area related to inter-state cooperation to face grave global situations, such as the current COVID-19 pandemic," he noted.

If multilateralism may function as a procedure that will enhance inter-state collaboration against rogue elements, state and non-state actors, then the 21st century may prove to be more stable than the previous one, according to Litsas.

"If this inter-state collaboration may move to other areas too, such as technology, global infrastructure, or green policies, then humanity has a chance to survive the challenges ahead," he said.

For the Greek expert, the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road Initiative is a positive step toward adding to multilateralism.

"Any kind of an economic initiative that has the capacity to create new jobs and can contribute to the economic growth of a region is beneficial. The Silk Road Initiative, especially after the beginning of the Greek economic crisis, proves to be a positive step," he said.

"However, it is important to see hi-tech investments instead of low-productivity investments in order for the Greek economy to meet its full potential. As long as the Maritime Silk Road Initiative preserves its economic and cultural character, then it adds to the region's multilateralism," he said.

China's major investment into Greece's largest port, Piraeus, by COSCO Shipping coincided with the outbreak of the Greek economic crisis. In 2009, COSCO's subsidiary Piraeus Container Terminal S.A. took over the management of the port's container terminal, while in 2016, COSCO acquired a majority stake in the port's operator, Piraeus Port Authority S.A., in an international tender.

Many third-party observers say China-Greek win-win collaboration over the past decade has produced remarkable results, with the Piraeus port project, for example, massively improving the port's image and serving as a "Dragon's Head" for the new Maritime Silk Road in Europe.

"I think there are more things that can be done in Piraeus to increase the economic performance of container handling. It has to be said that the port has the capacity to be further developed, while it must also be modernized in many aspects, with the production of a technologically advanced infrastructure to be a necessity," the professor said.
This was to be a partnership with a nightclub called Heist, as backed by the attorney-entrepreneur Vinoda Basnayake, who just happens to be chair of the District of Columbias Commission on Nightlife and Culture and who sat one of the D.C. committees exploring how the sector could reopen. As Washingtons essential City Paper reported, the new venture was billed as a socially distant pop-up lounge featuring VIP Ultra Cabanas or VIP tables with a unique bottle service and a "hit-music playlist curated by the hottest DJs in the country. The paper further reported that the total potential capacity was 360 people, far greater than a handful of other indoor cultural venues being allowed to reopen as part of a pilot program that limited them to an audience of 50 (also the current limit for live performance in Chicago).
Google

Google unveiled the Pixel 5 on Wednesday, its next flagship smartphone and competitor to the iPhone.

The announcement comes after Google revealed the name of the device in August.

Google's Pixel line doesn't have as big of a presence in the market as it rivals from Samsung, Apple, and Huawei, but the company often uses the phones to introduce new Android features.

Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Google on Wednesday introduced the Pixel 5, its newest high-end smartphone meant to go head-to-head with the upcoming iPhone 12 and Samsung's Galaxy S20 phones.

The phone will be among Google's first 5G smartphones, starting at $700 alongside the cheaper $500 Pixel 4a 5G. It's a notable departure from last year's Pixel 4, as the company is focusing more on value and core features like camera quality and battery life. Google's previous flagship phone introduced flashy new motion-detection features but was criticized by some reviewers for its high price and shorter-than-expected battery life.

Google is also tailoring some of its apps and services to take advantage of 5G networks. For example, the company's Duo video-chatting app will now support a feature that makes it possible to share your screen with the recipient of the call and watch videos together. Google also said it would optimize video and photo streaming in YouTube and its photos app for 5G.

Google's Pixel phones have focused on their camera quality in years past, and that's continuing with the Pixel 5. Google is adding an ultrawide camera lens to the Pixel 5, a critical feature that lets phones take images with a wider perspective that the Pixel 4 was lacking.

Google is also improving portrait mode, the feature that lets you snap a photo of a sharp subject against a blurred background, to work with Night Sight. That's the shooting mode Google announced two years ago that enables its phones to take better photos in low-light conditions.

Story continues

The Pixel 5 is getting a boost when it comes to power efficiency too. A new "extreme battery saver" setting will let users extend the battery life of their Pixel 5 by up to 48 hours by choosing to enable only essential apps, the company says. It can also charge other devices, like earbuds or other accessories, by resting the device on the phone's back.

Google

The Pixel 5 may look similar to the Pixel 4a 5G, considering they share the same processor and camera, but there are some key differences between the two. The pricier Pixel 5 has a larger battery, a slightly smaller screen with a higher refresh rate, a more premium glass body, water resistance, and the previously mentioned battery-sharing feature. The Pixel 5 also lacks a headphone jack, which the Pixel 4a 5G includes.

Google also announced a new Google Assistant feature that enables the digital helper to wait on hold during calls and alert you when a person joins the line.

With the Pixel 5, Google walked back some of the big bets on new technology that it made with last year's Pixel 4. Google's presentation made no mention of the motion-detection features powered by Google's Soli radar technology that served as one of the Pixel 4's main attractions.

Google's ambitions with the Pixel 5 appear to be more focused on value, as it's launching at a lower price than the Pixel 4 did last year and runs on a less-powerful Qualcomm processor.

The announcement comes after Google unveiled the name of the phone in August. Multiple leaks have also surfaced showing the Pixel 5's design and features ahead of its official unveiling.

Though Google's Pixel phones have earned praise from reviewers in the past, the global smartphone market is still largely dominated by Samsung, Apple, and Huawei.

The Chinese smartphone giant Huawei accounted for 20% of global smartphone shipments in the second quarter of 2020, according to figures from the International Data Corp. Samsung, meanwhile, placed in second with 19.5% of the market, while Apple landed in third with a market share of 13.5%. Google was not named as one of the top five smartphone vendors.

Google's Pixel division has also undergone a shake-up over the past year, with key camera executive Marc Levoy and Mario Queiroz, Google's previous Pixel leader, departing the company.

Google may not make up a notable slice of the smartphone market, but its Pixel phones provide an avenue for the company to introduce exclusive Android features and provide a blueprint for other Android phone makers to follow. For example, some features in Android 11  like the ability for your phone to recommend apps based on your daily routine  launched on Pixel phones first.

The Pixel 5 is debuting just before Apple is expected to unveil its next-generation iPhone this month. The phone, rumored to be called the iPhone 12, is expected to be the company's first 5G iPhone, coming after many Android device makers like Samsung have launched several 5G phones.

Apple typically launches its new iPhones in September ahead of Google's Pixel launch, but the company said in July that it expected supply of the new phones to arrive later this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Google, meanwhile, is launching its Pixel flagship slightly earlier than usual, getting ahead of Apple's iPhone announcement. The company has introduced new Pixel phones in October in years past.

Read the original article on Business Insider
COLUMBUS, Ohio  President Donald Trump said during this weeks presidential debate that hes OK with voting by mail, as long as ballots are sent in response to a request from a specific voter, and not being mailed unsolicited to everyone.

As far as the ballots are concerned, its a disaster. A solicited ballot, OK, solicited, is OK. Youre soliciting. Youre asking. They send it back. You send it back. I did that, Trump said.

So by the presidents own standard, he should be OK with how mail voting is done in all the major battleground states that will play decisive roles in this years presidential election.

Like Ohio, Michigan, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Florida (where Trump officially lives and votes by mail) all only send absentee ballots to voters who request them, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures, a nonpartisan group that researches state-by-state laws. Of these states, Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin send unsolicited absentee application forms to all registered voters.

One potential swing state, Nevada, recently moved to mail ballots to all registered voters. But the state only has six electoral votes, and is unlikely to play a decisive role in the election. It even has a Republican secretary of state who oversees elections.

The other states that are considered vote by mail states are not considered competitive, and are a mix of Republican and Democratic states. Montana, Colorado, Hawaii, Utah and Washington regularly send ballots to all registered voters, according to the NCSL. Four Democratic states, California, Nevada, New Jersey and Vermont are planning to do so specifically for the November election. Of all of these states, Colorado is the most competitive, although a Republican presidential candidate hasnt won there since 2004. (The state has offered universal vote by mail since 2013.)

Yet, Trump continues to sow distrust in the mail-voting system, highlighting individual elections irregularities to argue the entire process is flawed. This has led to mounting concern among Democrats and others that Trump is laying the foundation to seek the election results to be invalidated if he loses. Trump has clearly said multiple he may not accept the results of the election. Usually, he and Republican officials have sought to differentiate mail-in voting -- universal ballot mailings with absentee voting" -- mail ballots by request. But again, even drilling into the semantics, Trump has conflated these slightly different concepts, and nearly all of the major swing states only offer mail ballots to voters who request them.

A Trump campaign official didnt respond when asked which state or states' specific voting protocols Trump was most concerned about.

Trump might be concerned about the recent expansion of mail-in voting in the key battleground states. Wisconsin, for example, expects mail-in voting percentages to jump from the normal 6% to 80%, according to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. In May, Trump said Michigan by mailing unsolicited absentee ballot applications  like Ohio has done for years  was going down a voter fraud path.

He also might be concerned that the top elections official in most of the swing states are Democrats -- Michigan, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. Republicans hold the same job in Ohio and Florida, as well as in Iowa, a possible battleground state that by the way, does universal absentee ballot application mailings.

But repeated studies have shown that documented voter fraud in any form is rare. The conservative Heritage Foundation, which has taken a keen interest in investigating voter fraud in recent years, has identified 1,298 proven cases of fraud dating back to 1979. But billions of votes have been cast during that same time period. In 2016, 128.8 million voters cast ballots nationally. Trump won Michigan that year  a pivotal state -- by about 10,000 votes. No significant amounts of voter fraud were detected, even though Trump after winning the election made the baseless claim that 3 million illegal immigrants voted for his opponent, Hillary Clinton, who won the overall popular vote but lost in the Electoral College. A Trump-formed voter-fraud commission, which a top official at the Heritage Foundation helped with, disbanded with no findings of widespread fraud.

And Christopher Wray, whom Trump appointed to lead the FBI in 2017, testified before a U.S. Senate committee last week that while isolated instances of local voter fraud are on the FBIs radar, the agency has seen no evidence of a coordinated widespread fraud effort.

We have not seen historically any kind of coordinated national fraud effort in a major election, whether it is by mail or otherwise, he said. Certainly mounting that kind of fraud at scale would be a major challenge for an adversary. But people should make no mistake, we are vigilant to the threat.

Ohio is among the most liberal states in terms of early-voting options. Its mailed absentee ballot applications to all registered voters during all even-year elections since 2012. And its offered no-fault absentee  meaning someone could vote by mail without providing a reason  since 2005.

During these years, Republicans and Democrats have split election victories, although the state is trending rightward. Democrats won in 2006, 2008 and 2012. Republicans have won in 2010, 2014 and 2016. Both parties have developed programs to "chase' outstanding mail ballots, motivating their voters to return them so they can focus on Election Day.

During this time, multiple Republican secretaries of state in Ohio have declared voter-fraud to be rare. Lt. Gov. Jon Husted, a former Secretary of State, testified in July 2017 before Trumps voter fraud commission that his office identified 153 irregularities in Ohio during the 2016 election, in which 5.6 million Ohioans cast presidential ballots out of 7.9 million registered voters. His office referred 52 cases for further investigation and prosecution, including 22 individuals who voted in more than one state.

The most recent high-profile example of voter fraud occurred in 2018 in North Carolina, where an ally of a Republican congressman was charged with overseeing the collection of absentee ballots and in some cases, filling them out. He was caught because elections workers quickly noticed the irregularities. The election was re-done.

During this weeks debate, Trump referenced some episodes of voting irregularities in key swing states. None were widespread in scope. And none of the states are performing the universal ballot mailings he says concern him.

In one case, in Pennsylvania, nine military ballots were discarded in a county Trump won in 2016 , prompting a U.S. Department of Justice investigation. The states Democratic Secretary of State said an early investigation suggests a new employee failed to recognize the envelopes contained ballots and opened them. The employee, who has been fired, then disposed of them rather than resealing the envelopes. Mistakes by voters who fail to cast their mail ballots correctly are a much larger potential problem in Pennsylvania, according to elections advocates there.

And another episode Trump referenced was in Wisconsin, where three trays were discovered in a ditch earlier this month. Postal service officials initially said the trays included several absentee ballots. Wisconsins top elections official said Thursday no ballots were included, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported.

A final instance Trump referenced was in West Virginia. A mailman there pleaded guilty to changing voter affiliations for eight voters over the summer. Trump is expected to win the state easily.

An earlier version of this story incorrectly stated Nevada has nine electoral votes. It has been corrected.
The Concerned Citizens of the Volta Region (CONCIVOR) is unhappy with the recent disturbances of the secessionist group, Homeland Study Group Foundation, which is calling for a Western Togoland.

According to the citizens, the actions taken by the secessionists in their quest for independence of Western Togoland is utterly condemnable.

In a statement, CONCIVOR threw its weight behind chiefs and other traditional authorities in the Volta Region who have expressed disgust at the latest developments.

Meanwhile, the President, Nana Akufo-Addo and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have been urged to take immediate steps to remedy the situation and save Ghanas democracy.

Below is the full statement by the group:

PRESS RELEASE BY CONCERNED CITIZENS OF THE VOLTA REGION (CONCIVOR) ON ATTACKS BY UNIDENTIFIED GROUPS ON THE 25TH SEPTEMBER, 2020 AND SUBSEQUENT ATTACKS

The members of the Concerned Citizens of the Volta Region (CONCIVOR) have in the past days been following the unfortunate and very worrying developments in the Volta Region of the Republic of Ghana just months to the general election on December 7, 2020 and wish to state unequivocally that, we condemn in no uncertain terms, the violent activities of an amorphous group, under the guise of fighting for the independence of Western Togoland. The impression being created is that, the Western Togoland as it may have existed historically, encompasses the territory now known as the Volta Region of Ghana.

Since the first audacious attack by this amorphous group in the early hours of 25th September, 2020 on the sovereignty of the Republic of Ghana and on the peace-loving people of the Volta Region for that matter, there have been swift and unreserved condemnations by the chiefs of the Volta Region. Particular mention is made of the Volta Regional House of Chiefs which is the constitutionally designated umbrella body of all chiefs in the Region, the Awomefia of the Anlo State, the Battor Traditional Council, the Asogli State, the Gbi-Hohoe Traditional Area, the Alavanyo Traditional Area, the Office of the Paramount Chief of Peki, and many other groups and individuals including security experts.

We are by this statement associating with the position of the chiefs across the Volta Region and especially that of the Volta Regional House of Chiefs expressed in a release to the media, dated 27th September, 2020 in which the traditional rulers did not only condemn the attacks and underscored the peaceful character of the people of the Region, but also called on Government to conduct an independent and transparent investigation into the events of 25th September, 2020. We also associate with the recount by the House of Chiefs, of certain unfortunate comments and conducts directed at the people of the Volta Region which as they note, are not only troubling but have negative consequences on the people of the Region.

While it is not clear yet the exact group that is responsible for these reprehensible and objectionable violent acts in the Region and their exact motives, the concerned citizens of the Region consider that Government with all the security apparatus at its disposal can and should unravel the facts and uncover the faces behind these acts and to bring them to face the full arm of the law. The spill-over effects of this localized issue can be dire for the entire Republic and could bring its image as a beacon of democracy into disrepute.

We also believe that to fully resolve the issue arising and threatening the peace and security of Ghana, the Government must as a matter of necessity engage the chiefs and other traditional heads in the various communities where the troubles are being fomented. These engagements must be open, transparent and devoid of needless suspicion towards either side.

We note that the modus operandi of the group which so far has included taking hostages, attacking police stations, blocking roads and indulging in wanton destruction such as burning of State property raises serious doubts about the true intentions of these groups.

On the basis of the foregoing, we the Concerned Citizens of the Volta Region are convinced that these groups, whatever or whoever they are, entertain an agenda completely at variance with persons with true and good intentions for the Region. We, therefore, entreat the Government to treat these persons as criminals and view their acts as intended to upset the peace and democratic order of Ghana and to deal with them accordingly.

We hereby appeal to the ECOWAS, whose current head coincidentally is the President of the Republic of Ghana, the African Union and the United Nations to show keen interest in the matter as an early warning sign and take adequate measures to prevent another scar on the face of the world.

We also call on community watchdog committees to heighten alertness across the communities by sharing timeous intelligence/information for action.

Long Live Volta Region. Long Live Ghana.

.

A. SAPATI

COORDINATOR (024 470 5271)

Concerned Citizens of the Volta Region

Thursday, 1st October, 2020

CC: ALL MEDIA HOUSES

CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS

THE SPEAKER OF PARLIAMENT

COUNCIL OF STATE

PEACE COUNCIL

NATIONAL HOUSE OF CHIEFS

CHRISTIAN COUNCIL AND OTHER RELIGIOUS BODIES

DIPLOMATIC MISSIONS TO GHANA

UN OFFICE IN GHANA

AU OFFICE IN GHANA

ECOWAS OFFICE IN GHANA

EU OFFICE IN GHANA

COMMOMWEALTH SECRETARIAT OFFICE IN GHANA

---citinewsroom
Ocado is facing allegations that its robot-operated warehouse technology has infringed a rival company's patents.

The online grocery firm, which has built a surge in its market value in recent years on the sale of such systems, is being sued by Norwegian robotics company AutoStore.

It has filed lawsuits in both the US and UK to seek financial damages, which could run into hundreds of millions of pounds, and an end to Ocado's lucrative partnerships covering the rollout of the automated warehouse technology.

Ocado responded by saying it had not been notified about the legal action but indicated it would fight any such claims.

The Norwegian company argues that its storage system and robots are the foundation on which the Ocado Smart Platform was built on - adding that Ocado was a customer until 2012.

Chief executive and president of AutoStore, Karl Johan Lier, said: "Since 1996, AutoStore has developed and pioneered technology that has revolutionised retail storage and order fulfilment, and is driving the growth of online retail.

"Our ownership of the technology at the heart of Ocado's warehousing system is clear.

"We will not tolerate Ocado's continued infringement of our intellectual property rights in its effort to boost its growth and attempt to transform itself into a global technology company.

The UK firm, which has enjoyed a ten-fold rise in its market value over the past four years, saw shares fall by more than 8% following the revelation of the allegations but closed just 1% lower.

On Tuesday, its market value surpassed that of Tesco, the UK's largest grocery retailer, on the FTSE 100.

The company responded: "We are not aware of any infringement of any valid AutoStore rights and of course we will investigate any claims once we receive further details.

"We have multiple patents protecting the use of our systems in grocery and we are investigating whether AutoStore has, or intends to infringe those patents.

"We will always vigorously protect our intellectual property."
From his home base on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, Anton Andryeyev is running Twitter's efforts to chase Russian bots and other rogue actors off the platform. A year ago, he traded his office in the company's San Francisco headquarters for this tropical home office two thousand miles away, surrounded by standup paddle boards and a monitor large enough to see his entire 25-person engineering team all at once.

Andryeyev's remote office represents a sweeping experiment in the future of work: allowing white-collar workers to work from anywhere, forever.

Corporate America has long been defined by physical offices. But in a few short weeks, the pandemic upended that as thousands of companies mandated their employees work from home. What many thought would be a temporary workaround is now a mass experiment with no end in sight, as many companies await a vaccine or other developments to ensure workers' safety.

While many companies are anxious about the new reality, fearful of reopening and worried about the loss of workplace connection, some employers have embraced it - even going so far as making remote work permanent. Outdoor apparel company REI, Facebook and Ottawa-based Shopify have all announced some measures making work from home the new norm.

Twitter, the first major U.S. company to make a public announcement in May about its permanent work-from-home plans, has a big head start in identifying the pitfalls and advantages of work from home.

For the last two years, Twitter has been quietly dismantling its office culture, making changes that resulted in blessing employees like Andryeyev who asked to relocate - whether it was Hawaii, rural Ireland or back home in a cheaper state. However complicated, the official policy on employee relocation requests was "get to yes." The effort began with an off-the-cuff email in 2018 by chief executive Jack Dorsey in which he encouraged employees to work from home after a productive day doing so himself.

Twitter has been experimenting with building ways to better support Dorsey's vision ever since, sending people in the same building to different rooms to test out virtual meetings, creating sign language systems and other rules for video conference etiquette, and preparing for a future when the company anticipates half of its employees will permanently work from home. (Prior to the pandemic, it was only 3%.)

"We've already been on this path, and the crisis just catapulted us into a future state," said Twitter human resources chief Jennifer Christie, who said she believes flexibility for workers is the "fourth industrial revolution" because it will fundamentally change the way people work. "The future of work is offering employees more optionality."

Twitter's decision to allow its 5,200 primarily San Francisco-based employees to decide where they want to work has major implications for everything from its real estate and salaries to workplace culture writ large. The company could potentially usher in a new model for attracting and retaining talent based on worker-centric values of flexibility, autonomy and satisfaction.

Just this month, the company said it was subleasing three floors of its art deco office building in San Francisco (The company says it plans to keep all its real estate worldwide and two of the three floors were already subleased.)

But the decisions led by Twitter and followed by other companies could just as soon herald the end of an era when great ideas at work were born out of daily in-person interactions - a hallmark of Silicon Valley thinking. Apple founder Steve Jobs described it as the creativity that comes from serendipitous run-ins with colleagues, telling his biographer that "creativity comes from spontaneous meetings, from random discussions." The ideas for Facebook and Google were generated in a college dorm room and a garage near Stanford University, while Dorsey has said he came up with the idea for the short-form micro-blogging service while hanging out with his co-founders in San Francisco's South Park.

The result could be less innovative, more checked-out workers and empty tech hubs free of lunch-hour buzz.

Just six months after the coronavirus outbreak led thousands of companies to mandate that their employees work from home, 35% of the full-time U.S. labor force is still working remotely, compared to 2% prior to the pandemic, according to an August survey of 2,500 professionals by Nicholas Bloom, a Stanford University economics professor who specializes in distributed employment.

While accelerated by the pandemic, Twitter executives in exclusive interviews explained that the company's shift to distributed work is ultimately about creating a model that gives employees more autonomy and freedom, which they believe improves morale, retention and productivity. The policy, which is now one of four official company goals, also gives Twitter greater ability to hire diverse and more affordable employees from all parts of the country.

"Our concentration in San Francisco isn't serving us anymore," Dorsey told investors in February.

The company has had its share of challenges. Some Twitter employees are struggling with scheduling across time zones, and executives had to formally cut down on video meetings, which spiked as people went home during the pandemic, to avoid Zoom fatigue, executives and employees said in interviews. They had to rethink their performance review system so it wouldn't be biased against remote workers when people return to the office. Others said it was harder for employees to log on remotely during a recent major hack of the company's systems, in which high-profile accounts like former president Barack Obama's were taken over.

The biggest challenge, Mike Montano, the company's vice president for engineering, said, is "the need to create space for social connection" that isn't forced. Montano has been tweeting photos of his home office in San Francisco in hopes of inspiring others. He said you want to recreate "a water cooler effect," a serendipity that lets people build connections that "aren't transactional."

He plans to stay largely remote after the pandemic, coming into the office occasionally and spending longer stretches of time with family outside California.

- - -

When Twitter chose its current headquarters in 2012, a sprawling Depression-era art deco building that had fallen into disuse, the move was hailed as a victory for San Francisco. The city gave Twitter a 1.5% cut off its payroll taxes to move into offices near the Tenderloin, a struggling neighborhood 10 minutes from downtown.

At the opening night party for the new headquarters, Dorsey drank smoothie shots with staff on the rooftop deck overlooking the homeless encampments below. "Gorgeous," Dorsey tweeted that night.

For the next five years, thousands of Twitter engineers, product managers, designers, lawyers, and human resources professionals would stream into the headquarters each day, enjoying perks like daily catered lunches and corn hole boards.

Then in January 2018, Dorsey, who is known as a freewheeling thinker, fired off a late-night email that took everyone by surprise - even the company's own head of human resources. The email was originally written for his inner circle of senior executives, but he then unexpectedly forwarded it to the whole company. The subject line was "reflection."

"I decided to work from home today," he wrote. "I got a lot done, and felt more focused and creative. We should always optimize for where people feel their most creative, and I'd love to see us be a lot more flexible about working from home."

As long as people were setting the right expectations with their colleagues and getting their work done, it was "all good," Dorsey wrote.

Christie said her jaw dropped when she read the email, which appeared to be announcing a work-from-home policy she wasn't aware of.

She thought her mission, when she was hired in late 2017, was to improve retention, which was lagging because the social network had yet to become profitable six years after its public offering. At the time, Silicon Valley companies were competing for talent by offering some mix of massive salaries, the promise of contributing to a world-changing start-up and one-upping one another on office perks, like lavender lemonade and latte bars. Twitter had the latte bars, but it no longer had the allure of a start-up and couldn't offer the salaries of Facebook or Google.

Christie said her team was inundated with emails from confused employees asking what Dorsey meant. Because they didn't quite know, the team began to craft a plan to make working remotely much easier for all Twitter employees.

They surveyed the implications of various employee moves from legal, tax, IT and security, real estate and immigration perspectives. They looked into the tax consequences for workers who wanted to move to countries where Twitter wasn't authorized to operate. The security team began creating protocols for large numbers of people logging into company systems outside of headquarters.

Early on, the company's most senior executives realized the tone was going to be set from the top, so they started to model new behavior. In December 2019, Dorsey tweeted his own plans to move to Africa for three to six months in 2020 (though his plans have been set back by the pandemic). Two senior executives, Leslie Berland and Matt Derella, who were hired in New York City, were not asked to move to San Francisco.

Montano used 2019 as a virtual experiment. He started working from home one to two days a week, overseeing a team of 2,000 people from his home office in San Francisco. He and other senior leaders also used the year to visit all of Twitter's 35 offices around the world. He worked from New York last fall.

"In order to build a distributed team and decentralized company, I had to build empathy for what it was like not working from what people call 'the headquarters,'" he said, noting the company is already abandoning the term in favor of "SF Market."

He explained that in the office, he gets "pulled into the Tetris of meeting after meeting." Many engineers are introverts like himself who have their best thoughts when they are alone and able to work uninterrupted, he said.

To test out the experience of regular video-conferencing, Montano had team members video-conference via Google Hangouts one another from different rooms inside Twitter's headquarters.

Other teams collaborated on video conference etiquette, coming up with a manual of hand gestures and other protocols that could be used to signal when someone wants to pipe up in a meeting or needs to leave early. One protocol the engineers have established is the "silent read," in which every meeting starts with people reading a common document and putting their comments into a chat system alongside it. Another is the HR team's agreement to write the acronym ELMO - "Enough! Let's move on" - into a chat system when meetings veer off topic.

Twitter also established a policy of radical honesty when it came to virtual communication.

"Even if it seems like a very tiny thing, like [your colleague's] chair is squeaking and it's driving you insane, we want to hear about that. Because if you encounter it a thousands times, it's going to really wear on you," Andryeyev, the engineering manager in Hawaii, said. He moved a few months before the pandemic because he wanted to live in a peaceful place with more socioeconomic diversity.

Since Dorsey's 2018 announcement, things have also been messy. The WiFi of an employee who moved to rural Ireland conked out during an important presentation, forcing her to answer colleagues' questions using hand gestures. A manager delivered a harsh performance review without realizing the worker's spouse was in the background.

But all the preparation meant that when the pandemic came, Twitter was more ready than other companies. It sent a note encouraging employees to work from home March 2, one of the first companies in the United States to do so during the pandemic.

On May 12, Dorsey sent a companywide email, signed with a heart emoji, with the subject line "#lovewhereyouwork." "We're serious about a distributed workforce, and we've proved we can make it work," he wrote. "If you're in a role and situation that enables you to work from home and you want to continue, do so. . .forever if you want!."

Across corporate America, Twitter's announcement "sent HR departments scrambling," said Susan Strayer LaMotte, a former Marriott executive and chief executive of Exaqueo, a human resources consulting company. "They are talking to their lawyers, talking to their consultants, asking, 'Should we do this? Can we do this? How?' "

- - -

Soon after the announcement, Christie's team had already devised a policy to suspend performance reviews for the year based on feedback from struggling parents. It was also ready to offer financial compensation for child care and $1,000 for home workspace upgrades.

They came up with creative ways to help people socialize remotely during the pandemic, such as virtual cooking demos from colleagues and "story time" with workers' kids. But many people say building relationships without in-person encounters is still hard, particularly for new employees.

The biggest test of remote functioning was a major hack that hit the company this summer. Hackers who obtained access to internal employee credentials took over the accounts of dozens of celebrities, including Obama and Teslo chief executive Elon Musk, and used them to encourage people to buy bitcoin. Twitter employees were automatically signed out of their accounts, and some struggled to get back in to communicate with their colleagues, according to two people who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak on record.

The company says that during the hack, the difference between being in the office and at home was negligible.

But overall, employees say they feel more productive at home, according to the latest company survey in July. Nearly 70% of Twitter employees said in the survey that they want to continue working from home at least three days a week. Still, single and younger employees showed a preference for coming back to the office, while parents and older workers said they prefer to work from home.

Twitter insists the decision is not about saving money, and the company says it plans to keep all its office space globally for the time being. But the company will probably save money from hiring outside of San Francisco, which commands some of the highest worker salaries in the United States. Twitter says its wages will be competitive for the localities where they hire.

Dorsey, meanwhile, is working from his home in San Francisco but has gotten around. He was recently photographed on a boat in the Hamptons with Beyonce.

"Right now, no one is in the office and we're not missing out," said an employee who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of retribution. "But FOMO starts to happen when people come back to work, and it will be harder to stay out of the office."

Christie said the company's attrition rate is down double digits since 2017, which she attributes to a variety of factors including overhauled compensation packages, the company's profitability and, to a lesser degree, its flexible approach to relocation.

But a number of companies, including Yahoo, Bank of America, Aetna, Best Buy and IBM, have tried and ended telecommuting programs and called employees back to the office in recent years, citing lower productivity. Stanford's Bloom said it was hard to isolate work from home as a cause of lower productivity as opposed to other morale challenges.

Matt Mullenweg, chief executive of Wordpress's parent company and a longtime proponent of distributed work, said attrition dropped 20% and morale went up for his 1,200 employees after his company abandoned San Francisco and became a "distributed" firm in 2005.

Simon Sinek, author of several books on management, said many people "grossly misunderstand" what he described as Twitter's "progressive" approach. "Their policy isn't working from home. It's letting people work where they feel most productive," he said. "They don't need to ask permission. They don't need to feel guilty."

For years, he said, companies, led by Silicon Valley, have been obsessed with superficial perks. But Twitter is doing something that is more meaningful. Instead of perks or other superficial tactics, he said, "You are now competing on satisfaction."
Virus Outbreak Trump (Copyright 2020 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

A member of the right-wing hate group Proud Boys was arrested in Oregon the morning after the first presidential debate, in which Donald Trump declined to disavow white supremacy, for assault and weapons charges resulting from a confrontation he had with protestors in August.

Alan Swinney, who Oregon Public Broadcasting identified as a member of Proud Boys and the far-right protester that pointed a gun at demonstrators in downtown Portland last month, was arrested on Wednesday morning on multiple assault charges. He also faced charges for unlawful use of a weapon and unlawful use of tear gas, stun gun or mace, the outlet reported, as well as pointing a firearm at another person.

The 50-year-old, who remains held at the Multnomah County Jail, was seen pulling out a gun during a clash with countrprotestors at the Multnomah County Justice Center on videos shared online from the 22 August rally.

Though he initially claimed he was cleared by officials of any wrongdoing during the violent clash, Swinney was reportedly arrested just hours after the president delivered a startling message to the hate group at Tuesday nights debate in Ohio: Proud Boys  stand back and stand by.

Somebodys got to do something about Antifa and the left, Mr Trump added, referring to the anti-facisct movement that does not have any organizational structure in the United States.

Alan swinney pulls a gun on the crowd. No shots fired. pic.twitter.com/f0jKX6nmNv  Sergio Olmos (@MrOlmos) August 22, 2020

Jumping off Trump's "stand back and stand by" debate comment, Biden says his message to the Proud Boys and other white supremacist groups is "Cease and desist" https://t.co/Nj065CIsxp pic.twitter.com/QZ1KMixQSU  CBS News (@CBSNews) September 30, 2020

Mr Trump was asked to disavow white supremacy and white nationalist, extremist and other right-wing groups responsible for violence and violent clashes at nationwide protests with increasing frequency in recent months.

Story continues

The presidents close advisers have defended his debate performance, noting how he said sure when he was initially asked to disavow white supremacy.

However, Republican leaders on Capitol Hill were quick to distance themselves from the swift backlash that Mr Trumps comments sparked online, with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell saying in a statement that it was unacceptable not to condemn white supremacists.

Mr Swinney pointed a revolver at the counterprotestors as fights broke out in the streets just outside of the county justice center, Oregon Public Broadcasting reported, with videos showing demonstrators ducking behind barriers as he pulled out the gun. No shots were fired.

Answering questions from reporters the day after the debates in Ohio, former Vice President Joe Biden called on the Proud Boys to cease and desist while denouncing the presidents performance the night before as a national embarrassment.

The president of the United States conducting himself the way he did, I think it was just a national embarrassment, he said. My message to the Proud Boys and every other white supremacist group is cease and desist.

Thats not who we are, Mr Biden added about the Proud Boys. This is not who we are as Americans.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 1, 2020) - NxGold Ltd. (TSXV: NXN) ("NxGold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that, further to its press releases of September 9 and 11, 2020, the Company has closed a non-brokered private placement financing of units in the capital of the Company (the "Units") at a price of $0.50 per Unit, for gross proceeds of $3,200,000 (the "Offering"). Red Cloud Securities Inc. acted as a finder in connection with the Offering.

Pursuant to the Offering, the Company issued 6,400,000 Units for gross proceeds of $3,200,000, which reflects an increase to the Offering of 400,000 Units due to significant investor demand. Each Unit is comprised of one common share ("Common Share") of the Company and one-half of one whole common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one Common Share for a period of three years from the closing of the Offering at a price of $0.75 per Common Share.

Philip Williams, President and CEO, commented: "It's with great pleasure that we welcome dedicated uranium funds Segra Capital and Sachem Cove, as well as several other strategic and institutional investors from around the globe to the Company. The support we have seen from key players in the uranium space is a tremendous endorsement of our team and our model. The Company is now well-positioned, with over $5.5 million in the cash and investments, to execute on our plan to become a leading consolidator of uranium assets worldwide."

In connection with the Offering, the Company paid certain eligible persons (the "Finders") a cash commission in total of $104,615, equal to 7.0% of the gross proceeds of the Offering delivered by Finders and issued a total of 309,230 non-transferable broker warrants ("Broker Warrants"), equal to 7.0% of the Units delivered by Finders pursuant to the Offering. Each Broker Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one Common Share for a period of three years from the closing of the Offering at a price of $0.50 per Common Share. The net proceeds from the Offering will be used for general working capital purposes.

In connection with the Offering and for their services provided, the Company paid Red Cloud Securities Inc. ("Red Cloud") an advisory fee of $56,000, plus applicable sales taxes and issued Red Cloud 112,000 compensation options which entitles the holder thereof to purchase one Common Share at a price of $0.50 per Common Share for a period of thirty-six months.

All securities issued under the Offering are subject to a restricted period of four months from the date of issuance. The Offering is subject to the final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.

The Offering constituted a related party transaction within the meaning of TSX Venture Exchange Policy 5.9 and Multilateral Instrument 61-101 ("MI 61-101") as certain insiders of the Company subscribed for an aggregate of 280,000 Units pursuant to the Offering. The Company is relying on the exemptions from the valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 contained in sections 5.5(b) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, as the fair market value of the participation in the Offering by insiders does not exceed 25% of the market capitalization of the Company, as determined in accordance with MI 61-101. The Company did not file a material change report in respect of the related party transaction at least 21 days before the closing of the first tranche of the Offering, which the Company deems reasonable in the circumstances in order to complete the Offering in an expeditious manner.

Name Change

The Company is pleased to announce that effective October 5, 2020, the Company will change its corporate name to "International Consolidated Uranium Inc." The Company's new stock symbol on the TSX Venture Exchange will be "CUR", and the Company expects its common shares will commence trading under the new name and ticker symbol on or about market opening on or about Monday, October 5, 2020.

Mountain Lake Option Agreement

In addition to closing the Offering, the Company wishes to provide an update with respect to its press release on July 16, 2020, announcing that it had entered into an option agreement (the "Option Agreement") with IsoEnergy Ltd. (TSXV: ISO) to acquire a 100% interest in the Mountain Lake uranium project in Nunavut, Canada (the "Property"). The Company is working diligently to obtain all necessary regulatory requirements, including the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. In connection with the Option Agreement, and in accordance with TSX Venture Exchange policy, the Company intends to prepare a CIMVal Report on the Property.

About NxGold

NxGold is a Vancouver-based exploration company. The Company recently entered into options agreements with Mega Uranium Ltd. to acquire a 100% interest in the Ben Lomond and Georgetown uranium projects in Australia, and IsoEnergy Ltd. (TSXV: ISO) to acquire a 100% interest in the Mountain Lake uranium project in Nunavut, Canada. The Company entered into the Mountain lake option agreement with IsoEnergy on July 16, 2020 and the transaction remains subject to regulatory approval. In addition, the Company owns 80% of the Mt. Roe gold project located in the Pilbara region of Western Australia and has entered into an earn-in agreement with Meliadine Gold Ltd. to earn up to a 70% interest in the Kuulu Project (formerly known as the Peter Lake Gold Project) in Nunavut.

Philip Williams

President and Chief Executive Officer

NxGold Ltd.

+1 778 383 3057

pwilliams@nxgold.ca

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.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of any of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. 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 the securities laws of any state of the United States and may not be offered or sold within the United States (as defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act) unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or pursuant to an exemption from such registration requirements.

Cautionary Statement Regarding "Forward-Looking" Information

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. "Forward-looking information" includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to activities, events or developments that the Company expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future including whether the proposed acquisition will be completed. Generally, but not always, forward-looking information and statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes" or the negative connotation thereof or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved" or the negative connotation thereof.

Such forward-looking information and statements are based on numerous assumptions, including among others, that general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner, that financing will be available if and when needed and on reasonable terms, and that third party contractors, equipment and supplies and governmental and other approvals required to conduct the Company's planned exploration activities will be available on reasonable terms and in a timely manner. Although the assumptions made by the Company in providing forward-looking information or making forward-looking statements are considered reasonable by management at the time, there can be no assurance that such assumptions will prove to be accurate.

Forward-looking information and statements also involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors, which may cause actual events or results in future periods to differ materially from any projections of future events or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking information or statements, including, among others: negative operating cash flow and dependence on third party financing, uncertainty of additional financing, no known mineral reserves or resources, reliance on key management and other personnel, potential downturns in economic conditions, actual results of exploration activities being different than anticipated, changes in exploration programs based upon results, and risks generally associated with the mineral exploration industry, environmental risks, changes in laws and regulations, community relations and delays in obtaining governmental or other approvals.

Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking information or implied by forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or reissue forward-looking information as a result of new information or events except as required by applicable securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/65072
Is it poetic justice that Donald Trump is now cloistered inside the White House residence recovering from the coronavirus as he ends what historians may remember as the most damaging week of his presidency?

Of course, it is. The announcement early Friday that he and first lady Melania Trump have tested positive was shocking, but it was not surprising.

For months, Trump has been reckless, even criminally negligent, about the threat of the pandemic, and U.S. public health experts have estimated this lack of leadership has led to tens of thousands of avoidable American deaths.

So, yes, actions do have consequences  even for the Trumps.

But it is ironic this latest blow to his election campaign came only two days after one of his most dismal public performances as president.

Watching this weeks horrific U.S. presidential debate was for most of us like being plunged into a vat of hot tar with no route of escape. When will this torture end? we asked ourselves.

But for most Americans, it was much worse.

Widely regarded now as the worst presidential debate in living memory  with its constant shouting, insults and incoherence  it has turned into a national humiliation, exposing to the world the vulnerabilities of Americas democracy, the staggering decline of U.S. stature internationally and the inevitable consequences of having elected someone who behaves like a 21st century mob boss to the White House in 2016.

But imagine what it was like for Donald Trump himself, coming so close to election day.

Trump knows by now that he will lose Novembers election, probably by a wide margin. With the death toll from the pandemic at more than 200,000 Americans and an economy that has collapsed, voters are clearly turning against him, including in the key battleground states.

And Trump, however delusional that he often appears to be, must know that.

You could actually see it in his behaviour in Tuesdays debate  where he made virtually no effort to expand his electoral support.

It seemed clear that he felt it was time to play his final and most dangerous card.

Trump no longer appears to see Democratic challenger Joe Biden as his primary rival. To him, Biden is mere roadkill along the way to a more crucial target.

As four years of Trumps presidency have revealed, he sees Americas multicultural democracy  and all the institutions that support it  as his enemy.

In the debate, this meant his assault was not so much on Biden but, more importantly, on the integrity of the U.S. election itself, and the very notion of a free and fair vote.

In other words, no less than American democracy is in Trumps crosshairs.

In the event he loses the election outright on Nov. 3, which is likely at this point, Trump and the Republican party are trying to delegitimize the results through false claims of voter fraud, overt acts of voter suppression and the incitement of intimidating political violence.

As a final guarantee with a flurry of election-related lawsuits about to be filed, they will count on the courts  now stuffed with many Trump-appointed judges  to rule in their favour as the Republican-dominated U.S. Supreme Court did on behalf of George Bush in the 2000 presidential election.

In Tuesdays debate, Trump created outrage by refusing to condemn white supremacists and their role in stirring up recent political violence in U.S. cities. These groups have threatened to involve themselves in the monitoring of voting activities on election day.

Asked specifically about an extremist far-right group called Proud Boys, Trump appeared to endorse them: Proud Boys, stand back and stand by. But Ill tell you what, somebodys got to do something about antifa and the left.

Trumps comments triggered enthusiasm from far-right groups in the U.S., which his own Homeland Security Department has described as the most persistent and lethal threat in the homeland through 2021.

Immediately after the debate, Andrew Anglin, founder of the neo-Nazi website, the Daily Stormer, wrote: I got shivers  I still have shivers. He is telling the people to stand by. As in: Get ready for war.

In a presidency that has been chaotic and unpredictable since the day he took office, Trumps mood now appears grimmer. There is a look of desperation in Trumps latest moves as if, like a cornered animal, he senses his options for survival are narrowing.

If so, he is right. If Trump is no longer president as of next January, he wont be protected from criminal prosecution anymore, and he knows that the possibility of jail is quite real.

There is another reason for Trumps desperation to stay in office. In a bombshell exclusive this week, The New York Times revealed for the first time details of his income tax returns over the past two decades.

It showed that he paid no taxes in 10 of the previous 15 years, paid only $750 in taxes in 2016 and 2017 and  contrary to his claims as a successful billionaire  he lost more money in his business deals over the past 20 years than perhaps any American in history.

But The Times story also reported that Trump owes more than $400 million in personal debt that is coming due within the next four years  all within a second term as president if Trump is ever re-elected.

As some intelligence analysts have noted, this means that Trump is highly vulnerable to blackmail.

There was no indication in the income tax returns who, or which countries, hold Trumps debt, although there was speculation of Russian involvement.

As Eric Trump, one of the presidents sons, was reported as saying in 2014 when asked about the funding of Trumps business empire:

We dont rely on American banks. We have all the funding we need out of Russia.

Why should that not surprise us?

This column is edited from an Oct. 1 version to reflect breaking news.

Tony Burman, formerly head of CBC News and Al Jazeera English, is a freelance contributing foreign affairs columnist for the Star. He is based in Toronto. Follow him on Twitter: , formerly head of CBC News and Al Jazeera English, is a freelance contributing foreign affairs columnist for the Star. He is based in Toronto. Follow him on Twitter: @TonyBurman

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As COVID-19 and enforced lockdowns continue to impact peoples mental health, one in two managers surveyed said they feel an increased responsibility for their peoples mental health at work  with 47% highlighting the stronger need for mental health initiatives in the sector.

On the bright side, some employers have already taken action by implementing initiatives during the pandemic, with six in 10 employees surveyed claiming that their employers had already introduced mental health programmes. Meanwhile, 55% of managers said they or their organisation plans to implement mental health initiatives within the next 12 months.

We know that improved mental health in employees across all industries greatly benefits employers and their businesses. It positively impacts individuals productivity, talent retention, and, ultimately, business performance. Yet, the challenge now is to bridge the gap between awareness of mental ill-health in the workplace and taking action, said Julie Mitchell, the chief general manager of workers compensation at Allianz Australia.

Allianz is committed to empowering employers with the right knowledge, resources, and initiatives to better support employees facing mental health issues. Especially as we sadly anticipate seeing a rise in workers compensation psychological claims as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting its even more important for Australian workplaces to implement the required changes to tackle these challenges now and work to prevent them in the future.
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I grew up loving politics. At age 11, I watched my mom run for and win a city commissioner position in our small town in Ohio. In 7th grade, I wrote Ronald Reagan a detailed letter with my solution for lowering the national debt. In high school, I was active on student council, and by senior year, I was president. I also took part in the presidential classroom program, and I fell in love with our nations capital. It seemed to me that government was the way to make a difference in the world.

In my junior year of college, I applied for a White House summer internship. I asked a biology professor and a government professor to write my recommendations. The government professor wrote a luminous one right away, no questions asked. He even gave me a copy. The biology professor asked to meet with me, and she questioned me extensively why a science major would ever want to do such a program. I told her I thought I could make a difference, and I had some ideas for health care. She was very discouraging. I never did find out what she wrote in that letter, but I did not get the internship.

That is the time I stopped caring about politics. I figured my biology professor was right. Science majors do not belong in government. I began to follow politics sporadically, and I did not even vote in every election. I figured whoever won would still keep the trains running on time. I went to medical school, and I decided I could make a difference in helping people, one patient at a time. I have been doing that for the last sixteen years.

This year, however, everything has changed. With 202,000 Americans dying from COVID-19 thus far, the U.S.s fumbled response to the virus has been devastating. It is evident that science needs to be factored into policy decisions. Our country needs leadership that believes in medical experts and evidenced-based research. This month, for the first time in 175 years, the esteemed publication Scientific American was compelled to endorse a presidential candidate.

Furthermore, racial unrest in our country is a massive public health crisis. We need a leader who is committed to enacting meaningful actions to improve race relations. The forest fires in our Western United States further illustrate the immediate need for further environmental policies to combat climate change. 2020 is the year where scientists need to come to the table with politicians. The health of our country depends on it.

Sarah C. Smith is a family physician.

Image credit: Shutterstock.com
Playa del Carmen businesses no longer support 10th Avenue pedestrian project

Playa del Carmen, Q.R.  Businessmen along 10th Avenue have requested the mayor reconsider the pilot project of turning the busy roadway into pedestrian-only.

The delegation of the Employers Confederation (Coparmex) has given its support to the Business Coordinating Council of the Riviera Maya (CCERM), making an energetic call on the government of Laura Beristain Navarrete to fully open Tenth Avenue to vehicular traffic and prevent it from becoming pedestrianized.

The request was made in writing earlier this week by both the Confederacion Patronal de la Republica Mexicana (Coparmex) and Consejo Coordinador Empresarial de la Riviera Maya (CCERM) who have called the project they once supported, a suicidal act.

The business councils have requested an immediate reopening of the street to vehicular traffic 24-hour-a-day, seven days a week and discontinue the afternoon closure to vehicles, making it pedestrian only.

In their letter, the Coparmex Quintana Roo Business Center requested from the mayor the immediate reopening of avenida 10 norte (Tenth Avenue) to vehicular traffic, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so as not to transform Av. 10 in pedestrian or restricted traffic roads.

The request was made due to the onset of the health contingency, which has generated severe economic damage. During the pandemic, 10th Avenue, along with the entire center of Playa del Carmen, was closed to prevent mobility and infections, however, during the recent economic recovery process with the yellow light, the business sector considers it a suicidal act to think of closing this avenue to vehicular traffic, which they point out, is the backbone of the supply of hundreds of businesses on Fifth Avenue and perpendicular streets to the beach area.

They added that the partial closure of Tenth Avenue, added to the economic crisis caused by the slowness and poor quality of the remodeling work of Fifth Avenue and Founders Park, has affected the economy of small and medium-sized businesses in the area, generating heavy economic and job losses.

Coparmex partners, including Sergio Leon, president of Coparmex Quintana Roo, supports the refusal to convert this road into a pedestrian area of the CCERM that brings together the most important associations, chambers, schools and business unions of Riviera Maya.

The proposal to transform 10th Avenue into a pedestrian avenue comes from the success of Fifth Avenue as a tourist walkway, and according to the municipality, had the endorsement of the majority of businesses.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 18:04:16|Editor: huaxia

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MOGADISHU, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- At least one person was killed and two others injured in Somalia's capital Mogadishu on Wednesday following a blast targeting the Somali security forces.

"So far we have established the death of one person and we are still investigating the circumstances of the attack," a security officer who did not want to be named told Xinhua.

Independent sources told Xinhua the blast which hit Black Sea in Hodan district was targeting plain clothes special security personnel in the area.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility but the militant group al-Shabab has carried out such attacks several times in the city.

Meanwhile, the special forces, Danab killed eight al-Shabab militants including two of the group's senior leaders during an operation in southern Somalia early Wednesday.

Ismael Mukhtar Omar, government spokesman said Danab forces killed Abdiaziz Awowe who was the group's intelligence officer in Lower Shabelle region and Abu Khattab who was head of logistics department alongside six other militants.

"Danab forces carried out an operation on the outskirts of #Leego, especially in Sahan-yarey village in Walan-weyn district, killing leaders including Abdiaziz Awowe who was al-Shabab's intelligence officer," said Omar.

The Somali forces later took control of the Leego area after al-Shabab, which has been fighting to topple the internationally-backed government, pulled out from the area.

The insurgents have stepped up their assault against the government and African Union Mission in Somalia bases across the south and central parts of the Horn of Africa nation. Enditem
Dozens of people are expected to gather outside the Lebanon County Courthouse Thursday afternoon in protest of the abuse and neglect authorities say led to the death of 12-year-old Max Schollenberger in an Annville home.

Although inspired by Schollenbergers death, the seven organizers of the Save and Protect Our Children March intend to raise awareness for missing and abused children, as well as child trafficking, according to the events Facebook page. About 40 Facebook users said they planned to attend.

A candlelight vigil was held for the 12-year-old Sept. 20.

To show that we care more than just sharing photo and viral posts on Facebook, we are going to show up in person, together and let everyone know we will no longer ignore the problem, the organizers wrote.

Demonstrations will meet at noon outside the Lebanon County Courthouse on the 400 block of South Eighth Street. After a march through Lebanon, they plan to drive to the Annville home in which Schollenbergers body was found May 26 starved, beaten and covered in his own feces, according to the organizers.

Max Schollenbergers father Scott Schollenberger Jr., 42, and his fathers fiancee Kimberly Maurer, 35, have since been charged with homicide.

Organizers said they will leave messages of support for Schollenberger outside the South White Oak Street home between 3:30 and 4 p.m. and stay for about an hour.

Schollenbergers death went shockwaves through Annville and the surrounding communities. Many people  including the familys neighbors  did not know Max Schollenberger existed, let alone that he was abused.

District Attorney Pier Hess Graf said the 12-year-old was kept for years in a dark bare room with the blinds duct-taped and shutters nailed shut. There was no electricity, toys or furniture, other than the bed on which Max Schollenbergers body was found, Graf said. She said police were called after Maurer told a neighbor about the 12-year-olds death.

Graf said Max Schollenberger never received medical care or attended school.

This tiny 12-year-old boy never knew the unconditional love from a family, Graf said during a press conference last month announcing the charges against Maurer and Scott Schollenberger. Max Schollenberger existed, she said. I will not call this living. He existed in a state of perpetual suffering.

The organizers of Thursdays event said Schollenbergers death compelled them to unite the community.

Weve all seen the height of child abuse, trafficking and sex offenses over the last few weeks, the organizers said. We have an obligation as humans to protect those who cant protect themselves.

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Robert J. Spitzer is distinguished service professor of political science at SUNY Cortland and the author of several books on the presidency, including President and Congress: Executive Hegemony at the Crossroads of American Government. He is a panelist on WCNY-TVs Ivory Tower.

Promises Made, Promises Kept! is President Donald Trumps campaign re-election slogan. In the height of the presidential campaign it is fair to examine this claim: What promises, and which ones did he keep?

Political scientists have long studied the presidential promise-to-performance ratio, and despite what cynics may think, winning presidential candidates really do try to carry out the promises they make during a campaign. When they dont, its generally because they are thwarted by opponents, or because changing circumstances necessitate changed positions. The other key fact about presidential promises is that major policy change must run through Congress. In recent years, presidents who have found their proposals stalled by an unfriendly Congress have increasingly turned to unilateral actions like executive orders, memoranda and proclamations. These actions are important but usually confined to redirecting the federal bureaucracy.

Presidents have greater success with Congress when both branches are controlled by the same political party, as was true for Trumps first two years, and for Barack Obamas first two years. Policy achievement is still possible when the opposition party controls one or both houses, but the art of compromise plays a much greater role. Above all, however, presidencies are defined by their priority policy goals.

The Wall

Trumps signature campaign promises began with building a great, great wall along the U.S.-Mexican border. He also repeatedly expressed sympathy for the children of undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. (confessing great love for the Dreamers). Democrats opposed a wall as expensive, wasteful and ineffective, but wanted to compromise if a wall deal included protecting the Dreamers. Three times in 2017 and 2018, Democrats offered a compromise bill that included $25 billion in wall funding and Dreamer legal relief. Trump could have had a deal but vacillated, ultimately rejecting the proposals, and the Republican-led Congress failed to act on a large-scale wall program. Using questionable funds reallocation, Trump managed to see about 300 miles of wall built (promptly breached in multiple places), much of it replacing existing dilapidated sections. Trump also insisted throughout the campaign that he would get Mexico to pay for the wall. To date, every foot of wall work has been paid for by American taxpayers.

Immigration

The failure to get an immigration bill from Congress pushed Trump to utilize executive orders. These actions, including a ban on immigration from the Mideast and some African nations, the deployment of U.S. troops to the Mexican border, changes in DACA rules and restrictions on refugee and student admissions, received much attention but were either delayed or stopped in the courts or had less actual effect in implementation. From 2016 to 2019, visas issued to prospective immigrants dropped 25 percent. Short-term restrictions were also imposed because of the pandemic.

Obamacare

Trump harshly criticized the Affordable Care Act  Obamacare  promising to repeal and replace it with great health care at a much lower price that would cost the United States nothing. Throughout his presidency, Trump has doggedly tried to repeal Obamacare. The House voted to do so but the Senate passed a pared down version of the House bill. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the narrower Senate bill would have meant 16 million people losing health insurance and annual insurance premium costs rising 20 percent per year for the following 10 years. The Trump administration did succeed in eliminating the financial penalty for those who fail to get health coverage, and it has pursued legal action to strike down the entire law. For all this time, however, Trump has never offered a serious plan to replace Obamacare or to reduce health care costs.

Tax cuts

Enactment of tax cut legislation by Congress in 2017 was probably Trumps most important domestic policy achievement. During the campaign, Trump said, Everybody is getting a tax cut, especially the middle class. It didnt quite work out that way. Nearly everyone received some benefit from the $1.6 trillion cut, but most of the money went to the very wealthy, with their share rising (and that for the middle class declining) over 10 years. The wealthiest 1% of taxpayers got an average tax cut of about $50,000, 75 times more than that for the bottom 80%. And its touted trickle down benefits have not materialized. The cost of the tax cut also undercut another Trump promise to get rid of the $19 trillion in debt.

Infrastructure

Trump promised to invest in badly needed national infrastructure spending, one area where partisanship normally takes a back seat to concrete benefits. The plan he offered in 2018, calling for over $1 trillion in spending, actually committed only $200 billion of federal money. The rest was to come from the states and private investors. Unsurprisingly, the plan landed with a thud.

Trade

Trumps most significant international agreement was his revision of the NAFTA agreement, renamed the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. It garnered bipartisan support in 2019 largely because, as Ohio Republican Sen. Rob Portman said, it looks more like an agreement that wouldve been negotiated under the Obama administration. It even won the endorsement of the AFL-CIO. Trump claimed a victory, but Democrats won on substance. Trumps China trade deal, signed to much hoopla, was mostly a show lacking any real progress. It essentially freezes the expensive tariff war Trump began, resetting the China-U.S. agreement to that reached by Obama in 2015.

Judiciary

Trump promised and delivered fully on one promise: to appoint conservative judges. Without question, Trumps three Supreme Court nominees will push the law in an even more conservative direction for decades. Yet this is presidential low-hanging fruit, as nominee approval rests solely with the Senate which mostly confirms presidential picks. With the conservative Federalist Society carefully scrutinizing every nominee in tandem with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnells elimination of procedural obstacles for judicial nominees, all Trump had to do was nod to Federalist Society picks as they strolled by.

Drain the swamp

Trump repeatedly promised to drain the swamp in Washington and propose a package of ethics reforms. But Trump never proposed serious ethics reform legislation. From the start of his administration, Trump set the ethical tone by refusing to do what past presidents and wealthy top appointees have all done for decades: divest themselves of their financial holdings or turn them over to blind trusts. Instead, he turned control of his business interests to his sons, an ethically unacceptable alternative. Trumps businesses have directly reaped millions from government spending and from foreign nations, as the New York Times expose on Trumps tax returns reported.

Moreover, extensive, flagrant and deep-seated corruption by Trump appointees has been chronicled in the departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Education, Energy, Health and Human Services, Homeland Security, Housing and Urban Development, Interior, Justice, Labor, State, Transportation, Treasury, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and the Environmental Protection Agency. Government inspectors general, who serve as ethics and corruption watchdogs, have been systematically fired when they called out corruption. Further, a 2019 study found that 281 lobbyists have worked in the Trump administration, amounting to one of every 14 political appointees. (Past administrations have hired lobbyists, too, but never approaching such numbers.) Far from draining the swamp, Trump has built a swamp palace of corruption in Washington. Without question, the Trump administration has been the most corrupt in American history  more corrupt than Nixon and Watergate, Harding and Teapot Dome, and Grant and Credit Mobilier.

Whether one supports or opposes Trump, this is a sad, sorry record. Was Trump hatred the real culprit? Hardly. Animus is the currency of American politics. The job of a leader is to get things done anyway, as have all of his predecessors. In Trumps case, he managed to sabotage his own initiatives by his own indifference, vacillation, erratic behavior, and by pointless insults of opponents and allies. Even Trump supporters admit he is often his own worst enemy.

As the dean of presidency scholars, George Edwards of Texas A&M, concluded, Trump was neither a reliable nor a skilled negotiator. . . . the most notable fact about Trumps legislative record is the absence of passage of significant presidential initiatives.
As the conflict escalates in the disputed territory of Nagorno-Karabakh, both Armenia and Azerbaijan have declared martial law and mobilised their male populations. For many young men, it means they will soon be heading to the front lines.

In Baku, the Azerbaijani capital, on Tuesday, dozens of young men gathered outside a military recruitment centre, eager to enlist in the country's forces fighting in Nagorno-Karabakh.

"I hope that we'll soon give you good news about Karabakh to the sound of Allahu Akbar. May God protect our army, victory is ours," Azerbaijani recruit Aziz Mirzayev told Reuters as he boarded a bus after enlisting in Baku.

There were similar scenes in Armenia's capital Yerevan a few days earlier, as reservist volunteers gathered to heed their country's call to arms.

"Today we, all the people, found ourselves in a difficult situation. We expected Azerbaijan to start a war, lately they've been talking about it all the time with their war rhetoric. And we gathered here to help, to go and support our army," Grigor Barekian, an Armenian volunteer, told AFP.

Nagorno-Karabakh, an ethnically Armenian enclave, has been the subject of a decades-long dispute between the two nations. Internationally recognised as part of Azerbaijan, it has been a de facto independent state since a bloody 6-year war ended in 1994.

The current wave of fighting erupted there on Sunday. Since then, dozens of people, including civilians, have been reported killed and hundreds wounded and rhetoric from both sides has led to fears of all-out war.

"This is a very proud feeling. Of course, as other devoted citizens of the republic, I do not regret going to fulfil this task wholeheartedly and through my own choice," Azerbaijani recruit Mirkamran Hashimli told AFP as he enlisted in Baku.

"I hope Karabakh is ours, it will be ours!"
World War II veteran Eldon Knuth, 95, poses for photographs after a ceremony where Army Maj. Gen. Laura Yeager presented him with the Bronze Star for his service in France during World War II. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

Eldon Knuth was trapped.

It was November 1944, and U.S. forces were fighting to liberate the heavily fortified French city of Metz from the Nazis.

When Knuth's battalion attacked the German-held Fort Jeanne d'Arc, he and about 30 other soldiers with the Army's 95th Infantry Division got stuck behind enemy lines, in the bitter cold, with meager supplies.

For five days, Pfc. Knuth, a 19-year-old Iowa farm boy, survived on military-issued chocolate bars called D-rations. His wet feet swelled as the trench foot that would trouble him for the rest of his life set in.

For their bravery, Knut and his fellow soldiers would come to be known as the Iron Men of Metz.

But on a warm afternoon this week, as the 95-year-old World War II veteran was awarded one of the U.S. Army's highest honors, he was treated as delicately as an ancient vase. Organizers of the ceremony at his Thousand Oaks retirement village, where Knuth received a Bronze Star, mounted a defense against an invisible but deadly new enemy: COVID-19.

"It was utter chaos," Knuth recalled of the Metz standoff. "Not very many men ... made it to the fort. Some were injured. Some died. Some just turned around because the fire from the Germans was so intense."

Only a handful of people were allowed at the retirement facility's first in-person gathering since the pandemic began. Everyone wore masks. People stood far from Knuth to pay their respects, and there were no congratulatory handshakes. Residents were encouraged to watch from their rooms on an internal television channel.

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime event. Normally, this would be standing-room only," said Dmitry Estrin, executive director of University Village, as he stood near the few dramatically spaced out chairs in a large event hall.

In accepting his Bronze Star, World War II veteran Eldon Knuth, 95, thanked his wife, Margaret, "my best friend." (Al Seib/Los Angeles Times)

For older people like Knuth, a slight man with bright blue eyes and thin white hair who leans heavily on a walker, the coronavirus has been especially devastating.

Story continues

That Knuth could have an in-person celebration at University Village, where he and his 94-year-old wife, Margaret, live with nearly 500 other retirees, meant a lot. He got the Bronze Star, which recognizes meritorious service in a combat zone, in the mail a month ago and figured that would be the end of it.

Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Robert Johnson, who volunteers working with older veterans, said Knuth had long qualified for the Bronze Star but that it had been overlooked, as was common with World War II veterans.

Johnson helped Knuth apply to receive his long-overdue award, which took more than a year to arrive, and arranged the University Village event.

"This ceremony is very special," Knuth said, wearing a black suit jacket adorned with military service medals. His voice was muffled by a black cloth mask with a University Village logo and the words, "I Wear This Mask to Protect You."

Over the last six months, life has changed a lot for the Knuths.

He was an avid swimmer who hit the pool five times a week to maintain circulation in legs badly damaged by the cold, wet weather during the Battle of Metz. He was devastated when the pandemic closed both the University Village pool and gym for several weeks, and he now has to make appointments to exercise.

He and Margaret don't socialize much, eating in their villa instead of in the dining hall with friends. They don't see their six children as often. And they worry about catching COVID-19 during doctors' appointments.

"It's stressful," Knuth said. "If you go out, you have to worry about, 'Am I going to come back with the virus?'"

There have been a few cases of COVID-19 among residents on the sprawling campus, which includes an adjacent skilled nursing facility called OakView Health Center, Estrin said. But residents have been "great partners" with the safety protocols and have been successful at avoiding outbreaks, he said.

Tuesday's Bronze Star ceremony was a ray of hope after so many stressful months. Attendees said it was important to honor World War II veterans, whose numbers are dwindling.

At the 70th reunion of the Iron Men of Metz at Ft. Sill, Okla., last year  where Knuth was awarded the French National Legion of Honor Medal  there were only seven veterans. Fewer show up for each gathering, Knuth said.

"Our World War II veterans are becoming a rare sighting," Col. Gilbert Roldan, chief of staff of the California National Guard's 40th Infantry Division, said Tuesday. "It's a generation we're not going to be privileged to see anymore."

Roldan knows only three World War II veterans. During the pandemic, he said, he has been able to speak to them only by phone, so it was especially meaningful to attend Knuth's ceremony in person.

Maj. Gen. Laura L. Yeager, commander of the 40th Infantry Division and the first woman to lead an Army infantry division, said she "jumped at the opportunity" to present Knuth his Bronze Star. Coming three quarters of a century after his wartime service, she said, the award was "obviously overdue."

"With all we're dealing with in this country right now, this is a nice break, she said.

Eldon Knuth, wearing his Bronze Star and other medals, waves to friends after he was presented the Bronze Star Medal. (Al Seib/Los Angeles Times)

Wearing a mask as he sat at the front of the event hall, Knuth smiled as speakers  who cleaned the microphone between each speech  praised his valor and the full life he lived after the war. He was an engineering professor who taught for 35 years at UCLA, wrote more than 100 scientific papers and traveled the world with Margaret.

"We think we're living in trying times," Yeager told the audience. "And certainly the combined effects of pandemic, wildland fires, economic uncertainty, racial disparities and all the tensions that we face today are definitely rocking the state and the nation. But with reflection, we know that we have been through much worse."

Citing the old adage that when the going gets tough, the tough get going, she said Knuth "never stopped making the world a better place."

"Professor Knuth, you are tough," she said. "You are wicked smart. You are a lifelong learner, an adventurous traveler, accomplished genealogist, recognized researcher, prize-winning author, professor emeritus, mentor to others, dad, husband. You are an American hero."

Knuth pulled down his mask to smile as Yeager, still wearing hers, pinned the medal to his jacket. She took hers off for a few seconds to take a photograph, but not without first stepping away to keep a safe distance.

Handed a carefully wiped microphone, Knuth thanked Margaret, "my best friend."

Knuth's daughter-in-law, Carolyn Nicholson, 69, said she was delighted to celebrate him in person. They haven't seen each other much during the pandemic, and she drove more than two hours from Yucca Valley to attend.

"He's everything a Bronze Star should be," Nicholson said. "A wonderful man. Great intellect. A great inspiration to our family."

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.




SINGAPORE, Oct 1, 2020 - (ACN Newswire) - We are pleased to announce that we have strengthened our management with the appointment of Lawrence Lin as our new CEO, effective 1st of Oct 2020.Lawrence is a digital marketing professional with a background in programming and has been in the tech industry for over 10 years. He was one of Huobi Global's early employees and later became Head of Global Business in Singapore. After that, he became the COO and co-founder of Zipmex, a cryptocurrency exchange which has been expanded in Southeast Asia, and led the acquisition of licenses.Prior to entering the blockchain industry, he had a proven track record of successfully IPOing e-commerce companies' products and customers on ASX and implementing global digital initiatives on Standard Chartered. He has received various awards from marketing fields such as Marketing Excellence and Dragons of Asia.In welcoming Lawrence to the Moonstake Skateboard, Mitsuru Tezuka, Moonstake founder, comments: "We have very bold aspirations here at Moonstake. Lawrence's overall brief is one of growth, building on the strategy, mission, vision and values for business and users that will make Moonstake to create the largest staking pool network in Asia. He will be joining a highly ambitious team of individuals, and I've no doubt that his previous experience of, and leadership in, continuous improvement and transformation make him an incredible asset to our company."Regarding his new role as CEO, Lawrence said: "I am honoured and privileged to be appointed as CEO of Moonstake. Moonstake is expected to support the development and decentralization efforts of blockchain technology. Asia is always an important market for the blockchain industry and I would like to contribute to Moonstake's goal of creating Asia's largest staking pool network. At Moonstake, staking is one of the blockchain's signature features in the long run. That's why we want to work with industry leaders to strengthen our presence in different regions, while Moonstake provides better service to both coin holders and businesses. We are confident that we will become a global company through partnerships with players around the world."About MoonstakeMoonstake was recently established to develop a staking pool protocol to satisfy increasing demands in regional and global blockchain markets. Staking adopts Proof of Stake (PoS) as a type of consensus algorithm which allows cryptocurrency holders to increase the likelihood of receiving block rewards from its block validation transaction. It brings together the ability to stake and ultimately distributes block rewards based on contribution. Moonstake develops a staking pool protocol and provides business services through partners and companies. Staking is expected to help elevate the blockchain technology and work for decentralization. https://www.moonstake.io/Source: MoonstakeCopyright 2020 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved.
Now Open

1 October 2020

Capella Bangkok officially opens its doors today, becoming Capella Hotels and Resorts' first property in Thailand and introducing an elegant new era of authentic and award-winning hospitality to the Kingdom.

Situated within the prestigious Chao Phraya Estate, this luxurious urban resort now invites Thai residents to uncover the rich cultural heritage of Bangkok's most historic waterfront district and enjoy a glimpse into the soul of the city.

Master-planned by former Fosters + Partners duo, Andy Miller and Richard Scott Wilson, now lead architects at Hamiltons International, with interiors by celebrated tastemakers BAMO, Capella Bangkok offers 101 guestrooms, suites and villas, each of which boasts uninterrupted views of Thailand's revered river, along with world-class gastronomy, revitalising wellness and more, all underpinned by the highest levels of personalised service.

Guests can embark on inspiring epicurean journeys at Capella Bangkok. The highly-anticipated Cote by Mauro Colagreco is the first Southeast Asian outpost for Chef Mauro, the Italo-Argentinian culinary icon whose three Michelin-starred restaurant in France, Mirazur, voted number one in the world at The World's 50 Best Restaurant Awards in 2019, while Phra Nakhorn is an enchanting alfresco riverside dining destination that showcases the time-honoured Thai recipes of this storied district.

101 is a lucky number for Capella Bangkok; as well as promising 101 alluring waterfront accommodations, the hotel opened its doors on 10.1 - October 1st. To celebrate this auspicious occasion, the boutique sanctuary has launched "Capella Bangkok 101", an immersive new package that lets Thai nationals and expats experience all of the hotel's most enticing amenities.
Challenger buy now, pay later operator Limepay has appointed advisers and is eyeing an ASX listing, hoping its unique offering will help it snatch merchant customers from incumbents such as Afterpay and Zip.

Limepay was launched in 2016 as a bespoke offering for the nascent buy now, pay later (BNPL) space. The company allows retailers to operate their own BNPL platform, providing them with the framework that can then be branded as the retailer's own.

Limepay founder Tim Dwyer and chief revenue officer Dan Peters are gearing up for an IPO. Credit:

It is a different model to that of large BNPL companies such as Afterpay, which market their service to companies as an alternative checkout option, a differentiation co-founders Tim Dwyer and Dan Peters and hopes will give Limepay an edge in the hyper-competitive sector.

"Fundamentally we are a merchant-first, white-label solution as opposed to a third-party solution," Mr Peters said. "We don't own the customer relationship, we don't market to customers, we're not a marketplace."
Audience: Mark Lutton is still in the mix to win Great British Bake Off

A Northern Ireland man has played his part in a small slice of history for Channel 4.

Ratings for the launch episode of the latest series of The Great British Bake Off, featuring Portadown's Mark Lutton, were the biggest for any programme - excluding films - to be shown on the channel since 1985.

According to the broadcaster, consolidated viewing figures for the series 11 debut were 10.8m.

It was also the biggest overnight launch audience for the series since its move from the BBC, with overnight ratings averaging 6.9m viewers. The TV premiere of the film Four Weddings And A Funeral on Channel 4 in 1995 attracted a higher audience of 12.4m.

The biggest-ever audience in Channel 4's history remains 13.9m, which was for the mini-series A Woman Of Substance in 1985.

The first episode of the new Bake Off series saw comic Matt Lucas make his debut on the programme as he replaced previous co-host Sandi Toksvig.

The episode, which started later than originally scheduled to avoid a clash with an address to the nation about coronavirus from the Prime Minister, opened with a skit which featured Lucas impersonating Boris Johnson. The Little Britain star (46) appeared wearing a blonde wig and stood at a lectern featuring the slogan: "Stay Alert, Bake Cake, Save Loaves."

Last week Loriea (27), a diagnostic radiographer from Durham, became the first amateur baker to be axed from the competition.

On Tuesday Mak (50), an accountant from Greater Manchester, was also eliminated after failing to impress judges Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith.

But fans of the show could not believe eccentric music teacher Rowan had escaped leaving the tent by the skin of his teeth.

As he exited, Mak said: "I just felt it in my bones it was me. I know I gave it everything. It was a privilege to be here."

For Mark, though, the competition continues.

He ended up placing second in the technical, losing out on the top spot to Dave.

Now based in Liverpool, the 32-year-old fell in love with baking through an Edinburgh pie shop he visited daily while at university.

Production of the 11th series was initially delayed because of the coronavirus pandemic, but filming finished near the end of August.

The bakers, presenters and others working on the programme formed a "bubble" in Down Hall Hotel near Bishop's Stortford in Hertfordshire throughout the duration of filming, after being tested for the virus and self-isolating for a period of time.
The legal battle over the mechanics of absentee mail-in voting in South Carolina is one of two voting cases Republicans have appealed to the Supreme Court in the weeks before the Nov. 3 contest. Earlier this week, Pennsylvanias Republican legislative leaders asked the justices to block a decision to count ballots received by mail up to three days after Election Day.
The Adelanto Immigration and Customs Enforcement Processing Center, a detention facility in San Bernardino County, is run by a private company and has been the subject of many sexual assault complaints. (Associated Press )

In immigrant rights circles, it is common to hear the phrase abolish ICE, a sentiment that has grown stronger with every new abuse.

A whistleblower recently filed a complaint about a gynecologist in Georgia performing hysterectomies on migrant women in the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement without fully informed consent. Women from the same immigration detention center in Georgia have also reported being subjected to unnecessary gynecological procedures.

These are alarming allegations, but in some ways not entirely unexpected with an agency where negligence and cruelty are a daily occurrence. We should understand that ICEs mission, rooted in anti-terrorist efforts, is bound to produce inhumane treatment of migrants unless it dramatically changes course.

Ive been studying Mexican immigration for the last two decades, and over this time Ive seen migrants increasingly treated as criminals subject to humiliation and brutality.

For most of the 20th century, it was the Immigration and Naturalization Service that policed the border, periodically showing force in workplace and community raids that led to deportation. At other moments in this history, INS agents worked with employers to selectively enforce border policy, ensuring that there were sufficient Mexican laborers to keep the agricultural industry afloat.

The ebb and flow of border enforcement and deportation began to change in the late 1990s with initiatives to increase the militarization of the border. After the Sept. 11 attacks, U.S. immigration policy shifted dramatically. In 2003, when the INS was replaced by the Department of Homeland Security and its agencies  ICE, Customs and Border Protection, and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services  immigration issues were folded into a new mission of national security: the removal of criminal aliens.

Migrants who had been coming from Mexico for generations to work were now being treated as suspected criminals. We saw this most acutely in late 2005 when the House of Representatives passed HR 4437, which, if passed by the Senate, would have made it a felony to reside in this country without papers. The bill led to some of the biggest immigration marches in the country, with protesters carrying signs that read, We Are Workers, Not Criminals and Immigrants Are Americas Workers.

Story continues

Migrant detention, which barely existed 50 years ago, grew rapidly during the early 2000s and became a key part of the Obama administrations immigration deterrence policy. That administration imprisoned migrant women and children and refugees in ever greater numbers while they waited for their cases to be reviewed by immigration courts. Some migrants were held for years behind bars. All of it was done in the name of protecting the nation from dangerous criminals.

The irony, of course, is that the Obama administration also made provisions for Dreamers by putting in place the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program in 2012. The fact that those children and many high-achieving undocumented young people were and are being raised by families and communities filled with people labeled criminal migrants is not lost on many DACA recipients.

Things have gotten worse after the Trump administration took over the reins of the Department of Homeland Security. Trump campaigned on a premise of protecting our borders and characterizing Mexican migrants as drug dealers, rapists and criminals. Since his election, he has used ICE and Customs and Border Protection to punish migrants, the undocumented and those seeking refugee status.

The conditions of detention continue to worsen. In 2017, a nonprofit group filed a complaint against the Department of Homeland Security for sexual assault, abuse and harassment in ICE detention facilities. The Adelanto detention facility in San Bernardino County was listed among the top five facilities in the country with the most sexual assault complaints.

In 2018, people all over the country watched in horror as ICE agents forcibly removed migrant children from their parents at the U.S.-Mexico border. Audio recordings of children crying for their parents and images of kids in cages caused a moral dilemma partially resolved by courts that ordered reunification. But many of these families, though reunited with their children, remain in detention. The cruelty of their condition was revealed in heartbreaking drawings by migrant children released by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

The recent whistleblower complaint has prompted a call for an immediate investigation by more than 170 members of Congress. It demonstrates yet again the shortcomings and failures of the Department of Homeland Security and ICE. We need an agency that understands this countrys complex immigration history and the needs of our communities. Central to that mission should be treating migrants with basic human rights.

Jennifer R. Najera, an associate professor and department chair of ethnic studies at UC Riverside, is the author of The Borderlands of Race: Mexican Segregation in a South Texas Town.





This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A reminder that red state life is getting rough . . .



Checkit:



A Kansas woman has been sentenced to life in prison for decapitating her ex-boyfriend's mother with a pair of kitchen knives WICHITA, Kan. -- A Kansas woman has been sentenced to life in prison for decapitating her ex-boyfriend's mother with a pair of kitchen knives.
ABOARD JOE BIDEN'S CAMPAIGN TRAIN - Out the window on the ride through eastern Ohio and western Pennsylvania on Wednesday, Joe Biden could see changing leaves, farms and tributaries - and at some stops, people, lots of them.

The whistle-stop tour though two states that Hillary Clinton lost in 2016 evoked a sense that hasn't often been felt this campaign season: normalcy. After months of virtual events and Zoom fundraisers, it was a regular day on the Biden presidential campaign.

It was all the more striking because Biden and his wife, Jill, boarded their charter Amtrak train the morning after the most caustic presidential debate in modern history, with Biden on the receiving end of many interruptions and insults from President Trump, and delivering some of his own.

But once aboard, Biden presented himself as something quite different: a candidate back on the trail, and more than anything nostalgic for time lost when he sharply curbed his events due to the novel coronavirus.

"I love being on the train," Biden told reporters, leaning back and giving photographers a money shot of the candidate in action.

At each of six stops after a send-off in Cleveland, Biden offered some version of his stump speech, delivering similar ideas before vastly different backdrops. At times he attracted crowds that, while masked, did not follow the social distancing that has marked other Biden events.

In Alliance, Ohio, speaking on a gravel patch next to the tracks, he said Trump campaigned for the "forgotten" men and women. "But once he got into office he forgot about them," Biden said.

In Pittsburgh, speaking at the city's soaring, covered Amtrak platform, Biden said Trump left a "trail of lies" through the industrial Midwest as he abandoned promises he'd made in 2016. (The Trump campaign did not respond to a request for comment.)

Later in the day, in New Alexandria, Pa., speaking in front of a yellow tractor and a dump truck at a union training facility, Biden reminisced about traveling from his home in Wilmington, Del., to Washington during his decades in the Senate, racking up what he said were more than 2 million miles on Amtrak.

"I used to, literally, look out that window and sit there and see the lights on in the houses," Biden said in New Alexandria. "I'd wonder - do they have the same kinds of conversations at those tables like I did?" he said, recounting family discussions about whether new tires or a new water heater would cost too much.

Biden's trip was officially called the "Build Back Better Express," after the title of his recovery plan. It could just as well have been called the "close the margins tour," as he journeyed through rural areas and towns where Clinton lost by wide margins to Trump.

"A lot of people around here voted for Donald Trump last time, and I understand why," Biden said at one point in New Alexandria. He did not finish the thought.

Biden referred to the previous day's events a few times, most memorably at the stop in Alliance, when he called Tuesday night's debate a "national embarrassment."

Normal campaigning can feel a little odd after all those months spent mostly campaigning virtually. Biden hadn't had a day this busy since he essentially sewed up the nomination in March, and it showed.

As he was speaking in Cleveland, a freight train pulled out of the yard, honking, and Biden went a little off-track. "Here comes the train that he's trying to make sure you . . ." Biden said, his words, with no clear destination, becoming inaudible as the train honked louder.

Later, in Alliance, he referred to the debate in an unusual way. "Tables like the one that we saw last night were ones that were set by Trump," Biden said. It was not clear what he meant.

But the big surprise was the crowds. Collectively, Biden saw bigger crowds Wednesday than he has since in-person campaigning was paused. In Alliance, several hundred gathered as he spoke. In Greensburg, Pa., hundreds chanted, "Let's Go Joe! Let's Go Joe" and cheered when he walked off the train and waved to them. A few dozen Trump supporters showed up too, and surged forward as he waved to his supporters.

Harriet Ellenberger, 77, was among a handful of people who greeted Biden as he stepped off his train in Greensburg. "After last night's episode on TV, I was so depressed that I thought I should really come out and show him support," Ellenberger said.

Ed Farley, who wore a yellow "Firefighters for Biden" shirt, cheered for the candidate in Pittsburgh. "He's saving the country right now," Farley said, explaining why he came out to see Biden. "I have young daughters."

But there also were more intimate moments that allowed Biden to connect with people. Before boarding the train, he chatted briefly with the conductor, Don Lewis, who later said that he was star-struck by the former vice president. The conductor worked on trains for more than four decades - and this was his final trip before retiring.

During various segments of the trip Biden rode in a diner car with select people invited by the campaign. Visitors included Thomas Conway, the president of the United Steelworkers, who told Biden that he'd just cast his ballot for the former vice president.

"Let's just call the race right now," Biden joked.

Some visitors had difficulty hearing Biden through his black cloth mask. It kept dropping below his nose; finally he lowered it so the men could hear him.

Biden discussed his love of Italy. "When I die, I want to be reborn on the Amalfi Coast," Biden said. Then he shifted gears. "How are you doing?" he asked. "How's business?" One man lamented the difficulty of finding health care.

The chartered train had two engines, in case one broke down. The working engine pulled other seven cars - four passenger cars, a working cafe car, a dining car to which Biden invited reporters to listen in on some of his chats and "the president's car," where Biden and his top aides rode. That car featured a special glass back, giving Biden a spectacular view of the passing landscape. His team hammed it up a bit, distributing plastic identification cards designed like Amtrak tickets to riders.

At one stop before Biden's remarks, he was asked jokingly if he used Amtrak points to pay for the charter train. He quipped that he has enough points to do it - but wanted to save them for a trip after the election is over. Asked if he was sitting in a quiet car, he just laughed.

The continuing pandemic insured that not everything was back to normal. Everyone onboard was asked to wear N95 masks, not simple cloth ones. The team distributed little bottles of hand sanitizer. They were branded "Build Back Better."
The truck driver charged over the deaths of four police officers in a crash on the Eastern Freeway has also been accused of supplying drugs to a child in the weeks before the collision.

Mohinder Singh, 47, was initially charged with four counts of culpable driving causing death in the days after the April 22 crash.

Mohinder Singh. Credit:Nine News

He faced court on Thursday for the first time since police charged him with 33 additional offences in August.

Court documents released on Thursday show Mr Singh has been charged with an array of drug-related offences, including the alleged supply of cannabis to a child in Noble Park between April 4 and 5.
Bankrupt coal firm Blackjewels battle in federal court entered its final stretch last week when attorneys for the insolvent company presented a plan for exiting Chapter 11 bankruptcy. But the plan leaves many questions unanswered, including the status of unpaid debts, workers compensation and the future of several idle coal sites.

Blackjewel operated two Wyoming coal mines before it barreled into bankruptcy in the summer of 2019, leaving hundreds of miners out of work for months. Though the Eagle Butte and Belle Ayr mines have since come back online under new ownership, Blackjewels turbulent bankruptcy case has continued slogging through court. Several outstanding issues  from unclaimed mining permits to allegations of fraud and feuds over multiple debts  have prevented the debtors from formally closing the case.

When the company petitioned for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2019, it did so with a mountain of debt owed to multiple levels of government, not to mention myriad outstanding promises to workers, suppliers, banks and other companies it did business with.

Some of these disputes have been sorted out over the past 15 months, but the majority hinge on the outcome of Blackjewels exit plan. A bankrupt company must have a formal exist plan outlining how the firm will settle creditors claims and tie up other lose ends.

But Blackjewels proposed plan has left many involved parties puzzled, with several wondering how much money will even be available to distribute to the hundreds of creditors Blackjewel owes.

My sense is that there will be very little cash, Joshua Macey, a University of Chicago law professor, said of the potential funding available to settle creditors claims at the end of the bankruptcy. But its really hard to know at this time.

Though attorneys for the debtor held sales for Blackjewels 32 coal mines across the country last summer, the winning bids were limited and some mines didnt sell. According to the proposed plan filed in court on Friday, a trustee will attempt once again to sell the remaining mines. But investors waning appetite for coal, due in part to depressed market conditions and steep environmental liabilities that can come with them, could repel potential buyers.

That said, ongoing litigation over former Blackjewel CEO Jeffrey Hoops alleged fraudulent activities could eventually bring in some cash for the debtors estate. But the returns from these efforts remain uncertain.

This is a company that hasnt made money in over a year now, said Shannon Anderson, an attorney for the Powder River Basin Resource Council who has been closely following the case. Its not like theyre getting more money; in fact theyre losing it every day that lawyers and other financial advisers get paid off the bankruptcy estate. Its just a mess.

Trust funds

Though relatively elusive in its details, what Blackjewels exit plan does include is a proposal to set up both a reclamation trust and a liquidation trust using what remaining assets Blackjewel might have.

The reclamation trust would be used to fund cleanup efforts at some of Blackjewels more than two dozen coal mines out east. The insolvent coal company could not find interested buyers for several of its mining operations. Many sites remain idle and have become severe environmental liabilities for local communities.

The liquidation fund would be a pot of money distributed to settle creditors claims. That is, if there is any money left over.

Even the group known as secured creditors, which typically receives repayment of its debts in a bankruptcy case before anyone else, could come out at a loss. Blackjewels plan estimated secured creditors, like attorneys and lenders, have a 0% to 100% chance of recuperating their lost expenses.

Earlier this month, attorneys reached a tentative, $7.3 million settlement in a class action lawsuit filed by the 1,700 miners impacted by Blackjewels sudden bankruptcy. The settlement, if approved, would mean about 1,700 miners could receive 60% of about two months of their wages recouped, in addition to recouping the equivalent of up to eight days of work. But, again, there need to be sufficient funds at the end of the day.

I think (the plan) confirms that this company right now is creating major problems for pretty much everybody that its been involved with, Anderson said.

A select group of parties owed money will need to vote to approve the terms of the plan before the company can formally emerge from bankruptcy and distribute any remaining assets to the creditors it owes. Other parties involved in the case can also file objections to the plan.

Judge Benjamin Kahn in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of West Virginia will ultimately need to approve the plan.

The deadline for voting on the proposed plan is Dec. 10.

Follow the latest on Wyomings energy industry at @camillereports

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Dozens of protesters demanding the release of ethnic Mongolians arrested in China for criticising a controversial language policy rallied in the Mongolian capital Thursday, days before a visit by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

The country of Mongolia neighbours China's province of Inner Mongolia, which has seen weeks of protests and school boycotts over a policy requiring schools to teach politics, history, and literature in Mandarin rather than the local language.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will stop in Ulaanbaatar during an Asia tour next week that also includes Japan and South Korea but omits China.

Some protesters -- wearing facemasks as a precaution against the coronavirus -- were dressed in traditional Mongolian outfits and carried banners showing pictures of alleged Chinese atrocities against ethnic Mongolians.

Pompeo has previously criticised China's coercive attempts to assimilate local minorities into the dominant Han population.

Ethnic Mongolians in China and elsewhere fear the move -- which limits the opportunity to use Mongolian in schools -- will lead to the language's extinction.

Chinese Foreign minister Wang Yi's visit to Mongolia last month was also overshadowed by protests.

"During the Wang Yi's visit Mongolian leadership should have spoken up and stated that China must release the arrested Inner Mongolians," protester Elbegdorj told AFP.

Rallies in Inner Mongolia last month were the largest seen for decades, but a crackdown was swift, with armoured vehicles surrounding schools in some areas.

Police also offered cash bounties for leads on ringleaders and publicised the arrests of dozens of suspects accused of gathering signatures and sharing dissenting messages on WeChat.

The clampdown echoes Beijing's moves in Xinjiang and Tibet, where similar policies to assimilate local minorities into the dominant Han population were implemented in line with Xi's vision of national and ideological unity through cultural identity.

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"Obtaining an education in its native language is universally recognised human rights," protest organiser Zolzaya Nyamdorj said.

"China is violating those rights."

str-prw/apj/fox
Chennai, Oct 1 : The Tamil Nadu Thowheed Jamaat (TNTJ) will protest across the state against the Lucknow CBI Special Court's judgment acquitting the 32 accused in the Babri Masjid demolition case for want of evidence, said an official.

"We will hold protest on Thursday and Friday. On Thursday the protest will be in Chennai where large number of people from our community will participate. On Friday the protests will be held in other parts of the state," B. Abdul Rahman, Vice President told IANS.

He said that in Chennai the protest will be near the Collector's office in Mannady.

On Wednesday a CBI court in Lucknow acquitted 32 persons in the Babri Masjid demolition case on that grounds that the demolition was spontaneous and not due to any conspiracy.

Rahman said that the judgement has shattered confidence in the courts.

Despite the self-confessions of perpetrators, numerous videos of the Babri Masjid demolition, the acquittal of all the culprits have shattered the confidence of the Indian courts, said TNTJ in a statement.

It is a great injustice for the courts to claim that there is insufficient evidence to convict the accused on Babri Masjid demolition, the organisation added.

Muslims living in India have always relied on the Constitution of India, democracy and the courts. But the verdicts in the courts are undermining the confidence over the courts for not only Muslims but the entire Indian population.

Also, the verdict in the Babri Masjid demolition case has shattered Indian democracy and constitutional law, the organisation added.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
New Delhi, Oct 1 : The Supreme Court on Thursday declined to entertain a PIL that alleged that the Covid-19 pandemic is a human created genocide and urged the top court to issue directions to the World Health Organization (WHO) and China.

A bench headed by Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and comprising of Justice Hrishikesh Roy told the petitioner-in-person Raman Kakkar, "You may be a doctor, but not a lawyer, which is evident from the prayers in the PIL." The petitioner had moved the top court seeking to pass directions against the WHO officials, who failed to prevent the spread of Covid-19 disease in the world.

The bench observed that the plea which sought compensation from China to India, for losses incurred due to the pandemic, could not be maintained. The bench said the court has no jurisdiction to summon China and asked the petitioner, "this court is not the government and how can it say what the WHO and China should do?" The petitioner claimed that the WHO had delayed by a month in declaring Covid-19 as a health emergency that threatened the world. The bench reiterated that the petition is not maintainable.

Many reports have emerged stating that China hid crucial information about Covid-19, including the discovery of the initial outbreak and the country's first death for several days. Even, the US has blamed China for the Covid-19 outbreak across the globe.

In June, the apex court had declined to entertain a plea seeking direction to the Centre to move the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and file a USD 600 billion compensation case against China. The plea had alleged COVID-19 pandemic was "deliberately created" by China. Chief Justice S.A. Bobde had dismissed the petition, however granted liberty to the petitioner to make a representation before the Centre.

The plea had claimed there was strong evidence that COVID-19 originated from China's Wuhan Institute of Virology, and also alleged that it had been deliberately created by China as a biological weapon against India.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Tony Curtis, Janet Leigh and Jamie Lee Curtis

For more than 40 years, Jamie Lee Curtis has spent as much time in front of the camera (in films like 1978's Halloween, 1988's A Fish Called Wanda and 2019's Knives Out) as she has with her other passions: writing, activism, producing and directing.

As Curtis tells PEOPLE in this week's issue, she knows how to maximize her impactand how to pivot. Thats my favorite word, she says. And she has, nimbly, from schlocky flicks (Terror Train) to major blockbusters (True Lies) to even yogurt commercialswithout ever losing her humor. Hey, those commercials let me stay home with my kids," she shrugs.

But when she started out in Hollywood, as the child of Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh, Curtis tells PEOPLE she hadnt yet found her voice, which would one day advocate for the Special Olympics, education, AIDS research and children.

For more about Jamie Lee Curtis, pick up this week's issue of PEOPLE

I never thought Id be an actor, she remembers. I thought I was going to be a police officer! I could barely get through high school. I got into the only college where my mother was the most famous graduate [University of the Pacific], and studied criminal justicelike Intro to Corrections 101. Then my freshman year I ran into somebody who suggested that I audition for Nancy Drew. It was a total accident.

RELATED: Why Jamie Lee Curtis Launched a Podcast During the Pandemic

Ron Galella, Ltd./WireImage Jamie Lee Curtis, Christopher Guest, daughter Annie Guest and mother actress Janet Leigh

But at home, she watched her mother, Hitchcock muse Janet Leigh, use her star power to raise money for those less fortunate. My mother was incredibly philanthropic. She [worked with] a group of Hollywood wives who started an organization called SHAREShare Happily and Reap Endlessly. It was a very small group who understood their power. They were married to big starsof course, my mother was a star in her own rightand these women banded together and used their power. Over the years theyve raised more than $50 million to support childrens charities.

Story continues

RELATED VIDEO: Jamie Lee Curtis Slams Fiji Water Girl Photobombing Stunt: They Didnt Ask for My Permission

Jamie Lee Curtis Slams Fiji Water Girl Photobombing Stunt: They Didnt Ask for My Permission

Jamie Lee Curtis is not a fan of promotional stunts.

Curtis says her mothers roll-up-her sleeves attitude had a huge impact on me. Philanthropy helped me find myself. At 30, I started really owning my voice, to try to help in certain areas. I wrote my first book. Then, ten years later, I got sober. [Curtis has been open about her struggle with addiction, which began with prescription painkillers, and her recovery.] And I think the combination of writing 13 childrens books and 21 years of sobriety has given me an absolute sense of my own power. Now I am putting my money, my time, my creativity toward things that matter to me.

What matters the most to Curtis is My Hand in Yours. Ive been closing letters with My hand in yours for years, Curtis says.

In August, she launched the website to benefit Childrens Hospital Los Angeles. Artists and jewelry designers such as Anne Ricketts, Moye Thompson, Simon Pearce and Cathy Waterman create everything from jewelry to journals.

Curtis underwrites all the cost of production and 100 percent of sales benefit children in need of medical care.

My Hand in Yours was created as a way to connect that part of my life to some sort of advocacy," she says. "Because, if ever there was a time certainly in my lifetime where people need comfort and connection, it's now.
Key Temperature Control Unit market players are focusing on expanding their manufacturing facilities to establish their global footprints.

ROCKVILLE, MD / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / The temperature control unit market is slated to grow at a CAGR of over 5% over the projected period, 2020-2030. The market growth will be mainly determined by demand from the food & beverage, pharmaceutical, and plastic industries.

"Despite the COVID-19 impact, the market recovery is anticipated towards the 2020 end. Post pandemic, rapid growth in food & beverage, plastic, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries is poised to generate higher market demand for temperature control units, thus contributing to market growth." says the Fact.MR report.

Temperature Control Unit Market - Key Takeaways

In terms of pump capacity, > 60 GPM will hold maximum sway in the market over the assessment period.

In terms of end-use, the plastic industry will gain traction in the global market, recording a 4% CAGR throughout 2020-2030

Based on the system, the water type category is likely to account for about 88% of the overall value prospects during 2020-2030.

South Asia and East Asia hold over 52% of the overall market share in 2020 and will increase by 2030 end.

Request a report sample to gain comprehensive market insights at

https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=3424

Temperature Control Unit Market - Driving Factors

Precise and consistent requirement of heat transfer from multiple industries to have a controlled output escalates the market demand.

Industries are switching from traditional heating & cooling systems to temperature control units since these units permit precise temperature control.

The market will gain substantial traction in emerging nations due to rapid industrialization and urbanization, which has prompted process manufacturing activities in these nations.

Temperature Control Unit Market - Constraints

Rising worldwide price rivalry and competition in technology challenges the market growth.

A slowdown in the worldwide economy is likely to restrict growth prospects.

Anticipated Market Impact by COVID-19 Outbreak

The COVID-19 outbreak has affected the majority of the sectors. The temperature control unit market has been affected profoundly that is lasting for consecutive three quarters in 2020. However, the resumption of manufacturing activities will ensue growth in market demand. Post COVID-19 crisis, producers will focus on boosting their market presence in emerging nations such as India and China, due to the positive outlook from pharmaceutical, food & beverage, and plastics industries.

Explore the Temperature Control unit market comprising of 142 figures and 82 data tables, along with the table of contents. You can find a detailed market segmentation on https://www.factmr.com/report/3424/temperature-control-unit-market

Competition Landscape

Major companies identified in the temperature control unit market are LP, WIKA Instrument, FRIGEL FIRENZE S.p.A., Toshiba Machine Co., Ltd., EUROCHILLER S.r.l, Carel Industries S.p.A., BOFA International Ltd., HB-Therm GmbH, SINGLE Temperiertechnik GmbH, Mokon Systems, Berg Chilling Systems Inc., Advantage Engineering, Inc., and Temptek, Inc.

More on the Report

The FACT.MR's market research report provides in-depth insights into the Temperature Control Unit market. The market is scrutinized based on pump capacity (< 20 GPM, 21-30 GPM, 31-60 GPM, > 60 GPM), system (water type, oil type), and end-use industry (plastics, food & beverages, pharmaceuticals, printing, chemicals, energy, engineering and mechanical, others), across five major regions (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa (MEA)).

Explore Wide-ranging Coverage of FACT.MR's Industrial Goods Landscape

Chillers Market: Find insights on the Chillers market with analysis of segments, statistics, influencers, market players, and business strategies adopted over a 10-year forecast period.

High Temperature Gaskets Market: FACT.MR's report on the High Temperature Gaskets market offers insights on the market during 2018-2028, including restraints, revenue sources, market leaders, and market strategies.

Thermal Energy Flow Meter Market: Read an analysis of the Thermal Energy Flow Meter market with insights on growth factors, opportunities, restraints, regional market forecast, regulatory policies, and strengths of market leaders.

About Fact.MR

Fact.MR is a leading provider of market intelligence and consulting services, serving clients in over 150 countries. Fact.MR is headquartered in Dublin, and has offices in Dubai. FACT.MR's latest market research reports industry analysis help businesses navigate challenges and take critical decisions with confidence and clarity amidst breakneck competition.

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View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/608697/Temperature-Control-Unit-Market-to-Reach-a-Market-Estimation-of-US-27-Billion-by-2030-end-Reduced-Manufacturing-Activities-During-COVID-19-Impeding-Growth-Notes-FactMR
The crash happened about 7:35 a.m. Wednesday when a box truck headed east on Messner Drive failed to stop at a stop sign at Wolf Road, according to Deputy Chief Joseph Licari of the Wheeling Police Department. It collided with an SUV, and the force of the collision sent both vehicles careening into a fence at the Chicago Executive Airport, 1020 Plant Road, coming to rest on a grassy area at the west end of the airport.
Indonesian trials of a China-backed coronavirus vaccine have produced "no significant side effects" so far, boosting the country's hope of producing 250 million doses next year from as early as January.

Professor Kusnandi Rusmil, chief of the research and clinical trials for Sinovac Biotech in Indonesia, said more than a month after the phase-three trial started, it remained on track and "everything goes well".

A volunteer receives a coronavirus vaccine during a trial at a community health centre in Bandung, West Java, Indonesia. Credit:AP

"As at September 29, 1089 volunteers have received their first shots and 650 volunteers have received their second shots. Our tests will be completed in early January 2021. So at the end of January 2021 we can see the effectiveness, the side effects and the immunity [produced]," he said.

The CoronaVac vaccine is being developed in partnership with Indonesian state-owned pharmaceuticals company PT Bio Farma. It is just one example of China's so-called vaccine diplomacy, which has seen the country offer assistance, loans and free doses of the prospective immunisation to countries in south-east Asia, Europe and Latin America.
Prime Minister Ludovic Orban said he had discussed with the health minister about increasing the treatment capacity of COVID patients in Bucharest by increasing the number of intensive care unit (ICU) places at the "Matei Bals" Institute, by starting the ICU at the Witting Hospital, as well as by transforming, once again, Colentina Hospital into COVID Hospital.

He said that in order to cover the ICU with medical staff, secondments could be made, after he was told that there were not enough staff at the Witting Hospital for the ICU.

He specified that the number of places at ICU is "almost double" compared to the number of people who are hospitalized in the intensive care units.

"Of course, the number of cases does not take into account the geographical distribution of the number of places at ICU, for this reason CNCI is prepared at any time when a hospital needs treatment in the intensive care unit and there is no space in the locality or in that county to transport the patient to an intensive care unit in another county, which has happened," Orban said.
BEIJING, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Protection of women's rights and interests must become the commitment at the national level, Chinese President Xi Jinping said at a high-level meeting on the 25th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women on Thursday.

"As we pursue post-COVID recovery, we may create new opportunities for women to participate in decision-making and be more involved in national, economic, cultural and social governance," Xi said.
MINNEAPOLIS, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Aleran Software , the all-in-one sales order management platform, announced today the launch of its new B2B eCommerce solution, OneMart.

"We built OneMart with the manufacturer/vendor and sales agency in mind," said Alex Sayyah, CEO of Aleran Software. "Our customers asked for a simple, scalable and cost-effective website builder that's actually designed for B2B eCommerce -- and that's exactly what we gave them."

B2B eCommerce Store Builder

OneMart's drag and drop builder allows users to easily create secure, branded shopping experiences in minutes and with no technical expertise required. Users can simply choose from a range of expertly designed templates and then customize according to brand or business. Users may also tailor shop experiences according to their individual clients, with personalized customer logins, pricing, shipping rates and more.

Thanks to a new partnership with Payroc , a global payment processing organization, OneMart users will also be getting integrated payment processing as part of the platform.

In addition, OneMart works seamlessly with Aleran's cloud-based RepDesk platform so users can get real-time updates on products and pricing and manage their sales back office in a single view.

"Whether our customers are using OneMart to create an online store or instantly turn a PDF into a shoppable catalog, we wanted to give them a scalable, secure, end-to-end solution that doesn't come with the hefty price tag or complicated installations you get with other products," Sayyah explained.

For more information, please visit aleran.com .

About Aleran

Aleran's all-in-one sales order management platform gives businesses exactly the tools they need to succeed and lead in today's ever-evolving B2B sales landscape. Founded in Minneapolis, MN by pioneering technologists in eCommerce, CRM and digital innovation, Aleran's goal has always centered on making complex and expensive technologies simple and affordable for the small to midsize business or manufacturer. Today, Aleran's software-as-a-service platform does just that, offering an easy to use, cloud-based system for managing sales orders, gathering real-time business insights, reconciling commissions and creating shoppable online stores and PDF catalogs.

Media Contact:

Alex Sayyah

Phone: 952-405-7310

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Aleran Software

Related Links

http://aleran.com


From the mid-2000s onwards, the digital revolution raised hopes of democratic transformation and strengthening in Africa. But it hasn't quite turned out like that. Now, almost a decade after the Arab Spring , techno-optimism has given way to techno-pessimism .

African leaders have proved able to blunt the transformative potential of smart phones through censorship and internet shutdowns. When the internet is on, social media attracts more attention for spreading fake news than preventing election rigging.

What was once thought of as liberation technology has turned out to be remarkably compatible with the maintenance of the status quo. Or has it? Does this more pessimistic reading overlook genuine progress?

A new publication I co-edited with Lisa Garbe  Decoding #DigitalDemocracy in Africa  draws together the latest research on the extent to which digital technology has changed Africa  and the ways in which Africa is changing digital technology.

The articles show that we should not miss the wood for the trees: despite disappointment, digital technology has had profound impacts on African politics and society. But, they also highlight how much more needs to be known about digital technology on the continent.

Digital access and inclusion

A lot of recent analysis has focused on the digital divide in Africa , and the many people excluded from online access by poverty and lack of coverage.

Yet researchers have also found that closing this divide cannot be achieved by cheaper technology alone . Using digital technology to access information and resources is only possible when a set of political, legal, and economic conditions are in place. Facebook and other tech giants are more concerned with growing user numbers than addressing social ills caused by their technology. EFE-EPA/Ali Haider

For example, the content that citizens can access increasingly depends on giant tech companies, especially for poorer citizens. In his contribution on Facebook's Free Basics - a service that provides basic online services without data charges - Toussaint Nothias explains that tech corporations' dominant position enables them to shape how individuals use the internet under the pretence of making it more affordable.

This raises tough questions about whether multinational companies engage ethically in Africa. As Julie Owono's contribution points out, Facebook has been accused of dumping products such as Free Basics, stymieing the production of local alternatives. This has raised concerns of a fresh scramble for Africa, with multinational companies expending more energy and resources in securing new users than tackling hate speech and misinformation.

Social media, democracy and accountability

From the recent virtual protest in Zambia to #ZimbabweanLivesMatter , the potential of social media to empower dissenting voices is clear.

Idayat Hassan and Jamie Hitchen's analysis of WhatsApp and Facebook use ahead of elections in The Gambia shows that even in rural areas with limited connectivity, social media content contributes to offline political mobilisation.

It is important not to lose sight of this more positive impact amid the growing focus on fake news and hate speech.

Sadly, though, further problems are on the horizon. Azeb Madebo reveals how the Ethiopian diaspora has fuelled the polarisation between the Oromo community on the one hand, and the Ethiopian government and Ethiopian nationalists on the other.

Not all fake news is believed of course, but when stories play into widely held fears, prejudices and assumptions , they can exacerbate distrust and encourage a cycle of violence.

It is, therefore, significant that there is relatively little regulation of content moderation. Julie Owono shows that in part this can be attributed to the limited local capacity of content providers such as Facebook or Twitter. Neither has invested heavily in African experts capable of identifying fake news and hate speech circulated on their platforms.

In part, it is also rooted in the limited funding available for civil society groups, considerable linguistic diversity, and the volume of information being shared. As a result, organisations such as Africa Check highlight instances of fake news but cannot hope to cover all harmful content.

There are no easy answers to these problems though, because when governments do try and combat free speech, Ashwanee Budoo finds that misinformation is often abused as an excuse to clamp down on freedom of expression .

Free speech, censorship and Internet shutdowns

While growing internet coverage has enabled citizens to challenge authoritarian rule , non-democratic leaders have also manipulated or disrupted online access. According to Lisa Garbe, internet shutdowns have become the new normal in some authoritarian states. This is especially so during politically contested periods such as elections or major protests .

Moreover, while internet shutdowns are important, they are the thin end of the wedge. A number of steps have been taken to prevent citizens from being able to express themselves online. There is a growing use of spyware across the continent to snoop on government critics. High data costs fuel digital exclusion in Africa. EFE-EPA/Nic Bothma

In Tanzania, restrictive laws about what can be said online go hand in hand with government pressure. A prominent lawyer was recently fired because of her activism.

Uganda , Benin and several other states have imposed a social media tax that has excluded many users.

Meanwhile, those who can afford internet access still face restrictions on governments information. Thus, Lisa-Marie Selvik argues that digital technology has done little to give many African citizens the right to basic government information .

What we know and what we don't know

Some sixteen years on since the creation of Twitter, it is becoming clear what we do and don't know about digital democracy in Africa. We know that digital technology is acting as a disruptive force that simultaneously has liberating and destructive potential.

The continent has yet to develop an effective way to stop the flow of fake news. And the full benefits of digital democracy are being thwarted by digital exclusion that is driven by the high cost of data , the strategies of authoritarian governments, and in some cases the approach of major tech companies themselves.

But, what we don't know is just as important. We urgently need more research in a number of areas.

To what extent has social media exacerbated ethno-regional tensions? How much online content is actually produced by governments and the trolls that work for them? Who should be responsible for content moderation and how can ethno-linguistic diversity be accounted for? What are the political and socio-economy consequences of restricting internet access, and how can this be resisted? Does the finding that how an individual behaves online does not dramatically change their offline political activity in Uganda hold more broadly? And is social media reinforcing existing gender norms rather than challenging them?

These questions should inspire the research agendas of the future.

Idayat Hassan, Director of CDD-West Africa, contributed to the publication and is a co-author of this article.

The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

By Nic Cheeseman, Professor of Democracy, University of Birmingham And

Lisa Garbe, Doctoral Researcher, University of St.Gallen
Findings Uncover More than 1 in 3 Americans Don't Trust How Quickly COVID-19 Vaccine Clinical Trials Are Moving

LONDON, Oct. 01, 2020, the global business intelligence provider for the biopharma industry, today released its "Pulse Report: Clinical Trials & the COVID-19 Vaccine" study which uncovered American sentiment and confidence around COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials. According to the data, more than 1 in 3 (35%) Americans don't trust how quickly the COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials are moving, and more than 1 in 5 (23%) don't think pharmaceutical companies have consumers' best interests at mind during COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials.



The study conducted with third-party research firm YouGov,found that while Americans are wary of the current vaccine development process, they are paying attention to it with 22% saying they regularly look for updates on COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials. As such, developers must prioritize further education and transparency around the process. Right now, 1 in 5 Americans agree that both pharmaceutical companies and the government are NOT communicating enough about COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials (20% and 21% respectively).

To quell these growing concerns and get Americans on board with a vaccine, data highlighted that developers should look to fill information gaps. Many Americans say they're more likely to take the COVID-19 vaccine if they:

Had more information on clinical trials: more than 1 in 4 (28%)

more than 1 in 4 (28%) Knew the demographic breakdowns of clinical trials were diverse: almost 1 in 6 (15%)

almost 1 in 6 (15%) Could directly ask questions about clinical trials to vaccine developers: more than 1 in 10 (12%)

more than 1 in 10 (12%) Knew someone who had participated in a clinical trial: more than 1 in 10 (11%)

"There's a clear demand for unbiased information from the American public when it comes to COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials," said Duncan Emerton, PhD, Director, Custom Intelligence & Analytics, Pharma Intelligence. "As we try to make it through this global pandemic together, there is a critical need for transparency from those racing to develop a COVID-19 vaccine. With a large portion of Americans already voicing their apprehension around taking a vaccine upon approval, education will be a key component in changing their attitude. A vaccine can only work if people are willing to be vaccinated. If the public doesn't trust it, all of the industry's efforts will have been for nothing."

As the vaccine approval race heats up, developers leading the pack should be at the forefront of this knowledge sharing push. Data found that 57% of Americans have heard of at least one COVID-19 vaccine developer within Phase 3 clinical trials but some are more recognized than others. Among those with a COVID-19 vaccine in Phase 3 clinical trials:

38% of Americans have heard of AstraZeneca & University of Oxford

25% of Americans have heard of Moderna & National Institute of Health

20% of Americans have heard of BioNTech & Pfizer & Fosun Pharma

18% of Americans have heard of Wuhan Institute of Biological Products

The full report will be available at www.pharmaintelligence.informa.com.

Research Methodology

Informa Pharma Intelligence commissioned YouGov PLC - a third party, professional research and consulting organization - to poll the views of 1,346 adults who agreed to take part. Fieldwork was undertaken between 3rd - 4th September 2020. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all US adults (aged 18+).

About Informa Pharma Intelligence

Informa Pharma Intelligence powers a full suite of analysis products-Datamonitor Healthcare, Sitetrove, Trialtrove, Pharmaprojects, Medtrack, Biomedtracker, Scrip, Pink Sheet and In Vivo - to deliver the data needed by the pharmaceutical and biomedical industry to make decisions and create real-world opportunities for growth.

With more than 500 analysts keeping their fingers on the pulse of the industry, no key disease, clinical trial, drug approval or R&D project isn't covered through the breadth and depth of data available to customers. For more information visit pharmaintelligence.informa.com.

Media Contacts:

Diffusion PR for Informa Pharma Intelligence

informapharma@diffusionpr.com

646.571.0120
With over half of the adults in the United States regularly drinking coffee, a healthier option is necessary.

Dennis Quaid, formerly known as the dad in The Parent Trap (1998), is now also hosting the educational television show Viewpoint with Dennis Quaid. The program interviews industry professionals about a myriad of topics to bring attention to events and issues that are impacting individuals around the world. Coming to the show is a new episode featuring coffee experts disclosing the steps behind making organic coffee.

Organic food and beverage alternatives are trending as a result of customers paying closer attention to the foods they consume daily. Coffee continues to be one of the worlds most popular beverages, and the preference for an organic option is growing amongst coffee drinkers.

From start to finish, organic coffee making uses no chemicals or artificial substances in the process of growing, harvesting, drying, and roasting the beans. The sun does the work during the drying step, drying out the beans naturally after harvesting. The roasting process is a little more complicated and varies depending on the coffee type, but is not too far different from the other steps in organic coffee farming in that no toxic substances are in this final step.

Numerous studies show how chemicals added to foods are harmful to both humans and the environment. With over half of the adults in the United States regularly drinking coffee, a healthier option is necessary. Further details about the processes utilized in making organic coffee will be available in the new episode.

Viewpoint with Dennis Quaid is carefully reviewed before broadcast. The informational TV segment has received multiple awards.


CLEVELAND, Ohio - Eleven Ohio counties are now under red alert in the states coronavirus advisory system, with Cuyahoga County remaining one step below at orange for the seventh straight week, Gov. Mike DeWine announced Thursday.

Were seeing more red counties this week. Thats not good, DeWine said.

There were nine red counties last week and five two weeks ago, the lowest number since the states COVID-19 alert system began in early July.

Clermont, Hamilton, Muskingum and Richland were moved to red this week, while Delaware and Stark counties were moved from red to orange. Continuing red were Ashland, Butler, Mercer, Montgomery, Pike, Putnam and Scioto counties.

The reasons vary for the increased concerns in some parts of the state, DeWine said.

For example, in Muskingum County, officials reported 42 cases linked to an outbreak that spanned the Eagles and Moose lodges, the VFW and the American Legion," DeWine said. In Butler County, DeWine said, "Residents continue to have large gatherings, which is causing a lot of this problem. No mask wearing, no social distancing is what our local officials tell us in Butler County. And in Richland County, large family events have become a concern, DeWine said.

Red is considered a Level 3 public emergency because of very high exposure and spread. Purple is the highest level, a step above red. No county yet has been placed on Level 4 purple alert, though DeWine said Richland County is on the watch list" for potentially moving that way.

In the Greater Cleveland area, Cuyahoga is joined in orange by Lake, Lorain, Portage and Summit counties. Geauga and Medina counties are at the lowest alert level of yellow.

Cuyahoga Countys report card

Cuyahoga County on July 2 started out on red and stayed there until dropping to Level 2 orange on Aug. 20.

Case numbers have improved dramatically for Cuyahoga County, but not enough to drop to Level 1 yellow in combination with other factors.

Cuyahoga County's coronavirus report card from the state on Thursday, Oct. 1.Ohio Department of Health

This week, Cuyahoga County was flagged for three areas of concern - the number of new cases over the last two weeks, the share of cases outside of congregate living facilities such as nursing homes, and for an increase in outpatient visits to doctors and health facilities.

Cuyahogas 50.28 cases per 100,000 people over the last two weeks is just above the threshold of alert of 50 cases per 100,000. Cuyahoga has dropped from 139.4 cases per 100,000 in the July 30. Fifty-six of Ohios 88 counties this week are above the threshold of 50.

Cuyahoga is one of 83 counties out of 88 flagged for the share of cases being what the state considers to be high outside of congregate living facilities.

For new outpatient visits, there was an increase in Cuyahoga County late last week, before leveling off, the state reported.

Statewide, in addition to the 11 red counties, 51 are orange and 26 yellow. A week ago, there were nine red, 47 orange and 32 yellow.

How the alert system works

Each county is graded on seven criteria. Meeting none or one of the criteria places a county on Level 1 yellow; two or three on Level 2 orange; four or five on Level 3 red; and six or seven on Level 4 purple.

* 1. New cases - Alert triggered when there are 50 new cases per cases 100,000 residents over the last two weeks.

* 2. Increase in new cases - Alert triggered by an increase in cases for five straight days at any point over the last three weeks. This is based on the date of onset of symptoms, not when the cases are reported.

* 3. Non-congregate living cases - Alert triggered when at least 50% of the new cases in one of the last three weeks have occurred in outside congregate living spaces such as nursing homes and prisons.

* 4. Emergency rooms - Alert triggered when there is an increase in visits for COVID-like symptoms or a diagnosis for five straight days at any point in the last three weeks.

* 5. Doctor visits - Alert triggered when there is an increase in out-patient visits resulting in confirmed cases or suspected diagnosis for COVID-19 for five straight days at any point in the last three weeks.

* 6. Hospitalizations - Alert triggered when there is an increase in new COVID-19 patients for five straight days at any point over the last three weeks. This is based on the county or residence, not the location of the hospital.

* 7. Intensive Care Unit occupancy - Alert triggered when ICU occupancy in a region exceeds 80% of total ICU beds and at least 20% of the beds are being used for coronavirus patients for at least three days in the last week.

This shows the areas of coronavirus concern for which each of Ohio's 88 counties have been flagged.Ohio Department of Health

Rich Exner, data analysis editor for cleveland.com, writes about numbers on a variety of topics. Follow on Twitter @RichExner. See other data-related stories at cleveland.com/datacentral.

Read related coverage

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See coronavirus cases by day for each Ohio county, including per capita and cases in last seven days
At least 14 are in prison, another 30 are wanted by the police. The young people are part of the All Burma Federation of Student Unions (Abfsu) and were demonstrating for a conflict that has claimed hundreds of victims, including children. University in Meiktila: government and army "do not want peace".

Yangon (AsiaNews / Agencies) - The Myanmar police have arrested 14 university students for holding protests and demonstrations against the conflict in the western state of Rakhine between the Burmese government army and soldiers of the Arakan Army (Aa) Buddhist rebel group. According to a leader of the student movement, another 30 have escaped arrest and are currently being sought by the police.

The students, most of whom are members of the All Burma Federation of Student Unions (Abfsu), have repeatedly organized demonstrations and awareness-raising activities on the war in the Western state, which has also claimed victims among children. Recently, young people have posted signs and papers on the bulletin boards of universities in various cities, including Mandalay (the second most important in the country), Pakokku and Monywa.

The Abfsu is an umbrella organization that brings together different student movements and groups and which fights for academic freedom, student rights and freedoms throughout Southeast Asia, not just Myanmar. They are calling for an end to the conflict between the Burmese army and Arakan Army, which broke out at the end of 2018 and which caused the death of over 300 civilians, the wounding of almost 700 and the flight from their homes of 220,000 people.

The students are also demanding an end to censorship and internet blocking in the areas affected by the war.

Among those arrested are three young people from Yadanabon University, three others from Meiktila University and Monywa University, one from Pakokku University and two from Pyi University. The universities are located in the regions of Mandalay, Sagaing, Bago and Magway. Some of them were stopped outside the buildings or while they were campaigning actively against the war.

They are charged under Section 19 of the Peaceful Assemblies and Demonstrations Act, Law 505 (a and b) of the Criminal Code and Section 25 of the Natural Disaster Management Act. If convicted, they risk up to two years in prison and a fine.

Speaking to Radio Free Asia (RFA) from a secret location to avoid arrest, Swam Pyae Tun of Meiktila University points out that the police arrested the students but not the supporters of political parties who demonstrated violating the restrictions in place on Covid-19. We were asking for an end to the civil war - he adds - because we only want peace. The police did not arrest the thousands of people who took part in the electoral campaign, they only arrested us on the basis of spurious rules. Government and military do not want peace.
A former prison inmate has shared the horrific story of when he was allegedly groomed and raped by a guard at just 16 years old.

Jamie, now 42, was placed in a New South Wales youth detention centre almost 30 years ago and said he was 'bullied' for his disability and unusual hair colour.

The 42-year-old, who changed his name to avoid being identified, claimed one of the guards gave him extra cigarettes before repeatedly raping him for six months.

Jamie has now filed a statement of claim with the NSW Supreme Court and shared gruesome details of the allegations for the first time, news.com.au reported.

Jamie, 42, has filed a claim to the NSW Supreme Court (pictured) after he was allegedly groomed and raped by a NSW prison guard at 16-years-old in juvenile detention

He claimed the guard 'took a liking' to him after he was 'bullied' (file image pictured). He claimed the guard gave him extra cigarettes before raping him over a six-month period

The 42-year-old said he was 'in juvie for mucking up' and quickly became an 'outcast' and a 'loner'.

Jamie claimed one of the prison guards 'took a liking' to him and began giving him more than the permitted six cigarettes per day.

'We'd get locked down at night and he'd come sit down and talk with me. That's when the abuse started.

'I kept it myself. Way back then, gay people used to get bashed. I was scared if I said anything it would end up bad for me,' Jamie explained.

The 42-year-old said he didn't speak up about the repeated abuse because the man who allegedly raped him told him not to.

'He just said, "imagine if anybody found out" and "I wouldn't be here to protect you",' Jamie explained.

Jamie also claimed the prison manager knew about the abuse and would taunt the then-16-year-old with questions and sly comments.

The 42-year-old said the experience had left him struggling to hold down a job, with bad nightmares and a drug addiction.

Jamie is suing for damages, interest and the costs associated with his life and after prison. His lawyers will meet with lawyers for the state of NSW on Thursday.

Jamie is suing for damages, interest and the costs associated with his life after prison. His lawyers will meet with lawyers for NSW on Thursday (NSW Supreme Court pictured)

But his lawyer Sheree Buchanan, an abuse law specialist at Shine Lawyers, said a particular piece of legislation in NSW places victims at a disadvantage.

The Civil Liability Act was amended in 2004 so people injured in custody must prove a 'permanent impairment' that is above a 15 per cent threshold to be compensated.

Ms Buchanan said it was made to 'prevent fanciful claims' but it was 'offensive' to survivors of sexual abuse.

Shine Lawyers wrote a letter to the NSW Attorney-General Mark Speakman and asked for the legislation be amended in May.

Mr Speakman told Daily Mail Australia the NSW Government 'acted swiftly to implement all of the civil justice recommendations of the Child Abuse Royal Commission'.

When contacted by Shine Lawyers he 'sought urgent advice from the Department of Communities and Justice' and 'the Department is currently considering options for potential reform'.

Lawyers for the State of NSW have filed documents to the Supreme Court that do not admit to Jamie's claims that he was abused in custody.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Shine Lawyers for comment.

National sexual assault support 1800 737 732

NSW Rape Crisis Counselling Service 1800 424 017
Attorneys for the cops suspended over the death of Daniel Prude say the officers acted 'flawlessly' during their arrest of the unarmed black man.

Prude suffocated after he was arrested by cops during a psychotic episode in Rochester, New York on March 23.

Bodycam video - which showed a naked Prude being put into a spit hood and pinned to the ground - sparked outrage when it was released to the public last month and resulted in the suspension of seven officers who were at the scene.

But on Thursday, during a press conference held at the Rochester Police Union, lawyers said the officers were simply following protocol.

'There's no question it's a tragic situation for Mr. Prude's family, and there may need to be conversations about training and mental health intervention, but these officers did exactly what they were trained to do and they did it flawlessly,' a lawyer for officer Mark Vaughn stated.

Vaughn has been suspended with pay alongside six other policemen - Troy Taladay, Paul Ricotta, Francisco Santiago, Andrew Specksgoor, Josiah Harris, and Sergeant Michael Magri.

Attorneys for the cops suspended over the death of Daniel Prude say the officers acted 'flawlessly' during their arrest of the unarmed black man

'These officers are being mistreated unfairly. Their lives have been threatened, there are bounties placed on their heads,' a lawyer representing Santiago stated.

Daniel Prude, 41, stopped breathing as Rochester police were restraining him in March

According to Rochester First, the attorneys also presented a spit hood - similar to the one that was placed over Prude's head.

The restraint is usually placed over a person's head in order to stop them spitting and biting.

The lawyers argued that a spit hood is easier to breathe in than an N-95F mask, and that they needed to pin Prude down in order to protect themselves.

'They have to protect themselves and protect him, by circling and not letting him move,' Santiago's lawyer stated.

'At that point it was part of their training.'

Prude passed out during his arrest and died a week later on March 30, when he was taken off life support.

An autopsy from the Monroe County Medical Examiner's Office ruled his death a homicide caused in part by 'complications of asphyxia in the setting of physical restraint'.

However no charges were brought against the officers and the video and incident was kept under wraps until Prude's family released it last month and accused police of a cover-up.

Bodycam video showing a naked Prude being put into a spit hood and pinned to the ground sparked outrage when it was released to the public last month

A Rochester police officer holds Daniel Prude's head down during the deadly encounter

Emails, police reports and other documents were then released by the city revealing Rochester police commanders had urged city officials to hold off on publicly releasing the footage.

Deputy Chief Mark Simmons cited the 'current climate' in the city and the nation in a June 4 email advising Singletary to press the city's lawyers to deny a Prude family lawyer's public records request for the footage.

An investigation has now been launched by the New York State Attorney General's Office into Prude's death.

Prude is one in a line of black men and women killed by cops in America in recent months, as protests demanding an end to police brutality and racism build nationwide.

Demonstrations erupted in May following the 'murder' of George Floyd by a Minneapolis cop who knelt on his neck for almost nine minutes until he passed out and died.

A makeshift memorial is seen, Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2020, in Rochester, New York

Protesters on September 6 in Rochester following the public release of footage of Prude's killing

Prude's family held a vigil in his honor on September 10 in Rochester (pictured)

Floyd's death reignited outrage over the death of Breonna Taylor, 26, who was shot six times when three plain clothes officers burst into her Louisville apartment on March 13 during a botched raid.

A grand jury this week returned a decision on possible charges against the three cops, choosing to indict just one of the officers - Brett Hankison - on the lesser charges of wanton endangerment.

The charges relate to him firing into a neighbor's apartment and no charges were brought in relation to Taylor's death.

In June, unarmed father Rayshard Brooks was shot dead while he ran away from cops in the drive-thru of a Wendy's restaurant in Atlanta.

Jacob Blake was shot seven times in the back by a white cop in front of his three young children on August 23, leaving the father-of-six paralyzed from the waist down.

One week later, 29-year-old Dijon Kizzee was shot and killed by two cops while he was out riding his bike in South Los Angeles.

Cops say Kizzee had dropped a pistol, bent down and picked it up when the officers shot him dead, while the attorney for his devastated family said cops shot him multiple times before leaving his dead handcuffed body in the street for hours.
Hamiltons punk birdman of the east end is a rarity, but also pretty easy to find.

There was Paul Riss recently at Van Wagners Beach, having swooped into action when his phone app alerted him that a brown booby was in the area, just the second time the seabird has ever been spotted in Ontario.

The first time was in Fort Erie about 10 years ago. Riss saw that one, too.

But if you really want to discover Riss, or rather understand his evolution  and why he has scientific bird names tattooed all over his body  you need to go back to the day when the winged wonders changed his life.

First the news: Riss stars in a film premiering Oct. 3 called Rare Bird Alert. The CBC documentary features punk rock birder Paul Riss as he embarks on a one-man odyssey to meet other enthusiasts and take the pulse of birdwatching in North America, reads the promotional material.

Enthusiasts? Riss has 234 bird names inked on his hide.

Close-up of the some of the scientific names of 234 birds tattooed all over his body. John Rennison/The Hamilton Spectator

The story behind the tattoos is 2011. That was when Riss decided to attempt a big year in birding parlance, meaning he set out to find as many species as possible in 12 months.

On one excursion he drove seven hours to Manitoulin Island, in the farthest reaches of Lake Huron, and tromped through snow and ice to spot the sharp-tailed grouse  or Tympanuchus phasianellus if you were reading it on his back  perhaps best known for the dance it performs to attract a mate.

I didnt have waterproof boots, but I just remember it was a memorable time and I fell in love with the place, says Riss.

Less memorably, Riss rose at dawn one morning that year to drive to Ottawa to see a bird, only to strike out when he arrived and return home in darkness feeling deflated.

Bird watcher Paul Riss, and his eagle eye. John Rennison/The Hamilton Spectator

The idea to record his findings that year on his skin was inspired by a book called Kingbird Highway by Kenn Kaufman  a birdwatching god, Riss says  about the authors days in the 1970s as a hippie hitchhiker birder.

Riss loved how Kaufman belied the stereotype of staid Tilley hat-wearing birdwatching folk.

In 2011 people were still saying that to me: You dont look like a birder. I thought maybe I needed to change perceptions and have the name of every bird I saw that year tattooed on me.

Back then, Riss was living in Toronto, where he grew up. Five years ago he moved to Hamilton and fell in love with the city, choosing a neighbourhood in the east end, to his ear gloriously in earshot of the Ticats roar from the stadium.

Riss owns an advertising company he has always run from home, which gives him flexibility to chase birds. Locally hes impressed with places like the Dundas Valley and Hamilton Cemetery for birdwatching.

His wife, Rachel Riordan, is an illustrator and painter, and they have twins, Georgia and Shepherd. The kids middle names? Wren and Thrasher.

The "Punk Rock Big Year" tattoo on his chest is for the year bird watcher Paul Riss tried to find as many species as possible in 12 months. John Rennison/The Hamilton Spectator

Riss says birding has long served as an outlet for directing his creative energies and relieving stress and anxiety. He sketches birds in the field, and paints them, and has designed T-shirts for birders.

The allure of birds for him includes the numbers  more than 10,000 species in the world, he says  and their myriad habits and features.

They are all beautiful, even the ugliest ones, even the vultures. Theres no limit to what you can learn about them. And they can fly. Which is the coolest thing. The blackpoll warbler travels 6,000 miles a year. And weighs just ounces. Its remarkable, their feats of strength and determination. You have to respect a creature like that.

Riss made enough of a name in birdwatching over the years that producers had approached him several times about doing a documentary. But it often felt like they wanted to get him on camera in order to poke fun at birders.

The first tattoos, the name of a rock pigeon and mourning dove, were the tests of the font bird watcher Paul Riss decided to use for the rest of his bird name tattoos. John Rennison/The Hamilton Spectator

But he says Rare Bird Alert, that will appear on CBC Docs, explores how popular the pastime has become, touches on issues that matter to him and many birders, such as climate change, and captures the spiritually nurturing power of birdwatching.

Riss knows it well, that power.

When he was a kid in the 1980s, he felt like an outcast who never fit in. These were days long before the notion of the hipster became cool.

It wasnt good to be a nerd back then.

He found refuge in his drawing, and also in punk rock and heavy metal that perhaps allowed him to drown out his anxieties, pounding music like the Sex Pistols, Black Flag, and Slayer.

Not everyone approved: he was sent home from elementary school for wearing an Iron Maiden Killers album art T-shirt. (He still listens to the strains of head banging rebellion every day.)

But the genesis of a new, all-consuming passion happened when he was 11.

Thats when his dad took him to see some birds.

Paul Riss owns an advertising company he has always run from home, which gives him flexibility to chase birds. John Rennison/The Hamilton Spectator

He was a typical 1970s dad, looking to connect with his son who only seemed to like art and horror movies but not sports, says Riss. A buddy of his said, take him to Cranberry Marsh, in Whitby.

It was there, in one moment, that he says it flourished in his brain.

Young Paul Riss held seeds in his outstretched hand. A black-capped chickadee floated into his palm.

The strength in the tiny claws felt magical, and it was as though the gentle yet powerful creature lifted him up that day, offering a view from which the birdman has never descended.
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"First and foremost, I would like to extend an apology on behalf of the District and the Board of School Directors to the student who was involved and to his family. They did not ask for this incident to occur, nor do they deserve the negative attention that it has brought." - school board President Tina Stoll
President Muhammadu Buhari has identified the successful implementation of the Universal Basic Education Programme, Girl Education Project and Safe School Initiatives, as factors responsible for the increase in girls enrolment and retention in schools.

Femi Adesina, the presidents spokesman, in a statement in Abuja on Thursday, said Mr Buhari stated this at a UN high-level meeting commemorating the 25th Anniversary of the 4th World Conference on Women.

In a video message to the virtual meeting, convened by President of the UN General Assembly 75th session, Volkan Bozkir, in New York, the president said: Our Government is vigorously implementing the Universal Basic Education Programme, which enhances girl-child education at the grassroots.

Furthermore, the Girl Education Project has contributed to the marked increase in girls enrolment and retention in schools as well as guaranteed full productive capacity for future generations of women.

To ensure the security of school children, especially girls in the North-East of Nigeria, we have ratified the Safe School Declaration and begin the implementation of our Safe School Initiatives across the country.

The president noted with satisfaction that through the Safe School programmes, his administration had ensured improved security through the provision of necessary learning materials for educational institutions.

Gender-based violence

On combating gender-based violence, the Nigerian leader said that awareness of a Sex Offenders Register was on-going to discourage and better manage cases of violence against women.

We are also expanding existing temporary shelters and building new ones in locations where they do not exist, to cater for victims of abuse and provide them with needed rehabilitation.

In our quest to address the menace of trafficking of our women and girls, Nigeria is working in close collaboration with relevant partners, to rescue, rehabilitate and re-settle rescued victims of trafficking, he said.

Mr Buhari disclosed that Nigeria prioritised vulnerable groups, including women, in the provision of medical and social assistance to mitigate the socio-economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic.

In the last year, over one million Nigerians have been enrolled into National Social Register of poor and vulnerable households to enable them to access needed social assistance.

Under the National Social Investment Programme, we have commenced cash transfers and distribution of food items to individuals and families across all States in Nigeria as palliatives to cushion the effect of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Our administration believes that the promotion and protection of fundamental human rights and freedoms are critical to the attainment of the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development.

It is for this reason that I urge the international community to support the mandate and operations of the Human Rights Council in its quest to strengthen institutions in relation to gender equality and empowerment, as well as elimination of all forms of discrimination and violence against women and girls, he said.

He urged Member States to develop additional strategies to improve the quality of life for women and girls.

Our administration is mindful of the necessity to empower women and girls for the realisation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development; the African Union Agenda 2063; as well as the Beijing Declaration and Platform of Action, he said.

The president also used the occasion to congratulate Member States on the giant strides achieved in the implementation of the outcomes of the 4th World Conference on Women over the last two decades.
It was National Sons Day this week and media personality, Toolz used the opportunity to celebrate her sons.

Sharing the above photo, the mom of two wrote;

Apparently yesterday was National Sons day, and even though they gave me a bit more belly, thinner edges and bigger feet, I really couldnt imagine life without my sons  #HappyNationalSonsDay to my babies Which pregnancy side-effects did you or are you still battling? #MamaOfKings #LittleHumansBants

Follow Us on Facebook  @LadunLiadi; Instagram  @LadunLiadi; Twitter  @LadunLiadi; Youtube  @LadunLiadiTV for updates
Bangladesh officials on Wednesday accused a Myanmar government minister of conducting a disinformation campaign to hamper Rohingya repatriation when he told the United Nations that militant groups including ARSA and the Arakan Army had found sanctuary in neighboring Bangladesh.

Speaking to the U.N. General Assembly on Tuesday, Myanmar Minister of the State Counselors Office Kyaw Tint Swe also said that Bangladesh should do more to stop the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) from interfering with the bilateral repatriation process.

Both the terrorist group ARSA and the terrorist insurgent group AA have used Bangladeshi territory as a sanctuary, Kyaw Tint Swe said, according to the speech text. Efforts to prevent ARSA and its supporters in the camps of Coxs Bazar from hampering the bilateral repatriation process, through threats, violence or other illegal conduct, also need to be strengthened as such activities pose a risk to both Bangladesh and Myanmar.

A day later, Bangladesh Foreign Minister A.K. Abdul Momen and Faruk Khan, chairman of the parliamentary standing committee on foreign affairs, rebuked Kyaw Tint Swes statement.

The Myanmar allegation that ARSA and Arakan Army have used Bangladesh territory as a sanctuary is a disinformation campaign to hamper the process of repatriation of the Rohingya living in Bangladesh. We vehemently reject this allegation, Momen told BenarNews, , an RFA-affiliated online news service.

He went on to say that Myanmar officials have balked at efforts to repatriate the Rohingya from camps in and around Coxs Bazar back to Myanmars Rakhine state.

About 740,000 of the minority Muslims fled to Bangladesh during a brutal military crackdown launched in August 2017 in response to ARSA attacks on Myanmar police and army posts that killed nine.

We are ready to send the Rohingya back to their place of origin, Rakhine state, but Myanmar is not taking them back. Myanmar must improve the conditions in Rakhine so that the Rohingya feel secure to return to their homeland, Momen said.

Khan echoed Momens statement that Myanmar is trying to stall the repatriation efforts. While Bangladesh and Myanmar officials signed an agreement in November 2017 to begin the process of returning the Rohingya in early 2018, there had been no movement since.

From the very beginning, Myanmar has been trying to portray the whole Rohingya community as terrorists. They have been continuing such campaigns at the bilateral level and multilateral forums, Khan told BenarNews.

We strongly condemn such an unfounded negative campaign.

Kyaw Tint Swe said Myanmar remained committed to having the Rohingya return.

Bilateral cooperation is the only way that can effectively resolve the repatriation issue between Myanmar and Bangladesh. May I say this  should Bangladesh commit itself to the bilateral process it will find Myanmar a willing partner, he said in his U.N. speech.

Ragtag

Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal praised his countrys border guard force for maintaining security, and said the country had a zero tolerance policy for all forms of terrorism.

We categorically assert that the terrorist groups such as ARSA and Arakan Army do not get any indulgence from Bangladesh. There is no presence of ARSA and Arakan Army in Bangladesh, he told BenarNews.

Despite the home ministers statement, government and police sources in February privately acknowledged that they had arrested several of the insurgents in the previous months.

BenarNews interviewed a self-proclaimed ARSA member in Kutupalong refugee camp in November 2017, who said that at least 150 insurgents were living in the camps at the time.

Southeast Asia security analyst Zachary Abuza, meanwhile, called the Myanmar allegations preposterously overblown. Abuza, a professor at National War College in Washington, is also a columnist for BenarNews.

ARSA was never much beyond a small, ragtag, poorly armed militant group with a twitter account. There is no evidence that Bangladeshi forces or nationals are actively arming or training them, he told BenarNews.

He drew a contrast between ARSA and the Arakan Army.

The Arakanese are recognized citizens, in the ways that the Rohingya are not, he said. That will always open up avenues for a negotiated settlement, though the governments track record in implementing peace accords with ethnic rebel groups is terrible.

Abuza noted that Arakan Army members, who are found north of the former Rohingya stronghold in Rakhine state, are well armed and militarily competent. Meanwhile, there is no evidence that Bangladesh forces or nationals are training or arming ARSA members.

To me, the Myanmar governments statement is just another justification to not take back any refugees, he said.

Reported by BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated online news service.
NEW YORK, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- delivery.com, a leading destination for online ordering, today announced that Fazoli's has launched on the platform. Fazoli's  the renowned, Lexington, KY-based brand known for serving up premium Italian dishes, is creating another way for customers to enjoy their food in the comfort of their home or office.

Fazoli's has nearly 220 restaurants in 28 states, and launched on delivery.com in early September. Customers who live in regions of Michigan, Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana, Tennessee, and Texas can order from Fazoli's for delivery or pickup via the delivery.com mobile web or App. Customers can earn points on every order, and find the location nearest to them.

"Fazoli's is excited to partner with delivery.com. Off-Premise sales continue to be a focus for our brand and we are thrilled to join the delivery.com platform to continue to bring the Fazoli's premium quality Italian food to guests where they live, work and play," said Jennifer Crawford, Director of Off-Premise Sales for Fazoli's.

Fazoli's classic Italian food offers choices for everyone, from classic staples like breadsticks and pastas to new dishes and combos like the Super Family Meal.

"The team at Fazoli's is genuinely committed to providing the best food for their customers, and we're proud to have their restaurants on our platform," said Nat Brogadir, CBO of delivery.com . "Powering the ordering experience for Fazoli's helps us bring people the menu favorites they love, no matter the occasion."

To order Fazoli's through delivery.com, visit delivery.com or download the delivery.com App on iOS or Android.

To get more information about being a merchant on the delivery.com platform, please visit https://www.delivery.com/info/merchants .

About delivery.com

delivery.com empowers the neighborhood economy by enabling consumers and corporate customers to order online from their favorite restaurants and other local businesses. More than three million delivery.com customers and delivery.com Office clients explore their communities and order from over 19,000 local businesses in more than 2,000 cities while at home, at work, or on the go. With headquarters in New York and a growing presence across the country, delivery.com makes e-commerce an integral part of local daily life, enabling customers to order, companies to provide, businesses to grow, and neighborhoods to thrive.

About Fazoli's

Founded in 1988 in Lexington, Ky., Fazoli's owns and operates nearly 220 restaurants in 28 states, making it the largest premium QSR Italian chain in America. Fazoli's prides itself on serving premium quality Italian food, fast, fresh and friendly. Menu offerings include freshly prepared pasta entrees, Submarinos sandwiches, salads, pizza and desserts  along with its unlimited signature breadsticks. Fazoli's is a winner of FastCasual and Steritech's 2020 Excellence in Food Safety Award and was named one of the "Top 200 Franchises in 2020" by Franchise Business Review, a FastCasual "Brand of the Year," and an Entrepreneur 2018 "Franchise 500." CEO Carl Howard was named among the most influential restaurant CEOs in the country in 2020 by Nation's Restaurant News, was recognized as one of the top 25 industry leaders on FastCasual's 2020 Top 100 Movers and Shakers list, and he and his team were recipients of the 2020 American Business Awards Gold Stevie Awards in Food & Beverage for Company of the Year, Achievement in Management and Human Resources Team of the Year.

Trademarks and/or trademark registrations referenced herein are the property of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

SOURCE delivery.com

Related Links

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Camper fire claims the life of two people in Marshall County
Moscow court to hear appeal against rappers detention in car crash case

 flickr.com/ quirischa

12:06 01/10/2020

MOSCOW, October 1 (RAPSI)  The Moscow City Court will consider an appeal against detention of rapper Elmin Guliyev in a case over hitting pedestrians by car in central Moscow on October 12, RAPSI was told in the press service of the Tagansky District Court on Thursday.

On September 23, the Tagansky District Court of Moscow ordered Guliyevs detention until November 21.

Initially, the man was charged with a road traffic offense that caused harm which endangered life or causes the victim severe bodily harm. But later charges against him were toughened after drugs had been found in his blood. Now he is prosecuted of committing a road traffic accident in a state of intoxication. He could face up to 7 years in jail if convicted.

According to the investigation, on September 21, Guliyev driving his Infiniti ran a red light at the signal controlled intersection and collided with another car. Then the defendants car went into a foot path and hit two people. They were taken to a hospital.
The Zamfara State governor, Bello Matawalle, has approved the setting up of a commission of inquiry to probe alleged misappropriation of over N107 billion by the immediate past administration in the state.

A statement issued by Mr Matawalles spokesperson, Zailani Bappah, said the figure is a total sum of money discovered to have been misappropriated between 2011 to 2019.

A spokesperson for Mr Yari has denied the allegations.

The decision to set up the commission was reached on Wednesday at a state executive council meeting and made public by the states deputy governor, Mahdi Aliyu Gusau.

This is partly a fallout of the final report of the Ahmad Zabarma committee constituted at the wake of this administration to find out the depth of engagement by the last administration in terms of public finances and procurement, which was equally submitted to the governor at the Government House.

According to the government, the committee disclosed that the last administration might have squandered the finances of the state to the tune of over N107 billion, which could not be properly accounted for.

For instance, the sum of N10 billion was discovered to have been paid to the state government from the federal government by e-payment, which also disappeared via e-payment within two days without any record of it in the appropriate books.

Another N10 billion found to have been paid in two tranches was discovered to have landed in the accounts of two bureau d change companies in Kano, the committee disclosed. Other shoddy deals involved many contracts awarded and either not executed or partly executed.

The committee, according to the official statement, also discovered that over 1,000 vehicles were said to have been purchased by the last administration without any trace of the vehicles.

The state government, therefore, owes it as a duty not to allow these findings to be swept under the carpet without properly addressing them, the state deputy governor said.

Last week, the state government announced the discovery of alleged misappropriation of about N37 billion promissory notes, which were lodged at a commercial bank and collected in a shoddy manner and the sums collected were also discovered to have disappeared in a jiffy.

The states former commissioner of finance during the Yari administration, Mukhtar Idris, however denied the state governments allegations on the promissory notes transaction.

The statement also quoted Governor Matawalle as assuring the citizens of the state that his administration will never be lenient on issues of betrayal of trust of the people by anyone, further assuring that justice will be done to the Zamfara people over this massive fraud.

Mr Bappah said details of the commission of inquiry and its complete terms of reference will be provided in due course.

A spokesman for Mr Yari, Ibrahim Birnin-Magaji, said the former governor is not afraid of any investigation.

We are not afraid at all because we have done nothing wrong. There is nothing they can find against us.

Fear grips only he who is guilty. We are waiting for the panel, let them bring it on, Mr Birnin-Magaji said.
CogniSure Launches Loss Run Analytics Tool

CogniSure announced the launch of a product that uses artificial intelligence to extract loss run data from insurance carrier reports that come in a variety of formats.

The company, with a U.S. headquarters in Warrenville, Illinois, said the patent-pending system can extract data from unstructured document formats, such as PDF documents, and converts them into actionable insights. The data is converted into a single-page loss report.

The platform can be used to reduce the cost of business and help customers prevent losses, according to Chief Executive Officer Sai Raman.

CogniSure said its system has learned the loss run formats used by the the top 25 property and casualty insurers and will be trained in the top 100 carrier loss run platforms by the end of the year. The system is currently being piloted by commercial insurance carriers, brokers, managing general agents and lenders, the company said.

Raman wrote a viewpoint column about the problem of extracting data from commercial insurer loss runs that the Claims Journal posted on Aug. 31.

Spruce Teams With Munich Re For Title Insurance

Spruce, a data analytics provider for the real estate industry, announced that it has teamed up with Munich Re to launch a cost-effective title insurance product built on an automated process.

Spruce, based in New York City, said in a press release that the product will help solve a historically stagnant aspect of the title insurance and mortgage industries: price.

Our automated underwriting paired with the backing and security of Munich Re allows us to offer lower pricing for title insurance and a best-in-class experience for lenders, real estate companies, and consumers, stated Spruce Chief Executive Officer Patrick Burns. As a result, we can further reduce the friction in real estate and mortgage transactions for all involved, bringing us closer to a one-click check-out for real estate transactions.

Title insurance policies will be underwritten by American Digital Title Insurance Co., which is owned by Digital Partners, a Munich Re subsidiary. The partnership with Munich Re also builds on Spruces existing relationship with Munich Re Ventures, which is an investor in the technology company.

Spruce said it works with mortgage lenders, real estate investors, and technology companies nationwide to fulfill real estate transactions in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Since launching in 2016, Spruce has enabled more than $3.5 billion of transaction volume.

Agero Contracts with Lyft

Agero has contracted with Lyft to provide insurers that wish to offer alternative transportation to policyholders though the companys digital accident claims management platform.

The new option complements existing rental car provisions on many policies to improve flexibility for insurers, while also boosting customer satisfaction, the Medford, Mass.-based tech company said in a press release. The alternative transportation can be offered at the scene of an accident, or at any point during the repair process, the company said.

Ride dispatch with Lyft gives insurers a transportation alternative to the daily rate of a rental car and the inconvenience and COVID-related safety concerns associated with riding with the tow truck driver in the passenger seat, improving both cost control and policyholder experience, stated Steve Medeiros, vice president of client services for Agero.

As part of the new service, insurers can extend to policyholders a Lyft ride from the accident location to the repair shop or other desired locations. Agero agents will arrange for the rides. Insurers can control program limits, such as ride cost or distance, and use it to supplement or replace rental car provisions, as desired.

Agero said it will continue to dispatch any towing, or connect the driver to emergency 911 services, as necessary, such as in the case of automatic crash notification where the driver does not respond.
The second wave always has the potential to be more deadly than the first, and never has that been more true than with regard to Priti Patels brand new plan to send asylum seekers to live on a volcano 4,000 miles away.

The first wave was the news itself, which struck two days ago, that the home secretary had had her staff investigate the possibility of processing British asylum seekers on Ascension Island, fully 4,000 miles away, with a native population of 880 and one direct flight per week, which is not from the UK.

The instant reaction to this was that this was a stupid idea, principally because it is a stupid idea. A staggeringly stupid one. The reason for this, and I dont say this lightly or without due consideration, is that Patel is a staggeringly stupid person.

This is scarcely even an opinion but quite possibly a statement of fact. If you dont agree then do watch the video of our now home secretary, on BBC Question Time nine years ago, arguing in favour of the return of the death penalty, when it is pointed out to her that everywhere it exists, it leads to the execution of innocent people.

And watch her not merely disagree with this point, but be demonstrably incapable of understanding it. It is simply too complex for her. She cannot understand it.

The second wave, though, came with the polling. Actually, it turns out that 40 per cent of the country think that having an asylum centre on Ascension Island is a good idea, compared to a mere 35 per cent who think its a bad idea.

This discrepancy was, inevitably, seized upon by Brexiteers, particularly Michael Heaver, the former Brexit Party MEP. That it is, on any terms, a complete self-own continues, sadly, to elude him.

But this is the thing about populism. Its popular. The clue is in the name. Easy solutions are popular. Far more popular than complex problems. And we live in a democracy, so if the people like the solution, the people must be right, and the problem is solved.

Five years ago, I happened to go out canvassing with Jacob Rees Mogg in Somerset for the 2015 election. It was approaching the height of the migrant crisis in the Mediterranean. It was a week after The Sun had published an article by Katie Hopkins, referring to the drowning families as cockroaches." A man approached Mr Rees-Mogg, carrying a copy of The Sun under his arm, with refugees in the Mediterranean forming its front page splash. I probably shouldnt say this, he said. But Im glad theyre drowning.

 Boris Johnson says he has confidence in Priti Patel following bullying allegations

Beating down on asylum seekers is popular. The more brutal the plan, the more popular it is likely to be. It wont solve the problem, of course, thats far more difficult and infinitely beyond Ms Patels capabilities, but, you know, if the people like it, who cares?

We also now know that Ascension Island is not the only lightbulb going off above Patels head. Shes also been looking at Moldova, Morocco and Papua New Guinea. Shes been looking at offshore oil rigs, and disused passenger ferries (because theres absolutely no evidence around, at the moment, to suggest that cruise ships are a bad idea). Shes also been looking at, brace for it, chaining small boats together to stop migrant boats from landing, some sort of underwater barrier, and arguably the best of all, a giant artificial wave machine, which we understand has now been ruled out on the basis it would capsize the overly laden boats and drown those onboard.

We understand the more draconian measures have been ruled out on the basis they all stand in clear contradiction of international law, which may even come as some comfort to know our government is still vaguely aware of such a thing.

That these plans have been leaked have also displeased the populist masters. We cannot know for certain if it was Dominic Cummings or merely one of his obsequious band of impressionists who provided the following quote to Politico in response to the news:

There is a rotten core of civil servants who have never gotten over Brexit, want revenge for the incompetent [Philip] Rutnam and fear the hard rain that is coming. Theyre the enemy within and will be rooted out.

Your entry level madness is here is that the thing theyre angry about is the instant reaction to the stupidity of their own plans.

One up from that is the reference to the Home Offices chief civil servant, Philip Rutnam, who stood down earlier this year claiming he had been subjected to systemic bullying by Patel. The official investigation into that has not been published by 10 Downing Street. The prime ministers official spokesperson has been asked when it will be published more than 20 times in the last three months in his daily briefing with Westminster journalists and has each time refused to answer the question. But in the meantime, we must, alas read the above line and come to our own conclusions about whether its possible that Rutnam might have been telling the truth.

And then theres the vertigo-inducing top level. The one in which Cummings and Co use the word incompetent with reference to actual other people. It is difficult to say whether there is a single person anywhere in the country who could name a single thing they have achieved beyond turning themselves into a by-word for incompetence, levelling said charge against others.

Of course, even Cummingss harshest critics might, somewhere buried very deep within, be prepared to admit to a small kindling of hope that he might know what hes doing, that there really is some grand plan. That its not always going to be this unutterably awful. That maybe one day, hell spend 500m of public money on a weird satellite company run by his mates that then goes bankrupt and itll all come good. That we just need to get through this next bit, when all of the senior civil servants have quit, and when only the most useless cabinet in British political history by several orders of magnitude remains, at that point the plan can finally come good.

Hope, really, is all you can do. The alternative is to concede that this unimaginable shambles really is the best theyve got. That they really are just two-bit populists without the tiniest clue what theyre doing. And that couldnt be true, could it?
WASHINGTON  President Donald Trump has enough support from Latino voters to win Texas, but Joe Biden could pull off an upset if he wins two-thirds of the Latino vote in the state  something Hillary Clinton came close to doing in 2016  a new analysis finds.

The analysis, by the Texas Hispanic Policy Foundation, says Trump currently holds enough support from Latino voters, 41 percent, to stave off a loss in the state. On the other hand, a poll released this week found otherwise, showing Biden with 66 percent of the Latino vote.

DO POLLS UNDERESTIMATE DEM SUPPORT? Beto ORourke says they do  and that Texas is Bidens to lose

A surge in Hispanic support for Biden could turn the state blue, policy foundation President Jason Villalba, a former Republican state representative from Dallas, said in a statement. Both campaigns should be taking Hispanic Texans very seriously right now.

The group, using exit polls and voter file reports, projected that Hispanics will make up 27 percent of the electorate in Texas this year  up from 24 percent in 2016 and 22 percent in 2012. The group says its enough to decide the election.

The group pointed to polling it conducted in August that found Biden had the support of just 58 percent of those voters. If Trump is able to hold onto the 41-percent support among Texas Latinos he had in that polling, he will win the state with 52 percent of the vote as he did in 2016, policy foundation estimates.

DOUG MILLS, STF / NYT

The policy foundations poll was conducted between August 4 and August 13 among a representative sample of 846 Texas registered voters with a Hispanic oversample. It carried a margin of error of 3.5 percentage points.

Clinton won the support of 61 percent of Latino voters in 2016, according to THPFs analysis. She lost the state overall by 9 points, 43 to 52.

REPUBLICANS LEADING: Trump and Sen. John Cornyn lead Democratic rivals in recent polls

The THPF findings are in line with a Quinnipiac University poll released last week that showed Biden leading Trump by 8 points among Texas Hispanics.

But it also follows a University of Houston-Univision News survey released Tuesday that found Biden holding a much more commanding lead among Latino voters  66 percent, compared to 25 percent for Trump.

The state Democratic Party criticized the policy foundations analysis, calling Villalba a right-wing operative.

Credible polls show that Joe Biden is winning the Latino community in Texas handily, said Abhi Rahman, a spokesman for the party. Biden will win the state of Texas and the Latino community will be a major factor that puts him over the top.

ben.wermund@chron.com
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State-owned defence company Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders' initial public offering has seen strong demand since the day one. It is now subscribed 157.4 times so far on October 1, the last day of bidding, which was the highest subscription than Happiest Minds (151 times) this year.

The public issue has received bids for 481.6 crore equity shares against offer size of 3.06 crore equity shares, the data available on the exchanges showed.

The non-institutional investors increased their bids significantly on the final day as their reserved portion has oversubscribed by 679 times.

Retail investors have been active in bidding from the day one as the portion set aside for these investors has seen 35.6 times subscription.

The reserved portion of qualified institutional buyers witnessed 89.7 times subscription and that of employees 3.88 times.

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders IPO: Grey market premium at about 100%

Mazagon Dock is going to raise Rs 444 crore via public issue which consists of only offer for sale of 3,05,99,017 equity shares by the government. The issue included employees reserved portion of 3,45,517 equity shares.

"We believe Mazagon Dock IPO offer gives investors an opportunity to play on Indian growing defense story allied with Make in India push. We read out that it is the only company in the country to manufacture warships and submarines for the Indian Navy and also constructs cargo ships, multipurpose support vessels, dredgers and water tankers," Prashanth Tapse, AVP Research at Mehta Group told Moneycontrol.

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders IPO opens today: Subscribe or avoid?

Most of bids so far seem to have received at higher end of price band of Rs 135-145 per share.

"On valuations parse at upper price band (Rs 145), the issue is asking for market capitalisation Rs 2,925 crore with PE (FY20) 6x compared to industry average of around 10x and P/BV below 1x versus industry average of around 1.52x, which seems to be fairly and reasonably prices with something left on the table for listing gains," Tapse said.

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders IPO Opens Today: 10 key things you should know

Considering attractive valuations and the objective of the issue which is to carry out the disinvestment of equity shares by the selling shareholder constituting 15.17 percent (offer for sale) paid up equity share capital, Tapse recommended investors to go a subscribe for listing gain.

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders, with having a Mini Ratna status, was incorporated in 1934 as a private company which was later taken over by the government under warship development programme and is now India's leading defence PSU under Ministry of defence.

Company is primarily engaged in constructing and repairing warships and submarines and other types of vessels i.e. cargo ships, multipurpose support vessels, barges and border outposts, tugs, dredgers, water tankers, etc. for commercial clients.

It is the only shipyard to build destroyers and conventional submarines to be used by the Indian Navy with a maximum shipbuilding and submarine capacity of 40,000 DW.

As of now, it has built 795 vessels, including 25 warships, 4 missile boats, 3 submarines, 6 Leander class frigates, 3 Godavari class frigates, 3 Shivalik class frigates, 3 corvettes, and 6 destroyers.
The African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights has published its revised Rules of Court, adopted on September 1st, 2020, and enforced on September 25.



The new Rules replace the 2010 Rules of Court.



They seek to enhance the effectiveness of the Court by, among other things, facilitating access to the Court, improving the management of cases and ensuring better implementation of the decisions of the Court.



According to the African Court, a soft copy of the Rules could be downloaded from the website of the African Continental Court in French and English.



Arabic and Portuguese versions would be uploaded in due course.



Justice Sylvain Ore, President of the African Court told the Ghana News Agency that the Court was composed of eleven Judges, nationals of Member States of the African Union, who were elected in their individual capacity.



He said the African Court met four times a year in Ordinary Sessions and could hold Extra-Ordinary Sessions.

Source: GNA









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On September 27, the family of South Carolina teacher Demetria Bannister who passed away earlier this month confirmed that her mother died of the same illness.

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In the era of COVID-19, it is hard enough for people to go about life at the same pace when the world is not the same as they knew it a year ago.

As if the crippling anxiety that comes with coming in terms with this new reality was not bad enough, the looming fear of losing a loved one to the disease only makes things worse.

For thousands and thousands of people, the fear has manifested into a grim reality. This invisible enemy holds no prisoners, moving from one carrier to another ever so stealthily.

The novel coronavirus. | Source: Pexels

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AN OVERWHELMING LOSS

Such was the case with a mother and daughter from South Carolina who lost their lives in the same month due to the novel coronavirus. According to News 19, Shirley Bannister, the mother of her elementary school teacher daughter Demetria who died earlier in September, recently passed away.

Demetria taught at Windsor Elementary in Columbia. She was 28 years old when she succumbed to the illness. Just like her, her mother Shirley was an educator and worked at Midlands Technical College as a nursing instructor.

Shirley's brother, Dennis Bell, told CNN that she had gotten pretty sick days after her daughter died. She had a history of asthma and diabetes. He further revealed that she had gone to the hospital twice, but the doctors decided to keep her the second time around only.

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LOVED ONES ARE HEARTBROKEN

According to Bell, his sister was overwhelmed after losing her daughter to the disease a few weeks ago. He described her death as an unexpected punch in the gut for the whole family.

Demetria tested positive for COVID-19 when she had just started her fifth year at Windsor Elementary School.

Bell said that Shirley and her daughter were the best of friends. They loved to spend time together and often go to dinner, the movies, and concerts. They were each other's ride or die.

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Midlands Technical College's president Ronald Rhames said in a statement that his heart was broken after the tragedy. Calling her an angel, he went on to share that her life's mission was to care for others.

Her death is undoubtedly devastating, but Rhames said that the impact that she had was everlasting. She is survived by her husband, Dennis, who has now lost his family since Demetria was their only daughter.

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ONLY IN MEMORIES NOW

Demetria tested positive for COVID-19 when she had just started her fifth year at Windsor Elementary School. On September 4, she tested positive for the virus. Reports state that she was remotely teaching from home but went out for a teacher preparation day at school on August 28.

Her coworkers at Windsor remember her as someone who brought a great deal of joy to their school. She was known as Windsor's "Songbird" because of her beautiful singing voice.
NEW YORK, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Bernstein Liebhard, a nationally acclaimed investor rights law firm, reminds investors of the deadline to file a lead plaintiff motion in a securities class action that has been filed on behalf of investors that purchased or acquired the securities of Eastman Kodak Company ("Kodak" or the "Company") (NYSE: KODK) between July 27, 2020 and August 11, 2020 (the "Class Period"). The lawsuit filed in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey alleges violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

If you purchased Kodak securities, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit Kodak Shareholder Lawsuit or contact Matthew E. Guarnero toll free at (877) 779-1414 or [email protected].

The Complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding the Company's business, operations and prospects. Specifically, Defendants failed to disclose that the Company had granted Defendant Continenza and several other Company insiders millions of dollars' worth of stock options, immediately prior to the Company publicly disclosing that it had received a $765 million loan from the DFC to produce drugs to treat COVID-19, which Defendants knew would cause Kodak's stock to immediately increase in value once the deal was announced. In addition, while in possession of this material non-public information, Defendant Continenza and other Company insiders purchased tens of thousands of the Company's shares immediately prior to the announcement, again at prices that they knew would increase exponentially once news of the loan became public.

On August 1, 2020, a Reuters article reported new details of the "unusual" 1.75 million option grant to Continenza. The article stated that according to "a person familiar with the arrangement," the option award "occurred because of an understanding" between Continenza and Kodak's Board of Directors "that had previously neither been listed in his employment contract nor made public." Further, "[t]he decision to grant Continenza options was never formalized or made into a binding agreement, which is why it was not disclosed previously." Concurrently market observers questioned why Kodak, historically a technology company, had been selected for a DPA loan related to pharmaceutical supplies over companies with more experience in the pharmaceutical industry.

In reaction to this news, Kodak's stock price plummeted $6.91 per share to close at $14.94 per share on August 3, 2020  a decline of over 34% per share.

On August 5, 2020, several Congressional committees sent a joint letter to Defendant Continenza seeking documents about the loan, insider trading, and stock options for their review of "DFC's decision to award this loan to Kodak despite your company's lack of pharmaceutical experience and the windfall gained by you and other company executives as a result of this loan" which raised "questions that must be thoroughly examined." The committees also sent a document request to the DFC's Chief Executive Officer on the same day, inquiring about the Kodak loan, which the letter noted was "an organization that was on the brink of failure in 2012 and was unsuccessful in its previous foray into pharmaceutical manufacturing."

On August 7, 2020, after the market closed, the DFC announced, "on July 28, we signed a Letter of Interest with Eastman Kodak. Recent allegations of wrongdoing raise serious concerns. We will not proceed any further unless these allegations are cleared."

On this news, the Company's stock price declined $4.15, or 28%, from $14.88 per share on August 7, 2020, to $10.73 per share on August 10, 2020.

If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than October 13, 2020. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff. If you choose to take no action, you may remain an absent class member.

If you purchased Kodak securities, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit https://www.bernlieb.com/cases/eastmankodakcompany-kodk-shareholder-class-action-lawsuit-stock-fraud-290/apply/ or contact Matthew E. Guarnero toll free at (877) 779-1414 or [email protected].

Since 1993, Bernstein Liebhard LLP has recovered over $3.5 billion for its clients. In addition to representing individual investors, the Firm has been retained by some of the largest public and private pension funds in the country to monitor their assets and pursue litigation on their behalf. As a result of its success litigating hundreds of lawsuits and class actions, the Firm has been named to The National Law Journal's "Plaintiffs' Hot List" thirteen times and listed in The Legal 500 for ten consecutive years.

ATTORNEY ADVERTISING.  2020 Bernstein Liebhard LLP. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Bernstein Liebhard LLP, 10 East 40th Street, New York, New York 10016, (212) 779-1414. The lawyer responsible for this advertisement in the State of Connecticut is Michael S. Bigin. Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

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NEW YORK, N.Y. -- A tagged deer from Staten Island, spotted running around Brooklyn this week was sedated and returned to the Island, because thats where it came from, the citys Parks Department said, despite the agency saying the animal posed an immediate threat and safety hazard to residents in Brooklyn.

The Parks Department said deer are strong swimmers and have been seen swimming from Staten Island to Brooklyn in the past. But Parks and the NYPD both did not know how exactly the Staten Island deer got to Brooklyn, which cops chased around Gravesend, Brooklyn for hours, the New York Post reported.

The NYPD told SILive.com/Advance its Emergency Service Unit brought the animal -- tagged 1592 -- to the Great Kills Wildlife Animal Sanctuary.

However, no such sanctuary appears to exist on Staten Island, and neither the NYPD nor the Parks Department could provide the exact location of where the animal was transported.

The tagged buck found in Brooklyn was transported to Staten Island because thats where it originated, said Parks Department spokesperson Charisse Hill.

The Parks Department said the deer was found in a densely populated neighborhood in Brooklyn which posed an immediate threat and safety issue to residents.

But pressed then on why the city would return the animal to a borough which is also densely populated, Parks said deer are returned to areas that already have an established deer population.

Brooklyn: A dear that was running around in the vicinity of Ocean Parkway & Avenue W in Flatbush, going into private property's was eventually caught by @FlatbushShomrim and @NYPD61Pct. pic.twitter.com/Imh0TOCouO  Real Buffing News (@RealBuffingNews) September 29, 2020

ISLAND REPS CRITICAL OF MOVE

The Parks Department pointed out that Staten Island already has an established deer population and Brooklyn does not.

Hill said the tag on the deer proved it was part of Staten Islands white-tailed deer population and that it had received a vasectomy at Ocean Breeze Park in December 2019.

But Borough President James Oddo called the city out for sending the deer back to Staten Island, arguing the borough should not be the default repository for all deer caught in other boroughs -- tagged or not.

Lets hope 1592 doesnt collide with a vehicle on Staten Island at some point in the future. Lets hope 1592 doesnt drop ticks in a city park that eventually spread Lyme Disease to a Staten Islander. Lets hope 1592 doesnt worsen the ecological devastation of the Borough of Parks, Oddo said. He might just do all of the above, whether hes had a vasectomy or not, and that captures why this program is a blatant failure.

Minority Leader Steven Matteo (R-Mid Island) also questioned why the city would send the deer to Staten Island if it was wreaking havoc in Brooklyn."

I dont think it makes any sense to send a wild deer that was wreaking havoc in Brooklyn back to Staten Island, so it can wreak havoc here," Matteo said. "This whole episode once again calls into question whether this deer vasectomy program is working and whether we should rethink this plan.

Winter will mark year five of what has become a $6.6 million vasectomy program on the boroughs deer population.

An $84 million cut to the Parks Departments overall fiscal year 2021 budget, including a $700,000 cut to the vasectomy programs budget, initially forced the city to suspend the program for the rest of the year and beyond.

But Mayor Bill de Blasio decided to restore the $700,000 in funding so that vasectomies can resume this winter after he discovered the programs budget had been cut.

In 2017, city contractor White Buffalo counted about 2,053 deer on Staten Island in its first population estimate, and at the end of year four of the program, which finished in January, the contractor counted 1,555 deer -- a 24% drop.

As of April, the city said 93% of the antlered males on Staten Island had been sterilized.

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Georgina Jacobson Real estate expert Georgina Jacobson extends unparalleled market knowledge and unrivaled expertise to clients all over Orange County and beyond.

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Real estate expert Georgina Jacobson extends unparalleled market knowledge and unrivaled expertise to clients all over Orange County and beyond. Because of her local knowledge and experience, Georgina has handled transactions for custom homes in Big Canyon, Emerald Bay, Smithcliffs, Harbor Island, Linda Isle, Irvine Terrace, Balboa Island, Pelican Hill, Pelican Point, Irvine Cove, and Crystal Cove. Demonstrating exceptional knowledge of the high-end market, Georgina has managed landmark sales, including a Corona del Mar landmark sale asking $36 million, a $17 million sale on Harbor Island, $14 million on Linda Isle, $10 million-plus sale in Irvine Terrace, $8 million in Pelican Point, $7.5 million in Shady Canyon and a prestigious Rancho Latigo family compound listing for $40 million in Santa Ynez. Georgina is extremely well versed in the luxury market of Orange County, and she takes pride in her ability to negotiate win-win transactions for buyers and sellers alike.

A resident of Newport Beach for over 30 years and a licensed real estate agent for the past 25 years, Georgina possesses a unique understanding of the various differences among the communities along the Orange County coast. She also has a keen understanding of the cutting edge market trends in todays real estate market and she stays current with all of its changing conditions.

Georginas integrity and commitment to her clients make her an asset to every transaction. As a graduate of USC, Georgina enjoys calling California home and she takes pride in providing the highest level of service to all of her clients, whether buying or selling. With a background in marketing, Georgina is able to quickly identify the most appropriate strategy for selling a home.

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An 85-year-old woman missing since Wednesday evening from Russell County was found safe Thursday in Kentucky.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency issued a Missing and Endangered Alert of Joyce Crosby of Russell County Thursday morning. They did not say when she was reported missing but said she was last known to be in Birmingham at 7 a.m. Thursday driving a gold 2003 Mercury Marquis with Alabama license plate number TPL380. They said Crosby is suffering from a condition that may impair her judgement.

Her granddaughter posted on Facebook that Crosby was found in Shepherdsville, Ky. and was taken to a hospital as a precaution. According to the Facebook post, Crosby was last known to be in Phenix City at 5 p.m. Wednesday. Authorities determined she bought gas around midnight in Anniston and then again in the Irondale area about 6 a.m. Thursday.
In a letter to the Albanian Chairmanship of the OSCE, Minister of Foreign Affairs Nikos Dendias requested a special meeting of the OSCE Permanent Council to discuss the issue immediately.



Furthermore, Nikos Dendias will pay a scheduled visit to Yerevan.



As the Minister of Foreign Affairs underlined during his recent meeting with US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, the escalating tension in Nagorno-Karabakh has seriously impacted regional stability.



Greeces initiative aims at holding talks in the context of the OSCE with the participation of the two parties involved and at examining all possible means to de-escalate the crisis. The urgent resumption of negotiations, in the context of the Minsk Group, so as to reach a peaceful resolution to the dispute, remains the goal.



The abovementioned letter concerns Greeces readiness to contribute to the efforts to de-escalate the crisis immediately. Greeces readiness was also expressed by Minister of Foreign Affairs Nikos Dendias to his Armenian counterpart, Zohrab Mnatsakanyan, during their recent telephone conversation, during which the close ties of friendship between Greece and Armenia were reaffirmed.



There will be further communication with Minister Mnatsakanyan tomorrow via video conference.



Greece is convinced that the crisis can be resolved solely through peaceful means and through negotiations, not through arms.



Greece condemns any third-party interference that stokes tensions.



In this context, Turkey ought to abstain from actions and statements in that direction.
Syrian schools have recorded 41 cases of the coronavirus, but the School Health Department is confident of the measures that have been taken to contain the spread writes SANA.

On Wednesday, the Education Ministry announced that the number of coronavirus infections among the students and administrational and educational cadres operating at schools reached 41 cases.

The ministry said, in a statement, that according to the School Health Department data, most of the infection cases were in the schools of Damascus countryside with 17 infections, while the rest were distributed as four in Tartous, two in Suweida, four in Aleppo, two in Hama, five in Homs, one in Quneitra and six in Damascus.

No cases were registered till now in the provinces of Daraa, Lattakia, Hassakeh, Raqqa and Deir ez-Zor, according to the ministry, asserting that the health situation of the infected students and teachers is good and their infections dont necessitate admittance to hospitals and they are quarantining at home.

In a statement to SANA, the Director of the School Health Department at the ministry, Dr. Hatoun al-Tawashi, said that every student who has coronavirus symptoms is referred to the monitoring team to determine whether it is necessary to conduct a test or not, and if a positive test is revealed in one of the classes then several tests are conducted for those who were in the proximity of the infected students and the class should be closed for five days.

Tawashi said that any student or teacher who has respiratory infections or high temperatures should remove themselves from school until the symptoms disappear, calling on the administrational and teaching cadres to shoulder their responsibilities in this regard.

On Sept. 20, 2020, the School Health Department in Damascus closed a class in one of the schools for five days, after a coronavirus infection was identified in a student, and according to the adopted Health Protocol, all necessary measures were taken to test the students and teachers in the school.

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.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Students in middle and high schools across New York City public schools will return to campus for the first day of in-person learning Thursday, as part of the citys phased-in reopening amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Mayor Bill de Blasio announced in September that the city would start the process of returning students to school buildings in phases, with the academic year kicking off for some in-person and all remote learners on Sept. 21.

Students in 3-K, pre-K, and District 75 were the first to begin reporting for in-person learning on Sept. 21, followed by K-5 and K-8 students on Tuesday. Middle and high school students begin returning Thursday, Oct. 1.

The plan is the right plan, but we have to make sure its implemented properly, is exactly right. And thats what parents would want of us, the mayor said when announcing the phased reopening plan.

Across New York City, students are returning to school buildings part-time under a blended learning model, or they are at home remotely full-time for the 2020-2021 academic year. Those participating in the blended learning model attend school one to three days a week -- learning remotely on the other days.

And there are an abundance of safety protocols and procedures in place to curb the spread of the coronavirus while kids are learning in-person, including faces masks and social distancing.

Whether blended or remote, parents have been coming up with creative ways to make the school year digestible for their children -- but not without cost. Many Staten Island parents have been forced to pay hundreds of dollars more for school supplies this year compared to previous years.

*** CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE COVERAGE OF CORONAVIRUS IN NEW YORK ***

And school will look much different for students at Tottenville and Susan E. Wagner high schools.

According to the city Department of Education (DOE), Tottenville High School in Huguenot and Wagner High School in Sea View informed parents over the weekend that all students would receive instruction virtually  which means there wont be the traditional live in-person instruction  but students in the blended learning model will still be on campus on their designated days.

The DOE said this doesnt mean the two high schools are fully remote. Instead, students will be seated in a classroom -- but will tune into their lessons via a device.

Students at the two high schools will be provided educational support by qualified educators in-person, in addition to receiving virtual instruction from teachers, the DOE said. That means that students at Tottenville and Wagner will arrive to school on their blended learning days and sit in a classroom to learn remotely with their device.

The DOE said this provides a continuity of instruction for students, while offering students critical in-person services, supports, resources and instructional opportunities.

PHASED SCHOOL REOPENING

It was a mix of excitement and jitters as preschool, special education, and elementary school students across Staten Island returned to public school buildings for their first day on campus.

The Advance/SILive.com visited PS/I.S. 48 and PS 9 in Concord, PS 56 in Rossville, and PS 78 in Stapleton for the first day of in-person learning on Tuesday. Joseph Newman, a kindergarten student at PS 56, proudly shared his big accomplishment on the first day of school: I made my own lunch -- baloney and cheese and mayonnaise.

Teachers, staff and Principal Jodi Contento welcomed students back to the PS 78 campus as they arrived Tuesday morning.

It was a lot of work, a lot of preparation and a lot of family communication and outreach, which can be challenging, but it was all well worth it to bring us to the point that were at today and to be able to open in the middle of a national health crisis, Contento said.

Students in pre-K, 3-K, and District 75 were the first set of children to return for in-person instruction on Monday, Sept. 21.

Im excited. I wish he was going full-time, said Chris Fattorusso, parent of eighth-grader Vincent, who goes to PS 37 in Great Kills. I think, especially with special needs children, they need the structure -- so Im very excited. He needs this.

A District 75 school, PS 37 educates students who are on the autism spectrum, have cognitive delays, are severely emotionally challenged, sensory impaired or multiply disabled.

HOW NYC IS REOPENING SCHOOLS

New York Citys schools closed last March in an effort to stem the outbreak of the coronavirus, and kids finished the school year via a distance learning model.

This school year, if new coronavirus cases surpass the 3% threshold using a seven-day rolling average, all school buildings in New York City will need to close once again.

The DOE recently released the 2020-2021 school calendar for New York City public school families.

The calendar for 2020-2021 includes some two dozen days off between the first day of school, on Monday, Sept. 21, and the last day of classes on Friday, June 25, 2021.

The nations largest school district is reopening school buildings amid the current health crisis as various concerns among parents and educators linger, including the possibility of a teacher shortage and the ability to advance the curriculum.

Catholic school students in New York City went back to school earlier this month.
Lucknow, Oct 1 : The Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court on Thursday took suo motu cognizance of the Hathras incident and issued notice to the Uttar Pradesh government.

The Uttar Pradesh government and the UP Police are under attack over the alleged gang-rape of a Dalit woman and the way her cremation was done by the Hathras administration in the dead of night.

Meanwhile, the state government on Thursday said that the forensic report has revealed that the 19-year-old Hathras woman who succumbed to her injuries at a Delhi hospital was not raped.

ADG, Law and Order, Prashant Kumar said the cause of her death is an injury on the neck and trauma resulting due to it, as per the forensic science laboratory (FSL) report.

"The report of the FSL has come. It says clearly that samples did not have sperm. It makes clear that there was no rape or gang rape," the ADG said.

"Even the woman in her statement to police did not mention about rape but talked about 'marpeet' (beating) only," he said.

Last week, Additional Superintendent of Police, Hathras, Prakash Kumar had told media persons that initially the accused were booked for attempt to murder under Section 307 of the Indian Penal Code.

Later, on receiving more inputs, Section 376-D (gangrape) of the IPC was added to the FIR, he had said.

ADG Prashant Kumar said some people presented wrong facts to disturb social harmony and create caste violence in the state.

"Police took immediate action in the case and now we will identify those who tried to disturb social harmony and create caste violence," he added.

Meanwhile, Hathras District Magistrate Praveen Kumar Laxkar has been caught on camera issuing a veiled threat to family members of the 19-year-old Dalit girl whose death has sparked nationwide outrage.

In a video that has surfaced, Laxkar can be seen telling the girl's father: "Half of the media people have left today, the other half will leave by tomorrow. Only we will stand with you. It is up to you whether you want to change your statement or not."
In a harbinger of legal action yet to come from Oregons catastrophic wildfires, three Pacific Northwest law firms have filed a class action lawsuit against Pacific Power and its parent company, Portland-based PacifiCorp, alleging negligence in the catastrophic fires ignited during a Labor Day windstorm, some of which were sparked by downed power lines.

The lead plaintiffs, Jeanyne James and Robin Colbert, are a couple from Lyons who lost their home, their garage, four cars and all their personal belongings during the Labor Day fires in the Santiam Canyon.

The suit, filed in Multnomah County Circuit Court, claims that despite being warned of extremely critical fire conditions and a historic high-wind event, PacifiCorp left its power lines around the state energized. As the forecasted winds came on in full force, they toppled power lines, igniting trees, brush and grass.

Defendants' energized power lines ignited massive, deadly and destructive fires that raced down the canyons, igniting and destroying homes, businesses and schools, the suit alleges. These fires burned over hundreds of thousands of acres, destroyed thousands of structures, killed people and upended countless lives.

PacifiCorp spokesman Drew Hanson said Wednesday, As a company, we do not comment on pending litigation.

Pacific Power does face an unusual degree of potential exposure in the fires that started Labor Day. It operates local distribution systems -- and in some cases high-voltage lines -- that run through the center of the Santiam Canyon fires along Oregon 22; the Almeda Fire in the Rogue Valley, the Slater fire that started near Happy Camp, California and blew into Oregon; the Archie Creek fire in the Umpqua National Forest; and the Echo Mountain Complex fire in Lincoln City.

Several thousand homes and structures were destroyed in the fires, which also claimed nine lives in Oregon and another two in California. If an electrical line is found responsible for any of them, the liability could be substantial, as evidenced by the bankruptcy of Californias largest utility, Pacific Gas & Electric, after one of its transmission lines sparked the Camp fire in 2018. That fire devastated the town of Paradise, destroying 11,000 homes and claiming 85 lives.

PG&Es equipment has been found to have set dozens of fires in recent years, and it was facing $30 billion in claims before filing for bankruptcy protection. It agreed in May to pay $13.5 billion in cash and stock to settle those claims.

Fire officials have yet to designate an official cause for most of Oregons Labor Day fires, though anecdotal accounts from around the state suggest power lines were a contributing factor. The Northwest Interagency Fire Coordination Center said in mid-September that downed power lines were responsible for setting 13 separate fires along the Santiam Canyon from Mehama to Detroit.

Indeed, a fire command center set up at the Gates School was incinerated Labor Day evening after a power line fell on a cyclone fence surrounding the school, arced and set off a number of fires simultaneously. It destroyed the camp, including equipment parked there, and firefighters were forced to retreat.

PacifiCorp has previously said it doesnt know if its equipment caused any fires. It has also declined to address questions about the extent of its service territory. But Diane Turnbull, the executive director of the Upward Bound Camp, which owns the old school property, told The Oregonian/OregonLive that Pacific Power is their service provider.

The other utility that serves customers up the canyon, Consumers Power, says it de-energized its lines on Labor Day amid the intense fire danger. Pacific Power has developed plans in recent years for preemptive blackouts at times of high fire risk, but it told The Oregonian/OregonLive that it did not do so in advance on Labor Day because it could have created more issues for suppression and evacuation efforts.

PacifiCorp is hardly alone among utilities facing potential liabilities. Lane Electric Cooperative and the Eugene Water and Electric Board are the local service providers along the McKenzie River, where the Holiday Farm fire destroyed hundreds of structures. The Bonneville Power Administration owns high-voltage lines in both drainages. Portland General Electric owns high-voltage lines in the Santiam Canyon and is the local service provider for the areas affected by the Riverside fire in Clackamas County.

The lawsuit filed Wednesday claims negligence by Pacific Power for allegedly failing to maintain its lines, poles, transformers and equipment to ensure they would not become a source of fires. The lawsuit claims the utility failed to adequately clear vegetation, and then failed to de-energize its power lines during critical fire conditions that it was well aware of and had already warned customers about.

Additional claims include nuisance, public nuisance and trespassing. The lawsuit also seeks an injunction forcing the company to de-energize power lines during critical fire conditions and an accounting of the damages in the fires.

Many of these fires were not ignited by lightning or careless campers, said Daniel Mensher, a lawyer at Keller Rohrback in Seattle and a former environmental law professor at Lewis & Clark Law School. Instead, these fires were whipped to their overwhelming size by a series of ignitions caused by these defendants' power linesAt the end of the day, these tragic losses could have been prevented. These community-destroying fires were not inevitable.

The other law firms involved in the lawsuit are Stoll Berne and Nick Kahl, LLC, both of Portland.

Correction: The Oregon wildfires have claimed nine lives to date. An earlier version of this story misstated the number.

-- Ted Sickinger; tsickinger@oregonian.com; 503-221-8505; @tedsickinger

Subscribe to Oregonian/OregonLive newsletters and podcasts for the latest news and top stories.
In addition to the care they took with her mom, a stop by the store was always helpful for her profession as a preschool teacher. She said she would stop by for the costumes, as well as decorations for her classroom. When Juergens first heard the store was closing, she said she felt heartbroken.
NEW YORK, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of financial markets for over 11,000 U.S. and global securities, today announced White Rock Minerals Limited (ASX: WRM;OTCQX: WRMCF), an Australian exploration and development company, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX Best Market. White Rock Minerals Limited upgraded to OTCQX from the Pink market.

White Rock Minerals Limited begins trading on OTCQX under the symbol "WRMCF." U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the company on www.otcmarkets.com.

Upgrading to the OTCQX Market is an important step for companies seeking to provide transparent trading for their U.S. investors. For companies listed on a qualified international exchange, streamlined market standards enable them to utilize their home market reporting to make their information available in the U.S. To qualify for OTCQX, companies must meet high financial standards, follow best practice corporate governance and demonstrate compliance with applicable securities laws.

"We are pleased to welcome White Rock Minerals Limited to the OTCQX Market," said Jason Paltrowitz, Executive Vice President of Corporate Services at OTC Markets Group. "Cross-trading in the U.S. on the OTCQX Market enables ASX-listed companies to grow liquidity in their home market by helping them to build visibility and provide transparent trading for their investors globally. As the number of Australian companies traded on the OTCQX Market continues to grow, we look forward to supporting these companies in the U.S. public markets."

White Rock Minerals' MD and CEO Matt Gill said: "This step to the OTCQX Market is a very important part of White Rock's strategy to raise awareness of the Company's high-grade silver - zinc - gold  lead VMS and gold IRGS project at Red Mountain in central Alaska, USA, of natural interest to many North American investors. The OTCQX Market for White Rock aims to provide current and potential North American investors with appropriate accessibility and liquidity to invest in our ASX-listed Company and its exciting activities both in Alaska and also in Australia."

MCAP LLC acted as the company's OTCQX sponsor.

About White Rock Minerals Limited

White Rock Minerals Ltd is an Australian exploration and development company whose activities are focused on gold, silver and copper exploration and development in eastern Australia and gold, silver, zinc, lead and copper exploration in Alaska, USA.

In Alaska, White Rock's 100% owned Red Mountain Project covers 798km2 of prospective high-grade silver-zinc VMS ground where there already exists a JORC Resource of 9Mt @ 157g/t silver, 5.8% zinc and 0.9g/t gold. This tenement package also hosts a recently discovered orogenic and/or IRGS-style gold anomaly called Last Chance, within the Tintina Gold Province, home to gold projects such as Pogo (10M ozs), Fort Knox (13.5M ozs) and Donlin (45M ozs).

In Australia, White Rock's 100% owned and advanced Mt Carrington project hosts gold and silver JORC Resources, a gold JORC Reserve, a recently updated Prefeasibility Study, and is on approved mining leases with existing infrastructure.

For further information about White rock, please visit www.whiterockminerals.com.au

About OTC Markets Group Inc.

OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM) operates the OTCQX Best Market, the OTCQB Venture Market and the Pink Open Market for 11,000 U.S. and global securities. Through OTC Link ATS and OTC Link ECN, we connect a diverse network of broker-dealers that provide liquidity and execution services. We enable investors to easily trade through the broker of their choice and empower companies to improve the quality of information available for investors.

To learn more about how we create better informed and more efficient markets, visit www.otcmarkets.com.

OTC Link ATS and OTC Link ECN are SEC regulated ATSs, operated by OTC Link LLC, member FINRA/SIPC.

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OTC Markets Group Inc., +1 (212) 896-4428, [email protected]

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People in Cork are being asked to limit their social interactions as the city and county work to curb the growing numbers of coronavirus cases.

The plea comes as Nphet meet this afternoon to decide which counties must join Dublin and Donegal in Level Three restrictions.

Yesterday, the HSE confirmed 60 cases of the virus in the county, making a total of 283 positive cases in the last seven days.

The HSE, Cork City Council and the Gardai have come together to implement emergency management structures, in an effort to reverse the surge in cases.

The Acting Director of Public Health South, Dr Anne Sheahan, has described three actions Corkonians can take to protect themselves and their loved ones from contracting the virus.

"See fewer people, I know that we want to live as normally as possible, but if we see fewer people now it gives us a greater chance of reigning this in," she said.

Be really scrupulous about keeping your two metres distance from anyone that you dont live with.

Dr Sheahan added that if you have any symptoms or are worried at all, to call your GP for advice.

The Mayor of County Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley, said the county must "hold firm".

"We can get through this together if we all do our part," she said.

Meanwhile the Lord Mayor, Cllr Joe Kavanagh said: "We can defeat this virus together if we pull together.

"Cork citys community spirit kept us all going during the difficult months earlier this year and I have no doubt we can get through this surge in numbers keeping the health and safety of our loved ones and our communities in mind.
As Australia's aged care sector continues to be scrutinised, researchers at the University of South Australia show that plain solutions are often the best, with a new study finding that aged care residents can improve their nutrition intake simply by increasing their meal sizes.

Assessing the effectiveness of environmental cues within an aged-care home - music, fragrance and other health information - researchers discovered that if residents were offered larger meals, they would eat more, thereby increasing energy and nutrition levels.

The study found that for each kilojoule increase in served energy there was a 0.73 kilojoule increase in consumed energy.

UniSA researcher Hei Tong Lau, says that the portion size effect was a manipulation to test the true effects of extrinsic food-cues.

"Our research is focussed on improving the nutrition and health status of older Australians living in a residential aged care facility," Lau says.

"In Australia, up to 70 per cent of elderly people living in aged care facilities are suffering from malnutrition, the primary reason for which is inadequate food intake.

"To improve this, we must find ways to encourage older people to eat more. And while there has been a justified focus on the food itself - including look, taste and texture - we have been concentrating on other factors that can improve the food experience, within a real-world aged care facility.

"While exploring environmental factors that could improve the dining atmosphere, we found that portion size was highly correlated with the amount of food that residents consumed.

"And, that both music and fragrance could positively influence food consumption, but secondary to portion size, as we did see variances among each individual."

According to the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission (ACQSC) and under the Aged Care Quality Standards (effective 2019), aged care service providers in Australia are required to ensure appropriate nutrition and energy intake for all residents.

The study examined the presence of the portion size effect - the act of eating more food when served a more significant portion - in an Adelaide-based residential care facility. Over a seven-week period, the food intake of 31 residents was recorded once a week, both under a control and a cue-enhanced setting.

Lau says the findings provide valuable insights for aged care caterers and providers.

"With an ageing population and high levels of malnutrition among aged care residents, there is a clear need to better understand factors that can influence residents' food intake," Lau says.

"Increasing serving sizes may seem like a small step, but for residents who need the nutrition, it's massive move forward."

###

Notes for editors:

* Published paper can be accessed here: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1441358220300768?via%3Dihub

* 1 October 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the UN International Day of Older Persons.

Media contact: Annabel Mansfield T: +61 8 8302 0351 M: +61 417 717 504

E: Annabel.Mansfield@unisa.edu.au

Researcher: Ms Hei Tong Lau E: HeiTong.Lau@unisa.edu.au and heitong.lau@marketingscience.info
DUBLIN, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Precast Concrete Market Research Report by Element, by End Use - Global Forecast to 2025 - Cumulative Impact of COVID-19" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The Global Precast Concrete Market is expected to grow from USD 94,730.76 Million in 2019 to USD 134,368.19 Million by the end of 2025 at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.99%.

This research report categorizes the Precast Concrete to forecast the revenues and analyze the trends in each of the following sub-markets:

On the basis of Element, the Precast Concrete Market is examined across Columns & Beams, Floors & Roofs, Girders, Paving Slabs, Pipes, Utility Vaults, and Walls & Barriers. The Floors & Roofs further studied across G1 to G5, G20 & Above, and G6 to G19.

On the basis of Construction Type, the Precast Concrete Market is examined across Asymmetric Slimflor beam, Composite Downstand Beam, Composite Slim-Floor Beams, Delta Floor Beam , ITECH Floor Beam, Slim-floor Beam, and Ultra-Shallow Floor Beams.

, ITECH Floor Beam, Slim-floor Beam, and Ultra-Shallow Floor Beams. On the basis of End Use, the Precast Concrete Market is examined across Non-Residential and Residential. The Non-Residential further studied across Hospitals, Schools, and Shopping Malls.

On the basis of Geography, the Precast Concrete Market is examined across Americas, Asia-Pacific , and Europe , Middle East & Africa . The Americas region is examined across Argentina , Brazil , Canada , Mexico , and United States . The Asia-Pacific region is examined across Australia , China , India , Indonesia , Japan , Malaysia , Philippines , South Korea , and Thailand . The Europe , Middle East & Africa region is examined across France , Germany , Italy , Netherlands , Qatar , Russia , Saudi Arabia , South Africa , Spain , United Arab Emirates , and United Kingdom .

The FPNV Positioning Matrix evaluates and categorizes the vendors in the Precast Concrete Market on the basis of Business Strategy (Business Growth, Industry Coverage, Financial Viability, and Channel Support) and Product Satisfaction (Value for Money, Ease of Use, Product Features, and Customer Support) that aids businesses in better decision making and understanding the competitive landscape.



The Competitive Strategic Window analyses the competitive landscape in terms of markets, applications, and geographies. The Competitive Strategic Window helps the vendor define an alignment or fit between their capabilities and opportunities for future growth prospects. During a forecast period, it defines the optimal or favorable fit for the vendors to adopt successive merger and acquisition strategies, geography expansion, research & development, and new product introduction strategies to execute further business expansion and growth.



Cumulative Impact of COVID-19:



COVID-19 is an incomparable global public health emergency that has affected almost every industry, so for and, the long-term effects projected to impact the industry growth during the forecast period. Our ongoing research amplifies our research framework to ensure the inclusion of underlaying COVID-19 issues and potential paths forward. The report is delivering insights on COVID-19 considering the changes in consumer behavior and demand, purchasing patterns, re-routing of the supply chain, dynamics of current market forces, and the significant interventions of governments. The updated study provides insights, analysis, estimations, and forecast, considering the COVID-19 impact on the market.



The report provides insights on the following pointers:



1. Market Penetration: Provides comprehensive information offered by the key players

2. Market Development: Provides in-depth information about lucrative emerging markets and analyzes the markets

3. Market Diversification: Provides detailed information about new product launches, untapped geographies, recent developments, and investments

4. Competitive Assessment & Intelligence: Provides an exhaustive assessment of market shares, strategies, products, and manufacturing capabilities of the leading players

5. Product Development & Innovation: Provides intelligent insights on future technologies, R&D activities, and new product developments



The report answers questions such as:



1. What is the market size and forecast of the Global Precast Concrete Market?

2. What are the inhibiting factors and impact of COVID-19 shaping the Global Precast Concrete Market during the forecast period?

3. Which are the products/segments/applications/areas to invest in over the forecast period in the Global Precast Concrete Market?

4. What is the competitive strategic window for opportunities in the Global Precast Concrete Market?

5. What are the technology trends and regulatory frameworks in the Global Precast Concrete Market?

6. What are the modes and strategic moves considered suitable for entering the Global Precast Concrete Market?



Companies Mentioned



Actividades De Construccion Y Servicios, S.A.

Atco Group

Balfour Beatty PLC

Bouygues Construction

Cemex S.A.B. De C.V.

CRH PLC

Julius Berger Nigeria PLC

Kiewit Corporation

Laing O'rourke

Larsen & Toubro Limited

Red Sea Housing Services

Skanska Ab

Taisei Corporation

Vinci

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/9zk4e7



About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Research and Markets also offers Custom Research services providing focused, comprehensive and tailored research.

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HALF MOON BAY, Calif., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Institute offers FREE Virtual Tool Kit to educators, non-profits, and students alike. This Tool Kit offers supplemental resources with 100 inspiring true stories, lesson plans, videos and activities based on the, Pan Y Vino Para El Camino as a FREE download in Spanish and English. For educators, the Virtual Tool Kit offers lesson plans for multicultural literacy, critical thinking skills, social studies, service learning, citizenship, leadership development skills, and character education. Piloted by the YMCA of the USA, the Educational Curriculum has been used in 120 communities around the world.

www.stonesoupleadership.org Edward James Olmos

WHY THIS MATTERS: Studies show that Latino youth are struggling with the virtual learning during the pandemic. Teachers are struggling to provide inspiring resources to their students. Since many schools in Puerto Rico were closed after Hurricane Maria, families struggle to adapt to an increased role in their child's education. All these challenges can be overwhelming to young people who want a better life. As the new school year begins, we want to give them a little hope  and encourage them to dream, stay in school and work towards a better future for themselves and their families.

Actor and activist Edward James Olmos asked The Stone Soup Leadership Institute to get the Best-Selling book Stone Soup for the World: Life-Changing Stories of Everyday Heroes into Spanish. In the book's introduction he writes, "The stories in Pan Y Vino Para El Camino are a testament to the Latino tradition of giving back. One of the most important gifts we can give our children is to read stories about those who went before them." We launched the book at the first Latino Book Festival in Los Angeles, where he received the Institute's first Cesar Chavez Award.

The Institute conducted a 4-year bilingual demonstration project on the island of Vieques, Puerto Rico. Using the Institute's Spanish Educational Curriculum, Pan Y Vino Para El Camino, we trained young and emerging leaders to become leaders of a new Vieques.

VIDEO: Edward James Olmos shared a message of hope to the Vieques youth at the Institute's first Youth Leadership Summit in 2004.

ABOUT THE STONE SOUP LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE

The Stone Soup Leadership Institute's book and educational curriculum Stone Soup for the World: Life-Changing Stories of Everyday Heroes gives life to the Stone Soup fable. Over 120 communities use them to inspire and educate young people to become leaders in their lives, communities and our world. Founded in 1997, the Institute is a 501c3 nonprofit organization.

Visit The Stone Soup Leadership Institute at www.stonesoupleadership.org.

Media Contact:

Sarah Wilson

518-637-4326

[email protected]

SOURCE Stone Soup Leadership Institute
The Boeing Co. manufacturing facility stands in North Charleston, South Carolina, U.S., on Monday, May 4, 2020. Boeing is restarting its 787 operations at the plant for the first time since April 8, including all operations that were suspended because of the Covid-19 pandemic, ABC News reported.

Boeing on Thursday said it plans to consolidate its 787 Dreamliner production at its South Carolina facility next year, a bid to lower costs amid weak demand, marking a blow for its Seattle-area production hub.

Boeing in July said it would evaluate consolidating production lines for the widebody jets, which it currently has in both Everett, Washington, where it first started producing the planes in 2007, and North Charleston, South Carolina, a plant where the workforce isn't unionized.

At that time, Boeing said it would further cut already-reduced production plans for the 787, a plane used often on international routes, which have been more affected than domestic ones during the coronavirus pandemic. It will make six 787 planes per month next year, down from 10.

"To ensure we can be effective in a market that will be smaller in the near-term, and one that will have different demands from our customers long-term, we made a decision earlier this morning to consolidate 787 production in South Carolina after months of detailed and thorough study," Stan Deal, CEO of Boeing's commercial airplane unit, wrote in an employee memo.

Boeing said mid-2021 was its "best estimate" for the start of the production consolidation in South Carolina. The company noted that only the North Charleston facility is set up to produce the 787-10, the largest model in the Dreamliner family.

After the announcement, which was expected, Boeing's stock slipped from the day's highs and was up less than 1% in afternoon trading.

Boeing announced the second production line for the 787 nearly 11 years ago, and consolidating production there is the latest pain for Boeing's workers and the economy around its Seattle-area production facilities. Boeing employs about 7,000 people in South Carolina and close to 70,000 in Washington state, according to its most recent counts.

"Boeing's decision to pull its 787 production out of Washington state is shortsighted and misplaced," Rep. Rick Larsen, D-Wash., chairman of a House subcommittee on aviation and whose district includes Boeing's Everett plant, said in a statement on Wednesday. "As the economy comes back and air travel returns, I will fight to bring 787 production back to Everett."

The dismal aircraft market on top of the aftermath of two fatal crashes of its bestselling 737 Max prompted a wave of cost-cutting. Boeing earlier this year said it planned to reduce its 160,000-person workforce by 10%, warning this summer that further cuts are possible.

The Max, Boeing 767, 777 and 747 jets are made in the Puget Sound area of Washington state.

Boeing also plans to stop making the iconic 747 jetliner, which is also produced in Everett, in 2022.
The Soviets used an Indian newspaper in 1983 to spread disinformation that the AIDS virus had been invented by the US military as a biological weapon to kill black and gay men" and this echoed for decades. Theres greater sophistication today, says a new book on the threat to democracy and personal liberty from fake news generated by Advanced AI technology, with Russia fine-tuning the concept in this age of the Infocalypse, which the author defines as the increasingly dangerous and untrustworthy ecosystem within which most humans now live".

Before we get to the Russian disinformation of the Infocalypse, lets look at one of the old Soviet campaigns, usually referred to as Operation Infektion," Nina Schick writes in Deep Fakes and the Infocalpyse - What You Urgently Need To Know" (Hachette/Monoray).

In July 1983, article entitled AIDS may invade India: Mystery disease caused by US experiments appeared in The Patriot, an obscure publication printed in New Delhi. This piece made a bombshell accusation: the deadly AIDS virus had been invented by the military as a biological weapon to kill black and gay men," writes Schick, a broadcaster and author who specialises on how technology and AI are reshaping politics.

The story cited a letter from an anonymous but well-known American scientist and anthropologist to support its explosive claims" that Fort Detrick, a US military base in Maryland, was at the centre of the allegations," writes Schick, who has worked on foreign interference in the 2016 and 2020 US elections and on the evolution of mis- and disinformation.

During the 1940s, Fort Detrick was home to the Pentagons super-secretive biological weapons programme and a type of anthrax bomb was invented there during WW II but never went into production as the conflict ended. It was also involved in a project to spread yellow fever through infected mosquitoes but the US biological warfare programme began to decline in the 1960s as President Richard Nixon denounced the use of such weapons. By the 1970s, Fort Detricks remit had been radically scaled back to focus on defence against biological weapons rather than their production, the book says.

The Patriot reported otherwise, claiming that US government scientists had scoured Africa and Latin America in secret missions to identify highly infectious pathogens, eventually leading to the creation of AIDS at Fort Detrick. The accusation of biological warfare was a trope that the Soviets used repeatedly against the Americans in the Cold war," Schick writes.

In 1983, when the Soviets planted a seed of disinformation in a Soviet-sponsored Indian newspaper", it was before the birth of our modern information ecosystem, so this outrageous lie would have to be carefully cultivated to achieve virality. It took six years, but the Soviets managed to make it go global," the author says.

The myth went quiet for a few years but the Soviets continued to accuse the US of pursuing an offensive biological-weapons warfare programme in violation of international laws". In 1985, a Radio Moscow broadcast claimed that the CIA was spreading dengue fever in Cuba and helping South Africa develop a biological weapon against its black population, the book says.

Suddenly, in 1985, the AIDS claim resurfaced in the influential Soviet weekly Literaturnaya Gazetta. In an article headlined Panic in the West, or What is hidden behind the sensation about AIDS? the journalist Velentin Zapevalov repeated the AIDS conspiracy claim, citing the well-respected Indian paper The Patriot. He obviously neglected to reveal that the story had been planted there by the Soviets," Schick writes.

The next year, a scientific report entitled AIDS: Its Nature and Origin by Professor Jacob Segal emerged, supporting the claim that AIDS was man-made. Closer examination revealed that Dr. Segal was a retired 76-year-old East German biophysicist. The co-author was his wife, Dr. Lilli Segal, also retired, an epidemiologist, and also East German.

As the AIDS epidemic worsened, the Soviets stepped up the campaign, the book says. Through 1986, a flurry of articles surfaced in the Soviet press repeating that the AIDS virus was created in a Pentagon laboratory. These reports were relayed globally by Soviet news agencies TASS and RIA Novosti, which together had over a hundred bureaus worldwide.

The Soviets paid, tricked or otherwise incentivized local publications in the developing world to reprint the story," Schick writes.

By 1986, the story had started to go viral and appeared in dozens of sympathetic as well as unsuspecting newspapers around the globe. This included the West", where it was printed on the front page of the Sunday Express along with an interview with Jacob Segal.

Segals claims were soon debunked in Britain by conflicting reports in The Times and The Sunday Telegraph. Nevertheless, the operation was a great success: by the end of the decade, the story had appeared in major newspapers in more than 80 countries. It was particularly virulent in Asia and Africa, where the lie received prominent play. The US image was tarnished around the world," the book says, adding that its legacy is doing great harm" and even affected Barack Obama.

It emerged that Obamas former pastor, the Reverend Jeremiah Wright, had claimed that the HIV virus was created by the US government as a tool of genocide against Black Americans and Obama was forced to publicly disown him.

A seed planted by the Soviets in India in 1983 had come back to haunt the man who would become the first African-American President 25 years later. If the one lie at the heart of Operation Infektion lives on 40 years later, imagine the havoc that disinformation can wreck in the Infocayplse. Or what it could do when it is accompanied by deepfakes," Schick writes.

Whats the lesson in this for the world at large?

Contending that the Infocalypse is evolving into an even more potent phenomenon with dangerous implications for everything from geopolitics to our individual lives," Schick notes that while it had enabled Russia to forge way ahead of the pack in the disinformation game, China has been a quick learner and had been joined by other emerging actors like Iran, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and North Korea. Oxford University researchers had found evidence of 28 countries practicing some form of online disinformation operations in 2017".

In 2020, this number has risen to 70. While all these state actors pose serious threats in the Infocalypse, for now there are orders of magnitude between the sophistication of the Kremlins efforts and those of the others. In one study from 2019, researchers from Princeton found that Russia was responsible for 72 per cent of all foreign disinformation operations between 2013 and 2019. This makes it almost three times as aggressive as all the others".

If Russia is a maestro playing a Tchaikovsky sonata from memory on a grand piano, then the others are playing Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star on a childs keyboard," Schick writes.

But then, all is not lost, as the tiny Baltic nation of Estonia, with a population of 1.3 million, proved. It had gained its independence from Russia in 1991 but faced three weeks of vicious cyber attacks against its government, media and banking infrastructure following its decision in 2007 to relocate the Bronze Soldiers of Talinn, a memorial to the occupying Soviet soldiers killed in the Second World War.

Instead of crumbling, Talinn used the lesson to reinforce its defences and fight back. It did this by taking a society-wide approach that engaged all its citizens" to become one of the most digital nations in the world: 99 per cent of public services are online, nearly one-third of its citizens vote online and it has not suffered a further Russian breach of its defences", Schick writes.

The forces to fight the Infocalypse are already coming together and growing in strength. They are helping us understand the threat, and they have also started building the solutions and alliances to help safeguard us all. But they need our support. We can help by sharing this understanding, preparing our defences and fighting back. Time is of the essence

Be careful about what information you share. Verify your sources. Correct yourself when you get something wrong. Be wary of your own political biases. Be sceptical but not cynicalIts time for all allies to unite. As the Estonians did to the Russians, we still have the chance to say no to the Infocalypse," Schick concludes.
Exxon has made the final investment decision on the Payara offshore field in Guyana, the company said this week, adding that it expected Payara to yield up to 220,000 bpd of crude when commercial production begins in 2024.

This would be the third offshore development project of the supermajor in Guyana, which rose to fame thanks to a string of discoveries in the Stabroek block made by Exxon and its partner Hess Corp. So far, the discovered recoverable resources in the block have been estimated at more than 8 billion barrels of oil equivalent.

The partners have made 18 discoveries, with a combined potential for producing up to 750,000 bpd of crude. Liza Phase 1, the first discovery, is already producing, and Liza Phase 2 should start producing in 2022, Exxon said, at a rate of 220,000 bpd. Payara will be the third development to begin production. The 750,000-bpd target for the whole block should be reached in 2025, according to plans.

Such a rate of production would turn the tiny Latin American nation sandwiched between Venezuela and Suriname into quite a large player on the international oil market. However, given the current price environment, the demand patterns, and the chances of this environment becoming chronic, these production goals may not be hit when planned.

Projections for oil demand continue to be pessimistic as the pandemic rages on. All the major forecasters in energythe International Energy Agency, the Energy Information Administration, and OPECall revised down their forecasts for oil demand from earlier expectations recently.

BP also weighed in, warning that oil demand growth was in its death throes. Investment banks have differing opinions, with some such as Morgan Stanley noting the fragility of demand recovery and others such as Goldman Sachs, offering a rather more upbeat view of the future of demand and oil pricesthe two factors that would determine the viability of Exxons Guyana projects.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Marie Claire Paris, the exclusive French lifestyle brand that forayed into the Indian beauty and wellness sector with the launch of its Salons and Salon & Wellness centers in Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, Chennai, New Delhi and Vadodara now launches its third franchised Salon & Wellness outlet in Bengaluru at the New Bel road.

The Salon Wellness, which is Marie Claire Paris third outlet in Bengaluru, is brought to the country by B2C Network LLP - the exclusive Licensee for Marie Claire Paris Salon, Salon & Wellness, Just Nails and IIWA (Beauty Academy).

Celebrating the launch by adding a bit of glitz and glamour with the New Bel road Franchisee  Mr. Mohan Kumar, Marie Claires Bengaluru Master Franchisee Mr. P. S. Sriram, B2C Networks Director & Spokesperson Ms. Vandana Bhardwaj and the Chief guest for the evening Ms. Kenishaa Francis (Founder of WAAMH - Mental health Bureau), along with other guests were offered unique experiential at the Salon & Wellness that left them relaxed and pampered at the end of the evening.

Speaking on the occasion of the launch, Ms. Vandana Bhardwaj, the Director and Spokesperson of B2C Network LLP said, We have got a phenomenal response in India since our launch in 2018, our efforts for bringing the Global trend styles, unique services and rigorous staff training has paid off. We are extremely happy with the loyal customer base that Marie Claire salons have and we are sure our New Bel road (Bengaluru) Franchise shall also be a grand success.

Mr. P. S. Sriram, the Master franchise owner of Marie Claire Paris Salons in Bengaluru, said,We are very pleased with the high street location of this branch as it is extremely strategic for our business. Even before the launch, we have many bookings and enquiries from retail customers. We also have a strong pipeline of enquiries for investment in Marie Claire Salon & wellness franchise in Bengaluru and are poised to open multiple outlets before the end of this Financial year

Ms. Kenishaa Francis (Founder of WAAMH - Mental health Bureau), Its a beautiful Salon with French interiors, the staff is extremely well trained & well behaved. I would love to revisit Marie Claire Paris Salon & Wellness along with my friends and family to enjoy professional services with International products

B2C Network intends to open hundreds of Marie Claire Salon & Wellness centers in India via franchising, as well as over 30 vocational training academies in the next 5 years. Its objective is to provide the best quality services where clients feel homely and to train cum employ skilled manpower through IIWA Academy.

B2C Network LLP is the exclusive Franchisor for Marie Claire Paris Salon, Salon & Wellness, Just Nails and IIWA (International Institute of Wellness and Aesthetics). The Founders & Directors of B2C Network LLP are in the business of Salon / Wellness / Vocational Academy since last 18 years. B2C Network has a crystal-clear strategy on building salons and wellness academies with international accreditation in India. B2C Network LLP had launched its first Marie Claire Paris Salon & Wellness outlet in India (Bangalore) on the 28th of August, 2018.

Marie Claire, an international monthly magazine was first published in France in 1937. Marie Claire magazine focuses on women around the world and global issues and also covers health, beauty, and fashion topics. With an immense popularity of the magazine, Marie Claire has become a leading brand covering a wide range of other verticals like clothing, cosmetics, watches, sunglasses, bags, shoes, accessories and much more in the field of fashion and beauty across many countries. The brand Marie Claire stands for fashion, balance, creativity, well-being and expertise.

Disclaimer: This content is distributed by Digpu News Network. No HT journalist is involved in creation of this content.

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Banjul, Gambia (PANA)  The New British High Commissioner to The Gambia, David Belgrove, has commended President Adama Barrow on the progress made on the democratic reforms, saying he would like to build upon the long history of friendship between The Gambia and the UK.

Belgrove was speaking on Wednesday when he presented his Letters of Credence at the State House in Banjul.

Belgrove said: I congratulated the President on the democratic reforms The Gambia had made to date and how we wish to be at work with The Gambia as friends and build on those reforms. In addition, we want to continue and build on the work on a good number of areas, including democracy, Human Rights, security sector reform, health, education, all of those things we want to continue to build on.

Belgrove also revealed that he wants to help the Gambian government with the economic recovery after COVID-19, as well as attract more investment from the UK into The Gambia.

In the area of defense, he expressed UKs optimism to do more on training, mentoring and building the capacity of The Gambia Armed Forces.

Belgrove, until his posting to The Gambia, was the British High Commissioner to Liberia, and has served the Foreign Office in different capacities around the world.

Responding, President Barrow said both The Gambia and the UK benefitted from the historic ties between the two countries.

He also said that he values and respects the independence of institutions such as the judiciary and the National Assembly, stressing that he believes in democracy and wants the rejected draft Constitutional to be part of his legacy and will continue to engage his Cabinet and other stakeholders on the way forward.

-0- PANA MSS/VAO 30Sept2020
ATLANTA  Former President Jimmy Carter marks his 96th birthday Thursday, the latest milestone for the longest-lived of the 44 men to hold the highest American office.

Carter planned to celebrate at his home in Plains, Georgia, with his wife of 74 years, Rosalynn Carter, according to a spokeswoman for the Carter Center in Atlanta.

The 39th president, in office from 1977-81, has largely receded from public view amid the coronavirus pandemic and his own health challenges due to a series of falls in 2019. He previously survived a dire cancer diagnosis in 2015. Yet Carter remains a quiet force in politics at home and, through his post-presidential Center, in public health and human rights advocacy around the world.

Carter on Tuesday endorsed his fellow Democrat, the Rev. Raphael Warnock, in one of two competitive Georgia U.S. Senate races this fall. Carters announcement aligned him with another former president, Barack Obama, and other party power brokers in backing Warnock over Democrat Matt Lieberman, whose father was the partys 2000 nominee for vice president.

Though Carter remained neutral in Democrats 2020 presidential primary he fielded calls and visits from multiple candidates. Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter, now 93, recorded audio addresses for Democrats virtual national convention urging the election of nominee Joe Biden, who was a young senator from Delaware when Jimmy Carter won the presidency in 1976.

Joe Biden was my first and most effective supporter in the Senate, Carter told the convention. For decades, hes been my loyal and dedicated friend.

Carter also gained new attention recently upon death of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Carter is the only president since 1850 not to make a single Supreme Court nomination, but he reshaped the lower courts with a record number of nominations of women and non-white jurists, Ginsburg being the most notable.

In 1980, Carter tapped Ginsburg, then the nations most accomplished civil rights attorney, for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, considered the nations second highest court. She was the second woman Carter nominated for the D.C. Circuit, setting her up for a promotion to Supreme Court 13 years later.

He looked around at the federal judiciary and he said, You all look like me, but thats not how the great United States looks, Ginsburg said to a Fordham University Law School forum in 2016.

Perhaps most notable among Carters 2020 election maneuvering is the Carter Center for the first time designating the United States as a backsliding democracy. The Center announced after the Democratic convention that it would devote resources to ensuring free and fair U.S. elections this fall. The Carters founded the Center in 1982, two years after he lost his re-election bid to Republican Ronald Reagan.

The Center has monitored more than 110 elections in 39 countries since 1989, but it was a striking development for the institution to turn its focus to Carters home country, the worlds leading democratic superpower since World War II. The development comes as President Donald Trump repeatedly casts doubt on the integrity of the U.S. voting system, regularly firing off a cascade of mistruths about the voting process and asserting that the system is rigged against him.

As recently as a Tuesday night debate against Biden, Trump refused to say hed accept the results and said hed urged his supporters to go into the polls and watch very carefully, because thats what has to happen.

Explaining the decision to monitor a U.S. election, a Carter Center statement said backsliding democracies are often characterized by polarization, a lack of public trust, ethnic or racial divisions and injustice, and fears that election results wont be seen as credible or could trigger violence.

Carter has not recently addressed Trumps statements directly and, according to a spokeswoman, is not granting interviews ahead of the election. But Carter said last September during his last annual town hall at the Carter Center that it would be a disaster to have four more years of Trump.

Siding with Biden over Trump isnt surprising for a Democratic former president, but it does involve Carter ignoring one of his own recent observations about the presidency. Weeks before his 95th birthday last year, Carter alluded to the advanced ages of several candidates at the time. Trump, 74, would be the oldest president ever inaugurated for a second term. Biden, 77, would the oldest sitting president in history, reaching 82 near the end of a prospective first term.

I hope theres an age limit, Carter said jovially at his town hall when asked whether hed run again. Then he turned more serious: If I were just 80 years old, if I was 15 years younger, I dont believe I could undertake the duties I experienced when I was president.
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi on Thursday (October 1) announced that the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Advanced 2020 will be declared on October 5 on the official website of JEE Advanced i.e. jeeadv.nic.in.

According to IIT-Delhi, the candidates who appeared for the entrance examination can check their results by entering their credentials once the result it is updated on the website.

Here's how to check JEE Advanced 2020 result online:

Step 1: Visit the official website of JEE Advanced i.e. jeeadv.nic.in

Step 2: On the homepage, click on the JEE Advanced Result 2020 link

Step 3: You will be redirected to a new page

Step 4: Enter your credentials on the webpage and click on Submit

Step 5: Your JEE Advanced Result 2020 will be displayed on the screen

Step 6: Download and take a printout of the result for future reference

A total of 1.6 lakh candidates registered for the JEE Advanced 2020 exam in 2020 after successfully clearing the JEE Main 2020. Notably, 96 percent of students out of these candidates appeared for the examinations. It may be recalled that IIT Delhi had conducted the JEE Advanced 2020 on September 27 across the country.

The students who will clear Advanced can seek admissions to IITs, including institutes- Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore (IISc), Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs), Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Petroleum Technology (RGIPT), Indian Institute of Petroleum & Energy, Visakhapatnam.
Southern Baptists call white supremacy scheme of the devil after Trumps stand back and stand by comment

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Senior officers of the Southern Baptist Convention reaffirmed the denominations repudiation of white supremacy as a scheme of the devil Wednesday after a controversial call by President Donald Trump to far-right activists to stand back and stand by during the presidential debate on Tuesday.

When asked to condemn white supremacy, every single one of us should be ready to do so. Racism is, sadly, not extinct, and we know from our Southern Baptist history the effects of the horrific sins of racism and hatred, SBC President J.D. Greear said on Twitter Wednesday afternoon.

We denounce and repudiate white supremacy and every form of racial and ethnic hatred as a scheme of the devil intended to bring suffering and division to our society. We re-affirm what Southern Baptists said to this in 2017.

I plead with White Evangelical leaders to make it clear today(even if you plan to vote for President Trump), please make it clear that you denounce White Supremacy & your support for Trump in no wise connected to his unwillingness to denounce White Supremacy. Please, my brethren! https://t.co/TaplsbhIOc  Dwight McKissic (@pastordmack) September 30, 2020

In addition to Greear, the statement was also endorsed by SBC senior officers: Marshal Ausberry, first vice president and president of the National African American Fellowship of the SBC; Noe Garcia, second vice president; Ronnie Floyd, president of the SBCs executive committee; John Yeats, executive director of the Missouri Baptist Convention; and Alabama Baptist Kathy Litton, director of planter spouse development at the North American Mission Board.

The SBC statement came as prominent black Christian leaders reacted strongly to the presidents failure to clearly denounce the activists during his first presidential debate with Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden, and urged evangelicals to speak up.

During Tuesday's debate, moderator and "Fox News Sunday" anchor Chris Wallace asked Trump if he was "willing tonight to condemn white supremacists and militia groups and to say that they need to stand down and not add to the violence in a number of these cities as we saw in Kenosha and we've seen in Portland?"

Trump said "sure" he was "willing to do that," but noted that "almost everything I see is from the left-wing."

Biden then mentioned the Proud Boys, a far-right group led by Enrique Tarrio who's half black and half Cuban, while Wallace said white supremacists.

"The Proud Boys," Trump replied. "Stand back and stand by. But I'll tell you what, I'll tell you what, somebody's got to do something about Antifa and the left because this is not a right-wing problem."

E. Dewey Smith Jr., senior pastor of The House of Hope Atlanta (Greater Travelers Rest) church in Decatur, Georgia, was one of the first prominent black Christian leaders to react when he pleaded with evangelicals on Twitter Tuesday night to say something.

To my white evangelical family..... what do you think about Trumps ABSOLUTE REFUSAL to denounce white supremacy???!!! PLEASE Say Something!! he wrote.

Hours later, on Wednesday morning, prominent black SBC Pastor Dwight McKissic echoed Smiths call.

I plead with White Evangelical leaders to make it clear today(even if you plan to vote for President Trump), please make it clear that you denounce White Supremacy & your support for Trump in no wise connected to his unwillingness to denounce White Supremacy. Please, my brethren! he wrote.

Kyle Howard, a preacher, theologian and Christian counselor, noted on Twitter: Yall have absolutely no idea what it feels like to watch your president tell white supremacists to stand back & stand by. Yall have no idea how terrifying that is, especially in this time.

The Rev. Mika Edmondson, planting and lead pastor of Christ Presbyterian Church in greater Nashville, said the presidents failure to clearly denounce white supremacy during the debate made his family less safe.

However you feel about the President, his policies, and his intentions, his staunch refusal to clearly denounce white supremacy is deeply disturbing. His words last night made my family and many others less safe today, he noted on Twitter.

In his analysis of the debate, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary President Al Mohler called the presidents response to the question on white supremacy his lowest moment during the debate and said it was a failed opportunity.

The lowest moment for the incumbent president, Donald Trump, was when he did not give a clear answer when it came to the threat from the political right, from white supremacists and others in the United States. When called to condemn them, the President didn't exactly not answer the question, but he did answer the question in such a way that it was not very specific or comprehensive. I would score that as a failed opportunity, Mohler noted on his podcast, The Briefing.

In his first comment on the debate Wednesday, Trump said he did not know anything about the Proud Boys.

Trump has denounced the Ku Klux Klan, neo-Nazis and white supremacists on several previous occasions, including in 2017, after a self-identified white supremacist drove his car into counter-protesters, killing one and injuring others, at a Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Virginia.
NEWTOWN TOWNSHIP >> Newtown Township will be applying for federal funding to bolster its career firefighting force. And its crossing its fingers and hoping the third times a charm. At its Jan. 12 meeting, the board of supervisors voted unanimously to resubmit its SAFER (Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response) grant application to the Federal Emergency Management Agency to...
The Working Group Consists of Over 35 Academics, Researchers, and Policy Specialists From Four Countries

VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / Havn Life Sciences Inc. (CSE:HAVN) (FSE:5NP) (the "Company" or "Havn Life"), a biotechnology company focused on unlocking human potential using evidence-informed research, and developing standardized psychoactive compounds derived from plants and fungi, is pleased to announce that it has joined the Drug Science Medical Psychedelics Working Group consortium.

The working group was launched by Drug Science, the UK's leading independent scientific body on drugs that provides an evidence base that is free from political or commercial influence, which creates a foundation for sensible and effective drug laws by delivering, reviewing, and investigating scientific evidence relating to psychoactive drugs.

"Havn Life is thrilled to be supporting Drug Science's research on psychedelics," said Dr. Ivan Casselman (Ph.D., FLS), Havn Life's Chief Psychedelic Officer. "We are committed to advancing research in psychedelics, as well as collaborating with organizations and academic institutions around the world to tap into world-class, quality research. The development of sensible drug policy reform is a mission that both the working groups and Havn Life are highly aligned with."

The Drug Science team includes:

Founder Prof. David Nutt, who serves as Chair of the Scientific Committee, and is also the Edmond J. Safra Professor of Neuropsychopharmacology at Imperial College London.

Colonel Rakesh Jetly, whose role in the Canadian military has included time as senior psychiatrist and mental health clinical advisor to the CF Surgeon General and who has published numerous articles in professional journals and presents nationally and internationally on such topics as post-traumatic stress disorder and operational psychiatry

Prof. Joanna Neil, who has served as the Professor of Psychopharmacology in the Manchester Pharmacy School at the University of Manchester since January 2013 and who has authored over 70 peer-reviewed publications in top scientific journals. Neil has been conducting research in psychopharmacology for almost 30 years, specifically in the area of development of preclinical models of psychiatric disorders.

A consortium of Drug Science experts, industry partners, patient representatives, and policymakers, the group aims to break the barriers of 50 years of medical censorship by creating a rational and enlightened approach to psychedelic research and clinical treatment.

On Behalf of The Board of Directors

Susan Chapelle & Tim Moore

Co-CEOs

About Havn Life Sciences Inc.

Havn Life Sciences is a biotechnology company on a mission to unlock human potential using evidence-informed research. The Company is focused on standardized, quality-controlled extraction of psychoactive compounds from plants and fungi, and the development of natural health care products from non-regulated compounds. Learn more at havnlife.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

CONTACT:

Investor Relations: ir@havnlife.com 604 687 7130

Media: brittany@exvera.com 778 238 6096

Forward-Looking Information: This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws relating to statements regarding the Company's business, products, and future of the Company's business. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information 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 information. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results, performance, and developments to differ materially from those contemplated by these statements depending on, among other things, the risks that the Company's products and plan will vary from those stated in this news release and the Company may not be able to carry out its business plans as expected. Except as required by law, the Company expressly disclaims any obligation and does not intend to update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information in this news release. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. The statements in this news release are made as of the date of this release.

The CSE has not reviewed, approved, or disapproved the content of this press release

SOURCE: Havn Life Sciences Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/608594/Havn-Life-joins-UK-Psychedelics-Working-Group-with-Leading-International-Scientists
Democrat Joe Biden came into the first debate ahead of President Donald Trump in the national polls. If voter reactions to the first debate are any indication, Biden is likely to keep a hold on the lead after the face-off, too.

Here's what some of the national polling trackers said Thursday morning:

The NBC News national polling average had Biden up 7.9 points over Trump. That figure is based on an unweighted average of the 10 most recent reliable public opinion polls.

The RealClearPolitics general election polling average showed Biden with a 6.6-point lead over Trump.

FiveThirtyEight's national polling tracker gave Biden a 7.6-point advantage.

Three polls asking who won Tuesday night's debate show Biden coming out on top  though respondents, along with most commentators and even the moderator himself, gave dismal reviews to the contest itself, which appears to have changed few minds.

A CNBC/Change Research poll conducted Tuesday night and Wednesday found 53% of likely voters nationwide said Biden did a better job in the debate, compared with 29% for Trump. The poll also found 45% of those surveyed saying Trump performed worse than expectations, while 11% said the same for Biden.

But just 2% of respondents said the debate changed their vote, versus 98% who said it didn't.

The venomous first showing, marked by incessant interruptions and personal attacks by the candidates, and exasperation from the moderator, was panned by critics and viewers alike. CNBC/Change Research, for instance, found 77% of voters saying the debate did not make them feel proud to be an American.

"I'm just sad with the way last night turned out," the moderator, Fox News' Chris Wallace, told The New York Times on Wednesday.

Still, a 55%-28% majority of respondents in the CNBC/Change Research poll said there should be more debates this year. Two more presidential debates are on the schedule, with the next one set for Oct. 15 in Miami. The Commission on Presidential Debates said it will make changes to the rules in light of Tuesday's display.

Another poll from CBS News' battleground tracker gave Biden the edge in the debate, 48%-41%, while 10% said it was a tie. A large majority of respondents in that poll, 69%, said they felt annoyed watching the debate. That poll had a margin of error of plus or minus 3.4 percentage points.

An instant poll from CNN and SSRS, with a higher margin of error of plus or minus 6.3 points, showed 60% of respondents calling Biden the victor and 28% saying Trump won the debate.

Trump declared victory, though the president has repeatedly attacked Wallace in the wake of the debate.

"I won the debate big, based on compilation of polls etc," Trump tweeted Thursday morning.



Trump's camp also touted polling to suggest he won, including unscientific Twitter polls in which anyone can participate. White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany, for instance, cited one such Twitter poll from C-SPAN.

Wednesday's CNBC/Change Research poll also showed Biden gaining ground nationally over Trump: 54% of respondents picked Biden, while 41% picked Trump. That's wider than the gap currently displayed by some national polling average trackers.

The CNBC/Change Research poll sampled 925 national likely voters. It has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.22 percentage points. The margin of error grows to 3.47 points for questions about the debate, which were asked to the 796 voters in the poll who said they watched it.

With a month to go until Election Day, the president's window to change the trajectory of the race is rapidly narrowing.

Not only has Biden's polling lead held steady for months, but the Democrat's campaign is posting some of its biggest-ever fundraising numbers: Biden campaign officials said they raised $3.8 million through ActBlue in the final hour of the debate, a record for the site.

Recent developments in the campaign have also galvanized Biden's supporters to shell out more money. ActBlue said it processed more than $100 million in contributions following the death of liberal Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg last month.

Trump's supporters have been quick to point out that Democrat Hillary Clinton was heavily favored to win on the eve of the 2016 election. While Clinton won nearly 3 million more votes than Trump, she lost in the Electoral College as a result of a series of narrow defeats in key swing states.

But many of those same states now show Biden ahead in polling averages, albeit narrowly in some.

RealClearPolitics' battleground tracker, which follows polls in Florida, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, North Carolina and Arizona, has Biden up 3.5 points over Trump on average.
The Senate Commerce Committee on Thursday voted unanimously to subpoena the CEOs of Facebook, Google, and Twitter to testify on liability protections that guard the tech companies from being sued over content posted by users.

The subpoena requests testimony from Facebooks Mark Zuckerberg, Twitters Jack Dorsey, and Googles Sundar Pichai, all of whom have previously testified before Congress on various issues. Republican Chairman Roger Wicker of Mississippi pushed last week for the subpoenas, but when they will be issued was not announced.

The committee plans to hold a hearing focusing on Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, the law that protects tech companies from lawsuits over users posted content and allows the companies a large amount of leeway in moderating that content. The time of the hearing is yet to be determined.

I fear that Section 230s sweeping liability protections for Big Tech are stifling the true diversity of political discourse on the internet, Wicker said. This is not a partisan issue.

The committees ranking Democrat, Senator Maria Cantwell of Washington, had previously opposed the subpoena but agreed to it after Republicans broadened the scope of the subpoena to include data privacy and media issues.

What I dont want to see is a chilling effect on individuals who are in a process of trying to crack down on hate speech or misinformation about Covid during a pandemic, Cantwell cautioned.

Conservatives have long accused Silicon Valley of exhibiting bias against them, and President Trump said last week that he is considering concrete legal steps against social media platforms that he believes are censoring conservatives. The companies have denied harboring or acting on any biases.

Democrats on the Commerce Committee ultimately voted in favor of the subpoena but some expressed concern about the timing, saying the hearing should be held after the election.

This appears to me like an attempt to work the refs coming up to the election, Democratic Senator Brian Schatz said Thursday.

More from National Review
ROCHESTER, N.Y., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- On October 17th, 36 teens from around the country will compete to see who will be named America's Next Top Young Entrepreneur during the Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) 12th Annual Saunders Scholars National Competition. The virtual live Shark Tank style pitch competition will award over $80,000 in cash prizes and college scholarships to the Saunders College of Business at RIT to the students with the best businesses in the U.S. Viewers will be able to cast their vote in real-time for the People's Choice Award.

36 student semifinalists from 20 states will compete virtually representing 35 schools from across the country for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and a People's Choice Award. For the first time ever, the national competition will be a live broadcast from ABC-TV 13 WHAM Rochester, NY studio and will be live streamed on YEA!'s YouTube channel.

Students first competed locally in front of Young Entrepreneurs Academy investor panels in their hometowns in early 2020. The top business from each YEA! chapter was selected by a local panel of judges and will now go head to head at four semi-final panels to take place and streamed live throughout the day on October 17th from 12 noon to 6pm Eastern Time. Two student businesses from each semi-final panel, for a total of eight student businesses will advance to the finals round and pitch live from 7pm to 8pm Eastern Time in front of thousands of viewers. National winner announcements at 7:55pm Eastern Time. Viewers must register at yeausa.org to participate in the text-to-vote People's Choice Award.

"The competition is an incredible event celebrating the creativity, grit, and perseverance of America's young people," said YEA! funder and billionaire entrepreneur, Phil Saunders. "This year more than ever, we need to acknowledge the achievements and innovations of these young people."

The YEA! program is designed to help middle school and high school students build confidence through entrepreneurship education. Students participate in a nine-month curriculum often hosted in partnership with local chambers of commerce, colleges and universities, and middle and high schools. With the help of local business leaders, the students design, pitch, and launch businesses, complete with founding documents, bank accounts, and websites.

"YEA! is such an amazing experience for our community and for our Chamber," shared Troy M. McLellan, President & CEO of the Greater Boca Raton, Florida, Chamber of Commerce and member of the National Board of Directors of the Young Entrepreneurs Academy. "Not only are we able to engage our members in a meaningful way, but we're also creating a professional network for our young people, which we hope will encourage them to keep their talents here."

"We could not be more proud of the work these young people are doing and of our partners who are leading the charge across the Country delivering YEA!'s entrepreneurship education programs," said YEA! founder and CEO, Gayle Jagel. Our chambers of commerce, incubators, accelerators, universities, colleges and K12 partners who come together through YEA! are igniting the sparks of innovation in their communities and our country. Just imagine what our world would look like if every student got the chance to bring their ideas to life."

This year's awards will be sponsored in part by the E. Philip Saunders Foundation, Southwest Airlines, and the Saunders College of Business at RIT. Since 2004, YEA! has helped over 11,0000 students launch 9,000 businesses and has had alumni compete on ABC's Shark Tank, product feature on Good Morning America, and YEA! graduates have raised millions of dollars in VC funding.

More about the Young Entrepreneurs Academy

The Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) is a 501(c) 3 offering groundbreaking series of classes and workshops that teach middle and high school students how to start and run their own businesses. Throughout the program, students develop business ideas, write business plans, conduct market research, pitch their plans to a panel of investors for startup funds, and launch and run their own, fully formed companies and social movements. The project-based program empowers students to take charge of their futures.

Founded in 2004 at the University of Rochester with support from the Kauffman Foundation, YEA! today serves thousands of students to celebrate the spirit of enterprise among today's youth and tomorrow's future leaders.

YEA! bridges the business and educational communities to fulfill its mission of teaching more students how to make a job, not just take a job. For more information, visit yeausa.org

Saunders Foundation

E. Phillip Saunders, founder of numerous notable companies and chairman of several Boards of Directors, is known for his philanthropy and promotion of the Upstate New York economy. Mr. Saunders is a firm believer in the notion that an educated workforce is the key to economic growth. Mr. Saunders serves as a crucial Benefactor of RIT's business school, thus earning the name Saunders College of Business at RIT.

Saunders College of Business at RIT saunders.rit.edu

A world-renowned business school, the Saunders College of Business at RIT is driven in elevating students to make immediate and enduring contributions to organizations and the world through career-oriented experiences, education and research, while integrating business, technology and design thinking.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier's performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. Learn more about how the carrier gives back to communities across the world by visiting Southwest.com/citizenship .

Contact:

Gayle Jagel

585-429-0558

[email protected]

SOURCE Young Entrepreneurs Academy

Related Links

http://yeausa.org


The Government will now have a second option if judges fail to issue guidelines to reduce the level of damagers in personal injuries actions, a group seeking insurance reform said.

The Alliance for Insurance Reform welcomed the publication of the Law Reform Commission's report on the capping of damages that found there was no need for a referendum to cap award levels.

Judges are currently discussing "recalibrating" the level of awards under the auspices of the new Judicial Council.

High awards and elevated legal costs associated with them have been blamed for rising insurance premiums, with some insurers no longer covering certain risks.

The findings of the Law Reform Commission are seen as adding to the pressure on the Personal Injuries Guidelines Committee of the Judicial Council to issue guidelines for lower levels of awards for minor injuries.

Director of the Alliance Peter Boland said the Law Reform Commission "clearly endorses a Plan B - the capping of damages by the Oireachtas - if the Judicial Council does not fully reflect the common good in urgently delivering the dramatic reductions in damages for minor injuries necessary if we are to address our current insurance crisis in any meaningful way".

Insurance Ireland, the representative body for the sector, said the cost of personal injury awards is the defining issue in insurance.

"That's why we've been engaging with Government and other stakeholders for years to work towards bringing about reform of the cost of claims to the benefit of consumers," it said.

In the Programme for Government, Fianna Fail, Fine Gael and the Green Party all committed to considering the need for a constitutional amendment to enable the Oireachtas to set guidelines on award levels.

The Personal Injuries Guidelines Committee of the Judicial Council is due to issue draft guidelines to the Board of the Judicial Council by the October 28.

The Bar of Ireland, which represents barristers, said it was in favour of the option in the Law Reform Commission report that advocates the assessment and award of damages should remain an independent judicial function.

Last week the National Competitive Council flagged high insurance costs as a structural impediment for businesses in Ireland in its pre-Budget submission.

Tanaiste Leo Varadkar is in charge of a Cabinet committee seeking to introduce reforms that would reduce insurance costs.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman (File image: Reuters)

As the country eagerly awaits the second tranche of stimulus measures from the government, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that it was willing to spend. However, it is yet to take a call on the timing and the quantum.

In an interview with Business Standard, Sitharaman said that she did not agree on the allegations that the relation between the Centre and states had deteriorated during the second term of Modi's government.

As for the controversial farm bills that sparked nation-wide protests, the finance minister said that the opposition should have brought up these discussions about the minimum support price (MSP) system ultimately going away and small farmers not getting a fair price from big corporate houses as a result of the system in parliament.

"Even at the time of passing the ordinances, none of these apprehensions came up. The first question that all of us, including several Opposition parties, kept putting in our manifestos was that the farmer is the only producer today who does not have a choice on whom to sell, where to sell, and at what prices," she said, adding that the government via the bill had created a system to empower farmers through which they could bargain for better prices and avoid middlemen.

Speaking on the impact of the lockdown, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharamn said that the COVID-19 pandemic had brought on a challenge unforeseen in India's history and it could not be compared with anything before.

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 the end of the second quarter theres still only patchy revival happening and patchy revivals are very difficult to document in terms of measurability. So, well have to see how it goes," said Sitharaman.

When asked about concerns that the government is not willing to spend during this period, the Finance Minister set the record straight by saying that there is a difference between willing to spend and when to spend.

"I am not sure that is right. Willing to spend is different from when to spend and how much to spend. The government is listening to so many people, listening to literally everyone whos been contacting and giving us inputs. Of course, we will have to time what we want to do," she said.

As for the verdict given by the Permanent Court of Arbitration at Hague in favour of Vodafone, the Finance Minister said that the government has not yet decided on whether they want to challenge it.

As for the criticism the centre received from Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) for using the compensation cess collections for other purposes, the Finance Minister said that the collected money goes to the consolidated fund of India and then comes to the compensation fund and then gets dispersed to states. Once it went there, it wasnt transferred into the fund.

As a result, the centre experienced a couple of months of difficulty, she said. "After I came, one of the first things I did was to get that out of the consolidated fund and put it into the fund and then be able to distribute it to states. That is why I could clear last years compensation when it was just about Rs 95,000 crore and we had given out Rs 1.6 trillion to the states," she said.

On Amnesty International recently pulling the plug on its India operations, the finance minister clarified that they had been given permission under FCRA in 2000, but the permit was withdrawn in 2009 when Modi was not the PM.

"There is no witch-hunt here, this government has nothing against the civil society," she added.
China's relationship with the West has become more strained in recent years - EPA

The outgoing head of MI6 has said the West got it wrong on China.

Sir Alex Younger warned that a major mistake was the assumption, held for the past two decades, that the Chinese Communist Party would become more like the West as it matured.

He said: The idea that as they matured and became richer they were going to become more like us is for the birds.

I think youre seeing a steady but definite ideological divergence taking place. There will be at least two dominant value systems on one planet into the medium term and thats just a fact and its where we are going.

Sir Alex warned that while it was important to pick up China over malicious cyber attacks, it was important to be able to live alongside each other peacefully, rather than in a state of cold war.

I am not a Manichean, I dont think its black or white, and thats why I reject this cold war idea, he told The Financial Times.

Beijing has denied allegations of human rights abuses of China's Uighur population - REUTERS

His comments come after Britains trade relationship with China came under threat as MPs proposed Uighurs should be allowed to petition UK courts for a genocide ruling.

Sir Iain Duncan Smith, the cofounder of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, which is campaigning to stop the human rights abuses of the Uighurs in Chinas Xinjiang province, told The Telegraph earlier this week that a cross-party group of MPs had joined forces to stop doing trade with countries accused of genocide.

Sir Iain said he was convinced that the Chinese government was performing the systematic eradication of the Uighur people.

Liu Xiaoming, the Chinese ambassador to the UK, previously called allegations about human rights abuses in Xinjiang the lies of the century.

It followed already strained relations with Beijing after Boris Johnson bowed to backbench MPs demands in July and banned Huawei, the Chinese tech giant, from the UKs 5G network, with an agreement to strip out its existing infrastructure over the next few years.

Huawei is viewed as a security threat due to Chinese laws that oblige private firms to hand over data to the government if required.

Story continues

A US embargo on the sale of secure American-made chips to the company also increased the perceived danger. China had previously warned that Britain would bear the consequences if it treated the country as a hostile provider, and was further disgruntled after Britain offered three million Hong Kong residents a home in the UK following its decision to impose strict security laws on the former colony.

On Wednesday, Ciaran Martin, the former head of the National Cyber Security Centre, told MPs that the GCHQ agency had monitored Huawei closely for a decade before ministers banned it from the UK telecoms network because it could have been turned against Britain by the Chinese Communist state.

He told the science and technology committee, any hostile foreign disruption to the telecoms network would have catastrophic consequences. It came as a Centre for Policy Studies report said the delay to 5G due to the Huawei ban and pandemic could cost the UK economy 41 billion by 2027.
WILLISTOWN  Gov. Tom Wolf came to Greentree Park in Malvern Thursday to call on preserving the Affordable Care Act (ACA), and protecting womens health care.

He was joined by state Rep. Kristine Howard, D-167th, of Malvern, state Sen. Tim Kearney, D-26th, of Swarthmore, and Kathryn Kolbert, a reproductive rights attorney.

The officials discussed the coverage and protections the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, provides for women, and said it is important to preserve the ACA to protect the health and safety of Pennsylvanians.

Wolf said that under the ACA, preventive care is available to women free of charge, including annual mammograms and well-woman visits, birth control and breastfeeding support. Additionally, women are protected from being charged more simply for being women, or for becoming pregnant.

My administration has consistently pushed for improvements in womens health care, Wolf said. Those improvements support the gains in free preventive care and the protections for pre-existing conditions that the ACA provides. That gives women needed control over their own health, but that control  and access to affordable coverage for many Pennsylvanians  is in jeopardy right now.

Kolbert spoke about the threat to womens health care with the nomination of Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court. Kolbert argued before the Supreme Court in Planned Parenthood v. Casey which has been credited with saving Roe v. Wade.

The confirmation of Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court will place in jeopardy both the Affordable Care Act and Roe v. Wade, denying millions of American women access to safe and affordable health care, said Kolbert. Senator (Pat) Toomey, the women of Pennsylvania will remember if you forsake womens health in this political power grab. Let the voters decide whether President Trump or President Biden will select the next Supreme Court Justice.

Historically womens health has been treated as secondary to mens with less spending on research, said Wolf.

Wolf said health outcomes for women of color are worse than those for white women. They are more likely to be hospitalized due to asthma, diabetes, and COPD compared to white women, and more likely to give birth to a stillborn baby than white women. In 2018, Black women were five times more likely to be living with chronic Hepatitis B compared to white women.

A radical change to the United States Supreme Court could lead to the end of the Affordable Care Act and the legal precedent of Roe v. Wade, said Howard. We have a responsibility to protect the thousands of Pennsylvanians who would lose their health care and the women who would lose their right to make their own choices in matters of reproductive health.

The Trump Administration is in federal court trying to overturn the Affordable Care Act and rip away health coverage from millions of people, Kearney said. More than 5 million people in Pennsylvania who have pre-existing conditions will see their premiums increase dramatically or lose their coverage altogether. Especially during a global pandemic, we should be strengthening the ACA to reduce costs and expand coverage. We need to fight back because lives hang in the balance.

About 30 people watched the event which was held in the park. A few attendees held up signs supporting Democratic candidates, while others were police officers and public officials.

I wanted to see how many people were here, said Richard Lee, a Willistown resident who sat in his car videoing the event. It wasnt promoted, I just heard about it this morning.

Two men who were not there in support of the event occasionally heckled the governor.

Open the schools, yelled Jim Ward of King of Prussia who complained to a reporter that schools in Upper Merion are still closed. The other gentleman did not give his name but also criticized Wolf with calls to open schools.

At the end of the event, Wolf took a few questions and pointed out that while the pandemic has become contentious with limits on businesses the state is no longer shut down. He said schools reopening in-person are a local decision. Wolf said people need to stay safe and minimize the spread of the virus.

Weve got to make sure that were being reasonable and realistic in how we do things, Wolf said. Im doing everything I can listening to folks and continue to change.

He also noted the White House Coronavirus Task Force official Dr. Debra Birx has given the state high marks for doing the right thing in reopening while keeping residents safe.
Corporate Clients of the TMCs Gain Full Visibility into their Business Travel Spend in Real Time

Dallas-based Traxo, the global leader in travel data capture and itinerary intelligence, announced today at the BTN Global Travel Risk Summit Europe that it signed a pair of international travel management company (TMC) consortia: London-based Advantage Travel Partnership is the largest independent travel agent group in the UK, and WIN Global Travel Network, has around 6,000 TMC member locations in 75 countries. Combined, their total 2019 annual travel spend was over US $15 billion.

"When the COVID pandemic lockdowns started occurring, corporate travel managers and TMCs worldwide immediately realized they had serious gaps in their business travel data," said Traxo Chief Executive Officer Andres Fabris. "Despite company policy, employees inevitably had booked their travel 'out-of-policy' or 'off-channel,' and therefore, that booking data was invisible during this critical time.

"As a result, companies had no idea if their employees were stuck in a country that had just closed its borders or had recently returned from a virus 'hot spot,' and needed to be quarantined. Basically, all the missing travel bookings created a last-minute duty-of-care crisis. Subsequently, the most progressive TMCs realised that the ability to service off-channel bookings can actually become a competitive advantage and create a value-added, revenue-producing service."

Through the new "Traxo for TMCs" offering, Advantage and WIN member TMCs will promote Traxo's travel data capture services to their corporate customers, which will enable the corporations to automatically share all of their business travel data, regardless of booking channel, with their TMCs in real time, enabling their TMCs to provide enhanced traveler duty of care, and better auditing of total corporate travel spend.

Advantage Travel Partnership Chief Executive Officer Julia Lo Bue-Said commented, "We're delighted that Advantage Travel Partnership, with its 200-plus TMC members and the international WIN Global Travel Network, of which Advantage is the majority shareholder, are Traxo's first UK partners. Duty of care is higher than ever on travel managers' agendas, and therefore it's absolutely invaluable for TMCs to be aware of their clients' employees' travel itineraries in real time, regardless of whether they were booked by the TMC or not.

"Advantage and WIN are committed to providing access to the most comprehensive portfolio of tools in the market to ensure members can best serve the needs of their clients."

Compared to other corporate travel data capture tools that require travellers to manually forward each confirmation email, Traxo's solution requires no training, action or effort on behalf of the employee. The travel bookings, including cancellations or trip changes, are automatically captured as they are made, enabling the TMC and the travel manager to immediately react and make adjustments as needed for risk mitigation and cost savings purposes.

The new "Traxo for TMCs" offering provides corporate travel agencies with GDPR-compliant, seamless access to their clients' non-TMC booking data. TMCs simply refer their clients to Traxo for implementation, and once live, the non-TMC booking and spend data aggregated by Traxo is instantly available to the corporate's TMC via online reporting tools and API integration. The TMC can then consolidate that additional data into their own applications, analytics, reporting and support services as desired.

About Traxo:

Dallas-based Traxo, Inc., the global leader in travel data capture and visibility, eliminates blind spots and enhances duty of care by enabling corporate travel managers and managed travel agencies to easily track and proactively manage complete omnichannel travel activity in a single, real-time, system of record. Traxo clients and partners include United Airlines, Lufthansa, Easy Jet, TripAdvisor, Chrome River Emburse, Coupa, International SOS, WorldAware. and many more. The two most recent Business Travel News Travel Managers of the Year use Traxo. With Traxo, corporations enhance traveler safety, maximize savings, and deliver an experience employees love. Learn more at www.traxo.com. @Traxo

About Advantage and WIN

Advantage Travel Partnership is the UK's largest independent travel agent and travel management company partnership. Advantage Business Travel TMC's are each independently owned, but as a collective they produce over 4.5bn of business travel sales each year, making members experts in every aspect of the travel industry. The Advantage membership has around 200 UK corporate travel management companies (TMCs) servicing corporate clients, predominantly within the SME market. In addition, Advantage is the majority shareholder in the WIN Global Travel Network, another network of corporate travel experts, on an international scale. It is a global ecosystem of like-minded TMCs, with an annual collective spend of US$15 billion. WIN Partners are present in more than 75 countries, with the scope to share knowledge and best practices between these corporate travel experts around the world. www.advantagemembers.com https://wintravel.org/

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201001005448/en/

Contacts:

For Advantage/WIN:

Jane Richards

bgadvantage@finnpartners.com



For Traxo:

Karin Wacaser

Karin.Wacaser@Traxo.com or 001 (214) 215-8605
KOLKATA: An elderly poor woman became rich overnight after selling a huge fish weighing 52 kilograms which she caught from a river in West Bengal.

According to reports, Pushpa Kar, a resident of Chakphuldubi village on Sagar Island in West Bengal, pulled out a giant fish from a river, which sold at a price of Rs 300,000.

The catch was sold at the local market for Rs 6,200 per kilogramme.

Pushpa said that the fish turned out to be a jackpot for her as she got over Rs 3 lakh by selling it in the wholesale market.

Bengal woman turns rich overnight.

Pushpa Kar, a resident of Sagar Islands, Bengal caught a huge fish weighing 52 kgs and sold it for Rs. 3 lakh. pic.twitter.com/nnWWaBQdZ2  Pooja Mehta (@pooja_news) September 29, 2020

I have never seen such a giant fish in my life. It is called Bhola fish in Bengali, the poor old woman said.

Live TV

According to the locals, the size of the fish and the amount it fetched were both huge. The woman had to make a lot of effort to drag the fish from the river and bring it to the village. She was able to bring it to the fish market with the help of the locals.

The fish most was probably killed as it collided with a vessel, a villager said.

On the other hand, local traders said that the fish would have fetched more amount if it had not started to decompose. The fat of the fish, called blubber, is sold at a high price and exported to countries in Southeast Asia.
Things got a little tensed in space after an air leak was discovered at the International Space Station. The crew members have been busy looking for the source of the leak for several weeks now, but the search was stepped up when the size of the leak appeared to grow on Monday.

According to ground teams who analysed the situation, the leak is traced to the main work area inside a Russian ISS module called Zvezda. This module contains life support equipment for the space station and also houses living quarters for two crew members.

However, according to Space News, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) says they are still not sure of the source of the leak on the International Space Station after the crew spent two weekends confined to Zvezda.

The Expedition 63 crew of NASA astronaut and station commander Chris Cassidy and Roscosmos cosmonauts Anatoly Ivanishin and Ivan Vagner remained inside the Zvezda module in the Russian segment of the station from the evening of September 25 until the morning of September 28. Hatches between other modules of the station were all closed to identify which one had the leak.

However, NASA stressed that the leak poses no immediate danger to the crew at the current leak rate and will only cause a slight deviation to the crews ongoing work schedule. Cassidy, Ivanishin and Vagner were instructed to move into the module suspected of being the source of the leak to collect data at various locations in the Russian modules, which was the third time in over a month that the crew had to isolate themselves on the Russian side, in an attempt to find the growing leak.

Using an ultrasonic leak detector to collect data, the team analysed pressure measurements throughout the night to try to isolate the source of the leak. After the overnight checks were complete, the crew opened hatches once again between the US and Russian segments of the station, resuming their normal activities.
This past Saturday, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed bill SB 132 that will allow prison inmates to be housed based on their "gender identity."

Gender identity, as defined by Britannica, is "an individual's self-conception as a man or woman or as a boy or girl or as some combination of man/boy and woman/girl or as someone fluctuating between man/boy and woman/girl or as someone outside those categories altogether." It, therefore, differs from biological sex, which is based on one's anatomy at birth.

Thus, SB 132 will require the California Department of Correction and Rehabilitation to "house the person in a correctional facility designated for men or women based on the individual's preference," as well as to use the desired pronouns and honorifics desired by the individual. With its passing, Newsom hopes that SB 132 will strengthen protections for LGBTQ+ individuals in California. However, critics had much to say over this new bill, and many believe that it would achieve the opposite of what Newsom hopes.

"Allowing men to identify into being incarcerated with women, and this is unlikely to be used by women to get into men's prisons, constitutes a depraved indifference to the safety and dignity of women held in custody by the State of California," Natasha Chart, board chair of the Women's Liberation Front, stated.

She further elaborated explaining, "The state should do better to make men's prisons safe for all men, not pass laws to allow some at-risk men to stay with the women in lower-security facilities. Critically, a man being targeted for violence by other men doesn't make that man safe company for women. Consider that sex offenders are especially despised in men's prisons, and would be highly motivated to take advantage of this law. But they're the last men who ought to be allowed to do so, and there isn't even a recognition of this context anywhere in the bill."

Along with signing SB 132, Newsom also adopted bill AB 2218, which would establish a Transgender Wellness and Equity Fund. This fund would give grants to healthcare organizations serving "transgender, gender non-conforming, or intersex (TGI)" individuals to facilitate gender treatments such as hormones and surgeries.

Although Newsom believes this bill to be taking another step towards better equality, many critics fear that the bill "opens the door to drugs and surgeries causing irreversible damage, risking life-long sterility for young people."

Jonathan Keller, president of the California Family Council is one such particularly vocal critic, and stated, "By rejecting the concerns of doctors and parents and siding with LGBT activists, Governor Newsom yet again ignoring the heartbreak his policies will unleash. Sadly, the Governor failed in his God-given responsibility to protect the people he was elected to serve."
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 10:20:01|Editor: huaxia

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Actors dressed as pantomime dames and a theatre industry worker (C) take part in a protest to highlight the plight of the theatre sector amid the coronavirus pandemic, at Parliament Square in London, Britain, on Sept. 30, 2020. Demonstrators marched to Parliament Square in central London to highlight the impact that the cancellation of the pantomime season will have on theatres and their employees, calling for support for workers who are ineligible for financial help from the government. (Xinhua/Han Yan)
Nearly 100 leaders in the art world have called on four museums to reverse proposals to delay a large retrospective of Philip Guston, including some of the author's depictions of the Ku Klux Klan.

The collective of writers, curators, writers and academics wrote an open letter released by the New York-based journal Brooklyn Rail. The group "shocked and saddened" by the decision to pause the exhibition. The event begins in London next year before traveling to the US until 2024.

The exhibition, entitled "Philip Guston Now," put together 125 works and 70 sketches by the American Canadian painter who died in 1980. Guston, the son of Ukrainian Jewish immigrants, produced a series of artworks depicting hooded Klansmen as part of his satire on ethnic brutality and American identity.

Why the postponement?

However, last week, exhibition organizers revealed that they were suspending the event by three years, noting the advent of global civil justice debates.

The four host museums - namely London's Tate Modern, Washington DC's National Gallery of Art, the Boston Museum of Fine Arts and its namesake in Houston - said they needed more time for "additional viewpoints" about how the artworks should be viewed.

In a joint statement, the directors of the museums said postponed the show "until a period when we feel it is necessary to perceive more explicitly the important idea of social and ethnic justice at the heart of the work of Philip Guston."

A representative of the Washington National Gallery of Art, speaking to the art business website Artnews, added that organizers were concerned that the "painful" photos may have been "misinterpreted."

But the move was slammed by the signatories of the document, which included Nicole Eisenman and Matthew Barney, contemporary musicians. Many influential African American artists, including Lorna Simpson, Charles Gaines, and Stanley Whitney, have signed the document.

The party accused the four organizations of neglecting their duty to portray Guston's work's "profundity and scope." They also identified the change as an "illustration of white culpability."

The letter, which has attracted more than 900 additional signatures from the public, claimed the organizers "fear controversy."

"Hiding away images of the KKK will not serve that end," it added. "Quite the opposite."

Fascinated by evil

Guston rose to attention in the 1950s as part of the New York School art revolution alongside icons including Jackson Pollock and Willem de Kooning. While well known at the time - like many of his contemporaries - for Abstract Expressionist pieces, in the late 1960s he started making more figurative paintings. A variety of cartoon depictions of KKK participants, which he sometimes portrayed as driving or smoking, were among these later pieces.

The paintings were often deep thoughts on Guston's own feelings of culpability, as well as becoming a Jewish artist reporting on an institution with a lengthy history of antisemitism. The artist also identified them as "self-portraits."

He once explained that the idea of evil fascinated him. He added he almost tried to imagine that he was living with the Klan. "What would it be like to be evil?"

Owing to the Covid-19 pandemic, the opening of "Philip Guston Now" was already postponed by more than eight months. The first big retrospective of the artist's work in more than 15 years was rescheduled to launch in London in February 2021.

Yet although the paintings have been displayed in museums in the following years, in the context of the Black Lives Matter campaign and continuing demonstrations for social rights, art galleries now undergo heightened pressure to draw on their own holdings and curatorial decisions.
AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a recent study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 160,000 children miss school every day across the U.S. out of fear of being bullied. Another 15 percent of children said they were bullied online. That's why Superior is supporting a nationwide effort this October, highlighting National Bullying Prevention Month and encouraging schools, communities and organizations to work together to stop bullying and cyberbullying.

"At Superior, we're committed to supporting the health and well-being of children all across the state, and that includes helping in the fight to end bullying," said Dr. David Harmon, Chief Medical Director at Superior. "Bullying can affect overall health in a variety of ways, including physical injury, social and emotional distress, self-harm, increased risk for depression and anxiety, and it can even lead to dropping out of school."

One of the ways Texans  in particular parents and other adults  can help prevent bullying is by understanding the role they can have in this effort. Here are some tips to prevent bullying:

Help kids understand bullying: Talk about what bullying is and how to stand up to it safely. Tell kids bullying is unacceptable and make sure they know how to get help.

Talk about what bullying is and how to stand up to it safely. Tell kids bullying is unacceptable and make sure they know how to get help. Keep the lines of communication open: Check in with kids often and listen to them. Know their friends, ask about school, and understand their concerns.

Check in with kids often and listen to them. Know their friends, ask about school, and understand their concerns. Encourage kids to do what they love: Special activities, interests and hobbies can boost confidence, help kids make friends, and protect them from bullying behavior.

Special activities, interests and hobbies can boost confidence, help kids make friends, and protect them from bullying behavior. Model how to treat others: Be kind and respectful on a daily basis, especially while in the presence of children.

Be kind and respectful on a daily basis, especially while in the presence of children. Talk about cyberbullying: Even if students are not attending school in-person, bullying can still happen online. Talk with your child about safe ways to be active online or by text.

For years, Superior has been committed to helping prevent bullying. In 2020 alone, Superior teamed up with 13 schools across Texas and saw nearly 5,000 students in attendance for the initiative No One Eats Alone Day, developed by the non-profit Beyond Differences. The annual event empowers children and teenagers to change the culture in their schools through special presentations, classroom activities, brainstorming sessions and student leadership training. No One Eats Alone Day is sponsored by the Centene Charitable Foundation.

For more resources on what bullying is, the consequences and how to prevent it, visit the CDC's bullying resources page.

About Superior HealthPlan

Founded in 1999, Superior HealthPlan is a managed care company that delivers quality health care throughout Texas. Committed to transforming the health of the community, one person at a time, Superior supports active local involvement in all 254 Texas counties with more than 4,000 employees in 8 offices throughout the state. Superior is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Centene Corporation, a leading multi-national healthcare enterprise offering both core Medicaid and specialty services. More information on Superior can be found at www.SuperiorHealthPlan.com.

1CDC

https://www.cdc.gov

SOURCE Superior HealthPlan

Related Links

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Edward Everett Hale wrote a short story entitled, Man without a Country. He describes a young man who in a moment of great emotion shouts, I wish I may never hear of the United States again. The consequences for the young man are tragic. His wish is granted  he never again sets foot on American soil, nor is anyone allowed to speak to him of his country. The remaining years of his life are filled with regret at the opportunities lost.

If we ignore, or redesign our history to placate the whim of popular sentiment, we will forfeit much. Our nation was founded upon biblical principles by people with a desire to find an opportunity to worship the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, without interference from king or state church.

Our great freedoms and liberties have emerged from a Judeo-Christian worldview, derived from the Bible. Each generation must determine which principles will guide us. This is a tremendous responsibility, for it only requires three generations for an idea to be lost. If we fail to embrace those things that brought us liberty and freedom, and to teach them to the next generation, we are abandoning our responsibilities.

History is often seen as burdensome, dry, or laborious. I disagree. Understanding how God has consistently blessed America  time and again pouring out upon us His grace and mercy  provides hope for the days ahead. We cannot afford to forget our past  good and bad  or we will forfeit the best opportunities of our future

Theres no question that God has blessed our nation. We wouldnt be the people we are, and we would not have enjoyed the blessings we have had without the grace and the mercy of God being showered upon us.

The problems we face are not political in their origin; theyre not medical or scientific. The root of the problems that we face, the root of whats causing the anxiety in our streets and the sickness and disease across our nation, begins at a spiritual level. We have thought sitting in church and being polite was the same thing as seeking God. But if we will change, the good news is that we have the power to bring about a different outcome. We dont need an army. We dont need Congress to vote. We dont need an election. If we will humble ourselves, God will move, and our children and our grandchildren will get a different future.

Now, lest we despair (because if you just watch the evening news, or you took the temperature of our current culture, you can be filled with despair), there is significant historical and biblical evidence that cultures can be renewed, even those that have been the most corrupt and the most intractable. But if were to restore our world, if were to see Gods restoration, we first have to shake off the comfortable notion that Christianity is merely a personal experience  that its primarily just about your private life.

Moral clarity does not require an uncritical evaluation of our own history and western ideals. Patriotism is not crude nationalism. Injustice isnt the sin of shortcomings. Theyre certainly a part of the American story, and we have to say so. But a fair and serious study of our own history shows that our nation, without a doubt, has been and continues to be a great force for good in the modern world. You and I are heirs to a precious legacy, but the perpetuation of our nation is not assured.

Pericles said to his fellow Athenians, Your country has a right to your services in sustaining the glories of her position; these are a common source of pride to you all and you cannot decline the burdens of empire and still expect to share its honors.

An America that declines its burdens  a nation that is indifferent as to why it fights will deteriorate, will decline, and ultimately will fail. Thats the prospect we face. I submit that we are standing on a precipice  the dividing line  and the time has come for us to begin to remember our heritage and the sacrifices that have been made for us so that we might enjoy the privileges that we have today. They have not come without cost, and they wont be extended to the generations who follow us without sacrifice on our part. We cannot, with a clear conscience, gobble up the blessings of God and ignore our responsibilities towards obedience and faithfulness and imagine that those blessings will be extended to those who follow us.
Employee relocation packages help companies attract candidates from other parts of the country  and even the world.

There are three main types of employee relocation packages, and each has pros and cons.

Employees may try to negotiate the details of their relocation package.

This article is for employers who are looking into providing an employee relocation plan, as well as employees who want to know what's fair to expect.

Every small business owner wants to find the right candidate for an open position, and every job hunter looks to land the perfect gig. But what happens if the job candidate lives far away from the employer? In many cases, the answer is an employee relocation package. With the proper consideration and forethought, an employee relocation package can benefit all parties involved.

What is an employee relocation package?

An employee relocation package is a perk that companies use to assist new and current employees in moving from one location to another because the job requires it. This type of assistance happens more often in certain fields than in others. For example, tech companies, like LinkedIn and Spotify, typically offer relocation assistance.

If a small business is comfortable building its workforce locally, then it doesn't make sense to worry about an employee relocation package. But for businesses looking outside their geographic area, this kind of offer could be enticing enough to get a great candidate to move closer.

With a good job opening and the right employee relocation package, businesses can attract candidates from all over the country. A 2019 survey conducted by staffing company Robert Half found that approximately 62% of the more than 2,800 workers surveyed said they would consider relocating for the right job. Researchers also found that Raleigh, North Carolina; Miami; Des Moines, Iowa; and Charlotte, North Carolina were among the cities with the highest number of respondents who said they would move for a job.

While the decision for many job seekers depends largely on where they'd be leaving and where they'd be relocating to, it all comes down to the cost and the hassle of the move.

Key takeaway: Relocation assistance can help a new hire or a current employee move to a new city, state or country for work. By making the move easier and less expensive for employees, you can foster a higher employee retention rate and attract strong talent.

What does an employee relocation package typically include?

There are many approaches and options to consider when creating an employee relocation package, and the individual benefits may determine how attractive the package is for candidates. It is very difficult to understand an employee's needs before they start the relocation, Ilona A. Keilich, managing director of ExpatsGuide, told Business News Daily.

"There are a lot of hidden costs that can be quickly forgotten if the relocation is not managed properly," she said. "It is in the interest of the employer to ensure the relocation goes smoothly."

An employee relocation package can include a variety of options. Here are some components to consider:

Relocation reimbursement

Moving is costly, so companies can help by offering some financial reimbursement for expenses such as moving services, mover's insurance or transportation. While some companies provide the funds only after the moving employee submits relevant expense reports, others opt for a single lump sum upfront.

Flexible start date

New hires normally start about two weeks after accepting a job offer. However, if that new employee must move, it may take longer. When developing a relocation program, businesses should keep that in mind and ask employees how much time they need. By working with new hires from the outset, companies establish a more realistic time frame for the move and can also take the first steps toward creating a good working relationship.

Free visits

In some instances, companies let employees visit the region so they can get a lay of the land before making a big move. This usually means regular trips to the new location so they can start looking for housing and learn more about the area.

Temporary housing

If the employee needs to start by a certain date, companies can also consider temporary housing. Thanks to the rise of house-sharing programs like Airbnb, companies can avoid putting someone up at a costly hotel, though that option remains. Temporary housing can help the employee adjust to the new locale in a month or two. Along with rental costs for those two months, companies also often cover utilities.

Familial support

When hiring someone and asking them to move closer to your office, it's important to remember that they likely have people who depend on them. In some cases, it would make sense to assist the relocating individual's family in acclimating. Sometimes this means helping a spouse or partner find employment elsewhere, as well as providing child care and finding the right school for children.

Real estate cost assistance

In many instances, companies can help by covering the costs associated with buying or selling a home. Companies often do this by helping to market the employee's old home or buying the property themselves to sell at a later date. If an employee is a renter with a lease agreement in place, a company can address that problem by covering any costs that result from breaking that contract.

Pay adjustments or bonuses

The cost of living varies from city to city and state to state. As an added relocation incentive, some companies offer commensurate pay adjustments or relocation bonuses to help cover the difference. This is especially beneficial in states with high tax rates.

Payback clause

It's important for companies to get a return on investment from the relocation process. To cover their bases, businesses should consider adding a payback clause, which states that if the relocated employee leaves before a set period of time, they will have to repay the company's relocation costs.

Key takeaway: Employee relocation packages vary, but some options to consider include relocation reimbursement, a flexible start date, free visits, temporary housing, familial support, real estate cost assistance, pay adjustments or bonuses, and a payback clause.

How much do employers spend on employee relocation options?

Relocating an employee can be a costly endeavor for companies. The average relocation package costs between $21,327 and $24,913 for renters and between $61,622 and $79,429 for homeowners, according to a 2016 report by Worldwide ERC, a relocation services trade group.

Though the final cost of an employee relocation package varies widely, there are ways for companies to calculate and reduce these costs.

How to calculate employee relocation costs

As companies create relocation budgets, they can estimate how much a particular relocation effort could cost by considering the following expenses:

Travel to the new location

Packing and moving service costs

Moving insurance

Short-term housing

Storage units or other temporary storage solutions

Home sale or purchase

Tax gross up for benefits

Relocation taxes

While most of those items are self-explanatory, "relocation tax gross up" is less familiar to most people. A tax gross up is when an employer increases a person's gross amount of a payment to take the withheld taxes into account. Doing this prevents the employee from having to pay out of pocket.

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 essentially removed relocation expense tax exemptions and deductions. Because of those changes, which also ended the IRS 50-mile rule, relocation is a more expensive prospect.

Key takeaway: Some factors to consider when calculating the cost of an employee relocation package include expenses related to travel, housing and taxes.

Why employees should consider negotiating their relocation package

While employers have a lot to consider when creating employee relocation packages, the employees are ultimately the ones who are making a big life change and, as such, will want to keep some things in mind. Key among those considerations is the ability to negotiate the relocation package.

Though most companies have a relocation package mostly figured out by the time they offer a job, employees may have individual needs or requests for making the move as painless as possible. Priya Jindal, founder of Nextpat, said employees shouldn't hesitate to ask for those things.

"For many companies, relocating you in the beginning is a cheaper option than an initial salary boost," Jindal said. "Of course, that's a separate negotiation consideration."

For relocations, Jindal said her organization provides the following benefits:

A few days off

House-hunting trips domestically, and housing internationally

10 days of hotel expense reimbursement on either end of the move

Payment of all moving expenses, including the packing up

Storage

Key takeaway: Employees should make sure to get the best relocation assistance package by discussing potential options with their employer.
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The aged care royal commission has called on the federal government to immediately fund additional staff in aged care facilities, and has criticised the government's lack of a dedicated plan or clear leadership which left families and facilities wondering who was in charge.

On Thursday, the commission made six recommendations, including the establishment of an aged care advisory body and a COVID-19 plan for the sector which would include protocols between state and federal governments to remove confusion.

All too often, the commissioners said in the report, families, providers and health care workers "did not have an answer to the critical question: Who is in charge?"

Commissioners Tony Pagone and Lynelle Briggs said levels of depression, anxiety, confusion, loneliness and suicide risk among aged care residents have increased since lockdowns began in March which resulted in most families being unable to visit.
If Mitch McConnells toadying Senate has its way, we are to have a more conservative Supreme Court come the elections in November, even though it looks like the current concept of harsh conservatism will be roundly rejected in them.

One branch of government, if President Donald Trump and McConnell have their way, will be handed over to an extreme vision of conservatism that has no deep-seated philosophy behind it.

It is a corruption of a noble stream of political thought and its consequence is a political class that adheres to narrow, divisive issues that have an oppressive social effect. Taken together these have the result of seeming to be heartless and causing pain to the poor and under-educated.

That isnt the conservatism we have known for decades: the conservatism of Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford, Ronald Reagan and the two George Bushes. It is a political virus that threatens the Grand Old Party with years of loss of elective office.

If these aberrant Republicans use their form of judicial activism to keep Trumpism alive, they will be ensuring todays ugly discord for a long time.

The issues which divide us arent the solid Republican values of yesteryear of limited government, free trade, market solutions, open opportunity, strong defense, active scientific inquiry, educational excellence, personal freedom and privacy, and universal prosperity.

Not the cramped and spleen-imbued issues that are about to dominate the Senate GOPs foraging for like-mindedness in the coming hearings.

They are out to burden conservatism with narrow views on a few issues which arent intrinsically conservative, including: Abortion; the death penalty; healthcare; and sexual preference

Rigidity on these matters  except for sexual preference  has the effect of laying a disproportionate burden on the poor and, therefore, stimulating the far left of the Democratic Party, empowering the followers of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y.

Take just two matters. Abortion falls heavily on the poor. Nobody suggests that it is a good means of contraception, but unwanted pregnancies do occur. They can break up families, cause economic burdens, and bring children into untenable poverty, social dysfunction and other misery.

What women do in private shouldnt be governed by the Senate or the court.

The death penalty, which has failed spectacularly as a proven deterrent to murder, likewise falls mainly on the poor  often the poor and mentally challenged. The record shows that rich people arent taken to the death chamber at dawn. Superior lawyering from the moment of arrest keeps them from later capital punishment.

What is the ultra-conservative value proposition then?

The same imbalance extends throughout our remarkably punitive legal system that punishes those on societys bottom rungs more aggressively than those at the top.

Families were destroyed and social mayhem resulted in the mortgage excesses of the last financial crisis. I saw it devastate one of my employees of that time: a struggling Black man of impeccable character but limited education who was talked into unwise refinancing by rapacious mortgage lenders.

He lost his home, his good name, everything. No one across the length and breadth of the scandal went to prison for the damage their greed inflected.

All the other right-wing issues of the day have the same characteristics: They defend the upper reaches of society, those with money, and are harsh and inconsiderate of the rest.

Healthcare glares in this. A patchy and capricious system will become worse for tens of millions of Americans if the legal attack on the Affordable Care Act by the Trump administration goes against the sick in the Supreme Court  a court weighted against ordinary people in pursuit of a suspect interpretation of conservatism.

Radical conservatism is also out to extinguish the labor movement, or what is left of it. A robust labor movement is a bulwark against the pitiless downgrading of the worker from dignity to subservience, living in fear and rewarded inadequately.

The rush to the bottom is becoming a national sinkhole. We can all fall into it eventually.

Llewellyn King is executive producer and host of White House Chronicle on PBS. His email is llewellynking1@gmail.com. He wrote this for InsideSource.com.
CHEVY CHASE, Md., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Throughout the month of October, youth from across the country will apply their knowledge, creativity, and innovation in learning about STEM topics during the 13th annual 4-H STEM Challenge. Formerly known as 4-H National Youth Science Day, this year's STEM Challenge, Mars Base Camp, will explore the theme of sending humans on a mission to Mars.

With this year's launch of the NASA Perseverance Rover to Mars, the 4-H STEM Challenge will encourage young people to take an interest in STEM through fundamental concepts in space exploration and beyond. The National 4-H Council and Virginia Cooperative Extension, with support from Google, designed four unique hands-on activities to get kids and teens to explore computer science, space agriculture, and more.

"The Mars Base Camp theme is the perfect topic to engage young people and encourage them to explore a wide range of exciting subject areas related to STEM, in addition to the theme of outer space" said Erika Bonnett from Virginia Cooperative Extension. "Cooperative Extension and the nation's land grant universities are perfectly positioned to develop researched backed curriculum and activities that help young people learn in creative ways. These activities inspire kids to get hands-on and think about the big problems that today's top scientists and engineers are working on."

As young people, parents, and educators continue to look for new and creative ways to stay engaged during the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 4-H STEM Challenge has adapted to ensure that young people everywhere, regardless of internet connectivity or family resources, have access to STEM Challenge kits which includes online and offline activities.

Today, fifty-five million kids face a widening opportunity gap in America, hindering them from having equal access to reach their full potential. In addition, 12 million kids lack access to reliable broadband internet resources. Through the 4-H STEM Challenge, young people will gain invaluable access to STEM learning opportunities supporting the organization's efforts to eliminate the opportunity gap and create better, brighter futures for all youth today.

"For more than a decade, we've engaged young people in STEM opportunities through our 4-H STEM Challenge initiative because early exposure and access can lead to a brighter future academically and professionally. Today, our efforts are even more important due to the continued impact of the pandemic, digital divide, and widening opportunity gap affecting young people," said Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO, National 4H Council. "With the support of our partners, kids can continue gaining essential STEM skills despite these challenging times. We believe STEM education plays a critical role in preparing young people for future success and through the STEM Challenge young people are exposed to a new world of possibilities."

To kick off this year's 4-H STEM Challenge, Bill Nye (popularly known as the Science Guy), CEO of The Planetary Society, will serve as the 4-H STEM Challenge Ambassador, encouraging millions of young people across the U.S. to explore STEM and hands-on learning opportunities, no matter the circumstances they face.

"I'm working to get people, especially students, excited about science and engineering. Science is how we have come to know nature. It's how we've built the amazing technology we have today, and it's how we feed 7.7 billion people," said Bill Nye. "This year's STEM Challenge will expose young people to fundamental ideas in science in hopes of encouraging a lifetime of exploration. I'm delighted to partner with 4-H and inspire the next generation of STEM leaders and decision-makers who will ultimately shape our future." Nye also had the opportunity to surprise four 4-H youth as the special guest host for a virtual Mars Base Camp Trivia Challenge. The 4-H youth, who are STEM leaders in their communities, were each awarded a $2,000 grant to support their 4-H Club's STEM programming.

Beginning October 1st, youth are invited to participate in the STEM Challenge, as well as other planned virtual events. For information about how to get involved, visit https://4-h.org/parents/4-h-stem-challenge/.

The 2020 4H STEM Challenge was developed with support from Google and our national partners Bayer, Toyota, and the United States Air Force.

SOURCE National 4-H Council

Related Links

http://www.4-h.org


HUNTSVILLE, Ala., Sept. 30, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- On Sept. 30, NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, virtually presented its Industry & Advocate Awards for fiscal year 2020. The awards reflect leadership in the aerospace business community and sustained achievement in service to Marshall and to NASA's overarching mission.

This year's recipients are:

Northrop Grumman Innovation Systems Inc. was named Marshall's Large Business Prime Contractor of the Year for support of the Marshall Small Business Subcontracting Program under the Space Launch System Booster Element Contract.

Large Business Prime Contractor of the Year for support of the Marshall Small Business Subcontracting Program under the Space Launch System Booster Element Contract. Bastion Technologies Inc. was named Marshall's Small Business Prime contractor of the Year for support of Marshall's Safety and Mission Assurance Directorate under the Safety and Mission Assurance Services Contract.

Small Business Prime contractor of the Year for support of Safety and Mission Assurance Directorate under the Safety and Mission Assurance Services Contract. ION Corporation was named Marshall's Small Business Subcontractor of the Year for subcontracting support to The Boeing Company under the Space Launch System Stages Contract.

Small Business Subcontractor of the Year for subcontracting support to The Boeing Company under the Space Launch System Stages Contract. Robert M. Dallas , Lisa C. Grady , Jaquilla E. White , and Maranda B. McCord were named Procurement Team of the Year for their participation on the 2020 Procurement Small Business Action Team.

, , , and were named Procurement Team of the Year for their participation on the 2020 Procurement Small Business Action Team. R. Daryl Woods , Donald G. Chavers , Tyler C. Cochran , Lakeisha V. Hawkins , and Joshua B. Stiles were named Program Team of the Year for their collaboration with the small business community having an interest in procurement opportunities associated with the Human Lunar Landing System Program.

, , , , and were named Program Team of the Year for their collaboration with the small business community having an interest in procurement opportunities associated with the Human Lunar Landing System Program. Individual awards included: Small Business Technical Advisor of the Year, Clyde S. Jones ; Technical Person of the Year, Dwight L. Mosby ; Small Business Program Leadership Award, JoAnn V. Belt and Curtis O. Taylor .

; Technical Person of the Year, ; Small Business Program Leadership Award, and . Small Business Prime Contractor Excellence Awards were presented to Acuity Edge, Inc.; All Points Logistics LLC; Linc Research, Inc.; and Manufacturing Technical Solutions, Inc.

Small Business Subcontractor Excellence Awards were presented to 4M Research, Inc.; Canvas, Inc.; Foremaster Tool; Link Research, Inc.; Theonics, Inc.; and Seabrook Solutions, LLC.

Also announced at the event, Marshall Space Flight Center was awarded the FY2019 Small Business Administrator's Cup, an agency award for managing the most effective small business program. The presentation was made during the industry awards ceremony. It is the sixth time since the award was established in 2008 that Marshall has earned the prestigious prize.

NASA civil service employees nominate eligible individuals and organizations for awards. A panel of NASA business procurement and technical officials evaluates each nominee's business practices, innovative processes, adoption of new technologies and their overall contributions to NASA's mission and the agency's Small Business Program.

Award recipients in the categories of Large and Small Business Prime Contractors of the Year, Small Business Subcontractor of the Year and Procurement Team or Person, Technical, Small Business Technical Coordinator/Technical Advisor and Program Person or Team of the Year become candidates for agency-level Small Business Industry Awards.

Footage of the virtual awards ceremony is available here.

For more information about doing business with Marshall, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/marshall/about/business.html

For more information about NASA's Office of Small Business Programs, visit:

http://osbp.nasa.gov

SOURCE NASA

Related Links

http://www.nasa.gov


By Express News Service

KOLKATA: Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday hit out at the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the Hathras incident saying the safety of Dalits and daughters has become a joke under Modis regime.

Expressing her condolence to the family of the teenage victim, Mamata accused the BJP of doing vote bank politics with lofty promises.

"Two inhuman crimes in two consecutive days! Clearly safety of Dalits & our daughters has become a joke in this country under @narendramodi jis regime! @BJP4India Govt. is threatening every Dalit life in the country! #ModiSpeakUp4Dalits," Mamata tweeted.

Slamming the Prime Minister, Mamata wrote on her Twitter handle, "Atrocities against women in UP don't seem to stop under @myogiadityanath's rule. @narendramodi ji, your failure to protect our daughters makes each and everyone of us afraid of the future. You can not fool the nation with your flamboyance anymore!"

The Bengal CM further tweeted: "Have no words to condemn the barbaric & shameful incident at Hathras involving a young Dalit girl. My deepest condolences to the family. More shameful is the forceful cremation without the familys presence or conse
Businesses battered by the coronavirus pandemic could be thrown a financial lifeline in next Tuesdays federal budget through a temporary tax break to enable them to stay afloat until they turn a profit.

The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age can reveal the Morrison government is considering mimicking a policy introduced across the world that enables businesses of all sizes to claim back some of the tax paid pre-COVID to offset losses incurred during the current recession.

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has pledged to help businesses get through the COVID-19 recession. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer

As the federal government puts the finishing touches to the budget, which is expected to show a deficit of at least $200 billion, it has been looking at reintroducing the loss carry-back provision as a way to protect hundreds of thousands of Australians employed by businesses which will register a loss this financial year.

The world's leading economies have been encouraged by the OECD to put in place temporary loss carry-back provisions in a bid to reduce the damage wrought upon usually profitable companies.
But Bush offers voters a contrarian voice in a Democratic Party that needs it. She has called out House Speaker Michael Madigan on ethics reform and was among the first to say he should step down in light of the ComEd scandal. She pushed for the need for an independent inspector general and a probe into Madigans state office and political operations where allegations of sexual harassment surfaced. She didnt support the current Senate president, Don Harmon, like many of her colleagues, in his matchup with Sen. Kimberly Lightford for the president position, and she has worked with the GOP on redistricting reform. She also has split from her party by voting down unbalanced budgets. Kasperski is a war hero and a strong candidate who lists property tax relief a top priority. We hope he sticks around in politics. But Democrats need status quo-agitators such as Bush within their ranks. She is endorsed this time.
COLUMBUS  Welcome back, battleground Ohio.

Ohio was considered a solid GOP state by many after it gave Donald Trump an 8-point victory in 2016 and chose Republicans for all statewide executive offices in 2018. But now, one of the nation's most respected political prognosticators has officially moved the Buckeye State into "toss-up" status for the 2020 presidential race.

As a seeming confirmation, the campaigns of both former Vice President Joe Biden and President Donald Trump are launching major TV ad buys next week as Ohioans begin early voting.

Yes, that means Ohioans screens are going to be filled with campaign ads just like in previous election cycles when the battleground status of Ohio was never in doubt.

In this combination of file photos, former Vice President Joe Biden speaks in Wilmington, Del., on March 12, 2020, left, and President Donald Trump speaks at the White House in Washington on April 5, 2020.

The change, said Larry Sabato, director of the University of Virginia's Center for Politics, comes "both because of the broad improvements Biden has made with white voters in many different places and also because of more recent polling showing the presidential race very competitive in each state. ... Operatives on both sides in Ohio have found the president struggling mightily in key suburban areas."

Biden might be "turning back the clock slightly to 2012," with Midwestern states such as Ohio and Iowa "better targets than those emerging battlefields of the Sun Belt."

Other political gurus are finding the same thing. "Biden is winning back some of the Obama-Trump white working-class voters who flocked to Trump four years ago," said Nate Silver in FiveThirtyEight.com.

Silver acknowledged fears of Biden backers that Trump could again win the Electoral College despite losing the popular vote, and that there could be a large polling error in Trumps favor.

"Biden is only truly safe to win the Electoral College once he has a popular vote margin of 5 points or more. But, hes a fairly heavy favorite with a 3- to 5-point margin, and has roughly break-even odds with a 2- to 3-point margin," Silver said.

Story continues

Read more: Joe Biden launches whistle-stop tour in Cleveland after ugly debate with Donald Trump

But Biden needs a cushion in the polls to assure victory: "A 7-point Biden lead on Election Day could, indeed, turn into a 2-point Biden popular vote win where Trump narrowly wins the Electoral College."

For the first time, Sabato is projecting Biden with at least 270 electoral votes, the number needed to win. Other toss-up states are Florida, Iowa, Arizona and North Carolina.

Although Biden had been airing ads in Toledo and Youngstown stations while Trump remains dark, the Democrat's commercials now will appear on outlets in Columbus, Cleveland and Cincinnati. Trump has not aired ads in Ohio for several weeks, although viewers may see national ads from both candidates.

The wind is at Joe Bidens back in Ohio, said Toni Webb, the Biden campaign's Ohio director. "For two days, Joe Biden spoke directly with hardworking families who have been betrayed and lied to by President Trump  and who have lost jobs, health care, and even the communities they love as a result.

Daniel Lusheck, spokesman for Trump's Ohio campaign, took issue with the latest projection and Biden's Ohio strategy.

"Crystal Ball may be well on its way to having the worst political predictions of 2020, as well as 2016, and Joe Biden is welcome to waste money in the Buckeye State because it will never make up for his vote for NAFTA and betrayal of Ohio workers," Lusheck said.

Read more: Ohio Democrats dominating absentee ballot requests, possibly creating election night angst

During a coronavirus briefing Tuesday, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine responded to a question about the presidential race.

"I never bought into this argument that Ohio's become a Republican state. I mean, Ohio's a swing state," the governor said. "I think (Trump's) going to win this time in Ohio. I think it will be close, but I think he will win.

"But sure, we'll see. Ohio is certainly in play."

Read more: How to motivate Ohio voters? Trump making visits, Biden running ads

Biden is planning three different ads starting Tuesday: Benefits, What It Means to Serve and New Start, which tells viewers "this is our chance to put the darkness of the past four years behind us."

Biden made a pair of Ohio appearances Wednesday during an old-school whistle-stop train tour in Cleveland, Alliance and western Pennsylvania.

I felt good about the whole day," he told reporters at the final stop. "I felt good about what's happened the last couple days, and it looks like based on, not our polling, independent polling, that we're making  we're picking up an awful lot of the folks who used to be Democrats -- theyre coming back home.

drowland@dispatch.com; @darreldrowland

Screenshot of Joe Biden ad called "Benefits" that Ohioans will start seeing Tuesday, when early voting begins

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Ohio now rated a 'toss-up' state as both campaigns plan major TV ads
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin are still working on a compromise stimulus bill to help Americans cope with the coronavirus crisis.

In an interview with Fox Business host Lou Dobbs on Wednesday, Mnuchin said second $1,200 stimulus checks that are "similar" to the first payments will be in the next package.

Congress authorized the first set of one-time payments when it passed the CARES Act in March. Those checks included up to $1,200 per individual or $2,400 per married couple filing jointly, plus $500 per child under age 17.

The payments were targeted at low- to middle-income Americans. Full payments went to individuals with adjusted gross income up to $75,000, head of household filers who made up to $112,500, and married couples filing jointly with up to $150,000.

More from Your Money Mindset:

New $2.2 trillion bill includes second round of $1,200 stimulus checks

Revised stimulus bill pushes for $600 in extra weekly unemployment

How to manage your emotions while investing through the pandemic

The amount of the checks was reduced for income above those thresholds and phased out completely for individuals with adjusted gross income over $99,000, heads of household filers with $136,500 and married couples with more than $198,000.

Individuals and families with little to no income were also eligible.

In the interview, Mnuchin did not elaborate on the specific terms of the next checks.

The first stimulus checks came with conditions to qualify, including the stipulation that recipients must be a U.S. citizen or hold resident alien status in order to be eligible.
COVID-19 cases in the Houston area increased by more than 600 between Tuesday and Wednesday, according to a Houston Chronicle analysis.

Cases in the Houston region increased by 612, bringing the total to 197,850. In Harris County alone, cases increased by 366 to 142,681.

Deaths here increased by 16, bringing the total to 3,456 people who have died from the virus.

The Houston region's positivity rate hovered around 6.31 percent.

Statewide, cases increased by 5,252 to 774,477, according to the newspaper. Deaths statewide increased by 105 to 15,989.

In other news, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention extended its ban on cruise ship sailing through the end of October, according to ABC13's Jeff Ehling. However, some cruise lines have submitted plans to the CDC that they hope will allow them to set sail soon.

NOTE: The numbers included in this report represent a one-day change in data from Tuesday, Sept. 29 through Wednesday, Sept. 30. It is still unclear how many of the state's new cases can be attributed to jail inmates from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. The Houston Chronicle's analysis of COVID-19 case data now includes probable and pending cases. This change is based on interviews with multiple public health officials and epidemiologists, as well as in line with CDC guidelines on reporting. DSHS is now using death certificate data for its counts of COVID deaths, leading some Texas counties to have dramatically higher counts than others and some counties to have higher numbers than state figures.
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Mr. Legro was born in Muskogee, Okla., and began practicing law in Los Angeles in 1966 after having served as a captain in the Marine Corps. He was in Washington for two years as an EPA officer in the 1970s, then returned to the nations capital in 1982. He was affiliated with Verner, Liipfert and its successor law firms.
"The Premier Award for Client Satisfaction is one we are very proud and honored to receive," says Ray Kowalik, chairman and CEO, Burns & McDonnell. "This award exemplifies our mission of Making Our Clients Successful and validates the work we do to deliver a best-in-class client experience."

To be eligible for this year's award, firms participated in a client survey process through PSMJ's partner, Client Savvy, to measure client satisfaction in several key areas including responsiveness, helpfulness, quality, accuracy, schedule, budget and scope and fees. Results were benchmarked using quality of feedback on these performance indicators as well as number of clients completing the survey.

"Only the best of the best architecture and engineering firms can boast of winning the Premier Award for Client Satisfaction," says PSMJ Resources Founder and CEO Frank A. Stasiowski, FAIA. "In any economy, this industry deals with fee pushback and perceived commoditization of services, so delivering a best-in-class client experience is one of the best ways to differentiate a firm."

PSMJ will honor the 21 firms named as this year's award winners Oct. 14-16 during the virtual A/E/C THRIVE 2020: The Growth, Profit, and Success Summit for A/E/C Firm Leaders.

For photos and support materials, please visit our MEDIA KIT.

About Burns & McDonnell

Burns & McDonnell is a family of companies bringing together an unmatched team of 7,600 engineers, construction professionals, architects, planners, technologists and scientists to design and build our critical infrastructure. With an integrated construction and design mindset, we offer full-service capabilities with more than 55 offices, globally. Founded in 1898, Burns & McDonnell is a 100% employee-owned company and proud to be on Fortune's 2020 list of 100 Best Companies to Work For. Learn how we are on call through it all.

Contact: Anna Pachta, Burns & McDonnell

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Artist and sculptor Delphine Boel is on the cusp of officially becoming a Belgian princess after a Brussels court ruled in her favor Thursday in a decades-old royal paternity scandal pitting her against former King Albert II.

Her lawyer, Alain de Jonghe, confirmed in a telephone interview with The Associated Press that the court gave his client full satisfaction, recognizing her as the former monarchs daughter. A statement from her team of lawyers said she would be able to be called princess Delphine of Saxe Coburg," and will be set on the same footing as her royal brothers and sisters.

The breakthrough ruling came a month earlier than expected, but not a moment too soon for the 52-year-old Boel.

The legal victory will never replace the love of a father but it provides a feeling of justice," her lawyers said in the statement issued after the ruling.

The former king, whose son Philippe is the reigning monarch, could still make an ultimate legal appeal at the Court of Cassation. A phone call and email to the royal palace late Thursday were not immediately answered.

Such a ruling had been in the offing since King Albert decided in January to no longer fight a claim that he is the father of Boel, after he finally agreed to have a DNA test and received the results. His lawyers had said that scientific conclusions indicate that he is the biological father of Mrs. Delphine Boel.

Rumors about Albert and Boels mother, the aristocratic wife of a well-heeled industrialist, had been around for years. But the news that the king might have had a child with her broke into the open when a biography of Alberts wife, Queen Paola, was published in 1999.

In his Christmas message to the nation that year, King Albert alluded to a past infidelity and said he and Queen Paola lived through a crisis in the late 1960s that almost wrecked their marriage, but that a long while ago they overcame their marital problems.

Six years ago, Boel, who bears a striking resemblance to certain members of the royal family, opened court proceedings to prove that Albert is her father.

The lawyers said Thursday that the ruling should provide encouragement to numerous children that had to go through the same ordeal."

Boel has always said that she brought the paternity case because she was angry at having been cold-shouldered by the royal family.

Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor
The Palaszczuk government has finally struck a deal with Adani for royalties from its controversial $2 billion Carmichael mine, days before the government goes into caretaker mode before the October election.

Treasurer Cameron Dick confirmed the government "settled terms for a royalty agreement" this week, more than one year after it was originally intended to be finalised.

Equipment arrives to remove the overburden from Adani's Carmichael coal mine in central Queensland in July. Credit:Cameron Laird

"I can assure you that Adani will pay every dollar in royalties that they have to pay to the people of Queensland and the taxpayers of Queensland, with interest," he said.

"That is absolutely locked in now and that is something we have now concluded as a government."
Hundreds of small earthquakes continue to rattle southern California, sending light shaking into San Diego County, as experts raise the odds that a much larger tremor could strike in the coming days.

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported that hundreds of earthquakes had been reported by Wednesday night in the Salton Trough near Westmorland and more than a dozen more sizeable earthquakes on Thursday.

The swarm has registered only a few 4.5 magnitude earthquakes with many of the tremors falling below 3.0 magnitude. The largest so far was a magnitude 4.9.

The USGS has now listed the possibly of a magnitude 7 or higher earthquake hitting in the next few days as one in 300 as a result of the recent activity.

Hundreds of earthquakes swarm southern California raising fears that a larger one is coming. The map above shows the large number of quakes that have hit the area in the past day

The U.S. Geological Survey shared a map showing the location of previous swarms

Tectonic plates are seen north of the Salton Sea where the current swarm is hitting

'In just 2.5hr Westmorland swarm has had 45 quakes of M3.0. One of the largest swarms we have had in the Imperial Valley - and it is historically the most active swarms in SoCal,' seismologist Dr Lucy Jones wrote on Twitter on Wednesday night.

The agency had recorded at least 240 quakes by that point.

Jones warned, however, that there was no reason to panic about a larger quake caused by the string of smaller ones as there are no large fault lines near the Imperial Valley line.

'Quakes make other quakes more likely, but only nearby. Today's M4.9 fault is ~2 miles across, so it can affect quakes within ~5 miles,' she wrote.

'The only faults nearby are small. In other words, there is no scientific reason to predict a big quake in another location today.

'There is an increased risk at the same location that has already had quakes. More M3s tonight are very likely. A M5 is possible. But only at the same location. A M5 in Imperial County has no impact in San Diego, Los Angeles, or San Francisco. Swarms in Imperial Co are normal,' Jones added.

The swarm of earthquakes began on September 30 in the Brawley seismic zone. The area is described as one of diffuse seismic activity between the San Andreas fault in the north and the Imperial fault to the south.

There were previous swarms seen there, including the 1981 Westmorland swarm, which included a M5.8 earthquake, and the 2012 Brawley swarm, which included a M5.4 earthquake.

The first swarm of 30 earthquakes rattled the area for one hour starting at 4pm Wednesday.

USGS data shows that the first quake, a 3.0, hit near Westmorland, and that another 27 followed in the same area.

The cluster of quakes can be seen to the bottom right beneath the Salton Sea

Seismologist Dr Lucy Jones said there is no reason to fear a larger quake on the way

More than half were magnitude 3.0 or greater, the agency said. Michigan Tech reports that between 2.5 and 5.4 magnitude are often felt but rarely cause much damage.

The largest felt was a 4.9 magnitude quake which struck at 5.31pm.

According to the USGS, there is a 90 percent change that the rate of earthquakes in the swarm will decrease over the next 7 days.

Localized damage could be caused to weak structures if they reach as high as magnitude 5.4 but many will range around magnitude 3.0, which may be felt by people close to the epicenters.

The second most likely scenario is that a larger earthquake (magnitude 5.5 to 6.9) could occur within the next 7 days.

The agency gives a ten percent chance of this occurring.

'Earthquakes of this size could cause damage around the area close to the earthquakes that have already occurred and would be followed by aftershocks that would increase the number of smaller earthquakes per day,' they said.

'This scenario occurred in a previous swarm in the area  in 1981, when a swarm in this region included a magnitude 5.8 earthquake.'

The USGS warned Thursday that the swarm of earthquakes had continued

The agency said, however, that the possibility of a larger quake was still low

They noted that swarms such as this have occurred before in the area without a larger quake

The least likely scenario is that a much larger earthquake (magnitude 7 or higher) could occur within the next 7 days.

'The ongoing swarm could trigger an earthquake significantly larger than the M4.9 that occurred on the 30 September (i.e., M7.0 and above),' they warned.

'While this is a very small probability, if such an earthquake were to occur, it would have serious impacts on communities nearby and would be followed by aftershocks that would increase the number of smaller earthquakes per day.'

The agency added that in a typical week, there is approximately a 1 in 3000 chance of a magnitude 7+ earthquake in the vicinity of this swarm but the current probability of larger earthquakes in this region is significantly greater than usual  about 1 in 300.

The USGS said they will continue to update as the data changes but the swarm already appears to be decreasing in activity.

There were four magnitude 3 earthquakes recorded in the first seven hours of Thursday compared to 40 magnitude 3 and larger earthquakes recorded in the last 7 hours of Wednesday.

Earlier in the week, three small tremors rattled Milpitas on Tuesday for the second time in three days.

The USGS reported that a 2.7 magnitude earthquake with a depth of 4.5km hit Milpitas around 8.16am Tuesday morning.

Ten minutes later, a 2.9 magnitude tremor with a depth of 4km hit the same area.

The third quake struck around 9.02am with a magnitude of 3.3 and a depth of 4.3km.

Dozens of people in Fremont, Milpitas and San Jose felt the quakes, which occurred on the Calaveras fault system.

Last weekend, two small tremors also struck Milpitas.

According to the USGS, a 3.4-magnitude quake with a depth of 5.3km hit around 3.54pm on Sunday. Hours later at 10.16pm, another 3.4-magnitude quake hit the area.

Hundreds of earthquakes were registered this week in the Salton Trough, pictured

And on September 19, a magnitude 4.6 earthquake struck Southern California.

The earthquake hit around 11.40pm, about 2 miles outside of South El Monte, near Los Angeles, the agency reported. Preliminary reports indicate it was about 11 miles deep.

There were also about 20 earthquakes reported in August alone.

Meanwhile, California is also dealing with wildfires that have devoured parts of the state amid unseasonably hot and dry weather.

High winds that spread new fires this week in the Napa and Sonoma wine country and in a far northern area of the state were reduced to breezes, but vegetation remained ripe for burning in high temperatures amid very low humidity.

The National Weather Service said the weather conditions would last for several days due to high pressure centered over the state.

Heat advisories were in effect or pending along about three-quarters of the California coast and many areas had poor air quality due to smoke.

Numerous studies in recent years have linked bigger wildfires in America to global warming from the burning of coal, oil and gas, especially because climate change has made California much drier. A drier California means plants are more flammable.

About 70,000 people were under evacuation orders in the wine region north of San Francisco where the Glass Fire has incinerated dozens of homes along with winery installations and other buildings.
An Army officer has been left so outraged by families failing to clean after themselves at their garrison that he has threatened to kick them out.

Lieutenant colonel Paul Brazier told residents that the garrison mess is the worst he's witnessed in his entire 37-year career and has warned he will evict tenants, regardless of whether theyre Military or Civilian.

He has been left so appalled by the amount of rubbish left around Warminster Garrison, Wiltshire, he's sent out a stark warning to all residents saying he will no longer put up with it.

Launching 'Operation Womble', he penned: 'I cannot believe that any of you are content with the current situation.

'I have the authority to revoke your licence to occupy your accommodation and if necessary I will.'

Fuming Lt Col Paul Brazier (pictured) has threatened to kick out tenants from Warminster Garrison, Wiltshire unless they start to clean up their act

To make his message crystal clear the fuming officer has sent out letters to residents reminding them that under their rental agreement they are responsible for the upkeep of the area.

In it he's written: 'Regardless of you being military or civilian, I have the authority to revoke your licence to occupy your accommodation and if necessary I will.

'Yesterday I walked around your estate (Pepper Place, Firbank, Goodwin, Holdsworth etc) and was appalled by the amount of rubbish and litter that is strewn around the estate.

'It is by far the worst I have seen in 37 years of Service.

'This is your estate and as part of your licence to occupy Service Families Accommodation you are expected to maintain a clean-living environment.

'Between now and the 15th October 2020 there will be a series of initiatives to clean up your estate culminating in an estate wide litter sweep called Operation WOMBLE.

This letter was sent out to all the residents living in the Warminster Garrison urging them to take action and clear up their rubbish

'These will be parades and for the Military an order (regardless of your Chain of Command) from the Garrison Head of Establishment.

'You might be sitting in your house reading this letter thinking 'whatever'. Let me remind you that regardless of you being Military or Civilian I have the authority to revoke your licence to occupy your accommodation and if necessary, I will.

'I am aware that it is a small minority that have produced this problem and in fact some of these people may have already left the estate, but I will take you as the majority to sort this out.

'I cannot believe that any of you are content with the current situation.

'May I suggest that you start today, clearing around your immediate area, look at your communal areas, it is easily rectified. This is not somebody else's problem.'

Residents living in Warminster Garrison (pictured) have been warned to clean up their act or face eviction

The houses in the Warminster Garrison are occupied by service families from 1st Battalion the Yorkshire Regiment, civilian contractors and MoD staff.

The Sun reported Lt Col Brazier is expecting tenants to take swift action and has ordered an 'estate-wide litter sweep called Operation Womble'.

Residents have until October 15 to get their act together.
Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina, one of two Black Republicans in Congress, suggested that perhaps Mr. Trump misspoke and urged him to fix his error. But Mr. Scott also allowed, If he doesnt correct it, I guess he didnt misspeak.

Mr. Trump, in a brief encounter with reporters Wednesday afternoon, tried to contain the damage while stopping well short of a full reversal of his stance. Reprising a ploy familiar from past controversies, Mr. Trump insisted he did not know anything about the group, though he made no suggestion to that effect during the debate.

I dont know who the Proud Boys are, Mr. Trump said. I mean, youll have to give me a definition because I really dont know who they are. I can only say they have to stand down, let law enforcement do their work.

Mr. Trump also claimed he had always denounced any form of white supremacist ideology, even though he has repeatedly resisted denouncing specific extremist figures and has regularly echoed the rhetoric of racist and far-right organizations.

The way he handled the question about the Proud Boys echoed one of his most brazen evasions over right-wing racism from the 2016 campaign: When the former Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke supported his candidacy, Mr. Trump at first declined to explicitly disavow the support and said he did not know who Mr. Duke was.

In addition to his comments about the Proud Boys during the debate, Mr. Trump again attacked the legitimacy of the election, floating conspiracy theories about mail-in voting and encouraging his supporters to police polling places on Election Day. There was no sign that he had been swayed by Republican criticism of his past refusals to commit to a peaceful transfer of power.
Healthcare consulting firm expands its reach to Europe and Asia

MADISON, Wisconsin, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Nordic, a top-rated healthcare consulting firm, announced its acquisition of Tasman Global, a healthcare IT consulting company headquartered in the Netherlands with offices throughout Europe and Asia. Tasman will continue to operate and serve customers under its brand as part of Nordic.

"Nordic is honored to welcome Tasman to our family of companies," said Nordic CEO, Jim Costanzo. "With this acquisition, we are executing our strategy of continued global growth and diversification. The addition of Tasman's world-class health IT expertise enables us to expand our reach and provide solutions for the challenges healthcare organizations are experiencing in Europe and Asia."

"Tasman is excited to join Nordic, an industry leader we've long respected for their excellence in client support and their innovative service offerings," said Adrienne Flatland, Tasman Founder and CEO. "We share Nordic's passion for transforming healthcare. As part of Nordic, we look forward to continuing to deliver the highest quality support to the health systems we serve wherever they are on their EHR journeys."

Tasman, which Flatland founded in 2015 and will continue to lead, specializes in EHR consulting services, including implementation support, optimization, and application managed services, as well as strategic advisory consulting and project management. These offerings align with Nordic's portfolio of consulting solutions, which, in combination with its Canadian entity, Healthtech, are provided to customers across North America. The combined entity will now serve nearly 300 healthcare organizations globally.

Both Healthtech and Tasman have experience working with universal healthcare environments in Canada, the U.K., and Europe. Nordic will leverage that expertise to assist clients operating in similar environments to enable better healthcare through the use of technology.

Tasman is Nordic's third acquisition in recent years. In addition to its acquisition of Healthtech in 2019, Canada's leading strategic healthcare IT consulting firm, led by its President Terri LeFort, Nordic acquired the revenue cycle transformation practice of The Claro Group in 2018, complementing Nordic's offerings with robust revenue cycle solutions for its healthcare customers.

About Nordic Consulting

Nordic is a top-rated healthcare consulting firm that guides organizations to a stronger business with better patient outcomes. It provides health IT staffing, advisory consulting, and managed services, leading clients smoothly from strategy through to execution. Founded in 2010 as an EHR staff augmentation firm, Nordic's solutions have expanded over time to help clients overcome their evolving healthcare-related challenges. Today, Nordic and its family of healthcare consulting companies, Healthtech and Tasman Global, partner with nearly 300 clients across the globe, helping them deliver higher quality care at a lower cost. To learn more, please visit nordicwi.com.

Press Contact :Michelle Lichte, EVP, Client Partnerships | (608) 268-6900 | michelle.lichte@nordicwi.com

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WASHINGTON  The Trump administration can move forward with its lawsuit against former national security adviser John Bolton over his tell-all book, a judge ruled Thursday in denying a request to dismiss the complaint.

The Justice Department alleges that Boltons book, The Room Where It Happened, contains classified information, and the government sued in June to try to prevent the release. Though the book was published, a suit accusing Bolton of breaking agreements with the government by disclosing classified information and by failing to complete a required pre-publication review can proceed, U.S District Judge Royce Lamberth said in a 27-page opinion.

The Justice Department, the judge wrote, plausibly pleads that Bolton breached those obligations.

Charles Cooper, Boltons lawyer, said in an email that the ruling, which we are still studying, means that the case will now move forward to the phase in which the parties will develop and present their evidence.

The book, which details Boltons 17 months as Trumps national security adviser, contains descriptions of Trumps conversations with foreign leaders that could be seen as politically damaging to the president. Those include accounts that Trump tied providing military aid to Ukraine to that countrys willingness to conduct investigations into Democratic rival Joe Biden and Bidens son Hunter, and that Trump asked Chinas President Xi Jinping to help his reelection prospects.

Lamberth in June denied the governments request for an injunction to block the book from being published, given that thousands of copies had already been distributed. But in the same order, he also scolded Bolton for moving ahead with the books publication without waiting for formal, written authorization that the book had been cleared.

His decision Thursday clears the way for the Justice Departments suit to move forward, including the governments efforts to seize proceeds from the book. The judge said the government had reasonably shown that Bolton disclosed classified information without first confirming that it was unclassified.

Even if Bolton operated out of an abundance of caution in submitting his manuscript for review, the very existence of his caution leads to a fair inference that Bolton was less than certain as to the status of the manuscript, Lamberth wrote. And the allegation that classified material was actually present in the manuscript makes it more likely that Bolton harbored doubts as to whether everything in his manuscript was unclassified.

A Justice Department spokeswoman said the department was pleased with the ruling.

Boltons lawyers have maintained that he worked for months with a White House career official, Ellen Knight, to ensure that the manuscript was carefully screened for classified information, and that Knight concluded that review in April by determining that the book was free of such material. But White House officials later conducted a second review that they said identified classified information still in the book.

The case took a notable turn last week when a lawyer for Knight submitted a statement that said that after Knight had advised National Security Council lawyers that she intended to clear the book for publication, she was told to take no action and to tell Bolton that the process was ongoing.

Weeks later, according to the statement, she learned that a White House official who she said had no previous classification experience had been instructed to conduct a second review of the manuscript.

That official, Michael Ellis, flagged hundreds of passages that he believed were still classified. Knight disagreed with that conclusion and considered the re-review to be fundamentally flawed, according to the filing.
In fact, on Sept. 26, the network announced that it would spend at least $10 million in support of Barretts Supreme Court nomination.

Along similar lines, Casey Mattox, vice president for legal and judicial strategy at Americans for Prosperity, the dominant group within the Koch family network  which also does not disclose its donors  told CNBC that

A full scale campaign is now underway to mobilize our grass roots activists across the country to drive the confirmation of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the high court.

Not to be outdone, the United States Chamber of Commerce told Axios that it will be organizing members and others through social media to lobby Congress on Barretts behalf. In an effort to pressure moderate and centrist Democratic senators who want to appear pro-business, the Chamber will use the vote on Barrett in their public ratings of members of Congress.

You have to draw the conclusion that the court is the least democratic of all institutions, Whitehouse told me.

In a Sept. 25 op-ed in The Washington Post, Shifting from a 5-4 to a 6-3 Supreme Court majority could be seismic, Leah Litman, a law professor at the University of Michigan, and Melissa Murray of N.Y.U., made the case that with the addition of a sixth member,

the courts conservative bloc will be able to afford to lose a vote and still prevail, reducing the need for narrower decisions, compromise and forbearance.

They pointed out with Barrett on the court it will be easier to find five potential votes to reverse Roe v Wade, the key 1973 abortion decision and that

Even if Roe isnt immediately overturned, a stronger conservative majority could let stand other abortion restrictions that come before the court, including bans on certain procedures or abortion after 12 weeks of pregnancy.

The court, in Shelby County v. Holder, has already severely weakened the 1965 Voting Rights Act, Litman and Murray noted, and a strengthened conservative majority could go a step farther and

invalidate what remains of the act, including Section 2, which provides for restrictive voting laws to be struck if they result in discrimination, with or without intent.

The 6-3 court, they write,

would be poised to exempt religious objectors from complying with statutes that prohibit discrimination against racial minorities, women, the disabled, religious minorities and the LGBT community.

In addition, such a reconfigured court would likely challenge race-conscious university admissions policies.

In an email, Litman described some of the intellectual jujitsu the conservative bloc will have to resort to in order to achieve these goals:

To overturn Roe v. Wade, the majority would have to explain why overruling the decision is consistent with stare decisis. Justice Thomas and Judge Barrett have written about how stare decisis itself can violate the Constitution and Justice Gorsuch has been critical of stare decisis, a sign that they are more inclined to overrule decisions with which they disagree, since they think the legal rule that compels them to do otherwise is wrong.

If the conservative bloc seeks to declare legislation mandating contraception coverage unconstitutional, Litman continued, it would have to argue that

the mandate violates the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (a statute that prohibits substantially burdening religious practices through anything besides the least restrictive means) or the First Amendments free exercise clause.

If, in turn, the conservatives choose to argue that the mandate violates the First Amendment, Litman wrote in her email,

the Court would have to overrule Employment Division v. Smith, which held that generally applicable statutes (statutes that dont single out particular religions) are generally constitutional. But Gorsuch, Alito, Thomas and Kavanaugh have all indicated they would be inclined to revisit that decision, and Judge Barrett has criticized it as well.

Some members of the court, Litman noted, have shown interest

in declaring that laws that prohibit policies with disparate impacts (policies that are selectively disadvantageous to racial minorities, but were not intended to be selectively disadvantageous) are unconstitutional.

The conservative argument is that because a

statute requires governments to take into account the racial effects of a law or policy, the law requires them to discriminate on the basis of race in violation of the equal protection clause.

All of which suggests that the most significant contribution Barrett will make to the continuing rightward shift of the court will be on stare decisis.

Ruth Marcus a Washington Post columnist, wrote on Sept. 26 that

No issue is more pivotal in considering a Supreme Court nomination than the candidates view of when to overturn a case she considers wrongly decided.

No other nominee to the court, Marcus continued,

has openly endorsed views as extreme as Barretts on the doctrine of stare decisis, the principle that the court should not lightly overrule its precedents. In a series of law review articles, Barrett makes clear that in matters of constitutional interpretation, she would not hesitate to jettison decisions with which she disagrees.

Marcus cited Barretts own writing in a 2017 Notre Dame Law Review article, Originalism and Stare Decisis:

For an originalist, the decision whether to follow erroneous precedent can be more than a matter of weighing the costs and benefits of change. At least in cases involving the interpretation of constitutional text, originalists arguably face a choice between following and departing from the law embodied in that text. While the debate about stare decisis is old, modern originalism introduced a new issue: the possibility that following precedent might sometimes be unlawful.

Laurence Tribe, a professor of law at Harvard, argued on Twitter:

Taking Amy Coney Barrett at her word makes clear that she would feel quite free to reconsider Roe v. Wade. This is a very big deal. I doubt anyone on Trumps short list would hesitate to overrule, but not everyone on the list is as transparent about it.

Other legal scholars do not believe that Barrett has taken an extreme position on stare decisis.

Barrett approaches stare decisis from a practical perspective in her extensive academic writing on the topic, Saikrishna Prakash, a law professor at the University of Virginia, told Bloomberg Law. She doesnt ever say that the courts should be overturning a bunch of precedents.
Cardiac arrest common in critically ill patients with COVID-19: Study

India

pti-Madhuri Adnal

Washington, Oct 01: Scientists have found that cardiac arrest is common among critically ill patients with COVID-19, and is associated with poor survival, particularly among those aged 80 or older, an advance that may help guide end-of-life care discussions in people severely affected by the coronavirus infection.

The researchers, including those from the University of Michigan in the US, estimated the incidence, risk factors, and outcomes associated with in-hospital cardiac arrest in critically ill adults with COVID-19. Their findings, published in the journal The BMJ, are based on data for 5,019 critically ill patients -- aged 18 years or over -- with COVID-19 admitted to the intensive care units (ICUs) at 68 hospitals across the US.

COVID-19: September accounted for 41.53 per cent of total cases in India

According to the study, 701 (14 per cent) of the patients had in-hospital cardiac arrest within 14 days of admission to the intensive care unit, of whom only 400 (57 per cent) received cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR -- an emergency life-saving procedure that is done when someone's breathing or heartbeat has stopped.

Patients who had in-hospital cardiac arrest were older, had more underlying health conditions, and were more likely to be admitted to a hospital with fewer intensive care unit beds. However, the scientists said hospital resources, staffing, expertise, strain, or other factors not captured in this study, could have had a major impact. They said patients who received CPR were younger than those who did not with only 12 per cent of those who underwent the emergency procedure survived to hospital discharge, and only seven per cent did so with normal or mildly impaired neurological status.

According to the study, most patients who survived to hospital discharge needed only a short course of CPR. Survival also differed by age, with more than a fifth of the patients younger than 45 years surviving compared with three per cent of those aged 80 or older.

COVID-19: Uttar Pradesh becomes first state to conduct 1 crore tests

Citing the limitations of the research, the scientists said they were unable to assess the quality and timeliness of CPR, and the limiting data to the first 14 days after intensive care unit admission. They said these drawbacks may have led to a potential underestimation of the true rate of cardiac arrest.

Hathras sealed ahead of Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi's visit|Oneindia News

However, the researchers said the strengths included use of high quality, detailed data for a large number of patients who were followed until death or discharge. They added that cardiac arrest is common in critically ill patients with COVID-19, and is associated with poor survival even when CPR is provided, particularly in patients aged 80 or older.

"Our study data could help inform patients, family members, and clinicians in complex decision making about patients with COVID-19 who are at risk of cardiac arrest or who have experienced cardiac arrest," the scientists concluded.
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Authorities in North Korea have begun an invasive investigation into citizens handwriting as they try to find the culprit who defaced a fence in a public gathering place with anti-government graffiti, sources in the country told RFA.

In mid-September, a sign reading Down with party officials, who live well by exploiting the people, was scrawled on the fence surrounding the Unsan county marketplace in South Pyongan province, north of the capital Pyongyang.

The local security department is in an uproar, a resident of South Pyongan, who requested anonymity for security reasons told RFAs Korean Service Monday.

Because the sign was discovered so close to the 75th anniversary of the Oct. 10, 1945 founding of the ruling Korean Workers Party, security officials concluded that the graffiti is an attempt to overthrow party officials and is an anti-government act that directly criticizes the partys central leadership, including the Highest Dignity. So, they began an investigation, the source said, using an honorific term to refer to North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un.

The source said that security officials and law enforcement agencies started checking the handwriting of local residents to try to find who wrote the slogan.

Under the orders of the security department, the leaders of the local neighborhood watch units visited each household, making both adults and children to write with pens on paper to be submitted to the security department, the source said.

They are closely comparing the graffiti and the handwriting examples, but they have yet to catch the criminal. So, they are starting a second handwriting investigation. The first time they made everyone write with their right hand, but this time, all the residents must write with their left, said the source.

The source said residents are angry that the security department seems to be more concerned with the onerous handwriting investigation than to the public sentiment that inspired the slogan.

Another source told RFA Tuesday that even people from outside the province, who just happened to be in the area at the time, were also required to submit handwriting samples.

Last week I received a quarantine permit and went to my relatives house in Unsan, South Pyongan province, said the second source, from neighboring North Pyongan province.

While I was going about my business, a local security agent called me in for questioning. The security agent asked me about when I came from North Pyongan province and made me write on a piece of paper with my right hand and left hand. After confirming that my handwriting is different from the graffiti, he let me go, said the second source, who requested anonymity to speak freely.

According to the second source, the two-week graffiti investigation has unintentionally made a hero of the unknown person who wrote the dissenting slogan.

Local residents are expressing their great satisfaction with the graffiti that says, Down with party officials, because the authorities and powerful people, including party officials, are well off, but normal residents suffer each year from different hardships, the second source said.

I know in North Pyongan province, its the same story. Apartments where the provincial party members live are always supplied with electricity, while the neighborhoods where ordinary residents live are not. So, at night you dont really see any lights, said the second source.

The second source discussed other privileges officials enjoy, such as always eating meat and rice, while ordinary citizens subsist on corn and less desirable staples.

They just live it up while the ordinary residents work hard to make a living, and the resentment of the people builds up to the point that the people start to hate the officials and the countrys leadership.

According to a 2019 report by the Boston-based analytics firm NSI, wealth inequality in North Korea is likely very high, but there is little to no primary North Korean data on the subject.

However, anecdotal information and innovative means of tracking resource flows indicate that the DPRK may be by far the most unequal society in the world, with a small elite (less than 10%) controlling virtually all wealth, leaving the rest of the population at barely or below subsistence level, the report said.

Reported by Hyemin Son for RFAs Korean Service. Translated by Leejin Jun. Written in English by Eugene Whong.
As part of the MCA-CBSA Border Collaboration Initiative (BCI), local Akwesasne artist Joseph King was recently selected by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to create a custom design for their national Orange Shirt Day campaign. The new ima...
Ukraine will record 7-9 thousand new coronavirus cases per day by the end of the year.

"In the coming months, we expect the number of cases to exceed 5,000 and reach 7,000 to 9,000 a day. In the same context, we also see an increasing number of cases in Europe," Head of the WHO Country Office in Ukraine Dr Jarno Habicht said in an interview with Suspilne TV channel.

According to him, an increase is observed in all countries as the disease has not been eradicated yet.

"In Ukraine, virus transmission in communities is still observed. We have not narrowed the transmission to cluster distribution [through social ties: family, school grade, employees of one department] which many European countries are nearing. Our researches show that only one person in four washes their hands regularly. We also see that every third person does not maintain physical distance when attending various events," the Head of the WHO Country Office in Ukraine said.

When asked about an increase in the number of coronavirus cases by the end of the year, Habicht said: "It is difficult to make an estimate. But if we start recording more than 9,000 cases a day in December, I will be concerned a little more," he summed up.

As reported, the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Ukraine reached 213,028 as of October 1, including 4,069 new cases reported over the course of the past day.

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BATON ROUGE, La.  Louisiana will get nearly $215 million in BP oil spill money for two projects planned to restore more than 4,600 acres of marsh and other habitat in the New Orleans area, Gov. John Bel Edwards said.

Work should begin next year on the projects, Edwards said in a news release Tuesday. The money is from BPs $8.8 billion settlement for natural resources damage caused by the blowout that killed 11 men and spewed more than 100 million gallons (380 million liters) of oil into the Gulf of Mexico in 2010, leaving long-lasting effects.

Both are part of larger restoration plans, the group overseeing Louisianas share of that settlement noted.

Each project will set a record, said Chip Kline, president of Louisianas Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority.

He said the Lake Borgne project near Shell Beach in St. Bernard Parish will create more than 2,800 acres (1,100 hectares) of marsh, making it the largest area ever bid by the agency. The Louisiana Trustee Implementation Group approved $114.7 million for the project.

This project will have immediate benefits to habitat for fish and birds by reinforcing the degrading southwestern shoreline of Lake Borgne and Lena Lagoon, St. Bernard Parish President Guy McInnis said. And we need all the natural marsh buffer we can build to lessen the damaging effects of tidal action and storm surge.

The $100.3 million Spanish Pass project, near Venice in Plaquemines Parish, will use an estimated 16 million cubic yards (12 million cubic meters) of dredged material to create about 132 acres (53 hectares) of ridge and 1,700 acres (688 hectares) of marsh. That will be the authoritys largest dredging volume so far, Kline said.

The Mississippi River created our parish and the many historic ridges of our landscape, said Plaquemines Parish President Kirk Lepine. These features protect against storm surge, reduce saltwater intrusion, provide key habitats and also help retain sediment. The marsh west of Venice has been in need of this level of attention for some time, and I know the people and businesses near Venice will appreciate this massive project and this tremendous investment.

The Oil Pollution Act settlement was part of a 2016 agreement totaling more than $20 billion. It was based partly on the judges estimate that the 87-day Deepwater Horizon spill spewed nearly 134 million gallons (507 million liters) of crude into the Gulf _ enough to fill the U.S. Capitol rotunda 13 times.

Federal experts estimated the total at more than 176 million gallons (666 million liters), while BP estimated 102 million gallons (386 million liters).

Edwards said the latest projects make up the fifth major restoration plan approved this year by trustees for Louisianas share of the $8.8 billion.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
on Thursday crossed



another grim milestone of seven lakh cases though the spread of the pandemic has been on a declining trend over the past few days.

It took 14 days for the state to add one lakh cases



from six to seven whereas the previous four lakhs came in a 10-day span each.

The state's Covid-19 tally crossed six lakh on September 17.

The state's COVID-19 aggregate now reached 7,00,235 after 6,751 new cases were added in 24 hours ending 9 am on Thursday.

The latest bulletin said 7,297 patients also recovered, taking the gross to 6,36,508.

The overall toll climbed to 5,869 following 41 fresh fatalities, the bulletin added.

The number of active cases further declined to 57,858.

AP reached the 10,000 cases mark on June 24, 50,000 on July 20, one lakh on July 27, 1.50 lakh on August 1, two lakh on August 7 and 2.50 lakh on August 12.

It reached the three-lakh mark on August 18 and four lakh on the 28th.

On September 7, the Covid-19 tally went past the five lakh figure.

It took 190 days for the state to go from just one case to six lakh cases after the first person tested positive for the contagion on March 12, with the last two lakh coming in just 20 days.

The infection positivity rate reduced to 11.91 per cent after 58.78 lakh sample tests were done till date, at the rate of 1,10,077 per million.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Even teleprompter could not take so many lies: Rahul's dig at PM Modis Davos speech

Hathras gangrape: UP police file case against Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka for violating Epidemic Act

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

New Delhi, Oct 01: Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi were arrested by the police under sections 188, 269, 270 IPC and the Pandemic Act and were later released according to law.

The FIR has been filed at EcoTech police station in Gautam Buddh Nagar against Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, 153 Congress workers and 50 unknown people.

The FIR was lodged under Indian Penal Code sections 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant), 269 (unlawfully or negligently spreading infection of any disease dangerous to life), 270 (malignant act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life) and under section 3 of the Epidemic Diseases Act, the police said.

Farm laws: Rahul Gandhi to hold tractor rallies in Punjab, Haryana from Oct 3-5

"Some party members have also been booked for indulging in a scuffle during which some women constables were hurt while the uniform of a lady sub-inspector got torn," the Gautam Buddh Nagar police said in a statement.

Earlier in the day, around 200 Congress workers, including senior leaders of the party, had started a march on the expressways in Greater Noida after their convoy was stopped near Pari Chowk.

The two Gandhi siblings and around 150 party workers were briefly detained by the police and later released on personal bond, a senior officer told PTI. The party workers were en route to Hathras to meet the family of the 19-year-old Dalit woman, who had died in a Delhi hospital on Tuesday, a fortnight after she was allegedly gang-raped near her village in western UP.

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Story first published: Friday, October 2, 2020, 0:00 [IST]
October 01 : Kriti Sanon just took to her social media profile and wrote a hard-hitting note on the increasing number of rapes in India, reacting to the brutal gangrape of a 19-year-old woman from Hathras.

Kriti wrote a long post on her social media, talking about changing the mind-set of people. The note read, Its not a new story, its an old one! We have witnessed several such cases that made us angry, disgusted, upset, numb and scared all at the same time! People voiced in millions, protested, condemned, demanded the culprits to be given the most horrifying punishment possible, participated in candle marches and more! But the sad truth is that NOTHING changes!! NOTHING!

India recorded an average 87 rape cases every day in 2019 and 4,05,861 cases of crimes against women during that year- 7% more than 2018. (Not citing 2020 because lockdown statistics wont reflect the real state)

It is the MINDSET that needs to change! The patriarchal thinking that is set so so deep in peoples minds for years! It needs to change from the very base! The upbringing of both boys and girls.. that doesnt teach them to differentiate or doesnt tell them that men are superior or crying is a girlss thing, that boys can be out till late, but girls shouldnt.

Instead of worshipping your daughters and touching their feet on Kanjak/Ashtami, give them equal treatment and equal opportunities! Tell them they are no less and educate them so they can become independent. Instead of pampering your sons, saying boys will be boys and telling them that they should know how to control their wives, teach them that a man isnt manly if he cannot respect a woman! When Gender Equality will start at HOME, change is inevitable! read the full note.

Apart from Kriti, Bollywood actors such as Priyanka Chopra, Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan and Farhan Akhtar among others have expressed their anger over the heinous incident.

On work front, Kriti will next be seen in Mimi.
The Orthodox Jewish community in Brooklyn has helped elect more than a few Democratic men to positions in local and state government, but Amber Adler, CEO of the educational nonprofit Our Life, could become one of the first Orthodox women to win a seat on the New York City Council.

That all depends on whether she can win the 2021 race to succeed Council Member Chaim Deutsch. While her politics are not so different from the term-limited lawmaker  whose 2017 reelection campaign Adler worked for  the presence of the mother of two Hasidic children on the City Council would be a different look for the heavily Orthodox 48th Council District in southern Brooklyn.

City & State recently caught up with the Ohio native to find out what she believes her candidacy represents for the Orthodox Jewish community, the district and the city. The interview has been edited for length and clarity.

How do you fit into the Jewish community?

I tend to just say Orthodox. It just so happens that I married someone Hasidic, whom Im not with now, which technically makes my children Hasidic, but I don't use the term Hasidic. If people see a picture of me, they're like, Oh, I understand what is happening there  Orthodox.

So what do you think you would bring something new to the City Council?

There are definitely more men in political leadership positions in the Jewish community, but there are plenty of women doing many, many things to better the community. You might not see them. You might not hear about them, but they're really supporting the community.

I have faced different obstacles but I won't say that they were anything I couldn't overcome. Because as a single mother, I bring my children everywhere with me.

And what started off possibly as an obstacle actually became part of even my political identity. I focused really, really hard on making sure they see what it means to be compassionate, empathetic, and caring. My older son actually ended up in a viral photo from the memorial for George Floyd.

What's an issue that you think really exemplifies what you would bring to the Council?

Childcare is a huge issue and we see that now more than ever during the pandemic. There are people from all backgrounds that need child care and for their kids to be safe. They need it to be affordable. We also need an expansion of Pre-K in the district. That would also enable people to get back to work. The state should come in and provide some funding for that.

Many of the elected officials representing Orthodox communities in Brooklyn have been men who leaned much more to the political right than their counterparts in other parts of the city. How do you fit in?

I just see myself as a middle-of-the-road Democrat.

But where are you on hot button issues like defunding the NYPD or pledging to not take money from the real estate industry?

I haven't made any pledges on taking money. I don't want to vilify one group of people or another, I really want to just go walk the line and help everyone.

Council Member Chaim Deutsch currently represents the area. A photo of him is on your campaign website. How would you compare yourself to him?

He has done a lot for the community that I have been supportive of: things like fighting for the pilot program that gave halal and kosher food to public school students. I was a part of advocating for that on the steps of City Hall.

What do you think of the citys response to the late September clusters of coronavirus cases in Brooklyn?

I think the city could have done better with information. I can tell you right now that there is a poster on a bus stop in Midwood that is in Yiddish, which is not so popular in this area. If one was to put Yiddish in this area they should do it farther down around senior areas, particularly in Sheepshead Bay.
A man who served nearly four years in prison for assaulting Hoboken police officers in 2012 is now accused of shooting a man in the Jersey City Heights on Wednesday, authorities said.

Lagrone Ladson, 42, was arrested Wednesday night, hours after police say he shot a man on Franklin Street near New York Avenue. Ladson, of Jersey City, was charged with attempted murder and weapons offenses.

The incident was the second of two shootings in the Heights section between 10:50 a.m. and 11 a.m. Minutes earlier, a man was shot in the area of Leonard Street and Summit Avenue. Authorities say the victim of the first shooting has been released from the hospital, while the second  a 42-year-old Jersey City man  remains hospitalized in stable condition.

Lagrone Ladson (NJ DOC photo)NJDOC

Ladson has an extensive criminal history. The former Hoboken resident who now lives in Jersey City served nearly four years in prison between 2014 and 2018 for aggravated assault on a police officer and other drug offenses.

After a drug arrest in 2012, he assaulted two police officers while in custody at a hospital. One officer suffered a broken arm and another suffered a serious eye injury.

Since Sept. 10, 1996, the day after he turned 18 years old, Ladson has been charged with at least 13 felony offenses, including aggravated assault, drug-dealing and receiving stolen property, according to court records. Many of the more serious offenses were dismissed in plea deals in which Lagrone admitted to lesser offenses, the court records indicate.

Most recently, he was arrested in Hoboken in July and charged with drug offenses. Ladson was released from custody on level three monitoring  conditions that require him to check in with the court once a week while his case is adjudicated.

Ward D Councilman Yousef Saleh said Wednesdays violence  and four other shootings since August  is the result of an ongoing conflict between groups in Hoboken and Jersey City.

The folks responsible are well known, Saleh wrote on Facebook. This is the result of a feud that is spiraling out of control, and we are going to put an end to it. They moved in very recently from Hoboken, found a cheap apartment here in the Heights, and this why youre seeing this spike in violence.

Landlords need to do their due diligence as well and run background checks.
As Pennsylvania launches a new restaurant self-certification program, only a sliver of the states food establishments are on board.

About 5,200 restaurants out of more than 25,000 in operation in the state have filled out paperwork to allow them to raise indoor capacity limits from 25% to 50%. The program is designed to demonstrate restaurants are following the states COVID-19 guidelines.

This is important because we heard loud and clear that restaurants want to increase their indoor capacity, but we knew we had to do it the right way, in a way that protects the health and safety of employees and customers, said Dennis Davin, secretary of the Department of Community and Economic Development.

The department held a press briefing Thursday in tandem with the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture to discuss the program. Many restaurant owners in the state have expressed concerns over self-certification.

Restaurants still have time to self-certify. State officials have said they will begin enforcement of the 50% occupancy limit beginning Oct. 5, so restaurants aiming to boost their indoor seating to that level must self-certify by that date. Restaurants will still be able to participate in the certification process beyond that date if they are taking more time before raising their indoor seating.

Last month, Eric Nyman, owner of Penn Hotel & Raw Bar in Hershey, told PennLive he didt plan on filling out the paperwork.

I dont think we should be held to that type of accountability. We are already held to high accountability as an industry, he said. Why sign a paper to agree to something and what are the repercussions if we screw up on one of these rules?

John Longstreet, president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Restaurant and Lodging Association, told Fox 43, restaurants are offended by the concept that they should have to self-certify in order to reopen.

Davin stressed self-certification does not open up participating restaurants to unattended consequences such as additional inspections or fines and penalties.

The self-certification requires restaurants to submit online through the DCEDs website that they meet all of the states coronavirus prevention guidelines. The form became available Sept. 21. Enforcement begins Oct. 5.

Restaurants that complete the process will also be entered into an online database informing customers of which restaurants have completed the process, and they will also receive items such as window signage from the state announcing that they have met the states requirements.

Self-certifying proves that a business is committed to protecting employees and providing patrons a safe dining experience, said Russell Redding, secretary of Agriculture.

Any health and safety violations will be handled first with warnings and education, rather than fines and penalties, he said. In addition, Redding stressed the states food safety inspectors have noticed most of the states restaurants are complying with mitigation efforts and the number of complaints are decreasing each week.

Over the last seven weeks, he noted the department issued 21 warning letters and seven citations out of 4,355 facilities inspected. However, if establishments dont sign up and violate the 50% or more capacity limits, Redding said they would face penalties.

Its even more reason, I think, for people to say lets do the 50 percent and be self-certified, Redding said. Demonstrate the right thing here, and thats to reassure both the employees and the public we are in this together, and we are going to try and get all of these restaurants and other businesses back on good footing as quickly as possible.
Kristen Dahlgren has opened up about how losing feeling in her chest after her double mastectomy has been one of the most surprising and hardest side-effects of her breast cancer treatment.

The NBC News correspondent, who is cancer-free after being diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer in September 2019, revealed in an essay published by Today that she plans on having a Resensation procedure to try and regain feeling in her chest when she has breast reconstruction surgery earlier this year.

'For me, Id really just love to feel a hug  or my little girl cuddled up against me on the couch,' Dahlgren, 48, wrote. 'If it doesnt work, life certainly goes on, but like I have so often in the past year, for now, I am hanging on to hope.'

Scroll down for video

Candid: NBC News correspondent Kristen Dahlgren has revealed she will undergo Resensation, a procedure to attempt to regain feeling in her chest after a double mastectomy

Looking back: Dahlgren, pictured after chemotherapy, was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer in September 2019

The journalist announced in April that she was cancer-free after undergoing a double mastectomy, eight rounds of chemotherapy, and 25 rounds of radiation.

Dahlgren explained that while her life 'has returned to a semblance of normal' the lack of feeling in her chest has been a 'constant reminder' of her cancer battle.

'It hits me every time I take a deep breath, or get a hug, and especially when my daughter lays her head on my chest,' she said. 'Thats when I really "feel" the toll the breast cancer has taken. Its discomfort and numbness all at once. Of all of the side effects of treatment, for me, this may be the hardest.'

The mom admitted that before her breast cancer diagnosis, she never realized that women lose feeling in their chests after mastectomies.

'It makes sense, of course  since the nerves are cut during the surgery  but its not something that is often talked about,' she noted. After all, the most important thing in the surgery is removing all of the cancer and saving your life.

'So, numbness is something I thought I would just have to live with.'

Life-saving decision: While reporting on a hurricane in North Carolina, Dahlgren dashed to a local hospital to get a mammogram and ultrasound after finding a 'dent' in her breast

Battling breast cancer: The journalist underwent surgery, eight rounds of chemotherapy, and 25 rounds of radiation

However, that changed when a friend introduced her to Dr. Constance Chen, a reconstructive plastic surgeon in New York City.

Dr. Chen is one of a handful of surgeons who performs Resensation, a procedure that involves reconnecting nerves as part of natural tissue or "flap" reconstruction.

'She removes fat and tissue from another part of your body to create breasts, but when she does the microsurgery to connect blood supply, she also uses a nerve graft to reattach nerves in the chest,' Dahlgren explained. 'Its similar to the grafts that have been used since 2007 in arms, legs, and hands.'

While other plastic surgeons she had spoken with told her the 'procedure isn't there yet' or 'it doesn't really work,' one of Dr. Chen's patients has seen great success with the procedure.

Jane Obidia was newlywed and about to have a child via surrogate at age 43 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer and advised by her doctor to undergo a double mastectomy.

Obidia told Dahlgren that later, when a nurse placed her newborn daughter, Alana, on her chest, she couldn't feel it. After having an issue with her implants, she turned to Dr. Chen, who performed Resensation along with a natural tissue reconstruction.

Celebration: Dahlgren announced in April that she was cancer-free after seven months of treatment

Honest: Dahlgren explained that while her life 'has returned to a semblance of normal' the lack of feeling in her chest has been a 'constant reminder' of her cancer battle

The mom said she now has 80 per cent of her feeling back in her chest, which has helped her feel more like herself post-cancer.

'It was her story that helped convince me to try the Resensation procedure when I have my reconstruction later this year,' Dahlgren said. 'Dr. Chen warns me there are no guarantees. She cannot say it works for everyone, but she says when it works, it works well.'

The correspondent noted that while it adds a couple of hours to the already long surgery, it is often covered by health insurance under a law that guarantees women the right to reconstruction.

Dahlgren also discussed Resensation on the Today show on Thursday, the first day of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

'It's not something that we talk about a lot and frankly, I had never really thought about or realized that women who have mastectomies generally lose feeling,' she said.

'Think about that. That's never feeling a hug or my little girl falling asleep on my chest. I thought it was something I had to live with.'

Dahlgren noted that the procedure 'may not be for everyone,' but it is something that people can ask about.

Memory: Jane Obidia got 80 per cent of feeling back in her chest after the procedure. She recalled not being able to feel her newborn on her chest after her double mastectomy

Staying positive: While it's not guaranteed to work, Dahlgren said she 'hanging on to hope'

'Women should at the very least know what options are available,' she said.

The journalist also talked about her upcoming reconstruction, telling Today co-anchors Savannah Guthrie and Hoda Kotb that she doesn't know if her husband is going to be able to go with her because of the ever-changing visitor policy amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Dahlgren was covering a hurricane in North Carolina last year when she noticed a 'dent' in her breast that rang an ominous bell.

It brought back the words of a woman she'd interviewed, three years prior, who had been diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer after noticing a subtle change in the shape of her own breast that doctors initially dismissed.

Armed with that little known information, Dahlgren pressed doctors until she, too, was screened, outside her home state, between assignments.

It hadn't even been a year since she had had her last mammogram, but the urgent exams she had done in North Carolina revealed two things: she had dense breast tissue and stage 2 breast cancer.

Dahlgren believes that interview that taught her about breast cancer's less obvious signs likely saved her life.
Nearly half of students at public elementary schools in a COVID-19 hot spot west of Toronto are learning online, according to data provided by the school board.

Upwards of 54,600 elementary students have opted for remote learning this year at the Peel District School Board, while roughly 57,300 have returned to the classroom  a split far higher than the roughly one-third of elementary students learning from home at neighbouring boards.

The Peel board saw a sharp increase in students opting for remote learning over the course of the last month, according to numbers it shared. In late August, just 35,800 students had registered for online learning, compared to 78,300 who indicated a preference for in-class lessons.

The Catholic school board in the region  the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board  said about 14,150 elementary students are learning online, compared to 32,400 who have returned to the classroom, meaning just 30 per cent are taking remote classes.

Meanwhile, roughly 59,200 of the Toronto District School Boards 174,000 elementary students  or about 35 per cent  are learning online, that board said.

But Vickita Bhatt, an elementary teacher with the Peel board, said the number of students learning from home has had little effect on life in the classroom.

Some families thought that if I keep my child at home, then that might alleviate the burden and that might mean smaller classroom sizes for those that need to send their kids to face-to-face school, because theyre front-line workers, etc., she said.

That, Bhatt said, was a misconception.

The school funding model, which is based largely on the number of students in a given classroom, has meant the board needed to collapse and combine in-person classes, she said.

Bhatt, who teaches French, art, drama and health, said shes seen that firsthand and noted that the situation increases exposure risks for students and staff.

I worry. And I worry for my colleagues, because Im a rotary teacher, she said. So I go into three different classes with 23 or 24 kids each, so it is difficult.

What was disappointing to me is that all of this could have been avoided, had we, you know, capped classroom sizes, and the government would have just given adequate funding to boards to roll out the plan that they wanted, she said.

A spokeswoman for the Minister of Education defended the plan, saying it was informed by the best medical and scientific minds in the country.

We are proud to lead the nation in COVID-19 school reopening funding, an aggressive masking policy for grades 4-12, hiring up to 1,300 custodians and $75M in additional cleaning funding, along with the hiring of 625 public health nurses to support student health in our schools, Caitlin Clark said in an email.

The Peel board, meanwhile, said in a written statement that it was committed to staff and student safety, as well as providing the very best learning opportunities we can for our students regardless of online or in-person attendance.

We have staffed our schools according to Ministry expectations and this has required us to reorganize our in-person schools to ensure we have enough teachers to teach our online classes, the statement reads.

The boards high schools are running on an adapted model, with students who chose in-class learning only attending school half the time to minimize contact with their peers.

Still, the board said 27 per cent of high schoolers  around 11,200  are learning fully online.

Peel Public Health said its seen 9,707 cases of COVID-19 throughout the pandemic, 8,396 of whom have recovered, and 329 deaths.

It said 5,660 of those cases are from Brampton, Ont.,  meaning the city of 600,000 accounts for 11 per cent of Ontarios COVID-19 cases, but only four per cent of the provinces population.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 1, 2020.
New Delhi:

India has held a range of talks on the sale of indigenously developed surface-to-air Akash missile and supersonic Bramhos missile to Vietnam, the government on Friday said.

India and Vietnam share a strategic partnership. Defence cooperation, including supply of defence equipment, is an important aspect of this partnership.

Both countries have held discussions on range of issues in this regard, Subhash Bhamre, Minister of State in the Ministry of Defence said in a written reply in Lok Sabha on whether the government has any plans to sell Akash and Bramhos to the Southeast Asian nation.

Responding to another question, Bhamre said a Committee of Experts was constituted by Ministry of Defence under the chairmanship of Lt Gen (retd) D B Shekatkar to recommend measures to enhance combat capability and rebalance defence expenditure of the armed forces.

ALSO READ | Issues raised by jawans on social media individual in nature, do not reflect collective view: MoS Defence Subhash Bhamre

The Committee has submitted its final report in December 2016. An internal committee has been constituted within the Ministry to analyse the report, identify the recommendations to be accepted and to frame the key action points as well as a roadmap for their implementation, he said.

The Minister, in reply to another question, said trials on Pinaka rocket were successfully conducted at Integrated Test Range (ITR) Balasore in two phases on January 12 and 24 this year, with range of 65 km and 75 km, respectively.

The guided version of Pinaka rocket incorporates Inertial Navigation Systems (INS)/ Global Positioning System (GPS) for the mid-course guidance with accuracy of 60m to 80m at all ranges.

Pinaka has been designed and developed for induction into Army after successful user trials. Two regiments of Pinaka unguided version have already been inducted into the Army.

Current trials have been conducted for demonstrating the feasibility of the development of guided version of Pinaka rocket using the same launcher and ammunition configuration. In the recent trials conducted, the desired accuracy has been achieved, Bhamre said.

To a question on whether the air force has sufficient number of fighter aircraft to maintain its combat edge, he said, it is adequately equipped to cater for the threat environment that exists.

He said procurement of state-of-art fighter aircraft is on and it includes 36 Rafale jets, Su-30 MKI aircraft while procurement of LCA Tejas has also been approved.

Bhamre also said Advance Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft will be inducted into the Indian Air Force after completion of design and development flight trials and systems evaluation.

Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) has fitted into AEW&C various indigenously developed Systems/ Equipment. Complete software for all systems have also been developed indigenously, mostly within DRDO, he said.

To another question, the minister said, in the past two years, 50,000 bullet proof jackets (BPJ) have been procured for the Indian Army through an Indian manufacturer. Further, the case for procurement of BPJs of quantity 1,86,138 through Capital Route is under Buy (Indian) category.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
When there is a collapse as complete and dramatic as the one experienced in the second quarter of this year it becomes nearly impossible to make sense of the data that comes in afterward. The truth is that data will be hard to interpret for a while as we wait for some sense of normalcy to return.

Although still in positive territory, the September Credit Managers Index (CMI) from the National Association of Credit Management (NACM) remains above levels recorded for the same month last year. However, September marks the first CMI decline since April, landing at an even 56. The half-point fall from August brings the CMI score slightly under Februarys U.S. pre-pandemic data. Like many other indicators, and despite the slight decline in September, the CMI is still trending positively in expansion territory.

When there is a collapse as complete and dramatic as the one experienced in the second quarter of this year it becomes nearly impossible to make sense of the data that comes in afterward, said Chris Kuehl, Ph. D., NACM economist. The truth is that data will be hard to interpret for a while as we wait for some sense of normalcy to return.

The combined favorable factors improved from 62.9 to 63.3, despite the decline in amount of credit extended, which slipped from 61.3 to 60.8. Sales was down slightly to 65.5, which is still higher than it was a year ago. New credit applications increased slightly to 63.6. Dollar collections was the big winner of the month, increasing more than two points to 63.3better than September 2019.

Overall, the unfavorable factors slipped from 52.2 to 51.1 in September. Accounts placed for collections and disputes, sank into contraction territory, with scores under 50. While still in expansion territory, dollar amount beyond terms tumbled from 58.2 to 54.6. Rejections of credit applications improved slightly to 51.6, and dollar amount of customer deductions dropped to 51.1 from 52.2. Surprisingly, filings for bankruptcies improved from 47.7 to 51.3.

There was a dramatic fall in the favorable factors as the crisis emerged, but the unfavorables didnt respond as negatively at first, Kuehl said. Now, the unfavorable factors are becoming the problem and the favorables are carrying the load. The initial impact of the shutdown was felt in every category from sales to applications, but issues like bankruptcies and collections took a little longer to develop.

On the manufacturing side, five of the six unfavorables saw a decline in September. Accounts placed for collection (49.4), disputes (48.1) and dollar amount of customer deductions (49.8) each dipped back into the contraction zone. Rejections of credit applications at 51.7 and dollar amount beyond terms at 52.3 stayed in expansion territory, but the latter dropped 5.5 points. Filings for bankruptcies improved from 47.9 to 51.6, helping the overall unfavorables stay afloat at 50.5.

The manufacturing favorables improved half a point to 62.5, led by a jump from 61.3 to 63.9 in dollar collections. Sales declined by more than two points to 65.1, while new credit applications rose slightly to 60.8. Amount of credit extended increased modestly to 60.3. In total, the manufacturing sector declined from 56 to 55.3. The manufacturing sector has been far less affected and, in some respects, has been benefiting from the shift in consumption from paying for services to spending on goods, said Kuehl.

The service sector saw a climb in sales from 64.3 to 65.9, and new credit applications remained basically unchanged at 66.4. Dollar collections improved nearly two points to 62.6, and amount of credit extended tumbled more than two points to 61.3. The favorables continued to climb to 64.1. The combined service sector index dipped two-tenths of a point to 56.7.

The service sectors unfavorables saw two factors slip back into contraction territory: accounts placed for collection at 49.4 and disputes at 49.3. Rejections of credit applications inched forward to 51.5, while dollar amount of customer deductions declined a tenth of a point to 52.4. Dollar amount beyond terms dove a point and a half to 57, and filings for bankruptcies improved from 47.6 to 50.9. The unfavorables as a group dropped to 51.8 from 52.2.

The service sector remains the most stressed and vulnerable, said Kuehl. Travel and tourism have not recovered to the levels set at the first of the year, and there continues to be severe contraction in the hospitality segment. Retailers are seeing progress, but they continue to worry about the chances for another lockdown.

For a complete breakdown of the manufacturing and service sector data and graphics, view the September 2020 report at http://web.nacm.org/CMI/PDF/CMIcurrent.pdf. CMI archives may also be viewed on NACMs website at http://www.nacm.org/cmi/cmi-archive.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CREDIT MANAGEMENT

NACM, headquartered in Columbia, Maryland, supports approximately 11,000 business credit and financial professionals worldwide with premier industry services, tools and information. NACM and its network of affiliated associations are the leading resource for credit and financial management information, education, products and services designed to improve the management of business credit and accounts receivable. NACMs collective voice has influenced federal legislative policy results concerning commercial business and trade credit to our nations policy makers for more than 100 years and continues to play an active part in legislative issues pertaining to business credit and corporate bankruptcy. NACM's annual Credit Congress & Exposition conference is the largest gathering of credit professionals in the world.

Contact:

Michael Miller

Andrew Michaels

410-740-5560

Website: http://www.nacm.org

Source: National Association of Credit Management

###
Britain and Canada on Tuesday became the first major nations to slap sanctions on Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko over the country's seething political crisis.

The move came as Russia lashed out at what it dubbed "unprecedented external pressure" on Minsk after Lukashenko's disputed election victory triggered massive street protests and Western condemnation.

The European Union has so far failed to impose blanket sanctions on Lukashenko, with only its small Baltic members Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania targeting the strongman leader and around 100 senior regime officials.

But French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday signalled that EU sanctions were in the offing after he promised that Paris would help foster mediation of the crisis.

London and Ottawa imposed the sanctions on Lukashenko, his son and senior regime figures for a string of alleged human rights violations.

Belarus has been in upheaval since a disputed August 9 presidential election in which opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya claimed victory against Lukashenko, who has ruled since 1994.

The United States, European Union, Britain and Canada regard his presidency as illegitimate, but he has the backing of long-time ally Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Macron met Tuesday with Tikhanovskaya in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius in what was seen as a major show of support for the activist.

Tikhanovskaya fled to the Baltic EU state bordering Belarus in the aftermath of the vote as mass protests in former Soviet republic were met with a brutal crackdown in which thousands were arrested.

"Europe is putting itself in a position to exert pressure, through sanctions that we will have to take in the coming days and weeks," Macron told reporters.

EU leaders are preparing to adopt sanctions against Lukashenko and other top Belarusian officials at a summit later this week.

- Lukashenko 'has to go' -

Macron on Sunday said that Lukashenko "has to go", but has also vowed support possible mediation in the crisis by the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).

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"Our objective is for this mediation to begin in the next few days or weeks," Macron said, adding that German Chancellor Angela Merkel and EU chief Charles Michel would "push" Belarus to accept mediation.

"The aim is a peaceful transition, the release of people who are in prison for their political opinions and the holding of free elections under international observation," he said.

Tuesday's meeting with Macron was Tikhanovskaya's most high-profile so far.

She has previously addressed the UN Human Rights Council and the European Parliament and has met with EU foreign ministers and the leaders of neighbouring Poland and Lithuania.

Tikhanovskaya, a political novice whose blogger husband is in prison in Belarus accused of trying to overthrow the government, told AFP after the meeting that she had accepted an invitation to speak at the French parliament.

Parliamentary officials said she would address the lower house's foreign affairs committee.

- 'Difficult situation' -

Tikhanovskaya said the crisis should be resolved "as soon as possible" and new free and fair elections should be held by the end of the year.

"(Macron) supports the idea of mediation because he understands that powerful countries need to be involved to begin negotiations with Lukashenko. He is ready to help with this," she said.

"I think he will speak with the Russian side about Belarus and will do everything possible to involve Russia in these negotiations."

Macron has said that Putin, Lukashenko's main ally, is favourable to mediation in the Belarus crisis by the OSCE.

But Putin on Tuesday said that Belarus was in a "difficult situation" and was facing "unprecedented external pressure".

Addressing a forum on the Belarusian and Russian regions, the Kremlin chief said Moscow was ready to stand by Minsk, describing ties as "timeless and all-weather".

Putin has promised to provide Lukashenko with security assistance if the political crisis worsens and gave Belarus a loan of $1.5 billion.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov downplayed Macron's talks with Tikhanovskaya, saying it amounted to a meeting between the "French president and a Belarusian citizen".

leb-bur/mas/txw
Congress Rajya Sabha MP Ahmed Patel on Thursday said he has tested positive for the coronavirus infection.

I have tested positive for Covid19," Patel said on his Twitter account. I request all those who came in close contact with me recently to self-isolate."

I have tested positive for Covid19. I request all those who came in close contact with me recently, to self isolate Ahmed Patel (@ahmedpatel) October 1, 2020

Patel becomes the latest politician to have tested positive, with high-profile names such as Nitin Gadkari and Amit Shah having tested positive earlier.

The Congress leader was recently seen in the concluded Parliament session where he was seen opposing the farm Bills in Rajya Sabha. Earlier, Vice President and Chairman of the Rajya Sabha Venkaiah Naidu had also tested positive.

The countrys Covid-19 tally has crossed the 63-lakh mark on Thursday with a spike of 86,821 new cases and 1,181 deaths reported in the last 24 hours.

The total case tally stands at 63,12,585 including 9,40,705 active cases while 52,73,202 have been cured.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. Russian and French Presidents Vladimir Putin and Emmanuel Macron have discussed escalation of the situation around Nagorno Karabakh, the leaders have called on the opposing parties to exercise maximum restraint and to cease hostilities as soon as possible, TASS reports the Kremlin press service said following a phone call initiated by the French side.

The sharp deterioration of the situation in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone was discussed in detail. Serious concerns were expressed in light of the continuing large-scale hostilities. Vladimir Putin and Emmanuel Macron called on the opposing party to implement an immediate and full ceasefire, de-escalate tensions and show maximum restraint, the statement reads.

The press service added that the conversation highlighted the fact that there are no alternatives to settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh crisis by political and diplomatic means. In this context, specific parameters of further cooperation, particularly in the OSCE Minsk Group, were reviewed. The willingness to make a statement on behalf of the Minsk Group co-chairs (Russia, France, the US) in support of an immediate stopping of the armed confrontation and resumption of the negotiating process, the Kremlin informed.
The Chief Executive Officer of Sterling Bank Plc, Abubakar Suleiman, has announced that the bank obtained the Central Bank of Nigerias approval in principle to enable it restructure as a Holding Company.

Mr Suleiman made this known in a disclosure sent to the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) by the bank.

The bank said its desire to operate as a Holding Company was driven by its plan to spin off its non-interest banking window which became operational in January 2014 into an autonomous entity.

The bank said it believes that the proposed structure incorporates efficiencies around operations and financing efforts that will support the individual businesses in reaching full potential through a number of strategies.

It said in terms of increased portfolio diversification, the Holding Company structure enables the non-interest bank and other non-core businesses achieve greater results based on focused management of the distinct businesses.

In terms of improved efficiency resulting from the consolidation of key functions such as compliance, risk management and other support functions, the new move will yield improved prospects for individual business growth.

It will also enhance corporate governance which serves to promote a consistent culture across the group and quality of service to customers thereby facilitating sustainability of earnings.

In the same vein, it will encourage better access to capital by leveraging the consolidated financial strength of the group which would have been otherwise difficult for each individual subsidiary company.

Going into the Holding Company structure, our desire is to entrench our business model premised on impact capitalism where we believe that private sector capital and market-based tools will offer the best types of solutions to Nigerias most pressing social and environmental challenges, the bank said in its disclosures.

HoldCo

A holding company is a corporation that owns a controlling interest in one or more banks but does not itself offer banking services. Holding Companies do not run the day-to-day operations of the banks they own. However, they exercise control over management and company policies.

In 2009, after Nigeria went through crisis in its banking sector, the central bank announced measures to forestall another crisis in the banking industry.

Central to the CBNs strategy at the time was the abolition of universal banking licences.

To reduce risks and ensure a clearer separation of depositors funds from volatile and riskier businesses, banks were asked to divest subsidiaries unrelated to commercial banking, or move to a holding company structure.

A number of banks have since been embracing the Holding Company (HoldCo) option.

PREMIUM TIMES reported on Tuesday that Access Bank Plc announced that it had equally received the Central Bank of Nigerias approval-in-principle for the banks restructuring to a holding company (HoldCo).

The bank said the proposed HoldCo structure would enable it to further accelerate its objectives around business diversification, improved operational efficiencies, talent retention as well as robust governance.

Major Premises

In its latest disclosure, Sterling bank noted that the Holding Company gives it the structure to explore its business model further.

It said: The Holding Company is designed to operate on 3 major premises  Specialization, Partnership and Digitization. The Conventional Bank will focus on building skills and using technology to provide solutions in the areas that are critical to development in the country  Health, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, Transportation (HEART).

The Non-Interest Bank will focus on building partnerships that connect individuals and businesses leveraging technology to create business optimization while solving for an individuals daily financial needs.

The overall business will focus on social impact, corporate responsibility and the highest ethical standards in its dealings. Our Digitization drive will create an enabling environment for both financial institutions to grow while providing services and support to build efficiencies in different ecosystems.

The bank said execution of its plans is fully dependent on interwoven operating model of agility, specialization and digitization.

Essentially, for us to be successful, we require people who are adaptable and knowledgeable running processes that are simple, quick and tech-led to ensure efficiency, it said.

The bank said that it is currently in the process of meeting the conditions for the final approval.

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(Newser)  The governor of Alabama has extended an apology and a promise to meet with attorneys of a survivor of the Ku Klux Klan's 1963 bombing of a church in Birmingham. Sarah Collins Rudolph, who was blinded in one eye in the attack, is seeking compensation from the state; her sister and three other girls were killed as they were changing into choir robes. Gov. Kay Ivey made the offer and apology in a letter to an attorney for Rudolph, USA Today reports, without suggesting what the outcome might be. Such talks, she wrote, "would be a natural extension of my Administration's ongoing efforts to foster fruitful conversations about the all-too-difficult  and sometimes painful  topic of race, a conversation occurring not only in Alabama but throughout America." It's the first time an Alabama official has publicly considered compensation for a victim of racial violence.

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A law firm representing Rudolph at no charge had asked Ivey for an apology and a financial settlement for the trauma she's suffered. That letter blamed rhetoric at the time of Gov. George Wallace and other state leaders for inciting racial violence. "What this country needs is a few first-class funerals, and some political funerals, too," Wallace said shortly before the bombing. "Her life was put on a fundamentally different track in an instant as a little girl," a lawyer for Rudolph said, per the Los Angeles Times. Because of her injuries, she had to abandon her plans to be a nurse, instead doing foundry work and housekeeping. "I'm still paying bills from that day," Rudolph said. "I still have to go to the doctor for my eye." Her lawyers welcomed the Ivey's statement, including the "unequivocal acknowledgment of the egregious injustice that Ms. Collins Rudolph suffered." (When the Klansman convicted in the attack died, Rudolph said she hoped he'd repented.)
The US Department of Justice (DOJ) may file a lawsuit against Google over its anticompetitive practices as soon as next week. The DOJ is currently urging state attorneys general to sign onto the suit, Reuters reports citing people familiar with the matter.

The lawsuit will reportedly accuse Google of abusing the dominance of its search engine. The company may have tried to disadvantage rivals such as Microsofts Bing by depriving them of user data and preferences. Such data would help its rivals improve their services and advertise to people.

The DOJ may also target Googles search advertising business practices. These are the ads that appear along with search results when someone looks up for a consumer item. Google controls the sale of the spaces for those ads, as well as the tools to make those ad sales.

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Google, however, has always denied these accusations and maintained that it hasnt done anything wrong. The company says Search simply provides users access to other information sources, like Twitter for news and Amazon for products. It also argues that its advertising business competes with several others including Oracle and Verizon.

DOJ to file a lawsuit against Google

Following a year-long antitrust investigation into Google, the US DOJ is now seemingly all set to launch a lawsuit against the Alphabet-owned internet giant. Several state attorneys general are also independently investigating Googles businesses. They are now in the process of considering whether to sign on to the federal lawsuit, the report adds.

The US DOJ and Federal Trade Commission (FTC) had last year said that they had opened antitrust investigations into the big four tech stalwarts  Google, Facebook, Amazon, and Apple. The Justice Department declined to a Reuters request for comment.

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The news comes at a time when China is reportedly preparing to launch an antitrust investigation into Google. The Chinese authorities are looking into charges that the Mountain View company has hindered competition through the dominance of its Android mobile operating system. Officials from Beijing are currently reviewing a preliminary report. The decision on whether to proceed with a formal investigation may come within this month.

Authorities in India are also looking into charges of Google abusing its market position to unfairly promote its mobile payments app in the country. The Competition Commission of India had fined Google Rs. 1.35 billion (roughly $21 million) for search bias in February last year. The European Union (EU) had also fined the company 4.3 billion euros in 2018 over anti-competitive practices.
Ana de Armas is smoldering in her latest photo shoot.

The 32-year-old beauty was radiant in fall fashion from Saint Laurent for the latest issue of Flaunt magazine while talking about the challenges of being in lockdown in Los Angeles away from her family in Cuba as she gets used to her newfound fame.

The girlfriend of Ben Affleck is promoting the next James Bond film No Time To Die. 'I feel I have been talking Bond for so long now,' said the star as the film has been delayed several times due to COVID-19. The current release date is November 11 in the US. 'It's been such a long time coming.'

New images: Ana de Armas is smoldering in her latest photo shoot. The 32-year-old beauty was radiant in fall fashion for the latest issue of Flaunt magazine

A new life: The versatile actress talked about being away from her family in Cuba and dealing with fame in Los Angeles

The star - whose full name is Ana Celia de Armas Caso - added that she is happy the movie theaters are now opening up and they 'finally' get a chance to 'celebrate all the hard work.'

Ana stars as CIA agent Paloma.

The pinup, who wore Tiffany & Co T1 jewelry for her Flaunt shoot, added that she does not know if she will see her co-stars for a big party when the film is released, but added it is Daniel Craig's last Bond movie and that is a 'big deal.'

Ready for release: The star is promoting the next James Bond film No Time To Die; seen with Daniel Craig

007 time: 'I feel I have been talking Bond for so long now,' said the star as the film has been delayed several times due to COVID-19. 'It's been such a long time coming'

Bond beauty: She added that she is happy the movie theaters are now opening up and they 'finally' get a chance to 'celebrate all the hard work'

Ana is still adjusting to life in the spotlight.

Being away from her family while on lockdown in Los Angeles has been hard on her. 'I miss my family so much,' said the star whose relatives are in Cuba.

'It's a different experience for me to be in LA,' she said. The actress is often photographed walking her dog or being next to her Dark Water costar Affleck whom she has been dating this year.

The two have not been photographed together in months as he has been in Ireland making The Last Duel with Matt Damon.

Then Ana said she did not think of fame before she started acting.

Stunning in citrine: Ana stars as CIA agent Paloma. The star added that she does not know if she will see her co-stars for a big party but added it is Daniel Craig's last Bond movie and that is a 'big deal.'

'It is just a consequence of my job,' said the star matter of factly.

The fame she has experienced so far has helped her relate to Marilyn Monroe. 'It was her worst nightmare,' said de Armas.

Ana also shared that her Knives Out co-star Jamie Lee Curtis helped her land the role of Marilyn Monroe in the upcoming film Blonde.

Away from her loves: Being away from her family while on lockdown in Los Angeles has been hard on her. 'I miss my family so much,' said the star whose relatives are in Cuba

Hard on her: 'It's a different experience for me to be in LA,' she said

But there is BEN: The actress is often photographed walking her dog or being next to her Dark Water costar Ben Affleck whom she has been dating this year

The fame game: With her beau Ben in July in LA. Ana said she did not think of fame before she started acting

'She is my biggest cheerleader,' said Ana.

'I showed her my screen test for Marilyn and of course I had on like a random wig they found which didn't fit me, so-so makeup and so-so wardrobe but even then, seeing me in the part like that, she got very excited.'

Playing Monroe was 'very intense,' added the beauty.

Rational: 'It is just a consequence of my job,' said the star matter of factly

She also talked her breakout role in Knives Out, an ensemble murder mystery with Don Johnson.

When she got the offer all it said was she was going to play a 'Latina, caretaker, pretty.'

'I really pay attention to what that little description is,' she said. 'I'm sure whoever did it wasn't thinking about what that mean but for me, I was just like, "Oh no, I'm not doing this!" What do you mean, "Latina, caretaker, pretty?"'

Life as Ana: The fame she has experienced so far has helped her relate to Marilyn Monroe

Fame is hard: 'It was her worst nightmare,' said de Armas, who has had to research Monroe

Next: Ana also shared that her Knives Out co-star Jamie Lee Curtis helped her land the role of Marilyn Monroe in the upcoming film Blonde

And she added she is very proud of being Latina.

'Even if you are playing a Latina, not all Latinas are the same... I want to think and believe that I can play anybody, anywhere in the world because the stories I want to tell are universal.'

When she read the script she was thrilled and felt comfortable with her character that she describes as a 'diamond' but she was 'terrified' as her insecurities about her talent and her ability to speak English well crept in.

De Armas also said, 'I think there needs to be a push for better roles for Latinas overall.'

As far as her next project, there is nothing due to COVID and she hopes 2021 will be better. The star also mentioned a Knives Out sequel which she hopes will happen.
A second person has been charged following the April death of a Birmingham infant whose body authorities said was set on fire after she died.

Terry Dewayne Hinson Jr., 25, was booked into the Jefferson County Jail Wednesday night on an abuse of corpse charge. Previously arrested on the same charge was the girls mother, 27-year-old Jasilyn Shebreit Hughes. Hinson is Hughes boyfriend. Both remain held on $250,000 bond.

It is not clear how the child died, and Hughes and Hinson have not been charged with any crimes accusing them of causing the childs death.

Under Alabama law, a person commits the crime of abuse of a corpse if he or she knowingly treats a human corpse in a way that would outrage ordinary family sensibilities. It is a Class C felony.

According to charging documents and authorities, Hughes, the childs mother, on April 1 placed the body of her daughter, Jahzara Harris, who was about 4 months old, into a diaper bag, placed that bag into a trash bag, set fire to the bag and then put the remains in an alley with the trash.

Documents regarding Hinsons arrest have not yet been made public.

Birmingham police launched an investigation after receiving a tip about the case. The investigation is ongoing and further details arent being released at this time.
Celebrity The Daily Beast

Reuters/Arnd WiegmannTheatrical rock superstar Meat Loaf, whose Bat Out of Hell is one of the bestselling albums of all time, has died at the age of 74. Reports say the singer and actor had recently fallen sick with COVID-19.In an emotional statement posted to Facebook early Friday, the performers family said he was with his wife when he died and had said his final goodbyes to his two daughters in the past 24 hours. The star sold 100 million albums in his five-decade career and starred in movie
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines)  The country's extra strong beer brand launched its newest offering that pays tribute to old Filipino folk songs in the modern era.

Red Horse Beer conceptualized Rock N' Collab, featuring Filipino rock icons who offered a modern rendition of old folk songs.

The Rock N' Collab, uploaded on Red Horse Beer's Lakas Tama channel on YouTube, aims to show how rock can be used to bridge old music to the appreciation of today's generation.

The pilot Rock N' Collab episode featured Slapshock's version of classic song "Carinosa", originally sung by the Queen of Kundiman, the legendary Sylvia La Torre.

Wilabaliw performed in another episode a modern rock spin of another Sylvia La Torre hit, "Alak."

The brand hopes to launch more videos for Rock N' Collab soon.

The Lakas Tama Channel of Red Horse Beer on YouTube serves as a hub of videos co-created with rock icons and influencers that reflects the unique and irreverent personality of the brand.
White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany folded under a simple question regarding a claim Donald Trump made that mail-in ballots for the 2020 US election were being dumped in rivers and creeks.

"Where is the river?" the reporter asked.

Ms McEnany, rather than answering the question, launched into a defensive tirade accusing the reporter of "missing the forest for the trees" and accusing him and others of lacking "journalistic curiosity."

"The other day [Mr Trump] said 'they found a lot of ballots in a river.' Who is they?" the reporter asked. "Who is 'they,' that found those ballots, and where is this river, anywhere in this country?"

McEnany claimed the "local authorities" were the ones who found the ballots in a ditch in Wisconsin. The reporter asked if that meant that Mr Trump misspoke, which McEnany denied. Then the reporter read Mr Trump's quote back to her, in which he claimed ballots were dumped in rivers and creeks.

At that point, Ms McEnany accused him of being shortsighted.

"I cover the news, I like to report accurately in the news, and the president says 'they found a lot of ballots in a river', I just want to know where the river is," the reporter shot back.

Ms McEnany then accused him ignoring the larger issue, which was alleged reports of ballots for Mr Trump going missing or being left uncounted.

She then claimed the press lacked "journalistic curiosity," despite the fact that the reporter was asking her for further details.

Apart from simply fact checking the president, asking for further details - particularly for a location - for such a brazen event as people dumping ballots in a river, would provide the press with an avenue for further reporting and verification.

Mr Trump has also claimed that ballots are being sold in West Virginia.

The president's frequent claims that mail-in-voting is especially susceptible to voter fraud is not backed by any data or research.

Lawrence Norden, the director of the Election Reform Program for the Brennan Center for Justice at the New York School of Law, told USA Today that Mr Trump's constant attacks on mail-in voting are not only inaccurate, they are harmful to the electoral process.

"What he said was full of misstatements and inaccuracies," Mr Norden said. "Mail-in ballots are safe and secure. We've been voting in some form by mail since the Civil War. It's dangerous to be making these false statements and accusations so close to the election."

Mr Trump has already threatened to involve the US Supreme Court in the electoral process by casting doubt on the validity of the collected ballots.

The actual situation regarding a ditch in Wisconsin occurred on 22 September, when three trays of mail, which included some absentee ballots, were found in a ditch in Outagamie County, Wisconsin. The US Postal Service and the US Postal Inspection Service put out a statement following the discovery that it would be investigating the matter.
Like a drop of water on parched earth, theatre has returned in its original format to where its heart lies. The recent commotion within the premises of National School of Drama (NSD) isnt for no reason. The stage is being set for its first live performance since the pandemic brought the life in Mandi House to a standstill, just like in most other parts of the country. On Gandhi Jayanti, October 2, the return of theatre to its most prominent genesis will be marked with the staging of the play, Pehla Satyagrahi. Though this play was introduced to audience last year, the stage on which it will be presented now is newly built, in the lawns of NSD. When MHA guidelines for Unlock 4 allowed us to restart operations, we called our actors back, asked them to submit their Covid-19 report, and then made a roster to ensure that only about 9-10 people are present at a time for rehearsals. This stage on which we will perform now is bigger, but is in open space so we will be well within the guidelines of social distancing. Also, no visitor without a mask will be allowed entry plus the stage and audience gallery will be sanitised before and after the show, which will be for only 100 people, informs Suresh Sharma, director of this play and director-in-charge at NSD.

A new play takes about 45 days to be conceived and well executed on the stage. Since we had limited time after our repertory actors joined back on September 7, there wasnt much time to start work on a new play. And for that we would have had to work with 40 people in one go, which would be a risky affair in these times! But, we knew that our audience has been waiting. Aur jab tak ek artiste perform na kare, toh depress ho jata hai... ab toh cheh mahine se zyada ho gaye perform kiye..., adds Sharma.

Theatres definition, around the world, is a performance that is live. It has to be an interaction between the actors and with the audience. Theatre cant be online.

 Suresh Sharma, director-in-charge, NSD

The play an apt choice for Covid-19 times, this play certainly talks about Bapus journey of becoming a Mahatma from Gandhi, and unravels many lesser-known aspects of his life. But, the director feels that its Gandhi who taught us the relevance of swachchta and self-discipline, and in the Covid era Hume apne aap ko anushasit karna hoga, sarkar kitna karegi (We will have to discipline ourselves, how much will the government do)? says Sharma opining that the comeback to stage was much needed and he isnt in favour of theatre going online. Theatres definition, around the world, is a performance that is live. It has to be an interaction between the actors and with the audience. Theatre cant be online... And if there arises a situation that the actors have to wear masks and perform, then in that case there shouldnt be any performance because a mask hides 70% of the face; in theatre we convey a lot through our body language. Aise hi karna hai toh phir toh hum puppet ke through kar lenge.

The play, Pehla Satyagrahi, delves on a lot of lesser known facets of Mahatma Gandhis life.

If this format turns out to be a success then the performances will resume fortnightly, over weekends, according to the plan so far. And actors, who were out of work are in a way welcoming this decision. During the rehearsals we wore masks, says Raju Roy, who plays the protagonist Gandhi, in the play. A guest artiste with NSD Repertory, Roy says it wasnt easy for him to leave his ailing mother back home in Guwahati, Assam, to return to Delhi for work. His words, Natak ki bhookh hai, echo as he shares how he had to quarantine himself for 10 days to meet his mother in his hometown before he returned to the Capital. Almost all of my friends who are artistes called me up during the lockdown saying they are going back home because they were unable to pay their house rent in absence of a livelihood. Some said they were feeling depressed; and now Ive been calling them up saying that work has resumed.... Lekin, is baar jab Delhi aaya to ek ajeeb sa mahaul dikha... ab dimag ke ek hisse me corona hai aur dusre me natak. Savdhan hoke manch pe chalna padega.

Catch It Live What: Pehla Satyagrahi Where: Open Air Auditorium, National School of Drama When: October 2 to 4 Timing: 6.30pm Nearest Metro Station: Mandi House on Blue and Violet Line

Author tweets @HennaRakheja

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According to the Centre for Suicide Prevention, there have been other studies that have too noted this correlation between sensational portrayals of suicide by the media versus the risk of attempted suicide and suicide rates. Media reporting on suicide can cause a 1 to 2% variance in suicides

"In the age of rage bait and juicing TRPs for viewership, journalists have thrown every rule book out just for numbers. If journalism is going to turn into a game of numbers, then everyone is at a risk," said author and columnist Nilanjana Roy when asked why several newsrooms in India demonstrated a lack of sensitivity and empathy while reporting on deaths by suicide. "Some of the reporting done these days drives people to despair," Roy further said.

The death of Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput has brought forth a huge moral crisis that has befallen the Indian media. This is not the first time a celebritys death has garnered so much attention. But there has been a worrisome trend in the way in which the media has chosen to report on his death by suicide by embracing a language that is not only detracting to the deceased and his family but also problematic on a more fundamental level.

The impact of sensational reporting of suicide and the subsequent increase in suicide rates was first studied in 1974 by Philips DP, who found suicide rates to be higher in the months where the US press had front-page articles on suicide, compared to months where there were no such articles. He coined the term Werther effect.

According to the Centre for Suicide Prevention, there have been other studies that have too noted this correlation between sensational portrayals of suicide by the media versus the risk of attempted suicide and suicide rates. Media reporting on suicide can cause a 1 to 2 percent variance in suicides, according to Ayal Schaffer, professor of psychiatry at the University of Toronto. Assuming a conservative 8 lakh suicide deaths is reported each year globally (as per WHO data), about 8,000 to 16,000 lives are affected, where the language and imagery used by the media can have a decisive impact.

Among the key factors that appeared to create an uptick in numbers were: the suicide method appearing in the headline, reports that firearm suicides had the highest lethality, heavy detail on the suicide method, and statements that made suicide seem inevitable.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the word suicide is defined as the act of killing oneself. The act must be deliberately initiated and performed by the person concerned in the full knowledge, or expectation, of its fatal outcome.

As per 2019 National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, a total of 1,39,123 suicides were reported in India an increase of 3.4 percent in comparison to 2018, which saw 1,34,516 suicides. Hindustan Times reported that a person died by suicide every four minutes in 2019.

In recent times, the coronavirus induced lockdown has added to the woes of the general public with a rise in job losses and pay cuts. According to the study conducted by a group of researchers, suicide has found to be the leading cause for over 300 non-coronavirus deaths reported during the lockdown period. Researchers found that 338 deaths which occurred between 19 March and 2 May this year were related to lockdown.

Local NGOs have also seen a rise in the duration of distress emails and calls ever since the lockdown began. Connecting Trust, a Pune-based suicide prevention non-profit organisation (NGO) saw a double-fold increase in distress emails from 15 to 30 per month during the lockdown period.

Liyaan Sataravala, an awareness program coordinator for Connecting Trust told Firstpost that while the number of calls per day did not see a noticeable change, the duration of distress calls was longer ever since the lockdown began.

We on average receive five calls a day, with approximately 123 calls per month. But ever since the lockdown started, we noticed an increase in the duration of each call, which now is approximately 45 minutes per call, said Sataravala.

Taking notice of the potential influence by the media, the India Mental Health Observatory (IMHO), an initiative of the Centre for Mental Health Law and Policy at Indian Law Society, has developed a scorecard to rate media reports on suicide in India.

The initiative named Project SIREN evaluated nine leading English newspapers in India, which includes all city editions, for the second quarter  1 April, 2020 to 30 June, 2020 scrutinising 1,318 articles on suicide and attempted suicide.

The nine English newspapers included are The Times of India, Hindustan Times, The Hindu, The Indian Express, The New Indian Express, The Telegraph, Mirror, The Tribune, and The Economic Times.

The IMHO developed a scorecard, which consists of both positive and negative parameters, derived from the WHO guidelines on Media Reporting of Suicides.

According to this scorecard, The Hindu did well on the April to June scorecard, while publications like The Tribune and Mirror performed poorly.

The parameters chosen for the positive scorecard are newspapers that follow most of the WHO guidelines, including verified information and facts from an official source, challenges popular myths about suicide, includes information on national or state-level support services that include suicide prevention centres.

The negative scorecard includes articles with attention-grabbing headlines, use of phrases that associate suicide as a crime or sin, reduces the reason for death to a single factor or event.

Sr No Newspaper Positive scorecard Negative scorecard 1 The Times of India 1.12 3.37 2 Hindustan Times 1.31 3.28 3 The New Indian Express 1.07 3.42 4 The Telegraph 1.03 3.37 5 The Hindu 2.71 2.35 6 The Indian Express 1.49 3.32 7 Mirror 1.32 4.13 8 The Tribune 1 4.04 9 The Economic Times 1.13 3.25

*For the positive scorecard, the best score a newspaper can get is 10, and the worst is 0. On the negative scorecard, the best score that a newspaper can get is 0 and the worst is 10.

As per the study, The Hindu outperformed other publications as its copies, about 88 percent, had included contact information for suicide prevention helplines. The newspaper had published 133 articles on suicides and attempted suicides from April to June 2020 from 11 editions across the country.

The Tribune performed poorly on the studys positive scorecard as the IMHO found that about 15 percent of the articles published by the newspaper drew a link between the mental state of the individual and their suicidal behaviour, which is against the mandated WHO guidelines. The IMHO studied 27 articles from the newspaper on suicides and attempted suicides from April to June 2020, from 7 editions across the country.

Mirror ranked lowest on the negative scorecard of the study which had 78 articles on suicides and attempted suicides from April to June 2020, from four editions across the country. About 91 percent of the 78 articles had attention-grabbing headlines.

While The Hindu has done relatively well in comparison to its competitors, there is still a long way to go for responsible reporting in Indian media.

'Aim to help media reflect on their reporting'

Dr Soumitra Pathare, director of the Centre for Mental Health Law and Policy in Pune, who heads Project SIREN, told Firstpost that the purpose of the study was not to name and shame the media, but rather to point a mirror at them to reflect on their reporting.

Pathare noted that even though the WHO and the Press Council of India had come out with guidelines on suicide reporting, almost nobody follows them.

When asked if the study was specifically born out of a need to study the number of deaths due to suicide during the lockdown, Pathare said that it wasnt the case here. The study was initiated as a tool for suicide prevention and to track reports of suicide attempts and deaths by suicide to encourage greater uptake of good reporting practices across media platforms.

Project SIREN, which studied 107 newspaper editions across 90 days, plans to keep updating this scoreboard in a way of keeping tabs on reportage of suicides in newspapers, Pathare said. Our hope is to continue this study every quarter, so that by the end of the year, we can actually study if there has been any improvement or not in the kind of language used by the media.

He also said that while the current study only looked at print media, the IMHO plans to further continue this study to cover online media publications like Scroll.in, Firstpost, The Wire and The Quint.

Importance of language while reporting

As per data by the WHO, India accounts for 36.6 percent of global suicides among women and 24.3 percent among men.

By using language that does not sensationalises or normalises suicide or presents it as a constructive solution to the problems, the media can help save 1-2 percent of the global population, making it paramount for journalists to take this more seriously.

The WHO guidelines clearly state: avoid sensationalising; avoid mention of the method of suicide; avoid photos; mention suicide helplines; emphasise that it is a symptom and treatable; and, avoid repetition of stories.

For example, a significant aspect of news reporting that cannot be overlooked is the news headline. The use of various words and statements in the media is not only triggering for the general population but more so for the people who might be in a vulnerable mental state.

For instance, the phrase committed suicide is problematic as it equates the act with criminality. Another common mistake that publications often ignore is the use of visuals of the deceased person, without adequate trigger warnings.

These common representations in the media are terms as suicide contagion, which refers to an increase in suicide or suicidal behaviour after following or exposure to news. Publications are also instructed to provide helpline numbers or give alternatives, which helps create a safe way of documenting death, without risking or triggering anyone.

With studies observing a rise in deaths by suicide during the coronavirus pandemic and the current public discourse about Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajputs death by suicide, there is an urgent need for media to focus on responsibly reporting on suicide.

While this is not the first time a celebrity's death has garnered national media attention, the aggressive and often triggering language used by the media channels, print and on TV, has been criticised severely.

Last week Trinamool Congress MP Pratima Mondal told the Parliament that Indian media had marked a "new low" while reporting the Sushant Singh Rajput case. Even the Press Council had to step in and direct media outlets to stop violating 'norms of journalistic conduct' while covering the late actor's death.

Firstpost spoke to journalists and experts to understand the importance of language in media, the grey area of reporting, and the way ahead for future journalists.

Experts stress on reporting language and context

Sanity correspondent at The Correspondent and suicide-prevention activist Tanmoy Goswami highlights the importance of language in reporting. Language that indicates suicide is a way to "escape" difficult situations ends up legitimizing self-harm as an appropriate response to life's vagaries, he told Firstpost.

Furthermore, carelessly invoking "depression" in every story on suicide can not only be considered illegal per the Mental Healthcare Act 2017, but also give the impression that mental illness necessarily leads to suicide  which is a "gross exaggeration", he added.

Goswami notes that in the case of celebrity suicides, Language that is respectful and memorialises the life of the deceased rather than picking apart every detail around their death can have a salutary effect on the public mood.

A grey area

One of the WHO guidelines notes that suicide reportage should not be given prominence, which is problematic in the Indian context. According to author and columnist Nilanjana Roy, instead of giving prominence to individual cases of suicides, the reportage should highlight the problems faced by the community as a whole.

This would be a good way to highlight the context of the death tacitly, rather than pinpointing it on one individual as it puts immense pressure on the victim and their family, Roy said.

Amrita Tripathi, founder-editor of The Health Collective, too felt that an individual person and familys tragedy doesnt need to be on the front page.

Sometimes the media forgets that these are real people and real stories," Tripathi said. "The media can still be careful to remove the reference to the means of suicide, refer to data, and share helplines, to make it an informative, rather than sensational story. It should also start talking about some of the structural issues at play, have reporters engage with organisations who are working in this field to effect change.

Going ahead

Journalists have to take it upon themselves to bring about awareness in their reporting.

I think once this message reaches home that this can save lives and that suicide is preventable, they will automatically want to do better. The key has to be awareness-building and sensitising! said Tripathi.

Goswami feels that the trick to responsible reporting may be placing oneself in place of the victims family and questioning what public interest does the story serve. He said, Personally, I always ask myself how I'd feel if I read a disrespectful, sensational story on the death of a loved one that violates the family's privacy, speculates about the death, and ends up endangering other vulnerable people who might be reading the story.

A collection of Suicide prevention helpline numbers is available here. Please reach out if you or anyone you know is in need of support. The All-India helpline number is: 022 2754 6669. Connecting Trust distress helpline: 9922004305, 9922001122 and distress email is: distressmailsconnecting@gmail.com
African nations came out swinging on the third day of the United Nations annual gathering of world leaders Thursday, calling for dramatic fiscal measures to help economies survive the coronavirus pandemic  which one leader called the fifth horseman of the apocalypse.

African countries estimate they need $100 billion in support annually for the next three years, pointing out its a fraction of the trillions of dollars some richer countries are using to revive their economies.

Debt cancellation is needed to free up more resources to tackle the virus and its effects, including the fight against other deadly diseases like malaria and HIV, heads of state said.

We need to purely and simply cancel this debt, said Nigers president, Issoufou Mahamadou.

The president of Ivory Coast, one of the worlds fastest-growing economies before the pandemic, called for the extension of a debt moratorium and the issue of special drawing rights at the International Monetary Fund.

I call on all Africas partners to take bolder measures, Alassane Ouattara said, noting that the fight against COVID-19 and its economic effects has represented 5% of the countrys GDP.

The pandemic has exposed the poor funding of health systems across Africa. In a separate briefing Thursday, a World Health Organization official said just 51% of health facilities in sub-Saharan Africa have basic water services.

In their speeches to fellow world leaders delivered virtually by video messages because of the pandemic, some African heads of state pointed out what Ouattara called an extraordinary resilience in the face of the virus. But they made it clear massive help is needed, and some acknowledged they must do more, too.

The Ivory Coast leader, for one, pledged that his country will invest $3 billion in its health system from 2021-2025.

Health experts say Africa so far has fared far bette r than the dire predictions made early in the pandemic. There have been over 1.4 million confirmed cases on the continent of 1.3 billion people.

Researchers say possible factors include Africas relative youth, the later arrival of the virus on the continent and swift and severe lockdown measures that have taken a harsh economic toll.

Burkina Fasos President Roch Marc Christian Kabore recalled the U.N. chiefs speech early this year warning against the four horsemen of the apocalypse, including geopolitical tensions and climate change,

Unfortunately," he said, less than two months later, a fifth horseman of the apocalpyse, very destructive, the coronavirus, has appeared.
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THE TRIAL OF THE CHICAGO 7



(MA) 129 minutes

Netflix

Aaron Sorkin's The Trial of the Chicago 7 may not be the squarest film ever made about 1960s radicalism; Stanley Kramer's 1970 R.P.M., with Anthony Quinn and Ann-Margret, remains stiff competition. Still, this loose "true story" is exactly what you would expect from Sorkin, in some respects Kramers successor as the screen poet laureate of American liberalism.

Jeremy Strong (left) as Jerry Rubin in The Trial of the Chicago 7. Credit:Niko Tavernise/Netflix

Chicago 7 is only the second feature Sorkin has directed. He is known above all as a TV showrunner, especially on the high-minded political soap opera The West Wing. But his screenwriting credits stretch back to 1992, when he adapted the courtroom drama A Few Good Men from his own Broadway play, allowing Jack Nicholson to bellow "You can't handle the truth!"

Some historical facts are in order  and boy, does Sorkin love exposition, almost as much as he loves grandstanding. The Chicago Seven, originally the Chicago Eight, were a group of radicals charged with conspiracy and inciting to riot following the protests that disrupted the 1968 Democratic National Convention, with opposition to the Vietnam War then at its height.
Ed Slott received the Sidney Kess Award for Excellence in Continuing Education, and Zach Thies received the P. Thomas Austin Personal Financial Planning Scholarship.

The Sidney Kess Award recognizes CPAs who have made significant and outstanding contributions in tax and financial planning and whose public service exemplifies the CPA profession's values and ethics. Slott is a past chairman of the New York State Society of CPAs Estate Planning Committee and editor of the IRA planning section of the CPA Journal. As president and founder of Ed Slott and Company LLC, he provides advanced IRA training to financial professionals.

The P. Thomas Austin Personal Financial Planning Scholarship, which was established to honor Austin, a CPA who chaired the AICPA's Advanced Estate Planning Conference for three decades and is currently chair emeritus, covers the cost of attending the Advanced Estate Planning Conference, as well as related travel expenses, for CPAs who have less than 10 years of experience. Thies is a financial planner with Creative Planning Inc. in Iowa City, Iowa, where he uses his tax expertise to design and implement planning strategies to reduce overall client income tax liabilities. He also received an AICPA PFP Standing Ovation Award in 2019.
A new study by an international team of environmental scientists in the Brazilian Amazon shows that redesigned conservation projects could deliver big gains for critical freshwater ecosystems - raising hopes for the futures of thousands of species.

A new study by an international team of environmental scientists in the Brazilian Amazon shows that redesigned conservation projects could deliver big gains for critical freshwater ecosystems - raising hopes for the futures of thousands of species.

Although occupying less than one per cent of the Earth's surface, fresh water hosts around a tenth of all known species - including a third of all vertebrates.

They are also vital for regulating climates, and as a source of food and fuel for local people.

Despite their critical nature, freshwater ecosystems are far more imperilled than their land and marine counter-parts.

Over the last 50 years, populations of freshwater vertebrates have plummeted by 83 per cent - more than twice the fall of terrestrial and marine vertebrates, which have declined by around 40 per cent over the same period.

This dramatic fall in freshwater biodiversity has been caused through a mixture of human-driven factors including: habitat loss and degradation; over-exploitation and over-fishing; algal blooms; dam building; and the introduction of non-native species. These pressures are now being amplified by additional stresses such as climate change, microplastics and biochemical pollution.

New conservation measures are urgently needed globally to help address the plight of freshwater ecosystems, and the species that live in them. Yet, despite all this, ecosystems on land have gained much more attention from conservation scientists than freshwater ecosystems.

Published in the journal Science, the new study assessed more than 1,500 freshwater and land species in the Brazilian Amazon. The major groups of freshwater species they scientists looked at included fish, dragonflies, mayfly, stoneflies and caddisflies. They also looked at land species including plants, birds and dung beetles.

The research, undertaken by the Sustainable Amazon Network - a research collaboration involving scientists from Brazil, Europe, USA and Australia - looked at how well freshwater species are protected through conservation efforts directed at land species.

Co-lead author Dr Cecilia Gontijo Leal from the University of Sao Paulo explained: "Conservation projects generally focus on protecting species that live on land. If freshwater species are considered at all, it is simply assumed that they will be protected incidentally - that is, by chance, as a result of efforts to conserve land species. However, we show that land-based conservation initiatives are likely to protect just 20% of the freshwater species that would have been protected through freshwater-focused conservation. To address the freshwater biodiversity crisis, freshwater species need to be explicitly incorporated into conservation planning."

The researchers then considered how much freshwater protection could be increased through conservation actions that simultaneously considered both freshwater and land species.

They found that conservation efforts with increased focus on freshwater environments could deliver big positive gains for these ecosystems, without adversely affecting ecosystems on land.

Co-lead author Dr Gareth Lennox from Lancaster University said: "Through integrated planning that incorporates information on both freshwater and land species, we found that protection of freshwater species can be increased by up to 600% with no reduction in land species protection. This presents a great opportunity for conservation, where protection for one species group does not require either losses of protection for others or significant funding increases."

The study also addressed the challenge of how to put this into practice. Land species have generally been the focus of conservation efforts, therefore information on the distribution of freshwater species is lacking in many places, especially in tropical regions where most species are found. This poses a problem for conservation planning: how do you protect species if you don't know where they are?

The researchers developed a new method for protecting freshwater species in these circumstances. Professor Silvio Ferraz from the University of Sao Paulo explained: "Freshwater species crucially depend on the connectivity of river systems. By designing conservation reserve networks that take such connectivity into consideration, we found that freshwater protection could still be doubled in the absence of species distribution data. This shows that there are few impediments to vastly improving freshwater conservation in data-poor regions of the world."

Professor Jos Barlow from Lancaster University summed up the implications of the study: "The urgency of the biodiversity crisis now facing humanity means that we can no longer overlook the many important and endangered species that inhabit freshwaters. Our findings show that conservation that thinks across ecosystems and habitats can provide substantially improved outcomes compared to more narrowly focused efforts."

Although the study did not address specific conservation methods for freshwater or terrestrial species, it can be used as a guide to identify priority areas elsewhere, which will inform the development and deployment of the most suitable conservation methods.

The research is outlined in the paper 'Integrated terrestrial-freshwater planning doubles conservation of tropical aquatic species'.

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While some termed Rahul and Priyanka's response to the situation 'commendable', others noted the 'impunity' with which the Uttar Pradesh Police 'attacked' the Opposition leaders

Amid the national outrage over the Hathras gangrape and murder incident, Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra have garnered support from journalists and activists for trying to push for justice in the case.

The two leaders were reportedly arrested on Thursday after they set out on foot to meet the gangrape victim's families in Hathras. Earlier the police had stopped their convoy on the way to visiting Hathras.

Congress leader Randeep Surjewala tweeted a video showing Rahul allegedly being roughed up as he marched forward on the Yamuna Expressway. Pictures of him falling down in the melee were also shared by the Congress.

Meanwhile, PTI reported that Rahul and Priyanka have been released and are travelling back to Delhi. They are being escorted by the Uttar Pradesh Police, the report added.

Soon after the scuffle on Thursday evening, Priyanka tweeted that an "arrogant" government was "demonstrating power over the dead bodies of innocent girls". "Instead of preventing injustice, it is conducting injustice itself. Our struggle will continue for a safe society and state for women - where they can live freely and move forward," she added in a tweet in Hindi.

                    ,               -           -      Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) October 1, 2020

While some termed Rahul and Priyanka's response to the situation "commendable", others noted the "impunity" with which the state police had "attacked" the Opposition leaders.

"If they can attack Rahul Gandhi, in front of cameras, we are all sitting ducks," said journalist Suchitra Vijayan, adding, "Using violence against dissent and protest is what the state always does."

This is not about @RahulGandhi

This is about the immense power and impunity of the Hindu Rashtra.

Using violence against dissent and protest is what the state always does.

If they can attack Rahul Gandhi, in front of cameras, we are all sitting ducks. pic.twitter.com/DlXCj8iWJ7  Suchitra Vijayan (@suchitrav) October 1, 2020

JD(S) supremo Deve Gowda said that the state government should behave with "great care and caution" because the Congress leaders, along with others, are "fighting a just cause".

UP government should treat @INCIndia senior leaders @RahulGandhi @priyankagandhi and others with great care and caution. They are fighting for a just cause. Protest is a democratic right. They should be released immediately. @myogiadityanath  H D Devegowda (@H_D_Devegowda) October 1, 2020

Activist and Congress ideologue Tehseen Poonawalla too slammed the UP cops for "pushing and detaining" the Gandhis for tyring to meet the victim's families.

A leader from the opposition is walking peacefully to #Hathras to meet the family of the victims of the #HathrasCase . The @Uppolice that allowed the #HathrasHorror is now pushing and detaining #RahulGandhi ji & #PriyankaGandhi ji !! pic.twitter.com/vH8IyAH2Nu  Tehseen Poonawalla Official (@tehseenp) October 1, 2020

SC lawyer Karuna Nundy tweeted:

Smashing the opposition by evicting them from their Rajya Sabha votes, criminal cases and now actual assault by the State should tell you where we are today. https://t.co/WhQIE3JzYq  Karuna Nundy (@karunanundy) October 1, 2020

.@RahulGandhi and @priyankagandhi doing the right thing at last. Peoples struggles are fought on the streets, not on Twitter. #HathrasCase  nikhil wagle (@waglenikhil) October 1, 2020

You arent an opposition leader until youve taken a few lathis and are taken into preventive custody several times: George Fernandes. #RahulGandhi  Rajdeep Sardesai (@sardesairajdeep) October 1, 2020

"What is the Congress party doing?" It is in the streets. Facing hostile policemen. Commendable the way Rahul and Priyanka have responded to the situation.  Parth MN (@parthpunter) October 1, 2020

Maro muje maro says @RahulGandhi & lawless Yogi police attacks. Notably Gandhi does not retaliate video @sagarikaghosepic.twitter.com/mOn3CyXL6X  Swati Chaturvedi (@bainjal) October 1, 2020

Can you imagine a police officer grabbing any BJP leaders collar this way? (No idea who took the photo. It was forwarded to me.) pic.twitter.com/yOjMsOJlCN  Deepanjana (@dpanjana) October 1, 2020

According to reports, before his arrest, Rahul had questioned senior Uttar Pradesh cops over the law under which he was being stopped by them. He added that he wanted to walk alone towards Hathras to meet the rape victim's family.

"Can you tell me under which law can you stop me from marching towards Hathras?" he asked the cops.

"I want to go alone to Hathras and on what basis can you arrest me?" he said, to which the cops told him that he had violated Section 188 of the IPC of disobeying the orders promulgated by the government during the pandemic.

Others Congress leaders too voiced their support to the Gandhis.

"Lala Lajpat Rai had said that every blow of a stick on my body would prove to be the last nail in the coffin of the British Raj. The sticks on Rahulji and Priyankaji's convoy will also prove to be the last nail in the coffin of the Yogi government," Surjewala said in a tweet in Hindi.

In an article on Gulf News, journalsit Swati Chaturvedi quoted a Congress leader as saying, "It is not Gandhi being pushed to the ground it is Indian democracy.

Former Union minister P Chidambaram alleged that none of the country's laws seemed to apply to the Uttar Pradesh Police. "UP police is a law into itself. None of the laws of the country seem to apply to it," he alleged.

"What is wrong if the leaders of a political party protest against a gruesome crime and wish to visit the victim's family," he asked on Twitter.

Chidambaram said the two leaders were not violent, they did not carry arms and they were lodging a peaceful protest. "Why should the police stop them from protesting peacefully? Why should the UP Police arrest the two leaders and take them away?"

"I hope the court where the leaders will be produced will release them," he said.
Rockville Centre, N.Y.  A Roman Catholic diocese in New York Citys suburbs has become the largest in the U.S. to declare bankruptcy to protect itself from a wave of lawsuits filed over past sexual abuse by clergy members.

The Diocese of Rockville Centre filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Thursday. It is the eighth largest diocese or archdiocese in the U.S., serving more than 1.4 million Catholics on Long Island.

The financial burden of the litigation has been severe and only compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic, Bishop John Barres, the spiritual leader of the diocese that serves 1.4 million Catholics on Long Island, said in a video posted on the dioceses website. Our goal is to make sure that all clergy sexual abuse survivors and not just a few who were first to file lawsuits are afforded just and equitable compensation.

Barres said more than 200 lawsuits alleging sexual abuse by clergy members have been filed against the diocese since the 2019 passage of New Yorks Child Victims Act, which suspended the statute of limitations to allow sex abuse victims to pursue decades-old allegations of abuse against clergy members, teachers and other adults.

What became clear was that the diocese was not going to be able to carry out its spiritual, charitable and educational missions if it were to continue to shoulder the increasingly heavy burden of litigation expenses associated with these cases, Barres said.

The diocese started an independent compensation program in 2017 to provide settlements for victims of past sexual abuse and has so far paid more than $62 million to about 350 survivors under the program, officials said. Settlements may be higher for some accusers who did not participate in the program but chose instead to file lawsuits under the Child Victims Act.

The Rockville Centre diocese is the latest of more than 20 Catholic dioceses in the nation to file for bankruptcy in the face of lawsuits over sexual abuse. Syracuse, Buffalo and Rochester dioceses have also filed for bankruptcy.

Barres said most of the dioceses operations would continue despite the bankruptcy filing. He said employees and vendors would be paid.
China is preparing to launch an antitrust probe into Alphabet Inc's Google, looking into allegations it has leveraged the dominance of its Android mobile operating system to stifle competition, two people familiar with the matter said. The case was proposed by telecommunications equipment giant Huawei Technologies Co Ltd last year and has been submitted by the country's top market regulator to the State Council's antitrust committee for review, they added.

A decision on whether to proceed with a formal investigation may come as soon as October and could be affected by the state of China's relationship with the United States, one of the people said. The potential investigation follows a raft of actions by U.S. President Donald Trump's administration to hobble Chinese tech companies, citing national security risks.

This has included putting Huawei on its trade blacklist, threatening similar action for Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp and ordering TikTok owner ByteDance to divest the short-form video app. It also comes as China embarks on a major revamp of its antitrust laws with proposed amendments including a dramatic increase in maximum fines and expanded criteria for judging a company's control of a market.

A potential probe would also look at accusations that Google's market position could cause "extreme damage" to Chinese companies like Huawei, as losing the U.S. tech giant's support for Android-based operating systems would lead to loss of confidence and revenue, a second person said.

The sources were not authorised to speak publicly on the matter and declined to be identified. Google did not provide immediate comment, while Huawei declined to comment. China's top market regulator, the State Administration for Market Regulation, and the State Council did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

EUROPE'S EXAMPLE

The U.S. trade blacklist bars Google from providing technical support to new Huawei phone models and access to Google Mobile Services, the bundle of developer services upon which most Android apps are based. Google had a temporary licence that exempted it from the ban on Huawei but it expired in August.

It was not immediately clear what Google services the potential probe would focus on. Most Chinese smartphone vendors use an open-source version of the Android platform with alternatives to Google services on their domestic phones. Google's search, email and other services are blocked in China.

Huawei has said it missed its 2019 revenue target by $12 billion, which company officials have attributed to U.S. actions against it. Seeking to overcome its reliance on Google, the Chinese firm announced plans this month to introduce its proprietary Harmony operating system in smartphones next year.

Chinese regulators will be looking at examples set by their peers in Europe and in India if it proceeds with the antitrust investigation, the first source said. "China will also look at what other countries have done, including holding inquiries with Google executives," said the person.

The second source added that one learning point would be how fines are levied based on a firm's global revenues rather than local revenues. The European Union fined Google 4.3 billion euros ($5.1 billion) in 2018 over anticompetitive practices, including forcing phone makers to pre-install Google apps on Android devices and blocking them from using rivals to Google's Android and search engine.

That decision prompted Google to give European users more choice over default search tools and giving handset makers more leeway to use competing systems. Indian authorities are looking into allegations that Google is abusing its market position to unfairly promote its mobile payments app.
Related Pentagon chief heads to Algeria for North Africa security talks

US Secretary of Defense Mark Esper on Thursday held talks in Algeria on renewing a strategic alliance as the North African state tries to mediate in war-ravaged Libya and Mali while battling extremists at home.

Esper, the first American defence chief to visit Algiers since 2006, held a lengthy meeting with Algeria's President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, who also holds the post of defence minister, and the chief of staff, General Said Chanegriha as well as external security chief Mohamed Bouzit.

The two sides agreed to "consolidate the foundations of peace and security in the region, within the framework of unity and sovereignty of countries", an Algerian official statement read.

The US embassy said Esper "voiced support for expanding the military relationship and highlighted Algeria's steady leadership in regional security".

The two sides discussed "security throughout North Africa and the Sahel and ways to advance our strategic military and diplomatic partnership", it added.

Ahead of the visit, a senior US military official said Washington hoped "to deepen cooperation with Algeria on key regional security issues such as the threat posed by extremist groups".

Esper laid a wreath at the country's independence war memorial overlooking Algiers before talks with the president.

The defence chief, on a North Africa tour, arrived in Algiers after talks in neighbouring Tunisia and later travelled on to Morocco.

Esper became the first US defence minister to visit Algeria -- an ally of Russia, which supplies most of its weapons, and China -- since Donald Rumsfeld almost 15 years ago.

But ties between Washington and Algiers have been strengthened by their common aim to counter Islamist militants.

"Algeria is a committed counter-terrorism partner," General Stephen Townsend, head of US Africa Command, said on a recent visit to Algiers.

"Strengthening this relationship is very important to us," Townsend said. "Degrading violent extremist organisations... and enhancing regional stability is a mutual must."

- 'Pivotal state' -

Algeria is trying to reactivate its role on the regional diplomatic scene, including as a mediator in the conflicts in Mali and Libya.

Jihadist groups in Libya and the wider Sahel region have become an increasing concern since a NATO-backed uprising toppled and killed longtime dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011.

Mali, supported by France and UN peacekeepers, is struggling with an eight-year-old Islamist insurgency that has claimed thousands of lives.

"The Americans want to reposition themselves in the region, which has seen the arrival of new players like Turkey," said Algerian political scientist Mansour Kedidir.

"Algeria has always been considered by the Americans as a 'pivotal state' whose vulnerability can engulf the whole region if it is affected by jihadists."

The US and Algeria have historic ties -- a treaty of friendship was signed in 1795 -- while during Algeria's 1954-1962 war of independence from colonial rulers France, Washington reportedly pressured Paris to negotiate with Algerian nationalists.

"The United States has a strong bilateral security relationship with Algeria," said Michael Shurkin, from the California-based RAND Corporation policy think-tank.

The US relationship is crucial for another reason, Shurkin noted.

"The US role must also be seen in the context of Algeria's reluctance to work with France, which makes the US necessary for France with respect to French hopes for an integrated regional response to jihadism," Shurkin said.

France has 5,100 soldiers deployed across the Sahel as part of its anti-jihadist Operation Barkhane.

Washington is also likely interested in selling weapons to Algeria, which currently receives some 90 percent of its military supplies from Russia.

Just ahead of Esper's visit, army chief Chanegriha met with a top Russian military delegation for discussions on the state of "military cooperation between the two countries", Algeria's defence ministry said.

*This story was edited by Ahram Online.

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First author William Oestreich observing whales aboard the off the coast of Monterey Bay, California. Credit: Dr. Jeremy Goldbogen

Through the use of two advanced audio recording technologies, a collaboration of Monterey Bay researchers has found that blue whales switch from nighttime to daytime singing when they are starting to migrate.

The blue whale is the largest animal on Earth. It's also among the loudest.

"Sound is a vital mode of communication in the ocean environment, especially over long distances," said William Oestreich, a graduate student in biology at Stanford University's Hopkins Marine Station. "Light, or any sort of visual cue, is often not as effective in the ocean as it is on land. So many marine organisms use sound for a variety of purposes, including communicating and targeting food through echolocation."

Although whale songs have been studied for decades, researchers have had limited success in deciphering their meaning. Now, by recording both individual whales and their greater populations in the Northeast Pacific, researchers from Stanford and the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) have identified patterns in the trills and bellows of blue whales that indicate when the animals are migrating from their feeding grounds off the North American coast to their breeding grounds off Central America. Their research was published Oct. 1 in Current Biology.

"We decided to compare daytime and nighttime song patterns from month to month, and there, in the divergence and convergence of two lines, was this beautiful signal that neither of us really expected," said John Ryan, a biological oceanographer at MBARI and senior author of the paper. "As soon as that image popped up on the screen, Will and I were both like, 'Hello, behavior.'"

Further analysis across the five years of hydrophone recordings could reveal new information about blue whale migration, a 4,000-mile journey that ranks among the longest in the worldand which the creatures repeat every year. Despite the immensity of blue whales and their travels, scientists know very little about their behaviors, such as how they are responding to changes in the ecosystem and food supply from year to year. Being able to predict the travel of whales along this important route could also help prevent ship strikes.

A spectrogram, paired with audio at 10x speed, of whale song recorded from the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institution's MARS hydrophone. Credit: John Ryan/Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute

Supping and singing

To capture whales singing solo and in chorus, the researchers used two advanced recording technologies: an underwater microphoneor hydrophoneand tags that the researchers placed on individual whales.

In 2015, MBARI deposited a hydrophone 18 miles off the Monterey coast, 3,000 feet (900 meters) under sea level. The hydrophone is wired to their MARS undersea cabled observatory, which provides it with power and communications. This seafloor eavesdropper has recorded the deep ocean soundscape almost continuously for more than five years.

"The hydrophone fits in your hand," said Ryan, who recommends listening to the hydrophone livestream in fall for optimal whale music (although only the humpback whale song can be heard through ordinary speakers). "It's a little instrument that produces big dataabout two terabytes per month."

By focusing on the whale song wavelengths in the hydrophone data, the researchers noticed a distinct change over several months. Through the summers, the whale arias grew louder and were sung mostly at nighttime. Over the five years of data, the whale chorus was loudest around October and November, and singing happened more at nighttime. Following each annual peak in song activity, as the whales began to depart for warmer waters, singing became more of a daytime activity.

A blue whale with a visible data-logging tag placed on its back in Monterey Bay, California. Credit: William Oestreich. Taken under NMFS Permit #16111

While daytime versus nighttime differences in singing behavior had been noted in previous research, the whale-borne tags, developed by the lab of Stanford biologist Jeremy Goldbogen, helped explain what these 24-hour patterns and their inversion in late autumn could mean. Fifteen tags tracked the sounds of their carriers through accelerometer measurementswhich monitor vibrationsand, in some cases, integrated hydrophones. In the summer, the whales spent much of the daytime feasting, bulking up for the long journey ahead and reserved their musical interludes for nighttime. When the time came, migration was again accompanied by daytime songs.

"In the hydrophone data, we saw really strong patterns over this enormous spatial domain. When we saw the exact same pattern on individual animals, we realized that what we'd been measuring over hundreds of kilometers is actually a real behavioral signaland one that represents the behavior of many different whales," said Oestreich. "As an ecologist, it's very exciting to observe so many whales, simultaneously, using one instrument."

Listening and learning

This research lays the groundwork for possibly predicting blue whale migration based on the transitions between the different song schedulessuch forecasts could be used to warn shipping lanes further down the coast, like air traffic control but for the ocean. The researchers also hope that further analysis of the acoustic data will reveal more about whale behavior in response to environmental changes, such as warming waters and fickle food supplies.

"If, for example, we can detect differences in migration and foraging in response to changes in the environment, that is a really powerful and important way to keep an eye on this critically endangered species," said Goldbogen, who is an assistant professor of biology in the School of Humanities and Sciences and also senior author of the paper. "That's economically important, ecologically important and also culturally important."

Already, Oestreich is pursuing a related question: If we can use this signal to determine whether whales are foraging or migrating, are whales using it that way too? It's possible, said Oestreich, that a lone whale might listen around before giving up on feeding and heading south.

"Blue whales exist at incredibly low densities with enormous distances between them but, clearly, are sharing information in some way," said Oestreich. "Trying to understand that information sharing is one motivation, but also potentially using that signaling as a means to study them is another exciting possibility."

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Scott Reed, the top political adviser at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, said on Monday that he had resigned his post, citing what he described as a drift to the political left by the group in the wake of a string of endorsements of Democrats.

Mr. Reed, who was the campaign manager for former Senator Bob Dole when he was the Republican presidential nominee in 1996, also said there was a lack of commitment by the group to spend money to defend the Republican Senate majority ahead of the election on Nov. 3.

In an email, Michelle Russo, a spokeswoman for the group, insisted the chamber had taken action against Mr. Reed for cause.

An internal review has revealed that Reed repeatedly breached confidentiality, distorted facts for his own benefit, withheld information from chamber leadership and leaked internal information to the press, she said. We have the documentation of his actions and it is irrefutable. Our decision is not based on a disagreement over political strategy but rather it is the result of Reeds actions.
L eading Russian opposition activist Alexei Navalny has said he believes President Vladimir Putin was behind his poisoning.

"I assert that Putin is behind this act, I don't see any other explanation," he told German news magazine Der Spiegel in an interview.

Mr Navalny is recovering in Germany after becoming ill on a flight in Siberia in August. Germany says he was poisoned by a Novichok nerve agent, findings which were confirmed by labs in France and Sweden.

The Kremlin denies any involvement.

Mr Putin's spokesman said there was no evidence that Mr Navalny had been poisoned with a nerve agent, and said CIA agents were working with the opposition leader.

Mr Putin's spokesman has said there is no evidence Mr Navalny was poisoned by a nerve agent / Sputnik/AFP via Getty Images

Mr Navalny collapsed on a flight in Russia's from Tomsk to Moscow on August 20. The plane made an emergency landing in Omsk, where he spent two days in a coma before being transferred by a medical jet to the Charite hospital in Berlin.

In his first interview since he fell ill, published in Der Spiegel on Thursday, Mr Navalny, 44, said the order to use Novichok could only have come from the heads of three of Russia's intelligence services, who all work for Vladimir Putin.

"If 30 people have access to a [chemical] agent, and not three, then it's a global threat," he told the magazine.

Mr Navalny's supporters initially believed his tea had been spiked at Tomsk airport. However, traces of Novichok were later found on water bottles at the hotel where he had stayed the night before.

Speaking of his ordeal, Mr Navalny said: "You feel no pain, but you know you're dying. Straight away."

He said he had only been able to receive medical care because of "a chain of lucky circumstances".

Mr Navalny was flown to hospital in Berlin / Getty Images

I believe they were determined not to let me leave the country, and that is why they publicly declared I was not in a fit state to be transported, Navalny said. They were waiting for me to die. But because of support for me and the efforts of my wife, the whole thing turned into a kind of reality show, with the title Navalny dies in Omsk .

For Putins people it is important that they dont lend their enemies a victim status. If I had died in Omsk or left with permanent damage there, then the responsibility would have clearly been with them.

Asked why the Russian president would target him, Mr Navalny suggested that Mr Putin may have targeted him to avoid a "Belarus situation", referencing the weeks of mass anti-government protests in Belarus which followed a disputed election.

"The system is fighting for its survival and we've just felt the consequences."

Mr Navalny was released from the Charite hospital in Berlin last week. He is undergoing physiotherapy to help his recovery.

His spokeswoman said last week that his bank accounts had been frozen and his flat in Russia seized.

However, Mr Navalny told Der Spiegel he still intended to return to Russia.

"Not going back would mean that Putin had achieved his goal," he said. "I will not give Putin the gift of not returning to Russia."

The EU and several governments have called for Russia to investigate Mr Navalny's poisoning.

Russian ex-spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia were poisoned by a nerve agent from the Novichok group in Salisbury in 2018. Although they both survived, a local woman, Dawn Sturgess, died after coming into contact with the poison.

Moscow denied any involvement in the poisoning. However, Britain accused Russia's military intelligence of carrying out that attack, and twenty countries expelled more than 100 Russian diplomats and spies.
October 01 : Kartik Aaryan and Kiara Advani starrer Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 is set to resume shooting in Mumbai next month. However, director Anees Bazmee is finding it challenging to look for a place in the city to create his set.

Earlier, Anees wanted to resume shooting in Lucknow to maintain the continuity of the horror comedy film, but later keeping the pandemic situation in mind, the director started looking for a space in Mumbai to build the set. As many production houses have resumed shooting recently in Mumbai, he is finding the task difficult. The shooting of the film was halted due to the announcement of the lockdown in the country. The shooting of the film had kick-started in October last year.

Anees told Mid-Day that the production team is struggling to find a place where they can build the set as many plots have been already booked for shoots as many producers have already started off their projects. After they find a space, the team will set up a haveli replicating the interiors of the haveli that was constructed in Lucknow. The film has just 15 days schedule left to shoot, and will shoot most of the indoor portions in the city. After wrapping up the Mumbai schedule, the crew will head to Lucknow for some outdoor shoot.

Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 is bankrolled by Bhushan Kumar. The film that also stars Tabu is a standalone sequel of the 2007 film Bhool Bhulaiyaa directed by Priyadarshan.
Channel 4 have scored a huge ratings hit with their 2020 series of The Great British Bake Off.

It's been revealed that the first episode of the new series, which aired on September 22, had the biggest ratings of any programme - excluding films - to be shown on Channel 4 since 1985.

According to the broadcaster, consolidated viewing figures for the series 11 debut were 10.8 million.

They're a hit! The first episode of the 2020 series of The Great British Bake Off had the biggest ratings of any programme to be shown on Channel 4 since 1985

The TV premiere of the film Four Weddings And A Funeral on Channel 4 in 1995 attracted a higher audience of 12.4 million.

The biggest-ever audience in Channel 4's history remains 13.9 million, which was for the mini-series A Woman Of Substance in 1985.

The show was also the biggest overnight launch audience for the series since its move from the BBC, with overnight ratings averaging 6.9 million viewers.

The cooking competition left BBC One in a 75million switchover in 2016.

Light-hearted relief: Bake Off opened with new host Matt Lucas impersonating a bumbling Boris Johnson who urged viewers to 'Stay Alert, Protect Cake and Save Loaves'

The first episode of the new Bake Off series saw Matt Lucas make his debut on the programme as he replaced previous co-host Sandi Toksvig, joining co-host Noel Fielding and judges Prue Leith and Paul Hollywood.

The start of the debut episode for series 11 was delayed by 15 minutes to make room for Prime Minister Boris Johnson's address at 8pm, which three million people tuned in for on Channel 4.

Bake Off played up to the schedule clash, opening the episode with new presenter Matt impersonating a bumbling Boris who urged viewers to 'Stay Alert, Protect Cake and Save Loaves.'

Get set, bake! According to the broadcaster, consolidated viewing figures for the series 11 debut were 10.8 million

The series had already seen it's start date pushed back by a month from its usual late August slot after filming was delayed by lockdown.

The production worked to ensure COVID-19 restrictions would not impact the close-knit nature of the show.

All 12 bakers, presenters Matt Lucas and Noel Fielding, judges Prue Leith and Paul Hollywood along with the entire crew lived together in an isolation bubble for six weeks in order to film.

New host: The series had already seen it's start date pushed back by a month from its usual late August slot after filming was delayed by lockdown

The production took over luxury hotel Down Hall in Hertfordshire with all cast and crew living together on site for the duration of the shoot, undergoing regular COVID-19 testing and living away from their families.

This allowed the bakers and the judges and presenters to forgo social distancing in the famous tent.

The opening episode provided plenty of drama when it eventually got underway, with the stand-out moment coming during the Technical Challenge.

Cake-gate: The opening episode provided plenty of drama with the stand-out moment coming during the Technical Challenge

Baker Sura accidentally knocked Dave's pineapple upside-down cakes onto the floor while attempting to shoo away a fly, leading to plenty of tears.

Elsewhere, in the Showstopper challenge the 12 home-bakers were tasked with replicating a bust of their heroes in sponge cake, leading to a collapsing Freddie Mercury and a jaw-dropping Marie Antoinette.

Great British Bake Off continues on Channel 4 on Tuesday nights at 8pm.
IN THIS year of agitation and crisis, the last thing the American public needs is more empty political theater. When it comes to a new round of support for the pandemic-battered economy, however, that is mostly what Congress and the White House have delivered. Unemployment is still over 8 percent, households and small businesses are strapped for cash, and Federal Reserve officials are warning of limits to what their institution can do. There is evident need for a sequel to the main relief measure passed so far  the $2.2 trillion Cares Act, adopted six months ago. Yet, so far, Congress and the White House have failed to replicate the bipartisan agreement that produced the Cares Act, even after the expiration of key provisions, such as extra unemployment benefits.
President Klaus Iohannis will attend the meeting of the European Council in Brussels on Thursday and Friday, which includes topics such as the European Union's Single Market, industrial policy and the Union's digital policy, according to a Presidential Administration release, according to Agerpres.

European leaders will also address foreign policy issues, mainly the Union's relations with China and Turkey.

"The President of Romania will advocate for a strong and consolidated Single Market, which can support the development of the member states of the Union. In this sense, he will support the need to identify means to restore the proper functioning of the Single Market after the COVID-19 crisis and to implement the measures to consolidate it. At the same time, President Klaus Iohannis will show that a more integrated Single Market means a more connected and inclusive Single Market, which is why the development of transport, energy, environment and digital infrastructure is essential for countries such as Romania, located on the geographical periphery of the Union," the release reads.

The head of state will support efforts in favor of a strong, resilient and globally competitive European industry. In this context, President Iohannis will emphasize that the modernization effort required for the double transition - green and digital - will demand massive investments, thus contributing to stimulating the European Union's competitiveness and strategic autonomy.

"President Klaus Iohannis will address the need to ensure full complementarity between strategic autonomy in various sectors and the opening up of the European economy, one of the fundamental values of the Union. At the same time, President Klaus Iohannis will emphasize that EU strategic autonomy must be built on a market full and functional internal affairs," mentions the Presidential Administration.

The President will welcome the importance given at Union level to the process of digital transformation of Europe, as well as the important funds that will be granted for the development of advanced digital technologies and very high capacity network infrastructures throughout the European Union.

"President Klaus Iohannis will mention that the Single Market poses, in addition to undeniable opportunities, challenges in the social field. In this regard, the President of Romania will emphasize the need to protect vulnerable groups, including seasonal workers, whose situation must be improved through the common action of European institutions and of the member states of the Union," shows the Presidential Administration.
LONDON - Julian Assange's conversations in the latter part of his 7-year stay at the Ecuadorian Embassy in London were systematically bugged, even in the toilet, a London court heard Wednesday.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 30/9/2020 (479 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

FILE - In this Friday, Feb. 5, 2016 file photo, Wikileaks founder Julian Assange appears at the window before speaking on the balcony of the Ecuadorean Embassy in London. A London court has heard that Julian Assanges conversations in the latter part of his seven-year stay at the Ecuadorian Embassy in London were systematically bugged, even in the toilet. Two anonymous witnesses who worked for a Spanish firm with a security contract at the embassy said the WikiLeaks founder faced an intensifying bugging operation after Donald Trump became U.S. president. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth, File)

LONDON - Julian Assange's conversations in the latter part of his 7-year stay at the Ecuadorian Embassy in London were systematically bugged, even in the toilet, a London court heard Wednesday.

In written statements at Assanges extradition hearing, two anonymous witnesses who worked for a Spanish firm with a security contract at the embassy said the WikiLeaks founder faced an intensifying bugging operation from 2017 onwards after Donald Trump became U.S. president.

Judge Vanessa Baraitser on Tuesday granted the two witnesses anonymity amid fears for their safety. Lawyers acting on behalf of the U.S. government did not contest the submission of the anonymous statements but said they were largely irrelevant to the matter under consideration in London's Old Bailey court.

The two witnesses alleged that David Morales, the director of Spanish security firm Undercover Global, switched to "the dark side" and had instructed the installation of cameras with sophisticated audio capabilities to secretly record Assange's meetings at the embassy, particularly those with his lawyers.

Assange lived in the embassy for seven years from 2012 after seeking refuge there while fearing his potential extradition to the U.S. He was evicted in April 2019 and has been in a London prison since.

The anonymous witnesses both claimed that Morales said the surveillance was initiated at the behest of "our American friends" and that he had been handsomely rewarded.

One of the witnesses said Morales travelled to Las Vegas around July 2016 to showcase the security firm and subsequently obtained a "flashy contract" with the Las Vegas Sands, which was owned by Sheldon Adelson, a wealthy associate of Trump's.

"After returning from one of his trips to the United States, David Morales gathered all the workers in the office in Jerez and told us that We have moved up and from now on we will be playing in the big league," the witness said.

The other anonymous witness, who was employed as an IT expert from 2015, alleged that while in Jerez, the city in southern Spain where UC Global's had its headquarters, Morales had said in December 2017 that "the Americans were desperate." The witness said a suggestion was made that "more extreme measures should be employed against the guest to put an end to the situation of Assanges permanence in the embassy."

Specifically, the witness said the idea was raised for the door to the embassy being left open, "which would allow the argument that this had been an accidental mistake, which would allow persons to enter from outside the embassy and kidnap the asylee." There was, the witness claimed, even a suggestion that Assange could be poisoned.

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"All of these suggestions Morales said were under consideration during his dealing with his contacts in the United States," the witness said.

The witness also alleged that Morales had asked him soon after to install a microphone in an extinguisher in an embassy meeting room, as well as in a toilet where Assange had been holding meetings due to concern he was the target of espionage.

"I used a nearby socket to conceal a microphone in a cable in the toilet in the back of the embassy," the witness said. "This was never removed, and may still be there."

U.S. prosecutors have indicted the 49-year-old Assange on 17 espionage charges and one charge of computer misuse over WikiLeaks publication of secret American military documents a decade ago. The charges carry a maximum sentence of 175 years in prison.

Assanges defence team says he is entitled to First Amendment protections for the publication of leaked documents that exposed U.S. military wrongdoing in Iraq and Afghanistan. They have also said he is suffering from wide-ranging mental health issues, including suicidal tendencies, that could be exacerbated if he ends up in inhospitable prison conditions in the U.S.

Assanges extradition hearing, which was delayed by the coronavirus pandemic, is due to end this week.
The Lagos State Police command said on Thursday that 30 protesters arrested in the state will face the court of law for unlawful gathering.

This was contained in a statement released by the police spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, following the arrest of the protesters at Maryland area of the metropolis.

The protesters who belonged to an organised body, Coalition for Revolution (CORE) came out in their numbers on Thursday bearing placards calling for a change of government in Nigeria.

The protest, which took off from Ojota around 9:30 a.m, proceeded to Maryland where the protest was halted by police officers with 30 of the protesters arrested.

The police command had earlier issued a warning against gatherings under the guise of rallies or protest on Independence Day, saying anyone caught will be arrested and charged to court.

The Lagos State Police command has arrested 30 protesters at various locations within the state for unlawful assembly and conduct likely to cause breach of public peace, and other offences including violation of COVID-19 protocols/laws in the state, police said.

The commissioner of police in the state, Hakeem Odumosu, also warned parents and guardians to warn their children and wards to desist from any rallies, protests or be mobilised to wage war against the government of Nigeria, or else they (parents or guardians) of any youth arrested for such act will be prosecuted.

The protesters, however, defied all odds and continued with the protest.

The police spokesperson said the protesters will be charged to court on Friday.

The arrested individuals, who put on crested vests of #RevolutionNow# with placards will be charged to court tomorrow, Friday, 2nd October, 2020, the police spokesperson said.
KALAMAZOO, MI  Friends, family members, colleagues of Vernon Coakley and city officials gathered at a local church Thursday to welcome the new Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety Chief during his swearing-in ceremony.

They gathered at Mt. Zion Baptist Church Thursday, Oct. 1, to welcome and celebrate the new chief through speeches, songs and prayer. In the sanctuary, attendees wore mask and were seated with every other row intentionally left empty as part of precautions tied to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vernon is a person that is active in our community, and is deeply invested n the success of the department, our city and the community at large, City Manager Jim Ritsema said during the ceremony. Vernon is a person that has been on the ground connecting with people during our communitys most tense situations.

Mayor David Anderson expressed support for the incoming chief on behalf of the city commission.

We are committed to supporting Chief Coakley to lead in a manner that creates and builds trust and community, serves and protects, provides responsive equitable public safety and contributes to building a community which we can all be proud to call our home," Anderson said.

The mayor said now is not an easy time to be a police chief.

We have been more focused than ever on the role of policing in this country, Anderson said.

Related: We as a community have to come together, Kalamazoo assistant police chief says

Coakley replaces Karianne Thomas, who recently announced her retirement as chief. Thomas' departure came as the city and police department faced criticism for the handling of events this summer, and citizens called for a change in leadership in the city and department.

Coakley embodies what is needed to be chief and will treat the responsibility as a sacred trust, Anderson said during the swearing-in event.

Coakley was sworn in by City Clerk Scott Borling, and they shook hands. Coakley hugged Ritsema.

The newly appointed chiefs wife, Vanessa Coakley, pinned the badge on her husbands uniform to mark the occasion.

The chief thanked his wife, his mother, his children and other family members and supporters. He took the microphone to address the crowd and to talk about what policing means to him. He thanked Ritsema for appointing him to the post.

I want to thank you for giving me this opportunity to serve this community on this spot on this day and moving for to take the men and women of KDPS to another level, thank you sir, Coakley said.

He thanked members of the city commission and told the whole room he is ready to get to work.

Were about to be on the ground. Were about to do work, he said to members of the city commission. Im going to show where accountability lies and it lies with me. Thank you so much again for allowing me to serve this community in this capacity.

Coakley talked about what it means to be a peacemaker," and said policing has changed over the years since he began as an officer in 1993. He said Jesus helped him understand what the word peacemaker means. It includes things like legitimacy, equity, diversity, inclusion, social justice and dialog, Coakley said.

The citys new chief said he is dedicated to increasing transparency and communicating with the city commission and community as a whole.

Coakley was promoted from captain to assistant chief in 2017. He has nearly 30 years of law enforcement experience and has served the Kalamazoo community since 1998, according to the city managers office.

Prior to Kalamazoo, he served in the Detroit Police Department for five years, starting in 1993. He has a bachelors degree from Western Michigan University and a masters degree from Ferris State University. He completed the Senior Management Institute for Police Program in 2010 and attended the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy in 2018, the city of Kalamazoo said.

Read more:

Kalamazoo commissioners briefed on hands-off police approach before violent event

Kalamazoo protesters call for fresh start from incoming chief during march to police headquarters

Karianne Thomas retires as Kalamazoo Public Safety chief
The European Commission had launched legal proceedings against the UK over the governments plan to break the Brexit withdrawal agreement.

Boris Johnson signed the treaty at the start of the year, but the government this month said it would pass legislation that could override part of what was agreed, breaking international law.

Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said in a statement in Brussels on Thursday that infringement proceedings would begin immediately, starting with a formal notice asking for the UK to provide an explanation.

We had invited our British friends to remove the problematic parts of their draft internal market bill by the end of September, she told reporters.

"This draft bill is by its very nature a beach of the obligation of good faith laid down in the withdrawal agreement. Moreover, if adopted as is, it will be in full contradiction of the protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland.

The deadline lapsed yesterday, the problematic provisions have not been removed. Therefore this morning the Commission has decided to send a letter of formal notice to the UK government. This is the first step in an infringement procedure.

She said that the letter would invite the UK government to submit its observations on the issue within a month.

Ms Von der Leyen added: "We stand by our commitments."

Michel Barnier, the EU's chief negotiator added: "Full and effective implementation of Withdrawal Agreement will always be an absolute priority for the EU.

"It is the result of long EU-UK negotiations and the only way to protect Good Friday (Belfast) Agreement, guaranteeing peace and stability on island of Ireland."

Following the statement Ms Von der Leyen held discussions with Irelands Taoiseach Micheal Martin.

The infringement procedure will allow the European Court of Justice to rule on whether the UK has violated its obligations. Any ruling would be binding on the UK at an international level, as the UK is subject to the courts rulings during the transition period.

Ministers have admitted that their legislation will break international law, but in a limited and specific way. The plan would override a commitment by Boris Johnson to put extra controls on trade between Northern Ireland and Great Britain, which are required under the treaty he signed as part of the EUs customs code.

The UK government now however says the so-called exit summary declarations are not necessary and would be disruptive for businesses.

World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital. In an Instagram post he said he could now breathe independently following his suspected poisoning last month Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP World news in pictures 14 September 2020 Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida celebrate after Suga was elected as new head of the ruling party at the Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election in Tokyo Reuters World news in pictures 13 September 2020 A man stands behind a burning barricade during the fifth straight day of protests against police brutality in Bogota AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 September 2020 Police officers block and detain protesters during an opposition rally to protest the official presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus. Daily protests calling for the authoritarian president's resignation are now in their second month AP World news in pictures 11 September 2020 Members of 'Omnium Cultural' celebrate the 20th 'Festa per la llibertat' ('Fiesta for the freedom') to mark the Day of Catalonia in Barcelona. Omnion Cultural fights for the independence of Catalonia EPA World news in pictures 10 September 2020 The Moria refugee camp, two days after Greece's biggest migrant camp, was destroyed by fire. Thousands of asylum seekers on the island of Lesbos are now homeless AFP via Getty World news in pictures 9 September 2020 Pope Francis takes off his face mask as he arrives by car to hold a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2020 A home is engulfed in flames during the "Creek Fire" in the Tollhouse area of California AFP via Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2020 A couple take photos along a sea wall of the waves brought by Typhoon Haishen in the eastern port city of Sokcho AFP via Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2020 Novak Djokovic and a tournament official tends to a linesperson who was struck with a ball by Djokovic during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta at the US Open USA Today Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 5 September 2020 Protesters confront police at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia, during an anti-lockdown rally AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 September 2020 A woman looks on from a rooftop as rescue workers dig through the rubble of a damaged building in Beirut. A search began for possible survivors after a scanner detected a pulse one month after the mega-blast at the adjacent port AFP via Getty World news in pictures 3 September 2020 A full moon next to the Virgen del Panecillo statue in Quito, Ecuador EPA World news in pictures 2 September 2020 A Palestinian woman reacts as Israeli forces demolish her animal shed near Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Reuters World news in pictures 1 September 2020 Students protest against presidential elections results in Minsk TUT.BY/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 31 August 2020 The pack rides during the 3rd stage of the Tour de France between Nice and Sisteron AFP via Getty World news in pictures 30 August 2020 Law enforcement officers block a street during a rally of opposition supporters protesting against presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus Reuters World news in pictures 29 August 2020 A woman holding a placard reading "Stop Censorship - Yes to the Freedom of Expression" shouts in a megaphone during a protest against the mandatory wearing of face masks in Paris. Masks, which were already compulsory on public transport, in enclosed public spaces, and outdoors in Paris in certain high-congestion areas around tourist sites, were made mandatory outdoors citywide on August 28 to fight the rising coronavirus infections AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 August 2020 Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bows to the national flag at the start of a press conference at the prime minister official residence in Tokyo. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. Dozens of fires are burning out of control throughout Northern California as fire resources are spread thin AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 August 2020 Students use their mobile phones as flashlights at an anti-government rally at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom. Thailand has seen near-daily protests in recent weeks by students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha AFP via Getty World news in pictures 17 August 2020 Members of the Kayapo tribe block the BR163 highway during a protest outside Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil. Indigenous protesters blocked a major transamazonian highway to protest against the lack of governmental support during the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic and illegal deforestation in and around their territories AFP via Getty World news in pictures 16 August 2020 Lightning forks over the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge as a storm passes over Oakland AP World news in pictures 15 August 2020 Belarus opposition supporters gather near the Pushkinskaya metro station where Alexander Taraikovsky, a 34-year-old protester died on August 10, during their protest rally in central Minsk AFP via Getty World news in pictures 14 August 2020 AlphaTauri's driver Daniil Kvyat takes part in the second practice session at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo near Barcelona ahead of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix AFP via Getty World news in pictures 13 August 2020 Soldiers of the Brazilian Armed Forces during a disinfection of the Christ The Redeemer statue at the Corcovado mountain prior to the opening of the touristic attraction in Rio AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 August 2020 Young elephant bulls tussle playfully on World Elephant Day at the Amboseli National Park in Kenya AFP via Getty

A UK government spokesperson said: We will respond to the letter in due course.

We have clearly set out our reasons for introducing the measures related to the Northern Ireland Protocol. We need to create a legal safety net to protect the integrity of the UKs internal market, ensure Ministers can always deliver on their obligations to Northern Ireland and protect the gains from the peace process.

In the European Parliament, MEPs warned that they might block an future trade agreement if the UK continued to defy the law.

"Breaking International law must have consequences. I welcome the steps taken by Ursula von der Leyen, but am saddened it has come to this," said Dacian Ciolos, a senior MEP who leads Emmanuel Macron's liberal Renew group.

The UK has diminished trust, which must now be restored and remedied if the European Parliament is to sign off any future relationship.
France to test 'flying taxis' from next year: operators Last year, Volocopter tested its airborne taxi in the heart of Singapore

"Flying taxis" will start taking off from an aerodrome north of Paris as soon as next June, operators said, in a trial ahead of a vast tourist influx for the 2024 Olympics.

The experiment will take place at the Pontoise-Cormeilles-en-Vexin aerodrome some 90 minutes northwest of the capital by car, according to a joint announcement by the Ile-de-France region, airports operator Groupe ADP and the RATP public transport agency.

A drone-like, fully-electric vertical take-off and landing vehicle (VTOL) dubbed VoloCity, produced by German company Volocopter, was chosen for the innovative trial with flying taxis in a peri-urban area, they said.

The partners said in a statement they had "decided to bring together all the conditions to make the emergence of this new mode of transport possible to complement the existing modes, whether for the public or for goods.

"Furthermore, the prospect of the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games provides an exceptional opportunity to involve an entire industry in order to make Paris Region a leader in the global market of urban air mobility."

The experiment will depend on the approval of residents, security protocols and air traffic regulations, said the companies.

In the first half of 2021, arrangements will be made for parking areas, recharging stations and ground markings for the demonstration.

Working with aviation safety agencies, the partners said "parking, takeoff and landing operations as well as operations around the vehicle, whether maintenance or electrical recharging, will be tested in a real aeronautical environment in June 2021."

VoloCity is equipped with 18 rotors and nine battery packs. Each can carry two passengers with hand luggage, for a maximum payload of 200 kilogrammes (440 pounds).

- 2030 rollout -

It flies at 110 kilometres (68 miles) per hour, at an altitude of 400 to 500 metres (1,312-1,640 feet), with a range of 35 kilometres (22 miles).

Story continues

Volocopter executive Fabien Nestmann said the craft's makers hoped for full certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency within two to three years.

"We want a demo for the 2024 Olympic Games," Valerie Pecresse, president of the Ile-de-France region, added at the launch news conference.

But it could take a decade for the project to be rolled out at scale.

"The day that you can buy a ticket (for a flying taxi) on the internet and take one, is more towards 2030, RATP CEO Catherine Guillouard told journalists.

In the long term, "we will be able to integrate mini take-off and landing zones into the urban fabric, which will require (public) acceptance, and the issue of noise will be key," she added.

In the quest to limit traffic pollution and ease congestion, the idea of flying taxis has taken route worldwide.

Volocopter has already tested its airborne taxi in different parts of the world, and last October chose Singapore for the first test in the heart of a city.

Several other companies are working on similar projects, including Boeing, Airbus, Toyota and Hyundai.

Earlier this month, Japanese firm SkyDrive showed its eight-propeller, manned compact vehicle flying around a test field.

sw/mlr/jj
A new life in Germany begins for a group of unaccompanied minors and vulnerable asylum seekers relocated from Greece.  IOM

Athens, Brussels, Geneva - The Government of Greece, together with IOM, the International Organization for Migration, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and UNICEF, the UN Childrens Fund today (30-09) welcomed the relocation of 139 asylum seekers to Germany, which has brought the total number of people relocated from Greece to other European Union (EU) Member States through a European Commission-funded programme this year to over 1,000.

This was the 16th relocation flight organized under the EU programme implemented by IOM, UNHCR and UNICEF in cooperation with the Government of Greece through the Special Secretary for the Protection of Unaccompanied Children, and in close collaboration with the European Asylum Support Office (EASO).

This year, a total of 1,066 asylum seekers have been relocated from Greece to Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Luxembourg and Portugal.

Among the group that arrived safely in Germany today were families with children with special health needs and 53 unaccompanied children, 37 of whom had been transferred to the Greek mainland after multiple fires completely destroyed the Moria reception and identification center three weeks ago.

We feel grateful for the people that helped us in Greece and well never forget them. We dont speak German, but well try hard to learn the language. My brothers live in Germany and Im excited that Ill see them again after such a long time, said Lina Hussein from Syria who travelled today with her husband, Osman, and her sons, Yousef and Mohammad.

Since the tragic fires at Moria, IOM, UNHCR and UNICEF have worked together with the financial support of the European Commission and leadership of the Ministry of Migration and Asylums Special Secretary for the Protection of Unaccompanied Children to move 724 unaccompanied children from the islands to the mainland in anticipation of their relocation to other European States. All children have been settled in temporary facilities run by IOM and partners on the mainland where support is provided in line with EU standards.

The relocation initiative, which started last April, has proven to be a workable act of responsibility sharing. The UN agencies are encouraged by the expression of solidarity and action by some Member States to welcome additional asylum seekers and recognized refugees from Greece at a time of heightened hardship.

This milestone is a remarkable testament that cooperation among partners can change the lives of children and other vulnerable people for the better, said Ola Henrikson, IOM Regional Director for the EEA, EU and NATO. Despite the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, relocation flights are happening almost every week. We hope this momentum is sustained and expanded, with more European states participating soon.

Following many calls for enhanced responsibility-sharing in Europe and the particular need to relocate unaccompanied children and other vulnerable people from Greece, we are very pleased to see this taking concrete shape and gradually expanding, said Pascale Moreau, UNHCR Director for Europe. We are grateful to the countries concerned and hope that more countries follow this positive example and demonstrate their solidarity with Greece.

The relocations of unaccompanied minors and other vulnerable children continue to be an important part of protecting the rights of refugee and migrant children, said Afshan Khan, UNICEF Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia, and Special Coordinator for the Refugee and Migrant Response in Europe. These children, many of whom have fled abject poverty and conflict, have the right to be safe and develop to their full potential.

Prior to departure and through the provision of updated information, a childs best interest assessment is supported by UNHCR, EASO, UNICEF and NGO partners to ensure that the relocation is appropriate for these children, with their informed views also considered during the process. At the same time, pre-migration health assessments including COVID 19 testing, are provided in line with the protocols established by Greece and the Member States of Relocation.

As of mid-September, there were almost 4,400 unaccompanied and separated children in Greece in urgent need of durable solutions, including expedited registration, family reunion and relocation. Among them, over 1,000 are exposed to severe risks, including exploitation and violence, and facing homelessness and precarious conditions in urban centres.

The Agencies call for more EU solidarity through relocations following the release of the European Commissions New Pact on Migration and Asylum, which contains a series of legislative proposals on the EUs approach to migration and asylum. The release of the Pact provides a unique opportunity for the EU to move beyond one-off relocation exercises and establish more predictable arrangements for relocation within the EU, for longer-term impact.

For more information, please see: IOM Relocation Fact Sheet on Relocations from Greece

UNHCR Explainer about relocations of unaccompanied children from Greece: https://data2.unhcr.org/en/documents/details/78746

For more information, please contact:

IOM:

Ryan Schroeder at IOM Brussels, [email protected] + 32 492 25 02 34.

+ 32 492 25 02 34. Christine Nikolaidou at IOM Greece, [email protected] + 30 6947 833 412

+ 30 6947 833 412 Angela Wells at IOM Geneva, [email protected] +41 79 430 5365

+41 79 430 5365 Safa Msehli at IOM Geneva, [email protected] +41 79 403 5526

UNICEF:

Olga SiokouSiova, UNICEF Greece, [email protected] +30 211 2340 297,

+30 211 2340 297, Chulho Hyun, UNICEF Europe and Central Asia (Geneva), [email protected] +41 79 643 3452

UNHCR:
Read the introduction to this essay, Students Need Anti-Bias Training, Too , by Education Week senior contributing writer Catherine Gewertz.

I know my fellow high school students need training in inclusion, diversity, and anti-racism. So Im creating that training.

I have been working with the University of Kentucky and Civics Unplugged to create a 14-week, entirely virtual, free training on diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism. It is nearly ready to be released, and anyone can use it. I hope you will.

As far back as kindergarten, Ive had experiences that show the need for training like this. Interacting with my classmates showed me just how little students are taught about race and how to be culturally competent. Classmates touching my hair or comparing their summer tans to my already dark skin. Students asking me if I am lost when I walk into advanced classes. Non-Black classmates defending their use of the N-word. Ive even had peers tell me Im not really Black since I get good grades. The list goes on.

Until recently, while I could feel that these experiences were wrong, I could rarely articulate why. I knew these incidents were racist or biased, but even after going to school for 12 years, I could never quite explain why non-Black people should not say the N-word or why it isnt a compliment to be called white.

Our schools are not preparing students to enter our incredibly and increasingly diverse world. Too few students learn about the writings of James Baldwin or the indignities suffered by Sarah Baartman, who was subjected to exhibition in so-called freak shows. Our history classes praise the suffragists without discussing the Black women who were pushed aside. By the time we walk across the graduation stage, few of us have learned how race has shaped every system in America or that race is fundamentally a social construct.

We are not just missing out on an accurate history. Race shapes how we treat each other in the hallways, too. Yet our schools would rather turn a blind eye than talk about race. By the second semester of my junior year, I began to realize that these lessons werent going to come from my teachers. Id need to get the ball rolling myself.

I began doing research to find diversity and inclusion training that was meaningful for Generation Zmy peers. I quickly realized no such thing exists. So, with a lot of spare time during quarantine, I set out to make one.

My idea was to provide training for students just at my school, but the project has quickly grown into a nine-person effort to teach the principles of equity and anti-racism and a factual history of race to as many young people around the country as possible. I connected with the Office of Diversity at the University of Kentucky and reached out to other Gen Zers through Civics Unplugged to work on the programming and form a base of youth facilitators.

Our program, Diversity, Inclusion, Cultural Competency, and Equity, or DICCE , aims to expand students notions about race, help them talk about it respectfully and coherently, and lead them in reevaluating the systems that perpetuate oppression.

In our training, we want to explore many facets of race that go unexplored in our schools. We want to teach students the truthful history of race in America and help them recognize and tackle inequities in their own communities. We will walk students through different types of racisminstitutional, interpersonal, internalizedand explore unique intersectional bigotries that affect every facet of their lives. We will help students reflect on whether their social circles and schools are fully inclusive and well challenge their mindsets on what whiteness is. Through group lessons, discussions, and journaling exercises, students will begin to answer such questions as how to be an anti-racist and what privilege looks like.

A crucial piece of that process is understanding how our identities are layered. For most of us, privilege isnt an all-or-nothing thing. Some parts of our identities, such as our educational background, might confer privilege while others, such as race, simultaneously take it away. In our training, students will consider how they can use their privilege to help others without silencing them.

DICCE wants to teach young people to teach other young people! I want my peers to shape our curriculum into what their schools, clubs, and spaces need the most.

We are in a history-shaping, first-of-its-kind moment. The world, ground nearly to a halt by a pandemic, is having to slow down and reckon with systems that have been plaguing us for centuries. District and school leaders, how will you partner with your students to bring about change together?


A group of housing rights advocates were distributing info to tenants facing an eviction hearing at Magisterial District Court 12-1-01 in Susquehanna Township on Wednesday.

The group, Greater Harrisburg Area Tenants United, was out to ensure that those tenants facing eviction know their rights  and that thanks to federal action they might be able to protect themselves from eviction if they have been struggling to make rent.

Were here today to help keep tenants in their home this winter, said Veronica Adams, a member of Greater Harrisburg Area Tenants United. About 20 evictions are happening here at this court today, and were going to try to give them the CDC forms that allows them to stay in their homes until the end of December.

On Sept. 1, the Center for Disease Control announced a temporary halt nationwide on evictions due to failure by the tenants to pay rent. The moratorium on such evictions was to last through the end of 2020 and was designed to protect those financially impacted by the coronavirus pandemic from suddenly finding themselves homeless  and at even higher risk of catching and spreading COVID-19.

But while a federal ban on evictions sounds like a fairly clear-cut policy, one national housing advocacy group described the language as hilariously vague, and thus in Pennsylvania, the enforcement of that policy has fallen to individual courts.

Landlords still have the ability to file for eviction notices across Pennsylvania. According to Caleb Cossick, another activist, there have been over 500 eviction filings since Sept. 1 in Dauphin County alone. Sept. 1 was also when Governor Tom Wolfs statewide moratorium on evictions due to missed rent payments came to an end.

Ive been scouring the dockets and trying to look for patterns and identify where we can do the most good, Cossick said. I got really fired up about what I saw. I wasnt expecting to see over 500 cases filed between Sept. 1 and Sept. 22. I was shocked, I was confused and upset. Thats why I helped to spearhead this initiative, to set up outside the courthouse.

Roughly half of those 500 eviction filings have already been closed, Cossick said, with many siding for the landlords. And for some of them, the CDCs order would not have protected them regardless - only those struggling with rent payments are protected, not those who have violated any other part of rental agreements.

And even if renters are behind in payments due to the pandemic, they still need to fill out a form issued by the state, and have to meet additional requirements  including, among other things, having made some effort to pay something to their landlords, applied for any eligible government assistance for rent or housing, and be out of other housing options.

We want people to know they need to sign the CDC form and give it to their landlord in order to have that protection, Cossick said. If the landlord refuses to accept it, likely they will have to go to their district judge, show it to the judge, and the judge will uphold it. President Judge [John F.] Cherry has upheld the CDC eviction halt, so thats presumably bulletproof here in Dauphin County.

It was Cherry, Cossick said, who advised the group to hand out the paperwork outside of a courthouse. As the president judge of the Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas, Cherrys interpretation of the CDC order has guided the countys district judges.

We were able to make contact with him, Cossick said. And in his words, roughly, the best thing we could do is set up outside the courthouse and give people the CDC declaration.

However, demonstrating immediately outside of a courthouse drew its own questions from Judge James Lenker, who presides over the courthouse where the demonstrators had set up tables and flyers. While Lenker declined comment for this story, he told the demonstrators that in order to remain impartial, the courthouse could not allow advocates for either side of a case to demonstrate or advocate outside.

Ultimately, after conferring with Lenker and the district attorney, Susquehanna Township police allowed the demonstrators to remain. And their goal is to make sure that people facing eviction  many of whom may be coming to a courthouse for the first time  are at least aware of the steps they need to take.

Were here to help people try to fill out those forms, Adams said. We have a business card of a person whose job it is to help people walk through those forms. And we also recommend that tenants reach out to us personally, so they can call us with questions they might have on specific instances.

Additional advocates and resources, Adams said, can be found with the Harrisburg Center for Peace and Justice and MidPenn Legal Services, who provide pro-bono counsel for low-income people. Cossick added that theyre very helpful. Theyre also very busy.

Cossick said that the Greater Harrisburg Area Tenants United are already planning another demonstration, on Oct. 6, at District Court 12-1-06 on Locust Lane. But he hopes that the courts themselves would take action to inform renters of their rights.

We want to see them do more to inform people about the CDC eviction ban, he said. We want to see the paperwork for the tenant put on the door along with the summons to court. Wed like to see a sheriffs department serving those along with the landlord/tenant complaints. And wed like to see the judge and the staff here at the courthouse informing people about that when they arrive for their hearing, giving them a copy of it, and putting them in contact with advocates. We have all that paperwork here today, and were doing that legwork today, but were kind of saying, why are we here?' Why are we the ones doing that?
City police and Peterborough Public Health both say they are now taking a zero-tolerance approach to enforcing public health rules during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The rules set out by the Ontario government limit private indoor gatherings to 10 people and outdoor gatherings to 25 people, and legislate the way bars and restaurants can operate (last call for alcohol is now 11 p.m., for instance).

Police can issue fines. Private gatherings that exceed the limits can mean a $750 tickets for individuals in attendance, and on Tuesday evening at a police board meeting Chief Scott Gilbert said officers now wont hesitate to give out tickets.

Its zero tolerance now. Weve been at this for six months, and the time for warnings and education is over. Well educate through giving a ticket, Gilbert said in a Global Peterborough report.

The chief told the police board that there have been no complaints about bars and restaurants not following the rules, Global Peterborough reported, but individual customers have been breaking the rules by ignoring the rules of physical distancing in restaurants.

In a statement emailed to The Examiner, Peterborough Public Health (PPH) states that it stands behind this new approach from police and that it expects charges will follow.

Peterborough Public Health is continuing to collaborate with local enforcement partners including Peterborough Police Service and OPP to ensure compliance with public health measures, the statement reads.

Collectively, the nature of local enforcement is shifting from strong focus on education to a zero- tolerance approach; we expect charges to be laid in the coming weeks if there is a lack of compliance with the Reopening Ontario Act.

Earlier this week, Global News in Waterloo reported that a Waterloo sandwich shop was fined under Section 7.0.2 of the Reopening of Ontario Act.

The section requires restaurants to maintain proper physical distancing measures and could include infractions such as customers not remaining seated or too many seats to allow distance between tables.

In Peterborough, there was a party on campus at Trent University in September that exceeded the number of allowed guests, which at the time had been 100 people; videos uploaded to social media showed crowds of students mingling close and barefaced.

Although police said at the time they werent called to that scene, Global Peterborough reported that Gilbert told the police board on Tuesday that officers are looking out for further parties.
HOUSTON, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Beecher Reagan , a global search and leadership firm specializing exclusively in senior professional services and private equity leadership, announced the appointment of Matthew Greenberg as Principal of the Digital and Analytics Practice.

Greenberg brings a wealth of expertise in human capital strategy and recruitment in the digital & analytics space to Beecher Reagan's Consulting Practice. He works with professional services and private equity firms to build their C-Suite and Partner level teams.

"During these uncertain times, we continue to invest in our firm. We would like to welcome Matthew Greenberg. Greenberg will lead our Cloud, Digital & Analytics capability for the firm. This appointment allows us to remain a market leader in transformational executive search. Greenberg's expertise provides our professional services and private equity clients access to the world's leading transformational leadership," says Managing Partner, Clark Beecher.

Previously, Greenberg helped lead the build out of a Recruiting Center of Excellence for the Digital arm at The Boston Consulting Group. He was also responsible for Partner level recruiting, designing diversity programs and implementing an analytically rigorous approach to hiring.

Greenberg possesses more than 10 years of experience in recruiting leadership level hires such as Global and Divisional C-Level positions as well as Advisory, Partner and Managing Director level hires within professional services and private equity portfolio organizations. Greenberg brings significant depth across diverse industries.

"After more than a decade of being a recruiting leader at two of the most prestigious strategy and technology services companies on the planet, I'm thrilled to be joining Beecher Reagan as a Principal," Greenberg says. "I look forward to applying my digital and analytics expertise to deliver tremendous value to our clients."

About Beecher Reagan

Founded in 2009 by Clark Beecher and Tim Reagan, Beecher Reagan, LLC is a global retained executive search and leadership advisory firm focused exclusively on senior professional services and the consulting talent market. The firm brings more than 100 years of combined experience to help professional services, Fortune 500, and alternative investment companies align search strategies to organizational goals. The partners at Beecher Reagan have long standing relationships within the consulting, professional services and private equity space. The Beecher Reagan team consists of strategic search professionals, global talent acquisition leaders and former consultants with first-hand experience and knowledge of the talent and industries we serve. www.beecherreagan.com

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YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. The Cabinet will not convene its regular weekly meeting on October 1 amid the Azerbaijani military attacks, instead all bills and decisions are being remotely discussed and adopted. The decisions will be regularly posted online.

Martial law and mobilization is declared in Armenia and Artsakh amid the Turkish-backed Azeri military offensive that began on September 27.

Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan
Russia today accused Alexei Navalny of working with the CIA after the Kremlin critic claimed Vladimir Putin was behind the poison plot which left him fighting for his life.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed Navalny's allegations as 'groundless and unacceptable' and claimed that 'specialists' from US intelligence were working with Navalny 'these days' and giving him instructions.

Peskov echoed the speaker of Russia's parliament who earlier called Navalny 'shameless' and 'dishonorable' and accused the politician of working with 'security services of Western countries.'

Navalny pointed the finger directly at Putin for the first time in an interview with German magazine Der Spiegel, saying that 'Putin is behind the crime and I don't have any other versions of what happened'.

The 44-year-old opposition leader described the moment that the nerve agent Novichok began to take effect, saying that 'you don't feel any pain but you know you're dying'.

Navalny was released from a German hospital last week after 32 days of treatment but medics say it is too early to tell if he will suffer long-term health problems.

The West has demanded an explanation from the Kremlin, which has denied any involvement in the incident and said it has yet to see evidence of a poison plot.

Alexei Navalny and his wife Yulia pose for a picture after the Russian opposition leader was released from his German hospital after his Novichok poisoning

Navalny being taken to an ambulance in Omsk (left) after falling ill on a plane following a trip to an airport cafe (right) in August, although his friends now suspect he was poisoned with a water bottle in his hotel room rather than at the airport

Navalny told the German magazine that he would return to Russia, adding: 'Not returning would mean that Putin has achieved his aim. And my job now is to stay the guy who's not afraid.'

A political activist who helped bring Navalny to Germany said it would take him at least another month to regain fitness, adding it was clear he planned to return to Russia and resume political activity.

For now, he is staying in Berlin with his wife and son as he undergoes the long process of rehabilitation.

Doctors at the Charite hospital said that based on the patient's progress and current condition, the treating physicians believe that complete recovery is possible'.

However, they added that 'it remains too early to gauge the potential long-term effects of his severe poisoning'.

Navalny described telling cabin crew that he had been poisoned before he fell on the floor on the flight in Siberia.

'Then I heard voices that were getting softer, a woman calling: Don't faint now! Then that was it. I knew I was dead. Only later did I realise that I was wrong,' he said.

A German military lab found 'unequivocal evidence' of Novichok poisoning last month, a finding supported by laboratories in France and Sweden.

Navalny's allies initially speculated that he was poisoned at a Siberian airport shortly before he fell ill.

However, his aides later said that Novichok was found on a water bottle in his Tomsk hotel room.

After Navalny fell ill, the aircraft made an emergency landing in Omsk and he was initially taken to hospital in the Siberian city.

The following weekend he was airlifted to Berlin, where doctors treated him with the antidote atropine and kept him in a medically induced coma.

Navalny's allies have pointed the finger at Russian president Vladimir Putin (pictured) after the opposition leader fell ill, but the Kremlin has dismissed the claims

Suspicion has fallen on Moscow, especially because the nerve agent was the same one used to poison Sergei Skripal in Salisbury in 2018, but the Kremlin denies any involvement.

Navalny's supporters have directly pointed the finger at Putin, saying that only the Russian government could use a military-grade nerve agent such as Novichok.

Russia's transport police says it has questioned 200 people in a basic probe, but authorities have yet to open a full investigation.

The Kremlin has played down Germany's finding of Novichok, insisting that medical tests carried out by its own doctors found no poison in Navalny's body.

The head of Russia's lower house of parliament today accused Navalny of working for Western governments.

Vyacheslav Volodin said Putin had 'saved' Navalny's life after he was poisoned, and accused the Kremlin critic of 'working with the security services and authorities of Western countries.'

Navalny said he 'did not expect anything else' after Russian talk shows suggested that Western intelligence or his own allies had carried out the attack.

In a video address to the UN General Assembly on Tuesday, German foreign minister Heiko Maas said Navalny's poisoning was a violation of the ban on chemical weapons and therefore a problem for 'the entire international community.'

'I call on Russia to do more to clarify this matter,' Maas said.

On Wednesday, the Russian foreign ministry accused Berlin of 'provocative' behaviour by using the UN to make 'groundless claims'.

Moscow said it viewed those statements as the 'continuation of Berlin's openly hostile line' on Navalny's case.

Navalny poses with his wife Yulia and their children at the German hospital where he was being treated after being poisoned with Novichok

Russia said it was especially 'cynical' because Germany had failed to respond to three requests for cooperation from the General Prosecutor's Office in Moscow.

'The West often says that it's no longer possible to deal with Russia, that is to conduct 'business as usual,'' the Russian foreign ministry said.

Germany has previously retorted that Russia had plenty of opportunities to gather evidence when Navalny was being treated in Russia.

Outrage at Navalny's poisoning has led to calls for renewed sanctions against Russia, including scrapping the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline to Germany.

The Kremlin has rejected those calls, saying that the pipeline is 'absolutely in line with the interests of both Russia and EU countries'.

Navalny said on Monday that German chancellor Angela Merkel had visited him at the Berlin hospital.

'I am very grateful to Chancellor Merkel for visiting me at the hospital,' he wrote on Twitter following reports of the meeting in German media.

Putin's spokesman said last week that Navalny would be free to return to Russia, where he has been arrested multiple times in what critics say were politically motivated crackdowns.

Navalny has also been sued over his anti-corruption investigations and was barred from running in the 2018 presidential election, which Putin won.
Berlin/Moscow: The Kremlin has accused opposition politician Alexei Navalny of working with the CIA, after Navalny said he believed President Vladimir Putin was behind the suspected poisoning that put him in a coma in Germany.

The accusation from Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Thursday appears to be the first time the Russian authorities have directly accused Putin's highest-profile critic of working with a foreign intelligence agency.

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, left, pictured with his wife Yulia. Credit:Instagram

It raises the stakes should Navalny fulfil a pledge to return to Russia, and may add to pressure on Western leaders, especially German Chancellor Angela Merkel, to take action over his case.

Navalny responded by saying he would sue Peskov over the accusation, challenging him to present evidence to back it up.
One might not find many Nigerian historical movies to binge on, mainly because they cost a lot to shoot and involve a lot of research.

Some critics also say historical movies are not commercially viable because the Nigerian movie audience are not yearning for them just yet. These might be just some of the reasons why historical films are in short supply in Nigeria.

Nonetheless, some Nigerian filmmakers have created masterpieces worthy of mention especially on a day like this.

October 1

Produced and directed by award-winning filmmaker, Kunle Afolayan, October 1, is a movie set in the colonial era, just before the Nigerian flag was raised for the independence ceremony.

The film tells the story of a police officer, Danladi Waziri, deployed from Northern Nigeria to a Western town of Akote to unravel the mystery behind the frequent killing of female residents of the community before October 1.

The film explores tribalism, colonisation, homosexuality and Nigerias independence. To further showcase Nigerian lifestyle in the 60s, the 2014 premiere of the film required guests to attend dressed in attires and hairstyles from that period.

The film stars Sadiq Daba, Kayode Olaiya, David Bailie, Kehinde Bankole, Kanayo O. Kanayo, Fabian Adeoye Lojede, Nick Rhys, Kunle Afolayan, Femi Adebayo, Bimbo Manuel, Ibrahim Chatta and a host of others.

76

Set in the 1970s, six years after the civil war, the film directed by Izu Ojukwu, tells the story of a young officer who was accused of being involved in the abortive 1976 coup that led to the assassination of military head of state, Murtala Muhammed.

The story also revolves around the soldiers pregnant wife, who went through the pains of childbirth and the struggles of helping her husband prove his innocence.

Starring Ramsey Nouah, Chidi Mokeme, Rita Dominic, and Ibinabo Fiberesima, the film reflected on the lives of soldiers and the struggles their wives go through.

Half of a Yellow Sun

Based on a novel of the same title written by Nigerian author, Chimamanda Adichie, Half of a Yellow Sun is a film directed by Biyi Bandele.

The film explores the plight of Nigerians during the civil war, based on the story of two sisters, Kainene and Olanna, who face the struggles of living life throughout the war.

Coming from their glamorous and sheltered lives, the sisters were forced to choose different paths and journey through life with their partners.

Starring Chiwetel Ejiofor, Thandie Newton, Onyeka Onwenu, Anika Noni Rose, Joseph Mawle, Genevieve Nnaji, OC Ukeje, and John Boyega, the film explored the war, inter-tribal killings, love and the struggle for Biafras independence.

The Amazing Grace

The Amazing Grace is focused on one of the biggest highlights of Nigerian history; slave trade. It tells the story of a British slave trader sailing into Nigeria but has a change of heart after witnessing the brutality of slavery and almost losing his life.

Believing that the grace of God saved his life, he gave up slave trading and became an Anglican priest. He later wrote the famous religious hymn, Amazing Grace.

The film stars Nick Moran, Joke Silva, Scott Cleverdon, Mbong Amata, Fred Amata and Zack Amata.

Invasion 1897

Reenacting the historical events that surrounded the 1897 invasion and destruction of the ancient Benin kingdom, Lancelot Imasuen uses the film to tell the story of the deposition and exile of the revered Oba of Benin by the British colonialists.

The story was narrated from the point of view of a young prince of Benin who stood trial for stealing artifacts from the British museum.

The movie starred Mike Omoregbe, Segun Arinze, Rudolph Walker, Charles Inojie, Paul Obazele, Justus Esiri, Charles Chucky Venn and Leo Mezie.

93 Days

Directed by Steve Gukas, 93 Days celebrates the life of late Nigerian physician, Ameyo Adadevoh, and the sacrifices she made to help contain the spread of the Ebola virus in Nigeria.

The film recounts the 2014 outbreak of the Ebola virus in Nigeria and the fight of health workers in a Lagos hospital to contain the spread.

The story picked up from the arrival of Liberian, Patrick Sawyer in Nigeria, his illness, the discovery of Ebola, his death and the containment of the virus within 93 days.

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It starred Bimbo Akintola, Danny Glover, Seun Ajayi, Keppy Ekpeyong, and Bimbo Manuel.

The Herbert Macaulay Affair

The Herbert Macaulay Affair is a movie by a Nigerian filmmaker, Imoh Umoren. The film is based on the life and struggles of Nigerian nationalist and independence agitator, Herbert Macaulay.

Macaulays grandson, Wale Macaulay, also stars in the movie.

The movie is set in the 1920s, around the time of the bubonic plague in Lagos. The film shows lead actor, William Benson, who plays the role of Herbert Macaulay, inciting fellow Nigerians to stand up against their oppressors and leads protests in this fashion.

The Herbert Macaulay Affair begins with young Herbert stepping off a ship after schooling in England in 1893.

The movie also stars Kelechi Udegbe, Martha Ehinome Orhiere, Tubosun Ayedun, Sunday Afolabi, Mary Kowo, Phillip Jarman, Stanley Matthews, Obiora Maduegbuna, and Lolo Eremie.
Foreign Ministers of Russia and Turkey Sergei Lavrov and Mevlut Cavusoglu thoroughly discussed the escalation of tension around Nagorno-Karabakh.

According to the press service of the Russian Foreign Ministry, the ministers expressed serious concern over the ongoing armed confrontation and spoke in favor of an immediate cessation of hostilities. The inadmissibility of the involvement of militants of illegal armed formations from other regions in the conflict was emphasized. The need for extremely balanced steps was noted in terms of providing political and diplomatic assistance to Baku and Yerevan.

They reaffirmed their readiness to closely coordinate the actions of Russia and Turkey to stabilize the situation to return the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict to a peaceful negotiation channel as soon as possible.

The Russian side drew attention to the efforts undertaken by the co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group, including the joint statement of the Presidents of Russia, the United States and France as of Thursday.

Topical issues on the bilateral agenda were touched upon. It was agreed to maintain further contacts.
- Kwadwo Safo Jnr has finally met the 18-year-old Junior High School graduate who assembled his own car

- He lauded Kelvin for his invention and creation

- Kwadwo Safo said he would shoulder all of Kelvin's expenses in the secondary school

Our manifesto: This is what YEN.com.gh believes in

The Chief Executive Officer of Kantanka Automobile, Kwadwo Safo Jnr has finally met the 18-year-old Junior High School graduate who assembled his own car.

The young CEO met the whiz-kid together with his mother and CEO of GUBA, Dentaa Amoateng.

In a video sighted by YEN.com.gh, the CEO of Kantanka said Kelvin should be brought to him for him to be mentored.

He lauded Kelvin for his invention and creation and revealed to his mother that, he would shoulder all of Kelvin's expenses in the secondary school.

Kwadwo Safo Jnr meets JHS graduate who made his own car; makes big promise Source: Instagram (Dentaa_show)

Source: Original

Kwadwo Safo revealed that he intends on working on a design similar to that of Kelvin's and would love to have Kelvin on that particular project.

YEN.com.gh earlier reported that the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Kantanka Automobile, Kwadwo Safo Jnr has offered to be a mentor to the young Junior High School (JHS) graduate who 'invented' a Lamborghini-like car himself.

Kwadwo Safo stated that he is optimistic that the assistance from his outfit will help the young man achieve his dreams.

He said he together with his staff will be more than willing to give any form of support to Kelvin Kruchang.

The boy [Kelvin Kruchang] needs a lot of mentoring and we at Kantanka are willing to teach him, he noted.

He indicated that Kelvin is a born handmade crafter and that the best place for him to nurture his talent is with Kantanka.

Kwadwo Safo Jnr also stated that Kantanka Automobile would soon embark on a nationwide talent hunt for kids like Kelvin to strengthen Ghanas automobile industry.

Meanwhile, mother of the 18-year-old BECE graduate, Madam Abigail Pabi has spoken about her son's talent and early beginnings.

According to her, she used to prophesized on her children including Kelvin, while they were in her womb and asked God to me them great people in society.

The mother of the young creative said she it was her wish for her kids to go into the field of medicine but they took to arts which to her, was the divinely selected.

YEN is building a platform where Ghanaians can share local news and own experiences with each other. Witnessing an incident?

Want to tell about a local problem? Know someone who is extremely talented and needs recognition?

Your stories and photos are always welcome. Send us a message via Instagram or on YENs official Facebook page.

Source: YEN.com.gh
Israel announced the talks last week, saying Israeli Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz will lead the Israeli delegation. Thursday's declaration by Speaker Nabih Berri is the first confirmation by Lebanon that the negotiations will take place.

Israel and Lebanon have no diplomatic relations and are technically in a state of war. They each claim about 860 square kilometers (330 square miles) of the Mediterranean Sea as within their own exclusive economic zones.

Berri said the US-mediated talks will be held at the headquarters of the UN peacekeeping force in the southern border town of Naqoura under the banner of the United Nations. He did not give a start date for the talks.

Indirect talks mean that Lebanese army negotiators will not be speaking directly to members of the Israeli delegation but through UN officials.

The United States has been mediating between Lebanon and Israel since 2010 until a breakthrough was reached in July on the framework for the indirect talks, Berri said.

He said the US mediation stalled but it received a push in March last year during a visit to Beirut by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo during which he discussed the dispute with Lebanese officials.

The agreement on the framework comes as Lebanon is going through its worst economic and financial crisis in decades. Beirut is hoping that oil and natural gas discoveries in its territorial waters will help it pay back its massive debt.

Lebanon began offshore drilling earlier this year and is expected to start drilling for gas in the disputed area with Israel before in the coming months.



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A Karnataka activist in Byndoor had a tough battle rescuing his dog from being constricted by a 20-foot-long python.

Ravi Shetty, president of Karnataka Karmika Vedike had returned from Bangalore to his farm house in Golihole village, when he heard the painful cry of his pet dog, reports Times of India.

When he rushed to his dog, it was being coiled by the massive python, which weighed about 50 kg and constricted the pet to swallow it.

Springing to actions, he tried to save the dog, which he described was not an easy task".

ALSO READ: Assam BJP MLA Wishes Pet Python Happy Hunting After Snake Goes Missing

Unable to rescue the dog by himself, as neighbours were too scared to intervene, Shetty decided to call his friend for help.

The friend from the forest department hurried to the spot and it took the duo almost 80 minutes to uncoil the python, save the dog and rescue the python.

The snake was reportedly released in a nearby forest later.

ALSO READ: Double-trouble: US Woman Finds Twin-headed Snake Slithering in Her Home, Spooky Video Goes Viral

In another recent incident, the Forest Department rescued a massive python from the Sihari village of Rampur district in Uttar Pradesh. The python had apparently swallowed a large goat and was unable to move.

The python had wandered into the village and had swallowed a large prey, rendering it incapable of moving. This alarmed the villagers who then informed the authorities. Speaking to ANI, Rajiv Kumar, Divisional Forest Officer, said Our team reached the spot immediately after getting information that a python was found in Sihari village of the Rampur district. The team rescued it and released it in the nearby forest."

The snake was caught and then released into the forest. The villagers were also told to not panic.

Large pythons such as these have been spotted frequently in various districts of Uttar Pradesh lately.
They said that the Pakistani troops resorted to an unprovoked violation of the November 2003 ceasefire understanding along the LoCs Nougam

It added that the duo was after sustaining grievous injuries in Pakistani firing airlifted to 150 GH Hospital in neighbouring Rajouri district (ANI file photo)

Three Indian soldiers were killed and five others wounded in Pakistani firing in two different sectors of the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmirs Kupwara and Poonch districts during past 24 hours, the Army authorities said here on Thursday evening.

They said that the Pakistani troops resorted to an unprovoked violation of the November 2003 ceasefire understanding along the LoCs Nougam sector in Kupwara on Thursday.

Pakistan initiated an unprovoked ceasefire violation along LoC in Nougam sector, Kupwara today morning by firing mortars and other weapons, resulting in fatal injuries to two of our soldiers whereas the four others wounded were immediately evacuated to a military hospital, defence spokesperson Colonel Rajesh Kalia said. He added that the Indian troops were giving befitting response to the Pakistani firing and shelling.

Earlier on Wednesday night, Lance Naik Karnail Singh was killed and another Indian soldier Rifleman Virender Singh injured in Pakistan firing along the LoCs Mankote sector in Poonch, the Army said.

It added that the duo was after sustaining grievous injuries in Pakistani firing airlifted to 150 GH Hospital in neighbouring Rajouri district. Unfortunately, Karnail Singh died before being admitted and his body was brought back to battalion headquarters of 10 JAK Rifles.

Virender Singh has sustained injuries in his right eye and is receiving treatment in the hospital, a defence spokesman said in Poonch. He also said that the Indian troops gave a befitting reply to Pakistani firing.

On Monday, an Indian soldier was injured in a similar clash in the LoCs Machil sector in Kupwara, the Army said adding that his condition is stable.

In Islamabad, Pakistan armed forces spokesperson Major General Babar Iftikhar said that the Indian Army resorted to unprovoked ceasefire violation using automatics and heavy mortars in Jandrot sector along the LOC deliberately targeting civilian populationon Wedneday. He added that a 65-year- old woman was injured in the Indian shelling in Kathar village.

He further said the earlier on Tuesday, a 15-year-old boy was killed and four other civilians including a woman were injured in the Indian firing and shelling in the LoCs Baroh and Tandar sectors. He claimed, Pakistan Army troops responded and targeted those posts which had initiated the fire. There are reports of substantial damage to Indian posts in men and material and during the intense exchange of fire Sepoy Shafique fighting valiantly embraced shahadat (martyrdom).

The Srinagar-based Defence spokesman, Colonel Kalia, in a WhatsApp message late Thursday night said, Pakistan initiated unprovoked ceasefire violations along the LoCs Keran and Machhal sectors today afternoon by firing artillery guns, mortars and other weapons. Befitting response is being given.
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With office workers now urged to work from home if they can, the thought of returning to the workplace has become a daunting prospect for many once again.

Companies across the country have invested thousands into making their headquarters Covid-safe - and one housebuilding firm has gone above and beyond.

Weston Group has invested 40million into a new state of the art complex, with its five star hotel-inspired decor and enviable facilities designed to lure nervous workers back to the office.

Having dubbed itself the most luxurious housebuilder HQ in Britain, the Weston Innovation Centre is located in the Stansted Business Hub in Takeley, Essex, close to the airport.

Weston Group has invested 40million into a new state of the art complex, with its five star hotel-inspired decor and enviable facilities designed to lure workers back to the office

More than 200 Weston Homes employees are expected to return to the brand new office on Monday 12 October, alongside reception staff, chefs for the on site brasserie restaurant (pictured), baristas to serve fresh coffee and, of course, a dedicated Covid-19 cleaning team

An assortment of lounges are provided for meetings or simply chilling out, and a bar for after work drinks - something many of us have missed during lockdown

More than 200 Weston Homes employees are expected to return to the brand new office on Monday 12 October, alongside reception staff, chefs for the on site brasserie restaurant, baristas to serve fresh coffee and, of course, a dedicated Covid-19 cleaning team.

A hotel-style entrance greets visitors, and access to the first floor is provided by a spectacular curved double staircase which rises through the chic atrium.

The underside of the double staircase is polished black with runway lighting, a design inspired by the Dolce and Gabbana flagship store.

There is also a well-equipped and mirrored gym with a dedicated personal instructor to help train staff members, freeweights, an array of machines and upmarket changing facilities.

There is also a well-equipped and mirrored gym with a dedicated personal instructor to help train staff members, freeweights, an array of machines and upmarket changing facilities

Crucially, the new headquarters will allow the group's staff to safely work and social distance from one another, with built-in screens separating desks and plenty of room to move around the open-plan space

A hotel-style entrance greets visitors, and access to the first floor is provided by a spectacular curved double staircase which rises through the chic atrium. The underside of the double staircase is polished black with runway lighting, a design inspired by the Dolce and Gabbana flagship store

The individual walk-in shower cubicles feature hotel-like rainforest showers alongside individual storage cupboards and changing areas.

The male changing rooms have been finished with grey veined marble wash basins and the female changing rooms have been finished with rare pink veined marble complete with vanity stations with feature lighting.

An assortment of lounges are provided for meetings or simply chilling out, and a bar for after work drinks - something many of us have missed during lockdown.

Crucially, the new headquarters will allow the group's staff to safely work and social distance from one another, with built-in screens separating desks and plenty of room to move around the open-plan space.

The individual walk-in shower cubicles feature hotel-like rainforest showers alongside individual storage cupboards and changing areas. The male changing rooms have been finished with grey veined marble wash basins and the female changing rooms have been finished with rare pink veined marble complete with vanity stations with feature lighting

The glass fronted building was designed by Weston Group's in-house architectural design studio, working in conjunction with leading London interior designer Oz Lancaster of OS Design, who collaborated with Weston on the luxurious hotel-inspired specification and interior design of the foyers, meeting areas, lounges and leisure facilities.

Bob Weston, chairman and managing director of Weston Group commented: 'The new state-of-the-art HQ building sets a benchmark for quality in terms of headquarter buildings and provides office space, amenities and leisure facilities to help ensure we deliver the very best working environment within the housebuilding industry.'

Weston Group financed the building of the new HQ from the HSBC Green Loan scheme (which supports sustainable projects) and the building has a BREEAM rating of VERY GOOD.

The basement parking facility has charging for electric cars and Weston is committed to meeting government targets to shift the group's car fleet to electric cars.

Weston Group have sold the Weston Innovation Centre building to Uttlesford District Council and then leased the building back from the council, providing Weston with headquarters premises and the council with a long term investment asset.

Bob Weston, chairman and managing director of Weston Group commented: 'The new state-of-the-art HQ building sets a benchmark for quality in terms of headquarter buildings and provides office space, amenities and leisure facilities to help ensure we deliver the very best working environment within the housebuilding industry'
In 1960, about six years after Nigeria became a federation, and just few months after elections into the Fed eral House of Representatives were held, Nigerian parliamentarians and regional leaders demanded full sovereignty from the British overlords. This was granted and on October 1, 1960, the country gained independence.

PREMIUM TIMES highlights some of the high points of Nigerias 60-year journey.

20- Nigerias first post-independence government was led by the Northern Peoples Congress in alliance with the National Council of Nigerian Citizens. Abubakar Tafawa Balewa served as its Prime Minister.

Late Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe [Photo Credit: BBC]

19- Nigeria became a Republic in 1963. Nnamdi Azikiwe became its first (non-executive) President.

18- Nigerias first violent coup (first in a series) took place in January, 1966. Mr Balewa was executed by the putchists.

17- A major-general, Aguiyi-Ironsi, headed the new military administration. His government immediately formed a unitary state, effectively abolishing the federation structure.

16- Predominantly northern troops in July 1966 sacked the new government. Mr Aguiyi- Ironsi was killed in the bloodbath. A northern officer, Yakubu Gowon, assumed the leadership of the young nation. Mr Gowon restored the federal structure and replaced the four regions with 12 states.

15- Chukwuemeka Ojukwu, a lieutenant-colonel, declared a seperate state of Biafra in May, 1967. His action was resisted by federal forces. This led to a series of hostilities and then a bloody civil war which ended in January 1970. Over a million lives were lost on both sides.

14- In 1975, a brigadier-general, Murtala Mohammed Murtala, deposed Mr Gowon. Mr Muhammed introduced economic and political reforms, added seven more states and initiated a programme to restore civilian rule in four years.

13- Mr Murtala was killed in an abortive coup in 1976. Olusegun Obasanjo, who would later serve as a civilian president, over two decades later, succeeded him. Mr Obasanjo lifted the ban on political parties and led the country to its first multiparty polls in 1979.

12- Shehu Shagari of the National Party of Nigeria, who was elected executive president in 1979, was re-elected in 1983.

11- Another military coup in 1983 put an end to Nigerias new democratic push. A major-general, Muhammadu Buhari, assumed leadership.

10- Mr Buharis perceived severe austerity programme and harsh anti-graft campaigns led to a coup in 1985. Another major-general, Ibrahim Babangida, assumed power. Mr Babangida repealed several decrees and promised to restore civilian rule by 1992. The general also allowed the formation of two political parties in 1989.

09- Babangidas transition to civilian rule programme, which encapsulated elections into state assemblies (1991) and presidential primaries (1992, 1993) was truncated by him in June, 1993. Businessman-politician, Moshood Abiola, of the Social Democratic Party, was clearly in the lead in the presidential polls, when they were annulled by Mr Babangida. Mr Babangida stepped aside shortly after the subsequent riots which greeted his action.

08- In Nigerias seventh coup, Ernest Shonekan, who was drafted in to head an interim government, was sacked by another general, Sani Abacha, in November, 1993. The dark-goggled general cancelled all political activities. He later clamped Mr Abiola in detention after the presumed winner of the 1993 polls declared himself president. Mr Abiola died in detention in July 1998.

07- For nearly five years, Mr Abacha, held the reins of power, clamping on dissension, and consistently postponing the return to civil rule. In April, 1998, all five political parties adopted Mr Abacha as sole candidate for the August election. Mr Abacha died two months later.

06- The then Chief of Defence Staff, Abdulsalami Abubakar, assumed leadership, promising to return the country to civilian rule. He released nine political prisoners including Mr Obasanjo, who had been imprisoned on charges of treason.

05- Mr Abubakar dissolved the principal entities set up by the Abacha regime, released detainees, and again set the nation on the path of restoring civil rule. A National Electoral Commission was formed in August 1998.

04- Nigeria returned to civilian rule in May 1999 when the just released Mr Obasanjo, who contested under the Peoples Democratic Party, won over 62 per cent of the ballot to beat his closest rival, Oluyemi Falae. Mr Falae ran under the All Peoples Party/Alliance for Democracy alliance.

03- Before the military finally departed the political landscape, they published a new constitution in 1999, which has largely guided the nations sojourn till date.

02- The PDP led the country for 16 years under the administrations of Messrs Obasanjo, Umaru YarAdua (who died in office) and Goodluck Jonathan.

01- Muhammadu Buhari, a retired general, who ran under the All Progressives Congress, beat the incumbent president Jonathan in 2015 in the presidential polls. Mr Buhari is serving his second term in office.
Ancient Chinese medicine held congee had curative effects

For millennia, Chinese people have relied on natural foods to strengthen immunity. This becomes especially necessary during the autumn, a drier season thats known to trigger seasonal illnesses. Since ancient times, traditional Chinese medicine has offered us an excellent preventativecongee. Often known as rice porridge, congee is praised for its effectiveness in improving health, and has a reputation as the worlds best supplement.

A Special Porridge That Does Wonders

When one boils rice for congee, a translucent layer of thick liquid forms on top, producing the soup of the grain. Chinese people have long known this liquid can be effective for clearing coughs and restoring energy, along with many other benefits. On the uppermost layer of this soup is a thin sheet of rice grease, the essence of the congee.

According to traditional Chinese medicine studies, this substance is capable of improving energy circulation, nourishing the organs, and clearing internal blockages. In general terms, this is called replenishing the yin, or the vital essence, of the human body. Congee grease possesses yin-nourishing effects.

In the records of The Collection of Compendium of Materia Medica by Zhao Xuemin (17191805), congee grease also boasts cosmetic effects, smoothing ones complexion and strengthening ones physique. According to Zhao Xuemin, if a malnourished person eats congee grease, these effects will be evident within 100 days.

While its significant nutritional value and curative power are comparable to those of ginseng soup, congees readily accessible and budget-friendly ingredients have made it a more popular choice as a source of nourishment for thousands of years. According to the records of Wang Shixiong, a reputable Chinese physician of the 19th century (the Qing Dynasty), congee achieved miraculous health effects for the less-affluent families, who commonly used it as a substitute for ginseng soup.

The Indispensable Grains

The Chinese medical classic Yellow Emperors Inner Canon states that to maintain homeostasis, the human body depends on five grains to nourish, five fruits to assist, five meats to tonify, and five vegetables to supplement. Though all are needed, the most pivotal are the five grains, namely, millet, rice, soybean, wheat, and adzuki beans (red mung beans). They serve as the main fuel for the body, as they contain the carbohydrates and fiber needed to maintain healthy bodily functions.

Today, many young people believe they need to eat less rice in order to cut back on their starch intake since starch can cause weight gain or possibly even lead to diabetes. However, consuming grains can nourish and balance the inner organs and is necessary for keeping many illnesses away.

Ancient Chinese medicine studied the interconnectedness among the bodys mechanisms. It was understood that the lungs regulate the skin, the heart regulates the veins, the spleen regulates the muscles, the liver regulates the tendons, and the kidneys regulate the bones. To ensure the optimal functionality of all these elements, we must provide the nutrients needed by the respective organs.

This explains the cosmetic effects mentioned earlier. Congee boiled from white rice clears away dull-looking skin for a healthy, glowing complexion. According to ancient Chinese medicine, natural foods that are white in color benefit the lungs, thereby opening up the inner channels, unclogging and cleansing the pores, and freeing the skin from waste products while restoring the skins vigor.

You can also rejuvenate your hair with the frequent consumption of this thick rice soup. It is held that congee helps to deliver the nutrients necessary to the different parts of the hair, nourishing it and reducing hair loss and gray hair, while also adding a natural shine. A bowl of well-made congee truly does wonders. In addition to its ability to detoxify and nourish, it can even cure illnesses.

Congees Healing Attributes

Traditional Chinese medicine maintains that an unsettled stomach disrupts quality rest. Any stomach discomfort negatively impacts ones sleep quality and may even lead to insomnia. This can be resolved with a special kind of congee.

Jobs tears, also known as adlay millet, is incredible for clearing internal heat and smoothing ones complexion, while the lotus seed can replenish the spleen and stomach. Lotus seed has a pleasant, light sweetness, and its cool property invigorates the spleen and thus prevents diarrhea, while mung bean detoxifies and clears away internal disturbances. Combining these three into a congee recipe can calm the nerves, improve energy circulation, moisturize skin, and help clear edema.

Pork tenderloin is often used for stir-frying, as it possesses a delightful balance of fragrance, crispness, and taste. But the real magic comes when you shred it and cook it with congee. This recipe is especially soothing for those with a loss of appetite. Years ago, a family member who had been combating cancer for a long time, threw up everything he ate. One day a friend of his made him pork tenderloin congee, as it was something delicious while still easy to consume. This is the most soothing meal Ive had in a long while, the patient said.

Seemingly ordinary yet extremely beneficial, congee is indeed a low-profile treasure passed down from ancient times. With the busy modern life we lead today, it might be hard to take the time to boil the perfect congee, but it can be done very simply: Start cooking the night before, and then keep it overnight in a thermal cooker. By the next morning, a nutritious, tasty pot of congee will be ready for the entire family.

Dr. Hus Health Corner, translated and edited for clarity with permission of NTD.

Currently, a professor at Nine Star University of Health and Sciences in Sunnyvale, Calif., Dr. Hu Naiwen was previously a pharmacological researcher of Western medicine in Taiwan. He was also the director of traditional Chinese medicine clubs at a number of Taiwanese universities. This article was originally published by Elite Lifestyle Magazine.
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A flurry of dry winds could pummel Bay Area mountains Thursday, bringing an increased risk of fire in a region already reeling from the Glass Fire, meteorologists said.

The National Weather Service expanded its red flag warning overnight to encompass an area that now includes the North Bay mountains, Santa Cruz Mountains, the East Bay hills and the Diablo Range mountains on the list of high-altitude areas that could see wind gusts of up to 35 mph. The warning begins at 1 p.m. Thursday and runs through Friday evening.

Strong winds, coupled with the intense heat predicted for the Bay Area throughout the day, could create a combustible combination, said Roger Gass, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service.

Air quality for much of the Bay Area was expected to worsen Thursday as smoke from the Glass Fire in Napa and Sonoma counties blows south, driven by the gusting winds. A Spare the Air alert is in effect until at least Friday.

Of particular concern to meteorologists is the wind pressure building over the North Bay mountains, where the Glass Fire has charted a devastating course through Wine Country, laying waste to homes and winery structures. Wind gusts could scatter embers from the 51,266-acre inferno, creating spot fires to the south in parts of Napa and Sonoma counties.

Any new fires that ignite would have the potential to rapidly spread, Gass said.

In addition to the wind warning, a heat advisory has also been issued for the Bay Area interior. Santa Rosa, Napa, Calistoga and other valley towns in the North Bay could hit triple-digit temperatures Thursday. The rest of the Bay Area will likely see temperatures in the 90s, including places like Berkeley, Redwood City and San Jose.

Now Playing: Dozens of homes and several wineries were lost Sunday night in the foothills east of St. Helena, but fire crews largely succeeded in preventing the Glass Fire from jumping Silverado Trail and coming closer to town. Video: Dustin Gardiner

The heat advisory begins at 11 a.m. Thursday and lasts through 8 p.m. People are advised to stay inside when possible, stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.

Fire Tracker Follow wildfires across the state Latest updates on wildfires burning across Northern and Southern California

While the heat and wind are not expected to be as strong as in previous weeks, Gass said the unrelenting dry conditions are what makes Thursdays weather worrisome.

Our sense of awareness is heightened, given how dry grasses and fuels are right now, he said.

Nora Mishanec is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: nora.mishanec@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @NMishanec
This story was updated Oct. 19 to include information in this clarification: In an Oct. 1 story about the Village of Tinley Parks plan to buy land from video gambling operator Rick Heidner, the Tribune reported that Heidner informed municipal officials that he was pulling out of the deal on Sept. 23, one day after a Tribune reporter began making calls to ask questions about the plan on Sept. 22. We stand by that reporting. After publication of the story, however, Heidner provided a chain of internal emails from his business which indicated that he had informed one of his attorneys and his son at 8:59 p.m. on Sept. 21 that he intended to pull out of the deal on Sept. 23.
Over the past week, at least three K-12 school employees, one college instructor, and two college students have died from COVID-19. At least 30 K-12 teachers and school employees have died from COVID-19 since late July, when schools began to reopen en masse, sending millions of students and teachers back into unsafe classrooms across the US.

Tragically, 57-year-old South Carolina teacher Shirley Bannister died on Sunday, less than three weeks after her daughter Demi Bannister, 28, also a teacher in South Carolina, died from COVID-19 on September 7.

Shirley Bannister, right, died of Covid-19 just weeks after the death of her daughter, Demetria. (Image Credit: Bannister Family)

Shirley Bannister, a nursing instructor at the Midlands Technical College in Columbia, South Carolina, succumbed to the virus after battling it for over two weeks. She became severely ill roughly three days after her daughters death. Bannisters sister-in-law, Shirley Mills Bannister, told the media that she had gone to the hospital three times complaining of symptoms before being admitted for treatment.

I just heard her saying, Shirleythey wont test us, they wont let me get any treatment because they say that my symptoms are not severe enough and I need treatment, the relative told local media.

The fact that a nursing instructor whose daughter recently died from COVID-19 could not get treatment is an indictment of the entire political establishment and both parties, which have allowed schools and businesses to open, crowding hospitals that have already been under strain. Responsibility for this crime lies squarely with the Trump administration and the Democratic and Republican parties, which have worked in tandem to promote policies of herd immunity predicated on letting the virus rip through the population.

Shirleys daughter, Demi Bannister, had just started her fifth year at Windsor Elementary School when she tested positive for coronavirus on September 4 and died three days later. She had been forced to return to her school site in the Richland 2 School District for pre-service preparation days when she contracted the virus.

Within the span of two weeks, Shirleys husband Dennis Bannister has lost his wife and their only daughter. The risk of the virus attacking and killing multiple members of a family and the inter-generational consequences is widely known, but pro-corporate politicians have pressed ahead with deadly school reopenings.

A statement on Shirleys Bannisters death posted on social media by Midlands Technical College president Dr. Ronald Rhames has received many comments from colleagues and students. Jenn R wrote, She was a mentor and was always available to a student who needed help & guidance. She truly was amazing. ... I love you Mrs B! Thank you for your guidance and encouragement. Lauren B commented, Many people are nurses today because of this exemplary woman. Her legacy and contribution to our society lives on. ...

Another tragic death this week was that of Michelle McCrackin, 53, a K-6 Title I paraprofessional at Carson City-Crystal (CC-C) Schools in Montcalm County, Michigan, who died early last Friday, just two days after the district closed due to a COVID-19 outbreak.

As of Monday, Michelle McCrackins burial has been postponed due to one of her five children testing positive for COVID-19. McCrackin was yet another school employee, beloved by her students, colleagues, and community, who met an unexpected and unnecessary death.

The CC-C school district has since switched to online learning until at least October 4 after it became the first school district in Montcalm County to experience a COVID outbreak. A total of 14 staff members were asked to quarantine due to having had direct contact with McCrackin, who had reported a positive case of the virus on Tuesday. By Wednesday, three more staff members had tested positive, as well as a student who had no contact with any of those staff members.

Jody Jenkins, 57, a school superintendent of the Atkins School District in Little Rock, Arkansas, died Tuesday, September 29, due to complications from COVID-19. Jenkins announced on September 13 that he had tested positive for the virus and had been hospitalized for the past several days.

Jenkins caught COVID-19 earlier in the school year and was recovering at home until his symptoms worsened. In a statement on social media, one parent of a student at Atkins Middle School wrote, son is an 8th grade student at AMS. He was telling me a few days ago that it has been so weird not having Mr. Jenkins at school. ... I hope he knew and hope that his family knows that even if he was just handing out a milk at lunch, it wasnt unnoticed and his students appreciated all of his efforts. ...

Classes resumed in Arkansas last month, and the state has reported that there are 717 active cases in public schools throughout the state. The state is requiring schools to be open five days a week for in-person instruction, though they can also offer virtual or hybrid options as well.

Also this week, an unnamed school employee in the Middleton School District in Idaho reportedly passed away from COVID-19. District Superintendent Kristen Beck said in a recent statement that other school employees have tested positive and have not yet recovered. She also noted that Middleton High School students and staff are in quarantine and an elementary teacher is in quarantine and is not doing well.

Despite the news of an employees death, the district and school board are pushing for a full reopening in the coming weeks. At present, schools are implementing a hybrid model for all students and will decide October 12 whether or not to move from their current hybrid learning model into a modified hybrid model where kindergarten through fifth-grade students switch into full-time, in-person learning.

During a recent board meeting, trustee Derek Moore suggested moving kindergarten through fifth-grade to a morning and afternoon schedule, so students could go to school every day, but in smaller groups. We cant run and hide, Moore callously stated, adding, I know we have cases, but we cannot decide not to move forward. There are going to be hiccups in the road.

When Moore says there will be hiccups, he means further deaths and suffering for educators, students and their families. It should go without saying that the arbitrary movement of schedule will do absolutely nothing to prevent teachers and students from becoming infected and possibly infecting their loved ones.

Nationally, there are on average more than 40,000 reported coronavirus cases each day, adding to the nearly 7.4 million total infections in the United States. At least 750 people die each day from the pandemic, with a total of 210,000 lives lost in the US alone.

As the WSWS reported this week, the reopening of K-12 schools and colleges has undoubtedly contributed to the rise in cases nationwide. As a result of college reopenings, at least two university students tragically died from COVID-19 over the past week.

Chad Dorrill, a 19-year-old student athlete at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina, died Tuesday. According to a statement from Chancellor Sheri Everts, Dorrill was attending classes online and living off-campus, and was diagnosed with the coronavirus earlier in September.

Appalachian State University reported a new high of 180 current COVID-19 cases among students on Wednesday. Nearly 550 students have tested positive for the virus since in-person classes resumed last month. Despite news of Dorrills death, Appalachian State, part of the University of North Carolina system, will continue to offer a blend of fully face-to-face, hybrid, and online courses.

Jezreel Lowie B. Juan, a student at University of Hawaii West Oahu, died Friday from COVID-19. Juan had transferred to the West Oahu campus in 2019 as a junior after attending Honolulu Community College. A university spokeswoman said Wednesday, As a first-generation immigrant, his drive to work in the STEM field to make his family proud became clear as he spoke passionately about his degree and what it could afford him and his family.

UH West Oahu is open to university students and employees and closed to the general public. The university is one of 10 college campuses in the University of Hawaii system that began their academic year on August 24.

These recent deaths and the hundreds that have been reported since the onset of the pandemic are the result of a criminal conspiracy by the Trump administration and state governments to cover up the threat of the virus among young people in order to push through school reopenings and the broader reopening of the economy.

Documents recently obtained by the New York Times show that Deborah Birx, the White House coronavirus response coordinator, and Marc Short, Vice President Mike Pences chief of staff, told the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to downplay the threat of the coronavirus to young people.

The CDC was asked by White House staff to provide data that showed cases among young people were decreasing, and that showed young people have the lowest COVID-19 mortality rates. No consideration was given to the numerous accounts of severe illness among children or their ability to spread the pandemic to others, much less the actual mortality rate itself.

The CDC has been manipulating its guidelines to state that young people are less impacted. In recent weeks, CDC guidelines have also been changed to no longer reflect the fact that the virus is transmitted through aerosolization.

The deaths of these six school employees and students are only a few tragic examples that show the virus is in fact deadly to elderly and young people alike and has immense consequences for families and whole communities.
The blue whale is the largest animal on Earth. It's also among the loudest.

"Sound is a vital mode of communication in the ocean environment, especially over long distances," said William Oestreich, a graduate student in biology at Stanford University's Hopkins Marine Station. "Light, or any sort of visual cue, is often not as effective in the ocean as it is on land. So many marine organisms use sound for a variety of purposes, including communicating and targeting food through echolocation."

Although whale songs have been studied for decades, researchers have had limited success in deciphering their meaning. Now, by recording both individual whales and their greater populations in the Northeast Pacific, researchers from Stanford and the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) have identified patterns in the trills and bellows of blue whales that indicate when the animals are migrating from their feeding grounds off the North American coast to their breeding grounds off Central America. Their research was published Oct. 1 in Current Biology.

"We decided to compare daytime and nighttime song patterns from month to month, and there, in the divergence and convergence of two lines, was this beautiful signal that neither of us really expected," said John Ryan, a biological oceanographer at MBARI and senior author of the paper. "As soon as that image popped up on the screen, Will and I were both like, 'Hello, behavior.'"

Further analysis across the five years of hydrophone recordings could reveal new information about blue whale migration, a 4,000-mile journey that ranks among the longest in the world - and which the creatures repeat every year. Despite the immensity of blue whales and their travels, scientists know very little about their behaviors, such as how they are responding to changes in the ecosystem and food supply from year to year. Being able to predict the travel of whales along this important route could also help prevent ship strikes.

Supping and singing

To capture whales singing solo and in chorus, the researchers used two advanced recording technologies: an underwater microphone - or hydrophone - and tags that the researchers placed on individual whales.

In 2015, MBARI deposited a hydrophone 18 miles off the Monterey coast, 3,000 feet (900 meters) under sea level. The hydrophone is wired to their MARS undersea cabled observatory, which provides it with power and communications. This seafloor eavesdropper has recorded the deep ocean soundscape almost continuously for more than five years.

"The hydrophone fits in your hand," said Ryan, who recommends listening to the hydrophone livestream in fall for optimal whale music (although only the humpback whale song can be heard through ordinary speakers). "It's a little instrument that produces big data - about two terabytes per month."

By focusing on the whale song wavelengths in the hydrophone data, the researchers noticed a distinct change over several months. Through the summers, the whale arias grew louder and were sung mostly at nighttime. Over the five years of data, the whale chorus was loudest around October and November, and singing happened more at nighttime. Following each annual peak in song activity, as the whales began to depart for warmer waters, singing became more of a daytime activity.

While daytime versus nighttime differences in singing behavior had been noted in previous research, the whale-borne tags, developed by the lab of Stanford biologist Jeremy Goldbogen, helped explain what these 24-hour patterns and their inversion in late autumn could mean. Fifteen tags tracked the sounds of their carriers through accelerometer measurements - which monitor vibrations - and, in some cases, integrated hydrophones. In the summer, the whales spent much of the daytime feasting, bulking up for the long journey ahead and reserved their musical interludes for nighttime. When the time came, migration was again accompanied by daytime songs.

"In the hydrophone data, we saw really strong patterns over this enormous spatial domain. When we saw the exact same pattern on individual animals, we realized that what we'd been measuring over hundreds of kilometers is actually a real behavioral signal - and one that represents the behavior of many different whales," said Oestreich. "As an ecologist, it's very exciting to observe so many whales, simultaneously, using one instrument."

Listening and learning

This research lays the groundwork for possibly predicting blue whale migration based on the transitions between the different song schedules - such forecasts could be used to warn shipping lanes further down the coast, like air traffic control but for the ocean. The researchers also hope that further analysis of the acoustic data will reveal more about whale behavior in response to environmental changes, such as warming waters and fickle food supplies.

"If, for example, we can detect differences in migration and foraging in response to changes in the environment, that is a really powerful and important way to keep an eye on this critically endangered species," said Goldbogen, who is an assistant professor of biology in the School of Humanities and Sciences and also senior author of the paper. "That's economically important, ecologically important and also culturally important."

Already, Oestreich is pursuing a related question: If we can use this signal to determine whether whales are foraging or migrating, are whales using it that way too? It's possible, said Oestreich, that a lone whale might listen around before giving up on feeding and heading south.

"Blue whales exist at incredibly low densities with enormous distances between them but, clearly, are sharing information in some way," said Oestreich. "Trying to understand that information sharing is one motivation, but also potentially using that signaling as a means to study them is another exciting possibility."

###

Additional Stanford co-authors are graduate student James Fahlbusch, former graduate student David Cade, and research associate Megan McKenna. Researchers from Cascadia Research Collective, University of California Santa Cruz, Naval Postgraduate School, Southall Environmental Associates and Moss Landing Marine Laboratories are also co-authors. Goldbogen is also a member of Stanford Bio-X.

This research was funded by the National Science Foundation, Stanford University, the David and Lucile Packard Foundation, the Office of Naval Research, the Office of Naval Operations (Living Marine Resources program) and the California Ocean Alliance. This research was conducted under National Marine Fisheries Service permit 16111 and 21678.
Plus, Bill's Message of the Day, an honest look at President Biden's press conference.

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Djibouti is one of the least prominent nations in Africa today, but this relatively small country nonetheless continues to play a gigantic role in the development of the continents ICT capacity.

Strategically situated by the strait where the Gulf of Eden and Red Sea meet, this region has been marred by decades of wars. Yet the former French colony has managed to remain stable, and this has made Djibouti a strong ally of many governments across the world, and has spurred the countrys rapid development. Today, Djibouti is considered one of the most important nations on the continent.

[image_library_tag f26a2f93-0308-49e9-b415-99e4a9da563e 320x350 alt="djibouti-map" title="djibouti-map" width="320" height="350"class="center "]

This is a big change from the past. For many years, Djibouti was regarded as one of the poorest and least developed African countries. Now, according to some commentators, the World Banks approval of a grant to support the nations geothermal exploration project last year is symbolic of the governments developmental aspirations. The exorbitant cost of electrical power has been cited as one of the greatest impediments to growth in the country.

In April, the World Bank published an Invitation for Prequalification for the drilling of four geothermal production wells in Djibouti. This project, which is also being sponsored by several governmental and private interests, is expected to double the countrys power supply and end its reliance on Ethiopia for electricity. It will also compliment efforts to diversify the countrys economy and create jobs through industrialization.

Currently, the Djiboutian economy is largely based on maritime services. The countrys main port - the Doraleh Port - has undergone much transformation since it was privatized in 2012. Officials have announced plans to further equip the nations harbors with the latest technology to fully capitalize on its strategic position between Asia, the Middle East and Africa.

Analyzing the most connected country in Africa

For many, the most notable thing about this obscure nation in the horn of Africa is that it is one of the most connected countries in the continent today. This is despite the comparatively small size of its population (859, 652) and the states monopoly on internet and mobile network service.

Djibouti currently hosts about seven submarine fiber optic cables and thereby acts as a transit point for neighboring countries like Ethiopia, Eritrea, Somalia, Kenya and many others in the region.

Nonetheless, critics continue to underscore the states monopoly over the countrys information technology sector as the greatest drawback to its further expansion. Djibouti Telecom is currently the sole internet and mobile network service provider in the country.

But this has not entirely stifled private interests. Earlier in the year, MTN revealed that the Djibouti Data Center (DDC) had been selected as the gateway point in the continent for its global (Multiprotocol Label Switching Virtual Private Network) MPLS VPN service.

Anthony Voscarides, CEO of Djiboutis Data Center has noted that the center offers MTN the opportunity for unique collocation facilities, cable head backhaul and cross connect services, and Internet Exchange services in one of the fastest growing regions in the world.

MTN officials have announced plans to expand the MPLS VPN service to over 32 countries in the continent by the end of this year. It is however unclear if the company has any intent to set up in Djibouti or if Djiboutian authorities have plans of privatizing this sector anytime soon.

Last month, Orange revealed that another international undersea cable is set to be constructed through Djibouti. The 20,000km Sea-Me-We-5 (South East Asia-Middle East-Western Europe 5) will extend from France to Singapore.

Pundits have noted that this connection will facilitate the expansion of Oranges network in Africa. The company has meanwhile disclosed that thanks to the inter-connection point in Djibouti, Orange can open up a new route towards the Indian Ocean to support the booming growth of broadband services in the islands of Reunion and Mayotte.

One of the United Arab Emirates leading network service providers, GBI, has recently also announced plans for extending its undersea cable to Djibouti in a bid to extend into the African continent.

The Chairman of DDC, John Melick, has relayed his excitement about GBIs expansion into Africa. According to him, The addition of the GBI cable system to the DDC ecosystem significantly enhances the DDCs emergence as the leading strategic global and regional hub in East Africa.

He went on to explain that the center is actively contributing in enhancing the communication landscape in Djibouti, East Africa, transforming the economies, and further empowering the business communities by securing connectivity.

In May, international carrier service provider, BICS, also announced that the DDC has been selected as its gateway into the continent. Johan Wouters, the SVP Capacity Business Management at BICS, disclosed that the company expects to expand and grow significantly by penetrating the African market.

Solving the low internet & mobile penetration in the region

Currently, the internet and mobile penetration rates in Djibouti are estimated to be among the lowest in the region. East Africa reportedly also has one of the lowest internet and mobile penetration rates in the continent. To correct this, Djiboutian authorities have commissioned several initiatives to promote the use of ICT among the general population.

In June, the University of Djibouti officially launched an e-campus in a bid to extend admission to students in neighboring countries. The Minister of Higher Education and Research, Dr Nabil Mohamed Ahmed explained that This is the perfect platform upon which to build our continuing investment in the youth of this region, for whom world-class education is essential.

Earlier in the year, the DDC commissioned a new internet exchange point to improve the quality of local networks and reduce internet costs in the region.

In June, the center also announced a special offer for African carriers to access its internet exchange points at a fraction of the usual cost. The move, which has been described as the democratization of the internet, will result in reduced network latency as well as faster and cheaper connectivity for network operators.

Mr. Voscarides explained that Africa has historically been challenged by high internet costs. We are leveraging the DDCs ecosystem to improve local internet performance, efficiency, resilience, and cost by keeping traffic local. The results are all round improvements for service providers and end users in the region.

Djiboutian authorities have repeatedly highlighted the important role of private investors in moving the nation towards its developmental goals. To facilitate their investment in the country, the government has eliminated bureaucratic barriers and formulated several conducive policies. Experts say the country is presently one of the safest investment destinations in the region.

Last month, the World Bank announced that it will dole out a US$4 million loan to support a project aimed at attracting private investors into the country.

The World Bank Resident Representative in Djibouti, Home-Zara Fotouhi, pointed out that In recent years, Djibouti has recognized the potential of the private sector to generate jobs and growth as a means to tackle the countrys persistently high unemployment and poverty rates.

Meanwhile, Djiboutian officials have signed deals with the governments of Saudi Arabia, Turkey and China that will facilitate the transfer of technological know-how to the country.

Experts say due to its strategic location as a bridge between Africa and the rest of the world, Djiboutis technological sector has a high potential for growth. According to some, this area of the economy could easily topple maritime services as the main source of national income.

K.O.Peppeh is a professional journalist and freelance writer from Ghana, West Africa. He is part of a new generation of writers leveraging technology to develop a new, powerful voice for the African continent.
Notwithstanding recent pleas by Dhaka, New Delhi on Thursday refrained from publicly nudging Aung San Suu Kyis government in Nay Pyi Taw to expeditiously take back nearly a million Rohingyas, who had fled ethnic cleansing in Myanmar and taken refuge in Bangladesh.

New Delhi, however, discussed with Nay Pyi Taw the development projects in Myanmars restive Rakhine State, where the Rohingyas fled from and sailed in small boats across the Bay of Bengal to take refuge in Coxs Bazar in Bangladesh.

Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Thursday had a virtual meeting with his counterpart in Myanmar Government, U Soe Han. They reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral relations, including border cooperation and upgradation of border infrastructure, status of Indias ongoing development projects in Myanmar, bilateral trade and investment ties as well as power and energy cooperation.

Shringla noted during his meeting with U Soe Han that New Delhis cooperation with Nay Pyi Taw under the Rakhine State Development Programme continued apace. He also noted that India and Myanmar had of late started trilateral cooperation with Japan to create soft infrastructure for 15 schools in the Rakhine State.

The Foreign Secretary also stated that New Delhi would continue efforts towards ensuring an early, safe and sustainable repatriation of the internally displaced persons in Myanmar.

He, however, did not directly refer to the issue of repatriation of nearly one million Rohingyas, who had fled from Myanmar to Bangladesh. The press-release issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) too did not have any mention of the return of the refugees from Bangladesh to Myanmar.

The progress in the Rakhine State Development Programme, which is being implemented under our development cooperation project, was discussed, Anurag Srivastava, the spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), said, when a journalist asked him if the repatriation of the return of the Rohingyas from Bangladesh to Myanmar had been touched upon during the virtual meeting between the Foreign Secretary and his counterpart in Nay Pyi Taw.

The India-Myanmar virtual Foreign Office Consultation on Thursday came just two days after External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his counterpart in Bangladesh Government, A K Abdul Momen, had a video conference. A joint statement issued after Jaishankar-Momen video conference noted that the two ministers reiterated the importance of the safe, speedy and sustainable return of the forcibly displaced Rohingyas from Bangladesh to Myanmar. Momen also told Jaishankar that Bangladesh would expect India, which would start its two-year stint as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, to play during its stint on the horse-shoe table a more meaningful role to ensure safe and sustainable return of the Rohingyas from Bangladesh to Myanmar.

The minority Rohingyas have since long been victims of persecution in the Rakhine State, where Buddhists constitute the majority. They have been denied citizenship and most of them have been stateless, despite living for generations in Myanmar.

Myanmar's armed forces launched the latest military crackdown against the Rohingyas on August 25, 2017 after a militant outfit killed 12 security personnel in Rakhine. With hundreds of them killed and villages burnt down, over 742,000 more Rohingyas, including women and children, fled Myanmar and took refuge in Bangladesh, taking the number of refugees to nearly one million.

New Delhi, however, stood by Aung San Suu Kyi's Government and refrained from joining others in criticising her. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had in fact visited Nay Pyi Taw just a week after the violence against the Rohingyas started in Rakhine. He and Suu Kyi had agreed on the need for undertaking both infrastructure and socio-economic projects for overall development in the Rakhine State.

India, however, in 2017 committed financial assistance of $ 25 million (US $ 5 million per year) for undertaking projects in Rakhine State over a period of five years.

New Delhi completed construction of 250 prefabricated houses in the first phase of the Rakhine State Development Program for the Rohingyas, who were expected to return from Bangladesh to Myanmar. Though the prefabricated houses were already handed over to the Government of Myanmar by July 2019, the much-awaited repatriation of the refugees is yet to start.

Kyaw Tint Swe, a minister of Myanmar Government, earlier this week told the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) that the militant groups like Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) and the Arakan Army (AA) had found a sanctuary in Bangladesh. He also said that the organisations like the ARSA and AA had resorted to intimidation and violence in the refugee camps in Coxs Bazar in Bangladesh to stall the repatriation and the Sheikh Hasinas government in Dhaka should do more to stop them. His statement irked Bangladesh, which accused the Myanmar Government of resorting to disinformation campaign.

New Delhi has been treading cautiously on the issue, maintaining a delicate balance between the two neighbouring nations  Bangladesh and Myanmar, where India has been trying to resist Chinas moves to expand strategic footprints.
Eight leading business organisations from across Northern Ireland have begged the Executive not to put the economy in lockdown again, as Stormont does not have "the financial firepower" to support firms throughout another crisis.

They fear that a second lockdown, without the same degree of financial support available earlier this year, will result in business closures and job losses.

Yesterday Health Minister Robin Swann said there is a need for further restrictions. He said he would not be taking a region-wide "circuit-break" lockdown off the table. However, Economy Minister Diane Dodds warned on Tuesday that we "simply cannot afford another lockdown".

In a joint statement, Belfast Chamber; Causeway Chamber; Derry Chamber; Hospitality Ulster; Manufacturing NI; Newry Chamber; NI Retail Consortium and Retail NI said: "We are all well aware of the huge challenge before the Executive as it continues to respond to the coronavirus pandemic.

"Equally, it has been a really tough time for businesses in many sectors of our economy with both employers and employees facing into an uncertain future. Throughout the crisis created by Covid-19, businesses have stepped forward and played their part.

"We understand how ministers may have to introduce additional measures to help in the fight against the virus; however, we have come together to ask that they carefully consider the impact that each of their actions have on businesses and their staff and we especially implore you to resist placing our economy in any type of lockdown again.

"It is absolutely clear that the Executive does not have the financial firepower to offer the kind of levels of support previously available to businesses during the last lockdown.

"Our fear is that a lockdown without sufficient support for businesses will result in closures and a considerable number of job losses and that devastating economic impact is something we urge ministers to have at the forefront of their minds."

The groups said they recognise that the Executive faces "an enormous task, but we encourage them to work with business to find solutions that ensure that when we get through this crisis, as we will, we can retain jobs, keep businesses open and have an economy that is strong and capable of growing again".
Check out our great lineup of Boss Plows, and spreaders. 2 Locations Clarksburg & Pittsfield!
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The Republican Party of Broward County has issued their Official Republican Voter Guide for the November 2020 General Election. The party has made recommendations from the top of the ballot with President Donald J. Trump, all the way down to local municipal races. It also includes statewide amendments as well as Broward County charter amendments.

The Broward GOP Voter Guide is online at the Broward Republican Party website browardgop.com.

Go to BrowardGOP.com to learn more about recommendations for the November 3rd election.

"We are letting voters know which candidates support lower taxes, a strong economy, safer schools, law and order, and the list goes on and on," Vice Chair Tom Powers explained. "This is an election like no other. The parties couldn't be more different, and the choices couldn't be more clear," Powers continued.

The Broward GOP website also has many ways for volunteers to get involved with the local party and candidates' campaigns. Voters with serious concerns about their ballot or best voting practices should also consider contacting the Broward Supervisor of Elections.

With absentee ballots already hitting mailboxes, voters are currently making decisions that will impact the outcome on Election Day. Early voting begins October 19th and continues on until November 1st. Election day is November 3rd, 2020.

"We are doing an aggressive campaign to not only turn out the Republican vote here in Broward County, but to inform Republican voters of all the great Republican candidates on the ballot," stated Broward GOP Chairman George Moraitis. "Our campaign plan allows us to touch every registered Republican who has requested a vote-by-mail ballot with our voter guide," Moraitis continued.

The party has sent out thousands of emails, text messages, robocalls, and physical mailers since the first round of vote-by-mail ballots were mailed.

"The Broward GOP Voter Guide continues to be a vital and highly-requested source of information for Republicans in Broward County," said Broward Republican State Committeeman Richard DeNapoli.

Precinct men and women of the Broward Republican Executive Committee are supplementing this party's digital engagement with personal precinct letters as well as door-to-door canvassing with the Broward GOP's endorsements listed on door hangers.

"We cannot do this important work without the help of our many volunteers and donors. We all have to pitch in to succeed this November," explained Broward Republican State Committeewoman Michele Merrell.

The party endorsements were voted upon by county-level executive committee leadership and guided by recommendations made from prominent Republican attorneys in the county, with additional input from the Republican Party of Florida.

The Broward GOP is a grassroots organization dedicated to increasing Republican voter turnout to get Republicans elected. It remains committed to re-electing President Donald J. Trump.

The board of the Broward GOP is made up of Chairman George Moraitis, Vice Chair Tom Powers, State Committeeman Richard DeNapoli, State Committeewoman Michele Merrell, Secretary Nancy Cooke, and Treasurer Jeff Brown.

Related Images

broward-gop-issues-voter-guide-for.jpg

Broward GOP Issues Voter Guide for November 3rd Election.

Go to BrowardGOP.com to learn more about recommendations for the November 3rd election.

SOURCE Broward Republicans

Related Links

https://www.browardgop.com


Now Open

1 October 2020

IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG), one of the world's leading hotel companies, has today opened Holiday Inn & Suites Shin Osaka - Japan's first Holiday Inn hotel featuring a suites product. Located in Shin-Osaka, moments from the world-famous Shin-Osaka Train Station and the gateway to some of Japan's most coveted areas, the hotel is a haven for adventure seekers, families and business travellers, offering memorable experiences, quality service and exceptionally comfortable accommodation.

126 of the hotel's 185 rooms feature an impressive kitchen space equipped with a full-sized refrigerator and microwave, a dedicated dining room, and laundry rooms complete with washers and dryers. The spacious 30-45 square metre suites emulate a home away from home, with the size and facilities ideal for families, groups and extended stay guests. Standard guest rooms offer bright, refreshing spaces ideal for shorter stays with well-loved Holiday Inn essentials including a dedicated work desk. True to the brand's promise, kids under 12 always stay and eat for free.

Taking design cues from the energy of the city, Holiday Inn & Suites Shin Osaka boasts open spaces and modern decor, with hotel facilities including two meeting spaces, fitness facilities and ample parking. Memorable dining comes to life with Cafe Hi!, a vibrant, sun-filled restaurant perfect for families. The lively restaurant offers fresh breakfast daily, Mexican-inspired lunch options, a la carte dinner, and small appetizers and beverages to unwind in the evenings.

For travellers looking to explore the neighbourhood, the hotel is a 10-minute walk from Shin-Osaka Station where guests will find the Shinkansen (bullet train) connections, the rail terminal gateway to Kansai, and easy access to Kansai International Airport and Osaka International Airport (Itami). To enable a seamless stay, Holiday Inn & Suites Shin-Osaka will also cover the cost of guests' taxi fares from Shin Osaka station upon check-in.

As part of IHG, guests will stay confident, assured and safe with the refined IHG Way of Clean using new, science-led protocols and service measures in partnership with industry leading experts Cleveland Clinic, Ecolab and Diversey - including the IHG Clean Promise to give guests greater confidence and hotel teams the protection needed.
Twitter

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has been arrested by Uttar Pradesh police when he with a few other Congress leaders was on his way to meet the family of the Hathras gangrape victim. Read more

Here's more top news of the day:

1) Dalit Woman Gang-Raped, Dies; 8-Yr-Old Girl Sexually Assaulted In UP; Another Minor Girl In MP

AFP

Even as the outrage and anger over the horrific gang-rape and murder of a 19-year-old Dalit girl in Hathras continues to boil over, two more shocking crimes against women have surfaced from Uttar Pradesh in the past 24 hours. Read more

2) How Kerala Went On From Being A Role Model In Containment To Having Around 2 Lakh COVID Cases

BCCL

In an indication of the worsening COVID-19 scenario, the state for the first time saw its daily cases crossing the 8,000 mark. The previous single-day high was 7,445 on Sunday. Read more

3) India Aims To Restore 26 Mn Hectares Of Degraded And Deforested Land: What It Means

BCCL

At a time when the PM Narendra Modi-led government is facing criticism for making it easier for companies to get environmental clearance, even inside protected areas, Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Prakash Javadekar has said that India has a culture of not just conserving and protecting nature, but living in harmony with it. Read more

4) Not A Cremation: The Hathras Victim's Body Was Forcibly Burnt & She Was Denied Dignity In Death

File Photo

In the dead of the night, the dead body of the 19-year-old Dalit woman who was gangraped by four upper caste men was forcibly burnt. The Uttar Pradesh police did not let the distraught family see their daughter for the last time. Read more

5) From Unnao & Kathua To Hathras, Casteist & Communal Groups Support & Sympathise With Rapists

PTI

Amidst all the oratorical drama of promising justice to a rape survivor and hanging heads in shame, the ground reality remains the same. Women continue to be raped and murdered in broad daylight and sometimes their bodies burnt in the dead of the night by authorities that are supposed to protect them, robbing them of dignity yet again. Read more
India is open to launching its own mobile app store or expanding an existing one if it receives enough demand from domestic firms for an alternative to Apple and Google platforms, a senior government official said on Thursday. The country has some 500 million smartphone users, most of whom use Google's Android platform, but Indian start-ups have criticised the company for policies they say stifle their growth. SoftBank-backed Paytm, one of India's leading payments firms, protested against the U.S. tech giant's decision to remove its app for a few hours last month citing ...
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. Defense Minister of Armenia Davit Tonoyan received on October 1 Ambassador of France to Armenia Jonathan Lacote, ARMENPRESS was informed from the press service of the Defense Ministry of Armenia.

The Ambassador offered condolences over the military and civilian victims of the recent-days military operations, noting that France is extremely worried over the escalation and attentively follows the developments.

The Armenian Defense Minister informed that the military operations unleashed by Azerbaijan and unconditionally supported by Turkey is of unprecedented scale. The operations cover the entire line of contact. Davit Tonoyan emphasized that the Defense Army fulfills its tasks and repelling the aggression of the adversary, while the attacks of the Azerbaijani armed forces will continuously receive destructive blows  a process that has already started.

During the meeting an agreement was received to keep in constant touch and exchange information on developments.

Editing and translating by Tigran Sirekanyan
Former Leighton Holdings chief financial officer Peter Gregg has had two convictions of falsifying the company's books quashed, after the Court of Criminal Appeal found a prosecutor's comments during the trial gave rise to a "substantial miscarriage of justice".

Mr Gregg was initially found guilty by a NSW District Court jury in 2018 of two counts of falsifying Leighton's books, contrary to section 1307(1) of the Corporations Act. He was jailed for a year on one charge and two years on the other, with the sentences to be served concurrently as an Intensive Correction Order.

Former Leighton Holdings chief financial officer Peter Gregg. Credit:Louise Kennerley

Mr Gregg appealed against his sentence and convictions on several grounds, including that the verdicts were unreasonable, the trial judge erred by failing to accept material into evidence, and two miscarriages of justice arose from the prosecutor's closing address and the judge's summing-up to the jury.

In a judgment on Wednesday, Chief Justice Tom Bathurst ordered that the guilty verdict on each count be quashed and verdicts of acquittal be entered. His judgment was agreed with by Chief Judge at Common Law Clifton Hoeben and Justice Mark Leeming.
Come together, right now, says Beatles convention producer and Liverpool tour arranger Charles Rosenay of Orange, whose latest Liverpool Productions project is a tribute concert to John Lennon on what would have been his 80th birthday.

The Friday, Oct. 9, concert was in planning for 14 months as a live concert in Fairfield County, said Rosenay in an email exchange  long before COVID-19 pushed so many such events into a virtual space. The 7 p.m. concert, Remember Lennon: Imagine 80, likewise will be livestreamed at rememberlennon.com.
According to the Icelandic Meteorological Office, a small glacial outburst flood (jokulhlaup) from Grimsvotn's subglacial lake was occurring on 6 May, increasing the water level in the Gigjukvisl River. Electrical conductivity measurements indicated a considerable increase of a geothermal contribution to the river water. Based on information from the Institute of Earth Sciences, the water available for drainage was 0.2-0.3 cubic kilometers, therefore the maximum discharge of the flood was expected to be less than 700 cubic meters per second, occurring towards the middle of the week. ...
Agencies sign agreement to partially fuel Maya Train with electricity

Cancun, Q.R.  The Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) and the National Tourism Promotion Fund (Fonatur) have signed an agreement to draw up a collaboration route in order to modernize and adapt the electrical networks that will supply the electrical energy necessary for the railway infrastructure of the Maya Train in the southeast.

Rogelio Jimenez Pons, Director of Fonatur and Manuel Bartlett Diaz, General Director of the CFE, finalized the collaboration agreement with which they will implement the projects electrification strategy. In adherence to the commitment of the Government of Mexico regarding protection of the environment, Fonatur modified the Maya Train project so that 40 percent of the route will operate on electrical energy.

I am pleased that this agreement with the CFE has been finalized. I am sure that working hand-in-hand, the Maya Train could be an avant-garde technology project. In addition, it will be able to demonstrate that with the electrification of 40 percent of its route, large-scale work can be carried out in the country that fulfill the responsibility of governments to be more environmentally friendly, said Jimenez Pons.

The CFE will provide its experience and technical and human capacity to carry out the engineering, supervision and construction work of the electrical infrastructure in the states of Yucatan, Campeche, Quintana Roo, Tabasco and Chiapas, while Fonatur will provide the resources, as well as the facilities and information for the development of the project.

CFE Distribucion, CFE Transmission and CFE Basic Supply, Subsidiary Productive Companies of the CFE, will participate in the planning, development, implementation, installation and operation of the electrical infrastructure for the Tren Maya.

Rogelio Jimenez Pons, Director of Fonatur and Manuel Bartlett Diaz of CFE sign agreement

In their statement, the agencies explained that the sections corresponding to the Merida-Cancun-Chetumal route will be electrified. This represents 680 kilometers of route, including double lanes for multiple services.

The design for these sections with the expected higher demand, was modified to incorporate electric traction in the rolling stock and in the railway infrastructure. For the rest of the route, there is the possibility of electrifying in the future, however, according to the original project, the remaining 60 percent of the section will be powered by diesel.
Contributed Photo / Connecticut State Police

PROSPECT  Schools in the area of a crash involving a stolen vehicle have been put into lockdown as a precaution Thursday morning, according to state police.

Connecticut State Police troopers are in the area of Route 69 and Radio Tower Road, investigating the crash.
You have to wait. It will be several days, next week probably, before you know whether you have been affected by the error.

The best estimate at the moment is that about 6,500 students of the 60,419 who received calculated grades had at least one grade that was lower than it should have been.

Further checks are being carried out to ensure that there are no more surprises, hence the delay.

What if the checks find that instead of being awarded a lower grade, I was awarded a higher grade?

In that case, you have what you hold. No student will receive a reduced grade in any subject as a result of this process.

Read More

How will I know whether I am affected?

The Department of Education says it will text all students to advise whether they have been affected and in what way.

I have already started a CAO course, although I would have preferred one higher up the list. What are my chances of getting that now?

Hard to say, but Higher Education Minister Simon Harris has braced himself for about 1,000 new offers

Not every affected student will get an offer. Receiving a higher grade, in one or more subjects, will boost your points, but the extra points may not necessarily bring you to the minimum threshold for entry to the course.

In most cases, it was only one subject in which students received a lower grade, so, for these students, the potential to increase points would be limited.

However, its not only about points. For some students, a higher grade may mean achieving an entry requirement for a course, such as a H4 in maths.

What happens if I do become entitled to a higher offer?

Work is already underway to see what the colleges can do in terms of opening more places. They are approaching it positively and want to accommodate the maximum number of students possible, but there are likely to be pinch points in areas such as dentistry, medicine and veterinary and some students may be asked to defer for a year.

Offers will be made after the revised results are issued so it will be at least a week.

Its a difficult year to be entering college anyway and Im not sure I would want to start on a course so late. What do you think?

That will be up to each individual student. You could ask your school guidance counsellor for some advice. The National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals (NAPD) has said that each students school principal, teachers and career guidance counsellor will remain available for support where needed.

A Department of Education helpline - 01 8892199 - is open Friday (October 2) from 8:30-5pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 11am-4pm.

The National Parents Council (Post-Primary), in conjunction with guidance counsellors, is also re-opening the Leaving Certificate helpline next week, running from Monday to Friday between 11am- 4pm each day.

I was disappointed with some of my results and was planning to sit the Leaving Cert in November. What should I do?

Wait and see whether the corrected grades bring good news for you. The original deadline for the November sitting was Friday, October 2, but Education Minister Norma Foley said that it would be extended. Further details are awaited. In any event, there is no is no fee to apply to sit the exams in November, so even if you apply and ultimately decide not to do the papers, there is no financial risk.

I was disappointed in my grades and submitted an appeal last week. What happens that appeal?

You were one of 12,292 students who appealed 33,677 individual grades. Those appeals will continue as normal but are restricted to checking that the data relating to - eg, your schools estimated marks and rankings - were correctly entered and transmitted.

The errors that came to light this week are unrelated to that.

So what gave rise to the mistakes that we are hearing about now?

Two coding errors have been detected in the computer programme used during the calculated grades process to standardise the results. There were 50,000 lines of code used.

The Junior Cert results of the Leaving Cert class of 2020 were used as a check against the reliability of the estimated marks provided by schools. Both errors concerned how Junior Cert results were treated.

It was intended that a schools results in Irish, English and maths would be included together with students best two other subjects. The reverse happened and, instead, the weakest two other subjects were used.

Polymetrika, the Canadian statistical software company that programmed the code, discovered the error last week and told the department

When the department was checking that out, it found another error  that the Junior Cycle subject Civic, Social and Political Education (CSPE) was also included in the calculations, and it should not have been.
Watch: Matt Hancock announces new restrictions for parts of northern England

Matt Hancock has announced a ban on mixing with other households in the Liverpool City Region, Warrington, Hartlepool and Middlesbrough after a spike in coronavirus infections.

The new rules will restrict social mixing for almost two million people.

The health secretary said indoor mixing between households will be illegal, and guidance will advise people not to mix with others in outdoor public spaces such as parks.

The measures mirror those introduced in the North East on Monday to tackle the spread of COVID-19.

Downing Street said they would come into force on Saturday morning at one minute past midnight.

Hancock told the Commons: Earlier this week we brought in further measures in the North East, however in parts of Teesside and the north-west of England cases continue to rise fast.

In Liverpool, the number of cases is 268 per 100,000 population, so together we need to act. Working with council leaders and the mayors, Im today extending these measures that have been in the North East since the start of this week to the Liverpool City Region, Warrington, Hartlepool and Middlesbrough.

We will provide 7 million to local authorities in these areas to support them with their vital work.

The new rules apply to Liverpool city region, Warrington, Hartlepool and Middlesbrough. (PA)

Hancock said that the more people follow the rules, the quicker Liverpool and the North East can get back on their feet.

He told the Commons: I understand how much of an imposition this is. I want rules like this to stay in place for as short a time as possible, Im sure we all do.

The health secretary also announced that Bolton, which had seen measures limit restaurants and pubs to takeaway only, would be aligned with the rest of the Greater Manchester.

In addition, no changes are being made to the rules in West Yorkshire, West Midlands, Leicester, Lancashire or Greater Manchester.

The tighter restrictions were heavily criticised by Middlesbrough mayor Andy Preston, who branded them unacceptable.

Story continues

Govt Restrictions Are Unacceptable



We tried to communicate with govt but they didnt listen



Theyre imposing restrictions thatll kill viable jobs & damage mental health



I do not accept the governments intended restrictions - theyre based on ignorance



Updates to follow pic.twitter.com/ZqtE1ES8gm  Andy Preston Mayor (@Tees_Issues) October 1, 2020

He tweeted that the government that had failed to listen and added that imposing restrictions thatll kill viable jobs & damage mental health.

I do not accept the governments intended restrictions  theyre based on ignorance.

Shane Moore, independent leader of Hartlepool council, said he agreed with the criticism.

He told Sky News: One of the things that we were very clear about was that we would not enter any form of restriction until we knew what the exit strategy was.

We need our residents to know what they are aiming for. We need to how we can get out of these restrictions.

And whats very evident is that information is not forthcoming from the government.

In the North West, Labour mayor of Liverpool Joe Anderson accepted the measures but described the 7 million support package as nowhere near enough.

Watch: UK coronavirus cases rising - why are deaths still low?

Responding to the new measures, shadow health secretary Jon Ashworth said Labour supported the measures but said there needed to be more financial support and demanded to know what the government was doing to stop people piling out of pubs at 10pm.

Labour MP for Wallasey, one of the areas affected by the new measures, Angela Eagle said: I completely understand the need for additional measures to be brought in, but the governments chaotic approach risks peoples livelihoods and their lives.

Read more: Boris Johnsons father Stanley pictured shopping without face covering

She added the test and taste system was woefully inadequate.

On Wednesday, Boris Johnson insisted the governments coronavirus rules were common sense, but a poll found 64% of Britons thought they were unclear.

As local lockdowns come into force in Denbighshire, Flintshire, Conwy and Wrexham in North Wales from 6pm on Thursday, more than a third of the UK population will be subject to some form of extra controls.

Coronavirus: what happened today

Click here to sign up to the latest news, advice and information with our daily Catch-up newsletter
By IANS

SAN FRANCISCO: Alphabet and Google CEO Sundar Pichai on Thursday announced its biggest USD 1 billion investment for the future of news in partnerships with news publishers that would pay them to create and curate high-quality content for quality online news experience.

Pichai launched Google News Showcase that features the editorial curation of award-winning newsrooms to give readers more insight on the stories that matter, and in the process, helps publishers develop deeper relationships with their audiences.

"We've signed partnerships for News Showcase with nearly 200 leading publications across Germany, Brazil, Argentina, Canada, the UK and Australia. The number of news publications will grow as we work to expand News Showcase to other countries including India, Belgium and the Netherlands," Pichai said in a blog post.

Google News Showcase will start rolling out in Germany and Brazil from Thursday and come to other countries where local frameworks support these partnerships. News Showcase is made up of story panels that will appear initially in Google News on Android.

The product will launch soon on Google News on iOS, and will come to Google Discover and Search in the future. "Other components like video, audio and daily briefings will come next," Pichai said. The USD 1 billion investment is another step from Google to support the news industry.

The publications include award-winning national titles like Der Spiegel, Stern, Die Zeit, Folha de S.Paulo, Band and Infobae, alongside regionally and locally significant publications such as El Litoral, GZH, WAZ and SooToday.

The company said from sending 24 billion visits to news websites globally every month to the Google News Initiative's (GNI) USD 300 million commitment, including emergency funding for local publishers globally to help with the impact of COVID-19, it is helping small and medium-sized publishers accelerate their business growth.

Google News Showcase, said Pichai, is distinct from other news products "because it leans on the editorial choices individual publishers make about which stories to show readers and how to present them".

Google News Showcase builds on the existing news licensing programme, which is paying publishers for quality journalism and other news-related efforts like Subscribe with Google, Web Stories and audio news.

"Both Google News Showcase and our financial investment - which will extend beyond the initial three years - are focused on contributing to the overall sustainability of our news partners around the world," Pichai said, adding that the company aims to play its part by helping journalism in the 21st century not just survive, but thrive.

"I have always valued quality journalism and believed that a vibrant news industry is critical to a functioning democratic society," he said.
That phone call was a sea of static, but he's been my best friend long enough for me to recognize the chopped-up voice on the other end  and to know when he was legitimately in trouble.

I'm no nature boy, but my best friend is. My idea of relaxing is bad TV and Cheezits. His is a hiking trail, often in the pitch middle of nowhere. On many weekends, my text messages of "I'm bored, wanna grab lunch?" are frequently replied with, "I would but I'm on a hill somewhere in Wisconsin." In all those years, though, none of his hikes have EVER resulted in a phone call like this.

I was flummoxed. What does one do with this information? You can't exactly call 911 and go, "Help, I think my friend is lost ... somewhere. I presume the Midwest. Find him please."

Still, I thought back to all the times I've relied on him for the most ridiculous of assistance. The time he came over at midnight just to help me change the battery in a chirping smoke detector. The time he stayed up all night talking me off the ledge when I got dumped. He's changed more tires on my car than I have. He's made me laugh harder than anyone else on the planet. He's my best friend, and we're always gonna be there for each other.
Gurugram, Oct 1 : The Gurugram Police arrested a criminal along with his associate who had allegedly murdered a district-level taekwondo player in November 2019 for rejecting his marriage proposal.

The district police had put a bounty of Rs 25,000 on his head in connection with the murder, officials told the media on Thursday.

The wanted criminal has been identified as Sombir, a resident of Jhajjar district in Haryana. His accomplice was identified as Jintender Nayak Bhopa of Dosa in Rajasthan.

Following inputs about the location of the criminals, the Gurugram Police nabbed them from Dosa in Rajasthan on Wednesday.

According to the police, Sombir, who is a wrestler, had killed Sarita, a 25-year-old taekwondo practitioner from Bhora Khurd village in Pataudi, Gurugram on November 12, 2019. He had been absconding since then.

A murder case was registered against the accused at Bilaspur police station in Gurugram.

"Recently on September 26, the duo had snatched a phone from a person in Dharuhera area in Rewari and had also demanded Rs 50 lakh as ransom amount from a shopkeeper identified as Balvaan Singh, a resident of Bilaspur in Gurugram and threatened him with dire consequence if he failed to pay the money. A separate case was filed against them at Dharuhera police station," ACP (crime) Preet Pal Sangwan said.

Five cases have already been registered against Sombir in Gurugram and Rewari districts, the police said.

"During interrogation, Sombir confessed that he had killed the woman after she refused to marry him. The accused allegedly shot her from point-blank range on her chest with a countrymade pistol. The victim reportedly died instantly," Sangwan said.

The family of the victim had alleged that the accused had been harassing her for a long time and the woman had earlier filed a complaint against Sombir.

"The accused will be taken on remand for further questioning," Sangwan added.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-09-27 23:51:47|Editor: huaxia

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Members of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) check damaged areas during the port explosions in Beirut, Lebanon, Sept. 30, 2020. The UNIFIL deployed on Sunday a detachment of multinational force to Beirut in order to assist Lebanese authorities to deal with the aftermath of the August 4 explosions. (Xinhua/Bilal Jawich)

BEIRUT, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) deployed on Sunday a detachment of multinational force to Beirut in order to assist Lebanese authorities to deal with the aftermath of the August 4 explosions.

With a request from the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), the deployment on early Sunday follows the authorization by the UN Security Council for the Mission to take "temporary and special measures" to provide support to Lebanon and its people after the explosions, according to a statement released by the UNIFIL.

The UNIFIL peacekeepers deployed to the Lebanese capital with heavy machinery and other equipment, it added.

The UNIFIL's assistance, which will be executed in three phases in about three weeks, is operational at the port as well as in the city center with an engineer-centered task force.

The support will mainly include clearing of debris and construction work in order to facilitate the rapid resumption of operations in the Beirut harbor.

UNIFIL Chief General Stefano Del Col said that it's a special moment for all UNIFIL members to be able to offer some tangible support to the population in need.

"It is important for a Mission like UNIFIL with over 10,000 troops to help the country that has hosted us for more than 42 years. This support is also in line with the recent call of the UN Security Council for a strengthened UNIFIL-LAF cooperation," he said. Enditem
Undated file photo of Lao national Sangkhane Thitsy Phachanthavong, who had complained about corruption in the communist-run country on social media was arrested at his home in southern Laos, Aug. 26, 2020.

A Lao activist who was detained in late August for posting criticism of government corruption on Facebook has been released on bail after more than a month in jail, according to his recent comments on the social media platform.

After writing about graft and abuses in the impoverished one-party state, Sangkhane Phachanthavong, better known as Thitsy, was arrested at his home in southern Laoss Champassak province on Aug. 26 and questioned in jail about links to an anti-government group of overseas Laotians.

Its like being dead and then reborn. Thank you for justice and my loved ones who were worried about my ideology and my love for this country, Thitsy wrote on Facebook Wednesday, a day after he was bailed out.

The status update did not however reveal the amount of bail paid or any other terms of his release.

RFAs Lao Service contacted the Investigative and Interrogative Unit of the Champassak Police Department to clarify, but an officer there said he did not know what the terms of release were and did not want to comment on the case.

An official from the provincial prosecutors office told RFA revealed slightly more, saying under condition of anonymity, Mr. Sangkhane Phachanthavong has been authorized to be bailed out; but he still faces charges according to the law.

Ruled by the Lao Peoples Revolutionary Party since 1975, Laos government brooks no opposition in any form and locks up citizens who post popular gripes and mild criticism on Facebook about corruption and mismanagement.

Before Thitsys arrest, a 30-year-old woman named Houayheuang Xayabouly was jailed for five years in November for defaming the country in complaints about the government response to floods in a Facebook Live video. And three Lao workers got jail terms of more than a decade in 2017 for criticizing the government on Facebook while working in Thailand.

The release of the activist, the first known case in which bail was granted to a political prisoner, came a day Laos restrictions on free speech were criticized was at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva.

Cecilia Andersson of Britain used the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of Laos rights record to highlight the countrys poor record on freedom of expression.

The U.K. notes the Lao PDR statement that the constitution and related laws guarantee freedom of expression, however we remain concerned about restrictions on foreign news agencies and the use of intimidation against critics of the state. she said Monday.

A network of human rights defenders and democracy advocates for Laos expressed to RFA support for Thitsy.

We, the Alliance for Democracy in Laos, along with the entire Lao community around the world, have been demanding justice for Mr. Sangkhane Phachantavong and are really happy having seen him freed, said the groups president Bounthone Chanthalavong-Wise.

The release indicates that pressure on the Lao government from all of us on the global stage has been effective, Chanthalavong-Wise said.

New York-based Human Rights Watch (HRW), meanwhile commended Thitsys release.

He deserves to be released. I hope the Lao government understand that when people comment about something important on Facebook or in public, the government should listen and respect their rights, said HRWs deputy Asia Director Phil Robertson.

In 2014, the Lao government issued a decree prohibiting online criticism of the government and the ruling Lao Peoples Revolutionary Party (LPRP), setting out stiff penalties for netizens and internet service providers who violate government controls.



The decree also requires netizens to use their real names when setting up social media and other accounts online.

According to a 2017 U.S. State Department report, the bail system in Laos is implemented arbitrarily.

Washington-based Freedom House classified Laos as not free with a global freedom score of 14 out of 100 in its 2020 Freedom of the World survey. The Southeast Asian country scored 2 out of 40 in political rights, and 12 out of 60 in civil liberties.

Reported by RFAs Lao Service. Translated by Max Avary. Written in English by Eugene Whong.
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Hakeem Odumosu, has ordered the detention and orderly room trial of Adadu Innocent, an inspector of police who brutalised a journalist during the October 1 protest in Lagos.

The officer hit a photojournalist with The Punch newspaper, Olukayode Jaiyeola, on the head while covering the protest on Thursday.

PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported how several protesters were arrested at Maryland during the Thursday rally organised by the Coalition for Revolution.

The protesters marched in their numbers from Ojota area of the metropolis to Maryland to express displeasure over the general state of the country, including the hike in petroleum price, suppression of freedom of speech, freedom to associate, and others.

The protesters who defied all odds, including a warning by the police against rallies and protests, were stopped at Maryland, where not less than 30 of them were rounded up and a journalist brutalised.

In a statement, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the spokesperson of the command, said the officer who attacked the journalist is attached to PMF 22 Ikeja.

The preliminary findings carried out by the commissioner of police and eyewitness accounts from senior officers on the ground, revealed that the cop suddenly attacked the journalist, without any previous altercation or confrontation.

This propelled the commissioner of police to order for his trial in order to serve as a deterrent to others who are fond of engaging in unprofessional and unethical conducts, Mr Adejobi wrote.

The police commissioner, who was monitoring the deployment and operational activities of officers and men of the command for the enforcement of the order against unlawful gathering and protest by some unpatriotic individuals, raced to the scene and personally moved the injured journalist to the Police Cottage (hospital) at Area F, GRA, Ikeja, the spokesperson added.

He further wrote that the police chief waited and ensured the injured journalist was given immediate and best medical treatment and stayed throughout the journalists treatment and subsequent discharge.

The commissioner however assured of the commands commitment to sanitising and reforming the policing system in Lagos State in conformity with the international standards.
Americans over age 30 have been drinking more during the COVID-19 pandemic, a new study funded by the National Institutes of Health has found, raising concern for researchers that stressed adults looking for relief during months of lockdown may be putting themselves at risk for other health concerns.

The study, by researchers at the RAND Corp. and the University of Indiana, was initially conceived as a five-year project looking at how peoples social networks influenced their substance use, said Michael Pollard, a RAND sociologist and the studys lead author. The first interviews of the 6,000 study participants were conducted in 2019.

Then the pandemic hit, and Pollard and his colleagues found themselves with a unique trove of data that shows how COVID-19 has affected the lives  and drinking habits  of thousands of Americans.

Initially, we were concerned that our primary interest was how peoples friends affect their drinking  and now the whole landscape of how people interact with their friends has changed. That kind of threw a monkey wrench into the project, Pollard said. But he said the researchers soon realized that the data they collected in 2019 could provide an important baseline to compare survey respondents drinking habits, pre-pandemic.

Their findings were alarming, he said.

Interviewing adults ages 30 to 80 in May and June, researchers found that peoples frequency of alcohol consumption had increased by 14% on average since 2019. Three out of four people in the study who had been drinking five days a month before were now drinking one more day a month.

Women saw a 41% increase, on average, in binge drinking, defined as four or more drinks in a few hours. One in five women in the study was binge drinking one more day per month than in 2019, Pollard said.

Women also reported an increase in negative consequences from drinking, including taking foolish risks, failing to do what was expected of them, and hurting their family with their drinking.

For a lot of these behaviors, like binge drinking, when you talk about how one in five women added a binge drinking day on average, that means most women still arent binge drinking, Pollard said. But the women who are binge drinking have to drink quite a bit more heavily to pull up the average.

Drinking to get through the stress of lockdown has been an enduring theme of the pandemic. Alcohol sales (outside of bars) soared around the country. (In Pennsylvania, liquor stores closed during the early days of the pandemic, and saw a drop in income from sales, but still managed to hit a record-high net income by the end of the fiscal year.)

Alcohol is viewed very differently from other substances, even smoking, even though it does have all these negative health effects, Pollard said. There are all these sort of jokes about increasing your drinking during COVID.

But considering the health problems that can result from heavy drinking, Pollard said, the study shows that individuals and health systems should be more aware of the risks of drinking during the pandemic.

Besides the risk of chronic health conditions, injuries, and interpersonal violence, people are more likely to smoke when they drink, said Pollard. Studies have shown smokers are at an increased risk of contracting COVID-19 and developing serious symptoms.

 READ MORE: Coronavirus poses extra risks for smokers and vapers. Will that make them quit?

The World Health Organization pointed out that heavy drinking is linked to acute respiratory distress syndrome, which is a real risk factor for contracting COVID, Pollard added. These increases in heavy drinking, in particular, have all these downstream outcomes.

Another concern is that if the pandemic, as we believe, has increased negative mental well-being, alcohol use also contributes to increased depression and anxiety. It could sort of reinforce itself in a vicious circle.

For people concerned about their drinking habits  or a change in drinking habits during the pandemic  the National Institutes of Health has a symptom list for alcohol use disorder on its website. The questionnaire asks participants about their drinking habits in the last year  ranging from whether theyd ended up drinking more or longer than theyd intended to, to continuing to drink despite it hurting family members or job prospects.

The NIH also has an online alcohol treatment navigator tool. In Pennsylvania, the state hotline for help finding drug and alcohol treatment is 800-662-4357 (800-662-HELP).
Five additional deaths due to COVID-19 were reported On Thursday in Webb County, with the city also confirming 98 new positives. Since the emergence of the pandemic, 14,000 people have now tested positive for the novel coronavirus in Laredo.

Three fatalities confirmed today were recorded Wednesday: two women in their 70s and a man in his early 60s. The other two deaths, a woman in her 90s and a woman her 40s, date back to late August.
A paedophile who raped a 13-year-old girl and bombarded her with more than 2500 lewd calls and texts has been jailed for just two years.

Tradesman Craig Beck, 36, arranged secret meetings at the girl's school in Victoria and once took her to a logging plantation for sex.

He also bought her a phone and said their sexual encounters in the Gippsland region, north of Melbourne, would be 'their little secret.'

Twisted paedophile Craig Beck bombarded the minor with over 2500 texts, some very lewd in nature

Craig Beck was sentenced to two years jail in the Victorian County Court on Thursday (stock image)

Beck was jailed in Victoria's County Court on Thursday for two years and must serve at least 12 months before he can be considered for parole.

Beck began sending the girl sexual text messages, including asking her what bra and underwear she was wearing, in August of 2019.

He sent her pictures of his genitals and also went to the girl's school during class breaks where he molested her.

'You act like you're 18 around me ... I love that,' Beck said in one text message.

Another read: 'I want you so bad'.

Phone records showed Beck communicated with her 2567 times between August and November in 2019.

When questioned by police, Beck responded by saying the girl had been 'clingy' and was actually the one pursuing him.

Craig Beck groomed a 13-year-old girl for sex in the Gippsland region, north of Melbourne (stock image)

At one of their illegal trysts at the logging plantation, Beck, who is obese, told the minor he 'hadn't brought her there for the view' and that he 'needed and wanted her'.

He ended up pleading guilty to sexual assaulting and sexual penetrating a child under the age of 16. He also admitted using a carriage service to transmit indecent communications with a child under 16.

Beck must complete a two-year community correction order once he gets out of prison and is a registered sex offender for life.
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Evan Rachel Wood stars as "Old Dolio Dyne" in director Miranda July's "Kajillionaire," a Focus Features release. (Matt Kennedy / Focus Features)

Her name is Old Dolio Dyne. Her parents, Theresa and Robert, named her after a hobo who won the lottery in hopes that he would leave his namesake some of his money. (He did not.)

Such is the world of Kajillionaire, the new film written and directed by Miranda July. Old Dolio (Evan Rachel Wood) has been indoctrinated by her parents  Robert (Richard Jenkins) and Theresa (Debra Winger)  into a life of skimming, pulling off low-level scams, schemes and cons. After the family meets Melanie, a bubbly opticians assistant (brought to buzzing life by Gina Rodriguez), Old Dolio finds her mind and heart opened in ways she never imagined possible  receptive to love, intimacy and a life beyond the cult-like beliefs and restrictions of her family.

The film premiered earlier this year at the Sundance Film Festival, where it was acquired by Focus Features and scheduled for a summer release. That plan was scrapped by the COVID-19 shutdown, but it's now playing in theaters where they are open and  as part of a new release strategy adopted by Universal Pictures  reportedly will hit VOD on Oct. 16.

As audiences discover "Kajillionaire," they'll meet one of the strangest and most original characters to hit the screen in some time. Awkward and introverted, Old Dolio is also startlingly tender, as she awakens to a world beyond the one she has been indoctrinated into. The Times spoke with July and Wood about the steps it took to bring Old Dolio to life.





Casting

As a longtime fan of Julys work as a filmmaker, author and fine artist, Wood was immediately keen on the project and her excitement only grew once she encountered Old Dolio on the page.

We never get to see heroines or leading ladies that look or sound or act like her, said Wood, a three-time nominee for both the Emmys and Golden Globes currently headlining HBOs Westworld. I had never read a script [like this] before and I've been reading scripts since I was 5 years old. So that to me was such a great sign and such a rare thing these days. I was excited that people were still making films like this.

Story continues

July recalled seeing Wood in Todd Haynes 2011 miniseries adaptation of Mildred Pierce for HBO, in which Wood played the bratty daughter to Kate Winslet's long-suffering title character. Though its a very different kind of mother-daughter dynamic than the one in Kajillionaire, July noted something special in Woods performance.

Of course I'd seen her in a lot of things, but purely as a director, I just remember watching that and being like, Wow, what I wouldn't give to have that at my disposal, said July. But I had no idea what she was really like. She's kind of a shapeshifter, and I was pretty honest with her about that when we first met. She's a true actress. I couldn't tell [who she really is]  and I sort of actually stayed like that. She's still pretty mysterious to me, but she did kind of give me these clues, Oh, you don't have to worry about that. There's plenty of Old Dolio here.





Movement and voice

The two began workshopping the character, sometimes role-playing therapy sessions. July would gradually strip away Woods use of language, then gestures  Evan actually has very eloquent hands, said July  until the actress was left only with glances, expressions, guttural noises and occasionally lashing out in rage with her whole body as a means of communication.

For Wood, these exercises had unexpected payoffs once shooting began.

On set she would yell things out to me like, proud lion, and I would know what she meant because we based some of Old Dolios mannerisms  the air about her was a proud lion, said Wood. That was our reference, it was things like that. And right down to how I hold my hands and put my hair behind my ears. I think I practiced on how I would put my hair behind my ears hundreds of times. Miranda is very specific about her vision and that's why her films have their own style and tone.

Together they also worked on a low-register voice for Old Dolio, which is lower than Wood's public speaking voice but in fact closer to her natural voice. (It's better for her singing voice if Wood speaks higher than her natural register.) They also devised a specific method of movement for Old Dolio  particularly how she enters a post office at the beginning of the movie to avoid being detected by security cameras, which has a callback later in the film  that is similar to the choreography of July's performance pieces.

"The voice and the movements of Miranda have this incredible quality to her physicality that reminds me of a modern-day Peter Sellers or Charlie Chaplin," said Wood. "It's those subtle movements that take you slightly out of reality and make you laugh or make you cry. There's this beautiful choreography to it, but it seems very natural."

Writer/director Miranda July of "Kajillionaire," photographed in the L.A. Times Studio at Sundance Film Festival in January in Park City, Utah. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)

July herself starred in the two previous feature films she directed, 2005s Me and You and Everyone We Know and 2011s The Future. Yet she never saw herself in any of the roles in Kajillionaire and certainly not Old Dolio.

Let's just be honest, Evan Rachel Wood, she can do so much more than me as an actress, said July. I could see her more clearly than I would have been able to see myself. Of all the actors, and they were all so good, she was the one who I most felt like when I would give her notes, I barely even have to verbalize them. I sometimes felt like as long as I could think what I want, she'll do it. And it's not that we were so close, it's that she's that locked in, in sync. She's not needing a whole intellectual story to get behind, she's feeling it.





The interloper

When Melanie enters into the tight-knit dynamic between Old Dolio and her parents, it is Robert and Theresa who first take a liking to her, igniting a certain jealous skepticism from their daughter for the outside interloper. Soon Old Dolio finds herself charmed by Melanie as well, and the relationship develops in ways Old Dolio never even conceived of, an affection wholly separate from her parents. Julys story never tries to define or name their relationship, but simply allows the emotions and attraction between two women to take on a life of its own.

What I loved about it is it's never spoken about, and as a someone who identifies as bisexual and as a queer woman, one of the things I loved about the script is [the relationship] is in the movie, but it's not what the movie's about, said Wood. And that to me is the future, and what the future needs to be. We're not making a movie about being gay or we're not making a movie about being a person of color. We're just telling their stories. And so gender doesn't really exist and sexuality doesn't really exist in this world, or certainly in Old Dolios world. And that in itself is the statement.

The origins of the character of Old Dolio came not from a dream but from the haze of being half-awake. One morning as July was just waking up she had a vision of three people  two women with long, straight hair and a man  and instead of going back to sleep she grabbed her phone and started taking notes. Her first photo reference was of a woman with long parted hair. She was trying to fix in her mind the image that would become Old Dolio.

She sat at this crossroads for me, said July, like for my own history, between a long-haired butch woman, which is like the kind of woman that I would be attracted to  like Heath Ledger in Brokeback Mountain if they were a woman, the strong, silent type. Not good at talking about their feelings, but so appealing. And that type of character is not going to be self-aware or politicized or self-knowing, not about her queerness.

Gina Rodriguez, left, as Melanie and Evan Rachel Wood as Old Dolio Dyne in director Miranda July's "Kajillionaire," a Focus Features release. (Matt Kennedy / Focus Features)

The look

Working with costume designer Jennifer Johnson, July and Wood collaborated on Old Dolios clothes. The looks had to mix a certain functionality  at any moment she could reconfigure what she was wearing to assume a different persona as needed for a job  along with an almost incidental sense of style.

Semi-consciously or accidentally, she was radiating something that someone like Melanie could interpret. It's no mistake that it's when Melanie sees her and says, I like your track suit. That's the beginning of Melanie falling for her, there is a code there, said July.

There is a kind of hip-hop by way of Balenciaga. There's a whole world of fashion references that can also make Old Dolio cool. So I was trying to walk several different lines, all while having it feel right to her, without her knowing any of the cultural references. Because then it was also a way to have a queer character without having to make a movie about that.





The perspective

While it may seem to survey an oddball world, there is something deeply personal about the film for July. She is married to 20th Century Women filmmaker Mike Mills, and Kajillionaire is the first feature film July has made since they had a child. The films explorations of what makes a family and what gets handed down from one generation to the next were things that were very much on her mind as she was writing the screenplay, even as she tried to avoid direct connections to her own life.

I'm the kind of writer who if I become too autobiographical, everything just dies. But that said, I'm feeling a lot and have a lot to say. This movie is the first one I've been both a daughter and a mother for as I was writing, said July. And I think when you're only a daughter, no matter how old you are, parenting is like the sky above or God or something  you can only, like, shake your fist at it. It's so complete what was done to you. Whereas when you're on the other side of it, it's like a series of decisions you made during a weird time in your life. A combination of maybe a parenting class and some things you were struggling with.

In Julys idiosyncratic style, Kajillionaire is surreal and even a bit silly, like the pink bubbles Old Dolio and her parents scrape off the walls of the abandoned office space where they live, but there is also something deeply felt and directly emotional about it too. Old Dolio comes to realize there is more to life than just barely getting by.

Living is a big deal. Like, you do want to really be here. Youd feel so robbed if you just skimmed, said July. And, yes, it's all very heightened, but I do relate to that. And I do think we all survive our childhoods  even the good ones  and then start anew, start a totally different life from the one that was described to us.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Hartford HealthCare

Usually, when someone is having an anniversary, the custom is for them to receive gifts, not give them.

But St. Vincents Medical Center in Bridgeport chose to celebrate the one-year anniversary of its acquisition by Hartford HealthCare  which took place Thursday  by giving $50,000 to the Bishop Jean Williams Food Pantry, also in Bridgeport.
SPRINGFIELD  Illinois livestock producers can now apply business recovery funds from the state.

The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) on Thursday announced $5 million will be available for livestock producers and small meat and poultry plants suffering interruptions as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Illinois proud agricultural tradition is built on the hard work and dedication of our farmers, said state Sen. Andy Manar, D-Bunker Hill. They work every day to provide for people across the state, and its our obligation to return the favor in any way possible. Thats why we made this a priority in the state budget.

The new funding opportunity is part of the states Business Interruption Grants program (BIG) which leverages federal CARES Act money to help small businesses statewide offset losses incurred in connection to COVID-19. Online applications are available through Oct. 31 at https://www2.illinois.gov/sites/agr/Animals/Pages/Livestock-Management-Facility-Grants.aspx.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, our department has worked closely with the agriculture industry to understand and respond to the challenges they currently face, said Acting IDOA Director Jerry Costello II of Smithton. These dollars enable farmers continuity of operations while providing our small meat and poultry plants the ability to make necessary improvements to expand animal throughput and capacity.

Financial help will be available through three IDOA programs.

A Swine Depopulation Program covers the costs and expenses of swine producers associated with the depopulation and disposal of livestock due to the disruption of the livestock market caused by the COVID-19 emergency on or after April 15, 2020. Applicants can receive up to $10,000 for losses.

An Agriculture Business Interruption Program covers losses and expenses of livestock producers due to the disruption of the livestock market caused by the COVID-19 emergency from April 15 to May 15. Eligible expenses are costs associated with holding livestock  swine, beef cattle, dairy cattle, lambs, poultry and meat goats  and livestock-related products for an extended period of time. Applicants can receive up to $10,000 for losses.

A Meat and Poultry Capacity Program for businesses with up to 60 employees covers costs for operations and facility improvements needed to decrease or eliminate COVID-19 related slowdowns and mitigate capacity reductions. Applicants can receive up to $25,000.

The agriculture industry is essential to the health and vitality of our Illinois economy, which is why our administration has worked closely with the agriculture industry to connect our hardworking farmers with emergency relief to offset their losses, said DCEO Director, Erin B. Guthrie. Yet we know for many farmers more help is needed. New dedicated BIG funds will help cover COVID-19 costs, preserve jobs, and in turn help to rebuild our Illinois economy.

For more information visit agr.state.il.us or email AGR.Grants@illinois.gov.
A glucometer-like device that can detect the level of antibodies against Covid-19, another that uses magnetic nanoparticles to collect virus fragments or antibodies from a sample within minutes, and a third the size of two stacked laptops that can perform molecular Covid-19 tests without trained manpower have all been developed in three to four months by startups supported under the department of science and technologys CAWACH initiative.

Also Read: Superspreaders led to 60% Covid-19 cases: Study

The three are being sent for validation to the Indian Council of Medical Research to see how they perform against existing tests. The Centre for Augmenting War with Covid-19 Health Crisis (CAWACH) was created in April, with a corpus of Rs 56 crore, for scouting, evaluating, and supporting innovations that can help in the governments fight against the pandemic.

In just three or four months, many of the startups supported by us have developed effective technologies to fight Covid-19 including ventilators, PPE kits and diagnostic kits that are now available in the market. This shows the power of collaboration. Through the CAWACH programme we were able to connect the dots in a timely manner and look at the big picture, said Dr Anita Gupta, head of innovation and entrepreneurship at DST.

Also Read: Covid-19: Data dilemma after third serological survey

One startup, PathShodh has developed an antibody testing device that can not only tell whether a person has antibodies against Covid-19 but also measure the concentration of the antibodies, something currently possible only in large laboratories.

The test uses a small amount of blood that needs to be put on a paper strip just like in a glucometer. The strip then needs to be put in a small mobile phone-sized device that gives a digital reading of whether a person has antibodies against Covid-19 as well as the concentration of the antibodies within a few minutes, said Dr Vinay Kumar, co-founder and director of PathShodh. The kit also detects the level of both IgM (the first antibody produced to fight off a new infection) and IgG (a specific antibody produced about 10 days later). Most antibody strips available in the market test only for the long-lasting IgG antibodies. The mobile phone like machine will also help in maintaining records of the patients that can be linked to their Aadhaar card or even Arogya Setu, the governments contact tracing App.

The machine will cost about Rs 50,000 and the per test cost will be just Rs 450-500, Dr Kumar said.

Another portable device developed by Prantae Solutions OC uses magnetic nanoparticles to separate Covid-19 antibodies from a blood sample or the viral antigen (for current infection) from a swab sample. A reader then uses absorption spectrometry  a method that observes the absorption of radiation by the sample to give results within a few minutes. We are focusing more on the antibody testing that would be needed more and more as people start travelling and going to offices. It will tell them whether they have already had the infection, and currently re-infection is thought to be rare. The device will cost about Rs 20,000 and the per test cost will come to about Rs 300, said Sumona Karjee Mishra, founder director of Prantae Solutions OC.

The Omix AMP test developed by the OmiX research and diagnostic laboratory uses a small portable device the size of two stacked laptops to carry out molecular test just like the gold standard RT PCR ones in small laboratories that might not have the expensive RT PCR machines. The results can be given in 1.5 hours. The test has been designed keeping in mind small neighbourhood laboratories and those in some primary health centres.

The device we have developed eliminates the need for the expensive RT PCR machine, which very few labs across India have. All the reagents needed for the test also come in a dried form inside a test tube in which the extracted RNA and a solution has to be added. For the RT- PCR test, this mix of reagents has to be prepared by a trained person. The reagents needed for RT PCR also have to be transported at -20 degrees C as compared to our format which is stable at 35 degree C, said Sudeshna Adak, founder and CEO of Omix research and diagnostic laboratory. The test is likely to have a sensitivity of over 95% and specificity of over 99%, meaning it can detect 95% of all positive cases and 99% of all negative samples correctly,Adak said.

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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
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Patna, Oct 1 : Over 150 members of Rashtriya Lok Samata Party (RLSP) burnt the effigy of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath here to protest against the Hathras gangrape and murder on Thursday.

RLSP leaders said that Yogi should resign immediately.

Malti Kushwaha, the general secretary of RLSP said that Yogi Adityanath government and its police has crossed all limits pertain to this horrifying gangrape and murder case.

"I want to ask Yogi Adityanath about who has given direction to cremate the dead body of the victim at night and without the presence of her kin. Why is he not taking responsibility of this brutal act by the perpetrators followed by the most inhumane act of Hathras police and entire district administration that challenges the tradition and rituals of Hindu community?" Kushwaha said.

"Yogi Adityanath and Narendra Modi claim to be Hindu. Is it their Hindu culture to cremate the body in the night? They always play Hindu card in every election to retain their posts and form the government. This is their real face and of the entire BJP leadership," Kushwaha said.

Bhola Sharma, the spokesperson of RLSP said: "Yogi Adityanath government has adopted a callous approach in this case since day one. They have not given medical treatment in the beginning. They have repeatedly made mistakes to hide their wrongdoings." "This incident has shattered us. We have never experienced any such incident in our entire life that challenges our tradition and rituals. It is extremely shameful," Sharma said.

Earlier, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav blamed Yogi Adityanath through his tweet and said that the horrifying gangrape case has shocked the entire government, police force, administration and judiciary of the country.

"Through this incident, BJP's anti-Dalit and anti-women character has emerged again," he said in a tweet.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has warned that the damage being done to the Middle East aviation industry and on economies by the shutdown of air traffic owing to the Covid-19 pandemic had deepened.

According to new data published today by the Air Transport Action Group of which IATA is a member:

1.7 million Middle East jobs will be lost in aviation and industries supported by aviation in 2020. This is nearly half of the regions 3.3 million aviation-related employment.

323,000 jobs will be lost in aviation alone in 2020. This is about 46% of the regions 595,000 aviation related jobs.

GDP supported by aviation in the region will fall by up to $105 billion. This is 49% below pre COVID-19 levels.

"This latest research highlights the urgency of restarting aviation in the Middle East. Normally aviation contributes $213 billion to the regions GDP. Closing borders has reduced this to $108 billion. That loss has severe consequences, not least of which is the loss of 1.7 million jobs," stated Muhammad Albakri, IATAs Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East.

Governments in the Middle East must protect their citizens from COVID-19 while also protecting their livelihoods, he added.

To minimize the impact on jobs and the broader Middle East economy, an accelerated recovery of air transport across the region is paramount. This can be achieved through Covid-19 testing as an alternative to restrictive quarantine measures.

According to IATA, 11 countries in the Middle East have opened their borders to regional and international air travel. However, in nine of these countries, passengers are still subject to a mandatory quarantine.

"This effectively stops people from travelling. IATA is calling for the systematic testing of passengers before departure. This will enable governments to safely open borders without quarantine and better support recovery efforts," stated Albakri.

Quarantine measures are crippling the industrys recovery and hampering its ability to support social and economic development. Testing for Covid-19 will enable the Middle East and the world to safely re-connect and recover, he added.-TradeArabia News Service
Frank Luntz, the famed right-wing political consultant, grew to prominence because of his knack for language. Using the rights words when interacting with voters can make all the difference in who they cast their ballot for. However, an undecided voter in one of Luntzs focus groups may have outdone even the master following the first Presidential debate this week. When asked to describe Donald Trump in a single word following the debate, a Pennsylvania voter landed on crackhead.

Yes, crackhead. To describe the sitting President of the United States.

Now, before you doth protest too much, keep in mind that Frank Luntz is no tie-dyed hippie. Hes a rock-ribbed right-winger and has been for years. Second, it was an open-ended question. Luntz did not prompt any of those undecided voters to describe Trump as a crackhead or un-American (as another voter did). Thankfully, I was out door-knocking and missed all but the last half-hour of the debate. Thats all I needed to see. I will not be watching the next two debates (if they take place) and neither should you. In fact, I challenge all of you to take that three hours of time and get involved with a campaign. It will do your soul, and our political process, some much-needed good.

Ive talked about the importance of getting involved before, which is why I want to dig a little deeper and give you some first-hand insight. The two best ways to get people out to vote  and specifically to get them to vote for your candidate  is by calling people on the phone and knocking on their doors.

As technologically advanced as we are in 2020, those old-school methods are still the most effective. Unfortunately, they are also the two hardest things to get volunteers for. The reasons for this are intuitive: many people dont like talking to strangers and they are afraid of the reactions they will receive from voters.

I get it.

But, having engaged directly with literally thousands of voters all over this state, Im in a position to demystify the process and hopefully convince you to give it a shot.

For starters, engaging with voters is not nearly as scary as you may think. Idahoans are generally nice people. Even if they vehemently disagree with your politics or the candidate youre stumping for, it is rare that things get confrontational. Last year I stood outside a polling place collecting signatures for an education initiative not 20 feet from the head of the Second Amendment Alliance. As a Democrat, you might think this was a recipe for disaster. It wasnt. On a personal level we got along fine all day. He even snapped a picture of me and a fellow volunteer showing off signature sheets for an initiative he definitely opposed. So, if youre someone who fears confrontation, dont. Its not as bad as you may expect.

Second, engaging with voters can be as illuminating as it is fun. During my travels, Ive actually talked with a black Trump voter. In Idaho. He was very nice (as Idahoans tend to be) and he signed the initiative I was carrying. A few weeks later, I encountered a voter who literally had tin foil on his hat. Granted, its possible it was duct tape that reflected the glare from his porch light, but still, tin foil hat. He also signed the initiative and I love telling that story to this day.

Third, its educational. You would be surprised to learn how many people dont know the difference between Rep. Laurie Lickleys position (Idaho State House of Representatives) and Rep. Mike Simpsons (U.S. House of Representatives). Civic education is wanting in this country like never before. Engaging with voters instead of wasting your time on Twitter can actually serve a public good at the most basic level.

Finally, do it for yourself. Not to sound like some self-help book, but personal growth is a lifetime endeavor for all of us. For instance, I have an irrational fear of heights. Seriously, step-ladders give me trouble. Thats why I decided to climb the highest mountains in Idaho and Utah a few years back. It was more a character exercise than adventure, and Im still here. If the thought of talking to strangers over the phone or on their front porch stresses you out, then attack it head-on. Like I said, its not nearly as scary as you think, and youll be better off from trying it.

If you want to watch crackheads on television, I suggest streaming old re-runs of COPS. You will get much more satisfaction, and joy, from engaging with your fellow Idahoans than you will from watching the next two Presidential debates.

Jeremy J. Gugino is a Democratic communications volunteer.

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TORONTO, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ - Golden Star Resources Ltd. (NYSE American: GSS) (TSX: GSC) GSE: GSR) ("Golden Star" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has completed the sale of its 90% interest in the Bogoso-Prestea Gold Mine ("Bogoso-Prestea") in Ghana to Future Global Resources Limited ("FGR"). All references herein to "$" are to United States dollars.

Highlights

Golden Star has completed the sale of Bogoso-Prestea to FGR

The Bogoso-Prestea subsidiaries have now been transferred to FGR

The initial $5 million cash consideration due at closing has been deferred by up to six months to March 30, 2021 pending finalization of FGR's reclamation bonding process, as described below.

The subsequent staged payments, totaling $25 million , and contingent payments of $20 to $40 million ensure that FGR is able to focus its investment capacity on the business whilst providing Golden Star with exposure to Bogoso-Prestea's long-term growth potential

The sale strengthens Golden Star's balance sheet and allows the Company to accelerate the growth and development of the large resource base at the Wassa mine, and increase exploration activities in the wider Wassa-HBB project area

Andrew Wray, President and Chief Executive Officer of Golden Star, commented:

"We are pleased to complete the previously announced sale of Bogoso-Prestea. This transaction is transformational for Golden Star's balance sheet and allows us to focus fully on further developing Wassa and realizing its potential. We are now able to concentrate our financial and technical resources on accelerating the delivery of value from Wassa as it continues to develop into a large-scale, long-life and cash generative underground mine. We now look forward to completing a Preliminary Economic Assessment on the development options for the ore body by the end of the year. In doing so we can subsequently provide the market with greater clarity around the potential path and timing for future growth at the asset.

The sale strengthens our balance sheet by providing a cash inflow of $30 million by 2023 and removing negative working capital and liabilities from our balance sheet. Given the resulting improvement in the financial position of the Company, we expect to now be able to accelerate our investment at Wassa and within our existing exploration pipeline and look for other opportunities to further expand our business.

Bogoso-Prestea will also benefit from having an owner solely focused on delivering the turnaround of the underground operation and assessing the significant potential of the sulfide resources. As a result, we see this transaction as positive for both FGR and Golden Star, our respective employees, Ghana, the host communities and all of our other stakeholders."

Financial terms

Following further commercial discussions, Golden Star and FGR agreed to amend the commercial terms of the sale of Bogoso-Prestea. The consideration remains unchanged with FGR taking on all the assets and liabilities of the Bogoso-Prestea subsidiaries at closing. The cash consideration is now all deferred and will be paid as follows:

$5 million of cash is payable on the earlier of (i) the date at which FGR puts in place a new reclamation bond with the Environmental Protection Agency, or (ii) March 30, 2021 ;

of cash is payable on the earlier of (i) the date at which FGR puts in place a new reclamation bond with the Environmental Protection Agency, or (ii) ; $10 million of cash is payable on July 31, 2021 ; and

of cash is payable on ; and $15 million of cash is payable on July 31, 2023 .

In addition to the consideration payable at closing and the deferred payments, a contingent payment of up to $40 million conditional upon the occurrence of the milestones described hereinafter in respect of the development of the Bogoso Sulfide Project (the "Contingent Payment") may become payable by FGR to Golden Star. The trigger point for the Contingent Payment is either (i) FGR's formal decision to proceed ("Decision to Proceed") with the Bogoso Sulfide Project, or (ii) the extraction of an aggregate of 5% of the sulfide resources as stated at the end of 2019, being 1.76 million ounces of measured and indicated resources and 0.07 million ounces of inferred resource. The quantum of the Contingent Payment is determined by reference to the average spot gold price for the 90 day period preceding the date of the Decision to Proceed:

$20 million , if the average spot gold price is less than or equal to $1,400 /oz;

, if the average spot gold price is less than or equal to /oz; $30 million , if the average spot gold price is greater than $1,400 /oz but less than or equal to $1,700 /oz; or

, if the average spot gold price is greater than /oz but less than or equal to /oz; or $40 million , if the average spot gold price is greater than $1,700 /oz

, if the average spot gold price is greater than /oz The Contingent Payment is payable in two tranches:

50% at the time of (i) the Decision to Proceed, or (ii) declaration that 5% of the sulfide mineral resources have been extracted; and

50% at the time of the first anniversary of (i) achieving commercial production following the Decision to Proceed, or (ii) the first anniversary of the declaration that 5% of the sulfide mineral resources have been extracted.

Restructuring of RGLD Gold AG streaming agreement

Caystar Finance Co. (a wholly-owned subsidiary of Golden Star) and RGLD Gold AG (an affiliate of Royal Gold, Inc.) have restructured the streaming agreement covering the Wassa mine and Bogoso-Prestea. The stream has been restructured to separate Bogoso-Prestea from the current arrangement. Wassa now retains the remaining Tier One streaming obligation, which relates to the delivery of gold at a rate of 10.5% of production for a 20% delivery payment. As at June 30, 2020, there were c.129.5koz Tier One ounces remaining to deliver. Following the delivery of the remaining Tier One obligation, the streaming obligation at Wassa will transition into the Tier Two structure, which delivers 5.5% of gold production for a 30% delivery payment.

2020 production and capital expenditure guidance

The Company's 2020 production and cost guidance will be updated for the sale of Bogoso-Prestea as part of the reporting of the Q3 2020 results on October 28, 2020.

About FGR

Future Global Resources ("FGR") was established by its shareholders in 2020 to build a globally diversified mining business that invests in, develops, and operates long-life mineral resources, to stimulate economic development. Its initial focus is on Africa, leveraging the credentials of its board, executive and shareholders on the African continent. FGR is committed to the principles of community and environmental sustainability. Its principal shareholder is UK based Blue International Holdings Limited, which is also the largest investor in Joule Africa Limited, a developer, owner and operator of renewable energy projects in Sub-Saharan Africa.

About Bogoso-Prestea

The Bogoso-Prestea operations are located in south-western Ghana, approximately 40km from the Wassa gold mine. Recently, production was delivered from the Bogoso-Prestea open pits and the Prestea underground gold mine. In the second half of 2018, Prestea became an underground-focused operation and the open pit operations ceased production. The Bogoso refractory open pit operation was closed in 2015; it hosts 1.76 million ounces of measured and indicated mineral resources and 0.07 million ounces of inferred resource.

Advisors

Golden Star's financial advisor is Bacchus Capital Advisers and its Canadian legal advisor is Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP. FGR's legal advisor is White & Case LLP.

Company Profile:

Golden Star is an established gold mining company that owns and operates the Wassa underground mine in Ghana, West Africa. Listed on the NYSE American, the Toronto Stock Exchange and the Ghanaian Stock Exchange, Golden Star is focused on delivering strong margins and free cash flow from the Wassa mine. As the winner of the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada 2018 Environmental and Social Responsibility Award, Golden Star remains committed to leaving a positive and sustainable legacy in its areas of operation.

Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Information

Some statements contained in this news release are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities laws and include but are not limited to, statements and information regarding gold production guidance; date at which FGR puts in place a new reclamation bond with the Environmental Protection Agency; the receipt by Golden Star of the Contingent Payment and the potential amount thereof and other amounts to be received pursuant to the Transaction; the benefits to be received by Golden Star from the sale of Bogoso-Prestea, including the strengthening of its balance sheet, financial position, acceleration of the Company's investment at Wassa and within the Company's existing exploration pipeline, and the ability of Golden Star to diversify and grow its business; the benefits to be realized by stakeholders from the Transaction; FGR's ability to deliver the turnaround of the Prestea underground operation and make additional discoveries; FGR's ability to deliver the Bogoso Sulfide Project. Generally, forward-looking information and statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes" or variations of such words and phrases (including negative or grammatical variations) or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved" or the negative connotation thereof. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements and information are inherently uncertain and involve risks, assumptions and uncertainties that could cause facts to differ materially. Such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding present and future business strategies and the environment in which Golden Star will operate in the future, including the price of gold, anticipated costs and ability to achieve goals. Forward-looking information and statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Golden Star to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information and statements, including but not limited to: gold price volatility; discrepancies between actual and estimated production; mineral reserves and resources and metallurgical recoveries; the ability to complete the sale transaction and realize the anticipated benefits therefrom; the ability to obtain all necessary consents and approvals for the sale transaction; mining operational and development risks; liquidity risks; suppliers suspending or denying delivery of products or services; regulatory restrictions (including environmental regulatory restrictions and liability); actions by governmental authorities; the speculative nature of gold exploration; ore type; the global economic climate; share price volatility; foreign exchange rate fluctuations; risks related to streaming agreements and joint venture operations; the availability of capital on reasonable terms or at all; risks related to international operations, including economic and political instability in foreign jurisdictions in which Golden Star operates; risks related to current global financial conditions including financial and other risks resulting from the impact of the COVID-19 global pandemic; actual results of current exploration activities; environmental risks; future prices of gold; possible variations in mineral reserves and mineral resources, grade or recovery rates; mine development and operating risks; an inability to obtain power for operations on favourable terms or at all; mining plant or equipment breakdowns or failures; an inability to obtain products or services for operations or mine development from vendors and suppliers on reasonable terms, including pricing, or at all; public health pandemics such as COVID-19, including risks associated with reliance on suppliers, the cost, scheduling and timing of gold shipments, uncertainties relating to its ultimate spread, severity and duration, and related adverse effects on the global economy and financial markets; accidents, labor disputes and other risks of the mining industry; delays in obtaining governmental approvals or financing or in the completion of development or construction activities; litigation risks; and risks related to indebtedness and the service of such indebtedness. Although Golden Star has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information and statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that future developments affecting the Company will be those anticipated by management. Please refer to the discussion of these and other factors in Management's Discussion and Analysis of financial conditions and results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2019 and in our annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2019 as filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The forecasts contained in this press release constitute management's current estimates, as of the date of this press release, with respect to the matters covered thereby. We expect that these estimates will change as new information is received. While we may elect to update these estimates at any time, we do not undertake any estimate at any particular time or in response to any particular event.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

In this news release, we use the terms "cash operating cost per ounce".

"Cash operating cost" for a period is equal to "cost of sales excluding depreciation and amortization" for the period less royalties, the cash component of metals inventory net realizable value adjustments, materials and supplies write-off and severance charges and "cash operating cost per ounce" is that amount divided by the number of ounces of gold sold (excluding pre-commercial production ounces sold) during the period.

We use "cash operating cost per ounce" as a key operating metric. We monitor this measure monthly, comparing each month's values to prior periods' values to detect trends that may indicate increases or decreases in operating efficiencies. We provide this measure to investors to allow them to also monitor operational efficiencies of the Company's mines. We calculate this measure for both individual operating units and on a consolidated basis. Since cash operating costs do not incorporate revenues, changes in working capital or non-operating cash costs, they are not necessarily indicative of operating profit or cash flow from operations as determined under IFRS. Changes in numerous factors including, but not limited to, mining rates, milling rates, ore grade, gold recovery, costs of labour, consumables and mine site general and administrative activities can cause these measures to increase or decrease. We believe that these measures are similar to the measures of other gold mining companies but may not be comparable to similarly titled measures in every instance.

For additional information regarding the Non-GAAP financial measures used by the Company, please refer to the heading "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" in the Company's Management Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2019, which are available at www.sedar.com

Technical Information

Additional technical information regarding Bogoso-Prestea is available in the technical report for the property titled "NI 43-101 Technical Report on Resources and Reserves, Golden Star Resources, Bogoso/Prestea Gold Mine, Ghana" effective date December 31, 2017, available at www.sedar.com.

SOURCE Golden Star Resources Ltd.

Related Links

www.gsr.com


The Social democratic Party (PSD) Chairman Marcel Ciolacu announced on Thursday that he will file a complaint with the General Prosecutor's Office, referring especially to the situation in Sector 1, appreciating that "there are dozens of violations" of the electoral legislation, according to Agerpres.

"Anyway, it is curious. Where the PNL [National Liberal Party] won, the recount is accepted, where the PSD submits a request, it is not accepted. (...)," Ciolacu declared at the PSD headquarters.

Asked if, procedurally, he will go to a Prosecutor's Office with a complaint, Ciolacu said: "Definitely we will file a complaint to the General Prosecutor's Office".

He mentioned that he has a meeting with representatives of the PSD leadership and with lawyers, in which a series of decisions will be made.

Mayor Dan Tudorache announced on Thursday that he would ask the Central Electoral Bureau (BEC) to resume local elections in Sector 1 on the grounds of fraud, claiming that a bag of votes was removed from the Electoral Bureau's storage room, although this is not allowed.

He said on Wednesday, after the BEC rejected his request to cancel the elections in this administrative area, that he was waiting for the decision of the Sector Electoral Bureau on his request to recount the votes. Subsequently, a television station broadcast images in which several people would temper with the ballot sacks in a room of the Electoral Bureau of Sector 1.
Motion by councillor Glyn Daniels on fee is being debated by Gwynedd council

A council has debated charging visitors 'a considerable fee' to scale Wales' highest peak amid fears of damage from 'over tourism'.

A motion by councillor Glyn Daniels, who represents the constituency Diffwys a Maenofferen, to charge tourists visiting Snowdonia was debated by Gwynedd council today.

It follows holidaymakers swarming to the beauty spot in Snowdonia National Park, Wales, in July and August this year as lockdown restrictions were eased.

An unusually large number of hill walkers pictured making their way to the summit of Snowdon in Wales in September 2013, as the council considers charging visitors a 'considerable fee'

Walkers were seen stood crammed in queues as they neared the top of the site last month, in an effort to capture a picture of themselves at the peak.

The scenes came just hours after it was revealed that 60 per cent of the Welsh population will be put under lockdown after three more council areas were added to the Government's list.

Long queues of climbers lining up to reach Snowdon's summit were also pictured on Bank Holiday weekend last year, with locals blaming the Welsh Government for the overcrowding by claiming 'heavy promotion' brought a surge in tourists.

Mr Daniels' motion reads: 'I propose that Gwynedd Council, in collaboration with Snowdonia National Park, urgently investigates the possibility of charging tourists who visit parts of the Park, particularly on and around Snowdon itself.

'I believe this would be advantageous in more than one way.'

It suggests charging a 'considerable fee' for visiting the summit, adding that it could 'boost the coffers of Gwynedd Council and the Park at a time when we are facing financial uncertainty owing to the side-effects of Covid 19'.

The motion concludes: 'Consequently, there is room to believe that such steps could contribute to reducing the serious problems of excess cars causing traffic jams and hazards on the region's roads.'

However, the national park said that the law would need to be changed in order to enforce the fee.

On a clear day at Snowdon's summit (pictured above), hikers can enjoy expansive views of Britain. It takes around six to eight hours to get to the top and back

A spokesperson told NorthWalesLive: 'Currently, it would not be legal or enforceable to charge a toll on Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) due to the Countryside and Right of Way Act which allows access for all to certain areas of the countryside,' said a spokesperson.

'In addition, Welsh national parks do not have local tax raising powers. Our work is funded by Welsh Government  for the three national parks of Wales it costs each Welsh citizen 4 per year.'

First Minister Mark Drakeford added: 'The tourism industry is extremely important to north Wales, and the solution to the problems is dependent on bringing people together around the table to think about how we can give extremely good experiences to people who come to us, that are part of the local economy, and at the same time protect the things that people come to Wales to see and enjoy.'

On a clear day at Snowdon's summit, hikers can enjoy expansive views of Britain. It takes around six to eight hours to get to the top and back.

There are six recommended paths, with the nine-mile Llanberis Path the most popular among those wanting to reach the summit for the first time.

Though the path is the longest route, it provides a gradual climb up to the mountain.
A doctor who delivered a husband and wife 29 years ago has now delivered their newborn baby.

Dr. James Stands, an OB/GYN at Lexington Medical Center in West Columbia, South Carolina, delivered Jenna Hazen on Jan. 14, 1991, then Max Hazen on Aug. 9 that same year.

On Sept. 2, 2020, Stands delivered the couple's son, Elliott Hazen, who arrived weighing 9 pounds, 2 ounces.

PHOTO: Dr. James Stands, an OB/GYN at Lexington Medical Center in West Columbia, South Carolina, delivered mom Jenna Hazen on Jan. 14, 1991, dad Max Hazen on Aug. 9, 1991 and then the couple's son, Elliott Hazen, on Sept. 2, 2020. (Jenna Hazen)

More: Couple wears original wedding attire in 60th anniversary photos

"I thought it was something cool that he was going to be able to deliver all three of us," Jenna, a mom of two from Winnsboro, South Carolina, told "Good Morning America." "I knew it was unique, but [also] an interesting story to tell my little boy."

Jenna has been a patient of Stands' since 2013. She and her mother-in-law realized that Stands delivered both her and Max.

PHOTO: Big brother Hampton Hazen poses with his baby brother, Elliott Hazen, born Sept. 2, 2020 in Lexington County, South Carolina. (Jenna Hazen)

More: Photo of 1st all-female crew in Florida fire department's 57-year history goes viral

"Hes phenomenal," Jenna said of Stands. "He made everything so relaxing. I had a miscarriage previous to Elliott and he prayed with mehe's just an awesome doctor."

PHOTO: Max and Jenna Hazen pose with Dr. James Stands, of Lexington Medical Center in South Carolina. Stands delivered Jenna Hazen on Jan. 14, 1991, then Max Hazen on Aug. 9 that same year. On Sept. 2, 2020 Stands delivered he couple's newborn son. (Jenna Hazen)

Lexington Medical Center confirmed to "GMA" that Stands delivered mom, dad and baby.

Jenna said Stands did not deliver Elliott's big brother, Hampton.

Doctor delivers mom, dad and then their newborn originally appeared on goodmorningamerica.com
OMalley Dillon had previously said the campaign was not knocking doors because it wasnt needed and it was no longer the gold standard, as the campaign focused on Trumps coronavirus response. Last month, the Biden campaign attacked Trump and his team for showing up on voters doorsteps and said it had knocked on zero doors because it was not safe and prospective voters did not want visitors.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 1)  Actor Xian Lim now sits in the director's chair to helm the country's first puppetry film series entitled MALA-Ibong Adarna, a reimagined version of the famous Filipino literary classic.

Lim shared with CNN Philippines' Rico Hizon that it was a big challenge to do the project because of the puppets' limitations in movements.

"I am very lucky to be working with the top ventriloquists in the Philippines," said Lim, who also recently launched his first solo art exhibit.

MALA, which means Movies Adopted from the Literary Arts, is a co-production with the Cultural Center of the Philippines. It seeks to educate the current young generation on beloved Filipino literary classics. It is also made in honor of National Artist for Theater Amelia Lapena-Bonifacio, known for her theatrical works using puppets.

The screen heartthrob bared that the film's cast and crew is on a shooting 'bubble' and the scenes are captured by film cameras.

"It is very exciting times because we can reach out to more kids in the form of puppetry," Lim said. "It is more engaging and it is more exciting telling a story of a literary classic."

The actor hopes more children will be introduced to puppetry, especially now that they are isolated at homes and frequently use technological devices, He added that each act in the series is infused with music and poetry.

Renowned ventriloquist Ronaldo Carcamo is the lead screenplay writer for the project. Puppet designer Aina Ramolete and art director Kaye Banaag are in charge of the production design. Jem Florendo acts as music composer and Miguel Hernandez serves as sound designer.

The MALA puppetry series will be streamed on the CCP Office of the President's Facebook page this month. It will also have a version of the Francisco Balagtas classic Florante at Laura, which will be announced soon.
The Lucknow Bench of the Allahabad High Court on Thursday summoned top government and police officers of Uttar Pradesh to assess their handling of the Hathras gang-rape case. In an 11-page order that relied on reportage of the 19-year-olds cremation past midnight, the high court said it is taking suo moto cognisance of the case since the alleged incidents which took place after the death of the victim on 29 September leading up to her creation have shocked our conscience.

Justices Jaspreet Singh and Rajan Roy also summoned the family members of the Dalit woman who was allegedly gang-raped on the night of September 14 and succumbed to the injuries later, on September 29 in Delhi. The judges ordered the state to ensure that no coercion, influence or pressure is exerted upon the family members of the deceased in any manner, by anyone.

Also Read: Hathras gang-rape case: BJP lawmaker slams UP cops over 2.30am cremation, says it violates religious beliefs

The court has asked the state government to respond by October 12 when it will hear the officials and the womans family.

The judges referred to several media reports that echoed the familys allegations that the UP police had hurriedly completed the cremation of the young woman, allegedly without the consent of her family to underline that a dead person must be respected by the state.

Also Read: Media will go, well still be here: Top official on visit to Hathras family

The State must respect a dead person by allowing the body of the person to be treated with dignity and unless it is required for the purposes of establishing a crime to ascertain the cause of death and be subjected to postmortem or for any scientific investigation, medical education or to save the life of another person in accordance with law, the preservation of the dead body and disposal in accordance with human dignity, it observed.

We are inclined to examine as to whether there has been gross violation of the fundamental rights of the deceased victim and the family members of the victim; whether the State Authorities have acted oppressively high handedly and illegally to violate such rights, the court said.

If the reports are true, then it will be a case of gross violation of basic human and fundamental rights, the court noted.

Death must be so beautiful...To forget time, to forget life, to be at peace, the court said recalling Oscar wilde. But in this case, the victim was treated with extreme brutality by the perpetrators of the crime and what is alleged to have happened thereafter, if true, amount to perpetuating the misery of the family and rubbing salt in their wounds, it said.

After the incident led to a nationwide outrage, Uttar Pradesh assistant director general (law and order) Prashant Kumar denied that the body was cremated without the familys consent. They were present during the funeral. The body was putrefying. The victim died yesterday in Delhi. After the post-mortem, the funeral was conducted with the consent of the family members, Kumar said on Wednesday.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is flanked by Minister of Infrastructure and Communities Catherine McKenna (L), and Chair of the Board of the Canada Infrastructure Bank Michael Sabia, during a press conference in Ottawa on Oct. 1, 2020. (Sean Kilpatrick/The Canadian Press)

Trudeau Announces $10 Billion Infrastructure Growth Plan, With Aim to Create 60,000 Jobs

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced $10 billion in infrastructure spending in such areas as clean energy, broadband, and agriculture that he says will create 60,000 jobs and boost the economy.

Trudeau announced the three-year Canada Infrastructure Bank plan at a press conference on Thursday along with Infrastructure Minister Catherine McKenna and Michael Sabia, who was appointed chair of the banks board in April.

With smart, targeted investments, we can get people back on the job, grow the economy while building a healthy, sustainable future for everyone, Trudeau said.

He said the money will be invested in projects ranging from clean power, zero-emissions buses, and home retrofits, to broadband and irrigation infrastructure for farmers.

The funding will go toward the following five initiatives:

$2.5 billion for clean power to support renewable generation and storage and to transmit clean electricity between provinces, territories, and regions, including to northern and indigenous communities.

$2 billion to connect approximately 750,000 homes and small businesses to broadband in underserved communities.

$2 billion to invest in large-scale building retrofits to increase energy efficiency.

$1.5 billion for agriculture irrigation projects to help the agriculture sector enhance production, strengthen Canadas food security, and expand export opportunities.

$1.5 billion to accelerate the adoption of zero-emission buses and charging infrastructure.

Asked whether the growth plan includes the hospitality and tourism sectors that were hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, Sabia said that the top priority is implementing the five initiatives outlined in the plan. But he added that the bank will also look at a variety of opportunities.

The infrastructure bank was created by the Liberals in 2017 with a $35 billion budget to spend over 10 years with the goal to attract private sector and large institutional investors, to pay for what the government called transformational infrastructure projects.

However, the bank has been criticized for the relatively few investments it has made thus far, in just nine projects. During last falls federal election campaign, both the Conservatives and the NDP promised to abolish the bank if elected.

Conservative Leader Erin OToole reiterated that promise on Thursday, calling the Liberals plan just another re-announcement.

Construction workers in New Brunswick, commuters in Montreal, and agricultural workers in the Prairies dont need more Liberal hashtags and photo ops, he said in a statement.

They need an actual plan to build roads, bridges, and railways.

The Liberals say the investment plan is part of the governments promise in last weeks throne speech to create one million jobs and revive an economy ravaged by the COVID-19 pandemic. It is also intended to help the government meet its goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Sabia said projects that get the banks backing would require them to contribute to economic growth, draw in private capital to turn $1 of public funding into $2 or $3 of spending, and help the bank earn back what it pays out.

He said the bank has already started the work needed to identify and review proposed and existing projects.

The analyses have been done because we know where these projects are, he said. So this plan, as I said, is very real, very concrete, bottom-up build and we have a lot of confidence in it.

New Democrat infrastructure critic Taylor Bachrach said the infrastructure bank has proven to be the wrong tool for getting projects built.

The public-private approach the Liberals continue to push consistently ends up costing Canadians more over the long term, while private investors can make millions, he said.

Bloc Quebecois critic Xavier Barsalou-Duval said in a statement that provinces and cities need direct and unconditional federal funding to pay for projects. Instead, he said, the Trudeau Liberals are offering more loans.

Last June, NDP MP Guy Caron told The Tyee that the bank is a boondoggle waiting to happen.

The government seems to be trying to convince us there wont be any cost for the public in this, which is false because those private investors are not going to invest simply because they want to be generous, Caron said. They will want their return.

With files from The Canadian Press. Scott Goulett contributed to this report.
Ninety percent of patients tracked in the AGA FMT National Registry were cured of C. difficile infection with few serious side effects.

Bethesda, MD (Oct. 1, 2020) -- Today, the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) released the first results from the NIH-funded AGA Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT) National Registry, the largest real-world study on the safety and effectiveness of FMT. Published in Gastroenterology, the registry reported that FMT led to a cure of Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile) infection in 90% of patients across 20 North American FMT practice sites. Few serious side effects were reported.

"While the value of fecal microbiota transplantation for treating recurrent C. difficile infection is clear from research studies, the potential long-term consequences of altering a patient's gut microbiota are not fully known," says Dr. Colleen R. Kelly, Associate Professor of Medicine at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island and co-principal investigator of the AGA FMT National Registry. "Releasing the initial results of the AGA FMT National Registry is an important step toward understanding the true risk and benefits of microbiota therapeutics in a real-world setting."

This new report details effectiveness and safety outcomes from the first 259 patients enrolled in the registry between December 2017 and September 2019. Almost all participants received FMT using an unknown donor from stool banks. The most common method of FMT delivery was colonoscopy followed by upper endoscopy. Of the 222 participants who returned for the 1-month follow-up, 200 participants (90%) had their C. difficile infection cured with 197 of those requiring only a single FMT. Infections were reported in 11 participants, but only two were thought to be possibly related to the procedure. FMT response was deemed durable, with recurrence of C. difficile infection in the six months after successful FMT occurring in only 4% of participants. This data includes patients with co-morbidities, such as inflammatory bowel disease and immunocompromised status, who are typically excluded from FMT clinical trials.

"These initial results show a high success rate of FMT in the real-world setting. We'll continue to track these patients for 10 years to assess long-term safety, which will be critical to determining the full safety profile of FMT," added Dr. Kelly.

WHAT IS FECAL MICROBIOTA TRANSPLANTATION?

Fecal microbiota transplant, or FMT, is a medical procedure in which the stool from a healthy person is prepared and then put into the intestine of a sick patient. FMT is most commonly used to treat Clostridioides difficile infection, if antibiotics have not been able to get rid of the infection. Recurrent C. difficile infection is common and increasing within the U.S. It is associated with significant morbidity and mortality and frequent failure of standard medical treatments, making FMT a potentially life-saving procedure. Learn more in the AGA GI Patient Center.

###

ABOUT THE AGA FMT NATIONAL REGISTRY

Established in 2016, the FMT National Registry - funded by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) of the National Institutes of Health (Award Number R24AI118629) and administered by the AGA Center for Gut Microbiome Research and Education - assesses short- and long-term patient outcomes associated with FMT with a goal of tracking over 4,000 patients over 10 years. As of August 2020, 449 participants have enrolled in the registry. Our registry is designed to provide long-term assessment for up to 10 years to answer the most pressing safety question regarding FMT: whether FMT increases the risk of developing other medical conditions in the years after it is performed. Read more about the AGA Fecal Microbiota Transplantation National Registry. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03325855

GUT MICROBIOME EXPERTS

AGA has recruited leading experts in the gut microbiome and digestive health to serve as the scientific advisory board for the AGA Center for Gut Microbiome Research & Education. Email media@gastro.org to speak with our experts about FMT or other microbiome topics.

ABOUT AGA INSTITUTE

The American Gastroenterological Association is the trusted voice of the GI community. Founded in 1897, the AGA has grown to more than 16,000 members from around the globe who are involved in all aspects of the science, practice and advancement of gastroenterology. The AGA Institute administers the practice, research and educational programs of the organization. http://www.gastro.org.

ABOUT GASTROENTEROLOGY

Gastroenterology, the official journal of the AGA Institute, is the most prominent scientific journal in the specialty and is in the top 1 percent of indexed medical journals internationally. The journal publishes clinical and basic science studies of all aspects of the digestive system, including the liver and pancreas, as well as nutrition. The journal is abstracted and indexed in Biological Abstracts, Current Awareness in Biological Sciences, Chemical Abstracts, Current Contents, Excerpta Medica, Index Medicus, Nutrition Abstracts and Science Citation Index.

For more information, visit http://www.gastrojournal.org.
A federal appellate court all but nixed the option of voting for one party with a single click on Election Day with a second stay of a previous ruling Wednesday.

The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals panel had already issued an administrative stay earlier this week to a Laredo district judges ruling that would have reinstated the straight-ticket voting practice.

The stay issued Wednesday will last until the end of the appeals process. The court hinted at its inclination to leave the straight-ticket ban in place in its opinion, saying that in doing so it was observing the Supreme Courts repeated emphasis that courts should not alter election rules on the eve of an election.

In staying a preliminary injunction that would change election laws eighteen days before early voting begins, we recognize the value of preserving the status quo in a voting case on the eve of an election, the unsigned opinion read.

The judges on the panel Wednesday were Edith Brown Clement, Jennifer Walker Elrod and Catharina Haynes. All three were appointed by President George W. Bush, and the court is widely considered one of the most conservative in the nation.

Attorney General Ken Paxton, whose office represents state agencies, applauded the decision, calling the lower courts previous ruling disruptive and lawless.

The 2020 general election is already underway and election officials across the state have taken the necessary precautions to ensure safe voting, Paxton said in a statement. Last-minute changes to our voting process would do nothing but stir chaos.  I will not stand by when the integrity of our election process is threatened.

Wednesdays stay came after a U.S. District Judge in Laredo on Friday had ruled that a 2017 law banning one-punch voting was unconstitutional, largely because it would increase wait time at the polls during the pandemic.

The plaintiffs in the case  Texas Alliance for Retired Americans, the national senatorial and congressional committees of the Democratic Party, and Sylvia Bruni, chair of the Webb County Democratic Party  had filed suit against the law, mostly supported by Republicans.

They claimed that it would illegally impede Texans right to vote and disproportionately impact African-American and Hispanic voters, who tend to use the method more than non-minority voters.

An attorney for the plaintiffs did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Texas Democratic Party spokesman Abhi Rahman condemned the courts decision.

The courts in Texas have made it no easier for voters, and they continue to fail them in this case, Rahman said. Republicans in Texas have the restrictive election rules they want. They will have no excuse when Democrats win up and down the ballot.
Good, a former board supervisor in Campbell County, seems to be speaking to the Trump base on red-meat issues such as crime, Coleman said, while repeatedly trying to paint his opponent as a radical. He often accuses Webb of supporting defunding the police, which is also the underpinning of a new attack ad by the Congressional Leadership Fund, the super PAC devoted to electing Republicans in the House.
"Chandra has a strong reputation as a strategic leader, and we are thrilled to welcome her to the Acosta family," said Brian Wynne, CEO of Acosta. "Her ability to repeatedly deliver high levels of team engagement and EBITDA growth through a combination of people, systems and financial acumen is impressive. Combined with her extensive understanding of the CPG industry, we are confident Chandra will continue to strengthen Acosta's financial position and take us to the next level in this vital role."

Most recently, McCormack served as CFO for Greyhound Lines, Inc., a complex transportation network with operations in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Before Greyhound, she served in CFO roles at several retail, restaurant and CPG companies, including 13 years with Dean Foods Company in various financial leadership roles.



McCormack is a certified public accountant and earned her MBA from The University of Texas at Arlington. She was recognized as a CFO of the Year Honoree by the Dallas Business Journal in 2016 and 2019 and was named one of the Top 15 Business Women of Dallas by the National Women's Council in 2016. McCormack also received Texas Diversity Magazine's inaugural Dallas Power 50 award in 2018, which recognizes the city's most powerful and influential women.



About Acosta

Acosta is the sales and marketing powerhouse behind most of the trusted brands seen in stores every day. The company provides a range of outsourced sales, marketing and retail merchandising services throughout the U.S., Canada and Europe. For 90 years, Acosta has led the industry in helping consumer packaged goods companies move products off shelves and into shoppers' baskets. For more information, please visit www.acosta.com.

SOURCE Acosta

Related Links

http://www.acosta.com


SAN DIEGO, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Reliant Funding, a leading small business finance provider, announces its most recent dual benefit program. Combining access to funding for American Small Businesses and charitable giving. This program will raise funds for the American Cancer Society, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. For every new small business client that receives funding, the company will donate $100 to the American Cancer Society to combat breast cancer.

"We work to do everything possible to support both small businesses and organizations dedicated to bettering our public health, now more than ever this is of utmost importance," said CEO of Reliant Funding, Adam Stettner. "This initiative will provide funding for SMBs in need of capital and aid the ACS in their research and assistance for patients in need of care."

Reliant Funding is dedicated to providing short-term funding to SMBs in a variety of industries from construction, transportation and restaurants to retail and healthcare. In addition to establishing funding through its own programs, Reliant has helped American Small Business owners navigate government sponsored programs including Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act ('CARES Act') via access to Payroll Protection Program and others. All with the goal of providing access to stabilizing and growing businesses nationwide.

Every October Reliant Funding partners with the American Cancer Society by having its team participate in a breast cancer walk. This year, that walk will be a 3k virtual walk with bracelets, ribbons and custom t-shirts, all to raise awareness and money for this great cause. In addition to donating on behalf of funded clients, Reliant Funding will match donations raised by employees. More than eighty percent of Reliant Funding employees take part in the company's charitable efforts throughout the year.

The American Cancer Society, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer is a movement to unite and fight back to end breast cancer. The impact of COVID-19 has reduced the ability to fund cancer research by fifty percent in 2020making fundraising efforts more important than ever.

For more information on Reliant Funding, please click here.

Reliant Funding provides customized, short-term funding to small and mid-sized businesses nationwide. For more information, please visit www.reliantfunding.com.

CONTACT: Kate Kelly, [email protected], (858) 848-9706

SOURCE Reliant Funding

Related Links

http://www.reliantfunding.com


Armenian News - NEWS.am presents the latest news on the Nagorno-Karabakh clashes as of 01.10.2020:

LOSSES

The Azerbaijani losses amounted to 130 people killed, 260 wounded, 29 different types of armored vehicles, 3 TOS-type heavy artillery, and 11 different types of UAVs, Suren Sarumyan, spokesman for the Minister of Defense of Artsakh Suren Sarumyan, told a briefing Thursday.

On September 27, the Azerbaijani Armed Forces launched an offensive along the entire length of the contact line in Karabakh.

Both Armenia and Azerbaijan have declared martial law and mobilized their armed forces.

SYRINGES

In general, all the corpses of Azerbaijani soldiers that ended up in the Armenian territory had syringes in the pockets, Vahram Poghosyan, spokesperson for the Artsakh President, told a briefing Thursday.

"This bespeaks that Azerbaijan is sending troops to war in a state of already drugged. This is definitely a war crime from the point of view of international law," he added.

DRONE IS DOWNED

The Artsakh Information Center has published a photo of one of the Azerbaijani drones that was downed in Askeran town by Artsakh.

"The peaceful settlement was the target of the UAV. The UAV was hit in the neighborhood of a residential district. The photos were provided by the State Service of Emergency Situations of the Artsakh Republic, reads the respective statement on the Facebook page of the Artsakh Information Center.

HELICOPTER DOWNED

The units of the Artsakh Defense Army on Thursday shot down an Azerbaijani combat helicopter in the area of Varazatumb (Lele Tepe) in the southern part of the Artsakh-Azerbaijani conflict zone, and it crashed in the territory of Iran.

The Defense Army informs Armenian News-NEWS.am that the Artsakh Ministry of Defense states that the aforesaid was not intentional, and as the hostilities unleashed by Azerbaijan are very close to the Iranian border, unfortunately, such cases are inevitable.

SYRIAN MILITANTS

With the support of Ankara, Turkish private military companies select mercenaries in Syria and transfer them to the Karabakh conflict zone to take part in hostilities on the Azerbaijani side, the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) reported.

SOHR has registered at least 850 such militants transferred to Azerbaijan. Their main task was to protect certain facilities; but as a result, they were involved in hostilities.

Citing its sources, SOHR reports that the majority of these mercenaries are of Turkmen descent. Arab factions supporting Ankara, however, have refused to provide militants.

In the meantime, the SOHR has documented the death of the first Syrian fighter from Ankara-backed factions.

ISRAEL SENDING WEAPONS

Israel is sending weapons to Azerbaijan amid the escalation, according to officials and intelligence sources, Al Arabiya English reported.

Israel has been one of the main providers of arms to Azerbaijan despite Armenia officially opening an embassy in Tel Aviv just this month.

Over the weekend, a US intelligence source told Al Arabiya English that Israel was sending planes full of weapons to Azerbaijan.

Israel supplies weapons to [Azerbaijan]; two cargo flights from Israel have already landed in Baku today, the source said.

Those Turkish drones are unstoppable, the source added.

SPYING

Armenian ex-high-ranking military man accused of spying for Azerbaijan, National Security Service reported.

Armenian citizen has transferred or collected information containing state secrets to transfer to representatives of a foreign organization.

While in Georgia, the accused was recruited by representatives of the Azerbaijani special services, received specific assignments to obtain information about the external security of Artsakh and Armenia, the Armed Forces, weapons, or the transfer of information received within the service, including regarding the number of personnel, the number, and types of weapons, military equipment, officers of units, etc.
In this article F

Incoming Ford CEO Jim Farley (left) and Ford Executive Chairman Bill Ford Jr. pose with a 2021 F-150 during an event Sept. 17, 2020 at the company's Michigan plant that produces the pickup. Michael Wayland | CNBC

Ford Motor's new CEO Jim Farley is shaking up the company's top ranks and restructuring operations as the automaker struggles to bolster shareholder confidence and stay relevant in an increasingly competitive market. Farley, who succeeds Jim Hackett, is streamlining operations and refocusing on key growth areas like autonomous and electric technologies as well as commercial vehicles. The changes come at a pivotal time for Ford. For years, the company has failed to gain Wall Street's confidence in its business operations and labored to execute an $11 billion turnaround plan announced by Hackett in 2018. Ford shares slid 40% under Hackett, who succeeded longtime Ford executive Mark Fields as CEO in May 2017. The stock is down 28% so far this year. Farley hopes to get Ford back into Wall Street's good graces, something Hackett and Fields were unable to accomplish. It's something only former Boeing executive Alan Mulally, who led the Ford through the Great Recession without bankruptcy, has been able to do in recent history. "During the past three years, under Jim Hackett's leadership, we have made meaningful progress and opened the door to becoming a vibrant, profitably growing company," Farley, who became CEO effective Thursday, said in a statement. "Now it's time to charge through that door."

The goal, according to the company, is to "move with urgency to turn around its automotive operations  improving quality, reducing costs and accelerating the restructuring of underperforming businesses." That will include leveraging its critically important and $42 billion F-Series pickup franchise to finance investments in emerging technologies. Ford is viewed by many as being behind others, particularly General Motors, in its plans for autonomous and electrified vehicles as well as global cost restructuring. Ford also must maintain, if not grow, its truck business amid a host of new electric pickups expected from Tesla, GM and startup Rivian, among others. The company plans to release an electric version of its F-150 pickup in mid-2022. Farley, who most recently served as chief operating officer, announced the changes during a virtual town hall meeting Thursday with the company's global team.

Ex-Amazon exec out as CFO

CFO Tim Stone, a former Amazon executive who was a high-profile hire for Hackett, is leaving the company after just 18 months, the company announced. Stone, 53, is going to artificial-intelligence software company ASAPP as chief operating officer and chief financial officer, Ford said. He'll be succeeded by John Lawler, 54, who most recently served as CEO of Ford's autonomous vehicles unit and vice president of mobility partnerships. He spent much of his 30 years at Ford in finance leadership and general management.

Tim Stone, Ford Motor Co. Chief Financial Officer, speaks during an interview outside the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in New York, August 17, 2020. Brendan McDermid | Reuters

Ford also plans to add new executives as chief information officer and chief marketing officer. Jeff Lemmer, 55, Ford's chief information officer, will retire Jan. 1 after 33 years with the company. Joy Falotico, 53, who has been president of the automaker's luxury Lincoln brand and Ford's chief marketing officer, will be dedicated solely to the Lincoln line. A Ford spokesman said the new marketing and information officer are expected to be announced soon. Ford's head of manufacturing in Europe also will retire effective immediately and be replaced by the region's director of manufacturing and strategic partnerships.

Farley
As Nigeria marks its 60th independence anniversary, the United States government has congratulated Nigerians on their commitment to tackling corruption, strengthening democratic institutions and leveraging entrepreneurship.

The United States Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, congratulated Nigeria in a statement on Thursday on behalf of the U.S Government.

Mr Pompeo said that the United States and Nigeria shared important democratic values and a similar entrepreneurial spirit.

Mr Pompeo said the U.S. would continue to support Nigerians as they seek to collaborate with their neighbours to expand regional peace and security and counter violent extremists.

On behalf of the United States Government and the American people, I extend best wishes to the people of Nigeria on the 60th anniversary of their independence.

Our countries share important democratic values and a similar entrepreneurial spirit, and we congratulate the Nigerian people for your commitment to tackling corruption, strengthening democratic institutions, and leveraging Nigerian entrepreneurship to promote economic recovery.

Even now, the people-to-people partnerships between our two nations are helping Nigeria combat the threat posed by COVID-19. Nigeria is an important leader in West Africa and across the entire continent.

The United States will continue to support the Nigerian people as you seek to collaborate with your neighbors to expand regional peace and security and counter violent extremists, Mr Pompeo said.

He also said the United States looked forward to continuing working with a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria and to making progress in support of their shared values in the coming year.

(NAN)
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic and a recent surge in virus cases, the Czech Republic has announced a 30-day state of emergency across the country starting from October 5. Czech Health Minister Roman Prymula informed of the government's decision on Wednesday, September 30.

Read: Boris Johnson Says UK At critical Moment In Coronavirus Fight

Will be less stringent compared to before: Health Minister

As per reports, the Czech Health Minister said, The state of emergency will allow us to quickly respond to the current situation amid new measures against the spread of the disease, in particular, to involve medical students in helping staff in hospitals and distributing necessary medical supplies. In general, the measures will be less stringent compared to the spring ones. In particular, stores, cafes or, for example, borders will not be closed. The government intends to preserve the economy as much as possible.

According to reports, the new measures will allow up to 10 people to gather for indoor events while the limit is 20 people for outdoor events. In an attempt to preserve the economy stores, cafes and other such establishments will not be closed, and while sporting events can go ahead, no spectators will be allowed in the events. In addition, secondary schools in the Czech Republic that have reported the highest number of COVID-19 cases will be closed for two weeks.

Read: North Dakota Tries Ad Campaign, Not Mask Rule, To Stem Virus

As per reports, the Czech government had withdrawn almost all COVID-19 lockdown restrictions that had been imposed during the first wave of the pandemic but due to the recent surge in virus cases, the decision to declare a state of emergency was deemed necessary. The Czech Republic has currently reported over 67,000 positive virus cases with a death toll of more than 600.

The COVID-19 pandemic which saw its first outbreak in a wet market in Wuhan, China last year has now spread all across the world. The virus, named COVID-19 by the World Health Organisation, has infected over 34 million people worldwide with the global death toll crossing the one million mark. The US has reported more than 7.4 million positive COVID-19 cases and a death toll of over 210,000.

(With ANI inputs, Image: ANI)

Read: US Hospitals Feel Squeeze As Coronavirus Spikes In Midwest

Read: WHO Chief Tedros Adhanom Says Actual COVID-19 Deaths 'certainly Higher' Than 1 Million
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Five Staten Island schools reported at least one new coronavirus case, the New York State Department of Health (DOH) COVID-19 report card shows.

Three students, two at the Academy of St. Dorothy in Grasmere, and one at Staten Island Academy in Dongan Hills, tested positive for the virus, according to the state DOH.

Paulo Intermediate School (I.S. 75) in Huguenot also reported a positive case among its community, but since the person was not present on campus no further action is necessary, Principal Kenneth Zapata said in a letter sent to the schools community on Thursday.

Today we are writing to inform you, out of an abundance of caution, that on September 28, 2020 a member of our school community tested positive for COVID-19, Zapata wrote. After investigation, the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and the NYC Test and Trace Corps have concluded that there has been NO exposure to the school community because the person was NOT at school while infectious. Therefore, there are no plans for classroom or school closures, and students should continue to attend as regularly scheduled.

The person who tested positive is a student, according to the state DOH.

A member of the community at Lavelle Preparatory School in Bloomfield also tested positive, the state DOH said.

It is the second coronavirus case reported at Lavelle; the Advance/SILive.com previously reported on a prior case.

St. Patricks School in Richmond also reported a positive coronavirus case, Principal Vincent Sadowski wrote on Sept. 29 in a letter obtained by the Advance/SILive.com.

We are handling this situation with the utmost seriousness. The day of last exposure was Friday, September 25th, 2020, CDC advises that any symptoms of coronavirus appear between 2 and 14 days from the date of exposure, Sadowski wrote.

As a precaution, grades 6th and 8th moved to remote learning for a day.

"In the event of a positive test, our schools follow the protocols and policies set forth by federal, state and local health authorities, including a New York City Department of Health epidemiologist, T.J. McCormack, director of communications and public relations for the Archdiocese of New York, said in a statement.

The 7th grade will be fully remote until Oct. 13.

As of Thursday afternoon, 23 schools have reported at least one coronavirus case. Overall, 30 cases have been reported at schools in the borough.
What Is Reformation Day?

Reformation Day, annually occurring on October 31, honors Luthers posting of his 95 Theses on the Castle Church doors in Wittenberg, Germany on October 31, 1517. This holiday is largely exclusive to Protestants as a commemoration of the origin of the Protestant Reformation. Luther's 95 theses sparked the Reformation, as they were quickly translated and spread across Germany within weeks.

Dr. Ray Pritchard writes, on Reformation Day we pause to give thanks to God for Martin Luther and for the recovery of the gospel truth that we are declared righteous in the eyes of God solely on the basis of what Jesus Christ accomplished for us in his bloody death and victorious resurrection.

Reformation Day in 2020

Traditionally observed on October 31st, the same day as Halloween, Reformation Day is a Protestant holiday that celebrates the Reformation movement begun by Martin Luther in the 16th century. In numerous of the German states, it is a public holiday, and likewise, many branches of the government and court system are often closed. In the United States, this holiday is normally moved to the Sunday preceding Halloween, a day recognized as Reformation Sunday, which will be October 25 in 2020.

Origin of Reformation Day

On October 31, 1517, an obscure monk named Martin Luther, desiring to spark theological discussion over the medieval practice of selling indulgences, nailed his 95 Theses on the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany. That happened 503 years ago today. The spark he set off ignited a flame that spread across Europe and became known as the Protestant Reformation. By challenging the church's authority and its doctrine, Luther reclaimed for Christianity the central doctrine of salvation-justification by faith alone.

Luther took a bold and dangerous step as he nailed a paper to the door of a Cathedral in Wittenberg, Germany on which he had written 95 complaints against the only Christian community of his day - his own Church. It went down in history as the beginning of the Protestant Reformation. The protests that were written that day for the public to see began the most dramatic reform within Christianity.

Meaning of Reformation Day

The Protestant Reformation was the proclamation of the justification doctrinethat is, salvation by grace alone (Galatians 2:21) through faith alone in Christ alone. It was also an objection against degradation within the Roman Catholic Church. The century before the Reformation was characterized by public concern with the exploitation of the leaders in the Roman Catholic Church along with its false doctrines, biblical illiteracy, and superstition. Monks, priests, bishops, and popes in Rome taught unbiblical dogmas like the sale of indulgences, the treasury of merit, purgatory, and salvation through good works.

In Martin Luther's own words:

"I greatly longed to understand Paul's Epistle to the Romans and nothing stood in the way but that one expression, the justice of God,' [Rom. 1:17] because I took it to mean that justice whereby God is just and deals justly in punishing the unjust. My situation was that, although an impeccable monk, I stood before God as a sinner troubled in conscience, and I had no confidence that my merit would assuage him. Therefore I did not love a just and angry God, but rather hated and murmured against him. "Yet I clung to the dear Paul and had a great yearning to know what he meant. Night and day I pondered until I saw the connection between the justice of God and the statement that the just shall live by his faith' [Rom. 1:17]. Then I grasped that the justice of God is that righteousness by which through grace and sheer mercy God justifies us through faith. Thereupon I felt myself to be reborn and to have gone through open doors into paradise. The whole of Scripture took on a new meaning, and whereas the justice of God' had filled me with hate, now it became to me inexpressively sweet in greater love. This passage of Paul became to me a gate of heaven."(see Of First Importance)

Battle-Cry of the Reformation: A Mighty Fortress is Our God

Martin Luther believed that church music was for everyone to sing. "The devil who is the originator of sorrowful anxieties and restless trouble flees before the sound of God's music almost as much as before the Word of God," Luther declared.

With that inspiration, he composed the hymn, "A mighty fortress is our God." It is a bold affirmation of our powerful and loving God:

"A mighty fortress is our God. A bulwark never failing.

Our helper He amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing.

For still our ancient foe, doth seek to work us woe.

His craft and power are great, And armed with cruel hate,

On earth is not His equal."

From the writings of professor Kenneth Osbeck in 101 Hymn Stories, we read that Luthers' famous hymn is the most powerful one of the Protestant Reformation. Osbeck writes: "It became the battle cry of the people, a great source of strength. This hymn has been translated into practically every known language and is regarded as one of the noblest and most classic examples of Christian hymnody."

Christy Nockels - A Mighty Fortress from bobmarshall on GodTube.

This hymn covers the full sweep of the Christian's life. In it, we find the answer to conflict, striving, spiritual warfare, and at last, victory. The second verse describes it beautifully:

"Did we in our own strength confide, Our striving would be losing.

Were not the right Man on our side, The man of God's own choosing.

Dost ask who that might be? Christ Jesus it is He.

Lord Sabaoth His name, From age to age the same.

And He must win the battle."

Sources

Reformation Day: A Mighty Fortress is Our God | Christianity.com

Reformation Day by Dr. Ray Pritchard | Christianity.com

Photo by form PxHere
kali9/iStockBy BILL HUTCHINSON, ALEX STONE and MATT GUTMAN, ABC News



(LOS ANGELES) -- A suspect has been arrested in the brazen ambush shooting that left two Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department deputies severely wounded, authorities said.



Authorities identified the suspect as 36-year-old Deonte Murray.



Los Angeles Sheriff Alex Villanueva announced the arrest during a news conference on Wednesday, saying the Sept. 12 surprise attack showed "the worst of humanity -- a cowardly act where a suspect ambushed and shot and attempted to kill two of our deputies.''



"This cowardly ambush was followed by bystanders celebrating and cheering that the deputies had been shot, and that followed at the hospital -- the sanctity, the quiet sanctity of the hospital -- with protesters cheering and chanting for the deputies to die,'' Villanueva said. "These acts and that day, I will not forget it, and it represents the worst in humanity and it shocked the whole nation. And that evening, I said we will find this man. And I can report today, we have found our suspect.''



Murray had been in custody since Sept. 15, when he was arrested in connection with an alleged carjacking and a 10-hour standoff with police in the Lynwood section of Los Angeles, sheriff's officials said. But when he was arrested, sheriff's officials told reporters that Murray was not the suspect in the shooting of the deputies and that the search for that gunman, which prompted a reward that soared to $675,000 with private donations, was ongoing.



During Wednesday's news conference, Villanueva faced numerous questions about why his agency initially ruled out Murray as the ambush suspect. Officials claimed that at the time of Murray's arrest they didn't know for sure he was the alleged gunman.



Murray was arraigned on Wednesday in the Compton branch of Los Angeles Superior Court on two counts of willful, deliberate and premeditated attempted murder of a peace officer and one count of possession of a firearm by a felon, according to a statement from Los Angeles County District Attorney Jackie Lacey. Murray pleaded not guilty to the charges, and a preliminary hearing has been set for Oct. 28.



Murray, who was ordered held in jail on $6.15 million, faces a maximum sentence of life in prison if convicted, Lacey added.



Murray's lawyer, deputy public defender Jack Keenan, told ABC News on Thursday that he could not comment on the case because he'd yet to receive any investigative reports or evidence from prosecutors.



"The only thing I can tell you is I am concerned with Mr. Murray's safety at the jail," Keenan said. "The jails here are run by the sheriff. He [Murray] is accused of shooting two sheriff's deputies. He's informed me that while in jail he's been threatened, harassed, denied food."



Keenan said that when he went to visit Murray at the jail on Thursday morning, he watched deputies manhandle his client.



"I witnessed one of the deputies take his forearm and place it across the back of Mr. Murray's neck, and then they brought him to the ground before I was told to get out," said Keenan, adding that Murray was dressed in a suicide gown, or a padded blanket garment, despite not being suicidal.



A spokesman for the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department had no immediate comment, telling ABC News he hadn't heard of any reports of problems at the jail concerning Murray, but would look into the matter.



Deputies attacked



The ambush unfolded on Sept. 12 as the two deputies, whose names have not been released by the sheriff's department, sat in a marked patrol vehicle near the Martin Luther King Jr. Transit Center in Compton, authorities said. Surveillance video released by the sheriff's department showed an individual dressed in black shorts, a dark jacket and wielding a pistol walk up to the vehicle and shoot through the passenger-side window without warning.



The shooter ran to a black four-door sedan and sped away, authorities said. As the gunman fled, surveillance video showed the patrol vehicle's passenger-side door open and one of the wounded deputies, described as a 31-year-old mother of a 6-year-old, stumble out.



Villanueva told ABC News earlier last month that despite being shot four or five times, including once in the jaw, the female deputy walked around the patrol vehicle to help her 24-year-old partner, who suffered gunshot wounds to his forehead, arms and one hand.



Both deputies initially were in critical condition and taken to St. Francis Medical Center, where they underwent surgery. They've since been released but are facing long rehabilitation periods, officials said.



Officials have not commented on Murray's motive for the alleged ambush "beyond the fact that he hates policemen and wants them dead," said Kent Wegener, captain of the LA Sheriff's Homicide Bureau.



Keenan, also representing Murray in the carjacking case, told ABC News his client hasn't expressed anti-police views.



"In the time I've been dealing with him, he's not expressed any anger or feelings toward the deputies other than his treatment by them," Keenan said. "Mr. Murray hasn't expressed any dislike for the sheriffs in any way. I think, unfortunately, the sheriff wants to try this right now in front of the press without any evidence."



At the time of Murray's arrest, reports circulated online implying that the armed carjacking suspect caught in Lynwood could be the gunman wanted in the surprise attack on the two deputies. However, the sheriff's department issued a statement describing the online reports as "ERRONEOUS information" and said "there are no named or wanted suspects at this time."



MORE: Reward for wanted gunman who shot 2 Los Angeles sheriff's deputies grows to $675,000

When Murray was arrested, reporters asked Villanueva why Murray was being held on $2 million bail and asked the sheriff directly if he was connected to the ambush, according to ABC Los Angeles station KABC.



"[He] was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon and carjacking,'' Villanueva said then. "And he actually shot the victim with an AR-15, and stole the vehicle. So that, itself, is going to necessitate the higher bail. And he is an extremely dangerous person, and thankfully he was arrested without incident -- without, at least, anybody being injured."



Lacey said the carjacking occurred Sept. 1 in Compton, where Murray allegedly shot the carjacking victim in the leg. Following Murray's arrest Sept. 15, he was charged with one count each of carjacking, second-degree robbery and assault with a semi-automatic firearm.

Copyright  2020, ABC Audio. All rights reserved.
Biotech heavyweights CSL and Cochlear have said the federal government needs to offer stronger incentives to encourage local innovators to build their inventions in Australia rather than overseas.

While the local medical technology sector has welcomed Prime Minister Scott Morrisons $1.5 billion plan to boost advanced manufacturing across six key industries, including medical products, it has warned that policymakers need to think beyond simply throwing money at the sector.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison discusses advanced manufacturing at the National Press Club in Canberra on Thursday. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer

Dig Howitt, the chief executive of ASX-listed hearing implant maker Cochlear, said the governments focus on medical products was welcome, but warned that creating high-quality jobs in the sector would need funding initiatives to be backed up by other policies.

This could include tax incentives for profits made from locally developed intellectual property such as those offered by many other countries, he said.
The best bang for your buck! This option enables you to purchase online 24/7 access and receive the Sunday, Tuesday & Thursday print edition at no additional cost * Print edition only available in our carrier delivery area. Allow up to 72 hours for delivery of your print edition to begin. Print edition not available for Day Pass option.
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - October 1, 2020) - American Aires Inc. (CSE: WIFI) (the "Company" or "Aires") is pleased to announce their inclusion on an additional product sales fulfillment platform that allows Aires to deliver to customers directly from a globally recognized leader in online sales and fulfillment.

Aires continues to aggressively build out both their online sales platforms and fulfillment, the newest of which enables Aires to reach a far larger customer base than found on any of the other e-commerce platforms, along with a fully integrated fulfillment process that is managed through an established "partner".

This program offers increased exposure and represents a preferred selection of approved vendors for customers, offering faster delivery, typically within in one or two days and at no cost to the purchaser.

"Aires continues to add 'best of breed' third parties to its existing e-commerce platforms and this is an ideal example of another solid step forward in seeing our exuberant growth in sales," commented Dimitry Serov. "We look forward to reporting record sales for the quarter in our Q3 quarterly report with September being a record for sales in the company's history. Our efforts are translating into significant gain and sales results."

About American Aires Inc. American Aires Inc. is a nanotechnology company which has developed proprietary silicon-based microprocessors that reduce the harmful effects of electromagnetic radiation (EMR). The technology was developed by a team of highly credited scientists and confirmed by independent third-party validation including peer reviewed studies and publications in scientific journals. The technology specifically targets cellphones, computers, baby monitors, Wi-Fi radiation and general EMR emitted by consumer electronic devices. Aires has launched a full suite of consumer products under the brand name "Airestech" for use on almost all consumer electronic devices. The Company has adopted a global ecommerce and distribution platform that scales easily as sales grow. Since launching in 2019, Aires has enjoyed exuberant growth. The company has been aggressively building out their ecommerce platform which is now capable of delivering up to 10,000 shipments a day along with recent customer service center agreements. Strategically placed fulfillment centers have been secured to ensure prompt delivery around the globe (see PR Jan. 31, 2020). With the launch of 5G networks around the world, this year, we are seeing an increase of news, reports and leading health organizations discussing the potential harm of EMR and the importance of identifying solutions to reduce these harmful rays. Aires products are the solution. www.airestech.com

On behalf of the board of directors

Company Contact

Dimitry Serov, CEO

Email: dimitry@airestech.com

Telephone: (905) 482-4667

Website: www.airestech.com

For further information please contact:

Investor Cubed Inc.:

Neil Simon, CEO

Email: wifi@airestech.com

Telephone: (647) 258-3310

Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements regarding future financial position, business strategy, use of proceeds, corporate vision, proposed acquisitions, partnerships, joint-ventures and strategic alliances and co-operations, budgets, cost and plans and objectives of or involving the Company. Such forward-looking information reflects management's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to management. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "predicts", "intends", "targets", "aims", "anticipates" or "believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases or may be identified by statements to the effect that certain actions "may", "could", "should", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. A number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors may cause the actual results or performance to materially differ from any future results or performance expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of the Company including, but not limited to, the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions and dependence upon regulatory approvals. Certain material assumptions regarding such forward-looking statements may be discussed in this news release and the Company's annual and quarterly management's discussion and analysis filed at www.sedar.com. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by securities laws.

No securities regulatory authority has either approved or disapproved of the contents of this news release. The Shares have not been, nor will they be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States, or to or for the account or benefit of any person in the United States, absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any common shares in the United States, or in any other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. We seek safe harbour.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Not intended for distribution to United States Newswire Services or for dissemination in the United States. Any failure to comply with this restriction may constitute a violation of United States Securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/65018
Manlius, N.Y.  A manhunt in Manlius Wednesday started when a resident fled his home wearing nothing but boxers as parole officers arrived for a standard visit, state officials said.

State parole officers were conducting a home visit at the residence of 28-year-old Willie D. Jones at the East Gate Apartments in Manlius Wednesday morning, officials said.

Jones has been under parole supervision since 2018 and such visits are standard, said Thomas Mailey, spokesman for the state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision.

When parole officers arrived, they did not have a warrant nor were they there to arrest Jones, the spokesman said. At the time of the visit, there was no warrant for Jones' arrest and Jones was not in custody, he said.

Jones denied parole officers access to the home and instead left out a back door, Mailey said.

The Manlius Police Department notified the public of the incident on its Facebook page at 11:24 a.m. Wednesday. In the post, Manlius police said Jones was wanted and that he had escaped from parole officers wearing only a pair of boxer shorts.

Mr. Jones did not escape from DOCCS custody yesterday, Mailey said in a statement today.

Willie Jones, 28, of Manlius.

Prior to Wednesdays incident, Manlius police filed for a warrant for the arrest of Jones for a recent non-violent offense in the Village of Manlius. The warrant stems from a suspicious person investigation involving Jones from Sept. 25. Manlius police Sgt. Ross Carnie said state parole officers were aware of Manlius polices ongoing investigation into Jones at the time of the visit.

Manlius police said Jones had a violent criminal history. Jones served more than four years in state prison after being convicted of second-degree burglary in Onondaga County in 2014. He has two years of post-release supervision thats slated to end Feb. 23, 2021. He has not returned to state prison for a parole violation since his release, Mailey said.

Manlius police, New York State Police, the Onondaga County Sheriffs Office and state parole officers searched for Jones. State parole officers located Jones around 4:55 p.m. Wednesday and took him into custody.

He is currently being held at the Onondaga County Justice Center.

Contact Jacob Pucci at jpucci@syracuse.com or find him on Twitter at @JacobPucci.
Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner speaks about recent violent attacks against Black transgender women and the need for greater support and protections for LGBT people during a news conference Thursday. Read more

Decrying recent violence against transgender women in Philadelphia, District Attorney Larry Krasner on Thursday called for more protections for people in the LGBT community.

If the criminal justice system is so frightening to marginalized people, that they will not complain when they are victimized  then the criminal justice system fails, Krasner said while standing near the Octavius V. Catto Memorial on the south apron of City Hall.

He was joined at a news conference by Deputy Police Commissioner Ben Naish, State Sen. Larry Farnese (D., Phila.), and LGBT leaders three days after patrol officers in the Belmont section of West Philadelphia pulled over a Jeep Wrangler during a traffic stop, and discovered in the passenger seat a transgender woman who was shot in her neck.

Mia Green, 29, died shortly afterward at a hospital, and the driver of the Jeep, Abdullah Ibn El-Amin Jaamia, 38, of North Philadelphia, was charged the next day with murder. Police said the fatal shooting followed an argument.

 READ MORE: Philly man argued with a transgender woman before killing her, police say

Krasner declined to elaborate on details of Greens killing or comment on the relationship between Green and El-Amin Jaamia. Instead, he urged people in marginalized communities not to be afraid to speak to law enforcement authorities, saying they will be protected.

Farnese, minority chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, has introduced bills that would expand legal protections for LGBT people, including a measure that would make it a hate crime to attack a person based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

In 2014, Philadelphia passed legislation that recognizes attacks based on gender identity or sexual orientation as hate crimes, but the measure only allows such a crime  defined as ethnic intimidation  to be charged as a summary offense.

These arent just stories, Farnese said at the news conference. They are lives and they are our loved ones.

Farnese also mentioned the June killing of Dominique Remmie Fells, 27, who was stabbed to death and whose dismembered body was found in the Schuylkill. Police have issued an arrest warrant for Akhenaton Jones, 36, of Powelton, on charges of murder, possession of an instrument of crime, tampering with evidence, and abuse of corpse. He remains a fugitive.

And Farnese noted that in August, Kendall Stephens, 34, another Black transgender woman, was assaulted by a group of women and men in her Point Breeze home. Tymesha Wearing, 34, of Kingsessing, was arrested and charged last month with conspiracy, aggravated assault, ethnic intimidation, and related offenses in the attack.

 READ MORE: Philly woman arrested in August assault of transgender woman

Celena Morrison, executive director of the citys Office of LGBT Affairs, said that while the LGBT community has long experienced disproportionate rates of violence, the past few months have been especially difficult. She mourned the slayings of Fells and Green, and also those of Tony McDade, a Black transgender man in Florida, and Black transgender women Nina Pop in Missouri and Riah Milton in Ohio.

When we talk about reducing violence against the community, knowing that there will be consequences for these actions is obviously a critical deterrent for those seeking to do harm, Morrison said.

Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw did not attend the news conference, but added her support in a statement. The murder of Mia Green is yet another despicable act of violence against a member of our LGBTQ community, she said. While an arrest was quickly made, we must continue to work hard to ensure that the man responsible is held accountable in order to bring a measure of justice to Mia and her family.

In the death of Fells, anyone with knowledge of Jones' whereabouts is asked to contact police at 215-686-TIPS (-8477) or by email at tips@phillypolice.com.
What just happened? The US election is on the horizon, and, as expected, misinformation originating from foreign sources is landing on social media. Earlier this week, Twitter removed 130 accounts that were trying to disrupt public conversation around the first presidential debate. It appears that the accounts had links to Iran.

Twitter announced that it removed the accounts based on FBI intel, noting that they had low engagement and did not impact public conversation because of their prompt removal.

The platform said it would publish the accounts and their contents in full once an investigation is complete. The sample tweets showed support for Trump and questioned whether moderator Chris Wallace is nonpartisan.

We identified these accounts quickly, removed them from Twitter, and shared full details with our peers, as standard. They had very low engagement and did not make an impact on the public conversation. Our capacity and speed continue to grow, and we'll remain vigilant. Samples  pic.twitter.com/1qzzL8l29H  Twitter Safety (@TwitterSafety) October 1, 2020

The FBI confirmed it informed Twitter of the accounts in an effort to protect national security and the democratic process. A spokesman in the FBI's San Francisco field office told CNET: "Although we cannot discuss the specific information provided, the FBI regularly shares information with social media companies so they can better protect their platforms."

While Russia is the usual culprit when it comes to US election interference, Iran has been behind misinformation campaigns in the past. In June 2019, Twitter removed 4,779 accounts linked to the Middle Eastern country's government.

We know to expect foreign interference in this year's election. Earlier this month, a new report claimed the same Russian-backed hackers blamed for breaking into the Democratic National Committee (DNC) in 2016, Fancy Bear, targeted one of Joe Biden's campaign advisory firms, but its attempts failed.
American Murder

The Watts family in American Murder: The Family Next Door Netflix/Shanann Watts

On Aug. 15, 2018, Chris Watts was arrested and subsequently confessed to killing his pregnant wife, Shanann, and their two daughters, Cece and Bella. The story became an immediate media sensation. Watts had spent the five weeks prior appearing on local television stations in Frederick, Colo., tearfully requesting the return of his family.

"Shanann, Bella, Celeste, if you're out there, just come back," Mr. Watts said on Aug. 14 in an interview with Denver7. "If somebody has her, just bring her back. I need to see everybody."

The details of the crime are sickening, but perhaps more so was the public response to the case. People flocked to Shanann's Facebook page and proceeded to dissect the reasons Chris could have been driven to kill her  her costly fertility treatments, the copious amounts of personal videos online, her involvement in the multilevel marketing company Lev-el, which sold caffeine patches and supplements marketed as weight loss aids.

The narrative quickly turned from "How could he do this?" to "What did she do to make him do this?" But filmmaker Jenny Popplewell wants to flip the narrative yet again. In her new Netflix documentary "American Murder: The Family Next Door," Popplewell uses both archival footage and Shanann's personal videos to compile a portrait of a loving mother and wife  who was experiencing what she perceived to be typical relationship strains  and pushes against the idea that Chris "just snapped."

Popplewell spoke with Salon about what it was like editing the "Pandora's box" of footage, her views on the harassment Shanann's family has received, and the horrifying reality of "family annihilators."

When did you first become familiar with the story of Shanann Watts?

It was towards the end of 2018. It wasn't front page news here in the U.K. because, obviously, this happened in another country and we were in the depths of Brexit chats. But I first saw the story in the paper and I wasn't initially looking at it as a filmmaker. I was just shocked as a parent that this seemingly "normal" family could have this happen to them. I've followed the story to her Facebook page and that's where I kind of went down the rabbit hole.

Story continues

To that end, the backbone of this documentary is archival footage. Some of it is expected  interrogation tape, body cam footage. But there was also this huge wealth of really personal footage from Shanann's social media and some of her text exchanges. When did you know that that existed and how did you procure some of it for the film?

I knew that a percentage of it existed. I'd seen the testimonials online where she had made these Facebook Live videos and described her life in a number of videos, talked about illness, talked about what a great dad Chris was, what a great husband, how much they love their children. There were a lot of happy family photos.

But it wasn't until I went to North Carolina and met with her family where they were kind enough to show me the contents of her phone and her laptop drives, which had even more photos and videos. They also gave me her wedding video. So when I came back to the U.K. with this content, it was a "Pandora's box." Who knew what was in there? But it was just thousands and thousands and thousands of happy memories. So relatable. All the weekends revolved around the children; they did everything together.

[The videos] also caught private home videos during the last five weeks while she's in North Carolina with the children, and while Chris is having an affair in Colorado. So, it was really all covered in the hard drive.

There's an interesting point made in the documentary about how, after Shanann's disappearance and death, people harassed her family. Did that impact your editing decisions at all knowing that was in the background?

I was really keen on that. You know, Netflix is a worldwide service, and I didn't want to bring a whole new audience to her Facebook [which is still active] for them to fall down the same trap of victim-shaming. So instead, I needed to address it. . . . People will look at a victim and pick her apart to see if we can find something in her personality that drove somebody to kill her.

That's only something ever levied against female victims. With Chris, you'll find so much reporting on his good qualities. Then with Shanann, you will find ways to pick her apart. And I think it's really important that we address that in the film  highlight that  because that's not the place we want the audience to go. I want them to remember that she was a woman who loved her children, and not to pick her apart and try to shame her for anything that she really doesn't deserve.

At the very end of the documentary, you include some statistics about domestic violence. Were you familiar with those statistics coming into the film, or is it something that you discovered in the midst of editing?

The "family annihilation" statistic I discovered during filmmaking because we wanted to look into Chris and find out how likely is what he did. Is this a completely unique occurrence? And domestic violence is actually increasing, especially with the lockdown.

Family annihilators are a certain type of killer. People report about what their wife was life  whether she was leaving him, whether she was having an affair, whether they were having financial issues. They are always looking for the trigger. Whereas, really, it's just about that man's image, his own personal self-image and how he deals with his own toxic masculinity and not what his partner does, because otherwise we are all in danger. These are everyday situations that people around the world deal with without resorting to murdering their family.

Statistics show that he's not only in a large group  and growing group  of men who do this, but the statistics show that it's most frequently a white male in his 30s that commits the crime on a Sunday in August.

That was Chris, though he committed this in the early hours of Monday, but he's to type.

So, I watch and cover a lot of true crime stuff. I've seen things that are definitely gorier than "American Murder," or perhaps seem more dark on the surface, but this documentary affected me emotionally in a way I wasn't expecting. It was this visceral sickness that I think came from the dichotomy of Chris' disgusting crime and how "normal" his life seemed. How were you emotionally affected by putting this documentary together?

I mean, it's heartbreaking. I was heartbroken when I first read the story, then it only gets worse when you see even more photos and videos. That was every day for five months of my life, looking at Cece and Bella and this perfect, perfectly happy, relatable, normal American family. They're so very alive in all these videos. One day we're editing those, and the next day, you're listening over and over again to Chris' confession. So it was an emotional film to make and, as a mother myself, it's just inconceivable that this is what he chose to do.

He likes to say in his confession that he thinks he "snapped," but he's not a credible witness. He was shown to lie for five weeks, he lied long before [the Monday he killed Shanann and his daughters]. I don't believe his confession . . . I believe that this was premeditated, that he knew he was going to do this.

"American Murder: The Family Next Door" is now streaming on Netflix.

https://youtu.be/ep8iKiQNSrY

Related Articles
By Robin Emmott, Sabine Siebold and Jan Strupczewski

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - EU leaders broke a diplomatic deadlock on Friday and imposed sanctions on Belarus after hours of summit talks, assuring Cyprus that the bloc would also punish Turkey if it continues oil and gas drilling in disputed areas of the Mediterranean.

The deal on sanctions against about 40 officials accused of rigging August's presidential election in Belarus means the EU can make good on a promise to support pro-democracy protesters in Minsk and regain some credibility after weeks of delays.

"The European Union is taking action against those who stand in the way of democracy," German Chancellor Angela Merkel said after fraught discussions among the 27 EU member states that dragged past midnight. "I think that is an important signal."

While Britain and Canada have imposed sanctions on Minsk to show support for pro-democracy demonstrations there, the impasse in the EU, where decisions are taken by unanimity, has dented the credibility of the bloc's foreign policy, diplomats say.

Cyprus, one of the EU's smallest countries, had blocked the action against Belarus for a month, insisting that sanctions also be imposed on its neighbour Turkey for oil and gas exploration along the coast of the Mediterranean island.

Germany pushed back against a tough stand on Turkey, fearing it would disrupt efforts to cool tensions with EU member Greece.

Turkey, both a candidate to join the EU and a member of NATO, has slid towards authoritarianism under President Tayyip Erdogan but remains a strategically located partner that the EU cannot ignore.

In a sign that the diplomatic stand-off is easing at least between Athens and Ankara, NATO announced on Thursday that the two alliance members had set up a "military de-confliction mechanism" to avoid accidental clashes at sea.

'CLEAR SANCTIONS THREAT'

The compromise struck at the summit that satisfied Cyprus was an agreement to review Turkey's behaviour in December and impose sanctions then if its "provocations" have not stopped.

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"The EU issues a clear threat of sanctions against Turkey should it continue to violate international law," Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz said on Twitter after the meeting.

European Council President Charles Michel described it as a "double strategy" towards Ankara, offering closer relations on trade and other fronts but holding out the threat of sanctions if it fails to de-escalate tensions in the Mediterranean.

"It was the most that Merkel would bear," said an EU diplomat after the talks. "She felt the Union should give Turkey a chance for another few weeks. But Turkey has been put on notice and the ball is in its court."

(Additional reporting by John Chalmers and Philip Blenkinsop in Brussels; Writing by Robin Emmott and John Chalmers. Editing by Gerry Doyle)
No one enjoys hearing bad news. In fact, some people dislike bad news so much they will do anything to block it out.

Enter ancient Israel around the early 600s/late 500s BC. They had a strong inkling that they would get taken over by the Babylonians, as many of their prophets, like Jeremiah and Ezekiel, more than hinted at their imminent ransack and capture to this global super power.

But Israel didnt like receiving that bit of information. So they turned to people who had positive messages instead: the prophets who would say that Israel would enter a time of prosperity and wealth soon (Jeremiah 23:16). Many went as far to claim from receiving visions or a divine word to prove their prophecies rang true.

As history dictates, their prophecies never came to fruition.

In this article, well explain the context of the times when false prophets appear in the Old Testament. Then well highlight what both the Old and New Testament say about false prophets and how we can keep an eye out for deceivers today.

Where Did These False Prophets Come from?

False prophets usually didnt appear unless a number of tragedies or less-than-pleasant events had occurred. Long story short, Israel had gotten itself into a rut. It had evil kings, chased after other gods, went as far as committing child sacrifice, and they also trusted in other foreign superpowers such as Egypt rather than placing their trust in the Lord.

Israel had been split into two kingdoms earlier. The first, the Northern Kingdom, got taken into captivity by a vicious group known as the Assyrians in 722 BC. The Southern Kingdom, seeing this, began to grow uneasy for their own fate.

For 130 years, nothing of significance happened, but they did feel the strain of the Babylonians demolishing other nations. Not to mention, their own kings couldnt seem to maintain good relations with this kingdom.

Worried they may have a similar fate to that of the Northern kingdom, they tuned into some sources, false prophets, that assured them of the opposite would happen.

They would not only spout lies but would say they did so in the Lords name (Jeremiah 14:14, Zechariah 10:2).

Although the true prophets of God warned against listening to these deceivers, many people, including Israels kings, didnt want to hear the truth. Instead, they endorsed the false information, which led them to a rather brutal siege and takeover of the Babylonians.

What Does the Bible Say about False Prophets?

Both the Old and New Testament have a great deal to say about false prophets. Well highlight some verses below and discuss some of the distinguishing characteristics of these wolves in sheeps clothing.

Jeremiah 23:16 Thus says the Lord of hosts: Do not listen to the words of the prophets who prophesy to you, filling you with vain hopes. They speak visions of their own minds, not from the mouth of the Lord.

Matthew 7:15 Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.

Matthew 24:24 For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect.

2 Timothy 4:3 For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions.

For more verses on false prophets, click here.





Photo credit: Unsplash/Ben White

These passages make several factors abundantly clear. First, in order for a false prophet to succeed, we need people who crave information, no matter how false (see the 2 Timothy verse). If people want to continue to live in sin, they will choose a message that best suits their narrative. Therefore, they will listen to a false prophet.

Second, false prophets will not only claim divine visions and words, but they have the ability to perform signs and miracles.

Because they have Satan on their side, they will be able to wield a certain amount of supernatural power. A miracle or sign does not always mean God was behind it.

Third, they do not speak from Scripture. Most of the time you can compare their words with the Bible and see the two messages do not align.

What Can We Learn about False Prophets Today?

In our society, when we receive a bombardment of negativity on social media and in the news. A part of us does want to escape the trials and the difficulty. We cry out Marantha!, and hope Jesus will appear soon.

No matter where we fall on the dispensationalism spectrum, we also have to be wary of messages about evading tough times on earth or messages that prosperity is coming our way soon. God does provide, and God does bless, but we also need to analyze the sources in which we hear these messages.

We also have to avoid something known as toxic positivity culture. This culture promotes only the sharing of positive messages. It has seeped into the church in such a way that teachers and preachers will avoid more heavy topics such as original sin and hell, among others, simply to appease the crowd.

Christianity is full of mercy and grace, but we cannot forget Gods judgment and wrath. Not because he wants to lord it over us like some threat. He does not. But we need to remember this because we cannot truly understand the nature of salvation unless we grasp how far we have fallen.

False prophets will promote narratives of prosperity, positivity, and human self-reliance. Think back to the Israelite kingdom just before the Babylonian invasion. False prophets told them if they just relied on the Egyptians (humans) they would prevail over Babylon. That didnt happen.

Finally, whenever weve encountered what seems like a false prophet, we need to compare their words with Scripture. It doesnt matter if they claim to have divine visions or if they appear to heal others or do miracles. If their messages does not agree with that of the Bible, we must reject their teachings.

False prophets like to prey on us when we feel most vulnerable. When the world has plunged into a scary place and we want a way out is when a deceiver will appear on the scene.

Stay vigilant, dear friends, as we approach the End of Days. Scripture says many false prophets will arise during those times.

Related articles

Keep an Eye Out for These Signs of a False Prophet

What Is a Prophet?

Why Does Ezekiel Prophecy to a Valley of Dry Bones?

Photo credit: Getty Images/disquis

Hope Bolinger is a multi-published novelist and a graduate of Taylor University's professional writing program. More than 1,200 of her works have been featured in various publications ranging from Writer's Digest to Keys for Kids. She has worked for various publishing companies, magazines, newspapers, and literary agencies and has edited the work of authors such as Jerry B. Jenkins and Michelle Medlock Adams. Her modern-day Daniel trilogy is out with IlluminateYA. She is also the co-author of the Dear Hero duology, which was published by INtense Publications. And her inspirational adult romance Picture Imperfect releases in November of 2021. Find out more about her at her website.
A drug-sniffing dog discovered 24 pounds of cocaine worth some $600,000 as well as $125,000 in cash behind a bathroom vanity in a Bronx apartment, leading to the arrest of three men, according to local and federal authorities.

Balu, the K-9 with the Port Authority Police, was deployed by cops to a two-bedroom apartment at 1500 Popham Avenue in Morris Heights on September 3, according to an indictment which was unsealed by federal authorities on Wednesday.

During the search, the dog led agents to an area near the bathroom sink.

Agents then discovered some 24 pounds of cocaine and cash behind the vanity and medicine cabinet, according to the New York Post.

Investigators said the packages of cocaine were labeled with a Chinese dragon stamp.

Federal, state, and local law enforcement officials said some 12 kilograms of cocaine were recovered from a Bronx apartment on September 3

According to an indictment unsealed on Wednesday, drug traffickers took great pains to conceal the cocaine as well as some $125,000 in cash. The recovered contraband is seen above hidden in dry wall of an apartment in the Bronx

Drug enforcement agents said the wholesale value of the seized cocaine is around $600,000

Prosecutors said the street value of cocaine and other illegal narcotics have spiked due to a decreased supply caused by the travel restrictions imposed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic

The cocaine and cash were discovered by Balu, the drug-sniffing K-9 with the Port Authority Police

Authorities also discovered more than 100 pills and a makeshift pill press.

The drug raid resulted in the arrest and indictment of alleged trafficker Cesar Chavez and two other co-conspirators - his nephew, Cristian Rodriguez Chavez, and Roberto Javier-Batista.

Earlier in the summer, state and federal investigators began surveilling the apartment on Popham Avenue in the Bronx as part of a drug trafficking investigation.

Agents with the US Drug Enforcement Administration and the New York State Police monitored Chavezs movements, according to the DEA.

On several occasions, Chavez was seen entering and leaving the apartment building with a bag.

On September 3, Chavez was seen leaving the building along with Javier-Batista. Chavez was allegedly carrying a brick-shaped package wrapped in plastic.

The packages of cocaine were labeled with the symbol of a Chinese dragon (as seen above)

Chavez then got into the drivers seat of a car and the two men drove off.

A short time later, as state police tried to stop the vehicle, Javier-Batista allegedly got out of the car and fled on foot with the suspicious package.

Chavez, who was still in the drivers seat, drove off.

Later that same evening, Chavez was seen getting into a car driven by his nephew, Cristian Rodriguez Chavez.

Moments later, Javier-Batista then entered the rear of the same vehicle while carrying a package that looked similar to the brick-shaped item that he was allegedly seen with earlier in the day.

State police stopped the car and saw Javier-Batista allegedly trying to push the package under the drivers seat.

Investigators recovered the package and had its contents examined in a lab. Authorities said the lab confirmed that the package contained a kilogram of cocaine.

Agents then conducted a search of the apartment, where they say they discovered large quantities of cash as well as 12 kilograms of cocaine.

Investigators said that Chavez went to great lengths to conceal the cocaine because of their inflated value, which is due in large part to the shortage of supplies.

According to the DEA, the $600,000 wholesale value of the seized cocaine is indicative of the highly inflated prices of narcotics during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Travel restrictions put in place by New York City and the state to get the virus under control have also hampered narcotics trafficking, according to the government.

Since the pandemic hit this past spring, wholesale prices for cocaine have skyrocketed by as much as 72 per cent per kilogram.

Before the pandemic, one kilogram of cocaine would have cost somewhere between $25,000 and $35,000.

Now, the same quantity of cocaine costs some $48,000.

Federal, state, and local law enforcement arrested three alleged drug traffickers after conducting weeks of surveillance operations outside a two-bedroom apartment at 1500 Popham Avenue in the Morris Heights section of the Bronx (above)

As traffickers navigate COVID-impacted drug markets, their drug stashes are more valuable and their concealment methods more necessary, as evident in this investigation, said DEA Special Agent in Charge Ray Donovan.

I applaud our law enforcement partners on their diligent work and their efforts in safeguarding our nation from the perils of drug use and abuse.

The conduct charged in this case is brazen, Special Narcotics Prosecutor Bridget G. Brennan said.

The defendants alleged cocaine business flourished as the Bronx and the rest of New York City struggled with devastation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

After evading police, the defendants immediately returned to the scene of the crime, where agents and investigators were waiting.

The recovery of $125,000 in cash and cocaine worth more than a half million dollars from an apartment in Morris Heights will put a dent in their high level trafficking operation.'
The Department is Education is reviewing the latest set of proposals for a badly needed expansion of capacity in secondary school education in Portarlington.

Fianna Fail Senator Fiona OLoughlin said in a statement she has been updated by the Minister for Education Norma Foley on the progress of plans for Colaiste Iosagain in the Laois Offaly town. She said the Taoiseach Micheal Martin knows the shortcomings with the school first had having visited with Sen O'Loughlin last year.

A number of options and plans have already been through the Department of Education. At present, the school is heavily reliant on prefabs to accommodate more than 1,000 students. The latest proposal involved the building of a new extension or the preferred choice of complete new schools.

Minister Foley has given me an update on the project which is currently at end-stage of Stage 1 of architectural planning; entailing preliminary site surveys, location suitability and initial sketch scheme," said Sen O'Loughlin.

The Stage 1 report has just been received by the Education Department. Upon review, the Department will then be in contact with the school and its design team with regard to the further progression of the project. I`m really pleased that the process is moving forward.

I remain committed to working with school management, staff and parents to progress through the next stage of detailed design, costings, planning and preparation of tender documentation, she said.

Sen O'Loughlin said the Taoiseach knows what is needed.

An Taoiseach Micheal Martin saw the building for himself when I brought him to visit the area in February last year and we are both aware that the preferred option is to go for a new build on a different location on the same site, with capacity for 1300 students. This will be future-proofed for the provision of more second level students as the population of Portarlington continues to grow," she said.

The former Kildare South TD said Portarlington should get a new school soon.

The Colaiste Iosagain school community has waited for too long for a bigger, better equipped school building and I look forward to works starting in the not too distant future, concluded Senator OLoughlin.

It is more than six years since the first proposals were submitted for Colaiste Iosagain.
Joe Biden (left) and Donald Trump. (AP Photo/File)

The 2020 US elections are being followed keenly in India, as they are in many other parts of the world. Indias direct stakes in the outcome are relatively minor. Both major party candidates  Republican Donald Trump and Democrat Joe Biden  have indicated a willingness to improve relations with New Delhi, although with different areas of emphasis. Trumps visit to India in February left a positive impression. Biden himself described the US-India relationship as a special bond and committed to continue standing with India in confronting the threats it faces in its own region and along its border. He has also committed to working with India to expand trade, tackle global challenges such as the climate crisis, and strengthen democracy.

The indirect implications of the election for India, however, might be more significant. After all, the election outcome will affect US foreign policy, such as relations with China, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran. India would like to see the US take a tougher position against its regional adversaries, China and Pakistan. It would also ideally seek a more favourable outcome in negotiations with the Taliban in Afghanistan, as well as exemptions from Iran-related sanctions. Beyond strategic affairs, the US election could also influence its economic and social policies, including trade, immigration, climate change, and democratic cooperation. India would naturally prefer more favourable terms of engagement on these issues.

However, one area of particular concern to India relates to future US policy to Russia.

New Delhi continues to have a strong relationship with Moscow. The centrepiece is the defence relationship, with Russia remaining the largest provider of arms to India and a critical partner in a number of license-produced and jointly-developed weapons systems. Additional cooperation extends to the civilian nuclear sector and space, including Indias fledgling manned spaceflight programme.

Trade had increased somewhat prior to the Coronavirus pandemic (although from a modest base), while India had committed to increase investment in the Russian Far East. Finally, India-Russia relations have extended to multilateral affairs and global governance, including such forums as BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.

Meanwhile, US relations with Russia remain strained. Although only 18 percent of Americans have a favourable impression of Russia, there are partisan divergences: only 35 percent of Republicans view Russia as a threat, as opposed to 65 percent of Democrats. Despite Trumps apparent willingness to engage with Moscow, a combination of such political factors, the proceedings of Trumps impeachment, assorted Russian actions, and the predispositions of national security policymakers in Washington have ensured that relations remain fraught.

Other developments have contributed further to tensions. The US and Russia support rival factions in Syria. The United States abrogation of the INF Treaty has further set back cooperation on arms control. The United States has criticised Germanys continued commitment to the Nord Stream 2 pipeline. These contrasting attitudes to Moscow between New Delhi and Washington  coming at a time of greater India-US bonhomie  remains a source of some friction, although the extent and significance might sometimes be exaggerated.

In part, these differences are a natural consequence of the relationship between India and the United States becoming closer. Today, the United States is Indias most important economic partner, if trade in services and goods, investment, research and development, education, people-to-people links, and corporate relations are taken into consideration. India also sees in the United States an important strategic partnership, whether in terms of regional coordination, military operations in the maritime sphere, or defence technology.

For its part, Washington sees in India a growing economy with largely congruent interests in Asia. These realities imply some contradictions in the US-India-Russia triangle, further complicated by the three parties relations with other actors, such as China, Pakistan, Europe, and Japan.

India has made it clear that its relationship with Russia will remain independent of US policy, encapsulated in the agreement to procure the S-400 air defence system. In the face of Indias insistence, the US Congress has created some legislative wiggle room to exempt India (and other partners) from resulting sanctions, conscious that the implications of sanctioning India for its relationship with Russia would be to the long-term detriment of US strategic interests. However, the legislation does not allow for an open-ended waiver, and must be approved on a case-by-case basis.

US policymakers have drawn a distinction between India and Turkey (which is also acquiring the S-400) by highlighting Indias past relationship with Russia and current defence acquisition trends. While the situation at present could be seen as part of a successful Indian attempt at balancing its relationship with both countries, it has also injected a degree of uncertainty in ties with Washington.

Overall, from New Delhis vantage point, a more accommodating approach by the United States towards other countries engagement with Russia would be ideal. However, should he win this Novembers election, the administration of Democrat Joe Biden will be wary, at least initially. Public sentiment and other points of difference between Washington and Moscow are likely to remain, and there is little political appetite for a reset, a term associated today with the failure of post-2009 engagement.

However, equally, it is unclear whether a second Trump administration will have much more latitude, particularly if the Democrats secure majorities in both houses of the US Congress. India may be left with little choice but to continue making the strategic case for its Russia relationship to Washington, trusting that it would result in more flexible outcomes. In this effort, it will not be alone, with other US partners in Asia (notably Vietnam and Indonesia) also seeking to preserve defence relations with Moscow while improving their ties with Washington.

At the same time, Indias efforts to preserve the primacy of its partnership with Russia would be made much easier should Russia pay more heed to certain Indian concerns that are distinct from Washingtons. Such Indian concerns relate to Moscows more accommodating approach to the Taliban in Afghanistan, its resistance to the Indo-Pacific strategic concept (as articulated by foreign minister Sergey Lavrov at the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi this year), its willingness to engage in high-technology military commerce (including ballistic missile defence) with China, and its nascent defence cooperation with Pakistan. Some notional commitments reportedly made during Defence Minister Rajnath Singhs recent visit to Moscow offer a promising signal. However, regardless of the US election outcome, greater Russian sensitivities to Indian concerns on these and similar issues will be vital to preserving a robust India-Russia partnership in a period of greater strategic flux.

(This appeared in the ORF).
Alphabet's Google plans to pay $1 billion to publishers globally for their content over the next three years, its CEO said on Thursday, a move that could help it win over a powerful group amid heightened regulatory scrutiny worldwide.

News publishers have long fought the world's most popular internet search engine for compensation for using their content, with European media groups leading the charge.

CEO Sundar Pichai said the new product called Google News Showcase will launch first in Germany, where it has signed up German newspapers including Der Spiegel, Stern, Die Zeit, and in Brazil with Folha de S.Paulo, Band and Infobae.

The product will be rolled out in Belgium, India, the Netherlands and other countries. About 200 publishers in Argentina, Australia, Britain, Brazil, Canada and Germany have signed up to the product.

"This financial commitment - our biggest to date - will pay publishers to create and curate high-quality content for a different kind of online news experience," Pichai said in a blog post.

The product, which allows publishers to pick and present their stories, will launch on Google News on Android devices and eventually on Apple devices.

"This approach is distinct from our other news products because it leans on the editorial choices individual publishers make about which stories to show readers and how to present them," Pichai said.

The product builds on a licensing deal inked to some media groups in Australia, Brazil and Germany in June, which drew a lukewarm response from the European Publishers Council.

Google is negotiating with French publishers, among its most vocal critics, while Australia wants to force it and Facebook to share advertising revenue with local media groups.

Google's funding for news organisations has frustrated other internet publishers, such as weather websites and recipe tools, which say Google has hurt their revenue.
On a number of occasions this column has focused on confidence games and people victimized by them. Remember the grandparents scam? How about the jury-duty scam? Or the IRS or the electric shut-off scams?

Those relied on the telephone, and would nick victims to the tune of hundreds of or a few thousand dollars.

Recently I heard about another even more sophisticated venture in thievery and trickery  the work-at-home scam. Jeff Walke, a military veteran and retired worker from Volvo, gave me the rundown on that.

In a number of ways, the work-at-home scam differs from the aforementioned swindles. Ones the scale  its left Walke, 60, and his wife, Tina, fearful they could lose their home in the town of Pulaski.

Another is the way the tricksters contact their victims. In Walkes case, that happened not on the telephone but via a message on social media.

Finally, Walke told me he had to undergo training, to learn how to perform the procedures the con artist wanted him to do.

The training lasted a week, Walke said. He added that he wasnt paid for that.

It all began this past spring, in the end-of-May, beginning-of-June time frame. Walke said he received a message on the business/social media website LinkedIn. Its similar to Facebook but focused around jobs and careers.

The scammer claimed to be an American executive for an actual oil company thats based in South Korea. The company needed someone in the U.S. to handle some billing for them, the executive said.

My heat pump was going out, Walke said. I needed some extra income.

Walke approached the offer with a certain degree of skepticism. He searched online for the name of the company and found its website. I did, too  and found pages written mostly in Hangul, South Koreas alphabet.

Its hard to tell if the site I found is real, or if it was created for scamming purposes. Heres a bit of the jargon-laced gobbledygook I translated from one page using Google Translate:

[The company] has established an investment roadmap as a concrete measure for achieving Vision 2025 in the rapidly changing energy market and realizing sustainable growth. We are striving to discover growth engines. We are maximizing the ability to generate stable profits necessary for the development of future growth engines by securing the industrys best competitiveness by strengthening the refinery business, the companys core business.

Walke also found the names of the executive and others he dealt from the oil company listed on its LinkedIn page. One was a man whose first name is Milton. Another is a woman whose first name is Amber. Again, I could not determine if that page is legitimate or not.

The company in question has a Wikipedia page  but anybody with an internet connection can write one of those. There also are pages about the company on websites for Dun & Bradstreet, Bloomberg Markets and Forbes. Those pages appear legit.

Anyway, Walke was told the company was in the process of completing a building project in the United States, and it needed people like Walke to handle some invoicing. It would supply Walke with the information necessary to generate those bills.

To Walke, the endeavor looked legit, and the executive sounded sincere.

I even have diagrams for the building they were building, Walke told me. The company sent him those. And when the executive learned that Walke was religious, he requested Walke pray for [the executives] son, hes got COVID, Walke said.

I would print out bills and send invoices, Walke said. Everything went fine for a couple of weeks.

Some of the companies to which Walke sent invoices actually paid them, and Walke transferred the money as directed, minus his 7% fee. He told me he did that via the accounting software QuickBooks.

But some other invoices generated complaints the bills were fraudulent. Thats when Walke called police in the town of Pulaski.

Soon Walke was talking to a Detective R.E. Riddle from the Pulaski Police Department.

Riddle told me this thing is big. Its in many, many states, Walke said.

Riddles superior, Pulaski Police Lt. Mike Hudson, told me: We were investigating it and realized its over our heads  Its actually so big of a case that we forwarded it to the FBI in Miami, Florida. Thats where it appears the money Walke was forwarding was heading, Hudson said.

Walke, was doing what he was told to do. He did nothing wrong, Hu dson told me. Walke said Riddle told him he might ultimately be liable for the roughly $1,800 he made processing the invoices.

All of this happened this past spring. But more recently, Walke said, hes been getting threatened with a lawsuit if he didnt repay roughly $29,750 he had forwarded to the scammers. Walke said he consulted an attorney in Roanoke but decided not to hire the lawyer because Walke couldnt afford the legal fees.

Im worried the same people are trying to scam [Walke] again, Hudson told me. It sounded that way to me, too. I told Walke not to pay anybody anything, especially before they filed a lawsuit.

James Marshall, a spokesman for the FBI in Miami, said he could neither confirm nor deny an investigation was underway.

Unfortunately, work-from-home scams are prevalent, Marshall wrote in an email.

And it sounds like theyre potentially even more costly than the grandparents scam, or jury-duty scam, the IRS scam or the electric shut-off scam.

Consider yourself forewarned.

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Seeking to allay concerns of farmers over a new set of legislations amid continuing protests by some parties, Union minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday assured the farm community that the MSP (minimum support price) will not only stay, but it will also be continuously increased too in coming years.

He also assured that no one can claim ownership of farmers' land in lieu of contract farming and said there are enough measures in the legislations to safeguard the interests of farmers.

Opposition parties have alleged that farmers would be left at the mercy of corporates under the new laws, which have come into effect after the passage of three key bills in the recent monsoon session of Parliament.

Hitting out at the Congress and other opposition parties, Singh said they are trying to create misunderstandings about the farm bills passed by Parliament.

He also attacked the Congress for the burning of a tractor by protesters from their youth wing.

"A tractor was burnt. What is its logic? As weapons are sacred and respectable for soldiers, similarly tractors are to farmers. And I know this being a farmer, in any eventuality farmer will never burn his tractor. This was done by a political party for its political interest," he said.

The Congress' youth wing activists on Monday had set a tractor ablaze near India Gate in the national capital, a few hundred metres from the Rashtrapati Bhavan and Parliament, to protest the contentious farm laws.

Talking to a select group of journalists, the defence minister said, "Being a farmer's son myself, I want to make it clear that the Modi government will never do anything that is not in the interest of farmers. And these agriculture-related bills are for economic and social empowerment of farmers."

Singh also accused the Opposition of creating a misunderstanding among people about the minimum support price mechanism and the mandi system and categorically said that both will stay.

"I want to assure farmers that the MSP will stay and rather it will be continuously increased in the coming years, in any case, it will not be abolished," he said adding that MSP in oil seeds and pulses increased by 23 times during the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance government.

On amendment in the APMC Act, Rajnath said the government is not ending the mandi system and rather it is giving more options to farmers to sell their produce including at more mandis.

He also said that at times farmers were charged taxes and did not get the right MSP in mandis, but the new law will provide them more options to sell their produce.

Talking about contract farming, Singh said enough provisions have been made in the new law to safeguard the interests of farmers.

Farmers will get the price of their produce as decided by them in the contract, and sufficient provisions have been incorporated to ensure that the price does not go below the contracted rate, he said.

Singh further said if prices of their produce rise at a later stage, farmers will also get proportionately higher payments.

Accusing the Opposition of creating misapprehensions about the new law that it poses a threat to farmers' land, Singh said, "No power, in any case, can claim ownership of farmers' land using this bill. Enough measures have been made to safeguard the interests of farmers."

Underlining that all agriculture-related legislations are meant for the social and economic empowerment of farmers, Singh appealed to farmers and their organisation to come and talk to him to clear any misgivings.

"I appeal to all farmers' organisations that if they have any issue please come and talk with us. We are ready to listen to their suggestions for the welfare of farmers. I have already started talking to farmers organisations to clear misgivings and misconceptions," he said.

The government has been under attack from the Opposition for the passage of three farms bill in the recently held monsoon session of Parliament.

The government presented these bills as pro-farmers, saying these will ensure that farmers get better prices for their produce and do not get subjected to regulations of 'mandis'. It has also said that farmers will be now free to sell their produce to anyone and these legislations will increase competition and promote private investment, which will help in the development of farm infrastructure and generate employment.

However, opposition parties have slammed the bills as "anti-farmers", claiming that the agriculture sector will be left to the fate of corporate interests.

President Ram Nath Kovind has already given assent to the three farm bills -- The Farmers'' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill, 2020, The Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020 and The Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill, 2020.
India on Thursday strongly rejected Pakistan's criticism of the acquittal of all the 32 accused in the demolition case, saying it may be difficult for the neighbouring country, having a "coercive apparatus", to understand the ethos of democracy and rule of law.

Foreign Office on Wednesday condemned the acquittal of the accused in the case and urged the Indian government to ensure safety, security and protection of the minorities, particularly the Muslims and their places of worship.

"India is a mature democracy where the government and people abide by the verdicts of the court and show respect for the rule of law," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said at an online media briefing while replying to a question on Pakistan's reaction to the ruling.

"It may be difficult for a system with a coercive apparatus where people and the courts can be silenced at will of the establishment to understand such a democratic ethos," he added.

All the 32 accused in the Babri mosque demolition case, including BJP veterans L K Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi, were on Wednesday acquitted by a special CBI court in Lucknow which said there was no conclusive proof against them.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
KAMPALA  Makerere University Business School (MUBS) principal Prof Wasswa Balunywa has said that government has not put in place a proper career guidance framework to help learners make informed choices on careers.

Prof Balunywa while speaking at virtual seminar themed Corona Virus and Careers: Who is in, who is out? Organised by the MUBS Career and Skills Development Centre today said it is important that government rethinks what the future is going to be like and change the education system.

At times its not what you wish but the exams tell you so. For students to be able to be taken into a program at the University, they may be able to be taken into a program that they are not aware of and this means that as they grow up, there is some kind of limitation to what career they should undertake in a sense that they are fixed into the career, he said.

Balunywa added that students get into University knowing they are really doing different courses like commerce, accounting, or may be marketing and they get stuck in there.

He explained that people need to recognise that changes are taking place in the environment and these are going to lead to career changes.

There are a few people who normally finish their degrees and abandon that field and go on to do something different from what they studied but invariably many of us pursue careers not because we like them but because we are fixed in. This is a challenge and it will continue for some time but what we need to realise is that the pandemic has changed many things creating chaos in its footpath and right now this is an example of what is happening in the wake of careers.

Dr Ahmed Walugembe the deputy director MUBS Career and Skills Development Center said in the career concept it is always important that one surely understands what is embedded in the profession they wish to undertake and how they can do better while at it.

You have to understand a career, carer planning, process and concepts plus the key success factors. The pandemic has presented a new normal of doing things and the impact of the virus on careers has been really felt. People are now looking at skills and jobs in a manner of what is trending and what is phasing out, he said

Walugembe explained that the concept of a career is developing a vision and goals for an individual and how to achieve them which involves the role one undertakes throughout their life, matching their interests, skills and abilities for both in the long term professional journey or continuous process of learning and development.

Corona virus has greatly impacted on career in a number of ways ranging from decline in economic activity, reduction in office operations, to the quality and quantity of employment that is going down. There is increased demand for e-learning, the need to work in shifts has also been created which has given rise to increased remote working. There is need to reskill and reposition, increased need for knowledge based professions and a change in customer supplier inseparable operations has been created, he shared.

Ms Jalia Nazziwa, the MUBS Guild Education Minister said this COVID era has been a window of opportunity as the lockdown presented a time of reflection to her.

She says people were asking her if what she would be able to get a job in the field she studies, a thing that tormented her as it was not the time to for her to start switching careers.

I was not easy, we had to break off from school and it was uncertain on when we would return. My career goal of finishing and earning this degree in International Business on time seemed not to be happening anytime soon. I am sure most people especially the finalists felt the same way, she shares.

After making a self-rediscovery, Nazziwa remembered that she was computer illiterate and decided to embark on this to keep herself busy and gaining a skill at the same time.

I decided that if I have a laptop that was enough for me to start using YouTube videos to learn computer knowledge and upgrade my IT skills to make myself more ready for my career. I also got an opportunity to volunteer in hotels, which helped me to learn how businesses are run. The pandemic showed me that you have to have an idea on different things so that if one closes, you have knowledge on another as being versatile is key.

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Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr. started his tenure as chair of a House subcommittee by demanding that Internal Revenue Service Commissioner Charles Rettig release President Donald Trumps income tax returns and then testify before his panel.

In a letter to Rettig, the new chair of the House Ways and Means oversight subcommittee told the commissioner to meet the legally binding request for Donald Trumps business and personal tax returns which you have been illegally withholding from the Ways and Means Committee for the last 540 days.

He also asked the commissioner to testify before his committee later this month for a hearing focusing on IRS operations and tax compliance, including looking at a New York Times investigation into Trumps tax returns.

The Times said it obtained Trumps personal and business tax returns spanning more than two decades and discovered that he paid no federal income taxes in 11 of 18 years and only $750 in his first year as president, that he has been able to reduce his taxes because many of his businesses lose money, that hundreds of millions of dollars in personal loans soon will have to be repaid, and that the IRS is questioning a $72.9 million tax refund that he claimed.

As Commissioner of the IRS, you must ensure that our tax system is unshakably supported by rigorous enforcement and that all taxpayers, including public officials, comply with the tax laws, Pascrell wrote.

You must foster trust and confidence in our tax system and tax administration. However, I fear the reported information undermines Americans' confidence in our tax system.

The IRS had no immediate comment.

Trump has pushed back against the Times reporting.

The Fake News Media, just like Election time 2016, is bringing up my Taxes & all sorts of other nonsense with illegally obtained information & only bad intent. I paid many millions of dollars in taxes but was entitled, like everyone else, to depreciation & tax credits.....  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 28, 2020

.....Financial Statements, from the time I announced I was going to run for President, showing all properties, assets and debts. It is a very IMPRESSIVE Statement, and also shows that I am the only President on record to give up my yearly $400,000 plus Presidential Salary!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 28, 2020

Pascrell, a fierce Trump foe who has led the fight to obtain Trumps tax returns, on Thursday challenged the president to release his filings to back up his claims.

To your predecessors, serving as Chief Executive was the honor of a lifetime," Pascrell wrote to Trump. "For you, however, the presidency is nothing more than another target to be looted to line your pockets with taxpayer, political donor and foreign government funds and, more egregiously, to dodge taxes. The American people deserve better.

The full Ways and Means Committee chairman, Massachusetts Democrat Richard Neal, asked for Trumps tax returns but the administration has refused to release them despite the requirements of a 1924 law. The case is now in federal court.

Pascrell recently was named subcommittee chair, succeeding the late Rep. John Lewis, D-Ga.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.

Jonathan D. Salant may be reached at jsalant@njadvancemedia.com.
ATTENTION - edited version

YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. Member of the European Parliament Charlie Weimers expressed his position on the behind-doors meeting at the European Parliament.

Emmanuel Macron has confirmed to possess facts of Turkish support to Azerbaijan by sending islamists from Syria. I will apply to the European Union External Action Service, asking if it condemned Turkeys interference in the conflict and if it considers the expulsion of Turkey from OSCE Minsk Group, the MEP wrote.

According to numerous media reports, Turkey has sent islamists from Syria to Azerbaijan ranging from 3.000 to 4.000 to fight against Artsakh. Russia, France and USA have confirmed the information.

Editing and translating by Tigran Sirekanyan
Chandigarh, Oct 1: The Congress staged protests in parts of Haryana on Thursday evening after party leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra were detained by the Uttar Pradesh Police while walking towards Hathras to meet the family of a Dalit woman who died after being allegedly gang-raped. Congress workers took out protest marches at various places, including Ambala, Sirsa, Hisar and Karnal.

Haryana Congress president Kumari Selja said the protests were held against the detention of Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi and the manner in which they were stopped from proceeding further. Earlier in the day, the vehicles of Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi were stopped on the Yamuna Expressway in Greater Noida when they were going towards Hathras. The leaders were detained for violation of prohibitory orders after they got out of the vehicles and started to walk. Around 150 Congress workers were detained as well.

Rahul Gandhi fell down in a scuffle after police tried to stop him and his supporters from proceeding on the Yamuna Expressway near the Jewar toll plaza. Commenting on the manner in which Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi were stopped from proceeding, Kumari Selja tweeted, The family which made sacrifices for the nations sake is being attacked by the BJP government." Until our last breath, we will fight for the sake of this nation," she added. The 19-year-old Dalit woman was allegedly raped by four upper-caste men in Hathras on September 14 and referred to the Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi on September 28 with spinal cord injuries, paralysis and cuts in her tongue. She died the next day.

Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor
Human Rights Defender of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) Artak Beglaryan today told reporters that there are 11 civilian victims to date.

There are more than 60 wounded persons, 42 of which, according to our records, are seriously wounded. The first four were wounded on September 27, 2 civilians were killed in Martuni, including an old person and a child. A 79-year-old woman was killed in Hadrut, and a young man was killed near the Mets Shen village of Martakert region. There was shelling in Martakert yesterday, leaving 3 elderly civilians dead, including two women and one man. Today there was targeted shelling in Martuni, as a result of which, according to preliminary data, 4 were killed, 11 were wounded, including journalists, Beglaryan said.

On September 27, an old woman was, according to Beglaryan, killed from the strike of a kamikaze unmanned aerial vehicle in her apartment in Hadrut.

From this it is assumed that civilians were targeted because if in the case of artillery there is an opportunity to deviate at a distance, strike UVSs are considered high accuracy weapons, meaning there is almost no possibility of a mistake here. This and other cases clearly show that the Azerbaijani Armed Forces are intentionally targeting civilians, which is a gross violation of international humanitarian law and moreover a war crime, the Human Rights Defender stated.

Out of the 31 cases of injuries, 23 were recorded in places of residence. According to the Ombudsman, this is an important fact from which it can be assumed that the Azerbaijani Armed Forces hadnt taken precautionary measures, as provided for by international humanitarian law.
Melbourne's night-time curfew was extended despite there being no evidence the measure would slow the rate of COVID-19 infection on its own, according to the senior health official who renewed the draconian rule.

The city's five million residents were on August 2 banned from leaving their homes between the hours of 8pm to 5am except for work, medical or care-giving reasons.

Health officials extended the curfew on September 14 but with shortened hours from 9pm to 5am.

The curfew - which was only removed on Monday evening amid a rapid decline in daily case totals - was one of a range of sweeping coronavirus restrictions brought in as part of Victoria's state of emergency powers.

Department of Health and Human Services senior medical adviser Michelle Giles admitted at a Supreme Court hearing on Thursday there was no physical evidence the policy alone reduced transmission.

Bourke Street is pictured deserted after a citywide curfew was introduced in Melbourne on August 2. The bureaucrat who signed off on the measure has admitted there was no evidence it would slow the rate of COVID-19 infection on its own

'What I say is the curfew is part of a package of directions that aim at reducing movement and interactions between people and there is evidence that reduces transmissions,' she said.

But Associate Professor Giles - who had final say on the extension while standing in as Victoria's Deputy Public Health Commander - told the court there was no proof the policy by itself would be effective.

Professor Giles also said she disagreed with the premier's assertion when the curfew was announced it would help Victoria Police enforce the lockdown.

'I actually considered the curfew in relation to public health,' she said, according to The Australian.

'I don't agree with those comments, particularly the law enforcement one.'

The Supreme Court case has been brought by Mornington Peninsula cafe owner Michelle Loielo - who is suing the government claiming COVID-19 restrictions have caused a 99 per cent drop in her revenue.

A heavy police presence is seen at the Queen Victoria Market on September 13, 2020 in Melbourne as anti-lockdown protesters organised a 'freedom walk'.

Premier Daniel Andrews said the curfew was introduced to help Victoria Police enforce lockdown restrictions - but the top bureaucrat disagreed, saying she made the decision to bring it in based on public health considerations

'Every time I see the premier, Daniel Andrews, on the television and every time I hear the premier speak, I feel a sense of dread and anxiety,' she said.

Last month, Mr Andrews said he decided to bring in the unprecedented 8pm curfew even though it was not recommended by scientists.

'That's a decision that I've made,' he said on 10 September, adding governments are 'free to go beyond' advice given to them by doctors.

The curfew, which affected metropolitan Melbourne, originally required people to stay home between 8pm and 5am

The previous day Victoria's chief health officer Brett Sutton said he did not recommend the curfew.

Ms Loielo, a Liberal Party supporter, claims the curfew violates her rights to freedom.

She says her business in Capel Sound used to bring in up to $20,000 a week in earnings.
Tibetans, Uyghurs, Kazakhs, Hongkongers, Southern Mongolians, Taiwanese, and Chinese Democracy Activists join together to call on governments to stand against the Chinese Communist Partys suppression of freedom, democracy, and human rights, in front of the United Nations headquarters in New York City on Oct. 1, 2020. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

150 Human Rights Groups Rally to Oppose Chinese Communist Partys Rule

NEW YORKMore than 150 groups in some 90 cities around the world rallied in protest of the Chinese regimes human rights abuses as it celebrated its 71st year of rule.

The global coalition on Oct. 1the anniversary of the Chinese Communist Partys takeover of China in 1949was a diverse mix of Tibetans, Hongkongers, Taiwanese, ethnic Mongolians, Uyghur Muslims, Kazakhs, and exiled Chinese dissidents, each with grievances against the regime for persecuting their communities. The suppression they faced has revealed to the world the true face of the Chinese regime: one that disregards human rights and poses threats to the world, they told The Epoch Times.

The CCP [Chinese Communist Party] cannot be given a pass, cannot be absolved of justice, just because its ruling China, said Rep. Scott Perry (R-Pa.) in a speech in front of the U.S. Capitol.

Theyre allowed to get away with oppression, concentration camps, all kinds of horrific things that you already know about, whether its the Falun Gong, whether its our friends in Mongolia, whether its taking over Tibet, he continued, referring to Beijings persecution of the ancient spiritual practice, erosion of Mongolian cultural customs, and suppression of Tibetan Buddhists, respectively.

Tibetans, Uyghurs, Kazakhs, Hongkongers, Southern Mongolians, Taiwanese, and Chinese Democracy Activists join together to call on governments to stand against the Chinese Communist Partys suppression of freedom, democracy, and human rights, in front of the United Nations headquarters in New York City on Oct. 1, 2020. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

All of it has to end, and its criminal activity that must be recognized and stood against by the whole world community, and the United States must lead, he added.

Perry introduced a bill Thursday morning to designate the CCP as a transnational organized group and eliminate sovereign immunity for Chinese officialswhich would allow them to be tried in U.S. court for criminal prosecution, according to a copy of the bill that The Epoch Times has obtained.

We must be the generation that confronts and defeats, and ends the wicked regime of the CCP, he said.

Different from the past few years, activists said they felt a newfound sense of solidarity as different groups witnessed Beijings recent authoritarian clampdown, such as the regimes proposed elimination of Mongolian-language teaching in Inner Mongolia schools, mass arrests of pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong, and repressive policies in Tibet and Xinjiang.

Pema Namgyal takes part in an event where Tibetans, Uyghurs, Kazakhs, Hongkongers, Southern Mongolians, Taiwanese, and Chinese Democracy Activists join together to call on governments to stand against the Chinese Communist Partys suppression of freedom, democracy, and human rights, in front of the United Nations headquarters in New York City on Oct. 1, 2020. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

Pema Namgyal, a 26-year-old Tibetan graduate student majoring in psychology, was among more than 150 protesters who attended a rally in front of the United Nations headquarters in New York, calling for the Chinese regime to be brought to justice.

It has nothing to do with the Chinese people personally, but the government itself, he said. Namgyal was born and raised in India, and later immigrated to New York with his parents as refugees.

Meanwhile, Rinchen Namgyal (no relation), board member of New York-based advocacy group Students for a Free Tibet, called on leaders of the free world to form a multilateral alliance to independently investigate the situation in China-occupied regions.

Rinchen Namgyal, board member at New York-based advocacy group Students for a Free Tibet, takes part in an event where Tibetans, Uyghurs, Kazakhs, Hongkongers, Southern Mongolians, Taiwanese, and Chinese Democracy Activists join together to call on governments to stand against the Chinese Communist Partys suppression of freedom, democracy, and human rights, in front of the United Nations headquarters in New York City on Oct. 1, 2020. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

Given the regimes human rights record, the United Nations should block China from participating in the Human Rights Council, he said. In April, a Chinese delegate was elected to a Council consultative group that appoints the panels human rights monitors.

Deception has characterized the CCPs 71 years of rule, said a woman who identified herself as Hongkonger A.

They say yes to everything before signing an agreement, but walk back on their promises immediately after, she said, noting the Sino-Joint Declaration that promises her homeland, a former British colony, a high degree of freedom under Chinese rule until 2047.

A woman who identifies herself as Hongkonger A takes part in an event where Tibetans, Uyghurs, Kazakhs, Hongkongers, Southern Mongolians, Taiwanese, and Chinese Democracy Activists join together to call on governments to stand against the Chinese Communist Partys suppression of freedom, democracy, and human rights, in front of the United Nations headquarters in New York City on Oct. 1, 2020. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

While her father has been telling her about the regimes evils since she was young, it was only last year, when millions in Hong Kong protested over a now-axed extradition bill, that she fully realized the extent of Beijings tyranny. The authorities speedy application of a sweeping national security law has been especially alarming, she said.

We used to have free speech, freedom of the press. Now we have nothing, she said.

Nicole Sara, an activist who lived in Hong Kong for 11 years, called Chinas National Day a day of mourning.

Nicole Sara takes part in an event where Tibetans, Uyghurs, Kazakhs, Hongkongers, Southern Mongolians, Taiwanese, and Chinese Democracy Activists join together to call on governments to stand against the Chinese Communist Partys suppression of freedom, democracy, and human rights, in front of the United Nations headquarters in New York City on Oct. 1, 2020. (Eva Fu/The Epoch Times)

As far as all these people are concerned, theres nothing to celebrate, she told The Epoch Times. Its the beginning of the devastation for many, many people.

Evil regimes come and go, she said, believing that the Chinese regime would one day collapse. One day well look back and see the stain on Chinese history.

Nicole Hao contributed to this report.

The article has been updated to reflect the latest number of participating cities.
Cardinal George Pell has been furiously heckled by a woman outside his apartment in Rome after he returned to the Italian city for the first time since his child sex abuse convictions were quashed.

The 79-year-old flew into Rome's Fiumicino airport on Wednesday and was driven to his apartment - where a woman from Melbourne was waiting to voice her disapproval of him.

'We hate you, we hate you,' she said as Pell entered the apartment building.

Australian Cardinal George Pell waves as he arrives at Rome's international airport in Fiumicino on Wednesday. The Vatican has said there is no meeting arranged between the exonerated cleric and the head of the Roman Catholic Church

A woman from Melbourne was waiting to voice her disapproval of the cardinal despite his convictions being quashed

Pell is self-isolating in the apartment and will meet with Pope Francis if he tests negative to COVID-19, 9News reported.

He may be convinced to stay in Rome until his birthday in June, it is understood.

Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni earlier said there is 'currently no meeting planned' between the cardinal and Pope Francis.

But experts on the workings of the tiny city state said a reunion between the head of the Roman Catholic Church and the man he once appointed as his trusted anti-corruption tsar was inevitable.

'He will meet Francis. He'll do it as a free man,' Italy's Repubblica newspaper said.

'It will be Pell's chance for a redress, after many in the Vatican rejoiced at his removal.'

At their last face-to-face meeting in June 2017, Pope Francis gave Pell an extended period of leave to return to Australia and clear his name, amid false accusations he molested two choirboys in the 1990s.

Pell is returning to Rome for the first time since being acquitted of sexual abuse charges in April

Pell wore a face mask but said nothing to the waiting media pack as he landed in Rome on Wednesday

Pell was convicted in December 2018 of sexually abusing the boys when he was the archbishop of Melbourne.

He strenuously denied the charges and the High Court in Australia overturned his conviction in April this year after hearing his second appeal.

The former Vatican treasurer spent more than a year in prison.

Pell arrives at his residence in Rome on Wednesday. He spent more than a year in prison before his convictions were quashed

Pell had said shortly after his release from jail he would at some point return to Rome to pack up his apartment - but planned to live in Sydney.

A Pell aide told AFP his trip to Rome was a 'private visit'.

Under coronavirus travel restrictions, Australians are barred from leaving the country except for official business or compassionate personal reasons.

The reason for Pell's exemption to leave Australia remains unclear. Australians must have compassionate personal reasons or be travelling on official business to leave the country

Cardinal George Pell (pictured in the terminal lounge wearing a full face protective shield) was whisked through a private entrance at Sydney Airport to avoid the waiting media

It was not known on what condition Pell was granted an exemption.

Pell boarded a plane bound for Rome on one of the last flights leaving Sydney International Airport on Tuesday night.

NSW Police officers are believed to have escorted Pell through the airport terminal via a lower ground entrance different to the one used by the public to avoid the waiting media, Nine News reported.
British Airways passengers have been left fuming after forking out thousands of pounds for first and business class tickets, only to be served 'disappointing' sandwiches for their in-flight meals.

Disgruntled customers say the airline blamed new Covid-19 regulations for the 'embarrassing' snacks, which they believe are the result of 'cost cutting'.

Among those to complain was Rafal Smaszcz, 42, who flew from London Heathrow to Frankfurt on a 520 flight on 18 September.

First and business class ticket holders on BA flights are being served 'embarrassing' and 'pathetic' sandwiches for their inflight meals

Disgruntles Rafal Smaszcz (pictured) took to Twitter to question whether BA thought it was acceptable to serve a 'greasy sandwich in a crumpled brown bag' as a business class meal

He shared a photo of his 'greasy' sandwich served in a crumpled paper bag on Twitter, writing: 'We all know about Covid and certain restrictions, but if you charge for business class ticket same as before lockdown do you really think that this can be acceptable to serve as a business class meal?'

Speaking today, he added: 'I was in disbelief. Honestly, a sandwich bought on Ryanair flight off the trolley looks better.

'The brown bag was tatty and with oily stains and the sandwich looked like it was squashed.

'I understand that Coronavirus puts certain limitations on food operation but this is taking advantage yet charging standard business class prices.'

Stewart Cunningham from Aberdeen had a similar complaint after shelling out 420 for his London to Warsaw flight on Friday [25 Sep].

He shared a similar photo of his 'below standard' chicken sandwich and complained to the airline.

Speaking today, the 35-year-old said: 'I thought it was quite frankly embarrassing for the crew to have to serve a sandwich which came in a brown bag covered in the grease.

'Their aim to protect passengers against COVID is laudable and their aircraft are much cleaner.

'However, when you see the cabin crew prepare hot meals for the pilots served on proper plates with proper cutlery, it does make you wonder why, if a full service is fine for flight crew, it isn't for paying passengers.'

The inflight meals have been blasted by passengers as being 'disgraceful'. Joe Schofield shared this image on Twitter and wrote that lunch served on BA business class flights was 'truly a thing to marvel at'

Tim Martz, whose First Class flight from Split, Croatia to Los Angeles cost in excess of 11,000 had to bring his own 'DIY' plate onboard (above)

Joe Schofield also shared images showing his meal during a business class flight on Sunday [27 Sep], claiming it consisted of: 'Two slices of white Kingsmill, decent wedge of pilgrims choice and some Branston pickle.'

He shared the sad-looking sandwich and wrote on Twitter: 'The lunch served on the British Airways business class flights these days is truly a thing to marvel at.'

Meanwhile Tim Martz, whose First Class flight from Split, Croatia to Los Angeles costs in excess of 11,000, blasted the onboard food service as 'pathetic'.

He shared photos of the 'disgraceful' sandwich he was served on 19 September, along with another hot meal he was given for the final leg of the journey.

However, Tim, who had to bring his own 'DIY' plate onboard, said BA's offerings do not hold up to other airlines' first and business class menus.

He shared photos showing the inflight meal on a recent business class journey with Lufthansa, showing how it was served complete with crisp white tablecloth and silver cutlery.

The succulent steak on a bed of creamy mash and asparagus is a far cry from the boxed sandwich he received.

Speaking today, executive Tim said: 'A boxed meal is not very First Class let alone Business Class.

First and Business class flyers have complained BA is using the Covid pandemic as an excuse to serve poor standard inflight meals

'And plastic utensils, paper napkins, plastic? Pathetic cheap champagne and even cheaper wine usually served in Business, even Economy.

'It's just an excuse to cut costs. What's worse is the BA lies and claims that the cuts are all due to Covid health restrictions. B*******. Most other airlines have not gone the disgraceful BA route.

'Lufthansa, Swiss and Air France continue to offer stellar inflight First Class service, meals, wine and drink.'

Passengers on short haul business class cabins are being be offered a pre-prepared meal, such as salad or sandwich with a selection of beverages

A spokesman for BA told Mailonline: 'We have introduced a temporary catering proposition. Customers travelling to a long haul destination will be offered pre-prepared meal boxes including dishes such as a salad, hot entree or sandwich, served with a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Snacks will also be available between meals.

'Customers travelling to a short haul destination in our business class cabin, Club Europe, will also be offered a pre-prepared meal, such as salad or sandwich with a selection of beverages.

'Those customers travelling in our economy cabin, Euro Traveller, will be offered a complimentary snack and a bottle of water.

'As we navigate our way through these unprecedented times, we will continue to take advice from relevant authorities and incorporate this into the development of our on board experience.'
The NSW-Queensland border will remain shut until at least November 1 despite NSW recording no new cases of community-transmitted COVID-19.

But with no new locally-acquired cases in NSW since September 25, and one older local case reported on Thursday, NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard urged the Queensland Premier to rethink the border closure.

NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard urged the Queensland Premier to rethink the border closure. Credit:Kate Geraghty

NSW recorded three new cases to 8pm on Wednesday. Two were in returned travellers, and one was a case health experts believe was contracted two months ago.

Mr Hazzard said politics was playing too great a part in the Queensland border closure.
Conakry, Guine (PANA) - The crackdown on protests in Guinea, including those against a change in the constitution allowing President Alpha Conde to seek a third term, has resulted in the deaths of at least 50 people in less than a year, Amnesty International said in a new report published on Thursday, two weeks ahead of the countrys presidential election
NORTH YORK, ON / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / ZTEST Electronics Inc. ("ZTEST" or the "Company") (CSE:ZTE) is pleased to announce that, further to the Company's press release of September 14, 2020, it has closed the transaction to acquire a further 25,000 Class A Shares of Conversance Inc., ("Conversance") representing a 2.1% interest, from Joseph Chen, the founder and controlling shareholder of Conversance, in consideration for the issuance of 1,250,000 Convertible First Preferred Shares Series 1 (the "Preferred Shares"). Conversance is a Waterloo Ont. based private company in which ZTEST currently owns a 25.29 % equity interest.

The Preferred Shares are automatically convertible into 1,250,000 common shares of ZTEST if on or before June 30, 2021, an arm's length investor or a group of arm's length investors acting together purchases from the treasury of Conversance an aggregate of at least 130,139 Class A Shares, being 10% of the issued and outstanding capital of Conversance after giving effect to the purchase of the Class A Shares, at a price of at least $10.00 per Class A Share (the "Triggering Event"). If the Triggering Event has not occurred by June 30, 2021, subject to further agreement of the parties, the agreement will be terminated, the Preferred Shares will be redeemed for $1.00 and the 25,000 Class A Shares will be transferred back to Mr. Chen. The Preferred Shares are not transferrable, are subject to a statutory hold period expiring on January 31, 2021 and subject to the terms of the agreement between the parties.

The Company also acquired an option from Conversance to acquire 75,000 Class A Shares of Conversance on or before December 31, 2022 for the payment of $1 million.

The Company is encouraged by the recent internal testing of Conversance's proprietary application, Chronicle. Chronicle was tested on a 256-node test network, simulating nodes distributed around the world, achieving 45,000 transactions per second (tps), with a 16.9-second latency, at 250 bytes per transaction. When the network model simulated a local network, Chronicle achieved 251,000 transactions per second (tps) at a 2.2-second latency.

About ZTEST Electronics Inc.

ZTEST Electronics Inc., through its wholly owned subsidiary Permatech Electronics Corp. ("Permatech"), offers Electronic Manufacturing Services (EMS) to a wide range of customers. Permatech's offering includes Materials Management, Printed Circuit Board (PCB) Assembly, Testing and Design services. Permatech operates from a 20,000 square foot, ISO 9001:2015 certified facility in North York, Ontario, Canada. The company serves customers in the Medical, Power, Computer, Telecommunications, Wireless, Industrial and Consumer Electronics markets requiring high quality, quick-turnaround, small and medium size production runs.

About Conversance Inc.

Conversance, a private company based in Waterloo, Ont., founded by Mr. Chen, is focused on developing and marketing proprietary artificial-intelligence supported distributed ledger technologies. Mr. Chen is an electrical engineer with a strong background in radio frequency, digital signal processing, VLSI (very-large-scale integration), complex systems, chemistry and physics. Mr. Chen joined Research in Motion (now BlackBerry) in 1999, becoming a senior member of the office of the chief technology officer, where he was instrumental in many of Blackberry's key telephony innovations and patents. Mr. Chen's interest in blockchains began in 2009.

For more information contact:

Steve Smith, CEO

(604) 837-3751

email: stevesmith15@shaw.ca

The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release. The CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS: This press release contains forward-looking statements, which relate to future events or future performance and reflect management's current expectations and assumptions. Such forward-looking statements reflect management's current beliefs and are based on assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company. Investors are cautioned that these forward-looking statements are neither promises nor guarantees and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause future results to differ materially from those expected. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and, except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements and by those made in our filings with SEDAR in Canada (available at www.sedar.com).

SOURCE: ZTEST Electronics Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/608655/ZTEST-Closes-Agreement-to-Increase-Equity-Ownership-in-Conversance-Inc
Serena Williams feels the strain during her first round win over Kristie Ahn

Serena Williams withdrew from Roland Garros on Wednesday as the American's bid for a 24th Grand Slam title suffered another blow, sparking further doubts over the 39-year-old's long-term future in the sport.

Williams, a three-time champion in Paris, had arrived at the tournament carrying an Achilles tendon injury which she suffered in a gruelling US Open semi-final defeat to Victoria Azarenka.

"The Achilles didn't have enough time to heal after the US Open," said Williams who had been due to face Bulgaria's Tsvetana Pironkova in the second round at Roland Garros later Wednesday.

"I was struggling to walk and that is a tell-tale sign that I should try to recover."

The injury likely means she will miss the rest of 2020 leaving the Australian Open in 2021 as her next chance to equal Margaret Court's all-time majors record.

"I need four to six weeks of sitting and doing nothing," said Williams, the Roland Garros champion in 2002, 2013 and 2015.

"It's more than likely that I won't play another tournament this year."

Williams, now into her fourth decade on tour, has not won a Slam since capturing a seventh Australian Open in 2017 when she was pregnant.

Since then, it's been a series of near-misses for a player who also pulled out of Paris in 2018 on the even of an eagerly-awaited last-16 clash with Maria Sharapova.

After returning from giving birth, she reached the finals of Wimbledon and the US Open in 2018 and 2019.

In 2020, she fell in three sets in the fourth round in Australia to China's Wang Qiang while the cancellation of Wimbledon was another roadblock.

She will leave Paris knowing full well that such a disrupted season represented her best opportunity to add to her majors haul.

In New York, six of the world's top players opted not to play.

At Roland Garros, four of the leading 10 are missing -- world number one and defending champion Ashleigh Barty, US Open winner Naomi Osaka, 2019 US Open champion Bianca Andreescu as well as Swiss number 10 Belinda Bencic.

Story continues

- Past health scares -

However, it would take a lot to convince Williams to call time on her groundbreaking career having overcome more serious hurdles than an Achilles injury in her time.

In 2011, a pulmonary embolism caused a clot in her lung.

"I was on my death bed at one point  quite literally. I've had a serious illness but at first I didn't appreciate that," she said at the time.

Seven years later, she revealed that she had another close encounter with her own mortality when giving birth.

"I almost died after giving birth to my daughter, Olympia," she said after undergoing an emergency caesarean section.

On Wednesday, Williams gave no indication that she was on the brink of retirement from a career which has brought her 73 career titles, $93.5 million in prize money and a 23-Slam haul which started in 1999 with the first of her six US Open crowns.

"I always give 100 percent, everyone knows that. Maybe even more than 100 if that's possible. I take solace in that," she told reporters.

"I think the Achilles is a real injury that you don't want to play with because that is not good if it gets worse."

dj/mw
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 22:32:12|Editor: huaxia

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TAIYUAN, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Thirteen people were killed, and 15 others injured, after a fire broke out at a tourist site in north China's Shanxi Province on Thursday, local authorities said.

The fire engulfed an exhibition hall of snow sculptures around 1 p.m. at the Taitaishan scenic site in Xiaoshanyan Village in Taiyuan, capital of Shanxi, according to the information office of the provincial government.

All the 15 injured have been rushed to hospitals and are in stable condition, and an investigation has been launched into the cause of the fire, the office said. Enditem
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Staten Island middle and high school students began the return to campus on Thursday for the first day of in-person learning amid excitement and nerves. The citys oldest public school students were the last to return to school buildings as part of New York Citys phased-in reopening amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Thursday marked the first time middle and high school schools opened for in-person learning since the coronavirus outbreak shuttered school campuses in March.

At Tottenville High School, Huguenot, students were excited but stressed about their return, especially following an announcement that the school, along with Susan E. Wagner High School in Sea View, told families that while students would return to their classroom, they would learn virtually from their teachers using a device.

Its definitely going to be weird, said Tottenville High School juniors Damian Villaret and Nicholas Catania. Its not what were used to, but Im sure well make it work. Its nice to be out of the house. Its better than being at home."

Those students participating in the blended learning model go to school two to three days a week and learn remotely on the other days. Parents also have the choice of students learning remotely full-time.

The juniors said they decided to come back to school for blended learning because online schooling was difficult. But they were disgruntled over having to wear a face mask for the entire school day.

But we have to do it with so many people close, they said.

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WHAT LEARNING LOOKS LIKE AT TOTTENVILLE AND WAGNER

At the two high schools, students in the blended learning program go to campus on designated days, but there wont be the traditional live in-person instruction. The city Department of Education (DOE) said that this doesnt mean the high schools are fully remote. Instead, students will be seated in a classroom, but tune into their lessons via a device.

Students will still be able to receive in-person supports, like counseling, social work and occupational and physical therapies.

The news comes shortly after it was announced that the city would no longer require live instruction for blended learners on their remote days.

PTA President Jaycee Nicholas said that families were initially told blended learning students at Tottenville High School would have live instruction with teachers in front of students on the days they attended school.

High school students deserve to have the same live and in-person education as every other school in the city, she said. In some cases, students with IEPs [Individualized Education Plans] or students taking advanced classes such as AP [Advanced Placement] classes probably need the in-person learning even more.

She said live instruction is what students signed up for, and that virtual learning is simply the same thing as remote but with a different location.

I do not need to send my daughter, who is a senior to Tottenville High School, to sit in the classroom for five-and-a-half hours to still only login and see her teachers via Google Meet, Nicholas added.

One Tottenville High School junior, Anthony Sorrentino, said he came back to school for blended learning because its easier and he likes it better. Learning virtually from his teachers on a device while in a classroom doesnt bother him, he said.

As long as someones there, it shouldnt be a problem, he added.

FRESHMEN HAVE JITTERS, SENIORS ARE ECSTATIC

School staff at Tottenville High School were ready as they welcomed hundreds of students back for the first day of in-person schooling on Thursday. They enforced social distancing, telling students to stay six feet apart on their two lines at the front entrance  one for freshmen, and another for sophomores, juniors and seniors.

Mayor Bill de Blasio announced earlier this month that the city would start the process of returning students to school buildings in phases, with the academic year kicking off for some in-person and all remote learners on Sept. 21.

Students in 3-K, pre-K, and District 75 were the first to begin reporting for in-person learning on Sept. 21, followed by K-5 and K-8 students on Tuesday.

Staff at Tottenville also made sure students filled out their daily health screening before entering, providing a QR code for students to scan and fill out from their smartphone.

Additional safety protocols at schools involve social distancing, face coverings and more.

Tottenville seniors were ecstatic to return to school after months of not being able to see teachers and friends. Micaela Viggiano and Amanda Lutter said they were most excited just to go back in the school building.

It feels weird, but Im excited, said Lutter. We cant wait to go in. We hope it gets back to normal. We missed so much. [Im excited] just going into the building. We havent been here in so long."

Freshmen were feeling first-day jitters on Thursday.

I honestly feel stressed, but also excited, said freshman Sedra Agha. I honestly get very confused [with remote learning.] Ill stay blended, theres people near you to help you.

Agha said she is still concerned about going back to campus during the coronavirus pandemic.

I feel kind of scared, she said. Its just because people have it and give it easily -- and take off their masks. Some dont follow the rules.

Another freshman, Habiba Moursy, echoed those same concerns  calling the return to school stressful and hard, because shes scared to contract the virus. She chose blended learning because she wants "to see how stuff is going, and experience high school.

NERVOUS BUT VERY EXCITED AT I.S. 61

It was a similar sight at Morris Intermediate School (I.S. 61), Brighton Heights, as students lined up behind social distancing markers placed on the ground. Principal Susan Tronolone said she is happy to have her students back, as she worked on checking them in during arrival Thursday morning.

Nyla Jones, an eighth-grader at I.S. 61, she said she felt nervous because its the first day, but also because it will feel different with new health and safety protocols during the pandemic.

Sixth-grader Maya Ozana also said she was feeling nervous but very excited.

Im nervous because its the first day. Ive never been in sixth grade," she explained.

Her mother, Jacqui Ozana, said the school seems very organized from what was discussed in virtual parent meetings leading up to the first day of in-person learning.

I feel pretty confident theyve got it under control, she said.

View the gallery above to see photos from I.S. 61 and Tottenville High School as students arrived Thursday morning.

Catholic school students in New York City went back to school earlier this month.

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When Oman's ruler of a half century died without an heir apparent, brief fears of turmoil ended with the quick announcement of a new sultan in this nation on the eastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula.

But instead of the military rulers whose arrivals come with martial music and whose ends often accompany times of trouble in the Mideast, Oman ended up with the culture minister.

That Oman followed its own distinctive, uncommon path after the death of Sultan Qaboos bin Said represents perhaps the best testament to his rule over a nation he brought out of the isolationist obscurity imposed by his father and modernised with its oil wealth.

His successor, Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, has followed his example in establishing his rule over this country of 2.7 million Omanis and another 1.7 million foreigners as the coronavirus pandemic closed off the sultanate. The outside world and internal challenges, however, are preparing to come crashing in.

Oman faces billions in looming loan repayments, including from China, and needs even more money as its youthful population wants jobs and its government cannot afford the cradle-to-grave benefits given in other Gulf Arab nations. Ratcheted-up tensions between Iran and the US  either with Donald Trump still in the White House or a new Joe Biden administration  could see Oman brought into the middle of a situation that nearly sparked a war at the beginning of the year. And the sultanate's long-cherished neutrality finds itself challenged by regional disputes.

Then there's the small matter of serving as sultan after a man literally celebrated each year as the architect of Oman's renaissance. Haitham has a golden chance to become Oman's second renaissance figure," said Bader al-Saif, an assistant professor of history at Kuwait University who studies Oman.

"The domestic economic scene is his to win or his to lose. I mean, I think there is no place for him to play around with it. The situation is very dire.

Already, Sultan Haitham has followed the example of his late cousin. He plans to meet with subjects across his nation of 11 governorates that is larger than the US state of Kansas.

The first visit came in Dhofar, a region bordering Yemen that was still gripped by a guerrilla war with Marxist fighters when Sultan Qaboos took power in 1970. Sultan Qaboos won the war and ultimately invited Dhofari rebels into his government, noticeably the longtime Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Yusuf bin Alawi.

Sultan Haitham's efforts also extended into a quiet government campaign encouraging several dissidents to return to the kingdom, so long as they give up their social media presence and end their activism, said writer Nabhan Alhanshi, who leads the Omani Center for Human Rights from exile in the United Kingdom.

Also invited home was Jamshid bin Abdullah Al Said, the last sultan of Zanzibar, the Tanzanian island once part of Oman.

Sultan Qaboos' father and the late sultan himself kept Al Said in exile in the UK, fearful of any threat to their rule, no matter how minor.

As ruler, Sultan Haitham has deviated from his predecessor by naming finance and foreign ministers, as opposed to wielding the titles himself.

But Sultan Haitham remains the paramount ruler of a country where criticism of the sultan remains a criminal offense punishable by as much as seven years in prison. Oman's press remains muzzled. Meanwhile, Sultan Haitham has created a new Cyber Defence Center that Alhanshi fears will further put activists at risk for speaking out.

Sultan Haitham's decision to put his family into government roles, as well as focusing on financial issues rather than democratic reforms, worries Alhanshi.

During the protests of 2011... they said we have some financial problem, we have to solve it, then we will go through the political reform. But what happened actually there was no political reform," Alhanshi said.

The new government now is saying the same, so how can we trust them? Oman's Embassy in Washington did not respond to several requests for comment from The Associated Press.

The sultanate's finances remain a concern, however. Ratings agencies warn that the Omani government is on pace to run over a $10 billion fiscal deficit in 2020 alone.

That's as global energy prices remain low, cutting into revenues for a nation that produces just under 1 million barrels of oil a day. Traders have put Omani bonds into junk status  meaning a higher risk for default.

Finding money to cover the debts remains key. Oman already has a $3.6 billion payment due in 2022 to a syndicate of Chinese banks, according to ratings agency Fitch.

Seeking more money there, from the West or fellow nations in the six-member Gulf Cooperation Council could make Oman more beholden to them, something Sultan Haitham wants to avoid, said Cinzia Bianco, a fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations.

This makes it even more important for Sultan Haitham to try and keep Omanis close to one another and close to him because there is this other vulnerability, Bianco said.

Then there's Iran. The start of 2020 nearly saw the US and Iran enter a war. Under Sultan Qaboos, Oman had provided a secret backchannel to Tehran during negotiations that led to the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers.

Just before he died, Sultan Qaboos also signed deals allowing the US and British navies access to the Omani port of Duqm, expanding the longtime access both nations enjoy there. India as well has access for its navy.
DEXTER, MI -- If passed, a proposal on Dexters ballot would require a direct vote from residents in future elections on whether to lease or sell city-owned property, including equipment like trucks and light poles.

Right now, such a vote is only needed if the property is a designated park property, according to officials. The new proposal would amend the Dexter city charter on restrictions on powers to sell or lease property."

Two sides have emerged on either side of the issue. On one side is the Dexter Citizens for Responsible Government, which has circulated a petition in favor of the proposal. On the other side is Mayor Shawn Keough and Dexter City Council, which passed a resolution in opposition to the proposal at a Monday, Sept. 14 meeting.

The mayor points out the new measure would require Dexter to hold an election to determine the sale of old trucks, used equipment such as a saws or light poles, or any type of city-owned property. A special election to sell such items could cost $5,000-7,000 -- more than the items are worth in some instances.

Most items that the city chooses to sell are very low value items because they are typically older," Keough said. The cost of holding an election, for example, would in many cases be higher than the value of the items the city might be attempting to sell. The proposed charter amendment language (in my opinion) is simply way too broad and unnecessary."

Six candidates are also vying for three city council seats on the November ballot, including Jamie Griffin, treasurer of Dexter Citizens for Responsible Government.

Griffin said the referendum petition was a result of Dexter selling a portion of city-owned land at 7651 Dan Hoey Road to Avalon Housing and Faith in Action, which proposed a 24-unit apartment complex intended to address affordable housing needs in Washtenaw County.

8 things to know about Dexters contentious supportive housing project

There are plenty of municipalities that permit referendums on land sales," Griffin said in an email.

Matt Bach, communications director for the Michigan Municipal League, also said similar charter provisions are nothing unusual.

We have found charter provisions dealing with the sale of property in a few other communities, such as Alpena, Berkley, Bessemer, Highland Park and Wakefield," Bach said in an email. These charter provisions often vary a great deal in the specific requirements but are not unusual in municipal charters.

Griffin said its part of the democratic process.

Although we knew the charter amendment likely would not be voted on in time to impact this particular sale, we felt strongly that there was enough dysfunction in the process and content of this particular sale, she said, citing the lack of evidence for the land use and its proximity to an elementary school.

While supporters of the Avalon development at a March meeting saw it as an opportunity to address homelessness and housing security, others worried it would cause trouble in the community. There were concerns children at nearby elementary schools would be exposed to residents with substance use disorders.

Certainly, were not looking to violate anybodys rights," Griffin said. One thing the Fair Housing Act does not protect is active drug users and Avalon Housing has permitted drug users can live on the site. There are concerns some people have said.

During the March meeting about the project, Faith in Action social worker Doug Smith said the opposition was disingenuous because it wouldnt matter if we were building this property miles and miles away from any school."

They dont want this population coming into the community  thats the bottom line, Smith added.

Supporting the vulnerable or welcoming the dangerous? Dexter grapples with housing development question

Griffin noted it was never the groups intent to propose citizens vote on all sales of city equipment and property.

With the citys refusal to take any action on a second set of petitions requesting a referendum on the ordinance approving the specific land sale, the city is now setting the precedent that citizens have no means for challenging sales of public real property ... unless, of course, those citizens have the financial means to take the city to court, Griffin said in an email.

Griffin isnt the only city council candidate with an opinion on the matter.

Cole Miller, also running, opposes the amendment, saying it would be destructive to the functionality of city government.

It does add to the cost of election to anything we want to sell. Nobody could be sure of buying property until (an) election is held and those are held a handful of times a year, Miller said. But the central argument against the project was to pre-judge the potential residents as undesirables and outsiders. The project was not opposed by the schools and the current superintendent spoke in favor of the project at some point. I feel that the volume at which the opponents of the project can speak does not represent the number of people they are speaking for.

The ballot language includes:

Should Section 13.05 of the Dexter City Charter be amended such that 1) the requirement for approval by 2/3 of City Council and a majority of City electors apply to the sale of any public property (including all real or personal property and equipment); 2) which approval must occur before closing on the sale of that property; and 3) any leasing of public property for more than 3 years is subject to referendum

Council race also on ballot

The proposal will appear on a local ballot along with the Dexter City Council race where six candidates are vying for three seats.

Candidates include: Griffin, a survey methodologist whos lived in Dexter for three years; Wa-Louisa Hubbard, an operations manager whos lived in Dexter for four years; Phillip Mekas, a financial advisor and 18-year Dexter resident; Zach Michels, currently on city council and urban planner whos lived in Dexter for seven years; Miller, theater manager and 30-year Dexter resident; and James Smith, a retired computer trainer and web administrator, who lived in Dexter for 50 years.

In the Vote411 voter guide, provided through a partnership between MLive and the League of Women Voters of Michigan, candidates shared responses to questions. The responses are not edited. The complete list of questions and answers can be found at Vote411.org, where you can view the voter guide and learn more information about candidates and issues on the ballot.

Below is one of the questions answered by candidates about each candidates goals for Dexter and how they will accomplish them with limited resources, if elected:

Jamie Griffin: First and foremost, I will advocate for more frequent and regular outreach to citizens to gather representative and informed input about key decisions. Fortunately, there are several no-cost or low-cost tools available to increase citizen engagement, including online civic engagement platforms, community forums, and surveys. Similarly, my personal commitment to hold office hours, publish updates summarizing key recent and upcoming agenda items, and share easy-to-digest background information about key policy decisions comes at no additional cost to citizens. Second, I will advocate for evidence-based decision making. Again, such a goal need not result in additional costs to taxpayers: Because I am a researcher by training, even when I have a preconceived policy preference, I will actively seek and consider all of the evidence before coming to a decision. Lastly, I will advocate for a balanced approach to growth characterized by the responsible stewardship of limited resources.

Wa-Louisa Hubbard: One of my goals is to help council move forward and compromise on issues where continued division has held up action. I would also like to work on the ever-present challenge of community involvement in local government. Regarding resource limitations, I will say this: I began my career in the nonprofit arts sector directly after college. Working in an environment where we produced high-quality, professional theatre productions on a shoestring budget taught me early on how to make every dollar count. In a local government setting, I will use that same sensibility while relying on experts and personal research to inform my work on the citys budget.

Phillip Mekas: Once elected to be a City Council person for the City of Dexter my goal would be to help our beautiful small town continue on its path of healthy, financially responsible growth while also being able to help those of us who are less fortunate.

Zach Michels: There is a growing mistrust of all levels of government. To serve our community, we need to demonstrate we are working honorably in their best interests. There are many ways to address this, without much expense. We need to follow our rules and procedures, adopt and follow an ethics and conflict of interest ordinance, broadcast meetings, and be as transparent as possible.

It is important to engage as many voices as possible. I listen to colleagues, make myself available to the public, and try to get people engaged in their City government. I have successfully worked to get student representatives on our public bodies. I will work to provide more opportunities for other community members to participate.

Our fire station is functionally obsolete and unhealthy for our firefighters. Our city office is undersized and does not have meeting space. I will work to prepare plans for new facilities that will meet our needs today and into the future and advocate for the necessary millage.

Cole Miller: My goal on council is to foster constructive conversations on council and with the community help Dexter move forward. Whether it is the long-stalled update to our fire station or what our community can be doing to stay safe and support our families and business during the COVID pandemic, there are issues that need careful consideration but also demand action, not delay. There is more we can be doing to involve all of our residents in city decision making and I will make it a priority to be available and in communication with community groups, and interested citizens. I would also make the effort to reduce barriers by meeting the community where they are, providing options to those with busy schedules, limited free time, or no previous knowledge of city politics to become engaged. I believe that if we can plainly communicate the impact of the decisions we make we will find that people want to be involved and register their opinions.

James Smith: We need to make wise choices in allocating our resources. I will focus on these three priorities.

1. I want to continue the Councils work addressing the deteriorating roads in our community and include a special focus on storm water issues.

2. One of my goals is to find a workable solution for the replacement of our 65-year-old Fire Station. Any new construction includes the question of cost. I look at that cost as an investment in protecting the future of Dexter.

3. The Citys office space above PNC Bank is very cramped. The Senior Center is no longer available for public meetings. I want to provide both improved office space for the Citys staff and a permanent location for public meetings.

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Elementary students gathered outside where the notorious St. Josephs Mission once stood to return the spirit of survivors whose emotional scars run deep and to commemorate those who are no longer with us.

Donning orange shirts donated by RCMP, around 20 students from Little Chiefs Primary School were joined by four members of the Williams Lake detachment, parents, staff and elders at the site of the former residential school on Sept. 30 to commemorate Orange Shirt Day and to mark the first of what will become an annual Returning Spirit Bike Ride.

Lead teacher JoAnne Moiese told the small group that her mother was five years old when she was taken to attend St. Josephs Mission near Sugar Cane.

Moiese said it was an experience her mother never talked to her and her siblings about.

We wanted to do a ceremony to symbolize having the spirits of our ancestors, our elders, and we talked about some of the struggles that theyve had, she said.

Sometimes when theyre taken away from home they end up on the streets and we say that their spirit is lost.

Each orange shirt worn was emblazoned with the logo of the Williams Lake First Nation and BC RCMP Indigenous Policing Services. On the back were the names of 31 survivors in memory of.

I went to residential school and I couldnt sing my songs and I couldnt talk my language that was taken away from me, said Williams Lake First Nation elder Virginia Gilbert.

Choking back tears Gilbert recalled how, as a small child, she tried to run back home from St. Josephs Mission.

I wanted my mom and dad so bad, she told the group.

I told my mom dont tell them Im here. She said go to bed, and the next morning the police knocked on the door and brought me back here.

When Gilbert left St. Josephs Mission in 1963 she said she did not know who she was and did not want to be Indigenous.

I was so ashamed of myself, Gilbert said.

Thats how much they called us down, all the names they gave us, and all the strappings and the hardships they put on us.

Gilberts painful story is one of many across Canada.

I got out then and I went on the streets for a while, and Im just lucky that I made it to sober up and I found myself, she said.

I found my prayers, and I found my songs and I found my drum. Im not ashamed of it anymore. Im proud of who I am.

Williams Lake First Nation Chief Willie Sellars said it meant a lot to be able come together despite COVID-19 limiting the size of the event, noting he was able to speak with Phyllis Webstad earlier in the day, who was unable to attend.

Webstad attended St. Josephs Mission, and her story which spurred the annual Orange Shirt Day held Sept. 30 has grown into a worldwide movement inspiring the message that every child matters.

Every time you hear something new it is almost reopening that wound but in able to deal with that trauma, whether its first hand or inter-generational, we have to be able to talk about it, we have to be able to share those stories, and we have to be able to heal and honour them, Sellars said.

What we do with these lands moving forward and how we honour these individuals is by doing stuff like this every day, he said.

After releasing sage on the ground, Moiese ended the ceremony with the singing of a lahal song before Williams Lake RCMP helped ensure the students safe arrival back to Little Chiefs Primary School where they enjoyed healthy snacks provided by Yeqox Nilin Justice Society.

If they stayed back their parents or their grandparents would be put in jail, Moiese said of students who were sent to residential school.

So it used to be really quiet in the community, and I think it was really fitting the amount of noise we made when we came back.

Read more about:
Kathleen Ohlman Today, we celebrate Kathy Ohlman and the impact she has made in furtherance of the music education profession through her advocacy efforts as well as through the development of her students as both musicians and people.

On October 1, 2020, National Association for Music Education (NAfME) honored Kathleen (Kathy) Ohlman, an exemplary leader in music education in Nebraska by way of Missouri, as a Lowell Mason Fellow. This distinction is one of music educations most important honors, designed to recognize the accomplishments of music educators, music education advocates, political leaders, industry professionals, and others who have contributed to music education in their unique way. Kathy Ohlman was recognized with this honor during a virtual ceremony hosted by NAfME and attended by music educators from around the country.

We are excited to honor Kathy for all of her accomplishments and leadership in music education, said Mackie V. Spradley, NAfME President and Board Chair. Great leaders focus on what they can do for others, while helping them strive to reach their full potential to learn and contribute. Throughout her career, Kathy has given her personal best and refused to accept the status quo. Today, we celebrate her and the impact she has made in furtherance of the music education profession through her advocacy efforts as well as through the development of her students as both musicians and people.

Kathy has spent her adult life instilling the importance and joy of making great music at literally every age level, preschool, to elementary, secondary through college and continuing that music making with her church choir. She currently teaches at Doane University in Crete, Nebraska, said Judy Bush, General Music Specialist in the Lincoln Publics Schools system and NAfME North Central Division President. It is at Crete that she has made her most educational impact. Her students are numerous, and as they go on to their own careers, she remains a mentor to them.

Her passion for music and music education, combined with her vision and work ethic, has benefited hundreds of students and educators and will continually benefit thousands more through the work of her former students in their classrooms. Her attention to detail and selflessness in a world that often demonstrates the opposite defines what it means to be a great music educator, added the nominating group. In addition to her teaching, her grassroots advocacy efforts inspire others to learn more and step out of their comfort zones to approach leadership and decision makers to seriously consider the impact of the arts in our society and therefore, the importance of music education for all.

Kathy has worked tirelessly on behalf of Nebraska Music Education Association (NMEA), particularly in the area of advocacy and in securing and implementing a Country Music Association (CMA) Foundation grant, shared Jay W. Gilbert, Ardis Butler James Fellow, Professor of Music, and Director of Bands at Doane University. She has met with both local and national politicians on important legislative issues, and her willingness to bring those perspectives back to the state of Nebraska has deepened our understanding of arts advocacy.

Kathy Ohlman began her career teaching band and choir at Lutheran South Academy in 1985 after completely her B.S. Ed at Concordia University. A move to Kansas City, Missouri, saw her teaching grades 512 everything which included six separate choirs, grades 512 band plus Freshman English. After finishing her M.Ed in 1995 at Concordia University in Nebraska, she began eight years of teaching at Lincoln Lutheran Middle and High School as well as two elementary schools.

Her PhD work in Curriculum Studies with an emphasis in Music Education with Dr. Glenn Nierman began in August of 2003 as a teaching assistant at the University of NebraskaLincoln, followed by a senior lecturer position where she worked with practicum and student teachers. In 2007, Doane University hired Kathy as an Assistant Professor of Practice in music education where she continues today. In addition to her work at Doane, she is also the Advocacy Director with NMEA.

The prestigious award is named for educator, musician, and composer of more than 1,600 hymn tunes, Lowell Mason, who is considered to be the father of public school music education in the United States. He has been credited with introducing music instruction to American public schools in the 19th century, and with establishing teacher training in music education. In 2002, the importance of his contributions to music education inspired NAfME to create the Lowell Mason Fellows award.

Lowell Mason Fellow designations also provide an opportunity to support the efforts of NAfME through the donation made in the honorees name. This donation goes to NAfME to support future generations of music educators through the organizations programs. Individuals or groups (corporations, universities, foundations, student organizations, etc.) may fund designations.

Read more about the Lowell Mason Fellows distinction and past recipients of the honor here: bit.ly/LowellMason.

###

National Association for Music Education, among the worlds largest arts education organizations, is the only association that addresses all aspects of music education. NAfME advocates at the local, state, and national levels; provides resources for teachers, parents, and administrators; hosts professional development events; and offers a variety of opportunities for students and teachers. The Association has supported music educators at all teaching levels for more than a century. With more than 60,000 members teaching millions of students nationwide, the organization is the national voice of music education in the United States.

Follow NAfME on Twitter (twitter.com/nafme), Instagram (@NAfME), and on Facebook (facebook.com/nafme). For additional information, contact Catherina Hurlburt at catherinah@nafme.org or 571-323-3395.


One man is in custody over the shooting of a woman on Thursday, but another man remains on the run after heavily-armed officers swept a locked-down area of Bribie Island.

The drama started on Thursday morning, when a 27-year-old woman was dropped off with a gunshot wound at her family's home in Rothwell, in the Moreton Bay region, north of Brisbane.

Two men who had left the woman there were believed to have driven off, with one driving to Bribie Island, dumping the vehicle and evading officers on foot.

A suspect was spotted on the island, triggering an emergency declaration about 11am. The whereabouts of the second man were unknown.
The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic continues to ravage the globe, with more than 33.88 million cases and more than a million deaths. One of the countries with skyrocketing cases in the past two months is the Philippines, which reported more than 311,000 confirmed cases, the highest in Southeast Asia.

In a new study published on the medRxiv* preprint server, scientists reported coding of complete genome sequences of 23 severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) strains in the Philippines.

Antipolo City, Philippines - March 31, 2020: A volunteer stands guard at the entrance of a public market to spray alcohol to hands and ensure the use of face mask during the COVID-19. Image Credit: junpinzon / Shutterstock

COVID-19 in the Philippines

The country reports surging COVID-19 cases, spreading across the country since January when the first two cases of the infection were reported.

By March, due to the increasing number of cases, the government imposed an enhanced community quarantine spanning the entire Luzon region. As the months passed by, the National Capital Region (NCR), where Manila is located, has been placed in general community quarantine to allow the reopening of businesses and impose regulations to limit the movement of people in the area.

As most of the country lifted lockdown orders, increasing cases were were reported, prompting the government to implement localized lockdowns in affected areas.

From the more than 311,000 confirmed cases, 5,504 have died.

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that as of September 29, of the number of cases reported in the country, 55 percent are male and the most affected group were those between 20 and 29 years old, followed by those who are 30 to 39 years old. These age groups are the working class in the country, making them at a high risk of contracting the virus.

Of the total number of cases, 53 percent of cases were reported in the NCR, followed by the CALABARZON region (17 percent), Central Visayas region (7 percent), and Central Luzon (5 percent). Of the more than 5,000 deaths, 61 percent are males, with the most affected age group aged 60 to 68 years old, followed by those who are more than 70 years old. The NCR also reports the highest number of deaths (49 percent).

The study

A team of researchers at the Department of Virology, U.S. Army Medical Directorate, Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences in Bangkok, Thailand, the University of the Philippines Manila, and V. Luna Medical Center, Armed Forces of the Philippines Health Service Command aimed to determine and isolate the different strains of the ravaging SARS-CoV-2 in the country.

The research team obtained the genome sequences from nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabs from patients who tested positive for COVID-19 between April and July 2020. The patients tested positive for COVID-19 via the reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test. The team used QIAamp viral RNA Mini kit (Qiagen) to extract the viral RNA and used as a template for amplicon sequencing using ARTIC SARS-CoV-2 V3 primers.

What the study found

The strain details and mutations showed that 20/23 genomes collected between June and July were classified under clade G.R./lineage B.1.1, a major lineage frequently found in Europe and has spread across the globe. Further, two genomes found between July 6 and 7 were placed under clade G.R./lineage B.1.1.28, which were found in Brazil (89 percent), the United Kingdom (8 percent), and China (2 percent).

A single genome was also found and classified under clade O/lineage B.6, a global lineage mostly seen in Singapore and India. The team also reported that none of the sequences in GISAID, which was accessed on August 22 and collected in June, contained the D614G mutation, the most prevalent variant across the globe, and has been tied to higher viral RNA levels and titers of pseudoviruses.

Mutation analysis showed the presence of the D614G mutation in the spike protein in 22 of 23 genomes, the authors wrote in the paper.

However, lineage B.1.1 containing the D614G mutation was observed in samples collected in June. The lineages B.6, B.1.1, and B1.1.28 are the ones present in the Philippines, with the latter as the one first reported in the country.

The team also noted that all patients in the study had no history of travel outside the country and contracted the virus in the National Capital Region (NCR), Region 3, and Region 4A. All the patients were infected due to community transmission.

Some of these lineages may have been introduced to the country by travelers or repatriates who came from other countries. Also, the D614G mutation surpasses the original SARS-CoV-2 strain in terms of prevalence across the globe, which may explain the sudden surge of cases in the Philippines.

*Important Notice

medRxiv publishes preliminary scientific reports that are not peer-reviewed and, therefore, should not be regarded as conclusive, guide clinical practice/health-related behavior, or treated as established information.
Having Neanderthal genes could make you more at risk from severe coronavirus, a study has found.

A genetic quirk inherited from the extinct human species, who lived 40,000 to 400,000 years ago, could make people more susceptible to Covid-19.

This genetic variation is present in modern-day humans because our ancestors had sex with Neanderthals about 60,000 years ago, researchers say.

And those who have the variant, found on chromosome three, are up to three times more likely to need ventilation if they catch the virus.

In a study of 3,199 hospital patients with coronavirus in Italy and Spain, researchers found the genetic signature was linked to a more severe illness.

People infected with Covid-19 who carry a specific snippet of genetic coding bequeathed by Neanderthals are three times more likely to need mechanical ventilation. Pictured: Svante Paabo, director at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Germany and study author

WHO WERE NEANDERTHALS? Neanderthals were a close human ancestor that mysteriously died out around 40,000 years ago. The species lived in Africa with early humans for millennia before moving across to Europe around 300,000 years ago. They were later joined by humans, who entered Eurasia around 48,000 years ago. These were the original 'cavemen', historically thought to be dim-witted and brutish. But in recent years, evidence points to a more sophisticated and multi-talented kind of 'caveman'. It now seems likely that Neanderthals buried their dead, painted and even interbred with humans. Advertisement

Lead author Professor Hugo Zeberg, from the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden, said: The increase in risk is 60-70 per cent if you carry one copy of the Neanderthal variant and three times the risk if you have two copies - one from your father and one from your mother.

Later studies estimate the risk increase to be even higher, with twice the risk if you have one copy and up to a five-fold increase if you have two copies.

The gene variant had first been found in the remains of a Neanderthal in Croatia from some 50,000 years ago, and continues to be found in millions of modern day humans.

Neanderthals were a species that lived alongside humans tens of thousands of years ago and were very similar in appearance and size but were generally stockier and more muscular.

This primitive relative of humans existed for around 100,000 years  much of that time alongside people and breeding with them  before going extinct around 40,00 years ago.

It is not yet known why the Neanderthal gene is associated with an increased risk of becoming severely ill, while scientists say it is something to be investigated as quickly as possible.

Not everyone has this variant  it is most common among people of South Asian ethnicity, of whom around 50 per cent have it.

It is less common in Europe, where about 16 per cent of people carry it.

Bangladesh has the highest number of carriers at 63 per cent.

Professor Zeberg and his fellow study author Dr Svante Paabo said the Neanderthal genes are most common in people of South Asian ethnicity, particularly Bangladeshis, and considerably less common in Europeans (Pictured: A map of where the genes are most common)

This difference may contribute to the differences in severity of Covid-19 that have been observed between different populations.

For example, individuals of Bangladeshi descent in the UK have about two times higher risk of dying from Covid-19 than the general population.

The researchers wanted to know whether the quirk had been passed over from Neanderthals or whether it had been inherited by both Neanderthals and present-day people through a common ancestor.

They concluded it must have come from inbreeding between Neanderthals and present-day humans because the last common ancestor between the groups would have lived 550,000 years ago - during which time the genetic variant probably would have been altered.

Neanderthals were a species that lived alongside humans tens of thousands of years ago and were very similar in appearance and size but were generally stockier and more muscular (Pictured: A replica of a male Neanderthal head in London's Natural History Museum)

Author Professor Svante Paabo, from the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, said: It is striking that the genetic heritage from Neanderthals has such tragic consequences during the current pandemic.

The scientists are keen to point out that there are also other factors that can influence a persons susceptibility to having a severe reaction to the virus, including their age and the existence of other medical conditions.

Professor Zeberg, said: Obviously, factors such as your age and other diseases you may have also affect how severely you are affected by the virus.

But among genetic factors, this is the strongest one.

The study was published as a pre-print in July and has now been peer reviewed and published in Nature.
Oregon Food Bank CEO Susannah Morgan said in a statement posted on the non-profits website last Friday that it would no longer participate in the $4 billion federal Farmers-to-Families Food Box program, in part because the U.S. Department of Agriculture now mandates that food boxes include a promotional letter from President Donald Trump.

The statement has since been taken down from the site, and the food bank announced Thursday that it has come up with a new plan to stick with the federal program for its final few weeks.
Door-maker Steves & Sons Inc., one of San Antonios oldest businesses, began as a lumberyard near the Alamo.

Edward Steves started the enterprise in 1866 after emigrating from Germany.

He was bringing in cypress from Louisiana and longleaf pine from Florida by the late 70s, and had relocated the business near what would become the Sunset Station railroad tracks and shipped his wares, according to San Antonio Express-News archives.

There is not a habitation in southwest Texas or northern Mexico  that has not got one or more planks about it from the yards of Steves & Sons, a local newspaper reported at the time.

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The company eventually branched into doors and windows.

Employees produced aircraft propellers for the Army Air Corps during World War I and worked on Liberty ships during World War II. After the war, the business gave its profits to the government as thanks for the Steves sons safe return from military duty.

Bob Owen /San Antonio Express-News

After the war, the business went back to making products for homes and continued to expand.

Today, Steves & Sons operates plants in San Antonio; Richmond, Va.; and Lebanon, Tenn. It employs between 1,100 and 1,400 people companywide, including about 800 workers in San Antonio.

The business recently began construction on a 100,000-square-foot addition to its Humble Avenue facilities.

On ExpressNews.com: San Antonio door-maker adding to manufacturing facility

The expansion and new equipment will help it ship more products and manufacture upward of 16,000 doors per day in San Antonio.

We talked to Sam Steves and Edward Steves, fifth-generation owners and brothers, about the biggest challenges facing the industry and how the coronavirus has affected the company. Sam is president and chief operating officer of the company, and Edward is CEO.

Heres an edited transcript of the interview.

Q: You work with companies that sell materials to homebuilders, and your doors are also sold through Home Depot. Whats the breakdown?

S.S.: Were exclusive to Home Depot, and its about 25 percent of our total overall dollar buy-in.

That leaves the rest of it to what we call millwork jobbers. They take a door from us, just a simple door, and they may prehang it in a frame. Then they sell it to homebuilders.

File photo

Every door we make is built to order, and its complicated. An order is typically 1,000 doors, but its not usually 1,000 of the same thing. Its 30 of this, 60 of that, 120 of this, five of this. ... It ends up making 1,000 doors.

Were shipping all over. If you look at a map, we pretty much cover the country right now.

Q: Whats the biggest change youve seen the industry go through?

E.S.: We went from 40 competitors to a handful. It changes the landscape so much. Thats one of the reasons why were able to sell so much more than we did 30 or 40 years ago. If we could produce 80,000 doors a day, we could sell them. Its a remarkable environment.

S.S.: I agree. If we had twice the capacity  were thinking about how to get to that. Its a long fall from the top, and were pretty comfortable where we are. Weve always been conservative. Today, Steves & Sons outperforms the billion-dollar companies with quality and service.

E.S.: With the tenets of price, quality and service, price is really the last one. If the quality isnt there, someone is not going to buy it from you. If they cant get it from a service standpoint, theyre not going to buy it from you.

S.S.: Another reason for our success goes back to our father. He decided he was going to retire when he was 65, and the only requirement he had of us was that we didnt have any debt at the end of each year. That meant that if we borrowed money from the bank, we had to figure some way to pay it back.

Thats been a mainstay of giving us stability during unstable times. There were some (tough) times in the 70s, 80s, 90s and even the most recent recession we just got out of. Had we not had that cash reserve  and now we have a significant cash reserve  we wouldnt have been able to make it.

E.S.: Weve had opportunities to buy other operations, but it would have put such a tax on us and we wouldnt have met the requirement our father gave us. We dont feel like were the owners of this company. Were the temporary stewards that are holding it and passing it on to the next generation.

Q: How has the coronavirus pandemic affected operations?

S.S.: Were tracking the cost of COVID at our company monthly, and thats a private number, but its significant. Its got two commas in it already.

If theres a suspected infection, were very liberal in terms of how we handle it. We contact-trace everyone who might have been around (an infected person). Everyone leaves immediately. If theres a known infection, companies come in and sanitize anywhere from an area to the whole plant. Weve done both.

Bob Owen /Staff photographer

We pay people until they can come back safely. Each plant has their own resources, and they are very different state by state. San Antonio has some pretty good testing resources for quick turns.

One of the biggest issues is fear. Were working as hard as we can to demonstrate that were working in a safe environment.

Every day when an employee clocks in, a thermal imaging device can see them with their mask on, take their temperature and log it to a chart system. Its logged again at lunchtime. Were also asking screening questions an epidemiologist suggested.

E.S.: I think weve had a total of 80 COVID-19 cases companywide.

S.S.: The other byproduct of the pandemic has been a horrible employment situation.

We cannot hire people at any price, and its not just us. When I talk to customers from New York to Florida to the Carolinas, anywhere we do business, its as if Im having the same conversation all over again. Its a problem.

Weve been experimenting with different pay rates. Were so far out of the box in recruiting, which is great. Were not just sort of hoping it will happen, were doing everything we can.

E.S.: Were making a lot of improvements in our plants, to have it (be) more comfortable.

(That includes incorporating climate control systems to help with the summer humidity and heat in areas that we can and air-conditioning systems directed at certain work stations, Sam Steves said. The company uses large industrial fans in the summer and heaters in the winter.)

S.S.: Were modernizing it, and shame on us for waiting until 2020 to do it, but were doing it.

Q: Theres been a lot of talk recently about automation in manufacturing and robots replacing humans. Whats your take on that?

S.S.: Some of our competitors have tried automated lines and have not been successful in making them work. If youre making the same Key lime pie in the same size all day long, you could. But the diversity (with different sizes and designs) causes problems.

A door sizer (which is part of the companys local expansion) helps maintain these incredibly tight tolerances for width and length. The product comes off as a beautifully finished piece of millwork, and its accurate and its able to make changes very quickly.

Years ago, we invested in an automatic door feeder and a brand-new machine that we put into Tennessee. We thought it was the way of the future: The doors are going to come up in stacks of 60 and start feeding through the machine, and its going to be incredible.

But we did some time studies. We did a study of our San Antonio door sizer and the Tennessee sizer, and we were going no faster with a feeder. It actually required one more person.

Were thinking about taking the feeder out now. We think it slows us down. So theres automation that didnt work. Its powerful, but it doesnt go faster than a human being, and it doesnt make it any easier.

There might be some technologies related to how we prime the edges of our doors that could be robotic later on.

madison.iszler@express-news.net
A police case was lodged against Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra under the Epidemic Act on October 1, according to media reports.

A police case was filed at Ecotech One police station of Gautam Budh Nagar against the two senior leaders as well as over 150 other Congress workers reportedly accompanying them, news channel NDTV reported.

The two leaders were detained earlier in the afternoon by UP police as they made their way to Hathras district from New Delhi. According to reports, Rahul was also shoved and pushed to the ground by police.

The Gandhis had planned to visit the village and meet family members of the 19-year-old woman who died on September 29, two weeks after being allegedly raped and tortured by four men in Hathras.

Accompanied by Congress supporters, the Gandhis had started a foot-march to Hathras -- more than 140 km away -- after their vehicles were stopped at the Delhi-UP border. Congress supporters and the police clashed in the ensuing chaos on the Yamuna Expressway.

"I want to walk to Hathras alone. Please tell me under which section are you arresting me?" Rahul Gandhi was seen asking the police, in a video tweeted by news agency ANI.

"We are arresting you under Section 188 IPC for violation of an order," police personnel responded.

Now, reports suggest that Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi have been arrested under Sections 188, 269, 260.
KOCHI: The arrest of the manager of a private laboratory in Malappuram district for issuing fake COVID-19 negative certificates to the NRIs from Kerala is likely to have grave consequences. Expatriates are concerned over the chances for ban on Indian carriers and passengers by foreign countries, especially West Asian nations. Though only a single incident of issuing false COVID-19 negative certificates to expats flying to foreign countries from Kerala has been reported, it might have serious consequences.

Though India has entered into air bubble agreement with 15 countries, including the UAE, which has the highest Indian expat population, violation of the pact by sending COVID-19 positive passengers may result in a ban on carriers and travellers, observed sources in the sector. India has signed bilateral air bubble agreement with Afghanistan, Bahrain, Canada, France, Germany, Iraq, Japan, the Maldives, Nigeria, Qatar, UAE, UK, USA, Kenya and Bhutan to facilitate commercial passenger service during the pandemic times when regular flight services are not operational.

The private lab in Malappuram which issued the false COVID-19 certificates to NRIs has done serious offence which will adversely impact the thousands of passengers from the country who are flying on emergency purpose. Students and those travelling for job related purpose will be the victims. As the number of COVID-19 cases is increasing rapidly in India, many countries have started imposing stringent restrictions on Indian passengers. The recent brief ban imposed by Saudi Arabia and Dubai on Indian carriers is a clear indication that countries will take extreme steps, said Renjith Jacob, a Kochi based travel and tour consultant.

Only those who have emergency needs are flying these days for exorbitant ticket rates. Even if a flight ticket is booked, there is no guarantee whether the passengers will be able to fly as the flight may get cancelled any time. During these times of uncertainty, giving a false COVID-19 certificate to a flyer is a serious crime. It is similar to a fight against the country as sending virus infected passengers to air bubble partner countries will affect the bilateral relations also, he observed.

The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority has already instructed Air India Express to reject COVID-19 negative certificates from four ICMR-approved laboratories in India including Micro Health Labs in Kozhikode, Kerala. Several passengers who received negative certificates from the Kozhikode lab who booked tickets to Dubai from various Kerala airports could not fly.

Such criminal activities to amass money during the pandemic crisis will not only worsen the COVID-19 situation but will adversely impact the future of hundreds of NRIs. Though the incident was reported from Kerala, it will affect expats from across the country. I have been getting inquiries from several expats who are forced to travel by shelling out big money only to rejoin office or other emergency purposes. Exploiting them in the name of mandatory certificates should not be allowed, said Thomas P, another travel consultant.

The private lab in Valancherry in Malappuram issued fake negative certificates to more than 2000 expatriates without testing their swab samples.

According to reports, the lab has been collecting samples from expats flying to Middle East countries and sending it to its parent lab, Micro Health Labs in Kozhikode for testing. Though the Kozhikode lab is an ICMR approved facility for COVID-19 testing, the allegation is that the franchise firm in Malappuram district issued the false certificate without sending all samples to Micro Health Labs. The lab amassed big money by issuing false certificates, it has been alleged. Several NRIs who received negative certificates from the lab tested positive soon after reaching the destination countries.
The Daily Beast

Reuters/Arnd WiegmannTheatrical rock superstar Meat Loaf, whose Bat Out of Hell is one of the bestselling albums of all time, has died at the age of 74. Reports say the singer and actor had recently fallen sick with COVID-19.In an emotional statement posted to Facebook early Friday, the performers family said he was with his wife when he died and had said his final goodbyes to his two daughters in the past 24 hours. The star sold 100 million albums in his five-decade career and starred in movie
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In the ongoing Kulbhushan Jadhav case, the Islamabad High Court set October 6 as the hearing date for appointing a defence counsel on Thursday, as per local media. The High Court has directed the Imran Khan-led government to give India another chance to appoint a legal representative for Jadhav - who was captured in 2017, while the Pakistan govt claimed 'India has not responded to the offer'. Pakistan has repeatedly dismissed the request to allow Indian lawyers to represent Jadhav in what is a violation of the ICJ verdict.

HC fixes October 6 for Kulbhushan hearing

Pakistan's Islamabad High Court (IHC) fixes the hearing of the case related to the appointment of defence counsel for Indian national Kulbhushan Jadhav (in file pic) on October 6: Pakistan media pic.twitter.com/hNQEvWmVPN  ANI (@ANI) October 1, 2020

Coronavirus LIVE Updates: India's tally crosses 63 lakhs; active cases drop to 9,40,705

Pak extends ICJ review ordinance

On September 15, the Pakistan parliament extended the International Court of Justice (ICJ) Review and Re-consideration Ordinance 2020 which was due to expire on September 17, for another four months. The Ordinance will allow Kulbhushan Jadhav to file an appeal in a high court against his conviction. Recently, Pakistan blocked the Indian lawyer assigned to Jadhav from filing a review petition with the MEA insisting a 'free and fair' trial for Jadhav.

As necessitated by the 2019 ICJ's ruling, Pakistan had to give India to consular access to Jadhav while hearing the appeal against the death sentence handed to him through a military court trial court. The Opposition allegedly believes that the Imran Khan government will attempt to facilitate a reprieve for Jadhav through a secret deal assumably with India after passing the Ordinance. India is in constant touch with Pakistan seeking consular access and legal representation.

Pakistan dismisses mandate on Indian lawyers for Kulbhushan Jadhav: Pakistani media

Pakistan fails to provide meaningful consular access

On July 16, Pakistan once again failed to fulfill its obligations pertaining to the ICJ verdict by not providing unimpeded, unhindered, and unconditional access to Kulbhushan Jadhav. The MEA stated that Pakistani officials with an intimidating demeanor were present in close proximity to Jadhav and the consular officers. Moreover, Jadhav also allegedly missed the deadline to file the review petition in the Islamabad High Court amid the confusion over the date. India has been granted two consular meetings with Jadhav till date.

Pak presents ICJ review ordinance in parliament to allow Kulbhushan Jadhav file for review

The International Court of Justice had on July 17, 2019, gave a unanimous decision (15-1) in favour of India. Pronouncing its verdict in the matter, the ICJ had called out Pakistan for violating the Vienna Convention, declaring that Pakistan had breached the Vienna Convention by not informing India about Jadhav's detention. The ICJ also verified the legality of India approaching the court in the matter and reaffirmed its jurisdiction in the case, ordering Pakistan to provide India consular access to Jadhav. Pakistan was furthermore asked to review and reconsider its conviction of the sentence of Kulbhushan Jadhav and declared a continued stay on the execution of Jadhav.

Islamabad HC reiterates India's right to appoint Kulbhushan Jadhav's lawyer;case adjourned
"In order to achieve this, we must have minimum standards for certain frequencies of infections," said Merkel.

At a Berlin news briefing following her virtual meeting with the governors, Merkel said she wants to act regionally and address the virus where it is surging rather than shut down the whole country, which she said should be avoided at all costs.

After consulting with Germany's 16 regional governors, German Chancellor Angela Merkel Wednesday announced new restrictions on the size of gatherings to prevent the country's coronavirus infection figures from accelerating.

The German chancellor said in places where there are more than 35 new infections per 100,000 residents recorded in a week, the number of people attending gatherings at public or rented facilities should be limited to 50 and no more than 25 should attend events in private homes.

She said that where infections hit at least 50 per 100,000 residents, those figures should be cut to 25 and 10 respectively.

Merkel said she expects the rate of infection to rise as the change in weather means more people will spend time inside in the coming months. She said the number of daily infections could rise to 19,200 in three months if the rate of infection continues as it has over the past three months. "This underlines the urgency for us to act," said Merkel.

The chancellor also discouraged travel to high risk areas in Europe in the coming months, saying staying in Germany was a good option. She said low risk European nations such as Italy might be a good option, noting the number of COVID-19 cases are very low there now and "they are acting very carefully."

Johns Hopkins University reports Germany has over 289,000 confirmed cases of coronavirus and just over 9,450 deaths.
Black Lives Matter Leader Endorses Wesson

Black Lives Matter Los Angeles leader Dr. Melina Abdullah endorses Herb Wesson and speaks out against the smear campaign he is facing in the race for LA County Supervisor.

This week, LA City Council President Emeritus Herb Wesson received the official support of Dr. Melina Abdullah, co-founder of Black Lives Matter Los Angeles. Dr. Melina Abdullah is a professor of Pan-African Studies at California State University, Los Angeles and an outspoken advocate for police reform. Herb Wesson is running to replace Mark Ridley-Thomas on the LA County Board of Supervisors in this years open election.

Dr. Melina Abdullah, co-founder of Black Lives Matter Los Angeles, released the following statement:

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Im deeply disappointed by the attacks on Herb Wesson. I had hoped that this race for Supervisor in the district in which I live would remain grounded in truth and commitment to the people.

Let me be clear, no elected official in the County has been more courageous in the fight for a transformed system of public safety  one that values Black life and by extension, all humanity  than Herb Wesson.

Herb has fought arm-in-arm with organizers on the ground to build towards policies that actually keep us safe by investing in resources for our people rather than over-policing.

It is not often that we have an opportunity to elect someone who places his duty as a Black man, a father, a grandfather, a community member, and a man of the people ahead of a political calculus. I have never been more inspired by the vision, honesty, authenticity, loyalty to the community, and courage of a political leader than I am by Herbs. I am humbled to call him a dear friend and a deeply valued partner in this work.

Rarely do I offer political endorsements. However, it is imperative in this movement-moment that we elect leaders who will not simply say Black Lives Matter, but MAKE Black Lives Matter central to their policy work and leadership. I offer my wholehearted, enthusiastic endorsement of Herb Wesson as Supervisor of Los Angeles Countys second district.

Throughout his career, Herb has worked tirelessly to dismantle the systems that are designed to harm people of color. Thats why he supports reducing the operating budget of the Los Angeles Police Department by hundreds of millions of dollars and investing those funds in essential social programs that support historically disenfranchised communities.

Herb has also called for a new, non-emergency response model that will ensure trained specialists, rather than armed police officers, are available to help our homeless community members as well as those suffering from substance abuse and mental health issues. This proposal has been lauded by leaders of the Black Lives Matter Movement and social justice advocates as a smart, commonsense step to protect communities of color.

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To learn more about Herb, please visit: WessonForSupervisor2020.com
Jammu, Oct 1: The Public Investment Board (PIB) has recommended that the 850-MW Ratle hydroelectric power project be developed through a joint venture company of the JK Power Development Corporation and the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation, an official spokesperson said. The PIB, in the Union Ministry of Finance, has also recommended an investment approval for Rs 5,281.94 crore for the project, including an infusion of equity of Rs 808.14 crore by NHPC in the JVC, the spokesperson said.

The equity contribution of JKPDC in the company pegged at Rs 776.44 crore will be provided as grant from the Centre. The recommendations of the PIB will pave the way for final approval of the project and an early beginning of work on the project," the spokesperson said.

It may be recalled that Ratle was the first project in India which was awarded through tariff-based bidding, the spokesperson said. However, the project was stalled due to the unilateral withdrawal by the erstwhile developer from the project. All the clearances for the project are already in place and the project is expected to be completed within 36 months of the start of work. The initiation of the project will be yet another step in adding to the revenues of the UT from its abundant hydro resources," he added.

J&K has over 20,000 MW of hydropower potential, out of which 16,000 MW has been identified. With the PIB decision, J&K would have moved another step closer to harnessing nearly 2,500 MW of this potential, he said. Now that the decks have been cleared for the 850 MW Ratle project too to come up after incorporation of joint venture company i.e Jammu Hydroelectric Power Corporation Limited, an additional 3000 MW will be available to supplement the demand-supply position in J&K and boost the overall economy of the UT," he said.
Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., speaks during her weekly news conference in the Capitol in Washington on Thursday, Sept. 24, 2020.

As House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin try to hash out another coronavirus relief package, distressed business owners continue to wait in the wings.

The two officials had met on Wednesday to work toward another stimulus deal. Though they have found common ground over certain items  including those much-awaited $1,200 stimulus payments  other forms of relief remain up in the air.

To that end, House Democrats have released a new comprehensive relief bill earlier this week. This proposal is a slimmer version of the HEROES Act, weighing in at $2.2 trillion  down from the $3.4 trillion pitch lawmakers put forth in May.

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In addition to the $1,200 stimulus payments, House Democrats have proposed improvements to the Paycheck Protection Program  the forgivable federal loan program for cash-strapped small businesses that was established under the CARES Act this spring.

The measure was initially up for a vote on Wednesday evening, but House Democrats delayed it to give Pelosi and Mnuchin more time to talk.

"When the CARES Act was put into play six months ago, they were trying to solve a lot of problems very quickly," said Megan Gorman, managing partner at Chequers Financial Management in San Francisco.

"We've had a lot of partisan debate over the last six months," she said. "During that time, the tax community, the banking community and the small-business community are starting to understand where the problems are."

Differences aside, there are some areas where lawmakers on both sides of the aisle might find common ground.
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A Neumann University billboard near the Commodore Barry Bridge was one of 23 along Interstate 95 in Delaware County that was part of a property tax case that allows Pennsylvania school districts to get more revenue out of parcels where billboards stand. Read more

In a case where two Delaware County school districts tried to squeeze more tax revenues from more than 20 billboards along I-95 and Route 322, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court on Thursday upheld a 2018 lower-court decision that supported the districts and overturned a long-accepted property tax exemption for billboards.

The decisions upheld the tax exemption for billboards themselves and the structures that support them but said the assessed value of the land where the signs stand should take into account the rent paid to the property owner.

Donald J. Weiss, a Delaware County lawyer who represented the Chester Upland and Chichester School Districts on a contingency basis, said the decision means that the two school districts should collect a total of $200,000 a year from the parcels in question. The decision is retroactive for three years, which takes the total to $600,000, he said.

Unanimous by Commonwealth Court, unanimous by Supreme Court. Not too shabby, Weiss said. He said the money will help pay for teachers, at least until lobbyists get to the legislators again and change the law.

Weiss said in 2017 that he came up with the idea that the assessed value of a parcel of land with a billboard on it should reflect the income stream from the billboard while sitting by a pool reading the law in 2013. It was a move that even an opponent called creative.

Current law did not permit taxing billboards. The two districts were hoping to increase the assessment of the land the signs were on, figuring that the rent should raise the value of the parcel. The creative legal move was seen as a desperate attempt by school districts to increase revenue amid strained budgets.

The case also shed light on an obscure area of property tax law and has stirred concerns that other exemptions such as those for silos, amusement park rides, and wind turbines could come under threat, according to real estate lawyers not involved in the case.

A representative of the Outdoor Advertising Association of Pennsylvania could not immediately be reached for comment about the implications for the industry.

Weiss co-counsel were Pamela Van Blunk and Mark Zaid.
ROME: The Vaticans number two said on Thursday after talks with Mike Pompeo that the two sides positions on China remained far apart and firmly asserted the Holy Sees right to pursue an accord with Beijing denounced by the U.S. Secretary of State.

Pompeo met Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Foreign Minister Archbishop Paul Gallagher on Thursday on a visit to Rome marked by Vatican irritation over Pompeos public criticism of a Holy See accord with Beijing on the appointment of bishops.

Vatican officials have said they were surprised" by Pompeos comments, made last month, and particularly that they were published in a conservative U.S. Catholic publication that has called Pope Francis pontificate a failure.

Parolin, second only to the pope in the Vatican hierarchy, spoke to reporters on the sidelines of a book launch on Thursday night. He was asked if the positions were still distant.

Yes, even though the purpose of the meeting was not to bring the positions closer," he said.

In an article and a series of tweets in September Pompeo accused the Vatican of putting its moral authority" at risk if it renewed an agreement with China over the appointment of bishops. It sparked a minor diplomatic crisis.

Vatican officials suggested Pompeo was trying to drag the Catholic Church into the U.S. presidential election by denouncing its relations with China. Pompeo has denied this.

He (Pompeo) explained his reasons for making those statements and we explained our reasons why we intend to move ahead on the path we have already chosen," Parolin said.

Parolin said the Vatican asserts (the right to move forward) with a choice that has been thought through, reflected on, prayed over, a choice the pope has made, therefore the freedom to move forward."

The Vaticans two-year-old accord with Beijing gives the pope final say over the appointment of Chinese bishops. Parolin said the Vatican would renew it when it expires this month.

Vatican officials say the agreement is not perfect but establishes a dialogue with Beijing after decades during which Chinese Catholics faithful to the pope were driven underground.

Parolin said Pompeo had expressed understanding for the way the Holy See approaches these issues."

President Donald Trump has campaigned on his hard line on China ahead of the Nov. 3 election. He is also associated with conservative Protestant and Catholic movements, many of which have been critical of Pope Francis.

In an address to a symposium on Wednesday, Pompeo did not directly address the Vatican agreement with Beijing but described China as the worlds worst abuser of religious rights.

Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 1)  Any plans to revive the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant should start with securing the nod of residents in the area, President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered.

Duterte's spokesman Harry Roque confirmed that the President recently met with Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi and former Pangasinan Rep. Mark Cojuangco, who lobbied to use the mothballed facility to supply electricity in the country.

"Ang sabi po ni Presidente, pag-aralang mabuti but start from the ground. I take that to mean na kami pong mga taga-Bataan ang dapat konsultahin muna kung gusto nating buksan ang Bataan Nuclear Power Plant," Roque said in a press briefing held in Mariveles.

[Translation: The President instructed to study the plan well and start from the ground. I take that to mean that we, Bataan residents should first be consulted if we are in favor of reopening the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant.]

READ: A look inside a sleeping giant: the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant

The countrys first and only nuclear power facility is located in the town of Morong, Bataan and was supposed to generate 623 megawatts of clean energy. In 1986, then president Corazon Aquino shut down the facility due to corruption and safety concerns after the disastrous Chernobyl incident in Russia in the same year.

The project was revisited in 2018 as the Philippines looked for other sources to meet growing demand for power. Russian Ambassador Igor Khovaev, however, told CNN Philippines that the plant was beyond revival because of its "absolutely outdated" technology.

Duterte has expressed openness in tapping nuclear energy, having earlier issued Executive Order 116 that created the Nuclear Energy Program Inter-Agency Committee. The body will study the adoption of a national nuclear energy policy.

The government is also in talks with Russia for nuclear power technology, including Moscow's idea of using floating nuclear power barges to bring electricity to island provinces.

Cusi earlier said there is a plan to use small modular nuclear reactors to power up Palawan and Sulu  areas which may be hard to connect to the national grid.
Clare Bronfman was a self-described socially anxious multimillionaire with "patterns of self-loathing, insecurities, shame and fears" until she discovered NXIVM, a self-improvement group based near Albany, N.Y., in 2003.

But the group and its leader, Keith Raniere, transformed her, and Bronfman felt she became more than just an heiress to the Seagram's liquor riches. Over the span of 15 years, Bronfman became more entrenched in NXIVM, joining the executive board, falsifying visa applications for foreign recruits, and using her deep pockets to fund the group, now widely referred to as a cult, and to scare off detractors with persistent lawsuits.

Even after pleading guilty last year to conspiracy to conceal and harbor aliens for financial gain and fraudulent use of personal identification information - and after learning about Raniere's secret group called DOS that was designed to coerce and groom women into having sex with him - Bronfman has stood by NXIVM's leader.

"NXIVM and Keith greatly changed my life for the better," Bronfman wrote to the judge before her sentencing.

On Wednesday, a judge for the Eastern District of New York sentenced Bronfman, 41, to six years and nine months in prison, a ruling that was notably longer than prosecutors had requested.

In a lengthy reading of her sentence, Judge Nicholas Garaufis said her "crimes were not committed in a vacuum" and said he could not ignore her "close relationship with Raniere," who was convicted of racketeering and sex trafficking in June 2019.

"I don't know how many other multimillionaires are out there, ready to devote the limitless resources at their disposal to supporting pyramid schemes run by dangerous criminals," Garaufis said.

In a statement to The Washington Post, Bronfman's lawyer, Ronald S. Sullivan Jr., called the judge's sentencing an "abomination" and said they plan to file an appeal.

"The sentence imposed today was grossly disproportionate to Clare Bronfman's conduct and manifestly unfair, particularly in light of the fact that the court found that Clare had no knowledge of DOS and did not fund any sex cult," Sullivan said.

NXIVM (pronounced Nex-e-um) was advertised as a group meant to empower its members and teach them how to overcome self-imposed fears and barriers. The courses cost thousands of dollars and attendees often included actors, entrepreneurs, filmmakers and wealthy intellectuals.

In 2017, the group became known as a "sex cult" after the New York Times published a story about DOS, a secretive women's-only subgroup run by Raniere that involved branding women with his initials, forcing them to provide damaging collateral and coercing them into having sex with him. Recruiters of the group were called "masters" and new members were "slaves."

NXIVM soon seeped into mainstream pop culture. In 2018, the Canadian Broadcasting Corp. produced a podcast called "Uncover: Escaping NXIVM." A nine-part docuseries called "The Vow" premiered on HBO in August.

Bronfman, who said she was unaware of DOS, was involved in other illegal activity inside NXIVM. Between October 2015 and January 2018, Bronfman recruited members of affiliated NXIVM groups from outside the United States and used falsified documents to help them obtain visas or other immigration documents, authorities said. For one of her recruits from Mexico, Bronfman submitted documents saying she hired the woman as a management consultant and paid her $3,600 a month. But Bronfman paid the woman only $4,000 for more than a year of work.

Prosecutors said that Bronfman also assisted Raniere in using his deceased partner's credit card information to hide money and assets so he could avoid paying taxes on the funds.

"Defendant Bronfman twisted our immigration system to serve a reprehensible agenda, and engaged in flagrant fraud to the detriment of her victims and in the service of a corrupt endeavor," acting U.S. attorney Seth D. DuCharme said in a news release. "With today's sentence, she has been held accountable for her crimes."

During her 15 years with the group, prosecutors estimate that Bronfman spent $116 million on NXIVM and Raneire, according to the Times. Bronfman used her seemingly endless well of money to fund aggressive and persistent lawsuits against ex-members and critics. Prosecutors said that she went so far as to hire private investigators to find private financial records belonging to judges, journalists, cult experts, and even Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.).

Bronfman plead guilty in April 2019. Three other defendants, including former "Smallville" actress Allison Mack who was also a co-leader of DOS, also pleaded guilty to various charges. Raniere's sentencing is set for Oct. 27. The others have not yet been sentenced.

During the four-hour hearing on Wednesday, nine victims who left NXIVM spoke directly to Bronfman, some pleading her to renounce Raniere and others tearfully recounting how Bronfman's actions derailed their lives.

Barbara Bouchey, an ex-girlfriend of Raniere who was also Bronfman's financial planner before leaving NXIVM, said that for the past few weeks Bronfman has used the threat of litigation and made-up criminal charges to intimidate her, the Times reported.

"You have not stopped damaging me," Bouchey said, in tears. "Will you never stop?"

Susan Dones, another former member, implored Bronfman to denounce Raniere.

"I pray that you will take the claws of Keith Raniere out of you, and you will learn who Clare Bronfman really is," Dones said, crying.

She added, "He is killing you."
Theodore M. Johnston Jr., 86, of Cherry Hill, a retired physician who once worked at Hahnemann and Cooper hospitals, died Thursday, Sept. 17, from complications of a heart procedure at Virtua Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Camden.

He was a kindhearted, humble healer who wanted to help others and make the world a better place, Jennifer Johnston said of her father. He was dedicated to service and family, and he was loved by so many.

Dr. Johnston was born in 1934, in Grottoes, Va. He was the eldest of five children of Theodore and Rosa Johnston, who reared their family in Staunton, Va. It was there that Dr. Johnston graduated from Booker T. Washington High School.

He was very industrious as a child during World War II, his daughter said. He made spending money by hauling ice in his wagon, and he did other jobs, like washing the windows in the local shoe store.

Even so, he had large dreams and aspirations, she said.

Starting in childhood, she said, he wanted to study medicine, and he was inspired by his parents and an African American family physician who was a mentor and early role model for him.

After high school, Dr. Johnston enrolled at Virginia State University, where he met his future wife, Barbara Smith, in 1951 during freshman year.

Walter Tucker, a retired banker living in North Carolina, was Dr. Johnstons college roommate.

We called him Tim, and he had a mathematical mind where he found it effortless to deal with calculus, trigonometry and the sciences," Tucker said.

The young Theodore Johnston stood out as friendly, but a quiet, studious type when they first met.

It was just like he had been a brother of mine all my life, said Tucker, who was best man at the Johnstons wedding.

Both men were in Army ROTC. They graduated from Virginia State in 1955 and went through basic training together at Fort Benning, Ga.

Afterward, they returned to their parents homes in Virginia, and then met in Roanoke to set off on a cross-country road trip to meet their assigned Army units.

The two drove to San Francisco, where Dr. Johnston continued on to his post at the former Fort Ord, an Army base near Monterey, and Tucker flew to South Korea to join his unit.

In 1963, while in the Army Reserve, Dr. Johnston married his college sweetheart. They had two daughters. Their union lasted until her death in 2014.

Dr. Johnston enrolled at the Howard University College of Medicine before his honorable discharge as an Army captain in 1964, and attended classes during the day while working an overnight shift at the post office in Washington.

He completed his residency in radiology at Hahnemann University Hospital in Philadelphia, where he worked for a number of years before taking jobs at several hospitals in the region.

After Hahnemann, Dr. Johnston worked at Newcomb Hospital in Vineland, N.J.; Cooper, in Camden; Warminster, in Bucks County; and the Wilmington VA Hospital.

He next joined Marsh Radiology in Vineland, from which he retired after age 70. Even then, his daughter said, he was called back to work part-time for a few years.

He loved medicine, Jennifer said. He was a brilliant person who was drawn to medicine for many reasons, but mainly because it was a helping profession. He was proud he was able to continue working for as long as he did."

Dr. Johnston enjoyed travel, geography, reading, and spending time with family and friends.

In addition to his daughter, Dr. Johnston is survived by daughter Janice; a grandson; two brothers, and a number of other relatives, friends and colleagues. A son, Mark, predeceased him.

Funeral services were Friday, Sept. 25.
Legal experts say civil forfeiture is a form of highway robbery, in which police take money  largely from people of color  to pad their yearly budgets and those of prosecutors. Read more

Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/the Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free weekly newsletter.

This article is a collaboration with The Appeal.

HARRISBURG  Since 2017, Pennsylvania State Police has seized $608,000 in cash from drivers in the south-central region of the state, much of which was taken from people who were never charged with a crime, The Appeal and Spotlight PA have found.

Legal experts say the practice is a form of highway robbery, in which police take money  largely from people of color  to pad their yearly budgets and those of prosecutors.

Pennsylvania, like other states, allows law enforcement to seize property and keep it even if someone is acquitted of a crime or not charged at all. A 2017 law raised the burden of proof required to seize property in the state, but it is still below the standard in federal criminal forfeiture cases, where people who are acquitted can get their property back.

Regardless of what you set the standard of proof at, the problem is youve got something thats less than is necessary for a criminal conviction, said Dan Alban, a senior attorney at the Institute for Justice who researches forfeiture. Judges will frequently defer to law enforcement, and sometimes its these pretty Mickey Mouse justifications and Mickey Mouse evidence.

The Appeal and Spotlight PA reviewed 32 cases in Cumberland, Dauphin, and Franklin Counties where state police seized assets during traffic stops.

In about one-third of the cases reviewed, police seized cash from people who were never charged with a crime or even issued a traffic ticket. One-quarter of the cases resulted in misdemeanor convictions, and another quarter resulted in felony convictions.

State police spokesperson Ryan Tarkowski defended the practice, saying that the seizures and forfeitures are done in accordance with state and federal law and department regulation and that the forfeiture process is overseen by the state Attorney Generals Office.

But, as The Appeal and Spotlight PA uncovered in a previous investigation, the justifications that troopers use to stop vehicles and then conduct a search can be questionable or outright illegal. Roughly a third of all criminal cases in the region since 2016 that arose from traffic stops by the state police drug interdiction unit were thrown out of court because the searches were later deemed illegal, the investigation found. As a result of the inquiry, Gov. Tom Wolf requested the Office of State Inspector General conduct a review of all such traffic stops, which is underway.

 READ MORE: Highway stop-and-frisk: How Pennsylvania state troopers conduct illegal traffic searches

Police justified the searches in some cases by saying the driver was nervous or their carotid artery was pulsating. In one case, troopers seized $50,282 after a traffic stop and charged the owner of the vehicle, who was not present at the time. In another, they took $525 from a passenger. Judges ultimately dismissed the charges in both cases, finding the searches were illegal. The state returned the $525 but kept $20,000 in the other case.

In several other cases, police seized money and property from people whose cases were expunged after they completed a court program for first-time offenders.

Court records show in one such case that the state took a car and money from someone accused of possessing cigarettes that werent properly taxed. The Attorney Generals Office kept $24,309, including $10,000 in money orders the man said he was planning to use to pay rent for a restaurant he was starting with his brother. The state returned his car.

A legal battle few can afford

Forfeiture cases in Pennsylvania are brought against the property, meaning prosecutors file suit against items like cash, cars, or homes. The courts then require the owners to prove they have the legal basis to challenge the state, and then argue to get their property back. Since the process is handled in civil court, people seeking to get their money back are not entitled to a court-appointed lawyer.

Although the burden still lies with the attorney general to prove the money or property was used in criminal wrongdoing, its often harder for property owners to prove they did not commit a crime.

In one case, police seized $19,000 during a traffic stop in Franklin County in 2018 from a Mister Softee ice cream truck driver who said he intended to use the money for truck repairs. He was convicted in the past for possession of drug paraphernalia, and prosecutors demanded he provide a litany of evidence to get the money back, including several years of tax records, receipts of bank withdrawals, and an explanation of what legitimate use he had for the money. His forfeiture case is ongoing, and he is still trying to get his money back.

Clark Neily, vice president for criminal justice at the Cato Institute, a think tank, said innocent people often have to jump over hurdles just to get their property back.

Without a lawyer, people stand little chance. Of the 32 cases The Appeal and Spotlight PA reviewed, the state returned cash or property only when a lawyer got involved, according to case records from the Office of the Attorney General. Out of the $608,000 seized and subsequently prosecuted, the Attorney Generals Office gave back less than $60,000 after negotiating with property owners' lawyers.

Do you think you can do that yourself? Neily said. The answer is no, you cannot because youre not a lawyer, you dont specialize in this area, and you dont know the procedures.

In more than 75% of the cases, the person did not challenge the forfeiture or did not challenge it properly in order to take it to trial.

Its not very good proof

Because police might not actually see someone exchange money for drugs, oftentimes troopers will seize cash and scan it for drug residue. Prosecutors make the assumption in court that if there is a high trace amount of drugs on currency, that money could have been used to purchase or sell drugs.

But defense attorneys and legal scholars say that kind of evidence is circular reasoning because almost all currency has some form of drug residue on it.

A 2008 study by researchers at the Department of Justice Sciences at the University of Alabama found that 42% of the currency they examined had traces of methamphetamine on it. A study published a year later by researchers at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth found that roughly 90% of U.S. currency was contaminated with cocaine. Unlike many prior studies, which typically only sampled small numbers of $1 bills, it tested larger-denomination bills in higher numbers.

Danielle Brown, the chief deputy attorney general who oversees Pennsylvanias forfeiture and money laundering cases, said that there are usually other reasons cash is seized but that law enforcement can take money if it detects a trace amount of drugs that is higher than expected. The office accounts for that by comparing the bills against money already in circulation and tested by the National Guard in other parts of the state and nation.

Out of 11 cases reviewed by The Appeal and Spotlight PA in which no charges were filed, the Attorney Generals Office justified seizing peoples money after testing the cash for drug residue in 10 of them.

In one case, state police pulled over two Middle Eastern men traveling from Brooklyn to Tennessee for speeding. When the trooper asked if they had large sums of cash on them, they answered yes, and said they had the money because they were worried about their car breaking down and wanted cash for repairs. Whatever was leftover, they said, would be used for a trip for one of them to go to Egypt.

The men gave the trooper permission to search the vehicle, which turned up no contraband. The trooper then took their $10,000, tested the cash for drugs a week later, and found high levels of PCP on the currency. The Attorney Generals Office concluded the cash was used to buy or sell drugs through an unknown drug-trafficking ring.

Its not very good proof, right? said Alban, the Institute for Justice senior attorney. But if you have a judiciary that kind of rolls over and defers to law enforcement, as kind of a knee-jerk thing, then thats really all you need.

Neither man was charged with a crime or cited for a traffic violation. But because the men did not try to claim their money in court, the state was able to keep it.

Its common for people to not show up in court to claim their property, said Louis Rulli, a law professor at the University of Pennsylvania, especially people who cant afford a lawyer.

People are giving up rather than fighting the government because the amount of cash being seized, it doesnt warrant getting an attorney and fighting the government, Rulli said.

In the review by The Appeal and Spotlight PA, people of color accounted for roughly 80% of all forfeiture cases. White, non-Hispanic people accounted for only about 20% of those whose property was seized, but they make up nearly 80% of the states population.

Although carrying large sums of cash may appear suspicious, its not uncommon in communities of color, said Rulli, who researches civil asset forfeiture across the nation. Many people in these communities are unbanked or underbanked, meaning a person either has no bank account or has a savings or checking account but also uses alternative, cash-heavy services like check cashing or payday loans.

According to a 2017 national survey by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, more than half of Black and Hispanic, and roughly a third of Asian, households in the United States were either unbanked or underbanked.

I think a lot of Americans would look at this and go, Why the hell are they carrying so much cash? Obviously, theyre doing something criminal, Rulli said. But, first of all, you know, its the governments burden to prove that. But secondly, there are very justifiable reasons why particular groups may be carrying more cash. And parts of our society are much more in the cash economy where others are in the credit economy.

A financial windfall

Pennsylvania law stipulates that seized money go directly into the coffers of law enforcement agencies, creating what experts say is an incentive to take as much property as possible.

Money taken during traffic stops and then charged with forfeiture under the states drug law goes into a specific fund for combating drug trafficking.

You combine those perverse incentives with extraordinarily lax procedures, meaning a low bar for doing the initial seizure  that adds up to a policy that is rife for abuse and is demonstrably abused, said Neily, with the Cato Institute.

But the state Attorney Generals Office balked at the contention that it pursues forfeiture cases for financial gain, calling it completely false.

To effectively combat the heroin and opioid epidemic that is killing 12 Pennsylvanians a day, our commonwealth has focused efforts on stopping narcotics from being pumped into our communities by pharmaceutical companies and major drug traffickers and expanding treatment for those suffering from addiction, said Jacklin Rhoads, communications director for Attorney General Josh Shapiro. It has been well-documented that Interstate 81 is a major drug trafficking route.

But Nora Demleitner, a law professor at Washington and Lee University in Virginia who has studied and written about civil forfeiture, said the states low bar for evidence, along with the use of legally questionable traffic stops, makes the process appear to be more like state-endorsed highway robbery.

Thats really what this is, she said.

Demleitner said one of the main reforms a state could make to rein in civil forfeiture is to eliminate financial incentives and require police and the attorney general to place the money in a states or citys general fund rather than directly benefiting the police.

Thirty-five states, including Pennsylvania, allow law enforcement to keep most of the money seized. Only seven states and the District of Columbia bar police agencies from keeping any of the money they take.

Only 11 states require a criminal conviction when seizing property. Notably, in 2015, New Mexicos governor at the time, Susana Martinez, signed a bill that was unanimously passed by the state legislature to completely eliminate civil forfeiture and require a criminal conviction for forfeiture.

Rep. Chris Rabb (D., Philadelphia) recently introduced a bill that would require money obtained through civil forfeiture be put into a fund to help compensate people exonerated of crimes and their families. Currently, Pennsylvania does not provide any compensation to people who were wrongfully convicted or incarcerated.

Although there have been court decisions in the past trying to limit excessive seizures, the limits remain a legal gray area, Demleitner said.

It seems randomly in the eye of the beholder what is declared excessive and what is not declared excessive with the exception of the extreme cases, she said. I just dont know where the limit is and I dont think anybody does.

In one case reviewed by The Appeal and Spotlight PA, a state trooper seized $38,500 from a driver who had three cartons of cigarettes from Virginia in his vehicle that were not taxed in Pennsylvania as required. He was carrying the money, he said, after his sister sold her restaurant, and he was headed back where he lived in New York to deposit the money in a bank account.

State police accused the man of evading roughly $90 in taxes, and issued him $400 in fines and fees for the summary offense  akin to a traffic ticket.

In the end, the state kept the $38,500.

100% ESSENTIAL: Spotlight PA relies on funding from foundations and readers like you who are committed to accountability journalism that gets results. If you value this reporting, please give a gift today at spotlightpa.org/donate.
HOBART  Firefighters rescued two family pets from a small blaze that broke out in an attached garage Wednesday afternoon. The residents were able to make it out safely but they will be temporarily displaced form their home.

First responders were called at 1:48 p.m. to extinguish a fire at residential property on West Seventh Place in Hobart, said Hobart Fire Department Assistant Chief John Reitz.

Crews were met with heavy smoke throughout the structure and quickly worked to find the origin. The fire was contained to the attached garage and it was extinguished within a few minutes.

A dog and three cats were rescued from the home and no one was injured, Reitz said. Lake Station and New Chicago firefighters assisted Hobart crews on scene.

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Mas familias contaran con agua saludable en sus hogares. Desde #Arequipa, el presidente @MartinVizcarraC y el ministro de @viviendaperu participan en el inicio de la ampliacion y mejoramiento del sistema de agua potable y alcantarillado de Corire.

En vivo: https://t.co/gaoNGlfTd5
Hyderabad, Oct 1 : The Gramodaya Chamber of Commerce and Technology (GCOT) presented the Gramodaya Bandhu Mitra award to actor Sonu Sood here on Thursday in recognition of his work to help the poor and the needy amid the Civid-19 pandemic.

The actor was felicitated on the first day of the three-day virtual convention of GCOT, which was inaugurated by Gutha Sukhendar Reddy, Chairman, Telangana Legislative Council.

Speaking on the occasion, the actor assured the GCOT that his organisation, Shakthi Annadanam, will work with them.

GCOT Executive Chairman Vasanth Kumar Damasthapuram, also known as Delhi Vasanth, said that Sonu Sood helped hundreds of migrant workers return home safely during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The convention -- '150th Gandhi Jayanthi Utsav' -- has been organised to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, who believed in the upliftment of villages to build a progressive India.

The convention saw the launch of an integrated and comprehensive development tool -- a technology platform of village monographs.

A village monograph provides the basic information needed for planning and programme implementation, and understands the villages based on research and survey.

The speakers said the fact that the Census department surveyed only 35 villages and compiled monographs out of a total 6.5 lakh villages speaks volumes about "our apathy towards village and gram swaraj".

The prominent speakers included Nishtha Satyam, Deputy Country Representative, UN Women (India, Bhutan, Sri Lanka and Maldives), at the United Nations; Shantha Shina, Secretary, MV Foundation; S.P. Verma, Vice Chairman, Gandhi Global Family; W.R. Reddy, Former Director General, National Institute of Rural Development; V. Prakash Rao, Chairman, Telangana Water Resource; and V. Pravin Rao, Vice Chancellor, PJTSAU.

GCOT is a not for profit social enterprise founded by the Osmania University alumni and its objective is to emancipate the lives of rural dwellers.
Former Union minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal were arrested on Thursday evening during a protest against the new farms laws in Chandigarh.

Sukhbir, who is also an MP from Ferozpur, and several other party workers were detained from near Mullapur barrier in Chandigarh. Police also resorted to baton charge and used water cannons to disperse the SAD workers during a Kisan March against the farm legislations.

Putting out a tweet about her arrest, Harsimrat said they wont be able to silence us."

              ,                     Arrested for raising farmers' voice, but they won't be able to silence us.#IkkoNaaraKisanPyaara pic.twitter.com/zzFtt6TqqT  Harsimrat Kaur Badal (@HarsimratBadal_) October 1, 2020

We are being arrested for speaking out for the rights of farmers, but we are pursuing the truth and our force will not be silenced by this force," she further wrote.

The SAD, which walked out of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) over the passage of the farm bills in Parliament, took out three separate kisan marches from the three religious Takhts in Punjab to Chandigarh earlier in the day.

While Sukhbir led one of the marches which started from the Akal Takht in Amritsar, Harsimrat headed another procession which commenced from Takht Damdama Sahib at Talwandi Sabo in Bathinda.

The processions from the three Sikh Takhts were scheduled to reach Chandigarh later in the day where the SAD leadership was supposed to hand over a memorandum against the farm laws to Punjab Governor VP Singh Badnore.

Addressing the media in Amritsar, Sukhbir said his party wanted a rollback of the farm bills and that the farming community was against the black laws.

On September 17, Harsimrat Kaur Badal had quit the Union Cabinet after the SAD chief had strongly opposed the bills in the Lok Sabha, claiming the legislations will destroy" the agriculture sector in Punjab. President Ram Nath Kovind on Sunday gave assent to the three contentious bills  Farmers Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill; Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill; and Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill.
Burleigh and Morton counties closed out September with 125 newly confirmed cases of COVID-19, five more coronavirus-related deaths, and dwindling available beds in Bismarck hospitals.

The new daily data from the state Department of Health on the final day of the month Wednesday brings total cases reported during September in the two counties to 2,472 -- nearly half of their pandemic total of 5,122. Active cases in Burleigh-Morton on Wednesday totaled 959 -- an 85% increase from the beginning of the month. Burleigh continued to lead the state in active cases, with 703.

The region has seen a steady rise in COVID-19 numbers since the beginning of August, coinciding with the reopening of the economy, more gatherings of people and a large increase in testing. A task force of state and local officials has been working since Aug. 7 to try to address the spike.

Task force requests

Some members of the Burleigh-Morton COVID-19 Task Force's steering committee asked the state for access to more data at a Wednesday meeting to discuss responses to the pandemic around North Dakota. The meeting included Gov. Doug Burgum, Lt. Gov. Brent Sanford, state Chief Operating Officer Tammy Miller, and city, county and public health officials from across the state.

Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health Director Renae Moch said the steering committee members updated the governor on the task force's progress. They discussed an increase in local testing volume, the launch of the "COVID Stops Here" education campaign by Agency MABU, plans for a shelter for homeless COVID-19 patients and the distribution of resources to local businesses.

Moch and Bismarck Mayor Steve Bakken told the Tribune after the meeting that they want more data on patient numbers and health care staffing levels at local hospitals, along with the help of epidemiologists to interpret the data.

"If we're going to be trying to do all of the work locally, we need some of that data to make decisions without having to wait for it," Moch said.

Bakken added that "until we have that information, we're guessing."

Sanford Health and CHI St. Alexius employees have brought concerns about diminishing hospital capacity to the task force. The state health department's public COVID-19 dashboard lists numbers of licensed beds available statewide, but not all of those beds are staffed.

The Tribune on Wednesday asked the heath department for data on available staffed beds in Bismarck. As of Tuesday, there were 12 available beds including two intensive care unit beds at CHI St. Alexius, and three available beds but no ICU beds at Sanford, according to the data the Tribune received. Sanford announced on Tuesday that it was opening a new unit with 14 total beds, including six designated for intensive care patients.

Bakken noted that the state's goal has been to keep hospitals from being overwhelmed.

"If our hospital system is overcapacity and inundated, then we're not in the best position to work toward any of those other goals," he told the Tribune.

Moch and Bakken also said they prefer any pandemic-related mandates, such as for masks, come from the state rather than from local officials. Bakken cited frequent travel by residents as something that makes local mandates less effective.

"Doing individual jurisdictions made no sense," he said. "Mandates and things like that need to come from leadership at the top of the state or they're not going to work."

Daily data

State health officials on Wednesday reported 84 new COVID-19 cases in Burleigh, 41 in Morton and 447 statewide, raising the pandemic total to 21,846. Active cases statewide rose slightly, to 3,661.

The department reported the coronavirus-related deaths of Burleigh men in their 80s and 90s and a woman in her 70s, a Morton man in his 60s and woman in her 90s, an Emmons County man in his 80s, a Mercer County woman in her 90s and a McLean County woman in her 90s. All had underlying medical conditions, according to the state. The eight deaths brought the state total to 247.

Burleigh ended the month with 49 total pandemic deaths and Morton with 28. Nearly three-fourths of the combined total of 77 were reported in September. Deaths aren't necessarily reported the day they occur -- death certificate filings can take up to 10 days under state law.

There have been 17,938 recoveries statewide since the onset of the pandemic in mid-March, and 859 hospitalizations. Current coronavirus-related hospitalizations dropped to 89 from an all-time high of 105 early in the week.

The number of North Dakota residents tested for coronavirus at least once is at 241,484 and total tests number 636,374.

Burleigh and Morton counties are in the yellow "moderate" risk level, which is in the middle of the state's five-level color-coded system. The risk level determines what sort of coronavirus-related protocols are in place under the ND Smart Restart Plan for everything from businesses to family gatherings. The protocols are not enforced.

Fourteen other North Dakota counties are at yellow, 25 are in the green or "low" risk level and 12 are in the blue "new normal" level. The state reviews the county risk levels on a weekly basis.

For more detailed information on county risk levels and on coronavirus in North Dakota, go to health.nd.gov/coronavirus.

(Reporter Jack Dura contributed to this story.)

Reach Blake Nicholson at 701-250-8266 or blake.nicholson@bismarcktribune.com.

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Another death associated with a fire in Northern California was confirmed Wednesday, bringing the death toll from this year's unprecedented wildfire season in the state to 30.

The most recent death was that of a man who was badly burned and evacuated from the Zogg Fire in Shasta County the day the fire started, Sunday, Shasta County Sheriff Eric Magrini said.

"He was transported to a hospital, and we received word last night that he succumbed to his injuries," Magrini said Wednesday. "So, again, our condolences go out to that family."

Four people have been killed in the Zogg Fire, which has burned more than 55,000 acres and destroyed nearly 150 structures, fire officials said. It was 9 percent contained Wednesday evening.

There are 26 major fires or clusters of fires known as complexes burning across California on Wednesday, with more than 17,000 firefighters working to gain ground on the blazes, said the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, or Cal Fire.

Image: Zogg FIre (Ethan Swope / AP)

One of them is the Glass Fire, which erupted Sunday in Napa and Sonoma counties, north of San Francisco, and has burned more than 51,200 acres and destroyed more than 140 homes, according to Cal Fire. It was 2 percent contained Wednesday night.

Around 26,200 structures were threatened by the Glass Fire on Wednesday evening, according to the agency.

Between the two fires, around 48,000 people have been evacuated, Cal Fire said.

Nikki and Kevin Conant, both 52, returned to their home and wine-barrel repurposing business in Santa Rosa to find them destroyed.

"It was like a part of me is gone, burnt up in the fire. Everything we built here, everything we made here is gone," Nikki Conant told The Associated Press. They fled as trees crackled and propane tanks exploded as the blaze reached their community.

"I thought we were going to burn alive. I really did. It was horrible," Nikki Conant said.

No deaths are associated with the Glass Fire.

Story continues

The entire city of Calistoga, population around 5,000, was under an evacuation order as the Glass Fire was threatening the city, Cal Fire operations section chief Mark Brunton said in a video update.

Firefighters are "doing everything we can to prevent the fire from progressing towards the city of Calistoga," he said.

In Shasta County, where around 2,000 people have been evacuated, the sheriff pleaded for patience, telling residents eager to return that some areas are still unsafe.

Tuesday night, a tree in an evacuation zone fell on a sheriff's patrol car with two deputies inside, crushing the vehicle, the sheriff's office said. The deputies were not hurt. The car was totaled.

Some California officials have pointed to climate change in this year's explosive wildfire season. Gov. Gavin Newsom said this month that since 1980, the average temperature in the state from June to September rose from around 71 to about 74 degrees.

Five of the six largest wildfires in modern California history have occurred since August, according to Cal Fire.

The August Complex, which began in August and has burned more than 949,000 acres in Mendocino, Humboldt, Trinity, Tehama, Lake, Colusa and Glenn counties, is the largest in state history. It was 47 percent contained.

"Climate change isn't something to address in the distant future," Newsom tweeted Wednesday. "The climate crisis is here."

Since the start of this year, well over 3.9 million acres have burned in California, Cal Fire said in a daily update Wednesday. More than 7,000 homes and other structures have been destroyed.

While battling the Glass Fire on Sunday, two firefighters were forced to take cover in fire shelters because of "intense fire conditions" fueled by gusty winds, Cal Fire said Tuesday.

Neither was injured. The fire shelters were described as aluminized cloth tents that reflect heat and provide breathable air for those inside.

Oregon also faced a wildfire crisis, in which nine people died. Ten major fires were still burning in the state Wednesday, and fires have burned more than 1 million acres since the beginning of this year, according to state government agencies.

The number of acres burned this year is nearly double the 10-year average of about 557,811 acres, the Oregon Department of Forestry said.

A child also died in a wildfire in Washington state this month, officials said.
South Africa: Ndabeni-Abrahams welcomes release of spectrum dates

This story has been published on: 2020-10-01. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.

Citizens, who want to engage with government, will now have greater access to the administration - thanks to the revamped Presidential Hotline. Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Thembi Siweya, on Tuesday launched the modernised Presidential Hotline, which comes with the Khawuleza mobile app and USSD code. Currently, the toll-free hotl... See more
Spearman later added that she had spoken informally with the Florence One Board of Trustees members and all were supportive of the effort.

Once the decision to consolidate with a district is made, that district will work to determine where the students from Timmonsville High School would go.

Spearman said December or January would be the timeline for a decision on the consolidation plans, whatever they may be.

Regardless, Spearman also explained that the economics of the districts involved would make continuing to operate the high school unfeasible.

She showed a slide that indicated that it cost over $8,000 per student to operate the school.

She also said that the elementary school and the middle school would continue onward.

Spearman also added that she would like to see a person on the staff of the school where the Timmonsville High School student would be attending to handle transition issues. She also said the students would need community support.
San Franciscos office vacancy rate shot up to 14.1% at the end of September, a height it hasnt seen since 2011, as the coronavirus pandemic continued to strangle the economy and big employers kept their workforces remote.

The citys vacancy rate, including both standard and sublease listings, was up from 9.9% last quarter and 5.4% from a year ago, according to brokerage Cushman & Wakefield. The sublease vacancy rate was 7.4%, accounting for the majority of the overall vacancy for the first time, with companies like Credit Karma, Dropbox and Twitter listing available space.

There were no major leases signed, a sharp contrast to the tech-fueled boom of previous years. Pinterest canceled a 490,000-square-foot lease in Central South of Market as it plans to hire more outside the city. San Francisco faces huge uncertainty as almost all office workers continue to work from home, and return dates for some major tech companies, including most of the citys largest employers, have been pushed back until next summer. The economic devastation has been centered on downtown, as restaurants and retailers struggle and public transit sees huge ridership declines.

We had this really hard shock, said Robert Sammons, Cushman & Wakefields senior director of Bay Area research. It will continue to weigh heavily on the central business district.

Cities dependent on mass transit have been particularly hard-hit, he said, and some residents have fled to the suburbs or other states now that they can work from anywhere.

The retail environment has been irreparably harmed in downtown with the long-term absence of workers, said Colin Yasukochi, executive director of brokerage CBREs Tech Insights Center. He expects most companies to eventually return but not at a large scale until next year.

Todd Trumbull

Only 384,667 square feet of new leases were signed in the third quarter, even lower than a revised 420,846 square feet signed in the second quarter. The two quarters were the lowest activity on record based on Cushman & Wakefield data going back to the 1990s. In the third quarter of 2019, new leases totaled 1.7 million square feet.

Tenants are putting off new lease commitments and listing sublease space as they scale back growth plans.

Were still in this wait-and-see mode, Sammons said. The market is somewhat frozen until we can figure out the vaccine issue.

The biggest third-quarter lease was nonprofit OpenAIs renewal and expansion to 105,000 square feet at 575 Florida St. IBM renewed a lease of 53,000 square feet at 425 Market St. and the citys Department of Public Health leased 52,250 square feet at 333 Valencia St.

Asking rents were down 5.9% from the second quarter to $78.45 per square foot annually. With the pandemic erupting only six months ago, rents are expected to fall further, Sammons said. In the dot-com bust, they fell 63% and in the 2007-2009 recession, whose effects were felt in San Francisco even after the official end of the economic contraction, they fell 27%, said Sammons.

San Francisco officials have yet to say when nonessential offices can reopen. The city is in the states orange tier, reflecting its rate of infections and testing activity, and so could choose to let offices reopen at limited capacity under state guidelines. Counties can maintain stricter local rules, though, and San Francisco continues to limit office use.

The vacancy rate is still lower than the aftermath of the dot-com crash, when the rate hit 22.9% in 2003. Sammons expects this recession to be similar to the 2007-2009 downturn and not as severe as the dot-com implosion.

Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes

San Francisco was able to bounce back from the last recession at a faster rate than the rest of the country, and the strength of the tech industry could help the next recovery.

We do have some very profitable tech companies anchoring San Francisco, Sammons said.

Local layoff notices have fallen after surging earlier this year. The city also has a low coronavirus infection rate compared to other major cities.

Working from home will be more widely embraced even after the pandemic, said Yasukochi of CBRE, but added there was a strong desire to get back to office, especially among the younger demographic.

A continued drop in both office and apartment rents could also make San Francisco more accessible to a wider range of companies and residents, Sammons said, though the economy has also weakened.

Cities are still going to have their appeal for young people. Prices have fallen, Sammons said. There could be a resurgence.

Correction An earlier version of this story misstated when office vacancies in San Francisco last exceeded 14.1%. The recent peak was in 2011. See More Collapse

Roland Li is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: roland.li@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @rolandlisf
Press Release

1 October 2020

While many nations have lifted COVID-19-related limits on travelers, entry restrictions for international travelers in Japan remain in place. However, the Japanese government has launched a "Go to Travel" campaign to promote domestic travel and help boost local businesses. But while hotel occupancy has improved thanks to this government campaign, levels remain well below pre-pandemic levels with full recovery not expected for years.

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COVID-19 "second wave" & Go to Travel campaign impact

The Go to Travel campaign provides subsidies of up to 50 percent on transportation, hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions and shopping costs. Tokyo, however, has been excluded from this campaign due to the increasing number of COVID-19 cases in the city.

To measure the impact of the campaign and second-wave concerns in the country, it is important to first look back.

After the government pushed cancellation of all major events in the country at the end of February, March occupancy dropped to 33%. However, after the state of emergency was implemented in seven prefectures including Hokkaido on 7 April, monthly occupancy dropped even lower in April and May (14%), the lowest occupancy level for any months in STR's Japan database.

After the state of emergency ended during the last week of May, June showed a slow recovery pace with normal weekly patterns, including Saturday producing the highest occupancy level of the weekas we've seen in other markets around the globe.

On 22 July, the day after the campaign Go to Travel launched, and on 23 July, the first day of a four-day weekend, Japan reached 46% daily occupancy. However, Tokyo occupancy dropped in July due to the concerns regarding the spread of new cases.

Despite the government campaign to support domestic travel and the occupancy increase in July, August preliminary data shows lower levels similar to June due to increased concern regarding the spread of the virus.

Photo: STR

Regional markets are leading the recovery

As we've seen in other markets around the globe, regional markets in Japan are leading the recovery as Tokyo and Osaka have lagged. Resort areas that can be reached by car from Tokyo and Osaka, such as Kanto and Kansai, have seen a high Go to Travel campaign impact.

Niseko: Where does recovery stand?

Niseko has seen steady occupancy increases. On 23 July, the market posted a 51.7% occupancy level, its highest daily occupancy level since March. The market saw an occupancy increase during July thanks to the Government Go to Travel campaign.

Conclusion

Despite the Japanese government efforts to support and promote domestic travel, the country's rising COVID-19 caseloads appear to have slowed recovery.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. The Foreign Ministry of Armenia reaffirms that the only solution of Nagorno Karabakh conflict can be reached under the OSCE Minsk Group Co-chairs format, ARMENPRESS reports spokesperson of the Foreign Ministry of Armenia Anna Naghdalyan said in a press conference.

For us the format for Nagorno Karabakh conflict settlement is the OSCE Minsk Group Co-chairs format. For now the measures aimed at ceasing fire and ceasefire is a priority, Naghdalyan said.

The MFA spokesperson mentioned that this time Azerbaijans aggression against Artsakh is unique for it deliberately targets civilian population and infrastructures.

Azerbaijan, actively and overtly supported by Turkey, unleashed an aggression against Artsakh on September 27. The Defense Army of Artsakh repels the attacks of the adversary successfully, inflicting heavy losses, So far Azerbaijan has lost 90 UAVs, 12 helicopters, 181 armored vehicles, 4 aircrafts, 2 Smerch and 1 Uragan multiple rocket launch systems, 3 TOS-1A heavy flamethrower systems and 1200 manpower.

Armenia has reported 103 casualties among the military, there are also 11 civilian victims, including children. International reporters were bombed and injured on October 1. The Azerbaijani forces also targeted a civilian bus in the Republic of Armenia, Vardenis region, using an UAV. Fortunately, no one was inside the bus.

On September 29 Turkish F-16 downed Armenian SU-25 jet in the Armenian air space, killing the pilot.

Editing and translating by Tigran Sirekanyan
RALEIGH, N.C., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- West Town Bank & Trust announced today that Ross Sloan, a regional banking executive with over 30 years of experience in the industry, has joined the Bank as Senior Vice President of its Hemp Banking Division effective September 30, 2020.

Enabling West Town Bank & Trust's initiative to service hemp-related businesses was the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, which Federally legalized the production, sale and distribution of hemp and its derivatives. Thoughtfully documented compliance programs, various joint ventures and strategic partnerships, as well as investments in technology, have helped support the Bank's recent emergence as a preeminent industry leader in the hemp space. In addition, rapid growth has created an opportunity to build out an integrated financial services network of capabilities and assets to address the unique needs of its hemp customers, including technology enabled client on-boarding, payment processing solutions and dedicated client relationship managers to enhance the overall banking experience.

"The decision to add Ross to our team couldn't be more perfectly aligned with our business development strategy to expand our market share in the hemp industry," said Melissa Marsal, Chief Operating Officer of West Town Bank & Trust. "Ross balances a breadth of vast commercial banking knowledge with an ability to create and maintain truly genuine relationships with his business customers. Compliance will continue to be the focal point when on-boarding new hemp businesses, many of whom have experienced compliance-related frustrations in dealing with other financial institutions in the past. Our number one goal is to ensure a seamless and pleasant customer journey, starting from the point of engagement, and Ross will undoubtingly help make this priority a reality for our business."

Mr. Sloan's 32-year banking career includes a wealth of experience in commercial banking and management. He joined Carolina First in 2000, serving as both a Commercial Banking Manager and Market President for Western North Carolina prior to the Bank's merger with TD Bank in 2010. Mr. Sloan served as TD Bank's Regional Vice President for the Southern Mountains region and most recently as HomeTrust Bank's Market President for the Asheville region. Mr. Sloan serves as Treasurer of the ALS Association NC Chapter and a Board Member of the Rotary Club of Asheville. He is a 1986 graduate of Davidson College.

About West Town Bank & Trust

West Town Bank & Trust is a subsidiary of Integrated Financial Holdings, Inc. (OTCPK: IFHI), a North Carolina-based financial services holding company. Founded in 1922, West Town Bank & Trust is an Illinois-chartered bank headquartered in North Riverside which offers traditional banking services but selectively specializes in government guaranteed lending nationally and tailored deposit products for specific lines of business such as Hemp and CBD.

West Town Bank & Trust's primary regulators are the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation and the FDIC. Visit www.westtownbank.com to learn more.

Contact: Andrew Sheaffer, [email protected]

SOURCE West Town Bank & Trust

Related Links

http://www.westtownbank.com


On Thursday morning, Australian health authorities reported 17 new cases and two deaths in the previous 24 hours  meanwhile, in Britain there were 7,108 cases and 71 deaths  continuing an eight-week decline. It has prompted policymakers to begin loosening strict rules and allowed normal life to resume for most Australians  except that their island (also a continent in its own right) is still largely cut off from the rest of the world.
In-depth Analysis and Data-driven Insights on the Impact of COVID-19 Included in this Global Industrial Fasteners Market Report. The industrial fasteners market by revenue is expected to grow at a CAGR of close to 5% during the period 20192025.

New York, Oct. 01, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Industrial Fasteners Market - Global Outlook & Forecast 2020-2025" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p05975837/?utm_source=GNW





The global industrial fasteners market is set to display impressive growth during the forecast period. Increased diversity of substrate materials driven by continuously evolving end-user expectations and the rise of industry 4.0 and IoT are the major factors influencing the growth of the market. Innovative manufacturing, which was once a stronghold of the US and a few European economies such as France, Italy, and Germany, has expanded in emerging economies, with next-generation largescale manufacturing centers planned predominantly in the APAC region. The same is likely to be significantly complemented by an overwhelming rise in the global automation expenditure. The demand for industrial fastening solutions is driven by tremendous manufacturing and construction growth in countries such as India and China, supported by favorable demographics, large indigenous consumption, and a supportive regulatory and investment environment. The establishment of semiconductor fabs and electronic assembly units in Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and China, which involve the highest degree of innovations, is set to increase the demand for ingenious and specialty fasteners.



The global industrial fasteners market suffered a downfall during the COVID-19 crisis as most economic activities were halted during Q1 and Q2 2020. Major revenue-generating end-users of construction, automotive, machinery, and aerospace manufacturing activities were affected, leading to a decline in demand for new fasteners.



The following factors are likely to contribute to the growth of the industrial fasteners market during the forecast period:

 Advancements in CNC, Milling, and CAD

 Internationalization in Automobile Segment

 3D Printing and Usage of New Materials

 Industry 4.0 and Smart Manufacturing



The study considers the present scenario of the industrial fasteners market and its market dynamics for the period 2019?2025. It covers a detailed overview of several market growth enablers, restraints, and trends. The report offers both the demand and supply aspect of the market. It profiles and examines leading companies and other prominent ones operating in the market.



GLOBAL INDUSTRIAL FASTENERS MARKET SEGMENTATION

This research report includes a detailed segmentation by material, type, end-users, and geography. Industrial metal fasteners accounted for the largest share in 2019. These fasteners have high automotive, aerospace, construction, electronics, machinery, and consumer appliances. Manufacturing innovative products such as specialty, miniature, and hybrid fasteners to meet the changing consumer demand will complement growth. However, the substitution of metal fasteners with adhesives and tapes in bonding and NVH applications, especially in the automotive industry, is expected to hamper the growth of the industrial fasteners market.



The global automotive fasteners market is expected to reach over USD 34 billion by 2025. The adoption of fasteners in both automobile and automobile manufacturing units has grown considerably. With globalization, more foreign players are scaling up their operations and expanding their footprint in APAC and Latin American countries to benefit from favorable FDI and other corporate-friendly policies. Europe and North America are facing increased competition from APAC-based vehicle manufacturers.



The demand for threaded fasteners is likely to grow at a CAGR of over 4% during the forecast period owing to their increasing application in construction, industrial machinery, railways, cars, and motorcycle manufacturing. Innovations in design to provide better performance and vibration resistance are projected to have a positive impact on the market. Stainless steel is the most common material used for manufacturing threaded fasteners. Brass, alloy steel, and aluminum are other materials used to manufacture threaded fasteners.



Segmentation by Material

 Metal

 Non-metal

Segmentation by Type

 Threaded

 Non-threaded

 Specialty

Segmentation by End-users

 Automotive

 Aerospace

 Construction

 Industrial & Consumers Machinery

 Consumer Appliances and Furniture



INSIGHTS BY GEOGRAPHY



APAC hosts one of the most robust manufacturing industries, including automotive, construction, chemicals, defense, and aerospace. The region is home to highly enthusiastic tech-savvy professionals and a hub for millennials. Millennials account for the bulk usage of tech products and are the target audience for robotic and automation vendors, especially in B2C segments. Owing to the high demand for tech products, the market in APAC holds a key area of interest for vendors in the manufacturing sector, thus presenting high demand for vendors offering fasteners for industrial and manufacturing sectors. The consumption in the APAC region is on the rise due to its enormous population and increasing disposable incomes. China is expected to add 400 million consumers whose annual incomes are more than USD 8,000.



Segmentation by Geography

 North America

o US

o Canada

 Europe

o UK

o Germany

o France

o Italy

o Spain

 APAC

o China

o Japan

o South Korea

o India

o Singapore

 Latin America

o Brazil

o Mexico

 Middle East & Africa

o GCC

o Turkey

o Israel



INSIGHTS BY VENDORS



The global industrial fasteners market is highly fragmented, with no major vendors taking up a significant share in the market  the leading eight players account for around 20% of the market share. The number of fastener manufacturers is also considerable in manufacturing countries. For instance, Japan has over 3,000 manufacturers with manufacturing fasteners worth USD 9 billion annually. The sale, however, was nearly half of the capacity at around USD 4.30 billion in 2019. Vendors are mainly located near manufacturing centers to enable collaboration on the design and development of fasteners and other assembly products. A downturn in one of the end-market categories does likely not impact the overall market. The market is characterized by vendors that are application-specific, product-specific, or multiple-service vendors at any point in time.



Prominent Vendors

 Stanley Black & Decker

 Hilti

 ITW

 Berkshire Hathaway

 Howmet Aerospace

 LISI

 NIFCO

 Fontana Gruppo



Other Prominent Vendors

 3M

 A&G Fasteners

 A.Agrati Group

 Aoyama Seisakusho

 APL

 ARaymond

 B&B Specialties

 Wilhelm Bollhoff

 Boltfast

 Bulten

 Caparo

 CBC Fasteners

 Deepak Fasteners

 EJOT

 Ever Hardware Industrial

 Federal Screw Works

 FUCHS

 Gem-Year

 KAMAX Group

 KOVA Fasteners

 MacLean-Fogg

 Penn Engineering and Manufacturing (TINICUM)

 THE (TONG HWEI ENTERPRISE)

 Wurth Group

 Virginia Fasteners



Key Questions Answered:

 What is the expected market size of the global industrial fasteners market in 2025?

 What are the factors impacting the growth of the market?

 What are the drivers, trends, and restraints in the market?

 Who are the leading vendors and what are their market shares?

 What is the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the industrial fasteners market?

Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05975837/?utm_source=GNW



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.



__________________________

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CONTACT: Clare: clare@reportlinker.com US: (339)-368-6001 Intl: +1 339-368-6001




India on Thursday expressed serious concern over the raging military conflict between and Azerbaijan, saying there was a need to end the hostilities immediately as the situation threatens regional peace and security.

Armed forces of the two countries are fighting over Nagorno-Karabakh, a mountainous enclave, amid apprehensions that other players may also get involved in the conflict in the southern Caucasus region.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said a lasting resolution to conflict can be achieved through talks.

"We have seen disturbing reports of resumption of hostilities in the Nagarno-Karabakh region of the Armenia- border which took place in the early hours of September 27 resulting in casualties on both sides," MEA Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said at a media briefing.

He said India is concerned over the situation as it threatens regional peace and security.

"We reiterate the need for the sides to cease hostilities immediately, keep restraint and take all possible steps to maintain peace at the border. India believes that any lasting resolution of the conflict can only be achieved peacefully through diplomatic negotiations," he said.

Srivastava also said that India supports efforts by the OSCE (Organisation for Security and Co-operation) Minsk Group for a peaceful resolution of the conflict.

The OSCE Minsk Group was set up in 1992 to find a solution to the conflict between conflict between and over the mountainous enclave.

The US, France and Russia are the co-chairs of the group.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
(Newser)  The "Putin tunnel" might someday join "Potemkin village" in the lexicon. Russian President Vladimir Putin has had movable disinfectant tunnels installed at the Kremlin and his residence outside Moscow and has retreated into an "intricate cocoon of social distancing" while allowing life for ordinary Russians to largely return to normal, the New York Times reports. Anybody who comes close to Putinincluding the extremely elderly World War II veterans who joined him at a Red Square military parade in Juneis required to spend up to two weeks in quarantine at an isolated resort first. The measures were in place when Putin presided over ceremonies "designed to exude a sense of normalcy" as lockdowns were lifted in the summer, the Times notes.

story continues below

Putin, wearing a hazmat suit, visited Moscow's main coronavirus hospital in March and shook hands with its chief doctor, Denis Protsenko, but he ended his public appearances after Protsenko tested positive, the Guardian reports. Kommersant journalist Andrei Kolesnikov says Putin's work has been almost entirely remote during the pandemic and journalists have had access cut off. Critics call Putin, a former KGB spy, paranoid, although COVID cases are rising again in Moscow and the 67-year-old leader's age puts him at risk. In August, Putin said Russia had registered a safe and effective coronavirus vaccine, though Kremlin spokesman Dmitri Peskov said this week that Putin isn't ready to be inoculated yet because of "special precautionary measures." (Read more Vladimir Putin stories.)
Over 250 Dozee devices help convert ward beds into step-down ICU at Kingsway Hospital, GMC & IGMC Hospitals

Dozee, Indias first contactless remote health monitoring company based in Nagpur, has recently partnered with Kingsway Hospital, Government Medical College (GMC) and Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital (IGMC) in Nagpur to equip the hospitals with remote monitoring capabilities. Dozee has deployed 250 devices to monitor patients continuously and without the need for any physical contact from medical practitioners.

Hospitals are using Dozee to convert any bed into a Step-Down ICU to continuously monitor a patient's cardiac, respiratory cycles and oxygen saturation levels, and notify the care team of any abnormalities that may be detected before it becomes critical. Doctors & healthcare teams can monitor patients health on a single screen remotely. Custom alerts can be put on every patient, helping doctors optimize and focus on deteriorating patients and provide improved proactive care.

Dozee tracks and continuously monitors key vitals of the human body such as heart rate, respiration rate, oxygen saturation, sleep stages, stress-recovery and more with a medical-grade 98.4% accuracy. The contactless sensor, placed under the mattress captures real-time body vitals without using any external wires or touching the users body. An AI-powered, Early Warning System then converts these signals into biomarkers and uses the data to present an analysis of the patient's health.

Dozee is already being used by over 30 hospitals in India and has also been associated with the Ministry of Ayush and District Hospitals in Tamil Nadu. During the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, over 1200 Dozee devices have been deployed in over 20 quarantine centres across eight states. Dozee has so far monitored over 5000 COVID-19 patients in institutional settings, saving more than 6000 nursing hours.
Fox News' chief White House correspondent John Roberts speaking on Wednesday ((Fox News))

Fox News reporter John Roberts angrily responded to criticism from social media users, after he questioned White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany on Donald Trumps comments on white supremacy groups.

During the presidential debate on Tuesday, which was the first of the three planned before 3 Novembers election, the president was asked by moderator, Fox News host Chris Wallace, to condemn white supremacists and militia groups.

Mr Trump first attempted to avoid the question, but then name-checked the far-right white supremacist group the Proud Boys, and said: Stand back and stand by! But Ill tell you what, somebodys got to do something about antifa and the left.

Mr Roberts questioned Ms McEnany about the comments during a fiery press briefing at the White House on Thursday, but the press secretary argued that the president had condemned white supremacist groups.

She added that president Trump has condemned white supremacy more than any other president in modern history.

Some Twitter users criticised Mr Roberts for his questioning of the press secretary, and author Tim Young tweeted: John Roberts and Chris Wallace need to answer some questions to the public after their pushing of the false Trump won't denounce white nationalists story.

These are two of Fox News' top journalists and people who still tune in deserve apologies, corrections and answers.

John Roberts and Chris Wallace need to answer some questions to the public after their pushing of the false "Trump won't denounce white nationalists" story.



These are two of Fox News' top journalists and people who still tune in deserve apologies, corrections,and answers.  Tim Young (@TimRunsHisMouth) October 1, 2020

While, Douglas Ernst, a writer at the conservative newspaper The Washington Times tweeted about the exchange: Here is another embarrassing clip in which John Roberts pretends as if the president is a horrible person because he refuses to play along with some sick version of Groundhog Day.

Story continues

Here is another embarrassing clip in which John Roberts pretends as if the president is a horrible person because he refuses to play along with some sick version of Groundhog Day. https://t.co/fU9e3OIKiO  Douglas Ernst (@douglasernst) October 1, 2020

Following the press briefing, Mr Roberts, who is Fox News chief White House correspondent, told the stations Melissa Francis live on air: The press secretary would not, in a definitive and unambiguous and non-deflecting way, say that the president condemns white supremacism in all its forms and any group that espouses it.

He added that the claim is not something that I just made up! as he cited top Republican senators Tim Scott, Mitch McConnell, and Lindsey Graham, who all asked Mr Trump to condemn white supremacy following the debate.

Mr Roberts, who was at this point visibly angry, then responded to criticism he faced from some social media users for his exchange with Ms McEnany, according to The Daily Beast.

For all of you on Twitter who are hammering me for asking that question, I dont care! he said. Because its a question that needs to be asked and clearly the presidents Republican colleagues a mile away from here are looking for an answer for it too.

So stop deflecting, stop blaming the media! he added. Im tired of it!

Following Mr Trumps name-check of the Proud Boys on Tuesday evening, members of the far-right group claimed his words were an endorsement, and one prominent member wrote: Standing by sir on free speech social media site Parler.

When asked about the group by a reporter outside the White House on Wednesday, Mr Trump said: "I don't know who they are. I can only say they have to stand down and let law enforcement do their work."

However, he did not clarify what he meant by his comment for them to stand by and when asked if he welcomes their support, Mr Trump said that he wants "law and order to be a very important part of our campaign."

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Trump has given domestic terrorist groups a 'loaded gun' by refusing to condemn Proud Boys, says ex-aide

He had every opportunity: Trump aides criticised for defending presidents Proud Boys comments
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Linkedin Galih Gumelar (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Thu, October 1 2020

Several years ago, during a meeting with a group of women at an undisclosed location, former National Commission on Violence Against Women (Komnas Perempuan) commissioner Yuniyanti Chuzaifah had an experience she would never forget.

The women were victims and relatives of victims of alleged violence against civilians between 1965 and 1966, which occurred after the assassination of six military generals in an alleged coup attempt on Sept. 30, 1965, that was blamed on the now-defunct Indonesian Communist Party (PKI).

The meeting with the victims was part of Yuniyantis efforts to help them receive continued medical rehabilitation support from the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK).

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The cast of Gogglebox Australia have slammed Ellen DeGeneres' apology following allegations that her show harboured a toxic workplace.

Last month, the comedian kicked off the 18th season of her talk show by telling her audience she was 'taking responsibility' for the scandal while also squeezing in a few jokes.

But during Wednesday night's episode of Gogglebox, the cast lashed out at the 62-year-old for the 'awkward' comedic undertones in her monologue.

'She's obviously not really sorry!' Gogglebox stars have blasted Ellen DeGeneres' 'awkward' apology over her workplace bullying scandal on Wednesday

Millie Dalton explained: 'It undermines the meaning of the apology when you're just cracking jokes.'

'I feel awkward, I feel awkward watching it... I don't know if I buy it. Actions speak louder than words,' Chantal Bakac added.

Matty Fahd agreed: 'This is super awkward, knowing everyone is watching and hating you, then you have to get up there to apologise and you're obviously not really sorry.'

Matt Dalton also wasn't impressed by Ellen's apology and said: 'She's not addressing the hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of workplace complaints about her being nasty. When not one but 300 people complain, maybe there's a smell there.'

Allegations: Over the last few months, multiple staffers from The Ellen DeGeneres Show stepped forward to accuse the 62-year-old and her senior executives of perpetuating a 'toxic work environment'

Over the last few months, multiple staffers from The Ellen DeGeneres Show stepped forward to accuse the talk show host and her senior executives of perpetuating a 'toxic work environment'.

As she addressed these reports last month, she also squeezed in a few jokes.

Ellen has apologised to staff privately in a conference call.

Reaction: Matt Dalton also wasn't impressed by Ellen's apology and said: 'She's not addressing the hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of workplace complaints about her being nasty. When not one but 300 people complain, maybe theres a smell there'

THE CLAIMS AGAINST ELLEN APRIL: Ellen staffers' complain about how they've been treated during the pandemic in a Variety report which said producers left them 'high and dry' JULY 16: BuzzFeed publishes an article alleging a toxic environment including claims that; staff were fired for taking leave, including for bereavement

racism caused one employee to walk out of the job on the spot

two black female employees were told by a boss, 'Oh wow, you both have box braids; I hope we dont get you confused.'

staff told not to speak to Ellen if they saw her on set JULY 31: A second BuzzFeed article alleging more misconduct, this time of a sexual nature AUGUST: Executive producers Ed Glavin and Kevin Leman, and co-executive producer Jonathan Norman are all fired SEPTEMBER: Former household staff speak out, saying Ellen treated them 'like nothing' and lay traps like matchsticks to make sure they were dusting 'every inch' of her home Advertisement

The show also faced additional accusations of sexual misconduct when dozens of men and women accused Kevin Leman, Ed Glavin and Jonathan Norman of harassment, misconduct or assault.

The program's parent company, WarnerMedia, launched an investigation after a handful of employees went public with their grievances.

Leman and Norman denied the claims. They and Glavin were promptly suspended while Warner Bros. launched the investigation.
Panaji, Oct 1 : Five people including four from Rajasthan were arrested in a raid at a Goa beach villa, where an Indian Premier League (IPL) betting racket was busted, police said on Thursday.

Raju Singh (25), Mohit Kumar (21), Ravi Mamtani (30) and Sagar Singh Rathore (28), all from Rajasthan, and Suraj Soni (28) from Nepal were arrested during the raid at the villa at Candolim beach village in North Goa on Wednesday night, a police spokesperson said.

"They were involved in IPL betting. Cash amount of Rs 95,000 , nine mobile phones, two laptops were seized by the police during the raid," the spokesperson added.

The accused have been booked under section 3 and 4 of the Goa Public Gambling Act at the Calangute police station.
10/01/2020

Contacts for media: Nancy Cicco, 978-934-4944, Nancy_Cicco@uml.edu and Christine Gillette, 978-758-4664, Christine_Gillette@uml.edu





LOWELL, Mass.  Fania Davis, a civil rights attorney who pursued her path as a justice-seeker and healer after the murder of two of her childhood friends, will serve as UMass Lowells Greeley Scholar for Peace Studies.





A lawyer, writer and scholar, Davis will headline programs at UMass Lowell to cap a yearlong, public event series that will examine issues raised by the Black Lives Matter movement.





Davis came of age in Birmingham, Ala., amid the social and political upheaval set in motion by the civil rights movement. On Sunday, Sept. 15, 1963, white supremacists bombed the citys 16th Street Baptist Church, killing four Black girls  two of them Davis friends  and injuring 14 others. Viewed today as a watershed moment in U.S. history, the act triggered riots and public condemnation across the country. For Davis, it crystalized her commitment to social transformation, leading to decades of work as a civil rights activist and attorney, along with earning her doctorate in indigenous studies and apprenticing with traditional healers in Africa and across the globe.





Today, Davis is a founder and director of Restorative Justice for Oakland Youth (RJOY), a California-based organization that works to transform public schools and juvenile court systems through restorative-justice programs to reduce racial disparities, the public costs of school suspensions and expulsions and prison incarcerations for young people of color.





Davis joins an esteemed list of humanitarians  including Nobel Peace Prize recipients Leymah Gbowee and Tawakkol Karman  as a UMass Lowell Greeley Scholar for Peace Studies. She will be in virtual residence at the university in April, when she will lead online programs for the campus and community.





We are thrilled to have Fania Davis, civil rights leader on restorative justice, as the 2021 Greeley Peace Scholar. Now more than ever, we need her leadership in changing how we think about and practice justice, said UMass Lowell Prof. Ardeth Thawnghmung, chairperson of the Political Science Department and co-chairperson of the Greeley Scholar Board with UMass Lowell graduate Gordon Halm, executive director of the African Community Center of Lowell.





Leading up to events with Davis, UMass Lowell will present the Greeley Peace Scholar Speaker Series on Race and Social Justice. These free programs for the public will unite scholars, students and the community in discussions that illuminate the Black experience and the history and struggle for racial equality.





Sparked by the deaths of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, the Black Lives Matter protests have led to a reckoning about race. As we work toward greater justice, the Greeley Peace Scholar Speaker Series invites all in the campus and community together to build greater understanding and awareness, said Sue Kim, associate dean of undergraduate studies in UMass Lowells College of Fine Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences and member of the Greeley Scholar Board.





Programs to be held virtually through the fall semester will examine the legacy of white supremacy, voting rights and voter suppression, public memorials and more. UMass Lowell faculty experts in a variety of fields will help guide these sessions, which will feature other leading voices on these topics. All programs are free and open to the public.





Upcoming programs in the series include:





Memory and the Built Form  Thursday, Oct. 8, 11 a.m. - Artist Steve Locke will talk about his work designing memorials and how public spaces and monuments should address the history of slavery and racial violence. UMass Lowell History Prof. Michael Pierson, a U.S. Civil War expert, will lead a discussion after Lockes presentation.

Climate Change, Epidemics and Human Capital Outcomes: Who Bears the Cost of Climate Change?  Wednesday, Oct. 14, 11 a.m. -Economist Belinda Archibong will share her research on how the environment, pandemics  including the COVID-19 outbreak  and institutions give rise to unequal access to public services and diminish opportunities for all people. UMass Lowell Economics Assistant Prof. Kelly Hellman will moderate the discussion.

Speaking Out of Turn: Lorraine OGrady and the Act of Language  Thursday, Oct. 15, 12:30 p.m. -Black feminist and curator Stephanie Sparling Williams will discuss artists interpretations of racial issues, focusing on Lorraine OGrady, a critic of the New York art world in the 1970s and 1980s. UMass Lowells Kirsten Swenson, associate professor of art and design, will moderate.

Voter Suppression Then and Now: How Did We Get Here and What Can be Done?  Thursday, Oct. 22, 11 a.m. -Political scientist and award-winning author Frederick Harris will lead a discussion about race, the history of voter participation, voting rights and what needs to change in the future. Moderating the session will be UMass Lowell History Associate Prof. Elizabeth Herbin-Triant, co-coordinator of the Race and Ethnic Studies program.

The Socio-Historical Foundations of Hip-Hop Pedagogies: The Why, When, Where, Who and How  Thursday, Oct. 22, 1 p.m. -Music educator, multi-instrumentalist and performer Jarrit Ahmed Sheel, an authority on hip-hop, will lead a session on the genres history and how to teach it.

For more information about the Greeley Peace Scholar Speaker Series, members of the public should visit www.uml.edu/greeley-race





Greeley Scholars are selected for their achievements as humanitarians and their efforts promoting peace and conflict resolution at the local, regional, national or international level. A list of past scholars is available at www.uml.edu/Research/PACSI/Greeley-Scholars/About.aspx





The honor is named for the late Rev. Dana McLean Greeley, who was a longtime Unitarian Universalist minister in Concord. The Greeley Scholar Program is funded by the Greeley Endowment for Peace Studies, established with a gift from the Dana McLean Greeley Foundation for Peace and Justice and a contribution from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts via the UMass Foundation. In addition, this years programs are sponsored by UMass Lowells College of Fine Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.




Orange Shirt Day celebrations took place yesterday. Sept. 30 is a day to both honour Indigenous children who were sent away to residential schools and learn more about the history of those schools.

Indigenous communities in Fort Frances such as the Binesiwag Center for Wellness and the Weechittewin Family Services held socially distanced events and distributed cupcakes, masks, bannock and wild rice soup.

Orange Shirt Day began in 2013 in Williams Lake, B.C. at the St. Joseph Mission residential school commemoration event.

Phyllis (Jack) Webstad, a residential school survivor was at the event when she told the story of how her new orange shirt was taken away from her.

I went to the mission for one school year in 1973 and 1974. I had just turned six years old. We never had very much money, but somehow my granny managed to buy me a new outfit to go to the mission school. I remember going to Robinsons store and picking out a shiny orange shirt. It had string laced up in front, and was so bright and exciting  just like I felt to be going to school, Webstad said.

When I got to the Mission, they stripped me and took away my clothes, including the orange shirt. I never wore it again. I did not understand why they would not give it back to me. It was mine. The colour orange has always reminded me of that and how my feelings did not matter, how no one cared and how I felt like I was worth nothing.

About 150,000 Anishinaabe children attended residential schools. In 2019, the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation published the names of 2,800 children who died in residential schools, some of them were never found.

Metis, Inuit and First Nation children were removed from their homes and families, sent to residential schools and forced to speak English or French instead of their ancestral languages.

Thousands of survivors of residential schools are struggling with intergenerational trauma, post-traumatic stress disorders and addictions.

I went to a treatment centre for healing when I was 27, and have been on this healing journey since then. I finally get it, that the feeling of worthlessness and insignificance, ingrained in me from my first day at the mission, affected the way I lived my life for many years, Webstad said.

Even now, when I know nothing could be further than the truth, I still sometimes feel that I dont matter, even with all the work Ive done. Im honoured to be able to tell my story so that others may benefit and understand, and maybe other survivors will feel comfortable enough to share their stories.

The first residential school opened in 1831 in Brantford, Ontario. The last residential school closed in 1996.
A judge has temporarily halted the state health departments plan to release information on businesses linked to COVID-19 cases.

Speaking with reporters on Thursday, Gov. Tony Evers said the state planned to release the information, in response to public records requests, in the very near future.

We have an obligation to the public to obey the law in that area and we will be releasing to the people in the media that have asked for that information in the very near future, Evers said.

At the same time, Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce, the states largest business organization, along with the Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce and New Berlin Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau, filed a lawsuit in Waukesha County Circuit Court against Evers, Department of Health Secretary Andrea Palm and Department of Administration Secretary Joel Brennan, seeking to block the release of business names.

Circuit Court Judge Lloyd Carter issued a five-day temporary restraining order preventing the state from releasing any business information.

Some of the states largest business organizations have raised concern that releasing information where multiple infections have occurred would have severe impacts on companies already struggling through the pandemic.

Evers had said the state would be releasing to the media information on closed investigations into businesses where multiple positive cases of COVID-19 had occurred. He said there are no plans to include that information on the states Department of Health Services website.

Some local agencies, including La Crosse County Health Department, have publicly identified businesses linked to positive COVID-19 cases.

WMC president and CEO Kurt Bauer said in a statement that releasing the information has the potential to spread false and misleading information that will damage the brands of Wisconsin employers.

Not only could this cause significant financial and reputational harm to businesses, it would reduce the effectiveness of contact tracing, reduce the confidence level workers have in their employers and actually increase the likelihood of spreading the virus, Bauer said in a statement Thursday.

In the lawsuit, WMC alleges that releasing such information will violate Wisconsin laws requiring any person, including government actors, to keep confidential the information contained in medical records and will wantonly damage the reputations of businesses and workers.

WMC has said state law protects health care records, including the identity of a patients employer, and disclosing the names of businesses with COVID-19 cases could allow for the identification of the patients themselves. In addition, publishing employer names would violate the patient-employees privacy interests laid out in the 14th Amendment, WMC said.

Evers said he hadnt seen the lawsuit at the time of the media call and could not comment on the specifics, or on exactly what information will be provided in response to the records requests.

DHS spokeswoman Elizabeth Goodsitt said in an email on Thursday that DHS must comply with Wisconsins open records law and has received multiple requests from media outlets seeking the names and locations of where there have been COVID-19 investigations.

We are working on responding to those requests, Goodsitt said. We will not be publicly posting the names of those businesses because we do not think that has public health value.

Business organizations, including WMC, the Wisconsin Restaurant Association and Wisconsin Grocers Association, sent letters to Evers office this summer saying releasing the names of businesses where positive cases have occurred would have severe impacts on companies already struggling through the pandemic.

If you put these names out there, youre going to ruin businesses, Brandon Scholz, president and CEO of the Wisconsin Grocers Association, said Thursday. Youre going to put a scarlet C on these businesses.

DHS officials in July confirmed that the department was processing outstanding records requests pertaining to public health investigations at individual businesses to determine what information might be released.

At the time, Palm said that after conversations with different partners, the department had walked back potential plans to publicly list the names of businesses that have witnessed multiple positive cases of COVID-19.

During a Milwaukee Press Club meeting on Sept. 9, Evers said he chose not to release the list of businesses because theres some privacy things going on there.

We believe that it is information that is not public and that it is information that we need to keep in a way that not only protects the businesses, but more importantly it helps us monitor, it helps us answer the questions about outbreaks and how we deal with outbreaks and do it in a way that isnt a problem for us, Evers said last month.

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Katie Price's eldest daughter Princess was horrified after discovering what she believed was an open pregnancy test in her mum's bag.

During Katie's latest YouTube video 12 Hour Hair Transformation, the teen, 13, confronted the former glamour model, 42, on why she had the kit.

Katie had asked her daughter to help rub her feet with cream after breaking her ankles earlier this year during a freak accident.

What is this! Katie Price's eldest daughter Princess was horrified after discovering what she believed was an open pregnancy test in her mum's bag

While looking for the products, Princess pulled out the test and asked: 'One thing, why is there an open pregnancy test? I brought it just to show you that it's open.'

Brandishing the 'pregnancy test', Princess confirmed: 'An open pregnancy test!'

Katie's boyfriend, who she has been in a relationship with for four months, seemed equally shocked and said: 'What? Let's have a look at that. That's interesting, where did you you find that?'

Explain! During Katie's latest YouTube video 12 Hour Hair Transformation, the teen, 13, confronted the former glamour model, 42, on why she had the kit

However he soon explained: 'These aren't pregnancy tests. They're ovulation kits.'

Katie then admitted she had already used one after Princess revealed that there was one missing from the open pack.

Carl told Princess: 'It means that you could have a brother or sister if it's a smiley face.'

Katie added: 'That means you have to have sex when you see a smiley face.'

Helping mum out: Katie had asked her daughter to help rub her feet with cream after breaking her ankles earlier this year during a freak accident

What's this? While looking for the products, Princess pulled out the test and asked: 'One thing, why is there an open pregnancy test? I brought it just to show you that it's open'

Katie's boyfriend, who she has been in a relationship with for four months, seemed equally shocked and said: 'What? Let's have a look at that. That's interesting, where did you you find that?'

It would make sense that Katie had bought ovulation kits after revealing last week that she and beau Carl have decided to take things to the next level by trying for a baby and moving in together.

She also started dropping some strong hints that she's ready for marriage.

Speaking on new YouTube channel The Adventures Of Katie And Carl, the couple discussed their plans after she purchased an ovulation kit.

Making plans! It would make sense that Katie had bought ovulation kits after revealing last week that she and beau Carl have decided to take things to the next level by trying for a baby and moving in together

While holding onto the box Carl told his girlfriend he was 'glad that you got it. It's actually kind of cute that you got it.'

After getting over the initial shock of seeing the kit and blurting out 'for f***s sake', the hunk appeared keen on the idea of trying for Katie's sixth child, telling her that they weren't getting any younger.

Carl said: 'If we're going to make a baby then we need the ovulation kit. I'm 31 - I'm getting older. You're 42 - you're even older.

'So we need to know, don't we? I don't want to be an old dad. Do you want to be an old mum?'

Oh boy! After looking a little shocked at first, Carl soon got onboard with the idea and mentioned that they weren't getting any younger

Katie, who turned to the camera and laughed as her cheeky beau referenced her age, joked: 'I already am - but I'd like to be older.'

Carl then went on to say: 'It's a really good idea, Kate. Did you get this today [the ovulation kit]? And why did you buy this?'

Katie, who later revealed they've 'talked about a lot of things', replied: 'For the same reason you said, because of our discussions we've had.'

He said: 'Our discussions about having kids. This is important because if you're coming to move in, we're taking steps.'

Katie also dropped some heavy hints that she's ready for marriage number four during the video.

Big commitment: Katie also surprised her boyfriend with a Wedding Day Yankee Candle, dropping a not so subtle hint that she was ready to exchange vows

Bold: After giving Carl his cheeky gift, Katie agreed that if it had been a leap year she would have already proposed to her boyfriend of three months

After presenting the ovulation kit, Katie handed another bag to Carl which contained a Yankee Candle called Wedding Day.

Laughing at the find, Carl said: 'If it was a leap year, would you have asked me to marry you already?'

Not pausing for a second, Katie responded: 'Yes, without a doubt. Because I know you're the right one.'

And it seems Carl has been a fan of his girlfriend's for some time as he revealed the four things he wanted Katie to bring to his Essex home were mostly Jordan related.

Loved-up: The couple explained that they'll be moving in together at Carl's Essex home but still staying at Katie's abode when she has all of her five children

While unpacking their car Carl held up the 2004 Jordan calendar which he said 'all blokes will know to be an essential item'.

As well as the throwback calendar from Katie's glamour model days, two huge canvas pictures of the star were also brought into their new home,

Carl said: 'I don't want to date Jordan, I just like to look at her.

'It feels like I'm 15 again, had them all [the calendars], just different versions. Now I feel like I've gone back again and I've again got Jordan on my wall.'

Katie then asked her beau 'how does it feel having the person in the pictures living with you?' to which an enthusiastic Carl replied: 'I'm over the f*****g moon.'

Happy: After chatting about trying for a baby and marriage the pair shared a sweet kiss and got on with moving in Katie's belongings

Explaining their home set-up, Katie said she still has her house and will stay there when she has all her five children with her.

Talking about the move in, Carl joked: 'This is where I sign my life away, because she'll be here 24/7 now.'

Katie and Carl have been dating for four-months now and it was claimed on Monday that they beauty is 'rushing through' her divorce so she's free to marry again.

A source told The Sun: 'She's asked her team to rush it through, whatever it takes... She's keen to end the marriage so she's free to marry Carl if he proposes.'

The model married husband number three, former stripper Kieran, in 2013 and the pair share children Jett, seven and daughter Bunny, five. They split in May 2018.

'Essential': One of Carl's must-have-items of Katie's to be moved into the house was her Jordan 2004 calendar, which he said he had other year's versions off as a teenager

Joker: The former glamour model sat in her wheelchair and laughed as Carl reminisced over her Jordan days

Throwback: A huge canvas of Katie's face was carried up the stairs by Carl in his Essex home

During their marriage Katie accused him of cheating with her best friend of 20 years, Jane Pountney, as well as sleeping with pal Chrissy Thomas and nanny Nikki Brown.

Kieran said in March that their divorce was close to being finalised, but it is thought proceedings slowed when Katie went to The Priory.

A representative for Katie confirmed that the star is set to sign her divorce papers this week, but denied she was 'rushing the process'.

They added that the mother-of-five is 'excited' about what her future holds with new beau Carl. MailOnline has also contacted Katie's representative for a comment.

Youngest two: Katie shares son Jett, seven and youngest daughter Bunny, five, with former stripper Kieran Hayler, 33, who she married in 2013

In addition to eldest son Harvey, the media personality shares Junior, 15, and Princess, 13, with first husband Peter Andre, 47, to whom she was married to from 2005 until their divorce in 2009.

Katie also shares son Jett, seven and youngest daughter Bunny, five, with former stripper Kieran Hayler, 33, who she married in 2013.

The mother-of-five was also married to cage fighter Alex Reid, 45, from 2010 until 2012, but the couple did not welcome any children together.
BERLIN  Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who is recovering in Germany after being poisoned in Russia, said in comments published Thursday that only Russian President Vladimir Putin could have been behind the attack against him with a Soviet-era nerve agent.

Navalnys supporters have frequently maintained that the poisoning could have only been ordered at the top level, although the Kremlin has repeatedly dismissed the allegation. German officials have said labs found traces of a chemical agent from the Novichok family in the Russian politicians system.

Navalny, a corruption investigator who is Putins fiercest critic, was flown to Germany two days after falling ill on Aug. 20 on a domestic flight in Russia. He spent 32 days in the hospital, 24 of them in intensive care, before doctors deemed his condition sufficiently improved for him to be discharged.

He has posted frequent comments online as his recovery has progressed, but in his first interview since the attack, he told Germanys Der Spiegel, I assert Putin was behind the crime, according to an English-language copy of his comments the magazine published online.

I have no other explanation for what happened, Navalny, 44, said.

He asserted that his poisoning with a Novichok nerve agent only could have been ordered by the heads of Russias military, domestic, or foreign intelligence agencies, officials who cannot make a decision like that without being instructed by Putin. They report to him.

The Kremlin on Thursday said that such accusations against the Russian president are absolutely groundless and unacceptable.

Some of these statements in the mentioned publication we consider offensive, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

Peskov charged that there was information that specialists from the CIA were working with Navalny these days and giving him instructions.

There is information that these instructors are working with him these days, Peskov said. Instructions the patient is receiving are obvious. We have seen such lines of behavior more than once.

Russias United Nations ambassador Vassily Nebenzia told reporters that Navalnys claim is inherently insulting.

In response to Peskovs comments, Navalny on Thursday announced that he would sue the Kremlin spokesman and demanded that the alleged evidence of him working with the CIA be made public.

If the authorities, on behalf of which Peskov speaks, have evidence of the nonsense he is talking about, then its a matter of Russias state security, and I demand that this evidence be published, Navalny said in his blog.

Before he was transferred to Berlin for treatment, Navalny spent two days in a coma in a hospital in the Siberian city of Omsk, where Russian doctors said they found no trace of any poisoning.

German chemical weapons experts determined that he was poisoned with the Soviet-era Novichok, the class of nerve agent that Britain said was used in a 2018 attack on former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter in Salisbury, England. Labs in France and Sweden corroborated the German findings.

Navalny told Der Spiegel that when he first fell ill on the plane he was taking from Siberia to Moscow, he was sure he was dying as he collapsed to the floor.

Then I hear voices growing ever quieter, and a woman calling: Dont leave us! Dont leave us! Then its over. I know Im dead, he said in the interview. Only later would it turn out that I was wrong.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel called the poisoning an attempted murder and she and other world leaders have demanded that Russia fully investigate the case.

Merkel had personally offered Germanys assistance in treating Navalny, and the politician said even though he had no real previous contacts with the country, Germany has become a special country for me. He said he had rented an apartment in Berlin to use as he recovers.

Merkel visited him in the hospital before he was released, which Navalny said was totally unexpected, but a pleasant surprise.

We didnt discuss anything secret or sensational. The visit was a gesture, he said. I was impressed by how precisely she knows Russia and my case, adding: She knows some of the details better than I do.

And when you talk to her, you understand why she has been at the top in Germany for so long, Navalny said of Merkel. I thanked her for her efforts and she said: I only did my duty.'

Russia has bristled at demands for an investigation, saying that Germany needs to share medical data in the case or compare notes with Russian doctors. Germany has noted that Russian doctors have their own samples from Navalny since he was in their care for 48 hours.

The Hague-based Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons has collected independent samples from Navalny for testing, but results havent yet been announced.

Navalny scoffed at the Russian demands for tests and blood samples, saying there should still be plenty of my blood in Omsk.

Theyre naturally not interested in dealing with the matter as such. All they care about is painting the German government in the worst possible light, he told Spiegel. The next thing theyll do surely is accuse Angela Merkel of having personally poisoned me with Novichok.

The magazine described Navalny as joking and alert in the interview, but said his hands shook so much it was difficult for him to drink from a bottle of water. He also reiterated what his team has previously said  that he planned to return to Russia when he was able to do so.

Not going back would mean that Putin has won and achieved his goal, and my job now is to remain the guy who isnt afraid, Navalny said. And Im not afraid! When my hands shake, its not from fear  its from this stuff. I would not give Putin the gift of not returning to Russia.

___

Litvinova reported from Moscow
By AFP

LONDON: A British judge on Thursday said she would rule on January 4 next year on whether to extradite WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange to the United States.

Judge Vanessa Baraitser adjourned the case after hearing four weeks of evidence, and remanded the 49-year-old Australian in custody until an administrative hearing later this month.

Assange faces 18 charges in the US relating to the 2010 release by WikiLeaks of 500,000 secret files detailing aspects of military campaigns in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Evidence in the extradition hearing at London's Old Bailey court ended on Thursday.

But judge Baraitser had earlier agreed to a request from Assange's lawyer Edward Fitzgerald for more time to prepare his closing arguments.

Fitzgerald claims the move to extradite his client is politically motivated under President Donald Trump and that circumstances may change after the US election.

Washington claims Assange helped intelligence analyst Chelsea Manning to steal the documents before exposing confidential sources around the world.

If convicted, Assange -- who has been held at London's high security Belmarsh Prison for the last 16 months -- could be jailed for up to 175 years.

The extradition hearing is the latest in a series of legal battles faced by Assange since the leaks a decade ago.

In 2010, he dodged an attempt to extradite him to Sweden to face questioning over sexual abuse accusations by claiming political asylum in Ecuador's embassy in London.

For seven years he lived in a small apartment in the embassy, but was turned over to British police in April 2019 after a change of government in Quito.

Supporters of Assange, including his fiancee and the mother of his two young sons, Stella Moris, gathered outside the Old Bailey court in central London, to call for his release.

They have included the fashion designer Vivienne Westwood, the Chinese artist Ai Weiwei, and Assange's father, John Shipton.

Many held placards reading "Stop this political trial" and "Free Julian Assange".

Moris thanked campaigners and said the extradition hearing was "a fight for Julian's life, a fight for press freedom and a fight for the truth".

"Over the past four weeks the true nature of this prosecution has come to light. Julian is being punished for performing a public service that we have all benefitted from," she said.

"He is in prison because he informed you of actual crimes and atrocities being committed by a foreign power."

She said lawyers for the US government had accepted it had no evidence that anyone had come to harm because of what WikiLeaks published.

"The US administration is trying to make normal journalistic activities, which are entirely legal in this country, an extraditable offence," she added.
ALBANY  The state has launched a mobile contact tracing app that will notify New Yorkers if they've potentially been exposed to a COVID-19-positive person, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo announced on Thursday.

The app is called COVID Alert NY.

What this app will do is it will tell you if you were within six feet of a person who tested positive, and if you were within six feet (of someone) who tested positive for 10 minutes," Cuomo said in a briefing on Thursday morning.

Here's how it works: If a person using the app spends 10 minutes within six feet of you, your phones will swap random codes to remember the contact. According to the Cuomo administration, the codes don't record anything about the individual or their location. If one of the app users tests positive for the virus within the next few days, the app will send the other person an alert.

The app also features a "health log" option that lets someone track their health by storing a log of any symptoms. The app asks users whether they are experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, a headache, fever or sore throat, and also for information including their county of residence, age range, and ethnicity.

The logs, which the Cuomo administration says are kept anonymous, help researchers understand how the virus is affecting New York. The app also provides the latest information about the percentage of the population in both New York and individual counties that have tested positive.

The app was designed with the help of Larry Schwartz, a former top aide to Cuomo who is now extensively assisting the governor in fighting the pandemic in a volunteer capacity. Schwartz told reporters that the initiative was an "enhancement to traditional contact tracing" meant to minimize community spread of COVID.

The app's code is open source, Schwartz said, so anyone can look at how the program actually works. It does not collect data or track people, he said.

"The key to this is to get people to volunteer to download the app," Schwartz said.

Nominate your favorite people and places now Its the 25th anniversary of our Best of the Capital Region readers survey. Nominate your favorite people, places and businesses between Jan. 21 and Feb. 4.

Apple, Google and the Linux Foundation were helpful in developing the app. But Cuomo said the companies do not have access to user's personal information and that the app has been reviewed by a "host of experts" to ensure there were not privacy concerns. Besides Schwartz, Cuomo also in particular credited former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, whose charity funded has extensive contract tracing efforts. Schwartz said the app's creation cost about $700,000 and was paid for using federal funds and money from Bloomberg Philanthropies.

The app is available in the top six languages spoken in New York.

Check out the app, COVID alert, Im going to download it right now," Cuomo said.
Simon Harris met the presidents of the country's universities today to discuss the implications of the errors in the system.

An external review is expected to be completed at the weekend, which would allow the CAO to start processing the revised results next week, with Minister Harris saying he expects the overwhelming majority of students to be offered the course they are entitled to.

However, despite the assurances from Mr Harris and Minister for Education Norma Foley, many students have been left confused as to whether they will be affected by the errors and what the knock-on effect will be on third-level places.

What was the issue?

The issue was to do with the computer coding used to calculated the Leaving Cert grades. The coding, provided by Polymetrika International, had an error in one line of code, which was discovered following an independent review by the company.

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The Department of Education was informed of the error by Polymetrika, prompting them to carry out their own checks, in which they discovered a second error.

The issue related to Junior Certificate results, which were taken into account as a measure of each student's past performance in school. The first issue saw Junior Cert results from Civics, Social and Political Education (CSPE) being taken into account for some students, despite it being decided that this grade would not be considered.

The second issue related to the consideration of non-core subjects, the core subjects being English, Irish and Maths. Each student's best two non-core subjects were supposed to be factored in by the system, however the error caused some students' two worst non-core subject results to be taken into account, causing them to be marked down in some instances.

How many students have been affected?

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Minister Foley said the errors have impacted somewhere in the region of 6,500 students. Ms Foley said the students concerned have received one grade lower in at least one subject.

More students have been impacted by the errors, but as the resulting grade achieved was the same or higher, the students will not be penalised and will be allowed to maintain the calculated grade given to them on September 7th. Therefore, no student that already has a college place needs to worry about losing their spot- they will maintain it regardless of the error.

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The real issue is now how the grading errors will impact on college places. With two rounds of the CAO already closed, thousands of Leaving Certificate students have already accepted college places, with classes having resumed in the majority of third-level institutes.

As the correction of the grade will see the 6,500 students receive at least one higher grade, that may impact what course they were entitled to in the CAO, i.e. if their points increase, they may qualify for a course higher up on the CAO preference list.

Many third-level courses have already been filled in the earlier rounds of the CAO, meaning there is not room for additional students who may now be entitled to a place in a full course because of the grading errors.

How will a student know if they have been impacted?

According to Minister Foley, students affected by the errors will be notified by text message in the coming days. They will be instructed to go to the online portal to view their amended results.

How will the students be offered the places they are entitled to?

Minister Foley ensured students that if they are entitled to receive an offer for a course higher up their CAO preference list, they will receive an offer.

If a student has been impacted but is subsequently offered a place in a different course, they can decide to turn down the offer and stay in their current course.

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Checks are currently being run to determine what students have been impacted and in what way. Once the finalised results have been corrected, the information will be passed to the CAO, who will contact students as required regarding any offers they may be entitled to.

However, due to limited numbers of spaces available in some courses, some students may need to defer as there will not be room for them in this year's class.

Earlier today, Ms Foley said the maximum number of places will be made available in order to ensure as many students can start their studies this year as possible, estimating that up to 1,000 extra places will be needed in third-level institutes around the country.

When did they know about the errors?

Speaking at Wednesday's conference, Minister Foley confirmed that she was made aware of the errors on Tuesday of last week.

Ms Foley said she then informed the Department of the Taoiseach last Wednesday.

Green Party leader Eamon Ryan said he was made aware of the issue last Friday, while many other members of Cabinet were only briefed on the topic on Tuesday.

What about the written exams?

The postponed Leaving Cert is still an option for all of this year's students, who may chose to take the written exams regardless of whether they received calculated grades.

If a student received calculated grades and also chooses to sit the written exam, they will receive the higher mark of the two.

The deadline for applying to sit a written exam was due to be October 2nd, however this has been extended, but the Department of Education is yet to announce the new deadline for applications.

What may be to come?

The issue will have a far-reaching impact on the CAO system and college places, with many third-level institutes already operating at a higher capacity level due to the 5,000 extra place announced by Minister Harris over the last few months.

Students who may have to defer college for this year due to courses being full may have a case against the State, having missed out on their third-level entitlement through no fault of their own.

The issue may also be worsened by grade increases that may come due to the appeals process and any grade increases achieved in the written exams in November.

Also, the number of students deferring their college places until next year will impact the number of places available for the Leaving Cert class of 2021, continuing the saga.
Chennai, Oct 1 : Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K. Palaniswami on Thursday launched 'one nation, one ration card in the state by handing over the essential items to three card holders at the state secretariat.

According to the government, essential items are supplied to all the families holding electronic cards in the state from 2017 onwards.

The card holders can buy their allotment of essentials from any ration shop in the state.

Under the central government's Integrated Management Public Distribution System, ration card holders who move from one state to another can buy their allotment anywhere in the country.

Tamil Nadu government is implementing the 'one nation, one ration card' scheme from Thursday onwards in 32 districts and from October 16 Thoothukudi, Madurai, Thanjavur, Virudhunagar, Ramanathapuram and Thiruvannamalai districts will be brought under the scheme.

According to Tamil Nadu government, those who come to the state and those who got out can get their essentials after Biometric Authentication.
Hundreds of riot officers were seen patrolling the streets of Hong Kong today

They stopped and searched those attending a banned anti-government march

At least 60 people have been arrested for attending the 'unauthorised assembly'

Comes as pro-Beijing leader Carrie Lam has hailed the city's 'return to stability'

Thursday marks the start of eight-day celebrations for China's National Day

Hong Kong police have arrested at least 60 people on suspicion of unauthorised assembly on Chinas National Day holiday after crowds gathered on the streets of a popular shopping district chanting pro-democracy slogans.

Riot police have flooded the streets of Hong Kong to stamp out anti-government protests during China's National Day celebrations as pro-Beijing leader Carrie Lam has cheered the city's 'return to stability'.

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Hundreds of officers in riot gear were seen on Thursday patrolling and heckling pro-democracy activists who were attending a banned march against a sweeping national security law imposed by Beijing.

The city's heightened security comes after its Chief Executive Lam participated in a flag-raising ceremony with other senior Hong Kong and mainland officials today to celebrate the Communist regime's 71st anniversary.

Hundreds of officers in riot gear are seen on Thursday patrolling and heckling pro-democracy activists who were marching against a sweeping national security law imposed by Beijing

Groups of officers in riot gear conducted stop-and-search operations along an expected marching route linking the prime shopping district of Causeway Bay with the administrative Admiralty district. The picture shows a protester arguing with officers in Hong Kong today

Hundreds of officers in riot gear are seen on Thursday patrolling and heckling pro-democracy activists who were marching against a sweeping national security law imposed by Beijing. A police officer displays a warning banner on China's National Day in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong

The heightened security comes as its leader Lam (pictured) attended a flag-raising ceremony with Chinese officials on Thuesday to celebrate the Communist regime's 71st anniversary

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'Over the past three months, the plain truth is, and it is obvious to see, that stability has been restored to society while national security has been safeguarded, and our people can continue to enjoy their basic rights and freedoms,' Lam said.

As she spoke, groups of officers in riot gear conducted stop-and-search operations along an expected marching route linking the prime shopping district of Causeway Bay with the administrative Admiralty district.

Protesters wanted to march against Beijing's imposition of a sweeping national security law on June 30 and demand the return of 12 Hong Kong people China arrested at sea in August on their way to self-ruled Taiwan.

But authorities had denied permission for a protest march this year, citing security concerns and an anti-coronavirus ban on more than four people gathering in public.

Carrie Lam has today attended a flag-raising ceremony (pictured) with other senior Hong Kong and mainland officials to celebrate the Chinese Communist regime's 71st anniversary

Police officers search protesters during a banned rally on China's National Day in Hong Kong

Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam is pictured attending the flag-raising ceremony at the Golden Bauhinia Square to mark the 71st anniversary of Chinese National Day in Hong Kong

Hundreds of officers in riot gear are seen on Thursday patrolling and heckling pro-democracy activists who were marching against a sweeping national security law imposed by Beijing. Police officers put up a banner telling people to disperse during China's National Day

At the 2pm start time of the planned illegal protest, there was little sign of crowds gathering, although streets were crammed with riot police and reporters.

Police sent away any people who looked suspicious to them: one teenager playing protest songs into a woodwind instrument; a man dressed in black and holding a yellow balloon  colours associated with pro-democracy supporters; a woman holding a copy of the Apple Daily anti-government tabloid.

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Police were seen rounding up more than 50 people downtown and binding their wrists with plexicuffs before putting them on buses. Police said in a Facebook post that they were looking for two men who threw petrol bombs to bloc traffic in another area of the city.

Those arrested included two district councillors, police said, They added that the people were arrested after they ignored repeated warnings asking them to disperse.

'Hong Kong people have been sad and disappointed for a year. This is meant to be a holiday and the streets are full of police,' said 52-year-old Mandy as she was shopping with her husband.

'People are in no mood to celebrate. The government is using the national security laws and the pandemic to suppress our hearts.'

Late on Wednesday, police said they had arrested five people for inciting participation in illegal assemblies online.

Police check pedestrians during China's National Day in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong today

Protesters wanted to march against Beijing's imposition of a sweeping national security law on June 30. The picture shows a pro-democracy protester wearing a 'Free Tibet' T-shirt is surrounded by police during China's National Day in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong on Thursday

Anti-government protests, which often turned violent in 2019, have been smaller and fewer this year due to coronavirus restrictions on group gatherings and fears of arrest under the new security law. A young couple is stopped by police for checking during China's National Day

Anti-government protests, which often turned violent in 2019, have been smaller and fewer this year due to coronavirus restrictions on group gatherings and fears of arrest under the new security law.

The law punishes anything China considers as subversion, separatism, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison and gives police and Chinese security agents broad powers

Four members of the League of Social Democrats, led by veteran activist Leung Kwok-hung, known as Long Hair, marched holding a banner reading 'There is no national day celebration, only national mourning.' Four is the maximum number of people allowed to gather under coronavirus restrictions.

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A sore point for democracy supporters has been the capture of 12 Hong Kong people by Chinese authorities, now in detention in the mainland city of Shenzhen, having been arrested for illegal border crossing and organising cross-border crimes.

Pro-democracy activists are surrounded by police officers as they march toward a flag raising ceremony in Hong Kong on China's National Day. The banner reads 'Stop One Party Ruling'

The heightened security comes as its leader Lam has today attended a flag-raising ceremony with other senior Chinese officials to celebrate the Communist regime's 71st anniversary

Helicopters fly the flags of China and Hong Kong Special Administrative Region during a flag-raising ceremony marking China's National Day at Golden Bauhinia Square in Hong Kong

All were suspected of committing crimes in Hong Kong related to last year's protests.

Their arrest has compounded the fears of many in Hong Kong about what they see as Chinas determination to end any push for greater democracy in the financial hub.

The October 1 Chinese National Day is resented by many democracy supporters who say Beijing is eroding the wide-ranging liberties the former British colony was promised when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997.

For pro-Beijing supporters, it is an opportunity to drum up patriotism in China's most restive city.

At the flag-raising ceremony, Lam praised China's success in curbing the coronavirus and its economic recovery, calling it 'a rare bright spot' which 'has shown once again the shift of the global economic focus from the West to the East.'
A request to undertake a Ward Boundary Review in New Tecumseth and investigate reducing Council from 10 to an uneven number was shot down 5-4 on Monday evening.

Deputy Mayor Richard Norcross brought the motion forward in light of the Provincial government asking Municipal and County governments to reduce their size and composition.

Their philosophy is less is better, he said.

An independent Ward Boundary Review was last conducted locally in 2009, which was the first one completed since the Towns inception in 1991.

We could reduce the size of Council, pass on the savings to the residents, look for more efficiencies, make sure we have effective representation by population and account for future growth, said Norcross.

But, of course, the Provincial government has the authority to change municipal council compositions, so my feeling is why wouldnt we want to do it ourselves instead of others trying to make those decisions for us? A classic example would be the Toronto Council.

Simcoe County Council proposed a reduction from 32 to 16 Councillors earlier in the year, which was also shot down.

Ward 4 Councillor Fran Sainsbury said she attended Council meetings in New Tecumseth from 2009-2010 to get familiar with local issues before running for office. She said at that time Norcross moved the motion to go from nine Councillors to 10.

Norcross said he made the decade-old decision using information Council had at the time, based on reports and staff recommendations. He noted that now things have changed.

Sainsbury voted against the new motion for a Ward Boundary Review, noting an internal review was conducted for the 2018 election, so shed prefer to save the money that would be used hiring a consultant to conduct the review for 2022.

Norcrosss motion stated the funds for the review would come out of the Tax Rate Stabilization Reserve, which is sourced from this years surplus.

I dont like to take money out of reserves right now for that particular purpose, said Sainsbury.

I would really like for this 2022 election to leave the formation of Council as it is. Weve only ever had one hot button issue thats ever been tied, everything else just seems to sail through.

Ward 7 Councillor Shira Harrison McIntyre agreed with Sainsbury in that a Ward Boundary Review was done for the 2018 election which took up significant staff hours and some funding.

The taxpayers and residents came out and spent their time making comments on this, so putting it back to them a couple of years later seems redundant, she noted.

The exercise was done and the wards were evened up and I just dont understand why during a pandemic, when theres so many concerns, and why during a time of growth in our town we are starting to look at this again.

Harrison McIntyre said what she hears from residents is concerns about the safety of their roads and thats the business that Council should focus on.

Ward 2 Councillor Michael Beattie said he disagreed with Harrison McIntyres statement regarding the internal boundary review conducted in 2018 and was heavily disappointed with that process.

I wont call it a Ward Boundary Review, that one doesnt count, that was a massacre, it was a disaster, he quipped.

The reason it was a disaster was because politics and personalities were injected into it, so Im certainly supportive of doing one of these, on two conditions it be funded by a surplus or operating budget rather than reserves and that this be completely independent from start to finish.

We should not be involved in this if were deciding on jobs and numbers and things like that, Beattie added.

Ward 6 Councillor Stephanie MacLellan noted that the Ward Boundary Review conducted in 2009 recommended that the 2018 term of Council conduct another one by a professional consultant for a new composition of Council in 2022.

I believe if memory serves me correctly, every other municipality in Simcoe County has an odd number of Council members and I think its glaring that we dont, she said.

I think that we are all capable of taking on another 500-2,000 people if necessary but I think that we definitely need to have a professional look at our ward boundaries and see if they continue to meet the needs of the residents.

Ward 3 Councillor Paul Foster said he doesnt like consultants due to their high costs, but understands the need to reassess the Towns ward system.

As much as Im opposed to consultants in a general nature, this is one aspect where I can get behind it and support it, he noted.

Since the motion was defeated and wont move forward, New Tecumseth Council will likely be unable to change its Ward Boundary for the election in 2022.

The review and any appeals have to be complete by December 31, 2021, which is a tight timeline as consultants for this type of work are tied up since all of Ontarios municipalities have the same deadlines, noted Town Clerk Cindy Maher.
Wisconsin Judge: School District Cant Hide Students Transgenderism From Parents

A Wisconsin judge has ordered the second-largest school district in the state to halt controversial guidelines encouraging schools to conceal students transgender behavior and related medical records from their parents.

A group of 14 parents, represented by conservative legal groups Alliance Defending Freedom and Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty, sued Madison School District in February over its guidance regarding transgender students. The parents said in the lawsuit that the district has violated their rights by not telling them, among a number of other things, if their children have adopted a different name at school.

In the Sept. 28 order (pdf), Judge Frank Remington of Dane County said no school district may enforce a policy that allows staff to conceal information or to answer untruthfully in response to any question that parents ask about their child at school, including information about the name and pronouns being used to address their child at school.

The injunction will remain effective while the lawsuit challenging the districts guidelines moves through the court.

According to the guidelines (pdf), the districts employees, including those in preschools, are expected not to disclose any information that may reveal a students gender identity to others, including parents or guardians and other school staff, unless legally required to do so or with the students consent.

The Gender Support Plan, as a part of the guidelines, is an agreement signed between a student wishing to come out as transgender and the school, which will respect the students preferred name, pronouns, and their need to access restrooms, locker rooms, and other activities that align with their gender. The school will also not inform parents of those changes, regardless of the students age.

Whether a child with gender dysphoria should socially transition to a different gender identity is a highly controversial and consequential decision, the February complaint (pdf) read, and is therefore the type of decision that falls squarely within parental decision-making authority.

The suing parents also said that by encouraging teachers and staff to actively deceive parents, the district has directly interfered with their right to guide their children through difficult and potentially life-altering decisions, since they cannot adequately address issues of which they are unaware.

It should go without saying that school district staff should be honest with parents, especially when it comes to critical matters concerning their children, but we are pleased that the court has issued an order now requiring it, ADF Senior Counsel Roger Brooks said in a press release. As this case moves forward, we will continue to argue for our clients legitimate concern over the Madison Metropolitan School Districts policy of deceiving parents and excluding them from profound decisions involving the well-being of their own children.
Spending continues to be less as people who are getting direct benefits from the government are choosing to save in the current situation.

The finance ministry is reassessing its earlier optimism about a V-shaped economic recovery as people are spending less owing to extreme uncertainty induced by the Covid-19 pandemic.

We keep devising projections based on high-frequency indicators.

"The progress seems gradual, and not necessarily it would follow our previous assessment of growth trajectory, a senior ministry official told Business Standard.

Most ratings agencies and organisations have revised further downwards their projections for Indias gross domestic product (GDP) for 2020-21 since the government released the data for the first quarter, which showed the biggest contraction on record.

The finance ministry in its monthly economic review last month had said the country was witnessing a V-shaped recovery, and attributed the steep 23.9 per cent contraction of the economy in the April-June quarter to the stringent coronavirus lockdown.

The official said the August pattern was based on indicators such as automobile and tractor sales and e-way bills, which had witnessed better performance and growth after the Unlock process was announced.

However, spending continues to be less as people who are getting direct benefits from the government are choosing to save in the current situation.

As part of the (Covid) stimulus package, the government has transferred a significant chunk of cash, but that has not been spent by the beneficiaries.

"This shows people are more focussed on saving due to uncertainties," the official said.

On the second round of stimulus package, he said work was in progress and inputs had been sought from all the departments.

Without divulging the details of the new stimulus, the senior bureaucrat said the government was waiting for Covid-related health concerns to abate first.

The first round of fiscal stimulus included measures like extra spends of at most Rs 2 trillion, constituting just 1 per cent of the GDP.

Among the major economies, India witnessed the steepest decline in GDP growth in the April-June quarter following the outbreak of the pandemic.

However, some of the sectors pointed to a recovery in activity.

As to why did the ministry emphasise on a V-shaped recovery, another finance ministry official said, When you look at indicators such as e-way bills, power consumption, cement, steel consumptions, railways freight, all these, after the decline in the months of April and May, have recovered to 85 to 95 per cent levels.

"If you look at high-frequency indicators, there is a recovery happening.

"And what is V? It is basically a decline and then a recovery.

"At the same time, it is happening in the manufacturing sector and not yet in the service sector.

Striking a different note from the finance ministry's then stance, Reserve Bank of India Governor Shaktikanta Das had said economic recovery was likely to be gradual, as the uptick seen in some sectors in June-July appeared to have levelled off.
By ANI

BHOPAL: BJP leader Kailash Vijayvargiya on Wednesday assured action against the four men accused in the Uttar Pradesh's Hathras gang rape incident saying that "vehicles can overturn anytime in Yogi Adityanath's state".

"The accused have been arrested. The case has been sent to a fast-track court. We need to wait for sometime. The accused will be sent to jail... Yogi (Adityanath) is the Chief Minister. Main jaanta hun ki unke pradesh mein kabhi bhi gaadi palat jaati hai (I know that in his state, vehicles can overturn anytime)," Vijayvargiya said while speaking to media here.

Vijayvargiya's remarks are being seen as a reference to the encounter of Kanpur's notorious gangster Vikas Dubey by the Uttar Pradesh Police in July after he 'attempted to flee'.

ALSO READ | Sonia Gandhi says Hathras gang rape victim 'killed by ruthless govt'

Meanwhile, the father of Hathras gang rape victim on Wednesday said that Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has assured the family that they will get justice.

The Uttar Pradesh government on Wednesday announced that kin of Hathras gang rape victim will be given Rs 25 lakh as ex-gratia and a house, and a government job will be given to a member of the family.

The government has formed a three-member SIT to probe the case and said the matter will be heard in the fast track court.

The 19-year-old victim died in Safdarjung Hospital on Tuesday. She was brought to the hospital on Monday from Aligarh Muslim University Medical College.

An official had earlier said that the last rites were performed at the victim's native place in the wee hours of Wednesday. All the four accused involved in the incident have been arrested.
The Regional District of Nanaimo received two $25,000 grants from the Union of BC Municipalities to enhance the districts emergency preparedness in electoral areas.

One grant will help fund a mobile emergency communications trailer to be used as an outpost for radio communications to and from the RDN emergency operations centre.

During an emergency, the new trailer would be a reliable means of communication between the RDN emergency operations centre, an incident site, Emergency Management BC and amateur radio operators, explained Catherine Morrison, RDN manager of emergency services. The Gabriola Fire Hall is already equipped with portable radio kits.

The second grant will be used to cover costs for group lodgings required for evacuees during an emergency as well as to set up volunteers to provide digital assistance through emergency support services.

At present, those needing emergency support connect with volunteers over the phone, who then make referrals for supports such as temporary lodging, food, clothing and toiletries.

The grant funding is being used to build digital emergency support service kits, which include tablets, keyboards, mice and a printer, said Morrison. This will enable use of Emergency Management BCs online evacuee registration assistance tool, which allows for self-registration as well as digital delivery of referrals to support suppliers.

Morrison encourages residents to sign up for the RDNs Neighbourhood Emergency Preparedness Program, which equips neighbours to support one another before assistance can arrive.

You will be better prepared to act quickly, better informed, know who to go to in your neighbourhood for specific skills and resources, know where to meet and you will not be alone in a time of disaster, said Morrison. Sharing detailed planning information with the emergency program can also expedite rescue operations such as sending first responders to the neighbourhood meeting location in an event where communication channels are disrupted.

Only one neighbourhood on Gabriola has signed up, according to the map on the program website. To sign up or join an existing group, go to www.getinvolved.rdn.ca/nepp.

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Kim Kardashian has added several notches to her belt since rising to fame as a socialite on her hit E! reality series Keeping Up With The Kardashians in 2009.

And the 39-year-old aspiring lawyer, who is currently aiming to take the bar exam in 2022, put an adult twist on her study session on Wednesday night.

'Tequila & Torts! Was tonight's theme!' captioned Kardashian as she took celebratory tequila shots with her attorney mentors Jessica Jackson and Erin Haney.

Adult twist: Kim Kardashian, who is currently aiming to take the bar exam in 2022, put an adult twist on her study session on Wednesday night

Bottoms up: 'Tequila & Torts! Was tonight's theme!' captioned Kardashian as she took celebratory tequila shots with her attorney mentors Jessica Jackson and Erin Haney

Kim documented the entire tequila-filled fun on her Instagram Story, despite her obvious aversion to taking shots.

'This is how we study,' began the KKW Beauty founder, before telling her lawyer pals that she 'needs a chaser' for her shot.

The ladies, with full shot glasses in hand, gathered around as Kim uttered some encouraging words.

'Cheers to studying for law school and passing this f**king test once and for all,' she concluded.

All on film: Kim documented the entire tequila-filled fun on her Instagram Story, despite her obvious aversion to taking shots

Toasting: The ladies, with full shot glasses in hand, gathered around as Kim uttered some encouraging words

Go time: Kim, Jessica and Erin all clanked their shot glasses and attempted to the best of their abilities to get the liquid down in one shot

Kim, Jessica and Erin all clanked their shot glasses and attempted to the best of their abilities to get the liquid down in one shot.

Kardashian could not help but laugh at herself as she struggled to consume the pungent liquor.

'I'm such a p***y!' she shouted, while sipping away on her chaser. 'Oh my God! I have way too much taste of that.'

In a follow up video, taken in selfie mode, Kim sipped on her lime-infused drink and repeated her celebratory toast for her 189million followers on Instagram.

Struggling: Kardashian could not help but laugh at herself as she struggled to consume the pungent liquor

Take two: In a follow up video, taken in selfie mode, Kim sipped on her lime-infused drink and repeated her celebratory toast for her 189million followers on Instagram

Too much: 'I'm such a p***y!' she shouted, while sipping away on her chaser. 'Oh my God! I have way too much taste of that'

She then raised up a bottle of Don Julio tequila that was gifted to her for her birthday last year.

'This must have been from last year...1942,' said Kim as she read the bottles label before slamming it down on the counter top and ending the Instagram Story video.

In her final post of the night, the KUWTK star encouraged her followers to weigh in on what she, Erin, and Jessica should name their study session.

'Tequila and torts...Cocktails and contracts...Crunk and crim...' she listed, followed by a laughing face emoji.

Birthday gift: Kim raised up a bottle of Don Julio tequila that was gifted to her for her birthday last year

The end: 'This must have been from last year...1942,' said Kim as she read the bottles label before slamming it down on the counter top and ending the Instagram Story video

Kim began a four-year apprenticeship at a law firm in San Francisco in 2018 and is working under Erin Haney and Jessica Jackson to complete her law studies, according to NBC.

Kardashian often documents her rigorous study sessions, which involve plenty of extensive note taking, on her Instagram Story.

But Wednesday evening's session proved to be a real treat for Kim and her renown mentors.

You decide: 'Tequila and torts...Cocktails and contracts...Crunk and crim...' she listed, followed by a laughing face emoji

In March, she spoke of how becoming a mother prompted her to begin her apprenticeship.

Speaking to Grazia, the beauty, who is a little more than a year into a four year law course, said: Becoming a mom has really opened up my heart, and its changed me.

I dont know if this journey would have happened for me before I was a mom. I will do what I can to help keep on shouting the stories of these people Ive met.

The Keeping Up With The Kardashians star said she was 'prideful' that she could set an example for her children through her work and that a 'big part' of life should be giving back.

Glam: Hours prior to her study session, Kim got all glammed up with the help of her go-to makeup artist Ariel and hair master Chris Appleton

Caught ya: In a brief clip, Kardashian could be seen texting on her phone as Ariel filmed her

She is a mom to North, seven, Saint, four, Chicago, two, and Psalm, one, who she shares with husband Kanye West.

Hours prior to her study session, Kim got all glammed up with the help of her go-to makeup artist Ariel and hair master Chris Appleton.

In a brief clip, Kardashian could be seen texting on her phone as Ariel filmed her.

She then looked up at the camera, flipped her hair and playfully pushed the camera away from her.
- Uganda is Africa's largest coffee exporter but earns less foreign income than its neighbour Ethiopia which processes its produce

- Most Ugandans traditionally take more tea than coffee as most of them think it has more health benefits than the latter

- The country led by its long serving president Yoweri Museveni exported up to 5.2 million 60 kilogram bags of coffee in 2019, the highest volumes exported in a year since 1991

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The government of Uganda is set to hire expatriates to teach its citizens how to drink coffee.

A young man drinking coffee at a restaurant. Photo: Freepik.

Source: UGC

The move was announced by the country's Coffee Development Authority which said the action will help promote the sale of the produce.

According to The Observer, Uganda is Africa's largest coffee exporter but earns less foreign income per unit than its neighbour Ethiopia which processes its produce and sells most of it locally.

Coffee is Uganda's most important cash crop. Photo: Uganda Coffee Federation.

Source: UGC

Uganda Coffee Development Authority managing director, Emmanuel Iyamuremye said the government would fly in experts to teach Ugandans the need to consume coffee so the landlocked country can earn more income from the cash crop.

"Were first demystifying the myth that coffee makes people not to have sleep. So we have started a process where we bring experts from abroad who are medical people so that they explain that coffee actually has health benefits. Were now coming to the institutions where we have formed university clubs and secondary schools where they appreciate that coffee is a good drink," Iyamuremye said.

Promote roasting

The official said the authority has been training young men and women on how to serve a good cup of coffee.

"Were looking at how we can promote roasting in the country. We have been training youths, barristers how to serve a good cup of coffee. We have helped to generate many cafes around the corners of Kampala but also upcountry you see the coffee culture coming up," he explained.

Most Ugandans traditionally take more tea than coffee as most of them think it has more health benefits that the later.

Highest exports since 1991

The country led by long serving President Yoweri Museveni exported up to 5.2 million 60 kilogram bags of coffee in 2019, the highest volumes exported in a year since 1991 and this earned the country close to $500 million (KSh 54 billion).

It aims to export 20 million bags between 2025 to 2030.

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By PTI

COLOMBO: Sri Lanka is looking forward to a USD 1 billion currency swap with India to boost its foreign reserves and attract more investment into the island nation after its economy was hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic.

Issuing a government reaction to the downgrading of Sri Lanka's credit rating by Moody's investor services, country's state minister of capital markets Ajith Nivard Cabraal on Wednesday said that the latest negotiations with India for USD 1 billion swap was in addition to the 400 million Sri Lanka received under swap with the RBI in July.

READ| Sri Lanka bans cattle slaughter

"Sri Lanka looks forward to a USD 1 billion currency swap with India's Reserve Bank to boost its foreign reserves with action to attract more investment in to the island as measures to boost the island's reserves," he said.

The Reserve Bank of India in July this year signed necessary documents for extending a USD 400 million currency swap facility to Sri Lanka to boost the island nation's draining foreign exchange reserves due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The currency swap arrangement will remain available till November 2022.

Cabraal said the other options available with them were of Samurai (Japanese), Panda (Chinese) bonds and a USD 700 million syndicated Chinese loan.

On Monday Moody's downgraded the Government of Sri Lanka's long-term foreign currency issuer and senior unsecured ratings to Caa1 from B2 and changed the outlook to stable.

This was following a review for downgrade that had started mid-April 2020.

Moody's said the decision to downgrade reflected its assessment that the coronavirus-induced shock, which Moody's regards as a social risk, will significantly weaken Sri Lanka's already fragile funding and external positions.

Cabraal described the downgrading as premature and unfair.

"The negotiations with India which is underway for 1 billion dollar swap was in addition to the 400 million Sri Lanka received under swap with the RBI in July," he said.

Sri Lanka would receive 700 million dollars as the second tranche of the 1.2 billion dollar syndicated Chinese loan of which 500 million had been received in March.

"Sri Lanka is also looking forward to 1 billion dollar repurchase agreement with the US Federal Reserve," he said.

Sri Lanka's economy, especially the tourism sector, has been hit hard since last year initially by the Easter Sunday attacks, which killed over 250 people and later by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Till now, the island nation has reported 3,380 infections and 13 deaths, according to local media report.
Michael Frederick Jr, 24, has been arrested and charged with ethnic intimidation, weapons offenses and malicious destruction of property in Michigan

A 24-year-old white man accused of repeatedly targeting a black suburban Detroit family by firing shots into their home which displayed a Black Lives Matter sign, and defacing their vehicle with a swastika has been arrested in connection to the crime spree.

Michael Frederick Jr appeared in court via video this morning and was arraigned on three counts of ethnic intimidation, four weapons offenses and two counts of malicious destruction of property.

When given a chance to speak about his bond, Frederick told Judge Michael Chupa that he wanted the victims, US Army veterans Eddie and Candace Hall, to forgive him and says that he acted out-of-character.

'This wasn't about the color of anyone's skin,' he said, adding that his actions were triggered by the Black Lives Matter sign in the Hall family's front window.

Eddie Hall Jr. and his wife Candace stand in front of threatening graffiti on their truck outside their Warren, Michigan, home on September 10

Warren Mayor James Fouts, left, stands with the Hall couple during a news conference on Wednesday, a day after the arrest of suspect Michael Frederick Jr

Chupa told him a couple of times not to discuss the case. The judge entered not guilty pleas on behalf of Frederick for each count and set his bond at $200,000. Frederick requested a court-appointed lawyer.

TIMELINE OF 'RACIST' CRIME SPREE: September 7: Shots are fired into the Warren, Michigan, home of Eddie and Candace Hall September 9: A large rock is thrown through front window of Hall family's home September 9: Family's pickup truck has tires slashed and is defaced with a swastika and the words 'terrorist Black Lives Matter' and 'not welcome' September 10: A bullet is fired through the Halls' front window and police recover six shell casings outside the house September 29: Michael Frederick Jr, 24, Halls' neighbor, is arrested and allegedly confesses to the crimes Advertisement

Warren Police Commissioner Bill Dwyer said Frederick confessed to the attacks and expressed remorse.

Warren Mayor Jim Fouts described Frederick as a 'racist terrorist' and stated that there is no place for racism in his city, reported Mlive.com.

'The City of Warren does not tolerate racism. They dont tolerate terrorism and they dont tolerate someone who would actually plague the entire community," Fouts said.

A court conference was set for October 13 and Frederick's preliminary examination is scheduled for October 20.

The case began unfolding on September 7, when shots were fired at the Halls' home in Warren.

Two days later, someone painted a swastika on one of their vehicles, slashed the tires and threw a large stone through their front window. Outside, they discovered the swastika and found that someone had written 'terrorist Black Lives Matter,' 'not welcome' and 'get the f*** out' on their silver pickup truck.

Candace documented the damage to her property in a Facebook live video just minutes after the evening attack.

The following day, someone fired a bullet through the Halls front window and police found six shell casings outside the house.

A neighbor's home surveillance video showed a masked and hooded man carrying what appears to be a handgun outside the Halls' home.

Candace Hall documented the damage to her home after a huge rock was thrown through her front window on the night of September 9

Frederick, who lives in the Halls' neighborhood with his parents, was arrested on Tuesday.

Commissioner Dwyer said the suspect used a gun from his family's garage, which belonged to a friend of his parents, to fire the shots.

The commissioner told reporters on Wednesday that Frederick also confessed to a similar attack directed at a white neighbor that took place in the same week as the crime spree targeting the Halls.

In that incident, Frederick allegedly scrawled the word 'pedophile' on a garage door and threw a rock through a window at the man's home, which displays signs supporting Democratic political candidates, reported Detroit Free Press.

The perpetrator had drawn a swastika and had written 'terrorist Black Lives Matter,' 'not welcome' and 'get the f*** out' on the Halls' silver pickup truck

In court on Thursday, Frederick insisted his actions were not motivated by race and were out of character for him

Eddie Hall Jr. inspects the tire damage to his son's car outside his Warren home

Frederick admitted that the series of attacks was sparked by the Black Lives Matter sign displayed in the family's front window

'Hate brings no good to anyone,' Candace Hall told reporters at a press conference on Wednesday.

She said her family could not sleep and had to temporarily move out of their home out of fear that the person targeting them could return.

Candace added that she prays for the suspect and his mother, and that she feels sorry for his parents.

If given a chance to meet Frederick, the woman said she would tell him she is praying for him and forgives him.

Records indicate that Frederick has a prior criminal record in Michigan that includes a 2016 arrest on a charge of malicious destruction of property stemming from an incident in which he damaged a vehicle after getting fired from his job.
TAIPEI, TAIWAN / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / Thursday, October 1, 2020, coincides with the "Mid-Autumn Festival", one of the Chinese character cultural sphere's four traditional festivals. The Chinese will reunite with family and friends to watch the moon and thank their ancestors for their blessing. On the eve of the Mid-Autumn Festival, Merxwire offices worldwide held barbecue activities, allowing employees to experience Chinese traditional culture and feel a warm holiday.

The moon symbolizes perfection

The original purpose of the Mid-Autumn Festival is to worship the moon. People think that the moon on this day is the roundest, symbolizing perfection and perfection. Therefore, people pray to the moon, hoping to bless their families to maintain their health and society to maintain peace. They also worship their ancestors to express gratitude.

Making and sharing mooncakes is one of the hallmark traditions of this festival. In Chinese culture, The round moon cakes are symbols of the great family reunion just like the round. Thus, the sharing and eating of round mooncakes among family members during the week of the festival signifies the completeness and unity of families.

The yolk pastry is an extension of the moon cake, which is a traditional oriental dessert. The filling of yolk pastry is usually salted duck egg yolk, red bean paste, taste mellow sweetness, crispy, and tasty. In Taiwan, yolk pastry is also one of the moon cakes often eaten during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Today, mooncakes have also appeared in western countries as a form of delicacy.

Cultural evolution of Mid-Autumn Festival

In Taiwan, people are very keen to have barbecue activities with their families on the Mid-Autumn Festival night. From the elderly to the children, the whole family gathers in front of the barbecue grill to taste barbecue, grilled fish, and various vegetables. Everyone prepares vibrant dishes, which makes this event very grand. This week, significant supermarkets and traditional markets will gather many consumers, and they will purchase all kinds of barbecue equipment and ingredients.

Why is a barbecue event held during the Mid-Autumn Festival? Besides eating moon cakes, pomelo, and other special festive delicacies, barbecue events are also held in Taiwan. Barbecue culture comes from Taiwan's soy sauce advertisement in 1986, highlighting the barbecue's aroma that can be spread to everyone's home, fully expressing the Mid-Autumn Festival reunion and celebration atmosphere.

Experience different cultures

Every place has special cultures and festivals, which represent the daily habits, different growth processes and thinking modes. Experiencing different cultures can make employees better understand various countries/regions' customs and increase mutual exchanges and understanding from festival activities. Want to learn more about Merxwire's employee benefits? Tell us what you think: help@merxwire.org

To learn more about the Mid-Autumn Festival, watch video online: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQXDxIE-eoo

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Two notorious conservative operatives were charged Thursday with felonies in connection with false robocalls that aimed to dissuade residents in Detroit and other U.S. cities from voting by mail, Michigans attorney general announced.

Jacob Wohl, 22, and Jack Burkman, 54, each face four felony counts in Detroit, including conspiring to intimidate voters in violation of election law and using a computer to commit crimes, Attorney General Dana Nessel said.

The calls falsely warned residents in majority-Black Detroit and urban areas in at least four other states that voting by mail in the Nov. 3 election could subject people to arrest, debt collection and forced vaccination, Nessel said.

The men, who have a history of staging hoaxes and spreading false smears against prominent Democrats and government officials, are not in custody and no date for their arraignments has been set.

Nessel said her office would work with local law enforcement to secure their appearances if necessary, saying the men could face arrest and extradition or could voluntarily come to Michigan to face the charges.

A judge found probable cause Thursday to support the charges, which carry the potential for years in prison and thousands of dollars in fines upon conviction. The computer charges carry up to seven years apiece while election law violations could bring up to five in all.

Nessels office warned the public about the calls and launched an investigation in late August after thousands of Detroit residents received them.

Wohl and Burkman both denied involvement at the time. Burkman didnt immediately reply to a Thursday voicemail seeking comment about the charges and Wohl didnt immediately reply to an email.

Nessel said the investigation found that Burkman and Wohl created and funded the robocalls in an attempt to deter voters of color from participating in the November election.

Were all well aware of the frustrations caused by the millions of nuisance robocalls flooding our cellphones and landlines each day, but this particular message poses grave consequences for our democracy and the principles upon which it was built, Nessel said. Michigan voters are entitled to a full, free and fair election in November, and my office will not hesitate to pursue those who jeopardize that.

Nessel said 85,000 calls were believed to have been made across the nation. She said nearly 12,000 residents in the 313 ZIP code received the calls in Detroit, and that similar calls also blanketed urban pockets of Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois and New York. And she encouraged anyone who received such a call to file a complaint with her office.

Wohl and Burkman have a history of supporting President Donald Trump and attacking his political opponents.

Michigan is a key battleground state that Trump narrowly won in 2016 in part due to a drop in turnout for Hillary Clinton in heavily Democratic Detroit. in Michigan, voters can cast an absentee ballot for any reason, either by mailing it in, dropping it off or filling one out at a clerks office.

The caller identified herself as part of Project 1559 and said it was a group founded by Wohl and Burkman. The calls falsely claimed that voting by mail would result in personal information going into databases that will be used by police to resolve old warrants, credit card companies to collect debts and federal officials to track mandatory vaccines.

Dont be finessed into giving your private information to the man, the caller said. Beware of vote by mail.

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, like Nessel a Democrat, in August called the robocalling effort an unconscionable, indefensible, blatant attempt to lie to citizens about their right to vote.

She praised Nessel for a swift investigation Thursday, saying the charges show the state will use every tool at our disposal to dispel false rhetoric" and protect voting rights.

Investigators served search warrants in California, where Wohl lives in Los Angeles, as part of the inquiry last week, Nessel said.

Wohl and Burkman have made a name for themselves by orchestrating political dirty tricks and hoaxes, including spreading false claims of sexual misconduct by Robert Mueller and Pete Buttigieg.

Just last month, the Washington Post said that it was duped into falsely reporting that FBI agents had conducted a raid at Burkmans home in Arlington, Virginia, when it was actually a staged event featuring actors.

In August, Wohl told The Associated Press that they suspected leftist pranksters were behind the robocalls because recipients were shown a caller ID that was Burkmans mobile number. Burkman called the situation a joke, saying nobody would use their mobile number for a robocall and threatening to sue Benson for defamation.

This isnt the first time the two have come under scrutiny in Michigan.

Last year, a Michigan college student said the duo recruited him to falsely claim he was raped by Democratic presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg and then published the smear without the students permission.

__

Associated Press writer David Eggert contributed to this story from Lansing, Michigan.

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President Donald Trumps administration has announced plans to let only 15,000 refugees resettle in the United States in the 2021 fiscal year that began on Thursday, setting another record low in the history of the modern refugee program.

The State Department said late on Wednesday the ceiling reflects the Trump administrations prioritizing of the safety and well-being of Americans, especially in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic." Trump, seeking re-election on Nov. 3, has taken a hard line toward legal and illegal immigration during his presidency, including slashing refugee admissions every year since taking office in 2017.

The Trump administration has said that refugees from war-torn regions should be resettled closer to their home countries and that the United States extends asylum to thousands of people through a separate process.

Critics have said that the United States under Trump has abandoned its longstanding role as a safe haven for persecuted people and that cutting refugee admissions undermines other foreign policy goals.

The refugee cap was cut to 18,000 last year, but around 7,000 of those slots went unused, according to government figures, as increased vetting by the Trump administration and the coronavirus pandemic slowed arrivals.

U.S. presidents typically set yearly refugee levels around the Oct. 1 beginning of each fiscal year. Under U.S. law, the president must consult Congress before finalizing the annual number of refugees it plans to accept, but the determination is ultimately set by the White House.

The 2021 plan lays out specific allocations, including 5,000 slots for refugees who suffered or fear persecution on the basis of religion, 4,000 slots for refugees from Iraq who helped the United States, and 1,000 slots for refugees from El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras. That leaves 5,000 for all others.

Even though 4,000 slots were allocated for Iraqis affiliated with the United States during the 2020 fiscal year that ended on Wednesday, only 123 had been resettled as of Sept. 25, according to government figures.

A law called the Refugee Act of 1980 created the modern U.S. refugee resettlement program. The cap set for refugees in the subsequent four decades has never been as low as the one planned for 2021. Before President Barack Obama left office, he set the cap for fiscal year 2017 at 110,000 refugees, but Trump slashed that in half soon after becoming president.

Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden has pledged to raise refugee admissions to 125,000 a year if he defeats Trump. Advocates have said the refugee program could take years to recover after Trump-era reductions.

Tens of thousands of refugees are in the pipeline for arrival to the United States, many with applications far along in the approval and vetting process.

Krish Vignarajah, president and CEO of Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, which helps resettle recently arrived refugees, wrote on Twitter that the Trump administrations cuts represent a complete abdication of our moral duty and all that we stand for as a nation."

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Migrants: Bosnia, two deaths in clashes at Bihac Incidents between rival groups of refugees

(ANSAmed) - BELGRADE, OCTOBER 1 - Two migrants were killed and numerous others were wounded in clashes between rival groups that took place Wednesday evening in Bihac, in northwest Bosnia-Herzegovina, not far from the border with Croatia. Regional media reported that incidents broke out in a makeshift improvised camp near the village of Zegar, just outside Bihac, and involved groups of Afghan and Pakistani migrants, who faced off with knives and clubs. In addition to the two victims, about 20 migrants were wounded, some seriously, in the clashes. Those who committed the double murder fled and are being sought by police. In the area of Bihac, thousands of migrants walking along the Balkan Route are trying however they can to cross the border with Croatia to continue their journey towards countries in Western Europe. Media reports said the incident was a massive clash in which, according to depositions, Afghans attacked Pakistanis then fled to Mt. Pljesivica. The clash took place while the migrants were preparing for what they call the "game", which is the attempt to cross the mountain and the border with Croatia trying to evade Croatian police. In Bosnia, mainly in the northwest, there are more than 7,000 illegal migrants whose primary objective is to cross the Croatian border.(ANSAmed). (ANSA).




Missed Breast Cancer Story

A recent Quintessential Barrington Magazine article describes the story of Leslie Ferris Yerger, who was diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer just two months after having a clear mammogram. Her dense breast tissue made her tumor invisible on a mammogram. Bewildered as to how such extensive cancer had escaped detection, Yerger set out to learn as much as she could. She found that although regular screening mammograms are proven to save lives, they are unable to catch over half of all tumors in breasts that are classified as dense.

The article states that when Yerger learned about Molecular Breast Imaging (MBI), a technology developed by Mayo Clinic doctors and scientists, she wondered why she had never heard of this technology developed specifically to find hidden tumors in dense breasts. Since then she has raised over $100,000 for research at the Mayo Clinic, and has become an author and a speaker advocating that women with dense breast tissue get advanced supplemental screening, so that her story does not become any other womans story.

Read full story at: https://www.quintessentialbarrington.com/so20-the-path-forward/

CMR Molecular Imaging manufactures and commercializes the LumaGEM  MBI system, with dual-head digital direct conversion gamma imaging, that provides high resolution images with less than 2 mm resolution, using a low dose of Tc99 Sestamibi radiotracer. With over 90 percent sensitivity and specificity, the LumaGEM MBI has been shown to significantly improve cancer detection in women with dense breast tissue with fewer false positives relative to anatomical imaging technologies, such as MRI and whole breast ultrasound.

Researchers have found and published data demonstrating that in women with dense breast tissue, MBI detects an additional 8.8 cancers per 1000 women screened providing an incremental cancer detection rate (ICDR) of 250% over mammography. Rhodes et al. AJR 2015

About CMR Molecular Imaging: CMR Molecular Imaging is a unit of CMR Naviscan Corporation, a leader in organ-specific molecular imaging and part of the Compania Mexicana de Radiologia CGR, S.A. de C.V. (CMR), a global developer and manufacturer of high quality diagnostic imaging equipment and healthcare information systems, including DICOM-compliant imaging software. CMR Naviscan, headquartered in Carlsbad, California, develops and manufactures molecular imaging systems, including the Solo II High Resolution Breast PET Imaging (BPI) scanner, the Stereo Navigator Biopsy Guidance Accessory, and the LumaGEM Molecular Breast Imaging (MBI) system. CMR Naviscan is US FDA registered and ISO 13485:2012 certified.

For more information visit http://www.cmr-naviscan.com
By Express News Service

KOLKATA: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday launched 'Pathashree Abhijaan', during which 7,000 stretches of roads, comprising 12,000 km across the state, will be repaired in a time-bound manner.

The announcement was made during CMs visit to north Bengal, where the ruling Trinamool Congress received a massive blow in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

The Chief Minister said, "On the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary, our government is taking up a project to repair and maintain 12,000 kilometers of roads across the state." This project will be conducted over the next 15 days.

"Due to Covid, a lot of work had come to a halt, but we will restart it. Roads are keys to good infrastructure. We will try to connect all villages to major roads," she added.

The chief minister said before the change of guard in the state in 2011 and her party came to power, only 92,023 km of roads were built by the previous government. "Today, West Bengal has a total road length of around 316,730 km  a 244 per cent increase in road infrastructure, she claimed, adding, In order to continue this progress, the government of West Bengal has sanctioned Rs 5,746.99 crore for public work in the budget 2020-2021. West Bengal is also number one when it comes to the length of rural roads."

The state government has collated a list of roads through Didi Ke Bolo, a platform to reach out to the people, inputs received at the CMO Grievance Redressal Cell and valuable inputs from the elected representatives. These roads will be repaired in a time-bound manner.

"Mass participation would be a key feature of the Pathashree Abhijaan. The people of West Bengal will be able to share photos and videos of the repaired roads with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. In the case that a road has not been repaired, they can similarly reach out to the CM, who will then ensure necessary steps to address their grievance," said a senior state government official.

The Chief Minister also instructed all BDOs and inspectors-in-charge of police stations to keep a close eye on fake news and false information on social media platforms. Without naming the BJP, Mamata alleged an "organisation is spreading cerebral terror on social media by circulating fake news.
Mexicos Senate has voted to levy fines of up to $47,000 against hotels, restaurants or other property owners who restrict access to the countrys beaches.

The bill approved unanimously Tuesday also requires property owners to allow the public access through their lots to beaches that do not have access roads.

The bill now goes to the president for his approval. Mexicans have long been angered by private restaurants, clubs and hotels that erect barriers or employ guards to keep locals off their stretch of beach.

Federal law already states the public cannot be denied access to a space 20 meters inland from the high tide line, but some businesses mark off exclusive areas almost up to the waters edge. Business that repeatedly break the law could lose their permits to operate on any part of the beach.

Mexicans have long been angered by private restaurants, clubs and hotels that erect barriers or employee guards to keep locals off their stretch of beach.

In February, two Mexican tourists were briefly arrested in the Caribbean resort of Playa del Carmen after refusing to leave a stretch of sand that had been taken over by a local restaurant to set up tables for paying customers. The arrests sparked protests, and the local government later apologized.

The private beach club had been charging to use lounge chairs placed almost up to the waters edge, and it called municipal police when the couple refused to leave what the club called a service aisle on the sand. Video posted on social media showed the couple being handcuffed and wrestled off the beach by police as other people objected, noting beach access is protected by law.

According to photos posted on social media, the beach club had been placing its umbrellas and lounge chairs within a few meters of the water and charging tourists $40 to use them.

The issue has also gained prominence during the pandemic, as public beaches were officially closed along much of Mexicos Caribbean coast as a health measure, but tourists  often foreigners  could still enjoy the sands through resorts or hotels that have direct beach access.

Labor Party Sen. Alejandra del Carmen Leon praised the new law and said the practice of granting beach concessions to private businesses in the past constituted an act of classism and discrimination against local Mexican families.
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo speaks during a daily media briefing at the Office of the Governor of the State of New York in New York City on July 23, 2020. (Jeenah Moon/Getty Images)

NYs Cuomo Denies Responsibility for COVID-19 Nursing Home Deaths

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo is denying that the number of nursing home residents who died of COVID-19 had anything to do with his state policy that ordered adult-care facilities to accept COVID-19-positive patients from hospitals.

On March 25, Cuomo, citing worries of hospitals being overwhelmed, mandated that nursing homes and long-term care facilities take in COVID-19 patients, so long as they were medically stable.

During a Sept. 30 interview with Finger Lakes News Radio, Cuomo was asked about the order, which many of his critics say contributed to the 6,500 deaths that occurred in nursing homes across the state.

Cuomo rejected the idea that his order during the early days of the CCP virus outbreak led to lives lost in nursing homes, calling such claims factually wrong.

Thats not why they lost a loved one, the Democratic governor said, referring to families of elderly COVID-19 victims. People who were lost in nursing homes were lost because thats where the virus preys.

He then blamed health care workers and visiting family members for bringing the CCP virus into New Yorks nursing homes.

The working staff at the nursing home brought in the virus or potentially family membersbefore we stopped family visitsbrought in the virus, Cuomo said. This happened that a time back in February when we didnt even know the virus was circulating in New York State. Thats how the virus got into the nursing home.

Cuomo moved on to claim that there has never been a concern of overwhelmed hospitals in his statea statement that apparently contradicts his previous remarks about New York facing an imminent hospital bed shortage, which prompted the Army Corp of Engineers to build field hospitals and President Donald Trump to send in the USNS Comfort, the Navys floating hospital.

That situation never came to be in New York state, because we flattened the curve so effectively, we always had available hospital beds, he said. So we never scrambled for beds.

We never needed nursing home beds because we always had hospital beds, so it just never happened in New York, where we needed to say to a nursing home, We need you to take this person even though theyre COVID positive, it never happened.

The interview comes after a pair of bills introduced in New Yorks state legislature, demanding the state health department reveal exactly how many nursing home residents died of COVID-19 after being sent to hospitals.

New Yorks accounting of nursing home and adult care facility resident deaths do not include those residents who had been transferred to a hospital and then passed away, said state Sen. Gustavo Rivera, who chairs the state senates health committee.

While the official tally at the time of the hearings was approximately 6,500 deaths of residents in facilities, many speculated the number was significantly higher and that the under counting gives an inaccurate and rosier picture of what actually happened in New York.
HANOI/BANDAR LAMPUNG, Indonesia  Vietnams domestic coffee prices dropped for the second week on weak global cues, while Indonesias premiums stayed firm as some farmers held their beans stocks instead of selling them, traders said on Thursday.

Farmers in the Central Highlands, Vietnam's largest coffee-growing area, sold coffee COFVN-DAK at 31,500-32,000 dong ($1.36-$1.38), lower than last week's 33,500 dong.

The London November futures contract closed at $1,331 on Wednesday, down from $1,349 a week earlier, Refinitiv Eikon data showed.

The 2021/21 harvest has officially begun in Vietnam but traders said bean supplies would not come until mid-November.

Farmers will start picking beans later this month and new beans will come in bulk by the end of November, said a trader based in the coffee belt, adding that there was no change in supply, while demand and trading remained thin.

Traders in Vietnam offered 5% black and broken grade 2 robusta COFVN-G25-SAI at premiums of $100-$110 per metric ton to the November contract, compared with the $100 premium a week ago.

Coffee exports from Vietnam likely decreased an estimated 1.4% in the first nine months of this year from a year earlier to 1.25 million metric tons, equal to 20.83 million 60-kg bags, official figures showed.

While Indonesias exports of robusta coffee beans from Sumatra islands Lampung province were 19,999.9 metric tons in September, according to the local government.

Premiums for Indonesias Sumatra robusta were offered at around $180-$190 this week for November contract, compared with the $190-$200 premiums range last week, a trader in Lampung province said.

The premiums remain firm as farmers started to keep their beans stocks instead of selling them.

The harvest is starting to taper off, so some farmers are not selling their beans, one trader said.

Another trader said premium for November went up to $150 this week, from $100. ($1 = 23,188 dong)
Anne Hathaway and Chiwetel Ejiofor set for Harrods heist film 'Lockdown'. (Credit: Owen Hoffman/Netflix/Jonathan Brady/Gareth Cattermole/PA/Getty)

Doug Liman has assembled an A-list cast for his new movie  a heist thriller set and shot within the London department store Harrods.

Before the filmmaker blasts off into space with Tom Cruise, he has begun production on Lockdown, which is set during the COVID-19 quarantine period and penned by Peaky Blinders creator Steve Knight.

The story follows a warring couple, played by Anne Hathaway and Chiwetel Ejiofor, as they bury the hatchet in order to attempt a high-stakes jewellery heist at the luxury London retail emporium.

Read more: Liman says Gambit movie is now dead

Several other high-profile cast members are set to join, according to The Wrap, including Ben Stiller, Lily James and Stephen Merchant.

Doug Liman attends a screening of 'Impulse' on June 7, 2018. (Photo by Paul Bruinooge/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images)

Husband and wife duo Dule Hill (The West Wing) and Jazmyn Simon (Ballers) are also in talks to star, along with Sherlock co-creator Mark Gatiss.

Knight and Liman reportedly took the movie from concept to principal photography in just 90 days and production is due to take place over the coming weeks in and around the iconic Harrods store.

Read more: #LoveCinema campaign launched as multiplexes open

As with any project shooting at the moment, Lockdown is abiding by strict coronavirus safety rules.

It is one of several quarantine-themed movies to have been made, including Zoom-shot horror film Host and romantic drama Malcolm & Marie, starring Zendaya and John David Washington.

Shoppers queue outside the Harrods department store in Knightsbridge as it reopens in London, Britain on June 15, 2020. (Photo by Ray Tang/Xinhua via Getty Images)

Lockdown is a notably lower key project for Liman, compared to his impending journey to the International Space Station for his reunion with Cruise.

He has directed the action man in both Edge of Tomorrow and American Made, but their new movie is a far more ambitious and history-making proposition.

Read more: Simon Pegg wants to go to space with Cruise

The duo are set to blast off in October 2021, with Cruise set to take on one of the most unique works of action cinema ever made, within months of his 60th birthday. It will certainly be interesting.

Watch: Doug Liman could make Edge of Tomorrow sequel
The Commission for Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) has called on government to speed up processes of completing the ongoing stakeholder consultations on the National Ageing Bill and ensure same laid before Parliament.

The Commission in a release to commemorate the International Day of Older Persons marked on October 1, noted that over the years, some progress has been made in advancing the rights of older persons in Ghana.

The statement signed by the CHRAJ Commissioner, Joseph Whittal, however, noted that because of the important role older people play in society, more needs to be done and this day is set aside to draw the State and global attention to the plight of such persons.

It said while the passage of the National Ageing Bill into law is being processed, the State should do more to uphold the rights of older persons within the meaning of the National Aging Policy (NAP), the Constitution and international instruments.

According to the statement, government, under the NAP, has committed to upholding the rights of older persons through the strengthening of legislation to provide full protection for older persons.

To this extent, the Government of Ghana in 2012 publicly expressed its intention to formulate a National Ageing Bill to be passed into law. However, eight (8) years on, the government is yet to finalize the National Ageing Bill before it could be presented to Parliament for consideration,  it said.

The statement alluded to the fact that some stakeholders have described the delay in the passage of the Bill into law as a development that has worsened the vulnerability of the aged in the Country.

Ten (10) years after NAP, the State is yet to ensure that the healthcare needs of older persons are comprehensively addressed by the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). For instance, physiotherapy management of Parkinsons disease and dementia, which are more prevalent among older persons (60+ years), and most medications for such conditions are not included in the NHIS drug policy, it says.

It indicated that the recent inhumane killing of Akua Denteh, the 90-year old woman at Kafaba on suspicion of witchcraft gives credence to the above narrative and requires the State to do more by addressing the issue of ageing in Ghana more comprehensively through legislation, policy and institutional reforms to ensure that older persons are protected from abuse or harm.

As we commemorate this day, CHRAJ wishes to raise awareness on the special health needs of older persons and of the contributions to their own health and to the functioning of the societies in which they live; increase awareness and appreciation of the role of health care workforce in maintaining and improving the health of older persons with special attention to the nursing profession; and also increase understanding of the impact of Covid-19 on older persons, which calls for deliberate healthcare policy and service delivery interventions so as to minimize the effects of this and future pandemics on older persons,  the statement read.

---citinewsroom
The Gombe State Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists has been barred by security men from entering the Gombe State Government House to cover an independence anniversary parley with the Governor of the state, Inuwa Yahaya.

This was contained in a press statement signed by the chairperson of the Chapel Hajara Leman and Sectarery Williams Attah and made available to newsmen in Gombe on Thursday

The journalists, who arrived the gate in their bus, were invited by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Media, Ismaili Uba Misilli, were told by the Chief Security Officer of the Government House, Sani Adamu (SP), that there was no schedule of any official programme; as such, the journalist could not be allowed in.

According to him, I am not aware of any event in the Government House, there is no schedule of any official function, I am doing my job. So, the order is, No going in and that is it. Please you can vacate the entrance; the Governor may come in any moment.

However, all interventions by one of the media aides to the governor, Mr. Jack Tasha, to allow the journalists in proved abortive, including a call to Mr Misilli, who promised to call the Governors chief security officer to allow the journalists in.

Meanwhile, some Government House Press Crew members were allowed into the Government House unhindered, making the Correspondents Chapel members wonder if they were not pressmen.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 1)  President Rodrigo Duterte is "most hopeful" about the COVID-19 vaccine that China is developing as a number of drug companies report progress on clinical trials, his spokesperson said on Thursday.

"The President is most hopeful with China, but he has also said that Johnson & Johnson is on track," Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a media briefing.

China's Sinovac, which is on phase 3 of clinical trials, said it is interested to hold medical research and manufacture vaccines in the country. Meanwhile, local vaccine experts are reviewing the vaccine manufactured by Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson. The Philippines is also waiting for Russia to submit more information on Sputnik V before holding clinical trials.

The Department of Health previously said there is no pressure for the vaccine experts panel to choose COVID-19 vaccines developed by China or Russia, the countries often mentioned by Duterte.
They make breathing in a mask more comfortable, but face coverings bearing filter valves have been banned from military health facilities and increasingly at bases as well, under guidance issued by the Defense Health Agency and the Army Public Health Center.

Masks that contain plastic filters or vents protect the wearer against any germ-laden moisture droplets or exhaled air, but they allow breath to be emitted without passing through the protective cloth barrier, potentially exposing others to the wearer's germs, according to Dr. Steven Cersovsky, a scientific advisor to Army Public Health Center.

Read Next: Air Force OKs Longer Hair for Airmen

As such, Cersovsky said, "these face coverings should not be authorized for use."

"The Army Public Health Center does not recommend the wear of face coverings with exhalation valves," he added.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated its face mask guidelines in August recommending against the use of masks with exhalation valves. Army Public Health Center experts also evaluated the popular face masks, and finding them lacking, issued an operations order in August to all Army medical personnel restricting their use.

"APHC has its own experts in personal protective equipment who have evaluated these products and confirmed their inability to adequately prevent potential transmission of viruses and other infectious organisms," he said.

The Defense Health Agency also issued guidance recommending against use of these types of masks at its facilities, including domestic U.S. military hospitals and clinics. Some installation and operational commanders have also prohibited them within their units or on base.

U.S. Forces Korea banned masks with valves beginning in early September, around the same time the Republic of Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety recommended against their use.

Personnel, employees and dependents on U.S. military installations in South Korea are required to wear masks indoors and outside when they can't socially distance, and they are allowed to use cloth masks, neck gaiters, bandannas or scarves. But masks with valves are no longer allowed.

The announcement was met with frustration by some of those affected by the ban. They voiced their feelings on Facebook, with many complaining that they purchased their masks at post exchanges and some types of these masks that have valves that are lined inside with cloth, providing similar protection to an all-cloth mask, they argued.

U.S. Forces Korea has upheld the ban, however.

The CDC now says the purpose of masks is to keep respiratory droplets from reaching others to aid with source control. However, masks with one-way valves or vents allow air to be exhaled through a hole in the material, which can result in expelled respiratory droplets that can reach others," wrote U.S. Army Garrison Daegu on Facebook.

In announcing the ban on vented masks at Joint Base San Antonio medical facilities, officials asked staff members, patients and vendors to "continue to do your part to slow the spread of the virus."

"Wear a proper face covering, wash your hands regularly and socially distance from others, both at work and in your communities. That is the best way to preserve the health of our patients and staff," they wrote in a release.

As of Wednesday, the Defense Department had logged 66,375 cases of COVID-19, including more than 11,000 new cases in September alone. More than 45,000 military personnel, 6,092 dependents, 10,210 civilians and 4,314 contractors have tested positive for the illness.

-- Patricia Kime can be reached at Patricia.Kime@Monster.com. Follow her on Twitter @patriciakime.

Related: 48-year-old Army Reservist is 8th Service Member to Die From COVID-19
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-02 04:57:13|Editor: huaxia

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by Peter Mertz

DENVER, the United States, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- "Every year I get the call - California's burning, California's burning," U.S. President Donald Trump told the nation in the first of three televised presidential debates Tuesday night, blaming California for mismanaging the state's vast forests and not removing dead wood, which has accelerated the fires.

However, environmental scientists were surprised and plagued when the topic made center stage in a debate watched by an estimated 73 million Americans as the Trump administration has repeatedly refuted global warming.

"Trump is wrong in saying that it is Democratic California Governor Gavin Newsom's fault for not managing forests, because about 90 percent of the forest land in California is owned by the U.S. federal government," Sacramento resident Glenn Nemhauser told Xinhua.

"So, it is President Trump's fault that the forests have not been cleaned out of combustible dead wood and maintained," Nemhauser, a businessmen in the environment industry, said Thursday.

WILDFIRE AND SMOKE

A total of 3,863,216 acres (15,634 square kilometers) have burned in California this year, over 27 times more than in 2019, according to the latest report of California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) on Tuesday.

Three of the top five fires in state history occurred this year, and firefighters in the state have not seen anything like this season in more than 100 years, when the Great Fire of 1910 blazed through more than 3 million acres, ABC News reported Wednesday, adding more than a million acres have also burned in the state of Oregon.

Dozens of major wildfires were burning on the West Coast this week, according to the Fire, Weather & Avalanche Center, and the smoke from California's inferno has literally circled the globe. On Sept. 16 it was seen in Europe 11,000 kilometers away.

This past weekend, a cold weather front pushed smoke from California's blazes and Colorado's biggest wildfires ever, to blanket Colorado's flat eastern "Front Range," including its capital city, Denver.

On Wednesday, NBC News confirmed that the blanket of smoke "Saturday evening made Denver the most polluted city in the world at that moment in time."

GLOBAL WARMING

"There's no more debating if climate change is a reality," environmental group Greenpeace posted on its website last month.

"Scientists agree: the world is getting warmer and human activity is largely responsible. Today, our planet is hotter than it has been in 2,000 years, and on track to grower hotter than it's been in two million years," Greenpeace added.

The amount of forest area burned by wildfires between 1984 and 2015 was twice what would have burned had climate change not occurred, according to a 2018 U.S. National Climate Assessment.

Last month, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) reported that after 20 years of satellites watching increased U.S. fire activity, they are "consistent with a warming climate in places like the western U.S., Canada and other parts of Northern Hemisphere forests, where fuels are abundant."

Doug Morton, chief of the Biospheric Sciences Laboratory at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, said on Sept. 11 that "where warming and drying climate has increased the risk of fires, we've seen an increase in burning," he noted.

"Climate change has inexorably stacked the deck in favor of bigger and more intense fires across the American West over the past few decades, science has incontrovertibly shown," National Geographic said on Sept. 16.

"What we're seeing with the fire activity really is climate change, and it really is climate change smacking us in the face," Philip Duffy, climate scientist and president and executive director of the Woodwell Climate Research Center, told ABC this week.

"This year, certainly in the western U.S., is the worst fire year in recent history," Duffy said.

"We are increasingly pushing our climate to the limit," said Kristina Dahl, senior climate scientist at the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS).

Dahl told the media this week that "the size and scope of the fires are really consistent of what scientists have long predicted."

"These are not unprecedented events," Crystal Raymond, climate adaptation specialist with the Climate Impacts Group at the University of Washington, told ABC-News on Wednesday.

INCREASING FEARS

Increasing heat, changing rain and snow patterns, shifts in plant communities, and other climate-related changes have vastly increased the likelihood that fires will start more often and burn more intensely, the ABC's report noted.

"Just a little more drought can lead to much bigger fires," Monica Turner, a fire ecologist at the University of Wisconsin, said on Wednesday.

Turner told the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) this week that fire-ravaged forests may not recover as many predict, because of global warming - the increased drought conditions and heat may retard the growth of trees, one of many fears scientists have expressed.

"Already, some ecosystems in North America that have had frequent or intense burns are not regenerating," AAAS reported on Wednesday, listing areas in Oregon and California where "invasive shrubs or grasses appear to have taken over."

"When trees fail to regenerate, then we get into a feedback cycle that makes it very difficult in the long term to get back to a forest," Victor Resco de Dios, a forest scientist at Southwest University of Science and Technology in China, told AAAS.

The response this week from environmental scientists has been overwhelming - global warming is here, and America is burning.

Tuesday night's presidential debate touched on climate change and global warning, but also exposed Trump's ignorance or confusion regarding the issue.

"We have now the lowest carbon. If you look at our numbers right now, we're doing phenomenally," Trump said during the debate.

The U.S. scientific community took offense with the presidential blunder.

Scientists agree that "atmospheric carbon dioxide is at the highest level in modern history, though the rate of emissions has fallen due to the pandemic's temporary lockdowns," Scientific American published on Wednesday, in response to Trump's remark.

The globally-powerful environmental group Greenpeace, with assets of 60 million U.S. dollars and offices in 55 countries and regions, was more direct.

"Donald Trump and his climate-denying administration want you to believe climate change is a mystery (or an outright hoax), but that's just not true," Greenpeace posted on its website.

"In fact, science can tell us a lot about the causes," the report noted. Enditem
A formerly bankrupt cosmetic surgeon who performed botched surgeries in an unlicensed private health facility will be struck off the medical register for seven years after a finding of professional misconduct was upheld by the NSW Civil and Administrative Appeals Tribunal.

Les Blackstock was prosecuted last year and fined $255,000 for conducting a private health facility and performing treatments without a licence at his Enhance Clinic at Emu Plains. On Wednesday, the tribunal upheld complaints against Mr Blackstock relating to surgeries on 10 patients performed at the Enhance Clinic, and unsatisfactory professional conduct towards 12 patients.

Cosmetic surgeon Les Blackstock has been deregistered.

The complaints against Mr Blackstock, who has no specialist training, included failure to conduct appropriate pre-operative assessments, obtain informed consent, provide adequate surgical plans and post-operative care and keep appropriate records. Cosmetic surgeons are not recognised as a speciality by the Australian Medical Council.

He also inappropriately woke and sat up sedated patients during surgery to comment on or even consent to an implant, and invited friends and relatives into the operating room to give their opinion.
LOBAMBA - The Community Poverty Reduction Fund (CPRF) has left emaSwati in worse poverty.

This is based on the submissions of about 150 emaSwati who appeared before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) to explain why they were defaulting on payments.

So bad was the situation that some elderly defaulters even offered to repay their balances using the E500 they receive as monthly grants from government.

They included those with disabilities who said they would also use part of their E270 grant to pay off the debts.

Businesses

A majority of the defaulters informed the PAC that their businesses had collapsed and gave various reasons, from bad weather, illness, deaths in the family, unsupportive children and just poor business decisions.

The CPRF, which was a revolving fund when launched in 2010, is under the Ministry of Tinkhundla, Administration and Development.

The Principal Secretary in the ministry, Nonhlanhla Dlamini, informed the PAC that the fund was launched in 2010 with an amount of E20 million.

She said about E18.8 million was released and only E8.5 million was recovered.

The PS informed the PAC that to date the outstanding balance stood at E10 501 000.

Chairperson of the PAC Matsanjeni North MP Phila Buthelezi asked all the defaulters to speak the truth and make promises which they would keep before the PAC.

The first defaulters to appear before the committee were from the Lubombo Region and a breakdown of the monies owed was presented by the Regional Secretary, Anthony Masilela.

He said about 103 people from the region had borrowed the money from the fund. Masilela said WW39 of them had paid off their loans while 34 had promised to appear before the PAC and they could not trace about 30 of them as their phones had either rung unanswered or were switched off.

Under Dvokodvweni Inkhundla, it was revealed that an amount of about E211 000 had been distributed.

Under Hlane Inkhundla, the PAC was informed that an amount of E736 000 was still outstanding.

One of the defaulters, Hlobisile Matsebula, informed the PAC that she had taken a loan of E35 000, which at first assisted her greatly until her husband fell sick and eventually died. She said she had initially borrowed the money for a farming project. However, she said upon resuming the business after taking care of her husband, she found it impossible to access water in her area as the situation had changed.

Women from my area are treated as second class citizens and not prioritised, she said. Matsebula said at the moment, she made a living through selling atchar and made a commitment to pay at least E416 per month until the debt was settled.

Meanwhile, Lindiwe Sikhondze said she had received E25 000 from the fund and had an outstanding debt of about E11 000. She informed the committee that she had been running a salon when the business collapsed, but committed to repaying at least E1 200 every month.

Meanwhile, Sipho Malambule, who had received a loan of E95 000, said he had purchased a tractor, but then fell sick. He informed the committee that as a result he sold the tractor for E50 000 and took care of his medical expenses. He said although he was now employed at Mhlume, he only earned E5 000 per month and had repaid E25 000.

Gege MP Musa Kunene, who is the deputy chairperson of the PAC highlighted that although their submissions sounded genuine they could not be lenient on the defaulters because the debt was almost 10 years old.

He said the ministry must ensure that they checked how much Malambule really earned before accepting the E500 monthly instalments he was offering.

Meanwhile, one Ezrome Gadla Mahlalela said he had received about E30 000 from government and was an artist who sculpted wood. He said his machinery was faulty, but he was making means to repay his outstanding balance of E10 000 by paying monthly instalments of E900.

Under Hlane Inkhundla, Margaret Makukula said she had borrowed E5 000 from the fund and she used to be a hawker selling clothes. She said when her business collapsed, she had already invested in the Swaziland Women Economic Empowerment (SWEET) bank where she paid E500 and was informed that they would get shares.

Money

However, when I visited the SWEET offices we were told that there was no money, she said. Makukula said she was presently unemployed and said she would try and pay E300 per month, although she did not know where she would get the money from.

On another note, elderly Sipho Cosmos Mkhwanazi had the committee in stitches as he revealed that ever since he had taken out the loan, nothing had gone right for him.

He, however, informed the PAC that he would be able to pay instalments of about E2 000 as he now owned a bus, which he would use to ferry cane cutters during harvesting season. Mkhwanazi said he had taken out a loan of about E26 000 as he wanted to purchase an engine and tyres for his bus. However, he said when COVID-19 hit, he was not able to carry passengers at full capacity, but promised that by June 2021 he wanted to have fully repaid his debt.

The PAC constantly reminded the defaulters that they should not make false commitments just because they had appeared before the committee.

They reminded them that the long arm of the law would catch up with them if they continued not to pay, especially since they had signed affidavits committing to make repayment.

On another note, the PAC was informed that outstanding debt from the Hhohho Region was about E2.1 million while the Shiselweni Region had outstanding payments of about E1.8 million.






Rochester Institute of Technology professors have received a National Science Foundation award to develop a hands-on data science course for non-computing majors. The course will first be offered at RIT and then across the country, in an effort to promote computing for all.

RIT plans to start offering the new Data Science Principles course in fall 2021. During the course, students from many different backgrounds can learn how to extract knowledge and patterns from data that's important to their field -- and all without needing to know how to program or code.

The demand for data science knowledge stretches beyond computing to many disciplines that have become data-driven, including business, engineering, science, healthcare, and the humanities. According to an IBM study, the number of data science and analytics job listings will grow to about 2.7 million in the U.S. this year, a demand that won't be met unless universities begin educating data science expertise to non-computing majors in their own domains.

"It is hard to think of any discipline that does not need data science, which can help you discover useful models and make predictions," said Xumin Liu, associate professor of computer science who is leading the development of the course. "However, even if you throw data at a problem, you need to be able to read it and make appropriate decisions from it - that is the science part."

Liu and Rajendra Raj, professor of computer science, received a nearly $300,000 NSF grant to develop curriculum that can attract non-computing majors. The challenge is creating a class that doesn't require a background in coding or a long chain of prerequisite courses in computer science and mathematics.

"I was actually inspired to develop this course by my elementary school-aged daughter, who was doing a project to study sleep and video game playing time," said Liu. "I realized that just because you don't know how to program in languages like R or Python, that should not stop you from being able to analyze data and solve problems."

To address this issue, the professors are creating the Data Science Learning Platform, a web-based graphical user interface (GUI) that allows users to query with data science tools and analyze data, without necessarily requiring coding. It will also teach the computational aspects of data science through real-time code exemplification and a sandbox where coding can be used if needed. The project also includes a Data Science Course Module that provides the curricular materials needed to use the platform effectively.

The platform will include a help center that explains different computer science and data science terms. It will also feature in-house data sets and the capability for users to upload their own data.

"It's really important that these exercises are hands-on and customizable for each student," said Liu. "The intention is not to make these students computer scientists, but rather to help them appreciate and apply basic data science concepts within their own disciplines."

At RIT, the Data Science Principles course will be available to students outside the Golisano College of Computing and Information Sciences, who have already taken the non-computing major Principles of Computing course (CSCI-101 or ISCH-110) or Advanced Placement (AP) Computer Science Principles. The plan is to make the course part of the Principles of Computing immersion, offered through the School of Information.

The professors said that many students will find this course useful for their majors.

"For example, health science students can apply data science to process and analyze large-scale electronic health records to quickly discover life-threatening patterns that are useful for diagnosis and treatment," said Liu. "Students in business can leverage data science skills to finalize informed financial decisions and gain a competitive advantage. Engineers can make use of data to understand the impact of different models and establish the best ones for actual implementation."

When created, this will be one of the first data science courses available to entry-level students in all non-computing majors. University of California, Berkeley is one other college that has designed a popular foundations of data science course.

To make a broader impact, the professors will host workshops for faculty at other universities, who want to offer the course at their college. The Data Science Learning Platform will be free and open source.

In the future, they plan to create a version of the course for an even wider audience on edX, the massive open online course provider created by Harvard and MIT. They also hope to modify the curriculum and platform for K-12 students.

###
Queen Maxima delighted royal fans with two colourful outfits for several engagements in the Hague, today.

The Dutch queen, 49, first wore a hot pink dress to mark the start of Breast Cancer Awareness month at the World Forum.

She then performed a quick outfit change into a stunning orange pleated gown with a matching head band, before heading to the anniversary of the Social and Economic Council.

Busy Maxima looked stylish for both occasions, and wore a face mask, in keeping with guidelines put in place to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Queen Maxima of the Netherlands delighted royal fans with two colourful outfits for several engagements in the Hague, today. The Dutch queen, 49, arrived at the anniversary of the Social and Economic Council congress. The Hague, wearing a vibrant orange pleated dress

This morning, Maxima marked the beginning of October, which is traditionally Breast Cancer Awareness month.

As she was handed a book titled 'Everything about breast cancer,' the royal looked stylish in a hot pink dress, which she matched with magenta accessories.

Her colourful dress was beautifully draped at the shoulder and its fitted waist highlighted the royal's trim figure.

Partial to a colour block look, Maxima wore accessories of the same shade , from a magenta jacket which she casually carried on her arm to a Nubuck leather clutch with a golden chain, which hung at her wrist and a large raffia hat - a staple of her wardrobe.

The Dutch royal first wore a hot pink outfit to mark the beginning of Breast Cancer Awareness month at the World Forum

She was wearing a pair of dark red statement earrings underneath the hat.

She also donned a pair of leather gloves of the same colour, which she briefly took off to sanitise her hands as she stepped inside the World Forum for the event.

Her golden locks bounced on her shoulders, styled in a bouncy blow-dry. With half her face protected by her black mask, she put the focus on her hazelnut eyes with a dash of mascara and eyeliner.

There, she met with volunteers and cancer patients to discuss their experience of cancer symptoms, treatment and detection.

The mother-of-three wore a black face-covering for the string of events this morning in the Hague

Maxima took off her mask as she spoke to staff after arriving at the Breast Cancer Awareness month event

The Dutch queen beamed in the pink and magenta outfit, which complimented her blonde locks and tanned complexion perfectly

After the ceremony, Maxima sat down with volunteers and met with cancer patients to talk about their personal experiences

Maxima listened eagerly as she discussed cancer prevention, treatment and detection with some of the women in attendance

Upon arriving at the World Forum, Maxima took off her leather gloves and made sure to sanitise her hands

The caring Queen appeared engaged as she attention the Breast Cancer event and met with volunteers

Later, the mother-of-three performed a quick outfit change and attended the anniversary of the Dutch Social Economic Council congress.

She donned an orange pleated cocktail dress for the occasion, which was cinched at the waist with a belt of the same colour.

She completed the beautiful outfit with a headband made from the same material and colour as her dress.

She strutted to the event in a pair of golden heels, and swapped her red earrings for amber gems that shone in the light of the early afternoon.

Maxima then performed a quick outfit change and swapped her pink outfit for an even brighter orange ensemble

The royal, who wore a dash of make-up to compliment her healthy glow, was sporting a lartge headband of the same material as her dress

The Queen of the Netherlands looked stylish in the orange get up as she stepped out of her car today

The Hague's Social and Economical Council (Sociaal-Economische Raad, in Dutch, or SER) is one of the major architects of the Dutch Economical system.

It represents social partners trade unions as well as employers around the country through sector-based regulatory bodies.

Created to avoid another Great Recession following the Economic crash of 1929 and the second World War, the Council holds three main goals; promoting balanced and sustainable economic growth, full employment and fair income distribution.

It was first created in 1950, making 2020 its 70th year of existence, which Maxima celebrated in style.

A light breeze highlighted the tasteful pleated detail on Maxima's dress as she glided to the event
Pharmacists achieve more when we work together to achieve common goals. Independent pharmacy faces many challenges, and we are working hard to keep these small businesses alive to care for our patients across the state.

Independent pharmacists in Texas are continuing to join forces under one banner as they plan for the 2021 Texas legislative session. Today the Texas Pharmacy Associations (TPA) Independent Pharmacy Academy is pleased to welcome members of the Texas Independent Pharmacies Association (TIPA) as its newest members. TIPA is the second independent pharmacy organization in Texas to unite with TPA and join the Academy, following a similar decision earlier this summer by the Alliance of Independent Pharmacists of Texas.

In June, TPA announced the launch of its Independent Pharmacy Academy in a bold move to strengthen and unite the voice of independent pharmacy in the Lone Star State. The Academy will improve pharmacys ability to advocate for critical issues in Texas, such as meaningful Pharmacy Benefit Manager reform legislation, that are especially important to the sustainability of independent pharmacies.

In choosing to join the Academy, TIPA leaders recognized that for the profession to be most effective with its public policy agenda, pharmacy must speak with one voice. The Independent Pharmacy Academy is designed to advance independent pharmacys legislative priorities in Texas in a more robust and effective manner, with the resources and brand necessary to influence state officials.

Joining with TPA ensures that our voice will be heard at the state Capitol, said TIPA President J.D. Fain, Pharm.D., who was appointed in July to serve on the Academys inaugural Board of Directors. The Academy has already had robust and insightful conversations about our legislative priorities, and Im excited to see what we can accomplish this coming year.

In addition to providing a more unified voice for effective pharmacy advocacy in Texas, the Academy aims to advance independent community pharmacy practice by creating a forum to share innovative and entrepreneurial practices, discuss business challenges, and identify solutions.

Pharmacists achieve more when we work together to achieve common goals, said Academy Chair Aaron Gibson, Pharm.D. Independent pharmacy faces many challenges, and we are working hard to keep these small businesses alive to care for our patients across the state.

Academy membership is open to all independent pharmacy owners and staff pharmacists. Academy members must be active members of TPA and must pay applicable dues to the Academy as an owner, pharmacist, or associate. Learn more and join online at texaspharmacy.org/ipa.
YEREVAN/TEL AVIV: Armenia said on Thursday it had recalled its ambassador to Israel for consultations over Israeli arms sales to Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan has acknowledged using Israeli-made weapons in its fighting with ethnic Armenian forces around Nagorno-Karabakh, where heavy clashes this week have drawn international calls for an immediate ceasefire.

Protesting against the Israeli weapons exports, Armenian foreign ministry spokeswoman Anna Naghdalyan said "Israel`s workstyle is unacceptable. The ministry has to call back its ambassador in Israel." Israel`s foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Asked for details on weapons sales to Azerbaijan, an Israeli defence ministry spokeswoman declined comment. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), a leading conflict and armaments think-tank, Israel provided Azerbaijan with some $825 million in weapons between 2006 and 2019.

Those exports included drones, loitering munitions, anti-tank missiles, and a surface-to-air missile system, information from SIPRI`s Arms Transfers Database showed.

Separately, in a video interview with Israel`s Walla news website on Wednesday, Azeri presidential aide Hikmat Hajayev said Azerbaijan was using "some" Israeli-made drones in fighting around Nagorno-Karabakh, without specifying how many.

"(We) have one of the strongest (drone) fleets in the region. And among them we have Israeli ones, we have other drones as well, but Israeli drones especially, including reconnaissance and attack drones, and kamikaze `Harop` drones, (which) have proved itself very effective," Hajayev said.
A 22-year-old woman was gang-raped in Uttar Pradesh's Balrampur district on Wednesday, the victim later died. Recently another girl from state's Hathras district was gang-raped, she succumbed to her injuries. The country is in much outrage against the surge in crimes against women.

Amid ongoing demonstrations in the country due to the alleged gang rape and subsequent death of the 19-year-old Hathras rape victim, another woman in UPs Balrampur district has been gang-raped, who later succumbed to her injuries.

Approximately 500 km away from Hathras, a Dalit woman, 22, died from complications of alleged gang rape and assault. This dark event took place on September 29, the day when the police took away the body of the Hathras victim from Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi and cremated it sometime after midnight without the familys consent.

Victims mother claimed that she was abducted in the morning while on her way to get herself an admission in a college. Her family began searching for her when the girl did not return even in the evening. The family said that the perpetrators had sent her home in an e-rickshaw after they had committed the brutal atrocities on her.

Also read: President Kovind turns 75, Prime Minister Modi, Home Minister Shah and others extend greetings

Also read: Hathras horror: Outrage over victims midnight cremation, PM dials Yogi Adityanath; SIT to submit report in 7 days

She said that the men had injected her with some substance due to which she lost consciousness, then they raped her. She said that they broke her legs, they broke her back, a rickshaw brought her home. She added that she was thrown in front of their house, her daughter could barely stand or speak. She said the victim struggled to speak but she somehow managed and said that she didnt want to die.

The woman from Balrampur passed away at a hospital in Lucknow. The police reported that two accused in the case, named Shahid and Sahil have already been arrested. Although the post-mortem reports do not suggest any injuries on the victims body, the police have not yet verified if the case truly was of gang rape or not.

Also read: India successfully test-fires BrahMos supersonic cruise missile
Two joggers run along Albert Park Lake on an Autumn day with high-rise and apartment buildings in the city in the background on June 16, 2017 in Melbourne, Australia. (Scott Barbour/Getty Images)

States on Alert as COVID-19 Cases Wane in Australia

Australians must not drop their guard as the COVID-19 pandemic drags into October.

Thats the message state leaders are desperately trying to impress on the public with case numbers on the wane.

Victoria recorded just 13 new cases on Sept. 30, pushing down Melbournes 14-day rolling infection average to 16.4.

A further four deaths took the state toll to 798, closer to another grim milestone after global fatalities passed one million this week.

Exactly eight months on from Australia recording its first COVID-19 death on March 1, the national figure stands at 886.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews announced on Sept. 30 that workers in high-risk industries will be randomly tested for coronavirus as the state slowly eases restrictions.

This thing can simmer, it can be out there and not necessarily be obvious to you, he said.

NSW recorded four new cases on Sept. 30, all returned overseas travellers in hotel quarantine, extending its streak without a locally acquired infection to five days.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian is worried people enjoying the school holidays are becoming less cautious about social distancing.

Queensland expanded its border bubble to include 150,000 extra NSW residents in 41 postcodes on Oct. 1 as it recorded no new cases.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk is carefully watching NSW and Victoria as she considers when to lift more state border restrictions, but stopped short of committing to any time frame.

South Australian authorities will meet on Oct. 1 to consider easing more restrictions after also reporting no new infections a day earlier.

Meanwhile, WA has raised concerns about potential outbreaks triggered by ship crews granted onshore changeovers as it works to contain a 17-case cluster linked to a vessel off the Port Hedland coast.

Australian Defence Force personnel will arrive in WA on Oct. 1 to help police and security guards oversee the states hotel quarantine.
The cost of global cybercrime is expected to exceed $6 trillion by 2021 and the urgent need to protect critical infrastructure from cyber-attacks was the focus of an InnovItalyUAE session featuring experts from Italy and the UAE.



The Embassy of Italy to the UAE is holding InnovItalyUAE in collaboration with Khalifa University and Dubai Future Foundation. The series of six, online live forums are being held between September and December, and will explore opportunities to enhance bilateral cooperation between Italy and the UAE.



The first forum Cybersecurity: Towards a New Paradigm? commenced with a welcome from His Excellency Nicola Lener, Ambassador of Italy to the UAE, who said, Innovation is the most powerful driver to develop the world economy. It is the backbone of our country and remains a priority for investment. New technologies, platforms, automation and networks allow the development of new business models and help countries to grow, which improves government services and international cooperation. The discussions that began today raised a number of issues around impacts of cyber-attacks and how we can foster cooperation between Italy and the UAE and nations worldwide to deal with such attacks.



Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, Executive Vice President of Khalifa University added: We are proud to showcase our faculty expertise in cyber security and the related fields. We believe this forum, for the exchange of knowledge and ideas, will further cement the strong relationship between the UAE and Italy.



Noah Raford from the Dubai Future Foundation commented: Our priority is to look at how we are going to tackle the questions and challenges that arise and how they will benefit the region and the world. We provide direct support for companies and take pride in being a world-class destination for testing emerging technologies. We are considering what the next 20 years will look like and how we can explore international partnerships, such as those we have with the Italian public and private sector.



During the live discussion, eight prominent experts presented their thoughts on the challenges, solutions and opportunities for the sector:



Mohamed Al-Kuwaiti, Chief of Cyber Security for the UAE Government said: The UAE is moving towards a digital transformation and thanks to the vision of our great leaders; we want to build a safe haven for fostering all aspects to achieve the objectives of UAE Centennial 2071. Today in the cyber world, a network of thousands can be affected by just one click and we are working to build a culture of vigilance against such attacks.



The UAE is ranked 1st in digital competitiveness in the Arab world and 12th globally. Digital transformation is at the heart of our national strategy and we want to create a safe and resilient network. We will help and support many businesses and we look forward in working together to build safe cyber security across our two nations and globally.



Roberto Baldoni, Deputy Director of the department of Information for Security (DIS) in charge of National Cybersecurity Presidency of Ministry Council of Italy concluded, Technology is a double-edged sword; so many opportunities but many issues of security that can backfire. Cyber-attacks can harm essential functions and services of a nation. We are working with the UAE to become a cyber resistant nation.



InnovItalyUAE is a series of online live forums to discuss challenges and solutions in innovation for the following sectors: cybersecurity, space research, smart cities, life sciences, food technologies, renewable energy, water and circular economy. Governmental institutions along with academia and business experts from both UAE and Italy will address common challenges and set the scope for an increased partnership in the above sectors.  TradeArabia News Service


N icola Sturgeon today accused the government of treating humans like cattle in a holding pen after plans emerged to process migrants off the coast of Scotland.

A number of Government proposals for dealing with the migrant crisis have been reported in recent days, including processing them on a Scottish island, wave machines in the Channel and sending them to remote territories.

However, the idea of building a processing centre on an island off Scotland was strongly opposed by the Scottish First Minister.

She tweeted: They can rest assured that any proposal to treat human beings like cattle in a holding pen will be met with the strongest possible opposition from me.

Another option being considered is to buy retired ferries and convert them into asylum-processing centres, according to The Times.

The Home Office has also held discussions about moving migrants to decommissioned oil platforms in the North Sea for processing, according to reports. Ministers apparently decided the plan was a no go.

It has also been claimed that Downing Street has asked officials to consider sending asylum seekers to Moldova, Morocco or Papua New Guinea for processing, as well as the south Atlantic islands of Ascension and St Helena, which are overseas British territories.

Alan Nicholls, a member of the island council, said it would be extremely expensive and a bit of a logistical nightmare to transport asylum seekers 4,000 miles away from the UK.

The Home Office dismissed reports migrants would be shipped to the volcanic island but it was apparently put forward by the Foreign Office in a list of offshore locations.

Priti Patel (Sky News ) / Sky News

Other ideas discussed during blue-sky thinking conversations include boats with pumps that could generate waves that would force boats back into French waters, according to the FT.

Another idea discussed was to lay booms or barriers in the Channel to stop boats reaching the shore, according to the paper.

Home Secretary Priti Patel has ordered officials to draw up a range of destinations off the UK mainland in an attempt to deal with the number of migrants entering the UK in small boats.

More than 5,000 migrants have arrived in dinghies by the end of August - more than double the whole of 2019. Ms Patel has pledged to make the route unviable.

Such radical proposals are not new ideas among the Conservatives with similar schemes being floated in the past.

Shadow home secretary Sir Oliver Letwin said asylum-seekers could be automatically deported to a foreign island "far, far away" for processing. The idea collapsed when admitted he did not have the slightest idea where that island would be.

A No 10 spokesman said: We are developing plans to reform our illegal migration and asylum policies so we can keep providing protection to those who need it while preventing abuse of the system and criminality, which, as we have seen with the rise in gang-facilitated Channel crossings, is a problem. As part of that work, we have been looking at what a whole host of other countries do to inform a plan for the UK.
Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and around 150 of their party workers were briefly detained in Greater Noida on Thursday for alleged violation of prohibitory orders while walking towards Hathras to meet the Dalit rape victim's family.

Rahul Gandhi also fell down in the scuffle after police tried to stop him and his supporters from proceeding on the Yamuna Expressway near the Jewar toll plaza. Pictures of the incident were shared by the party.

The Gandhis were seeking to walk down from Greater Noida to Hathras after their vehicles were stopped by the police near Pari Chowk.

After walking for some time, they were stopped by the police.

The Congress had earlier claimed that the Gandhis were arrested by the police.

"Shri Rahul Gandhi, Smt Priyanka Gandhi and senior Congress leaders have been arrested by the UP police," the Congress said on Twitter, using the hashtag "JusticeForIndiasDaughters".

Police said they were charged for alleged violation of prohibitory orders issued under CrPC section 144.

They were also charged with violation of the orders related to the Epidemic Diseases Act, imposed in view of the COVID-19 outbreak, and booked under IPC section 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by a public servant), a senior Gautam Buddh Nagar police officer said.

"The two leaders and around 150 others were detained and later released on personal bonds," Joint Commissioner (Law and Order) Love Kumar said.

Kumar said there was no law and order situation in the district, after the Congress leaders left for Delhi and their supporters dispersed.

Party sources said they were taken away in a police jeep and kept in a guest house for sometime after which they were released. They then headed back towards Delhi escorted by the UP police, they said.

Priyanka Gandhi also alleged that the police used lathis on the Congress workers and many of them were injured.

Rahul Gandhi earlier questioned senior UP cops under which law was he being stopped as all he wanted was to walk alone towards Hathras to meet the rape victim's family.

"Can you tell me under which law can you stop me from marching towards Hathras," he asked the police personnel.

"I want to go alone to Hathras and on what basis can you arrest me," he added, to which the cops told him that he had violated Section 188 of the IPC of disobeying orders promulgated by the government during the pandemic.

Rahul Gandhi also alleged that in India today only RSS people and Prime Minister Narendra Modi can move around.

"In today's India, only Modi can walk or travel by air. No one else can," the former party president added.

In a tweet in Hindi, he earlier said, "In times of sorrow, loved ones are not left alone. It is Jungle Raj in UP that meeting a family in mourning also scares the government. Do not be so afraid chief minister."

The 19-year-old woman was allegedly raped at a village in Hathras by four men on September 14. After her condition deteriorated, she was referred to the Delhi's Safdarjung hospital where she breathed her last on Tuesday.

She was cremated in the early hours of Wednesday, with her family alleging the local police forced them to conduct the last rites in the dead of the night.

Priyanka Gandhi said they were repeatedly stopped from going to Hathras.

"When we all started our march on foot with Rahul ji, we were repeatedly stopped and lathis were rained on us in a barbaric manner. Many workers were injured. But our intention is clear.

"The sticks of an egotistical government cannot stop us. I wish these lathis were used by this police while standing in defence of Hathras's Dalit daughter," she said in a tweet in Hindi.

She alleged that an "arrogant power" is demonstrating its power "over the dead bodies of innocent girls" and it is indulging in injustice, instead of preventing it.

"Our struggle for women will continue for a safe society and state, where they can live freely and progress," Priyanka Gandhi tweeted.

Congress leader Randeep Surjewala put out a video along with a tweet showing Rahul Gandhi allegedly being roughed.

"Lala Lajpat Rai had said that every blow of a stick on my body would prove to be the last nail in the coffin of the British Raj.

"The sticks on Rahul ji and Priyanka ji's convoy will also prove to be the last nail in the coffin of the Yogi government," Surjewala said in a tweet in Hindi.

Congress leader P Chidambaram also alleged that none of the country's laws seemed to apply to the UP police.

"UP police is a law into itself. None of the laws of the country seem to apply to it," he alleged.

"What is wrong if the leaders of a political party protest against a gruesome crime and wish to visit the victim's family," he asked on Twitter.

Chidambaram said the two leaders were not violent, they did not carry arms and they were lodging a peaceful protest. "Why should the police stop them from protesting peacefully? Why should the UP police arrest the two leaders and take them away?"

"I hope the court where the leaders will be produced will release them," he said.

Earlier in the day, the protest by the Congress workers at the Delhi-UP border had led to major traffic snarls, with hundreds of vehicles piling up at the DND flyway and along the high-speed Noida-Greater Noida Expressway.
But as of this writing, Nebraska Medicine has not answered this central question: Did the hacking attack access patients medical or financial information?

Its imperative that the hospital demonstrate respect for its patients by promptly letting them know whether that information was put at risk during the cyberattack.

Any institution has an obligation to provide transparency in its operations, and thats absolutely the case when a medical facilitys electronic records suffer an intrusion by hackers.

Last year, Boys Town National Research Hospital agree to a settlement to resolve a class-action lawsuit over the cyberattack it had suffered. In 2018, insurer Anthem Inc. agreed to pay the federal government $16 million to settle potential privacy violations.

Nebraska Medicine is a respected Omaha institution that contributes greatly to our areas quality of life. The hospitals community obligations include informing patients in the wake of a cyberassault. Keeping patients in the dark in this matter ill serves the public. Its time for Nebraska Medicine to embrace responsible transparency.

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Photo: The Canadian Press

On his first day in Ford's top job, CEO Jim Farley is replacing the company's chief financial officer and announcing other structural and management changes.

The company says Thursday that Chief Financial Officer Tim Stone is leaving Oct. 15 to be chief operating officer at an artificial intelligence company. Stone had a short stay at Ford, joining the company from Amazon in April of last year.

He'll be replaced by John Lawler, a 30-year company veteran who has been running autonomous vehicle operations.

During Stones tenure, the company has struggled in the midst of an $11 billion restructuring plan designed to cut expenses and raise capital for spending on new technology such as autonomous and electric vehicles. Wall Street analysts raised questions about the pace of the restructuring.

Farley says in the statement that Ford has made progress under retiring CEO Jim Hackett, but he wants to speed up its transformation, which has been in the works for over a year.

The company has plans to grow revenue and hit a sustained 8% pretax profit margin, but Ford gave no time frame to reach that goal.

We are going to compete like a challenger  allocate capital to higher growth and return opportunities to create value  and earn customers for life through great products and a rewarding ownership experience, Farley said in a prepared statement.

Ford says it will expand its commercial vehicle business with new software services. It also plans to offer more electric vehicles around the globe including a Transit van and F-150 pickups. There also are plans for an electric Mustang, as well as unspecified SUVs including the Lincoln luxury brand.

Ford also plans to add more affordable electric vehicles to its lineup. Spokesman T.R. Reid said they would be largely for emerging markets, although they could be global. The vehicles are likely to be developed as part of a joint venture with Indian automaker Mahindra.

Farley is retooling the companys management structure into three regional business units: The Americas and International Markets, Europe, and China. He also plans a new business out of the self-driving system created by Argo AI, a subsidiary in which Ford is the primary investor. Reid said Argo software and autonomous vehicle technology would go to other Ford units, including programs to help businesses with logistics.

Wall Street wasn't overly impressed. Shares of Ford rose 0.6% to $6.70 trading early Thursday.

Reid said Ford is still working on the five-year restructuring plan, which could include further job changes. That's about making choices again around the business, adding people in some places, becoming more streamlined in other places.

Earlier this month the company said it would offer early retirement incentives with hopes of cutting its U.S. white-collar workforce by 1,400 more positions. The move was part of the broader restructuring.

Last year the company said it would cut 12,000 jobs in Europe and 7,000 white-collar positions worldwide as it trimmed expenses to prepare for a world of autonomous and electric vehicles. The 7,000 salaried positions amounted to 10% of Fords total worldwide and included 2,300 in the U.S. The cuts were accomplished with buyouts and involuntary layoffs.

The cuts were designed to reduce bureaucracy and allow the company to make faster decisions.

Like other automakers, Ford has been struggling this year as the coronavirus forced factory closures and chased customers away from showrooms. Factories that were shuttered have been running for several months and demand has been returning.

From April through June, Fords posted better-than-expected results with a $1.12 billion net profit. It was pushed into the black by a $3.5 billion accounting gain on the value of its autonomous vehicle operation. Without that, it would have lost $1.9 billion.

In August Ford named Farley, 58, as its new CEO effective Thursday. Hackett is retiring after three years at the helm. Farley, who has been with Ford for more than a decade, had been chief operating officer since February and clearly was being groomed for the top position.




October 1, 2020

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Original news Edison and Kuwait Petroleum present their project for a LNG depot in the port of Naples

Among the goals, to make the port of Naples a hub for trade in naval vehicles with less environmental impact

Today Edison and Kuwait Petroleum Italy (Q8), as part of the Naples Shipping Week, presented their project for establish a Small Scale coastal natural gas depot liquefied in the Darsena Petroli of the port of Naples ( 27 February 2018). Purpose of the initiative, for which it must be completed the administrative process for its implementation, it is to make liquid natural gas readily available as a maritime and land fuel throughout the Tyrrhenian area south-central and to make the port of Naples a pole of preferential attraction for the trafficking of smaller naval vehicles environmental impact by incentivising tourism and commercial sectors area.

Giuseppe Zappala, MANAGING DIRECTOR of Kuwait Petroleum Italia, a company that already has a coastal storage for the unloading of petroleum products Darsena Petroli of the port airport, pointed out that "this investment in the South testifies to the confidence that our shareholders put in the Italian market and strengthens the link our company with the city of Naples where for years we have been a strategic supply reference player energy, a role that with this new project will be able to find a new impulse."

Pierre Vergerio, executive vice president Gas Midstream, Energy Management and Gas Infrastructures of Edison, explained that the project in the port of Naples is an integral part of the plan strategic development of the company that involves the creation of the the country's first LNG supply chain to make sustainable heavy, maritime and rubber transport. We're already vergerio pointed out that the first coastal depot in LNG in the port of Ravenna with PIR (Petrolifera Italo Rumena) and we aim to make a second one in that of Naples in partnership Kuwait Petroleum Italy which is a proven partner experience in the area and with complementary skills to ours."







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Seat belts are among the oldest and most effective safety devices on cars. The latest data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration show that 14,955 lives were saved in 2017 due to seat belts. But this key safety feature has led to an occasional dangerous situation with children who wrapped themselves up in a seat belt and became stuck with the belt locked tight.

This danger recently gained attention when a near-tragedy occurred in Bedford, Mass., a community in the Boston area. Bedford police responded to a call about a child choking in a car because a seat belt was wrapped tightly around the child's neck. This was a very dangerous situation, one that I have not encountered previously in more than 25 years of public safety experience, Bedford Police Chief Robert Bongiorno said in a statement. The mother was able to cut the child free and apply CPR until help arrived.

How Can This Happen?

The front-passenger and rear seat belts in current model cars are designed to secure child car seats that arent installed using LATCH anchors. In order to keep the car seats firmly in place, the regular seat belt and shoulder harness can be used. On the belt, the automatic locking retractor (ALR) mechanism allows the belt to retract and tighten to secure a child seat, but it prevents the belt from developing any more slack outward. Unlike the emergency locking retractor (ELR) that locks during a crash, heavy braking, or even with a firm jerk on the belt, the ALR engages when the seat belt is pulled completely out. Trouble can occur should an idle child play with a seat belt wrapping it around themselves. Being locked, the belt retracts more and more, creating an unexpected, potentially tragic situation. And squirming to get free may cause the belt to tighten still further.

What Can You Do?

It is always unfortunate when a feature intended to improve safety causes harm, says Jennifer Stockburger, who leads Consumer Reports child seat test program. Thankfully, there are some simple steps that can be taken to avoid that risk.

Story continues

Stockburger and her team of child safety experts recommend:

For young children in car seats, be sure their harness is tightened securely to prevent them from reaching any belts that are near them. A snug harness should prevent a parent or caregiver from pinching any of the harness strap between their fingers when checked at the childs shoulders. (Learn more about properly adjusting a car seat harness.)

When a child seat is secured using the lower anchors (LATCH), buckle the unused belt for that seating position behind the child seat before you install it (take care that it's flat against the seatback) to prevent the child from being able to get at it.

Even when child restraints are installed with the seat belt, buckling belts in adjacent seats and locking them in ALR mode (by pulling the belt completely out) will allow the belt to retract flat against the seatback, but this will prevent them from being pulled further out, avoiding unforeseen danger. For seat belts where the shoulder portion of the belt originates from the vehicle ceilingmost often for center rear seats in SUVs and minivansconsider disconnecting the shoulder portion and allowing the shoulder belt to the ceiling to retract when not in use.

For children old enough to understand, explain that the belts are a safety feature that shouldnt be played with. Explain how the ALR works and that pulling it all of the way out will lock the belt. Teach them that they should alert the driver if they find themselves or anyone else in the rear seat with a locked belt to avoid danger.

If a driver finds that a young passenger has locked the belt, dont advise them to unbuckle to fix it while traveling. Pull over first.

If the seat belt should ever lock to a point where injury or strangulation is imminent, first try to simply unbuckle the belt. This can be difficult if not impossible when the tension on the belt is already high or if the seat belt receptacle is blocked by the car seat or a panicked child. As a last resort, keep sturdy scissors or a dedicated seat belt cutting device in the car. We hope it will never be needed.

Thinking through how to respond to this rare, frightening situation in advance can help you to quickly aid a child, says Stockburger. And learning how to properly use seat belts and secure car seats is a great way to bolster your familys safety. Remember that a pair of scissors can be a great rescue tool and simply handy to have onboard.
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP)  Protesters and Portland police clashed again in Oregons largest city late Monday, with demonstrators hurling rocks, punching a police sergeant in the face and spraying a chemical irritant at officers, police said in a statement. Twenty four people were arrested.

The demonstration with about 150 protesters took place outside a police union building that has turned into a frequent protest site, police said in the statement issued Friday.

The protesters with makeshift shields gathered earlier for their demonstration in a park and officers moved in to take away the shields, police said.

A scuffle happened when officers tried to seize a sign that said vote, multiple videos from the scene showed, and police also used pepper spray, The Oregonian/Oregonian Live reported.

Police in their statement called the protesters' walk from the park to the union building a planned unpermitted march.

Most of those detained amid clashes were arrested on suspicion of interfering with a police officer and disorderly conduct. The officer who was punched in the face was taken to a hospital for medical treatment, the police statement said.

Portland has been gripped by nightly protests for more than three months since the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis.

The demonstrations, often violent, have targeted police buildings and federal buildings.

Some protesters have called for reductions in police budgets while the citys Democratic mayor and some in the Black community have decried the violence, calling it counterproductive.
SEONGNAM, South Korea, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Humax has announced that it has entered the vehicle mobility market with a total mobility solution, including a service, device and hub platform.

The company offers a range of core technologies in the field of integrated mobility, including shared mobility, commercial vehicle fleet management, parking lot operation and EV charging, and has strategically acquired and invested in related businesses globally, including Asia and the Middle East.

In the field of shared mobility, RAiDEA, a technology developed within the Humax group, is making significant inroads into the mobility market. RAiDEA is an all-in-one mobility service platform that provides an array of services such as B2C, B2B and P2P. This technology is suitable for round trip, one way and free-floating infrastructures, and is designed for vehicles including cars, motorcycles, bikes and electric scooters. RAiDEA is currently being integrated into Korea's most advanced business-to-business car sharing service, Humax Carplat Biz.

Humax is carrying out a variety of projects in Korea, including the supply of mobility device platforms to Socar and Green Car, two of the biggest car sharing companies in the country. It is also working with key operators in Asia and the Middle East. The Humax mobility device platform delivers significant flexibility and helps service providers enter or expand their shared mobility business through tailor-made solutions.

In the field of smart parking, RAiDEA mobility hub platform (MHP) provides a host of parking lot mobility services via a single platform. With RAiDEA MHP, parking lots are transformed into hubs that deliver a comprehensive range of mobility facilities, including parking management, shared parking, car sharing, electric vehicle charging, vehicle maintenance and car wash services.

Leveraging its RAiDEA infrastructure, Humax aims to become a global platform provider to facilitate mobility as a service (MaaS), encompassing multiple means of transportation. A cloud-based integrated mobility platform, RAiDEA can deliver various forms of service that can be quickly and easily applied, and provides flexible over-the-air (OTA) updates.

Humax also supplies commercial vehicle technology to fleet operators and offers solutions to leading companies in its main markets in North America and South America. Its fleet performance services enhance visibility, control and insight into the operation of vehicles, and are recognized in the market for responding quickly to an array of customer needs.

"Humax will be supplying total mobility services equipped with the RAiDEA mobility service platform, mobility device platform, and mobility hub platform to the global market," said Jeff Kim, EVP of Worldwide Sales at Humax. "Not only are we delivering solutions to Korea's largest car-sharing company, but we have also signed contracts with major car sharing operators (CSO) in the Middle East and Southeast Asia to successfully expand our mobility presence along with our existing gateway business."

Humax is a leading provider of video and broadband customer premises equipment (CPE) and a total mobility platform provider. Its ongoing success is a result of 30 years of experience in the IT industry, aggressive investments and strategic partnerships.

Learn more about Humax's mobility solutions at https://biz.humaxdigital.com.

About Humax:

Founded in 1989, Humax is a leading gateway developer dedicated to providing better content delivery systems for the consumers through continuous research, development and innovations. With 20 overseas subsidiaries and branches across the globe, Humax currently provides 80 major broadcasting companies and mobile carriers with high-quality video gateways, set-top boxes and broadband gateways. Humax is also active in the field of mobility business encompassing mobility service platform, mobility device platform and mobility hub platform.

SOURCE Humax

Related Links

https://biz.humaxdigital.com


As far as Alberto Ruiz is concerned, the takeaway from Tuesday nights presidential debate is that Donald Trump recognizes no rules.

Not in life. Not in business. Not in the White House, and not in a presidential race hes increasingly afraid of losing.

Because a bully cant abide losing, hell call the debate a win  however unsavory his behavior, however much he lied, shouted and spoke over his opponent and the moderator, creating so much chaos that the bipartisan Commission on Presidential Debates is developing new rules for the next two.

But make no mistake, Ruiz said: The winner was former Vice President Joe Biden.

Matthew Hatcher / Bloomberg

More for you Straus: Election will reward Republicans who set their own tone

Ruiz, who went to San Antonios Jefferson High and the Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University and who practices law in Pearland, was already on Team Biden, though not in an official capacity.

He chairs an independent pro-Biden organization in San Antonio called Mexican Americans for Biden.

Its funded by the Ruiz Family Trust, established by his parents Margaret and Paul Ruiz. Paul, a nationally known educator and school reformer, co-founded the Education Trust, which seeks to raise academic achievement for all students, especially those from minority or low-income families. A San Antonio native, he helped found the Mexican American Civil Rights Institute, a new initiative based at Our Lady of the Lake University.

With a modest $10,000 budget, Mexican Americans for Biden will focus on social media outreach and messaging. It has produced T-shirts and made short videos using iPhones and Microsofts Windows Movie Maker app.

JOHN DAVENPORT /San Antonio Express-News

The goal is to get eligible Mexican American voters to the polls in November. On Facebook, Twitter and on its own website, the organization delivers facts and figures along with political jabs.

Its website says 36.6 million Mexican Americans live in the United States, accounting for more than 60 percent of all U.S. Latinos. It also says that 32 million Latinos are eligible to vote, but that in 2016, 14 million Latinos who could have voted failed to do so.

The project borrows slogans, posts and graphics from a variety of sources. One shows the average federal income taxes paid each year by teachers, firefighters and nurses. The figures range from $5,000 to $10,000.

Billionaire Donald Trump: $750, the graphic says, referring to a figure unearthed by a recent New York Times investigation of two decades of the presidents tax documents. It showed Trump paid no taxes in 10 of 15 years and paid just $750 in 2016, the year he was elected president, and the same amount in 2017.

Mexican Americans for Biden has encouraged Democrats to block-walk, phone-bank and make donations to boost turnout. Its one of many such efforts at the local, state and national levels.

Their shared goal is the largest Latino turnout in U.S. history.

The members of the Ruiz Family Trust  Ruiz, his parents and his three siblings  have been most riled by the disproportionate number of coronavirus infections and deaths among Native Americans and Mexican Americans and by what they see as the presidents lack of a coordinated plan nearly a year into a global pandemic.

Russell Lee Photograph Collection / The Center for American History / University of Texas at Austin

They point to Trumps relentless mischaracterization of U.S. Latinos as thugs and violent criminals and to his efforts to exacerbate the racial divide.

Every Sunday evening, the Ruizes gather for a weekly coronavirus family call, a tradition they began at the start of the pandemic. In one of those sessions, Mexican Americans for Biden was born.

The effort has been driven by pride in Mexican Americans history and their contributions to the nations development, the civil rights movements and all branches of the U.S. military.

Were the first settlers, Ruiz said. My father always says, Weve been here longer than anyone else. Were standing up for our place in this nation.

For Ruiz, one of the turning points in Tuesdays debate was when moderator Chris Wallace of Fox News challenged the candidates to denounce white supremacists.

Without hesitation, Biden did so. He also said hed abide by results of the November election. Hours before the debate, Biden released his 2019 tax return; it showed that he and his wife paid nearly $300,000 in federal taxes last year.

Trump did none of those things.

Instead, he urged the Proud Boys, a male-only group with a reputation for street violence, to stand back and stand by.

Stand by. It was chilling.

What was most striking to me, Ruiz said, was that he almost admitted hes the leader of white supremacists in this country, that he has influence over white supremacists and gave them direction.

Yes, without a doubt, Biden won the debate.

Elaine Ayala is a columnist covering San Antonio and Bexar County. To read more from Elaine, become a subscriber. eayala@express-news.net | Twitter: @ElaineAyala
Dave Foulkes - Brunswick Corporation CEO

Dave Foulkes - Brunswick Corporation CEO

Dave Foulkes - Brunswick Corporation CEO

METTAWA, Ill., Oct. 01, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC) Chief Executive Officer Dave Foulkes has been named by Boating Industry Magazine as its 2020 Mover and Shaker of the Year. According to the magazine, the award, which was established in 2010, recognizes leaders who have made major contributions to the advancement of the marine industry. Boating Industry profiles the winner and finalists in its Movers & Shakers cover story.

Foulkes was promoted to CEO of Brunswick in January 2019 after working in multiple leadership roles throughout the company since 2007. He joined Brunswick as head of product development in the Mercury Marine division where he led the development of Mercurys award-winning outboard and sterndrive engine line-up and introduced a wide range of industry leading technologies, in addition to having responsibility for Mercury Racing. Later, as Brunswicks Chief Technology Officer, he developed Brunswicks Autonomy, Connectivity, Electrification and Shared Access (ACES) strategy. Immediately before becoming CEO, he led the Brunswick Boat Group through a series of major initiatives, including refocusing the Sea Ray brand and exiting the large boat product-lines.

I am honored to be named Boating Industrys Mover and Shaker of the Year for 2020, said Foulkes. This award is really a recognition of the efforts and dedication of the whole Brunswick team which has demonstrated incredible commitment and resilience as we have refocused our business and established an incredible, industry-leading platform. Our focus on customer-centricity, operational excellence, digital transformation, product, service and business innovation, being a great partner to all our stakeholders, and a leader in employee experience and inclusivity will position us for profitable growth for many years to come.

Boating Industry credited Foulkess track record of developing exciting and innovative products as well as his deep understanding of technology as one of the many reasons why he was selected this year.

Story continues

This has been an extraordinary year, in every respect, for the world, our country, and certainly the recreational boating industry, stated David Gee, editor-in-chief, Boating Industry. Our 2020 Mover & Shaker of the Year, Dave Foulkes, turned Brunswick into a marine-only company, and then successfully  and profitably  navigated through a global pandemic. And in the midst of that, he also managed to spearhead new sustainability, diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, supported a business acceleration unit to incubate ideas for the entire industry, led the companys groundbreaking efforts at the Consumer Electronics Show and still brought 50 new products to market. Our award goes annually to those leaders who embrace the challenge of change, who display a continual and constant quest for improvement and innovation, and who brighten the future of the entire recreational boating industry and all of those things certainly apply to Brunswick CEO David Foulkes.

During Foulkes tenure as CEO, Brunswick has won numerous Innovation & Design Awards for product excellence as well as earned a Best in Show award for the companies debut exhibit at the 2020 Consumer Electronics Show. Over the past 24 months, Brunswick has won multiple awards for its commitment to diversity, women in the workplace and sustainability efforts including the publication of the companys first enterprise-wide Sustainability Report. This year, Forbes Magazine named Brunswick one of Americas Best Employers for Women and named the Company to its list of Best Employers, for the second consecutive year.

In the recreational marine industry, we see emerging trends that give us great optimism for the future, with a cohort of new, younger boaters and more women and ethnic minorities entering boating, said Foulkes. Brunswicks brands are ahead of the broader industry in benefiting from these trends, offering us a unique opportunity for sustained competitive advantage that we must secure with great products, outstanding service and exceptional experiences.

Among the many achievements over the past two years, have been the formation of the Business Acceleration Division, which is the home of Freedom Boat Club, acquired in 2019, and the Advanced Systems Group, in addition to several enterprise-wide Centers of Excellence that allow the companys top talent to work collaboratively on design, technology and manufacturing, and the establishment of a leaner and more capable corporate center.

Today, Brunswick finds itself in a position of strength with a clear path to a bright future as we pursue our mission to define the future of boating and deliver innovation and inspiration on the water to our customers and club members around the world, said Foulkes. We will continue to create new opportunities to access boating and deliver a better boating experience, and we will do it with the most advanced innovation capabilities and the leading portfolio of service and shared-access businesses.

Brunswick has also been praised for its leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, creating a blueprint for a safe return to work that has been shared with and adopted by other organizations.

2020 has been an extraordinary year  with unprecedented challenges and new, unexpected opportunities, said Foulkes. But through it all, we have maintained our commitment to the health and safety of our colleagues and their families, as well as to our customers around the world. The future looks bright for Brunswick and I am excited about whats ahead.

About Brunswick

Headquartered in Mettawa, Ill., Brunswick Corporations leading consumer brands include Mercury Marine outboard engines; Mercury MerCruiser sterndrive and inboard packages; Mercury global parts and accessories including propellers and SmartCraft electronics; Power Products Integrated Solutions; MotorGuide trolling motors; Attwood, Garelick, and Whale marine parts; Land N Sea, BLA, Paynes Marine, Kellogg Marine, and Lankhorst Taselaar marine parts distribution; Mercury and Quicksilver parts and oils; Bayliner, Boston Whaler, Crestliner, Cypress Cay, Harris, Lowe, Lund, Princecraft, Quicksilver, Rayglass, Sea Ray, Thunder Jet and Uttern boats; Boating Services Network, Freedom Boat Club, NAUTIC-ON. For more information, visit https://www.brunswick.com .

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this news release are forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates, and projections about Brunswicks business and by their nature address matters that are, to different degrees, uncertain. Words such as may, could, expect, "anticipate," "project," "position," intend, target, plan, seek, estimate, believe, predict, outlook, and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve certain risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from expectations as of the date of this news release. These risks include, but are not limited to: the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, including, without limitation, the impact on global economic conditions and capital and financial markets, changes in consumer behavior and demand, the potential unavailability of personnel or key facilities, modifications to our operations, and the potential implementation of regulatory actions, the effect of adverse general economic conditions, including the amount of disposable income consumers have available for discretionary spending, tight consumer credit markets, and the level of consumer confidence on the demand for our products and services; our ability to successfully implement our strategic plan and growth initiatives; our ability to identify, complete, and integrate targeted acquisitions; the risk that unexpected costs will be incurred in connection with these transactions; the possibility that the expected synergies and value creation from these transactions will not be realized or will not be realized within the expected time period; having to record an impairment to the value of goodwill and other assets; changes to U.S. trade policy and tariffs; negative currency trends, including changes in exchange rates; fiscal policy concerns; adequate financing access for dealers and customers and our ability to access capital and credit markets; maintaining effective distribution; adverse economic, credit, and capital market conditions; loss of key customers; attracting and retaining skilled labor, implementing succession plans for key leadership, and executing organizational and leadership changes; inventory reductions by dealers, retailers, or independent boat builders; requirements for us to repurchase inventory; actual or anticipated increases in costs, disruptions of supply, or defects in raw materials, parts, or components we purchase from third parties, including as a result of new tariffs on raw materials, increased demand for shipping carriers, and transportation disruptions; higher energy and fuel costs; our ability to protect our brands and intellectual property; absorbing fixed costs in production; managing our manufacturing footprint; outages, breaches, or other cybersecurity events regarding our technology systems, which could result in lost or stolen information and associated remediation costs; managing our share repurchases; competitive pricing pressures; our ability to develop new and innovative products and services at a competitive price, in legal compliance with existing rules; maintaining product quality and service standards; product liability, warranty, and other claims risks; legal and regulatory compliance, including increased costs, fines, and reputational risks; changes in income tax legislation or enforcement; certain divisive shareholder activist actions; joint ventures that do not operate solely for our benefit; international business risks; and weather and catastrophic event risks.

Attachment

CONTACT: Lee Gordon Vice President  Brunswick Global Communications & Public Relations Brunswick Office: 847-735-4003 Mercury Office: 920-924-1808 Cell: 904-860-8848 Lee.Gordon@Brunswick.com




We knew we were the first area that was hit with this and it is something that we either have to respond to now, or we will have to respond to later, she said. When people are scared . . . it behooves us to make sure that we are remaining open and people see how we are going about responding to this.
- Filmmaker Leila Djansi has praised President Akufo-Addo in a new post on social media

- According to the filmmaker, one of Akufo-Addo's ambulances has saved the life of her sister

- In her tweet, Djansi described the ambulances as well-equipped and world standard

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Ghanaian filmmaker, Leila Djansi, has showered praises on President Nana Akufo-Addo for equipping the National Ambulance Service (NAS).

According to the outspoken filmmaker, the new ambulances brought into the country for the NAS are of international standard.

The vehicles, she explained, are fully equipped and complete with monitors and resuscitation kits.

Photo source: Instagram/Sweet Maame Adwoa

Source: Instagram

In a tweet on Thursday, October 1, 2020, Djansi revealed that the world standard equipment coupled with the professionalism of the staff on one of the ambulances has saved her sister.

It is in appreciation of the service done to her sister and her family in general that the filmmaker took to social media to express her appreciation for President Akufo-Addo.

Djansi also prayed that hospitals in Ghana will become as equipped as the vehicles.

"Much appreciation to Ghanas President @NAkufoAddo for the Ghana National Ambulance service. A fully equipped vehicle complete with monitors, resuscitation kits and professional staff. Def world standard. Saved my sister. Thank you! Hope the hospitals also become as equipped."

It will be recalled that President Akufo-Addo, on Tuesday, January 28, 2020, commissioned 307 ambulances procured by the government for distribution to all constituencies.

The ambulances were in fulfilment of a campaign promise by the Akufo-Addo dubbed one-constituency one-ambulance.

The commissioning of the ambulances saw mixed reactions from Ghanaians. While the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) saw it as a needless fanfare, others praised the government.

Ghana Medical Association's (GMA) General Secretary, Dr. Justice Yankson, described as unprecedented, the distribution of 307 ambulances to various communities to assist in quality health delivery.

Dr. Yankson lauded the government for the initiative saying that Ghana in its history has not recorded anything close to procuring even two hundred ambulances at a go.

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- The suspects were accused of impersonating the EACC and KRA officers before demanding a KSh 2 million bribe from a company director in order to stop an alleged tax evasion probe facing him

- The suspects were arraigned on Wednesday, September 30, with the detectives preferring abduction and demanding with menaces charges

- Agutu was a whistleblower in the alleged theft at KEMSA in a damning investigative TV report on Sunday, August 17

-This was not the first time for Agutu to be the guest of the state as in 2017, he was arrested by police over extortion allegations using fake Identification cards

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Directorate of Criminal Investigations detectives have nabbed the Kenya Medical Supplies Agency (KEMSA) scandal whistleblower Goodwins Agutu and two other suspects for abducting the director of Hi-tech Enterprise

The suspects were accused of impersonating the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and Kenya Revenue Authority officers before demanding a KSh 2 million bribe from the director in order to stop an alleged tax evasion probe he is facing.

Agutu was a whistleblower in the alleged thievery at KEMSA in a damning investigative report on Sunday, August 17. Photo: NTV

Source: UGC

According to the DCI, Agutu, Alex Mutua Mutuku and Ken Gichovi Kimathi alongside three others yet to be arrested stormed the victim's office within Nairobi on September 26 and took his laptop.

"The suspects appeared again on 29th Sept 2020 demanding the KSh. 2 million bribe, and when the victim could not raise the amount, they forced him into the GK vehicle and drove off to Lutheran House along Nyerere road," said the DCI.

"The victim was forced to contact his family members to get the amount but only managed to raise KSh. 500,000 where the suspects escorted him to his house at Westlands in Nairobi and took the cash," the sleuths added.

The DCI launched a manhunt arresting the three at Lutheran House.

Upon interrogation, Agutu said he was running an NGO namely Network Action Against Corruption (NAAC), and that he was working jointly with the suspects at large who are allegedly KRA officers namely Houdouvia Njoroge, Harrison Ochar and Brian Kimemia.

The suspects were arraigned on Wednesday, September 30, with the detectives preferring abduction and demanding with menaces charges.

Agutu on KEMSA Scandal

Agutu was a whistleblower in the alleged theft at KEMSA in a damning investigative TV report on Sunday, August 17.

The expose' by NTV's Dennis Okari, indicated there was mismanagement of COVID-19 funds amounting to up to KSh 43 billion and selling medical supplies donated to Kenya to Tanzania.

The report showed how Tanzanian companies benefited from Jack Ma's donations, which included 100,000 masks and 20,000 testing kits.

"The consignment came, it was cleared and sold out. Some went to Tanzania. Over three-quarters were taken to Tanzania and the quarters that was left to circulate in the market were sold out to other companies who were suppliers of KEMSA. Thereafter they inflated the price and sold the goods to KEMSA," Agutu told NTV.

Extortion allegations

This was not the first time for Agutu to be a guest of the state as in 2017, he was arrested by the police over extortion allegations.

He impersonated a government official with fake job identification cards indicating he worked in multiple state agencies

When he was apprehended, he was in possession of a job card from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) indicating he was an assistant commissioner, a Kenya police staff ID indicating he was a Senior Superintendent of Police in the CID, and also another indicating he was working in the Kenya Pharmacy and Poisons Board.

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The same day Iraq's prime minister pledged to protect foreign missions in the country, paramilitary groups fired rockets in the direction of US troops in Erbil, the counterterrorism service in the semi-autonomous Kurdistan Region of Iraq said tonight.

Six rockets were launched from the borders of Sheikh Amir village in Ninevah province by the Popular Mobilization Units (PMU), "who were targeting coalition forces at Erbil International Airport, the counterterrorism service said, adding that the rockets were launched from a modified pickup truck. Two of the six rockets did not explode.

The Kurdish news outlet Rudaw reported the rockets landed in a field near Gazna, near a local headquarters of the Democratic Party of Iranian Kurdistan (KDPI).

The launch site was near Bartella, between the villages of Sheikh Amir and Tarjalah, an area west of Erbil in which the PMU's 30th Brigade has a presence, according to a statement from the Interior Ministry of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG). The 30th Brigade formally consists of Ninevah-based PMU forces, but has ties to the Iran-backed Badr Organization. Iran considers the KDPI a terrorist organization.

The indirect fire did not harm coalition forces, said a spokesman for the US-led coalition, US Army Col. Wayne Marotto.

"There was no damage or casualties. Incident is under investigation, he tweeted.

The United States has roughly 5,000 military personnel stationed in the country, many based at the Erbil airport, to advise and assist local security forces fighting the remnants of the Islamic State. To better safeguard troops from Iran and its Iraqi proxies, the United States deployed a Patriot missile defense battery to the Erbil base in April.

Tensions between Iran and the United States have remained high since the killing of Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani in a drone strike in January at the Baghdad airport. Iran responded with a ballistic missile attack on the Ain al-Asad Air Base in western Iraq that caused more than 100 US troops to suffer traumatic brain injury. Most of the cases were considered to be mild.

The most recent rocket attack comes as Washington mulls pulling its diplomatic staff from the country. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo reportedly told Iraqi officials that the United States will shutter its heavily fortified embassy in Baghdad unless Iraq does more to prevent Iran-backed militias from attacking US interests in the country.

On Monday, rockets that landed near Baghdads airport killed five civilians in an attack the US State Department said demonstrated why the actions of lawless Iran-backed militias remains the single biggest deterrent to stability in Iraq.

Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi met today with two dozen top diplomats and pledged to protect their diplomatic missions from future attacks. Iraq is keen on enforcing the rule of law, the state's monopoly on having weapons, protecting foreign missions and diplomatic buildings," Kadhimi told a meeting of ambassadors and charges d'affaires, his office said.

On Twitter, KRG Prime Minister Masrour Barzani said he had spoken with Kadhimi about holding the perpetrators accountable for todays rocket attack.

I strongly condemn tonights rocket attack in Erbil. The KRG will not tolerate any attempt to undermine Kurdistans stability and our response will be robust, he said.
Although there will be no short-term election after the NDP party reached a deal with the Liberals on sick leaves, the latter party is not out of the woods when it comes to what local Conservative and Liberal members of Parliament said of the Liberal partys performance during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Thunder Bay-Rainy River Liberal MP Marcus Powlowski said the best way to help the economy is to address the public health issue.

Another important thing for Fort Frances and Rainy River is there was a commitment for further support for businesses most affected by the pandemic and specifically the travel and tourism industry, Powlowski said.

Thats been something I have been advocating for a number of months. What form this further assistance will take is yet to be determined. I know that the people in the tourism sector were most affected. They said they do not want more loans. They want grant money.

Powlowski said the money that is used to help can be made up for by proposing a wealth tax and eliminating stock option deductions, a way rich individuals opt for to avoid paying taxes.

However, Eric Melillo, Conservative MP for the Kenora riding, said the speech was incredibly disappointing because it provided no details about how the Liberals intend to achieve the goals oulined in the speech and no commitments to the infrastructure investments the northwestern region needs.

Melillo said the Liberal government missed an adequate plan to address the COVID-19 health crisis.

The response to the pandemic has been slow. We know that they found out in December about the severity of the pandemic and they mishandled our [personal protective equipment] and our health supply, Melillo said.

We have also not seen any plans to get the economy going again. They have announced more and an extension of the same program which many businesses across our riding and Canada have been falling through the cracks. It is not providing them the opportunity to stay afloat.

Having already bypassed potential election, Melillo said trying to force an election has not been the Conservatives primary goal.

Justin Trudeau had the opportunity to present a plan to gain support from the House of Commons and he had the opportunity to put forward a new plan. He failed to deliver on that, Melillo said.
California public health officials Wednesday evening revealed the final metric that counties must meet before they can further reopen their economies. Its a complicated marker meant to ensure that communities of color no longer bear the brunt of the coronavirus pandemic.

The new health equity measurement had been promised by state officials for several weeks, since Californias new color-coded tier system for economic and social reopening was announced.

It was not immediately clear how the metric would affect Bay Area counties ability to progress toward reopening, though it appears that many regions will struggle to bridge large health disparities that mostly impact Latino, Black and Pacific Islander communities.

Our entire state has come together to redouble our efforts to reduce the devastating toll COVID-19 has had on our Latino, Black and Pacific Islander communities, said acting State Public Health Officer Dr. Erica Pan in a statement. This isnt just a matter of higher cases in these communities  it is an issue of life and death that is hurting all Californians.

The equity metric takes effect on Oct. 6. It primarily relies on the positive test rate  the percent of coronavirus tests that come back positive, which is widely used as an indicator for when its safe to ease restrictions and reopen a local economy. Higher positive test rates indicate the virus is spreading more quickly.

The new metric requires each county to ensure that positive test rates in its most disadvantaged neighborhoods do not significantly lag behind the countys overall positive rate. In order for a county to move to a less-restrictive tier, the disadvantaged neighborhoods  measured by a variety of social, health and economic factors  must come within 5% of the positive test rate required for that tier.

For example: Most of the Bay Area is in the red tier, and to advance to the less-restrictive orange tier requires a positive test rate between 2% and 4.9%. Under the new metric, each county must also prove that the positive test rate for its most disadvantaged neighborhoods is 5.2% or less.

But getting positive test rates to align across communities could prove challenging for many counties. In Alameda County, for instance, parts of East Oakland and Fruitvale have positive test rates between 13% and 15.6%  three times higher than the countys overall positive test rate of 4.5%, according to county testing data.

Counties that report a lag between positive test rates must submit plans for funding and preventing spread of the coronavirus within these communities.

Jane Garcia, chief executive of La Clinica, a network of health clinics serving disadvantaged populations in the East Bay including Fruitvale residents, said Wednesday the new metric will hold counties accountable and force them to focus their resources on communities that need them most.

I think that communities like the Fruitvale are going to really be able to take advantage of that kind of focus and get some help, Garcia said. To me it sounds like some accountability is being built into the system. And thats good for everybody because if we can get the Fruitvale under control, that benefits the entire county.

Oakland nonprofits, including La Clinica, and UCSF launched a coronavirus testing initiative in the Fruitvale neighborhood last weekend as the predominantly low-income, Latino neighborhood struggles with a disproportionately high number of infections. UCSF is expected to release the results of the testing blitz in the coming days.

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.

Communities of color across the United States have been devastated by the virus, accounting for the highest number of cases and deaths. An estimated 1 in 1,020 Black people have died of the coronavirus, the most out of any ethnic and racial group, according to data from the APM research lab.

Latino communities in particular have carried an extraordinarily high burden of illness in the pandemic. While Latinos account for 39% of the state population, they account for 61% of the states coronavirus cases and 48% of deaths, according to California Department of Public Health data.

Dr. Bela Matyas, the Solano County health officer, said he had misgivings about the new metric, which he argued would not help counties fix decades of systemic health disparities that are to blame for the disproportionate spread of the virus in this pandemic. He added that the equity metric was hotly contested by many county health officers while state officials tried to work out the details.

Its an absurd ask. The metric has nothing to do with things over which we have control, Matyas said Wednesday. I am 100% behind trying to achieve health equity, but its got to be done in a way that makes sense. Having said that, there was a lot of pushback (from health officers) and what they ended up with is a lot more innocuous than what it could have been.

Chronicle staff writer Lauren Hernandez contributed to this report.

Tatiana Sanchez, Erin Allday and Catherine Ho are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: Tatiana.Sanchez@sfchronicle.com eallday@sfchronicle.com cho@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @TatianaYSanchez @erinallday @Cat_Ho
Jan Zakin drew in a deep breath and paused before telling her story. The fear, shock and grief were still raw. But the telling was cathartic, making her feel like it was in the past rather than the now.

It was so frightening, she said. It was horrible.

The Zakin family of four  Jan, her husband and their two dogs  were in their St. Helena home at the top of Crystal Springs Road when the fire that would become the devastating Glass Fire started on Sunday. Their home and vineyards are just down the hill from the location officials said Wednesday was the likely origin of the wildfire.

Her husband, Jon, got up on Sunday at 4 a.m. to get a glass of water, the pain from his recently fractured hip waking him. He checked his phone and saw the evacuation order, Zakin said.

He called for his wife and they looked out the window. The fire was in its infancy  officials say it began at 3:45 a.m.

There was a wall of flames, she said. It was unbelievable.

Zakin and her husband grabbed their emergency bag and their two dogs, Winston and Zsa Zsa, and headed down their mile-long driveway in choking smoke, the world pitch black around them.

For a moment, Zakin, 60, fell silent.

Im getting choked up, she said before continuing on a phone call to The Chronicle from Carmel.

As they headed to safety, flames shot up on both sides of the car, but she believed if they just made it to the flat part of the road, they would all make it. Her husband told her they would be all right. She didnt believe him.

Every time we turned a corner, it was worse, she said.

Now Playing: Wildfires are once again ravaging Northern California's Wine Country. The Glass Fire threatens communities in Sonoma and Napa counties, including Santa Rosa, that suffered destruction from blazes in 2017. Video: San Francisco Chronicle

And then at the base of the hill, the flat part, they stopped. They were trapped. A car had hit a tree and was burning like an inferno. And a truck, its cab door open and the driver missing, was blocking the road.

Zakin opened the car door, thinking she might be able to move the truck. Thats when Winston and Zsa Zsa bolted out the door.

They disappeared into the smoky darkness. Zakin called for them, but they didnt come back.

The stranded couple was rescued by firefighters  who instructed them to descend an embankment by foot and then climb up to them. Zakins husband, his hip unable to bear the weight, crawled.

Firefighters  who have to come from God because who would do this work?  pushed them through a hole in the fence and into a fire truck, then an ambulance, which dropped them off in town, she said.

They checked into a hotel there.

Later that day, they found Winston, an 8-month-old Brittany Spaniel, who had been picked up by animal control officers. He was unscathed. Not an eyelash burned, not a hair out of place.

It took longer to find Zsa Zsa. Zakin had left her phone in her car and once the car was recovered, she saw the call from a St. Helena veterinarian saying they had her beloved 11-year-old dog, silver-faced Hungarian Vizsla.

Zsa Zsas foot pads had been burned to the bone. The vet was doing everything he could to save her, Zakin said.

It was a waiting game at the hotel, with a few trips to see Zsa Zsa, while her husband remained behind. During one of those check-ins at the vet, Jon called.

Fire Tracker Follow wildfires across the state Latest updates on wildfires burning across Northern and Southern California

Come back, he told his wife. Flames were heading toward the hotel. The couple fled again, heading to a friends house in the north part of town, only to see more flames.

They headed to Napa, where calls to the vet went unanswered. Zakin drove back Monday morning. The vet was waiting.

Zsa Zsa had died.

The loss and the grief, I cant tell you, she said.

On Wednesday, Zakin reflected on the past three days, an experience filled with terror and death, as well as gratitude for the firefighters, emergency workers and a veterinarian who tried to save a dog and refused to take any money for the effort.

The couples house still stands, Zakin said, a home she would trade in a heartbeat to have her dog back.

Its such a loss and to have her die like that, she said. I just know she must have been terrified.

The fear has started to fade some, replaced by relief that they didnt die that night and thankfulness for family, friends and strangers.

People have been so lovely and kind, she said. These things bring out the good in people.

Jill Tucker is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jtucker@sfchronicle.com
Hong Kong police arrested at least 86 people on suspicion of unauthorized assembly on Chinas National Day holiday after crowds gathered on the streets of a popular shopping district and other areas chanting pro-democracy slogans.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 1/10/2020 (478 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Police check pedestrians during China's National Day in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, Thursday, Oct. 1, 2020. A popular shopping district in Causeway Bay saw a heavy police presence after online calls urged people to join protests. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Hong Kong police arrested at least 86 people on suspicion of unauthorized assembly on Chinas National Day holiday after crowds gathered on the streets of a popular shopping district and other areas chanting pro-democracy slogans.

Those arrested included four district councillors, police said in a statement posted on Facebook. They said the people were arrested after they ignored repeated warnings for them to disperse Thursday.

Online calls urged people to join protests, and crowds turned up at Hong Kong's Causeway Bay shopping district, some people chanting Disband the police and Liberate Hong Kong, Revolution of our time," a popular pro-democracy slogan that has been banned by the Hong Kong government for alleged secessionist sentiments. 74 were arrested in Causeway Bay.

A heavy police presence outnumbered the protesters at the scene.

Separately, 20 people were also given penalties for breaching social-distancing regulations, which currently prohibit public gatherings of more than four people.

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National Day, which celebrates the founding of the People's Republic of China, has become a day of protest in Hong Kong by those who oppose Beijing's increasing control over the semi-autonomous city. Large-scale protests are forbidden because of social distancing restrictions due to the coronavirus.

In the afternoon, police cordoned off some areas in the district and searched people on the streets. On several occasions, they unfurled warning banners that urged protesters to disperse, saying they were participating in an illegal assembly.

Protests against the Hong Kong and mainland Chinese governments swelled last year, and Beijing clamped down on expressions of anti-government sentiment in the city with a new national security law that took effect June 30.

The law outlaws subversive, secessionist, and terrorist activity, as well as collusion with foreign powers to interfere in the city's internal affairs. The U.S. and Britain accuse China of infringing on the citys freedoms, and the U.S. has imposed sanctions on government officials in Hong Kong and China over the law.

At a National Day reception, Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said stability has been restored to society while national security has been safeguarded under the new law.

Lam also accused some foreign governments of holding double standards and levelling unjustified accusations against the authorities who implement the new law.
The former superintendent of a Pennsylvania school district and two other officials were charged Wednesday with felony child endangerment over allegations they knew about lead and asbestos contamination in the schools but failed to do anything about it.

A grand jury report unsealed Wednesday and obtained by The Associated Press says that officials in the Scranton School District were repeatedly told about dangerous lead levels in drinking water in at least 10 different schools.

Despite repeated reports over a period of years, the administrators not only failed to fix the problem, they misinformed the public, the grand jury wrote.

Former Superintendent Alexis Kirijan, former Director of Operations Jeffrey Brazil, and current maintenance supervisor Joseph Slack were charged with reckless endangerment and endangering the welfare of children.

It wasnt immediately clear whether the defendants had lawyers who could comment on their behalf, and they could not be reached at phone numbers associated with them.

Attorney General Josh Shapiro was scheduled to hold a news conference on the charges Wednesday.

An environmental engineer told The Associated Press in January that he first notified district officials in 2016 that he had found elevated lead levels in drinking water. Joseph Guzek said that when he returned in December 2018 and again in December 2019, he also found lead in the water. He added that top district administrators  who began working at the district last year and were unaware of the previous testing  took immediate steps to address the situation when he submitted his latest report in January.

Current and former employees of the Scranton district claim in a federal lawsuit that officials knew for years that unsafe levels of lead and asbestos posed potential health risks for students and staff but never disclosed the information to them or the public.

The district is seeking to have the suit dismissed, saying the plaintiffs dont claim they were personally exposed to asbestos in any affected rooms, or that they ingested affected water from any sinks or fountains. The district also says that employees dont have a constitiutional right to a safe working environment.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Domestic Violence: Korkulu Zubah was arrested after cops responded to the 300 block of South Broad Street. The victim told cops Zubah threatened her with a knife. She awakened to Zubah standing over her with a knife. She asked him if he was going to stab her and he threw the knife on the floor and went to sleep. The victim got up and left the house. Several months ago, Zubah allegedly pointed a gun at the woman after he accused her of cheating on him. Officers found the BB gun in the house and seized the knife as evidence. He was charged with aggravated assault, terroristic threats, criminal mischief and weapons offenses.

Machete Attack: Walter Rosario, 32, was arrested in connection with an Aug. 18 aggravated assault at a gas station. He allegedly attacked a worker with a machete while he was working on a vehicle. The victim had a minor cut to his arm. Cops reviewed surveillance that showed Rosario striking the victim because he was mad that the worker hadnt fixed his vehicle in four months.

Robbery: Ashley Henigan, 26, was charged as a co-conspirator with robbery and weapons offense following a hold up Sept. 15. The victim told cops the robbery happened on the 900 block of Carteret Avenue. Koheem Henigan and an unknown man showed up and told the. Koheem punched the victim and hit hit him with a taser. The suspects took his phone and backpack. Koheem Henigan and the other unknown suspect are still on the loose.

Sexploitation: Brian Crews-Urena, 24, is accused of exploiting a teenage girl who he knew through a friend for sex. Crews-Urena told the 13-year-old that she had to have sex with him on camera so he could send it to an unknown third person or something bad would happen to her family. The sex assaults happened in 2018 and 2019, and the county was involved in the investigation.

Domestic Violence: Rasheen Harris, 29, was arrested on a warrant after cops responded to the 400 block of Centre Street for an assault Oct. 4, 2019. He and the woman got into an argument over him talking to another woman. Harris punched the woman in the face and grabbed her by the neck until she lost consciousness. She had signs of injury, and Harris was charged with aggravated assault.

Drug Bust: Jabre Harmon, 26, and Kiir Bol, 25, were arrested after the boys in blue found them with drugs following a call about someone with a gun near Bayard Street. Officers were provided a description and found the three men standing outside a home, two matching the description. Harmon had a warrant out for his arrest, was searched and found with heroin and more than $1,000 in cash. Bol was not charged with the drugs but arrested on an active warrant.

Shooting: Police responded to a shooting on the 100 block of Boudinot Street just after midnight. Cops found a car crashed on the 800 block of Carteret Avenue, along with the victims. He said he was at a gas station with his nephew when they were followed by a silver vehicle. They saw what they thought was a laser pointed into their car before shots rang out. No one was injured, and the Shooting Response Team is investigating.
Kwara State Government will on Thursday hold its 1st Annual Gender Equality Conference with prominent gender rights advocates, diplomats, and policy leaders drawn from across the ECOWAS subregion and beyond slated to speak, a statement said on Wednesday.

A statement by Jamila Bio-Ibrahim, Senior Special Assistant to the Kwara Governor on SDGs, said the conference is to be jointly hosted by Kwara State governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and his wife, Olufolake AbdulRazaq.

Themed Galvanising the Will to Take Actions on Gender Equality and Women Empowerment, the event will feature speakers such as the former Liberian leader Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf; United Nations Deputy Secretary General, Amina Mohammed; and Nigerias Minister of Women Affairs, Pauline Tallen.

The conference, which is a webinar, would be broadcast live on the state-owned Radio Kwara (Midland FM 99.1) and across Kwara state governments social media handles, as well as on Nigerias only Women Radio (91.7FM).

PREMIUM TIMES will also bring the event live through its various online platforms.

Dr Jamila Bio Ibrahim, Senior Special Assistant to Kwara State Governor on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) whose office is organising the conference, listed the speakers to include the UN Women Representative to Nigeria/ECOWAS, Comfort Lamptey; ECOWAS Parliament Speaker Tunis Sidie; First Lady of Ekiti State and frontline gender advocate, Bisi Fayemi; and the First Lady of Sokoto State and leading gender rights campaigner, Maryam Tambuwal.

Other speakers are Deputy Head of Mission Of Sweden to Nigeria, Anna Raas; and World Bank Country Director (Nigeria) Shubham Chaudhuri.

The conference would feature a high-level discussion geared towards shaping actions and policies to improve outcomes for women in the West African subregion, the statement added.

Kwara under Governor AbdulRazaq has emerged a regional model of gender inclusion and women empowerment, with at least 56 percent female cabinet members, roughly 50 percent female permanent secretaries, and various governments A-list agencies and departments headed by women.

ALSO READ: Kwara govt announces resumption date for schools

In an op-ed article titled Taking Action to Empower in West Africa ahead of the confab, the Governor said the event offers a platform to push harder for gender inclusion in government and boardrooms as a strategy for inclusive growth.

Across the globe, societies are seemingly convulsed by campaigns for greater equality on gender and identity grounds. We have an equivalent gender parity problem in West Africa. It is more straightforward in many ways, but no less pressing. We must act deliberately and decisively to improve outcomes for women in order for Africa to reach its developmental goals, he wrote.

This is why, on Thursday, Kwara State, the Nigerian State of which I am Governor, will be hosting its first annual regional West African conference on gender equality and the empowerment of women. Timed to coincide with Nigerian Independence Day, our goal is to mobilise African leaders to galvanise the will to be intentional about gender parity in Nigeria and the wider West African region. We are hoping the conference will herald a second independence day for the 50% of our citizens whose interests have, historically, been deemed second priority.
A Japanese man who became known as the Twitter killer has pleaded guilty to murdering and dismembering the bodies of nine victims who had shared suicidal thoughts on the social networking site.

Takahiro Shiraishi told a court in Tokyo on Wednesday that the allegations against him were all correct, according to the Japan Times.

Despite this, his defence team argue that he is instead guilty of the lesser charge of homicide with consent, as they claim his victims  eight women and one man aged between 15 and 26  gave consent as they had expressed suicidal thoughts online.

Mr Shiraishi appears to be at odd with his lawyers, telling a local newspaper on Wednesday, that he did not have his victims consent to kill them.

"There were bruises on the back of the victims' heads. It means there was no consent and I did it so that they wouldn't resist," a report in Mainichi Shimbun said.

If Mr Shiraishi is convicted of murder, he faces death by hanging.

The prosecution says the 29-year-old created a Twitter account in March 2017 "to contact women contemplating suicide, whom he saw as easy targets", broadcaster NHK reported.

Eight of the nine people he killed between August and October 2017 were female, and the youngest was just 15 years old. The only male victim was killed after he challenged the accused about his missing girlfriend.

Mr Shiraishi strangled and dismembered his victims, the indictment said. The killings were revealed after police officers searched his Tokyo apartment for a missing woman and found dismembered bodies stored in cooling containers.

He is also accused of sexually assaulting all his female victims, and stealing cash from them, the Japan Times reported.

The accused is believed to have lured his victims to his apartment by telling them he would help them die. His Twitter profile, which used an account name that roughly translates to Hangman, contained the words: "I want to help people who are really in pain. Please DM [direct message] me anytime."

A ruling is expected to be handed down on 15 December.

Shortly after his arrest, Twitter changed its rules to specify users should not "promote or encourage suicide or self-harm".

If you are experiencing feelings of distress and isolation, or are struggling to cope, The Samaritans offers support; you can speak to someone for free over the phone, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.
Still Standing: an emotionally driven book about the authors trying circumstances due to breast cancer that allowed her faith in God to shine through and compassion to reign in her heart. Still Standing is the creation of published author Tennille Thomas, a forty-year-old writer and family woman who was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Thomas shares, This book is a true story about so many different things combined into one life-altering event. It is not anything I would have ever chosen nothing to do with any consequence of my actions. Ive lived a clean life and kept myself healthy throughout the years. But when you hear the words that nobody would ever want to hear, it turns your life upside down, and you forget for that very moment who you are.

Really, its about hope, facing a larger-than-life battle, and finding the strength to endure. Its about keeping a positive mindset at work and at home and around friends and family members. Its about taking charge of your life; having a positive attitude, knowing that youll do whatever it takes to not only be there for your loved ones but also to be there for yourself too; and having a mindset to keep moving forward to enjoy life. Putting one foot forth is the first step to make a change within yourself.

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Tennille Thomass new book is a masterpiece that reminds the readers of Gods love that dispels pain, doubt, and anxiety, especially during the darkest of times.

Witness the uplifting story of a woman whose determination and belief allowed her to surpass life amid her heartbreaking cancer.

View the synopsis of Still Standing on YouTube.

Consumers can purchase Still Standing at traditional brick-and-mortar bookstores or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about Still Standing, contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.
OTTAWA, ON, Oct. 1, 2020 /CNW/ - Diversity and inclusion are among Canada's greatest strengths. Canadians must feel safe in their identities, and free to be their true selves. That is why the Government of Canada is acting on its commitment to criminalize conversion therapy in Canada.



Today, the Honourable David Lametti, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, and the Honourable Bardish Chagger, Minister of Diversity and Inclusion and Youth, reintroduced proposed legislative amendments to the Criminal Code. These amendments are the same as those proposed by Bill C-8 in the previous parliamentary session. If passed, this Bill will make Canada's laws on conversion therapy the most progressive and comprehensive in the world.

The legislation proposes five new Criminal Code offences related to conversion therapy. These include:

causing a minor to undergo conversion therapy

removing a minor from Canada to undergo conversion therapy abroad

to undergo conversion therapy abroad causing a person to undergo conversion therapy against their will

profiting from providing conversion therapy

advertising an offer to provide conversion therapy

The legislation will also authorize courts to order the seizure of conversion therapy advertisements or to order their removal from computer systems or the Internet.

Conversion therapy aims to change an individual's sexual orientation to heterosexual, to repress or reduce non-heterosexual attraction or sexual behaviours, or to change an individual's gender identity to match the sex they were assigned at birth. It harms and stigmatizes lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and Two-Spirit (LGBTQ2) persons, undermines their dignity and negatively impacts their equality rights. It reflects myths and stereotypes about LGBTQ2 persons, in particular that sexual orientations other than heterosexual, and gender identities other than cisgender, can and should be changed. The practice can take various forms, including counselling and behavioural modification.

Criminal law reform is an important step toward protecting LGBTQ2 persons and promoting their rights, but more remains to be done. The Government of Canada is committed to working with provinces, territories, municipalities and stakeholders to ensure that Canada is a country where everyone  regardless of their gender expression, gender identity, or sexual orientation  can live in equality and freedom.

Quotes

"Conversion therapy is a cruel practice that can lead to life-long trauma, particularly for young people. Our Government remains steadfast in our commitment to protecting the dignity and equality rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and two-spirit Canadians, by criminalizing a practice that discriminates against and harms them."

The Honourable David Lametti, P.C., Q.C., M.P.

Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada

"Conversion therapy practices are rooted in the wrongful premise that sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression can and should be changed to fit an ideal of what some believe is normal or natural. By reintroducing this legislation, our Government is standing up for LGBTQ2 people and reaffirming our commitment to ensuring Canada is a place where everyone is free to be their authentic selves."

The Honourable Bardish Chagger, P.C., M.P.

Minister of Diversity and Inclusion and Youth

Quick Facts

According to the interim results of the 2019-2020 Community-Based Research Centre Sex Now Survey, 1 in 5 sexual minority men have been subjected to sexual orientation, gender identity and/or gender expression change efforts. The 2011-2012 results of the Survey also showed that lower income, Indigenous and trans persons are disproportionately represented among those exposed to conversion therapy.

Under their responsibility for health-related matters, Ontario , Nova Scotia and PEI have enacted legislation specifying that conversion therapy is not an insured health service and banning health care professionals from providing treatment to minors, unless they are capable of consenting. In March 2020 , Yukon introduced legislation to ban conversion therapy and in September 2020 , the Government of Quebec did as well. Other jurisdictions have implemented non-legislative measures, such as Manitoba , which issued a position statement indicating that it expects health professionals to ensure that conversion therapy is not practised in the province.

, and PEI have enacted legislation specifying that conversion therapy is not an insured health service and banning health care professionals from providing treatment to minors, unless they are capable of consenting. In , introduced legislation to ban conversion therapy and in , the Government of did as well. Other jurisdictions have implemented non-legislative measures, such as , which issued a position statement indicating that it expects health professionals to ensure that conversion therapy is not practised in the province. Some Canadian municipalities, such as Vancouver, B.C. and Calgary , Edmonton , St. Albert , Strathcona County, Lethbridge , Wood Buffalo and Spruce Grove, Alberta , are banning the practice and promotion of conversion therapy within their city limits.

and , , , Strathcona County, , Wood Buffalo and , are banning the practice and promotion of conversion therapy within their city limits. These new offences would not apply to those who provide support to persons questioning their sexual orientation, sexual feelings or gender identity (such as teachers, school counsellors, pastoral counsellors, faith leaders, doctors, mental health professionals, friends or family members).

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SOURCE Department of Justice Canada

For further information: media may contact: Rachel Rappaport, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Justice, 613-992-6568; Media Relations, Department of Justice Canada, 613-957-4207, [email protected]; Danielle Keenan, Director of Communications, Office of the Minister of Diversity and Inclusion and Youth, 819-934-1132, [email protected]; Media Relations, Canadian Heritage, 819-994-9101, 1-866-569-6155, [email protected]

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The Kremlin accused opposition politician Alexei Navalny on October 1 of working with the CIA, after Navalny said he believed President Vladimir Putin was behind the suspected poisoning that put him in a coma in Germany.

The accusation from Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov appears to be the first time the Russian authorities have directly accused Putin's highest-profile critic of working with a foreign intelligence agency.

It raises the stakes should Navalny fulfil a pledge to return to Russia, and may add to pressure on Western leaders, especially German Chancellor Angela Merkel, to take action over his case.

Navalny responded by saying he would sue Peskov over the accusation, challenging him to present evidence to back it up.

Navalny, 44, emerged in recent weeks from a coma after suddenly falling ill in during a flight in Siberia and being flown to Berlin for treatment. German doctors say he was poisoned with novichok, a rare Russian nerve agent.

"I believe that Putin is behind the crime and I don't have any other versions of what happened," Navalny told Germany's Der Spiegel magazine in an interview published on Thursday.

Peskov said Navalny's allegations against Putin were unacceptable, groundless and insulting.

"It's not the patient working with western intelligence, it's western intelligence working with him. That would be more accurate. There is such information. I can even say definitely - specialists of the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency are working with him currently," the Kremlin spokesman told reporters on a conference call.

In response, Navalny wrote in a post on his website: "Firstly, I am suing Peskov."

"And secondly, I demand the publication of proof and facts, demonstrating my 'work with CIA specialists'. Show it on television at prime time. You have my permission."

YOU KNOW YOU ARE DYING

Germany and other Western countries have demanded an explanation from the Kremlin for Navalny's illness. Russia says it has seen no firm evidence he was poisoned and denies involvement in any attack on him.

Navalny has posted on social media about his recovery, but the interview with Der Spiegel was the first he has given to a major news organisation since regaining consciousness.

He told Der Spiegel he would return to Russia, adding: "My task is now to remain fearless. And I have no fear! If my hands are shaking, it's because of the poison, not out of fear. I will not give Putin the gift of not returning."

Navalny was accompanied to the magazine's office by security guards, who insisted on choosing which bottle of water he should drink.

Describing the moment that the poison began to take effect, Navalny said: "You don't feel any pain but you know you're dying." He said he was making a steady recovery and was now relearning how to balance on one leg.

Navalny has tormented the Kremlin for years with online videos in which he details the lavish lifestyles and undeclared wealth of senior officials he castigates as "swindlers and thieves". In a country where opposition figures have little access to traditional politics, his anti-corruption campaign has become one of the few successful outlets for popular discontent.

He and his wife are currently living in a rented flat in Berlin, but he said he would only resume posting videos once he was back in Russia. "I do not want to be the opposition leader in exile."

The politician, who was visited at his hospital bedside by Merkel, said he felt a personal bond to Germany and was impressed by Merkel's knowledge of Russia.

"My impression is that Merkel needs no advice from me," he said. "But any Russia strategy must account for the depth of madness that Putin has now reached."
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said Wednesday that negotiators of the second stimulus are still "very, very far apart" on how much spending should go to the package.

McConnell tore into the House Democrats' plans for a second stimulus that was priced at $2.2 trillion.

He described the bill as "outlandish" and said the amount was "too high."

"Secretary (Steve) Mnuchin and the Speaker (Nancy Pelosi) are continuing to speak, but we're very, very far apart on a deal," McConnell said. He said both sides of the aisle were still in disagreement about the price tag of the second stimulus package.

The package, dubbed "HEROES Act 2.0" was unveiled on September 28. It will include a second round of $1,200 stimulus checks and $600 weekly federal unemployment benefits, said a CNBC report.

He said earlier in the day that the stimulus proposal was not a serious attempt to bring back Senate Republicans back to negotiations. He did not approve of the bill, saying it was "no more serious than any of their political stunts going back months."

He also warned that if negotiators refuse to get serious, "American families will continue to hurt."

Congress Adjourns in a Week

In a week, the window to come up with a stimulus package gets smaller as Congress is set to adjourn next week. They won't be expected to come back until after the election.

Pelosi herself said she was willing to keep the House in session until a deal has been reached.

So, despite disagreement from Republicans, she said House Democrats will move forward with the Wednesday evening vote. "We will be proceeding with our vote tonight on the updated Heroes Act in order to formalize our offer to Republicans," she said.

After setting the stage, they pushed it back until Thursday in hopes of allowing more time for a last-minute deal with the White House.

The plan from Democrats is unlikely to pass, especially with the clear Republican opposition. But even Mnuchin was hopeful that Congress can reach an agreement before it adjourned.

"We made a lot of progress over the last few days, we still don't have an agreement," he told reporters on Wednesday. He added that they still have "more work to do" and are "gonna see where we end up."

Without the second stimulus package, millions of Americans continue to struggle with food and rent. Many economists are urging congress to allow more spending to keep people and businesses afloat amid the pandemic.

Clash Over Stimulus Price Tag

From the very start of negotiations, it was clear that both Democrats and Republicans want a second round of the stimulus package. Another common ground was the Paycheck Protection Program and school funding.

The only sticking point was the overall price of the stimulus.

Democrats initially wanted a $3.4 trillion bill like the one they passed in May, but scaled it back to $2.2 trillion. Meanwhile, Republicans were closing off their end of the deal at only $650 billion to $1 trillion.

Mnuchin said negotiators will "give it one more serious try to get this done" and is hopeful that they emerge with a bill both sides agree to.

While negotiations on the second stimulus are still underway, a stopgap spending bill will fund the government and will avert a shutdown. All the stopgap bill needs is approval from President Trump.

Check these out!

Heroes Act 2.0: New Stimulus Package, Inclusions

COVID-19 Stimulus Talks Deadline Finally Set on Noon Wednesday, Democrats Say

Senate Approves Stopgap Spending Bill to Avoid Government Shutdown
New Delhi:

Indian software companies need to stop sending people on H1-B visas and focus on local hiring in the US, Infosys co-founder N R Narayana Murthy said on Friday amid rising concerns over Donald Trump administrations proposals to restrict inflow of foreign workers.

Stating that by and large Indian mind set is always to take the soft option, Murthyone of the pioneers of Indias IT outsourcing industrysaid becoming multi-cultural is not easy and is a very, very hard option.

They (Indian software companies) must recruit American residents in the US, Canadians in Canada, British people in Britain etc. Thats the only way, we can become a true multi-national company and in order to do that, we should stop using H1-B visas and sending a large number of Indians to those countries to deliver services, Murthy told NDTV.

He added that recruitment from colleges should be done and local people be trained to add value to Indian companies.

The proposed overhaul of popular H-1B visa regime by US President Donald Trump has raised concerns among the Indian IT firms.

Also, the recent introduction of a US bill (Lofgren Bill) that proposes doubling of the minimum wages of H-1B visa holders to USD 130,000 from USD 60,000 has made the industry worried.

Any changes in the visa regime may result in higher operational costs and shortage of skilled workers for the USD 110 billion Indian outsourcing industry.

I think even if the executive order comes, we should look at it more as opportunity for Indian companies to become more multi-cultural than we have been, rather than looking at it as a lacuna, Murthy said.

The US contributes nearly 62 per cent of the exports. Analysts are of the opinion that Indian tech companies could easily witness around 60-70 per cent rise in salaries of H-1B visa dependent workforce, leading to a 5-10 per cent hit on the margins, depending on the total base of employees currently on H1-B visas.

Asked why Indian companies were in panic over the protectionist stance of the new US administration, Murthy said Indian companies will have to learn to work with non-Indian professionals and become more multi-cultural.

I think by and large, the Indian mind set is always to take the soft option. Becoming multi-cultural is a very, very hard option, its not easy. Our managers will have to learn with non-Indian professionals, how to get the best out of them, how to work in teams that are multi-cultural, how to make sure that we understand the rules of crossing cultures, he said.

Murthy added that this was the only way to remove the risk of government mandating things like the executive order.

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A new report Thursday reveals Amy Coney Barrett has promoted the notion that Roe v. Wade is 'barbaric' as President Donald Trump has said he didn't know her perspective on abortion before nominating her to the Supreme Court.

The revelation of Barrett's views that life begins at conception will likely lead to questions about how her personal thoughts on the issue could shape reproductive rights.

In 2006, according to The Guardian, Barrett  who at the time was working as a professor at Notre Dame Law School, publicly supported St. Joseph County Right to Life.

The organization calls for the criminalization of disposing of unused or frozen embryos created during the in vitro fertilization (IVF) process, a perspective considered to be extreme even within the pro life movement.

Barrett and her husband Jesse were two of the hundreds of people who signed a full-page newspaper advertisement sponsored by the pro-life group located in South Bend, Indiana.

'We oppose abortion on demand and defend the right to life from fertilization to natural death. Please continue to pray to end abortion,' the advertisement in the South Bend Tribune stated.

Amy Coney Barrett supported a group in 2006 that called Roe v. Wade 'barbaric' and believes discarded embryos is equivalent to an abortion

The newspaper ad from St. Joseph County Right to Life, which appeared in the South Bend Tribune, denounced Roe v. Wade and called for its end

Barrett and her husband Jesse were two of the hundreds of individuals who signed the ad calling for people to 'pray to end abortion'

The revelation came after Trump claimed he did not know Barrett's personal views on abortion or Roe v. Wade, claiming he did not discuss that before nomination her to the Supreme Court

The new information comes as Barrett spends all week on Capitol Hill meeting with Republican senators ahead of her confirmation hearings.

A week after Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's death, Trump nominated Barrett, 48, to take her seat.

Ginsburg died at age 87 due to complications from pancreatic cancer.

Barrett, a 7th circuit judge and mother of seven, is a devout Roman Catholic, leading Democrats to question her nomination and whether she would be able to remain impartial.

In an interview with the Guardian the executive director of St Joseph County Right to Life Jackie Appleman said they believe life begins at fertilization as opposed to when a fetus becomes viable.

'Whether embryos are implanted in the woman and then selectively reduced or it's done in a petri dish and then discarded, you're still ending a new human life at that point and we do oppose that,' Appleman said.

Appleman added that any discard of an embryo during IVF equates to an abortion.

The 2006 ad asserted: 'After more than thirty-two years under Roe 47 million unborn children have been aborted. The majority of those abortions were performed for social reasons.'

'It's time to put an end to the barbaric legacy of Roe v. Wade and restore laws that protect the lives of unborn children,' the newspaper ad concluded.

If Barrett replaces Ginsburg, a likely outcome as the GOP-controlled Senate has the votes for a swift confirmation process, conservatives will hold a 6-3 majority.

Her presence, pro-choice Americans are concerned, could not only affect the landmark Roe v. Wade case, but also the legal rights for women undergoing fertility treatment.

Doctors who specialize in this area could also be affected.

'We support the criminalization of the doctors who perform abortions,' Appleman said. 'At this point we are not supportive of criminalizing the women. We would be supportive of criminalizing the discarding of frozen embryos or selective reduction through the IVF process.'

When Trump was asked if he discussed specific cases with Barrett or knew her stance on Roe v. Wade, the president said he did not do so because it was 'improper.'

Some claim Trump is rushing Barrett's confirmation before Election Day because he wants her seated on the Supreme Court in case it needs to determine the outcome of the election in the case of questions over who won.

Others insist the rush is due to oral arguments starting in mid-November on the Affordable Care Act.

Trump said he did not talk about any of these issues with the judge.

'As Judge Barrett said on the day she was nominated, 'A judge must apply the law as written. Judges are not policymakers, and they must be resolute in setting aside any policy views they might hold,' White House deputy press secretary Judd Deere said.

The White House also pointed out Barrett's decision in July to stay the execution of Daniel Lewis Lee, a white supremacist convicted killer  it shows, they claim, Barrett's willingness to contradict her support for all life from 'fertilization to natural death'.

Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham said confirmation hearings for Barrett will start October 12, and said the panel will move the nomination to the Senate floor by October 22.

This timeline sets up the Senate for a vote on the matter before the end of the month.
Researchers at TU Graz have found a way to convert the aromatic substance vanillin into a redox-active electrolyte material for liquid batteries. The technology is an important step towards ecologically sustainable energy storage.

"It is ground-breaking in the field of sustainable energy storage technology," says Stefan Spirk from the Institute of Bioproducts and Paper Technology at Graz University of Technology. He and his team have succeeded in making redox-flow batteries more environmentally friendly by replacing their core element, the liquid electrolyte, which are mostly made up of ecologically harmful heavy metals or rare earths - with vanillin, an important ingredient of Austrian vanilla croissants.

Sustainable energy storage

Vanillin, a commonly used flavour compound, is one of the few fine-chemicals produced from lignin. Spirk and his team refine lignin into vanillin into a redox-active material using mild and green chemistry without the use of toxic and expensive metal catalysts, so that it can be used in flow batteries. The process works at room temperature and can be implemented with common household chemicals. Vanillin is also present in large quantities. "If you want you can buy it even in the supermarket, but we can also use a simple reaction to separate it from lignin, which in turn is produced in large quantities as waste product in paper production."

Patenting and commercialisation

The separation and refining process was patented and the successful test results were published in the journal "Angewandte Chemie".

Now the researchers want to commercialise the technology, especially since the process is highly scalable and suitable for continuous production. Spirk explains: "The plan is to hook up our plant to a pulp mill and isolate the vanillin from the lignin that is left over as waste. Whatever is not needed can subsequently flow back into the regular cycle and be used energetically as usual. We are in concrete talks with Mondi AG, a leading global manufacturer of paper-based products, which is showing great interest in the technology." For the final implementation, the technology has to be tested in real operation. The company is now looking for energy supply companies that can integrate the start-up's redox flow technology into its infrastructure and thus relieve the burden on the grid. Spirk is convinced of its future success because: "We can keep the value chain ranging from the procurement of raw materials and components to the generation of electricity on a regional basis, enable storage capacities of up to hundreds of MWh, relieve the strain on the electricity grid and make an important contribution to the green energy storage.

Liquid battery as a piece of the jigsaw puzzle for the energy revolution

Redox flow technology is an important piece of the puzzle for the expansion of renewable energies such as wind and solar power, as it is characterized by the storage of large amounts of energy and can therefore cushion voltage peaks in the power grid. The batteries are also suitable as backup storage for stationary applications such as power plants, hospitals, mobile phone systems or e-fuelling stations. Redox flow batteries are more easily scalable, less toxic, more recyclable and more fireproof than lithium-ion batteries. Other major advantages are their high life expectancy and low self-discharge.

###

Original publication:

Angewandte Chemie International Edition

2?Methoxyhydroquinone from Vanillin for Aqueous Redox?Flow Batteries Werner Schlemmer, Philipp Nothdurft, Alina Petzold, Philipp Fruhwirt, Max Schmallegger, Gisbert Riess, Georg Gescheidt-Demner, Roland Fischer, Stefan A Freunberger, Wolfgang Kern, Stefan Spirk; DOI: 10.1002/anie.202008253

This research work is anchored in the Fields of Expertise "Sustainable systems" and "Advanced materials science", two of the five strategic research foci of Graz University of Technology. The work was part of the research project "Lignobatt - Lignin in Redox-Flow Batteries", which was funded by the Climate and Energy Fund and carried out within the framework of the "Energy Research Programme 2016 - Emerging Technologies" of the Austrian Research Promotion Agency FFG. Project partners at Graz University of Technology were the Institute of Bioproducts and Paper Technology, the Institute of Chemistry and Technology of Materials, and the Institute of Physical and Theoretical Chemistry. The team received external support from the Chair of Chemistry of Plastics at the University of Leoben and from the Mondi companies.

Contact:

Stefan SPIRK

Assoc. Prof. Dr.

TU Graz | Institute of Bioproducts and Paper Technology

Phone +43 316 873 30763

Mobile: +43 664 859 23 73

stefan.spirk@tugraz.at

http://www.cell-rocks.com/contact
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Russia's 'high-technology' forces are in a 'high state of readiness', a new report by a British think-tank says

Moscow has upgraded its nuclear equipment and wants to develop new hypersonic and underwater missiles

The report says Russia's military is more capable than at any time since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991

Russia's military might is at its greatest since the Cold War with its nuclear weaponry and air forces gaining particular strength, a report by a British think-tank says.

A decade-long revamp has given the Kremlin a well-equipped military in a 'high state of readiness' with upgraded aircraft and a 'high-technology' army based on professional recruits rather than conscription.

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Moscow has the world's largest nuclear warhead stockpile and has upgraded its equipment in the last 10 years - and is now pursuing hypersonic missiles and nuclear 'torpedoes' to modernise its doomsday devices.

The overhaul has made Russia's military 'more capable today than at any time since the end of the Soviet Union', the International Institute for Strategic Studies says, emboldening Vladimir Putin to spread his influence in Ukraine, Syria and elsewhere.

With relations strained between Russia and the West, the institute's Strategic Dossier warns that the revamped army is a 'capable military tool that Moscow has demonstrated a willingness to use or to threaten the use of'.

Russia's military spending is dwarfed by America's but the Kremlin possesses the world's largest nuclear warhead stockpile and a new report says Moscow's military might is at its highest point since the break-up of the Soviet Union in 1991

The report traces the overhaul back to the 'near-debacle' of Russia's five-day war with Georgia in 2008, when Moscow 'struggled to defeat' the small ex-Soviet republic.

Russia's conventional forces had long been under-funded after the collapse of the USSR and the resulting economic crisis, with only missiles given sufficient attention.

Russia fought bloody wars in Chechnya in the 1990s, and the Georgia campaign in 2008 'exposed shortcomings in equipment and training', the report says.

In response, a new State Armament Programme approved in 2010 led to a massive increase in spending and upgrades to equipment including combat aircraft and land-attack cruise missiles for the Russian navy.

'The upshot of the near debacle in Georgia in 2008 was a reform and modernisation programme that over the course of the following decade has seen a revamped military intervene successfully in Crimea, wage a covert campaign in eastern Ukraine and rescue the government of President Bashar al-Assad in Syrias civil war,' it says.

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'Though significantly smaller than their Soviet predecessors, these forces are better equipped, with professional personnel increasingly prevalent.

'Elements are held at high readiness, and Moscow has left behind the era of mass mobilisation, where units would be rapidly brought to strength with reservists.

'Today, Russia fields capable conventional armed forces, which Moscow has been willing to use operationally, as well as one of the worlds two largest strategic arsenals.'

The modernisation efforts have 'ultimately provided Moscow with a credible tool for pursuing its national policy goals', the report adds.

New introductions include the Su-57 stealth fighter which was conceived as a rival to America's F-22 Raptor and made its first appearance at a Red Square parade in 2018.

Russia has tested the fighter jet in Syria and plans to have three Su-57 regiments in place by 2028, joining a fleet of more than 1,500 combat aircraft.

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However, there was a setback last December when one of the jets crashed in the far east of Russia in an accident blamed on a steering system fault.

Meanwhile, the Soviet-era fleet of Su-27 fighters has been given a modern variant, the Su-35, with gives the air force its 'most capable fighter/ground-attack aircraft'.

Russia has also sold Su-35s to China in a deal worth more than $2billion and has held talks about a further sale to Turkey.

Moscow's total fleet of 4,163 aircraft across its army, navy and air force is the second-largest in the world and the same goes for its supply of transport aircraft and combat helicopters.

The London-based institute says the Russian air force has seen its capability improve 'markedly' while pilots are better equipped than before.

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While the air force is not as large as the Soviet fleet, it has 'benefited considerably from recent investments', the authors say.

Russia's Su-57 fighter jets, pictured at a military show in 2018, are joining a fleet of more than 1,500 combat jets in an air force which has been heavily upgraded

The Borei-class nuclear-powered submarine K-535 Yuri Dolgoruky launches an RSM-56 Bulava ballistic missile in the Barents Sea in August last year

Russia's nuclear weapons have also had an upgrade, bolstering the world's largest warhead stockpile with new mobile land-based launch systems to replace silos.

The Institute's report says nuclear forces 'continue to be viewed by Moscow as the ultimate security guarantor'.

Along with the air force, nuclear weapons have 'benefitted most from a near-decade long increase in investment,' it says.

Russias Strategic Rocket Forces have an estimated 302 intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) at their disposal, which can carry around 1,136 warheads.

Putin also has nuclear-powered ballistic-missile submarines and older nuclear bomber aircraft at his disposal, although these are seen as the weakest of the three.

Moscow has an estimated 6,375 nuclear warheads compared to America's 5,800 and Britain's 215, according to the Arms Control Association.

The Soviet Union had around 40,000 warheads at its peak but fears of a new arms race have grown after the US backed out of a Cold War-era treaty last year.

The Trump administration quit the pact after accusing Russia of violating the agreement signed by Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev in 1987.

Russia responded by ordering a ground-launched version of the Kalibr cruise missile to be built, adapting a weapon previously launched from warships and submarines.

Moscow also wants its rocket scientists to develop a new hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile.

Such weapons had previously been banned by the so-called INF treaty which prohibited short-and intermediate-range missiles launched from the ground.

Putin also wants to give the Russian navy an underwater drone or 'torpedo' armed with nuclear strike weapons and carried by submarines.

The president has often spoken of a new generation of Russian nuclear weapons that he says are unequalled and can hit almost anywhere in the world, although Western experts have questioned his boasts.

Upgrades in Russia's land and naval forces have been 'patchier', the report says, but they have still seen 'considerable improvements in capability'.

Russia has only one aircraft carrier, the Admiral Kuznetsov, and suffered embarrassment when it caught fire last year, killing one sailor.

The Russian fleet of 16 destroyers is also dwarfed by America's fleet of 91, while defence chiefs are still relying on 'ageing' Soviet-era vessels.

Russian soldiers and their military police vehicle carry out a patrol in Syria last year as Moscow extends its influence in the Middle East

Russia has only one aircraft carrier, the Admiral Kuznetzov (pictured), and analysts say improvements in the navy have been more 'patchy'

However, naval firepower has been 'extended by the widespread introduction of land-attack cruise missiles' such as the Club-K.

The missile system can be hidden inside a shipping container, theoretically giving any merchant vessel the capability to wipe out an aircraft carrier.

Russia's ground forces, which number 400,000 troops supplied with nearly 40,000 tanks and armoured vehicles, are described as 'smaller and more capable' than in the 1990s.

'Elements of these forces are held at a high state of readiness and have had recent combat experience,' the report says.

'The re-equipment programme has been complemented by reforms to create a core of professional military, much of it held at a high state of readiness, rather than depend on conscription.'

Russian men are currently required to complete 12 months of military service, although Putin has spoken of winding down conscription.

Putin boasted to Russian lawmakers in 2018 that the Kremlin now has a 'modern high-technology army'.

Analysts noted 'particular progress in improving artillery and missile capabilities' with new equipment including the Iskander-M missile system.

Washington has previously accused Russia of 'destabilising' Europe by placing the nuclear-capable missiles in its Kaliningrad exclave that borders Poland and Lithuania.

The armed forces as a whole have also had their computer systems upgraded to replace what was 'mainly a paper-based process' for issuing commands.

The supply of money is likely to be smaller in coming years, not least because of the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

A document published by Russia's finance ministry in July proposed a five per cent cut in military spending between 2021 and 2023.

Still, 'when combined with Moscows more assertive foreign policy, Russias armed forces in 2020 constitute a capability that should not be ignored,' the report says.

Russia has become a major power-broker in the Middle East after Donald Trump pulled US forces out of Syria, leaving Moscow and Ankara to pick up the pieces.

Putin's support has helped Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad to win back nearly all the territory lost to rebels who tried to overthrow him during the civil war.

Analysts traced the revamp of Russia's military back to a near-disaster in a war with Georgia in 2008 (Russian troops are pictured securing a settlement during that conflict)

A pro-Russian separatist stands at the crash site of MH17 in Ukraine, a disaster which investigators blamed on a missile transported from a Russian military base

The official Russian deployment is thought to be about 5,000 troops, but mercenary group Wagner is also known to have fought in Syria.

The Kremlin insists that Wagner does not take orders from the Russian state, but evidence has emerged of links between mercenary leaders and Moscow's top brass.

Syrian opposition groups claim that Wagner has been recruiting people under the supervision of the Russian army, which supports Assad.

In contrast to unpopular wars in Afghanistan and Chechnya, the Syrian conflict has seen a low Russian death toll because of the use of private contractors.

Washington has also accused Russia of deploying Wagner troops in Libya who have allegedly deployed land mines in and around Tripoli.

In Ukraine, Putin similarly denies an official Russian presence but Moscow is widely accused of helping separatists in the east of the country.

The US says that Russia 'arms, trains, finances, leads, and fights alongside' the pro-Kremlin forces.

Investigators say the missile that shot down passenger flight MH17 six years ago had been transported from a Russian military base in Kursk.

Russia annexed Crimea in 2014 and rubber-stamped its takeover with a referendum which was widely seen as illegitimate.

Meanwhile, relations between Russia and the West have been badly damaged by the poisonings of Sergei Skripal in 2018 and Alexei Navalny in 2020.

Both men were found to be poisoned with Novichok, a Soviet-era nerve agent, leading to widespread suspicion of Russian involvement.

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Allegations of Russian meddling in Western elections has also damaged relations. Putin denies this.
The in-flight mobile service launched by Reliance Jio in partnership with the Panasonic Avionics Corporation subsidiary, AeroMobile, will be available in 22 partner airlines at various airports, a company statement said on Friday.

With this service, JioPostpaid Plus users will be able to stay connected with voice and data services on flights while travelling abroad, according to the statement. The services will be available for all Jio customers once the services are available in the Indian airspace.

All the in-flight mobile services will be available in Air Serbia, Alitalia, Asiana Airlines, Biman Bangladesh Airlines, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Euro Wings, Kuwait Airways, Malaysia Airlines, Malindo Air, SAS Scandinavian Airlines, SWISS, Uzbekistan Airways, and Virgin Atlantic at several airports.

However, only data and SMS services will be available on Aer Lingus, Cathay Pacific, Egypt Air, EVA Air, Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, TAP Air Portugal, and Turkish Airlines at several airports.

Jio Director Akash Ambani said, "JioPostpaid Plus brings with it industry-defining and highest-quality user experience, and through our partnership with AeroMobile we will now offer in-flight roaming services at an attractive price. We are delighted to bring this new service to our customers, who will be able to enjoy seamless, high-quality, and secure roaming at 20,000 feet, keeping every JioPostpaid Plus user connected, always."

The in-flight mobile service will be available for users at 499 for 250 MB data, 100 minutes of outgoing calls and 100 messages for a day, while 699 and 999 packs include 500 MB data and 1 GB data respectively with 100 minutes of outgoing calls and 100 messages.

Kevin Rogers, Sr Director Mobility Panasonic Avionics, CEO AeroMobile, said, "We are pleased to partner with Jio, and broaden the reach of our connectivity services across India. With the new in-flight roaming bundle, JioPostpaid Plus customers no longer need to worry about connectivity whilst travelling. This new market-leading proposition shows continued commitment to providing the very best service to customers."

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Baghdad: At least six missiles targeting Irbil international airport in northern Iraq were intercepted on Wednesday evening (Thursday AEST), a statement from the Kurdish Interior Ministry said, as diplomatic tensions between Washington and Baghdad mounted over a spate of rocket attacks targeting the US presence.

The US-led coalition maintains troops on a base inside the airport. The recent attacks have, until now, exclusively targeted the heavily fortified Green Zone, the seat of the Baghdad government, and the capital's airport. Roadside bombs have also routinely targeted convoys carrying materials for the US-led coalition forces.

Women inspect the aftermath of a katyusha rocket attack near international airport in Baghdad, Iraq. Credit:AP

According to the statement, the missiles were intercepted at 8.30pm and did not cause any major damage. Two Kurdish officials said one of the rockets hit the headquarters of an Iranian-Kurdish opposition party banned in Iran. The officials requested anonymity in line with regulations.

The statement said the rockets were fired from a ute near Bartella, south of Irbil in Nineveh province, which are areas under the purview of Brigade 30 of the Popular Mobilisation Forces. The brigade is composed of ethnic Shabak militiamen. The PMF is an umbrella grouping of mostly Iran-backed Iraqi Shiite militias that is part of Iraq's armed forces.
Photo: BC Wildfire Service BC Wildfire Service crews working near Penticton in August.

Hundreds of firefighters from across British Columbia have been working tirelessly south of the border over the past two weeks.

On the morning of Sept. 18, 207 BC Wildfire Service firefighters drove across the border in a large convoy, making it to Redmond, Ore. that evening. Since then, the B.C. crews have been helping fight the 78,000-hectare Beachie Creek wildfire and the 70,000-hectare Holiday Farm wildfire.

The following week, another 143 B.C. firefighters travelled to California to assist American crews on the North Complex Fire, just east of Chico, Calif. That fire is currently pegged at just over 127,000 hectares.

Most of the fire activity that they're seeing [in Oregon], from the reports that I'm reading at least, isn't as hectic as it has been, just due to some of the weather that they have there that's working in their favour, said Forrest Tower, fire information officer with the BC Wildfire Service. The weather is not as extreme as it was before.

But these Oregon fires have been very destructive since they were sparked in August. The Beachie Creek fire, east of Salem, Ore., has destroyed 486 homes and 837 other structures, while the Holiday Farm fire, east of Eugene, Ore., has burned 432 home and 337 other structures. Beachie Creek is now 58 per cent contained while Holiday Farm has 65 per cent containment.

Tower says B.C. crews are doing similar day-to-day tasks as they do at home, like constructing hand guards, ensuring the fire is extinguished near its perimeter and responding to hot spots.

Throughout the deployment, Canadian crews, which include help from Ontario and Alberta, are keeping separate from their American counterparts, in an effort to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission. This includes maintaining that separation in the firefighters' camp.

We're in our own separate area, and we have our own shower access and our meals are separate and everything, Tower said.

Upon their return home, they will be self isolating for the required 14 days.

The B.C. crews can remain in the U.S. for a total of 19 days, which means those working in Oregon will be coming home next week, while those in California will be working until the following week. Tower says they haven't received any more requests from American authorities for additional deployments, but added it's possible an additional request could come for the California fires.

To date, a record-breaking 1.52 million hectares of California has burned, destroying close to 8,000 buildings and killing 26 people.
(Independent)

Seven mourners were shot and wounded as they attended a funeral in Wisconsin, according to reports.

A gunman pulled up in a car outside the Serenity Funeral Home in Milwaukee and opened fire on a crowd of 100 people gathering for the ceremony on Wednesday.

The victims, who are aged between 24 and 48, are all in stable condition in a city hospital, say police.

Acting Milwaukee police chief Michael Brunson said that they are all expected to survive at this stage.

Authorities are continuing in their search for the attacker.
Envoy Pushes Pakistan to Press Taliban to Lessen Violence

ISLAMABADAfghanistans chief peace envoy Abdullah Abdullah ended a three-day visit to Pakistan on Sept. 30 optimistic the uneasy neighbors have turned a corner from a relationship marked by suspicion and downright hostility toward a partnership for peace in the region.

In an interview in the Pakistani capital, Abdullah said he asked Pakistans powerful military to use its influence to press the Taliban into a reduction of violence, which could be seen as a first indication the two neighbors share the same goal of peace.

Abdullahs first visit to Pakistan in 12 years comes at a crucial time for Afghanistan as government negotiators sit across the table from the Taliban in the Middle Eastern State of Qatar to plot a future course for a post-war Afghanistan.

As chief of Afghanistans High Council for National Reconciliation, Abdullah oversees the government side in negotiations. His visit to Pakistan was seen as particularly significant because of the ties the Taliban have with Pakistan, especially with the powerful military, which is largely responsible for the countrys Afghan policy.

Abdullah said he has asked not just Pakistan, but Washington and every other country that has a voice at the Afghan table, to press for a reduction of violence with the Taliban. Still, for most Afghans, Pakistan is seen as having the greatest leverage with the Taliban, whose ruling council is widely thought to be headquartered in southwestern Baluchistan.

Its in their best interest of peace to encourage the Taliban [but] if cease-fire today, for example, is too heavy a word for the Taliban, let us talk together to find what can we do so that people see that there are changes in the security environment, Abdullah said, referring to a reduction in violence.

It is time [for the Taliban] to show some practical signs of their commitment for peace.  Why are they not giving the people a chance to breathe and to see that things are happening?

Pakistan has been applauded by Washington and Kabul for its role in getting the Taliban to the peace table, first indirect talks with the United States, which resulted in an agreement that led to the so-called intra-Afghan negotiations now underway in Doha.

In meetings with Abdullah, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan endorsed a peaceful end to Afghanistans relentless wars and also called for a reduction in violence by all sides in the conflict, a welcome call, said Abdullah.

Still, for many Afghans, Pakistan is viewed with deep mistrust, blamed for a resurgence of the Taliban after their defeat by the U.S.-led coalition in 2001 by giving the religious insurgents a safe haven from which to operate.

Pakistan is seen by many in Afghanistan as wanting to keep the Taliban as possible leverage against influence in Afghanistan by its long-time enemy India, which has been critical of any post-war government in Afghanistan that includes the Taliban.

Abdullah, however, who shared power in Afghanistans last government as chief executive and before that as foreign minister, said he was encouraged by the tone of conversations in Pakistan.

The conversations centered around peace and Abdullah said the improvements in relations and in perceptions of each other as good neighbors will come with time and actions, including messages from Pakistan to the Taliban to embrace the current negotiations underway in Doha.

He has asked Pakistan to send the right message to all sides but mainly to the Taliban that this is the right time to make genuine efforts for achieving peace, to be flexible be ready, be determined [and] know that there is no other way.  This will be the right thing at this stage.

By Kathy Gannon
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The UK is a major trade partner of Vietnam in Europe, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc told Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs and First Secretary of State Dominic Raab during their meeting in Hanoi on Wednesday.

The UK foreign minister made his official visit on the occasion of the two countries 10th anniversary of their strategic partnership, PM Phuc stated, adding that Vietnam always considers the kingdom a leading partner in Europe and the world.

PM Phuc praised the outcomes of the earlier talks between Raab and Vietnamese Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh, especially the issuance of the 'Joint Declaration on the Vietnam-UK Strategic Partnership: Forging Ahead for Another 10 years,' which specifies their vision and cooperation orientations in certain fields.

The UK is a big trade partner of Vietnam in Europe, the premier reiterated, suggesting that the two nations finalize, sign, and enforce a bilateral free trade agreement in an early manner to seize cooperation opportunities and support growth recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vietnam always creates favorable conditions for UK investors and enterprises to enter the country to do business and meet the former's development demand, he noted, adding that the Southeast Asian nation is willing to continue working with the UK to step up COVID-19 prevention and control, especially in medicine and vaccine development.

Replying to his host, Raab said his visit to Vietnam is part of the UK governments policy on expanding ties with countries in the Asia-Pacific region.

The UK treasures and wishes to further intensify cooperation with Vietnam, he said, adding that it also hopes to coordinate closely with the Southeast Asian country in promoting connections with the region and in settling urgent global issues.

Both sides have agreed on strengthening ties in economic matters, trade, investment, education-training, science-technology, clean energy, and sustainable development so that their strategic partnership will live up to its potentialities.

Raab congratulated Vietnam on successfully curbing the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that the UK highly values the Vietnamese stature and role in the region and the world.

The official hoped that both sides will work together to prepare for the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26), to be held in the UK in 2021.

The UK supports Vietnam and ASEANs stance on the need to maintain peace, stability and security, resolve disputes via peaceful measures, and comply with international law, especially the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), he added.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
Donald Glover is now a father three times over.

The Atlanta star revealed in a British GQ interview published Tuesday that he and his girlfriend Michelle White had welcomed their third child months ago amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

The 37-year-old actor and writer spilled the beans while chatting with I May Destroy You star and creator Michaela Coel, who graced the November issue's cover.

New baby: Donald Glover, 37, revealed that he welcomed his third child amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic while interview Michaela Coel for British GQ; shown in November 2019

'I had [a kid] during the coronavirus,' Glover admitted.

'It was nuts. I was in the hospital bed. My son had just been born, like, an hour before, and I was watching the George Floyd video.'

Though the Community star didn't specify when he son was born, Floyd was killed by a white police officer on May 25, so his son may have arrived in late May or June.

'It was such a weird moment. It was such an intense, weird moment, because Im watching that video and its, like, eight minutes long, so youre sitting there and I had just had this amazing, joyful, expanding moment, plus my dad had passed away recently, so [my son] was named after my father.'

Glover had also been named after his father, Donald McKinley Glover Sr., who died in 2018.

Strange pairing: Glover said he watched the video of George Floyd being killed by a white police officer shortly after his girlfriend Michelle White gave birth; shown in October 2019

Growing family: Glover shares his three kids with his partner Michelle. The two welcomed their first son Legend, three, in 2016, followed by Drake, two, in 2018; shown in May 2018

'I dont even know what, really, the word is to describe it,' the stand-up comedian continued. 'It was just expanding: the empathy and compassion and the terror and the joy of it.'

Glover shares his three children with his partner Michelle White.

The two welcomed their first son Legend, three, in 2016, followed by Drake, two, in 2018.

Glover revealed they were expecting their second son in 2017 at the Emmys during his acceptance speech for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series

The couple were seen together in November last year at the 9th Annual LACMA Art+Film Gala in Los Angeles, were Michelle was displaying a baby bump.

Rising star: Glover made the admission while having a discussion with Michaela Coel, the actor and writer responsible for the acclaimed shows Chewing Gum and I May Destroy You; still from I May Destroy You

Major role: Last year, Glover voiced Simba in the mostly computer-generated remake of The Lion King, which also starred Beyonce

Glover made the admission while having a discussion with Michaela Coel, the actor and writer responsible for the acclaimed shows Chewing Gum and I May Destroy You.

He complimented her for the latter series, which aired on HBO in June and July.

'I guess the biggest compliment I can give [the show] is this: it made me feel super inspired. And [before], I was not feeling very inspired. It really broke me out of feeling that everythings the same. Your show is such a good feeling, and flavor,' he said.

Last year, Glover voiced Simba in the mostly computer-generated remake of The Lion King, which also starred Beyonce.

Earlier that year, he starred in the musical Guava Island opposite Rihanna, which was directed by his regular Atlanta collaborator Hiro Murai.

This year, he released his fourth studio album 3.15.20, which followed the critically acclaimed single This Is America (2018) and his 2016 album "Awaken, My Love!"
CLEVELAND, Ohio  Shaker Heights police placed an officer on paid administrative leave after he flipped off a group of protesters marching before Clevelands presidential debate.

Shaker Heights Police Commander John Cole said the officer was placed on leave Wednesday afternoon. Cole refused to provide the officers name, and declined to say why.

Cole said an internal investigation is underway and that he will make public the investigations findings once the investigation is finished. Shaker Heights Mayor David Weiss did not respond to requests for comment, nor did a city spokeswoman.

Shaker Heights police said in a statement that the department unequivocally supports the right of Black Lives Matter and all demonstrators to peacefully protest and condemned any action by a police officer that disrespects citizens.

We are committed to confronting and rooting out unprofessional and inappropriate behavior within our department, and pledge to move as swiftly as possible in this case, the statement said. We recognize that behavior such as this damages relationships that we have worked hard to build.

Cole initially told cleveland.com Wednesday that investigators were still trying to identify the officer. Cleveland Police Chief Calvin Williams, at a news conference Wednesday afternoon, said that a supervisor identified the officer immediately after the incident and forced the officer to leave for the rest of the day.

Thats the way we expect our partners to handle things, Williams said.

The incident happened as some 500 protesters marched in the University Circle neighborhood. Black Lives Matter Cleveland and Black Spring CLE organized the event and march. The protests were entirely peaceful.

As a caravan of armed officers drove near the march on East Boulevard near Hazel Drive, an officer in riot gear driving a Shaker Heights police van extended his arm out of the window gave the middle finger to protesters as he drove past.

A cleveland.com reporter took a video of the incident. The officer drove the third of four police vehicles that went by the march.

A driver in a police caravan gave the finger to Black Lives Matter protesters in Cleveland's University Circle neighborhood ahead of the Sept. 29 presidential debate. (Robin Goist, cleveland.com)

Black Lives Matter Cleveland organizer Kareem Henton criticized the officers actions and said that such behavior is evidence that the officer cared little about protecting citizens.

That shows that he does not see those people as citizens that he is supposed to be out there to protect, Henton said. He drew his line in the sand.

Henton also said it came as little surprise that the officer works for Shaker Heights. He said its well-known that the department puts officers in patrol cars at the border of Cleveland and Warrensville Heights.

Its the police departments message: dont come here with that, Henton said. They try to portray it as some great city. A lot of residents there are great, but if the city administrators arent treating people equitably, they are complicit.

Henton said hed like to see the officer ordered to undergo additional training, particularly for de-escalation and cultural competency to better learn how to respect citizens.

Learning what the officer did, its not surprising, Henton said. Right now were in the age where they no longer have to hide the disdain they have for the community.

Read more cleveland.com:

Cop who flipped off peaceful protesters during Cleveland presidential debate identified as Shaker Heights officer

Watch police caravan driver outside presidential debate give Cleveland Black Lives Matter protesters the finger

Protests outside first presidential debate in Cleveland remain peaceful despite few tense moments
Case says Brandi had been a victim of child sex trafficking, but in those early days of living with them, there were also signs that she had endured other types of abuse. She would sneak food and save it, unsure that there would be a next meal. She tucked it away under cushions and other places where it would later be found rotting. Then came the first bulk trash day. Brandi went outside and dragged to the familys driveway furniture that she thought was still good enough to use.
Seattle: A leader of the Proud Boys, the far-right organisation emboldened by Donald Trump during the first US presidential debate, said he was encouraged by the President's comments.

Trump avoided condemning far-right and white supremacist groups when asked by moderator Chris Wallace, instead saying as part of his answer after rival Joe Biden mentioned the group: "Proud Boys, stand back and stand by".

Joe Biggs, a Florida-based organiser for the male-only group known for street violence, said in a phone interview that the group's mission was to combat left-wing insurrection in the increasingly volatile culture wars leading to the November election.

A protester carries a Proud Boys banner in front of the Oregon State Capitol in Salem. Credit:AP

Biggs, who helped organise a rally in Portland, Oregon, on Saturday, said that condemning the social justice protests erupting nightly in that city was key to his group's national strategy of thwarting Black Lives Matter and the leftist, anti-fascist movement known as antifa. Members of the Proud Boys, considered a hate group by organisations that track the far-right, have battled leftists there repeatedly in the last few years.
Editor: Mark Heroux, J.D.

A qui tam action is a relatively unknown tool in the toolbox of tax enforcement that is growing in importance in some states. Qui tam is short for the Latin phrase qui tam pro domino rege quam pro se ipso in hac parte sequitur, which means "who brings the action for the king as well as for himself" (Black's Law Dictionary (8th ed. West 2004)). A qui tam action is a type of whistleblower lawsuit brought by a private party, called a relator, on the government's behalf to prevent fraud and assist the government in recovering funds that have been "stolen" from the government. The relator, who files the suit under a statute known as a false claims act (FCA), usually receives a share of the monetary damages recovered by the government as a result of the qui tam action. A qui tam lawsuit can be costly for a taxpayer accused of wrongdoing since damages may include three times the amount of the actual losses to the state, plus attorneys' fees.

While the federal FCA expressly excludes claims under the Internal Revenue Code, many states have adopted their own FCAs. Some states specifically prohibit tax actions in general or exclude specific tax types.

New York

As of this writing, New York's FCA is the only state statute that broadly authorizes lawsuits against taxpayers for false tax claims (compare federal False Claims Act 3729(d) (31 U.S.C. 3729(d)) to N.Y. Fin. Law 189(4); see also N.Y. Attorney General, Press Release (12/21/18)). The New York FCA was amended in 2010 to include "claims . . . made under the tax law" (N.Y. L. 2010, ch. 379, 3). As a result, the New York FCA became a powerful tool, enhancing the state's tax collection capabilities.

To date, the largest recovery of taxes fraudulently withheld from New York state resulted from the attorney general's (AG's) civil enforcement action commenced in 2012 against Sprint Nextel Corp., which grew out of a 2011 qui tam suit by a private company; both lawsuits were filed under the New York FCA (People v. Sprint Nextel Corp., 26 N.Y.3d 98 (2015)) and alleged that Sprint had unlawfully avoided paying certain sales taxes. In affirming a lower court's decision denying Sprint's motion to dismiss the AG's complaint, the court concluded, among other things, that damages recoverable under the New York FCA are not barred by the U.S. Constitution's ex post facto clause (which addresses the unfairness of a new law's penalizing prior conduct after the fact). This decision permits the retroactive application of the New York FCA to allow for the collection of taxes due before the statute's 2010 amendment to include tax claims. In reaching its conclusion, the court stated the AG has a high burden in proving a civil action pursuant to the New York FCA, noting the statute does not apply to every tax case where taxes are not paid, and the taxpayer's taking a position that is contrary to an administrative position is not enough to prove fraud or recklessness, as required by the FCA.

This Court of Appeals decision ultimately led to a record-breaking $330 million settlement of the New York FCA lawsuit brought by the AG against Sprint. The whistleblower who filed the qui tam lawsuit received $62.7 million in accordance with the terms of the New York FCA, which provides whistleblowers who report fraud with a share of the state's recovery.

Fresh off its success in Sprint, the New York AG's office converted another qui tam lawsuit brought by a relator under the New York FCA into a civil enforcement action (see People v. B&H Foto & Electronics Corp.,No. 45210/2019 (N.Y. Sup. Ct. 11/14/19) (B&H Superseding Complaint 10-13)). The AG's suit was commenced after a lengthy investigation of the taxpayer. The AG alleged B&H failed to pay (or collect) sales tax, pursuant to N.Y. Tax Law Articles 28 and 29, on reimbursements B&H received from manufacturers for discounts that were passed on to B&H's customers as part of "instant rebate" sales promotion programs offered to vendors. Following the holding in Sprint regarding the retroactive application of the New York FCA, the suit alleges B&H failed to pay its required sales tax obligations totaling at least $7.3 million from 2006 (prior to New York's FCA amendment) through the third quarter of 2019.

In response, B&H filed a motion to dismiss the New York AG's lawsuit on the grounds the complaint failed to state a cause of action under the New York FCA. B&H disagreed with the New York AG's characterization of the "instant rebates" as receipts that are subject to sales tax. Instead B&H argued in pertinent part that the "instant rebates," which B&H referred to as "instant savings," were not taxable receipts but rather a cost of goods sold reduction to the wholesale price the retailer pays to the manufacturer.

B&H maintained it was correct on the law or, in the alternative, that its tax treatment was a reasonable interpretation of the law, citing various New York sales tax regulations and the published guidance of the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance. Therefore, B&H argued it could not have committed the fraud required to establish a claim under the New York FCA. As of this writing, a decision on B&H's motion to dismiss had not been issued by the court. Presumably, an appeal will be filed by whichever party is unsuccessful, thus resulting in a litigation process that could last several years.

Illinois

Unlike New York, Illinois limits the type of tax claims that can be brought by a relator pursuant to its FCA. While the state's FCA specifically excludes claims under the Illinois Income Tax Act (740 Ill. Comp. Stat. 175/3(c)), it does not prohibit claims under the Illinois Retailers' Occupation Tax. This exception has given rise to a large number of qui tam lawsuits by private parties on behalf of the state. No one has been more prolific in filing tax claims under the Illinois FCA than Chicago attorney Stephen B. Diamond, nicknamed the "king of qui tam." Recently, the Illinois Supreme Court dealt a significant blow to Diamond's practice of collecting both a portion of the damages and penalties as the relator bringing the qui tam suit, and attorneys' fees for the legal work performed by his firm on the qui tam suit (Illinois ex rel. Schad, Diamond & Shedden, P.C. v. My Pillow, Inc., 2018 IL 122487 (Ill. 9/20/18)).

The Illinois high court held that despite the significant revenue Diamond recovered on behalf of the state, he could not be paid twice for the same work  once as the relator and a second time as the lawyer for the relator. The court equated the situation to that of a pro selitigant.

California

The California FCA differs from the New York and Illinois FCAs, as it currently bars use of the FCA in all tax matters (Cal. Gov't Code 12651(f)). However, this absolute prohibition may soon disappear. Recently, a bill strongly supported by the California AG cleared the California Assembly that would authorize private lawsuits alleging false claims made under the California Revenue and Taxation Code (A.B. 2570 (2/20/20); Cal. Attorney General Press Release (2/20/20)). The bill would amend the California FCA to permit qui tam claims under the state's tax code if the damages pleaded exceed $200,000. A prior proposed amendment to include tax claims under the California FCA was met with resistance and failed to be enacted.

Coming changes

While the proposed change to the California FCA currently has a way to go before becoming law, Michigan and the District of Columbia are considering similar amendments to their statutes. This renewed focus may represent a change in the view of tax claims' inclusion in a state's FCA. This additional collection tool may become more attractive as states experience considerable budget gaps due to a significant reduction in revenue collections resulting from the economic downturn and exploding expenses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. If the focus by states on qui tam tax claims continues to increase, then the role of a tax practitioner in providing valuable advice to clients, like taking reasonable tax positions and using a state's voluntary disclosure program, will grow in importance.

EditorNotes

Mark Heroux, J.D., is a tax principal and leader of the Tax Advocacy and Controversy Services practice at Baker Tilly US, LLP in Chicago.

For additional information about these items, contact Mr. Heroux at 312-729-8005 or mark.heroux@bakertilly.com.

Unless otherwise noted, contributors are members of or associated with Baker Tilly US, LLP.
(Photo : Hyundai) (Photo : Hyundai) (Photo : Hyundai)

South Korean vehicle manufacturer, Hyundai, is making its most ambitious feat yet, with the conceptualization of a new car that can both drive on roads and highways, and at the same time, climb walls and walk terrain with the 'Ultimate Mobility Vehicle.' Hyundai created a new division called New Horizon Studios to supervise a lot of time for the actual working prototype, resembling either a Transformer or Star Wars' walker.

Hyundai boasts a new product that will soon produce a working prototype for the world to see. The very first 'walking car,' incorporating robotics and mechanical engineering, will soon be a product that will grace the streets and highways, even going as far as the mountain's peaks.

The vehicle manufacturer introduces New Horizon Studios, a subsidiary division of the Hyundai Motor Groups, to be primarily concerned with developing the first of its kind "UMV" or ultimate mobility vehicle. Hyundai's concept of the UMV called 'Elevate' will have four axles and wheels, with four folding legs to walk on surfaces.

The South Korean vehicle manufacturer announced 'Elevate' last Monday, September 28. Hyundai boasts that this vehicle will deliver 'unprecedented' mobility as it holds no limitations to the places it will reach. Unconventional and off-road terrain will soon be places to wander for most adventurers who will have the 'Elevate' at hand's reach.

New Horizon Studios will still be under Hyundai; however, it will solely focus on the new UMV. Currently, 'Elevate' is just a conceptualization and blueprint under the company. The new division of the South Korean giant will take over Hyundai's reins and develop the UMV with the company's top engineers and scientists.

ALSO READ: AI Robot "Curly" Beats the Korean Olympic Silver-Medalist Curling Team

New Horizon Studios' Team

Hyundai's Vice President, Dr. John Suh, will lead New Horizon Studios in the development of the UMV. Dr. Suh had a fruitful career with the company for 35 years. Dr. John Suh pioneered Hyundai Ventures and Hyundai CRADLE (Center for Robotic-Augmented Design in Living Experiences) right in California's Silicon Valley.

According to VP Dr. Suh, the company aims to make the first "transformer-class vehicle," with the UMV. It would be driveable on the streets and highways and promises the same outputs of a regular car; while on terrains, mountains, and 4x4 tracks, it would reveal its legs to be used for climbing.

Dr. Ernestine Fu also joins New Horizon Studios to work on the 'Elevate' as the Director of Product Management. Dr. Fu is formerly from Stanford University's Volkswagen Automotive Innovation Lab, known for working on the human operator and autonomous vehicle interactions.

Hyundai's Elevate: The Ultimate Mobility Vehicle for Road and Terrain

The world was taken by storm with Hyundai's unveiling of the 'Elevate' UMV during last year's CES 2019. The South Korean-giant announces that a new division within the company will develop and solely focus on 'Elevate,' with New Horizon Studios taking the lead.

Elevate nearly resembles Star Wars' All Terrain Armored Transport (AT-AT) Walker first seen on Episode V: Empire Strikes Back. The vehicle was used by the 'Empire' operated by Snow Troopers in the Battle of Hoth.

Hyundai's UMV promises the best of both worlds, being able to travel on roads and finally going up the hilly mountainside for an adventure. New Horizon Studios is now gearing up to develop and take over Elevate's production that would soon be commercially available.

ALSO READ: Ford Offers a Whopping $3,000 Price Slash for Mustang Mach-E's Premium AWD Variant; Enough To Go Toe-to-Toe against Tesla?





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Billions of noble metal catalysts are used worldwide for the production of chemicals, energy generation, or cleaning the air. However, the resources required for this purpose are expensive and their availability is limited. To optimize the use of resources, catalysts based on single metal atoms have been developed. A research team of Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) demonstrated that noble metal atoms may assemble to form clusters under certain conditions. These clusters are more reactive than the single atoms and, hence, exhaust gases can be much better removed. The results are reported in Nature Catalysis (DOI: 10.1038/s41929-020-00508-7).

Noble metal catalysts are used for a wide range of reactions. Among others, they are applied in nearly all combustion processes to reduce pollutant emissions. Often, they consist of very small particles of the active component, such as a noble metal, which are applied to a carrier material. These so-called nanoparticles are composed of several thousands of metal atoms. "But only atoms on the outside are active in the reaction, while most atoms remain unused," explains Professor Jan-Dierk Grunwaldt from KIT's Institute for Chemical Technology and Polymer Chemistry (ITCP). By changing operation conditions, the structure of such a catalyst and, hence, its activity may be changed. "At high temperatures in the exhaust gas system of a car, which are reached during a longer drive on a motorway, for instance, interaction between the noble metal and carrier may lead to the formation of single atoms, i.e. isolated, separate metal atoms on the carrier," Grunwaldt says. "Such single-atom catalysts might be expected to reach a very high utilization rate of the noble metal components, because all atoms can theoretically participate in the reaction." Contrary to this expectation, however, the team of Grunwaldt, in cooperation with professors Christof Woll from the Institute of Functional Interfaces of KIT and Felix Studt from KIT's Institute of Catalysis Research and Technology, has found that these atoms first have to form noble metal clusters under reaction conditions to become active.

The researchers specifically induced the formation of single atoms and examined their structure thoroughly during the reaction. With the help of highly specialized spectroscopy and theoretical calculations, which were used for the first time ever for this class of catalysts, the team succeeded in explaining why platinum atoms frequently have a low activity. "To convert pollutants, they usually have to react with oxygen in the catalyst. For this, both components must be available at the same time and place, which cannot be achieved for isolated platinum atoms, as the oxygen for the required reaction is much too strongly bound to the carrier component - in our case cerium oxide," says Florian Maurer from ITCP, one of the main authors of the study. "After breaking the platinum-cerium oxide bonds, platinum atoms can move across the carrier surface. In a next step, these platinum atoms form small platinum clusters, on which the reaction takes place much faster than on single atoms."

Clusters Have an Optimal Structure for High Activity

The team's studies prove that neither nanoparticles nor isolated atoms reach the highest activity. "The optimum lies in between. It is reached by small noble metal clusters," Grunwaldt says. "Stabilizing these noble metal clusters might be the key to substantially reduce the consumption of noble metals when producing catalysts. For years, increasingly fine distribution of the noble metal component has been one of the main strategies in designing new catalysts. Our experiments have now revealed the limits in the atomic range." The results of the study will now be used for knowledge-based design and development of catalysts of enhanced stability and long-term activity. This will be a major focus of the work of the Karlsruhe Exhaust Gas Center of KIT, whose Scientific Director, Dr. Maria Casapu, is co-author of the study.

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Original publication:

Florian Maurer, Jelena Jelic, Junjun Wang, Andreas Ganzler, Paolo Dolcet, Christof Woll, Yuemin Wang, Felix Studt, Maria Casapu, Jan-Dierk Grunwaldt: Tracking the formation, fate and consequence for catalytic activity of Pt single sites on CeO2, Nature Catalysis, 2020, DOI: 10.1038/s41929-020-00508-7).

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41929-020-00508-7

Contact for this press release:

Johannes Wagner, Press Officer, Tel.: 0721 608-41175, johannes wagner?kit edu

Being "The Research University in the Helmholtz Association", KIT creates and imparts knowledge for the society and the environment. It is the objective to make significant contributions to the global challenges in the fields of energy, mobility, and information. For this, about 9,300 employees cooperate in a broad range of disciplines in natural sciences, engineering sciences, economics, and the humanities and social sciences. KIT prepares its 24,400 students for responsible tasks in society, industry, and science by offering research-based study programs. Innovation efforts at KIT build a bridge between important scientific findings and their application for the benefit of society, economic prosperity, and the preservation of our natural basis of life. KIT is one of the German universities of excellence.
Memphis, Tenn. (September 30, 2020) - Researchers at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center working with colleagues at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston have found that some antibodies to SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, are more protective than others, when it comes to reinfection.

This information, discovered from the joint study and published online in the Journal of Clinical Investigation's JCI Insight, has implications for the overall understanding of the virus and whether infection actually does trigger immunity, according to Michael Whitt, PhD, associate dean of the Office of Medical Education in the UTHSC College of Medicine, chair of the Department of Medical Education, and a professor and former chair of the Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Biochemistry. Dr. Whitt is one of the principal investigators on the antibody study, which is ongoing at UTHSC.

Dr. Whitt and his laboratory team, which includes three fourth-year medical students and two Master of Medical Laboratory Science students, used an assay or test procedure developed in his lab roughly 25 years ago to study the infection mechanism of Ebolavirus. They applied that assay to study infection of and immunity generated against SARS-CoV-2. Dr. Whitt was contacted by researchers at MD Anderson to use his assay to test for the presence of neutralizing antibodies in samples from 134 hospitalized COVID patients and 464 healthy individuals obtained between June 2017 and June 2020.

"We ended up running samples for them (MD Anderson), and those data are presented in the paper," Dr. Whitt said. "Companies have developed assays to show whether people have SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, but these assays only provide a yes or no answer. So why is our work important? We can determine the amount of neutralizing antibody present in the blood, and neutralizing antibodies are the ones that can prevent the individual from becoming infected. If you have an antibody to an internal component of the virus, then that means you have been infected, but those antibodies won't prevent infection.

"Neutralizing antibodies are directed to the spike (S) protein, which is responsible for the binding of the virus to receptors on a host cell and for entry of the virus into the cell," Dr. Whitt explained. "However, not all antibodies to the S protein have neutralizing activity, so it is only a subset of antibodies to the S protein that can prevent infection. One of the questions we wanted to address is, do all people who have had the disease, COVID-19, generate neutralizing antibodies? That answer is clearly, no. The other question is, for those who do produce neutralizing antibodies, how much do they make?"

Further research will help answer questions about immunity. This is vital to plans for reopening the community.

"What we don't know is how much neutralizing antibody is needed to prevent infection or reinfection," Dr. Whitt said. "Just because you have detectable antibodies doesn't mean that you're protected from infection."

As a medical educator, Dr. Whitt said he is proud that the research in his lab has included students. "I think that speaks to the academic and training opportunities here at UTHSC," he said.

Along with Dr. Whitt, researchers in the Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Biochemistry at UTHSC are working on ways to test the general population in Memphis for the SARS-CoV-2 antibody. Professor Maria Gomes-Solecki, DVM, and her team have developed and are vetting a prototype ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), a blood test that could be used to mass-test antibodies in the community that would signal individual exposure.

Colleen Jonsson, PhD, professor and the Van Vleet Chair of Excellence in Virology and director of the Regional Biocontainment Laboratory at UTHSC, is leading the efforts with live SARS-CoV-2 to identify neutralizing antibodies and therapeutics to treat COVID-19. Dr. Jonsson is the lead investigator on a protocol to perform testing of the general population in Memphis for the SARS-CoV-2 antibodies.

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As Tennessee's only public, statewide, academic health system, the mission of the University of Tennessee Health Science Center is to bring the benefits of the health sciences to the achievement and maintenance of human health through education, research, clinical care, and public service, with a focus on the citizens of Tennessee and the region. The main campus in Memphis includes six colleges: Dentistry, Graduate Health Sciences, Health Professions, Medicine, Nursing and Pharmacy. UTHSC also educates and trains medicine, pharmacy, and/or health professions students, as well as medical residents and fellows, at major sites in Knoxville, Chattanooga and Nashville. For more information, visit http://www.uthsc.edu. Find us on Facebook: facebook.com/uthsc, on Twitter: twitter.com/uthsc and on Instagram: instagram.com/uthsc.
McEnany Says Trump Denounces White Supremacy, Hate Groups

President Donald Trump has repeatedly denounced white supremacists and hate groups, including during Tuesday nights debate and during a gaggle the next day, White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said on Oct. 1.

McEnany was pressed by two reporters during a White House briefing on whether Trump would definitively denounce white supremacy and groups that espouse it, to which she said he has.

This has been answered, yesterday by the president himself, the day before by the president himself, on the debate stage, the president was asked this, he said, sure, three times. Yesterday he was point-blank asked, do you denounce white supremacy and he said Ive always denounced any form of that, McEnany told Fox News John Roberts.

I can go back and read for you, in August 2019, in one voice our nation must condemn racism, bigotry, and white supremacy. In August of 2017, racism is evil and those who cause violence in its name are criminals and thugs, including the KKK, neo-Nazis, white supremacists and other hate groups. I have an entire list of these quotes that I can go through with you.

Roberts then asked for a new quote about the president denouncing white supremacy.

I just did. The president has denounced this, she said.

Following more back-and-forth between McEnany and Roberts, the briefing moved to other topics, before CNNs Kaitlin Collins brought it back up, wondering why the rightwing Proud Boys were celebrating what the president said on the debate stage.

I dont speak for that group so Im not sure why youre asking me why theyre saying a certain thing, McEnany said, soon adding that the president did denounce the Proud Boys specifically.

Trump on the debate stage told the Proud Boys, a mixed race group that some reporters claim hold white supremacist views, to stand back and stand by.

Asked what he meant on Wednesday, Trump told reporters, I dont know who the Proud Boys are. I mean, youll have to give me a definition, because I really dont know who they are. I can only say they have to stand down, let law enforcement do their work.

President Donald Trump speaks to the media as he walks to Marine One on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, on Sept. 30, 2020. (Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images)

Asked if he denounces white supremacists, Trump added, Ive always denounced any formany form of any of that, you have to denounce.

The president specifically, verbatim, was asked yesterday, white supremacy, do you denounce them? To which he responded, I have always denounced any form of that. Those are the facts, McEnany told Collins.

The Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio, a racial minority, told a local broadcaster on Wednesday: I denounce white supremacy. I denounce anti-Semitism. I denounce racism. I denounce fascism. I denounce communism and any other -ism that is prejudice towards people because of their race, religion, culture, tone of skin.

The drama in the White House briefing room continued later in the day, with people on Twitter sending Roberts critical messages and the reporter going on his network to complain.

Roberts wondered why Trump didnt say, I dont know who they are. Can you give me more information about them, and then make a decision about it? So this all remains puzzling, he said.

For all of you on Twitter who are hammering me for asking that question, I dont care, he added, clearly exasperated. Because its a question that needs to be asked, and clearly the presidents Republican colleagues a mile away from here are looking for an answer for it too. So stop deflecting. Stop blaming the media. Im tired of it.

McEnany tagged Roberts on Twitter, referring him to a post by his wife, Kyra Phillips, who is also a White House reporter.

Phillips told her followers on Wednesday: Just now: @realDonaldTrump tells me he DENOUNCES white supremacists.
3 1 of 3 Apu Gomez / AFP via Getty Images Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Brian van der Brug/Los Angeles Times via Getty Imag Show More Show Less 3 of 3





Amidst Californias wildfire season, we all could use some beauty in our lives.

National Geographic Adventure magazine posted a video taken by photographer Greg Harlow in 2017 on its Twitter account last week, showing the first rays of light and the spray from Yosemite Falls coalescing into a radiant rainbow mist.
Legal Battle Continues Over Straight-Ticket Voting With less than two weeks to go before early voting in November's election begins, the legal battle over straight-ticket voting in Texas is continuing.



Until late Friday, September 25, this was to be the first general election in Texas operating under the new law that eliminated straight-ticket voting, but a U.S. district judge reinstated the voting practice last week.



By Monday, September 28, a federal appeals court had put a temporary hold on that ruling pending a review of the arguments and a final ruling.



Texas is one of the few states that offers a straight-ticket option, which allows voters to check one box to cast a ballot for every candidate from a single party.



House Bill 25, passed by the Texas Legislature in 2017, ended the 100-year-old practice of straight-ticket voting in Texas, but the change was not set to go into effect until this year.



In last Friday's decision, U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo cited the COVID-19 pandemic, saying that the elimination of straight-ticket voting could create mass lines at the polls and increase the amount of time voters are exposed to COVID-19 while voting.



Proponents of HB 25 believe that eliminating straight-ticket voting will lead to more informed voters, but opponents said that it would cause long lines and disproportionately impact those in urban counties with extremely long ballots.



These factors would also disproportionately impact minority voters and voters who support the Democratic Party, according to the ruling.



The Texas Democratic Party and other Democratic groups sued the state in March to overturn the law, but the judge dismissed the case. Another suit was then filed by the Texas Alliance for Retired Americans and other plaintiffs.



Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton said that his office would immediately appeal the ruling. I am disappointed that the court departed from its prior reasoning and imposed straight-ticket voting only weeks before a general election," Paxton said.



In another legal battle related to the November election, Texas Governor Greg Abbott is being sued by members of his own party over his decision to add six days to the early voting period.



Early voting in Texas was originally scheduled to begin October 19, but Abbott announced in July that it would start on October 13 to allow voters more time to cast ballots in an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19.



The lawsuit, brought by Texas Republican Party Chair Allen West, Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller and other Republicans, claims that the move violates election law.


The EC has reportedly rejected UK requests for vehicles produced in Britain using imported parts to avoid higher export tariffs

The European Union has rejected a request from the UK to consider car parts from Japan and Turkey as British when they are used in the production of vehicles in the country, according to reports today.

The decision would mean that some car makers in Britain would attract higher tariffs with or without a trade deal.

According to a letter to the car industry from Britain's chief Brexit negotiator Lord Frost, seen by the BBC, the EC rejected the key request.

In a report issued on Wednesday, the BBC said it had also obtained a separate draft legal text in which the UK requested the manufacturing of goods such as electric cars and batteries - as well as electric bicycles - to be counted as British, even if the majority of components are imported.

Both documents reportedly refer to the need for UK manufacturers, even if a Brexit deal is reached, to ensure that goods exported from the UK are British-made and contain a certain amount of British parts, believed to be around 55 per cent.

An anticipated deal had been expected to allow any components sourced from EU countries to count as British, an idea known as 'cumulation'.

However the letter from Lord Frost reportedly states the EU has denied the request to extend cumulation to include other partners of the UK and EU, including Turkey and Japan.

This is likely to be a blow to a number of UK car makers, especially Japanese firms with large vehicle plants across the country using parts shipped into the country.

That includes Nissan, which has the largest single vehicle production plant in the UK located in Sunderland where the Qashqai, Juke and Leaf are built, as well as Toyota's Burnaston factory producing the Corolla family car and Honda in Swindon - though the latter is due to close in 2021.

According to the BBC, the letter said: 'The commission has made clear that it will not agree third-country cumulation in any circumstances, which we regret, but obviously cannot insist upon.

'I am sorry to say that so far they (EU negotiators) have neither been willing to discuss these nor share any proposed text with us.'

For cars produced in Britain to avoid higher tariffs, a minimum of 55% of their parts need to be British

David Leggett, automotive analyst at GlobalData, said the move would be a 'serious blow for manufacturers in Britain such as Nissan and Toyota who import significant volumes of parts from so-called 'third countries'.'

He added: 'Even in the event of a UK-EU free trade deal being struck, the problem lies in the determination of what is or is not eligible for free circulation between the UK and EU, qualifying as British (or local) content.

'Under the usual principles of bilateral free trade deals, mutual recognition and rules of origin mean that cars made in Britain need to meet around 55 per cent 'British' content to count as British and avoid tariffs, but crucially, EU-sourced parts would be included in that 'local content' calculation.

'The shipments to the EU of finished new cars meeting that 55 per cent threshold would therefore not attract tariffs under a free trade agreement (FTA).

'Many cars made in the UK and exported to the EU should be able to meet that threshold - but some may not, because of the application of rules of origin by the EU and this is where Nissan and Toyota could be especially vulnerable.'

He explained: 'Nissan could be exposed by the value of imports of parts from Japan for its Sunderland-made electric Leaf and a consequential lower level of local content.

'Similarly, Toyota's UK plant works closely with Turkish suppliers.

'These two manufacturers could find some of their exports fall below the 55 per cent local content threshold and therefore become liable to EU tariffs, even if a UK-EU trade deal is struck.

'Exports to Europe are vital for these two plants and attracting new tariffs of 10 per cent on shipments to the EU would seriously hamper their competitive position.'

An anticipated deal had been expected to allow any components sourced from EU countries to count as British, an idea known as 'cumulation'

The report comes just a day after the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders launched a new 'Safe Harbour Scheme', designed to help save jobs across the UK automotive industry, including its critical supply chain.

The scheme has been created to support companies struggling to ramp up production while battling the effects of the coronavirus crisis and ongoing market uncertainty.

Supported by the Automotive Council and government, it is said to provide a mechanism for automotive businesses to engage with their customers, lenders, creditors and other stakeholders to 'find ways to minimise the risk of insolvencies'.

The pandemic has so far resulted in at least 9,000 job losses across the sector as a whole, with an additional 5,000 in the UK supply chain, according to the trade body.

And it warned that this is 'just the tip of the iceberg' as ongoing restrictions for manufacturing and the threat of further lockdowns remain.

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said on Tuesday: 'With the UK automotive sector badly hit by the coronavirus crisis, thousands of jobs already lost and barely weeks left until a fundamental change of trading conditions with our largest market, the EU, the pressures on automotive businesses are immense.

'Inevitably, these pressures are going to take their toll on businesses, so the Safe Harbour Scheme has been created to help any suppliers in trouble.

'It should provide valuable breathing space as the sector restarts and business and consumer confidence recovers.

'Ultimately, however, the industry must maintain its competitiveness to grow and for that we still look to the Government to deliver an ambitious trade deal with the EU.'
The Electoral Commission (EC) will from 7am to 6pm today, Thursday, October 1 re-open the voters register at its District Offices, for persons who could not participate in the mass registration exercise organized earlier this year.

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) earlier sought an interim injunction on the exercise but the application was dismissed by the High Court.

Although the NDC says it has refiled an interlocutory injunction in line with direction from the High Court, the EC has indicated that the exercise will take place without any hindrance.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, September 30, 2020, the EC said eligible persons who register in this exercise will be able to vote in the December polls.

As previously advertised, the Electoral Commission will undertake a one-day voters' registration exercise on Thursday, the 1st of October 2020 in all its district offices across the countryEligible citizens who take advantage of this exercise will be able to vote in the December 2020 general elections, the statement from the EC noted.

NDC challenge

The NDC in explaining why it filed processes in court to stop the exercise said the Commission has not published in the gazette the 21 days' notice of the planned exercise in accordance with the law governing elections in Ghana.

NDC is among other things seeking from the court A declaration that the Electoral Commission has acted ultra vires in its attempt to reopen and/or conduct registration of voters scheduled for Thursday 1st October 2020 when the Electoral Commission has not caused to be published in the Gazette, twenty-one (21) days' notice of this voters registration to the political parties and the general public, the NDC averred in its statement of claim.

60-day period requirement

The EC decided to open the register for the second time following several requests from persons who were unable to register for their voters' ID cards due to COVID-19 restrictions.

But some political parties including the NDC expressed concerns over the exercise following a 60-day period limitation specified in the Public Elections Regulations, 2016.

The regulation, among others, states that the EC shall include in the register of voters, the name of a person who qualifies for registration as a voter and is registered but shall not include in the register of voters the name of a person who qualifies to register as a voter for an election but who registers less than sixty days to that election.

This implies that, if the EC is unable to meet the 60 days to the polls deadline, even if it registers eligible voters, such persons will not be able to exercise their franchise on December 7.

---citinewsroom
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Linkedin A. Muh. Ibnu Aqil (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Thu, October 1, 2020 15:19 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4877880 1 National palm-oil,moratorium,concession,plantations,environment,politics,governance Free

It has been over two years since the government set a moratorium on new palm oil development, but environmentalists say the move has failed to bring about much-needed change in the governance of the lucrative export commodity.

A coalition of civil society groups said recently that the plantation ban had not resulted in significant improvements in the sustainability of the palm oil business or its impact on the environment.

In September 2018, President Joko Jokowi Widodo issued an executive order to suspend the granting of new licenses for oil palm concessions and ordered a review of existing plantations.

If the ban and the reviews were carried out in accordance with Presidential Instruction (Inpres) No. 8/2018, the process was expected to help clear up uncertainty about the rights of smallholders and boost productivity on existing plantations.

But more than two years later, the order has yet to be properly implemented, despite signs that the government wants the palm oil industry to be more sustainable, said Teguh Surya, chairman of the Madani Foundation, an environmental NGO.

Based on an analysis by Madani, only one provincial and three regency administrations have issued follow-up regulations; five provinces and five regencies have shown clear commitments to implementing the ban; and another 19 provinces and 239 regencies have yet to take any action.

This has contributed to slow progress in implementing the Inpres and other relevant provisions, including Presidential Regulation (Perpres) No. 44/2020 on the Indonesian Sustainable Palm Oil certification.

These two regulations are closely related to one another. The latter could not be implemented correctly because of the lacking implementation of the former. Meanwhile, being sustainable is vital for palm oil to be able to compete in the global market, Teguh told The Jakarta Post this week.

With the expansion of plantations starting in the 1990s, palm oil has been blamed for deforestation and loss of biodiversity. The crop is Indonesias second-biggest export and the most efficiently produced vegetable oil.

As the worlds top palm oil producer, Indonesia has regularly touted the commodity as a solution to the countrys gaping trade deficit, as well as a livelihood for millions of smallholders.

Read also: Indonesia's palm oil sector relies on domestic demand as exports drop

According to official data, there were 16.38 million hectares of palm oil concessions in the country as of 2019.

However, Teguh said the actual number might be higher and that the state had only managed to provide data from the Agriculture Ministry in the two years since the moratorium.

Data compiled by Madani from various sources shows that there could be up to 31.1 million ha of palm oil concessions and that 8.4 million hectares are unaccounted for by valid permits.

Forest Watch Indonesia campaign lead Agung Ady Setyawan also criticized the lack of comparative and actual data on oil palm concessions.

The state only wants to publish the total area of oil palm concessions without indicating other attributes [such as ownership and status]. This has made it difficult for us to supervise, Agung told the Post earlier this week.

Without the proper attribution and mapping of plantations, it is difficult for observers to determine the locations of plantations and identify possible overlap.

The lack of transparency in oil palm plantation data, Agung said, made it hard for environmentalists to determine whether the moratorium had contributed to deforestation amid recent findings that deforestation rates had slowed.

The government is finalizing its highly anticipated One Map Policy, an integrated data map that aims to eliminate overlapping data and unify disparate mapping methods from various institutions. The project is expected to be complete by December 2020.

Read also: Concerns of transparency, inclusivity raised as One Map nears completion

Meanwhile, deliberations between the government and the House of Representatives over the omnibus bill on job creation may complicate the goal of palm oil sustainability, given proposals in the bill that would loosen environmental protections.

Indonesian Center for Environmental Law researcher Adrianus Eryan said the government should instead try to improve business practices in the palm oil industry by making sense of the available data, evaluating all existing permits and accurately measuring palm oil productivity.

The good initiative [of the moratorium] has barely run its course and the government is already trying to pass an omnibus bill that doesnt fix the core problem [with palm oil], Adrianus said.

Palm oil productivity has not improved by much despite an ambitious target set by palm oil companies in 2011 to produce 9 tons per hectare per year by 2020. According to Statistics Indonesia (BPS), productivity was only 3.2 tons per hectare per year in 2019.
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Linkedin Ghina Ghaliya (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Thu, October 1, 2020 16:43 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c487e4cf 1 National Fachrul-Razi,COVID-19,coronavirus,recovery Free

Religious Affairs Minister Fachrul Razi has recovered from COVID-19, an expert staff member to the minister confirmed on Thursday.

Fachrul has been discharged from Bunda Hospital in Menteng, Central Jakarta and has returned to his home after being treated since Sept. 20.

"Alhamdulillah [thank God], the minister was declared to have recovered on the afternoon of Sept. 30 and returned home. He said he was happy and grateful for his recovery, Kevin Haikal said in a press statement on Thursday.

Despite his recovery, Fachrul still has to rest at home for the next few days. He has delegated his tasks to deputy minister Zainut Tauhid and other officials while he is recuperating in isolation.

Kevin added that Fachrul advised citizens to comply with health protocols, with the minister saying that being a COVID-19 patient had taught him not to underestimate his health.

"Please adhere to the health protocols and wish the minister a speedy recovery, he said.

Fachrul is the third minister to test positive for COVID-19 and recover.

In March, Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi was treated at Gatot Subroto Central Regional Hospital in Jakarta for COVID-19. Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Minister Edhy Prabowo was also admitted to the ICU at the same hospital after contracting the virus earlier this month.
French investigators have called for a review of the design and maintenance of titanium alloy engine parts to ensure they guard against the risks of metal fatigue following an engine blowout on an Airbus A380 exactly three years ago.

Frances BEA agency made the recommendation in a final report into the accident in which an Air France jet carrying more than 500 passengers lost the front section of one of its four engines while flying over Greenland, before landing safely in Canada.

The move follows a perilous investigation involving a 21-month international aerial and ground search across the ice sheet to find a crucial titanium alloy fragment, buried 3 meters below the surface and just a meter away from a hidden crevasse.

The probe focused on the fan hub at the center of a 3-meter-wide fan at the front of the engine made by Engine Alliance, co-owned by General Electric and Pratt & Whitney.

The BEA said a recovered fragment had shown tiny fatigue cracks in a titanium alloy called Ti-6-4 and urged regulators  the Federal Aviation Administration and European Union Aviation Safety Agency  to carry out a review of design, manufacturing, maintenance and certification processes.

Neither the manufacturer nor the certification authorities had anticipated this phenomenon in this alloy during the design of the engine, the BEA said.

Such recommendations by leading investigators do not have to be followed automatically but typically carry some weight.

Engine Alliance said it had already taken steps to address the findings. Airbus said no flaws had been found during inspections of other engines from the same supplier, one of two A380 engine manufacturers alongside Rolls-Royce.

A spokeswoman for Rolls said it was confident the issues associated with the Engine Alliance part cannot be attributed to any Rolls-Royce engine fan discs currently in service.

Titanium alloy is used widely in aerospace, the metals biggest customer due to its strength compared to the weight of each part, and its ability to handle high temperatures.

The industry has faced concerns in the past about titanium alloy manufacturing processes following an engine failure.

In 1989, a severe engine blowout on a United Airlines DC-10 led to the death of 111 people during an attempted landing at Sioux City, Iowa.

That crash sped improvements in manufacturing methods for titanium alloy. But some engine experts have rejected any suggestion that there is an industry-wide manufacturing issue.

During the operation in Greenland to find the missing A380 engine fragment, French, Danish and U.S. specialists battled problems from faulty generators to storms, buried tents and concerns about polar bears, according to an expedition report.

At one point, the team resorted to low-tech methods including bamboo sticks and concentrated juice to mark the snow after their high-precision positioning system failed, but the investigation also spurred development of new sensor equipment.

(Reporting by Tim Hepher and Laurence Frost; editing by Pravin Char)

Photograph: Air France Airbus A380 F-HPJI passenger plane arrives at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport on April 24, 2015.

Topics Aviation Manufacturing Aerospace France
Nobel prizes in year marked by pandemic Thunberg's name has come up in connection with the peace prize, possibility, most likely with other activists

Press freedom groups and climate activist Greta Thunberg are making Nobel Peace Prize buzz ahead of next week's award announcements, in a pandemic year that has highlighted the importance of science and research.

The Nobel prizes for literature and peace, to be announced on October 8 and 9 respectively, tend to garner the most public interest, given occasionally to well-known people or organisations.

But the prizes for medicine, physics, chemistry and economics are usually awarded to research teams toiling for decades far from the limelight, perhaps stars in their fields but rarely known to the public.

This year, the new coronavirus has brought science centre-stage.

"The pandemic is a big crisis for mankind, but it illustrates how important science is," Nobel Foundation head Lars Heikensten said.

No prizes are expected to be awarded this year for work directly linked to the virus, as Nobel prizewinning research usually takes many years to be verified.

The virus could however influence the various committees that select the laureates.

"The pandemic has changed us as thinking beings for the foreseeable future," Bjorn Wiman, culture editor at Sweden's biggest daily Dagens Nyheter, told AFP.

For the Swedish Academy, which awards the Nobel Literature Prize, "it's clear the pandemic will have some kind of effect on the reflections of the (Academy's) Nobel committee members. They're just people too".

"Other things perhaps seem more important now than six months ago," Wiman said.

- 'No real peace strides' -

Nobel Peace Prize experts meanwhile noted the lack of a clear frontrunner this year.

"There aren't any real major strides forward for peace or peace agreements," Dan Smith, head of the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), told AFP.

Nobel historian Asle Sveen said Reporters Without Borders (RSF) was his favourite for the prize, a choice echoed by the head of the Peace Research Institute of Oslo (PRIO), Henrik Urdal, who also mentioned the Committee to Protect Journalists.

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"During conflicts, it's extremely important that journalists contribute to provide information about what's happening, both in order to hold the conflict parties accountable for their actions as well as providing information to the outside world," Urdal told AFP.

Smith and Sveen also both mentioned Greta Thunberg -- who has repeatedly urged world leaders to "listen to the science" on climate change -- as a possible winner, most likely together with other activists.

"I think the committee may go outside of a narrow peace definition," Smith said.

Other experts have meanwhile suggested the World Health Organisation could take home the prize.

Last year, it went to Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for ending a 20-year postwar stalemate with Eritrea.

- Literary brouhahas -

A flurry of names have meanwhile been mentioned for the literature prize, awarded by the Swedish Academy that has been mired in controversy for several years.

Its 2016 Nobel pick of US rock legend Bob Dylan was a contentious choice, followed the next year by the emergence of a rape scandal close to its members that tore the Academy apart, forcing it to postpone the prize for 2018 -- a first in 70 years.

The Academy was revamped, and just when everyone thought it would steer clear of controversy, it gave the 2019 prize to Austrian novelist Peter Handke, known for his pro-Serb support in the Balkan wars.

"If the Academy knows what's good for them, they'll choose Jamaica Kincaid," Bjorn Wiman, cultural editor at Sweden's biggest daily Dagens Nyheter, told AFP.

The Caribbean-American author is known for exploring colonialism, racism and gender.

"Kincaid and her stance on various moral and political issues are absolutely worth listening to today," he said.

However, the Academy could also "dust off some old candidate" such as Peter Nadas of Hungary, Albania's Ismael Kadare or Romania's Mircea Cartarescu, he said.

Madelaine Levy, literature critic at daily Svenska Dagbladet, meanwhile said she was hoping for American author Joan Didion.

Canadian poet Anne Carson was also seen as a possible winner, alongside "usual suspects" Ngugi wa Thiong'o of Kenya, French novelist Michel Houellebecq, American authors Joyce Carol Oates and Marilynn Robinson, Israel's David Grossman and Canada's Margaret Atwood.

British novelist Hilary Mantel -- not usually mentioned in Nobel speculation -- has also popped up.

This year, the traditional prize ceremony in December in Stockholm has been cancelled due to the pandemic, replaced with a televised broadcast showing laureates receiving their awards in their home countries.

The Peace Prize ceremony, held separately in Oslo, will however go ahead albeit in a scaled-back version.

The medicine prize kicks off the announcements on Monday, followed by physics on Tuesday, chemistry on Wednesday, literature on Thursday and peace on Friday. The economics prize wraps things up on Monday, October 12.

bur-po/jj/rbu
A high-profile Hawaii-based defense contractor has been arrested on charges of swindling $12.8 million in funds intended to prop up small businesses during COVID-19.

Martin Kao, 47, a generous political donor, was arrested on Wednesday and charged with bank fraud and money laundering, accused of siphoning off $2 million of the fraudulent loan into his own personal bank account.

The Department of Justice accused Kao of falsifying loan applications so that he could receive more money than he was entitled to under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which was created by Congress as part of the $2 trillion CARES Act meant to stave off financial ruin for individuals and small businesses during the pandemic.

Kao submitted at least two fraudulent PPP loan applications, prosecutors allege.

They claim he falsely inflated the number of employees on the loan application, and falsely certified that the applicant and its affiliates would not receive, and had not received, another PPP loan.

He was charged with two counts of bank fraud and five counts of money laundering.

Kao will make his initial appearance in court in Honolulu on Thursday, before U.S. District Court Judge Kenneth J. Mansfield.

Martin Kao, CEO of Navatek - now Martin Defense Group - was arrested on Wednesday

Kao (right) is the CEO of Navatek, which specializes in contracts for the Department of Defense and Nasa, among others

Kao in 2017 was appointed CEO of Navatek, a defense company with contracts for the Defense Department and Nasa.

Five days before his arrest Kao announced that the company was being renamed Martin Defense Group, after him.

'While I respect and value Navatek's history, our re-branding as Martin Defense Group allows us to turn toward the future, and the opportunities we see to make a positive difference,' said Kao in the September 25 press release.

'Most importantly, it better reflects the Company's mission to support our customers and ultimately the warfighters in harm's way.'

He said the company was focused on innovation and using 'emerging technologies' to 'transition them to game changing capabilities that outpace our adversaries and make our nation safer.'

Navatek has had a bumper year despite the pandemic: since April the company has increased its employee total by over 60 per cent and expanded its presence with offices in five new states  Michigan, South Carolina, Maine, Oklahoma, and Kansas.

Over the summer, the company was awarded several new contracts in partnership with major research universities.

In July, an $8 million Navy contract for research into 3D manufacturing was awarded with the University of Maine, and a $3.8 million contract for cyber physical systems research with the University of Rhode Island.

Susan Collins (center), senator for Maine, celebrated the Navatek contract on August 7 with Kao (second left)

In August, a further $14 million in contracts were secured with the Universities of South Carolina and Michigan.

The $5m Maine contract was celebrated in the presence of Susan Collins, the Republican senator who is up for re-election in November, in a vital, hard-fought race.

'Maine is home to the best shipbuilders in the world, and our state has long had an integral role in our national security,' she said on August 7.

'As a senior member of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, I strongly advocated for the funding that made this research possible and am so proud of the work Navatek and other Maine industries do to support our Navy and our nation's defense.'

Campaign finance reports obtained by the Honolulu Civil Beat showed that Kao had recently become a major donor to Collins campaign, maxing out his contributions to the Republican senator as she seeks re-election.

The paper also claimed that Kao was perhaps connected to a mysterious $150,000 campaign donation made to a super PAC backing Collins.

The donation was made in the name of the Society of Young Women Scientist and Engineers LLC, which was created in Hawaii on November 26.

The only name associated with the organization is Jennifer Lam, which Hawaii business records lists as the companys registered agent and manager.

Kaos wifes name is Tiffany Jennifer Lam, the paper said.

She has donated the maximum amount  $5,600  to Collins, FEC records show.

Federal Election Commission (FEC) records show Kao also donated $5,600 to Collins between 2018 and 2019, which is the maximum allowable under federal rules.

Additionally, a number of Navatek employees and their relatives also donated the maximum allowed to Collins campaign, adding tens of thousands of dollars to her bid to stay in office.

Many of the donations came on the same day, August 18, the paper reported.

The donations were given less than two weeks after Collins visited Navateks offices in Portland to celebrate its contract.

Three people with variants of the name Christopher Lam donated to Collins' campaign on that day, as did three people connected to Marty and Mickey Kao Foundation - Kao's educational charity.

The Campaign Legal Center in Washington DC filed a complaint with the Federal Election Commission against the company, having noticed the large donation from Hawaii - a state which does not traditionally pay much attention to the Maine election.

Hawaii donors gave only $10,800 over the last 14 years, when you remove donations from Kao, his family and Navatek employees.

The Campaign Legal Center believe that the Society was set up as 'a dark money front,' the local paper reported, 'to mask the true identity of the donor to the pro-Collins super PAC.'

Kao has not commented on the Campaign Legal Center's complaint.

Martin Defense Group has not responded to DailyMail.com's request for comment.
Opinion Article

1 October 2020

The term artificial intelligence (AI) was officially coined by John McCarthy in 1956. AI is now considered the most important thing mankind is currently working on. Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google, believes that this technology is even more significant than fire and electricity.

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So what is AI? AI is about building machines that can perform activities that currently can only be performed by brains - human or animal. At its very heart, it is the ability for machines to interpret and learn from data to make predictions. And they do so without being explicitly programmed for that.

There are various terms associated with AI, and within the AI community there is huge disagreement on what AI actually means and what its goals are. The past decades have witnessed dramatic scientific breakthroughs, especially in machine learning. While AI encompasses machine learning, machine learning is just one of the features of a fully intelligent general-purpose AI system. Machine learning allows expert systems to unlock abilities and faculties such as reasoning, perception, problem-solving, planning and more. These expert systems outperform human capacities, but only on specific tasks.

It is reasonable to expect that AI and machine learning will have a profound impact on our everyday lives and the skill sets companies look for in their employees. It will also affect learning and teaching. It is fair to ask how education will anticipate those changes. How successful education will be in doing so will depend on how well it manages to identify the frameworks within which the interaction between man and machine takes place.

Human activities & Artifical Intelligence

According to Leontiev's activity theory, human processes can be examined from the perspective of three levels of analysis, which are linked to each other in a hierarchical way: activity, actions and operations.

Photo: EHL

The top of the hierarchy represents the activity and its underlying motive: it dictates the meaning of an activity. Any activity is performed through goal-orientedactions. The intermediate level represents actions, which are essentially ways of solving those problems that need to be solved in order to accomplish the activity. Operations, in turn, implement the actions using tools that are available; it is the bottom level. In other words, the level of activityprovides the foundation for ethics. The actionsimplement the cognitive aspect of the activity and finally, operations are the repetitive routine skills to carry out the actions.

This three-level model of human processes provides a useful entry point for understanding AI and its potential impact on human activities. Societies and economies are reinventing themselves as users of new technologies with AI at the forefront. The impact of AI and automation on human activities is twofold: it can either transform them or replace them. Indeed, AI can support or substitute human activity when it comes to operations and actions, the two lowest levels of human processes.

Assuming that human-machine collaboration can relieve individuals from repetitive and, to a certain extent, cognitive tasks implies that people can - and should - shift their focus on the purpose and implications of their activity. This involves understanding the reason and meaning of their behavior and taking full responsibility for their actions. While today people are trained, through informal and formal education, to perform actions, tomorrow they will be required to take a step further. According to Gerbert (2018), "we need to prepare our people to 'go meta', leaving the constraints of the environment and moving to a higher abstraction or complementary level"[1], in other words, moving to their level of activity. The importance of educating people to reflect on the activity (in Leontiev's sense) is exemplified by the consequences of the so-called algorithmic bias: by learning from data in order to mimic human decision processes, a machine will also replicate human biases. AI-based algorithms have thus been accused of fueling discrimination by widening inequality in education, reinforcing gender bias in recruitment and leading to racially biased verdicts in criminal cases, for instance. In other words, "just because a technology is accurate doesn't make it fair or ethical" (Heilweil, 2020). [2]

Competencies

This paradigm shift calls for an adjustment of workers' skill sets. However, determining what competences need to be developed, and how, should stem from a holistic view of the systemic force of AI. AI should not be seen as a mere add-on tool, but must be understood as an intelligent system that can reshape human activities. Mastering its potential, therefore, goes hand in hand with the development of competencies that go well beyond the computer screen. Although education tends to focus mostly on the acquisition of technical competences, nine out of ten skills required in the future will be non-technical competencies, according to the World Economic Forum: [3]

Technical competencies range from expert knowledge such as developer skills to general knowledge in algorithmics, AI's limits and potential, and digitalization.

Non-technical competencies are soft skills such as higher-order critical, creative, and innovative thinking, collective intelligence as well as emotional intelligence. As Hess (2017) puts it, "the new smart will be about high critical thinking and team collaboration". [4]

Soft skills are crucial for one major reason: human-machine collaboration disrupts activity systems and therefore needs to be rethought and redesigned. Reflection should not be limited to AI's uses for current processes, but should extend to imagining possible future (or even futuristic) scenarios. The role of education as an incubator of the competences needed to fuel this process is crucial.

AI & education

As part of the 2020 edition of Le Forum des 100 conference, a study [5] has been conducted to assess the extent to which upper-secondary and post-secondary schools in Suisse romande (French-speaking Switzerland) are preparing students - and therefore future workers - for the challenges and opportunities posed by AI. The findings of this study are insightful.

Firstly, the term "AI" is often misinterpreted. Teaching how to use a computer is not teaching about AI, nor is digitalizing education. In fact, AI principles and functions can be taught without the use of IT.

Secondly, there is some awareness that AI can serve schools as much as it can be taught at school. AI is reshaping the core foundations of education, teaching and learning. As was pointed out earlier, AI impacts human activity and this applies to teaching methods as well. Machine learning in education may indeed be an opportunity to walk away from a "one-size-fits-all" approach and to develop teaching tools that personalize learning and are tailored to individual needs and capabilities. In his article "How AI could personalize education", Rouhiainen (2019) envisions "AI-based learning systems that would be able to give professors useful information about their students' learning styles, abilities, and progress, and provide suggestions for how to customize their teaching methods to students' individual needs". [6] This would allow students experiencing learning difficulties, for instance, to acquire extra tutoring that specifically addresses the identified gap.

Last but not least, as human-machine collaboration enters the world of education, curricula will need to be rethought, and teachers and education designers will need to "go meta". In its report on AI in education "Lead the leap", Unesco (2019) [7] claims that education should not be about making the curriculum more technological, but about teaching more human-centric skills, i.e., shifting the focus to the top level of Leontiev's pyramid, the activity. Unesco's Beijing consensus on AI and education reminds us of the human-rights' implications of "preparing all people with the appropriate values and skills needed for effective human-machine collaboration in life, learning and work, and for sustainable development". [8] As the study on schools in Suisse romande shows, the importance of fostering this type of values and skills is generally overlooked.

The importance of soft skills

As contradictory as it may sound in the AI era, being smart will mean mastering a higher level of soft skills. On the one hand, understanding AI is key. On the other hand, developing soft skills is necessary to get the best out of this technology.

Although digitalization brings us one step closer to AI, too little emphasis is put today on the range of soft skills essential to make effective and responsible use of AI. Reflecting on the common perception that soft skills can be acquired mainly through life experiences, many universities and colleges see them as something that is "learned" only during internships. Explicitly developing soft skills in class would thus be a rather new responsibility for our education systems and an exciting opportunity to elevate the focus of educational programs from providing know-how to providing know-how-to-be.

References:

[1] Gerbert, P. (2018, May 16). AI and the 'Augmentation Fallacy'. MIT Sloan Management Review.

[2] Heilweil, R. (2020, Feb. 18). Why algorithms can be racist and sexist. Vox.

[3] World Economic Forum. (2018). The future of Jobs 2018.

[4] Hess, E. (2017, June 19). In the AI age, "Being Smart" Will Mean Something Completely Different. Harvard Business Review.

[5] Borrelly, C. and Sfreddo, C. (2020). La formation en reponse aux nouveaux defis economiques poses par l'intelligence artificielle. Ecole hoteliere de Lausanne. Available from the authors.

[6] Rouhiainen, L. (2019, October 2019). How AI and Data Could Personalize Higher Education. Harvard Business Review.

[7] Unesco. (2019). International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Education, Planning Education in the AI Era: Lead the leap - Final report.

[8] Ibid.
New Delhi:

Enforcement Directorate moved Supreme Court on Friday urging it not to release the properties of Dayanidhi Maran and his brother Kalanithi, attached by it in the Aircel-Maxis deal case.

A bench of Chief Justice J S Khehar and Justices N V Ramana and D Y Chandrachud asked the Special Public Prosecutor Anand Grover to file a proper petition and said it will be taken up at 2 PM.

The agency, in its appeal urged the apex court to direct the special 2G court against accepting the bonds furnished by the Marans after their discharge.

Former telecom minister Dayanidhi Maran and his industrialist brother and others were discharged by a special court on Thursday in Aircel-Maxis case.

ALSO READ | 2G spectrum scam: Supreme Court restrains transfer of 2G licences from Malaysia's Maxis

The court ruled out the charges, citing them to be surmises of the complainant, misreading of official files and speculation.

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Before the ceasefire on Feb 24, Pakistan resorted to over 4,000 border violations

Amidst ceasefire claims, Pakistan continues to keep J&K on the boil

664 ceasefire violations this year in Jammu and Kashmir by Pakistan: MHA

No ceasefire violation along LoC in Kashmir since February agreement

Two soldiers martyred, 4 injured in unprovoked ceasefire violation by Pakistan

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

New Delhi, Oct 01: Two soldiers of the Indian Army have been martyred and four others injured in a ceasefire violation by Pakistan in north Kashmir's Naugam sector.

Indian Army Spokesperson, Rajesh Kalia in a statement said that Pakistan initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation along the LoC in Naugam sector, Kupwara by firing mortars and other weapons.

"Two soldiers fatal. Four soldiers injured, being evacuated. Befitting response is being given," the spokesperson also said.

Indian soldier martyred after Pak resorts to unprovoked ceasefire violation

A Lance Naik of the Indian Army was martyred after Pakistan resorted to ceasefire violation on the Line of Control on Wednesday.

The Pakistan army on September 30 resorted to unprovoked ceasefire violation on the Line of Control in the Krishna Ghati sector, district Poonch in Jammu and Kashmir. The Indian troops responded strongly to the enemy fire.

Lance Naik Karnal Singh was critically injured and later succumbed to his injuries.

Hathras sealed ahead of Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi's visit|Oneindia News

Lance Naik Karnail Singh was a brave, highly motivated and a sincere soldier. The nation will always remain indebted to him for his supreme sacrifice and devotion to duty, the Army said.

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Thursday, October 1, 2020, 16:48 [IST]
(Newser)  As director of the Auschwitz Memorial, Piotr Cywinski has a solid grasp of the horrors of detention. He's ready to dive in anyway. Cywinski has sent a letter to Nigeria's president requesting the pardon of a 13-year-old boy sentenced by a Sharia court to 10 years in prison for blasphemy, or alternatively, that 120 volunteersCywinski among themeach serve one month in his place, per Deutsche Welle. Omar Farouq was convicted last month in Kano state, one of 12 Nigerian states where Sharia law is practiced alongside secular law, after speaking ill of Allah during an argument with a friend, per CNN. Had he been an adult, he would've been sentenced to death, lawyer Kola Alapinni tells the Telegraph. Indeed, the same judge sentenced another man to death for blasphemy; that man was convicted on the same day as Omar. The boy's mother had already fled her home due to angry mobs.

story continues below

Alapinni, who hasn't been able to see the boy, has filed an appeal on his behalf. He says the sentence violates the African Charter of the Rights and Welfare of a Child and Nigeria's constitution. "We are a multi-religious state with freedom of thought, expression, and religion enshrined in the constitution," he tells the Telegraph. "This should not be happening." Peter Hawkins, UNICEF's representative in Nigeria, is also calling for the sentence to be reversed, noting it "negates all core underlying principles of child rights and child justice that Nigeriaand by implication, Kano statehas signed on to," per CNN. Meanwhile, Cywinski is awaiting a response from President Muhammadu Buhari, who visited Auschwitz in 2018. "There are some times we have to stop our own silence and try to do something," he tells the Telegraph, adding he has kids of Omar's age. (Read more Sharia law stories.)
David Landis

Having been around the block a while, our agency has seen industry sectors boom and bust. And, in turn, some of the public relations professionals that serve those industries have succumbed to the vagaries of economic upheaval.

But at LCI, we had a plan. We implemented what we thought was a recession-proof strategy after the last Great Recession: concentrate on healthcare. The theory was, people will always need healthcare, and with a sizeable Boomer generation getting olderand ready to retireit would be a growing industry sector.

And then COVID hitand changed everything. That old adage comes to mind: The only thing constant in life is change.

So, whats the new normal in healthcare PR? Lets take a look at what happened to the industry and how it impacted the PR sector. We all assumed that healthcare providersand their PR professionalswould be even more needed, especially during times of crises and, above all, during pandemics. Instead, it turned out to be a mixed bag.

Why? Because the U.S. healthcare system is set up so that the economic generators for healthcare organizationsmostly elective surgerieswere completely interrupted because of the pandemic. And the snowball effect was that healthcare systems that needed to be there for us during a pandemic had even fewer resources to handle the pandemic. The snowball grew to an avalanche: organizations made budget cuts throughout their businesses, including public relations (both externally and internally).

According to Jack OBrien, writing for Health Leaders in March, The rapid spread of coronavirus has U.S. hospitals faced with several issues related to operating margins, revenue collection and reimbursement for treating patients with this disease. Within the past two weeks, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has significantly disrupted the American way of life, sinking the countrys economic system and placing hospitals under unprecedented financial and clinical stress.

In the San Francisco Bay Area and Silicon Valley region where we work, according to the San Francisco Business Times, budget cuts were widespread. Stanford Health Care cut salaries by 20 percent beginning in April. University of California-San Francisco cut costs by $45 million in July. And Sutter Health reported more than a $1 billion loss for the first quarter of 2020 (their financials turned around in the second quarter, with net $231 million, but for the first half of 2020, the system still had a loss of $831 million). (Full disclosure, all of these healthcare systems are former LCI clients).

To survive, healthcare systems are looking for unique ways to ride the financial vagaries, such as forging new partnerships with insurers to pave the way. In our market, Cigna and Dignity Healthcare just announced a new agreement between the two entities that will allow Dignitys hospitals, outpatient surgery centers and medical groups to be in-network providers for Cigna members.

Theres a silver lining in all this. While traditional, big healthcare providers have faced undue financial challenges, healthcare startups are riding a newand positivewave.

According to Tara Bannow, reporter with Modern Healthcare (July 2020), the pandemic has spurred a flood of venture capital funding to healthcare startups. Venture capital funding in healthcare intensified in the first half of 2020 as COVID-19 made virtual care and similar technologies indispensable. Startups focused on telehealth, mental health, wearables and even transportation have gained new relevance during the pandemic. Companies that convinced investors of their long-term staying power even after the crisis subsides gained particular traction when it came to raising capital.

Weve seen decades of progress in 12 to 14 weeks, said Unity Stoakes, President and Co-Founder of the healthcare startup incubator StartUp Health.

Global venture capital funding for digital health and health innovation, continued Bannow, totaled $9.1 billion in the first half of the year, up from $7.7 billion during the same period in 2019, according to a second-quarter report from StartUp Health. And 2019 was itself a banner year for startup funding. (Many of) the types of companies that attracted funding are both, directly and indirectly, related to the pandemic. Virtual care platform Conversa Health, for instance, in June closed $12 million in Series B funding. Conversa helps health systems monitor and manage patients across a variety of specialties, including oncology, acute discharge and wellness. During the pandemic, that has included patients who need to be monitored while quarantined at home. It counts such prominent health systems as Northwell Health and University Hospitals in Cleveland as clients.

For us at LCI, this upheaval is just another pivot. Weve seen firsthand that many healthcare and biopharma startups here in the Bay Area and Silicon Valley got funded before the pandemic hit; they still have money to spend and recognize the value of PR. For instance, we helped launch Frontier Medicines, a bio-pharma startup funded by a $67 million Series A financing round last June. (Frontier Medicines leverages chemoproteomics and machine learning to drug the undruggable protein targets that drive human disease). Despite the pandemic, we also just signed another new startup healthcare client in August. According to Erica Young, writing for Healthcare Weekly in 2019, We reviewed more than 200 healthcare startups that have received funding or announced major initiatives in 2020.

Additional areas of PR opportunity are all the new wellness businesses that are springing up during COVID. Market research firm Technavio has been monitoring the health and wellness market and says that its poised to grow by $1299.84 billion during 2020-2024, progressing at a compound annual growth rate of over six percent during the forecast period. These businesses require and need PR, too.

On another front, many healthcare businesses are re-jiggering to help people weather this pandemic. Our client Centre for Neuro Skills helps patients rehabilitate through traumatic or acquired brain injury. But lately, doctors have noticed that patients have had health consequences after recovering from COVID. These consequences include neuro injury and cognitive impairmentswhich require rehabilitation. Helping clients like this navigate communications through changing COVID waters is yet another way PR pros can help, and a necessary and valued offering that supports business success through a challenging time.

So, the transformations to the healthcare industry arent bad news for public relations; its just change. And isnt that something at which PR pros excel?

***

David Landis is President and CEO of San Francisco-based Landis Communications Inc. (LCI), which this year celebrates 30 years in business. Email David at david@landispr.com.
Primero Transport Services Ltd, operators of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) in Lagos State, has expressed regret over an accident that claimed tw...

Primero Transport Services Ltd, operators of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) in Lagos State, has expressed regret over an accident that claimed two lives on Wednesday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the accident, involving a BRT bus and a commercial motorcycle operator carrying two passengers, took place on BRT lane at Ile-Igbo inward Abule-Egba area of Lagos.

The firm, in a statement by its Head of Corporate Communications, Mr. Mutiu Yekeen, commiserated with the family of the victims.

Narrating the accident, Yakeen said at about 4 a.m, a bus heading to Abule-Egba from Oshodi, was involved in an accident that claimed the lives of two on the spot.

A commercial motorcyclist, according to the Busman, appeared from nowhere on the BRT corridor.

The driver who could not avoid the motorcycle which had no headlamp and was facing the oncoming bus, knocked down the victims, Yekeen added.

According to him, the driver of the BRT bus quickly ran to Oke-Odo police station to report the matter.

He added that when the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) team arrived at the scene, two people were discovered to have died on the spot and were taken away by the team.

Yekeen said that the third person was taken to the hospital by the emergency team.





The BRT spokesman added that the BRT bus and the motorcycle (Okada) are at Oke-Odo Police Division.

The matter is still under investigation as the IPO in charge of the case asked the BRT management to give police 48 hours for the families of the victims to appear.

The life of every Lagosian is precious to Primero.

While we regret the accident that led to the loss of lives, the management appeals to all commercial motorcyclists, private cars and danfo drivers to stop encroaching on the BRT corridors to avoid future accidents, the statement added.

Yakeen lamented that the operators are facing so many challenges on BRT corridors and the biggest remains motorcycle riders encroaching into BRT lanes.

He urged the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority, LAMATA, and Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA to assist in deploying their officers to checkmate the activities of drivers that have invaded the BRT corridors.
At least Priti Patel has some imagination. Usually when politicians moan about asylum seekers, they say they should get back to where they come from, but shes more spirited and says they should be sent to Ascension Island.

Next week shell suggest that as they cross water so often, they should be sent to the second century to be Roman galley slaves, and Jacob Rees-Mogg will add: This has the advantage of teaching them Latin, which will stand them in good stead for development of their soul.

The Ascension Island plan was discussed at a brainstorming session, so which methods of keeping them at sea were rejected? Her other choices must have been balancing asylum seekers on wind turbines with torches to make cheap lighthouses, retraining them as whales to entertain tourists, and making them swim to Gibraltar and swish the water along to make the North Sea warmer.

Another suggestion was to send them to Papua New Guinea or Nauru for processing, because while we cant take a few hundred extra people as we dont have space or resources, Papua New Guinea and Nauru are overflowing with resources they dont know what to do with.

Maybe the brainstorming session took place during an episode of Pointless, and whenever an obscure country was mentioned, the brainstormers yelled: That will do.

Dominic Raab probably shouted Magnesium, send them to magnesium, until Gavin Williamson looked it up and told him it was an element, not a country.

The main objection to welcoming refugees is we cant afford the cost. So it makes sense that to reduce that cost, weve suggested transporting them 4,000 miles away to process their claim. Any family on a tight budget understands this. My mum would often say: We havent any money until the end of the month. So instead of staying in tonight, were going to travel four thousand miles to the south Atlantic.

But refugees and asylum seekers see us as a soft touch. This is why they pay their life savings to cram onto rubber lilos and paddle across the channel using a Toblerone as an oar; theyre expecting us to look after them as they wont make an effort.

Laura Trott, the Tory MP for Sevenoaks, said we must look at the Ascension Island proposal, because we have to reduce the pressure on Kent. Apparently, sending people to Ascension Island is generally the most practical way to do that. When the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch miniature railway gets overcrowded on a sunny day in summer, they get around the problem by getting some passengers to take a miniature schooner to Ascension Island instead.

Its true that Kent has extra pressure on it from immigration, because last week it was announced that after Brexit, there could be 80-mile queues of lorries through Kent. This means the population of Kent is set to rise to 35 million, of which 34 million will be Romanian truck drivers stuck on the slip road to the M20. Trott must be furious with whichever government put so much pressure on Kent by causing that.

Shes expressing the central problem with allowing migrants into the country, which is that they add pressure to our overstretched land. For example, thousands of tons of apples have gone rotten this year, because of a lack of foreign labour to pick it. So we cant afford to let people in who might turn that fruit into food, preventing OUR apples from being infested with proper BRITISH maggots.

Similarly, half the NHS is staffed by immigrants, forcing us to come up with more illnesses to provide them with work.

And weve run out of space. This must be why the government has done all it can to give us the worst fatality rate in Europe from the virus, because were too crowded and need to lose a few thousand.

The latest proposals that seem to be favourites are using wave machines to keep migrants away, or placing them on oil rigs, or specially bought ferries.

One problem here is that Nigel Farage will complain, A FERRY? Whats wrong with sticking them all on a pedalo?

Because the trick to dealing with refugees is to look as hostile to committing any resources to them at all, even if that hostility takes up far more resources than being vaguely human.

So the government makes statements such as: To prevent refugees wasting our money, weve spent 10 billion pounds on a machine that fires cat-sick at them off the cliffs of Dover.

Then the opposition to the government often falls into line, so one rule about this discussion is it has to start with: Obviously we understand the concerns of the British people about immigration. And thats fair, because when 40 people who fled a war zone have drifted across sea on a raft made from a packet of Kleenex tissues, the people we must be concerned about are pensioners in Wiltshire with a house they finished paying for in 1987, who fear were being invaded because there was a man in a turban on the Antiques Roadshow.

Then they all agree the reason we have to come up with these measures is to stop the refugees making these dangerous crossings.

Of course, because Patel is only thinking of the welfare of the people in the boats.

This is why, if your neighbour is fleeing their house because its on fire, the last thing you should do is invite them in and give them a cup of tea. That only encourages them. Its much kinder to set a rabid German Shepherd on them to deter them, while you pour urine on them from an upstairs window and blame them for your own s****y life.
Dublin, Oct. 01, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Agricultural Adjuvants Market by Function (Activator and Utility), Application (Herbicides, Insecticides, and Fungicides), Formulation (Suspension Concentrates and Emulsifiable Concentrates), Adoption Stage, Crop Type, and Region - Global Forecast 2026" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The global agricultural adjuvants market size is estimated to be valued at USD3.1billion in 2020 and is projected to reach USD 4.4billion by 2026, recording a CAGR of 6.1%.



Factors such as growing demand for crop protection products had also resulted in the development and commercialization of sustainable crop protection solutions, to abide by environmental regulations are projected to drive the growth of this market.



The governments shut down borders and economies for restricting the spread of the coronavirus. This resulted in businesses observing major impacts on their international trades. Many markets are focusing on fulfilling their requirements for fertilizers, pesticides, and adjuvants by domestic companies. This is, however, causing an imbalance between the demand and supply quantities. However, some regions are completely dependent on imports and are facing tough situations. Adjuvants are majorly dependent on raw materials such as vegetable oils and petroleum for their production. Gradually the rise in the prices of these commodities has resulted in higher adjuvant prices. All these factors hampered the potential growth of the market at the beginning of 2020.



The activator adjuvants segment is projected to be the largest in the agricultural adjuvants market during the forecast period.



Activator adjuvants are the most widely consumed agricultural adjuvants, owing to the high use of surfactants in various pesticide formulations. Most herbicides are mixed with surfactants to improve their spraying characteristics. The modes of activator adjuvant include reduction of spray solution surface tension to enhance contact area, increased spray retention, and protection of the herbicide in the spray solution. Also, there are a number of crop protection solutions that are formulated with surfactant compounds as a part of the formulation. Surfactants are one of the important adjuvants and are manufactured by most global manufacturers.



The cereals & grains segment to witness the fastest growth during the forecast period.



By crop type, the agricultural adjuvants market is segmented into cereals & grains, oilseeds & pulses, fruits & vegetables, and other segments. The increasing popularity of industrial crops such as corn, soybean, canola, and wheat, and the rising demand for high-value cash crops such as coffee, fruits, and vegetables have also been fueling the demand for adjuvants. Manufacturers have also been focused on the development of adjuvants for specific pesticide groups. These adjuvants, such as surfactants, spreader stickers, anti-foaming materials, buffering agents, and compatibility agents, are added to crop protection products or agrochemicals for enhancing the efficacy of the active ingredients and thus, helps in improving the overall performance of the product.



The in-formulation segment expected to have a larger market share during the forecast period.



By the adoption stage, the agricultural adjuvants market is segmented into in-formulation and tank-mix. Adjuvants which are incorporated in the formulation are called as built-in or in-formulation adjuvants. With the increasing demand from customers for agrochemicals that can be directly applied to the crops and do not require any separate addition of chemicals; manufacturers have introduced in-formulation adjuvants that are incorporated into pre-packaged pesticides products.



North America market is estimated to account for the largest market share due to the rapid adoption of advanced technologies for better yielding of crops in the region.



North America is the largest market for agricultural adjuvants across the globe. The high consumption of surfactants recorded in countries across the globe and the advent of sustainable oil adjuvants are the major reasons for the dominance of activator adjuvants across the region. The agricultural adjuvants market is dominated by North America owing to the adoption of modern agricultural technologies and integrated pest management practices.

Key Topics Covered:



1 Introduction



2 Research Methodology



3 Executive Summary

4 Premium Insights

4.1 Attractive Opportunities in the Agricultural Adjuvants Market

4.2 Agricultural Adjuvants Market, by Function

4.3 Agricultural Adjuvants Market, by Application & Region

4.4 North America: Agricultural Adjuvants Market, by Crop Type & Country

4.5 Agricultural Adjuvants Market, by Key Countries

5 Market Overview

5.1 Introduction

5.2 Macroeconomic Indicators

5.2.1 Rise in Global Pesticide Consumption

5.2.2 Decrease in Oil Prices

5.3 Market Dynamics

5.3.1 Drivers

5.3.1.1 Increased Demand for Green Adjuvants With Growing Focus on Health and Consumption of Organically Produced Food Due to Covid-19 Outbreak

5.3.1.2 Limiting Pesticide Wastage by Improving Usage Efficiency to Increase Food Production and Meet Rising Food Consumption Amid the Pandemic

5.3.2 Restraints

5.3.2.1 Stringent Regulations to Manufacture Adjuvants

5.3.3 Opportunities

5.3.3.1 Manufacturing Adjuvant Products for Cost-Effectiveness

5.3.3.2 Adjuvants for Biological Products

5.3.3.3 Increase in Research & Development on Innovative Adjuvant Products

5.3.3.4 Drift Potential of UAVs With Adjuvants in Aerial Applications

5.3.4 Challenges

5.3.4.1 Impact on the Production Cost of Farmers

5.3.4.2 Growth in Human Health and Environmental Concerns of Petroleum Oil-Based Adjuvants

5.3.4.3 High Risks of Food Insecurity and Reduced Food Production in Many Countries Due to Covid-19 Impact in 2020

5.4 Patent Analysis

5.5 Regulatory Framework

5.5.1 North America

5.5.1.1 US

5.5.2 Canada

5.5.2.1 Europe

5.5.2.2 UK

5.5.2.3 Germany

5.5.3 Asia-Pacific

5.5.3.1 Australia

5.5.3.2 South Africa



6 Agricultural Adjuvants Market, by Function

6.1 Introduction

6.2 Activator Adjuvants

6.2.1 Surfactants

6.2.1.1 Nonionic Surfactants Are the Most Commonly Used Surfactants and Are Becoming Increasingly Compatible With Various Agrochemicals

6.2.2 Oil-Based Adjuvants

6.2.2.1 Oil-Based Adjuvants Help in Increasing the Penetration of Oil-Soluble Herbicides in Plants and Are Thus Used for Synthetic Herbicides

6.3 Utility Adjuvants

6.3.1 Compatibility Agents

6.3.1.1 Compatibility Agents Are Mostly Used for Making the Mixture Homogeneous and Sprayable in Herbicides

6.3.2 Buffers/Acidifiers

6.3.2.1 Buffers Help in Improving the Herbicide Dispersion in Tank-Mix Formulations

6.3.3 Antifoam Agents

6.3.3.1 Antifoam Agents Are Used to Eliminate Oil Spills in Foaming Tanks, Reduce Pesticide Wastage, and Limit Occupational Hazards

6.3.4 Water Conditioners

6.3.4.1 Water Conditioners Are Used for Minimizing Sediment and Other Impurities to Enhance the Quality of Pesticides

6.3.5 Anti-Drift Agents

6.3.5.1 Increase in the Usage of Anti-Drift Agents to Control Occupational Hazards

6.3.6 Other Utility Adjuvants



7 Agricultural Adjuvants Market, by Application

7.1 Introduction

7.2 Insecticides

7.2.1 Increase in Demand for Organic Products in Asia-Pacific is Driving the Demand for Adjuvants in Bioinsecticide-Based Applications

7.3 Herbicides

7.3.1 High Consumption of Herbicides is a Key Factor Encouraging the Adoption of Adjuvants Such as Safeners, Cocs, and Drift Control Agents

7.4 Fungicides

7.4.1 Key Players Such as Croda International plc (Uk) Are Opting for Adjuvant Applications Specific for Fungicide Use

7.5 Other Applications

7.5.1 Increase in the Consumption of Specialty Fertilizers is Projected to Drive the Growth of the Agricultural Adjuvants Market

7.5.2 Covid-19 Impact on Applications



8 Agricultural Adjuvants Market, by Crop Type

8.1 Introduction

8.1.1 Cereals & Grains

8.1.1.1 The Cereals & Grains Segment Continues to Dominate the Agricultural Adjuvants Market in the Asian and North American Countries

8.1.2 Corn

8.1.3 Wheat

8.1.4 Rice

8.1.5 Others

8.1.6 Oilseeds & Pulses

8.1.6.1 There is Increased Use of High-Value Oilseeds as Cash Crops Due to the Increase in Herbicide Applications on Crops

8.1.7 Soybean

8.1.8 Others

8.1.9 Fruits & Vegetables

8.1.9.1 Nonionic Surfactants Are Largely Used in Fungicidal Solutions for Improving the Quality of Fruits and Vegetables

8.2 Others

8.2.1 a Gradual Increase in the Use of Ethanol for Biofuel and Molasses for Feed is Projected to Drive the Demand for Agricultural Adjuvants in the European Market



9 Agricultural Adjuvants Market, by Formulation

9.1 Introduction

9.2 Suspension Concentrate

9.2.1 Benefits of Suspension Concentrate Such as Absence of Dust and Small Particle Size of the Active Ingredients Reduces Environment Risks

9.3 Emulsifiable Concentrate

9.3.1 the Emulsifiable Concentrate Segment is Projected to Have the Fastest Growth in the Asia-Pacific Region



10 Agricultural Adjuvants Market, by Adoption Stage

10.1 Introduction

10.2 In-Formulation

10.2.1 In-Formulation Adjuvants Witness High Preference Among Growers Due to Enhanced Performance

10.3 Tank-Mix

10.3.1 Tank-Mix Adjuvants, Mostly Utility Adjuvants Increase the Overall Performance of the Plant Protection Products



11 Agricultural Adjuvants Market, by Region

11.1 Introduction

11.2 North America

11.3 Covid-19 Impact on North American Adjuvants Market

11.5 Covid-19 Impact on European Adjuvants Market

11.6 Asia-Pacific

11.7 Covid-19 Impact on Asia-Pacific Market

11.8 South America

11.9 Rest of the World (Row)



12 Competitive Landscape

12.1 Overview

12.2 Competitive Leadership Mapping

12.2.1 Dynamic Differentiators

12.2.2 Innovators

12.2.3 Visionary Leaders

12.2.4 Emerging Companies

12.3 Competitive Scenario

12.3.1 New Product Launches

12.3.2 Expansions & Investments

12.3.3 Mergers & Acquisitions

12.3.4 Collaborations, Agreements, Joint Ventures, and Partnerships



13 Company Profiles

13.1 Corteva Agriscience

13.2 Evonik Industries

13.3 Croda International

13.4 Nufarm

13.5 Solvay

13.6 Basf

13.7 Huntsman Corporation

13.8 Clariant

13.9 Helena Agri-Enterprises LLC

13.10 Stepan Company

13.11 Wilbur-Ellis Company

13.12 Brandt

13.13 Plant Health Technologies

13.14 Innvictis Crop Care

13.15 Miller Chemical and Fertilizer, LLC

13.16 Precision Laboratories, LLC

13.17 CHS Inc.

13.18 Winfield United

13.19 Kalo Inc.

13.20 Nouryon

13.21 Interagro Ltd.

13.22 Lamberti S.P.A

13.23 Garrco Products, Inc.

13.24 Drexel Chemical Company

13.25 Loveland Products Inc.



14 Adjacent & Related Markets



15 Appendix



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/u2zqbl

Research and Markets also offers Custom Research services providing focused, comprehensive and tailored research.
On Wednesday, all 32 accused, including prominent BJP leaders, in Ayodhya's Babri Masjid demolition on December 6, 1992 were acquitted after an Uttar Pradesh court ruled the demolition was not planned and involved "anti-social elements".

Archive

Young Muslims Speak Out

A day later, India Times have spoken to the young generation of Indian Muslims to learn what they think about the landmark verdict.

Speaking to 28-year-old Ameen Kaleem, a media professional based in Chennai, he said, "More than the dispute, it is about the violence, the destruction, discrimination and intolerance. Someone must have brought the structure down. Whoever did it, should have been punished regardless of their identity or religion"

"Let down by verdict"

Ameen made clear that he respects the court verdict and went on to say, "Muslims certainly feel let down. There is photographic evidence, public statements were made, still no one is held responsible. The community is definitely disappointed and doesn't even feel the need to protest."

Another 26-year-old from Kashmir, who didn't wish to be named due to the fear of reprisal, said, "This isn't a secular country. It is secular on papers but actions speak louder than words."

He further added, "I am not surprised by the judgment. When are minorities not suppressed in this country? If accused can be acquitted in 1984 riots, 2002 riots, 2020 Delhi riots, then accused can be acquitted in 1992 case as well."

"Feel abandoned"

A 22-year-old medical student from Delhi who didn't wish to be named said, "I feel abandoned, alienated as a young Muslim woman. The judgment has brought back the pain and suffering my family had gone through on that fateful night."

She said, "Not just that, it is direct contradiction to Supreme Court's verdict which said 'it's an egregious violation of rule of law. The CBO however, said, 'no conspiracy'. Who is to be believed? It further risks emboldening the people who cheered the violence."

"Neither of the communities will gain anything from a protest "

Abu Sufiyan, 28-year-old Digital Marketer based in Old Delhi said, "Muslims are definitely angered by the judgment".

Sufiyan also said, "The judgment has now been delivered. Neither of the communities will gain anything from a protest."

Another 28-year-old journalist Mohsin said, "Hatred against us is now out in the open. The government doesn't want anyone to question them. A mosque was demolished overnight, everyone knows about it but apparently those responsible are acquitted. Great."
(Natural News) An undercover video investigation by James OKeefes Project Veritas revealed a Minnesota-based source describes Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., as the mastermind behind a cash-for-ballots, voter-fraud scheme.

(Article republished from WND.com)

Nobody would say that Ilhan Omar isnt part of this, said Omar Jamal, a Somali community insider and the chairman of the Somali Watchdog group. Unless youre from a different planet, but if you live in this universe, I think everybody knows it.

Jamal claimed a staffer in Omars office, Ali Isse Gainey, is at the center of a vote-buying scheme.

On Monday, Project Veritas released a video alleging paid workers in Omars congressional district in Minneapolis are illegally gathering absentee ballots from elderly Somali immigrants.

Members of the Somali community interviewed by Project Veritas charge Omar and the state Democratic Party, the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party, are behind the ballot harvesting.

The investigation features alleged ballot harvester Liban Mohamed in a Snapchat video with piles of ballots on his car dashboard.

Mohamed is the brother of Minneapolis City Council member Jamal Osman.

Just today we got 300 for Jamal Osman, Mohamed says in the video. I have 300 ballots in my car right now.

He boasts in his SnapChat video July 1: Numbers dont lie. You can see my car is full. All these here are absentee ballots.  Look, all these are for Jamal Osman.

Money is the king in this world  and a campaign is driven by money.

WATCH THE FIRST VIDEO:

Now Project Veritas has released its second installment:

Project Veritas noted state law forbids individuals from working as an agent for more than three ballots.

But Jamal explains that operatives for Omar would go into voting booths with voters, pretending to help them. Instead, the operative does the voting.

Project Veritas recorded a Minneapolis ballot harvester with a hidden camera describing how the operatives make sure the voters vote correctly by walking into the booth with the voter.

The ballot harvester explained: They help us at the voting booth. They allow them to help us. They go inside with us and help us, and they actually do that inside there.

Project Veritas reported the ballot harvester said there is no confusion. The operatives doing the voting: They actually are the ones who vote, people dont usually  they do the voting.

Osman Ali Dahquane, a taxi driver in Minneapolis who allegedly was involved in local vote buying strategies, said Omar paid for votes.

We dont mind illegal, Dahquane said. If this continues this direction, many people will go to prison, or no one will vote in the city of Minneapolis. It is very, very corrupt. We are in trouble if they come after us. We are in big trouble if they come after us.

OKeefe said Dahquane has a clear, blatant disregard for Americans political process.

He has no fear of his illegal actions  so much so that he casually mentions having to pay off Al-Shabaab, a.k.a. Al-Qaeda, to open a business back home in Mogadishu, OKeefe said.

Dahaquane was recorded by a Project Veritas undercover journalist talking about the difficulty of trying to open a business in Mogadishu and the money he had to send to the terrorist group Al-Shabaab as part of the process.

I sent it from my account. I sent Mogadishu $2,000 last night. Here is the receipt, Dahaquane said. Im requesting a license to be issued at the Ministry of Interior. Its very expensive. It cost me $2,000. Still, I still have to pay Al-Shabaab to leave me aloneAl-Shabaab, they are demanding $1,000.

Dahquane said that even election judges are being paid.

The statements suggest, according to Jered Ede, the chief legal officer for Project Veritas, that there have been violations of both state and federal laws.

That includes paying or being paid to register to vote and intimidation. Penalties could range to five years in prison.

Jamal warned in the report that the fraud is a clear danger.

If the American people dont pay attention to whats happening, it is going to soon  the country will collapse, he said. The regulations, if you ignore that and you let corruption and fraud become a daily business then tough luck, the country will not exist as they know it.

Read more at: WND.com
Prabhas is set to conclude work on his upcoming big project Radhe Shyam. The actor was recently spotted at Hyderabad airport after nearly seven months. Prabhas is flying to Italy to conclude filming for the forthcoming drama film also starring Pooja Hegde. The actor was seen dressed in an oversized beige outfit and casual black coloured joggers. He was also a pair of sunshades and a face mask for protection.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ETimes (@etimes) on Sep 30, 2020 at 11:50pm PDT

View this post on Instagram A post shared by THYVIEW (@thyview) on Oct 1, 2020 at 12:48am PDT

Prior to the lockdown announcement, Prabhas and the rest of the Radhe Shyam team were filming in Georgia. However, they hurriedly returned to India due to the travel ban.

The upcoming romantic drama set in the 1900s is written and directed by Radha Krishna Kumar. The film is simultaneously being shot in Telugu and Hindi.

Prabhas has to work on another big project after wrapping up work on Radhe Shyam. The actor will start preparing for a trilingual film directed by Nag Ashwin. The yet-to-be-titled sci-fi film will mark the maiden collaboration of Prabhas with actress Deepika Padukone.

The actor also has Om Rauts film titled Adipurush. The mythological film will be a screen adaptation of the Hindu epic Ramayana. The pan-India project will be simultaneously shot in Telugu and Hindi languages.

Prabhas will essay the role of Lord Ram. He is said to undergo physical transformation and learn archery to play the ambitious character. The role of antagonist Lankesh will be essayed by Saif Ali Khan. The epic period actioner will be captured in 3D and high on visual effects. The big-budget venture is expected to go on floors early 2021.

Pooja, on the other hand, has started work on Akhil Akkineni-starrer Most Eligible Bachelor in Hyderabad. She will also be seen in Salman Khan-starrer Kabhi Eid Kabhi Diwali as the female protagonist.
MINNEAPOLIS, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Traveler's concerns have changed drastically in 2020 and many now worry about contracting COVID-19 if they decide to travel abroad. Some airlines have responded by offering free "COVID insurance" with their customer's tickets for a limited time.

The experts at Yonder Travel Insurance have looked at the certificates for these COVID-19 insurance policies to determine what's covered, not covered and why you might want to purchase additional travel insurance.

What's Covered?

What's most important to know about these airline-offered insurance policies is they only cover COVID-19 related events during your trip. If you were to contract COVID-19 while traveling, you could file a claim for reimbursement of medical and hospital expenses, medical evacuation, quarantine costs, and medical COVID-19 repatriation. Note the sickness must first occur while traveling for coverage to apply.

Emirates Airlines

Coverage valid 31 days from initial flight if traveling through October 31, 2020. Benefits are offered through NEXtCare Health Insurance, in which you can find the full terms and conditions .

Virgin Atlantic

Benefits valid if flights are 8/24/2020 - 3/31/2021. Coverage provided by Allianz . One-way tickets will have 12 hours of coverage after arrival.

Etihad Airways

Insurance offered through AXA is valid for 31 days from initial flight from 9/7/2020 - 12/31/2020. If traveling to OFAC areas or where travel is restricted, coverage is invalid.

WestJet

Coverage is limited to Canadians traveling from 9/18/2020 - 8/31/2021. Benefits valid on tickets to Mexico, the Caribbean, and specific EU countries.

What's Not Covered?

Although this free coverage provides benefits if you were to contract COVID-19 while traveling, you will be missing other vital benefits typically included with comprehensive travel insurance plans such as:

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Medical Coverage for Events Other Than COVID-19

Travel Loss and Delay

Why Purchase Additional Coverage?

Although free coverage is better than none, it's quite clear the coverage offered by airlines for COVID-19 is pretty specific and leaves out vital benefits --they aren't even considered full travel insurance policies. It's always a wise idea to purchase coverage for any kind of trip because there will always be risks involved with travel.

The experts at Yonder Travel Insurance have poured over hundreds of policies from the best travel insurance providers in the US to provide the best travel insurance recommendation for how YOU travel. Run a quick quote and compare travel insurance policies for your next trip using our instant quote tool . Yonder donates meals to vulnerable children in need with each policy sold so you can travel well, and do well, when you go Yonder.

Contact:

Terry Boynton, Co-Founder & President

(855-358-6433)

[email protected]

SOURCE Yonder Travel Insurance

Related Links

http://www.insureyonder.com


Mad Priest Coffee Roasters, a small coffee roasting company in Tennessee, just spent their savings to purchase a lot of the newly discovered Yemenia coffee species. The Qima Coffee Auction was in partnership with the Alliance for Coffee Excellence and drew some of the biggest names in coffee from around the world to pay upwards of $140 per pound. And Mad Priest decided to purchase this coffee during a pandemic when sales are way down, no less. Why would they do that?

According to Mad Priest owner and roaster, Michael Rice, I want to be a part of history, I want Mad Priest to be a vessel of the global coffee revolution through this new coffee species. No, Im not gonna make money on this. But as a company, we want to give accessibility for something big like this to the general public. We want to give people the opportunity to purchase this coffee from Yemen, and in doing so, play a role in changing the future of the coffee industry. We all need to be part of something bigger than ourselves.

Mad Priest is not new to Yemeni coffee; they offered a coffee from Yemen previously, in 2017, and the coffee was a special release called The Original Hipster. Mr. Rice says that this new Yemenia coffee is a whole new world, though, and obviously will have a higher price tag. The Yemenia coffee will be available to purchase from Mad Priest in store and online starting Nov. 1 in 4oz bags, and they will be hosting various coffee cuppings and educational opportunities surrounding the release for the month of November.

What exactly is Yemenia? A few weeks ago, Qima Coffee announced that they (together with World Coffee Research) had discovered a new coffee mother species, called Yemenia. Up until now, there have only been a few mother species (Bourbon/Typica, Ethiopia Heirloom) under the main species, Arabica. Why is this a big deal? With climate change and unrest around the world, the coffee industry has been facing massive challenges, said officials. So in more recent years, there has been more concerted effort to develop the specialty coffee industry in new countries (like Myanmar), as well as new processing methods, to help alleviate the strain on the global coffee community in order to meet consumption demands. New genetics in coffee potentially means expanded ways to produce better coffee with more resilience to disease and greater production capacity. And its a big deal for the war-torn country of Yemen, too, that is in desperate need of economic and social support, said officials.

Contrary to popular knowledge, Yemen has been part of the story of coffee for centuries, pretty much since the discovery of coffee. Though the coffee plant was discovered in Ethiopia, Yemen is the first place where coffee was cultivated as a crop and introduced as a drink to the world. And Yemen was responsible for the beginning of the coffee house movement in the 1500/1600s, which spread throughout the Middle East and beyond, creating a space for socializing, intellectual discourse, political debate, and of course, lots of chess. Coffee from Yemen has always been unique but very expensive for its quality, because of the processing and infrastructure challenges with the war and famine there. Then the last couple of years, theres been more development of coffee in Yemen with companies like Qima Coffee and Port of Mokha/ Mokhtar Alkhanshali (his story is told in the popular book, The Monk of Mokha). Mad Priest is honored to be just one part in what Qima coffee is calling, The Yemen coffee revolution.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: A Delhi court has dismissed the bail application of a man in the case related to Head Constable Ratan Lal's murder during the February riots in north east Delhi, saying that prima facie everything was being done under a well-hatched conspiracy.

Additional Sessions Judge Vinod Yadav dismissed the bail plea of Mohd Arif and said the common object of the conspiracy was to cause blockade of the main Wazirabad Road and if resisted by the police, then to go to any extent to liquidate them by use of force.

During the hearing held through video conferencing, Special Public Prosecutor Amit Prasad, appearing for the police, submitted that digital identification of Arif has been made at the scene of crime in the video of the alleged eye witness Vishal Chaudhary.

Advocate Mehmood Pracha, appearing for Arif, took a strong exception to the digital identification on the ground that it was impermissible in law after the filing of chargesheet.

To this, Prasad emphasized that no new material has been added in the matter, but with the use of technology only the process of identification has been changed.

The court said in its order passed on September 30, "In my prima facie view, there is no bar in investigating agency employing technical tools to conduct further investigation.

" "The applicant (Arif) is clearly visible in CCTV footage of GNCT Camera at 12.06.35 hours on February 24, 2020, while wearing white shirt and black lower, carrying a 'stick' in his hands and also seen damaging the CCTV camera.

The photographs of the applicant have also been captured by video footage.

"The CDR (Call Detail Record) location of the mobile phone of applicant bearing number has been found to be at the scene of crime on the date of incident; it also came to fore during the course of investigation that he was in touch with the other accused persons in the matter.

" it said.

The court further said that from the statements of a number of witnesses recorded in the matter as well as perusal of the relevant CCTV footages, it was prima facie apparent that on February 24, from at around 11.

00 am onwards there was some kind of buzz around and the persons of a particular community were clearly seen charged up.

"They were making very aggressive movements towards the scene of crime, having weapons in their hands.

Several persons can be seen exhorting the crowd in aggressive overtones.

It is also evident that they formed a mob which proceeded towards the scene of crime, may be under some plan or incitement.

"The video of witness Vishal Chaudhary depicts a very horrendous scene, wherein the aforesaid mobilized mob can be seen in large number from Chand Bagh Mazaar till near Khajuri Chowk and at around 1.

00 PM when senior police officers as well as other police officials were trying to control the protestors not to block the main Wazirabad Road, then the mob became violent," it said.

It further said it was clearly evident that the protestors, organizers, motivated persons in the mob and certain unscrupulous elements had surrounded the scene of crime and they appeared to be fully equipped with rioting material like stones, sticks, sharp-edged weapons and other sort of raw weapons.

"Even burqa-clad women are clearly seen attacking the police party with sticks and other material in their hands and they clearly appeared to be charged up. All this prima facie indicates that everything was being done under a well-hatched conspiracy, the common object whereof was to cause blockade of the main Wazirabad Road and if resisted by the police, then to go to any extent to liquidate them by use of force," the court said.

It, however, clarified that anything stated in the order should not be construed as expressing any opinion on the final merits of the case, as the case is at "pre-cognizance/pre-committal stage".

During the hearing, Pracha claimed that Arif has been wrongly and maliciously implicated in the matter by the investigating agency just because he belongs to a particular community.

Pracha further alleged that the investigation in the matter has not been conducted in an impartial and fair manner and persons belonging to a particular community have been falsely roped in by the investigating agency.

There was no material on record which could show the nexus of Arif with either the other accused persons or so called conspirators/protestors/organizers/rioters, Arif's counsel argued.

Prasad opposed the bail plea saying the resident of Chand Bagh area, who was present at the protest site during riots on February 24.

The public prosecutor further played CCTV footage and claimed that Arif can be seen looking at it in a suspicious manner after hiding a stick in a locked house.

He further submitted that the CCTV footage taken into possession in the matter was being analyzed and further new facts were getting surfaced.

Communal clashes had broken out in northeast Delhi on February 24 after violence between citizenship law supporters and protesters spiralled out of control leaving at least 53 people dead and around 200 injured.
A teacher at Germantown Academy initiated a sexual relationship with a student in 2014, during the victim's junior year, according to investigators in Montgomery County. Read more

A former teacher at Germantown Academy faces criminal charges after a woman reported to investigators in Montgomery County that he coerced her into a sexual relationship during her junior year at the elite suburban school.

Michael Cheatle, 37, was arraigned late Wednesday on institutional sexual assault, unlawful contact with a minor, endangering the welfare of a child, and related offenses, according to court records. He was released on $100,000 unsecured bail, and ordered by Magisterial District Judge Deborah A. Lukens to have no contact with the woman.

Cheatles attorney, Paul Mallis, said Thursday that the Chester Springs resident vehemently denies these allegations.

Were saddened and disheartened that hes in this position, Mallis said. As soon as we learned these allegations were made, we surrendered on the warrant without any incident and we look forward to our day in court.

The woman, who is now 23, contacted county detectives in July, telling them that Cheatle initiated an 18-month sexual relationship with her in 2014, his first year as a teacher at Germantown Academy, according to the affidavit of probable cause for his arrest. At the time, she was 17.

Their relationship lasted through the summer after the former students junior year, authorities said, and included several instances of sexual activity, both on and off the campus of Germantown Academy in Fort Washington.

In 2018 and 2019, Cheatle corresponded with the woman, apologizing for the wrongness and recklessness of his actions, according to emails and text messages reviewed by detectives.

For the last time, Im so deeply sorry, Cheatle wrote in one message from June 2019, according to the affidavit. I [may] never make it up to you but Ill try to be better than I was, and Ill never forget how important my influence can be in a young persons life. Ill do everything I can to honor that responsibility.

Within that correspondence, the woman criticized Cheatle for telling a group of students that his wife was pregnant, while ignoring the emotionally, and physically intimate relationship they were engaged in.

During a subsequent interview with detectives, Cheatle showed them tattoos on his chest that his accuser had been able to describe in detail, saying she had seen them during their sexual encounters, the affidavit said.

Administrators at Germantown Academy told investigators Cheatle called them on Sept. 1, shortly after his interview with detectives, and announced his resignation.

In a statement Thursday, administrators at the school said Cheatle has been barred from the campus and from contacting students, both current and former. They said they will continue to assist prosecutors in their investigation and commended the former student for coming forward.

Cheatle is scheduled to appear for a preliminary hearing in the case Oct. 14.
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A student has discovered that one of America's most celebrated artists copied many of his earlier works from other paintings.

Louis Shadwick, researching a doctorate on Edward Hopper at the Courtauld Institute in London, found the great realist painter's works were strikingly similar to others.

His discovery is leading to a reassessment of the celebrated artist who died aged 84 in 1967 and whose painting Nighthawks is one of the most famous artworks in America.

A British student has discovered that one of America's most celebrated artists copied many of his earlier works. Pictured is Edward Hopper's Ships from 1898

Hopper's early oil painting appears to be a direct replica of a painting by Edward Moran, A Marine, created more than a decade earlier

The artist from New York painted Church and Landscape (pictured) in 1897 which was believed until now to be a complete original

But Louis Shadwick, a student at the Courtauld Institute of art in London, discovered a previous artwork (pictured), a Victorian painted porcelain plaque, which itself was based on an earlier painting

Hopper (pictured) is recognized among Jackson Pollock and Andy Warhol among one of the most influential artists of the 20th century,

Edward Hopper: The artist who captured the real America Edward Hopper was born to a middle-class baptist family in 1882 in Nyack, New York. He was well-read and took an early interest in art, depicting himself in self-portraits as a tall, gangling and awkward young man. He studied at the New York School of Art and Design where he honed his oil painting skills and modeled his style on the French impressionists Degas and Manet. Hopper initially struggled to find his own style and spent many years after college failing to make much of a dent in the art world. His fortunes changed after meeting his wife, fellow artist Josephine Nivison, who helped admit a number of his paintings to the Brooklyn Museum in 1923. Critics raved about his work and from then on, he was one of the most sought-after artists in the US, with museums paying thousands for his paintings. He produced many pieces during the 1930s and 1940s and was paid handsomely, allowing him to take a more leisurely approach later in life before his death in 1967. Much of Hopper's art depicted everyday life in America, focusing on the solitude of the individual and how they react with their environment. In the following decades, artists such as Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein became known for their bold and bombastic creations, with consumerism, action and American culture at the forefront. But Hopper's work was more restrained, often showing still, desolate scenes, sparsely populated with people going about their lives. His was a very real form of realism, showing the city as an often isolating place. The painter had a huge influence on art, not only among those that cite him as an inspiration including Mark Rothko and Willem de Koonig, but also in the artistic movement that turned against his style. Hopper has also featured heavily in popular culture, inspiring the iconic house in Alfred Hitchcock's Psycho and Terrence Malick's Days of Heaven. Nighthawks, Hopper's most famous work, was cited by Ridley Scott as an inspiration for Blade Runner, and it has also featured in many songs, poems and parodies. Advertisement

Mr Shadwick, 30, has so far discovered four of Hopper's early oil paintings from the 1890s are reproductions of pre-existing works.

Two are copies of paintings from a magazine for amateur artists published in the years before Hopper's paintings, Mr Shadwick found.

The magazine even came with detailed instructions for how to copy the images, according to The New York Times.

Hopper, who is recognized among Jackson Pollock and Andy Warhol among one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, famously said: 'The only real influence I've ever had was myself.'

This summer, Mr Shadwick was investigating what impact Tonalist painter Bruce Crane might have had on Hopper's early works.

Then, in what he describes as his 'eureka moment', the student found an image of Crane's A Winter Sunset on Google from 1890, which was an almost perfect match for Hopper's Old Ice Pond at Nyack, dated around 1897.

The paintings are similarly constructed featuring a winter landscape and a bright streak of light behind a house.

Hopper's painting is currently for sale at a gallery with a price estimate of $375,000 but the new evidence could affect its value to potential buyers.

Scholars previously believed Hopper's early oil paintings showed his childhood home in Nyack, New York, and the self-trained painter's precocious skills and developing original style.

But Mr Shadwick said: 'Both these things are not true  none of the oils are of Nyack, and Hopper had a middling talent for oil painting, until he went to art school.'

The PhD student also found that the earliest known Hopper oil painting, Rowboat in a Rocky Cove from 1895, is a replica of a watercolor by an unknown artist published in the Art Interchange in 1891.

Meanwhile, Hopper's Ships from 1898 was a copy of Edward Moran's A Marine from more than a decade earlier, and his Church and Landscape from 1897 was a replica of a Victorian painted porcelain plaque, which itself was based on an earlier painting.

While many painters start off by copying existing works, experts say the discoveries undermine the idea of Hopper being a painting prodigy producing innovative art.

Kim Conaty, curator of drawings and prints at the Whitney Museum in New York, said: 'It cuts straight through the widely held perception of Hopper as an American original.'

Mr Shadwick said there was no shame in the copying and Hopper had not intended the paintings to be sold or made public.

Hopper's most expensive painting, Chop Suey, was sold in 2018 for $91.9million.

He died in 1967 having left a huge imprint on art, not only in the US but around the world.

The realist painter's work Nighthawks (pictured) is one of the most famous artworks in America

Mr Shadwick has so far discovered four of Hopper's early oil paintings from the 1890s are reproductions of pre-existing works. Pictured: Lighthouse at Two Lights by Hopper, 1929
On the Frontline Against China, the US Coast Guard Is Taking on Missions the US Navy Can't Do

Competition with China has drawn more Pentagon resources to the Pacific, but the most visible U.S. military presence there...
James Cameron, Clint Eastwood, Directors Guild of America, and other celebrities and organisations, in a letter to Congress, urges them to redirect unallocated funds from CARES Act to revive small and medium-scale theatres in the US.

Several noted filmmakers such as Christopher Nolan, Martin Scorsese, James Cameron, Sofia Coppola, Clint Eastwood, along with several other bodies have signed a letter to Congress, urging them to save the dying small and medium movie theatres across the US.

The letter asks Congress to allocate funds to revive one of the hardest-hit industries. Other signatories include the Directors Guild of America, the National Association of Theatre Owners and the Motion Picture Association.

The letter sent to House and Senate leaders (Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy) says Movie theatres are in dire straits, and we urge you to redirect unallocated funds from the CARES Act to proposals that help businesses that have suffered the steepest revenue drops due to the pandemic, or to enact new proposals.

The letter warns that without any solution specifically designed for their circumstances, the movie theatres will not be able to survive the hit of the pandemic. The note has pointed out some grim figures as well that suggests that 93 percent of the movie theatre companies had year-over-year (YOY) losses of more than 75 percent in the second quarter of the year 2020. The letter goes on to say that if the present condition continues, 69 percent of small and medium movie theatres will be forced to file for bankruptcy or to close permanently, and 66 percent of theatre jobs will be lost.

This is not limited to a probable future scenario as various theatre chains were reported to have shortened their operating hours and closed midweek in some venues in their bid to trim costs. This was a direct effect of Hollywood postponing big releases like Wonder Woman 1984 and Black Widow to 2021.

The report has added that the three biggest chains of the US, namely AMC Theatres, Regal Cinemas and Cinemark, have been affected gravely too with a Cinemark spokesman saying that only 75 percent of their theatres are open. Other chains have begun to limit the number of showtimes and close the halls on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Trinamool Congress MP and actress Nusrat Jahan has requested additional security cover for her, citing death threats on social media. The threats came after she posted a video in which she appears as the Goddess Durga, reported PTI. She is currently in London, shooting for a Bengali Film.

The controversial photos and video were posted on her Twitter and Instagram accounts on September 17. They show her role-playing the Hindu Goddess Durga, carrying her famous trident. The photo accumulated more than a thousand comments.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nusrat (@nusratchirps) on Sep 19, 2020 at 11:48pm PDT

While a small number of fans appreciated her look or attire, the majority of the comment section was filled with hate comments. According to the Hindustan Times, a majority of these comments were from Bangladeshi citizens.

While its common for one community to go against another, here Hindus and Muslims were united in their hatred. She got criticism from Muslims for being muslim er name colonko (a blotch in the name of Muslims) to multiple calling her kafir (faithless) or appeasing to Hindus for vote bank. Most Hindu people accused her of defiling their religion, calling her abuses.

The photograph has nearly 70,000 likes. Few simply trolled and made fun of her for doing all this for Instagram publicity. Another comment, originally posted in Bengali, seemed more threatening than the rest. You will not be able to save yourself. Your God on Earth will not be able to save you. Youll realise your fault after youve died. There will not any excuses for you, it read.

As of now, no official comment has been made by the TMC leaders or police officials. Apparently, Jahan has taken up the matter with the West Bengal government and Ministry of External Affairs. She seeks additional security, apart from the standard security cover at her disposal as a member of the Parliament. The security request was to cover her shoot in London which will likely run till October, PTI reported.
ROME: The U.S. and the Vatican butted heads over China on Thursday as the Holy See chafed at U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeos public call to take a harsher stance against Chinese restrictions on religious freedom.

The State Department sought to play down the differences, but tensions were palpable during Pompeos two-day visit to Rome. The disagreement on China comes as the Vatican is heading into delicate negotiations with Beijing to extend its controversial 2018 accord over bishop nominations.

Pompeo spent about 45 minutes Thursday meeting in the Apostolic Palace with his Vatican counterpart, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, and the Vatican foreign minister, Archbishop Paul Gallagher.

Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said that during the meeting, both sides presented their respective positions about relations with China in a climate of respect, openness and cordiality.

The State Departments deputy spokesperson, Cale Brown, said the men discussed the importance of defending religious freedom and other human rights issues, and expressed particular concern about the situation in China.

Pope Francis declined to meet with Pompeo, to avoid any suggestion of political favoritism ahead of Novembers U.S. presidential election, Vatican officials said. Pompeo met with Francis last October, and it would have been unusual for him to have gotten another audience so soon, even without an impending election.

Pompeos visit got off on a sour note, as far as the Vatican was concerned, after he penned an essay last month for a conservative magazine suggesting that the Vatican had compromised its moral authority by signing the 2018 nominations agreement with Beijing.

His article greatly irritated the Vatican, which saw it as interference in the churchs internal affairs for the sake of scoring domestic political points.

A State Department official, speaking to reporters on condition of anonymity, sought to tamp down the tensions Thursday, noting that the U.S. has good relations with many Catholic institutions, including charities.

Another U.S. official, similarly speaking on condition of anonymity due to being unauthorized to discuss the private conversation, also sought to smooth over the dispute, saying the Holy See had a history of promoting religious freedom.

The Vaticans playing the long game when it comes to human rights and religious liberty, the official said.

Tactical agreements and tactical differences will come and go, the official continued. But the broader strategic vision, the United States and the Vatican, are in lockstep and have been for four generations and will be for generations to come.

Pompeo was in Rome to participate in a conference on religious freedom organized by the U.S. Embassy to the Holy See, and to meet with Italian and Vatican officials.

During the Wednesday conference, Pompeo urged the Holy See to join the United States in denouncing violations of religious freedom in China, part of the broader U.S. campaign to criticize Beijings crackdown on religious and ethnic minorities.

Gallagher, the Vatican foreign minister, was in the audience at the time of his speech and didnt refer at all to China in his remarks.

The Vatican is seeking to extend its accord with China, which envisages a process of dialogue in selecting bishops. It signed it in 2018 in hopes it would help unite Chinas Catholics, who for seven decades have been split between those belonging to an official, state-sanctioned church and an underground church loyal to Rome.

The Vatican has defended the accord against criticism the pope sold out the underground faithful, saying the deal was necessary to prevent an even worse schism in the Chinese church.

The Vatican has rarely, if ever called out China for its crackdown on religious and ethnic minorities and other human rights abuses, and it has stayed mum during months of protests in Hong Kong. It similarly rarely criticizes Russia, for fear of harming relations with the Russian Orthodox Church.

Pompeo started his day Thursday visiting the Rome-based SantEgidio Community, a Catholic charity active in caring for refugees in Italy and providing HIV-AIDS care in Africa. Arriving at SantEgidios headquarters, Pompeo praised the groups efforts as the Lords work.

___

AP writer Matthew Lee contributed from Washington.

Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor
Drive by Westchester in western Miami-Dade County, a predominately Hispanic area, on any weekend and numerous cars and trucks sporting Vote for Trump or Trump 2020 flags can be seen.

This is a visible sign of Cuban American support for the president. In a county that is predominately democratic, the support of the Cuban American electorate, which is traditionally Republican, could upend former Vice President Joeseph Bidens chances at winning Florida and the presidency.

In a recent poll of 500 likely voters by Bendixen and Amandi International, a firm led by Fernand Amandi, a lecturer in the Department of Political Science at the University of Miami, 73 percent of Cuban Americans polled had a favorable opinion of President Donald J. Trump.

Biden needs to win Miami-Dade County overwhelmingly to take Florida, said Amandi. There are not enough votes that Biden can make up in other counties of the state to win the state if he underperforms badly in Miami-Dade.

Why do Cuban Americans support Trump?

Cubans generally like people who are forceful and aggressive and convey strength and for better or for worse, Trump does convey those things, said Amandi.

Many see Trump as the stereotype of the caudillo, or strongman, who has used his pulpit to speak out strongly against the communist regimes of Cuba and Venezuela, he said.

The perception is that he is an anti-communist and that he will stand up against communist regimes in a way that Obama was not perceived to have done, said Michael Touchton, associate professor of political science. Many remember that Obama renewed diplomatic relations with Cuba and removed the wet foot-dry foot policy, which facilitated entry to the United States for Cuban refugees.

Republicans have also successfully labeled democrats as socialists, which is a word that brings back memories to many Cuban exiles of Fidel Castros Cuba and Nicolas Maduros Venezuela, said Touchton. He said the label has stuck because many associate democrats with people like Bernie Sanders, who defines himself as a democratic socialist and supports progressive causes like universal healthcare and universal free education.

This does not mean that progressive democrats support socialism like the Cuban government and the former USSR during the Cold War, he said. But for those families who lived in socialist dictatorships or who are leaving those governments nowlike the Venezuelansthey see the label as a logical step.

Taking advantage of those sentiments, Trump has also been campaigning in Miami almost nonstop since his 2016 victorygaining the support of Cuban exile groups such as the Brigade 2506, veterans of the Bay of Pigs invasion. Only two weeks ago, the president invited members of the group to the White House for a special event.

The president also has imposed sanctions on the island. On Sept. 23, he announced sanctions against Cuba that prohibited visiting U.S. residents from residing at Cuban government-owned properties and importing Cuban cigars and liquor. These were added to other 2019 sanctions that limited travel to the island.

Ironically, on the same week as the latest sanctions, a report in the Spanish-language paper El Nuevo Herald revealed that Trump tried to register the Trump trademark in Cuba in 2008 in an effort to invest in real estate with hopes of building hotels and even casinos on the island.

Trump associates continued to travel to the island as late as 2013 to find business deals even though there is an embargo against Cuba.

Will this attempt at rapprochement with the Cuban government affect Trump in this election?

It is doubtful that new information about Trump will impact his supporters, said Amandi. Cuban Americans in Miami have embraced Trump as one of their own. There is a lot of rationalization and apologizing for behavior that for nearly anyone else would be abhorrent or a game ender.
When President Trump called for his supporters to flood the polls and look for voter fraud Nov. 3, he raised the specter of an election day plagued by confrontation and chaos.

Saying without evidence that the election is rigged and that Democrats will cheat in an attempt to defeat him, Trump urged supporters to go into the polls and watch very carefully, because thats what has to happen.

Speaking Tuesday night at the presidential debate in Cleveland, Trump refused to say he would ask his followers to stay calm and not engage in unrest if the vote didnt go his way.

If I see tens of thousands of ballots being manipulated, I cant go along with that, Trump said.

He had already suggested as much, even before the debate. Last week, Trump told a reporter that were going to have to see what happens when asked if he would commit to a peaceful transition of power if he lost to Democratic challenger Joe Biden.

His campaign has joined in the call for election day monitoring. In a plea on Facebook and Twitter, Donald Trump Jr. said that the radical left is trying to steal the election from his father.

We need every able-bodied man and woman to join Army for Trumps election security operation, he said. We need you to help us watch them, not just on Election Day but also during early voting and at the counting boards.

While most states, including California, allow a limited number of partisan poll watchers, there are rules, said Sam Mahood, a spokesman for California Secretary of State Alex Padilla.

While citizens can observe in-person voting, state law prohibits voter intimidation or security guards being stationed at polling locations, he said. Voters have a right to cast their ballots free from intimidation.

There have already been problems elsewhere in the country. On Sept. 19, Trump supporters held a demonstration outside an early voting site in Fairfax, Va., chanting, waving Trump flags and forcing people to go around them if they wanted to vote.

Although the event didnt violate any rules on electioneering near a polling place, it raised concerns that there could be much more to come on election day  especially after a 1982 court consent decree barring Republicans nationally from activities that could intimidate Democratic voters was lifted earlier this year.

The decree stemmed from the 1981 race for governor in New Jersey, when the Republican Party deployed about 200 people, many of them armed and uniformed off-duty law enforcement officers and security guards, as a National Ballot Security Task Force. There were reports that they confronted Black people and otherwise suppressed the vote.

With that order gone, Democrats worry that voter intimidation efforts could rise. They note that the Republican National Committee announced last spring that it planned to recruit as many as 50,000 operatives to go to the polls in November and watch for fraud.

The California Republican Party is also recruiting and deploying poll watchers.

Its not a partisan activity, said Bryan Watkins, the state political director. We see it as a sober exercise in democratic functions.

The Republican National Committees chief counsel, Justin Riemer, told National Public Radio on Tuesday that the Democrats would say that we are there to suppress the vote. That is absolutely not the case.

But the worries continue.

I am somewhat concerned about the Trump campaign and the RNC engaging in poll watching activities that could intimidate minority voters, said Rick Hasen, an election law expert at UC Irvine law school.

I have greater concerns about rogue Trump supporters taking matters into their own hands and threatening violence and generally deterring voters, he said.

On Wednesday, Gov. Gavin Newsom and 10 other Democratic governors issued a joint statement on threats to American democracy.

There is absolutely no excuse for promoting the intimidation or harassment of voters, the governors said. These are all blatant attempts to deny our constituents the right to have their voices heard, as guaranteed in the U.S. Constitution, and to know the will of the people will be carried out.

On Monday, Padilla sent a reminder to county election officials that electioneering and other political activities cant occur within 100 feet of the entrance to a polling place. That includes displaying political signs, broadcasting political messages or even wearing buttons, hats and T-shirts with a message related to issues on the ballot.

Electioneering activity is always a concern, but not a serious one, said John Arntz, San Franciscos election director.

Theres some in every election, but I cant think of a time when it involved a federal office, he said. Its usually a local measure, and nine times out of 10 the campaigns and the people cooperate when we ask them to stop.

It might not be as easy this year.

Certainly with the environment building up for this election, we have to think about how to deal with it, Arntz said.

In Orange County, where the Republican Party and the Trump campaign are stronger and better organized than in much of the rest of the state, plans already are being made for dealing with any problems at the polling places.

Weve never had systemic or widespread problems, and they arent a big concern this year, either, said Neal Kelley, the county registrar and former president of state and national associations of election officials. But weve got a pretty robust plan to respond. Were not just going to sit back and watch.

Trump and other Republicans have shown no signs of backing away from challenging the election results, both as they come in and as they are being counted.

With two more presidential debates scheduled and a full slate of rallies ahead, the president can be expected to make his rigged argument again and again.

A free and fair election requires unfettered access to the polling place, and Trumps comments undermine that freedom, said Hasen, the UC Irvine legal expert. Election officials everywhere need to be prepared to ensure free access to the polls.

John Wildermuth is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jwildermuth@sfchronicle.com Twitter:@jfwildermuth
She's the queen of Halloween, hosting an over-the-top holiday soiree each year.

So Heidi Klum was happy to kick off her 2020 spooky season with a cheeky video shot from her bed and shared to Instagram on Thursday, October 1st.

The model-turned-TV personality, 47, told fans she'll be celebrating by sharing her favorite horror films all month, but in the caption the German beauty joked about the current fright-fest sweeping the US, teasing: 'I dont know if any of them will be as scary as the Debate was!'

Spooky season! Heidi Klum kicked off Halloween season with a silly in-bed selfie where she told fans she'll be sharing her favorite horror movies over the coming weeks

On Tuesday night President Donald Trump and Democratic Presidential candidate Joe Biden faced off in an ugly 90min debate moderated by Fox News' Chris Wallace

But Heidi's silly yet sexy video was nowhere near as anxiety-inducing as the political sparring.

In the clip, a topless Heidi relaxed in bed, pulling her soft sheets up over her bust.

While she teased a hint of cleavage, her gorgeous face was completely obscured by a Halloween-perfect filter.

The digital makeup was a nod to Mexico's Dia De Los Muertos, covering her face with faux calavera makeup while marigolds spilled from her forehead.

The real thing: In her caption the German beauty joked about the current fright-fest sweeping the US, teasing: 'I dont know if any of them will be as scary as the Debate was!'

At odds: She was referring to Tuesday night's event, when President Donald Trump and Democratic Presidential candidate Joe Biden faced off in an ugly 90min debate moderated by Fox News' Chris Wallace

Day of the dead: Her digital makeup was a nod to Mexico's Dia De Los Muertos, covering her face with faux calavera makeup while marigolds spilled from her forehead

IRL, Heidi looked like she'd added a wig of wild curls under a pointy witch hat.

In the video she explained her plan, folding her arms and telling followers: 'Well, Halloween will not be cancelled.'

'Up until then, I'm going to be right here in this bed watching my most favorite horror films.

'I'm just a little bit excited,' she went on while pointing her finger with a sinister grin on her face.

A classic: Klum is known for hosting a lavish Halloween party, complete with over-the-top costumes, every year. She's seen during Halloween 2013 above

Body works: She's never shied away from a wild costume, seen as a human without skin in 2011 left and a gory space alien in 2019 on the right

Klum is known for hosting a lavish Halloween party for the A-list set every year.

And she's never shied away from a wild costume.

In the past the star has gone as a gory space alien, elderly woman, Shrek's Princess Fiona, a human body stripped its skin to show only muscles, a prosthesis-enhanced Jessica Rabbit, and as a version of Michael Jackson's Thriller werewolf - among others.

It is yet to be seen if Heidi will be hosting an in-person party this year, or coming up with a COVID-safe strategy.
The Mullen Fire grew on Wednesday by another 11,000 acres and crossed into Colorado, prompting evacuations there, fire officials said.

The fire now stands at 108,000 acres, or roughly 161 square miles.

Until Wednesday, it's spread was limited to southern Wyoming. But shortly before 6 p.m., fire officials said it had burned into northern Colorado, according to a Facebook post on the Mullen Fire Information page.

Authorities suspected the fire would eventually spread into Colorado, but were surprised at the speed in which it did, said John Peterson, a spokesman for the fire effort.

"The fire probably moved four to six miles today and its into Colorado," he said.

Peterson said multiple factors are contributing to the speed of the fire's spread.

"First off, the fuel has to be there," he said. "This is a forest that has a lot of beetle kill and its dry as a bone. Then you have the winds."

The Larimer County Sheriff's Office issued a mandatory evacuation for the Roach and Hohnholz areas in the northwestern part of that county due to "immediate and imminent danger." Residents were advised to leave the area immediately.

Also Wednesday, the Wyoming Department of Transportation closed Wyoming Highway 230 from Riverside to the Colorado state line on the west side and from the Colorado border to Woods Landing on the east.

The Mullen Fire, which ignited Thursday in the Medicine Bow National Forest, has already prompted evacuation of several small forest communities west of Laramie. On Tuesday, an Albany County Sheriff's Office official said the fire had burned 29 homes and 31 outbuildings in the Lower Keystone, Lake Creek and Foxborough areas.

The fire has also forced the closure of a large swath of forest. It's been fueled by beetled-killed trees that started to die off in the late 1990s, said Incident Commander Michael Hayden.

Nearly 1,000 people are now working to contain the blaze.

"I'll be honest, we want more," he said during a Wednesday evening briefing. "We want more resources to go out there and protect structures, bridges .. and the forest overall."

Authorities said last week that the fire was human caused. They have not offered additional details.

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In his 2017 inauguration speech, President Trump shocked the world by promising to take on the Washington, D.C. establishment -- aka The Swamp -- and thereby return power to the people.

The Swamp denizens seated in the main dais behind Trump that day, Republican and Democrat alike, were not pleased, to put it mildly. In fact, they were so discombobulated by Trumps remarks that one of the biggest, meanest alligators in the whole bayou went on TV soon after and accidentally told the truth.

Referring to Trumps doubts about the trustworthiness of his intelligence agencies, fake-hair Chuck Schumer told fake-news Rachael Maddow, You take on the intelligence community -- they have six ways from Sunday of getting back at you! In retrospect, Schumers comment was right on.

The U.S. intelligence community, or Deep State if you prefer, found a lot more than six ways to undermine Trump, both before and after his election.

We saw Holy James Comey, the disgraced former head of the FBI, totally tank two investigations into Hillary Clinton, one looking into Clinton Foundation money-laundering and the other scrutinizing Hillarys illegal secret server. All you have to know about Comey, other than hes as dirty as he is tall, is that he penned Crooked Hillarys exoneration letter months before the supposed investigation ended, months before he even interviewed Clinton.

Americans were also treated to the fraudulent Russia Collusion scam, brought to us by the odious John Brennan of the CIA, Peter Strzok and Lisa Page -- a pair of horny toads in the FBI -- and the hissing, slithering serpents of the mainstream media. Through their efforts, Trump is a Russian agent! became the mantra of the Left, even though there was never any evidence for opening an investigation other than the phony, bought-and-paid-for Steele dossier.

Which brings us to one of the worst critters to ever roam the foul, fetid Swamp: Hillary Clinton. Clinton somehow managed to be both a wild boar (an Arkansas broadbeam as per Rush Limbaugh) and a deadly bore. So, who paid for all the lies, nonsense and innuendo in the Steele dossier? Yep, the shrill, waddling Arkansas broadbeam, thats who. Quelle surprise.

Yet another swamp creature, a wise-looking hoot owl named Robert Mueller, pretended to run a special counsel investigation into Trump, knowing from the very beginning he had no evidence -- none, nada, nihil -- and that the Steele dossier was utter crap. Later, when asked to explain himself before Congress, Mueller appeared to be quite senile and forgetful, making many observers wonder just who was running that illicit show. The jowly old hoot owl in a suit certainly wasnt.

Some of the most dangerous beasts in the marsh appear harmless, like, say, a baby bear. You might want to pet it but youll regret it. Federal judge Emmet Sullivan is such a creature, swaddled as he is in the soft black robes of judicial impartiality. But dont be fooled by Sullivans placid demeanor, folks, hes actually a fierce, cunning predator, and more than willing to target and kill his political enemies.

Enemies like General Mike Flynn, President Trumps short-lived national security advisor. Knowing full well that the Deep State tried to entrap Gen. Flynn, so much so that the prosecution has withdrawn all charges, Sullivan has nonetheless refused to drop the case, hoping that, come 2021, a different man in the White House will let the judge send an innocent man to prison.

Some swamp animals are communal and hunt in packs, like Alexander Vindman and his buddy, the Dont call me Eric Ciaramella whistleblower. Surely the softest Ranger that elite group ever produced, Col. Vindman and the Pajama Boy Who Mustnt Be Named conspired to remove President Trump via impeachment. They were aided in this pathetic spectacle by a lying, bug-eyed loon, U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff. This shady trio produced the most forgettable impeachment in history, such a weak and perfunctory exercise that its hard to believe the impeachment happened a mere seven months ago.

Trump supporters and people with even a vestigial sense of decency have been waiting patiently for the Deep Staters who targeted our President to get their just due. Almost every day a damning new bit of evidence comes out, showing the swamp creatures carefully planning their coups, sometimes in their very own words. Like Peter Strzok telling Lisa Page not to stress over Trump possibly getting elected, Dont worry, well stop him.

Donald Trump has done his level best to seek justice in the dank D.C. quagmire. In addition to House and Senate committees, hes tasked Attorney General William Barr and federal prosecutor John Durham with investigating the numerous ways the intelligence community  aided by the lying media, every elected Democrat and lots of GOP pols  tried to get back at the President.

But the Swamp is deep, wide and treacherous. Thanks to unelected federal bureaucrats, the Durham investigation has been hindered at every turn. Getting documents from the FBI, CIA, DoJ and State Department has been harder than pulling teeth on a unsedated lion. Its become increasingly clear that U.S. voters wont learn the full extent of Deep State treason until after the election.

And should Joe Biden, the Democrats dead-man-walking candidate, somehow win in November, we wont learn anything. The entire Barr/Durham/Jennings investigation will go down the memory hole, never to be seen or heard of again.

And the Swamp will rejoice.

Dont let the dirty, stinking Deep State win. Vote Trump in November.

Image: Pxhere
School districts across the US are confronting a wave of opposition from teachers and other education staff as they continue to herd students back to campus amid the raging COVID-19 pandemic. According to an independent K-12 aggregate, the COVID Monitor, which tracks cases from school and district reports and verified public reports, there have been 31,584 confirmed cases among staff and students as of September 27. In addition to protests and work actions, states across the US are facing severe teacher and substitute vacancies. Teacher resignations, absences, and walkouts, in addition to increasing outbreaks among students and staff, are forcing schools to switch back to remote learning, at least temporarily.

Arkansas | Cases: 82,755; Deaths: 1,350

In a brave act of protest, at least 166 teachers in Little Rock, Arkansas refused to go to school for in-person learning on Monday. The teachers, under the representation of the Little Rock Education Association (LREA), are demanding that the school district switch to remote-only instruction, citing safety concerns, inadequate cleaning, inconsistent case reporting, and increasing COVID-19 cases in the district and statewide.

The union has since backed off the demand, after blowback from the school district. Sixty-nine of the teachers who had supported the action received notice they would be disciplined.

In the district, there have been thirty-three positive cases among students and six among staff since September 21. Another 190 have been quarantined. Two schools have had to move to online-only instruction temporarily due to cases. Statewide, there are 717 active cases in K-12 schools and 36 schools are under modified instruction due to the pandemic, of which 26 only began instruction last week.

California | Cases: 818,000; Deaths: 15,971

Educators in at least four Orange County unified school districtsNewport-Mesa, Irvine, Saddleback Valley, and Los Alamitosare standing firm in opposition to returning to work under unsafe conditions, defying their own unions recommendations with Los Alamitos teachers who were set to strike September 29. Very little information has been published as to the status of the strike.

In advance of the prospect of teachers not showing up on Tuesday, the board passed an emergency resolution authorizing the hiring of substitute teachers. The board already had 20-30 substitutes in-house including counselors, administrators and assistant principals from the districts schools.

Ten out of 29 school districts in the county have either recently reopened or are reopening this week following Democratic California Governor Gavin Newsoms Blueprint for a Safer Economy order as well as clearance from local authorities.

Colorado | Cases: 70,458; Deaths: 2,058

School districts in Colorado are facing a massive substitute teacher shortage. In Alamosa School District, the substitute pool has decreased by half, down to only 25 teachers. Denver Public Schools, the largest district in the stage, has also lost about half of its substitute pool due to health and safety concerns.

The Colorado Sun reports that one district has resorted to asking parents to volunteer as substitutes. Other districts are turning to their own teachers, staff and administrators. Alamosa is offering teachers a paltry $25 dollars to forego their planning periods to cover other classrooms. Many schools worry that a single coronavirus case could lead to a temporary closure.

Georgia | Cases: 300,000; Deaths: 6,836

On September 17, teachers in Fulton County used their lunch break to protest the districts plan to return to in-person instruction. Around thirty teachers at Riverwood High School walked out during lunch. There are disparate reports that dozens or more teachers at multiple other schools in the district also walked out in solidarity. French teacher Brett Edeker, referring to the illegality of collective bargaining and strikes by public employees in Georgia, said, Were trying to play within the rules of our job, were fearful of retaliation, so were trying to do it at a time that doesnt impact students.

A survey conducted by the district found that 83 percent of teachers agreed or strongly agreed that schools should remain online for the foreseeable future; 72 percent of staff felt the same. In a letter to employees of the district, Superintendent David Dude acknowledged the overwhelming lack of support by teachers and staff for a return to in-person instruction but suggested this was due to an erroneous lack of trust in the districts consideration of the current data about the virus.

Addressing the concern among teachers, consistently voiced by educators across the country, that concurrent teaching (of botch in-person and online instruction) would be extremely taxing, Dude callously said, Of course we can find examples where it is not going well, but since when do we focus on the poor exemplars?

Hawaii | Cases: 12,436; Deaths: 133

Already facing a teaching shortage before the pandemic, the situation in Hawaii as accelerated dramatically. Dozens of teachers are taking medical leave this year. In a Facebook group dedicated to safe school re-openings, teachers have commented on an advertisement for teaching positions in Hawaii. One comment reports that the Board of Education and the Department of Education have begun hiring high school graduates to be substitute teachers. Another reads that the ad should include Warning: full disclosure of coronavirus occurrences may or may not be given in your district. And you must bring your own gloves.

Dayna Inouye, 49, a school clerk at Dole Middle School in Hawaii, died last Wednesday of the virus. Inouye is from a family of school teachers. She leaves behind three daughters and her partner of 27 years.

Nearly 200 of Inouyes fellow teachers and educators spoke out on the conditions they face at schools at a local school board meeting held online and partially made public in the aftermath of Inouyes tragic death. More than 100 gave written testimony, which has been compiled by the HSTA and is publicly available.

Kansas | Cases: 59,921; Deaths: 650

Baldwin City United School District (USD 348) is facing a teacher and substitute shortage so severe that it may have to shut down as a result. Many staff members are quarantined but the district only has four substitutes remaining. Superintendent Paul Dorathy sent a message to parents and staff explaining that substitutes are not taking jobs right now because they are, concerned for their own health. He added that in addition to substitutes, they are shortages with cooks, secretaries, and bus drivers.

Louisiana | Cases: 167,000; Deaths: 5,490

East Baton Rouge Parish Association of Educators is calling for school employees to take next Monday off, in order to prompt better cleaning and sanitizing of school buildings. In a survey they conducted, 82 percent of teachers supported the call for a day of action. Announcing the planned action on Facebook, local union president Anita Augustus declared, We do not like to take a day of action, because it inconveniences our parents but we do not want a single child or adult to get COVID because things were not sanitized.

This action will coincide with the district moving elementary students from two to five days per week in-person instruction. No matter what cleaning protocols the district ends up committing to, students and staff will be at risk for contracting the disease if they are in classrooms.

Last week, hundreds of teachers in Livingston Parish participated in a similar day of action to protest unsafe conditions. Neither the statewide Louisiana Federation of Teachers nor the Louisiana Association of Educators worked to combine these two struggles.

Maryland | Cases: 125,000; Deaths 3,946

Carroll County Public Schools officials have stated that nearly 300 teachers have put in leave requests ahead of the districts plans to resume in-person instruction on October 19. The district is scrambling to hire substitute teachers and are also assigning other employees to classrooms as well as hiring temporary workers.

Mississippi | Cases: 97,638; Deaths: 2,957

Long Beach Middle School in Long Beach, Mississippi is in quarantine after more than a dozen students contracted the virus. The entire student body will be quarantined for two weeks after 35 percent either tested positive or were exposed according to a statement by health officials. This follows the closure of Biloxi High School in late August due to similar circumstances.

As of September 25, there have been 2,776 confirmed cases of the virus in K-12 schools, 1,836 among students, and 940 among staff. There have been over 20,000 quarantined as a result. These numbers are incomplete because the Mississippi Department of Health is only collecting infection data from between 720 and 861 of the 1,063 schools in the state.

New York | Cases: 248,000; Deaths: 23,814

Students in New York City returned to campus in the largest school district in the country this week. Rank-and-file teachers at Hunter College Campus Schools, an elite K-12 school administered by the City University of New York, voted to authorize a strike to protest unsafe conditions on Tuesday. The school has very few windows and a history of ventilation problems.

The Professional Staff Congress (PSC), the local union, quickly stepped in to prevent this independent action by the teachers. After the strike was voted on, CUNY agreed to allow an independent inspection of the building, which included, according to a spokesperson, representatives from the PSC Chapter, CUNY Central Office, Hunter College and a health and safety specialist from the American Federation of Teachers. They corroborated what we have been saying all along: That the school is ready and safe for occupancy.

PSC sent teachers back to the classroom on Tuesday, declaring a win for the minor concessions made by CUNY including regular COVID testing and the installation of HEPA air filters in the windowless classrooms.

North Carolina | Cases: 209,000; Deaths: 3,511

Two schools in Cumberland County, NC will be closed for deep-cleaning after multiple staff tested positive for the virus. Despite all students learning remotely, staff and faculty have had to work on campus. District officials are seeking to place blame on the staff themselves, saying that they dont believe the virus was spread on campus. We know that employees, they often times over the weekend and throughout the week, they go other places. So, when they come back to the building, if they are positive, in many cases, depending on who they are around at the school building, they may have to be quarantined as well, a spokesperson for the school district said.

Texas | Cases: 781,000; Deaths: 15,994

Teachers at Austin Independent School District (AISD) in Austin, Texas made a pledge not to return to school on October 5, when students are scheduled to return to campus. Dozens of cars drove to the districts headquarters on September 26th to protest the reopening. An anonymous teaching assistant told local news KXAN, I am curious to see how they will continue working without a lot of the staff and teachers. I am seeing a lot of resignations. I am seeing good teachers leaving because they are not giving these choices.

With less than a week before students return, the district is also behind on processing medical accommodation requests from teachers and staff who want to continue working from home. As of Monday, there were 472 pending requests.

At the same time, the AISDs Chief Business Officer Larry Thorn stated at Mondays school board meeting that enrollment was down by 5,000, which could lead to the district laying off around 230 teachers and staff.

Texas has confirmed 3,720 cases among K-12 students and 3,053 among staff since schools reopened in August.

Wisconsin | Cases: 127,000; Deaths: 1,312

Staffing shortages caused by the pandemic have led Adams Elementary School in Janesville to move to fully virtual instruction until October 9. The school does not have enough staff for in-person instruction after multiple teachers were quarantined.

This follows an independent sickout by teachers in Kenosha earlier this month that forced seven schools in the district to switch to remote-only instruction for a week. Over 270 teachers called in sick, but the local union, Kenosha Education Association, refused to voice support for the action.

While the number of cases in K-12 schools is unclear, the Wisconsin Department of Health has reported that 206 schools, universities or daycares have had two or more confirmed cases. USA Today reported that since Wisconsin students returned to K-12 and college classrooms in late August and early September, the state has repeatedly set new single-day and seven-day records for confirmed cases and the percent of new tests that have come back positive for COVID-19.

For a unified fight of teachers, students, and education workers!

There is a powerful will to fight against the homicidal drive to reopen for in-person learning among educators, and other school staff. What is missing is a unified, conscious political orientation of these struggles against this bi-partisan policy of the ruling class. The teachers unions, when they get involved, have acted only to isolate and dissipate protests, rather than combine and coordinate them on a nation-wide scale.

The National Educators Rank-and-File Committee calls on all educators, parents, and students to join our fight to unite these struggles independent of the unions and both big business parties. Form local, independent committees to prepare for a nationwide mobilization to halt and reverse the unsafe reopening and to defend public education more broadly.

We urge readers to take up the fight to save lives by contacting us to begin forming a committee in your district or state.
On Sept. 30, the provisions of the New York Sick Leave Law (NYSSL) took effect. Many qualifying employers in New York City already had adjusted policies and procedures to accommodate mandated, paid sick leave. Now all private employers in New York will need to implement the new sick leave law.

All employees began accruing sick leave as of Sept. 30; however, employees may not begin using the accrued sick leave until Jan. 1, 2021. The new sick leave covers all employees. Full time, part time seasonal, per-diem and student workers will be eligible for sick leave. The law has different provisions depending on employer size, and size is based on the previous year.

 For employers with four or fewer employees in any calendar year, each employee shall be provided with up to 40 hours of unpaid sick leave in each calendar year. This small employer must allow the time off, but the time is not paid.

 However, if the employer that employs four or fewer employees has a net income of greater than $1 million, the employer must allow 40 hours of paid sick leave in each calendar year. This employer may need to revise their sick leave policy from unpaid to paid as revenues begin to grow.

 For employers with between five and 99 employees in any calendar year, each employee shall be provided with up to 40 hours of paid sick leave in each calendar year. This is where many private employers land. Policies and procedures will require a review and updates.

 For employers with 100 or more employees in any calendar year, each employee shall be provided with up to 56 hours of paid sick leave each calendar year. Similar to the small business above, policies and procedures will need to be reviewed and updated.

 The three most import aspects of NYSSL are counting employees' sick time earned, the carryover provision and usage of sick leave.

NYSSL can be accrued or allotted. If using the accrual method, the accrual begins Sept. 30 at a rate of one hour per 30 hours worked, up to a maximum of 40 or 56 hours depending on the employer size. Accrual method works well for employers with inherent turnover, part time, seasonal, per-diem and student workers.

The first challenge is having a reliable method of collecting hours worked. A good time and attendance system must be able to log in one hour of sick leave for every 30 hours worked by all employees and stop the accrual when the maximum is reached.

The employer can also simply allot a specific amount of paid sick leave starting Jan. 1, 2021, as long as it meets or exceeds the maximums in the law.

Also, many employers only provide sick leave allotments to full-time employees. They will need to develop allotments for part time, seasonal, per-diem and student workers and it may be too difficult to anticipate how many hours will be worked.

The second challenge is the carryover provision of NYSSL. Until now, employers were not mandated to carry over any form of paid time off. Now, employers must allow the carryover of NYSSL at the end of the year. The only silver lining is the carryover cannot exceed the annual NYSSL limits.

The carryover provision is where employers should expect the most questions. If the employee does not take any sick days in the year, the maximum carry overs to the new year. They would not be able to accrue any more NYSSL because they are already at the max. Be prepared for questions.

An employer, who has an All-In-One paid time off policy (PTO) with embedded sick leave that meets or exceeds the law is basically all set. The policy just needs to make sure the accrual rate complies with the new accrual rate and it may need a carryover provision.

NYSSL can be used as soon as it is earned. Starting Jan. 1, 2021, no waiting period is allowed. Employers can set a minimum usage of 4 hours and balances are not paid upon separation. NYSSL can be used for:

 Employees mental or physical illness, or injury, or diagnosis, care, treatment, or preventive care for employees mental or physical illness or injury.

 Covered family members mental or physical illness or injury or diagnosis, care, treatment, or preventive care for a covered family members mental or physical illness or injury.

 Absences related to employees status as a victim of domestic violence, family offense, sexual offense, stalking, or human trafficking; or

 Absences related to a covered family members status as a victim of domestic violence, family offense, sexual offense, stalking, or human trafficking.

This is job-guaranteed sick leave, which means employers should prohibit discrimination, harassment and retaliation for employees who use sick leave or make a complaint of the same. Employers will be required to track how much leave their employees have used and give the employee the balance earned within 3 days of the employees request.

Word of mouth is probably not the most effective way to inform employees of their leave rights to NYSSL. We've seen this already happening for months now with the Family First Corona Response Act (FFCRA). The U.S. Department of Labor said it will have public announcements on radio, social media, and television to make employees aware of their FFCRA rights. In a statement, they said, Getting this critical information to workers and employers when they need it most remains a top priority.

Getting information out to your employees about NYSSL and FFCRA should be every employer's priority. Inform workers with written policies and directions on who to contact and how to process requests. Managing leave requests is not easy. It requires knowledgeable staff (HR pros) who understand the laws and understand the differences and nuances of each leave law. We encourage every employer to create an infrastructure to manage leave requests promptly and properly.

Rose Miller is president of Pinnacle Human Resources LLC. rmiller@pinnaclehrllc.com
Thousands protest against COVID-19 passports in Sweden

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Carnival in Rio de Janeiro postponed due to omicron strain

More than 9,300 Afghans claiming protection were taken to Germany

Scientists suggest that under surface of one of Saturn moons lies ocean

Russian Foreign Ministry: US and NATO launched toxi campaign against Moscow

Sergey Nersesyan dismissed from post of Yerevan Deputy Mayor

British Foreign Secretary to visit Moscow in February for talks with Lavrov

48-year-old man dies of frostbite in Yerevan

1,822 criminal cases launched in Kazakhstan after January riots

Tatoyan: Expired drugs found in mental health centers in Armenia

6.3 magnitude earthquake strikes off coast of Alaska

Putin and Pashinyan discuss by phone prospects for further cooperation within CSTO

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Armenia confirms 940 new coronavirus cases, no deaths

Armenian rescuers pull out 50 stuck cars and provide necessary aid to 80 citizens

Papua New Guinea parliament repeals death penalty law

TikTok starts testing paid subscriptions

Israeli fighter jets, refueling planes hold massive drills aimed at Tehran

France announces gradual lifting of coronavirus restrictions

Fountains in Athens' central square illuminated with Armenian tricolor

Austria approves Europe's first mandatory COVID-19 vaccination mandate

World War II aircraft crashed in India found after 77 years

Armenian Parliament Deputy Speaker meets EU delegation

Deputy Speaker of Armenian parliament meets Russian Ambassador to Armenia

Germany won't pay compensation if Nord Stream 2 doesn't comply with German, EU laws

NEWS.am digest: EU special rep. is in Armenia, Roma's Mkhitaryan turns 33 today

Child injured in Artsakh car accident taken to Yerevan by Russian peacekeepers' helicopter

Taiwanese woman faces death penalty for setting island's deadliest fire

Turkey passes law to exempt converted lira deposits from corporate tax

Blinken says he discussed Iran nuclear deal with Lavrov

Erdogan says Turkey has peaceful relations with Russia like never before

New German government wants to attract 400,000 skilled workers from abroad every year

Israeli Attorney General orders to investigate police allegations of spyware

Blinken: Any Russian invasion of Ukraine will be met with swift response

Candidate: Ombudsmans institution is one of few established institutions in Armenia

Lavrov summarizes the results of talks with Blinken

UN agrees on definition of Holocaust denial

Lavrov and Blinken talks kick off in Geneva

Australian FM says issue of sending direct military aid to Ukraine is not considered

Armenia PM receives EU delegation, need for full operation of Karabakh peace process is stressed

Armenia National Assembly debating on new ombudspersons candidacy

Katherine Tai: The world can't go back to the 2019 trading system

Dollar gains value in Armenia

Armenia legislature told hold secret ballot to elect TV and radio commission new members

NATO intends to hold largest military exercises beyond Arctic Circle in early March

7 new cases of coronavirus reported in Artsakh

'Zangezur corridor' will unite Turkic world, says Azerbaijan presidential office official

Armenia FM highlights need for full resumption of Karabakh peace talks

Armenia ex-defense minister: In our time it was shame to immediately turn to CSTO in case of Azerbaijan provocations

UN General Assembly head calls for peace during Beijing Olympics

Armenia Tourism Committee has new chairperson

Russian MFA: Priority today is to start Azerbaijan-Armenia border delimitation, demarcation process

Parliament passes, in first reading, bill restricting gambling advertising in Armenia

UK considering sending hundreds of additional troops to Ukraine's neighbors

Warships of Russia, Iran and China work out counteraction to maritime piracy

Armenia first deputy minister of justice dismissed

Israeli defense minister tests positive for COVID-19

Karabakh conflict resumption likelihood is moderate, its impact on US interests is low, report says

Antonio Guterres thinks Russia will not invade Ukraine

Azerbaijan ambassador to Russia hastens to sweeten the sediment of statement by US embassy in Baku

IS fighters attack army barracks in mountainous area north of Baghdad, killing 11 soldiers

Thomas de Waal: Will Armenia and Turkey be able to normalize relations after 3rd attempt?

Armenia Security Council secretary, visiting EU delegation discuss situation on border with Azerbaijan

Foreign ministers of Israel and Turkey have talk for 1st time in 13 years

Fly Arna shareholders appoint companys Board of Directors

628 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia

CSTO chief: Necessary to work on Armenia-Azerbaijan border delimitation, demarcation

FBI search congressman's home in connection with Azerbaijan probe

Newspaper: Armenia PM again goes way of black and white

Newspaper: Scenario devised after war to be implemented in Artsakh

EU Special Representative for South Caucasus arrives in Armenia

Quake hits Armenia: 28 km northwest of Jermuk

Crete island lighthouse illuminated with colors of Armenian tricolor

Aurora Humanitarian Initiative to allocate $500,000 to projects in Artsakh

Sajid Javid: Britain must learn to live with COVID-19, it could be with us forever

Erdogan suggests Putin and Zelensky meet face to face

EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus meets Aliyev

US imposes sanctions on Ukrainians related to 'Russian harmful foreign activities'

Sabah: Ankara refuses to hold next Armenian-Turkish meeting in a third country

US general discusses regional security and bilateral cooperation in Armenia

Secret graves of alleged protesters discovered in Almaty

Armenian side members to Armenian-American Intergovernmental Commission confirmed

WHO advises countries to lift or ease international travel restrictions

US sanctions against Vladimir Putin, Ruben Vardanian and members of the Russian government

Armenian Foreign Ministry discusses Mirzoyan's participation in Turkey forum

Thailand to resume non-quarantine travel scheme from February 1

Instagram introduces paid subscription feature

NEWS.am daily digest: 20.01.22

Europe considers new strategy to combat COVID-19

Norwegian prosecutors refuse release Anders Breivik, 2011 mass murderer

Erdogan urges Turks to sell foreign currency for liras

Azerbaijan not yet returned about 300 sheep of Armenia villager
In a rare flourish for one of the highest courts in the state, a Supreme Court master has penned a requiem to the "bare-knuckled" litigation it took to finally kill the late Alan Bonds defunct Bell Group.

Titled "Ode to a dying corporation", Master Craig Sanderson said thousands worked on the Bell litigation that "swirled for 25 years".

'No Australian judge before or since could have handled the case better': Former WA Supreme Court Justice Neville Owen. Credit:Fairfax Media

"Most have put the experience behind them and moved on; many, shattered by the experience, have retired; more than a few have gone mad," he wrote.

"Now the guns have fallen silent.
Libyas oil industry continued to revive this week following a truce between the main factions in the OPEC members devastating civil war.

The Sarir field opened on Tuesday, according to its operator, Arabian Gulf Oil Co. Production is just 30,000 barrels a day for now. But with a capacity of about 200,000, its the biggest deposit in the country to restart since an almost-total shutdown of Libyan energy facilities in January.

Much of the countrys oil crescent -- a cluster of ports and fields in the east -- is back onstream, though not yet at full capacity. Libyas western fields, including Sharara, the biggest in the North African nation, are still closed. The state-run National Oil Corp. has said foreign mercenaries and other fighters must leave facilities before than can reopen.

Overall oil output has reached about 300,000 barrels a day, up from 80,000 at the start of September.

Libya has seen false dawns before, and previous deals to stop the conflict have quickly collapsed. But if this one holds, JPMorgan Chase & Co. forecasts that production can hit 1 million barrels a day by March.

The potential for extra Libyan supplies is putting pressure on oil prices just as traders fret about the outlook for energy demand with the coronavirus pandemic still raging. Brent crude is down 3.5% this week to around $40.50 a barrel, increasing its loss this year to almost 40%.

The increase in Libyan oil production is promising after so many months of deadlock and billions of dollars lost, said Kristoff Potgieter, an analyst at NKC African Economics in South Africa. But the higher output will be eyed warily by OPEC as it attempts to restrict production and stabilize prices.

FUEL FIX: Now more than ever, you need our energy news in your inbox

Heres the latest on Libya:

Arabian Gulf Oil Co., or Agoco, has also restarted the eastern fields of Messla, which is producing 67,000 barrels daily, and Hamada, which is pumping 6,000

Fields supplying the eastern ports of Brega, Hariga and Zueitina were pumping 150,000 barrels a day as of Sunday, according to two people with knowledge of the situation. Production will continue to rise as more tankers arrive and load crude from storage, creating room for fresh oil from the fields, they said

The easts two other oil ports -- Es Sider and Ras Lanuf -- are sill closed

Sirte Oil Co., which runs Brega and some fields, is pumping close to its normal level of 70,000 barrels a day; it has also restarted its refinery

Last week, two tankers each shipped one million barrels from Hariga

A tanker is expected at Zueitina next week to load 630,000 barrels; the port has more than 4.5 million barrels in storage

Libyan ports have around 24 million barrels in storage, with almost 20 million of those in eastern terminals, analysts at OilX said last week

What else to watch:

Sharara can pump 300,000 barrels a day. Its run by the NOC in a joint venture with Frances Total SE, Spains Repsol SA, Austrias OMV AG and Norways Equinor ASA

The nearby El Feel field, in which Eni SpA of Italy has a stake, is also shut down

Brega port is expected to load three crude cargoes in October of 600,000 barrels each, according to an initial loading plan

Below is a list showing the status and capacity, in barrels a day, of Libyas oil export terminals, according to data compiled by Bloomberg:

Es Sider, Closed, 340k; force majeure

Zawiya, Closed, 230k; force majeure

Ras Lanuf, Closed, 220k; force majeure

Mellitah, Closed for crude, 160k; open for loading condensates

Hariga, Open, 110k

Zueitina, Open, 70k

Brega, Open, 60k

Offshore terminals:

Bouri, Open, 45k

Jurf, Open, 40k

2020 Bloomberg L.P.
This is Naked Capitalism fundraising week. 1422 donors have already invested in our efforts to combat corruption and predatory conduct, particularly in the financial realm. Please join us and participate via our donation page, which shows how to give via check, credit card, debit card, or PayPal. Read about why were doing this fundraiser, what weve accomplished in the last year, and our current goal, more original reporting.

Yves here. On the one hand, its gratifying to see Congresscritters shellack drug company execs over predatory pricing. I am sure readers in other countries cannot fathom how we allow this sort of thing to go on, particularly since the US also heavily subsidized Big Pharma via government-funded research. Even small Australia gets way better prices by researching which drugs are most effective for particular ailments, often eschewing minor reformulations that generate big price increases, like a 24 hour release version versus the former take three times a day version, and bargaining hard for the ones they buy.

The short answer is that aside from right after the financial crisis, the health care industry has spend the most lobbying dollars in DC.

On the other, Corporate America is shameless, and few CEOs are going to let a hour or even two of being roughed up stand between them and their pay packages. They may even know the classic joke:

Rob a convenience store of $1000 and you get 10 years in prison. Steal $100 million and you get hauled before Congress and called bad names for 10 minutes.

Only when the public is sufficiently irate that Congress starts talking about price curbs will drug makers start exercising some restraint. But even then, theyll concede as little as they can.

By Brett Wilkins, staff writer at Common Dreams. Originally published at Common Dreams

House Democratsincluding three Squad memberstore into pharmaceutical industry chief executives during a Wednesday congressional hearing on Big Pharma profiteering, with Rep. Katie Porter verbally eviscerating one CEO for more than tripling the price of a critical cancer drug.

Wednesday marked the first day of a two-day House Oversight Committee hearing titled Unsustainable Drug Prices: Testimony from the CEOs. Bristol Myers Squibb CEO Giovanni Caforio, Teva Pharmaceuticals CEO Kare Schultz, and former Celgene CEO Mark Alles all endured nearly four hours of grilling over the price of prescription drugswhich are almost always far more expensive in the United States than anywhere else in the world.

Porter (D-Calif.), a former consumer protection attorney, was the most ferocious committee member to address the CEOs. Bringing out her infamous white board, she attacked Celgenes repeated price hikes for the cancer drug Revlimid, which now costs $763 per dosein 2005 it cost $215. When Alles attempted to explain that the drug has been approved for new uses, Porter hit back, and hard.

WATCH: Katie Porter absolutely grills a Big Pharma CEO who *tripled* the price of a cancer drug. To recap here, the drug didnt get any better. The cancer patients didnt get any better. You just got better at making money. You just refined your skills at price gouging. https://t.co/Kzl6AwRtEF  PCs Access to Meds (@PCMedsAccess) September 30, 2020



Did the drug start to work faster? Were there fewer side effects? How did you change the formula or production of Revlimid to justify this price increase? Porter asked. To recap here: The drug didnt get any better, the cancer patients didnt get any better, you just got better at making moneyyou just refined your skills at price gouging.

WATCH: Katie Porter absolutely grills a Big Pharma CEO who *tripled* the price of a cancer drug. To recap here, the drug didnt get any better. The cancer patients didnt get any better. You just got better at making money. You just refined your skills at price gouging. https://t.co/Kzl6AwRtEF  PCs Access to Meds (@PCMedsAccess) September 30, 2020

I would love to see @RepKatiePorter take on Donald Trump.  Robert Reich (@RBReich) September 30, 2020



Porter has built a reputation for speaking tough truth to power, on issues ranging from defending access to crucial public benefits, to challenging mega-bank CEOs on income inequality, to exposing the pernicious influence of dark money in politics.

Toward the end of Wednesdays nearly four-hour session, three of the four members of the so-called SquadReps. Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), Ayanna Pressley (D-Mass.), and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.)slammed the CEOs over what Ocasio-Cortez called the exorbitant cost of life-saving medications.

Armed with a chart showing the cost of 40 milligrams of Tevas multiple sclerosis drug Copaxone is more than five times as high in the U.S. as in Britain, Ocasio-Cortez refuted an assertion by Schultz that medications cost more in the United States because American patients have very broad, and very early access to new drugs.

Citing Tevas own internal documents, Ocasio-Cortez showed the company was forced to lower prices by European governmentswhich unlike the U.S. have instituted spending controlseven as it raised prices for American patients.

Pressley asserted that the lack of access to affordable life-saving medicine is an injustice [that] represents an act of economic violence and an attack on the basic principle that healthcare is a fundamental human right, while Tlaib ripped Schultz for using charitable donations like a side hustle.

Your pharmaceutical company makes these so-called charitable donations so you look like you give a shit about sick people, said Tlaib. But in reality these are just another scheme by your corporation to make money off of sick people.
A court here has slammed former Prime Minister and Pakistani Muslim League (N) supremo over his failure to appear before the court after permission was granted to fly abroad to get medical treatment in November last year.

"Accused [Sharif] knows that he went abroad after defeating the system. He must be laughing at the system while sitting abroad. It's shameful conduct by the accused," Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) was quoted as saying by The Express Tribune.

This comes after Sharif on Wednesday had said that he has been informed that "someone else" was running the Parliament, instead of its members.

"People tell me that someone else is running the Parliament. Other people come and give directions about the day's agenda and voting on bills etc," he said while virtually addressing a meeting of its party from the United Kingdom.

has fast-tracked the process to bring back PML-N leader from London, where he had been staying since November 2019 on medical grounds.

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday tasked relevant authorities with bringing back Sharif at the earliest. The decision was taken during a cabinet meeting where the PM also issued the directive to pursue the matter vigorously.

A cabinet member told Dawn the government had already sent a request to the British government for the PML-N leader's repatriation but it would now send a fresh application.

He said besides a normal application, a formal request for his extradition would also be made. "Although we have no extradition treaty with the UK, wanted people can be repatriated under special arrangements as we had also handed over some people to the UK," the cabinet member said.

Last week, the IHC Tuesday came down heavily on the Imran Khan-led government that it allowed Sharif to go abroad without informing the court and it was up to the dispensation to take steps for ensuring the latter's return to the country.

Additional Attorney General Tariq Mehmood Khokhar told a bench comprising Justices Aamer Farooq and Mohsin Akhtar Kayani that Pakistan's Foreign Office implemented the court-issued non-bailable arrest warrants without delay through the High Commission in the UK on September 17, Geo News reported.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A New York City man faces theft and other charges in an alleged ponzi scheme that defrauded investors in Bergen County of more than $500,000, authorities said.

Giuseppe Valentino, 52, ran a company called Rhineau LLC and claimed to have developed an algorithm for financial products known as binary options, according to Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella.

During the course of a year, Valentino allegedly solicited more than $500,000 in investor funds, Musella said in a statement.

He then used investor funds for his own personal expenses, conducting no investment activity, Musella said. The investigation also revealed that Valentino was on federal probation for similar offenses.

A Bergen County resident filed a complaint about Valentino with the Fort Lee Police Department in December 2019. Police forwarded the complaint to the prosecutors office, Musella said.

After an investigation, a warrant was issued for Valentinos arrest and the U.S. Marshals Service took him into custody in New York on Sept. 22, Musella said.

Valentino is awaiting extradition to New Jersey, where he is charged with first-degree money laundering, theft by deception and falsifying records. Hes also charged with violating his federal parole, the prosecutor said.

Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription.

Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
For more than a decade, the British spirits writer Jim Murray has held sway as the worlds most influential whiskey critic, thanks largely to his Whisky Bible, an annual compendium of thousands of reviews, including his prestigious World Whisky of the Year award. His words can make or break a brand, his books have sold more than a million copies, and his tasting events, which take him from Kentucky to India to points in between, attract thousands of fans.

He is sometimes compared to Robert M. Parker Jr., the prominent wine critic, but thats not quite right: The wine world is full of voices other than Mr. Parkers; with whiskey, nothing comes close to the power of a Jim Murray review.

Among whiskey connoisseurs, though, Mr. Murray, 62, has long been a controversial figure. Some distilleries and retailers have quietly refused to carry his books or use his reviews for promotion, saying that he shows a sexist and demeaning attitude toward women in his reviews and at public events. In the 2017 edition of Jim Murrays Whisky Bible, for example, he likened a single-malt Scotch to a 40-year-old woman who has kept her figure and looks, and now only satin stands in the way between you and so much beauty and experience  and believe me: shes spicy.

Now, those accusations have burst into the open. On Sept. 20, four days after Mr. Murray published the 2021 edition of the Whisky Bible in Britain, a whiskey journalist in England named Becky Paskin wrote a lengthy post on Instagram and Twitter saying that dozens of the reviews in the book contained sexist language; later that day, Felipe Schrieberg, a writer for Forbes, published an article making similar allegations.
"My time at the Youth Center has truly elevated me to become the strong young lady I am, knowing I can strive for anything I dream of accomplishing," Bethany said of her Boys & Girls Club experience.

Bethany first joined the Boys & Girls Club-affiliated Youth Center in third grade. Fearful that she would not belong, Bethany was particularly insecure about her hearing aid. Yet instead of feeling left out, Bethany found her individuality was celebrated by Club staff and her peers.

"I was different and they did not shy away from this," she said. "The mentors encouraged my uniqueness and taught me to never be ashamed." Bethany was quick to get involved in many of the programs offered by her affiliated Boys & Girls Club, as well as helping her develop important life skills. She credits the Club with building her resiliency.

"To give up in the face of adversity is no longer an option. Resiliency has set me apart from individuals around me because I am willing to fight for my dreams."

As National Military Youth of the Year, Bethany will serve as a spokesperson for Boys & Girls Clubs of America representing thousands of military-connected youth.

Military Youth of the Year is a component of Boys & Girls Clubs of America's National Youth of the Year recognition program for Club members. On Oct. 6, Bethany will join five other finalists from civilian Clubs to vie for the National Youth of the Year honor and scholarship. Five judges individually interview each candidate and select the national winner on the basis of scholastic achievement, community service, and leadership ability. The National Youth of the Year will receive an additional scholarship of $50,000 and a brand-new Toyota Corolla.

Founded more than seventy years ago in 1947 as Boys & Girls Clubs of America's premier youth recognition program, Youth of the Year recognizes outstanding contributions to a member's family, school, community and Boys & Girls Club. The Youth of the Year recognition program is presented by Toyota.

For more information about the Youth of the Year program, visit www.youthoftheyear.org.

About Boys & Girls Clubs of America

For 160 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA.org) has enabled young people most in need to achieve great futures as productive, caring, responsible citizens. Today, more than 4,700 Clubs serve over 4.6 million young people through Club membership and community outreach. Clubs are located in cities, towns, public housing and on Native lands throughout the country, and serve military families in BGCA-affiliated Youth Centers on U.S. military installations worldwide. They provide a safe place, caring adult mentors, fun and friendship, and high-impact youth development programs on a daily basis during critical non-school hours. Club programs promote academic success, good character and citizenship, and healthy lifestyles. In a Harris Survey of alumni, 54 percent said the Club saved their lives. National headquarters are located in Atlanta. Learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs of America on Facebook and Twitter.

SOURCE Boys & Girls Clubs of America

Related Links

http://www.bgca.org


The U.S. will continue to buy parts for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter from Turkey through 2022, despite Ankara's purchase of the Russian S-400 air defense system billed as an "F-35 killer" by Moscow, the Pentagon's top acquisitions official said Thursday.

The Trump administration in July 2019 banned Turkey from participation in the multinational F-35 program. But the Defense Department had to continue buying Turkish-made parts to maintain production, said Ellen Lord, DoD's Under Secretary for Acquisition and Sustainment.

Read Next: It's Official: The ACFT Is Now the Army's Fitness Test of Record

Turkish factories currently make more than 900 parts for the F-35's center fuselage, cockpit display systems and other components, Lord said, adding that a complete cutoff in December as initially planned would result in about $1 billion in replacement costs that would slow down production of the aircraft.

"So we made a decision on a number of parts that it was smarter in terms of taxpayer dollars and warfighter readiness to let those contracts play out in Turkey so that we wouldn't have these huge termination liability costs," Lord told the Senate Armed Services subcommittee on readiness and management support. "So we have a few of the [Turkish-made] products that will go until 2022."

However, "we are well on our way" in eliminating Turkey completely from the F-35 program, "and the bulk of the parts will be out by the end of year," she said.

Over vehement objections from DoD, NATO ally Turkey began taking deliveries of the S-400 Triumf advanced air defense system from Russia in early July 2019, at an estimated cost of $2.5 billion.

Later that month, the White House announced that Turkey was being formally removed from participation in the F-35 program.

"Unfortunately, Turkey's decision to purchase Russian S-400 air defence systems renders its continued involvement with the F-35 impossible," then-White House spokeswoman Stephanie Grisham said at the time. "The F-35 cannot coexist with a Russian intelligence collection platform that will be used to learn about its advanced capabilities."

Turkish pilots were also banned from continuing their training on the F-35. The country had planned to buy about 100 of the jets.

Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., questioned whether the continued purchase of parts from Turkey had the potential to allow sensitive information on the F-35's stealthy technology to be passed on to Russia.

"We have worked very, very closely with Turkey" to prevent the possibility of Russia gaining an edge, Lord said, but she declined to give details, and suggested scheduling a closed session for further discussion.

Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, the subcommittee's chairman, said he would recommend a closed session and added that he hoped the Pentagon had "learned a lesson" from Turkey's purchase of the S-400.

"Turkey's an important ally," he said, but "we can't be reliant on an ally that all of a sudden starts to be very focused on cooperation with one of our biggest strategic adversaries."

-- Richard Sisk can be reached at Richard.Sisk@Military.com.

Related: Air Force Will Get F-35 Jets Denied to Turkey After Russian Missile Buy
Hussam Eddin Ala has reiterated Syria's rejection of the occupation of the Syrian Arab Golan and the practises of the Israeli occupying forces writes SANA.

Syrias Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva Hussam Eddin Ala, reiterated Syrias demand for the end of Israels occupation of the Syrian Arab Golan.

Ambassador Ala said in a statement at the 45th session of the Human Rights Council, Despite the Human Rights Council and UN bodies repeated resolutions calling for an ending to the Israeli occupation of the Syrian Golan, the Israeli entity continues to illegitimately impose its laws and will on the occupied Syrian Golan in a flagrant violation of UN Security Council resolutions, including Resolution No.497 for 1981.

The occupying forces continue to tighten noose against the people of the Syrian Golan in an attempt to seize their agriculture lands and establish an agricultural situation to serve the Israeli settlers, in addition to restricting the Syrian citizens movement and preventing them from building on their lands in the framework of the Israeli schemes to establish a demographic change in the occupied Syrian Golan, Ala added.

Syria stresses the importance of monitoring Israeli violations of human rights in the occupied Palestinian territories, including the Eastern Jerusalem and the occupied Syrian Golan and its role in putting pressures on the occupying authority to oblige it to stop committing violations and its illegal practices and to end its occupation, Ala added, holding the states supporting Israel responsible for the continuation of those crimes.

Syria condemns the continued expansion of Israeli settlements in the Syrian Golan and the occupied Palestinian territories, including Eastern Jerusalem, and calls for a complete cessation of all forms of settlement and other activities aimed at making demographic change and converting the legal situation of the occupied lands in a blatant violation of the UN Security Councils relevant Resolutions and the Fourth Geneva Convention , he said.

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.
This week Prime Minister Scott Morrison committed his government to supporting specific sectors of advanced manufacturing as a means of accelerating Australia out of its COVID-induced recession. Industry will be offered $1.5 billion in next week's budget to sustain local manufacturing to secure a "sovereign capability" in six priority areas ranging from food to medicine and clean energy.

While it may seem an initiative of obvious benefit in generating jobs and backing home-grown entrepreneurship, the resurgence of an industry policy in Australia in which the government "picks winners" for such largesse revives a policy front with a very chequered past.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison announces his new manufacturing policy. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer

In recent decades, both sides of government have tended to shy away from such an approach, preferring to offer broad assistance across all industries with measures such as lowering taxes and revamping industrial relations. The Coalition's willingness to pull the plug on the local car industry by withdrawing financial subsidies was the most high-profile example of the move away from direct support for particular industries, even when they employed large numbers of people.

But the Coalition's task in trying to revive an economy flattened by the pandemic  no more so than in Victoria  is on a scale not faced by any government in living memory. And that probably goes a long way to explaining why some of the debates on the merits of certain economic measures are being left for a later time.
Bhumi Pednekar has been in the Hindi film industry from long before she made her acting debut with Dum Laga Ke Haisha in 2015. Bhumi worked as a casting director at Yash Raj Films before stepping into acting.

During a chat with Neha Dhupia on her show No Filter Neha, Bhumi revealed her experience of meeting the supremely talented actor Ranveer Singh for the first time. Bhumi shared that she was intimidated by his energy and she thought to herself that he is a fantastic actor.

Talking about the first time she met Ranveer for an audition, Bhumi told Neha, "I'm actually in the audition, it's on YouTube and I remember the first time I met him and I was like this guy...and it's on YouTube because I had one of Fan clubs kind of tag me on it and I was like.. how did they find this!"

She continued, "It was great fun yaar, his energy was just amazing, I was blown away. I was so intimidated by him because I was like, my god what a fantastic actor and what energy. From whatever I've heard from Shanoo he is as authentic as it gets. You know, he is this person."

Ranveer made his debut with Band Baaja Baaraat, a 2010 romantic comedy, starring alongside Anushka Sharma. The film was produced by Yash Raj Films.

When asked if she had any bizarre audition stories, Bhumi said, "We didn't have anything bizarre ya, I feel the entire audition process is very bizarre, because you expect way too much out of people but some of them are so funny. I remember this guy, I could not understand his accent and I would just crack up. I couldn't control myself because he was also a rather horrible actor but a very sweet man, I could just not understand. I was like I can't take it so I literally had to kind of hand it over to my assistant and I was like listen "it's really rude". I always had this conscience that Bhumi, someday this is going to happen to you, so you better clean your act. But no, nothing very strange."

Talking about work, Bhumi was last seen in Dolly Kitty Aur Woh Chamakte Sitare, starring alongside Konkona Sen Sharma. She will next be seen in a horror thriller titled Durgavati. It is a remake of the Telugu film Bhaagamathie, and is being co-produced by Akshay Kumar, Bhushan Kumar and Vikram Malhotra.

Bhumi Pednekar pledges to feed 550 families as a tribute to Sushant Singh Rajput | FilmiBeat

ALSO READ: WHAT? Bhumi Pednekar Swept The Floor Of Seema Pahwa's House For A Month
OLNEY  Rick A. Meador, the Olney fugitive wanted in a murder investigation, was arrested Wednesday in Florida, the Illinois State Police announced.

Meador, 18, was taken into custody at the Bass Haven Campground in DeFuniak in Walton County. Taken into custody along with him was a 16-year-old Olney girl who had previously been listed as missing and endangered by police working the murder probe.

State Police investigators had described Meador as the prime suspect in the Sept. 6 killing of 19-year-old Kyle M. Johnson from Olney. He was shot multiple times and later died in hospital. He had been found at the intersection of North Walnut and East Laurel streets in Olney.

A news release from State Police said Meador was now being held in the Walton County Jail with bail on his arrest warrant set at $500,000; arrangements are pending to extradite him back to Richland County.

The 16-year-old female was taken into protective custody by the Emerald Coast Childrens Advocacy Center, the news release added.

The arrest of Meador was carried out by members of the U.S. Marshals Florida/Caribbean Fugitive Task Force and the Walton County Sheriffs Department.

Contact Tony Reid at (217) 421-7977. Follow him on Twitter: @TonyJReid

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LOS ANGELES, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- WYLLOW, a new Los Angeles based female-owned cannabis brand, is excited to announce their entry into the Bay Area by popular demand. Thanks to premium quality cannabis supplier, STIIIZY , a limited release of WYLLOW's exclusive new strain, "Gelato," will be available for purchase only at STIIIZY flagship stores in both San Francisco, and Los Angeles.

WYLLOW at STIIIZY WYLLOW "Gelato" at STIIIZY

WYLLOW debuted three introductory strains in August 2020 for their launch. Shortly after, WYLLOW saw their most popular Sativa strain "Mimosa" spark interest along the California coast. Now, WYLLOW is extending their product line into the San Francisco Bay Area with "Gelato," which will be accompanied by a custom VR Instagram filter featuring the collaboration.

With both brands rooted in Los Angeles, tapping into the Bay Area STIIIZY footprint was a no-brainer for WYLLOW Founder, Camille Roistacher. As a female entrepreneur, Camille's vision for WYLLOW is to play on femininity, while remaining a top-shelf brand, designed and intended for cannabis connoisseurs of all walks of life.

"We're so excited to partner with STIIIZY and introduce a new exclusive strain. We couldn't imagine a better opportunity to enter the San Francisco Bay Area" - CEO & Founder Camille Roistacher.

WYLLOW offers premium exotic indoor-grown cannabis. The cultivators sourced by the WYLLOW parent company, Voyage Distribution , have over 100 years of combined experience between first-generation to legacy growers all over California. WYLLOW promotes balance, wellness, and self-care which is reflected in every extension of the brand. From the unparalleled attention to detail and superior growing methods, to their carefully selected dispensary partnerships, to their day-to-day interactions with their consumer community, WYLLOW aims to resonate with all cannabis enthusiasts.

WYLLOW offers exotic indoor-grown cannabis flower for the conscious cannabis connoisseur. Based in Los Angeles, WYLLOW is a female-owned and operated company created in 2020 as an inclusive brand that's designed and intended for all. WYLLOW's proprietary strains and terpene profiles, paired with smooth flavors evoke a mellow long-lasting high for every occasion, bringing you to an elevated state while enhancing your experience. As a brand powered by Voyage Distribution , WYLLOW can easily tap into a vast network of 250+ cultivators to cut out the middlemen and bring a high-end product directly to the consumer at a reasonable price, without sacrificing quality. WYLLOW is a part of The Floret Coalition , an anti-racist collective of small business in the cannabis space funding equity-oriented actions that serve a spectrum of needs in Black, Latinx, and Indigenous communities. For more information, check out the WYLLOW website at shopwyllow.com or follow @shopwyllow on Instagram , Twitter , LinkedIn , or Spotify .

WYLLOW Contact:

Camille Roistacher

[email protected]

+1 (424) 241-3396

Media Contact:

Tom Van Daele

[email protected]

+1 (310) 804-2170

SOURCE WYLLOW

Related Links

http://www.shopwyllow.com


If you love America, then Tuesdays cacophonous debate was heartbreaking to watch, almost unbearable.

But of the many low points, please remember this one: The president of the United States twice refused a simple request from Fox News moderator Chris Wallace to denounce white supremacy. It was Charlottesville all over again, with our president openly giving comfort to the most vile creatures among us.

Judge for yourself:

Are you willing, tonight, to condemn white supremacists and militia groups and to say that they need to stand down and not add to the violence in a number of these cities as we saw in Kenosha and as weve seen in Portland? Chris Wallace asked.

Sure, Im willing to do that, the president said.

It seemed like he might. Joe Biden cheered him on: Do it! he said.

But Trump didnt' do it. Almost everything I see is from the left wing, not the right wing, he said.

Wallace circled back, his second request now: Then do it, sir, say it.

Trump couldnt get the words out. And then he sunk lower, telling the Proud Boys, an openly violent hate group, that they should be prepared to intervene on his behalf this election season.

Proud Boys, stand back and stand by, the president said.

Naturally, the Proud Boys are ecstatic. They are a group of racist misfits with a habit of showing up, with weapons, to confront the leftist misfits who have been breaking windows, setting fires, and attacking cops in places like Kenosha and Portland. Trump believes that senseless violence between extremists on both sides will fortify his law-and-order campaign, as Kellyanne Conway conceded in an unguarded moment.

It is unnerving to live under a president who commits outrages at such an unrelenting pace. To give each one the attention it deserves is not emotionally sustainable for most human beings. So, we let things go.

But not this time. This was too much. Mark the moment.

Trump is trying his best to create chaos and undermine our democracy. He wont commit to a peaceful transfer of power. Hes making baseless charges of fraud nearly every day. And now hes encouraging his explicitly violent followers to stand by and await orders, assuming the role of their general.

The nightmare scenario is that Trump builds a lead on Election Day but is likely to fall behind once the mail-in ballots are counted. What will he say to the Proud Boys then? Will he praise right-wing protestors who bring assault weapons to confrontations at statehouses, as he did in May when it happened in Michigan? If people are killed, will this president work to bring peace or use the chaos to press his agenda? Does anyone have a doubt?

Trumps strategy in the debate was to interrupt constantly, no doubt hoping to provoke Biden into losing his composure. It didnt work. Biden called Trump a racist and a liar, and at one point turned to the president and said, Will you shut up, man?

It was harsh, but by then, most people probably agreed. Trump interruptions were obnoxious, demolishing any hopes of a cogent discussion. Wallace was at a loss, as if coping with a spoiled child having a tantrum.

Mr. President, your campaign agreed both sides would get two-minute answers, uninterrupted, Wallace said. Why dont you observe what your campaign agreed to as a ground rule?

After the debate, snap polls indicated that Biden won decisively, and on Wednesday the Commission on Presidential Debates said it would revise its rules to prevent any onslaught of interruptions like the one we saw from Trump on Tuesday.

When he could be heard, Biden drew a sharp contrast on issues, starting with Trumps almost criminal malfeasance during the pandemic, a task Trump made easier by spewing his familiar nonsense about masks. He noted that Obamacare is at stake in this election, given Trumps lawsuit to repeal it. He promised to repair ties with our allies, and rally that coalition to confront China, rather than go it alone. He offers the only chance we have of national reconciliation.

These times are terrifying. Trump is telling his supporters to go to the polls and watch carefully as to invite clashes. He is spilling gasoline and throwing matches and we have more than a month to go before the vote. Lets hope we can stamp out the flames before they spread too far.

More: Tom Moran columns

Tom Moran may be reached at tmoran@starledger.com. Follow him on Twitter @tomamoran. Find NJ.com Opinion on Facebook.
Housing rents continue to decline in the Bay Area amid the coronavirus pandemic, especially in San Francisco, which has notoriously had the countrys highest rental prices after overtaking New York City years ago.

According to the most recent reports from private listing websites Apartment List and Zumper, rental prices have plummeted 20% in the city so far this year compared with the same time last year.

Zumper found the median cost of a one-bedroom in San Francisco last month was $2,830. The company analyzes rental data from more than 1 million active listings across the country. It includes new construction and excludes listings that are currently occupied or no longer available.

Not only is this drop among the largest yearly decreases Zumper has ever recorded in our history of tracking rental prices, but it was also the first time the median one-bedroom price in San Francisco dipped below $3,000, said data analyst Neil Gerstein in an email. These combined trends show just how drastically the market has changed in the nations most expensive city to rent.

Apartment List reported a considerably lower September median cost for a one-bedroom in San Francisco, at $2,240. The median for a two-bedroom apartment was $2,590, a 5.2% decline from the previous month. Its methodology differs from Zumpers: It starts with statistics from the Census Bureau and Department of Housing and Urban Development, and it includes rents for older units and those in lower-income neighborhoods.

Apartment List

By either measure, the Bay Area continues to be the priciest market for renters in the nation. Zumper found that the top five rental markets in the country includes three Bay Area cities: San Francisco tops the list, with San Jose and Oakland coming in fourth and fifth, respectively.

San Joses rental prices havent changed much from last month at $2,230 for a one-bedroom, and decreased 1% for a 2-bedroom at $2,770. In Oakland, the median cost for a one-bedroom declined 3% to $2,130, and decreased 1% for a two-bedroom to $2,770.

Nationally, Zumper listed New York as the No. 2 most expensive rental market and Boston as No. 3. New Yorks rents dropped 4% from the prior month to $2,600. Gerstein said that while New York City has also had historic price drops during the pandemic and renters appear to be taking advantage of declining rent in both cities, there is a notable difference.

New Yorks migration inflows have returned to pre-March levels, while San Franciscos have not, he said. Both cities continued to experience large migration outflows, but the differences in the two cities migration inflows may explain their diverging price trends and could lead to rental prices in New York stabilizing faster than in San Francisco and overtaking the top spot.

Owen Thomas / The Chronicle

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.

And nationally, Zumpers report shows a decrease of 0.1% from the previous month for a one-bedroom to $1,231, with the year-over-year decline at 0.6%.

In the San Francisco metro area, Apartment List showed Oakland had the least expensive rents, at $1,770 for a one-bedroom and $2,090 for a two-bedroom.

Bay Area rents Zumper analyzed active listings in September across Bay Area cities to show the median cost of rent for a one-bedroom unit, with percentage changes from the previous month. Zumper's methodology favors newer apartments available on the market now. City Median rent, September, 1-bedroom One-month change San Francisco $2,830 -6.9% Mountain View 2,820 -4.1 Palo Alto 2,740 -2.5 Redwood City 2,620 -5.1 Menlo Park 2,560 -4.8 Cupertino 2,550 -4.9 Emeryville 2,440 Santa Clara 2,390 -5.2 Sunnyvale 2,330 -4.9 San Mateo 2,320 -4.1 Daly City 2,300 0.9 South San Francisco 2,260 -1.3 Dublin 2,240 -3.4 San Jose 2,230 Berkeley 2,200 -0.9 Milpitas 2,170 -4.8 San Rafael 2,170 -1.4 Walnut Creek 2,160 -1.8 Oakland 2,130 -3.2 Fremont 2,100 -1.4 Union City 2,100 Campbell 2,050 Alameda 2,000 Livermore 1,940 -4.4 Hayward 1,880 -1.6 San Leandro 1,880 -1.1 Richmond 1,870 -0.5 Concord 1,800 Antioch 1,700 East Palo Alto 1,690 -3.4 Vallejo 1,400 -3.5 Source: Zumper Another view of rents Apartment List gathers data differently, presenting a view of what currently occupied apartments go for. City Median rent, September, 1-bedroom One-month change Dublin $2,680 -1.1 Emeryville 2,550 -2.9 Fremont 2,390 -1 San Francisco 2,240 -5.2 Union City 2,220 -1.9 San Mateo 2,210 -3.7 Redwood City 2,120 -4.3 Pleasanton 2,070 -0.1 Walnut Creek 2,040 -0.1 Hayward 1,960 -0.9 Oakland 1,770 -2.1 Berkeley 1,700 -2.7 Source: Apartment List See More Collapse

A number of East Bay cities did not see much of a rent decline from the previous year: Pleasanton and Walnut Creek each decreased only 0.1%, and Hayward went down 0.9%.

Kellie Hwang is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: kellie.hwang@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @KellieHwang
The tropics are beginning to reawaken from their temporary slumber as the calendar flips to October, with at least two systems worth watching in the coming weeks as the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season charges on. A busy month would be on brand for a season that's already made its way into the record books.

Twenty-three named storms have whirled their way across the Atlantic basin so far this season, exhausting the naming list used by meteorologists and forcing then to dip into the Greek alphabet for only the second time in history. While the majority of systems have been relatively weak and unremarkable, some, like Category 4 Laura and Category 2 Sally, have caused significant damage.

Now, October promises to bring another round of weather that must be watched, as a combination of large-scale atmospheric circulations overlaps to enhance tropical weather activity. The focus is already on the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico, which tend to prove to be autumn hot spots for storms. In fact, one or two weather systems there could already be in the works.

On Wednesday, a strip of low pressure oriented from south to north was sauntering westward across the eastern Caribbean. Satellite imagery reveals a few thunderstorms along that axis of low pressure, and computer models indicate that one clustering of downpours may eventually acquire some spin and serve as the impetus for tropical formation.

It's a good bet that something will form or at least try to form, but the wild card exists in where along that low pressure "trough" it will be. Some models, like the American GFS and the Canadian model, show a slightly weaker, southerly solution, with a low pressure system clipping or passing over the northern Yucatan Peninsula this weekend. That would bring 3 to 6 inches of rain, with localized 8-inch amounts, to northern Quintana Roo and the Yucatan states of Mexico.

Other models, including the European model, fringe the Yucatan Peninsula with that lobe of spin. The German ICON model depicts an even farther north solution, which would yield a stronger system and probably a tropical storm. That sort of scenario would allow any eventual system to pass between Punta Cana and western Cuba and enter the southeastern Gulf of Mexico.

The National Hurricane Center estimates a 60% chance of tropical development with this system. It's unlikely the system would become more than a tropical storm given its path and increasingly disruptive shear, or a change of wind speed and/or direction with height, ahead of a cold front approaching from the northwest.

Moisture from whatever system does develop could pool along the cold front, and will likely bring heavy rainfall to central and southern Florida next week.

In the world of tropical meteorology, trying to accurately forecast storm development beyond a week in advance is a bit of a stretch. That said, there are signs that point to a second system that may develop in the Caribbean.

After the first system dissipates, a trailing clump of vorticity, or spin, could begin to consolidate in the Caribbean. That would first be evident this weekend.

Models then indicate that any system that does develop could meander northwest into the Gulf of Mexico, where it could then affect land areas. However, at this time range, any details would be speculation.

Viewed more widely, the broad weather pattern across the tropical Atlantic will become increasingly favorable for tropical development in the weeks ahead, with the pattern possibly lasting through October.

An area of rising air over the Pacific will shift east into the Atlantic beginning a little over a week from now, and that extra vertical oomph should help any fledgling tropical systems to develop.

Meanwhile, an uptick in organized thunderstorm activity over the Atlantic can be anticipated thanks to enhancement by the Madden-Julian Oscillation, or a region of enhanced showers and thunderstorm that cruises across the global tropics every 30 to 60 days.

While the heart of this storminess won't park itself over the Atlantic, a chain reaction of rising and sinking air masses over the Indian and Pacific Oceans will eventually reduce disruptive wind shear over the Atlantic. That makes it easier for thunderstorm clusters to gather together to form tropical storms and hurricanes.

Moreover, the Gulf of Mexico, a known breeding ground for tropical systems in October, remains anomalously hot - save for cooler sea surface temperatures along the continental shelf, where cooler subsurface waters churned up by Sally and rainfall draining offshore have brought water temperatures down a bit.

Putting it all together, tropical activity may be quiet for the next few days, then climb to average and eventually above average in the 10 to 12 days. Thereafter, the remainder of October looks to be above average, especially toward the second and the third week of the month.

Philip Klotzbach, a hurricane researcher at Colorado State University, published his own outlook for the next few weeks on Wednesday. In it, Klotzbach and his team write "we expect that the next two weeks will be characterized by above-normal amounts of hurricane activity."

The pendulum should swing the other way as we enter a more tranquil period once November nears, which is around the same time as the climatological waning of hurricane season anyway. But for the time being, we're not done - we're just enjoying intermission.
STAMFORD, Conn., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Atlantic Street Acquisition Corp, which has been renamed Atlantic Avenue Acquisition Corp (the "Company"), today announced the pricing of its initial public offering of 25,000,000 units at a price of $10.00 per unit. The units are expected to be listed on the New York Stock Exchange (the "NYSE") and trade under the ticker symbol "ASAQ.U" beginning October 2, 2020. Each unit consists of one share of the Company's Class A common stock and one-half of one redeemable warrant. Each whole warrant entitles the holder to purchase one share of the Company's Class A common stock at a price of $11.50 per share. After the securities comprising the units begin separate trading, the Class A common stock and warrants are expected to be listed on the NYSE under the symbols "ASAQ" and "ASAQ WS," respectively. The offering is expected to close on October 6, 2020.

The Company is a newly incorporated blank check company, sponsored by an entity affiliated with MC Credit Partners LP, whose business purpose is to effect a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization, recapitalization or other similar business combination with one or more businesses.

Cowen and Company, LLC is serving as the lead active book-running manager and as representative of the underwriters. Robert W. Baird & Co. Incorporated is serving as passive book-running manager for the offering. The Company has granted the underwriters a 45-day option to purchase up to an additional 3,750,000 units at the initial public offering price to cover over-allotments, if any.

The offering is being made only by means of a prospectus. When available, copies of the prospectus may be obtained from Cowen and Company, LLC, c/o Broadridge Financial Solutions, 1155 Long Island Avenue, Edgewood, NY 11717, Attn: Prospectus Department, by telephone at 833-297-2806 or by email at [email protected].

A registration statement relating to the securities became effective on October 1, 2020. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking statements. All of these statements are based on management's expectations as well as estimates and assumptions that, although they believe to be reasonable, are inherently uncertain. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any of the forward-looking statements contained herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Contact

Barry Best, CFO

[email protected]

(203) 989-9711

SOURCE Atlantic Avenue Acquisition Corp
Oxford University has launched a scholarship scheme exclusively for black students - two years after snubbing grime star Stormzy's offer to fund a similar programme.

The Black Academic Futures programme will provide up to 10 new scholarships to UK research students starting studies next year.

University bosses admit that black UK graduate students are particularly under-represented at Oxford, making up a proportion of around 1.5 per cent of all postgraduate students, compared with four per cent across all universities.

The scheme comes less than two years after rapper Stormzy offered to pay for two young black teenagers to attend Oxford, but claimed the elite institution 'did not want to get involved'.

Oxford University has launched a scholarship scheme exclusively for black students - two years after snubbing grime star Stormzy's offer to fund a similar programme

The scheme comes less than two years after rapper Stormzy offered to pay for two young black teenagers to attend Oxford, but claimed the elite institution 'did not want to get involved'

The musician then instead said he switched his attention to Oxford's old rival Cambridge, with whom he did successfully strike a partnership.

The programme saw him pay for the undergraduate fees of two students in 2018/19 and two the following term  as well as offering them maintenance grants, for up to four years.

Oxford initially denied Stormzy's comments, claiming to have not received or turned down any offer or proposal, but a spokesman subsequently admitted 'we take responsibility for missing an opportunity' and insisted they wanted talks to continue.

The university said its Black Academic Futures scholarship aims to rapidly increase applications from, and funded places for, well-qualified black students in the UK, which it says reinforces its commitment to addressing race equality and combating discrimination.

Further graduate funding opportunities for under-represented groups have also been launched by the university and colleges, with targeted scholarships for students in humanities and law.

Other measures are being taken to widen participation in programmes within the mathematical, physical and life sciences division, and medical sciences.

Each scholarship's value will depend on course costs and duration, with students receiving full payment of their fees - which could be across either three or four years - as well as a maintenance payment.

This will be offered at the UK Research Council rate, which is currently 15,285 per year but rises every 12 months, the Times reports.

The Stormzy scholarships at Cambridge went to four students over two years. Those who were awarded them were funded for four years

Professor Martin Williams, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Education at Oxford University, said: The University has made important steps in recognising and addressing the issue of graduate access and specifically the under-representation of Black students in academia in recent years, with a broad range of divisional, departmental and college initiatives, including scholarships.

'I am thrilled to announce The Black Academic Futures programme - the next step towards our vision of ensuring over time that finance is not a barrier to educational opportunity or pursuing graduate study at Oxford, and living up to our commitment to embody true inclusion.'

There has been a rise in the number of BAME applicants and those receiving offers in the last five years, with admission up from 14.5 per cent in 2015 in 22.1 per cent last year.

Nikita Ma, President of the Oxford University Students Union, said: 'Access and diversity has always been one of the key themes of the Student Union's lobbying work.

'It is very encouraging to see the university taking steps to widen access, and we are pleased to welcome this initiative to increase black representation at the graduate level.'

Oxford University and representatives for Stormzy have been approached for further comment.
Award Makes Software, Software Maintenance, and Related Services and Hardware from Carahsofts Portfolio of Leading Solutions Providers Available to Federal Agencies Worldwide

RESTON, Va., Oct. 01, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Carahsoft Technology Corp., The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider, today announced that it has been awarded an Information Technology Enterprise Solutions  Software 2 (ITES-SW2) contract from the U.S. Army Computer Hardware Enterprise Software and Solutions (CHESS), in coordination with the Army Contracting Command, Rock Island, to support the Armys IT software requirements. ITES-SW2 is open to ordering from the Department of Defense and all Federal agencies and authorized systems integrators on a worldwide basis. The contract is effective through August 30, 2025 with a five-year option period for a ten-year total period of performance.

Under the contract, Carahsoft will provide software, software maintenance, and related services and hardware to support Federal agencies enterprise infrastructure goals. These solutions are available from the following solutions providers:

 Accela, Inc.  Improbable LLC  Acquia, Inc.  InQuisient  Alteryx, Inc.  Intermap Technologies  ASG Technologies  Kove  Autodesk Inc.  Liferay, Inc.  Axon Enterprise, Inc.  LinkedIn Learning  Basis Technology  Mapbox  BlackBerry Limited  Markforged  Boeing  MarkLogic Corporation  CA Technologies  Measure UAS, Inc  ClearInsight Solutions  Micro Focus  CloudBees, Inc.  MongoDB, Inc.  Cloudera, Inc.  New Relic, Inc.  CollabNet | VersionOne  Nuvolo  Cubic Corporation  NVIDIA Corporation  Databricks  OSIsoft  Datameer  piXlogic, Inc.  Delphix  Priority 5  Digital Map Products, Inc.  Progress Software Corporation  Dun & Bradstreet, Inc.  Red Hat, Inc.  EnterpriseDB  SDL  GitLab  ServiceNow  Google Cloud  SolarWinds Worldwide, LLC.  Govini  Sonatype  Granicus  Splunk, Inc.  Hexagon US Federal  Sword GRC  Hootsuite  Symantec Corporation  Tech Soft 3D  UiPath  Terra Pixel, LLC  VMware, Inc.  Trifacta  Voyager Labs  Trimble Inc.  Zoom Video Communication, Inc.

Carahsoft is also able to leverage the expertise of its reseller partners to provide additional support for solution deployments and implementations. The companys solutions are available across all 14 product catalogs:



 Audio and Visual  Multimedia and Design  Business and Finance  NetOps  Communication  Office Suite  Database, Data Integration and Big Data  Operating Systems  Education  Programming and Development  Internet  IT Utility and Security  Modeling and Simulation  Specialized

This contract award opens up new avenues for the Carahsoft team to meet the needs of our Army and Federal customers wherever their missions may take them across the globe, said Craig P. Abod, Carahsoft President. We are excited to see many of our partners named to ITES-SW2 and look forward to working across the channel to support Federal agencies software requirements across these product catalogs.



Carahsoft has previously worked with CHESS as a vendor for the original Information Technology Enterprise Solutions  Software (ITES-SW) contract, which has been extended through October 12, 2020 to maintain uninterrupted access for Army customers seeking software and related services.

Carahsofts software, software maintenance, and related services and hardware from its portfolio of solutions providers are available through ITES-SW2 Contract W52P1J-20-D-0042. For more information on procurement and solutions, contact the ITES-SW2 contract team at (703) 871-8681 or ITES-SW2@carahsoft.com.

About Carahsoft

Carahsoft Technology Corp. is The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider. As a top-performing GSA Schedule and SEWP contract holder, Carahsoft serves as the Master Government Aggregator for many of its best-of-breed technology vendors, supporting an extensive ecosystem of manufacturers, value-added resellers, system integrators and consulting partners committed to helping government agencies select and implement the best solution at the best possible value.

The company's dedicated Solutions Divisions proactively market, sell and deliver VMware, AWS, Palo Alto Networks, Symantec, Veritas, McAfee, Dell, Adobe, F5 Networks, Google Cloud, ServiceNow, Open Source, Micro Focus Government Solutions, SAP, Salesforce, and Innovative and Intelligence products and services, among others. Carahsoft is consistently recognized by its partners as a top revenue producer and is listed annually among the industry's fastest growing and largest firms by CRN, Inc., Forbes, Washington Technology, The Washington Post, Washington Business Journal, and Bloomberg Government. Visit us at www.carahsoft.com or follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Contact

Mary Lange

(703) 230-7434

PR@carahsoft.com
This recipe originally appeared on Food52.

In the past decade, weve seen shakshuka crash onto brunch menus and Instagram feeds and Trader Joes starter kits the world over. Its shape-shifted into pizzas and pastas and collided, to eye-popping effect, with the avocado toast trend.

But if we take a pause and return to its North African then Middle Eastern roots, well also find a rich world of shakshuka to jostle our imagination, without even pouring it into a bread bowl. There are so many versions of shakshuka, all variations on the same theme of eggs cooked in a nice thick sauce, Sami Tamimi and Tara Wigley write in their beautiful new cookbook Falastin, which they published in June of this year after a decade of working, together and apart, on various projects in the Ottolenghi family.

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In Falastin, there are two shakshukasand there were almost three. Along with the easygoing recipe Im sharing here, the second version in Falastin is green, with braised eggs nestled in herbs and Swiss chard. The almost-third was yellow, with sunny bell peppers and green tomatoes that Sami and Tara decided werent accessible enough for the book (but are yet one more colorful direction to take shakshuka when you can).

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The laidback style that Sami grew up eating for breakfast in Palestine looked little like the one more widely known today. His eggs werent peeking up at him sunny-side, but scrambled into sauce-drunk ribbons. In this way, it has much in common with Turkish menemen and Yemeni shakshuka, both of which are simply scrambled, too.

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As with most of the recipes in Falastin, once the scrambled shakshuka of Samis childhood landed in the Ottolenghi Test Kitchen, it got some modern updates: crushed whole, toasted spices rather than ground, a marinated feta topping with bursts of coriander and chile.

Wed rather shine a new light on an old classic than recreate it verbatim. Doing thisplaying aroundis a risk, we know, Sami and Tara write, because loyalty is not, of course, just about the dish. Its about tradition and identity and being able to own these things through food. As they show in Falastin, there are plenty of ways to do so with a keen eye to the Palestinian pantry and the stories and recipes of its people. No need for bread bowls.

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Scrambling shakshukabeyond being lush and comforting, the eggs now freer to soak up the surrounding sauceis a boon to new cooks, perfectionists, and the yolk-phobic alike. Theres no wondering if your whites are firm and your yolks as gooey as you like. Scrambled eggs practically shout when theyre done and, when slow-cooking in a sauce this good, are incredibly resilient. They even stand up to reheatingso feel free to make too much.

Scrambled Red Shakshuka From Sami Tamimi & Tara Wigley

Serves 2, generously

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 1 1/2 ounces (45 grams) feta, roughly crumbled

 1/4 cup (5 grams) parsley leaves, roughly chopped

 3/4 teaspoon Aleppo chile flakes (or 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes)

 5 tablespoons (75 milliliters) olive oil

 1 1/2 teaspoons coriander seeds, lightly toasted and roughly crushed in a mortar and pestle

 1 yellow or white onion, thinly sliced (1 2/3 cups / 150 grams)

 1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into long slices, 1/2-inch / 1 centimeter thick (5 ounces / 140 grams)

 3 garlic cloves, crushed in a garlic press or minced

 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds, lightly toasted and roughly crushed in a mortar and pestle

 1 teaspoon tomato paste

 1/4 teaspoon paprika

 5 or 6 tomatoes, roughly chopped (18 ounces / 500 grams)

 2 1/2 ounces (75 grams) cherry tomatoes

 2 teaspoons red shatta (see recipe below) or rose harissa

 1/3 cup (80 milliliters) water

Salt and black pepper

 4 eggs, lightly beaten

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Shatta (optional)

 9 ounces (250 grams) red or green chiles (with seeds), stems trimmed, very thinly sliced

 1 tablespoon salt

 3 tablespoons cider vinegar

 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

 Extra-virgin olive oil, to cover

See the full recipe on Food52.

More from Food52:

Crispy Chicken Thighs With Garlic & Artichokes Are a Weeknight Win

Can You Swap Salted and Unsalted Butter in Baking?

The Sugar Cookie Recipe That Won Contests, Changed Lives

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Do You Really Need to Wash Rice? Nik Sharma Has Thoughts.

Introducing: Our Number One Fall Snack
Dr. Glenn Hurst, chair of the Iowa Democrats rural caucus, criticized the Trump-Pence approach to fighting COVID-19, calling it one of the worst in the developed world. Nationally, nearly 208,000 people have died.

Hurst, protesting across the street from the Pence event, said people should not accept a president who deflected when asked during Tuesdays debate to denounce white supremacy.

Pence, in his speech Thursday, described the presidents debate performance in glowing terms, saying that he took the fight to Biden and that he wouldnt expect anything less from Trump.

The vice president told the crowd he was preparing for his Oct. 7 debate with Harris in Salt Lake City.

Rally attendee Christopher Pfanstiel, 50, said Pence does a great job of balancing out Donald Trump. He rode a bus from the CHI Health Center and back in his Republican-red suit.

They make a great ticket together, he said.

Omaha resident Robert Urban, 78, said he lived in Eastern Europe for 20 months during the Cold War and said he fears what he called vestiges of socialism on the horizon.
Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - Libyan Minister of Finance of the Government of National Accord, Faraj Boumtari, has welcomed the achievement of financial surpluses in 2018 and 2019, despite the difficulties arising from wrong decisions, the blockade on oilfields and armed clashes
The guided missile destroyer USS Stout just finished a record 208 continuous days at sea.

The Navy kept the ship at sea due to the global coronavirus pandemic.

The record is impressive, but it wouldn't have been necessary if the Navy had enough ships to take its place at sea.

A U.S. Navy guided missile destroyer now holds the service record for the most continuous days at sea. The USS Stout spent close to seven months in the Middle East, watching over commercial shipping passing through the Strait of Hormuz opposite Iran. Navy brass kept the ship at sea due to the coronavirus outbreak, but the fact that sailors had to endure such a long patrol points to a broader problem: a major shortage of Navy warships.

 You love badass ships. So do we. Let's nerd out over them together.

As of September 28, the USS Stout, an Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer, spent 208 straight days at sea. The ship deployed as part of the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group in early 2020 to the 5th Fleet area of operations. Headquartered in Bahrain, 5th Fleets area of operations includes the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, North Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden, and the Red Sea.

The Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group departed the Middle East earlier this summer, but the USS Stout stayed on. The Navy says the USS Stout spent 139 days as part of Combined Task Force Sentinel, whose mission is to overwatch commercial ships as they pass through Strait of Hormuz.

The Strait is dominated on the northern side by the Islamic Republic of Iran, which has made threats to commercial shipping in the past. Stout, the Navy explained , provided overwatch for more than 550 vessels as they transited critical chokepoints and delivered 1,500 maritime awareness calls to regional commercial shipping.

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The USS Stout also served under the Navys Task Force 50, patrolling the Bab el Mandeb and Strait of Hormuz, and served alongside the USS Bataans Amphibious Ready Group practicing amphibious assaults.

Story continues

While its laudable that a U.S. Navy guided missile destroyer is capable of sailing for straight 208 days, the reality is the deployment put a huge strain on the sailors aboard the Stout and their families back home in Norfolk, Virginia. Navy warship deployments are rarely supposed to last more than six months, and are typically punctuated with shore liberty in interesting and exotic places during their route.

While the lack of shore liberty during a global pandemic is understandable, having sailors spend 208 uninterrupted days at sea is not. The only reasonable explanation for that excessive duration is that there wasn't another ship capable of taking its place.

The USS Stouts record is another example of a U.S. Navy without enough ships to do the tasks required of it. Today's expensive warships, cost overruns, and delays could have rippling consequences for decades to come, as the Navy must struggle to fulfill a global mission set with less than the ideal number of ships. The admirals promise a bigger fleet in 10 or 20 years, but thats of little comfort to sailors who must serve for months on end without seeing their families.

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Visitors watch the dolphins show while keeping one bench as safety distance at the Madrid Zoo Aquarium Park on August 25, 2020, in Madrid, Spain. Miguel Pereira | Getty Images News | Getty Images

There is cause for cautious optimism in some European countries battling the second wave of the coronavirus pandemic, as the rate of daily new infections starts to stabilize. Meanwhile, a report published Thursday bolstered hopes that the U.K. is getting its recent spike in coronavirus cases back under control. Imperial College London published the latest findings from an ongoing study into the prevalence of the virus in which it said that the coronavirus' reproduction (or R) number "had decreased from 1.7 to 1.1 ... but with a wide possible range for the recent value of 0.7 to 1.5." The R number indicates the number of secondary infections generated from one infected individual, on average. Scientists want to keep the R number below 1 to slow the spread of the disease. "This suggests that the rate of new infections has decreased, but an R above 1 would mean cases will continue to rise if current trends continue," Imperial scientists said, reporting the results from swab tests carried out on more than 80,000 people between Sept. 18 and 26 as part of its "REACT 1" study.

The study tracks current cases of Covid-19 in the community by testing more than 150,000 randomly-selected people each month over a two-week period. Volunteers take nose and throat swabs at home, which are then analyzed in a laboratory. Professor Paul Elliott, director of the REACT program at Imperial, said the results suggested some of the measures introduced in the U.K. to stop the spread of the virus, including the "rule of six" limiting social gatherings, could be having an effect. "While our latest findings show some early evidence that the growth of new cases may have slowed, suggesting efforts to control the infection are working, the prevalence of infection is the highest that we have recorded to date," he said. "This reinforces the need for protective measures to limit the spread of the disease and the public's adherence to these." The U.K. has seen some of its highest numbers of daily infections over the last week. On Wednesday, 7,108 many cases were reported, following 7,143 new cases on Tuesday, the highest daily rise in infections recorded so far.

Mixed signals

As well as the U.K., other European countries have tightened coronavirus measures to stem the spread of the virus, with measures including the re- introduction of localized lockdowns in some regions and cities and limiting the number of people that can socially gather, as well as the opening hours of pubs, bars and restaurants. Germany and Spain have both announced tougher regional measures this week to curb spikes in coronavirus cases, particularly in urban areas, with outbreaks traced to family gatherings. Major European countries that have seen spikes are also seeing what could be signs that the daily number of infections, while still high, are tentatively starting to stabilize and decline, in some cases  but not all. In Spain, daily counts of infections remain high, hovering around the 10,000 mark this week with around 11,000 registered Wednesday, but a tentative decline in new cases is being seen. Spanish health ministry data points to a decline.
The province does not support the Manitoba Metis Federations move to establish a controlled and limited moose harvest, stated Minister of Agriculture and Resource Development Blaine Pedersen in an email to The Brandon Sun late Wednesday.

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This article was published 1/10/2020 (478 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

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The province does not support the Manitoba Metis Federations move to establish a controlled and limited moose harvest, stated Minister of Agriculture and Resource Development Blaine Pedersen in an email to The Brandon Sun late Wednesday.

"The Government of Manitoba does not support this unilateral declaration from the MMF that was made without legislative authority, enforcement mechanisms or consultation with Indigenous and non-Indigenous harvesters," stated Pedersen.

Pedersen further stated the province has a long history of respectful consultations with First Nation and Metis communities in its role as the Crown ultimately responsible for the sustainable management of Manitobas wildlife.

"These consultations included those that led to the establishment of the Duck and Porcupine Mountains moose hunting conservation closures established in 2011 and night hunting consultations," according to Pedersen.

Earlier this year, the 2020 big game aerial survey results were released and shared with First Nation and Metis communities and non-Indigenous harvesters affected by conservation closures, while also requesting feedback and input, he stated. Despite these conservation closures, moose populations have not recovered in these areas as quickly as initially anticipated.

Despite those statements, Pedersen said that, based on the results of recent aerial population surveys, it believes these areas can provide a limited harvest opportunity without significantly jeopardizing long-term population recovery.

"Manitoba created the means to provide a controlled limited moose hunting opportunity in these areas last fall and Manitoba is in the process of contacting eligible communities and organizations for this interim moose hunting opportunity for the fall of 2020," he stated.

The interim hunt opportunities can be granted under Section 4.3 of the Moose Conservation Closure Regulations.

 mletourneau@brandonsun.com

 Michele LeTourneau covers Indigenous matters for The Brandon Sun under the Local Journalism Initiative, a federally funded program that supports the creation of original civic journalism.
New Delhi, Oct 1 : A fight broke out between two thieves who had entered an MCD school in east Delhi's Kalyanpuri to steal mercury lights, resulting in the death of one of them after he was pushed off the roof of the school.

The matter came to light when on Wednesday when people called police after foul smell started emanating from the water sewage tank of the MCD school situated at block 7 in Khichripur. Police reached the spot and a decomposed male body from a sewage tank was found.

Accordingly, a murder case was registered in Police Station Kalyanpuri and investigation was started.

The deceased was identified as 21-year-old Aslam, a resident of jhuggi Khichripur. The deceased's mother stated she had last seen her son with one Noor who also resides in Khichripur.

"Therafter information about Noor was developed as he was not present in his jhuggi. Noor was traced to the house of his uncle and from there he was arrested. On sustained interrogation he disclosed that he and Aslam had gone to the MCD school to steal mercury street lights. They entered the school by climbing the tree near the wall of the school. After stealing the lights, they had a quarrel over the distribution of the stolen items. During the quarrel, Noor pushed Aslam from the roof of the school which led to his death," said Jasmeet Singh, DCP East.

Noor then panicked and ran away from the spot leaving all the stolen material and dead body on the spot. Earlier on examination, a plastic sheet was spotted in the water sewage tank of MCD school. After close inspection of the sheet it was observed that this sheet was used to wrap the dead body for disposal.

On the basis of some text written on the sheet, it was found that these sheets are used to pack school stationery and they are kept in the storeroom of the school. The storeroom keys were with the watchman of the school identified as Rajkumar.

"On thorough interrogation of Rajkumar, he disclosed that on finding the dead body in the school premises he panicked as security of school is his duty. On fear of losing his job he disposed off the body in a water tank by using a plastic sheet and cleaned the whole area. Both the accused have been arrested," said the officer.
OTTAWAConservative Leader Erin OTooles worry that a conversion therapy ban could criminalize parents or preachers talking to kids about gender and sexuality is a total red herring, according to professor and advocate Kristopher Wells.

The Liberal government reintroduced legislation Thursday that criminalizes forcing minors into conversion therapy, a discredited pseudo-scientific treatment aimed at changing a persons sexuality to heterosexual.

OToole told the House of Commons Thursday while he opposes conversion therapy, the language of the bill could criminalize conversations about gender and sexuality between parents, faith leaders and teachers with children.

But Kristopher Wells, the Canada Research Chair specializing in gender and sexuality minority youth issues at MacEwan University, said that threat doesnt actually exist.

Conversion therapy is a very deliberate practice thats designed to fundamentally change, alter or repress a persons sexuality orientation, gender identity or gender expression, Wells said in an interview Thursday.

In any conversation, regardless of who is having it  so long as theyre not starting that conversation with the intent to try to convince somebody to change who they are, or starting from an anti-LGBTQ premise that being LGBTQ is not acceptable  then theres nothing to worry about.

Bill C-6 doesnt outright ban conversion therapy  adults can still consent to such treatment  but it creates new criminal offences for forcing conversion therapy on minors and adults, removing a minor from Canada to undergo conversion therapy, and on advertising or profiting from conversion therapy services.

But OToole told the House of Commons Thursday that, as drafted, the legislation could criminalize interactions between parents, faith leaders and teachers with children on issues of sexuality or gender identity.

Conversion therapy is wrong. And in my view, it should be banned, OToole told MPs.

(But) most Canadians dont want conversations between a parent and a child, or a religious leader or a teacher and a young person, criminalized either  I know (the LGBTQ community) doesnt want to criminalize the conversations of others. Because a community that has been unfairly persecuted for generations does not want to start unfairly persecuting others.

In fact, the Department of Justices summary of the bill explicitly says that the new offences would not cover private conversations in which personal views on sexual orientation, sexual feelings or gender identity are expressed.

A Conservative source told the Star Thursday that the legislation would be discussed at an upcoming caucus meeting, with the intention of finding a way for the party to support the legislation.

One possible amendment, the source suggested, would be to include similar language to that used in the Justice Departments summary of the bill in the actual legislation  making it clear that private conversations, so long as theyre not coercive, would not fall under the new criminal offences.

Speaking to reporters Thursday, Justice Minister David Lametti said that the government is prepared to work in good faith at the committee stage to make sure that we get it right  leaving the door open to possible amendments.

But Lametti also said the government believes they do have it right when it comes to criminalizing conversion therapy without criminalizing private conversations.

Were not criminalizing ordinary conversations that adults have or a pastor or someone might have in the legitimate exploration of identity with someone, Lametti said.

What were trying to do is create an architecture where the young person is comfortable saying no, you cant do this. Weve had the conversation. Stop. Done.
Hathras gang-rape: Mamata Banerjee terms 'forceful' cremation of victim's body as 'shameful'

India

oi-Ajay Joseph Raj P

Kolkata, Oct 01: Terming the Hathras gang-rape incident as "barbaric and shameful", West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday said the "forceful cremation" of the victim has exposed those who use lofty promise and slogans to seek votes.

A 19-year-old Dalit woman was raped in Hathras in BJP-ruled Uttar Pradesh by four men on September 14. After her condition deteriorated, she was referred to Delhi's Safdarjung hospital where she breathed her last on Tuesday.

Hathras gang-rape-case: Ahead of Priyanka, Rahul Gandhi's visit, Section 144 imposed in Hathras

"Have no words to condemn the barbaric & shameful incident at Hathras involving a young Dalit girl. My deepest condolences to the family. More shameful is the forceful cremation without the family's presence or consent, exposing those who use slogans & lofty promises for votes." Banerjee said on Twitter.

The body of the woman was cremated in Hathras in the early hours of Wednesday, with her family alleging that the local police forced them to conduct the last rites in the dead of night. Local police officers, however, said that the cremation was carried out "as per the wishes of the family".

Hathras rape victim burnt like orphan under police force: Sonia

Meanwhile, Congress party in-charge of Uttar Pradesh Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and brother Rahul Gandhi is expected to make a visit to the family of the Hathras gangrape victim today. Ahead of their visit, Section 144 has been imposed in Hathras.

Priyanka Gandhi spoke to the victim's family and had assured them that she would visit their home. "Planning is being done, she can go anytime," sources said.

Hathras gang-rape case: NHRC issues notice to Uttar Pradesh govt, state police chief

Hathras sealed ahead of Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi's visit|Oneindia News

On September 14, a 19-year-old Dalit woman was gang-raped allegedly by four upper-case men at Hathras. The victim succumbed to her injuries at Safdarjung hospital in New Delhi on Tuesday, a day after she was admitted there. She had suffered multiple fractures, paralysis and had been left struggling to breathe. Her body was cremated in the absence of her family members, in the wee hours of Wednesday.

Condemning the incident, Rahul Gandhi said on Twitter, "All this is a shameful move of the UP government to suppress the Dalits and show them their "place" in the society. Our fight is against this hateful thinking."
PALO ALTO, Calif., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- This week Ameren joined a growing number of utilities pledging to reduce carbon emissions to net-zero by 2050.

Ameren's announcement to reduce emissions across its operations in Missouri and Illinois comes just a week after Entergy said it would accelerate its climate action goal to cut carbon emissions across its fleet of power plants to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

Ameren's net-zero announcement was paired with its plan to expand solar and wind generation in its fleet and retire its entire coal-fired fleet by 2042. Retirements will begin in two years.

Ameren's Chairman and CEO said the company's plan was a "transformative" one that accelerates its transition to "clean energy."

Ameren Missouri said it would continue to invest in carbon-free energy sources--nuclear, hydro and solar, which comprise about 30% of its generation mix. But the company said it would consider "additional clean energy innovations."

The two utility giantsAmeren and Entergy--are among the most recent powerhouses to set the net-zero target.

Over the past three years, other major utilities, such as Richmond-based Dominion Energy, Charlotte-based Duke Energy, Atlanta-based Southern Company, Minneapolis-based Xcel Energy, Newark-based Public Service Enterprise Group (PSEG), Detroit-based DTE Energy, and Milwaukee-based WEC Energy Group, have all pledged to reduce emissions from utility operations to net-zero by 2050.

In a statement, Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) President Arshad Mansoor said:

"I applaud Ameren and Entergy for showing leadership within the electric power industry toward a decarbonized future. Utilities already provide reliable and affordable electricity while reducing emissions and protecting environmental quality.

"All of these utilities that have pledged to reduce emissions to net-zero by 2050 have sent a message to our industry that we need to continue our efforts to advance technologies and alternative fuels that will underpin our environmental and sustainability efforts.

"What seems like an ambitious target is attainable. Innovation drives this goal. Our team at EPRI and our colleagues at the Gas Technology Institute are leading an industry-wide research and development consortiumthe Low Carbon Resources Initiative --to unearth, develop, demonstrate and deploy low-carbon technologies that will help utilities like Entergy achieve those emission reduction goals. We continue to build the consortium.

"The blueprint to net zero is EPRI's Project 2X to 2050, which ramps up energy efficiency, cleaner electricity generation, efficient electrification and the use of alternatives fuels. Fundamental advances in a variety of low-carbon electric generation technologies and low-carbon chemical energy carriers -- such as clean hydrogen, bioenergy, and renewable natural gas -- are needed to enable affordable pathways to economy-wide decarbonization."

About EPRI

The Electric Power Research Institute, Inc. (EPRI, www.epri.com) conducts research and development relating to the generation, delivery and use of electricity for the benefit of the public. An independent, nonprofit organization, EPRI brings together its scientists and engineers as well as experts from academia and industry to help address challenges in electricity, including reliability, efficiency, affordability, health, safety and the environment. EPRI members represent 90% of the electricity generated and delivered in the United States with international participation extending to 40 countries. EPRI's principal offices and laboratories are located in Palo Alto, Calif.; Charlotte, N.C.; Knoxville, Tenn.; Dallas, Texas; Lenox, Mass.; and Washington, D.C.

Contact:

Dipka Bhambhani

Director, External Relations and Communications

202.321.3337

[email protected]

SOURCE Electric Power Research Institute
With 1.3 billion people jostling for space, India has always been a hospitable environment for infectious diseases. And the coronavirus has proved to be no exception: The country now has more than 6 million cases, second only to the United States.

An ambitious study of nearly 85,000 of those cases and nearly 600,000 of their contacts, published Wednesday in the journal Science, offers important insights not just for India but for other low- and middle-income countries.

Among the surprises: The median hospital stay before death from COVID-19, the illness caused by the coronavirus, was five days in India, compared with two weeks in the United States, possibly because of limited access to quality care. And the trend in increasing deaths with age seemed to drop off after age 65  perhaps because Indians who live past that age tend to be relatively wealthy and have access to good health care.

The contact-tracing study also found that children of all ages can become infected with the coronavirus and spread it to others  offering compelling evidence on one of the most divisive questions about the virus.

And the report confirmed, as other studies have, that a small number of people are responsible for seeding a vast majority of new infections.

An overwhelming majority of coronavirus cases globally have occurred in resource-poor countries, noted Joseph Lewnard, an epidemiologist at the University of California, Berkeley, who led the study.

India recorded its first case of COVID-19 on Jan. 30 in an Indian citizen evacuated from China.

The study focused on two southern Indian states, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, which together have a population of about 128 million and represent two of the five Indian states with the most cases. They also have among the most sophisticated health care systems in the country.

Contact tracers reached more than 3 million contacts of the 435,539 cases in these two states. The researchers analyzed data for 575,071 contacts for whom test information was available.

The contact-tracing data revealed that the people infected first were more likely to be male and older than their contacts. Lewnard and his colleagues also looked at infections in contacts by age and sex and found that infected people tend to spread the virus to those of similar ages. Overall, the researchers found, just 5% of people accounted for 80% of the infections detected by contact tracing.

Apoorva Mandavilli@c.2020 The New York Times Company
In this article BABA

Attendees pass by an Alibaba.com display at CES 2019 in Las Vegas. David Becker | Getty Images

SINGAPORE  Chinese tech giant Alibaba needs to look beyond China and Southeast Asia in order to sustain current levels of growth, an analyst said Thursday. With more than 750 million active users in China, Alibaba is at a point where it is beginning to hit saturation, according to Gil Luria, director of research at D.A. Davidson. The company is already talking about lower-tier Chinese cities as potential growth avenues but Luria said the markets there are not as fertile as the top-tier cities and there is already stiff competition in those places. "Their growth is going to have to come from outside of China," he said on CNBC's "Squawk Box Asia" on Thursday. "For them to sustain the levels of growth they have right now, with China approaching saturation, Southeast Asia is only going to carry them for so long before they have to get into some of those other markets in order to sustain this growth."

Some of those potential growth markets include Latin America and Africa where e-commerce penetration still has room for growth and China has some influence. Alibaba has a presence in Southeast Asia through e-commerce platform Lazada, in which it owns a majority stake. The tech giant currently makes most of its revenue from its China retail marketplaces that include shopping platforms like Taobao and Tmall, as well as its online-to-offline grocery chain. But its cloud computing business is said to be a critical component of future growth where Alibaba faces stiff competition from the likes of Amazon, Microsoft and Google. The company said this week it expects the cloud business to become profitable in the current fiscal year for the first time. Howard Yu, a professor of management and innovation at IMD Business School, said earlier this week on CNBC's "Capital Connection" that Alibaba may find it "almost impossible" to meaningfully penetrate markets in Western Europe and the United States due to policy and perception toward data.

U.S.-China tensions

The U.S. and China are locked in a battle for technology dominance. As a result, Washington has stepped up its efforts to limit the presence of Chinese tech companies in the U.S. market, often citing national security concerns  in some cases, the U.S. has alleged that American user data collected by Chinese companies could be access by the Chinese government. Tencent, which owns the massive social messaging platform WeChat, faces a potential ban in the United States. ByteDance, the owner of the popular short-video sharing app TikTok, has been forced to make a deal with Oracle and Walmart for the app's U.S. operations to continue. Telecommunications giant Huawei, semiconductor firm SMIC and others are facing export restrictions in buying vital equipment from suppliers due to U.S. sanctions.
The Vice President, Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia says government will not engage the separatist group which is seeking the independence of some parts of the Volta Region.

According to the Vice President, the groups assertion of the Western Togoland territory was a figment of their imagination.



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He said in a radio interview on Accra-based Asempa FM that, the actions of the group were criminal and must be condemned by all.



Negotiation with criminals? On what basis? Then we will be open to many things and tomorrow you go somewhere and another group will also come and say they are the northern territories [seeking independence]. It will not happen. It doesnt make sense, the Vice President said.



The Mamprusis, Gonjas, Oti people are part of Ghana. They have not expressed interest in going anywhere so where is this figment of a Western Togoland? Where is it? Is it Ho? Kpando or Kpeve? There is no legal basis for those demands. It is criminal and so Ghana must come together Some criminals are trying to misrepresent history and engage in criminal activities, he added.



Background



Thirty-one persons are currently in the custody of the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI) after they were arrested for causing mayhem at entry points in the Volta Region and attacking security personnel on Friday, September 25, 2020.



The alleged members which include a female were arraigned before the Accra High Court on Monday on provisional charges of attending a meeting of a prohibited organisation, conspiracy, participating in a campaign of a prohibited organisation and rioting.



The accused persons are believed to be part of a group group agitating for the restoration of the Western Togoland as an independent state from Ghana







Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 16:26:43|Editor: huaxia

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MANILA, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- The number of confirmed coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases in the Philippines surged to 314,079 after the Philippines' Department of Health (DOH) reported 2,415 new daily cases on Thursday.

The DOH said that the number of recoveries also rose to 254,223 after 771 more patients recovered. Meanwhile, 59 more patients died from the viral disease, bringing the death toll to 5,562.

Metro Manila topped the regions in the country with the highest number of daily confirmed cases on Thursday with 930.

The DOH said over 3.52 million people in the Philippines have been tested so far. The Philippines has a population of about 109 million.

Meanwhile, 9,613 healthcare workers have contracted the coronavirus since the disease emerged in the country in January, and 61 died from the disease, the DOH said.

In as early as mid-April, the DOH has embarked on an emergency hiring of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers as part of the government's effort to strengthen its healthcare system.

The DOH said the government needs at least 10,693 people to beef up the medical staff in hospitals and laboratories following the surge of COVID-19 cases.

Out of the 10,693, the country's Department of Labor and Employment said on Thursday 8,056 healthcare workers have been hired so far. Nurses account for the largest chunk of hires by profession, followed by medical technologists. Enditem
WILLEMSTAD:--- HNLMS Groningen has again stopped 2 drug shipments in the Caribbean. This concerns the 4th and 5th catch within a month. Last Saturday, the navy ship intercepted almost 284 kilos of drugs, and on Monday even 1,720 kilos of cocaine and 29 kilos of crystal meth.

How much was actually taken off the market cannot be said with certainty. During the catch last weekend, the suspects managed to throw everything overboard before they could be stopped. At least 284 kilos have been fished out of the water.

The suspected smugglers dumped the cargo from their go-fast when they saw an on-board helicopter from the English naval vessel RFA Argus. They then took off but were overtaken by 2 FRISCs. These fast interception boats were deployed by the Groningen.

No drugs were found onboard other than the cargo fished from the sea. The 3 suspects have been handed over to the US Coast Guard.

Double stroke

Monday was another hit. Together with the RFA Argus and her helicopters, the navy patrol ship managed to stop another go-fast.

Also this time, the FRISCs of the Groningen caught up with the suspects. Several bales of contraband were found near the drug boat. The cocaine and crystal meth were confiscated during this interception.

HNLMS Groningen will be active in the region as a station ship in the Caribbean from July 2020. The ship will combine counter-drug operations with the support of the Caribbean Coast Guard. This month, the Groningen, in collaboration with international partners, managed to intercept a total of 1 ton of cocaine in 3 previous campaigns. This brings the total for this month to about 3 tons.
Asia Hong Kong Activist Joshua Wong Indicted for Mask Protest

Prominent Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong appears at the citys Eastern Magistracy on Sept. 30, 2020 for joining an anti-mask law protest last October. / Kyodo
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-02 05:27:26|Editor: huaxia

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SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Jay Inslee, governor of the U.S. state of Washington, on Thursday said that Boeing's decision to move all 787 Dreamliner production to South Carolina is an insult to the aerospace workers of the state.

"Washington state remains the best place in the world to build airplanes. Boeing's success as a company is a credit to the workers and taxpayers of Washington state. Today's announcement is an insult to the hardworking aerospace employees who build 787s," Inslee said in a statement after the company announcing the decision on consolidating 787 Dreamliner production in a single location.

Boeing said on Thursday it will consolidate production of 787 jets at its facility in North Charleston, South Carolina, starting in mid-2021, according to the company's best estimate.

Boeing began assembling 787-8 and 787-9 airplanes at its Everett site in Washington state in 2007, and brought the North Charleston facility in South Carolina on line as a second final assembly line in 2010.

According to Inslee, he had asked Boeing's leadership what the company needed to keep 787 production in Washington state, but the company demanded nothing.

"I understand the serious market forces Boeing faces today. What I don't understand is why the company can't commit to restoring production here when the market for this plane improves," Inslee complained.

"This news falls hardest on the more than 1,000 Washington workers who build the 787, and many more who face uncertainty as a result of this decision," he noted.

Inslee reaffirmed in the statement that the aerospace industry will remain a major employer in the state with about 70,000 workers. The state is committed to maintaining support for those companies and workers.

But Boeing's decision to take the 787 to South Carolina necessitates a review of their partnership and the company's favorable tax treatment, Inslee said, adding that "there remains a competitive business environment for aerospace manufacturing in our state."

The company in late July reported second-quarter revenue of 11.8 billion U.S. dollars, GAAP loss per share of 4.20 dollars, primarily reflecting the impacts of COVID-19 and the 737 MAX grounding. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted air travel and reduced near-term demand, resulting in lower production and delivery rate assumptions.

In Commercial Airplanes Programs, Boeing has delivered a total of 20 aircraft in the second quarter of 2020. The delivery included two 777Fs to China Southern Airlines in May. The backlog included over 4,500 airplanes valued at 326 billion U.S. dollars.

To align to the sharp reduction in commercial market demand in light of COVID-19, the company is taking several actions including further adjusting commercial airplane production rates and reducing employment levels. Enditem
Republicans Call for Aggressive, Smart Tax Incentives to Compete With China

WASHINGTONThe pandemic has exposed serious flaws in global supply chains, prompting a committee of Republican lawmakers to push for aggressive, smart tax incentives to help relocate key supply chains back to the United States.

The China Task Force, made up of 15 House Republicans, released a report on Sept. 30 with more than 400 recommendations to counter threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

The committee called for decreasing dependence on China and supporting manufacturing capabilities in the areas of semiconductors, critical minerals, and pharmaceuticals.

This pandemic exposed various U.S. supply chain vulnerabilities, the dangers of U.S. overreliance on the PRC, and the need for a more robust domestic medical and technological manufacturing capacity, the report said.

To better protect U.S. economic and national security, the committee calls for aggressive, smart, and targeted tax incentives for research and development and production of key medicines, medical supplies, ingredients, tests, and vaccines.

It is imperative that the U.S. develop market-based incentives without imposing sweeping government mandates or controls in order to increase U.S. domestic manufacturing, the report said.

The overhaul of the federal tax law in 2017 reduced the U.S. corporate tax rate to 21 percent from 35 percent, making the United States more competitive. Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden, however, has pledged to raise the corporate tax rate to 28 percent.

Congress and the Trump administration should keep U.S. tax rates globally competitive, the report urges, to attract domestic manufacturing and spur innovation.

The panel also asked Congress and the administration to make securing supply chains the top priority in trade and economic discussions with allies and like-minded nations. It also suggested the administration begin trade agreement negotiations with Taiwan.

The U.S. response so far has been too slow and reactive; it has failed to establish a threat-specific supply-chain strategy and expand partnerships, the report said.

If a country monopolizes the production of a critical medicine, the task force warns, it could substantially lift drug prices or reduce supply when it wishes to retaliate against the United States. And the CCP has dramatically increased its leverage by becoming a critical link in the global supply chains of many essential everyday items that Americans rely on.

Tech Competition

The report also highlights the need to protect the U.S. semiconductor industry, which is critical for numerous modern technologies and innovation.

The United States has over the years lost its advanced semiconductor manufacturing capabilities. While the country is still the global leader in intellectual property and design of semiconductors, nearly 90 percent of the worlds chips are produced overseas, according to the report.

The committee urges the government to create a grant program and tax incentives to secure the U.S. supply of advanced semiconductors.

China seeks to become a global leader in key emerging technologies such as advanced robotics, artificial intelligence, electric cars, and bio-pharmaceuticals, as outlined in its Made in China 2025 national strategic blueprint. The program mobilizes state-owned enterprises, uses massive government subsidies, and forces technology transfer from foreign companies to take control of the industries of the future.

The United States and its allies are also at a growing disadvantage, the report states, because Beijing controls the bulk of the global supply of critical and strategic minerals, including rare earth elements. This makes the electronics and high-tech industries as well as the defense industrial base more vulnerable. The committee recommended overhauling the federal permitting process for mineral development and prioritizing advancements in mineral refining.

Hours after the reports release, President Donald Trump issued an executive order declaring a national emergency to deal with the threat posed by overreliance on critical minerals from foreign adversaries. The order seeks to ramp up domestic production of critical minerals and support mining jobs to reduce reliance on China.

Slave Labor

The report highlights the dire fact that concentration camps are being used as a feeder system for forced labor throughout the Chinese economy. According to human rights groups, supply chains of many famous global brands, including Apple, Gap, and Nike, use forced labor, and U.S. consumers unwittingly buy these forced-labor-made goods.

It is almost certain that the closet of every American has clothes spun with cotton produced by the slave labor of a people subjected to ongoing crimes against humanity, the report stated.

Speaking at a press conference, House GOP leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) said theres an urgent need to modernize the U.S. government to counter the threats posed by the CCP.

When you look at the Department of Treasury, they have a team that can focus on sanctions when it comes to North Korea or Iran, but they do not have a team that focuses on China, he told reporters on Sept. 30.

Republicans started the task force in May; Democrats originally agreed to participate in the process but pulled out before its launch.

Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-Wis.) said in a statement that the report kept the spirit of bipartisanship, with more than two-thirds of its legislative recommendations being backed by both parties.

The task force drafted the report in several months, interviewing more than 100 individuals, including Obama-era Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, and former Google CEO Eric Schmidt. The report addresses six challenges posed by the CCP: ideological competition, supply chains, national security, technology, economics and energy, and competitiveness.
Responding to a summon issued by the Mumbai Police in connection with a rape case filed against him by actress Payal Ghosh, filmmaker Anurag Kashyap arrived at Versova station for questioning on Thursday. Anurag has been asked to appear before the police for further probe into the case registered against him nine days back.

Bollywood

Maharashtra: Film director Anurag Kashyap reaches Versova Police station in Mumbai to appear before the police in connection with the alleged sexual assault against actor Payal Ghosh. pic.twitter.com/dWKbrmxHji ANI (@ANI) October 1, 2020

An FIR was registered against Anurag on September 22 after the actress along with her lawyer Nitin Satpute approached the police, the official said. In her police complaint, the actress alleged that Anurag raped her in 2013.

On Tuesday, the alleged victim and Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale met Maharashtra Governor B S Koshyari to seek action against Kashyap. After the meeting, Ramdas told reporters that the governor said he will speak with Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh on the issue.

On Monday, Ghosh in a joint media press conference with Athawale, president of the Republican Party of India (RPI-A), demanded that Kashyap be arrested. Athawale on Monday met Mumbais joint commissioner of police (law and order) Vishwas Nangare Patil along with Ghosh, seeking action against the filmmaker.

The Union minister had also said his party will stage a protest if the police do not arrest Anurag in a week. The Versova police last week registered the FIR against Anurag under Indian Penal Code Sections 376 (I) (rape), 354 (assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty,), 341 (wrongful restraint) and 342 (wrongful confinement).

(With PTI inputs)
Four days after fighting broke out between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region, tensions between the major powers are escalating. Amid reports that Turkey and Syrian Islamist militias are sending mercenaries to Azerbaijan to fight a war on Russias borders, the risk is growing of a clash between Russia and Turkey, launching a regional or global war.

While Azeri forces do not appear to have advanced far into Nagorno-Karabakh, casualties are mounting as precision weapons rain down on towns across the region. Armenian officials said yesterday they had lost 104 troops and that at least seven civilians had been killed since the fighting began. Azeri officials gave no statistics on military losses but confirmed that 15 Azeri civilians were killed.

An Armenian soldier fires an artillery piece during fighting with Azerbaijans forces in the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh

Online videos show air and drone strikes inflicting substantial losses to military units and equipment. Armenian officials claim to have destroyed 83 drones, seven helicopters, 166 armored vehicles, one warplane and one missile battery, and to have caused 920 casualties. Azerbaijan claims to have destroyed 130 armored vehicles, 200 artillery and missile launch systems, 25 air defense missile batteries and one S-300 air defense system, while inflicting 2,300 casualties.

Arayik Harutyunyan, the president of the unofficial Armenian authority in Nagorno-Karabakh, warned: We must be prepared for a long war.  The war will end with the defeat of Azerbaijan, or at least not with a victory.

Significantly, Harutyunyan added that Iran is one of the main targets of Turkish-backed Azeri operations. He said, I want to say that one of the targets of this war (fighting on the contact line) is Iran because this war is directed, among other things, against Iran. We are aware of regional problems related, in particular, to the north of Iran, where there is a substantial Azeri population. Iranian officials fear separatist sentiment could emerge among Iranian Azeris in favor of possibly seceding from Iran and joining Azerbaijan.

This is the bloodiest Armenian-Azeri fighting since the 19881994 war between the two ex-Soviet republics, which erupted shortly before the Stalinist regime dissolved the Soviet Union in 1991. It is now however deeply enmeshed in the innumerable geopolitical rivalries, imperialist wars and local ethnic conflicts that have spread across the Middle East and Central Asia in the three decades since the dissolution of the Soviet Union. In particular, the war is unfolding amid a growing campaign by US imperialism to isolate and threaten both Iran and Russia.

Turkish officials are aggressively supporting the ethnically-Turkic Azeris against Armenia. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called on Azeris to expel Armenia from Nagorno-Karabakh and pledged that the Turkish people stand with their Azeri brothers with all our means. This intensifies tensions with Armenias main regional backer, Russia, under conditions where Russia and Turkey are already waging bloody proxy wars against each other in the civil wars triggered by NATO regime-change operations in Libya and Syria over the last decade.

Armenian officials said that they are discussing military aid with Russia and the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), which includes the post-Soviet republics of Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan called Russian President Vladimir Putin and French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss the war. On Russias Rossiya1 channel, he called the war a threat to the Armenian peoples very existence.

Last week, Russian-Turkish talks over Syrias northwestern Idlib province broke down. There are expectations of a Russian-backed offensive by Syrian government troops against Islamist rebels supported by Turkey and the NATO powers. Turkish drone and air defense systems have, however, proven an obstacle to deploying Russian and Syrian aircraft and heavy artillery to support Syrian and Iranian infantry against the Al Qaeda-linked, CIA-backed Islamist militias.

There had already been reports that Islamist militias and Turkish private security firms are hiring fighters to deploy to Azerbaijan. On Tuesday, the Guardian interviewed Syrians from Idlib hired by Islamist militias for 7,00010,000 Turkish liras (US$9001,300) monthly, for security work in Azerbaijan. There are no jobs available. I used to work as a tailor in Aleppo but since we were displaced to Azaz [after Aleppo fell to Assad in 2016], Ive tried many times to practice my craft but my family and I cant earn enough, one explained to the Guardian.

The Center for Global Policy think-tank in Washington D.C. cold-bloodedly confirmed the story to the Guardian: The international community regards the lives of Syrians as expendable, with Syria serving as an arena to settle geo-strategic scores and advance the interests of countries intervening in the country at Syrians expense.  [T]he economic ruin stemming from the war and the recent depreciation of the Syrian currency mean that most Syrians are now struggling to feed themselves. Faced with few choices, many are now willing to sell themselves to the highest bidder.

The Turkish government responded with an ambiguous statement that The Turkish ministry of defense does not deal with recruiting or transferring militiamen anywhere in the world, without addressing the role of private firms or militias.

These reports drastically increase diplomatic and military tensions between the major powers. In the 1990s, as ethnic tensions mounted in Russia after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, civil wars broke out in nearby, Muslim-majority areas of Russia, like Chechnya and Daghestan. Moscow no doubt views the arrival of Syrian Islamist militias on its doorstep in Azerbaijan with alarm.

The Russian Foreign Ministry published yesterday a statement declaring: Militants of illegal armed groups, in particular from Syria and Libya [have traveled to Azerbaijan] to directly participate in the hostilities. It stressed that it was deeply concerned about deployments of Islamist militias, which create long-term threats to the security of all countries in the region. Without naming Turkey or Azerbaijan, it demanded the leaderships of the states concerned stop such transfers and immediately withdraw Islamist troops from Azerbaijan.

President Emmanuel Macron of France, which backs opposing sides to Turkey in the Libyan civil war and supports Greek maritime claims against Turkey in the Mediterranean, also attacked Turkish policy in the Caucasus yesterday. France is very worried about Turkeys warlike statements in recent hours, that basically give a green light to Azerbaijan to reconquer Nagorno-Karabakh. That we do not accept, Macron said at a press conference in Riga, Latvia, where he was traveling to discuss the election crisis in Belarus.

A striking aspect of this Armenian-Azeri war has been the silence of Washington, which together with Moscow and Paris nominally chairs the Minsk Group tasked since 1992 with overseeing talks to manage the Armenian-Azeri conflict. However, Washington made no significant call for restraint. US President Donald Trump made only a brief statement, saying, Well see if we can stop it.

Thomas de Waal of the Carnegie Foundation-Europe called Washington unusually disengaged, and the risk of further escalation and mass destruction alarmingly high. He added, Washington was the last major international actor to issue a statement, indicating a retreat from interest in this region. It is arguably also a sign that President Donald Trumpsponsor of the never-completed Trump Tower in Bakuviews Armenia and Azerbaijan solely through a business perspective.

In fact, Washington has for decades sought to dominate the Middle East and Central Asia as the key to its geopolitical strategy towards Europe, Russia and East Asia. As US forces threaten Russia with military exercises in neighboring Ukraine and bomb Iranian-aligned militias in Iraq, it appears that Washington is content to let this conflict escalate while it focuses on threatening Moscow and Tehran.

The war in the Caucasus is a stark warning of the bankruptcy of the nation-state system and the rising danger of large-scale war posed by national and ethnic conflicts across Eurasia. It is urgent to mobilize and unify the working class in an international movement against imperialism, nationalism and war.
Some experts speculate that the immune system is what makes a super-spreader. It may not be as effective at suppressing the virus and means an individual unknowingly transmits infections to far more people than the majority do. Others theorise some people are simply virus "super-shedders". But it is also likely to be fuelled by biological and environmental factors, including getting a higher dose of the virus to begin with, and those who are infected coming into contact with more people. Super-spreading is not exclusive to SARS-CoV-2. It has been documented as far back as the early 1900s. Cook, Mary Mallon, spread typhoid fever to more than 50 people in the early years of the 20th century. A big, burly man, with a large set of lungs who is exercising, for example, has the makings of a super-spreader. It is impossible to always determine who might be super-spreader but there are factors at play that greatly increase the threat.

A big, burly man with a large set of lungs who is exercising, for example, has the makings of a super-spreader. "The bigger the lungs, the more chance theyve got to expel more virus out," Dr Dalton said. Under normal circumstances, large droplets fall to the ground within a metre from the mouth or nose, but throw moderate to vigorous exercise into the mix, and a forceful expulsion of air can transmit droplets much further. "If they are breathing out quickly to rapidly and exercising heavily indoors, they can fill a room with virus so more people can be exposed to an infectious dose because theres a big viral load in the air," he said.

"They may also expel more droplets, which will travel much further, so more people come within the range of where they can get infected." Loading Professor Mary-Louise McLaws, an epidemiologist and World Health Organisation adviser, said Victoria's devastating second wave stemmed from a handful of clusters, which she defined as multiple super-spreading events. The pathogen flew in with returned travellers who quarantined in the Rydges on Swanston and the Stamford Plaza hotels before it spread to more than 30 security guards, setting in a motion a wave that killed hundreds of people in Victoria. "It was a super storm of super-spreading events," Professor McLaws said. "Victoria is still in a critical phase and it risks a third wave if it lifts restrictions too quickly."

Dr Dalton, who has studied the phenomena of super-spreading, said countries such as Hong Kong and South Korea were praised for their handling of the COVID-19 pandemic but once restrictions were eased small clusters of COVID-19 cases quickly exploded to thousands during super-spreading events inside bars, nightclubs, churches and gyms. One super-spreader, dubbed Patient 31, attended church twice in South Korea before testing positive to coronavirus earlier this year. Within weeks, South Korea went from dealing with a small number of COVID-19 cases to thousands. More than 5000 cases would be traced back to the mysterious Shincheonji religious group. Meanwhile, almost 36,000 people have died after contracting COVID-19 in Italy. Yet, the death toll from the virus can be traced back to clusters in just three regions of the entire country. Lombardy alone accounted for 17,000 deaths. Soldiers in protective suits spray disinfectant on the steps of the Shincheonji Church of Jesus in South Korea. Credit:Newsis Musicians who performed at four Hong Kong bars were also linked to a recent spate of more than 100 infections.

"We can't afford to make the same mistakes," Dr Dalton said. Loading Super-spreading events almost always happen indoors. Crowded spaces, face-to-face or intimate interactions such as dancing or kissing, poor ventilation, people doing vigorous exercise, loud talking, yelling or singing all heighten the danger. We cant make the risk zero, infectious diseases physician Professor Peter Collignon said. But all the evidence points to indoors being such a bigger risk and there are lots of things we can do to make the risk much lower.

He said opening bars and having a quarter of the usual number of people indoors was better than not opening at all. There are things that are really hard for people in the industry, he said. But the things we have in place to prevent spread will constantly be adjusted depending on how much community transmission we have." Dr Dalton warned alcohol consumption was also a risk factor for people not complying with social distancing. "Nightclubs probably shouldn't be opened until we get a vaccine or reach elimination, unless the industry creates much more aggressive COVID-safe polices," he said.

In Australia, super-spreading incidents have infiltrated hospitals, weddings, factories, abattoirs, cruise ships and aged care homes. A single hospitality worker who worked venues across Melbourne was linked to dozens of cases in one of the state's first major clusters, while delirious patients shouting and roaming in hospital wards have been linked to super-spreading coronavirus in Victorian hospitals. Much of the discussion around reopening gyms has been focused on social distancing and enhanced hygiene of high-touch zones such as treadmills and bikes but Dr Dalton said reducing the risk of respiratory transmission was of equal importance. With small outbreaks documented in gyms across the world, Dr Dalton says there needs to be larger buffers around people doing aerobic exercise and a limit to their numbers. Increasing air flow and ventilation in gyms was also crucial, he said.

Professor McLaws, argued however, gyms were super-spreading hotbeds and it was still too perilous to even consider opening them. "Exercise should be done outdoors," she said. Dr Dalton said targeted testing and screening of those aged between 20 and 40 was important to breaking the hidden chains of transmission. This cohort fanned the spread of Australia's second surge of infections and were more likely to be mildly ill or asymptomatic. Professor McLaws wants young adults, along with frontline healthcare workers, to be fast-tracked for vaccines.

"Slowing the spread is the best way to protect the elderly and immunocompromised." she said. Deputy Chief Health Officer Allen Cheng dubbed the Casey cluster that broke out in five households last month in Melbourne's south-east and infected 44 people a super-spreading event. It just takes one [super-spreader] and it can be off and away," Professor Cheng said. The Andrews government has repeatedly come under fire for its beleaguered contact-tracing model blamed for allowing the second wave of infections to spiral out of control and it appears to have learned from past mistakes. "The incident management team effectively put a ring around the Casey outbreak and stopped it in its tracks," a Victorian Department of Health spokesman said.
India will formally induct the Nirbhay subsonic cruise missile into the Indian Army and Navy after the seventh trial scheduled next month but has already moved a limited number of the missiles to the Line of Actual Control where Indian soldiers are locked in a tense standoff with Chinas PLA.

The 1,000 km range solid rocket booster missile has a single shot kill ratio of more than 90 per cent. It has been developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), people familiar with the development told Hindustan Times hours after India test-fired an extended-range BrahMos surface-to-surface supersonic cruise missile that can hit targets 400 km away.

The Defence Acquisition Council headed by defence minister Rajnath Singh has cleared the formal induction of the Nirbhay subsonic missile. The military, however, did not wait for the formality to deploy the new missile and has already moved some of them to defend the LAC against China.

The missile, which travels at a speed of 0.7 Mach, has both terrain-hugging and sea-skimming capability that helps it avoid detection and counter-measures.

At the LAC, the PLAs western theatre command has deployed stand-off weapons up to 2,000 km range and long-range surface-to-air missiles in Tibet and Xinjiang after the Ladakh stand-off started in May this year. The Chinese deployment is not limited to occupied Aksai Chin but is located in depth positions from Kashgar, Hotan, Lhasa and Nyingchi along the 3,488 km Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Officials said Wednesdays testing of the 400-km range BrahMos missiles with an indigenous airframe and booster is significant since it clears the decks for India to have the next class of supersonic long-range tactical cruise missile. The Brahmos has a liquid-fuelled booster capable of ranges over 500 km.

These new-age weapons will be based on solid-fuelled ducted ramjet (SFDR) technology that can be used for air-to-air missiles as well as long-range supersonic cruise missiles. The technology has been tested by the DRDO twice - on 30 May 2018, and 8 February 2019.

The new class of cruise missile will have a solid rocket booster along with supersonic speed using SFDR technology. The range of missiles can be decided on the basis of mission objectives, said an Indian missile expert.

It is understood that the new class of cruise missiles (yet to be named) will have a better circular error of probability than the BrahMos with a heavy conventional warhead to target airbases and ships of the adversary.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Shishir Gupta Author of Indian Mujahideen: The Enemy Within (2011, Hachette) and Himalayan Face-off: Chinese Assertion and Indian Riposte (2014, Hachette). Awarded K Subrahmanyam Prize for Strategic Studies in 2015 by Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (MP-IDSA) and the 2011 Ben Gurion Prize by Israel. ...view detail
The Vatican on Wednesday denied U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo an opportunity to meet with Pope Francis, amid an ongoing clash between Pompeo and the Holy See over policy regarding China.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vaticans secretary of state, told reporters that Pope Francis clearly said that he does not receive political figures ahead of the elections.

Thats just crazy, Pompeo said when asked if his visit to the Vatican was intended to motivate U.S. voters. Weve been working on human rights in China the entire time Ive been part of this administration.

Tension between Pompeo and the Vatican, however, has already been building for some time, the New York Times outlined on Wednesday.

For decades, China has attempted to control the Catholic church hierarchy within its borders, going so far as to appoint bishops who were subsequently excommunicated by the Vatican because they were not chosen by the Pope. The Vatican agreed to a provisional deal in 2018 in which Pope Francis recognized seven bishops appointed by Beijing, in an attempt to increase the churchs presence and legitimacy in China.

That deal was lambasted by critics, including Cardinal Joseph Zen, the former archbishop of Hong Kong, who said at the time that Chinese Catholics would be placed in a Communist-controlled cage.

The Vatican is currently attempting to renew the agreement with Chinas government. However, the push has caused the Vatican to run afoul of the Trump administration, which is advocating a hard line against China in the wake of a trade war and the coronavirus pandemic.

Two years ago, the Holy See reached an agreement with the Chinese Communist Party, hoping to help Chinas Catholics. Yet the CCPs abuse of the faithful has only gotten worse, Pompeo wrote on Twitter on September 19. The Vatican endangers its moral authority, should it renew the deal.

Pompeo linked to an article he penned in the conservative Catholic magazine First Things, in which he urged the church not to engage with Chinas government. The magazine has been critical of Pope Franciss leadership, a fact that has not gone unnoticed in the Vatican.

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We know that the interpretation doesnt only come from the text, but also from the context, Cardinal Parolin commented, saying the article caused surprise in the Vatican. The venuealready says something about the intention of those who wrote this article.

More from National Review
Russias Navalny Accuses Putin of Being Behind His Poisoning

BERLINRussian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who is recovering in Germany after being poisoned in Russia, said in comments published Thursday that only Russian President Vladimir Putin could have been behind the attack against him with a Soviet-era nerve agent.

Navalnys supporters have frequently maintained that the poisoning could have only been ordered at the top level, although the Kremlin has repeatedly dismissed the allegation. German officials have said labs found traces of a chemical agent from the Novichok family in the Russian politicians system.

Navalny, a corruption investigator who is Putins fiercest critic, was flown to Germany two days after falling ill on Aug. 20 on a domestic flight in Russia. He spent 32 days in the hospital, 24 of them in intensive care, before doctors deemed his condition sufficiently improved for him to be discharged.

He has posted frequent comments online as his recovery has progressed, but in his first interview since the attack, he told Germanys Der Spiegel, I assert Putin was behind the crime, according to an English-language copy of his comments the magazine published online.

I have no other explanation for what happened, Navalny, 44, said.

He asserted that his poisoning with a Novichok nerve agent only could have been ordered by the heads of Russias military, domestic, or foreign intelligence agencies, officials who cannot make a decision like that without being instructed by Putin. They report to him.

The Kremlin on Thursday said that such accusations against the Russian president are absolutely groundless and unacceptable.

Some of these statements in the mentioned publication we consider offensive, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

Peskov charged that there was information that specialists from the CIA were working with Navalny these days and giving him instructions.

There is information that these instructors are working with him these days, Peskov said. Instructions the patient is receiving are obvious. We have seen such lines of behavior more than once.

In response to Peskovs comments, Navalny on Thursday announced that he would sue the Kremlin spokesman and demanded that the alleged evidence of him working with the CIA be made public.

If the authorities, on behalf of which Peskov speaks, have evidence of the nonsense he is talking about, then its a matter of Russias state security, and I demand that this evidence be published, Navalny said in his blog.

Before he was transferred to Berlin for treatment, Navalny spent two days in a coma in a hospital in the Siberian city of Omsk, where Russian doctors said they found no trace of any poisoning.

German chemical weapons experts determined that he was poisoned with the Soviet-era Novichok, the class of nerve agent that Britain said was used in a 2018 attack on former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter in Salisbury, England. Labs in France and Sweden corroborated the German findings.

Navalny told Der Spiegel that when he first fell ill on the plane he was taking from Siberia to Moscow, he was sure he was dying as he collapsed to the floor.

Then I hear voices growing ever quieter, and a woman calling: Dont leave us! Dont leave us! Then its over. I know Im dead, he said in the interview. Only later would it turn out that I was wrong.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel called the poisoning an attempted murder and she and other world leaders have demanded that Russia fully investigate the case.

Merkel had personally offered Germanys assistance in treating Navalny, and the politician said even though he had no real previous contacts with the country, Germany has become a special country for me. He said he had rented an apartment in Berlin to use as he recovers.

Merkel visited him in the hospital before he was released, which Navalny said was totally unexpected, but a pleasant surprise.

We didnt discuss anything secret or sensational. The visit was a gesture, he said. I was impressed by how precisely she knows Russia and my case, adding: She knows some of the details better than I do.

And when you talk to her, you understand why she has been at the top in Germany for so long, Navalny said of Merkel. I thanked her for her efforts and she said: I only did my duty.

Russia has bristled at demands for an investigation, saying that Germany needs to share medical data in the case or compare notes with Russian doctors. Germany has noted that Russian doctors have their own samples from Navalny since he was in their care for 48 hours.

The Hague-based Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons has collected independent samples from Navalny for testing, but results havent yet been announced.

Navalny scoffed at the Russian demands for tests and blood samples, saying there should still be plenty of my blood in Omsk.

Theyre naturally not interested in dealing with the matter as such. All they care about is painting the German government in the worst possible light, he told Spiegel. The next thing theyll do surely is accuse Angela Merkel of having personally poisoned me with Novichok.

The magazine described Navalny as joking and alert in the interview, but said his hands shook so much it was difficult for him to drink from a bottle of water. He also reiterated what his team has previously saidthat he planned to return to Russia when he was able to do so.

Not going back would mean that Putin has won and achieved his goal, and my job now is to remain the guy who isnt afraid, Navalny said. And Im not afraid! When my hands shake, its not from fearits from this stuff. I would not give Putin the gift of not returning to Russia.

By David Rising and Daria Litvinova
In the face of broad criticism, including from key GOP senators, President Donald Trump on Wednesday addressed his failure to condemn white supremacist groups at Tuesday's debate.

Leaving the White House for campaign appearances in Minnesota, Trump told reporters he doesn't know who the "Proud Boys" are -- despite having told the far-right group, which reportedly has described itself as "Western chauvinist" but not white supremacist, to "stand back and stand by" at the debate.

"I don't know who the Proud Boys are. I mean, you'll you have to give me a definition because I really don't know who they are. I can only say they have to stand down, let law enforcement do their work," Trump said of the group which has staged counter protests in cities like Portland that have experienced recent violence.

PHOTO: President Donald Trump speaks to reporters on his way to Marine One on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, Sept. 30, 2020. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

But asked directly on Wednesday if he would denounce white supremacy, Trump claimed he has always denounced it -- yet once again didn't use the words "white supremacy."

"I've always denounced -- any form, any form, any form of any of that -- you have to denounce," Trump said.

A White House spokesperson had said earlier in the day there was nothing for the president to "clarify."

Asked whether he denounces white supremacists after failing to categorically and clearly condemn them at the first presidential debate, Pres. Trump says, "Any form of any of that, you have to denounce." https://t.co/9HOF3puGEh pic.twitter.com/b86zjzR3ej  ABC News (@ABC) September 30, 2020

At Tuesday's debate, asked by moderator Chris Wallace of Fox News whether he was "willing to condemn white supremacists and militia groups and to say that they need to stand down and not add to the violence," the president at first said, "Sure, I'm willing to do that."

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When Wallace pressed him, the president asked, "What do you want to call them?"

"White supremacists and right-wing militias," Wallace said, as former Vice President Joe Biden interjected the name "Proud Boys."

"Proud Boys, stand back and stand by," Trump then replied. "But I'll tell you what, somebody has got to do something about antifa and the left because this is not a right-wing problem. This is a left-wing problem."

MORE: Commission on Presidential Debates promises more 'structure' at remaining debates

PHOTO: President Donald Trump participates in the first presidential debate against Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden at the Health Education Campus of Case Western Reserve University on Sept. 29, 2020 in Cleveland. (Win McNamee/Getty Images)

The group reportedly has reportedly previously denied links to white supremacy or violence.

The Proud Boys describe themselves as "a pro-Western fraternal organization for men," according to the New York Times, and have denied they are part of the "alt-right" -- but members have recently been connected to white supremacist groups.

The primary organizer of the Unite The Right rally in Charlottesville, Virginia -- where one counter-protester was killed -- in 2017 was a former Proud Boys member, according to the Anti-Defamation League.

The group has reportedly previously denied accusations of being white supremacists.

Trump's debate response has drawn criticism from even his GOP allies in Congress.

Asked on Wednesday morning if he found the president's comments concerning, GOP Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina -- the only African American Republican in the Senate -- suggested the president misspoke and should "correct it."

"I think he misspoke in response to Chris Wallace's comment. He was asking Chris what he wanted to say. I think he misspoke. I think he should correct it," Scott told Capitol Hill reporters.

"If he doesn't correct it, I guess he didn't misspeak," he added.

Usually a reliable supporter of the president, Scott played a prominent role at the Republican Convention last month in defending Trump, including on the issue of race. Nearly every time the president is asked about the African American community, he invokes Scott's name.

PHOTO: Sen. Tim Scott meets with Judge Amy Coney Barrett on Capitol Hill in Washington, Sept. 30, 2020. (Bonnie Cash/Pool via AP)

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, asked directly if it's a problem that the president did not directly condemn white supremacy, said he agreed with Scott's criticism, calling Trump's failure "unacceptable."

"With regard to the white supremacy issue I want to associate myself with the remarks of Senator Tim Scott that he put out earlier today. I think he said it exactly correctly and that's exactly how I would express myself on that issue," McConnell said. "He said it was unacceptable not to condemn white supremacists. and so I do so in the strongest possible way."

Sen. Lindsay Graham, another close ally of Trump's, also aligned himself with Scott's statement via Twitter.

"I agree with @SenatorTimScott statement about President Trump needing to make it clear Proud Boys is a racist organization antithetical to American ideals," he wrote.

MORE: Trump's failure to condemn white supremacy at debate part of well-established pattern

Biden, asked on Wednesday at a campaign stop in Alliance, Ohio, if he has own message to the Proud Boys, made his views on white supremacy clear.

"My message to the Proud Boys and every other white supremacist group is cease and desist. That's not who we are. This is not who we are as Americans," Biden said.

"The American people will decide who the next president will be, so I urge the American people to go out and show up," he said, calling the debate a "wake up call" for the country.

MORE: Biden calls Trump's debate performance a 'national embarrassment' as he kicks off train tour

Sen. Mitt Romney of Utah -- the only Republican who voted to convict Trump during his impeachment trial -- said "of course, of course" when asked on Capitol Hill Wednesday if the president should have outright condemned white supremacy.

"I'm not a political pundit and so I can't tell you what impact that will have," Romney said when asked about Trump's comment. "I can say I watched the debate last night. It was not a Lincoln-Douglas debate, that's for sure."

PHOTO: Sen. Mitt Romney meets with Judge Amy Coney Barrett on Capitol Hill in Washington, Sept. 30, 2020. (Erin Scott/Pool via AP)

Republican Sen. Mike Rounds of South Dakota added that Trump should have been "very clear."

"He should have made it very clear that there's no room for people on the far left or the far more far right. When it comes to either antifa or these white supremacist groups, should have been very clear," Rounds said.

MORE: 'No Blame?' ABC News finds 54 cases invoking 'Trump' in connection with violence, threats, alleged assaults.

In a hearing on the Russia investigation on Capitol Hill Wednesday, former FBI Director James Comey said Trump's comments raise serious alarms about the security implications and the potential that it incites racist followers of such groups to commit acts of violence or recruit more members.

PHOTO: President Donald Trump walks to Marine One to depart from the South Lawn of the the White House in Washington, Sept. 30, 2020. (Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images)

MORE: 5 key takeaways from Joe Biden and Donald Trump's 1st presidential debate

"The FBI is fighting a fire of racist violence, and with words like that the president is using a fire hose to spray gasoline on that fire," Comey said. "Maybe he misspoke, maybe when he said stand down and stand by he meant something else. I sure hope for the sake of our whole country he'll say that today, what he really meant and condemn these groups."

Outside Washington, the former Republican governor of Pennsylvania and the first U.S. secretary of Homeland Security, Tom Ridge, took to Twitter Wednesday to express his dismay.

"If a Republican President is incapable of condemning white supremacists, then the party of Lincoln has expired," Ridge wrote. Trump often compares himself to President Abraham Lincoln.

If a Republican President is incapable of condemning white supremacists, then the party of Lincoln has expired.  Gov. Tom Ridge (@RidgeGlobal) September 30, 2020

Trump denies knowing who 'Proud Boys' are, again declines to condemn white supremacy by name originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
General Stanley McChrystal Kevin Lamarque | Reuters

WASHINGTON  Retired Army Gen. Stanley McChrystal endorsed Democratic nominee Joe Biden for president on Thursday, saying that the nation needed a commander in chief that was "humble enough to understand that they are a servant." McChrystal made the endorsement even though there had been tension between McChrystal and Biden in the past. "I don't think we need a genius, I don't think we need a magician, we just need an honest person who is willing to listen. We need someone who will take in information, surround themselves with talented people and lead the country the best they can," McChrystal said on MSNBC's "Morning Joe." "Anyone we choose will make mistakes, that's for sure, but the reality is, if we pick for character, if we pick for values, we will be best off," the four-star general added. McChrystal described Biden as someone who is "humble enough to listen to experts and who is humble enough to respect people who serve and have served."

Stanley McChrystal sits in the helicopter after a lengthy conference meeting with military officials October 7, 2009. Paula Bronstein | Getty Images News | Getty Images

Biden campaign spokesman Andrew Bates said the former vice president was honored by the endorsement. "He couldn't agree more that the next commander in chief must 'respect people who serve and have served' and be 'someone that you can trust' -- which would be a decisive break from Donald Trump, the most dishonest president in American history and the only one to have utterly disgraced himself by calling veterans and the fallen 'losers and 'suckers," Bates wrote in an emailed statement to CNBC. The Trump campaign did not immediately respond to CNBC's request for comment. Before overseeing all U.S. operations in Afghanistan under the Obama administration, McChrystal led the Pentagon's most secretive Black Ops for five years. During his military career, McChrystal was critical of then-Vice President Biden's foreign policy and national security decisions, which came to light in a gritty 2010 Rolling Stone profile of the war-weary general. When asked about his policy differences with Obama and Biden, McChrystal said that their relationship was rocky at times but that there was a mutual respect that transcended disputes. "They didn't see everything the way I did, but in every instance, they listened, in every instance, they took in my view, in every instance, I felt that they were trying to make the best decision based on all the information they had and based upon a bedrock of values," he said of Obama and Biden.

In this photo provided by The White House, U.S. President Barack Obama (L) meets with General Stanley McChrystal, (L) Commander of U.S. Forces in Afghanistan October 2, 2009 on Air Force One in Copenhagen, Denmark. Pete Souza | The White House | Getty Images
Donald Trump not only called out to white supremacists as he debated with Joe Biden this week, but urged his supporters to go into the polls and watch proceedings take place.

In making that plea on Tuesday night, the president once again alluded to widespread election fraud taking place across the United States, without any basis, as he called on his base to stage an intervention.

For Trump supporters to do so, would amount to election fraud of its own, with official poll workers typically requiring certification.

The presidents critics and Democratic opponents argue that those assertions are aimed at delegitimizing the 3 November election long before votes are counted.

Taking to the stage in Cleveland, Ohio, on Tuesday night, Mr Trump complained that apparent poll watchers had been thrown from polling stations in Philadelphia, in claims that state officials have since been rebuked.

"I am encouraging my supporters to go into the polls and watch very carefully, because that's what has to happen  I am urging them to do it," he said on Tuesday.

"There was a big problem, in Philadelphia they went in to watch, they're called poll watchers, very safe very nice thing  they were thrown out, they weren't allowed to watch," he claimed, adding, "You know why? Because bad things happen in Philadelphia, bad things."

But any poll watchers Mr Trump referenced on Tuesday do not exist, because there are no registered Republican or Trump campaign poll watchers in Pennsylvania, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.

At the same time, there are no polling stations open in the city where poll watchers could be thrown out.

Pennsylvanias secretary of state, Kathy Boockvar, said in response: There are no poll watchers yet. They are officially appointed a few days before Election Day. They literally dont exist now.

Whilst each state has different rules for poll watchers, most are paid workers registered by campaigns or national committees to observe potential polling issues.

Steve Simon, secretary of state for Minnesota, said to Axios on Wednesday as Mr Trump campaigned in the state that he was concerned about any large mobilisation of self described poll watchers.

"What is distressing about the presidents remarks is I fear his supporters will take it upon themselves to mobilise large numbers to go to the polls" as poll watchers, he said.
A woman leader of YSR Congress party on Thursday resigned from the trust board of famous Goddess Kanaka Durga temple in Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh, a day after the police seized a huge stock of liquor bottles, allegedly being smuggled from neighbouring Telangana from her car.

Chukka Venkata Naga Varalakshmi submitted her resignation to the trust board as well as the executive officer of Kanaka Durga temple, owning moral responsibility for the seizure of as many as 280 liquor bottles from her car at Jaggayyapet on Wednesday.

In her letter, Varalakshmi said she was no way connected with the transport of liquor bottles in her car. She said it was her driver Shiva who might have indulged in smuggling.

I will not continue in the post till the inquiry is completed, she said.

The Jaggayyapet police already arrested Shiva and also booked a case against him and Varalakshmis husband Venkata Krishna Prasad, also a YSRC leader under relevant sections of the Andhra Pradesh Excise (Amendment) Act 2020.

The police seized the big consignment of liquor from Varalakshmis car which was parked in an apartment close to her residence. The value of the seized alcohol is around 40,000.

According to Jaggaiahpet circle inspector P Chandrasekhara Rao, preliminary investigation revealed that the liquor was procured from Telangana and smuggled into the state. We are questioning the driver and investigating the role of the car owner, he said.

Varalakshmi told the police that she had only asked the driver to fill fuel in the vehicle and was not aware of the presence of liquor bottles in it. We wont encourage such practices, she claimed.

Telugu Desam Party Andhra Pradesh unit president Kala Venkat Rao demanded the abolition of entire trust board of Kanaka Durga temple in the wake of seizure of liquor bottles from the vehicle of one of the board members.

It clearly shows what kind of persons the Jagan Mohan Reddy government had appointed in the temple trust board. Not just the board member, even endowments minister Vellampalli Srinivas also should resign from the post, Rao said.

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French President Emmanuel Macron (R) and Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) give a joint press conference at the Chateau de Versailles before the opening of an exhibition marking 300 years of diplomatic ties between the two countries in Versailles, France on May 29, 2017. (REUTERS/Stephane De Sakutin/Pool)

Putin, Macron Call for Ceasefire in Azerbaijan-Armenian Conflict Zone

MOSCOWRussian President Vladimir Putin and Frances Emmanuel Macron called for an immediate ceasefire in the conflict between Azerbaijan and ethnic Armenian forces around the Nagorno-Karabakh region following a call, the Kremlin said on Thursday.

The parties discussed future steps the Minsk OSCE group could take to de-escalate the conflict in the region and called for the conflict to be resolved by diplomatic means, the statement said.

A French Presidency source said the two presidents shared the same concern regarding Turkeys sending of Syrian fighters in Nagorno-Karabakh.

Russias foreign ministry said on Wednesday that Syrian and Libyan fighters from illegal armed groups were being sent to the Nagorno-Karabakh region.
MP Margaret Ferrier has been stripped of the Scottish National Party whip after attending parliament with Covid-19 symptoms and then travelling back to Scotland by train following a positive test result.

SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon branded the Rutherglen and Hamilton West MPs actions utterly indefensible and the partys MP in neighbouring Glasgow East said she should resign her seat.

Ms Ferrier issued an apology, saying she had no excuse for her behaviour. She is referring herself to parliaments standards watchdog and has informed police and House of Commons authorities.

As Labour accused her of astonishing recklessness which had put others health at risk, it emerged that one person is self-isolating after coming into close contact with her during her visit to parliament .

Ms Ferrier was among those who called for Boris Johnsons aide Dominic Cummings to be sacked after he ignored what she said were crystal clear self-isolation instructions to travel to Durham with coronavirus symptoms.

In a statement today she said that she experienced mild symptoms of coronavirus last Saturday, but decided to travel to London by train on Monday after she began feeling better.

After attending parliament as planned that day, she received a positive coronavirus test result in the evening. Despite official guidance to self-isolate, she travelled home by train on the Tuesday.

At 7.17pm on Monday evening, she spoke in the chamber of the House of Commons, paying tribute to the NHS, key workers and volunteers in my constituency for their care and commitment over the last seven months.

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Getty UK news in pictures 21 December 2021 People take part in a winter solstice swim at Portobello Beach in Edinburgh to mark the solstice and to witness the dawn after the longest night of the year PA UK news in pictures 20 December 2021 An auction employee displays poultry to buyers and sellers attending the Christmas Poultry Sale at York Auction Centre in Murton PA UK news in pictures 19 December 2021 Joao Moutinho of Wolverhampton Wanderers looks on during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Chelsea at Molineux Getty Images UK news in pictures 18 December 2021 Freight lorries queuing at the port of Dover in Kent PA UK news in pictures 17 December 2021 Newly elected Liberal Democrat MP Helen Morgan, bursts 'Boris' bubble' held by colleague Tim Farron, as she celebrates following her victory in the North Shropshire by-election PA UK news in pictures 16 December 2021 Brussels sprouts are harvested by workers as they prepare for the busy Christmas period near Boston in Lincolnshire PA UK news in pictures 15 December 2021 Lewis Hamilton is made a Knight Bachelor by the Prince of Wales at Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 14 December 2021 The Royal Liver Buildings surrounded by early morning fog in Liverpool PA UK news in pictures 13 December 2021 People queue outside a walk-in Covid-19 vaccination centre at St Thomas's Hospital in Westminster Getty Images UK news in pictures 12 December 2021 People take part in the Big Leeds Santa Dash in Roundhay Park, Leeds PA UK news in pictures 11 December 2021 People arrive at a Covid-19 vaccination centre at Elland Road in Leeds, PA UK news in pictures 10 December 2021 Stella Moris speaks to the media after the US Government won its High Court bid to overturn a judges decision not to extradite WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange PA UK news in pictures 9 December 2021 Camels are lead around Salisbury Cathedral during a rehearsal for the Christmas Eve Service PA UK news in pictures 8 December 2021 Margaret Keenan and Nurse May Parsons, a year after Margaret was the first person in the UK to receive the Pfizer vaccine PA UK news in pictures 7 December 2021 Snowfall in Leadhills, South Lanarkshire as Storm Barra hits the UK with disruptive winds, heavy rain and snow PA UK news in pictures 6 December 2021 A person tries to avoid sea spray on New Brighton promenade in Wallasey as the UK readies for the arrival of Storm Barra Getty UK news in pictures 5 December 2021 People release balloons during a tribute to six-year-old Arthur Labinjo-Hughes outside Emma Tustin's former address in Solihull, West Midlands, where he was murdered by his stepmother PA UK news in pictures 4 December 2021 People walk through a Christmas market in Trafalgar Square Reuters UK news in pictures 3 December 2021 A pedestrian carries a dog as they dodge shoppers on Oxford Street in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 2 December 2021 Duchess of Cambridge inspects a Faberge egg at the Victoria and Albert Museum Getty

A picture posted on the official Police Scotland Twitter feed for East Kilbride, Rutherglen and Cambuslang indicated that she met officers at a local station on Tuesday - after her diagnosis with Covid. It is understood that she informed SNP colleagues and Commons authorities on Wednesday.

A picture posted on the official Police Scotland Twitter feed for East Kilbride, Rutherglen and Cambuslang indicated that she met officers at a local station on Tuesday - after her diagnosis with Covid. It is understood that she informed SNP colleagues and Commons authorities on Wednesday.

One person has been told to self-isolate following tracing, the Commons said.

I apologise unreservedly for breaching Covid-19 restrictions by travelling this week when I shouldnt have, Ms Ferrier said.

There is no excuse for my actions.

Despite feeling well, I should have self-isolated while waiting for my test result, and I deeply regret my actions, she said.

I take full responsibility and I would urge everyone not to make the same mistakes that I have and do all they can to help limit the spread of Covid-19.

After speaking with the MP this evening, the SNPs leader at Westminster Ian Blackford announced he had withdrawn the whip.

And Ms Sturgeon said: "This is utterly indefensible. Its hard to express just how angry I feel on behalf of people across the country making hard sacrifices every day to help beat Covid.

The rules apply to everyone and theyre in place to keep people safe. Ian Blackford is right to suspend the whip.

Glasgow East MP David Linden told BBC1s Question Time: I dont think her position is tenable and she should resign.

Labours shadow Scottish secretary Ian Murray said: This is astonishing recklessness from an SNP MP, which has put peoples health at risk.

Through her irresponsible actions, she very possibly has passed on the virus to a vulnerable person, who may now have COVID-19 and be in danger. She has put passengers, rail staff, fellow MPs, Commons staff and many others at unacceptable risk.

To breach the rules twice is simply unforgivable, and has undermined all the sacrifices made by her constituents. There cannot be one rule for Margaret Ferrier, another for everybody else.

Following the Downing Street advisers notorious lockdown breaching trip to Durham, Ms Ferrier said in May: Dominic Cummings actions have undermined the sacrifices that we have all been making in lockdown to protect each other from coronavirus. His position is untenable and he must be removed from his post now."

She added then: The public health advice is crystal clear. For the safety of others, anyone with coronavirus symptoms must self-isolate, in line with government guidance. They should not leave the house for any reason.

Official NHS guidance states that individuals should self-isolate immediately if they have any symptoms of coronavirus or have received a positive test result.

Self-isolators are told not to leave their home even to get food or medicine, not to go to work or any public place, not to use public transport, not to receive visitors apart from people providing essential care and not to exercise outside their homes or garden.

The Commons authorities said they had closely followed public health guidance on the action to take following a confirmed case of Covid on the site and were implementing a number of cleaning measures to ensure those working on the estate can maintain a clean and hygienic working environment.

Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle was said to be keeping the situation under constant review.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-02 06:19:07|Editor: huaxia

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UNITED NATIONS, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday welcomed the announcements of an agreement to launch talks on border delineation between Lebanon and Israel, said his spokesman.

The talks will be hosted by the United Nations at the premises of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon in Naqoura, said Stephane Dujarric, the spokesman, in a statement.

The United Nations, through its representatives, will remain fully committed to supporting the process as requested by the parties and within its capacity and mandate, said the statement.

The secretary-general acknowledges the sustained diplomatic efforts of the United States to facilitate this agreement, it said.

Both Israel and Lebanon confirmed on Thursday that they have agreed to U.S.-brokered border demarcation negotiations. Enditem
An executive producer of "Dancing With the Stars" has finally answered the one question on everybody's minds - "Why were Tom Bergeron and Erin Andrews replaced?"

The host's shocking exit at the famous dance reality show was another step in the show's "evolution," according to executive producer Andrew Llinares.

Speaking on ABC's VIrtuFall panel, Llinares said, "I think any show like this that has been on many, many seasons needs to continue to evolve."

He added, "I think changing the host was all about evolution; it was about making the show feel fresh, making it feel new and kind of make it reach out."

Llinares and the other executive producers are hoping to cater to a new audience and the audience who have been watching the show for years.

He also shared why they had to bring in supermodel-turned-host Tyra Banks and why they only hired one host instead of two for this new season.

The executive producer revealed that having just one gives the show a more refreshed, new place, "In terms of moving faster and just feeling different," he added.

He further explained that if you watch a show like this for a long time, the audience tends to get bored with the rhythm.

Though he confirmed nothing wrong with Bergeron and Andrews, Llinares subtly confirmed that the show was getting so. Boring.

And replacing two people with one, energetic and fresh-faced, "changed the rhythm of the show in a really exciting way."

Speaking of the "America's Next Top Model" host, the executive producer praised her hosting duties on DWTS.

"Tyra is doing an amazing, amazing job," he gushed.

"It's just so wonderful to have her energy in the ballroom and her expertise as a host in the ballroom."

He believes that the former "Tyra Banks Show" host is bringing a new life to "Dancing With the Stars."

In July, Tom Bergeron, who hosted "Dancing With the Stars" since its debut in 2005, announced that he was axed after 28 seasons.

The 65-year-old tweeted, "Just informed @DancingABC will be continuing without me. It's been an incredible 15-year run and the most unexpected gift of my career. I'm grateful for that and the lifelong friendships made."

Andrews, who joined Bergeron in 2014, also thanked ABC for "six memorable seasons."

That same month, ABC and BBC Studios announced that Tyra Banks would be hosting the newest season of DWTS as the show "embark on a new creative direction."

In September, the latest season of the reality show finally aired, and 46-year-old Banks was met with mixed reviews from fans.

Her debut left some viewers unimpressed.

One viewer commented, "Can I vote @tyrabanks off of Dancing with the Star?!"

Another person said, "2 mins in and I'm over Tyra banks Expressionless face why like why #DWTS."

Meanwhile, there are still fans who thought she did a great job.

"Tyra Banks is a good host, so they made no mistake here. If anything, the show is more like its old self than it even was recently," another social media user said.

READ MORE: Prince Charles' Heartbreaking Warning to Prince Harry Revealed
Google will start paying select media outlets to display curated content on its news app in a concession to the industry which has accused the search engine and other tech giants of unfairly using content for years.

The company has set aside more than $1 billion to cover the program's first three years, and will extend the program beyond that, Google said in a statement on Thursday. The search giant will pay publishers to provide blurbs for its news app and to give readers free access to certain paywalled articles, Google said.

The Google News Showcase product, which launches Thursday in Brazil and Germany, will display branded story panels curated by partner publishers, allowing them to highlight their content using timelines, bullets and related news articles. Panels will also link directly to the news publisher's website, Google said.

Google and Facebook have faced heat from news executives and regulators around the world who've urged the platforms to pay for the rights to host news articles. Publishers argue that their journalism is what's drawing users to those platforms, while the two tech giants are capturing most of the online ad dollars. Thursday's launch builds on a licensing program Google announced in June to "pay publishers for high-quality content."

"Google News Showcase lets publishers curate stories on the news that matters, develop deeper relationships with readers and provides a new revenue stream for essential reporting," Brad Bender, a Google vice president, said on a call with journalists.

More than 200 publications in Germany, Brazil, Argentina, Canada, the U.K. and Australia have signed up to the News Showcase program, with more markets to come, Google said in the statement.

Bender said the funding wouldn't be able to cover all news organizations also because "not all publishers produce the volume and type of content necessary for this product." Google is deciding who to partner with on a market-by-market basis, with a focus on newspapers or sources with established audiences, as well as significant local and regional news outlets, he said.

Licensing fees will be structured as a flat fee over a period of time and will be negotiated depending on the amount of content the publisher provides, Google said.

"With News Showcase and the new integration of editorial content of media like Der Spiegel, Google shows that they are serious about supporting quality journalism in Germany," Stefan Ottlitz, head of product development at Der Spiegel, said in an email.

But not all publishers are convinced of Google's new program. "By launching a product, they can dictate terms and conditions, undermine legislation designed to create conditions for a fair negotiation, while claiming they are helping to fund news production," said Angela Mills Wade, Executive Director of the European Publishers Council, referring to an EU copyright directive that allows news outlets to seek payment from internet sites that display their articles.

Google said News Showcase will first launch on its Android app and later on iOS, Discover and search services. News Showcase content won't get preferential ranking or display in the app or search results.
Election 2020 Debate (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

CNN anchor Jake Tapper abruptly ended an interview with a top Trump campaign aide who persistently refused to address the presidents failure to condemn a far-right group.

Ending the interview with Tim Murtaugh, the Trump campaign communications director, Tapper referenced the host of the previous nights debate, saying: Im not Chris Wallace.

The interview, on Wednesday afternoon, quickly became heated after Tapper asked: Why is it so difficult for President Trump to say, I condemn white supremacy?

Mr Murtaugh said the president already had, arguing: Sooner or later, you guys have to take yes for an answer. As the two went back and forth about the details, eventually Tapper said: You know what, Im not Chris Wallace, and seemed to end the interview early.

Wallace had struggled to maintain order during the chaotic debate, in which the president repeatedly refused to allow his opponent, Joe Biden, to speak. On Wednesday the Fox News host acknowledged criticism of his performance and called the debate a missed opportunity.

Mr Trump drew intense criticism even among Republicans for not vigorously condemning white supremacist groups on Tuesday night, after Mr Biden asked him to denounce the Proud Boys, a right-wing militia, during a question from Wallace about disavowing right-wing extremists.

Proud Boys, stand back and stand by, but I'll tell you what, somebody's gotta do something about antifa and the left, Mr Trump said.

Pressed about the comments on Wednesday at the White House, in particular what stand by meant, Mr Trump said hed always denounced any form of white supremacy, and that he didnt know who the Proud Boys were, even though they are now a regular, headline-grabbing presence at American political demonstrations.

I dont know who Proud Boys are, but whoever they are, they have to stand down, let law enforcement do their work," Mr Trump said.

FBI Director Christopher Wray testified before Congress in mid-September that white supremacist groups rank among the top threats to US national security.

The controversy is a familiar one for Mr Trump, who has been accused in the past of going easy on violent white supremacists. In 2017, he seemed to praise contingents of a white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, where counter-protester Heather Heyer was killed by a right-wing extremist, saying there were very fine people on both sides." (He later said the comments were meant to apply to people seeking to keep a Confederate monument up, not to neo-Nazis present at the event.)

Its also not the first time Tapper has cut off officials from the Trump administration who he believes arent responding to questions in good faith, including an axed conversation with trade adviser Peter Navarro earlier this month about whether the president misled Americans about the extent of the threat from coronavirus, and another exchange that went viral in 2017 with White House policy adviser Stephen Miller about author Michael Wolffs book Fire and Fury, which painted a highly critical picture of the president.
Minor girl raped by lover and friends in UP

UP: Body of minor girl found in a pit, days after she went missing

Accused in Saidabad rape and murder case kills self, says police

Minor girl gang raped in MP

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

Khargone, Oct 01: A minor girl was allegedly gang-raped by three unidentified men near Marugarh village here, police said on Wednesday.

The incident took place on the intervening night of Tuesday and Wednesday in the Chainpur police station area, they said.

The girl and her brother were sleeping inside a hut in an agriculture field in the village when the three accused arrived on a two-wheeler and dragged her out, Superintendent of Police Shailendra Singh Chauhan said.

Hathras gang-rape case: NHRC issues notice to Uttar Pradesh govt, state police chief

They hit the brother with a stick when he opposed them, the SP said.

The accused then dragged the girl to another part of the field and took turns to rape her, the official said.

Meanwhile, as the brother raised an alarm and alerted the villagers, the accused fled the spot leaving the two-wheeler behind, the SP said.

Hathras sealed ahead of Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi's visit|Oneindia News

Chauhan said a case under relevant sections has been registered and the minor girl's medical examination was also conducted.

The two-wheeler used by the culprits turned out to be a stolen one, the SP said, adding that further investigations are on.

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Story first published: Thursday, October 1, 2020, 9:20 [IST]
By Express News Service

BENGALURU: Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa and other BJP leaders hailed the CBI Special Courts verdict in the Babri Masjid demolition case on Wednesday as a triumph of truth and justice. Truth has emerged victorious. I was also part of the movement and I am personally very happy with the verdict. Many people were waiting for it with bated breath. This is the latest example to prove that fighters will always emerge triumphant, said Yediyurappa soon after the verdict.

He credited the senior party leaders for their relentless fight. A host of BJP leaders, from state party president Nalin Kumar Kateel to ministers to MLAs, welcomed the verdict. Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Mallikarjun Kharge said it is unfair to say the accused did not have a role to play, despite evidence. Even as KPCC president D K Shivakumar refrained from comment, Congress Legislature Party chief Siddaramaiah called the verdict unfortunate. He insisted the Centre and UP government should appeal before the SC.
Pham Binh Minh (R), Vietnamese Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Dominic Raab, First Secretary of State of the U.K., hold a joint statement following their talk in Hanoi, September 30, 2020. Photo courtesy of Vietnam's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Vietnam and the U.K. will look to the U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as baseline for maritime activities.

The "Joint Statement on the Vietnam-U.K. Strategic Partnership: Development Orientation in the Next 10 Years" signed Wednesday in Hanoi reads: "We emphasize the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as the basis for determining the scope of the seas, the sovereignty, jurisdiction and legitimate interests of the seas; and that UNCLOS is the comprehensive legal framework that all operations in seas and oceans must adhere to."

The statement came after a talk between Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh and First Secretary of State, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs of the U.K., Dominic Raab in Hanoi.

Rabb was on an official visit to Vietnam on Tuesday and Wednesday as the two nations celebrate the 10th anniversary of establishing their strategic partnership.

According to the statement, Vietnam and the U.K. reaffirm the importance of maintaining and promoting peace, stability, security, safety, and freedom of navigation and overflight, enforcing UNCLOS in good faith, settling disputes in peace without threatening to use force, respecting diplomatic and legal processes based on international law, especially UNCLOS.

The two sides continued to express deep concern over developments in the South China Sea, including activities to obstruct, renovate and militarize structures that are in dispute, and underline the importance of demilitarization and refraining from force when conducting activities at sea, as well as avoiding actions that could complicate the situation or escalate disputes and affect peace and stability. Vietnam calls the waters the East Sea.

They also reaffirmed the importance of fully and effectively implementing the Declaration of the Conduct of the Parties in the South China Sea (DOC), soon completing an effective and feasible Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC) that adheres to international laws, especially UNCLOS, and not to threaten the rights of states or the interests of third parties under international law.

On September 16, the U.K. along with France and Germany submitted a note verbale to the U.N. to criticize Chinas South China Sea actions.

The three stated Chinas exercise of its so-called "historic rights" in the waterway does not comply with international law. As state parties to the 1982 U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), they reaffirmed that the integrity of UNCLOS needs to be maintained, and underlined the importance of unhampered exercise of the freedom of the high seas, in particular the freedom of navigation and overflight.

Regarding bilateral cooperation, Vietnam and the U.K. agree to make efforts to complete a free trade agreement soon, as Brexit came before the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) took effect.

Britain left the European Union last January and is locked in negotiations with the bloc, its biggest trading partner, on a new trade deal from 2021.

Vietnam and the U.K. achieved a two-way trade turnover of $6.6 billion last year compared to $6.7 billion in 2018. Between 2010 and 2018, Vietnam-U.K. bilateral trade rose on average 17.8 percent each year.

Raab tweeted Wednesday the U.K. had "secured Vietnams public support to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP)."

"This is a significant step in taking the U.K.-Vietnam economic relationship to the next level, and demonstrates the U.K.s commitment and value to the region," the tweet stated.

The two also agreed to give priority to the fight against illegal immigrantion and human trafficking, given the many cases of Vietnamese trafficked into the U.K. in recent times.

"In the next 10 years, the Vietnam-U.K. strategic partnership would act as a framework to strengthen bilateral relations and also to solve problems faced by both sides in the international community," the joint statement read.

Raab attended an online Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers meeting on Wednesday chaired by deputy PM and Minister Pham Binh Minh in his capacity as Chair of ASEAN 2020.

Regarding their cooperation in ASEAN, Vietnam and the U.K. pledged to regularly exchange viewpoints on important matters, including recognizing the role of the bloc, ensuring peace, stability, safety, as well as freedom of aviation and navigation in both the Southeast Asia and the Asia-Pacific regions.
The job of determining whether Santos has met conditions set for its Narrabri coal seam gasfield will come down to government agencies that earlier waved it through, stoking concerns about their enforcement.

Unusually, the Independent Planning Commission on Wednesday announced only a "phased approval" for the $3.6 billion project. Santos is required to meet 134 conditions, including redoing its groundwater monitor before even its appraisal phase can start, let alone construction of some 850 wells.

Santos is required to redo its groundwater modelling before its Narrabri gasfield project can advance, among various conditions set by the Independent Planning Commission. Credit:Rob Homer

However, the IPC has confirmed most of conditions "must be met to the satisfaction of the Planning Secretary [Jim Betts]", with the Environment Protection Authority responsible for ensuring compliance.

"Under NSW planning law, the Independent Planning Commission does not have any enforcement or compliance functions in relation to the conditions it imposes on a development," a spokesman said.
Pro-lifer punched in front of Supreme Court day after Amy Coney Barrett nomination

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A pro-life protestor demonstrating in support of Amy Coney Barretts nomination to the U.S. Supreme Court was allegedly punched in the face by a pro-abortion activist in front of the Supreme Court Building on Sunday in Washington D.C.

Video footage captured by Breitbart documented the dueling demonstrations in front of the Supreme Court that took place less than 24 hours after President Donald Trump selected the 48-year-old 7th Circuit Court of Appeals judge to replace the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

Abortion rights protesters called their demonstration opposing Barretts nomination the No Confirmation Before Inauguration. Meanwhile, Students for Life of America held a counterprotest in favor of Barrett. The counterprotest featured members of the groups SCOTUS Squad.

According to Students for Life, a network of pro-life student groups with chapters on college and high school campuses across the country, pro-life demonstrators were vastly outnumbered by pro-abortion protesters by a margin of 95% to 5% on Sunday.

A picture posted on the Students for Life Twitter page showed that some pro-abortion demonstrators were not pleased about the presence of the pro-life group.

About an hour into the video, Autumn Schimmer, the communications and market manager for Students for Life Action, can be seen conversing with a woman as a nearby pro-life protester chanted Pro-life is human rights!

At the same time, a pro-abortion protester was yelling womens rights are human rights!

I was approached by a pro-choice woman who wanted to have a conversation about what feminism means to me, Schimmer recalled in a statement. I told her that women are not empowered when they kill their own children, and we need to do better.

After that, she was getting more aggressive, Schimmer continued. I took a step back to return to my group. She approached me and punched me in the face and ripped off my face mask. This is very upsetting. Being attacked by a pro-choicer just shows that the violence of abortion breeds a culture of violence and normalizes it.

Breitbart caught up with Schimmer after the incident, who told the videographer: Im okay. But this just shows that the left is okay with violence and why are we okay with violence?

While the Breitbart video did not catch the attack as it happened, it appears to have taken place at about the 1:02:45 mark of the recording.

At this time, Schimmer was holding a sign that read Trust Pro-Life Women accompanied by the hashtag #Justice4Life and the Students for Life Twitter handle. The other side of her sign read: I cant believe these feminists are protesting a woman. Approve her now.

Seconds later, the woman she was conversing with was shown walking away.

Schimmer, who said she lives in Chicago, described the woman who punched her as a coward in her exchange with Breitbart.

She was mad that I didnt respond to one of her questions and when I was chanting with one of my co-workers, she hit me in the face and told me that I was not willing to have a conversation, Schimmer recalled.

After the attack, other pro-life protesters tended to a visibly shaken Schimmer, whose mask was removed. Students for Life President Kristan Hawkins announced via Twitter Sunday that the assault was reported to the police and the assailant was identified.

The attack on the pro-life demonstrator is not a unique incident.

A report compiled by the pro-life website Life News reports that more than 100 acts of assault, vandalism and harassment targetted pro-life advocates in 2019. The website listed over 40 examples of vandalism and attacks against pro-life and conservative groups that have taken place so far in 2020.
FLORENCE, Italy  For the past five centuries, Michelangelos David has been celebrated for its sculptural perfection and its embodiment of youthful beauty and strength.

Now, Italian officials want the sculpture to help showcase Italian craftsmanship and high-tech expertise in the digital age.

Over the next several months, a battery of Italian engineers, technicians, craftspeople and restorers will use what the projects coordinator has described as the most advanced technologies available today to 3-D print an exact copy of the 17-foot statue. The replica will then be the centerpiece of the Italy Pavilion at the next world fair, Expo 2020 Dubai, which was originally scheduled to open this month but was postponed until next October because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Vehicles of leaders and Vadra, who were on their way to Hathras to meet the family of the Dalit gang-rape victim, were stopped in Uttar Pradesh's Greater Noida on Thursday, party officials said.

The convoy was stopped near Pari Chowk, prompting party workers and senior leaders to proceed on foot, with some functionaries saying they will walk down to Hathras.

Around the same time last year, we were fighting for the Unnao daughter and the situation in UP has not changed in a year, told reporters as she started walking on the expressway.

The Uttar Pradesh government, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath must take responsibility for women safety in the state and ensure atrocities against them are stopped, she added.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Sahar Daftary should have been celebrating her 24th birthday.

But instead of sharing the model's happiness, her family spent Christmas Day keeping a vigil at the spot where she plunged to her death.

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More than two dozen relatives travelled from their homes in London to the block of flats in Salford Quays, Greater Manchester, where they laid flowers and cards and lit 24 candles, one for each year of her life.

Miss Daftary, who was crowned Miss Face of Asia last year, fell from the balcony of businessman Rashid Jamil's 12th-floor flat last Saturday.

Sahar's mother lays flowers at the spot where the model fell to her death

She had married 33-year-old Mr Jamil in a lavish Muslim ceremony 12 months ago but the relationship ended when she discovered he was already married with three children.

In fact the former restaurant owner had been married three times, and was still living with his third wife.

Miss Daftary's family, who are originally from Afghanistan, remain convinced she would not have taken her own life.

Her cousin, Aarozo Tach, 30, said: 'She would never have done that over this man. She was over him and was looking forward to the future.'

Miss Daftary, from Brentford, west London, went to Manchester to take part in a fashion show.

Friends say she agreed to go to Mr Jamil's apartment to finalise their divorce.

Mr Jamil was arrested on suspicion of murder but was later freed on bail.

Earlier, it was revealed Miss Daftary had lodged a complaint of sexual assault with police.

A spokeswoman for Greater Manchester Police said: 'Police received a report of sexual assault in May 2008. An investigation was launched but the victim refused to co-operate further.'

Sahar Daftary and Rashid Jamil on their 'wedding day' last year. She died after falling from his 12th floor luxury apartment. Her life fell apart after she discovered he had allegedly been married three times before

A close friend of Miss Daftary, who asked not to be named, said: 'Sahar went to the police about six months ago after she split with Rashid. She thought she was being followed and walked into a police station near the apartment in Salford Quays to lodge a complaint.

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'He was very possessive of her and she said that he told her that he had people watching her.'

Miss Daftary had been in Mr Jamil's home city of Manchester for work but was persuaded to go to his flat after he offered her an Islamic divorce.

Her sister Mariya Massumi, 34, said Miss Daftary had previously tried to get Mr Jamil to sign divorce papers but he had not agreed.

Ms Massumi said: 'On the way up to Manchester, Sahar was arguing with Rashid on the phone but then he acted nicely and promised to sign the divorce papers.'

The family, having released pictures of Miss Daftary's marriage to Mr Jamil at the Holiday Inn in Brentford last December, now claim the union was never registered.

Picture shows Sahar Daftary (R) and Rashid Jamil on their wedding day in December 2007. Sahar Daftary fell from outside his luxury apartment block on Saturday 20th December.

Picture shows Sahar Daftary (R) and Rashid Jamil on their wedding day in December 2007. Sahar Daftary fell from outside his luxury apartment block on Saturday 20th December.

They have also insisted she would not have killed herself and had 'everything to live for'.

But they also claimed her marriage had been a sham and her husband was a womaniser.

Meanwhile his second wife, a lawyer by whom he has an 11-year-old daughter, said she had left the former curry house boss because of his drinking and womanising.

It is also unclear whether Mr Jamil's third marriage was ever legally recognised under English law.

Miss Daftary, who had been planning to fly to Dubai with friends for New Year's Eve, had tried to rebuild her life, recently starting studies for an accountancy degree.

Mr Jamil led the life of a wealthy entrepreneur but was behind a string of failed businesses and lived in a rented flat.

Ms Daftary shows off her wedding ring

Click here to resize this module

He was arrested on suspicion of murder after she plunged to her death from his 12th floor waterside apartment at the weekend but was later released on bail.

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It is understood that evidence so far points to her death being suicide or a tragic accident.

It also emerged that a pornographic video clip apparently featuring Miss Daftary and an unnamed man had recently been posted on a publicly accessible website.

She was said to have feared the footage would damage her career, and police are expected to examine whether somebody had made it public out of spite.

Miss Daftary's mother Anisa, a widow, has been left distraught by her daughter's death.

Sahar's brother-in-law Joe Karim said: 'She would never commit suicide. It was against everything she believed in. She had everything to live for. She was a beautiful, intelligent, religious woman.'

Miss Daftary's sister, Mariya Massumi, said: 'Sahar did not have a new partner but she had moved on with her life. She had started studying and stopped modelling. She had washed her hands of Rashid.'

The family released photographs of the Islamic ceremony at which Miss Daftary married Mr Jamil in December last year in front of 200 family and friends at the Holiday Inn near her home in Brentford.

They show the couple looking happy at the engagement party followed by the exchange of rings and vows and cutting of a four-tier cake in front of guests and an imam, who oversaw the ceremony.

Sahar wore a floral dress before changing into a more traditional green dress for the wedding ceremony.

A FACEBOOK SITE DEDICATED TO SAHAR DAFTARY SET UP BY HER FRIENDS ENTITLED 'Remembering Princess Sahari'' This group is dedicated to my beautiful Sahar, whose untimely passing has left us all shattered and numb. She had such a positive impact on people, even if she had only met them once. Truth is, she was just the most beautiful person, inside and out...We'll never forget you babygirl...this is to celebrate your life and to bring together all the people you loved and touched...Your memory will always live on as long as I can help iT.

Sahar's death is being treated as either suicide or a tragic accident

But crucially, the union was not registered with the authorities, claim her family. The couple had met through her modelling work, which often took her to fashion shows in Manchester.

But within a matter of weeks, Miss Daftary discovered that her ' husband' in fact already had a 'wife' in Manchester, 29-year-old Narissa Amjad, a marketing executive who was expecting their second child.

'When the wife phoned we didn't believe her,' said Mrs Massumi. 'She phoned every day. Eventually we went up to Manchester to ask him what was going on. His wife was there and his sister-in-law.

'He said in front of his wife that he wanted to be with Sahar. He had told Sahar that his wife was only with him for the money.'

Mr Jamil is thought to have first undergone an arranged marriage in Pakistan which ended in divorce. He then married a lawyer in Manchester in an officially recognised wedding. They had a daughter, but again the couple divorced.

The couple surrounded by family members during their wedding ceremony

With Narissa Amjad he had a boy, now four, and a girl, one. It is not known whether his marriage to Miss Amjad was registered officially or just recognised in the form of an Islamic ceremony, but in the eyes of Miss Daftary's family he is guilty of bigamy.

Their suspicions were first aroused when his parents did not turn up to the Holiday Inn ceremony - he claimed they were against the wedding because she was an Afghan - and again when he cancelled an appointment to register the marriage.

Despite the revelations of his allegedly secret past, Miss Daftary initially agreed to move to Salford Quays with him, but when it became apparent that he was staying with his 'wife', she decided to finish the relationship.

Having quit her job helping wealthy Arab shoppers at Harrods she enrolled in an accountancy and finance degree at Thames Valley University near her home.

Remembering Princess Sahari

'Remembering Princess Sahar'

Her sister added: 'Sahar had moved on. Last month Rashid tried to get back together with her. He offered to buy my sister a house and he asked her to live with him. But she told him she didn't want his money.'

At the weekend she had agreed to travel to Manchester to do the make-up for a fashion show at an Indian restaurant.

Friends have told her family that they had a row but that she then agreed to go to his 250,000 rented apartment at the NV Buildings on Saturday evening after he offered to give her an Islamic divorce.

Shortly afterwards, police received a call from Mr Jamil requesting assistance. By the time they got there she had suffered fatal injuries after her 150ft fall.

The luxury apartment block from which Ms Daftary plunged to her death

A man at his apartment refused to answer the door to the Daily Mail earlier this week. Mr Jamil had been seen leaving a red rose next to the spot where Miss Daftary landed.

Mr Jamil's ex-wife revealed that he had conducted a secret affair with Narissa while still married to her.

And she did not divorce him until July last year, long after his Islamic wedding to Narissa and just a few months before the ill-fated ceremony with Sahar, meaning the three 'marriages' almost overlapped.

She and Mr Jamil were childhood sweethearts, marrying in 1996.

Model looks: Ms Daftary's family have urged police not to write off her death as suicide. Here she poses with a friend

The woman said: 'People would have said we were the perfect couple. But four or five years after the marriage, he began drinking and began his affairs and things went downhill after that.

'He always had two women on the go. He would never be faithful to just one woman. Two girls turned up at my house, knocking on the door claiming they were pregnant. They said he'd promised to marry them and divorce me.'

She said he eventually left her for Miss Amjad but then became obsessed with Miss Dafarty.

'For him to be with a model, a girl like that, was beyond his dreams. She was a young, hot chick from London. He lavished her with money and jewels.'

Stunning: The dead woman was named Miss Asia 2007. She was in Manchester for a modelling job

She said she didn't believe he was responsible for her death. 'It could have been an accident,' she said. 'I think that it could be possible she has committed suicide.'

A police source said: 'Witnesses have said there was no shouting or ranting - just a single scream. It is being looked at as either suicide or a horrible accident.'

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Her friend, Afrah Sami, said: 'We are all shocked and devastated. Sahar was very beautiful - she loved life and she was always the centre of the party.'
Since first meeting candidate and U.S. Sen. Barack Obama, this city on the Mississippi River has weathered a recession and the ensuing lukewar
Care and Feeding is Slates parenting advice column. In addition to our traditional advice, every Thursday we feature an assortment of teachers from across the country answering your education questions. Have a question for our teachers? Email askateacher@slate.com or post it in the Slate Parenting Facebook group.

My partner is a middle school teacher known for establishing a rapport with difficult students and advocating for BIPOC and LGBTQ kids. When he answered a call from a parent one evening, I overheard him talking about his sister. I confronted him about this after he got off the phone, because he does not actually have a sister. He told me that he tells stories about imaginary siblings, cousins, and other family members to connect with his students. I told him this was bizarre, probably unethical, and that I wouldnt participate in these lies if asked a direct question by one of his students or fellow teachers. I think the lies put his entire career at risk, but he says theyre harmless and unlikely to be discovered. (Hes not on social media, which helps, but students have looked up our home address online and could easily find information on his relatives.) Whats your take on this? Im not in education, but I find the whole situation baffling and dont know what to do.

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Would You Lie to Them, Honey?

Dear WYLtTH,

Whether or not your partners behavior is unethical is an interesting question; I suppose the answer lies in how important the truth is to you. Your letter reminds me of a strategy my friend, who is an attorney, used for many years. He was fond of using this quote from Oliver Wendell Holmes in his closing arguments: The law is mans feeble attempt to be fair. Juries found this aphorism very persuasive, but Oliver Wendell Holmes never actually said it! My friend doesnt remember where he heard the expression (I think it may be paraphrased from Bonfire of the Vanities)but assigning it to Holmes lent the message authority, and juries therefore responded to it. Likewise, your partner probably believes his stories about imaginary relatives convey a truth that resonates more than an anecdote about a friend, colleague, or hypothetical person could. Is it honest? No. Will it jeopardize his career? I doubt it. If I were a principal, and a student or parent complained that a teacher was sharing stories about fake family members, Id probably shrug and continue working on the school budget. Maybe Id have a conversation with the teacher, but I wouldnt consider it a fireable offense.

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That said, his credibility with his students is another story. If his students discover that your partners stories are not real, your partner might lose the credibility and trust hes worked hard to establish. Difficult students are often difficult because of trauma induced by the adults in their lives, which makes it harder for them to put their faith in teachers. More generally, middle schoolers entering adolescence naturally become increasingly skeptical of adults. Educators admonish kids to be honest, and so students may view your partners fibs as evidence of hypocrisy.

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I dont think you have to do anything at all but let your partner decide whether he should continue to tell tales about imaginary sisters. Of course, you are under no obligation to affirm his stories if you do meet a student or colleague who asks about them. They are his fibs, so he alone is responsible for any fallout.

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Ms. Holbrook (high school teacher, Texas)

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My son is in fifth grade, doing in-person school so far, and thriving. A week ago, he was the last kid standing in what was basically a geography bee in his social studies class, and his teacher said he would bring him a doughnut as a prize.

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For my kid, doughnuts are more valuable than just about any other material on earth, so he was naturally very happy about this prize. The doughnut has yet to materialize, and hes miffed about it. He mentioned it to me before school this morning.

On the surface, a doughnut is a small thing. But if a teacher tells a student hell do something, whats his obligation to follow through? Do we let this go, and let my son learn the lesson that sometimes people dont keep promises or say, Maybe he was joking, and move on (and get him a sweet treat ourselves)or should I drop the teacher a note and say, Hey, you promised little Alphonse a reward, and it would be great if you would follow through on that. He prefers chocolate glazed?

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Im overthinking this, arent I?

I Doughnut Know

Dear IDK,

Here is my shameful confession: I am totally this teacher. I dont offer rewards and prizes and other extrinsic motivators as a general practice, but theres no denying that the occasional offer of a special treat ratchets up the stakes and injects some competitive fun and energy into a lesson. Unless, of course, you then forget for two days, run too late to stop at Dunkin the third, buy the doughnut but accidentally leave it in the staff room to be mistaken as a free snack on the fourth, and finally, on the fifth day, manage to proffer a fresh doughnut to the prizewinner, at which point the glory of the victory is distinctly subdued. I know. I know! I told you it was shameful.

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So, speaking from experience: The teacher absolutely should follow through! Maybe he genuinely forgot about his promise, or maybe he remembers and is already extremely rueful about the mishaps and personal shortcomings that have led to his failure to deliver in a timely fashion, but either way, he made the offer and he needs to stick to it. True, sometimes people dont keep promises to other people, but teachers should keep promises to students, even if it is a small thing like a chocolate glazed. (And its in the teachers own best interest, too. While little incentives like this can add a quick shot of motivation in the short term, you lose that investment and more if the incentives fail to materialize. A late doughnut is still a whole lot better than no doughnut at all.)

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Id first nudge Alphonse to check in with the teacher himself; he might not need any more than a friendly reminder. If a check-in or two from a hopeful fifth grader doesnt do the trick, do drop the teacher a note. Dont say, You promised little Alphonse a reward, and it would be great if you would follow through on that. Do say, Hey, little Alphonse has been coming home asking for a doughnut he won in the geography bee, but Im not clear on when he should expect it. Could you clarify about the prize in case he asks again? Thanks, and we hope youre having a smooth start to school reopening! Give him the chance to fix it  and get little Alphonse his treat if he doesnt. In a year with as little joy as this one has offered, fifth graders ought to, at least, see the promise of a doughnut fulfilled.

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Ms. Bauer (middle and high school teacher, New York)

Could you outline what you believe are realistic expectations teachers should have of elementary students attending school from home? Im the mother of a second grader, and I often eavesdrop on the daily proceedings. While some teachers seem to understand that they cant execute classroom management the same way they would in person, some of them seem to be doing the same old stuff they wouldve done in the school building.

My kid has mostly stayed out of the dragnet thus far, but he did get snapped at by one teacher for standing instead of sitting (who cares?!??). I heard the same snappy teacher give one kid a hard time for fiddling with drumsticks, and give another kid actual demerits for putting the answer to a math problem into the chat function of the virtual classroom. (Thankfully, my sons main teacher seems to have much more reasonable expectations, so Mrs. Snappy is not ruining our virtual experience.)

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Teachers of K3 graders who complain about kids eating/drinking on camera, fiddling with something in their little hands, or taking any position aside from sitting still seem to have no understanding of how small children need to survive being in a virtual classroom for hours a day. I would love for you to write something I can link to if I need to ask that my kids teachers adjust their expectations during these horrible times.

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Grating Expectations

Dear Grating Expectations,

You are correct. If teachers are not altering their expectations for their students in a virtual environment, they are making a terrible mistake.

I also think that the expectations are going to differ dramatically depending on the grade level. My wife teaches kindergarten, and her expectations are going to differ dramatically from the expectations of a third grade teacher. My wife, for example, describes the time she spends with her kindergartners online as putting on a show. She has to be incredibly engaging to keep the attention of 5-year-old children, whereas third grade students might require a little less personality and a little more rigor.

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A lot will also depend on the time spent on the computer. My students, for example, spend no more than 30 minutes at a time with me, and they are 10 years old (fifth graders). As a result, I can ask them to assume a good listening posture (which includes standing), keep their cameras on, find a place where they are well lit, and refrain from eating or engaging in activities that will distract the class. But the younger the student and the longer the session, the more flexibility is needed.

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Here are some general guidelines that I think can apply to most K3 situations:

1. This is a time unlike any other. So many of the things that kids love about school have been taken away, and therefore, making engagement, joy, laughter, and happiness should be the priority. Kids have a hard enough time sitting in classrooms all day. Sitting in a virtual classroom is incredibly difficult for most human beings. How often have you been in a Zoom meeting and remained fully attentive for the entire time? Not checking email once? Not sending a single text message? Not shopping for the latest iPhone accessory? Now imagine being a kid. Teachers must understand, acknowledge, and embrace this reality.

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2. When learning occurs online, the adult on the other end of the computer must now assume the role of co-teacher, with all of the rights and responsibilities of a teacher. If you think your child needs a break, take a break. If your child needs to fidget or sit on her head or eat a banana in order to stay engaged, you have every right to turn off the cameras (so those fidgets, head-sits, and bananas dont distract the other students) and allow your child what they need, just like teachers do in school every day.

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3. Its reasonable to expect that students will keep their cameras on unless they are putting food in their mouths or sitting on their heads. Its hard enough to ascertain engagement and understanding in a virtual environment where everyone is two-dimensional and muted. Turning the camera off for no reason makes teaching even harder.

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4. Distracting behaviors like funny faces and playing with toys are not acceptable simply because they distract from the learning of others. That said, a wise teacher might allow for three 30-second funny-face breaks over the course of a learning session or allow students to bring a toy for the start of every class to accommodate the students desires and keep them happy.

5. Students should refrain from using the chat function until the teacher has offered guidance in this regard. While giving a student demerits for entering an answer in chat may sound excessive, students also use the chat function in distracting ways, so its reasonable for a teacher to establish guidelines.

6. In all things, I believe in my wifes mantra: Compassion over compliance. Its a pandemic. Kids are frightened, sad, and lonely. We must do everything to keep them loving learning and loving school until the world returns to normal.

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I hope this helps!

Mr. Dicks (fifth grade teacher, Connecticut)

How much mask compliance is reasonable to expect of a group of 4-year-olds? Fortunately, my daughter (almost 4) took to wearing a mask without a problem. But she is in preschool with 10 other kids, and two of them consistently refuse masks. The school strongly encourages masks for this age group, but of course wont force a child to wear one. What is a reasonable and age-appropriate response? Of course we want all the kids wearing them, but Im not sure if I have unrealistic expectations. What should I realistically expect the teachers and the school to do? Im thinking issuing warnings to parents is probably not right, and adding to a teachers already huge burden isnt right either. But at the same time, its a safety issue. What is reasonable here?

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Two Too Many

Dear Two Too Many,

Youre not going to like this answer, but I dont think theres one reasonable expectation for all 4-year-olds. At my school, the kindergartners (most of whom are 5, but there are a handful of late-birthday 4-year-olds) have generally been compliant with masks, and truthfully, this surprised me. Ive spent some time reflecting on why theyve been more successful than I thought theyd be, and I think a few factors are at play.

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First, as one of the kindergarten teachers at my school put it, these kids dont know any better. As far as their lived experience goes, all kids have to wear masks when they come to elementary school. Unfortunately, your daughters classmates may be reacting to change; they were used to being mask-free at their preschool, and the change in expectation might be a hard adjustment. But hopefully, if these children have acclimated to the masks in their home lives, wearing the mask at school can be folded into that.

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Second, mask compliance where I live is high overall. If mask compliance overall is low where you live, or if those kids parents dont value it, it will be harder for those kids to acclimate to wearing them. (As an aside, I do see a lot of adults wearing their masks just below their noses, and as a result, a lot of my students wear their masks that way, too. Please remember: It must cover your nose!)

Third, you dont know why these kids wont wear them. My school district has an incredibly strict mask policy: If a few polite reminders dont get the mask back on, the child goes to the principals office, and the parents receive a phone call. Our district does have, however, two schools filled with students who, for various medical reasons, arent expected to wear masks. Its possible your daughters preschool has allowed these students to be exempt from wearing a mask for one reason or another.

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The reality, of course, is that no one can force a child to wear one anyway. Sure, the school can set a policy like All students must wear a mask full time or they must enroll in virtual learning. But since preschools make their money exclusively from tuition, they may be more resistant to enforcing very strict policies.

I think it would be fine, given the circumstances of this pandemic, to inquire with the school about its policy so that you can gauge whether there might be any hope of getting these children to come around on mask-wearing. But if it doesnt seem like theres much chance of that, and it feels unsafe to you, you may have to look into other programs.

Ms. Sarnell (early childhood special education teacher, New York)

More Advice From Slate

My son is in third grade, and Ive been very active in volunteering in his classroom. When I emailed his teacher earlier this week to ask what I can do for the Halloween party, she said that she doesnt need help with it. Im so upset, and Id really love to help with it. What should I do?
Sean Monterrosas sisters led dozens of masked marchers past the Vallejo Police Department on Sunday.

They headed toward a new billboard adjacent to the police headquarters that reads, Justice for Sean Monterrosa, along with an illustration of Monterrosa, the 22-year-old San Francisco resident shot to death by Vallejo police on June 2.

Michelle and Ashley Monterrosa, 24 and 20, respectively, took the crowd through residential streets, past people craning their necks from their porches and cleaning their cars on the streets, taking turns leading chants of: Whose streets? Our streets! and No justice, no peace. No racist police. Some onlookers raised fists in solidarity, others watched in silence.

Many marchers clutched yellow umbrellas with the names of Black and brown people killed by Vallejo police and by law enforcement across the United States, creating a canopy of yellow across their blocks-long march to the police department: Willie McCoy. Eric Reason. George Floyd. Michael Brown. Mario Woods. Trayvon Martin. Tony McDade. Daniel Prude, and more.

The crowd settled over the train tracks and rocky terrain beneath the billboard and fell into several moments of silence to honor Monterrosa.

It has been nearly four months since a Vallejo police officer opened fire at Monterrosa through the windshield of an unmarked police pickup. Monterrosa was outside a Walgreens, where police had responded to reports of people stealing merchandise on a night of demonstrations against police killings of Black people that were taking place across the country. Police said the officer mistook a hammer in Monterrosas sweatshirt as a firearm. California Attorney General Xavier Becerra said the state is investigating the disposal of the windshield  a step the Vallejo police chief, Shawny Williams, has welcomed.

The Vallejo police did not immediately respond to a request for comment for this story. But Williams has said in the past that Monterrosa was turning towards the officers in a crouching down, half-kneeling position, as if in preparation to shoot. Prior to that, Williams said Monterrosa was on his knees and raising his arms, revealing what appeared to be the butt of a handgun.

But Monterrosas family have said they believe he was on his knees and surrendering when he was shot.

Michelle Monterrosa told The Chronicle on Sunday that Vallejo police officers are gonna have to see Sean every day going into work, out of work when they patrol around.

Justice would have been Sean being here, and thats lack of leadership and authority ... (and) justice for us now means how many more lives are we gonna save? Michelle Monterrosa said. Were just gonna do everything we can in our power, were stirring up the pot and everything that is done in the dark is coming to the light.

During the rally beneath the billboard, she pointed into the crowd toward the Oakland artist known as Oree Originol who created the Justice for Sean Monterrosa art now on the Vallejo billboard, thanking him for sharing his work.

The billboard project was spearheaded by local community organization Vessels of Vallejo, which raised $3,297 for the billboard in days on fundraising site Fundly, according to Louis Michael, an organizer with the organization.

We knew it would have some support and people would donate, (but) we didnt know it would be that fast, Michael 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.

The billboard was put up on Sept. 22 and will be overlooking the police department for 60 days, said Chris Thorson, an organizer with Vessels of Vallejo.

Vessels of Vallejo organizers said they are planning to expand the billboard project to include highlighting other people killed by Vallejo police. Thorson told The Chronicle that the Headlands Center for the Arts has awarded the organization a grant to help them hire Vallejo-based artists of color to design future billboards.

Organizers told The Chronicle it was crucial to get the Monterrosa familys blessing before creating a fundraiser in their relatives name, Michael said.

Its important just for one, thinking about how traumatic this can be, how emotionally draining this can be, Michael said, adding: These are real families that have been affected.

Originol, who marched along with dozens of others on Sunday, told The Chronicle that public art that carries messages is imperative to at least gain visibility that would then inspire people to take action.

Michelle Monterrosa said she hopes the billboard project will bring accountability to the city and police department.

While standing beneath the billboard of her brothers likeness, she assured the crowd that, Vallejo, your time is up, everything that youve done in the dark is coming to light, and you know there is going to be accountability.

Lauren Hernandez is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: lauren.hernandez@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @ByLHernandez
SAN FRANCISCO - Amazon said Thursday that nearly 20,000 of its U.S. employees had tested positive, or had been presumed positive, for the coronavirus since the pandemic started spreading through the country this year.

The retailer has faced harsh criticism this year as hundreds of workers and critics have said it hasn't done enough to keep employees safe as they work in its warehouses amid a surge in demand to send items to shoppers across the country.

Amazon said in a blog that the number of employees who have had the illness includes its workers at its grocery store chain Whole Foods Market. In total, 19,816 employees have had covid-19 between March 1 and Sept. 19, it said, or about 1.44% of the 1,372,000 front-line workers employed by Amazon during that period.

(Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos owns The Washington Post.)

The tech giant has had a year of intense ups and downs due to the pandemic. Its sales have soared as people shopped more online, especially while shelter-in-place measures have been in place in many states. But some employees pushed back publicly on its working conditions, and shipping delays caused customers to vent their frustrations online.

Amazon emphasized that is at a lower infection rate than the U.S. population's, citing Johns Hopkins University numbers.

The numbers did not include the company's delivery drivers, who are typically contracted workers, according to Amazon spokeswoman Kelly Cheeseman.

The numbers only show Amazon's infection rate in the United States, and only includes front-line employees, such as warehouse workers and Whole Foods cashiers. The total number of Amazon front-line workers includes people who worked for the company at any point from March 1 to Sept. 19 - including workers who have now left the company. Warehouses have notoriously high turnover rates among workers.

In March, workers in Spain and Italy tested positive for the virus and joined those in the United States and across Europe in signing a petition that called on Amazon to adopt stricter safety guidelines, The Washington Post reported.

More than 1,500 workers signed the petition and one employee called the working conditions "totally insufficient" to keep people safe.

Since then, Amazon has rolled out stricter safety measures and started its own coronavirus-testing lab to screen workers. Amazon said Thursday it now conducts "thousands" of tests each day, and has a goal to get to 50,000 tests daily at 650 sites by November.

Some worker groups think it still hasn't done enough. The group that represents retail and grocery workers called for a Congressional investigation Thursday. Amazon's disclosure "is the most damning evidence we have seen that corporate America has completely failed to protect our country's front line workers in this pandemic," Marc Perrone, president of the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union, said in a statement.

In the spring, workers criticized Amazon for still shipping "unnecessary" items and requiring employees to work at the same fast speed as normal. Amazon says it has added measures including staggered employee break times, cleanings every 90 minutes and temperature checks and face masks.

Backlash continued in April when the company fired a warehouse worker in Staten Island who had helped organize an employee walkout. It also fired two technical workers who had been publicly critical of the warehouse conditions. An Amazon vice president quit shortly afterward to protest the firings of the two technical workers, as well as two warehouse workers.

Amazon said at the time it fired the tech workers for violating company policies. It said it fired the Staten Island worker, Chris Smalls, for violating a quarantine.

Amazon released the state-by-state breakdown of the cases. In most states, Amazon's infection rate was below the population as a whole. But not Minnesota and West Virginia.

In Minnesota, Amazon employees had a 3.17% infection rate, compared to 1.58% for the state as a whole. In West Virginia, Amazon's number was 1.31%, compared to 0.94% for the state.

It is unclear how many of the workers caught the virus while at work or from a co-worker.

Amazon urged other companies to also disclose their coronavirus infection rates.

"We all have a vested interest in returning to some version of normal and safely helping our communities and the economy," it said in its blog.

Amazon's shipping and safety struggles during the pandemic have resulted in some boosts to its competitors including Target and Walmart. But Amazon's revenue surged 40% to $88.9 billion in its first full quarter affected by the coronavirus fueled economic downturn.

The company has been hiring all year to keep up with increased demand. It announced early in the pandemic that it had hired a total of 175,000 seasonal workers to keep up with increased demand. It later said it would keep 125,000 of those jobs as permanent positions.

Last month, it said it would hire 100,000 full-time and part-time jobs in the U.S. and Canada as the holiday season approaches.

- - -

The Washington Post's Geoffrey Fowler contributed to this report.
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Computer Age Management Services (CAMS) witnessed some profit booking at higher levels, but traded much above its issue price. Overall, market rallied with Sensex rising around 600 points intraday on October 1.

CAMS opened the first trading day at Rs 1,518 (up 23.4 percent over issue price of Rs 1,230) and immediately hit an intraday high of Rs 1,550 on the BSE. Within initial few minutes of trading, it also fell up to Rs 1,306.20, an intraday low, from opening levels but recouped later.

It was trading at Rs 1428.85, up 16.17 percent over issue price, but down 5.87 percent from opening price, at the time of publishing this copy.

What should investors do now?

Analysts advise investors to hold the stock either in full or partial quantity given the strong business market share, asset light business model, expected growth going ahead and no direct listed peer, though company's growth is highly correlated with AUM of mutual funds.

"Considering, strong revenue visibility, healthy financial, and generous dividend payout policy, we recommend investor with long term horizon should continue to hold," Jaikishan Parmar, Senior Equity Research Analyst at Angel Broking told Moneycontrol.

"There is strong revenue visibility for CAMS, as they have a 70 percent market share of the MF registrar business. It is an asset-light business model, hence end of the year investor can expect a healthy dividend, and there is a possibility that dividends per share might increase every year," he said.

CAMS being India's largest registrar and transfer agent of mutual funds today has an aggregate market share of 70 percent based on mutual fund average assets under management (AAUM).

Hence, Prashanth Tapse, AVP Research at Mehta Equities also suggested holding on to the stock on listing day, for long term as the market always rewards a player who has the growth potential with high returns.

He is optimistic on CAMS's growth story. "If we presume mutual fund AUM is expected to grow by 16-18 percent CAGR for next 5-6 years, then CAMS is well placed to tap the business growth in the same tandem. Hence we believe investors should tap this opportunity and hold for a multibagger story for 2-3 years," he reasoned.

On valuations parse at upper price band (Rs 1,230), he also believes the company can comfortably command a PE of 40x-50x post listing from 34x (IPO offer), with asset-light business models typically tend to be valued differently and expect decent 15-20 percent return on investment (ROI) YoY, which makes sense for IPO allotted investors to hold, with the visible & high potential long term growth story.

If investors wishes to add on CAMS on listing day, he/she can do only if the listing premium is below 20 percent to allotment price i.e. below Rs 1,480 per share, he advised.

CAMS provides a comprehensive portfolio of technology-based services such as transaction origination interface, transaction execution, payment, settlement, record keeping, brokerage computation and compliance related services.

During FY17-20, CAMS' revenue grew at a 14 percent CAGR, EBITDA 13 percent and profit 12 percent. The balance sheet is lean with zero debt and negative working capital, thus resulting in healthy return ratios (FY20 RoE/RoCE at 35/37 percent).

Astha Jain, Senior Research Analyst at Hem Securities, on listing day, investors can book profit on partial holding & keep remaining holding for long term purpose as she likes the asset light business model of company & excited by the fact that the industry is mainly concentrated between limited players with company holding majority market share of 70 percent.

Also company has long history of existence since 1988 & presently company has experienced management & marquee shareholders, she said.

CAMS has been consistently generating strong free cash flow over the last four years, with free cash flow (FCF)/PAT conversation at 107 percent in FY20. It is a consistent dividend paying company with FY20 payout at 40.

Company caters to four of the five largest MFs in India as well as nine of the 15 largest MFs based on AAUM as of July 2020. It has showcased strong growth in overall AUM (23 percent CAGR) and equity AUM (30 percent CAGR) serviced, market share (+9pp), folios serviced (13 percent CAGR), accounts handled (21 percent CAGR) and transactions processed (27 percent CAGR) over the last 5 years.

However, Manali Bhatia, Head-Research at Rudra Shares & Stock Brokers is the only analyst advised exiting the stock on listing gains as growth is highly correlated with AUM of mutual funds, but increasing digital transactions and high interest towards ETF, could offset the future growth.

"Also, given its market leadership, integrated business model (asset light model with no borrowings as of June 20), and pan India presence, provides cushion to company. In addition, consistent growth in revenue and profit with attractive return ratios (ROE of 34%), strong cash flow, entry barrier coupled with dominant market share in industry; all these commands premium valuations. However, as the digital transactions are rising day by day this could put pressure on companys growth profile," she further explained.

CAMS raised Rs 2,244 crore via the public issue during September 21-23, which consists an offer for sale of 3,89,87,081 equity shares by State Bank of India, PNB, LIC, Bank of Baroda and T Rowe Price International. Hence the company will not receive any funds from IPO.

The views and investment tips expressed by investment expert on Moneycontrol.com are his own and not that of the website or its management. Moneycontrol.com advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.
Joe Biden had a chance in this weeks presidential debate to define himself to American voters. He didnt succeed.

In part, thats because the Democratic contender allowed his Republican rival, Donald Trump, to draw him into a game of insult and counter insult.

When Trump said something gratuitously obnoxious about Biden, such as attacking his IQ, it seemed par for the course. Americans know that this is the way their president behaves.

But when Biden called Trump a clown and the worst president in U.S. history and then told him to shut up, man you could almost hear the TV audience gasp in disbelief.

This is not the way the avuncular Biden usually speaks. He may have wanted to portray himself as strong and decisive. But in this debate, he sounded testy and querulous.

If nothing else, he proved that no one can out-Trump Donald Trump.

Trump, meanwhile, created chaos and then revelled in it.

He levelled nasty personal attacks against Bidens son Hunter. He refused to renounce supporters who are white supremacists.

He accused Democrats of sparking urban violence in order to discredit his administration. He interrupted Biden constantly.

In short, he was classically Trump. And Biden seemed unable to deal with him.

For the Democratic challenger, this is an unfortunate failing. Biden is leading nationally in the polls. But a path to victory that would allow him to navigate the shoals of Americas complicated electoral college system is far from guaranteed.

To win, Biden must be more than the Anti-Trump. He must also be able to show voters that he is vigorous leader with a comprehensive plan.

He does have a wide-ranging plan that would deal with climate change, the COVID-19 pandemic and Americas burgeoning health care needs.

By comparison, Trumps plan, such as it is, is jerry-rigged and internally contradictory.

But is Biden vigorous enough to suit the voters?

Americans tend to prefer strong leaders who cut a swath in the world. Conversely, they punish those who are seen to be weak. Former president Jimmy Carter, for instance, never recovered from a report that he had once been spooked by a rabbit.

Trump understands this and tries to use it against Biden. He calls him Sleepy Joe and mocks him for wearing an anti-COVID mask.

The 74-year-old Trump even suggests that, at 77, Biden is too old for the job.

Indeed, there is a laid-back quality to Biden that makes him stand in sharp relief to the frenetic Trump. In some ways, Biden is reminiscent of Ronald Reagan, the happy Cold Warrior, who couldnt always separate fact from fiction.

Reagan himself wasnt particularly vigorous. In fact, for part of his time in office he suffered from dementia. But he oversaw an administration that was active.

If Biden can portray himself as a latter-day Reagan, he will win.

So far, he has not been able to do that. Tuesdays debate was Bidens first opportunity in this campaign to show a new, presidential side of himself to American voters. He didnt succeed.

Instead, we saw the same old Joe. A decent guy, albeit a bit garrulous. A person of unusual mannerisms, such as his tendency to grin broadly for no obvious reason. A man with a plan.

Whats not clear is whether this is enough to make him president.

A CNN poll calculated that 60 per cent of those who watched the debate thought Biden had won. That sounds impressive until we remember that 60 per cent of viewers thought Hillary Clinton had won the first debate of her losing 2016 campaign against Trump.

Thomas Walkom is a Toronto-based freelance contributing columnist for the Star. Reach him via email: is a Toronto-based freelance contributing columnist for the Star. Reach him via email: walkomtom@gmail.com

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A RETIRED station officer has warned that Limerick could lose out on being the location of a state-of-the-art fire service training centre if it doesn't get the green light at a critical council meeting this Thursday.

If this doesnt work out I would find it hard to imagine this facility going to another site in Limerick, Greg Conway of Kilmallock told the Leader this week.

Last week a story on the front page of this paper outlined concerns raised by local councillor PJ Carey that the approval of the training centre in Kilmallock may result in the loss of a big employer, Dansko Foods, in the locality.

A special meeting in relation to the fire centre takes place in the town this Thursday when councillors of the Cappamore-Kilmallock municipal district will vote on the matter.

Cllr PJ Carey is opposed to the planning application on an 8.5 acre site at Kilmallock Business Park saying that if these plans go ahead none of these current businesses [in the business park] will ever be able to expand.

I believe the industrial estate should be kept as it is zoned - industrial. I work in the estate in lrema and worked there prior to this in Lynch Freight. No new businesses will ever be started there again. The interests of the people in the area, in my view, are best served by bringing employment into the industrial estate, he stated last week.

However, according to Mr Conway, the benefits of the training centre to the town are immeasurable.

Training firefighters is an essential part of firemanship and is a necessary requirement under health and safety. This training centre when operational would also act as a business for Limerick City and County Council and would be a big asset to the town in general as firefighters attending courses from other counties would require accommodation, meals, refreshments etc, he said.

I also understand the concerns that other businesses and industries have with their future developments but I do believe that an arrangement can be made to suit all involved. There was a plan some years ago to further expand and develop the business park on the Bruree Road but because of the slow uptake of units this development did not go ahead but maybe now is the time to revisit that plan.

The planning application for the training centre is at an advanced stage and according to Mr Conway if this training centre does not get approval then the council would have to find an alternative site, purchase it and get planning permission. This would take years.

In relation to securing a site for the centre outside the town, Mr Conway said: the thing about that is where we are looking at in this business park, all the services are there already - the sewerage, the water systems, everything. And to go to a green site and start all over again would cost a fortune which the council would not be able to do.

Mr Conway said he understands the concerns some people may have in relation to parts of the training where fires would be lit in the smokehouse.

These fires are managed in a controlled environment and by professional instructors. I have been to many training centres during my 37 years service and nearly all of them are built in the towns such as Clonmel, Bray, Hacketstown, Sligo etc, he outlined. I am calling on all of the councillors to seriously consider the benefits that this new training centre would bring to Kilmallock town. I trust that the councillors will make the right decision on Thursday and we can look forward to a prosperous future in Kilmallock.

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WORKERS at King Johns Castle and Bunratty Castle have criticised the government, claiming they have not met a funding commitment to keep the attractions open.

The drawbridge was set to be pulled up on the two local tourist attractions at the end of August, but an 11th hour reprieve from government saw a 2.6m funding commitment announced.

This would have kept the sites open until at least the end of 2020.

However, Siptu organiser Rachel Keane has now alleged government has reneged on this agreement.

In a statement, she said: At a meeting with the management of Shannon Heritage today our members were stunned by the news that the promise by the Government to provide 2.6 million to ensure that these iconic Shannon Heritage sites would remain open until the end of the year will not be honoured.

The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic has been devastating for sites run by Shannon Heritage. However, Siptu members ensured that these sites were maintained and developed in order to offer an attractive experience for visitors from within Ireland. Our members welcomed the announcement in August that the Government intended to provide 2.6 million in funding to keep the sites managed by Shannon Heritage open until the end of December. Today, it was revealed that the funding that will be provided falls far short of that outlined in the initial announcement, she added.

For its part, a spokesperson for the Shannon Group said they still await final details of the government funding.

But we understand it will cover the incremental operational losses of keeping Bunratty Castle & Folk Park and King Johns Castle open from September 1 to December 31, 2020, they added.

Sinn Fein Senator Paul Gavan has called for urgent clarification from the Tourism Minister Catherine Martin, alongside assurance the funding will be delivered upon.

He added: If this government forces our heritage sites to close it will never be forgotten or forgiven.

Siptu activist, Caroline OSullivan, said: We know the importance of these sites to our heritage and to tourism in the region. The Government is now reneging on its promise to ensure the stability and security of our history and our jobs. We were assured that we would be receiving funds to support us through this unprecedented crisis, which is far from over, but that support has now been withdrawn without any consultation.

The Limerick Leader has contacted the Department of Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht for comment.
A sign warns against the Covid-19 virus near the Navajo Indian nation town of Tuba City, Arizona on May 24, 2020.

A sign warns against the Covid-19 virus near the Navajo Indian nation town of Tuba City, Arizona on May 24, 2020. Credit - Mark RalstonAFP via Getty Images

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Back in March, as the coronavirus impact on the U.S. was coming into focus and Congress was ready with a $2.2 trillion relief package, lawmakers carved out an $8 billion chain of earmarks to specifically aid Native Americans health care, education, housing and governance.

Except, as an appellate court here in Washington declared last week, not all Native Americans. Per the ruling, those who participate in unique government creations for Native populations in Alaska are not eligible to access this pot of money because they are part of for-profit Alaska Native corporations  and not the tribal governments that are established for those in the Lower 48. Its a fissure among First People populations that reflects the complex rivalries for access to government funds to address systemic oppression that dates to early settlers land grabs.

The ruling was a set-back for Alaskans who were eyeing as much as a half-billion dollars to help preserve air service during the coronavirus-driven economic crisis to almost 200 communities inaccessible by road, to buy medical supplies and food, and to offset the economic hardships of Native Americans living in the northernmost state. Roughly 30 Alaska Native communities lack running water, hardly a helpful fact as they look to fight a global pandemic.

Even in ruling against the Alaskans, Judge Karen LeCraft Henderson said it was clear that Congress had meant for their inclusion in the pandemic relief package, commonly known as the CARES Act. The court just couldnt get around what it saw as a technical glitch in existing laws.

It is indisputable that the services ANCs provide to Alaska Native communities  including healthcare, elder care, educational support and housing assistance  have been made only more vital due to the pandemic, she wrote. I can think of no reason that the Congress would exclude ANCs.

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Indeed, lawmakers from both parties, as well as the Trump Administrations Interior and Treasury departments, had meant for cash to go to Alaska Native corporations, which were birthed from a 1971 settlement with the federal government over land claims, but did not follow the traditional tribal-government structure like those in the Lower 48. It was an alternative structure to the established reservation system, and was meant to give Native Alaskans more control over their own resources.

And resources they have. The 13 Alaska corporations control 44 million acres of land in the state  larger than the entire state of Florida  and the natural resources found on and under them, including oil. The corporations are Alaskas largest private landowner and employ 15,000 people. These corporations are an economic force when times are good and a safety net when things are not. The CDC reports Native Americans and Alaska Natives are facing a disproportionate caseload, the local Alaska Native corporations are doubling social service organizations and Alaskas brutal winter is quickly approaching.

We are held hostage by polarization and the ways Congress works, says Nathan Yaa Ndakin Yeil McCowan, the chairman of the Alaska Native Village Corporation Association. Alaska can be an insular place.  Alaska is a unique place. The Alaska Native situation and our paradigm up here is a unique one. That doesnt mean that its lesser or inferior.

But the corporations part has been a tough pill for other Native Americans who participate in the federal reservation system, who see the for-profit structure as an unfair advantage to the Alaskans. Those Native Americans  along with six tribes in Alaska  opposed the for-profit Alaska Native corporations inclusion in CARES Act funding. Their lawsuit looking to block Treasury from allocating cash to Alaskans lost on its first round, prevailed on appeal last week and seems to be heading to the Supreme Court, even if Alaskan leaders havent yet settled on any particulars.

The CARES Act leaned on a 1975 law that provided rights to Native Americans. In that earlier law, as amended, Indian tribe included Alaska Native corporations if they are recognized as eligible for the special programs and services provided by the United States to Indians because of their status as Indians. A three-judge panel at the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals decided that the corporations didnt fit that definition.

Alaskas delegation issued a joint statement condemning the ruling. Everyone involved expects the case to head to the Supreme Court  not just for the importance of the cash at hand but for future access to other programs designed to help Native Americans. If the ruling were expanded, it would create a two-tier system for those operating in the reservation system in the Lower 48 and a go-it-alone approach for those operating in Alaska. The very question of whether the United States has an obligation to its Native American and Alaska Native population could hinge on whether their oppression was compensated through a tribal government on a reservation or a corporate board on the tundra.

They need to have a better understanding of what ANCs actually are and what they provide to their communities, says Melissa Berns, a board member of the Old Harbor Native Corporation that includes her home on Kodiak Island. ANCs arent just about providing a dividend to their shareholders. Theyre providing to their communities as a whole. They support housing, theyre an economic driver, they support education. Our ANC set up a food distribution program and provides H.R. support and accounting support and grant management for our tribes and our cities. A lot of that can go to the wayside if our ANCs need to do a cutback.

The CARES Act was far from perfect. But it moved to add extra money for unemployment benefits, state and local governments and front-line workers. It came together quickly and was always going to have hiccups, such as a tricky small-business loan program that benefited borrowers who already had relationships with their bankers.

But the definition of who is a Native American  and how that population operates in one state  wasnt one of the things lawmakers anticipated being a problem. It is now, and time is running short to fix it. Under the CARES Act, the Native American money has until the end of the year to be distributed or it becomes unavailable. Washingtons rush may leave Alaskans out in the cold, once again.

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In Gio we trust.

Thats the main takeaway from Mike Francesa following the New York Yankees' two-game sweep of the Cleveland Indians in the American League Wild Card Series.

Third baseman Gio Urshela powered the win with a grand slam and stellar defense in Game 2, a 10-9 Yankees victory which sets up an AL Division Series showdown with the Tampa Bay Rays. You wont find a bigger fan of Urshela right now than Francesa, who sang the 28-year-olds praises on Twitter.

Urshelas play in the 8th just brilliant. Cletis or Nettles couldnt have done better.

I am amazed at how good, how consistent and how clutch Urshela has become. He has made himself an invaluable performer.

Introducing Yankees Insider: Get exclusive news, behind-the-scenes observations and the ability to text message directly with beat writers

Despite Urshelas standout performance, Francesa warns the ALDS against Tampa Bay will be no cakewalk.

Cleveland walked 12 guys and misplayed at least five balls in the field. The Yanks will have to raise their game a few levels to beat the Rays.

Game 1 between the Rays and Yankees is Monday, Oct. 5 at Petco Park in San Diego, Calif. It will be the first postseason meeting for the American League East division rivals.

Tampa Bay took 8 of 10 this season from New York, winning the division by seven games.

Get Yankees text messages: Cut through the clutter of social media and text during games with beat writers and columnists. Plus, exclusive news and analysis every day. Sign up now.

Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription.

Mike Rosenstein may be reached at mrosenstein@njadvancemedia.com. Tell us your coronavirus story or send a tip here.
Everett-based fashion designer Angela Volk has been working in the field for around seven years, creating unique Ukrainian themed pieces.

Volk is originally from Ukraine and moved to Canada in 2004, after completing a degree in Accounting and Bookkeeping at Humber College. She spent about a decade working in the field before leaving her job in 2014 to fully dedicate her time towards wool felting.

I was doing art as a hobby for all my life. It was always something, painting or oil painting or acrylic painting, flowers arrangements, said Volk.

A Ukrainian friend sent her a wool felting video several years ago and since then shes been hooked.

I liked it a lot and I started to dig up videos, master classes and books, so Im a self learner and I learned it through the Master Classes on YouTube mostly, noted Volk. I quit my accounting job in 2014 and since that I am a full time artist.

She told The Times she loves wool felting as its one of the oldest organic and nature-friendly textile methods of crafting.

Through her work, Volk says she aims to resurrect humanitys connection with the natural world. All of her works are infused with her love and admiration of forgotten cultural folklore ranging from Neolithic to Iron age and beyond.

Volk creates witch hats and hats with horns, which she says are always popular. In addition to the hats, she makes dresses, brooches, scarves, wool pendants, wool art and necklaces.

Volk runs an Etsy store where she sells her artistic creations, but business came to a grinding halt back in March, when the pandemic started. She said it was difficult for the last several months but business is slowly picking back up.

Volks signature event where she sells most her products is at a three day long Ukrainian Festival in Toronto thats hosted in September each year, which was cancelled due to COVID-19.

Shes a South Simcoe Arts Council Member and has hosted a handful of wool felting workshops in the past which she hopes to get back to doing when its safe.

Volk told The Times shes slowly updating her store with new pieces and hopes the art community can get back to safely doing shows and events soon.
COHOES -- State Department of Environmental Conservation technicians in coming weeks will take soil and water samples around the Norlite aggregate plant to see if PFAS from firefighting foam incinerated there poses a pollution and possible health threat.

"Soil and water testing is an essential step in getting our community answers they want, Mayor Bill Keeler said Thursday at a press conference with DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos and lawmakers.

The tests come after revelations earlier in the year that Norlite had incinerated 2.4 million pounds of Aqueous Film Forming Foam, or AFFF, in 2018 and 2019.

AFFFs have emerged as a health concern since they contain PFAS, or Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances. PFAS, widely used in numerous industries, are associated with health problems including cancers and thyroid ailments. Discovery of similar compounds from nearby chemical plants have prompted an overhaul of the Hoosick Falls water system amid worries about clusters of illnesses there. AFFF is an effective fire retardant but its being phased out over health concerns.

Norlite has a pair of high temperature kilns it uses to process construction and road-building aggregate from the rock it mines on site. The kilns burn a variety of hazardous wastes to heat the aggregate. The burning of AFFF, which is legal, came after the company agreed to collect and dispose of the firefighting foam from military bases and fire departments in the Northeast.

Cohoes has since placed a moratorium on incinerating AFFF and lawmakers have passed legislation that would ban it entirely in New York.

Working with the state Health Department, DEC will collect samples from upwind, downwind, and background locations to study the potential deposition of contaminants like heavy metals and PFAS. Theyll review the samples to see if there has been contamination. It plans taking 25 water and 22 soil samples.

Norlites incineration permit is up for renewal. Due in part to the AFFF that has been burned there, DEC is treating the renewal as a new permit and findings of contamination would likely change the guidelines for a permit.

Were going to let the data guide us, Seggos said.

The sampling comes as the federal EPA is determining if AFFF can be safely incinerated. There are concerns over since AFFF by its very nature as a fire suppressant is extremely heat resistant.

In April, researchers from Bennington College collected three soil samples and four water samples around the plant. They found PFAS levels were more prevalent downwind, suggesting they werent being fully incinerated.

Nominate your favorite people and places now Its the 25th anniversary of our Best of the Capital Region readers survey. Nominate your favorite people, places and businesses between Jan. 21 and Feb. 4.

A group involved in that research, including former EPA regional administrator and Bennington faculty member Judith Enck, in September voiced concerns to DEC about the state testing plan. One worry was that waters around Norlite such as Salt Kill Creek would in part be compared to Patroon Creek, another polluted creek in Albany.

They should instead use a cleaner creek as a control rather than another polluted creek. Just because other polluted areas may contain PFAS doesnt mean that the Norlite area doesnt need a cleanup, said Enck.

A DEC letter responding to those worries said Patroon Creek was selected as a sample location to provide comparison to a similarly situated urban waterway, but will not be used to determine if the area around Norlite needs a cleanup or other mitigation.

Additionally, DEC noted they also will test another body of water Schuyler Creek, for sampling.

More for you Study finds PFAS contamination in Cohoes around Norlite incinerator

DECs announcement comes as activists continue to push Gov. Andrew Cuomo to sign a bill, passed last session in the legislature, for a permanent AFFF incineration ban.

rkarlin@timesunion.com 518 454 5758 @RickKarlinTU
Sunitha Natti By

Express News Service

As the famous saying goes, theres such a thing as being too late and the government must sit up and take note. While developed countries, despite plonking down trillions in fiscal stimulus, are readying another round, Indias response has been less than desired and very little is heard about Stimulus-2.

This, just when multi-lateral agencies have sounded the bugle about a double-dip recession. Last week, the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in its Trade and Development Report 2020 cautioned that India may see a growth recovery in 2021 alright, but the contraction this year will likely translate into a permanent income loss.

Thats worrying because the later the revival efforts come in, the sharper the income losses could be. The report also warned that there would be no full recovery even if governments continued with current stimulus policies. Forecasters talk of a V-shaped recovery can easily mislead. Such a recovery would require double-digit global growth next year, which is out of the question, it noted.

The extent of contraction in India is deepening with analysts revising forecasts upwardsto levels unseen in Indian historyand it remains to be seen if the timing of Stimulus-2 will be a drag on the economy instead of aiding recovery.

A double-dip recession is when recovery begins but fizzles out, leading to contraction. The UN says the global economy will likely begin recovery next year, but fizzle out and contract again in 2022. This year, notwithstanding the over $7 trillion spent by countries, the global economy is expected to contract by an estimated 4.3 per cent. In other words, about $6 trillion worth of output will be wiped out, which is equivalent to the size of the Brazilian, Indian and Mexican economies together.

In short, the world is grappling with the equivalent of a complete wipeout of the Brazilian, Indian and Mexican economies. And as domestic activity contracts, so goes the international economy; trade will shrink by around one-fifth this year, foreign direct investment flows by up to 40% and remittances will drop over $100 billion, UNCTAD said. It added that wrong policy steps, ignoring the experience of the global financial crisis, could trigger further shocks which could not only derail recovery but usher in a lost decade. The greatest... damage will be in the developing world, where levels of informality are high, commodities and tourism, major sources of foreign exchange, and fiscal space has been squeezed under a mountain of debt, it warned.
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Lycoming College is marking today  International Coffee Day  as the jumping off point for a month-long celebration of coffee and fundraising initiatives. For the month of October, the Colleges Warrior Coffee Program has pledged to boost support for Warrior Coffee farmers to help sustain them during the COVID-19 pandemic. Included in these efforts are a virtual coffee tasting event and increased contributions from sales of Warrior Coffee through the Alabaster Coffee Roaster and Tea Co. website.

Since 2013, Lycoming College ventures in the Dominican Republic have continued to provide students with real-world opportunities in which they can apply what theyve learned about responsible, sustainable development to help a community in need. The events of the coming month will inject much-needed resources into Dominican communities so farmers can continue to safely tend coffee plants during the pandemic, rather than abandon farming in search of opportunities in crowded and distant metropolitan areas.

The month-long effort to boost support for remote mountain farming families in the Dominican Republic, where Warrior Coffee originates, will see Alabaster increase its usual contribution to the Warrior Coffee Program, kicking in $5.25 for every bag of Warrior Gold and Warrior Blue sold on the Alabaster website for the 31-day stretch. Alabaster is a key partner in the journey from bean to brew, roasting Warrior Coffee just blocks from the Lycoming College campus and selling the coffees online.

In addition, a virtual Warrior Coffee tasting event is slated for Saturday, Oct. 24, at 10 a.m., via Zoom. Caroline Payne, Ph.D., associate professor of political science and director of the Warrior Coffee Project, and Brittney Gross 18, former Warrior Coffee international development fellow and current roasting/production lead at Alabaster, will guide virtual attendees through a taste-and-learn event to introduce participants to two single-lot brews available exclusively through this event and not sold elsewhere. Participation is $25 per household, a portion of which will go directly to the Warrior Coffee Project. Call 570.321.4376 or visit https://app.mobilecause.com/form/e8hdLg?vid=bu53v before Oct. 10 to register.

It is imperative that we respond to the pandemic and act quickly with emergency relief. The survival and success of our mountain farming families not only helps to ensure our investment in the growing enterprises that feed the Warrior Coffee supply chain, but also learning opportunities for our students, said Payne. Perhaps most importantly, however, is the immediate delivery of funds that helps the College fulfill its moral obligation to responsibly maintain its relationship with these farmers, which has been carefully fostered for many years. While some funds have already been sent, more is needed and very soon.

Even without the ability to conduct travel to the Dominican Republic, the Warrior Coffee Project will continue to support ongoing development projects this year and work with farmers to identify new projects needed in light of COVID-19.

Rounding out the month of activities, Payne will be a featured speaker at TEDx Williamsport on Oct. 17, discussing the potential pitfalls of international service learning. Using the framework of the Warrior Coffee project, she will discuss how service organizations can ensure the creation of long-term, sustainable growth in communities where they work and avoid the negative externalities that often accompany international service, avoiding 21st-century colonialism.

The purchase of Warrior Coffees supports educational opportunities for Lycoming College students to study and conduct research in the developing world. Students from all majors have the chance to learn the science of growing coffee while designing and implementing community and economic development projects relevant to their major. Learn more and make a gift to the program at https://www.lycoming.edu /coffee/.
The fire on the territory of PJSC Severodonetsk Azot did not affect the work of its production shops, Oleh Arestarkhov, director of corporate communications of Group DF, told Interfax-Ukraine.

"The fire that took place on the territory of Severodonetsk Azot tonight will not affect in any way the work of the main production workshops of the fertilizer company," he said on Thursday.

According to Arestarkhov, at present, the technological complex of the industrial wastewater neutralization and purification workshop is operating normally.

"All 100% of the contracts for the supply of fertilizers will be fulfilled without interruptions," said the corporate communications director at Group DF.

He reported that on September 30 at about 20:00 because of the ongoing fires in Luhansk region, an emergency occurred at Severodonetsk Azot: grass, bushes and trees caught fire on the territory of the industrial wastewater neutralization and purification workshop. The emergency and rescue services of the enterprise quickly arrived at the scene of fire and extinguished the fire within several hours, Arestarkhov said. According to him, an operational headquarters has been created and is operating at the enterprise, which monitors the situation related to fires in Luhansk region.

In addition, to enhance security, a round-the-clock staff watch was organized, an additional check of all equipment necessary for fire extinguishing was carried out and personnel were instructed on safety measures, added Group DF's corporate communications director.

PrJSC Severodonetsk Azot is one of the largest Ukrainian chemical enterprises, part of Dmytro Firtash's Group DF since 2011. The main activity of the enterprise is the production of mineral nitrogen fertilizers.
- Judge John Onyiego released Waluke and Wakhungu on KSh 10 million and KSh 20 million cash bail respectively

- The State filed an appeal seeking to overturn the ruling, which Noordin noted would draw back success made in the corruption case so far

- The two convicts will have to wait until October 14 when the matter will come up for hearing

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The Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) Noordin Haji has expressed his dissatisfaction with the court's decision to release corruption convicts MP John Waluke and Grace Wakhungu.

High Court judge John Onyiego on Monday, September 28, freed Waluke on a KSh 10 million cash bail with an alternative of KSh 20 million bond.

MP John Waluke and Grace Wakhungu at the Milimani Law Courts after they were found guilty of fraud. Zipporah Weru/TUKO.co.ke.

Source: Original

Draw back success

The first accused was directed to pay KSh 20 million cash bail or KSh 30 million bond in order to secure her conditional release from the Lang'ata Women's Womens Prison.

The State filed an appeal at the Court of Appeal seeking to overturn the ruling, which Noordin noted would draw back success made in the corruption case so far.

Take notice that the DPP, being dissatisfied with the decision of the High Court intends to appeal to the Court of Appeal against the decision in which the court released each of the appellants on bail pending their appeal, he said in a notice filed on Wednesday, September 30.

DPP Noordin Haji filed appeal against the ruling seeking to overturn it. Photo: Judiciary Kenya.

Source: Facebook

Sentencing

They were sentenced on June 25, 2020, after being found guilty of defrauding National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) a KSh 313 million in a maize scam.

Waluke and Wakhungu were fined KSh KSh 707 and KSh 727 million or serve or a 39-year sentence or a 34-year sentence in default respectively.

The court heard that the two who were named as the directors of Erad Supplies and General Contracts Limited had won the tender for supply 40,000 metric tonnes of maize to NCPB.

However, the board, later on, cancelled the award of the tender for lack of fund leading to a legal tussle between it and the accused persons.

Mitigation

During the sentencing, Waluke's lawyers Danstan Omari, Sam Nyaberi and Cliff Ombeta argued the legislator had many dependents and was also ailing at the same time.

"The accused person is a husband to two wives who are dependent to the MP. He is a father and grandfather. Apart from family responsibilities, he is supporting orphans within Sirisia,"pleaded Nyaberi.

The convicts successfully applied to be released on bond pending hearing and determination of their appeal.

The MP's lawyers argued that the witness statements which the magistrate court relied on to sentence the lawmaker did not directly link him to the charges of fraud.

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Southeast Community College is led by an 11-member board of governors that meets on the third Tuesday of every month.

Two members are elected from each of the board's five districts, and an 11th is elected at-large. Board members serve four-year terms and are not compensated beyond reimbursement for SCC-related expenses.

SCC has three campuses  in Lincoln, Beatrice and Milford  and operates learning centers in communities across 15 counties in Southeast Nebraska. More than 14,000 students enrolled at SCC in vocational training, academic transfer programs or dual credit courses last year.

Two Lincoln incumbents are running unopposed this year: Edward C. Price in District 3 and Kristin E. Yates in District 4. In District 5, Arlyn Uhrmacher is the only candidate for the seat being vacated by Robert Feit.

In District 1, Lynn Schluckebier is not seeking reelection. Chuck Byers of McCool Junction and Jeanne H. Stec of Crete are competing to replace him.

Chad Aldrich of Wahoo is challenging incumbent Kathy Boellstorff of Johnson in District 2.

Incumbent Timothy R. Cerveny of Wilber was appointed in January to fill the at-large seat of Steve Ottmann after he died. Cerveny will be on the ballot with Neal Stenberg of Lincoln.

The races are nonpartisan.

Candidates for SCC Board of Governors:

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When you have a police department thats not diverse or you have a police department that doesnt live in local communities  and by local communities I mean often Black, Latino or low-income communities  what happens is that Black and Latino youth, low-income youth, they never see police officers unless theyre doing something to them or to people who they love and care about, Ray said. Why would you want to go into a profession where every time you see somebody, theyre harassing somebody or arresting someone?
Were all well aware of the frustrations caused by the millions of nuisance robocalls flooding our cellphones and landlines each day, but this particular message poses grave consequences for our democracy and the principles upon which it was built, Nessel said. Michigan voters are entitled to a full, free and fair election in November, and my office will not hesitate to pursue those who jeopardize that.
She's never been shy of making a bold style statement.

And Ashley Roberts was proudly flaunting her endless pins in a colourful knitted jumper dress as she headed out of Global Radio on Thursday.

The Pussycat Dolls star, 39, put on a leggy display in the Forever Unique dress with a statement dragon print as she headed into London after appearing on the Heart FM breakfast show.

Looking good: Ashley Roberts, 39, was proudly flaunting her endless pins in a colourful knitted jumper dress as she headed out of Global Radio on Thursday

Ashley proudly flaunted her slender physique in a form-fitting blue dress with a red and yellow dragon print that wrapped around her body.

The Strictly Come Dancing star teamed the knitted dress with matching red pointed-toe heels and a Louis Vuitton handbag.

Ashley finished her outfit with a matching red lip as she exited the studio after hosting the breakfast show with Amanda Holden and Jamie Theakston.

Gorgeous: The Pussycat Dolls star put on a leggy display in the Forever Unique dress with a statement dragon print as she headed into London

Sensational: Earlier in the day Ashley shared a glimpse of her chic presenting look with fans on Instagram

Earlier in the day Ashley also shared glimpse of her latest presenting look with fans on Instagram, writing: 'When its sweata weatha but you still wanna give the pins a lil breeze  1/10/2020.'

Ashley turned 39 last month, and was spoilt with cakes, champagne and cards from her extended family at Heart Radio.

The media personality recently revealed she is open to the idea of adopting a child in the future.

Speaking in an interview with Fabulous magazine in July, she said: 'I'm definitely open to the idea of adoption.

'You just never know what the future is going to bring and the most important thing is to be happy and, whether my body naturally has kids or not, we'll see what life brings. I'm definitely open to that.'

Lovely: The Strictly Come Dancing star teamed the knitted dress with matching red pointed-toe heels and a Louis Vuitton handbag

Amazing: Ashley finished her outfit with a matching red lip as she exited the studio after hosting the breakfast show with Amanda Holden and Jamie Theakston

The blonde also reflected on dating following her split from Italian Strictly Come Dancing professional Giovanni Pernice, 30.

They called time on their year-long romance in January after meeting during Ashley's stint on the BBC One dance competition in late 2018.

The TV star said: 'I'm good on my own, though. I'm pretty independent. It's nice to have that connection with someone, but at the moment lockdown is still [effectively] here, so "me" is where it is.'
A Queensland border town mayor questions whether the border bubble expanded too far, too fast, as police and transport officers face an influx of travellers without the support of defence personnel.

Thursday marked the expansion of the Queensland border bubble to include the NSW local government areas of Byron Shire, Ballina, the city of Lismore, Richmond Valley and Glen Innes.

A soldier and police officer patrol Queensland's border with NSW near Hebel in central-southern Queensland. Credit:ADF

As a potential 152,000 NSW residents were granted access into Queensland at 1am, the army personnel left the border checkpoints to focus on guarding those in hotel quarantine.

Goondiwindi mayor Lawrence Springborg, the former state LNP leader, said the border bubble expansion was a big jump in numbers of people allowed to travel interstate.
Kuwaitis await new crown prince as Arab leaders mourn late emir Arab leaders head to Kuwait to offer condolences for late ruler and defender of Arab detente

By Ahmed Hagagy

KUWAIT (Reuters) - Arab leaders headed to Kuwait on Thursday to offer condolences for the death of its ruler Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad, who worked to unify a polarised region, as Kuwaitis waited for the new emir to name a crown prince to help guide state affairs.

Jordan's king, the presidents of Egypt and former occupier Iraq, and Oman's sultan were among those paying respects to Emir Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad al-Sabah, the brother and successor of Sheikh Sabah, who died on Tuesday aged 91.

Gulf power Saudi Arabia, with which Kuwait has its closest but most complex relationship, was represented by Mansour bin Mutib, an adviser to King Salman, who had surgery in July and whose son Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is de facto ruler.

Bahrain, who joined Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates in boycotting neighbouring Qatar in a row that Sheikh Sabah tried in vain to end, sent its crown prince.

Qatar's emir was the only Gulf ruler to attend Wednesday's funeral rites for Sheikh Sabah, who was admired around the world for his humanitarian efforts and pursuit of moderation and balance in a region mired in conflict.

Sheikh Nawaf, who lacks his brother's diplomatic heft, is likely to uphold U.S.-allied Kuwait's foreign policy but may struggle to navigate between a new generation of Sunni Muslim Gulf leaders who have taken a more hawkish approach, especially against Shi'ite rival Iran, with which Kuwait maintained ties.

NEW CROWN PRINCE

The focus now for the low-profile Sheikh Nawaf will be naming a crown prince at a time when low oil prices and COVID-19 have hit the finances of the OPEC member state, which has a cradle-to-grave welfare system.

"He is the world's oldest crown prince at 83 so it is uncertain how long his reign will last and makes it crucial whom he will appoint as (the next) crown prince," said Courtney Freer, fellow researcher at LSE Middle East.

Under the constitution, the emir has up to a year to name an heir but analysts expect a decision in the coming weeks as dozens of senior al-Sabah dynasty members jostle for position. Parliament must approve the choice.

Story continues

"The choice of crown prince will indicate the emir's ability to control differences within the family...and clarify to the people whether there will be a continued smooth transition of power," said Haitham Abu Hossein, a small business owner.

Among the mooted candidates are the late emir's eldest son Sheikh Nasser Sabah al-Ahmad, 72; his nephew Sheikh Nasser al-Mohammad, 79; and his brother Sheikh Meshal al-Ahmad al-Jaber.

Kuwaiti sources and a diplomat told Reuters this week that Meshal, deputy chief of the National Guard, appears most likely to get the role that traditionally manages the government's often difficult relationship with the parliament.

Last year, business-minded Sheikh Nasser Sabah, who lost his job as defence minister in late 2019 amid ruling family infighting over alleged government corruption, was seen as front runner and the sources said he remains a strong contender.

(Reporting by Ahmed Hagagy, Aziz El Yaakoubi, Dahlia Nehme and Alexander Cornwell; Writing by Ghaida Ghantous; Editing by Mark Heinrich)
Washington Post photo by Salwan Georges

"Canary: The Washington Post Investigates" follows the intertwining stories of two women, separated by decades and united by a shared refusal to stay silent. Hosted by reporter Amy Brittain, The Post's first long-form investigative podcast chronicles what it takes for survivors to step forward and why it matters.

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U S heiress Clare Bronfman has been sentenced to six years and nine months in prison for her role in the Nxivm sex trafficking group.

Bronfman, 41, pleaded guilty in April 2019 to to harbouring migrants for unpaid "labour and services".

The group is alleged to have manipulated, enslaved and blackmailed its members as part of what federal prosecutors labelled a racketeering conspiracy.

Bronfman joined the organisation, led by New York businessman Keith Raniere, in 2003 and provided financial backing, prosecutors said.

She is the youngest daughter of the late billionaire philanthropist and former Seagram distillery mogul Edgar Bronfman Sr.

The heiress and five others, including Raniere, were indicted in March 2018.

Bronfman is the first to be sentenced.

Raniere, found guilty at trial in June 2019 of sex trafficking, forced labor and other felonies, is due to be sentenced on October 27.

The five other co-defendants pleaded guilty to various offences.

The charges Bronfman had faced included racketeering, conspiracy to commit identity theft, encouraging and inducing illegal entry into the United States and money laundering.

She ultimately pleaded guilty to conspiring to harbour immigrants for financial gain and fraudulently using identity information.

Cult allegations surrounding the group had surfaced in news accounts since the early 2000s.

The organisation received national attention from a 2017 New York Times article highlighting experiences of people who had been members.

A nine-part HBO documentary released in 2020 further raised NXIVM's profile and delved at length into the tactics employed by the group.

Bronfman's sentencing suggested that Judge Nicholas Garaufis intends to impose stiff penalties for others convicted as supporters and enablers of the group.

Prosecutors had recommended a five-year sentence for Bronfman, significantly shorter than the 6 years and 9 months that Garaufis handed down.
CHICAGO, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Zing Health, a physician-led Medicare Advantage HMO plan launched last year, announced it will expand its services to 12 new counties, tripling its geographic coverage. Zing's expansion remains true to its mission to provide diverse seniors in the Midwest affordable, personalized health care built around community and member outcomes.

"We are moving beyond Cook County, where we've already made a tremendous difference, to six additional counties in Illinois, three in Indiana and three in Michigan," said Zing Health CEO Eric E. Whitaker, MD. "We were in stealth mode when we came out of the gate last fall, but there's been a great deal of support for our Medicare Advantage plan from the community. So we decided the time was right to expand and continue making a difference for diverse populations with our community-based, personalized healthcare options."

This expansion comes just in time for the Annual Enrollment Period, which runs from Oct. 15-Dec. 7. Included counties are Will, Kane, Winnebago, McHenry, Ogle and Boone in Illinois; Allen, Lake and Marion in Indiana; and Wayne, Oakland and Genesee in Michigan.

In 2021, Zing Health will expand its Medicare Advantage plan offerings beyond its one traditional HMO offering in 2020 with a Point of Service HMO (POS-HMO) and a Chronic Special Needs HMO plan (C-SNP). Also, Zing is licensed to provide Employer Group Waiver Plan (EGWP) options in 2021 to select retiree groups.

Supporting Affordable, Efficient and Superior Health Care

Unlike a health insurance system that is often complicated to navigate and access, especially for underserved populations living in compromised socioeconomic conditions, Zing Health's care model is designed to make it easy for members to access the services they need.

Medicare Advantage offers a suite of comprehensive services that provides members additional value and access to holistic care. These include dental, vision, hearing, fitness programs and morebenefits that people with original Medicare must pay for out-of-pocket unless they have a supplemental plan. This can create health disparities and inequalities in healthcare among minority members.

"We are physician-founded and have done this in partnership with Health 2047the innovation subsidiary of the American Medical Association," Whitaker said. "We understand the pain points that healthcare providers face when dealing with traditional health insurers. In Zing Health, doctors who are normally subject to health insurers have found a plan that puts the member and the physician back into the center of the healthcare equation."

Focusing on the Social Determinants of Health

Zing Health is targeting diverse populations, which proved very successful in Cook County during its first year of business. Of the approximate 5.1 million residents in Illinois' most populous county, 41.9% are African American and 24% are Hispanic.

A focus on the social determinants of health inform Zing Health's tech-enabled community-based approach to care. Its impact teams go out into the community to help its members maintain and improve their health, while Spanish-speaking call center staff and internal sales agents make signing up seamless.

Zing Health's Medicare Advantage plan has been well-received by its Cook County constituentsespecially underserved members who have been guided through the entire process.

"We've tried to mitigate the barriers and access to care in Zing Health's plan, and provide members with a zero-cost share up to the maximum amount the benefit offers," said Saadia Selvie, Zing Health's vice president of sales and marketing. "We've received a tremendous positive response from the providers and community leaders in Illinois. They've been impressed with our leadership team and the understanding we possess of the communities we serve."

"Zing Health understands how social determinants impact health, especially in diverse neighborhoods," said Mike Pykosz, CEO of Oak Street Health, a network of primary care providers with centers in nine states. "They talked with our patients to understand their pain pointssuch as rising costs for insulinand then took those issues into consideration, and helped make those pain points less intrusive when dealing with a Medicare Advantage plan."

Zing Health understands that to make a difference in this world, it needs to consider all the economic and social conditions that influence individual and group differences in health status.

"We build systems that hold us accountable, speed up claim payment and reimbursement, provide fast and accurate responses to questions and offer speedy reevaluation of denied claims to drive better patient outcomes economically," Whitaker said. "Whereas a lot of insurance companies run away from diverse populations, we're running towards them. We want to give our experience, expertise and care to vulnerable populations."

About Zing Health: Zing Health Holdings, Inc. is a groundbreaking insurance company making Medicare Advantage the best it can be for those 65 and over or with long-term disability. It's easy to get lost in the mix at big insurance companies. Zing Health's community-based approach uses the social determinants of health to keep individuals and communities healthy, and returns the physician and the member to the center of the healthcare equation. This gives each member personalized care and service tailored to their singular needs. Members also receive individualized assistance to make their transition to Zing Health as easy as possible, and have the ability to personalize their plans, access to facilities designed to help them better meet their healthcare needs and a dedicated care team. For more information on Zing Health, visit www.myzinghealth.com.

Media Contact:

Zing Health

Purpose Brand

Lisa Skolnik

[email protected]; 773-230-8638

SOURCE Zing Health

Related Links

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Linkedin Editorial board (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Fri, October 2 2020

Indonesia clearly is betting on a vaccine as a quick fix to the debilitating COVID-19 pandemic. President Joko Jokowi Widodo asked his ministers Monday to prepare a detailed road map on the national COVID-19 vaccination program within two weeks, although it remains uncertain whether an effective and safe vaccine will be available anytime soon.

On Wednesday Jokowi reiterated his guarded optimism that between 170 and 180 million doses of vaccine would be available by the end of the year and mass vaccination could begin. The government will allocate about Rp 22 trillion (US$1.5 billion) for the vaccination program.

Indonesia has gone as far as China and the United Arab Emirates to secure a deal to import millions of doses of vaccine, while forging a cooperation with giant pharma companies from China and South Korea to produce COVID-19 vaccine at home. State pharmaceutical company Bio Farma, for example, will be ready to expand its capacity to 250 million doses per month in the first quarter of next year to produce a vaccine being developed by Chinas Sinovac. The candidate vaccine is now entering the final stage of human trials in Bandung, which will run until January next year.

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A disk of hot material around a supermassive black hole emits a burst of visible light, which travels out to a ring of dust that subsequently emits infrared light. The blue arrows show the light from the disk moving toward the dust and the light from both events traveling toward an observer. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech

When you look up at the night sky, how do you know whether the specks of light that you see are bright and far away, or relatively faint and close by? One way to find out is to compare how much light the object actually emits with how bright it appears. The difference between its true luminosity and its apparent brightness reveals an object's distance from the observer.

Measuring the luminosity of a celestial object is challenging, especially with black holes, which don't emit light. But the supermassive black holes that lie at the center of most galaxies provide a loophole: They often pull lots of matter around them, forming hot disks that can radiate brightly. Measuring the luminosity of a bright disk would allow astronomers to gauge the distance to the black hole and the galaxy it lives in. Distance measurements not only help scientists create a better, three-dimensional map of the universe, they can also provide information about how and when objects formed.

In a new study, astronomers used a technique that some have nicknamed "echo mapping" to measure the luminosity of black hole disks in over 500 galaxies. Published last month in the Astrophysical Journal, the study adds support to the idea that this approach could be used to measure the distances between Earth and these faraway galaxies.

The process of echo mapping, also known as reverberation mapping, starts when the disk of hot plasma (atoms that have lost their electrons) close to the black hole gets brighter, sometimes even releasing short flares of visible light (meaning wavelengths that can be seen by the human eye). That light travels away from the disk and eventually runs into a common feature of most supermassive black hole systems: an enormous cloud of dust in the shape of a doughnut (also known as a torus). Together, the disk and the torus form a sort of bullseye, with the accretion disk wrapped tightly around the black hole, followed by consecutive rings of slightly cooler plasma and gas, and finally the dust torus, which makes up the widest, outermost ring in the bullseye. When the flash of light from the accretion disk reaches the inner wall of the dusty torus, the light gets absorbed, causing the dust to heat up and release infrared light. This brightening of the torus is a direct response to or, one might say an "echo" of the changes happening in the disk.

This animation shows the events that serve as the basis of an astrophysics technique called "echo mapping," also known as reverberation mapping. At center is a supermassive black hole surrounded by a disk of material called an accretion disk. As the disk gets brighter it sometimes even releases short flares of visible light. Blue arrows show the light from this flash traveling away from the black hole, both toward an observer on Earth and toward an enormous, doughnut-shaped structure (called a torus) made of dust. The light gets absorbed, causing the dust to heat up and release infrared light. This brightening of the dust is a direct response to  or, one might, say an "echo"  of the changes happening in the disk. Red arrows show this light traveling away from the galaxy, in the same direction as the initial flash of visible light. Thus an observer would see the visible light first, and (with the right equipment) the infrared light later. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech

The distance from the accretion disk to the inside of the dust torus can be vastbillions or trillions of miles. Even light, traveling at 186,000 miles (300,000 kilometers) per second, can take months or years to cross it. If astronomers can observe both the initial flare of visible light in the accretion disk and the subsequent infrared brightening in the torus, they can also measure the time it took the light to travel between those two structures. Because light travels at a standard speed, this information also gives astronomers the distance between the disk and the torus.

Scientists can then use the distance measurement to calculate the disk's luminosity, and, in theory, its distance from Earth. Here's how: The temperature in the part of the disk closest to the black hole can reach tens of thousands of degreesso high that even atoms are torn apart and dust particles can't form. The heat from the disk also warms the area around it, like a bonfire on a cold night. Traveling away from the black hole, the temperature decreases gradually.

Astronomers know that dust forms when the temperature dips to about 2,200 degrees Fahrenheit (1,200 Celsius); the bigger the bonfire (or the more energy the disk radiates), the farther away from it the dust forms. So measuring the distance between the accretion disk and the torus reveals the energy output of the disk, which is directly proportional to its luminosity.

Because the light can take months or years to traverse the space between the disk and the torus, astronomers need data that spans decades. The new study relies on nearly two decades of visible-light observations of black hole accretion disks, captured by several ground-based telescopes. The infrared light emitted by the dust was detected by NASA's Near Earth Object Wide Field Infrared Survey Explorer (NEOWISE), previously named WISE. The spacecraft surveys the entire sky about once every six months, providing astronomers with repeated opportunities to observe galaxies and look for signs of those light "echoes." The study used 14 surveys of the sky by WISE/NEOWISE, collected between 2010 and 2019. In some galaxies, the light took more than 10 years to traverse the distance between the accretion disk and the dust, making them the longest echoes ever measured outside the Milky Way galaxy.

Galaxies Far, Far Away

The idea to use echo mapping to measure the distance from Earth to far away galaxies is not new, but the study makes substantial strides in demonstrating its feasibility. The largest single survey of its kind, the study confirms that echo mapping plays out in the same way in all galaxies, regardless of such variables as a black hole's size, which can vary significantly across the universe. But the technique isn't ready for prime time.

Due to multiple factors, the authors' distance measurements lack precision. Most notably, the authors said, they need to understand more about the structure of the inner regions of the dust doughnut encircling the black hole. That structure could affect such things as which specific wavelengths of infrared light the dust emits when the light first reaches it.

The WISE data doesn't span the entire infrared wavelength range, and a broader dataset could improve the distance measurements. NASA's Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, set to launch in the mid-2020s, will provide targeted observations in different infrared wavelength ranges. The agency's upcoming SPHEREx mission (which stands for Spectro-Photometer for the History of the Universe, Epoch of Reionization and Ices Explorer) will survey the entire sky in multiple infrared wavelengths and could also help improve the technique.

"The beauty of the echo mapping technique is that these supermassive black holes aren't going away anytime soon," said Qian Yang, a researcher at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and lead author of the study, referring to the fact that black hole disks may experience active flaring for thousands or even millions of years. "So we can measure the dust echoes over and over again for the same system to improve the distance measurement."

Luminosity-based distance measurements can already be done with objects known as "standard candles," which have a known luminosity. One example is a type of exploding star called a Type 1a supernova, which played a critical role in the discovery of dark energy (the name given to the mysterious driving force behind the universe's accelerating expansion). Type 1a supernova all have about the same luminosity, so astronomers only need to measure their apparent brightness to calculate their distance from Earth.

With other standard candles, astronomers can measure a property of the object to deduce its specific luminosity. Such is the case with echo mapping, where each accretion disk is unique but the technique for measuring the luminosity is the same. There are benefits for astronomers to being able to use multiple standard candles, such as being able to compare distance measurements to confirm their accuracy, and each standard candle has strengths and weaknesses.

"Measuring cosmic distances is a fundamental challenge in astronomy, so the possibility of having an extra trick up one's sleeve is very exciting," said Yue Shen, also a researcher at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and co-author of the paper.

Explore further Microlensing measurement of a quasar's accretion disk

More information: Qian Yang et al. Dust Reverberation Mapping in Distant Quasars from Optical and Mid-infrared Imaging Surveys, The Astrophysical Journal (2020). Journal information: Astrophysical Journal Qian Yang et al. Dust Reverberation Mapping in Distant Quasars from Optical and Mid-infrared Imaging Surveys,(2020). DOI: 10.3847/1538-4357/aba59b
(Natural News) An environmental professor at Santa Clarita University in California recently blamed the global climate crisis  which he says has resulted in raging wildfires on the West Coast and hurricanes on the East Coast  on none other than white supremacy.

(Article republished from TruePundit.com)

Ted Grudin, who earned his Ph.D. in environmental science from the University of California-Berkeley, wrote an op-ed in the Earth Island Journal last week titled, How White Supremacy Caused the Climate Crisis.

In the op-ed, Grudin asserted that embedded in the theory of racial supremacy is the theory of human supremacy over nature, which has brought environmental calamity upon us.

As Grudin sees it, white supremacy thrives on the accumulation of wealth and power of a select few, namely Caucasians, and the oppression and destruction of everyone and everything else. White people, he argued, have historically believed that dominance and control are their natural rights and have thus sought to colonize peoples and lands.

Fast-forward hundreds of years, and heres the result: Racism, wildfires, and hurricanes.  READ MORE

Listen to the insightful Thomas Paine Podcast Below 

Read more at: TruePundit.com or Libtards.news
Ellysa Harris/Plainview Herald

Representative Ken King will be in the area touring a portion of House District 88 on Oct. 20.

King will be visiting Tulia and Plainview to discuss the forthcoming 87th Regular Legislative Session. King is state representative for House District 88.
Syracuse, N.Y. -- A bankruptcy judge approved the sale of Remingtons huge gun factory in Ilion on Wednesday as part of the arms makers breakup.

U.S. Bankruptcy Court Judge Clifton R. Jessup Jr. of the Northern District of Alabama issued an order approving the sale of the non-Marlin portion of Remingtons firearms business to Roundhill Group LLC for $13 million.

The deal includes Remingtons gun factory in the Herkimer County village of Ilion and its handgun barrel factory in Lenoir City, Tennessee.

Roundhill has issued no public statements regarding the purchase and little is known about it. It appears to be an investment company, which could be good news for the Ilion plant and its more than 700 employees. Not being in the firearms business, it would not have another gun factory to take over the production that is done in Ilion.

The United Mine Workers of America, which represents workers at the Ilion plant, issued a statement Monday saying it was hopeful that Roundhill will agree to keep the factory open. The union said it has been in talks with the company about the plants collective bargaining agreement and expects to resume the discussions following the courts approval of the sale.

Roundhill is one of seven successful bidders in a court-approved auction of Remingtons businesses. Vista Outdoor Inc. is buying the biggest piece. Its purchase of Remingtons ammunition and accessories businesses for $81.4 million was also approved by Jessup on Wednesday.

Altogether, the sales will raise $155 million to be applied to Remingtons debt.

Remington, which was founded in Ilion in 1816, filed for protection from creditors under Chapter 11 of U.S. Bankruptcy Code on July 27. It was the second time in two years that Remington, the nations oldest gun maker, had filed Chapter 11.

The company, which is headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama, never managed to return to profitability after it emerged from bankruptcy court in 2018 with less debt.

Remington had $437.5 million in sales last year, about half its revenues in 2016. The companys gun sales fell sharply following the election of President Donald Trump in 2016. His strong pro-Second Amendment stance eased worries among gun buyers that the federal government would impose stricter gun-control measures.

Rick Moriarty covers business news and consumer issues. Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact him anytime: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 315-470-3148
Israels Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi confirmed Oct. 1 that Israel and Lebanon will soon discuss demarking their maritime border. Talks are expected to be launched after Israel's Sukkoth holiday in mid-October and will be conducted under the auspices of the United States. Lebanon's parliament speaker Nabih Berri has also confirmed the news.

"I would like to thank US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and his staff for their dedicated efforts that have led to the beginning of direct talks between Israel and Lebanon on the demarcation of the maritime boundary. This is an important step that has come after three years of diplomatic contacts and would not have been possible without US mediation. I believe that success in the talks will significantly contribute to the stability of the region and promote prosperity for the citizens of both Israel and Lebanon. I thank Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz for the successful cooperation between our two ministries on advancing this issue," tweeted Ashkenazi.

Steinitz also made a statement, saying, "We look forward to the opening of direct negotiations in the near future. Our objective is to end the dispute over the economic maritime demarcation of the water between Israel and Lebanon in order to help develop natural resources for the benefit of all peoples in the region.

The Israel-Lebanon talks are expected to take place in the southern Lebanon border town Naqoura, at the headquarters of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). As Israel objected to the United Nations mediating the talks, the body will instead host the talks with a UN observer present, but an American team will facilitate them. UNIFIL said in a statement today that it "welcomes today's announcement of a framework agreement to launch negotiations between Lebanon and Israel on maritime border demarcation between the two countries. UNIFIL stands ready to extend to the parties all the support at its disposal and facilitate efforts towards a resolution of this issue."

The US mediation team will apparently be headed by Assistant Secretary of State for Near East Affairs David Schenker, who had been involved in earlier contacts between Jerusalem and Beirut and visited both countries on several occasions in the past few months. On Sept. 8, Schenker said he hoped to sign a framework agreement on starting discussions "in the coming weeks."

Steinitz had been working recently with Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi and other officials in the Foreign Ministry to reach this agreement with Lebanon. The two countries have been at odds over an 860-square-kilometer (534-square-mile) maritime territory for over a decade, since the discovery of possible marine gas fields off the coast. Israeli diplomats noted to Al-Monitor that the two countries had not held direct talks in many years and called the agreement a historic breakthrough.
Actor Sacha Baron Cohens surprise sequel to his 2006 cult hit, Borat! Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan, will debut on Amazon Prime Video on October 23, right before the US presidential elections. The streaming service released the first trailer on Thursday.

Deadline reports that the actor risked his life to make the movie, which was shot in secret immediately after bans on filming were eased after the coronavirus lockdown, making it the first feature to be completed in its entirety after the pandemic hit.

On two days, the actor wore bulletproof vests. On many days, there were risky and dangerous scenarios in shooting, the report said.

In July, it was reported that a fake interview with former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani ended with the police being called. The actor was also spotted pulling pranks at a gun rally in Olympia, Washington. Variety reported that the actor led the crowd to sing along to the racist lyrics of an original song.

Directed by Larry Charles, the first Borat film was a runaway hit, grossing over $260 million against a $18 million budget. It also scored an Oscar nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay. The film was highly controversial, leading to a ban in the entire Arab world except for Lebanon and the United Arab Emirates (which released the film heavily censored).

Also read: A new and improved Sacha Baron Cohen takes on the Silicon Six

No director has so far been revealed for sequel, titled Borat: Gift of Pornographic Monkey to Vice Premiere Mikhael Pence to Make Benefit Recently Diminished Nation of Kazakhstan. But Peter Baynham, Sacha Baron Cohen, Jena Friedman, Anthony Hines, Lee Kern, Dan Mazer, Erica Rivinoja and Dan Swimer have been credited as writers.

Follow @htshowbiz for more

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Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 22:47:50|Editor: huaxia

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WASHINGTON, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump on early Thursday signed a temporary spending bill to keep the federal government running into December, a few minutes after the funding lapsed, according to White House spokesman Judd Deere.

Trump approved the bill after returning from a re-election campaign rally in the northern U.S. state of Minnesota.

The White House Office of Management and Budget said in a memo on Wednesday that federal agencies would not be impacted should Trump miss the midnight deadline to sign the bill, Politico reported.

The U.S. Senate passed the spending bill on Wednesday in an 84-10 vote, just a few hours before the annual spending bill would expire and the government was set to shut down.

House lawmakers approved the bill with a bipartisan vote of 359-57 last week, after House Speaker Nancy Pelosi reached an agreement with Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Republicans on the so-called continuing resolution legislation, which includes 8 billion U.S. dollars in additional food assistance and 21 billion dollars in farm aid.

The agreement will take the threat of a shutdown prior to the November presidential election off the table, but sets up the possibility of a funding fight and potential shutdown after the election and just before the start of a new Congress, according to a report by CNN.

The last government shutdown, from December 2018 to January 2019, was triggered by an impasse over funding for Trump's proposed U.S.-Mexico border wall. It lasted for 35 days, the longest on record.

The stopgap funding measure came as Democratic and Republican lawmakers remain deadlocked over the next COVID-19 relief package, which is much needed to salvage an economy reeling from the pandemic.

Pelosi and Mnuchin resumed their talks earlier this week over a 2.2-trillion-dollar relief proposal newly unveiled by House Democrats, a scaled-back version of a 3.4-trillion-dollar package the Democratic-held House passed in May.

Some Senate Republicans have signaled they are not willing to support any package that costs over 1.5 trillion dollars. Sticking points in negotiations include more aid for state and local government and liability protections for businesses. Enditem
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Crown Resorts' former executive chairman John Alexander has told a public inquiry the casino giant suffered a failure of risk management and corporate governance before 19 employees were arrested and jailed for breaking Chinese gambling laws but could not explain what went wrong.

The long-standing Packer family operative told the NSW Independent Liquor and Gaming Authority inquiry on Thursday that important warnings about Crowns operations in China were not elevated to the groups board ahead of the arrests in October 2016.

Crown director John Alexander fronts the inquiry via video link.

"I can't explain how it occurred," Mr Alexander told the probity inquiry. "Its clearly just a failure for the information to flow upwards. I cant explain why the information was not passed on."

Mr Alexander was the ASX-listed group's deputy chairman from 2007 to 2017 and then its executive chairman until January this year when he stood down following a series of reports by The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age and 60 Minutes about Crowns relationships with organised crime-linked "junket" operators and the risks it exposed its staff to in China. The former Herald and Australian Financial Review editor-in-chief remains a director of Crown.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 18:43:20|Editor: huaxia

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Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, head of the Sudan Sovereign Council (L) and South Sudan President Salva Kiir held aloft the signed peace deal in Juba, capital of South Sudan, Aug. 31, 2020. (Xinhua/Denis Elamu)

China has urged South Sudan's former warring parties to hasten the resolution of outstanding issues within the signed 2018 peace agreement to realize peace and stability after more than six years of conflict.

JUBA, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- South Sudan's former warring parties have been urged to hasten the resolution of outstanding issues within the signed 2018 peace agreement to realize peace and stability after more than six years of conflict.

Hua Ning, Chinese Ambassador to South Sudan said he was pleased with the positive gains achieved since the signing of the revitalized peace deal in Sudan, but also urged the parties to move fast to conclude the remaining issues.

"China hopes the various parties in South Sudan will continue to consolidate the fruits of peace, accelerate the resolution of the remaining issues, completely eliminate conflicts, and achieve national peace and stability," Hua wrote in an opinion published in the local Dawn newspaper in Juba on Wednesday.

"We are pleased to see that breakthroughs have been made in the peace process in South Sudan this year, with the successful formation of a new transitional government, progress in the formation of local governments, and overall compliance with the ceasefire," he added.

Hua disclosed that the peace process in South Sudan is promising but still facing many challenges.

President Salva Kiir and his first vice president Riek Machar are yet to establish the transitional parliament, debate and pass the amended constitution, as well as train and unify the army despite having formed the new transitional unity government in February.

Hua said China is committed to working with all stakeholders to advance the peace process, develop the economy, and promote people's livelihood.

He said that the year 2021 will mark the 10th anniversary of the independence of South Sudan and the 10th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and South Sudan.

"It is also the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China. These are grand events for both China and South Sudan," he said.

Hua revealed that China will provide 50 million U.S. dollars to the China-FAO South Sudan Cooperation Trust Fund, over a period of two years to help with COVID-19 response and the recovery of the economy.

"Despite the adverse effects of COVID-19, China continues to actively promote cooperation with South Sudan in the fields of education, health, energy, and infrastructure, striving to improve people's livelihood and promote economic recovery," he added.

In late August, the Chinese medical expert team arrived in the youngest nation to share their experience and practices with South Sudan in combating the COVID-19 pandemic.

Beijing has already donated 3,000 tons of rice to South Sudan for flood relief and the unification of the army.

He also added that China is committed to promoting a new type of international relations featuring mutual respect, fairness, justice, and win-win cooperation, firmly safeguarding the international system with the UN as the core and the international order based on international law. 
More cases of African swine fever (ASF) has been confirmed in wild boar in Germany - with the total now standing at 38.

While no cases have been recorded in domestic pigs, German officials found more cases in wild boar this week.

All ASF cases have been detected in the state of Brandenburg, a region which borders Poland.

"The state of Brandenburg must now undertake an appropriate adaptation of the existing protection zones and protection measures to prevent a further expansion of the disease," the federal agriculture ministry said on Wednesday (30 September).

According to German pig industry organisation ISN, the Brandenburg state government is looking to erect a permanent fence on the Polish border.

The state's consumer protection minister Ursula Nonnemacher said the plan was initially for a fixed fence in the Spree-Neisse district, with state funds also planned so that permanent fences can be built to the north.

Germany's first ever case of ASF, announced on 10 September, was discovered just six kilometres from the Polish border.

Since then, China, along with Japan, South Korea, Singapore and others, have banned pork imports from the country.

Chinas Ministry of Agriculture explained that the move was intended to 'protect the animal husbandry industry and prevent the spread of the disease'.
UPDATE: Mourning friends flood GoFundMe for teen killed in Bethlehem armed robbery

Three teens charged with homicide in the shooting death of a high school senior in Bethlehem have been ordered held in Northampton County Prison, court papers show.

Gabriel Ramos, 18, of Lehighton, turned himself in to Bethlehem police on Wednesday, accompanied by his attorney, Josh Karoly, according to District Judge John Capobianco.

Ramos was not in custody earlier Wednesday when Northampton County District Attorney Terry Houck announced homicide and related charges would be filed against Ramos and co-defendants Isaac Bringuez and Christopher Nieves, both 16 and from Bethlehem.

The three are charged with killing 17-year-old Aiden Toussaint, of Whitehall Township, during an apparent marijuana deal that turned into a robbery and led to gunfire about 9:35 p.m. Tuesday in the area of Norwood Street and Dearborn Avenue, in Bethlehems Saucon Park.

Ramos, Bringuez and Nieves were all arraigned Wednesday night before Capobianco on charges of homicide, robbery, conspiracy and related crimes.

Capobianco sent them all to the prison without the possibility of bail.

Nieves is represented by attorney John Waldron, and Bringuez did not immediately have counsel.

The three face preliminary hearings to determine if there is sufficient evidence to send the charges against them toward trial in Northampton County Court. All three hearings are tentatively scheduled Oct. 14 before District Judge Nicholas Englesson in his office on Stefko Boulevard in Bethlehem.

Bringuez is accused of arranging to buy a quarter-pound of marijuana from Toussaint, who brought his younger brother and his girlfriend to Saucon Park to make the deal, authorities said. Instead, Bringuez along with Nieves and Ramos took some of the marijuana during an altercation, police allege. Two others reportedly came to the park with the alleged assailants and police know who they are, but they were not immediately charged with any crimes.

Toussaint tried chasing them but was shot with a laser-sighted firearm that witnesses said Ramos had pulled from his waistband, according to police.

Toussaints brother and girlfriend drove off with him and flagged down police in the area of East Fourth Street and Lynn Avenue as officers were responding to the report of shots fired in the park. Toussaint was taken by ambulance to St. Lukes University Hospital, Fountain Hill, where he was pronounced dead of gunshot wounds to the body. The death was ruled a homicide.

Bethlehem police were continuing their investigation.

City police on Wednesday night responded to reported gunfire for a second straight night, this time in the area of Pembroke Road and Garfield Street along the border in Freemansburg. The shootings do not appear to be related.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com.

Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com.
The White House reportedly overruled the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) over a ban on passenger cruises in Florida, in an apparent attempt at appealing to voters in the swing state.

Florida, where Mr Trump and his Democratic opponent Joe Biden have been almost tied in recent polls, typically brings-in billions in income.

But CDC orders, originally introduced in April at the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, had banned cruise passenger ships with a no sail order, in an attempt to control Covid-19s spread.

That order was due to expire on Wednesday, which could have seen Floridas cruise industry restart after a five month absence without an extension.

Making an appeal to the White House coronavirus task force this week, CDC director Robert Redfield reportedly wanted to extend the no sail ban until next year, amid coronavirus concerns.

According to Axios, the CDC was instead overruled at that meeting, with the vice president outlining alternatives.

The White House and CDC later announced that the no sail ban would be extended up-until October 31, in line with the cruise industrys self-imposed deadline - but months before Mr Redfield had requested.

It is the latest point of contention between Mr Redfield and the Trump administration, who were described as undermining the CDC director on public health policy.

Mr Trump, meanwhile, has berated the director for promiting mask wearing and cautioning against his claims that a coronavirus vaccine would soon be possible.

Defending the decision, White House deputy press secretary Brian Morgensrern denied any political motivation behind the October 31 deadline for cruises, in comments made to Axios.

The president, the vice president and the task force follow the science and data to implement policies that protect the public health and also facilitate the safe reopening of our country, he said.
Kendallville, IN (46755)

Today

Cloudy with snow showers this evening and steady snow likely after midnight. Low 19F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 90%. Snow accumulating 1 to 3 inches..

Tonight

Cloudy with snow showers this evening and steady snow likely after midnight. Low 19F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 90%. Snow accumulating 1 to 3 inches.
Residents in Cornwall have been rocked by fifteen earthquakes - in just two days.

A number of locals reported that one tremor was so severe it made their houses shake and windows rattle

The British Geological Survey confirmed tremors measuring up to 1.5 in magnitude have been felt in the county.

The largest of the 15 yesterday (Wed) led to reports of windows rattling.

Residents in Cornwall have been rocked by fifteen earthquakes - in just two days with residents reporting one tremor was so severe it made their houses shake and windows rattle

Twitter user Mark Vanstone shared a graph illustrating the ground motions and a response from Geothermal Engineering

These graphs shared by Twitter user Mark Vanstone show the extent of the ground motions in Cornwall on Wednesdsy

WHAT IS GEOTHERMAL ENERGY? Experts believe there is enough untapped energy in the granite below Cornwall alone to provide 10 per cent of Britain's electricity. Geothermal energy is produced by harnessing the heat from the Earth's core, which is composed of solid and liquid parts and thought to be around 5,430C (9,806F). To produce power from this heat, people must dig extremely deep wells (in excess of a mile underground) and pump water down them. This water is then 'superheated' by the scorching heat inside the Earth and pumped back up, carrying the heat with it and producing steam capable of powering electricity-generating turbines. There are three types of geothermal power plants: dry steam, flash and binary. Dry steam is the oldest form of geothermal technology and takes steam out of the ground and uses it to directly drive a turbine. Flash plants use high-pressure hot water into cool, low-pressure water. And binary plants pass hot water through a secondary liquid with a lower boiling point, which turns to vapour to drive the turbine. Source: Power Technology Advertisement

Geothermal at United Downs, near Redruth, has confirmed the reports were related to geothermal drill testing at the site.

It has now temporarily stopped operations to look into the issue and try to understand the cause.

Twitter User Mark Vanstone tweeted a graph illustrating the five separate responses measured across the local seismometer in an hour.

But other residents didn't share the same level of enthusiasm of the earthquakes as Mr Vanstone.

Fe-up Vicky Calf commented on Cornwall Live's Facebook page: 'Not rocket science is it? Half of Cornwall is missing underground!

'The County has been mined to death. It's like a rabbit's Warren under our homes. Cash cow or not if it's going to cause damage to our homes it should stop now.

But Dr Ryan Law, managing director of Geothermal Engineering told the Mailonline: 'These earthquakes are rare but they are to be expected with this kind of work.

'We have always been transparent with the residents letting them know what is happening at each stage.

'As part of the UDDGP testing we did cause some micro-seismicity.

'Although this was within our regulatory limits we are stopping operations until we understand the cause.

'The tremors are low scale and should not be anything to be afraid of. We apologise if this has caused alarm.

'We were due to stop testing this week anyway and we will not resume work until early November when we will be again consulting residents before work is carried out.'

Geothermal Engineering have been working on a number of projects in the area including working on one that could become the UK's first deep geothermal electricity plant in Cornwall.

Drilling started here in November 2018 what could become the UK's first deep geothermal electricity plant in Cornwall (pictured). Two wells will be drilled through granite rock near St Day, the deepest of which will reach 2.8 miles (4.5km) deep

They began drilling two wells through hot granite rock near St Day, in November 2018 the deepest of which will reach 2.8 miles (4.5km) deep and could power 3,000 homes.

The firm says the aim is to demonstrate the potential of geothermal technology to produce electricity and renewable heat in the UK.

Just last month on September 8 a 3.9 magnitude earthquake sent shockwaves through southern England.

Locals in Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire all reported feeling the tremors - with one saying they 'felt their whole house shake'.

Others told the British Geological Survey (BGS) it felt 'like a convey of HGVs driving past my front door at great speed' with others claiming 'the house had one dramatic shake'.

This water will be fed through a heat exchanger at the surface and re-injected into the ground to pick up more heat from the rocks in a continuous cycle. The extracted heat will be converted into electricity and supplied to the National Grid
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RCMP members often carry out the intrusive, humiliating and dehumanizing act of strip searches on people in custody without proper justification or documentation, a watchdog report says.

The Civilian Review and Complaints Commission for the RCMP on Thursday singled out the national police forces detachment in Iqaluit for particularly egregious behaviour.

The Commission is particularly concerned with the inadequate supervision of members, lack of articulation on files, and overall lack of knowledge of what constitutes a strip search at the Iqaluit Detachment, the report said. Interviews revealed that bras are routinely removed and searches are video-recorded.

In an email, the Qulliit Nunavut Status of Women Council, which seeks to advance the participation of women in the northern territory through social, legal and economic changes, said it would be following up on the reports findings.

If there are such practices happening in Nunavut, where women believe their human rights are violated, then we call on the Department of Justice, Government of Nunavut, to do an investigation and provide (the council) with a report, said Clara Evalik, the councils vice-president.

The new report is a followup to one the watchdog released in 2017 that found significant shortcomings in the RCMPs personal-search policies, including inadequate training and insufficient tracking of strip-search data.

While the latest report says there have been a number of improvements in strip-search policies nationally  including more explicit requirements for supervisor oversight of such searches  a number of concerns remain.

Michelaine Lahaie, the commissions chairperson, cited a 2001 Supreme Court of Canada decision, R. v Golden, which concluded: Strip searches are inherently humiliating and degrading for detainees regardless of the manner in which they are carried out and for this reason they cannot be carried out simply as a matter of routine policy.

Among her ongoing concerns: The rationale and documentation for strip searches is often lacking.

The report found that the RCMP national operations manuals reference to removal of undergarments remains unclear and the way the force tracks and assesses compliance with personal-search policies is inadequate.

The RCMPs inability to evaluate and report on policy compliance has a chilling effect on public accountability, self-evaluation and independent review, Lahaie said.

When it comes to training, many members of the RCMP are still not sufficiently aware of personal-search policies, the report found, and no mandatory training exists beyond basic instruction to cadets at the RCMP academy.

RCMP members practices at the Iqaluit detachment were particularly troubling, the report went on to say.

The commission reviewed 162 prisoner reports and found that 158 included references to the removal of a prisoners bra or underwear. Yet only three per cent of files documented the search, the report said.

None of the 158 files indicated whether a supervisor had authorized the search.

Some prisoners who had been subjected to strip searches in Iqaluit were described as suicidal or high-risk.

Iqaluit RCMP members commented that some prisoners are extremely problematic and return to cells regularly, the report said.

As such, members developed a protocol for repeat detainees. For instance, with one such person, Iqaluit members informed the Commission that they have a procedure for dealing with her  they turn on the audio and video recording, strip her of her clothing, and put her in a restraint chair for a stipulated time.

In interviews, most members of the Iqaluit detachment, including the officer in charge, did not know the definition of strip search, the report said. According to the RCMP operations manual, it is defined as the removal or rearrangement of some or all of the clothing of a person so as to permit a visual inspection of a persons private areas, namely genitals, buttocks, breasts (in the case of a female), or undergarments.

Iqaluit members, however, told the commission they did not consider the act of stripping a prisoner of their clothing for safety or self-harm reason a strip search, and thus would not document such an event.

Moreover, members at the Iqaluit Detachment revealed that bras are removed as a matter of course and that supervisor approval is not sought in these cases, as the removal of bras is not considered a strip search, the report said.

The rationale for the bra removal, according to members, is to prevent prisoners from using the bra to hang themselves.

RCMP officials in Iqaluit did not respond to the Stars request for comment.

In a written response posted to the watchdogs website, Commissioner Brenda Lucki said she would direct her staff to amend the national operations manual to ensure greater clarity on personal-search policies and improvements in recording and tracking the use of strip searches. She also agreed to enhance training of cadets at the academy.

As for the concerns in Iqaluit, Lucki said enhanced training, using a trauma-informed approach, would be given to members for handling vulnerable people.

Revision of V Division policy with respect to personal searches, cellblock searches, strip searches, and internal searches has commenced, Lucki wrote. In addition, V Division will be providing training in mental health first-aid with an Inuit-specific context to all members new to the division.
Anyone can make tall promises and it is very easy to accept these promises if they guarantee even an iota of betterment for you, for your existence.

Even if these new assurances are accepted with a pinch of salt and discount the actual execution to 50%, even then the Bihari voter will be content, observes Asmita Bihari.

IMAGE: Bihar Chief Minister and Janta Dal-United President Nitish Kumar arrives to attend a meeting for the Bihar assembly election at the JD-U office in Patna, September 26, 2020. Photograph: PTI Photo

Approximately another 40 days of glory, sunshine, elevation, pampering, flattery and compliments for the people of Bihar.

Now that the dates for the assembly elections have been announced.

With the results to be declared on the 10th of November, expect a windfall of packages and promises to be announced.

This month-and-a-half will also feature many a leader flaunting their Bihar connect.

Case in point the Deputy Speaker of the Rajya Sabha, who in his letter to the President seemed less disturbed by the ruckus in the Rajya Sabha regarding the Farm Bill and more interested in flaunting his Bihari heritage.

There will also be an overdose of exploitation of iconic Bihar leaders of the past, like Jayaprakash Narayan, Karpoori Thakur and Ram Manohar Lohia.

This year might also see the biggest celebration of Chhath Puja, which will fall 10 days after the results are announced.

Which party or alliance has their prayers and wishes answered by Chhathi Maiya on the 10th of November, remains to be seen.

As of now, Biharis are happy with their time in the sun, basking and gathering all the attention that this limited period has to offer, which comes every five years.

Post the results, they can get back to their sedentary lives resigning their fate to the decisions of the government.

Will the next 5 years be filled with regret on the flattening of dreams or will the next five years be as is being promised in the months leading up to the elections after Dussera this year?

A report card regarding the implementation of projects and promises made in 2015 is most definitely a poor read and it reflects the apathy of the central government in the past five years.

Anyone can make tall promises and it is very easy to accept these promises if they guarantee even an iota of betterment for you, for your existence.

Promises are coming in thick and fast and the volley is going to get heavier.

These are being made to calm the Bihari of his anger on the unfulfilled assurances of the past.

To seduce the Bihari with fresh guarantees for the future.

Placing the heavy carrot of hope on a short stick, close enough to sniff and far enough from the hands.

Even if these new promises and assurances are accepted with a pinch of salt and discount the actual execution to 50%, even then the Bihari voter will be content.

Something is better than nothing, right.

The biggest problem of unemployement will surely be addressed in some measure by the LPG plants in Banka and Sugauli, also with the sewage treatment plants in Patna and the various projects under the rural and urban development funds.

But these are not enough.

Will all these projects and the crores being allocated to them actually make its way from the mouth to paper and ultimately fructify on the ground?

Will Bihar become Atmanirbhar, like the prime minister has envisaged in one of his recent speeches while launching yet another slew of packages for the state?

Words and promises mean nothing if not fulfilled.

It has happened to the people of Bihar in the past, not too long ago and it won't be really heartbreaking if it happens again.

Sometimes the leaders do not realise or keep track of the promises that they are making.

Sometimes they do not fully understand what they are promising.

But the silent man is the wisest.

Asmita Bihari is a non resident Bihari.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
Ken Rosenfeld | California Criminal Defense Attorney She has done tremendous work to advance mental health causes.

Implemented in 2008 following the pop stars series of mental breakdowns, Britney Spears's conservatorship granted her father Jamie Spears legal control over her business and financial decisions, her personal assets, and her estate. Earlier in August, Spears asked for her father to be removed as sole conservator of her estate. When exploring the various legal and mental health aspects of Spearss proposed change on Times Radio on August 20th, 2020, Matt Chorley requested the input of Rosenfeld, a California criminal defense and mental health criminal defense attorney.

Listen to the entire interview

Appearing on the air as a legal and mental health expert alongside a psychologist and a show business journalist, Rosenfeld provided the program with an explanation of legal conservatorship, also known as legal guardianship, including the entities involved and the powers a legal conservator might have. Rosenfeld went on to explain the legal aspects of making changes to legal conservatorship, particularly in light of Spearss mental health state. He also provided the largely British audience with an explanation of American HIPPA regulations regarding the privacy of mental health diagnoses. Rosenfeld went on to offer commentary on the law in light of society and mental health issues, and on the impact Spears has made in de-stigmatizing mental health issues.

She has done tremendous work to advance mental health causes, said Rosenfeld of Spearss willingness to bring her mental health issues into the spotlight.

Supporters of the #FreeBritney movement feel that Spears was coerced into, and is being manipulated by, the legal conservatorship. In the hearing on August 19, the judge ruled that the conservatorship would continue in its current formulation through February 1, 2021.

Times Radio, a digital radio station owned by News UK, is affiliated with The Times and The Sunday Times. The station launched in June of 2020.

About Ken Rosenfeld

Named 2020 Litigator of the Year by the American Institute of Trial Lawyers, California criminal defense and mental health criminal defense attorney Ken Rosenfeld has defended clients across a spectrum of high-profile cases, including white-collar crimes, sex offenses, first-degree murder, and DUI offenses. A seasoned criminal law commentator, Rosenfeld has been invited to make numerous television and radio appearances as a legal expert, including at the national level.

The Rosenfeld Law Firm has provided aggressive, efficacious defense of numerous criminal defense cases. Beyond mental health criminal defense, the firm also practices federal criminal defense and juvenile defense, as well as appellate law and prison law. The firm is located in both Sacramento and San Jose. For more information, please contact Ken Rosenfeld directly at (916) 447-2070, or visit http://www.therosenfeldlawfirm.com.

Press release writing by WebSiteText and Proofreading Services by The Proofreaders.
NEW DELHI: From Thursday (1 October 2020), several new rules and regulations that will have a major impact on the commons mans life have come into effect. According to reports, Indian citizens will now have to follow these new set of rules and regulations if they wish to buy a new LPG connection, transfer money to a foreign fund, or buy new health insurance. From October 1 onwards, new motor vehicle rules have come into effect, and rules related to Ujjwala Scheme, health insurance, credit and debit card have also changed.

Here are ten big rule changes that have come into effect from October 1



1 No requirement of physical documents related to driving licence, registration card

From October 1, people would be allowed to carry electronic versions of documents like driving licence, vehicle registration certificate etc. This means, there is no need to carry the physical copies of the same from October 1. The drivers can carry soft copies of these documents saved in DigiLocker or m-Parivahan mobile application.

The e-copies would be valid and no enforcement agency can deny accepting it as proof. Details of driving licences disqualified or revoked by the licensing authority shall be recorded chronologically in the portal and such record shall be reflected on a regular basis on the portal has been provided for, the government said and added, thus the record shall be maintained electronically and further the driver behaviour would be monitored. DigiLocker is a digital storage service operated by the government that enables citizens to store certain official documents on cloud.

2 Buying LPG connection will be costly

Under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), the process of buying a new LPG gas connection will get dearer from October 1. This means the LPG gas connection will not come free. The Union Cabinet had approved an extension till September end for availing free cooking gas cylinders under PMUY.

3 Sweet sellers will need to display 'best before date'

From October 1 onwards, the sweet shops will now have to declare the 'best before date' of non-packaged or loose sweets available in their shop. Mandated by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), all sweet shop owners will have to adhere to the protocol from 1 October.

4 Ban on blending of mustard oil with any other cooking oil

Food regulator FSSAI has also banned the blending of mustard oil with any other cooking oil with effect from October 1. In a letter to the commissioner of food safety of all states and Union Territories, FSSAI said the "blending of mustard oil with any other edible oil in India has been prohibited with effect from October 1, 2020."

4 Buying CTVs will be expensive

From October 1, open-cell panels will attract 5% import duty with the government saying that a duty exemption expiring at the end of this month will not be extended. As part of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' the government is keen to expand domestic production capacity for open cell panels so that imports can be curbed. The one-year exemption given to the item expires today, 30 September.

5 Use of handheld communications devices

The government on Saturday said maintenance of vehicular documents, including driving licences and e-challans, will be done through an information technology portal from October 1, 2020. It has been provided that the use of handheld communications devices while driving shall solely be used for route navigation in such a manner that it shall not disturb the concentration of the driver while driving.

Live TV

6 5% tax on foreign fund transfer

Any amount sent abroad to buy foreign tour packages, and every other foreign remittance made above 7 lakh, will attract a tax-collected-at source (TCS) beginning 1 October unless tax is already deducted at source (TDS) on that amount. While the tax on foreign tour packages will be 5% for any amount, for other foreign remittances the tax will kick in only for the amount spent above 7 lakh.

7 Health Insurance

Beginning October 1, a new set of rules will govern the Health insurance sector. The new rules apply to waiting period after getting health insurance, claim rejection by the companies, the inclusion of many more illnesses in the health cover. However, the consumer taking health insurance must also note that the premium paid on health insurance may also go up.

8 New debit & credit card rules

The RBI had directed all banks to not unnecessarily give international facilities to customers' cards unless the customer himself demands it. As per new guidelines, customers will get the option to register for preferences such as opt-in or opt-out services, spend limits and other services for online transactions, international transactions and contactless transactions. The debit and credit card services will only be enabled for transactions at ATMs (domestic) and Point of Sale terminals. Both debit and credit holders will now be allowed to set up a transaction limit.

9 TCS on remittances

TCS on Liberalised remittances scheme will be levied over and above the remittance amount of Rs 7 lakh by a customer in a financial year and will be effective from October 1. Besides, the corporate tax cut announced by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will get implemented from October 1.

10 Discounts for credit card users at petrol pumps

No discount will be given for credit card payments done to buy fuel at petrol pumps from October 1. The oil companies had introduced these discounts using credit/debit cards and e-wallets to promote digital payments. The good news is that discounts on debit cards and other modes of digital payments will continue for now.
Written by ACM





*Strasbourg/Angelo Marcopolo/- Despite a Spectacular multiplied Metamorphosis of EU Summit's Agenda (See Infra) on the "Hot" Issue of Turkey's Bullying against European Energy Resources at the Eastern Mediterranean, with which EU Heads of State/Government are going to Deal Tomorrow Evening in Brussels, they Should be Able to Discuss that "Thoroughly" and "in Depth", "Because it's a Really Important Issue", told "Eurofora" an EU Council's Senior Officer Today, (speaking under Condition of Anonymity, Because of the Sensitive nature of that Issue), while the "Bumpy" Ramifications of such a Delicate matter have Ping-Ponged Even around the ...Belarus' Issue Recently, and are Now having inevitable Interactions Also at the Latest, manifold Ankara's Military Interference in the Nagorno-Karabakh Bloody Conflict, between Armenia and Azerbaijan, at the Caucasus.

- "Eurofora" had Asked, about EU's "Extraordinary" Summit of October 1 and 2 in Brussels, whether the UnUsual Fact that it had, Initially, been Announced as Focused on EU's Energy Resources in South-Eastern Mediterranean, around EU Members Cyprus and Greece, Notoriously Bullied by Turkey's illegal "Drillings" at their EEZ, its WarShips, Provocations and Even Threats, But Later was Extended to several Other, Also, Foreign Policy Topical Issues, (from Belarus and the Navalny affar in Russia, up to ...China and, Nowadays, Nagorno-Karabakh at the Caucasus, and, Finaly, saw its 2nd Day being Dedicated entirely into Strengthening EU's "Resilience" at Economy, and Particularly its Common Market, Industry, and Digital Transformation, (Adding Even a Last-Minute Word for the Notoriously Time-Veracious Old Issue of ..."BREXIT", Promissed to be now ..."Brief" : sic !), while, Moreover, Suddenly Postponing its Initialy Scheduled Dates of September 24-25 until the Beginning of October, under Health Safety pretexts., Before, Even, Announcing that the Turkish Issue would be Debated at a "Working Diner", didn't Risk to Affect EU's Officialy Declared Intention to Really Hold a Serious "in Depth Discussion" on that matter.

- In Fact, "the Idea was, Originaly, to have an In Depth Debate on the Eastern Mediterranean, Already in the First Half of the Year, on June 2020. But it wasN't possible, because of the COVID" Virus", Replied to "Eurofora" the well-informed EU Council's Senior Officer.

- Indeed, "We (EUC) Believed that we Need a <<Physical>> (Not just Virtual, i.e. merely by Remote Video-Conference) Summit for This (kind of) Discussion", he revealed.

This Obviously Includes the Possibility to Hold various <<Bilateral>> Meetings, on the Sidelines, as, f.ex., that of EU Council President Michel with Cyprus' President Anastassides, which comes among the First, Already Before the Beginning of the Summit...

At least one of the main Reasons, probably is the Fact that Someone (UnNamed) took the Responsibility, at a Foreign Ministers' meeting, Earlier in Brussels (21/9/2020), to Block, Then, or Postpone any Sanctions on Turkey, Contrary to an Agreement reached Previously at Berlin by EU's FMs, to Advance "in Parallel", on eventual Sanctions versus Belarus and Turkey, withOut "Double Standards". Such an Attempt to Drop EU Agreements, Triggered a Reaction, by Cyprus' MFA, who Reminded that Berlin's Deal, (as Also Supported several EU Member Countries then, including Greece, Denmark, France, Austria, Slovakia, Ireland, Cyprus, Malta, etc), and asked to Transmit Belarus', as Also Turkey's Issues to the forthcoming EU Summit, (See: http://www.eurofora.net/newsflashes/news/greececyprusoneuturkeybelarus.html).

-=> So, "we said that we Want to have this at the Agenda of the European Council". In consequence, "this way, we have the ExtraOrdinary Council, (of, at First, September 24-25, and Afterwards, October 1-2), in order to put also the Question of East Med. and Turkey on the Agenda", the EUC Official continued.

- Now, "I Know that the Situation at the International scene is what it is,.., and, this way, we have ...(also some Other).. Topic(s). We Have to Discuss Belarus, Nagorno-Karabah", etc. (Significantly, he didN't Remind Also Navalny/Russia, China, etc, since they Obviously are, Comparatively, Less "Hot" or "Urgent" Issues...).

In Addition to the Complications that Turkey's issue provoked even to the Belarusian case (Comp. Supea), it's Largely in the Armenia - Azerbaijan Bloody Conflict that Ankara's Negative Interference Started to be Revealed in its Worst Version : 1) Nobody Else Incited so Loudly and Shamelessly the Azeris to Attack the Armenians (Not Even ...Pakistan ou Turkmenistan), withOut any remorse, not even steming from the Historic Armenian Genocide... 2) It's the Second Time in a Row this same Year 2020 that Turkey Backed the Azeris to Attack the Armenians, as Ankara had Already done on July, (by a "Coincidence", just a Few Days after the Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and his Family, Wife and 3 Children; had Suddenly been All Infected by the Virus, since the End of June ! See : http://www.eurofora.net/newsflashes/news/manyconservativeshitbyvirus.html). 3) Turkey notoriously Backs Azerbaijan in these Deadly Clashes, inter alia, with Killer Drones, WarPlanes and Helicopters, Tanks, Rockets, etc, and Other Lethal Weapons, reportedly providing even Military Training on the spot. 4) Nowadays, the Most Worrying Aggravation (Dangerous for All Europe) is that of Extremist Islamist Armed Gangs reportedly Send by Turkey to the Caucasus from Anatolia Plateau, Occypied Syria, and/or Libya, etc., as Paid Mercenaries, to Dop Azeris' Attacks against the Armenians ! Turkey had Already done so, Recently, in Invaded and Occupied Idlib, Afrin, N/E. Kurdish Syrian Regions, inside Civil War-ridden Libya, et.. But it's the 1st Time that Foreign Jihadist Armed Gangs Massively Intrude inside a Geographicaly, Politicaly and Culturally European Land, (and, particularly, at one among the 1st Countries in World History to be Christianized : Home of Armenian People, Also the 1st to face Genocide in the 20th Century, by Turks)... The Story was, Initialy, brokered out by a Investigative Independent Journalist at the Middle East, afterwards Documented and consideraby Enlarged by the London-Based "SOHR" Human Rights NGO, (specialized in Syria), Followed by "the Guardian", "Deuters" Press Agency, and Other Mainstream Medias, Before being reportedly Verified also by the Armenian Government, and Today Denounced by Russian Foreign Minister Serghei Lavrov, (etc)... 5) To that, were recently Added, also, Converging Press, Human Rights' NGOs and other Sources (including "SOHR", etc) about the Shocking Fact that, apparently, Turkey had Even ...Planified, and Earlier PREPARED, Many Days Before the Events of that Bloody "Clash" between Armenians and Azeri, to Send such Syrian or Other Jihadi Mercenaries to the Caucasus : F.ex., Some had Already been Pepared to Go there around 21 or 22 September, But, at the Last Minute, their Transfert was Postponed (NDLR : ...As the EU Summit itself !) for Nowadays...

6) Last, but not least, Photos and Official Denonciations by the Erevan Government Emerged Today, also about an Armenian "Sukhoi" AirPlane being Hit and Destroyed (with its Pilote Killed) by an "F16" WarPlane of Turkey itself.

--------------------

- "If this is not a really Concrete Answer", continued the EU Council's Official, in his Reply to the Above-mentioned "Eurofora" Question, "...I Know that (EU) Leaders" are interested... And "We'll See if Leaders Advance Further"... But, at any case, "We (at EU Council's Organisation in Brussels) Want to Give them the Possibility to take the Time to Discuss that (Turkey) Thoroughly", he stressed.

=> - So, that, "I doN't know if this might be going up to the Middle of the Night (Tomorrow, October 1st), But it Might be, Because it's a Really Important Issue !", he agreed, in conclusion.

----------------------

- Earlier, the EUC Senior Official had Confirmed that "EU is Concerned for the Stability of the Region" at the Eastern Mediterranean, and has "Full Solidarity to Cyprus and Greece", vis a vis Turkey's Bullying (Comp. Supra), as EU's General Interest for Unique European Energy Resources there, (at an Area Geologicaly Equivalnt to USA's Enrgy-Rich "Gulf of Mexico"), particularly Since the Northern Sea's deposits have, Notoriously, been Exhausted, goes withOut saying...

=> For that purpose, in Brussels, there is an Intention to "Use All Instruments at the Disposal of the EU", he also confirmed, (using a Formula Similar to that of the "Joint Declaration" at the Latest "MED-7" Summit at Corsica Island, in France, 10/9/2020 : See ..., etc).

+ Among them, a suggestion by EUC President Michel reportedly is, Also, to organize "an international Conference", inter alia, including in order to extend "Multilateral, and Not Only Bilateral, Deals", f.ex. "on Migration, Borders" (i.e. EEZ), etc, he added.

- When Others Asked What might be, Perhaps, "the Carrot" for Turkey, he thoughtfully pointed f.ex. towards an Eventual UpGrading of EU Turkey's "Customs Union", (i.e. one among Erdogan's recently cited Desiderata : See ..., etc).

- Among the Probable "Sanctions", other wellI-informed Diplomatic Sources, reportedly pointed at Either "More Persons and/or Entities (i.e. Compagnies, etc) from Turkey, to be registered in EU Sanctions' List", and/or some "Economic Measures", particularly "Ready to Use, so that Turkey Knows" what might happen, According to its Behavior, (etc).

---------------------------------------

+ 2nd Metamorphosis ?

-----------------------------------------

- Meanwhile, almost Parallel to EUC's AGENTA's above-mentioned "Metamorphosis", (Comp. Supra), it seems that it's Also anOther one, a kind of "2nd Metamorphosis", (even More "Spectacular" than the 1st, which closely Followed, concerning, this time, ...Turkey's APPARENT BEHAVIOR !

- Indeed, While, Until about 21-22 September 2020 (Included), Turkish Top Officials Multiplied Various Obviously Excessive Demands, Provocations, Insults and Threats, etc., (as, f.ex., Ankara's Defense Minister Akar, who had, Just, Brutaly Ordered Greece to "Shut Up, or Become a <<Mezes>>", (piece of Meat to be Eaten), and President Erdogan, who had just Asked the EU for "proposals which Fit Realities", and Concessions such as : Free Visa, Upgrade EU-Turkey Customs Union, Migration, Recognition of the illegal Military Invasion/Occupation in Cyprus, DisArmament of Greek Islands, etc, Or, Eitherwise, "Fight !" , (See : http://www.eurofora.net/newsflashes/news/turkeygastalksthornyeucredibilityrisk.html, etc),

Suddenly, Only Hours Ago, Erdogan reportedly send a Letter to the EU on the forthcoming Summit, where he Apparently Claimed to stand for "Dialogue", and Even "the International Law" (sic !)...

+ In Parallel, there were Reciproqual mentions about Resuming, Soon, "Exploratory Talks" with Greece.

---------------------------------

=> But, Did Ankara Really Change its Negative Stance, at the Last Minute ?

- In Fact, it doesN't seem so, at all, Many Converging Facts show... F.ex., among (many) others :



- Ankara did Not even Send its Letter to EU Members Greece and Cyprus, Turkish Media Boast.

- Turkey Even Claims that the State of Cyprus would have been ..."Dissolved" (sic) !

- Ankara Seeks to Impose a Recognition of its illegal Millitary Invasion and Occupation of the Northern Territories of Cyprus, (clearly Condemned by the UNO), by Asking for it to be given a full Place inside an "InterGovernemental" Organisation called Mediterranean Forum, (recently Created by Greece, Cyprus and Egypt, together with Israel, Lebanon, Palestine, Jordany and Italy, soon France, etc, to Help Develop South-Eastern Mediterranean Energy Sources, and Transport them to mainland Europe, according to the International Law of the Sea).



- Erdogan even Asks to practicaly Impose a VETO, (sic !),of the illegal Invasion/Occupation, Break Away Regime at the Territories of Cyprus still Controlled by Ankara's Foreign Army, (that the UNO has Condemned, and Nobody Recognizes), on ...Any Deal with Oil/Gas Compagnies around Cyprus, (by its Legitimate and Internationaly Recognized Central Government) ...

- He Accuses the EU for "Indifference", and to hold "UnJust", "Partial", and "UnConditionaly ... Maximalistic theses", Asking Europe to "Drop" them all.

- But Turkey's Letter does Not Even Mention Once the UNO's competent here "International Treaty on the Law of the Sea", (that Ankara stubornaly Refuses to Sign, Neither Ratify)...

- Instead, Ankara Demands that "the Delimitation" of Sea "Areas" is made in what it ll Vaguely calls "Equitable, Just and Fair way", "in accordance with ... the Protection of Our (Turkey's) Sovereign Rights, and Jurisdiction over Our (Turkey's) Continental Shelf".

- Erdogan explicitly Calls to practically Exploit EU Members Greece and Cyprus' Oil/Gas Resources, (according to the UN Law of the Sea), as a "Basis" for Pushing to "Form a Wider EU" (i.e. Enlarged until Iraq, Syria, Azerbaijan, Iran, etc), with Turkey inside !

(Etc.+...)

----------------------------

+ Moreover, in order to Further Mark their Violent "Beliquoso" Profile and Claims, Ankara's highest State Authorities, have reportedly Just Published a Shelf-Made Video with Gross Nationalist and Militarist Propaganda, DisFiguring History, to Praise a Naval "Battle" by Medieval former long-time ..."Pirate", Hayrettin Pasha Barbarossa, (Died on 1546 : Nothing to do with the Failed NAZI Military Invasion of Russia, which Notoriously Ended at their 1st Big Defeat on 1941, at Stalingrad, Nowadays Volgograd).

That Turkish "Barbarossa", reportedly "Hating" the Spanish and Portuguese Navigators (according to "Britannica" Enyclopedia), Attacked and Asservissed Algeria and Tunisia, throwing them Later Under the Former Turkish-Ottoman Empire's jug, as a "Base of Piracy Against the Italian Coast", while both himself and his successors "Ravaged the Mediterranean Coastal Towns and Villages" too, with "Piracy", particularly After a Battle at "Preveza" (Ancient and Nowadays Greece), which practicaly "Captured" the "Eastern Mediterranean (sic !) for the Turks", Back on 1538, so that the Sultan appointed him "Admiral in Chief of the Ottoman Empire", something that Nowadays' Ankara seeked to ..."Glorify" on 2020, (and at the Same Moment that Erdogan Attempted to Mislead EU's Summit in Brussels, by Hyporciticaly Claiming to speak about ..."Dialogue" and "Law" (sic ! - Comp. Supra)...

Unfortunately for that kind of Turkey, (But Fortunately for Europe), Soon Afterwards, on 1571, a United European Army Brillantly and Definitively Won a Landmark Victory against that Ottoman-Turkish Fleet, in a Grandiose Historic and much Greater Naval Battle at Neighbouring "Lepante" (also Ancient and Nowadays Greece), which Notoriously put an End to "Piracy" and other Turkish Aggressions in the Mediterraean Sea, (being Considered, in Fact, as "the Beginning of Modern European History", according to an Experienced former EU Affairs Minister of Italy : See also ..., etc)...

This 1st move by a United European Force, was Followed, Later-on, Also by a Long Series of Other such Victories on the Declining Former Medieval Ottoman-Turk Empire, F.ex., including 1683 at Wien, 1696 at Budapest, etc., until the New Greek Revolution from 1821, anOther big United PanEuropean (Together with Russia), Naval Victory at Navarino (1828), etc., up to the Collapse of the Former Medieval Ottoman-Turk Empire, and the Arrival of the New Greek Army at just ...40 km Distance from Ankara on 1921...

+Significantly, that Historic 1st United Europe's Naval Victory at Lepante, had been initialy Motivated by an Horrible Massacre of Venician and Greek Prisoners, at ...Cyprus' "Famagusta" Seaport, (Facing Syria, Lebanon and Israel SeaCoasts, nowadays), grossly Betraying the Agreements that they had concluded earlier...

--------------------------------------

+ Nowadays Too, until this Eve of a Crucial EU Summit in Brussels, mainly on Eastern Mediterranean EU Energy Resources and Turkey's illegal Bullying there, (Comp. Supra), as the above-mentioned EU Council's Senior Official (Comp. Supra) observed in fine,

Even if there might be "some Good things", as the Currently Expected Return of Turkey to the "Exloratory Talks" with Greece, that Ankara had Quited Since 2016, After about 10 Years withOut notable Results,

Nevertheless, "there are Also Bad things", such as, f.ex., that Recent New "NAFTEX" of 15 September by Turkey, applicable Until 12 October, (the Unique Point that EU Parliament clearly "Condemned" with a quasi-Unanimous MEPs' Vote, earlier these Days in Brussels (See : ..., etc), which Sends again 2 illegal "Driling" Ships, as usual Escorted by Turkish WarShips, inside EU Member Cyprus' EEZ, (i.e., there Where the Most, already Proven, European Energy Resources are Located, those around Greece Still Having to be Confirmed).

Significantly, 1 of those 2 illegal Turkish "Drilling" Ships is, Provocatively, Named ..."Barbaros" (sic !) by Ankara, referring to the Above-mentioned former Medieval ..."Pirate, Hayrettin Pasha Barbarossa" ! (Comp. Supra).

---------------------------

In other words, as Experienced Cyprus' President Nicos Anastassiades, has reportedly just Stressed, Today, shortly Before Leaving the Island for Tomorrow's EU Summit in Brussels,

>>> in Substance, "Only (EU) Acts, No Words, Could Make Turkey Move !"...

(../..)

("Draft-News")
Former U.S. intelligence contractor Edward Snowden speaks during an interview in Hong Kong on Jan. 1, 2013. (The Guardian via Getty Images)

Federal Judge Rules US Entitled to $5.2 Million in Edward Snowdens Book Earnings

A federal judge has ruled that the U.S. government was entitled to recover $5.2 million in royalties earned by former National Security Agency (NSA) contractor Edward Snowden from his book sales.

The court handed down the judgment against Snowden, who had fled the country after releasing a trove of U.S. classified information in 2013, in a lawsuit related to Snowdens violations of non-disclosure agreements he signed with the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and NSA, according to the Justice Department (DOJ).

Snowden published a memoir, Permanent Record, in September 2019 that detailed his childhood and his tenure at the CIA and NSA. Shortly after the publication, the Justice Department filed a lawsuit against Snowden alleging that the book breached nondisclosure agreements with the U.S. government.

The lawsuit also alleged that Snowden had also given public speeches on intelligence-related matters, which violated his non-disclosure agreements.

The U.S. government lawsuit sought to recover all proceeded from Snowdens book sales due to his failure to submit his publication for pre-publication review in violation of his alleged contractual and fiduciary obligations.

The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia ruled in favor of the federal government in December 2019, finding Snowden had breached his contractual and fiduciary obligations to the CIA and NSA.

Edward Snowden violated his legal obligations to the United States, and therefore, his unlawful financial gains must be relinquished to the government, Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey A. Rosen said in a statement. As this case demonstrates, the Department of Justice will not overlook the wrongful actions of those who seek to betray the trust reposed in them and to personally profit from their access to classified national security information.

The civil lawsuit is separate from the criminal charges brought against Snowden for his alleged disclosures of classified information.

Snowden fled to Russia and was given asylum in 2013 after his leaks exposed a vast domestic and international surveillance operation carried out by the NSA. U.S. authorities have since sought to have Snowden return to face criminal espionage charges.

His revelations about the NSA, Britains GCHQ, and other intelligence agencies sparked an international debate about spies powers to monitor personal communications, and about the balance between security and privacy. Critics say his disclosures harmed the ability of the United States and its allies to fight terrorism.

In August, President Donald Trump said at a press conference that he was going to start looking at a possible pardon for Snowden, who was charged under the Espionage Act in 2013 for the disclosure. The comments received opposition from Attorney General William Barr who told the Associated Press that he was vehemently opposed at the idea of pardoning the 37-year-old former NSA contractor.

He was a traitor and the information he provided our adversaries greatly hurt the safety of the American people, Barr told the news wire. He was peddling it around like a commercial merchant. We cant tolerate that.

Ivan Pentchoukov contributed to this report.
MOSCOW, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Shareholders of Sheremetyevo International Airport Joint Stock Company (JSC SIA) approved the company's annual report for 2019 and elected a new Board of Directors and Audit Committee, among other decisions, on September 30 at the annual General Meeting of Shareholders.

The company reported that 2019 was a milestone year in the planned infrastructure development and comprehensive modernization of Sheremetyevo Airport, one of the largest aviation hubs in Europe.

The airport has begun executing the second phase of the Long-Term Development Program. Capital investment at the end of the year reached 36.6 billion rubles, with Terminal C for 20 million passengers annually, a multi-level parking lot for 2,500 cars, and a new apron for aircraft parking constructed and commissioned.

A 49-year concession agreement with the state was executed in order to create, reconstruct, modernize and overhaul airfield facilities at the expense of extra-budgetary investments. JSC SIA will invest about 71.4 billion rubles ithin the framework of the agreement,.

An independent third runway was put into operation in September 2019 at state expense, making it possible to increase the airfield's capacity from 65 to 90 takeoff and landing operations per hour. RWY-3 will provide an opportunity for long-term development of Sheremetyevo-based air carriers and attraction of new airlines to the airport.

The airport has been a leader in Europe in terms of the quality of passenger service over the past several years, according to the ASQ (Airport Service Quality) global rating program of the International Airports Council. It has been the world leader in punctuality of flights, according to the international industry ratings of the British research company OAG (category Mega Airports) and the aviation-industry analytical organization Cirium (category Global Airports). In 2019, Terminal B of Sheremetyevo Airport was awarded the prestigious international "5 star" rating by Skytrax, the highest possible rating.

At the end of 2019, Sheremetyevo showed a record growth in key performance indicators while maintaining high punctuality in flight operations. The number of passengers served increased by 8.9% compared to 2018 and reached 49.933 million, and it hosted 386,370 takeoff and landing operations, an increase of 8.2%. As a result, Sheremetyevo strengthened its leadership in the Moscow air hub, servicing 48.6% of the total passenger traffic and providing 49.4% of the Moscow Air Transportation Regional Cluster's takeoff and landing operations.

The key factors for the growth of passenger traffic and freight traffic at Sheremetyevo in 2019 were: the increase in passengers and the expansion of the route networks of Aeroflot and other aviation partners, the progressive growth of the airport's transfer passenger traffic and the arrival of new air carriers (Brussels Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, Belavia, Turkish Airlines Cargo). In 2019, 19 new domestic and international destinations were opened, and the route network as a whole reached 230 destinations.

The airport handled more than 330,000 tonnes of cargo at the in 2019, an increase of 6.8%, and 49,500 tonnes of mail, an increase of 37.4% compared to 2018. The main cargo operator of Sheremetyevo Airport, Moscow Cargo LLC, handled more than 275,000 tonnes of cargo and mail, a 12% increase compared to 2018. The Moscow Cargo company strengthened its position as a leader among the cargo aviation complexes of Russia, handling 48.3% of the total cargo turnover at the Moscow Air Transportation Regional Cluster's airports and 23.4% of the total volume of air cargo transportation in the Russian Federation.

JSC SIA achieved significant growth in financial performance in 2019. The main indicators, achievements and financial results of SVO JSC and Sheremetyevo Group for 2019 are reflected in the Annual Report on the official website.

The JSC SIA auditor for the reporting period of 2019 is Ernst & Young LLC.

The General Meeting of the JSC SIA shareholders approved the annual accounting (financial) statements. Taking into account the current economic situation, the shareholders decided not to distribute profits and not to pay dividends on shares, but rather to leave funds at the disposal of JSC SIA to finance current activities and investment projects.

At the meeting, the following people were elected to the Board of Directors of SVO JSC:

A.A. Ponomarenko - Chairman of the Board of Directors of LLC Sheremetyevo Holding;

A.I. Skorobogatko - Member of the Board of Directors of LLC Sheremetyevo Holding;

M.M. Vasilenko  Director General of SVO JSC;

R.N. Zinovyev - President of Sheremetyevo Holding LLC;

A.S. Smagin - First Vice President - Investment Director of LLC Sheremetyevo Holding;

L.R. Nisenboim  professional special representative from the Russian Federation ;

; M.V. Babich - First Deputy Minister of Economic Development of the Russian Federation ;

; A.V. Neradko - First Deputy Minister of Transport of the Russian Federation - Head of the Federal Agency of Air Transport;

- Head of the Federal Agency of Air Transport; V.V. Yakovenko - Head of the Federal Property Management Agency.

The shareholders elected the same members to the Internal Audit Commission of JSCSIA:

Yu.A. Levitin - Vice President for Finance of Sheremetyevo Holding LLC;

G.V. Utkin- Head of the Department for Planning and Budgeting of LLC Sheremetyevo Holding;

M.V. Sorokin - Head of the Federal Property Management Agency

Ernst & Young LLC was approved as the auditor of JSC SIA for 2020.

SOURCE Sheremetyevo International Airport
With Beijing reiterating its claim on 1,597 kilometres of Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh on the basis of November 1959 maximalist cartographical claim, national security planners believe that Chinese Army may use this claim to put pressure on the six other areas of differences in the western sector that have not been impacted in the ongoing standoff between the two countries.

The Indian Army has been sensitised to the assessment and is on alert to pre-empt any move by Chinas Peoples Liberation Army (PLA), people familiar with the matter said.

The 1959 line (defined as Green Line on military maps) was sent by Prime Minister Zhou En-Lai to his Indian counterpart Jawaharlal Nehru on November 7, 1959, appended to Zhous letter addressed to heads of African-Asian countries on November 15, 1962.

During the inconclusive exercise of clarification and confirmation of the western sector by expert level group, it was found that India and China had 12 areas of differences with significant areas involved. The western sector maps were to be exchanged on June 17, 2002 but the Chinese withdrew at the last moment.

HT Editorial: India must keep its guard up on LAC after Chinas 1959 claim

According to China watchers, with six out of 12 areas of differences already in the contest, the PLA may launch an aggression on the remaining six points including Samar Lungpa, Demchok and Chumar to press home its claim which was rejected by Nehru himself. Hence, Indian military commanders have asked troops to be ready to repel any PLA move before heavy snow takes over the theatre of contest in East Ladakh. The polar winds and snow will not only wreak havoc on men but also their equipment. Artillery guns and tank barrels freeze in such cold conditions. From November 15 to May, the top priority of the two armies will be to survive the cold at the heights.

While both India and China are engaged at military and diplomatic level to disengage, the PLA commanders of Western Theatre Command only listen to their commander-in-chief Xi Jinping, not the foreign ministry in Beijing as many generals outrank the foreign minister in the all-powerful Central Military Commission (CMC).

The situation on the ground in the Ladakh LAC continues to be tense with the PLA realising that the Indian Army means business and has the capacity and capability to repel any aggression, an official said. The PLA troopers have stopped playing Punjabi songs on north of Pangong Tso and psychological warfare messages in the south with the Indian troopers making it clear that any transgression now will invite severe retaliation.

The Indian diplomats are unfazed by the 1959 line claim and question their predecessors who thought more about not crossing the Chinese red lines on the LAC rather than defending the Indian LAC claim.

The Ladakh stand-off is an outcome of a 30-year differential between India and China in the infrastructure race. China became Shanghai and India remained Mumbai. It is not good English but strong infrastructure and military that will force China to come to table, said a serving diplomat.

The Chinese 1959 claim is as absurd as India claiming part of Tibet on the basis of Dogra ruler of Jammu, Raja Gulab Singhs general Zorawar Singh Kahlurias 1841 Tibet campaign to occupy parts of Ngari prefecture of Tibet, he said.

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ZURICH, SWITZERLAND / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / ????Thunderbird Resorts, Inc. ("Thunderbird") (Euronext: TBIRD) is pleased to announce that its 2020 Half-year and Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements have been filed with the Euronext ("Euronext Amsterdam") and the Netherlands Authority for Financial Markets ("AFM"). As a Designated Foreign Issuer with respect to Canadian securities regulations, the Half-year Report is intended to comply with the rules and regulations set forth by the AFM and the Euronext Amsterdam.

Copies of 2020 Half-year and Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements Report in the English language will be available at no cost at the Group's website at www.thunderbirdresorts.com. Copies in the English language are available at no cost at the Group's operational office in Panama and at the offices of our local paying agent ING Commercial Banking, Paying Agency Services, Location Code TRC 01.013, Foppingadreef 7, 1102 BD Amsterdam, the Netherlands (tel: +31 20 563 6619, fax: +31 20 563 6959, email: iss.pas@ing.nl). Copies are also available on SEDAR at www.SEDAR.com.

Below are certain material excerpts from the full 2020 Semi-Annual Report, the entirety of which can be found on our website at www.thunderbirdresorts.com.

Dear Shareholders and Investors:

The below summarizes the Group's performance1 through June 30, 2020. We have now experienced two full quarters under the cloud and uncertainty of Covid-19. The below highlights our financial results through the period and highlights the adjustments we have made to the evolving market conditions.

A. EBITDA2: Peru property EBITDA decreased by $96 thousand for the six months ending June 30, 2020 as compared to the same period in 2019. During the same period, Nicaragua property EBITDA fell by $584 thousand. Corporate expense decreased by $161 thousand. After netting out Corporate expense and expenses from our proportional ownership in a Costa Rican real estate holding company, Adjusted EBITDA decreased by $519 thousand as compared to through half-year 2019.

B. Profit / (Loss): Based on Continuing Operations, our Loss improved by $273 thousand for the period as compared to the same period in 2019. The improvement was primarily due to large foreign exchange losses through half-year 2019 as compared to a small foreign exchange gain through half-year 2020.?

C. Net Debt3: Net debt increased by $54 thousand in total as compared to year-end December 31, 2019.

During this period, the Group has innovated its offering across markets in order to optimize revenues under the lowest possible cost structures. It has also continued to bear the expenses required of being a public-traded company. Thunderbird and its properties remain going concerns and will continue to pursue decisions that will support the best interest of shareholders according to the shareholder mandate set forth in the September 21, 2016 Special Resolutions.

1. Unless otherwise stated, all figures reported herein are in USD and report the results of those businesses that were continuing as of June 30, 2020 as compared to those same businesses through the six months ended June 30, 2019.

2. "EBITDA" is not an accounting term under IFRS, and refers to earnings before net interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization, equity in earnings of affiliates, minority interests, development costs, other gains and losses, and discontinued operations. "Property EBITDA" is equal to EBITDA at the country level(s). "Adjusted EBITDA" is equal to property EBITDA less "Corporate expenses", which are the expenses of operating the parent company and its non-operating subsidiaries and affiliates.

3. Net debt equals total borrowings and finance lease obligations less cash, cash equivalents and other liquid assets

GROUP OVERVIEW: The Group's consolidated profit/ (loss) summary for the six months ended June 30, 2020, as compared with the same period of 2019 is contained in the Group's 2020 Half-year Report located at www.thunderbirdresorts.com. In summary, Group revenue decreased by $1.6 million or -21.1%, while adjusted EBITDA decreased by $519 thousand or -38.2%.

RISK MANAGEMENT: For more detail on Risk Factors, see Chapter 5 of the Group's 2020 Half-year Report.

MANAGEMENT STATEMENT ON "GOING CONCERN": This statement is made taking into account the global health crisis and economic fallout caused by the pandemic Covid-19. There is instability in our markets and globally that could impact on Group activities in ways that are currently unpredictable. To account for the unpredictable conditions, in forecasting future cash flows in our assessment of Going Concern, Management has made certain extraordinary assumptions. Specifically, we have:

1. Forecasted a materially negative impact on revenue for the years 2020 and 2021, with revenues returning to 2019 levels only as of 2022.

2. Forecasted expenses to remain approximately at the levels they are as on date of publication of this 2019 Annual Report, meaning we are assuming (for Going Concern assessment only) that the Group has no more flexibility to drive down expenses further.

3. Assumed that: a) A portion of our secured debt will be restructured as an interest-only loan through 2021; and b) Our remaining unsecured debt will be deferred and repaid against liquidity events.

4. Assumed no development nor material construction, but do assume some repurposing of existing real estate to accommodate for changes in demand.

5. Forecasted no extraordinary one-time events that may impact positively or negatively on the Group's cash flows, though such events are possible particularly given the environment.

6. Assumed a stable regulatory environment in all countries with existing operations, and have forecasted receiving no governmental support apart from what has already been received as described in Other Group Events on pages 10 and 11 of the Group's 2020 Half-year Report.

Management has reviewed their plan with the Directors and has collectively formed a judgment that the Group has adequate resources to continue as a going concern for the foreseeable future, which Management and the Directors have defined as being at least the next 12 months from the filing of this 2020 Half-year Report. In arriving at this judgment, Management has prepared the cash flow projections of the Group.

Directors have reviewed this information provided by Management and have considered the information in relation to the financing uncertainties in the current economic climate, the Group's existing commitments and the financial resources available to the Group. Specifically, Directors have considered: (i) there are probably no sources of new financing available to the Group; (ii) the Group has limited trading exposures to our local suppliers and retail customers; (iii) other risks to which the Group is exposed, the most significant of which is considered to be regulatory risk; (iv) sources of Group income, including management fees charged to and income distributed from its various operations; (v) cash generation and debt amortization levels; (vi) fundamental trends of the Group's businesses; (vii) ability to re-amortize and unsecured lenders; and (vii) level of interest of third parties in the acquisition of certain operating assets, and status of genuine progress and probability of closing within the Going Concern period. The Directors have also considered certain critical factors that might affect continuing operations, as follows:

 Special Resolution: On September 21, 2016, the Group's shareholders approved a special resolution that, among other items, authorized the Board of Directors of the Corporate to sell "any or all remaining assets of the Corporation in such amounts and at such times as determined by the Board of Directors." This resolution facilitates the sale of any one or any combination of assets required to support maintaining of a going concern by the Group.

 Corporate Expense and Cash Flow: Corporate expense has decreased materially in recent years, but still must accommodate for compliance as a public company.

 Liquidity and Working Capital: As of the date of publication of this 2020 Half-year Report, the Group forecasts operating with low levels of reserves and working capital. Selling assets will be critical to creating a healthy level of working capital reserves for periods beyond the Going Concern period, which ability to liquidate assets is currently unknown.

Considering the above, Management and Directors are satisfied that the consolidated Group has adequate resources to continue as a going concern for at least the 12 months following the filing date of this report. For these reasons, Management and Directors continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the consolidated financial statements.

THUNDERBIRD RESORTS, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION (Expressed in thousands of United States dollars) for the half-year ended June 30, 2020, were approved by the Board of Directors on September 30, 2020, and are contained in the Half-year Report for 2020 posted at www.thunderbirdresorts.com. The consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

SUBSEQUENT EVENTS: During the half-year ended June 30, 2020, the Group engaged in the following listed material events:

1. Company's Annual General Meeting of Shareholders

The Group reports the following results of the Company's Annual General Meeting of Shareholders held in La Mesa, California on September 4, 2020:

On the matter of election of the board of directors, the shareholders voted 99.9% in favor of electing Salomon Guggenheim, George Gruenberg, and Stephan Fitch to serve on the board for the ensuing year.

Baker Tilly was appointed as auditors for the ensuing year and the Board of Directors was authorized to affix their remuneration

The shareholders received and considered the financial statements together with the auditor's report thereon for the financial year ended December 31, 2019

Following the meeting of shareholders the Board of Directors appointed the following persons as officers for the ensuing year:

Salomon Guggenheim, President and Chief Executive Officer

Albert W. Atallah, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary

Peter LeSar, Chief Financial Officer

Based on the recommendations made by the Nominating Committee, the Board approved the following committee members:

Audit Committee Stephan Fitch (Chairman)

George Gruenberg

Advisory member: Peter Lesar

Compensation Committee George Gruenberg (Chairman)

Stephan Fitch

Salomon Guggenheim

Nominating and Governance Committee Stephan Fitch (Chairman)

George Gruenberg

Salomon Guggenheim

Investment Committee Stephan Fitch (Chairman)

Advisory members: Salomon Guggenheim, Peter LeSar and Albert Atallah

1. New Financing: On August 24, 2020, the Group entered into a new loan agreement in Peru for the amount of Soles 600 thousand (US$ 172 thousand) under country's Reactiva Peru Program. The loan is to be used for Peru operations working capital. The loan bears interest at 1.00%, matures in 3 years and has a 12-month grace period.

2. Refinancing of existing secured loan: On July 12, 2020, the Group refinanced an existing $4.6 million loan in Peru that is secured by our 66 all-suite hotel, approximately 5,400 m2 of leasable offices and 158 of underground parking spaces. The loan bears interest of 6.5% annually, has 13-month interest only period, after which principal and interest payments are due monthly in 95 equal installments and a 25% balloon in month 96. The purpose of the loan refinancing is to increase the amount of available funds for working capital in the Group's Peru operation.

Note 22 in the Group's financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2019, provides a discussion of all of the Group's commitments. There are no material changes in that disclosure such that the contents of Note 22 are incorporated herein by reference as though fully set forth at length.

ABOUT THE COMPANY: We are an international provider of branded casino and hospitality services, focused on markets in Latin America. Our mission is to "create extraordinary experiences for our guests." Additional information about the Group is available at www.thunderbirdresorts.com. Contact: Peter Lesar, Chief Financial Officer  Email: plesar@thunderbirdresorts.com.

SOURCE: Thunderbird Resorts Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/608668/Thunderbird-Resorts-2020-Half-YearSemi-Annual-Report-Filed
President Moon Jae-in / Yonhap



President Moon Jae-in is likely to meet the top diplomats of China and the United States when they visit Seoul in October, as he strives to prevent North Korea's fatal shooting against a South Korean government official from escalating tensions and undermining efforts to reactivate the Korea peace process.



Moon is seeking ways to improve inter-Korean ties with a view of declaring a formal end to the Korean War and helping advance denuclearization talks.



Seoul and Beijing are in "continued consultations" on the issue of State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi's possible trip here, a diplomatic source said. Wang is reportedly planning to travel to Tokyo this month as well.



It is "natural" for Wang to visit Seoul on his way to or back from Tokyo, a South Korean official said.



Moon will likely meet him at Cheong Wa Dae if he makes his first visit here in 10 months.



Issues to be discussed include President Xi Jinping's plan for a South Korea trip, which has been postponed due to the global novel coronavirus pandemic, and South Korea's push for hosting an annual trilateral summit, also involving Japan, in November or December.



If arranged, the meeting will be attended by Moon, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga.



U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will also visit South Korea in early October, his first in two years. Pompeo is scheduled to attend the Quad security dialogue with his Australian, Indian and Japanese counterparts in Tokyo, according to the State Department.



He will also visit Seoul on Oct. 7-8 for meetings with senior officials, it said in a press statement.



Senior U.S. officials often have their trips to Seoul and Tokyo timed together.



Moon met Wang and Pompeo at his office during their previous visits here.



The Korean Peninsula security situations are at a crucial juncture again following the gunshot killing by the North's troops of the South Korean fisheries inspector at sea in late September.



Moon called the incident "shocking, tragic, regrettable and unfortunate," and expressed hope for the two Koreas to resume dialogue and cooperation in order to find relevant facts and stop a similar case from recurring.



Diplomatic observers do not rule out the possibility of an October surprise led by Pyongyang and Washington.



In 2018, Pompeo flew to Seoul shortly after meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in Pyongyang.



In his recent United Nations speech, Moon reiterated his call for the end-of-war declaration, saying it will open the door to completing denuclearization and a permanent peace regime on the peninsula. (Yonhap)


Planning for a record number of mail ballots amid concerns about whether the U.S. Postal Service can handle the load, Broward Elections Supervisor Peter Antonacci has come up with a way to streamline the process of getting Nov. 3 ballots to the elections office.

Under an agreement his office struck with the USPS, mail ballots that once had to pass through a massive distribution center in Opa-locka, in northwest Miami-Dade County, will now be picked up directly from local post offices by Broward elections workers starting the Saturday before Election Day.

And even before then, the deal with the USPS allows Broward elections workers to pick up mail ballots at a post office in Oakland Park, where ballots are being consolidated. On Tuesday, elections workers made their first pickup from the Oakland Park location, collecting about 14,000 ballots, according to Broward elections spokesman Steve Vancore.

Eliminating the stop at the Opa-locka facility means elections workers will have more time to notify voters if there is a problem  such as forgetting to sign the back of the ballot envelope  and fix the issue so the vote can be counted.

It also means more ballots may get to elections officials on time. In the August primary, more than 2,500 mail ballots in Broward County were rejected because they were received past the 7 p.m. Election Day deadline. In that election, Broward election workers went to the Opa-locka facility once the day before the election and twice on Election Day to retrieve mail ballots.

Under Florida law, elections offices must receive mail ballots by 7 p.m. on Election Day, regardless of when they were postmarked or arrived at a post office. (Exceptions are made for ballots sent from overseas.) Broward began shipping out more than 450,000 domestic mail ballots Sept. 24  an enormous spike from the 291,000 requested in the county in the 2016 general election. Miami-Dade County will begin sending its domestic mail ballots Thursday, the last day of the window to do so.

Story continues

It ensures that more ballots will get counted that otherwise might not have been, Vancore said of the Broward plan. The USPS, he added, was extremely accommodating, extremely willing to help us.

Browards effort to speed up the process comes not only in response to historic vote-by-mail numbers due to COVID-19, but also as officials try to avoid the vote-counting nightmares that have in the past struck South Florida.

In November 2018, the Opa-locka distribution center was the site of protests over concerns about uncounted ballots. And Broward Countys former elections supervisor, Brenda Snipes, was the target of outrage and false claims of fraud after over 2,000 ballots went missing, among other problems.

The Opa-locka distribution center is where Browards mail ballots are typically counted to determine how much the county owes the USPS in postage. Mail ballots dont need to be postmarked, so the county covers the costs.

For the November election, Vancore said Broward initially offered to cover all of the costs up front  in other words, to pay the total cost of postage if every single voter who requested a mail ballot returned it. That ultimately wasnt necessary, according to Vancore, because the USPS offered to count the ballots at its post offices instead of at the Opa-locka facility.

USPS felt that generous offer was not necessary and they worked on a way to accommodate our requests without doing that, Vancore said.

A USPS spokeswoman, Debra Fetterly, declined to discuss details of the arrangement.

The U.S. Postal Services number one priority between now and the November election is the secure, on time delivery of the nations election mail, Fetterly said in a statement. We are working closely with local election officials in Broward County and across the country to meet that goal.

Democratic U.S. Reps. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, left, and Debbie Wasserman Schultz speak during a press conference near the United States Postal Service mail distribution facility in Opa-locka, Florida on Tuesday, August 18, 2020. Democrats spoke about their plans to protect the USPS and how they will work to ensure access to the ballot during this election season.

A Miami-Dade elections spokeswoman said elections officials make daily trips to a post office near Miami International Airport to pick up the countys mail ballots. On Election Day they make three trips, the last at 7 p.m.

The Opa-locka facility processes mail for some parts of Miami-Dade County, and ballots routed through Opa-locka are sent to the post office near the airport to be retrieved.

A history of problems

But back in 2018, on the Saturday after Election Day, Miami-Dades elections department received 266 stray ballots from the Opa-locka facility after photos posted on social media from inside the building showed dozens of mail-in ballots that hadnt been delivered.

The photos sparked an outcry about uncounted votes. The postal service and the Miami-Dade elections department both said at the time that they had no indication any ballots had been mishandled, and that late-arriving ballots are typical after an election.

A group of activists protested in front of the Miami-Dade Elections Department on Saturday, November 10, 2018, demanding that all ballots be counted, included some found at an Opa-locka mail facility.

Broward Countys elections department also mismanaged the 2018 election and recount process. A county auditor said earlier this year that the process was so rife with problems that he couldnt verify the accuracy of reported vote totals. Snipes, the elections supervisor at the time, was suspended and then retired. She was replaced by Antonacci, who was appointed by then-Gov. Rick Scott in December 2018.

A draft audit report said half the countys polling places reported more votes than voters, and that mail ballots werent properly tracked, monitored or processed on time. Other issues noted in the audit included the poor design of the ballot and the misplacement of more than 2,000 ballots during the recount.
WATERLOO REGION  Flu shots arrived in Waterloo Region this week, the first shipment earmarked for high-risk residents.

Public health got a delivery of the vaccine from the Ministry of Health on Thursday, and those doses will go to health-care providers and long-term care homes to immunize people most vulnerable to influenza complications.

Thats always the goal of the first doses, said Kristy Wright, manager of infectious disease.

The province has not confirmed a date for the start of the universal influenza immunization program for the general public, but Wright expects that announcement soon. Typically flu shots become widely available later in October.

The vaccine will be available ahead of that launch for high-risk groups: children under five, seniors 65 years or older, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, asthma and heart disease.

We will be working over the next week to get those doses out, Wright said.

Public health plans to offer a limited number of appointments for families with children under five who have trouble getting vaccinated by a health-care provider.

For everyone else, flu shots will be available at doctors offices, walk-in clinics and pharmacies, which receive doses directly from the province. For the first time, pharmacies will offer the high-dose vaccine for seniors.

This year more than 150 pharmacies across the region will be offering flu shots.

Were happy each season to see more pharmacies come on board, Wright said.

Shoppers Drug Mart associate owner and pharmacist Navneet Randhawa says theres much more interest in the flu shot this year. People are calling or asking at the Waterloo Town Square store to find out when it will be available.

There is a lot of anxiety, Randhawa said. People seem to be very worried about it.

Flu shots will be arriving at Shoppers Drug Mart and Loblaw pharmacies next week.

People who are keen to get vaccinated as early as possible can register at shoppersdrugmart.ca/flu to get a notice when it becomes available at their local pharmacy. Thats a service offered in past years, but Randhawa said this year more people want the early notification.

She encourages everyone get a flu shot to avoid excessive illness from the flu season overlapping with the second wave of COVID-19.

That would be a very terrible situation for our hospitals to handle, Randhawa said. At least we have one vaccine to save us.

She said pharmacists are preparing for a surge in demand for the flu shot, including ensuring enough personal protective equipment to wear when administering the vaccine and also to handle lineups.

Wright said public health officials dont know what to expect for this flu season.

Australia usually offers an insight into what Canada can expect. Their flu season was slower, but that could be due to COVID-19 precautions, higher immunization rates or less of the virus circulating.

Winter not only brings the flu, but also enteric viruses. Wright said its essential that people tighten their precautions to prevent the spread of all bugs, including COVID-19.

And she urges everyone to roll up their sleeve and get a flu shot.

Flu immunization will be extremely important this season.

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When Seth MacLean was nine years old, his mother took him to see a concert in Toronto.

Her son was consumed with a love of hip hop, so the show  a performance by Puff Daddy and the Family  was a big deal. He scored an autographed magazine, and gleefully showed his brother Lamar when they got home.

But the jealousy of five-year-old Lamar was fleeting, as Seth revealed a surprise. He got a second magazine signed for his little brother.

That moment was more than two decades ago, but Lamar has been thinking about it lately, as his family grapples with the news that Seth  who had been living with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, and struggling with addiction in a Toronto shelter  died on July 12 of a fentanyl overdose.

By the time they found out, he had already been buried  on Aug. 26 in Pickering.

His family, who searched for him fruitlessly through July and August, finally learned of his fate after turning to Toronto Polices 51 Division for answers on Sept. 10  what would have been his 32nd birthday.

As the MacLeans demand answers about what led up to Seths burial and why they werent notified, their grief has punctuated the Toronto homeless communitys deadliest summer since at least 2007. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the opioid crisis, experts say  with interruptions in drug supply leading to increasingly toxic substances on the street.

While the city has made efforts to safeguard the shelter system from infection spread, many residents have been placed in facilities like shelter hotels  which advocates and front-line workers warn can lead to residents using drugs alone, and overdosing with no one to intervene. In July, as Toronto marked a historic high in suspected overdose deaths with 27 fatalities, nine took place among the citys homeless population, shelter system director Gord Tanner says.

Its the most weve seen, well, ever, Tanner said. We suspected there were 13 across the whole year in 2019. To see nine in the month of July is staggering and devastating.

Between January and August this year, 16 of the 48 deaths recorded among shelter residents or recent shelter residents in Toronto are believed by the city to have been overdoses.

Whats needed is a comprehensive strategy here that includes a continuum of supports, including housing and harm-reduction housing for people who use drugs, safe supply and also a range of treatment opportunities for people who would want to access those opportunities, Tanner said. Unfortunately, those things dont exist.

As Seth struggled in recent years, Lamar could still see glimmers of the kid his brother used to be  in his love for music, in his generosity towards other people.

But he didnt know how severe things had gotten with his drug use. He didnt know that Seth was using fentanyl, a deadly opioid, at all. In the past two, three years, his addiction took over more, Lamar said.

There was only so much their family could do to intervene. Seth didnt want to take his medication for his mental illnesses, and couldnt live at home that way. They tried to bring him to treatment centres, Lamar said, but the centres let him walk away.

Its honestly one of the toughest things to go through, to just see your brother being what I would say is normal, and then slowly start changing  how can you help someone who doesnt want help?

It was very hard for him to comprehend that what he was doing was causing harm, because he thought it was helping him, said Seths mother Nerissa. He was terrified of winding up in the hospital, and being put back on the medications that left him feeling catatonic, she said.

The citys records show that Seth lived, on and off, at the downtown Seaton House shelter starting in 2014. Staff there say it was difficult for him to engage with them sometimes, as he wrestled with his mental health and addictions.

But they saw his humour burst through, and the appreciation he showed when anyone went the extra mile to help. He still loved music, and would compose raps to sing in the shelter from time to time.

His mental health and addiction never affected his heart, Lamar said.

Officials, scientists and advocates have linked the spike in overdoses this summer to the COVID-19 pandemic, with changes like altered access to health services, disrupted international street drug supply chains, and the new need for isolation identified as contributing factors.

Dr. Jurgen Rehm, a senior scientist at Torontos Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, said the especially toxic supply of drugs on the streets during COVID-19 has happened because there is less travel taking place, leading to less supply of street drugs moving internationally and nationally.

That meant many users had to spend more to obtain drugs through their usual channels, Rehm said. That led to the situation where a lot of drug users had to buy from sources they didnt know, had to use drugs they werent so familiar with.

Street-level dealers were trying to stretch their product by mixing substances. People would, knowingly or unknowingly, get fentanyl-laced drugs that they could avoid a year ago, said Rehm.

He called for an increase in safer supply and harm reduction programs, to combat the spike in fatalities. Increases in overdose deaths are not God-given, Rehm said. Theyre part of a specific situation, the pandemic  which none of us is responsible for  but we are responsible to cope with the effects, and to do our best in order to minimize those effects.

Front-line Toronto shelter worker Tommy Taylor pointed out that some measures intended to curb COVID-19 spread have also created riskier conditions for individuals with addictions. The shelter hotels the city was using were one example, he said. They were a great setup in the sense that residents had their own living and washroom spaces to avoid infection spread.

But some, he said, had implemented rules that he believes may contribute to more residents using drugs where no one can intervene. Having things like no visitors allowed, sporadic room checks or rules around using so people try to hide it? You have to be realistic about who the clientele is, and certainly have a safety-first approach and try to keep people alive.

(Tanner said there were a few abstinence-based programs in the shelter system, but the citys expectation otherwise was that facilities used a harm-reduction approach and philosophy.)

Taylor and other outreach workers are urging officials to embed more harm-reduction supports  whether supervised injection facilities, nurses, safer supply programs or rules that allowed individuals to employ a sort of buddy system if they were using drugs  into shelters across the city, to avoid the number of overdose deaths climbing even higher.

The MacLeans, too, are calling for safer conditions for individuals using drugs in the shelter system.

If youre going to have people coming in with drugs, then you need to have a place to safely use the drugs  not go inside their room and put a needle in their arm, and die on your watch, Nerissa said.

Someone with a mental illness and a drug addiction, they dont know what is too much, Lamar added. The number of overdoses this summer was devastating, he said. All levels of government need to do something.

The system failed Seth, Nerissa believes. He went from a kid who pulled her towards a homeless man and asked her to give him money, to a man who cycled through jail for petty crimes, his mental illnesses so severe that he started eating a bar of soap during a visit.

Seth had a lot of people who loved him, she said. During a recent memorial, she and her family released 32 white balloons into the sky, to mark each year of her sons short life.

Each death this summer has left scars for those who knew them. Tim Bark, who was homeless until securing his own apartment in January, said three of his friends from his shelter days have died of overdoses since the start of this year. He struggled with heroin use himself before getting clean, and stressed the change that permanent housing can make.

He urged officials to do more to address the opioid crisis in the near term  whether that means more supports and staff trained in harm reduction within the shelter hotels, or speeding up access to rehab beds and creating more for those looking to get sober.

You just become numb to it, he said of the overdose deaths. Im hoping there will be a day soon in the future where we can all have a memorial, and take a breath and give them their proper due, you know?
Former Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt said today that regular swab testing for NHS staff should be in place before the winter

Britain is in a 'totally different position' to where it was in the spring and local lockdowns may have helped avoid another disaster, according to Jeremy Hunt.

The former Health Secretary said today that mass testing has 'definitely made a difference' to the effects of this second surge in cases.

Mr Hunt, who is now chair of Parliament's health committee, reiterated his call to have mass regular testing for NHS staff to keep on top of the outbreak.

He has repeatedly spoken out in favour of the policy and has been scathing of the Government's struggles to get large-scale testing up and running.

His comments come as positive coronavirus tests in the UK are continuing to rise to levels higher even than those seen during the spring outbreak's darkest days.

But the cases being announced now  thought to be a large proportion of the true number of infections  are still only a blip in the country's timeline after experts predict more than 100,000 people per day were catching it at the epidemic's peak but only tiny numbers were getting tested.

Speaking on BBC Radio 4 this morning Mr Hunt said: 'I think it's important to say we're in a totally different position.

'An interesting thing to look at is that, in May, we weren't doing any testing in the community and we had the highest death rate in Europe.

'In September, we're doing the most tests in Europe and we're in the bottom half of European countries for coronavirus deaths. So that's definitely made a difference.

'But what we also know now, which we didn't know then, is that for every one direct Covid death there is an indirect death caused by delays to cancer services and changes to emergency admissions, early hospital discharges and so on.'

He said that more co-ordinated, organised action since the lockdown rules were lifted appear to have prevented a second national crisis.

Without local restrictions in areas where infection rates are high, he said, the country might have been faced with another out-of-control situation like the one in March.

'I think the evidence from what happened earlier in the year,' he told the Today programme, 'is that acting early, decisively, quickly, is actually the best way to contain the spread of the virus and that's what I think Chris Whitty and the Prime Minister are saying.

COVID-19 CASES ARE FLATTENING BUT STILL AT 20,000 PER DAY, STUDY PREDICTS King's College London's weekly estimate of the number of people catching coronavirus in the UK suggests that the growth of the outbreak is slowing down, but there are still nearly 20,000 people getting infected each day. The Covid Symptom Study, run in conjunction with ZOE, a health-tech team that runs the Covid Symptom Tracker app, estimates there are now 19,777 people getting infected each day across the UK. This is a rise from the 16,130 daily infections prediction last week but the increase is smaller than it was between the previous two estimates. The rise from September 24 to October 1 was 23 per cent, while between September 17 and 24 it more than doubled from 7,536 (a 114 per cent increase). Some 14,837 of these cases are thought to be happening in England, with the majority in the North East and Yorkshire and the North West (a total of approximately 8,800). A further 2,294 people are thought to be getting sick each day in Scotland, along with 1,331 in Wales and 1,315 in Northern Ireland. The estimates are based on the results of 8,377 swab tests. And they suggest that the reproduction rate of the virus, the R, has fallen, too - to 1.2 in England, 1.3 in Scotland and 1.4 in Wales. Professor Tim Spector, an epidemiologist and leader of the study, said: 'We are confident that this flattening in the data looks real and that this might be an early sign of infection rates slowing down. 'This may be due to a number of factors including social distancing and the "rule of six", but we cant discount the role of less susceptible people and prior immunity in those exposed and the natural cycle of the virus. 'We are seeing nearly 50 per cent of our cases are coming from the under 30s, which is more than in the spring, which may explain why the pressures on the NHS are less. 'We still need to continue to work together to make sure this flattening off isnt a small blip. As we head into winter we all need to be cautious and pay attention to the advice we are being given around local restrictions, social distancing and avoiding gathering in large groups.' Advertisement

'One of the things that is often not noted about Italy was the successful way in which they managed to contain the outbreak of the virus in northern Italy, in Lombardy, and avoid it spreading to the rest of the country.

'Now, we didn't manage to do that first time round but it just may be that these local lockdowns, although we haven't seen a big reduction in transmission within those areas, they may just have contained it and stopped it from becoming the national outbreak that we had before.'

In his interview Mr Hunt also called again for NHS staff to get swab tests regularly to prevent the virus spreading inside hospitals.

Currently, staff are generally only offered swab tests if they have symptoms of the disease, but care home carers are tested every week.

NHS workers do get priority access to tests over members of the public, according to the Department of Health's rationing list, but they cannot get tested whenever they want.

The ex-Health Secretary said regular testing would help people to feel safe if they had to go to hospital for something that wasn't Covid-19.

Professor Chris Whitty, England's chief medical officer, appealed in a TV briefing last night for people to see their doctors as usual without fear of coronavirus.

The Health and Social Care Committee, of which Mr Hunt is the chair, said it was 'yet to understand' why routine NHS testing had not been introduced and called for it to happen as quickly as capacity allows and 'certainly before winter'.

The cross-party group of MPs said staff treating patients should not be put at any 'further unnecessary risk' of catching or spreading Covid-19.

In a report, they said: 'The committee accepts the advice from many eminent scientists that there is a significant risk that not testing NHS staff routinely could lead to higher levels of nosocomial (hospital-acquired) infections in any second spike.

'We therefore urge the Government to set out clearly why it is yet to implement weekly testing of all NHS staff.'

MPs said the Government and NHS England must set out by the end of October what current capacity there is for testing all NHS staff, what further capacity may be needed and how long it is likely to take to offer routine testing.

Their report warned that around 70 per cent of Covid-19 carriers could be asymptomatic 'and only the routine testing all healthcare staff will ensure core health and care services are returned to normal levels'.

Mr Hunt added on Times Radio: 'The way you give people confidence is by saying that every member of staff in this hospital, everyone who has any contact with patients, is being tested once or twice a week.

'There are definitely measures that you can take and I think hospitals have shown incredible resilience in tackling these kind of logistical challenges.

'But I do think it's very important as we go into winter, when hospitals are going to become a lot busier anyway, that we avoid what happened.

'One major London teaching hospital had more than 40 per cent of their staff infected.

'That's an incredibly dangerous thing to allow to happen and that's what we have got to make sure doesn't happen this time.'
comedy central

South Park's one-hour "Pandemic Special" episode managed to mock nearly every aspect of our current moment, but reserved its perhaps most scathing rebuke for President Trump.

While many have characterized the Comedy Central series as having an increasingly libertarian or conservative bent in recent years  particularly as it's ripped into political correctness  Wednesday's episode unequivocally blasted the president for his handling of the COVID-19 crisis.

Midway through the episode, Trump (played by Mr. Garrison, who has served as the show's stand-in for Trump since season 19) is shown lounging in the Oval Office refusing to take urgent calls from the CDC, FDA and Dr. Anthony Fauci. Stan Marsh manages to get through and explains that Trump/Garrison might be able to stop the pandemic if he visits the town of South Park. The president refuses, noting that he "made a promise to the American people to get rid of all the Mexicans."

When Stan notes that COVID kills more than just Latinos, Trump says that the virus is "still killing a lot of them" and then pulls out a chart showing how the coronavirus disproportionately impacts people of color. "All I have to do is guide the avalanche in the right direction and Im fulfilling my promise to the American people," Trump explains. "I was doing a crap job until this pandemic happened.

Youre just going to sit there and not do anything? Stan asks, bewildered.

Im going to actively not do anything," Trump replies. "And you can [expletive] and die.

(The chart shown isn't accurate, by and by, but Blacks and Latinos are disproportionately impacted by COVID-19 in terms of the number of cases and deaths, as NPR broke down in several charts last week).

At the end of the episode, a cure for COVID-19 is finally found. But Trump blasts the scientist with a flame thrower to prevent the cure from being released. In an unusual moment of advocacy for the ever-facetious series, Trump reminded viewers to vote this fall.

Story continues

The show also took on police violence, with South Park cops going on a rampage, accidentally shooting a Black student (and covering it up) and murdering kids caught out after curfew.

Disney was also a target, with the pandemic's origins traced to Mickey Mouse's wild R-rated trip to China with Randy Marsh. "Its your fault Mickey Mouse!" Randy rants to Mickey. "You made a deal with the devil when you sold your Mulan s--- to China, and you told me how great China was and how we should suck that d---!" Disney has come under fire for filming part of the movie in the same province where China has forced millions of Muslims into internment camps.

Other targets were hit as well, such as panic buying, improper mask-wearing, social distancing, and Zoom sessions.

During the episode's climax, Stan gives a tearful (and, truth be told, rather emotionally effective) speech when he laments the pandemic and its devastating psychological impacts.

"I cant take these shutdowns anymore and Im scared what its doing to me," he says. "Im looking for who to blame  saying Im trying to help people to make myself feel better. The truth is I just want to have fun again. I wanted to see that I could go out in the world and do things I used to do, but I cant. Im not any better and I dont care any more than anyone else. I did all this because I just want my life back. I just want my life back."

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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.
Islamabad (Pakistan), 30 September 2020  The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Country Office Pakistan, the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the UNODC Container Control Program (CCP), in partnership with national counterparts unveiled a new Air Cargo Control Unit (ACCU) at Islamabad Airport  funded with the support of the Governments of Japan and the United States of America. The unit is tasked with the inspection of inbound and outbound air consignments that are suspected to contain illicit substances.

Smugglers have long been using legitimate cargo to conceal their illegal shipments. The high volume of global trade and consignment movements makes it challenging for customs and law enforcement officers to spot illicit loads, which are often disguised within what otherwise appear to be legitimate consignments.

To address this challenge, UNODC and the World Customs Organization (WCO) developed the Container Control Programme (CCP). The Programme builds capacity in countries seeking to improve risk management by, among other activities, training profiling experts. Its aim is to engage in cross-agency cooperation and develop trainee's abilities in risk analysis, joint profiling, and targeting suspect shipments.

The UNODC-WCO Container Control Programme was launched in 2004 and Pakistan was among the first countries to join the initiative  with its first unit established at the Karachi seaport.

The results delivered by the Karachi Port Control Unit were encouraging, leading Pakistan to offer to host a CCP-trained Air Cargo Control Unit (ACCU) at Karachi International Airport. Funded by generous donations from the Government of Denmark, Karachi ACCU was established in 2016, while Lahore ACCU followed in 2018 with the support of the Governments of Japan and the United States of America.

The inauguration of Islamabad ACCU marks the third operational Air Cargo Control Unit in Pakistan after Karachi and Lahore marking a successful expansion of the initiative to all three major airports in the country.

In 2019, the Pakistan units stopped 40 narcotics trafficking attempts  resulting in the seizure of a total of 128 kilograms of heroin, 25 kilograms of cocaine, 303 kilograms of ketamine and 9 kilograms of methamphetamines for that year alone. The most frequent intended destinations for these seized narcotics were the United Kingdom, Canada and Malaysia.

The success of the Container Control Programme in Pakistan is a result of the great commitment from national counterparts, said Jeremy Milsom, UNODC Representative for the Country Office in Pakistan during his opening remarks. This is a great example where the joint initiative of UNODC and WCO flourishes through national counterparts reception, collaboration and appreciation, Mr. Milsom added.

The event also served to highlight the support of the Governments of Japan and the United States of America  the major donors for the recently established Islamabad ACCU.

His Excellency, Shindo Yusuke, Charge d Affaires ad interim of Japan to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan stated that, strengthening aviation security to prevent trafficking of illegal items is one of the major challenges, not only for Pakistan but other countries as well. Here, I would also like to mention that stability and peace is one of the important pillars of the foreign policy of Japan. The Government of Japan continues to contribute to the stability based on laws and regulations in various countries.

Other major donors of the Global Container Control Programme include Australia, Canada, Denmark, the European Union, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, and the United Kingdom.
The Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation (GLEIF) has today announced that financial institutions (FIs) worldwide can realize a variety of cost, efficiency and customer experience benefits by assuming a new Validation Agent role within the Global LEI System. FIs acting as Validation Agents simplify LEI issuance for their clients, reduce time-to-revenue, and future proof their institutions for digital innovation. The Validation Agent Framework is a new operational model in the Global LEI System.

By leveraging their know-your-customer (KYC), anti-money laundering (AML) and other regulated business-as-usual onboarding processes, Validation Agents can now obtain an LEI for their customers when verifying a clients identity during initial onboarding or during a standard client refresh update. Until now, labor intensive and time consuming legal document and data collection procedures, which are conducted as standard to verify the identity of a client entity within a banks onboarding process, have been replicated within the Global LEI System by a Local Operating Unit (LOU), as part of the LEI issuance process.

By becoming Validation Agents, FIs can spare their clients from these duplicative processes and deliver a faster and more convenient customer experience. Validation Agents can also capitalize on additional opportunities to add client value and achieve market differentiation. By expanding their LEI issuance beyond those that require an LEI for financial compliance, a Validation Agent can equip its whole business client base with globally recognized identities, which can be used across borders with any counterparty or supplier around the world.

In addition to these client benefits, the new operating model will allow FIs to enhance their internal data management capabilities and reduce costs. It also paves the way for FIs to expand their usage of the LEI beyond capital markets to encompass all banking business lines, an opportunity anticipated to save the industry U.S.$2-4 billion annually in client onboarding costs alone. Furthermore, widespread usage of the LEI better prepares the FI for the digitization of customer onboarding, payments, transactions, and contract signing. This new level of efficiency created by the Validation Agent role will remove numerous points of redundancy from the LEI issuance process, resulting in a more streamlined Global LEI System which supports GLEIFs vision for increased voluntary adoption of LEIs by the banking sector across non-regulatory use cases.

The Validation Agent Framework has been introduced following extensive consultation with GLEIFs Globally Important Financial Institutions (GIFI) Relationship Group, which comprises representatives of large banks, global asset management firms, insurance companies, and other FIs. The group facilitates communication between GLEIF, banks, FIs and other key LEI stakeholders and has given its full support to the Framework.

GLEIF is committed to supporting the banking industrys widespread implementation of the LEI beyond mandated requirements, comments Stephan Wolf, GLEIF CEO. The Validation Agent role helps financial institutions to improve their operations and enable their customers to more quickly achieve their desired financial transactions. By becoming Validation Agents financial institutions can streamline, accelerate and diversify their use of the LEI, and ensure their autonomy as they look to digitize their business processes. Considering that from a macro level, broader LEI usage and increasing volumes translate into more efficient financial transactions  from digitally signing contracts to financial markets participation  Validation Agents contribute to growth across the entire ecosystem, which will benefit all financial ecosystem stakeholders, as well as the global economy.

As a next step, GLEIF is actively engaging with the global banking community to support trials of the Validation Agent Framework and to ensure that the Global LEI System continues to meet the sectors needs. Our LEI issuer network plays an important role in supporting financial institutions to easily connect to the global financial ecosystem. LEI issuers, also known as Local Operating Units (LOUs) bring local knowledge to the Global LEI System and understand the needs of small and mid-sized financial institutions in the jurisdictions in which they operate. Their efforts, combined with GLEIFs, will undoubtedly generate some interesting pilot projects over the next twelve months, and these will be critical to the advancement of LEI adoption across banking portfolios.

For more information on the Validation Agent role, please visit the GLEIF website.

- ENDS -

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While a significant military regional military power, Algeria buys virtually no American military gear, bridling at U.S. conditions on armament exports. The only American troops in the country are stationed at the embassy. The country does not invite U.S. forces to conduct major training missions, as other regional nations do. (The Algerian government, which fought a bloody war against extremists in the 1990s, sees little benefit in the kind of counterterrorism training that other countries have scrambled to receive from the U.S. military, analysts say.)
Beatrice White, RN, with ECU Physicians gives a flu shot during a drive-thru clinic behind Family Medicine. | Photo: Cliff Hollis | Video: Reed Wolfley

Why should you get the flu shot during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Is it safe to get a flu shot during the pandemic? Why?

Who should get the flu shot?

How can ECU Physicians patients get flu shots?

At their scheduled appointment Walking into one of our pharmacy locations Access to our drive-thru vaccination clinic Through a local pharmacy

Is there anything different this year from a provider prospective pertaining to the flu vaccine and/or vaccine delivery  COVID-19-related or otherwise?

This post appears here courtesy of ECU News Services . The author of this post is AUTHORNAME.ECU Physicians, the physician practice of the Brody School of Medicine, is offering guidance and safeguarding during this year's flu season.The practice is offering a drive-thru flu vaccine clinic to current patients and ECU employees and students. The clinic will be held from 7:30-11:30 a.m. every Monday and Thursday through Oct. 29 behind the ECU Family Medicine Center.said Dr. Jason Foltz, chief medical officer of ECU Physicians.Walk-in clinics and daily vaccinations at ECU Physicians pharmacy locations are also being offered. Get schedules, requirements and other information HERE According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the 2019-20 influenza season continued to cause high numbers of flu-related hospitalizations and deaths following one of the deadliest influenza seasons on record in 2018-19. In North Carolina alone, there were 186 influenza-associated deaths last season.Foltz emphasized the importance of flu vaccinations during this season by answering some commonly asked questions about flu shots.Prevention of any condition is essential. It won't prevent you from getting COVID-19, but if will reduce your chance of getting the flu which can mimic similar symptoms of COVID-19. Getting a flu shot reduces the burden of flu illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths on the health care system, conserving resources for the care of patients with COVID-19.Yes. Per the Centers for Disease Control, for more than 50 years, hundreds of millions of Americans have safely received flu vaccines.Everyone six months of age and older should get a flu vaccine every year. It's especially important for patients at high risk of developing serious complications from the flu; such as, adults 65 and older, children under the age of two, pregnant patients, and those with chronic health conditions.Our patients have several options for receiving their vaccination this year:Due to COVID-19, we are offering a drive-thru clinic for our patients and their family members who are ages 10 and older. We are asking patients to complete a health information form in advance of arriving to the clinic located behind the ECU Family Medicine Center. The drive-thru clinic is offered every Monday and Thursday morning from 7:30-11:30 a.m. until the end of October. More information about the drive-thru and other vaccination clinic offerings is available on our flu prevention website
OSLO, Norway, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- October 1, 2020 - Aker Solutions won an order from ConocoPhillips to deliver the subsea production system for the Tommeliten Alpha development offshore Norway. The estimated contract value is about NOK 1.2 billion.

The scope of work covers a complete subsea production system including 10 vertical subsea trees, two manifolds, wellheads, satellite structures, control systems and tie-in equipment.

"We look forward to working together with ConocoPhillips to sustainably maximize the full potential of this field," said Kjetel Digre, chief executive officer of Aker Solutions.

The front-end engineering and design (FEED) starts immediately. The engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) work is expected to start in the second half of 2021 and will involve Aker Solutions' facilities in Norway, Brazil, Malaysia and the UK.

Tommeliten Alpha is a discovery in the southern part of the Norwegian sector in the North Sea, approximately 25 kilometers southwest of the Ekofisk field. The water depth is 75 meters. The discovery was proven in 1977. The reservoir contains a gas condensate fluid and lies at a depth of about 3,000 meters.

The contract is subject to Norwegian authorities' approval of the plan for development and operation (PDO).

The contract was booked as order intake in the third quarter of 2020.

CONTACT:

Media Contact:

Cathrine Gjertsen, mob: +47 99 49 25 37, email: cathrine.gjertsen@akersolutions.com

Investor Contact:

Fredrik Berge, mob: +47 450 32 090, email: fredrik.berge@akersolutions.com

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/aker-solutions-asa/r/aker-solutions-to-provide-subsea-production-system-for-tommeliten-alpha-development-in-norway,c3209158
After the first presidential debate on Tuesday which many people described as chaotic, the Commission on Presidential Debates announced that they are already considering changing the format of the following debates.

In the statement by the CPD, it said that the last debate made it clear that there is a need to add additional structure in order to make sure that the next debates would offer a more orderly discussion of the issues.

Moreover, it stated that they are carefully assessing the possible changes to adopt and will be announcing them as soon as they reach a decision.

According to NBC News, the CPD has sat down with both Trump and Biden before the debates, until they were able to come up with a set of rules. Thus, it made changing the structure of the debate challenging at the last minute, which proved how the debate spiraled out of control.

Based on the agreed-upon rules, each candidate would be given two minutes to answer most of the questions, uninterrupted. However, as the debate started, Republican candidate repeatedly interrupted Democrat nominee, Biden as he was answering the question, leading the debate to completely deteriorating.

As of the moment, it is unclear how the CPD would make changes to the rules in order to prevent a replay of Tuesday's event from happening. But there were some suggestions that the commission is considering adding the ability to cut off the microphone of the other candidate while the others are talking or when rules are violated.

After the debate of Tuesday, critics were quick to discuss whether both candidates are still worth it to participate in future debates. Dubbing the event as a "hot mess," many suggested in social media and cable television that the only way for a productive debate to push through is if microphones of the candidates who will break the rules will be cut off.

On the other hand, Biden also released a statement to reporters during a campaign stop in Ohio and said that he is hoping for future debates to be more organized and not chaotic.

Read also: Presidential Debate: Biden Denies Son Hunter Received $3.5 Million from Former Moscow Mayor's Wife

The moderator of the event on Tuesday, Chris Wallace was also highly criticized for struggling to keep the debate in order. However, he was defended by the CPD who praised his professionalism and acknowledged that it wasn't an easy task to stand in between the two candidates.

In an interview with the New York Times, Wallace expressed sadness about how the debate turned out, saying he did not expect it to go that way.

Wallace also stated that he does not think that muting the microphones would be the solution to the problem or would help calm the debates since he believes that even with the microphone off, those who want to interrupt would still do.

He even stated that the president may have even come up to Biden and took his microphone if his mic was turned off amid the discussion.

As a response to the criticism about what happened on the debate, Trump took it to Twitter and said that the CPD should try getting a new moderator and a Democrat candidate who is smarter.



Related article: Highlights of First US Presidential Debate Kicks Off With Trump and Biden in Heated Arguments

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Based in the firm's Cleveland office, Klein focuses his practice on representing private equity funds and private companies in various types of transactions, including mergers, dispositions, acquisitions and distressed acquisitions and dispositions. His experience also includes providing general corporate counseling to a variety of businesses in the manufacturing, construction, pharmaceutical, food and restaurant, energy, industrial, franchise, automotive, consumer products, technology and healthcare industries. He serves a general counsel function for portfolio companies of a private equity fund.

A graduate of Bowling Green State University who earned his J.D. from Western Michigan University's Thomas M. Cooley School of Law, Klein has served as a board member for BGSU's College of Business since 2013. He has also served on the Sigma Phi Epsilon Alumni Board since 2012. In 2018, Klein received the Cross Border Deal of the Year Award ($25MM-$50MM) from the M&A Advisor for the sale of Ricerca Biosciences Chemical Development Division to Olon S.p.A.

About McDonald Hopkins

Since 1930, McDonald Hopkins has thrived by building long-lasting relationships with businesses and individuals who share an entrepreneurial spirit. As the business advisory and advocacy law firm celebrates its 90th anniversary in 2020, it has a renewed commitment to providing exceptional client service and insight for the challenges at hand and on the horizon. To learn more, visit mcdonaldhopkins.com.

CONTACT:

David Carducci

McDonald Hopkins LLC

600 Superior Avenue, East, Suite 2100

Cleveland, Ohio 44114

Phone: 216.348.5814

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE McDonald Hopkins

Related Links

http://www.mcdonaldhopkins.com


As part of the company's ongoing corporate social responsibility efforts, PTG recently made a donation to help in the fight against COVID-19, says Tribert Rujugiro Ayabatwa

DUBAI, UAE / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / Through one of its manufacturing companies Leaf Tobacco and Commodities Nigeria Ltd., Pan African Tobacco Group recently joined the battle against COVID-19. Company founder Tribert Rujugiro Ayabatwa says that the company made a contribution on April 15, 2020, to the Kaduna State Government as part of the company's corporate social responsibility efforts.

As a successful serial entrepreneur and business leader, Tribert Rujugiro Ayabatwa is one of Africa's leading philanthropists and has helped many communities uplift themselves in several different areas including education, food security, afforestation, and water access.

At the time, Leaf Tobacco and Commodities Nigeria's donation was the largest contribution to the state of Nigeria's fight against COVID-19 to date.

The contributions included food and medical equipment like PCR machines, ventilators, and x-ray machines. Additional food contributions were sent to LTCN's immediate community in Gbakura.

"The Kaduna State Government does not have enough words to say thank you. This donation shows that you are good partners in business," said Balarabe Abbas Lawal, secretary to the state government.

"As you know, there is no state government that can do everything. On our own end, the governor has approved millions of naira that we have used to purchase relief items, and we have distributed them - and yet it's like we have not done anything, due to the size of the population affected. CSR gestures like this will go a very long way in assisting the government of Kaduna State."

Tribert Rujugiro Ayabatwa is keen to assist the Nigerian authorities and continues to join other government leaders to battle COVID-10 in countries where Pan African Tobacco Group operates.

"Corporate social responsibility is our way of life and we are dedicated to empowering communities to improve their own lives. It is our duty to help and serve our communities in any way we can," says Tribert Rujugiro Ayabatwa.

To learn more about Tribert Rujugiro Ayabatwa, visit https://www.ptg-hld.com/our-founder.

About Tribert Rujugiro Ayabatwa

Tribert Rujugiro Ayabatwa is a successful entrepreneur, business leader, and philanthropist from Rwanda. Ayabatwa is the founder and controlling shareholder of the Pan African Tobacco Group, Africa's largest indigenous manufacturer of tobacco products. The company, which celebrated its 40th year of operations last year, manufactures cigarettes in nine African countries including Nigeria, Angola, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, and the United Arab Emirates. Tribert Rujugiro Ayabatwa is also one of Africa's leading philanthropists. He has helped communities uplift themselves in fields such as education, food security, afforestation, and water-access. Through his non-profit foundation, Tribert also strives to help young people to gain the practical engineering experience required to enter the job market in Africa.

Contact:

David Himbara

contact@TribertRujugiroAyabatwa.net

SOURCE: Tribert Rujugiro Ayabatwa

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/608692/Tribert-Rujugiro-Ayabatwas-Pan-African-Tobacco-Group-Helps-in-Battle-Against-COVID-19-in-Nigeria
TAMPA, Fla., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ - Primo Water Corporation (NYSE: PRMW) (TSX: PRMW) (the "Company" or "Primo"), a leading provider of water direct to consumers and water filtration services in North America and Europe as well as a leading provider of water dispensers, purified bottled water, and self-service refill drinking water in the U.S. and Canada, today announced that Primo Water North America, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Primo, is now a CarbonNeutral certified company that has achieved certification under The CarbonNeutral Protocol, an international standard administered by Natural Capital Partners. This certification is in addition to the certifications in its European operations where it has maintained carbon neutrality for the past eight consecutive years.

SCS Global Services ("SCS"), a global leader in third-party environmental and sustainability verication, has independently verified that Primo Water North America has achieved carbon neutrality for its U.S. operations after establishing its GHG inventory for Scopes 1, 2, and select Scope 3 categories, and purchasing and retiring carbon offsets through Natural Capital Partners.

"Achieving carbon neutrality in our U.S. operations is a critical step toward improving our standing as a sustainability leader and ensuring that we are upholding our commitment to being a steward of the planet's natural resources," said Tom Harrington, Primo's Chief Executive Officer. "Over the past several years, we have shifted new route truck purchasing from diesel to propane powered vehicles to reduce carbon emissions and optimized mileage by implementing route planning technologies. We have also improved efficiency at our production facilities to lower our energy usage per finished product. Looking ahead, we will continue to search for sustainable ways to improve the livelihoods of our customers, our associates and the communities we serve."

"Primo Water North America is doing an outstanding job in mitigating its carbon footprint and fighting climate change, setting a sustainability leadership precedent in the beverage industry," added Stanley Mathuram, VP of Global Business Development at SCS. "The company's comprehensive environmental approach has proven to be crucial in achieving carbon neutrality."

ABOUT PRIMO WATER NORTH AMERICA

Primo Water North America, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Primo Water Corporation, is a U.S.-based company providing bottled water, break room supplies, and equipment and services for water filtration systems. They provide products to over a million homes, offices, restaurants, food service organizations, convenience stores, and retail locations across the country. Among its best-known bottled water brands are Alhambra, Crystal Rock, Crystal Springs, Deep Rock, Hinckley Springs, Kentwood Springs, Mount Olympus, Nursery  Water, Sierra Springs, Sparkletts. Learn more at https://www.water.com/.

ABOUT PRIMO WATER CORPORATION

Primo Water Corporation is a leading pure-play water solutions provider in North America, Europe and Israel and generates approximately $2.1 billion in annual revenue. Primo operates largely under a recurring razor/razorblade revenue model. The razor in Primo's revenue model is its industry leading line-up of sleek and innovative water dispensers, which are sold through major retailers and online at various price points or leased to customers. The dispensers help increase household penetration which drives recurring purchases of Primo's razorblade offering. Primo's razorblade offering is comprised of Water Direct, Water Exchange, and Water Refill. Through its Water Direct business, Primo delivers sustainable hydration solutions across its 21-country footprint direct to the customer's door, whether at home or to commercial businesses. Through its Water Exchange and Water Refill businesses, Primo offers pre-filled and reusable containers at over 13,000 locations and water refill units at approximately 22,000 locations, respectively. Primo also offers water filtration units across its 21-country footprint representing a top five position.

Primo's water solutions expand consumer access to purified, spring and mineral water to promote a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle while simultaneously reducing plastic waste and pollution. Primo is committed to its water stewardship standards and is proud to partner with the International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) in North America as well as with Watercoolers Europe (WE), which ensure strict adherence to safety, quality, sanitation and regulatory standards for the benefit of consumer protection.

Primo is headquartered in Tampa, Florida (USA). For more information, visit www.primowatercorp.com.

ABOUT SCS GLOBAL SERVICES



SCS Global Services is a global leader in third-party environmental and sustainability verication, certication, auditing, testing, and standards development. Its programs span a cross-section of industries, recognizing achievements in climate mitigation, green building, product manufacturing, food and agriculture, forestry, consumer products, and more. Headquartered in Emeryville, California, SCS has representatives and affiliate offices throughout the Americas, Asia/Pacific, Europe and Africa. Its broad network of auditors are experts in their fields, and the company is a trusted partner to companies, agencies and advocacy organizations due to its dedication to quality and professionalism. SCS is a chartered Benet Corporation, reecting its commitment to socially and environmentally responsible business practices. For more information, visit www.scsglobalservices.com and to learn more about carbon neutral certification, visit https://www.scsglobalservices.com/services/carbon-neutral-certification .

ABOUT NATURAL CAPITAL PARTNERS



Natural Capital Partners works with its clients to harness the power of business to create a more sustainable world. With more than 300 clients in 34 countries, including Microsoft, MetLife, PwC, GE Renewable Energy, LinkedIn and ING, the company delivers high-quality solutions for carbon neutrality, renewable energy, water stewardship, building supply chain resilience and protecting biodiversity. For more information, visit https://www.naturalcapitalpartners.com/ .

SOURCE Primo Water Corporation

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YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. Two of the three Azeri warplanes that were shot down by Artsakh on October 1 were SU-25s, while the other one was a newer generation aircraft, a military expert said.

Information about the third downed jet will be updated.

The Azeri air force has lost a total of 4 warplanes since they launched the offensive against Artsakh on September 27.

Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan
It has been threatened for three weeks  Brussels is taking London to court for breaking international law.

The road ahead is complex, long and uncertain. So, lets answer the key questions.

That is the first question before moving through the many complexities of this tortured issue. Granted, any eventual sanctions against London  after years in court  may be somewhat illusory since they are leaving anyway.

But, in the immediate term, it makes the world a very uncomfortable place for Boris Johnson and his London government. They stand before the community of nations accused of flouting international law at a time when they are seeking new international trade deals and alliances. This further dilutes any residual goodwill towards them within the EU.

Read More

Is this legal move unusual?

Yes  its ground-breaking stuff.

Brussels-versus-member government legal action happens regularly. But its usually about water pollution, breaking EU grant-aid rules, destroying wildlife habitats or something along those lines.

The scale of this legal case is completely unheard of.

Is it all about the Border in Ireland?

Mainly  but not entirely. The UK finalised a political divorce with the EU on a political basis on January 31 last.

Talks on a commercial divorce are ongoing, with a standstill on free-trade arrangements to continue only until December 31.

The basis of the EU-UK divorce is the so-called Withdrawal Agreement. It has an appended section on special treatment for Northern Ireland.

That is called a protocol in the jargon and has full legal status.

In essence, it says that there will be no EU border checks in Ireland on goods going between the Republic and the North. But to protect the integrity of the EU border-free single market there will have to be limited checks on goods coming into the North from England, Wales and Scotland. That is to prevent the Republic of Ireland becoming an EU market back-door for product which does not meet agreed Brussels standards.

Does that mean the so-called border in the Irish Sea?

Absolutely. Thats a red rag to Northern unionists and some English Conservatives. But Boris Johnson  with compromise-brokering help from then-Taoiseach Leo Varadkar  signed up for this.

EU-UK talks were ongoing about how this could be kept to a minimum. But Brussels officials were suspicious about foot-dragging by London on putting in customs infrastructure and staff recruitment.

Then, on September 10, Mr Johnson dropped the bombshell. It was called the UK Internal Market Bill. The UK government admitted this breached international law but only in a technical and limited way. London justified it as protecting trade with Northern Ireland and the other UK territories.

What is wrong with Boris Johnsons draft law  the UK Internal Market Bill?

It reserves the right to change the post-Brexit status of the North. It allows London to decide, all by itself, what product going into the North would be subject to checks.

It yet again raises the question of north-south checks in Ireland. It flouts the 1998 Good Friday Agreement which is fully recognised in the EU-UK Withdrawal Agreement. The EU sees it as a potential threat to peace in Ireland.

So, what happened then?

The EU gave the UK until September 30 to withdraw the offending clauses from its draft law. They refused and, in fact, the bill has cleared the House of Commons and moves to the House of Lords.

Today, October 1, EU Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, announced the start of legal proceedings.

Has this impacted the ongoing EU-UK free-trade deal talks?

It has not helped because it further degraded already strained EU-UK relations.

But there is an EU determination not to walk away from these talks, which are rapidly running out of time.

What are the next moves?

A legal letter has been issued and London has a month to reply. This is a slow burner.

The best hope is that some kind of rabbit can be pulled out of a hat in EU-UK trade talks to salvage some limited post-Brexit trade deal.

Ireland remains piggy-in-the-middle with tens of thousands of Irish jobs on the line.
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Wild elephants in Sri Lanka have been found with plastic products and non-digestive polythene in their stomachs after eating rubbish at a dump encroaching on their habitat.

Heartbreaking images of the elephants foraging for food on a refuse facility in Oluvil were captured by Jaffna-based photographer Tharmaplan Tilaxan.

The open garbage dump is nestled in the jungles of the eastern province and it poses hazards to the local elephant population, who accidentally eat microplastics in the waste.

Wild elephants in Oluvil, Sri Lanka, have been found with plastic products and non-digestive polythene in their stomachs after eating rubbish at a dump encroaching on their habitat

A herd of 25 to 30 wild elephants regularly visits the open garbage dump in search of food, posing risks to their health

The elephants walk through the large dump, which has waste supplied by districts including Sammanthurai, Kalmunai, Karaitheevu, Ninthavur, Addalachchenai, Akkaraipattu and Alaiyadi Vembu

The open garbage dump is nestled in the jungles of the Eastern Province and poses hazards to the local elephant population, who accidentally eat microplastics in the waste

Mr Tilaxan said: 'In the eastern province, a herd of wild elephants have picked up a peculiar and sad habit.

'Since of late, these elephants have been seen foraging for food in garbage dumps.'

The dump is close to the forest bordering the Ampara district and is thought to be the cause of the new unhealthy behaviour.

Waste from districts including Sammanthurai, Kalmunai, Karaitheevu, Ninthavur, Addalachchenai, Akkaraipattu and Alaiyadi Vembu is dumped there.

An elephant looks out over the huge, open rubbish dump in search of food. The ground is littered with plastic bags and dangerous waste

Two elephants eat search for food in the dump, as scavenger birds join to pick off what is left. While there was a fence erected around the dump, it is now broken and unable to prevent the elephants from entering

A garbage dump situated near Ashraf Nagar close to the forest (pictured) bordering the Ampara district is considered the cause of the new unhealthy habit

With the enlarging of the dump, the forest is now covered with polythene bags, discarded plastics and other dangerous waste

The dump has slowly encroached on the adjacent forest, becoming easily accessible to the elephants.

While there was a fence erected around the dump, it is now broken and unable to prevent them from entering.

Since the dump has been enlarged, the forest has become covered with polythene bags, discarded plastics and other garbage.

Large quantities of undigested pollutants have been found in the excretion of the wild animals.

The herd of of 25 to 30 elephants now accustomed to feeding so close to human habitat have also begun to invade nearby paddy fields and villages seeking more food

Three Oluvil elephants stand next to each other in their natural jungle habitat. The dump has slowly encroached on the adjacent forest, becoming easily accessible to the elephants

Large quantities of undigested pollutants have been found in the excretion of the wild animals. Elephant postmortems have shown plastic products and non-digestive polythene in their stomachs

Waste from districts including Sammanthurai, Kalmunai, Karaitheevu, Ninthavur, Addalachchenai, Akkaraipattu and Alaiyadi Vembu is dumped there

Elephant postmortems have shown plastic products and non-digestive polythene in their stomachs.

The herd of of 25 to 30 elephants now accustomed to feeding so close to human habitat have also begun to invade nearby paddy fields and villages seeking more food, adding more tension to the already fraught relationship between villagers and the wild animals.

Despite a number of roundtable discussions with authorities that arrived at many solutions  including the construction of a reinforced fence around the garbage dump  no action has been taken to prevent the wild elephants of Oluvil from entering the urban areas in search of food, predominantly in garbage dumps.

Elephants normally travel over 19 miles (30 kilometres) per day and seed up to 3500 new trees a day.
New Delhi: Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai on Thursday said the city government will launch a mega anti-air pollution campaign on October 5 and a centre is being set up in Najafgarh to produce a chemical to deal with stubble burning. Rai said he has appealed to the Centre and the neighbouring states to use the chemical developed by scientists at Indian Agricultural Research Institute here to manage stubble.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will launch a mega anti-air pollution campaign after a meeting with officials from departments of environment, transport, development, PWD, Delhi Development Authority, Delhi Jal Board, traffic police and municipal corporations," he said. At a meeting of NCR states with Union Environment Prakash Javadekar, Rai asked the Centre to take time-bound action to ensure the 11 thermal power plants and more than 1,900 brick kilns using outdated technology in the national capital region control their emissions.

There are 11 plants around Delhi  in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Punjab  which were supposed to retrofit their units with technology called flue-gas desulphurisation to reduce emissions by December 2019. Rai said there are more than 1,640 such brick kilns in Uttar Pradesh, 161 in Haryana and 164 Rajasthan. All these contribute to Delhis air pollution massively, he said.

The minister said the Delhi government presented its plan to tackle stubble burning in the city during the meeting with Javadekar. He said a centre is being set up in Kharkhari village in Najafgarh where bio-decomposer solution will be prepared in around 400 containers starting Tuesday.

IARIs new technology involves a liquid formulation prepared using bio-decomposer capsules, fermenting it over 8-10 days and then spraying the mixture on crop residue to ensure speedy bio-decomposition of the stubble. Capsules worth Rs 20 can effectively deal with 4-5 tonnes of raw straw per acre.

Rai said the Centre has been providing subsidies up to 80 percent on farm machinery, but farmers still have to pay from their own pocket to use it. The Pusa bio-decomposer capsule is an economically viable option. We have estimated that only Rs 20 lakh is needed to manage stubble in 800 hectares of agricultural land in Delhi," he said.

Javadekar said Uttar Pradesh will be using the Pusa microbial decomposer capsule technology over 10,000 hectares and Delhi over 800 hectares this year. The Delhi government has been directed to focus on the 13 pollution hotspots in the city. 50 teams of the Central Pollution Control Board will be deployed in Delhi-NCR region to take appropriate action this year, the Union minister said.

Rai said an action plan has been prepared to stop stubble burning in the city. Under it, farmers will fill a form providing details such as name, address, village, the area where they produce non-basmati rice and the date when they want the government to spray the chemical to tackle stubble burning.

Based on this form the Delhi government will send officials to spray the chemical at the designated farmland. Agricultural development officers of all the districts will lead this work, he said.

Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor
OTTAWA - The Liberal government is promising to finally spend $10 billion that has sat in the accounts of its infrastructure financing agency for years, hoping to create thousands of post-pandemic jobs.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said the three-year plan would create 60,000 jobs by expanding access to high-speed internet, building out agricultural irrigation infrastructure in western provinces and greening transit fleets.

He didnt outline any specific projects  or any new money  but highlighted priority areas in which the bank intends to invest.

The reshaped spending will front the costs for things like energy retrofits of buildings, offer low-cost financing for the purchase of zero-emission buses, or de-risk agriculture projects with uncertain returns due to commodity price fluctuations.

All told, the government has retooled $10 billion from the banks allocation of $35 billion, some of which had already been earmarked for rural broadband and greening transit fleets.

Michael Sabia, chairman of the Canada Infrastructure Bank board, vowed the money wouldnt sit idle. He said he expected the agency to announce projects by the end of this year.

There is a substantial amount of work that has been done on that, but there is a substantial amount of work to do, Sabia said Thursday at a news conference in Ottawa.

To get that investment program moving  thats our top priority.

Sabia, the former head of Quebecs pension fund, was named chairman of the board in April amid a shakeup of the infrastructure banks senior executives. A new chief executive has yet to be named.

At that time, he and the government predicted that the bank would play a major role in stimulating the economy after the pandemic.

The Liberals created the agency in 2017 to entice funding from private-sector partners, particularly big institutional investors like pension funds, to pay for what the government called transformational infrastructure projects.

However, the bank has been criticized for the relatively few investments it has made thus far, in just nine projects. During last falls federal election campaign, both the Conservatives and the NDP promised to abolish the bank if elected.

Conservative Leader Erin OToole reiterated that promise on Thursday, calling the Liberals plan just another re-announcement.

Construction workers in New Brunswick, commuters in Montreal, and agricultural workers in the Prairies dont need more Liberal hashtags and photo ops, he said in a statement.

They need an actual plan to build roads, bridges, and railways.

The Liberals say the investment plan is part of the governments promise in last weeks throne speech to create one million jobs and revive an economy ravaged by the COVID-19 pandemic. It is also intended to help the government meet its goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Among the new allocations are $1.5 billion for agricultural infrastructure in the West, and $2.5 billion for clean power, or half the $5 billion previously given for so-called green infrastructure.

There is also $2 billion for broadband to connect some 750,000 households and businesses, up from the $500 million the bank in 2018 was asked to invest. The Liberals promised in summer 2019 to spend $6 billion through to 2030 to expand broadband to all corners of the country.

A further $500 million is to help speed up the things that need to be done before starting construction, such as studies and technical reports.

Sabia said projects that get the banks backing would require them to contribute to economic growth, draw in private capital to turn $1 of public funding into $2 or $3 of spending, and help the bank earn back what it pays out.

He said the bank has already started the work needed to identify and review proposed and existing projects.

The analyses have been done because we know where these projects are, Sabia said. So this plan, as I said, is very real, very concrete, bottom-up build and we have a lot of confidence in it.

New Democrat infrastructure critic Taylor Bachrach said the infrastructure bank has proven to be the wrong tool for getting projects built.

The public-private approach the Liberals continue to push consistently ends up costing Canadians more over the long term, while private investors can make millions, he said.

Bloc Quebecois critic Xavier Barsalou-Duval said in a statement that provinces and cities need direct and unconditional federal funding to pay for projects. Instead, Barsalou-Duval said, the Trudeau Liberals are offering more loans.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 1, 2020.

Read more about:
Two soldiers of the Indian Army were killed and four others were injured in a ceasefire violation by Pakistan in north Kashmirs Naugam sector on Thursday morning, said an army official.

The army said that Pakistan initiated an unprovoked ceasefire violation on the Line of Control (LoC) on Thursday morning. The injured soldiers are being evacuated.

Army spokesman Rajesh Kalia in a statement said that Pakistan initiated an unprovoked ceasefire violation along the LoC in Naugam sector, Kupwara by firing mortars and other weapons.

Two soldiers fatal. Four soldiers injured, being evacuated. Befitting response is being given, the spokesperson said.

A senior police officer said that since morning intermittent ceasefire violation is going on at the LoC. Besides other weapons, artillery firing is still going on, he said, wishing not to be quoted.

The soldiers who were killed have been identified as Havaldar Kuldeep from Unit 15 Sikh Light Infantry and Rifleman Shubham of 8 Jammu And Kashmir Rifles.

Also Read: Shopian: Two civilians arrested in connection with July killings

On Wednesday, Lance Naik Karnail Singh was killed during shelling by Pakistan along the 744 km-long LoC in Krishna Ghati (KG) sector of Jammu and Kashmirs Poonch district. The deceased soldier was a native of Loha Khera in Sangrur district of Punjab.

On Monday, an army soldier was injured when Pakistani forces opened fire on the Indian pickets in north Kashmirs Machil sector.

Also Read: OFB dismisses armys report on faulty ammo

This year has seen a number of ceasefire violations by Pakistan from across the LoC, especially in north Kashmir. The army has been responding to every such ceasefire violation with full force. Senior army officers have said that the unprovoked ceasefire violation is chiefly aimed to facilitate infiltration of terrorists.
What The Study Did: The U.S. Army Public Health COVID-19 Task Force describes the results of an independent investigation of the shore-based USS Theodore Roosevelt outbreak response and 736 sailors in isolation status.

Authors: Gadiel R. Alvarado, D.O., of the Brooke Army Medical Center in Fort Sam Houston, Texas, 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/jamanetworkopen.2020.20981)

Editor's Note: Please see the article for additional information, including other authors, author contributions and affiliations, conflict of interest and financial disclosures, and funding and support.

###

The full study and commentary are 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 http://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2020.20981?utm_source=For_The_Media&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=ftm_links&utm_term=100120

About JAMA Network Open: JAMA Network Open is the new online-only open access general medical journal from the JAMA Network. On weekdays, the journal publishes peer-reviewed clinical research and commentary in more than 40 medical and health subject areas. Every article is free online from the day of publication.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday ruled out the possibility of reopening schools anytime soon, saying her government will take a call on the issue only after mid-November.

In an administrative review meeting in North Bengal, Banerjee said a decision in this regard will be taken after Kali puja on November 14.

All schools have been shut in Bengal since March 16, following the outbreak of COVID-19.

Any decision on reopening of schools will be taken after Kali puja, the CM said.

Earlier, state education minister Partha Chatterjee had said that Bengal would wait for the pandemic to slow down as it was not in favour of exposing its students to health risks by resuming classes in schools.

At the meeting, Banerjee also announced that 50 acres in north Bengal has been allotted to Cooch Behar Panchanan Barma University for its second campus.

Work for the second campus will start soon, she said.
The boss of Belfast City Airport has said the business is still "resilient" despite a question mark over its future in company accounts.

But chief executive Brian Ambrose said the airport had to come up with a new business plan to get through the pandemic - which is reviewed with its banks every month.

And it will have to secure a new agreement next year to protect it from onerous financial conditions known as covenants.

He said he thinks the airport will operate at best on about one-third of usual levels between now and the end of next March.

It went from 100 flights a day to just one after the collapse of regional airline Flybe, which operated 12 routes, followed swiftly by the onset of Covid-19 and the cessation of most air travel.

Latest figures from the Civil Aviation Authority show that just 30,243 passengers used the airport in August. That's down 88.8% on August 2019.

However, almost all the routes left by Flybe's collapse have now been filled by airlines including Loganair, Eastern Airways and Aer Lingus Regional, which Mr Ambrose says boosts its chances of securing future support.

He said a presentation shown to bank bosses every month features an image of the departures board at the airport reflecting its growth in routes.

Mr Ambrose added: "At the worst point we were losing 1m a month, but in the plan we've agreed with the banks and the lenders we're eating into some of the cash, but at that, we believe even without any material pick-up in business, the business is still resilient through the end of that year.

"Our assumption is that we will have a subdued winter and that things will start to pick up again in the spring."

Business demand is being hit by the continued trend for working from home, he said, and even with the majority of routes now filled by new operators, the airport remains loss-making.

He and other airport directors state in company accounts that there is "a material uncertainty" around the business as it battles with Covid-19 and the fallout from Flybe. Mr Ambrose told the Belfast Telegraph that stating a material uncertainty was "unprecedented".

The accounts state that because the bank covenant has to be reviewed again in June next year, "therefore, a material uncertainty exists which may cast significant doubt in respect of the company's ability to continue as a going concern".

The company's 2019 accounts show a loss of 427,000, even ahead of the pandemic and collapse of Flybe.

Mr Ambrose said he has had to renegotiate terms with the banks to obtain a holiday from its covenants, requiring the airport's income to be in a certain ratio to its debt.

A waiver of the terms has been given for June and December this year, and he said he is hopeful it will be granted another in June next year.

"I don't want to presume anything but I think if they were willing to give us a waiver at the time on the basis of what we said we believed we could do, I think we're in a very strong position and have done everything we set out, and there's every reason they would have confidence to extend it, and that will happen at the appropriate point," he explained.

But Mr Ambrose said that when flights were reduced during lockdown "the business isn't actually viable and we're in breach of our bank covenants, so the first thing we had to do is get the banks and lenders on board that we had a viable business".

"On that basis they waived the covenants for a period of time and introduced a fresh covenant with which we're compliant, but as directors of the company we do need to make a statement on going concern in the current environment," he added.

He said the arrival of new airlines had vindicated his confidence. "The only bits we haven't filled is a summer schedule to Newquay in Cornwall, which is really immaterial as far as volumes are concerned, and Cardiff, which we believe we will restart and make an announcement on that," he said.

"My personal expectation is that I think that conditions, short of a vaccine being found, are likely to prevail right through this winter so I think the period between now and the start of October and end of March next year is likely to be about a third of what we experienced of 2019."

While operating profits were 3m during 2019 - down 8% - the pre-tax loss of 427,000 was more than double the 166,000 of 2018.

Mr Ambrose said the "modest" loss was down to expenditure on items such as IT, and its dependence on Flybe, which had been struggling throughout 2019.
Leading UAE-based smart and green facilities management (FM) company Farnek has appointed Khaldun Aburok as the new director of business development.

A Swiss national, Aburoks previous experience in business development includes a senior role with major Japanese corporation Omron, a global leader in the field of automation, initially reporting into their regional HQ for EMEA in Amsterdam.

He started out as a field sales engineer based in Switzerland, and after almost three years service, in 2015, he was promoted to regional sales manager for the Mena region, heading up the Dubai branch office.

Prior to that, Aburok worked in the research department at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich, having graduated from the University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, with a Bachelors degree in electrical engineering and IT.

Lauding the appointment, CEO Markus Oberlin said: "Khaldun has a great deal of engineering sales experience, both here in the UAE and Europe, and has a very strong technological background. Therefore, given the challenging market conditions due to the pandemic, he was the ideal candidate to drive our business growth strategy."

Farnek has invested more than one million dollars into research and development to advance innovative tech-driven initiatives such as biometrics, its multifunctional smartwatch technology, and, more recently, its disinfection tunnel.

The Swiss national has been given the responsibility for supporting the corporate strategic vision of Farnek by implementing an aggressive business growth strategy, he stated.

Since joining Farnek earlier this year, Aburok has made an immediate impact, securing multimillion-dollar projects with Dubai Development Authority and United Arab Bank, as well as winning contracts with Gulf Vision, Valiant Clinic owned by Belhoul Hospital, SIG- Schools, and Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park.

His responsibilities include directing the business development department's day-to-day activities, including leading, motivating, and developing the sales team, improving quality management and client relationships, and budget accountability.

On his new role, Aburok said: "Environmental and social awareness, innovation and technology are at the forefront of Farneks corporate strategy, which are values and aspects of the business that I am passionate about."

"Add that to my experience of studying and working in Switzerland, and the decision to join Farnek was totally natural and I am looking forward to a long and successful career here," he added.-TradeArabia News Service
Smaller churches lose access to YouTube livestream services

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Smaller churches have not been able to host their online services at their requested time on YouTube. The online video-sharing platform has been moving the times for some users with less than 100 subscribers allegedly due to heavy traffic, but without informing them.

Pastor Stuart Chaplin of Bushy Hill Park Community Church in London recently complained about it on Twitter.

If like @BHPCC you have less than 100 subscribers, you wont be getting access to that feature (premiere an event at a set time) any time soon. Unfortunately, our attempts to mutually boost subscribers with other @theFIEC churches didnt get us to the magic 100 figure, so were relying on a work round, he wrote.

Later, Chaplin wrote, "I have at last discovered why @YouTube suddenly stopped premieres on the hour or at half-past for some churches. Basically, because of the increase in traffic due to COVID, YT decided to throttle access to these prime times for small channels.

Its pretty poor show from @YouTube to make a big change that affects a large number of users, and not inform them that its going to happen. I only found out why because I went hunting for a notification that was buried in the noticeboards three weeks after the problem began.

Chaplin then had to request the churchs followers and other Twitter users to subscribe to their YouTube channel so that they had more than 100 subscribers. As of Monday, the channel had 128 subscribers.

Huge thanks to all those who have supported us over the line to 100 subscribers. I hope that by next week, we will be able to premiere at 10 am on Sunday again! he tweeted.

Chaplin also shared that he had been using a workaround on YouTube.

If you change the status of the video to public at the time you want it can broadcast as an instant premiere, he wrote.

The U.K.-based Premier Christian News was the first to report on the issue.

Responding to a question on YouTubes support page, the streaming platform wrote, We have been experiencing an increase in Premieres on YouTube during COVID-19. With a large number of videos all trying to premiere at the same time, some channels may be limited to posting at different 15-minute intervals (ex. You may see you can only post at 1:30 or 2:00 vs. 1:15 or 1:45). Were continuing to evaluate this and will keep you updated here on this thread when we return to regular posting intervals in the future.

Since early this year, the COVID-19 pandemic forced churches around the world to close their doors due to lockdowns to help curb the spread of the coronavirus. Churches made their worship services available online only, with worshipers watching from home.

In the United States, a majority of churches indicated that they have reopened their doors though many are holding in-person services with precautions in place, according to the Barna Group.
With the world gearing up to pay its tributes to Mahatma Gandhi, fondly known as Bapu on the eve of his 152nd birth anniversary commemorated on October 2 every year as Gandhi Jayanti also celebrated as the 'International Day of Non-Violence', here are the Top 5 freedom movements or struggles spearheaded by Gandhiji in sync with his principles of 'Ahimsa' or 'Non-Violence' in liberating India from the British rule which came about on August 15, 1947.

Here are the Top 5 freedom movements or struggles led by Mahatma Gandhi which eventually culminated in India's independence that students and people alike must know.

Quit India Movement - 1942

The Quit India Movement, also known as the 'August Movement' was launched by Mahatma Gandhi on August 8, 1942 at the Bombay Session of Congress amid World War II calling for the liberation of India from British rule. It was here that Gandhiji gave the historic 'Do or Die' call exhorting Indians to participate in the freedom struggle resulting in the imprisonment of the entire Indian National Congress leadership without any trial. Although the movement was eventually crushed, it compelled the British to look into the question of granting independence in the due course.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in 1992 marking the golden jubilee celebration of Quit India Movement issued a 1 rupee commemorative coin.

Civil Disobedience Movement - 1930

The Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM), also popularly known as Dandi March or Salt Satyagraha was launched by Mahatma Gandhi following the failure of Simon Commission with the objective of 'Complete Independence' from the British rule and to oppose the colonial laws imposed on people. The CDM or Dandi march was started by Gandhiji on March 12, 1930 along with 80 of his trusted followers from Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi in Gujarat. An estimated 90,000 people were arrest in this anti-imperialist struggle. Gandhiji too was arrested in January 1932 along with his fellow companions.

Non-Cooperation Movement - 1920

The Non-Cooperation Movement (NCM) was formally launched on August 1, 1920 by Mahatma Gandhi as an opposition to the Rowlatt Act of 1919, and the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of April 13, 1919 with the objective of 'Swaraj' or Self-Governance and securing complete independence from the British. Through the 'Non-Cooperation Movement' which was a non-violent struggle, Gandhiji appealed to the people to boycott British-made clothing, goods and other services and promote Khadi. However, the movement was suspended on February 1922 following a violent incident at Chauri Chaura.

Khilafat Agitation -1919

The Khilafat Agitation or Khilafat Movement was launched in 1919 under the guidance of Mahatma Gandhi against the dismemberment of the Ottoman Empire post-World War I and attempts to abolish the Ottoman Caliphate by the British. Demanding the restoration of Caliphate in Turkey, the Central Khilafat Committee organised an all-India Hartal on August 1, 2020 under the leadership of Gandhiji. Gandhi also returned the 'Kaiser-i-Hind' medal awarded to him for his services in the war to the British which enhanced his stature as a national and mass leader in no time.

Champaran Satyagraha -1917

The Champaran Satyagraha of 1917 was the first mass-based movement led by Mahatma Gandhi following his return to India from South Africa to protest against gross injustice and erroneous policies imposed on the farmers, particularly indigo cultivators by the landlords under British rule. The farmers of Champaran in Bihar were protesting against the forced indigo farming without payment. It marks an important event in the history of India's freedom struggle that inspired several movements in leading to Indian independence.
SUMMIT TWP., MI  A car wash caught fire Wednesday night just outside of Jackson.

Summit Township Fire Department responded to Oasis Car Wash, 1709 W. Michigan Ave., at 8:27 p.m., Sept. 30, Capt. Matt Shaw said.

The extent of damage to the building cant be released at this time because the cause of the fire is under investigation, Shaw said.

Jackson Fire Department, Blackman-Leoni Department of Public Safety, Spring Arbor Township Fire Department and Parma-Sandstone Fire Department assisted at the fire. Crews left the scene around 12:30 a.m., Oct. 1.

Read more from MLive:

Hedgehog, dog saved during Grass Lake house fire

Try a costume parade, scavenger hunt for Halloween this year, Jackson health officials say

Renters now included in Jackson program helping residents with unpaid water bills

Court referee, attorney vying for12th District Court judge seat

Man fatally stabbed after fight in Jackson County, police say
STORY LINK Pound to Canadian Dollar (GBP/CAD) Exchange Rate Falls as EU Launches Legal Action against UK

GBP/CAD Exchange Rate Sinks as UK-EU Relations Take a Turn for the Worst

Canadian Dollar (CAD) Edges Higher as Canadian Manufacturing PMI Beats Forecasts

GBP/CAD Outlook: Could Souring UK-EU Relations Drag Down Sterling?

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The Pound to Canadian Dollar (GBP/CAD) exchange rate fell by -0.2% today. The pairing is trading around CA$1.714 following news that the European Union would be taking legal action against Prime Minister Boris Johnsons Government against the controversial Brexit Internal Market Bill.Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, said:We had invited our British friends to remove the problematic parts of their draft internal market bill by the end of September.This draft bill is, by its very nature, a breach of the obligation of good faith laid down in the withdrawal agreement. Moreover, if adopted as is, it will be in full contradiction to the protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland.As a result, GBP investors are concerned that souring relations between the UK and the EU could jeopardise as post-Brexit trade agreement.In UK economic data, today saw the publication of the latest UK Manufacturing PMI for September. The figure fell below forecasts but remained relatively strong at 54.1.Rob Dobson, a director at IHS Markit, commented:While the sector is still making positive strides, keep in mind that there remain considerable challenges ahead. This is especially true for the labour market, which saw further job losses and redundancies in September.The Canadian Dollar (CAD) edged higher today following the release of the Canadian Manufacturing PMI for September. Canadas manufacturing beat forecasts last month, rising from 55.1 to 56.Shreeya Patel, the Economist at IHS Markit, commented on the data:Overall, the health of the Canadian manufacturing sector continued to strengthen in September, as has been the case throughout the third quarter. Conditions improved at the fastest pace in over two years, helped by a solid upturn in manufacturing sales at both domestic and foreign clients.The Loonie also benefited from news that the US would now more than likely go ahead with stimulus measures to bolster the American economy.Analysts at Reuters said:U.S. stock index futures rose after the Trump administration said it had proposed a new coronavirus fiscal aid package to House of Representatives Democrats worth more than $1.5 trillion.However, oil prices have dipped, limiting some of the commodity-correlated Canadian Dollars gains today.The Canadian Dollar (CAD) will remain sensitive to global risk sentiment this week. With the Canadian economy heavily reliant on trade, any signs of a slowing economy  in America or in China  then the Loonie would suffer.The GBP/CAD exchange rate will remain sensitive to Brexit developments into the weekend. Again, any further signs that UK-EU relations could be souring would prove GBP-negative.

International Money Transfer? Ask our resident FX expert a money transfer question or try John's new, free, no-obligation personal service! ,where he helps every step of the way, ensuring you get the best exchange rates on your currency requirements.

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One of the men acquitted of murdering former bikie boss Mick Hawi has been refused bail on unrelated gun charges, after a court heard allegations he attempted to organise a drive-by shooting from jail and threatened to "put holes in" the lead officer investigating him.

Yusuf Nazlioglu, 39, was found not guilty in the NSW Supreme Court last month of fatally shooting Mr Hawi, the former national president of the Comancheros, who was killed in his car outside a gym in February 2018.

Yusuf Nazlioglu (centre) has been refused bail. Credit:Seven News

Mr Nazlioglu is due to face trial in the NSW District Court next year on three gun possession charges, after police investigating Mr Hawi's murder discovered a loaded .22-calibre revolver in an air duct in the secure car park of the Toaster apartments in Circular Quay, where Mr Nazlioglu lived.

On Thursday, a Crown prosecutor told the court that Mr Nazlioglu usually parked "directly beneath" where the gun was found, and his DNA was found on three areas of the gun including its barrel and pin. His DNA was also discovered on a tissue wrapped around the gun, the prosecutor said.
Olema Oncology, a San Francisco, CA-based clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, development and commercialization of targeted therapies for womens cancers, closed an $85m Series C financing.

The round was led by Vivo Capital with participation from additional new investors, including Avoro Capital Advisors, funds and accounts managed by BlackRock, Deerfield Management Company, and OrbiMed, among other investors. All existing institutional investors  BVF Partners L.P., Logos Capital, Janus Henderson Investors, Cormorant Asset Management, Wellington Management Company, RA Capital Management, Venrock Healthcare Capital Partners, Surveyor Capital (a Citadel company), and Foresite Capital  also participated.

The company intends to use the funds to advance the clinical development of OP-1250, its lead product candidate in breast cancer, and expand ongoing research and development activities. OP-125 is currently being evaluated in a Phase 1/2 clinical trial in patients with recurrent, locally advanced or metastatic estrogen-receptor-positive (ER+), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HER2-) breast cancer whose disease has progressed on endocrine therapy.

Led by Sean P. Bohen, M.D., Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer, and Shane Kovacs, Chief Operating and Financial Officer, Olema is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, development and commercialization of targeted therapies for womens cancers. Its lead product candidate, OP-1250, a complete estrogen receptor (ER) antagonist (CERAN) and a selective ER degrader (SERD), is currently being studied in a Phase 1/2 clinical trial for the treatment of recurrent, metastatic or locally advanced ER-positive (ER+), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HER2-) breast cancer.

The company plans to conduct additional studies evaluating OP-1250 in combination with other targeted breast cancer therapies.

FinSMEs

01/10/2020
The UK left the EU in January, and the clock is running down to the end of transition on December 31. Heres how firms are taking action to ensure theyre best placed to deal with the new trade and customs regulations

THE LAST THING BUSINESS OWNERS NEED NOW IS A FEW SURPRISES

For a London-based company that imports sparkling wines from Germany, Italy and France, Thomson & Scott has had to be proactive about the UKs new start.

Wine imports between countries have always been complicated, says founder and CEO Amanda Thomson.

Weve been ensuring that we are well prepared for any changes that will come into force at the end of transition.

Well-prepared: London-based drinks firm Thomson & Scott produces alcohol-free Noughty

Within the UK, Thomson & Scott supplies Fenwick, Harvey Nichols, Ocado and now Amazon, four years after creating a niche for low-sugar, organic and vegan-certified sparkling wines that have total transparency on the bottle label. Noughty, the companys new alcohol-free sparkling chardonnay, was recently released.

To ensure border systems are fully operational after the transition, the UK Government has put 705 million towards infrastructure, staffing and IT. In light of coronavirus, new border controls will be staggered until July 1, 2021 to give businesses more time to prepare.

Amanda says that acting ahead of the the end of the transition in December is extremely important for her business, especially amid the uncertainty of Covid-19.

She says: From our wineries, we ship to everywhere from New Zealand to South Africa, but UK trade is still the lions share of our business, so its extremely important to us. I would hate for any fellow business owners to have surprises as we approach the deadline, especially in the current climate.

Time to prepare for the future: Thomson & Scott CEO Amanda Thomson says she's ready

By checking the extra tariffs and charges early, weve had time to consider prepare for the future.

Margins in the drinks industry are notoriously tight, but within just a year, weve future-proofed our business by producing an alcohol-free product, which has a slightly less complex margin model.

Were also working on the assumption that bottles may initially take longer to reach us due to new customs declarations, so weve thought ahead to spring next year and decided to bring enough stock into the UK now to store in our bonded warehouse.

THE MORE WE PREPARE FOR THE END OF TRANSITION, THE SMOOTHER IT WILL BE

While the nation put rainbows in their windows and clapped for carers, a bubble factory in the foothills of Snowdonia was busy manufacturing liquid rainbows.

Dr Zigs Extraordinary Bubbles has been making eco-friendly giant bubble kits in North Wales for ten years, and amid the challenges of Covid-19, it has been busy preparing for the end of transition so it can continue to spread the joy further afield.

As a company, we need to be ready, because I want to continue to trade  we have a lovely business and its done really well, says manufacturer and bubbler-in-chief Paola Dyboski-Bryant.

Magical: Welsh company Dr Zigs Extraordinary Bubbles is getting ready for transition

During that first phase of lockdown, the bubbles were a symbol of hope  parents were buying them for children, children were gifting them to grandparents. The interest weve had from all over is huge, shipping to Italy, Germany, Holland, Denmark... Preparation will be key to keeping that going.

From a kitchen-table start-up inspired by Paolas youngest son Ziggy, the company is now about to launch in South Korea, Australia and soon the US.

We have already registered for VAT in France, Italy and Germany, but I would recommend applying sooner rather than later because it can take several months. Its also important to sort an EORI [Economic Operators Registration and Identification] number for exports.

Paola has also had to think about her employees, too, to make sure that they can live and work in the UK after the deadline: They have now all applied for settled status. As a company, its been about encouraging and supporting them through the process.

As a nation, Britain is so cosmopolitan  people come from every corner of the world to call it home and we really value that. Ultimately, we are an international company working in the UK, and we are proud to keep that going.

LOOKING INTO IT NOW WILL SAVE THE PANIC AT THE FINISH LINE

To create its sustainable fashion brand, Meander Apparel sourced the highest-quality fabrics from suppliers all around Europe.

Thats why co-founder Jill Henry is taking positive action to prepare for the end of transition, both for its international supply chain and its customers around the world.

With a supply chain, there are so many moving parts. We have Italian fabrics shipping to factories in Portugal, where we make clothes predominantly for the UK market, but also for America, Greece and Spain.

Sustainable fashion: British firm Meander Apparel sources high quality fabric from Europe

The sooner you know what to expect at the end of transition, the easier you make it on yourself. Theres no panic at the finish line.

Jill launched Meander with her husband, Steve, in 2018, after discovering a gap in the market for premium, performance-based cycle clothing thats stylish enough to wear off the bike.

Popular in the UK and beyond, the clothes have been worn by everyone from Sir Richard Branson to fashion designer Henry Holland, and Meander is keen to keep up that momentum. One of the first and most straightforward ways that we prepared for the deadline was to get an EORI number, which facilitates the exporting of goods, says Jill. It can be done on the Government website, and it takes just a few weeks to come through.

Next, we made sure that we were complying with new garment-labelling regulations, such as adding the country of origin and CE markings, which show that our manufacturers meet EU health and safety requirements.

The business owners will also have to consider documentation they may need for travelling to the EU for trade shows and supplier meetings.

Jill Henry, co-founder of Meander Apparel, knew it made sense to do the paperwork early

Jill says: From my time at larger fashion brands, I know that there could be additional tariffs and duties to send goods ahead. Its about making sure weve got the right paperwork or being prepared to take samples across in person if necessary.

Filled with positivity for the future of Meander, they are excited to open an Edinburgh pop-up store on George Street next month, and say that the UKs new start is filled with opportunities.

Great Britain is highly regarded in the fashion industry, says Jill.

At Meander, we pride ourselves on the things we make in Scotland, such as our knitted accessories, which have a huge appeal to international customers.

As things stand, sending goods to the US and Canada works really well, so if were prepared for the end of transition, theres no reason why we cant still work well with EU nations.
LAS VEGAS, NV / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / Beyond Commerce, Inc. (OTC PINK:BYOC) (the "Company"), a provider of B2B internet marketing analytics, technologies and services, is pleased to announce and welcome Cargill in signing a new agreement with Service 800. Cargill is an American privately-held global food corporation based in Minnetonka, Minnesota, Founded in 1865, it is one of the largest privately-held corporations in the U.S. in terms of revenue.

Service 800 will design programs and provide resources to measure every day customer service. The program methodology goal is to deliver accurate metrics needed to build and measure an effective customer journey map.

Gail Propson, Service 800's Director of Sales and Marketing, commented, "We are very excited to be working with Cargill Incorporated and their Global Customer Engagement Research Program. SERVICE 800 will be conducting phone interviews with their Key customers globally. Our first project will begin in Oct 2020 and we are looking forward to supporting Cargill's long-term objectives in gathering actionable customer insights."

About Cargill

Cargill's 155,000 employees across 70 countries work relentlessly to achieve our purpose of nourishing the world in a safe, responsible and sustainable way. Every day, we connect farmers with markets, customers with ingredients, and people and animals with the food they need to thrive. We combine 155 years of experience with new technologies and insights to serve as a trusted partner for food, agriculture, financial and industrial customers in more than 125 countries. Side-by-side, we are building a stronger, sustainable future for agriculture.

For additional information, please visit: https://www.cargill.com

About Beyond Commerce , Inc .

Beyond Commerce, Inc. (OTC Pink: BYOC) is focused on business combinations of "big data" companies in global B2B internet marketing analytics, technologies and services. The Company's objective is to develop and deploy disruptive strategic software technology that will build on organic growth potential and to exploit cross-selling opportunities. Beyond Commerce plans to offer a cohesive global digital product and services platform to provide clients with a single point of contact for their big data, marketing and related sales initiatives. For additional information, please visit: https://beyondcommerceinc.com and https://www.service800.com.

Twitter: @incbyoc

Facebook: fb.me/incbyoc

Forward-Looking Statements

This press 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, which are subject to the "safe harbor" created by those sections for such statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements, which are often indicated by terms such as "anticipate," "believe," "could," "design," "estimate," "except," "forecast," "goal," "intend," "look forward to," "may," "plan," "potential," "predict," "project," "should," "target," "will," "would," or the negatives or other tense of such terms and other similar expressions intended to identify forward-looking statements and similar expressions. We use forward-looking statements relate to future events or future financial performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels or activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements.

Contact Information:

investors@beyondcommerceinc.com

p702-675-8022

ClearThink

nyc@clearthink.capital

SOURCE: Beyond Commerce, Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/608663/Beyond-Commerces-Service-800-Awarded-Contract-from-Cargill
A major fire broke out at a chemical solvent manufacturing unit in Maharashtra's district in the wee hours of Thursday, a fire brigade official said.

No casualty was reported as the plant, located in Kurkumbh industrial area on Pune-Solapur Road, around 80 km from the district headquarters, was closed at the time of the incident, he said.

Twelve workers and two dogs were rescued from the unit, and some vehicles were also moved out of the plant to safety, fire officer Sudhir Khandekar said.

"The fire broke out at Shiv Shakti Oxalate Pvt Ltd, located in the Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) area in Kurkumbh, around 1.30 am. Drums containing mixed solvent were kept at the plant and after the blaze they started exploding," the official said.

Eight to nine water tankers were rushed to the spot and fire personnel took about four-and-a-half hours to douse the flames, he said.

"No one was injured in the incident. Cooling operation is currently going on," the official said, adding that the cause of the fire is not yet known.

Collector Rajesh Deshmukh said he has sought a report on the incident from local authorities.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Photo: The Canadian Press Kristinn Hrafnsson editor in chief of Wikileaks gives a statement outside the Old Bailey in London, Thursday, Oct. 1, 2020, as the Julian Assange extradition hearing to the US ended, with a result expected later in the year. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange will likely spend the rest of 2020 inside a British prison cell before finding out whether he can be sent to the United States to face espionage charges, the judge in his extradition hearing said Thursday.

After hearing nearly four weeks of evidence at London's Old Bailey courthouse, District Judge Vanessa Baraitser said she would deliver her decision on whether to grant a U.S. extradition request for Assange at 10 a.m. on Jan. 4. Assange is fighting extradition.

The judge's ruling wont necessarily end the proceedings. Whichever side loses is expected to appeal. Theres also the possibility of a change in U.S. policy should Joe Biden defeat President Donald Trump in the Nov. 3 U.S. presidential election.

Unless any further application for bail is made, and between now and the 4th of January, you will remain in custody for the same reasons as have been given to you before, Baraitser told Assange, who was sitting behind a security screen at the back of the hearing courtroom.

The judge previously denied Assange bail over fears he is a flight risk. Assange jumped bail in 2012 when he sought asylum at the Ecuadorian Embassy in London, where he stayed for seven years before being evicted and arrested. He has been in custody at Belmarsh prison in London since April 2019 and is expected to appear in court via video link every 28 days between now and the Jan. 4 ruling.

U.S. prosecutors have indicted the 49-year-old Assange on 17 espionage charges and one charge of computer misuse over WikiLeaks publication of secret American military documents a decade ago largely relating to the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Following the adjournment on Thursday, Stella Moris, Assange's fiancee and the mother of his two young children, said, Julian and I would like to thank everyone for the kindness that has been shown over the past few weeks.

Its a fight for Julians life, a fight for press freedom and a fight for the truth, Moris said outside the court.

Now that lawyers have finished presenting evidence, Assange's defence team has asked for another four weeks to submit its closing argument. That will be followed two weeks later by the closing argument of the lawyers prosecuting on behalf of the U.S. government.

The judge has an abundance of evidence to trawl through in a hearing that was delayed by the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. Except for an early virus exposure scare and occasional outbursts from the usually face-masked Assange, the hearing proceeded smoothly.

The charges against Assange carry a maximum sentence of 175 years in prison. Lawyers acting on behalf of the U.S. government say Assange committed serious crimes that put peoples lives in danger, allegations his fiancee disputed.

Under oath, the prosecution concedes that it has no evidence that a single person has ever come to any physical harm because of these publications, Moris said. Let me repeat that: there is no evidence that a single person has ever come to any physical harm because of these publications.

Assanges defence team argued he is entitled to First Amendment protections for the publication of leaked documents that exposed U.S. military wrongdoing and that the extradition request was politically motivated.

The London court heard from an array of witnesses, who pronounced on issues of huge importance and substance, such as the freedom of the press and government-sanctioned torture.

Julian Assanges actions, which have been characterized as criminal, are actions that expose power to sunlight," renowned U.S. linguist and scholar Noam Chomsky said.

Other witnesses relayed more shadowy  and sometimes comic  matters of intrigue during his time at WikiLeaks and at the Ecuadorian Embassy,

According to one witness, Assange binge-watched the suicide of the former Bosnian Croat general, Slobodan Praljak, at a U.N. court three years ago.

Defence lawyers said Assange was suffering from wide-ranging mental health issues, including suicidal tendencies, that could be exacerbated if he is placed in inhospitable prison conditions in the U.S. They said Assanges mental health deteriorated while he took asylum inside the embassy and that he was diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder.

His legal team argued that Assange would very likely face solitary confinement in the U.S. immediately that would put him at a heightened risk of suicide. They also said that if convicted, Assange would most likely be sent to the notorious ADX Supermax prison in Colorado, a facility labeled by a former warden as a fate worse than death and inhabited by the likes of Unabomber Ted Kaczynski and Mexican drug lord Joaquin El Chapo Guzman.

Lawyers acting on behalf of the U.S. government argued that Assanges mental state was not as poor as described and said he wouldnt be subject to improper conditions before or after any trial.

Assange has attracted the support of high-profile figures, including actress Pamela Anderson and rapper M.I.A. The dissident Chinese contemporary artist Ai Weiwei also staged a silent protest outside the court.

Daniel Ellsberg, perhaps the most famous whistleblower in living memory, argued that they had very comparable political opinions.

The 89-year-old, widely credited for helping to bring about an end to the Vietnam War through his leaking of the so-called Pentagon Papers in 1971, said the American public needed urgently to know what was being done routinely in their name, and there was no other way for them to learn it than by unauthorized disclosure.

There are clear echoes between Assange and Ellsberg, who leaked over 7,000 pages of classified documents to the press, including The New York Times and The Washington Post. He was subsequently put on trial on 12 charges in connection with violations of the Espionage Act, which were punishable by up to 115 years in prison. The charges were dismissed in 1973 because of government misconduct against him.

Assange will be hoping that developments within the U.S. government over the coming weeks will lead to a similar outcome for him  before any judgment from the London court.
JOHNSTOWN  Former Vice President Joe Biden, the Democratic Partys presidential nominee, compared his working-class childhood in Scranton and the days when he was known as possibly the poorest member of the U.S. Senate to the policies of President Donald Trump that he believes benefit the wealthiest Americans when speaking at the Johnstown train station on Wednesday night.

Biden made his remarks during a seven-town Build Back Better Express whistle-stop tour through Ohio and Pennsylvania that started in Cleveland and included stops in Alliance, Ohio; Pittsburgh, Greensburg, New Alexandria and Latrobe.

I think his whole campaign gets down to Park Avenue versus Scranton, Park Avenue versus Johnstown, Biden said.

Biden, who earlier in the day announced he was endorsed by the International Union of Operating Engineers and the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, also offered his support for organized labor. He was introduced by local Service Employees International Union shop steward Brian Smith.

I heard from union members whove gotten a raw deal so many times, and so many more at every stop that Ive made, Biden said, "just hard-working people like all of you, folks who played by the rules, paid their fair share their whole lives, folks who never asked for a single thing to be given to them, just a chance to earn it.

Folks, there couldnt have been a more stark difference from what I saw last night on that debate stage, a self-entitled, self-serving president who thinks everything is about him. He thinks that if he can just yell louder and louder, throws out lie after lie after lie, hell get his way. He thinks youll forget. Well he picked the wrong guy.

Later in the half-hour speech, Biden told the crowd that was socially distanced as part of COVID-19 guidelines, that I promise you this, I see you. I hear you. I respect you. I grew up with you. And the families of those more than 200,000 Americans who have died in this pandemic will be heard and respected by me.

A supporter snaps a cell phone photo during United States Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden's visit to the train station in Johnstown, Pa., Wednesday, Sept.30, 2020.( John Rucosky, jrucosky@tribdem.com)

Biden said the pandemic needs to be gotten under control so we can get our economy working again and everyone get back our lives.

Were a nation in pain right now, so many empty chairs around the dining room table tonight because somebodys been lost to the pandemic, Biden said.

All on the line

Democrats along the tour route offered their support for Biden both at the live stops and when issuing statements throughout the day.

His wife Jill Biden, who grew up in a Philadelphia suburb, and Pennsylvania Lt. Gov. John Fetterman spoke at the Johnstown event.

Empathy, compassion, health care, environment, the union way of life, all the things that Vice President Biden stands for, its all on the line, Fetterman said. The most consequential election of our lives.

Before the event, Todd Rowley, the Democratic Partys nominee in the commonwealths 13th Congressional District, said, "VP Biden recognizes the importance of our working class families here in southwest and central PA and his Build Back Better economic plan is exactly what the city of Johnstown needs to lift up and give hope to its proud citizenry and revitalize a historic Pennsylvania city.

I hope to be a part of those efforts to rebuild Johnstown and communities across our country as the next congressional representative for PA-13.

Just like in 2016, the presidential candidates and their surrogates have paid frequent visits to western Pennsylvania, including Johnstown, so far during this general election cycle.

Bidens visit occurred after Donald Trump Jr. spoke at the Roxbury Bandshell last week.

I think weve learned from the 2016 election that its not just the big city, Johnstown Mayor Frank Janakovic, a Democrat, said. Weve found that the vote has become very important in the rural areas. I think the candidates are taking notice to that, so theyre making sure that theyre just not politicking in the larger cities, but theyre getting out to the suburbs or rural areas where a lot of people live and work.

United States Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden's wife Jill speaks during Biden's visit to the train station in Johnstown, Pa., Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2020. (John Rucosky, jrucosky@tribdem.com)

Janakovic said he encourages Biden and any and all the candidates to visit towns like Johnstown to make sure that were not forgotten in the big picture and that theyre really thinking about and helping and will support cities like Johnstown after the election.

Trump and Democratic nominee, former Sec. of State Hillary Clinton, held campaign events in the city, four years ago.

This time around, both Biden and Trump have spoken in the Pittsburgh region within the past few weeks. Trump also gave speeches at Arnold Palmer Regional Airport and Flight 93 National Memorial. Biden visited Flight 93 and the Shanksville Volunteer Fire Department on Sept. 11

Dave Sutor is a reporter for The Tribune-Democrat. Follow him on Twitter @Dave_Sutor.
Participating in an election will be yet another part of Saskatchewan life made new and unusual by COVID-19 when voters go to the polls on Oct. 26.

Hygiene precautions like mask-wearing and acrylic shields will be part of the in-person voting experience for the provincial election.

'As safe as going to your local grocery store'

"We want everyone to know that we have been working with the chief medical health officer on an ongoing basis to adapt to our processes so that they are as safe as going to your local grocery store," said Michael Boda, chief electoral officer for Elections Saskatchewan.

Elections Saskatchewan expects a huge jump in demand for mail-in voting and has put new procedures for it in place.

"What we want to be able to do is offer voters a choice as to where they feel they should vote," said Boda.

"We want to offer options to those who might feel that they are immunocompromised or that there's a health hazard."

In-person voting

For those who choose to vote in person, a series of precautions have been put in place to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19.

Some of the measures are similar to those practiced in other parts of daily life during the pandemic:

Voters will be required to physically-distance by staying two metres apart.

Elections Saskatchewan is "strongly" recommending mask use.

Hand sanitizer will be available at all polls .

Anyone who is feeling unwell is being told to stay home.

Voters will be provided with single-use pencils and surfaces in the polls will be disinfected throughout the day.

More than 5,000 acrylic shields have also been purchased for use at polling stations and more than 400,000 masks have been purchased for voters who don't bring their own.

Elections Saskatchewan said it is also taking steps to protect more than 13,000 election workers.

It said in July it had purchased 400,000 masks for workers, 8,750 litres of hand sanitizer for both election workers and voters, and 8,500 litres of disinfectant.

Story continues

Workers will be separated from voters using "acrylic sneeze guards" where available, it said.

For the first time in a Saskatchewan election, anyone who does not want to handle a physical card can opt to receive their voter card electronically by text or email through the Elections Saskatchewan website.

Voter information cards will include your assigned voting location for Oct. 26. Polls will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. CST.

There will also be five days of advance voting prior to Oct. 26. Again, your recommended voting location will be included on your voter information card. Advance polls are open from noon to 8 p.m. CST.

Voting by mail

Applications to vote by mail can be made online through the Elections Saskatchewan website and will require the applicant to upload a copy of their ID.

The application form can also be sent in by mail by downloading and printing the application form and sending it in.

Anyone who does not have access to a printer can request a mailed copy by calling 1-877-958-8683. The deadline for applications to be received is Oct. 15.

People who are homebound due to a medical condition, a disability or their career can also vote by mail.

A website address has been set up for applications from homebound voters, at homebound.elections.sk.ca.

A service introduced for homebound voters in 2016, in which election workers would bring a ballot and ballot box to the person's home, will not be provided this election due to COVID-19.

Voting in care

Voting will be available in long-term care facilities and hospitals.

Two elections workers will be stationed at a central location to provide voting for the majority of residents or patients, while those who cannot access the central poll will be visited by election workers in their room.

Inmates in remand and correctional facilities will need to vote by mail in 2020.

Elections Canada said a system has also been designed to provide access to the ballot for people who are either quarantined or under self-isolation during the voting period.

It said there are also processes in place for people who are temporarily displaced and that arrangements have been made for members of the armed services to vote by mail.
HARTFORD  Connecticuts electric utilities, lambasted by consumers who sweated through a weeklong power outage in August heat that spoiled food and medicine, would have to meet a wide-ranging criteria of performance benchmarks, including customer satisfaction, under legislation that the House of Representatives approved late Wednesday night.

The bill passed 136-4 after a three-and-a-half-hour debate, and moves to the Senate on Thursday.

Lawmakers said they rewrote the bill after threats from the electric monopolies that Eversource customers would pay $50 extra per month and United Illuminating would charge $18 more. It would also give the state Public Utility Regulatory Authority, which has two active probes into the August response, longer periods of time to investigate proposals for rate increases.

The legislation would allow PURA to issue fines if 10 percent of utility customers were without power for 48 hours. Compensation of up to $250 would go to consumers in the event of outages that extend to 96 hours. Neither penalty would be recoverable through rates, said Rep. David Arconti, D-Danbury, co-chairman of the legislative Energy & Technology Committee.

In addition to the goals and oversight is the assurance of better communications, which seemed to break down massively throughout the state, with local officials complaining that utilities did not coordinate responses with local public works crews that confronted thousands of downed trees and deadly live wires.

Rep. Laura Devlin, R-Fairfield, said while United Illuminating correctly predicted the severity of the storm, the communication with local officials was nonexistent. The issue was there was absolutely no communication, she said. It was outrageous.

This bill will require PURA to adopt a framework for implementing performance-based regulations of our electric distribution companies, Arconti said. Today we are taking control and establishing standards and metrics to measure utility performance on various objectives, such as safety, reliability, equity, customer satisfaction, municipal engagement and resilience. It is simply unacceptable that our electric utilities continue to under-perform and under-deliver for our citizens when they need them the most: before, during and active major storms.

The bill is a strong consumer-friendly bill, said Rep. Charles Ferraro, R-West Haven, ranking member of the committee, who urged support for the bill, called the Take Back Our Grid Act .

Under the bill, residential customers could receive $25 account credits for each day that a service outage occurs for more than 96 consecutive hours after an emergency, and up to $250 for lost food and medication.

After several extreme weather events in 2011, lawmakers forced utilities to engage in infrastructure hardening and tree clearance. But amid rate hikes that left the state with some of the highest monthly costs in the country, UI and Eversource drifted away from storm preparation, lawmakers said.

Simultaneously, utilities consistently increased their rates and profits and created roadblocks for implementing key public policies, Arconti said. It is time to give our regulators the power and direction to take on these monopolies and ensure that positive customer outcomes are driving their performance and not utilities bottom line.

The ultimate goal is to force the utilities to prioritize customer value, he said.

Ferraro and Arconti said that months of negotiations with regulators, consumer representatives and the utilities, with the goal of not increasing rate any further, resulted in the bill.

We were confronted with the perfect storm, where many people and families were suffering from the COVID-19 pandemic, sequestering at home, some of them without jobs, then the utility companies raised the rates on consumers, Ferraro said. It was over-bearing and too difficult for them and then we got his with storm Isaias.

This is a step, said Rep. Vincent Candelora, R-North Branford, whose district has three different electric utilities with varying responses to the August storm. The impact of this legislation we probably wont feel for a year or two. He warned that it is a complicated issue. There are only so many problems we can fix.

Hours before the debate on increasing accountability, Gov. Ned Lamont submitted a request for a presidential disaster declaration in all eight Connecticut counties for damage from Isaias in early August.

Tropical Storm Isaias came through Connecticut fast and created an impact that is taking weeks to repair, Lamont said in a written statement. If approved, this federal declaration will allow many municipalities in our state to become eligible for much-needed cost reimbursements as they continue to fix damaged infrastructure from the storm.

The high winds and heavy rain led to more than 800,000 customer power outages, some of which extended for a week. Roads were blocked and hundreds of utility poles and transformers were damaged.

If Connecticut wins the designation, towns, cities and tribal nations would be allowed to apply for reimbursements totaling 75 percent of their costs through the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The governors request was supported by the states congressional delegation.

kdixon@ctpost.com Twitter: @KenDixonCT
Amanda Holden has reached out to Chrissy Teigen after learning that she has tragically lost her baby.

The BGT star, whose son Theo, was stillborn at seven months pregnant in 2011, took to the comments after Chrissy, 34, bravely shared her sad news.

One follower had written a lovely post which read: 'In Lebanese culture, we believe babies like Jack are angels that God selectively chooses to watch over you. Sending you light.'

'They are angels that God chooses to look after you': Amanda Holden has reached out to Chrissy Teigen after learning she has lost her baby nine years after BGT's star's son was stillborn

Sharing experiences: Amanda shared the loveliest message after a follower had sent his condolences to Chrissy

Amanda, 49, replied: 'This is how I dealt with my loss.'

The actress recently revealed that Theo's death nine years ago changed her as a person, making her realise how fragile life can be.

Amanda who is also a parent to Alexa, 14, Hollie, eight, with husband Chris Hughes has been very open about her tragic loss.

She previously said about Theo: 'I held him in my arms for the first time and that is when I realised that I was still a mummy even though he was fast asleep.'

Tragic: Chrissy announced that she and her husband John Legend have lost their baby on Wednesday, days after she was admitted to the hospital with severe bleeding

Chrissy took to social media on Wednesday to reveal that she and husband John had lost their baby, days after she was admitted to the hospital with severe bleeding.

She shared the heartbreaking news with a lengthy post and series of images, saying their little boy, Jack, has died following complications.

Chrissy wrote: 'We are shocked and in the kind of deep pain you only hear about, the kind of pain we've never felt before. We were never able to stop the bleeding and give our baby the fluids he needed, despite bags and bags of blood transfusions. It just wasn't enough'.

The post included a series of black and white photos taken at the hospital, showing Teigen crying on her bed as well as a shot showing her and John cradling their son.

'We are shocked': The 34-year-old model also penned a lengthy caption explaining the tragedy and expressed her family's grief over the sudden loss

On Monday, Chrissy revealed she was on 'serious bed rest' due to bleeding and said she was 'about halfway through', which is around 20 - 24 weeks. A stillbirth is when a baby is born dead at 24 weeks or later.

She revealed she and John, 41, had begun calling their unborn baby boy, Jack.

She continued: 'We never decide on our babies' names until the last possible moment after they're born, just before we leave the hospital. But we, for some reason, had started to call this little guy in my belly Jack. So he will always be Jack to us. Jack worked so hard to be a part of our little family, and he will be, forever.

'To our Jack - I'm so sorry that the first few moments of your life were met with so many complications, that we couldn't give you the home you needed to survive. We will always love you.

'Thank you to everyone who has been sending us positive energy, thoughts and prayers. We feel all of your love and truly appreciate you. We are so grateful for the life we have, for our wonderful babies Luna and Miles, for all the amazing things weve been able to experience.'

In her words: Teigen also penned a lengthy caption explaining the tragedy and expressing her family's grief

Losing a baby past 24 weeks is a stillbirth rather than a miscarriage. If a baby dies before 24 completed weeks, it's known as a miscarriage or late foetal loss.

Shortly after breaking the tragic news to her followers, Teigen took to her Twitter page to further express her shock from the loss.

'Driving home from the hospital with no baby. How can this be real,' she wrote.

The four photos uploaded to Chrissy's Instagram paint a heartbreaking scene, with one of the pictures showing Chrissy crying and cradling Jack in her arms as John leaned next to them.

She said: 'We never decide on our babies names until the last possible moment after theyre born, just before we leave the hospital. But we, for some reason, had started to call this little guy in my belly Jack'

Another featured Chrissy sobbing as she held her hands to her face and sat at the edge of her hospital bed in nothing but a blanket and a bonnet.

Teigen and Legend had revealed they were expecting their third child together in the music video for John's new single, Wild, in August. It is unclear how far along exactly she was in her pregnancy.

The mother-of-two had been hospitalized at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles on Sunday night after enduring a month of bleeding due to having a weak placenta and had been at the hospital since.

On Monday, she updated fans on her condition in an Instagram post, revealing she had received two blood transfusions and said, 'baby and I are completely fine.'

She said: 'But everyday cant be full of sunshine. On this darkest of days, we will grieve, we will cry our eyes out. But we will hug and love each other harder and get through it'

Disbelief: Shortly after uploading her undeniably sad news to Instagram, Chrissy took to her Twitter page to further express her shock

'Hello from hospital. about to have my second blood transfusion which truly, truly, truly sounds more dramatic than it is,' she said.

'It's an IV, but instead of fluids, the blood of some kind human being out there. Baby and I are completely fine, just missing the little things like walking...cooking...playing with the other buttbutts.'

Teigen had already been on strict bed rest earlier this month but explained she was admitted to the hospital after her bleeding had worsened.

WHAT IS A STILLBIRTH? A stillbirth occurs when a baby is born dead after 24 weeks of pregnancy. If a baby dies before 24 weeks of pregnancy, it is known as a miscarriage. Not all stillbirths can be prevented, however, not smoking or drinking, as well as not sleeping on your back and attending all antenatal appointments can reduce the risk. What are the signs? Signs may include the baby not moving as much as normal. Pregnant women should contact their doctor immediately if they notice a difference to their baby's movement. What are the causes? Stillbirths do not always have an obvious cause but may occur due to complications with the placenta or a birth defect. They are also more likely to occur if women suffer from high blood pressure, diabetes or an infection that affects the baby, such as flu. Stillbirths are more likely to occur if women are having twins or multiple pregnancies, are overweight, smoke, are over 35 or have a pre-existing condition, such as epilepsy. What happens after a stillbirth? If a baby has died, women may wait for their labour to start naturally or they may be induced if their health is at risk. Bereavement support groups are available to parents who have suffered stillbirths. Some find it helpful to name their baby or take pictures with them. Source: NHS Choices Advertisement

Teigen - who is expecting her third child, a baby boy, with husband John Legend - was hospitalized on Sunday evening after a month of bleeding

'I'm about halfway through pregnancy and the blood has been going on for about a month, maybe a little bit less than a month. We're talking about more than your period girls, it's definitely not spotting. A lot of people spot but it's usually fine. Mine was a lot,' she added.

'Everytime I go to the bathroom it would be blood, and honestly just laying there there would be blood.'

Despite the scare, she assured her fans she and her baby were doing well and said the her son was 'healthy, growing stronger than Luna or Miles.'

'He moves so much, so much earlier than they ever did. I'm so excited for him, he's the strongest little dude. He's the strongest coolest dude in the sh***iest house.'

'So his house is like falling apart. It didn't have a good foundation to begin with, he didn't have the strongest chance at the very, very beginning so all we're doing now is trying to make sure he has a lot of fluid around him and I'm resting as much as possible.'

Teigen and Legend, who wed in 2013, are parents to daughter Luna, four, and son Miles, two.

After Chrissy announced the news, some of the couple's closest friends, like Kim Kardashian and Gabrielle Union, voiced their condolences in the comment section.

'Were always here for you and love you guys so much,' wrote Kim Kardashian, 39, who happens to share four children of her own with husband Kanye West, 43.

Gabrielle Union, 47, made sure that Chrissy and John knew that her family would be there for them during this trying time. 'We love you guys so much and we will be here for whatever yall need. Always,' she commented.

Support: After Chrissy announced the news, some of the couple's closest friends, like Kim Kardashian and Gabrielle Union, voiced their condolences in the comment section

Take away the pain: Jesse Tyler Ferguson, who just became a dad for the first time with husband of seven-years Justin Mikita, 35, said that he wish he could 'take away [Chrissy's] heartbreak'

Paris Hilton, who recently opened up about her own pregnancy plans, said that her 'heart breaks for [Chrissy] and John. 'I am so sorry for your loss. Sending you and your family so much love. Love you beautiful,' wrote the 39-year-old heiress.

Hailey Bieber expressed sympathy for John and Chrissy's unfortunate situation in Chrissy's Instagram comment section. The 23-year-old model, who is married to Justin Bieber, wrote: 'Im so so sorry. Thinking of you and John, praying for you guys and sending you so much love during this time.'

Channing Tatum let the couple know that he is 'sending so much love to [them] right now,' while Jersey Shore star Snooki informed Chrissy that she is 'praying for [her] and [her] beautiful family.'

Jesse Tyler Ferguson, who just became a dad for the first time with husband of seven-years Justin Mikita, 35, said that he wish he could 'take away [Chrissy's] heartbreak.'
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Conductor Yannick Nezet-Seguin with the Philadelphia Orchestra at the Mann Center in Sept., 2020, recording for the orchestra's 2020 online opening night gala. Read more

It seems fair to say that few of us over the years have been able to wash the dinner dishes at 6:45 p.m. and make it to our seats for opening night of the orchestra well before 7.

But its a different world now for the Philadelphia Orchestra and its audience, and thats where Wednesday nights opening of the groups 121st season found us.

Its no surprise that the program was entirely virtual. What was striking, however, was how superbly the orchestra pulled off the 80-minute online presentation, musically and logistically.

And how poignantly. These performances, captured over two days last week at the Mann Center, ended with the musicians rising and taking bows to the stony silence of an empty house. The act was both moving and a bit disturbing, a pantomime on the challenges of making a human connection in the COVID-19 era.

This years opener, though, did come with enormous human presence, even if it was largely invisible. Wednesday nights stream attracted 1,070 viewers and a gross fund-raising haul of $470,000. (The show remains viewable for $50 via the orchestras website through Oct. 7 at 11 p.m.)

The virtual concert marked the first time weve heard the entire ensemble since March, and even this concert didnt feature the orchestra at full force. The configuration changed with the piece.

This will be my third collaboration with the Philadelphia Orchestra, said Steve Martin to camera, which means during quarantine the orchestra has lost its mind.

On banjo, the comedian played Rare Bird Alert, a snappy piece whose orchestrations by tuba player Carol Jantsch came speckled with individual players doing bird calls  or, more accurately, bird calls. Oboist Peter Smith emulated a double-reeded canary (noiseum obnoxious) by blowing through his own double reed. Conductor Yannick Nezet-Seguin leveraged his national origin with the sound of a Canadian goose (goofus canadiensis).

Martins appearance electronically married distant forces, with the orchestra at the Mann and him strumming from some remote location. Billie Jean King, as host, also popped in from parts unknown. But for the most part, it was the orchestra on stage at the Mann Center performing at long last, Prometheus unbound.

This is the start of a series of about a dozen streamed concerts planned for between now and mid-December, and the format is, if not quite live, close to it. You could tell by tracking an on-stage digital clock during a lithe interpretation of Mozarts Symphony No. 29 that, unless time now travels backward, what you were seeing wasnt a single take from beginning to end, but involved an occasional patch from another performance.

The scale of editing didnt approach that of a professional recording, orchestra artistic planning vice president Jeremy Rothman told me. We wanted to give people the sense that they were hearing the orchestra nearly live, he said.

In fact, what was wonderful about the production by a collaborative team (Jim Cotter was executive producer) is that it conveyed that live feeling, but with a lot of extras that you dont get live in the concert hall. Shots of players were smartly chosen, often moving apace with the music. In the most positive sense, the online medium falls away and you really can focus on the music.

Valerie Colemans Seven OClock Shout, previously presented online in an engineered version, was performed for the first time with the orchestra assembled in person. It came across here as even more of a knockout than before. The piece celebrates front-line pandemic workers, and with the musicians on stage wearing black masks and playing from behind acrylic screens, it had special resonance.

The power, though, comes from the music and Colemans deft way with emotion, from the pastoral awakening of the opening, to the energetic hope of the middle section, and on to a proud final flourish. Though just months old, the work sounds like an American classic.

Soprano Angel Blue joined the orchestra for Timor di me?...Damor sullali rosee from Verdis Il trovatore. Her voice has both a sparkling purity and reserves of soaring emotion.

The excerpt and other pieces on the program were also a good chance to survey a changing ensemble. Horn player Christopher Dwyer is new this season, while French oboist Philippe Tondre has yet to arrive. The orchestras principal oboist, signed in February, has been thwarted by coronavirus-related immigration restrictions.

Popular pianist Lang Lang was on hand, and there was something in his appearance that captured the spirit of this opening concert. He had been slated to be here for opening night in Verizon Hall. As it was, he sent in his performance from China, an excerpt from Bachs Goldberg Variations.

He chose the 30th variation, the quodlibet, which he explained the Bach family used as a kind of family reunion song, and I cant wait to return to Philadelphia and to have a beautiful reunion time with my second home in America.

The concept of reunion hovered nearby all evening. Theres a long way to go before the orchestra and its audience are truly back together. But this effort, beautifully executed as it was, felt like victory already.

The Philadelphia Orchestras 2020 opening night concert is available at philorch.org through Oct. 7 at 11 p.m. Tickets are $50.
NEW YORK, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Bernstein Liebhard, a nationally acclaimed investor rights law firm, reminds investors of the deadline to file a lead plaintiff motion in a securities class action that has been filed on behalf of investors that purchased or acquired the securities of American Electric Power Company, Inc. ("AEP" or the "Company") (NYSE: AEP) between November 2, 2016 and July 24, 2020 (the "Class Period"). The lawsuit filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Ohio alleges violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

If you purchased AEP common stock, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit AEP Shareholder Lawsuit or contact Matthew E. Guarnero toll free at (877) 779-1414 or [email protected].

The complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) the Company covertly participated in "the largest public corruption case in Ohio history"; (2) the Company secretly funneled substantial funds to Ohio political organizations and politicians to bribe politicians to pass Ohio House Bill 6, which benefited the Company and its coal-fired generation assets; (3) the Company partially funded a massive, misleading advertising campaign in support of HB6 and in opposition to a ballot initiative to repeal HB6 by passing substantial sums through a web of dark money entities and front companies in order to conceal the Company's involvement; (4) the Company aided in subverting a citizens' ballot initiative to repeal HB6; (5) as a result of the foregoing, defendants' Class Period statements regarding the Company's regulatory and legislative efforts were materially false and misleading; (6) as a result of the foregoing, the Company would face increased scrutiny; (7) the Company was subject to undisclosed risk of reputational, legal and financial harm; (8) the bribery scheme would jeopardize the benefits the Company sought by HB6; (9) contrary to the Company's repeated public statements regarding a move to clean energy, it sought a dirty energy bailout; (10) contrary to the Company's repeated public statements regarding protection of its customers' interests, the Company sought an extra and state-mandated surcharge on its customers' bills; and (11) as a result of the foregoing, defendants' statements about AEP's business, operations, and prospects were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times.

On July 25, 2020, the Columbus Dispatch published an article entitled "Columbus utility giant AEP funded dark money spending in HB 6 campaign" which reported on the Company's actions in connection with the growing scandal.

On this news, AEP shares fell $4.79 per share, or over 5%, to close at $83.26 per share on July 27, 2020, the next trading day, on unusually heavy trading volume, damaging investors.

If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than October 19, 2020. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff. If you choose to take no action, you may remain an absent class member.

If you purchased AEP common stock, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit https://www.bernlieb.com/cases/americanelectricpowercompanyinc-aep-shareholder-class-action-lawsuit-stock-fraud-293/apply or contact Matthew E. Guarnero toll free at (877) 779-1414 or [email protected].

Since 1993, Bernstein Liebhard LLP has recovered over $3.5 billion for its clients. In addition to representing individual investors, the Firm has been retained by some of the largest public and private pension funds in the country to monitor their assets and pursue litigation on their behalf. As a result of its success litigating hundreds of lawsuits and class actions, the Firm has been named to The National Law Journal's "Plaintiffs' Hot List" thirteen times and listed in The Legal 500 for ten consecutive years.

ATTORNEY ADVERTISING.  2020 Bernstein Liebhard LLP. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Bernstein Liebhard LLP, 10 East 40th Street, New York, New York 10016, (212) 779-1414. The lawyer responsible for this advertisement in the State of Connecticut is Michael S. Bigin. Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

Contact Information

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Bernstein Liebhard LLP

https://www.bernlieb.com

(877) 779-1414

[email protected]

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BISHKEK -- A Kyrgyz political party claims that one of its activists has been killed days before the parliamentary elections scheduled for October 4.



The opposition Respublika (Republic) party issued a statement on October 1 saying an activist and member of its election campaign in the southern Osh region, Zamir Ormon Uulu, was stabbed to death by a supporter of another unspecified political party.



We are concerned over law enforcement's decision to describe the killing as just a domestic crime We would like to remind our opponents that there is nothing more precious than a human life. An deputy's mandate is not worth a single life," the statement said, adding that Respublikas activists have been under "moral and physical pressure" across the country as the elections near.



Media reports and social networks said earlier that active members of two political parties brawled in the Osh region's Ozgon district on September 29, with one activist stabbed to death.



A spokesman for the Osh regional police, Jenish Ashirbaev, told RFE/RL on October 1 that the deadly incident had nothing to do with the elections.



According to Ashirbaev, the man suspected in the killing was arrested and has no affiliation with any political party.



Sixteen political parties have been registered for the October 4 vote.



Kyrgyzstan's unicameral parliament, the Jogorku Kenesh (Supreme Council), consists of 120 seats.



Pro-government parties, including Birimdik (Unity), Mekenim Kyrgyzstan (My Homeland Kyrgyzstan), and Kyrgyzstan, as well as the opposition Ata-Meken (Fatherland) party are widely expected to gain seats.



No party is allowed to hold more than 65 seats in the Supreme Council.
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Thu, October 1, 2020 15:48 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c487ae6a 1 Lifestyle Cottonink,Cottonink-Mini,sustainable-fashion,Tencel,eco-friendly,biodegradable Free

Indonesian fashion brand Cottonink has launched its first sustainable collection in collaboration with Tencel, a fiber brand of Lenzing, which is based in Austria.

Called Pastel Whimsical, the collection offers casual looks in bright tones and unique patterns. It consists of a total of 10 models; seven for Cottonink and three for the brands fashion line for children, Cottonink Mini.

The collections pieces are biodegradable and environmentally friendly. They are made out of Tencel fiber, which is derived from wood pulp from sustainably-managed industrial forests. The fiber is processed in a closed-loop production scheme that transforms pulp into cellulose fiber by optimizing sources and reprocessing the remaining waste into energy for production.

Cottonink founders Carline Darjanto and Ria Sarwono said in a statement that sustainable fashion had become one of their commitments to encourage the public to preserve the environment and the planet. They added that the fabric was suited to people living in tropical countries as it was comfortable and breathable.

Mariam Tania, Southeast Asia and Oceania marketing and branding manager for Lenzing Group, said sustainable fashion had become a trend in modern society. Were pleased and enthusiastic to collaborate with Cottonink, said Tania. We can pave the way to the fashion industrys greener future and fulfill peoples demands for fashion products that are good for themselves and the planet.

The collection is available online, with prices ranging from Rp 279,000 (US$18.81) to Rp 399,000 for Cottonink and from Rp 189,000 to Rp 229,000 for Cottonink Mini.

Established in 2008, Cottonink aims to provide high quality, versatile fashion products with a twist. Along with its online platform, the brand has expanded to the offline market by opening outlets in Jakarta shopping malls, including Plaza Senayan, Senayan City and Pondok Indah Mall 2. (wir/wng)
A Hamilton residential care facility owned by the Martino family has been placed in receivership and will soon be put up for sale.

A numbered company that operates Emerald Lodge, which houses people with disabilities and low incomes, had defaulted on mortgage payments for three out of the past four months, according to an affidavit filed in court by the companys principal lender, Alterna Savings and Credit Union.

The company is owned by a member of the Martino families, who are associated with Ontarios largest-ever bankruptcy of long-term-care homes.

The affidavit states the company had piled up unpaid Hamilton property taxes along with payroll deductions that hadnt been made to the federal government.

Neighbours in the area of Emerald Lodge, located at 83-85 Emerald Street South near Main Street and Victoria Avenue have long complained about the condition of the property and behaviour of residents.

The affidavit also suggests all of the other eight Martino retirement homes and residential care facilities in Hamilton are looking into the possibility of either a bulk sale or bankruptcy protection under the Companies Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA), including the Rosslyn Retirement Residence, which had its licence to operate revoked following a horrific COVID-19 outbreak in May that left 16 people dead and sent more than 60 residents to hospital.

A spokesperson for the Martinos confirmed to The Spectator that all of the families care homes in and outside Hamilton are being sold in an orderly fashion to several buyers to be completed this year.

I dont want people panicking to think theres going to be an interruption of service, said Robert Brown, the lawyer representing the Martinos and their properties. There wont be.

The purchasers of the properties are all at arms length from the Martinos and none of the families other care homes are in receivership, Brown added.

The receivership application for Emerald Lodge was made Friday and Grant Thornton LLP took over operation of the home on Monday.

A representative of Grant Thornton said residents of the home should not be affected by the change in management.

Thats the intent, said Grant Thorntons Bruce Bando, who is overseeing the receivership. Its got nothing to do with them really.

Bando said the sale process is still in its early stages.

It would be a process that would be public, said Bando. Our mandate is not to conduct an investigation at this time, its more to realize on the assets of (the company) and to maximize the amount of return that we can give to Alterna.

A spokesperson for the City of Hamilton said the city wasnt aware of the receivership or possible sale of Emerald Lodge.

The court affidavit lists Stefanie Martino as the sole owner, director and officer of 1140402 Ontario Inc., the company that operates Emerald Lodge.

Stefanie Martino is the daughter of Aldo Martino and niece of the late John Martino. The Martino brothers previously owned the Royal Crest Lifecare chain of care homes until it collapsed into bankruptcy in 2003, leaving Ontario taxpayers on the hook for $18 million.

Hamilton taxpayers have provided nearly $4 million since 2017 to five homes in the city operated by the Martinos, including $1.05 million up to the end of April to subsidize spaces in Emerald Lodge.

All nine of the Martino-related retirement homes and residential care facilities in Hamilton are either now subject to orders to comply by public health or the governing body of Ontario retirement homes, had their licences to operate revoked or suspended, or have been cited for rules violations this year.

The Martinos are appealing the revocation of their licence for the Rosslyn home. New owners of the homes would be responsible for obtaining their own operating licences.

A court affidavit filed by Umair Saleem, a senior commercial account manager with Alterna, details the growing concerns the lender began having with the Martino company.

Alterna provided a $2.2 million mortgage to Emerald Lodge in September 2019 that required monthly payments of about $15,000 that were supposed to be made on the 15th of each month.

According to Saleems affidavit, Emerald Lodge defaulted on its payments for June, August and September.

In July, Saleem stated, there were insufficient funds in the Emerald Lodge account when the pre-authorized debit was made on July 15. The system was set up in such a way that if the attempt on the 15th of the month wasnt successful, a debit transaction for the payment would be attempted five days later and on July 20, Alterna obtained the mortgage payment.

According to Saleems affidavit, a representative of Emerald Lodge contacted Alterna the following day saying the mortgage withdrawal had left Emerald Lodge with insufficient funds to pay its employees. Could you please arrange for the immediate return of the funds, in order that I can cover payroll, the company representative requested.

Alterna discovered other disturbing problems at Emerald Lodge. As of July 31, the company had more than $17,000 in unpaid property taxes and nearly $33,000 in payroll deductions that hadnt been remitted to the Canada Revenue Agency.

Alterna also learned Emerald Lodge had borrowed $450,000 from another lender, contrary to the mortgage agreement and without the knowledge or approval of Alterna.

The lender discovered the Emerald Lodge company, along with the other Martino-related homes, was being managed by a company called North American Living Centres (NALC), which has been associated with the Martino families for about two decades.

Alterna was not made aware of the involvement, or for that matter the existence of NALC, at the time that the loan documents were executed, Saleem stated in his affidavit.

After making further inquiries, Alterna learned NALC had signed a letter of intent in July to sell the Martino-related homes but the deal did not go through.

In August, Alterna found out NALC was considering two options  list the Martino properties for sale with a realtor, or seek bankruptcy protection for the companies, including Emerald Lodge, through the CCAA.

According to Saleems affidavit, the list of Martino-related properties that were contemplating bankruptcy protection or a group sale include the companies that operate Emerald Lodge, Rosslyn Retirement Residence, Montgomery Retirement Home, Northview Seniors Residence, Cathmar Manor, Victoria Manor I and II, Dundas Retirement Place, Greycliff Manor in Niagara Falls, and Sheridan Lodge in Brantford. It also includes Edgemount Manor, which has been closed since September 2019 due to a fire.

Alterna objected to the plan and proceeded with an application to have the Emerald Lodge company placed in receivership.

Alterna has lost confidence in management, Saleem stated in his affidavit.
Two former health ministers from Peru and Argentina detailed the socioeconomic and political contexts that have led to the pandemics disastrous impact on their respective countriesamong the worst affected in Latin Americain a webinar on Wednesday hosted by the University of Miami Institute for Advanced Study of the Americas.

Dr. Patricia Garcia and Dr. Adolfo Rubinstein, former health ministers of Peru and Argentina, respectively, both emphasized the preexisting social and health inequities, political instability, extensive informal sector, and fragmented systems that have amplified the dire situation in COVID-19 In the Americas: Countries and Context (Argentina and Peru). The virtual seminar was moderated by Felicia Knaul, director of the institute.

Theres still so much that we dont know about the situation with COVID-19, but we have to learn from thisthis is neither the first, nor the last pandemicand hope that our analysis and understanding serves as a catalyst for much needed change in Latin America, said Garcia, who served as Peruvian health minister from July 2016 to September 2017. We have suffered so much owing to the contextual conditionsand these are the hardest to change.

Peru conducted a large number of rapid tests1.5 millionat the onset of the pandemic, but the implementation was chaotic, she said. Everyone wanted to be tested, regardless of symptoms, and the testing was done everywhere with little understanding provided of the meaning of the results, which led to a false sense of security.

People would say lets take a test and then well go and visit our relatives or have a party,  Garcia said. She cited the official figure of 32,000 for the number who have died from COVID-19 but suggested the true figure was north of 70,000.

In the case of Argentina, Rubinstein cited factors that have prompted the accelerated spread of the virus and its devastating impact that include social behaviorsas Latinos we are a very touchy societythe high proportion of informal non-salaried work, and the lack of governmental resources and revenues to help poor people, workers, and companies.

In his presentation, History of a Failure, Rubinstein noted that after almost seven months of the worlds longest quarantineat least on paper, Argentina has suffered economic collapse, increased unemployment, poverty, and social fatigue. The former health minister pointed to estimates indicating that 25 percent to 45 percent of Argentine children and youth have or will drop out of school as a result of the situation.

The government underestimated the impactthey didnt even think the pandemic would arriveand there were serious flaws in preparation and prevention, Rubenstein said. And then a strict quarantine seemed to convince them that it was controlling the situation, but they later realized the failure of this measure as the only instrument to deal with the pandemic.

According to Rubinstein, the economic desperation of the poorest socioeconomic neighborhoods in the capital Buenos Aires had prompted many to ignore or abandon the health precautions that were put in place.

Argentina ranks 31st in global population and 14th in COVID-19 related mortality. The country has registered 664,799 cases of the virus and 14,376 deaths, according to Worldometer, a website that provides real-time statistics.

Latin America continues to be hard hit by the coronavirus pandemic, and although Mexico and Brazil have had a large number of cases, Peru and Argentina have emerged as having a troubling number of outbreaks and deaths.

Knaul, a health economist and expert on Latin American health systems, praised both speakers for their comprehensive and insightful presentations.

This is an important opportunity to be able to analyze the suffering in these two countries, both with such interesting political trajectories, and that helps to provide a regional perspective, Knaul said.
(LJP) chief on Wednesday asked his party members and supporters to be prepared to fight in every situation and told them that it is not possible for anyone to suppress, reduce or erase the existence of the party.

"Papa at every party meeting and rally told us: Country first, the party later and self at the last. We will take a decision in the interest of the party. The party is like our mother and we have to strengthen it. If anyone thinks that he can suppress, reduce or erase the existence of the party, then it is not possible," Paswan told supporters and members of the LJP at his residence here.

"No one here can stop LJP; no party in this country. Be prepared to fight in every situation," he added.

The supporters and members in unison said, "We will accept whatever decision you take. We are ready to do everything for the party."

A confusion seems to exist in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) over seat-sharing. While the BJP had earlier said that it will fight the under the leadership of Janata Dal (United) leader and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, the (LJP), another NDA ally, has been demanding a larger number of seats.

BJP leader Bhupender Yadav on Wednesday said that BJP, JDU and (LJP) will fight the Bihar election together under the leadership of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

Bihar has 243 Assembly seats and will be held in three phases--October 28, November 3, and 7--and the counting of votes will take place on November 10.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The tensions between the city of Toronto and residents of homeless encampments that have increasingly sprung up during COVID-19 were laid bare in a virtual courtroom on Thursday.

The hearing was for an injunction, which  if granted by Judge Paul Schabas  would stop the city from dismantling encampments in public parks during the COVID-19 pandemic.

An injunction would override the citys ability to issue trespass notices under its parks bylaw to encampment residents. As it stands, the bylaw prohibits camping in municipal parks.

The city is asking for the injunction request to be dismissed, claiming that granting it could lead to a drastic increase in the number of encampments across city parks.

No decision was delivered Thursday, with Schabas noting his decision may take a few weeks.

The applicants in the case  former and current encampment residents, the Toronto Overdose Prevention Society and the Ontario Coalition Against Poverty  argue that involuntarily displacing encampment residents puts them at risk of psychological and physical harm, as well as increased risk of COVID-19.

The citys shelter system has not proven to be a safe alternative in terms of risk of exposure, the applicants said in court documents.

As of Thursday afternoon, five cases of COVID-19 were reported in shelters across Toronto.

The city pushed back against the idea that its shelters are unsafe, arguing that more than 80 per cent of confirmed COVID-19 cases among shelter residents were in April and May. In its view, it took extraordinary measures to reduce the risk of COVID-19 in the shelter system.

While lawyers for the applicants acknowledged the citys efforts in recent months, they also presented other arguments for allowing encampments to stay during the pandemic.

Encampment setups alleviate stress and uncertainty for homeless individuals, they argued in court materials and during Thursdays hearing, by providing consistency in where they can get their meals, relieve themselves, charge cellphones and sleep each night.

They applicants lawyers also presented encampments as a place for more consistent access to pharmacies, safe consumption sites and medical care. The loss of those routines, they said, would be profoundly destabilizing.

For some homeless people, the citys shelters and specially acquired hotel spaces and temporary apartment units may be an acceptable alternative to congregate shelter spaces, they said. For others, however, these spaces have not met their needs. They may be far from peoples communities, the services they rely on, and the routines that they have established.

The city said it believes indoor spaces are safer. In written materials, it argued that encampments pose serious dangers to residents, city staff and the public.

The city has made a policy decision to invest its scarce resources in making safer indoor spaces available to as many people as possible, rather than building infrastructure to support living within parks.

The city cited complaints to staff from members of the public, reporting fear walking near certain parks with encampments.

The city also raised the matter of fire hazards from generators or fuel tanks near tents, noting that one person died in an encampment fire this spring. The applicants countered that the death wasnt in a city park, but under Mount Pleasant Road. It was easier for fire services to monitor encampments in city parks as they were in plain view, they argued, making the case that encamped people were generally cooperative in cases of concern.

Another point of tension is whether encampments have led to increased violence. In its submitted materials, the city pointed to incidents of guns being seized, alleged assaults by and on encampment residents, and an alleged sexual assault at George Hislop Park.

The applicants say the city only identified three instances in city parks where charges were laid for items found in tents  and that at George Hislop Park the encampment resident was a victim, not a perpetrator.

An injunction wouldnt prevent the city from working with encampment residents in order to find indoor alternatives, the applicants said. The injunction sought only to ensure that these efforts are not backed by the threat or use of coercive force.

They acknowledged the city had been able to drastically reduce the size and scale of encampments through outreach, communication and negotiation  but claimed that for some of the encampment residents, a central factor in them refusing indoor alternatives was a lack of communication and loss of trust with the city.

Victoria Gibson is a Toronto-based reporter for the Star covering affordable housing. Her reporting is funded by the Canadian government through its Local Journalism Initiative. Reach her via email: victoriagibson@thestar.ca
TDT | Manama

Southern Governor His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Ali bin Khalifa Al Khalifa yesterday hosted a weekly majlis remotely. Present were Deputy Southern Governor Brigadier Isa Thamer Al Dosari, a number of officials, officers, and citizens representing different regions of the Southern Governorate.

HH Shaikh Khalifa bin Ali hailed the efforts exerted by the Minister of Interior General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa to bolster security and safety across the Kingdom of Bahrain. He stressed the Southern Governorates drive to continue initiatives aimed to promote awareness and support community partnership.

Urging full compliance with the precautionary measures for combating the coronavirus (COVID-19). HH Shaikh Khalifa bin Ali was updated on the citizens need for services, infrastructure projects, and road resurfacing
A second round of vouchers for internet service for low-income families with children in school were mailed last week after the first round has gone mostly unused.

Around 300,000 vouchers were mailed last week, according to the agency in charge of the Alabama Broadband Connectivity for Students program.

In the first phase of the program, Alabamians have redeemed nearly 44,000 vouchers, connecting 75,000 students, Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs Communications Director Mike Presley told AL.com in an email response. Vouchers have been redeemed with all 37 internet service providers and participation has been roughly even throughout the state.

The first phase included mailing 250,000 vouchers in late August. The list of eligible students was provided to ADECA by the Alabama State Department of Education and included families who were eligible for free or reduced-price lunches. Around 450,000 students qualify for the program statewide, officials said.

We are now in the next phase of the program which includes sending a new round of voucher letters to families with new and updated addresses provided by the State Department of Education, Presley continued. This second mailing, mailed last week by our contractor CTC Technology and Energy, also includes a resending of letters to households that have not redeemed a voucher sent in the first mailing earlier in September.

The vouchers, good for internet service through Dec. 30, are being made available through a $100 million allocation from federal CARES Act funding. Families who earn less than 185% of the federal poverty level are eligible to redeem the vouchers, estimated to be worth $400 per family.

The voucher can be used to pay for existing service or to connect to new internet service. Every school district in Alabama is offering remote learning as an option for families worried about attending in-person school.

CTC Technology and Energy operates a call center and receives between 600 and 1,000 calls each day, Presley said.

Families who believe they are eligible for the program but have not yet received a voucher can call 888-212-4998 to check eligibility and obtain a voucher number over the phone, he said.

Families who have their voucher but need help getting service ordered can also call the number, Presley said, and a representative will help ensure that they get service.

School districts across the state are using social media to get the word to families who are eligible. A website, www.abcstudents.org, has been set up to answer questions related to the program. It includes a step-by-step of what families should do to get connected.
Zoos are facing extinction as a result of the pandemic as they say they are unable to access vital funding to help them survive.

The British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) says zoos will struggle to survive the winter without immediate government intervention.

Although the government launched the 100 million Zoo Animals Fund in August, BIAZA says it is inaccessible for most of its members.

Kathryn England, London Zoo Chief Operating Officer, told the BBC's Today programme: 'We're all about conservation and preventing animals from going extinct so it's a really horrible place to be where we're actually worried ourselves about the reality of going extinct.

'That is a scary place for us to be right now.'

Nicky Needham, Acting Joint Director of BIAZA, said the system was flawed.

The body that represents zoos and aquariums says they are facing extinction as a result of the pandemic as they are unable to access the vital 100m government fund to help them survive

Kathryn England, ZSL London Zoo's chief operating officer, says despite their work being about preventing animals from becoming extinct, the zoo itself now faces extinction

She said: 'There's a stipulation that organisations must be down to their last 12 weeks of funding and reserves.

'By the time they get to that point any good zoo will have put a contingency plan in place so plans to rehome their animals and scale down their operations to maintain their animal welfare and care standards.

'That's far too close to closure to be beneficial for most of our zoos and aquariums.'

Ms Needham said more help is needed and, in a statement, added: 'Without further intervention we will likely lose a number of our world-class zoos and aquariums before the next summer visitor period, and see their vital conservation and education work end.

'The action so far has been welcome but it is not enough to save our zoos.'

The representative body is urging the Government to remove prohibitive barriers to the Zoo Animals Fund to make it accessible to all zoos and aquariums in need

BIAZA is also asking for the funds to be ringfenced to ensure zoos are supported through 2021 and for the Business Rate Relief to be extended into 2021 for tourism sector.

London Zoo says the closure during lockdown meant the organisation lost millions of pounds, jeopardising the zoo's future as it launched a campaign calling for donations, backed by Sir David Attenborough in July.

The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) launched a campaign to appeal for public donations, backed by Sir David Attenborough, to help them stay afloat which continues since reopening

The funding is supposed to provide grants of up to 730,000 for animal welfare costs for licenced zoos and aquariums in financial hardship from Covid-19.

But payments can only be accessed when an organisation hits 12 weeks or less of financial reserves.

Just one zoo out of around 300 in England has successfully made a claim from a 100m government recovery fund, according to the BBC.

As he urged people to save the World's oldest zoo which is run by Zoological Society of London, Sir David Attenborough said: 'The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) has made an outstanding contribution to conservation and our understanding of wildlife for 200 years.

'ZSL now faces its toughest challenge to date. Put bluntly, the national institution is now, itself, at risk of extinction.'

ZSL, which houses 20,000 animals in London and Whipsnade zoos, is not alone in resorting to fundraising campaigns to help secure their future.

Chester Zoo and Edinburgh Zoo have both appealed for public donations to help them overcome the damage caused by the pandemic.

Chester Zoo launched a 'Save Our Zoo' campaign to help them continue their conservation work as they said they were unable to access the government's fund.

Chester Zoo reopened in June but the organisation says more funds are needed as guest numbers are currently sitting at about half of what they normally were before the pandemic

In a statement, the zoo said: 'Even with the zoo closed, many of our staff on furlough leave and a strenuous effort to cut all of our costs, we still had to spend 1.6 million per month to keep the zoo going.

'Like any professional organisation we hold access to cash reserves, but without any admissions income since late March and unable to access funding from the government's zoo support fund due to the restrictive criteria for applications, by June we were fearing that an indefinite closure could mean the end of Chester Zoo.'

The zoo says it has received more than 3 million in donations since its campaign launched but that they 'are not out of the woods' yet.

'We've moved from a perilous position to one where we can continue to operate.

'But, with the restrictions on our visitor numbers to around half of our capacity putting a strain on our ability to raise money and with our costs increasing back to normal as we are open again, the pandemic has left us with a huge 5 million shortfall in our finances.'

A government spokesperson told MailOnline that eligibility had recently been increased and is now available to those with 12 weeks reserves where it had previously been six weeks.

Stating that they continue to work with the sector, he added: 'We understand the challenges zoos have been facing due to the coronavirus pandemic and have set up a specialist fund to ensure zoos facing severe financial difficulties can continue to provide the best possible care for their animals.

'We recently expanded eligibility criteria for this funding, and have made it easier for zoos to plan ahead by encouraging them to apply for support well in advance of running into financial difficulties.'
As India geared up to fight the COVID-19 crisis, the Association of Indian Medical device industry relentlessly worked at the forefront to combat the crisis. Rajiv Nath, Forum Coordinator, AiMED on the behalf of the Indian medical device industry was in regular consultation with the Govt & assured Commerce Minister, Piyush Goyal & Govt full support to the Govt's spirited fight against the COVID-19 crisis.

Huge efforts were put into increase medical device manufacturing capacity by AiMeD through its members and beyond by reaching out to garment manufacturers, automakers, auto component manufacturers, and electronic component manufacturers as preparedness for possible unprecedented, unpredictable demands.

AiMeD is an umbrella Association of Indian Manufacturers of Medical Devices covering all types of Medical devices including consumables, disposables, equipment, instruments, electronics, diagnostics, and implants.

With a primary membership of over 350 manufacturers and additionally of over 200 Associate Members representing the interest of over 1200 Manufacturers of Medical devices, however, with over 2000 products AiMeD should be over 7000 factories and bigger than Pharma to address the manufacturer's problems.

Rajiv Nath recognized that the government interventions under the able leadership of Cabinet Secretary, Rajiv Gauba, and DOP Secretary, Dr PD Vaghela helped the Medical devices industry scale up production during the pandemic.

AiMeD worked closely with Govt of India i.e. Dept of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Commerce, NPPA & CDSCO, etc. as a Facilitator between the Govt and the Manufacturers of Medical Devices e.g. gloves, masks, sanitizers, ventilators, diagnostic & testing kits for COVID-19, etc. for ramping up capacity and addressing production bottlenecks in this national emergency to fight against COVID-19 pandemic during the complete lockdown period.

AiMeD provided the Indian Govt, a single point of contact access to domestic manufacturers and on behalf of manufacturers provided them various services like advocacy on policy issues, information services, regulations for medical devices, education and training services, testing assistance, and guidance for quality certification (ISO, CE, ICMED QMS), lobbying for funding for R & D from the Govt, encourage innovations from member units, Improve clinician and patient access to the modern, innovative and reliable medical device technologies through organizing and supporting meetings, seminars, symposia, exhibitions, and demonstration, to promote global harmonization and make India a MedTech superpower & also strengthen India to be the second factory in the world for medical devices & a dependable manufacturer of quality products in the global supply chain.

The Government of India through its flagship "Make in India" initiative relied heavily on the Indian manufacturers to meet the rising demand of essential healthcare equipment's for the country, pushing the Indian medical devices sector to become self-reliant especially for the essential 39 COVID medical devices.

AiMeD worked with QCI to expedite finalization of ICMED Plus Certification as well as with consultants consortium to provide online training on Quality Management System Certification to new entrepreneurs from automakers, garments, textile, auto parts industry who had ventured into medical devices manufacturing to build capacity & capabilities to meet QCIs ICMED certification and regulatory compliance so that they could have the confidence to seek global certification of CE and US FDA Compliance for enabling global competitiveness.

Four batches of over 115 Manufacturers or their representatives have intensely trained over seven modules over 11 sessions spread over 2 weeks in April & May 2020.

Before the outbreak of COVID-19, there were only 20 firms manufacturing 62 lakhs PPE kits per year, but within two-three months, the number of manufacturers listed with AiMeD increased to 140 with 25.55 crores annual capacity.

Similarly, the number of Indian firms manufacturing, ventilator manufacturers went up from 8 to 17, mask manufacturers from 30 to 108, swab manufacturers from zero to five, and sanitizer manufacturers from 35 to 49, and RT PCR Kit manufacturer from 0 to 8.

Find the comparison sheet of the growth rate before & after COVID-19 with an annual capacity below:

AiMeD ensures convergence at one common platform, when needed, for ensuring the overall growth of the Indian medical devices industry and further address the needs of all members of the medical device industry irrespective of their affiliation or their company size. It also helps in the wider dissemination of information to each player in the industry.

AiMeD has been horizontally divided into common working groups like - R & D and product development, legal & tax issues, export-related issues, medical device regulatory issues common to all vertical groups of different families of product lines with zonal representations and cluster heads.

"COVID-19 crisis has shown that the Indian medical devices sector can rise to the challenge. When imports got disrupted, specific devices detailed with quantified production shortages and a focused Inter-Ministry Group coordinating with domestic manufacturers via AiMeD had addressed production bottlenecks and challenges so that not only capacity got utilized but also ramped up rapidly," said Rajiv Nath.

Rajiv Nath, Forum Coordinator of the Association of Indian Medical Device Industry (AiMeD) is also the Board Member of Kalam Institute of Healthcare Technology & Member National Medical Device Promotion Council & Ex-Chairman IPC Committee on Medical Device Standard & Chairman - Technical Committee - ICMED Certification by QCI as well as Member of Expert Advisory Group (EAG) for Biomedical Device and Technology Development (BDTD) by Dept of Science & Technology & Member of Medical Devices - Expert Advisory Group to CDSCO for Regulation in India. He also serves as Advisor to Haryana Govt and to UP Govt for their forthcoming Medical Device Park.

Rajiv Nath is also the Managing Director of Hindustan Syringes & Medical Devices Ltd; Trustee - Safe Point India - a CSR Initiative of HMD (Hindustan Syringes & Medical Devices Ltd) He is also the President of All India Syringes and Needles Manufacturers Association (AISNMA).

This story is provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article.

DISCLAIMER

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
New Delhi: In protest against the Centres newly passed farm laws and to express solidarity with farmers of the country, the Congress party is going to launch a `Kisan Yatra` from Punjab this week. The Kisan Yatra will begin from Punjab`s Sangrur and will end in Delhi covering various districts of Punjab and Haryana.

The party has planned massive protests against these laws from September 24 to November 14.

Former Congress chief and Lok Sabha MP Rahul Gandhi has been given a detailed program to finalise his presence. According to sources, Rahul will address a public meeting in Sangrur and after that Yatra will proceed to Patiala in a roadshow.

Live TV

The program is scheduled for October 2 but it could be postponed to October 3. Harish Rawat, All India Congress Committee (AICC) in-charge of Punjab, is camping in Chandigarh for program preparations.

On Wednesday, Haryana leaders held a meeting along with Vivek Bansal, Haryana AICC in-charge in Delhi who also chaired the meeting, as per Haryana Congress President Kumari Selja.

She also said that Rahul will visit Punjab and Haryana in the next two-three days.

Congress has announced to fight at every level for the farmers` rights and party`s interim president Sonia Gandhi has also instructed the Congress-ruled states not to implement these "black" laws of the Central Government.

According to sources close to Rahul, the aim of the program is to highlight the Congress` stand against these laws and to showcase "anti-farmers" face of the Modi government.

The Parliament has recently passed the Farmers` (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020, Farmers` Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill, 2020 and The Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill 2020 which got President Ram Nath Kovind`s assent and came into effect from September 27.
The cast of Hum Log, Indias first family drama TV series, were welcomed on the sets of The Kapil Sharma Show. This weekend, cast members Seema Pahwa, Manoj Pahwa Rajesh Puri and Divya Sethi will be seen as guests on the comedy show, while other co-stars will join them virtually.

Hum Log released in the year 1984 and garnered a lot of love from the audience. The cast members, still popular among TV and cinema viewers, will be seen interacting and having a good time with the members of The Kapil Sharma Show.

Coming together on screen after many years, they will also share some unknown facts and incidents from the beautiful days of the shoot and their life journey since then.

Kapil shared a promo from the episode, which was filled with wisecracks and laughter. This one will surely be a nostalgic trip for many.

Hum Log began telecast on Doordarshan, Indias national network on 7 July 1984, then the only television channel of India. It is the story of an Indian middle-class family of the 1980s and their daily struggles and aspirations.

At the end of every episode, veteran Hindi film actor Ashok Kumar discussed the ongoing story and situations with the audience using Hindi couplets and limericks. In later episodes, hde introduced the actors who played various characters in the serial and end his monologue with the various Indian language versions of the words Hum Log.
Global climatic events like the Roman Warm Period, Medieval Anomaly, and the Little Ice Age may have had significant impacts on India's landscape, vegetation, and socio-economic growth, with abrupt shifts in the Indian Summer Monsoon (ISM) coinciding with these climatic events, a study by Indian researchers has found.

The study by the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, an institute of the Department of Science & Technology, shows wet monsoon conditions in the North-Western Himalaya between 1200 and 550 BCE.

This condition prevailed till 450 AD, coinciding with the Roman Warm Period. It was followed by reduced precipitation and a weak ISM till 950 AD and then strengthened during the Medieval Anomaly between 950 and 1350 AD.

During the Little Ice Age, there was a pronounced reduction in monsoon precipitation.

The study carried out with lake sediments from Rewalsar Lake, a freshwater lake in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, could resolve the long debate among scientists about whether such events were local or global.

Sediments from this lake preserve signature that can be used as proxies to understand monsoon variability in the past.

In a recent study published in the journal 'Quaternary International', researchers obtained grain size data, stable isotope ratios of carbon and nitrogen, total organic carbon (TOC), and total nitrogen data from the sediments of the lake.

They retrieved a sediment core of 15 metre length from the centre of the lake at a water depth of about 6.5 metres using a piston corer, which was used as a sample.

The chronology of Rewalsar Lake sediment was then established based on the Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (a form of mass spectrometry to separate a rare isotope from an abundant neighbouring mass) 14C radiocarbon dates of fourteen samples and the age ranges from approximately 2950 years to 200 years ago.

Calculation of total organic carbon TOC, Total Nitrogen TN, and depleted Carbon isotope ratio values during the interval 1200 to 550 BCE indicated wet monsoon conditions in the North-Western Himalaya.

This condition prevailed till 450 AD, coinciding with the Roman Warm Period. This was followed by reduced precipitation and a weak ISM till 950 AD. The ISM became comparatively stronger during the Medieval Anomaly between 950 to 1350 AD. During the Little Ice Age, there was a pronounced reduction in ISM precipitation, as indicated by relatively low C/N ratio and decreased TOC content.

The findings pointed out a revival of wet climatic conditions with a strong ISM around 1600 AD following the Little Ice Age, which prevails in present times.

The variability of ISM in the historical past needs to be ascertained to understand present, and future behaviour of ISM as climate shifts and water supply has dictated the flourish and demise of ancient civilisations, the study said.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
TORONTO, Oct. 01, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MDBriefcase Group Inc. (MDBC), Canada's leading provider of online continuing medical education and professional development for healthcare providers, is excited to announce the acquisition of OncologyEducation. OncologyEducation is a comprehensive online platform providing evidence-based oncology content, developed and authored by a leading, international faculty of oncology professionals.



"We are excited to add OncologyEducation to our family of online educational resources for healthcare professionals," said Jason Flowerday, CEO of MDBC. "This acquisition aligns with our commitment to investing in critical therapeutic areas to provide our worldwide members with the latest scientific resources for informed healthcare decision-making. Together, MDBriefcase and OncologyEducation serves to provide the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors with improved access and reach to innovative medical education opportunities and programming."

"OncologyEducation was founded on the principle of improving patient care by providing oncology professionals worldwide with the latest oncology information resources," said Dr. Berry, co-founder of OncologyEducation. "We are a global organization that has grown to have strong credibility among healthcare professionals around the world, and we are confident that MDBriefcase's track record of global success can further expand the reach and impact of quality oncology education through its innovative offerings."

Since 2001, MDBC has delivered interactive, peer-reviewed, and evidence-based programs to more that 250,000 members around the world. Committed to enhancing quality of care and healthcare decision-making, MDBC offers educational resources for healthcare professionals in Canada, Australia, the Middle East, and Europe. Through this critical acquisition, MDBC can provide a growing number of members with access to the most current oncology information and resources available.

Delivering educational content to healthcare professionals in over twenty countries, MDBC is proud to welcome OncologyEducation into the fold during a time that brings even more opportunity for innovation in health education.

For further information: Megan Chapman, Director of Marketing, MDBriefcase Group Inc., T: 416-488-5500 x292, E: mchapman@mdbriefcase.com

About MDBriefcase Group Inc.

MDBriefCase Group Inc. specializes in developing online, accredited and unaccredited continuing professional development for healthcare professionals. The company partners with prestigious regional and international medical associations to ensure its innovative education programs reflect the local experiences of healthcare professionals around the world. Its programs are peer-reviewed by clinical specialists to ensure balance and applicability to practice. Over 250,000 healthcare professionals have access to the latest evidence-based information and guidelines to improve local patient care. For more information, visit the MDBC's website at: www.mdbriefcase.com

About OncologyEducation

OncologyEducation is led by Dr. Scott Berry, a medical oncologist, Professor and Head of the Queen's University Department of Oncology. Dr. Berry is the Medical Director at the Cancer Centre of Southeastern Ontario at the Kingston Health Sciences Centre. Dr. Berry co-found OncologyEducation with the goal to provide rich, timely and unbiased physician-authored resources to thousands of oncology professionals worldwide. OncologyEducation connects a global community that includes thousands of physicians, specialists, nurses, pharmacists, students, residents and researchers. Its mission is to improve patient care through education, in particular knowledge resources, innovative practices and networking opportunities. For more information, visit the OncologyEducation's website at: www.oncologyeducation.com

About Persistence Capital Partners

Persistence Capital Partners is Canada's leading private equity fund exclusively focused on high-growth opportunities in the healthcare field. With deep healthcare industry expertise, PCP aims to create significant long-term capital appreciation for its investors by identifying and developing attractive investment opportunities in the Canadian healthcare market. PCP has offices in Montreal, Quebec, and Toronto, Ontario. www.persistencecapital.com
A devastated family in Washington state lost their home to a wildfire days before all seven members tested positive for coronavirus.

The Graham family from Malden, around 37 miles south of Spokane, saw their home destroyed by the Babb Road on Labor day which wiped out most of the town.

They had driven to a relative's home on the day of the fire, but by the time they had heard the news of the mandatory evacuation for Malden, it was too late to save any of their belongings.

In addition to their home, their barn was also destroyed, along with all their belongings that they hadn't taken with them when the left earlier that day.

'It's just surreal like being in a bad dream and you're like this can't be real,' said Jessica Graham to Q13 FOX. 'I was more in shock than I would have imagined, I felt numb a lot for the first few days.

The Graham family (pictured) suffered a run of extremely bad luck starting on Labor day after their home burned down in the Babb Road fire. Days later, the whole family tested positive for coronavirus. They are currently quarantining in a hotel

The Graham family's Malden home, barn and all their belongings were completely destroyed as the Babb Road fire ripped through the town. It started on Labor day and most of the town was wiped out

The parents said one of the hardest parts of their ordeal was telling their children they no longer have a home, noting that one of their daughters had a particularly difficult time processing the news.

'How does somebody deal with not having home anymore? That has probably been the hardest thing thus far just seeing my kid in that much pain and not being able to do anything about it really,' said Jessica's husband Matthew.

Days later, after staying with relatives following the loss of their home, all seven members - the parents and five children - tested positive for Covid-19.

'Before our house burned down we were being really cautious about not being in groups of people and always having the kids in face masks and keeping our distance from everyone,' Matthew Graham said.

Jessica said her family's need for support after losing their home had caused them to let their guard down when it came to taking coronavirus precautions.

'I feel like you really just crave being around other people because that's really all you have left at that point you've lost everything,' she said.

The family said that before their home burned down, they had been carefully following coronavirus measures. But the fire forced them to stay with relatives, where they believe all seven of their family members came down with coronavirus

Fortunately for the family, the five children only came down with mild symptoms of the virus - but Jessica and Matthew felt the effects much harder.

'It's just like hitting a brick wall with this overwhelming exhaustion,' Jessica Graham told the news station.

'I'm not feeling that great right now but I can sit up all day, which is a huge improvement because before I couldn't hold my head up for that long because I was just so exhausted,' Matthew Graham said.

Pictured: Matthew and Jessica Graham's son stands infront of their burned-down home wearing a face mask. The family's five children were spared severe symptoms of the virus

Jessica said her family's need for support after losing their home had caused them to let their guard down when it came to taking coronavirus precautions

Father Matthew said that the family was fortunate that the situation was only temporary, saying that they were thankful to have fire insurance. A GoFundMe page has also been set up for the family that has raised over $18,000 to help them get back on their feet

The family are currently quarantining for a second week in a row in a hotel room waiting for their symptoms to subside.

'I'm not sure if it's going to get any worse at this point really nothing would surprise me,' said Matthew. 'This will be a year that we look back on and we'll all probably be vastly stronger people for it.'

He added that their situation is only temporary, and that the family feels extremely fortunate to have fire insurance. They plan to start house hunting once they have recovered from the coronavirus.

Wildfires have devastated the West Coast this year, with millions of acres being destroyed. Pictured: A firefighter works to put out the flames of a wildfire in California

A GoFundMe page has also been started for the family that has so far raised over $18,000 - well over their target of $10,000 - that will go towards replacing the belongings that were lost in the fire and for basic day-to-day supplies.

'At least for us, there's a light at the end of the tunnel and I've explained to the kids they should be grateful because there is a light at the end of the tunnel and we just need to get there and not everybody has a light at the end of their tunnel,' said Matthew.

An update posted on September 11 by KHQ, a few days after Labor day, said that the Babb Road Fire that destroyed the town of Malden was burning nearly 17,000 acres and had destroyed 189 buildings.
New Delhi, Oct 1 : Actor Amol Parashar, who rose to fame with his character Chitvan Sharma in TVF Tripling, and is currently being seen in film 'Dolly Kitty Aur Woh Chamakte Sitare', has also featured in the lead role in the televised play 'Panchi Aise Aate Hai' on Tata Sky Theatre, which is celebrating Marathi playwright Vijay Tendulkar's contribution to theatre.

Sharing his thoughts on theatre, Amol shared that for exploration purposes, "theatre is the easiest and most convenient medium for an actor".

"When working on a text, or when working on a theatrical production, the process gives you ample time and space to experiment and 'play' around. You can keep working on a performance or refining it as you do more and more shows of the same production. Thanks to the beauty of imagination in theatre, you can also deal with characters and themes that are far away from you physically. Film doesn't offer you the same freedoms, at least not to the same extent," he told IANSlife in an email.

Asked about theatre as a tool for social change and a mirror of society, Amol, 29, feels that theatre performance and watching is a much more personal experience. "You can dabble in unique and radical ideas and still find acceptance. The constraints of commerce don't come in the way of theatre as much as they do with other forms of storytelling. That makes it a much more effective tool to drive through social change and new ideas." The young, promising actor also shared his perspective on Vijay Tendulkar's contribution to Marathi theatre.

"Vijay Tendulkar is a legendary name and I am too small a fry to even have an opinion on his contribution. He had a voice of his own, and a strong one at that, taking up social and political events of his time and depicting them in his work. His plays are read, performed and analysed in a multiple languages in India and outside. There's no doubt that he is one of the most influential playwrights of our country." Amol has dabbled in multiple mediums and genres, and says that it is a process to delve deeper into his craft and also himself as a human being. "I would like to be grow my skillset to a point where I should feel like nothing is unachievable." Finally, sharing his thoughts on theatre's new televised avatar that he's now featuring in, the actor shared that, "Every art form and medium goes through a process of evolution. With new technology at our disposal, it is our duty to experiment and see if we can come up with newer and newer ways to reach the audience. It is a great initiative by Tata Sky to this purpose, especially because classic texts and playwrights are being made accessible to a large audience. These texts would otherwise just become an archive in a library. It's invigorating to see them being packaged in a certain way and made accessible to the large audience that Tata Sky enjoys." (Siddhi Jain can be contacted at siddhi.j@ians.in)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Dublin, Oct. 01, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Ofev (Nintedanib) - Drug Insight and Market Forecast - 2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



Ofev (nintedanib) - Drug Insight and Market Forecast - 2030 report outlays comprehensive insights of the product indicated for the treatment of its approved condition.



A detailed picture of the Ofev (nintedanib) in Seven Major Markets, i.e., United States, EU5 (Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom), and Japan, for the study period 2017-2030 is provided in this report along with a detailed description of the product. The product details cover mechanism of action, dosage and administration, route of synthesis, and pharmacological studies, including product marketed details, regulatory milestones, and other development activities.



Further, it also consists of market assessments inclusive of the market forecast, SWOT analysis, and detailed analyst views. It further highlights the market competitors, late-stage emerging therapies, and patent details in the global space.



OFEV (Nintedanib) capsules is an FDA-approved prescription medicine used: to treat people with a lung disease called idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), to treat people with a chronic (long lasting) interstitial lung disease in which lung fibrosis continues to worsen (progress), or to slow the rate of decline in lung function in people with systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (also known as scleroderma-associated ILD). Ofev belongs to a group of medicines called antineoplastic (anti-cancer) agents.



It works by blocking the activity of a group of proteins which are involved in the building and the growth of blood vessels. These blood vessels are necessary to provide growing cancer cells with nutrients and oxygen. By blocking the activity of these proteins, nintedanib can inhibit the growth and the spread of cancer cells. Ofev is used in combination with the chemotherapy docetaxel to treat a type of lung cancer called Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC).



It is used in adult patients with a certain type of lung cancer called adenocarcinoma who have already received one treatment with another medicine to treat this cancer but whose tumour started to grow again. Ofev is a blockbuster drug and grew almost 29% to reach 1.1 billion euros in 2018 for IPF. The 2019 financial figures haven't been reported yet, but in the first half of the year sales grew 22% to 677 million euros. The drug was originally approved to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) in 2014. In 2019, it was approved for extended indications with ILD caused by systemic sclerosis (SSC-ILD).



Scope of the report

A comprehensive product overview including the product description, mechanism of action, dosage and administration, route of synthesis, pharmacological studies (pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics) and adverse reactions.

Elaborated details on regulatory milestones and other development activities have been provided in this report.

The report also highlights the drug marketed details across the United States, Europe and Japan.

The report also covers the patent's information with expiry timeline around Ofev (nintedanib).

The report contains historical and forecasted sales for Ofev (nintedanib) till 2030.

Comprehensive coverage of the late-stage emerging therapies (Phase III) in the space with a brief snapshot of the details.

The report also features the SWOT analysis with analyst insights and key findings of Ofev (nintedanib).

Ofev (nintedanib) Analytical Perspective



In-depth Ofev (nintedanib) Market Assessment



This report provides a detailed market assessment of Ofev (nintedanib) in Seven Major Markets, i.e., United States, EU5 (Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom), and Japan. This segment of the report provides historical and forecasted sales data from 2017 to 2030.



Ofev (nintedanib) Clinical Assessment



The report provides the clinical trials information of Ofev (nintedanib) covering trial interventions, trial conditions, trial status, start and completion dates.



Key Topics Covered:



1. Product Overview

1.1. Indication

1.2. Mechanism of Action

1.3. Dosage and Administration

1.4.1 Dosage Forms and Strengths

1.4. Route of Synthesis

1.5. Pharmacology

1.4.2 Pharmacodynamics

1.4.3 Pharmacokinetics

1.6. Adverse Reactions

1.7. Product Snapshot

1.8. Development Milestones of Ofev (nintedanib)

1.9. Marketed Details

1.4.4 United States

1.4.5 Europe

1.4.6 Japan

1.10. Patent Details



2. SWOT Analysis

2.1. Analyst Views



3. Regulatory Milestones

3.1. Approvals

3.2. Research and Development

3.3. Clinical Trials Information

3.4. Safety and Efficacy

3.5. Product Developmental Activities



4. Market Assessment

4.1. 7MM Market Analysis

4.2. United States

4.3. Europe

4.4. Japan

4.5. Key Findings



5. Market Competitors



6. Emerging Therapies



7. Appendix



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/b21zkh

Research and Markets also offers Custom Research services providing focused, comprehensive and tailored research.
EDWARDSVILLE  Circuit Judge Kyle Napp said Wednesday she will announce her verdict Thursday as to the fate of Donald M. Nelson, the killer of Eldon Twirp Williams of Godfrey.

Nelson, 36, of Alton is charged with first-degree murder, criminal trespass to a residence, armed violence, unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon and unlawful possession of a firearm.

The case went to the judge after an expert for the defense testified that Nelson did not appreciate the criminality of his act when he shot Williams in the back of the head on Oct. 16, 2016. There was no argument as to the facts that Nelson went to a house in the 200 block of West Delmar Avenue, Alton, where Williams was sitting in a car, and shot him in the head.

On Tuesday, court psychologist Daniel Cuneo testified that Nelson was malingering, or feigning insanity.

But Dr. Terry Killian testified Wednesday that Nelson did not understand the criminality of his actions.

Killian said Nelson has a history of mental illness. He said he formed his opinion partly off the reports of the number of times that Nelson was admitted to mental health facilities for treatment.

He also said he did not believe Nelson was lying in the first 87 minutes of a recorded police interview in which Nelson gave conflicting statements about his whereabouts the day of the murder. Killian said some of what Nelson said may have been lying, but that Nelson was confused.

His report to the court said Nelson suffered from probable schizo-affective disorder, which entails symptoms such as hallucinations or delusions, and mood disorder symptoms, such as depression or mania. Killian said he could not diagnose an accompanying mood disorder, along with Nelsons hallucinations.

Cuneo testified Tuesday that Nelson was able to appreciate the criminality of his acts, although he is mentally ill. He said that, during one of his interviews with Nelson, the defendant agreed with everything Cuneo suggested. Some of what Nelson told the experts was not until after he was charged and taken into custody in the Madison County Jail.

In her closing argument, Assistant Madison County Public Defender Mary Copeland said Nelson carries with him a great amount of guilt, over his actions. She said that, when he is taking the proper amount of medication, his symptoms are less bothersome.

She said the Illinois Department of Human Services let her client down by failing to do enough to treat him when he was admitted to mental health facilities. She said it is not logical that Nelson would kill an 87-year-old man he did not know and for no reason.

She noted that, if Nelson is found not guilty by reason of insanity, he is not going home. He would be assigned to a mental health facility and a judge would review his case periodically to determine if he can be released.

If Nelson is found guilty but mentally ill, he would be sentenced to the Illinois Department of Corrections with the opportunity for treatment, but he would have to serve out his sentence.

Assistant Madison County States Attorney Cyrstal Uhe argued that Nelsons flight following the shooting and his lying to police is evidence of his recognition of the criminality of his acts.
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey apologized Wednesday to a survivor of a 1963 church bombing by the Ku Klux Klan in Birmingham that killed four black girls, calling the blast an 'egregious injustice'.

Yet she declined to pay restitution to the woman, Sarah Collins Rudolph, without legislative involvement.

Rudolph, now 69, is looking for compensation from the state for the injuries she suffered at twelve years old in the bombing that killed her sister.

Her legal team claims that state leaders at the time encouraged the KKK to use violence against black people and to mount these kinds of attacks.

Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey on Wednesday apologized to a survivor of a 1963 church bombing by the Ku Klux Klan in Birmingham that killed four black girls. Sarah Collins Rudolph is looking for compensation from the state for the injuries she suffered in the bombing that killed her sister

Sarah Collins Rudolph and her husband, George Rudolph, have fought for compensation for the injuries and trauma she suffered in a KKK church bombing in Birmingham in 1963

A civil defense worker and a fireman are shown on September 15, 1963, walking through the debris from a bomb explosion at the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham. The KKK bombing killed four young black girls and injured several others

Then-Alabama Governor George Wallace stood strongly against desegregation while the Birmingham police commissioner, Eugene 'Bull' Connor, was notorious for his willingness to use violence in combating radical demonstrators, union members and blacks, according to History.com.

Rudolph's lawyers also argue she has been hounded all her life by the trauma and by the medical bills for her injuries.

On Tuesday, after 57 years, 15 days and multiple pleas for an apology, Rudolph finally heard from the state government.

Ivey, responding to a request submitted by Rudolph's attorney, said the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church caused 'untold pain and suffering' through the decades to the victims and their families.

'There should be no question that Ms. Collins Rudolph and the families of those who perished  including Ms. Collins Rudolph's sister, Addie Mae, as well as Cynthia Wesley, Carole Robertson and Carole Denice McNair  suffered an egregious injustice that has yielded untold pain and suffering over the ensuing decades,' Ivey wrote in a letter.

'For that, they most certainly deserve a sincere, heartfelt apology - an apology that I extend today without hesitation or reservation,' the Republican governor added.

But Ivey said legislators would have to be involved in talks about Rudolph's request for restitution.

'For that reason, I would propose that our attorneys - as well as attorneys for the Legislature - begin such discussions with you as soon as possible,' she wrote.

Left to right, Carol Benise Mcnair, 11; Carole Robinson, 14; Addie Mae Collins, 14; and Cynthia Dianne Wesley, 14. All four girls were killed in the KK bombing on their church in 1963

Police officers and fire fighters are called to quell unrest at the 16th Street Baptist Church in May 1963, months before the bombing. The church had been the center of many of the civil rights protests that had taken place in the Alabama city in the early 60s

Former Alabama Gov. George Wallace, left, in suit, is shown in this June 1963 photo, when he vowed 'segregation forever' and stood in an Alabama schoolhouse door to keep blacks from enrolling at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. He has been accused of inciting violence from KKK members that led to the 1963 bombing that killed the four young girls

Rudolph was unavailable for immediate comment, but her husband, George Rudolph, said they had yet to receive Ivey's letter.

'I didn't know she had apologized,' he said.

An attorney for Sarah Rudolph, Ishan Bhabha, said he and other members of Rudolph's legal team were 'gratified' by the apology and looked forward to discussions about compensation that she 'justly deserves'.

Five girls were gathered in a downstairs bathroom at Birmingham's 16th Street Baptist Church on September 15, 1963, when a timed bomb planted by KKK members went off outside under a set of stairs.

The church was a significant religious center for the citys black population and a routine meeting place for civil rights organizers like Martin Luthor King Jr.

Alabama Gov. George C. Wallace

It had been the center of many of the civil rights protests that had taken place in the city in the early 60s.

The bombing was the third in eleven days, after a federal court order had come down mandating the integration of Alabamas school system and sparked outrage among the KKK.

There were about 200 members of the church inside the building when the bomb went off, many attending Sunday school before service.

Most parishioners were able to escape although some with injuries.

However, the blast killed Denise McNair, 11, and three 14-year-olds: Carole Robertson, Cynthia Wesley, and Addie Mae Collins, who was Rudolphs sister.

Their deaths led to immediate protests as thousands of angry black demonstrators gathered at the scene of the bombing.

Violence broke out across the city and Gov. Wallace sent police and state troopers to break the protests up.

A number of arrests were made and two black men were killed, one of them by the police, before the National Guard were called in to end the protests.

Martin Luther King Jr. would later speak at the funeral of three of the girls, which was attended by 8,000 people.

Blinded in one eye by the blast, Sarah Rudolph has spent a lifetime dealing with physical and mental pain from the bombing.

Jewell Chris McNair attends a ceremony where his daughter, Denise McNair and the three other girls who died in the bombing, were posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal at the U.S. Capitol on September 10, 2013, close to the 50th anniversary of the event

According to NPR, she has worked much of her life as a house cleaner and a factory worker, both of which don't supply health insurance.

'I still shake. I still jump when I hear loud sounds,' she said in 2013.

'Every day I think about it, just looking in the mirror and seeing the scars on my face. I'm reminded of it every day.'

Despite her injuries, Rudolph provided testimony that helped lead to the convictions of the men accused of planting the bomb.

Three Ku Klux Klan members convicted in the bombing years later died in prison, and a fourth suspect died without ever being charged.

The culprits had initially escaped conviction as the FBI described how 'witnesses were reluctant to talk and physical evidence was lacking', despite a case being built around several KKK members.

According to History.com, the FBI held the identities of the members who planted to bomb but did not act.

Then-head of the FBI J Edgar Hoover disapproved of the civil rights movement.

The case was reopened again in 1977 by Alabama Attorney General Bob Baxley.

Klan leader Robert E. Chambliss was brought to trail and convicted of murder despite claiming his innocence. He died in prison in 1985.

The case was reopened once more in 1980, 1988 and 1997.

Former Ku Klux Klansman Bobby Frank Cherry was convicted of the bombing in 2002

Jefferson County Sheriff's Deputies lead Thomas Blanton Jr., out of the courtroom in handcuffs after a jury convicted him of murder for the bombing in Birmingham in May 2001

Two other former Klan members, Thomas Blanton and Bobby Frank Cherry, were finally brought to trial and convicted in 2001 and 2002.

Herman Frank Cash, a fourth suspect, died in 1994 before he could be brought to trial.

While three men were eventually convicted, Rudolph has pushed for the state to acknowledge how the actions of their former leaders may have led to her injuries.

A law firm working for free on Rudolph's behalf sent a letter to Ivey on September 14 arguing that the words of state leaders, including Gov. Wallace, encouraged the bombing.

They claimed that Wallace 'played an undisputed role in encouraging its citizens to engage in racial violence' and that the bombing was 'inspired and motivated by then-Gov. [George] Wallace's racist rhetoric'.

Months earlier, Wallace had vowed 'segregation forever' during his inaugural, and the bombing occurred as Birmingham's public schools were being desegregated.

Later that year, he tried to stop integration at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa by standing in the doorway of the school and blocking two black students from entering the auditorium.

Ivey wrote that there were questions about whether the state could be held legally liable for the bombing.

'Having said that, there should be no question that the racist, segregationist rhetoric used by some of our leaders during that time was wrong and would be utterly unacceptable in today's Alabama,' she said.

The bombing had a lasting impact on the civil rights movement and the deaths of the four girls helped cement support toward ending segregation.

The support would lead to the passage of both the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

In 2013, on the 50th anniversary of the bombing, the four girls who were killed received posthumous Congressional Gold Medals.
WASHINGTON -- During the past three months of a violent and contentious election season in Europe's last autocratic stronghold, RFE/RL journalists in Belarus have faced the most intense harassment since they first began working inside the country 30 years ago.

Our journalists have spent more than 125 days behind bars since June 25, said Alexander Lukashuk, director of RFE/RLs Belarus Service. In the course of covering the presidential election and the more than 50 days of protests that have followed, they have been harassed, beaten, jailed, and stripped of their accreditation.

The August 9 elections, fueled by public anger over government denial of the coronavirus pandemic and economic decline, were roundly condemned in the U.S. and Europe as fraudulent. Throughout the ensuing nationwide protests in support of opposition candidate Svyatlana Tsikhanouskaya and the self-determined inauguration of Alyaksandr Lukashenka, RFE/RL journalists have provided professional on-the-ground coverage of the electrifying events -- and paid a high price. Among numerous incidents:

RFE/RL social media consultant Ihar Losik marks his 100th day in pre-trial confinement in Minsk on October 4. Losik, a prominent blogger who worked with RFE/RL as part of the distinguished Vaclav Havel Journalism Fellowship, was arrested on June 25 and accused by authorities of using his popular Telegram channel to prepare to disrupt public order ahead of the vote. According to his wife, Daria, Losik is being held in deliberately inhuman conditions"  kept in cramped basement cells, forced to cohabit with a cellmate infested with head lice, and prohibited from receiving letters and personal visits. Daria and the couples baby daughter, Paulina, have not seen Losik since his detention; neither have his parents.

Belarus Service photojournalist Uladz Hrydzin served 11 days in jail after being detained by unidentified men wearing balaclavas after covering a September 13 protest rally in Minsk. Authorities accused Hrydzin of violating Belarus's law on mass gatherings; while in detention, Hrydzin was beaten and the flash cards holding his photos were confiscated. Released from jail on September 24, Hrydzin cannot work legally because he has been stripped of his accreditation.

Anton Trafimovich suffered a broken nose after being grabbed from the street, beaten by riot police, and left handcuffed kneeling on the floor of a police van. RFE/RL later received anonymously-sourced audio recordings suggesting that Trafimovich and other of its journalists in Belarus had been deliberately surveilled.

Alyaksandra Dynko was arrested by police while reporting live on air from a street protest. Dynko, an award-winning reporter for the Belarus Service, has been repeatedly harassed by Belarusian authorities for her frank reporting during previous protest movements against Lukashenka, who has served as Belaruss autocratic ruler for the past 26 years.

These actions come during an unprecedented crackdown against press freedom in Belarus. At least 17 journalists working for major foreign news organizations -- including Hrydzin, Dynko, and three other Belarus-based RFE/RL reporters -- were stripped of their accreditation on August 29. Earlier in August, five RFE/RL reporters with expelled from Belarus due to the governments denial of accreditation.

Our journalists need accreditation to legally work in Belarus  without it, theyre at grave risk of abuse and arrest, said RFE/RL Acting President Daisy Sindelar. The Belarus government has spent the last three months deliberately and cynically stripping professional reporters of accreditation. This is a clear attempt to silence truthful news and information from reaching the Belarusian people at a critical moment in their countrys history.

That Belarusians are seeking trustworthy alternatives to state-controlled media is evident in the record audiences that are consuming RFE/RLs live news and insightful analysis. The number of subscribers to the Belarus Services Telegram channel has tripled to nearly 100,000 since early August, the Service totaled more than 54 million Instagram video views in August and September, and video views on the Services YouTube channel in the two months together exceeded 30 million. The Service has deployed mirror sites and an updated news app to circumvent pervasive disruption to internet blockages, and has resumed radio broadcasting via a cross-border AM transmissions. Additionally, live coverage of protests and developments by Current Time, the 24/7 Russian-language digital video network led by RFE/RL, earned its Belarus-related content a combined 294 million views in August and September.

About RFE/RL

RFE/RL relies on its networks of local reporters to provide accurate news and information to more than 38 million people in 27 languages and 23 countries where media freedom is restricted, or where a professional press has not fully developed. Its videos were viewed over 3.6 billion times on Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram/IGTV in FY2019. RFE/RL is an editorially independent media company funded by a grant from the U.S. Congress through the U.S. Agency for Global Media.

----

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:

Martins Zvaners in Washington (zvanersm@rferl.org, +1.202.457.6948)

Jana Hokuvova in Prague (hokuvovaj@rferl.org, +420.221.122.072)
She's been a model since she was 15 and has walked runways for the likes of Dior, Gucci and YSL.

And Constance Jablonski looked every inch the professional as she flaunted her model figure during Isabel Marant's Paris Fashion Week show on Thursday.

The former Victoria's Secret Angel, 29, put on a leggy display as she stormed the catwalk in high-waisted white shorts.

Stunning: Constance Jablonski looked sensaitonal as she flaunted her model figure during Isabel Marant's Paris Fashion Week show on Thursday

Constance accentuated her long toned legs with a pair of stripy blue and white cowboy boots.

The beauty went braless as she strutted the catwalk while rocking a plunging white blouse with a pretty button detail along the seams.

She wore her locks down for the womenswear Spring/Summer 2021 show and let them fall behind her shoulders as she made her way around the runway.

Wow: The model went braless for the fashion show in a plunging white blouse and white shorts

Model Tina Kunakey, who is married to French actor Vincent Cassel, was also seen arriving at the show on Thursday with her brother Zakari.

She looked sensational in a blue jumper dress with a statement square-neck detail and pointed white boots.

Constance first rose to prominence after taking part in a modelling competition aged 15, before signing to agency Marilyn.

Fashion: Constance added a patterned pair of blue cowboy boots to her ensemble

Glam: She wore a slick of blusher and nude lipstick to give her a glow on the runway

She made her catwalk debut in 2008 at fashion weeks in New York, Milan and Paris, walking for the likes of Dior, Gucci, Burberry, YSL and other major fashion houses.

In 2010 she landed her first big gig as an Angel for underwear giant Victoria's Secret and becoming the face of Estee Lauder, going on to pose for Harper's Bazaar, Vogue and other major fashion titles.

Fashion Week in the city comes as Paris is set to impose strict new regulations in attempt to slow the spike in coronavirus cases.

Emmanuel Macron's government has ordered bars in Paris, along with Lyon and nine other cities on 'heightened alert', to close at 10pm.

Standout: Tina Kunakey commanded attention in an electric blue jumper dress

Family: She was joined for the show by her stylish brother Zakari

There is also a 10-person restriction at public gatherings with attendees at weddings and parties limited to 30.

Gyms and other indoor sporting facilities will also remain closed and it remains mandatory for all pedestrians to wear face masks in public areas in the capital.

The move comes as the president tries to avoid imposing a full lockdown across the country with the French economy already set to shrink by 8.7 per cent this year.

Style: Tina added another pop of colour by wearing a bright red lipstick

The French government recently announced that it would be pumping 100billion (91billion) into the economy as part of a recovery plan.

Politician Macron hopes that this will help the French economy to get moving again by 2022.

Paris Fashion Week, which is set to host presentations by Kenzo, Kenneth Ize and Schiaparelli, will end on October 6.
One of the world's most wanted men on Wednesday lost his appeal against being handed over to an international court to be tried for his alleged role in the 1994 Rwandan genocide.



The Court of Cassation in Paris upheld an order from a lower court that Felicien Kabuga be handed over to a UN tribunal on charges including genocide, persecution and extermination.



Kabuga, born in 1933 or 1935, was a wealthy businessman at the time of the atrocities in which more than 800,000 people were killed.



He had been on the run for more than 20 years when French police tracked him down in May in a Paris suburb where he was living under a false name.



An indictment from the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR) alleges that he chaired a radio station that helped orchestrate the genocide against the Tutsi ethnic minority.



The notorious Radio Television Libre des Milles Collines allegedly called for the elimination of Tutsis and told listeners who they were and where to find them.



Without that radio station, "I think that I can say, without committing an error, that the genocide would not have happened," Richard Gisagara, a lawyer for the Communaute Rwandaise de France genocide survivors' group, told the press after the lower court ruling in June.



Kabuga is also accused of agreeing with others to create and fund a genocidal militia in the capital, Kigali, and establishing a fund to finance the killings.

The genocide only ended when the opposition Tutsi Rwandan Patriotic Front invaded the country from neighbouring Uganda and seized control.



Rwandan prosecutors have said in the past that financial documents found in Kigali after the genocide indicated that Kabuga used his companies to import vast quantities of machetes from China that were used to slaughter victims.



According to a French prosecution dossier, Kabuga had "lived with impunity in Germany, Belgium, Congo-Kinshasa, Kenya and Switzerland" since the genocide.



Prosecutors have said that investigators lost his trail in 2007.



Kabuga's lawyers had cited his frail health as a reason why his human rights would be jeopardized if he were transferred to the jurisdiction of the International Residual Mechanism on Criminal Tribunals.



The body took over outstanding cases when the ICTR was wound up between 2012 and 2015. It tries its

Rwandan cases in Arusha, in neighbouring Tanzania.



But the Court of Cassation ruled that the lower court had already given proper consideration to the defence arguments about Kabuga's health when it ordered him to be handed over.



No further appeal against the extradition is possible in the French legal system, although his lawyers could take a case to the European Court of Human Rights.



In Kigali, Naphtal Ahishakiye, executive secretary of genocide survivors' organization Ibuka, told dpa that Kabuga's pending trial shows that even if much time has passed since the events, bringing perpetrators to justice is still vital.



"The crime of genocide does not get old, but also it means that other suspects still at large will one day face justice," said Ahishakiye. "It gives hope to survivors when they see those who wronged them face justice."

Source: GNA









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First, I wish to apologize to James Farmer for getting his first name wrong in my letter of Sept. 10.

Second, I would like to offer opposition to his claim that mail-in voting is corrupt, which he made in an Aug. 27 letter and attempted to support in a Sept. 22 letter. This is particularly important because Trump regularly rails against mail-in voting as corrupt without providing any details, facts or proof supporting his statements.

After the 2016 election, Trump claimed that more than 3 million illegal ballots were cast, and created the Voting Integrity Commission (Mike Pence, Kris Kobach) to prove it. The commission quietly disbanded later without finding any proof. Now Trump seeks to undermine the 2020 election before it happens by claiming mail-in ballots are corrupt.

Repeating this claim without proof undermines the legitimacy of our election. Mr. Farmer responded to my call for proof of corruption in Oregons mail-in voting by saying Communists never lose elections in Russia or China and progressives never lose in Oregon.

I dont believe either Russia or China has used mail-in voting going into 2020. I believe Democratic victories in Oregon are probably better explained by their 34% to 25% advantage in registered voters. Fact: Oregon has had a Republican Secretary of State since 2017, yet no outcry of voting corruption.

An analysis of the 2016 and 2018 elections in three vote-by-mail states (Oregon, Washington, Colorado) found 372 possible cases of illegal voting in 14,600,000 votes cast (.0025%).

Vote in November.

Stan Sahnow

Corvallis

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A special court here has said the CBI did not probe on an "important" secret information that people from Pakistan intelligence agency may have also entered and damaged the disputed Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid in Ayodhya to foment communal disturbances in the country.

Special Judge S K Yadav referred to inconsistencies in testimonies of several prosecution witnesses while holding that the charge of criminal conspiracy to demolish the structure and other charges were not proved against 32 high-profile accused in the case.

In the 2,300 page-long verdict written in Hindi, the judge said the Central Bureau of Investigation's (CBI) case became weaker or "forceless" in view of the fact that it did not probe and ruled out the Pakistan angle to the demolition to make the criminal conspiracy charge stand the judicial scrutiny.

The special CBI judge observed this on Wednesday in the judgement while acquitting the accused, including veteran BJP leaders L K Advani and M M Joshi, of conspiring to raze the structure among other charges.

The court said the CBI's allegations against the accused persons "become forceless also because it did not investigate a report sent by Local Intelligence Unit (LIU) on December 5, 1992, that on December 6, 1992, some persons from Pakistani intelligence agencies may cause damage to the disputed structure after merging with the local crowd".

Also read: Babri demolition meticulously planned, some of the 32 categorically took responsibility: Justice Liberhan

It noted that there were local intelligence reports that on December 2, 1992, itself some 'majaar' (shrine) were broken and set on fire by persons from the Muslim community with an aim to vitiate the communal atmosphere so that 'kar seva' (voluntary service) may be interrupted.

It cited an LIU report, which was signed by Inspector General (security), Uttar Pradesh, that said "persons related to Pakistani intelligence agencies have merged with the masses in Ayodhya and they may create unrest in the state and the country by damaging the disputed structure with explosives and other means".

The court also noted that there were reports that explosives originated from Pakistan had reached Ayodhya via Delhi, while another intelligence report had warned the administration that "about 100 persons, including anti-social/anti-national elements, from Udhampur area of Jammu and Kashmir are coming to Ayodhya in the garb of kar sevaks (volunteers)".

The reports were received by authorities concerned and acted upon, the court observed.

"This information was sent to Principal Secretary (Home), Uttar Pradesh, and the state's all security agencies were informed about the same in written form.

"Despite having such crucial information, these aspects were not investigated," the judge said.

The case is related to the razing of the disputed structure in Ayodhya on December 6, 1992, which triggered riots for several months leaving nearly 2,000 people dead across the country.

The structure was demolished by 'kar sevaks' who claimed that the 16th century Babri mosque in Ayodhya was built on the site of an ancient Ram temple.

The 32 accused include former deputy prime minister Advani, former Union ministers Joshi and Uma Bharti, former Uttar Pradesh chief minister Kalyan Singh during whose tenure the structure was pulled down, besides Vishva Hindu Parishad leaders Vinay Katiyar and Sadhvi Rithambara.

Charges were framed against 49 people, but 17 (including stalwarts like Ashok Singhal, Balasaheb Thackeray, Vijayraje Scindia) have died during the course of the trial.

The serious criminal conspiracy charge against the accused was first dropped by the trial court in 2001. The verdict was upheld by the Allahabad High Court in 2010, but the Supreme Court ordered restoration of the conspiracy charge against the accused on April 19, 2017.

The charge of conspiracy was in addition to other charges, including promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion.

The CBI had argued that the accused conspired and instigated 'kar sevaks' to demolish the 16th century mosque.

However, the accused had pleaded innocence, maintaining there is no evidence to prove their guilt and claiming that they were implicated by the then Congress government at the Centre as political vendetta.
While Russians largely went back to a normal life this summer, President Vladimir Putin stays put at his out-of-town residence and holds most of his meetings by video conference - Alexei Druzhinin/Sputnik via AFP

Four months after Russia relaxed most of its coronavirus restrictions, President Vladimir Putin effectively remains in lockdown, with his staff and the few people he meets placed under an obligatory two week-quarantine before getting anywhere near him, it was revealed this week.

The 67-year-old Russian leader, who has always been health-conscious, initially downplayed the threat of Covid-19.

However, when the city of Moscow imposed a strict lockdown at the end of March he retreated to his out-of-town residence and stopped receiving visitors.

Mr Putin declared a tentative victory over coronavirus in June, anxious to hold a nationwide vote on constitutional amendments that allowed him to stay in power for at least two more terms.

While most Russians resumed socialising and travelling over the summer, Mr Putin, who typically has a busy travel schedule, remains a recluse, holding all but a few of his meetings via conference calls.

Journalists who cover the Russian presidents work as part of the Kremlin press pool told the Telegraph that print correspondents have not been invited to Kremlin events since March.

They say that the few photographers and cameramen who got to see Mr Putin have been required to spend two weeks in quarantine.

A journalist who has worked in Mr Putins press pool for several years told the Telegraph that he spent three weeks in quarantine at a government compound in south-west Moscow where he was confined to his room before covering a meeting.

He then had to take three Covid-19 tests before he was taken to Mr Putins Novo-Ogaryovo residence.

Despite all the precautions, he was not allowed within 30 metres of the president.

The unusually strict arrangements were first reported by Russian investigative media outlet Proyekt which interviewed several officials and top managers at state-owned conglomerates who confirmed that they were quarantined for 14 day before meeting Mr Putin in person.

Story continues

While Mr Putin was staying at his residence in the Black Sea resort of Sochi this summer, all of his staff and visitors were confined to two nearby resorts, which were closed to visitors, according to the journalist.

Mr Putins staff and visitors were not allowed to leave their rooms at the Dagomys sanatorium until they showed two negative coronavirus tests.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko - Russian Presidential Press Service via AP

After that they were moved to the Rus sanatorium, also known as the clean one, where Kremlin staff and visitors were free to take walks and socialise.

Asked about the reports, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that some of the people who recently met with Mr Putin did self-isolate for 14 days but insisted that it was not obligatory for everyone.

Embattled Belarusian president Alexander Lukashenko, who claims to have had coronavirus, met Mr Putin in Sochi last month without any attempt at social distancing.

The Kremlin faced criticism this summer for sending Second World War veterans to a resort to keep them in isolation before they met Mr Putin for the Victory Day parade.

The Kremlin insisted that it was done for the veterans safety.

Russia on Thursday posted 9,000 new coronavirus cases, a dramatic uptick compared to a week earlier when the number of new infections hovered around 6,000.

Authorities in Moscow, the countrys biggest proponents of strict lockdown measures, last week issued stay-at-home orders for residents over 65 and urged companies to send office workers back home as the number of new cases began to surge.
Eagle Mat and Floor Products Announces Its Biggest Sale Ever for Autumn 2020 We thought this would be a good time to offer large discounts to those who may not have it in their budget to pay full price during this period of insecurity and uncertainty

Eagle Mat and Floor Products announced their biggest sales event ever this morning. Now through October 4th, all customers will have the opportunity to save 5% off orders over $250, 7.5% off orders over $500 and 10% off orders over $1,500. The discount can be applied to any new order by entering the coupon code AUTUMN2020 during checkout at EagleMat.com.

Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, times are tough and both people and businesses are hurting financially. We thought this would be a good time to offer large discounts to those who may not have it in their budget to pay full price during this period of insecurity and uncertainty, said Steven Blumberg, President of Eagle Mat and Floor Products.

EagleMat.coms floor mat collection includes entrance mats, recessed grill mats, clean room mats, anti-fatigue mats and custom logo mats. These products keep employee areas safe, clean, dry and comfortable throughout long business hours. In addition to mats, the company also offers premium quality elevator wall pads, automatic wet umbrella wrappers, stair treads, wall and corner guards, and crowd control stanchions (among many other items) designed to preserve interior conditions and keep buildings organized and looking new and well-maintained.

For commercial properties and facilities, high traffic areas at entrances, in vestibules, and lobbies require the utmost attention to detail and safety. Eagle Mats recessed mats, cocoa mats and grill mat systems are among their most popular products for these purposes. Eagle Mat is proud to carry a wide variety of recessed floor mats and grill mat products from industry leading brands. Anti-fatigue mats are also widely popular for businesses looking to increase employee morale and productivity.

For businesses of any size, logo floor mats are among the most popular items offered on the website. These are ideal for entrances, lobbies, and reception areas, but custom logo mats can offer a lasting impression for visitors in any office or commercial environment. Eagle Mats logo mats are crisply designed and printed or inlaid using industry-leading technology. Plus they are a great way to promote and market a business.

With rain and snowstorms forthcoming in Q4 2020, now is the opportune time to begin preparations. In addition to floor mats prevent floors from becoming slippery and wet, Automatic Wet Umbrella Wrappers provide a hands-free system for the ultimate convenience and safety. This allows visitors, customers and patrons alike to wrap wet umbrellas in a disposable plastic bag quickly and easily, without having to touch parts or pieces that was just previously handled by another person. This is an ideal way to prevent rainwater accumulations, puddles and slip-and-fall hazards, all without sharing and germs or bodily fluids.

Eagle Mat is actively involved with commercial properties, businesses and facilities around the country and the world. With todays major concerns regarding COVID-19, facility managers and business owners are more conscious than ever about safety for their visitors, customers and employees. Commercial floor mats are specifically designed for this purpose. For more details about products and services, contact Eagle Mats service experts at (877) 333-1018 or visit https://www.eaglemat.com.

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Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 01:47:37|Editor: huaxia

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ROME, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- Italy's exports to China grew by 4.8 percent in August this year compared to the same month last year, even as Italian exports towards non-European Union (EU) countries overall dropped by 11.7 percent in the same period, according to the latest data issued by Italy's National Statistics Institute (ISTAT).

This comes after exports to China from Italy jumped by 14 percent in July compared to the same month last year.

The two months' steady increase in exports from Italy to China came after two months of the downturn: Italian exports to China fell by 3.3 percent in June 2020 compared to June 2019, and by a whopping 25.6 percent in May 2020 compared to the same month last year, according to ISTAT.

However, the 25.6-percent drop in May -- when the Italian economy first emerged from a two-month anti-COVID lockdown -- came amid a 31-percent fall in Italy's exports to non-EU countries overall, ISTAT reported.

A POSSIBLE EXPLANATION

A look at a recent analysis by the Milan-based Institute for International Political Studies (ISPI), an influential think tank, provides a possible explanation for why Italy's exports to China seem to be recovering in the wake of the pandemic, while exports to its other trading partners lag.

The analysis, which looks at the impact of the pandemic on the global economy, points out that China was the first country in the world to successfully contain the pandemic and restart its economy.

"In the second quarter of the year, thanks also to the easing of (anti-COVID-19) containment measures, China came out of recession," the ISPI report said, calling this positive outcome "an absolute exception among the Group of Twenty (G20) nations."

According to forecasts by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the global economy will contract by 4.9 percent due to the spread of the new coronavirus and its effects, the ISPI report explained.

However, this contraction "will not be perceived in the same way by the various countries and regions of the world," wrote Alessandro Gili, an associate research fellow at the ISPI Center for Infrastructure and Business Scenarios.

"The different levels of exposure to the (COVID-19) illness, the different strategies and capacity for recovery in both the short and the long term... will be key elements in the post-COVID scenario," Gili wrote.

In its "China 2020" annual report, the Study Center for Businesses of the Italy China Foundation (CeSiF, in its Italian acronym), wrote that "China is central in the relaunch strategies of exporting companies after COVID-19" because although its economy slows down due to the pandemic, its growth will still be higher than that of other countries.

WHAT ITALY EXPORTS TO CHINA

Italy exported to China goods worth a total of 14.54 billion U.S. dollars during 2019, according to the United Nations COMTRADE database on international trade.

The top-selling categories of Italian exports to China in 2019 were machinery (4.41 billion dollars) and pharmaceutical products (1.07 billion dollars).

These categories were followed by vehicles other than trains and trams (734.99 million dollars), apparel (677.52 million dollars), and electrical and electronic equipment (628.94 million U.S. dollars), according to COMTRADE and Trading Economics.

In 2019, Italian exports to China made up 2.7 percent of Italy's total foreign trade, according to ISTAT. Enditem
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When entering a stressful and demanding career, its important for individuals to maintain their mental and physical health as they strive for a balance between their professional and personal life. There were times when I felt so defeated and worn-out by my job that I doubted my abilities as a physician. In retrospect, I understand that I was experiencing burnout and that I simply didnt have the resources to work through it properly. Luckily, there is a multitude of strategies that can be integrated into your life to prevent and resolve this!

Burnout is a phenomenon that manifests when one is being overworked without receiving downtime for family, hobbies, or mental rest. Most physicians will experience it at some point in their careers, so it is crucial to understand how to deal with it. Burnout can have detrimental consequences within the personal life of a medical professional, their family, and employer but can be resolved if the individual moves forward with intentionality. The life of a physician is hard, but the fruit is worth the labor of the harvest, so I encourage you to put forth the effort it takes to defeat burnout.

Leading causes of physician burnout

Work overload including increased intensity and time spent at the workplace

Stress caused by copious amounts of student debt and other financial pressure

Lack of trust and cohesion within the work environment

Feeling under-appreciated for your diligence and accomplishments

Feeling alone, isolated, and unsupported by colleagues and peers

Neglecting self-care, family, and mental health for the sake of work

Chapter author of Career and Life Planning Guidebook for Medical Residents, Shawn C. Jones, MD, asserts that over half of all physicians suffer from burnout, which is characterized by depersonalization, loss of enthusiasm for the profession, and cynicism. Youve worked so hard to become a doctor, but your success is in vain if you are too exhausted to enjoy the life that youve created for yourself. As a physician, you cannot allow your job to deprive you of the fulfillment and joy that life has to offer; it is simply not worth it.

Consequences for hospitals

Dissatisfied patients and low ratings

More physicians choosing to leave the field

A decrease in engagement and poor teamwork

An increase in errors which equals more malpractice suits

Consequences for individuals

Substance abuse

Deteriorated mental health

Suicide or suicidal thoughts

Friction and conflict in relationship and marriages

Leaving the field and seeking other employment

Fortunately, theres an abundance of strategies to help both employers and physicians avoid these consequences. If you feel burned out, youre probably moving too fast, so slow down, evaluate your priorities, and be patient with yourself. Sometimes we need to relish the simple moments in life and just breathe!

How to prevent and resolve burnout

For employers:

Ensure physicians have adequate access to mental health resources.

Practice regular check-ins with employees.

Place importance on employee satisfaction and self-care.

Address workplace satisfaction and employee concerns.

Provide frequent recognition and appreciation for physicians who are positively impacting patients

For physicians:

Reevaluate your priorities and self-reflect.

Discover what hobbies and pastimes make you happy and designate time to do them.

Maintain your physical health by getting plenty of sleep and exercising regularly.

Prioritize your personal life in addition to your work/life to create a healthy balance.

Switch things up- go on adventures and be spontaneous when you get the opportunity.

Be present in your day-to-day life and take notice of the meaningful aspects of your job.

Remind yourself of what made you want to become a doctor.

Dont over commit and learn to say no.

Practice gratitude constantly and celebrate small victories!

Physicians enter the workforce with the intent to help people and make a difference, and these greater goals can be lost under the weight of imbalance between work life and personal life. Physician burnout can leave you unmotivated, so remember our job is meaningful, and your work changes lives. However, it is possible to work too hard, and you have a right to relax and savor the small moments in life. At the end of the day, you became a doctor to create a good life for you and your family, so remember to enjoy it.

Todd Skertich is managing partner, Arlington Healthcare and founder, Adventures in Medicine and Physician Career Planning. He is the author of The Art of Physician Negotiation and can be reached on Twitter @adventuresinmed.

Image credit: Shutterstock.com
An Afghan official says at least nine people were killed when a suicide car bomber attacked a military checkpoint in the southern province of Helmand.

Four civilians, including two women, were among those who died in the late September 30 attack in the Nahri Sarah district, according to Omer Zwak, a spokesman for the provincial governor.



A child and three security personnel were also wounded.



No one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, but Taliban militants are in control of most of Helmand Province.



The suicide bombing comes as Taliban and Afghan government negotiators are meeting in Qatar to try to find a way to put an end to 19 years of war in the country.

Violence has continued across the country despite the peace talks in Doha, which kicked off on September 12, as the Taliban are refusing a nationwide cease-fire.



The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan has documented more than 1,280 Afghan civilian deaths during the first half of 2020 -- mainly as a result of fighting between Afghan government forces and Taliban militants.

With reporting by AP
Actor Shekhar Suman has tweeted about late actor Irrfan Khans grave, calling it unkempt. Shekhar said the industry should come together and build a grave for Irrfan in white marble.

Sharing a picture of Irrfans son Ayaan tending to his grave, Shekhar wrote, This is d late actor Irrfan Khans grave.Does it teach anything about life?After all the fame n adulation,International acclaim,you lie alone in an unkempt grave.Can the industry wake up and at least get this place done in white marble wid a loving epitaph?

This is d late actor Irrfan Khan's grave.Does it teach anything about life?After all the fame n adulation,International acclaim,you lie alone in an unkempt grave.Can the industry wake up and at least get this place done in white marble wid a loving epitaph? pic.twitter.com/nJWTspC53M  Shekhar Suman (@shekharsuman7) September 30, 2020

Earlier, a fan had also expressed concern over Irrfans resting place on a post shared by his wife Sutapa Sikdar. Dear Sutapa, recently I saw a photo of Irrfan bhais graveyard. I was heart broken, cause its only few months and his graveyard looks like trash dumpster. I thought you planted Rat ki Rani, since he loved that plant. What happened? If the photo is real, then its a crying shame. If you have a real recent photo of the graveyard, please Post it, the comment read.

Replying to it, Sutapa said women are not allowed to enter a Muslim graveyard. Women are not allowed in Muslim graveyards.hence I have planted the raat Ki Rani in Igatpuri where I have a memory stone of his...where I have buried his fav things .I own that place Where I can sit for hours without any one telling me I cant sit next to him. He is there in his spirit. But that doesnt mean the graveyard shouldnt be tended ..but as far as how is a very questionable thing... The wild plants grass have grown in rains.. Its wild and beautiful is what I saw in the photo you are mentioning..its rains and plants come and they wither in the next season..and then one can clean it. Why should everything be exactly as per definition.. And the plants have grown may be for a purpose look closely.

Also read: Abhishek Banerjee plays a romantic character for first time in PariWar, fulfils all 3 criteria needed for his moms approval

Later, Babil also shared picture of his brother at the grave. Baba liked it wild, Ayaan is staying strong :* mamma recently wrote about the wilderness around when some of his fans were worried that it looked unkempt, I need you to understand, he always always wished to be surrounded by the grass and the plants and the trees. Waste and plastic is always removed from that wilderness, he wrote.

Irrfan died on April 29 after a two-year battle with neuroendocrine tumour. He was buried at the Versova Muslim Kabrastan in Mumbai.

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Sitting at a table with his top aides and two Arab suppliers, Antonio Tejon, the infamous leader of the Castana drug clan, issues an order: Right now I am free, but at any moment I could go to jail. Everyone is going to get paid; I dont want anyone begging. But we have to recover everything we have lost.

The meeting took place on September 3 in an apartment in Sotogrande, a luxury gated community in San Roque, in southern Spain, according to a Civil Guard officer working in the area. Forty-eight hours later, a policeman was seriously injured after being rammed by an SUV protecting a drug shipment in Algeciras, in Cadiz province.

It was not the first attack on a police officer  in fact, it came on the back of three other assaults  but it was the one that made the Civil Guard and National Police conclude that the string of attacks was not a coincidence. It was a clear sign that the order had come from above, says an officer specializing in the fight against hashish trafficking. Now, with more than a dozen wounded officers between the southern provinces of Cadiz and Malaga, the Civil Guard officer who described the Sotogrande meeting of the Castana clan goes further in his analysis. They are broke and desperate. [...] The places where they hide the drugs are empty. They are at the end of their rope.

This desperation has meant the drug traffickers are reverting to behavior that is familiar to police in Campo de Gibraltar, in Cadiz province. The decision to ram powerful, stolen SUVs into patrol cars during a bust is a reminder of the lawless era between 2017 and early 2018, when drug traffickers acted with complete impunity. Now, officers are concerned not only about the ramming tactics but also the increasing number of weapons being seized. Before this, finding them [the weapons] was the exception and they were generally used as a means of defense against other organizations, to avoid being robbed, says one officer in Malaga. Now, it is getting more dangerous. But nothing will be done about it until something more serious happens.

For some time now, arrested drug traffickers have been warning the police that they would face consequences for trying to shut down the cartels. The warnings came in response to the Interior Ministrys special security plan, which since mid-2018 has made it more difficult to transport hashish over the Strait of Gibraltar, hurting the million-euro trade. Now, the coronavirus lockdown in March and subsequent police investigations have increased the drug traffickers frustration. And while the stashes of hashish are rapidly diminishing, demand from the Spanish and European markets remains high.

On the Cantabrian coast [in northern Spain], the price of hashish has tripled, explains the officer specialized in hashish traffic. Although less is coming in, more is at stake. Meanwhile, the Civil Guard is acutely aware that there is a monumental increase in the production of marijuana in Spain. It is tremendous and it could damage the hashish [trade], he adds. It has the appeal of being labeled as natural and it is taking over. It could be part of the reason they [the Castana clan] are trying to regain lost ground.

Meanwhile, according to the Malaga officer, the drug lords have made it clear that the merchandise has to reach its destination at all costs. They are paying their employees more as they have to take more risks, he explains.

Drug shortages

Many of the Civil Guard agents in the area recognize that the attacks bear the hallmarks of Antonio Tejon who, together with his brother Francisco, better known as Isco, controls the hashish drug trafficking business in southern Spain, bringing them an estimated fortune of 30 million.

Antonio was released from prison in July after a judicial error and he soon made it clear that he was not about to turn his back on his business. But in the meeting in San Roque on September 3, he indicated that the current situation has left him little option but to pay his team, spend his remaining cash resources, which have been heavily depleted by police raids, and do what it takes to restock supply. The trademark tactic is to ram the vehicle in front into the patrol car while the vehicle behind, which is loaded with drugs, makes its getaway, says an officer working in Cadiz. Thats what he [Antonio Tejon] made clear during the meeting with his people when he told them that the money had to be recovered.

Sources who spoke to EL PAIS are not sure which direction the drug trade will take next, given the current uncertainty. As he himself predicted, Antonio Tejon returned to prison in mid-September and left one of his members in charge of the Castana clan. Though demand continues to rise, drugs in southern Spain are scarce as the officers gain the upper hand despite the attacks. They [drug traffickers] are beginning to get scared, says a Civil Guard agent from Campo de Gibraltar. There is no hashish and no money. And although they are trying to recover some of the lost ground with marijuana, it wont be the same. We will see.

Expansion along the coast

Drug trafficking in the Strait of Gibraltar works on the basis of communicating vessels. If the police block one entry point, another one pops up, as Francisco Mena, president of the anti-drug federation Nexos, frequently points out.

Now that the police have a stranglehold on the area, drug gangs have been increasingly moving up the coast to Estepona, Manilva, Marbella, Fuengirola and Mijas. They have even reached as far as La Axarquia, in Malaga province.

Another departure from traditional business practice is an incident in San Fernando where a narco boat offloaded 900 kilograms of hashish in broad daylight at a spot on the Bay of Cadiz located near the popular Bahia del Sur shopping mall, and later concealed the shipment inside a house in Chiclana de la Frontera.

English version by Heather Galloway.
Accor, a world-leading hospitality group, has partnered with Al Raya Estate Group, a pioneer in the field of real estate development in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and the UK to operate the new Swissotel Living Jeddah.



With an opening date scheduled for 2021, the project will be attached to (J View) - an exemplary mixed-use development comprised of hospitality, office, food and beverage and retail components.



Fahad Al-Alloush, CEO of Al Raya Real Estate said: Our core business is to develop and manage real estate in the hospitality, residential and commercial sector. This Project (J View) is offering a high standard mix of all with its primary component being the serviced apartments.



We decided to proceed with the Accor Group to introduce the Swissotel Living Brand into the market of Jeddah due to its leadership and expertise in extended-stay brands. We believe Vision 2030 is definitely boosting the transformation of the Saudi tourism and hospitality market, and we are looking forward to explore more opportunities along with Accor in the kingdom.



The project will benefit from its highly strategic location on Prince Saud Al Faisal Street, proximity to Jeddahs main roads and the Jeddah Corniche, with breath-taking views of the red sea and numerous family and leisure landmarks situated along it.



The project will feature 150 serviced residences including 53 studios, 75 one-bedroom units and 23 two-bedroom units, in addition to an all-day-dining restaurant, a lobby cafe and pool lounge, nearly 400 sq m of meeting space, an outdoor/indoor gaming area, a fitness centre and a rooftop swimming pool.



This is a project we are extremely excited to launch. The stature of the project and its strategic location amid a plethora of demand generators around the central business district of Jeddah, will allow the Swissotel Living Jeddah to actively attract a variety of demand segments, said Mark Willis, CEO of Accor Middle East and Africa.



Our extensive research in the Saudi market highlights the growing demand from KSA travellers to stay in serviced apartments and benefit from the additional space with kitchenette facilities and privacy. The opening of our first premium stand-alone serviced residences in Jeddah within a high quality mixed-used development is a great opportunity to meet the demand and it will strongly add to Accors credentials of being a leader in the extended stay segment.



Once it opens its doors, Swissotel Living Jeddah will complement Accors presence in Saudi Arabia, marking the debut of the Swissotel Living brand in the kingdom and paving the way for more development opportunities in the extended stay segment within the country.



Accor currently operates 39 properties in KSA (14,314 rooms) with 34 more properties (10,035 rooms) in the pipeline.  TradeArabia News Service
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Linkedin Dzulfiqar Fathur Rahman (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Thu, October 1, 2020 19:12 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4885e0a 1 Business MSMEs,shut-down,UNIDO,COVID-19 Free

The majority of small businesses might have to shut down within six months, as the restrictions aimed at containing COVID-19 are bringing the Indonesian economy to a standstill and destroying their revenues, according to a survey by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).

Some 60 percent of small businesses might only survive six months if the pandemic restrictions were still in place, according to the survey, which involved 147 small businesses and was conducted between June and July.

There is a set of relevant policies that can be drafted based on the findings of the survey, to help industries and SMEs [small and medium enterprises] to overcome the impacts of COVID 19, Esam Alqararah, the UNIDO representative for Indonesia and Timor Leste said in a statement on Tuesday.

UNIDO suggested that the government offer a wage subsidy to help small businesses retain their workers, while also doubling down on its collaboration with e-commerce platforms to help SMEs keep selling their products amid the pandemic restrictions.

Industry 4.0 can also enhance the SME supply chain, business performance, improve digital enterprise, open new manufacturing, technological career opportunities and integrate the human capacity in the digital world too, Alqararah said, referring to the fourth industrial revolution.

Indonesias small businesses, which employ the overwhelming majority of the national labor force and contribute around 60 percent to the countrys economy, have been battered by the COVID-19 crisis.

While a Mandiri Institute study shows that digitalized small businesses are more resilient in the global health crisis, the number of small businesses on digital platforms only amounts to around 9 million, or 14 percent of all small businesses, according to the Cooperatives and SMEs Minister Teten Masduki, quoting data from the Communications and Information Ministry.

Read also: Govt bootcamp to prep 30 startups to give SMEs a digital leg up

The government has also earmarked Rp 123.46 trillion (US$8.3 billion) for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as part of its coronavirus relief package. As of Sept. 28, the government had disbursed Rp 79.06 trillion, 64 percent of the budget.

Meanwhile, it has also disbursed nearly Rp 16 trillion, around 72.4 percent, of the budget to 6.6 million MSMEs under the governments productive social assistance program, according to Budi Gunadi Sadikin, the head of the national economic recovery committee on Wednesday.

In line with the Presidents order, we are paying attention to MSMEs because they were the support of Indonesias economy in previous crises, said Budi, who also serves as deputy state-owned enterprises minister, in a separate virtual presser.

UNIDO suggested the Indonesian government improve businesses awareness of access to its relief package.

UNIDOs survey also found that 92 percent of the surveyed micro enterprises were expecting a more than 50 percent year-on-year (yoy) fall in revenue, leaving them the most severely hit sector.

The majority of the micro businesses told the survey they would support the government in issuing a policy that could reduce rent and utility costs to cushion the pandemics impact.

However, around half of the surveyed small businesses were expecting to recover in a month as the pandemic ended, 27 percent expected two to three months, 14 percent four to six months and the remaining 5 percent, more than six months.

Ikhsan Ingratubun, the chairman of Indonesian MSME Association (Akumindo), said that based on the facts he had gathered from his members, many could only survive for three months during the pandemic-induced revenue slump.

We have faced this since February or March. Many closed in June, Ikhsan told The Jakarta Post in a phone interview on Wednesday,

If their revenue remains only 10 to 15 percent [of the normal levels], it will not be enough to fund their expenses. We therefore estimate they will only last three months, Ikhsan added.

However, how long small businesses can survive the pandemic may differ from one region to another, according to the chairman.
But what if the assassin loses her nerve and cant do it? "Possessor answers that question. The result isnt easy viewing in the ooh! exciting! realm of more conventional mind-control thrillers. But the best of Cronenbergs nightmare is pure, imaginative immersion. As Vos experiences flashbacks to stabbings (the movies full of em) she has committed by way of Tates mind and body, editor Matthew Hannam attacks the screen with deft, eyeblink-quick images of her memories. The movie takes its violence seriously, mostly, and by making it seem and feel like too much for Vos to bear, theres a moral chill to the story.
Web pages and articles that mentioned Amy Barretts father, Michael Coney Sr., who has served as the principal leader of People of Praises New Orleans branch and was on the groups national board as recently as 2017, also disappeared. And a 2006 magazine story about Barretts parents that referred to Linda Coney as a handmaid, a female leader assigned to help guide other women, was also deleted. The article noted that five of the Coneys seven children were People of Praise members, though it did not say which ones.
The Maritime Union of Australia has suspended its campaign of industrial action against stevedoring company Patrick at ports around the country without a pay deal.

Federal government ministers and industry organisations had claimed the union's strategy could hurt farmers and imperil medicine supplies if it continued for long enough.

Industrial action at the nation's wharves has been stopped. Credit:Lousie Kennerley

The union's move averted a showdown originally scheduled for Thursday at the Fair Work Commission, which the company had asked to terminate the union's industrial campaign, but the fundamental dispute has been left unresolved and the parties could be back where they started by the end of the month.

After a scheduled morning of talks on Wednesday stretched into an extra day, the parties left the negotiations on Thursday with no agreement on pay and conditions for dock workers, which started the dispute seven months ago.
Voters cast their ballot in the midterm election at the Brooklyn Museum polling station in New York on Nov. 6, 2018. (Angela Weiss/AFP via Getty Images)

New York City to Send Out Nearly 100,000 New Mail-In Ballots After Error

New York City election officials are moving forward with a plan to send nearly 100,000 new absentee ballots to voters after they received envelopes with the wrong address and names printed on them.

New York Citys Board of Elections Executive Director Michael Ryan said the boards print vendor, Phoenix Graphics, had a printing run error.

It is isolated to one borough, that would be the borough of Brooklyn, and one print run, Ryan said during a board meeting this week. The error has been caught and corrected moving forward.

To make sure absolutely no disenfranchisement occurs in the borough of Brooklyn, the board demanded the printing company send new ballot packages to every person who may have been affected.

The packages include ballots and envelopes for sending them back. The envelopes had incorrect information printed on them. Some voters also reported that their ballots had incorrect information.

According to Melissa DeRosa, secretary for Gov. Andrew Cuomo, nearly 100,000 people are affected by what happened.

Board of Election employees and volunteers help voters in New York City during the New York Democratic presidential primary elections on June 23, 2020. (Angela Weiss/AFP via Getty Images)

The board didnt respond to a request for comment. A spokesperson told CNN that the issue affected 99,477 voters.

In a statement on Sept. 30, the board told voters to expect to begin receiving replacement ballots during the week of Oct. 9.

Voters who receive duplicates will be instructed to destroy the contents of the previous package. The Board will ensure that the second ballot will be the only one that is counted, the board said in a sentence that was in bold on its website.

Phoenix Graphics President Sal DeBiase said in a statement that the company experienced mechanical-inserting issues when producing the ballots in question.

We estimate this has affected less than 1 percent of the mailings, of what was the first of many absentee-ballot orders for these counties. Future mailings will not be affected, he said.

Phoenix Graphics is in the process of reprinting and mailing all materials to correct the project and will be covering all expenses related to production and postage.

DeRosa told reporters this week during a press briefing that the company sent absentee ballots that said military absentee.

A section of an absentee ballot marked Absentee Military Ballot, that was mailed to a registered voter in the Brooklyn borough of New York. (AP Photo)

There should have been a slash in between those two, so people knew that theyre both military and absentee, not military absentee, DeRosa said. And then the second issue is with their printer, which I believe is based in Rochester. They mismatched the application and the envelope. So there are people who were getting the correct ballot, but not the correct envelope.

Cuomo, a Democrat, said his office was in touch with the State Board of Elections, which he said should take action against the citys Board of Elections.

State Sen. Zellnor Myrie, a Democrat, accused Cuomo of trying to prevent the city board from sending out new ballots, calling the alleged effort straight up disenfranchisement and an affront to our democracy.

Cuomo adviser Rich Azzopardi responded in a statement, saying the Cuomo administration doesnt control the board but is recommending that it just send corrected envelopes, not entirely new packages.

There is nothing wrong with the actual ballots and sending 100,000 duplicate ballots seems to be an over correction, he stated.

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, a Democrat, said the state should change the Board of Elections once and for all, to just create an entirely different structure.

(L) New York state Gov. Andrew Cuomo speaks at a news conference in New York City on Sept. 8, 2020. (Spencer Platt/Getty Images) (R) Mayor Bill de Blasio speaks during a video press conference on the citys response to COVID-19 held at City Hall in New York City on March 19, 2020. (William Farrington-Pool/Getty Images)

Either make it a mayoral agency so we can properly administer elections or come up with some other kind of model where its modern and professional. But what we have now is not working, and the state has not acted to change that, and that is why we have the problem year after year, he told reporters on Sept. 30.

People who got the wrong ballot should call 866-VOTE-NYC and request a new ballot, he said.

President Donald Trump said the situation was a total MESS.

Mayor and Governor have no idea what to do, he said on Twitter. Big Fraud, Unfixable! Cancel Ballots and go out and VOTE, just like in past decades, when there were no problems!

Voters used similar language to describe what happened.

Its a mess, its an absolute mess, Marla Garfield, an editor who lives in Brooklyn, told The Associated Press. The fact they dont know how far reaching it is, is troubling, And you have this moment where really, now this election, this is the one this is happening to?

Victoria Edel, 28, added that she received her younger brothers ballot while he got her mothers and her mother got an envelope of a woman who appeared to live nearby.

It feels like its really easy for a lot of people to be disenfranchised this way, Edel said.
Since first appearing in late 2019, the novel virus, SARS-CoV-2, has had a range of impacts on those it infects. Some people become severely ill with COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus, and require hospitalization, whereas others have mild symptoms or are even asymptomatic.

There are several factors that influence a person's susceptibility to having a severe reaction, such as their age and the existence of other medical conditions. But one's genetics also plays a role, and, over the last few months, research by the COVID-19 Host Genetics Initiative has shown that genetic variants in one region on chromosome 3 impose a larger risk that their carriers will develop a severe form of the disease.

Now, a new study, published in Nature, has revealed that this genetic region is almost identical to that of a 50,000-year old Neanderthal from southern Europe. Further analysis has shown that, through interbreeding, the variants came over to the ancestors of modern humans about 60,000 years ago.

It is striking that the genetic heritage from Neanderthals has such tragic consequences during the current pandemic." Professor Svante Paabo, Human Evolutionary Genomics Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST)

Is severe COVID-19 written in our genes?

Chromosomes are tiny structures that are found in the nucleus of cells and carry an organism's genetic material. They come in pairs with one chromosome in each pair inherited from each parent. Humans have 23 of these pairs. Thus, 46 chromosomes carry the entirety of our DNA - millions upon millions of base pairs. And although the vast majority are the same between people, mutations do occur, and variations persist, at the DNA level.

The research by the COVID-19 Host Genetics Initiative looked at over 3,000 people including both people who were hospitalized with severe COVID-19 and people who were infected by the virus but weren't hospitalized. It identified a region on chromosome 3 that influences whether a person infected with the virus will become severely ill and needs to be hospitalized.

The identified genetic region is very long, spanning 49.4 thousand base pairs, and the variants that impose a higher risk to severe COVID-19 are strongly linked - if a person has one of the variants then they're very likely to have all thirteen of them. Variants like these have previously been found to come from Neanderthals or Denisovans so Professor Paabo, in collaboration with Professor Hugo Zeberg, first author of the paper and a researcher at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology and Karolinska Institutet, decided to investigate whether this was the case.

They found that a Neanderthal from southern Europe carried an almost identical genetic region whereas two Neanderthals from southern Siberia and a Denisovan did not.

Next, they questioned whether the variants had come over from Neanderthals or had been inherited by both Neanderthals and present-day people through a common ancestor.

If the variants had come from interbreeding between the two groups of people, then this would have occurred as recently as 50,000 years ago. Whereas, if the variants had come from the last common ancestor, they would have been around in modern humans for about 550,000 years. But random genetic mutations, and recombination between chromosomes, would have also occurred during this time and because the variants between the Neanderthal from southern Europe and present-day people are so similar over such a long stretch of DNA, the researchers showed that it was much more likely that they came from interbreeding.

Professor Paabo and Professor Zeberg concluded that Neanderthals related to the one from southern Europe contributed this DNA region to present-day people around 60,000 years ago when the two groups met.

Neanderthal variants pose up to three times the risk

Professor Zeberg explained that those who carry these Neanderthal variants have up to three times the risk of requiring mechanical ventilation. "Obviously, factors such as your age and other diseases you may have also affect how severely you are affected by the virus. But among genetic factors, this is the strongest one."

The researchers also found that there are major differences in how common these variants are in different parts of the world. In South Asia about 50% of the population carry them. However, in East Asia they're almost absent.

It is not yet known why the Neanderthal gene region is associated with increased risk of becoming severely ill. "This is something that we and others are now investigating as quickly as possible," said Professor Paabo.
The return of two million students to Britains universities has produced a massive rise in Covid-19 cases. As of Tuesday outbreaks had taken place in at least 45 universities around the UK from a total of approximately 130, according to research by Sky News. This represents a more than doubling of the 20 universities reporting outbreaks at the weekend. With around 2 million students in higher education (HE), cases will only grow.

Almost a third of universities have had Covid cases already with the new term just getting underway, and with more students still returning. By September 29, at least 865 Covid-19 cases have been identified among students and staff since HE reopened, according to Sky News. Thousands of students are self-isolating as the new term begins. At Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) approximately 1,700 students were told to isolate for 14 days after 127 tested positive for the virus; at Glasgow University 600 are students isolating after 172 tested positive and at Queen's University Belfast another 100 are isolating after 30 tested positive for the virus.

A statement from Labour Party-run Manchester City Council last Friday said a decision had been taken with the university and Public Health England to "implement a local lockdown for student accommodation at [MMUs] Birley campus and Cambridge Halls" to "stop the transmission of the virus among students and prevent it getting into the wider community."

Students living in two main dorms were told via email to self-isolate in their residences for 14 days, regardless of whether they have symptoms. Further testing revealed that 140 students have tested positive for the virus.

Students are being kept under conditions that will facilitate the uncontrolled spread of the virus. They are stuck in a confined space, having to share communal areas including kitchens. Other students now find themselves living under curfews and banned from the local pubs.

Lawyers are challenging the legal basis of a two-week lockdown. Levins Solicitors said it had seen recordings showing security and accommodation staff stopping students from leaving blocks. Jon Heath, a partner at Levins, accused MMU of operating a shadow enforcement regime. He is acting pro bono for nine students who want urgent clarification of how they were wrongly told on Friday that if they left their halls they would be breaking the law.

Students around the UK have protested their conditions on social media and by putting up statements of protest in the blocks. At the Murano Street Student Village in Glasgow, one sign read, Students Not Criminals.

MMU apologised after reports of students being told via email to remove protest signs from their windows. It said the email "didn't reflect the University's view" and it respected "the rights of students to express themselves," before threatening, "the posters must not break the law or they'll have to be removed."

Many students did not have time to do shopping for basic necessities before being told they were not allowed out. University authorities have done next to nothing to help. MMU Vice-Chancellor Malcolm Press offered locked down students two weeks rent, plus a 50 voucher to spend at a supermarket. The University of Glasgow has made a similar financial offer.

A living support assistant told the Glasgow Guardian, I was on duty the other night and I had a girl phone me saying she hadn't eaten anything for 24 hours because she's high risk and can't leave her room, and no one's left her a food bag or anything

The student was given a food parcel made up of pasta, pot noodles, tinned foods, oats and juice. There's really nothing you can make a meal with in there, it might do you for an hour or two, but you certainly wouldn't be able to survive off that.

The mother of a fresher at the University of Edinburgh took to social media to denounce university authorities who gave her daughter a Mars bar and a croissant for dinner. Her daughter was unable to eat the food as she is a vegan.

Many are refusing to accept being locked down in student halls and are heading home. The Guardian reported how Dan Johnson, studying drama and contemporary performance, said seven of his nine flatmates left the MMU Cambridge halls Sunday evening. They had been isolating for 11 days when the measure was announced, after one person tested positive on September 14.

The government knew the start of the academic year would bring about a resurgence of the virus but continued nevertheless as part of its herd immunity policy. There is no mass testing and tracing arrangements for schools and universities, except at the elite Eton school and Cambridge University. Higher education was reopened when all medical bodies argued against it and urged a switch to online teaching. Had the necessary resources been mobilized, students could have begun their studies at the family home. Instead, students and staff were told that learning must be delivered in a blended manner with online sessions complemented by face to face classes. As with every calculation made by the Conservative government since the beginning of the pandemic, business takes precedence over science, logic, and reason. The HE business model, based on the intensified marketisation of education, revolves around students paying exorbitant fees for their courses and being milked for high rental accommodation costs.

Under conditions of an explosion of the pandemic, the University and College Union's (UCU) general secretary Jo Grady said only, "Students must be allowed to safely return home if they wish to and without fear of financial penalty for leaving their student accommodation. After the union collaborated with the Johnson government and universities to facilitate reopening, Grady cynically complains, "Health and safety should have been the number one concern.

The National Union of Students has done nothing to prevent a return to campus and on its website only asks whether students' shopping habits had been negatively affected by the pandemic. The only advice given to students are a list of safety measures to take in their accommodation, and on campus.

The UCU is calling on their members to continue teaching and take responsibility for their own safety. A letter sent to branch members at MMU by the UCU headed, Urgent advice to all members teaching face to face on campus states, In the attached room plan analyses, you will see that colleagues sitting at desks meant for the lecturer, are NOT 2 metres away from students. It continues, You cannot rely on your desk and chair being set at a 2 metre distance from students, even when the risk assessment documentation says that it is. You must check for yourself.

It advises members to bring in a tape measure and check the distance from where your head will be to where the heads of the students sitting in the front row of seats will be.

If you have taught in a class where you were less than 2 metres from your students for longer than 15 minutes, then this is a close contact and You should self-isolate. If you have been told that there have been cases in your class, but you do not need to self-isolate because you were at a safe 2m distance from your students, lecturers should do nothing other than check the floorplan of the room where you were teaching.

The message ends in larger point size wording, UCU does not recommend that any member refuses to teach. We are not currently in dispute with our employer.

The Socialist Equality Party calls on all educators, teachers, and students to take matters into their own hands and organise independently of the education trade unions in rank and file safety committees. Join the newly founded Educators Rank-and-File Committee and share your experiences since returning to campus and schools with other workers.
HOUSTON, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- FibroGenesis, the leading developer of fibroblast based therapeutic solutions for unmet medical needs has entered into a clinical collaboration agreement with Brazilian R4D Biotech. Holding the world's largest patent portfolio in the field of cell therapies using fibroblasts, FibroGenesis is expanding its ongoing clinical programs internationally. The partnership will pave the way for clinical studies of PneumoBlast in Brazil as a unique treatment of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) for patients affected by COVID-19, in parallel to clinical studies in the United States upon approval by the FDA.

Administration of PneumoBlast in pre-clinical and animal studies resulted in dramatic improvement of immunological signaling molecules, reducing concentrations of the inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1 beta, interleukin-6, interleukin-8, interleukin-17, interleukin-18, and Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha TNFa. Company scientists have also demonstrated that PneumoBlast has induced statistically significant reduction of lung fibrosis and lung scarring in COVID-19 infected animals, particularly when compared to more conventional treatments using bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). Furthermore, recent data supports the potential benefits of PneumoBlast for preventing COVID-19 blood clotting. Both companies will collaborate on a clinical study design that meets the needs of Brazilian patients.

"As the scientific and medical community is discovering more about the biological and medical consequences of the COVID-19 infection, FibroGenesis is eager to contribute to the therapeutic cure options currently being created to fight this global war against this virus," commented Pete O'Heeron, Chief Executive Officer, FibroGenesis. "The collaboration with R4D Biotech is another strategic milestone that emphasizes our commitment to expand fibroblast research globally."

"The lab results which indicate our cell therapy approach possesses both therapeutic effects on animal models of the acute stage of COVID-19, and also benefits a cure for residual pathology seen in COVID-19 patients, has our research team extremely excited," said Thomas Ichim, Ph.D., Chief Scientific Officer, FibroGenesis.

"Technology transfer is at the core of this partnership," said Paulo Ferraz, BRICS/Emerging Markets Director of international fund Newstar Ventures and an advisor for FibroGenesis on this transaction. "R4D Biotech has access to sophisticated resources comprising research facilities and hospitals, and its talent pool includes scientific advisors who are recognized academics and distinguished members of the Brazilian Academy of Pharmaceutical Sciences. PneumoBlast clinical study will represent the first step in a long-term relationship designed to aid in the discovery of advanced therapeutic solutions for chronic medical needs."

About R4D Biotech:

R4D Biotech is a Brazilian emerging company headquartered in the state of Sao Paulo focused on research and development for biotechnology and healthcare, with the mission of bringing disruptive technology innovation across all steps of clinical development in life sciences.

About FibroGenesis:

Based in Houston, Texas, FibroGenesis is a regenerative medicine company developing an innovative solution for chronic disease treatment using human dermal fibroblasts. Currently, FibroGenesis holds 240+ U.S. and international issued patents/patents pending across a variety of clinical pathways, including Disc Degeneration, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's, Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, Cancer, Diabetes, Liver Failure, Colitis and Heart Failure. FibroGenesis represents the next generation of medical advancement in cell therapy.

Visit www.Fibro-Genesis.com.

SOURCE FibroGenesis

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I basically spent five months on this story, four of them pretty much full time, just diving into court records and government documents and talking to people  and talking and talking and talking.

What most surprised me was the continuity of the players and the breadth of the effort to prove that voter fraud is so widespread that its a threat to the fabric of the democracy when it simply is not. Everywhere I looked, there was someone who was involved in some other, earlier effort involved in pushing this voter-fraud idea to gain partisan advantage, from the pre-Trump era.

But then there is the level to which Trump jumped on the bandwagon and directed the full resources of the federal government to get behind the effort  touching the Departments of Justice and Homeland Security, the Postal Service and even, it would seem, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. My eyes popped out of my head when I learned that the C.D.C. had quietly dropped its clear endorsement of mail-in ballots in the summer.

As you describe it, the never-completed recount in Florida in 2000  when supporters of George W. Bush led the so-called Brooks Brothers riot, helping to prevent a number of ballots in Miami-Dade County from ever being counted  was a kind of turning point in the modern era of voter-fraud politics. What did that incident show to Republican operatives, in terms of what might be possible when it comes to using fraud claims as a political tool?

Id always been fascinated with the Brooks Brothers riot, how a bunch of Republican operatives in pleated khakis stormed the Miami-Dade counting room and actually managed to stop canvassers from tallying votes that had not been registered  votes that would have, on balance, gone to Al Gore over Bush.

As I started reporting this story, I went back to the old clips and video and noticed what they were chanting: Stop the fraud. They were effectively arguing that the counting board, which had moved to a more private room to do its work, was hiding because it was committing fraud. There was no evidence whatsoever to support the charge. It was made up. The board stopped counting and didnt pick it back up before the Supreme Court weighed in and Bush was named the winner (his margin was 537 votes).

A lot of factors were involved in Bushs win. But the Brooks Brothers riot had an important lesson in it  you can do a lot in the name of fraud in a chaotic, contested-election situation, which we may very well be headed for this year; it can very well help determine the outcome of an election.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Wednesday extended its ban on passenger cruising from U.S. ports through Oct. 31 after the White House reportedly overruled calls for a further suspension.

The CDC originally issued a no-sail order for cruise ships in U.S. waters on March 14 after hundreds of coronavirus infections and several Covid-19 deaths were reported onboard ships with outbreaks across the world. The CDC previously said "that cruise ship travel exacerbates the global spread of Covid-19" in justifying the order.

Between March 1 and Sep. 29, at least 3,689 probable cases of Covid-19 were reported on cruise ships in U.S. waters, the CDC said in a statement late Wednesday, adding that at least 41 Covid-19 deaths have occurred on cruise ships. The agency added that "these numbers are likely incomplete and an underestimate."

"Recent outbreaks on cruise ships overseas provide current evidence that cruise ship travel continues to transmit and amplify the spread of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19,even when ships sail at reduced passenger capacitiesand would likely spread the infection into U.S. communities if passenger operations were to resume prematurely in the United States," the CDC said in announcing the extension.

CDC Director Dr. Robert Redfield pushed to extend the order until February 2021, according to Axios, which cited two people familiar with the matter. Axios reported that Vice President Mike Pence overruled Redfield and that the plan is to extend the ban until Oct. 31, which coincides with a voluntary suspension announced by the trade group the Cruise Lines International Association.

Executives of the cruise companies and CLIA are planning a meeting at the White House on Friday, CNBC's Seema Mody reported.

The pandemic has hammered shares of the three major publicly traded cruise companies, Royal Caribbean, Carnival Corp and Norwegian Cruise Line. Shares of the three companies are down at least 50% from Jan. 1. However, all three have outpaced broader market gains since hitting their lows in mid-March. Shares of Norwegian are down nearly 70% since Jan. 1, but have clawed back some gains since hitting a 52-week low on March 18. The stock is up more than 100% since then.

The industry has been fine-tuning a public health proposal to resume sailing. Royal and Norwegian have convened a panel of former U.S. health officials and top infectious disease specialists to propose a plan for ensuring safety on cruise ships. Last week, the panel submitted their 60-plus-page report of recommendations to the CDC. It includes proposals for companies to conduct entry testing for all passengers and crew, daily temperature checks, mask recommendations and more.
China: Authorities plant surveillance tracking devices in religious minorities homes

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Chinese Communist Party authorities are planting surveillance devices in the homes of religious minorities to monitor and track those they suspect of threatening the country's authoritarian rule.

In recent years, numerous reports have emerged in which members of The Church of Almighty God (CAG), a religious minority group, recount being targeted for investigation and surveillance by China's Communist Party. The monotheistic new religious movement is on Chinas list of "xie jiao," or cults that are seen as a threat to state security.

Religious liberty magazine Bitter Winter reports that, after being released from prison in 2018, a CAG member from the eastern province of Zhejiang noticed two men installing a new camera by the entrance to her house. This was the fourth one installed there.

The womans mother, also suspected of being CAG member, found a listening device installed behind a washing machine at her home. A few days later, she discovered a micro camera in the garage. When the mother was taken in for interrogation, police officers played a recording of her saying that she was being monitored at home.

In 2018, police arrested a CAG member and interrogated him for 36 hours, requesting information about his wife, son, and sister who were out of town on church matters.

Though under constant surveillance, the father managed to warn his family members not to return home. Police officers continue to visit his home demanding to know the whereabouts of his family.

Additionally, he is required to keep his cellphone on 24 hours a day, while a tracking device was installed on his scooter and a high-definition camera at the only entrance to his residential community.

In September 2019, the government installed two additional surveillance cameras, next to the four existing, opposite the house of a man in his 80s in the northwestern province of Shaanxi.

In October, police searched the home of a CAG member who took care of the man, informing her that he had received information about her through tracking and monitoring devices.

This year, numerous HD facial recognition cameras were installed in some villages in the northern province of Hebei, with some directed at the homes of CAG members, Bitter Winter reports. One of the villages secretaries revealed that the devices had been installed to monitor and arrest believers.

Other religious minority groups  including Christians, Falun Gong and Uighur Muslims  have also experienced increased surveillance and persecution in recent years.

In August, CCP authorities were suspected of hacking a Hong Kong church webinar, monitoring Christians discussing the countrys church-state relations and eventually booting the pastor from the session.

In April, several members of Chinas heavily persecuted Early Rain Covenant Church were arrested by communist authorities for participating in an online Easter worship service on Zoom and ordered to cease all religious activity.

In July, two Chinese cyber thieves sanctioned by the U.S. for targeting firms involved in coronavirus research were also accused of hacking the private emails of a Christian house pastor and sharing them with communist officials, leading to his arrest.

Recently, Sam Brownback, U.S. ambassador at large for International Religious Freedom, detailed how China is employing its most aggressive technology to oppress Uighur Muslims, including sophisticated cameras, chips inside mobile devices, facial-recognition technology, and collecting DNA samples.

They've got technology deployed now where they've got surveillance cameras virtually everywhere in the public, he noted. They've collected genetic data on most of the people in the region to where you can be tracked on the internet, they have facial recognition systems. They could now theoretically close all the concentration camps and you would still live in a virtual police state if you were a Uighur in Xinjiang.

Brownback predicted that China's methods represent the future of religious oppression, adding that the CCPs systems will likely be replicated in other authoritarian regimes around the world.

China has also been labeled by the U.S. State Department as a country of particular concern for continuing to engage in particularly severe violations of religious freedom.


You cant write about Boordy Vineyards and its 75th birthday without focusing some time on Philip Wagner, a newspaperman and winemaking pioneer who along with his wife Jocelyn opened the winery in 1945 in suburban Baltimore.

On the media side, he worked for the Baltimore Sun for almost 35 years, replacing H.L. Mencken as editorial page editor in 1938. A longtime editorial writer, according to his obituary in the New York Times, his interest in wine grew to a point where he and his wife opened the winery while also managing a nursery by the same name. His legacy will remain his promotion of the use of French American hybrids such as Seyval, Vidal and Chambourcin in America.

His book, ''American Wines and How to Make Them,'' was written in 1933 and then revised numerous times before being published by Alfred A. Knopf in 1976 under the title, ''Grapes into Wine: The Art of Wine Making in America.'' The obituary noted that Wagner once described winemaking as ''the perfect foil for the nervous and intellectual strains of newspaper work.''

Finally, his very public disagreement with Dr. Konstantin Frank, who was making his own mark on the industry in New York State, over hybrids vs. vinifera grapes provides part of the timeline and storyline for what ultimately became a successful East Coast wine industry, making the most of grapes from both varieties.

While Wagners significance remains well-known to a number of veterans in the industry, viticulturist Lucie Morton isnt sure that many of its newcomers possess the same awareness or appreciation.

Today, Ill bet if you were in a room at the Eastern Wine Exhibition (EWE) and you asked people who Philip Wagner was to raise their hand, there would be very few hands raised, she said during a recent phone call. The same thing with [Wine Institute founder and The Wines of America] author Leon Adams, who was another of my mentors. I feel a little bit of an obligation to be a living bridge [to both], having known both."

It was Wagners original book, she said, that her father had given his mother as a Christmas present in 1934, and when we were looking for grapes and looking for advice in 1973 to plant the vineyard on our farm [in Virginia], we went and visited Phil and Jocelyn on their farm in Maryland. They left with more than advice, she said; they also brought along the copy of that aforementioned book for Wagner to sign.

An internationally recognized author, ampelographer (someone who identifies grape varieties by their leaves), lecturer, consultant and research collaborator, Morton said it was Wagners books that supplemented her education. We didnt have the internet, so where did someone go for information? You went to Hamilton Mobray [like Wagner, another Maryland winemaking pioneer], who was one. But Philip Wagner, you read his book and you bought his grapes from his nursery. He got us started down this road of European style wines for eastern America but actually providing information on the varieties; his catalog is something.

Per Adams' book, Wagner grew up in Connecticut in a household where his parents drank wine and, after moving to Maryland to join the Sun, he struck up a partnership with a next-door neighbor and began to make wine. While that cultivated his decision to write his book for home winemakers, he was rethinking his options on sourcing grapes, since the end of Prohibition also stopped the availability of his two favorite varieties, Zinfandel and Carignane. When that happened, the reopened wineries were using them in California, wrote Adams in his text.

Jocelyn Wagner bottles Boordy Vineyards' first vintage in the 1940s.

Unhappy with the taste of native American grapes, Wagners interest turned to hybrids. Per Adams, he ordered a supply from Bordeaux, found others already in some American collections, and planted at Baltimore all he could get. By 1936, his wine made from hybrids convinced him that one could grow grapes east of the Rocky Mountains that produced wines that taste like wines. He supplemented the vines from several sources overseas.

By 1945, making more wine than he could drink, he and Jocelyn built and opened Boordy Vineyards. Hed drop off bottles at Baltimore restaurants on his way to work and, if he was busy, his wife would make the deliveries, Adams wrote. Tall and lanky, with a mop of wavy graying hair, Philip Wagner looks more like a college professor than a grape farmer and winemaker, was Adams' assessment, noting that Wagner eventually would retire from his full-time job at the Sun and focus on the nursery and winery. He continued to sell hybrids to farmers throughout the East Coast, including Canada, and as far west as California.

One of those clients was Warren Winiarski, the owner and winemaker of the renowned Stag Leap Wine Cellars in California. The book Maryland Wine  A Full-Bodied History, written by Regina McCarthy, noted that Winiarski was prominently quoted in Wagners obituary, citing his first grapes as being purchased from one of Wagners farmers in Maryland in the 1950s. Im proud to say he was my first and constant teacher, Winiarski said.

Not far from where Wagner has set up shop, Bert Basignini was combining his education at Towson State with the winemaking skills he brought to America from his native Italy. He and his new wife Lynne would plant their first grapes in 1974, a total of six varieties spread among 60 vines.

Bought my first vines from him, read both his books, said Basignani, who would plant 6 more acres of grapes In 1984 and open a winery two years later. I dont think you can overestimate his significance to the wine industry in the East. In the late 70s there were two camps, hybrids versus vinifera. Wagner of course supporting his hybrids and Dr Frank [supporting] vinifera. As things settled out, obviously there is significant production of both. But I am sure that without Phil Wagner I dont think the Eastern wine industry would have achieved the growth it has today.

Carl Helrich and his wife Kris Miller bought Allegro Winery in 2000 from the Crouch brothers, the original owners. Its located in Brogue, in southern York County, and is among the regions oldest, with the original vines dating back to the early 1970s.

I remember my first harvest in the wine industry up at Mount Nittany Winery [outside State College], he said. I was trying to soak up as much as I could about the process, definitely bitten by the wine bug at the time. The owner, Joe Carroll, loaned me his ragged old copy of Wagners Grapes into Wine, saying I should start there.

He did, calling the book practical and down-to-earth. Wagners book was a foundation for many here in the East as most winemaking information hadnt made it here from Europe or California," Helrich said. "Years later, after having assumed ownership of Allegro, I found paperwork from my predecessors that showed invoices where they had purchased hybrid vines for trials from Wagners nursery at Boordy in MD.

The Deford family, owner of Boordy Vineyards in Baltimore County, Maryland.

While some of those Wagner disciples continue in the industry, others such as Bill Gulvin have retired. Gulvin worked in New York state for years before moving to Nissley Vineyards and Winery in Pennsylvanias Lancaster County. He left the business at the end of 2014 with plenty of memories, including meeting Wagner several times during the 1970s and early 1980s and hearing him speak. He also made a trip to Riderwood, the site of Wagners winery, in the late 1970s. He called Wagner one of those rare and gifted individuals who spoke not merely in sentences, but rather in complete, well-structured and considered paragraphs.

Gulvin recalled that the first winery he worked at, Johnson Estate in Westfield, New York, had around 40 acres of hybrid grapes when he started there in 1976. Most of them came from Philip Wagners nursery. Hard to imagine now, but at that time there was very little practical advice available for the small commercial winemaker, Gulvin wrote in an email, adding that Grapes Into Wine as well as Richard Vines Commercial Winemaking published a short while later both valuable resources.

And thereby hangs a tale: It was maybe 1979 or a bit later when I attended a meeting of the Pennsylvania Wine Association in, I believe, Hershey, Gulvin said. Id brought several bottles of wine that Id made, and at the banquet I left a few bottles at various tables that seemed a bit short. I was well into the meal when I felt a tap on my shoulder. It was Philip Wagner, and he congratulated me and shook my hand there and then for finally doing right by the Chancellor grapes that hed sold to Johnson many years earlier. Certainly, Ive been pleased and honored to win many hundreds of medals over my career and to be named the INDY competitions Winemaker of the Year in 2014. But that attaboy from Philip Wagner remains unchallenged as the top honor of my winemaking career.

Much like Morton and her responsibility to carry on what Wagner started, Kevin Atticks shares similar beliefs. The longtime head of the Maryland Wineries Association and the founder of Grow & Fortify, which also represents that states craft distilleries and breweries, said he never met Wagner but heard plenty about him as he began his career. Everyone said I had to read [Wagners] book, Atticks said. I had to learn about what he did, and eventually the road led to [Boordy president and owner] Rob Deford and listening to their half of the story of the transition over to the Deford family. From what those who knew him, and those who were around during the tail end of his work with Boordy, tell me his impact, his influence was immeasurable. We have varieties common in Maryland because he sold them.

Atticks said that the first time he heard Wagners name, he was visiting a winery in Sonoma, California. When he told an individual there that he was from Maryland, he was told that they were getting all their vines from Boordy and Wagner. Beyond the nursery and winery, Atticks said there are stories that Wagner also imported glassware that helped start the use of fine wine glassware in the tasting room.

So lots of stories about his impact, but, of course, he was one those few pioneers up and down the East Coast," Atticks said, and more than some of the others, he had a national reach because of his nursery business. There are vineyards all around the country that owe their start to Philip Wagner and, of course, his book.

One of the labels off one of the Wagners' bottles of Boordy Vineyards wine. They made about 8,000 gallons of wine a year, selling it to restaurants and wine shops in the Baltimore and Washington, D.C., markets, according to the book 'Maryland Wine  A Full-Bodied History.' Wagner's first shipment of wine to Macy's in New York, a total. of 40 cases, cleared out his inventory, the book said.

As Atticks mentioned, the history of the Deford and Wagner families preceded the sale of the winery. The Defords began as suppliers for Wagner in 1965, according to Maryland Wine  A Full-Bodied History. They were part of a network of farmers who grew vines for Wagner, who provided the vines and advice and then would buy the grapes. When the sale took place in 1980, the Wagners moved the equipment from their farm at Riderwood to the current location in Hydes. McCarthy recounts in her book a story about Boordys 15th anniversary under the Defords, who celebrated by bringing in Wagner for a book signing. Anticipating a small turnout, Wagner was shocked at the line out the door. He sat at a stately mahogany desk and signed updated versions of the book he authored, the story went.

He died two years later of emphysema and heart failure at the age of 92.

During a recent interview set up to talk about Boordy and its 75th birthday, Deford spent the first 10 minutes talking about Wagner and his impact on that winery and across Maryland. He was my mentor, Deford said. "Two things I did not learn from him: winemaking and grape growing. What I did learn from him, which was invaluable, was the importance of building an industry and also staying engaged with affairs in those circles that regulate your industry.

I spent a lot of my career in organizations  at one point I was even the chair of WineAmerica for a couple of years  trying to really create an industry that looked more like an industry than sort of a sideshow. That meant creating an environment where competitors would flourish and make everyone better, and thats in fact whats happened. Im not taking credit for it, but Im just saying that was the focus that I learned from Philip Wagner. He had been very active from the very beginning in the precursor to WineAmerica. I got on the board right away as soon as I could get my sea legs under me and stayed on for 25 years.

Later, he would help found the Maryland Wineries Association and serve as its first president as well as its government affairs chairman. All of that stuff really came out of conversations with Philip Wagner in which he said, Look, youve got to be engaged in your industry. Youve got to know whats happening and help shape the future. That was the main lesson I learned from him.

Both Morton and Deford certainly were candid in painting a full picture of Wagner. Morton, who said she began exchanging letters with Wagner and Dr. John McGrew of the U.S. Department of Agriculture while she was working on her thesis on winemaking in eastern America, admitted that she told Deford not to buy Boordy when that opportunity arose, not with its decrepit equipment and a business model built more on his persona than what was in the cellar. It was almost kind of a European farm winery, she said, which means not glamorous. Old wooden barrels and leaky whatever. Just kind of old-fashioned. Even the nursery had its quirks, she said. There were a lot of mixes. When you bought a Seyval Blanc from him, you probably had some red grapes mixed in. We used to call it the Wagner mix. And there were two Merlots and two [Marechal] Foch. He was maybe one step below advanced amateurism. There was a charm about the whole thing.

Philip Wagner's dictionary definition of Boordy.

For Deford, the Wagner-Dr. Konstantin Frank public feud over hybrid vs. vinifera was nettlesome, with Frank claiming the Wagners French-American hybrids were poisoning people and that vinifera should be the style grown on Americas East Coast. He was right, but you have to take into account that climate change has occurred, Deford said. Climate change has made possible what Frank was espousing. Wagner grew vinifera and it died. I witnessed it personally, We were growers for him and we put in vinifera and in 1982 every vine died because were went to 17 below zero. It was a big split over whether you should be planting vinifera or hybrid, and there were claims and counterclaims. It was kind of colorful, to be honest, but it was a different era, and Im glad to have that sort of memory of how things were, have my starting point for the story, and Im glad we moved on.

But not without a final word about Philip and Jocelyn Wagner, who Deford called outstanding pioneers, and I have lots of archival material that really supports that. They were carrying their products around at a time, he said, when it was such an exotic notion that wine even could be made in Maryland.

I think that Philip and Jocelyn, by being pioneers, by showing that regional wines had a place, that.wines that belonged on the dinner table could be grown in the mid-Atlantic and that good quality could be achieved was a huge achievement," Deford summarized. "I also think that given that they had vines in the ground during Prohibition shows a certain foresight on their part. And you know, we as a company started in 1945. I dont know the exact date because I never found the original license [but] think about it, the Great Depression followed by World War II. Thats a helluva time to start a winery, and he told me he got FHA loan number one for Maryland and started in what is now a luxury suburb, but it was Bigfoot country. He just developed a great following because his wines were unpretentious, and, by and large, good.

Now our palates have gotten a lot more sophisticated, and the whole vinifera-hybrid question is sorting itself out based on marketing and quality, which is exactly what should happen, I think, Deford said. "And, so, the wines are speaking louder than the people now, and I love that.
A team of SIU researchers led by Sally Potter-McIntyre, shown here during another geologic field study, recently discovered the Mississippi River began flowing about 70 million years ago, about three times longer than previously thought. Smithsonian Magazine published the finding recently. (Photo provided)

SIU research shows Mississippi River more than three times older than thought

by Tim Crosby

CARBONDALE, Ill.  As its name might suggest, the Illinois Basin is a geologic area covering most of the state and its rocks are a rich source of coal, petroleum, and other minerals.

It dates back to the Paleozoic Era, which ended 250 million years ago when much of the present-day United States was covered by a prehistoric ocean. But more recently, it has been the source of more than 4 billion barrels of petroleum, as well as rich deposits of the bituminous coal that built much of the early Illinois economy.

A key to history

The thing about basic science research is you never know where it might lead. And so it was that a Southern Illinois University graduate students curiosity about the Illinois Basins past eventually uncovered new information about the mighty Mississippi River on its western border.



Turns out Old Man River is a lot older than even geologists thought. And this discovery, which involved a team of SIU researchers led by Sally Potter-McIntyre, was significant enough to warrant an article in a leading national magazine of natural history.



As of 2014, geologists agreed that the Mississippi River began flowing as recently as 20 million years ago, keeping in mind that geological time is a bit different than what most of us use. But Potter-McIntyres team found evidence the river began flowing more than three times earlier  some 70 million years ago.

Tiny grains, big truths

The key to the discovery were the age of zircon fragments from sandstone found in Southern Illinois. Found as sand grains, zircons are very hard and dont weather away like other minerals, said Potter-McIntyre, an associate professor in SIUs School of Earth Systems and Sustainability. They also contain uranium that functions as a sort of geological clock.



The uranium decays to lead at a steady rate that is not affected by chemical reactions, temperature or heat. So, we can measure the amount of uranium and the amount of the daughter product  lead  and determine when that grain was formed, she said. If you have zircons that formed recently from, for example, volcanic eruptions, then you can tell the maximum age of the sample. That is what we were originally hoping for.



But that test also can reveal a range of ages of zircons in the sample. Sand and sandstones are formed from grains sourced from many different places and if you know the age of those places, you can tell which mountains were feeding sand into the basin, Potter-McIntyre said.



In the case of these samples, they were statistically most similar to the older rocks in the Illinois Basin, suggesting that the sediments were eroding from Illinois, rather than the Appalachian Mountains, as geologists more recently had believed. That meant the area we know as Mississippi Delta was already a low spot by the late Cretaceous period, and water was running through to the Gulf of Mexico.

A students curiosity

The whole thing started when Potter-McIntyres graduate student, Jeremy Breeden, became interested in the Cretaceous deposits found at the most southern tip of Illinois. The deposits were at least 70 million years old and were unusual because the sediments have never been buried and turned into rocks like other sediments that age.



He was hoping to find some way to refine the age of the deposits in order to better understand the history of the Illinois Basin, Potter-McIntyre said.



Breeden, along with researchers from the Illinois State Geological Survey, visited outcrops of the sediments, collecting gallon bags of sand. Breeden then separated the zircons out using a dense liquid that only allowed those denser grains to sink to the bottom.



The team then sent the zircons to the University of Arizona, where there were mounted in epoxy and polished. Team members then used high-tech scanning equipment to measure the isotope decay in the uranium contained in the samples.



We then compared these results with both published results and some data given to us by co-author Dave Malone from Illinois State University, Potter-McIntyre said.

A fundamentally new understanding

Funded by a grant from the American Chemical Societys Petroleum Research Fund, the research findings have led to a vastly new understanding of how our present-day world was formed in North America. Smithsonian Magazine recently included the work in an article.



Not only does it tell us more about the rivers history, it also has implications for understanding the burial and exposure history of the Illinois Basin rocks, specifically how deeply they might have been buried, which is directly relevant to the oil industry in this state, she said.

The McNairy Outcrop in deep Southern Illinois, shown here, was a site where a team of SIU Carbondale researchers took samples for research that determined the Mississippi River began flowing about 70 million years ago, about three times longer ago than previously thought. (Photo provided) The McNairy Outcrop in deep Southern Illinois, shown here, was a site where a team of SIU Carbondale researchers took samples for research that determined the Mississippi River began flowing about 70 million years ago, about three times longer ago than previously thought. (Photo provided)
Mick Fanning couldn't wipe the smile off his face as he enjoyed a night out with his fiancee Breeana Randall on Thursday.

The couple were spotted arriving at the opening of Tammy Hembrow's boyfriend Matt Poole's new restaurant Maman Bar and Kitchen in Burleigh Heads on the Gold Coast.

The surfer, 39, looked stylish in tight black jeans and a matching T-shirt for the outing.

Out and about: Surfer Mick Fanning is all smiles as he poses with his fiancee Breeana Randall at the opening night of Tammy Hembrow's boyfriend Matt Poole's new restaurant on Thursday

He completed his ensemble with a pair of white and grey Nike sneakers.

Meanwhile, Breeana showed off her incredible figure in a long brown dress and black heels.

The blonde beauty completed her stylish ensemble with earrings and carried a black bag.

Breeana styled her long hair straight and wore a neutral palette of makeup including dewy foundation and a nude lip.

Style: The surfer, 39, looked stylish in tight black jeans and a matching coloured T-shirt for the outing

Mick and Breeana's outing comes just two months after the couple welcomed their first child together.

Breeana, 27, gave birth to Xander Dean Fanning on Monday, August 10.

Mick shared the news to Instagram in a post written from Xander's perspective, along with a cute photo of the newborn.

'I'm extremely strong, healthy and calm all because of my beautiful Mama Breeana is a full-on superhero,' read the caption.

Glamorous: Breeana showed off her incredible figure in a long brown dress and black heels

Racy: The couple were spotted arriving at the opening of Tammy Hembrow's boyfriend Matt Poole's new restaurant Maman Bar and Kitchen on the Gold Coast. Both pictured

'Mama was so calm, relaxed and in the zone. Dada calls her his Zen Wonder Woman and is so in awe of how strong and amazing she is,' it continued.

'Dada thought he could focus but he's got nothing on Mama. She rules. Dada loves you beyond words.

He added: 'Thank you to Dr Gen Bishop and all the amazing midwives and staff at John Flynn Hospital. You've all been too kind, loving and helpful.'
Eleven Guatemalan women who claim they were gang-raped during an eviction allegedly orchestrated by a Canadian mining company can update an important legal document with facts from dozens of corporate documents  including ones detailing the companys close relationships with the Guatemalan police and army, a judge ruled Wednesday.

These documents came to light in a high-profile lawsuit that the 11 Indigenous Maya Qeqchi women are waging against the Toronto-based mining company Hudbay Minerals Inc.

The women are suing Hudbay because they allege that on Jan. 17, 2007, Guatemalan police officers, soldiers, and security for a Guatemalan mining company, CGN, gang-raped them during an eviction of their village. At the time, CGN was a subsidiary of the Vancouver-based mining company Skye Resources. The 11 women allege that Skye was negligent in how it arranged the eviction, and that its negligence endangered them in part because it did not take reasonable steps to prevent violence, including on the part of the Guatemalan police and military. In 2008, Hudbay amalgamated with Skye, acquiring any legal liability resulting from the role Skye allegedly played in the gang-rapes.

In court documents, Hudbay has both denied that Skye acted negligently and that CGN security or other private security were at the eviction on Jan. 17, 2007. The judges decision on Wednesday doesnt change our view of the facts of the case, Hudbay wrote in an email to the Star. As this matter is in litigation, we will not be commenting further at this time.

CGN did not respond to a request for comment.

In 2018, the 11 women filed dozens of corporate documents in court in an affidavit to further substantiate their claim that Skye acted negligently when seeking two sets of evictions in January 2007. (Hudbays lawyers have not yet formally replied to the affidavit).

These documents shed light on Skye and CGNs relationships with the police and army. Numerous emails and spreadsheets show that Skye and CGN funnelled close to $140,000 (U.S.) to the Guatemalan police and army by sending the money to three well-connected middlemen in cash or direct transfers to personal bank accounts, their affidavit states. Some money went to logistical supplies like the gasoline and meals of the police and army, while one document records that there are rumours of $157,895 being paid to the armed forces for their work in the land evictions, as The Intercept reported.

The women used other documents to flesh out how the close co-operation between the companies and the Guatemalan police in particular played out: one memorandum shows that a CGN middleman and a police chief flew in a helicopter over the 11 womens village the day before the alleged gang-rapes to conduct reconnaissance. In another email sent shortly before an eviction on Jan. 8, 2007, a community-relations consultant wrote that CGNs general manager is heavily involved in last minute preparations with the police.

The documents also contain information about the companies relationship with the army. In one email, CGNs site manager states that the army helped us, going over their duties during a meeting he had with a commander of a powerful corps of military police that related to Skye and CGNs land disputes with Maya Qeqchi peasants. Photos entered into court also show the police, military, and private security gather(ing) together at CGNs facilities before setting out to conduct the evictions, states the womens affidavit.

The 11 women argue that the companies paid and worked with the police and army even though the public security forces were notoriously corrupt and violated human rights. The military had systematically used rape as a weapon against Indigenous women during the countrys 36-year genocidal civil war, a Guatemalan truth commission found in a 1999 report.

In one email, a senior Skye employee cautions against involving the security forces in the companies land disputes: Once they are involved, their behaviour will be largely outside of our control, except for how we may be able to influence things at the highest levels, i.e. the President or Ministers with direct authority.

Murray Klippenstein, lead lawyer for the women, said that the detailed, formerly confidential corporate documents will help us show that the mining company should have known that, given the brutal history of the Guatemalan police and military, violence and even gang-rapes would be likely in the attack on the Mayan village.

The women filed these documents in court because they wanted to amend their statement of claim with information from them. However, Hudbay challenged the womens effort to do so, arguing that this would amount to the women expanding their argument at the last minute to have Hudbay answer for the alleged conduct of the Guatemalan army and police, states a document Hudbay entered into court.

On Jan. 21, 2020, the Ontario Superior Court case management Master M.P. McGraw, whose role is similar to a judges, ruled that the 11 women could amend their statement of claim. Hudbay appealed the ruling.

On Wednesday, during a hearing over Zoom about the appeal, Hudbays lawyer Robert Harrison argued that the case management master had erred in his ruling. After Harrison finished his arguments, Ontario Superior Court Justice Fred Myers made the uncommon decision to not call on the 11 womens lawyers to make their own arguments. Instead, he simply ruled in their favour, finding that M.P. McGraws original ruling was correct.

The 11 women can now amend their statement of claim with information from the documents.

Susana Mijares Pena, a Toronto-based lawyer who has written about the Hudbay lawsuit, said this ruling marks an important turning point in a case that could reshape the legal paradigm within which Canadian companies operate.

The womens two lawyers will now have much more evidence to support their argument that Hudbay was liable for negligence, since the documents show that Skye personnel were fully aware of what was happening in Guatemala, Mijares said.

More broadly, Mijares thinks that this case and two others against Hudbay being litigated by the same lawyers will make other Canadian corporations more responsible when acting overseas, and in developing nations in particular, by notifying them that Canadian legal principles could be applied to their overseas conduct.

Now, the Canadian standards that we apply to our corporations will have to apply wherever we go regardless of the political system of how those countries work, she said.
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A flurry of dry winds could pummel Bay Area mountains Thursday, bringing an increased risk of fire in a region already reeling from the Glass Fire, meteorologists said.

The National Weather Service expanded its red flag warning overnight to encompass an area that now includes the North Bay mountains, Santa Cruz Mountains, the East Bay hills and the Diablo Range mountains on the list of high-altitude areas that could see wind gusts of up to 35 mph. The warning begins at 1 p.m. Thursday and runs through Friday evening.

Strong winds, coupled with the intense heat predicted for the Bay Area throughout the day, could create a combustible combination, said Roger Gass, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service.

Air quality for much of the Bay Area was expected to worsen Thursday as smoke from the Glass Fire in Napa and Sonoma counties blows south, driven by the gusting winds. A Spare the Air alert is in effect until at least Friday.

Of particular concern to meteorologists is the wind pressure building over the North Bay mountains, where the Glass Fire has charted a devastating course through Wine Country, laying waste to homes and winery structures. Wind gusts could scatter embers from the 51,266-acre inferno, creating spot fires to the south in parts of Napa and Sonoma counties.

Any new fires that ignite would have the potential to rapidly spread, Gass said.

In addition to the wind warning, a heat advisory has also been issued for the Bay Area interior. Santa Rosa, Napa, Calistoga and other valley towns in the North Bay could hit triple-digit temperatures Thursday. The rest of the Bay Area will likely see temperatures in the 90s, including places like Berkeley, Redwood City and San Jose.

The heat advisory begins at 11 a.m. Thursday and lasts through 8 p.m. People are advised to stay inside when possible, stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.

While the heat and wind are not expected to be as strong as in previous weeks, Gass said the unrelenting dry conditions are what makes Thursdays weather worrisome.

Our sense of awareness is heightened, given how dry grasses and fuels are right now, he said.

Nora Mishanec is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: nora.mishanec@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @NMishanec
Texas Governor Gregg Abbott speaks to the press after attending the public viewing for George Floyd at the Fountain of Praise church in Houston, Texas on June 8, 2020.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on Thursday said he would restrict the in-person delivery of early voting ballots to a single location per county in a state that has become unusually competitive in the presidential race and has several tight congressional races.

The proclamation, which also permits poll watchers to observe ballot delivery, will go into effect Friday, closing several drop-off locations in the state. Abbott's order amends a July 27 proclamation that extended early voting and allowed voters to deliver mail ballots in person.

"The State of Texas has a duty to voters to maintain the integrity of our elections," the governor, a Republican, said in a statement. "These enhanced security protocols will ensure greater transparency and will help stop attempts at illegal voting."

Texas Democrats criticized the governor's proclamation as an attempt to suppress voters.

"Republicans are on the verge of losing, so Governor Abbott is trying to adjust the rules last minute," Texas Democratic Party Chair Gilberto Hinojosa said in a statement. "Courts all over the country, including the Fifth Circuit yesterday, have held that it is too late to change election rules, but our failed Republican leadership will try anyway."

The governor's office didn't immediately respond to questions about concerns that the change could limit residents' ability to vote.

On Friday, Texas voting rights organizations and private citizens sued Gov. Abbott and the state of Texas over the order. In a lawsuit filed in a federal court in Austin, the plaintiffs said "forcing such new burdens on voters who relied on a different set of election rules to make their voting plan, is unreasonable, unfair, and unconstitutional."

"Cutting these mail-in voting locations was wrong and done solely to attempt to steal the election from the rising Texas electorate," Hinojosa said in statement Friday applauding the lawsuit.

Abbott's move comes as polling suggests a close race between President Donald Trump and Democratic nominee Joe Biden in the state. Real Clear Politics' polling average gives Trump a lead of 3.2 percentage points over Biden. In 2016, Trump won Texas over then-Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton by 9 points.

A Democratic presidential candidate hasn't won the state since Jimmy Carter in 1976.

Texas is a must-win for Trump, who is trailing Biden in national polls and in several swing-state polls. Texas has 38 electoral votes, second only to California's 55.

Republican Sen. John Cornyn is also up for re-election against Democratic candidate M.J. Hegar. The state is also home to several competitive House races.

The Austin American-Statesman reported that Harris County, home of Houston, the state's most populous city, has 12 drop-off locations. Travis County, home of the state capital, Austin, has four sites to address the high demand for mail-in voting amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Monday marks the last day Texans can register to vote.
Rousseau was an outspoken defender of individual liberty and critic of the Atlantic Slave Trade.

by Anwar A. Khan

The torch of Enlightenment shone, dimly at first, but firmly in the midst of the eighteenth century. The stultifying Old Regime authorities and decadent Parisian elites clashed to form an uneasy powder key of an environment in the French capital during the decades preceding the cataclysmic French Revolution. The Genevan philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau (17121778) was acutely aware of his outsider status among the largely French intellectuals who dominated the cafes and salons.









He referred to himself as Citizen of Geneva on the title page of his famous Social Contract (1762). Rousseau was anti-authoritarian, but crafted a political philosophy which could (and was) usurped by authoritarians.

He was a libertarian in the philosophical sense who would have clashed with free market libertarians a great deal. His political philosophy, it seems, was an exploration in how to, if possible, craft a society so as to avoid the corrupting nature of cosmopolitan decadence and uphold and cultivate the great virtues. Additionally, the book explores the nature of political power as well as what constitutes legitimacy. The shackles of bureaucracy, of unquestioned tradition, and of extremes in inequality constitute a stultifying societal structure that has built up over time  a massive impediment to the power of the individual.

Rousseau opened his magnum opus with the immortal words, Man is born free; and everywhere he is in chains. One thinks himself the master of others, and still remains a greater slave than they. His political philosophy, problematic thought it is, was an exploratory attempt to analyse the nature of authority and freedom, an Enlightenment inquiry consistent with notions of individualism.

This work also builds upon key ideas Rousseau began to develop in his famous two discourses of the 1750s  one on the arts and sciences and the other on inequality. Rousseau set himself the rather impossible task of trying to reconcile individualism with notions of a general will in his Social Contract. Rousseaus revolutionary idea  one of the most important aspects of his political philosophy was that any kind of legitimate authority would have to justify itself. Hence, his emphasis on a general will  the collective will of a people in a (small) democracy. In the Social Contract, Rousseau had this to say:

As long as several men assembled together consider themselves as a single body, they have only one will which is directed towards their common preservation and general well-being. Then, all the animating forces of the state are vigorous and simple, and its principles are clear and luminous; it has no incompatible or conflicting interests; the common good makes itself so manifestly evident that only common sense is needed to discern it. Peace, unity and equality are the enemies of political sophistication.

Upright and simple men are difficult to deceive precisely because of their simplicity; stratagems and clever arguments do not prevail upon them; they are not indeed subtle enough to be dupes. When we see among the happiest people in the world bands of peasants regulating the affairs of state under an oak tree, and always acting wisely, can we help feeling a certain contempt for the refinements of other nations, which employ so much skill and effort to make themselves at once illustrious and wretched? A state thus governed needs very few laws.

As stated at the outset of this article, Rousseau was immensely proud of his Genevan heritage  calling himself Citizen of Geneva in his books. Geneva, at the time, was a small, independent republic. There was much debate about the nature of republics and whether or not they could work on a large scale. This was discussed in great detail by the Founding Fathers of the United States in 1787 when they were designing a new federal government.

Philosophers of previous decades took up the question of size and type of government as well. Rousseau spent much time considering nascent civilization and a hypothetical state of nature as a backdrop to exploring republican and democratic ideas. There are some, even in the present day (like Pete Buttigieg) who try to mash the two concepts together.

Buttigieg actually stated in an interview with The Minimalists, that the difference between a republic and a democracy was academic. How wrong he is! The problematic nature of democracy in Rousseaus Social Contract reveals a major difference  a democracy, in its pure form, is mob rule. Democracy killed Socrates and drove Aristotle into exile. Democracy can descend into chaos quite easily as someone like Thomas Hobbes easily understood.

Geneva was then a small republic and its form of government worked well because of its size. Certain cantons and portions of cantons in Switzerland can function as direct democracies because of their size. Such government would descend into chaos in larger states. Unlike people like Buttigieg, Rousseau understood the difference between the two, though his use of the term general will do more to confuse rather than emphasize the distinction.

Much of the chaos of the French Revolution was due to a massive over-valuation of democracy, the ability of politics to fix all of societys problems, and reading (as well as misreading) of Rousseaus political philosophy as if it were gospel rather than the theoretical musings of an intelligent, but flawed, thinker.

The success of English Common Law rests with the fact that it developed organically, through various gradual reforms (course corrections) over a vast amount of time rather than top-down interventions based on philosophical abstractions from people with little real experience in government.

Rousseaus Social Contract does have its gems. However, one must read the work a discerning mind. As the old adage goes, democracy is two wolves and a sheep deciding whats for dinner. At the same time, a republican government offers a much more healthy and appealing option for mixed government, one in which rule by one, rule by few, and rule by many can coexist and buttress one another.

Rousseaus best work, it seems, is to be found in his two discourses of the 1750s. His Social Contract, for all the hype, it has received from many a political science professor, is an important but flawed work with a major important idea  the legitimacy of peoples sovereignty and several important related ideas  the dangers of bureaucracy, the centrality of liberty, critic of slavery, and the idea that small republican governments are the natural forms of government in which individual liberty can best flourish.

The political mechanisms for creating such an environment proposed by Rousseau are far from perfect  it has all the markings of someone who had no real political experience. Thus, it would have needed a co-writer with years of political experience who could have shaped the inchoate and idealistic abstractions Rousseau was exploring.

Rousseau also emphasized the centrality and inalienability of liberty: Tranquility is found also in dungeons; but is that enough to make them desirable places to live in? To say that a man gives himself gratuitously, is to say what is absurd and inconceivable; such an act is null and illegitimate, from the mere fact that he who does it is out of his mind. To say the same of a whole people is to suppose a people of madmen; and madness creates no right. Even if each man could alienate himself, he could not alienate his children: they are born men and free; their liberty belongs to them, and no one but they have the right to dispose of it.

Before they come to years of judgment, the father can, in their name, lay down conditions for their preservation and well-being, but he cannot give them irrevocably and without conditions: such a gift is contrary to the ends of nature, and exceeds the rights of paternity. It would therefore be necessary, in order to legitimize an arbitrary government, that in every generation the people should be in a position to accept or reject it; but, were this so, the government would be no longer arbitrary.

To renounce liberty is to renounce being a man, to surrender the rights of humanity and even its duties. For him who renounces everything no indemnity is possible. Such a renunciation is incompatible with mans nature; to remove all liberty from his will is to remove all morality from his acts. Finally, it is an empty and contradictory convention that sets up, on the one side, absolute authority, and, on the other, unlimited obedience.

Rousseau was an outspoken defender of individual liberty and critic of the Atlantic Slave Trade. His statement above makes it clear that Rousseaus political musings were of instrumental value whereas individual civil liberty is of intrinsic value. This point has to be made because of so many critics who saw in Rousseaus ideas the precursors of twentieth century totalitarianism.

This is probably because they focused so heavily on the specific political layout Rousseau delineated in the Social Contract rather than the thought process and values behind it or the previous works in which Rousseau explored the corrupting nature of cosmopolitan societies.

The very right to vote imposes on me the duty to instruct myself in public affair, however little influence my voice may have in them. -Jean-Jacques Rousseau, from On the Social Contract

Statements like the above are among the idealistic, well-sounding statements Rousseau made.

The realities surrounding them, are a different matter. How many people in any population takes such notions seriously when voting? Yes, all adult citizens of a polity should have the right to vote and yes, they should consider deeply the weight that their modest voice has on the process. This latter point must be stressed because of the problems related to voter apathy and incumbent advantage.

Voter apathy is a form of resignation, not the much-needed bulwark against the status quo. Incumbent advantage allows for the development of a non-hereditary form of aristocracy. Perhaps the example of San Marino with their two captains-regent who serve for 6-month terms and have to wait so many years before occupying that office again is the way to go in terms of executive power. In any event, Rousseau at least acknowledged the shortcomings of his more idealistic statement above: As soon as any man says of the affairs of the State What does it matter to me? the State may be given up for lost.

Man is born free, yet he is everywhere in chains. Rousseaus statement still stands, even in societies which are far freer than Old Regime France. This is because, when one takes away authoritarian political impediments to liberty, there are many who yearn for some form of authority. Freedom is glorious but dangerous, even in a constrained form (in comparison with the state of nature). The artist, the entrepreneur, these are among the freest people in society today. They mold themselves into the people they wish to become. They take the initiative to develop themselves and exercise their liberty to the greatest extent possible while the vast majority seek pacifiers set their chains.

It has been said that affluence is the precondition for existential angst. This is because the natural, antifragile nature of humanity cannot flourish in the superficial environment of middle-class sterility. Rousseaus political philosophy, in order to be more successful, must be taken into consideration alongside his critiques of both inequality and the arts and sciences. Otherwise, we risk merely replacing one set of chains with another.

We may conclude by quoting Marx, We humans are living in an illusory world, which obscures the true nature of humans. The true nature of humans is yet to come, where all conflict will end, as well as all history. Till this time, even if we are all born free, for a vast majority of us, these self-imposed chains are making us act like machines.

-The End 

The writer is an independent political observer based in Dhaka, Bangladesh who writes on politics, political and human-centred figures, current and international affairs.
AG Nessel Files Felony Charges Against Jack Burkman, Jacob Wohl in Voter-Suppression Robocalls Investigation

AG Nessel Files Felony Charges Against Jack Burkman, Jacob Wohl in Voter-Suppression Robocalls Investigation

October 1, 2020 LANSING  Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has filed charges today against two political operatives for allegedly orchestrating a series of robocalls aimed at suppressing the vote in the November general election. Jack Burkman, 54, and Jacob Wohl, 22, are each charged with: One count of election law  intimidating voters, a five-year felony;

One count of conspiracy to commit an election law violation, a five-year felony;

One count of using a computer to commit the crime of election law  intimidating voters, a seven-year felony; and

Using a computer to commit the crime of conspiracy, a seven-year felony.



The charges were filed today in the 36th District Court in Detroit. Arraignment is pending for the defendants. The Attorney Generals office will be working  with local law enforcement if necessary  to secure the appearance of each defendant in Michigan. Its too early to say if formal extradition will be necessary or if they will present themselves here voluntarily in the very near future.



Burkman, an Arlington, Virginia resident, and Wohl, a Los Angeles, California resident, allegedly attempted to discourage voters from participating in the general election by creating and funding a robocall targeted at certain urban areas, including Detroit. The calls were made in late August and went out to nearly 12,000 residents with phone numbers from the 313 area code.

During its investigation, Nessels office communicated with attorneys general offices in New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio and Illinois, all of which reported similar robocalls being made to residents in their states who live in urban areas with significant minority populations. It's believed around 85,000 calls were made nationally, though an exact breakdown of the numbers of calls to each city or state are not available.

Attorney General Nessels office is also grateful for the help of California Attorney General Xavier Becerra, his staff and other local law enforcement officials who assisted special agents from the Michigan Department of Attorney General as part of this investigation.

Any effort to interfere with, intimidate or intentionally mislead Michigan voters will be met with swift and severe consequences, Nessel said. This effort specifically targeted minority voters in an attempt to deter them from voting in the November election. Were all well aware of the frustrations caused by the millions of nuisance robocalls flooding our cell phones and landlines each day, but this particular message poses grave consequences for our democracy and the principles upon which it was built. Michigan voters are entitled to a full, free and fair election in November and my office will not hesitate to pursue those who jeopardize that.

Attorney General Nessel and Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson issued a press release in August after news of the robocall surfaced.

"I have zero tolerance for anyone who would seek to deceive citizens about their right to vote, Benson said. I am grateful to the Attorney General for her swift and thorough investigation, putting anyone else who would seek to undermine citizens fundamental rights on notice that we will use every tool at our disposal to dispel false rhetoric and seek justice on behalf of every voter who is targeted and harmed by any attempt to suppress their vote.

The recorded robocall message warns people about being finessed into giving your private information to the man and urges them to beware of vote by mail.

The caller, who claims to be associated with an organization founded by Burkman and Wohl, falsely tells people that mail-in voting, in particular, will allow personal information to become part of a special database used by police to track down old warrants and by credit card companies to collect outstanding debts. The caller also deceptively claims the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will use the information to track people for mandatory vaccines. However, none of that is true.

The Attorney General encourages anyone who received this call on or about Aug. 26 and who wishes to file a complaint about it to contact her office by calling 517-335-7650.

Information callers may be asked to provide in their complaint will include: Complainants name, address and contact information;

Date and time of when the robocall was received;

Phone number of the line where the call was received;

Number displayed on caller ID when the call was received;

Whether the robocall went to voicemail or was answered live;

The complainants recollection of the robocall content and their thoughts about the call;

Whether the complainant is and has been a Michigan resident for six months or more; and

Whether the complainant is a registered voter or is eligible to vote. There is very little, if any, evidence to substantiate claims that mail-in ballots lead to fraud, as many states have successfully conducted the process for years. Michigan has had absentee voting for more than 60 years. In November 2018, Michigan voters overwhelmingly approved Proposal 3, which amended Michigans Constitution and gave all Michigan voters the constitutional right to vote by absentee ballot without excuse. Click here to listen to an audio recording of the robocall. Click here to view a copy of Burkman and Wohls charging documents. ### Please note: A criminal charge is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The Attorney Generals office does not provide photos of defendants, but one may be available from the booking agency.

Ryan Jarvi 517-599-2746 Attorney General
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. President of Armenia Armen Sarkissian has sent a congratulatory letter to Chinese President Xi Jinping on the 71st anniversary of the proclamation of the Peoples Republic of China, the Armenian Presidents Office told Armenpress.

President Sarkissian stated that the relations of Armenia and China are based on good will, mutual trust and friendship and are being strengthened by the historical ties and mutual sympathy between the two peoples.

I attach a great importance to the strengthening of the high-level dialogue and mutual support between our countries at this important stage. Highlighting the consistent development and expansion of comprehensive partnership with China in different areas, I am convinced that the Armenian-Chinese traditional friendly relations will strengthen and deepen in the future for the benefit of our peoples, the Armenian President said in his letter.

The Armenian President wished his Chinese counterpart good health, new achievements and all the best, and to good people of China  peace and welfare.

Editing and Translating by Aneta Harutyunyan
01 Oct 2020, 10:34 AM

Unlock 5.0: Cinema halls to reopen from Oct 1 with 50% seating capacity

The fifth phase of the opening up of the economy, that is Unlock 5.0, is set to begin from October 1. Under the 'Unlock 5' guidelines,the central government has permitted opening of cinemas/ theatres/ multiplexes with upto 50 per cent of their seating capacity, for which, SOP will be issued later. Unlock 5 will happen at a time when coronavirus cases have spiralled to more than 62 lakh in the country, and 80,472 people have died due to it.

India extends ban on international flights till October 31

The suspension on commercial international passenger flight services to or from India has been extended till October 31, according to an official statement. The government, however, said that international scheduled flights may be allowed on selected routes by the competent authority on case to case basis.

Govt cuts natural gas price by 25% to lowest on record

Natural gas price in India touched the lowest rate on record after the government on Wednesday slashed the price by 25 per cent to USD 1.79, denting revenues of producers like ONGC.

The price of gas, which is used to generate electricity, make fertiliser and CNG for automobiles, has been cut to USD 1.79 per million British thermal unit for six months beginning October 1.

MSMEs seek liberal GST norms for smoother transition to online selling

Terming the GST compliance burden as taxing for micro, small and medium enterprises making shift to online selling platform, industry players have urged the government to ease the rules. They have claimed that regulations prescribed in the GST Act for businesses selling online impose a higher tax rate and compliance burden in comparison to businesses selling offline thus preventing MSMEs to swiftly make a transition to online platforms.

GlaxoSmithKline CEO optimistic Covid-19 vaccine widely available in 2021

The chief executive of GlaxoSmithKline, the world's largest maker of vaccines, said she was optimistic the industry will be able to make an immunisation against COVID-19 widely available next year. "I share the optimism that we will have solutions next year. The challenge here is getting to the scale that is required," GSK CEO Emma Walmsley said at an online event of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) on Tuesday.
The leader of the Proud Boys, the 'white supremacist' group at the center of the presidential debate furor, is a state director of Latinos for Trump and ran for Congress as a Republican, DailyMail.com can reveal.

Donald Trump told the Proud Boys to 'stand back and stand by' after he was asked to denounce their alleged white supremacist views during the presidential debate Tuesday night.

Afterwards Trump's son and spokesman both tried to downplay the comment, calling it a 'misspeak'. The president backpedaled on Wednesday telling reporters he had never heard of the group.

DailyMail.com can reveal the Proud Boys national chairman, Enrique Tarrio, is close to the Republican party, having been pictured with the president's son Don Jr. and currently serving as the Florida state director of the political support group Latinos for Trump.

But a spokesman for the Trump campaign told DailyMail.com that neither Tarrio nor his Latinos for Trump group are affiliated with the presidents official reelection campaign group the Latinos for Trump Coalition.

National chairman of the Proud Boys, Enrique Tarrio has ties with the GOP and was previously pictured with Donald Trump Jr. He posted this photo online captioned, 'Blurry but at least we spoke about the rampant censorship of conservatives'

DailyMail.com can reveal that Tarrio is serving as the Florida state director of the political support group Latinos for Trump

Donald Trump told the Proud Boys to 'stand back and stand by' after he was asked to denounce their alleged white supremacist views during the presidential debate Tuesday night

Tarrio, 36, has been pictured with Trump confidant Roger Stone who is a Proud Boys member. He's seen to the left of Stone in a photo posted to Instagram

Tarrio is pictured with Republican senator Ted Cruz, who co-sponsored a Senate resolution based on a petition written by Tarrio to designate the anarchist left wing group Antifa as a 'domestic terrorist organization'

The individual you wrote about here is not affiliated with the Trump Campaign, our Latinos for Trump Coalition, or the Trump Family, the spokesman said. He is also not the state director of our coalition and is not on our advisory board.

Tarrio, 36, has been pictured with Trump confidant Roger Stone who is a Proud Boys member, the president's son Don Jr., Florida governor Rick Scott and senior Republican senator Ted Cruz, who co-sponsored a Senate resolution based on a petition written by Tarrio to designate the anarchist left wing group Antifa as a 'domestic terrorist organization'.

Trump lent his support to the proposal, which ultimately failed, tweeting in August last year, 'Major consideration is being given to naming ANTIFA an 'ORGANIZATION OF TERROR'.'

Tarrio posted a selfie of him and Donald Trump Jr. online with the caption: 'Blurry but at least we spoke about the rampant censorship of conservatives'.

He's also been pictured with former White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders and Republican Rep. Dan Crenshaw.

Tarrio was also caught on camera at the infamous 2017 white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, wearing body armor and a badge with the insignia of the 'Fraternal Order of Alt-Knights', a paramilitary wing of the Proud Boys.

He claims he left before violence erupted at the march.

The business owner and Miami-born son of Cuban immigrants was promoted from president of his city's Proud Boys chapter to become the group's national chairman in November 2018.

Tarrio, who runs a security equipment firm, claims the Proud Boys has a 'similar atmosphere' to his Cuban upbringing and in a 2018 interview described his Miami chapter as 'a frat with a political lean.'

He told the Miami New Times his parents became conservative after fleeing Castro's Cuba.

'My house, at like 7 o'clock in the morning, there's like 20 people in my house, talking about politics, roasting each other, just making fun of each other. I was brought up in that environment, so that kind of brings me into the f***ery that comes along with being a Proud Boy,' he said.

Despite supporting Trump's criticism of 'lawless' Democrat-run cities, as a younger man Tarrio had several run-ins with the law.

Age 20 in 2004, he was sentenced to three years probation for stealing a motorcycle worth $55,000, and in 2013, he was sentenced to 16 months in federal prison for his part in a scheme to sell stolen diabetic test strip kits.

Tarrio was pictued at a Trump rally in 2019 as the president and First Lady spoke to a Venezuelan American community at Florida International University in Miami

Stone, Trump's confidant and self-proclaimed dirty trickster, is pictured with Tarrio as he holds up the white power symbol

Enrique Tarrio is pictured with former White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders

Tarrio previously ran for congress this year and is pictured with Florida Governor Rick Scott

Tarrio posted for a photo with Republican Rep. Dan Crenshaw and posted the photo online with the caption, '3 eyes...2 patriots,'

Tarrio has previously been banned from Twitter for breaking the site's rules on 'violent extremist groups'. He has slammed Twitter's decision and says he denounces hate and racism.

But Tarrio has posted messages on Proud Boys online groups including: 'This [website] to get filled up with Proud Boys, not no f**got a** photogs!' and 'B**ch n****r f**got tra**y. Stress test 3,' according to screenshots obtained by the Miami New Times.

He has also described transexual women as 'it' on Facebook, and posted a picture of Trump with the words 'grab her by the p**sy' and his own caption: 'Only way to grab it..if you ask me.'

Other members have posted messages praising the Holocaust and mass murderers in their private group chats, the paper reported.

The Cuban-American, who ran as a Republican to represent Florida's 27th Congressional District this year but withdrew before the party's primary in August, said he wrote his slurs as a joke and to promote free speech.

'We are not a white-power group, and I am not a victim,' he told the New Times. 'I just think I should be able to say what I want and to express my support of Trump without being called a Nazi.'

Tarrio appears on the Latino for Trump website as the state director for Florida. Tarrio said that Trump 'didn't condemn us. He didn't promote us either. What ''stand by'' means is stand by me'

In 206, Tarrio posted this photo just before the election supporting Donald Trump's vulgar remarks that he grabs women by the 'pu**y'. n: 'Only way to grab it..if you ask me,' he wrote

Tarrio posted this in 2017 which as women if they would be more willing to donate $20 to Trump's campaign or walk past a group of Black men while wearing a sundress

The Proud Boys was originally started as a joke by Vice Media co-founder Gavin McInnes in 2016, naming it after the Aladdin song, 'Proud of Your Boy.'

The organization grew from gatherings of men in New York dive bars frustrated with politically correct culture, that 'usually consist of drinking, fighting, and reading aloud from Pat Buchanan's Death of the West,' according to McInnes.

As its numbers swelled to an estimated 6,000 members, the group became known for its 'Western chauvinism'  a mix of misogynist and anti-Muslim rhetoric, and for violent clashes with anti-fascist groups in New York and the Pacific North West.

In 2018 the FBI sent a warning to Washington police departments calling the Proud Boys an 'extremist group' that was recruiting in their areas and that members 'have contributed to the recent escalation of violence at political rallies held on college campuses, and in cities like Charlottesville, Virginia, Portland, Oregon, and Seattle, Washington.'

An Oregon bureau chief later backtracked, saying they did not mean to label the group as extremist, and a spokeswoman said, 'Our focus is not on membership in particular groups but on individuals who commit violence and criminal activity.'

But violence has followed the Proud Boys across the country for years.

The unofficial uniform of the Proud Boys is a black and yellow Fred Perry polo shirt  which is, bizarrely, a clothing choice they share with many in the gay BDSM community who often wear similar shirts at fetish-fueled sex parties.

Gay men's sex shops sell rubber and latex polo shirts in the style of Fred Perry shirts, some with the same color scheme of black with yellow stripes.

'The standard Proud Boy polo shirt, from Fred Perry, is a massive thing in the US gay BDSM community,' a member of the community told DailyMail.com. 'It's something like a code, and is worn often and regularly, at gatherings. It will likely be curtailed now, due to the Proud Boys now having co-opted the shirts and logos.'

The Cuban-American ran as a Republican to represent Florida's 27th Congressional District this year but withdrew before the party's primary in August

Roger Stone is picture with a group of the Proud Boys as they hold up the 'white power' symbol with their hands. The unofficial uniform of the Proud Boys is a black and yellow Fred Perry polo shirt  which is, bizarrely, a clothing choice they share with many in the gay BDSM community

Seven members pleaded guilty to charges including riot, disorderly conduct and attempted assault after fights broke out with protesters at a Proud Boys event in New York in 2018.

After clashing with the far-left anarchist group Antifa, Proud Boys members Maxwell Hare, 27, and John Kinsman, 40, were convicted of attempted gang assault, attempted assault and riot in August last year and sentenced to four years in prison.

On Wednesday Portland Police arrested Proud Boys member Alan Swinney after he allegedly pulled a real gun on Black Lives Matter protesters, shot them with a paintball gun and sprayed them with mace.

When Trump failed to denounce the group and instead told them to 'stand by' during the presidential debate on Tuesday, some Proud Boys members interpreted it as a rallying cry to fight Antifa, with others even making $40 t-shirts emblazoned with the phrase 'Proud Boys Standing By'.

The group's unofficial uniform is a black and yellow Fred Perry polo shirt.

Membership of the Proud Boys is reportedly broken into four degrees. Men become first degree members by simply declaring: 'I am a western chauvinist, and I refuse to apologize for creating the modern world,'  a pledge Roger Stone has made on camera.

To reach the second degree, members must demonstrate 'adrenaline control' in a bizarre ritual where they are beaten until they yell the names of five breakfast cereals.

Following Trump's debate shout out, several members of the Proud Boys appeared to pledge their allegiance to the president. One social media account connected to the organization even appeared to made 'Stand back. Stand by' part of a new logo

A third degree member must get a Proud Boys tattoo and give up watching pornography and masturbating.

Fourth degree members suffer some hardship including being fired from their job for being a Proud Boy, being publicly 'doxxed' or identified as a member, or engaging in violence with Antifa.

The Unite the Right neo-Nazi rally in Charlottesville was organized by Proud Boy second degree member Jason Kessler.

After the rally, Kessler was expelled by then-president McInnes in an attempt to distance the group from white supremacism.

Though both McInnes and Tarrio have denounced racism, the former has a long history of incendiary public comments.

When a New York Press reporter asked him what he thought about his neighbors in his Williamsburg, New York, neighborhood in 2002, he said: 'Well, at least they're not n*****s or Puerto Ricans. At least they're white.'

The Proud Boys was originally started as a joke by Vice Media co-founder Gavin McInnes (pictured) in 2016, naming it after the Aladdin song, 'Proud of Your Boy'

The 2017 Unite the Right neo-Nazi rally in Charlottesville was organized by Proud Boy second degree member Jason Kessler. After the rally, Kessler was expelled by then-president McInnes in an attempt to distance the group from white supremacism

On his show, McInnes has made several offensive comments including calling women 'dumb'. 'Maybe the reason I'm sexist is because women are dumb. No, I'm just kidding, ladies. But you do tend to not thrive in certain areas  like writing,' he said in 2017.

McInnes has also said 'Palestinians are stupid. Muslims are stupid. And the only thing they really respect is violence and being tough,' and has referred to transgender people as 'gender n*****s' and 'stupid lunatics.'

A spokesman for Tarrio released a statement Wednesday saying the Proud Boys has 'longstanding regulations prohibiting racist, white supremacist or violent activity' adding that 'we do not care what color you are or what your background is ... if you love America ... we consider you a brother.'

Tarrio himself later said Trump wasn't endorsing Proud Boys with what he said.

He told NBC Miami, 'He didn't condemn us. He didn't promote us either. What 'stand by' means is stand by me.'

He added: 'The president was asked a very poignant question. He was asked about white supremacy and he was asked to disavow white supremacy. Biden cut him off and said our name.'
WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump's debate-stage call for volunteers to stand watch at voting locations has prompted an enthusiastic response from known neo-Nazis and right-wing activists, leading many state election and law enforcement officials to prepare for voter intimidation, arrests and even violence on Election Day.

In his debate Tuesday night with Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden, Trump did not explicitly condemn white supremacists or armed right-wing groups when asked to do so, and he falsely accused election officials in Philadelphia of improperly keeping poll watchers out of voting locations this week. The president provoked particular outrage when he was asked to condemn the Proud Boys, an all-male group associated with street violence, but instead said its members should "stand back and stand by."

The Trump campaign and Republican National Committee for months have promised to recruit as many as 50,000 poll watchers to monitor voting locations on Election Day. The campaign's "Army for Trump" website has contributed to that effort, urging supporters to join the "army of supporters fighting to reelect him in 2020."

But more-extremist supporters appeared to be joining that effort Wednesday, raising the prospect for confrontation and intimidation at polling locations.

"I got shivers," Andrew Anglin, the founder of the neo-Nazi website the Daily Stormer, wrote in a post Wednesday. "I still have shivers. He is telling the people to stand by. As in: Get ready for war."

Members of the Proud Boys repeated Trump's false claims about election fraud in Philadelphia. The Official Michigan Proud Boys account posted a new logo on the encrypted messaging service Telegram based on Trump's phrase: "Stand Back and Stand By" and reposted his tweet: "Must have a fair Election."

Asked Wednesday about white supremacy, Trump told reporters that he had "always denounced any form of any of that." He said he did not know who the Proud Boys were, and he tried to clarify his remarks from the previous evening: "They have to stand down and let law enforcement do their work." Separately Wednesday, the president was asked whether armed, right-wing groups on street corners concern him. "Yeah, it does concern me, and crime generally concerns me," Trump replied. "Any form of crime. And let law enforcement take care of it."

Still, numerous civil rights leaders and Democratic lawyers said Trump's comments could lead toillegal election interference, and several state attorneys general said they were preparing to arrest anyone who tries to prevent voters from exercising their rights.

"This is a blatant attempt at voter intimidation," said Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey, a Democrat. "It's very important to be clear about that. It's illegal. It is a crime to engage in voter intimidation or election interference."

A Trump campaign spokeswoman said in a statement that the president is encouraging his supporters to lawfully watch the polls because of a belief that Democrats will try to steal the election.

"Poll watchers are critical to ensuring the fairness of any election, and President Trump's volunteer poll watchers will be trained to ensure all rules are applied equally, all valid ballots are counted, and all Democrat rule breaking is called out," campaign spokeswoman Thea McDonald said. "And if fouls are called, the Trump campaign will go to court to enforce the laws, as rightfully written by state legislatures, to protect every voter's right to vote. President Trump and his team will be ready to make sure polls are run correctly, securely, and transparently as we work to deliver the free and fair election Americans deserve."

In an interview, Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio strongly denied any connection with white supremacists. "We weren't planning on doing anything but canvass for the rest of the month," he said about the group.

In most states, poll monitors must be registered with state authorities and are entitled to watch proceedings such as ballot counting only as representative of a political campaign or a party with standing in the election.

The Trump campaign dismissed accusations that it is inciting intimidation as partisan nonsense.

"The President's campaign, like all Democrat and Republican campaigns, are recruiting election workers and observers to help out on Election Day," senior adviser Justin Clark said in a statement. "This isn't about intimidation but about transparency in the election process. Anything to the contrary is just demagoguery."

Republican National Committee counsel Justin Riemer said in an interview that the party's poll-watcher program is not an attempt at intimidation. He said the party targets polling places with a history of long lines and other problems that warrant observation. An RNC spokesman said poll watchers should follow all state and local laws about guns and would be trained to interact politely with voters and poll workers.

"We are very sensitive to those allegations that poll watchers are out there to stop people from voting," Reimer said. "That is not why we are there. We make very clear to our volunteers. You need to be respectful, you need to be polite. You're not there to be intimidating."

Mark Krasovic, a historian at Rutgers University at Newark, said loosely organized groups may see license in the rhetoric of the president and his supporters, "whether they've been officially deputized to carry out this activity or not."

The Oath Keepers, a militia group that formed more than a decade ago that comprises current and former law enforcement and military members, also has pledged to have "volunteer security teams" at Trump rallies and out on Election Day. The group was recently banned from Twitter.

Trump's comments at the debate were "appalling," and they are "setting the stage for election violence," said Lindsay Schubiner, the program director at the Western States Center, a Portland, Ore.-based organization that tracks extremist groups.

"His statements really functioned as a rallying cry for the alt-right paramilitary group the Proud Boys, and they certainly interpreted it as such," Schubiner said. "In the current context, it's hard to interpret that as anything other than a call for voter intimidation."

At least three Democratic attorneys general - in Massachusetts, Virginia and Nevada - have issued statements reminding the public that voter intimidation is illegal and that the law be enforced.

"There are ways that you can become a legitimate poll watcher," said Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford. "It requires certain attestations, and you are disallowed from intimidating or engaging with those who are voting."

Already, instances of suspected intimidation have popped up at early-voting locations. On Sept. 19, the second day of early voting in the Virginia suburbs of the District of Columbia, Trump supporters staged a rally outside a polling place, requiring voters to make their way past the crowd and prompting accusations of impropriety. Republican officials said the pro-Trump group was not intimidating anyone and complied with the requests of election officials, the New York Times reported.

And in Philadelphia this week, at least one Trump supporter showed up at an election office to watch voters fill out absentee ballots and turn them in but was turned away. Trump alluded to the incident during Tuesday's debate, falsely claiming that Philadelphia election officials were trying to hide fraud. Like most states, Pennsylvania requires poll watchers to be registered and to represent a campaign or political party.

"They went in to watch," Trump said during the debate. "They were called poll watchers - a very safe, very nice thing. They were thrown out. They weren't allowed to watch. You know why? Because bad things happen in Philadelphia, bad things."

The effort to recruit volunteers nationwide who are prepared to contest voting eligibility, oversee counting and challenge results has reverberated in extremist corners of the Internet, where support for the president goes hand-in-hand with faith in debunked ideas about the "deep state" and a globalist, Satan-worshipping cabal.

Days before Trump used his debate platform to urge his supporters to stand watch at the polls, Albert Maimone, a 41-year-old devotee of the president in Westfield, Mass., posted a link to the "Army for Trump" website in a Facebook group for adherents of QAnon, the baseless conspiracy theory identified by the FBI as a potential domestic terrorism threat. Facebook said it was reviewing the QAnon content for violations of its policies.

Maimone, a Massachusetts Republican, is preparing to answer the call to show up at the polls.

"Yeah, we're going to go to the polls," the former chef said in an interview. "We're going to go to the polls, and we're going to be poll workers, and we're not going to be scared of antifa or Black Lives Matter, and we're going to represent our country. Me, personally, I'm not going to back down from any of this complete dishonesty."

Another user who posted the link in a QAnon Facebook group, who declined to give his location in an interview, pledged, "Patriots will be working in all areas as well as the post offices."

Facebook has been a central vector for the dissemination of conspiratorial, and frequently false, information about voter fraud and malfeasance at the polls, despite the company's efforts to crack down on extremist groups and curb election-related misinformation.

Adding to the potential for violence is a robust militia infrastructure in numerous battleground states, according to analysts and academics tracking potential election-related conflagrations.

Michigan in particular could be a tinderbox, said researchers at the Alethea Group, an organization combating disinformation, because of residual tensions from protests over pandemic restrictions that caused the state to cancel a legislative session. Lisa Kaplan, Alethea's founder, said she and her team identified 25 militia groups in Michigan, including several that operate well-organized bureaucracies, including features such as organizational hierarchies, local chapters, and fitness and training activities.

Michael Lackomar, a communications officer and team leader for the Southeast Michigan Volunteer Militia, said several of his members are acting as poll watchers in their own communities. The group as a whole has no plans for widespread action but is "ready to respond to any violence that may spring up, or if the need arises to get some of our members out in more hostile areas."

"No matter who wins in November, the other side is going to scream fraud," Lackomar said. "I do not see a way for this to go quietly."

Earlier this year, Trump floated the idea of using law enforcement officers to patrol polling places, invoking tactics historically used to intimidate voters of color.

"We're going to have everything," the president told Fox News host Sean Hannity in August. "We're going to have sheriffs, and we're going to have law enforcement, and we're going to hopefully have U.S. attorneys and we're going to have everybody, and attorney generals."

The president has limited authority to order law enforcement to patrol polling places. Sheriff's deputies and police officers are commanded at the local level, and a federal law bars U.S. government officials from sending "armed men" to the vicinity of polling places.

Ricky Hatch, who chairs the election committee at the National Association of Counties, said every election official in the country is wrestling with how to preserve the bedrock principle of open elections, which authorizes observers, while limiting the potential for chaos and conflict that could result from attempted interference with the tabulation process.

"We certainly don't mind the observation, and the increased observation," said Hatch, the clerk and auditor in Weber County, Utah. "We know that's going to be higher in a high-stakes election like this. We just ask them to come with an open mind."

- - -

The Washington Post's Michelle Ye Hee Lee contributed to this report.
Srinagar: Firing broke out on the border from Pakistan, once again violating the ceasefire, targeting the Indian Post. On Thursday morning, Pakistan opened fire in the Krishna Valley sector of Poonch city. One soldier martyred in the firing from Pakistan. At the same time, there has been news that firing has been done on behalf of Pakistan in Nowgam sector of Kupwara.

In the firing, two soldiers have died while four soldiers are said to be seriously injured. Pakistan's army is constantly being given a befitting reply from India. There has been an attempt from Pakistan to spoil the atmosphere on the border for the past several days. The Pakistani Army is continuously firing at the Indian Post targeting the border. There was a firing from Pakistan in the Krishna Valley sector of Poonch city in the morning on Thursday.

The injured Rifleman Virender Singh has suffered a serious injury on his eye. The injured soldier has just been admitted to the Army Hospital in Rajouri. According to the information received, from Pakistan, firing has been done at the post of the force in Nowgam sector of Kupwara. Two soldiers have been killed in the firing from Pakistan, while four soldiers are said to be injured. The injured soldiers have been admitted to the army hospital. The army is deployed at the post to foil the attacks of Pakistan.

Rahul Gandhi arrested on his way to meet family members of Hathras victim, says 'Police beat me'

Russian President Vladimir Putin warns Azerbaijan to stop war with Armenia

I also have an 18-year-old daughter, who is disturbed by such rape incidents: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra
She's been outspoken about her political beliefs in the lead-up to the 2020 general election.

And Eva Longoria stuck to her guns on Wednesday as she joined a caravan of cars in Miami's Little Havana neighborhood to support Joe Biden and Kamala Harris' candidacy for president and vice president.

The 45-year-old Desperate Housewives star was joined in the caravan by her friend, Republican strategist and CNN political commentator Ana Navarro, who is also supporting Biden and Harris in the election.

Making their voices heard: Eva Longoria, 45, joined a car caravan in Miami's Little Havana neighborhood on Wednesday as she and CNN political commentator Ana Navarro showed their support for Joe Biden

Eva kept her look casual and functional while speaking with fans and Biden supporters on the rainy day.

She wore a simple white T-shirt that read 'Vote' in colorful letters.

The actress kept her shirt tucked into her figure-hugging white jeans, which she wore with a white belt, and she stayed on theme with a pair of white trainers.

She wore her brunette tresses parted down the middle and cascading over her shoulders, and she helped slow the spread of the novel coronavirus by wearing a black mask that said, 'Biden.'

Political: Eva kept her look casual and functional while speaking with fans and Biden supporters on the rainy day. She wore a simple white T-shirt that read 'Vote' in colorful letters

Woman in white: The actress kept her shirt tucked into her figure-hugging white jeans, which she wore with a white belt, and she stayed on theme with a pair of white trainers

Her candidate: She wore her brunette tresses parted down the middle and cascading over her shoulders, and she wore a black mask that said, 'Biden'

Joining Eva in her large black Lincoln SUV was her friend Ana, who wore a green blouse with dark pants and also sported a mask.

Though she's a Republican strategist, Navarro has criticized President Donald Trump for comments he made on the Access Hollywood tape about sexually assaulting women, and she also called him a racist for remarks he has made about immigrants and the Latin community.

She was subsequently labeled a 'Never Trumper' for her disdain of the president, and she voted for Hillary Clinton in the 2016 election and is supporting Joe Biden in the upcoming contest.

Despite their usually conflicting political views, Eva and Ana have been friends for years, and the Devious Maids producer attended Ana's wedding in March 2019 to Republican Party operative Al Cardenas.

On the move: After stopping to chat with reporters and supporters, Eva made her way back to the SUV to join the parade of vehicles

Vote! Eva has continued to share her political views on social media and has repeatedly urged her 8 million Instagram followers to vote for the Democratic nominee

Working together: Joining Eva in her large black Lincoln SUV was her friend Ana, who wore a green blouse with dark pants and also sported a mask

After stopping to chat with reporters and supporters, Eva made her way back to the SUV to join the parade of vehicles.

The FiveThirtyEight average of recent Florida polls show Biden with a slim lead over Trump in the state.

Eva has continued to share her political views on social media and has repeatedly urged her 8 million Instagram followers to vote for the Democratic nominee.

Earlier this month, she shared a mirror selfie featuring her impressive abs as she reminded her followers to register to vote.

This month also marked the start of her digital platform She Se Puede, which she starred with activists to 'inspire, affirm, and inform Latinas so they can leverage their power to transform their lives, their families, their community and their nation.'

Opposites attract: Despite their usually conflicting political views, Eva and Ana have been friends for years, and the Devious Maids producer attended Ana's wedding in March 2019

Tight race: The FiveThirtyEight average of recent Florida polls show Biden with a slim lead over Trump in the state

Ripped and ready: Earlier this month, she shared a mirror selfie featuring her impressive abs as she reminded her followers to register to vote

Missing from Eva's day in the caravan was her husband Jose Baston and their two-year-old son Santiago.

The couple also didn't meet, after Jose initially refused a blind date with her that was set up by a mutual friend because of his busy schedule.

But the two still got together and hit things off, and they announced their engagement in December 2015, before tying the knot in May 2016.
Black people are almost twice as likely to die from Covid-19 as white people, according to a study that adds to growing evidence on the subject.

Numerous reports, including government-funded research, have shown people in black, Asian and ethnic minority (BAME) communities are being hit harder by the coronavirus.

The latest review of evidence, commissioned by London Mayor Sadiq Khan, adds to the fire.

Manchester University academics, who carried out the research, found black people were 1.9 times more likely to die from Covid-19 than white people. They analysed the data from both local and national sources to make the conclusion.

And the effect was still found even when they took into account that non-white people tend to, on average, have worse health and living conditions.

Experts believe BAME communities have been hit harder by Covid-19 because ethnic minorities are more likely to be poorer and therefore in worse health, and more likely to work in public-facing jobs  leaving them vulnerable to catching the illness.

The new report for Mr Khan made the same two conclusions, and it pointed out that a disproportionate number of BAME people work in risky jobs in the NHS and care homes. It comes after a study last week concluded BAME people are not genetically more at risk, but face a greater danger because of their life circumstances.

Public Health England, which found a similar risk of death for BAME people in a long-awaited report published in June, warned historic racism and the hostility towards immigrants was partly to blame.

The study into Covid-19 death rates in London found that black men face a 1.9 times higher risk of dying than white men, even when their differences in age, where they live, and their wealth and health are taken into account (yellow bars indicate the increased risk when all those factors except race are taken out of the equation)

When the data does not take into account the fact that non-white people are likely to be poorer and in worse general health, the difference in risk of death is considerably higher, reaching higher than a four-fold increase among black men and women

Public Health England previously found the mortality rate - the number of people dying with the coronavirus out of each 100,000 people - was considerably higher for black men than other groups. The risk for black women, people of Asian ethnicity, and mixed race people was also higher than for white people of either sex. The report warned the rate for the 'Other' category was 'likely to be an overestimate'

A PHE report from July found that while white people make up a majority of Covid-19 hospital cases, they are more likely to be treated on normal wards with less severe infection. This graph shows that of admitted hospital cases, although most are white, BAME people are more than twice as likely to require treatment in ICU

Mr Khan is urging the Government to tackle the inequalities which have led to Londoners experiencing a disproportionate impact of Covid-19.

It comes as cases continue to rise in the capital, with a spokesperson for Mr Khan warning last week London was at a 'very worrying tipping point' and 'immediate action' was needed to regain control of the spread.

The report also discovered men were more likely to die from Covid-19, according to Office for National Statistics (ONS) data.

But women had experienced disproportionate economic, social and psychological impacts, it also concluded.

Academics pointed to data showing mothers are 47 per cent more likely to have lost or resigned from their jobs than fathers.

Among the report's other revelations was that death rates for men in lower-paid, manual roles were three times higher than those in management, business and desk-based jobs.

Meanwhile, disabled Londoners have reported increased difficulties performing practical tasks such as shopping for groceries, as well as finding accessible, up-to-date health information about the virus.

Mr Khan is urging the Government to tackle the inequalities which have led to Londoners experiencing a disproportionate impact of Covid-19 after the independent report highlighted the uneven effect of the pandemic in relation to factors such as ethnicity and gender

BAME PEOPLE ARE NOT GENETICALLY MORE AT RISK OF DYING FROM COVID-19, STUDY SAYS Black, Asian, and minority ethnic (BAME) people are not genetically more at-risk of dying from Covid-19, a study concluded last week. BAME communities are two to three times more likely to die from coronavirus than other members of the population, analysis of NHS data has previously revealed. However, scientists in Japan and the US found no differences in seven genes associated with viral entry of SARS-CoV-2  the virus that causes Covid-19  across ethnic groups. Pre-existing medical conditions and environmental factors are more likely to blame for people of ethnic minorities being more likely to die of the disease, they said. Advertisement

The study also suggested a lack of London-focused, Covid-specific data was hindering efforts to assess the disease's full impact on those with protected characteristics, and on the capital in general.

Mr Khan said the report proved Covid-19 has had a disproportionate impact on 'disabled Londoners, people in areas of high deprivation and those from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds'.

'It is simply not right for ministers to say they will do "whatever it takes" to mitigate the effects of the coronavirus crisis but then stand by as whole sectors of our society find their lives and their livelihoods at risk,' he said.

'I urge ministers to invest in our communities and the organisations supporting those most at risk, to ensure that accessible health guidance is available to all and, as case numbers are rising again, that there is adequate support in place for those who've lost their jobs, had their hours cut or been forced to self-isolate.'

Throughout the Covid-19 crisis, Mr Khan has been outspoken on the need for the Government to address the 'structural problems' in society which have led to BAME communities being disproportionately impacted by the virus.

When an ONS report released at the height of the pandemic suggested Covid-19 was adversely affecting BAME communities, Mr Khan said: 'The Government cannot ignore the structural problems in our society that mean minority ethnic Londoners are more likely to work in lower paid jobs, live in overcrowded accommodation and suffer from underlying health conditions which put them at greater risk.'

BAME BRITONS 'ARE FOUR TIMES MORE LIKELY TO HAVE HAD COVID-19' Black and Asian Britons are up to four times more likely to have had already fought off the coronavirus, official data suggested in the summer. A government-run surveillance scheme, which tested 36,000 people across England, revealed 4.5 per cent of white people had developed antibodies  substances created by the immune system in response to specific pathogens. In comparison, the rate was 12.2 per cent for Asian Brits, 7.7 per cent for black people and as high as 16.7 per cent for other ethnic groups, according to the report by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Results of swab tests  which tell if someone is currently infected and not if they have had it in the past  showed a similar discrepancy between ethnicity, with between 0.64 and 0.69 per cent of black and Asian people ever testing positive for the coronavirus. Just 0.30 per cent of white people swabbed between April 26 and June 27 tested positive for the disease. Results also showed that the risk was nine times higher (2.69 per cent) for people of other ethnic groups, which included Arabs. Statisticians warned the findings do not prove for certain that people of BAME backgrounds are at greater risk of being infected. But they add to the mountain of evidence that has found people of BAME backgrounds are more likely to catch Covid-19 and become seriously ill or die from it than white people. Advertisement

Health chiefs launched a probe to investigate the disproportionate impact of Covid-19 on BAME Brits in April, prompted by a wave of evidence that showed white people were less likely to die from the disease.

Public Health England's report, finally published in the summer, said historic racism and hostility towards immigrants could be partly to blame for the disparity.

It said 'hostile environments' towards immigrants may have affected settled BAME communities through 'heightened prejudice' and 'societal tensions'  but did not explain how this has directly raised the risk of Covid-19.

The report also claimed a lack of trust in the NHS may have left some BAME groups reluctant to seek help early on, potentially making their disease harder to treat. It said some people were 'fearful of being deported' if they presented to hospital.

And it claimed that BAME NHS staff may be less likely to speak up when they have concerns about personal protective equipment (PPE) or their risk.

The report - based on discussions with 4,000 people - noted that historic racism has meant non-white communities are generally poorer so have worse health, putting them at higher risk if they catch Covid-19.

Ethnic minority people  in particular those from black, Bangladeshi or Pakistani backgrounds  have for decades been more likely to have lower-paid jobs, leaving them with less money to live healthy lifestyles.

BAME people are more likely to have conditions such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes, PHE said, which make them more vulnerable to Covid-19.

And they are more likely to work in risky jobs in which they spend time in contact with members of the public, increasing the chance of them catching the disease.

Mr Hancock admitted that the report 'exposed huge disparities in the health of our nation' and his counterpart in the Labour Party, Shadow Health Secretary Jonathan Ashworth, noted: 'Covid thrives on inequalities'.

Ministers this summer gave scientists 4.3million to investigate why black and Asian people are more likely to die from Covid-19.

UK Research and Innovation and the National Institute for Health Research funded six research projects to examine the link between coronavirus and ethnicity.

Since the Covid-19 epidemic started multiple studies have repeatedly shown a link to Vitamin D deficiency yet when Matt Hancock was asked about it he WRONGLY said a British study had found the opposite. Is he ignorant or incompetent?

MINISTERS WOULD ALREADY KNOW FOR DEFINITE WHETHER VITAMIN D WORKED IF DEFICIENCIES WERE MORE COMMON IN WHITE PEOPLE, EXPERT SAYS More research would have been done into the link between vitamin D and Covid-19 if deficiency was a bigger problem for white people, a doctor has claimed. Ethnic minorities more often suffer from vitamin D deficiency because their skin is slower to make it from sunlight. Eighty per cent of people from South Asian backgrounds, for example, are deficient in the nutrient, compared to one in five Brits overall. Experts have for months called on officials to take a proper look into the nutrient's effect on Covid-19 patients due to its immune system-boosting properties, with an array of evidence suggesting it is beneficial. But scientists have yet to be able to conclusively say that the sunshine vitamin does help because of a lack of gold-standard trials, such as the one carried out to prove that the cheap steroid dexamethasone boosts survival rates for the most critically-ill patients. Dr Aseem Malhotra, one of Britain's leading anti-obesity campaigners and a former NHS cardiologist, told MailOnline 'underlying racism' is clearly to blame for the lack of clinical trials into vitamin D. He said: 'Vitamin D plays an essential role in innate and adaptive immunity. Severe deficiency, which has been strongly correlated with adverse outcomes from Covid-19, also has a high prevalence among BAME groups in the UK. 'The majority of those from South Asian or black backgrounds are either deficient or severely deficient. 'This has been known for years yet little has been done to act on it, in part because of how endemic racism is in both medical research and practice.' Dr Malhotra, author of Sunday Times best-seller 'The 21-Day Immunity Plan', added that everybody should consider taking vitamin D during the winter months. He said: 'There is no significant harm from supplementing the public with vitamin D, and only likely a benefit.' Advertisement

Health Secretary Matt Hancock was told to 'get his facts straight' today after shooting down vitamin D as a potential coronavirus treatment despite a growing body of evidence from around the world suggesting it works.

Experts have for months been calling for officials to look into the immune system-boosting nutrient's effect on Covid-19 patients after a mountain of research showed a link to vitamin D deficiency.

Mr Hancock told the House of Commons last week he had green-lit a Government-funded 'trial' investigating vitamin D and that it did not 'appear to have any impact'.

But officials have since admitted that no clinical trials had taken place and claim it was a slip of the tongue from the health secretary - who was also staunchly opposed to face masks in the spring and claimed they were 'extremely weak' in stopping Covid-19's spread.

According to national surveys in the UK, roughly one in five people have low vitamin D levels, the equivalent of 13million Brits.

Mr Hancock has now agreed to meet experts to to hear the growing case for the vitamin, which the body produces when exposed to the sun. But his flippant dismissal of vitamin D has sparked fury among scientists and MPs who today said time is running out for ministers to act, as levels of the 'sunshine vitamin' drop dramatically in autumn and winter.

Experts said his comments 'displayed incredible ignorance', while Liberal Democrat MP Layla Morgan told MailOnline the secretary of state 'needs to be listening, not dismissing'. She added: 'I hope Matt Hancock will take a less flippant approach to potential treatments in future and get his facts straight before making such comments. We're in a crisis, it's time for politicians to stop playing science and listen to the experts.'

A mountain of studies have found an overwhelming amount of people who test positive for Covid-19 do not have enough vitamin D in their bodies and the sickest of patients are often deficient. Scientists have not yet been able to pin down whether the nutrient deficiency is making people more vulnerable to the disease or whether becoming unwell causes vitamin D levels to crash.

But vitamin D supplements are safe, cheap and readily available - costing as little as 6p a pill and sold in most pharmacies, supermarkets and health shops - which has left experts baffled as to why Mr Hancock would be so quick to dismiss them.

It comes after research in Spain, which MailOnline covered last month, suggested supplementing Covid-19 hospital patients with the vitamin saves lives.

With very limited treatment options - only a handful of steroid have been proven to help Covid-19 patients - the UK Government has had to rollback economically-crippling and socially-constraining lockdown measures. Ministers have threatened a second lockdown unless the virus's current trajectory is curtailed.

If proven to work, vitamin D could provide a cheap and easy way to protect Brits and keep the nation ticking over until a vaccine is ready.

But Matt Hancock told the House of Commons last week he had green-lit a Government-funded 'trial' investigating vitamin D and that it did not 'appear to have any impact'

Vitamin D supplements are safe, cheap and readily available - costing as little as 6p a pill and sold in most pharmacies, supermarkets and health shops

As well as in supplements, vitamin D is also available through foods, including oily fish, red meat and eggs (right). A Singaporean study earlier in the year of nearly 800 people found almost 99% of Covid-19 patients who died had vitamin D deficiency (left)

A study by Tehran University, in Iran, and Boston University analysed data from 235 hospitalised patients with Covid-19. Patients who had sufficient vitamin D - of at least 30 ng/mL were 51.5 per cent less likely to die from the disease. Although no one in the study under age 40 died, fatalities (red) were more common among vitamin D deficient people (under the black line) of all ages

A correlation graph showing the relationship between levels of viamin D (bottom, measured in nmol/l) compared to infection numbers of coronavirus by the University of East Anglia. Countries with low vitamin D levels tend to have the highest case rates per million - but the graph was from a study in May, when outbreaks looked very different to how they do now and testing was patchy in most countries

WHAT HAVE JUST SOME STUDIES INTO VITAMIN D AND COVID-19 SHOWN? When? September. By who? Cordoba University in Spain. What did scientists study? 50 Covid-19 hospital patients with Covid-19 were given vitamin D. Their health outcomes were compared with 26 volunteers in a control group who were not given the tablets. What did they find? Only one of the 50 patients needed intensive care and none died. Half of 26 virus sufferers who did not take vitamin D were later admitted to intensive care and two died. What were the study's limitations? Small pool of volunteers. Patients' vitamin D levels were not checked before admission. Comorbidities were not taken into consideration. When? September. By Who? University of Chicago. What did scientists study? 500 Americans' vitamin D levels were tested. Researchers then compared volunteers' levels with how many caught coronavirus. What did they find? 60 per cent higher rates of Covid-19 among people with low levels of the 'sunshine vitamin'. What were the study's limitations? Researchers did not check for other compounding factors. Unclear whether or not volunteers were vitamin D deficient at the time of their coronavirus tests. People's age, job and where they lived - factors which greatly increase the chance of contracting the virus - were not considered. When? September. By Who? Tehran University, in Iran, and Boston University. What did scientists study? Analysed data from 235 hospitalized patients with Covid-19. What did they find? Patients who had sufficient vitamin D - of at least 30 ng/mL were 51.5 per cent less likely to die from the disease. They also had a significantly lower risk of falling seriously ill or needing ventilation. Patients who had plenty of the nutrient also had less inflammation - often a deadly side effect of Covid-19. What were the study's limitations? Confounding factors, such as smoking, and social economic status were not recorded for all patients and could have an impact on illness severity. When? July. By Who? Tel Aviv University, Israel. What did scientists study? 782 people who tested positive for coronavirus had their vitamin d levels prior to infection assessed retrospectively and compared to healthy people. What did they find? People with vitamin D levels below 30 ng/ml - optimal - were 45 per cent more likely to test positive and 95 per cent more likely to be hospitalised. What were the study's limitations? Did not look at underlying health conditions and did not check vitamin D levels at the time of infection. When? June. By Who? Brussels Free University. What did scientists study? Compared vitamin D levels in almost 200 Covid-19 hospital patients with a control group of more than 2,000 healthy people. What did they find? Men who were hospitalised with the infection were significantly more likely to have a vitamin D deficiency than healthy men of the same age. Deficiency rates were 67 per cent in the COVID-19 patient group, and 49 per cent in the control group. The same was not found for women. What were the study's limitations? Independent scientists say blood vitamin D levels go down when people develop serious illness, which the study did not take into consideration. This suggests that it is the illness that is leading to lower blood vitamin D levels in this study, and not the other way around. When? June. By who? Inha University in Incheon, South Korea. What did scientists study? 50 hospital patients with Covid-19 were checked for levels of all vital vitamins and compared to a control group. What did they find? 76 per cent of them were deficient in vitamin D, and a severe vitamin D deficiency (<10 ng/dl) was found in 24 per cent of Covid-19 patients and just 7 per cent in the control group. What were the study's limitations? Small sample size and researchers never accounted for vitamin levels dropping when they fall ill. When? June. By Who?. Independent scientists in Indonesia. What did scientists study? Checked vitamin D levels in 780 Covid-19 hospital patients. What did they find? Almost 99% of patients who died had vitamin D deficiency. Of patients with vitamin D levels higher than 30 ng/ml - considered optimal - only per cent died. What were the study's limitations? It was not peer-reviewed by fellow scientists, a process that often uncovers flaws in studies. When? May. By Who? University of Glasgow. What did scientists study? Vitamin D levels in 449 people from the UK Biobank who had confirmed Covid-19 infection. What did they find? Vitamin D was associated with an increased risk in infection - but not after adjustment for confounders such as ethnicity. It led to the team to conclude their 'findings do not support a potential link between vitamin D concentrations and risk of Covid-19 infection.' What were the study's limitations? Vitamin D levels were taken 10 to 14 years beforehand. When? May. By Who? University of East Anglia. What did scientists study? Average levels of vitamin D in populations of 20 European countries were compared with Covid-19 infection and death rates at the time. What did they find? The mean level of vitamin D in each country was 'strongly associated' with higher levels of Covid-19 cases and deaths. The authors said at the time: 'The most vulnerable group of population for COVID19 is also the one that has the most deficit in Vitamin D.' What were the study's limitations? The number of cases in each country was affected by the number of tests performed, as well as the different measures taken by each country to prevent the spread of infection. And it only looked at correlation, not causation. When? May. By Who? Northwestern University. What did scientists study? Crunched data from dozens of studies around the world that included vitamin D levels among Covid-19 patients. What did they find? Patients with a severe deficiency are twice as likely to experience major complications and die. What were the study's limitations? Cases and deaths in each country was affected by the number of tests performed. Advertisement

NEW FINGER PRICK TEST CAN SPOT VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY IN JUST 15 MINUTES Britons can now find out whether they are deficient in vitamin D in as little as fifteen minutes, thanks to a new test. The pioneering DIY kit  marketed as the first-of-its-kind in the world  works on just a few drops of blood taken from the finger. It works in exactly the same way as how diabetics check their blood sugar levels, and similar kits exist to look for Covid-19 antibodies. Blood is mixed with a solution before it is fed into a 10cm device, which analyses the sample to determine vitamin D levels. Users are able to find out their results through the Your Personalised Vitamin's (YPV) app, by scanning the device through their phone. It is the first vitamin D test kit to give a quantitative result, meaning the result gives a precise reading rather than just high or low. Other do-it-yourself vitamin D tests, which do not give a quantitative result instead giving a basic reading just like a pregnancy test, are sold online and for around 10. YPV's home-kit costs 40. Advertisement

Mr Hancock shot down vitamin D's potential last week in reply to a question from Dr Rupa Huq, the Labour MP for Ealing and Acton Central.

He said: 'Vitamin D is one of the many things we have looked into, to see whether it reduces the incidence or impact of coronavirus. The results were that it does not appear to have any impact.'

Mr Hancock appeared to be referring to a review of evidence conducted by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), an arm of the Department of Health.

NICE conducted a review of a limited number of studies published by June. It noted that a stronger immune system provided greater protection against Covid-19 and admitted that vitamin D boosted immune function.

But it was not convinced there was enough evidence to show that giving doses of the vitamin to already-sick Covid-19 patients provided any benefit.

Dr Huq, in a point of order in parliament on Monday this week, said: '[Mr Hancock] said that he had conducted a trial and there was no effect.

'It turns out that there was no trial. The word 'trial' implies fresh evidence, not reheated leftovers.'

Liberal Democrat MP Layla Morgan told MailOnline: 'This Government needs to be listening not dismissing.

'I hope Matt Hancock will take a less flippant approach to potential treatments in future and get his facts straight before making such comments.

'We're in a crisis, it's time for politicians to stop playing science and listen to the experts'

Professor Asif Ahmed, vice chancellor for healthcare at Aston University in Birmingham, said it was 'illogical' to say vitamin D has no effect on fighting illnesses.

He told MailOnline: 'We can't expect the secretary of state to know everything. So we can't put all the blame on him, but questions have to be asked about why none of his experts have looked into this properly.

'Even if there is a glimmer of hope - vitamin D supplements are safe, there's no dangers to taking them unless people take way too much.

'Even if taking vitamin D only reduces the chance of falling very ill with Covid-19, let's do it. The amount of millions we're spending on vaccines, public health measures and other treatments - why don't we just make everyone take supplements over winter.

'Even if we don't have conclusive data, we should go ahead. The Government still doesn't have conclusive data on wearing face masks, but we're wearing them and they're probably helping a little bit.

'We can't call for a big study into vitamin d then wait to years time and deicede. It'll be too late then.'

As well as in supplements, vitamin D is also available through foods, mainly oily fish. Black and ethnic minority people (BAME) are more likely to be deficient because it is harder for darker skin types to absorb the nutrient from sunlight.

Eighty per cent of people from South Asian backgrounds, for example, are deficient in the nutrient. Some believe this may one of the reasons BAME peolpe face a higher risk of dying from the illness, but this has yet to be proven.

The current advice from Public Health England and the NHS is for everybody to consider taking a daily supplement of 10 micrograms - the amount found in one small salmon fillet - during the winter months when sun is hard to come by.

'This is because you may not be getting enough vitamin D from sunlight if you're indoors most of the day,' the NHS advises, saying that supplements helps to keep bones healthy.

The NHS adds: 'There have been some reports about vitamin D reducing the risk of coronavirus. There is currently not enough evidence to support this.'

Charles Bangham, chairman in immunology at Imperial College London, told The Times: 'PHE already recommends that everybody take a daily vitamin D supplement but the message is not getting through to a large section of the population.

'As we move into autumn and winter, vitamin D levels will fall and more of the population will become deficient.

'On that basis, whatever is to be done must be done swiftly. We have nothing to lose but much to gain by eradicating deficiency.'

Studies linking vitamin D deficiency to poorer health outcomes from Covid-19 have been piling up since the pandemic hit earlier in the year.

The growing body of evidence prompted Jacqueline Dunkley-Bent, chief midwifery officer at NHS England, to send a memo to all maternity units in June warning that 'women low in vitamin D may be more vulnerable to coronavirus'.

The US Government's leading infectious disease expert, Antony Fauci, has admitted he takes vitamin D to boost his immune system against viruses.

But the most promising study into vitamin D's effects on Covid-19 was carried out by the University of Cordoba in Spain and published last month.

Researchers gave high doses of calcifediol  a type of vitamin D supplement  to 50 patients hospitalised with the disease.

They were given 1,000 micrograms of the supplement over the course of a week, with 550mcg on the first day and then two booster doses of 270mcg on days three and seven. The dose was much higher than the 70mcg weekly limit recommended by the NHS.

Scientists compared the participants' health with 26 volunteers in a control group who were not given the tablets, which are normally prescribed to patients with thyroid or kidney problems.

Just one patient given calcifediol fell ill enough to be admitted to intensive care, whereas half of the participants in the control group were taken to ICU and two died.

There were no deaths among volunteers receiving the vitamin and all 50 patients were eventually discharged by the end of the study.

Independent scientists, including some from NICE, said the findings were promising but there were too many flaws in the study's methods.

For example, the experts did not measure vitamin D levels before or after administering the drug. And participants' underlying health conditions were not defined.

Experts now believe Covid-19 causes a catastrophic build-up of a chemical called bradykinin, which makes blood vessels leaky and drives up the risk of inflammation.

Calcifediol is one of the few hormones which regulates the bradykinin and it can also prevent the immune system from going into overdrive. But this is just a theory and has still not been proven.

Professor Ian Jones, a virologist at the University of Reading, told MailOnline: 'My general view is that if there is no clear cut view on vitamin D after 6 months of debate then there is nothing in it.

'The bradykinin theory sounds plausible but it is just one of hundreds of factors that are induced by the infection and many cytokines also cause blood vessel leakage (its why you have hemorrhagic shock in several virus diseases). However. Hancock clearly claimed.'

Taking too much vitamin D can cause bone and organ damage over time, however, and scientists discouraged people from trying to self-medicate.

Meanwhile, Britons can now find out whether they are deficient in vitamin D in as little as fifteen minutes, thanks to a new test.

The pioneering DIY kit  marketed as the first-of-its-kind in the world  works on just a few drops of blood taken from the finger.

It works in exactly the same way as how diabetics check their blood sugar levels, and similar kits exist to look for Covid-19 antibodies.

Blood is mixed with a solution before it is fed into a 10cm device, which analyses the sample to determine vitamin D levels. Users are able to find out their results through the Your Personalised Vitamin's (YPV) app, by scanning the device through their phone.

It is the first vitamin D test kit to give a quantitative result, meaning the result gives a precise reading rather than just high or low.

Other do-it-yourself vitamin D tests, which do not give a quantitative result instead giving a basic reading just like a pregnancy test, are sold online and for around 10. YPV's home-kit costs 40.

Private clinics have for years offered Britons the chance to find out whether they are deficient in the vitamin through similar tests. But these can take up to a week to give results because they must be analysed in a laboratory.

YPV offers plans to tailor the results of the test to individual needs, advising deficient Britons on exactly how much of the nutrient they need.

Chris Chapman, chief executive officer of manufacturer YPV, said: 'We have seen a mountain of evidence that vitamin D has a positive, and at times life-saving, impact on people suffering with severe symptoms of coronavirus. It is not just the abundance of evidence that points to this conclusion.

'We fundamentally disagree with the Health Secretary on this matter, his comments display incredible ignorance. We urge him to practice his well-trodden mantra by following the science, which overwhelmingly points to the benefits of vitamin D when it comes tackling coronavirus. We are deeply disappointed about his comments.'
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Linkedin Budi Sutrisno (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Thu, October 1, 2020 08:29 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4859705 2 National The-Jakarta-Post-change-of-guard,The-Jakarta-Post,new-chief-editor,M-Taufiqurrahman,Nezar-Patria Free

As The Jakarta Post continues on its path of transformation, it has appointed M. Taufiqurrahman as its seventh editor-in-chief, effective on Oct. 1.

The change of leadership comes at a critical time when the world is facing the COVID-19 pandemic, which has taken more than 1 million lives worldwide and brought countries into recession.

Taufiq, 43, is replacing Nezar Patria who had served as the Posts chief editor since 2018. He was the deputy chief editor, serving at Nezars side as he led the Posts first phase of digital transformation, converging its newspaper and digital operations.

Amid the global trend of declining print revenue during the pandemic, it is expected in the coming years that the Post can accelerate the transformation through strengthening its digital presence and focusing on meeting the needs of its local and international readers.

Taufiq said the pandemic had presented a greater threat to the media industry, which had changed tremendously with the outsize role of social media and aggregator service.

COVID-19 and its political ramifications also brought a fresh realization about the importance of the media, old and new. More and more people rely on the media to get their news and debunk some fake news and hoaxes about COVID-19 and politics in general, he said on Wednesday.

Taufiq has been with the Post for 16 years, starting off as a cub reporter in 2004. In the last several years, he has taken on leadership roles as managing editor before becoming the deputy chief editor.

Moving forward, he said he had set a vision for the Post to chart a new course that would allow for the publication to continue producing good journalism and have a sustainable operation for the unforeseeable future.

While expressing his highest appreciation for Nezar for the successful digital and print newsroom convergence, the Post CEO Yudi Wanandi welcomes Taufiq on his new journey.

These are hard days, but none of us are alone in this. With Taufiq at the helm, we are certain we can weather the storm together, he said.

Yudi said as a media organization, the Post remains committed in its role as a beacon of fairness and truth.

Established in 1983, the Post has become the leading English language newspaper in Indonesia, guarding the country through political and economic crises and its transition to democracy.

During the pandemic, it has continued to push boundaries to keep informing readers during the worlds worst public health crisis.

Since March, it has put down paywall on COVID-19 articles on its website so that people can get the latest update on the coronavirus situation in the country and beyond. For the first time in its 37 years of existence, the Post has also printed remotely to keep staff members safe during the outbreak.

To improve engagement, it has also pioneered webinars and online talk shows that have gathered thousands of views and sparked discussions on current affairs in the country.

In August, the Post won the 2020 Public Service Journalism Award from the Society of Publishers in Asia (SOPA) for the #NamaBaikKampus (#CampusReputation) collaboration.

Along with seven prominent news publishers in Asia Pacific, it is currently participating in the first Google News Initiative Asia-Pacific (GNI APAC) Subscription Lab, an initiative from the World Association of Newspapers and News Publishers (WAN-IFRA), FTI Consulting and Google to help the companies develop their digital subscription business.

Nezar, who is leaving the Post after being appointed director at state-owned postal company PT Pos Indonesia, congratulated Taufiq, calling him one of the Post best members.

Under his direction, the Post can leap forward, he said.

Nezar also expressed his appreciation of the people he had worked with at the Post, saying that the publications strong resources could propel the development of the outlet to a higher level.

The Post has a strong influence that was not built overnight but by 37 years of hard work by journalists and the best minds who follow the principles of good journalism  a few among the industry in the country that can consistently do so, he said.
Andy Burnham has called for support for the arts (Dominic Lipinski/PA)

Oscar-winning actress Vanessa Redgrave has joined the mayor of Greater Manchester in calling for support for the cultural sector.

Andy Burnham appeared alongside the actress outside Manchesters Central Library on Thursday.

Redgrave has been campaigning for support for the arts across the country.

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Mr Burnham said: I am delighted the wonderful Vanessa Redgrave has brought her campaign to Manchester to highlight the need for further support for theatres, art galleries, museums, music venues and festivals in our city region.

Although some organisations have now been able to reopen their doors, many remain shut with no idea when they will be able to operate again, placing huge concerns on those who work in the industry as the furlough scheme comes to an end.

The pair were also joined by theatre director Marianne Elliott, who directed the Tony Award-winning The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night Time, and BBC Young Musician Of The Year winner Jennifer Pike.

The Government has previously announced a 1.57 billion support package for the arts amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The government has held interest rates on small savings schemes unchanged for October-December 2020 even as banks have been on a rate-cutting spree, following the covid-19 crisis.

The State Bank of India (SBI) did its most recent cut on 10 September, reducing the one-year fixed deposit (FD) rate to 4.9% from 5.1%. HDFC Bank had last reduced its rates last month. The one-year FD in HDFC Bank now yields 5.1% and in ICICI Bank 5%. The same one-year FD with Post Office gives 5.5%.

The gap between bank FDs and Post Office FDs, which are part of the small savings schemes is wider in the five-year bucket. Here, the SBI FD gives 5.4%, HDFC Bank FD gives 5.5% (for five years and one day) and ICICI FD gives 5.5%.

This compares with 6.7% on a Post Office 5-year deposit and 6.8% on a five-year National Savings Certificate. The Public Provident Fund (PPF), which is not strictly comparable with FDs due to its long tenure of 15 years, is giving a return of 7.1%.

Banks offer rates that are 0.5% higher for senior citizens, however, such investors can access the five-year Senior Citizens Savings Scheme (SCSS) at the Post Office which offers 7.4%. The SCSS has a term of five years, which can be extended by another three years.

"If your bank FDs are close to maturity, you can gain higher returns by making the new FD at the Post Office. Post Office FDs are guaranteed by the government. The tax treatment is also the same as bank FDs. However, you may not get the same level of net banking and bill payment services for Post Office accounts," said Amol Joshi, founder, Plan Rupee Investment Services.

There are also more rigid conditions for premature termination of the FD. Post Office FDs cannot be prematurely terminated in the first six months. If terminated between the first 6-12 months, you only get the interest as a Post Office savings account, which is at 4%.

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Two Boeing 777 aircraft, with missile defence systems which will serve on Prime Minister Narendra Modis Air India One fleet, will arrive in India today.

The two aircraft were initially scheduled to land in India early 2020 but it was delayed due to operational issues.

Air India had sent the two long-haul Boeing 777-300ER aircraft to a Boeing facility in Dallas to be modified for VVIP travel. The aircraft will only be used by PM Narendra Modi, President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu.

Heres all you need to know about the first customised Boeing 777 aircraft:

- The aircraft has its own missile defence system called the Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures (LAIRCM) and Self-Protection Suites (SPS), which is capable of countering missile threats.

- The two aircraft will be on par with the US Presidents Air Force One in terms of security measures.

- The pair can fly between the US and India in one go without having to stop for refuelling.

- The two Boeing 777 aircraft will have the Self-Protection Suites (SPS), which is used in the US Presidents Air Force One.

- SPS includes large aircraft infrared countermeasures, counter-measures dispensing system and integrated defensive electronic warfare suite . These protection systems can jam enemy radar frequencies and divert heat-seeking missiles by disturbing their guidance systems.

- This will be Indias first dedicated aircraft for the President, Vice President and Prime Minister - who usually travel via state-run airline, Air India.

- The Boeing 777 aircraft will be operated by Indian Air Force pilots and not by pilots of Air India.

- Air India Engineering Services Limited (AIESL), which is a subsidiary of the Indian national carrier, will be maintaining the two new planes.

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By PTI

BEIJING: Millions of travel-starved Chinese hit the roads as the country on Thursday shut down for eight-day official holidays to celebrate the 71st anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC) and the Mid-Autumn Festival which overlaps with the National Day holidays.

This is the first major holiday season for the Chinese after the COVID-19 hit Wuhan and rest of the country in January this year before it spread to the world, halting the Chinese New Year Celebrations with lockdowns.

The National Day Holiday is the second biggest holiday for the Chinese during which millions of people travel abroad and the country visiting their relatives and major tourist sites.

With travel restrictions removed for domestic travel after the COVID-19 was brought under control, transport services and tour operators expected a large number of Chinese to travel domestic destinations as China has not yet opened international travel.

China's National Health Commission on Thursday said 11 imported COVID-19 cases were confirmed on Wednesday.

READ| Hong Kong police arrest 60 for protesting on China holiday

As of Wednesday, the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases on the Chinese mainland had reached 85,414, including the 186 patients still being treated, the Commission said.

Altogether 80,594 patients have been discharged after recovery, and 4,634 died of the disease on the mainland so far, the commission said.

The National Day celebrations began with a flag-raising ceremony at the Tiananmen Square in Beijing with the presence of a large number of people.

There are likely to be about 600 million trips made across the nation during the eight-day break starting from Thursday, according to a report released by online travel service provider Trip, as people travel for leisure or to reunite with families after being largely cooped up by social distancing measures since last winter.

This year's holiday is the longest 'golden week' holiday as the National Day holiday overlaps with the Mid-Autumn Festival, a holiday for family reunions.

Seats on high-speed trains on several routes were snapped up in a few hours on the first day of presale early this month.

The total number of domestic flights taken during the holiday period is expected to exceed 15 million, a 10 per cent increase on last year, Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post quoted as saying online travel booking website Qunar, noting that demand was boosted by many mainland travellers taking domestic trips who would otherwise have gone overseas.

China's railway passenger trips are expected to reach 108 million during the National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holiday, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

China also hopes that the Golden Week holiday will generate the much-needed fillip to the sagging economy hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, specially the domestic spending by Chinese to celebrate the holidays.

The Chinese government hopes for a quick recovery of the world's second largest economy as China is the first country to recover from the coronavirus pandemic.

Consumer spending accounted for only 56 per cent of China's gross domestic product last year as the country continue to depend on exports, which were hit by the pandemic.

In the first eight months of 2020, the rebound in retail sales and household consumption in China lagged behind investment, production and exports, fanning concerns that a broader economic recovery could be unsustainable if incomes and consumer spending fail to return to the pre-coronavirus levels, the Post report added.
China has released the first set of 'selfies' taken by Tianwen-1, the Chinese spacecraft currently travelling towards the Red Planet as part of the country's first Mars exploration.

Images show the probe, consisting of a golden orbiter and a silver lander, dazzling in the darkness of the universe more than two months after leaving Earth.

The photos were captured by a 680-gram camera installed on the outer wall of Tianwen-1 after the probe released the tiny device into space.

China has released the first set of 'selfies' taken by Tianwen-1, the Chinese spacecraft currently travelling towards the Red Planet as part of the country's first Mars exploration

The probe, a golden orbiter and a silver lander, is seen dazzling in the darkness of the universe, a sign that China's most ambitious space mission yet appears to be on track

Tianwen-1, named after a 2,000-year-old Chinese poem that ponders on stars and planets, consists of an orbiter, a lander and a rover and weighs 530 pounds (240kg).

It was blasted into space aboard a Long March-5 on July 23, marking China's first Mars mission as the country seeks to race Russia and the US to become a major space power.

The unmanned space probe is due to arrive on the Red Planet next February after a seven-month, 34-million-mile voyage.

As of Wednesday, it is more than 24million kilometres (15million miles) from Earth en route to the red planet, the National Space Administration said in a post.

The images released by the Chinese authorities on Thursday were the first set of 'selfies' taken by the unmanned space probe.

After receiving commands from Earth, the on-board camera was released by Tianwen-1 into space and took one picture every second with its two wide-angle lenses installed on each side of the device.

The images were then sent back to Tianwen-1 via Wi-Fi and then dispatched to Earth.

An animation produced by Chinese state media Xinhua demonstrates how the camera is released into space by the unmanned space probe before taking the first 'selfies'

China's largest carrier rocket, the Long March 5, blasted off with the Tianwen-1 probe on July 23 from Wenchang Space Launch Centre on the southern island of Hainan

The officials shared the photos on October 1, which marks the start of China's Golden Week, an eight-day holiday celebrating the Chinese National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival.

The launch of Tianwen-1 came three days after the UAE launched its own Mars orbiter and a week before NASA's scheduled launch of the Perseverance rover.

The countries took advantage of a period when Earth and Mars are favourably aligned for a short journey.

After watching the US and the Soviet Union lead the way during the Cold War, China has poured billions of dollars into its military-led space programme.

This is not China's first attempt at Mars  in 2011, a Chinese orbiter accompanying a Russian mission was lost when the spacecraft failed to get out of Earth's orbit after launching from Kazakhstan, eventually burning up in the atmosphere.

This is an illustration of what the Tianwen-1 rover could look like when it lands on Mars. The unmanned space probe developed by China is set to reach the Red Planet next February

China's most ambitious space mission includes a Mars orbiter, that will carry the lander and rover until release, a lander, that will parachute down the the surface carrying the rover, and a rover that will study the planet's soil and atmosphere for signs of life after they land

This is not China's first attempt at Mars  in 2011, a Chinese orbiter accompanying a Russian mission was lost when the spacecraft failed to get out of Earth's orbit after launching

But this time, China is going it alone and is fast-tracking by launching an orbiter and rover on the same mission instead of stringing them out.

China's secretive space programme has developed rapidly in recent decades.

Yang Liwei became the first Chinese astronaut in 2003, and last year Chang'e-4 became the first spacecraft from any country to land on the far side of the moon.

Landing on Mars is notoriously difficult, and only the US has successfully landed a spacecraft on Martian soil, doing it eight times since 1976.

China has made huge strides in the past decade and has laid the groundwork to assemble a space station by 2022 and gain a permanent foothold in Earth orbit.

The country has already sent two rovers to the Moon that are operational. With the second, the Yutu-2 rover, China became the first country to make a successful soft landing on the far side of the lunar surface.

The Moon missions gave China experience in operating spacecraft beyond Earth orbit, although Mars is another story.
Atul Agnihotri is happy to share that, All the members, cast, crew the family of the film Radhe are back on set to resume the shoot. The shoot will take place in Karjat and studios in Mumbai. It is scheduled to be completed in the next 15 -20 days. A few remaining sequences along with some action scenes and patchwork will be completed during this schedule. The team will be joined by the Action director from Chennai to finish up the action patchwork. All the cast and crew have gone through the COVID tests and a team of doctors will be examining everybody on the set. We hope to complete the shoot without any COVID cases or hassles of that sort. We are maintaining the utmost level of care and safety throughout." (Image: Instagram)
Shelburnes local 164 Royal Canadian Air Cadets Squadron has launched a website and is now offering their program virtually for the remainder of 2020.

We hope the website will help other families in our community learn about what a great program the cadets is, said 164 Commanding Officer, Captain Ruth Garwood.

The website, which is directed specifically to the 164 Air Cadets, has been developed over the last six months and looks to inform cadets, their families, and community members about the program. The site, as it expands, will include pictures, upcoming activities, and 164 Air Cadets apparel.

In the past, weve had a closed Facebook group, thats where weve kept a lot of our pictures and we have always communicated with our cadets that way, but now theyll be able to show their extended family and friends what we do and how much fun we have, said Garwood.

The 164 Air Cadets is headquartered by the Shelburne Royal Canadian Legion Branch 220. Capt. Charles Burbank founded the program in 1975 and according to the 164 Air Cadets website, has since had over 1,500 cadets go through the program. Last year, the program had between 30 and 35 cadets, from Shelburne, Orangeville and other surround areas in Dufferin County.

It involves thousands of cadets and adult leaders across the country, focusing on building leadership skills, citizenship, and community awareness, said Garwood talking about the cadet program.

Along with creating a website, the 164 Air Cadets have also made the move to a virtual program. Back in March, during the cusp of COVID-19, the cadets program switched from in-person to fully virtual, a change that Garwood says happened in a matter of days.

Since then, Staff Officers and Cadet Instructors have been developing a plan to continue teaching lessons from uniforms and ranks to leadership and aviation  all virtually. While some aspects of the program have been able to make the switch others, such as drill practice, Garwood says will wait until they are back in-person.

Flexibility and adaptability is what were stressing to our staff and cadet instructors, said Garwood. Were hoping that keeping the cadets engaged, keeping it fun for not only the cadets taking the lessons and classes, but the instructors, were allowing them to be flexible and adaptable which helps them bring more to the table.

Registration for the 164 Air Cadet 2020/2021 program opened in early September and can be found at www.164aircadets.com. Registration is available year round.
On a recent expedition to 99 Ranch Market, I went in with a game plan to stock up on the Asian foods Id been craving. But I may have gone overboard.

I bought tender enoki mushrooms, crisp apple pears, frozen pork-and-leek pot stickers, steamed chicken buns, chocolate dipped Pocky sticks and other assorted snacks. I also picked up moon cakes for this weeks Mid-Autumn Festival, celebrating family and the harvest.

Then the brown-sugar-boba-flavored treats caught my eye: tea cakes with a gooey filling and buttery crust, and candies featuring tapioca the size of a malt ball dipped into a creamy caramel. I piled both in my cart, the latest iterations of a trend that first emerged in late 2017.

Brown sugar boba, in case youre not acquainted, is a variation of bubble tea, with eye-catching tiger stripes of brown caramel streaking the sides of the cup of tea blended with milk and tapioca pearls invented by Tiger Sugar, a dessert chain in Taiwan (which, fortunately, is scheduled to open its first Bay Area location next Friday, Oct. 9, in Cupertino!).

An ice cream bar version subsequently followed the drink. Earlier this summer, I purchased them on a whim after glimpsing a snapshot on social media. I hadnt known Id lucked out until I noticed a shopper setting an armful onto the conveyor belt. The cool treat was a hot commodity.

The tender yet chewy boba and luscious ice cream, marbled with caramel, cheered me up immensely, and I hoped my latest impulse buys would provide another pick-me-up. Not only would the fat and sugar trigger an endorphin rush, the snacks also help make up for what many of us have been missing: travel.

Michael Maloney / SFC

Because the pandemic  and now a new round of wildfires and smoky air  have curtailed much of our lives in the Bay Area, strolling the aisles at an ethnic supermarket is about as close to going abroad as many of us will experience in the months to come.

I cant wander the night market in Taipei on a humid evening, or spend the afternoons snacking my way across a new city, but I can nosh away as if Im there.

When Im traveling, in addition to the usual historic and cultural sites, I always make a stop at the supermarket, curious to see how culture and convention is reflected and refracted in mass produced items.

Thats how I discovered that supermarkets sell milk in plastic bags in Canada, and that a discount superstore in Spain sold racks of massive Jamon Iberico. Wherever I visit, my favorite place to tour is the snack aisle, where I can conduct an anthropological study, checking out local flavors of familiar treats.

Though American brands stand in for our country abroad  globalization by way of McDonalds and Coca-Cola  Im intrigued to see what gets adapted and how. For example, Matcha Kit Kat in Japan or the savory varieties of potato chips around the globe: bulgogi from South Korea, barbacoa from Spain, adobadas from Mexico, masala in India, or sausage and onion in Australia.

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 Im drawn to ethnic markets for another reason besides novelty. For me, and for many children of the various diasporas, theyre an anchor of familiarity. When I was establishing my journalism career, moving from city to city and feeling lonely at times, Id seek out corner shops with crammed shelves and spacious markets with wide aisles and long prepared-food bars.

The moment I smelled the familiar spices and herbs; when I spotted the haw flakes, the White Rabbit Creamy Candy and Botan Rice Candy and when I heard snippets of Mandarin, I felt at home  like a kid again, no matter how old I was, no matter how far I might be from my family.

Whether youre homesick or yearning for new experiences, a visit to an ethnic market just might satisfy your appetites.

Vanessa Hua is the author of A River of Stars. Her column appears Fridays in Datebook. Email: datebook@sfchronicle.com
In this May 31, 2013, file photo, an H&M store is shown in New York. A German privacy watchdog said Thursday that it is fining clothing retailer H&M 35.3 million euros ($41 million) the company was found to have spied on some of its employees in Germany. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan, File)

A German privacy watchdog said Thursday that it is fining clothing retailer H&M 35.3 million euros ($41 million) after the company was found to have spied on some of its employees in Germany.

Hamburg's data protection commissioner said in a statement that the Swedish company collected private information about employees at a customer service center in Nuremberg, "ranging from rather harmless details to family issues and religious beliefs."

The information was recorded on a network drive accessible to up to 50 managers and "used, among other things, to obtain a detailed profile of employees for measures and decisions regarding their employment."

The data protection commissioner, Johannes Caspar, said that "the combination of collecting details about their private lives and the recording of their activities led to a particularly intensive encroachment on employees' civil rights."

The privacy violation was discovered after the data briefly became visible to all people on the company network, resulting in news reports about the information gathering.

H&M said in a statement that the practices in Nuremberg didn't correspond to company guidelines but that it nevertheless took full responsibility and had apologized unreservedly to the employees. The company said it would examine the fine issued.

Casper welcomed H&M's decision to pay compensation to employees at the Nuremberg service center and take measures to prevent future privacy breaches, saying the steps "show the intention to give the employees the respect and appreciation they deserve as dependent workers in their daily work for their company."

Explore further The retention effect of training

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A journalist in Honduras has been murdered after publicly condemning violence against LGBT+ people in the Central American country.

According to the Washington Blade, Luis Almendares was shot three times by two men on a motorbike in the city Comayagua while he was filming a Facebook Live. He passed away in hospital the following day.

Almendares was known for denouncing politicians and business owners in the area on issues of corruption and drug trafficking, according to local news outlets.

He also wrote on social media about a gay man who was attacked with a machete in Comayagua, saying that authorities refused to help the man, and publicly condemned violence against a trans woman. One of his colleagues told CNN en Espanol that he had received death threats because of his work.

Although it is not clear whether his murder was related to his work, Reporters Without Borders insisted in a statement that authorities should prioritize the hypothesis that it was linked to the victims reporting.

The organisation added: The endless spiral of violence against the Honduran press has to be brought to an end.

How many journalists need to be murdered before the authorities react, by reinforcing their mechanism for protecting journalists and by establishing a lasting plan for combatting impunity for these crimes?

Condenamos el crimen que le quito la vida al periodista Luis Almendares. De inmediato se inicio una investigacion por la Unidad Especial de la @PoliciaHonduras teniendo importantes avances. A los responsables les caera todo el peso de la ley. Nuestra solidaridad con su familia. pic.twitter.com/4RKrdhV1NE  Maria Andrea Matamoros Castillo (@mariandreamc) September 28, 2020

A spokesperson for the Honduran government, Maria Andrea Matamoros Castillo, said in a statement: We condemn the crime that took the life of journalist Luis Almendares.

Story continues

The Honduras National Polices Special Unit immediately launched an investigation Those responsible will feel the full weight of the law. Our solidarity with the family.

According to a report by Front Line Defenders (FLD), in 2019 Honduras was the third deadliest country in the world for activists who fought to defend the environment, free speech, LGBT+ rights and indigenous lands.

Although homosexuality was legalised in the country in 1899, same-sex marriages and adoptions have been banned in Honduras since 2005 and queer people face high levels of discrimination and violence.

Between 2009 and 2017, at least 264 LGBT+ people were murdered.
The Trump administration has proposed including a $20 billion extension in aid for the battered airline industry in a new stimulus proposal to House Democrats worth over $1.5 trillion, White House chief of staff Mark Meadows said on Wednesday.

House Democrats, who had sought $2.2 trillion in relief funds to combat the effects of the coronavirus on the U.S. economy, had been at loggerheads over the new measure with the White House, which had proposed legislation worth $1.5 trillion.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Meadows said the White House's latest offer was generous but 2 trillion was too much.

"If it starts with a 2, it's going to be a real problem," he told reporters en route to Washington from the swing state of Minnesota where U.S. President Donald Trump headlined a rally ahead of elections in November.

Also read: COVID-19 effect: Largest US airlines begin 32,000 furloughs as bailout hopes disappear
Nigerias Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, has cautioned Nigerians against seeking solutions to problems that are meant to be solved by their state governments.

He said Nigerians are disappointed with the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration because they expect magic from a government that is constitutionally only allowed to do less.

Looking for the Federal Government or a magic president is why we seem to have been disappointed. We are looking for the results in the wrong place, Mr Fashola said in an interview with Channels Television on Thursday.

The former Lagos State governor urged Nigerians to read the constitution for a better understanding of what is expected from different levels of government in the country, rather than expecting Mr Buhari to play the functions of their respective state and local government authorities.

Governance is not magic. It is the act of the possible and our responsibility is to always project hope. Perhaps those who feel that way (disappointed) should be made to realise that what we expect of the Nigerian federal government lies more with the state government and the local governmentsome of the most basic things.

What we should do is to focus on the government that is closest to us. I will urge people to go and read the constitution; the powers the president has are about 45, many of them are categorised as power but they are even functions and duties.

The government that can transform us and give us what we want quickly are the governments closest to us  state and local government, he explained.

Mr Fashola identified primary education, healthcare, among others as part of the responsibilities people should task their state and local government authorities to deliver.

The ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), in its race to win the 2015 general elections, had promised Nigerians change at all levels of government.

The APC controls not less than 19 of the total 36 states in the country while the main opposition PDP and APGA control 16 and one state respectively.
Rahul Gandhi has been detained by Uttar Pradesh police while he was on his way to meet the Hathras gangrape victim's family. Gandhi asked the police why he was being detained. "I want to walk to Hathras alone. Please tell me under which section you are arresting me," he asked the police. UP Police told him that he was being arrested under IPC Section 188 for violation of law and order. Gandhi and sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra were marching to Hathras along with hundreds of supporters amid a nationwide outrage over the death of the Hathras gangrape victim.

Noida ADCP Ranvijay Singh said that the Gandhis violated the Epidemic Act and that they will not be allowed to proceed.

Rahul Gandhi alleged that the police pushed him to the ground and lathi-charged as he and his sister were marching on the Delhi-UP highway. "Just now police pushed me, lathicharged me and threw me to the ground. I want to ask, can only Modi Ji walk in this country? Can't a normal person walk? Our vehicle was stopped, so we started walking," Rahul Gandhi asked.

The UP administration had implemented a ban on large gatherings and put up barricades along the border. The administration cited coronavirus for the ban. "Section 144 (of the Code of Criminal Procedure) has been imposed in the district. It will be in force till October 31," District Magistrate PK Lakshkar said on Thursday.

Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi's vehicle crossed the border but they were stopped at Greater Noida -- around 140 km away from Hathras. The duo then climbed out of their car and started walking accompanied by scores of Congress workers. They were shouting slogans against UP CM Yogi Adityanath. They were pushed by the police force.

UP Police have, however, said that the restrictions were in place due to the pandemic and that several policemen were diagnosed with coronavirus. Meanwhile, Congress has said that these are tactics to keep them away from the victim's village. Media has also been barred from the village.

The Samajwadi Party has also demanded the resignation of UP CM Yogi Adityanath.

The Dalit woman had suffered multiple fractures, paralysis and severe spinal injury after she was assaulted by four upper caste men. The UP Police allegedly took away her body and cremated her forcibly with the family locked at home.

Also read: Hathras gang rape: NHRC issues notices to UP govt, state DGP

Also read: Hathras gangrape case: UP govt forms 3-member SIT panel, family says victim forcibly cremated
A former coal magnate who fought mining health rules has now reportedly applied for federal black lung benefits. (AP2007)

A former coal magnate who fought mining health rules has reportedly filed for federal black lung benefits.

Robert Murray ran the biggest private coal company in the US for decades and rejected regulations designed to prevent workers from getting the disease.

In his application with the US Department of Labor he says he is now heavily dependent on oxygen and near death, according to ABC News.

Mr Murray, 80, is the former CEO and president of now-bankrupt Murray Energy.

I founded the company and created 8,000 jobs there until the move to end coal use. I am still chairman of the board, he wrote on a Labor Department obtained by the Ohio Valley ReSource.

Were in bankruptcy, and due to my health could not handle the president and CEO job any longer.

Mr Murrays claim will now be evaluated by the department to work out who is responsible for paying out benefits.

He states in his claim that he worked underground almost his entire career.

He declined to speak to media outlets but confirmed he had black lung and was entitled to the benefits.

During my 63 years working in underground coal mines, I worked 16 years every day at the mining face underground and went underground every week until I was age 75, Mr Murray wrote in the claim.

His companies reportedly have a long history of fighting claims made by miners for black lung benefits.

Black lung is a fatal lung disease caused by exposure to coal and rock dust.

In 2014, Murray Energy led a lawsuit against the Obama administration over a federal rule that strengthened control of coal dust in mines.

Mr Murrays failed lawsuit claimed the rules were unachievable and would have cost the industry billions of dollars.

He is a big supporter of Donald Trump and has helped form the presidents energy policy, according to ABC News.

Its ironic that Murrays company fought hard to block the 2014 respirable coal dust rule we put in place to prevent the black lung disease, said Joe Main, who served as assistant secretary of the Mine Safety and Health Administration under Mr Obama.

Story continues

Lawyers have accused coal companies and insurance companies of dragging out cases and many remain unsettled when the miner dies.

Mr Murray reportedly listed wife Brenda as his dependent and she would receive the benefits for the rest of her life.

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Queensland wants New South Wales to record 28 days of zero community transmission cases, where authorities are unable to link the new case to a known source, before it will consider reopening the border dividing the states.

Community transmission figures for NSW remained largely stable in the two months before Queensland announced in June it would reopen its borders on July 10.

NSW says it may never reach the threshold set by Queensland to reopen its borders, with Premier Gladys Berejiklian warning that 28 days of no community transmission is not feasible. Credit:Getty Images, Brook Mitchell

NSW was on track to reach the target on October 6, but with a new case last week and authorities unable to make a quick, definitive link to a known infection, the border clock was reset to zero.

Queensland Chief Health Officer Jeannette Young said cases must be linked to another infection within 48 hours or she would treat them as community transmission.
Wrexham starts local lockdown measures as cases per 100k figure rises to 59.6

This article is old - Published: Thursday, Oct 1st, 2020

Wrexham has 59.6 cases per 100,000 in the latest statistics released by Public Health Wales as the county borough area enter a local lockdown as of 6pm.

Todays figures cover the seven day rolling period up to the 28th of September, and show 59.6 cases per 100,000 people with a positivity rate of tests of 4.9%. On Tuesday that figure was 33.1 per 100k, and yesterday 43.5 per 100k. (You can view the raw data here).

Wrexham now has the highest cases per 100k and highest positive proportion rate on the seven day figures out of all North Wales counties  a position vastly different from figures a week ago.

On the day on day figures Wrexham has seen +25 new cases, and a positive proportion rate of 8.6% for tests. That is the highest reported cases per day since June 25th. On Monday +5 cases were reported by Public Health Wales, however in the raw data today that figure is now +20.

New images have been released by Wrexham Council (copied above and below) as of 6pm explaining the alert for Wrexham. The local health board have also published a graphic on their local lockdown page.

Wrexham Council said tonight, We are not just talking about numbers on a chart. These figures represent real people in our community, and sadly theres a chance that some of them might become very ill.

This underlines why introducing extra local restrictions in Wrexham from 6pm tonight is the right thing to do.

Welsh Government have published a Q&A on what the restrictions mean for the area on their site, entitled Wrexham County Borough lockdown: frequently asked questions, with the main points being:

People will not be allowed to enter or leave the Wrexham County Borough Council area without a reasonable excuse

People will no longer be able to form, or be in, an extended household (sometimes called a bubble)

This means meeting indoors with anyone who is not part of your household (people you live with) is not allowed at the moment, unless you have a good reason, such as providing care to a vulnerable person

All licensed premises have to stop serving alcohol at 10pm

People must work from home wherever possible

Shops, restaurants, pubs and cinemas will remain open. However under the measures you would not be able to visit them with anyone outside of your household.

Yesterday we spoke with Health Minister Vaughan Gething and North Wales Minister Ken Skates. They detailed the decision making process around the lockdown, why it was different from Rowan Foods and the Hospital outbreaks, what has changed in Wrexham in such a short time, the review periods, and how we emerge from the measures  read their responses here.

Wrexhams MS Lesley Griffiths has said today, Before making this difficult decision, Wales First Minister, Health Minister and the Minister for North Wales met with local authority leaders, the police, the NHS and public health experts to discuss the rise in coronavirus in parts of North Wales.

Throughout this pandemic, the Welsh Government has adopted a cautious approach and the health and wellbeing of the public has always been its primary concern. People will be aware in recent weeks local restrictions have been introduced in many areas in South Wales. After studying the latest data, a similar pattern of transmission can be seen across most of North Wales. Sadly, the virus is spreading within the communities and cases are expected to rise in the days ahead. The Welsh Government has learnt from these comparable incidents and has intervened early to avoid additional harm and to prevent further escalation.

I recognise the announcement may have come as a shock to local residents. I understand it may be disruptive and an inconvenience to many but people must follow the new rules as they are ultimately in place to protect your health, the health of your loved ones and the local community.

Many constituents have contacted me highlighting the issue that English residents are currently allowed to travel into Wales but people in many Welsh counties are being told to stay in their locality The Welsh Government has no control over the English regulations. Its up the Prime Minister to tell people in England not to travel to Wales and the First Minister, Mark Drakeford has written to the PM requesting he advises people not to travel from restricted areas of England, as we have done here in Wales. To date, no response has been received.

Council Leader Mark Pritchard said tonight The upward trend is stark, and the figures  which are based on a rolling seven-day period  once again show that Wrexham has done the right thing by acting quickly and introducing extra restrictions along with Flintshire, Denbighshire and Conwy.

Many people are frustrated about the extra measures that come into force tonight, and I completely understand that. The world is in a pretty difficult place at the momentwere all tired and we all want life to go back to normal.

But the data and the science show that extra restrictions are needed if we want to bring the virus under control again in Wrexham. We dont have a choice.

So once again, Im urging each and every one of us to know the rules and to stick to them.

More than that, Im asking everyone to do the right thing, and do everything they can to prevent the spread of the virus.

Its about doing our best to protect other people including the people we love.

Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Nigel Harrison from North Wales Police said: We completely understand that the news of these latest restrictions is hugely disheartening for many of us; but its really important that we all play our part by adhering to the new measures to help control and prevent further spread of the virus and keep all of our loved ones safe.

The message from North Wales Police today is clear. People need to take these new restrictions seriously; because if they dont there is every possibility that we will see further restrictions. We want everyone to work together so that we can get through this, follow the guidance and protect the public  this will prevent us from having to take action.

We are working hard to keep you safe from coronavirus and from crime. Weve also seen a return to normal in crime levels since the easing of lockdown measures were announced, and now the demand has reached even greater levels due to blatant breaches of COVID legislation. We need people to recognise that wilfully flouting the guidance places unnecessary strain on already stretched resources, and ultimately endangers those people who may need the Emergency Services in their hour of need.

However, we will not stand-by and allow blatant breaches of the legislation to happen across our communities. We will of course engage with the public and explain the new legislation, and encourage people to take personal responsibility for their own safety and that of others. If, however, people continue to flout the regulations, demonstrate a blatant disregard for the health warnings and put significant strain on already stretched resources, we will take action.

Dr Robin Howe, Incident Director for the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak response at Public Health Wales, said: Public Health Wales supports the introduction of new coronavirus restrictions in four local authority areas in North Wales Denbighshire, Flintshire, Conwy and Wrexham following a rise in cases.

The new measures will come into force at 6pm on Thursday 1 October, to protect peoples health and control the spread of the virus in the four areas.

These arrangements are necessary in order to bring transmission of the virus under control in these areas. It is very important that we abide by the regulations in the areas in which we live and that we do not travel between local authority areas without a reasonable excuse.

We thank the public in advance for sticking to these new restrictions, which are essential in reducing spread of the virus, protecting older and vulnerable people, and keeping Wales safe.

Following the introduction of restrictions in the borough of Caerphilly, our data is beginning to show a downward trend, and although we cannot categorically say this trend is a result of lockdown, we are cautiously optimistic and we are looking at a number of alternative sources to validate these results.

The local lockdown will be reviewed in 14 days, and then on a regular basis, at least every seven days thereafter.
Fire damage at the rear of a house on Rowlagh Park in Clondalkin. Picture Credit:Frank McGrath 1/10/20

Gardai are investigating if there is a possible link between two separate arson attacks on houses in the Crumlin and Ronanstown areas of Dublin late last night.

One attack was on Kildare Road in Dublin 12, and the other was at a house in the Rowlagh area of Dublin 22.

At around 11.50pm two men were seen by witnesses on the flat roof of an extension to a house on Kildare Road at the junction with Windmill Road, and a fire starting as they fled.

Expand Close Damage at the scene of a house fire on Kildare road in Crumlin. Picture Credit:Frank McGrath 1/10/20 / Facebook

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Whatsapp Damage at the scene of a house fire on Kildare road in Crumlin. Picture Credit:Frank McGrath 1/10/20

Around 20 minutes later at 12.10am two men were observed by witnesses on the roof of a house at Rowlagh Park 8km away from Kildare Road.

It is suspected they interfered with a skylight and the fire started as they fled.

Both scenes have been preserved and a forensic examination was due to take place by members of the garda technical bureau today.

There were no reports of injuries in either of the fires.

The house in Crumlin that was targeted was previously boarded up and was vacant at the time of the fire.

More to follow...
New York City has fewer than half a dozen contact tracers who speak Yiddish, according to a New York Post report, which has raised some concerns as COVID-19 infections have begun to rise in neighborhoods occupied by members of the citys Ultra-Orthodox Jewish community. Its really a problem. It reflects a failure to adapt to the cultural needs, the linguistic needs of this community, New York City Council Member Mark Levine said during a City Council oversight hearing on Wednesday.

Following the hearing, the health officials said the city is currently looking to hire 21 people who speak Yiddish, Russian and Hebrew to improve outreach in neighborhoods seeing coronavirus spikes in Queens and Brooklyn.

However, the current lack of contact tracers who speak those specific languages may reflect a lack of cultural awareness on the citys part. Experts also point to other impediments to hiring tracers from diverse communities, such as restrictive job qualifications that may exclude members of some communities throughout the city. There is also the possibility of confusion caused by the citys Health Department and public hospital systems joint effort running its test and trace program.

New York Citys contact tracing positions have extensive educational and experiential qualifications, including some college training and experience working in the public health field. New York Lawyers for the Public Interest legal director, Hayley Gorenberg, tells City & State that these prerequisites are keeping members of communities most affected by COVID-19 from helping the city. The core, the key, the grail to contact tracing is being able to build trust and rapport so that people will turn over sensitive information in a scary situation for them, Gorenberg said. So we need to have people from the communities that are most directly affected to be able to have communication (with contact tracers) and have it be successful and make a program like this work the way it needs to work.

Gorenberg also pointed out that the World Health Organization states in its contact tracing guidance that tracers do not need to have high levels of education in order to be successful. She also questioned why the citys goal was only to have half of its contact tracers come from the communities most affected by the coronavirus, instead of more than half. I understand that it's better than less than half but I don't understand why the goal wasnt close to all, she said. Isn't that the metric that's needed here?

The Test & Trace Corps, which manages the citys contact tracing program, told City & State in an emailed statement that it is proud of the work its 3,600 tracers  over 50% of whom are from zip codes that have been impacted by COVID-19  have done thus far and stands by its job requirements. We wanted tracers with public health backgrounds (degree and/or experience) and those who are representational of and committed to the communities we serve, reads the statement. These things are essential to the role: Employing people from the neighborhoods most affected by Covid-19 with public health experience allows frontline tracers to build empathy and trust quickly.

The hiring of more community members could also help the city become more culturally adept when it comes to engaging with different segments of its vast Jewish population. For example, ultra-Orthodox communities in Brooklyn and Queens, including members of Hasidic sects, are often referred to by Gov. Andrew Cuomo and New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio as the Orthodox Jewish community or even just the Jewish community, which may indicate that the government is not aware of all the various cultural, religious and linguistic practices of different Jewish populations. (It may also be, in part, because ultra-Orthodox Jews often prefer to identify simply as Orthodox or Jewish, without making the distinction between their practices and those of more liberal, assimilated strains of Judaism such as the Modern Orthodox, Conservative and Reform Jewish movements.) The mayor faced scrutiny in April, when he referred repeatedly to the Jewish community after a group of Satmar Hasidim crowded a funeral procession in Williamsburg, leading to accusations that de Blasio was scapegoating Jews.

De Blasio and Cuomo have both said they are meeting with religious community leaders to address the current outbreaks. Additionally, elected officials who hail from the affected communities, including state Sen. Simcha Felder, Assembly Members Simcha Eichenstein and Daniel Rosenthal, and Council Members Chaim Deutsch and Kalman Yeger, also penned a letter asking their constituents to social distance and wear masks to avoid further contamination.

However, the mayors once-close relationship with the citys Hasidic communities may not outweigh the influence of President Donald Trump, who spreads misinformation and skepticism about wearing a mask, and whom Hasidim  in stark contrast to most of the Jewish electorate  largely supports.

Contact tracing efforts also have been affected by de Blasios decision to have the NYC Health + Hospitals run the citys test and trace program, as opposed to the Department of Health. Having both departments working together has slowed down the citys ability to come up with clear messaging quickly, according to Gorenberg. I think everybody is, as far as I know, very well intentioned and there are committed people, including community leaders, who will acknowledge missteps and try to improve things. So I have all respect for that, Gorenberg said. It's, nonetheless, very confusing to have both groups meeting and trying to work on this crisis.


SPRINGFIELD  A number of gatherings across the city, several travelers coming back from Florida and residents not wearing masks when entering businesses have been the main reasons for a rise in COVID-19 cases in the past week, the citys top health official said Thursday.

During a press conference at City Hall, Commissioner of Health and Human Services Helen Caulton-Harris and Mayor Domenic J. Sarno urged residents to wear masks, wash their hands and maintain social distancing in order to get the city out of the states red category and back into the green.

Unfortunately even with everything we are doing we have slipped back into the red category, just barely, but we are, Sarno said. The commissioner and I were just discussing how outstanding it was that a midsized urban center in America was in the green and we took a lot of pride in that. Maybe, not on purpose, we sent people the message that we are getting through this and people thought, we are all set, we can do what we want.

Data released Wednesday by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health put Springfield in the states red or highest risk category for spread of the virus. The state bases its designations on the number of average new cases per day, per 100,000 residents, over a 14-day period.

Springfields rate of 4.3 daily cases per 100,000 residents on Sept. 23 climbed to 8.3 daily cases on Sept. 30.

The city has recorded a total of 3,532 COVID-19 cases since the outbreak began, with over 180 new cases in the last two weeks, according to the state.

Baystate Health officials said Thursday that 12 COVID-19 patients are under care at Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, with one in a critical care unit.

Caulton-Harris said contact tracing has made it possible to identify what zip codes and even what street addresses are causing the current spike.

The numbers are rising across the Commonwealth and it certainly has to do with individuals having gatherings and not using precautions, she said. We know from some limited contact tracing that has been done, there were some individuals who came from Florida to Springfield and we found a substantial number of positive cases in that home, but also in neighborhood homes that the individuals visited.

The biggest uptick in cases since Monday have been in the 01109 zip code with 13 new cases, the 01108 zip code with 10 new cases and 01104 with 7 new cases.

On Monday we had 124 cases. In the last three days we have added 51 new cases with 26 of those being identified yesterday, she said.

She credited the 01107 zip code in the citys North End, previously a high-risk area, with reducing the numbers to just three cases between Sept. 28 and Oct. 1.

Im giving you zip codes because if you live in that zip code, if your family is in that zip code or you visit that zip code you need to practice social distancing, wear your masks or stay home, she said. COVID-19 kills, but even if you get sick and recover there can be long lasting chronic disease affects. We care about your health, please do what we ask. We are asking because we want a measurably healthy Springfield."

Sarno said the new high-risk designation means that Springfield businesses and organizations must remain in Phase 3 Step 1 of the states reopening plan.

According to state guidelines, Phase 3 Step 2 would allow indoor performance venues to open with 50% capacity with a maximum of 250 people; outdoor performance venue capacity would increase to 50% with a max of 250 people, for arcades and indoor and outdoor recreation businesses trampolines, obstacle courses, roller rinks and laser tag would also be permitted to open and capacity would increase to 50%. The step would also allow for fitting rooms to open and gyms and museums could increase capacity to 50%.

You must stay in Phase 3 Step 1 until we continue to work our way back down to yellow and green. As soon as we know the situation down, which we will, we can move to that phase, he said.

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LOS ANGELESDuring the run-up to its vote on repeal of net neutrality rules in 2017, the Federal Communications Commission, as required, opened the issue to public comments on its website. The site was flooded with more than 20 million comments from the public, a record, many supporting the repeal.

There was only one problem. At least 2 million of those comments were fake.

Ever since, the FCC has resisted demands to hand over the internet metadata on those fake comments  data that would help reveal where the phony comments originated, and from whom. In May, a federal judge ordered the FCC to hand that data over to journalists at The New York Times.

The FCC quickly appealed, refusing to turn over the data. But this week, the commission dropped that appeal, and must now hand over the metadata files to the Times, according to a report by Digital News Daily.

Many came from fake accounts, sometimes stealing the identities of actual people, both living and deceased  including two United States senators who later demanded that the FCC explain how their names turned up on bogus net neutrality comments.

But at least 500,000 of the fake comments  as FCC Chair Ajit Pai eventually admitted  originated in Russia. Another 1.5 million originated with a single political consultant who was a lobbyist for the broadband industry  an industry which largely favored net neutrality repeal.

But the New York Times has said that it intends to dig deeper, examining data that would reveal user IP addresses, time stamps, and headers that could allow the comments to be traced back to specific individuals. When the FCC refused to hand over that data, the venerable newspaper filed a lawsuit under the Freedom of Information Act.

In resisting the courts ruling in May, the FCC said that turning over the data would violate the privacy of users. But the commission did not comment on why it changed its collective mind and dropped the appeal.

If genuine public comment is drowned out by a fraudulent facsimile, then the notice-and-comment process has failed, Souther District of New York Judge Lorna Schofield wrote in her May ruling. Disclosing the requested data in this case informs the public understanding of the operations and activities of government in two ways -- at the micro level with regard to the integrity of the FCCs repeal of the particular net neutrality rules at issue, and at the macro level with regard to the vulnerability of agency rulemaking in general.

Schofield was appointed to the bench on 2012 by President Barack Obama.

A spokesperson for The Times told Digital News Daily that the news organization was pleased by the FCCs decision.

We believe the data will assist our reporters in their continuing investigation into how the public comment process at the FCC was corrupted by bad actors, the Times spokesperson said.

Photo By Ajay Suresh / Wikimedia Commons
Police officers stand guard in front of a closed clothing store in Causeway Bay during a protest on China's National Day, - Jayne Russell/AFP

At least 87 people were arrested in Hong Kong during angry confrontations between small groups of pro-democracy protesters and droves of riot police on Chinas National Day holiday.

The Chinese-ruled city had been bracing for chaos after a proposed march by one of the largest anti-government groups, the Civil Human Rights Front, was denied permission. Last years National Day marked one of the most violent moments of the civil unrest that roiled the city for months when the police opened fire with a live round for the first time.

This year at least 6,000 police officers outnumbered a few hundred protesters. The pandemic and a draconian national security law introduced in June, which can impose life sentences for subversion, have had a chilling effect on the protest movement that brought millions to the streets last summer to demand free and fair elections and greater civil rights.

However, despite the dwindling numbers the crowd was still defiant and seething in central Hong Kongs major shopping district as the riot police pulled pedestrians aside and searched their bags trying to identify pro-democracy supporters.

Im in my 50s but I cant see any hope for Hong Kongs future. I feel pity for the next generation, said one 51-year-old protester who identified himself as Mr Cheng.

He had been holding a yellow balloon when he was ensnared inside a police cordon.

Pro-China supporters display People's Republic of China flags to mark China's National Day in Hong Kong - Billy H.C. Kwok /Getty Images AsiaPac

Yellow is the colour representing Hong Kongs fight for democracy. This yellow balloon is a symbol of peoples continued effort in safeguarding Hong Kong, preventing it from changing into a mainland city that loses humanity and freedom. Even walking on the streets alone can attract police officers. When did this become a crime? Hong Kong under a cloud of fear thanks to the tyranny, he added.

Protesters, who wanted to show support for 12 Hong Kong citizens detained in China after trying to escape to Taiwan by sea, moved swiftly and fluidly to evade arrest. But at times they broke into spontaneous protest chants or shouted taunts at the police, prompting riot officers to charge into the crowd.

Story continues

Some forms of protest were more subtle. Creative demonstrators left a Bluetooth speaker on a street corner playing an unofficial protest anthem - now banned under the new law - before it was removed by officers.

Four district councillors were reportedly among those arrested, on charges of unauthorised assembly. The police said many were held on suspicion of participating in an unauthorised assembly, while some were accused of possessing offensive weapons. They said they were looking for two men who threw petrol bombs to bloc traffic in another area of the city.

Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam hailed the citys return to peace at China national day celebrations.

Over the past few months, an indisputable fact in front of everyone is that our society has returned to peace, Ms Lam said.
Area animal shelters showered with funds in memory of Betty White

The online fundraiser challenged fans of actress Betty White to donate to a local animal rescue or shelter in honor of her Jan. 17 birthday.
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has asked residents of Ashaiman to renew the mandate of President Akufo-Addo.

He noted that Ghanaians have had an opportunity to witness at first hand the impact of the policies and programmes implemented by his Government.

The Vice President stated this when he addressed residents of Ashaiman on Thursday as part of his four-day campaign tour of the Greater Accra Region.

He also urged residents to vote for NPP parliamentary candidates, so as to deliver another decisive victory.

---KingdomfmOnline
National Crime Record Bureaus Crime in India 2019 report stated that crimes against women rose by 7.3 percent as compared to 2018. The state also had the highest number of crimes against girl children, the most dowry cases and the second highest number of rapes against Dalit women.

Even as the country seethes in anger over the death of the Hathras gangrape victim, reports surfaced about the death of another victim in Uttar Pradeshs Balrampur. The Dalit woman was allegedly drugged, gangraped and her body was mutilated. An eight-year-old was raped in Azamgarh while a 14-year-old girl was raped by her neighbour in Bulandshahr. Among the spate of chilling crimes against women in Uttar Pradesh over the last month are the cases involving a 13-year-old girl in Lakhimpur Kheri and a 70-year-old woman in Ballia.

While Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ordered the formation of a three-member SIT to probe the Hathras case and directed for a trial in a fast-track court, the incident comes only a few weeks after the chief minister launched Mission Durachari, which orders officials to name and shame harassers by putting up their posters in public. Operation Shakti was also conducted in Unnao, Hardoi, Sitapur, Lakhimpur, Rae Bareli and Lucknow Rural, which led to initiation of action against 2,200 people in a month.

The rise in crimes against women is also reflected in the National Crime Record Bureaus Crime in India 2019 report, according to which the figure rose by 7.3 percent as compared to 2018, with the highest numbers (14.7 percent of total cases) reported from Uttar Pradesh. The state also had the highest number of crimes against girl children under the POCSO Act, the most dowry cases and the second-highest number of rapes against Dalit women.

The dismal state of womens safety, however, was prevalent even in 2012, when Akhilesh Yadavs Samajwadi Party defeated the ruling Bahujan Samaj Party and came to power. As per a report that states NCRB figures, the number of rape cases registered daily were 68 in 2012, which increased to 92 in 2013, 100 in 2014 and 106 in 2016.

By 2014, as many as 38,467 crimes against women were registered in UP, which amounts to one every 15 minutes, IndiaSpend reported. Cases of crime against women increased by 61 percent between 2010-11 and 2014-15, with a 43 percent increase in rape cases and 21 percent increase in cases of kidnapping and abduction of girls in 2013-14 compared to the previous year, a Comptroller Auditor General report tabled in the state Assembly stated. 59 percent of the rape survivors were minors, the report further said.

It added that the Uttar Pradesh police was short of manpower (55 percent), with only 4.6 percent of the total force comprising women, a figure in stark contrast to the 2009 Home Ministry recommendation of 33 percent.

On 23 August, 2016, Yadav had informed the Assembly that 1,012 rape cases and 4,520 cases of harassment of women were reported in Uttar Pradesh between 15 March and 18 August. The information was revealed less than a month after a woman and her minor daughter were gang-raped on the Bulandshahr highway.

In 2017, Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest number of crimes against women, with 56,011 cases. The state constituted 15.6 percent of all crimes against women in India. Of the 3.4 lakh crimes against women reported in the country, 56,000 came from Uttar Pradesh. This is 6,749 cases more than the number reported in 2016, and 20,103 more than those reported in 2015. Lucknow and Kanpur came second only to Patna in reporting dowry deaths.

The state capital was second to Delhi in the number of assaults with intent to outrage modesty of women. Of the four metros that reported the most cases for kidnapping and abduction with intent to force for marriage, three (Kanpur, Ghaziabad and Lucknow) were in Uttar Pradesh.

Data released by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) for 2018 pegged Uttar Pradesh as the most unsafe for women, registering 59,445 cases of crime against women. Lucknow registered the highest number of cases of harassment of women in public transport, compared to other cities.

In June this year, a woman travelling from Pratapgarh to Noida with her two children was raped in a moving bus. As the lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus began, data compiled by the National Commission for Women showed a 121 percent rise in online complaints of domestic violence, the most coming from Uttar Pradesh.

Such has been the travesty of justice in Uttar Pradesh that women raped during the 2013 Muzaffarnagar riots awaited justice awaited justice till years later, with only seven of the victims being able to muster the courage to file the FIR, but facing legal and bureaucratic delays and intimidation. They threatened me, said we will hurt your son. I was scared and I changed my statement and said nothing happened. I did not inform anyone but when others found out they encouraged me to stick to the truth, one of the seven survivors told Al Jazeera in 2016.

Muzaffarnagar riots were the first instance in which the Criminal Law Amendment Act of 2013 introduced Section 376(2)(g) to the Indian Penal Code, which deals with the offence of rape committed during communal or sectarian violence was adopted. When the Supreme Court ruled in 2013 that the survivors would be given compensation, security and other support, the state had on it the onus to set a precedent regarding the implementation of this amendment. It failed as the FIR did not mention the amendment to charge the accused. Moreover, the intimidation continued, not just at the hands of the accused, but also an investigation officer in the case who was dismissed from duty in 2014.

While the hurried, overnight cremation of the Hathras victim lays bare the caste divide that comes into play in dealing with crimes against women, several cases have also seen the involvement of political and public figures, making delivery of justice an uphill task. Former union minister Chinmayanand was accused of raping a Saharanpur law student, with the latter being charged with extortion later. In February this year, he walked out of the Shahjahanpur district jail after being granted bail by the Allahabad High Court.

An FIR was lodged against suspended BJP MLA Kuldeep Sengar only in 2018, after the woman he had raped in 2017 attempted suicide near the chief ministers residence. He was sentenced to life in prison in 2019. The survivors father and aunts died under questionable circumstances while the investigation in the case was on.

Yogi Adityanath, who assumed his chief ministership with the promise of making the state safer for women and was credited with bringing in anti-Romeo squads, has taken various steps in an attempt to add credibility to his commitment to womens security and welfare. Full page advertisements were taken out in newspapers in 2018 listing 26 "state government policies and programmes for the welfare of women" in force.

Even though the anti-Romeo squads registered six cases daily on an average and implicated 3,003 people over a nine-month period, news reports claimed they vanished in some parts of Uttar Pradesh within a month after the launch of the programme. Activists, however, said the squads should be disbanded because their heavy-handed tactics and moral policing left people insecure and fearful.

A Women and Child Safety Organisation has also been set up to ensure speedy disposal of criminal cases against women and children besides taking care of their safety. The special unit will look after all existing helplines and organisations dealing with control of crime against women and children, a report published in August said. This will include regular monitoring of anti-Romeo squads and that of the women helpline and facilities such as 1090 women powerline, Mahila Samman Prakosht and Mahila Suraksha Prakosht will be merged for better monitoring.

However, the existing women helpline 181 has met a sad fate, with its employees claiming non-payment of salaries since July 2019. The helpline service was temporarily discontinued in June this year. Letter to authorities went unanswered, claimed a report in The Print.

Moreover, questions on the gender representation in the Uttar Pradesh Police were raised after The India Justice Report by Tata Trusts released in November 2019 said it will take the state 63 years to reach the 33 percent representation of women in the force.
LUCKNOW, India - Indian police detained key leaders of the opposition Congress party, Rahul Gandhi and his sister Priyanka Gandhi, on Thursday after preventing them from visiting a northern village where a 19-year-old woman from Indias lowest caste was allegedly gang raped last month and later died in a hospital.

The attack was the latest brutal sexual violence against women to rile India. It triggered street protests in several parts of the country this week.

Police officer Manoj Dixit said the two party leaders were detained for violating an order banning the assembly of four or more people in the area to prevent any violence by protesters.

Police stopped their convoy on a highway on the way to the village, where the party leaders planned to meet with the womans family. They got out of their car and started walking to the village, but were blocked again by the police.

Dozens of Congress party workers scuffled with the police, who used sticks to disperse them. Some party workers were injured, and Rahul Gandhi slipped to the ground in the melee before he was taken away by police, video on television news channels showed.

The two leaders were driven back to New Delhi by police and freed later Thursday.

Also Thursday, several dozen students held protests in the Indian capital and in the southern Indian city of Hyderbad demanding protection for women.

On the campus of Delhi University, students burned an effigy of Yogi Adityanath, the top elected official of Uttar Pradesh state, before being taken away by police. The protest in Hydrabad was organized by the Students Federation of India.

The victim, who belonged to the Dalit community, was allegedly raped by four men on Sept. 14 in Hathras district. The womans family told local media that they found her naked, bleeding and paralyzed with a split tongue and a broken spine in a field outside their home, and that she had identified her assailants. She died two weeks later, on Tuesday, after battling serious injuries in a hospital in New Delhi.

A police officer, Prakash Kumar, said the woman was attacked while working on a farm and there were injuries to her genitals.

Police said four men, all from an upper caste, have been arrested.

Dalits  formerly known as untouchables and at the bottom of Indias unforgiving Hindu caste hierarchy  are victims of thousands of attacks each year. According to human rights organizations, Dalit women are particularly vulnerable to caste-based discrimination and sexual violence.

In India, rape and sexual violence have been under the spotlight since the 2012 gang rape and killing of a 23-year-old student on a New Delhi bus. The attack galvanized massive protests and inspired lawmakers to order the creation of fast-track courts dedicated to rape cases and stiffen penalties for those convicted of the crime.

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HOUSTON, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Callon Petroleum Company ("Callon" or the "Company") (NYSE: CPE) today announced additional initiatives to enhance liquidity, consistent with the Company's commitment to proactively addressing its capital structure. The transactions announced today immediately strengthen Callon's balance sheet and enhance near-term liquidity, well ahead of debt maturities and with the support of key financial stakeholders.

The Company has entered into an overriding royalty interest ("ORRI") transaction with a private investment vehicle managed by Kimmeridge Energy ("Kimmeridge"), an energy-focused private equity firm, that generated gross cash proceeds of $140 million dollars. Callon has also issued $300 million of principal value second lien secured notes ("2nd Lien Notes") to Kimmeridge. The proceeds of the Kimmeridge transactions will be used to reduce borrowings on the Company's credit facility by nearly a third to approximately $1 billion. Separately, Callon recently entered into a definitive agreement to sell substantially all of its non-operated assets for gross cash proceeds of $30 million.

The Company has completed the fall borrowing base redetermination for its senior secured credit facility resulting in a reaffirmation of Callon's borrowing base at $1.7 billion. The borrowing base and elected commitment were subsequently reduced to $1.6 billion in consideration of the ORRI sale and total 2nd Lien Notes capacity.

President and CEO Joe Gatto commented, "These transactions represent an important step forward in delivering on our stated goals to improve Callon's liquidity position. Absolute debt reduction is also accelerated, complementing our free cash flow generation that has been bolstered by the significant synergies realized from the Carrizo acquisition. Importantly, the asset monetizations are accretive to our 2021 leverage metrics given a blended transaction multiple of approximately 6.5 times projected operating cash flow at current strip pricing. We will continue to pursue initiatives that improve our financial position and are encouraged by the expanding spectrum of actionable alternatives that have emerged as we execute on our strategic plan as a scaled operator in premier operating areas."

Highlights of the combined transactions:

Total gross cash proceeds of approximately $465 million after original issue discount

after original issue discount Estimated pro forma liquidity of $600 million after transaction expenses, with the next regularly scheduled borrowing base redetermination in spring 2021

after transaction expenses, with the next regularly scheduled borrowing base redetermination in spring 2021 Flexibility to issue up to a total of $700 million of 2 nd Lien Notes under the indenture, including, $300 million notes issued to Kimmeridge, $300 million reserved for potential exchanges of unsecured notes and up to an additional $100 million that may be issued to Kimmeridge under certain conditions and at its election

of 2 Lien Notes under the indenture, including, notes issued to Kimmeridge, reserved for potential exchanges of unsecured notes and up to an additional $100 million that may be issued to Kimmeridge under certain conditions and at its election Significant financial position improvements from the monetization of approximately 3.5% of current daily production with a resulting average net revenue interest (8/8ths basis) of over 74% for both our existing producing wells, as well as our undeveloped location inventory

2nd Lien Notes overview:

Private placement of $300 million in principal due 2025, issued at 98% of par and callable beginning in two years from the issuance date

in principal due 2025, issued at 98% of par and callable beginning in two years from the issuance date Cash coupon of 9.00%, payable semi-annually

Concurrent issuance of approximately 7.27 million warrants at a strike price equal to the 20-day volume weighted average stock price prior to the closing date to be settled on a net share basis above the strike price if exercised (i.e., no additional common shares issued unless warrants exercised above the strike price with the number of shares issued calculated according to the warrant agreement)

No maintenance-based financial covenants

ORRI overview:

$140 million of gross cash proceeds received at closing

of gross cash proceeds received at closing 2.0% (on an 8/8 ths basis) overriding royalty interest, proportionately reduced to Callon's net revenue interest, in substantially all Callon-operated oil and gas leaseholds with an effective date of October 1, 2020



basis) overriding royalty interest, proportionately reduced to Callon's net revenue interest, in substantially all Callon-operated oil and gas leaseholds with an effective date of ORRI burdened by ad valorem and severance taxes and post-production costs, including gathering, handling, processing, separating, treating, compression, dehydrating, transportation, and marketing costs

Non-operated working interest overview:

Estimated $30 million of gross cash proceeds receivable upon an anticipated closing date in early November

of gross cash proceeds receivable upon an anticipated closing date in early November Current daily production of approximately 1,600 barrels of oil equivalent (55% oil)

Advisors

Jefferies LLC acted as financial advisor to Callon for the issuance of the 2nd Lien Notes and for the ORRI transaction. RBC Capital Markets acted as lead financial advisor for the ORRI transaction. Kirkland & Ellis LLP acted as legal advisor to Callon for the issuance of the 2nd Lien Notes and for the ORRI transaction. TenOaks Energy Advisors acted as sell-side advisor for the non-operated working interest sale.

Barclays acted as exclusive financial advisor and Sidley Austin LLP acted as legal advisor to Kimmeridge.

Callon Petroleum Company

Callon Petroleum Company is an independent oil and natural gas company focused on the acquisition, exploration, and development of high-quality assets in the leading oil plays of West and South Texas.

Kimmeridge

Founded in 2012, Kimmeridge is a private equity firm based in New York and Denver focused purely on the development of low-cost unconventional oil and gas assets in the US upstream energy sector. The firm is differentiated by its direct investment approach, deep technical knowledge, active portfolio management and proprietary research and data gathering.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news 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 include future levels of drilling activity and associated production and cash flow expectations; the Company's production guidance and capital expenditure forecast; anticipated returns and financial position; and the implementation of the Company's business plans and strategy, as well as statements including the words "believe," "expect," "may," "will," "forecast," "outlook," "plans" and words of similar meaning. These statements reflect the Company's current views with respect to future events and financial performance based on management's experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, anticipated future developments and other factors believed to be appropriate. No assurances can be given, however, as of this date, that these events will occur or that these projections will be achieved, and actual results could differ materially from those projected as a result of certain factors. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of which such statement is made and the Company undertakes no obligation to correct or update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. Some of the factors which could affect our future results and could cause results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include the volatility of oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids ("NGLs") prices or a prolonged period of low oil, natural gas or NGLs prices and the effects of actions by, or disputes among or between, members of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, such as Saudi Arabia and other oil and natural gas producing countries, such as Russia, with respect to production levels or other matters related to the price of oil, general economic conditions, including the availability of credit and access to existing lines of credit, the effects of excess supply of oil and natural gas resulting from reduced demand caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the actions of certain oil and natural gas producing countries, our ability to drill and complete wells, operational, regulatory and environment risks, cost and availability of equipment and labor, our ability to finance our activities, the ultimate timing, outcome and results of integrating the operations of Carrizo and Callon and the ability of the combined company to realize anticipated synergies and other benefits in the timeframe expected or at all, and other risks more fully discussed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), including our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, available on our website or the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.

Contact:

Mark Brewer

Director of Investor Relations

Callon Petroleum Company

[email protected]

(281) 589-5200

SOURCE Callon Petroleum Company

Related Links

www.callon.com


The Slovak counterintelligence service claims that employees of the Russian special services operating in Slovakia under diplomatic cover have tried to infiltrate the state bodies of the republic by establishing relations with civil servants

PRAGUE (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 01st October, 2020) The Slovak counterintelligence service claims that employees of the Russian special services operating in Slovakia under diplomatic cover have tried to infiltrate the state bodies of the republic by establishing relations with civil servants.

Earlier in the day, the Slovak Information Service (SIS), the country's counterintelligence agency, published an open part of its 2019 annual report.

"The activities of the Russian special services are directed against the interests of Slovakia as a member of the European Union and NATO. Employees of these special services operating in the territory of Slovakia, mainly under diplomatic cover, sought to infiltrate the central bodies of state structures and the security system," the report read.

According to SIS, Russian intelligence officers regularly participated in events in the field of energy and security, while trying to establish close contacts with people who directly work with statesmen and have access to classified information on issues related to the EU and NATO.

The report also notes the activity of Chinese special services that were mainly interested in obtaining data related to information and telecommunication technologies.

Among other priorities of foreign intelligence services operating in Slovakia in 2019, SIS notes issues of arms control, cybersecurity, visits of Slovak leadership to Ukraine and the Balkan states, as well as the Slovak presidential election.
A Place for All Conservatives to Speak Their Mind.
A Cornish holiday resort has told of its frustration at being targeted by an Instagram booking scam that resulted in 7,500 in lost revenue.

Landal Gwel an Mor, a resort comprising luxury lodges near Redruth, revealed that the scam was run by a site called everything_half, listed as a 'UK independent travel broker offering luxury getaways at affordable prices'.

The fraudsters, it says, booked customers into its lodges, telling them that they would pay half the going rate, and only once they were happy with their accommodation. Everything_half then paid the price in full online to Landal Gwel an Mor  but using stolen credit cards.

Landal Gwel an Mor, a resort comprising luxury lodges near Redruth, revealed that it was scammed by an Instagram site - everything_half. The site has now been taken down

The owners of the stolen cards then complained that they were being billed for a holiday they never took and retrieved their money.

The holidaymakers, meanwhile, paid their money to everything_half. So Landal Gwel an Mor was left without a penny.

The resort told MailOnline Travel that it only became aware of the scam when it was contacted by its credit card merchant provider about a fraudulent transaction.

It said: 'On investigating the booking in detail, the telephone numbers associated with the booking were dead, but we eventually got hold of the guest who had stayed and he informed us he had booked the holiday via the everything-half Instagram site.'

Landal Gwel an Mor said other companies listed on the site included Hoseasons, Parkdean Resorts, Haven, Heart of the Lakes and Unique Homestays - and that it used polished publicity shots, so it looked legitimate.

Companies listed on everything_half included Hoseasons, Parkdean Resorts, Haven, Heart of the Lakes and Unique Homestays

Landal Gwel an Mor, pictured, only became aware of the scam when it was contacted by its credit card merchant provider about a fraudulent transaction

Matt Way, Resort Director of Landal Gwel an Mor, said: 'As soon as we became aware of this scam, we took measures to protect our customers and the business, making it our mission to warn the other holiday businesses listed on this site too, all well-established names in travel, spanning the country. We've resolved the issue at our resort now.

'This type of scam, at this time, was another blow to our industry - we are all trying to recover from being closed so losing revenue this way has a big impact on the businesses involved.'

Landal Gwel an Mor reported the scam to the police, Action Fraud and Instagram, which has now taken the site down.
This is the bizarre moment a 29-tonne load of carrots was dumped outside a London university as an art installation highlighting food wastage.

The carrots were tipped out by the Ben Pimlott Building at Goldsmiths College in New Cross, which is part of the University of London.

Video footage taken by student Matt Colquhoun shows the seemingly endless stream of carrots - and some potatoes - spilling out of the large truck while confused students watched on Tuesday.

The 29-tonne pile was later revealed as an art installation called Grounding, by Rafael Perez Evans ahead of Goldsmiths's MFA degree show, which will kick off on Friday.

The art project highlights the issues of food waste as all of the vegetables used were unwanted and would not have made it on to UK supermarket shelves.

Baffled students filmed as a truck dump 29 tonnes of carrots and potatoes outside the Ben Pimlott Building at Goldsmiths College in New Cross, which is part of the University of London

Despite a warning sign saying that the carrots are 'not for human consumption', many peckish students have taken some of them home to eat, as well as climbing on the installation to take photos.

The carrot mound will remain on the campus until the show closes next Tuesday, when the vegetables will be collected by the Spanish-Welsh artist and donated as animal feed.

Musical theatre student Eden Groualle, 20, described the installation as 'very bizarre'.

Others on Twitter said the carrot pile was a scene that could only be found at Goldsmiths, and others slammed the artwork as 'pretentious'.

One person joked: 'Putting carrots on the floor and calling it art is peek art pretentiousness. My rabbit would appreciate it tho.'

Another said: 'Something wonderfully haunting about seeing a bunch of Goldsmiths students wearing masks and looking at a massive mound of carrots.'

Some students said they felt torn about dumping such large quantities of edible food, despite the artist saying the vegetables were rejected by supermarkets.

Some students felt torn at the dumping of piles of edible food, with Josie Power (pictured), 20, saying she felt conflicted by the 'surreal' artwork

The vegetable pile is art installation called Grounding by Rafael Perez Evans, set up as a commentary on food waste. The artist said the carrots had not made it to supermarket shelves

History student Lester Langford, 20, from Warwickshire, said: 'Even though the carrots are being donated to farm animals at the end of the piece, it's still slightly problematic given the poverty, food shortages and homelessness in Lewisham.'

Josie Power, originally from Norwich, said she felt conflicted by the 'surreal' artwork.

The 20-year-old student, who studies performance, politics and society, said: 'It was something so fun and bizarre to go and see but also it's hard not to acknowledge the glaring problems with food wastage.'

She added: 'It's certainly an interesting way to gain attention for a social cause!'

According to the artist's website, the installation explores 'the tensions in visibility between the rural and the city', and was inspired by European farmers dumping produce as a form of protest.

'The therapeutic technique of grounding involves doing activities that "ground" or electrically reconnect you to the earth,' he added.
The surge in COVID-19 cases in Derry is expected to top the agenda at a meeting today of the Northern Ireland Executive.

As cases in the Derry City and Strabane District Council area continued to rise yesterday, the Health Minister Robin Swann said it was 'inevitable' that new restrictions would be introduced in the local region.

The latest figures from the Department of Health revealed yesterday that 487 positive COVID-19 cases have been reported in Derry and Strabane region in the last seven days.

This is a rate of 323 per 100,000 people  one of the highest rates of any area of the UK.

Mr Swann said if people dont 'adjust' their behaviours and attitudes, hospital admissions will exceed those during the first wave of the disease.

We are not powerless, you are not powerless, we can reclaim a better future for ourselves, our families, and for our fellow citizens, he said.

Mr Swann said he did not wish to return to a lockdown, but stressed that all options would have to be considered during today's meeting.
A fun moment at the White House press briefing on Thursday regarding Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett:

Kayleigh McEnany says in briefing that Amy Coney Barrett is a "Rhodes scholar."



Barrett did not receive a Rhodes Scholarship, but rather received a bachelor's degree from Rhodes College in Memphis.



When reporter points that out, McEnany says, "My bad" https://t.co/Nj065CIsxp pic.twitter.com/YpIFz4W1PA  CBS News (@CBSNews) October 1, 2020

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The Rhodes Scholarship program was established by the British arch-imperialist Cecil Rhodes at the dawn of the 20th century, to help create a unified, Oxford-educated ruling class across what he hoped would be a globe-dominating Anglosphere. Rhodes College is a private liberal-arts school in Tennessee.

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Subscribe to the Slatest newsletter A daily email update of the stories you need to read right now. We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try again. Please enable javascript to use form. Email address: Send me updates about Slate special offers. By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms Sign Up Thanks for signing up! You can manage your newsletter subscriptions at any time.

In any case, a few things are happening here, I think.

 Despite its purported disdain for elites, the Trump administration is actually conditioned by its leaderwho is both insecure about his own reputation and obsessed with superficial appearances to the point that he doesnt even meaningfully understand that substance existsto manifest the most classic kind of credentialism. This is why the nation was treated Tuesday night to the spectacle of one septuagenarian trying to bait another septuagenarian into an argument about where the latter ranked in his college graduating class, 55 years ago.

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 Republicans know that the idea of five or six Supreme Court seats being held by hard-line conservatives who want to overturn Roe v. Wade is unpopular, so they smartly frame each individual nomination push around their judges non-ideological qualifications.

 Amy Coney Barretts nomination is being rushed through before the election and McEnany probably just threw together some briefing materials and saw the word Rhodes and, given that neither she nor anyone in the White House place a high priority on factual accuracy, figured shed go with Rhodes scholar.

Its either that or they did it on purpose to bait snob liberal websites into being snobby about a small college in Tennessee.
The US mortgage industry represents a significant part of the country's financial sector. The coronavirus crisis, business shutdowns, and job losses stemming from the upheaval caused by the pandemic have put pressure on the entire real estate market as well as mortgage companies like Merchants Bancorp (NYSE:MBIN) and PennyMac Financial Services (NYSE:PFSI). In a recent chat with Quintessential Mortgage Group's President Anthony Forte, and CEO and founder David Linn, we discussed key issues home buyers face when looking for a mortgage. Here are the excerpts:

Q: How has COVID-19 impacted home buyers and mortgages?

Anthony: The novel coronavirus has changed the home buying and mortgage spaces in critical ways. Due to the lockdown that has led to the closure of many businesses and the loss of jobs, prospective home buyers now face greater challenges when looking to secure mortgages. There is also the issue of greater mortgage rate volatility to contend with.

Q: Is the mortgage market opening up to brokers on the East Coast?

David: While there's no doubt that the coronavirus crisis has dealt the real estate market a blow, American home buyers are a resilient bunch. On the heels of the lockdown, there was a precipitous drop in activity. But the market is heading up again due to greater demand and an insufficient supply. So, yes, the mortgage market is opening up to brokers on the East Coast. But we're not out of the woods yet.

Q: What are the key issues home buyers face during the mortgage process?

Anthony: It's definitely harder to qualify for a mortgage loan in the current environment. Mortgage availability is south of where it was before the crisis. Homebuyers may also need to have a higher FICO credit score and might need to make a down payment of at least 20%.

David: Though getting a mortgage with a traditional bank may be difficult due to the new guidelines, but mortgage brokers like Quintessential Mortgage Group are able to shop programs and help clients still achieve the goal of owning a home with as little as a 3% down payment and less than perfect credit score.

Story continues

Q: What are the top three things buyers must consider while applying for a mortgage?

Anthony: The three most important things to consider when applying for a mortgage are earnings, credit score, and debt-to-income ratio. Mortgage lenders look at this information, among other things, to determine the loan-worthiness of applicants.

Q: Why should home buyers seek professional services from a mortgage broker than applying themselves?

David: Mortgage brokers are licensed professionals who have access to numerous lenders and mortgage rates. They help clients wade through the complicated application process, advise which lenders are most likely to approve a loan request, and have experience helping people who have less-than-stellar credit.

Q: What is in store for the housing market in early 2021?

Anthony: No one knows for sure what will happen, but many pundits predict that home prices will decline nationally early next year. For instance, CoreLogic predicts that home prices across the nation will have dropped 6.6% from May 2020 to May 2021.
Anyone will tell you that Nicholas Lyndhurst's greatest role was as dim-witted Rodney Trotter, the 'plonker' brother of Del Boy in Only Fools and Horses.

Record-breaking TV audiences of up to 24 million tuned in to watch perpetually luckless Rodders utter lines of brilliance like: 'If there is such a thing as reincarnation, knowing my luck I'll come back as me.'

But for Lyndhurst and his wife Lucy, a former ballerina, his greatest role was without question as a devoted father to his son Archie.

Loving family: Archie with parents Nicholas and Lucy

Archie as a child with his father. When Archie was four, he went on tour with the stage play The Dresser, and phoned his boy 'about every 20 minutes' because he missed him so much

When Archie was born, Lyndhurst turned down project after project which might have taken him away from family life for too long. He explained: 'After Archie was born, I didn't want to do anything. I knew how to make a television programme, but didn't know about fatherhood, so I took three years off. When I went back to work, I thought: It's not fatherhood, is it?'

When Archie was four, he went on tour with the stage play The Dresser, and phoned his boy 'about every 20 minutes' because he missed him so much.

He said: 'I love being a daddy. It's just the best thing I've ever done. You know how children laugh so much that they cackle? I can get Archie to do that, and it's the best feeling.'

He and his wife were in two minds about having another child as they reasoned: 'Is it possible to give the same amount of love to another child, or have a second one as perfect as this?'

Their heartbreak at the shocking, unexplained death of Archie, their only son, at 19 is total.

As the couple's friend, actor John Challis said: 'My heart aches for Nick and Lucy. They could not have loved him more.'

Lyndhurst's own father had been largely absent  Joe Lyndhurst was a philanderer who left his mum and started another family with a girlfriend while he was a child.

He didn't have a relationship with Joe as an adult, and didn't even go to his funeral.

Perhaps because of that very disappointing role model, he threw everything into being the very best dad to Archie.

'I love it all,' he said. 'When Archie was born, I wanted to be at home with him. I knew what a TV studio was like, but I didn't know what bringing up a baby was like.

Their heartbreak at the shocking, unexplained death of Archie, their only son, at 19 is total. Archie pictured above

'The times when I felt especially useful were when Lucy was breastfeeding  Archie was a hungry baby; he fed every two hours  and I'd nip out to the supermarket to get whatever she wanted. The kitchen was like an organic farmers' market. We were always steaming, pounding and sieving.'

At eight, Archie decided he wanted to act  the same age his father had  and he supported his son's dream every step of the way, just as his own mother had supported him.

The blow, then, could not be any harder. Friends of the family say there had been absolutely no inkling of any health problems before Archie's sudden passing 11 days ago, but that he 'died overnight'.The family had been dividing their time between their London home in Fulham and a country house near Chichester, West Sussex, where Lyndhurst grew up.

Archie, who went to a stage school, had been acting since he was ten and appeared destined for stardom. Lyndhurst said proudly that, while he was rather shy, his son was the opposite.

'He came to visit me when I was doing a play a while back. He had a look at the dressing rooms, the set, then he turned around and saw the auditorium and his face lit up. He said, 'Daddy, go and sit where the people sit'.

Archie Lyndhurst pictured with his dad Nicholas. When Archie was born, Lyndhurst turned down project after project which might have taken him away from family life for too long

'So I jumped down and he cleared his throat and announced, 'And now I will be singing the theme from The Incredibles'.

'I can't believe it because I really am a bit shy, to be honest. When I go to America, one of the few places where most of my stuff hasn't sold, and people ask me what I do, I lie. Mostly I tell people I'm a pavement inspector.'

Archie was sent to a theatre school in London from the age of ten. His parents bought a house in the capital so they could be near Archie while he studied. As Lyndhurst said: 'It would break our hearts to be apart.'

He also generously funded a 10,000-a-year scholarship so that another child could have the chances which his boy was getting at stage school.

Lyndhurst had only had the first half term of fees paid by his mother, Liz, herself a former dancer, who didn't have the money to pay for any more. From that point onwards, he had to fund the rest of the education by working.

Liz had become pregnant aged 17 while performing a summer season by Joe Lyndhurst, a charming businessman. She and Joe split, and by the time their son was eight his father had started another family  with a waitress at the same holiday camp.

Joe was only intermittently there when Lyndhurst was growing up, and father and son saw each other a handful of times when he was in his teens before contact petered out altogether.

He said: 'I didn't miss Dad when he was not there. I don't know if that makes me callous, but that is the fairest answer I can give. It was lovely to see him when he did visit, of course. He was a gentle man; very funny and charming and he always made me laugh. There are no regrets. I had a happy childhood with not a moment's sadness.'

His mother had to struggle to create that stability for him. He remembers hiding from the electricity board man, and searching behind cushions for small change.

Some meals were foraged mussels  he thought that activity was fun, and only later realised that they were too poor to afford food. 'I wasn't told that if you didn't forage you weren't going to eat. I had the happiest childhood, I really did. Mum had stresses, but I never knew,' he said.

Archie and Nicholas Lyndhurst appearson CBBC together

When he was 13, his stage school training paid off and he was cast as Peter in a production of Heidi. He had crisp received pronunciation and joked: 'In Heidi, I sound like Celia Johnson.' At 15, he got a part in Porridge sequel Going Straight, alongside Ronnie Barker. He then got a role as one of Wendy Craig's sons in the long-running sitcom Butterflies by pretending he could drive, play guitar and roller skate.

By now he was very tall  having shot up an inch a year in his teens  and played lanky lassitude to great comic effect.

At 19, he was cast as Rodney in Only Fools And Horses. The show wasn't an immediate success and the BBC contemplated axing it. As a shy yet famous bachelor in his twenties, Lyndhurst had just a couple of romances and lived alone with his cat. He was scared of commitment and had a recurring nightmare as a teenager about getting married to a bride he didn't know.

All of that changed when he met Lucy, 12 years his junior. She was in the audience of a stage show in 1992 and he found that he was mesmerised by her blue eyes.

She and a friend sent the cast champagne and chocolates along with a note, and he contacted her. They were married in 1999, an event which, unusually for Lyndhurst, he sold to OK! magazine. He later explained he had only done so to have full security surrounding the event, after details of the forthcoming nuptials leaked out.

Archie was born the following year. At that point, he was at the peak of his fame with Only Fools And Horses, which ended in 2003 after seven series and 15 specials.

With that huge success came fame, which he didn't much enjoy. One issue was that everywhere he went, people were wont to shout 'You plonker!' at him. He sighed in 2007: 'Imagine being on Parkinson every day. That's what it's like. People still get irked I don't talk like a south London market trader. '

He has managed to retain a great love for the show, and for Rodney, but isn't able to watch it any more as it brings home too forcefully the sad deaths of many of the cast, and of writer John Sullivan.

Afterwards, he starred in Goodnight Sweetheart and the dramas David Copperfield and New Tricks, but in truth he said no to almost everything.

He explained: 'Since I got married, and especially since my son was born, I drive everybody nuts by looking at everything I'm offered and saying, 'It's quite good, but I'm just so happy being married I don't want to be away from home'.'

Naturally shy, he was in retreat from the spotlight before this tragedy  happy instead to let his beloved boy take his place in it.
Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health has abandoned its plan to shelter up to 40 undocumented migrant children in Devon, Chester County. The decision comes roughly a year and a half after Devereux secured a $40.2 million federal grant to house and provide services to scores of children in Pennsylvania and four other states.

Devereux also no longer intends to house 12 migrant children at a facility in Rutland, Mass., a spokesperson told The Inquirer. He declined to say what prompted Devereux to shelve its plans there and in Devon.

The reversal comes in the wake of an Inquirer investigation that detailed how the organization repeatedly failed to protect children in its care from male staffers who sexually abused them in incidents that spanned 25 years. Meanwhile, President Donald Trumps closure of the nations borders in response to the pandemic has drastically curtailed the federal governments need to house migrant children.

Headquartered in Villanova, Devereux specializes in treating children with intellectual disabilities, mental disorders, and trauma at 15 residential campuses in nine states, making it the nations leading nonprofit health organization of its kind. It cares for 5,000 children every year.

Local immigrant-rights advocates, who have vociferously opposed Devereuxs proposal and worked to prevent the Devon site from opening, welcomed the news as a first step.

The Inquirer reporting made it clear that Devereux has been unwilling and also unable to ensure the safety of youth in their care, said Zia Kandler, community organizer for Juntos, a Philadelphia-based immigrant rights group. "But this doesnt change the fact that Devereux already has a grant agreement with the government to provide housing at other facilities. These detention centers are sold as `shelters,' but really theyre detention for children in federal custody.

Devereuxs decision also comes amid an investigation by the U.S. Senate Finance Committee, which includes Sens. Bob Casey Jr. (D, Pa.) and Pat Toomey (R, Pa.), into why the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) would award millions in public money to residential programs with a poor track record of safeguarding children from sexual abuse. Additionally, the committee is examining whether a lack of ORR oversight can lead to misuses of funds by grant recipients.

ORR, which falls under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, provides temporary shelter and care for migrant children  deemed by the federal government as unaccompanied minors  who crossed the countrys southern border alone, or were separated there from their parents.

The finance committee began to question ORRs unaccompanied-minor program in late 2018 after the New York Times and Texas Tribune detailed how Southwest Key, a Texas-based facility that received government money to house migrant children, paid managers and its chief executive excessive salaries and engaged in financial self-dealing. The probe expanded last year after the news website Axios reported that ORR and the Department of Justice had received thousands of complaints of sexual abuse of migrant children in federally funded facilities from October 2014 to July 2018.

The Senate Finance Committee is conducting a bipartisan investigation into how ORR addresses allegations of misconduct at behavioral health facilities receiving federal funding. Last week, Caseys and Toomeys offices said the committees investigation will now include scrutiny of Devereux, which won its ORR grant last year. It runs from Feb. 1, 2019, to Jan. 1, 2022, according to ORR.

The reports of abuse and misconduct at Devereux are serious and concerning, Toomeys office wrote in a Sept. 22 statement sent to The Inquirer.

In a Sept. 20 letter, Casey urged Christi Grimm, acting inspector general of HHS, to conduct an independent investigation into allegations of child abuse at Devereux, the federal grant, and what ORR is doing to protect children within their care.

The now-scrapped plans to house a total of 52 migrant children at facilities in Devon and Massachusetts were key selling points in Devereuxs application for the $40.2 million.

Devereux also proposed to provide 18 residential beds in Colorado, 24 in Connecticut and 64 in Texas, in addition to a foster-care program in New Jersey that would place two dozen children in homes.

In a September 2 email to The Inquirer, however, ORR said Devereux has less than 10 unaccompanied children at its residential facility in Victoria, Texas. And Devereux had no migrant children in its care at the Colorado and Connecticut facilities, according to a Sept. 14 email from ORR.

Each year, thousands of migrant children travel to the U.S., often without an adult, fleeing gang violence and extreme poverty in Central America. They are initially detained by the Department of Homeland Security and then handed over to ORR, which must provide shelter until the child can be placed with a relative or a sponsor here while awaiting immigration proceedings.

But the number of migrant children being taken into federal custody  and the demand for shelter beds  has dropped off dramatically since March when the Trump administration shut the border in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Since then, almost 9,000 unaccompanied children have been swiftly expelled back to their home countries, according to Justice Department documents.

Devereux and ORR declined to reveal how many migrant children the nonprofit has housed and provided services to since the grant start date, despite repeated requests from reporters. Devereux and ORR spokespeople also declined to tell The Inquirer how much of the $40.2 million grant has been spent, or drawn down, to date.

Last fall, after news of Devereuxs plan to use its Stone and Gables campus on Highland Avenue in Devon to shelter migrant children became public, The Inquirer reported that Devereux anticipated an initial government payment of $14 million to prepare the Devon location and facilities in the four other states to accommodate migrant children.

ORR awarded the grant partly on Devereuxs claim that it is "uniquely qualified to detect and prevent sexual assault.

The Inquirers investigation, published in August, detailed how 41 children as young as 12 years old, and with IQs as low as 50, were raped or sexually assaulted by Devereux staff members over the last 25 years. Of those, 10 said they were assaulted at Devereuxs local campuses, while the others were abused at facilities in New Jersey, Texas, Florida, Georgia, Connecticut, New York, and Arizona.

Devereux leaders said that in the last two years, they have increased safety and reduced risk by adopting a host of safeguards to prevent such abuse and hold staffers accountable.

In December 2019, just months after Devereux secured the ORR grant, a Devereux staffer in a Texas facility was charged with allegedly sexually abusing four children, including a 16-year-old girl who said he threatened to have her beaten up, and a 12-year-old who said he molested her several times.

And between October 2018 and March 2019, three girls at a Devereux campus in Arizona were sexually abused by a male staffer in their bedrooms and the facilitys laundry room, they told police.

I dont know why the hell the Department of Health and Human Services would enter into a [grant] with Devereux in the first place, Casey said in a recent interview. That was wrong from the outset.

Devereux brings in more than $497 million in annual revenues, yet understaffed its campuses and failed to adequately supervise its patients and staff members, The Inquirer investigation found. In an August interview, Devereux executives vigorously denied that campuses currently have issues with staffing or supervision.

Last week, city officials announced they will pull all 53 Philadelphia children out of residential campuses run by Devereux after a six-week safety review found that staffers repeatedly failed to watch over them.

Devereux would not reply to two specific questions: How much grant money had it spent? How many children had been in its care? Instead, Hugh Braithwaite, a Devereux spokesperson, sent a statement:

As part of our mission to care for the most vulnerable children in our nation, Devereux supports the Office of Refugee Resettlement in their mission to help unaccompanied children. As one of the largest and most advanced behavioral health care nonprofits in the country, our programs are uniquely designed to care for children who have experienced trauma. We provide therapeutic residential and educational services, physical health care including pediatric, dental, and nutritional supports as well as access to immigration attorneys and case management services for every child.

Braithwaite referred a reporter to ORR, as did Leah Yaw, Devereuxs senior vice president and chief strategy officer. ORR said the amount of funds that Devereux and other grantees have drawn down" from its payment management system is not public information. The agency also said the number of migrant children cared for by Devereux is not available in a readily reportable format.

The detention of migrant children has been highly controversial, and the award of millions in public money to Devereux and other organizations shows how the housing of undocumented migrants has become big business in the United States.

Devon residents and immigrant rights groups in the Philadelphia region banded together last fall to fight Devereuxs plans to house migrant children at the vacant Highland Avenue building it already owns.

Residents who live near the property had challenged the shelters zoning, to block it from opening, during a heated September 2019 meeting of the Easttown Township Board of Supervisors.

Stephanie McAlaine, a community organizer who lives across the street from what would have been the Devon facility, said shes delighted that Devereux scrapped its plan.

I dont think Devereux is properly prepared to care for these children here or anywhere, frankly. And I dont think children should be held in detention, she said.

So this is a win for children.
New Delhi, Oct 1 : 'Four More Shots Please' actress Sayani Gupta feels that portrayal of women in the Hindi mainstream cinema is moving in the right direction, thanks to more women storytellers coming to the forefront and bringing with them a "female gaze" that counters a "male gaze" prevalent for the longest time.

Sayani, 34, is known for the strong roles she plays. She made her feature film debut in 2012 in 'Second Marriage Dot Com' and has appeared in supporting roles in films such as 'Fan', 'Jolly LLB 2' and 'Article 15'. Her latest web series, which was a popular success, has recently been nominated at the International Emmy Awards.

Asked about the critique of how women are portrayed in the mainstream cinema, and if she finds it changing at all, Sayani tells IANSlife: "It is, and it should be critiqued, especially in Bollywood and in Hindi mainstream cinema. It's extremely problematic, you don't have representation of all kinds of woman. It's only a very skewed version of what a woman should be, and what she's doing." She adds: "Often she doesn't have a valid agency of her own life, and often decisions are being made for her. Her only motto in life is to make the hero happy or romance the hero or wait for the hero to save her from the villain, and so on and so forth. Of course it's changing, it's moving in the right direction and that's only because there are many more women story tellers who are coming in the forefront -- the women directors, technicians, cinematographers. When you have women telling their own stories, then it makes a huge difference in terms of what woman gaze is. For the longest time, the gaze has been extremely male and that needs to change. Of course it's changing for better, but we have a long, long way to go. Until we change our society, how we think, how we look at the girls, how we bring up our children - the girl child and the boy child, it's not going to change much." Sayani is hosting a virtual acting workshop on 'Getting into Character' in the series 'Femmes in Film' by Bumble and India Film Project, on Saturday, October 3. Developed exclusively for the Bumble Community, 'Femmes in Film' is a series of virtual workshops to be hosted by women artistes including Sayani, Aranya Johar, Kanika Dhillon and Anjali Menon. These weekly workshops will focus on acting, screenwriting, storytelling, and filmmaking.

Calling 'Femmes in Film' a great initiative, Sayani gives a sneak peak into her workshop. "It's a workshop that I'm taking on acting and approaching characters, building characters. It is something that we do as actors very regularly, everyday. It is something that I'm more than happy to be sharing with the Bumble community and whoever is attending the workshop. It's something I'm really passionate about and I hope that I'm able to impart something or at least share something of interest and value to whoever is attending the workshop, I would hope so. As a concept of what IFP and Bumble are doing, is really brilliant. You need more and more woman creators, filmmakers, storytellers, actors, writers, comedians to come at the forefront and share their story, share their process. It is also very interesting because we need to amplify the voices that need to be heard more, especially today." Stories by women, or stories featuring strong women leads, are often put in the box. Does she agree? Sayani answers in an affirmative.

"Of course, they are put in a box. We have to try to break those moulds and break those stereotypes. I don't think a movie written or directed by a women has to be essentially 'female centric'. That's a problem in itself, when you make movie with a male protagonist, it's not called 'male centric' but when there is a female protagonist it's called 'female centric'. Why? These are universal stories, these are stories about people. Why this gender demarcation and putting different genders in different boxes? That's not necessary, and that's extremely problematic. That I feel is something one needs to do away with but that's not going to happen overnight." Asked what is the one thing she thinks is not taught enough in cinema education, but should be, Sayani, who is graduate from the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) - one of India's top film schools, points to the ability to monetize one's creative passions.

"One thing that FTII doesn't teach you is to go out there and look at commerce and project yourself as a commercial creator. How to make money, basically, and how to sell. Because there are lot of brilliant people who come out of FTII and they're often struggling with how to really marry the two -- creativity and commerce. That is something that I wish somebody taught us but nobody did. (Laughs) We are obviously left to ourselves to fend for ourselves, as it happens in most art schools. So, how to monetise because filmmaking is an extremely expensive medium - it's business, after all - one needs to understand all of that, so that needs a little more focus.

Coming back to the basics, she also feels the need to teach better writing. "I think the first is to write better, to write better characters, to write better women characters, to write with all kinds of representation - be it women, be it the marginalized of the population, be it the trans community, be it the LGBTQ+ community. There needs to be more unapologetic representation in our cinema, so I think writing is something that needs to be given more importance." According to Samarpita Samaddar, Bumble India PR Director, Sayani is an incredible artiste whose session will be focused on acting and how to approach characters in cinema. "The weekly series, Femmes in Film, will focus on acting, screenwriting, storytelling, and filmmaking. We look forward to kicking off the series with Sayani Gupta on October 3," she shared.

Other discussions in the series are: 'Pitch perfect poetry' by Aranya Johar (October 10), 'The art of character development' by Kanika Dhillon (October 17), and 'Things they don't teach you at film school" by Anjali Menon (October 24). The workshops are free to attend. To attend the workshop, one can download Bumble, match with the India Film Project profile on the Date, Bizz or BFF modes and apply to book a spot.

(Siddhi Jain can be contacted at siddhi.j@ians.in)
The crisis highlighted that the country was investing too little in the health sector, CEO of AB-PMJAY Indu Bhushan said on Thursday as he stressed on the need to invest more in primary, secondary and critical care.

Addressing a webinar titled Digital Revolution Going Viral' during FICCI HEAL 2020 event, he said the crisis has spurred some reforms and digital health is one of them, according to a statement issued by FICCI.

The (COVID-19) crisis showed the fault lines in the India is investing too little in health and it is one of the lowest in the world. This crisis has shown that we need to do much more and we need to invest more in the primary, secondary and critical care, Bhushan was quoted as saying in the statement.

Bhushan, CEO of Ayushman Bharat- Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojna (AB-PMJAY) and the Health Authority, said the Digital Health Mission (NDHM) blueprint was developed over the last two years, which aims to provide a unique health ID to every citizen and link them together with electronic health records.

The aim is to improve transparency in the sector, make health services more accessible, interoperable, and make policy more evidence-based, he said.

The NDHM has citizens at the centre of the whole concept and we are adopting privacy and security in the design itself and not as an afterthought, the official asserted.

Drawing a parallel with other government initiatives, Bhushan said India has gone through the FinTech revolution and the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) which have revolutionised the financial sector, adding we aim to do the same thing in the through NDHM.

We will be providing the digital infrastructure and it will revolutionise the health sector, he said.

Elaborating on the government's digital initiatives, specifically the telemedicine network, Bhushan said, The excitement regarding telemedicine and digitising the whole healthcare system stems from the PM himself.

The NDHM was one of the major announcements from the ramparts of the Red Fort this Independence Day, he added.

The senior official said the implementation of NDHM has been initiated on a pilot basis.

We are acting on the start small, think big and scale fast' principle, and hopefully, in six months, you will start seeing the impact on a larger ecosystem, he noted.

Sangita Reddy, President-FICCI and Joint MD, Apollo Hospitals, said COVID-19 brought together some of the most powerful and innovative thought processes across the world.

Telemedicine is not just tele-consults, it is an integrated platform that one can use. It is evolving and emerging and the day physical medicine and telemedicine are seamlessly integrated is when we have won the telemedicine game, she was quoted as saying in the statement.

She said India is clearly ramping up for the vaccination challenge and it is not just about production.

We will produce for India and the world. One of the critical aspects of administering vaccines is human resources and India has the human resource to do that, Reddy said.

The Health Service (NHS), UK is looking to acquire doctors and nurses from India to help them in this challenge. This is a tremendous opportunity for India to showcase its capabilities, she added.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
After years of pursuing a trio of former Venezuelan officials in major drug-trafficking cases, the U.S. government is offering tens of millions of dollars in rewards for information leading to their arrests.

The three ex-Venezuelan officials are accused in Miami federal court of exporting cocaine from Colombia and extorting bribes from drug smugglers in exchange for protecting them. The former high-ranking officials have been wanted for more than five years.

The U.S. Department of State said Tuesday it is offering rewards for information on:

 Pedro Luis Martin-Olivares, 53, a former top economic official in the Venezuelan Intelligence Service, was indicted in 2015 on charges of smuggling cocaine into the United States and intending to distribute the drugs on an aircraft registered in the United States. The reward for his arrest: up to $10 million.

 Rodolfo McTurk-Mora, 58, the former head of Interpol in Venezuela, was indicted in 2013 on charges of conspiring to import cocaine into the United States and with impeding the prosecution of narco-trafficker Jaime Alberto Marin Zamora by delaying his extradition. Through his official position, McTurk-Mora solicited bribes from traffickers arrested in Venezuela to prevent their extradition to the United States. The reward for his arrest: up to $5 million.

 Jesus Alfredo Itriago, 62, the former chief of counter-narcotics of a criminal investigative agency in Venezuela, was indicted in 2013 on a charge of conspiring to import cocaine into the United States. The reward for his arrest: up to $5 million.

Corrupt Venezuelan officials who lined their pockets by protecting drug traffickers from detection and arrest enabled the entry of enormous amounts of dangerous drugs into the United States, U.S. Attorney Ariana Fajardo Orshan said in a statement.

Keith Weis, the special agent in charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration in Miami, said that the rewards for information leading to their whereabouts and capture will add another significant level of pressure to bring them to justice.

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The announcement of the reward offers comes six months after the U.S. Justice Department accused Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and several other government officials of turning Venezuela into a narco-state by collaborating with a leftist Colombian guerrilla group that exported tons of cocaine to the United States.

An indictment, filed in New York, accuses Maduro and other current and former officials in his socialist regime of conspiring with the U.S.-designated terrorist group known as the FARC so that Venezuela could be used as a base for narcotics shipments smuggled on flights and boats through Central America, Mexico and the Caribbean. The rebel group financed its long-running civil war against the Colombian government with the drug proceeds.

The U.S. State Department is offering up to $15 million for information leading to Maduros arrest.

Charged along with Maduro were Diosdado Cabello, a former president of the National Assembly who is considered the second most powerful political figure in Venezuela; Hugo Carvajal, a former director of military intelligence who is believed to be at large in Spain; and Cliver Antonio Alcala, a former general in the Venezuelan armed forces, and two senior FARC leaders.
Chicago Fire Dept. spokesman Larry Langford said there was a report of someone shot with a paintball but no one was taken to a hospital by a city ambulance.
Poll watchers are critical to ensuring the fairness of any election, and President Trumps volunteer poll watchers will be trained to ensure all rules are applied equally, all valid ballots are counted, and all Democrat rule breaking is called out, campaign spokeswoman Thea McDonald said. And if fouls are called, the Trump campaign will go to court to enforce the laws, as rightfully written by state legislatures, to protect every voters right to vote. President Trump and his team will be ready to make sure polls are run correctly, securely, and transparently as we work to deliver the free and fair election Americans deserve.
Egypt is aware of its interests and is able to defend them, and everyone should pay attention to their own self and to the interest of their country, Shoukry said

Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry said on Thursday that the statements of some Turkish officials about Egypt are "surprising and contradictory.

He made the remarks during a joint press conference with his Hungarian counterpart Peter Szijjarto in Cairo, where the pair had held a meeting.

"The repeated Turkish statements that deal, from a Turkish perspective, with what Egypt should do are surprising and contradictory," Shoukry said.

He added that such statements "serve as a claim that there are those who know the interests of Egypt better than those responsible for protecting its interests."

The minister said that Egypt is known for its commitment to international legal norms and the charter of the United Nations, and hence it signs agreements from a sound international perspective.

"Egypt is aware of its interests and is able to defend them, and everyone should pay attention to their own self and to the interest of their country," Shoukry said.

He also referred indirectly to the Turkish military presence in some Arab countries, saying, "what is the legitimacy on which some unjustly build their military presence in Arab countries?"

Relations between Egypt and Turkey have been strained since the 2013 ouster of Mohamed Morsi, who was a close ally of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogans government.

Egypt has repeatedly condemned Ankara's support for the terrorist-designated Muslim Brotherhood.

Tensions have escalated in recent months over Ankara's military intervention in war-torn Libya, its violation of Iraq's sovereignty, and its search for gas in the Eastern Mediterranean, in violation of the territorial waters of Greece and Cyprus, two close allies of Cairo.

Addressing a virtual meeting of Arab foreign ministers organised by the Arab League earlier this month, Shoukry stressed the necessity of adopting a "unified and firm Arab policy" against Turkeys "destructive practices" in Libya, Syria and Iraq.

Conflict further heightened after Egypt and Greece signed a maritime demarcation deal in August establishing an exclusive economic zone between the two countries, sparking an angry response from Turkey.

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Education Minister Norma Foley has apologised to the class of 2020 for the anxiety and worry caused to them by the Leaving Cert calculated grades debacle.

Minister Foley said she salutes teachers who have acted in the best interests of their students.

And she pledged that all affected students would be able to gain the university places they deserve.

For the students who might have taken up one offer and may now be in a situation to receive a higher offer, we are going to move might and mane, to ensure that students will be in a position to receive those offers this year, to the best of our ability, Minister Foley told the Dail tonight.

It is important as a special arrangement, any student who gets a higher offer, that student wont have any fees to pay or registration for Susi.

Its not an ideal situation, Id never have wanted students to be in that situation. All of us want the best for students.

I worked all my life in the education sector This is not an ideal situation, I do regret it.

Minister Foley added: Yesterday was a very difficult day for the class of 2020. Announcements that we've made have inevitably generated a lot of anxiety and worry for them. But the announcement yesterday was important. We could not provide all of the answers to their questions, at that time.

I do wish to apologise sincerely to the Leaving Certificate class of 2020.

Minister Foley said two errors had been found in the calculated grade system for the Leaving Certificate.

These were errors that should not have occurred. I am very clear on that point, Minister Foley said.

The Minister explained how she had waited for full information for several days but did so to get a full explanation.

But she had realised that the information would have to be made public rapidly, as third place offers were about to be made and the CAO needed to be notified.

Canadian company Polymetrica spotted the errors and raised the alarm on Tuesday evening, she explained.

Minister Foley said We do not live in a perfect world, and mistakes happen, but all measures were being taken to deal with those.

It was agreed immediately that Polymetrica would seek to investigate this anomaly further and report back to the calculated grades executive office, she said.

On Wednesday afternoon I was told a mistake had been identified by Polymetrica, she added.

At that point, we knew that one line out of 50,000 lines of code had a mistake and we knew that it would impact on the result for some students.

But we did not know exactly how many would be affected. We knew that it was important to find out as much as possible about the error before making an announcement

50,000 lines of code had been examined, she said. And at no time had Junior Cert results been used to predict Leaving Cert results.

The data was to be used at an aggregated class level, she said. The system was meant to draw on the core subjects of Irish, English and Maths and combine them

The coding error instead combined them with the students two weakest non core subjects

She explained that in the course of a review the calculated grade executive office immediately explored the error on Friday.

During this process, it found a further error in the code, she said.

The results of the subject civic social physical education (CSP) were meant to be disregarded by the system, she said.

However, this subject was included, in error, she added. The Department of Education has now engaged American company ETS to provide a review to offer an independent expert opinion on the adequacy of the coding.

Furthermore, it is my intention that a full review of the calculated grades process would be conducted in due course.

Minister Foley said Polymetrica are experts in the areas of statistics and educational testing.

As a result of both errors, approximately 6,500 students received at least one result, which was one grade lower than they should have that has been rectified, she said.

In addition to the students who received a lower grade than they should have in this year's Leaving Certificate some students received higher grades.

They will not be affected in any way.

The latter students would keep the higher grades, she explained.

Those who have received a lower grade would have their proper grade restored.

Every student will be contacted by text message and informed whether they are impacted or not, she added.

Those who are affected will be directed to the calculated grade student portal, where they will find a new statement of provisional results.

This will replace the one that they received on September 7.

A dedicated helpline for students was set up, which opened at 4pm yesterday. Minister Foley explained she did not know how many students had received a higher grade than they should.
National carrier Oman Air has announced that it has entered into a codeshare partnership with low-cost airline Salam Air to offer customers enhanced connectivity between the sultanate and five other international destinations, starting from today (October 1).

Under the agreement, Oman Air is putting its WY code on Salam Air flights between Muscat and Chittagong, Dhaka, Sialkot, Multan and Khartoum. Tickets are now on sale at the Oman Air's website and also travel agencies.

Oman Air CEO Abdulaziz Al Raisi said: "We are proud and delighted with our new partnership with Salam Air. This codeshare agreement will make it so much easier for our guests to travel through our Muscat hub to cities in Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sudan."

"This opens up exciting new opportunities for our customers across the network to enjoy seamless travel to these destinations and enjoy a rich world of opportunities for vacations and business travel," he stated.

"We also look forward to welcoming guests from these nations and sharing our renowned Omani hospitality," he noted.

On the code-share deal, Salam Air CEO Captain Mohamed Ahmed said this offers a fantastic new opportunity for passengers of both airlines.

"We are delighted to be welcoming Oman Airs passengers on board our Salam Air international services from Muscat to Chittagong, Dhaka, Sialkot, Multan and Khartoum, offering them access to best destinations and a flavor of our wonderful Omani hospitality even before they reach their final destination," notwed Ahmed.

"We are extremely proud of this new codeshare, which yet again proves testament to our commitment to our passengers in offering an ever-expanding network as well as great connectivity. I am also sure that this phase of the partnership with Oman Air is only the first step and we will continue to look to implement more travel opportunities for the customers of both airlines when the opportunities arise," he added.-TradeArabia News Service
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 10:55:30|Editor: huaxia

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Alicia Barcena, executive secretary of the UN Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), participates in a press conference in Santiago, Chile, Oct. 30, 2017. (Xinhua/Wang Pei)

China's poverty-fighting campaign is "an inspiring strategy" and its lessons are worth learning, Alicia Barcena said.

SANTIAGO, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- China's experience of successfully lifting hundreds of millions out of poverty through economic growth can help Latin American countries devise policies to combat poverty, a senior UN official has said.

Noting that China has transformed itself into a high-productivity country, Alicia Barcena, executive secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), told Xinhua recently that the keys to China's success are economic growth that leads to job creation and development in technological innovation and infrastructure, which boosts connectivity.

As examples, she cited China's efforts to develop clean energy and environmentally-friendly industries, "sectors that drive job creation and also increase productivity, which are two essential elements in poverty alleviation."

China's orderly urbanization drive to raise people's standards of living is another strategy that Latin American countries can study and adapt for their own populations, the official said.

In China, rural-to-urban migration is encouraged and accompanied by "social protection measures," she said, adding that in Latin America and the Caribbean, "we urbanize before overcoming poverty, while China tries to alleviate poverty and urbanize at the same time. It is a different strategy from ours."

According to ECLAC predictions, more than 45 million people in Latin America will join the ranks of the poor this year due to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The United Nations has already called for "a direct commitment on the part of states to achieve a reduction in poverty."

"Collaboration with China can help a lot," said Barcena, adding that Latin America can learn from China's experience in fighting poverty in rural areas, including land distribution, incorporation of the population into productive sectors and reduction of inequality.

China's poverty-fighting campaign is "an inspiring strategy" and its lessons are worth learning, she said.

China has made it possible "to accelerate the reduction of poverty at the global level and it did so with a commitment to South-South cooperation, where it is also giving a lot of support to less developed nations," the UN official said. 
Kolkata, Oct 1 : Once Trinamool Congress' second-in-command, Mukul Roy seems to be taking over the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) election campaign for the high-voltage West Bengal Assembly polls scheduled next year.

Roy once again came to the political centre stage before the state's crucial poll battle following a high-level meeting in New Delhi attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, national President J.P. Nadda, Bengal BJP chief Dilip Ghosh and other political big shots of the saffron brigade.

It was learnt that Roy would be given the role of a co-observer for the party in the upcoming Bengal polls, sources in the BJP said.

In a bid to topple the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government in Bengal, Roy emerged as a key political trump card for the BJP's central leadership.

On September 26, Roy was promoted from an ordinary member of the BJP's national executive committee to the post of National Vice President by Nadda, along with the elevation of two others from Bengal, Anupam Hazra and Raju Bista, who were also given key roles in the party.

The decision to give more political importance to Bengal BJP leaders came at a time when the party is gearing up for the upcoming political face-off to oust the ruling Trinamool Congress government in the state.

"The West Bengal Assembly elections are scheduled to be held in 2021. Along with state BJP President Dilip Ghosh, I will try to ensure a BJP victory in Bengal," Roy had said on being appointed in the new role.

Earlier, Roy was given the charge of being a convenor for the BJP in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, in which the saffron brigade had secured as many as 18 parliamentary seats in the state, and an unprecedented rise of over 40 per cent of the total votes.

According to sources in the BJP, this time also the party is not going to change its strategy. The key responsibility would be given to Roy, once known as Mamata's chief lieutenant in the Trinamool Congress, to spearhead the party's charge in next year's Assembly polls.

A few months back, speculation were also rife that Roy had developed differences with Dilip Ghosh on certain issues and the matter even reached New Delhi for necessary redressal.

Once the second-in-command in the state after Mamata Banerjee, Roy had left the Trinamool Congress in October 2017 following differences with the party supremo.
On Wednesday, International Forwarding and Brokers Association of Australia chief executive Paul Damkjaer appealed to members with a call to arms  of the bureaucratic variety.

But an appeal sent out to industry from behind the scenes shows just how well-prepped the Attorney-General and his department were to escalate the battle if the impasse over the port operator's enterprise bargaining agreement continued with the MUA.

Attorney-General Christian Porter had a win of sorts on Thursday when the Maritime Union of Australia agreed to press pause on industrial action against Sydney port operator, Patrick, until the end of the month.

NOTE: The Press Council has not upheld a complaint about this article. Read the full adjudication here .

"Today I have been contacted by the office of the Attorney-General requesting information on the impact the Sydney ports issue is having," Damkjaer wrote. "The Attorney-General's office would appreciate a letter or an email from your clients which/who are being impacted or who are concerned about the effects of the ongoing industrial action."

Letters sent needed to include specifics regarding costs incurred, delays and knock-on effects the industrial action has caused to members' clients, Damkjaer said.

He also included the reminder: "Your client would need to be comfortable with the letter potentially being submitted as evidence to the Fair Work Commission in the event the Attorney decides to intervene in support of terminating industrial action."

Porter, luckily, didn't need to take the nuclear option of relying on the Fair Work Commission to terminate the MUA's proposed action. But it's nice to know the A-G's department now has its ducks in a row if it needs to take the FWC route in a month's time.

Either way, government moves to work so closely with shipping bosses over the wharfies heads can't come as a pleasant surprise to his "BFF" ACTU secretary Sally McManus, who Porter has been relying on to help salvage broader industrial reform talks, which so far have stalled. Another union official said they were happy to finally witness the government's industrial relations sausage-factory in action.
Srikanth Paladugu poses for a portrait in Hopkinton, MA on Aug. 31, 2018. Paladugu has been waiting for a green card since 2012. His application was approved several years ago, but because of an immigration backlog for Indian nationals, he has been unable to get permanent residency. (Suzanne Kreiter/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

In a rare piece of good news for (some) immigrants hoping to qualify for U.S. citizenship, the State Department has projected that in the fiscal year starting Oct. 1, more than 250,000 green cards, an all-time high, will be made available to certain categories of foreign nationals  primarily highly skilled tech-industry workers from India, most of them already in the U.S. on employment-based visas.

The bad news is that the wait to receive one of the precious documents certifying legal permanent residency  the final stop on the legal immigration path to citizenship  may still be as long as several decades, owing to a combination of outdated policies that have not caught up to the changing trends in immigration over the last 25 years.

Highly skilled Indian workers and their families make up three-quarters of the more than one million prospective immigrants in the United States who are currently stuck in whats known as the employment-based green card backlog. They are in the U.S. legally, generally on H-1B visas issued to immigrants holding a job requiring specialized skills. But the visas must be renewed regularly and recertified by their employers. If they lose their jobs, they may no longer be eligible to stay in the country, and they are subject to various other restrictions. Their ability to travel to their home country is limited. While awaiting legal permanent resident status, their non-citizen family members are also forced to live in a sort-of limbo: spouses often struggle to obtain work permits of their own, while their children, many of whom have spent most of their lives in the United States, risk losing legal status if they turn 21 before their parent reaches the front of the line.

If a prospective immigrant dies while waiting for a green card  an increasingly realistic possibility for Indian workers caught in the ever-expanding backlog  their family members also lose their spot in line, which in some cases means they are no longer legally permitted to live in the United States.

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Current U.S. law limits both the total number of green cards made available each year  a number that has stayed the same for 30 years  as well as the percentage of that annual allotment that can be claimed by nationals of a given country to no more than seven percent of the total number of employment and family-based green cards each year. That has resulted in disproportionately long wait times for otherwise eligible green card seekers from certain countries, notably India, which has become the leading source of employment-based immigration to the U.S. since the start of the tech boom in the mid-90s. The backlog is expected to double in less than a decade.

According to a policy brief published by David Bier, an immigration policy analyst at the Cato Institute in March, recently backlogged Indian workers face an impossible wait of nine decades, while more than 200,000 Indians with currently pending petitions could die of old age before they receive their green cards.

Candidates for US citizenship listen to speeches during a naturalization ceremony for new US citizens February 16, 2017 in Newark, New Jersey. Eighty-nine applicants from thirty-seven countries received their certificates of citizenship. (Robert Nickelsberg/Getty Images)

Highly skilled foreign workers who enter the U.S. on certain types of work visas can seek to become legal permanent residents by having their employers file a petition on their behalf. However, because U.S. employers file significantly more petitions for Indian workers than are allowed under the current per-country limits, the Cato Institutes Bier found that the government is approving nearly two petitions for employmentbased immigrants for every green card it is issuing to them.

The bonanza of green cards coming in Fiscal Year 2021 is an unintended consequence of the Trump administrations crackdown on legal immigration by family members of permanent residents already in the U.S.  what Trump has described as chain migration. With fewer family green cards being issued, more will be available for employment-based applicants.

Experts generally agree that the only way to clear the employment-based green card backlog is for Congress to substantially raise (or eliminate) the annual green card ceiling. But a bill that passed the House last year attempts to offer a partial solution.

The Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act would eliminate the per-country caps on employment-based green cards while increasing the limit for all family-sponsored immigrants from seven to 15 percent per country.

While the House of Representatives quickly passed its version of the bill with a large bipartisan majority last year, the Senate version has come up against a series of roadblocks, becoming the subject of heated debate that seems likely to continue into the next year. Since September of 2019, Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah), the sponsor of the Senate bill (S. 386), has attempted to push the bill through expedited proceedings by calling for a unanimous consent vote on a number of occasions only to be thwarted each time by a hold on the bill placed by different senators.

Proponents of the legislation say it offers a simple solution to the insufferable waits unfairly imposed upon certain would-be immigrants simply because of their country of origin, and will result in more equitable treatment of all green card applicants.

Critics, however, argue that the bill fails to address the root cause of the backlog  which is the growing disparity between the number of employment-based green cards made available each year and the volume of qualified applicants.

A sign at the gates of U.S consulate in Sao Paulo, Brazil on March 25, 2020 reads that the building is closed due to the coronavirus pandemic. All visa appointments were postponed and the United States Embassy in Brazil recommended their citizens to return to the U.S. (Rebeca Figueiredo Amorim/Getty Images)

According to an analysis of the bill by the Congressional Research Service, unless Congress substantially raises the annual limit on employment-based green cards, the backlog will continue to grow at the same pace regardless of whether the Senate passes the Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act. Rather, the difference would be seen in which immigrants are most impacted by the backlog.

The analysis found that by eliminating the per-country caps, the bill would initially reduce wait times for green card seekers from India and, to a lesser extent China, in the years following enactment but it would do so at the expense of nationals from all other countries, as well as of the enterprises in which the latter are employed. While under the current policy, employment-based green card applicants from countries other than India or China face relatively short wait times, under the proposed changes, the Congressional Research Service report found that within the next decade the wait times would equalize among all nationals within each category, with all prospective immigrants, regardless of country of origin, facing potential waits of between seven and 40 years.

The Cato Institutes David Bier agrees that more visas would be the ideal solution, but is skeptical about whether its a realistic one.

There's obviously a better way to deal with the backlog than just redistributing green cards between nationalities, he said. But In lieu of fact that congress is not likely to increase the number of green cards, it's incredibly unfair to Indian immigrants that they have to wait in decades long [lines] or even longer while the rest of the world gets ushered to the front of the line.

Bier suggested that part of the reason we havent seen movement on increasing green cards overall, is because of the fact that only one nationality is adversely affected by the way green cards are currently issued.

As long as it's one nationality, [theres] no incentive to fight for reform, he said. While there is a better way, this is the only viable way at the moment.

Charles Kuck, an Atlanta-based immigration attorney and outspoken opponent of the bill, disagrees.

While Kuck said he doesnt think it's fair for Indians to have to wait 50 years or more for a green card, he also does not support reducing the wait time for Indians at the expense of everyone else.

Kuck acknowledges that, under the current administration, legislation that seeks to increase immigration in any way has little chance of being enacted. Still, he argues it is worth waiting to pass a bill that includes a much-needed increase in green cards, insisting that ad hoc, one-off solutions dont fix our immigration laws, they just make them worse.

This is an issue thats screaming for attention, thats screaming to be fixed, and we don't want anyone left out in the cold, Kuck said. We want a solution that works for everybody, but not at the cost of somebodys ability to immigrate to America.

_____

Read more from Yahoo News:
In many patients with Crohn's disease abdominal fat migrates to the wall of the inflamed small intestines. What prompts the fat tissue to "creep" through the abdomen and wrap around the intestines of many patients with this inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has been an enduring mystery.

Now, investigators have identified a critical clue. In a study published in the journal CELL this week, researchers from Cedars-Sinai show that the peculiar creeping activity of the fat appears to initially be protective but then ends up doing more harm than good.

"Creeping fat is often a landmark for surgeons performing resections on an IBD patient's bowels because they know when they see it, that's likely where the lesions are located," said Suzanne Devkota, PhD, principal investigator and lead author of the study. "But we don't know whether the presence of the fat is making the disease worse or trying to protect the intestines from something."

Devkota and a team of investigators performed in-depth molecular examinations of small intestine and fat tissue samples from 11 Crohn's patients who had undergone surgery. Adipose tissue - commonly known as fat -- is more than an energy storehouse. It is a dynamic endocrine tissue full of immune cells that appear to be triggered in certain cases of inflammatory bowel disease.

"We found that the adipose tissue is actually responding to bacteria that have migrated out of the patient's damaged intestines and directly into the fat. We believe the 'creeping' migration of the fat around the intestines is intended to try and plug leaks in the diseased organ to prevent the gut bacteria from getting into the bloodstream," Devkota said.

But the response that begins as protective apparently has no "off" switch. If the bacteria remains in the fat it will continue to migrate to a possible source of the gut bug. But the presence of the fat may be contributing to the development of severe intestinal scarring, or fibrosis, which occurs in 40% of Crohn's patients. Surgical removal of parts of the small bowel is the only option for many of them and it comes with life-changing consequences. Patients with ulcerative colitis, the other most common IBD, do not develop creeping fat.

The data led researchers to a specific microbe responsible for prompting the fat to travel to the small intestine and protectively encase the organ, imperiling its function.

"We identified a pathogen found in the digestive system, Clostridium innocuum, as the microbial invader that triggers the fat to creep over to the small bowel. Also, the structure of this particular infectious agent makes it well-suited for a lipid-rich environment," said David Underhill, PhD, co-investigator on the study and chair of Biomedical Sciences and the Janis and William Wetsman Family Chair in Inflammatory Bowel Disease at Cedars-Sinai.

This research could point the way to new therapeutics, Cedars-Sinai experts say.

"Improving the lives of our IBD patients is the goal of our research. We've identified a specific infectious agent that can trigger a process that makes Crohn's worse. This is a critical step toward the development of therapies that target C. innocuum, allowing us to prevent or minimize the damaging effect of creeping fat," said Stephan R. Targan, MD, director of the F. Widjaja Foundation Inflammatory Bowel and Immunobiology Research Institute at Cedars-Sinai.

###

Research for this study was supported by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases of the National Institutes of Health under award number 1R01DK123446-01 and by the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust.

Investigators from the University of California, San Diego, the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and the University of Chicago contributed to this study.

DISCLOSURES

Research for this study was supported by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases of the National Institutes of Health under award number 1R01DK123446-01 and by the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust.

Cedars-Sinai and Dermot McGovern, MD, have financial interests in Prometheus Biosciences, Inc., a company which has access to the data and specimens in Cedars-Sinai's MIRIAD Biobank (including the data and specimens used in this study). Prometheus Biosciences seeks to develop commercial products.
Cape Cod lifeguards made an extraordinary find last week: the spinal column of a great white shark.

Lifeguards at Newcomb Hollow Beach in Wellfleet came upon the full spine of an unknown marine animal while doing their regular morning beach cleanup on Sept. 24, two days after Hurricane Teddy brought large breaking waves and strong winds to coastal Massachusetts.

After some Google searches and consulting with a few marine scientists, the lifeguards discovered the spinal column likely came from a great white shark, and a pretty large one at that, the Wellfleet Lifeguards group noted in a Facebook post.

Were sorry this guy had to perish, but happy that he (or she) left a little something behind as a message from the past about his (or her) visit, the post said.

The Wellfleet Lifeguards posted multiple images of the spine leaning up against a wooden fence at Newcomb Hollow Beach. The spinal column is roughly 5 feet long, and the largest vertebra measured 3.5 inches in diameter.

We were surprised to find it and excited, the Wellfleet Lifeguards told MassLive. We occasionally do find bones of marine animals and find a lot of interesting things on the beach in general, especially after big storms, but weve never found something like this.

Newcomb Hollow Beach is one of a number of Cape Cod beaches that records many shark sightings in the summer.

The Cape and Islands has seen a busy shark season this year, with dozens of sharks spotted off Wellfleet, Orleans, Truro and other communities during the summer months.

On Race Point Beach in Provincetown, beachgoers captured video of a shark seen swimming within 10 feet of the shore in early September.

More than 100 miles off the coast Harwich Port the previous month, a team of overnight fishers were able to videotape the moment when a whale shark swam up next to their boat. Witnesses described the animal as a gentle giant.

More viciously, a great white was spotted off the coast of Nantucket in August devouring a dead whale.

Weve seen a lot of live sharks in our waters over the past several years, so we know they are around, but we are used to seeing them alive, the Wellfleet Lifeguards said about the spinal column. It was our last week on the beaches so it was a fun way to end the summer.

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Schools no longer have to worry about a federal government shutdown right before the presidential election. And the short-term agreement reached by Congress and the White House to keep the government open includes a provision to make it easier for schools to serve students meals during the pandemic.

But the deal also means Congress has punted on approving spending levels for education for the upcoming budget year, and schools wont know for some time if theyll be getting an increase in federal funding.

The legislation signed by President Donald Trump on Thursday will extend fiscal 2020 funding for the U.S. Department of Education and other agencies through Dec. 11. So we wont know for some time how much money federal education programs like Title I, special education, and grants for charter school expansion will get in fiscal 2021. For many big-ticket federal education programs, the upcoming federal fiscal year impacts funding for the 2021-22 school year.

However, perhaps the biggest news for the education community in the short-term deal addresses the logistical challenges for schools that are feeding children during the pandemic.

The spending dealknown in official Washington jargon as a continuing resolutiongives the U.S. Department of Agriculture the power to waive certain rules for National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs through the end of this school year, and provides additional funding to support such waivers. (The deal allows the department to waive these rules through Sept. 30, 2021.) That gives schools several months more breathing room than what they had before under waivers previously granted by the Agriculture Department.

First authorized in a coronavirus relief bill enacted in mid-March, these waivers have allowed schools to feed schools in non-congregant settings, in order to ensure students can get meals while observing social distancing; let parents pick up meals for their children without those children being present; and permitted schools to provide meals outside of standard serving times, among other things.

Educators, lobbyists, and lawmakers from both parties have highlighted the important role schools have played in making sure students receive meals during the pandemic and resulting economic crisis, and that waivers have been crucial in supporting this work.

In August, Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced the most recent nutrition waiver extensions, which include allowing summer meal service providers to continue feeding students during the school year among other flexibilities. (This was an about-face for Perdue, who several days before this announcement had said they would not be extended.) However, Perdue granted these extensions only through the end of calendar year 2020.

The spending agreement by itself doesnt institute the waivers. But it paves the way for the agriculture secretary to grant them.



Even amidst a health and economic crisis, childhood hunger is solvable, said Lisa Davis, a senior vice president at the nutrition and food advoacy group Share Our Strength, in a statement after House passage of the spending deal earlier this month. This legislation was a critical step to get our nation back on a path to end hunger.

The spending deal covers annual funding, not emergency aid like the kind included in the CARES Act.

Typically, brief government shutdowns that last a matter of days dont have a huge impact on school operations and federal K-12 support. However, not surprisingly, an extended shutdown is a different story. Go here for background on federal government shutdowns and education .

Technically, annual appropriations from Congress only ran through Wednesday, so there was a bit of uncertainty about the prospect of a shutdown before Trump signed the bill a few minutes after midnight on Thursday.

Photo: A server places breakfast out in the cafeteria at Kyrene De Las Lomas Elementary School in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Matt York)

Follow us on Twitter @PoliticsK12 . And follow the Politics K-12 reporters @EvieBlad @Daarel and @AndrewUjifusa .
CX664801A Marketing planning and control

Question Answered

Your Role: You are a consultant working for the company which has developed a new product range. You are to make recommendation regarding the setting of marketing objectives, a culturally aware marketing plan with the use of critical thinking to design monitoring processes

You must acknowledge the source of all evidence collected and justify all of your choices by reference to the evidence, the companys situation, and academic literature - as appropriate.

The Case on which this assignment is based is: Tohu Wines

Tohu Wines is a Maori organization that produces wines from its own and contract vineyards, selling its range both in New Zealand and internationally. Its well established on the market since 1998, producing quality wines that have been acknowledged as such:

Tohu Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2010 wine wins, in 2010, both the Champion Sauvignon Blanc and New Zealand Wine Cellars Spence Brothers Trophy.

With Tohu Wines being a Maori organization, its identity clearly shows in every detail of the organization, from the logo and vision, to the Maori values explicitly presented. Tohu Wines vision is to share our culture, story and values with the world, while the logo is the Maori symbol koru, that refers to nature, growth and life. The organization is committed to being kind to the people and the environment whilst maintaining quality of products and a spiritual connection with the land.

Over the last 5 years Tohu has been doing research into the NZ and International wine market and it was decided to look at introducing a range of organic wines into the market. They went through a rigorous appraisal by BioGro and in early 2019 were able to officially sell organic wine.

Their first bottles of organic wine are now available. Tohu are looking to sell both white wine and red wine over the coming few months and establish an ongoing market for this new market. They will continue with their current range of product from their own and contract vineyards. The organic wine only comes from the vineyards which has been certified.

The international market has just stopped because of the Covid-19 virus and so they are looking at the local market and new ways of distribution to cover this shortfall. The distribution options are:

 Supermarkets

 Specialty Retail Stores

 Business to business  restaurants, bars, clubs, hotels

 Online

Tohu has been a financially successful organisation to date but this has changed with a cancellation of all export orders. Therefore it is important that the new product and markets are successful to overcome the risk of being dependent on one or two key markets.

Using your industry analysis you need to forecast sales for the coming 6 months. The cost of producing organic wine is higher than normal wine despite the savings from less chemical use because it is very labour intensive.

Required:

You must write up your assignment as a report to senior management covering the following areas:

1. Select and describe a Target Market using the segmentation bases to be the subject of some of Tohus marketing activities, justifying your choice by reference to a situation analysis. Incorporate cultural awareness to the NZ market. You do not need to include a situational analysis.

2. Use critical thinking to formulate marketing objectives in relation to the Target Market described, justifying the objective, standards and conditions with reference to the situation analysis and cultural awareness of the NZ market.

3. Use critical thinking to determine a product strategy in respect of the target market, acknowledging the perceptions of the product, the brand, positioning and the product life cycle.

4. Use critical thinking to determine a price strategy for the product range

5. Use critical thinking to discuss a distribution strategy to achieve sales to your target market.

6. Critically analyse a promotional strategy and say how and when you would promote the brand/products during the next six month period.

7. Produce a programme, schedule and budget to promote the products for the next six month period

8. Critically analyse the monitoring processes and procedures you will put in place to ensure that the objective is achieved.
Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (Dafza) has announced the signing of a MoU with Federation Israeli Chambers of Commerce (FICC) to define frameworks for bilateral cooperation between the two sides in the field of encouraging and supporting Israeli companies to establish their businesses and take advantage of commercial and investment opportunities and incentives.

They were presented by the Dafza during a virtual ceremony held remotely, in the presence of Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Director General of the Dafza, and Uriel Lynn, President of the FICC.

Through the memorandum, Dafza will promote Dubai as a global trade center offering a stimulating business environment for Israeli firms to introduce them to the nature of business and investment opportunities.

Dafza will be providing the companies of the FICC with incentive offers to establish businesses and integrated services in this context, by supporting startups, as Israel is the second incubator for emerging companies in the world in addition to e-commerce companies that will benefit from the free zone specialised in e-commerce - Dubai Commercity, which will enable them to gain access to the different e-commerce system in the emirate with competitive incentives agreed upon by both sides.

Also, the two parties will cooperate in the field of exchanging information and experiences to achieve common goals, in a way that contributes to introducing the companies of the two countries to the vital business environment for establishing and developing their business, in addition to promoting the services and facilities provided by Dafza and FICC.

Dr Al Zarooni affirmed that this agreement reinforces the commitment of Dafza as a vital tributary to the growth of the UAE economy in general and the emirate in particular, given its position as a global destination for business growth and prosperity and a vital engine for the economy of Dubai.

"Dafza enjoys a strategic location that makes it a gateway to Asian markets, as it will redirect trade movement smoothly, faster and more efficiently to those markets through the emirate of Dubai, which provides important commercial opportunities for Israeli companies," he added.

The Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority seeks to attract more foreign investments and support them, as this agreement emphasizes the role of Dafza in encouraging companies from various sectors to launch and expand their business in Dubai by providing all facilities, competitive incentives, and other services that reflect Dubai's leadership in the business scene at the regional and global level.

Lynn said: "The signing of the agreement with Dafza is a historic event that will go down in history as an example what can be achieved in our world if 2 countries are bent on creating more prosperity for their people."

"It will be a mutually advantageous for Dubai and the Israeli business community, as more business will utilize the developed facilities and services in Dafza, and create a bridgehead for Israeli business for enhancing its foreign trade in products and services. The message of peace will take a form of working together for the people of both countries," stated Lynn.

In 2019 machinery and electrical and electronic equipment ranked first with 55% of the total foreign trade in 2019, with a value of AED37.4 billion for imports and AED53 billion for exports and re-exports.

This was an increase of 14.3% or AED11.3 billion in Dafzas total trade. Precious stones and metals followed this with 38% of the total import value at AED29.6 billion and AED32 billion in exports and re-exports, he added.-TradeArabia News Service
There are few takers for the Covid-19 facility dedicated to test people for non-medical reasons -- work or travel that required a negative certificate -- in Gurugram.

On September 19, the Haryana government had directed districts to set up such centres to reduce the burden on labs after it had removed the requirement for a doctors prescription for a test. These centres would charge people depending on the type of test -- 1,600 for RT-PCR, 650 for antigen and 250 for antibody tests. Those who sought the test for medical reasons, however, would continue to be tested free of charge.

Since the order, there have been only 220 tests at the centre in Gurugram -- the sector 10 Civil Hospital set up from September 21.

After walk-in tests (without prescription) were introduced, we were getting about 40 people a day who needed a Covid-negative certificate in order to travel or return to work. After we started charging for these kinds of tests, the number of those coming in for non-medical reasons has come down to about 15 to 20, said Anantha K, a senior lab technician with the health department.

The removal of the mandatory prescription rider had resulted in many individuals, in both blue- and white-collar jobs, seeking tests. We also have to keep tests available for people who show symptoms. Not everyone can get tested for free, said Dr Virender Yadav, chief medical officer, Gurugram. The district tested 3355 tests on Thursday, which, officials said, was on target.

Health department officials said that people relied on private laboratories for non-medical tests. This is mainly because private labs offer home visits, and reports are sent to the patients within a day. At Civil Hospital, the reports take longer, about 36 to 48 hours. Most people wanting non-medical tests generally need the results sooner, said a senior medical officer with the health department, seeking anonymity.

There are a total of 12 labs and medical facilities in the district offering tests privately.

Rishabh Rajput, director of Covid-19 and microbiology divisions at Modern Diagnostics, a certified testing lab in Jawahar Nagar, said, Approximately speaking, 80 percent of our clients need RT PCR tests for medical purposes. They have some symptoms or may just generally be feeling unwell. The rest are what the health department is calling non-medical tests.

Experts have viewed the health departments move critically. Dr Rajesh Kumar, an epidemiologist and former head of the department of community medicine at PGIMER, Chandigarh, said, Every single Covid-19 test administered by the government should ideally be free. Allowing people to go back to work is as much a part of the public health response as preventing deaths. If there is a paucity of equipment, you must manufacture or procure more kits. A price barrier will exclude many people who cannot afford the test, even with Haryanas relatively low pricing. When enough tests are available the price should be removed or lowered.

Dr Jai Prakash Sharma, district surveillance officer in Gurugram, added, We have put up notices at all PHCs where tests are being conducted stating that non-medical tests will be chargeable. People do approach us for tests without any signs or symptoms of Covid-19. They are diverted to the facility in Civil Hospital. Maybe they are choosing not to go ahead because of the pricing, or maybe they are heading to private labs. While he was unable to provide specific numbers, Sharma added that of the 220 paid tests conducted since September 21, a large portion were RT PCR tests.

On September 5, the ICMR had issued a revised testing advisory to all states, paving the way for walk-in tests. Prior to this, the ICMRs testing advisory required people to either have flu-like symptoms or come in close contact with an infected person, following which a doctor could issue a prescription for a test. The revised criteria was implemented in Gurugram on September 7, after which the demand for non-medical tests rose, at both private labs and PHCs in the district.
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Many Californians, who last went to school decades ago, are not familiar with critical race theory (CRT), nor do they realize how this ideology is infiltrating the states public school system. To understand what CRT is and its influence on public schools, read the following evidence the California Family Council has collected from recent news accounts and public websites.

Mandated Marxist Teacher Training

A California public school teacher called up the Glenn Beck radio program recently and lamented how she was forced to attend a CRT seminar by school administrators. I did my own research online and I found out [Critical Race Theory] was founded by Karl Marx. Red flag! Red flag! the teacher told Glenn Beck while disguising her voice in fear of retaliation from her union. It states that facts, data, and the scientific method are white concepts. So, if you use facts and data to disprove an argument against a black person or an oppressed person, you are proving you are racist because, again, facts and data are, quote, the result of whiteness.



As evidence, this teacher pointed to a 20-page handout she was given as part of her training titled, How to Talk About Race Packet published by Epoch Education, a education training center in Oakland, California. Almost the entire document is dedicated to promoting CRT theory. Here are a few bullet points on the first page explaining how CRT is a framework that helps us:

Understand racism as endemic to American life

Express skepticism toward dominant legal claims of neutrality, objectivity, color blindness, and meritocracy

Challenge the traditional telling of history and insist on contextual analyses of the law and systems

Express skepticism toward dominant legal claims of neutrality, objectivity, colorblindness, and meritocracy

On page two, teachers were taught about the Permanence of Racism, and Whiteness as Property. The document also included articles about white privilege and how racism will never end. Read the document for yourself.

The organization that provided this training document, Epoch Education, is currently hosting a series of online presentations over the next month titled, What is Critical Race Theory Really? The Epoch Education website has a Resources page with a video titled Challenging How History is Taught. Within this video, Program Specialist Nicole Kukral with San Juan Unified (a district just east of Sacramento) explains how she created an Equity Audit Rubric grounded in Critical Race Theory and how this rubric is being used by California school districts to evaluate social studies curriculum being considered for adoption.

The rubic tells teachers to evaluate history textbooks in a positive light only if the people telling the history were people of color and other diverse communities. There seems to be no concern regarding whether the history is an accurate description of the important events of the past, only that history told by western white men should be seen as suspect.



Black Lives Matter Curriculum in California Schools

The Black Lives Matter organization, with the help of other advocacy organizations and teachers unions are pressuring California school districts to adopt race and ethic studies curriculum full of the same CRT ideology. The National Education Association website has a map of where Black Lives Matter events or teaching are happening within California schools.

The California Teachers Association has a whole page dedicated to promoting the Black Lives Matter ideology. On it you will find a chart that lists socially acceptable ways white people reveal their covert white supremacy. The list includes: calling police on black people, colorblindness, Eurocentric curriculum, paternalism, the Make America Great Again slogan, claiming reverse racism, and the saying, There is one human race.



If you want to read the BLM curriculum promoted in California schools, read the content yourself at BLM at School. As you peruse the content, you can see how kids will be taught the 13 guiding principles of the BLM movement, which include affirming transgender and queer identities and a commitment to disrupt the Western-prescribed nuclear family structure

A video from 2015, connecting Black Lives Matter (BLM) beliefs to Marxism, has been circulating the internet. It shows BLM co-founder Patrisse Cullors, who describes herself as a queer, artist, author, organizer and college professor, and who founded the organization with another lesbian feminist. On the video she admits BLM founders, like herself, are trained organizers, and trained Marxists, and super versed on ideological theories.



BLM and CTR inspired curriculum could be required in every California public high school if Governor Gavin Newsom signs AB 331, a bill the Wall Street Journal editorial board calls radical indoctrination. Newsom has until September 30 to make a decision. If signed the bill will require every high school student in the state would take a semester ethic studies in order to graduate. The curriculum model posted on the California Department of Educations website says the new course should build new possibilities for post-imperial life that promotes collective narratives of transformative resistance.

According to the WSJ editorial board, this new curriculum is so radical and biased it makes the New York Times 1619 project (a revisionist account of race and the American founding) look moderate and balanced in comparison. Teachers are to provide students with examples of systems of power, which can include economic systems like capitalism and social systems like patriarchy. Students should then be taught the four Is of oppression  ideological, institutional, interpersonal and internalized, WSJ editorial board explains.

Is Critical Race Theory Biblical?

What Would You Say? a project of the Colson Center for Christian Worldview put out a short video several months ago explaining the theorys two primary claims. First, everyone can be divided into two groups: those who have power and those who dont. Second, those who have power always oppress those who dont. Oppressor and oppressed categories are based on which race, gender, sexual orientation, or religion group a person belongs to. White, straight, Christian males are considered the ultimate oppressors, while all other groups are somewhere on the scale of the oppressed.

The video also explains why CRT is not biblical. Some people claim that since Jesus cares about oppression, critical theory and intersectionality should be embraced by Christians. But critical theory and intersectionality are not consistent with Christianity, and here are three reasons why.

First, critical theory offers a different view of humanity than Christianity.

Second, critical theory offers a different view of sin than Christianity

Third, critical theory offers a different view of salvation than Christianity.

Watch the video below to learn more.
Brad Parscale, a senior adviser to President Donald Trump's reelection campaign, has stepped down from his position on Wednesday.

Politico obtained a copy of Parscale's resignation statement. There, he said he was stepping away from the reelection team "for the immediate future."

He said he wanted to focus on his family and get help "dealing with the overwhelming stress." Two sources from CNN also confirmed Parscale's resignation from the reelection campaign team.

The news came days after Parscale was hospitalized. It is said that he threatened to harm himself, reported The Guardian. He was detained over suicidal threats he made at his home while holding a gun.

He was hospitalized on Sunday under the Florida's Baker Act, which allowed anyone deemed to be a threat to themselves and others to be detained for 72 hours for psychiatric evaluation.

Parscale and Wife Deny Physical Abuse

Parscale was also getting pinned for being the cause of several bruises on his wife, Candice's, body. But the accusation was denied by the former Trump aide, according to a police report.

The woman also denied Parscale was being physically abusive towards her in a statement also released on Wednesday.

"The statements I made on Sunday have been misconstrued, let it be clear my husband was not violent towards me that day or any day prior," she said.

At the scene, one of the police detectives noticed the bruises on Candice's arms. The detective also claimed the woman "stated Brad Parscale hit her."

"While speaking with Candice I observed several bruises on both arms, which she advised occurred a few days ago, during a physical altercation with Bradley," the detective said.

She said her husband was suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and had recently become violent, showing her bruises. The bruises were photographed and taken as evidence.

News outlets have already reached out to the Fort Lauderdale Police Department, seeking for an update on the new statement from Parscale's wife.

Parscale and the Trump Reelection Campaign

Parscale was one of Trump's closest political aides. He served as a campaign manager for the reelection run until July.

Then he was demoted after a hyped campaign rally in Tulsa, Oklahoma did not attract a large enough crowd. He was replaced by Bill Stepien, who was then the deputy campaign manager for Trump.

Since he was demoted, Parscale was rarely seen inside the campaign headquarters. But he still kept his senior position in the movement.

As a lauded digital guru, Parscale gained so much praise from the President and his allies. He helped secure Trump's first election bid.

He worked for the Presidential family for years, even way before Trump launched a presidential bid. In June 2016, he was put into a lead role in Trump's campaign data analytics team. He maintained a good name for himself throughout the entire campaign.

In February 2018, he officially took the job in Trump's reelection. But as Election Day drew closer and COVID-19 bent many campaign efforts for Trump, many grew concerned.

The President's allies grew worried that Parscale's inexperience with politics was starting to show.

Previously, a senior adviser said Parscale's hold of his campaign manager role would slip with "only a matter of time."

The Parscales told people that they were suffering from stress brought by the loss of their twins in 2016. Both babies died prematurely.

The couple also complained about the overwhelming scrutiny surrounding Parscale's tenure as campaign manager.

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UW Libraries-Led Project Adds First Set of Wyoming Newspapers to National Database

Rachael Laing, a UW library specialist, digitizes newspaper microfilm in Coe Library as part of the Wyoming Digital Newspaper Project. (UW Photo)

The Wyoming Digital Newspaper Project, led by University of Wyoming Libraries, has added its first batch of historical newspapers to the Chronicling America database.

The Northern Wyoming Herald and Garland Irrigation Era, published from 1911-1924, as well as a portion of the Cheyenne Daily Leader, widely recognized as Wyomings first newspaper, recently became available for anyone to view via the Chronicling America database at https://chroniclingamerica.loc.gov/.

Chronicling America is a free, searchable database of historical American newspapers from 1789-1963. Launched in 2007, Chronicling America is part of the National Digital Newspaper Program (NDNP), a partnership between the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) and the Library of Congress to create a national digital resource of historically significant United States newspapers.

Last year, UW Libraries received a nearly $209,000 grant from NEH to support the Wyoming Digital Newspaper Project over two years. The project involves the digitization of 100,000 pages of Wyoming historical newspapers -- dating from 1863-1963 -- as part of the states participation in the NDNP.

The project began in January after a selection board prioritized newspaper titles late last year.

Despite the pandemic, and thanks to the universitys dedication to maintaining a safe work environment, the project has not faced many setbacks, says Amanda Lehman, a UW assistant librarian and co-project investigator of the NEH grant.

Microfilmed newspapers are gathered from the Wyoming State Archives in Cheyenne. The UW project team duplicates and digitizes them for inclusion in the Chronicling America database.

The next state newspapers to be added to the database are the Platte Valley Lyre, The Saratoga Sun, the Cody Enterprise and the Park County Herald.

UW project team members are Lehman; Bryan Ricupero, an associate librarian and co-project investigator; Rachael Laing, a library specialist, as the project specialist; Samantha Peter, an instructional design librarian, as the project facilitator; and Madison Glenn, from Moorcroft, a student worker on the project.
The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and National Orientation Agency (NOA) have called for concerted efforts among Nigerians to end open defecation by 2025 through the building of toilet facilities.

The Minister, Mr Suleiman Adamu, and the Director-General of NOA, Dr Garba Abari, made the call on Wednesday during a one-day sensitisation campaign in Abakaliki.

The campaign is on Open-Defecation-Free Nigeria for Community Orientation and Mobilization Officers (COMOs) for the thirteen Local Government Areas of the state.

Adamu, who was represented by Mrs Chizoba Opara, the Acting National Coordinator for the Clean Nigeria: use the toilet campaign, said they embarked on the campaign to sensitise COMOs to enable them to come up with an action plan before the end of the exercise.

He also said that the ministry took advantage of NOA's wide reach to get to the urban and rural areas of the state to end the trend.

In this campaign, we expect states to come up with their road maps and targets to end open defecation.

These are sensitisation and awareness that we brought to states for them to understand that we need to be in the race together, Adamu said.

Abari, who was represented by the Deputy Director, NOA, Mrs Theresa Maduekwe, said that realising open defecation free nation by 2025 was possible, if individuals could get involved in the campaign.

He also encouraged the practice of hand washing and wash facilities to be in place, describing the practice as key to good health.

The open defecation free Nigeria 2025 is achievable when everybody is involved and start building toilets at homes and public places.

This practice affects us. Stop the act, build one and use the toilet, Abari said.

Meanwhile, the State Director of the agency, Dr Emma Abah, said that 47 million Nigerians practice open defecation.

Abah said that if nothing was done to end the trend in the next ten years, the number of people who practice the act would increase.

The adverse impact of open defecation can be judged from the fact that one gram of feaces of a person contains 10,000,000 viruses, 1,000,000 bacteria, 1,000 parasite cyst and 100 parasite egg and pathogens.

Our objective is to make the state open defecation free, Abah said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the exercise featured training, technical and interactive sessions with COMOs.

Also, lectures were presented on the health impact of the practice, poor wash and objective of the programme, among others, by resource persons from the ministry and Ebonyi State Rural Water Sanitation Agency.(NAN)
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 1)  The government can no longer divert the 389-million budget to revamp Manila Bay for COVID-19 response or other urgent measures, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said Thursday.

"Nasimulan na po 'yan eh so kinakailangang tapusin na. Ang mga nare-realign ay 'yung mga hindi pa nasisimulang mga proyekto [The project has been started so it should be completed. Funds are only realigned for projects which have not been started]," Roque said in a media briefing in Mariveles, Bataan.

He said the entire amount was spent on the controversial crushed dolomite laid out on a small part of the Manila Bay coastline.

Critics of the bay's cosmetic relief said the project was ill-timed amid the pandemic, especially as it drew thick crowds on the day it was opened to visitors. The overlaying of white sand made of refined dolomite rocks only provided an "aesthetic" solution but offered little help in improving the water quality and the reduction of waste, environment groups added.

Education Secretary Leonor Briones also said that the millions allotted for the beautification would have been used to buy gadgets for students and teachers as they shift to online learning in the new school year beginning October 5.

Vice President Leni Robredo also criticized the initiative as "insensitive,"as the money could have fed 80,000 families left hungry by the pandemic if split into cash aid increments of 5,000.

READ: Duterte hits back at critics of the 'white sand' overlaying at Manila Bay

"It's actually for the entire program of government in rehabilitating Manila Bay. Itong project na ito [This project] was proposed two years ago, included in last year's budget and only being implemented now," Roque added.

The Bayanihan law granted President Rodrigo Duterte the power to realign allocations under the 2019 and 2020 budgets to free up funds for coronavirus response, on top of additional borrowing to boost available cash. Some infrastructure projects which were stalled had their budgetary requirements slashed this year to be continued and funded under the 2021 spending plan, which Senator Ping Lacson found to be problematic.

The government has spent 389.22 billion for COVID-19 response as of September 14, data from the Budget Department showed, with 266.5 billion drawn from discontinued projects under the current and past year's budget.

READ: PH debt to hit over 10T by December

The Bayanihan to Heal as One Act, which took effect in March, allowed Duterte to discontinue programs, projects, or activity of any agency or state-run company if the allotments remain "unobligated" to be converted into emergency spending for the pandemic.

Earlier, Roque said the "white sand" view could help improve mental health and distract people from the crisis, which has infected over 300,000 people in the country and led to 5,000 deaths.

At the Senate, lawmakers questioned why the Department of the Interior and Local Government is given a 54 million budget for the Manila Bay cleanup. Secretary Eduardo Ano said the amount was for "monitoring, evaluating and ensuring compliance" of local government units on the rehabilitation plan, which spans Metro Manila, Central Luzon, and Calabarzon.

The funds include "rewards" to local governments able to comply with requirements set by the agency. "Before the pandemic, every week talagang we are there cleaning up the Manila Bay including areas adjacent to it," Ano added.

READ: Marine scientists explain why dolomite sand won't help solve Manila Bay's environmental mess
London: UK Prime Minister Boris Johnsons father was caught shopping without a mask, after the incumbent government doubled fines for not donning one in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, it was reported on Thursday.

Stanley Johnson was photographed on Tuesday at a newspaper shop, without a face covering, the Metro newspaper reported.

Face coverings were made compulsory in shops and public transport since July 24. Last week fines for first time offenders who fail to wear a face covering increased to 200 pounds as part of a series of curbs imposed in order to prevent a second lockdown.

Following the revelation, Stanley Johnson told the Mirror newspaper thathe may not be 100 per cent up to speed" with current rules as he had just returned to England after three weeks abroad.

Im extremely sorry for the slip up and I would urge absolutely everybody to do everything they can to make sure they do follow the rules about masks and social distancing

The fact this was my first day back in the UK after three weeks abroad is, I am sure, no excuse for not knowing the rules," he was quoted as saying.

On Wednesday, the Prime Minister again urged the public to follow the incumbent guidelines and reiterated warnings that tougher restrictions could be introduced if current measures did not help curb the spread of the virus.

The Metro newspaper report said that this wasnt the first time the Prime Ministers father has made headlines.

In July he defended his decision to travel to Greece in an apparent breach of Foreign Office guidance to avoid non-essential travel.

In April, he admitted breaking lockdown rules when he went out to buy a newspaper after his grandchild was born.

He had hinted in March that he would ignore the governments advice and visit a pub.
She wrote a unanimous three-judge panel decision in 2019 making it easier for men alleged to have committed sexual assaults on campus to challenge the proceedings against them. And she was in dissent in June when her two colleagues on a 7th Circuit panel put on hold, just in Chicago, the Trump administration policy that could jeopardize permanent resident status for immigrants to use food stamps, Medicaid and housing vouchers.
Opposition supporters parade through the streets during a rally to protest the country's presidential inauguration in Minsk

A Belarusian pro-democracy campaigner, an imprisoned Iranian human rights lawyer, a US civil rights attorney, and a Nicaraguan activist on Thursday won a top Swedish honour sometimes called "the alternative Nobel Prize.

Ales Bialiatski of Belarus and his NGO Viasna, Nasrin Sotoudeh of Iran, Bryan Stevenson of the United States and indigenous rights and environmental activist Lottie Cunningham Wren of Nicaragua share the Right Livelihood Award.

Ole von Uexkull, Executive Director of the Right Livelihood Foundation, said this year's laureates were united in their "fight for equality, democracy, justice and freedom."

"Defying unjust legal systems and dictatorial political regimes, they successfully strengthen human rights, empower civil societies and denounce institutional abuses," von Uexkull said in a statement.

Bialiatski and Viasna were awarded "for their resolute struggle for the realisation of democracy and human rights in Belarus."

Viasna, which translates to Spring, was founded by Bialiatski in 1996 in response to the repression of demonstrations by the government of president Alexander Lukashenko.

Following the disputed re-election of Lukashenko this year, Belarus is once again seeing widespread protests, with calls for his resignation amid accusations of a rigged vote.

Over the past month riot police have detained thousands of protesters who have allegedly been tortured and abused in custody, prompting international condemnation and proposed EU sanctions.

- US 'historic trauma' -

Human rights lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh was in turn selected "for her fearless activism, at great personal risk, to promote political freedoms and human rights in Iran."

Sotoudeh, who is currently serving a 12-year sentence after she defended women arrested for protesting compulsory hijab laws, rose to prominence when she represented dissidents arrested during mass protests in 2009 against the disputed re-election of the ultra-conservative president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.

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US civil rights lawyer Bryan Stevenson was honoured "for his inspiring endeavour to reform the US criminal justice system and advance racial reconciliation in the face of historic trauma."

The death of George Floyd in police custody in the US state of Minnesota in May triggered nationwide protests that have drawn the world's attention to the disproportionate number of black people killed and jailed in the US criminal justice system.

The fourth laureate, Lottie Cunningham Wren, was highlighted "for her ceaseless dedication to the protection of indigenous lands and communities from exploitation and plunder."

The Right Livelihood Award was created in 1980 by Swedish-German philatelist Jakob von Uexkull after the Nobel Foundation behind the Nobel Prizes refused to create awards honouring efforts in the fields of the environment and international development.

The award consists of a cash prize of one million Swedish kronor ($111,000 or 95,000 euro) for each laureate, meant to support the recipient's work.

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Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler speaks to the media at City Hall in Portland, Ore., on Aug. 30, 2020. (Nathan Howard/Getty Images)

Feds Reject Portland Mayors Request to End Deputization of Police Officers

Federal officials on Sept. 30 rejected a request by Portlands mayor Ted Wheeler to cancel the deputization of local law enforcement officers.

Law enforcement and law-abiding citizens of Portland have endured months of nightly criminal violence and destruction, Billy Williams, U.S. attorney for the District of Oregon, and Ross Burger, U.S. marshal for the District of Oregon, said in a joint statement.

Officers have been repeatedly assaulted with bottles, bats, sledgehammers, lasers, rocks, and other weapons of convenience. In addition, the public has seen repeated efforts by criminals to burn down public buildings.

The deputization of Oregon state police officers, Multnomah County Sheriffs deputies, and Portland police officers underscores the importance of providing accountability and deterrence for these criminal acts, they added. Importantly, the federal deputation supports front line law enforcement officers and their families in a way they have not seen from City Hall.

Fifty-six officersa mix of officers, sergeants, and lieutenantswere deputized on Saturday, a Portland Police Bureau spokesman told The Epoch Times via email this week.

He was unsure why the deputation was only going to last until the end of the year because typical deputatizations are good for a year. The deputation means some of those arrested by the deputized law enforcement can be charged federally.

Portland police disperse a crowd of protesters in Portland, Ore., on Sept. 26, 2020. (Nathan Howard/Getty Images)

The deputization has nothing to do with Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt, who announced in August that some people arrested during protests would not be charged, the spokesman added.

In a statement over the weekend, Oregon State Police Superintendent Travis Hampton said that Portland officers have been responding to protests for months, sustaining injuries and encountering unspeakable violence.

If I am to send them into harms way this weekend, on my authority, Im going to ensure they have all the protections and authority of an OSP Trooper, he said, adding: I want violent individuals thinking about the enhanced penalties they may face if they harm a Portland Police Bureau Officer.

State troopers were deputized when they were sent back to Portland weeks ago to deal with ongoing unrest, an Oregon State Police spokesman told The Epoch Times previously.

The county sheriffs office said the deputizations would let federal prosecutors charge anyone accused of assaulting the new deputies.

The deputization took place shortly before a unified force of city, county, and state officers spread to portions of Portland to try to prevent violent acts from occurring during a planned rally held by the rightwing Proud Boys group and a counter-demonstration. They were largely successful.

Later that night, officers arrested dozens at a Black Lives Matter demonstration.

The unified command was established by Gov. Kate Brown, a Democrat who declared an emergency ahead of the rally and counter-demonstration. The order was rescinded on Sunday morning.

Oregon State Troopers and Portland police advance through tear gas while confronting rioters in Portland, Ore., on Sept. 5, 2020. (Nathan Howard/Getty Images)

Wheeler, who also serves as police commissioner, said Tuesday he was withdrawing consent for the deputization of police officers.

Portland is fortunate the Governor and the Multnomah County Sheriff helped protect public safety this weekend, including by federally deputizing some Portland Police officers. Now that Governor Browns executive order has expired, Ive asked the U.S. Attorneys office to withdraw the designation, he said in a statement.

A key feature of the designation is that anyone who assaults a federally deputized official could be subject to federal charges. Fortunately, I am confident the Multnomah County District Attorney will continue to prosecute anyone who assaults or otherwise harms police officers or others. I take assaults against our officers seriously and so does the district attorney. We need to end the violence. Anyone engaging in illegal violent behavior, regardless of their beliefs or position, must be held accountable.

Before the rejection by the federal officers of Wheelers request, Hampton said he supported keeping the deputization in place, pointing to the months of protests and rioting thats taken place.

Night after night, violent opportunists seek to provoke officers by marching on their places of work or private property associated with their agency. Officers are fatigued and injured, while the city suffers the injustice of hundreds of service calls going unanswered nightly, he said in a statement.

These officers, no matter their agency designation, [are] assigned to this work by their respective government leaders. As leaders, it is reckless and irresponsible of us to send our officers out each night to enforce the very laws and provisions we hold dear, without the tools to protect themselves and others. Having the accountability measures in place, like federal designation as a U.S. Marshal, is a responsible protection to the men and women that are serving our communities.

Troopers wouldnt serve Portland if they were needlessly endangered, he said, urging Williams, Oregons U.S. attorney, to leave this measure of accountability in place for all agency crowd control units serving in Portland, so violent offenders that harm police officers will face the maximum consequence afforded by Oregon and Federal law.
Captain Amarinder Singh

Chandigarh: Amid declining Covid cases and deaths, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Thursday ordered a slew of relaxations, including lifting of night curfew and end to Sunday lockdown, while directing the DGP to strictly enforce wearing of masks and other safety norms.

Among the relaxations announced by the Chief Minister are increasing the limit for marriage functions and funerals to 100 in the state, in line with the Government of India guidelines, as well as easing the limit of three persons in a car and 50% capacity in buses, subject to the condition of windows being open.

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Captain Amarinder SinghCaptain Amarinder Singh, however, has directed DGP Dinkar Gupta to ensure strict adherence to Covid protocols, with immediate action against those violating the mandatory masks condition.

There should be no laxity, especially in view of the ongoing Paddy procurement operations and the forthcoming festival season, he said.

On the issue of reopening of schools and educational institutions, which the Centre had left to the states to decide post October 15 under Unlock 5.0, the final decision will be announced after due deliberations between the Home Secretary and the Education Department.

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SchoolsDuring a virtual meeting to review the Covid situation in the state, the Chief Minister took note of the decline in the rising cases/deaths trend and said the restrictions imposed earlier by the state government had helped.

However, he expressed concern over the increase in cases in rural areas, even though numbers in cities/towns were going down.

Captain Amarinder also directed Chief Secretary Vini Mahajan to look into arranging for provision of Vitamins etc to poor Covid patients discharged from hospitals.

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In a brief presentation earlier, the states expert health committee head, Dr KK Talwar, said the positivity rate in the state had come down from 10.85% on September 14 to 5.12% on September 28.

Vini Mahajan

The number of deaths and patients on ventilators had also shown a decline during this period, he said. The states Covid death rate currently stands at 2.9%, with deaths per million at 112.5%. The recovery rate has gone up to 82.1%.

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Health Minister Balbir Sidhu underlined the need for motivation of doctors and other medical staff to keep the situation under control.

Health Secretary Hussan Lal shared details of the current situation in government and private hospitals etc, while Dr D.K. Tiwari, Secretary Medical Education & Research disclosed that 54 Covid patients had been given plasma donation at the three GMCs so far.
ORANGE  A pediatrician who authorities say acting outside the scope of his medical practice when he prescribed two people Oxycodone will serve six months in federal prison, officials said.

A judge on Tuesday sentenced 57-year-old Sheikh Ahmed, of Orange, to six months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release.

Court documents indicated that Ahmed, a pediatrician, ran the East Hartford Medical Center practice on Burnside Avenue. But the medical practice didnt just focus on children, federal authorities said.

From December 2017 to May 2018, Ahmed prescribed controlled substances, including Oxycodone, to two people outside the scope of professional medical practice, according to a news release from the office of U.S. Attorney for Connecticut John Durham.

The two individuals paid Ahmed $500 for 30-day supplies of Oxycodone.

Federal authorities said Ahmed agreed to increase the patients dosages in the future, without any discussion about the medical justification for such an increase. Instead, authorities said, he counseled the patients about the need to gradually up dosages to avoid any potential scrutiny from the pharmacies.

Ahmed also had the patients bypass normal financial intake procedures and took cash payments directly from the patients, the news release said. Ahmed failed to perform sufficient examinations to assess the patients pain levels prior to issuing the prescriptions.

Investigators also found that Ahmed failed to pay $117,893 in employee withholding taxes to the Internal Revenue Service from five of his businesses, including the East Hartford Medical Center, from 2013 to 2016.

He was arrested on Nov. 28, 2018. He pleaded guilty on Nov. 8, 2019, to prescribing outside the scope of medical practice and willful failure to pay withholding taxes.

Ahmed has paid full restitution to the IRS, federal authorities said.

He was released on a $200,000 bond and told to report to prison on Nov. 10.
A farm in the Scottish Borders has been crowned winner of a major industry award for its strong commitment to sustainable self-reliance and biodiversity.

Peelham Farm in Berwickshire has been awarded the Innovation in Farming Award at the national Helping it Happen Awards, now in its fourth year.

The event has become established in recognising the role of farms, estates and individuals who are helping rural Scotland thrive.

The judging panel felt Peelham was a great example of a farm that is constantly innovating, with a large emphasis on sustainability and the environment.

Peelham is a family run organic farming and food production enterprise based on 670 acres in the Scottish Borders.

In its organic on-farm butchery, smoker and charcuterie facility it produces grass-fed organic beef, grass-fed organic veal, grass-fed organic lamb, grass-fed organic mutton and free-range organic pork alongside salamis, sausages, burgers, bacon and hams which is supplied direct to the consumer.

No pesticides, herbicides or petro-chemical fertilisers are used and biodiversity on the farm is encouraged.

Peelham beat off stiff competition from Seawater Solutions based in South Ayrshire which turns coastal farmland into wetland ecosystems.

Sarah-Jane Laing, chief executive of Scottish Land & Estates, said: The judges had a really tough time deciding who should be crowned winner but Peelhams continuous innovation shone through.

"All the Helping it Happen Award winners have made a considerable contribution in their own way to rural Scotland.

"This contribution is crucial to ensure that Scotland has a successful recovery from the Covid pandemic.

Who are the 2020 winners?

 Conservation Award, sponsored by Anderson Strathern: Borders Bird Box for their innovative and effective conservation concept which has made a difference.

 Enhancing our Environment, sponsored by NatureScot: East Lothian Countryside Volunteers for an example of landowners and volunteers working together to enhance the environment.

 Rural Business Award, sponsored by Velux: Fasque Forestry for their innovative, holistic and diversified approach which has resulted in job creation and further ambition for growth.

 Innovation in Farming, sponsored by Douglas Holme & Co: Peelham Farm for constantly innovating, with a strong commitment to sustainable self-reliance and biodiversity.

 Education Award, sponsored by Bell Ingram: Duffus Estate for facilitating an outdoor learning initiative to enable opportunities for sustainable education within a rural context.

 Iver Salvesen Green Business Award: MiAlgae for their an innovative and creative business which crucially aims to reduce the human impact on the planet.
narvikk/iStockBy ARIELLE MITROPOULOS, ABC News



(WASHINGTON) -- Amid the coronavirus pandemic, health care experts have been urging Americans to get vaccinated against influenza during the 2020-2021 flu season, to prevent a "twindemic," overlapping epidemics of the flu and COVID-19, which could overwhelm hospitals and increase people's risk of death.



During the annual Influenza/Pneumococcal Disease news conference on Thursday, hosted by the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, public health experts, including Dr. Anthony Fauci, urged the public to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendation for everyone to get vaccinated against flu.



"Everybody, 6 months of age or older, should get an annual flu vaccine," asserted Fauci.



"Influenza, all by itself, is a profoundly serious viral infection, which causes hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations each year, with the major complication being pneumonia, and many thousands of deaths," Dr. William Schaffner, professor of preventive medicine and infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, told ABC News.



Only 48% of U.S. adults were vaccinated against the flu during 2019-2020, leading to 38 million flu illnesses, 18 million flu-associated medical visits, 400,000 flu hospitalizations and 22,000 flu deaths, according to CDC estimates.



"We're at greatest risk of becoming seriously ill," Fauci said during the conference. "It's our personal responsibility to protect ourselves. But we also have a responsibility to protect the vulnerable around us, including young children, pregnant women, adults, 65 years of age or older and those with underlying chronic health conditions."



"First, get vaccinated," he continued, "and take everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs."



Vaccine hesitation is a major public health issue in America, but vaccines are the most effective tool in combating infectious diseases. Last year, the flu vaccine prevented 7.5 million flu illnesses, 3.7 million flu-associated medical visits, 105,000 flu hospitalizations and 6,300 flu deaths, according to the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases.



"Each year, we show that people who are vaccinated, and run the risk of getting influenza, are less likely to have to go to the emergency room, less likely to be hospitalized, less likely to be admitted to the intensive care unit. And they're less likely to die," Schaffner said.



Despite these statistics, a new survey, released Thursday by the NFID, reveals that only 59% of U.S. adults said they planned to get vaccinated against influenza during the 2020-2021 flu season. Fifteen percent stated they were not sure, while 22% who are at high risk for flu-related complications (such as adults age 65 years and older, smokers, those with diabetes, asthma, heart disease or kidney disease) said they were not planning to get vaccinated.



These low numbers are alarming for public health officials, with U.S. hospitals bracing themselves for a potential surge of seriously ill influenza and COVID-19 patients.



"Now more than ever, flu vaccination is critical to not only protect individuals and communities, but also to reduce the burden of flu on our health care system as we continue to fight the COVID-19 pandemic," said Marla Dalton, NFID's executive director and chief executive officer.



Indeed, 46% of U.S. adults are concerned about co-infections, according to the survey, with 28% reporting that the COVID-19 pandemic makes them more likely to get vaccinated against the flu this year.



"The scary reality is that we could face a twindemic of COVID-19," said Schaffner. And it will be hard for physicians and other health care providers to tell the difference between the diseases, based on symptoms alone.



There have been some reports of overlapping cases of influenza and COVID-19, said Schaffner, but there is not enough data about it yet. However, "patients in which this has been reported have often been hospitalized. So, if you get a dual infection, you will be more seriously ill. Who wants to be hit with two respiratory viruses simultaneously?"



Cardiologist Dr. Frederico Asch, of the American College of Cardiology, noted that this year he is particularly worried about older adults, and those with chronic health conditions, who are at higher risk of complications from both the flu and COVID-19.



In recent years, adults aged 65 years and older accounted for between 50% to 70% of flu-related hospitalization



Last year, nearly 93% of U.S. adults hospitalized for flu-related complications had at least one underlying medical condition, said Asch. "Having worked in the cardiac intensive care unit for many years, I have seen some of the worst complications of flu, including myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle, which can result in heart failure and abnormal rhythms," he said.



According to the CDC, the vaccination rate among adults 18 to 49 years old with at least one of chronic health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity and chronic lung disease, was only 44% during the previous flu season.



"Flu can exacerbate underlying conditions and lead to life-threatening complications, like heart attack, stroke, permanent physical decline, pneumonia, hospitalizations. Adults with heart disease are at six times increased risk of having a heart attack within seven days of a flu infection," said Asch.



Vaccines have been shown to lower rates of cardiac arrest in people with heart disease, and to reduce admissions for stroke or heart failure, while reducing death rates in adults with Type 2 diabetes.



Further, racial disparities continue to affect flu vaccination rates. White individuals had higher flu vaccine coverage at 55%, compared to Black (46%) and Hispanic (47%) individuals. Although Black adults are more worried about co-infection with COVID-19 and flu than white and Hispanic adults, nearly 62% said they were not sure, or did not plan to get a flu vaccine this year, according to the survey.



"We need to increase the number of people getting vaccinated and focus especially on communities of color, which often bear a disproportionate burden of serious flu illness," said Daniel B. Jernigan, director of the Influenza Division in the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases at the CDC.



In addition, for children, "we know that flu vaccination is critical, because it can significantly reduce a child's risk of death," said Dr. Patricia Whitley-Williams, professor of pediatrics, and chief of the Division of Pediatric Allergy, Immunology and Infectious Diseases at the Robert Wood Johnson Medical School at Rutgers University.



"This year in particular, we need to continue to focus on increasing vaccination rates among children and those who are at higher risk of severe complications from flu and COVID-19, including Black and Hispanic populations," she said.



During the 2019-2020 flu season, 188 children in the U.S. died of flu-related causes, according to Whitley-Williams.



There is hope, if we look at countries like Australia and New Zealand, said Schaffner. They are reporting a significantly lower number of flu cases this year, which they attribute to "more influenza vaccines than they have ever had," in addition to compliance with social distancing and mask wearing.



"I would hope we could promote that here," Schaffner said. "But here, we don't have the acceptance of vaccines that we would like, and we certainly don't have a complete commitment on the part of our population to wearing masks. So, I don't think we're going to have quite the advantages of the Aussies. But, nonetheless, we're out there trying to get as much flu vaccine used as possible."



Copyright  2020, ABC Audio. All rights reserved.
FRANKFORT, Ky. - A Kansas man was indicted Thursday on charges that he made a threat over the Breonna Taylor investigation during a phone call to the Kentucky attorney generals office, a federal prosecutors office said.

Wesley Forrest Clay, 29, of Olathe, Kansas, was accused of calling a phone line in Frankfort dedicated to the Taylor investigation.

On the call, he stated his name, telephone number, and then said among other things, You will die if you do not give Breonna Taylor justice. That is a threat. Try me, the U.S. attorneys office for the Western District of Kentucky said in a news release.

A criminal complaint in the case alleged the call was made on Sept. 23, the release said, the same day Attorney General Daniel Cameron announced that a grand jury indicted a former police officer on three counts of wanton endangerment for shooting into a home next to Taylors.

No one was charged in the March 13 death of Taylor, a Black woman who was shot multiple times by police who burst into her apartment during a drug raid.

While there were no drugs in Taylors apartment, her boyfriend shot and wounded a police officer. Cameron said the officers shots that killed Taylor were fired in self-defence.

Her death has sparked months of protest in Louisville and other cities.

Clay was charged with sending threatening communications in interstate commerce, the U.S. attorneys office said in a news release. If convicted, he could face up to five years in prison.

It wasnt immediately known if Clay had an attorney who could comment for him.
Cant stop bingeing Open Door? Youre not alone. The thrill of seeing an acquaintances apartment for the first time, scanning the spines of your Airbnb hosts book collection, watching an influencers closet tourcatching a glimpse of someones private space reveals new elements about them. Exploring why we sometimes feel the need to rifle through others bathroom cabinets, sociologist Jeanne Curran was quoted in an article from the Los Angeles Times saying, A medicine cabinet contains objects, and we have a weird faith in objective reality. In every corner, drawer, and closet of a home, there are truths to be interpreted through the objects they hold. Or, alternatively, we might project what we think it says about ourselves and how we choose to live.

Shelter magazines first became popularized in the late 19th century, and many began as architectural journals and eventually morphed into interior designfocused publications, making them more consumer-friendly. Despite the fact that they highlight the homes of celebrities and well-off strangers, theyve long reflected the sociopolitical shifts in our rapidly changing world through design and trend forecastingfrom adopting livable modernism during the Great Depression to the romanticization of suburbia during the white flight of the 1950s and 60s.

While we look to house tours in magazines and on Instagram for celebrity info and inspiration for our own homes, theres a lot about ourselves that we can project onto design. Where do we come from? What give us comfort? What do we value most?

Questions of home reach deep into our sense of belonging on the planet. How we design our living spaces, and the extent of our ability to do so, speaks volumes about our sense of self-worth and our value in relation to others, says environmental psychologist Adeola Enigbokan. The interest in looking at pictures of home design goes beyond escapism. It touches people's experiences of immigration and asylum, exclusion because of gender or sexual identity, rising and falling in class, fear of living alone for the first time after a divorce, and so on.

We all want to know how other people live, says Genevieve Garruppo, an interior-design photographer. People are excited to be a voyeur and to look at some design in total amazement, but theyre also looking to see themselvesor who they could be. Not necessarily in an aspirational way, because good design isnt always about being able to afford the most expensive things: Its about making your personal space feel like an idealized version of yourself.

Originally Appeared on Architectural Digest
He stepped away from the spotlight to focus on his own endeavors.

But Kim Kardashian made sure to show a little love to her baby brother with a throwback snap shared to Instagram on Thursday.

The 39-year-old social media star joked that it was a time when the siblings 'were cool' in the sweet family photo.

Kim Kardashian made sure to show a little love to her baby brother with a throwback snap shared to Instagram on Thursday

Rob pointed his finger at Kim while she flashed a smile with her signature glam makeup shining bright for the camera.

Earlier in the week, Rob took to Twitter to share a sweet photo of his three-year-old daughter Dream with ex Blac Chyna.

He used a few heart emojis and simply captioned the snap: 'I Love You.'

Dad mode: Earlier in the week, Rob took to Twitter to share a sweet photo of his three-year-old daughter Dream

The 33-year-old entrepreneur used his platform for a more serious note and addressed the rising military conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

'In the fog of the pandemic & global crises, #Armenians in #Artsakh have been the victims of unprovoked attacks by #Azerbaijan,' he wrote.

Artsakh, also known as Nagorno-Karabakh, is a disputed region between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

'We appeal to the international community to continue to condemn these attacks. From the highest levels of leadership, we know Armenia & Artsakh want peace. Anything else you read is disingenuous & false.'

Talk about it: The 33-year-old entrepreneur used his platform for a more serious note and addressed the rising military conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan

Sister Khloe also shared some information to her followers while asking fans to call representatives and support the #ArstakhStrong campaign.

Although it is recognized as part of Azerbaijan by the international community, it's ruled by an independent government and is primarily comprised of ethnic Armenians.

Dozens of Azerbaijani and Armenian service members have been killed in the rising conflict.

On Thursday, Emmanuel Macron, Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump released a joint statement calling for a cease fire and condemning 'in the strongest terms the recent escalation of violence along the Line of Contact in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone.'
The designer George Nakashima was fond of saying that he kept some pieces of wood in his studio for long periods of time, and it would only be after 10 years that it would occur to him what to do with them, recalls his nephew, John Nakashima.

Georges bewitchingly elegant wooden furniture, which emphasizes the unique shape, spirit, and peculiarities of it material, is now a cornerstone of 20th-century design, but as John details in his new documentary, George Nakashima: Woodworker, his uncle came to his profession, and his artistic sensibility, only after similarly prolonged deliberation in his 30s. He just didnt happen into his career, John says. He decided that he was going to find a reason to create.

Photo: Courtesy of the George Nakashima Foundation for Peace

The illuminating film, tenderly narrated by John, a producer for West Virginia Public Broadcasting, will have its premiere run from Friday evening through Sunday on Design Miamis website. It follows the future icon from his birth to first-generation Japanese immigrants in Spokane, Washington, in 1905, through his architecture studies at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and on to his travel, beginning in 1931, via an around-the-world steamship ticket.

Photo: Courtesy of George Nakashima Woodworkers

George encountered modernism in France and marveled at the communal efforts that forged its grand Gothic churches. We have these trillions of dollars of gross national project, but we couldnt begin to put up the cathedral of Chartres, he said in an interview recorded late in his life. (He died in 1990, at age 85.) In Japan, Nakashima immersed himself in Shinto beliefs, met his future wife, Marion Okajima, and worked with onetime Frank Lloyd Wright employee Antonin Raymond.

Raymonds Golconde Dormitorythe first reinforced concrete structure in Indiafor Sri Aurobindos ashram took Nakashima to Pondicherry in the 1930s. While there, he began constructing furniture, became a disciple of the guru, and saw that life, the act of creating, and spirituality can all be one, John says in the film.

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Photo: Courtesy of George Nakashima Woodworkers

Shortly after returning to the United States, the shameful internment of Japanese Americans occasioned another breakthrough for Nakashima; imprisoned in an Idaho camp in 1942 with his wife and their infant daughter, Mira, he studied with an expert carpenter, Gentaro Hikogawa. He concentrates on it in such an intense way it almost hurts, George said of the masters drive. In 1943, Raymond, now living in New Hope, Pennsylvania, secured the release of George, Marion, and Mira, though many of their close relatives remained detained. George bought land in the town, which is about an hour outside of Philadelphia, and started building a home and studio.

Today that estate houses George Nakashima Woodworkers, headed by Mira Nakashima, who worked closely with him and oversees the production of his designs. The whole making of the film was a process of discovery for both of us, says Mira, since she was researching a book on her father, who didnt talk much, at the same time John was starting out.

For dealer and Nakashima expert Robert Aibel, who runs Moderne Gallery in Philadelphia, the film presents a chance to experience the designers life journey in fulland a chance to grasp his approach, which Nakashima detailed in his 1981 book, The Soul of a Tree. Despite fame and market demand, there is a very limited understanding of the aesthetics and philosophy of his work, Aibel says. The seeming simplicity of what he made belies its aesthetic complexity.

Photo: Courtesy of the George Nakashima Foundation for Peace

When dad started out, he said it was kind of a derogatory term to call yourself a woodworker, Mira says. But that is what he said he wanted to be. Now many young designers aspire to that title. The film, she believes, will probably inspire a lot of woodworkers.

Originally Appeared on Architectural Digest
A 'beautiful' and 'sweet' schoolgirl who died in a Ballymena house fire has been pictured for the first time.

Brooke Reid McMaster, 12, was trapped and screaming for help as flames ripped through her home in the Northern Ireland town.

Efforts were made to break down the door and try and save the Year 9 Dunclug College pupil but she tragically died at the scene.

A man who was in the house was later taken to hospital for treatment.

Her mother, Martha McMaster, who previously lost another child, told the Ballymena Daily: 'I am totally devastated, I have already buried a child and now I will have to bury another one.'

Brooke Reid McMaster, 12, was trapped and screaming for help as flames ripped through her home in the Northern Ireland town

Efforts were made to break down the door and try and save the Year 9 Dunclug College pupil but she tragically died at the scene

A family friend has set up a GoFundMe page to cover funeral expenses and support the McMaster family, who have also lost their home

Brooke's grandfather Billy McMaster added: 'I am only 59 and I buried my first son and this will be my third grandchild.'

Emergency services were called to the blazing property in the Staffa Drive area of Ballykeel at around 5.50pm on Wednesday evening.

Police attended the scene alongside ambulance and fire and rescue services, but paramedics were unable to save her.

A local councillor described the incident as an 'unspeakable and unimaginable tragedy' while Dunclug College principal Ruth Wilson said staff and pupils recorded 'deep sorrow' at the news.

Meanwhile, a family friend has set up a GoFundMe page to cover funeral expenses and support the McMaster family, who have also lost their home.

Cllr Matthew Armstrong said: 'My deepest sympathies to the family and everyone involved.

'It is an unspeakable and unimaginable tragic event and one in an area that has sadly been no stranger to tragedies in last short period of time.

'Sometimes in all honesty there are no words to express or even to imagine what the family are going through at the minute. I am truly devastated and heartbroken for them all.'

Emergency servies were called to the blazing property in the Staffa Drive area of Ballykeel at around 5.50pm on Wednesday evening

Police attended the scene in the Northern Ireland town alongside ambulance and fire and rescue services

Chief Inspector William Calderwood added: 'Police received a report of the fire at around 5:50pm. Tragically, the girl died at the scene.

'A man who was in the house was taken to hospital for treatment.

'The cause of the fire has not yet been determined and will be subject to investigation, in liaison with the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service.

'There are no further details at this time.'

The incident marked the second death reported in the Ballykeel area of the town on Wednesday after a man's body was discovered at a flat in Crebilly Drive, sparking a murder investigation.
A murder investigation has been launched after two men were found shot dead in Brierley Hill, West Midlands. (PA)

A man has been arrested after two men were shot and killed at an industrial site in the West Midlands, police have said.

The shooting is the third in three days in the area, after a man was seriously injured nearby on Tuesday, and bullets were fired towards a college on Monday.

In the latest shooting two men, who are yet to be formally identified, were found dead in a parked car just before 3.30pm on Wednesday.

It is thought they were killed at industrial units in Brierley Hill, West Midlands, just after 1pm and both were pronounced dead at the scene.

Police said a suspect was detained after a vehicle was stopped in Carnforth, Lancashire, on Thursday morning and has been taken in for questioning.

A police vehicle blocking an entrance to Albion Works industrial estate in Brierley Hill, West Midlands. (PA)

A double murder investigation has been launched and West Midlands Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Detective Chief Inspector Jim Munro from the forces homicide unit said: This is a fast-moving investigation, a real team effort involving officers whove worked around the clock since the discovery of the bodies to trace the person we believe is responsible.

The arrest is a significant development but our inquiries continue and I would appeal to anyone with information about whats happened, or anyone who was in the area at the time and saw or heard anything suspicious, to get in touch.

A resident who did not want to be named said: I heard bangs in the afternoon but theres always loud bangs going on as its a busy work site.

Nobody would bat an eyelid at the sound of a gunshot because us residents would just assume its machinery or something like that.

That is probably why it took so long to find them (the two men) after the shooting. I heard another motorist found them anyway. It must have been awful.

Aerial view of the scene in Dudley as police investigate a double murder. (SWNS)

West Midlands Ambulance Service said they were called to the scene at 3.30pm.

A spokesman said: On arrival, crews discovered two male patients, both of whom were inside a car, it is believed they had been there for some time.

Story continues

Unfortunately, it quickly became apparent nothing could be done to save either of them and they were confirmed dead at the scene.

#BREAKING: Weve launched a double murder investigation after 2 men were found shot dead in a car on an industrial estate.



The men were discovered fatally injured inside a vehicle off Moor Street, Brierley Hill.



We're appealing for witnesses: https://t.co/FGKksOr8sO  West Midlands Police (@WMPolice) October 1, 2020

Read more: Man hit three-month-old babys head against post after cries disturbed video game

The shooting comes a day after a man in his 20s was shot in the arm and neck in nearby Cradley Heath at around 10.30pm.

He was found in a Vauxhall with a smashed-out window in Upper High Street where he is believed to have driven to after being shot elsewhere.

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Bihar BEd CET results 2020: The Lalit Narayan Mithila University, Kameshwaranagar, Darbhanga on Thursday declared the results of Bihar B.Ed. Common Entrance Test (CET) 2020 on its official website.

Candidates who have appeared in the Bihar BEd CET 2020 exam can check their results online at bihar-cetbed-lnmu.in.

The Bihar BEd CET 2020 examination was conducted on September 22, 2020. Earlier on September 24, the university had released the provisional answer key for Bihar BEd CET 2020, and candidates were allowed to raise objections till September 27, 2020.

Direct link to check Bihar BEd CET results 2020

How to check Bihar BEd CET results 2020:

Visit the official website at bihar-cetbed-lnmu.in

On the homepage, click on the Bihar BEd CET 2020 result link

A new page will appear on the display screen

Key in your credentials and login

The Bihar BEd CET results 2020 will be displayed on the screen

Download the result and take its print out for further reference.

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***If you've been affected by this article, you can call stillbirth and neonatal charity, SANDs, on 0808 164 3332 or visit www.sands.org.uk***

***If you've been affected by this article, you can call stillbirth and neonatal charity, SANDs, on 0808 164 3332 or visit www.sands.org.uk***

Gary Barlow sent his condolences to Chrissy Teigen and John Legend on Thursday after learning that they had tragically lost their baby.

The Take That star, 49, whose daughter Poppy was stillborn at full term in 2012, took to Twitter to reach out to the grieving couple after they bravely shared their sad news.

He wrote: 'Sending all my love, strength and best wishes @johnlegend @chrissyteigen no words can make the pain any easier,' followed by a broken heart emoji.

Heartbreaking: Gary Barlow sent his condolences to Chrissy Teigen and John Legend on Thursday after learning that they had tragically lost their baby (pictured in February)

He wrote: 'Sending all my love, strength and best wishes @johnlegend @chrissyteigen no words can make the pain any easier,' followed by a broken heart emoji

Gary and his wife Dawn recently shared an emotional tribute to their late daughter, Poppy, on the eighth anniversary of her death in August.

Poppy was tragically delivered stillborn at full term on August 4 in 2012 just days before Gary had to perform at the closing ceremony of the 2012 Olympics.

Posting a moving picture of himself holding wife Dawn, 50, as they looked out to sea, he penned: 'Thank you for all your kind messages yesterday - we soldier on,' followed by a heartache emoji.

Gary and Dawn have three children together - Daniel, 19, Emily, 18, and Daisy, 11.

Reaching out: The Take That star, 49, whose daughter Poppy was stillborn at full term in 2012, took to Twitter to reach out to the grieving couple after they bravely shared their sad news

Emotional: Gary and his wife Dawn recently shared an emotional tribute to their late daughter, Poppy, on the eighth anniversary of her death in August

Tragic: Poppy was tragically delivered stillborn at full term on August 4 in 2012 just days before Gary had to perform at the closing ceremony of the 2012 Olympics

Chrissy took to social media on Wednesday to reveal that she and husband John had lost their baby, days after she was admitted to the hospital with severe bleeding.

She shared the heartbreaking news with a lengthy post and series of images, saying their little boy, 'Jack', has died following complications.

Chrissy wrote: 'We are shocked and in the kind of deep pain you only hear about, the kind of pain we've never felt before.

'We were never able to stop the bleeding and give our baby the fluids he needed, despite bags and bags of blood transfusions. It just wasn't enough.'

Heart wrenching: Chrissy took to social media on Wednesday to reveal that she and husband John had lost their baby, days after she was admitted to the hospital with severe bleeding

The post included a series of black and white photos taken at the hospital, showing Chrissy crying on her bed as well as a shot showing her and John cradling their son.

As well as Gary, Amanda Holden also reached out to Chrissy after learning that she has tragically lost her baby.

The BGT star, whose son Theo, was stillborn at seven months pregnant in 2011, took to the comments after Chrissy bravely shared her sad news.

One follower had written a lovely post which read: 'In Lebanese culture, we believe babies like Jack are angels that God selectively chooses to watch over you. Sending you light.'

'They are angels that God chooses to look after you': As well as Gary, Amanda Holden, whose son Theo, was stillborn at seven months pregnant in 2011, also reached out to Chrissy

Sharing experiences: Amanda shared the loveliest message after a follower had sent his condolences to Chrissy

Amanda, 49, replied: 'This is how I dealt with my loss.'

The actress recently revealed that Theo's death nine years ago changed her as a person, making her realise how fragile life can be.

Amanda who is also a parent to Alexa, 14, Hollie, eight, with husband Chris Hughes has been very open about her tragic loss.

She previously said about Theo: 'I held him in my arms for the first time and that is when I realised that I was still a mummy even though he was fast asleep.'

On Monday, Chrissy revealed she was on 'serious bed rest' due to bleeding and said she was 'about halfway through', which is around 20 - 24 weeks. A stillbirth is when a baby is born dead at 24 weeks or later.

She revealed she and John, 41, had begun calling their unborn baby boy, 'Jack'.

'We are shocked': Chrissy's post included a series of black and white photos taken at the hospital, showing her crying on her bed as well as a shot showing her and John cradling their son

She continued: 'We never decide on our babies' names until the last possible moment after they're born, just before we leave the hospital.

'But we, for some reason, had started to call this little guy in my belly Jack. So he will always be Jack to us. Jack worked so hard to be a part of our little family, and he will be, forever.

'To our Jack - I'm so sorry that the first few moments of your life were met with so many complications, that we couldn't give you the home you needed to survive. We will always love you.

'Thank you to everyone who has been sending us positive energy, thoughts and prayers. We feel all of your love and truly appreciate you.

'We are so grateful for the life we have, for our wonderful babies Luna and Miles, for all the amazing things weve been able to experience.'

In her words: Teigen also penned a lengthy caption explaining the tragedy and expressing her family's grief

Losing a baby past 24 weeks is a stillbirth rather than a miscarriage. If a baby dies before 24 completed weeks, it's known as a miscarriage or late foetal loss.

Shortly after breaking the tragic news to her followers, Teigen took to her Twitter page to further express her shock from the loss.

'Driving home from the hospital with no baby. How can this be real,' she wrote.

The four photos uploaded to Chrissy's Instagram paint a heartbreaking scene, with one of the pictures showing Chrissy crying and cradling Jack in her arms as John leaned next to them.

She said: 'We never decide on our babies names until the last possible moment after theyre born, just before we leave the hospital. But we, for some reason, had started to call this little guy in my belly Jack'

Another featured Chrissy sobbing as she held her hands to her face and sat at the edge of her hospital bed in nothing but a blanket and a bonnet.

Teigen and Legend had revealed they were expecting their third child together in the music video for John's new single, Wild, in August. It is unclear how far along exactly she was in her pregnancy.

The mother-of-two had been hospitalised at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles on Sunday night after enduring a month of bleeding due to having a weak placenta and had been at the hospital since.

On Monday, she updated fans on her condition in an Instagram post, revealing she had received two blood transfusions and said, 'baby and I are completely fine.'

She said: 'But everyday cant be full of sunshine. On this darkest of days, we will grieve, we will cry our eyes out. But we will hug and love each other harder and get through it'

Disbelief: Shortly after uploading her undeniably sad news to Instagram, Chrissy took to her Twitter page to further express her shock

'Hello from hospital. about to have my second blood transfusion which truly, truly, truly sounds more dramatic than it is,' she said.

'It's an IV, but instead of fluids, the blood of some kind human being out there. Baby and I are completely fine, just missing the little things like walking...cooking...playing with the other buttbutts.'

Teigen had already been on strict bed rest earlier this month but explained she was admitted to the hospital after her bleeding had worsened.

WHAT IS A STILLBIRTH? A stillbirth occurs when a baby is born dead after 24 weeks of pregnancy. If a baby dies before 24 weeks of pregnancy, it is known as a miscarriage. Not all stillbirths can be prevented, however, not smoking or drinking, as well as not sleeping on your back and attending all antenatal appointments can reduce the risk. What are the signs? Signs may include the baby not moving as much as normal. Pregnant women should contact their doctor immediately if they notice a difference to their baby's movement. What are the causes? Stillbirths do not always have an obvious cause but may occur due to complications with the placenta or a birth defect. They are also more likely to occur if women suffer from high blood pressure, diabetes or an infection that affects the baby, such as flu. Stillbirths are more likely to occur if women are having twins or multiple pregnancies, are overweight, smoke, are over 35 or have a pre-existing condition, such as epilepsy. What happens after a stillbirth? If a baby has died, women may wait for their labour to start naturally or they may be induced if their health is at risk. Bereavement support groups are available to parents who have suffered stillbirths. Some find it helpful to name their baby or take pictures with them. Source: NHS Choices Advertisement

Sad: Teigen was hospitalised on Sunday evening after a month of bleeding

'I'm about halfway through pregnancy and the blood has been going on for about a month, maybe a little bit less than a month. We're talking about more than your period girls, it's definitely not spotting. A lot of people spot but it's usually fine. Mine was a lot,' she added.

'Everytime I go to the bathroom it would be blood, and honestly just laying there there would be blood.'

Despite the scare, she assured her fans she and her baby were doing well and said the her son was 'healthy, growing stronger than Luna or Miles.'

'He moves so much, so much earlier than they ever did. I'm so excited for him, he's the strongest little dude. He's the strongest coolest dude in the sh***iest house.'

'So his house is like falling apart. It didn't have a good foundation to begin with, he didn't have the strongest chance at the very, very beginning so all we're doing now is trying to make sure he has a lot of fluid around him and I'm resting as much as possible.'

Teigen and Legend, who wed in 2013, are parents to daughter Luna, four, and son Miles, two.

After Chrissy announced the news, some of the couple's closest friends, like Kim Kardashian and Gabrielle Union, voiced their condolences in the comment section.

'Were always here for you and love you guys so much,' wrote Kim Kardashian, 39, who happens to share four children of her own with husband Kanye West, 43.

Gabrielle Union, 47, made sure that Chrissy and John knew that her family would be there for them during this trying time. 'We love you guys so much and we will be here for whatever yall need. Always,' she commented.

Support: After Chrissy announced the news, some of the couple's closest friends, like Kim Kardashian and Gabrielle Union, voiced their condolences in the comment section

Take away the pain: Jesse Tyler Ferguson, who just became a dad for the first time with husband of seven-years Justin Mikita, 35, said that he wish he could 'take away [Chrissy's] heartbreak'

Paris Hilton, who recently opened up about her own pregnancy plans, said that her 'heart breaks for [Chrissy] and John. 'I am so sorry for your loss. Sending you and your family so much love. Love you beautiful,' wrote the 39-year-old heiress.

Hailey Bieber expressed sympathy for John and Chrissy's unfortunate situation in Chrissy's Instagram comment section.

The 23-year-old model, who is married to Justin Bieber, wrote: 'Im so so sorry. Thinking of you and John, praying for you guys and sending you so much love during this time.'

Channing Tatum let the couple know that he is 'sending so much love to [them] right now,' while Jersey Shore star Snooki informed Chrissy that she is 'praying for [her] and [her] beautiful family.'

Jesse Tyler Ferguson, who just became a dad for the first time with husband of seven-years Justin Mikita, 35, said that he wish he could 'take away [Chrissy's] heartbreak.'
SPRINGFIELD  Trick or treat from afar.

That's the suggestion made Wednesday by the state Department of Public Health and other officials about what's shaping up to be the most unusual Halloween in memory.

Among the recommendations from health director Dr. Ngozi Ezike: households should consider leaving individually wrapped candy on a table in driveways or in front of walkways to allow for social distancing

For anyone wearing a costume  whether a child or an adult  a costume mask is not a substitute for face covering, Ezike said. If face coverings are worn under the costume mask, please ensure that this does not create any breathing problems, and if it does, don't discard your face covering. Put the costume mask aside.

And those passing out candy should maintain 6 feet from trick-or-treaters and wear proper face coverings, according to the guidance, and trick-or-treating should be done in groups with household members only.

The list of suggestions was made the same day the state health office announced 2,273 new confirmed cases of coronavirus disease and 35 deaths.

Locally on Wednesday, Shelby County added seven COVID-19 cases. Macon County also had 39, for a total of 1,642 since the pandemic started.

Maroa-Forsyth Middle School officials announced three confirmed cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday and shifted classes to remote for 14 days. St. Teresa High School also moved to temporary full-remote learning after four cases, Herald & Review media partner WCIA-TV reported.

Macon County last week was one of 17 counties placed on a "warning list" for having an increasing number of COVID cases and deaths. Counties on the warning list risk having additional restrictions put in place, like closing restaurants and other businesses.

Decatur City Manager Scott Wrighton on Wednesday said local contact tracing suggests that COVID cases are being linked to large group gatherings and infected people going to work before finishing quarantine or getting a negative test. He said officials are getting more and more data as the pandemic progresses to make decisions.

"We can and must take the steps to get these numbers down, both for the sake of public health and the sake of the local economy," he said in a weekly video message.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker and public health officials also Wednesday talked about added mitigations in northwest Illinois, the possibility of exempting counties from regional restrictions and the effect of the University of Illinois massive testing output on its regions positivity rate.

Region 1, from the Rockford area to the states northwestern border, will see new restrictions including closure of bars and restaurants to indoor service starting Saturday as the positivity rate there exceeds 8%. It must decrease to 6.5% for three consecutive days to see mitigations lifted.

Region 4, which includes the Metro East area along the Missouri border, has had increased mitigations since mid-August, and bars and restaurants have been closed to indoor service since the beginning of September. While that region was on a downward trend, the latest data released by IDPH showed the positivity rate increased to 7.4%. Thats a half point above where it was four days ago.

That region also will not have mitigations lifted until it sees three days below 6.5%.

Pritzker was asked about the possibility of removing St. Clair County, which had a 6.3% positivity rate, from added restrictions. He said the 11 regions in the plan were increased from four in a previous version based on the states IDPH medical regions.

People travel in that region. They travel between counties. It is not a good idea, in my view, for us to break this down into 102 counties across the state of Illinois, but instead if we can work with the counties and particularly their county public health officials to bring down their positivity rates, that is the right solution, he said, noting IDPH is working with other county departments of public health to decrease rates.

While Pritzker said nine of 11 regions were seeing decreasing rates, Ezike pointed out that the lowest region  Region 6 including the Champaign-Urbana area in east-central Illinois  had a rate lowered by the U of Is massive testing program, which on some days accounts for 20% of the states testing output.

Region 6 has a 2.2% positivity rate, but with the UI tests removed, its actually at 7.1%.

We want to ensure that the large volume of tests at Urbana-Champaign does not overshadow the trends that we're seeing in the broader region, and we don't want to be inhibited from taking action to keep people safe, Ezike said, noting IDPH would share the data without the U of I numbers and apply mitigations if regional metrics are hit with UI tests excluded.

If regional metrics are tripped in Region 6 by looking at the data in this way, the entire region, including Champaign County, will still be required to implement mitigation efforts, she said.

Additionally, indoor haunted houses are not allowed, per Phase 4 state guidance, and IDPH suggested open-air alternatives such as one-way haunted forests or haunted walks where social distancing can be maintained.

At pumpkin patches, face coverings should be worn and hands sanitized before handling pumpkins. On hayrides, parties should be spaced 6 feet apart and they should not exceed 50% capacity.

Also per Phase 4 guidelines, gatherings of more than 50 people or 50% or more of a buildings maximum occupancy are prohibited, including for Halloween parties.

Wrighton said the Decatur City Council on Monday is expected to discuss how to handle holiday gatherings in October, November and December. The agenda is also expected to include information about rent and utility assistance for residents who are dealing with COVID.

Also Wednesday, Christian County officials said a staff member at the YMCA in Taylorville tested positive for COVID.

Illinois officials on Wednesday released trick-or-treating guidelines

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NEW YORK - Amazon said Thursday that nearly 20,000 of its workers have tested positive or been presumed positive for the virus that causes COVID-19.

But the online retail behemoth, revealing the data for the first time, said that the infection rate of its employees was well below that seen in the general U.S. population.

Amazon said in a corporate blog Thursday that it examined data from March 1 to Sept. 19 on 1.37 million workers at Amazon and Whole Foods Market across the U.S.

It said it compared the COVID-19 case rates to the general population, as reported by Johns Hopkins University for the same period. Based on that analysis, if the rate among Amazon and Whole Foods employees were the same as that for the general population, it estimated it would have seen 33,952 cases among its workforce. That is 42% higher that Amazons actual rate.

The Seattle-based company also said it is conducting thousands of tests a day, which will grow to 50,000 tests a day across 650 sites by November.

The analysis comes as Amazon, along with other retailers and meat packing plants, have been under increasing pressure by workers and labour-backed groups to go public with their COVID cases.

The secrecy has left workers at various retailers including Amazon and Walmart to become amateur sleuths in their spare time. Unions and advocate groups have taken up the cause, too, creating lists or building online maps of stores where workers can self-report cases they know about.
Cleaning sensation Mrs Hinch opened up about how 'daunting' and 'petrifying' her experience of fame had been.

Speaking to Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby on This Morning, the social media influencer, whose real name is Sophie Hinchliffe, from Maldon, Essex, said she had struggled to keep up with her ascension to fame.

As she prepares to release her memoirs This is Me, the cleaning-enthusiast, counts nearly four million followers on Instagram where she shares cleaning and organising hacks.

Mrs Hinch said she was finally ready to address the abuse she and her family suffered online.

Trolls have been sending hate to the influencer ever since she rose to fame in the past two years, criticising everything, from her hands to her home and family.

Viewers felt for the social media personality and expressed their sympathy.

Cleaning sensation Mrs Hinch, a.k.a Sophie Hinchliffe, from Maldon, Essex, said she struggled to keep up with the dark side of her fame on This Morning

Viewers wondered who could abuse such a lovely person as Mrs Hinch and told her not to worry about them

Speaking of her rise to fame and the abuse she's received, Mrs Hinch said: 'It's been amazing, incredible, but at the same time it's petrifying, it's quite scary,' she said.

She admitted to struggling to 'keep up' with her public profile.

'There's been so many highs and the positives far outweigh the negatives, but the dark side of it really is quite dark, to the point where I was never ready for this,' she added.

Phillip Schofield said he was horrified to find that she even had received abuse about the appearance of her toddler son.

Sophie and hr family have been the victim of relentless online trolls who've criticised everything from her looks to her home and even her child

'The thing is Phil, I don't really talk about it or address it on my channel because I've always had it as a very lighthearted place to be,' Mrs Hinch said.

'But it's got to a point where I need to shine a light on the fact that people are going through this and people must be so supportive and kind to each other at the moment.

'And the truth is,' she added, 'There is a whole side to this social media influencer world and public eye as such that is so scary and so daunting that I felt it was time.'

'I've ever spoken up or addressed any of these mad theories or rumours and I thought "No, it's time now",' she said.

The influencer confirmed that she and her family received threats to the point where she had to get the police involved.

'I've got a fantastic sort of team around me that have helped me to feel safe again at home, and prepared me in so many different ways,' she said.

Mrs Hinch told Phil and Holly that the abuse had gotten to a point where it was too hard for her not to address it

Viewers said the influence was 'not hurting anyone' and that the ones doing the abuse were jealous of her success

'I do a lot of gratitude checks,' she added, referring to an exercise where one person lists the things they are grateful for.

Going on to say her followers were incredible, the influencer said the positives were much more important than the negative sides of fame, but added: 'It's something that's gotten to a point where it's too hard not to address it.'

Viewers felt for the social media personality, asking why people would ever want to bully her.

'Oooo so many bitter and jealous woman commenting about Mrs Hinch! Move along shes not hurting anyone,' she said.

'How can anyone troll this lovely lady .. haters gonna hate , honestly some people are just shocking .. keep doing what you do, dont worry about those types,' another said.

'Mrs Hinch Is An Absolute Diamond .. Will Never Understand Why People Troll Her,' said one.
Meet Dwight Neptune, a 22-year-old college dropout who founded drone start-up Beagle Drones at the age of 18.

Neptune began studying electrical engineering in high school and picked up drones as a hobby. He "wanted to build something that people enjoy and saw FPV as the entryway to building really cool tech products." FPV, or first person view, drones are more agile than traditional drones and allow the user to get video footage that would be physically impossible with other types of drones.

Neptune and his co-founders built the prototype with off-the-shelf parts and sold it at cost in May 2017 to test the market. After three semesters, Neptune dropped out of Mercer County Community College to pursue Beagle Drones full time as CEO.

Now, three years later, the New Jersey-based company sells two different drones, priced at $130 and $400, and is on track for $100,000 in sales in 2020, according to Neptune. He's in the process of raising $1 million at a $4 million valuation, he says.

Raising money as a Black founder is "weird," Neptune notes. "I've been with several VCs, angel funds, and nine times out of 10, I'm the only Black founder there."

He aims to foster an accepting and diverse culture at Beagle. "Our team is extremely diverse by default because our C-suite and our founding team is diverse, and it just attracts other people that want to work with a diverse group."

Neptune puts in long days, working from 7 a.m. to midnight or later. "There's not much of a social life when you're a founder," he says. "The reality is you have to outwork as many people as you can."

But he has big ambitions: Neptune wants to be one of the first Black founders to pull off a billion-dollar tech company.

Watch the video above to learn more about his experience as a young CEO, and how he's built a drone company from the ground up.

Check out: Will Smith and Kevin Hart are backing this 27-year-old's pandemic-proof start-up

Don't miss: We analyzed 111 rewards cards, and the best one could earn you $2,000 over 5 years
A qualified lawyer has failed in an 'unprecedented' bid to force his wealthy parents to keep supporting him.

The man, a trained solicitor who has mental health disabilities and is currently unemployed, said his parents had 'nurtured his dependency' on them and that he was vulnerable.

The 41-year-old from London said his parents had recently 'significantly reduced' the financial support they had given down the years after his relationship with them deteriorated.

The man, who has not been identified, wanted a judge to rule they should continue to support him.

Lawyers representing the man argued that a judge had powers to order parents to provide support and cited laws relating to marriage and children.

His parents said the claim should be dismissed.

A trained solicitor has failed in a bid to force his wealthy parents to keep supporting him, in a case described as 'most unusual' by a judge. Library image of a wallet with money in it

Sir James Munby ruled against the man after considering arguments at a remote family court hearing.

He ruled that the man had 'no case'.

The judge, who outlined detail of the case in a ruling published online on Wednesday, described the claim as 'most unusual' and, as far as he knew, 'unprecedented'.

Sir James has not named the people involved, but said the man lived in London and his parents in Dubai.

'His parents have supported him financially down the years and continue, to some extent, to do so,' said Sir James in his ruling.

'They have permitted him to live in a flat in central London, of which they are the registered proprietors, and in relation to which they have until recently been paying the utility bills.

'Of late... the relationship between the applicant and his parents - in particular, it would appear, his father - has deteriorated and the financial support they are prepared to offer has significantly reduced.

'He characterises their stance as seemingly being that, having in fact - whether wittingly or unwittingly - nurtured his dependency on them for the last 20 years or so - with the consequence that he is, so it is said, now completely dependent on them - they now seek to cast that dependency on to the state.'

The judge said he was satisfied the man had 'no case' and added: 'His applications should be summarily dismissed.'
The VVIP Air India One aircraft that will be used to fly the President, Vice-President and Prime Minister, arrived in Delhi from US on Thursday, said government officials.

The B777 aircraft was scheduled to be delivered by aircraft manufacturer Boeing to Air India in July, but its delivery was delayed twice - once in July for a few weeks due to Covid-19 pandemic and then in August for a few weeks due to technical reasons - the officials noted.

It is equipped with advance communication system which allows availing audio and video communication function at mid-air without being hacked.

Watch the arrival of the Air India One aircraft here:

#WATCH: VVIP aircraft Air India One that will be used for President, Vice President & PM arrives at Delhi International Airport from US.



It is equipped with advance communication system which allows availing audio & video communication function at mid-air without being hacked. pic.twitter.com/4MtXHi8F9O  ANI (@ANI) October 1, 2020

The Air India One, which is the call sign of the aircraft, landed at the Delhi airport from Texas at around 3 pm on Thursday, officials stated. Currently, it will be used to fly Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Ram Nath Kovind and other senior dignitaries of the country.

Senior officials of the national carrier had reached the US during the first half of August to receive the plane from Boeing, the officials said.

Another custom-made B777 plane for the travel of VVIPs is likely to be received from Boeing during a later date, they noted.

These two aircraft were part of Air India's commercial fleet for a few months in 2018 before they were sent back to Boeing for retrofitting them for VVIP travel.

Officials said the total cost of purchase and retrofitting the two planes has been estimated to be around 8,400 crore.

The B777 planes will have state-of-the-art missile defence systems called Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures (LAIRCM) and Self-Protection Suites (SPS).

In February, the US agreed to sell the two defence systems to India at a cost of USD 190 million.

During the travel of the VVIPs, the two B777 aircraft will be operated by pilots of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and not of Air India, an official said.

Currently, the president, vice president and prime minister, fly on Air India's B747 planes, which have the call sign Air India One.

Air India pilots fly these B747 aircraft for the dignitaries and the Air India Engineering Services Limited (AIESL) maintains them.

When these B747 aircraft are not flying the dignitaries, they are used by the Indian national carrier for commercial operations.

The custom-made B777 planes will be used for travel of the dignitaries only.

The Centre has already initiated the process of divestment of its stake in Air India, which has a debt of over 60,000 crore. However, the process has been postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The defence ministry on Thursday sealed a deal with a Nagpur-based company for supply of 10,00,000 hand grenades to the Indian Army at an approximate cost of Rs 409 crore. The ministry said the 'multi-mode' hand grenades will replace the "World War II vintage" grenades being used by the Indian Army.

"The Acquisition Wing of the Ministry of Defence (MoD) today signed a contract with M/s Economic Explosive Ltd (EEL), Nagpur, for supply of 10,00,000 multi-mode hand grenades to the Indian Army at an approximate cost of Rs 409 crore," the ministry said in a statement. "These grenades will be replacing the hand grenade design of World War-II vintage, in use with the Indian Army," it said.

The grenades to be supplied by Economic Explosive Ltd have been designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), officials said. "The grenades have a distinctive design, in that, they can be used in both offensive and defensive modes. This is a flagship project showcasing public-private partnership under the aegis of government of India enabling 'Atmanirbharta' (self reliance) in cutting edge ammunition technologies," the ministry said.
A dog really is a man, or a woman's, best friend.

Jax, a two-year-old golden retriever, saved his owner from taking a tumble after she came home tipsy after a night out.

Hannah Quintus, 22, from Eagle Grove, Iowa, was heading to bed after a few drinks when she became unsteady on her feet.

Her observant dog Jax jumped up and steadied her with his two front paws, guiding her safely to the bed.

A pet camera in the room recorded the incredible moment and, although embarrassed by it, Hannah decided to share it online.

The black-and-white footage shows Hannah removing some toys from her bed looking a little unsteady on her feet.

Jax attentively watches her with his tail wagging until he sees his owner swaying off balance.

Jax, a two-year-old golden retriever from Iowa, saves his tipsy owner Hannah Quintus, 22, from taking a tumble after a night out by putting his two paws on her chest as she sways unsteadily

Just before she topples over, he jumps up on his back legs, putting his two front paws on her chest to steady her and guide her onto the bed.

Hannah said: 'Looking back at the footage I was kind of embarrassed but I just thought it was really amazing and funny.

'I've had Jax since he was seven weeks old and he's the best thing that has ever happened to me.'

Hannah posted the video to TikTok, with the caption: 'When you've had too many drinks and your dog saves you.'

He stops her from falling and helps Hannah to steady herself and then guides her safely to her bed. The video has been viewed three million times on TikTok

Speaking to the Daily Star Hannah said that she has a very close bond with her dog Jax who is very tactile.

She said he 'loves to be held and he constantly has to be touching somebody'.

The video has been viewed more than three million times with viewers reacting enthusiastically in the comments.

One person commented on Jax's caring abilities, writing: 'He would make a really good service dog.'

Another dog-lover joked: 'Best dog right there. My dog would have waited till I fell and then started licking me.'
Californians are being asked decide if Uber, Lyft and other app-based drivers should remain independent contractors or be eligible for the benefits that come with being company employees.

The battle between the powerhouses of the so-called gig economy and labor unions including the International Brotherhood of Teamsters could become the most expensive ballot measure in state history. Voters are weighing whether to create an exemption to a new state law aimed at providing wage and benefit protections to drivers.

Uber and Lyft have fought a losing battle in the Legislature and courts, so now  with help from app-based food delivery companies DoorDash, Postmates and Instacart  they are spending more than $180 million to take their fight directly to voters in the Nov. 3 election.

Early voting in California starts Monday. Uber and Lyft, both headquartered in San Francisco, have said they may leave the state if the measure fails.

The landmark labor law known known as AB5 threatens to upend the app-based business model, which offers great flexibility to drivers who can work whenever they choose. But they forego protections like minimum wage, overtime, health insurance and reimbursement for expenses.

Whats at stake is the future of labor, the nature of work, how conditions are changing for households amidst the pandemic and recession, said David McCuan, chair of Californias Sonoma State University political science department.

Labor-friendly Democrats in the Legislature passed the law last year to expand upon a 2018 ruling by the California Supreme Court that limited businesses from classifying workers as independent contractors.

Uber and Lyft have maintained that their drivers meet the criteria to be independent contractors, not employees. They also have argued the law didnt apply to them because they are technology companies, not transportation companies, and drivers are not a core part of their business.

Attorney General Xavier Becerra took the companies to court, and a San Francisco Superior Court judge ruled the companies are subject to the new employment standards. But that ruling has been put on hold while the companies appeal.

Any ruling could be undone by the outcome of the vote, though further litigation is likely.

If Proposition 22 passes, it would exempt app-based transportation and delivery companies from the labor law and drivers would remain independent contractors exempt from mandates for overtime, sick leave and expense reimbursement.

But it also would put in place policies that require those companies to provide alternative benefits, including a guaranteed minimum wage and subsidies for health insurance if they average 25 hours of work a week.

Supporters say drivers enjoy the independence and flexibility of the current model.

If I want to work four hours and say, Im done, I can do that, said Doug Mead, a Palm Springs retiree who delivers meals for Uber Eats and Postmates and estimates he makes about $24 an hour. Where is there an employer on the planet where I can do that?

Opponents say the companies exploit workers and wont end up delivering as much pay as proponents claim.

Saori Okawa, who for a year drove 10 hours a day, six days a week for Uber in San Francisco and now delivers food, said she wants more protections for drivers, many of whom are immigrants like her.

She figures she earned closer to $10 an hour after accounting for expenses that included renting a car for $1,000 a month. She said the hours were long and stressful, and she got into an accident that, had it resulted in injury, would have meant hospital bills and unpaid time off work.

Before I went out to work I always prayed to God  to protect myself, Okawa said. The traffic is crazy.

The ride-hailing and delivery companies have spent more than $180 million, so far, to pass the measure, while labor groups have put up more than $10 million to defeat it.

McCuan said the companies are likely to put up another $100 million or more, making it more expensive in todays dollars than a 1998 proposition that cleared the way to allow Native American tribes to operate casinos in California.

Big Tech has joined the big, bad bogeymen of California politics, McCuan said. If youre going to push something and youre going to have difficulty in the Legislature because Democrats own the Legislature and labor is a 900-pound gorilla in Sacramento, you have to  go around the Legislature.

Most of the states largest newspapers, which benefited from exemptions for freelancers and a temporary reprieve for drivers who deliver their publications, have written editorials in support of the measure.

The San Francisco Chronicle called the measure imperfect but said it attempts to strike a balance between workers and the companies that will keep the app-based, ride-hail and delivery services operating in California.

The legislative recalcitrance and lawsuits from labor-beholden politicians in the state capital, San Francisco and elsewhere give us no confidence that a reasonable solution could be reached if the initiative were to fail, the paper wrote.

The coronavirus pandemic has hammered Uber and Lyft as more people work from home and dont travel. On the other hand, more people are ordering food and grocery deliveries from app-based services such as Postmates and Instacart. Some gig workers have switched to those platforms for work, earning what they say are lower wages.

A majority of Uber and Lyft drivers interviewed over the course of an hour recently at Los Angeles International Airport said they support the measure, with all citing the freedom to set their own hours and work other jobs.

Jeff Hodge, a standup comic looking for his big break, sees pros and cons of both sides but being independent is a better fit for him.

If I was a regular Joe, Id be an employee, Hodge said. It all depends on your lifestyle. If I wasnt doing anything else, Id want the benefits. Id want to be able to come in and guarantee a certain amount of hours, get a certain amount of pay, go home.

Related:

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics California Personal Auto Contractors Sharing Economy Ridesharing
Kochi, Oct 1 : Let the CBI probe continue, was the statement that came from the Kerala High Court on Thursday after Life Mission moved the court to plead for the quashing of an "illegal" FIR registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation over its housing project at Thrissur.

With this, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has suffered yet another blow in his attempts to show everything in his pet project - Life Mission - as normal and transparent, despite vociferous allegations of corruption in the project by the opposition Congress and the BJP.

It was on Wednesday that the state government after taking advice on the matter from legal brains, who pointed out that the FIR could be quashed as it was illegal and that the government had no role in the matter, gave the nod for Life Mission to file this petition.

Moving the petition, Life Mission which brought in a senior counsel from the apex court, pointed out that this is a politically motivated probe and the state government has no role in this.

But the court which not only did not intervene in the petition, directed Life Mission to cooperate with the probe and said let the CBI investigation continue. It posted the case for further hearing on October 8.

Life Mission CEO UV Jose, a senior IAS officer, has been summoned to appear before the CBI with all the relevant documents on October 5.

The Mission's contention is that the agreement for the construction was inked between UAE-based charity Red Crescent, which is funding the construction at Wadakkancherry in Thrissur district, and Unitech Builders. The state has no role and hence the FIR is illegal and should be quashed.

Earlier this week, Leader of Opposition Ramesh Chennithala warned of legal and political steps against any move by the Vijayan government to bring an ordinance to keep the CBI out of the probe.

Reacting to the turn of events in the high court on Thursday, Chennithala said it is a setback for the Vijayan government in its attempt to keep the corruption in this project under wraps.

"Now that the attempt to run away from the CBI probe has failed, the Vijayan government should withdraw the case and cooperate with the CBI. The state government is spending a huge amount of money to bring in counsel from outside the state and this is happening when the state is precariously placed as far as its finances are concerned. What all fail to understand is, the Vijayan government is saying there is no corruption at all and if so, then why are they trying to run away from the ongoing CBI probe," asked Chennithala.

The Life Mission project, a pet project of Vijayan ever since he assumed the CM's office in 2016, was floated to build houses for the homeless and landless, using funds raised through sponsorships. The state's role was limited to only providing the land.

The project, however, ran into trouble when Anil Akkara, a Congress legislator, first raised questions about alleged wrongdoings in a building project in his Wadakkancherry constituency, for which funds came from Red Crescent.

The project was routed through the UAE Consulate, where smuggling case main accused Swapna Suresh and PS Sarith earlier worked. It turned murkier when news surfaced that a son of Industries Minister EP Jayarajan was also close to Swapna.

Vijayan's media adviser John Brittas had claimed that Rs 4.25 crore in commission was paid in the project, a stand endorsed by two state Ministers.

The CBI has already questioned Santhosh Eapen, whose company was given the contract to build the houses.

Vijayan is Life Mission Chairman while his trusted aide and Local Self-Government Minister AC Moideen is the Vice-Chairman. Incidentally, the project MoU was inked in Vijayan's office.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
An armed member stands guard at a Proud Boys gathering in September. (Richard Read / Los Angeles Times)

On Tuesday night, President Trump once again emboldened the violent far-right when he deflected a debate moderator's request to tell those groups to stand down, instead responding that one such organization, the Proud Boys, should "stand back and stand by," adding, "Somebody has got to do something about antifa and the left."

Here's what you need to know about the far-right movement in the U.S. and why the president's remarks were significant.





What does 'far right' mean?

There is no single definition of what it means to be "far right," which is a broad term applied to a fragmented series of groups and ideologies that have operated along the fringes of U.S. politics, some for well over a century. Such groups embrace ideals of white racial purity, ultranationalism, "Western civilization" or male dominance. They have often expressed hostility to Black people, immigrants, members of certain religious groups (typically Jews, Muslims and Catholics), left-wing organizations, feminists, the federal government and even liberal democracy itself.

Far-right groups are also often labeled as racists, white supremacists, white nationalists, fascists, "alt-right," neo-Nazis, neo-Confederates, chauvinists and militias, with the distinction frequently depending on their history or ideology. Historically, America's best-known right-wing extremist organization is the Ku Klux Klan, which was violently dedicated to preserving white power after the Confederacy's defeat in the Civil War brought new rights to formerly enslaved Black Americans.

The Klan's power has waned, but such groups continue to appear in the public sphere. Many Americans will be most familiar with their gathering at the 2017 "Unite the Right" rally in Charlottesville, Va., where far-right groups clashed with anti-racist protesters, killing one woman.

Who are the Proud Boys?

The Anti-Defamation League, which monitors extremists, describes the Proud Boys as "violent, nationalistic, Islamophobic, transphobic and misogynistic," but says "its members represent a range of ethnic backgrounds, and its leaders vehemently protest any allegations of racism."

Story continues

Its membership is estimated to be in the hundreds, organized into local chapters that have attended public rallies and protests and sometimes violently confronted left-wing protesters. Its founder, Gavin McInnes, describes the group as a "pro-Western fraternity," but the Anti-Defamation League says it has "many of the hallmarks of a gang, and its members have taken part in multiple acts of brutal violence and intimidation."

On Wednesday, media outlets in Portland, Ore., reported that one Proud Boy member had been arrested on suspicion of assault and pointing a gun at anti-fascist protesters at an Aug. 22 confrontation in the city.





What is Trump's relationship to the far right?

Trump's groundbreaking 2016 presidential campaign energized far-right groups as he made harsh attacks on immigrants, Muslims, liberals and the idea of America as a collaborative participant in international diplomacy and trade. He embraced what are sometimes called "white grievance" politics, attracting large numbers of white voters, most frequently men, who believed that they themselves had been the victims of racial discrimination.

After winning, Trump populated his White House with hard-line conservatives such as Stephen K. Bannon, whose website Breitbart had been a key platform for elevating the so-called "alt-right," which turned out to just be another name for fascism.

This drew praise from the far right, which felt that in Trump it now had a vessel to inject its own extremist politics into the mainstream after decades of marginalization, humiliation and defeat.

As The Times reported in 2016, David Duke, a former Klan grand wizard, declared that "the fact that Donald Trumps doing so well, it proves that Im winning." Richard Spencer, president of the National Policy Institute, who called for a separate white nation, said, Before Trump, our identity ideas, national ideas, they had no place to go." Andrew Anglin, operator of the neo-Nazi website the Daily Stormer, said, Virtually every alt-right Nazi I know is volunteering for the Trump campaign.





How has Trump talked about the far right in the past?

It's typical for politicians to publicly distance themselves from their most extreme supporters, usually to avoid alienating moderates or energizing opponents. But Trump, who has sometimes retweeted Twitter accounts associated with white nationalists, has often stumbled, prevaricated, pleaded ignorance or shifted blame to the left when confronted about his support from the far right.

In 2016, after retweeting a quote by Benito Mussolini, the Italian fascist leader who was allied with Adolf Hitler, Trump said, Look, Mussolini was Mussolini  and I know who said it, calling it a very good quote, an interesting quote.

Asked to disavow Duke and the KKK, Trump evaded, saying, I dont know anything about David Duke. I dont know anything about what youre even talking about with white supremacy or white supremacists. So, I dont know.

After the deadly 2017 Charlottesville rally, Trump told reporters: "Ive condemned neo-Nazis; Ive condemned many different groups," but said he believed that not all of the right-wing participants were neo-Nazis, and that "you also had people that were very fine people on both sides."

That comment caused an uproar among Trump's critics, who took the remark as Trump calling neo-Nazis "very fine people" and who denounced his unwillingness to take a hard stand against racists while the nation was rattled by its largest fascist gathering in years.





What Trump said at the debate

At Tuesday night's debate, moderator Chris Wallace gave Trump yet another chance to denounce far-right radicals, and the president once again created an uproar with his unwillingness to denounce extremist supporters.

"Are you willing tonight to condemn white supremacists and militia groups and to say that they need to stand down and not add to the violence in a number of these cities ... ?" Wallace asked.

"Sure, I'm willing to do that. I would say, I would say, almost everything I see is from the left wing, not from the right wing," Trump said. "I'm willing to do anything. I want to see peace."

"Then do it, sir," Wallace said.

"Say it. Do it. Say it," Democratic nominee Joe Biden said.

"You want to call em  what do you want to call em? Give me a name, give me a name," Trump said. "Who would you like me to condemn?"

Wallace and Biden, talking over each other, suggested "white supremacists" and the right-wing group the Proud Boys.

"Proud Boys, stand back and stand by  but I'll tell you what, I'll tell you what, somebody's got to do something about antifa and the left," Trump said.

Many listeners, including members of the Proud Boys, saw Trump's response as a sign of support, the opposite of a denunciation.

Facing widespread criticism afterward, Trump attempted Wednesday to walk back his remark, saying, "I don't know who Proud Boys are, but whoever they are, they have to stand down, let enforcement do their work." But he reiterated, "now, antifa is a real problem, because the problem is on the left."

Pressed again by a reporter to denounce white supremacists, Trump responded, "I've always denounced any form of any of that."

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
The comic strip was translated into more than 20 languages and established Quino as Argentinas most famous cartoonist as well as a symbol of the movement for democracy and human rights after military uprisings in 1966 and 1976. He said with humor what nobody dared at the time, and in such a way it could not be censored, President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner said in 2014.
Dubai, Oct 1 : A Dubai-based Indian expat has been cleared of charges of sexually abusing one of his female colleagues during a Diwali party at his residence last year, the media reported.

The Dubai Court of First Instance heard a 32-year-old Indian woman testify that she had helped organise the party at the 59-year-old defendant's home, Gulf News reported on Thursday.

But after the guests left, the defendant then kissed her and asked for sexual favours.

She was allowed to leave the house following her refusal, after which she lodged a complaint at the Bur Dubai Police Station.

The victim claimed that the defendant was under the influence of alcohol during the incident.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Thousands of New York Citys small businesses are struggling due to being shuttered during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

For this reason, the city Small Business Resource Network was established a one-stop-shop for helping businesses get back on their feet.

The public-private partnership -- funded by a $2.8 million grant from the New York City-based Peterson Foundation -- was established to help the citys 236,000 small businesses obtain additional government resources as they try to stay afloat amid the pandemic.

The recovery of our local small businesses is a vital piece of New York Citys economic and societal recovery. This NYC Small Business Resource Network is the type of collaboration this city needs to allow our small business in each borough to survive, said Borough President James Oddo.

The Peter G. Peterson Foundation, the Partnership for New York City and the Partnership Fund, New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC), in collaboration with the city Department of Small Business Services, Chambers of Commerce of the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens and Staten Island, joined forces to launch the initiative.

Our chamber has been working hard to help all businesses, even the very smallest, during these trying times, said Linda Baran, president and CEO of the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce. We will have two people on the ground and we will have a lot of extra help for businesses."

The Resource Network will utilize a team of 22 dedicated small business specialists who will be embedded at the five chambers of commerce. These professionals will work directly with local entrepreneurs in the hardest-hit communities, helping them gain access to a range of programs and services. In addition, these professionals will focus on minority-, women- and immigrant-owned businesses that have limited access to the help they need to survive the pandemic.

Through the Network, Staten Island small businesses will also have access to a restaurant specialist and two technology specialists who will work to support the chambers of commerce in all five boroughs, said Baran.

Chamber members know to come to us to het help, but there are a lot of business owners who dont know where to go. Having the ability to have two more people on the ground to do outreach and literally walk from store to store is going to go a long way, she said.

ADVISORY SERVICES TO BE RAMPED UP

The new initiative will allow small business owners to take advantage of an array of advisory services that will be ramped up over the next few weeks. Advisors will help small businesses navigate a range of challenges, including technology, real estate, legal and accounting services, procurement opportunities, marketing, and sources of loans and grants.

There will also be assistance for navigating the complex new regulatory environment established to contain the pandemic.

The small business community has been shaken by the COVID-19 pandemic and this is our latest commitment to ensure that small businesses get the resources they need by connecting them to services to help them to reopen and recover, said Jonnel Doris, commissioner of the city Department of Small Business Services. We are working together with the chambers of commerce in all five boroughs to identify the most pressing needs of our small business owners and help them come back.

Said Sarah Jessica Parker, founder and owner, SJP Collection: As a small business owner and a committed New Yorker, I believe our citys future depends on how we mobilize to support the entrepreneurs who bring unique products and services to our neighborhood shopping districts. They make New York City infinitely exciting and special. We cannot let them down."

Business owners can access resources by contacting a recovery specialist in their borough at www.nycsmallbusinessresourcenetwork.org. Assistance will be available in multiple languages.

*** CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE COVERAGE OF CORONAVIRUS IN NEW YORK***

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At the Stanytsia Luhanska entry-exit checkpoint, which is temporarily closed, infrastructure elements are on fire, the situation is complicated due to strong gusts of wind, the press service of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine said.

"Now at the entry-exit checkpoint, the elements of infrastructure are already partially damaged. The fire brigades of the State Emergency Service have arrived at the site, with which the border guards are taking all measures to contain the wildfire," the service said on its website.

It is noted that the situation is complicated by strong gusts of wind.

In turn, Stanychno-Luhanska District State Administration said that the flames from the Stanytsia Luhanska entry-exit checkpoint spread to Donetska and Lomonosova Streets along the entry-exit checkpoint.

Thus, at the entry-exit checkpoint, wooden sheds are burning. "The subdivisions of the State Emergency Service and the equipment for the supply of water from communal enterprise Teploservis were involved," the service said.

As reported, due to the wildfire and the threat of detonation of ammunition, the pass to the entry-exit checkpoint was suspended. The civilians were immediately taken to a safe distance.
The Orange County Fire Authority's new firefighting helicopter waits on the runway to take off prior to a demonstration of its water-dropping capabilities in Los Alamitos, Calif., on Sept. 30, 2020. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

OC Fire Authority Unveils New Supersized Helitanker to Fight Wildfires

LOS ALAMITOS, Calif.The Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) unveiled its newest tool to combat Californias raging wildfires, at a Sept. 30 demonstration on the Joint Forces Training Base in Los Alamitos.

The OCFA revealed its new helicopter, the Coulson Aviation Chinook, reportedly the most advanced helitanker in the world. The firefighting aircraft is capable of carrying up to 3,000 gallons of water in a single trip to drop on wildfires.

Following an introduction ceremony, the OCFA displayed the abilities of the new helitanker, along with its current firefighting helicopter, by loading both with water. After taking off and looping around the base, each dropped gallons of water onto the airstrip.

Capt. Greg Barta opened the demonstration by thanking electricity supplier Southern California Edison for the power companys $2.1 million dollar donation toward the lease of the helicopter.

Today were here to introduce the newest asset available to help aid in fighting wildfires in the Southern California region, Barta told the audience.

Thanks to funding from Southern California Edison, we now have the most capable, very large helitanker in the world on our team: the Coulson Aviation Chinook behind me.

Barta told The Epoch Times that the lease of the helicopter will last for 83 days, beginning Oct. 1. He noted that while the fixed standby cost of the lease is $2.1 million, the cost of flight time will be paid for by the requesting fire agency.

A new helicopter leased by the Orange County Fire Authority to combat wildfires in Southern California demonstrates its capabilities in Los Alamitos, Calif., on Sept. 30, 2020. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

A new Chinook firefighting helicopter with a 3,000-gallon water capacity waits on the runway in Los Alamitos, Calif., on Sept. 30, 2020. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

OCFA Chief Brian Fennessy discussed the advanced features and capabilities of the aircraft. He extolled the virtues of the ability to drop 3,000 gallons of water on a firecompared to the capacity of the regular OCFA helicopter, which is capable of holding 375 gallons at most.

This helitanker, its a force multiplier, he said. Typical fire engines you see on the street carry about 500 gallons. The helicopter behind us drops 3,000 gallons. That is a massive amount of water.

This literally is the largest-tank helicopter in the world, and none of them fly 24/7. This aircraft is going to be staffed 24 hours a day. Night vision goggle-rated pilots and aircraft will be available throughout Southern California Edison service turf.

Fennessy noted that the helitanker will be used all over the state where needednot just in Southern California.

As you all know, wildfires have been ravaging the state for well over two months, well before the Aug. 15 lightning storm that ravaged Northern and Central California. LA County had several big fires, and its just been nonstop, he said.

I believe that were closing in on 4 million total acres here in the state of California. The record prior today was just under 2 million, to put it into context.

The ability to use a helicopter like the one behind me to drop a target, to put a retardant line in at night, is a capability that has not existed until today.

Fennessy, who has been in the fire service for over 40 years, said he expected the helitanker would begin its first day of work on Oct. 1 by traveling north to help firefighters there struggling to contain raging wildfires.

Southern California Edison CEO Kevin Payne told the crowd it was important for his company to work with OCFA to help improve wildfire risk awareness.

When our firefighters go into action, they should feel ready and confident they have the most advanced technology and toolslike the helitanker youre going to see here todayto support them, Payne said.

He cited unprecedented safety risks around catastrophic wildfires up and down the West Coast as part of the companys motivation to help.

At SCE, safety remains our first and our highest priority, Payne said.

Our company is proud to continue to work closely with the local first responders and emergency managers to help improve wildfire risk awareness and to promote our communitys emergency readiness. And its an honor to continue to support the readiness of our fire agencies, such as the Orange County Fire Authority, whose people are on the front lines protecting lives, property, and our critical infrastructure.
TORONTO, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ - Purepoint Uranium Group Inc. (TSXV: PTU) ("Purepoint" or the "Company") today provided an update of its plans for the next exploration program at the Company's Hook Lake Project.

A preliminary technical meeting of the Hook Lake Joint Venture (JV) Partners was held last week to discuss options for the upcoming drill season, focusing primarily on the Sabre Zone. Hook Lake is a joint venture between Cameco Corporation (39.5%), Orano Canada Inc. (39.5%), and Purepoint (21%) in the Patterson Uranium District, Saskatchewan, Canada. The Hook Lake Project lies on the southwestern edge of Saskatchewan's Athabasca Basin and is adjacent to and on trend with recent high-grade uranium discoveries including Fission Uranium's Triple R Deposit and NexGen's Arrow Deposit.

"Over the past two seasons, we have carefully prepared the Sabre Zone for this drill program, first in identifying its southern boundary at the end of last year's drill program and then bringing resolution to discrete follow up drill targets with this year's electromagnetic survey." said Scott Frostad, Vice President Exploration at Purepoint. "With the assistance of our partners, we are looking forward to deploying our crews to this highly prospective, yet largely untested, 3.5 kilometre stretch of the Patterson Lake corridor."

Highlights:

Approximately 3,250 metres of diamond drilling has been proposed to test the Sabre Target Area;





Geophysical inversions and an interpretation of previously completed stepwise moving loop electromagnetic survey results from across the Carter Corridor and the U Conductors are currently being conducted by Cameco in order to better refine these targets prior to drilling;

Sabre Target Area ("W" Conductor - North):

This year's geophysical survey covered the Sabre Target area and consisted of five lines of stepwise-moving loop EM surveying that were spaced 800 metres apart. Interpretation of the survey results have provided initial drill targets covering 3.5 kilometres of conductor strike length. The purpose of the survey was to provide drill targets northeast of hole HK19-105 that intersected numerous shear zones, strong hydrothermal alteration and elevated radioactivity (up to 125 ppm U over 0.3 metres). Interpretation of the EM results provided four to six conductor picks of varying strength along each survey line. The "W" conductor now appears as two continuous parallel conductors of variable strength associated with numerous sub-parallel weaker conductors.

Drill hole HK20-115 tested a 2020 EM conductor pick located 3.6 kilometres northeast along strike of favourable drill hole HK19-105. Below the unconformity at 460 metres, the hole encountered strongly clay altered porphyroblastic schist and mafic intrusive to 500 metres, strongly hematite altered granodiorite gneiss to 512 metres, then strongly chloritized, sheared and graphitic mafic intrusive to a depth of 525 metres before completion within unaltered diorite gneiss at a depth of 638 metres.

Hook Lake JV Project

The Hook Lake JV Project is owned jointly by Cameco Corp. (39.5%), Orano Canada Inc. (39.5%), and Purepoint Uranium Group Inc. (21%) as operator and consists of nine claims totaling 28,598 hectares situated in the southwestern Athabasca Basin. The Hook Lake JV Project is considered one of the highest quality uranium exploration projects in the Athabasca Basin due to its location along the prospective Patterson Lake trend and the relatively shallow depth to the unconformity.

Current exploration is targeting the Patterson Lake Corridor that hosts Fission's Triple R Deposit (indicated mineral resource 87,760,000 lbs. U3O8 at an average grade of 1.82% U3O8  www.fissionuranium.com), NexGen Energy's Arrow Deposit (indicated mineral resource 256,600,000 lbs. U3O8 at an average grade of 4.03%  www.nexgenenergy.ca) and the Spitfire discovery by the Hook Lake JV. The foregoing mineral resource disclosure is information about the properties adjacent to the Company's property and does not imply that the Company will obtain similar information from its own property.

About Purepoint

Purepoint Uranium Group Inc. is focused on the precision exploration of its six projects in the Canadian Athabasca Basin, the world's richest uranium region. Established in the Athabasca Basin well before the initial resurgence in uranium earlier last decade, Purepoint's flagship project is the Hook Lake Project, a joint venture with two of the largest uranium suppliers in the world, Cameco Corporation and Orano Canada Inc. The Hook Lake JV Project is on trend with recent high-grade uranium discoveries including Fission Uranium's Triple R Deposit, NexGen's Arrow Deposit and the Hook Lake JV's Spitfire discovery.

Scott Frostad BSc, MASc, PGeo, Purepoint's Vice President, Exploration, is the Qualified Person responsible for technical content of this release.

Neither the Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this Press release.

Disclosure regarding forward-looking statements

This press release contains projections and forward-looking information that involve various risks and uncertainties regarding future events. Such forward-looking information can include without limitation statements based on current expectations involving a number of risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance of the Company. These risks and uncertainties could cause actual results and the Company's plans and objectives to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking information. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. These and all subsequent written and oral forward-looking information are based on estimates and opinions of management on the dates they are made and expressly qualified in their entirety by this notice.

SOURCE Purepoint Uranium Group Inc.

Related Links

http://www.purepoint.ca


Most of the polygamist Brown family from Sister Wives often stays relatively quiet on social media when theyre not filming for or appearing on TLC. One exception is Kody Browns third wife, Christine Brown, who regularly shares photos of her six kids, as well as promotions for her business ventures.

Recently, Christine took to Instagram to share details about her trip to New Jersey to visit her sister, Wendy Allred, with some of her children. The Sister Wives star immediately caught some heat for traveling during the COVID-19 crisis, while some fans defended the mom of six for her choices.

Janelle, Kody, and Christine Brown | Gabe Ginsberg/FilmMagic

Christine shared photos from recent travel with her kids

On September 22, Christine took to social media to share photos from her trip from Flagstaff, Arizona, to New Jersey to visit her sister, Wendy.

Sharing a snapshot of Gwendlyn Brown, Christine and Kodys teen daughter, playing games with her cousins, the Sister Wives star wrote on Instagram: Were hanging out with my sister, her husband and their incredible kids in New Jersey. Were blessed to have online learning so we can go on vacation during school!! Just keeping as positive as possible in crazy 2020!

Kodys third wife and a few of their kids seemed to have a blast on the trip. Later, Christine shared sunny photos of herself smiling at the beach with her sister, as well as trying oysters for the very first time.

RELATED: Sister Wives: Christine Browns Daughter Says Shes Too Selfish for Polygamy

Some Sister Wives fans wondered why Christine was traveling during the COVID-19 crisis

While Christine might have been all smiles when it came to her recent travels, not all of her followers were happy to see photos of the cross-country trip.

Several Sister Wives fans criticized the 48-year-olds choice to travel, especially to such a faraway destination, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Viewers also noted that Christine wasnt wearing a mask in her beach photos with her sister.

You have to quarantine, one disapproving Instagram user wrote in response to Christines cheery travel announcement.

Should you really be traveling?! another critic agreed.

Traveling during this pandemicpeople just dont have any sense, yet another argued.

Many of Christines followers urged her to stay home and wear a mask instead of using the time to take a trip.

If you people dont start staying home and wearing a mask were never going to get away from this virus anywhere! one Instagram user exclaimed.

Several Sister Wives fans called Christines decision selfish, pointing out that her choice to travel could also be putting her own kids and her sisters kids at risk.

RELATED: Sister Wives: Kody Brown Says He Sometimes Becomes a Warrior and Not a Good Husband In His Marriages; Christine Brown Calls Him a Bully

Others defended the mom of six for her decision

While many Sister Wives viewers werent happy with Christines travel plans, others chimed in to defend Kodys wife. Many pointed out that there werent shelter-in-place orders in most areas of the U.S. anymore. Others argued that it was important for families to maintain their mental health and connections with relatives during these uncertain times.

Still others simply argued that it wasnt anyones business what Christine chose to do with her own schedule and family.

Why do you care if Christine quarantines or not? one fan asked a critic. Worry about your own family.

Another supporter agreed, writing, Mind your own household. Nothing wrong with traveling.

While Christine didnt respond directly to any of the online criticism, her later Instagram post from the same trip might have been somewhat pointed.

The Sister Wives star shared a photo of herself with a face mask over her nose and mouth, adding that she was with her teen daughter Ysabel Brown, who was completing some of her online courses while at Panera Bread.

Perhaps Christine wanted to send a message to worried fans that she was adhering to at least some of the public health and social distancing guidelines related to COVID-19.
A survey conducted by LocalCircles to know if the parents want to send their children to the school revealed that 71 percent of respondents do not want their kids to attend school as coronavirus cases continue to rise unabated.

As per the new guidelines for Unlock 5.0, the Ministry of Home Affairs allowed the reopening of schools and colleges with restrictions beginning October 15. However, attendance is not mandatory.

The LocalCircles survey was conducted in 217 districts of the country with 61% parents from Tier 1 districts, 21% from Tier 2 districts and 18% from Tier 3, Tier 4 and rural districts. It revealed that the percentage of parents willing to send their children to school has dropped from 23% to 20% from August. Of the total, only 28% parents are in favour of schools reopening in 2020, while 34% feel they should reopen only in the next academic year.

All academic institutions have been closed since March due to the Covid-19 triggered lockdown. However, in September voluntary attendance for students of senior classes living out of containment zones was permitted.

When asked if the Centre and the state government decide that schools should open in October, would they be sending their child/grandchild to school in October, 71% responded in a clear no while only 20% said yes and 9% were unsure about it.

Respondents were also asked what their position was regarding the opening of schools in India. In response, 32% said schools should not open till Dec 31, 2020, while 34% said the government should not open schools for this academic year i.e. till March/April 2021. And 7% said schools should open from October 1, 12% said schools should open from November 1, 2020 and 9% said schools should open from December 1, 2020.

The public health emergency- Covid-19 crisis is not the only problem, the upcoming smog season in several parts of the northern states is also a major deterrent for parents to send their wards to school.

Last year, after the PM 2.5 touched 900 in Delhi- NCR, 74% parents had demanded that the government should announce a smog break for schools from Nov 1 -20 each year, keeping in mind the negative health effects that the smog could have on childrens health.
Holes PM20-03, 04, and 09 confirm Fold in West Lens and Potential to Add to Resources

Hole 04 intersects 18.97% ZnEq over 3.9 metres and 24.62% ZnEq over 3.4 metres

THUNDER BAY, ON / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / Wolfden Resources Corporation (TSXV:WLF) ("Wolfden" or the "Company") is pleased to announce additional positive results and an update for its ongoing 5,000 metre drill program at its wholly owned Pickett Mountain Project in Northeastern Maine. Ten holes have been drilled to date to test for potential extensions and structural controls of the two main lenses of massive sulphide mineralization that host the mineral resource. Five of the ten holes have intersected massive sulphide mineralization. Assay results have been received for only the first four holes as shown in Table 2. The program has now commenced testing further step-out targets (within 300 to 2,000 metres from the two main lenses), including, follow-up of a 200-metre wide sulphide stringer zone that was intersected in hole PX-001 in 2019.

The highlight of this release are the assay results for hole PM20-04 which targeted the eastern edge of the West Lens at a depth of approximately 130 metres, where the massive sulphide horizon was thought to repeated by an open to tight Z-fold(s). The results now confirm this theory having intersected two lenses of massive sulphide, approximately 60 metres apart.

3.9 metres grading 18.97% ZnEq (8.36% Zn, 3.89% Pb1.91% Cu, 110.51 g/t Ag and 0.85 g/t Au - true width 2.7 metres ) from 154.8 to 158.7 metres; and

ZnEq - true width 2.7 metres from 154.8 to 158.7 metres; and 3.4 metres grading 24.62% ZnEq (11.98% Zn, 6.7% Pb, 1.3% Cu, 164.00 g/t Ag and 0.79 g/t Au - true width 2.7 metres) from 214.7 to 218.1 metres.

In addition, hole PM20-09 drilled 200 metres below PM20-04, intersected two lenses of massive sulphides and previous holes 18-23 and 18-23A, drilled another 180 to 200 metres deeper, intersected 4 to 5 lenses of massive sulphides. Based on drill data, the fold repetition of the West Lens massive sulphide, extends to a depth of 600 metres, and strike approximately 50 metres along strike and is open to depth. Assays for the two massive sulphides intersections in hole PM20-09 are still pending.

"The fold-repeated massive sulphide intercepts in holes PM20-04, PM20-09 and 18-23/23A, along with better than expected grades and a copper rich footwall stringer zone in PM20-02, (see release Sept 8, 2020), demonstrates the potential to add resources to the West Lens." stated Don Dudek, Vice President Exploration. "Any addition to the main zone massive sulphide resources could to lead to further improvements in the already robust Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) of the project that were announced on Sept 14th, 2020."

President and CEO, Ron Little stated, "Investors following our 2020 drill program have been keen to learn if additional massive sulphides occur on the property that could add to the potential project mining scenario of the PEA." While it is still too early to rule this out, we are pleased to conclude that our initial results bode well for the potential to further expand and upgrade resources proximal to the West Lens from surface to depth."

Deeper exploration drilling to test for the potential extension of the high-grade area of the West Lens is planned for next week.

Diamond Drilling Program Outline

Ten of the fifteen planned drill holes have been completed to date as per the drill plan outlined in the Pickett Mountain Project presentation and in the attached figure 1. In addition, Figure 2 is an updated vertical longitudinal section of the West and East lenses that presents the position of the recent drill hole pierce points. Those holes that have intersected massive sulphide and stringer mineralization have been sampled and sent to an independent laboratory for assessment. See Table 1. for description of the results for each hole to date. Laboratory turn-around time for assays has been approximately seven to eight weeks. The various holes are designed to test new targets and support the development of an updated geological model with a goal to discover additional resources proximal to the Pickett Mountain deposit.

Quality Assurance / Quality Control

Wolfden adheres to strict Quality Assurance and Quality Control protocols including routine insertion of blanks and certified reference standards in each sample batch of drill core that is sent to the lab for analyses. Drill core samples are split in half using a diamond saw with one half saved for reference and the other half shipped via secure transport to Activation Laboratories sample preparation facility in Fredericton, New Brunswick. Core samples are analyzed for zinc, lead, copper and silver utilizing 4-acid dissolution followed by ICP-OES (Code 8). Gold is analyzed by fire assay (30 g) utilizing AA finish (Code 1A2) and samples with over 5 g/t are analyzed by fire assay with gravimetric finish (Code 1A3). Silver over 100 g is analyzed by fire assay with gravimetric finish (Code 8-Ag).

About Wolfden and the Pickett Mountain Project

With the support of major investors Kinross Gold Corporation and Altius Minerals, Wolfden plans to explore and develop its wholly owned Pickett Mountain Project in Maine, USA, one of the highest-grade polymetallic projects in North America (Zn, Pb, Cu, Ag, Au). This relatively advanced project is well-located near excellent infrastructure which will support straight forward development.

Pickett Mountain PEA Base Case Model as at September 14, 2020 using a 7% ZnEq Cut-off

After-Tax IRR of 37% with a 2.4 year payback

After-Tax NPV8% of US$198 million to Wolfden for an underground mine plan scenario

Initial Capex of US$147 million including 20% contingency and closure costs

The PEA financial model used consensus metal prices assumptions of $1.15/lb Zinc, $1.00/lb Lead, $3.00/lb Copper, $18.00/oz Silver and $1,500/oz Gold. Full details of the Preliminary Economic Assessment in the form of a technical report for the purposes of NI 43-101 will be filed on SEDAR within the next 45 days. All financial figures are in US dollars

Pickett Mountain Mineral Resources* as at January 7, 2019 using a 9% ZnEq cut-off

2.05 Mt at 19.32% ZnEq of Indicated (9.9% Zn, 3.9% Pb, 1.4% Cu, 102 g/t Ag & 0.92 g/t Au)

2.03 Mt at 20.61% ZnEq of Inferred (11.0 % Zn, 4.4% lead, 1.2% Cu, 111 g/t Ag & 0.92 g/t Au)

Upcoming Milestones

5,000 metre exploration drill program underway to further expand resources and discover new zones

Approval of the ongoing rezoning petition in 2021 would be a significant milestone

Securing additional high-grade projects and exploration drill targets in Maine

The information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Don Dudek, P. Geo., VP Exploration, Jeremy Ouellette, P.Eng, VP Project Developments, and Ron Little P.Eng., President and CEO, who are Qualified Persons' under National Instrument 43-101. The metal prices used to determine Zinc Equivalent (ZnEq) grades are US$1.20/pound for zinc, US$1.00/pound for lead, US$2.50/pound for copper, US$16.00/troy ounce for silver, and US$1200/troy ounce for gold. For further information on the project, see technical report entitled "National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report, Pickett Mountain Project Resource Estimation Report, Penobscot County, Maine, USA" dated January 7, 2019.

For further information please contact Ron Little, President & CEO, at (807) 624-1136 or Rahim Lakha, Corporate Development at (416) 414-9954.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains forward-looking information (within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation) that involves various risks and uncertainties regarding future events. Such forward-looking information includes statements based on current expectations involving a number of risks and uncertainties and such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance of the Company, and include, without limitation, statements relating to metal price assumptions, cash flow forecasts, projected capital and operating costs, metal or mineral recoveries, mine life and production rates, and other assumptions used in Preliminary Economic Assessment dated September 14, 2020, infill drill results since 2019 that are expected to upgrade resources and could potentially lead to an increase in resources, information about future activities at the Pickett Mountain Project that include plans to complete additional drilling and pre-permitting (rezoning petition), the results of the Preliminary Economic Assessment dated September 14, 2020 and potential upside of the Pickett Mt. Project. There are numerous risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and the Company's plans and objectives to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking information in this news release, including without limitation, the following risks and uncertainties: (i) risks inherent in the mining industry; (ii) regulatory and environmental risks; (iii) results of exploration activities and development of mineral properties; (iv) risks relating to the estimation of mineral resources; (v) stock market volatility and capital market fluctuations; and (vi) general market and industry conditions. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. This forward-looking information is based on estimates and opinions of management on the date hereof and is expressly qualified by this notice. Risks and uncertainties about the Company's business are more fully discussed in the Company's disclosure materials filed with the securities regulatory authorities in Canada at www.sedar.com. The Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking information or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from such information unless required by applicable law.

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.

SOURCE: Wolfden Resources Corporation

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/608665/Wolfden-Announces-Pickett-Mt-Drill-Results-with-Multiple-Intercepts
Greg Trotter, a spokesman for the Greater Chicago Food Depository, said that some food pantries and other non-profits in the Chicago area have decided to remove the letters before distributing the packages to clients, some were troubled by the letters but dont have the time or manpower to remove them, and others were not bothered by the inclusion. He said it was inappropriate to include the letters in the boxes so close to the election even if the tone was not overtly political.
KYODO NEWS - Oct 1, 2020 - 15:05 | World, All

Top Afghan peace envoy Abdullah Abdullah on Wednesday stressed the need for a reduction in violence in Afghanistan, saying it is crucial for the success of peace talks with the Taliban under way in Doha, Qatar.

In an interview at the end of his three-day trip to Pakistan, Abdullah, who is overseeing peace efforts for the Afghan government, said he and civilian and military authorities in Pakistan are "on the same page."

Contrary to the expectations of ordinary Afghans, the start of dialogue between the Afghan groups to attain a permanent cease-fire has earned them no respite. Fighting has continued across most of the war-ravaged country, where the Taliban have stepped up attacks.

A reduction in violence was one of the major topics in Abdullah's discussions in Islamabad with Pakistani leaders as he sought their help in pushing the Taliban to agree.

"The security of the citizens has to be the first step," said Abdullah, who heads Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation. "The negotiating team there knows that this is the priority of the people."

Improved security, he said, is "the only way forward for maintaining the momentum behind the process and supporting it."

Pakistan has also been calling for violence to cease, but during Abdullah's visit, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi categorically said for the first time that it was a "pre-requisite for peace."

The Taliban have not agreed to scale back attacks. They appear to fear that an end to fighting would mean they are giving up an important bargaining chip in negotiations.

Abdullah said he is not happy at all with the "current pace of progress" made in the ongoing talks in Doha on the principles of the negotiations.

But with Taliban negotiators showing some flexibility, he said he was not "completely disappointed."

There are, however, areas where the gulf seems too wide to be bridged soon, including women's rights and freedom of expression, which have been embraced in post-Taliban Afghanistan.

"These are not reversible. People have made sacrifices for them," Abdullah said.

He said the way forward on these issues is not imposing each other's views, but finding ways to peacefully co-exist in society while contesting ideas through non-violent means.

After serving as foreign minister under President Hamid Karzai's government in the early 2000s, Abdullah ran in the 2014 presidential election.

After losing the race to Ashraf Ghani, Abdullah became the nation's chief executive, the No. 2 official in the government. Following his defeat to the incumbent in the 2019 presidential election, Abdullah agreed to a political deal with Ghani in May to become chairman of the High Council for National Reconciliation.
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Linkedin Jerome Taylor and Yan Zhao (Agence France-Presse) Hong Kong  Thu, October 1, 2020 15:15 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4876d41 2 World Hong-Kong,Carrie-Lam,Hong-Kong-protests,Hong-Kong-security-law Free

Hong Kong's leader Thursday hailed her city's "return to peace" after China imposed a security law that helped suppress a pro-democracy movement, as just a handful of people defied a heavy police presence and protested during National Day celebrations.

The People's Republic of China celebrates its founding on October 1 with a holiday and carefully choreographed festivities.

But in Hong Kong, it has become a day of grievance for those worried about authoritarian Beijing's intensifying crackdown against its opponents.

Protest has been effectively outlawed for most of this year and Beijing also imposed a strict national security law on the semi-autonomous business hub in June.

Helicopters flying the Chinese and Hong Kong flags buzzed over the harbor on Thursday morning as Chief Executive Carrie Lam and senior mainland officials attended a ceremony ringed by police and security barriers.

"Over the past few months, an indisputable fact in front of everyone is that our society has returned to peace," Lam said in her speech.

"Our country's national security has been protected in Hong Kong and our citizens can again exercise their rights and liberties in accordance with laws."

Last year, the 70th anniversary brought fierce clashes between protesters and police during seven months of democracy demonstrations that upended Hong Kong.

Authorities denied permission for a protest march this year, citing security concerns and an anti-coronavirus ban on more than four people gathering in public.

Lam's administration also suspended September local elections for a year -- one of the few occasions when Hong Kongers get to cast a vote -- citing the risk posed by the pandemic.

A police source told AFP that 6,000 police officers had been drafted in to stop any protests -- double the contingency usually placed on reserve.

'End one-party rule'

Throughout the day, groups of prominent democracy activists held small protests -- deliberately keeping to no more than four people.

"In today's China, those who pursue freedom are suppressed while those doing the suppressing are in power," activist Lee Cheuk-yan told reporters.

One group, surrounded by some 40 police officers, chanted "End one-party rule" and burned a protest petition.

Others gathered outside the heavily guarded Liaison Office that represents Beijing's government in the city.

A day earlier, office director Luo Huining gave a speech calling for more patriotism to be instilled in Hong Kong, saying pride in the motherland was a duty, not a choice.

Police maintained a high presence throughout the city on Thursday, conducting multiple stop and searches.

In the busy shopping hub of Causeway Bay -- which saw many clashes last year -- riot police hoisted banners telling crowds to disperse after they received heckles.

"Today is not a day of celebration... it is time for the world to be aware of how the Communist Party silences the voice of Hong Kong," prominent activist Joshua Wong told reporters shortly before being moved on by officers.

Five people were arrested earlier in the week on suspicion of inciting others to protest and commit violent acts.

For most of this year, protest has been all but impossible in Hong Kong.

On the rare occasions when demonstrations do bubble up, riot police and plain-clothes officers move quickly -- on one day last month nearly 300 people were arrested.

Over the last 16 months, more than 10,000 have been detained during protests with courts facing a backlog of trials, including of many prominent protest leaders.

New security law

The crackdown has been aided by the national security law that China imposed on the city in June.

The broadly worded legislation criminalized expressing certain opinions, deepened the political chill in the city and allowed mainland China's security apparatus to operate openly in Hong Kong for the first time.

The security law has led to sanctions by the United States and condemnation by many other Western nations.

But Beijing and Hong Kong authorities say it is needed to restore stability.

"The national security law will absolutely stop rabble-rousers in Hong Kong from having their capricious way," China's Liaison Office said this week.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 1)  President Rodrigo Duterte met with Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano on Wednesday, hours after the head of the House of Representatives offered to resign from his post amid a leadership tussle.

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque on Thursday said Cayetano's wife Lani and sister, Senator Pia Cayetano, joined the meeting. He denied Cayetano arranged the event, saying Rep. Eddie Villanueva scheduled it weeks ago to pray over the President.

During the meeting, Roque recalled that the President told Cayetano he respects the decision of the 184 lawmakers who rejected the House Speaker's offer to immediately step down so Marinduque Rep. Lord Allan Velasco can take over the top position to uphold their term-sharing deal.

"The President has said he will not interfere beyond reminding the parties to honor the agreement. Hanggang doon lang ang posisyon ng Presidente. Iyan ang sinabi niya two weeks ago, pero kahapon ang sinabi na nga niya, eh with everything that has happened in the House, he accepts the decision of the lawmakers," he said in a media briefing held in Bataan.

[Translation: The President has said he will not interfere beyond reminding the parties to honor the agreement, that was his position, that's what he said two weeks ago. But as of yesterday, after what happened in the House, he accepts the decision of the lawmakers.]

Roque said he is unsure if the Taguig-Pateros representative will once again attempt to resign on October 14  the resignation date he and Velasco agreed on during their meeting on Tuesday with Duterte, who mediated in the ongoing term-sharing squabble.

Under the term-sharing agreement brokered by Duterte in 2019, Cayetano was supposed to serve as Speaker for the first 15 months or until October this year. Velasco would then take over the post for the succeeding 21 months.

Following the overwhelming vote of the House, Roque said the President only stressed to Cayetano the need to pass the 2021 budget on time.

Velasco lambasted Cayetano for his offer to immediately resign, describing it as political maneuverings and theatrics that affected the ongoing budget deliberations in the chamber.

Cayetano opted to resign on Wednesday  two weeks ahead of the plan in the midst of House deliberations for the 2021 national budget. The chamber decided to suspend the budget deliberations until Friday morning.

In a statement, Cayetano welcomed Duterte's decision to honor the decision of the House to reject the Speaker's resignation.

In this, I welcome the many statements of the President upholding the independence of Congress, and respecting the votes of confidence given by its members to the present leadership and finally putting this controversy to rest, he said.

A great 2021 budget

If his colleagues had accepted his resignation, Cayetano said he was ready to spend the next two weeks helping in the work to quickly approve the budget.

Yesterday, I went to Congress with a heavy heart, knowing that I would be offering my resignation, and with it the possibility that it would be time to go without being able to fulfill my promise to deliver a great 2021 budget, he said in a Facebook post.

Still, I was comforted by the thought that maybe, by giving up the last two weeks of my term to Cong. Velasco, I would still be able contribute to the swift passage of this crucial piece of legislation by avoiding problems in a potentially contentious transition, Cayetano continued.

The Speaker said he was prepared for what would happen next.

Addressing his colleagues in the chamber, Cayetano said, As far as this Speakership issue is concerned, whatever else happens from this moment on, I am satisfied. I do not crave for anything more, because nothing can surpass the warmth of your approval.
DENVER, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- HousingWire announced today that Kentwood Real Estate President and CEO Gretchen Rosenberg has been honored with its 2020 HW Vanguard Award. Rosenberg was selected for her outstanding leadership and for being a leader within the housing industry by "moving markets forward, each and every day" and positively contributing to the growth of the housing economy.

"In the program's most competitive year yet, 50 winners rose to the top, boasting their outstanding achievements in innovation and leadership," said HousingWire Magazine Editor Kelsey Ramirez. HousingWire's 2020 Vanguards have led their respective companies to spectacular success, as evidenced by expanding products, services, and profits.

"The achievements of this year's Vanguards are hard to overstate," said HousingWire Editor in Chief Sarah Wheeler. "They are leading some of the most iconic and successful mortgage and real estate companies in the world, and adapting and innovating even in the midst of a global pandemic. The Vanguards represent the industry's best and brightest, and we are excited to celebrate Gretchen Rosenberg's remarkable accomplishments."

As President and CEO of Kentwood Real Estate, Rosenberg's role first and foremost is to support Kentwood brokers. Today, Rosenberg leads Kentwood's growing elite team of over 240 Realtors in Colorado's finest luxury brokerage, which has produced more volume per agent than 99% of all real estate companies in the United States.

Under Rosenberg's leadership, Kentwood Broker Associates closed over $2 billion in total sales volume and closed over 3,000 transactions last year. The overall average sales price notably rose year over year to $767,556 with four of the top 10 highest-priced home sales in metro Denver, more than any other brokerage in the top 10, according to REColorado data.

Additionally, Rosenberg has led Kentwood through the COVID-19 crisis. Stay-at-home orders disrupted what would have been a record-breaking start of the 2020 spring residential real estate rush. As other brokerages scrambled for direction, Rosenberg's proactive leadership kept Kentwood's brokers in front of the crisis by issuing guidance with every new milestone.

The exclusive affiliate of Berkshire Hathaway's HomeServices of America in Colorado, Kentwood Real Estate produces more sales volume per agent than 99 percent of all real estate companies in the U.S. For more information, visit www.Kentwood.com.

SOURCE Kentwood Real Estate

Related Links

https://www.kentwood.com


(Newser)  Federal funding ran out when the new fiscal year started at midnight, which would normally trigger a shutdownbut agencies waited for President Trump to return from a Minnesota rally and sign a stopgap spending bill. A similar funding lapse happened "with little consequence" for a few hours in February 2018, the Hill notes. The spending bill, which passed the House last week and was approved by the Senate in an 84-10 vote Wednesday evening, provides funds to keep the government open through Dec. 11, avoiding a shutdown just weeks before the election, reports Reuters.

story continues below

The Office of Management and Budget warned federal agencies Wednesday that the measure, which keeps agencies running at current funding levels, might not be signed until after the deadline, Politico reports. The stopgap measure was necessary because the Senate has not acted on any of the 12 annual discretionary spending bills that fund around 30% of the government, reports the AP. The House passed 10 of the bills months ago. In their post-election, lame-duck session, Congress will either have to pass a massive spending package or another stopgap extension. Politico notes that the former could be an "enormous lift," since it will possibly coincide "with a presidential transition and an exodus of lawmakers eager to leave town after losing reelection." (Read more government shutdown stories.)
VIENNA  Community members gathered for a demonstration at Vienna City Park on Sunday afternoon after rumors began swirling last month about a social media group connected to high school students allegedly titled We hate Black people.

Demonstrators condemned what they saw as the schools failure to directly address racism as it relates to the alleged social media groups name. I am here today to bring attention that racism is a problem here, said Sean Lasley, the uncle of a biracial freshman student at Vienna High School. Im of the mindset that when we see racism and refuse to call it what it is, were complicit in that racism.

Superintendent Joshua Stafford suggested parents talk to their children and their peers about the appropriate use of technology in an Aug. 29 statement while addressing a Snapchat group with an inappropriate name. But, Stafford said in a Tuesday interview, he did not mention the groups allegedly racist name at the advice of the schools legal counsel and local law enforcement.

Lasley said he was angered that the social media group was not called racism and instead was called an improper use of social media by school officials, and called the handling of the case an attempt to sweep it under the rug. The appearance of the social media group in their rural community, he said, has given the community an opportunity to stand arm-in-arm with the African Americans in this community and disavow racism.

Stafford said in a Sept. 23 written statement that racism will not be tolerated in Vienna schools. We welcome all students from diverse backgrounds and experiences and, I, nor our school, will tolerate racism in our school or anywhere else and we will continue working to address, educate, and eliminate it, he said.

A group of about 70 demonstrators gathered at Vienna City Park Sunday afternoon as part of an event organized by the So. Ill. Unity Coalition, and speakers talked about racism in the community and schools. Kenji Waddy, a freshman at Vienna High School who is biracial, said he had experienced microaggressions at the school, and he said he hopes that doesnt happen to anyone else.

Waddy said hes had to deal with microaggressions, or indirect discrimination against members of a marginalized group, throughout his life. Many kids would say can I touch your hair (and) Im almost as dark as you, he said. I just want parents to educate their kids.

Some at the rally noted Viennas contentious past with race, noting Vienna had been recognized as a sundown town  a community where some were not welcome because of the color of their skin. James Loewen, a sociologist and emeritus professor at the University of Vermont who studies sundown towns, wrote about a 1950s incident in the rural Southern Illinois town that likely developed anti-Black sentiments in the community.

In the summer of 1954, two Black men beat up a white grandmother and allegedly tried to rape her teenage granddaughter, he wrote in his 2005 book Sundown Towns: A Hidden Dimension of American Racism, referencing a 2004 interview with a Vienna resident. The grandmother eventually died, and every (white) man in town was deputized to find the culprits, Loewen writes. The men were eventually caught, and in the aftermath "whites sacked the entire Black community, even setting fire to many of their homes. No one was ever convicted of the arson.

Today, over 98% of the people who live in Vienna are white, according to the U.S. Census Bureaus 2018 American Community Survey five-year estimates  under 10 Black-identifying individuals were projected to live in the community. Three Black-identifying children attend Vienna High School and one Black-identifying child attends Vienna Grade School, according to 2019-2020 data from the Illinois State Board of Education.

Some say its not fair to paint the town of about 1,400 as racist or hold an entire race accountable because of single actions and incidents that have occurred in the generations prior.

I wasnt alive back then. I didnt exist. All I can say is what we are now and thats not us, said Don Brown of Cypress. Were not racist, we're not xenophobes, we never have been, he said, while adding people in their community don't look at race, creed or color and judge people by their character, not the color of their skin.

Brown and a group of roughly a dozen trucks surrounded the pavilion where the So. Ill Unity Coalitions demonstration was occurring on Sunday. Their trucks were outfitted with American flags, Confederate flags, and pro-Donald Trump imagery.

One truck bore an American flag modified with a Three Percenter emblem. The organization is a diffuse, bottom-up militia, according to a Politico profile, with the group itself claiming inspiration from the "rough estimate" that only 3% of American colonists took up arms against the British forces. The Southern Poverty Law Center, which tracks hate groups, calls Three Percenters an "anti-government" group with chapters nationwide.

Jeff Messemore, who is originally from Vienna, said the group was present to support Trump and their American freedoms. He said they and others have the right to assemble as long as everything remains peaceful.

If they want to protest, we applaud, Messemore said. Speak your mind  this is America, that is what America is about. But, he noted, the moment people start to destroy something, those within that community shouldnt wait for the law and take care of their property.

Messemore said he feels like he has been labeled as a racist because hes a white man from a redneck town who wears a cowboy hat. Skin color is irrelevant if you act like a decent human being, humility goes a long way, he said.

Chastity Mays, a member of the So. Ill. Unity Coalition who has three children, said she empathized with Brandee Lasley, Waddys mother, when she reached out to the community group about doing a demonstration in Vienna. My heart knows what her heart is feeling  thats that hurt, she said. For Kenji to have to go to school and experience racism, thats just not right.

Mays said the community needs to stand up for what is right, including Stafford, Vienna High School Principal John Giffin and the Vienna Board of Education. There needs to be an assembly and it needs to be said we will not stand for this racism, she said. We will not allow you to make these children feel unsafe in their own community.

Emily Harris, one of the demonstrations organizers from Vienna, said she no longer could stand behind as people of color felt as if their life lacked value in the world because of the color of their skin. She said she realized having Black friends and Black family and simply not being racist was not enough so she helped organize the demonstration.

Harris said she was fearful of speaking out previously, but asked those in attendance to consider how scary it is to live with the fear of being gunned down on your daily jog or being suffocated to death with a police officers knee in your back as you begged for your mom, apparently referencing the deaths earlier this year of Ahmaud Arbery in Georgia and George Floyd in Minneapolis.

The fear we face standing up is nothing in comparison to the fear people of color face just for being alive, she said. As a white woman, I have the privilege and the power that is my skin and my voice to fight everyday to stand up for every single person of color that has ever felt like their life was not valued due to the color of their skin.

Despite tense moments between the two groups in attendance, the demonstrations stayed peaceful. At one point, a few of the Trump supporters joined demonstrators in a prayer calling for an end for injustice and hatred.

I believe if were on the side of right, and on the side of God, then we can come together as brothers and sisters in Christ, said Darrell Wimberly, a pastor at East Liberty Christian Church in Marion. We need to leave all the hatred and all that behind  theres a change coming. Were either part of the problem or part of the solution.

After a series of speakers addressed the crowd, the group marched around the park and ended in front of the Trump supporters, where debate ensued. Heated ideological and political dialogue was held, including the meaning behind the Black Lives Matter movement and systemic racism.

Brandee Lasley said the rally was held to bring the community together and spread awareness that racism is still alive. She said it was never about a particular political movement or police, even though it may have been misconstrued as that.

In reflecting on earlier debate, Lasley said she wants people to know she doesnt believe everyone is racist. But, she said, she simply wants people to stop talking and start listening to people of color in the community and their lived experiences.

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The Government has suggested commercial landlords provide concessions for businesses that are in difficultly.

The concessions include a full or partial rent-free period for a number of payment periods.

Among the other suggested options are that tenants and landlords agree to split the cost of the rent between them, and the introduction of rental variations to reduce ongoing payments to a current market rate.

This is part of a new voluntary Code of Conduct that has been agreed between landlords and business representatives for commercial renters.

The code, which will apply until July next year, asks commercial landlords to provide concessions where they can and where this is not possible, asks them to set out clearly the reasons for this.

Launching the initiative, Tanaiste Leo Varadkar said: I know that some firms are concerned about how they are going to continue to pay the rent due for their business premises.

Throughout this crisis, the Government has been encouraging commercial tenants and landlords to engage with each other and have asked landlords to show forbearance in these extraordinary times. Ultimately, its in the best interest of both parties to come to a reasonable arrangement, he added.

The launch of the Code of Conduct comes at a time when businesses are struggling to get back of their feet due to the economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, Damien English, said: This is a complex issue and there was broad agreement among stakeholders on all sides that Government could not intervene in the market in a heavy-handed way, but we are conscious some steps needed to be taken to address the impact Covid-19 has had on commercial rents and leases."

"This voluntary Code of Conduct sets out best practice and will help facilitate conversations between commercial landlords and tenants.
After months of avoiding direct contact with voters because of the pandemic, Joe Biden s campaign is about to launch in-person canvassing efforts across several battleground states

The decision comes amid growing concern from Democratic officials on the ground in key states who fear that Biden has been giving a significant advantage to President Donald Trump and his Republican allies, who have been aggressively courting voters at their doorsteps for months. The reversal also reflects a sense of rising urgency as polls tighten in key states just a month before Election Day.

Bidens campaign, which detailed the new effort to The Associated Press, insists that its existing phone and online voter-outreach operation is effective. The new plans will build upon what's already in place, not replace it.

Our voter contact operation is the most innovative and technologically advanced of any presidential campaign in history, and it has been thriving in this unprecedented environment," Biden campaign manager Jenn O'Malley Dillon said.

"Were now expanding on our strategy in a targeted way that puts the safety of communities first and foremost and helps us mobilize voters who are harder to reach by phone now that were in the final stretch  and now that Americans are fully dialed-in and ready to make their voices heard.

Biden this weekend will dispatch several hundred newly trained volunteers to engage voters across Nevada, Michigan, New Hampshire and Pennsylvania. The effort, focusing on voters who are considered difficult to reach by phone, is expected to spread into several more battleground states and include many more volunteers in the next few days and weeks.

Campaign officials and volunteers acknowledge their virtual-contact strategy had holes they're hoping to fill with in-person conversations.

Its just harder and harder to get people on the phone, said Patrick Sullivan, a Biden volunteer who lives in suburban Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. So being able to go to someone's door and talk to them makes a big difference.

Trump's campaign and allied Republican groups have been having in-person contacts with voters since at least June. Republican National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel told the AP over the summer that her team was knocking on roughly one million doors each week.

Democratic officials have been extremely critical of the GOP's tactics. Lily Adams, a spokesperson for the Democratic National Committee, tweeted in August that the Trump campaign was risking the lives of their staff, the lives of voters and risking becoming a super spreader organization during the middle of a pandemic."

While Biden leads many polls, lingering questions remain about the commitment of his supporters to actually vote. To defeat Trump, Democrats will need strong turnout from every piece of his broad coalition, including groups that typically don't vote in large numbers, such as younger Americans and African Americans.

And with the pandemic still raging, voters in 2020 face unprecedented challenges in getting to the polls.

It is possible that without the face-to-face-engagement, you may have a few voters who fall off, said Mairi Luce, an attorney and a Biden volunteer who lives in Philadelphia. But passions run high on both sides, and a lot of people are motivated to vote. I don't think there are a lot of undecided voters out there.

Ahead of the voter outreach expansion, Biden's campaign has already opened 109 supply centers across 17 battleground states to help distribute campaign literature, lawn signs and other materials for the canvassers.

Biden volunteers in Pennsylvania and Nevada began dropping campaign literature at voters' homes just last weekend, although they were instructed to avoid any direct conversations. Those conversations will begin this weekend following a series of training sessions designed to ensure Biden's team can engage with people at doorsteps as safely as possible.

All volunteers involved will be provided personal protective equipment, including masks, and will have their temperatures checked. The campaign also plans to send batches of text messages telling voters to expect a knock at their door before volunteers enter a neighborhood.

Biden's team is particularly focused on ensuring his supporters have updated information about how and where to vote as early as possible. Literature used in Pennsylvania in recent days, for example, encourages people to make a specific plan to vote  either by mail, in person early voting or in person on Election Day.

Even before Biden executes his new plan, Democrats are leading Republicans in some early voting prodding. For example, registered Democrats have been issued far more mail and absentee ballots than Republicans in Florida, Iowa and Pennsylvania, according to data collected by The Associated Press.
Anurag Kashyap

Mumbai: Anurag Kashyap arrived at the Versova police station here on Thursday after he was summoned by police in connection with rape case filed against him by actress Payal Ghosh, an official said.

Kashyap along with his two associates reached the police station around 10 am, he said.

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Anurag KashyapHis lawyer also reached the police station after some time, the official said.

The police on Wednesday issued summons to Kashyap in connection with the rape case against him.

The Versova police registered an FIR against Kashyap on September 22 after the actress along with her lawyer Nitin Satpute approached the police, the official said.

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Payal Ghosh and Anurag Kashyap

In her police complaint, the actress alleged that Kashyap raped her in 2013.

The Versova police last week registered the FIR against Kashyap under Indian Penal Code Sections 376 (I) (rape), 354 (assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty,), 341 (wrongful restraint) and 342 (wrongful confinement).
Doctors are warning the Morrison government to boost funding to public hospitals hit with higher costs due to COVID-19 as state governments grapple with a backlog of cancelled elective surgeries and an expected surge in demand from patients who delayed seeking medical care.

The Australian Medical Association has issued a warning that the current hospital funding agreement between the Commonwealth and the states will leave public hospitals "chronically underfunded" at a time when they face increased costs.

AMA president Omar Khorshid said hospitals faced ongoing cost impacts - with operating theatre efficiency decreased by 50 per cent when there was COVID-19 in the community, due to the need for personal protective equipment - and that the federal government must "do its fair share".

Public hospitals are facing higher costs as they grapple with the impacts of COVID-19. Credit:iStock

Public hospitals had already been "bursting at the seams" before the pandemic hit, Dr Khorshid said, with changes made to deal with COVID-19 now adding to emergency room wait times and ambulance ramping, along with ballooning elective surgery wait lists.
JACKSON, MI  Heidi Cowleys attorney says she was targeted by a scammer who promised her love and attention if only she could help him financially.

But the man wasnt even real.
Mumbai: Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap arrived at the Versova police station here on Thursday after he was summoned by police in connection a rape case filed against him by actress Payal Ghosh, an official said. Kashyap along with his two associates reached the police station around 10 am, he said.

The filmmaker was seen carrying some documents in his hand while arriving at the police station. His lawyer also reached the police station after some time, the official said.

The police on Wednesday issued summons to Kashyap in connection with the rape case against him. The Versova police registered an FIR against Kashyap on September 22 after the actress along with her lawyer Nitin Satpute approached the police, the official said.

In her police complaint, the actress alleged that Kashyap raped her in 2013. On Tuesday, Ghosh and Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale met Maharashtra Governor B S Koshyari to seek action against Kashyap.

On Monday, Ghosh in a joint media press conference with Athawale, president of the Republican Party of India (RPI-A), demanded that Kashyap be arrested. Athawale on Monday met Mumbais joint commissioner of police (law and order) Vishwas Nangare Patil along with Ghosh, seeking action against the filmmaker.

The Union minister had also said his party will stage a protest if the police do not arrest Kashyap in a week. The Versova police last week registered the FIR against Kashyap under Indian Penal Code Sections 376 (I) (rape), 354 (assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty,), 341 (wrongful restraint) and 342 (wrongful confinement).
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo arrived Thursday at the Vatican to meet with top Holy See officials, a day after tensions over American opposition to the Vaticans China policy spilled out in public.

Pompeo was meeting with the Vatican secretary of state, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, and the foreign minister, Archbishop Paul Gallagher. The Vatican declined his request to see Pope Francis, citing Holy See policy to not grant papal audiences during election campaigns, Parolin said.

Pompeo was in Rome to participate in a conference on religious freedom organized by the US Embassy to the Holy See, and to meet with Italian and Vatican officials.

During the Wednesday conference, Pompeo urged the Vatican to join the US in denouncing violations of religious freedom in China, part of the US campaign to criticize Beijings crackdown on religious and ethnic minorities that has increased amid the coronavirus pandemic and before the Nov. 3 election.

The conference was organized at the same time the Vatican is entering into delicate negotiations with Beijing on extending their controversial 2018 agreement on nominating bishops for China.

The Vatican is seeking to extend the accord, which envisages a process of dialogue in selecting bishops. It signed it in 2018 in hopes it would help unite Chinas Catholics, who for seven decades have been split between those belonging to an official, state-sanctioned church and an underground church loyal to Rome.

Pompeo has strongly criticized the accord, penning an essay earlier this month suggesting that the Vatican had compromised its moral authority by signing it. His article greatly irritated the Vatican, which saw it as interference in the churchs internal affairs for the sake of scoring domestic political points.

The Vatican secretary of state, Parolin, said the Holy See was surprised by Pompeos article. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the conference, Parolin said the private meetings Pompeo had scheduled at the Vatican would have been the more appropriate setting to express his concerns, Italian news agency ANSA reported.

Pompeo started his day Thursday visiting the Rome-based SantEgidio Community, a Catholic charity active in caring for refugees in Italy and providing HIV-AIDS care in Africa. Arriving at SantEgidios headquarters, Pompeo praised the groups efforts as the Lords work.
The Detroit City Council voted 6-3 on Tuesday to extend a software support contract with the provider of facial recognition technology used by the city police department despite broad-based public opposition to the system.

A majority of the Council of nine Democrats voted to approve a two-year, $220,000 upgrade and maintenance contract with South Carolina-based DataWorks Plus from whom the city originally purchased its facial recognition technology platform in 2017.

Promotional image of the case management module of the FACE Plus facial recognition system from DataWorks Plus (Photo credit: DataWorksPlus.com)

The vote at the virtual council meeting on Tuesday was preceded by a one-hour public comment period in which callers overwhelmingly opposed the renewal of the contract with DataWorks Plus.

The opposition to reapproval of the facial recognition surveillance tools used by the Detroit Police Department (DPD) also took the form of a car caravan protest that drove past the home of Councilman Andre Spivey, a proponent of the citys system, during the meeting.

The previous three-year contract between Detroit and DataWorks Plus for its FACE Watch Plus real-time video surveillance system expired in July and the City Council put off a scheduled vote at that time on the renewal amid growing public opposition. Protests against police violence in Detroit, as part of the nationwide movement that was sparked by the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis on May 25, have also taken up the demand for putting a halt to the use of facial recognition by DPD.

With the endorsement of Democratic Party Mayor Mike Duggan, Detroit purchased the facial recognition system for $1 million in 2017 without public review or discussion. The system has been integrated into the much-touted Project Green Light program, a public-private partnership where business owners pay for the installation of video surveillance cameras on their premises, which are connected to the DPDs Real Time Crime Center in downtown Detroit.

The face images captured on the 600 surveillance cameras across the city are being checked by DPD against various mug shot and drivers license photo databases to identify individuals within minutes. Detroit Police Captain Aric Tosqui claimed on Tuesday that the FACE Watch Plus system was used 106 times this year, resulting in 64 matches and assisting in 12 arrests.

However, in at least two instances, individuals were misidentified by the system and wrongfully arrested by DPD. Michael Oliver, 25, was arrested and charged with felony larceny in May 2019 after police uploaded a cellphone video into the facial recognition system and it falsely returned his identity. Robert Williams, from Farmington Hills, Michigan, was arrested in front of his family in January of this year and falsely accused of stealing expensive Shinola watches based on video surveillance images from a retail store that were processed by DPD.

The use of facial recognition systems by law enforcement is on the rise across the country by city, state and federal agencies despite massive public opposition and the fact that the technologies violate constitutionally protected rights of free speech and against unreasonable searches and seizures. These increasingly integrated systems are gathering face images of everyone 24/7 in public spaces, enabling police agencies to identify where people are, what they are doing and who they are with at all times.

Speaking at a recent public hearing, Art Thompson, Detroits Director of Public Safety and Cyber Security, said, We already own the license to operate the software (and) we already bought and own the software  it is a part of what DPD has access to. Its no different than buying a cell phone ... for a few years you get upgrades and at some point, when those upgrades stop, you still own the hardware. The citys information technology department also said that there were ways to cover the costs of the maintenance contract without council approval anyway.

In other words, the DPD was going to continue using the facial recognition system regardless of the Council vote. This means that the Democrats on the City Council who are in favor of the technology wanted to go on record supporting the invasive system as part of their law-and-order politics.

City Councilman Gabe Leland, who voted for the contract, talked about a delicate balancing act between empowering DPD with more tools, empowering victims and also protecting the general public. Detroit Councilman Roy McCalister Jr. claimed, nothing is 100% and, People who are just living their daily lives and who are attacked, we want to make sure their constitutional rights and their privileges are just as much protected as well.

The councilmen are echoing the position of the Detroit Board of Police Commissioners Chair Willie Bell, who released a statement that said, Facial recognition is part of 21st Century policing, just as DNA became part of policing in the last century. Bell claimed that the use of facial recognition tools can be part of constitutional, community-focused policing and safer communities  working together, and building up each other, our families and our city.

Many of the most outspoken opponents of facial recognition technology in Detroit are preoccupied with study results that have shown higher error rates by the systems when matching face images of people with darker skin. This fact has fueled a campaign based entirely upon racial considerations rather than the fundamental democratic and class issues posed by secret around-the-clock government surveillance of the public.

Meanwhile, according to a recent report by the bipartisan Center for Strategic and International Studies, the accuracy of facial recognition technologies has improved dramatically in recent years. The report says, As of April 2020, the best face identification algorithm has an error rate of just 0.08% compared to 4.1% for the leading algorithm in 2014, according to tests by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

As the resolution and color sensitivity of video cameras have advanced with 4K technology and the processing power of computers, along with improvements to artificial intelligence and deep learning systems, the error rates are dropping dramatically.

As previously explained on the World Socialist Web Site, the preoccupation with racial disparities in facial recognition algorithms is aimed at assisting the state with making improvements to the systems and rendering them less likely to misidentify individuals of all racial groups rather than demanding an immediate halt to the illegal surveillance of the public.
Christina Oxenberg said Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will 'do well' in the US

Her mother is Princess Elizabeth of Yugoslavia, a cousin of Prince Charles

Said Americans are 'easy to please' and less critical than the British public

Added: 'What draws scorn in England will be applauded in the States'

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will have a bright future in the US because Americans are 'easy to please', a royal cousin has claimed.

Socialite Christina Oxenberg, 57, is the daughter of Princess Elizabeth of Yugoslavia, a second cousin of Prince Charles. She has recently made headlines by speaking out on her old acquaintance Ghislaine Maxwell.

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Writing in Tatler, Christina, who was born in the US, said the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are celebrated by the American public, who are 'charmed' to have their own 'real life princess'.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will have a bright future in the US because Americans are 'easy to please', a royal cousin has claimed. Pictured, Harry and Meghan in Morocco last year

'Possibly too much is expected by the Brits from England's one-time most eligible bachelor and his actress wife,' she wrote.

'To be adored in America, all Harry and Meghan need to do is pick up a dog from a shelter. Americans are easy to please. What draws scorn in England will be applauded in the States.'

She added that the press coverage will be 'positive rather than petulant' and that American journalists are likely to treat the couple 'very well'.

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The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have made a number of appearances since moving to California, where they are living in a Santa Barbara mansion.

Most recently Meghan spoke at the Fortune's Most Powerful Women summit, where she said she pays no mind to public 'flattery or criticism' about her and hit out at the media for 'misinterpreting' remarks she has made in order to make them sound more 'controversial' or 'inflammatory'.

Despite insisting that she does not focus on anything said or written about her, Meghan defended herself against past controversies, alleging that any time 'anything she has said... ends up being inflammatory', it only comes a result of 'people's interpretation of it'.

Socialite Christina Oxenberg, 57, is the daughter of Princess Elizabeth of Yugoslavia, a second cousin of Prince Charles. She has spoken about Harry and Meghan's future in the US

'If you listen to what I actually say, it's not controversial,' she added.

'I have already settled it for myself so flattery and criticism go down the same drain and I am quite free,' she quoted, while adding her own sentiments, claiming that she feels 'liberated' from opinions about her.

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'And the moment you are able to be liberated from all these other opinions of what you know to be true, then I think its just very easy to just live with peace and live with authenticity,' she said. 'And that is how I choose to move through the world.'

The words are at odds with Meghan and Prince Harry's ongoing war against the media, which has seen the Duchess of Sussex repeatedly decry the 'toxicity' that she believes the couple has faced.

Earlier this year Christina made headlines when she spoke out in defence of scandal-hit Prince Andrew, who is also a cousin.

She said Andrew did not know he was being 'used' by Jeffrey Epstein and she hopes he will help investigators with their probe into the deceased American billionaire.

'He did idiotic things,' Ms Oxenberg said in an interview with Fox News. 'But he's not a paedophile. He's not a sex ring organizer.

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'I'm sure he's filled with regret and remorse. He loves his family. He's duty-bound. He loves his mother and doesn't want to bring her grief.'
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 12:21:27|Editor: huaxia

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SHANGHAI, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Shanghai reported seven imported COVID-19 cases and no domestically transmitted cases on Wednesday, the municipal health commission said Thursday.

All the seven confirmed cases are Chinese nationals. Six of them departed from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Turkey, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Guinea, and Ethiopia, where they were working. One was a tourist who had been stranded in Canada due to the pandemic and arrived in Shanghai on Monday, the commission said.

They have been sent to designated medical institutions for treatment.

A total of 202 close contacts of the seven cases on the same flights have been put under quarantine.

As of Wednesday, the city had reported a total of 664 imported confirmed cases of COVID-19, of which 612 have been discharged from hospitals after recovery and 52 remain admitted. Enditem
President Trump is weak

President Donald Trump may believe mouthing the words, law and order makes him strong, but his failure to call on his own supporters to stop acting as an armed militia in this country shows how weak he is.

When Trump says, You wont be safe Joe Bidens America, lets look at Trumps America: COVID runs unchecked throughout the country, killing over 200,000 Americans; violent hate crimes and threats have reached their highest levels in the U.S. in 16 years; and more police have died of COVID-19 this year than on patrol.

Former Vice President Joe Biden is offering a different vision. He said a president should try to lower the temperature and bring people who disagree with one another together. Joe Biden has said repeatedly that we must stand against violence in every form it takes including the violence of unwarranted police shootings and excessive force; the senseless violence of looting, burning, and destruction of property; and the violence of extremists  right-wing militias, white supremacists and vigilantes.

If you think this only happens in large metropolitan cities such as New York, Portland, and Seattle, guess again. Right here in Council Bluffs we have members of the Board of Supervisors who have said they have never seen racism in Pottawattamie County. Armed militia were allowed at our courthouse for which no law enforcement has taken responsibility, and we have elected officials who have praised the militias actions.

Joe Biden is going to bring Americans together to address the challenges our country faces, and he will put the country ahead of personal and political self-interest. Joe Bidens America will provide clear, consistent, evidence-based national guidance for how communities should navigate the pandemic and the needed resources for schools, small businesses, and families. His America will be safe from attacks on Social Security and the Affordable Care Act and with it, protections for pre-existing conditions. Well be safe from a president determined to install fear in America and safe from four more years of Donald Trump.

Geri Frederiksen

Council Bluffs

Grassley has unprecedented record

Your Sept. 22 editorial says the U.S. Senate must wait until 2021 to fill Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburgs vacancy on the Supreme Court. You call upon Sen. Chuck Grassley to be consistent with his position in 2016. And yet, your position is inconsistent with your position in 2016. Then, you said the Senate should proceed with the confirmation process. Now, you say the Senate must wait until after the election.

Justice Scalias death created a Supreme Court vacancy in 2016, a presidential election year and one with divided government between a Republican Senate Majority and outgoing Democratic president. President Barack Obama exercised his constitutional duty and named a nominee. The Senate exercised its constitutional duty and withheld its consent. This is how our system of checks and balances works.

As then-chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Sen. Grassley said it was important for voters to cast their ballots before filling the vacancy at a time of divided government. You also remind readers about the Biden rule. Back in 1992, then-Sen. Joe Biden held that a Supreme Court nomination should not be considered in an election year. In 2016, Biden changed his mind and said a nomination should be considered in an election year. Now in 2020, Bidens back to the future position is not to fill a vacancy in an election year. Confusing? Yes!

As the Democratic nominee for president, Biden says he wants to restore the soul of America. Its a hard promise to swallow when you consider the savage tactics of his party to win at all costs. Dont forget Harry Reid took the nuclear option and stripped away filibuster rights for the minority party. Now Chuck Schumer says nothing is off the table. They will do whatever it takes to win.

If you dont believe me, ask Judge Robert Bork, Judge Miguel Estrada, Justice Clarence Thomas and Justice Brett Kavanaugh.

Sen. Grassley hasnt changed his spots since Iowans elected him to represent us. Hes honest, accountable and cares what Iowans think. How refreshing and reassuring! Hes visited every county in Iowa, for 40 years in a row. He holds the longest voting streak in U.S. Senate history. Your editorial says a precedent has been set. That is correct! Chuck Grassley has set an unprecedented record for keeping in touch and representing Iowans. I trust Chuck Grassley, every day of the week, to fight for us here in rural America.

Rozanne King

Mondamin

Nonpareil editorial response: If Sen. Grassley and his fellow Republicans had held nomination hearings on Merrick Garland in 2016, our Sept. 22 editorial wouldve been drastically different  the two nominations are essentially the same situation, with a different set of rules applied to each. All were asking for is consistency. Thank you for your letter.

David Youngs promises dont match his votes

I know Im not the only Iowan worried about being able to afford my familys health insurance coverage these days. Frankly, the rising number of Iowas coronavirus cases in recent months has only made matters worse. Like a lot of folks, were just anxious.

But as we get closer and closer to Election Day  and all the campaign ads ramping up  I cant believe what Ive been hearing from our former congressman, David Young. In particular, I was surprised to hear Young promising to protect our health care coverage. Does he think weve all just suddenly forgotten how he voted on the issue when he was in Congress? This is the same charade I saw last time around.

My family was equally stressed about losing our coverage then  and Young said hed make sure that folks with pre-existing conditions didnt lose their protections. He even pledged to vote down a bill that would have taken those protections away from hundreds of thousands of Iowans like us. Then he voted for the bill. Why? Because, it turns out, some of his big Republican donors in Washington told him theyd cut off his campaign funding.

Needless to say, that about-face left our family  and plenty of other folks like us  feeling like we werent David Youngs priority. Ill never forget how that felt. No one should ever be forced to choose between paying their bills and buying the prescriptions they need. But I know plenty of hard-working families who worry about that choice with every paycheck  including me.

Maybe we shouldnt have been surprised about Youngs flip-flop. Campaign promises aside, he also supported repealing protections for pre-existing conditions, and even voted for bills that would have raised the costs of prescription drugs, two years before that. Iowans deserve leaders who are principled enough to do the opposite, and who actually fight to expand health care access and lower costs for everyday Iowans. David Young may be counting on his big donors to put him back in Congress with misleading campaign ads. But when push comes to shove in November, I hope none of my neighbors forget the truth about his record on health care.

No reruns in November!

Corinna Gallaher

Council Bluffs

Unfathomable that Trump wont promise peaceful transition

As a voter since 1972, it is unfathomable that a president would repeatedly state that he would not ensure a peaceful transfer of power if not re-elected. Watch the news clips. We live in a democracy, not an autocracy.

The president repeatedly stated that absentee balloting cannot not be trusted (untrue). Iowa and Nebraska voters must request an absentee ballot to vote by mail. Only six states automatically send ballots to registered voters. Absentee ballots will be mailed to those who requested them beginning on Oct. 5th. If you vote by absentee ballot, fill it out and return it immediately or hand-deliver to the county auditor or designated office.

The president has stated that the election is rigged if he doesnt win (untrue). Voters determine the election winner. Eligible voters should have a voting plan. If you are mistrustful of absentee voting, then make a plan for election day. Plan to wait in line; take a chair and snacks. Dont be intimidated by someone who might interfere with voting.

Electoral votes in Iowa are awarded to the candidate receiving the plurality of votes. Nebraska can split the electoral votes based on popular vote. All votes should count. Absentee ballots should be counted if submitted according to the process set forth by the Iowa or Nebraska Secretary of State. Governors and state legislatures should not seek to change distribution of electoral votes if the plurality of the vote is not consistent with their party affiliation.

I am concerned that the stage is being set to devolve into chaos even further. The primary questions for Iowans regardless of party affiliation are: Do you believe in the peaceful transfer of power following an election? Do you believe incumbents should step down when they lose? Is this country no longer a democracy? Those are simple question we face. How do you want to portray these events to your grandchildren? Dont remain silent. We are better than this. Vote!

The sanctity of the election and our democracy is at stake. It is the voters responsibility to vote for the candidate of your choice. Elected representatives must uphold the will of the people and award the electoral votes to the candidate receiving the plurality of votes and in accordance with state laws.

It is our responsibility to protect the process our Founders put in place. Vote. Insure the maintenance of the democracy.

Pat Shipley

Nodaway
Munbai:

The BJP will contest 195 seats in the 227-member Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), the elections for which are scheduled on February 21.

Unlike the last BMC polls in 2012, BJP is contesting this election sans any tie-up with old ally Shiv Sena.



On January 26, Uddhav had announced that his party would contest the upcoming civic polls in the state all alone, putting to rest speculations about forging of ties with its ally BJP.



Mumbai BJP president Ashish Shelar declared the list of candidates late last night.



The party has left 32 seats for its allies. Today is the last day of filing nominations for polls to Indias richest civic body.



A statement issued by Shelar early today said the BJP has fielded 117 Marathi candidates.



Some nominations in the list have raised eyebrows as they are kin of BJP leaders.



BJP MP Kirit Somaiyas son Neil has been nominated from ward no 108 in Mulund West.



Deepak Thakur, son of Maharashtras Minister of State for Women and Child Development Vidya Thakur, will contest from ward no 50 in Goregaon.



Besides, city BJP chief Ashish Shelars brother Vinod will contest from ward 51. Vinod is a sitting corporator from Malad, but his ward is now reserved for women.



In Colaba, legislator Raj Purohits son Aakash will be the party candidate from ward no 222. Aakash is politically active in the area and was a BJP nominee on BEST committee.



BJP legislator Ameet Satams brother-in-law Rohan Rathod will contest from ward no 68 in Andheri West.



In the neighbouring Versova, the BJP has nominated Yogiraj Dhabhalkar in ward no 60. He is legislator Bharti Lavekars nephew.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
Syracuse, N.Y.  Onondaga County today reported 21 new cases of coronavirus since Tuesday, bringing the total to 4,206 cases since March.

Of the new cases, 14 were attributed to community spread; four occurred in households with previous infections; one was blamed on travel from outside the area; one occurred in a group home; and one remained under investigation.

The new positive coronavirus cases accounted for 0.6% of all results received by the county in the past day, County Executive Ryan McMahon said. According to the state health department, the average positive test rate in Onondaga County is 1.1% for the past seven days.

No new deaths from Covid-19 were reported in Onondaga County since Tuesday. A total of 207 county residents have died from the virus.

There are 17 Covid-19 patients in local hospitals today, up two from Tuesday. None is in intensive care.

There are currently 187 active cases in Onondaga County, the county reported.

MORE ON CORONAVIRUS

Coronavirus in NY: Cases, maps, charts and resources

Adeline Fagan, doctor from CNY who died of Covid-19, remembered by family, classmates, community

Potential coronavirus exposure reported at CNY pumpkin patch

Cuomo coronavirus rules for Uber, taxis, limos: Masks, no rides with strangers, windows down

Complete coronavirus coverage on syracuse.com

News tips? Contact reporter Tim Knauss of syracuse.com/The Post-Standard: email | Twitter | | 315-470-3023
AXIS Insurance, the specialty insurance business segment of AXIS Capital Holdings Limited ("AXIS Capital") (NYSE:AXS), today announced the hiring of four experienced underwriters to its U.S. Management Liability team. Christina Segreti, Drew Kushnick, Matthew Holzinger and Sherry Alexakis have joined AXIS as Senior Underwriters to help support the Company's profitable growth in the Management Liability market.

"The growth and evolution of our Management Liability team is in response to increased demand in the market and our desire to continually enhance our underwriting capabilities to reflect the changing needs of our brokers and clients," said Mark Paccione, Head of Commercial Management Solutions at AXIS Insurance. "Christina, Drew, Matthew and Sherry are all experienced Management Liability underwriters who will help us develop propositions that address the challenges and threats faced by businesses and their executives. I am excited to work with them and for our team to benefit from their experience and market knowledge as we advance our Management Liability offering."

Ms. Segreti will work across Management Liability lines, including public and private Directors and Officers Liability (D&O), Employment Practices Liability (EPL), Fiduciary Liability and Crime coverages. She was most recently a Broker for Property Casualty lines at Gallagher. Previously, Ms. Segreti focused on Management Liability insurance products as a Client Service Associate at Marsh McLennan and as a Financial Products Underwriter at Great American Insurance. She began her career at Morgan Stanley Wealth Management as a Client Service Associate.

Mr. Kushnick's work will also span across Management Liability lines, including public and private D&O, EPL, Fiduciary Liability and Crime coverages. Prior to AXIS, he was a Senior Underwriter at Chubb Insurance, evaluating and underwriting professional liability lines for private companies and large-scale nonprofits. He began his career in insurance at Chubb as a Financial Lines Underwriter. Previously he held positions of Regulatory Compliance Attorney at Interbank Mortgage Company, and Wealth Strategies Analyst at Bank of America Private Bank.

Mr. Holzinger will work closely with AXIS' Private Equity product team and will focus on underwriting insurance products for private equity and venture capital firms as well as private equity-backed public and private portfolio company investments. He joins AXIS from Starr Companies where he was a Financial Institutions Underwriter. He began his career as a Wealth Management Associate at Merrill Lynch before transitioning into specialty insurance.

Ms. Alexakis will focus on Commercial Crime underwriting. She joins AXIS from Chubb Insurance where she was a Senior Management Liability Underwriter. Ms. Alexakis brings 15 years' experience assessing private and non-profit companies for D&O, EPL, Fiduciary, Crime and other related insurance coverages. She started her career at Chubb working as a Claims Adjuster negotiating personal property claims before transitioning into various underwriting roles.

Alexandra Tucker also recently joined AXIS as an Underwriter for middle market private company Management Liability products, for both wholesale and retail distribution.

About AXIS Capital

AXIS Capital, through its operating subsidiaries, is a global provider of specialty lines insurance and treaty reinsurance with shareholders' equity at June 30, 2020 of $5.3 billion and locations in Bermuda, the United States, Europe, Singapore, Canada and the Middle East. Its operating subsidiaries have been assigned a rating of "A+" ("Strong") by Standard Poor's and "A" ("Excellent") by A.M. Best. For more information about AXIS Capital, visit our website at www.axiscapital.com.

Follow AXIS Capital on LinkedIn and Twitter.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201001005277/en/

Contacts:

Investor Contact

Matt Rohrmann

AXIS Capital Holdings Limited

investorrelations@axiscapital.com

(212) 940-3339



Media Contact

Brian Price

AXIS Capital Holdings Limited

brian.price@axiscapital.com

(312) 609-6761
The family of the Uttar Pradeshs Dalit woman, who died days after being gang-raped and tortured in Hathras, has alleged being made to feel the pressure from a senior district official who visited them today. A 22-second video of the Hathras district magistrate Praveen Kumar speaking to the family in a courtyard has been widely shared online.

The video shows Kumar telling the father of the woman that the media will go away in a day or two and that he should stick to his statement.

These media persons are not here to stay. Half would go today and the remaining will move away tomorrow and only few will remain. It is we who would stand with you and thus it is your wish if you want to change your statements or not. Do not harm your credibility, else we might also change, says the district magistrate in the video, before it ends abruptly.

There is another video in which a woman from the victims family is seen blaming the district administration for putting pressure on the victims father.

Repeated efforts were made to obtain the district magistrates version on this issue, but he did not take the call.

When asked, Aligarh divisional commissioner GS Priyadarshi indicated he was not aware of the content of the video.

I can react once I come across the content of the said video, Priyadarshi said.

A senior Uttar Pradesh police officer said today the forensic report has revealed that the woman was not raped. Citing a forensic science laboratory (FSL) report, ADG (Law and Order) Prashant Kumar said the cause of her death is an injury on the neck and trauma resulting due to it.

The report of the FSL has come. It says clearly that samples did not have sperm. It makes clear that there was no rape or gang rape, Kumar said.

Last week, Hathras ASP Prakash Kumar had told mediapersons that initially the accused were booked for attempt to murder under Section 307 of the IPC. Later, on receiving more inputs, Section 376-D (gangrape) of the IPC was added to the FIR, he had said.

On Wednesday, the family had alleged that the UP police forced the cremation of the woman who was brutally raped by four men. The Yogi Adityanath government has been accused of trying to suppress the collection of additional forensic evidence and prevent the ballooning of protests through the forced cremation.

District officials contended that they had consent from the womans family, but the manner in which the developments took place raised questions over the conduct of the administration and law enforcement.

The woman succumbed to injuries in Delhi on Tuesday and the body was moved later that night to her hometown 200km away. The cremation was carried out at 2.30am amid heavy deployment of police, who stopped locals and the media from approaching the site.

The police have forcibly taken the body and my father along with them for cremation. When my father reached Hathras, he was immediately taken (to the crematorium) by the police, the womans brother was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.

Hathras DM Praveen Kumar had denied the charges. The funeral was conducted with the due permission of the father. No one in the family, except a handful, have levelled such charges. Initially, family was not prepared to shift the victim to Delhi for better treatment but later agreed to it, the DM had told the PTI.
The mystery of what happened to John Bingham, the 7th Earl of Lucan, has gripped the British public for decades and made headlines around the world.

But it appears the current Lady Lucan was not aware of the scandal surrounding her future family when she first met her now husband.

George Bingham, the 8th Earl of Lucan, is the only son of John Bingham, who went missing in 1974 while he was the prime suspect in the murder of the Lucans' nanny, Sandra Rivett, who was found dead at the family's Belgravia home.

Anne-Sofie Foghsgaard, Countess of Lucan, told Tatler she had 'absolutely no clue' about the history when she was introduced to her husband and added: 'I don't think people are that interested'.

Anne-Sofie Foghsgaard, Countess of Lucan, told Tatler she had 'absolutely know idea' about the history when she met her husband George Bingham, the 8th Earl of Lucan, pictured

'I think [the interest is] very much a generational thing, but also a very British thing,' she said. 'When I met George I had absolutely no clue about it, and also, frankly, I don't think people are that interested.'

Lady Lucan is the founder of luxury clothing brand, Lucan. Dismissing any negative connotations, she argued it is 'a stunning name, and it's got a lot of history to it. It's British, full of heritage, colours and places. It's a luxury brand.'

The current Lord Lucan was only seven years old when he last saw his father.

Richard John Bingham, the 7th Earl of Lucan, disappeared after Ms Rivett was found dead in the Lucans' basement.

29-year-old Sandra was  an inquest ruled in 1975  most likely murdered by Lucan, whod mistaken her for his estranged wife, Veronica, with whom he was locked in a bitter custody battle.

Days later his borrowed car was found abandoned and blood-splattered at the cross-Channel port of Newhaven, East Sussex. One theory was that Lord Lucan had jumped into the sea and drowned.

George Bingham, the 8th Earl of Lucan, is the only son of John Bingham, who went missing in 1974 while he was the prime suspect in the murder of the Lucans' nanny, Sandra Rivett, who was found dead at the family's Belgravia home. Pictured, John Bingham with wife Veronica

In an ITV documentary in 2017, his wife, the late Lady Lucan said she believed Lord Lucan had jumped off a ferry shortly after the killing.

'I would say he got on the ferry and jumped off in the middle of the Channel in the way of the propellers so that his remains wouldn't be found,' she said. Lady Lucan was found dead in September 2017 at her home in Belgravia.

Several other fantastical theories about his disappearance have placed him in the Australian outback, as a hippy drop-out in Goa, and even fed to the tigers at his friend John Aspinall's zoo.

In January this year, Ms Rivett's son Neil Berriman, from West Sussex, claimed Lucan is alive and currently housebound, awaiting a major operation after decades living in Australia. The current Lord Lucan rubbished the claims at the time.

Although a High Court judge granted a death certificate in 2016, paving the way for his son to inherit his title, this has provided neither resolution nor a conclusion to the mystery.

Richard John Bingham, the 7th Earl of Lucan, disappeared after nanny Sandra Rivett, pictured, was found dead in the basement of the Lucans' Belgravia family home
Calumet City plans to use the grant money to improve streets as well as water and sewer lines in the industrial park, which will ultimately help HB Taylors expansion, said Martin Ives, the companys vice president and general manager. The company owns eight acres in the industrial park, but much of it has poor drainage which needs to be addressed before an expansion can take place, he said.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-02 05:14:37|Editor: huaxia

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BRUSSELS, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- European Parliament President David Sassoli said Thursday that his institution was not blocking a deal on the next seven-year budget of the European Union (EU), but it was the EU Council that seemed to lack the political will to reach an agreement.

He told European leaders at a special EU summit that a deal could be reached quickly if they respected what the European Parliament had proposed.

"Parliament is not obstructing anything. Our demands are in the interests of European citizens. The delays are due to a lack of counter-proposals from the Council. Parliament has made many concessions to the Council. If there is a will, a political agreement can be reached quickly," he said in the speech.

During a press conference later Thursday, Sassoli said the parliament is willing to find an agreement but "everyone has to play their part" in order to reach an agreement.

"We have been regretful about certain rumors concerning parliament's responsibility for delays... the European Parliament isn't blocking anything," he told reporters.

It took EU leaders four days in July to reach an agreement on a seven-year budget worth 1.07 trillion euros (1.26 trillion U.S. dollars) which was negotiated in conjunction with a 750-billion-euro economic recovery package that aims to help EU countries bounce back from the recession caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

But MEPs were not pleased with the proposed cuts in certain areas which they deemed of utmost importance, including in education.

Heads of states and governments of the 27 EU member states arrived in Brussels early Thursday for the two-day summit, which deals with the bloc's foreign affairs including its relations with Turkey concerning the Eastern Mediterranean situation and the relations with China. (1 euro = 1.175 U.S. dollars) Enditem
Five families at the Ahamansu village in the Oti Region have been provided with solar light to support their economic and domestic activities courtesy a youth-centered Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), Rays4Hope.



The installation which was done on Friday, September 18, 2020, is part of the NGOs ambition to give a solar light to about 20 rural families by the end of March 2021.



The philanthropic move is meant to support rural communities with difficulties to get onto the national grid and have access to power to enhance the socio-economic lifestyle of communities.



It took about a day to install the panel for the families who are all based in a farming community. The move has transformed their daily routines as the parents would not have to rely on lanterns and other sources for illumination and do not have to walk far distances to charge their mobile phones.



The families heads that benefited from this gesture are, Alhassan Alidu, Kokou Donkor, Yakubu Nuruden, Kafaru Kwasi and Yakina Awal.



They were grateful to the NGO saying their children would now have comfortable scenery to learn to propel them academically.



One family said the gesture will go a long way to better their lives as they can frequently communicate with buyers of some of the crops they germinate.



While another said, We can now listen to the news on radio or watch television to be updated on happenings in the country and be guided accordingly.







Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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.

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Actor Efremov files notice of Pashayev defense service cancellation

 RAPSI, Vladimir Burnov

18:11 01/10/2020

MOSCOW, October 1 (RAPSI)  Russian actor Mikhail Efremov has filed an application for cancellation of services of his former defense lawyers Elman Pashayev and Elizaveta Shargorodskaya, RAPSI has learnt from the press service of Moscows Presnensky District Court.

Efremov stated that he did not want appeals against sentence in a fatal road traffic case against him lodged by Pashayev and Shargorodskaya to be considered.

Earlier, the actor filed his personal appeal reading that he repented and seeking for mitigation of sentence given to him as his position was driven by Pashayevs pressure.

Moreover, Efremovs sentence was appealed by his new defense team, Petr Kharkhorin and Vladimir Vasilyev, and his former attorneys Pashayev and Shargorodskaya.

On September 8, the actor received 8 years in penal colony for and was banned Efremov from driving for three years. The court returned him his broken Jeep. The court found that victim Sergey Zakharov was killed in the accident due to the defendant's driving behaviour.

When delivering sentence Judge Elena Abramova said Efremov needed no compulsory psychiatric care. The defendant accepted the danger of his actions and did not suffer serious mental diseases, the judge stated. However, the court considered his guilty plea during the pretrial investigation and his three minor children as mitigating circumstances.

On September 3, a prosecutor demanded an 11-year imprisonment for Efremov and driving ban for 3 years. That day, the court heard the parties arguments. Before the beginning Efremov made a plea of guilty. Earlier, he refused to admit his guilt and said he remembered nothing.

On the evening of June 8, Efremov driving his car crossed into the oncoming lane in central Moscow and collided with a delivery service vehicle. He was arrested on the scene. Alcohol and drugs were reportedly found in his blood. Victim Sergey Zakharov was taken to hospital where he died early in the morning of June 9.
The Cabinet Committee on Security has cleared an ambitious project under which a highly secure communication network will be set up for the in strategically key forward locations, including along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), at a cost of Rs 7,796 crore, officials said on Thursday.

The project will be rolled out by government-owned company ITI within three years, they said, adding that the contract for its implementation was signed with the telecom entity on Thursday.

The officials said the project will provide better "survivability, responsiveness and high bandwidth" in any operational scenario and enhance the communication coverage of the network in areas closer to forward areas, including along the LAC.

The project will also help provide secure network coverage in areas along the Line of Control (LoC) and the international border with Pakistan, they said.

"In order to meet the long pending demand of the Indian Army, the Cabinet Committee on Security has approved the proposal for establishment of Army Static Switched Communication Network (ASCON) Phase IV Network," the defence ministry said.

It said the project would augment the communication network of the in the sensitive forward operational areas which in turn will provide a major boost to the operational preparedness especially keeping in view the current situation at the LAC.

India and China are locked in a five-month-long bitter border standoff in eastern Ladakh that has significantly strained their ties. Both sides have held a series of diplomatic and military talks to resolve the row. However, no breakthrough has been achieved to end the standoff.

"The project is also a big opportunity for the public sector to showcase its capability and provide an impetus to the Indian economy and will be a step in the direction of achieving the goal of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India)," the ministry said.

With approximately 80 per cent indigenous content, the project will provide a boost to the Indian industry, it said.

The ministry said the project will lead to upgradation of the existing 'Asynchronous Transfer Mode Technology' to Internet Protocol (IP)/ Multi Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) technology.

"Optical Fibre Cable (OFC), Microwave Radio and Satellite will be used as communication media," it said.

The ministry said the project would generate employment opportunities especially to the people in remote border areas and boost rural economy.

"The project involves execution of civil works, laying of OFC, tower construction, etc. And with utilisation of local resources, hiring of manpower, it would generate employment opportunities especially to the people in remote border areas, support and boost rural economy, assist in upliftment of the local economies, provide skill development during the prolonged period of execution and maintenance of the network," the ministry said.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Omar Ishrak, chief executive officer of Medtronic Inc., speaks during an event at the 2016 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2016.

The U.S. Justice Department is investigating if acquisitions by medical device maker Medtronic hindered competition in ventilator manufacturing, The Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday, citing people familiar with the matter.

The company has received a civil subpoena from the department requesting more information on the same, according to the report.

Medtronic did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.
There are coastal paths, and then there is The Gobbins.

Stepping through 'Wise's Eye', a hole bored into basalt off the coast of Islandmagee, Co Antrim, salty sea air whacks me in the face. The ocean's roar cranks up in volume. I grip the chain handrail.

Ahead is a mile or so of hand-chiselled paths, deftly engineered bridges, steps, caves, coves and at one point a 22m tunnel that actually takes our walking group below sea level. The hard hats we wear are not for fun.

At several points, I find myself not just walking along the Irish Sea, but actually right out over it. Surf slurps and booms into hidden crevices. Two sea-kayakers bob past us in the near distance, and birds babble overhead.

'The Gobbins' opened as a 21st-century tourist attraction in 2015. But as walkers learn, it began life as an Edwardian engineering marvel designed to attract travellers in a golden age of railways.

"On a busy day, they say the Gobbins was busier than Royal Avenue in Belfast," says Eddie, the guide leading our group through 'Wise's Eye'.

All access to the coastal route is guided for safety reasons, and the trail now has Northern Ireland's Good to Go charter mark in place - with enhanced, Covid-19 health measures including pre-booking and one-way systems.



Expand Close Walking a section of The Gobbins. Photo: Pol O Conghaile / Facebook

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A higher cliff path is free to access, but to walk the original, restored route, you need to buy a ticket (20pp) at the visitor centre near Whitehead, joining a group safety briefing and a five-minute bus ride to the trailhead. Group sizes are restricted, but my minibus was still fairly full, so don't forget those face masks.

The trail starts with a short but steep descent, passing farmsteads where tea was once poured and dishes like boiled bacon served for Edwardian day-trippers. Today, the scene is rustic and calm - onions are laid out to dry in a shed, apple trees are popping with autumn fruit; a clucking hen dips about by a parked tractor.

On the horizon, an undulating line of land is visible.

"Thats Scotland," Eddie says.

The path itself is tight, hugging the coast so much that backpacks are not permitted. We walk in single file, with waves lapping just a few feet beneath us - and regularly spraying visitors on wetter or windier days.

Today's bridges are shiny stainless steel, but traces of the original iron and concrete works are still visible. Built "with hand tools by men in cloth hats", as we're told, the original Gobbins dates from 1902, when it was designed as a tourist attraction to wow travellers using newly expanded railway lines. Whitehead, on Islandmagee, was one beauty spot, and this path engineered by Berkeley Deane Wise became one of the island's most talked about coastal attractions.

Incidentally, Wise also worked on the extension of Dublin's Kingstown line around Bray Head in the 1870s - a network of tunnels, viaducts and bridges you can still see on the Bray to Greystones cliff walk today.



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'Wise's Eye' is named after the Chief Engineer.

And 'The Gobbins"?

"It means headlands or snout'," Eddie says. "Do you know the phrase, 'Shut your gob?"

The original path fell into disrepair after closing during the Second World War. Maintaining it had become too costly for a railway company hit by the Depression of the 1930s, and the growing popularity of cars. A section reopened in the 1950s, but it was closed again in 1954 following a landfall and finally abandoned some years later.

The guided walk unfolds at a gentle pace, with plenty of stops for stories of smugglers, views of the old constructions, or educations on the wildlife flitting about above and below.

Seals and dolphins can be spotted offshore, puffins nest in the cliffs (in season), and there are gannets and cormorants diving for fish too. April to August is best for birdwatchers - but there are no guarantees, of course.

"Nature shows up when it wants to show up," as Eddie says.

One highlight (or lowlight, if you're at all claustrophobic) is that 22m tunnel that passes below sea level. Our feet stay dry, but it's a tight crack to creep through, and the booming sound of the surf adds an edge - so let your guide know if you feel anxious or if you'd prefer to go to the front of the group.

Larne Borough Council have done a super job restoring the iconic attraction - in the future, I'd love to see investment to link the lower and upper cliff paths into a loop.

That really would be a coastal trail for the ages.

Need to know

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Level: Moderate. The path is short and won't trouble fit hikers, but there is a steep descent (and ascent at the end). "It is the equivalent of climbing and descending 50 flights of steps", the official website says - so think twice if you have back and joint problems, or heart and breathing conditions. Tours do operate in strong wind and heavy rain, but not in severe weather conditions - either way, expect to get wet.

Distance: 4.5km (3 miles) approx. Allow 2.5 hours for the tour.

Tips: Guided tours run from 9am to 3pm (they leave promptly, so arrive early). Tickets cost 20/14.50, with a family rate of 42 for two adults and up to three children. Book in advance, use the loo at the visitor centre, and note that trainers are not allowed (boots or walking shoes can be hired for 5).

A bite nearby: There's a basic cafe alongside the exhibition at The Gobbins Visitor Centre, doing breakfast fry-ups, quiches and the like. It's no great shakes, but you may like a cuppa there after the walk.

More info: thegobbinscliffpath.com; discovernorthernireland.com

Your walking checklist
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa yesterday urged SADC countries to harness natural resources abundant in the region so as to improve the lives of their citizens through production and productivity.





Speaking at a State banquet for the visiting Malawian President Lazarus Chikwera at the State House last night, the President traced the historical ties between Zimbabwe and Malawi and stressed the need to strengthen economic ties.

Your visit affords us an opportunity to refocus our cooperation in the areas of trade, agriculture, mining and social services. Zimbabwe is ready to host the next session of the Joint Permanent Commission to enhance our socio-economic collaboration and identify new areas of cooperation.

It is important that we leverage on the natural resources within our countries to grow our economies and improve the quality of life of our people, the President said.

In line with the SADC Industrialisation Strategy and in the context of the African Continental Free Trade, the President said cooperation between Zimbabwe and Malawi, two countries that share cultural and geographical ties, will lead to a more prosperous and empowered Africa.

The President said Malawi and Zimbabwe should enhance private sector business exchanges and cooperation as well as cooperation between small and medium enterprises.

The ongoing consultations between our officials to establish a Zimbabwe-Malawi Business Forum to facilitate increased trade cooperation should be speedily concluded. It is commendable that Malawian companies always exhibit at our Zimbabwe International Trade Fair.

I challenge more Zimbabwean companies to equally participate at different expos hosted in Malawi including the Takulandirani Tourism Indaba, for mutual benefit.

The President told his Malawian counterpart that although Zimbabwe has been suffering under the yoke of illegal economic sanctions imposed by Western nations, the country was grateful of the support rendered by fellow SADC member states in calling for their unconditional removal.

These sanctions were a direct response by Britain and her allies to Zimbabwes Land Reform Programme in 1999/2000. We make no apologies for taking back our land and we are happy that the people have been reunited with their land.

It has become very evident that these sanctions are designed to effect regime change. Hence Zimbabwe continues to endure the unrelenting attacks from external forces and their internal surrogates, with the intention of unconstitutionally, violently and illegally overthrowing our democratically elected Government. Thankfully, our people have remained vigilant, astute and patriotic.

The President also saluted the SADC countries, that have declared October 25 the anti-sanctions day in the region, for steadfastly standing by Zimbabwe on various platforms, including the recently ended United Nations General Assembly, calling for the unconditional removal of sanctions.

After Malawi successfully held a presidential election runoff without foreign observers, the President said time might have come for African countries to conduct elections on their own without foreign observers, some of whom have an eternally prejudiced attitude.

The President briefed his counterpart about the political reforms and that the country is entrenching constitutionalism and the rule of law and also the Political Actors Dialogue platform, an inclusive and diverse platform that was established in 2018 to accommodate all political players so as to promote political dialogue.

Those who prefer confrontation, anarchy, delinquency, civil disobedience and peddling falsehoods in a bid to unseat democratically elected Governments have no place in our country and indeed in the SADC region. On the international front, the Second Republic embarked on the Engagement and Re-Engagement Policy. As a result of the policy, the country has seen notable investments.

On his part, President Chakwera pledged economic cooperation with Zimbabwe so as to improve the welfare of the two countries.

Vice President Chiwenga, Speaker of Parliament Jacob Mudenda, President of the Senate Mable Chinomona, service chiefs and governments officials from both Malawi and Zimbabwe attended the colourful banquet where the President presented a bouquet of flowers to Malawian First Lady Monica Chakwera on behalf of First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa. The Malawian First Lady celebrated her birthday yesterday. Herald
When the nation looks back on the presidential debate we witnessed this week, do you think itll be remembered as:

A moment that will live on in history, second in historical import only to Lincoln-Douglas.

That thing where Joe Biden called Donald Trump Putins puppy.

The worst television programming since I Wanna Marry Harry.

Really, you have to go with the puppy quote. Particularly since it was about the nicest thing either of them said.

Trump had painted the debate as a virtual death sentence for Biden, who he strongly suggested was too old, at 77, to survive so much pressure. But Biden held up pretty well. Meanwhile Trump did a terrific imitation of a 74-year-old toddler up past his bedtime.

Maybe the president figured if he yelled, interrupted and made nasty faces all night long it might trigger some kind of fainting spell in his opponent. If so, the plot boomeranged. Ill bet there are a whole lot of voters wandering around now saying: Wow, if Biden could stand all that time being yowled at by Trump, hed definitely have no problem handling a bloodthirsty dictator with nuclear warheads.

Some dedicated citizens were hoping for a more enlightening show. Saddest moment of the evening was perhaps the introduction by Dana Bash, the chief political correspondent for CNN. This is really one of the most important moments that weve seen in politics, Bash said solemnly, ushering in the debate. What followed apparently didnt live up to her expectations, since she later bracingly described the evening on air as a shitshow.
BERLIN - Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who is recovering in Germany after being poisoned in Russia, said in comments published Thursday that only Russian President Vladimir Putin could have been behind the attack against him with a Soviet-era nerve agent.

Navalnys supporters have frequently maintained that the poisoning could have only been ordered at the top level, although the Kremlin has repeatedly dismissed the allegation. German officials have said labs found traces of a chemical agent from the Novichok family in the Russian politicians system.

Navalny, a corruption investigator who is Putins fiercest critic, was flown to Germany two days after falling ill on Aug. 20 on a domestic flight in Russia. He spent 32 days in the hospital, 24 of them in intensive care, before doctors deemed his condition sufficiently improved for him to be discharged.

He has posted frequent comments online as his recovery has progressed, but in his first interview since the attack, he told Germanys Der Spiegel, I assert Putin was behind the crime, according to an English-language copy of his comments the magazine published online.

I have no other explanation for what happened, Navalny, 44, said.

He asserted that his poisoning with a Novichok nerve agent only could have been ordered by the heads of Russias military, domestic, or foreign intelligence agencies, officials who cannot make a decision like that without being instructed by Putin. They report to him.

The Kremlin on Thursday said that such accusations against the Russian president are absolutely groundless and unacceptable.

Some of these statements in the mentioned publication we consider offensive, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

Peskov charged that there was information that specialists from the CIA were working with Navalny these days and giving him instructions.

There is information that these instructors are working with him these days, Peskov said. Instructions the patient is receiving are obvious. We have seen such lines of behaviour more than once.

Russias United Nations ambassador Vassily Nebenzia told reporters that Navalnys claim is inherently insulting.

In response to Peskovs comments, Navalny on Thursday announced that he would sue the Kremlin spokesman and demanded that the alleged evidence of him working with the CIA be made public.

If the authorities, on behalf of which Peskov speaks, have evidence of the nonsense he is talking about, then its a matter of Russias state security, and I demand that this evidence be published, Navalny said in his blog.

Before he was transferred to Berlin for treatment, Navalny spent two days in a coma in a hospital in the Siberian city of Omsk, where Russian doctors said they found no trace of any poisoning.

German chemical weapons experts determined that he was poisoned with the Soviet-era Novichok, the class of nerve agent that Britain said was used in a 2018 attack on former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter in Salisbury, England. Labs in France and Sweden corroborated the German findings.

Navalny told Der Spiegel that when he first fell ill on the plane he was taking from Siberia to Moscow, he was sure he was dying as he collapsed to the floor.

Then I hear voices growing ever quieter, and a woman calling: Dont leave us! Dont leave us! Then its over. I know Im dead, he said in the interview. Only later would it turn out that I was wrong.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel called the poisoning an attempted murder and she and other world leaders have demanded that Russia fully investigate the case.

Merkel had personally offered Germanys assistance in treating Navalny, and the politician said even though he had no real previous contacts with the country, Germany has become a special country for me. He said he had rented an apartment in Berlin to use as he recovers.

Merkel visited him in the hospital before he was released, which Navalny said was totally unexpected, but a pleasant surprise.

We didnt discuss anything secret or sensational. The visit was a gesture, he said. I was impressed by how precisely she knows Russia and my case, adding: She knows some of the details better than I do.

And when you talk to her, you understand why she has been at the top in Germany for so long, Navalny said of Merkel. I thanked her for her efforts and she said: I only did my duty.

Russia has bristled at demands for an investigation, saying that Germany needs to share medical data in the case or compare notes with Russian doctors. Germany has noted that Russian doctors have their own samples from Navalny since he was in their care for 48 hours.

The Hague-based Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons has collected independent samples from Navalny for testing, but results havent yet been announced.

Navalny scoffed at the Russian demands for tests and blood samples, saying there should still be plenty of my blood in Omsk.

Theyre naturally not interested in dealing with the matter as such. All they care about is painting the German government in the worst possible light, he told Spiegel. The next thing theyll do surely is accuse Angela Merkel of having personally poisoned me with Novichok.

The magazine described Navalny as joking and alert in the interview, but said his hands shook so much it was difficult for him to drink from a bottle of water. He also reiterated what his team has previously said  that he planned to return to Russia when he was able to do so.

Not going back would mean that Putin has won and achieved his goal, and my job now is to remain the guy who isnt afraid, Navalny said. And Im not afraid! When my hands shake, its not from fear - its from this stuff. I would not give Putin the gift of not returning to Russia.

___

Litvinova reported from Moscow

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Source: Xinhua| 2020-09-30 15:40:32|Editor: huaxia

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A man shows a house damaged during the new round of Nagorno-Karabakh conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia in Fuzuli district of Azerbaijan, Sept. 30, 2020. The new round of Nagorno-Karabakh conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia Wednesday entered its 4th day, with more casualties revealed by the two sides. (Photo by Tofik Babayev/Xinhua)

BAKU/YEREVAN, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- The new round of Nagorno-Karabakh conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia Wednesday entered its 4th day, with more casualties revealed by the two sides.

Since the outbreak of the conflict, about 2,300 Armenian soldiers have been killed and wounded, and about 130 tanks and other armored vehicles, 200 artillery and rocket systems, 25 air defense systems, six command and observation posts, five ammunition depots and 55 vehicles were destroyed, a statement released on Wednesday morning by the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry indicated.

The ministry added that one S-300 anti-aircraft missile system of Armenia was destroyed during Tuesday's fighting in the Khojaly region.

On the Armenian side, a total of 790 Azerbaijani servicemen have been killed and as many as 1,900 soldiers were injured, said Artsrun Hovhannisyan, a representative of the country's Defense Ministry, at a press conference on Tuesday night amid the clashes, adding that the Armenian army destroyed 137 tanks and armored vehicles, 72 UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles), seven helicopters and one aircraft of the Azerbaijan army during the battles.

Meanwhile, Shushan Stepanyan, a spokesperson of the Armenian Defense Ministry, said on her social media platform on Wednesday morning that severe artillery fire was still being exchanged along the whole contact line of the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region between Armenia and Azerbaijan. On Sunday morning, the new round of clashes broke out along the contact line.

Armenia and Azerbaijan have been at loggerheads over the mountainous region since 1988. Peace talks have been held since 1994 when a ceasefire was reached, but there have been occasional minor clashes along the borders. Enditem
KP Public Affairs is handling the launch of Californias Dont Get Caught Off Guard campaign to educate people about the Golden States earthquake warning system.

The Sacramento firm is in charge of PR, third party outreach and education, social media, and virtual event management. Partner Patrick George, a 15-year veteran of Burson-Marsteller, spearheads the effort.

KP is serving as a subcontractor to Pulsar, which is the lead agency on the account and in charge of advertising and creative.

Pulsar founder and executive creative director Alberto Gonzalez and partner Jim Wright oversee the effort.

The Dont Get Caught Off Guard push directs Californians to free tools and resources such as the smartphone MyShake app, Android earthquake alerts, government wireless emergency alerts and the earthquake.ca.gov site.

The state spent $16.3M last year to finish the build-out of the Earthquake Warning California system.

Gov. Gavin Newsoms budget this year includes $17.3M for full-operation and maintenance of the system, plus a public education campaign to remind people that seconds count when mobile warning messages arrive before the ground starts shaking.

The education drive features statewide advertising delivering messages directed to diverse audiences.

The campaign has budgeted more than $420K for ethnic TV (Spanish, Cantonese, Mandarin and Vietnamese), $1M for general market TV and $2.3M for digital, social, and audio streaming over the next two years.

There is planned outreach to business, civic groups, faith-based organizations, social services agencies and charities to deliver messages to staff, employees, followers and clients.

The Great California ShakeOut and International ShakeOut Day is slated for Oct. 16. More than 10.8M Californians participated in last years shakeout programming.


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Hathras rape case: Allahabad HC takes suo motu cognisance, issues notice to UP govt

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Lucknow, Oct 01: Upset with the alleged gang-rape and murder of a 19-year-old Dalit woman in Hathras district of Uttar Pradesh and her forcible cremation subsequently, a Lucknow Bench of Allahabad High Court issued notice after taking suo motu cognisance of the Hathras case. Hearing in the case to take place on October 12.

"List this case on 12.10.2020. On the said date the Additional Chief Secretary/Principal Secretary (Home), Director General of Police, UP Lucknow, Additional Director General, Law and Order, UP, District Magistrate, Hathras, Superintendent of Police, Hathras shall appear before this Court and put forth their version with support of requisite material. They shall also apprise the Court about the status of the investigation relating to the crime against the deceased victim," the order reads.

Bhim Army chief says UP CM unable to handle govt, demands President's Rule

"The State Authorities are directed to ensure that no coercion, influence or pressure is exerted upon the family members of the deceased in any manner, by anyone," the Bench orders.

The bench also asked the late teen's parent to come to the court to apprise it of their version of the incident and ordered the Hathras district administration to arrange for their travel to the court.

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Thursday, October 1, 2020, 21:22 [IST]
MISRATA, Libya (Reuters) - When he is not teaching Arabic at Misrata University, professor Omar Mesbah al-Maghreby manages a car repair workshop in the garage of his home in northern Libya and spends his afternoons selling dates at a food market.

After nine years of civil war, ordinary Libyans are learning to cope with fuel and electricity shortages and a funding crunch that means salaries are delayed by weeks or more. The country is rich in oil, but exports have been blocked for months by the fighting.

"My daily life is basically a series of hardships," Maghreby, 48, told Reuters. "You're forced to seek out daily basic supplies such as bread, water, gas fuel and have to deal with power cuts as well."

Maghreby, with a greying beard and wearing a cream shirt, was at work in the garage with one of his sons, surrounded by electrical cables and tools.

Libya is split between warring rivals in the west, where Misrata is located, and the east and south.

The internationally recognised Government of National Accord (GNA) in the west is backed by Turkey. The Libyan National Army (LNA) under commander Khalifa Haftar in the east has support from the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Russia.

The two sides have been deadlocked since June when the GNA repelled a 14-month LNA assault on the capital Tripoli. The LNA has retained its hold on most of Libya's oil facilities and had blockaded exports since January.

However, last month Haftar announced an end to the blockade and some exports have resumed, allowing revenue to start flowing to state institutions again.

Maghreby has to provide for four children - two girls and two boys aged between 12 and 18.

A banking crisis and lack of liquidity mean he only receives his monthly salary of 900 Libyan dinars ($655) every couple of months.

"There's a lack of public transport and you have to secure your own, so you're constantly working all day, from morning to night and 24 hours never seem to be enough to cover your basics, not even luxuries," he said.

(Reporting by Ayman al-Sahely in Misrata, editing by Angus McDowall and Mike Collett-White)
Concern: Acting chief medical officer Dr Ronan Glynn and Health Minister Stephen Donnelly leave Leinster House after appearing before the Special Committee on Covid-19 Response. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA

Cases of Covid-19 detected by private rapid diagnosis tests are not being entered into the national tracing system, the Irish Independent has learned.

The process of verifying positive cases detected via the LAMP (Loop-mediated isothermal amplification) method of testing is leading to concerns over delays in tracking and tracing the spread of the virus.

Express tests being offered by companies that use LAMP diagnostics to detect the virus rather than the HSE-preferred PCR (polymerase chain reaction) testing technique, are "not recognised for diagnosis" according to the HSE.

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The issue has come to light after individuals who paid up to 200 for private testing that generates results within hours were informed by the HSE that although they tested positive for the virus, a second HSE test would be required to confirm a diagnosis.

One parent told the Irish Independent that she became concerned when close contacts of her son were not contacted by tracing teams after he received a positive LAMP test result from a private testing facility. She said she phoned the HSE and was told that a PCR test would be required, which the HSE would provide.

At present, the HSE is entering only positive PCR test results into the Covid Care Tracker, a computerised system that is used for contact tracing purposes.

The HSE told the Irish Independent that it "only accepts PCR tests as the standard test for the purpose of Covid. Any other testing method is not recognised for diagnosis".

A spokesperson added, "PCR testing remains the gold standard test internationally for Covid diagnosis."

Last month the National Public Health Emergency Team (Nphet) also raised concerns over the provision of testing by private companies and stressed that where a public health investigation is taking place, testing should be conducted through the HSE to ensure that no delays with data collection arise.

David Rock, CEO of RocDoc, a company that has been offering express Covid-19 LAMP tests at a drive-through facility in Co Meath, said the test has a 97.5pc accuracy rate.

Read More

"The World Health Organisation have said molecular testing is the gold standard," he said.

"Ireland and England have gone with PCR as that type of molecular testing. LAMP is an alternative option that is much quicker."

RocDoc offers standard tests (LAMP) which provide results the same day at a cost of 149 per test, express tests (LAMP) that provide results within a few hours at a cost of 199 per test, and PCR tests at a cost of 179 per test.

The majority of customers who have used the service, more than 800 since it opened three-and-a-half weeks ago, have opted for the express test. Mr Rock said that when a positive case is detected and the customer is informed, public health and the HSE are notified so they can begin the tracing process.

However, Mr Rock, an Ashbourne-based GP, said he was not "100pc sure" if the HSE accepted positive LAMP test results without secondary validation with a PCR test, but that the information is passed to the authorities.
South Africa: Prioritise environmental conservation: President Ramaphosa

As countries across the world grapple with rebuilding their economies amid the destruction caused by COVID-19, President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on governments to prioritise environmental conservation.

President Ramaphosa made the call during his address at the virtual Summit on Biodiversity taking place on the sidelines of the 75th United Nations General Assembly.

The Coronavirus pandemic has had badly affected the ability of national economies to respond to challenges like environmental degradation and climate change. But even as we prioritise economic revival and reconstruction, we must maintain our collective commitment to environmental conservation, he said on Wednesday.

The President said this was even more important considering that there are strong linkages between environmental destruction and the emergence of new deadly diseases in humans.

Biodiversity loss, deforestation, the loss of farmland, animal habitat loss and the consumption of wild species are creating conditions for infectious diseases that we will soon be unable to control.

South Africa commits to working with the UN Environment Programme in the development of tools to track the future emergence of Zoonotic disease, he said.

South Africa is the third most mega biodiverse country in the world, with unique species and ecosystems found nowhere else on earth.

South Africa as a signatory to the Convention on Biological Diversity, is working to conserve its biodiversity, promote its sustainable use and ensure the benefits of the commercial use of genetic resources are fairly distributed.

We have a Biodiversity Economy strategy that integrates the sustainable management of biodiversity with job and business creation opportunities.

We have increased our territorial protected areas and our protected ocean space, said the President.

In pursuit of sustainable development, President Ramaphosa said recovery strategies should strike a balance between environmental and economic imperatives.

We need a holistic approach to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 15 on halting biodiversity loss. As responsible global citizens, we need to change our behaviour and consumption patterns and integrate approaches to improve conservation of species and ecosystems, he said.

President Ramaphosa punted the need to adopt sustainable land management practices, restore degraded lands, implement sustainable food production models and develop more climate-friendly agriculture.

There needs to be a shift away from economic models that value growth for growths sake towards a circular economy.

We must engage with local communities, drawing on traditional knowledge, and promote the inclusion of women and indigenous populations in bioprospecting and other sectors, he said.

As countries emerge from the Coronavirus pandemic, the President called on countries to raise the ambition of their biodiversity targets and also ensure that the recovery effort fosters greater and not less harmony with nature.

Through improved awareness, collaboration and collective determination, we can ensure that we build back both better and greener, he said.  SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2020-10-01. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
New Delhi, Oct 1 : The Indian Army on Thursday celebrated Cho La Day to commemorate the bravery of Indian troops who gave a bloody nose to the Chinese People's Liberation Army troops during clashes at the Cho La pass in 1967.

It was the last time that a skirmish between the soldiers of the two armies turned violent in a major scale, resulting in the death of 200 Indian and 300 PLA troops.

More than 50 years since that incident, the clash in Galwan Valley in Eastren Ladakh on June 15, 2020, which resulted in the killing of 20 Indian soldiers and unverified number of PLA troops, again came as a grim reminder that skirmishes which start with fistfights and stone pelting can degrade into bloody clashes.

The incident at Cho La was preceded by heavy fighting between the Indian and Chinese armies between September 11 and September 14, 1967, over the construction of an iron fence by India in the Nathu La sector in Sikkim border to prevent Chinese incursions.

The Black Cat Division at the time was headed by Lt Gen Sagat Singh, who later became the hero of the 1971 war with Pakistan that liberated Bangladesh.

China had been encouraged to press home its perceived advantage over India after the 1962 conflict and the Indo-Pak war of 1965. It felt that India was on the backfoot and could be bullied into ceding more of its territory, a fatal mistake also made by Pakistan when it initiated a war against India in 1965 based on similar false assumptions.

China challenged Indian troops after a few incidents that occurred just before the clashes. Two Indian diplomats at the Indian Embassy in Beijing had been indicted by the Communist government on false charges of spying, which was rejected by India.

When the two diplomats returned to India, they were given a hero's welcome and people, especially in New Delhi, damaged the properties of the Chinese Embassy in India, to the extent of bringing down the Chinese flag and tearing it apart.

Also, during the course of the Indo-Pak war of 1965, PLA troops, as is their wont, had transgressed into India and killed three armed personnel in the vicinity of Tsaskur on September 19, 1965.

China also attempted to take over Nathu La in 1965 but Lt Gen Sagat Singh rebuffed their attempts.

All these episodes, coupled with the aggressive and revisionist attitude of the CPC government in China against India, had led to a situation where India was always termed as the aggressor despite all incidents and transgressions being initiated by the Chinese side.

The Indian Army sustained heavy casualties on September 11, 1967 due to the openness of the terrain and the suddenness of the assault which came in the form of murderous MMG fire by the Chinese.

However, between September 12 and September 14, India gained ascendancy over the Chinese using precise but deadly artillery fire and hand to hand combats in selected places.

On October 1, 1967, the Chinese attempted to intrude into the Sikkim side of the China-India border but due to the bravery of the Indian troops and their accurate firing, were forced to withdraw up to 3 km beyond Cho La after sustaining significant casualties.
Lugano, Switzerland, 1 October 2020 - The Molecular Analysis for Precision oncology (MAP) Congress (1) is designed to answer the critical question about how to integrate the wealth of information coming from the analysis of tumour samples into daily practice.

The programme (2) will provide oncologists with expert guidance to seek and identify actionable mutations in patient's DNA to provide the best possible personalised treatment.

Major themes - Molecular targeting

- Clonal evolution

- Epigenetics

- Mechanisms of IO toxicity

- Biomarkers for immunotherapeutics

- New technologies for therapeutic targeting

Keynote lecture

- 'KRAS' by Mariano Barbacid Montalban, ES - 10 October at 12:00 CEST

Media registration

To apply for media accreditation, please fill out the?media registration form.? (3)

In addition to having access to sessions, live Q&A with invited speakers, e-poster area, virtual exhibition area, and industry satellite symposia, accredited journalists will also have access to the Meeting webcasts.?

Further information

MAP Press Office

media@esmo.org?

MAP is a joint initiative of Cancer Research UK (CRUK), Unicancer and the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO). (4, 5, 6)

###

References

(1) Molecular Analysis for Precision oncology (MAP) Congress https://www.esmo.org/meetings/map-virtual-2020

(2) Programme https://www.esmo.org/meetings/map-virtual-2020/programme

(3) Media registration form https://esmo.formstack.com/forms/media_registration_form_map2020virtual

(4) Cancer Research UK (CRUK) https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/

(5) Unicancer http://www.unicancer.fr/

(6) European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) https://www.esmo.org/

Notes to Editors

Please make sure to use the official name of the meeting in your reports: MAP 2020 Official Congress hashtag: #MAP20

About the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO)

ESMO is the leading professional organisation for medical oncology. With more than 25,000 members representing oncology professionals from over 160 countries worldwide, ESMO is the society of reference for oncology education and information. ESMO is committed to offer the best care to people with cancer, through fostering integrated cancer care, supporting oncologists in their professional development, and advocating for sustainable cancer care worldwide.

Founded in 1975, ESMO has European roots with a global reach. Home for all oncology stakeholders, ESMO connects professionals with diverse expertise and experience. Its education and information resources support an integrated multi-professional approach to cancer care, from a medical oncology perspective. ESMO seeks to erase boundaries in cancer care, whether between countries or specialities, and pursue its mission across oncology, worldwide.

About Cancer Research UK (CRUK)

Cancer Research UK (CRUK) is the largest independent funder of cancer research in Europe, and the world's leading charity dedicated to cancer research. Today, 2 in 4 people survive their cancer for at least 10 years; Cancer Research UK's ambition is to accelerate progress so that by 2034, 3 in 4 people will survive their cancer for at least 10 years. We fund high-calibre, innovative research that we believe has the potential to provide the greatest benefit to the public and cancer patients.

Our diverse portfolio spans a breadth of research areas, from fundamental discovery research to understand the biology and causes of cancer, through translational research to bring the latest discoveries to the benefit of patients, to drug discovery to identify potential new treatments, clinical research to deliver the best treatments for patients, and population-level research covering epidemiology, prevention and early detection of cancer.

We are proud to support 4,000 researchers, doctors and nurses in institutions across the UK and internationally. Our progress is dependent on these outstanding individuals and teams conducting high-quality research.

About Unicancer

Unicancer is the only French hospital network 100% dedicated to the fight against cancer and the only national hospital federation dedicated to oncology. Unicancer is also the leading national academic sponsor of clinical trials in oncology in Europe. Its Research and Development Department is responsible for implementing its overall research strategy. She is ISO 9001 certified for her clinical research.

Key figures 2019: 18 French Cancer Comprehensive Centers (FCCC), private non-profit health establishments, spread over 20 hospital sites in France, also certified for their clinical research; 530,000 patients per year (short-stay, HAH and external procedures); 1/3 of French international publications in the field of oncology (source: bibliometric study/ Thomson Reuters); 100 active clinical trials promoted by Unicancer's R&D, 46 of which are in recruitment, involving 6,257 patients included in 195 research centres, 24 of which are abroad; 57,000 patients registered in the ESME real life data programme.
Jacom Stephens/Getty Images

San Francisco police and the California Highway Patrol safely detained and transported an individual in crisis to a local hospital after crisis negotiators talked a man off a ledge Wednesday on Interstate 80.

The incident closed the eastbound lanes of I-80 east of the Fourth Street off-ramp in San Francisco for four hours as emergency personnel attempted to speak with the individual whom officials identified a 57-year-old homeless man from Oklahoma.
By Jonathan Zimmerman

On June 27, 1991, Justice Thurgood Marshall announced his retirement from the United States Supreme Court. The next day, a reporter asked him whether President George H. W. Bush had an obligation to appoint another minority judge in his place.

I dont think that should be a ploy, Marshall replied, and I dont think it should be an excuse, one way or the other. The reporter asked him to clarify: an excuse for what? I mean for picking the wrong kind of Negro, Marshall said, in his characteristically colorful (and politically incorrect) fashion. My dad told me way back that theres no difference between a white snake and a black snake. Theyll both bite.

Ive been thinking about these remarks since President Trump nominated Amy Coney Barrett to replace Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who died on Sept. 18. Like Marshall, my fellow liberals have denounced the Barrett choice as a cynical ploy to use identity politics  in this case, gender  to change the ideological makeup of the court. But maybe we should also use this moment to rethink identity politics itself.

Why, exactly, does it matter how many minorities  or how many women  sit on the United States Supreme Court?

The most famous (or, to some, infamous) answer was provided by Sonia Sotomayor, several years before she joined the court. In a 2001 speech at the University of California, Berkeley law school, Sotomayor said that a judges racial and gender background influence their experience and  most controversially  how they rule from the bench.

I would hope that a wise Latina woman with the richness of her experiences would more often reach a better conclusion than a white male who hasnt lived that life, Sotomayor suggested.

Pressed about this comment at her confirmation hearing in 2009, Sotomayor tried to walk it back. I do not believe that any ethnic, racial or gender group has an advantage in sound judging, she declared. Unconvinced, several Republican senators voted against her confirmation because they feared her background would interfere with her judicial reasoning.

But now the GOP has gone full-in for identity politics on the Supreme Court. Even before he nominated Amy Coney Barrett, Trump said he would pick a woman to replace Ruth Bader Ginsburg. And at the ceremony introducing Barrett, he happily announced that she would become the first mother with school-age children to sit on the nations highest court. He even thanked her seven kids for sharing your incredible mom with our country, which drew sustained applause from the conservative crowd.

When George H. W. Bush picked Clarence Thomas, by contrast, he insisted that Thomas was the best qualified candidate and that race had nothing to do with the nomination. That wasnt true, of course, but at least Bush gave lip service to the principle that we should evaluate judges by their merits rather than their identities.

And thats precisely what all of us should do, with Amy Coney Barrett and everyone else. Choosing justices based on their race or gender implies that people who share the same identity will also share the same experience and ideology. But all you have to do is look at Barrett and Ginsburg  or Marshall and Thomas  to know that isnt true.

Joe Biden has gone Donald Trump one better in the identity-politics sweepstakes, pledging to fill his first Supreme Court vacancy with a Black woman. Channeling Thurgood Marshall, he would presumably avoid the wrong kind of a female candidate  you know, a conservative like Amy Coney Barrett. But the entire line of argument plays into the GOPs hands right now. Hey, Democrats, you kept saying you wanted a diverse court! And now you want to keep a woman off it?

Writing back in 2009, no less an authority than Ta-Nehisi Coates denounced Sonia Sotomayors wise Latina comment for collapsing the differences between Latinas as well as between whites. The problem with this reasoning is it implicitly accepts the logic (made for years by white racists) that there is something essential and unifying about our racial and gender categories, Coates wrote.

There isnt. I hope Amy Coney Barrett doesnt join the Supreme Court because I disagree strongly with her views about abortion, Obamacare and much else. I couldnt care less that shes a woman. Neither should you.

Jonathan Zimmerman teaches education and history at the University of Pennsylvania. He is the author of The Amateur Hour: A History of College Teaching in America, which will be published next month by Johns Hopkins University Press.

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Two more staff members connected to McMasters department of psychology, neuroscience and behaviour have been sanctioned by the school following complaints related to the universitys sexual violence policy  bringing the total number of people sanctioned to seven.

In an update Wednesday, the university announced that a former staff member of the department  who still works at the university  has been put on leave following a complaint of an alleged past sexual assault. Theyve since been barred from campus, the update added.

A spokesperson for McMaster did not answers questions about which department the staff member was working in, but did confirm that the leave is paid.

Meanwhile, in response to a separate allegation another current staff member of the department has been restricted from interacting with students.

Both of these incidents are being investigated under the sexual violence policy and have arisen from the universitys review of the department.

Its unclear what impact the latest development has had on the department.

Wade Hemsworth, a McMaster spokesperson, said Maureen MacDonald, dean of science, is in close contact with the department and is concentrating on supporting the department, including its students, faculty and staff while making sure the process is as thorough and fair as possible.

Wednesdays update marked the sixth and seventh allegation against the department since the university launched its initial investigation that began in February with associate professor Scott Watter, who runs the cognitive science lab at McMaster and was suspended by the school.

At that time, McMaster also told police about complaints against Watter. In June, Hamilton police charged Watter with sexual assault and sexual assault causing bodily harm.

In late July, the university announced two more faculty members of the department had been suspended and barred from campus.

That led the university to launch its own investigation to identify any systemic or cultural issues within the department that need to be surfaced and addressed within the department, said university president David Farrar in a July 28 letter.

A week later, a grad student from the department was also suspended and barred from campus.

Then in mid-August, another faculty member of the department was barred from interacting with students.

Other than Watter, no one else involved in the investigation has been named.

So far, little is known about the review, which is being led by an investigator from Toronto-based law firm Rubin Thomlinson LLP.

Information is still being gathered by the investigator and there is no fixed end date for the investigation, Hemsworth said in an email.

Jackie Penman, spokesperson for the Hamilton police, told The Spectator on Wednesday that they are aware and are working closely with McMaster on the investigation.

University officials advise anyone who needs assistance to consult its sexual violence protocols at svpro.mcmaster.ca and the student wellness centre via wellness.mcmaster.ca.
MEMOIR

LETTERS FROM THE BLITZ

By Richard MacAlpine (History Press 14.99, 208pp)

What an outspoken and fervent patriot Winifred Graville, of 66 Ringinglow Road, Sheffield, was!

If the Americans of exactly 80 years ago thought Britain was cowering under the Blitz and braced for certain invasion by the Germans, Miss Graville was jolly well going to set the record straight.

In a series of vivid letters to her American cousin Jane, of Penn Yan, New York State, Miss Graville described daily life in Sheffield from 1940 to 1942: the horrifying realities of the Blitz unleashed by Messrs Murderers & co, as she called the Nazis, and the admirable resilience of her fellow countrymen and women.

A new book recalls the letters Winifred Graville penned to her American cousin Jane, of Penn Yan, New York State, during the Blitz. Pictured: People trying on gas masks in Sheffield

Relentlessly cheerful, her correspondence was published in Janes local newspaper, the Chronicle-Express, and so it was that this unmarried, churchgoing, jam-making horticulturalist in her 50s, who lived with her maid Doris and her canary Dickie (who had his own gas-mask), became an unlikely ambassadress for Britain in the campaign to sway the Americans away from isolationism.

Due to Nazi propaganda pouring daily into the U.S., they had been led to believe the British were starving, nervous wrecks. This lie was too much for Miss Graville. I wish you good people of America would not think of us as a beleaguered island, she wrote. The Nazis will not terrify us into submission, as they are beginning to find out.

She also wanted to disabuse the U.S. of its belief that it was safe. PREPARE, she advised. Hitler is after America, too.

We get an amazingly vivid sense of what it was like to live in Sheffield during those first two years of the war. Miss Graville evokes the exhaustion of endless sleepless nights: going to bed with a hot-water bottle and being woken up five minutes later by Wailing Willie, the air-raid warning.

LETTERS FROM THE BLITZ by Richard MacAlpine (History Press 14.99, 208pp)

The one thing for which shes grateful to Hitler is that at least she manages to get her knitting done during those long nights.

At first, shes insistent that she and Doris must be fully dressed before going down to the shelter. But that strict rule is relaxed as the war goes on.

Sheffields nights of appalling horror were over December 12 and 15, 1940, when 500 bombs were dropped on the city at the rate of three per minute. How it is I am alive? Miss Graville wrote the next morning.

Six hundred civilians were killed. Massive damage was done to the civic buildings and shops. The deacon of her church and his wife burned to death in their cellar. Her embroidery teacher was killed in her own home. Yet those Sheffield shopkeepers dusted themselves down and went back to work.

Business as usual. Try again, Old Nasty, one notice said on a shop window.

I dont want you to think Im whining, Miss Graville writes to her cousin, but I am sure a detailed, first-hand account will interest you and be good for those Americans who think America should stand aloof. Once again, she hammers that message home.

Did Miss Gravilles letter-writing campaign have any hand in getting the U.S. to ally with Britain? Richard MacAlpine, who has edited these letters, doubts it.

But who knows? Even if she changed the minds of just a handful of inhabitants of the village of Penn Yan, her letters were not in vain.
ALLENTOWN, Pa., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- PPL Corporation (NYSE: PPL) announced today that Arthur P. Beattie, an executive with more than four decades of experience in the utility industry, will join the company's board of directors.

Beattie, who retired in 2018 as Southern Company's executive vice president, chief financial officer and chief risk officer, will serve on PPL's Audit Committee. His appointment to the board is effective today.

"Art brings to the board a wealth of knowledge and experience in regulated utilities, financial planning and reporting, enterprise risk management, and mergers and acquisitions," said PPL Board Chair William H. Spence. "His skills and insight will complement well the strengths of our diverse and experienced board as we best position PPL for long-term growth and success."

Prior to his role as Southern Company's CFO and chief risk officer from 2010 to 2018, a role in which he was responsible for accounting, treasury, financial planning, tax, risk management and investor relations functions, Beattie served for five years as executive vice president and CFO of Alabama Power Company, a Southern subsidiary. Before that, he served nearly three decades in a variety of other leadership roles at Alabama Power.

Beattie holds a bachelor's degree in finance from the University of Tennessee and a master's degree in business administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He has prior public company board experience as a director for Emageon, Inc., from 2004 to 2009. Beattie has also served as a board member for several charitable foundations and nonprofit organizations, including the Alabama School of Fine Arts Foundation, Greater Birmingham Salvation Army Advisory Board, Southern Company Foundation and Alabama Power Foundation.

Headquartered in Allentown, Pennsylvania, PPL Corporation (NYSE: PPL) is one of the largest companies in the U.S. utility sector. PPL's seven high-performing, award-winning utilities serve more than 10 million customers in the U.S. and U.K. With more than 12,000 employees, the company is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and reliability and delivering superior value for shareowners. To learn more, visit www.pplweb.com.

Note to Editors: Visit our media website at www.pplnewsroom.com for additional news and background about PPL Corporation.

Contacts: For news media: Ryan Hill, 610-774-4033

For financial analysts: Andy Ludwig, 610-774-3389

SOURCE PPL Corporation

Related Links

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COVID-19 has been officially recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as transmissible through tiny air particles, so an indoor spread is likely to happen.

Indoor spread can happen when people with COVID-19 talk, cough, or breathe. The proclamation led to more questions about airborne transmission of the virus.

Even more pressing questions on indoor spread are also likely to arise as schools and businesses start to reopen.

A crucial part of reducing the indoor spread of COVID-19 is managing air circulation. Using air circulation systems can help with this effort.

But a new study also concluded that these systems have limited ability to remove the virus from the air in rooms or buildings.

The more important part about using air circulation to your advantage is setting up the right systems.

There are many efforts the experts say may help, according to Healthline. These efforts won't cost too much time or money.

Here are some ways to reduce the indoor spread of COVID-19:

More Fresh Air Indoors

Opening windows and doors to get fresh air will help dilute the number of infected droplets within two minutes, said Rainald Lohner of George Mason University.

Using fresh air will make invisible infection clouds less infectious.

"The probability of infection increases with the time that particles remain in the room," Lohner said in a TODAY report. "And it also increases with the number of particles that you inhale. Ventilation is very important."

Opening windows to replace indoor air is the simplest and less costly ways to create better air circulation at home. But at school or certain buildings, not all windows can be opened.

Weather also plays a part in getting fresh air since you can't open your windows in the middle of very cold outside temperatures.

If you can't do this method, there are still other ways.

Upgrade Filters

Another effective option to improve air quality in indoor spaces is to have a room air filter or cleaner. These devices recycle and filter the air in a room, and can be handy if windows can't be opened.

Those who use this method will have to make sure the right size of the air cleaner for your room. People also have to ensure it has a certified air cleaning rate. A higher rate means better air quality.

Checking for a high-efficiency filter or HEPA is also important when getting air cleaners.

Wear Masks Properly

Masks are also effective in reducing aerosols that could cause the indoor spread of COVID-19.

Researchers are studying how well masks might reduce the risk of inhaling aerosols.

According to Linsey Marr, PhD, a Virginia Tech University civil and environmental engineering professor, a loosely tied bandana can block at least half of aerosols larger than two microns.

Marr also wrote in a New York Times article that softer fabrics work better for very small aerosols. She said stiffer fabrics tend to sit more awkwardly against the skin, creating gaps.

For masks, fit and proper use is always the key variable.

"It's going to be effective, but how effective it is depends on how rigorous the individual is," said Jiarong Hong, PhD, MS, of the University of Minnesota.

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Press Release

October 1, 2020 Dispatch from Crame No. 928:

Sen. Leila M. de Lima on the DepEd proposal to hire Para-Teachers A few of my colleagues at the Senate have urged the DepEd to fill its 55,000-plus vacancies - over 34,000 of which are teaching positions - in order to fully implement the blended learning modality for the coming school year. Let me make it clear that I also echo this sentiment. Thousands of teachers have been displaced owing to the closure of private schools which could no longer maintain operations amid the pandemic. Marapat lang na mabigyan sila ng pagkakataon na muling makapagturo at makapaghanapbuhay. These vacancies have to be filled as soon as possible. However, I must also express concern that simply hiring more teachers to implement the program may become problematic because of the inherent unpredictability of the situation. This is why I laud the DepEd's innovative plan to hire para-teachers to assist distance learners with their lessons. By acknowledging that not all parents are capable of teaching their children, DepEd saw this need for para-teachers to materialize and the opportunity to introduce local, community-based solutions to the problem of distance learning. With this proposal, DepEd has effectively conceded that a top-down approach alone cannot be counted upon to implement the monumental task of blended learning modality for students owing to the differing contexts and needs of each learner under the program. The DepEd may be on to something here. Kudos to them for thinking outside the box and heeding the concerns of millions of parents and guardians who need help teaching their children. In the meantime, I urge my colleagues to thoroughly examine and scrutinize the DepEd budget to optimize its allocations in preparation for this transition. Let us leave no stone unturned in order to guarantee that the funding for public education is altogether sufficient and properly allocated to be able to meet the needs of both our educators and learners amid this health crisis. Let us ensure that DepEd can stay true to its word that, indeed, no child will be left behind. (Access the handwritten version of Dispatch from Crame No. 928, here: https://issuu.com/senatorleilam.delima/docs/dispatch_928)
New Delhi:

Handling of a mobile phone by different persons can lead to spread of infection as it gives rise to bacterial pathogens, the government on Friday said.

Minister of State for Health Faggan Singh Kulaste in a written reply in Lok Sabha said the Indian Council of Medical Research has issued guidelines on hospital infection control to reduce infections in hospitals in general.

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has informed that in a recent study conducted by Pal et al. in 2015, on 386 participants, it was found that 81.8 per cent mobile phones and 80 per cent hand swabs showed bacterial pathogen growth.

Directorate General of Health Services has informed that there is risk of spread of infection by handling same mobile phone set by different people without taking proper precautions of hand hygiene, he said.

He was asked whether scientists have warned that mobile phones spread infections in hospitals.

Kulaste said ICMR has issued guidelines on Hospital Infection Control to reduce infections in hospitals in general.

He said the government has not conducted any survey about the number of persons who get infections in hospitals in the country.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
HARTFORD  Bridgeport would get a federally funded Election Day monitor under legislation aimed at helping expedite absentee ballot processing.

The legislation, which was overwhelmingly approved in the state House of Representatives late Wednesday afternoon, does not name Bridgeport specifically. It refers to a city with a population of more than 140,000. Bridgeport, the largest city in the state, is the only municipality that fits the definition.

The bill, which heads to the state Senate later this week, passed 139-5 after a brief 45-minute debate.

The city has a history of election problems including absentee ballot irregularities, most recently in the 2019 Democratic mayoral primary, which remains under investigation by the State Elections Enforcement Commission.

The bill, which was introduced in the House about 5:15 p.m., indicates that the monitor, who would be contracted under the federal aid the state received under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act, would have a variety of duties including conducting inspections and investigations related to the way the city handles the election.

Overall, the bill is aimed at making it easier for local election officials to open the outer envelopes that contain the inner envelopes that contain completed absentee ballots. Those are slated to be opened on Oct. 30, before the Nov. 3 election.

The state expects a record amount of mailed-in ballots in the lingering coronavirus pandemic.

Rep. Dan Fox, D-Stamford, co-chairman of the Government Administration and Elections Committee, said that, so far, 355,000 ballot applications have been returned to local voting officials, who are sending back ballot forms.

Those numbers are growing on a daily basis, Fox told lawmakers.

Fox said in an interview on the House floor that the monitor section of the legislation was inserted into the bill at the request of the Bridgeport delegation.

They will be keeping an eye on election activity and irregularities, monitoring the process and getting in touch with the Secretary of the State if needed, Fox said, stressing that the State Elections Enforcement Commission is the overarching regulatory authority.

kdixon@ctpost.com Twitter: @KenDixonCT
Total Bellas star Nikki Bella admitted there were times she 'hated' fiance Artem Chigvintsev in the weeks after welcoming their first child - son Matteo Artemovich - on July 31.

'It just started to build up. Being alone with Matteo and just feeling lonely and not loved and invisible,' the 36-year-old retired WWE wrestler said on Wednesday's episode of The Bellas Podcast.

'He's like, "At times, I felt like you were starting to hate me." He's like, "You could be mean." And I'm not gonna lie, I did have moments of being mean. I did have moments when I looked at him and I hated him. It's true. There were times I'd look at him and I'm like, "I think I hate you."'

Baby blues: Total Bellas star Nikki Bella admitted there were times she 'hated' fiance Artem Chigvintsev in the weeks after welcoming their first child - son Matteo Artemovich - on July 31 (pictured August 28)

The 36-year-old retired WWE wrestler said on Wednesday's The Bellas Podcast: 'It just started to build up. Being alone with Matteo and just feeling lonely and not loved and invisible'

Nikki 'refused to ask for help' and attempted to take an athlete's mentality while suffering with postpartum depression which led to a 'massive breakdown.'

'I am very prideful. I'm competitive. I love being the best, I want to be number one,' Bella (born Stephanie Nicole Garcia-Colace) explained.

'I've always prided myself that I can fight a lot of things mentally. I'm very strong in that way. Postpartum has knocked me on my a**. This is something that is way different.'

Her twin sister Brie Danielson - who welcomed son Buddy Dessert less than 24 hours before her sibling - also admitted to having had a 'little bit of postpartum depression.'

Nikki continued: 'I'm not gonna lie, I did have moments of being mean. I did have moments when I looked at him and I hated him. It's true. There were times I'd look at him and I'm like, "I think I hate you"' (pictured Monday)

'I love being the best': Bella 'refused to ask for help' and attempted to take an athlete's mentality while suffering with postpartum depression which led to a 'massive breakdown'

The two-time WWE Divas Champion explained. 'I've always prided myself that I can fight a lot of things mentally. I'm very strong in that way. Postpartum has knocked me on my a**. This is something that is way different'

'When I looked at you, it's more than just being sleep-deprived,' Brie said.

'She's lonely. She's doing a lot of this on her own...Being parents was never supposed to be this lonely.'

The baby blues are said to last six weeks after childbirth, which is why it's confusing that Nikki previously revealed she began having postpartum sex with the Russian-American 38-year-old at five weeks.

'I didn't even make it to the six-week point, I just started at five. I was like I'm healed, I'm fine!' Bella said on last week's Bellas Podcast.

'Nikki is doing a lot of this on her own': Her twin sister Brie Danielson (R) - who welcomed son Buddy Dessert less than 24 hours before her sibling - also admitted to having had a 'little bit of postpartum depression' (pictured September 23)

Love and hate: The baby blues are said to last six weeks after childbirth, which is why it's confusing that Bella previously revealed she began having postpartum sex with the Russian-American 38-year-old at five weeks (pictured September 14)

The Incomparable co-author said on last week's Bellas Podcast: 'I didn't even make it to the six-week point, I just started at five. I was like I'm healed, I'm fine!'

'Even though last night it didn't seem fine, but that's okay. It was a little different. I felt like organs were about to drop out. I was like, "Shoot! Did I mess up?"'

Artem is currently preparing a Viennese waltz with his dance partner - The Bachelorette #11 Kaitlyn Bristowe - for next Monday's episode of ABC's Dancing With the Stars.

Last week, the Mirrorball Trophy frontrunners scored 23 out of 30 points for their rumba to Moana anthem How Far I'll Go despite the Canadian 35-year-old's ankle injury.

'Top 13': Artem is currently preparing a Viennese waltz with his dance partner - The Bachelorette #11 Kaitlyn Bristowe (R) - for next Monday's episode of ABC's Dancing With the Stars (pictured Wednesday)

Disney Night: Last week, the Mirrorball Trophy frontrunners scored 23 out of 30 points for their rumba to Moana anthem How Far I'll Go despite the Canadian 35-year-old's ankle injury (pictured September 28)

'Team Smackdown': Nikki originally met the Soviet-born hoofer in 2017 while partnered up in the 25th season while she was still technically engaged to John Cena (until April 15, 2018)

The Incomparable co-author originally met Chigvintsev in 2017 while partnered up in the 25th season while she was still technically engaged to John Cena (until April 15, 2018).

Nikki and the Soviet-born hoofer got engaged mid-November in France, and it'll be their second time down the aisle after ending their respective marriages to Giselle Peacock and her unnamed high school sweetheart.

Catch more of the Bella Twins in the sixth season of Total Bellas, which premieres this fall on E!
SOUTH SIOUX CITY -- Five people were arrested Wednesday after two shots fired incidents occurred in a residential area over a 12-plus hour period.

At approximately 9:36 p.m. Tuesday, South Sioux City Police were notified of shots fired at an occupied residence at the 200 block of East 16th Street. No one was injured in this incident and police say it remains under investigation.

At around 11:46 a.m. Wednesday, another shots fired report incident occurred at the same residence. Police say several individuals in dark clothing were seen walking toward the house and shots were fired as they came closer.

While the house and two other neighboring homes were struck by bullets, no one was injured. However, Police Chief Ed Mahon said the incident led to a 40-minute lockdown at South Sioux City Community Schools as a safety precaution.

According to a news release, suspects from the Wednesday morning incident fled the scene after residents from the struck home chased them. A 2005 silver Acura was involved in the shooting. It crashed about a block away.

Police say that the van's occupants exited the vehicle, firing rounds towards the individuals who were chasing them. No one was injured in this incident but a nearby unoccupied residence was struck.

Daniel Hilden, 32, and Francisco J. Ceron, 26, were arrested shortly after the shooting.

Hilden was charged with conspiracy to commit a second degree assault, conspiracy to use a deadly weapon to commit a felony and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. Ceron was charged with conspiracy to commit a second degree assault and conspiracy to use a deadly weapon to commit a felony.

Following further investigation, David Hernandez, 23, Alvaro Vite, 23, and Miguel A. Ceron, 24, were later arrested at a residence on East 12th Street.

Hernandez was charged with criminal attempt to commit a second degree assault, use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and unlawful discharged of a firearm into a dwelling.

Vite was charged with conspiracy to commit a second degree assault, conspiracy to use a deadly weapon to commit a felony and possession of a controlled substance.

Miguel Ceron was charged with conspiracy to commit a second degree assault, conspiracy use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony, and aiding and abetting in an attempt to commit a second degree assault.

The South Sioux City Police Department was assisted by the Dakota County Sheriff's Office and other law enforcement departments in this investigation.

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In what can be considered as the first public use of SpaceXs internet-from-space system, Starlink satellites, emergency responders in Washington are using the internet to reach residents devastated by wildfires.

Elon Musks firm has loaned seven of its terminals to access its satellites to the Washington Emergency Management Division (WEMD). Using the satellites, the rural areas are getting connected to the internet, thus pacing up the rescue and relief work.

SpaceX plans to put 12,000 satellites in orbit at various altitudes in the Starlink constellation. These low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites will form the expansive Starlink broadband network, designed to provide worldwide high-speed internet access by ensuring that at least one satellite is always above the horizon for anyone on Earth. With about 800 satellites sent to the orbit till now, the whole plan is likely to take some time to finish. But it is already proving to be useful.

The public information officer of WEMD Steven Friederich spoke with CNN and said how WEMD had already contacted SpaceX and was in discussion with the firm about improving access to more reliable internet in rural areas when a rural town in eastern Washington called Malden experienced a devastating wildfire.

According to the Whitman County Sheriff's Office, about 80 percent of the homes and buildings in Malden were completely destroyed by the fast moving wildfire that struck the area on 7 September.

Following this, the loaned terminals were set up to connect the residents and emergency respondents via the internet. When asked for a comment, SpaceX spokespersons refused to do so but instead pointed to a reply written by CEO Elon Musk to WEMDs tweet.

The emergency management division had posted pictures of the devastation and how the terminals were proving to be useful, thanking SpaceXs satellites.

Happy to have the support of @SpaceXs Starlink internet as emergency responders look to help residents rebuild the town of Malden, WA that was overcome by wildfires earlier this month. #wawildfire pic.twitter.com/xUSQOjcT4T  WA Emergency Management  (@waEMD) September 28, 2020

To this Musk wrote that he was glad SpaceX could help and the firm was prioritizing emergency responders & locations with no Internet connectivity at all.
A key crossbench senator is demanding more funding for student places at South Australia's three universities as one condition of passing the government's signature funding reforms through the Senate.

South Australian minor party Centre Alliance will now decide the fate of the Morrison government's Job-Ready Graduates bill after Tasmanian Senator Jacqui Lambie ruled out her support.

Centre Alliance MP Rebekha Sharkie said the party would not support the government's university funding bill in its current form. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

Centre Alliance MP Rebekha Sharkie is leading the negotiations with the government over the bill, which will need Senator Griff's support to pass, but she said the party would not support it in its current form.

"As it stands at the moment, no we don't [support it]," Ms Sharkie told ABC Radio in Adelaide on Thursday.
Arianna Saarinen had mapped out the days until she opened her tavern.

Saarinen would quit her pool hall job of 20 years on a Tuesday. She and her partner would spend the next few days preparing for customers over the weekend before the West Boylston tavern grand opening the following Tuesday. She had revived the space that once belonged to Finders Pub, where she had also worked as a manger, and was ready to let the customers back in.

That Tuesday was March 17, the same day Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker ordered bars to shut down for the foreseeable future as COVID-19 cases started rising. With more than $350,000 sunken into the repairs alone, Saarinen stayed on standby.

Were just trying to open and be successful. Thats it, said the owner of Aris Tavern, which opened its doors in late June.

Six months after the governor shut down non-essential businesses, taverns like Aris remain limited in how much they revenue can bring in and bars are sidelined altogether as other businesses resume operations with social distancing and mask restrictions. While public health officials say bars are potential COVID-19 hotspots, bar and tavern owners say their businesses are singled out as other possible virus magnets reopen.

Its incomprehensible that the government can shutter one business and open another, said Michael Erlich, an attorney who owns Whiskey on Water.

The Worcester bar and nightclub is more of a hobby for Erlich, and he managed to get some of his rent deferred, paying a little back along the way. Still, he said it has greatly affected his employees who rely on the income.

Thats why we can survive. If we had to rely on this to live, it would be really difficult, he said. I cant imagine people here and business owners that have to rely on a bar to go on.

Baker announced Tuesday that a larger share of businesses would be allowed to resume operations while bars stay shuttered. Communities that havent been considered high risk over the past three weeks will see roller rinks, laster tag, trampolines, obstacle courses and performance venue - both indoor and outdoor - allowed to reopen with 50% capacity or a limit of 250 people, whichever is lower.

Gyms, museums, libraries, driving schools and flight academies were also allowed to expand to 50% capacity.

Nothing from the state stops residents of higher-risk communities from traveling to low-risk communities to play laser tag or go to a small concert. The latest changes mostly apply to the businesses in those communities.

Most businesses in Massachusetts have gradually reopened, albeit with lower traffic, since the state first closed non-essential businesses to stem the spread of COVID-19. The coronavirus led to more than 125,000 positive cases and more than 9,200 deaths in Massachusetts alone.

Massachusetts' restrictions for most of the spring and summer are a stark contract to the COVID-19 guidelines in Texas, Florida and Georgia, among other states. When Dr. Anthony Fauci was asked about Floridas decision to lift all restrictions on bars and restaurants, the nations top infectious disease expert said told ABCs Good Morning America he found it very concerning.

The Baker administrations attempt to close non-essential businesses hasnt always worked. The state has faced multiple lawsuits against his executive orders, including one from gun shop owners, another from a church pastor, one from an arcade owner and even one from hair salon owners that challenge the constitutionality of the executive orders themselves.

When Baker first announced the phased reopening, bars were expected to reopen in Phase 3. The Baker administration quietly moved bars to Phase 4 weeks later. Phase 4 can only takes effect when a vaccine becomes available, according to the states guidelines.

Many bars managed to reopen because they serve food. As of last week, restaurants with bar seating were allowed to start letting customers sit at the counter.

A handful of bars reopened selling only booze and snacks, claiming they qualified as food establishments. The state clarified its rules in August to close that loophole.

Whiskey on Water could have reopened if they made some modifications to serve food, Erlich said, but he didnt want to try to skirt the regulations.

Billy Stetson, owner of the Rumbleseat Bar & Grille in Chicopee, is actually seeing more customers since he runs a full-service restaurant and isnt competing with as many bars. But he sees it as a symptom of a larger problem with the reopening process.

I feel for my friends that are just bars. You cant really explain to me, if people are staying seated, how sitting at a table is more dangerous than sitting at a table with a beer and a sandwich, said Billy Stetson, owner of the Rumbleseat Bar & Grille in Chicopee. Im still struggling with the inconsistencies in all the rules.

The Rumbleseat didnt always have full-kitchen service. In its first year, Stetson wasnt using the kitchen. He hired a cook the next year and started growing the bar and grilles menu over the next two decades.

I do realize that that could have been me if that was the first year that I was opened up, he said. I dont think its fair.

File photo of the bar at the Rumbleseat in Chicopee.

Trivia troubles

Employees undergo temperature checks, customers sign in and everyone wears masks at Aris Tavern, Saarinen said. Each table has a QR code that contains the online menu for customers who have smartphones; she also has disposable menus for residents who dont have the technology.

While business was good under the circumstances, Saarinen said she has struggled to navigate the red tape of the state and local governments during the pandemic.

Saarinen hosted trivia and karaoke for two months at Aris Tavern before the state stepped in. The karaoke involved throwaway mic covers, though researchers suggest singing in group settings can help spread the virus. The trivia night, however, had customers delivering answers through a smartphone app.

Not one person has reported being sick. Ive not gotten one phone call of a complaint, she said.

At least not until the email from a Department of Labor Standards official. The state official warned her to cease all trivia and karaoke activities or get a written warning. Saarinen said she canceled the events and got a warning anyway.

Less than a month earlier, Aris Tavern had passed its annual health inspection.

A local health inspector took note of the socially distanced karaoke setup in early September, according to an inspection record provided to MassLive. She appeared to take no issue with the equipment. (The local health agent later notified Saarinen saying she just found out about the states complaint, according to an email.)

No one is even near each other, she said. Is the next thing the governor going to come out with is we cant use cell phones at our own tables?

To Saarinen, the state chipped away at one of the few smartphone activities that helped bring in clientele to a new business.

She emailed the state asking for clarity on the states guidance, explaining patrons play trivia on their smartphones and were far apart.

Patrons are allowed to play the lottery touching used pencils but cant be seated to play trivia on their own devices?" Saarinen wrote. "Is there something more specific that you can send me of the guidelines? Everything is so vague.

The DLS official responded with the states checklist on what activities are allowed in restaurants: The only activities allowed in restaurants are described in the standard ... We understand your concern but we are unable to elaborate at this time.

Related Content:
President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally at the Duluth International Airport in Duluth, Minn., on Sept. 30, 2020. (Stephen Maturen/Getty Images)

We Won Big, Trump Says at Packed Minnesota Rally After First Presidential Debate

President Donald Trump returned to the campaign trail on Wednesday, telling a packed crowd at a rally in Duluth, Minnesota, that he had won the first presidential debate against his opponent, former Vice President Joe Biden.

The verdict is in and they say that we, we, all of us, won big last night, Trump told the crowd.

It was uncertain at the time what metric Trump was referring to. However, a poll by CSPAN on Twitter that had more than 325,500 votes saw 69 percent in favor of Trump, and 18.7 percent in favor of Biden.

On Thursday, Trump said on Twitter that he had won the debate based on a compilation of polls.

I won the debate big, based on compilation of polls etc. Thank you!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 1, 2020

Trump lost Minnesota to Hillary Clinton in 2016 by about 1.5 percent, or less than 45,000 votes. The Trump campaign is hopeful that he can flip the state in the upcoming election.

The president told supporters late Wednesday of the first presidential debate: Last night, I did what the corrupt media has refused to do. I held Joe Biden accountable for his 47 years of lies, 47 years of betrayal, and 47 years of failure  These are the same media outlets cheering violent demonstrations in the streets: CNN, The New York Times.

Related Coverage After First Debate, Trump and Biden Head Back to Campaign Trail

Im not just running against Joe Biden, Trump added. Im running against the corrupt far-left media, socialists, and communists, and the Democrat Party, and the special interests whove made a living bleeding our country dry.

During the rally, Trump touted his campaign endorsement from various law enforcement organizations. The Republican president joked about how he had asked Biden at the debate to name one group in the entire nation that endorsed the Democrat but Biden was unable to.

President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally at Duluth International Airport in Duluth, Minnesota, on Sept. 30, 2020. (Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images)

Ive got Minnesota now, Ive got everybody, Trump said as he recounted how he had asked Biden, Name one group in the entire nation from law enforcement thats supporting you. Trump then said that debate moderator, Fox Newss Chris Wallace, intervened and moved to another question.

At the rally, Trump denounced Antifaa far-left anarcho-communist group that has been involved in rioting across the United States in recent monthsand pointed out how Biden called Antifa just an idea.

Ideas dont assault cops and they dont burn down buildings, Trump said. Antifa is a domestic terrorist organization.

President Donald Trump speaks at a campaign rally at Duluth International Airport, in Duluth, Minn., on Sept. 30, 2020. (Alex Brandon/AP Photo)

The president continued criticizing his opponent, pointing out how Biden refused to say whether he would pack the Supreme Court, and how Biden did not respond when asked to explain why Bidens son Hunter was paid $3.5 million by the wife of the former mayor of Moscow.

Trump told the crowd that Biden even vowed to eliminate our tax cuts.

That means hell take away your child tax credits, because I gave you child tax credits, $1,000 a child. He wants to take away what I gave you and revoke our historic tax relief, right to the middle class it went, Trump said.

Biden said Wednesday at a campaign speech in New Alexandria, Pennsylvania, Were going to get rid of the  tax cut that Trump passed.

Minnesota Iron Range

Trump late Wednesday voiced his support for Minnesota Iron Range, the main iron ore mining district in the United States, which he called a critical issue. The Obama administration had blocked two copper-mining leases in Minnesota, which Trump later reversed, and the U.S. Department of the Interiors Bureau of Land Management renewed the leases in May 2019.

Obama closed the Iron Range and I opened it  Joe will reinstitute that ban in 2 minutes if we lose. So you better vote for me in Minnesota, Trump said, later warning, If Joe gets in, the radical left will shut down the Iron Range forever. Its going to be gone.

The president also said that he opened up permitting for copper nickel mining. This likely refers to Twin Metalss proposed underground copper nickel mining near near Ely, Minnesota, and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

Trump also said that he strongly supports replacing the decaying Line 3 Enbridge oil pipeline.

Were going to replace it. Its all done. Its all done. All of this is why nine Democrat mayors of cities in the Iron Range have endorsed me over sleepy Joe Biden, Trump told the crowd.

Ahead of Trumps rally, Biden announced a plan (pdf) for the Iron Range to fight for workers, create jobs, and support families. He also announced a list of endorsements from 45 leaders in northern Minnesota.

At Trumps rally late Wednesday, the president noted that he had just signed an executive order to increase domestic production of critical minerals and support U.S. mining jobs in efforts to reduce the nations reliance on China for the minerals.

Related Coverage Trump Declares National Emergency Backing Domestic Mining, Will Reduce Reliance on China for Critical Minerals

Trump said the executive order will provide billions of dollars to jumpstart production of critical and other minerals, which will create countless jobs that are so important for our country.

I will always protect the state of Minnesota. I will do that. Its been very good to me. We almost won it. We almost won it, Trump said.

The president encouraged Minnesotans to go and vote, after early voting opened Sept. 18.

In concluding remarks at the rally, he told supporters: Over the next 4 years, we will make America into the manufacturing superpower of the world. And we will end our reliance on China once and for all.

Tom Ozimek contributed to this report.

Read More Trump and Biden Campaign in Minnesota, Lay Out Differing Visions for Job Creation
A military task force convened in South Carolina on Thursday as leaders there attempt to halt any chance of the Marine Corps abandoning its historic Parris Island boot camp.

South Carolina's Republican Gov. Henry McMaster said last week he was convening the task force meeting after the top Marine general said last week that the service is weighing the possibility of a new entry-level training location where it would train men and women together. A Marine official with knowledge of the situation said the meeting was a regularly scheduled annual event.

Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, the service's East Coast training base, brings in $700 million a year and employs about 6,000 people, local officials there said this week.

Read Next: 'Ain't Gonna Happen!' Politicians Vow to 'Fight Like Hell' to Protect Parris Island from Closure

"We always have concerns about anything that remotely threatens the happiness and prosperity of our people," McMaster said during a Thursday press conference after the meeting. "We're familiar with what the commandant of the Marine Corps said, and I assure you that we will do all we can to see not only that our bases and capacities are not reduced, but are expanded."

Military.com was the first to report last week that the Marines were considering a possible new training site. The move would be a huge change for the service, which has historically shipped recruits to its Parris Island or San Diego boot camp locations.

The service is "looking at all options" when it comes to determining how it will respond to a congressional mandate to make enlisted entry-level training gender-integrated in coming years, Col. Riccoh Player, commanding officer of Headquarters and Service Battalion, told the task force.

Men and women currently attend boot camp at Parris Island, though they have historically trained in separate battalions. The Marine Corps' West Coast recruit depot in San Diego currently only trains men.

"Right now, we are making Marines at Parris Island," Player said. "Right now, we're training women at Parris Island. Are we looking at all options? Absolutely. It would be too early to say, 'This is exactly what we're going to do,' right now in 2020.

"To limit ourselves to one course of action or one avenue, that would be premature," he added.

McMaster said state leaders are confident the Marine Corps will keep its historic Parris Island training base, but added that the commandant's comments have them "on alert."

"We'll be sure that the closure does not happen," the governor told reporters.

Commandant Gen. David Berger said last week that nothing about the way the Marine Corps' recruit depots are currently organized support a move to fully coed training.

"If that's our start point -- and it is -- we have to get to a place on both coasts, or at third location or whatever we end up with, [where] there are male and female recruits around," Berger said.

Player said the Marine Corps is investing tens of millions of dollars to update training ranges and barracks at Parris Island. South Carolina leaders said that while further improvements might be needed to support gender-integrated training at Parris Island by 2025, they're confident their state remains the right location for Marine Corps boot camp.

State Rep. Shannon Erickson, a Republican who represents Beaufort County in the South Carolina House of Representatives, said Parris Island is a national icon that should remain the place the Marine Corps trains its recruits.

"When someone mentions anything about Parris Island and change, the hackles are going to come up on the back of our necks," Erickson said. "... So we're going to be protective and we're going to act quickly -- as you saw strongly with our governor -- at lightning speed to say, 'Not on our watch.' We'll do what we need to do."

Parris Island, McMaster added, is uniquely situated and equipped to not only continue training female recruits and men from East of the Mississippi River, but all future Marines.

"It seems to me it's clear that Parris Island has all the advantages and none of the disadvantages that we need," McMaster said. "If that decision is made to pick one or the other ... we're looking forward to the presence and expansion of Parris Island."

Editor's Note: This story has been updated to correct the characterization of how the meeting was convened.

-- Gina Harkins can be reached at gina.harkins@military.com. Follow her on Twitter @ginaaharkins.

Related: Marines Weigh Closing Parris Island and San Diego to Open New Coed Boot Camp
(Newser)  A Florida woman says the United States Postal Service turned her lottery win into a loss. The woman says she had to forfeit a $1,000 prize in the state's Second Chance lottery after she followed the lottery's instructions and sent the winning ticket by certified mail, only for it to disappear somewhere along the way, Fox reports. The last tracking information shows it in transit at a Tallahassee post office on Aug. 12. With lottery offices closed due to the pandemic, Sue Burgess says she chose certified mail instead of a dropbox because she thought it was safer. "Thats why you choose certified mail, she says. With COVID, I understand the mail is a little bit slow. But for safety sake, certified mail usually has priority."

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Burgess tells WFLA that she was "elated" when Florida Lottery authorities informed her of the win. "It was like a million dollars to me," she says. But when the ticket wasn't received before the deadline, authorities said, "No ticket, no prize," Burgess says. Lottery authorities say the prize money was given to another winner, but they will make an exception to the rule and give Burgess the $1,000 if the envelope eventually turns up and bears a postmark dated before the deadline. The USPS apologized to Burgess and said it is "continuing to work with the lottery office to confirm receipt of the mailpiece" so Burgess can claim the prize. (Read more lottery stories.)
Two notorious conservative operatives were charged Thursday with felonies in connection with false robocalls that aimed to dissuade residents in Detroit and other U.S. cities from voting by mail, Michigan's attorney general announced.

Jacob Wohl, 22, and Jack Burkman, 54, each face four felony counts in Detroit, including conspiring to intimidate voters in violation of election law and using a computer to commit crimes, Attorney General Dana Nessel said.

The calls falsely warned residents in majority-Black Detroit and urban areas in at least four other states that voting by mail in the Nov. 3 election could subject people to arrest, debt collection and forced vaccination, Nessel said.

The men, who have a history of staging hoaxes and spreading false smears against prominent Democrats and government officials, are not in custody and no date for their arraignments has been set.

Nessel said her office would work with local law enforcement to secure their appearances if necessary, saying the men could face arrest and extradition or could voluntarily come to Michigan to face the charges.

A judge found probable cause Thursday to support the charges, which carry the potential for years in prison and thousands of dollars in fines upon conviction. The computer charges carry up to seven years apiece while election law violations could bring up to five in all.

Nessels office warned the public about the calls and launched an investigation in late August after thousands of Detroit residents received them.

Wohl and Burkman both denied involvement at the time. Burkman didn't immediately reply to a Thursday voicemail seeking comment about the charges and Wohl didn't immediately reply to an email.

Nessel said the investigation found that Burkman and Wohl created and funded the robocalls in an attempt to deter voters of color from participating in the November election.

Were all well aware of the frustrations caused by the millions of nuisance robocalls flooding our cellphones and landlines each day, but this particular message poses grave consequences for our democracy and the principles upon which it was built, Nessel said. Michigan voters are entitled to a full, free and fair election in November, and my office will not hesitate to pursue those who jeopardize that.

Nessel said 85,000 calls were believed to have been made across the nation. She said nearly 12,000 residents in the 313 ZIP code received the calls in Detroit, and that similar calls also blanketed urban pockets of Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois and New York. And she encouraged anyone who received such a call to file a complaint with her office.

Wohl and Burkman have a history of supporting President Donald Trump and attacking his political opponents.

Michigan is a key battleground state that Trump narrowly won in 2016 in part due to a drop in turnout for Hillary Clinton in heavily Democratic Detroit. in Michigan, voters can cast an absentee ballot for any reason, either by mailing it in, dropping it off or filling one out at a clerks office.

The caller identified herself as part of Project 1559 and said it was a group founded by Wohl and Burkman. The calls falsely claimed that voting by mail would result in personal information going into databases that will be used by police to resolve old warrants, credit card companies to collect debts and federal officials to track mandatory vaccines.

Dont be finessed into giving your private information to the man, the caller said. Beware of vote by mail.

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, like Nessel a Democrat, in August called the robocalling effort an unconscionable, indefensible, blatant attempt to lie to citizens about their right to vote.

She praised Nessel for a swift investigation Thursday, saying the charges show the state will use every tool at our disposal to dispel false rhetoric" and protect voting rights.

Investigators served search warrants in California, where Wohl lives in Los Angeles, as part of the inquiry last week, Nessel said.

Wohl and Burkman have made a name for themselves by orchestrating political dirty tricks and hoaxes, including spreading false claims of sexual misconduct by Robert Mueller and Pete Buttigieg.

Just last month, the Washington Post said that it was duped into falsely reporting that FBI agents had conducted a raid at Burkmans home in Arlington, Virginia, when it was actually a staged event featuring actors.

In August, Wohl told The Associated Press that they suspected leftist pranksters were behind the robocalls because recipients were shown a caller ID that was Burkmans mobile number. Burkman called the situation a joke, saying nobody would use their mobile number for a robocall and threatening to sue Benson for defamation.

This isnt the first time the two have come under scrutiny in Michigan.

Last year, a Michigan college student said the duo recruited him to falsely claim he was raped by Democratic presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg and then published the smear without the student's permission.

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Associated Press writer David Eggert contributed to this story from Lansing, Michigan.
Consumer Reports has no financial relationship with advertisers on this site.

In March 2021, California announced new rules for companies subject to the California Consumer Privacy Act. They bar companies from using "dark patterns" on their websites that can confuse a consumer trying to opt out of the sale of their personal information. The rules also make it easier for people to ask a third party to help submit such requests. These are among a number of rules CR has urged the state (PDF) to adopt. This article was originally published on Oct. 1, 2020.

The CCPA is supposed to make it easy for California residents to opt out of having their data shared or sold by companies.

Often, however, companies dont have opt-out links on their home page, as the law requires.

In some cases, the companies ask people to provide additional, sensitive data before processing their request.

When Sharon Updike set out in June to ask a data broker to stop selling her personal data to other companies, she didnt expect a scavenger hunt.

But the companya small business called EVS7 thats based in Texas and sells peoples phone numbers to advertisersdidnt have an opt-out link on its home page, as required by a landmark California law that governs companies that trade in state residents personal information.

Instead, to opt out you were supposed to dive into the companys privacy policy, then find a link to a separate page just for California residents. There, among the paragraphs of legalese, consumers were instructed to contact the company by phone or a sales email address.

Updike, who lives near Los Angeles, is one of 500-plus California volunteers in a monthslong Consumer Reports study (PDF) of how the California Consumer Privacy Act is shaping up. The law, which went into effect on Jan. 1, 2020, is considered the strongest set of data privacy protections in the country, and could become a model for federal or other state legislation.

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Updike couldnt find the buried opt-out page, so she sent a message via the companys contact form asking it to stop selling her information. The companys president, Richard Hardgrave, responded two days later. To verify which Sharon Updike that you are, we now need you to send us an AFFIDAVIT [sic] that has been signed by you and notarized, he wrote.

Updike was aghast. Cant I simply give you my address? she responded by email. Surely you can discern which Sharon Updike I am if I give you my address. Hardgrave agreed to remove Updikes information without further documentation. The company never confirmed to her that it had done so, but Hardgrave later told Consumer Reports that EVS7 did quickly delete Updikes personal data, as hed promised.

Updike thanked Hardgrave for being a reasonable person. But still, the drawn-out exchange didnt exactly feel like flexing a simple legal right. It was extremely difficult, the retired credit union CEO later told CR.

Opt-Out Process Slow, Sometimes Broken

Updikes experience wasnt unusual. When study participants tried to exercise their right to opt out of the sale of their personal data, they found enormous variation in how companies handled the requests. The 214 companies that participants contacted were all data brokers registered with the state of California.

With some companies, opting out was a walk in the park: Study participants clicked on prominent links on company home pages that read Do not sell my data, filled out a short form, and were quickly emailed a confirmation that the company would make good on the request. Or they just toggled a switch and the deed was done.

But for most, the process was slow, confusing, frustratingor downright impossible to navigate.

Consumers Are Left Hanging

62 %

. . . of the time, study participants either didnt know whether their opt-out request was successful, or say they werent able to make the request at all. And only in 18 percent of requests did participants report receiving a confirmation from the broker that their data would not be sold in the future.



Some study participants encountered complex processes that took a long time to untangle. Others were asked to accept website cookies or download a special app to submit their request. And 24 of the 214 companies CR studied didnt have the legally required opt-out link on their home page at all.

"We were blown away by how complicated some of the opt-out processes were, especially since consumers have to submit opt-out requests to every company that collects data about them to fully protect their privacy, says CR policy analyst Maureen Mahoney, who directed the study.

Companies should make it easier, not harder, for consumers to exercise their rights, she says. And policymakers need to put in place commonsense reforms to rein in data collection, use, and sharing by defaultnot leave it up to the consumer to ask hundreds of different companies to stop selling their data.

A six-month grace period for companies ended in July, allowing California Attorney General Xavier Becerra to begin going after CCPA scofflaws. The attorney generals office tells CR that it has sent out warning letters in the double digits to noncompliant companies in different industries. No CCPA-related investigation or lawsuit has yet been made public. The attorney generals office declined to comment on whether warning letters had been sent to any of the companies where we found problems.

This November, Californians will vote on a new ballot initiative that would update the privacy law. Mahoney says the initiative would close some of the loopholes that the CR study identified but would also introduce ambiguities that could allow some companies to avoid offering consumers their privacy rights.

Hardgrave, the EVS7 president, says the CCPA is overly complex and difficult to comply with. We thought we did everything right, he says. According to Hardgrave, his company has received only about a dozen opt-out requests so far. We will make it easier right away, he says. (The company has now added a link to the home page.)

To Protect Your Data, Give Us More Data

Perhaps the most common hurdle the participants encountered was that companies asked them to provide sensitive personal information before processing an opt-out request. To get them to stop selling their data, participants had to supply far more of it. Beyond phone numbers, email addresses, and home addresses, some companies asked for government ID numbers or photos of the ID card, detailed identity verification questions from credit reports, and even selfies.

Many of CRs study participants decided not to go through with an opt-out request because they didnt want to provide this sensitive data.

They wanted more information than they already had, says Karen McCall, a former schoolteacher who lives in Vacaville. She ditched an opt-out request when the company asked her to take a selfie holding her drivers license.

Dua retiree who lives in San Jose and asked us to use only his first name to preserve his privacysaid that TransUnion, a major data broker, asked him to enter his birth date, his mothers maiden name, and his Social Security number in order to submit his opt-out request.

There was no way I was going to give that information away just to protect my data, he tells CR. If its going to be that burdensomeespecially if you have to provide sensitive infothen whos going to bother to do it?

CRs Mahoney says that these types of requests are inappropriate. The CCPA tells companies to verify consumers requests to access or delete their databut it doesnt say anything about verifying opt-out requests, according to Mahoney. Companies should weed out clearly fraudulent requests, but asking for a government ID is not necessary and is freaking people out, she says.

Obstacles Remain

14 %

. . . of the time, study participants either gave up on their opt-out request because of the hurdles they faced, or couldnt figure out how to make a request at all.

Mahoney says that California residents are facing other hurdles, as well. When she made her own opt-out request to X-Mode, a location data broker, Mahoney received an emailed invitation to sign up for the companys newsletter. The law tells companies not to use data gathered from these requests for marketing or any other purpose, she says, because consumers may be less likely to exercise their rights if they think it could result in unwanted emails.

X-Mode says its investigating Mahoneys experience. To ensure the clarity of our opt-out options for consumers, we have paused any outbound newsletter emails until we complete our internal review, a spokesperson said. The company also pledged to provide more streamlined and comprehensive opt-out options.

CR study participants who submitted opt-out requests were often left hanging. Companies stated clearly that they would stop sharing consumer data in response to just 18 percent of the requests. In almost half the cases, participants were left without any clear indication of whether or not their request had been acted onand 14 percent of the time, the volunteers gave up or werent able to see the request through.

Several of the California volunteers CR spoke with said that they were encouraged by the new rights afforded by the data privacy law and that they were eager to make the most of them to protect their privacy.

But many said the system seemed broken because of the obstacles many companies have erected.

The process is just very onerous, and it puts a lot of the effort and the heavy lifting on the consumer, says Yadi Younse, a political consultant who lives in Pasadena. I dont think it should have taken as long as it did, or required a consumer to jump through so many hoops, to get this done.
Emily Jolley (left) and son Terran Butler (right) ((Unified Police Department of Greater Salt Lake))

A mother who has shared QAnon posts on Facebook and claimed that child protective service agencies are involved in child sex trafficking is wanted by police for allegedly kidnapping her six-year-old son.

Emily Jolley, from Millcreek, Utah, has been accused of kidnapping her son Terran Butler after a court supervised visit on Saturday, 26 September.

On Sunday, the Unified Police Department of Greater Salt Lake issued a press release asking the public for help in finding the 43-year-old and her six-year-old son.

In a statement, the department said that when Terrans father, Timothy Butler, attempted to pick him up from the visit, he realised that Ms Jolley had left with the six-year-old without his consent.

The visit supervisor told Mr Butler that Terran was picked up from the visit by US Marshals, who told her that a warrant was out for his arrest.

She also claimed that Ms Jolley gave her mother, Larain Latter Jolley, documents that said Terran could stay with her as his father was going to prison.

The authorities confirmed to Fox 13 News that there is no warrant out for Mr Butlers arrest and that no genuine US Marshals visited Ms Jolley during the visit.

On Sunday, an amber alert was issued in relation to the incident, which is sent out when a child has been abducted and investigators believe they are in imminent danger.

Ms Jolleys mother was arrested on Saturday and subsequently charged with obstruction of justice, for allegedly refusing to tell the police the location of her daughter and grandson. She later told investigators that Terran was safe, but refused to say where he was, according to the Daily Mail.

Ms Jolleys Facebook page showed that the 43-year-old has posted about the QAnon movement and shared numerous conspiracy theories, including ones that claim the coronavirus pandemic is a hoax, according to Heavy.

The QAnon movement, whose followers claim a deep state is plotting against president Donald Trump, has been identified by the FBI as an extremist group.

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The movement also claims that a group, which includes top Democratic officials, of Satan-worshipping paedophiles is running a global child sex trafficking ring.

Ms Jolley also claimed that child protective service agencies are involved in child sex trafficking, and wrote in several Facebook posts that her son was legally kidnapped by the agency and the courts, according to Fox 13.

Ms Jolley has been involved in a court battle over custody with Mr Butler for several years, and has accused him of being involved in abuse and child sex trafficking.

In a Facebook post, Mr Butlers girlfriend, Amelia Jensen Meneses, accused the 43-year-old of plotting the kidnapping for months, even years, according to the Mail.

The authorities have asked the public for help in finding Ms Jolley and Terran, and they confirmed that she is driving a blue 2008 Toyota Prius that has a Utah license plate with the number E847GT.

Read more

QAnon: Facebook bans adverts pushing far-right conspiracy theory

QAnon-linked Senate candidate under fire for vile and racist attacks on RBG
The coronavirus pandemic and related lockdown may well be among the Pakistani publishing industrys toughest setbacks yet.

In August this year, AFP reported that Pakistans Punjab province  the countrys most populous  had approved a bill requiring publishers to seek government approval before printing or importing books, pamphlets and other written works. If implemented, the Bill could gut the publishing industry in regional capital Lahore and divide Pakistans literary world, leaving books available in one part of the country but banned in another, the report noted.

The contentious bill, which many in the publishing industry in Pakistan see as adding to an already censorious environment, comes at a time when the books business in the country is reeling under the effects of the COVID-19 crisis.

The lockdowns in which schools and bookshops remained closed has caused an enormous loss to publishers from which they will not recover easily or quickly. Textbook publishers have missed out on the Pakistan peak-selling season of March and April when schools and bookshops were closed, says Ameena Saiyid, one of the key figures in scripting the story of publishing in modern Pakistan. Saiyid, who has led Oxford University Press arm in the country, has also helmed the popular Karachi Literature Festival. I think we will not return to the days before COVID and the change could be considered permanent... However, I feel we will return to smaller events with SOPs so things will be different in future, she says.

The Pakistan Publishers and Booksellers Association is closely monitoring the coronavirus situation over October-November to take a call on whether or not its annually organised Karachi International Book Fair (KIBF) can be held this year. While the Karachi Expo Center, the venue for the fair, has been booked by the association from 5-9 December, the chairman Khalid Aziz told the press that the event would be cancelled if the situation isnt favourable.

Saiyid observes that online forums are at best a poor substitute for literary festivals as we know them. An online litfest can never replace the buzz and excitement of the real thing. I will never forget the hushed silence followed by the faint sound of excited breathing when Vikram Seth entered the hall to speak at one of my literature festivals, she says.

Even as publishing houses and bodies consider their alternatives in a post-pandemic world, for bookstores, its a choice between bad and worse. I think whether it is publishing or any other business, once your cash flows are affected, it becomes extremely difficult to sustain anything. Also what we've seen a big increase in pirated booksellers and this continues to impact the industry and eat into our margins, says Sameer Saleem of Liberty Books, one of Pakistans oldest and biggest bookstore chains. Liberty, which opened in 1952, had rapidly expanded to cover major cities of the country.

While the lockdown hit retailers hard, Saleem believes the governments nimbleness and understanding of essentials has saved most from being wiped out. What will eventually sustain bookstores through this crisis, however, is their relationship with the customer, he adds. With the expansion of our physical store network in the last decade, it is not easy to maintain inventory according to customer feedback as each of our bookshops contains a minimum of 5,000 titles. But we are using technology to help us understand our readers more deeply, Saleem says of how Liberty puts this philosophy into practice. Hopefully this strategy will pay off. Understanding your customers is pandemic-proof and pays off in the long-term.

Just as bookstores in India have turned to home deliveries in the time of the lockdown, Saleem says those in Pakistan too are figuring out new ways of selling. If we expect to import and publish books and for them to sit on the shelf and sell on their own, it would be extremely naive, he says, bluntly. Newer and more creative ways of reaching customers must be sought. Bookselling has always resolved to conventional selling and this is the time to raise the bar and test new ideas.

Read on Firstpost  Two bookstores and a lockdown: Delhi's Midland and Mumbai's Kitab Khana on weathering the coronavirus crisis

The history of publishing in Pakistan can perhaps be viewed as two distinct timelines. Pre-Partition Lahore was the publishing centre of undivided India. Post-Partition, the departure of the major Hindi publishing houses created a gap that took time to fill. This ruptured beginning, and the effects of living under an imposing military regime aside, the pandemic and related lockdown may well be among the publishing industrys toughest setbacks yet. Its effects have been felt by Ameena Saiyids publishing venture Lightstone, which was to be launched this year. Everything was in place, including a catalogue. The only decisions we took were to lie low and not invest in any growth plans, such as more staff or projects. We decided to hold all our plans and minimise expenses on travel, promotional events, she says.

The impact of the crisis hasn't bypassed Pakistani writers. Before 2019, authors from across the border were regularly commissioned and published by Indian publishing houses. Political estrangement and growing bilateral tensions led to a trade ban last year. This has severely curtailed access to writers and their books, on both sides of the border.

Saiyid observes that while a large number of Pakistani writers, mainly [of] fiction, were published in India as there was no world class publisher of novels in Pakistan then, their base market and readership remained in Pakistan, and their books used to be exported to Pakistan. Now, since that can no longer be done, I wonder if Pakistanis will still go to Indian publishers or whether Indian publishers would still be interested in publishing Pakistani fiction, she asks. I have seen instances of Indian publishers passing reprint rights to publishers here, albeit reluctantly, which was not the case when trade was intact.

Libertys Sameer Saleem is trying to create some positive opportunities even amid the crisis. Liberty, which also runs a publishing branch, is now focused on promoting local voices. Although the trade ban with India has deprived readers of books by Indian and Pakistani authors, we see it as an opportunity to provide readers here with quality content at affordable prices and hope to someday be able to promote our authors from Pakistan in India as well, Saleem says.

For now, survival is key and the only way to a chart a return to better times. While Saleem is figuring out selling and distributing in a new world order, Saiyid is gradually building her list, which already includes the well-timed anthology Making Sense of Post-Covid-19 Politics.
(Natural News) The makers of the frontrunner COVID-19 vaccine, AstraZeneca and Oxford University, were quick to downplay the illness that caused their clinical trials in five countries to come to a screeching halt earlier in September. However, the condition at the heart of the move, transverse myelitis, is actually a fairly common vaccine injury.

The vaccine is being developed with $1.2 billion of American taxpayer dollars and $750 million from two global health organizations backed by Bill Gates. After a UK participant was given a second dose of the vaccine, she experienced the very serious adverse event. Transverse myelitis, or TM, is associated with muscle weakness, paralysis, pain and problems with the bladder and bowels. Two thirds of those who have it will remain permanently disabled.

AstraZeneca also disclosed  long after the fact  that the September break was actually the second time they had to stop their study. The first occasion took place in July, when a different participant experienced transverse myelitis after just one dose of the vaccine and ended up being newly diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.

Of course, AstraZeneca only admitted this happened after the information was leaked by STAT. And when they decided to resume the clinical trials just a few days after pausing them in September, the media and health officials tried to spin the pauses as being typical vaccine trial-related safety checks and evidence that they are being extra cautious. They also suggested that the two women developing the same condition could have been a coincidence.

The British Health Secretary said that the decision to restart the trial was good news for everyone, and that was certainly true for AstraZeneca, who saw their share price rebound nicely after an $11.3 billion market value drop in light of the second pause.

Myelitis is a common vaccine injury

Myelitis is an inflammatory disease process that affects the spinal cord, as Childrens Health Defense explains, and is a component of transverse myelitis as well as several other conditions that are considered forms of spinal cord damage not due to trauma. Conditions that involve this process are among the top vaccine injuries that Americans have filed claims over with the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, and most of these cases involve adults.

Most claimants in the past linked their transverse myelitis to vaccines against hepatitis B, but flu vaccines and tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis, or Tdap, vaccines are now the main suspects. The reports show that the symptoms of TM can arise several days or even several years after getting the vaccine.

With two cases already of a supposedly very rare illness out of such a small group of participants overall, it is not looking good for the vaccine. Of course, the fact that the vaccine is being compared in the study to a meningitis vaccine that is notorious for causing serious adverse reactions rather than an inert saline placebo will undoubtedly make this jab look better than it is.

Even the New York Times conceded that finding even one case among thousands of trial participants could be a red flag and that if other cases arose, it could sink the vaccine. One vaccine expert they quoted said: If a third case of neurological disease pops up in the vaccine group, then this vaccine may be done.

Lots of Americans are already quite skeptical of a rushed vaccine, even those who dont normally think twice about vaccines, and this news should give everyone who is still undecided serious pause.

Sources for this article include:

ChildrensHealthDefense.org

STATNews.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.
The cause of a Tuesday fire in Williamstown that severely damaged several homes and an office building is undetermined, Pennsylvania State Police said.

Trooper Megan Ammerman announced the fire marshals conclusion Thursday morning. Ammerman said the fire began in a bedroom but the ignition source cannot be determined.

The cause could not be determined because the area of origin was consumed in the blaze, according to Ammerman. She said it is still a pending investigation and information is limited.

Fire broke out around 2:20 a.m. Tuesday in a row of buildings on the first block of East Market Street. A witness told PennLive later that day that she saw the fire start in one building, then quickly spread to its neighbors.

Fire companies from Dauphin and Schuylkill counties rushed to the scene and fought the blaze for at least four hours.

The bodies of 18-year-old Logan A. Mitchell and a 17-year-old girl were later found in the debris. Ammerman said state police will not identify the girl since she is a minor.

Four adults and six children were also displaced because of the fire, according to the American Red Cross. The Red Cross said it provided them with food, clothing and temporary housing.

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With the passing of the Restoration of Order in Ireland Act in August 1920, there was a dramatic escalation of state violence by crown forces across Ireland in their fight against the IRA.



In Leitrim, the killings of both Patrick Gill at Drumsna, and seventy-year old James Connolly at Kinlough marked the beginning of a concerted campaign across Leitrim against republicans and the communities that supported them. Gill, an IRA Volunteer, and Connolly, the father of James Connolly (Junior), a member of the South Donegal Brigade of the IRA were killed in controversial circumstances by crown forces in September 1920.



This period marked a new phase in the War of Independence with the commencement of increased coercion by crown forces including frequent raids on homes across Leitrim. One of the first attacks on a community was on the night of 21 September 1920 when Auxiliary RIC units rampaged through Carrick-on-Shannon.



The attack on Carrick was a reprisal for the presence of armed IRA men patrolling the local fair on the previous day. In the raid, the Auxiliary unit who were based in Boyle arrived in the town with blackened faces and fired shots and threw grenades into a number of buildings. The Roscommom Herald reported that, a number of houses were entered by the raiders and young men taken out of their sleeping attire and marched some distance from their houses, had shots fired around them and were then forced to go down on their knees under threats of being instantly shot and forced to swear the police boycott in the town would be removed.



Boycott and intimidation campaigns against crown forces and officials were a central part of IRA strategy in Leitrim which proved a constant source of frustration for the authorities.

Joe McCormack, the Sinn Fein Chairman of Carrick District Council, was marched down the town and shots were fired around him. McCormack was forced to swear an oath that the boycott against crown forces in the town would be lifted. The Anglo Celt reported that, large numbers of families left the town for the country, fearing a repetition.

In Carrick, a delegation of local townspeople immediately met the RIC County and District Inspector to discuss the recent actions of crown forces in the town.



Despite the assurances of the police that there would not be a repeat of the coercion against local people, a heavy military and police presence continued in Carrick with ongoing searches of the general public.

The printing works of the Leitrim Observer, and the adjoining home of editor Patrick Dunne, were raided by police and military, and the Anglo Celt reported that, a picture of the Sacred Heart was taken from a bedroom and nailed to one of the doors.

Drumshanbo was the next town to be targeted by Auxiliaries on 22 September where shots were fired and grenades thrown into the home of District Councillor John McPartlin.



During the attack on the town, the home and business premises of Pat Conefrey, a local republican, was burned and a sum of money was stolen by the raiders. Fearing for their lives, the Conefrey family sought sanctuary in the nearby parochial house.

Attacks and provocation by crown forces continued across south Leitrim throughout September 1920 with a large police and military presence in the area.



On 24 September, according to the Roscommon Herald, Ballinamore was subjected to scenes of terrorism now common across many towns in Ireland.

It reported that, several groups of police invaded the town and at every point possible used every endeavour to goad the public into anger. The Leitrim Observer reported that crown forces fired shots into the Town Hall, and a young local man received a serious bayonet thrust and is now lying in a rather serious condition as a result.

With raids and searches becoming a common feature of daily life in the county, the September raids were only an indication of what was to come for the people of Leitrim as they faced into the autumn of winter of 1920.

Leitrim, The Irish Revolution 1912-1923 written by Dr Padraig McGarty was launched on 18 September 2020 by Professor Mary McAleese.



The book is available at local bookshops in Leitrim and nationwide. Signed copies of the book are available, with personal messages if desired, by emailing the author on pmcgarty1@gmail.com. The book is also available online at www.fourcourtspress.ie

Also read: New Local Link hub proposed for Drumshanbo
Seven years after leaving his village in northern India to find work in the bursting metropolis of Mumbai, Sundar Singh Jatav was struggling in a menial job at a video game shop. The $2.50 daily wage was hardly enough with his family back home deep in debt.

So in late 2015, when his boss introduced him to a man who promised to solve his financial problems, Jatav listened  and was shocked.

He suggested I sell my kidney, said Jatav, now 23.

What happened over the next several months would upend his life  and reveal a high-level kidney trafficking network inside one of the most reputed hospitals in Indias financial capital.

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At least 14 people, including four doctors and the hospitals chief executive, have been arrested since July when police, acting on information provided by Jatav, stopped a kidney transplant involving a 48-year-old patient who had presented forged documents purporting that the organ donor was his wife.

The ring is part of what one news outlet dubbed the Great Indian Kidney Racket.

Because the country harvests relatively few organs from people who die in accidents  the most common source of kidneys in the U.S.  the vast majority of transplants here involve living donors who give up one of their two kidneys.

To reduce the chances that money is changing hands, which is illegal in India and almost everywhere else, the law allows, with rare exceptions, only a spouse, child, parent, sibling, grandparent or grandchild to act as a donor.

Sundar Singh Jatav, 23, shows the scar from his kidney operation. (Parth M.N. / For The Times )

For patients who dont have a relative with a suitable kidney or dont want to put a loved one through the small risk that donation entails, there is another option: a shadowy marketplace in which well-off patients can buy organs from strangers. The sellers are often impoverished, recruited from small towns by middlemen and made to present falsified papers  sometimes in collusion with doctors.

This is part of our VIP culture, said Dr. Sanjay Nagral, a surgeon and publisher of the Indian Journal of Medical Ethics. It comes from our larger understanding and our acceptance that if you have money in India, you can buy so many things, so what is so different about buying organs?

No one knows how many of the roughly 8,000 kidney transplants performed in India last year were illegal, but organ scams periodically surface. A month before the Mumbai arrests, a leading hospital in New Delhi was found to have performed at least three kidney transplants based on sham documents.

The case that Jatav exposed involved L.H. Hiranandani Hospital, a private facility in Powai, a prosperous suburb of wide boulevards and expansive apartments. Authorities are investigating at least four transplants at the hospital and have ordered it to temporarily stop carrying out the surgeries.

Obviously, this case is just an indicator of whats going on beneath the surface, Nagral said. We dont know the extent of it, but its very difficult for these kidney sales to be completely stopped.

The trade exists in part because of the large pool of Indians desperate enough to give up a vital organ. Just as surrogacy grew into a booming industry over the last decade, with thousands of childless Indian and foreign couples hiring Indian women to carry their babies, laborers surviving on a few dollars a day are ripe targets for agents who offer thousands for a kidney.

They basically use the poor man as a sacrificial lamb to prolong the life of the rich. Suresh Gupta, activist with the Indian National Congress party

Jatav, the youngest of four siblings from Uttar Pradesh, is a prime example.

Slender and shy, with barely a fourth-grade education, Jatav had been forced to become the breadwinner: His parents were weakened from old age, his sister had died from an illness, and his two brothers were unable to work because of mental disabilities.

The family was more than $10,000 in debt, and Jatav was the only hope.

In an interview in a cramped Mumbai cafe, he described his role. At first, he declined to sell a kidney. But then the agent, Iqbal Siddiqui, put him in touch with a friendly, sweet-talking man who called himself Sandeep.

Sandeep arranged for him to visit Hiranandani, a sprawling medical complex overlooking a lake. There, the small-town young man sat in a room with three doctors who told him that donating a kidney was no different than giving blood, he recalled.

I trusted them, Jatav said. I thought they were good people wanting to help me with my financial condition.

Sandeep did not offer Jatav a specific price for his kidney, saying only that it would be enough to pay off his familys debt and promising to help him get a better job. To sweeten the deal, Sandeep moved Jatav, who had been sleeping on a mattress in a corner of the video game store, into a small apartment rent-free.

Jatav never saw the donor forms that were submitted on his behalf, which claimed he and the recipient  later revealed to be a 30-year-old woman from New Delhi  were siblings from suburban Mumbai. He was admitted to the hospital March 15 after undergoing blood tests.

Two days later, his kidney was removed. Within a week, he was discharged.

But he had not been paid, and Sandeep was dodging his calls. When they finally spoke, Sandeep was evasive about the money but offered to bring Jatav on as a sort of assistant, tasking him with carrying bags and files.

Jatav can barely read English. But he observed Sandeep meeting with other donors and realized that their documents also were being forged to show a blood relationship with a kidney patient.

Through a friend, Jatav contacted Suresh Gupta, an activist with the Indian National Congress political party, and slipped him two pages of a transplant application. On July 12, two days before Brijkishore Jaiswal, a 48-year-old sari merchant, was to undergo surgery, Jatav called Gupta, who tipped off police.

Jaiswal and the seller, a 42-year-old housekeeper, were arrested just before the operation was to start.

The three doctors who allegedly persuaded Jatav to give up a kidney were arrested and freed on bail. A preliminary inquiry conducted by state health officials and leaked to Indian news media suggests they were complicit in the scam, although a lawyer for the doctors called the allegations nonsense.

Police also arrested the hospitals transplant coordinator, who allegedly arranged phony documents, as well as Siddiqui and Sandeep, whose real name is Bhijendra Bisen.

Bisen, 42, is one of Mumbais most notorious organ traffickers. He was jailed a decade ago for a similar scam and has confessed to involvement in more than 30 kidney transplants over the last four years, the Hindustan Times newspaper reported.

Jaiswal had paid him more than $30,000 for the transplant, his lawyer, Shabnam Khadri, said in an interview. The hospital said it received $7,000. The seller was promised about $3,000. When police raided the transplant coordinators home, they reportedly found $12,000 in cash. It was unclear how the rest was to be distributed.

Gupta, the activist, said agents like Bisen exploit ignorance and vulnerability.

They basically use the poor man as a sacrificial lamb to prolong the life of the rich, he said.

India was once a top destination for transplant tourists  patients from the United States and other wealthy countries who traveled here to receive kidneys because of shortages in their countries. Facing criticism that the system exploited the poor and that the procedures were secretive and often unsafe, India passed a law in 1994 that banned organ sales and allowed only close relatives to serve as donors.

Researchers believe that 220,000 Indians need kidneys, but the nonprofit Indian Transplant Registry estimates that only 8,000 people got one last year.

One reason is that most transplants are performed in private hospitals at a cost of $10,000 or more, and few people have health insurance or the money to pay for it.

Those who can afford a transplant face another obstacle: The lack of a national system to collect organs from cadavers  such as the more than 100,000 Indians who die each year in car accidents  means that kidneys are in short supply.

Only about 15% of Indias transplanted kidneys come from deceased donors, although that figure has been rising steadily. Some eligible living donors are simply afraid to part with an organ, even for a relative, doctors say.

That has helped give rise to the black market for living donors posing as relatives.

Its a supply-and-demand problem, said Sunil Shroff, a urologist who runs the transplant registry. Families are sometimes pushed against the wall when theyre not able to find a solution. In desperation, they can do all kinds of stupid things.

It is unclear why Jatav was never paid. Had he been, it is likely the kidney ring would have remained hidden.

After going public, he said, he received threatening phone calls that prompted him to take his wife back to his village for her safety. Although he agreed to have his story told in an American newspaper, he has not revealed his role in the case to her or other family members.

He remains in Mumbai, where he has asked for police protection and is looking for a job, having quit the video store before the operation. A friend is paying his rent.

He lifted up his white button-down shirt to reveal a foot-long scar across the right side of his torso. His appetite has diminished, he has bouts of dizziness, and he cannot walk for more than a few minutes without fatigue  symptoms he blames on the kidney procedure, even though such complications are rare. He does not have money to see a doctor.

I was the only son who my parents thought could make some money for them, he said. With my health, what options do I have now?

But he is not the only one in this story to suffer.

Before his transplant was foiled, Jaiswal had been surviving on twice-weekly dialysis treatments and was usually nauseated and weak. He turned to the black market for a kidney, his lawyer said, because no one in his family was willing to donate.

After his arrest, he was granted bail because of his declining health and returned home to the neighboring state of Gujarat. He continued to get sicker and on Aug. 31, six weeks after Jatav blew the whistle, died of kidney failure.

Family members took his body to be cremated along the Ganges River in Varanasi, the holiest city in Hinduism, where all ones sins are believed to be absolved upon death.

Parth M.N. is a special correspondent.

shashank.bengali@latimes.com

Follow @SBengali on Twitter for more news from South Asia

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Judge bars school district from deceiving parents about student's gender transition

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A court in Wisconsin has ruled that the Madison Metropolitan School District cannot deceive parents about their child's chosen gender identity at school.

Dane County Court Judge Frank Remington issued a temporary injunction on Monday that impacts certain parts of the school districts gender identity guidance on how school officials engage parents about a students gender transition.

The order comes after the Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty (WILL), along with the Alliance Defending Freedom filed a lawsuit in February on behalf of a group of anonymous parents.

The parents challenged the school district guidance adopted in April 2018 that advises employees to assist students in their gender transition at school without notifying their parents.

WILL argues that the districts guidance tells employees to deceive parents about the gender identity their son or daughter is identifying as at school and encourages teachers to have students' permission to notify or speak with parents about issues relating to their gender identity.

The lawyers for the plaintiffs argue that the Guidance & Policies to Support Transgender, Non-binary & Gender-Expansive Students document violates parental and religious freedom rights enshrined in the state constitution.

Remington partially granted the plaintiffs motion for an injunction.

The school district is enjoined pending the plaintiffs appeal from enforcing any policy, guideline or practice that allows or requires District staff to conceal information or to answer untruthfully in response to any question that parents ask about their child at school, including information about the name and pronouns being used to address their child at school.

This injunction does not create an affirmative obligation to disclose information if that obligation does not already exist at law and shall not require or allow District staff to disclose any information that they are otherwise prohibited from disclosing to parents by any state or federal law or regulation, Remington wrote.

WILL Deputy Counsel Luke Berg said in a statement that the order is an important win for parental rights as the court considers this matter.

We are pleased Judge Remington issued this injunction that will require honesty when Madison Metropolitan School District staff interact with parents about critical matters impacting their childs health and wellbeing, he said.

According to The Wisconsin State Journal, the April 2018 guidance is not formally adopted school board policy but is an administrative guidance.

School district spokesperson Tim LeMonds disputed the conservative groups' claim that school officials are instructed to deceive or conceal information from parents. In a statement given to local media outlets, LeMonds said that what is in question with the guidance is not an official policy.

MMSD prioritizes working in collaboration with families to support our students and it is always our preferred method of support," LeMonds said. "MMSD will continue to prioritize the safety and wellbeing of every individual student to the best of our ability.

Arguments over the motion for temporary injunction were held last week amid the organizations appeal of an earlier denial to a request for the plaintiffs to proceed anonymously in the case.

The request for the plaintiffs to proceed anonymously without disclosure to the school districts attorneys was again denied by Remmington, who initially denied the request in May.

Furthermore, the inescapable effect of being anonymous, the court additionally finds that the Plaintiffs have not adequately demonstrated irreparable harm to them, the order states.

The Plaintiffs demand preliminary relief that would otherwise convert the case to a de facto class action, rather than a plea for relief by particular, albeit anonymous, parents. By not identifying themselves, Plaintiffs have not provided facts sufficient for this court to find irreparable harm or to find that they do not have an adequate remedy as to themselves.

WILL also argued in the lawsuit that the school district cant enable a gender identity transition at school without parental notice. However, Remington declined to issue an injunction based on that argument at this stage of the litigation.

It also argues that the judges ruling sends a clear warning message to the District that its policy is problematic.

WILL initially reached out to the school district with a demand letter sent in December 2019.

The group stressed that the guidance essentially allows children of any age to transition to a different gender at school without parental notice or consent. The legal groups contend that employees were also instructed to deceive parents by using the childs legal name and pronouns when talking with parents while using the preferred names and pronouns of the students in the classroom.

A long line of cases from both the United States Supreme Court and the Wisconsin Supreme Court establishes that parents have a constitutional right under the due process clauses of the state and federal constitutions to direct the upbringing and education of [their] children, The demand letter written by Burg argues.

WILL initially represented 14 parents and the number has since dropped to six. Considering that Remington has denied the plaintiffs' request to proceed anonymously, that request has been appealed to the Wisconsin Court of Appeals, an intermediate appellate court.

Berg told the State Journal that the parents who have dropped out of the lawsuit have either moved out of the school district or pulled their children from its schools.
Diana Cristea, 18, and Joel Osei, 25, both deny drugging and burgling a man

Victim 'accepted a glass of orange juice from Osei' while on a Grindr date

He then began feeling 'fuzzy' before collapsing in his Walthamstow, London flat

Man was taken to hospital, and later reported that 2,000 of items were missing

Osei and Cristea are also accused of killing Adrian Murphy in his Battersea flat

A man allegedly poisoned with a drug known as 'devil's breath' by a Grindr date was found virtually naked, 'agitated' and 'talking gibberish', paramedics told court.

The victim, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, was said to have accepted a glass of orange juice from his alleged assailant 'Remy' while on a date.

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The 40-year-old man then began feeling 'fuzzy' and collapsed at his flat in Walthamstow, east London, on May 30 of last year.

Croydon Crown Court heard how the victim initially invited Remy, later idenfieid as defendant Joel Osei, 25, over for sex after making contact on gay dating app Grindr.

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Colombian 'Devil's Breath' date rape drug Scopolamine, also known as hyoscine or 'Devil's Breath', is made from Borrachero trees in Colombia, and used throughout the country to aid sexual predators and robbers. The odourless powder is blown into people's faces, which once inhaled can cause victims to lose their memory, free will, and in high enough doses, can even kill. It has been described as 'the most dangerous drug in the world'. In the past two years cases have been reported in Spain, France and the US. But last month, UK actor Robert Lindsay told Met Police a young woman he knew was attacked with a substance bearing a chilling resemblance to 'Devil's Breath' outside a London night club. The drug, also referred to as Burundanga in its native Colombia, is almost impossible to detect, as it disappears from the blood stream in two to six hours and can only be found in urine samples within 12. This makes it extremely difficult for victims to prove they have been given it  as they don't remember anything and it's untraceable in their system.

But they ended up playing computer games and taking drugs before Osei laced the man's drink with scopolamine, known in Colombia as 'devil's breath', jurors were told.

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The man was taken to hospital and discharged the next day. He later reported that items including his wallet, bank cards and two laptops worth about 2,000 had been stolen from his flat.

Osei and a second defendant, Diana Cristea, 18, are accused of stealing the victim's belongings.

They are also accused of murdering Adrian Murphy at his 17th-storey flat in Battersea, south London before allegedly using his name to try and buy more than $80,000 (62,000) worth of diamonds from a jeweller in New York.

In a witness statement, paramedic Christopher Paterson described arriving at the alleged victim's flat shortly after 9pm after a neighbour and friend raised the alarm.

Mr Paterson said: 'He was lying on his back and was dressed only in underpants.

'He was sweating, agitated and confused. Around the lounge area was evidence of drug-taking.

'He had a faster than normal heart rate, elevated blood pressure and a temperature.'

His ambulance colleague, Wilfred Payne, added: 'He was talking gibberish, he was not making any sense.'

Osei and Cristea are accused of killing dancer Mr Murphy between May 31 and June 5 last year after his body was found in the Battersea flat.

The pair then allegedly used his details to unsuccessfully buy 62,000 worth of diamonds from a jeweller in New York, the court heard previously.

Osei and Cristea allegedly murdered Mr Murphy (pictured) before using his name to try and buy more than 62,000 worth of diamonds from a jeweller in New York, the court heard

The trial at Croydon Crown Court heard how a victim was allegedly poisoned by a man posing as a 'Grindr date' who used a glass of juice laced with a date-rape drug known as 'devil's breath'

Prosecutor Crispin Aylett QC said the drug scopolamine, which is known as 'devil's breath' in Colombia and said to be 'popular with robbers and rapists' to incapacitate their victims, was used in both incidents.

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Cristea, of Barnet, north London, has admitted one count of fraud, but denies the other charges  murder, administering a poison, two counts of theft and seven other fraud charges.

Osei, who was previously living in Seven Sisters but is now of no fixed address, denies murder, administering a poison, two counts of theft and eight counts of fraud.

The trial continues.
Google Earth

H-E-B is replacing one of its existing stores in New Braunfels with a new supermarket.

The San Antonio company plans to construct a 122,222-square-foot store at 651 S. Walnut Ave., according to a filing with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
'Very Stable Genius' Trump Swipes at Biden's Intelligence: 'You Graduated ... One of the Lowest in Your Class'

Donald Trump and Joe Biden Go Head-to-Head in First Presidential Debate

Tuesday night's debate was the first of three scheduled between Biden and Trump

Amid the back-and-forths, interruptions and mud-slinging in a highly contentious debate, President Donald Trump  dismissed by Biden as a "clown"  went about as personal and petty as he could on Tuesday night. He attacked Joe Biden over his intelligence, saying, You graduated ... one of the lowest in your class," and "there's nothing smart about you."

The exchange came as the former vice president and current Democratic presidential nominee brought up Trump's response to the novel coronavirus pandemic, saying, "Guess what? A lot of people died. And a lot more are gonna die unless he gets a lot smarter, a lot quicker."

"Did you use the word 'smart'?" Trump replied, in one of dozens of examples from Tuesday of him interjecting and trying to belittle his rival. "So, you said you went to Delaware State but you forgot the name of your college. You didn't go to Delaware State. You graduated either the lowest or almost the lowest in your class."

Trump's "Delaware State" comment came in reference to right-wing claims that Biden has wrongly said he attended Delaware State. As the fact-checking organization Politifact has noted, however, Biden once said he got his start at the school, having announced his 1972 run for Senate on its campus, but he did not claim to attend college at Delaware State.

JIM WATSON/Getty Images President Donald Trump (left) and former Vice President Joe Biden at Tuesday's debate

Don't ever use the word 'smart' with me, Trump at Tuesday's debate. Don't ever use that word. Because you know what? Theres nothing smart about you, Joe. Forty-seven years, you've done nothing.

Let's have this debate and we'll see who's smart," Biden retorted.

Story continues

Trump, whose own niece accused of cheating on his SATs by paying someone else to take the exam for him, often attacks his political foes on matters concerning intellect.

In the past, the president has called Biden and others with whom he doesn't agree low IQ individuals.

Trump has also bragged repeatedly about his own intelligence, saying his IQ is one of the highest" in a 2013 tweet directed at "haters and losers" and calling himself "a very stable genius" on multiple occasions.

My two greatest assets have been mental stability and being, like, really smart," he tweeted in 2018.
Reporter

Ben Zigterman is a reporter covering business at The News-Gazette. His email is bzigterman@news-gazette.com, and you can follow him on Twitter (@bzigterman).
- The National Drugs Authority wrote to pharmaceutical importers to ensure the drug is used for emergency

- The wonder drug will be supplied and administered to patients in designated hospitals across the country

- The East African nation had recorded 75 COVID-19 deaths from 8,287 confirmed positive cases by October 1

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Ugandan government has confirmed it will import remdesivir drug which is believed could manage coronavirus.

The National Drugs Authority (NDA) boss David Nahamya said the agency had written to the pharmaceutical importers to ensure the drug is used for emergency in select hospitals.

Uganda health officials confirmed the country has so far recorded 75 COVID-19 deaths. Photo: Ministry of Health.

Source: Facebook

There is growing clinical and scientific evidence indicating that remdesivir injection shows potential for positive clinical outcomes in the management of COVID-19.

As a result, the drug has received emergency use authorisation for the management of Covid-19 from a number of drug regulatory authorities worldwide, he directed in a letter seen by Daily Monitor.

As on Thursday, October 1, the East African nation had recorded 75 COVID-19 deaths from 8,287 confirmed positive cases.

In June, the California-based drug maker Gilead Sciences said each vial of remdesivir could cost KSh 41,523 for the United States government.

In a report by CNN, the company's CEO Daniel O'Day announced on Monday, June 29, that patients will require six vials for a complete dosage of five days.

Already, the US government had secured nearly all of the companys supply of the drug for use in its hospitals through September, with a contract for 500,000 treatment courses, which it will make available to hospitals at Gileads price.

The novel coronavirus. Photo: CDC Africa.

Source: UGC

Other developed countries will pay 25% less than the United States, a discount Gilead said reflects a need to make the drug as widely available as possible throughout the world.

The company has also licensed generic manufacturers to produce the drug for developing countries which will receive the treatment at a substantially lower cost.

According to data from a new study cited by the United States government, the drug - remdesivir, was found to shorten the recovery time for COVID-19 patients.

The study revealed remdesivir interfered with the replication of some viruses, including the SARS-CoV-2 virus responsible for the current pandemic.

The data shows that remdesivir has a clear-cut significant positive effect in diminishing the time to recovery, Dr Anthony Fauci, the US' top infectious-disease expert said during a White House press conference on Wednesday, April 29.

Treatment of ebola and marburg

Gilead created and developed the drug as a treatment for ebola virus disease and marburg virus infections.

And it was discovered it had antiviral activity in vitro against multiple virus including filoviruses, pneumoviruses, paramyxoviruses and coronaviruses.

Remdesivir was rapidly pushed through clinical trials due to ebola virus epidemic of 20132016, eventually being used in people with the disease.

It was used in the emergency setting during the Kivu, DRC ebola epidemic.

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(Newser)  Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who is recovering in Germany after being poisoned in Russia by a nerve agent, accused Vladimir Putin of being behind the attack in comments released Thursday. Navalny's supporters have frequently maintained that such an attack could have only been ordered at the top levels, though the Kremlin has steadfastly denied any involvement in it, the AP reports. Navalny, a politician and corruption investigator who is Putins fiercest critic, was flown to Germany two days after falling ill on Aug. 20 on a domestic flight in Russia. He spent 32 days in the hospital, 24 of them in intensive care, before doctors deemed his condition had improved sufficiently for him to be discharged.

story continues below

After Navalny was transported to Berlin for treatment, German chemical weapons experts determined that he was poisoned with the Soviet-era nerve agent Novichok. In his first interview since the attack, Navalny told Der Spiegel that in his mind, Putin was behind the attack." "I don't have any other versions of how the crime was committed," he said. Spiegel said Navalny was joking and alert in the interview with them, though his hands shook so much it was difficult for him to drink from a bottle of water. He also reiterated what his team has previously saidthat he plans on returning to Russia when he is able. My job now is to remain the guy who isn't scared, he said. And I'm not scared.

(Read more Alexei Navalny stories.)
If you dont find your school immediately, dont be alarmed, Box said. We are working with remaining schools to help address technical issues to ensure that they are able to report their data. We expect more schools to be included in the dashboard in the coming weeks as we work through this process.
(Newser)  An American woman who worked for the US embassy in Ukraine was killed while jogging in the capital city of Kyiv Wednesday. Sources tell the Guardian the woman had a non-diplomatic job and was married to a US foreign service officer. She was found unconscious with a head injury near railway tracks that run through Nyvky Park, near the mission, and died at a nearby hospital, NBC News reports. A forensic examination will determine her cause of death, but authorities are searching for a tall, dark-haired man in his 30s who was wearing black shorts, a T-shirt, and blue running shoes. (Read more Ukraine stories.)
Businessman Sean Quinn said this week it was "hard to believe" that executives in his former management team at Quinn Group would change the name of the company to Mannok.

The name of the company, which will change from Quinn Industrial Holdings, probably doesn't matter that much. After all the name of the group of companies changed to Aventas when receivers went in. Similarly, the glass bottle manufacturing, the radiator business, and others have also been sold with a change of name involved.

The new ownership mainly comprises three US hedge funds who stand to do very well out of their investment when they finally sell, as long as all of the fallout from Kevin Lunney's brutal abduction is dealt with.

Read More

There was a look of determination about the senior management team when they stood for promotional photographs of the new logo.

For Sean Quinn it is more the loss of the Quinn name and Q logo from the lorries and the head office that will have truly annoyed the man who founded the company.

Mr Quinn even queried the executives' right to make the change, despite the fact they are running a business that is privately owned and Sean Quinn is no longer a shareholder, a director, an employee, or a consultant.

At its peak, the Quinn empire spanned cement, building products, insurance, hotels, glass bottle manufacture, radiators, pubs, plastics and more. But it all started with cement and building products and that is the business Quinn would have most wanted to get back.

Mr Quinn's role in that former business may be simply history now, but his previous involvement in other aspects of the empire still casts a long shadow. The collapse of the insurance business into administration will result in well over 1bn in levy charges to all motor insurance customers in Ireland.

The 2.3bn owed to Anglo Irish Bank will see a multi-billion euro hit to the Irish taxpayer. Even the coronavirus crisis has played its part in adding to the costs for Irish taxpayers from the collapsed Quinn empire.

The receivers appointed by IBRC still have control over several former Quinn family property assets in Ireland, the UK, India, and Ukraine. Ten years on and tens of millions of euro lost establishing the liquidator's right to these assets will no doubt result in poorer returns when they are eventually sold.

Take three hotels formerly in the Quinn empire - The Slieve Russell Hotel in Cavan, Buswells in Dublin and the Hilton Hotel in Prague. The receiver could not sell them until the Quinn family and IBRC had reached a settlement around mutual litigation that had dragged on for years.

Eventually a settlement was reached in April 2019. This saw the family drop its claims to these hotel and other property assets, along with several pubs.

However, it took IBRC's special liquidators until November 2019 to notify the competition authorities of the new sole ownership of these assets following the court settlement. It then took the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission until February 2020 to give a green light to this new arrangement.

So finally, 12 years after the collapse of the Quinn empire, nine years after the special liquidators were appointed to IBRC, and 10 months after the court settlement, the path was finally clear to sell these assets.

But along came Covid-19.

The pandemic has hammered hotels and international tourism. IBRC is owed 230m on the 700-room Hilton Hotel in Prague, which is the largest hotel in the Czech Republic.

Back in 2018, the hotel was independently valued at 222m. In 2018 and 2019 the hotel sector in Prague was booming with deals. Hotel transactions tripled in 2019 with 539m worth of deals taking place in Prague alone.

Hotel occupancy in the Czech capital was at near-peak levels in 2019 according to a real estate report by Cushman & Wakefield. An opportunity may have been missed.

In Ireland, the Slieve Russell Hotel remains one of the few hotels to fall into receivership in the financial crash that has still not been sold. Buswells Hotel has benefited from the enormous lift in hotel trading that took place from about 2015 to early 2020.

The sale of these hotels was held back, initially by litigation.

But there was also a further 10 months after the settlement that was lost. The ultimate cost of this to the taxpayer will depend on how well the sector bounces back and when.

IBRC's special liquidation was due to wrap up in 2021 but that will have to be extended by another year because of the pandemic.

We saw the sensitivity and fallout from the sale of the cement and building materials group back in 2014.

Years of sabotage and intimidation and culminated in the brutal abduction of Mr Lunney.

The future sale of a large hotel in Prague, is unlikely to draw much attention in the local community around Ballyconnell. Neither would the sale of Buswells' Hotel in Dublin 2.

But the future ownership of the Slieve Russell Hotel could be contentious among some who still feel aggrieved about Sean Quinn's loss of his empire. Mr Quinn himself has condemned the attacks that have taken place.

Sadly, every piece of contention around the ownership of these assets reduces their value for taxpayers, drags down the potential of the businesses and has an impact on employment in the area.

The mighty Quinn name will disappear from the cement lorries. But having carried many jobs in the area for decades, it also carries a mighty cost for all of us.
Its another milestone for Jimmy Carter - the longest-living former U.S. president will celebrate his 96th birthday today.

According to a report by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the usual birthday party thrown annually by the town of Plains will not happen this year. The former president and his wife, Rosalynn, have sequestered themselves in their home in Plains, during the coronavirus pandemic, the report said.

A Carter spokesperson said the couple will spend a quiet day together, the report cited.

In the years prior to, during and following his presidency, Jimmy Carter had a profound impact on humanity.

My husband has been blessed with a long life and an amazing amount of energy, which he has dedicated over the last four decades to the work of The Carter Center  helping vulnerable and impoverished people, said Rosalynn Carter. Making this world a better place has been Jimmys vision for as long as I can remember, an Atlantic Journal-Constitution report quoted.

The report added that Rosalyn Carter is urging people to sign her husbands birthday wall.

To commemorate the former presidents 96th birthday, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution put together 96 ways to remember and celebrate the work of Jimmy Carter, Georgias favorite son. The list can be viewed here.

Readers who wish to sign Jimmy Carters birthday wall can do so here.

READ MORE:
Armenian News - NEWS.am presents a daily digest of Armenia-related top news as of 01.10.2020 amid the Azerbaijani aggression in Nagorno Karabakh:

3 SHELLS FALL

https://news.am/eng/news/605353.html

Three Azerbaijani shells fell in Parvizkhanlou village of Iran's Khoda Afarin County, and there is an injured, Anaj reports.

Earlier, Tehran had warned that none of the shells from the Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) conflict zone should end up in Iran.

LEADERS SUPPORT

https://news.am/eng/news/605358.html

President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin, President of the United States Donald Trump and President of France Emmanuel Macron, who represent the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairmanship, most resolutely condemn the escalation of violence that is taking place on the line of contact of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, as reported on the official website of the Kremlin.

REPORTERS

https://news.am/eng/news/605360.html

These days, Foreign Ministry of Armenia has accredited groups of journalists from more than 50 leading international media outlets-about 200 foreign journalists, most of whom are already in Armenia and Artsakh, said Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia Anna Naghdalyan.

Accreditation applications continue with the same intensity, she added.

REPORTER WOUNDED

https://news.am/eng/news/605349.html

https://news.am/eng/news/605356.html

https://news.am/eng/news/605350.html

https://news.am/eng/news/605319.html

Reporters covering Nagorno Karabakh clashes have been targeted in the Azerbaijani bombing.

Sevak Vardumyan, a reporter of 24news.am news website of Armenia, was wounded in the Azerbaijani bombing of Martuni, Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh), 24news.am cameraman Artur Harutyunyan told Armenian News-NEWS.am.

"The reporter's condition is normal now, he suffered a shrapnel wound in the back. He is now in the Stepanakert hospital," said Harutyunyan.

Another reporter of Le Monde is undergoing surgery after being wounded from the Azerbaijani shelling in Martuni, Nagorno-Karabakh, as reported Spokesperson of the President of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) Vahram Poghosyan, who added that the reporter is in critical condition.

According to the head of the News-Analysis Center of the Government SNCO Hovhannes Movsisyan, the Azerbaijani armed forces also targeted the vehicle transporting the reporters of Agence France-Presse (AFP) carrying out their journalistic mission in Artsakh. There are no victims.

And the video crew of a television company of Armenia was also attacked during the coverage of the hostilities. Journalist Tatevik Baghdasaryan wrote about this on her Facebook page.

"Our colleague, cameraman Aram Grigoryan, was wounded. The injury, fortunately, is minor. Aram Grigoryan is a participant in the four-day war in April [2016]," she added.

CANADA TO INVESTIGATE

https://news.am/eng/news/605336.html

Foreign Affairs Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne has ordered an investigation into allegations Canadian technology is being used in drones that are targeting Armenians in the ongoing Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict in Artsakh, CTV News reported.

"Canada is deeply concerned by reports of large scale military action along the line of contact in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone, and we call for the immediate end of hostilities, respect for the ceasefire agreement, and the protection of civilians," said Michel Cimpaye, a spokesperson from Global Affairs Canada, in a statement emailed to CTVNews.ca.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 16:09:17|Editor: huaxia

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File photo taken on Sept. 16, 2019 shows two Maliwawa-style depictions of back-to-back animals in Awunbarna, Australia. Hundreds of previously undocumented cave art images from Australia's remote north are allowing researchers to step back thousands of years in time, and see through the eyes of the continent's early inhabitants. In a paper published Thursday, experts catalogued 572 images across 87 sites in Arnhem Land in Australia's Northern Territory, ranging in age from 6000 to 9400 years old, and named them the Maliwawa Figures. (P. Tacon/Griffith University/Handout via Xinhua)

SYDNEY, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Hundreds of previously undocumented cave art images from Australia's remote north are allowing researchers to step back thousands of years in time, and see through the eyes of the continent's early inhabitants.

In a paper published Thursday, experts catalogued 572 images across 87 sites in Arnhem Land in Australia's Northern Territory, ranging in age from 6000 to 9400 years old, and named them the Maliwawa Figures.

The images depict a range of animals and humans, often in ceremonial contexts, with some of them over 50 cm in size.

"Human figures are frequently depicted with animals, especially macropods, and these animal-human relationships appear to be central to the artists' message," said lead author Professor Paul Tacon, Australian Research Council Laureate Fellow and Griffith University Chair in Rock Art Research.

"The artists are clearly communicating aspects of their cultural beliefs, with an emphasis on important animals and interactions between humans and other humans or animals."

Early inhabitants of the region would have lived a primarily hunter-gatherer lifestyle, placing them in constant contact with nature and reliant on local flora and fauna for survival.

It is believed that the indigenous people have occupied the Australian continent for at least 50,000 years, with Arnhem Land yielding some of the oldest sites on record.

Tacon described the Maliwawa Figures as a "missing link" between earlier and better known examples of cave drawings, from around 12,000 years ago, and those created within the past 4,000 years.

Amongst the images is also the oldest known depiction of a dugong, a large marine mammal -- a surprising find for researchers given the distance of the rock walls from the ocean, which would have been even further away when the images were created.

"Today it is located about 15 km south of the Arafura Sea but 6000 to 9400 years ago the coast would have been further north," said co-author Sally K. May from Griffith University's Place, Evolution and Rock Art Heritage Unit.

"It indicates a Maliwawa artist visited the coast but the lack of other saltwater fauna may suggest this was not a frequent occurrence."

The team is unsure whether the images were created by a small group of artists, or represent a larger movement in terms of a style which was carried out by a number of the clans in the region over an extended period of time. Enditem
BAY CITY, MI  Federal authorities have dismissed their case against an Omer man they had alleged threatened to steal a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter as a plan to attack a hospital and release those receiving treatment for coronavirus.

U.S. Attorney Matthew Schneider on Wednesday, Sept. 30, authored a motion seeking the dismissal of federal charges against Jesse T. McFadden, 70.

The government needs additional time to determine whether federal prosecution is in the interests of justice, Schneider wrote. The governments ability to prosecute this case properly would be substantially impaired were it required to proceed to indictment within the time period prescribed by the Speedy Trial Act.

Schneider asked the case to be dismissed without prejudice, meaning prosecutors can refile it in the future.

U.S. District Magistrate Judge Patricia T. Morris on Wednesday granted Schneiders request for dismissal.

McFadden had been charged with one count of felon in possession of a firearm, a 10-year felony. On the state level, however, McFadden remains charged in Bay County District Court with three counts of assaulting, resisting, or obstructing police and one count of transporting a loaded firearm in a motor vehicle. Both of those charges are two-year felonies.

According to an affidavit authored by a Coast Guard Investigative Unit special agent, McFadden at about 8 a.m. on May 17 called Arenac County Central Dispatch and told a dispatcher he was heading to the U.S. Coast Guard Station Saginaw River at 2405 Weadock Highway in Essexville to steal a helicopter to further his plan to attack a police station and shoot up a local hospital.

McFadden told the dispatcher that he wanted to disrupt the power to the hospital, unlock the doors, and release patients under COVID-19 quarantine, the agent wrote.

McFadden also told the dispatcher he was armed with a machine gun, the agent wrote in his affidavit. Dispatchers notified Coast Guard personnel and area police agencies, while also providing McFaddens criminal history of brandishing weapons and resisting police, the affidavit states.

A .12-gauge Mossberg shotgun police say they recovered from the passenger seat of Jesse T. McFadden's vehicle on May 17, 2020.

Around 10:30 a.m., personnel at the Coast Guards Essexville station called Bay County Central Dispatch to report McFadden had arrived and was trying to gain entry through the gate using a keypad. Unable to get inside, he called the station communications center and demanded access, the affidavit states.

When personnel denied McFaddens request, he threatened to ram the gate open with his black Ford Explorer.

Around 10:39 p.m., McFadden drove away from the station. Police searched the area, eventually spotting McFaddens truck at the Speedway gas station at 1504 Center Ave. in Hampton Township. The parked truck was unoccupied, though its engine was still running and its drivers side door was open.

Michigan State Police troopers, Bay County Sheriffs deputies, and Hampton Township and Essexville public safety officers converged in the Speedway parking lot. A few moments later, McFadden exited the store and was stopped by a trooper, who engaged in him in conversation, Hampton Township Public Safety Lt. Michael Wedding previously told MLive.

As the two spoke, Wedding sneaked around to the passenger side of McFaddens Ford, opened that door, and turned off the ignition. In the passenger seat beneath a black leather jacket was a .12-gauge Mossberg shotgun, the barrel pointed toward the floorboard and the stock upright, Wedding has said.

Once McFadden saw Wedding had the gun, he slapped the forearm of the trooper he was talking with and pushed him away. An Essexville officer then pulled his Taser and deployed it, though one of the barbs struck a button and rendered the jolt ineffective.

McFadden then swung at the officer before several more took him to the ground and managed to get him in handcuffs and arrest him.

Police found no other weapons on McFadden or in the vehicle. They did find some prescription medication and marijuana, Wedding has said.

The shotgun had been loaded with five shells. McFadden told police he had the gun for skeet shooting, Wedding has said.

Since his arraignment, McFadden has been court-ordered to undergo a psychological evaluation to assess his competency for trial. District Judge Mark E. Janer is to preside over a hearing on McFaddens evaluation on Oct. 5.

McFadden remains in custody at the Bay County Jail as of Wednesday.

Read more:

Man accused of threatening to steal Coast Guard helicopter faces federal charge

Omer man threatened to shoot up hospital, ram Coast Guard gate to steal helicopter, police say

1,000 acres of corn in Bay County sabotaged to kill cows, police say
Its been almost a decade since Brandon son of David Cronenberg introduced himself to unsuspecting audiences with the deliberately provocative, confrontational, repellent Antiviral.

Eagerly, not to mention gladly, adopting his fathers long-abandoned mantle as the philosopher-king of body-horror (a sub-genre David may not have originated or defined [that honor belongs to film scholar Linda Williams], but certainly perfected over the better part of two decades), Brandon Cronenberg decided to revisit his fathers decades-long obsession with the human body and its myriad permutations, modifications, and mutations, adding his own twisty philosophical, political, and cultural ideas in the process.

Antiviral also uncovered Brandons surprisingly felt concerns that went beyond merely imitating his fathers deliberate excesses as a filmmaker. Antiviral revealed Brandons anti-corporate, anti-capitalist, and anti-consumerist politics, similar political stances at the forefront of his long-anticipated, startlingly singular second film, Possessor Uncut. As self-consciously subversive and disquieting as anything found in his fathers decades-long oeuvre (a compliment, in case youre wondering), Possessor Uncut confirms the younger Cronenberg as one of the most provocative talents working in or out of the horror genre.

Set in a bleak, near-future dystopia where monopolistic corporatism regulates public and private life (like Rollerball, but minus the roller-balling)  a social media/information/consumer-oriented company (part Google, part Facebook, and part Amazon) rules with faux-benevolence  Possessor Uncut centers on Tasya Vos (Andrea Riseborough), a wholly-owned and operated assassin in the employ of a soulless corporation that specializes in murders-for-hire (Do evil, contra Googles long-abandoned motto).

Via lo-fi, analog brain-implant tech, Tasya takes over the bodies of unsuspecting, unwitting marks (or hosts) and literally drives them to commit profit-oriented assassinations, sometimes for cold, hard cash, sometimes for shares in a publicly-traded company (redefining the phrase hostile takeover). When Tasya isnt committing parasitical, corporate-sanctioned murder for profit, shes trying to repair a broken relationship with her academic ex-husband, Michael (Rossif Sutherland), and her preteen son, Ira (Gage Graham-Arbuthnot).

Those moments of respite and normality, however, fail to convince Tasya to leave the corporate assassination gig behind and reintegrate herself into her ex-husband and sons lives (for reasons Cronenberg leaves intentionally ambiguous). Theres always a new corporate, always a new target to eliminate. Even then, bleed between Tasyas non-corporate life and her hosts life experiences threaten to destabilize her increasingly fragile mental and emotional state.

For Tasya, every hit comes with a potential life-altering or life-ending risk, potentially leaving Tasya marooned or stranded in a host body to face the consequences of her avatars real-world actions. An unbroken link can also cause irreparable brain damage if the link between controller and host isnt severed in time.

That inherent possibility  spelled out early in Possessor Uncut  becomes Tasyas worst nightmare when she loses partial control of her mark/target, Colin (Christopher Abbott) moments after he/she attempts to assassinate John Parse (Sean Bean), the CEO of the aforementioned mega-tech company, after a lavish dinner party in his home. The film turns on the extended life-or-death battle between Tasya and Colin for ultimate control of Colins body. To borrow Highlanders tagline, There can only be One. Even as they vie for control, Colin/Tasya go on the run from both the authorities and corporate spies working for Tasyas employer.

With Possessor Uncut, Brandon Cronenberg leaves little doubt about his talents or skill as a narrative filmmaker. Every line, every character tic, every element of the frame reflects Cronenbergs uncompromising, nihilistic vision of a near-future where every life doesnt have intrinsic value, only an economic/market one, to borrow a phrase from Blade Runner, either a benefit or a hazard, except replicants dont exist in the world of Possessor Uncut, though if they did, everyone, regardless of biological origin, would be valued - or rather devalued - similarly.

Its an ugly, dispiriting lesson that Colin and Tasya eventually learn to opposite, contradictory results. In a near-future where human life has only economic value (means, not ends), violence, brutal, bloody, and gory, is all but certain to follow.

And like his filmmaker father, Cronenberg approaches the depiction of violence in the film with detached, clinical precision, devoid of emotional connection or reaction (by the characters, if not the audience), and with a hyper-realism that will leave even the most jaded, cynical audiences shattered, shook, and devastated by Possessor Uncuts near-future dystopia, just as the younger Cronenberg intended (amen).

Review originally published during the 2020 Sundance Film Festival under its original title, Possessor. NEON will release the film in U.S. theaters on Friday, October 2, 2020. Visit the official site for more information.
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has begun a new wave of campaign style against former President Mahama's re-election bid.

This time round, it is not just about Mr Mahama's 'incompetence'. Instead, he thinks Mr Mahama is not trustworthy, for which reason Ghanaians should not take him seriously as regards his promises.

He said this when he began his tour of the Greater Accra Region yesterday.

This election is about records between NPP and NDC since both parties and individuals have had a stint at the presidency and not only has he (referring to Mahama) proven to be incompetent, but he has also proven to not have credibility; no credibility and no vision (sic), he said.

Apart from that, Dr Bawumia said, He could not pay NHIS service providers; he had to cancel teacher training allowance, cancel nursing training allowance, introduce utility bills for students, abolish Arabic instructors allowance. We had a backlog of nurses who could not get employment; ambulance system was collapsing, even chalk in school was a problem.

He, therefore, concluded, this is incompetence, pure and simple.

The Vice-President considered the upcoming December 2020 elections as a crucial one for the country. He, therefore, urged Ghanaians not to trust Mr Mahama with any of the promises he is making.

---Daily Guide
Mumbai, Oct 1 : Two-wheeler and commercial vehicle manufacturer Bajaj Auto on Thursday reported a healthy growth in total sales during September on a year-on-year basis.

According to the company, total sales during the month under review grew by 10 per cent to 441,306 units from 402,035 units sold during the corresponding month of 2019.

Similarly, Bajaj Auto's total domestic sales rose. It stood at 228,731 units -- up 6 per cent -- from 215,501 units sold in September last year.

The company's overall exports zoomed by 14 per cent to 212,575 units from 186,534 units shipped out during the like month of 2019.

In terms of two-wheelers, the company's total sales rose by 20 per cent to 404,851 units from 336,730 units sold in September last year.

However, the company's commercial vehicle sales during the month under review declined by 44 per cent to 36,455 units from 65,305 units sold during the like period of last year.
Former Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Koku Anyidoho, has posed a thought-provoking question to the partys running mate, Prof Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang.



The NDC Stalwart has quizzed if the latter is more important than the founder of the party, Jerry John Rawlings. His comment comes on the back of the NDCs flagbearer, John Mahamas, revelation that his running mate was a victim of the anomalies in the just-released provisional register.



Speaking at a press conference in Accra on Thursday, September 24, 2020, Mr Mahama noted the running mates voter ID number was duplicated. According to him, this validates their concerns raised during the compilation of the voters register which he accuses the Electoral Commission turned a blind eye to.



Though it is not clear if former President Rawlings has suffered the same fate, Mr Anyidoho, taking to Twitter, described the comment as funny. Tweet below:-









I laugh when I hear that the Running Mate of the Umbrella says her Voter ID was duplicated: Is she more important than the FOUNDER of the NDC?



 Samuel Koku Anyidoho (@KokuAnyidoho) September 25, 2020

Source: twitter/adomonline.com









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Rolls-Royce Holdings Plc unveiled a long-awaited financing plan, targeting up to five billion pounds ($6.5 billion U.S.) of fresh capital to buttress the U.K. jet-engine-maker against a historic aerospace downturn that still has years to go.

The London-based company will tap existing shareholders for two billion pounds in a rights issue, and is seeking to borrow a further three billion pounds in bonds and loans, it said in a statement Thursday. Rolls-Royce shares fell as much 11 per cent, extending a months-long decline, while its euro bonds jumped by the most since they were issued.

The funding is aimed at seeing Rolls-Royce through to 2022, when it expects to resume strong cash generation. Chief executive officer Warren East, who has been working on the plan for months, sought to reassure investors that it would suffice, and give the company breathing room to sell assets from a stronger position as he repositions to focus more on defence and sustainable power.

Its probably the most difficult period the global aviation sector has faced in peace time, East said on a conference call. Unprecedented times call for unprecedented action.

Rolls-Royce has been one of the biggest casualties in a sector hard hit by the coronavirus crisis, which has sharply curtailed the market for long-distance travel. Thats hurt demand for the wide-body planes that use its turbines, while grounding swaths of existing fleets that provide vital maintenance revenue.

Shares of Rolls-Royce traded 9.7 per cent lower to 117.35 pence as of 10:27 a.m. in London. They are down 83 per cent this year.

Months of talks

Speculation about the companys financing plans has been rife for months, with the share-price drop accelerating since early July, when Bloomberg reported that East was considering raising more equity. Talks to draw in sovereign funds as investors were abruptly dropped after shareholders objected to dilution.

On Thursday, East faced questions on why the company hadnt acted sooner. He said now was the right time as the company has made progress on its wider restructuring plans.

Its important we dont run for the equity markets without getting the self-help measures in place, he said. We couldnt possibly ask our shareholders to shoulder all of the burden.

Jefferies International analyst Sandy Morris said in a note that investors have generally focused on worst-case outcomes for Rolls but that the multi-element refinancing represents an holistic package.

The funding plans:

A 10-for-three rights issue, which will come at a 41.4 per cent discount to Wednesdays closing price, has been fully underwritten.

A one billion-pound bond offering will proceed in the near future.

Contingent on completion of the equity offer, Rolls said it also has commitments for a two-year term loan of one billion pounds.

U.K. Export Finance has indicated backing for an extension of its 80 per cent guarantee to support a one billion-pound increase in an existing loan, subject to completion of the rights offer.

The fundraising would boost Rolls-Royce borrowings to almost 16 billion pounds, according to data compiled by Bloomberg and company announcements.

The package is based on a worst-case projection where a second wave of the coronavirus leads to a slower recovery, East said. The financing should take any liquidity questions off the table through the crisis, he said, adding that Rolls-Royce doesnt have any plans to seek a bailout from the U.K. government, owner of a so-called golden share.

Uphill road

Early indications show that engine-flying hours for September were not too bad, East said. He still sees growth in the wide-body engine market, though the market wont recover until 2025.

The CEO is still targeting a step change in performance at the civil aerospace business, a goal thats eluded him since he took the reins in 2015. Just before the virus hit, Rolls-Royce expressed optimism it was beginning to turn the page on engine-quality issues that had blighted profits and soured relations with customers.

Even as it picks its way through the crisis, the company faces an uphill road.

Investment in new aircraft is set to remain suppressed, and the recovery in air travel is likely to focus on shorter trips using smaller planes  a market where Rolls-Royce does not compete. Significant investment will also be needed to prepare for new technologies as aerospace seeks more sustainable sources of power.

We think that the long-term prospects remain strong, East said. Our immediate focus is to strengthen our financial position and return to positive cash flow.
COVID-19 has an erratic impact pattern on patients and scientists are still trying to understand the exact implications of contracting the disease.

Unsplash

In a new understanding, a study now suggests that the increased deaths observed in males due to COVID-19 might have something to do with reduced testosterone levels in the patients.

Published in the journal Taylor & Francis, the research has been conducted by a team of scientists from the University of Mersin School of Medicine, Turkey. The study concludes Covid-19 can possibly deteriorate serum testosterone level in infected male patients. Such low testosterone levels have a significant increased risk for the ICU and mortality in patients.

(Representative Image: Reuters)

The study examined a total of 221 male patients of over 18 years of age who had been hospitalised with laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2. The team of scientists divided the patients into 3 groups: asymptomatic patients (46), symptomatic patients (129) in the internal medicine unit (IMU), and patients (46) in the intensive care unit (ICU).



COVID-19 and male impact

"Testosterone is associated with the immune system of respiratory organs, and low levels of testosterone might increase the risk of respiratory infections," lead author Selahittin Cayan mentions in the study.

The results of the study were found to be in line with this. The research showed that as total testosterone level at baseline decreased, the probability of patients to be in ICU as well as their chances of mortality increased significantly.

(Representative Image: Reuters)

Scientists also found that the mean total testosterone level was significantly lower in the ICU group than in the asymptomatic group as well as the IMU group. The mean FSH level (follicle stimulating hormone), on the other hand, was significantly higher in the ICU group than in the asymptomatic group.



The findings reflect an important pattern and can help doctors across the world diagnose COVID-19 patients accordingly. As per Prof Cayan, treating testosterone levels might control the deaths due to COVID-19.
With millions of Americans and others around the world watching Tuesday night, the president of the United States, during a live, televised debate, claimed that mail-in voting in his countrys upcoming election would lead to fraud like youve never seen.

Asked by moderator Chris Wallace if he would urge his supporters to stay calm and not to engage in any civil unrest as the results of the Nov. 3 vote were determined over what might be days or weeks, U.S. President Donald Trump then demurred.

I hope its going to be a fair election. If its a fair election, I am 100 per cent on board, Trump said. But if I see tens of thousands of ballots being manipulated, I cant go along with that.

The prospect of a U.S. president threatening not to go along with an election result would have seemed unbelievable to many of us, even four years ago.

But Trump has been nothing if not a disrupter during his time in office, again and again defying what would have once been thought norms of presidential behaviour.

Statements made throughout his presidency have repeatedly raised for some the spectre of authoritarianism in what was long considered the worlds greatest democracy.

While supporters are quick to brush off that suggestion, some who have studied autocrats  a term defined by Merriam-Webster as a person ruling with absolute authority  see in the American presidents remarks the familiar signs of a sinister decline.

Repeatedly, during Tuesday evenings debate with Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden, critics say, Trump showed signs of crossing what they believe to be a dangerous line.

The Star talked to several such observers, who pointed to specific instances that gave them cause for concern about what is yet to come in the United States of America.

Trump tells a violent far-right group to stand by

What happened: The question put to Trump was whether he would, on live TV, agree to condemn white supremacist groups contributing to violence in U.S. cities. When Trump asked specifically which group he was being asked to condemn, Biden suggested the Proud Boys  an all-male white supremacist group that has described itself as a militant gang and whose Canadian leader has advocated violence.

Trump responded: Proud boys, stand back and stand by. But Ill tell you what. Ill tell you what  somebody has got to do something about antifa and the left, because that is not a right-wing problem.

The analysis: Lucan Way, a University of Toronto professor and the author of multiple books on authoritarianism, says Trumps refusal to condemn the Proud Boys  even instructing them to stand by  was one of the most transparent moments of authoritarian behaviour on display during the debate.

Theres one thing that a lot of autocrats do, which is openly rely on thugs to further their cause, Way said.

In the same breath, the president went on to disparage antifa  a word sometimes used to describe the most radical of left-wing protesters in cities such as Portland and New York, and who are the main target of racist and sometimes violent Proud Boys counter-protests. Because of that, Trumps disparaging words about antifa may have done as much to promote extremist opposition to Trumps left-wing opponents as the stand by message, Way said.

Hes clearly entered unambiguously into the realm of authoritarianism, Way said.

Trump questions the integrity of the vote

What happened: In response to a question about what the candidates would be prepared to do to reassure voters that 2020 saw a free and fair election, Trumps response amounted to: That depends on whether I like what I see.

Trump repeated statements hes made previously, calling the mail-in voting system fraudulent.

The analysis: It was a historic moment to watch a U.S. president  a role once touted as being the leader of the free world  undermine basic democratic institutions on an official debate stage.

Stepping back, this is clearly what, in political jargony terms, we refer to as a regime selection, Way said.

Of everything that took place during the debate, this was the most overtly authoritarian stance taken by Trump, Way said.

What do autocrats do? They dont accept free and fair elections, Way said. Both sides accepting the results of a free and fair election is sine qua non (without which, not) for any kind of stable democracy. Clearly Trump is completely unwilling to do that.

Trumps constant interrupting

What happened: Much of what Biden said during the debate was obscured by Trumps incessant interrupting. At one point, the moderator, Wallace, reminded Trump that his own campaign had agreed to debate terms that included a two-minute uninterrupted response to the initial questions for both candidates.

The analysis: No one was surprised that Trump entered the first debate with a bullying attitude  trying to appear louder and bigger than his opponent in every way, says Janni Aragon, political science professor at the University of Victoria.

This is par for the course for Trump  the talking-over, the going after Beau (Biden), Aragon said.

The interrupting and flouting of debate rules is all part of projecting an image that he alone is above the rules, said Aragon.

Its the cult of personality.

Aragon sees the persona Trump asserts for himself as an essential part of his strategy.

His leadership style is authoritarian. Hes acting like CEO of the United States, Aragon said.

That may have produced more frustration than admiration from Americans, except for Trumps base of supporters.

The next 24 hours will hopefully cause the presidents people to remind him that he might want to act more like a leader and less like a bully.

Trump bends (or flouts) the truth

What happened: Trump made a barrage of false claims during Tuesdays debate, including false statements about election fraud, claims that he could secure a coronavirus vaccine faster than what most scientists have said is possible and false statements about Joe Bidens health-care plan.

The analysis: When the facts are not in his favour, Trump does not shy away from constructing an alternative  and untruthful  story that serves him better politically, Way said.

Thats his strategy because the core facts are not in his favour, Way said. When 200,000 people have died from COVID-19 in the United States, simply running on his record is impossible.

That leads to an authoritarian strategy that is more subtle than the violent oppressive tactics people usually associate with autocrats.

Referencing the Russian leader, Vladimir Putin, Way said, The Putin strategy is basically to enhance cynicism of the democratic processes as a whole  basically to see the opposition as corrupt.

As someone who studies the rise of authoritarianism, its this subtle strategy that Way says frightens him the most. Even though Trump has repeatedly spouted untruths, he has been successful at convincing his dedicated base of his version of events.

The strategy is to eliminate a core basis of commonly shared facts that would allow people to make a decision in the election, Way said.

Aragon pointed to one moment of the debate when Trump doubled down on a decision to cancel critical race theory training for federal agencies.

One of the things that strikes me about that is the utter denial of systemic racism in the United States and of the oppression of people of colour, she said. It was in my grandparents lifetimes where there would be signs that said no Mexicans, no dogs, in Texas.

Way said Trumps tactics dont rise to the same level of the those used in Russia, where dissidents have been arrested and allegedly attacked by state actors, allegations Putin denies involvement in.

Way compares Trump instead to Hungarys Viktor Orban.

Orban basically plays by a set of rules  but he changes those rules to effectively make it impossible for opposition to win, Way said.

Civil society isnt arrested, no one is shot, but hes effectively tilting the playing field, Way said.

Acting this leaves room for supporters to justify Trumps actions.

Thats exactly why this is such a brilliant strategy, he said.

Whats next

Way doesnt shy away from laying out what he considers to be the stakes in the weeks ahead.

This really strikes at the heart of democracy in a profound way, he says.

It very likely is a contest over whether the United States will remain a democracy.

Aragon, meanwhile, said she understands why Canadian students seem so engaged in the American election.

Theres an element of what she calls a trickle-up effect, where political movements and ideas become emulated in Canada.

She adds a warning: We shouldnt clutch our pearls and say this couldnt happen in Canada.

Read more about:
On historian and royal biographer Robert Laceys desk is a large envelope, still sealed. It contains draft chapters from his latest book, which  as is his custom  he sent to Buckingham Palace pre-publication.

Its quite unusual for a royal writer to do this, but Lacey has always worked this way. In 1977, when he was more famous for being an investigative journalist, he wrote what is still regarded as the definitive biography of the Queen. Palace officials co-operated, and he was invited to have tea with senior courtiers.

He has never allowed his subjects to veto his work, but he says allowing them to see parts, not all of a book in advance is courteous and allows those involved to challenge key points, if necessary.

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It allows debate, he says. If they dont agree with something, we can argue it out.

So he packed up the key chapters from his latest book and sent them off, fully aware that the Palace may not like some aspects of his forensic account of what is happening in the House of Windsor. He was a little surprised, though, when the package was returned to him, unopened, with a terse covering letter. In short, the Palace did not want to know.

Robert Laceys new book Battle Of Brothers picks apart the feud between Prince William and Prince Harry, a breach in the Royal family that is 'as dangerous as the Abdication', according to the Royal biographer

The historian sent off draft chapters from his latest book  as is his custom  to Buckingham Palace pre-publication. But he was surprised when the package was returned to him, unopened, with a terse covering letter. In short, the Palace did not want to know.

The problem? The book is called Battle Of Brothers, and it picks apart  in uncompromising detail  the feud between Prince William and Prince Harry. The Palaces response, to a previously trusted and respected author  one whose aristocratic wife was a maid of honour at the Queens Coronation  speaks volumes, he thinks.

They took fright over the title, probably, says Robert, acknowledging that, had it been opened, the book might have had the effect of a grenade.

But the title is correct, and important. When I started to look into this supposed feud between the two princes, I didnt believe it. I thought it was newspapers stirring up something that wasnt there. I didnt want to believe it, in truth. None of us does. Yet it most definitely exists. Actually, its worse than anyone thinks.

Some say, Oh, it doesnt matter. It will blow over. But thats not what historians will be saying in ten years time. If this breach between the brothers is not healed in some way it will come to stand with the Abdication crisis and the death of Diana as one of the traumas that changed the monarchy. There is time to change things in a positive direction, but at the moment the Palace is not working in that direction.

BATTLE OF THE BROTHERS: Acclaimed Royal biographer Robert Lacey (pictured with wife Lady Jane Rayne) famously sends certain chapters from his upcoming books to Buckingham Palace pre-publication. They can't veto, but it allows debate, he says. If they dont agree with something, we can argue it out. However, chapters from Lacey's latest book, which he duly packed up and sent of, were returned unopened, accompanied by a terse covering letter. In short, the Palace did not want to know. But why such a frosty response?

Roberts book  serialised in the Mail tomorrow and next week  paints a devastating picture of the fall-out from this breakdown in the once-close relationship between the two brothers. It traces the lives of both of them  and their very different spouses  from the moments they were born.

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As we know, it is not the only new book to touch on the lives of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Its approach is very different, however, to that of Finding Freedom, by Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand, which tells the Harry and Meghan story from their point of view.

Too much so, he believes. It is very much written in the old- fashioned adulatory style of royal eulogy, he says. Does he believe the couple were directly involved in briefing the authors? Well, put it this way, there are some descriptions that could only have come from the lips of Harry or Meghan.

For his own book, Robert spent months talking to royal insiders about when the cracks in the brothers relationship started to appear (spoiler alert: it happened earlier than you think), and, pointedly, how the system of monarchy conspired to fan the flames of resentment rather than broker a compromise between the two.

'If this breach between the brothers is not healed in some way it will come to stand with the Abdication crisis and the death of Diana as one of the traumas that changed the monarchy,' said Robert. Pictured: King Edward VIII abdicating the throne in December 1936

Edward VIII's abdication in order to marry American divorcee Wallace Simpson was seen as the greatest crisis for the monarchy in the 20th century. Pictured: The Duke and Duchess of Windsor standing on stone steps in Miami in 1941

Thanks to Roberts reputation, countless individuals with direct knowledge of what happened agreed to help. Because of the sensitivities, the main sources declined to be named, but there was no shortage of people who did want to talk, because this is an issue there is huge concern about.

Robert, who is also a consultant on the Netflix series The Crown, once moved his family (he has three children with his first wife Sandi) to Jeddah to write a book on the Saudi royal family. He is impeccably connected. In 2012 he married widow Lady Jane Rayne, daughter of the 8th Marquess of Londonderry  but he points out that his professional reputation pre-dates all this.

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Above all, he insists the relationship between the princes is critical to the future of the Royal Family. It matters, he says. Its a question of values, even about the national morale. The idea of our modern royalty was built on the idea of these two brothers.

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What youve got to realise is that the whole strategy of the monarchy was based on them sticking together. Meghan changed all that. She is difficult. She has an incredible and dangerous level of self-belief.

But the Palace got this very wrong, as it always does with the second-born. They always treat the second-born badly, not to say cruelly. It happened with Princess Margaret. It happened with Prince Andrew. Its the classic heir and the spare thing. They just dont know what to do with the spare. And they certainly didnt know what to do with the spares wife.

The battle referred to in the title is, he agrees, about not just two brothers, two charming, talented but ultimately damaged young men, but about wider battles. Love versus duty. Tradition versus reinvention.

What of the Prince of Wales? Its noticeable that hes largely absent from our conversation today. It has been a long time since William has sought counsel from his father, Robert suggests, instead looking to his grandmother for guidance

Today, in conversation, Robert is both passionate about his subject and despairing. Not a single soul comes out of the book looking particularly good.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, as depicted in the book, are self-pitying, and assume an astonishing level of entitlement. Prince William is praised for having the duty gene but described as having a terrible temper. Even the Queen comes in for criticism. Harry is, by turns, hapless and hurt, but a young man who finds in Meghan an escape.

He finds new destiny, Robert says today. He realised there was something rotten at the heart of royalness that is not for him.

Then there is Diana, the late Princess of Wales, whom he describes as an anti-royal  he points out the parallels with Meghan, going as far as to say in her own way Meghan walks through minefields like Diana did. Metaphorical minefields.

The Prince of Wales? Its noticeable that hes largely absent from our conversation today. Doesnt he hold the key to bringing the feuding brothers back together?

When I started to look into this supposed feud between the two princes, I didnt believe it. I thought it was newspapers stirring up something that wasnt there. I didnt want to believe it, in truth. None of us does. Yet it most definitely exists. Pictured: Meghan and Harry speak in a Zoom interview with the Evening Standard from their new 11million home in Santa Barbara

Its approach is very different, however, to that of Finding Freedom, by Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand, which tells the Harry and Meghan story from their point of view

It has been a long time since William has sought counsel from his father, Robert suggests. William looks to his grandmother for his values, not to his father. He thinks his father has . . . lost his way. But perhaps there is still time for Charles to act. I hope so.

The book gives the impression everyone has rather lost their way. Robert is careful not to apportion blame but does believe the Palace handled the Meghan situation appallingly.

There is only one self-made millionaire in the Royal Family and that is Meghan Markle. If they had sat down with her at the start and said, Lets talk about the things you are interested in, things might have been different.

They just sent her off to watch the Queen opening the Mersey Bridge. There is nothing wrong with that, but they made the mistake of dealing with the spares wife thinking she was just a routine royal. She was never going to be a routine royal.

Nor should she have been, he argues. I dont want to go too deeply into the race thing, because that is another minefield altogether, but with Meghan the Royal Family had a mixed-race recruit, and for a monarchy that represents a mixed-race nation and a mixed-race commonwealth this was important. Is it any wonder Barbados and Jamaica are now saying, We are signing off. We can do without the Queen, thank you very much.

To have failed to hold on to their mixed-race recruit was a mistake.

Didnt the whole sorry mess come about because, as he puts it in the book, the Windsors dont do woke?

They dont do woke, but if they are to survive, the Windsors have to find their own way to do woke.

Today, he thinks the baton is mostly in Williams hand, and warns that the history of tomorrow is being written today.

Does Prince William want to go down in history as the king who couldnt hold his family together? This thing has to be resolved, one way or the other.

Harry and Meghan demand end to 'structural racism' in Britain: Prince reveals his 'awakening' to racial issues and defends Diversity's BGT dance - while Meghan describes BLM protests in the US as 'a beautiful thing'

ByRory Tingleand Mark Duell for MailOnline

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex today demanded an end to 'structural racism' in Britain.

In a wide-ranging interview from their 11million California mansion, Prince Harry revealed his 'awakening' to the discrimination faced by black people after meeting his wife.

Meanwhile, Meghan Markle praised Black Lives Matter protests in America after the death of George Floyd as 'beautiful' - but said this only applied to 'peaceful protest' and admitted many people found them 'inflammatory'.

Speaking on Zoom to the Evening Standard, Harry also weighed in on Diversity's controversial BLM dance routine on Britain's Got Talent and said he was 'surprised' by the negative comments it had received.

In a separate article for the newspaper, the couple said: 'As long as structural racism exists, there will be generations of young people of colour who do not start their lives with the same equality of opportunity as their white peers. And for as long as that continues, untapped potential will never get to be realised.'

The interview is the latest in a long series of political comments by the couple, including last week when Harry intervened in the US election by urging voters to 'reject hate speech'.

The comments - which broke royal protocol - were widely interpreted as a call to vote out Donald Trump. They prompted Buckingham Palace to immediately distance themselves from Harry by noting he was 'not working member of the Royal Family'.

Scroll down for a full transcript.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex called for an end to structural racism in Britain in an interview today with the Evening Standard

The couple gave today's interview to the Evening Standard over Zoom from their new mansion in Santa Barbara, California. In key developments -

Prince Harry said he had gone through an 'awakening' over racial issues after marrying Meghan Markle;

He said London 'doesn't feel as diverse as it actually is' for BAME people despite being celebrated as a bastion of multiculturalism;

Prince also defended dance troupe Diversity for their BLM-inspired dance and said he was 'surprised' by a wave of complaints to Ofcom;

He said Zoom had allowed him 'as much as humanely possible' to stay in touch with organisations he supported in the UK;

Meghan praised 'beautiful' Black Lives Matter protests in the US and said they were of 'historical significance';

Said life was 'so good' after moving to California and she was enjoying watching baby Archie grow up.

At a glance: Harry and Meghan on racism, Black Lives Matter and Diversity's controversial dance routine Harry - On racism: 'Because I wasn't aware of so many of the issues and so many of the problems within the UK and also globally as well. I thought I did but I didn't.' 'You know, when you go in to a shop with your children and you only see white dolls, do you even think: 'That's weird, there is not a black doll there?' And I use that as just one example of where we as white people don't always have the awareness of what it must be like for someone else of a different coloured skin, of a black skin, to be in the same situation as we are where the world that we know has been created by white people for white people.' 'It is not about pointing the finger, it is not about blame. I will be the first person to say, again, this is about learning. And about how we can make it better. I think it is a really exciting time in British culture and British history, and in world culture. This is a real moment that we should be grasping and actually celebrating. Because no one else has managed to do this before us.' On Diversity's BLM dance routine: 'We spoke to Ashley Banjo a few weeks ago, straight after the Britain's Got Talent situation. And that in itself, I am sure even me talking about it will be controversial, but the reality of it is he and his team of guys put on the most amazing display. 'We had such a good chat with Ashley. He was really strong, he felt great about it, but at the same time he was concerned because of the reaction. It was a real surprise that there was what? 1,100 complaints after the show and then three days of hype it became 20 or 25,000. I am very glad Ofcom made the decision that they did but that in itself kind of proves how much this conversation needs to continue.' On London: Harry said that even in London 'celebrated as one of the most diverse cities in the world, if you actually get out on to the streets and talk to people, it doesn't feel as diverse as it actually is. 'Therefore, now is the best time for us to be able to use our platform and you use your platform as well so we can actually start a conversation and introduce people to the black community that are making a massive difference within their own communities and across the UK as a whole as well.' On being away from the UK: 'Everything has been through video, everything has been in a room, somewhere. Actually it doesn't matter where in the world we have been, we have stayed in touch with and supported the organisations as much as humanly possible.' Meghan On BLM protests: '... when there is just peaceful protest and when there is the intention of just wanting community and just wanting the recognition of equality, then that is a beautiful thing. While it has been challenging for a lot of people certainly having to make this reckoning of historical significance that has got people to the place that they are, that is uncomfortable for people. We recognise that. It is uncomfortable for us.' On life in America: 'We are doing well. [Archie] is so good. We are very lucky with our little one. He is just so busy, he is all over the place. He keeps us on our toes. We are just so lucky. 'Everyone has been accustomed to what it means to be distanced. The impact of that, whether it is across the Pond or across town, you are still for the most part through a computer screen. We have all had to adapt to how we can have the most impact as possible within the constraints of what has happening with Covid-19. Like all of you, we are doing the best that we can and hoping that our passion and our commitment is still felt as it certainly hasn't wavered.' On nominating her BHM NextGen Trailblazers: 'An incredible example is Baroness Lawrence. Everything she has done in memory of her son [Stephen] is creating legacy across the UK in what it means to really push for the change that is necessary.' Their joint plea to tackle structural racism: 'For as long as structural racism exists, there will be generations of young people of colour who do not start their lives with the same equality of opportunity as their white peers. And for as long as that continues, untapped potential will never get to be realised.'

The couple's interview comes at a key moment for race issues around the world after the killing of unarmed black man George Floyd by a US policeman sparked a wave of protest.

During the unrest this summer there were scenes of violence, arson and looting, and a number of businesses were targeted.

Asked for her views on the BLM protests, Meghan admitted they had been 'inflammatory for a lot of people'.

She continued: 'But when there is just peaceful protest and when there is the intention of just wanting community and just wanting the recognition of equality, then that is a beautiful thing.

'While it has been challenging for a lot of people certainly having to make this reckoning of historical significance that has got people to the place that they are, that is uncomfortable for people. We recognise that. It is uncomfortable for us.

'And I think when everyone just starts to own that, we push through that and focus on how do we make it different moving forward? And if we just focus on the uplift and the positivity of that, while still acknowledging the past, that's where we reshape things, and that shouldn't be inflammatory at all. That should be really exciting actually.'

Meghan said that BLM in the US was a 'different movement' from the one that existed in the UK.

Harry, 36, who at one point was joined on camera by the couple's Beagle, Guy, said he had become more aware of the issue of racism after marrying Meghan, 39.

He said: 'Because I wasn't aware of so many of the issues and so many of the problems within the UK and also globally as well. I thought I did but I didn't.'

'You know, when you go in to a shop with your children and you only see white dolls, do you even think: 'That's weird, there is not a black doll there?'

'And I use that as just one example of where we as white people don't always have the awareness of what it must be like for someone else of a different coloured skin, of a black skin, to be in the same situation as we are where the world that we know has been created by white people for white people.'

'It is not about pointing the finger, it is not about blame. I will be the first person to say, again, this is about learning.

'And about how we can make it better. I think it is a really exciting time in British culture and British history, and in world culture. This is a real moment that we should be grasping and actually celebrating. Because no one else has managed to do this before us.'

The Prince weighed in on the issue of the Diversity dance troupe's BLM inspired dance on Britain's Got Talent, which sparked 24,500 complaints to Ofcom.

'We spoke to Ashley Banjo a few weeks ago, straight after the Britain's Got Talent situation,' Harry said.

'And that in itself, I am sure even me talking about it will be controversial, but the reality of it is he and his team of guys put on the most amazing display.

'We had such a good chat with Ashley. He was really strong, he felt great about it, but at the same time he was concerned because of the reaction. It was a real surprise that there was what? 1,100 complaints after the show and then three days of hype it became 20 or 25,000. I am very glad Ofcom made the decision that they did but that in itself kind of proves how much this conversation needs to continue.'

Meanwhile, Harry spoke of how he had become more aware of issues of racial discrimination in society and questioned how far Britain had progressed.

The prince said they although London was celebrated as one of world's most diverse cities, 'If you actually get out on to the streets and talk to people, it doesn't feel as diverse as it actually is.

'Therefore, now is the best time for us to be able to use our platform and you use your platform as well so we can actually start a conversation and introduce people to the black community that are making a massive difference within their own communities and across the UK as a whole as well.'

The couple recently moved into a 11million mansion in Santa Barbara after breaking with the Royal Family and leaving the UK.

Meghan said the couple were 'doing well' and enjoying life with their baby, Archie.

She said: 'We are very lucky with our little one. He is just so busy, he is all over the place.

'He keeps us on our toes. We are just so lucky.

'Everyone has been accustomed to what it means to be distanced. The impact of that, whether it is across the Pond or across town, you are still for the most part through a computer screen.

'We have all had to adapt to how we can have the most impact as possible within the constraints of what has happening with Covid-19.

'Like all of you, we are doing the best that we can and hoping that our passion and our commitment is still felt as it certainly hasn't wavered.'

Harry said he was coping with being away from Britain by using Zoom to stay in touch with people at home.

'Everything has been through video, everything has been in a room, somewhere,' he said. 'Actually it doesn't matter where in the world we have been, we have stayed in touch with and supported the organisations as much as humanly possible.'

The couple have been repeatedly criticised for breaking royal protocol by intervening in politics - including by apparently telling Americans how to vote

Ashley Banjo in Diversity's Black Lives Matter themed dance routine that sparked thousands of complaints to Ofcom

Prince Harry defends Diversity's 'amazing' BLM-inspired BGT routine and says thousands of complaints to Ofcom were a 'real surprise' Prince Harry today praised Diversity's 'amazing' Black Lives Matter-inspired dance routine on Britain's Got Talent as he called for an end to 'structural racism' in Britain. In a wide-ranging interview from the Sussexes' 11million California mansion, Prince Harry said he was 'surprised' by the thousands of complaints made to Ofcom after the controversial performance. Speaking to the Evening Standard, Harry revealed he spoke to Diversity's leader Ashley Banjo after the troupe's routine sparked a massive backlash. He said: 'We spoke to Ashley Banjo a few weeks ago, straight after the Britain's Got Talent situation. And that in itself, I am sure even me talking about it will be controversial, but the reality of it is he and his team of guys put on the most amazing display. 'We had such a good chat with Ashley. He was really strong, he felt great about it, but at the same time he was concerned because of the reaction. It was a real surprise that there was what? '1,100 complaints after the show and then three days of hype it became 20 or 25,000. I am very glad Ofcom made the decision that they did but that in itself kind of proves how much this conversation needs to continue.' Ofcom said it would not take action against Diversity as it argued that the troupe's performance 'referred to challenging and potentially controversial subjects, and in our view, its central message was a call for social cohesion and unity'.

Harry said he and Meghan hoped to use their high public profile to continue discussing racial discrimination.

He said: 'Now is the best time for us to be able to use our platform, joint with your platform as well, so that we can actually start a conversation and introduce people to the black community that are making a massive difference within their own communities but across the UK as a whole as well.

'So I think it's a month of celebration, and of course with a lot of other things going on in the UK and America and around the world at the moment, there can be parallels of connections to that, but essentially for us this is very much a celebration of Black History Month.'

To coincide with the interview the couple revealed their list of nominations for Black History Month's Next Generation Trailblazers, who were selected for challenging prejudice and contributing to British society.

Those nominated by the couple included Vogue editor Edward Enninful, Olympian boxer Nicola Adams, England rugby star Maro Itoje, the Met's Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu and Doreen Lawrence, mother of the murdered teenager Stephen Lawrence.

Discussing their nominations, Harry said: 'These are people that we know. People that we've interacted with over the years, people that have been mentioned to us by other people.

'Look, you know, this job has a certain uniqueness about it where we travel around the world, but we also visit all the communities, not all, but many communities within the UK, and the same names keep coming up.

'And we've been really just impressed, humbled and inspired at the same time by these individuals, whether it's Doreen Lawrence, or whether it's, you know, Neil Basu - these are people that are really, that are genuinely making a difference.'

Ending the interview, Meghan vowed that the couple would continue making their opinions known on issues that matter to them.

She said: 'You know, like all of you, we're doing the best that we can and hoping that our passion and our commitment is still felt, because it certainly hasn't wavered.'

At one point in the interview, the couple's Beagle, Guy, walked in on the interview, prompting Meghan to apologise.

The couple were interviewed by Evening Standard editor Emily Sheffield, and reporters Abbianca Makoni and Lizzie Edmonds

Meghan and Prince Harry's new home sits on 5.4 acres of land and immaculately clipped hedges border the estate's stone-pillared entry gates (pictured)

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have spoken out about the upcoming U.S. election, in a stark break with British tradition that prohibits royal involvement in politics

Black Lives Matter protests: How the death of George Floyd sparked a worldwide movement The death of George Floyd in May after a Minneapolis police officer knelt on his neck sparked a wave of Black Lives Matter-inspired protests in America and across the world. The video of Floyd - who was being arrested for allegedly using a counterfeit note - immediately went viral and his cry of 'I can't breathe' as he lay dying was adopted as a slogan of the movement. While the majority of protests have been peaceful, many have descended into violence and featured looting, rioting and at least 19 deaths. Activists have also sparked criticism for heir calls to strip police departments of their funding. The BLM cause was picked up across the world, sparking demonstrations in dozens of countries across Europe, Asia and Africa as well as Australia and New Zealand. In Britain, protesters have been criticised for defacing monuments, including the statue of Winston Churchill outside Parliament, which had to be boarded up. In one notable moment, BLM activists in Bristol tore down a statue of the slave trader Edward Colston and tossed it into the harbour. Asked on her thoughts of the BLM movement, Meghan said: 'The impetus is from a place of recognising equality and if you just go back to its ground level, I don't think there's anything controversial about it. 'What has been inflammatory for a lot of people is when any version of the community becomes disruptive. But when it's just peaceful protest and when there's the intention of just wanting unity and wanting recognition of equality, then that's a beautiful thing.'

Today's interview was the latest in a series of political interventions by the Sussexes that have sparked significant controversy.

Last week, they were accused of 'over-stepping the line' after a thinly-veiled swipe at Donald Trump as they urged Americans to get out and vote in the upcoming election.

In the couple's most high-profile intervention in the US presidential election, Harry urged voters to 'reject hate speech, misinformation and online negativity'  all qualities critics associate with Mr Trump.

In a TV appearance to mark Time magazine's 100 most influential people roll call, Meghan  who has made no secret of her antipathy towards the president  described November's vote as the most important election of her lifetime.

Meanwhile, Harry complained that he had never been able to exercise his democratic right to vote because of the convention that, as a member of the British Royal Family, he should remain politically neutral.

Royal insiders voiced concern in Britain where the Queen and her family are expected to remain politically neutral at all times, with one saying that Harry and Meghan had 'crossed a line'.

Buckingham Palace also distanced itself from Harry's remarks by saying that 'the Duke is not a working member of the royal family' and describing his comments as 'made in a personal capacity'.

Harry and Meghan made their comments in a Time 100 video to go with the publication of this year's list of the most influential people, which does not include the royal couple.

'As we approach this November, it's vital that we reject hate speech, misinformation and online negativity,' said Harry.

This was a line some observers in Britain and the U.S. immediately took many be a plug for Joe Biden and a slap at President Trump.

'We're six weeks out from the election, and today is Voter Registration Day,' Meghan said.

'Every four years, we're told the same thing, 'This is the most important election of our lifetime.

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'But this one is.

A protester holds a sign saying 'defund the police' at a protest backing Black Lives Matter in New York. Meghan said she thought peaceful protests were 'beautiful' but said she accepted some people found them 'inflammatory'
Ukraine International Airlines has suspended the start of flights to Baku until the end of October due to restrictions on entry into Azerbaijan because of the extension of quarantine measures.

Ukraine International Airlines (UIA) is forced to suspend the start of flights to Baku. The resumption of flights has been postponed until the end of October due to restrictions on entry into Azerbaijan due to the extension of quarantine measures. The Government of Azerbaijan announced this information on September 30, 2020 by issuing NOTAM (a document announcing a change in procedures, the establishment of a ban / restriction on the use of airspace or the operation of airfields and other events), the UIA press service informs.

In the future, UIA will closely monitor the epidemiological situation in the country, as well as the events in Nagorno-Karabakh, so as not to lose the opportunity to resume flights, if the required level of flight safety.

On the morning of September 27, Armenia and Azerbaijan resumed hostilities in Nagorno-Karabakh region, blaming each other for firing on border areas and provoking violence. Both countries declared martial law and mobilization.

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The Prairie Doc: Do your part for the person across the table

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COVID-19 may deplete men's testosterone levels; asymptomatics could also 'lose their sex drive,' new data says.

Many are wondering why men are more susceptible to having severe COVID-19. Well, a study suggests that COVID-19 disease depletes men's testosterone levels, causing them to lose their sex drive. Researchers in Turkey studied the sex hormone levels on 200 men who were hospitalized after they tested positive for the virus.

More than half (51%) had developed a condition called hypogonadism that causes their bodies to not produce enough testosterone. On average, participant's testosterone levels drained by 30% post-infection to borderline unhealthy levels.

According to Daily Mail, Academic claims a direct correlation between severe COVId-19 disease and the decrease of testosterone levels. Even among men who are asymptomatic of the coronavirus at all had lowered sex drive. Two-thirds reported having decreased sex drive- a tell-tale sign of low testosterone.

Testosterone helps regulate the immune responses in men, including fighting viral infections, aside from being a key in developing sex organs and muscle growth. A low level of testosterone is linked to an increased risk of dying from flu and inflammation, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

Behind the study, the University of Mersin scientists believe that the coronavirus makes men more vulnerable to the illness and could have worse symptoms by hampering their immune system.

The journal of The Aging Male published a study that looked at 232 male patients tested positive for the virus. The participants were divided into three groups: intensive care patients, asymptomatic patients, and those who needed standard hospital care.

Coronavirus could infect testicles

COVID-19 may cause men's testicles to swell as well as to impair the ability to have children, according to doctors' warnings.Since the pandemic began, more than a dozen coronavirus symptoms were reported, including fever, loss of taste or smell, and dry cough.

However, medics in the U.S. told men to be extra careful of the virus after a patient was taken to A&E with swelling and 'discomfort' in scrotum. The patient is suffering from more common COVID-19 signs, such as fever and cough, for a week before going to the hospital. The doctors from San Antonio Uniformed Services Health Education Consortium in Texas stated that the virus damaged the patient's spermatocytes that keep sperm healthy. They warned of the damage that the coronavirus could cause and could have 'a future impact on male fertility'.

Similar reports of testicular pain in COVID patients have previously reported, but there has been no related research into the link.

The patient's doctors believe the coronavirus entered the body through ACE2 receptors on Leydig cells present in the testes.

Authors of the American Journal of Emergency Medicine admit that those cases are rare. But they want to raise awareness about them to help other medics determine the disease at an early junction and could trigger appropriate treatment, fertility follow-up, and quarantine.

The reported patients spent a night in the hospital prior to being discharged and prescribed painkillers and antibiotics. The patient's pain has eased slightly, but the case report did not indicate if his condition has improved in the weeks after.

Check these out:

Fauci Says Take Vitamin D If You're Deficient. How to Know If You Are?

Brain-Eating Amoeba Found in Texas City's Water Supply, Residents Warned

CA Wildfire Smoke Could Cause Premature Deaths, New Research Says
The Shannon Kelly Kane Scholarship was created by Shannons family and friends in coordination with NAfME to honor her exemplary life and her love of teaching music.

The National Association for Music Education (NAfME) honored Marissa Altendorfer of University of WisconsinRiver Falls and Brendon Culloton of University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign, as the recipients of the 2020 Shannon Kelly Kane Scholarship. Marissa and Brendon were presented the scholarships on October 1, 2020, in a virtual awards ceremony with NAfME leadership and members. The Shannon Kelly Kane Scholarship was created by Shannons family and friends in coordination with NAfME to honor her exemplary life and her love of teaching music. The scholarship award is open to current NAfME Collegiate members, who have been nominated for NAfME Collegiate Professional Achievement Recognition.

Marissa Altendorfer served as the President of the University of WisconsinRiver Falls (UWRF) NAfME Collegiate chapter. In June, Marissa was recognized with a 2020 NAfME Collegiate Professional Achievement Award. During her service at UWRF, she planned social events, conducted monthly meetings, and oversaw the chapters education initiatives. As a student leader for Wisconsins NAfME Student Advisory Council, Marissa was one of two student representatives on the Wisconsin Music Educators Association Advocacy Committee. Last summer, Altendorfer attended the 2019 NAfME Collegiate Advocacy Summit in Washington, DC, where she shared her story with national leaders in an effort to advocate for music education.

Given the can-do attitude that Marissa brought to her current field experiences for a College Education course, her mentor teacher recently contacted me requesting that Marissa come back to her school to student teach, shared Paul J. Budde, UWRF Assistant Professor of Music and Music Education Coordinator. This speaks volumes about the quality of Marissas work and who she is as a person. She clearly has passion for music educationand she is on track to be an outstanding teacher.

Brendon Culloton served as the President of the University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign (UI) NAfME Collegiate Chapter. He was recognized in June for a 2020 NAfME Collegiate Professional Achievement Award. While at UI, Brendon coordinated professional development events for his chapter members, inviting guest speakers to present on an array of topics and coordinating opportunities for members to teach in local schools. Brendon facilitated travel to the Illinois Music Educators Association state conference, where he presented his research project, Scratching, Beat Matching, and Phrase Catching: A DJing Workshop. He served on the School of Music Directors Advisory Board where he advocated for diversity in support of undergraduate music education students.

As a preservice teacher, he consistently demonstrates creative and thoughtful work both in his courses and when teaching in K12 settings, and his work ethic is a model for the UI music education students, shared Donna Gallo, UI Assistant Professor of Music Education. I believe he is also a model for preservice teachers and NAfME collegiate leaders across the country.

Learn about past recipients of the Shannon Kelly Kane Scholarship, NAfME Collegiate Chapter of Excellence Recognition, and NAfME Collegiate Professional Achievement Awards. To learn more about the NAfME Collegiate program, visit nafme.org/collegiate.

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National Association for Music Education, among the worlds largest arts education organizations, is the only association that addresses all aspects of music education. NAfME advocates at the local, state, and national levels; provides resources for teachers, parents, and administrators; hosts professional development events; and offers a variety of opportunities for students and teachers. The Association has supported music educators at all teaching levels for more than a century. With more than 60,000 members teaching millions of students nationwide, the organization is the national voice of music education in the United States.

Follow NAfME on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Infants delivered by cesarean section have an increased risk of developing asthma and allergies as babies and toddlers, probably because they don't get exposed to the microbiota in the mother's vagina and perineum during birth, negatively impacting how their immune systems develop. While a few studies have looked at whether swabbing a newborn's skin with vaginal fluid immediately after birth reduces this risk, a paper published October 1 in the journal Cell offers a more drastic way to expose newborns to their mother's microbiota: by diluting a small amount of their mother's feces in breast milk and feeding it to them just after birth. The researchers report that the proof-of-concept procedure appears to be safe and at three months resulted in the newborns having a microbial makeup that looks more similar to babies born vaginally than to those born by C-section.

"From a clinical point of view, this transfer of microbial material is happening during a vaginal delivery," says co-senior author Sture Andersson, of the Pediatric Research Center at the University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital in Finland. "This is a gift the mother gives to her baby."

At birth, the immune system is undeveloped, but once a baby begins living in the outside world, their immune system matures in response to microbial exposure. Although every person's microbiota is individualized, the overall patterns of which bacteria types colonize the gut are different in babies born vaginally and those born by C-section. These variations appear to make a difference in how the immune system learns to respond to outside stimuli, including potential allergens.

The mothers who took part in the study were recruited with leaflets placed in doctors' waiting rooms. About 30 women contacted the researchers to learn more, and 17 agreed to participate. Ten of them were found to have contraindications, such as a recent course of antibiotics or a potentially dangerous microbe, and ultimately seven mothers who were scheduled to have C-sections were enrolled.

The babies were given the fecal microbiota transplants (FMTs) shortly after birth. The mothers' fecal samples were collected three weeks beforehand. The babies stayed in the hospital for two days after the transplant to make sure there were no complications. The babies' own fecal microbiota was tested at birth (the meconium) and again at two days, one week, two weeks, three weeks, and three months. The babies also had blood work done two days after birth.

The investigators found that by three months of age, the microbiotas of the babies who received the FMTs were similar to those of babies born vaginally. They were different from those of babies born by C-section, as well as from their mothers' microbiotas. As a baseline for these comparisons, the researchers used data collected previously at the same hospital, as well as global datasets.

"This was not designed as a safety study, but we found it to be effective and supporting the concept of vertical transfer from mother to baby," says co-senior author Willem de Vos, of the Human Microbiome Research Program at the University of Helsinki and the Laboratory of Microbiology at Wageningen University in the Netherlands. "However, it's very important to tell people that this is not something they should try on their own. The samples have to be tested for safety and suitability."

Andersson notes that despite how unpalatable this research may seem to most people, the mothers who agreed to participate in the study were very motivated. One woman who was having twins was told the FMT could be giving to one baby, with the other one used as a sort of control. She declined, stating that she didn't want one of her babies to have an unfair advantage by receiving the transplant.

In future work, the researchers plan to study the development of the immune systems in C-section babies who receive FMTs and compare it to those who don't. Unlike the current study, which was observational, the future studies will have a control group and will be blinded to the mothers.

###

This work was supported by the Finland Academy of Science; the Pediatric Research Foundation, Finland; a Special Governmental Subsidy to Clinical Research; Finska Lakaresallskapet; and the SIAM Gravitation Grant and Spinoza Award of the Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research.

Cell, Korpela et al.: "Maternal Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in Cesarean-Born Infants Rapidly Restores Normal Gut Microbial Development: A Proof-of-Concept" https://www.cell.com/cell/fulltext/S0092-8674(20)31089-8

Cell (@CellCellPress), the flagship journal of Cell Press, is a bimonthly journal that publishes findings of unusual significance in any area of experimental biology, including but not limited to cell biology, molecular biology, neuroscience, immunology, virology and microbiology, cancer, human genetics, systems biology, signaling, and disease mechanisms and therapeutics. Visit: http://www.cell.com/cell. To receive Cell Press media alerts, contact press@cell.com.
(Natural News) During a Fox News Sunday interview, Arkansas Sen. Tom Cotton mentioned that Democrats threatened to riot in the streets and pack the courts after the Sept. 18 death of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. These radical things, as Sen. Cotton referred to them, became grounds for him and his Republican colleagues in the Senate to move forward without delay the voting process for the next judge nominated by President Donald Trump.

The president said that he would pick a woman to replace the late justice, who passed away at 87 due to pancreatic cancer. So far, two female judges are likely to be picked: Judge Amy Coney Barrett of the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals and Cuban-American Judge Barbara Lagoa of the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals. Magistrates appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court usually hold the position until they pass away or opt to retire.

Update: Amy Coney Barrett was the candidate who was picked, and this announcement came last Saturday.

The Arkansas senator was initially listed as a possible Supreme Court nominee alongside two fellow Senate Republicans  Texas Sen. Ted Cruz and Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley. Trump, however, stated that he will pick a woman as the next Supreme Court justice, disqualifying Cotton. Regardless, the senator pledged to cooperate with the president in confirming his nominee.

Cottons claims of riots triggered by the passing of Ginsburg were far from what transpired. According to an NBC News report, people mourning the death of Ginsberg gathered in a vigil at the steps of the Supreme Court building in Washington a day after she died. They left flowers, candles and handwritten notes as a tribute to the late magistrate who served on the bench for 27 years.

Another report by ABC7 talked about people suddenly singing with tears in their eyes during the vigil at the Supreme Court building. The peaceful crowd also broke out into minute-long applause for Ginsburg.

Will this be a repeat of what happened during Kavanaughs appointment?

Cotton warned of another Kavanaughs revenge in light of the upcoming Supreme Court justice appointment. According to the senator, four of his Democratic colleagues in the Senate who voted against the nomination of Justice Brett Kavanaugh in 2018 lost their re-election bids. A fifth Senate Democrat who voted in favor of the Trump appointee was re-elected in the midterm polls.

The president nominated Justice Kavanaugh in July 2018 following the retirement of then-Justice Anthony Kennedy. However, a number of women came forward and accused the judicial nominee of sexual misconduct  including psychology professor Christine Blasey Ford. Kavanaugh denied all these accusations, and the Senate confirmed his nomination to the bench in October of the same year with a 50-48 vote. (Related: Woman who accused Brett Kavanaugh of rape admits she totally made up her story to get attention.)

Ruth Bader Ginsburgs legacy of abortion

Some pro-choice advocates have looked up to Ginsburg as an icon of their struggle against the patriarchy. Pro-abortion group Planned Parenthood published a blog post on Sept. 20, honoring the late Supreme Court justice. The post highlighted, among others, Ginsburgs defense of abortion as a constitutional right during her confirmation hearings in 1993.

In addition, the post emphasized Ginsburgs ruling on the landmark Whole Womans Health v. Hellestedt case, where she ruled that two abortion restrictions in Texas were unconstitutional. According to Ginsburgs opinion on the case, women in desperate circumstances are forced to rely on unlicensed rogue practitioners to conduct abortions when their access to safe and legal abortion procedures at the cost of their health and safety.

However, abortion can be considered a violation of the Fourteenth Amendment as life is taken without due legal process  that of an innocent childs. In a 2019 op-ed for the Washington Times, author and public speaker Rebecca Hagelin argued that the right to life under the Constitution is not debatable and factors such as age, health, physical condition, intelligence, gender or race do not negate the fundamental right.

Ruth Bader Ginsburg died peacefully while surrounded by friends and familya stark contrast from the unborn children who were victims of abortion, a practice she vehemently defended as a right.

Find out more news about Ruth Bader Ginsburgs defense of murdering unborn babies at Evil.news.

Sources include:

TheGuardian.com

FoxNews.com

NBCNews.com

ABC7.com

USAToday.com

PlannedParenthoodAction.org

WashingtonTimes.com
As India-China border standoff continues, fresh border confrontation erupted between Indian and Chinese troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. In an attempt to counter Chinas aggressive moves, India is now positioning its indigenously designed and developed supersonic cruise missile BrahMos along with long-range sub-sonic cruise missile Nirbhay and short-range surface to air missile Akash to shield India on the front. Lets take a look at the details of these supersonic missiles that aim to strengthen combat abilities of our force and will play a major role while the situation escalates. (Representative Image: PTI)

BrahMos | On September 30 India successfully test-fired the surface-to-surface supersonic cruise missile BrahMos having a range of around 400 km featuring indigenous Booster and Airframe Section. The BrahMos cruise missile travels at a speed of Mach 2.8, nearly three times that of sound. The test-firing of the missile was carried out by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) off the coast of Balasore in Odisha. BrahMos Aerospace, an India-Russian joint venture, produces the supersonic cruise missile that can be launched from submarines, ships, aircraft, or from land platforms. This development by DRDOs scientists, showcasing enhanced operational capabilities and additional indigenous technologies, is seen as an achievement to boost Indias Atmanirbhar Bharat pledge. (Image: Reuters)

Nirbhay | India has deployed supersonic Nirbhay missile to defend the border at Xinjiang and Tibet regions against the Peoples Liberation Army (PLAs) deployment of stand-off weapon. Nirbhay, state-of-the-art missile, is a long-range sub-sonic cruise missile capable of deep penetration into adversary territory to strike high-value targets with precision. This missile can be launched from multiple platforms and can travel through its envisaged path at a speed of 0.7 mach. Nirbhay is capable of carrying conventional and nuclear warheads. The missile is claimed to have sea-skimming and loitering capability, i.e., it can go round a target and perform several maneuvers and then re-engage it. (Image: drdo.gov.in)
Cunningham attended Thornwood High School in South Holland, where he excelled as a multisport athlete, according to a village news release. He received an associate degree of fire science at Prairie State College, then later trained in Poland to become a chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear specialist for the Illinois Army National Guard. In October 2018, he received a Gold Seal from the South Cook County EMS medical director for his work in saving a patient on an EMS call.
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Northeast Ohio nurses -- from Cleveland Clinic, MetroHealth, University Hospitals and more -- have played a significant role during the coronavirus pandemic, risking their health to save lives and curb the spread of COVID-19.

As the pandemic stretches into fall, nurses deserve recognition for their work.

Everyone could use a boost during this time, but nurses especially deserve to be honored for their sacrifices. As part of the Homegrown Hero series, cleveland.com and the Plain Dealer are highlighting nurses for October.

We will select one nurse to be featured. But all nurse nominees will be recognized.

Read about Augusts Homegrown Hero: Yvonka Hall brings food, necessities to Cleveland families during coronavirus pandemic

From August through December, were asking Northeast Ohioans to nominate inspiring community members. And a winner will be selected for each of the remaining months. Septembers winner will be featured Sunday.

We are asking you to nominate a nurse who you believe is doing great work, whether at a hospital or in the community.

When I was recently asked to describe 2020, the word unprecedented immediately came to mind. Not just because I feel the word unprecedented has been overused, but challenge drives innovation and compassion, Advance Local Midwest Regional President Bradley Harmon said. With that said, Heroes come in all shapes and sizes and were here to recognize them. Most of them dont wear a cape or uniform, but all have one thing in commonthey are making our community a better place. Thats the sole purpose of the HomeGrown Hero Program.

You can nominate nurses here beginning Thursday, and nominations will end Oct. 25. Please describe in 200 words or less what the nurse is doing especially well during the pandemic. You can nominate one person per hour.
Mia Green, a 29 year old who fatally shot in Philadelphia on Monday, is the latest transgender woman killed in what the city calls an epidemic of violence against trans people.

NBC reports that during a Monday morning traffic stop, police found Green, who was shot in the neck, in the passenger seat of a car driven by Abdullah lbn El-Amin Jaamia, 28, who was charged with murder on Tuesday.

This latest act of violence against a member of our community is a somber reminder of the epidemic of violence against trans individuals, the city said in a statement from its Office of LGBT affairs. The countless painful losses experienced during this year aloneespecially within our transgender communities of color remind us that there is much work to be done in the pursuit of full equality, respect, and justice for us all.

The shocking case follows another killing earlier in the year in Philadelphia, when Dominique Remmie Fells, a black trans woman, was found floating dismembered in the Schuylkill River in West Philadelphia in June. Police are searching for a suspect, Akhenaton Jones, 36, in connection with the case.

Authorities in Puerto Rico also reported on Wednesday that a trans woman was fatally shot in the islands southwest, the sixth such killing this year, the Associated Press reports.

Trans people, particularly people of color, face disproportionate rates of violence across the country. According to the Human Rights Campaign, at least 28 trans and gender non-conforming people have been killed in 2020, which it cautions is likely lower than the true count, and a majority of them have been Black and Latinx. In 2019, 25 were killed, and 91 percent were black women, HRC says.

Because of interrelated issues like poverty, family rejection, and violence, trans people across America face high rates of mental health challenges and homelessness as well.

More than half of trans and nonbinary youth in 2020 seriously considered suicide, according to the Trevor Project, which says it conducted the largest U.S. LGTBQ mental health survey ever.

The Trump administration has pushed to roll back rules that punish homeless shelters which engage in gender or sexual identity discrimination. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Ben Carson, during a 2019 visit to the San Francisco HUD office, used offensive stereotypes to warn about big, hairy men to infiltrate womens homeless shelters.
The European Investment Bank, EIB, has said it plans to invest 78 million into expansion of Helwan Wastewater Treatment Plant in Egypt valued at  200 million, Arab Finance reports.

The lender in a statement, the online media notes, is expected to enhance the public health situation in Helwan district by improving water quality and reducing pollution.

The bank also added the project will generate jobs and create positive impacts in the area. The operation is expected to support climate action due to substantial greenhouse gas emissions savings and investments in sustainable water resources management in the context of water scarcity, it also said.

The pledge is in line with the Luxembourg-based financial institutions partnership with the Arab country. Early this year both sides signed a joint agreement outlining five points of cooperation during the coming period, including backing the funding of public and private sectors and expanding the funding for the projects of providing cleaning water, sewage system, energy, transport and SMEs, Arab Finance reported.

EIB committed to fund Egypts public and private sectors, in cooperation with the European Union and global funding institutions.
Nonprofit health plan's offerings include telehealth, acupuncture, chiropractic care; expands services in Northern California and Central Coast

OAKLAND, Calif., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Blue Shield of California today announced innovative benefits for 2021 Medicare Advantage plan offerings with expanded service areas to serve more beneficiaries and support their health and wellness needs.

Effective January 1, 2021, Blue Shield Medicare Advantage plan members will be able to enjoy key benefits1 such as:

Telehealth services by phone or video 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Non-Medicare covered acupuncture evaluation and treatment.

Non-Medicare covered chiropractic services including initial and subsequent examinations and treatment, X-rays and laboratory tests.

In addition to the annual wellness visit, one physical exam every 12 months that includes a comprehensive review of the member's medical and family history, detailed head-to-toe assessment and other services.

Home meal delivery service for members who are discharged from an inpatient hospital or skilled nursing facility  up to 22 meals and 10 snacks.

These benefits are in addition to services Blue Shield Medicare Advantage plan members already enjoy such as personal emergency response system, routine dental, hearing aids, and the SilverSneakers Fitness Program2.

"Our goal is to provide Medicare Advantage plan members with more benefits and innovative tools and services to create a personal, high-quality experience that helps them remain vibrant in their golden years," said Krista Bowers, general manager and vice president of Medicare for Blue Shield of California. "With our 2021 offerings, Blue Shield is delivering on our commitment to providing our Medicare Advantage plan members access to care that is worthy of our family and friends."

Northern California and San Joaquin Valley:

Blue Shield of California is expanding its Medicare Advantage plan service area in Santa Clara , San Joaquin , Stanislaus and Merced counties.



is expanding its Medicare Advantage plan service area in , , and counties. Together with AAA Northern California, Blue Shield has come up with three new Medicare Advantage Plans 3 - Blue Shield Inspire (HMO), Blue Shield Inspire (HMO D-SNP) and Blue Shield Inspire (PPO) in Northern California with independence and safe mobility 6 offerings that include:



- Blue Shield Inspire (HMO), Blue Shield Inspire (HMO D-SNP) and Blue Shield Inspire (PPO) in with independence and safe mobility offerings that include: Classic AAA Membership 4  a one-year membership with 24/7 AAA roadside assistance.

 a one-year membership with 24/7 AAA roadside assistance.

AAA Roadwise Driver  a course designed to help older adults refine their driving skills to become safer drivers.

 a designed to help older adults refine their driving skills to become safer drivers.

Educational Driving Resources  with a dedicated website containing resources and advice for drivers, such as AAA Roadwise Rx5  a tool designed to help you learn more about your medications and how they may affect your driving.

Southern California and Central Coast:

Blue Shield is expanding its Medicare Advantage plan service area to include all of San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties, which includes new network agreements with Sansum Clinic and Cottage Health in Santa Barbara county .

and counties, which includes new network agreements with Sansum Clinic and Cottage Health in . Starting January 1, 2021 , Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan Medicare Advantage HMO and HMO D-SNP members will become Blue Shield of California members. With this transition, members will be able to enjoy Blue Shield's robust digital customer service through its website and more choice in terms of products and services.

Medicare's Annual Election Period is October 15, 2020 to December 7, 2020. For more information about Blue Shield's Medicare offerings, please visit blueshieldcamedicare.com

About Blue Shield of California

Blue Shield of California strives to create a healthcare system worthy of its family and friends that is sustainably affordable. Blue Shield of California is a tax paying, nonprofit, independent member of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association with over four million members, 6,800 employees and more than $20 billion in annual revenue. Founded in 1939 in San Francisco and now headquartered in Oakland, Blue Shield of California and its affiliates provide health, dental, vision, Medicaid and Medicare healthcare service plans in California. The company has contributed more than $500 million to Blue Shield of California Foundation since 2002 to have an impact on California communities.

For more news about Blue Shield of California, please visit news.blueshieldca.com.

Or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook.

CONTACT: Mashi Nyssen

Blue Shield of California

510-607-2359

[email protected]

Benefits vary by plan and by service area. Refer to blueshieldca.com/medicare for complete details.

Benefits vary by plan and by service area. Refer to blueshieldca.com/medicare for complete details.

Effective January 1, 2021 , available in select counties in Northern California .

One year new or renewal Classic AAA Membership in 2021 valued at up to $56 /year. AAA Membership provided by AAA Northern California, Nevada & Utah .

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A Tory MSP has been kicked out of the debating chamber after accusing Nicola Sturgeon of having lied to the Scottish parliament in comments over the Alex Salmond inquiry.

Oliver Mundell was asked if he wanted to rephrase after receiving a telling off from the presiding officer over his choice of language.

Using words like lie are not appropriate in this chamber, Ken Macintosh said told the MSP, who had claimed the first minister had lied when promising the Scottish government's full co-operation with the inquiry into how harassment complaints against Mr Salmond were dealt with.

However, Mr Mundell said he would not withdraw the word after being rebuked for it.

He was then asked to leave the chamber by Mr Macintosh.

Holyrood's Committee on the Scottish Government Handling of Harassment Complaints has suggested it is facing "obstruction" as it seeks evidence about how the government handled complaints of sexual misconduct against Mr Salmond when he was first minister.

Committee convener Linda Fabiani claimed earlier this week the investigation is being "completely frustrated" because it is still waiting for information from the Scottish government, SNP chief executive and Ms Sturgeon's husband Peter Murrell, and Mr Salmond.

In a point of order on Wednesday, Mr Mundell suggested Ms Sturgeon had misled parliament when she said the inquiry "will be able to request whatever material they want, and I undertake today that we will provide whatever material they request" in January last year.

He said: "Will the presiding officer ask the first minister to explain why she lied to parliament?"

Mr Macintosh said Mr Mundell could raise the matter with the committee or ask the question during parliamentary debates.

When Mr Macintosh asked the Tory MSP to "apologise for using the term 'lied' in the chamber", Mr Mundell replied: "I do feel it is the appropriate word, and I can't find anything else that would express the sentiment."

After then being asked to rephrase his comments, the Conservative MSP for Dumfriesshire said: "I can't withdraw the word, no."

The presiding officer then asked him to leave.

Asked about the claim that Ms Sturgeon had misled parliament over the Scottish government's co-operation with the inquiry, a Scottish government spokeswoman said: "These claims are demonstrably false.

"The first minister has agreed to personally give evidence to the committee - and as we have made clear, not only is the government providing all possible material to the committee, we intend to initiate legal proceedings seeking to allow the release of further documents."

Additional reporting by Press Association
Several key provisions of Connecticut's sweeping police accountability law, signed in the wake of national protests against racial injustice and police brutality over the summer, go into effect Thursday.

Among the new rules that take effect are tighter restrictions on police searches, a duty to intervene if police witness another officer use excessive force and penalties for civilians who call in an incident based on race.

Other changes to policing brought by the law, including adjustments to qualified immunity that protect police from lawsuits over their conduct and further restrictions on the use of deadly force, go into effect next year.

Here's a closer look at the changes taking effect on Thursday:
As the South Dakota Department of Health reported a record day with 747 new cases and 13 new deaths, it also announced it would switch to weekly briefings on Wednesdays instead of biweekly briefings on Mondays and Thursdays.

When asked why the DOH would scale back its press availability during a record-setting spike of COVID-19 cases statewide, secretary Kim Malsam-Rysdon said "we remain committed to providing public information and information to the media" and asked press to continue reaching out through email and other interviews.

"We just need to manage our resources, and feel we can more than accommodate the media with a once-a-week briefing," she said. "If things change and we need to change that schedule, we'll certainly look at that."

The DOH said it reported a large amount of positive tests Thursday because of an error in their system. State epidemiologist Joshua Clayton said 502 of the positives came from Thursday, while another 245 results came from previous days of testing.

Clayton said what South Dakota is experiencing now is what we had been concerned about a little bit when we initially had COVID-19 in multiple states, which is larger, wider community spread across all parts of the state.

A quality assurance process determined the erroneous reporting, Malsam-Rysdon said. A change was made to a file folder where the DOH takes in reports from health care providers, and some reports from out-of-state labs that were held in that file werent pushed to their website in time, she said.

Thursdays report of 747 positives from 9,923 new tests is a positive rate of 7.5%. In Pennington County over the last seven days, 314 new cases have been reported for a rate of 25.4%.

Of the 13 people whose deaths were reported on Thursday, the DOH reported two were from Bennett County, while others were residents of Beadle, Brule, Clay, Codington, Custer, Haakon, Hanson, Minnehaha, Tripp, Turner and Union counties. The states COVID-19 death toll rose to 236.

Twenty-eight people were newly hospitalized Thursday, while 560 people were newly recovered from COVID-19.

When asked if the DOH could provide location-specific hospital capacity data, Malsam-Rysdon said the DOH is working on an update to its website next week that will have more regional data.

DOH officials provided data in a call with health care providers Thursday morning that shows hospitalization rates for each age group. They are:

Younger than five years old: 2.8%

Age 5-18: 0.8%

19-29: 1.7%

30-39: 4%

40-49: 5.1%

50-59: 9%

60-69: 13.9%

70-79: 26.5%

80 and older: 32.5%

As many as 110 people have recovered from COVID-19 after an outbreak at the womens prison where 197 inmates and staff tested positive, Clayton said, noting the numbers he provides dont account for the latest round of mass testing which reported 29 additional positive tests.

The DOC reported Thursday that it conducted a mass-testing event on one housing unit with 87 inmates. 29 tested positive while another 58 tested negative. 216 inmates in Pierre have tested positive and 117 have recovered.

Malsam-Rysdon said the health care center in the prison has been able to treat some inmates. One inmate had to be hospitalized but has since recovered, she said.

The DOC and the states tribes will be part of the next round of sentinel surveillance testing that will begin in mid-October, the DOH said. Sentinel surveillance testing involves testing a random percentage of asymptomatic people in order to find any COVID-19 outbreaks at a given time.

As of Monday, the DOC reported one active inmate case and eight active employee cases for the Pennington County area. 25 employees have had a case, including 10 at the jail, 11 among law enforcement and four at the care campus.

21 inmates have had a case, including 12 who were positive after intake and nine positive upon intake. One detainee at the WSDJSC has been positive after intake, and 16 clients at the care campus have been referred to the shelter at intake.

At South Dakota Mines, President Jim Rankin emailed the campus Wednesday saying members of the COVID-19 task force were looking into group testing in the event there are spikes occurring in given areas of campus, such as a residence hall floor. The university would work with the DOH, Board of Regents, Monument Health and Lab Corps if necessary.

The states public universities report the following number of active COVID-19 cases as of noon Thursday:

South Dakota Mines: 4 students, 2 staff, 17 quarantined

Black Hills State University: 18 students, 0 staff, 82 quarantined

University of South Dakota: 17 students, 1 staff, 82 quarantined

South Dakota State University: 18 students, 3 staff, 86 quarantined

Dakota State University: 7 students, 1 staff, 68 quarantined

Northern State University: 8 students, 0 staff, 69 quarantined

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Edison, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/01/2020 -- A new business intelligence report released by HTF MI with title "COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) Industry Market Report-Development Trends, Threats, Opportunities and Competitive Landscape in 2020" is designed covering micro level of analysis by manufacturers and key business segments. The COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) Market survey analysis offers energetic visions to conclude and study market size, market hopes, and competitive surroundings. The research is derived through primary and secondary statistics sources and it comprises both qualitative and quantitative detailing. Some of the key players profiled in the study are Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Denel Dynamics, Israel Aerospace Industries, BAE Systems, Dassault Aviation, Boeing & Elbit Systems.



What's keeping Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Denel Dynamics, Israel Aerospace Industries, BAE Systems, Dassault Aviation, Boeing & Elbit Systems Ahead in the Market? Benchmark yourself with the strategic moves and findings recently released by HTF MI



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If you are involved in the COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) industry or aim to be, then this study will provide you inclusive point of view. It's vital you keep your market knowledge up to date segmented by Applications [For Transportation, For Fighting & For Rescue], Product Types [, Medium-altitude UCAVs, High-altitude UCAVs & Other] and major players. If you have a different set of players/manufacturers according to geography or needs regional or country segmented reports we can provide customization according to your requirement.



This study mainly helps understand which market segments or Region or Country they should focus in coming years to channelize their efforts and investments to maximize growth and profitability. The report presents the market competitive landscape and a consistent in depth analysis of the major vendor/key players in the market along with impact of economic slowdown due to COVID.



Furthermore, the years considered for the study are as follows:

Historical year  2014-2019

Base year  2019

Forecast period**  2020 to 2026 [** unless otherwise stated]



**Moreover, it will also include the opportunities available in micro markets for stakeholders to invest, detailed analysis of competitive landscape and product services of key players.



Enquire for customization in Report @: https://www.htfmarketreport.com/enquiry-before-buy/2866715-covid-19-outbreak-global-unmanned-combat-aerial-vehicle



The titled segments and sub-section of the market are illuminated below:

The Study Explore the Product Types of COVID-19 Outbreak- Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) Market: , Medium-altitude UCAVs, High-altitude UCAVs & Other



Key Applications/end-users of COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV)Market: For Transportation, For Fighting & For Rescue



Top Players in the Market are: Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Denel Dynamics, Israel Aerospace Industries, BAE Systems, Dassault Aviation, Boeing & Elbit Systems



Region Included are: North America (Covered in Chapter 7 and 14), United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe (Covered in Chapter 8 and 14), Germany, UK, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, Others, Asia-Pacific (Covered in Chapter 9 and 14), China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, India, Southeast Asia, Others, Middle East and Africa (Covered in Chapter 10 and 14), Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa, Others, South America (Covered in Chapter 11 and 14), Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Chile & Others



Important Features that are under offering & key highlights of the report:

 Detailed overview of COVID-19 Outbreak- Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) market

 Changing market dynamics of the industry

 In-depth market segmentation by Type, Application etc

 Historical, current and projected market size in terms of volume and value

 Recent industry trends and developments

 Competitive landscape of COVID-19 Outbreak- Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) market

 Strategies of key players and product offerings

 Potential and niche segments/regions exhibiting promising growth

 A neutral perspective towards COVID-19 Outbreak- Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) market performance

 Market players information to sustain and enhance their footprint



Read Detailed Index of full Research Study at @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/reports/2866715-covid-19-outbreak-global-unmanned-combat-aerial-vehicle



Major Highlights of TOC:

Chapter One: COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) Market Industry Overview

1.1 COVID-19 Outbreak- Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) Industry

1.1.1 Overview

1.1.2 Products of Major Companies

1.2 COVID-19 Outbreak- Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) Market Segment

1.2.1 Industry Chain

1.2.2 Consumer Distribution

1.3 Price & Cost Overview



Chapter Two: COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) Market Demand

2.1 Segment Overview

2.1.1 APPLICATION 1

2.1.2 APPLICATION 2

2.1.3 Other

2.2 COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) Market Size by Demand

2.3 COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) Market Forecast by Demand



Chapter Three: COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) Market by Type

3.1 By Type

3.1.1 TYPE 1

3.1.2 TYPE 2

3.2 COVID-19 Outbreak- Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) Market Size by Type

3.3 COVID-19 Outbreak- Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) Market Forecast by Type



Chapter Four: Major Region of COVID-19 Outbreak- Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) Market

4.1 COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) Sales

4.2 COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) Revenue & market share



Chapter Five: Major Companies List



Chapter Six: Conclusion



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Key questions answered

- What impact does COVID-19 have made on COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) Market Growth & Sizing?

- Who are the Leading key players and what are their Key Business plans in the COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) market?

- What are the key concerns of the five forces analysis of the COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) market?

- What are different prospects and threats faced by the dealers in the COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) market?

- What are the strengths and weaknesses of the key vendors?



Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report version like North America, Europe or Asia.



About HTF Market Report

HTF Market Report is a wholly owned brand of HTF market Intelligence Consulting Private Limited. HTF Market Report global research and market intelligence consulting organization is uniquely positioned to not only identify growth opportunities but to also empower and inspire you to create visionary growth strategies for futures, enabled by our extraordinary depth and breadth of thought leadership, research, tools, events and experience that assist you for making goals into a reality. Our understanding of the interplay between industry convergence, Mega Trends, technologies and market trends provides our clients with new business models and expansion opportunities. We are focused on identifying the "Accurate Forecast" in every industry we cover so our clients can reap the benefits of being early market entrants and can accomplish their "Goals & Objectives".



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The US Food and Drug Administration has broadened its investigation of a serious illness in AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine study and will look at data from earlier trials of similar vaccines developed by the same scientists, three sources familiar with the details told Reuters.

AstraZeneca's large, late-stage US trial has remained on hold since September 6, after a study participant in Britain fell ill with what was believed to be a rare spinal inflammatory disorder called transverse myelitis.

Australian regulators will be watching the progress of AstraZeneca's vaccine development closely given the government has brokered a deal for biotechnology giant CSL to make 30 million doses of the product in Melbourne if it works.

Safety reviews of coronavirus vaccine candidates will be slowed by the FDA. Credit:AP

The widened scope of the FDA probe raises the likelihood of additional delays for what has been one of the most advanced COVID-19 vaccine candidates in development. The requested data was expected to arrive this week, after which the FDA would need time to analyse it, two of the sources said.
An investigator has said she is '99 percent convinced' that a mystery photo taken of a dead man shows Abraham Lincoln hours after he was assassinated in 1865.

A new Discovery Channel documentary 'The Lost Lincoln', scheduled to air Sunday, shows experts examining a controversial photograph that has long divided opinion on its authenticity.

The 16th president of the US was shot in the head on April 14 1865 by actor John Wilkes Booth in a box at Ford's Theater in Washington, D.C, while he was watching the play 'Our American Cousin'.

Lincoln was taken to the boardinghouse across the street from the theater where he died early the following morning, with his death sending shockwaves around the world.

An investigator has said she is '99 percent convinced' that a mystery photo (part of it pictured) taken of a dead man shows Abraham Lincoln hours after he was assassinated in 1865

A new Discovery Channel documentary 'The Lost Lincoln', scheduled to air Sunday, shows experts examining a controversial photograph that has long divided opinion on its authenticity. Pictured the photo above

'The Lost Lincoln' explores whether a photo rumored to depict the dead president is a genuine or a fake.

The photo shows a gaunt-faced man with a beard, staring ahead lifelessly.

His right eye is bulging and appears to be disfigured from an unseen wound.

The show follows California investigator Whitny Braun as she spent two years examining the photo, including the help of facial recognition experts, medical experts, a ballistics expert, Lincoln scholars and descendants of the man said to have taken the photo.

There are only 130 known photos ever taken of the president.

In a trailer for the special, Braun says she is 99 percent convinced the photo is the real deal and that it is the 131st image of the president.

'In the world of authenticating, this is like finding the Holy Grail,' she says.

The special's producer, Archie Gips, agrees it makes too much sense for it not to be real.

The image was said to be taken by Henry Ulke, a professional photographer who lived in the boardinghouse where Lincoln was brought after being shot.

Ulke supposedly took the picture in secret after the president died and before his body was taken to the White House.

It was kept secret because Lincoln's secretary of war Edwin Stanton was strongly opposed to any images of the dead president.

Only one fuzzy photo is known to exist, taken from a distance when Lincoln's body was lying in state in New York.

The 16th president of the US was shot in the head on April 14 1865 by actor John Wilkes Booth in a box at Ford's Theater in Washington, D.C, while he was watching the play 'Our American Cousin'. A sketch of the murder above

Lincoln was taken to the boardinghouse across the street from the theater where he died early the following morning, with his death sending shockwaves around the world

The photo was quietly given to the descendants of Lincoln's mother Nancy Hanks in Illinois and in the 1980s was in the possession of Margaret Hanks, a second cousin once removed of the former president.

Before she died in 1986, she sold a collection of artifacts to Larry Davis, an Illinois auctioneer, including the controversial photo, which Gips said had a Post-it note saying 'Cousin Abe' stuck on it.

If the photo is genuine this would mark only the 131st image ever taken of the president.

Braun said she was convinced after ballistics showed the man's injuries match those Lincoln would have sustained in the shooting and after facial recognition found the man and Lincoln shared similar scars.

The ballistics expert - who is the investigator's father - showed how it was unlikely there would be an exit wound from the bullet fired into Lincoln's head.

The facial recognition experts said the man in the image had a slight scar under the lip consistent with one Lincoln had.

Ulke's descendants also explained how Henry Ulke specialized in 'death photos,' particularly ones with the eyes left open.

'It's a really important piece of history that's incredible,' Gips said.

'It's not what you'd expect. You'd expect to see blood pouring out of his eye. But you get a sense of eeriness. You don't get a shock value or disgust.'

Dr. Stanley Burns and Dr. Whitny Braun (right) looking at the photo in 'The Lost Lincoln'

The show follows California investigator Whitny Braun as she spent two years examining the photo, including the help of facial recognition experts, medical experts, a ballistics expert, Lincoln scholars and descendants of the man said to have taken the photo

Braun in the show. The image was said to be taken by Henry Ulke, a professional photographer who lived in the boardinghouse where Lincoln was brought after being shot

However there has been much debate over the image with other Lincoln experts unconvinced by its authenticity.

Skeptics say the photo doesn't look like the president did just before he died and that the type of photography was no longer widely used at the time.

Harold Holzer, whose 1984 book 'The Lincoln Image: Abraham Lincoln and the Popular Print' traced the 130 known photographs of the former president, is convinced the photo is a fraud.

'I've seen enough of these things to know that this is a whole lot of hysteria about something that is not Lincoln,' he said.

'It's not credible.'

Holzer said the photo does not match the last known photos of Lincoln.

In one of the last photographs of Lincoln taken alive, his once-full beard was wispy, almost a goatee whereas the man in the photo has a full beard.

Braun has defended this difference saying there is evidence the photo was retouched to add more facial hair and to color the cheeks.

Holzer also said Lincoln was stripped of his clothes to check for other wounds when he was brought to the boardinghouse, yet the man in the picture is wearing a shirt.

'Not every man with a beard photographed after 1861 was Abraham Lincoln,' he said.

'It's going to take a lot for me to take this seriously. It doesn't scan.'

He also said very few used the photography style used.

Skeptics say the photo doesn't look like the president did just before he died and that the type of photography was no longer widely used at the time. Lincoln in one of the known 130 pictures of him

The photo is an ambrotype - a process where a photo is created by using a glass negative on a dark background - something that was largely out of style by the mid-1860s.

Aside from debate around its authenticity, the photo and the documentary itself is also plagued by controversy.

The former owner of the photo Davis, who would not comment when reached by The Associated Press, has alleged in court papers that his ex-wife stole the ambrotype and sold it to an Illinois dentist Jerald Spolar.

Spolar's lawyer denied he bought stolen property and said he has spent several years trying to prove the photo is genuine.

Spolar is also suing Discovery to try to stop the show airing Sunday.

The dentist, who Braun said cold-called her two years ago to tell her about the image, is also suing the investigator saying she violated a non-disclosure agreement made when he showed her a copy of the image, and is attempting to profit off somebody else's property.

Braun said the image 'belongs to the American people' and should be in a museum.

'The Lost Lincoln' premieres Sunday October 4 at 9pm ET/PT on Discovery as part of the network's Undiscovered documentary series.
Mumbai: Indian state-owned lenders should consider focusing on regional languages for better customer service, especially in areas where people are not conversant with Hindi, said finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

Sitharaman was speaking on Thursday at the virtual launch of a uniform training programme, including modules on preventive vigilance, for induction and mid-level training for officers of public sector banks (PSBs).

She said that while banking recruitments allow candidates from across the country to join, there is a need for bankers to know the local language of area they are posted in.

In some pockets where Hindi does not work, we need to have a cadre of people who will have to understand the language of the state in which their first posting happens," said Sitharaman.

She said that officers of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) learn the language of the state cadre to which they get attached to and the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) also allows their cadres to choose one foreign language.

After all, if we want to compare ourselves to an all-India service, language is one of the things on which focus has to be given," said Sitharaman, adding that it is important for new recruits to voluntarily decide on one regional language in which they would want to specialise.

If you choose Hindi, very well, but if it is some other language, he or she should ideally be given an exposure in the state where that language is spoken, she said.

Of course, in the long-run this will have a bearing on recruitments also," she added.

The minister said bankers recruited from a particular state, should as much as possible, be deployed in that state. In case there is a surplus from that state, recruits can be moved to any other state.

If they are unable to speak the language, it is not an all-India service at all," said Sitharaman.

She explained that not being able to communicate in the local language strikes a discordant note, since at the branch level, bankers are constantly in touch with customers.

We cannot impose a particular language on them (customers). After all they are dealing in their own money and coming to you (bank) for business and if we cannot communicate with them like the way they should be, that will be a big handicap in our service," the minister told bankers, adding that banking services need to be professional, robust and sensitive to the people whose money it is handling.

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Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office in Ukraine and in the Trilateral Contact Group (TCG), Ambassador Heidi Grau after the regular meetings of the TCG and its Working Groups held through video conferencing, said that there was no positive impact on the activities of the TCG of the ceasefire regime on Donbas.

"The ceasefire in the conflict zone in east of Ukraine continues to be effective. This has a beneficial impact on the living conditions of the civilian population. However, this has not yet had a positive effect on the activity of the TCG; moreover, a lot of time was spent today on procedural issues," Grau said in the press statement after the regular TCG meeting on September 30.

She said that the Security Working Group, in addition to the overall situation in the conflict zone and the provision of local security guarantees for the repair of civilian infrastructure, discussed the "measures to strengthen the ceasefire" and, in particular, the functioning of the co-ordination mechanism for responding to ceasefire violations. Discussions on this issue will continue at the next meeting.

"The Humanitarian Working Group considered issues related to the mutual release and exchange of conflict-related detainees. The discussion did not bring results. It is unacceptable that political considerations are preconditions for resolving humanitarian issues," Grau said.

As regards preparations for the simultaneous opening of two new entry-exit checkpoints (EECPs) near the settlements of Zolote and Schastia in Luhansk region, the meeting participants confirmed that the work is proceeding as planned and that the EECPs will be opened as planned by November 10, 2020.

The focus of the Economic Working Group was on environmental problems and water supply issues across the line of contact in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions.

"Discussions in the Political Working Group on the Verkhovna Rada Resolution No. 795-IX on the appointment of regular local elections in 2020 did not allow to hold consultations on the agenda of the working group, in particular, the peculiarities of self-government in certain districts of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine (ORDLO), amnesty and the modalities of local elections in ORDLO," Grau said.
A man who cleaned the floors in one of Quebec's long-term care homes ravaged by COVID-19, contracted the virus, and is now facing deportation.



According to reports, the 39-year-old from Ivory Coast went in to work every day - cleaning the floors that housed the centres COVID-infected patients, according to his former roommate and friend, Amelia Orellana.

Change.org

Konate arrived in Canada in 2016 after being a victim of armed conflicts in Ivory Coast. He was recognized as a refugee by the Red Cross.

According to a HuffPost report, Mamadou Konate has been detained at an immigrant holding centre in Laval for more than a week. He is undocumented, meaning he doesnt have legal status in Canada.

According to court documents accessed by HuffPost, between 2004 and 2005, he was beaten, mistreated, perhaps even tortured, during his detention at the hands of rebel group Forces Nouvelles.

Solidarite avec Mamadou Konate, ange-gardien des #CHSLD qui risque de se faire deporter.



Merci de signer et de partager!https://t.co/IsAowsSJNc #polqc #polcan  Ismael Seck (@IsmaelSeck) September 27, 2020

His friend and roommate Amelia Orellana told reporters that he saw people dying every day at the start of the pandemic



She added that people like Mamadou do a lot more than cleaning the floor of the ward, they help look after elderly who are ignored, and care for their needs.

Also Read: Swedish Teen Refuses To Sit In Her Seat On A Flight, To Protest Deportation Of Afghani Migrant

Montreal City News

Amelia Orellana told Montreal City News, that a judge revised and upheld the decision to keep him in the detention centre, meaning Konate will remain there until he is deported.

Also Read: 'Insensitive, Cruel': Indian Woman In Coma Threatened With Forcible Deportation By UK Officials



They dont have a deportation date yet because of the logistical hurdles due to COVID, but if he isnt deported by October 19, he will have another hearing to see if there are any other options as he awaits deportation.

His supporters are asking for his immediate liberation. They are also demanding the suspension of his deportation notice, to allow the government time to re-evaluate his request for residency on humanitarian grounds.
The projects, a public/private partnership between the DNR and Pavilion Partners, led by Valparaiso businessman Chuck Williams, have raised the ire of Dunes Action representatives, who want to see the pavilion restored but without the planned bars and other revisions, and are against the use of beachfront property in a state park for a banquet center.
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By KEN RITTER

Associated Press

LAS VEGAS  A court on Wednesday approved a total of $800 million in payouts from casino company MGM Resorts International and its insurers to more than 4,400 relatives and victims of the Las Vegas Strip shooting that was the deadliest in recent U.S. history.

The action makes final a deal announced earlier this month and settles dozens of lawsuits on the eve of the third anniversary of the shooting that killed 58 people and injured more than 850 at an open-air concert near the Mandalay Bay resort.





. . .
Louisiana will get nearly $215 million in BP oil spill money for two projects planned to restore more than 4,600 acres of marsh and other habitat in the New Orleans area, Gov. John Bel Edwards said.

Work should begin next year on the projects, Edwards said in a news release Tuesday. The money is from BPs $8.8 billion settlement for natural resources damage caused by the blowout that killed 11 men and spewed more than 100 million gallons of oil into the Gulf of Mexico in 2010, leaving long-lasting effects.

Both are part of larger restoration plans, the group overseeing Louisianas share of that settlement noted.

Each project will set a record, said Chip Kline, president of Louisianas Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority.

He said the Lake Borgne project near Shell Beach in St. Bernard Parish will create more than 2,800 acres of marsh, making it the largest area ever bid by the agency. The Louisiana Trustee Implementation Group approved $114.7 million for the project.

This project will have immediate benefits to habitat for fish and birds by reinforcing the degrading southwestern shoreline of Lake Borgne and Lena Lagoon, St. Bernard Parish President Guy McInnis said. And we need all the natural marsh buffer we can build to lessen the damaging effects of tidal action and storm surge.

The $100.3 million Spanish Pass project, near Venice in Plaquemines Parish, will use an estimated 16 million cubic yards of dredged material to create about 132 acres of ridge and 1,700 acres of marsh. That will be the authoritys largest dredging volume so far, Kline said.

The Mississippi River created our parish and the many historic ridges of our landscape, said Plaquemines Parish President Kirk Lepine. These features protect against storm surge, reduce saltwater intrusion, provide key habitats and also help retain sediment. The marsh west of Venice has been in need of this level of attention for some time, and I know the people and businesses near Venice will appreciate this massive project and this tremendous investment.

The Oil Pollution Act settlement was part of a 2016 agreement totaling more than $20 billion. It was based partly on the judges estimate that the 87-day Deepwater Horizon spill spewed nearly 134 million gallons of crude into the Gulf, enough to fill the U.S. Capitol rotunda 13 times.

Federal experts estimated the total at more than 176 million gallons, while BP estimated 102 million gallons.

Edwards said the latest projects make up the fifth major restoration plan approved this year by trustees for Louisianas share of the $8.8 billion.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Louisiana Energy Oil Gas


The 31 farmer organisations that intensified their stir across Punjab against the Centres agriculture laws on Thursday are focusing on certain points that have emerged as the protest hotspots from where they want to take their fight forward. HT visits these sites to check what is happening on the ground.





Devi Dasspura, Amritsar

With members of the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee laying siege to the Amritsar-Delhi railway route for the eighth consecutive day on Thursday against the Centres agriculture bills, Devi Dasspura village of Amritsar district has turned into an epicentre of the rail roko agitation in the Majha region.

Nearly 18 km from the Amritsar city and 3km from Jandiala Guru town, Devi Dasspura, which has a considerable population of farmers, is situated along the National Highway-1. The farmers have also blocked the rail tracks in Tarn Taran and Gurdaspur districts of the region.

Led by Sarwan Singh Pandher, state general secretary of the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, the agitating farmers have pitched tents on both sides of the tracks. A makeshift stage has been set up with a public address system to address the protesters from time to time. A separate tent has been set up for a community kitchen (langar) where food is prepared and served by volunteers of the Kar Sewa and nihang organisations.

Besides plain water, sweet coloured water and shardai, a traditional beverage usually prepared with a variety of ingredients by nihangs, are served to the those from kiosks at the protest site.Also, vendors are seen selling matka kulfi and gol gappas etc.

Farmers from Gurdaspur and Tarn Taran districts are also coming to the village participate in the agitation.



Shambu, Patiala

Situated on the Punjab-Haryana interstate border, Shambu village in the Patiala district has turned into a major hotspot of farmer protests in the area. While 31 farmer organisations laid siege to the railway tracks on New Delhi-Rajpura line here on Thursday for an indefinite period, the village has been witnessing protests since September 23 against the farm legislations.

On September 20, the Youth Congress workers had organised a protest at nearby Dhabu after they were stopped by the Haryana Police from entering the neighbouring state. Three days later, hundreds of protesters led by Punjab MLAs Simarjeet Singh Bains and his brother Balwinder Singh Bains held a protest at Shambu as they were also denied entry into Haryana while taking out a procession to the national capital.

On September 25, thousands of farmers accompanied by social organisations and Punjabi artists staged a protest at the village, blocking the national highway throughout the day as part of their Punjab bandh call.

Not only farmers, the youth from rural areas of the nearby districts, particularly Patiala and Fatehgarh Sahib, joined farmers in huge numbers.

Harbhajan Singh Buttar, a Krantikari Kisan Union leader, said the protest site was chosen due to its proximity with the New Delhi- Jalandhar national highway.

With Haryana restricting the entry of farmers, protest at Shambu will give a clear message that if they dont allow us to move to Delhi, we will block the rail route and the national highway, he said.



Phillaur, Jalandhar

Hundreds of farmers owing allegiance to the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) and the Jamhuri Kisan Sabha on Thursday started the rail roko agitation and blocked the Phillaur railway junction in Jalandhar district in protest against the farm bills.

Farmers from Jalandhar, Kapurthala and the Malwa region gathered at the junction in the afternoon and announced to hold a protest for indefinite period asking the BJP led Union government to withdraw the farm bills and guarantee minimum support price (MSP) for crops.

A large number of farmers from SBS Nagar, Jalandhar, Phagwara and Goraya gathered and pitched tents on the railway track. Similar rail roko protests were witnessed at Doraha, Jagraon and Samrala in Ludhiana where farmers put their charpoys on the railway tracks.

Balbir Singh Rajewal, president of the BKU (Rajewal) said while the economy was completely in shambles, the farming sector was the only saving gracing. But the BJP government at the Centre wants to usurp this sector and hand it over to its crony capitalist friends. But the farmers in Punjab will not let this happen and fight till the time the laws are withdrawn, said Rajewal.

Surinder Singh, a farmer from Phagwara, said the Centre is trying to grab their land. The Narendra Modi-led government has betrayed the farmers. If this government was really concerned about the welfare of farmers, it should have promised MSP to farmers, he said.



Lehra Bega, Bathinda

A strong gathering of nearly 1,000 farmers led by a woman leader, Paramjit Kaur Pitho, from Thursday started an indefinite dharna at the toll plaza on National Highway-7 at Lehra Bega village in Bathinda district against the farm laws.

Activists of the Bhartiya Kisan Union (Ekta Ugraha) have put up tents forcing the agency collecting highway user fees to close the booths. Only one motorway was kept open on both sides and there was no toll plaza official to collect fee from vehicles.

The site, located about 20km from Bathinda city, also had women protesters.

BKU leader Paramjit said the site was chosen as a symbol to hit the corporate houses directly at their revenue points. Our activists have started staging a dharna at a Reliance Group-owned petrol pump a few meters from the toll plaza. The corporate houses are making inroads for the agriculture sector in connivance with the Central government, she said to a thunderous applause from the gathering.

The organisers have arranged a generator set to power pedestal fans and a public address system. During the lunchtime, the volunteers served the participants with chapati, pickle, lassi and tea at the dharna site.

Beant Singh Jethuke, another union leader, urged farmers to motivate fellow villagers to join the stir to press for a rollback of new laws.

(Inputs by Surjit Singh, Navrajdeep Singh, Mohit Khanna, Jatinder Mahal, Vishal Joshi)
Strict new restrictions were announced today in a bid to stop the spread of Covid-19 in the Derry City and Strabane District Council area.

After the local surge was discussed at a meeting of the Northern Ireland Executive, a raft of new measures were announced by First Minister Arlene Foster and Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill at a briefing in Stormont.

From next week, pubs, cafes, and restaurants in the local council area will only be allowed to offer takeaways or outdoor dining.

Hotels will only be allowed to provide services to their overnight guests and for wedding/funeral bookings.

All museums, galleries and cultural attractions will be closed.

Sports fixtures will be allowed to continued but spectators will be banned.

No organised indoor events will be allowed in community halls or other such venues.

People living in the local council area will be encouraged to work from home and to avoid unnecessary travel.

If people must travel, they are being urged not to use public transport.

People are also being asked not to visit the Derry and Strabane council area unless necessary.

The new restrictions will be in place for an initial period of two weeks, but Ms O'Neill said they would be reviewed on a weekly basis.

"This is an emergency and requires an emergency response," she said.

Schools and childcare centres in the local area will remain open and church services will continue.

Mrs Foster said the Executive had tried to take a 'measured' approach to the local surge in Covid-19 cases.

"This is by no means a lockdown," she said.

However, the First Minister said the Executive must 'act decisively' to contain the outbreak.

She said she understood that the new restrictions would come as a 'hammer blow' to local businesses affected but added that the Executive was looking at ways of providing financial support to these businesses.

The crackdown comes as the latest statistics show that the rate of positive Covid-19 cases has continued to increase in the Derry City and Strabane District Council area.

Figures released today by the Department of Health show that there have been 486 positive cases of the disease identified in the local council area from September 24 to September 30.

This is in comparison with 222 positive cases in the seven days beforehand from September 17 to September 23.

The rate of positives cases in Derry and Strabane is 322.6 per 100,000 people - more than double the rate in any of the other ten council areas in Northern Ireland.

It is also one of the highest rates of any area in the UK.

Foyle MP Colum Eastwood urged people to follow the new restrictions.

I know the last six months have been incredibly difficult," he said.

"Everyone has made immense personal sacrifices to keep themselves and their families safe.

"People have lost mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters to this virus and have given up the chance to say a proper goodbye in many cases.

People in the North West have been very good at following the public health advice, even when it appeared confusing or felt frustrating.

"But if were honest, the cautious attitude we all took at the start has slipped  people arent always wearing facemasks in shops, unnecessary journeys have become routine again and compliance is not as good as it should be.

"The hard truth is that unless people change their behaviour immediately, were going to lose more friends, neighbours and family members."

Mr Eastwood said the new restrictions will be challenging.

"People in our communities are naturally sociable, entrepreneurial and active.

"But they are absolutely necessary to relieve pressure on our health service and protect each other.

"Derry and Strabane has shown that it can step up when needed, it is now needed again and I know that people will do all that they can.

But this is a two way street. Government cannot restrict trading opportunities in the North West without additional support for businesses that will close and workers forced to be at home.

"I will be pressing very strongly for a support package to meet the needs of people in Derry and Strabane who are being asked to make more sacrifices.

The majority of the cases identified in the Derry and Strabane council area continue to involve people under the age of 40.

There have been 78 cases identified in the local council area among young people aged 19 or younger in the last seven days.

A total of 243 cases have been identified in people aged between 20 and 39.

There have been 128 cases in people aged between 40 and 59.

In the past week, there have been 32 positive Covid-19 cases identified among people aged between 60 and 79 in the Derry and Strabane area.

There has been five positive cases reported in people over the age of 80.

There are 12 people currently being treated for Covid-19 in Altnagelvin Hospital.

There has been a total of 4,928 tests carried out in the Derry and Strabane area over the period from September 22 to September 28.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 20:57:49|Editor: huaxia

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DHAKA, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Bangladesh Thursday again extended the time of educational institutions closure amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bangladesh's Ministry of Education said Thursday in a statement that the government extended the closure of all educational institutions till Oct. 31.

Previously the closure was extended in phases till Oct. 3.

Bangladeshi Education Minister Dipu Moni Wednesday said that the country's entire COVID-19 situation is not favourable for reopening educational institutions.

Bangladesh on March 16 first announced to close all the educational institutions in the country from March 17 in an effort to halt the spread of the COVID-19.

Since March 8, the virus has spread to nearly every Bangladeshi district and the total number rose to 364,987 with 5,272 deaths so far. Enditem
A Delaware judge has dismissed a lawsuit against USAA and others over its relationship with TrueCar Inc., which maintained an internet car-buying service for the San Antonio company.

Coincidentally, the judge issued his ruling Wednesday  the final day USAA operated the service before ending the relationship with TrueCar, based in Santa Monica, Calif.

Three TrueCar shareholders last year filed suit alleging company insiders and USAA sold TrueCar stock while possessing inside information about impending changes to USAAs car-buying service. USAA disputed the allegations.

We are pleased with the judges ruling, USAA spokesman Matthew Hartwig said in an email. A New York lawyer representing the shareholders didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.

The investors sued for breach of fiduciary duty and unjust enrichment, among other claims. The lawsuit was a derivative action, meaning shareholders brought the action on behalf of TrueCar.

The lawsuit was filed before USAA announced in February that it was ending the car-buying service effective today.

A message on the website today said USAA made the decision to end the service as part of an effort to simplify and streamline our business, focus on our core products, and deliver on our mission to facilitate the financial security of our members.

USAA provides insurance and financial services to roughly 13 million members, made up of current and former members of the military and their families.

It had been the largest source of user traffic among TrueCars affinity group marketing partners. Last year, customers bought more than 293,000 vehicles from TrueCar dealers via the car-buying site that it maintained for USAA. The sales represented 29 percent of all units purchased from TrueCar dealers.

USAA first partnered with TrueCar in 2007. Last year, USAA estimated its members purchased 1.5 million vehicles and saved more than $3 billion through TrueCar since the start of the partnership.

USAA also became TrueCars largest shareholder at one point, owning more than 20 percent of the stock. It marked the first time USAA had made a direct investment in a company.

The shareholder lawsuit alleged that USAA notified TrueCar at the start of 2017 that it was redesigning the car-buying website. The changes included warnings to USAA members about the cost of car ownership.

The shareholders alleged they were not told of the changes. When it was finally made public in late 2017, TrueCars stock plunged 35 percent, they said.

Later that year, the shareholders claimed, USAA sold 26 percent of its TrueCar holdings as part of a stock offering, realizing $51.7 million in proceeds.

The shareholders argued USAA owed fiduciary duties to TrueCar. But Delaware Court of Chancery Chancellor Andre G. Bouchard ruled that a stockholder owes fiduciary duties if it holds less than 50 percent of the voting power of the corporation but exercises control over its business affairs.

Here, the complaint does not allege sufficient facts to show that USAA exercised control over the business affairs of the corporation or that any director was controlled by or beholden to USAA, Bouchard ruled.

Patrick Danner Patrick Danner covers banking, insurance, business litigation and bankruptcies. To read more from Patrick, become a subscriber. pdanner@express-news.net | Twitter: @AlamoPD
Exposure to disinfectants strongly linked to respiratory problems equivalent to smoking a pack a day for 10 to 20 years

Those consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic response may turn out to be worse for many people than the disease itself. Experts have predicted a coming mental health crisis in the United States, as Americans struggle with financial insecurity, job losses, social isolation, and fears about returning to public life. Privacy concerns also continue to emerge, as contact tracing apps and other methods of surveillance morph into the new normal.

Unchecked disinfection procedures, including those recommended by public health agencies, are another major concern. Prior to the pandemic, chemical disinfectants had been linked to health problems, but the accelerated pace at which these toxic chemicals are now being used is causing unprecedented levels of exposurewith unknown consequences to human health.

List N Disinfectants May Not Be Proven Safe for Humans

In response to COVID-19, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released List N, which is a list of about 400 disinfectants that meet the EPAs criteria for use against SARS-CoV-2. To meet the criteria, the disinfectants must demonstrate effectiveness against a harder-to-kill virus or demonstrate efficacy against a human coronavirus similar to SARS-CoV-2.

This doesnt mean that they have been approved because theyre considered safe with regard to human health, exposure scientist Lesliam Quiros-Alcala, an assistant professor at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, told Bloomberg. While studies on many of the chemicals are limited, some have been linked to asthma and other respiratory conditions, reproductive effects, and neurological and dermatological problems.

Exposure to disinfectants and cleaning products has long been linked to health risks. A 2019 cohort study of 73, 262 U.S. female nurses found exposure to cleaning chemicals at work was associated with a 25 percent to 38 percent increased risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This included disinfectants with the active ingredients glutaraldehyde and quaternary ammonium compounds, variants of which are included on the EPAs List N.

Research published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine also found that women responsible for cleaning at home, or who worked as house cleaners, had accelerated declines in lung function and impaired long-term respiratory health 10 to 20 years after cleaning activities.

Exposures related to cleaning activities may constitute a risk to long-term respiratory health, the study concluded, with researchers stating that the damage to respiratory function for women cleaners was similar to smoking a pack of cigarettes every day for 10 to 20 years.

The effect size was comparable to the effect size related to 10-20 pack-years of tobacco smoking, they wrote. One pack-year is equivalent to smoking 20 cigarettes (one pack) per day for one year. Other common symptoms that can occur from exposure to chemical disinfectants include nausea, eye irritation, and headaches.

Ramped Up Disinfecting a Hazardous Proposition

Health risks likely increase with increased levels of disinfectant exposure, making coronavirus disinfectants particularly risky due to the high frequency of application.

The EPA, in their guidance for cleaning and disinfecting public spaces and homes against COVID-19, recommends surfaces frequently touched by multiple people, such as door handles, desks, faucets, and light switches, be disinfected at least daily, with certain surfaces, such as shopping carts and sale keypads, being disinfected more often, including before each use.

Speaking with Bloomberg, Rich Feczko, national director of systems, standards and innovation at Crothall Healthcare, said the pace at which the company is cleaning hundreds of hospitals has accelerated. Our frequencies have ramped up in public places like lobbies and elevators to 68 times per day, with restrooms cleaned every two hours.

This is a hazardous proposition, immunologist and allergist Dr. Claudia Miller told the news outlet. Cleaners tend to go in with hugely toxic chemicals. Were creating another problem for a whole group of people, and Im not sure were actually controlling infections.

Spraying Disinfectants May Be Especially Dangerous

Adding to the problem is the way some of the disinfectants are being applied. Using sprayers that aerosolized disinfectants is becoming increasingly popular during the pandemic, as it allows cleaners to cover far more space in a shorter period of time. Electrostatic sprayers also add a positive charge so the chemicals stick to surfaces.

Not only have the risks of aerosolized disinfectants not been explored, but most of the disinfectants on List N have not been approved for aerosolizing, misting, or fogging. Further, its likely that spraying the chemicals poses increased inhalation risks, as it generates micro-particles and possibly even smaller nanoparticles, which are absorbed into the body faster and in greater quantities than larger particles.

The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) issued a health alert bulletin that fogging ambulances with toxic disinfectants may cause illness after four emergency medical technicians were diagnosed with work-related asthma.

Fogging is not recommended in ambulances, NJDOH warned. Often, the active ingredients are respiratory irritants and sensitizers and include chemicals such as, chlorine, phenol, quaternary ammonium compounds (quats), alcohols, or hydrogen peroxide compounds (listed in decreasing order of toxicity).

The World Health Organization (WHO) similarly warned: In indoor spaces, routine application of disinfectants to surfaces via spraying is not recommended for COVID-19. If disinfectants are to be applied, these should be via a cloth or wipe which is soaked in the disinfectant. Despite this, industrial cleaning companies are moving to use spraying technologies once reserved for hospitals in school busses.

If we can spray it in a Hersheys food plant or at a hospital, we can certainly spray it on a school bus, Bob Gorski, president of cleaning company Merrick Group, told Bloomberg. In several places around the world, including major cities and popular public areas, such as Turkeys Grand Bazaar, clouds of disinfectants are even being dispersed into the sky via drones, even though experts have warned the practice likely is not effective and could be toxic to humans.

When it comes to chemical disinfectants, reducing your exposure is wise, especially if theyre being used in an enclosed space such as a vehicle, elevator, or high-rise building with poor circulation. For times when cleaning is necessary, there are many natural methods available for cleaning purposes, as well as safer disinfectants such as ultraviolet light. As it stands, however, the aggressive disinfection procedures being implemented in the name of COVID-19 could end up causing far more harm than good.

The GMI Research Group is dedicated to investigating the most important health and environmental issues of the day. Special emphasis will be placed on environmental health. Our focused and deep research will explore the many ways in which the present condition of the human body directly reflects the true state of the ambient environment. This work is reproduced and distributed with the permission of GreenMedInfo LLC. Sign up for the newsletter at GreenmedInfo.health
He landed his first movie role at just four years old - and already schoolboy Daniel Lamont has made his red carpet debut.

Perched on the shoulders of co-star and onscreen dad, Grantchester's James Norton, the Ballymena youngster stole the show at 77th Venice Film Festival last month where the pair's film Nowhere Special had its first screening.

Set in Belfast, the film tells the story of single dad John, who has been given just months to live, and his three-year-old son Michael as they prepare to say their goodbyes.

"It's a beautiful film," says Daniel's mum, Kasia. "Before we agreed for Daniel to take part we got to read the script to make sure we were happy with it. It was beautiful. We would never have wanted him to be part of anything we didn't really love - and we love this film because it's able to teach people something about life."

Daniel's starring role in the film, and the transformation of his family's life over the course of a year, came about entirely by accident.

Expand Close Star role: Daniel Lamont with sister Erin, mum Kasia and dad Geoffrey Stephen Hamilton / Facebook

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Whatsapp Star role: Daniel Lamont with sister Erin, mum Kasia and dad Geoffrey

Mum Kasia, who works for Santander, stumbled upon a call-out for child actors on Facebook in June 2019.

"I wasn't going to do anything about it," recalls Kasia (34). "But when I told my daughter Erin I'd seen it she said, just send his picture in. She said I might as well. The ad had said that ideally they were looking for identical twin boys, so I didn't think he'd have a chance but Erin, who was nine at the time, was and still is fascinated with the industry so I thought it would be interesting to see how it all worked."

And, recalls Kasia, just a week before she saw the ad, little Daniel had made an impact with his first acting role - in his end of term show at playschool.

"The teachers told me he was great," she says. "They said it was amazing how well he was able to focus throughout the whole thing so when I saw the ad and after chatting to Erin about it, I just sent his picture in. I didn't give it a huge amount of thought at that point, I'll be honest. I didn't even tell my husband Geoffrey because I didn't imagine for a second it would end up how it did."

But just a week later, Kasia received a call that would transform her family's life - when Daniel was asked to come for a casting session.

"Even then I was still convinced it would just be a fun day out for the kids, so I didn't tell Geoffrey because I didn't think it would happen," she says. "The ad had specifically asked for identical twins, so I didn't think we had a chance. When it came to the day of the casting, I told Daniel we'd go to the toy shop on the way home, and off we went to Belfast."

That night, after the casting session, Kasia confessed all to Geoffrey (39), who took the news in his stride.

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"He thought the same as me, that it was a bit of excitement for the kids during the holidays," she recalls.

But within days, the family received an email to say the film's makers were impressed with Daniel - and that they'd like to see him again.

"We suddenly thought, oh this is actually quite serious," says Kasia. "This time we all went to Belfast with Daniel for the casting."

Things quickly went up a notch once again, when on Geoffrey's birthday on July 8, the couple got a call to say director Uberto Pasolini had seen tapes of Daniel and was coming to Belfast to meet him, along with actor James (35).

Expand Close Daniel Lamont with James Norton Stephen Hamilton / Facebook

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Whatsapp Daniel Lamont with James Norton

"It all got quite real then," says Kasia. "Daniel was about to start P1 in just a few weeks' time, and we were told filming would take at least six and a half weeks. We wondered is this the right thing to do with him being such a small child.

"But by this stage, Daniel was dead set on doing it. He had loved the casting sessions and just wanted to keep going back."

By the time of the meeting with the director, who also wrote the film and co-produced it along with local man Chris Martin, Kasia believes it wasn't just Daniel the producers were casting. "I think by that stage, it was the whole family they were assessing," she says.

"Right through the meeting we were bombarding Uberto with questions about how it would all work, while Daniel played with James and the producers. We said it was important for Daniel to be there for his first day in P1, and explained that we didn't want to disrupt our family life too much because those moments, above all, are what's important for our son's childhood.

"In the end I think that helped. I think they could see we weren't trying to push Daniel in any way and that doing the movie was very much his choice."

With a trip to Belfast Zoo planned for that afternoon, the family even then were doubtful Daniel's journey would go much further.

But a few days later, as they made their way across the north coast for a camping trip, Kasia's phone rang.

"My hand was shaking, and the signal in the car was terrible," she remembers. "But the girl said, I hope you're all well, and I'd like to offer Daniel the role in the movie. Even now I feel butterflies remembering it, and we were invited to meet the producers again, to read the script and to sign the contract."

After returning from their camping trip, a visit was arranged for actor James to visit the family's home along with one of the producers to allow them to spend some time with Daniel before filming for Nowhere Special, which received funding from Northern Ireland Screen, began.

"They were amazing with all the details," says Kasia. "There was a huge amount of care taken around child protection, Daniel had a doctor assigned to him and we were very assured that he would be taken care of.

"The first time James and the producer, Adam, came to the house, well I was cleaning everything in sight, of course. But very quickly, we realised they were very lovely and normal people. They weren't there to check how clean our windows were.

"I'm originally from Poland, and on one night I cooked a Polish dish and made a big chocolate cake for them, and on another visit we got a Chinese takeaway. We got to know James quite well, and he was fantastic with Daniel, and Erin, too."

With filming scheduled to take part across six and a half weeks, Kasia was given the time off work, and was with Daniel every day on set.

"For the first two weeks, all three of us went with him," she says. "It was a wonderful experience for all of us, and Erin loved it. Daniel has always really listened to her, and if he was feeling a bit tired or anything like that, she was able to motivate him every day like a little manager. She would sit behind Uberto with her own screen and the big headphones on, watching what was going on.

"We were stunned at how good Daniel was on screen. He was just four at the time, but he was able to focus extremely well."

And working alongside James, Kasia believes her son was able to mirror the actor's skills, switching convincingly from himself to his character when the cameras went on.

"It was as if within a single day he was able to just become Michael," she recalls. "In normal life, James is such a lovely, wonderful man, but when he's acting he's a completely different person.

"I think Daniel just picked up on it very quickly. He knew two quite different versions of James, the funny, silly James who played with him in the park, and then a totally different character. He just mirrored that, so when the camera rolled they were two different men.

"I cried so many times during the filming, it was very emotional to see my little boy performing so well."

And while the path ahead of little Daniel, who turned six last month, is certainly positive, his mother says his happiness will continue to be at the heart of all their choices in the future.

"The whole experience has been unbelievable," says Kasia. "The premiere in Venice was extraordinary, and all of us were treated like celebrities. We were taken by limousine to a speedboat across a lagoon to the festival, and we had the most amazing time.

"I remember Uberto asking Daniel at one point what he'd like to be when he grows up, and Daniel told him - Batman. Uberto told him, 'That's possible, you know'.

"But I have no idea or plans for what the children will do as they grow up. My mum never told me what I could or couldn't do. I know Daniel enjoyed the acting experience, I know he took to it very naturally, but we'd have to think about it very carefully if something else came up. Above all, we want him to have a happy childhood and to enjoy his life."

Nowhere Special received its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival last month
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An indigenous tribe on an Indonesian island who have uniquely piercing blue eyes due to a genetic fluke have been captured in a stunning set of photographs.

The Buton people are from Indonesia's 19th largest island, Buton Island, which is located in the southeast Sulawesi region of Indonesia.

They are divided into several smaller tribes of which some have a rare condition known as Waardenburg Syndrome, which affects pigmentation.

This leaves them with electric blue eyes, something that is extremely rare in Indonesia, where most people have dark hair and dark eyes.

A boy from indigenous tribe on Buton Island in Indonesia that have uniquely piercing blue eyes due to the hereditary Waardenburg syndrome poses with a leaf

The Waardenburg syndrome is a hereditary genetic mutation that is estimated to be present in a some form in 1 in 42,000 people

In addition to its sometimes startling effect on eye pigmentation, including causing eyes of different colours, Waardenburg syndrome can also lead to a loss of hearing

The Waardenburg syndrome is a hereditary genetic mutation that is estimated to be present in a some form in 1 in 42,000 people.

In addition to its sometimes startling effect on eye pigmentation, including causing eyes of different colours, it can also lead to a loss of hearing.

The Buton tribe was photographed by Korchnoi Pasaribu, a geologist from the capital of Jakarta, Indonesia, during a visit to the island on September 17.

The 38-year old photographer and father of two has been documenting life in rural Indonesia since September 2019, with a particular focus on its many tribes and cultural heritage.

The Buton tribe was photographed by Korchnoi Pasaribu, a geologist from the capital of Jakarta, Indonesia, during a visit on September 17, 2020. This image is titled Heal The World

Korchnoi Pasaribu has been documenting life in rural Indonesia since September 2019, with a particular focus on its many tribes and cultural heritage

With a size of 1,700 square miles, Buton Island is one of Indonesia's larger islands. Its population totals just under 450,000 people of which many live in small, isolated tribes

He said that photography is not his full-time profession, but rather his love and hobby.

Pasaribu said: 'I actually work as a geologist, at nickel mining, and photography is my hobby.'

He said he found the blue eyed tribe inspiring because they are so unique.

Pasaribu said: 'Blue eyes are unique and beautiful and they are my inspiration. Blue is the favourite eye colour for me.'

Pasaribu said he found the blue eyed tribe inspiring because they are so unique. He said: 'Blue eyes are unique and beautiful and they are my inspiration. Blue is the favourite eye colour for me'

The Buton people are from Indonesia's 19th largest island, Buton Island, which is located in the Southeast Sulawesi region of Indonesia

Indonesia is a vast archipelago with over 350 dialects and subcultures.

With a size of 1,700 square miles, Buton Island is one of Indonesia's larger islands.

Its population totals just under 450,000 people of which many live in small, isolated tribes.

The majority of the island is covered with rainforest.
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) is calling on Georgian authorities to guarantee the safety of journalists covering the parliamentary election campaign in the country after TV crews were attacked during clashes between pro-government and pro-opposition activists.



"We call on the leaders of the two parties to condemn these attacks and we urge the authorities to conduct an exhaustive and transparent investigation in order to identify those responsible," the Paris-based watchdog said in a statement on October 1, warning that the environment for journalists has "worsened" in the run-up to the October 31 vote.



RSF said at least five journalists covering the campaign were physically attacked in the southern town of Marneuli on September 29 during clashes between members of the ruling Georgian Dream party and the opposition United National Movement.



Jeyhun Muhamedali, one of four journalists with the opposition TV channel Mtavari Arkhi, was hospitalized with a head injury sustained during the violence, in which a camera and microphone were damaged, according to the group.



A camera operator with Georgia's public broadcaster GPB was also attacked and his camera smashed.



Georgian police have launched an investigation into the violence and into the obstruction of journalists' work.



"The state has an obligation to guarantee journalists' safety. With four weeks to go to a high-stakes election, impunity for those responsible for violence must be combatted," said Jeanne Cavelier, the head of RSF's Eastern Europe and Central Asia desk.



The South Caucasus country is ranked 60th out of 180 countries in RSF's 2020 World Press Freedom Index.
DALLAS, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Capital Alliance Corp., the Dallas office of Oaklins International Inc., announced today that Joseph A. DeSantis has been named managing director and practice leader. DeSantis will direct the firm's healthcare practice, with an initial emphasis on opportunities for ambulatory surgery centers.

The addition of DeSantis marks the third investment banker to join Capital Alliance in 2020.

Capital Alliance provides conflict-free, expert strategic consulting and independent M&A advice, with sought-after negotiating expertise in a wide range of industries, including healthcare, human resources, construction & engineering, energy and others.

DeSantis comes to Capital Alliance with over 20 years of experience in corporate finance and M&A for the healthcare and insurance sectors.

He was most recently director of financial planning and analysis at Tenet Healthcare, where he coordinated annual business planning. Before joining Tenet, he was with Aetna in positions of increasing responsibility. As director of corporate development, DeSantis led the M&A process for a $535 million acquisition. His career includes analyzing, negotiating and executing divestitures and acquisitions.

DeSantis holds a master's degree in business administration from Cornell University and a bachelor of science degree in physics from the United States Naval Academy. He served in the U.S. Navy as an aviator and completed his naval service as a visiting lecturer in the Naval Reserve Officer Training unit at Cornell.

"Joe is a seasoned professional with deep expertise in healthcare finance," said Bryan Livingston, managing partner and chief executive officer of Capital Alliance. "Joe expands our ability to serve healthcare clients, particularly owners of ambulatory surgical centers who are seeking strategic partnerships.

"With Joe's addition to the staff, and the hiring of Ty Rose and Russ Tolander earlier this year, Capital Alliance is well-staffed to assist clients in segments that we know well and that are quickly recovering from the coronavirus recession."

About Capital Alliance Corp. (www.cadallas.com)

Capital Alliance Corp. is a global mid-market investment banking firm, providing consulting services for mergers and acquisitions. The company represents client companies in a variety of markets, including healthcare, construction & engineering, human resource management, technology, energy and manufacturing. Since its founding in 1976, the privately held firm has completed more than 230 transactions with an aggregate transaction value in excess of $3 billion. For over three decades, Capital Alliance has been a member of Oaklins International, formerly M&A International, a membership organization of investment banking firms operating in the major economies of the world.

SOURCE Capital Alliance Corp.
The Executive has announced a range of new coronavirus restrictions for the Derry and Strabane council area.

First Minister Arlene Foster said Derry and Strabane were in an "urgent situation", but it was by "no means a lockdown".

She said the Executive had tried to balance the effect the restrictions would have on "lives and livelihoods".

The DUP leader said the area had gone from having some of the lowest number of cases in the UK to the highest.

Mrs Foster said the R rate in the area was 2 or higher.

The new localised restrictions in Derry and Strabane include:

Limiting hospitality outlets to outdoor dining, takeaways and deliveries, while hotels can only provide services to residents and those who have booked weddings and funeral teas. Wet pubs can serve customers outdoors only;

No organised indoor gatherings should take place in community halls or other similar venues (with exemptions in place for weddings, funerals, services of worship in places of worship, workplaces where working from home is not possible, educational settings, childcare services);



Indoor sports is limited to individual training only and no exercise classes are allowed;

There can also be no indoor gatherings where people from different households are mixed;

Organised outdoor gatherings are limited to 15 people and no spectators can attend sporting or other events and all museums, galleries and cultural attractions must close. Libraries can operate a call and collect service;

People are being asked to work from home where possible and to avoid any unnecessary travel, while people outside the area should not visit or travel for "unnecessary reasons".

Mrs Foster said people in the area are being asked to walk, travel or use private transport, shared only with members of their household where possible.

"If using public transport please follow social distancing and wear a mask," she said.

The First Minister acknowledged the news would be a "hammer blow" to businesses and said ministers were already working on how to support them.

Mrs Foster said there was also a need for "stronger enforcement of existing regulations" and Justice Minister Naomi Long would commence a "rapid review" of fines.

She warned those "thumbing their nose" at the restrictions that change was coming.

Read More

Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill said the situation in Derry and Strabane required the Executive to "intervene immediately".

The Sinn Fein vice-President said regulations would be introduced to bring the new restrictions into effect, but that people and businesses were being asked to comply "with immediate effect".

She said restrictions would be in place for an initial period of two weeks, but would be reviewed on a weekly basis.

Hospitality Ulster chief executive Colin Neill said the new restrictions was "a devastating blow to our sector at this critical time" and will lead to the closure of many businesses.

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood urged people to follow the new regulations.

"Derry and Strabane has shown that it can step up when needed, it is now needed again and I know that people will do all that they can," the Foyle MP said.

It comes after the Department of Health confirmed two further deaths in Northern Ireland as a result of Covid-19.

Both deaths occurred within the past 24 hours and it brings the death toll from the virus to 581.

There have been 259 new cases of Covid-19 diagnosed since Wednesday after 6,042 tests were carried out on 2,893 people.

Read More

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City of Columbus voters will have a chance to select who they think will be best suited for City Council Ward 4  incumbent John Lohr or newcomer Natasha Gonzalez.

Although new to the race, Gonzalez is a familiar face in the Columbus area as she was born and raised here.

I watched the town grow from something small into something that gets bigger and bigger, she said.

Gonzalez attended college in Norfolk and Wayne State. Shes currently an adult education instructor and a substitute teacher for three school districts  Columbus Public, Lakeview and Genoa.

Gonzalez is running as she said she would like to see more opportunities for low-income youth and more meaningful employment in Columbus. She would also like to support small businesses in the area.

I dont think there are many opportunities for low-income students to be involved in school and stuff like that. Thats one thing Id like to see  more opportunities for low-income youth, she said. And, also to bring more meaningful employment to Columbus. We have a great industrial area, but there are those younger than me who want to move out of Columbus because theyre wanting to be involved in something more than that.

Being a Columbus native and having an educational background is what makes her qualified as a council member, she said.

I do have a bachelors degree in political science in which I studied state and local politics and public administration, so I do have an idea of how our local government works, Gonzalez said. I would like to build upon my education. Im not saying Im not qualified but Id like the opportunity to continue learning  about what I can do to make a difference in my community and maybe state-wide.

Gonzalez said that she notices a group mentality in which members of a group, such as a board of directors, tend to agree with what everyone else is saying.

I would make sure Im making decisions of what I feel is best for my community, not for the entire group, she said.

Lohr was also born and raised in Columbus. Not counting a 12-year stint during which he attended college and served in the military, hes stayed in the area and is a former business owner.

Ive always felt public service, and I consider this to be public service, is a way to give back to the community, Lohr said. The community, Columbus, has been very good to us. We were in business for a long time, the business was successful and this is a way to give back to the community.

Through his time in Columbus, Lohr has also served on boards for the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce, the Northeast Nebraska Economic Development District and the library  among other things -- and has been serving on the executive board of the League of Nebraska Municipalities for 10 years.

Each of those things brings experience and knowledge to me which I can, in turn, impart onto the people of Columbus and have done, Lohr said.

Notably, Lohr was chairman of the hospitals board of directors when the current facility was established.

I went through that entire process of finding property and getting architects and building it  that was a great learning experience, he noted.

If re-elected, Lohr said he will focus on seeing current projects come to fruition, such as establishing more housing in Columbus, as well as researching a viaduct for 23rd Avenue. He noted that a 23rd Avenue viaduct had been discussed at one point but has since fallen wayside.

If its something they (residents) want and its funded, theres no reason why shouldnt build a 23rd Avenue viaduct, Lohr said.  ... There would not be a whistle coming from the trains from way east to town to way west of town, it would be just the engine noise, so to speak.

Additionally, he would continue to work on street, sewer and water improvements.

The general election is Nov. 3. Those wanting to request an early ballot can do so by calling the Platte County Election Commissioners Office at 402-563-4908.

Hannah Schrodt is the news editor of The Columbus Telegram. Reach her via email at hannah.schrodt@lee.net.

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It wouldnt surprise Christopher Morgan if more Americans sign up with Niagaras Democrats Abroad chapter after the first rowdy U.S. presidential debate.

The co-chair of the Niagara chapter said interest in voting in Novembers election was already up among Democrats living in Canada and the debate will push some people to act.

We saw there was actually more activity on our website last evening during the event, he said Wednesday, the day after the first debate between incumbent Republican President Donald Trump and Democrat nominee and former vice-president Joe Biden.

You could tell there was some growth and interest among Democrats.

Throughout the televised debate Tuesday, Trump was chastised by Fox News moderator Chris Wallace for interrupting Biden and himself and the debate was widely criticized for its chaotic and unruly nature. At one point, Biden told Trump to shut up.

Democrats Abroad Canada hosted a nationwide online viewing event so members like Morgan, a Niagara Falls resident from Buffalo, N.Y., could chat and break out into groups for discussions.

I thought it was generally off-base fully for what youd expect from political decorum and many times there was shouting over one another, Morgan said, adding he wasnt surprised by what he saw based on Trumps behaviour in the 2016 election and the past four years.

He said the debate felt chaotic and disorganized.

As far as the result, I dont think particularly that Trump helped himself or that Biden hurt himself.

The Niagara chapter has grown from just more than 300 members in August when it branched off from the Hamilton and Burlington chapter to more than 400 now.

Its main message has been telling the estimated 620,000 Americans living in Canada who may not know they have the right to vote in U.S. elections that they can by going to non-partisan website votefromabroad.org.

Its estimated less than six per cent of those eligible voters cast ballots in 2016, something Democrats Abroad are hoping changes dramatically. They say the number of eligible U.S. voters in Canada alone can make a difference in swing states.

Carl Krasnor, originally from Massachusetts and retired from Brock University, said he doesnt think the debate will move the needle much in terms of how people vote.

Everybody behaved the way we know they would behave or thought they would behave, said Krasnor, a member of the Niagara Democrats Abroad chapter who participated in the viewing event.

But while he wasnt surprised by what he saw, it didnt mean it wasnt distressing.

Just watching the behaviour of the guy thats running the country is enough to make people pretty sad, he said.

Thats the one thing Ive gotten from people Ive talked to. A lot of people couldnt sit through the whole thing because its such a testimony to where weve come.

Niagara Falls resident and chapter vice-president Joanne Smales review of the debate was more blunt.

I am in total agreement of vice-president Joe Biden in sharing Shut up, man. Thats my reaction. I have nothing more to say, said Smale, originally from Florida.

Ed Unger, co vice-chair of Democrats Abroad Canada in Toronto, said the organizations phone was ringing non-stop Wednesday morning.

Everybodys just aghast. And theyre saying weve got to stop him.

He said membership has seen double-digit increases across Canada for this election.

In Ungers view, the election is a crucial point in American history.

But while he said Canadians are well informed about American politics, it is only the American citizens living in Canada who have the power to vote, which is why Democrats Abroad is pushing the message that they can.

Were trying to save democracy, Unger said, adding if America loses it, it wont be good for anyone.

It wont be good for the U.S., it wont be good for Canada, it wont be good for the world. Period.

Republicans Overseas Canada does not have a local chapter and attempts to contact the national organization were not immediately successful Wednesday. A representative told the Toronto Star earlier this month that Republicans are not as well represented in Canada as Democrats and the organizations focus is on tax reform, a significant issue for Americans living abroad.
The for-sale ad appeared last week in an underground internet bazaar that specializes in selling stolen accounts and data. It was for access to a filched unemployment insurance claim in California that had been approved and offered benefits worth $17,550.

The black-market sale of jobless benefits is just one sign that the unemployment insurance system  the main artery for delivering financial assistance to laid-off workers  has been besieged during the coronavirus crisis by criminal networks intent on bilking the government out of hundreds of millions of dollars.

In California, fraud was so pervasive that officials have suspended processing jobless claims for two weeks to put new controls in place and reduce a bulging backlog.

The U.S. Labor Department recently made fraud detection a priority, dedicating $100 million to combat the problem. But several state officials and cybersecurity experts say some of the efforts have been misdirected, designed to uncover workers misrepresenting their eligibility instead of large-scale identity theft.
Chennai, Oct 1 : The Madras High Court on Thursday commented that the holy 'Bharathabhoomi' (India) has now turned into "a land of rapists" where a rape occurs every 15 minutes.

The court was hearing a case relating to migrant labour filed by advocate A.P. Suryaprakasam. At that point the advocate pointed to the rape of an Assamese migrant worker in Tiruppur district.

"I had pleaded with the court to provide shelter and care for the affected woman and also to direct the Director General of Police to set up a special investigation team headed by Inspector General, Coimbatore. I had also prayed to the court to direct the government to provide her with financial assistance under the victims' compensation scheme," Suryaprakasam told IANS.

While granting all his prayers, the court observed that "Bharathabhoomi", a holy land, has now become a land of rapists, where a rape occurs every 15 minutes.

Six persons had allegedly raped a 22-year-old migrant worker from Assam in Tiruppur district.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
MADISON, Wis. - President Donald Trump moved a planned western Wisconsin appearance to elsewhere in the state amid calls from a city mayor and the states governor, both Democrats, that he not hold a rally there due to a surge in coronavirus cases.

The director of the La Crosse airport said the event was cancelled due to a lease issue, not concerns over the coronavirus.

Wisconsin ranks third among states for per-capita increases in cases over the past two weeks. State health officials reported 2,887 newly confirmed cases on Thursday, a new daily record, along with 21 more deaths. The state has now seen 125,161 cases and 1,348 deaths since the pandemic began.

Trump replaced the La Crosse rally with one in Janesville about 175 miles away where the virus is not spreading quite as rapidly. Hes also holding a rally Saturday in Green Bay. Both will be outside at airports. Trumps decision to visit Janesville prompted authorities there to also request that Trump reconsider.

Both La Crosse and Green Bay have been identified as a red zone for community spread of COVID-19 by the White House Coronavirus Task Force. Janesville is not on the list.

The coronavirus task force report urged social distancing in red zones to the maximum degree possible. Trump rallies typically draw many thousands of people, who crowd closely together, shouting and cheering -- the vast majority without masks.

A political rally violated the terms of the La Crosse airports lease with Colgan Air Service, which planned to host the rally, airport director Ian Turner said.

The tenant was notified of this, disagreed with the City of La Crosse position, but opted not to host the event, Turner said in a statement. Kelly Colgan Hammen, president of the private air service where the rally was to be held, did not immediately return a message.

The tenant was notified of this, disagreed with the City of La Crosse position, but opted not to host the event, Turner said in a statement. He did not identify who the tenant was.

Trump made a similar move last month, changing his plans for large airport rallies in Nevada after local officials warned they would violate the states ban on gatherings of more than 50 people. There is no statewide limit on gatherings in Wisconsin after Republicans successfully challenged the Democratic governors safer at home order this spring.

State and local health officials in Wisconsin urged attendees to follow local guidelines but stopped short of asking Trump not to come.

A collaborative of health care organizations in La Crosse, including Gundersen Health System, Mayo Clinic Health System and La Crosse County, recommends that people avoid anyplace where people arent wearing masks or physical distancing. They also recommend limiting outdoor gatherings to no more than 100 people.

Masks and physical distancing should be required, according to guidance released Wednesday by the health collaborative. Venues should consider cancelling or rescheduling any large gatherings planned for the next 14 days.

As of Thursday, La Crosse County had reported 3,205 cases and three deaths. The state listed the activity level of COVID-19 as very high.

Brown County, where Green Bay is located, has had 9,796 cases and 66 deaths. The number of positive cases over the past two weeks was up 24%, according to the state Department of Health Services.

In Rock County, where Janesville is located, virus activity is listed as high, one level lower than Brown and La Crosse counties.

Rock County Board Chairwoman Kara Purviance said in a statement that the county is seeing its highest number of active cases yet, and she hoped Trump would reconsider. But if the rally proceeds, she said, she urges residents to follow social distancing guidelines and wear masks.

Democratic Gov. Tony Evers said he hoped Trump would cancel his visit to the state. If Trump holds a rally in Wisconsin he should insist his supporters wear masks and not let them in if they refuse, the governor said.

He can control this, Evers said.

Wisconsin Republican Party Chairman Andrew Hitt defended the president coming to Wisconsin, saying his supporters get energized by his in-person appearances.

Were going to take precautions, Hitt said. Were going to make sure we have masks, were going to encourage people to wear masks. ... We need to make sure were open and tell people, Look if you think youve been exposed please do not come.

___

Associated Press writer Todd Richmond contributed to this report.

___

This story has been corrected to reflect that the La Crosse airport director said the event was cancelled due to a lease issue rather than a legal issue.
NexusMods, a large platform and gathering place for modding PC games, has banned all content relating to the U.S. elections following a flood of troll content, saying "we've decided to wipe our hands clean of this mess." Not exactly headline news, no, but a reminder that the toxic behavior frequently seen (and blamed) on social media is pervasive even in niches where politics would seem to be completely irrelevant.

"Modding" (as in modifying) is the practice of creating new content for games that players can then install on their own, for example adding new levels or characters, or adjusting the interface or difficulty. NexusMods is one of the larger collections of such mods, and a lively community.

Unfortunately, even something as simple as a way to add decorative tapestries to Skyrim is a proxy political battleground, with numerous mods appearing to, for example, replace generic enemies in a game with Trump supporters or "rioters." Here's a screenshot from Reddit user Cipherx02, who noted that users were also filling the description fields with disinformation:

I blurred out one mod that used an image of a protester shot in Kenosha by Kyle Rittenhouse. Yes, they did!

In a post to the site's news page, the admins of NexusMods walk a fine line in expressing their frustration without espousing any political ideology apart from, perhaps, "anti-idiot":

Recently we have seen a spate of provocative and troll mods being uploaded based around current sociopolitical issues in the United States. As we get closer to the US election in November we expect this trend to increase as it did this time 4 years ago. Considering the low quality of the mods being uploaded, the polarising views they express and the fact that a small but vocal contingent of our users are seemingly not intelligent or grown up enough to be able to debate the issues without resorting to name calling and baseless accusations without proof (indicative of the wider issues plaguing our world at this time) we've decided to wipe our hands clean of this mess and invoke an outright ban on mods relating to sociopolitical issues in the United States. We have neither the time, the care or the wish to moderate such things. This ban will apply to all mods uploaded from the 28th of September onwards. We will review this restriction sometime after the next President of the United States has been inaugurated.

No doubt all over the web there are situations of this sort as ordinarily politically neutral spaces are infected by toxic discourse. Unlike Facebook and YouTube, however, smaller sites and communities don't have thousands of paid moderators or sophisticated machine learning tools to nip the problems in the bud.

As such, a total ban doesn't seem so much an overreaction, as the only reasonable reaction. As the election approaches (and likely well beyond that), it's probable that many small communities will have to draw a line in the sand or risk serious incidents such as doxing, threats and the unwelcome attentions of angry internet mobs.
According to NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine on Twitter, MEXT has just recently requested about $2.7 billion for the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency's very own 2021 funding. This huge budget request is by far the highest requested and highest granted resulting in about a 50% increase from the current budget. The NASA Administrator then thanked MEXT (or Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology) for actually seeking out the necessary funding for Japan to be able to support #Artemis.

pic.twitter.com/OYhGn6yez6 BREAKING: MEXT has requested roughly $2.7 billion USD for @JAXA_en 's 2021 funding. This annual budget request is the highest ever and, if granted, will result in a nearly 50% increase. We are grateful to MEXT for seeking the funding necessary for Japan to support #Artemis September 30, 2020

Canadian Space Agency Astronaut Joshua Kutryk retweeted this news saying that it is evidence that we are all currently living in truly inspirational times resulting in a truly "unlimited future". It was also stated by the Canadian Space Agency Astronaut that they do so as a generation that is likely to preside over a whole golden era of space exploration and opportunity.

News from Japan today. Evidence that we live in truly inspirational times with a truly unlimited future, and that we do so as the generation likely to preside over a golden era of exploration (and opportunity) in space. https://t.co/YKfz7wEKSY September 30, 2020

The support being received

The support of Japan to the Artemis project has shown an additional ally to NASA and should be beneficial for both parties. It was stated in some replies to the tweets that this could well be a move by Japan to make sure that US is able to accomplish the moon mission before China does. Although Japan failed to get to the moon, the country can still be supportive of NASA's movements towards finally advancing to the moon.

The Artemis program is said to be NASA's mission that will finally land the very first woman and also the next man on the Moon itself by the year 2024. This will be done using better innovative technologies in order to explore more of the whole lunar surface and maybe find out more than they have ever done before.

It was said that they will also collaborate with the upcoming commercial and international partners as well as establish a particular sustainable exploration that should be finished by the end of this decade. The next step would be for NASA to learn everything they can about the Moon in order to take their greatest leap in history yet, Mars!

Read Also: Rumor: Elon Musk Eyes Asteroid Mining of $700 Quintillion Worth of Space Gold with NASA

SpaceX's involvement in the Artemis mission

Aside from just NASA, Elon Musk himself, the founder and CEO of SpaceX, has expressed his passion in being able to take human beings all the way to Mars. Although admittedly it might take a long time from now, Elon Musk is definitely determined to accomplish what needs to be accomplished in order to send human beings to Mars and possibly even create a future Mars colony.

SpaceX and NASA also have another mission lined up in 2022 to explore the "golden asteroid" which is a known asteroid with about $700 quintillion in gold within it.

Read Also: UAE Plans to Land on the Moon on 2024 After India, Israel, and Japan Have Failed; Will Set up a Colony by 2117

This article is owned by Tech Times

Written by Urian Buenconsejo

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Actor Irrfan Khans wife Sutapa Sikdar has shared a long note on how she looks at the insider-outsider debate that has been raging in the industry for a few years now. Citing her own example as an amalgamation of varied cultures and ethos, Sutapa said her late husband Irrfan did not seek approval of anyone in Bollywood, neither did he sulk or gossip when not invited to parties or magazine front page photoshoots. She said the actor instead focussed on chiselling his craft.

Sutapa wrote the note on Facebook late Wednesday. She also clarified in the note that it has nothing to do with late actor Sushant Singh Rajput and should be taken in that context alone. In a message to the self-appointed messiah of outsiders she also said that the concept of oneness should not be narrowed down to the point that people become the proverbial fogs in the well.

She wrote in her note, If you consider your work a spiritual quest you wont be sad if people didnt call you for their parties or did not come for your premiers. Irrfan did not get a cover page of a film magazine for many years he did not waste his time gossiping about people or bad mouthing nor did he get depress ,he chiseled his craft ..and refused to be part of it till he got the cover page and he did.(he got mostly depressed not clinically but sad, looking at the disparity in the society.)or once or twice went to a brink of breakdown preparing for roles not because so called insiders did not call him for holi parties. and yes no one dared make fun of him ever on any show or any channel.

She added, The point is if you are unable to sustain the indifference of the power people or understand the business of film industry and you want to continue here then you need help and talking to a therapist is not equivalent to be called mad.

Sutapa began her note with talking about her own roots, Who is an outsider/one who comes from another state, city , caste, clan? What are roots ? Its grey the entire area. So lets begin with me I live in Mumbai and I come from Delhi (outsider tick 1)..I am a Bengali but I am not born in west Bengal but born in delhi(tick 2) my roots from both the sides of my parents are very distant now, in Bangladesh which is no more a part of INDIA(thats a large tick of being outsider) I am a hindu married to a muslim( I dont know where all I put the outsider tick for this)so who am I?

Insisting that being an outsider doesnt make you an object of pity, she wrote, I am about myself ! I am unique! I am me! I am indian! Hence I kind of feel you the one who is pretending to be the messiah of outsiders who most probably is not even from the industry is putting me into a bracket and underlining for the whole world to see I am an outsider and also hence pity me? I dont want your patronization. Did you ask any outsiders  if they want this intervention?? Or you are self appointed outsiders association of India??

Also read: Abhishek Banerjee plays a romantic character for first time in PariWar, fulfils all 3 criteria needed for his moms approval

Urging people to stop inside-outside debate, she said, Dont narrow the concept of oneness if one would take the regionalism so strongly you become a frog in a small pond..because I look at many sadhus spiritualist coming from every region but finding solace in Himalayas ..who owns Himalayas ? and when they go their its them they melt to the region not the people of that region? Its their need to go to Himalayas not those people who are inhabitants on the foothills and no one cares as its purely nirvana. Neither the seeker nor the giver..

Here is the complete text of the note:

Grave Warning : perhaps longest post in the FB so if you are absolutely bored read on.

Who is an outsider/one who comes from another state, city , caste, clan? What are roots ?

Its grey the entire area. So lets begin with me I live in Mumbai and I come from Delhi (outsider tick 1)..I am a Bengali but I am not born in west Bengal but born in delhi(tick 2) my roots from both the sides of my parents are very distant now, in Bangladesh which is no more a part of INDIA(thats a large tick of being outsider) I am a hindu married to a muslim( I dont know where all I put the outsider tick for this)so who am I?

Do I feel something in my heart when I hear baul music yes I do! is it because my roots are Bengali I dont know but Bengali music is very nostalgic for me .

but I do feel my heart swings to a qawaali too..!! do I remember only a Bengali song when sad ?no not any more..it could be all you know a hindi film song the industry I belong to for last thirty years which I listen to when I am sad agar tum saath hois my all time go to music .

so with my example I can say I am a sum total of culture background atmosphere upbringing sensibility exposure and much more..

What defines me is what I am now today and not definitely my roots only and hence i need not become Bollywood to practice my craft too ..

I am about myself ! I am unique! I am me! I am indian! Hence

I kind of feel you the one who is pretending to be the messiah of outsiders who most probably is not even from the industry is putting me into a bracket and underlining for the whole world to see I am an outsider and also hence pity me?

I dont want your patronization. Did you ask any outsiders  if they want this intervention??

Or you are self appointed outsiders association of India??

I eat Bhakhri listen to Marathi songs.

Stop this! This inside outside theories it works only in design journals.

Dont narrow the concept of oneness if one would take the regionalism so strongly you become a frog in a small pond..because I look at many sadhus spiritualist coming from every region but finding solace in Himalayas ..who owns Himalayas ? and when they go their its them they melt to the region not the people of that region? Its their need to go to Himalayas not those people who are inhabitants on the foothills and no one cares as its purely nirvana. Neither the seeker nor the giver..

If you consider your work a spiritual quest you wont be sad if people didnt call you for their parties or did not come for your premiers. Irrfan did not get a cover page of a film magazine for many years he did not waste his time gossiping about people or bad mouthing nor did he get depress ,he chiseled his craft ..and refused to be part of it till he got the cover page and he did.(he got mostly depressed not clinically but sad, looking at the disparity in the society.)or once or twice went to a brink of breakdown preparing for roles not because so called insiders did not call him for holi parties.

and yes no one dared make fun of him ever on any show or any channel .

The point is if you are unable to sustain the indifference of the power people or understand the business of film industry and you want to continue here then you need help and talking to a therapist is not equivalent to be called mad.

Its a simple thing no one owns Bollywood until or unless you think there are some people who own this industry.

The Bollywood couldnt do a shit about Irrfan getting Hollywood offers.

I am happy! And obviously some arent comfortable in their skin hence you love shredding characters and strangers in pretext of being the well wisher ..wish well for yourself and the world would be a lovely place to be.

In these kind of crusaders words Irrfan could be an outsider too.

But he wasnt he chose to be what he was an objective witness to this jamboree

called Bollywood.

Did he miss the parties as some call them imperative to attend to feel wanted and be part of the Bollywood? No he didnt even feel to be part of vacuous stuff also without being cynical he was a great believer in individual choices.

But why would he have felt left out?? May I know? In one hand we call them toxic and on the other we are offended if they dont include you. Its a weird desire you are yourself giving them the power by seeking for their validation.

As for me I am not weak nor do I feel shattered if I am not part of the coterie of film stars/star wives because I have a life and I dont give anyone to decide my life style.

I am not ashamed to wear clothes designed by me. I dont give people the permission to judge me hence they cant judge me/my clothes/my choices/ and the same worked for Irrfan. No he did not feel the victim.

One advice to the newcomers who want to be actors and not only stars, give them (as some people debate has made it into them and us) only due importance. the moment one gives undue importance to any prevalent trend in film industry and their lifestyle it becomes painful and pathetic for you .you are the person who has to evolve and what is the point of evolving if you cant ignore people who dont matter.

How can you be called a victim unless someone forces you to get sucked in .

Stand tall and fight for your rights. Get your priorities right Dont whine because you are not inner circle. You can feel indifference towards them and survive because the inner circle is not worth you you are.

In the end of the day you choose to be who you are no one else does it for you. So your weaknesses are yours, your fears are yours,your fight is yours. May you survive in the most dignified way because that will determine what you are made up of.

Ps : please dont remark without reading the whole post.

Pss : it has nothing to do with SSR.

Sutapa is currently in London.

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Almost 500,000 has been spent increasing security at the homes of under-threat prison officers in the last three years.

A warders' trade union said it underlined the risk many were still facing.

A total of 472,860 was spent in the three-year period, Justice Minister Naomi Long revealed.

Kyle Black, whose prison officer father David was shot dead by dissident republicans as he drove to work at Maghaberry in 2012, said the outlay demonstrated the need for continued protection.

"It shows the level of threats to prison officers and that Northern Ireland has some way to being normalised for people working within the security services," Mr Black added.

"I hope they will continue to get the same level of protection and support. If looking at the bigger picture, we need to continue to review what protections can be given and ensure that they are given the utmost level that they deserve."

Mrs Long revealed that in the 12 months to April the Northern Ireland Prison Service spent 137,796 on adding protective measure to officers' homes.

This was an increase from 81,236 the previous year, but lower than the 253,828 spent in 2017/2018.

The numbers likely reflect the threat level from paramilitary groups operating outside prisons, said Ivor Dunne, who chairs the Northern Ireland Prison Officers' Association (POA).

"If you look at the figures, if the terrorist threat goes up on the outside, it is more dangerous for prison officers. It tells us that our members are still under extreme threat," he explained

Mr Dunne said the threat facing prison officers was severe.

"In Northern Ireland, it is up close and personal- it is unlike anywhere else in the UK," he added.

The POA head described prison officers' position as the "soft underbelly" of the security services, at risk despite being "completely neutral and with no affiliation to anyone".

"In normal circumstances, intelligence is what triggers a response that members need extra protection," he said.

Among the security measures in place at the homes of officers are cameras and reinforced doors.

Thirty-two prison officers have been killed in Northern Ireland, all but one since the start of the Troubles.

Adrian Ismay was the most recent to die when a booby trap bomb exploded underneath his van outside his east Belfast home in 2016.

"Each and every prison officer is a target," said Mr Dunne. "Even as we are well into the peace process, I would not be telling someone in a restaurant that I am a prison officer."

Mr Dunne said the threats still largely came from paramilitary figures, mostly republican but also loyalists.

"If someone in prison says, 'I am going to shoot you', that is not a threat because they do not have the means, but when they say, 'I will get you shot', that is a threat," he added.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: Senior IAS officer Apurva Chandra on Thursday assumed charge as Labour Secretary. "Apurva Chandra who belongs to the 1988 batch of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Maharashtra Cadre assumed charge as new Secretary, Ministry of Labour & Employment here today," a labour ministry statement said.

Prior to this, Chandra was serving as Special Director General, Defence Acquisition, Ministry of Defence, a position where he played a key role in contributing towards AatmaNirbhar Bharat in terms of greater defence acquisition from domestic industry and at the same time keeping Defence Forces equipped with all its challenging requirements.

A civil engineer, Chandra obtained his bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering and Masters' in Structural Engineering from IIT Delhi. Chandra has spent more than seven years in the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas.

He has been involved in framing policies with regard to fuel supplies to industries, supply logistics, transportation, storage & distribution of fuel products etc. He was directly associated with Natural Gas transportation infrastructure, setting up of city gas distribution companies, LNG import terminals and allocation of gas to industries.

Chandra has served on the Board of Directors of Maharatna PSU, GAIL (India) and petronet LNG. He also served as Joint Secretary, Union Ministry of HRD, Department of School Education & literacy from August 2011 to February 2013.

Between 2013 and 2017, he worked as Principal Secretary (Industries). Chandra joined as Director General (Acquisition) in the Ministry of Defence from December 1, 2017 with the mandate of strengthening the Indian Armed Force by expediting the acquisition process.

He chaired the Committee to draft the new Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP). The DAP 2020 has come into effect from October 1, 2020 and will go a long way in promoting AatmaNirbhar Bharat while expediting procurement for the Armed Forces.
When Helen King posted a notice on the Chippawa Community News page on Facebook recently noting she and her husband were considering moving to Niagara to live in the village, she asked residents for input into a post shed seen referring to sewage backups in basements in the area.

The town has exactly the vibe that were looking for  we just want to be sure were buying in a safe zone, she said.

That sparked well more than a hundred comments from residents, some of whom clearly didnt want more newcomers arriving in the village from the Greater Toronto Area.

Stay away; this town has gone to s--t because of all the newcomers, one man told King bluntly.

If coming from GTA, stay away, we dont want you, another man posted.

They were a minority: resident Laura Walsh, for instance, told King they dont represent the spirit of Chippawa.

Welcome Helen King, I hope you love this village as much as we do, she said.

But the comments do reflect a nervousness among some in the village that its in danger of being overrun with development to the point where it could lose its unique identity.

There are fears among many that new developments will only worsen what some say has been decades of problems with basements being flooded with sewage backups during heavy rainfall.

An apartment building proposed for the corner of Sodom and Lyons Creek roads became a flashpoint for anti-development sentiment recently.

It dated back to the summer of 2018 when developer Go-To Niagara Falls Chippawa Inc. pitched the idea of a six-storey apartment building and nine townhouses at the site across from the Chippawa public boat launch, which met solid opposition from residents. So the developer changed the plan to two four-storey apartment buildings.

Both of those plans would have required an amendment to the citys official plan, its master planning document.

At a demonstration adjacent to the site in July, more than 100 residents gathered to voice concern over the proposal, saying the area is already congested with traffic. Many said they feared it would worsen sewage backups into basements.

But there also appears to be an overarching sentiment among many Chippawa residents that there is simply too much growth, happening too fast in the community that was forcibly amalgamated by the province with Niagara Falls a half century ago. Not far from the protest site on Lyons Creek Road construction of the new Legends on the Green housing project is going full steam ahead on Willoughby Drive.

As Niagara Falls council considered a new iteration of the Lyons Creek Road proposal recently, now changed to just a single four-storey building with 77 units, comments submitted by residents reflected on that.

Chippawa is a very quaint part of Niagara Falls with a close-knit, community and cottage feel, one resident whose name was redacted in the city report said in an email. Adding  condo units at that intersection will be a mess for traffic and ruin the essence of Chippawa.

Resident Mark Bucchinfuso, who lives on Nassau Avenue, told city council development cant be stopped but that doesnt mean it should be allowed to utterly transform a community.

That seems to me like the aim here: to make us another Oakville, he said. Well, were not Oakville, were not even Niagara Falls. Were Chippawa and were very proud to be called Chippawa.

City councillor and former longtime mayor Wayne Thomson said more than $22 million has been spent to fix up Chippawas sewage infrastructure in recent decades according to a new city report presented in August.

The sewer situation was so disastrous when we took it over in 1970, he said. Weve really done a great job there.

Mayor Jim Diodati said the city has spent more per capita in Chippawa than anywhere else in the city trying to rectify past problems.

Niagara Region has plans to build a new sewage treatment plant in the citys south end, but construction start is still about four years away.

At the city council meeting, Coun. Victor Pietrangelo said when its built, installing a trunk sewer line to the plant from the south side of Chippawa Creek will mean sewage from there wont have to be pumped under the river to the existing treatment plant north of the river, reducing further any chances of basement flooding.

But Coun. Vince Kerrio Jr. said that may not stop anti-development sentiments. I dont think youre going to change the perception of a lot of the residents of Chippawa, he said in August. As soon as someone wants to do something in Chippawa, all the residents get nervous and they say it (sewage infrastructure) cant handle it.

City council turned down approving a zoning bylaw amendment to allow the new Lyons Creek Road apartment building at the Sept. 15 meeting of council. Thomson said the developer will almost surely get that decision overturned if its appealed to the provinces land use referee, the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal.

This thing will be passed in a heartbeat by the tribunal, he said.

Coun. Mike Strange said public opposition to the project is a reflection of an overall fear of development overwhelming the community.

Everyone is jealous of Chippawa, I think, in Ontario because they all want to move down, he said.  Its such a beautiful place and weve seen it grow so much in the last 20 years and a lot of residents feel like its being taken away from them, that heritage and that old feeling of Chippawa.
Vick Hope is the cover girl of PRIDE Magazine's Black History Month Special, reflecting on her personal experience of racism in a candid interview.

The radio and TV star, 31, spoke to the magazine about growing up in Newcastle, raised by a Nigerian mother and a white English father.

Admitting she didn't often see examples of families like hers in real life, nor reflected in media, the star said she felt like a misfit.

Speaking out: Vick Hope is the cover girl of PRIDE Magazine's Black History Month Special, reflecting on her personal experiencde of racism in a candid interview

While she remembers her childhood fondly and is loyal to her hometown Vick explained: 'In many ways, that affects your confidence, doesn't it?'

'It makes you feel like you're less than, and you know, when people touch your hair without asking it's though you're kind of a novelty or like a pet... it's a bit dehumanising.'

Speaking about the Black Lives Matter movement in 2020, the star admitted she often feels deflated by responses from some, explaining: 'So my worry is that there are just some people who will refuse to listen, no matter what.'

'And that makes me scared that I can't ever do enough. But then that shouldn't be a reason to not keep fighting because then if we all felt that, we would never do anything, so we've got to keep going. You've got to keep going in spite of the people who don't want you to' .

Memories: The radio and TV star, 31, spoke to the magazine about growing up in Newcastle, raised by a Nigerian mother and a white English father

The interview with PRIDE also celebrates Vick's new BBC Radio 1 co-hosting slot on Life Hacks and The Official Chart: First Look, every Sunday from 4pm - 7pm.

Vick and Katie Thistleton's appointment mark the first time in 20 years that two female presenters are hosting a Radio 1 show together.

Life Hacks focuses on mental health and ways to improve life in general, with Vick admitting she herself learned so much from the show while growing up.

Tough: While she remembers her childhood fondly and is loyal to her hometown Vick explained: 'In many ways, that affects your confidence, doesn't it?'

'It was called The Surgery at the time, but the Life Hacks show was a very important place for me when I was growing up,' she said.

'I remember so many things that I didn't know how to talk to my teachers or my parents about; those hard questions that I had, they were answered on that show.'

'It was a place to feel like you weren't alone; that whatever you were going through, you have this community. I've found such solace in that show and it's very special to me.'

Pride magazine October issue is out now
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 09:16:38|Editor: huaxia

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HAVANA, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- Cuba's Foreign Affairs Ministry on Wednesday condemned "pressure and blackmail" from the U.S. government against the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).

"The Ministry denounces a spurious and mendacious evaluation that is being prepared by and for the aggressive purposes of the United States in its eagerness to discredit Cuba's international cooperation," the ministry said in a statement.

The foreign ministry claimed that the PAHO has been forced to accept an external review of the agency's role in the "More Doctors" program in Brazil under the threat of the United States' withdrawing substantial financial support for it.

Cuba participated in the "More Doctors" program from August 2013 to November 2018, when Havana announced the withdrawal of its more than 8,000 doctors from the program due to the "unacceptable" conditions imposed by Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro.

Bolsonaro stated that Cuban doctors were "slaves" of a "dictatorship" and that they needed to pass examinations to demonstrate their knowledge and professional preparation.

"The alleged concerns of the United States about Cuba's cooperation, in this case in the 'More Doctors' program, are not legitimate," the statement from the ministry emphasized.

Since 1964, more than 400,000 Cuban health workers have provided services in 164 nations, according to the Cuban Ministry of Public Health. Enditem
My son. My son. My son, cried Joe Biden.

This stunning moment of despair at the first presidential debate, if thats the right word, followed some momentary confusion, or feigned confusion, on the part of the current President of the United States Donald J. Trump.

Were we talking about Hunter Biden, arguably a fair political target, given his previous role as a lobbyist, or Beau Biden, who died of brain cancer in 2015 at the age of 46 and surely is not a fair target at all when you are debating his father, for the good Lords sake? At least, not in a nation that considers itself civilized. You know, decorous. Compassionate. Human. Tolerant.

Biden had intended to use his late son, Beau, as an illustration of his support for the military. He ended up shouting his name as if this elderly and clearly decent man was pleading for American democracy itself.

It was a moment enough to turn your stomach in a debate that mostly demanded that Americans look away, lest we get dragged down to the level of calling those in our most elevated offices clowns, or telling them to just shut up, man, shut up, just shut up.

What we had here was a chaotic, detestable and disastrous debate, a debacle so depressing as to seem fictional, taking place in a year with some 200,000 Americans lying dead from COVID-19.

Two hundred thousand Americans dead. Millions more untethered by economic losses. Is it not at least imaginable that, given such a backdrop of death, even sharply oppositional political opponents might have been able to debate health care, or economic policy, or taxation, or whatever the heck, with a modicum of respect for what the people they claim to serve have just suffered? Strike that. Are currently suffering. How did we get so far down this Trumpian rabbit hole that the question never seriously came up?

(This) will raise a lot of questions about the future of presidential debates between these two candidates, said Wolf Blitzer at the end of the night on CNN.

The future of debates, Wolf? The future of debates?

To hell and back with debates. This wasnt the Harvard Union. How about saying that Tuesday, Sept. 29, raised a lot of questions about the soul of a nation that clearly is coming apart at the seams?

Debates? Charming idea, but no longer possible in the America we have wrought. Demonstrably.

At what other presidential debate in the history of the union have American ever heard the person sitting in that office use the phrase stupid bastards? Teachers, good luck explaining that one to your kids in Zoom school.

Yet instead of suspending normal hostilities, as utterly demanded by the extraordinary circumstances, the debate did more to raise the national blood pressure than ingesting six Quarter Pounders with shaved onions, mayonnaise and extra cheese. This thing was nearly unbearable to watch. No other presidential debate, ever, has been so personally painful, or made one feel ones mortality more.

If you admire disrupters, you might, for a second, have given the president his due. No one knows how to deal with him. Still. And what none of the elites on the left want to admit is that they also dont know how to talk to the white working classes like Trump does. Still. And hes never better than when cornered on all sides.

But to give this man his due, you had to be willing to, oh, you know, temporarily suspended all levels of human decency, to see all political discourse as a zero-sum game, an existential battle of will completely removed from any surrounding context outside of the debate room in Cleveland or wherever we were. Who even cared? It felt more like the waiting room to hell that appears in Jean Paul Sartres No Exit.

Its remarkable and it would be just so very compelling if we all werent trying to mourn the dead and right our lives.

Chris Jones is chief theater critic and culture columnist for the Chicago Tribune.

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Job Title: Accountant

Organization: WEI/Bantwana



Duty Station:

Kampala, Uganda

Reports to: Finance Manager

About US:

Since 1951, World

Education, Inc. (WEI) has been working to improve the lives of the poor through

education and social and economic development programs. The Bantwana Initiative

of World Education, Inc. is a recognized leader in delivering integrated

comprehensive interventions to improve HIV outcomes and the quality of life for

orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) and families affected by HIV and poverty.

Rooted at the grassroots level, WEI/Bantwana builds the capacity of

communities, civil society and governments to coordinate and deliver integrated

comprehensive services for vulnerable children and families while strengthening

structures and service delivery across the HIV continuum of care.

About USAID ICYD Project:

The USAID Integrated

Child and Youth Development Activity (USAID ICYD Activity) aims to improve

learning outcomes, advance HIV epidemic control in Uganda, and ensure that

children and youth have the opportunity to lead resilient, healthy and

productive lives. The USAID ICYD Activity will deliver critical

HIV/GBV/violence prevention and response services to children and youth and

their families in communities, clinics, and schools. Within USAIDs Journey to

Self-Reliance Framework, USAID ICYD Activity will build the operational and

technical capacity of four Ugandan Primary Local Partner (PLP) organizations to

become direct recipients of USG funding within two years while strengthening

government capacity to deliver core services to children within an integrated

referral network and case management system. WEI/Bantwana is a leader in OVC programming

and organizational capacity development in high HIV prevalence countries in

southern and eastern Africa.

Job Summary: The Accountant is a key member of the finance

team. S/he will play a pivotal role in ensuring adherence to financial policies,

activity policies and procedures, regulations, controls, and reporting systems.

The Accountant will provide accounting and financial analysis support to the

project and will ensure submission of financial reports based on internal

deadlines. This position will work with guidance from the Finance Manager to

ensure compliance of all contractual, accounting and financial reporting

functions. Responsible for recording costs and day to day general accounting,

accounts receivable/payable, payroll, assuring all backup documentation is

audit ready, and troubleshooting accounting issues.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

Financial Reviews

and Internal Control:



The

Accountant will ensure accountability, internal control development and

enforcement as per the guidelines. Specifically, the Accountant shall be

responsible for reviewing subcontractor invoices and staff advances submitted

for reimbursement for compliance to operational and financial procedures



Review

expenditure accountability documentation to ensure completeness, adequacy and

full compliance with WEI and donor regulations



In

liaison with the Finance Manager, support partner organisations to build strong

and sound financial management practices in compliance with the accountable

subcontract agreements

Financial

accounting and reporting



Manage

working sub-contract ledgers in accordance with laid down procedures and

posting financial transactions into QuickBooks



Posting

transactions in QuickBooks using appropriate general ledger codes and subcodes



Preparing

monthly bank and mobile money account reconciliation statements for review by

the Finance Manager



Send

monthly accounts to the Boston Head Office including updated QuickBooks

Database and supporting documentation



Work

closely with procurement management team for all approvals and purchasing of

equipment and supplies



Undertake

other accounting functions such as reviewing staff advances, liquidations,

preparation of VAT claims reports, and filing of VAT and Pension returns, as

needed



Preparing

staff payroll and remitting statutory deductions on a timely basis.



Conduct

financial support to partner organisations in financial management skills



Any

other legally accepted duties and roles as may be assigned by the Finance

Manager from time to time



Participate

in the internal procurement committee and provide financial technical guidance

on procurement matters



Review

monthly fuel consumption reports, vehicle repairs and maintenance and asset

registers

Qualifications, Skills and Experience:



The

ideal candidate must hold a Bachelors degree or higher in accounting, finance,

or a related field is required, plus ACCA or CIMA qualification.



4+ years

of relevant experience and progressive responsibility in finance and

accounting; experience working on USAID-funded activities preferred.



Demonstrated

leadership skills with experience in senior financial management position

preferably with an International NGO



Demonstrated

knowledge of internal controls and audit processes (e.g. procurement, local

subcontract agreements, etc.)



In-depth

knowledge of USAID contracts management and/or financial management rules and

regulations



Conversant

with QuickBooks accounting package



Willingness

to work as a team member, taking on additional tasks as needed to ensure the

overall success of the project



High

level of attention to detail, ability to multitask and work well under pressure



Strong

analytical and interpersonal skills



Ability

to work under pressure and in a culturally sensitive environment

How to Apply:

All applicants

should submit a cover letter, updated CV, and three references to: BantwanaICYD@ug.worlded.org

with the position title you are applying for in the subject line.

NB:

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until positions are filled.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Deadline: 2nd October 2020 by 2:00pm

For more of the

latest jobs, please visit https://www.theugandanjobline.com or find us on our facebook page https://www.facebook.com/UgandanJobline






Mumbai Indians captain Rohit Sharma is inches away from joining an elite list when MI take on Kings XI Punjab in the Match 13 of IPL 2020 in Abu Dhabi on Thursday.

Also Read | Mumbai Indians pace battery in for Rahul-Mayank test

Rohit, who was dismissed for eight in MIs last match against RCB, which went to the Super Over, needs just two runs to reach 5000 IPL runs. He will be the third player to achieve this feat in the IPL behind RCB captain Virat Kohli and Chennai Super Kings Suresh Raina, who has decided to give this years IPL a miss due to personal reasons.

Also Read | KL Rahul likely to test the same XI against Mumbai Indians

Rohit is currently placed at the third position in the list of highest run-scorers in IPL with 4998 runs. Raina and Kohli are the only two players to cross the 5000-run mark in IPL. Kohli has scored 5430 runs in 180 matches at an average of 37.12. Raina, on the other hand, has scored 5368 runs in 193 games at an average of 33.34.

Also Read | Rohit Sharmas unchanged XI can do wonders against Kings XI Punjab

Rohit also needs 10 more runs to reach the 600-run mark against KXIP. Provided he gets there, this will be the fifth IPL team Rohit would have scored those many runs. Rohit will have his task cut out against a KXIP attack which has Mohammed Shami and Sheldon Cottrell in the pace department and Murugan Ashwin and Ravi Bishnoi as spinners.

KXIP and MI have displayed some fantastic cricket in this years IPL but unfortunately havent been able to win the close games. Both lost their Super Over matches this year.
Mandel Ngan/AFP/Pool/Getty Images

A Senate committee voted Thursday to subpoena the CEOs of Facebook, Twitter, and Google to compel them to testify before Congress.

The CEOs will face questions about concerns over Section 230, a law that shields social media companies from being held liable for the content of users' posts, as well as privacy and antitrust concerns.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Google CEO Sundar Pichai, and Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey were previously invited to testify before the committee voluntarily. Senators voted to subpoena the CEOs after they didn't willingly agree to testify.

Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

A Senate committee voted Thursday to subpoena the CEOs of Facebook, Google, and Twitter to make them testify before congress after the executives didn't agree to appear voluntarily.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Google CEO Sundar Pichai, and Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey will be compelled to answer questions from the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee about concerns over Section 230, a law that shields social media companies from being held liable for the content of users' posts.

A Facebook spokesperson declined to comment. Representatives for Google and Twitter did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The CEOs were previously asked to testify before by committee chairman Roger Wicker, a Republican from Mississippi. A spokesperson for Wicker told Business Insider last week that the Senator planned to move to subpoena the CEOs if they didn't willingly agree to testify.

While some Senators didn't initially support Wicker's plans, the committee ultimately voted unanimously to issue subpoenas Thursday.

Democrats have called for Section 230 to be amended to force social media companies to take a firmer stance to moderate hate speech and misinformation on their platforms, while Republicans  including President Donald Trump  have taken aim at the law over perceived anti-conservative bias by big tech companies.

Story continues

Trump has said that Section 230 protections should be weakened, voicing grievances after Twitter and Facebook applied fact-check labels to his posts that contain misinformation about mail-in voting.

Republicans claim that incidents like Twitter and Facebook's warning labels are evidence of anti-conservative bias. The tech companies have denied that political bias influences their decisions about how to moderate content, and data shows that conservative sites and pundits regularly generate content that garner the most interactions of any outlets online.

Sen. Ted Cruz, a Texas Republican, said Thursday that Section 230 should be reformed to give tech companies less power over how content is moderated.

"Even if you happen to agree with them on a particular issue right now, ceding the power to the star chamber of Silicon Valley is profoundly dangerous," Cruz said.

Meanwhile, Democrats on the Senate panel focused on antitrust as a primary reason to subpoena the CEOs. Both Zuckerberg and Pichai already testified before a House subcommittee in July alongside Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos and Apple CEO Tim Cook over concerns about the size of their platforms and possible anticompetitive behavior.

Sen. Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat, said Thursday that she supported the committee's decision to subpoena the CEOS but that antitrust concerns outweigh allegations of possible political bias.

"We are joining you with this subpoena but you need to join us when it comes to taking on this major, major issue that Senator Cruz has identified when it comes to monopolies," Klobuchar said to Republicans on the panel.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-02 04:45:11|Editor: huaxia

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WASHINGTON, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump suggested on Thursday that he won't agree to any rule changes at the remaining two debates with 2020 Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden.

"Why would I allow the Debate Commission to change the rules for the second and third Debates when I easily won last time?" Trump tweeted, while several polls showed that most viewers think Biden did better in the first 2020 presidential debate.

The tweet came a day after the Commission on Presidential Debates said it's considering changes to the format of the next two debates to "ensure a more orderly discussion of the issues" amid wide criticism that the first Trump-Biden matchup was messy and unpresidential.

On the stage in Cleveland, Ohio on Tuesday night, Trump interrupted Biden on nearly every topic he was talking about and mocked his intellect and performance in college, while the former U.S. vice president hit back by calling his opponent a "liar" and a "clown" and told him to "shut up."

White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said during a White House press briefing on Thursday that Trump "wants to debate, he plans on being at the debate, but he wants the rules to be fair and wants a fair exchange and doesn't want rules that cover for a certain candidate's inability to perform well."

In a press call later, Trump campaign adviser Jason Miller said Trump will participate in the next two debates against Biden and that "there should not be any changes" to the rules that have been agreed to. Biden's campaign has committed to attending the events.

Biden on Wednesday criticized Trump's behavior during the debate, saying that changes are needed.

"I just hope there's a way in which the debate commission can control the ability of us to answer the question without interruption," Biden told reporters.

U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said on Thursday that she doesn't think Biden should debate Trump again.

"I myself did not think that Joe Biden should dignify debate with the president who has no commitment to fact, evidence, data, demeans the office he holds," the California Democrat said during an interview with Bloomberg TV. "I never thought he shouldn't do it because I didn't think he would do well. I thought he shouldn't do it because I thought something like this could happen."

The second 2020 presidential debate will be held on Oct. 15 at Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts in Miami, Florida, Trump's home state and a battleground for this year's presidential election.

That debate will take the form of a town meeting, in which questions will be posed by citizens from the South Florida area. The candidates will have two minutes to respond to each question and there will be an additional minute for the moderator to facilitate further discussion.

Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee, will host the third Trump-Biden debate on Oct. 22, whose format is said to be identical to the first encounter.

There will also be a vice presidential debate between Vice President Mike Pence and Biden's running mate, U.S. Senator from California Kamala Harris, at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, Utah on Oct. 7.

Election Day falls on Nov. 3 this year, while early voting, either in-person or by mail, has started in some states. According to the RealClearPolitics polling average, Biden leads Trump by 7.2 percentage points nationally and 3.5 points in top battleground states, as of Thursday. Enditem
"So the American people should make no mistake," said Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. "A vote by any senator for Judge Amy Coney Barrett is a vote to strike down the Affordable Care Act and eliminate protections for millions of Americans with preexisting conditions."

Grassley said Wednesday that he thinks most of the ACA is safe even if parts of it are found invalid.

"I doubt if it's going to be struck down whether she's on the court or not," Grassley said.

Democrats also have suggested that Barrett should recuse herself from any matters related to the coming election. Grassley said that sort of talk involves too much hypothetical speculation and simply urged voters to get their ballots in soon.

"I hope that the electorate is waking up to the fact that you better get voting and get your ballots in early so they can be counted and we don't have to wait until Christmas to find out who's the next president," Grassley said.

Sen. Ben Sasse of Nebraska is a member of the Judiciary Committee and set to meet with Barrett on Thursday. Sasse says he has long been an advocate for her to join the Supreme Court.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 22:58:19|Editor: huaxia

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JERUSALEM, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Israel on Thursday confirmed that it has agreed to U.S.-brokered negotiations with Lebanon aimed at ending a long-time dispute over the maritime border between the two sides.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi said in a statement, "This is an important step that has come after three years of diplomatic contacts."

He said that he was hopeful that "success in the talks will significantly contribute to the stability of the region and promote prosperity for the citizens of both Israel and Lebanon."

Israeli Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz said in a statement that the talks would be held in a base of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) in the town of Naqoura in southern Lebanon.

Steinitz added that the discussions are expected to begin later in October.

"Our goal is to bring an end to the dispute over the demarcation of the economic waters between Israel and Lebanon in order to assist the development of natural resources for the benefit of the people of this region," he said. Enditem
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. The Azerbaijani side has been threatening with the use of force and now they are using force seeking military solution to the Nagorno Karabakh conflict and expecting unilateral concessions from Nagorno Karabakh or from Armenia that is out of question, Armenias Foreign Minister Zohrab Mnatsakanyan said in an interview to Sky News Arabia.

Sky News Arabia: I want to ask first about what are the preconditions that will lead Armenia to enter the negotiations?

Zohrab Mnatsakanyan: Armenia doesnt have any preconditions. Armenia has firm commitment that there is no alternative to the peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The Azerbaijani side has been threatening the use of force and now they are using force seeking military solution to this conflict and expecting unilateral concessions from Nagorno-Karabakh or from Armenia that is out of question. We are firmly committed to the peaceful settlement. However, we are in full strength in our spirit, in our capacity to defend our land, to defend our people, to defend the security of Nagorno-Karabakh and of Armenia. The Armenian people in Nagorno-Karabakh are very determined to defend themselves. And Armenia has been and remains the sole security guarantor for Nagorno-Karabakh. We will defend. There is no alternative to peace. Azerbaijan should stop its military aggression against the people of Nagorno-Karabakh; come to its senses and peacefully negotiate the resolution of this conflict.

Sky News Arabia: How do you see the intervention of Turkey in this conflict and sending some people to solve such conflicts?

Zohrab Mnatsakanyan: Turkey is the destabilizing force in this entire situation. They have been fueling tension with all their aggressive policies in the South Caucasus. They have been unilaterally supporting Azerbaijan; transferring armaments; transferring terrorist fighters recruited from parts of Syria they control and from Libya. We have absolutely credible information and facts about this happening. They have been transferred to Azerbaijan. They are fighting our people today. Their equipment, their aviation are in the air. They are on the ground. They are used against our people. Turkey is the destabilizing party to this conflict. They have been doing this in the Eastern Mediterranean, they have been doing this in the Middle East, in North Africa. Now they have projected this to the South Caucasus as well. This is totally rejected. They are not welcomed here.

Sky News Arabia: Did you take any procedures of measures the information to this intervention for example by the international arena, especially in the United Nations, for example?

Zohrab Mnatsakanyan: We are working for the peaceful resolution within the internationally agreed format of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairmanship, which comprises France, Russia, and the United States. We are working very closely, with our partners, to calm the situation, to de-escalate, and to come back to the negotiations. France, Russia, and the US are working very actively, and I think there is a good mobilization on the part of the International community, on the part of the United Nations, on the part of the European Union, on the part of the Russian Federation, which denies Turkey, the role of a destabilizer in this region. We will continue to engage firmly with all our partners to de-escalate and to exclude the external actors from this region and to stop them from these destabilizing actions they have been taking.

Sky News Arabia: Armenia refused to have any peace talks with Azerbaijan, with Russian mediation. What is the closest mediation to you, or the best mediation for you in any negotiations coming to you in this time?

Zohrab Mnatsakanyan: Well, I dont think you are well informed about this, because, you know, Armenia has not been rejecting the negotiating process. I run to repeat: the negotiating process is happening within the internationally mandated format, which comprises three countries: Russia, France, and the United States. And we are working within this internationally agreed format. We are committed to this and we will continue to do that. There is no talk of Armenia rejecting any negotiations. Its exactly the opposite. It is the Azerbaijani position of maximalism and the use of force that we are now witnessing, which assumes that there is a military option to the resolution of this conflict. With our resolve to defend, we deny, we reject this military option. There is only peaceful settlement to this conflict.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belarus S.Aleinik meets the Ambassador of Japan

On October 1, 2020 the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Belarus, Sergei Aleinik, met with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Republic of Belarus, Hiroki Tokunaga.

The parties discussed the key areas of Belarusian-Japanese cooperation. Special attention was paid to the development of bilateral political dialogue, as well as to strengthening of trade, economic and humanitarian ties between Belarus and Japan in the light of the latest trends in the epidemiological situation.



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As the Oct. 5 deadline neared for people to register to vote in the November election, cars lined in the parking lot at the Clear Lake Freeman Library for an event staged by the League of Women Voters of the Bay Area.

Susan Braymer, the communications chair of the nonpartisan LWVs local chapter, was pleased  at least 63 people updated their registration or registered to vote  some for the first time  at the Sept. 29 event.

We do everything with regard to voting and informing, and our mission is to inform citizens and the public about key issues in the Bay Area, Braymer said. Right now, were focusing on getting people registered and giving them information.

The group serve communities including Webster, Friendswood, League City, Nassau Bay, Taylor Lake Village, El Lago, Seabrook, La Porte, Deer Park, Clear Lake Shores, Dickinson, Kemah and parts of Houston including Clear Lake.

While the goal is the same as it has been throughout the national organizations century-old history  getting the word out about the process of voting and keeping the public informed through voters guides with nonpartisan information on candidates and issues  the group has encountered some obstacles this year.

For one, the nonprofit relies on funding from members fees and donations from the community.

Its been really challenging this year because of COVID and people being unemployed, Braymer said.

Bay Area League of Women Voters What: The League of Women Voters of the Bay Area (Texas) is part of a national organization that represents more than 12,000 grassroots advocates and 34 local leagues across the state. The Texas League has been active since 1919. The group encourages participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues. Membership in the League is open to men and women age 16 and older. For voter-related information, visit the group's website or Facebook page , call 713-301-3019 or message lwvbatx@gmail.com. Texas voters guide: For access to a printable or online interactive voter's guide from the league, click here. See More Collapse

Another obstacle relates to where the group could stage registration events.

One of the LWVs biggest push is in reaching potential first-time voters.

Te group normally would have devoted much of its resources at registration events in spring and the fall at high schools in the region, including in the Clear Creek, Dickinson and Friendswood school districts, but the pandemic has restricted that access, said chapter president Barbara Murray.

Obviously we were not able to do the drives (at schools) that we had planned, said Murray, who has been with the chapter since 1982, when she was a stay-at-home mother looking for a way to have an impact in her community. Well have to see how many young people have been engaged, and not being at the schools, its hard to get a pulse on whether the engagement level would have been a lot higher than it has in years past.

Braymer, who joined the chapter a few years ago, remembers accompanying her mother, a longtime LWV member, to voter registration events as a child. She believes in the importance of participating in voter registration events targeting high school seniors and other first-time voters.

Ive gone to several events at schools  in government classes and during lunch periods  and we have to edge or push them to vote. As a rule, they dont think its important, and I would talk to them to encourage them, she said.

This year, the LWV has been distributing printed voters guides at independent living facilities, city halls and churches and provides ongoing online access to information.

Because Texas does not allow online voter registration, individual drive-through events like the one in the library parking lot, which was the last in-person voter registration event until the November election  became all the more urgent.

Were just doing the best we can, given the environment we are in, Braymer said.

The white-hot interest in national elections this year has boosted membership in the chapter, which includes men. Murray said numbers rose from about 45, a steady number for about five years, this year to 80.

During the registration drive-through at the library, a group of young people representing the Jack and Jill organization, a Black civics group that encourages high school-age youth to particpate in community and government activities, stood along Bay Ara Boulevard holding Vote here signs near the entrance.

That kind of engagement in the civic process encourages Murray.

It was very exciting to see these teenagers enthusiastic about getting the vote out, she said.

yorozco@hcnonline.com
Head of the Romanian Microbiology Society (SRM) Alexandru Rafila says the number of cases of infection with the novel coronavirus is increasing due to the "increasing" community transmission that occurs in various areas of the country, including the Capital City Bucharest, according to Agerpres.

"The number of cases is increasing due to the increasing community transmission that occurs in various areas of the country, including the Capital City Bucharest. (...) While also including those who come to Bucharest just for a temporary stay, we have 20 per cent of the total cases here, in Bucharest. It is clear that we have community transmission, meaning that people get infected after getting into contact with an infected person they don't know, and we cannot trace that, we cannot test the persons around that person who got infected, because we don't know who made her/his sick in the first place," Rafila told Digi 24 private television broadcaster on Wednesday evening.

Asked if he thinks schools reopening has anything to do with the increase in the number of infections with the novel coronavirus, Rafila said: "My opinion is that yes, there passed 10-12 days since the reopening of schools and I had said previously that we needed to see what happened in 12-14 days. And what we see so far is a large number of cases. On Sunday we had a record for a Sunday, on Saturday we had a record for a Saturday, today we have an absolute record. We are now waiting to see if the situation stabilizes in the following days and we reach the famous plateau, or the growth will continue."

In his opinion, the number of people admitted to ICUs will increase "for sure."

The SRM head also said that Romania is "in a club" of countries that have over 100 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, in terms of cumulative incidence.

"But I hope that we'll contradict the expectations of the European Centre for Disease Control, which issued a warning last week, and that people who become infected in Romania are less from the vulnerable categories so that we can have a health system able to take over the cases that need to be treated, and that the pressure will be manageable and not greater than the system's power of absorption," said Rafila.

He mentioned that, according to a European index, Romania is next to Bulgaria on the last spots of the ranking in terms of health system performance.

"Sure, if we take various rankings - a European index that is published every year on the performance of the health system - indeed, we are there side by side with Bulgaria on the last spots of the ranking in the EU, but it is not totally unexpected, because we also have the lowest amount, both in terms of percentage and in terms of the actual amount allocated to the health system. So given how much money is allocated to the health system, we're faring pretty well, it depends on how you look at things," said Alexandru Rafila.
A Cork farmer will not be prosecuted for a second time over the death of a boy who fell from his defective tractor seven years ago, after the Court of Appeal overturned an earlier ruling that the trial could proceed.

Micheal Murphy (14) was killed when he fell out of the passenger door of a tractor being driven by an employee of the appellant, George Ross.

The lock was broken and the door was being kept shut with plastic cable ties when the fatal incident happened on August 23, 2013, at Knocknacullota, Killavullen, Co Cork.

Mr Ross, of Convamore, Ballyhooly, Co Cork, was convicted under the Road Traffic Act and fined 700 by Mallow District Court in October 2014, for allowing the tractor to be driven when it was a danger to the public.

Last year, however, the High Court ruled that the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) could proceed with another prosecution against Mr Ross over the 14-year-old's death.

The 68-year-old yesterday successfully challenged the prosecution of him by the HSA in the Court of Appeal.

Mr Ross will now not have to come before Cork Circuit Criminal Court under the Safety Health and Welfare at Work Act on grounds that the tractor was an unsafe place to work. It is an indictable offence, which carries a maximum fine of 3m and a two-year prison sentence.

Mr Ross successfully claimed that he should not be prosecuted a second time for what he said was substantially the same offence. He also argued that there was a delay in bringing a prosecution and that the two offences being tried sequentially over a period of years amounted to an abuse of process.

Ruling judge Ms Justice Aileen Donnelly criticised the seven-year gap between the death and the ultimate decision on whether the prosecution could occur, which she said "does not reflect well on the State".
Bill de Blasio on Thursday failed to say how many NYPD officers have been fined for not wearing masks after he announced they should 'face penalties' for ignoring the mandate.

The mayor on Wednesday said he would start imposing fines on anyone who does not wear a mask in public after the city's COVID-19 infection rate rose above 3 per cent for the first time since June.

He said penalties should also apply to police officers, many of whom have been spotted out and about without a face covering.

'Our officers should be held to the same standard as all citizens, all public standards,' he said in a press conference. 'If they don't, there should be penalties.'

Bill de Blasio had said police officers should be 'held to the same standard as all citizens' and should face penalties for not wearing masks

The mayor on Thursday admitted he did not know how many cops have been penalized. NYPD officers have been spotted out and about without face coverings in recent months. Pictured: Cops at a Brooklyn protest on September 13

De Blasio's remarks comes six months after Governor Cuomo issued an executive order requiring all New York residents to wear masks when social distancing isn't possible.

It is a state law that while in public spaces, everyone over the age of two must wear a face covering or risk fines.

Cuomo earlier this week also questioned why so few members of the NYPD were following the order.

'Why don't the NYPD wear masks? What signal does that send?' the governor said on Tuesday.

'Wearing a mask is the law, but the police officer who's supposed to enforce the law doesn't wear a mask.'

During a press conference on Thursday, de Blasio failed to say how many cops have been fined so far and said he did not know exactly what penalty they would face.

New York City 's COVID-19 infection rate has risen to 1.52 per cent as cases continue to spike in 10 zip codes in Brooklyn and Queens

Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams hands out masks in the Borough Park neighborhood this week after the area, which has a high Orthodox Jewish population, reported a spike in COVID-19 cases

'There's obviously a range of disciplinary penalties that can be used by the NYPD for this particular offense. We'll get to that right away,' the mayor told reporters.

'They have to live up to the law and people need to see them living up to the law. So I want us to get those numbers out of how many people have been penalized.

'Not because I take joy in it. I'd love it if not a single officer have to be penalized. And there are going to be times where officers literally have to have a mask off, particularly if they're eating or drinking.

'But if there's not a legitimate reason, they should have a mask on like everybody else. If they don't, there should be a penalty and you should see the results,' he said.

As coronavirus cases in the city begin to increase, De Blasio said he was going to aggressively crack down on people who flouted the rule and that cops will start issuing fines.

The seven-day infection rate average was 1.38 percent on Tuesday but has since climbed to 1.52 percent, the latest figures from Mayor Bill de Blasio showed on Thursday

New York City on Thursday recorded its highest daily new case average in at least a month with 394 coronavirus infections

The clusters in the 10 zip codes had caused the average citywide infection rate to rise, NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio said on Thursday

New York City on Thursday recorded its highest daily new case average in at least a month with 394 coronavirus infections. It is down from the average peak of more than 5,000 per day in April

First, they will offer people a free mask if they are not already wearing one. If they refuse, they will be fined, he said, without saying how much they would be fined.

Cuomo previously told the MTA to issue fines of $50 to anyone on public transit who was not wearing a mask. It's unclear if that is as high as they will go.

New York City's COVID-19 infection rate has risen to 1.52 per cent as cases continue to spike in 10 zip codes in Brooklyn and Queens.

The clusters in the 10 zip codes had caused the average citywide infection rate to rise, de Blasio said on Thursday.

The seven-day infection rate average was 1.38 percent on Tuesday but has since climbed to 1.52 percent, the latest figures show.

New York City on Thursday recorded its highest daily new case average in at least a month with 394 coronavirus infections.

The 10 zip codes in Brooklyn and Queens are now also part of the 20 hotspots zip codes across New York state that collectively have an average infection rate of 6.5 percent, Gov Andrew Cuomo said on Thursday.

NYPD police officers wear masks in Times Square on September 22

Those 20 hotspot clusters have not resulted in a statewide spike in the infection rate, which is currently at 1.27 percent.

Prior to the recent uptick in NYC, the positivity rate - which is the proportion of positive results out of the total number of tests performed - had long hovered around one percent.

According to authorities, the uptick in cases is occurring in Brooklyn neighborhoods with significant populations of Orthodox Jews and coincides with gatherings linked to the recent holidays of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.

The zip codes with the uptick in cases have accounted for about 25 percent of the city's new daily cases in the last two weeks.

While NYC's positivity rates remain low compared to other major cities across the country, de Blasio said the uptick was concerning.

The latest figures were released on a day when the final wave of students returned to schools across the city for in-person classes.

De Blasio warned that he would shut schools down again if the average positivity rate across NYC exceeded 3 percent.
The mayor of Boracay in Aklan is appealing to Filipinos to visit the island, whose economy was severely battered by the travel restrictions brought by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mayor Frolibar Bautista said today that the white-sand beach looks even more spectacular because of the islands almost seven-month closure.

Boracay looks really beautiful now because it was closed for how many months. The water, the beach, theyre very clean, he said in Filipino and English in an interview with ABS-CBNs Teleradyo.

Read: Bring the Whole Fam: PH govt wants elderly and minors to visit Boracay

The breeze is really nice but its not that strong. Boracay is waiting for tourists to arrive from all over the Philippines.I ask our Filipino tourists to please bring your friends and families and enjoy our beautiful island, he added.

Hotels on the island will be allowed to operate at 50% capacity, and a maximum of two guests are permitted to share one bedroom. At least 383 bars and restaurants have received government accreditation.

Initially, only guests aged 21 to 59 years old were allowed to visit the island but the Department of Tourism appealed to the anti-coronavirus task force and the age restriction was lifted. However, all guests have to present a negative RT-PCR test 48 to 72 hours prior to arrival. The RT-PCR, considered the gold standard in coronavirus testing, costs about PHP2,000 (US$41.26) in a government-run hospital.

The pandemic is not the first crisis that brought Boracay  considered one of the worlds most beautiful islands  to its knees. In 2018, President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the closure of Boracay for six months, citing the need to rehabilitate it. The temporary closure led to the loss of thousands of jobs and the shutdown of scores of businesses.

This article, Boracays Come Back: One of the worlds best islands reopens today, originally appeared on Coconuts, Asia's leading alternative media company.
A Green River student will appear on a podcast produced by Wyoming Public Media and the Buffalo Bill Center of the West.

Molly Stanton, 13, a student at Lincoln Middle School, joins two students from Cody in exploring the Bureau of Land Management and public lands for "Kids Ask WhY." The podcast features journalists aged seven to 13 asking questions and exploring topics related to Wyoming and the modern American West. Stanton will appear on the podcast's second episode, which releases Oct. 13.

"Children have a natural curiosity about the world around them, and they also have idyllic optimis...
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Linkedin Belseran Christ (The Jakarta Post) Buru  Thu, October 1, 2020 14:46 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4870c8b 1 National PKI,political-prisoners,Buru-Island,G30SPKI,CommunistParty,tahanan-politik,tapol,Pulau-Buru Free

The sun was setting in the sky of Buru Island, Maluku, that Tuesday evening, yet Diro Sutopo seemed unbothered and continued to tend to his rice fields.

The 84-year-old, who has been transforming peatland into farmland on his own since the 1970s, currently owns up to 400 hectares of rice fields on the island.

Never in his wildest dreams did Diro think he would be a farmer working far from his hometown in Central Java, but the dark tragedy of Sept. 30, 1965, led to the then-33-year-olds exile on the island.

The New Order regime under the leadership of military dictator Suharto banished about 11,000 individuals to the island following a key series of events in Indonesian history referred to as G30S, during which six high-ranking army generals were kidnapped and murdered.

The Indonesian Communist Party (PKI) was blamed for the failed coup attempt, leading the Army special battalion to quickly take control and capture its leaders.

What followed was the systematic killing of PKI members across the country from late 1965 until 1966, as well as the banishment of individuals accused of being affiliated with the party in the 1960s and 1970s. Among the political prisoners was Diro, who arrived in Buru in 1969.

I did nothing wrong but was deemed guilty and banished here, he said.

During his detainment, Diro and other detainees were forced to turn the islands wilderness into farmland for growing crops. They occasionally received harsh treatment from camp guards.

Before being transported to the eastern part of the country, Diro was detained on the Nusakambangan prison island in Central Java.

He explained that there had been three groups of PKI political detainees at the time, namely Group A that comprised those to be put on trial, group B of those being charged and detained without trial and group C of those to be released. Most of the ones sent to Buru Island belonged in category B, including himself.

Diro had been forced to leave his pregnant wife, who died of depression not long after his capture. His first son was then raised by his parents in Boyolali, Central Java.

Diro was discharged in 1978 but was too afraid to return home due to the stigma of being an ex-PKI political prisoner.

I feared I could not raise my son well if I returned [as a former political prisoner], so I chose to stay here, said Diro, who eventually married a local woman and had four children with her.

He conceded that some people still looked down on him, so he hoped the government would admit its past crimes of accusing innocent people of wrongdoing.

We, the accused ones, never committed a crime, Diro said, insisting that the authorities straighten the distorted history.

No definite evidence was ever found that proved the PKI had killed the generals or that the group had attempted a coup. Scores of innocent people, estimated to be around 500,000 or even up to 2 million by some calculations, were murdered without a fair trial.

More were tortured and jailed without trial for years. Even after their release, the ex-prisoners could not have a normal life as they had special marks on their ID cards.

President Joko Jokowi Widodo stated during his presidential campaign that he would work to settle past cases of human rights abuses, which he has failed to fulfill until today. (vny)
COLUMBUS, Ohio, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Alliance Data Systems Corporation (NYSE: ADS), a leading provider of data-driven marketing, loyalty and payment solutions, today announced its Card Services business, a provider of market-leading private label, co-brand and commercial credit card programs, has launched its new Enhanced Digital Suite. A group of marketing and credit applications features designed to increase customer awareness and adoption of payment options by promoting credit earlier in the shopping experience, Enhanced Digital Suite is a comprehensive solution for brand partners designed to capitalize on online trends while increasing sales and customer acquisition rates.

Strategic Digital Features Align with Online Growth

In recent months, e-commerce platforms have quickly replaced physical shopping channels, with 10 years of growth occurring in just 90 days1. Enhanced Digital Suite reflects the changing landscape by creating a seamless process for customers to adopt, apply for and use payment options online.

Through the presentment feature of Enhanced Digital Suite, real-time financing and marketing messages are displayed earlier and more frequently during a customer's online shopping experience. After driving customer awareness of payment options, existing real-time pre-screen, prequalification and patented frictionless capabilities allow customers to easily and securely apply, and if approved, immediately begin shopping  without ever leaving the brand's website.

Engaging, Seamless Customer Experience

Providing a simplified user experience and clear and concise messaging, Enhanced Digital Suite helps shoppers make informed and confident choices when shopping online. By allowing customers to select the payment option that fits their specific needs, brand partners are expected to receive a higher number of qualified applicants, higher average order value and higher sales conversion.

"As customers dramatically shift their shopping habits, we have seen our online sales nearly double and the adoption of e-commerce increase," said Val Greer, chief commercial officer, Alliance Data Card Services. "These new digital marketing, credit and payment tools will further enhance the customer experience, helping our brand partners meet customers where they are, which increasingly is online. Alliance Data is investing in the expansion and transformation of its digital offerings, and Enhanced Digital Suite is reflective of that ongoing commitment."

Fast, Simple Integration

With a single application programming interface (API) and software development kit (SDK), Enhanced Digital Suite integration is fast and easy, typically allowing brand partners to capitalize on e-commerce growth in under six weeks. Marketing placements mimic the look and feel of existing branding, and messaging is both compliant and customer-friendly.

"Customers expect a seamless, convenient digital shopping experience," said Greer. "We are excited to offer a robust collection of customer-centric features that are also simple to implement and put into action for our brand partners. By encompassing all of our online application methods, Enhanced Digital Suite is a one-stop digital integration tool for our brand partners."

1 https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/strategy-and-corporate-finance/our-insights/five-fifty-the-quickening#

About Alliance Data Card Services

Alliance Data Card Services develops market-leading private label, co-brand, and commercial credit card programs for many of the world's most recognizable brands. Through our branded credit programs, we help build more profitable relationships between our partners and their cardmembers, and drive lasting loyalty.

Using the industry's most comprehensive and predictive data set, advanced analytics, and broad-reaching capabilities, Alliance Data's card services business has been helping partners increase sales and provide greater value to their cardmembers since 1986. We are proud to be part of the Alliance Data enterprise (NYSE: ADS), a FORTUNE 500 and S&P MidCap 400 company headquartered in Columbus, Ohio. To learn more, visit KnowMoreSellMore.com, follow us on Twitter @Know_SellMore, and connect with us on LinkedIn at Alliance Data Card Services.

About Alliance Data

Alliance Data (NYSE: ADS) is a leading provider of data-driven marketing, loyalty and payment solutions serving large, consumer-based industries. The Company creates and deploys customized solutions that measurably change consumer behavior while driving business growth and profitability for some of today's most recognizable brands. Alliance Data helps its partners create and increase customer loyalty across multiple touch points using traditional, digital, mobile and emerging technologies. A FORTUNE 500 and S&P MidCap 400 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, initiation or 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.

Media Contacts:

Alliance Data

Brian Vereb  Investor Relations

614-528-4516

[email protected]

Shelley Whiddon  Media

214-494-3811

[email protected]

Rachel Stultz  Media

614-729-4890

[email protected]

SOURCE Alliance Data Systems Corporation

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The Parliamentary Candidate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Gomoa Central Constituency, Hon. Moses Jehu Appiah, on Tuesday, September 29, 2020, met with one hundred five (105) female apprentices at Gomoa Obuasi.

The meeting saw the sponsorship commitment made by Mr. Jehu Appiah to train them in soap, hand sanitizer, and detergent making being fulfilled.

The Parliamentary Candidate, however, took the chance to explain to them H. E. John Mahama and the NDCs preparedness to lessen the burden of the Ghanaian apprentice. This, he said the NDC will implement the National Apprenticeship Program (NAP).

NAP is a full package the NDC will be implementing from January 7, 2021, should Ghanaians vote massively for H.E John Mahama and Mr. Jehu Appiah as President and Member of Parliament (MP) for Gomoa Central respectively. It contains allowances for apprentices, availability of capital, and provision of logistics to commence work as professionals.

Mr. Jehu Appiah encouraged the apprentices to embrace the training which will surely equip them with relevant skills for income generation.

The training program took place today at the Pentecost Church auditorium at Gomoa Obuasi in the Gomoa Central Constituency.

The apprentices thanked the Parliamentary Candidate and the NDC for extending a helping that rare kind gesture to them. They also endorsed the Partys National Apprenticeship Program( NAP) and pledged their full support for the NDC to win so they will implement it in 2021.
Google has unveiled its Nest Audio device, which it said can function as the centre of your entire home audio system.

The Nest Audio is the next-generation version of the Google Home smart speaker and interacts seamlessly with Googles Home, Nest Mini, and Nest Hub, as well as other Nest Audio devices, to create a complete home audio system.

There are three things that are most important to those looking for high-quality audio from a speaker, said Google.

Rich bass, more volume, and clearer sound.

Google said that the Nest Audio achieves this by offering 50% more bass and 75% more volume than the Google Home.

It has a 19mm tweeter and a 75mm mid-woofer built into it, as well as tuning software to ensure the audio quality is clear and of high quality.

Nest Audios sound is full, clear and natural. We completed more than 500 hours of tuning to ensure balanced lows, mids and highs so nothing is lacking or overbearing, said Google.

It also uses Googles Media EQ technology to adapt to your environment and to whatever audio content youre listening to so that you get the best listening experience at all times.

Google Nest Audio integrates with Googles virtual assistant and allows you to control your smart home verbally  meaning it combines the functionality of the Google Home with greatly improved audio quality.

Google said that the Nest Audio will be available from 5 October in 21 countries.

However, South Africa is not one of these countries. It is unclear if the Nest Audio will come to South Africa at a later date.

Meet #NestAudio from Google. With its woofer, tweeter, and tuning software, crisp vocals and powerful bass, #NestAudio delivers your music the way it should sound.#LaunchNightIn https://t.co/E75uqzHuGv pic.twitter.com/locTr9fB1D  Its showtime (@madebygoogle) September 30, 2020

 Get ready to experience #NestAudioSessions on @YouTubeMusic. Original tracks recorded in artists homes to be listened to in yours. Hear music the way its meant to be heard. Pre-order #NestAudio today at https://t.co/XnB4nyfCFX #LaunchNightIn pic.twitter.com/gbf0zaBs0R  Its showtime (@madebygoogle) September 30, 2020

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Two journalists in Kratie province have filed a police complaint in Tbong Khmum province accusing unknown assailants of beating them while on a reporting trip to cover forestry crimes.



Ren Samnang, 29, and Muok Saren, 40, are journalists based in Kratie province and work for Phnek Mnoas and Chakra Phup news outlets, respectively. They said they routinely travel to the nearby province of Tbong Khmum and Kampong Cham to report on illegal timber transport routes.



The reporters said they were sleeping in their car in Tbong Khmums Memot district at approximately midnight on September 28 when five to six men attacked them with hammers, axes, and sticks, with Ren Samnang saying the men seemed to come there with the intent to kill.



They broke the [car] window and beat me, he said. I started the car and drove away. They followed us in their van for a kilometer and threw an ax at my car.



Photos supplied by Ren Samnang show damage to the car and injuries on his back. The journalist said the attack was likely related to news reports his outlet published about a car carrying timber that was stopped by military police.



I think it is because of that. They wanted to retaliate, he said.



Muok Saren alleged the assailants planned to kill them, adding that the incident highlighted the risks of reporting on illegal timber transport.



We take risks because the offenders dont like us at all. They hate us, but we take the risks and [try to be] careful.

Hong Kim Hoeun, Memot district police chief, said he had received the journalists complaint. We are taking action, he said.

Sor Sina, director of Tbong Khmums Information Department, said he had sent details of the case and a complaint filed by the journalists to the Ministry of Information.

A lot of journalists come to that area to report on forestry crimes. It is not good that the [attackers] did this to the journalists, he said.

It is good that they reported the information so that we are able to take action, he said.

Ith Sothoeuth, media director at the Cambodian Center for Independent Media, said the attack is another attempt to intimidate local journalists, who play a key role in reporting sensitive issues in the provinces.

Journalists in the provinces face a lot of challenges, especially while reporting on sensitive issues like forestry crimes. We know that the forests dealers can be individuals, but most of them are the big dealers who are powerful, he said.

The Cambodian Journalists Alliance, a local media organization run by journalists, said there were 15 journalists across the country who faced attacks, detentions, or court complaints from July to September.

The country ranks 144 out of 180 countries in Reporters Without Borders 2020 press freedom index, a significant deterioration since the start of a 2017 government crackdown that targeted journalists as well.
Dont order a cappuccino after 11 a.m. Yes, its normal to drink your coffee standing at the bar. Dont ask for a to-go cup. If you order a latte, prepare to be confused.

Anyone visiting Italy for the first time has likely heard one of these lines. In Italy, coffee culture is sacred. It has rules, customs, etiquette, and a tried-and-true menu--but why?

How did coffee get to Italy?

Coffee was first cultivated in Ethiopia and later introduced to Europe through the Ottoman Empire. The Ottoman Empire recognised that coffees rich flavor and energising properties would make it a, and increased cultivation in Yemen for the European market. Venice , a port city, became one of the first European cities to regularly trade for coffee.

According to The Great Italian Cafe, when coffee first arrived in Italy, it was regarded as being sinful due to its association with the Islamic religion through the Ottoman Empire. In 1600, Pope Clement VIII was asked to publicly denounce coffee to discourage its consumption. To form a fair verdict, he asked to taste it. In a moment of clarity that has come to be known as the baptism of coffee, the Pope said, This Satans drink is so delicious that it would be a pity to let the infidels have exclusive use of it. With the Popes approval, Italian coffee culture was not only born, but blessed.

The birth of the Italian bar

In pre-unified Italy, coffee brought with it new social opportunities in the form of coffee houses. Coffee was best consumed hot and fresh, so Italy began establishing coffee houses, or cafes--. The tradition of coffee houses as social spaces had originated in the Ottoman Empire, but in Italy, it took on a life of its own.

The first Italian coffee houses opened in Venice around the end of the 17th century. According to the Great Italian Cafe, [they] soon became synonymous with comfortable atmosphere, conversation, and good food, this adding romance and sophistication to the coffee experience. While coffee houses usually welcomed aristocrats, one Venetian coffee house had a reputation for breaking social boundaries.

Caffe Florian: The birth of Italian coffees wild social life

Cafe Florian. Ph: Gordon Bell / Shutterstock.com

Caffe Florian, located in Venices Piazza San Marco, was founded in 1720. Today, Caffe Florian is the oldest operating coffee house in the world. In the 1700s, great artists such as Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, playwright Carlo Goldoni, and writers Giuseppe Parini and Silvio Pellico were known to stop in at the coffee house for intellectual conversations and, of course, coffee. As the first coffee house to allow women, it was frequented by legendary romantic Giacomo Casanova. It later became a favored stop of young aristocrats on the Grand Tour, such as Lord Byron.

Caffe Florian was a meeting place for political radicals before the French Revolution, and later for Venetian patriots during the Venetian Revolution of 1848. As history unfolded, coffee and society wound together at Caffe Florian. The cafe established itself as a meeting place for people from all walks of life, regardless of social class or political beliefs. Caffe Florian set a precedent of what a coffee house could be, and the role it could play in modern social life.

Espresso: The cornerstone of Italian coffee culture

In Italys original coffee houses,, boiled with spices and sugar in a heated pot. Each cup of Turkish coffee took around, not counting the time it took to cool down enough for customers to enjoy it. As demand for coffee grew, so did the need for a more efficient system. Enter: espresso.

Espresso is a coffee brewing method in which pressurisation is used to produce a concentrated form of coffee. The name of the process and subsequent beverage come from the Italian verb esprimere, to express, or press out. Many consider espresso to be the purest form of coffee because the quick process does the least damage to coffee grounds. Espresso is made with fine coffee grounds and hot water that is just below boiling temperature, where slower coffee brewing methods use coarser grounds and hotter water. Espresso lets coffee retain the complex, rich flavor of the grounds without burning them or watering them down.

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The long-awaited invention of espresso

Italian inventors conceptualised espresso long before its creation. According to the Smithsonian, as the popularity of coffee and coffee houses grew, inventors across Europe seized the opportunity to try to find a faster brewing method for coffee, knowing a patent for such a high-demand machine would surely make them rich.had spurred the industrial revolution. Now,The first iteration of the espresso machine was invented in 1884 by, a Turin -based inventor. Moriondo thought the solution to brewing coffee faster was to have a larger output, so his machine brewed large vats of coffee instead of small, individual cups., using 1.5 bars of steam-powered pressure to push water through coffee grounds. Though the machine, it was not designed for industrial production and never reached the market.

In 1901, Milanese inventor Luigi Bezzerra patented a smaller, single-cup version of Moriondos machine. It used steam and two bars of pressure to brew espresso in less than 30 seconds. Bezzera made several user-friendly additions to Moriondos machine, including the portafilter, the tapered coffee ground tray with a handle attachment. Though Berezzas machine was marketable, it produced inconsistent brews and had a hand-operated pressure valve that frequently burned baristas.

Desiderio Pavoni helped Berezza perfect his machine. He added a pressure release valve, making brewing safer and faster for baristas, and a steam wand for frothing milk. Pavoni and Bezzeras machine was called the Ideale, under the brand La Pavoni. In 1906, their product was introduced to the market, and with it, the term espresso.

Though steam power was efficient, it gave coffee a burnt taste. Patents by Francesco Illy and Achille Gaggia in the mid-1930s helped define what good espresso should be. Illys patent on the Illetta, a machine powered by pressurised water instead of steam, would become a blueprint for future machines. Its highly pressurised process meant the espresso was pressed without excessive steam, resulting in a richer, unburnt product.

In 1938, Gaggias small, efficient, steamless coffee machine took pressurisation to a new level. Where coffee had been expressed by two bars of coffee before, Gaggias machine used up to 10 bars to produce truly concentrated espresso--what is now recognised as modern espresso. In addition to its increased concentration, the high-pressure gave espresso its now signature crema, the naturally occurring coffee-foam that forms atop espresso.

Gaggias machine reigned supreme in the market until 1961 when the Faema E61 was invented. Ernesto Valentes stainless-steel machine utilised modern technical innovations to move the burden of espresso-making from the barista to the machine. With Faema E61, pressure, water temperature, and water amounts could be perfectly controlled for a flawless, consistent cup of espresso every time.

Patented technologies by inventors from Moriondo to Valente streamlined espresso machines into the efficient, reliable fixtures Italian bars are known for today.

Coffee culture finds its groove

By the time espresso reached its final form, coffee culture had adapted to meet it., to be sipped quickly and routinely throughout the day.

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By the mid-1900s, most baristas were able to provide a variety of coffee drinks such as, by mixing espresso with different amounts of warmed or frothed milk. Economic booms around the same time meant that Italians were spending more time outside of their homes, and bars became a space to grab a pastry for breakfast or a bite to eat later in the day.

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Bialetti: "Espresso" reaches the home

Even though coffee could be ordered, received, and consumed at the bar in a matter of minutes, coffee houses retained the same social atmosphere born in coffee houses like Caffe Florian. Coffee gave Italians a chance to meet up, chat, and enjoy time together--all while consuming a Pope-approved beverage. In 1933, inventorbrought espresso to Italian homes with the. The Moka Express, the original Moka pot, is anwith a recognisable octagonal base and top. The base holds the water, and when heated, steam pushes through a filter holding the coffee grounds, releasing espresso into the top of the pot.

While the Moka pot is a beloved staple of Italy today, it was born during a dark hour in Italian history: the Fascist Period. According to scholar Jeffrey T. Schnapp, during the Fascist Period, Benito Mussolini declared aluminium to be the national metal of Italy. The lightweight, malleable metal was used in production across Italy for home goods and everyday products, as well as military weapons and machinery.

Bialetti had worked in an aluminium factory in France, and upon returning to Italy in 1918, he started his own shop for aluminium goods. His idea for the Moka pot was born after studying his wifes washing machine, a contraption that used heat pressure to push sudsy water through a spout and into the washbasin. Bialetti realised that the same concept could be used to produce espresso. He went to work in his aluminium shop, and before long, the Moka Pot was born.

The Moka Pot: Sorry, its not espresso

The only downside to coffee from a Moka pot is that. Industrial coffee house machines, such as those made by Gabbia and Valente, use 9 bars of pressure to produce espresso--a perfected number that eventually became a technicality in the definition of espresso. The Moka pot only uses 1.5 bars of pressure. Nonetheless, the Moka pot makes a reliably delicious, unburnt dark coffee.

Though the Moka Express doesnt technically make espresso, most people think it does. This is likely due to the marketing genius of Renato Bialetti, Alfonsos son, who transformed the Moka Pot from a smart invention into a household staple.

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Renato Bialetti saw huge economic potential in the Moka Express. He invested in extensive marketing campaigns to expand his reach, using the slogan  meaning, at home, an espresso like that from a bar.

In 1953, competing brands pushed the Bialetti brand to distinguish itself. Renato Bialetti created the company mascot, a little man with a big mustache and one finger in the air, inspired by Alfonso Bialetti.

Bialetti's logo

With the lucky mascot and Renatos marketing know-how, Bialetti secured its position as the most successful Moka Pot producer in the world. Though the brand has now expanded to other styles of stovetop coffee pots, such as the stainless-steel Kitty and Venus, the Moka Express remains the most famous and beloved pot for homemade espresso. In 2011, 90 percent of Italian homes had a Moka Express, according to the New York Times.

Italys coffee culture isnt going anywhere

Whether at a bar or at home, you can count on Italians to drink coffee., a culmination of traditions, customs, and history. Though different regions have their own slight variations on coffee making and bar culture, the fundamentals remain the same: espresso, a standing bar, and a wonderfully hectic, social atmosphere.

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Seattle-based coffee megacorporation Starbucks seems to be taking over the world of coffee. As of 2020, it has more than 30,000 locations worldwide. Visit any major city in the world and you can easily find a Starbucks with a reliable menu of lattes, cappuccinos, Americanos, and a myriad of specialty coffee drinks.

While a countrys Starbucks may offer specialty drinks based on location and local tastes, there is usually a core menu of classic American Starbucks coffee drinks. But wait, you ask, arent lattes, cappuccinos, and Americanos Italian drinks? The simple answer is yes. Italian words, yes, and Italian drinks, technically--but you would be hard-pressed to find an Italian who claimed Starbucks coffee as remotely Italian. Most Italians want nothing to do with the too-big, too-watery concoctions Americans call coffee.

Starbucks has been reluctant to bring business to Italy because Italian coffee culture sternly refuses to be Americanised. Nevertheless, Starbucks has a few locations across Italy, mostly located around Milan and northern Italy. The first Starbucks in Rome was scheduled to open in September of 2020, but with the interruption of the coronavirus pandemic, it seems to have been postponed again. Romans remain unphased.

If there is one thing Italian coffee history proves, it is that coffee culture is Italian culture--it is a testament to the people coming together and enjoying the little things in life; it is a testament to generations of hard work and perseverance to perfect a craft that brings everyday people simple pleasures. Coffee culture is as Italian as espresso itself--and its not going anywhere.
Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra were on Thursday arrested by the Uttar Pradesh police after they were stopped from marching towards Hathras, the party said. Rahul Gandhi also fell down in the melee after police tried to stop him and his supporters from proceeding on the Yamuna Expressway. The Gandhis were then taken away in a police jeep.

Shri Rahul Gandhi, Smt Priyanka Gandhi and senior Congress leaders have been arrested by the UP police," the Congress said on Twitter, using the hashtag JusticeForIndiasDaughters".

Rahul Gandhi earlier questioned senior UP cops under which law was he being stopped by them as he wanted to walk alone towards Hathras to meet the rape victims family.

Can you tell me under which law can you stop me from marching towards Hathras," he told the cops. I want to go alone to Hathras and on what basis can you arrest me," he added, to which the cops told him that he had violated Section 188 of the IPC of disobeying the orders promulgated by the government during the pandemic.

Congress leader Randeep Surjewala put out a video along with a tweet showing Rahul Gandhi allegedly being roughed up as he marched forward on the Yamuna Expressway. Pictures of him falling down in the melee were shared by the Congress.

Lala Lajpat Rai had said that every blow of a stick on my body would prove to be the last nail in the coffin of the British Raj. The sticks on Rahul ji and Priyanka jis convoy will also prove to be the last nail in the coffin of the Yogi government," Surjewala said in a tweet in Hindi.

Congress leader P Chidambaram also alleged that none of the countrys laws seemed to apply to the UP police. UP police is a law into itself. None of the laws of the country seem to apply to it," he alleged.

What is wrong if the leaders of a political party protest against a gruesome crime and wish to visit the victims family," he asked on Twitter. Chidambaram said the two leaders were not violent, they did not carry arms and they were lodging a peaceful protest. Why should the police stop them from protesting peacefully? Why should the UP police arrest the two leaders and take them away?" I hope the court where the leaders will be produced will release them," he said. The Gandhis were seeking to walk down from Greater Noida to Hathras after their vehicles were stopped by the police.

After walking for some time, they were stopped by the police. A large number of Congress workers and leaders were accompanying them during their march.
By Nick Parker

parkerni2@grinnell.edu

According to those involved with the investigation into the murder of Michael Williams, things moved quickly after his body was found near Kellogg, Iowa, on Sept. 16.

We were moving in the right direction pretty early on in this, and thats important to know, said Adam DeCamp, who was brought in from the Iowa Department of Criminal Investigations (DCI) as the Special Agent in Charge of the case.

Charges were announced against four suspects last Wednesday, just six days after the investigation began on Sept. 16.

One factor that contributed to the quick apprehension of the suspects was that Steven Vogel, the only individual accused of 1st degree murder, was already in police custody on a prior parole violation before the investigation began, according to court documents and police statements.

Another factor that helped determine the speed of the investigation was the amount of resources allotted to it.

Iowa has a policy of municipal home rule, which means that the jurisdiction to conduct a criminal investigation rests primarily within the locality where that crime was committed. Since Michael Williams body was found in Jasper County, the Jasper County Sheriffs office had initial authority. One of their first actions was to seek the assistance of the Iowa Department of Criminal Investigations, a request-only division of Iowa law enforcement which helps augment local police forces and bolster their investigative capacities.

We do not come in and forcefully insert ourselves into investigations, said DeCamp. Jasper County sheriffs office requested DCI, because we provide expertise, but also because we provide manpower and resources at no charge to the local agency.

DeCamp estimated that between 10 and 12 DCI agents and criminalists contributed to the case. DCI also helped process evidence at its criminalistics lab.

In addition to DCI, dozens of law enforcement officers from Poweshiek, Jasper and neighboring counties worked on the case. Iowa state patrol and the state drug task force also contributed officers and resources. In total, DeCamp estimated that over 50 officers worked on the case. For reference, Grinnell Police Department has 14 officers when fully staffed.

In the state of Iowa, a typical homicide investigation generally involves between 12 and 16 officers, according to DeCamp. The resources allocated to this investigation were very significant, said DeCamp. He continued, The number of hours that have been put in on this investigation, I cant even tell you.

From an early stage, DeCamp said that DCI and other elements of law enforcement worked to be as transparent as possible with the local community. Although officials stated at Tuesdays press conference that they did not believe race was a contributing factor in the homicide, they still considered its implications.

In a case like this, said DeCamp, we acknowledged early on that it could potentially receive national attention, but [that] it was definitely going to receive local attention. And so what we did is we made the conscious effort to reach out to members of the Black community, through the NAACP, to provide them the information, because we believe that transparency is paramount.

The number of hours that have been put in on this investigation, I cant even tell you.  Adam DeCamp

As the investigation moves into its next stage, the focus will shift to building a successful case against the four individuals suspected of taking part in or aiding the murder. Given the severity of the charges, particularly against Vogel, its likely a verdict could still be a long way away.

The trial of Cristhian Rivera, who is facing similar charges to Vogel for the 2018 murder of Mollie Tibbetts in Poweshiek county, will not see its first court date until 2021.

Although every criminal defendant in Iowa has the right to a trial by their peers within 90 days of being charged, this right is often waived in homicide cases as both sides seek to build the strongest case possible.

I would say my experience tells me it is more likely to take 10 months or longer before a case sees a [trial], said DeCamp, Especially because of the severity of this.
GE Healthcare has announced the launch of the AI DReAM project, a consortium that gathers French SMEs, start-ups, research labs and clinical centres to facilitate the development of AI in medical imaging.



Supported with 13 million by the Investments for the Future program (PIA), led by the French General Secretariat for Investment and operated by Bpifrance, AI DReAM aims at improving diagnosis accuracy, patients care pathway and efficiency of healthcare systems.



Within this project, GE Healthcare will develop an advanced visualization platform with 2D/3D annotation tools to quickly analyze images generated by medical imaging equipment, a 'Software Development Kit' (SDK) to develop clinical and therapeutic applications or research applications, and a technology framework that meets regulatory requirements for the development of medical applications and ensures transparency of learning data, robust learning and traceability of decision-making.



The consortium, led by GE Healthcare, brings together SME Evolucare, Start-ups Therapanacea and Pixyl), Institut Curie, French Paris group of hospital AP-HP, leading European Cancer Center Gustave Roussy and the Paris Hospital Saint Joseph Foundation who will partner on several clinical case studies to help build the platform and tools to accelerate AI projects.



Advances in medical imaging constantly increase our knowledge of diseases and their treatments, creating a surge in the amount of data generated. For each patient to benefit from the promises of personalized medicine, new AI-based tools are needed to aggregate, standardize and make sense of this data quickly.



However, the development of AI applications in medical imaging requires access to large amounts of high-quality annotated data, advanced design visualization capabilities and the ability to trace the development and learnings  which can be a challenge for smaller AI players. AI DReAM aims at leveraging AI know-how and capabilities to accelerate the development of AI solutions and help structure an AI healthcare ecosystem.



Our aim is to create the tools that will facilitate large scale data annotation and algorithm design, testing and validation to cut cycle development time for AI start-ups, researchers or radiologists who wish to create AI applications for medical imaging, explained Baptiste Perrin, AI DReAM project leader at GE Healthcare.



Several applications are already under development as part of this project, including around the management of liver cancer with artificial intelligence characterization tools, the diagnosis and prognosis of lung diseases, the accuracy and personalization of treatments for brain cancer or patient follow-up.



The implementation of use cases with the partners will ensure that the platform is adequate for more projects in multiple clinical areas. Eventually, it will be offered to other partners using medical imaging.



AI DReAM leverages GE Healthcare's Edison intelligence platform designed to help achieve greater efficiency, improve patient outcomes, and increase access to care  by accelerating the adoption of advanced applications and services across the health system.  TradeArabia News Service


First 21 underground holes drilled, totalling 1,425.6 metres of a 42,500-metre drilling program.

High sample assay results on the Beaufor property include 783 g/t Au over 0.2 metres and 293 g/t Au over 0.5 metres.

Four underground drill rigs are currently testing "near-mine" exploration targets.

The drilling program is being supervised by Christian Tessier, P.Geo., Monarch Gold's new Geology Superintendent at the Beaufor Mine.

MONTREAL, QC / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / MONARCH GOLD CORPORATION ("Monarch" or the "Corporation") (TSX:MQR)(OTCQX:MRQRF)(FRANKFURT:MR7) is pleased to announce the first set of results from its 2020 exploration diamond drilling program on its wholly-owned Beaufor Mine project, 20 kilometres northeast of Val-d'Or. The results include a significant number of high-grade assays, including 783 g/t over 0.2 metres and 293 g/t Au over 0.5 metres.

The Beaufor Mine initially began commercial production in the early 1930's and over the years has produced over 1.1 million ounces of gold. The mine is currently on care and maintenance, which has given Monarch an opportunity to complete a 3D compilation and a program to identify, define and drill targets throughout the mine area. In June 2020, the Corporation initiated a 42,500-metre diamond drilling program to test two types of targets: the areas around historical high-grade intersections near the existing underground infrastructure, and isolated resource blocks, which are typically defined by a single drill intersection. These "near-mine" targets can be tested from the existing underground workings, generally by holes less than 200 metres long. Currently, 275 holes are being drilled at 25-metre centres, and if positive results are received, additional holes will be drilled to allow the zones in question to be converted into reserves and included in a future mine plan.

The drilling program is being overseen by Christian Tessier, P. Geo., hired in July as Monarch's Geology Superintendent for the Beaufor Mine project. Christian has over 10 years of experience as a mine geologist and was Senior Mine Geologist at the Canadian Malartic mine, where he worked for the last nine years. Prior to that, he worked for Richmont Mines for two years, where he was in charge of grade control, face mapping, long-hole stope design and diamond drill hole planning for Richmont's Island Gold Mine. Mr. Tessier has a B.Sc. in Resource Geology from the Universite du Quebec a Montreal.

Assay results have been received for the first 21 holes, representing just 3% of the planned metres of drilling. Seven holes intersected anomalous gold mineralization, which is considered good given the characteristic nuggety-style gold distribution. The best intersections are shown in the table below. Several of the holes have multiple intersections due to the stacked nature of the mineralization. The intersection widths reported are core lengths and high-grade intersections have not been capped, as the vein interpretation and statistics have not been finalized for the zones. The locations of the new mineralized intersections are shown in figures 1, 2 and 3.

"The Beaufor property started production over 87 years ago and has yet to reveal all of its gold potential," said Jean-Marc Lacoste, President and Chief Executive Officer of Monarch. "We plan to identify it with the help of Christian Tessier, our new senior geologist, who has solid underground drilling experience with Canadian Malartic and at Richmont's Island Gold Mine, where he started his career. These new high-grade intersections demonstrate that significant veins and vein extensions still exist. Our ultimate goal is to restart gold production at the Beaufor Mine within 12 to 18 months to take advantage of the very favourable gold market."

Monarch has also been taking advantage of the care and maintenance period at Beaufor to test a new technology, a prototype teleoperation system designed by Meglab (www.meglab.ca), on one of Beaufor's mine Caterpillar shuttle loaders.

"Monarch is always open to testing new technologies that could eventually help us explore and produce more efficiently, at the lowest possible cost," said Mr. Lacoste. "We have achieved outstanding results with Meglab's technology in the past few months, and we think it could prove very useful once operations resume at the mine."

Best results for the Beaufor Mine property, 2020 drilling program (first set of assays):

Hole From (m) To (m) Width* (m) Au (g/t) 20-122-137 7.30 9.35 2.05 3.5 20-122-138 22.40 22.90 0.50 15.8 20-132-55 44.80 68.00 47.40 70.30 2.60 2.30 13.4 7.0 20-133-69 Including 2.60 3.10 99.70 109.95 3.60 3.60 105.80 110.75 1.00 0.50 6.10 0.80 152.0 293.0 1.5 18.1 20-133-70 64.15 102.90 64.35 105.50 0.20 2.60 783.0 11.2 20-151-17 0.00 5.15 5.15 3.3 20-151-20 42.78 43.08 0.30 172.0

*The width shown is the core length. True width is yet to be determined.

Collar coordinates:

Hole number Azimuth () Dip () Length (m) Mine E Mine N Elevation (m) 20-122-137 146 74 22.95 3931 5008 2521 20-122-138 137 47 40.30 3931 5008 2521 20-132-55 328 -49 77.50 2142 3084 2741 20-133-69 45 -64 132.00 3919 4854 2742 20-133-70 69 -47 119.35 3919 4854 2742

Sampling consists of sawing the core into equal halves along its main axis and shipping one of the halves to the ALS Canada in Val-d'Or, Quebec, for assaying. The samples are crushed, pulverized and assayed by fire assay, with atomic absorption finish. Results exceeding 3.0 g/t Au are re-assayed using the gravity method, and samples containing visible gold grains are assayed using the metallic screen method. Monarch uses a comprehensive QA/QC protocol, including the insertion of standards and blanks.

The technical and scientific content of this press release has been reviewed and approved by Christian Tessier, P.Geo., the Corporation's qualified person under National Instrument 43-101.

ABOUT MONARCH GOLD CORPORATION

Monarch Gold Corporation (TSX: MQR) is an emerging gold mining company focused on becoming a 100,000 to 200,000 ounce per year gold producer through its large portfolio of high-quality projects in the Abitibi mining camp in Quebec, Canada. The Corporation currently owns over 315 km of gold properties (see map), including the Wasamac deposit (measured and indicated resource of 2.6 million ounces of gold, which includes proven and probable reserves of 1.8 million ounces of gold), the Beaufor, Croinor Gold (see video), and McKenzie Break advanced projects, the Camflo and Swanson exploration projects, and the Camflo and Beacon mills. It also offers custom milling services out of its 1,600 tonne-per-day Camflo mill.

Forward-Looking Statements

The forward-looking statements in this press release involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Monarch's actual results, performance and achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements expressed or implied therein. Neither TSX nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Jean-Marc Lacoste 1-888-994-4465

President and Chief Executive Officer jm.lacoste@monarquesgold.com

Mathieu Seguin 1-888-994-4465

Vice President, Corporate Development m.seguin@monarquesgold.com

Elisabeth Tremblay 1-888-994-4465

Senior Geologist - Communications Specialist e.tremblay@monarquesgold.com

SOURCE: Monarch Gold Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/608640/Monarch-Gold-Intersects-783-GT-AU-Over-02-Metres-and-293-GT-AU-Over-05-Metres-at-the-Beaufor-Property
Satellite data reveal variability in intensity of groundwater use for different crops, a boon for irrigation policymaking across the state

Researchers at the University of California San Diego report in a new study a way to improve groundwater monitoring by using a remote sensing technology (known as InSAR), in conjunction with climate and land cover data, to bridge gaps in the understanding of sustainable groundwater in California's San Joaquin Valley.

Their work could be revolutionary for managing groundwater use in agricultural regions around the world, as groundwater monitoring and management have been notoriously difficult to carry out due to lack of reliable data.

The satellite-based InSAR (interferometric synthetic aperture radar) is used to make high-resolution maps of land surface motion in space and time, including measurement of subsidence (or sinking). Subsidence can occur when large amounts of groundwater are removed from underground stores, called aquifers.

The study, published in the journal Environmental Research Letters, took advantage of the incredibly fine-scale resolution of InSAR to evaluate subsidence patterns according to crop type, revealing surprising results. For example, despite reports of high water consumption by fruit and nut crops in California, the crop types with the greatest rates of subsidence, and by association the greatest rates of groundwater use, were field crops such as corn and soy, followed by pasture crops like alfalfa, truck crops like tomatoes, and lastly, fruit and nut crops like almonds and grapes.

"Our initial hypothesis was that fruit and nut crops would be associated with some of the highest rates of subsidence, but we found the opposite," said study lead author, Morgan Levy, an assistant professor with a joint appointment with UC San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography and School of Global Policy and Strategy.

Because displacement is a response to groundwater storage change in locations with varying geology, soils and vegetation, the interpretation of InSAR varies across locations, unlike satellite measurements of climate that have the same interpretation in any location. Therefore, InSAR must be combined with other sources of geophysical data to achieve location-specific insight into groundwater use.

By combining InSAR with other land surface datasets including land cover, potential evapotranspiration (a measure of plant water demand), and the location of surface water supply networks, UC San Diego researchers found that between 2015 and 2017, subsidence occurred at much higher rates in irrigated cultivated land compared to undeveloped land, and in dry surface water-limited years relative to wet years.

Over the study period, there was a median 272 millimeters (or 16 inches) of total cumulative subsidence for field crops (like corn and soy), and a dry water year subsidence rate of 131 millimeters (5 inches) per year. For fruit and nut crops, (like almonds and grapes) there was a median 62 millimeters (2.5 inches) of total subsidence over the study period, and a dry water year subsidence rate of 31 millimeters (1 inch) per year.

"The outcome might be explained by two things. First, on average fruits and nuts require less water physiologically, compared to field and pasture crops. Second, field and pasture crops tend to use irrigation methods that are less efficient and higher-volume than those used by fruit and nut crops," Levy said. "However, fruits and nuts may still consume greater total volumes of water because they occupy more land area, even if their groundwater use intensity is less."

Methods and findings from this research could be used to support the state's ongoing effort to prevent overdraft of groundwater aquifers. Groundwater is a critical resource both nationally and globally: In the U.S., groundwater is a source of drinking water for roughly half of the population, and constitutes the largest source of irrigation water for agriculture. Irrigation accounts for approximately 70 percent of total U.S. groundwater withdrawals, and California has the highest rates of groundwater pumping in the nation.

"Our findings indicate that in the Central Valley, the costs and benefits of transitions away from field crops and towards fruit and nut crops in recent years are more complex than typically assumed," Levy added. "Our results suggest the possibility that transitions to fruit and nut cultivation might be desirable, at least from a groundwater sustainability perspective, although more research is needed to confirm this."

Global potential to advance groundwater monitoring and management

California is an example of a semi-arid and irrigation-dependent climate for agriculture. Coordinated efforts from the UC San Diego team of climate scientists and geophysicists to link subsidence, groundwater and surface water use, and crop production data across comparable time and space scales has tremendous potential to advance groundwater monitoring and management in agricultural regions in other parts of the world, said the authors.

In the San Joaquin Valley during wet years, farmers may receive up to 100 percent of their surface water allocations, while in extremely dry years, they may receive none. When surface water supplies are unavailable, farmers mine groundwater. Thus, groundwater has become increasingly important under climate change, as California and many parts of the world have experienced surface water shortages. However, excessive pumping does occur, even in relatively wet years. And, aquifers can run out.

In 2014, California passed legislation mandating a gradual, locally led shift towards sustainable use of groundwater--the resource on which 85 percent of its population and much of its $50-billon agriculture industry rely. The data from InSAR can be critical to the state's efforts to perform effective monitoring and management in response to climate change.

While the legislation has encouraged local agencies to begin to use InSAR for documenting land subsidence, uses of InSAR for direct monitoring of groundwater use are early in their development. The UC San Diego research efforts provide an example of how water managers might use satellite data sources, including InSAR, to directly monitor local relationships between subsidence, groundwater pumping and crop portfolios.

"The promise of InSAR lies in our ability to combine it with other sources of geophysical and social data to answer water policy-relevant questions," Levy and co-authors wrote. "We provide a preview of the power of such a synthesis, demonstrating that spatial patterns of subsidence and their relationship to agricultural cultivation and associated water demand are clear and robust."

They concluded, "Our findings suggest that policy levers supporting sustainable groundwater management might benefit from consideration of the groundwater use intensity of crop selection, not only the difficult-to-define sustainability of groundwater extraction volumes over groundwater aquifer boundaries that remain uncertain and that are costly to delineate."

###

This study was made possible by open data policies for the European Space Agency's Sentinel-1 SAR missions and other open data sources. The satellite-based InSAR (interferometric synthetic aperture radar) dataset used by the researchers was constructed with synthetic aperture radar (SAR) acquisitions from the European Space Agency's Sentinel-1 missions and augmented by the National Science Foundation's Plate Boundary Observatory (PBO) network of ground-located continuous Global Positioning System (cGPS) stations.

Co-authors include Adrian Borsa, associate professor at Scripps Oceanography, Jennifer Burney, associate professor of environmental science at the School of Global Policy and Strategy, and Wesley Neely, a Ph.D. student at Scripps Oceanography.

The research was funded by the National Science Foundation's Innovations at the Nexus of Food, Energy and Water Systems program, the NASA Earth and Space Science Fellowship and NASA's support for the NISAR mission science team, as well as the School of Global Policy and Strategy's Big Pixel initiative. The initiative leverages practices in geospatial data visualization, user experience interfaces, and design techniques for scientific discovery and policy decision-making.
Heavy trucks could be allowed to operate daily and at all hours down a Woolloongabba street behind the Princess Alexandra Hospital under a Cross River Rail proposal to fast-track construction.

The Cross River Rail Delivery Authority recently submitted a request for change to the Coordinator-General to allow heavy trucks to use Kent Street, past Dutton Park train station, to access Cornwall Street and Annerley Road, at all hours rather than existing limits to 10pm.

Kent Street would be used by heavy trucks every day and at all hours under a Cross River Rail proposal. Credit:Google Maps

The rail project needs to set up a Boggo Road train station worksite on the eastern side of the railway line, behind the hospital, and wants the change to help complete that work and remove existing Queensland Rail buildings.

A CRRDA spokesman said, if approved, there would be an average of four heavy vehicles on Kent Street an hour, in addition to the eight light vehicles an hour now allowed.
Two British prime ministers  Robert Peel and William Gladstone  are among top politicians who directly benefited from slave trade and indentured labour in India, America, West Indies and elsewhere, according to a major review of parliamentary art in Westminster released on Thursday.

Initial findings in the ongoing review supported by House of Commons speaker Lindsay Hoyle reveal that at least 232 items of over 9,500 works in the Parliamentary Art Collection have links to the transatlantic slave trade over the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries.

Spurred by the Black Lives Movement, the parliamentary art review is part of similar efforts by several museums, art galleries and other large collections in the UK in recent months to reconsider the approach to managing the collection and how to broaden its diversity and inclusion.

The Speakers Advisory Committee on Works of Art said: British involvement in the transatlantic slave trade began in 1562, and by the 1730s Britain was the biggest slave-trading nation in the world.

The abolition movement in Britain, and the acts of resistance and rebellion by enslaved Africans in the Colonies, led to the abolition of first the trade, and then the use of enslaved labour in British colonies by Acts of Parliament in 1807 and 1833.

However, many British people continued to have direct financial gain from the trading and use of enslaved labour and indentured labour in the West Indies, America, India and elsewhere, it added.

Of the 232 items identified so far, 189 depict 24 people who had ties to the slave trade and 40 pieces depict 14 people who worked to abolish slavery. Peel was twice prime minister (1834-35 and 1841-46), while Gladstone held the office over four terms between 1868 and 1894.

Besides Peel and Gladstone, the list of MPs who had financial or family interests in transatlantic slave trade and slavery includes Henry Dundas (1742-1811), who was president of the Board of Control of the East India Company.

Items linked to those who campaigned to abolish slavery include William Wilberforce (1759-1833), who also pushed for Christian evangelism in colonial India in parliamentary debates during the renewal of the East India Companys charter in 1793 and 1813.

The small number of artworks linked to non-white MPs include a painting and images of the first three Indian MPs in the House of Commons in the late 19th and early 20th centuries: Dadabhai Naoroji (Finsbury Central), Mancherjee Bhownagree (Bethnal Green North East) and Shapurji Saklatvala (Battersea North).

The committee said: There is no definitive list of MPs with close connections to the transatlantic trade, or those who had financial interests in the use of enslaved labour and indentured labour in the West Indies, America, India and elsewhere.

However, they will be numerous, and some will be included in artworks on display in Parliament. There are also instances of MPs whose views changed over their time in Parliament, for example those with economic interests in the use of enslaved peoples and the slave trade who later fought for abolition.

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White House spokeswoman Kayleigh McEnany repeatedly refused Thursday to denounce white supremacists and insisted that President Donald Trump had spoken against racism at the chaotic presidential debate Tuesday.

After ticking off a list of times that Trump denounced white supremacy, McEnany said Trump responded appropriately at the debate when he said the Proud Boys should stand by amid racial justice protests nationwide.

No, he did not misspeak, McEnany said.

In a fiery press briefing, McEnany repeatedly derided journalists for supposedly spreading #FakeNews about Trump and accused them of a double standard for interrupting her when she dodged questions.

The media goes haywire about interruptions at the debate but does the very same thing at this briefing, said McEnany, referring to widespread public criticism of Trumps repeatedly interrupting debate rival Joe Biden and moderator Chris Wallace.

John Roberts of the usually Trump-friendly Fox News launched an extraordinary angry on-air defense of the questioning.

Its a question that needs to be asked, and clearly (Republicans) are looking for an answer for it too, Roberts, the typically stoic White House correspondent, told a Fox anchor in a live segment. So stop deflecting. Stop blaming the media. Im tired of it.

McEnany also firmly defended Trumps plans to stage mass rallies in coronavirus hot spots in battleground Wisconsin, despite pleas from public health experts to avoid gatherings in places where the virus is spreading virtually unchecked.

There are two standards: one for Trump supporters and one for everyone else, McEnany said, shrugging off concerns about the spread of COVID-19. Somehow political speech is not vital if you are a Trump supporter.

The president plans to hold rallies in Green Bay and La Crosse over the weekend. Both metro areas are grappling with deadly coronavirus outbreaks with Green Bay ranked No. 3 and La Crosse at No. 11 in the list of most cases in the entire nation during the past week.

Story continues



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GREAT BEND, Kansas - The first honk comes just after someone asks a question about wind power. One pickup truck pulls into the parking lot, then another - until eight floats flying Trump flags have joined the parade. Men in "Make America Great Again" hats slam their fists against their horns. When a police officer tells them to lay off, they begin shouting from rolled-down windows.

"Honk. Honk, honk, honk, honk."

The caravan has convened with a clear goal: If Kansas Democratic Senate candidate Barbara Bollier wants to bring her message to Great Bend - the rural hometown of her opponent, where President Trump won with 77% of the vote - then she is going to have to yell.

Instead, Bollier smiles, lifting up from her orthopedic sandals to edge a little closer to the microphone.

"Let's wave at them, guys," she says to the crowd of 120 people who have gathered to hear her speak on a Saturday afternoon in September. Bollier waves like she is greeting a friend.

"Wouldn't it have been nicer if they had come in and visited?" she asks. "Because we have a lot to talk about."

A Democrat has not won a U.S. Senate seat in Kansas since 1932. The state is overwhelmingly Republican, considered an easy win for President Trump in November. And yet, polls show Bollier and her opponent, Rep. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, in a dead heat. A moderate Republican who became a Democrat in 2018 - and is backed by almost 100 current and former Republican state legislators - Bollier is casting herself as a "sensible centrist" who couldn't stomach an increasingly ideological Republican Party. Her campaign is a testing ground for true moderate politics: In a state where Trump reigns, how many Republicans would prefer to return to the middle of the road, even if that means voting for a Democrat?

Bollier is a 62-year-old doctor and mother of two, with a wispy bob she coaxes into place with a thin plastic comb she keeps tucked in her purse. She dresses "sensibly" in cotton T-shirts and button-up cardigans from Talbots and L.L. Bean, wearing the same necklace every day: a diamond the size of a pinprick, strung through a simple gold chain.

She calls herself an "eternal optimist," who often says she likes to "catch people being good." She says she believes in an ideal many Americans have long abandoned: If you put any two people in a room - a MAGA honker and a lifelong Democrat - and make them talk for long enough, they will be able to find some common ground.

Bollier is employing the same strategy that delivered the Kansas governor's mansion to Democrat Laura Kelly in 2018. She hands out signs that say "Republicans for Barbara Bollier." Her most circulated television ads feature Republican legislators in cowboy hats, who say they plan to vote against their party for the very first time. One Republican assures viewers: "It's okay to vote for a Democrat."

Abortion has become the central issue of Marshall's campaign: He is antiabortion, while Bollier has always supported abortion rights. At campaign events, voters frequently ask about the attack ads that Marshall is running against Bollier, calling her a "heartless" extremist who supports late-term abortion. Mailers juxtapose Bollier's face with a picture of a fetus.

"It's effective," said Joyce Warshaw, the Republican mayor of Dodge City, Kan. "People here will just tell you that the abortion issue is their focus. Anyone who will do away with abortion will get their vote."

The audience in Great Bend has not been swayed by Marshall's ads. When Bollier is done speaking, they leap from their seats, chanting her name. These are the Democrats and moderate Republicans who, for years, have not felt like they could speak up, says Kathy Davis, a Democrat from Great Bend - because they never thought they had a real shot.

"It draws a stark contrast," said Dan Heath, another Great Bend Democrat. "You had somebody talking about how we need to work together, regardless of how disparate our ideas are, being drowned out by someone yelling, 'honk honk.'"

Davis was glad to see so many Trump supporters today, she said: It bodes well for Bollier.

"They think we can win."

- - -

The political parties break down a little differently in Kansas. There are three major parties here, legislators tend to agree: the Republicans, the Democrats and the "mods." As the tea party has strengthened across the state since the early 2010s, moderate Republicans have distanced themselves from their Trump-backing brethren, regularly siding with the Democrats.

"Moderate Republicans like this don't really exist in other states in the same way," said Linda Gallagher, a former state representative who identifies as a "mod." "We're just trying to plod through the middle, which I think is the way most people are."

Bollier, a state senator, comes from a long line of moderate Republican women in Kansas: suburban professionals, many of whom, like Bollier, rose up through the ranks of Parent Teacher Associations. From 1978 to 1997, the seat Bollier is seeking was held by Sen. Nancy Kassebaum, a Republican who supports abortion rights - who Bollier regularly refers to as her role model. Another Republican who supports abortion rights, Shelia Frahm, served in the U.S. Senate in the '90s.

In the state legislature, conservative Republicans have been systematically working to unseat their moderate colleagues. But not all moderates are targeted equally, said Stephanie Clayton, a Democratic state representative who switched parties soon after Bollier.

"There was something about women like me and Barbara," she said. "I think it's some sort of deep tribal thing: You're not doing what you're told. You're not fulfilling your gender role."

As a Republican in the state legislature, Bollier would often split with her party on key votes, especially on women's reproductive health. The only doctor in the state Senate, Bollier was uniquely capable of aggravating conservatives, Clayton said, able to back up her positions with a level of authority no one else could claim. The conservative Republicans would heckle her when she stood up to speak, rolling their eyes whenever she referenced her experience as a physician. One Republican referred to Bollier as "Josef Mengele," the Nazi doctor who performed lethal experiments on Jews.

When Bollier endorsed Kelly for governor a few weeks before the 2018 election, the Republicans took her off the health committee. She found out on Twitter.

For the first few months of her Senate campaign, Bollier said, she struggled to invoke her credentials as a physician, remembering how her Republican colleagues had mocked her expertise.

"It took me months to be able to say, without hesitation, 'And as a physician, I feel . . . '"

The intensity of the Republican reaction was a testament to the sway Bollier holds in the legislature, Clayton said.

"She made them angry just by existing."

When the politics got ugly, Bollier would turn to "Intentionally Being Women Together" - "IBWT" for short. Thirty years ago, she and five women from her Presbyterian church decided to start having explicit conversations about their lives and what they wanted out of them. They met weekly, now monthly. Once a year, they leave their kids and partners behind to smell the bluebonnets in Texas or fly down an alpine slide in Colorado. There is always time for the big questions: What was most meaningful in your life this year? How did you struggle?

IBWT isn't a Bible study or a book club, said Kathy Burdette, Bollier's longtime friend. They wanted nothing to do with their church "women's circle," she said, where members met to swap recipes. There would be no premeeting house cleanings for IBWT, they agreed - no Martha Stewart-style canapes.

"We are about being women, together and intentionally," Bollier said. "I mean, that's how we got the name."

When Bollier announced to the group that she was switching parties, IBWT was in full agreement, Burdette said.

"It was time."

After Trump was elected, Bollier had expected at least some conservatives to break from the president, making it clear they identified as a different kind of Republican. She couldn't believe how few were willing to speak out against his policies. The "last straw," she said, was when the Kansas Republican Party formally came out against transgender people, asserting as part of its official platform that God only created "male" and "female."

"I kept saying, 'Why isn't anyone standing up?' So finally I said, 'I can stand up. I will lead.'"

When Bollier announced her switch, she set off a chain reaction. Clayton announced that she was joining the Democratic Party a few days later, along with another female Kansas Republican. A few months after that, Iowa's longest-serving Republican legislator did the same thing.

"We didn't coordinate that," Bollier said. "We hadn't even discussed it."

The story went national, covered by media outlets including NBC and NPR. No one expected that to happen, Clayton said. She has often wondered why so many people were interested in what "some rando state legislators did."

"Kansas moderate women have pretty tough hides on us," Clayton said.

Maybe people cared that they took a stand, she said, because no national Republican was brave enough to do the same.

When Bollier pulls up to her event in northeast Wichita, people are dancing. There is hip-hop music blaring from light-up speakers, pulsing red and purple. The crowd sits in lawn chairs outside the Dunbar, a historic movie theater at the heart of Wichita's largest Black neighborhood. A wall mural behind the makeshift stage pays tribute to some of the greats: Louis Armstrong, Jackie Robinson, Billie Holiday.

There are 20 Black people in the crowd of 70, far more than there's been at any other event this weekend. Less than 6% of the state is Black. Much of that population is concentrated in Wichita.

Mary Dean and Karen Wright, Black women and longtime friends, have come here tonight because they are skeptical.

"She was a Republican at one time, and now she's jumped ship over to the Democrats," said Wright, a lifelong Democrat. "But that doesn't mean that she has my vote."

When Bollier opens the floor for questions, Dean raises her hand right away. She asks Bollier to commit to hiring a Black woman on her staff if she is elected.

"Oh, I'm committed to having any kind of person, as long as they're ready to get to work and do the hard work for Kansans," Bollier says. "If I have good Black people there, of course I will hire them."

Bollier tries to move on, but Dean - now without a microphone - starts shouting.

"Please be specific, be specific. Don't filibuster."

Bollier talks over Dean and, now, Wright, who are both urging her to answer the question directly.

"I appreciate your opinion, ma'am," Bollier finally stops to say. "I will bring on as many people as I can."

Whenever Bollier is asked about Black Lives Matter, she lifts her hand. "As a White woman," she says, "I will raise my hand and admit that I have not done enough to listen to my Black brothers and sisters." Something needs to be done, she says, because "Black lives do matter."

But to Dean and Wright, her proposed solutions seem "evasive." Bollier supports peaceful protests, she says - but "of course," she adds, "none of us support violence." When she's asked for her position on police funding at an event the next day, she laughs.

"Defund the police," she says to the almost exclusively White crowd, gathered beside a glistening lake in a well-manicured subdivision. "What a myth."

Bollier is "dancing on a fine line," Dean says: Trying to win over Republicans, while maintaining the support of Democrats, especially the state's Black voters. Dean can guess at why Bollier didn't answer her question with a firm commitment. If she had promised to hire a Black woman, Dean said sadly, that might have cost her Republican votes.

Marshall has tried to go after Bollier on protests and police funding, running commercials that claim she would "devastate law enforcement" and "jeopardize our safety." But that's been a tough argument to make, Clayton says, because Bollier holds such moderate positions on those issues.

It's much easier to go after her on abortion.

"That's red meat, man," Clayton said. "They can't get her on anything else."

Even as a Republican, Bollier never wavered on abortion: Planned Parenthood was the first organization that Bollier and her husband donated to as a married couple. Abortion should be a private decision between a woman and her doctor, Bollier has always said. Even in the late stages of a pregnancy, if a woman finds out that her baby has a fatal condition, Bollier says, she should have the option to terminate.

If Bollier loses this election, it will be because of her position on abortion, several current and former state legislators said. It has always been a key issue in Kansas, the home state of Operation Rescue, the antiabortion group famous for murdering abortion providers and blowing up clinics. The last time a Democrat was in a tight race for a U.S. Senate seat here, in 1974, he lost after his opponent began attacking him on abortion.

At the state capitol, Bollier's Republican colleagues will often invoke their faith on issues like abortion and gay rights. Faith is important to Bollier, too - she's gone to church her entire life.

Bollier is not the type to accept religious teachings without question, Burdette said. In the state legislature, where Bollier has served since 2010, a chaplain will often open sessions with a prayer. The chaplain would always address "father God," Bollier said. Years ago, she asked if they would sometimes pray to the "mother."

When the chaplain refused - slack-jawed at the question - Bollier suggested another term: "creator."

It wasn't quite the female religious empowerment that Bollier had been hoping for. But it didn't entirely leave women out, either.

The compromise has endured, Bollier said: The Kansas state Senate will still pray to the creator.

No one can remember the last time that a Democrat running for U.S. Senate came to Great Bend. One hundred miles to the east, in rural Butler county, sixth-generation poultry farmer Ryon Carey says the same thing.

"Democrats haven't won a seat here since 1932 because they really haven't tried."

When Bollier steps out of her car - clutching the rim of her periwinkle hat to save it from the swirling prairie wind - local farmers are lined up to talk to her. They want to tell her about the importance of funding local hospitals - and how they actually think the Green New Deal could be a good idea.

When Trump claims to be helping farmers, they say, he is talking about industrial farmers: The vast majority of rural Kansans are eager for some kind of change. But the only station you can get on your tractor plays staunchly conservative "farm talk radio." If farmers out here really understood their options, they say, maybe she could turn Trump country blue.

Bollier sits on a hay bale, farm cat on her lap, and listens.
Syndicated and guest columns represent the personal views of the writers, not necessarily those of the editorial staff. The editorial department operates entirely independently of the news department and is not involved in newsroom operations.
Berry Global Group, Inc. (NYSE: BERY) announced today its Biesheim, France, facility has achieved International Sustainability and Carbon Certificate (ISCC). Berry has been awarded the certificate from SGS Germany GmbH, the world's leading inspection, verification, testing, and certification company. The certification enables the site to sell ISCC Plus certified nonwovens.

ISCC Plus is a supply chain certification for circular materials, both recycled and/or biobased, providing traceability along the supply chain, verifying that certified companies meet high environmental and social standards.

"As the leading nonwovens provider globally, we continue to advance our product offerings to customers," said Achim Schalk, EVP and General Manager, EMEIA, for the Health, Hygiene, and Specialties Division of Berry. "One of Berry's core values is sustainability, as we know it is for many customers. With this certification, we can now offer another level of certified, sustainable nonwoven materials."

The ISCC Plus certification is validating the "mass balance system" utilization in the supply chain, tracking the quantity and sustainability characteristics of circular and/or biobased content in the value chain and attribute it based on verifiable bookkeeping with predefined and transparent rules. This certification enables customers of Berry to certify their usage of mass balance raw materials as the entire supply chain has been evaluated.

With the ISCC Plus certification Berry can produce nonwovens substituting a percentage part or 100 percent of the virgin resin with certified circular polymers, delivering identical material performance as virgin feedstock. The new Berry sustainable nonwoven solutions maintain the usual properties for hygiene and medical applications, to be recycled or processed by other waste management systems. As a result of this certification, Berry will introduce new nonwoven solutions made with ISCC certified feedstock from biobased and/or recycled mixed sources with carbon footprint reduction.

About Berry

Berry Global Group, Inc. (NYSE: BERY), headquartered in Evansville, Indiana, is committed to its mission of 'Always Advancing to Protect What's Important,' and proudly partners with its customers to provide them with value-added protective solutions that are increasingly light-weighted and easier to recycle or reuse. The Company is a leading global supplier of a broad range of innovative rigid, flexible, and nonwoven products used every day within consumer and industrial end markets. Berry, a Fortune 500 company, has approximately 47,000 employees and generated $12.6 billion of pro forma net sales in fiscal year 2019, from operations that span over 290 locations on six continents. For additional information, visit Berry's website at berryglobal.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201001006134/en/

Contacts:

Berry Media Contact:

Amy Waterman

+1 812 306 2435

amywaterman@berryglobal.com



Investor Relations Contact:

Dustin Stilwell

+1 812 306 2964

ir@berryglobal.com
Learn how ST's portfolio of MEMS microphones enable dramatic advancements in any application requiring outstanding audio performance, small footprint, and low cost Watch now

Watch a 1-hour on-demand webinar where we introduce ST's portfolio of analog and digital MEMS microphones, and discuss how our best-in-class acoustic overload point (AOP) and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) make our MEMS microphones suitable for applications that require a very high dynamic rangeimproving the audio experience in any environment.

Very tight sensitivity-matching allows the optimization of algorithms for multi-microphone arrays available from ST and our partners, while low power consumption enables extended battery life.

Applications span from traditional laptop computers, speech recognition, gaming and virtual reality input devices to sensors for condition monitoring and predictive maintenance in industrial environments.

You will learn:

What a MEMS microphone is, and how its unique characteristics enable a broad range of industrial and consumer applications

About our wide variety of development resources and tools, including microphone coupon boards and integrated development kits

Where to find available example code to simplify development and reduce design time

Speakers

Kirby Atwater is a Product Marketing Staff Engineer with STMicroelectronics, supporting ST's MEMS sensors portfolio and low-power RF products in North America. Currently located in the Schaumburg, IL office, he joined ST in 2005 and has supported a wide variety of products to ST customers in the USA and Canada. Prior to joining ST, he was a Field Applications Engineer with STs distribution partners, and a project design engineer. Kirby graduated from Purdue University with a BSEE.
NEW YORK, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- quantilope is excited to announce that it has been recognized as a finalist for the Best Global Market Research Project and the Best Advertising Research Project in the Quirk's Awards for Marketing Research and Insight Excellence.

The Marketing Research and Insight Excellence Awards, powered by Quirk's Media, recognizes the researchers, suppliers, and products and services that are adding value and impact to marketing research. Finalists are selected by a panel of judges made up of a combination of end-client researchers, supplier partners, and Quirk's editorial staff.

quantilope is nominated for the Best Global Market Research Project with its Consumer NOW Index . Led by Max Cryns in the US and Renee Bracker in Germany, The Consumer NOW Index is a global consumer research tracker built to help brands stay connected to their consumers radically changing state of emotions and behaviors. From March 20th to June 3rd, 2020 the Consumer NOW Index ran 8 waves with 1,200 consumers across the US, UK, and Germany. Each wave used three advanced research methods including an automated Key Driver Analysis, MaxDiff, and an Implicit Association Test.

The project was built using a state-of-the-art multi-country tool to allow for a single survey set up that could be instantly launched in multiple markets. Results from each market and wave were hosted inside of the same project to easily and instantly compare results over time and between regions. In total, 16 surveys were launched between Germany and the US and 6 in the UK throughout the 8 waves.

quantilope is nominated for the Best Advertising Research Project with its own Ad Kings . Led by Alex Hall, Ad Kings is a research initiative seeking to provide the guidelines for running campaigns during a crisis  what to do, what not to do, and what seems to be resonating the best with consumers. Using automated Key Drivers Analysis and A/B Monadic tests, Ad Kings surveyed 1,200 US consumers testing the overall effectiveness of eight advertising campaigns launched during the pandemic from sectors including retail, CPG, travel, fast food, and technology. Each campaign was evaluated on their overall ad effectiveness and campaign sentiment scoring to identify the do's and don'ts of advertising during a crisis.

The award winners will be announced live at The Marketing Research and Insight Excellence Awards Virtual Ceremony on November 9, 2020. Please visit quirksawards.com for more details.

About quantilope: quantilope is an agile insights platform automating advanced research methodologies on an end-to-end platform. quantilope maps the entire market research process from the research question to the questionnaire design, professional panel management, live reporting, in-depth analysis, and data visualization. The average project turnaround time is 1  5 business days.

Media Contact:

Johanna Azis

[email protected]

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FILE PHOTO: Clare Bronfman, an heiress of the Seagram's liquor empire, arrives at the Brooklyn Federal Courthouse, for her trail regarding sex trafficking and racketeering related to the Nxivm cult in the Brooklyn borough of New York Reuters

Clare Bronfman, a member of the multi-level marketing scheme and alleged sex cult NXIVM, has been sentenced to 81 months in prison for immigration and ID theft.

Bronfman, 41, and her sister Sara are heiresses to their father's multimillion-dollar Seagram's liquor fortune.

Bronfman used her fortune to fund NXIVM lawsuits against people who chose to leave the organization and speak out about its manipulation tactics.

Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

Top-ranking NXIVM member and Seagram's liquor heiress Clare Bronfman was sentenced to 81 months in prison on Wednesday, on charges of concealing immigrants and ID fraud.

During her Brooklyn court appearance, she was also issued a fine of more than $500,000 and ordered to pay more than $96,000 to a migrant she brought to the US from Mexico, according to court documents obtained by Insider.

Bronfman pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to conceal and harbor illegal aliens for financial gain after the prosecution cited evidence that she had smuggled and harbored six undocumented NXIVM members for monetary gain, promising pay and work visas but providing neither to these members.

In an August letter to Judge Nicholas G. Garaufis, Bronfman said she was sorry for harming others, but that she still believed in NXIVM leader Keith Raniere, who was convicted last year of sex trafficking and conspiracy to commit forced labor.

"Many people, including most of my own family, believe I should disavow Keith and NXIVM, and that I have not is hard for them to understand and accept," Bronfman wrote. "However, for me, NXIVM and Keith greatly changed my life for the better."

Bronfman joined NXIVM, an alleged sex cult billed as a multi-level marketing company for self-improvement courses, in 2003 and rose to the top of its ranks as an executive board member 15 years later.

Before her prison sentence, Bronfman spent nearly $50 million on lawsuits on behalf of NXIVM. When former NXIVM members left the organization and spoke about the manipulation tactics its leaders used, they were often bombarded with lawsuits.

Story continues

The prosecution said Bronfman promised one of the migrants $3,600 a month for her work, but the woman, identified as Jane Doe, only received $4,195 total of the $96,000 she was promised.

"[It was very difficult to] keep up the pace [of my work] with no income and with the uncertainty of not knowing how I will live each day," Doe said in an interview with the prosecution.

Bronfman was also charged with ID fraud after pleading guilty for using the credit card and bank information of someone who had been dead for 15 months, racking up $135,000 in bills.

Bronfman was previously charged with racketeering, which she denied, in 2018. After posting bail for $100 million, she was released on house arrest.

Read the original article on Insider
Two Amish brothers from Missouri who were spared prison time last week after pleading guilty to downgraded charges for the rape of their 13-year-old sister could have their probation revoked for allegedly contacting the victim.

Aaron Schwartz, 22, and 18-year-old Petie Schwartz were back in Webster County Courthouse on Wednesday for a hearing after prosecutor Ben Berkstresser filed a motion accusing the brothers of violating the terms of their probation by having contact with their sister at her home.

The Schwartz brothers pleaded guilty to two counts of third-degree child molestation with a child under the age of 14, and were handed sentences totaling 15 years in prison, which were suspended as part of the plea agreement.

Aaron Schwartz, 22 (left), and Petie Schwartz, 18 (right) could be looking at 15 years in prison if a judge decides to revoke their probation for contacting their 13-year-old sister they raped

The pair and two of their younger brothers, both minors at the time, had had repeated sexual relations with their younger sister last year. The young girl was 12 and 13 years old at the time of the sexual acts.

Under the conditions of their probation, the brothers were barred from making any contact with the victim, but according to the prosecutor's motion filed last week, that is exactly what they did.

During Wednesday's probation hearing, the Schwartzes' defense lawyer Will Worsham that 'there has been no actual contact with the victim,' reported Springfield News-Leader.

The attorney further said that after meeting with their probation officer and being informed of a possible 'technical violation,' his clients moved to another part of the property where they were present to ensure no contact with the victim.

Worsham also noted that the probation officers report on the alleged violation indicated that his clients do not live with the victim.

Webster County Judge Michael Hendrickson declined to throw out the motion to revoke the brothers' probation and scheduled a new hearing for October 22, when he is expected to decide whether or not to re-impose the suspended sentences and send the defendants to state prison.

Berkstresser, the county prosecutor, revealed last month that the 13-year-old victim delivered a baby in late August. He said one of the Schwartz brothers is the father of the child.

The incestuous relations in the Amish family came to light in June when the pregnant teen told doctors that she had been having sexual relations with her four brothers.

Aaron and Petie Schwartz were initially charged with six felony counts of statutory rape and one felony count of incest after admitting to having sex with their sister a half-dozen times.

In early September, the men were offered a plea deal for two charges of third-degree child molestation.

The brothers had received a 10-year sentence in the Missouri Department of Corrections on the first count and five years for the second count.

Under the conditions of the agreement, the Schwartzes' sentences were suspended. Instead, they were put on probation for five years and spared jail time.

In order to stay out of prison, they are required to complete the Missouri Sex Offender Treatment Program by September 8, 2021.

The brothers must also perform 100 hours of community service and write an apology letter to Seymour's Amish community within 30 days.

Protesters are seen confronting a vehicle carrying the Schwartz brothers following a probation hearing on Wednesday at Webster County Courthouse in Marshfield, Missouri

They additionally must pay $250 to the Law Enforcement Restitution Fund, which provides funding to improve the operation of the sheriff's department and the prosecutor's office.

Berkstresser said in September that he was aware that the brothers' punishment would seem lax given their initial charge of six felony counts of statutory rape and one felony count of incest.

'In the end, this wasn't a case of a parent and child, where a parent in a position of authority sexually abused or exploited their child,' he said. 'This was a situation where four siblings engaged in acts with their sister. I offered a 15-year prison sentence based on this ... it was a different relationship.

'And I made the decision not to send them to the DOC, to suspend the sentences.

He added; 'These two young men would've been eaten alive in the state prison system.'

Both brothers will be registered sex offenders for life.

The outcome of the case sparked outrage in the community and calls for Berkstresser to resign.
Winning the gold medal at the International Olympiad in Informatics (IOI) for the second time, Bui Hong Duc says he does not intend to study abroad, but will enroll at a university in Vietnam.

On September 23, sitting in front of the computer screen watching the IOI online prize awarding ceremony, Duc heard his name called as one of 29 gold medal winners.

Bui Hong Duc

Before becoming famous as a golden boy in information technology, Duc was well known for his great achievements in mathematics.

When he was a secondary school student at the Hanoi  Amsterdam High School for the Gifted, Duc was often chosen as member of the team of selected students to attend the national and international competitions.

His greatest achievements include the gold medal at the international mathematics competition for young people in China in 2015, where he had the highest score and the platinum medal at the 2014 Asia-Pacific Mathematical Olympiad.

For Pham Thi Hoa, the mother of Duc, the bronze medal Duc won at the competition on seeking Vietnamese young talents in mathematics in 2017 was the most memorable.

Both Duc and his mother were disappointed about the bronze medal, because Duc had attended many competitions before and always won high prizes.

However, Hoa said the bronze medal was valuable, because it helped Duc learn a lesson after many times of winning first prizes at competitions, saying that this was a valuable failure.

After winning the bronze medal, the lowest achievement for Duc so far, he became more cautious in competitions.

Ducs teachers hoped that Duc would continue to go on the path reserved for mathematicians, but when Duc entered the eighth grade and began studying informatics, he changed his mind.

Noticing his sharp thinking and original ideas, Ho Dac Phuong, a lecturer at the High School for the Gifted in Natural Sciences, persuaded him to attend the entrance exam for the Information Technology major class of the school.

After 10 months of studying at the school, Duc became a member of the selected team to attend the national competition for excellent students, where the other members were in higher grades. Duc, who was then a 10th grader, won first prize. And he won gold medals at international competitions in the next two years.

Speaking about the achievements gained by his son, Bui Hong Cuong said Duc has a minimalistic lifestyle with little time spent on social media. Duc is always eager to learn.

He doesnt care much about how to have fun or dress. He just wants to study and have books to be happy, Cuong said.

Thanh Hung

Vietnam comes 17th at International Mathematical Olympiad 2020 All six members of the Vietnamese team participating in the virtual 61st International Mathematical Olympiad 2020 brought home medals and certificate of merit, including two golds, finishing 17th out of 105 participating countries and territories.
(TNS)  The Detroit City Council approved a contract that will upgrade controversial facial recognition software used by police to fight crime in the nation's most violent city despite calls to ban the technology opponents argue is "racist."The measure  to cover costs associated with upgrades and maintenance  was approved Tuesday by a 6-3 vote following a protest, lengthy discussion among council members and an hour of public comment from residents and activists.The nearly $200,000 contract with South Carolina-based DataWorks Plus will fund software maintenance and support for the city's facial recognition equipment. The contract would run Oct. 1, 2020, through Sept. 30, 2022.Councilman Gabe Leland, who supported the contract, acknowledged it's a "delicate balancing act" between "empowering DPD with more tools, empowering victims and also protecting the general public." The council initially delayed action on the matter in June, citing a need for Detroit police to engage the community about its use of the crime-fighting technology. Council President Brenda Jones, Pro Tem Mary Sheffield and member Raquel Castaneda-Lopez voted no on Tuesday.Castaneda-Lopez said she couldn't support the software that she contends has implicit bias." In using it, she said, "we compromise people being discriminated against ... for the sake of efficiency."It has proven in multiple studies to have a racial bias and that is one of the fundamental flaws, she said. I dont support the administration saying 'if this contract doesnt go through  were going to do it anyways.' Thats a really flawed approach to have and dangerous.Added Jones: I cannot support with my head and feel good with my heart the equipment that we have and that we are using today."Councilman James Tate said besides those against the contract, other residents in Detroit are victims of crime and do not feel safe."They also state they would want any and all tools available to ensure that justice is brought about," he said.But Tate, who ultimately voted in favor of the contract, also pointed to statistics provided by Police Chief James Craig that the technology on its own misidentifies individuals 96 percent of the time."How has the software helped with the humans who are actually filling in the missing pieces out of that 96 percent?" Tate said.The Detroit police administration said the software is a tool to speed up investigations and its face-matching capability is paired with a digital book of mug shots. Once a potential hit is identified, it's then up to detectives to investigate further."The efficiency that we gain from using facial recognition is tremendous," Detroit Deputy Chief Marlon Wilson told the council. "A lot of these cases would just be a whodunit."Detroit Councilman Roy McCalister Jr. said "nothing is 100 percent" and, in seeking answers from police department officials during the session, noted it's a priority to protect the seniors and young children who fall victim to crime."People who are just living their daily lives and who are attacked, we want to make sure their constitutional rights and their privileges are just as much protected as well," he said.Detroit Police Capt. Aric Tosqui said Tuesday the technology has been used 106 times this calendar year and made 64 matches. It assisted in 12 arrests.A December review of the industrys leading facial recognition algorithms by the National Institute of Standards and Technology found they were more than 99 percent accurate when matching high-quality headshots to a database of other frontal poses.But trying to identify a face from a video feed, especially using ceiling-mounted cameras commonly found in stores, can cause accuracy rates to plunge. Studies also have shown that face recognition systems dont perform equally across race, gender and age  working best on white men, with potentially harmful consequences for others.In one high-profile case, Robert Williams, who is Black, said he was mistakenly tagged by facial recognition as a suspected shoplifter in Detroit in 2018.The American Civil Liberties Union filed a complaint with the Detroit Board of Police Commissioners seeking a public apology from police, permanent dismissal Williams' case and removal of Williams' information from criminal databases.City police revised the policy governing use of the software last year, removing a contentious provision that allowed it to be used to scan faces in real-time if there's a terror threat. The revisions also laid out punishment for officers who abuse the system.The rules were adopted last fall after it had been in use by the department for a year-and-a-half.U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Detroit, took to Twitter on Tuesday to reiterate her disapproval of facial recognition and expressed her disappointment with the council's vote."Facial recognition technology is racist," she tweeted. "I cannot believe that some of the leaders of a majority Black city, Detroit, want to continue to use a racist facial recognition technology."In tandem with Tuesday's meeting, members of the Detroit Will Breathe coalition led a 10-car caravan protest over facial recognition through the city's East English Village neighborhood.Organizers drove past Councilman Andre Spiveys home in the neighborhood chanting Black Lives Matter and F--- facial recognition, and claiming Spivey has been critical of opponents of the software.Spivey, during Tuesday's session, noted the caravan circled his home and he's supportive of their right to protest. But news reports of statements he allegedly made about opponents of the technology are untrue, he said."Whoever put that language out there, it was an error," Spivey said.Organizer Jae Bass said the group, which assembled to march against police brutality in the wake of the Memorial Day killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, won't only hit the streets for the Black Lives Matter movement. It also will take protests mobile where they matter most, he said.Facial recognition is racial profiling, said Bass, 25.Escorted by Detroit police, the caravan circled the blocks of Yorkshire and Kensington honking for a half hour. They were met with support by residents who opened doors and exited their homes with fists raised.Jordan Weber, another organizer, held the megaphone out of the sunroof of her Jeep to chant against the software.Its racist, inaccurate and causes black and brown bodies harm and trauma they dont need, said Weber, 26. There are other ways of keeping our communities safe."Detroit's City Council first approved a two-year, $1 million contract for facial recognition software in 2017. The city's use of the technology and Project Green Light surveillance cameras have been contentious.Supporters of Detroit Will Breathe also drove past the homes of council members James Tate and Janee Ayers this summer ahead of the council's anticipated June vote that ultimately stalled.Tosqui told council members during a subcommittee meeting last week that the department convened multiple community engagement sessions on facial recognition prior to the COVID-19 outbreak and has continued hosting them via Zoom in recent months.The department, he added, owns the software in perpetuity and is continuing to use it to help solve crimes. But police needed the council's approval on the contract to ensure it's properly updated and maintained.The police department said there's a "strict policy" for the technology to only be used in connection with the most egregious violent crimes and home invasions.But Gabriela Alcazar, a resident of southwest Detroit, said it's a failure and must end.Detroit Police Department changing its policy to only use facial recognition for violent crimes does not solve the inherent flaws in the technology, said Alcazar, adding: It does nothing to reduce crime.
After nearly two decades, Jenny Brockie has decided to step down from her role hosting Insight for SBS.

Jenny Brockie said: After a break this year and a lot of thought, Ive decided its time for a change. I care deeply about SBS and I couldnt be more grateful to James Taylor and Mandi Wicks for supporting my decision to step away from my role on Insight. Were talking about new ideas and how I might contribute to the network in the future.

Hosting Insight for nearly two decades has been a highlight of my professional life. Im proud of the work Ive done and am hugely grateful to the talented Insight team and the many other fine people at SBS whove made that work possible. I have enormous regard for Insights viewers and want to thank them for all the warmth and kindness they have shown me. Above all, I want to thank the thousands of guests whove trusted me with their stories over so many years. Its been an honour and a privilege to help you share your experiences.

Im looking forward to what comes next for me. I have no doubt Insight will continue to flourish and I will be welcoming the new host in 2021.

Brockie has hosted Insight since 2001 tackling an amazing array of social, economic, political and human interest stories

In March she took time out from the show as the pandemic risk increased and extended the leave in June. Guest presenters have hosted the show across recent months.

2/2  I'm stepping away from the Insight studio for a while given my risk profile for the virus. Sending my very best wishes to all of you. Stay safe and stay home. You can help save lives x  Jenny Brockie (@JenBrockie) March 30, 2020

Just a heads up to Insighters that Im taking extended leave for a few months. In the meantime some of my very talented SBS colleagues will be hosting Insight, so please make them welcome. Stay safe lovely people x #insightsbs  Jenny Brockie (@JenBrockie) June 3, 2020

SBS Managing Director, James Taylor, said: Jenny is one of Australias most respected journalists and has played an integral role as part of our highly-regarded news and current affairs team. I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge Jennys substantial contribution to SBS over almost two decades with Insight, and for her award-winning body of work. Jenny has been instrumental in growing and refining Insight from its early days to become the world class forum program it is today, and we look forward to building on that success. Jenny will always be part of the SBS family and were hopeful she will return to our screens in the future.

Newly appointed SBS Director of News and Current Affairs, Mandi Wicks, said: Jenny is renowned for her curiosity and fairness, bringing a forensic attention to detail and a warmth that puts interviewees at ease. She has unearthed some extraordinary first-person stories over the years, delivering the high-quality journalism our audiences know and trust us for. Jenny will be taking a break, and while we are sad to lose her from Insight, were discussing opportunities and fresh ideas in the hope we can work together at SBS in the future. I look forward to working with the Insight team during its next phase in 2021 as it continues to deliver balanced, considered and intriguing debates, delving into a wide variety of topics with a fresh perspective.

Outgoing SBS Director of News and Current Affairs, Jim Carroll, said: It has been an absolute privilege working with Jenny over the past eight years. She is a class act and her intellect, gravitas and humour have made Insight must watch television for Australians wanting to be informed and entertained on the most vital issues. Under her watch, Insight became SBSs most successful and engaging current affairs format, and together with the team it has garnered an incredibly loyal following of viewers and a growing digital presence. Jennys capacity to earn the trust of Insight guests, allowing them to tell the most personal and sometimes distressing stories in a safe environment, was without peer.

To me great television is often about memorable moments and Insight with Jenny has provided so many of those. She leaves an enormous and proud legacy.

SBS will commence its search for a new host for 2021 in the coming weeks.
Holders Manchester City will continue their defence of the Carabao Cup against Arsenal.

The draw for the quarter-finals pitched Mikel Arteta's side against that of his mentor Pep Guardiola after the Gunners had beaten Liverpool on penalties at Anfield.

Arteta got the better of Guardiola in the FA Cup semi-finals last season en route to winning that trophy and the Spaniard will be hoping history can repeat itself against his fellow countryman.

Arsenal will have to beat Manchester City if they want to reach the Carabao Cup semi-finals

The draw for the last eight pitched Mikel Arteta's side against that of his mentor Pep Guardiola

The other all-Premier League tie sees in-form Everton host Manchester United.

Brentford are in the quarter-finals of the competition for the first time in their history and they will host Newcastle, who are looking to win a major trophy for the first time since 1969.

Stoke knocked out last year's finalists Aston Villa to reach the last eight and will be looking to claim another Premier League scalp - having also beaten Wolves in the competition this season - when they host Tottenham.

The last trophy Spurs won was the League Cup in 2008 and boss Jose Mourinho will be keen to end that drought.
Turkish-Armenian MP Garo Paylan says the whole world is calling for ceasefire in Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh), except for one country.

In an interview with the Turkish Bianet, Garo Paylan stated that he has sent an inquiry to the presidential staff of Turkey in regard to the news according to which Turkey has sent militants to Azerbaijan.

Several international media outlets have prepared reports stating that Turkey has sent Syrian militants to the conflict zone, and the governments of Turkey and Azerbaijan definitely need to give clarifications regarding this news, Paylan said and stressed that while the whole world is calling on the sides to cease fire, Turkey is the only country supporting war.
Part of the growth in demand quite likely reflects the economic fallout from the pandemic, Mr. Riggen said: As people lose their jobs, more families than usual may struggle to pay for emergency accommodation on their own, forcing them to turn to the Red Cross for help.

But the bulk of the growth is from the scale of the disasters themselves, he said, particularly with many of them striking the same areas numerous times.

The largest number of overnight stays this year, 358,545, have been in Louisiana. While that state has been struck by several hurricanes and tropical storms this year, the greatest damage was from Hurricane Laura, which hit the southwest part of the state on Aug. 27 as a Category 4 storm with wind speeds of 150 miles per hour  the first time since 1856 that the state has experienced a storm of that strength.

That led to the largest evacuation effort for a hurricane since Hurricane Gustav in 2008, according to Mike Steele, spokesman for the Governors Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness.

Most of Cameron Parish, where Laura made landfall, is still under a mandatory evacuation order, Mr. Steele said. More than a month after the hurricane, almost 9,000 victims of Laura remain in hotels in Louisiana, and more than 4,000 are in hotels in Texas. And those figures reflect only those people who needed help leaving or finding shelter.

Being away from their homes for extended periods means children remain out of school and people away from their jobs, Mr. Steele pointed out. At the same time, the region is struggling to get back to normal: More than two-thirds of households in Cameron Parish were still without power as of Wednesday, according to data from the Louisiana Public Service Commission.
Latest polls for Washington's 3rd Congressional District race indicate a tight race between Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler (49%) and Carolyn Long (47%), according to an internal poll by GQR. This political match began in 2018 when both candidates ran head-to-head for the position, ending in a 7 point Herrera Beutler victory.

According to press releases from Herrera Butler's campaign, earlier this month she was active in Washington, D.C. She filed a discharge petition in the House of Representatives which would force a vote to increase the Payment Protection Program (PPP) for small businesses, and is also reported to have introduced and passed the bipartisan Pregnant Workers Fairness Act which requires "employers to implement accommodations for pregnant workers."

Last week, Long's campaign released two plans to address anti-corruption as well as the pandemic. The first outlines a list of potential bans and limitations related to shady political activity with corporations and foreign entities as well as suggests increased oversight on the Federal Elections Commission. The second plan's focus is to "build the conditions for a robust recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic" by stimulating the economy, schools, and providing affordable healthcare.

The Eagle recently interviewed Herrera Beutler and Long covering their background, experience, and goals for Wahkiakum voters leading up to the November 3rd general election. Both candidates share a longstanding and personal connection to southwest Washington but have different ideas about what the region needs from it's U.S. Representative.

Each candidate was asked the same interview questions and their responses are what follow:

Why run for the position?

Herrera Beutler: I've always wanted to be a part of southwest Washington and raise a family here. I want to build on the progress we've made over the last nine years. Unemployment was high when I started, now there are more jobs and higher wages. Up until six months ago we were really doing that.

Long: I'm uniquely qualified to serve the people of southwest Washington. I've been a hard worker all my life growing up in rural communities even as a journeyman of UFCW Local 555. I'm running for this position because I have seen a void of leadership in our community from the current representative. The most important thing is to listen to others which is why I'm running a true grassroots campaign.

What do you hope to accomplish?

Herrera Beutler: In the short term I want to expand jobs and job saving programs. It's also important to look for region specific solutions like legislation that would manage sea lion populations; and I'd work to harvest timber and combat movements that take timber sales off the table.

Long: One of the things that has been on everyone's mind is the economic crisis. So I've released a plan that addresses access to healthcare and a pathway to economic success. I'd like to make sure people have access to affordable healthcare and prioritize workers through paid family sick leave, childcare, raising minimum wage and job retraining programs.

Why should communities like Wahkiakum County vote for you?

Eagle file photo Carolyn Long, D

Herrera Beutler: It takes time to understand the needs of every area. Pancake point on Puget Island is not going to be the same as Camas. I came to Puget Island and Cape Horn to walk along and assess the shoreline and have been working to combat erosion with the Army Corps. There are a lot of needs in the district and I've learned that I can affect policy in this area, for example, to prevent extreme environmentalism, or to protect the salmon population, or support the local economy.

Long: What I want people to know is that I'm committed to governing the same way that I campaign which is to be present, accountable, and committed to everybody throughout the district. I'm going to put them first, not big corporate donors or DC insiders, that I'm working for "you." I think it's time for a fresh start. It's been 10 years with the current incumbent and I'd ask voters to really reflect on whether or not they've been present in the district and whether they've delivered on the important issues facing the people.
Three Britons have been arrested after a Europe-wide probe into people trafficking busted a gang of 12 people suspected of transporting migrants across the Channel.

Two men and a woman aged between 33 and 40 were held in London on suspicion of assisting unlawful immigration.

Two others were held in Calais and seven in Holland. The gang ferried migrants in high-speed rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) at 3,000 a person.

The arrests follow a surge in crossings to the UK this year, hitting a record of almost 7,000.

Three Britons have been arrested after a Europe-wide probe into people trafficking busted a gang of 12 people suspected of transporting migrants across the Channel. Pictured: Some of the cash seized in raids on the suspects homes

The bust was conducted by law officers working together with Europe's policing and judicial agencies Europol and Eurojus who made the arrests over the last two days, British interior minster Priti Patel and the Hague-based Eurojust said in statements on Wednesday.

'Yesterday, 12 people were arrested in France, the Netherlands and the UK as part of a joint operation targeting a gang engaged in smuggling people across the Channel in small boats,' Patel said.

Police also seized 12 cars, 10 rubber boats and engines, 152 life jackets, a caravan, a boat trailer, jewellery, about 40,000 (48,000) in cash, documents and mobile devices, Eurojust added.

The bust was conducted by law officers working together with Europe's policing and judicial agencies Europol and Eurojus who made the arrests over the last two days, British interior minster Priti Patel and the Hague-based Eurojust said in statements on Wednesday (stock photo)

Those arrested are suspected of being part of a mainly Iranian smuggling gang based in France, the Netherlands and Britain, organising their activities through their ties in the various countries and social media.

'The network is believed to have made huge profits from smuggling migrants in small boats from the north coasts of France to Britain,' charging an average of 3,000 euros per crossing, Eurojust said.

'Transporting migrants in overloaded boats, often in very difficult weather conditions on one of the busiest commercial shipping lanes in the world, endangered the lives of both the migrants and also the law enforcement officers conducting sea rescue operations,' it said.

Eurojust said illegal migrant-smuggling activity has 'increased exponentially' in recent months with over 4,600 irregular migrants detected since 2018 on British shores.

Police also seized 12 cars, 10 rubber boats and engines, 152 life jackets, a caravan, a boat trailer, jewellery, about 40,000 (48,000) in cash, documents and mobile devices, Eurojust added

It comes amid reports that people traffickers have slashed prices of Channel crossings to Britain from around 4,500 to 450, the National Crime Agency said yesterday.

Desperate migrants are being supplied with kayaks, toy dinghies and some have even tried using paddling pools to make the treacherous crossing.

The NCA said prices had fallen as the level of overcrowding on traffickers' vessels had 'risen significantly' in recent months.

Tighter travel rules during the pandemic have restricted other routes into the country such as hiding in the back of lorries, forcing more migrants onto small and dangerous boats, the NCA's deputy director Matthew Long said in a briefing.

It comes amid reports that people traffickers have slashed prices of Channel crossings to Britain from around 4,500 to 450, the National Crime Agency said yesterday

'With an overloaded vessel and the wave height... quite often these vessels are filling with water and baling out,' added NCA colleague Steven Dann.

'Within that is vomit and sometimes fuel, we've had people whose skin has been burnt by the fuel,' he added.

'When you see these migrants coming, it's upsetting. You see women and children coming off these boats shivering, hypothermic.'

Organised crime gangs were also using the crossings to smuggle firearms, they added.

However, some of the worst incidents did not involve organised crime networks, but rather those desperately trying to make their own way across the treacherous waters.

'We've had a paddling pool you buy at (British high street store) Argos,' Dann said of one of the attempted crossings.

The joint operation comes as French police on Tuesday dismantled a camp of about 800 migrants in the port city of Calais.

'The French at the moment are intercepting over 50 percent of events taking place, they're making every effort to prevent these crossings,' said Dann.

Calais continues to attract migrants from the Middle East and Africa who set up makeshift camps along France's northern coast from where they hope to make the passage to Britain.

Since January 1, French authorities have intercepted at least 1,317 migrants as they tried to reach the UK, some by swimming across the busy waterway.

In August, a Sudanese teenager drowned while trying to reach Britain with a friend in an inflatable boat.
There is so much that can be achieved for society as a whole when governments take a comprehensive approach to making their communities more climate-friendly.

The guide, Regions Take Action: The Benefits of Major Climate Policies, uses case studies from India, Brazil, Europe and the United States to show how climate-friendly policies can create better outcomes across society. It looks particularly at economic development, air quality, public health, equity and resilience to provide a model for how regional governments around the world can implement similar actions in their own areas.

The stories in the guide are exciting because they illustrate how governments are addressing very immediate problems while also leading the way on climate change solutions, said Jacob Corvidae, RMI principal and co-author of the guide. There is so much that can be achieved for society as a whole when governments take a comprehensive approach to making their communities more climate-friendly.

Benefits Beyond Emissions Reduction

Developing and using low-carbon technologies and strategies is critical to tackling greenhouse gas emissions. However, research now shows that benefits derived from low-carbon solutions extend far beyond environmental gains.

For example, one study estimates that decreased air pollution resulting from climate action to meet a 1.5C warming scenario could lead to around 153 million fewer premature deaths worldwide. In the United States alone, the economic value of the avoided deaths is estimated at $37 trillion.

The Regions Take Action guide illustrates five key climate actions regional governments can take across different sectors that will also benefit other areas of society:



Clean electricity: Commit to creating clean electricity. Renewables are cost-effective investments, and clean electricity is fundamental to a carbon-free society.

Carbon-free buildings: Construct and upgrade buildings to be all-electric and efficient, which will also create healthier, more comfortable places to live and work.

Healthy transportation: Create better mobility options and electrify vehicles, which can reduce air pollution while giving people more choices for transportation and for taking climate action.

Innovative industry: Use clean energy supplies to move industry to electric power while also creating solutions to drive a clean energy economy. This includes new processes, low-carbon materials, digital technologies and more.

Sustainable land use: Preserve and enhance the natural resources that create beautiful places, economic opportunities and essential carbon sinks that pull pollution from the air.

Climate champions alone cant be responsible for acting on climate change. We need to see a combined effort across all areas of government, including transport, housing, education and agriculture, said Libby Ferguson, director of policy and knowledge at the Under2 Coalition Secretariat. Not only does this increase the impact of individual efforts, but it shows the value of sustainable, climate-friendly choices in all areas of our everyday lives.

Regions Taking Action

The case studies presented in the guide give clear examples of where regional climate actions have made a tangible difference in various parts of the world. The examples show how:



Hawaii, United States, has reduced price volatility on the path to 100% clean electricity. The island state committed to achieving 100% renewable electricity production by 2045. By producing its own power locally, it can create a more consistent, reliable energy source, rather than relying on imported fuels.

New York, United States, is ensuring equitable benefits to vulnerable communities while improving its building stock. The 2019 Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act created the strongest economy-wide greenhouse gas emissions limits in the United States. Buildings are a big focus, and the act requires that 35% of economic benefits go to disadvantaged communities.

The National Capital Territory of Delhi, India, is improving air quality with electric vehicles. The policy, launched in August 2020, calls for 25% of all new vehicles to be battery operated by 2024 to address the fact that 30% of particulate matter in Delhi is emitted from tailpipes.

Hauts-de-France, France, is dramatically increasing local jobs as it invests in reinventing its industrial base. Investing in innovation, the region now has over 700 projects building a new industrial base around digital solutions, renewable energy and low-carbon materials. It is projecting a 13% growth in industrial sector jobs.

Mato Grosso, Brazil, is creating diverse partnerships to tap a growing global market while preserving land and supporting local businesses and communities. This has created a way for farmers to create economic growth without resorting to deforestation. This builds the economy, while also preserving essential carbon-sinks and preserving local ecosystems and culture. It has also inspired a growth in these markets globally.

Other governments can draw on these examples to advance their own commitments and coordinate across ministries and departments to solve multiple problems at once.

The Regions Take Action guide is a complement to two books previously released to help governments act on climate: The Carbon-Free Regions Handbook and The Carbon-Free City Handbook.

Notes to Editors

Regions Take Action: The Benefits of Major Climate Policies can be downloaded at under2coalition.org/news/regions-take-action or rmi.org/regions-take-action.

Contact

For media inquiries with Rocky Mountain Institute, or to request an interview with Jacob Corvidae, principal at the Rocky Mountain Institute, or Jules Kortenhorst, CEO of the Rocky Mountain Institute, please contact Alexandra Chin: +1 973-262-0002 or achin@rmi.org.

For media inquiries with the Climate Group, or to request an interview with Libby Ferguson, Director of Policy and Knowledge at the Under2 Coalition Secretariat, or Tim Ash Vie, Director of the Under2 Coalition Secretariat, please contact Sophie Benger: sbenger@theclimategroup.org.

About Rocky Mountain Institute

Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI)an independent nonprofit founded in 1982transforms global energy use to create a clean, prosperous, and secure low-carbon future. It engages businesses, communities, institutions, and entrepreneurs to accelerate the adoption of market-based solutions that cost-effectively shift from fossil fuels to efficiency and renewables. RMI has offices in Basalt and Boulder, Colorado; New York City; the San Francisco Bay Area; Washington, D.C.; and Beijing. More information on RMI can be found at http://www.rmi.org or follow us on Twitter @RockyMtnInst.

About the Under2 Coalition

The Under2 Coalition is a global community of state and regional governments committed to ambitious climate action in line with the Paris Agreement. Governments in the coalition commit to keeping global temperature rises to well below 2C with efforts to reach 1.5C. Ten states and regions in the coalition have committed to reaching net-zero emissions by 2050 or earlier. The Climate Group is the Secretariat to the Under2 Coalition and works with governments across three key workstreams. The Climate Group also works directly with state and regional governments on capacity-building projects to support the implementation of climate policy. Visit http://www.under2coalition.org or follow #Under2Coalition on Twitter.

About the Climate Group

The Climate Group drives climate action. Fast. Our goal is a world of net zero carbon emissions by 2050, with greater prosperity for all. We focus on systems with the highest emissions and where our networks have the greatest opportunity to drive change. We do this by building large and influential networks and holding organizations accountable, turning their commitments into action. We share what we achieve together to show more organizations what they could do. We are an international nonprofit organization, founded in 2004, with offices in London, New Delhi and New York. We are proud to be part of the We Mean Business coalition. Follow us on Twitter @ClimateGroup.
CLEVELAND, Ohio  Shaker Heights police placed an officer on paid administrative leave after he flipped off a group of protesters marching before Clevelands presidential debate.

Shaker Heights Police Commander John Cole said the officer was placed on leave Wednesday afternoon. Cole refused to provide the officers name, and declined to say why.

Cole said an internal investigation is underway and that he will make public the investigations findings once the investigation is finished. Shaker Heights Mayor David Weiss did not respond to requests for comment, nor did a city spokeswoman.

Shaker Heights police said in a statement that the department unequivocally supports the right of Black Lives Matter and all demonstrators to peacefully protest and condemned any action by a police officer that disrespects citizens.

We are committed to confronting and rooting out unprofessional and inappropriate behavior within our department, and pledge to move as swiftly as possible in this case, the statement said. We recognize that behavior such as this damages relationships that we have worked hard to build.

Cole initially told cleveland.com Wednesday that investigators were still trying to identify the officer. Cleveland Chief of Police Calvin D. Williams, at a news conference Wednesday afternoon, said that a supervisor identified the officer immediately after the incident and forced the officer to leave for the rest of the day.

Thats the way we expect our partners to handle things, Williams said.

The incident happened as some 500 protesters marched in the University Circle neighborhood. Black Lives Matter Cleveland and Black Spring CLE organized the event and march. The protests were entirely peaceful.

As a caravan of armed officers drove near the march on East Boulevard near Hazel Drive, an officer in riot gear driving a Shaker Heights police van extended his arm out of the window gave the middle finger to protesters as he drove past.

A cleveland.com reporter took a video of the incident. The officer drove the third of four police vehicles that went by the march.

A driver in a police caravan gave the finger to Black Lives Matter protesters in Cleveland's University Circle neighborhood ahead of the Sept. 29 presidential debate. (Robin Goist, cleveland.com)

Black Lives Matter Cleveland organizer Kareem Henton criticized the officers actions and said that such behavior is evidence that the officer cared little about protecting citizens.

That shows that he does not see those people as citizens that he is supposed to be out there to protect, Henton said. He drew his line in the sand.

Henton also said it came as little surprise that the officer works for Shaker Heights. He said its well-known that the department puts officers in patrol cars at the border of Cleveland and Warrensville Heights.

Its the police departments message: dont come here with that, Henton said. They try to portray it as some great city. A lot of residents there are great, but if the city administrators arent treating people equitably, they are complicit.

Henton said hed like to see the officer ordered to undergo additional training, particularly for de-escalation and cultural competency to better learn how to respect citizens.

Learning what the officer did, its not surprising, Henton said. Right now were in the age where they no longer have to hide the disdain they have for the community.

Read more cleveland.com:

Cop who flipped off peaceful protesters during Cleveland presidential debate identified as Shaker Heights officer

Watch police caravan driver outside presidential debate give Cleveland Black Lives Matter protesters the finger

Protests outside first presidential debate in Cleveland remain peaceful despite few tense moments
Mercado Libre is the dominant e-commerce company in Latin America and one of the region's most valuable firms

Latin America's e-commerce industry is booming as millions of shoppers across the region venture online during the pandemic, many for the first time, forcing traditional businesses to adapt to survive.

The sector has been one of the big winners of the coronavirus outbreak as fears of infection and lockdown measures keep people at home.

"Covid-19 has been an accelerator of trends, and in electronic commerce it has been very powerful," said Oscar Silva, an expert in global strategies with the consultancy firm KPMG in Mexico.

"More than 10 million Latin Americans who had never bought online now do so regularly," he told AFP.

The dominant regional force is not Amazon or eBay but Mercado Libre, which has a similar business model and is present in 18 countries.

Despite the economic turmoil unleashed by the pandemic, the Argentinian company doubled its sales in the second quarter of this year thanks to a 45 percent rise in the number of customers to 51.1 million.

Its market capitalization reached $55 billion, challenging Brazilian mining giant Vale for the title of Latin America's most valuable company.

The tectonic shift in consumer habits is likely to endure, said Silva.

"People were afraid of fraud or that the product wouldn't be what they expected. It's very likely that a large percentage of these customers will stay after realizing how easy and efficient online commerce is," he said.

- Survival of the fittest -

David Geisen, head of Mercado Libre's Mexican arm, said that "loyal users now buy in 12 days what they bought before in 17, frequent users in 24 days what they bought in 79, and sporadic users in 29 days what they bought in almost a year."

At the start of the pandemic, top sellers included face masks, antibacterial gel, thermometers and oximeters, but demand gradually spread to other goods and services.

The boom even reached Cuba's tightly controlled economy, with sales soaring on the government's tuenvio.com platform, which struggled to meet the expectations of some customers.

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"I've made around 40 purchases and I've had about 40 problems," Jorge Noris, a 34-year-old IT worker, told AFP in Havana.

There have also been hiccups in Mexico.

One man who tried to buy a cellphone online complained he received a soft drink instead, although the store -- part of Mexican magnate Carlos Slim's empire -- eventually sent him the right order.

Many businesses have gone bankrupt because they had a poor online offering or none at all, Silva said.

"The big platforms are the winners, but we also see neighborhood businesses that keep their customers or win new ones using something as simple as WhatsApp," he said.

- Boost to jobs -

According to the firm AppsFlyer, downloads of e-commerce mobile applications grew 93 percent in the second quarter of the year in Latin America, with Brazil and Mexico leading the way.

Brazil, the region's biggest economy, saw online commerce grow nearly 57 percent between January and August, with 135,000 new stores, according to the Brazilian Association of Electronic Commerce.

Governments in the region are eyeing the online boom as a source of tax income to fund increased public spending during the pandemic.

New jobs are also being created, replacing some of those lost during the economic downturn.

While unemployment stalks millions around the region, Sergio Garcia is optimistic about his future after a year as a parcel courier for a global e-commerce giant.

"Demand has grown a lot during the pandemic," said the 60-year-old, who earns the equivalent of about $0.30 for each package he delivers on foot.

"It doesn't sound like much, but it's more than other jobs," he said.

sem/dr/bfm
Yaya Dia, a graduate of Community College of Philadelphia, is a research technician at the Wistar Institute, where he helps study a possible COVID vaccine. Read more

When Yaya Dia comes home from a long day at work, hungry for a steaming plate of his mothers fish with rice, his little brothers dont let him sit down without a big hug.

Are you a doctor yet? the youngest, 10-year-old Abou, will often ask.

Im getting there, replies Dia, 29.

He is on a longer journey than most. He spoke no English when he emigrated at age 9 from the West African nation of Burkina Faso, and at first was indifferent about school amid the unfamiliar tumult of Philadelphia. He went to an automotive vocational school, considered a career in the military, then was most of the way through a two-year business degree at Community College of Philadelphia before, on a whim, he took a course in biology. A passion for medicine was born.

He took more science classes, in between working as a delivery driver (colleagues affectionately called him Doctor), but he knew the path would take years. So for now, he is contributing to medicine in a more immediate way: joining the fight against COVID-19.

More than 40 coronavirus vaccines are in various stages of testing on humans, and dozens more are being studied in lab animals. Thousands of researchers worldwide are tackling the puzzle: the industry scientists, the tenured professors, the legions of postdoctoral fellows and graduate students. At the bottom of the ladder are the lab technicians, charged with setting up equipment, preparing nutrient broths to feed cultures of experimental cells, and other behind-the-scenes tasks with scant recognition.

Among them is Dia. Since February, he has been an apprentice at Philadelphias Wistar Institute, the 128-year-old biomedical research center known for its expertise in cancer and the immune system, which is helping to study a vaccine developed at Inovio Pharmaceuticals in Plymouth Meeting.

Though he plays just a small role in an enterprise involving dozens of people, his work is praised by supervisors, who rely on him to test samples from lab animals to see how well their immune systems respond. And along with others who have gone through training at Wistar, he represents progress toward a broader goal: increased involvement in the sciences by people of color.

When one of the labs first vaccine studies was published in May, alongside the coauthors with advanced degrees from big-name schools, there was Dia: holder of an associates degree from Community College of Philadelphia.

The pipeline

Bill Wunner needed workers who would stick around.

Every year, a new crop of bright young college graduates would cycle through Wistar, picking up some lab experience before moving on to an advanced degree.

Theyd be gone within a year, he said.

Wunner, a longtime scientist at the institute, had worked in Scotland, where it was common for labs to hire research assistants who had yet to earn a college degree. With the blessing of Wistar management, he offered to create a similar program in Philadelphia. A consultant suggested an untapped source of talent: community college.

By offering rigorous on-the-job training and supplemental classes to promising candidates, Wunner argued, Wistar could ensure a steady stream of homegrown research assistants. And it would yield another benefit in the bargain: boosting the number of minorities in the sciences.

The population of students at CCP is a great cross-representation of the diversity of our society in Philadelphia, he said.

People of color are underrepresented in the sciences even more than in most professional fields, for a variety of reasons. The hierarchical nature of academic labs ensures that people in tenured professorships  very often older white men like Wunner  stay in place for a long time. And the years of training and education can put science and medical careers out of reach for those who need to make money sooner.

Especially given that others with more resources, seeking crucial lab training for their resumes, may get it as volunteers, said Dias supervisor at Wistar, postdoctoral fellow Emma Reuschel.

If you cant afford to volunteer your time, which is a privilege that a lot of people dont have, thats not necessarily an avenue open to you to get that initial experience, she said.

When Wunner started the program, a few colleagues were skeptical, he said. But 20 years later, there is no question it works. Of the 160 students who completed the program, half have gotten science-related jobs within a year, said Kristy Shuda McGuire, the Wistar associate dean who oversees it now. Two-thirds pursue additional education in science or medicine.

Participants start with a seven-day orientation, meeting on Fridays to accommodate the Monday-through-Thursday class schedule at CCP. Then comes a pair of 3-week paid rotations in two different labs, in some cases with Philadelphia-based biotech firms such as Integral Molecular and Invisible Sentinel. Last comes a three-month paid internship at Wistar or an area university.

It can be daunting at first, working in a big lab alongside others with fancy degrees, said Abeer Hudaihed, who completed the program in 2014. But everyone was welcoming, eager to answer questions or lend career advice.

Dr. Wunner, he always made me feel like I could do it, she said.

She went on to earn a masters degree at Thomas Jefferson University, where she found her laboratory skills were more advanced than those of many classmates. Now she has now come full circle, teaching biology at CCP.

The spark

Charles Heise described the inner workings of human biology as a factory.

DNA is the blueprint for making proteins, the building blocks of life, he told his biology students at CCP. The workers are cellular structures called ribosomes, assembling proteins on a factory floor called the endoplasmic reticulum.

It is a standard analogy in first-year biology, but to Dia, who had signed up for the class on impulse in 2014, it was a revelation.

The way he taught it, it really grabbed my attention, he said. I found a whole new passion.

Heise, who now teaches at Delaware Valley University, deflects the credit to his former student, one of several who always stayed after class, peppering him with questions.

He was the kind of person you could put your finger on and say, Hes going to amount to something, Heise recalled.

Dia earned his associate degree in 2017 and continued to take more science classes when he could, in between a series of jobs. He saved money by living at home with his seven younger siblings, fending off questions from his parents about his choice of a career path that required so many years of preparation.

He finally found time for the Wistar program in 2019 and liked it so much that he plowed through the training, the lab rotations, and the internship one after the other, rather than spread it over the usual two years. He followed that with a nine-month paid apprenticeship, partly funded by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, a new opportunity that Wistar created several years ago for graduates of the training program.

That started in February, just as COVID-19 was gaining steam.

The vaccine

The vaccine developed at Inovio is based on research by David Weiner, the head of the Wistar lab where Dia works.

As with any vaccine, the goal is to give the immune system a practice run, teaching it to make antibodies and other customized defenses in the event of infection. Traditional vaccines accomplish this by exposing the person to a weakened or inactivated form of a virus.

The Inovio vaccine, on the other hand, involves administering the genetic instructions for a fragment of the virus  enabling the person to make it onsite, in those cellular factories that Dia had learned about in biology class.

Among other advantages, DNA vaccines can be produced quickly. The first version of the COVID-19 vaccine at Inovio, where Weiner is a board member, was printed from chemical components within a matter of hours. But so far, no such vaccine has been commercialized in the United States, and unlike several other COVID-19 vaccines in development, Inovios entry has not yet proceeded to Phase 3 trials. The companys stock dropped Monday after it announced that stage of testing was on hold, pending a review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

With COVID-19s global death toll now over one million, the effort continues, with Dia among many dozens of contributors.

It is repetitive work, requiring intense focus. One recent day, he measured the antibody levels in samples of blood serum taken from vaccinated monkeys. The study in May, published in Nature Communications, involved testing the vaccine in mice and guinea pigs.

Sometimes he will ask lab colleagues for help. And sometimes they ask him.

Just because they have a Ph.D., that doesnt necessarily mean they are smarter than you, he said. That just means they went further than you in education."

He does not know yet if medical school lies ahead. Another option is to be a physicians assistant, or perhaps a researcher.

All he needed was the chance. Now the work is up to him.

If you just do whatever youre supposed to do, and help out whichever way you can, he said, then youll make a name for yourself.
By Kristina Cooke and Mica Rosenberg

(Reuters) - President Donald Trump's administration has announced plans to let only 15,000 refugees resettle in the United States in the 2021 fiscal year that began on Thursday, setting another record low in the history of the modern refugee program.

The U.S. State Department said late on Wednesday the ceiling reflects the Trump administration's prioritizing of the "safety and well-being of Americans, especially in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic." Trump, seeking re-election on Nov. 3, has taken a hard line toward legal and illegal immigration during his presidency, including slashing refugee admissions every year since taking office in 2017.

The Trump administration has said that refugees from war-torn regions should be resettled closer to their home countries and that the United States extends asylum to thousands of people through a separate process.

Critics have said that the United States under Trump has abandoned its longstanding role as a safe haven for persecuted people and that cutting refugee admissions undermines other foreign policy goals.

The refugee cap was cut to 18,000 in the 2020 fiscal year that ended on Wednesday, and only 11,814 refugees were resettled, according to the latest government figures, as increased vetting by the Trump administration and the coronavirus pandemic slowed arrivals.

U.S. presidents typically set yearly refugee levels around the Oct. 1 beginning of each fiscal year. Under U.S. law, the president must consult Congress before finalizing the annual number of refugees it plans to accept, but the determination is ultimately set by the White House.

The 2021 plan lays out specific allocations, including 5,000 slots for refugees who suffered or fear persecution on the basis of religion, 4,000 slots for refugees from Iraq who helped the United States, and 1,000 slots for refugees from El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras. That leaves 5,000 for all others.

Story continues

Even though 4,000 slots were allocated for Iraqis affiliated with the United States during the 2020 fiscal year, only 123 had been resettled as of Sept. 25, according to government figures.

A law called the Refugee Act of 1980 created the modern U.S. refugee resettlement program. The cap set for refugees in the subsequent four decades has never been as low as the one planned for 2021. Before President Barack Obama left office, he set the cap for fiscal year 2017 at 110,000 refugees, but Trump slashed that in half soon after becoming president.

Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden has pledged to raise refugee admissions to 125,000 a year if he defeats Trump. Advocates have said the refugee program could take years to recover after Trump-era reductions.

Tens of thousands of refugees are in the pipeline for arrival to the United States, many with applications far along in the approval and vetting process.

Krish Vignarajah, president and CEO of Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, which helps resettle recently arrived refugees, wrote on Twitter that the Trump administration's cuts represent "a complete abdication of our moral duty and all that we stand for as a nation."

(Reporting by Kristina Cooke in Los Angeles and Mica Rosenberg in New York; Additional reporting by Mimi Dwyer in Los Angeles; Editing by Robert Birsel and Will Dunham)
Kate Garraway smiled as she left Smooth Radio in central London on Thursday, after tearfully hitting out at coronavirus rule breakers on Good Morning Britain.

The presenter, 53, looked chic in black denim dungarees and a pretty floral shirt, and completed her outfit with a white overcoat as she strutted into Global Studios.

On GMB earlier in the day, Kate said she wants to show lockdown rule-breakers a picture of her husband Derek Draper 'in his current state' as he continues to battle COVID-19.

Stepping out: Kate Garraway looked chic as she headed to work at Smooth FM after issuing a stark warning to lockdown rule-breakers amid husband Derek's coronavirus battle

The mother-of-two put on a brave face as she made her way to work, carrying all her essentials in a large cream bag.

She elongated her legs with a pair of black suede boots and made sure to put safety first by donning a face mask as she left the building after her shift.

Kate wore her blonde tresses in a smart bob and looked typically radiant with a natural makeup look.

Radiant: The presenter, 53, opted for black denim dungarees and a pretty floral shirt, and completed her outfit with a white overcoat as she strutted into Global Studios

Style: The mother-of-two put on a brave face as she headed to work, carrying all her essentials in a large cream bag

Earlier on Thursday, Kate said she wanted to show lockdown rule-breakers a picture of her husband Derek Draper 'in his current state' as he continues to battle COVID-19.

Visibly fighting back tears, she revealed her husband's parents had been unable to visit the former lobbyist, 53, since he was hospitalised on March 29, and urged viewers to maintain government guidelines.

In a stark warning to those flouting the rules, Kate said: 'You don't want this in your life. You don't know who it will affect and how.'

Lovely: She elongated her legs with a pair of black suede boots as she strutted out of the studios in central London

Pretty: Kate wore her blonde tresses in a smart bob and looked typically radiant with a natural makeup look

Kind-hearted: Kate waved as she left the studios

The daytime television star's words of warning come amid reports Derek's battle with coronavirus has become the 'longest in the UK,' after spending 184 days in and out of intensive care.

An emotional Kate urged viewers to keep following the guidelines, after host Susanna Reid asked for her feelings on the nation's growing fatigue towards masks and social distancing.

She said: 'I have huge sympathy with people who are fed up with it.

Gorgeous: Kate nailed daytime chic in her lovely autumnal outfit as she continued her busy day in London

Stylish: The presenter looked classy in her monochrome outfit which she teamed with a big leather handbag

Best foot forward: She appeared to be in a good mood despite issuing the stark warning about coronavirus earlier in the day

Out and about: At one point Kate took a break from her stroll to check her phone on the pavement

'I think if you haven't been directly touched by it, you haven't seen the devastation, your life has been devastated, your livelihood, your ability to feel a sense of joy, you're going to get frustrated.

'It does make me tempted to show a picture of Derek in his current state and say "You don't want this in your life. You don't know who it will affect and how". So stick to it.'

'There's huge confusion around it, but we kind of know wearing a mask, social distancing, we know the basics, and we have to do our best in the muddle.'

'There are so many shades of grey. If we stick to basics we can hopefully get through it.'

Toned: The mother-of-two showed off her lithe legs in the black dungarees which she teamed with black boots

Busy day: Kate had all her essentials with her as she left the studios after her presenting slot

Serious: Earlier on Thursday, Kate admitted she wants to show lockdown rulebreakers a picture of her husband Derek Draper, as he continues to battle COVID-19

Struggling to fight back tears, Kate then added: 'Derek's mum and dad haven't been able to see Derek.

'If they can go six months without giving a hug to their son, who's so desperately ill, the rest of us can probably get through.

'Sorry, I didn't mean to depress everybody. That's the reality of getting caught up in the virus directly.'

The discussion came after Prime Minister Boris Johnson's father Stanley was pictured shopping without a face covering, and former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn was revealed to have attended a dinner party with nine guests, more than the legal limit.

Hard: Kate urged viewers to keep following the government guidelines, after host Susanna Reid asked for her feelings on the growing fatigue towards masks and social distancing

Fighting it: The presenter revealed her husband's parents had been unable to visit Derek since he'd been hospitalised back in March (Kate and Derek are pictured in December 2019)

Earlier this week Lorraine Kelly also threw her support behind Kate as she lambasted anti-lockdown protesters as 'ridiculous' and 'irresponsible.'

She said: 'I was fuming at the weekend! The protests! I absolutely would love to take these people by the hand and show them the reality [of COVID-19]!'

'Wouldn't you like our Kate Garraway to have a wee word with [the protesters] and tell them about the hell she's been living through with her husband!' Lorraine hissed. 'It's absolutely ridiculous and totally irresponsible!'

On Monday it was reported that Kate's husband Derek has become the longest surviving patient with coronavirus, after spending 184 days in and out of intensive care.

Important: Fighting back tears, Kate added: 'If they can go six months without giving a hug to their son, who's so desperately ill, the rest of us can probably get through'

The former lobbyist was first hospitalised with the disease on March 29, he was on a ventilator and put in an induced coma shortly thereafter before he was woken up in July, but progress is said to be 'very slow.'

According to a report from The Sun on Monday, Derek is one of 'only a handful' of people to be in hospital for six months with coronavirus.

A source speaking to the publication claimed: 'Kate has been so brave and her strength is awe-inspiring. But the truth is that progress is very, very slow.

'Derek has now been hospitalised for six months which makes him one of only a handful of people who have been in hospital for this long.

'It's incredibly tough for Kate though because some days he shows signs of improvement, and then 24 hours later he has taken a worrying turn for the worse. It's literally one step forward, two steps back.'

The source went on to claim that Kate is thankful Derek is 'still here' as it means she has hope he will pull through after so many have lose their loved ones.

Derek was hospitalised after suffering serious complications from Covid-19 and has remained in intensive care ever since, in a minimally conscious state from which no one knows if he will ever recover.

Speaking to the Mail On Sunday's YOU magazine about the family's ordeal earlier this month, Kate revealed doctors had warned her Derek wouldn't survive, and expressed her shock at seeing his appearance as his 'worn-out and thin' body struggled to fight the virus.

Illness: Derek was first hospitalised with the disease on March 29, he was on a ventilator and put in an induced coma shortly thereafter before he was woken up in July

Derek, who she revealed has lost eight stone during the battle, is one of an estimated just five people in the world whose bodies have been damaged so much by Covid.

Kate recalled: 'Doctors were saying, "He's not going to make it.'Unable to breathe, he was put into a medical coma to give his lungs a rest. Before he went under, he called Kate and said, "I love you, you've saved my life."

For several weeks, the family's only contact with Derek was through hospital staff, so when Kate first saw her husband, she found him unrecognisable.

Kate recalled: 'When I finally got to FaceTime him, seeing him unconscious was a big shock.

'He's lost nearly eight stone in weight, a lot of it muscle throughout his body. He looked worn-out, thin and pale with dark circles under his eyes and there were lots of tubes.'

In July Derek emerged from his deep coma and started showing some signs of consciousness, occasionally opening his eyes.

Only a few weeks ago, Kate was finally allowed to visit Derek in hospital. Coronavirus precautions mean the children and Derek's parents haven't been able to yet.

Kate and Derek married in 2005, and share daughter Darcey, 14, and son Billy, 11.

Earlier this year, Kate took a break from work in order to look after their children in lockdown and be there for Derek, but has since returned to Good Morning Britain, and her mid-morning slot on Smooth Radio.
Bangladesh: A cyclone, pandemic and struggle for survival in coastal

by Stephan Uttom RozarioStephan Uttom and Rock Ronald Rozario, Satkhira

October 01,2020 | Source: UCA News

For Sabura Begum, 35, life has always been an everyday struggle for survival  to eat three meals a day, have clothes to wear and sleep in a two-room, fenced and tin-roofed house with her children and husband. Sabura is a Bengali Muslim mother of three sons living in the Gabura area of Shyamnagar subdistrict of Bangladesh's coastal Satkhira district. The area, close to the famous Sundarbans mangrove forests, is extremely remote and surrounded by rivers connected with the Bay of Bengal, making it inaccessible without a boat at most times of the year. It takes about three hours by boat to have a look around villages in Gabura.



Largely unsustainable muddy river embankments meant for protection of villages are a mere consolation as they struggle to withstand frequent high tides, flooding and storms. Houses get flooded and washed away each year, causing misery for villagers. The intrusion of saline water makes agriculture impossible in the area, so vast fields have been turned into shrimp, eel and crab farms. Most villagers are fisherfolk, work on fish, shrimp and crab farms or collect honey from the forest. Collecting pure drinking water is a major challenge and many villagers need to walk several kilometers to fetch water.



Like their fellow villagers. Sabura and her husband have been through a two-edged crisis this year  Covid-19 and Cyclone Amphan have made them even poorer and presented more hardships. I was a crab farm worker and my husband collects honey from the forest and crabs from rivers to sell in the market. I was fired with most workers when the coronavirus hit the business. The price of crab also dropped, so my husband could earn less than half what he could make before. We started struggling to eat two times a day properly, Sabura told UCA News.



Then, on May 20, Cyclone Amphan, one of the strongest storms in decades, hit coastal areas of Bangladesh and India, leaving about 118 dead and affecting millions. The extremely strong wind blew away the tin roof of Saburas house and a powerful tidal surge smashed village embankments and washed away bamboo fences. The family survived thanks to taking refuge at a cyclone shelter. After the cyclone, Sabura received aid from local NGOs and rebuilt the house. She has received minimal food and cash aid from charities, and they have run out fast. The loss of livelihoods continues to plague the family. The tidal surge has caused enormous damage for us and other villagers. We have been already suffering due to loss of work and income due to the coronavirus. We are struggling to eat properly each day, and we look at the government and NGOs desperately like beggars for some help, Sabura lamented.



Prosenjit Munda, 29, an indigenous Munda, has been facing similar hardships to Saburas family. He owns a shrimp farm of 1.33 acres in Gabura and works as daily wager in brick kilns. His farm and house were washed away by Cyclone Amphan. I invested 10,000 taka [US$118] in the shrimp farm and all are gone. There is a scarcity of work in the area due to the coronavirus. Brick kilns are shut due to the rainy season. We are struggling to manage two square meals a day, Prosenjit, a Hindu, told UCA News.



He said the cyclone and tidal surge were extremely severe, while broken river embankments have not been reconstructed even months after the cyclone. Now and then the village gets flooded during high tide, making lives difficult. There is no work, no aid and people are helpless and suffering, he added. Media reports and data from aid agencies suggest millions of people in the coastal region are languishing in suffering months after the deadly cyclone.



Millions still need support



Caritas Khulna is one of the aid groups covering the southern coastal region and it carries out projects covering most affected areas like Gabura. Following Covid-19 and Amphan, Caritas has offered aid packages to 3,500 families of affected communities including food, cash and house-building support, said Daud Jibon Das, Caritas Khulna regional director. People living in coastal areas are among the poorest and most vulnerable in the country. Due to Covid-19 and Cyclone Amphan, millions of people have become penniless and helpless. Without substantial support they cannot stand on their own feet, even in years, Das told UCA News. Many programs and activities are carried out by government and non-government agencies in coastal areas on an emergency basis but not for sustainable support and development, he said. The efforts are often wasted as actual needs remain unaddressed. Better and stronger embankments should be erected, thousands of trees must be planted and people need to get help for better housing so that they dont need the same kind of support after every storm, he added.



Promises of assistance



The people of Gabura continue to suffer but efforts are underway to help them, said G.M. Masudul Islam, chairman of Gabura Union Council, a local government body. Thousands of villagers are trapped by inundation and waterlogging following the cyclone as broken river dams were not repaired. Stronger dams will be constructed by the military starting from November when the rainy season will be over, Islam told UCA News.



Abujar Gifari, chief government officer in Shyamnagar, said the government has been collaborating with NGOs to assist needy people and noted that many still require support for rebuilding of lives. We faced multiple crises starting from Covid-19, the cyclone and a monsoon full of heavy rain. Strong currents in the river made it impossible to repair broken river dams. The military will be assigned to fix the dams. Aid support for most affected people has been going on, Gifari told UCA News.



Cyclone Amphan has affected 26 coastal districts in Bangladesh and caused damage worth 11 billion taka, according to government data. The storm destroyed 50,000 houses completely and 167,000 houses partially. In the Indian state of West Bengal, the cyclone affected about 13 million people, destroyed 1 million houses and crops of over 100,000 acres and killed about 1 million livestock. Experts warned the cyclone has pushed thousands of people into extreme poverty who were already badly hit by the economic fallout from Covid-19. In April, Zahid Hussain, a leading economist at the World Bank, predicted that due to Covid-19 about 50 million people in Bangladesh, who live slightly above the poverty line by earning more than $2 per day, may fall below the line in the aftermath.
Theft and burglary were the topmost crimes committed in about 2,770 communities across the country, in May and June, this year, a survey conducted by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) has revealed.



This was followed by domestic violence and assault, in communities which shared borders with other countries, lockdown areas, and communities which had neither lockdown nor shared borders with other localities.



These came to light yesterday when the Government Statistician, Professor Samuel Kobina Annim, briefed journalists about the survey, which focused on the impact of the COVID-19 on local communities.



It was conducted through its Local Economies Tracker, which spanned over the months of May and June, 2020.



Prof Annim stated that, while, there was a general increase in criminal activities by 34.1 per cent, localities in lockdown areas had the highest increase in crime rate, recording 47.1 per cent of all the crimes committed with the period under consideration.



According to Prof Annim, the COVID-19, with its attendant lockdown and restrictions, also led to the reduction in business, production and sales, particularly, in Greater Kumasi, Greater Accra, and Awutu Senya East.



He said that, As a result of the lockdown restrictions in March 2020 by the government in Greater Kumasi, and Greater Accra, including the Awutu Senya East, most businesses saw reductions in production (71.7 per cent), sales (89.7 percent), and labour supply (36.0 per cent).



Prof Annim said that there was also an increase in the cost of credit, which witnessed a 25.9 per cent increase, under the period of consideration.



Similarly, the prices of products within the lockdown period observed shot up in all localities across the country, with food and non-alcoholic beverages recording the highest price rise.



Generally, transport cost, alcoholic beverages, tobacco, and narcotics equally observed increment, although, prices of transport in lockdown districts saw a reduction, compared to border and other communities.



Prof Annim explained that, the reduction was, possibly due to the restrictions on movements in such districts, while, border districts recorded higher prices in food and alcoholic beverages, compared to lockdown and other regions.



He also said, majority of the individuals in lockdown communities received support from various individuals, including Members of Parliament, as well as government and non-state institutions.





Prof Annim indicated that cooked and uncooked food, and veronica bucket were the most items provided as mitigating measures against the COVID-19.



Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), and water were also provided to individuals, especially, those in lockdown areas, while, cash was the least item provided to lessen the burden of the disease on the people.



Prof Annim noted that, more than half of the localities (55.1 per cent) had structures which helped in recovering from the shock of the COVID-19, although, relatively, lockdown areas had less resilience to shock, compared to other districts.



The GSS has recommended that government should formalise and integrate local communities and lend credence to their role in national development.

Source: The Ghanaian Times









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DURHAM/KAWARTHA: The Ontario provincial government is allowing testing for COVID-19 to be conducted in pharmacies.

The announcement was made by provincial officials on Wednesday, September 23rd.

Expanding testing to pharmacies is part of our plan to ensure we are ready for future waves of COVID-19. With the recent increase in the number of cases, we are providing people with more options for testing, to identify cases of COVID-19 early, Ontario health minister Christine Elliott said, during a press conference.

As of Friday, September 25th, up to 60 locations were allowed to begin offering testing to the public by appointment only. While the majority of those locations were in areas like: Mississauga, Markham, Brampton, Toronto and Huntsville, the province stated, in a press release, further locations will be coming online in the coming weeks.

However, the Port Perry Shoppers Drug Mart store is not expected to be one of those locations anytime soon.

We will not be a COVID testing centre for the foreseeable future, read an email response from store owner Saeed Zafar Ali.

Lindsay Shoppers Drug Mart store owner, Mahvash Noorbakhsh, explained to The Standard the process the company is going through.

Shoppers Drug Mart will be launching an Asymptomatic COVID-19 Testing program in 43 stores across the province. Mostly it is starting in [the] GTA and Ottawa, not yet in our store.
Two years after her first-ever run for public office resulted in the defeat of a nine-term Republican incumbent, Democratic U.S. Rep. Lizzie Fletcher faces re-election with a solid record of accomplishment and a reputation for working across the aisle and serving constituents.

She has kept her promises.

We recommend that voters in Texas 7th Congressional District let her continue the job she has started.

Fletcher is challenged by Republican Wesley Hunt, a West Point graduate who served as a helicopter pilot in Iraq and as a diplomatic liaison officer in Saudi Arabia. He now works in real estate.

Libertarian candidate Shawn Kelly, a drafter-designer in the oil and gas industry, is also on the ballot.

Although a political novice, Fletcher, 45, hit the ground running in her first term, authoring a bill to cut federal red tape and speed disaster recovery funding that was much needed in the Houston area.

The measure passed the House with just seven votes against as Fletcher teamed with Fort Bend Republican Rep. Pete Olson and even pulled in conservative North Carolina Republican Mark Meadows as a co-sponsor. Meadows is now President Donald Trumps chief of staff.

Fletcher also smartly sought spots on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, where she is chair of the energy subcommittee. Other panels might be more glamorous or attention-grabbing but they are not as crucial to the interests of the region NASA calls home and where the oil and gas industry and the Houston Ship Channel mean jobs, commerce and development.

While some members of the progressive wing of her party have grabbed headlines, Fletcher has made her mark through hard work and coalition building.

I dont know how many other people, Fletcher told the editorial board, have been endorsed by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce with a 100 percent rating from the AFL-CIO.

That is an approach and an attitude the voters should reward on Nov. 3.
I don't think Rome's decline was nearly as spectacular as where the USA is headed. Tim Schroder, Gordon Biden v Trump: the American uncivil war. The carefully crafted system of democracy pioneered by the ancient Athenians 25 centuries ago has morphed into the Circus Maximus. Doug Walker, Baulkham Hills Biden and Harris's persistent message to the American people should be that if you are one of the many poor, unemployed and racially abused Americans that also lack affordable healthcare "in the world's greatest democracy", you must all rise up come election day and tell Trump "you're fired". Alan Edwards, Roseville One day we will have a republic. But the Trump-Biden debate gives us reason to hasten slowly. With all its faults, our present system is unlikely to leave us with a head of state as worrying as both candidates are. There is no assurance that a republic would not. Greg McCarry, Epping I am more one for cryptic crosswords than conspiracies, but if you Google anagrams of the two words "covfefe" and "COVID", you get ''coiffed'', ''devoice'', ''ecocide'' and, finally, ''effed''. James Wall, Sutton Forest

Summing up the post-debate commentary: Make. America. Again. Peter Rylands, Braidwood Narrabri gas field will be fought to the bitter end The community of Gloucester is in no doubt as to the devastation being felt in Narrabri and other communities in the north-west NSW (''Giant gasfield another step closer'', October 1). For the Independent Planning Commission to have ignored the overwhelming Australia-wide community rejection and scientific reasoning as to why this ill-fated CSG disaster should not go ahead just reinforces that government and industry bed-hop all the way to the bank. It took 12 years to rid our beautiful valley and Manning catchment of AGLs $1.2 billion disaster of a CSG-well gasfield; the destruction to our community, the terrible social impacts and loss of trust in government and industry was profound. We fought back, as Narrabri and all who support them will. Greed and belligerence dominate the fossil fuel industry. Climate action and environmental justice drives the communities who will save and care for their places. Julie Lyford, Gloucester Why must gas extraction be expanded to such an enormous degree when it is so dangerous on many levels? Putting the integrity of the groundwater system in peril in this area is an important reason why this project cannot proceed. Once the groundwater is polluted  or worse, gone  the desertification of Australia will be accelerated. Judith Rostron, Killarney Heights

Most people cannot imagine the huge toll this decision has on farmers and those who fear the pollution and many dangers of mining coal seam gas in our rich Narrabri farmlands and diversely rich Pilliga forest. Santos will extract and poison massive amounts of precious water so vital for the foods we all need, leaving untold amounts of dangerous toxic salt waste and add to the problems of our ailing Murray-Darling river system  and much more. What did Santos do to get the nod? It now has permission to pollute with an outdated industry that belongs in the last century, and will never be able to live up to the promises of cheap energy and bountiful jobs. Keelah Lam, Fairlight Federal and state governments have pushed for this decision in favour of Santos. I am outraged by the lack of care shown for our inland river systems, the Great Artesian Basin, our communities and the wildlife we want protected. This decision is not the end of the story. Elisabeth Dark, Annandale Do we need to educate the IPC on the definition of the word "independent"? Or would it be more sensible to rename the commission the NSW Fossil Fuel Planning Commission? Margaret Grove, Abbotsford Manufacturing is our weakness, not our strength

"We make things in Australia. We do it well. And we need to keep making things in Australia," says Scott Morrison ("Blueprint to rebuild nation's industries", October 1). Is he for real? Sydney's new light rail and metro trains built in Spain and India. NSW inter-city trains, built in South Korea. Submarines built in France. In 2014 the then defence minister said, "I wouldn't trust them [the Australian Submarine Corporation] to build a canoe." What's changed between then and now? There's nothing like a recession to show how flimsy our economy really is. Benjamin Rushton, Birchgrove The government's plan, announced by the PM, to boost the manufacturing sector is welcome news. But can we be assured that the initial grants to be awarded to local companies in the "manufacturing modernisation" stage will be given fairly, rather than being handed out to Coalition-supporting companies? After the sports rorts scandal I am sceptical this may turn out to be a political donation competition. Sandra Burke, North Sydney Given the major difficulties the Coalition encountered when distributing the sports grants, can the Commonwealth Auditor-General's office be beefed up significantly so it has the capacity to monitor closely the massive grants schemes that look like soaking up most of the $1.5 billion assigned for the manufacturing initiative? Sue Dyer, Downer (ACT) Morrison is correct about Australia making things. We make up things. We make promises we don't keep. We make mistakes. And we make lamingtons. Tony Doyle, Fairy Meadow Port in a storm

The Prime Minister's comments and others who are critical of the port dispute disrupting our trade are absolutely correct  it is very wrong at this time ("No medical shortages from port union action", October 1). What is also wrong is to blame one side for the action. A dispute is between two parties and both sides need to be held to account for any disruption that occurs. Why doesn't the PM blame Patrick as well as the union, or better still, let them sort it out? Howard Clark, Ryde The Maritime Union has a long and embarrassing history of being shamelessly self serving without consideration for the welfare of the broader community it serves. Wharfies earn on average more than $150,000 annually. This is a staggering amount considering it is not essential to be an astrophysicist to do the job. The union's national secretary said the "public will be left in no doubt which party is responsible for escalating this unnecessary conflict". He is quite right. John Whiteing, Willoughby Stem the tide Macquarie University is reported to be considering cutting courses in STEM degrees and majors for financial reasons ( "Macquarie uni poised to slash courses", October 1). If this occurs and spreads to other universities we will very rapidly cease to be the lucky country. Now, more than ever, we need to be educating our best and brightest students in the technologies of the future. Stephanie Edwards, Roseville Just Jacqui

The Tasmanian independent Senator reminds us how a healthy democracy operates ("Lambie opposes funding changes", October 1). Undoubtedly the government will cajole other crossbenchers to gain the numbers needed to pass its funding reforms of universities. However, regardless of what unfolds, Senator Lambie has demonstrated increasingly rare qualities in a politician; honesty and integrity. Demanding those qualities are exercised by her Canberra colleagues in their policy negotiations is equally commendable. Cleveland Rose, Dee Why Tax cut fallacy Jessica Irvine avoids mentioning that people earning less than $50,000 pa will get a paltry amount extra each week to spend ("Tax cuts make sense, practically", October 1). The commentary has suggested it will barely be enough for a cup of coffee. As many others have asked, would we not get more spending by keeping JobSeeker at the COVID level, or better? Or increasing pensions? Or ensuring no fees for state schools, and your first degree or certification free? People struggling to afford the basics in life are hardly going to stimulate the economy with the piddling amount they will get. Peter Thompson, Killara I would be quite happy to receive a tax cut so I can buy a big new TV as long as I was confident that people in aged care are all living with dignity, every person with a mental health problem had access to adequate and timely treatment, every person who is unemployed has enough money to afford the basics of life and maintain their self-respect, every child had equality in education and when homelessness and poverty are virtually non-existent in our society.

Rather than seeing the proposed tax cuts as some sort of economic tool for good, I view them as bordering on the obscene. Whatever way you look at it the rich get richer and the poor get poorer. Phil Peak, Dubbo This government still characterises the unemployed as lazy, drug-taking young people who have to be "incentivised" to get a job ("Mums and older women become the new face of unemployment", October 1). Of course the answer to unemployment is jobs, but until the government can guarantee a secure job for all unemployed, they need to give the unemployed a damn sight more respect, and maintain the current JobSeeker rate. Sandra Pertot, Diamond Beach ABC deserves more Communications Minister Paul Fletcher says he's disappointed ABC staff voted not to defer the 2 per cent pay rise that had previously been confirmed as part of their Enterprise Agreement ("ABC staff vote against pay rise freeze", October 1). He feels it would have been a "fine gesture of solidarity" with their colleagues in the commercial media. The Minister conveniently overlooks two pertinent facts. Most pay rates for equivalent work in the commercial sector are higher than current ABC salaries, and, the so-called "independent" media spend much of their time attacking the ABC and its staff. David Salter, Hunters Hill

Forward thinking As daylight saving arrives this weekend, these inconvenient facts might pre-empt the whingers who want to turn the clock back instead of forward. Without daylight saving in operation on the summer solstice, first light would be at 4.08am  great for broken sleep. For all of February and March, the sun would set before 7pm  so much for enjoying a long summer's evening after work.

Civilised countries enjoy daylight saving, and thankfully sensible states and territories in Australia do so too. Norman Monshall, Allambie Heights Numbers too big to ignore Vale Helen Reddy. We all heard her roar. Vicky Marquis, Glebe Reddys iconic I Am Woman is indeed a unifying anthem for women. As a teenager in the seventies in the school hall, the students stood as one, belting out this song at the close of assemblies. Our principal made a powerful decision, as our voices would also have been heard by the neighbouring boys school. Sharon McGuinness, Thirroul
Indian Army on Thursday said Pakistan initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation along LoC in Keran and Machhal Sectors of Kupwara district in the afternoon by firing artillery guns, mortars and other weapons. Befitting response is being given, the Army has said.

Early in the day, two soldiers were killed and four injured in an unprovoked ceasefire violation by Pakistani troops along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmirs Naugam sector.

Pakistan initiated an unprovoked ceasefire violation along the LoC in Naugam sector, Kupwara on Thursday morning by firing mortars and other weapons, Srinagar-based defence spokesperson Colonel Rajesh Kalia said.

He said two soldiers were killed and four sustained injuries in the firing from across the border.

The injured personnel are being evacuated while a befitting response is being given to the Pakistani firing, he added.

This year has seen a number of ceasefire violations by Pakistan from across the LoC, especially in north Kashmir.

On Wednesday, Lance Naik Karnail Singh was killed during shelling by Pakistan along the 744 km-long LoC in Krishna Ghati (KG) sector of Jammu and Kashmirs Poonch district. The deceased soldier was a native of Loha Khera in Sangrur district of Punjab.

On Monday, an army soldier was injured when Pakistani forces opened fire on the Indian pickets in north Kashmirs Machil sector.
Two Italian daily newspapers have suggested that the Italian authorities will extend the current health emergency regulations, due to end mid-October, until the end of January, 2021.

The two dailies say their information comes from Wednesday evening's cabinet meeting, which was dominated by the continued spread of Covid-19 infections in the peninsula.

One of the papers, Il Messagero, stresses that no firm decision has yet been taken on an extension of the health restrictions.

Italy's state of emergency, due to expire in two weeks, gives the government additional powers to deal with the coronavirus health crisis, including the rapid validation of laws and statutes related to the control of the coronavirus.

Germany extends list of high-risk zones

Germany, meanwhile, has added neighbouring Belgium to its list of high-risk areas, which already includes virtually all of France.

In total, 17 EU nations are now totally or partially considered high-risk by the German health authorities.

In practical terms, Germans are warned against making non-essential voyages to areas in the so-called red zone.

Any country or region which has reported more than 50 cases of Covid-19 infection for every 100,000 inhabitants in the past seven days, is considered a high-risk zone.

Germans returning from such zones must undergo coronavirus testing, and remain in quarantine until they are certified Covid-free.

Chancellor Angela Merkel on Tuesday called for stricter measures to control the spread of coronavirus, warning that Germany could see the daily number of infections rise to 19,200 in December, a massive increase on the current average of 2,400 cases per day.
The leader of the PiS Party (Law and Justice) Jaroslaw Kaczynski is considered Poland's ultimate powerbroker. Commentators believe he is joining the government to defuse tensions with PiS coalition partners.

What Jaroslaw Kaczynski lacks in height, he more than makes up for in political acumen, audacity and clout which have kept him at the heart of Polish politics.

The feisty 71-year-old is widely considered Poland's ultimate powerbroker -- steering the government as leader of the right-wing Law and Justice (PiS) party from its Warsaw headquarters.

So far he has called the shots as a regular MP, but will now join the PiS-dominated government as a deputy prime minister in what commentators see as a bid to quell power struggles with his party's two smaller coalition parnters.

"The Chairman's Ear", a political satire, portrayed Kaczynski as a dishevelled, short and plump bachelor ruling his party, its government and ultimately Poland with an iron will, all while doting on his beloved cat.

Since taking office in 2015, Kaczynski's PiS has in many ways upended Polish politics, with observers saying it has crafted a central European brand of illiberal democracy similar to that forged by Viktor Orban in Hungary.

While critics including the European Union say the PiS's judicial reforms violate the rule of law, pushing Poland away from its European partners and ushering in a creeping authoritarianism, supporters hail its welfare measures, including a popular child allowance, pension and wage hikes, all aimed at creating an effective social safety net.

Brushing aside criticism, Kaczynski says that far from undermining democracy, his party's judicial reforms are aimed at tackling corruption and removing the last vestiges of communism from the justice system.

- Polarising -

A master of political intrigue since playing a behind-the-scenes role in the Solidarity trade union's dismantling of communism in Poland in 1989, Kaczynski is a highly combative and polarising figure.

On the campaign trail ahead of the October 2019 general election, he attacked Poland's LGBT community as a "threat" to traditional families and thanked a senior Catholic Polish clergyman for labelling the community a "rainbow plague".

Story continues

During the 2015 campaign, as Europe was grappling with its biggest migrant crisis since World War II, Kaczynski claimed refugees were bringing "cholera to the Greek islands, dysentery to Vienna, various types of parasites" -- comments that critics said recalled the Nazi era.

Since taking power, the PiS has pursued its vision of a conservative, Catholic Poland that is vigilant of its interests abroad, but critics warn that its inward-looking, nationalist approach has triggered a rise in xenophobia.

Some who know him well say that Kaczynski, who speaks only Polish and rarely travels abroad, sees danger in anything foreign.

He has long been a fierce critic of the strong brand of EU federalism championed by powerhouses Germany and France and is among a growing number of populist leaders advocating a reform agenda for the bloc that favours national sovereignty over federalism.

- Life of politics -

In 2010, Kaczynski was deeply scarred by the death of his identical twin brother Lech Kaczynski, then Poland's president, who was among 96 senior officials killed when his jet crashed in Smolensk in eastern Russia.

Kaczynski has long insisted that the crash was no accident even though Polish and Russian investigators found that pilot error, bad weather and poor air-traffic control were to blame.

The Kaczynski twins grabbed the limelight with a short stint as child stars, starring in the popular 1962 Polish film "The Two Who Stole The Moon", about a couple of scheming urchins.

A cat lover who never married, Jaroslaw lived with his mother, with whom he was very close, until her death in 2013.

Kaczynski has dedicated his life to politics. He co-founded the PiS with Lech in 2001 and went on to serve as prime minister in 2006 and 2007 while his brother was president.

A lawyer and strident anti-communist in the 1970s, Kaczynski joined dissidents in the underground opposition that blossomed into the Solidarity movement in 1980, which sparked the fall of the communist regime nine years later.

He was close to Solidarity leader Lech Walesa, who was elected president in 1990, but has since accused him of being a former communist agent, a claim Walesa has fiercely denied.

mas/dt/lc
The European Union has launched legal proceedings against Britain, after London refused to scrap plans to overturn sections of a withdrawal deal it has already signed with the bloc.

The EU had asked the UK government to remove parts of the Internal Market Bill by Wednesday.

The proposed law, by London's own admission, overwrites parts of the withdrawal treaty that was signed with EU leaders this year, resulting in a breach of international law.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has described the bill as a safety net in case ongoing post-Brexit trade talks fail and the EU tries to impose a border between Britain and Northern Ireland.

But the EU sees the agreement already signed as crucial to preventing a return of a hard border on the island of Ireland between Ireland, an EU member state and Northern Ireland which is part of the UK. It is widely thought that a hard border would be a serious threat to the Good Friday peace deal that ended decades of bombs and violence in Northern Ireland.

'Full contradiction' of previous UK commitments

A letter of formal notice was sent to the British government by the European Commission today, it could eventually lead to a court case against UK at the European Court of Justice, the EU's highest court for ruling on disputes.

In a brief statement today, EU commission president Ursula von der Leyen said the Internal Market Bill was a full contradiction of previous UK commitments on how a hard border could be avoided within the island of Ireland.

She said the UK had until the end of November to respond to the EU's concerns.

A spokesman for the UK government said London would respond formally to the action in due course.

The law has been approved by the British lower house of parliament but has not yet been approved by the House of Lords.

Meanwhile talks between both sides to try to agree a future deal on trade and other matters are continuing this week in Brussels.
Madrid and its suburbs prepared Thursday to enter a soft lockdown that restricts trips in and out of the Spanish capital following a weeks-long political turf war that experts say has prevented an effective response to the coronavirus in Europes latest infection hot spot.

Regional President Isabel Diaz Ayuso said she would implement new national health regulations that impose restrictions on movement, business and social activity in large Spanish cities with high infection rates while Madrid also mounts a legal challenge to the national government order requiring the measures.

The Spanish Health Ministrys new standards give the countrys 19 regions two days to cap social gatherings at a maximum of six people and limit shop and restaurant hours in large cities that have recorded a 2-week infection rate of at least 500 cases per 100,000 residents. The regulations also mandate restrictions on entering and leaving such cities.

Nationwide, only Madrid and nine of its suburban towns met the criteria as of Thursday, with a 2-week regional infection rate of 695 cases per 100,000 people, Europes highest. The publication of the Health Ministry standards in Spains official gazette Thursday means the regional government needs to issue by Friday evening its own orders laying out specific measures and their effective date.

The centre-right regional government has resisted the stricter curbs in the city of 3.3 million and its suburbs due to concerns about damaging the economy.

Speaking at the regional assembly, Diaz Ayuso accused Spains left-wing coalition government of targeting Madrid with an arbitrary order for political reasons and disregarding her efforts to contain the second wave of the virus.

This government is not in rebellion, Diaz Ayuso said, adding that she would challenge the new regulations in court to defend the legitimate interests of the people of Madrid so that the measures conform to reality, so they are objective and fair.

Diaz Ayuso said her legal challenge was intended to avoid a return to the queues of hunger and unemployment from earlier in the pandemic that she blamed on the national government led by Socialist Pedro Sanchez.

Spanish Deputy Prime Minister Carmen Calvo responded that the national government only has one adversary, the pandemic. The regional government, Calvo said, has a right to appeal the order, but they are obliged to execute it.

Seven mayors of smaller municipalities in the Madrid region surrounding the capital issued a statement supporting the ministrys measures and taking aim at Ayusos resistance.

The attitude of disobedience regarding the rules adopted by the Madrid region places us in a serious problem of managing the crisis, the mayors of Alcala de Henares, Alcorcon, Fuenlabrada, Getafe, Mostoles, Leganes and Parla said.

Confirmed COVID-19 cases have risen steadily nationwide since a state of emergency declared over the pandemic ended in late June. Sanchez handed over control of health systems to regional governments, but they approached summer outbreaks with different strategies and results.

While contact tracing has been almost invisible in the Madrid region, officials there have spent 50 million euros ($58 million) in building a pandemics hospital with 1,000 beds that they expect to be ready by the end of the year. Regional officials have accused the central government of not helping enough to provide widespread testing and other programs to curb outbreaks.

The health ministrys top virus expert, Fernando Simon, said that the light-handed measures taken previously by Madrid officials had not had the desired effect and urged the public to maintain their compliance with social distancing and use of face masks. Simon was especially concerned with the 42% of Madrids intensive care beds already occupied by COVID-19 patients.

During this week there have been discrepancies (between regional and central authorities) and those can be legitimate, but I believe that by now the population knows what the key measures are to control the pandemic, Simon said. The restrictions in Madrid need to be tightened.

Dr. Salvador Mancip, a researcher with the University of Leicester and the Open University of Catalonia, said the European Union should establish science-based criteria that dictate specific outbreak-response measures rather than leaving it up to countries or regions to make decisions based on different thresholds.

While in the U.K. restrictions are being implemented when the rate of infection soars over 100, Madrid has waited to start discussing them with a rate 10 times higher, said Mancip, the author of Modern Epidemics, a book about how major outbreaks and illnesses have unfolded during the 20th and 21st centuries.

He cited Spain and the United States as examples of how politically shaken countries have some of the worlds highest coronavirus caseloads, suggesting that chaotic politics could have a direct effect on death tolls.

Severe measures should be taken as early as possible in order to shorten their time span, and thats what politicians havent understood yet, the researcher said. The mistake of not acting fast and bluntly is paid later by restrictions that need to be taken and have damaging effects.

Spain has reported a total of 778,600 confirmed infections, the highest in Europe, and 31,973 deaths, the continents third-highest death toll after the U.K. and Italy. According to experts, all numbers understate the true toll of the pandemic due to limited testing and other factors.

___

Follow APs pandemic coverage at http://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak and https://apnews.com/UnderstandingtheOutbreak

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By AFP

PARIS: Covid-19 patients with a snippet of Neanderthal DNA that crossed into the human genome some 60,000 years ago run a higher risk of severe complications from the disease, researchers have reported.

People infected with the new coronavirus, for example, who carry the genetic coding bequeathed by our early human cousins are three times more likely to need mechanical ventilation, according to a study published Wednesday in Nature.

There are many reasons why some people with Covid-19 wind up in intensive care and others have only light symptoms, or none at all.

Advanced age, being a man, and pre-existing medical problems can all increase the odds of a serious outcome.

But genetic factors can also play a role, as the new findings makes clear.

"It is striking that the genetic heritage from Neanderthals has such tragic consequences during the current pandemic," said co-author Svante Paabo, director of the department of genetics at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology.

Recent research by the Covid-19 Host Genetics Initiative revealed that a genetic variant in a particular region of chromosome 3 -- one of 23 chromosomes in the human genome -- is associated with more severe forms of the disease.

That same region was known to harbour genetic code of Neanderthal origins, so Paabo and co-author Hugo Zeberg, also from Max Planck, decided to look for a link with Covid-19.

Unevenly distributed

They found that a Neanderthal individual from southern Europe carried an almost identical genetic segment, which spans some 50,000 so-called base pairs, the primary building blocks of DNA.

Tellingly, two Neanderthals found in southern Siberia, along with a specimen from another early human species that also wandered Eurasia, the Denisovans, did not carry the telltale snippet.

Modern humans and Neanderthals could have inherited the gene fragment from a common ancestor some half-million years ago, but it is far more likely to have entered the homo sapiens gene pool through more recent interbreeding, the researchers concluded.

The potentially dangerous string of Neanderthal DNA is not evenly distributed today across the globe, the study showed.

Some 16 percent of Europeans carry it, and about half the population across South Asia, with the highest proportion -- 63 percent -- found in Bangladesh.

This could help explain why individuals of Bangladeshi descent living in Britain are twice as likely to die from Covid-19 as the general population, the authors speculate.

In East Asia and Africa the gene variant is virtually absent.

About two percent of DNA in non-Africans across the globe originate with Neanderthals, earlier studies have shown.

Denisovan remnants are also widespread but more sporadic, comprising less than one percent of the DNA among Asians and Native Americans, and about five percent of aboriginal Australians and the people of Papua New Guinea.
Aspo Plc

Stock Exchange Release

October 1, 2020 at 2 p.m.

Aspo Group subsidiary Telko strengthens its position in the Nordic lubricants market by acquiring Swedish ILS Nordic AB

Telko Ltd, part of the Aspo Group, has acquired Swedish ILS Nordic AB and its subsidiary Autolubes Nordic AB. ILS Nordic is a strategic lubricants distribution partner of BP Castrol in Sweden and Norway. Telko has been a distributor of Castrol products in Finland since 1958.

ILS Nordic serves the Swedish industry, and Autolubes Nordic distributes automotive oils in Sweden and Norway.

The acquisition will increase Telko's net sales in 2021 by approximately EUR 10 million and will improve Telko's relative profitability. As a result of the acquisition, the Nordic countries' share of Telko's net sales will increase to approximately 40%.

The acquisition accelerates Telko's strategic change. Telko has consistently freed up working capital from low-margin and slow-moving businesses, and focused them on more profitable and more capital-efficient businesses, said Aki Ojanen, CEO of Aspo Group and Chairman of Telko's Board of Directors.

Over the past five years, Telko has been actively growing its lubricants business in the Nordic countries. The acquisition announced today brings strong synergies and is a significant step in the growth of Telkos business and emergence as a leading player in the Nordic lubricants market, said Mikko Pasanen, Managing Director of Telko.

The lubricant business will become Telko's third major business area alongside plastics and industrial chemicals. Telko has previously reported the lubricants business as part of the chemicals business, but in the future the figures for the automotive chemicals and lubricants business will be reported as their own entity.



ASPO Plc



Aki Ojanen

CEO



For further information, please contact:

Aki Ojanen, CEO of Aspo Group and Chairman of Telkos Board of Directors,

tel. +358 9 5211, +358 400 106 592, aki.ojanen@aspo.com



Mikko Pasanen, Managing Director of Telko Ltd,

tel. +358 40 743 6665, mikko.pasanen@telko.com



DISTRIBUTION:

Nasdaq Helsinki

Key media

www.aspo.com



Aspo is a conglomerate that owns and develops business operations in the Northern Europe and growth markets focusing on demanding B-to-B customers. Our strong company brands - ESL Shipping, Leipurin, Telko and Kauko - aim to be the market leaders in their sectors. They are responsible for their own operations, customer relationships, and the development of these. Together they generate Aspo's goodwill. Aspo's Group structure and business operations are continually developed without any predefined schedules.




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Thrissur-based Dhanlaxmi Bank on October 1 said the Reserve Bank of India has approved an interim arrangement for the formation of a Committee of Directors to oversee its operations till a new CEO comes.

The Board had requested the constitution of the committee after the MD and CEOs appointment was rejected by the shareholders at the annual general meeting on September 30.

The Committee of Directors will be constituted with G Subramonia Iyer as Chairman and G Rajagopalan Nair and PK Vijayakumar as Members, the bank said in a note to stock exchanges.

Moneycontrol first reported on Thursday morning that Dhanlaxmi Board has recommended a three-member committee of directors to the RBI.

As advised by RBI, the interim arrangement will not continue beyond four months within which the Bank will complete the process of identification and appointment of a new MD& CEO, the bank said.

At the AGM, over 90 percent of the votes were polled against CEO Sunil Gurbaxanis appointment. According to persons familiar with the development, major shareholders of the bank were unhappy with Gurbaxanis favourable approach to investors from the north Indian lobby. These shareholders, hence, wanted to oust Gurbaxani from the bank and bring in a more "fit and proper" candidate.

Gurbaxani assumed office as CEO in February 2020. A veteran banker, he has 35 years of experience with the State Bank of Bikaner & Jaipur (now State Bank of India), and Axis Bank.

Last week, after similar events at Lakshmi Vilas Bank, the RBI had appointed a three-member committee of directors to take care of daily operations. Shareholders had rejected appointments of seven directors including the CEO in LVB along with that of statutory auditors.

On Wednesday, after the AGM results came out, Gurbaxani told Moneycontrol in an exclusive chat that he will wait for the RBIs direction before submitting the resignation.

I have not resigned. I will wait for the RBIs direction on the matter, Gurbaxani said. Asked what the rules say in such a situation, Gurbaxani said that the Banking Regulation Act could supersede company law and the regulator can make a decision.

Looking at the matter or the governance issues that are impacting the bank for years together, the regulator may take a decision which it feels appropriate, Gurbaxani said, adding the RBI had not communicated anything to him on the matter so far.

Gurbaxani said the decision of the shareholders voting against him surprised him the most, adding that while he respects that decision, he would ultimately be driven by the central bank's decision.

There are reasons that I would not disclose at this point of time. At times you do pay the price for being absolutely honest, candid and not allowing any sign of misgovernance, Gurbaxani said.

On September 29, Moneycontrol first reported that a section of Dhanlaxmi Bank shareholders could vote against the CEO.

On Tuesday, the RBI appointed DK Kashyap, General Manager, Reserve Bank of India, Bengaluru Regional Office as Additional Director on the Board of the Bank for a period of two years. The RBI now has two members on Dhanlaxmi Banks Board.

Unions pitch for a better CEO candidate

In a second letter to the RBI this week, bank employees' union AIBEA asked the RBI to appoint a better candidate to head Dhanlaxmi Bank. We strongly suggest and fervently hope that while appointing a new Managing Director and CEO, the RBI would keep the entire background and context in view, said AIBEA General Secretary CH Venkatachalam in the letter. The new MD & CEO would be someone who is familiar with this Bank, its customers, its Depositors, its shareholders and its nine decades of existence, Venkatachalam said.
The Vatican has denied US Secretary of State an audience with The Holy See said the Pontiff does not receive politicians during an election period.

The move adds to a diplomatic row following comments by Pompeo about China and the Catholic Church, the BBC reported on Wednesday.

The Vatican accused Pompeo of trying to use that issue to attract voters in November's US presidential election.

In an article earlier this month, Pompeo said the Catholic Church was risking its "moral authority" by renewing an agreement with China regarding the appointment of bishops.

US President Donald Trump receives support from conservative religious movements, including conservative Catholic voters, some of whom think is too liberal.

Human rights groups say many Catholics in China are persecuted and driven underground for pledging allegiance to the Pope instead of an official Chinese Catholic association.

Despite this, in 2018 the Vatican made a deal with China to have some say over the appointment of Chinese bishops.

At the time said he hoped the deal "will allow the wounds of the past to be overcome" and bring about full Catholic unity in China.

The agreement is expected to be renewed next month in the face of opposition from some Catholics, including in the US.

In a speech on Wednesday in Rome, Pompeo called on the Vatican to defend religious freedom in China, saying "nowhere is religious freedom under assault more than in China."

The Vatican's two top diplomats, Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Foreign Minister Archbishop Paul Gallagher, said Pope Francis will not receive Pompeo.

The two politicians also described Pompeo's public criticism of the Pope as a surprise and Archbishop Gallagher commented that issues for discussion should be negotiated "privately"

Cardinal Parolin also said it is possible Pompeo's comments were designed to encourage Catholics to support Trump at the polls in November.

"Some have interpreted it this way - that the comments were above all for domestic political use. I don't have proof of this but certainly this is one way of looking at it," he suggested.

He added that the Vatican's deal with China is nothing to do with the US.

--IANS

pgh/

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
That brings to mind a place I would like to return to one day, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg, Manitoba. I always wonder if the very people who would most benefit from a museum like this one are exactly the ones who would never go. Its too bad. Sure, its uncomfortable, learning about mans inhumanity to man, as Robert Burns put it, but its also edifying, learning how willing people are, not to just fight for whats right but to try to heal the damage caused by what isnt.
I used to, literally, look out that window and sit there and see the lights on in the houses, Biden said in New Alexandria. Id wonder  do they have the same kinds of conversations at those tables like I did? he said, recounting family discussions about whether new tires or a new water heater would cost too much.
A curious man was given quite fright when he decided to investigate where a tiny bird had disappeared to.

The videographer, identified only as Jonny, was out on his BMX bike in Syracuse, New York, when he saw the bird fly straight into a pipe on the side of a building.

Intrigued, he went to take a closer look. His point-of-view footage captures him crouching down to peer inside the pipe.

Suddenly the bird launches itself towards his face, in a blur of beak and flapping wings.

Jonny was out on his BMX bike in Syracuse, New York, on September 26 when he noticed a tiny bird fly straight into a fire department water pipe on the side of a building

Johnny stumbles backwards in shock, hysterically laughing as he cannot quite believe what happened.

In the video, he is heard saying: 'Holy s**t, oh my god!'

The bird appears to have been nesting inside the fire department connection pipe, also known as the Siamese connection.

It is connected to the building's automatic fire sprinkler system and can be used by firefighters to connect hose lines during a blaze.

The fire department are then able to pump water into the sprinkler system at a high pressure to put out the fire.

The amusing footage, filmed on September 26, was shared on YouTube, where one viewer poked fun at Jonny, saying that 'he clearly knew something was in there'.

Speaking about the footage, Jonny said: 'I BMX a lot and on my travels today, I happened to see a bird fly right into the pipe on the side of a building and when I went to go investigate, it popped out and startled me.'

Jonny was given an unexpected fright when the bird flew out of its nesting place and launched itself at his face, startling video footage shows
For parents that both hold high paying professional careers, staying home to guide their children through the kind of remote or hybrid learning platforms that are presently provided by many public schools is not an option. For a growing number of these professional couples concerned about their own professional goals there is a new solution. A solution that will prevent their children from falling months behind when forced to struggle through home learning formats.

The new concept is called a learning pod.

At this point, learning pods are normally composed of three to 10 children from families with limited exposure to the virus and limited exposure to the essential workers that account for the majority of cases and hospitalizations particularly in urban areas.

Like-minded families of means are starting their own learning pods and hiring private teachers. The process begins by converting a guest house, pool house, or basement into a high tech classroom, complete with the latest in digital education hardware, iPads, and high speed internet. This concept is geared to work best when used to supplement an existing remote or online learning platform.

The costliest part of the learning pod is hiring a teacher. Tutor and teacher placement agencies are fielding more and more inquiries for certified and vetted teachers to serve as this vital part of the learning pod. Teachers, depending on experience and credentials are being paid a salary between $60,000 and $120,000, accounting for the hourly rate of approximately $60 to $100 per student.

By hiring a teacher to guide, clarify, and reinforce online learning concepts parents are assured that none of the students fall behind, thereby releasing parents from that burdensome responsibility. Parents are then allowed to continue their careers with piece of mind that the education of their children is in competent hands.

There are many clear advantages to learning pods, beginning with providing children with a set schedule. Educational experts agree this could be the best way to allow children to feel safe. Parents are also assured that their children are receiving structure, real-time instruction, and social interaction. Most importantly parents feel their children are relatively safe from coronavirus within this mini-school concept.

As parents become more familiar with the learning pod, the comment, Why didnt we think of this earlier? Is heard most often. On the surface, this idea of learning pods could very well be a better option than costly private schools that can amount to $30,000 to $50,000 per year.

The interesting question is, could the concept of a learning pod with a private teacher continue after the pandemic is no longer a concern. Many are beginning to feel the answer is yes. As the politics of school choice broaden so does the advantages of private learning pods, especially in the primary grades, and this is not good news for public or private schools.

Here in Pennsylvania there are additional factors that would make learning pods a more practical option. At the present time here in Pennsylvania, school taxes paid to local school districts can be re-routed to online cyber schools at no additional cost if a parent chooses to withdraw their child from their local public school. The learning pod would then provide all the advantages of in-person instruction, social interaction, structure, and safety from any form of school related safety threat.

The one downside to private learning pods was pointed out in a recent opinion piece in the New York Times written by Clara Totenberg Green. She states in her op-ed that learning pods will contribute to racial segregation. She believes that children whose parents have the means to participate in learning pods will return to school academically ahead of low-income children.

Time will tell what changes originally generated by the pandemic will remain after the coronavirus is no longer a threat, but it is very possible that learning pods will remain, to the detriment of both public and private schools.

Robert Griffiths is a retired educator, an educational consultant and a member of the Cornwall Lebanon (Pa.) School Board.
The quasar SDSS J1030+0524 clocked in with a redshift of 6.31, meaning that light waves from it  indeed, the size of the whole universe  have been stretched by a factor of 7.31 since the time of the quasar. That corresponds to when the universe was 900 million years old, according to conventional cosmological calculations. That means it took 12.9 billion years for the light from that quasar to reach Earth, making it one of the most distant quasars ever discovered.

In images from the Hubble and other telescopes, the quasar was surrounded by myriad faint objects. The astronomers proceeded to track them down and make spectroscopic measurements.

These objects are actually star-forming galaxies, said Roberto Gilli, another team member. The objects were selected for further study based partly on their very red colors and other spectral characteristics, he said. Six had similar redshifts  between 6.129 and 6.355  over a volume in space of about 27 billion cubic light-years.

Within that volume, the authors determined, were about a trillion solar masses of material, about as much material as is contained in a giant cluster of galaxies today, making that region twice as dense as regular space.

This is the first spectroscopic identification of a galaxy overdensity around a supermassive black hole in the first billion years of the universe, the astronomers wrote in their paper. The finding, they added, lent support to the idea that the most distant and massive black holes formed and grew within massive halos of dark matter in large-scale structures, and that the absence of earlier detections of such systems is likely due to observational limitations.

But those limitations will not last forever, Dr. Dressler noted. One of the primary goals for the next generation of super telescopes, like the Giant Magellan Telescope and the European Extremely Large Telescope, both now being built in Chile, and the Thirty Meter Telescope proposed for Hawaiis Mauna Kea, is to map out this web with greater fidelity.

The added light-gathering power of the next generation will allow us to use faint young galaxies to serve as the back lights illuminating the faint filaments of atomic matter, Dr. Dressler said. Until now, what is known about the web has come from using quasars as back lights. But faint galaxies are 10 to 100 times more plentiful on the sky, Dr. Dressler said, so you can start making a good picture of the web.
THE HAGUE, Netherlands - A group of Dutch refugee activists is planning to fly an empty plane to the Greek island of Lesbos in a bid to pick up nearly 200 migrants who lost their homes when their camp burned down last month.

But one of organizers of the crowdfunded initiative acknowledged Thursday that the chance is all but non-existent that Dutch authorities will give them clearance to fly any migrants into the Netherlands.

We are trying to increase the pressure while realizing that it would be a bizarre miracle if it happens, said Rikko Voorberg of the group Lets Bring Them Here.

The group opened a crowdfunding action that quickly raised enough money to charter a passenger aircraft with nearly 200 seats reserved for migrants. It is scheduled to take off for Lesbos on Monday morning.

The action is a way of raising awareness of the plight of migrants stuck on Lesbos and elsewhere with limited prospects for relocation to other European countries.

More than 26,000 refugees and migrants awaiting processing of their asylum bids live in camps on Greek islands, where they arrived after crossing from the nearby Turkish coast in smuggling boats. More than half are on Lesbos.

In an open letter published on the groups website in English, Farsi and Arabic, organizers warn that they are dependent on gaining official permission to airlift migrants off the island.

We have to try, even if it fails, the letter says.

On Wednesday, 139 vulnerable asylum-seekers who had been living in overcrowded Greek island camps were taken on an officially sanctioned flight to Germany, as part of efforts to ease overcrowding and move refugees to other European countries.

Alternate Migration Minister Giorgos Koumoutsakos said it was the first resettlement flight after the notoriously overcrowded Moria camp on Lesbos, Greeces largest, burned down. Most of the Moria residents have since been resettled in a new camp on Lesbos, with hundreds moved to the mainland.

Mondays attempted airlift is not the first time Voorberg and his supporters have attempted to relocate migrants. Late in 2018, the group drove a city bus and 35 cars to Athens in an attempt to bring people back to the Netherlands. That convoy returned empty-handed.

The Dutch government did not immediately comment on the planned flight. In the aftermath of the fire that tore through Moria, the government offered to take 100 people from the camp  unaccompanied minors and families with young children.

The Dutch minister responsible for migration and asylum, Ankie Broekers-Knol, on Thursday took a virtual tour around a shelter for 16 unaccompanied girls and young mothers on the Greek mainland funded by Greece and the Netherlands. The new shelter is the first of three being established by the two countries to improve accommodation for unaccompanied young asylum seekers.
As per the latest government guidelines, all international arriving passengers can now avail on-arrival covid-19 testing facility at the Delhi Airport. As per earlier guidelines, only the passengers with further domestic connection were allowed to have RT-PCR test done on the spot. Rest of the passengers were required to produce a Covid-19 negative report done 96-hours prior to boarding.

On-arrival testing facility will help passengers seeking exemption from institutional quarantine if tested negative. Delhi Airport became the first airport in India to set up a COVID-19 testing facility at the International Airport Terminal 3 for the international arriving passengers.

The facility was set up opposite the Terminal 3 at the multi-level car parking area for the incoming passengers who have to take connecting domestic flights. This facility will now be used for arriving passengers.

Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL), the company that runs Delhi airport, collaborated with Genestrings Diagnostic Centre, a Delhi-based laboratory, which is currently associated with Delhi government to test COVID-19 samples to conduct the tests.

All international arriving passengers can now avail COVID RT-PCR testing facility at Delhi Airport, as per the latest government guidelines. pic.twitter.com/pG6BtXrmBa Delhi Airport (@DelhiAirport) September 30, 2020

A passenger can get the test done at the airport itself for a fee of Rs 5,000. The fees include waiting room charges as the results can take upto 6 hours to arrive.

The DIALs press release said, Results of samples collected at the laboratory will be declared within 4-6 hours to the incoming passengers. Until the results are confirmed, passengers will be isolated at the waiting lounge or may opt to stay in a hotel."

Constructed in 3,500 square meter area at multi-level car parking (MLCP) of Terminal 3, this is the first such arrangement among Indian airports," it noted. An international passenger who does not have a COVID-negative result certificate from a test done not more than 96 hours prior to the journey, and does not opt for an on-arrival testing facility at the entry airport, will have to compulsorily undergo seven-day institutional quarantine followed by seven-day home quarantine.

On August 2, the Union Health Ministry had said if an international passenger has a negative result from an RT-PCR test done 96 hours prior to the journey, he or she will not need to undergo institutional quarantine in India.

With Inputs from PTI.
As a result of widespread wildfires in Luhansk region, five people died, 120 people evacuated, the press service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine said on Thursday morning.

"For 24 hours, firefighters, rescuers, police officers, military personnel have been extinguishing wildfires and evacuating people. As a result of the wildfires, five people have died. According to operational data, 120 people have been evacuated," the Ministry of Internal Affairs said on its Facebook page.

Earlier it was reported about the deaths of four and ten people injured as a result of large wildfires in Luhansk region.

According to the information, in total 1,229 people and 204equipment were involved in extinguishing fires. "Aviation has been involved in extinguishing wildfires, in agreement with the headquarters of the Joint Force Operation and the Joint Center for Control and Coordination," the Interior Ministry said.

The ministry said that an operational government group headed by Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Serhiy Yarovy flew to the site of forest wildfires in Luhansk region for the actions of all forces.

"The group also included Chairman of the State Emergency Service Mykola Chechotkin, Commander of the National Guard Mykola Balan, Chairman of the State Forest Resources Agency of Ukraine Vasyl Kuziovych, and First Deputy Minister for Reintegration of the Temporarily Occupied Territories of Ukraine Rostyslav Zamlynsky," the ministry said.
A Centre Dufferin District High School (CDDHS) student has taken the initiative locally in the climate crisis discussion, joining in the global climate strike by producing a chalk mural drawing.

I wanted to raise up the voice of CDDHS students and let them join the global climate strike that was happening on Friday, all over the world, said Annie Cameron.

Annie Cameron is a Grade 12 student at CDDHS and was the initiator behind the drawing of the mural. She along with three other students, created the mural as part of the Fridays for Future (FFF) movement, started by Swedish environmental activist Greta Thunberg in 2018. The mural was part of a global climate strike that took place on Sept. 25, with 3,374 strikes taking place in 134 countries.

This was a way that we can show hope, show that we can help and communicate that there are people in Shelburne, students in Shelburne that believe that this is our future were fighting for  we need a system change, not climate change, said Cameron.

The mural, which was drawn on the sidewalks outside of CDDHS, addressed the Fridays for Future mantra of system change not climate change.

The Fridays for Future organization is asking large companies and governments to re-examine and follow through, said Cameron. Theyre asking for a system change of large corporations all the way down to the single person to become more environmentally conscientious and do things that will stop the ever growing climate change crisis.

MAPA, or Most Affected People and Areas was another aspect of the mural that Cameron wanted to highlight awareness to in the climate strike.

These are the people that are already fighting for their future due to climate change, said Cameron. Natural disasters are happening in their area or somethings affecting them and they dont have the voice.

Usually these MAPA or most affected people and areas are the ones that have produced or contributed the lead to climate change and they are being affected most.

The next global strike of Friday for Future will happen on October 2, for more information go to www.fridaysforfuture.org.
Billingslea was speaking as the leader of U.S. delegation visiting Vietnam, Japan and South Korea for discussions on threats posed by nuclear weapons in the region.

Vietnam was picked as a destination for the trip given its status as the ASEAN chair this year, the presence of several high-level and experienced diplomats on arms control, and its numerous achievements in arms control, as also for the commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the U.S.-Vietnam relations this year, he said at an online press conference Thursday.

The U.S. delegation, which arrived in Vietnam Wednesday night, includes Lieutenant General Thomas A. Bussiere, Deputy Commander of the U.S. Strategic Command. Billingslea said the presence of Bussiere, a high-ranking U.S general, as part of the delegation showcased the U.S.s seriousness on advancing its military and strategic cooperation with Vietnam.

He also had high praise and appreciation for Vietnams efforts in tackling and controlling the Covid-19 pandemic.

Vietnams foreign ministry spokeswoman Le Thi Thu Hang said Billingsleas visit to Hanoi aimed to discuss bilateral relations as well as regional and global issues. She noted that the comprehensive partnership between Vietnam and the U.S. has seen steady progress of late.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday extended deepest condolences on the passing away of Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the late Amir of Kuwait, and signed a condolence book at the embassy of the country.Calling him a visionary leader and a true friend of India, Jaishankar said the immense contributions of the Sheikh in enhancing bilateral relations of the two nations will always be cherished.

Signed the condolence book at the Embassy of Kuwait, extending deepest condolences on the passing away of HH Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, late Amir of the State of Kuwait. pic.twitter.com/KqQYole014  Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) October 1, 2020

A visionary leader and a true friend of India, the immense contributions of His Highness in enhancing our bilateral relations will always be cherished.  Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) October 1, 2020

(IMAGE CREDITS:PTI)

(This story has not been edited by www.republicworld.com and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
In an interview Sunday with the Journal du dimanche (JDD), Patrick Brouet, the president of the Ordre des Medecins (Medical Association) attacked official inaction on the resurgence of COVID-19 in France. This politically criminal inaction, decided by President Macron, is preparing a new spike in deaths, worse than in spring, that would overflow the health care system.

According to Brouet, if nothing changes, in three to four months, France will have to confront several long autumn and winter months of a generalised epidemic over the whole country, without rear bases of support capable of providing human reinforcements, leaving only a health system incapable of responding to pressing demands.

Over the past week, admissions to intensive care have risen by 40 percent, hospital admissions by 34 percent and deaths by 25 percent, with a total of 332 hospital and care home deaths. The JDD quotes the calculations of seven scientists, all of which coincide: Without strong measures to fight the pandemic, the number of patients going into intensive care each day in a months time will be about 650, equivalent to what we experienced at the height of the first wave, and will go over 1,200 in mid-November.

These calculations reinforce those announced by sources in London, indicating an alarming acceleration of the pandemic. According to the UK Office of National Statistics, the number of cases is doubling every week, which will mean 50,000 cases per day by mid-October and therefore hundreds of deaths each day two weeks later. At the time of the spike in cases during the spring, it only took a week for the number of daily deaths in Britain to go from 200 to 1,000.

The resurgence in France would be harder to handle than the first, which was concentrated in the Grand-Est, Ile-de-France and Hauts de France regions, because the virus is now evenly spread across France. Moreover, Brouet explained, in the autumn it will be necessary to confront Covid while looking after all the elderly sick suffering from flu, and children affected by gastroenteritis.

Only a policy of allowing the entire population to shelter at home except for essential workers can prevent a devastating generalised resurgence of COVID-19. To prevent an economic collapse and mass impoverishment, such a policy would necessarily include financial support for workers and small businesses during the lock-down.

According to an Ifop poll this weekend, 61 percent of French people would support a generalised policy of everyone working from home except for essential workers. Also, 72 percent support a 15-day lockdown, and 83 percent accept curtailing their movements. In fact it is not opposition by French people, as is so often claimed by the press and TV media, which prevents the adoption of a scientific strategy to fight the virus.

It is the demands of the financial markets and the capitalist aristocracy that workers must at all costs return to work, and therefore children to school, in order to generate the necessary profits for the banks. This policy is defended by the state apparatus in the person of the banker-president, Emmanuel Macron.

Everything must be done to avoid total lockdown, Macron reportedly declared during the defence council meeting last Wednesday, according to JDD. He demanded details on the hospitals capacity to absorb the coming wave, according to one participant at the meeting.

Scientific models show the return to work and reopening of schools is leading to a spike in deaths worse than that in April. In the spring, an official German report dated March 18 warned of the danger that more than a million people would die in 2020, just in Germany. According to JDD, at the defence council meeting of March 12, a forecast of hundreds of thousands of deaths was raised. A lockdown was then imposed. However, a big difference is now evident: this scenario today has been completely ruled out, writes the JDD .

In short, hundreds of thousands of French people could die along with millions of Europeans as a result of Macrons determination to maintain the irrational, anti-scientific and unpopular policy dictated by the banks in defence of the privileges of the financial aristocracy.

The political parties and trade unions which negotiate the implementation of the European relaunch plan with Macron are accomplices to this murderous policy. It demonstrates their contempt for human lives, especially those of more impoverished layers of the working class that have been the most affected by the virus, and of the medical staff.

Brouet criticized the illusions promoted by Macron, such as the health system being able to withstand any new rise in COVID-19 cases: health professionals, who accomplished a miracle last spring, will not be able once again to compensate for structural deficiencies. Many are exhausted, traumatized. No one confronted with death on a daily basis emerges unscathed. Like myself, many regret that an accounting of the first period has not been undertaken

Brouet demanded that the state give more control to doctors and ensure the coordination between general practitioners, hospitals and regional health authorities: The hospital is in the front line, but the majority of people sick from Covid will not go to hospital! It is not the hospital that needs protection but the patients! He warned that without this reorganization, there will be the same bottleneck as in the spring for calls to 15 [emergency telephone line], an unequal distribution of the pressure on doctors waiting rooms, and doctors being deprived of access to their patients in certain care homes.

Brouet stressed that Macrons policy will cut off a large majority of patients from access to treatment. We sense an adoption in the population and among certain intellectuals of the idea that the lives of the majority of society do not merit being wasted in order to protect the elderly and the more vulnerable.  I wish to solemnly warn against an unacceptable philosophical breakdown.

He continued, If nothing is done to control the epidemic, intensive care units will be saturated and it will be necessary to pick and choose patients arriving at their doors. Emergency doctors will have the task of choosing who gets access to treatment. However, a doctor must never accept an injunction from society that forces a doctor to refuse treating a patient.

This comment exposes the essential fascistic character of the policy pursued by Macron in France and by the international financial aristocracy. In order to preserve their profits, they attempt to again impose the barbaric situation where emergency doctors are called upon to decide whether patients live or die, and where elderly patients suffering from COVID-19 would be automatically denied life-saving treatment. To prevent such a situation, it is urgent to remove the control of the economy from the reactionary capitalist elites.

This underscores the significance of the call by the Parti de legalite socialiste (Socialist Equality Party) addressed to workers to organize independently of the trade unions and prepare a general strike movement against the return to work in France and internationally, with the aim of bringing down the capitalist governments and transferring political power to the working class.
Vatican City, Oct 1 : The Vatican has denied US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo an audience with Pope Francis. The Holy See said the Pontiff does not receive politicians during an election period.

The move adds to a diplomatic row following comments by Pompeo about China and the Catholic Church, the BBC reported on Wednesday.

The Vatican accused Pompeo of trying to use that issue to attract voters in November's US presidential election.

In an article earlier this month, Pompeo said the Catholic Church was risking its "moral authority" by renewing an agreement with China regarding the appointment of bishops.

US President Donald Trump receives support from conservative religious movements, including conservative Catholic voters, some of whom think Pope Francis is too liberal.

Human rights groups say many Catholics in China are persecuted and driven underground for pledging allegiance to the Pope instead of an official Chinese Catholic association.

Despite this, in 2018 the Vatican made a deal with China to have some say over the appointment of Chinese bishops.

At the time Pope Francis said he hoped the deal "will allow the wounds of the past to be overcome" and bring about full Catholic unity in China.

The agreement is expected to be renewed next month in the face of opposition from some Catholics, including in the US.

In a speech on Wednesday in Rome, Pompeo called on the Vatican to defend religious freedom in China, saying "nowhere is religious freedom under assault more than in China." The Vatican's two top diplomats, Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Foreign Minister Archbishop Paul Gallagher, said Pope Francis will not receive Pompeo.

The two politicians also described Pompeo's public criticism of the Pope as a surprise and Archbishop Gallagher commented that issues for discussion should be negotiated "privately" Cardinal Parolin also said it is possible Pompeo's comments were designed to encourage Catholics to support Trump at the polls in November.

"Some have interpreted it this way - that the comments were above all for domestic political use. I don't have proof of this but certainly this is one way of looking at it," he suggested.

He added that the Vatican's deal with China is nothing to do with the US.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
On Thursday, Minister of National Defence Nicolae Ciuca sent a message to the cadets of the military faculties and underlined the high academic level, but also the challenges of the pandemic, according to Agerpres.

"A new academic year begins today under the special conditions imposed by the pandemic period we are in, with measures to protect against disease, but with ambitious educational goals. The challenges are very great and it will not be easy to maintain a high academic level in military higher education institutions, imposed both by the training of graduates and by elite professors who have confirmed new standards for Romanian university education," Ciuca transmitted on Facebook.He also mentioned the members of the cadets' families and addressed the professors.The minister stated that the Ministry of National Defence had taken "all possible organizational measures to ensure the necessary equipment and protective materials". "We will closely monitor that all the established measures are observed," Ciuca said.
By ANI

MUMBAI: A team from Versova police station on Thursday took actor Payal Ghosh, who has filed a sexual assault case against filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, to a government hospital in Mumbai's Andheri for a medical test in the matter.

Actor-director Anurag Kashyap has reached the Versova police station in Mumbai in connection with the sexual assault allegations raised by actor Payal Ghosh against him.

The Mumbai Police had on Wednesday issued a summon to Anurag Kashyap to appear before them on October 1 in connection to the case.

On September 20, 'Patel Ki Punjabi Shaadi' actor Ghosh accused Kashyap of sexual harassment.

Speaking to ANI, she said, "Five years ago I met Anurag Kashyap regarding work. He called me to his house. When I went there, he took me to a separate room and tried to sexually assault me. He forced himself on me."

"I request the authorities to kindly take action and let the country see the demon behind this creative guy. I am aware that it can harm me and my security is at risk. I am seeking action against him," said Ghosh.

Post the allegations, Kashyap responded on Twitter in which he denied the allegations, claiming that they were 'baseless'. "I neither behave like this nor do I ever tolerate this at any price," he had said.
Two key flagship rural schemes of the union government are far behind their targets, raising concerns of slow rate of completion of critical infrastructure in Indian villages.

According to the union rural development ministrys internal assessment, the village adoption scheme by MPs (SAGY) and the rural housing scheme (PMAY) have both have seen tepid start in their current phases.

SAGY, in which MPs select villages in their constituencies for development, has seen only around 400 villages being identified by Parliamentarians for the current phase that will run till 2024. The internal note says this was far below the targeted identification .

Also Read: A review of economy in 1st half of FY 2020-21

In the rural housing programme, the Centre is worried about the low rate of sanction of houses and an even lower rate of disbursement of funds. The rural ministry has stated, Out of the total target of 12.1 million (houses) allocated to the States/UTs in Phase-II, only 64 % houses have been sanctioned and 54 % beneficiaries have received the first instalment.

Many States had not issued targets to districts even though clear directions were issued by MoRD (ministry of rural development) to speed up issuance of sanctions, the report added.

While SAGY helps in targeted development of individual villages the rural housing programme helps creating permanent houses for homeless poor in Indian villages.

Also Read: Unused rural funds hint migrants may be back at work in cities

The report also said that in states including Assam, Bihar, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Nagaland, Mizoram, Tamil Nadu, Jammu & Kashmir and Meghalaya the performance in Phase-II was below National Average of 39% completion of houses against the target even as there is no shortage of funds.

In a recent review meeting on key flagship schemes, special measures were suggested to speed things up.

The states will be asked to encourage remaining MPs to adopt villages, organize orientation programmes for lawmakers, and keep SAGY as a regular agenda item in all reviews.

For the rural housing scheme, States/ UTs have been requested to expedite the release of the first instalment to all the sanctioned houses.

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A woman who slashed and stabbed her former girlfriend 58 times as she lay in agony on the ground, unable to move after falling from a fifth-floor balcony, will serve at least 19 years in prison for the callous murder.

Chinese national Zixi 'Jessy' Wang, 30, was sentenced to a maximum 25 years and six months in the NSW Supreme Court on Thursday for the killing of 23-year-old Shuyu Zhou, which Justice Robert Beech-Jones called a "deeply heinous act".

Zixi Wang escorted from King Street Courts to begin a minimum 19 year jail term. Credit:Rhett Wyman

The judge said Wang displayed "a pathological callousness" on the night of June 17, 2019, when Ms Zhou came to pick up belongings from her Zetland apartment and fell from the balcony after a physical confrontation, with Ms Wang refusing to let her leave.

Confronting CCTV footage shown to the court during an earlier sentencing hearing showed that Wang "disdainfully inspected Ms Zhou" after her fall, before "calmly" going back to her apartment, taking a knife and returning to "eliminate any chance of her suviving", Justice Beech-Jones said.
Hows the business going? Its fantastic. Overwhelming how much support weve received and how much interest there is. Im humbled by it. ... One day, a friend, Lisa Miroballi, asked what she needed to buy to make a charcuterie board. I said Id make it. ... She said, Only if you start an Instagram page. I said I was too shy to do that. ... Then I said, Fine, Ill start an Instagram page. What should we call it? I came up with LoveBoards. People started messaging me.
October 1 is the day US airlines that accepted their portion of the $25-billion bailout under the CARES Act can start involuntary layoffs of their employees. Theyve been shedding large numbers of employees since March but through voluntary buyouts, early retirements, and other programs that induced employees to temporarily or permanently leave. Now the airlines are engaged in a desperate lobbying effort to get legislation signed into law that would provide the next $25-billion bailout package. Threats have been flying, so to speak, to motivate Congress to get this done.

American Airlines CEO Doug Parker told CBS News on Sunday that if there isnt a new bailout program, there are going to be 100,000 aviation professionals who are out of work, who wouldnt be otherwise. This would include the 18,000 employees American Airlines has threatened to lay off.

So airlines have been lobbying hard. You know, we have everyone putting us in every bill they have, Parker said. We just need the bills to be laws. We need laws not bills.

American Airlines was also the airline that blew, incinerated, wasted, and trashed more than any other airline on share buybacks. Buybacks ceased in the second quarter, but from 2013 through Q1 2020, American Airlines incinerated $13.1 billion in cash on share buybacks. That cash would now come in very handy. 2013 was also the year Mr. Parker became CEO of American Airlines.

Delta blew, wasted, and incinerated $11.7 billion in cash on share buybacks over the period; Southwest Airlines, $10.9 billion (starting in 2012); and United $8.9 billion. In total, the big four airlines blew, wasted, and incinerated $44.6 billion in cash on share buybacks from 2012 through Q1 2020, and now the airlines want an additional $25 billion bailout, for a total of $50 billion, much of it in forms of grants, from taxpayers (data via YCharts):

OK, the demand recovery has been the crappiest ever.

In terms of the numbers of passengers entering airports in the US, over six months into the Pandemic, the business is still down nearly 70% from last year, according to TSA airport screenings. The interesting thing is how the recovery is not happening, and how the strong seasonal patterns have disappeared.

Normally, the passenger count drops sharply in the weeks before Labor Day from the summer peak in June, July, and early August. But after Labor Day, business travel picks up, and older folks with kids out of school start traveling, and the passenger count rises sharply in September. But none of that is happening this year.

The chart below shows TSA checkpoint screenings per day, as a seven-day moving average through September 27, last year (black) versus this year (red):

The very lucrative business segment has gotten crushed as companies still avoid sending their people anywhere unless they absolutely have to; conferences and large meetings are still mostly shut down; and job applicants are interviewed remotely. And among vacation travelers, older people with no kids in school, who would normally take advantage of the beautiful and less crowded fall months, are avoiding getting on planes for health reasons.

Over the past seven days, from September 21 through September 27, the passenger count was down each day in a range of -64.4% to -73.0% compared to the same weekday last year, putting the seven-day moving average at -68.4% as of September 27. Part of the year-over-year bump around Labor Day was due to the calendar shift with Labor Day falling on September 7 this year, compared to September 2 last year:

In terms of international travel, flight restrictions and quarantine requirements in the US and other countries make this a tough situation for willing American travelers. And for US airlines, that crucial and lucrative segment is unlikely to bounce back quickly, given the once-again rising infection rates in the US and many other countries.

So what to do with these airlines?

The airline industry invented a new metric during the Pandemic: daily cash burn. The purpose is to give investors a feel for the progress in implementing the airlines survival strategies. Every airline now cites this metric. The idea is to make this number as small as possible by cutting capacity, shedding employees, and reducing costs wherever possible.

Investors whove been coddled over the years through share-buybacks, have helped fund the airlines daily cash burn by buying the newly issued bonds and shares. They have done so because they counted on support from taxpayers and the Fed.

Investors should continue to step up to the plate and fund that daily cash burn. But taxpayers  theyre already sitting on billions of dollars in tickets they cant get refunds for though they can use the credits or whatever in the future  shouldnt be shanghaied into funding airlines. Thats Wall Streets job.

And if Wall Street refuses to step up to the plate and one or the other airline runs out of funds to fuel its daily cash burn, well then, that debt needs to be restructured at the expense of investors, and that can be done in bankruptcy court, as Delta, American, and United have already proven and demonstrated in the past.

In the Atlanta metro, 53,000 FHA mortgages are delinquent. In the Houston metro, 47,000. Just FHA, not including other delinquent mortgages. By metro. Read... Subprime, No Problem? FHA Mortgage Delinquencies Hit Record 17.4%, as Fed Triggers Mad Land-Rush in Split Housing Market

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A British Union flag, also known as a Union Jack, right, flies with other European Union (EU) member state flags outside the European Parliament in Brussels, Belgium, on Thursday, Jan. 30, 2020.

LONDON  European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Thursday it has formally notified the U.K. over its contentious plan to override the Brexit divorce deal, marking the first step in legal proceedings.

The notification came after U.K. lawmakers approved Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Internal Market Bill earlier this week, despite some ministers admitting the legislation could lead to the country breaching international law.

The U.K. has said the proposed legislation, which now requires the approval of the House of Lords, will protect the integrity of the U.K. The bill would allow ministers to unilaterally amend elements of the country's withdrawal agreement with the EU.

It has amplified divisions between the U.K. and Europe, threatening to scupper trade talks during the post-Brexit transition period.

"If adopted as is, it will be in full contradiction to the protocol of Ireland-Northern Ireland," von der Leyen said in a televised statement.

The head of the EU's executive arm said it had given Britain until the end of September to remove "problematic parts" of the Internal Market Bill, but the deadline has now lapsed and the provisions remained.

"Therefore, this morning the Commission has decided to send a letter of formal notice to the U.K. government. This is the first step in an infringement procedure."

The U.K. government will have a month to reply with its "observations," von der Leyen said. "Besides this, the Commission will continue to work hard towards a full and timely implementation of the withdrawal agreement. We stand by our commitments."

The EU has previously said the Internal Market Bill constituted an "extremely serious violation" of the withdrawal agreement. It has also warned it would "not be shy" in using all available legal means if the U.K. failed to amend the bill in its current form.
Strategy and Planning Officer, Rome, Italy

Organization: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)

Country: Italy

City: Rome, Italy

Office: FAO Rome

Closing date: Sunday, 11 October 2020

2002136

Strategy And Planning Officer

Job Posting: 21/Sep/2020

Closure Date: 11/Oct/2020, 9:59:00 PM

Organizational Unit : OSP

Job Type: Staff position

Type of Requisition : Professional

Grade Level : P-3

Primary Location: Italy-Rome

Duration : Fixed term: 1 year with possibility of extension

Post Number : 2008083

CCOG Code : 1A02

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Please note that Closure Date and Time displayed above are based on date and time settings of your personal device

The length of appointment for internal FAO candidates will be established in accordance with applicable policies pertaining to the extension of appointments.

FAO is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality, background and culture

Qualified female applicants, qualified nationals of non-and under-represented member countries and person with disabilities are encouraged to apply for this position

FAO does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment, and discrimination. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks.

All applications will be treated with the strictest confidentiality

The incumbent may be re-assigned to different activities and/or duty stations depending on the evolving needs of the Organization.

Organizational Setting

The Office of Strategy, Planning and Resources Management (OSP) advises the Director-General on strategic and policy matters related to the Organizations objectives, results-based programmes, and budgets for all sources of funds; leads the development of policies and procedures on results-based management, FAO country programming frameworks, internal control and Risk management; coordinates the preparation of the Organizations strategic, programme and budget plans; and manages allocation of resources, and monitors and reports on corporate programme and budget implementation to help ensure effective and efficient achievement of results.

Reporting Lines

The Strategy and Planning Officer reports to the Deputy Director, OSP under the overall guidance of the Director, OSP

Technical Focus

Advisory and internal oversight, meetings programming and management, production of the Organizations strategic, programme and budget documents.

Key Results

Research, technical analysis, and related services and systems to support the planning, implementation and monitoring of programmes and projects.

Key Functions

Analyzes, adapts and extends policies and procedures to achieve full inter-departmental and inter-agency collaboration in strategic planning, results-based programming and budgeting, monitoring and reporting;

Executes analytical tasks associated with the preparation, review and analysis of the Organizations Strategic Framework, Medium Term Plan, Programme of Work and Budget, and Programme Implementation Report;

Carries out analytical tasks associated with resources management and corporate budgetary performance;

Contributes to the design and operation of procedures and systems for work planning and the issuance of allotments;

Performs analytical tasks associated with the design and operation of the corporate results-based monitoring and reporting system;

Performs other duties as required.

Specific Functions

Contributes to management and coordination of the Oversight Advisory Committee reporting to the Finance Committee and the Director-General ensuring compliance with its Terms of Reference;

Coordinates preparations and executes analytical tasks in support of the advisory and internal oversight bodies and governing bodies committees under OSP responsibility;

Coordinates preparations and executes analytical tasks in support of FAOs external relationships such as the Joint Inspection Unit and other UN organizations, analyses reports and recommends follow-up action;

Drafts selected documents for submission to the Finance Committee and Council;

Carries out complex research and analytical tasks related to guidance emanated by the governing bodies for inclusion in statutory and/or management reports, statements, and/or progress reports associated with corporate strategic, programme and budget matters;

Coordinates and ensures production of the Organizations strategic, programme and budget documents in camera-ready for submission by OSP to the governing bodies; ensures coherence with internal policies and guidance from governing bodies, coordinates their translation and dispatch;

Analyses, adapts and extends policies and procedures to achieve full inter-departmental and inter-agency collaboration on governing bodies matters;

Contributes to management and coordination of the updating of OSP Intranet and web pages;

Plans, organizes, supervises and evaluates the work of staff assigned to supporting these functions;

Performs other related duties as required.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements

Advanced university degree in business or public administration, international development, finance, economics, agriculture, development economics or related fields

Five years of relevant experience in planning, monitoring and evaluation, financial analysis, business process analysis and/or systems development, monitoring and evaluation

Working knowledge of English and limited knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish)

Competencies

Results Focus

Team Work

Communication

Tags continuous improvement internal oversight knowledge sharing monitoring and evaluation monitoring and reporting programme implementation public administration risk management standards of conduct translation transparency

Building effective relationships

Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement

Technical/Functional Skills

Work experience in more than one location or area of work, particularly in field positions is desirable

Extent and relevance of experience in collecting and analysing information from textual, databases

Extent and relevance of experience in analysing strategy and policy issues as well as planning, monitoring and evaluation, including servicing of governing bodies or committees

Familiarity with relevant computer tools for analysis and communication

Ability to analyze complex strategy and planning issues

Ability to analyze and integrate complex issues in systems development for business processes

Working knowledge of other FAO official languages (in particular French and Spanish) is considered a strong asset

FAO staff are expected to adhere to FAO Values of Commitment to FAO, Respect for All and Integrity and Transparency.

GENERAL INFORMATION

FAO reserves the right not to make an appointment.

CONDITIONS OF SERVICE

A competitive compensation and benefits package is offered. For information on UN salaries, allowances and benefits, click on the following link: http://www.un.org/Depts/OHRM/salaries allowances/salary.htm Other benefits, subject to eligibility, include:

Dependency allowances

Rental subsidy

Education grant for children

Home leave travel

30 working days of annual leave per year

Pension fund entitlements under the UN Joint Staff Pension Fund

International health insurance; optional life insurance

Disability protection

FAO encourages a positive workplace culture to increase inclusivity and diversity within its workforce. FAO applies measures in which all staff members contribute equally and in full to the work and development of the Organization. This includes:

elements of family-friendly policies

flexible working arrangements

standards of conduct.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply, visit the recruitment website at Jobs at FAO and complete your online profile. We strongly recommend that your profile is accurate, complete and includes your employment records, academic qualifications and language skills.

Candidates are requested to attach a letter of motivation to the online profile;

Once your profile is completed, please apply and submit your application;

Your application will be screened based on the information provided on your online profile;

Please note that FAO will only consider academic credentials or degrees obtained from an educational institution recognized in the IAU/UNESCO list;

Candidates may be requested to provide performance assessments and authorization to conduct verification checks of past and present work, character, education, military and police records to ascertain any and all information which may be pertinent to the employment qualifications;

Incomplete applications will not be considered;

Only applications received through the FAO recruitment portal will be considered;

We encourage applicants to submit the application well before the deadline date.

If you need help, or have queries, please contact: Careers@fao.org
This is Naked Capitalism fundraising week. 1410 donors have already invested in our efforts to combat corruption and predatory conduct, particularly in the financial realm. Please join us and participate via our donation page, which shows how to give via check, credit card, debit card, or PayPal. Read about why were doing this fundraiser, what weve accomplished in the last year, and our current goal, more original reporting.

Yves here. We foresaw social polarization and breakdown years back due to failure of post financial crisis reforms to fix what was really broken: an economic model that had produced stagnant real worker wages for decades, and used rising debt levels to produce increases in household consumption. This is a prescription for rising inequality, which as it becomes more extreme, produces multiple types of desperation and resentments: downward mobility, either currently or for children; a valid perception that the system is unfair, which means the losers have no reason to support it. But we also argued, given the lack of any tradition in the US of successful revolts, the perception that protestors (save for the causes of other) are shabby malcontents (as in protesting for your interests is proof you arent a good middle class person), and atomization, made worse by the progress of neoliberalism, led us to predict that protests would mainly take the form of individuals acting out (see school and workplace shooters) as opposed to cohesive action.

By Ore Koren, Assistant Professor, Indiana University Bloomington; International Security Fellow, Indiana University. Originally published at The Conversation

After Kenyas 2007 election, as incumbent President Mwai Kibaki declared victory, the opposition alleged the election had been rigged.

A wave of protests, riots and ethnic violence followed. As many as 1,500 citizens were killed and another 600,000 forcibly displaced.

As the U.S. presidential election draws near, many have expressed concern that a similar scenario may unfold here. Some envision President Donald Trumps supporters using misinformation to mobilize vigilante militias to clash with leftist protesters. Others envision that groups on the left will refuse to accept the results and mobilize, leading to violence and deaths across the country.

Having a contested election in times of crisis, however, is by no means a guarantee of violence. The front-runners in the 2017 French presidential election, for example, were as politically polarizing as their U.S. 2020 counterparts, with centrist candidate Emmanuel Macron calling right-wing leader Marine Le Pens party racist and xenophobic and Le Pen charging that Macron was the candidate of savage globalisation.

And the first round of voting in France took place just after a shooting in the heart of Paris sent the country into a state of emergency. Yet, as the votes were counted and Macron was declared the winner, Le Pen conceded defeat, allowing for a peaceful transition.

With the barrage of 24/7 media coverage of the upcoming U.S. election, it can be hard to tell whats real and whats not  and that can be frightening. Its important to step back and ask: What does the research say about the likelihood of election-related violence in November?

Predicting Political Instability

When social science researchers like me try to predict political violence, we look at a large number of historical cases across multiple countries, and try to identify which events have resulted in many casualties.

In taking this approach, we can systematically evaluate what explains these extreme events, pinpointing specific issues that were present in most of the situations, and avoiding the inaccuracies that can happen by relying too much on anecdotal stories.

Such studies have highlighted three factors relevant to the upcoming election.

First, strong political institutions are especially effective in reducing the risk of violence. Many have voiced concerns that President Trump has weakened American political institutions. But as one of the worlds longest-enduring democracies, the United States and its democratic institutions have proven their capacity to maintain order through crises and abuse of presidential power before.

In the U.S., for example, despite allegations to the contrary, electoral fraud is extremely rare. Even if uncertainty and chaos were to ensue in the wake of the election, the authority to decide a winner is vested in an independent institution such as the U.S. Supreme Court or by the House of Representatives. Kenya in 2007 had no comparable institutional anchors to help ensure post-election stability.

Second, research, including my own, finds that mass political violence usually happens in countries that have no capacity to prevent it. In Kenya, for example, most violence was perpetrated by unofficial militias affiliated with ethnic or religious groups, such as the Mungiki, which the government was unable  or unwilling  to curb.

In the U.S., if any political leader calls for vigilantes to mobilize, both the federal government and states have the capacity to expeditiously eliminate this threat. Militias may be armed, but they are no match for a well-trained National Guard or Army regiment. This should help deter the risk of violence by vigilantes.

Some, however, fear that the president will send federal agencies to seize ballots. Although military officers continue to express formal commitment to keeping the military nonpoliticized, such actions, if taken, may result in a violent backlash by left-wing vigilantes. But federal agents acting under orders from the White House will have the tactical upper hand in such clashes, which greatly adds to their deterrent capacity.

Finally, an especially strong predictor of election violence is a history of armed political conflict. After the 2016 elections, America experienced massive protests and some rioting, but little in the way of deadly political violence.

What the Numbers Say

Is post-election violence impossible in 2020 America? No.

However, data suggests it is unlikely.

Ninety-five percent of the 12,607 political demonstrations in the U.S. between May 24 and Sept. 19, 2020, were peaceful. There were 351 other kinds of incidents, including imposing curfews and perpetrating physical attacks. In 29 of those, there was violence against civilians, where 12 people were killed, nine of them by the police. And in an additional five drive-by shootings, three police officers were killed by the extremist group the Boogaloo Bois.

Considering the number of people involved in the recent Black Lives Matter and COVID-19 protests, and the fact that many were heavily armed, these casualty figures are surprisingly low. According to the data, the majority of deaths were caused by police, not vigilantes or protesters, and all of the perpetrators (with the exception of two drive-by shooters), police and civilians alike, were taken into custody.

Like the U.S., France experienced protests and riots, in addition to multiple terrorist attacks, prior to Election Day. There was even a government plan to handle the potential violence and instability that might ensue if Le Pen were elected. And yet, as the most polarizing elections in decades concluded, there were few riots and no killing.

So, What Will Happen in November?

Researchers cannot perfectly predict political violence. Their analyses rely on the past.

Add to the equation a notoriously unpredictable incumbentagainst a backdrop of unprecedented social and economic conditions, and making accurate predictions about potential post-election bedlam is impossible, as much as scholars and others may try.

While I think some concern is valid, it is important to remember that there is a big difference between using a call to arms to mobilize your voters and instill fear in the other partys supporters, and staging a post-election insurrection, which could subject its instigators to charges of sedition, if not high treason.

Ultimately, the three factors discussed here suggest that fears of widespread violence by vigilantes and activists during and after Election Day should be treated as fears, not as a probable outcome.
The Rainy River District Social Services Administration Board (RRDSSAB) has purchased the Apostolic Way Church located on 324 Victoria Ave. to have a permanent solution for the local homeless population.

Dan McCormick, chief administrative officer at RRDSSAB, said this purchase means they have a permanent location for the Out of The Cold warming centre.

However, McCormick said even having a permanent shelter location does not solve the problem because it has to be coupled with treatment programs. One solution RRDSSAB is looking at is the Safe Beds Program which stays up to 30 days. McCormick said it is a treatment program that individuals usually join after they get recommendation from the OPP.

The second program RRDSSAB is working on is a Transition Bed Program where individuals go into a rehabilitation program for up to two years. McCormick said then they would try to get them into permanent housing in either a bachelor apartment or a one-bedroom apartment that they can afford depending on the income they have.

That being said, McCormick stressed that RRDSSABs priority is getting the homeless population off the streets, while knowing all too well that they will never be able to get all the people that are homeless into a program.

Unfortunately, there will still be some people that either wont participate or wont be able to follow the rules. Those are going to be the hard ones to serve. When youre in the programs there are no alcohol or drugs. There are requirements to be in at night. There are no guests in the building after certain hours, McCormick said.

But hopefully we can get even a percentage of those people through a program to get them into some stable housing and hopefully some stable employment.

Right now, McCormick said RRDSSAB is working to get community partners such as the Canadian Medical Health Association, Fort Frances Tribal Area Health Authority and the Gizhewaadiziwin Health Access Centre to help the homeless population in their transition to permanent housing. McCormick said they will also turn to Riverside to provide medical support.

We are also starting to do the design and development work on it. There are job ads going out right now for workers to work there and that is going to be for contract duration from Dec. 1 until March 31, with possibility for extensions, McCormick said.

Thus far, RRDSSAB secured $200,000 in funding through Reaching Home for capital improvement. The first $100,000 will be spent before March 31, 2021. They will go towards roofing on the rear portion of the church before winter; that portion currently leaks.

The latter $100,000 have to be spent in capital improvements between April 1, 2021 to March 31, 2022.

We continue to work with the homelessness committee, McCormick said. There are several agencies involved with that. They help provide us with directions and ideas and obviously we are still working to form more partnerships to help these individuals.
The Kano State Government has announced that schools in the state will resume on October 11, about six months after they and other schools across Nigeria were shut due to the coronavirus.

The states Commissioner for Education, Muhammad Kiru, confirmed the reopening to journalists on Thursday. He also outlined the conditions the schools should meet to avoid the spread of COVID-19 when they open.

Providing more details, Mr Kiru said all government approved Islamiyya (Islamic) schools shall re-open under strict compliance with the COVID-19 protocols on October 11.

He said Primary 1 and 2 pupils are to attend classes only on Mondays and Tuesdays while Primary 3, 4 and 5 pupils will attend classes only on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.

However, JSS 1 and SS1 students in both public and private schools are to wait at home for additional five weeks until the end of transitional and qualifying examinations to ensure social distances in classes and hostels.

JSS 2, JSS 3 & SS 2 are to fully resume in preparation of the forthcoming qualifying and transitional examinations.

The government also approved the immediate decontamination of the 8,582 public schools in addition to the private schools involved in the reopening exercise, the official said.
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Several passengers on one of Vietjet's commercial flights from South Korea spent more than ten hours at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City on Wednesday as they could not reach an agreement on quarantine charges with the low-cost carrier.

Commercial flight VJ963 from Incheon International Airport landed at Tan Son Nhat at 12:30 pm on that day.

Over ten hours after their arrival, 158 passengers on the flight still stayed at the Ho Chi Minh City-based airport.

They did not move to hotels for quarantine as per regulations due to disagreement with Vietjet over the price for their stay.

According to passenger Truong Thanh Diep, all the passengers agreed to the quarantine price of VND1.3 million (US$56) per a day for a four-guest room announced by Vietjet upon landing.

But the price was increased to VND1.7 million ($74) and then VND5 million ($216) just minutes later as Vietjet said that it could not find a hotel for the passengers at the earlier announced price.

We are not clearly informed of the [increased] price of quarantine, which is beyond the affordability of many passengers on the flight, said Diep.

After hours of waiting, elderly passengers, women, and children were extremely hungry, thirsty, and tired."

Phan Van Vu, another passenger on the flight, said that before their departure at Incheon International Airport, the passengers were given a flight agreement detailing the costs of quarantine at a hotel, transportation, COVID-19 testing, and other related charges.

Accordingly, the quarantine price was expected not to exceed $100 per person per night and the quarantine period would be 14 days.

The three selected hotels were De Nhat Hotel in Tan Binh District, Bat Dat Hotel in District 5, and IBIS Saigon South in Tan Phu District.

The agreement also includes a condition that Vietjet holds no liability for any loss, charge, violation to the contracts, or any other damage if the airline is unable to provide services as requested in advance by the passengers, according to Vu.

The passengers were asked to sign on two copies of the agreement, with the airline denying service to those who did not agree to do so, he said.

As of 10:00 pm on Wednesday, many families of the stranded passengers brought water and snacks to the airport to support the returnees.

A bus tasked with carrying returnees from South Korea to quarantine facilities remains at Tan Son Nhat International Airport as the passengers stayed at the airport over ten hours due to their disapproval of the quarantine price announced by low-cost Vietnamese airline Vietjet, September 30, 2020. Photo: T. Diep / Tuoi Tre

Problem solved

To handle the issue, the management board of Tan Son Nhat International Airport told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper on Wednesday evening that the Vietjet passengers would be carried to a centralized quarantine facility in Can Gio District on the same night.

In response to Tuoi Tres questions on Thursday morning, Vietjet expressed its hope that passengers understand the troubles and impacts arising from this unexpected situation.

The airline confirmed that it had provided support and coordinated with the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam, the airport, the Ho Chi Minh City Center for Disease Control, security agencies, accommodation units, and hotels to send the passengers to quarantine facilities in accordance with regulations.

According to the airline, the first batch of passengers left the airport for hotels and some quarantine establishments at 5:45 pm on Wednesday. The rest of them and the cabin crew followed suit at 10:05 pm on the same day.

Particularly, 43 passengers were taken to a field hospital in Can Gio District, one to Nguyen Tri Phuong Hospital in District 5, and the flight crew to a hotel for quarantine.

The airline hopes to receive customer support and feedback to coordinate with relevant agencies to operate international flights in the conditions of pandemic prevention and better serve our customers, the carrier said in the response.

Vietjets international commercial flights between Vietnam and South Korea have only been resumed with a frequency of one flight on each route per week, starting Wednesday, September 30. Its two flights departing from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City for Seoul took off on Wednesday morning.

The carrier has also announced the resumption of its commercial flights to Japan and Taiwan.

The government already restored commercial flights to certain destinations, including Thailand, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and mainland China.

Entrants from these places are now required to present certificates proving they tested negative for the novel coronavirus within three days of their boarding flights.

Vietnam began barring entry to foreign nationals on March 22 and had suspended international commercial flights from March 25 in a bid to curb the spread of COVID-19.

Since then, charter flights to the country have only been arranged to bring in experts, skilled workers, and diplomats, and to repatriate Vietnamese citizens stranded in other nations and territories due to the pandemic.

Vietnam currently charges international arrivals for quarantine. It provided the quarantine service for free in the past.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
IRVINE, Calif., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported total September sales of 24,237 vehicles, an increase of 28.7 percent compared to September 2019. Year-to-date sales totaled 203,280 vehicles; a decrease of 2.3 percent compared to the same time last year. With 25 selling days in September, compared to 23 the year prior, the company posted an increase of 18.4 percent on a Daily Selling Rate (DSR) basis.

Sales Highlights

- Sales of the CX-5 saw its best September since launch with 13,582 vehicles sold.

- Sales of the CX-9 saw its best September since 2011 with 2,183 vehicles sold.

- Sales of the MX-5 saw its best September since 2015 with 862 vehicles sold.

- CPO sales totaled 6,016 vehicles in September, an increase of 35 percent compared to August 2019, and achieved its best September.

Mazda Motor de Mexico (MMdM) reported September sales of 4,089 vehicles, a decrease 4.8 percent compared to September last year. Year-to-date sales decreased 28.3 percent, with 31,078 vehicles sold.

Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, California, and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States and Mexico through approximately 620 dealers. Operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City. For more information on Mazda vehicles, including photography and B-roll, please visit the online Mazda media center at InsideMazda.MazdaUSA.com/Newsroom.

Follow MNAO's social media channels through Twitter and Instagram at @MazdaUSA and Facebook at Facebook.com/MazdaUSA.









Month-To-Date

Year-To-Date





















September September YOY % % MTD

September September YOY % % MTD

2020 2019 Change DSR

2020 2019 Change DSR



















Mazda3 2,535 3,507 (27.7)% (33.5)%

25,169 40,506 (37.9)% (38.1)% Mazda6 1,451 1,119 29.7% 19.3%

11,965 17,285 (30.8)% (31.1)% MX-5 Miata 862 512 68.4% 54.9%

6,652 6,351 4.7% 4.3% CX-3 436 1,449 (69.9)% (72.3)%

7,012 11,780 (40.5)% (40.7)% CX-30 3,188 0





27,793 0



CX-5 13,582 10,332 31.5% 20.9%

104,277 113,702 (8.3)% (8.7)% CX-9 2,183 1,919 13.8% 4.7%

20,412 18,543 10.1% 9.6%







































CARS 4,848 5,138 (5.6)% (13.2)%

43,786 64,142 (31.7)% (32.0)% TRUCKS 19,389 13,700 41.5% 30.2%

159,494 144,025 10.7% 10.3%



















TOTAL 24,237 18,838 28.7% 18.4%

203,280 208,167 (2.3)% (2.8)%







































*Selling Days 25 23





230 229







SOURCE Mazda North American Operations

Related Links

www.mazdausa.com


Three years after City College of San Francisco emerged from an accreditation crisis that nearly shut it down, accreditors have placed the school on enhanced monitoring because its finances are in the danger zone.

City College scored in the lowest at-risk category in a financial analysis by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, which in 2017 renewed the schools all-important accreditation for another seven years.

The new monitoring requirement imposed by the commission means City College has until Dec. 4 to explain how it will address six problems that are keeping the school financially unstable.

Besides salaries eating up more than 92% of total expenditures in recent years, there have been multiple leadership turnover and an audit showing severe financial losses.

The commission also found that over three years, deficits averaged $13.3 million, and cash plunged from $53 million to $575,000. Also, the cost to operate the college  known as the net operating revenue ratio  was in deep negative territory, at -8.3%.

Mark Rocha, who was hired as chancellor in 2017 after the five-year accrediting crisis came to an end, resigned under pressure in March after a series of debacles in which he both cut classes and tried to increase executive salaries with little to no public notice.

In her Sept. 23 letter informing interim Chancellor Raj Vurdien of the new status, Stephanie Droker, president of the accrediting commission, thanked Vurdien for his candor and the updates he has provided on the colleges fiscal condition.

I have found our conversations to be very productive and I look forward to supporting your efforts ... to address the institutions fiscal issues, Droker wrote.

In turn, Vurdien posted Drokers letter on the City College website with a response he wrote intended to reassure the public.

City College is confident it can address the financial issues outlined in this letter, he wrote, adding that his staff will present several budget scenarios to the trustees at a special meeting next Thursday. He said the trustees will approve a final budget and five-year budget plan at their regular meeting on Oct. 22.

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.

Vurdien also assured the public that the new enhanced monitoring status is not a sanction that threatens the schools accreditation.

However, Droker noted in her letter, if the college misses the deadline for showing how it will address the six issues, that could change.

More than 55,000 full- and part-time students enrolled in City College last year. The spring semester saw a 24% drop in enrollment compared with spring 2019  a loss of more than 10,000 students, to 31,443.

The $222 million college has five vacant leadership positions. Without raising more money and spending less, the college expects to operate in the red for at least five years.

Nanette Asimov is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: nasimov@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @NanetteAsimov
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 21:48:06|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- More than half of China's Internet start-up businesses were set up by women, Chinese President Xi Jinping said Thursday at a high-level meeting on the 25th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women. Enditem
Gov. Pete Ricketts said Wednesday he shares some of the concerns expressed by President Donald Trump about the validity of some of the mail votes cast for president in other states.

"There are concerns to be raised in other states," where ballots are counted if they are mailed and postmarked by Election Day, the governor said in answer to questions during a Capitol news conference.

"Postmarks can be changed," he said, and counting ballots "weeks after the election is concerning."

During Tuesday night's presidential debate, Trump suggested he might not accept the results of next month's election if he loses.

"If I see tens of thousands of ballots being manipulated, I can't go along with that," Trump said.

In Nebraska, mail ballots must be received before closure of the polls on Election Day to be counted.

Ricketts said he believed Trump "came off being very strong" in the debate with Democratic nominee Joe Biden.

"One of the things that struck me was that Joe Biden would not come out against packing the Supreme Court," the governor said, "and that to me is shocking."
On Sunday, long-term residents in New Caledonia will go to the polls, to vote in a referendum on the political status of the French Pacific dependency. For New Caledonias independence movement, its just one more step on the long path to sovereignty and nationhood.

At a time of economic uncertainty during a global pandemic and recession, many voters may worry whether its the right time for change. But for Kanak leader Paul Neaoutyine, whether now or later, our accession to sovereignty is inevitable.

This is the second referendum to be held under the Noumea Accord, an agreement signed in May 1998 by the French state, anti-independence leaders and the independence coalition Front de Liberation Nationale Kanak et Socialiste (FLNKS).

The first referendum under the Noumea Accord was held in November 2018, with conservative politicians predicting the independence movement would only get 30 per cent support. However the final result showed 43 per cent in favour of independence, while nearly 57 per cent voted to remaining within the French Republic. Despite the victory for those opposed to independence, the size of the Yes vote disheartened many conservatives and opened the way for this Sundays second referendum.

Roch Wamytan is Speaker of the Congress of New Caledonia and a veteran member of the independence party Union Caledonienne, or UC. Asked whether the independence movement can win, he responds cautiously: I am hopeful that we will increase our score. Im not sure whether well get more than 50 per cent and may have to wait until the third referendum, but we certainly hope to get a few more percentage points beyond the 43 per cent obtained in 2018. This will strengthen us in the discussions that we will have to undertake with the French state.

If a majority of voters say Yes on Sunday, the FLNKS has proposed a three year transition to nationhood. This would involve negotiations with the French government over the transfer of sovereign powers such as defence, foreign policy, currency and the justice system; the signing of partnerships with France on nationality and dual nationality; seeking membership of the United Nations, World Bank and other multilateral institutions; and guaranteeing funding to replace the many French public servants who staff the local administration.

If theres a majority against independence, the political status quo is retained. Under the Noumea Accord, however, a No vote opens the way to a third referendum in 2022, and the FLNKS has already stated they will continue down the path to decolonisation.

Kanak politician Roch Wamytan says that the shock result in 2018 led to the formation of a conservative alliance of six anti-independence parties, dubbed The Loyalists, who want to roll back the achievements of the Noumea Accord.

Last time, the anti-independence camp was almost drunk, intoxicated by opinion polls that suggested the No vote could be as high as 75 or 80 per cent, Wamytan told me. Many anti-independence people were quite reassured by the polling. But the final result on the night of 4 November 2018 showed quite the contrary. They were delirious in their dream of burying the call for independence. Even 30 years after the Matignon Accords, the desire for independence amongst the Kanak people was still very strong.

Wamytan says that debate has sharpened since then: This time, the anti-independence groups are more on the offensive. This was also reflected in the May 2019 elections, especially amongst the Europeans of the suburbs [of the capital Noumea]. When Madame Backes and her group got control of the Southern Province, they went on the offensive against the Kanak.

Louis Mapou is leader of the Union Nationale pour lIndependance, the UNI parliamentary group in New Caledonias Congress. He agrees that this years debate is more polarised. Mapou also dismisses pledges by the French government to remain impartial above the fray: As a partner, the French state has become biased in favour of a No vote for the referendum on 4 October.

Just three months before the vote, French President Emmanuel Macron reshuffled his cabinet, appointing Jean Castex as his new Prime Minister. It took Castex until this week to make a parliamentary statement on New Caledonia, stunning supporters and opponents of independence alike by the apparent disinterest. For months, UC President Daniel Goa has been sharply critical of new French Prime Minister: Since his appointment, we have had no discussion, no exchanges. He is not interested in this territory. President Macron has also sent us a high commissioner who is nothing more than a governor, and who lacks the profile for New Caledonia, which is in a process of emancipation and decolonisation.

The FLNKS has long provided a framework to calm the often fractious relationship between its two largest members: Union Caledonienne and the Parti de Liberation Kanak. This year, there is unity in action for the referendum campaign, with local Committees of Citizens and Nationalists in each municipality uniting independence supporters across party lines.

Outside the FLNKS, a number of smaller parties supporting independence have also joined the campaign. During the 2018 referendum campaign, the left-wing Party Travailliste, or PT, and the trade union confederation USTKE advocated non-participation, criticising concessions by the FLNKS and arguing that only the colonised Kanak people should vote. This year, however, both PT and USTKE are calling for a Yes vote, joining with other indigenous activists to form the Mouvement Nationaliste pour la Souverainete de Kanaky (MNSK). Although smaller than the FLNKS, the MNSK will mobilise pockets of support amongst those members who abstained last time in the rural north and Loyalty Islands.

PTs Louis Kotra Uregei says the objective is to truly build the case [traditional house] of Kanaky, to welcome all those who have come to live with the Kanak people and become the people of Kanaky. Our struggle is not just for the Kanak, but for all those who have been recognised as the victims of history  people who have been in the country for a long time, and who face the same problems as the Kanak face today.

The 2018 referendum reflected the broad polarisation of New Caledonias politics, with most Kanak supporting independence and most non-Kanak opposed. The FLNKS must draw support from non-indigenous voters to win the referendum, given the Kanak people only make up 40 per cent of New Caledonias population, and a minority of Kanak voters are still reluctant to support independence.

There are signs of change however amongst younger voters, in rural areas, and for the many islanders who have migrated to New Caledonia from Vanuatu, Tahiti and Wallis and Futuna.

The creation in March 2019 of a new political party Eveil oceanien, or EO, highlights the desire to transcend old divisions amongst younger voters. Drawing support from the large Wallisian and Futunan community, EO has created an islander majority in Congress, leading to the re-election of independence leader Roch Wamytan as head of the legislature. For the first time, EO has said its supporters should decide for themselves whether to vote Yes or No, a significant shift from the historic loyalty to France in the Wallisian community.

There are also significant cultural and political shifts in the Northern Province, which has been managed by a pro-independence administration for more than 30 years. The experience of living and working together is slowly changing opinions amongst Caldoche farmers  the descendants of French settlers who have lived in the north for generations, and who were bitterly opposed to independence during the 1980s.

Provincial president Paul Neaoutyine is the long-time leader of the Parti de Liberation Kanak and the UNI parliamentary group. In an interview with Le Monde, Neaoutyine highlighted the economic rebalancing created by the Noumea Accord, with his administration focussed on reducing social and economic inequality in the rural north: In the Northern Province, where I preside, we make sure that the benefit of our political actions goes to these people, and not in the pockets of a privileged minority. The law prioritising local employment would never have existed without the struggle of the independence movement. But it benefits all the citizens of the country, not only Kanak.

Patricia Goa is a key adviser to the provincial president, and an elected UNI member in the national Congress.

Today, we understand that were not only talking for the Kanak people, she said. The important thing to say is that even if we Kanak are a majority of independence supporters, its really a process for all New Caledonians living in Kanaky. Its not just for us that we are struggling today. Lets not create opposition amongst all the people living on this land. Were not just talking about a people, were talking about a nation.

Since the 1970s, a key objective of the independence movement has been to break French control over the mining industry and nickel smelting, the key economic sectors within New Caledonia. For decades, successive governments in Paris guaranteed a monopoly over smelting to the French corporation ERAMET and its local subsidiary Societe le Nickel, which operates the Doniambo smelter in the capital.

The signing of the Noumea Accord in May 1998 was preceded by a deal that allowed the transfer of strategic deposits of high-grade nickel ore to the Northern Province, through its development agency SOFINOR and the SMSP mining company. This opened the way for the construction of a new nickel smelter at Koniambo in the north of the country  a major project that many conservatives predicted would never be realised.

Living in the tribe of Baco, outside the provincial capital Koohne, Patricia Goa has seen the rural north transformed by the construction of the smelter in a joint venture between the province, SMSP and the transnational corporation Glencore. Goa stresses that SOFINOR and SMSP hold 51 per cent control of Koniambo Nickel SAS, an unprecedented deal for a resource project in Melanesia.

KNS is a major player in the economic rebalancing of our country, she said. New Caledonia holds one quarter of the worlds nickel and the nickel sector is the largest employer in New Caledonia. But nickel resources are not renewable. We really have to think about how are working for future generations  thats what our cultural heritage is saying.

To add value to New Caledonias vast mineral resources, the FLNKS have looked beyond simply exporting ore to traditional markets in France, Japan and Australia. The Northern provincial administration has now established offshore smelters in South Korea and China, through joint ventures between SMSP and the Korean company Posco and the Chinese corporation Yinchuan.

President of New Caledonia Thierry Santa, a leader of the anti-independence Loyalist alliance, recognises that historic differences between elements of the independence movement are being replaced by unity over resources policy.

The attitude taken by Union Caledonienne  the largest pro-independence party  about control of the minerals sector has sharply radicalised compared to the past, Santa told me. The UNI has always been steadfast in its policy on the mining industry, but what weve seen over the last month is the UC President moving much closer to the policy expressed by UNI and the Northern Province.

Until now, UC had always been more pragmatic and less doctrinaire, Santa said. They recognised the necessity of maintaining mining across the territory, and the need for diversity of production  for domestic use, for export, and for use by the overseas smelters. Now we see a united policy from all parts of the independence movement opposed to the export of ore, except to the overseas smelters.

On 19 September, hundreds of young demonstrators marched through central Noumea bearing the multi-coloured flag of Kanaky, calling for a Yes vote. But the vibrant protest masked a more serious side to young Kanak, who see training and education as a crucial part of the struggle.

Even if we are losing our bearings, we must continue to go to school to become better trained adults, 24-year-old Pauline told journalists. When you have a degree, you have more chance to build our country, to move it forward. You have to be serious. You cant just go crying Kanaky everywhere and expect to change things.

As hundreds of first-time voters turn out in 2020, its worth remembering that the Noumea Accord was signed before they were born. The armed clashes of the mid-1980s are ancient history for younger voters, who have grown up under a multi-party government that includes both supporters and opponents of independence.

Despite this, the 2018 referendum saw a massive turn-out of young Kanak voters, and the FLNKS is working hard to mobilise people who are wary of old rivalries amongst politicians. Last July, FLNKS spokesperson Daniel Goa called for a general mobilisation of all political forces, calling on young people to participate: Our youth must get involved and be active at local level. It is their fight and it will be their victory.

Today, as a leading Yes campaigner in the north, Magalie Tingal says the independence movement has been forced to adapt to 21st Century realities, using social media and talking to youth who are wary of political division.

We can feel on the ground that people want more information, she said. There are plenty of young intellectual Kanak who want more and more information about what independence means. Campaigning for independence in this millennium, we use a lot of social media, and even ten years ago we didnt have that type of campaigning. People are listening but have done their own studies, so we cant campaign like we did ten years ago.

She highlights the need to decolonise minds as well as institutions: Our elders put us on the path to decolonisation. But we are also talking about the decolonisation of our minds. Independence is scary for some people here, so we have to educate people through meetings, discussion and information. We are talking about living together.

This referendum is framed by broader global realities. France has markedly improved its diplomatic relations with neighbouring Pacific states, undercutting historic support for the FLNKS. Australia  as the largest member of the Pacific Islands Forum  has forged a strategic partnership with Paris, seeing France as a bulwark against Chinese influence in the region. At the same time, the coronavirus pandemic has caused more than 31,000 deaths in France and led to border closures and economic downturn in New Caledonia. China is New Caledonias main export market, but US-China tensions and global recession create uncertainty in the nickel sector.

The No campaign mounted by the six-member Loyalist alliance seeks to roll back the economic, social and political advances created by the Noumea Accord. But the flourishing of bleu-blanc-rouge flags during the campaign belies the reality that many New Caledonians are looking beyond France towards Asia-Pacific partners like China, Korea and Australia for trade, tourism and services.

Charles Wea has represented the FLNKS in Australia and the Melanesian Spearhead Group, which unites nearby Melanesian nations. He says that an independent Kanaky-New Caledonia would maintain ties with France but build new relationships in the Pacific region.

If New Caledonia were to become independent tomorrow, we would establish relations with countries that we share values with, Wea said. Secondly, we would build relations with countries where we have economic, political and cultural interests. For example, we already have an offshore smelter in Korea, so thats the sort of country where we have to establish a bilateral relationship.

Today, through the MSG and Pacific Islands Forum, New Caledonia has already built new trade and commercial ties to neighbours like Vanuatu and Fiji. The government of New Caledonia has begun to place representatives in French embassies in Canberra, Wellington, Suva, Port Vila and Port Moresby. Magalie Tingal argues: For the FLNKS, independence doesnt mean we close our doors to France or anyone. Independence opens us up to the international stage.

Patricia Goa agrees that a Yes vote wont lead to a rupture with France: Im not against France. I have spoken French since I was six years old, although I have my own language. I breathe French because of colonisation, thats the fact. I know French history, maybe more than the French themselves. What we are saying is, weve come to a stage where the people are asking for sovereignty. Whats wrong with having cooperation with China and others? The difference is, we want to choose that relationship as a free state!

Reporting for this article was supported by a Sean Dorney Grant for Pacific Journalism through the Walkley Public Fund
Senate Republicans have distanced themselves from Donald Trumps refusal at the first presidential debate on Tuesday to outright condemn a far-right white supremacist group, saying that while they believe the president misspoke, he should have been unequivocal in his denunciation.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell directed reporters on Wednesday to comments from Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina, the lone black Republican in the chamber.

I think he said it exactly correctly, and that's exactly how I would express myself on that issue, Mr McConnell said.

He said it was unacceptable not to condemn white supremacists, and so I do so in the strongest possible way, the majority leader said.

Earlier in the day, Mr Scott appeared to give Mr Trump some benefit of the doubt for telling the Proud Boys, an all-male gang known for violence at public rallies and a misogynistic, racist philosophy, to stand back and stand by, which several members of the group took to be a ringing endorsement of their recent actions confronting left-wing activists at racial justice demonstrations.

A right-wing group that sprung up after Mr Trump was elected, The Proud Boys have evolved from pseudo-intellectual hipster origins into a more thuggish, openly extremist group that calls for violence increasingly openly.

I think he misspoke, Mr Scott told reporters of Mr Trumps choice of words when asked about the group.

I think he should correct it. If he doesn't correct it, I guess he didn't misspeak, he said.

But he also stressed that white supremacy should be denounced at every turn.

Other Republicans on Capitol Hill expressed similar dismay at the presidents decision not to seize the opportunity to categorically denounce white supremacists.

North Dakota Senator John Thune, Mr McConnells top deputy in the chamber, said Mr Trump ought to clear it up, referring to the Proud Boys comments.

He should unequivocally condemn white supremacy, Louisiana Republican Senator Bill Cassidy said.

Mr Trump on Wednesday clarified that he did not know anything about the group.

I dont know who Proud Boys are, but whoever they are, they have to stand down, let law enforcement do their work, the president said.

But his aides both in the White House and on his re-election campaign declined to add to or contextualise the presidents remarks from the debate.

Senior campaign adviser Jason Miller told USA Today that Mr Trumps phrase from Tuesdays debate, Stand back and stand by, constituted a message to knock it off.

White House communications director Alyssa Farah declined the opportunity to clarify the presidents remarks in an interview with Fox News on Wednesday.

I dont think that theres anything to clarify. He's told them to stand back, she said.

Democrats have skewered the president for not more forcefully denouncing white supremacists or the Proud Boys.

Donald Trump is a white supremacist, New York Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez tweeted on Wednesday.

People have been warning about this for a long time. They were ridiculed, called hyperbolic [and] radical  not [because] they were wrong, but [because] others couldn't accept that our country elected a supremacist as President. This is fascism at our door, she wrote.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said white supremacists were the only Americans celebrating the debate last night, which has been widely ridiculed as the most disgraceful in US history due to constant interruptions from the president and his unwillingness to defer to the moderator, Fox News Chris Wallace.

President Obama once wondered, rhetorically: How hard is it to say that Nazis are bad? Mr Schumer said on the Senate floor on Wednesday.

Apparently, for President Trump, it is beyond his capacity. In a national debate, he not only refused to condemn a far-right group of violent, white supremacists, he told them to stand by, the minority leader said.

He continued: I just want to ask my Republican colleagues: How are you not embarrassed that President Trump represents your party? How can you possibly, possibly, support anyone who behaves this way? Are you watching the same person that we are? Are you listening?
By Eric M. Johnson and David Shepardson

SEATTLE/WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Chief Steve Dickson conducted a nearly two-hour evaluation flight at the controls of a Boeing 737 MAX on Wednesday, a milestone for the jet to win approval to resume flying after two fatal crashes.

Dickson, a former military and commercial pilot, and other FAA and Boeing pilots landed shortly before 11 a.m. local time (1800 GMT) at King County International Airport - also known as Boeing Field - in the Seattle area.

"I like what I saw on the flight," Dickson told a news conference afterwards, but said he was not ready to give the jet a clean bill of health, with FAA reviews still ongoing.

"We are not to the point yet where we have completed the process," Dickson said.

The flight was a key part of the U.S. planemaker's long-delayed quest to persuade the FAA to lift a March 2019 grounding order triggered by 737 MAX crashes in Ethiopia and Indonesia that killed 346 people within a five-month period.

The accidents plunged Boeing into its worst-ever crisis, strained its relationship with the FAA, threw into question the U.S. regulator's position as the standard-bearer for global aviation safety and prompted bipartisan calls in Congress to overhaul how the FAA certifies new airplanes.

Critics, including a crash victim's father, said the flight amounted to a publicity stunt and demanded the FAA release test data and other information so outside experts can make their own assessments.

"Without that secret data, independent experts and the public cannot confirm whether the aircraft is safe," said Michael Stumo, whose daughter was among the 157 people killed in the second 737 MAX crash, in Ethiopia.

Dickson said he completed new proposed pilot training requirements, a simulator session, and then conducted midair tests of 737 MAX design and operating changes intended to prevent disasters similar to the two crashes.

Story continues

In both accidents, a flawed control system known as MCAS, triggered by faulty data from a single airflow sensor, repeatedly and forcefully pushed down the jet's nose as pilots struggled to intervene.

If Dickson's flight and broader reviews go well, the FAA is seen as likely to lift its U.S. grounding order in November, sources said on Wednesday, putting the MAX on a path to resume commercial service potentially before year-end.

That timeline jibes with comments last week from Dickson's counterpart in Europe, Patrick Ky. He said the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) expects to lift its technical ban "not long" after the FAA, but national operational clearances needed for individual airlines to resume flying could take longer.

Separately, the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure on Wednesday unanimously approved bipartisan legislation to reform the FAA's aircraft certification process in the wake of the 737 MAX crashes.

(Reporting by Eric M. Johnson in Seattle and David Shepardson in Washington; additional reporting by Tracy Rucinski in Chicago; editing by David Gregorio, Steve Orlofsky and Jonathan Oatis)
West took over the reform effort for a department that missed more than 70% of its deadlines for making adjustments to some of its policing practices during the first year the consent decree went into effect. But she had only been in charge of the new bureau for about a month before the year-long period ended.
SAN RAMON, Calif., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Hill Physicians Medical Group, California's largest independent physician association, today announced it has signed agreements to expand their Medicare Advantage offerings. Hill Physicians will add two new Medicare Advantage plans, Brand New Day (HMO), and Western Health Advantage (HMO) for the 2021 benefit year.

Through Brand New Day (HMO), Hill Physicians' Medicare Advantage HMO members will have access to more than 500 primary care physicians and 1,900 specialists throughout Sacramento, San Francisco, San Mateo and San Joaquin Counties starting January 1, 2021.

Hill Physicians, who has a long-standing relationship with Western Health Advantage (HMO) serving Commercial members, will offer WHA MyCare and WHA MyCare Plus Medicare Advantage plans in Sacramento County, offering members access to over 115 primary care physicians and 320 specialists.

"We are excited to be working with both Brand New Day and Western Health Advantage. Both of these plans share our aligned vision of providing high-quality, affordable care to our Medicare Advantage members," said David Joyner, CEO of Hill Physicians.

"We're pleased to partner with Hill Physicians as one of the medical groups offering our new WHA MyCare Medicare Advantage plans," said Garry Maisel, President and CEO of Western Health Advantage. "Medicare beneficiaries will get convenience and faster decision-making when they stay with doctors they know and trust. Our close relationship with Hill Physicians enables that continuation of care they often need," he added.

Hill Physicians also will continue to offer Medicare Advantage plans through a number of health plan partners in all eleven counties they serve  Alameda, Contra Costa, Solano, El Dorado, Nevada, Placer and Yolo.

Brand New Day's Executive Vice President Jay B. Davis says that the addition of Hill Physicians Medical Group will help the company expand its reach into new markets and make Brand New Day's Medicare Advantage plans available to the communities that both Hill Physicians Medical Group and Brand New Day serve.

"We're delighted to announce our new care partner, the prestigious and widely respected Hill Physicians Medical Group and its distinguished roster of care providers. Together, we look forward to expanding our outreach and serving a wider range of members including those eligible for Medicare and Medicare and Medi-Cal," said Davis.

Medicare beneficiaries can enroll during the upcoming Medicare Annual Enrollment Period from October 15 to December 7. Medicare eligible beneficiaries seeking more information about enrolling in Medicare Advantage plans contracted with Hill Physicians can call a licensed sales agent at (888) 841-5119, [TTY: 711], Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 6:00pm and Saturday from 8:00am to 12:00pm, or by visiting www.jarinsuranceservices.com.

About Hill Physicians Medical Group

Hill Physicians Medical Group is the largest independent physician association in Northern California. Since 1984, it has provided consumers access to quality, patient-focused healthcare. The group, comprised of more than 4,000 primary care and specialty physicians, partners with leading health plans and hospitals, giving members access to healthcare in 11 counties spanning the Sacramento, Stanislaus and San Francisco Bay areas. Comprehensive case management programs, targeted clinical initiatives and a dedication to technological advancement place it at the forefront of the industry. Hill Physicians is consistently acknowledged as one of the top-performing medical groups in the state by The Integrated Healthcare Association and Association of Physician Groups. For more information, visit: www.HillPhysicians.com.

About Brand New Day

Brand New Day, a Medicare Advantage prescription health plan available in 16 California counties, offers a number of specialty plans in addition to its standard Medicare plan. Brand New Day offers comprehensive benefit programs designed for its members' unique healthcare needs. In addition to its Medicare only, Medicare and Medi-Cal members, the plan offers specialized programs for those with ongoing medical conditions including Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, Dementia and Mental Illness. It also serves those who live in long-term care facilities. Brand New Day's personalized approach is designed to keep its members healthy and independent and its team of caring healthcare professionals share one common goal -- to improve the overall well-being of each member by offering members "healthcare you can feel good about." For more information about Brand New Day, visit BNDHMO.com or call (866) 255-4795.

About Western Health Advantage

Western Health Advantage was founded by doctors to address the health care industry's evolving patient needs within an increasingly complex health care system. For over 22 years, Western Health Advantage has been recognized for providing access to quality, affordable health care to members across nine counties in Northern CA (Sacramento, El Dorado, Placer, Yolo, Colusa, Solano, Napa, Sonoma and Marin). For more information on Western Health Advantage's Medicare Advantage plans, visit medicare.westernhealth.com or call 888.992.7494.

Contact: Dan Robinson

Phone: 925.327.6731

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Hill Physicians Medical Group

Related Links

http://www.HillPhysicians.com


The rapid spread of COVID-19 infections has required the introduction of containment measures at all levels including the use of face masks, social distancing and also the measurement of body temperature as an indicator of possible virus infections. To comply with these containment measures, CEIA thermal detection solutions enable the measurement and alarm capability for elevated body surface temperatures without adding any extra manual operations and avoiding any contact between screeners and the persons screened.

The new CEIA TDU is available as an embedded upgrade sensing kit that can be installed on all current CEIA panel and elliptic column walk-through metal detectors (WTMDs). Designed for fast and cost effective screening operations, TDU enables simultaneous threat and fever detection on all screened persons from the same WTMD with no additional checkpoint space required. Continuous calibration of the thermal system ensures maximum accuracy and unique signaling including indication of the thermal alarm on the WTMD control unit display. TDU provides automatic and clear temperature alarm indication making it simple to operate with minimal training required.

The TDU has an exclusive integrated thermal calibration system with double reference (patented) that ensures automatic calibration. Each reference is constantly controlled by a sensor device that is 100% tested on a production setup that is NIST traceable and verified with equipment that is calibrated to ISO/IEC 17025 accredited standards

Availability

CEIA TDU is available now.

About CEIA USA

CEIA is a world leader in the design, engineering, and production of high-performance electromagnetic metal detectors and security screening products. CEIA USA offers a broad range of metal detection and security screening solutions for a variety of market applications including public events, schools, correctional and court facilities, transportation, public and private buildings, and loss prevention. CEIA USA provides nationwide sales, service and customer support to public (federal, state, and local governments) and private sector customers in North America. Dynamic solutions and exceptional service are the foundation of CEIA USA's commitment to customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.ceia-usa.com

SOURCE CEIA USA

Related Links

http://www.ceia-usa.com


WASHINGTON - Amy Coney Barrett, President Donald Trump's nominee to the Supreme Court, added her name to a local newspaper advertisement in 2006 that decried the "barbaric legacy" of Roe v. Wade and advocated overturning the landmark decision that guarantees a woman's right to an abortion.

The public declaration from Barrett drew criticism from a top Democrat on Thursday who warned that Senate confirmation of the conservative judge to replace the late liberal Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg will threaten women's reproductive rights.

Barrett, who met with 10 Republican senators at the Capitol on Thursday, likely will face questions at her confirmation hearings later this month about whether her personal beliefs will influence her legal rulings.

The White House, while not commenting directly on the ad, said Thursday that the president would never ask a judge to prejudge a case. Trump, who tapped Barrett last Saturday to replace Ginsburg, is pressing the Senate to confirm the nominee before the Nov. 3 presidential election.

Barrett was a law professor at the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Ind., when she attached her name to the ad placed by the St. Joseph County Right to Life group, of which Barrett and her husband, both Catholic, were members.

"We, the following citizens of Michiana, oppose abortion on demand and defend the right to life from fertilization to the end of natural life," read the ad in the South Bend (Indiana) Tribune. "Please continue to pray to end abortion."

The two-page ad ran on the anniversary of the 1973 Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion.

"It's time to put an end to the barbaric legacy of Roe v. Wade and restore laws that protect the lives of unborn children," the ad said.

Barrett did not disclose that she signed the ad to the Senate Judiciary Committee, which asks nominees to list any "published material you have written or edited, including material published only on the Internet, regardless of whether it was published in your name, another name or anonymously."

The existence of the ad was first reported by the Guardian.

A Democratic aide, with knowledge of the process, said the ad should have been included in her questionnaire that she submitted to the committee Tuesday. The aide spoke on the condition of anonymity to freely discuss the process.

During Tuesday night's presidential debate, Trump denied that abortion rights were on the ballot this November, and claimed not to know Barrett's view on the issue even though he's previously assured conservatives that he would nominate justices who would vote to overturn Roe v. Wade.

White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany, responding to a question about this discrepancy, said Thursday, "the president has been clear that he would never ask a judge to prejudge a case."

"Judge Amy Coney Barrett has on multiple occasions said it is never appropriate for a judge to impose that judge's personal convictions, whether they derive from faith or anywhere else on the law," McEnany said.

The beliefs of the St. Joseph County Right to Life members go further than some antiabortion groups. In their view, discarding unused embryos from in vitro fertilization was akin to abortion.

Jackie Appleman, the executive director of St Joseph County Right to Life, told the Guardian that the group not only supports the criminalization of doctors who perform abortions, but also making it illegal to throw away frozen embryos.

While it's unclear if Barrett holds these same views, her opposition to abortion is well-documented in her writings and speeches in academia. As a Notre Dame professor, she was a member of Faculty for Life, which promotes writings that "respect the value of human life from conception to natural death."

Since becoming a federal judge on the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals, she has joined some opinions that took the antiabortion position, including one in which she supported a rehearing of a case that overturned an Indiana law requiring anyone under 18 years old to notify their parents before getting an abortion.

Abortion rights advocates also point to writings by Barrett in which she suggests an openness to overturning Roe.

"If anything, the public response to controversial cases like Roe reflects public rejection of the proposition that stare decisis can declare a permanent victor in a divisive constitutional struggle rather than desire that precedent remain forever unchanging," Barrett wrote, referring to the legal doctrine that courts follow historical precedent.

Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., the top Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee that will consider Barrett's nomination, said Barrett has been an "outspoken critic of a woman's right to choose," and warned that she would undermine abortion rights.

"She has said as a judge, she would ignore precedent if it conflicted with her interpretation of the Constitution," Feinstein said. "Those statements, coupled with her record on the 7th Circuit, raise serious concerns about whether she would uphold the law."

About two-thirds of Americans support keeping Roe v. Wade in place while 29 percent favor overturning it, according to a CBS News poll published in June. Democrats - and, by a large margin, women - are more likely than Republicans and men to say abortion is an important factor in their 2020 vote for president, according to a Washington Post-ABC News poll.

Embracing the complete reversal of Roe v. Wade is politically difficult, even for some antiabortion Republicans, given the wide public support for the 50-year-old decision.

Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, who is in a tough reelection battle, said during a recent debate, "I think the likelihood of Roe v. Wade being overturned is very minimal. I don't see that happening."

But even if the justices don't address Roe directly, abortion rights advocates warn that the Supreme Court may take up other pending cases that wouldn't directly challenge the constitutionality of Roe, but could impose restrictions on abortions that would limit access for many women.

Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., who has said his support for a Supreme Court justice is contingent on their belief that Roe was "wrongly decided," met with Barrett on Thursday, but skirted questions about whether they discussed Roe.

"I think she's been very clear, I think, on her views on Roe," Hawley said. "How she will vote in the future on Roe, I don't know. I don't know how it will come up for her. I can't ask her that."

Asked whether he'll seek assurance from her under oath when she testifies that she believes it was wrongly decided, Hawley said he had wanted to "see record evidence before the nomination. And we have that."
After that sh**show of a debate Tuesday night, its important to remember theres still a country that we have to live in. Not like all of us can pack our bags and head for a more stable democracy, you know?

Which brings me to what should be the bulwark of our democracy, the United States Supreme Court. This is where politics doesnt matter, where the rule of law trumps (no pun intended) everything else, where cool and analytical minds parse the extreme fine points of American jurisprudence.

And it seems, for the most part, thats exactly what it does. Sure, there are going to be judges who lean conservative and judges who lean liberal, but it sure does seem a good chunk of the time a justice or two will seemingly flip sides, when, in fact, all they are doing is their job, namely defending the Constitution to the best of their intellectual ability.

Which brings us to Amy Coney Barrett, President Donald Trumps nominee for the Court, and recipient of pretty much the only true statement Trump made at the debate. It was the first question, and Trump was blunt and honest. Right now, the left is bellyaching about Trump choosing to nominate Barrett so close to the election, especially after the Mitch McConnell-led Senate refused to allow a vote on Merrick Garland back in 2016.

 we won the election and therefore we have the right to choose her, and very few people knowingly would say otherwise, Trump said. And by the way, the Democrats, they wouldnt even think about not doing it. The only difference is theyd try and do it faster. Theres no way they would give it up. They had Merrick Garland, but the problem is they didnt have the election so they were stopped. And probably that would happen in reverse, also. Definitely would happen in reverse. So we won the election and we have the right to do it.

Hes right. If the Democrats controlled the Senate in 2016, Garland would be on the Supreme Court. And if the Democrats controlled the Senate right now, Barrett wouldnt stand a chance.

So much for politics not entering the Supreme Court discussion, eh? Fact is, its all politics. Clearly, we need to be choosing our Supreme Court justices differently, or perhaps we set term limits, or something. Right now, its a 100% political game.

Awesome.

So with that said, its time for the left to come to grips that Barrett is going to get confirmed, that the court will have a pronounced conservative tilt, and that Squees BFF  Brett Cavanaugh  is now almost certainly the potential pivot vote, which makes the left about as comfortable as attending a Proud Boys meeting wearing a pink hat and an Obama sweater vest.

But spending one more second worrying about it is pointless. In short: The left has zero choice but to take an L on this one. Which means 

Which means the United States Supreme Court  if it hears cases on gun rights, Obamacare, discrimination, abortion, and immigration  will almost certainly come down on the side of the conservative movement.

So what does this mean, exactly? How will this affect us?

Honestly, I dont expect much to change, outside of instead of conservative states screaming their rights are being trampled, the next 20 or so years will feature more progressive states saying it. But only on the national scale. In fact, I would expect the states rights rhetoric to start coming more from the progressive side of the fence. I mean, were all seeing states rights in action (or inaction) during the present coronavirus disaster, and well continue to see it going forward.

For instance: Is Roe v. Wade in danger of being overturned if a case gets to the Supreme Court? It certainly does. But do you think center-to-left state legislatures are all of a sudden going to ban abortion? Nope.

Same with gun rights and discrimination laws. Sure, perhaps the United States Supreme Court will take a more conservative view of these issues, but I dont expect New Jerseyans to ever be able to waltz into a gun store and buy an AK-47  nor do I ever think the owner of the gun store will be able to refuse to sell you an AK-47 because youre gender fluid.

One thing, however, bears mentioning: Just because Coney Barrett has conservative bona fides does not make her a bad Supreme Court justice. She is obviously brilliant and, despite the politicization of the Supreme Court, I still have faith that whoever the nine members on it are have the nations best interests at heart. Some of us may not always agree with their interpretation of the law, but  well, but were not United States Supreme Court justices, and its not really our position to take.
CHICAGO - Its almost as if hes writing a personal check.

In recent days, President Donald Trump has promised millions of Medicare recipients that  thanks to him  theyll soon be getting an incredible $200 card in the mail to help them pay for prescriptions. Hes called himself the best thing that ever happened to Puerto Rico, while releasing long-stalled aid. Trump has also taken to showcasing the $28 billion he gave to farmers hard hit by the trade war with China.

What Ive done for them, with the $28 billion for the farmers, and that includes you, Trump told supporters at a rally in Newport News, Virginia, last week  without mentioning that the aid was needed to offset the hit farmers took from his trade standoff with China. That includes tobacco, that includes a lot of things, but that includes your farmers.

As Trump talks up heaps of federal aid flowing to key constituency groups in the lead-up to the November elections, he rarely mentions Congress role in the appropriation of those dollars.

The president was in the battleground state of North Carolina last week when he proposed the idea of $200 drug cards for Medicare recipients  a move that comes as polls show slipping support for the president among older voters. Government officials say key details, like when and how the drug benefit would be paid for, are still being fleshed out.

I will always take care of our wonderful senior citizens, Trump said. Joe Biden wont be doing this.

Earlier in September, Trump used a rally in northern Wisconsin, a battleground he narrowly won in 2016, to announce another $13 billion in pandemic aid to assist farmers. That came after Trump announced the release of $13 billion in assistance to repair years-old hurricane damage in Puerto Rico and pledged to restore its economy.

He didnt mention his past harsh comments about the island and its leaders as he looks to curry favour with Puerto Rican voters elsewhere in the U.S., particularly in crucial Florida.

Im the best thing that ever happened to Puerto Rico, Trump said without a trace of irony. No one even close.

On Wednesday, he spoke in personal terms at a rally in Duluth, Minnesota, about his decision to sign an executive order declaring a national emergency in the mining industry. Its a step he said would provide billions of dollars to the industry and bring countless jobs to the states Iron Range.

I will always protect Minnesota, said Trump, who is looking to add the historically Democratic-leaning state to his win column on Nov. 3. Its been very good to me.

Trump was also happy to have his name splashed on checks when the U.S. Treasury earlier this year sent economic stimulus payments to millions of Americans struggling during the coronavirus. It was the first time a presidents name appeared on any IRS payments, whether refund checks or other stimulus checks that have been mailed during past economic crises.

Similarly, the U.S. Department of Agriculture is including letters signed by the president in boxes of surplus food being distributed around the country to people in need.

Greg Trotter, a spokesman for the Greater Chicago Food Depository, said that some food pantries and other non-profits in the Chicago area have decided to remove the letters before distributing the packages to clients, some were troubled by the letters but dont have the time or manpower to remove them, and others were not bothered by the inclusion. He said it was inappropriate to include the letters in the boxes so close to the election even if the tone was not overtly political.

The master marketer is marketing himself through federal resources, said Rep. Marcia Fudge, D-Ohio, one of several lawmakers to raise concerns about the presidents letter to the USDA. She added: It is no different than when he did the stimulus checks earlier this year...To me, its nothing but politicking, and I think its illegal.

White House officials said the criticism is unmerited, saying the president is only trying to distribute information to help Americans during the pandemic.

Ross Baker, a congressional scholar at Rutgers University, said Trumps approach to legislation is much like his style in the real estate world: In the end, he always wants to plaster his name on the finished product.

Its Donald the entertainer, Baker said. Its one of the things that he learned from reality television that hes applied pretty directly to the power of the presidency.

Trump isnt the first incumbent president to work the levers of government to his advantage ahead of an election.

As Democrat Barack Obama ramped up his 2012 reelection campaign, he used the backdrop of the battleground state of New Hampshire to press Republicans to get behind an extension of a temporary payroll tax cut that was set to expire.

Republican George W. Bush travelled to Iowa weeks before the 2004 election to sign legislation that lowered taxes for millions of middle-class Americans. But even as Bush highlighted the legislation in a state that he would narrowly win, he also thanked Democratic lawmakers for their support of the bill.

Ahead of the 1996 Democratic National Convention, Bill Clinton signed a 90-cent hike of the minimum wage into law, legislation to improve access to health insurance and a controversial bill overhauling the welfare system as he sold himself to the electorate as a pragmatist governing from the middle.

Matt Bennett, an aide in the Clinton White House who served on both of the former presidents White House campaigns, said there is little evidence that the last-second entreaties of past presidents had significant impact at the polls. And hes doubtful there are many voters whom Trump is trying to reach who havent already made up their minds.

The cake is pretty baked at this point, Bennett said.

Trump in recent weeks has taken the election-year courting of key constituencies to a new level as he uses rallies and official White House events for showy pronouncements, sometimes at odds with the facts.

One frequent boast is that his signing of a China trade deal earlier this year is straightening out decades of imbalance between the two nations. In fact, Commerce Department data shows that U.S. exports to China were down in the first seven months of this year.

Ive taken in billions and billions of dollars from China, Trump recently told reporters. No other president has done what Ive done. Ive given much of it to the farmers.

Even when hes not doling out money, Trump  in the final lap before Election Day  has taken to dangling other benefits for key voter groups.

In Atlanta on Friday, Trump announced second-term plans to increase access to capital in Black communities by almost $500 billion and make a federal holiday of Juneteenth, the commemoration of the emancipation of enslaved people in the U.S.

Last week, after being asked about whether hell endorse Republican Sen. Susan Collins of Maine, Trump launched into a long aside about his efforts to help the states lobster industry. He visited Maine in June to spotlight his administrations efforts to get the European Union to lower tariffs on Maine lobsters.

What Ive done for Maine is what nobody has done, Trump said.
The cathedral in Odense, Denmark, has for nine centuries held the relics of the Danish King St. Canute the Holy and his brother Benedikt. They were both murdered here in AD 1086, and just a few years later, in AD 1100, King Canute was sanctified.

The history of the relics has been that of turmoil at times, varying from initial worship of the Catholic believers to being walled up and hidden after the protestant reformation in AD 1536.

Since the 19th century the brothers' wooden shrines have been on display in the cathedral as heritage objects of national importance.

Now, researchers have examined some of the textiles in the two shrines. They conclude that King Canute's shrine no longer holds the precious silk textiles placed in it at his enshrinement.

In stead it is likely that the textiles from his brother's shrine at some point have been moved to King Canute's shrine.

The shrines of Canute and Benedikt have long been a puzzle in Danish history. They both contain several well-preserved textiles of silk and linen and the question is: How old are the textiles and what is their historical context?

According to historical sources, both brothers were covered in valuable textiles when enshrined. Sources have described how Canute's shrine in AD 1536 was lined with beautiful and rare silk.

Decades later, both shrines were walled up in the cathedral, placed vertically so that the bones and textiles lay in a heap at the bottom of each shrine, and hereafter there are no reportings of the precious textiles in King Canute's shrine when it was re-examined in AD 1694 and AD 1833.

- It is tempting to suggest that the king's precious textiles have been stolen at some point after AD 1582, says professor and an expert in archaeometry, Kaare Lund Rasmussen from University of Southern Denmark.

When the two shrines were removed from their walled up hiding places and prepared to be put on display in 1874, researchers at the time were puzzled by the absence of valuable textiles in King Canute's shrine - his brother Benedikt had the more valuable textiles - and they declared themselves unable to judge in which of the shrines the found fabrics belonged.

They decided to move the best textiles from Benedikt's shrine to King Canute's shrine, so that he could be presented with the most beautiful, most precious textiles when on display under a glass lid. Professor Kaare Lund Rasmussen and colleagues have performed chemical analysis of the textiles in both shrines and conclude that they are of the same age, and that their age fit with AD 1086, when the two brothers were enshrined.

- Put together with historical sources this convinces us that today, King Canute lies in his shrine with what is actually his brother's burial textiles, says professor Kaare Lund Rasmussen.

Among the textiles, intended for Benedikt but later placed with Canute, are a pillow with birds and a textile called the Eagle Silk.

- They are exquisite and beautiful, but King Canute's textiles must have been even more exquisite, says Kaare Lund Rasmussen.

According to senior researchers at the Danish National Museum, Ulla Kjr and Poul Grinder-Hansen, the luxurious silks may have been sent from South Italy to the shrines in Denmark by King Canute's widow, Edel, possibly brought home by Canute's half-brother, King Erik 1. Ejegod.

At the time of Canute's canonization and enshrinement, silk weaving in Europe was not yet established outside the boundaries of the Byzantine Empire and silk was both a precious and much-coveted import article.

###

The study is published in the journal Heritage Science. Other Danish contributors to the scientific paper are Ulla Kjr and Poul Grinder-Hansen, senior researchers at the Danish National Museum, and conservator Morten Ryhl Svendsen from the Royal School of Conservation in Copenhagen.
Two Indian web series, Four More Shots Please! and Delhi Crime have received nominations at the International Emmy Awards this year. Among artists, Arjun Mathur has bagged a Best Actor nomination for his performance in the web series Made In Heaven.

Artists who were a part of these shows shared their experiences on being recognized at an international level with these nominations. Rasika Dugal, who plays a police officer in Delhi Crime hopes that this will open up avenues for everybody, not just in India, but also internationally.

"I don't know what it will do to my career; I hope that it opens up more avenues. But then, when you have worked as an actor for so many years, you realise that your expectations have to be managed a little bit," said Rasika, in an interview with Hindustan Times.

"I hope it opens up avenues for everybody. And not just here, even internationally. There is so much great work happening internationally as well," she added.

For those who don't know, Delhi Crime is a crime drama series, based on the 2012 Delhi gang rape incident. The web series also stars Shefali Shah, Adil Hussain and Rajesh Taliang. The series has been nominated under the Best Drama category at the Emmys.

When asked if the project felt like a risk before signing, Rasika said, "I have always been a risk taker, very honestly in the beginning of my career, I didn't really have a choice. I signed on to projects which were a risk because I didn't have any other option. But later on my primary desire criteria has been that it should appeal to me in some way and is a story I want to be a part of. For me taking a risk would be signing on a project which I am not in complete agreement with."

ALSO READ: Shefali Shah's Delhi Crime Bags Nomination In Best Drama Series Category At Emmy Awards 2020

ALSO READ: Arjun Mathur On Bagging An Emmy Nomination: Did Not Receive Validation On Home Turf For Years


For us, the risk is losing really valued and important cast and crew members  because they cant make ends meet.

Michael Cassel, producer of such hits as Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, is among many warning of the effects of this weeks cuts to JobKeeper on the theatrical world, especially in Melbourne where the return of live performance remains a tentative hope for an uncertain date.

Theres still no clarity on reopening, Cassel says. The challenge in being on JobKeeper on reduced amounts is it becomes [harder] to keep up with mortgage repayments, family costs and lifestyle.

A scene from Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

The federal government made no exception for Victorians in the JobKeeper cuts, despite the pandemic second wave putting the state weeks, if not months, behind other states on its return to theatres (and many other workplaces).
A Lithuanian model has avoided jail again, this time for a string of burglaries, just one year after she was blasted by a judge for acting like a 'bored princess'.

Jonita Ragaisyte, 29, pleaded guilty to 12 charges including trespassing, stealing bank cards and dishonestly obtaining property in Melbourne Magistrates Court on Tuesday.

Ragaisyte visited her rented storage unit at Port Melbourne Storage on Lorimer Street along with three unknown men at 1.50am on February 16.

Jonit Ragaisyte, 29, pleaded guilty to 12 charges including trespassing, stealing bank cards and dishonestly obtaining property in Melbourne Magistrates Court on Tuesday

Ragaisyte visited her rented storage unit at Port Melbourne Storage on Lorimer Street along with three unknown men at 1.50am on February 16

CCTV footage caught the group going in and out of the storage space for two hours, the Herald Sun reported.

Throughout the night they got into the office of a used car dealership at the same facility and allegedly stole credit cards and car keys, according to police.

The group left just after 4am in a car that was stolen from Joe Vella Used Cars.

Ragaisyte then used the stolen cards to purchase a phone, credit, cigarettes, a lighter and toiletries at Coles in Port Melbourne.

She then drove around St Kilda and used the cards on a shopping spree.

After that she got a room at the Aura Apartment on the seventh floor where detectives later found she had broken into another room while guests were out.

Ragaisyte used the stolen cards to purchase a phone, credit, cigarettes, a lighter and toiletries at Coles in Port Melbourne

The hotel guests later came back to find their door still locked but a Nike backpack, clothing and toiletries were missing.

Police say the only way into the room would have been through the balcony.

Ragaisyte pleaded guilty to the high-rise hotel robbery in June 2019 and her co-accused was also charged but is yet to face court.

Magistrate Hayley Bate told Ragaisyte's lawyer in court that she had been 'assessed at a high risk of re-offending'.

Ragaisyte was handed a 12-month community corrections order and will have to complete 100 hours of community work.

She will also undergo ongoing drug, alcohol and mental health tests.

Ragaisyte was handed a 12-month community corrections order and will have to complete 100 hours of community work

In September last year Ragaisyte avoided jail after she admitted to possessing meth, and was given only a two-year good behaviour bond.

She admitted possessing GHB-alternative butanediol as well as n-ethylhexedrone, a drug similar to methamphetamine.

Police found an 'Aladdin's cave' of drugs at the Docklands apartment the 27-year-old shared with her then-boyfriend Cemre Volkan in 2017.

The 27-year-old was also caught with meth she forgot was in her Chanel handbag while visiting her bodybuilder-turned-drug trafficker partner in prison.
"Young people have the ability to determine the outcome of this election," said Chris Miller, Head of Global Activism Strategy for Ben & Jerry's. "They represent 37% of US voters, the single largest group of eligible voters, and everything they care about is on the ballotracial justice, access to healthcare, climate change, the economy, LGBTQ rights. There is so much at stake, and it's not just at the top of the ticket. We're working hard to encourage young people to make their vote their voice this November."

As part of their larger get-out-the-vote campaign, Ben & Jerry's is sweetening the deal by offering free waffle cones to people who pledge to vote for justice. In participating Ben & Jerry's Scoop Shops nationwide, fans can check their voter registration status, register online, and get local election information. Fans who pledge to vote can get a free upgrade to a freshly baked waffle cone, no matter the size of their original ice cream order.

The relaunch of the Limited Batch Justice ReMix'd is also part of Ben & Jerry's overarching effort to create change using democracy's most powerful, non-violent tools. The company issued a strongly worded warning that We Must Dismantle White Supremacy after George Floyd was killed by Minneapolis police officers in May, and launched a podcast about the history of racism in America in September. Ben & Jerry's continues to work with activists and non-profit partners like Advancement Project National Office and Color of Change to support those on the frontlines of the struggle for justice.

More recently, the company installed an exhibit at its Waterbury ice cream factory honoring the life and legacy of voting rights champion, the late Congressman John Lewis. On October 10th, Ben & Jerry's will sponsor the first-ever broadcast performance on Adult Swim by hip-hop powerhouse, Run The Jewels, with a strong call to action to young people to turn out and vote in record numbers in this election.

And for the first time in the company's 42-year history, Ben & Jerry's will close all of its company-owned and operated facilities in the US, including its corporate headquarters and ice cream factories, on Election Day to encourage its employees to vote. The company supports the idea of making Election Day a national holiday.

"The number one reason people give for not voting is not having enough time," said Miller. "People should not have to choose between their job and their civic duty, especially this year. This election is just too important."

Justice ReMix'd is available again as a Limited Batch flavor at Scoop Shops and on store shelves nationwide, with a suggested MSRP of $4.99. To learn more about Ben & Jerry's, visit: benjerry.com

About Ben & Jerry's

As an aspiring social justice company, Ben & Jerry's believes in a greater calling than simply making a profit for selling its goods. The company produces a wide variety of super-premium ice cream, yogurt and sorbet using high-quality ingredients. Ben & Jerry's incorporates its vision of Linked Prosperity into its business practices in a number of ways including a focus on values-led sourcing. In 2015 the company completed its transition to using entirely non-GMO (genetically modified organisms) ingredients by source as well as to fully source Fairtrade-certified ingredients wherever possible, which benefits farmers in developing countries. Ben & Jerry's products are distributed in 35 countries in supermarkets, grocery stores, convenience stores, franchise Ben & Jerry's Scoop Shops, restaurants and other venues. Ben & Jerry's, a Vermont corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of Unilever, operates its business on a three-part Mission Statement emphasizing product quality, economic reward and a commitment to the community. Ben & Jerry's became a certified B Corp in 2012. The Ben & Jerry's Foundation's employee-led grant programs totaled $3MM in 2019 to support grassroots organizing for social and environmental justice around the country.

SOURCE Ben & Jerry's
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Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 18:16:47|Editor: huaxia

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Chinese Ambassador to Namibia Zhang Yiming (L) and Namibia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah attend a donation handover ceremony of a batch of COVID-19 supplies in Windhoek, Namibia, on Oct. 1, 2020. (Xinhua/Wu Changwei)

WINDHOEK, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Namibia received a batch of COVID-19 supplies worth five million Namibian dollars (about 300,000 U.S. dollars) donated by the Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the occasion of China's 71st anniversary, at an event held Thursday in Windhoek.

The donation included 30,000 N95 masks, 10 oxygenators, 20 ventilators, and 100 thermometers, making this the fourth batch of COVID-19 supply donations from the Chinese government so far.

Speaking at the handover, Namibia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah conveyed warm congratulations to China as it celebrates its anniversary, stating that the donation comes at an opportune time as the two countries continue to strengthen diplomatic ties.

"This donation comes at the right time when China and Namibia are celebrating the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations," she said, adding that the donation is set to go a long way in combating the pandemic.

Speaking at the same occasion, Chinese Ambassador to Namibia Zhang Yiming said the friendly protocol arrangement demonstrates the friendly relationship and common determination to jointly fight the COVID-19 between China and Namibia.

"I would also like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude to Namibia's President Hage Geingob for his sincere sentiments and a firm commitment to the China-Namibia comprehensive strategic partnership," he added.

Zhang said since COVID-19 cases were recorded in Namibia, the Chinese government, sister cities, Chinese enterprises, and non-governmental charities have donated plenty of medical supplies to support Namibia's anti-pandemic efforts.

Meanwhile, Namibia's executive director of the Ministry of Health, Ben Nangombe, said the items Namibia received from China have gone a long way in assisting the country's health sector, be it through donated clinical materials or through telemedicine conferences.

According to the Chinese embassy's preliminary statistics, the total value of goods donated from the Chinese government, enterprises, and personnel since the outbreak in Namibia now stands at 52 million Namibian dollars. Enditem
GUALAN, Guatemala - About 2,000 Honduran migrants hoping to reach the United States entered Guatemala on foot Thursday morning, testing the newly reopened frontier that had been shut by the coronavirus pandemic.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 1/10/2020 (478 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Migrants attempt to cross the border from Corinto, Honduras, into Corinto, Guatemala, Thursday, Oct. 1, 2020. Hundreds of migrants walked from San Pedro Sula, Honduras to the Guatemala border, testing a well-trod migration route now in times of the new coronavirus. (AP Photo)

GUALAN, Guatemala - About 2,000 Honduran migrants hoping to reach the United States entered Guatemala on foot Thursday morning, testing the newly reopened frontier that had been shut by the coronavirus pandemic.

Guatemalas president quickly vowed to detain them and return them to Honduras, saying the migrants represented a threat to the health of Guatemalans amid efforts to contain the pandemic.

"The order has been given to detain all those who entered illegally, and return them to the border of their country," President Alejandro Giammattei said in a broadcast address to the nation. We will not allow any foreigner who has used illegal means to enter the country, to think that they have the right to come and infect us and put us at serious risk.

Giammattei issued an order that would suspend some constitutional rights in the provinces they were expected to pass through, apparently in order to facilitate detaining them.

Authorities had planned to register the migrants as they crossed earlier Thursday and offer assistance to those willing to turn back, but the group crossed the official border at Corinto without registering, pushing past outnumbered Guatemalan police and soldiers who made little attempt to stop them.

In one group were four teenagers, all friends and neighbours from San Pedro Sula, from which hundreds of migrants had set out the previous night. The teens decided to leave after seeing others organize on Facebook.

Guatemalan security forces try to keep back migrants from crossing the border from Corinto, Honduras, into Corinto, Guatemala, Thursday, Oct. 1, 2020. Hundreds of migrants walked from San Pedro Sula, Honduras to the Guatemala border, testing a well-trod migration route now in times of the new coronavirus. (AP Photo)

The youngest, 15-year-old Josty Morales, said he wanted to live the American dream and was looking for a way to support his 6-month-old son at home.

Theres no work. The necessity strangles you, he said.

Within hours of the border crossing, Guatemalan authorities reported the first migrant death. A person tried to climb aboard a moving flatbed trailer, but fell under its wheels. Authorities did not immediately provide any additional details.

Central American migrants began travelling in large groups in recent years, seeking safety in numbers and in some cases avoiding the cost of smugglers. Calls for a new migrant caravan to leave Oct. 1 had circulated for weeks on social media.

The odds of a large migrant caravan reaching the U.S. border, already low, have grown increasingly slim over the past year. Under pressure from the United States, Mexico deployed its National Guard and more immigration agents to break up attempted caravans last year. They dispersed large groups of migrants attempting to travel together in southern Mexico. Actually crossing into the U.S. legally is virtually impossible now with pandemic, and entering illegally is as difficult as ever.

The departure of the new group was reminiscent of a migrant caravan that formed two years ago shortly before U.S. midterm elections. It became a hot issue in the campaign, fueling anti-immigrant rhetoric. While the caravans draw attention, they really only account for a small fraction of the daily migration flow by small groups that pass unnoticed through Central America and Mexico.

By mid-afternoon the migrants who crossed into Guatemala on Thursday had strung out in small groups for miles (kilometres) along the highway, as some caught rides and others walked under the hot sun.

Migrants from Honduras stand in line waiting for aid during their journey to the United States-Mexican border, in Morales, Guatemala, Thursday, Oct. 1, 2020. Honduran migrants hoping to reach the U.S. entered Guatemala on foot Thursday, testing the newly reopened frontier that had been shut due to the new coronavirus pandemic. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo)

Christian Martinez, 19, saw leaving as a way out when few other options were apparent in Honduras. If we stay what is left for us is to become criminals because theres no way to survive, he said.

Already halfway to Guatemala City, Martinez and his companions had advanced on foot and with the occasional ride. They said they all carried masks but werent worried about the pandemic.

The larger group that set out Wednesday night appeared to be mostly young men, though there were the occasional small children being pushed in strollers.

At the border, Guatemalan officials were asking the migrants to provide documents showing a negative COVID-19 test  even though last week they said they wouldnt require a test for those spending less than 72 hours in the country.

But about 2,000 migrants hustled through without registering. In addition, AP journalists saw others crossing the border illegally near the formal crossing. There were no reports of violence.

Guatemala's military said it was establishing interior checkpoints to review migrants' documents. In the past, authorities have set up roadblocks deeper in the country to winnow down larger groups. A regional agreement allows citizens of Honduras to transit through Guatemala.

Governments throughout the region made it known they were watching Wednesday.

Mexicos immigration agency said in a statement that it would enforce safe, orderly and legal migration and not do anything to promote the formation of a caravan. The U.S. Embassy in Honduras said on Twitter Wednesday that migration to the U.S. was more difficult than ever right now  and more dangerous because of the coronavirus.

But the factors driving migrants to leave Central America certainly havent eased during the pandemic. As economies have suffered, there are ever fewer jobs to be had, and the struggle for families to put food on the table has only worsened. Some migrants also cited the ever-present high rate of crime.

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The U.N.s International Labor Organization said Wednesday that at least 34 million jobs have been lost in Latin America due to the pandemic. The ILO lists Latin America and the Caribbean as the worst-hit region in the world in terms of lost working hours, with a drop of 20.9% in the first three quarters of the year.

The flow of migrants north from Central America had slowed dramatically during the pandemic as countries throughout the region closed their borders. Most migrant shelters along the principal routes closed their doors to new arrivals as they tried to keep the virus from spreading to vulnerable populations. Mexico and the United States deported hundreds of migrants back to their home countries to try to empty detention centres.

Guatemala has now opened all of its borders, including the one with Mexico. But the U.S.-Mexico border remains closed for nonessential travel, and the U.S. government effectively shut down the asylum system at its southern border during the pandemic.

Mexico tried to bus asylum seekers stuck at its northern border to other parts of the country and back to their home countries. Mexico has typically offered migrants the opportunity to seek asylum there, but many have their minds set on the United States. Migrants are also likely to find it more difficult to find work in Mexico now as the economy is expected to contract 10% this year due to the impact of the pandemic.

___

Escalon reported from Corinto, Honduras. Associated Press writer Christopher Sherman in Mexico City contributed to this report.
Its really great to be cooking with fire again, said Zaragoza, whose familys restaurant is famed for its roasted goat. Thats how I learned to cook; when I worked with my dad (Juan, who founded the birrieria), my job was to stoke the fires so the goat went in at the right temperature.
A BP petrol station in Liverpool, 7 February 2018. (PHOTO: PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images)

By Serene Cheong and Alfred Cang

(Bloomberg) -- Four members of BP Plcs Singapore-based crude oil trading team left the company this week after more than two months of internal investigations into their involvement in several disputed deals, said people with knowledge of the situation.

A manager in BPs Asia trading team, two oil traders and an originator were placed on leave in July after their names were mentioned in court documents filed by banks that alleged suspicious transactions between other trading houses. They left the company on Sept. 30, said the people, who asked not to be identified as the information is private.

A BP spokesperson declined to comment on the matter. The affected staff held portfolios focused on the companys oil sales to Chinese customers, while the manager oversaw crude trading in the region. Details of the findings from investigations remain unclear.

Their departures come amid intense scrutiny of highly-opaque practices in Singapore, an oil-trading and financing hub, following the collapse of Hin Leong Trading (Pte) Ltd. and ZenRock Commodities Trading Pte Ltd.

Internal investigations by the oil major began after the company and BP personnel were mentioned in court filings by units of CIMB Bank Bhd. and Natixis SA against Hontop Energy (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. and Sugih Energy International Pte. Ltd. -- now renamed as Aeturnum Energy International Pte Ltd.

In some documents, their names appeared in email exchanges between trading counterparts, although the oil major said it never agreed to some of those purchases and no accusation of wrongdoing was ever made against it.

This week, BP also asked employees to stop using Chinas WeChat app on their work phones as a communication method with market participants and counterparts, the people said. The recommendation follows a similar move by U.S. oil major Chevron Corp. in late-September.

(Adds details on court filings.)

 2020 Bloomberg L.P.
A Congolese activist and four others have gone on trial in France accused of trying to steal an African funeral staff from a museum.

Emery Mwazulu Diyabanza allegedly took the 19th-century artefact from the Quai Branly museum in Paris last summer, saying he was claiming the continents stolen property.

Pressure is rising on the French government to return items that activists say were stolen during the pillage of Africa.

Mr Diyabanza, 41, defended what he called a "political act" and said it was about time that Africans, Latin Americans and other colonised communities took back stolen treasures.

He accuses European museums of making millions on artworks taken from now-impoverished countries such as Congo. The pole, which came from current-day Chad, should be among works returned to Africa, he said.

The five activists could face up to 10 years in prison if found guilty of attempted theft of a registered artwork.

But prosecutors have asked for a fine of 1,000 (907) for Mr Diyabanza and 500 each for his alleged accomplices.

After removing the artefact, he allegedly paraded it around the museum, claiming: Were taking it home.

Museum guards stopped the group and police detained them. After his arrest, Mr Diyabanza, sued the French state, accusing it of "theft and receiving state goods", the BBC reported.

He has staged three livestreamed museum protests in recent months  in Paris, Marseille and the Netherlands.

"We are the legitimate heirs of these works," he told the court. But he insisted that "appropriation wasn't my goal... The aim was to mark the symbolism of the liberation of these works."

He has previously criticised the French government's speed in returning artefacts to African nations.

A 2018 study commissioned by President Emmanuel Macron recommended that French museums give back works that were taken without consent, if African countries request them.

So far, France is preparing to give back 26 works of African art out of 90,000 works believed to be in French museums, most in the Quai Branly.

Emmanuel Kasarherou, director of the Quai Branly Museum said: The issue of restitution deserves a serious debate.

A verdict in the trial is expected next month.
Petoskey High School band directors, assistant principal remain on administrative leave

Superintendent Chris Parker addressed the situation regarding three band instructors and an assistant principal who are all currently on paid leave during Thursday's board of education meeting.
MIDDLETOWN  The Connecticut River Conservancy has participated in the annual Source to Sea Cleanup of the Connecticut River and tributaries across the four-state watersheds in New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts and Connecticut for 24 years.

This year, members of the Rotary Club of Middletown joined thousands of volunteers who helped make the water cleaner, river banks safer and wildlife happier during the month of September, according to a press release.
Over one billion users are reliant on the navigation app Google Maps for vital information about transporting from place to place. This is particularly functional when safety concerns are one of our top priorities. In order to help mitigate the prevalence of the pandemic, a "COVID layer" was introduced in Google Maps, a tool that displays critical data regarding COVID-19 cases in an area.

Aid to Planning Before Traveling

This will show people the COVID-19 case rates in local areas in order to aid in planning their journey in advance. This new update will make users aware of how the progression of COVID-19 in the varying locations to plan ahead before traveling.

New Function: Health Protection

Google Maps is a functional tool to avoid roads closed for construction or sticky traffic. Now, the app could also protect your health by displaying the novel coronavirus cases density by location.

According to the the Google Maps help page, if your location is affected by COVID-19, you opt for Google Maps to obtain relevant data on adversely affected places, reported Medical Daily.

Now, you could make more informed decisions before planning where you want to go, reported Syok. Here are the guidelines:

First, open Google Maps, click on the layers button and tap "COVID-19 info." Second, a one-week average of new COVID-19 cases for every hundred thousand people for the region you are searching for will be displayed. A label will say whether the cases are rising up or down. Lastly, color coding in the COVID Layer will help you conveniently specify the density of new cases in a region.

Also Read: How Could COVID-19 Affect Global Road Deaths?

The web-mapping service provides satellite imagery, street maps, aerial photography, route planning, and interactive panoramic views of streets among others. For this new feature, a user who is curious whether the place he or she will visit is a COVID-19 hotspot should use the app, reported Interaksyon.

Information used in the COVID-19 Layer originates from sources including Johns Hopkins Hospital and the New York Times. Such sources gather data from public health organizations including the World Health Organization (WHO), government health ministries, state and local health agencies and hospitals so the information is expected to be accurate.

The COVID-19 Layer will be disemminated soon globally. According to Google, while moving from place to place is complicated nowadays, their hope is that these Google Maps features will help people get to places safely and efficiently, reported The National.

It added that the COVID Layer will be distributed globally on Android and iOS this week.

Over the previous few months, this is just one of the several pandemic-related features introduced in Google Maps. Google has been experimenting in the combat against COVID-19.

The tech giant company has yet to provide a fixed date for the Google Map's feature's release and it has only given information about the COVID Layer through taking to Twitter.

Related Article: China, Russia, US Clash Over COVID-19 Responses



@ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
WASHINGTON, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- After a messy face-off between U.S. President Donald Trump and his Democratic rival Joe Biden late Tuesday, the Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD) is mulling changes for the next two 2020 presidential debates.

"Last night's debate made clear that additional structure should be added to the format of the remaining debates to ensure a more orderly discussion of the issues," the CPD said in a statement on Wednesday, adding that it "will be carefully considering the changes that it will adopt and will announce those measures shortly."

The nonpartisan body also said it is grateful to moderator and Fox News anchor Chris Wallace "for the professionalism and skill he brought to last night's debate and intends to ensure that additional tools to maintain order are in place for the remaining debates."

The statement came shortly after contentious exchanges and personal attacks between Trump and Biden overshadowed what was meant to be a policy debate, which drew wide criticisms of being messy and unpresidential.

"That was a hot mess, inside a dumpster fire, inside a train wreck," CNN anchor and correspondent Jake Tapper commented Tuesday night. "That was the worst debate I've ever seen. It wasn't even a debate."

The first debate was designed to fall into six 15-minute segments, each on major topics selected by Wallace. After the moderator opened each segment with a question, each candidate was supposed to have two minutes to respond before exchanging with the other candidate.

Trump, however, interrupted Biden on nearly every topic he was talking about and also claimed that the Democrat is not intelligent. Meanwhile, the former U.S. vice president hit back by calling his opponent a "liar" and a "clown" and told him to "shut up."

"Gentlemen! I hate to raise my voice," Wallace, who had to frequently intervene, said at one point. "I think that the country would be better served if we allowed both people to speak with fewer interruptions."

"I'm just sad with the way last night turned out," Wallace later said in an interview with The New York Times.

"I never dreamt that it would go off the tracks the way it did," he said. "I guess I didn't realize -- and there was no way you could, hindsight being 20/20 -- that this was going to be the president's strategy, not just for the beginning of the debate but the entire debate."

Speaking to reporters at the White House on Wednesday before leaving for campaign events in Minnesota, Trump said he thought "the debate last night was great" despite several instant polls showing most viewers thinking Biden did better.

"We got tremendous reviews on it," the president said. "I thought it was a great evening. It was an exciting evening. I see the ratings were very high ... By every measure, we won the debate easily last night. I think he was very weak."

During a stop on a campaign train tour of northeastern Ohio and western Pennsylvania on Wednesday, Biden, who is leading Trump in national and battleground state polls, accused the Republican of trying "everything to distract, everything possible."

"I just hope there's a way in which the debate commission can control the ability of us to answer the question without interruptions," he said.

An estimated 73.1 million people tuned in to watch the first Trump-Biden debate on Tuesday night, according to viewership data released by measurement company Nielsen.

A CBS News poll on Tuesday showed that the vast majority of likely voters planning to watch the debate had already decided on their candidate and were mostly watching to see how that candidate did.

"Clearly, the lines are drawn. I don't think either candidate took votes from the other. I have no idea how an undecided voter might react," Tom Waters, a soybean and corn farmer in Orrick, Missouri, told Xinhua. "It is hard to understand how our politicians can expect the people of the country to have much respect for them when they have no respect for each other. The best candidates for the job would never run under today's political environment."

Trump and Biden will have two more debates in October leading up to Election Day. Both campaigners have committed to attending them.

Next week, there will be a vice presidential debate between Vice President Mike Pence and Biden's running mate, U.S. Senator from California Kamala Harris.
by Austin Bay September 30, 2020

For decades, Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador -- in North American mediaspeak, AMLO -- styled himself as a gifted man of the political left who was ... well, special.

As a perennial eccentric outsider, AMLO promised to bring Mexico radical change and new prosperity if he were to become president. Why did he push the brave-new-world bravado? Faith question. His ultimate answer wasn't unswerving faith in utopian socialism. Ultimately, his answer reeked of faculty-club narcissism. Mexico will change "Because I, The AMLO, am Me!"

Failed, blood-drenched, socialist-fascist-communist rubble from Nazi Germany to Soviet Russia to Castroite Cuba to Saddamist Iraq to contemporary Chavista Venezuela -- for that matter, to 2020 Seattle, Portland and Minneapolis -- had their murderous births in utopian socialist garbage and "specially empowered strongman" narcissist humbug.

Which leads to this confession. I've followed Lopez Obrador for four decades, and he's exhibited all the loon characteristics except for one: AMLO never struck me as a killer. Instead of a Castro killer or a Mao murderer, AMLO had the cut of a nutty populist professor enthralled by his own rhetoric. Moreover, he managed to express a basic truth shared by millions of Mexican citizens: From his gut, he insisted Mexico's political system is corrupted by violent criminal cartels, a complicit political class on the take, and billionaire elites living the lux life in fortress haciendas protected by special ops mercenaries and crooked cops.

Read that last sentence again. If you don't think it's accurate, you don't know Deep State Mexico.

Now this column must sketch the Iguala massacre of Sept. 26, 2014, because it is historically complex.

Never heard of it? Listen up close, for it is a lesson in the systemic destructiveness of Impunity and how Deep State Mexico savages Mexicans.

In July 2018, when AMLO won an overwhelming victory in Mexico's presidential election, his MORENA political party broke with the Mexican left and center-left. The political realignment and the electoral victory demonstrated his political savvy.

Perhaps that was the first hint I ever had that AMLO wasn't a total joke. The second came two days after he was inaugurated in December 2018. AMLO posed for a photo with the parents of one of the 43 students from Ayotzinapa Rural Teachers' College in the Guerrero state who went missing on Sept. 26, 2014 (were abducted and killed). He promised he would establish a truth commission to answer the questions that former President Enrique Pena's administration had failed to answer.

AMLO's promise put his administration on the line. And I wrote that in a December 2018 column.

Impunity -- that's the deep issue. For disenchanted Mexican citizens, "impunity" means injustice embedded within their nation's governing institutions and society. It expresses deep disgust with political and economic leaders who escape responsibility for their crimes.

Impunity directly connects to the Iguala mass murders. The students were slaughtered. Bodies and human remains kept appearing -- but only low-level actors were arrested.

In 2015, independent investigators concluded the Pena government's investigation was flawed. However, Pena was still president. Impunity: The judicial system did not challenge the lies he and his minions spun.

On Sept. 26, 2020, AMLO's administration kept its promise when Attorney General Alejandro Gertz Manero issued 25 new arrest warrants for individuals involved in the 2014 massacre. Gertz and his office noted that the new warrants included members of the federal police and Mexican military. The new warrants implicate the highest levels of Mexican law enforcement and, ultimately, Enrique Pena himself, for police and the military were involved.

Gertz bluntly accused former President Pena's administration of a massive cover-up, a "manipulation" and "a massive media trick." One of his prosecutors added that the new warrants target "the intellectual and material authors of the disappearance." AMLO told Mexican media: "The truth, the authentic truth, has to be known. That's the commitment."

Thank you, sir.

Unfortunately, privileged-elite impunity isn't unique to Mexico. Read the authentic truth contained in U.S. Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe's recent document release. The FBI and CIA knew former CIA Director John Brennan and Democrat Hillary Clinton's 2016 presidential campaign concocted the "Trump-Russia collusion" lie. A corrupt American press promoted the story -- a media trick.

Truth makes a difference in AMLO's Mexico. Will it make a difference in the U.S.?
WASHINGTON  The scorching first debate between President Donald Trump and Democratic nominee Joe Biden caused heartburn among some of the president's allies but little movement toward a new strategy as aides prepare for the next round in Miami, several Republicans close to the campaign told USA TODAY.

Trump's insult-laced, interruption-heavy approach Tuesday night soured some voters, preliminary polling showed, and allowed Biden to call attention to the president's chaotic style. But Trump has long focused on firing up his core supporters. By that metric, some Republicans said, his performance may have helped more than hurt.

"There's always a lot of second-guessing within a campaign  and plenty of polls say Trump's demeanor is a 'road closed' sign to swing voters  but Trump's not going to hit the exit," predicted longtime Republican donor Dan Eberhart, who has given to Trump's campaign. "He's just going to press the accelerator deeper into the floor."

Stump: Trump returns to campaign trail with Minnesota rally after widely panned debate

Viewers: Trump-Biden debate ratings fall 13% from 2016's record-setting first debate

Both candidates claimed victory after the 90-minute slugfest, in which Trump not only scrambled with Biden but also repeatedly drew moderator Chris Wallace into the mix. The president told supporters at a rally in Minnesota the next night that he "took the fight to Biden" and assured them that "all of us won big."

A Politico/Morning Consult poll Thursday found that half of voters who watched the debate say Biden outperformed Trump compared with 34% who say the president did better. A CNBC/Change Research poll found 53% of likely voters say Biden did a better job versus 29% for Trump.

Trump and Biden are scheduled to square off again in Miami on Oct. 15, then meet for a final time in Nashville on Oct. 22. The debate-turned-brawl in Cleveland prompted the Commission on Presidential Debates to announce it would apply "additional tools" to enforce its rules.

Story continues

Some critics want moderators to be able to shut off microphones to prevent the candidates from talking over each other. The commission has yet to spell out what changes it is considering.

Trump suggested on Twitter Thursday that he might not agree to rule changes. If he objects to the format, he would have the option of boycotting the final two debates. His aides did not rule out that possibility.

President Donald Trump claims he won the first presidential debate on Sept. 29 in Cleveland.

Too hot?

Warning flags about Trump's debate performance in Cleveland began waving even before Trump boarded Air Force One for the return flight to Washington, as a number of Republicans openly criticized him for not directly condemning white supremacists  an issue the White House was still working to clean up. Others questioned his confrontational approach.

GOP reaction: Republicans say Trump should have condemned white supremacists

Former Sen. Rick Santorum, R-Pa., described Trump as "hot" on CNN and said he "overplayed" his hand minutes after the debate ended. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who helped prep Trump for the debate, offered a similar assessment on ABC, saying Trump came in "too hot." Conservative radio host Rush Limbaugh said he felt Trump "undermined his own strategy" in the feisty debate.

Trump senior campaign aide Jason Miller demurred on a question about Christie's criticism during a call with reporters on Thursday, saying the former governor is an "important part of the team" and is "never shy about voicing his opinion."

Christie did not respond to a request for comment.

Several Republicans privately expressed dismay at Trump's performance because his nonstop interruptions meant Biden was given little space to make a gaffe, defend his positions or make some other self-inflicted wound. One Republican strategist who spoke on the condition of anonymity to offer a frank assessment of the president's performance said Trump would have been better off letting Biden be Biden.

"Tuesday was a missed opportunity," the strategist said.

Another White House ally, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said Trump needs to "dial it back" in the next debate but questioned whether he would be able to do that.

"Trump's personality is baked in," the person said.

Trump campaign officials declined to answer specific questions about future strategy, though some predicted the town hall format of the next presidential debate would shift the dynamic. It's one thing to be combative with an opponent or a well-known network anchor but something else to hector voters asking questions, they said.

During his town hall appearance last month on ABC, Trump was mostly deferential to voters posing tough questions on the pandemic and race relations. He did interrupt Ellesia Blaque, a Kutztown University professor who quizzed Trump on his plans to protect Americans with preexisting health conditions.

"Please stop and let me finish my question, sir," Blaque said in an exchange that was replayed for days on cable television.

Blaque told CNN, "I'm going to vote for Biden."

President Donald Trump and Joe Biden clashed over COVID-19, crime and election integrity during the first presidential debate.

Wanted: Humor and finesse

While voting is well underway, Trumps most effective strategy is to take a page from his playbook four years ago and focus on disqualifying his opponent, said Alex Conant, a Republican strategist who helped prepare Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., for his debates against Trump during the 2016 Republican primary race.

Trump was relentless in his attacks on Hillary Clinton as a "crook" and a creature of the Washington "swamp" he pledged to drain. Debating Biden, Conant said, Trump is "literally all over the map," attacking his intelligence, his family and his record.

"He needs to settle on a consistent line of attack," Conant said.

Another part of Trumps 2016 success was his sense of humor and showmanship  qualities Republicans told Conant the president lacked in Ohio.

He was really tough, but he was also pretty funny at times, and he looked like he was enjoying it, Conant said of Trump in 2016. At the first debate this year, he just came across so angry. If he could crack a joke and get people to laugh at Joe Biden, that is going to be much more effective than just the nonstop vitriol."

Bickering over the potential for new debate rules set off a last-minute game of chicken between the Trump campaign and the commission Thursday. Biden campaign officials said the Democrat will attend the next debate, even as some critics questioned the need for additional exchanges.

"Why would I allow the Debate Commission to change the rules for the second and third Debates when I easily won last time?" Trump tweeted Thursday, hours after White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany declined to commit that Trump would continue to take part in the debates.

Trump aide Miller said "we do not want any changes" to the debate rules. Though he said the president "planned" to attend subsequent debates, he did not directly answer a question about whether Trump would not appear if the commission followed through on any rule changes.

Frank Luntz, a veteran GOP pollster who conducted a focus group with independent voters during the first debate, said Trump is probably on safe ground being aggressive for at least part of the debate. The problem he faces, Luntz said, is when he continues that same combative approach for 90 minutes straight.

"Someone should have told the president that debates require finesse, not just raw power," Luntz said. "If Donald Trump does to the town hall what he did to Chris Wallace, he'll be booed on live television."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump must decide whether to change gears for next debate with Biden
BOYS TO MEN When Daniel Baker, a.k.a. Desus Nice, got a call from his agent, reps and lawyer out of nowhere in late September, he panicked. I was like, oh wow, the show mustve gotten canceled, he said in a three-way phone interview with Joel Martinez, a.k.a. the Kid Mero, his co-host on their late-night TV series, Desus & Mero. It scared the hell out of me.

But it turned out to be good news: Their debut book, God-Level Knowledge Darts, had hit the New York Times nonfiction best-seller list, at No. 13. You know when you get your Ph.D., youre like, Dont call me Mister, call me Doctor? Martinez asked. Im gonna go to the bodega later and when Papis like, Hey Papi! Im gonna be like, No no no. New York Times best seller.

A fitting reference for the Bronx comedy duo behind the Bodega Boys podcast, which recently released its 220th episode. This book is the extension of their on-air chemistry, the sucio humor and stoned, semi-washed wisdom that have made them famous far beyond the New York City borough where they grew up. To preserve their casual repartee in book form, Baker said, they wrote in a shared, living Google Doc, the authors and their editor all freestyling and feeding off of one anothers energy in real time. Plus, this way, whenever Baker or Martinez wrote something self-incriminating, their editor could flag it on the spot.

Given how much of the finished book is unprintable in The Times, its fun to imagine what could possibly have been cut. Many anecdotes mention what may or may not still be open cases, Baker explained. Thats why we say allegedly at least 1,000 times.
Supreme Court upholds revocation of authority of ex-deputy head of Moscow Commercial Court

 RAPSI, Vladimir Burnov

16:00 01/10/2020

MOSCOW, October 1 (RAPSI)  The Supreme Court of the Russian Federation on Thursday dismissed an appeal filed by ex-Deputy Chairperson of the Moscow Commercial Court Olga Aleksandrova against termination of her powers, the courts press service told RAPSI.

In July 2020, the the Higher Judges' Qualifications Board found that certain actions of Aleksandrova had harmed the reputation of a judge and diminished the authority of the judiciary after hearing her subordinate evidence that than Deputy Chair of the Moscow Commercial Court attempted to force her to pass a certain ruling in a dispute.

Aleksandrova denied any wrongdoing.




A man who allegedly trafficked his wife to India and stole more than $60,000 from her family faces 12 years in jail.

The 28-year-old from Darwin is accused of tricking his wife, 27, into flying to India alone in February 2019 by telling her the trip was to secure a US visa.

Police allege he was physically abusive and threatened the woman to gain access to her wages, bank account and take money from her family.

He was charged with one count of exit trafficking a person through deception in Darwin Local Court on Friday.

The 28-year-old from Darwin (pictured centre) is accused of tricking his wife, 27, into flying to India alone in February 2019 by telling her the trip was to secure a US visa

The man also allegedly gave false and misleading information to the Federal Court during divorce proceedings he initiated in January 2020.

Australian Federal Police began their investigation following a tip-off from the public.

The woman has since returned to Australia and is receiving support from police and the Red Cross.

Detective Superintendent Paula Hudson worked closely with the Department of Home Affairs to investigate this matter.

The man (left, with police) also allegedly gave false and misleading information to the Federal Court during divorce proceedings he initiated in January 2020

'This is a reminder that forcing someone to leave Australia using coercion, threats or deception is an offence under our laws, and Commonwealth human trafficking offences and penalties apply,' she said.

'Human trafficking, slavery and slavery-like practices are happening here in Australia and it is up to all of us to work together to protect people who are vulnerable to these exploitative crime types.'

The AFP received 223 reports of human trafficking, slavery and slavery-like offences between July 2019 and June 2020.
By PTI

LUCKNOW: Upset with the alleged gang-rape and murder of a 19-year-old Dalit woman in Hathras district of Uttar Pradesh and her forcible cremation subsequently, a Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court on Thursday summoned top government officials to the court.

A bench of justices Rajan Roy and Jaspreet Singh issued summons to the Uttar Pradesh additional chief secretary, director general of police and additional director general of police, asking them to be present before the court on October 12 explain the case.

ALSO READ: Amid Hathras outrage, two teenage sisters gang-raped in Rajasthan's Baran district

Taking suo moto cognisance of the September 14 gang-rape and subsequent death of the teenager, the bench also ordered the Hathras district magistrate and senior superintendent of police to appear before it.

The bench asked all officials to come prepared with all the relevant material and documents to apprise the court of their versions of the incident.

The court, which appeared especially upset over the police cremating the teen's body overnight allegedly forcibly in Hathras without her parent's consent, also asked officials to apprise the bench of the latest status of the probe into the alleged gang-rape and murder case.

ALSO READ: Forensic report shows that Hathras woman was not raped, say UP Police

The bench also asked the late teen's parent to come to the court to apprise it of their version of the incident and ordered the Hathras district administration to arrange for their travel to the court.
Quarterback Evan Murray at Warren Hills High School in Warren County, New Jersey, died Friday night after being injured during a varsity game.
Discerning Ghanaians Can See Clearly

No doubt, the incumbent president of the Republic of Ghana deserves another mandate to serve the good people of Ghana who were left at the mercy of crocodiles in the Lions den under the previous uncared for NDC administration. He has performed creditably in his first tenure as Ghanas president above the expectation of discerning Ghanaians who are not wearing wood glasses and for that matter believe strongly he has a lot in his sleeves to offer our dear nation and its citizenry. Looking at his exploits in leadership ever since he took the mantle from the erstwhile John Dramani Mahama led administration which caused majority of Ghanaians pain and agony through the ghost called Dumsor.

Ghana Blessed With A Vissionary And A Generational Thinker

Ghana in 2016 needed a great change to have a courageous and visionary leader who will have the plight of the citizenry at heart and will be ready to share the national cake evenly through a social intervention like the Free SHS policy meant for all BECE candidates. Ghanaians should be thankful to God for blessing them with a good and caring leader in the caliber of His Excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo who is a generational thinker that will assure them value for their votes cast. He has done what Napolean could not do ever since he assumed power and there is an old adage which says your good works will follow you wherever you go and like the Akan saying that goes like  Nea ope adee ako kotoko no yen di no aboro, Nea oforo dua pa no na ye pia no.

Free Shs Policy Laudable

The president has diligently served the good people of Ghana in truth and sincerity and it is only the doubting Thomass that commend him in their minds and heads for doing a yeomans job, but when they have the chance to talk on any platfom they claim he has not done anything as at a time when parents who cannot afford their wards SHS school fees have not been bothering them anymore. Another election year is just around the corner and it is befitting for Ghanaians to give Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo four (4) more years to do more as coming events cast their shadows and it will be suicidal for Ghanaian electorate to allow the NDC to throw dust into their eyes to change someone who promised them fish and has not given them stones.

Vissionary Leaders Can Do The Unthinkable

He is a man of valour, God fearing, honest, loving, caring, humble, kind, and open minded, sociable, approachable, trustworthy, compassionate and very respectful to both young, old, rich and the poor. Ghanaians who have had the chance to interact with him can attest to the fact that he is everybodys man. One special thing we should not lose sight of is that he resumed office at a time when the NDC had eaten all the meat leaving only the bones this left the former president no option than to go to IMF for a policy credibility or bailout which worsen the plight of Ghanaians. Surprisingly, when he assumed office he was under a tight IMF conditionality which prevented the NDC from employing our graduates and yet his good government was able to employ our unemployed university graduates because he dreams big.

Good Leaders Promises And Delivers

Its pathetic the NDC boast they are social democrats and it may interest Ghanaians to know that in their last eight (8) years in office had absolutely nothing to show as a social intervention policy to help reduce the burden of the good people of Ghana.His excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo has proven beyond all reasonable doubt that he is a perfect gentleman who promises and delivers to the good people of Ghana. His mandate is divine that is why God has guided him to stand firm to focus on his good governance and policy delivery in this difficult times when the whole world is battling with the common enemy known as SARS- Cov-2 which has caused loss of lives and jobs in the advanced countries that have the needed PPEs and other improved medical logistics for their frontliners. He has never tried to play on our intelligence by looking at our faces to tell us when it comes to election politicians must lie to get our votes.

The Youth Of Today Are The Future Generation

There is a clear and unstoppable divine signs and backing propelling the president till date and he has not accomplished his God-sent service to the good people of Ghana and he is not tired to serve the citizenry that is why he needs another 4-year term to do more. He believes that God in his infinite wisdom blesses people to be a blessing unto others that is why he has taken up the challenge to making sure every Ghanaian will have a feel of the national cake by using proceeds from our God-sent oil. I find it difficult to undertand his political opponents the NDC who claimed they brought the idea of Free SHS policy in Ghanas constitution turn aound to say it is not feasible just because they had no idea of how to fund it. Its disheartening when I hear the NDC communicators making noise about the current government using the Heritage funds in financing the Free SHS policy knowing very well the younger generation are the youth we see today and not the ones not yet born.

Compassionate And Sensitive Leadership

Ghana under the watch of the previous regime suffered a lot due to power crisis ( dumsor) where lots of companies collapsed leading to majority of Ghanaian employees being laid off. It may interest Ghanaians to know the story would have been different if this dreadful pandemic happened under the previous NDC yentie obiaadministration, the death toll will be high because his only option would be bringing our brothers and sisters studying in China back home. We had an insensitive leader who could not solve the power crisis but thought it wise to increase electricity bills as at the time we were in total darkness. Today we have a compassionate and sensitive leader who has seen the need to cushion the good people of Ghana in this difficult times by offering us free water without paying a pesewa till the end of the year that is a form of putting money into our pockets. He has also absorb 50% of the electricity bill his critics a benefitting and yet claiming there is no truth about it.

Some Projects Under One District One Factory

At this juncture it will be unwise if I dont let Ghanaians know some of the projects he has constructed in his first year in office that would have taken his political opponents more than fifteen (15) years to do because they cannot gather the courage to do it in this Covid-19 pandemic crisis. Surprisingly, the current NPP administration headed by Nana Akufo Addo has been able to set up lots of projects under One district, One factory and One Village One Dam. Potato Processing factory at Gomoa, Kwahu Organic Ginger Factory, Fertilizer Producing Factory Suhum and Dahwenya, Tomato Processing Factory- Shai Osudoku, Multi Fruit Processing Factory Sabin Akrofuom, Ekumfi Pinneaple Juice and Adaklu Rice Factory. To mention but only a few are the Pwalugu Multipurpose Dam, 439 Small earth dams are under construction and a community-owned irrigation policy and rehabilitating schemes in the North and Afram Plains has attracted massive effort and resulted in developing a holistic plan to provide farmers and hoseholds, especially in the North access to water all year round.

The Battle Still Remains The Lords

Upon all the good things he has done so far for Ghanaians he has never blown his own horn but has kept silent and want the projects to speak for themselves because they are eye- marking.The good service and works done so far by the sitting president and his abled apostles talks about one thing that is renew my mandate for another four (4) years for me and my team to accomplish my divine mission for mother Ghana and its citizenry. Voting for him alone makes his mandate and vision incomplete that is to say as Ghanaians renew his mandate so shall they vote for all his Parliamentary candidates who have got the partys blessings and not the independent candidates whose agenda will draw the party backwards. There is an Akan saying which goes like  Se afa ne afa nka a na enkyere se abontenefuour mbefa nko. Victory 2020 is assured in the spiritual realm and it will be made manifest physically since the battle still remains the Lords battle. INSHA ALLAH Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo and NPP will be the head and not the tail.
Tennessee has given more than $170 million in federal relief funds to businesses struggling to survive during the coronavirus pandemic, but top state officials arent saying exactly who is getting the money.

This is considered confidential taxpayer information, state Department of Revenue spokeswoman Kelly Cortesi wrote in an email to The Associated Press in response to a request to review the list of businesses that had received government checks since the program launched in early June. Payments for eligible businesses range from $2,500 to $30,000, depending on gross sales.

Cortesi cited a Tennessee statute that says the revenue department cant disclose information about individual taxpayers.

Earlier this year, Republican Gov. Bill Lee and other top state officials said about 28,000 Tennessee businesses would qualify for the program at the time it rolled out, claiming that the majority would likely be small businesses.

The program was funded by federal coronavirus relief funds to assist companies that had been hard hit by the pandemic. Since then, the program has been expanded to include 60 different types of businesses that could access the money.

Well continue to distribute federal resources prudently to address the pressing needs of Tennessee businesses to get our economy back on track, Lee promised in August.

Under the program, individual businesses dont have to apply for the money. Instead the state uses information available in its tax system to identify them and notifies them via letter or email. To get the funds, businesses must certify their information with the revenue department.

Because of the privacy statute cited by the state, there is no way for the public to determine how much assistance small businesses actually received. Neither is it possible to determine how many wealthy, well-connected companies benefited from the program.

According to the revenue agency, approximately 23,000 businesses have received some sort of payment as of Sept. 18. The deadline to receive payments is Tuesday. The original deadline of Sept. 25 was extended to allow more businesses to apply for the money.

Rather than publicizing company names, the state has released a breakdown of payments by county that only provides vague descriptions of the type of businesses that received the funds, such as tire dealers, hotels, and all other personal services.

Businesses in Davidson County, which encompasses Nashville, have received the most of the states 95 counties: more than $30 million. Those in Shelby County received $21.4 million; Knox County, $14.8 million; Hamilton County, $10.2 million; and Sevier County, $9.5 million.

The majority of the relief funding in these counties has gone to hotels, restaurants, beauty salons and bars. Yet in Shelby County, which includes Memphis, $1.7 million went to gasoline stations with convenient stores- more than the $1.4 million that has gone to hotels. In Davidson County, nearly $1.3 million has gone to musical groups and artists.

Meanwhile, other states have varied in their willingness to publicly release which businesses have received the federal coronavirus relief funds. In New Hampshire, officials not only disclose which businesses receive the money, they also reveal how much each received.

At the federal level, the Treasury Department in June released the names and some other details of recipients who were approved for $150,000 or more under the Payroll Protection Program.

While the government identified nearly 650,000 mostly small businesses and nonprofits that received assistance, a public release of some of the data showed that companies owned by celebrities and politicians, as well as private equity firms and large franchises, benefited from the program.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics COVID-19 Tennessee
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 1)  The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas on Thursday approved the request of the national government for another short-term loan worth 540 billion.

BSP Governor Benjamin Diokno said the Monetary Board granted advance credit to the Treasury two days after it settled the 300 billion it borrowed back in March.

Diokno earlier said the government sought the amount as budget support, hoping to plug the country's ballooning fiscal deficit due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The amount must be repaid to the central bank by December 29, 2020. The BSP is considered as the lender of last resort in the country.

President Rodrigo Duterte has repeatedly lamented lack of funds for emergency response measures as the global coronavirus crisis drags on.

RELATED: Duterte requires gov't agencies to report COVID-19 spending monthly
It's Black History Month  the perfect time to delve into the rich catalogue of plays and texts written by playwrights over the years (you can also do it all year round!)

And remember, if you're buying plays or audiobooks then, where possible, help support some of our wonderful independent publishers  providing a vital lifeline even when venues are closed.









Check out these texts and writers:

Jennifer Kidwell and Scott R Sheppard's devised Underground Railroad Game, which is about the legacy of slavery.

Janice Okoh's new play The Gift uses the real-life story of Sarah Bonetta Davies to explore the legacy of imperialism and race.

Selina Thompson's salt. had a number of runs and continues to be very relevant. It focusses on Afro-pessimism, the Black Atlantic, the forgetting of the UK's colonial history.

Rochelle Rose in Salt. at the Royal Court

 Johan Persson

The Whip  Juliet Gilkes Romero's 2019 play explores the way in which slavers were reimbursed after the abolition of slavery. It's being performed as an audio play later this month.

The works of August Wilson  Wilson is a prolific playwright that should go down as one of the greatest of the last century. His play, Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, is set to be released as a film on Netflix in December

Antoinette Nwandu's Pass Over, which recently had its UK premiere at the Kiln Theatre and was adapted into a film.

A lot of Anna Deavere Smith's work including Notes from the Field and Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992 is directly relevant to recent experiences of the Black community  especially ongoing protests and unnecessary killings.

debbie tucker green's work, including ear for eye, random, generations, hang and more are incredibly charged, vital texts.

Braden Jacobs Jenkins' An Octoroon, recently having its UK premiere, explores the legacy of slavery and how creatives tackle the issue in the present day.

Award-winning writer Jeremy O Harris has created waves with a number of new works in recent years, including Slave Play and Daddy.

Katori Hall's The Mountaintop, which won an Olivier Award when it first opened, is only one of her brilliant plays worth experiencing. We also spoke to Hall ahead of the UK premiere of Our Lady of Kibeho, which was nominated for an Olivier Award when it transferred to London.

Daniel Ward's The Canary and the Crow explores identity within both private education and, pertinently, UK drama schools.

Inua Ellams' Barber Shop Chronicles, which has toured a number of times and wowed. It follows a series of barber shops dotted across the world over the space of a single day to compare and contrast Black identities in different locations. His recent reimagining of Three Sisters at the National Theatre is also a blast.

Dael Orlandersmith's Until the Flood, based on the interviews she conducted in St Louis, in spring 2015, six months after the death of an 18 year-old African American black man Michael Brown who was shot down by a white police officer.

Lynn Nottage is the first (and remains the only) woman to have won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama twice, and her plays are a magnificent proof of what theatre can achieve to inform others. Intimate Apparel, Ruined, By the Way, Meet Vera Stark and Sweat are each worth pouring over.

The Canary and the Crow

 The Other Richard

Morgan Lloyd Malcolm's Emilia explores the supposed "Dark Lady" of Shakespeare's sonnets. Its final speech is shatteringly good. Educational and galvanising.

Nouveau Riche's award-winning piece Queens of Sheba is excellent.

Jackie Sibblies Drury's Fairview is a Pulitzer Prize-winner of supreme excellence, exposing prejudices within both society and the arts community. She also explores the impact of European genocides in We Are Proud to Present a Presentation About the Herero of Namibia, Formerly Known as Southwest Africa, From the German Sudwestafrika, Between the Years 18841915.

Lorraine Hansberry's Les Blancs. Now 50 years old, the play's relevance has never wavered.

Ishmael Reed's The Haunting of Lin-Manuel Miranda deconstructs the ideas within Hamilton, offering an alternative perspective on the founding fathers as slave-owners and their attitudes towards Native Americans.

Jeff Stetson's The Meeting imagines a meeting between Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X during the civil rights movement.



 Marc Brenner

Malcolm X also reappears in Kemp Powers' One Night in Miami, which imagines the conversation during a real meeting between the activist, Jim Brown, Cassius Clay and Sam Cooke. It is about to be released in cinemas.

Michael R Jackson's musical A Strange Loop won the Pulitzer Prize following its run last year. It charts the life of "a gay, black writer" and the cast recording is special.

Cassiopeia Berkeley-Agyepong and Simone Ibbett-Brown lambast the presence of racism in the arts industries in Shuck 'n' Jive, which had a powerhouse turn at the Soho Theatre.

Temi Wilkey's The High Table. Wilkey recently won a Stage Debut Award for her recent piece, which explores the intersection between LGBTQ identity and Nigerian ancestry.

Of course, there are score more  so please get in touch on [email protected] for any suggestions and we will add them to the list.
Space age firefighting technologies are being trialled in a $6 million project by the Australian National University and Optus to investigate use of satellite warnings and water-bombing drones.

Satellites, long-range infra-red monitoring, remote-controlled drones and autonomous drones will be used in a four-year program to be partnered with emergency services.

Robotics expert Professor Rob Mahony, who is working on the bushfire warning and extinguishing system, with an autopilot glider that can be remotely guided to water bomb fires. Credit:Jamie Kidston / ANU.

The aim is to detect fires within moments of ignition and use machines to extinguish them before they grow too big to control.

Australian National University vice chancellor Professor Brian Schmidt said the new system was "would attack fires before they grow".
Bill Would Allow Real-World Test of Mental Health Alternative to Policing

In the wake of recent calls to shift responsibility for non-violent intervention away from police departments, lawmakers and community advocates around California are calling on Gov. Gavin Newsom to sign AB 2054, also known as the CRISES Act.

CRISES is an acronym for Community Response Initiative to Strengthen Emergency Systems.

AB 2054 calls for the authorization of a pilot grant program that would allow community-based organizations instead of the police to respond in emergency situations, including incidents requiring mental health intervention, which often involve people experiencing homelessness.

Assemblymember Sydney Kamlager (D-Los Angeles), the author of AB 2054 and a member of the California Legislative Black Caucus, hosted a press conference September 22 featuring community advocates and family members of individuals who were killed by police officers while experiencing mental health crises.

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When police officers are sent to de-escalate mental health crises, these encounters sometimes turn violent. A 2015 Treatment Advocacy Center survey found that at least 1 in 4 people killed by law enforcement were suffering from acute mental illness at the time of their death. Also, a 2015 Police Executive Research Forum study revealed that police officers only receive an average of eight hours of mental health intervention training compared to nearly 60 hours of gun training that they undergo.

Interactions with police can induce terror in many people who historically have been traumatized by law enforcement. Too often, these interactions are deadly. Too often, people just want solutions to their problems. They just want an emergency or a crisis solved, but they are afraid to call the police because of the potential consequences, said Kamlager.

Addie Kitchen is the grandmother of Steven Taylor, a Black man who was killed in April 2020 by San Leandro police while going through a mental crisis and experiencing homelessness.

It took them 40 seconds to kill Stephen, 40 seconds. When that officer walked in and saw he was Black and homeless, he already had in his mind, what he needed to do. He didnt think about, you know, maybe let me step back, said Kitchen.

Kitchen also spoke about how Taylors death devastated her family, including his two sons.

Nobody in the world should have to go through losing someone  by the police. If he had died because he got hit by a car, that wouldnt have been so hard. But when the police  theyre supposed to protect us  are murdering us because were Black, because were poor, because were homeless, because were going through a mental crisis, we need help. We need help and we are praying that the governor will understand what were going through, said Kitchen.

Hali McKelvie spoke about her mother, Myra Micalizio, who was killed by a Butte County Sheriffs Dept. deputy in April 2018 while she was going through a mental health crisis. The interaction between Micalizio and the police was only 11 seconds long before she was shot 11 times.

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That law enforcement agency didnt show up to serve and protect that day. That law enforcement agency showed up and murdered my mother, who was in a mental health crisis. They took one look at her, put up a bias, and said this woman is a threat to society and its my call to kill her, McKelvie said.

Advocates also spoke about the community groups that have already been providing human crisis response in the state, such as Mental Health First in Sacramento, and their need for more funding.

This is community response to community crisis, and we are already doing this. We are on the ground. There are grassroots organizations like my own, but we are running these programs on shoestring budgets, out of the generous hearts of volunteers, because were clear that were tired of our community members dying, said Cat Brooks, co-founder of the Anti Police-Terror Project.

Lateefah Simon, Bay Area Rapid Transportation (BART) Board Director echoed that the community groups already doing the work need more funding.

AB 2054 is truly a love letter to possibility, an idea that communities can keep one another safe. That local community-based organizations and trained professionals in selected communities, if given the resources and the opportunity, can become an additional force to create safety, she said.

Gov. Newsom has until September 30 to sign AB 2054, and other bills the State Legislature has passed this year. If not, they automatically become law.
The results of the first-ever National Maternity Experience Survey, published this morning show that 85% of participants had either a good or a very good experience of maternity care in Ireland.

Most women who took part said that they were treated with respect and dignity, and had confidence and trust in staff.

The results for Letterkenny University Hospital show 122 responded to the survey, giving it a 45% participation rate.

Overall the local results showed 51% of respondents gave the hospital a 51% or very good rating with 23% marking them as good. Some 26% scored the hospital fair to poor.

Letterkenny University Hospital was one of the 19 participating hospitals.

Over 3,200 all over the country new mothers took part in this survey, which asked women about their recent experiences of Irelands maternity services  from antenatal care, through labour and birth, to postnatal care.

Overall the survey found that most women had a good experience of maternity care, though 15% did not. While many women said that they were treated with respect and dignity, and praised midwives and staff, there are several areas in need of improvement. Women commented that staff were often too busy to help them in the period shortly after birth, and that they did not receive the physical, mental and emotional supports that they needed at this time.



Results from Letterkenny University Hospital

Care while pregnant (antenatal care) (7.1 out of 10)

Care provided in the hospital and the community.

Ratings of 'care while pregnant (antenatal care)' were about the same as the national average. The highest-scoring question for this stage related to being treated with respect and dignity. The lowest-scoring question related to the receipt of information about changes in mental health while pregnant.

Care during labour and birth (8.3 out of 10)

Care provided in the hospital.

Ratings of care during labour and birth' were about the same as the national average. The highest-scoring question related to the involvement of a partner or companion during

labour and birth. The lowest-scoring question related to the involvement of women in decisions about care during labour and birth.



Care in hospital after the birth (7.2 out of 10)

Care provided in the hospital.

Ratings of 'care in hospital after the birth' were

about the same as the national average.The highest-scoring question related to being told who to contact after discharge. The lowestscoring question related to 'debriefing' and the opportunity for women to ask questions about their labour and birth after the baby was born.

Specialised care (9.1 out of 10)

Care provided in the hospital

70% of women said that they had a very good overall experience of the care their baby received in the neonatal unit in Letterkenny University Hospital, compared with 70%

nationally.

Feeding (7.9 out of 10)

Care provided in the hospital and the community

Ratings of 'feeding' were about the same as the national average. The highest-scoring question related to respect for decisions about how women wanted to feed their baby. The lowest scoring question related to support and encouragement provided to women with feeding their baby while in hospital.

Care at home after the birth (8.3 out of 10)

Care provided in the community

Ratings of 'care at home after the birth'were about the same as the national average. The highest-scoring question related to being treated with respect and dignity at home after the birth. The lowest-scoring question related

to the time spent by the GP practice nurse/ midwife discussing mental health at the six-week check-up.

"Extend what works well"

Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly said what is clear from the survey is that womens experiences of maternity services are overwhelmingly positive, and it is important that they now extend what works well, right across the system.

It is also clear that some women had experiences which were not so positive.

"It is equally important that we learn from those to ensure that we address the areas where improvement is required. Providing high-quality, dignified and safe maternity and neonatal care to women and their babies is very important to me and this objective is shared by the entire government.

"Learnings from the survey must therefore be disseminated widely and acted upon in a timely manner. Of course, we must also ensure that we continue to listen to womens voices if we are to deliver the safe, compassionate and responsive maternity service that the women of Ireland expect and deserve.

HIQAs director of health information and standards, Rachel Flynn, said their maternity services must be responsive to the needs of women.

"Thousands of babies are born in Ireland each year to women who will all have a unique story to tell about their care during pregnancy, childbirth and at home with a newborn

baby.

It is only by listening and learning from the experiences of Irish mothers that we can bring about effective and sustainable changes to our maternity services, and put women and their babies at the centre of maternity care.

HSE CEO Paul Reid said they were very grateful to all the women who participated in the survey.

"As well as publishing the survey results today, we are also publishing the response of our community and hospital teams to the findings. Each maternity hospital and Community Healthcare Organisation has developed a quality improvement plan with clearly-defined actions to improve maternity care.

At a local and national level we are committed to making and monitoring these changes. We are clear about our priorities for perinatal mental health, feeding support and health information at every part of the maternity journey.

The report on the findings of the 2020 National Maternity Experience Survey, and the HSEs quality improvement plans (QIPs), can be found at www.yourexperience.ie.

You can also visit www.yourexperience.ie

and follow them on social: Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.
In The Know by Yahoo

A man in Malaysia discovered his phone was stolen by a monkey after finding the animals selfies in his camera roll.

Muhammad Zackrydz bin Mohd Rodzi shared the monkeys glamour shots on Twitter in September. There were even a few videos shot by the critter. Rodzi thought his phone had been stolen while he was asleep.

Something yang korang takkan jumpa setiap abad. Semalam pagi tido bangun bangun tengahari phone hilang. Cari cari satu rumah geledah sana sini semua takde then last last jumpa casing phone je tinggal bawah katil tapi phonenya takde. Sambung bawah. pic.twitter.com/0x54giujnY  z (@Zackrydz) September 13, 2020

There was no sign of robbery. The only thing on my mind was is it some kind of sorcery, the 20-year-old computer science student told BBC News.

The next afternoon, Rodzis father noticed a monkey outside of the house.

It was my father that initially told me that he saw monkeys around the house area, Rodzi told the Associated Press. So I asked my brother to call while I searched. I almost reached the jungle when I found my phone under a palm oil tree.

When Rodzi retrieved the phone he found several of the primates selfies and a video where the confused mammal tried to eat the device.

Now I am telling you this house is in total lockdown, he said. Now, whoever leaves the door open gets scolded. We dont want this to happen again.

While theres no way of verifying how the monkey got its hands on the phone, one thing is for sure this story is strange. Rodzi told BBC News that while monkeys do inhabit residential and urban areas where he lives in Johor, it is not common for them to steal from homes.

The only 4 products you need in your skincare routine, according to this viral TikTok dermatologist:

If you enjoyed this article, you might also like to read about this Human woman who is raising two monkeys as her children.

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The post College student finds his lost phone, discovers its full of monkey selfies appeared first on In The Know.
A day after President Donald J. Trump in a fiery debate questioned election integrity in Pennsylvania, state House Republicans pushed a plan out of committee to investigate the presidential election.

The resolution to create the Select Committee on Election Integrity would give lawmakers the power to investigate, review and make recommendations concerning the regulation and conduct of the 2020 election.

The new committee would be composed of five members  three Republicans, because they are the majority party, and two Democrats  who would be chosen by House Speaker Bryan Cutler, a Republican from Lancaster.

Former Vice President Joe Biden debates President Donald Trump on Sept. 29, 2020 in Cleveland.

Together, they would have the authority to subpoena election officials, the U.S. postal service and examine aspects of the election, even while voting and counting are in process.

But Rep. Garth Everett, a Republican from Lycoming County who leads the House State Government Committee, said the goal is to do that work after Election Day.

The intent of the resolution would be to do this post-election, and look and see what was good, what was bad, what we can do better," he said.

The measure on Wednesday passed the House State Government Committee 15-10 and is expected to get a House floor vote Thursday.

'Bad things happen in Philadelphia': How Pa. landed in the presidential debate 6 times

More: Could Pa.'s GOP legislature send Trump slate to Electoral College? No, say lawmakers, experts

Democrats opposed the resolution and raised concerns about Republicans starting partisan investigations before Election Day.

Democracies die slowly, said Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, a Democrat from Philadelphia who was a featured rising star during the Democratic National Convention. And I think that this bill would be a fatal blow to our democracy.

Rep. Pam DeLissio, a Democrat from Montgomery County, said she thinks her constituents would have "grave and serious concerns" that these investigations would be conducted in a manner that could interfere with the election.

Story continues

Everett said his committee would not have the power to change any laws and would only be able to investigate and make recommendations.

But House Minority Leader Frank Dermody, a Democrat from Allegheny County, said the new panel is a power grab and the last thing the House of Representative should be doing right now.

With ... no apparent limitation on their breadth, theres a real potential for serious harm to the ongoing election," Dermody said. "As this is currently written, its even possible the committee could try to impound uncounted ballots."

Gov. Tom Wolf in a statement Wednesday called it "a partisan attack" that undermines election integrity.

"The House Republicans are not only walking in lockstep with President Trump to try to sow chaos and put the results of the election in question, they are also taking steps to take the authority to administer elections away from the Department of State," Wolf said.

He said the "unprecedented attack on non-partisan election administrators" comes at a time when state officials should be instilling confidence in Pennsylvania elections.

"Despite the best efforts of the House Republicans, Pennsylvania will administer our elections safely and securely," Wolf said. "And we will stand up to House Republicans partisan efforts to interfere in our elections to benefit themselves and their political schemes."

Candy Woodall is a reporter for the USA Today Network. She can be reached at 717-480-1783 or on Twitter at @candynotcandace. This coverage is only possible with support from our readers. Sign up today for a digital subscription.

This article originally appeared on York Daily Record: Pennsylvania Republicans move ahead with plan to investigate election
Ursula von der Leyen today announced the European Union is launching legal action against the UK over Boris Johnson's plans to tear up parts of the Brexit divorce deal.

Brussels had given Downing Street until the end of September to scrap the Prime Minister's controversial proposals which are contained within the UK Internal Market Bill.

But the UK Government refused to budge and Ms von der Leyen said this morning that as a result the bloc has now started legal proceedings.

It has sent a 'letter of formal notice' to Number 10 which is the first step in the so-called 'infringement procedure' which could ultimately result in Britain being fined.

Speaking in Brussels she said: 'This draft Bill is by its very nature a breach of the obligation of good faith laid down in the Withdrawal Agreement.

'More over if adopted as is it will be in full contradiction to the protocol of Ireland/Northern Ireland.

'The deadline lapsed yesterday. The problematic provisions have not been removed.

'Therefore this morning the Commission has decided to send the letter of formal notice to the UK Government. This is the first step in an infringement procedure.

'The letter invites the UK Government to send its observations within a month and besides this the Commission will continue to work hard towards a full and timely implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement. We stand by our commitments.'

Downing Street said it 'will respond to the letter in due course' as it defended the approach it has taken.

'We have clearly set out our reasons for introducing the measures related to the Northern Ireland Protocol,' a Government spokesman said.

'We need to create a legal safety net to protect the integrity of the UK's internal market, ensure Ministers can always deliver on their obligations to Northern Ireland and protect the gains from the peace process.'

The escalation of the row risks souring the atmosphere of trade talks which remain ongoing between Brussels and Britain after optimism had grown in recent days that a deal could be done in the coming weeks after months of deadlock.

Ursula von er Leyen today announced the EU is launching legal action against the UK over Boris Johnson's plans to tear up parts of the Brexit divorce deal

Downing Street said Mr Johnson, pictured yesterday, and the Government will respond to the EU's letter of formal notice 'in due course'

How does the EU's legal action actually work and how could the UK be punished? Brussels has the power to take legal action against any member state which is not respecting its obligations under EU law. The process starts with the bloc issuing a 'letter of formal notice' which effectively asks the offending country to set out its position. If the EU is not satisfied with the response it can then issue a 'reasoned opinion' which amounts to a formal demand to comply with the law. If the member state then fails to comply, the European Commission can refer the matter to the European Court of Justice. The overwhelming majority of cases - some 95 per cent - are settled before they are referred to the court. However, if the disagreement does make it to the court and it rules against the country then it is legally required to 'take the necessary measures to comply with the judgement'. If there is a continued refusal to comply then the Commission can propose that the court impose financial penalties against the offending country. This could come in the form of a lump sum penalty payment or a daily penalty payment until there is compliance. It is the court that ultimately decides the size of any financial penalties. Infringement proceedings take a long time to progress and are a relatively common tool used by the European Commission. There were around 800 open cases against member states last year alone. The UK remains subject to EU law and the bloc's infringement procedure during the Brexit transition period which is due to end in December. Advertisement

The latest row with the EU was sparked by the publication of the Government's UK Internal Market Bill last month.

The legislation, which is currently making its way through Parliament, will enable the UK to unilaterally make decisions on key issues, like customs arrangements between mainland Britain and Northern Ireland, contained within the Withdrawal Agreement.

But Brussels is adamant that the decisions must be made by a joint committee made up of people from both sides - a process set out in the divorce accord signed by Mr Johnson in January.

The Government has admitted its proposals will break international law 'in a very specific and limited way'.

But it insists they are necessary in order to protect the integrity of the UK and to prevent chaos if the two sides are unable to agree terms by the end of the transition period in December.

The plans prompted fury at home and abroad as Mr Johnson faced condemnation from his own MPs, his political opponents and the EU.

Mr Johnson was also criticised by all five living former prime ministers, with Sir John Major, David Cameron, Theresa May, Tony Blair and Gordon Brown all taking aim at the PM.

Despite the widespread disquiet over the plans the Government has pressed ahead with them and earlier this week the Bill cleared its final stage in the House of Commons.

MPs backed the legislation by 340 votes to 256 and it is now set to move to the House of Lords for further scrutiny.

The Government was able to see off a potential Tory rebellion after it gave into demands to hand MPs a so-called 'parliamentary lock' on the use of the powers.

That means that if ministers ever want to depart from the Withdrawal Agreement they will have to ask Parliament for permission first in the form of a formal vote.

EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier made clear after Ms von der Leyen's announcement that the bloc will not accept the UK trying to depart from any of the terms agreed to in the divorce accord.

He tweeted: 'Full & effective implementation of Withdrawal Agreement will always be an absolute priority for the EU.

'It is the result of long EU-UK negotiations & the only way to protect Good Friday (Belfast) Agreement, guaranteeing peace and stability on island of Ireland.'

Labour said both Britain and Brussels needed to 'drop the posturing' and focus on agreeing a trade deal.

Shadow minister for the Cabinet Office Rachel Reeves said: 'There is clearly a deal to be done. Both sides need to drop the posturing and the threats by getting back round the negotiating table and getting a trade deal done.

'The country wants the Government to move on from past divisions, secure the trade agreement we need and focus on defeating this pandemic.'

Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage responded to the start of legal proceedings against the UK by arguing the Withdrawal Agreement 'should never have been signed in the first place'.

He tweeted: 'The 'oven ready deal' was an international treaty  for the EU Commission, that is like the Bible.

'Whilst the EU always acts in bad faith, all they are doing today is asking Boris to keep his promises.

'It should never have been signed in the first place.'

Ian Blackford, the SNP's leader in Westminster, claimed Mr Johnson was acting 'recklessly' on Brexit.

He said: 'Boris Johnson is taking the UK towards an extreme Brexit disaster and total humiliation - ruining our international reputation and threatening the economy with the hardest of Brexits.

'The Prime Minister has shown he is arrogant, reckless and completely untrustworthy. There is now little doubt that the UK is heading towards a low deal or no deal Brexit, either of which would be devastating for jobs, living standards, businesses and the economy.'

Remain campaigners claimed the legal row could 'derail' trade talks, something which they said would have 'severe consequences' for the UK economy.

Best for Britain CEO Naomi Smith said: 'The Government's ill-thought through Internal Market Bill has already embarrassed Britain on the international stage, but now it's clear that it threatens to blow up the chances of a trade deal too.

'For all the positive noises coming out of talks in recent weeks, UK negotiators will be understandably frustrated that this Bill could derail everything.'

Despite today's escalation in the dispute over the Bill, the announcement by Ms von der Leyen does suggest the EU is not in a hurry to clash with the UK on the subject while talks on a free trade deal are continuing.

Infringement proceedings typically take a long time to progress and are a relatively common tool used by the European Commission - there were around 800 open cases against member states last year alone.

The publication of the Bill had prompted emergency talks in London last month between Minister for the Cabinet Office Michael Gove and European Commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic.

Mr Sefcovic gave Mr Gove a deadline of the end of September for the UK to scrap the plans.

He told his counterpart that 'the Withdrawal Agreement contains a number of mechanisms and legal remedies to address violations of the legal obligations contained in the text  which the European Union will not be shy in using'.

But Mr Gove said the UK 'could not and would not' retreat on the issue as he promised the Government would not back down, putting the two sides on a collision course.
Prince Harry today praised Diversity's 'amazing' Black Lives Matter-inspired dance routine on Britain's Got Talent as he called for an end to 'structural racism' in Britain.

In a wide-ranging interview from the Sussexes' 11million California mansion, Prince Harry said he was 'surprised' by the thousands of complaints made to Ofcom after the controversial performance.

The Duke of Sussex also revealed his 'awakening' to issues faced by black people after meeting his wife Meghan Markle.

Meanwhile, Meghan called Black Lives Matter protests in the US after the death of George Floyd 'beautiful'  but claimed this only applied to 'peaceful protest' and admitted that many people found the demonstrations 'inflammatory'.

Speaking to the Evening Standard, Harry revealed he spoke to Diversity's leader Ashley Banjo after the troupe's routine sparked a massive backlash.

He said: 'We spoke to Ashley Banjo a few weeks ago, straight after the Britain's Got Talent situation. And that in itself, I am sure even me talking about it will be controversial, but the reality of it is he and his team of guys put on the most amazing display.

Prince Harry today praised Diversity's 'amazing' Black Lives Matter-inspired dance routine on Britain's Got Talent as he called for an end to 'structural racism' in Britain

In a wide-ranging interview from the Sussexes' 11million California mansion, Prince Harry said he was 'surprised' by the thousands of complaints made to Ofcom after the performance

'We had such a good chat with Ashley. He was really strong, he felt great about it, but at the same time he was concerned because of the reaction. It was a real surprise that there was what?

'1,100 complaints after the show and then three days of hype it became 20 or 25,000. I am very glad Ofcom made the decision that they did but that in itself kind of proves how much this conversation needs to continue.'

Diversity's BLM-inspired routine garnered nearly 25,000 complaints to broadcast regulator Ofcom as the performance became the second-most complained about television moment of the decade.

Ofcom will NOT investigate Diversity's BLM Britain's Got Talent dance despite more than 24,000 complaints - and claims the controversial performance was 'symbolic of global events' Ofcom will not investigate Diversity's controversial Black Lives Matter-inspired routine from Britain's Got Talent on September 5, despite viewer complaints soaring to 24,500. The performance has now become the second-most complained about television moment of the decade, but a spokesperson for the government-approved regulatory body has confirmed to MailOnline no action will be taken. The representative said: 'We carefully considered a large number of complaints about this artistic routine, an area where freedom of expression is particularly important. 'Diversity's performance referred to challenging and potentially controversial subjects, and in our view, its central message was a call for social cohesion and unity. 'Any depictions of violence by the performers were highly stylised and symbolic of recent global events, and there was no explicit reference to any particular political organisation  but rather a message that the lives of black people matter.' Troupe leader Ashley Banjo reacted to the news on Instagram as he shared the statement and penned: 'Creativity is always a leap of faith. All I did what was what felt right and I'd do it 100 times over... Sending love to everyone that stood by us'. The decision was met with a mixed reaction from viewers, with some lauding the move and others claiming firmer action needed to be taken. Advertisement

However, a spokesman for the Government-approved body revealed that it will not take action against Diversity as it argued that the troupe's performance 'referred to challenging and potentially controversial subjects, and in our view, its central message was a call for social cohesion and unity'.

In an article written to coincide with the interview, the couple said: 'For as long as structural racism exists, there will be generations of young people of colour who do not start their lives with the same equality of opportunity as their white peers.

'And for as long as that continues, untapped potential will never get to be realised.'

The interview is the latest in a long series of political interventions by the couple, including last week when Harry weighed in on the US election by urging voters to 'reject hate speech'.

The comments  which broke royal protocol  were widely interpreted as a call to vote out Donald Trump, and prompted Buckingham Palace to immediately distance themselves from Harry by noting he was 'not working member of the Royal Family'.

Harry, 36, said he had become more aware of the issue of racism after marrying his wife, 39.

He said: 'Because I wasn't aware of so many of the issues and so many of the problems within the UK and also globally as well. I thought I did but I didn't.'

He added: 'You know, when you go in to a shop with your children and you only see white dolls, do you even think: 'That's weird, there is not a black doll there?'.'

The interview also saw the Duchess of Sussex comment on the sometimes violent Black Lives Matter protests in the US after the death of George Floyd.

She admitted the demonstrations could be 'inflammatory' but that - when peaceful - they were a 'beautiful thing'.

Last week, the Duke and Duchess were accused of 'over-stepping the line' after a thinly-veiled swipe at Donald Trump as they urged Americans to get out and vote in the upcoming election.

In the couple's most high-profile intervention in the US presidential election, Harry urged voters to 'reject hate speech, misinformation and online negativity'  all qualities critics associate with Mr Trump.

In a TV appearance to mark Time magazine's 100 most influential people roll call, Meghan  who has made no secret of her antipathy towards the president  described November's vote as the most important election of her lifetime.

Meanwhile, Harry complained that he had never been able to exercise his democratic right to vote because of the convention that, as a member of the British Royal Family, he should remain politically neutral.

Royal insiders voiced concern in Britain where the Queen and her family are expected to remain politically neutral at all times, with one saying that Harry and Meghan had 'crossed a line'.

Buckingham Palace also distanced itself from Harry's remarks by saying that 'the Duke is not a working member of the royal family' and describing his comments as 'made in a personal capacity'.
Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden makes remarks as he prepares to board an Amtrak train to begin a campaign train tour in Cleveland, Ohio, on Sept. 30, 2020. (Mike Segar/Reuters)

Biden Again Refuses to Say Whether He Supports Packing Supreme Court

Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden, for at least the third time, wouldnt answer directly when asked whether he supports adding seats to the Supreme Court.

WTAE, a Pittsburgh broadcaster, asked Biden on Wednesday as he toured the state whether he supports the idea, which has been floated by several congressional Democrats.

You know, thats exactly what they want me to talk about so we dont talk about how theyre violating the Constitution now, Biden said.

Im not going to play Trumps game. Right now, my entire focus is seeing to it that the American people get a chancethe election has already startedto have their say on who the next Supreme Court justice is. And thats what Im focused on.

Asked how the GOP is violating the Constitution, Biden said, The Constitution says that the American peopleI taught constitutional law for over 20 yearssays the American people get an opportunity to choose who they want on the Supreme Court by who they pick as their senator and their president.

Its always appropriate for a president and a senator, the Senate, to make a judgement, except once an election has started, he added.

The Constitution says that the president shall nominate and, with the advice and consent of the Senate, appoint judges of the Supreme Court. Theres no mention of holding back if an election has started.

Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) meets with Judge Amy Coney Barrett, President Donald Trumps nominee for the Supreme Court, on Capitol Hill in Washington on Sept. 30, 2020. (Sarah Silbiger/Pool via AP)

Biden and other Democrats want the GOP-held Senate to not vote on President Donald Trumps Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett until its clear whether he or Trump wins the upcoming election.

Republicans say voters chose to keep the Senate in their hands in the 2018 midterms in part because they promised to confirm Trumps judicial nominees. Voters also chose Trump as president in 2016, GOP lawmakers note.

A president is elected for four years. Were not elected for three years, Trump told Biden at the debate on Tuesday night.

During the debate, Biden refused to answer moderator Chris Wallace when asked whether he would back the push to add seats to the Supreme Court or end the filibuster in the Senate if Democrats gain enough power in the election.

He also declined to answer directly when asked by an Ohio broadcaster last week.

Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) joined Biden in his stance, saying during a recent appearance on MSNBC, I think Joes been very clear that he is going to pay attention to the factand I am with him on this 1,000 percentpay attention to the fact that right now, Lawrence, people are voting. Theyre voting.

Harris then argued that voters have a right, in an election, to elect their next president, who then will make the decision about who will be the nominee.
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Despite high security at airports to deter gold smuggling, a passenger from the UAE tried to sneak in 40 grams of the yellow metal concealed behind the exhalation valve of a N-95 mask that he was wearing before Customs officials caught him at the Kozhikode international airport on Tuesday

This is the first time we are coming across such a concealment tactic. It shows smugglers are out to exploit every situation whether it is pandemic or not. Usually we avoid masks and they were using this opportunity to smuggle, said a senior Customs official.

He said the passenger Amar Mohammad, a native of Bhatkal in neighbouring Karnataka, who arrived by a Vande Bharat flight, had completed all checks and was about to exit the airport when an officer noticed that the mask he was wearing was sagging at one side and he was frequently adjusting it. When asked about it, he turned agitated and was in a hurry to slip out, the official said.

After checking his mask, officials found gold concealed inside it. The official said after the incident now passengers have been asked to deposit their mask also along with their wallet, belt and mobile phones for checking.

The smuggled gold is worth 2 lakh. We have detained him. It really shows the smugglers are making use of all opportunities, said the official.

Though there is no normal flight these days, smugglers make use of Vande Bharat and chartered flights to carry out their activities thinking frisking norms would be lax during the Covid-19 pandemic, said the official.

Smugglers have used date seeds, bra straps, belt buckles, shoes soles, sausages and gold paste to ring in the gold as its price soars in the country.

For Customs officials it is a high-stakes hide-and- seek game every day. Last year in Kerala 550 kg gold seized from four international airports.

Security at airports has been tightened after 30 kg of gold were seized from the Thiruvananthapuram international airport on July 5 from a consignment for the UAE consulate.

The seizure led to a probe by the NIA which is continuing.

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Nicola Sturgeon made her controversial comments on Wednesday evening - Pool/ Getty Images Europe

Nicola Sturgeon is facing a backlash from Scotlands crisis-hit hospitality industry after she suggested a popular discount scheme credited with saving businesses and livelihoods should have never been set up.

The First Minister questioned whether the Eat Out to Help Out initiative, which saw diners across the UK receive discounts for dining in at pubs and restaurants in August, had contributed to a surge in coronavirus cases.

However, representatives of businesses north of the border said the UK Government subsidy scheme, which cost taxpayers 522m, had been a huge success and accused Scottish ministers of failing to listen to their concerns.

Stephen Montgomery, spokesman for the Scottish Hospitality Group, said much of the cost of the scheme had been offset by increased tax receipts through VAT and alcohol duty and that it was seen within the industry as a lifeline.

The scheme was popular with the public - Will Oliver/Shutterstock

If the First Minister is blaming this scheme for the spread of the disease, thats wrong, he said. The spread of the disease is being caused, as [Scotland's National Clinical Director] Jason Leitch said, primarily by house parties.

With the music ban, the 10pm curfew and the two household limit, I dont see what more she wants us to do.

The sector is calling for a ban on background music or sound from TVs, which does not apply elsewhere in the UK, to be scrapped and called for similar initiatives to chancellor Rishi Sunaks scheme to be set up.

The Eat Out to Help Out scheme gave a welcome boost to the trade at a time when it was desperately needed, a spokesman for the Scottish Beer and Pub Association said.

Pubs and other hospitality businesses are continuing to struggle and are crying out for further sector-specific support now. Premises in Scotland have been devastated by the ban on background music and noise from TVs, which isnt in place anywhere else in the world."

He added: The 10pm curfew is also hitting pubs harder due to the normal closing time of midnight or 1am in Scotland, meaning they are losing two or three hours of trade.

Story continues

The Scottish Government needs to understand the additional burdens on the trade in Scotland and look to support the industry with all the tools they have. Consumer confidence is key in this and comments which reflect negatively on the trade have a direct impact on jobs and viability of the sector.

While she did not publicly voice concerns about Eat Out to Help Out when it was running, Ms Sturgeon continued to urge Scottish residents to think carefully before going to venues such as pubs and restaurants, while UK ministers told the public to take advantage of the scheme.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak set up the scheme - WPA Pool/Getty

It saw diners receive a discount of 50 per cent on food and non-alcoholic drinks, up to 10 per head, on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays in August.

Speaking to ITV on Wednesday, the First Minister said that while decision-makers should not be "blind" to economic concerns, maybe it would have been better if it hadn't happened.

She added: "Obviously we've got university clusters just now but in recent weeks we've got two key drivers, and it's about the people coming together in people's houses, which is why in Scotland we're asking people not to visit other people's houses right now and that's really difficult, but also in hospitality settings, where people are coming together and mingling."

Her comments echo those of Devi Sridhar, a University of Edinburgh public health expert and a key coronavirus adviser to the First Minister, who has called the scheme a short-term populist policy that risked a spike in cases. She has suggested the money could have been spent to support businesses in other ways, without risking a rise in cases.

Since the scheme ended, lockdown-style restrictions have been reimposed across Britain, including new curbs on hospitality, with both cases and deaths on the rise.

However, Marc Crothall, Chief Executive of the Scottish Tourism Alliance, rejected the criticism, saying Eat Out to Help Out had offered a much-needed lifeline to businesses and had been a significant factor in keeping businesses and jobs across Scotland viable.

We must remember that for the duration of the initiative, case numbers were low with most business having invested significant sums of money to create a safe environment for their guests to enjoy dining out, he said.
A 27-year-old man was killed in North York in a daylight shooting Thursday morning as he was getting ready to take his newborn baby to hospital, police say.

Toronto police were called to the area of Jane Street and Lawrence Avenue West, just before 9:30 a.m.

Duty Insp. Paul Rinkoff told reporters at the scene that the victim was getting into his parked car, with a woman and his newborn baby, to take the child to a hospital.

They were approached by the suspects in another car when shots were fired. Shortly after being shot, the victim was pronounced dead.

Rinkoff said the woman and newborn child werent injured.

When asked about a report of a possible exchange of gunfire, Rinkoff said police were still investigating.

Police are looking for two suspects in a four-door sedan, who fled east on Lawrence.

The homicide and forensic units are investigating and police cant confirm whether this was a targeted shooting.

Police are asking anyone with information to contact them.

Several area schools were briefly put on lockdown in the aftermath of the shooting.

.

Breanna Xavier-Carter is a breaking news reporter, working out of the Star's radio room in Toronto. Reach her via email: bxavier@thestar.ca
President on Tuesday didn't condemn white supremacist groups and their role in violence in some American cities this summer, branding it solely a left-wing problem and telling one far-right extremist group to stand back and stand by.

Almost everything I see is from the left wing, not from the right wing," said Trump, whose exchange with Democrat Joe Biden left the extremist group Proud Boys celebrating what some of its members saw as tacit approval.

He was responding to a question from debate moderator Chris Wallace, who asked the president if he would condemn white supremacist and militia groups that have shown up at some protests. Wallace specifically mentioned Kenosha, Wisconsin, where a white teenager was charged with killing two protesters during demonstrations over the police shooting of Jacob Blake, a Black man. Trump has repeatedly blamed antifa, which stands for the anti-fascist movement.

I'm willing to do anything. I want to see peace," Trump said. What do you want to call them? Give me a name." Proud Boys, Democrat Joe Biden chimed in, referencing a far-right extremist group that has shown up at protests in the Pacific Northwest. The male-only group of neo-fascists describes themselves as western chauvinists, and they have been known to incite street violence.

Proud Boys, stand back and stand by, Trump said. But I'll tell you what, I'll tell you what, somebody's got to do something about antifa and the left because this is not a right-wing problem.

FBI Director Christopher Wray told a congressional panel last week, though, that white supremacists and anti-government extremists have been responsible for most of the recent deadly attacks by extremist groups within the U.S.

Trump, a Republican, has tried to tie incidents of violence that have accompanied largely peaceful protests to Biden and the Democrats, running on a law and order" message that warns people won't be safe under a Democratic president. It's a message aimed squarely at white suburban voters, including women who voted for Trump in 2016 but may not do so again.

What we saw was a dog whistle through a bullhorn, California Sen. Kamala Harris, Biden's running mate, said on MSNBC after the debate. is not pretending to be anything other than what he is: Someone who will not condemn white supremacists.

Proud Boys leaders and supporters later celebrated the president's words on social media. A channel on Telegram, an instant messaging service, with more than 5,000 of the group's members posted Stand Back and Stand By above and below the group's logo.

Biden has said he decided to run for president after Trump said there were very fine people" on both sides of a 2017 protest led by white supremacists in Charlottesville, Virginia, where a counterprotester was killed.

Trump said Tuesday that Biden was afraid to say the words law and order" and pressed him to give examples of law enforcement groups that back his campaign. Biden didn't name any, but said he's in favor of law and order with justice, where people get treated fairly." Biden called antifa an idea, not an organization. That's similar to how Wray described it, though Trump has called on the federal government to characterize antifa as a terrorist organization.

At another point in the debate, when discussing a Trump administration move to end racial sensitivity training in the federal government, Biden directly called Trump a racist. He also accused him of trying to sow racist hatred and racist division in the country.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
(Photo : Jeffree Star via Twitter @JeffreeStar)

The self-established American make-up artist and cosmetics company founder, Jeffree Star, is now offering to pay Twitter fans and the public's pandemic bills, during this time of need, through #JeffreeStarByeBills hashtag and Cash App fund transfer. The popular YouTuber and Social Media Influencer aims to provide assistance to those who are experiencing hardships in paying their bills during this pandemic.

Famous YouTuber and Influencer, Jeffree Star, is known for his line of cosmetics that gives the user an array of colorful pallete for the skin. Jeffree Star is also known for his dramatic YouTube persona that reviews several beauty products that most subscribers find very helpful in the community.

On recent news, Jeffree Star is aiming to help the public through Cash App payments, particularly, on their bills during the hard times brought by the Novel Coronavirus, that has been plaguing the world for several months now. The influencer brought the 'crowdsourcing' for possible beneficiaries on Twitter, through the hashtag #JeffreeStarByeBills.

Serious question, who needs their bills paid tonight? Drop me your @CashApp username and use #JeffreeStarByeBills - Time to help as many as I can tonight, thank you for all the support  Jeffree Star (@JeffreeStar) October 1, 2020

The generous acts of the influencer gathered many Twitter fans, users, and the public, asking for help from Star and his charitable announcement on the short word social media platform. In spite of the influencer facing hate and criticisms on social media, people are clamoring and asking for assistance from Star.

The public are now sharing the hashtag and engaging with the tweet, which caused a massive trend on Twitter. Jeffree Star's tweet and hashtag is the number one trend for the country today, with more than 58 thousand engagements on Twitter.

ALSO READ: [VIRAL] John Cena, BTS Fanboy? Yes, The Wrestler Admits He Is A Certified 'ARMY'

Jeffree Star's Bye Bills: Pandemic's Call for Help

The pandemic rendered many people, including single parents, the elderly, and the less fortunate to lose more through the world and country's lockdown. Several people are also forced out of employment due to the economic downfall and industry decline.

#JeffreeStarByeBills My car burned up yesterday with me in it! Thank good I made it out safely with my children. This would make my entire life. I made a Twitter for this specifically  $yachoree - cashapp I can send more proof privately pic.twitter.com/sreyNs55IV  Zaynashakir (@Zaynashakir1) October 1, 2020

pic.twitter.com/gNZ8HNpMTW Two months ago I was in an accident and I ruptured four tendons in my hand. I need a second surgery and will be out of work an additional three months. I just want to be able to pay my mortgage and feed my family $mbrandon1992 #JeffreeStarByeBills  Miranda brandon (@Mirandabrando13) October 1, 2020

@JeffreeStar @Mooka1997 #JeffreeStarByeBills I need my bills braid through this hard time I cant even work always at Yale new haven with my son pray for him guys please pic.twitter.com/9mKERQO1Rk  Pretty Mooka (@SavageMooka) October 1, 2020

#JeffreeStarByeBills @JeffreeStar pic.twitter.com/z5cvYzWReb I have 6 grand left in student loans and Im a single mom raising my niece after her father died in a car accident a few years ago and her mothers been struggling with addiction her whole life. This is Jemma  #StudentLoans  Sarah McNamara (@SarahMakk) October 1, 2020

The pandemic took a toll on the world and some are left without any means of livelihood to support their daily lives. #JeffreeStarByeBills is now offering to aid those in horrendous situations and little by little, help those in need. Jeffree Star aims to help people via the Cash App, a mobile service payment application by Square, Inc.

Twitter's Reaction to Jeffree Star's Charitable Act

Several users used the hashtag #JeffreeStarByeBills to convey their opinion and take with regards to the online charity donation drive. Twitter users argue that a majority of people are 'cancelling' the social media influencer before the bills payment act, but are now asking him for help.

Twitter: "Jeffree Star is just morally awful, he's a terrible person and he needs to be stopped" Also Twitter: "Omg Jeffree, I'm so broke, I'm a single mother with 47 children."#JeffreeStarByeBills pic.twitter.com/gbjsvUx9Ud  "Matter, Black Lives Do" - Yoda  (@mikenactor) October 1, 2020



Jeffree Star did not mind the criticisms and shade thrown at him, and still decides to go forth with extending help to those in need. Currently the tweet gained 38 thousand likes with almost 10 thousand retweets (quote tweets included).

I just checked this guys account who asked for help, and he's said some mean things about me in the past.

I still sent him money and pray he has a better week   Jeffree Star (@JeffreeStar) October 1, 2020



ALSO READ: Meet Twitch's Most-Watched Call of Duty Warzone Season 5 Streamers!-HusKerrs Moves Up the Ladder with NickMercs Leading the Charge!

This article is owned by Tech Times





Written by Isaiah Alonzo



 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Help sought

With some materials out of the way, Godfrey said, what his department really needs now are more volunteers.

A lot of our guys are like me, who have come through the department in 30 years, are aging, and we need that young firefighter coming in to carry on from that foundation we have now, Godfrey said. We dont have a populous area to pull people from, so anything we can do to try to reach out to the community and get those people, well try to.

Johnson said Brendletown has been fortunate to have a fairly full roster  35 members with room for 40.

We need help, said Brendletown Lt. Ray Thomas. All the stations need help.  Even though weve got 35, we could still use five more.

Anyone interested in joining a local fire department or finding out how else to help should call the department or drop by a department meeting to learn more.

Brendletown Fire Rescue holds meetings at 7 p.m. Tuesdays at Station 1 on U.S. 64. Enola Fire Department holds training meetings at 7 p.m. the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month at its station on Enola Road.
Even if omicron peak nears, Long Beach cases and hospitalizations will still be up for weeks, official says
Double Michelin-starred Philippe Etchebest, who frequently appears on TV cooking shows, pressed restaurateurs and their staff to stand on the street outside their venues on Friday before lunch service and make some noise.

"We will not die in silence," he said on BFM television. "The government must understand that restaurants are not to blame for COVID and that closing our venues only moves the problem elsewhere," he said.

Etchebest, who regularly acts as a spokesman for the industry and has been consulted by President Emmanuel Macron, said closing restaurants and bars would encourage people to gather in private homes, where he questioned whether social distancing rules were respected at all.

Health Minister Olivier Veran has already ordered bars and restaurants in the southern city of Marseille to shut for two weeks and said on Thursday that Paris could be placed on the maximum alert level from Monday, meaning similar measures there.

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Alain Fontaine, owner of Le Meustret and president of the Association of Master Restaurateurs, said restaurants only accounted for 2% of coronavirus clusters in France.

"We don't understand why we're being targeted," he said. "It's going a bit far because we're getting at a way of life. In Paris, cafes, bistros and restaurants are important socially."

Like other European countries where infection rates have surged in the past month, France has once again been tightening restrictions on public life, hoping it will be enough to contain the disease and avoid a second national lockdown.

In Marseille's Old Port in France, several restaurants on Monday defied a government order to shutdown for two weeks to try to slow the spread of the coronavirus, saying they had little to lose.

The shutdown, which came into effect at midnight on Sunday, angered local politicians, restaurant owners and employees who say it is disproportionate to the risk and will devastate the local economy.

"It's not in bars and restaurants that COVID has come surging back," said one restaurant owner who opened for lunch service. "I've 60 kg of mussels that need using up."

"Overnight, we have no money coming in and we have families to feed," the restaurateur, who did not want to reveal his identity, said.

Opponents of the shutdown have filed a legal petition seeking that it be overturned.

The petition, protests in the Mediterranean port city, and the defiant stand by some restaurateurs point to simmering public resentment as the government again tightens COVID restrictions.

The UMIH trade union said it hoped the courts would reverse the government order but that it was not encouraging its members to flout the law.

"We must respect the law, even if we don't agree with it," said UMIH president and restaurant owner Bernard Marty.
Denmark cleared on Thursday the final hurdle to Nord Stream 2 potentially starting operations in Danish waters, while the U.S. continues its attempt to stop the Russia-led natural gas pipeline project.

On Thursday, the Danish Energy Agency said it had granted Nord Stream 2 AG, the company behind the project, an operations permit for the Nord Stream 2 pipelines on the Danish continental shelf, on a number of conditions.

Commissioning can only take place when at least one of the pipelines has been tested, verified and when relevant conditions in the construction permit and the operations permit have been met, the Danish agency said.

Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said an interview with a German daily last week that the U.S. was building a coalition aimed at preventing the completion of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline that will substantially increase the flow of Russian gas into Europe.

From the US point of view, Nord Stream 2 endangers Europe because it makes it dependent on Russian gas and endangers Ukraine - which in my opinion worries many Germans, Pompeo told German daily Bild.

Germany, the endpoint of Nord Stream 2, has been looking at the economic benefits of the project, while the United States, including President Donald Trump, has been threatening sanctions on the project and even on Germany over its support for the project.

The United States, several European countries including the Baltic states and Poland, as well as the European Union (EU), have expressed concern about Russia using gas sales and its gas monopoly Gazprom as a political tool.

Related: This Small Nation Is Building The Worlds Next Major Energy Hub

The United States views Nord Stream 2 as further undermining Europes energy security by giving Gazprom another pipeline to ship its natural gas to European markets.

In July, the United States warned companies helping Russia to complete Nord Stream 2 that they should get out now or face consequences, as the Trump administration steps up efforts to stop the construction of the controversial Russia-led pipeline in Europe.

In recent weeks, German Chancellor Angela Merkel has come under pressure from some of her coalition partners to drop the German support for Nord Stream 2 after the poisoning of Russian opposition leader and Putin critic, Alexey Navalny.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
WASHINGTON - The Trump administration can move forward with its lawsuit against former national security adviser John Bolton over his tell-all book, a judge ruled Thursday in denying a request to dismiss the complaint.

The Justice Department alleges that Boltons book, The Room Where It Happened, contains classified information, and the government sued in June to try to prevent the release. Though the book was published, a suit accusing Bolton of breaking agreements with the government by disclosing classified information and by failing to complete a required pre-publication review can proceed, U.S District Judge Royce Lamberth said in a 27-page opinion.

The Justice Department, the judge wrote, plausibly pleads that Bolton breached those obligations.

Charles Cooper, Boltons lawyer, said in an email that the ruling, which we are still studying, means that the case will now move forward to the phase in which the parties will develop and present their evidence.

The book, which details Boltons 17 months as Trumps national security adviser, contains descriptions of Trumps conversations with foreign leaders that could be seen as politically damaging to the president. Those include accounts that Trump tied providing military aid to Ukraine to that countrys willingness to conduct investigations into Democratic rival Joe Biden and Bidens son Hunter, and that Trump asked Chinas President Xi Jinping to help his reelection prospects.

Lamberth in June denied the governments request for an injunction to block the book from being published, given that thousands of copies had already been distributed. But in the same order, he also scolded Bolton for moving ahead with the books publication without waiting for formal, written authorization that the book had been cleared.

His decision Thursday clears the way for the Justice Departments suit to move forward, including the governments efforts to seize proceeds from the book. The judge said the government had reasonably shown that Bolton disclosed classified information without first confirming that it was unclassified.

Even if Bolton operated out of an abundance of caution in submitting his manuscript for review, the very existence of his caution leads to a fair inference that Bolton was less than certain as to the status of the manuscript, Lamberth wrote. And the allegation that classified material was actually present in the manuscript makes it more likely that Bolton harboured doubts as to whether everything in his manuscript was unclassified.

A Justice Department spokeswoman said the department was pleased with the ruling.

Boltons lawyers have maintained that he worked for months with a White House career official, Ellen Knight, to ensure that the manuscript was carefully screened for classified information, and that Knight concluded that review in April by determining that the book was free of such material. But White House officials later conducted a second review that they said identified classified information still in the book.

The case took a notable turn last week when a lawyer for Knight submitted a statement that said that after Knight had advised National Security Council lawyers that she intended to clear the book for publication, she was told to take no action and to tell Bolton that the process was ongoing.

Weeks later, according to the statement, she learned that a White House official who she said had no previous classification experience had been instructed to conduct a second review of the manuscript.

That official, Michael Ellis, flagged hundreds of passages that he believed were still classified. Knight disagreed with that conclusion and considered the re-review to be fundamentally flawed, according to the filing.

____

Follow Eric Tucker on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/etuckerAP
Angela Cole jokes that every time she and other volunteers decide they're going to discontinue serving twice-weekly hot dinners in Sanford for those who've been affected by the mid-Michigan dam failures and flooding in May, another group steps forward offering to provide another meal.

"Right now, we have meals planned and organized through Oct. 15. But we'll continue it as long as we see the need and the community continues to donate," Cole said Thursday, shortly before heading to downtown Sanford to help give meals to hundreds of people. "It's been kind of a running joke. Every time we set a date (to end the meals), we end up extending it."

The dinners are being distributed on a curbside basis at Cole's Wrecker Service at 323 West Saginaw Road on Monday and Thursday evenings. Volunteers  10 to 15 each time  start arriving at 3:30 and residents from as far away as Wixom Lake and Midland come in their cars and wait patiently. Around 4:45, the volunteers start bringing the meals to the cars.

Thursday marked the 15th date that the dinners have been served to this point, and more than 2,500 individual meals have been given out, Cole said. At least 65 organizations and 100 different people have volunteered.

And it's clear how great the need is and how much the residents appreciate a hot meal when many of them are living in campers or tents while they work to repair homes or secure other housing.

"One time, we ran out of 150 meals in 13 minutes," said Cole, a longtime Sanford resident and Midland attorney.

On Sept. 17, the volunteers served an early Thanksgiving feast of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, corn, pumpkin pie, etc. Cole said all 300 meals were distributed within 45 minutes.

"(Residents) tell me they never imagined how much they would miss having a stove," Cole explained. "Or maybe they're using a grill (to do all their cooking) and they're just happy not to have to light their grill that night."

No advance sign-up is necessary to receive a meal, she said. The only requirement is that the person was impacted by the flooding or is helping someone who was.

Umbareen Jamil, a member of the Islamic Center of Midland and a co-director of Midland Area Interfaith Friends, said it's been inspiring to see the generosity of the community in the effort to provide and serve hot meals and meet other needs of those impacted by the flooding.

"It's all been a community effort and that's the real story  how the community has come together to help people in Sanford," Jamil said. "Angela Cole knows tons of people (in the area). She's been able to recruit sponsors for these meals. And through our connections with Interfaith (Friends), we've had so many churches step forward."

The Islamic Center and Interfaith Friends, among many other groups, have been helping flood survivors with many needs since May. One endeavor they organized was a hot dog barbecue in Sanford in mid-July, where 125 lunches were distributed outside the Red Oak restaurant.

"After we did that, Angela said we should turn this into a dinner and do it on a weekday. So, ever since early August, we've been distributing dinners every Thursday," Jamil said.

As Cole notes, that turned into both Monday and Thursday nights as more groups began contributing meals.

Alex's Railside Restaurant, for example, which recently reopened in Midland after its building was flooded in Sanford, plans to bring a pot roast meal to be served on Oct. 15.

"Some institutions like to give money. Others say, 'We'll make part of the food,'" Jamil explained. "Then we've got tons of individuals that have sent in contributions. Yesterday, I got two $50 checks from random people, saying, 'We heard you're doing meals (for residents impacted by flooding). Here's $50; apply it toward a meal.'"

Residents who enjoy the meal also sense the love behind them, Cole said.

"It feels to them like the community cares. It is the community wrapping their arms around the residents," Cole said.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Anyone interested in volunteering or making a donation for the meals in Sanford should call Angela Cole at 989-513-1260 or Umbareen Jamil at 989-948-1012.
After months of a rare 'break' due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the film industry is finally springing back to life. With shooting resuming across the country with safety precautions in place, now Kangana Ranaut is also set to return to the sets. The actor will resume the shoot of her film Thalaivi in South India soon.

READ: Ranvir Shorey Questions, 'Why Are People Trying To Shut Kangana Ranaut?'

Kangana Ranaut to resume Thalaivi shoot

Kangana Ranaut was over the moon as she not just clicked selfies to delight her fans, but also made the announcement about Thalaivi. The Tanu Weds Manu star termed it as a special day to be resuming shoot after seven months and travelling to Southern India. Calling the film, which is an adaptation of the life of late actor-former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalitha, her most ambitious bilingual project, she sought blessings for her safety amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Dear friends today is a very special day, resuming work after 7 months, travelling to southern India for my most ambitious bilingual project THALAIVI, need your blessings in these testing times of a pandemic.

P.S just clicked these morning selfies hope you all like them  pic.twitter.com/drptQUzvXK  Kangana Ranaut (@KanganaTeam) October 1, 2020

Kangana Ranaut's Thalaivi

The first look and the teaser of the movie had been released in November last year. The poster of a huge cutout of Kangana as Jayalalitha, and another short video tracing her rise from the world of glitz to the peak of the political ladder in TN, had become a talking point.

First look poster... Kangana Ranaut in #Jayalalitha biopic... Titled #Thalaivi... Directed by Vijay... Produced by Vishnu Induri and Shaailesh R Singh... 26 June 2020 release. #ThalaiviFirstLook pic.twitter.com/WIoJTOxM45  taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) November 23, 2019

First glimpse of #Jayalalitha biopic... Kangana Ranaut in #Thalaivi... Directed by Vijay... Produced by Vishnu Induri and Shaailesh R Singh... 26 June 2020 release. #ThalaiviFirstLook pic.twitter.com/idRfL6iLMW  taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) November 23, 2019

READ:In Hathras Gangrape, Kangana Ranaut Expresses Faith In Yogi; References Hyderabad Horror

Thalaivi, directed by Vijay, had been set for release in June this year, but the entire calendar has been affected due to the pandemic. However, as the government allowed a partial resumption of theatres with 50 per cent capacity on Wednesday, fans of Kangana can hope for the film's release soon.

Kanganas other ventures

Kangana Ranaut had also announced some weeks ago that she will starting the shooting for her film Tejas in December. The National Award-winner plays the role of a Indian Air Force pilot in the movie. Her other projects include action film Dhaakad, and a film she is planning to direct on the Ayodhya-Ram Mandir matter.

READ:Kangana Ranaut Claims 'BMC Threatening To Break Neighbours' Houses If They Support Me'

READ:Kangana Ranaut Posts Childhood Pic, Mentions How Fashion Is 'freedom Of Expression'
Creating "work bubbles" during the COVID-19 pandemic can help reduce the risk of company-wide outbreaks while helping essential businesses continue to function, as the example of Bombardier Aviation demonstrates in an analysis published in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal).

The need to keep essential businesses open during the pandemic has resulted in large outbreaks in factories and other locations where employees work in close proximity, jeopardizing the safety of employees and the community as well as disrupting supply chains.

Employers have a responsibility to provide a safe work environment for their employees. Creating company cohorts, or work bubbles, can reduce the risk of a company-wide COVID-19 outbreak that could affect the larger community." Dr. Jeffrey Shaw, Study Lead Author, Critical Care Physician and Fellow, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta

Bombardier Aviation example

The authors describe how Bombardier Aviation, a large Canadian company that employs 22 000 people at 7 factories across 4 provinces/states in Canada and the United States, adjusted to the pandemic. Most office staff worked from home, ensuring that only employees who built or supported aircraft delivery were on site. Essential employees were organized into cohorts that interacted only with each other to minimize contact with other staff.

Cohorts were organized on the principles that work bubbles should

Include the least number of people required to do the job

Be designed to allow business continuation if another work bubble is removed from the workforce

Be strictly separated from other bubbles in time and/or space to prevent virus transmission between groups.

Scheduling rotating workdays and disinfecting shared spaces after use by a work bubble can ensure physical separation of employees. Daily symptom screening and rapid isolation of infected employees is also key to containing and preventing outbreaks.

"Adjusting our operational activities to the pandemic was challenging, but we are extremely proud of how proactive and efficient our teams were in adapting to their new working conditions. Keeping our employees safe is our number one priority," says coauthor Nancy Barber, COO, Industrialization, Footprint and Central Planning, Bombardier Aviation.

Despite some challenges, work bubbles offer benefits including

Reducing the reproduction number of the disease

Increasing efficiency of contact tracing

Protecting employees from contracting severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) at work

Increasing employee confidence in workplace safety

Allowing for business to continue in the case of positive cases

"As we begin to relax the public health measures brought in to slow the spread of COVID-19 in Canada, we must think of how to limit the risk of becoming infected at work," says Dr. Shaw. "Using a work bubbles strategy can help businesses continue to function and ensure the safety of employees."

Listen to a podcast with coauthors Dr. Jeffrey Shaw and Hayley Wickenheiser discussing work bubbles and their practical application to factories, schools and sports.
AUSTIN  Texas Gov. Greg Abbott issued an order Thursday requiring counties to close multiple locations where voters can drop off completed mail-in ballots.

As an election security measure, counties will be limited to one dropoff site where poll watchers  designated by political parties and candidates  must be allowed to observe ballot deliveries by voters, Abbott said.

The new order takes effect Friday and modified Abbotts July 27 order that acknowledged the pandemics danger by adding six days of early voting and waiving a state law that limits mail-in ballot drop-off to Election Day only.

Democrats blasted the change as a thinly veiled effort to suppress votes in a tight election.

Republicans are on the verge of losing, so Gov. Abbott is trying to adjust the rules last minute, said Gilberto Hinojosa, chairman of the Texas Democratic Party.

Courts all over the country, including the 5th Circuit yesterday, have held that it is too late to change election rules, but our failed Republican leadership will try anyway, Hinojosa said in a statement. Gov. Abbott and Texas Republicans are scared. We are creating a movement that will beat them at the ballot box on Nov. 3, and theres nothing these cheaters can do about it.

Abbotts order came the same day Travis County, home to Austin, opened four drop-off locations as election officials worked to meet unprecedented demand for mail-in voting during the pandemic. Harris County, home to Houston, opened 12 locations Monday. In addition to being a convenience, the multiple drop-off sites were intended to alleviate concerns about the efficiency of the U.S. Postal Service.

At Travis Countys drive-thru sites, including three downtown, voters must deliver their own mail-in ballots after showing a photo ID and signing a roster.

Travis County Clerk Dana DeBeauvoir said she is looking into a legal challenge of Abbotts order, which she said arrived without warning and appeared intended to be disruptive  and it is.

Story continues

This is a deliberate attempt to manipulate the election, said DeBeauvoir, a Democrat.

Thus far, 71,000 Travis County voters have requested a mail-in ballot, a figure that could approach 100,000, easily dwarfing the 27,000 absentee ballots cast in the last presidential election, she said.

At one of the county dropoff sites on Airport Boulevard, Dora Hernandez, 71, was among a half-dozen voters who submitted a ballot during a 30-minute period in the late morning Thursday.

Hernandez said she was worried that her ballot would get lost in mail.

I actually considered voting in person, and even though Im a healthy person and I dont have any underlying issues, Im still an older woman and that worried me, she said. Thats the only reason I did it this way.

Democrats targeted?

Limiting the number of drop-off sites will affect large urban counties that are strongly Democratic or trending in that direction, and the Texas Democratic Party said Abbotts new order appeared targeted at a rising Texas electorate.

Its a miscalculation on Abbotts part, party spokesman Abhi Rahman said. Texas Democrats will crawl through broken glass to vote these cheaters out of office.

U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Austin, also predicted that the move will backfire. This sabotage is not about election security, it is about Republican political insecurity, he said.

But Abbott said he had a duty to voters and the state to take action to protect election integrity.

As we work to preserve Texans ability to vote during the COVID-19 pandemic, we must take extra care to strengthen ballot security protocols throughout the state. These enhanced security protocols will ensure greater transparency and will help stop attempts at illegal voting, Abbott said.

State Sen. Paul Bettencourt, R-Houston, said requiring poll watchers to observe ballot delivery was an important step.

It is essential that the public be able to trust in the integrity of the election system, and as a former elections official it is bewildering to me that any county clerk would resist having poll watchers present to watch election officials do their job under the Texas Election Code, Bettencourt said.

Gov. Greg Abbott, shown during a Sept. 24 news conference in Dallas, issued an order Thursday limiting counties to one dropoff location for mail-in ballots. [Juan Figueroa/The Dallas Morning News]

But Chris Hollins, Harris Countys Democratic clerk, and DeBeauvoir of Travis County said poll watchers were welcome at all drop-off locations.

Hollins said Abbotts change of heart will upend weeks of advertising that touted multiple drop-off locations in the states most populous county.

Going back on his word at this point harms voters and will result in widespread confusion and voter suppression, Hollins said via Twitter. To force hundreds of thousands of seniors and voters with disabilities to use a single drop-off location in a county that stretches over nearly 2,000 square miles is prejudicial and dangerous.

Republican pushback

Abbott modified his order amid discontent from the right wing of his party over the way he has handled the pandemic with orders closing businesses, requiring face masks in many parts of Texas and expanding early voting ahead of the Nov. 3 election.

Several GOP leaders  including Agriculture Secretary Sid Miller, Texas Republican Party Chairman Allen West, two state senators and four state House members  have asked the Texas Supreme Court to void Abbotts order that added six days of early voting and allowed mail-in ballots to be hand delivered before Election Day.

The Supreme Court has not yet ruled on the challenge, which argued that Abbotts order violates state law and the Texas Constitution and must be struck down.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY NETWORK: Texas mail-in ballot: Governor orders multiple drop-off sites closed
SARATOGA SPRINGS  Fridays Black Lives Matter protest  where outdoor diners on Phila Street were harangued while they ate -- has prompted the city to rethink how it will handle future marches.

Commissioner of Public Safety Robin Dalton said that the City Council will hold a special meeting at 4 p.m. Thursday at City Hall to announce new policies and procedures the Saratoga Springs police will follow to manage protesters they view as disrupting or harassing those moving about in the city.

Dalton, who didnt want to specifically comment on what will be announced, said she is responding to angry phone calls from business owners and a video she was given showing protesters who gathered near Maple Avenue and Phila Street. In the video, Jamaica Miles, founder of All of Us who supports Black Lives Matter protests throughout the region, used a bullhorn to challenge diners who lined the narrow street.

You all are really (expletive) comfortable out here having dinner, enjoying your lives as if the world is just going on, Miles told them.

She then reminded diners of the late Darryl Mount, the 22-year-old biracial man who died in 2014 after being pursued in a foot chase by Saratoga Springs police. At the time of the August 2013 incident, Mount was 21 and, police reported, found in an alley unconscious after falling from a scaffold. The incident never underwent an internal review.

Mounts family never believed the police version to be true because, Mounts mother said, the left side of her sons face was crushed. The family attorney also said the injuries to his head looked more consistent with a beating and not a fall.

You can have dinner. You can have drinks, Miles yelled at those seated at outdoor tables. Darryl Mount is dead. Saratoga Springs police department killed Darryl Mount seven years ago. Why? Because he is a black man.

On Sunday, Saratoga Springs police released a statement about the protest, saying it began at 5:30 p.m. in Congress Park. The marchers then took the streets at around 6:45 p.m. They ended their rally, police said, at 9 p.m. in Congress Park.

There were no arrests or known negative interactions between law enforcement and any of the protesters during the event, the statement from police read.

In a video she recorded on Monday and posted to the All of Us Facebook page, Miles admitted the protesters were loud.

We were yelling, Miles said. I was definitely cussing.

However, she said that the protesters want people to understand that the privilege they have to have dinner, to be out with friends, family and loved ones was indeed a privilege. Its one Darryl Mount and his family will never have because of the Saratoga police department.

Protests have become a regular part of the Spa City landscape since the murder of George Floyd, a Minneapolis man who was killed when a police officer kneeled on his neck for more than eight minutes. Early on, Police Chief Shane Crooks supported the protesters and took a knee at the first rally in Congress Park. But since then tensions have mounted and came to a head on July 30 after a Back the Blue rally. That night, protesters were dispersed with pepper-spray pellets deployed by the Saratoga County Sheriff's Office.

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.

More recently, Crooks has consistently said he's concerned that "someone will get hurt."

Terry Diggory, a member of the citys Police Reform Task Force, said he was at the Friday rally early on. He called it peaceful and other videos posted on All of Us Facebooks page also showed a quiet gathering. Diggory, who is also co-coordinator of Saratoga Immigration Coalition, said that the protesters that upset business owners demonstrates the city needs to balance everyones rights.

The police chief has said in the past, and I think hes quite right, that all members of the community have rights, Diggory said. You have to balance the rights of free expression on the part of protesters against the rights of other members of the community who wish to conduct their business in an open-air restaurant without be harassed. There needs to be an understanding between local officials and those attending a protest about the need to balance everybodys right.

Diggory also said that any new regulations put in place need to be very well crafted so they dont in advance interfere with the rights of protesters and should come from the community as a whole.

The business owners have stake in what happens downtown, the police have a stake in what happens downtown, the protesters have a stake in what happens downtown, Diggory said. The community process brings all the stakeholders together in a way that would put them in dialogue in a mutually satisfying mode of operating. We have to find a way that doesnt pit the business owners against the protesters or pit the protesters against the business owners. We have to say how together as a community we find solutions that are going to acknowledge that we are all responsible for maintaining the public safety of Saratoga Springs.
It seems that the long-awaited first-ever South African 5G (plus some 4G) auctions are finally set to take place.

South Africas telecommunications regulator, the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA), has now said it will invite mobile operators to apply to bid for spectrum for 4G and next generation 5G networks from 2 October. Though there hasnt been a specific date set, the auctions are expected to take place by the end of March.

According to Reuters, chairperson Keabetswe Modimoeng told journalists: The authority will make available 406 MHz of spectrum for the provision of mobile broadband services in South Africa.

The spectrum will be in the 700 MHz, 800 MHz, 2.6 GHz and 3.5 GHz bands. 3.5 GHz is seen as key for 5G and reserve prices for lots in this band range will start at around $588,000, rising to about $4.5 million.

This will be good news for many operators, who are convinced that more spectrum will allow them to bring down the cost of data  a major barrier, some argue, to expanding and making affordable broadband services in Africas most industrialised economy.

Interested bidders need to register by 28 December. Successful licensees of high-demand spectrum will be obliged to procure  after about seven years  a minimum of 30 percent national capacity from the WOAN, the governments wireless open access network. The WOAN aims to be a shared model for spectrum allocation rather than auctioning the resource to the highest bidder.

Now that a late March auction has been agreed, mobile operators will be allowed to keep the temporary spectrum awarded to them under the Covid-19 national state of disaster regulations for a few more months, rather than handing it over on 30 November.
MEXICO CITY (AP) --Mexico launched a special government guard force for mining operations Monday, admitting that drug cartels have preyed on the companies, many of which are foreign.

The first 118 mine guards graduated Monday from a special training course. They are equipped with assault rifles. Public Safety Secretary Alfonso Durazo said this will help resolve the attacks by organized crime in this sector of the economy.

Reports have long abounded that foreign gold and silver mines were being forced to make extortion payments to drug gangs. In past years, gangs have also stolen minerals or semi-refined metals directly from the mines.

In 2015, an organized crime gang robbed almost 10 pounds (4.5 kilograms) of gold-silver mix from employees at a large silver and gold mine in northern Mexico. The Fresnillo mining company said the robbery occurred near its Herradura mine in the border state of Sonora. The company said armed men pulled over a company truck and stole the metals. It said none of its employees were injured.

The company said the robbery was carried out by organized crime, a phrase usually used in Mexico to refer to drug cartels.

In the western state of Michoacan, the Knights Templar cartel and La Familia gang got involved in exporting shipments of iron ore between 2010 and 2014.

In 2018, Canadas Pan American Silver Corp. temporarily cut back some operations at its mine in northern Mexico due to safety concerns.

The company said employees have had security incidents on roads leading to the mine in a remote part of Chihuahua state, a region plagued by drug cartels. At one point employees were holed up at the mine, afraid to leave because of threats by armed groups and some employees were evacuated on private planes.

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UB awarded grant to help pharmacies build community health worker programs

Innovative program could lower costs for patients while helping them better access pharmacy services

David Jacobs, assistant professor in the UB School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences

Pharmacists are often considered to be the most accessible health care professional in the community, and gaining access to a community health worker can be a barrier to those in need. 

Christopher Daly, clinical assistant professor in the UB School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.

David Jacobs, assistant professor in the UB School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.

BUFFALO, N.Y.  University at Buffalo researchers have received a grant from the Community Pharmacy Foundation to help add community health workers to pharmacies to better connect patients to critical services and lower health care costs.

Community health workers are public health workers that serve as liaisons between health care services and the public. Not typically utilized in pharmacies, these frontline workers have the potential to improve patient care through community outreach and education, informal counseling, social support and advocacy.

Through the grant, investigators will develop a toolkit and payment model that guides pharmacies through embedding a community health worker program into practices, as well as analyze each programs impact.

The research  a collaboration between the UB School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, the Community Pharmacy Enhanced Services Networks (CPESN) USA, L&S Pharmacy in Charleston, Missouri, and Four Corners Pharmacy in Delmar, New York  is led by UB faculty members David Jacobs, PharmD, PhD, assistant professor of pharmacy practice, and Christopher Daly, PharmD, clinical assistant professor of pharmacy practice.

Pharmacists are often considered to be the most accessible health care professional in the community, and gaining access to a community health worker can be a barrier to those in need, said Jacobs. As pharmacies evolve, diverse support staff are needed to assist in patient care activities. Community health workers represent the perfect solution for many of these support needs, particularly in regards to complex patients with multiple health and behavioral conditions.

Additional investigators include Tripp Logan, PharmD, and Richard Logan, PharmD, co-owners and pharmacists at L&S Pharmacy; John Croce, co-owner and pharmacist at Four Corners Pharmacy; and Troy Trygstad, PharmD, PhD, executive director at CPESN.

The Community Pharmacy Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing pharmacy practice and patient care delivery through grant funding and resource sharing.

Start small and expand

In other health care settings, community health workers have helped improve health care quality while reducing costs. Health care systems save more than $2 for each dollar invested in a community health worker program, says Jacobs.

The positive impacts of community health worker programs also include reducing health disparities, expanding access to coverage and care, improving care quality and increasing health care cultural competence.

Existing programs are supported by four financing models: charitable foundations; Medicaid; federal, state or local governments; and private organizations.

Pharmacies commonly find that reimbursement for providing additional clinical services is challenging. A practical approach to obtaining reimbursement for community health worker programs may be a start small and expand model, where pharmacies obtain buy-in and patient engagement from their surrounding community, then expand that to county, region, state, then finally national stakeholders, says Daly.

For this model to expand, community pharmacies need to be educated about community health worker programs and provided with the necessary tools and templates to manage them, said Daly. A toolkit will provide interested pharmacies with evidence to support the program and the necessary infrastructure to start developing a local community health worker program.
A key witness in the case of alleged gang-rape of a 22-year-old Dalit woman from Balrampur district in Uttar Pradesh, who later succumbed to her injuries, has surfaced. He is a local doctor, who was first called to treat the victim by the two accused at a room behind a grocery store run by one of the accused in a nearby market.

The doctor told media persons that one of the accused visited his clinic to take him to his house to treat the victim, introducing her as a family member at around 5pm on Tuesday.

The doctor said he became suspicious after finding the victim lying alone on a sofa.

I returned immediately, stating that I will treat her only in the presence of her family members and started asking for her fathers name and contact number.

The youths then told me that they would bring the victim to the clinic with her father for the treatment, but they did not do so. Later, I came to know that she died, he stated.

The victims mother had earlier alleged that some youths had abducted her while she was returning home from the college and taken her to a room where she was raped and brutalised.

The incident occurred on Tuesday when the woman had gone to take admission in a college near her village but did not return home till late in the evening, said superintendent of police (SP) of Balrampur, Dev Ranjan Verma, who visited the victims family with the district magistrate (DM), Krishna Karunesh, on Thursday.

The woman later returned on a rickshaw with a glucose drip inserted in her hand while the family members were searching for her.

Verma said the family members stated that the womans condition was not good, so they rushed her to a nearby hospital and later to the Balrampur district hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries.

While the family alleged that the womans hands and legs were fractured, police officials stated that no such injuries were confirmed in the post-mortem examination.

The two accused were arrested after an FIR was registered following a complaint filed by the victims brother, officials said.

Also Read: Centre should impose Presidents rule in UP, says Mayawati over Hathras, Balrampur incidents

The victim was cremated on Wednesday night itself after a post-mortem examination by a panel of four doctors. The police claimed that the cremation was carried out by the family and villagers on their own.

According to the doctors account there was no glucose drip in the victims hand when he visited her at the room she was kept at by the accused. He added that the woman was complaining of stomach ache and was fully conscious. The police later recovered the victims sandals near the room.

Also Read: Hathras gangrape: BJP MP Hans Raj Hans wants strict actions against officials responsible for hasty cremation

DM Krishna Karunesh and SP Dev Ranjan Verma assured the family members that the case will be sent to a fast track court and the strictest action will be taken against the accused.

The DM handed over a permission letter for ex gratia relief of Rs 6, 18,750 to the victims father, assuring further help.

The accused were booked under sections 376-D and 302 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for gang-rape and murder respectively. Police officials quoted above added that further probe was on in the case.
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Linkedin Moch. Fiqih Prawira Adjie (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Fri, October 2 2020

The government will establish a joint team involving officials and members of the public to probe the recent killings in Papuas Intan Jaya regency, Coordinating Political, Legal and Security Affairs Minister Mahfud MD said on Thursday.

Mahfud added that the teams members would include government officials, academics as well as religious, community and customary leaders. The team would report its findings to President Joko Jokowi Widodo through the coordinating minister.

The government will form [this] joint investigation team that can be more objective in exploring [the killings], so as not to cause controversy, Mahfud said during a press conference on Thursday.

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BRUSSELS : Alphabet Inc.s Google will start paying select media outlets to display curated content on its news app in a concession to the industry which has accused the search engine and other tech giants of unfairly using content for years.

The company has set aside more than $1 billion to cover the programs first three years, and will extend the program beyond that, Google said in a statement on Thursday. The search giant will pay publishers to provide blurbs for its news app and to give readers free access to certain paywalled articles, Google said.

The Google News Showcase product, which launches Thursday in Brazil and Germany, will display branded story panels curated by partner publishers, allowing them to highlight their content using timelines, bullets and related news articles. Panels will also link directly to the news publishers website, Google said.

Google and Facebook Inc. have faced heat from news executives and regulators around the world whove urged the platforms to pay for the rights to host news articles. Publishers argue that their journalism is whats drawing users to those platforms, while the two tech giants are capturing most of the online ad dollars. Thursdays launch builds on a licensing program Google announced in June to pay publishers for high-quality content."

Google News Showcase lets publishers curate stories on the news that matters, develop deeper relationships with readers and provides a new revenue stream for essential reporting," Brad Bender, a Google vice president, said on a call with journalists.

More than 200 publications in Germany, Brazil, Argentina, Canada, the UK and Australia have signed up to the News Showcase program, with more markets to come, Google said in the statement.

Bender said the funding wouldnt be able to cover all news organizations also because not all publishers produce the volume and type of content necessary for this product." Google is deciding who to partner with on a market-by-market basis, with a focus on newspapers or sources with established audiences, as well as significant local and regional news outlets, he said.

Licensing fees will be structured as a flat fee over a period of time and will be negotiated depending on the amount of content the publisher provides, Google said.

With News Showcase and the new integration of editorial content of media like Der Spiegel, Google shows that they are serious about supporting quality journalism in Germany," Stefan Ottlitz, head of product development at Der Spiegel, said in an email.

But not all publishers are convinced of Googles new program. By launching a product, they can dictate terms and conditions, undermine legislation designed to create conditions for a fair negotiation, while claiming they are helping to fund news production," said Angela Mills Wade, Executive Director of the European Publishers Council, referring to an EU copyright directive that allows news outlets to seek payment from internet sites that display their articles.

Google said News Showcase will first launch on its Android app and later on iOS, Discover and search services. News Showcase content wont get preferential ranking or display in the app or search results.

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OCEANA COUNTY, MI  In the middle of the night, a father saw what appeared to be a mans legs in his pre-teen daughters bed.

The male bolted. The dad called police.

The July 23 encounter would be the start of a multi-agency investigation into allegations that the girl was sexually assaulted by several men. Police say they uncovered evidence that men would sneak her out through a bedroom window, give her alcohol and drugs and sexually assault her.

She was allegedly threatened if she told anyone. She believed there were videos she wouldnt want anyone to see, police said.

This is bad, Oceana County Sheriff Craig Mast said.

He said those in the rural community where the girl lived had a false sense of security, living far from bigger cities.

Andy Soper, founder of Wedgwood Christian Services' Manasseh Project, a shelter for sexually exploited girls, said: People say, It can happen anywhere. My first thought is, No, it does happen everywhere. It does."

The girl and her family likely have a difficult recovery, he said.

She may be feeling, Now, everybody knows. Its extremely isolating. People dont know who the girl is but shes going to think they do," he said.

Soper said the parents could feel shame and confusion, like those in the Larry Nassar case where he molested young athletes with their parents in the room.

So far, police have identified five suspects, with alleged sex assaults occurring in Oceana and Muskegon counties. The male who fled the home when startled by the father was actually a 16-year-old who has not been accused of any crimes, authorities said.

In Oceana County, Dwight Bernard McKinney, 17, of Muskegon, is charged with three counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct, a potential life offense. Robert Iree Mallard, 22, of Muskegon, is charged with a single count of first-degree criminal-sexual conduct.

Mallards case has been bound over for trial in Oceana County Circuit Court. McKinney awaits a preliminary examination in Oceana County District Court.

In Muskegon County, Jermaine Chapman, 24, of Muskegon, is charged with first-degree criminal sexual conduct, second-degree criminal sexual conduct and possession of child sexually abusive materials. Quontravius Moffett, 19, of Muskegon, is charged with third-degree criminal-sexual conduct, a potential 15-year felony.

Both await preliminary examinations.

Moffetts attorney, Brent Geers, and Chapmans attorney, John Beason, both said they are in the process of reviewing evidence for the upcoming hearing.

Another suspect is held in the Muskegon County Jail and has not made his initial court appearance in Oceana County.

Oceana County Prosecutor Joseph Bizon said it is unusual to have so many defendants with a single alleged victim.

The girl met one of the suspects through social media. Her information was shared with others, testimony showed. The case showed the importance of monitoring childrens social media accounts and electronic devices, Bizon said.

Mast, the Oceana County sheriff, said police recovered video evidence but he did not want to disclose the contents.

He requested assistance from state police and FBI as the investigation unfolded. He said that police discovered through the girls statements and digital evidence that she would sneak out of the house through her bedroom window and leave with the men.

The fortunate thing is the (electronic) evidence is recoverable, he said.

He thinks there are other victims. He said predators frequently target children on the internet.

State police detective Sgt. Matt Nobliski, who investigated the Muskegon-area cases, said police in both counties have put a lot of time and effort into the investigation, which continues.

He asked anyone with information to contact Silent Observer at 231-722-7463.

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Jogger who hears fatal gunshots becomes target, testimony shows
Prior to the 1884/85 Berlin Conference which led to the invasion and colonization of West Africa, the region presently known as Nigeria was diversified and governed according to the various ethnic groups by different traditional/cultural (political) systems ranging from chiefdoms to monarchies and imperialism.

In the North, there was a continuous transition from imperial regime to another as each new conquest instituted a change in leadership. From the Songhai Empire to the Kanem Bornu Empire, each new victory in conquest resulted in a change in leadership for as long as centuries. The Fula jihads of Usman Dan Fodio led to the rise of the conservative Fulani Empire and establishment of the Sokoto Caliphate, with the defeat and colonization of surrounding Hausa Kingdoms (such as Nupe, Kwararafa, etc) and emirates. The conquest bid headed towards the south but was stalled by swamps and water bodies separating the north from its southern neighbors.

In the core South, the most prominent system of governance was monarchy, with the Kingdom of Benin being the most notable in the region. Alongside chiefs, elders and religious/traditional leaders, the Oba (King of Benin) ruled over residents and people of the kingdom. The West, presently known as Yorubaland and bordered by the Benin kingdom, had a similar system of governance. The Oyo Empire, adopting the governing system of the Ife people, consisted of various small city-states under a monarchial system.

The city-states were governed by traditional leaders who paid homage to the Alaafin (King) of Oyo. The authority of the king was subdued to ethical checks by a state council known as the Oyo Mesi. Governance in most communities of the core Eastern region was based on a title system or chiefdom. The council of elders/chiefs (made up of custodians of renowned traditional titles), alongside the traditional/chief priest, made decisions regarding governance in the various communities. In communities (on the banks of the region) such as Aboh, Onitsha, Oguta, the system of monarchy was used in governance with the leader known as Obi (which translates to heart in Igbo Language).

The aftermath of the Napoleonic wars was heralded by an expansion bid by powerful European countries ensuing in the scramble for territories and colonies in Africa (then referred to as the Dark Continent). Britain received international recognition for its claims over West Africa.

A charter was issued in 1885 to the Royal Niger Company, under the leadership of Sir George Taubman Goldie. On December 31 1899, the charter was revoked by the British Government. A compensation of was paid to the company and it transferred ownership of the territory (known as present day Nigeria) to the British Government.

The western, eastern and southern areas were referred to as the Southern Nigeria Protectorate while the northern area was referred to as the Northern Nigeria Protectorate. The Protectorates were governed between 1900 and 1914 by British High Commissioners/Governors, who reported to the British monarchy. On January 1 1914, under then Governor Sir Frederick Lugard, both protectorates were merged to form the Colony and Protectorate of Nigeria. Sir Frederick Lugard became the first Governor-General, following the amalgamation. The decision of the amalgamation was made by 28 individuals, consisting of 22 British citizens and only 6 Nigerians. The Nigerian signatories to the amalgamation were:

i) HRH Maiturare Sarkin Mussulumi (Sultan of Sokoto)

ii) Usman dan Mahe (who later became Emir of Kano)

iii) Sir Kitoyi Ajasa, a lawyer

iv) HRH Oladugbolu (Alaafin of Oyo)

v) HRH R Henshaw (Obong of Calabar)

vi) Abubakar Shehu of Borno

Several powerful leaders (from the southern and eastern regions) such as Oba of Benin, Obi of Onitsha, Eze Nri, were intentionally excluded from the decision making due to their resistance and opposition of the British rule. Religious and ethnical/cultural diversities made it very difficult for the merger of administrative sectors of governance; hence the Northern and Southern provinces of the Colony and Protectorate of Nigeria continued under different administrations.

The aftermath of World War II came with continental struggle for independence by several colonies. This resulted the granting of a Federation status to Colony and Protectorate of Nigeria by the British government, leading to it becoming the Federation of Nigeria on the October 1 1954. Prior to granting the federation status to Nigeria, in March 1953, the late Sultan of Sokoto (who became Premier of the defunct Northern region), Sir Ahmadu Bello, told the Parliament that the 1914 amalgamation of the Northern and Southern Protectorates was a mistake and the northern region will not like to proceed further with the accord. Diverse opinions on the independence of Nigeria as a country led to the earliest recorded ethno-religious in May 1953. The riots, which occurred in Sabon Gari, Kano, were between Northerners (who were anti-independence) and Southerners (who were pro-independence).

A renowned Northern politician, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa (who later became the first Prime Minister of Nigeria), had also on several occasions voiced his criticism of the amalgamation. On an occasion, he said the Southern people, who are swarming into this region are really intruders. We dont want them and they are not welcome here in the North. Since the amalgamation in 1914, the British Government has been trying to make Nigeria into one country, but the Nigerian people are different in every way including religion, custom, language and aspiration. The fact that were all Africans might have misguided the British Government. We, here in the North, take it that Nigerian unity is not for us. On two other occasions, he proclaimed Nigeria existed as a country only on paper. It is still far from being united. Nigerian unity is only a British intention for the country and We do not want, Sir, our southern neighbours to interfere in our development. I should like to make it clear that to you that if the British quitted Nigeria now at this stage, the northern people would continue their uninterrupted conquest to the sea. The latter statement was made with reference of the intent of the Northern region to continue its Fula jihad bid of capturing and colonizing the Southern region.

The prominent Yoruba politician and philosopher, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, affirmed that Nigeria is not a nation; it is a mere geographic expression. In 1956, the last British Governor-General of Nigeria, Sir James Wilson Robertson, wrote The general outlook of the people [Northerners] is so different from those in Southern Nigeria as to give them practically nothing in common. There is less difference between an Englishman and an Italian, both of whom have a common civilization based on Greek and Roman foundations and on Christianity, than between a Muslim villager in Sokoto, Kano or Katsina, and an Igbo, Ijaw and Kalabari. How can any feeling of common purpose of nationality be built up between people whose culture, religion and mode of living is so completely different?.

Despite severe criticism and knowledge of the difference in fundamental languages, ethnical/cultural, religious and behavioural patterns between the Northern and Southern regions of Nigeria, the British government proceeded to grant independence on October 1 1960 to the merger of both regions as a country Nigeria. Since independence, the animosity has been very evident in the level of tolerance between the northern and southern parts of Nigeria. Ethno-religious clashes and massacres have been recorded in Jos, Kaduna, Borno, Kano, etc. The 1966 military coup, spearheaded by Igbo officers Kaduna Chukwuma Nzeogwu and Emmanuel Ifeajuna, which resulted in the death of notable Northern leaders such as the Prime Minister of Nigeria, Alhaji Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, and the Sultan of Sokoto and Premier, Sir Ahmadu Bello. The take-over of the government by the then General Officer Commanding of the Nigerian Army, Gen. Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi (who was of Igbo origin), raised the speculation that the coup was a conspiracy for an Igbo ascent to power. This led to the counter-coup, masterminded by Lt. Col. Murtala Muhammed and many Northern military officers. Following the coups, ethno-religious tensions led to clashes resulting in the massacre of several innocent Igbo soldiers and civilians. The continuous massacre of people led to the secession of the Eastern region with the then military governor Lt. Col. Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu declaring the region as Republic of Biafra on May 1967. This led to a civil war beginning on July 6 1967 and ending on January 15 1970. The war lasted for 2 years, 6 months, 1 week and 2 days, resulting to the death of about 3 million people with about 2 million Biafran civilians dying of starvation.

The aftermath of the war has been heralded with cries of marginalization of the Southern region, especially those of the Eastern area. This has caused demands by various ethnical groups for the split of Nigeria. This has led to the establishment of several organizations such as Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP), Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC), etc; all bordering on the issues of secession and political autonomy. These calls and movements have been met with staunch resistance by present Northern leaders, making it ironic that the region that initially fought the amalgamation of the Northern and Southern Protectorates is currently resisting a de-amalgamation. The major economic base (oil) has also been a factor in the calls for regional attention by certain ethnic groups in Nigeria. Prior to the civil war, on February 23 1966, a young man by name Isaac Jasper Adaka Boro, of Ijaw ethnic group, established an armed militia group Niger Delta Volunteer Force, declared the Niger Delta Republic and fought with federal forces for twelve days before accepting defeat. Recently, some Yoruba people began agitations for an autonomous nation referred to as Oduduwa Republic. A global wave of secessions and independence have been ongoing in Catalonia from Spain, Ambazonia from Cameroon, Scotland from UK, Iraqi Kurdistan, Azawad from Mali, Somaliland from Somalia, Bougainville from Papua New Guinea, etc.

Several questions have risen from the secession agitations and demands:

i) Can Nigeria split up diplomatically and without war or fighting?

ii) In the event of a spilt, would it be into two, three or more nations (based on agitations by various ethnic groups)?

iii) Will the North continue with their Fula jihad conquest after a split?

iv) What role with the international community play in the event of a split?

The political tussle in the presidency election has also continued to play a role in deepening the rift between the regions and ethnic groups in the country. Also, the people of Northern Nigeria have been favoured more with appointments and recruitments into federal positions, as compared to their counterparts from other regions of the nation. Recently, the Vice President of Nigeria Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, while addressing Nigerias unity at a commemoration church service of her 60th Independence anniversary said that there are obvious cracks that could lead to a break if not properly addressed. He called for consistent focus and prayers to tackle these issues.

However, even with the offering of prayers, if urgent, lasting policies and structures are not put in place to address the issues of equal access to judicial, political, social and educational facilities, a time may come when it would be too late for diplomatic resolutions.

Happy Independence Day/New Month to all Nigerians nationwide and in diaspora.

God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria!

By Agwah Michael

(Founder 247NewsUpdate Blog, Researcher, Human Rights Activist, Social Critic and Political Analyst)
The Australian Council of Trade Unions last week issued an anxious plea for the federal Liberal-National government and employer representatives to prolong their confidential talks with union bureaucrats in order to finalise reforms of workplace conditions.

For four months now, trade union leaders have been closeted away in five industrial relations (IR) working groups with the government and business chiefs, at the invitation of Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

At the same time, they have worked together to keep a lid on unrest amid the worst mass unemployment since the 1930s Great Depression and to enforce returns to work in unsafe conditions despite the spiralling global COVID-19 pandemic that has resulted from the same corporate profit drive.

Behind a veil of secrecy, the union chiefs have been discussing how to keep suppressing working-class opposition as impoverishment deepens, while they exploit the pandemic to help impose the destruction of thousands of jobs and the decimation of workers wages and basic conditions.

Various tactical differences, however, caused the talks to fail to meet their deadline last week to present their proposals to the government. In response, ACTU secretary Sally McManus appealed for the backroom bargaining to continue in a new phase of bilateral meetings between the various parties and the Morrison government.

In her media release, McManus pleaded: We remain hopeful that an agreement can be reached which will benefit working people and the national interest. She said it was necessary to reach common ground at a time of unprecedented national crisis.

By the national interest, McManus means the interests of the ruling capitalist class, which is intent on further restructuring the economy at the expense of the working-class as the government cuts JobKeeper wage subsidies and JobSeeker dole payments to poverty levels to coerce workers into low-paid work on worse conditions.

Pledging to keep all the details hidden from workers, McManus criticised some employer groups for publicly opposing aspects of the deals being struck with the unions. [I]t has become obvious that a number of employer lobby groups no longer wish to respect the confidentiality agreement or engage with this process in good faith, she complained.

According to media reports, Industrial Relations Minister and Attorney-General Christian Porter is now conducting informal talks with select unions and employers in the hopes of getting agreements over the line after formal discussions ended without clear consensus.

If the last-minute talks fail to achieve agreement among the parties, Porter said the government would take ideas from each working group and try and build them into a product that can A) grow jobs and B) make its way through parliament.

Some working groups got close to agreement. McManus reportedly finalised a deal with Business Council of Australia chief executive Jennifer Westacott, representing the largest companies. They proposed to axe the supposed better off overall test (BOOT) for registering a workplace pay deal, clearing the way for enterprise agreements to openly reduce the conditions of workers.

In return, union-negotiated agreements would be fast-tracked through the Fair Work Commissionthe federal industrial tribunal. This would further entrench the unions as the ruling elites preferred mechanism for enforcing cuts to conditions via enterprise bargaining and anti-strike laws.

BOOT has done nothing to prevent countless union-imposed agreements that have lowered wages, slashed conditions and facilitated job destruction. However, it became the basis for several legal challenges to sweetheart deals between the unions and major companies, especially in the fast food and supermarket industries.

The abolition of BOOT would remove any impediment, no matter how contrived and cosmetic, to sweeping attacks on jobs and conditions in new union enterprise agreements.

The prioritising of union deals also would take to a new level the corporatist partnership established between the unions and the employers under the Accords of the Hawke and Keating Labor governments of 1983 to 1996.

However, various employer groups, including Master Builders Australia, which represents construction companies, objected to preference being given to union agreements, demanding equal fast-tracking for non-union deals.

Another deal close to consummation is designed to reverse a court ruling that gave some regular casuals access to annual leave and other entitlements reserved for permanent workers, which could cost businesses $40 billion.

Business leaders, the corporate media and the government had denounced the ruling, saying it would reduce employers flexibility to keep their staff on insecure work arrangements and cripple firms struggling with the pandemic.

In the casuals working group, the unions reportedly felt optimistic they could strike a bargain after the small business lobby split from other employers to back a potential compromise. Casuals would get a chance to convert to permanent employment after a set period, perhaps nine months, and in return forgo back pay claims.

Leaks to the media indicated that the unions rejected the proposal because it would only give workers the opportunity to ask for a permanent job, which employers could too easily decline. Nevertheless, there was general agreement around the concepts, one source told reporters.

In the group dealing with simplification of industrial awards, Council of Small Business Organisations of Australia (COSBOA) chief executive Peter Strong told the media that his groups proposal was still in the mix.

COSBOA proposed a series of 24 schedules that would allow small businesses greater workforce flexibility. Businesses with fewer than 40 employees could pay a single weekday and weekend pay rate, effectively scrapping after-hours penalty rates, and hire part-time workers without paying overtime rates.

The compliance group reportedly failed to reach agreement after unions sought higher penalties for underpayment of workers. The group discussing four-year union-enforced agreements on new work sites apparently could not agree on the size of projects to qualify for such an agreement, which would prohibit industrial action.

Whether or not all the deals are ultimately finalised, the unions will step up their collaboration with the government and big business. They will intensify the attacks on workers pay and conditions in response to the unprecedented national crisis produced by the pandemic and the worldwide economic crash.

That record is already clear. As soon as the pandemic erupted in March, the ACTU rushed to help the government allow employers to scrap basic conditions under the JobKeeper subsidy, even as big business took the lions share of the hundreds of billions of dollars handed out under the scheme and other corporate bailout packages.

In addition, without any consultation with their members, the unions rapidly organised the gutting of pay and conditions for millions of workers in the retail, hospitality and clerical industries.

For her services in supervising these assaults, McManus was personally thanked by Morrison and Porter, who proclaimed her his BFF (best friend forever). Once falsely promoted as a militant when she was installed as ACTU boss in 2017, McManus became the darling of the media. The Murdoch-owned Australian congratulated her for having recognised the merit of employer concerns.

This is no aberration produced by the pandemic. The close personal relations between the unions, employers and government take to new depths the decades-long role of the unions as a ruthless industrial police force, first displayed under Hawke and Keating.

Amid growing social inequality, unsafe conditions and widespread impoverishment, the unions and their best friends know that the scene is set for the eruption of major working-class battles. The essential issue for workers is to mobilise independently, against the unions, as well as the governments and the corporate elite. That requires a socialist program to reorganise society on the basis of human need, not corporate profit and private wealth.
A Sharadhaa By

Express News Service

Director AMR Ramesh is coming up with a multi-lingual web series on forest brigand Veerappan, for which shooting is currently going on at brisk pace. With Kishore reprising the role of Veerappan, the team will complete 36 days of shooting, and now have on board, B-Town hero, Suniel Shetty.

In an earlier interview, the Attahasa director had mentioned that he is in talks with the Pailwaan actor, which now stands confirmed. Suniel Shetty will be playing the role of a police officer, Shankar Bidari for the series. He will be joining the sets this month for a 25-30 day schedule, says Ramesh, who is glad to have him as part of the project.

The director also mentions that he plans to bring in actor Vivek Oberoi, and is currently in talks with the actors father, Suresh Oberoi. Along with Kishore, the actors who worked in Rameshs film Attahasa are also a part of the web series. They include Ravi Kale, Sampath, Raai Laxmi, Viayalakshmi, and Suchendra Prasad. The 10-episode-web series, made under AMR Pictures, will have music by Vijai Shankar with two DOPS  Vijay Milton and Vaidy S  handling the cinematography.
A retired judge, Hezekiah Solanke, has sued the Ogun State Government for the non-payment of his benefits after service.

The claimant retired from service in February 2017 at the age of 62 years.

The former judge in a suit at the National Industrial Court of Nigeria, Ibadan, Oyo State, named the Ogun State governor and the states attorney-general as defendants.

The suit is scheduled for further hearing next week.

The claimant said he was employed into the Ogun State Judiciary as a Senior Magistrate Grade 1, on February 4, 1992.

Mr Solanke said on July 1, 1996, he was promoted to the post of Chief Magistrate, and equally promoted to Chief Magistrate Grade 1, on April 23, 1998.

He said on May 17, 1999, he got promoted to the post of Chief Registrar.

The claimant further said he was appointed a judge of the Ogun State High Court with effect from October 27, 2004, and was issued with certificate of appointment to that effect.

He then retired from the service via a letter dated February 3, 2017.

Mr Solanke also said he had written a distress letter to the 1st defendant (governor), following the nonpayment of his pension and gratuity.

The claimants retirement from service took effect from 4th day of May, 2017. From the 4th day of May, 2017,to 31st day of May 2017, the claimant is entitled to the sum of N1,185,152,39k. The reason was that three day is out of 31 days in the month of May, 2017, the suit read.

That the defendants did not pay the claimant his monthly pension from 1st day of June, 2017 to 31st day of January,2018, a period of 8 months which is calculated thus; N1,312,133 .00k multiply by 8 months will amount to N10,497,064,00k, it added.

Prayers

The retired prayed the court to issue an order directing the defendants to pay the sum of N1,185,152;39k, and an order directing the defendants to pay the sum of N10,497,064.00k owed him as pension for a period of eight months from 1st June to 31st January, 2018.

He also wants an order of court directing the defendants to pay the sum of N500,000 being the responsibility allowance deducted from the claimants pension monthly from 1st February 2018 till the time judgment is delivered.

An order of the court directing the defendants to pay the sum of N150,395;00 being his accommodation allowance deducted from the claimants monthly pension from December 2018 till the time judgment is delivered.

An order of court directing the defendants to pay the sum of N5, 414,220.00 being furniture allowance for a period of four years. An order of court directing the defendants to pay the sum of N47, 236,788.00 being the claimants gratuity due to him.

The sum of N15, 000.000 as general damages for failure to pay his pension for a period of eight months from 1st day of June 2017 to 31st day of January, 2018 without any justification and his gratuity (3) years after his retirement.
Two soldiers got martyred and four got injured in ceasefire violation done by Pakistani troops at LoC in Kupwara district of North Kashmir on Thursday (October 1).

According to sources, Pakistan violated ceasefire along LoC in Nougam sector of Kupwara district on Thursday morning. The injured soldiers were evacuated to Army hospital for advance treatment.

In a statement, Srinagar-based defence PRO Col Kalia said, Pakistan initiated an unprovoked Ceasefire Violation along LoC in Naugam Sector, Kupwara today morning by firing mortars & other weapons. Two soldiers fatal. Four soldiers injured, being evacuated.Befitting response is being given.

The forward area is in strict cordon and searches are also launched to monitor if there is any intruder who under the ceasefire violation could have crossed the LoC.

On Wednesday too, Pakistan violated ceasefire in Mankot sector of Poonch area of Jammu. An Indian Army jawan was martyred in that ceasefire violation too.

Live TV

Its the third ceasefire violation done by Pakistan in the last 24 hours in Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan is having only motive behind ceasefire violations to push more and more intruders this side before winter sets," said an Army officer. He added that Indian soldiers are fully prepared to tackle any kind of situation.
(Photo : Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) A member of the media inspects the new iPhone 4 at the 2010 Apple World Wide Developers conference June 7, 2010 in San Francisco, California. Apple CEO Steve Jobs kicked off their annual WWDC with the announcement of the new iPhone 4. (Photo : Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) Visitors inspect the new iPhone XR during an Apple special event at the Steve Jobs Theatre on September 12, 2018 in Cupertino, California. Apple released three new versions of the iPhone and an update Apple Watch.

Apple is now speeding up the production period for its upcoming iPhone 12 model. Workers are now getting bonuses for staying months in production units, making them work for 24 hours a day, and introducing mandatory overtime for workers. Here's how much Apple pays to its production workers in the Foxconn plant.

Apple pressures production units for upcoming iPhone 12 deadline

In an exclusive report from South China Morning Post, Apple reportedly pays each iPhone 12 production worker an $880/per month salary.

A salary bonus worth over $1,000 will be added once the worker stayed in the production unit for at least 90 days. Nearly $100 will be included if workers refer a new worker for the production.

This is the current salary status of all working units in the iPhone 12 production team in China's biggest Foxconn plant, according to one of their employees Wang Guofeng.

He revealed in an interview with SCMP that iPhone 12 production in the biggest Foxconn plant has been running at maximum capacity.

"You can earn 5,000 yuan to 6,000 yuan (US$880) per month, and if you work at the factory for more than 90 days, there's a handsome amount of special pay," said the 33-year-old who has worked at the factory for over four years.

Another employee, surnamed Ma, said the company had started night shifts, with production lines running 24 hours a day.

"We have been kept so busy for the past weeks because of the iPhone 12," Ma said, referring to the new model that is expected to be unveiled next month.

In exchange for the 'handsome' salary, workers need to stay in the production unit for at least 90 days or work for 24 hours a day. Each of them reportedly only has four days per month to take a day off.

The report also revealed that Apple had introduced mandatory overtime to all workers in the production unit, even suggesting for them to skip the eight-day national holiday in China starting on Oct. 1.

Once they comply, workers will receive overtime bonuses or special pay.

When will Apple release iPhone 12

As of now, there are still no official dates for the release of the iPhone 12 series model. However, several reports already guessed the possible dates of its release, around Oct. 13 or 14.

This might be the reason why Apple is now pushing its workers in China to maximize the production period.

After all, the company already delayed its original iPhone release dates on the 2nd week of September.

iPhone 12 series: What to expect

No one still knows the exact models that will be released (possibly) on the 2nd week of October. Some say that only the iPhone 12 mini will be released on these dates.



Apple is expected to release iPhone 12 mini: 5.4-inch, iPhone 12: 6.1-inch, iPhone 12 Pro: 6.1-inch, iPhone 12 Pro Max: 6.7-inch.

This article is owned by Tech Times

Written by Jamie Pancho

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Coronary artery disease - a leading cause of death in the US - narrows or blocks arteries that carry a vital supply of blood, oxygen, and nutrients to the heart. A stent can be inserted to widen the artery, but these devices must be closely monitored to ensure that they do not re-narrow, a common complication called restenosis.

Youngjae Chun, PhD, associate professor of industrial engineering and bioengineering at the University of Pittsburgh's Swanson School of Engineering, will lead a study to develop an electronic stent that can be implanted in a minimally invasive procedure and measure significant physiological changes with the development of restenosis. The device will provide real-time monitoring to help prevent subsequent heart attack or stroke.

The project, funded by the National Institutes of Health, is in collaboration with W. Hong Yeo, PhD, assistant professor of mechanical engineering at Georgia Tech and John Pacella, MD, cardiologist at UPMC, who also holds a secondary appointment in bioengineering.

This work is a continuation of the group's 2019 Innovative Project Award from the American Heart Association.

"Though similar devices already exist, they are typically bulkier and do not work as effectively with the growth of artery tissue," said Chun.

This new device has an ultra-low profile sensor, which allows it to work without a battery and wirelessly monitor the restenosis progress. They believe that this device can easily integrate with commercially available stents without disturbing its functionality. With this design, users will be able to see real-time data on a smart device, rather than scheduling endless follow-up visits to the doctor.

The group will use computational modeling and calculation to carefully design the device, and then it will then be fabricated using a novel nanoscale printing technique. Once it is developed, they will evaluate the design in vitro to determine its functionality with a stent.

Previous sensors are only able to monitor stents for a few days or weeks after the implant procedure, but their design will be able to continuously monitor, providing a unique, long-term solution.
UNITED NATIONS, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- French President Emmanuel Macron was philosophical on Wednesday in his appeal for global efforts to reverse biodiversity loss, saying biodiversity is the life insurance of humans.

The protection of nature raises the fundamental ethical issue of the protection of human beings. Above all, the protection of biodiversity is the protection of ecosystems, he told the UN Biodiversity Summit.

"I do not believe that the right of any other living creature is higher than a human right. But I do not believe in the effectiveness of preserving human rights without preserving the ecosystems in which we live. For me, this is the philosophical and ethical basis of this battle for biodiversity. This is why this new challenge must be the occasion for a collective awakening," Macron said.

Scientists have long been alerting about the risks of the appearance of new infectious diseases due to deforestation and the poaching of wild species, by showing the very close links between human, animal and environmental health. The COVID-19 pandemic reminds that biodiversity is the life insurance of humans. "When it is weakened, our health security and our economic security are at stake," said Macron.

He stressed the need to step up the fight against environmental crime, and to put a definitive end to all illegal activities that endanger nature, destroy ecosystems, feed corruption, hinder the development of the rule of law and, ultimately undermine the sustainable development of humanity.

Macron also called for the transformation of the current models of production, trade and consumption, "because it is illusory to think that the development of societies can be based on a production model that destroys living creatures and therefore, ultimately, of our common health and prosperity."

He called for public investment to enable the transformation. The French recovery plan will devote more than 1 billion euros (1.17 billion U.S. dollars) to biodiversity and the fight against land degradation, he said.

If 2020 is the year of awareness, 2021 must be the year of action, said Macron.

France will mobilize for the adoption of an ambitious new global strategic framework for the protection of biodiversity at next year's UN Biodiversity Conference in Kunming, China, he said.

"Like the Paris Agreement on climate change, we would like this agreement to include quantified and measurable commitments, as well as a clear implementation and accountability mechanism," he said.

In this spirit, France has already set itself ambitious objectives by taking the lead, alongside Costa Rica, of a coalition aiming to protect 30 percent of the land and maritime species of the planet in the next decade, including 10 percent that would benefit from reinforced protection, he said.

He invited all states to join this coalition and affirmed his determination to mobilize the international community at the highest level and deliver for the first time a message of common ambition in response to the three challenges of climate crisis, loss of biodiversity and land degradation.
gold silver metals

COMEX gold trades mixed near USD 1890/oz after a 0.4 percent decline on September 30. Gold witnessed a sharp rebound after taking support near USD 1850/oz level but the price is struggling to hold above the key USD 1900/oz level. Mixed trade in equity markets and the US dollar has led to choppy trade in gold as well.

Financial markets are volatile as market players await more clarity on US stimulus deal, UK-EU Brexit negotiations and whether increasing virus cases especially in Europe may result in another lockdown. US policymakers have increased efforts to reach a consensus on size and scope of the stimulus package, however, uncertainty will prevail until a decision is reached.

Virus cases continue to rise forcing countries to impose more restrictions however most countries would want to avoid complete lockdowns owing to its economic implication. Market players are also worried that the US Presidential election could be a close contest after both Presidential candidates sparred vigorously in the first debate earlier this week.

The US dollar index was mixed yesterday as support from upbeat economic data was offset by reduced safe-haven buying. US ADP jobs report, Q2 GDP growth estimate, Chicago PMI and pending home sales data released yesterday was well above market expectations. Lack of direction is also evident from ETF flows.

Gold holdings with SPDR ETF were unchanged for a second day at 1268.888 tonnes. Gold has retreated after testing the USD 1900/oz level and while choppy trade is likely, the general weakness in US dollar may continue to support gold prices.

COMEX Silver reversed early losses to trade modestly higher near USD 23.6/oz level. Silver trades mixed today after a sharp 3.9 percent decline yesterday. Silver came under pressure yesterday as gold retreated from recent highs on the back of improved risk sentiment. ETF outflows also show weaker investor buying interest at current levels.

Silver holdings with iShares ETF fell by 46.3 tonnes to 17079.43 tonnes, second consecutive decline and the lowest level in a week. However, supporting silver price is improving outlook for industrial demand amid some upbeat US and Chinese economic data.

Silver may witness choppy trade as gold and industrial metals struggle for direction while investor buying remains low however we may see buying interest emerging at lower amid general strength in gold prices.

Base metals on LME trade in a narrow range in early trades today after noting mixed movement yesterday. The metals pack is witnessing choppy movement amid lack of fresh cues as the Chinese market are closed for weeklong holiday in observance of National Day; trading will resume on 8 October. Furthermore mixed factors on macro front too have led to choppy movement in base metals.

On a positive note, metals continue to seek support from demand optimism from top consumer China along with recent retreat in the US Dollar Index. In top consumer China, a recent spate of positive data indicates improving pace of economic recovery in the region which in turn fans demand optimism from the region.

Data from the nation yesterday showed that factory activity continued to expand at a faster pace in September. The gains may, however, be capped amid lingering worries due to surging virus cases globally and a slowdown in the global recovery. On the virus front, global virus cases continue to rise with fears growing over the second wave of infections across European nations.

Furthermore, on the fundamental front, copper prices may seek support from lower stocks at SHFE warehouses and decline in copper production from Chile. As per Reuters report, Copper output in Chile, the worlds top producer of the red metal, fell 5.5 percent year-on-year to 489,461 tonnes in August. However huge build-up in stocks at LME warehouses in past three days along with flipping of LME Cash to three-month spread from backwardation to contango may cap the upside.

Copper stocks at LME have risen by 91,975 tonnes in past three sessions having more than doubled from last week. For the day, the metals pack may witness mixed movement amid mixed cues, however, overall bias for most may be positive amid a retreat in US Dollar and demand optimism from China. Further cues may come in from manufacturing PMI data from the US, UK and Eurozone wherein upbeat data may further fan demand hopes.

The author is VP- Head Commodity Research at Kotak Securities

: The views and investment tips expressed by investment experts on moneycontrol.com are their own, and not that of the website or its management. Moneycontrol.com advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.
Godwin Obaseki, the governor of Edo State, has called on Nigerian youth not to give up on the nations quest to attain the dreams of its founding fathers.

He said this at the 60th independence anniversary celebration organised at the Government House in Benin City.

The governor noted that this years theme Together is apt, considering the numerous challenges threatening the countrys unity and despite the obvious frustration and anger across all segments of the nation.

Mr Obaseki also commended President Muhammadu Buhari for making Edo voters vote count during the September 19 governorship election.

He said, For those who listened to the Presidents broadcast, the theme together is very appropriate. If not for God, Nigeria wont be celebrating. Yes, there are frustrations, anger in the land but there is hope for Nigeria.

It is important we give the youth hope because without hope. there will be no future. I thank God for using me to strengthen democracy. Previous elections have threatened our democracy where Nigeria has begun to lose hope.

We thank God for giving our President the courage to support our calls to have a free and fair election in Edo state. Edo people spoke and their voice was heard.

Mr Obaseki further promised to be magnanimous in victory, noting that as the governor he has a responsibility to all irrespective of political affiliation.

On his part, Abudulfatai Enabulele, the Chief Imam of Edo State, called for prayers for the nations leaders to enable them to harness the abundant resources for the benefit of the people.

Also, Oyonude Kure, chairperson of the Edo State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria, (CAN), admonished Mr Obaseki to bring everybody on board.
'Many estate agency firms will do well to break even this year, given the disruption to markets caused by the pandemic' (Stock photo)

Many estate agency firms will do well to break even this year, given the disruption to markets caused by the pandemic. Business owners will be looking at which areas may hold up best and help carry the rest of the firm. It may be worth transferring staff into those sectors, from the departments suffering most, as worked well during the last downturn.

This pandemic-related downturn is damaging in that it is the volume of deals that will suffer most, rather than the sharply reducing values, typical of the traditional economic downturn. Indeed, a wave of reducing values usually provokes deals, which generate fee income for agents. Markets rising or falling, are more profitable than stalled markets.

The international brands have deep pockets and a fall off in transaction-based activity can be partly offset by the steadier fees earned in the property management, valuations and advisory departments where indeed there may be increased business arising from the revaluation of developments.

A point of diversification for agents was always the split between commercial and residential markets, and it's interesting to look at how that's changed in recent years. Traditionally, almost all of the large firms of agents sold "second-hand houses". As firms were acquired by international brands, (which often did not sell "second-hand" homes) some residential businesses were separated from the mother-ship, or re-named or sold. Examples were the sale of the Gunne residential business after the acquisition by CBRE, and the rebranding of the Sherry FitzGerald commercial wing as Cushman & Wakefield.

While Savills sell second-hand houses and commercial property under its main brand worldwide, Savills in Ireland has retreated from the mainstream "second-hand" residential business in Ireland, but maintains a country-house department. Conversely, JLL only handled commercial property traditionally, but later moved into the residential business.

The conundrum with the residential business is margins are lower than commercial and it is staff intensive. Maintaining a network of suburban branch offices is extremely expensive. The more branches you have, the better your efficiencies of scale, but by the time the costs of centralised management support, research and marketing are apportioned, branch offices can become saddled with challenging overheads. Standardisation of the service offering and tight management appear to be the keys to success.

The residential market is also extremely competitive. The owners of modest houses will often invite up to five agents to inspect and pitch for the business and fees are always under pressure.

So, while the synergies appear obvious (every commercial client lives in a house) many firms have found it difficult to exploit that interaction. This, I suggest, is down to the difference between the two businesses. Residential clients sell one house, every thirty years or so, in a process charged with emotion, whereas commercial clients are dealing all the time, for business reasons.

All agents maintain "new homes" departments, regarded as a commercial activity, and sits more neatly alongside the commercial businesses, particularly in this age of "mixed-use" developments. The big win for agents over the last twenty years, has been the number of Irish housebuilders that evolved into major commercial developers, and became hugely valuable clients.
Bernard "Bernie" Segal: MacDonald's lead defense attorney, known primarily for his work in civil rights causes, died at his home in Philadelphia in 1997 at age 89.

Wade Smith: Smith, considered one of the top civil and criminal defense attorneys in North Carolina, assisted on the MacDonald case in 1979. Later in his career, Smith was co-counsel for Ann Miller Kontz, the Raleigh chemist who poisoned her husband with arsenic in 2000. Smith also represented one of the men wrongly accused in the Duke lacrosse scandal. In 2006, Smith was appointed as one of eight commissioners on the newly established North Carolina Innocence Inquiry Commission, created to evaluate actual innocence claims. He continues to practice law in Raleigh.

Jim Blackburn: Blackburn was the co-lead federal prosecutor in the 1979 trial and won the conviction against MacDonald. Later in his career, Blackburn became known for forging phony court documents and illegally wiring money from his law firm's bank account. In 1993, he plead guilty to fraud, embezzlement, forgery and obstruction of justice. He was disbarred and served three and a half months in jail. Blackburn hired Wade Smith to represent him.
Durga puja organisers in the Uttar Pradesh capital heaved a sigh of relief as the state government has finally allowed Durga puja with idols even in parks and other places strictly adhering to Covid-19 guidelines.

The Uttar Pradesh government on Thursday announced the Re-open guidelines, paving the way for public celebration of Durga Puja, Ramleela, larger political activities including those for the UP Assembly bypolls on seven seats, or larger marriage gatherings.

We are happy about the state government decision in allowing Durga puja. The uncertainty has finally ended. We will go for smaller size idols and shall follow all the guidelines, said Arun Banerjee, president of the Bengali Club.

We are the oldest organisation in the city celebrating Durga puja for more than 100 years now. It was difficult to discontinue a century-old tradition. This Durga puja lets pray to God to kill the demon virus which has claimed several lives in the country, he said.

Rabindra Palli puja committee president Mihir Banerjee said, This is a welcome decision. This is our 37th year. We are going for Kalash puja or will go for small size Durga idols. No distribution of bhog (Prasad) will be conducted and will organise pushpanjali in small batches.

Tirtho Sengupta of RDSO Durga puja committee said, We are happy with the decision. A meeting has been called on Friday evening to discuss the arrangements. We will place an order for small-sized idols.

An elated Manoj Bhadra, president of Bondhu Mahal said, During the pandemic along with celebrating Durga Puja, we will have to look into the health of devotees visiting the pandals.

We have decided to strictly follow the Covid-19 guidelines in our Puja pandal, he said. Bhadra said, Though we are getting a very short time to prepare for the puja, our members will work to make it a grand event with curtailed programmes.

He said, We have ordered for a small Durga protima and our purohit and dhaki have confirmed their participation.

Ramakrishna Math, which has been organising Durga Puja for nearly 40 years now, is going ahead with the rituals. We will follow all Covid guidelines, including social distancing and limited gathering, said Swami Muktinathananda, president of the math.
The Chamber of Deputies confirmed on Wednesday the dates for the public debates of three petitions.

On 6 October, the authors of the petition "against 5G" will present their arguments to the deputies. Proposed by the anti-5G collective in Luxembourg, it had collected more than 7,000 signatures and deplored the lack of information on the subject.

On 19 October, the debate surrounds the petition of "the right to telework". The idea of the authors of the text, inspired by the health crisis, is to authorise the use of telework "for half the daily or weekly working time".

Finally, on 21 October, deputies will discuss the protection of Luxembourg's architectural heritage. More than 5,000 petitioners are calling on the government to prevent "an irretrievable loss of Luxembourg's architectural heritage". The "protection of old buildings should be the rule, their demolition the exception" they explain.
Toronto is one of seven world cities most at risk of a residential real estate bubble, according to a new report released by UBS this week.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 1/10/2020 (478 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

A sold sign is shown in front of west-end Toronto homes Sunday, May 14, 2017. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Graeme Roy

Toronto is one of seven world cities most at risk of a residential real estate bubble, according to a new report released by UBS this week.

Toronto scored 1.96 in the UBS Global Real Estate Bubble Index, the third-highest score below Frankfurt and Munich, which scored 2.26 and 2.35, respectively.

The bank's report scores 25 cities across the world, sorting them into four tiers: bubble risk, overvalued, fair valued, and undervalued with higher scores going to locations with higher risk.

Toronto is in the bubble risk category for the third consecutive year, surpassing Hong Kong, Paris and Amsterdam.

UBS says Vancouver real estate had dropped out of bubble risk territory this year but is still overvalued, with a score of 1.37, down from 1.92 in 2018.

Other overvalued cities in the report were New York, San Francisco and Sydney, Australia with scores less than 1, while Boston, Singapore and Dubai had fair real estate values and Chicago real estate was considered undervalued.

The scores are based on how home prices compare to incomes and rents, and whether mortgage lending and construction spending are excessive compared to the growth in the overall economy.

The scores do not predict whether or when a bubble will pop and cause home prices to fall. The existence of a bubble, UBS said, cannot be proved unless it bursts."

Instead, the authors write, they are comparing present conditions with housing bubbles throughout history. UBS gives cities a score -1.5 if they are depressed, -1.5 to -0.5 if they are undervalued, -0.5 to 0.5 if they are fairly valued, 0.5 to 1.5 if they are overvalued and above 1.5 if they are a bubble risk.

For Toronto and Vancouver, UBS looked at statistics from Statistics Canada, the Bank of Canada, Sauder School of Business, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp, Toronto Regional Real Estate Board, condos.ca and Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver, among other sources.

Demand for single-family homes in the suburbs have pushed Toronto prices up nearly six per cent in four quarters, stretching affordability, the report said.

Given Torontos robust population growth and lower mortgage rates, prices there have doubled within only a dozen years, the report said.

Moreover, the expected appreciation of the Canadian dollar will curb the appeal of Torontos property to foreign buyers when travel restrictions are lifted.

In Vancouver, home valuations remain sky high, but have eased amid vacancy fees, a foreign-buyers tax and less immigration, UBS said. After a 10 per cent drop between 2018 and late 2019, the authors said Vancouver home prices have stabilized thanks to falling mortgage rates and rules that let potential buyers qualify for higher mortgage loans more easily.

Overall, about half of the cities in the report were either bubble risks or significantly overvalued. The reports authors said that four quarters of rising real estate prices during a global recession is unsustainable, noting that it has been nearly 15 years since prices rose in so many global cities at once.

It is uncertain to what extent higher unemployment and the gloomy outlook for household incomes will affect home prices  Rents have been falling already in most cities, said Mark Haefele, chief investment officer at UBS Global Wealth Management, in a statement.

As the COVID-19 pandemic causes people to reconsider where to live, UBS predicts that there will be less demand for housing in cities.

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The rise of the home office calls into question the need to live close to city centers. Pressure on household incomes cause many people to move to more affordable suburban areas, said UBS real estate chief Claudio Saputelli in the report.

Already debt-ridden or economically weaker cities will have to respond to this economic crisis with tax increases or public spending cuts, neither of which bode well for property prices.

UBS also urged first-time home buyers to consider building up wealth with a focus on more liquid assets to diversify their investments outside of their homes.

The current cities at bubble risk seem to be weathering the coronavirus crisis relatively well. The local economies in Munich, Toronto and Hong Kong will likely recover quickly, said Matthias Holzhey, lead author of the study.

But, Holzhey added, even if home prices dont plunge, there isnt much more potential for capital gains.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 1, 2020.
People climb the Great Wall that is illuminated to mark the first day of Mid-Autumn Festival and the Chinese National Day, in Beijing

(Reuters) - Paris is set to be placed on maximum COVID-19 alert while Europe's worst hotspot, Madrid, will go into lockdown in the coming days, as several European countries reported record daily jumps in new infections.

DEATHS AND INFECTIONS

* For an interactive graphic tracking the global spread of COVID-19, open https://graphics.reuters.com/world-coronavirus-tracker-and-maps/

* For a U.S.-focused tracker with a state-by-state and county map, open https://tmsnrt.rs/2w7hX9T

EUROPE

* Travellers arriving in England and Scotland from Turkey and Poland will have to self-isolate for 14 days from early on Saturday, officials said as they expanded their COVID-19 quarantine lists.

* Italy's prime minister will ask parliament to extend the country's state of emergency to the end of January, as the government tries to avoid the kind of surge in cases seen in other European countries.

* Moscow may reinstate tough measures if its 13 million population ignores COVID-19 protection rules, its mayor Sergei Sobyanin said after the Russian capital started to record increases in daily cases of infection.

AMERICAS

* COVID-19 trends are all moving in the wrong direction in Wisconsin, while the pandemic's early U.S. epicenter of New York state reported an uptick of positive tests in 20 "hot spots."

* U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin remained far from agreement on COVID-19 relief in key areas.

ASIA-PACIFIC

* Malaysian authorities warned of a new wave of coronavirus after a spike in new infections following an election in the country's second largest state Sabah.

MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA

* Turkey's top medical association and the main opposition party criticised a decision by President Tayyip Erdogan's government to only publicly disclose new cases if the patient is showing symptoms.

MEDICAL DEVELOPMENTS

* The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced a fresh round of $20 billion funding for frontline healthcare providers dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Story continues

* The HHS said that U.S. hospitals can now buy Gilead Sciences Inc's antiviral COVID-19 drug remdesivir from the company and its distributor.

* The European health regulator has started reviewing data on AstraZeneca and Oxford University's potential COVID-19 vaccine in real time, the first of such moves aimed at speeding up any approval process in the region for a vaccine.

ECONOMIC IMPACT

* The number of Americans filing new claims for jobless benefits fell last week but remained at recession levels, while personal income dropped in August.

* Major Canadian labor unions said the aviation sector would suffer permanent damage unless Ottawa provided a C$7 billion 10-year low-interest loan to offset the effects of the outbreak, which has slashed travel.

(Compiled by Devika Syamnath and Milla Nissi; Editing by Philippa Fletcher and Sriraj Kalluvila)
**UPDATE: EVENT IS CANCELED** We are sorry to report that we have just been informed that a mechanical issue has surfaced on the B-17 and Yankee Air Museum has been forced to cancel their appearance at the Air Zoos Flight Discovery Center, scheduled for Saturday, October 3rd. The Boeing B-17G, Yankee Lady, will visit the Air Zoos Flight Discovery Center on Saturday, October 3, 2020. The plane and crew will be arriving around 10am and plan to offer Air Adventure rides to those interested in booking a seat for flights scheduled that day.



The weather looks perfect for our last Yankee Air Museum visit of the year states Air Zoos Director of Marketing, Nikki Statler. In August, we had a nice turn out of excited spectators to welcome Yankees C-47 and its crew, we anticipate the same for this weekend! Yankee will be selling rides and tours of this iconic, WWII heavy bomber  it will be a great day to visit the Air Zoo.



Yankee Lady is the same type of legendary aircraft, commonly called a Flying Fortress, which helped end World War II by crippling the enemies ability to wage war. This particular B-17 joined the United States Army Air Forces on July 16, 1945, shortly after Victory in Europe was declared. Yankee Lady is one of only ten airworthy B-17s in existence and none of these ever saw combat.



Self-guided ground tours cost $8.00 for adults aged 15 and above; $3.00 for kids aged 6 to 15 and all others are free. Air Adventure rides on the B-17 are available at 11am, 12pm, and 1pm. An Air Adventure ride is a 30-minute experience and costs $475.00. To order a B-17 Air Adventure visit www.yankeeairmuseum.org and click on Fly With Us. Additional flight times may be added as customer demand warrants.


Summer Internship Programme matches over 100 Manx students with local businesses

A Summer Internship Programme has matched over 100 Manx students with businesses across the Island.



The programme for individuals aged 18 -25 was one of the first initiatives to be supported under the 100m Economic Recovery Fund that was announced by Treasury Minister Alfred Cannan MHK in his budget update to Julys Tynwald.



The internship programme provided full wage support at a weekly rate of 256 per week for businesses, third sector and other organisations. Organisations were matched with young people and students who are looking to gain real world work experience, build their CV and develop interpersonal skills.



Overall the programme received 259 student applications and 112 business hosts seeking support with 161 projects.



The programme is now closed to new applications from individuals and business hosts, with final work underway by the agency to match as many outstanding compatible applications received before the deadline.


After Googles fall hardware event yesterday, I spent some time comparing the Pixel 5 to the Pixel 4a 5G and was surprised to find few noteworthy differences between the two phones. They share the same processor, cameras, fingerprint unlock sensor and have nearly identical screens. That covers probably the most important parts of a smartphone experience; the main differences are wireless charging; a metal, water resistant body; a 90Hz screen refresh rate; a slightly bigger battery; and 8GB of RAM (compared to 6GB on the 4a).

Thats not to say these features are meaningless, but they are fairly minor in the grand scheme of most peoples smartphones. Given that the Pixel 4a 5G only costs $499 here in the US, a full $200 less than the 5, Googles flagship felt like a bit of a tough sell. But that was before Verizon announced it was selling its own version of the 4a 5G, one that supported the carriers mmWave-based 5G network. The awkwardly-named Pixel 4a 5G UW is priced at $599, only $100 less than the Pixel 5, a phone that also works on Verizons mmWave network.

That pricing feels more appropriate given the differences between the phones -- but the downside is that the US is paying a premium for the Pixel 5 compared to the rest of the world. As some have noticed, Google also built a less expensive Pixel 5 without mmWave support, but you cant get it in the US. That means that even if you buy the phone unlocked here, youre paying for the mmWave technology inside if, regardless of whether youre going to use it.

Fortunately, our friends around the world can pick up the Pixel 5 without mmWave and save some money doing so. Obviously, comparing prices between the US and other countries isnt a direct science, but Canada makes for a good example. As Dan Bader at Android Central noted on Twitter, the Pixel 5 is $799 in Canada, and its not just Google being kind on the exchange rate ($700 USD equals about $931 Canadian dollars as of this writing) -- its because the Pixel 5 without mmWave simply costs less. The same is true in the UK, where the Pixel 4a 5G costs 499, and the Pixel 5 costs 599.

The Pixel 5 is $699 in the US and $799 in Canada. This isn't Google being kind on the exchange rate. It's because US buyers are spending an extra $100 for mmWave 5G and Canadians aren't, simple as that.



Every phone with mmWave costs more, whether you use it or not. pic.twitter.com/V7LXAtP31P  Daniel Bader (@journeydan) October 1, 2020

On the one hand, Id prefer to see a cheaper Pixel 5 here in the US for the many people in the country who dont have access to mmWave-based 5G. Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile are all building it out, but the latter two carriers rely mostly on a 5G standard thats much more widely available. That network isnt nearly as fast as mmWave, but it does have the huge advantage of being available all around the country with a much greater range and ability to work indoors, unlike mmWave right now.

If youre on Verizon, though, mmWave is the only 5G the carrier currently provides. Verizon and Google have had a close, sometimes exclusive relationship for all the prior Pixel phones, so its not surprising to see Google only offer a Pixel 5 thatll give the best experience on its network. Its also not a huge leap to suggest Verizon didnt want Google selling a Pixel 5 at the same $599 price as its Pixel 4a.

And given that people are holding on to their phones longer than ever these days, its not a bad thing that these phones will work with more 5G networks going forward. But at the same time, people considering less expensive phones like the Pixel lineup are probably not worried about having the fastest possible 5G speeds they can get. In fact, Id probably opt for a cheaper Pixel 5 without mmWave if I had the choice. But given the fact that the Pixel 4a and 5 are so similar, Id probably just save myself $200 and go with the true budget option.
Emilia Clarke: My final 'Game of Thrones' Scene 'fed me up'

Emilia Clarke is teasing that her last minutes on screen in HBOs Game of Thrones are pretty emotional.

Emilia Clarke wasn't feeling well.

It was September 2012. Game of Thrones was filming an intense season 2 scene in a sun-drenched quarry in Croatia. Clarke was in costume as Daenerys Targaryen, standing before the towering Gates of Qarth, demanding the city's leaders provide refuge to her and the tattered remains of her weary khalasar. "Turn us away and we will burn you first!" she warned.

As usual when playing the character, Clarke's long, dark hair was smushed into a bald cap glued onto her head, and then a tight blond wig was affixed on top of that. Standing in the intense heat, hour after hour, Clarke felt like her skull was baking. Later, the actress bowed out of a scheduled interview due to heatstroke. As Clarke cheerfully explained later that week, Oh, the other day? I just had a bit of a cant cope with the heat moment. . . .

Paul Schiraldi/HBO

Clarke wouldnt reveal the deeper and far more serious reason for her exhaustion for another eight years. After filming Thrones season one, the acclaimed Thrones star had suffered a brain hemorrhage at a gym in London. I immediately felt as though an elastic band were squeezing my brain, Clarke wrote in The New Yorker. As she was rushed to the hospital, Clarke recalled lines of Daenerys Targaryens dialogue to try to calm herself. The actress underwent emergency surgery and for several days couldnt even remember her own name, let alone speeches in Dothraki.

Somehow, just weeks later, Clarke returned to work on Thrones despite still having a second growth on her brain that a doctor said might in theory, though it was unlikelypop at any time.

Day after day on set, Clarke continued to deliver her usual ferocious performance as Daenerys Targaryen without giving any indication of her fatigue, fear, and pain. Only a few people who worked on the show had any idea what the actress was really going through.

Story continues

In my upcoming book, Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon, Clarke and others recounted what it was like on the set after the actress experienced a traumatic injury that would have completely sidelined so many others.

EMILIA CLARKE (Daenerys Targaryen): It was crazy intense. We are in the desert in a quarry in like ninety-degree heat, and I had the consistent fear that I was going to have another brain hemorrhage. I spent a lot time just being like: Am I gonna die? Is that gonna happen on set? Because that would be really inconvenient. And with any kind of brain injury it leaves you with a fatigue thats indescribable. I was trying so hard to keep it under wraps.

BRYAN COGMAN (co-executive producer): Only a very select few people knew about that. I was completely unaware. I heard a little bit that she had some problems between seasons, but nothing to that extent. And I had no clue while we were shooting.

ALAN TAYLOR (director): We were afraid for her. Shes so brave, because it never affected her commitment to the work.

EMILIA CLARKE: If I had called my doctor, he would have been like, Dude, you just need to chill out. But I still felt blind fear, and the fear was making me panic, and the panic was leading me to feel like Im going to pass out in the desert. So they brought in an air-conditioned car for mesorry, planet.

DAN WEISS (showrunner): It was terrifying because this amazing, sweet, wonderful human being came this close to not being around anymore this person we loved so much after just one year. Obviously you need to make the show, but the important thing was making sure she was in a safe situation. You ask yourself: Is she as safe doing this show as if she was not doing it? If she was home sitting on her couch? She was so gung-ho, the main thing for us was making sure she wouldnt put herself [in dangerous situations]. She would say: Yeah, I just had brain surgery and if I need to gallop on a horse down a mountainside, Ill do it. You would have to tell her no because she would never say no.

EMILIA CLARKE: In all of my years on the show, I never put self-health first, which is probably why everyone else was worrying, as they could see that. They didnt want to work me too hard. I was like: Dont think Im a failure; dont think I cant do the job that Ive been hired to do. Please dont think Im going to f--k up at any moment. I had the Willy Wonka golden ticket. I wasnt about to hand that in.

Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon  the complete uncensored story of making Thrones  is released Tuesday, Oct. 6 and available for preorder.

Related content:
London: British opposition MPs have expressed dismay over reports that Home Secretary Priti Patel had floated plans to send asylum seekers to a remote island in the southern Atlantic.

The Financial Times first reported on Wednesday, London time, that Patel asked officials to explore sending people seeking to reach Britain to Ascension Island, a British territory thousands of kilometres away. Officials reportedly also looked into housing asylum seekers on another British overseas territory: St Helena, the volcanic island where French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte died in exile in 1821.

Britain's Home Secretary Priti Patel with Prime Minister Boris Johnson aboard a security boat in the Port of Southampton during election campaigning in 2019. Credit:AP

The British Home Office appears to have since scrapped plans to send asylum seekers to such far-flung locations, the newspaper reported.

But even that the idea had been floated drew ire from opposition MPs and human rights advocates, who called it "heartless" and more.
This letter was signed by Chuck Hassebrook, 2014 Democratic nominee for Nebraska governor; former U.S. Sens. and Govs. Bob Kerrey and Ben Nelson; former U.S. Rep. Brad Ashford; Omaha City Councilman Ben Gray; and former State Sen. Bob Krist, 2018 Democratic nominee for Nebraska governor.

We were disappointed in the condemnation of Douglas County Attorney Don Kleine by the Nebraska Democratic Party.

In our polarized nation, it is critical to first seek the truth, because events do not always conform to any ideology, nor fit what our political view would lead us to believe. Mr. Kleines actions demonstrate an earnest search for truth, as did his call for a special prosecutor and grand jury.

Don Kleine has done much to help low-income defendants, including African Americans. His values, record and behavior are beyond reproach. Nor do we see any basis to attack the integrity of the grand jury or special prosecutor Fred Franklin. People of goodwill and conscience can reach different conclusions in a difficult case where multiple parties, including Jake Gardner and James Scurlock, took provocative actions that contributed to the tragedy.
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

What exactly is the relationship between soil nitrogen, corn yield, and nitrogen loss? Most farmers would be forgiven for assuming a straightforward linear relationship: more nitrogen, more grain yield, and maybe, more loss. That's the assumption many nitrogen management models are based on, but it turns out there's very little published science to back up that assumption.

In arecent paperleveraging a multi-year dataset from 11 experimental plots and on-farm trials around the state, University of Illinois scientists definitively established the relationship between soil nitrogen at different growth stages and corn yield. The results provide more precise ways to manage nitrogen for grain yield while lowering nitrogen losses.

"Technology nowadays moves very fast. There's a lot of modeling tools out there to help growers match nitrogen to crop needs, but very little published data showing the relationship," says Giovani Preza-Fontes, doctoral researcher in the Department of Crop Sciences at Illinois and lead author on the paper. "Our work shows soil nitrogen explains the majority (46-61%) of the variation in grain yield. It is a good predictor."

This information could complement crop modeling efforts, but it should also help farmers feel more confident in their nitrogen management decisions at critical moments.

"When we get a lot of rain, people often guess that some nitrogen was lost from the soil, and may be inclined to put more on. We did this study to try to show how much the crop needs to have in the soil at different stages of growth," says Emerson Nafziger, emeritus professor in crop sciences and co-author on the study.

Researchers applied nitrogen at different rates, times, and forms, then measured the amount of soil mineral nitrogen (SMN) to see how much nitrogen was available to the plant over time. They measured SMN several times during the first half of the growing season, beginning when corn was about a foot tall and ending as the crop approached pollination.

Interestingly, they found the amount of SMN needed to maximize grain yield changed over time as the crop developed.

"In early June, with plants about a foot tall, we found that corn needed more nitrogen in the soil than it needed later. Ten to 14 days later, the SMN level needed for best yields had dropped by about one-third, and it stayed at that level for two more sampling periods, into early July. That's probably our most surprising finding," Nafziger says. "It's some of the first data that's been published on how soil nitrogen actually changes."

"We know the plant's taking up its nitrogen most rapidly during that period, and the fact that soil nitrogen isn't changing very much shows that the nitrogen is coming from soil organic matter through the process of mineralization. Mineralization is a microbial process favored by the same conditions that favor rapid crop growth, so it's at its maximum rate during this period," he adds.

In other words, adding more nitrogen during rapid growth may end up causing an excess of soil nitrogen that could lead to losses.

To better estimate potential losses, the researchers calculated a simple nitrogen balance (input as nitrogen fertilizer minus output, removed in grain) for each site and year.

"We confirmed there's a tradeoff between productivity and environmental impact. We found a 22% yield increase when SMN increased from deficient to optimal levels, but adding enough nitrogen also increased the probability of environmental nitrogen losses," Preza-Fontes says. "It's important to not only focus on increasing productivity when developing new tools for nitrogen management. We also need to account for potential nitrogen losses to meet sustainability goals in the region."

The article, "Relationship of in-season soil nitrogen concentration with corn yield and potential nitrogen losses," is published in the Soil Science Society of America Journal.

Explore further Soil carbon and nitrogen mineralization after the initial flush of CO2

More information: Giovani PrezaFontes et al. Relationship of inseason soil nitrogen concentration with corn yield and potential nitrogen losses, Soil Science Society of America Journal (2020). Journal information: Soil Science Society of America Journal Giovani PrezaFontes et al. Relationship of inseason soil nitrogen concentration with corn yield and potential nitrogen losses,(2020). DOI: 10.1002/saj2.20117
KITCHENER, ON, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ - Quarterhill Inc. ("Quarterhill") (TSX: QTRH) (OTCQX: QTRHF) subsidiary Wi-LAN Inc. ("WiLAN") today announced a new patent license agreement with Intel Corporation ("Intel") granting Intel certain patent rights for a multi-year term (the "Agreement").

The Agreement also includes the settlement and dismissal of all litigation pending between WiLAN's Auriga Innovations, Inc. subsidiary and each of Intel, HP Inc. and Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company currently pending before the United States District Court, Western District of Texas.

The specific consideration payable under the Agreement and all other terms and conditions are confidential.

About WiLAN

WiLAN, a Quarterhill company, is one of the most successful patent monetization companies in the world and partners with its customers to unlock the value of intellectual property through various patent monetization models. WiLAN operates in a variety of markets including automotive, digital television, Internet, medical, semiconductor and wireless communication technologies. For more information: www.wilan.com.

About Quarterhill

Quarterhill is a growth-oriented company in the Intellectual Property and Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) industries. Our goal is to pursue an investment strategy that capitalizes on attractive market trends in both ITS and its adjacent markets. Quarterhill is listed on the TSX under the symbol QTRH and on the OTCQX Best Market under the symbol QTRHF. For more information: www.quarterhill.com.

SOURCE Quarterhill Inc.

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http://www.wilan.com


This file photo taken on January 23, 2018 shows the logo of European multinational aeronautics company Airbus during the 10th International Cybersecurity Forum in Lille, France. Airbus unveiled three hydrogen-powered aircraft concepts on September 21, 2020 and aims to commission a zero-emission commercial aircraft by 2035, a "major strategic focus" for the aircraft manufacturer, subject like the rest of the sector to pressure growing public opinion.(PHILIPPE HUGUEN / AFP)

The World Trade Organization, the European Union and Airbus declined to comment when contacted by AFP, while Boeing did not reply immediately.

A source close to the matter who asked to remain anonymous said the amount would likely be "a little less" than that reported by the media.

A decision was to be announced on October 13, the source added.

An EU commission spokesman told AFP: "We regret that the confidentiality of the process has been broken."

The WTO's decision "has not been finalised and is not yet public," the spokesman added.

The European Union and the United States accuse each other of providing illegal state aid to their respective aircraft manufacturers.

Last year, the WTO authorized $7.5 billion in US sanctions against European goods and services.

It was the biggest amount authorized to date by the WTO and was a result of EU aid to Airbus that was deemed improper under international trade regulations.

The latest WTO decision, if announced in mid-October, would come just weeks before the US presidential election in which international trade relations are an important issue.

When the WTO authorized the US sanctions, Washington imposed a 15 percent tariff on aircraft imported from the EU, and 25 percent tariffs on products such as wine, cheese, coffee and olives, according to a list published by the US trade representative.
SYDNEYThe question from the debate moderator in New Zealand was simple and to the point: Jacinda Ardern, have you ever used cannabis?

Yes I did, said Ardern, the countrys popular prime minister, a long time ago.

The moderator paused, looking surprised. Then the audience applauded.

Ardern later declined to say whether she supported the legalization of marijuana, which New Zealanders will decide in a referendum with the national election Oct. 17. But by that point in the debate Wednesday, she had already won another smiley-face emoji from the global left, while reminding voters that she hadnt always been so earnest.

Before leading the coronavirus lockdown that worked and becoming New Zealands unifier-in-chief after the deadly shootings last year at two mosques in Christchurch, Ardern was, it seemed, like most of her constituents: a toker, at least once or twice.

Roughly 80 per cent of New Zealanders have tried marijuana, according to independent studies  more than double the rate for Australians, and far above what Americans report, too. So when Ardern, 40, acknowledged her own past drug use, the nation of five million  where a lot of things are green and dank  simply shrugged.

Most people will have just smiled to themselves, as most have had a puff, said Peter Williamson, 67, a Methodist minister in South Auckland. Im probably one of the few people whos never actually had the opportunity.

Thats New Zealand for you  democracys relaxed parallel universe. While U.S. President Donald Trump and Joe Biden were drawing comparisons to dumpster fires inside a train wreck this week, Ardern and her opponent, Judith Collins, leader of the conservative National Party, were engaging in an intense debate with just a few interruptions (and a call at one point for manners).

New Zealands upcoming election is an anomaly in other ways as well. It has the potential to be historic  as a marker of consensus, not division.

Ardern is such a favourite that the only question is whether her Labour party will win enough support to form New Zealands first majority government since landmark electoral reform in the 1990s, or whether she will need to form a coalition with the Greens.

Marijuana has become a hot issue precisely for that reason. With a majority in reach, Ardern has been reminding the world that her politics of kindness also includes steely calculation.

Helen Clark, the former Labor prime minister who is a vocal supporter of legalization, said the indication that she has used it is in itself a powerful signal.

But polls show a closely divided electorate on legalization. Some observers see that as the reason that Ardern has refused to say which way she leans on the issue.

She needs centre-right voters, said Richard Shaw, a politics professor at Massey University in Palmerston North. The concern might be that the National Party would use it against her as a weapon.

For now, her I smoked but may not want you to approach has flummoxed her critics on both the left and the right.

During the debate Wednesday night, Collins, a lawyer who is the second woman to lead the National Party, interjected a sarcastic come on when Ardern said she wanted to let the public decide whether marijuana should be legal.

Her own answer was more definitive: Collins, 61, said she had never used cannabis and would vote no on the referendum.

I want to protect the mental health of young people in particular, she said.

Many New Zealanders seem, like Ardern, to be arguing not about the intent of the law but about how far it would go and how it should be passed.

Williamson, the Methodist pastor, who is also a former criminal barrister, said he would prefer that marijuana possession be decriminalized. Indigenous New Zealanders are three times as likely to be arrested and charged with marijuana offences as white New Zealanders are.

An ordinary person with a small amount of marijuana should not be afraid of being stopped by police, he said.

Even supporters of legalization have wondered aloud if the referendum was the best way to go. It lays out in great detail how the drug would be regulated: Cannabis would be sold via licensed retailers; it would be legal for those 20 and older; and people would be allowed to grow up to four plants at home, and share up to 14 grams socially.

But given that Ardern said in 2017 that she supported a public health approach to recreational marijuana use, many ask, why turn the decision over to the people?

They committed to writing a very good law, but theyre letting it hang out in a no-mans-land, said Ross Bell, executive director of the Drug Foundation, which has worked for decades to reduce the harm of alcohol and drugs through education and policy advocacy.

Nandor Tanczos, a former Greens party lawmaker who is now on the district council in the town of Whakatane, and who runs a social change organization called He Puna Whenua, agreed.

Parliament should have just legislated these reforms, based on science, he said.

Relying on a referendum, he argued, has allowed misinformation to bloom. One example he cited: The anti-legalization lobby has shown images of rural dairy farms with marijuana ads plastered on them  although the new law would prohibit advertising.

Its an attempt to scare people into thinking were getting something different than we actually will, Tanczos said.

That kind of fear-mongering could have long-term consequences, Bell said.

A no vote means no politicians will touch cannabis for a long, long time, he said. And that law will stay, doing harm mainly to young people and Maori.
DMK President M K Stalin, TNCC President K S Alagiri and MDMK general secretary Vaiko were among those who expressed their displeasure over the Lucknow CBI Courts verdict on the 1992 demolition of the 465-year-old Babri Masjid at Ayodhya, acquitting all those accused in the case.

Since justice has not been rendered in the case, the government should go on an appeal, said Alagiri, accusing the CBI of being a handmaiden of the BJP government at the Centre. The verdict, coming 28 years after the mosque was brought down by thousands of kar sevaks, mobilized by the BJP and the Sangh Parivar, is a shock to all those who believe in the rule of law, he said.

Stalin also said that it brought shame to the rule of law in the country as the Supreme Court had clearly said, The entire structure of the mosque was brought down in a calculated act of destroying a place of public worship.

He said that CBI failed to prove the case in the court as it is a caged parrot, which has brought shame to the country itself.

Vaiko said that when the cruel demolition was planned for years by making open announcements and the crowds were mobilized for months, the court saying that was not premeditated is akin to demolishing the law. He also pointed out that the Supreme Court had mentioned it as a planned act.

Though the Supreme Court had, in 2017, referred to demolition as a criminal act that was detrimental to the idea of secularism enshrined in the Constitution, the Lucknow courts verdict went against the spirit of that observation, Alagiri said.

While BJP leaders like L K Advani, M M Joshi, Uma Bharathi and the then UP Chief Minister Kalyan Singh were accused of inciting the Kar Sevaks to demolish the mosque the CBI failed to prove the allegations with evidence in the court, he said, adding the CBI had failed to investigate the case and bring to book the culprits.
Chennai Super Kings fast bowler KM Asif did not breach the bio-secure bubble protocols set for the players in IPL 2020, confirmed CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan. He dismissed the reports of Asif breaching the protocols and said the matter has been blown out of proportion.

Viswanathan said that there is a separate area in the lobby which caters to the players, and all of the staff working there are being tested regularly to avoid any case of infection.

IPL 2020, KXIP vs MI Live Score

I dont know if facts have been checked because while there is a reception in the lobby, the staff attending to the CSK unit is different. Asif obviously would not go and speak to the general staff. The boys know that there is a dedicated team working with the players, the CSK CEO told ANI.

Viswanathan agreed that Asif had indeed lost they key to his room but he went to ask for a replacement form the designated unit and not the hotel reception.

The fact he lost the key and went and asked for a replacement is true. But he didnt go to the regular staff working and went to the designated desk. The matter has been blown out of proportion and facts need to be kept in mind, he pointed.

Also Read | SRK reacts after Tendulkar congratulates KKR on performance against RR

Asif is yet to take play a match in this years IPL. The right-arm Kerala pacer has so far played two matches for CSK - both in 2018 edition of the tournament.

Elaborating further, the CEO said he himself has ensured that he doesnt enter the bubble that is there for the players, and support staff is different from the one for officials.

We all know the gravity of the situation and how the coronavirus is deadly. In fact, I myself have not entered the floors where the players and support staff are staying. Their bubble is different from the bubble created for the officials.

We are taking as much precautions as humanly possible. The players have undergone 14 tests so far and Asif too has been part of them and he is negative. Now, we cannot ask every staff member in the hotel to be a part of the bubble, but let me inform you that they are all being regularly tested, he explained.

CSK will next face Sunrisers Hyderabad in on October 2 and will look to bring their campaign back on track.

(With ANI inputs)
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan has sent a congratulatory message to President Xi Jinping of the Peoples Republic of China on the occasion of the 71st anniversary of Proclamation of the Peoples Republic of China, the PMs Office told Armenpress.

The message reads:

I extend my most cordial congratulations on the 71st anniversary of Proclamation of the Peoples Republic of China.

Under your leadership, China was able to overcome the outbreak of COVID-19 and is now taking consistent steps to tackle its aftermath, setting thereby a vivid example to the international community and supporting friendly countries. I highly value the sustained high-level dialogue between our two countries and the policy of mutual assistance amid the ongoing changes in the international arena.

I have kept warm recollections of the meeting and the exchange of views we had during my visit to China last year. Striving to deepen and expand the bilateral political, economic and cultural relations, identify new ways of cooperation, we outlined a roadmap for developing our countries and building closer bilateral ties in an effort to tap the wide potential inherent in the Armenian-Chinese multidisciplinary cooperation in the frame of the Belt and Road Initiative.

I am confident that the agreements we have reached will continue to be implemented to the benefit of our two countries and for the well-being of the Armenian and Chinese peoples.

I wish you robust health, every success and all the best, as well as peace and prosperity  to the friendly Chinese people.



***



Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has also sent a congratulatory message to Li Keqiang, Premier of the State Council of the Peoples Republic of China.

On behalf of the Government of the Republic of Armenia and on my own behalf, I extend heartfelt congratulations to you and to the Government of China on the 71st anniversary of Proclamation of the Peoples Republic of China.

China was able to successfully defy the challenge of COVID-19 through effective and targeted governance and is taking consistent steps to recover the economy. I highly appreciate the continued top-level contacts between our two countries and the mutual assistance provided amid the pandemic-caused global emergency.

Armenia is keen to develop comprehensive, sustainable and consistent ties of interaction and expand the ongoing multifaceted partnership with China. I am hopeful that the agreements reached during the visit I paid to China last May will continue to be implemented once we remove the impediments caused by the pandemic. I look forth to recording tangible economic achievements to the benefit of our two countries and nations.

I wish Your Excellency robust health, as well as peace and prosperity- to the friendly people of China, the congratulatory message reads.
Liberty University on Tuesday paid former President Jerry Falwell Jr. the severance owed under his employment agreement, according to a statement from the university.

The university said Falwell is entitled to two years of his base salary and accrued retirement benefits, which likely totals more than $2 million, according to tax records and past statements by Falwell.

But Falwell, who resigned last month after a series of personal scandals, previously has said his contract entitles him to $10.5 million because the university board placed him on leave without cause, a violation of his employment agreement.

Falwell told several media outlets after his resignation the school owes him $2.5 million over 24 months  the equivalent of two years pay  and a lump-sum payment of $8 million after two years.

Falwell said Tuesday the lump-sum payment is contingent on certain things, including abiding by an agreement not to work for a different university for two years.

I dont get that money unless certain things happen, he said.

In its statement, Liberty appeared to dispute Falwells claim he is owed up to $10.5 million, saying previously published media reports regarding the size and terms of the severance are incorrect.

Neither Liberty nor Falwell have made the the separation agreement available to the public for confirmation.

Falwell has said the terms of his separation from Liberty were agreed to in 2019 when he renegotiated his contract with the school. Falwell told The News & Advance in a text message last month that his salary was based on what presidents at comparable sized universities had been paid.

Falwell was paid slightly more than $1 million in 2017, according to the universitys most recent public tax filing. He told The Wall Street Journal last month his salary was $1.25 million as of 2020.

The university also said the terms of Falwells severance compensation were dictated by his pre-existing employment agreement.

There was no severance and no retirement negotiated in exchange for Mr. Falwells resignation last month, the university said in its statement.

The university said the only additional compensation Falwell is owed beyond two years base pay are retirement benefits accrued during his time as an employee.

Liberty did not disclose how much Falwell is owed in benefits but the former university president said it is equivalent to roughly $8 million.

These accrued retirement payments reflect reasonable terms after 30 years of service to Liberty, with 13 as university president, the university said.

Libertys board now is conducting an investigation into Falwells tenure as president. In a statement last month, the university said it had hired a leading forensics firm to investigate all facets of the schools operation under the former president, including financial, real estate and legal matters.

Jerry Prevo, a longtime chair of the schools board of trustees, currently serves as acting president. Libertys board also now is in the process of choosing a permanent president.

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Queensland's border will remain closed to most of NSW until after the state election on October 31, Deputy Premier Steven Miles has confirmed.

The 28 days of zero community virus transmission in NSW that Queensland demanded before reopening the border was reset last Friday even though health authorities believed they had linked the case to a known outbreak.

The Queensland government has eased border restrictions to allow residents from select border towns in NSW to enter Queensland. Credit:Getty

NSW Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant said genome testing of the western Sydney man "indicates that he has a type of genome sequence that is linked to [the Liverpool Hospital cluster]".

However, NSW Health had not been able to find "a definitive source or interaction" that caused the transmission and it would be up to Queensland health authorities to determine if they still considered the case not to be linked to the known cluster.
A look at some of todays biggest headlines from select sources.

6 takeaways from the off-the-rails first debate between Biden and Trump President Donald Trump turned his first debate with Democratic rival Joe Biden into a chaotic disaster.

Analysis: In Trump-Biden debate chaos, China is the big winner In an ugly, cantankerous presidential debate, one of the few things Donald Trump and Joe Biden agreed upon was China.

Trump unleashes avalanche of repeat lies at first presidential debate President Donald Trump and Democratic nominee Joe Biden will face off in the first 2020 presidential debate tonight live from Cleveland, Ohio. CNN will hold the two candidates equally accountable by pointing out whats true and whats not. Follow our live fact-checking here throughout the night.

More than 60 million people in India may have caught Covid-19, survey finds One in 15 people in India may have contracted Covid-19, health authorities said on Tuesday  many times higher than the official reported figures.

Shell to cut up to 9,000 jobs in shift to low-carbon energy Royal Dutch Shell will slash as many as 9,000 jobs as the oil giant accelerates a shift away from fossil fuels.

Post-debate CNN poll: Six in 10 say Biden won the debate Six in 10 debate watchers said former Vice President Joe Biden did the best job in Tuesdays debate, and just 28% say President Donald Trump did, according a CNN Poll of debate watchers conducted by SSRS.

There is no getting back to normal. We need to accept it The human tendency to believe change is temporary and that the future will again resemble the past is called normalcy bias. Eventually, however, people need to adapt to change, psychologists say.

Mars might have salty ponds next to its underground lake, raising possibility of Martian life Two years ago, scientists detected what looked like a salty lake under the surface of Mars southern ice cap.

Private jets are more accessible than ever. Heres how to hire one These Covid-era days, fewer people want to sit on a plane literally rubbing elbows with strangers, so theyre looking for alternative ways to (CNN)  travel that minimize close contact. For journeys where driving or taking a train are impractical, theres another alternative that may actually be more accessible than most people think: flying a private jet.

Confessions of a VIP private jet flight attendant (CNN)  For many, the thought of catching a plane is far from luxurious: from spending countless hours lining up at security, to wrestling arm rests with other passengers as you face a crammed long-haul flight in economy.

Lying, Cheating, Barking, Bullying: Donald Trump Hijacked The First Presidential Debate It took only minutes into the first presidential debate for Joe Biden to snap at Donald Trump in response to the presidents interruptions during a question about the Supreme Court. But the heated exchange was only a precursor to the ugly night ahead in what was perhaps the most chaotic and toxic presidential debate in modern history.

Trump Refuses To Condemn White Supremacists  Tells Proud Boys To Stand By President Donald Trump refused to condemn white supremacist violence on Tuesday night, insisting without evidence that violence is a left-wing problem. During the first presidential debate, moderator Chris Wallace of Fox News asked Trump if he was willing to condemn white supremacists and militia groups and tell them to stand down in places like Kenosha, Wisconsin, and Portland, Oregon  cities where heavily armed far-right extremists have shown up to anti-racism demonstrations as counterprotesters.

5 Racist Trump Moments From The First 2020 Presidential Debate President Donald Trump regularly waded into racist tropes while up against former Vice President Joe Biden in the first 2020 presidential debate. Aside from a bevy of personal attacks, misinformation and chaotic interruption, Trump regularly waded into racist tropes and outright refused to condemn violent right-wing militia groups as moderator Chris Wallace of Fox News sought to ask the candidates about COVID-19, the nations summer of racial justice protests and their support for Americans of color.

Congos sapeurs pass their style on to a new generation Some residents of the twin Congolese capitals of Brazzaville and Kinshasa have long been known for their love of stylish dressing  in particular members of the Society of Ambience-Makers and Elegant People (Sape). These photographs by Tariq Zaidi reveal a whole new generation of sapeurs.

The most effective ways to support a loved one who believes in QAnon Sometimes a conspiracy theory is a far-fetched explanation for events we cant understand. We might turn to it when the official story seems suspect or unbelievable, or when politicians and media personalities (think President Trump and Alex Jones) insist on a version disproved by facts and experts.

Everyone agrees the first Trump vs. Biden debate was a total disaster The first 2020 presidential debate was a disaster. A shouty, incomprehensible, undercooked turducken stitched from the carcasses of a debate and a drunken Thanksgiving argument and a phone video of a racist shouting slurs on a bus.

What to expect at Googles Launch Night In 2020 hardware event On September 30, Google will hold its annual hardware event. Due to the pandemic, the event will be livestreamed to the public at 11 a.m. PT. To help boost morale during these trying times, the tech giant has also thrown in a Launch Night In theme, assuring viewers that the best seat in the house is actually your couch.

Fake news runs amok as Trump and Biden prepare for the first presidential debate The big day is finally here. Tonight, President Donald Trump and the Democratic nominee Joe Biden will meet face-to-face for the 2020 elections first presidential debate. Their campaigns, however, have already had a very eventful day so far. The Trump campaign has spent the day spreading conspiracy theories and misinformation designed to paint Joe Biden as an incompetent debater or cheater.

Biden asks Trump what everyones thinking: Will you shut up, man? Joe Biden isnt moderating the first presidential debate, but he did have one very important question for Donald Trump: Will you shut up, man? For those who arent subjecting themselves to this extremely painful night of Men Talking Over Each Other. Heres what you need you need to know.
LONDON, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- On 22 September, in a statement to the United Nations General Assembly, President Xi Jinping announced to world leaders that China "aims to have CO2 emissions peak before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2060"1. The part of this statement concerning CO2 was brief and included no further details about the means by which China would pursue these goals.

This Insight explains why CRU believes that this announcement is extremely important and which industries are likely to be impacted most significantly. In a series of CRU Insights that will follow over the next several months, CRU will write about the strategies that are being used to meet these CO2 targets as more details supporting this announcement unfold. We will focus on the impact of these policies on the mining, metals and fertilizer industries. CRU's China offices are uniquely placed to follow this topic and to help clients evaluate the implications of these policies.

Why is this important?

In total volume, China is the biggest emitter of CO2, producing around 27% of global CO2 emissions. China has already embarked on a carbon emission reduction program and signed up to the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. However, this unexpected announcement is likely to prove very significant since it represents a unilateral announcement to the whole world that China intends to "take decisive steps to honor the Paris Agreement".

Previous experience suggests that China has the capability and track record to carry through what it plans to do, especially concerning environmental goals. Previous targets announced for the 13th Five-Year Plan (2016-2020) have largely been met. In fact, China is well on its way to meeting its first challenge for carbon emissions to peak before 2030. However, the second challenge to reverse and offset CO2 emissions to obtain carbon neutrality before 2060 is a gargantuan challenge.

This is not just because China is the largest producer of CO2 emissions but also because of where China is in its development trajectory. China is still in the "catch-up" growth phase of its development, navigating additional infrastructure and urbanization, which will make carbon neutrality a "bigger ask" relative to other advanced economies who have comfortably passed that phase of peak energy demand. Some radical changes to energy and industrial policy are likely to be required which will impact all aspects of economic life in China.

Read the full story:

https://www.crugroup.com/knowledge-and-insights/insights/2020/china-announces-ambitious-plans-for-carbon-neutrality-before-2060/

Read more about CRU: http://bit.ly/About_CRU

About CRU

CRU offers unrivalled business intelligence on the global metals, mining and fertilizer industries through market analysis, price assessments, consultancy and events.

Since our foundation by Robert Perlman in 1969, we have consistently invested in primary research and robust methodologies, and developed expert teams in key locations worldwide, including in hard-to-reach markets such as China.

CRU employs over 280 experts and has more than 11 offices around the world, in Europe, the Americas, China, Asia and Australia  our office in Beijing opened in 2004 and Singapore in 2018.

When facing critical business decisions, you can rely on our first-hand knowledge to give you a complete view of a commodity market. And you can engage with our experts directly, for the full picture and a personalised response.

CRU  big enough to deliver a high-quality service, small enough to care about all of our customers.

City of origin: London

SOURCE CRU
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 17:29:29|Editor: huaxia

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The China National Space Administration (CNSA) releases mid-flight images of Mars probe Tianwen-1 as the country's National Day coincides with the Mid-Autumn Festival on Oct. 1, 2020. It is the first time that Tianwen-1 took selfies. (China National Space Administration /Handout via Xinhua)

BEIJING, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- The China National Space Administration (CNSA) released mid-flight images of Mars probe Tianwen-1 as the country's National Day coincided with the Mid-Autumn Festival on Thursday.

Tianwen-1 reports safety to the motherland and sends its best birthday wishes, said the CNSA in a press release.

The images showed China's five-star red flag dazzling with the golden orbiter and the silver lander and rover in the darkness of the universe.

The flag on Tianwen-1, weighing about 144 grams, is about 39 cm by 26cm in dimension, slightly smaller than a piece of A3 paper. It is sprayed onto the probe with special materials and overprint technology, the CNSA said.

It is the first time that Tianwen-1 took selfies. The images were captured by a separating measurement sensor installed on the outer wall of Tianwen-1. With commands from ground control on Earth, the sensor separated from Tianwen-1 and took one picture every second with its two wide-angle lenses. The images were sent to Tianwen-1 via Wi-Fi and then dispatched to Earth.

As of midnight Wednesday, Tianwen-1 has flown about 188 million km and is currently 24.10 million km away from Earth. All probe systems are in good condition.

China launched the Mars probe on July 23. It was designed to complete orbiting, landing and roving in one mission. The probe is expected to reach the red planet around February 2021.

The probe has successfully captured a photo of Earth and the moon, and completed mid-course orbital correction twice and self-check on multiple payloads. 
UPDATE: 2 men shot in Bethlehem as the sound of 18 gunshots caught on nearby surveillance video

Bethlehem police on Wednesday night were investigating a reported shooting, one day after a high school senior was shot to death in the city.

A Northampton County 911 dispatch supervisor confirmed the Wednesday night incident, and said one person was taken by ambulance to the hospital.

It was reported about 6:50 p.m. in the area of Garfield Street and Pembroke Road, along the border between Bethlehem and Freemansburg.

A few minutes earlier, Easton police were called at 6:43 p.m. to investigate a report of shots fired and disturbance at South Cherry and Pine streets, Lt. Matthew Gerould told lehighvalleylive.com. Police were continuing to investigate whether a shot was actually fired during what turned out to be a domestic fight, involving people known to each other, he said. There was no one hit by any gunfire or any property damage, according to police. A vehicle stopped in the area of South 13th and Northampton streets was part of the same investigation, Gerould confirmed.

Easton police asked anyone with information on the incident to call Sgt. Ryan Boorstein via 610-759-2200.

In Bethlehem, police established a large crime scene, with multiple yards taped off north of Pembroke Road in the public housing development there. Officers closed Pembroke Road between Clearfield Street/Livingston Street and Roosevelt Street, and also had Dover Lane closed in the area.

Bethlehem police could not be reached immediately for information.

In Tuesday nights shooting, Bethlehem police charged three teenagers with homicide in the shooting death of 17-year-old Aiden Toussaint, a senior at Whitehall High School. That incident occurred during an apparent marijuana deal-turned-robbery near Norwood Street and Dearborn Avenue, in Saucon Park.

There was no indication any of the three incidents were connected.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com.

Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com.
Turkey: 'gag law' enacted on social media Tightening on posts and video. NGO: 'They want to block dissent'

(ANSAmed) - ISTANBUL, OCTOBER 1 - A new law that imposes severe state control on social media goes into effect in Turkey on Thursday. The Turkish Parliament approved the law at the end of July amidst heavy controversy from the opposition and freedom-of-speech activists. The law imposes obligations on web giants such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, which will from now on have to have a local contact person who is legally responsible for content and its eventual removal by request of judiciary authorities. The law concerns social media, with over a million unique visitors per day, and requires user data to be saved on local servers, raising fears of privacy violations. If the companies do not abide by the new law, they will face sanctions that range from high fines to a de facto blackout, with bandwidth reductions of up to 90%. For the party of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the new law is needed to "put an end to offences and insults". Civil rights associations, on the other hand, said it is one more hit on freedom of expression in a country in which the majority of traditional media is in the hands of pro-government groups. "It's impossible in a country like Turkey to suppress social media, it is so much a part of people's lives," said Emma Sinclair-Webb, the Turkey director of Human Rights Watch, adding that the law's real objective is to "silence disputes and block the flow of information". According to the specialised observatory EngelliWeb, in 2019 alone Turkey blocked access to 408,000 websites and blacked out 40,000 tweets, 6,200 Facebook posts, and 10,000 YouTube videos.(ANSAmed).(ANSA).




Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey apologized Wednesday to Sarah Collins Rudolph, a survivor of a Ku Klux Klan bombing that left her severely injured and killed four Black girls, including her sister, in 1963.

In a letter sent to Collins Rudolph's lawyers, Ivey offered a "sincere, heartfelt apology" for the "racist, segregationist rhetoric used by some of our leaders during that time."

Ivey said there should be no question that Collins Rudolph, who was 12 when Klan members bombed 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham 57 years ago, and the four other girls "suffered an egregious injustice that has yielded untold pain and suffering over the ensuing decades."

IMAGE: Sarah Collins Rudolph and George Rudolph (Dave Martin / AP file)

Lawyers for Collins Rudolph had said in a letter to Ivey this month that, while hard-line segregationist officials like Gov. George Wallace didn't place the bomb next to the building, they played an "undisputed role in encouraging its citizens to engage in racial violence."

Collins Rudolph lost her right eye in the bombing. Glass fragments remained in her left eye, her abdomen and her chest for years after, according to The Associated Press.

Her sister, Addie Mae Collins, 14, was killed. So were Cynthia Wesley and Carole Robertson, also 14, and Denise McNair, 11.

"She has born the burdens of the bombing for virtually her entire life, and we believe her story presents an especially meritorious and unique opportunity for the State of Alabama to right the wrongs that its past leaders encouraged and incited," the letter to Ivey said.

The lawyers, who are from the Washington, D.C., firm Jenner & Block and are representing Collins Rudolph pro bono, had asked for an official apology as well as compensation.

Ivey's letter doesn't specifically address compensation, noting that the Legislature would have to be involved, and it says "other questions" raised by the lawyers will need to be reviewed.

"It would seem to me that beginning these conversations  without prejudice for what any final outcome might produce but with a goal of finding mutual accord  would be a natural extension of my administration's ongoing efforts to foster fruitful conversations" about race, Ivey said.

Rudolph Collins' lawyers, Ishan Bhabha and Alison Stein, said in a statement that they were "gratified" by the apology and that they looked forward to future talks about compensation.
A 22-yr-old Dalit woman died after she had allegedly been gang-raped by two youths in a Balrampur village in Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday, said police. The victim was cremated on Wednesday night itself after post-mortem by a panel of four doctors.

The incident occurred on Tuesday when the girl had gone to take admission in a college near her village but did not return home till late evening, superintendent of police of Balrampur, Dev Ranjan Verma, said. The girl later returned on a rickshaw with glucose drip inserted in her hand while family members were searching for her.

Also read: Hathras cops cremate rape victim by stealth

Verma said the family members stated that the girls condition was not good so they rushed her to a nearby hospital and later to the Balrampur district hospital where she succumbed to her injuries.

While the family has alleged that the girls hands and legs were fractured, police officials state that no such injuries were confirmed in the post-mortem examination.

The accused have been arrested after an FIR was registered following a complaint filed by the victims brother, officials said. Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 376-D for gang rape and 302 for murder have been slapped against the two accused and further probe is on, the police official quoted above added.

Also read: More outrage, protests after Hathras victims cremation

The SP said the case will be sent to a fast track court and strictest action will be taken against the accused.
There are lots of reminders out there to vote, but not like this.

Police and the district attorneys office in Greene County, Pa., are investigating what they are calling Ku Klux Klan flyers placed in mailboxes urging residents to Vote Pro-White, among other things.

KDKA-TV in Pittsburgh quotes William DeForte, the Greene County Regional Police Department captain, as saying the KKK white supremacy flyers started showing up in the county about two weeks ago, with the most recent distribution Tuesday.

The Observer-Reporter newspaper published a photo of a flyer, which reads: Vote in person. Wear a mask. Vote pro-America, pro-constitution, pro-law-and-order, and vote pro-white.

Here is a tweet with an image of the flyer:

KKK Flyers Distributed In Parts Of Greene County https://t.co/AyKz5lCPsJ  KDKA (@KDKA) October 1, 2020

The flyers also include "kontact information for the Loyal White Knights, a group described by the Anti-Defamation League as "one of the largest and most active Klan groups in the United States, KDKA reports, adding:

The flyers have appeared in mailboxes, at the edge of driveways and at local businesses. The flyers are usually in plastic bags with birdseed inside to weigh them down, KDKA writes.

DeForte told KDKA several residents came forward after receiving a flyer.

They will not tolerate the Ku Klux Klan or any other organization that is going to spread racial filth in their communities, he said.

The investigation continues.

BREAKING NOW:

Pa. election machine warehouse burglarized; laptop, USB drives stolen

Pa. man who lived in Like Home daycare admits sexually assaulting 3 young girls there

Pa. womans hoarding is so bad it endangered 12-year-old girl forced to do homework on toilet seat: cops

5 people shot on Pa. porch as man walks up and opens fire: cops
Nallely Camacho hasnt worked since March, and doesnt know when she will again.

Laid off from her job as a breakfast attendant at the Hyatt House hotel in Emeryville at the outset of the pandemic, Camacho, a single mom, is increasingly desperate to get her old union job back to support her two kids. She had hoped a bill, AB3216, would help her do that.

Gov. Gavin Newsom dashed her and others hopes when he vetoed the bill Wednesday, saying the Legislature should consider other approaches to solving the problems of workers like Camacho.

The bill would have created return to work rights for some laid-off workers in industries hit hardest by the pandemic including hospitality, event centers, airports, building services and others.

As those businesses looked to rehire staff, they would have been required to start with rehiring those they laid off. If the firms hired a different worker for a restored role, they would have been obligated to provide the laid-off worker with the name of the person who filled their job and the reason for the hire. Newsom said in a letter to the Legislature rejecting the bill that latter requirement in particular risked the sharing of too much personal information.

Governor Newsoms veto of AB 3216 is devastating news to the tens of thousands of workers across our state who have been laid off during this pandemic, Assemblymember Ash Kalra, D-San Jose, said in a statement.

More for you Unemployment filings ease in US and California, but newly jobless could see lower payments

On a day when Disney announced that it would be laying off over 28,000 employees and when reports suggest that Californias economic recovery could take at least two years, this feels like a missed chance at a recovery for all. While I am disappointed in the decision, I know this is a fight that does not end today. I am committed to continue the march for dignity and job security for our workers and will not relent in the protection of our most vulnerable communities.

The bill saw opposition from the state business establishment, including the California Chamber of Commerce, which called it a job killer that would have placed restrictions on businesses still emerging from the deep freeze of the ongoing pandemic.

The Chamber praised the veto in a statement, saying it would have delayed the rehire of thousands of employees and slowed the economic recovery of many employers who have been the hardest hit by this pandemic. We are grateful that the governor chose not to further burden these industries at a time when they can least afford it."

Newsom wrote that the bill would have placed too onerous a burden on employers emerging from the recession.

The business groups letter also raised concerns that the language of the bill would have force employers to offer almost any position to employees by order of seniority, during a state of emergency around the virus that could go on indefinitely.

Some workers will nevertheless retain protections under similar ordinances in cities and localities across the Bay Area.

In July, the San Francisco Board of Supervisors passed a temporary ordinance granting a right of re-employment to laid-off workers in certain industries, but that measure expired this month.

Oakland passed a re-employment measure over the summer, similar to an existing Los Angeles ordinance, covering employers in the airport hospitality, restaurant, events and other industries.

Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes

Some unions, including Unite Here Local 2850 of which Camacho is a member, advocated strongly for the bill, organizing caravans of members from the Bay Area to Sacramento to ask Newsom to sign the bill.

Ty Hudson, a spokesperson for Unite Here, said that the legislation would have benefited union and nonunion workers alike and that wages and benefits for rehired union workers would largely depend on existing contracts, unless they were renegotiated.

Most of those people are at risk ... of never going back to their old jobs, Hudson said.

Hudson said it is more urgent now to give laid-off workers a better shot at working again in light of expanded federal unemployment benefits expiring over the summer.

Since mid-March the state Employment Development Department has processed more than 11 million applications for unemployment assistance, underscoring the massive layoffs that have roiled the state.

For Camacho, the former Hyatt employee, waiting and relying on unemployment benefits is not an option. She is a single mother with two children to care for. She said she is looking for a job working nights as a cleaner or shelf stocker that will allow her to spend time during the day with her children to help with their virtual schooling.

Im not the only one in this situation, she said. Its hard for everybody to not know if they can go back to their job.

Chase DiFeliciantonio is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: chase.difeliciantonio@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @ChaseDiFelice
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 1) The overlaying of sand with crushed dolomite boulders along a portion of Manila Bay will not help solve the environmental problems and issues hounding the area, according to the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute.

In a statement on Wednesday, the UP MSI warned that the use of the controversial dolomite sand a project in line with the bays rehabilitation program  may pose possible health risks and threats to the marine environment.

The institute explained that dolomite sand grains are expected to erode, given the conditions in coastal parts of Metro Manila during storm seasons. It said that even with a presence of a breakwater, or an artificial structure built for protection from waves, elevated seas and huge waves brought by weather disturbances can still penetrate the baywalk.

Sea level rise in our tropical seas yield the highest rates in the world, about three to four times more than the global average of 3.3 mm/yr, the UP MSI said.

Beach nourishment projects are not one-shot deals, especially for continuously eroding shorelines... Hence, continuously replacing the sand will be expensive and will not contribute to improving water quality in the Bay, the institute added, noting that erosion threat and poor water quality are the two major problems Manila Bay is currently facing.

Aside from the environmental impact, the UP MSI said that the finer particles of dolomite can be problematic with prolonged dust inhalation seen to cause chronic health effects to the public. These risks include discomfort in the chest, shortness of breath, and coughing.

The Health Department earlier said that the dolomite dumped along the stretch in Roxas Boulevard cannot cause adverse health effects, since the product is not small enough to be inhaled.

A recently-published report by the Environment Department also showed that the dolomite sand in Manila Bay is not classified as hazardous, as tests done on its samples did not exceed the limits set in the agencys Revised Procedures and Standards for the Management of Hazardous Wastes.

No shortcuts

With environmental advocates strongly opposing the 389-million beautification project, the government assured the program was thoroughly reviewed before implementation.

RELATED: Funding for Manila Bay 'white sand' can't be realigned for COVID-19 response  Roque

The UP MSI stressed that there should be no shortcuts in the rehabilitation program for Manila Bay, adding that the aesthetic initiative is  at most a beautification effort that is costly and temporary.

The clean-up of Manila Bay will be a long and arduous task. It must be a concerted effort by everyone living in its watersheds and those using the bay, it said. These are achieved with government interventions, social and community behavioral change, and legislations and policy guidelines implemented.

The Manila Bay white beach" project is currently on its second phase of development.
Michael Schwartz/Getty

Not enough alcohol in the world right now, Lewis Black tweeted Tuesday night during the first presidential debate between Donald Trump and Joe Biden.

Like the rest of the country, the comedian was horrified by what he was watching. He just happens to be better than most Americans at putting that horror into words.

What happened last night was unconscionable on so many levels, Black tells me during our taping for this coming weeks episode of The Last Laugh podcast. Every so often in my life, Ive regretted not having children, he adds. But basically I feel like I made that choice and I live with that choice and it isnt something that undermines me. But nights like that, watching that debate and if I was sitting with children and having to explain what they were seeing, I would lose my mind.

I needed to sit by myself and bellow at the top of my lungs! Black exclaims. And while he didnt expect any better from the man he will only refer to as the leader, he was especially disappointed in the performance from Fox News moderator Chris Wallace.

We did better debates in high school, Black says. I mean Im sure that in places like rural Minnesota they did debates over fishing rights that were better run. Chris Wallace, look, he went to high school! He knows what a debate is about! Theres no mute button, seriously?! Come on, its disgusting!

Seth Meyers Nails Pathetic Fox News Spin of Trumps Debate Disaster

When I ask the man who has spent the last 24 years ranting about all kinds of topics on his long-running Daily Show segment Back in Black what Wallace could have possibly done to get Trump under control, he does not hesitate to provide an answer.

He could have stood up and said, I will not tolerate this, Black says. What he said two-thirds of the way through the debate should have been said at the very beginning of the debate.

After about an hour of Trump running roughshod over both him and Biden, Wallace finally shut the president down, saying, Gentlemen, I hate to raise my voice, but why shouldnt I be different than the two of you? Biden responded with, Thats a good point.

Story continues

It was never like this! Black says of the entire spectacle. It boggles the mind.

The 72-year-old comedian, whose new stand-up special Thanks for Risking Your Life premieres next week, spent most of the debate waiting for Biden to channel the attorney who infamously asked Senator Joseph McCarthy, "At long last, have you left no sense of decency?"

I have waited four years for that to be spoken, he says. Four years of my life Ive waited for somebody at some point, and I was hoping last night, whennot the first time that he talked about his son [Hunter], but the second time, I thought that would be a point to turn to him and say something to the equivalent of that.

He imagined Biden looking the president square in the eyes and telling him, This is my child. I do not speak of your children.

The closest thing we got was Biden firing back at Trump with, Will you shut up, man?!

Subscribe to The Last Laugh podcast now to hear our full conversation with Lewis Black about his new stand-up special, almost losing his lucrative Daily Show gig, personifying Anger in Pixars Inside Out and a lot more when it drops next Tuesday, October 6th.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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A Harris County judge on Thursday acquitted the final two defendants in a case brought against Arkema Inc. and several executives arising from a 2017 chemical plant disaster, ending the trial and leaving prosecutors without a single conviction in the high-profile environmental crimes case.

Judge Belinda Hill brought the case to rest in a trial that started in February but was interrupted for six months by the coronavirus pandemic, then moved to NRG Arena for social distancing purposes. Hill issued directed verdicts, which are extremely rare, in three of the five charges initially brought against the company, two top executives and a plant manager stemming from the emission of toxic chemicals from its Crosby facility during Hurricane Harvey in 2017. The other two charges were dismissed.

Prosecutors faced serious challenges from the start  the judge found misconduct before jurors even took their seats in February  and their problems snowballed in September with the dismissals and a second finding of prosecutorial misconduct. Hill ultimately found that prosecutors failed to prove the facts they outlined in their indictment. The outcome dealt a major defeat to Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg as she seeks a second term next month.

Eleven defense attorneys who gathered for a news conference afterward said they had never experienced a trial like this one. Dan Cogdell, who represented one former executive, Michael Keough, called the event a mirage of a prosecution.

It brings me to the question about what this district attorneys office is really after, asked Letitia Quinones, who represented Arkema. Is it justice, or is it political motives to advance their own careers?

Now Playing: Leslie Comardelle, former Arkema plant manager talks during a news conference Thursday, Oct. 1, 2020, in Houston. A Harris County judge granted on Thursday the acquittal of the final two defendants, which includes Comardelle, in the trial against chemical company Arkema Inc. Video: Marie D. De Jesus Houston Chronicle

The DAs office was disappointed by the outcome, said Dane Schiller, a spokesman for the office. Hill issued her last two directed verdicts just before both sides were set to present closing arguments, preventing those cases from reaching the jury. In a directed verdict, a judge finds that there is no way for a jury to reach a certain conclusion.

We trust Harris County juries to weigh the evidence and decide whether a crime was committed; it is disappointing and frustrating this jury will not get to render a decision, Schiller said. Todays ruling by a judge doesnt change the fact that dangerous chemicals on Arkema property ignited and were belched in a cloud of toxic smoke over the surrounding communities, and a first responder there protecting people is now on a lung-transplant list.

Plant disaster during storm

At issue were actions taken by the company and then-executives prior to and during Hurricane Harvey three years ago. Water from Harvey inundated the plant site, built on a 100-year and 500-year floodplain, and cut off power to several trailers cooling the companys temperature-regulated organic peroxides. Those chemicals ignited, releasing toxic smoke over the area and resulting in the hospitalization of 21 people, including two sheriffs deputies. Nearly 200 people were evacuated.

Arkema, CEO Richard Rowe and then-Crosby plant manager Leslie Comardelle were indicted in August 2018 on charges of reckless emission of an air contaminant under the Texas Water Code, accused of keeping toxic materials on site instead of moving them ahead of the storm.

Prosecutors in April 2019 then brought charges of felony assault on a public servant against the company and Keough, who was vice president for logistics at the time, saying they falsely informed county emergency management officials of their ability to monitor the trailers. Those charges were dismissed in September. The reckless-emission charges were dropped Wednesday against Rowe, and Thursday against the company and Comardelle.

In its final report, the Chemical Safety Board found that Arkema had a significant lack of guidance in planning for flooding. Dozens of federal and state civil lawsuits are still pending, with plaintiffs asserting that their health and safety were compromised as a result of the pollution.

Jackie Young Medcalf, executive director of the Texas Health and Environment Alliance, said Arkema now joins a long list of companies not held accountable for causing negative health and environmental effects in the community.

Time and time again, we see these companies not being held accountable, and we the people are the ones left with the burden, Medcalf said.

Comardelle and Rowe both acknowledged Thursday that their company has an environmental responsibility. Comardelle said people who were harmed should be justly compensated.

Civil cases will proceed

Mo Aziz, a civil litigation attorney representing more than 100 plaintiffs in lawsuits related to the Arkema disaster during Harvey, said the acquittals will not affect his cases.

The dismissal of the criminal case has no bearing on the civil litigation and does not alter the fact that permanent injuries were sustained by first responders and others due to the fire and explosion, he said.

Aziz himself is tied to claims that dogged Ogg throughout her offices unsuccessful prosecution of Arkema and its executives. Her critics and Arkemas attorneys said that the entire case was politically motivated and an effort to fulfill a campaign promise of prosecuting environmental crimes. The day that Ogg announced the felony assault charges against Keough and the company, the first-term Democrat attended a fundraiser held by Azizs firm  an event that Arkemas defense attorneys said was no coincidence.

Ogg had also tapped civil litigator Mike Doyle to act as a special prosecutor in the case. Arkema defense attorney Rusty Hardin criticized Doyle on Thursday for never having tried a criminal case, while others noted that Doyle is representing plaintiffs in a civil case arising from a botched drug raid by Houston police in 2019 that left two dead. Ogg has brought criminal charges against former police officers in that same case.

The criminal justice system is not intended to make social policy, Hardin said. The criminal justice system should not be a training ground for prosecutors who have never tried a criminal case It was a roving, raving disaster from the beginning.

Doyle and another civil attorney worked pro bono on the case.

Ogg, who is running for reelection against Republican Mary Nan Huffman, has denied that any of her offices prosecutions are politically motivated.

Arkemas lawyers also pointed to one of the prosecutorial misconduct hearings, during which Hill heard evidence that prosecutors presented false information to the grand jury that another company, Akzo Nobel, was able to move most of its product off-site before Harvey. Hardin said he found out during the trial that the company behaved in a nearly identical manner to Arkema.

The facts of this case did not warrant any indictments, and we do not believe any indictment would have been granted but for the false information presented to the grand jury by prosecutors, Arkema spokeswoman Janet Smith said.

Hill said she did not believe the misconduct was intentional.

Environmental crimes hard to prove

The companys attorneys fought their case with an Act of God defense, saying neither Arkema nor its executives could have prevented a natural disaster that caused massive damage as well as loss of life in the Houston area. Arkema Inc. is an American subsidiary of a French chemical manufacturer.

Arkema also repeatedly pointed to the heroism of company team members who responded to the disaster, trying to move the organic peroxides to safety within the plant and through high floodwaters. They blamed the emergency responders for their own injuries, adding that they were explicitly warned that emergency responders should wear respirators if they might be exposed to smoke from the fires, Smith said.

Tracy Hester, an associate professor of law at the University of Houston, said environmental crimes cases are notoriously difficult to win, and the defense was aided by stories of Arkemas attempts to move its product through rising water.

The outcome was still unusual, Hester said, and failed to set a precedent for other environmental-crimes cases for which Ogg could bring prosecutions, such as the fire at the Intercontinental Terminals Co. storage facility in Deer Park. That blaze burned for three days, created a black plume of smoke visible for miles, temporarily shut down the Houston Ship Channel and prompted several shelter-in-place orders in the area due to air quality concerns.

If the DA intends to continue with environmental prosecutions, theyre going to have to substantially increase the amount of resources and diligence they put in, Hester said.

The Arkema trial ended with Judge Hill citing a Texas law that requires the indictment sufficiently describe the alleged criminal conduct. The law guarantees a defendants right to have an indictment present fair notice of the charges against them.

State attorneys argued that Comardelle and the company made a decision not to move hazardous chemicals off-site ahead of and during Harvey. Hill said she interpreted the prosecution differently, saying the facts didnt match up. She also questioned whether Comardelle had the authority to make such a decision.

If those things were in the indictment, we wouldnt be having this discussion, Hill said.

samantha.ketterer@chron.com
S ir Keir Starmer will call for children to be taught more about Britains black history in school to give them "a full understanding of the struggle for equality".

The Labour leader will say the school curriculum should be made more diverse during a visit to the Museum of London with shadow equalities minister Marsha de Cordova, marking the start of Black History Month.

He said, in comments released prior to his visit: This month we celebrate the huge achievements of Black Britons and the Black community. But Black British history should be taught all year round, as part of a truly diverse school curriculum that includes and inspires all young people and aids a full understanding of the struggle for equality."

While some schools are already doing this, the government should ensure all students benefit from a diverse curriculum.

Ms De Cordova echoed this, saying: "If we want to be a progressive society then we really should be looking at ensuring that our history, black history, which is British history, is part of the curriculum."

The education charity Teach First has reported that pupils could graduate from secondary school without having studied a single literary work by a non-white author.

The debate over whether the curriculum should better represent black Britons has raged for decades. In 1999, The Macpherson report into the murder of Stephen Lawrence urged that consideration be given to amendment of the national curriculum aimed at valuing cultural diversity and preventing racism, in order better to reflect the needs of a diverse society.

The Windrush lessons learned review, published more than 20 years later, said the Windrush scandal was in part able to happen because of the publics and officials poor understanding of Britains colonial history, the history of inward and outward migration, and the history of black Britons.

Ms De Cordova said: The Black Lives Matter movement shone a light on racism in the UK and around the world. One way for the government to act would be to ensure that young people learn about Black British history, colonialism and understand Britains role in the transatlantic slave trade. Black history is British history.

At Prime Ministers Questions on Wednesday, Sir Keir urged Boris Johnson to launch and inquiry into racial inequalities, in particular the truly shocking statistic that black women are five times more likely to die in pregnancy and childbirth than white mothers.

Mr Johnson replied: This government has launched an urgent investigation into inequalities across the whole of society, and we will certainly address them in a thoroughgoing way, and I am amazed that he seems ignorant of that fact.

Sir Keirs spokesman later described that response as disappointing and dismissive, adding: We do hope he will take this issue seriously.

The Labour leader has faced calls from some in his party party to take a more vocal stance on BAME issues since global Black Lives Matter protests broke out following the death of George Floyd.

He and his deputy Angela Rayner were photographed taking the knee in solidarity with the movement, but he dismissed some protesters calls to defund the police as nonsense.

He also said he did not agree with some actions done in protest, including the toppling of the statue of slaveowner Edward Colston in Bristol.

He said at the time: Stepping back, that statue should have been taken down a long, long time ago. We cant, in 21st-century Britain, have a slaver on a statue.

But he insisted: It shouldnt have been done in that way, completely wrong to pull a statue down like that. That statue should have been brought down properly, with consent, and put, I would say, in a museum.

The Labour leader also expressed regret for referring to Black Lives Matter as a moment in an interview.
SAN JOSE (BCN)

Nora Frimann was appointed as San Jose's new city attorney, Mayor Sam Liccardo announced Tuesday.

As the city's second female city attorney, Frimann previously served in an interim role following the retirement of former City Attorney Rick Doyle, who recently passed away.

Frimann joined the City Attorney's Office in 2001 under Doyle's leadership. She served the role as assistant city attorney, responsible for litigation and related matters, before being appointed interim city attorney.

Additionally, Frimann is the office's representative to the League of California Cities Legal Advocacy Committee, a member of the executive committee of the William A. Ingram Inn of Court, and has served on various Santa Clara County Bar Association and federal court committees.

Further, prior to joining the city of San Jose, Frimann was a shareholder with Hoge Fenton, a major law firm based in San Jose, where she was one of the first women selected to be a managing shareholder at a premier law firm in California.

Frimann is a 2015 recipient of the Santa Clara County Bar Association's Professional Attorney of the Year award, and continues to teach and judge mock trials and trial practice classes at Santa Clara University and Stanford University Law Schools.

"I am honored to have been selected to serve San Jose as City Attorney," Frimann said. "The City Attorney's office will do our best to continue providing excellent legal services to meet the high standards set by Rick Doyle. I look forward to continuing to work with the Mayor and City council to serve the residents of San Jose."

"Over the 19 years of Nora's dedicated service to the city and leadership in the office, she's never wavered from doing what is best for the people of San Jose," said San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo. "She will continue to lead San Jose's legal team with tremendous competence, passion, and professionalism, and I look forward to working with her in her new role."

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.
Tax cuts look set to be the centrepiece of next Tuesdays federal budget. Should they be?

You'll no doubt have heard that the tax cuts  which admittedly no one outside the senior ranks of government and the federal bureaucracy have seen  are unfair, unaffordable and not the most effective form of stimulus to combat a pandemic.

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has indicated tax cuts and business investment incentives will be considered in the October budget. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

It's certainly true that there are more direct ways of stimulating an economy than broad-based tax cuts, such as targeted one-off cash grants or boosts to welfare payments.

But when it comes to tax cuts in this budget, it's not an either/or proposition. This is an AND budget. Tax cuts AND infrastructure AND investment incentives AND other spending.
Mumbais Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport has introduced nearly 50 of Sitas mobile-enabled kiosks, becoming one of the first airports in India to deliver a completely contactless way for passengers to check-in for their flight.

The technology allows passengers to use their mobile device to interact with kiosks. This significantly reduces the need to touch surfaces in the airport and meets the Ministry of Civil Aviations (MoCAs) new passenger processing guidelines aimed at reducing the risk of spreading Covid-19 infections.

Developed in response to rapidly changing passenger requirements as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, the application is a cost-effective alternative to significant investment in new low-touch infrastructure.

The solution leverages existing common-use kiosks and does not require changes or modifications to airlines existing Iata Cuss standard check-in applications.

Mumbai Airport handles more than 47 million passengers a year. With this technology, travelers passing through Terminal 2 of the airport can now simply scan a QR code on their mobile phone or tablet to operate the kiosks.

After scanning the QR code, they can then use their mobile device as a trackpad to control check-in and self-bag drop kiosks to print their boarding passes and bag tags.

Rajeev Jain, CEO, MIAL, said: With the focus on passenger convenience, the new contactless technology has been developed in response to the rapidly changing passenger requirements due to the Covid-19 pandemic. We want to reassure our patrons of their safety at the airport and are willing to go the extra mile to alleviate any fear of travel during these challenging times.

Maneesh Jaikrishna, Sita Vice President for the Indian Subcontinent, Dubai, Eastern & Southern Africa said: In the aftermath of Covid-19, we are focused in delivering technology solutions that help our customers quickly deliver a safe and smooth passenger journey. We are pleased to have supported Mumbai Airport with this, and were subsequently rolling this solution to other airports in India too.

Sita has developed a broad range of solutions to help airports through the post-Covid environment, detailed in the recent Runway for Future Operations report. Sita President for Europe, Sergio Colella, will also be discussing the aviation industrys recovery at the upcoming World Aviation Festival 2020.

-- Tradearabia News Service
KYODO NEWS - Oct 1, 2020 - 18:34 | All, Japan

Malaysian budget airline AirAsia Group is considering closing down its Japan operation and a final decision can be expected within a week, its chief executive said Thursday, citing the impact of COVID-19 on the aviation industry.

"I can confirm that we are looking at every option, including closing down the operation," Tony Fernandes told reporters when asked to confirm news reports that AirAsia Japan will cease business.

Related coverage:

Japan Airlines abandons "ladies and gentlemen" flight announcements

"AirAsia Japan, we are very small. We were just building ourselves when COVID-19 happened," the airline founder added.

A local government source told Kyodo News on Wednesday that AirAsia Japan Co. had told the prefectural government of Aichi, where the airline is based, that it was considering folding.

AirAsia Japan has had a checkered history.

It launched its first flight in 2012 from Narita airport near Tokyo as a joint venture with All Nippon Airways. But AirAsia quit the tie-up the following year and the airline became fully owned by ANA, changing its name to Vanilla Air.

Fernandes later resurrected AirAsia Japan with new partners, including e-commerce company Rakuten Inc., and the first flight under the new incarnation took off in 2017 from Nagoya's Chubu Centrair International Airport. It has a fleet of three aircraft.
A worker feared the 'Loch Ness Monster' was about to attack him before realising he was watching a kangaroo struggling to breathe while trapped in black industrial ooze.

Steve was excavating a seven-metre pit at the Cleanaway plant in Campbellfield, 16km north of Melbourne, on Wednesday when he spotted an animal floating in the sludge.

His boss Daniel Halemba rushed over to his employee, who said he feared the 'frightening creature' was the mythical beast known as 'Nessie'.

Steve was excavating a seven metre pit at the Cleanaway plant in Campbellfield, 16km north of Melbourne, on Wednesday, when he spotted a slimy creature (pictured) struggling in the disgusting black sludge

Upon closer inspection, it was identified as an eastern grey kangaroo who had gotten stuck in the seven metre deep pit filled with industrial ooze

'The words that were expressed to me was probably not suitable for your publication. It was all pretty freaky to be honest,' Mr Halemba told Yahoo News Australia.

The pair soon realised the animal was an eastern grey kangaroo, which was covered in a thick mix of oil, bitumen and sawdust after becoming trapped in the pit.

Animal rescuers were contacted, but the pair could not wait around for them watching the struggling animal.

They created a noose to help bring the kangaroo out of the seven-metre deep pit.

'We essentially made up a noose, dropped it into the pit with a little bit of finesse, and a couple of broomstick handles,' Mr Halemba said.

The pulled the roo out, wrapped the marsupial with a towel and gave him some water.

Mr Halemba said the kangaroo was not happy and kept 'hissing' at him following its ordeal in the pit.

The Cleanaway workers created a noose to help bring the kangaroo out of the pit and wrapped it in a towel

Wildlife Rescuer volunteer Leone Sorrentino said the kangaroo had to be euthanised after being stuck in the pit and consuming the content

Wildlife Rescuers Inc volunteer Leone Sorrentino arrived and was shocked at the sight in front of her.

She said the kangaroo was 'very angry, very distressed' after digesting some of the sludge.

Ms Sorrentino was heartbroken and had no choice but to euthanise the marsupial, which had no hope of survival.

'It was just horrific, these last moments of his life, and he's in some pit,' she said.

She suggested covers be placed over pits to ensure the incident isn't repeated.
Covid-19

Chandigarh: To augment the supply and distribution of Oxygen amid the Covid pandemic, the Punjab Government has set up state and district level task force to ensure that there is no shortfall, and is set to float tenders for installing generation plants and storage tanks in all the three Govt Medical College & Hospitals, with generation facilities at Civil Hospitals in Jalandhar and Ludhiana.

These decisions were announced by an official spokesperson after a virtual Covid review chaired by Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh.

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Covid-19

The estimated requirement for Liquid Medical Oxygen generators and storage facilities at the three GMCs at Amritsar, Patiala and Faridkot has been estimated at Rs 9.92 crore, and tenders for the same will be issued soon, Medical Education & Research Secretary Dr DK Tiwari informed the meeting.

Health Secretary Hussan Lal said all efforts were being made to ensure adequate and uninterrupted supply of medical oxygen for Covid patients even in the coming weeks.

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Besides setting up a State-level Task Force under the Department of Industries & Commerce, in collaboration with Transport and Medical Education, district level task force had also been set up under the respective CMO/GMDIC/Drug Inspector across districts.

Covid-19The daily requirement of Medical Oxygen of Govt & Pvt Health Institutions at present has been estimated at approximately 135 MT. Medical Oxygen procured in the state is about 75 MT and liquid Medical Oxygen available to the state is about 80MT, according to the Health Secretary.

The Health Department has also issued SOPs for optimal utilisation at healthcare facilities and has circulated Guidelines of Niti Aayog for Hospital Management Committee & Monitoring Teams.
Chris Cuomo and Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) clashed in a heated interview Wednesday night on CNN.

The Daily Beast reports the Republican senator was a guest on Cuomo Prime Time to talk about the upcoming Supreme Court battle and Cruzs latest book, but the conversation quickly devolved into a 20-minute shouting match with personal insults.

Cuomo asked Cruz about President Donald Trump side-stepping a call to condemn white supremacists and militia groups during Tuesdays presidential debate against Democratic candidate Joe Biden.

The press is partisan in this regard, Cruz said. Ten years ago, 2010, Joe Biden gave a eulogy for Robert Byrd who was a Klan cyclops of the KKK.

Youre really going to go with that? Cuomo responded. Youre going to go with this weak-ass argument here?! Byrd, who had a complete enlightenment about how hate was wrong, who changed his life, who spoke about it.

Cuomo said Trump similarly refused to disavow KKK leader David Duke and referred to very fine people in Charlottesville, and then reminded Cruz that Trump called Cruzs wife Heidi ugly during the 2016 Republican primary and pushed conspiracy theories about Cruzs father being involved in the JFK assassination.

The old Ted Cruz, who he called Lyin' Ted when he wasnt insulting your wife and father, what happened to that Ted? I dont know if he changed or just you changed, for some reason, Cuomo said.

Moments later, Cruz attacked the CNN hosts brother, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, over his response to the coronavirus pandemic and deaths in nursing homes.

Does it trouble you at all that New York and New Jersey had the highest death rates in the country? Cruz asked.

Of course, it all troubles me, Ted! And to watch guys like you stand by and stroke your beard like a wise man instead of telling the president to get on it when you have power is a problem, Chris Cuomo shot back.

Cruz returned fire: How about telling your brother to get on it?

My brother will stand on his own record, the CNN host said, defending Gov. Cuomo. Why dont you talk to the president like you talk to my brother, Ted? You afraid of him? You think hell smack you down at home? Is that what it is? Like he shut you up in the primary?

Yeah, Im terrified of the Cuomos, Cruz said sarcastically.

Im talking about the president. My brothers not the president, Chris Cuomo continued. The one who called you a liar, who said your wife was ugly, that guy! The guy now who you wont say anything about!

Chris Cuomo and Ted Cruz became trending topics on social media as viewers reacted to the heated exchange.

Apparently, Chris Cuomo and Ted Cruz decided to reenact last nights debate on live tv, one Twitter user joked.

Chris Cuomo to Ted Cruz after Cruz attacks his brother:



"Why dont you talk to the president like you talk to my brother? You afraid of him? ... My brothers not the president. Im talking about the president. The one who called you a liar, the one who said your wife was ugly!" pic.twitter.com/k5rbElyzPy  Justin Baragona (@justinbaragona) October 1, 2020

CRUZ: "Was it a mistake when your brother implemented a policy that nursing homes had to accept covid positive patients?"



CUOMO: "My brother was the first to say that there was a learning curve, mistakes were made, and they changed things as soon as they could." pic.twitter.com/Z7MJfz2yqh  Daily Caller (@DailyCaller) October 1, 2020

Chris Cuomo just reminded Ted Cruz that Trump called his wife uglyyyyy....



and Ted Cruz didn't defend her.#cnn pic.twitter.com/400kUfIn97  EveAdams (@Eveadamsnj) October 1, 2020

Apparently, Chris Cuomo and Ted Cruz decided to reenact last nights debate on live tv   Lord David Shuttleworth II (@SunnyrainBeats) October 1, 2020

"Chris, do you actually want to talk substance?" @TedCruz asks @ChrisCuomo.



"We are talking substance. I just like to call out the hypocrisy...because the audience heads stay on straight that way," replies the host amid an interview ranging from the debate to Covid-19 testing. pic.twitter.com/XOaVrHxVjD  Cuomo Prime Time (@CuomoPrimeTime) October 1, 2020
Chinas insects and other invertebrates are spoilt for choice with the countrys array of deserts, rainforests, mountains and tropical coastlines. The winning photographs of the Wild China Biodiversity Photography Contest hosted by Wild China Film present the countrys sweeping lands and rare plants from unexpected perspectives. Here is a pick of the crop

Jan 21, 2022 06:20 PM
COVID-19 In Canada

Quebec imposes $1,000 fines for people not following rules in red zones

Quebec Premier Francois Legault announced additional enforcement of the public health rules in place in red zones of the province, Montreal, Quebec City and Chaudiere-Appalaches.

If youre inviting guests for a party, youre breaking the law, Legault said. When this happens, police officers can give fines of $1,000.

He went on to say that if someone is not cooperating with police, a warrant can be requested and received in the same night, but also confirmed officers will not be on a witch hunt knocking on random doors throughout these regions.

Anyone who is not wearing a mask during a public protest can also receive a $1,000 fine.

Outside gatherings will also be forbidden, Legault said. Police officers will start by trying to disperse the gatherings but if people dont cooperate they could get tickets.

The premier confirmed that people who live in red zones cannot go to restaurants in orange zones, but business owners will not be required to verify their address.

The work of police officers wont be easy in the weeks to come so I want to thank them for applying the public health rules and mostly, for protecting us, Legault said. We cannot accept that a majority of people pay for the negligence of the minority.

Ontario premier condemns disappointing anti-mask group

At a press conference on Wednesday, Ontario Premier Doug Ford was asked by a journalists from the Niagara region to respond to reports of the anti-mask group Hugs over Masks using the premiers name and phone number to obstruct contact tracing work.

Ford responded by saying this kind of group is so disappointing and added that 99 per cent of the population doesnt believe in what youre doing.

Have you ever walked through an ICU unit seeing someone struggling for their life on a ventilator and having their loved ones outside in the hospital, that they cant even see their loved ones? Ford said. Have you ever been to a long-term care facility when people are struggling and the PSWs are out there working their backs off, putting their lives ahead of their own family and putting their community first?

Story continues

You guys want to go out there and act like a bunch of yahoos, thats being polite... Guys give your heads a shake, were all in this together.

Dr. David Williams, Ontarios chief medical officer of health, echoed Fords disappointment, reinforcing that it is critically important that all Ontarians follow the public health rules in place

Its not that complex, you just have to do what youre supposed to do and do it well, Dr. Williams said. Everyone needs to stay focused on the task at hand.

We arent rolling back today

The premier shot down the suggestion that parts of Ontario may move back to Stage 2 or restaurants will be ordered following discussions on Wednesday.

We arent rolling back today, Ford said. Im not saying its never going to happen, but today thats not a conversation thats going to happen in cabinet.

Dr. Williams also said provincial health officials are not planning on closing any school as was previously done earlier in the year, despite the rising daily case numbers.

Ontario projected to see more than 1,000 cases a day in the the first half of October

Government of Ontario

New modelling data from the Ontario government is forecasting that the province could soon see more than 1,000 COVID-19 cases a day.

If things grow as were anticipating we will see a dramatic increase in the number of cases, with cases now doubling every 10 to 12 days, and likely over 1,000 cases within the first half of October a day, which is a remarkably high surge, Adalsteinn Brown, the dean of the Dalla Lana School of Public Health at the University of Toronto said on Wednesday.

Brown stressed that Ontarians are still able to change the trajectory of COVID-19 by adhering to the public health measures.

Theres the measures and then theres the adherence to the measures, he said.

Every time you see a group of people on the street, standing very close together, walking into a bar without masks on. Every time you see a group of people greeting each other without their masks on and standing much closer than the recommended distance, thats where this spread starts to happen.

Government of Ontario

Ontarios health experts identified that COVID-19 patients in ICU must remain under 150 to maintain the provinces healthcare system, including the ability to respond to needs like primary care, home care, mental health and addictions services, and scheduled surgeries.

If we stay below that first line of 150 then our hospitals and in particular ICUs can operate fairly close to normal, Matthew Anderson, president and CEO of Ontario Health explained.

When the province reached approximately 350 COVID-19 patients in ICU, Anderson said changes will have to be made to other healthcare services, described in the modelling documents as impossible to support non-COVID-19 care needs.

Brown stressed that there is a delay in the development of symptoms, from the time of exposure, and there is another delay before symptoms become severe enough to require hospitalization.

Government of Ontario

The dean of the Dalla Lana School of Public Health at the University of Toronto also indicated that the COVID-19 situation in other jurisdictions provides a firm foundation for understanding how the virus will play out in Ontario.

Similar to Australia and Michigan, Ontario is also seeing the overall shape of a first and second wave of COVID-19.

Government of Ontario

The coronavirus has impacted all age groups and Brown stressed that young people are able to transmit the disease, even though the death rate for young people with COVID-19 is relatively low.

This is where it becomes particularly troublesome or threatening for our health systems as it rises in these older age groups, he said. Although we see a large amount of infection among younger people right now, this is likely starting to spill over into older age groups, which is where we see the most tragic and more challenging consequences for health and for the healthcare system.

Dr. David Williams, Ontarios chief medical officer of health, pleaded to the public to follow the public health measures in place, confirming provincial health authorities are continually looking at what other recommendations can be made to deal with provincial and regional issues.

People have to take these recommendations seriously, Dr. Williams said. We can make them but if you close down institutions people just go around it, people have to stay to the task.

We can bring these measures in, the key is...everybody has to do their part.

With the latest measures put in place on Sept. 19 and Sept. 25, reducing social gathering limits, shortening operation hours at restaurants and bars, and closing strips clubs, the impacts of those restrictions should be seen in the coming days and weeks.
A 24-year-old white man was arrested Tuesday and faces ethnic intimidation charges in connection with a hate crime targeting a Black suburban Detroit family who displayed a Black Lives Matter sign in their front window, police said.

Warren Police Commissioner William Dwyer announced the arrest at a news conference Wednesday, where he was joined by Mayor James Fouts and by Eddie and Candace Hall, who have been targeted in three incidents this month. Warren is north of Detroit.

The Halls, who are Army veterans, had gunshots fired into their home, their vehicles' tires slashed, a rock thrown through their front window and racist threats written on their vehicles. A rock was thrown through the sign in their front window  a closed fist with the words "Black Lives Matter" written in white against a black background. The suspect was captured on a neighbor's home surveillance video, authorities said.

The first incident occurred Sept. 7.

Image: Hate crime in Michigan (David Guralnick / Detroit News via AP file)

Dwyer said the suspect confessed to the crimes against the Hall family and to writing the word "pedophile" several times in large letters at a property a few blocks from their home. He will face separate charges in that incident, Dwyer said.

The suspect, whose name was not disclosed, faces nine charges  eight felonies and a misdemeanor. They include three counts of ethnic intimidation. He is scheduled to be arraigned Thursday morning. A $3,000 reward was offered in the case Sept. 11.

The suspect was identified after detectives combed the area for witnesses, handed out reward flyers, maintained physical surveillance with officers in plainclothes and in marked units, and worked with the FBI to set up a pole camera in the area, Dwyer said.

A search of his home recovered the clothes, mask and shoes worn during the crimes, Dwyer said, adding that he admitted to using a gun that he had found in his garage.

"It is our hope to quickly bring closure, which I believe we have, to this matter for the victims, the Halls, and let everyone know that hate crimes such as these will not be tolerated in the city of Warren," Dwyer said.

Story continues

The Halls said they will not remove the Black Lives Matter sign.

Download the NBC News app for breaking news and politics

The mayor said the situation has been a nightmare for the Halls and everyone else in the community, including Warren police.

"In this city, we do not tolerate any type of crime, but particularly racist terrorism," Fouts said. "And make no mistake about it, this was a racist terrorist."

At a news conference Sept. 11, Eddie Hall said he had never had any problems with anyone or experienced any hostility in Warren, the city his family has called home for six years.

He said that his teenage daughter and son were terrified and that the family felt violated.

"My only safety place is at home. When I get done with work, I go home to relax, sit by my wife, talk with my kids and have family time," he said. "I am so upset to where there's nothing I can do to comfort my family because all of this is going on."

He said his daughter didn't even want to be in the house.

Candace Hall said at the Sept. 11 news conference that the family had already forgiven the suspect and simply wanted him to stop terrorizing them and to seek help.

"We pray for you," Eddie Hall said then.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 17:59:28|Editor: huaxia

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JAKARTA, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- The number of investors at the Indonesian capital market rose to 3.14 million people till August 2020, an increase of 23.5 percent compared to 2.4 million people at the end of 2019 despite negative sentiment due to the COVID-19 impacts, an authority said.

"Although big foreign investors left, there are still strong domestic investors," Chairman of the Financial Service Authority's Board of Commissioners Wimboh Santoso told a working meeting with the House of Representatives on Thursday.

Santoso said the condition would create optimism among investors and regulators in efforts to reawaken the Indonesian capital market.

He pointed out that the interest of people in seeking funds at the capital market is still high as indicated by the collection of public funds till September 2020 totaling 85.9 trillion rupiahs (some 5.7 billion U.S. dollars) with 134 public offerings.

However, the total collection of the public funds was lower than 166.9 trillion rupiahs (about 11.2 billion U.S. dollars) in the same period last year, he noted, adding that since last week, the stock market and the securities market have been under pressure as the domestic economy is still highly depressed. Enditem
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San Francisco, 1 Oct 2020: The Report Enteral Feeding Formulas Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis By Product (Standard Formula, Disease-specific Formula), By Flow Type, By Stage, By Indication, By End User, And Segment Forecasts, 2020 - 2027

The global enteral feeding formulas market size is expected to reach USD 8.72 billion by 2027, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc., expanding at a CAGR of 6.0% from 2020 to 2027. Increasing prevalence of diseases such as diabetes, cancer, dementia, multiple sclerosis, chronic liver disease and COPD is expected to boost the demand for enteral products that aid patients having trouble in oral intake. As per a study published by Cancer Research U.K., approximately 17.0 million new cancer cases were reported in 2018 across the globe. Incidence of cancer is projected to increase by 62% between 2018 and 2040.

In addition, growing deficiency of macro and micro nutrients among the patients in hospitals during pre and post-surgery drives the demand for enteral feeding formulas. Furthermore, increasing product offerings aimed at specific indications are delivering targeted nutritional needs, which is a key driver of this market. These enteral tube feeds usually contain polysaccharides and proteins for patients capable of digesting and absorbing nutrients without any difficulty. Availability of wide varieties of enteral formulas, along with increased demand for low-cost nutrient formulations among consumers, is boosting the market growth. Moreover, favorable reimbursement scenario supports high adoption of tube feeds among hospital patients as the enteral nutrition is usually covered under Medicare claims.

Moreover, the market is consolidated with presence of few leading players, including Nestle Health Science, Abbott, and Danone. These players are constantly investing in the R&D activities for development of enhanced products that cater to the niche therapeutic areas having high growth potential in the industry in order to gain a competitive edge. Market entry has proved to be challenging for new entrants as the industry is dominated by few major MNCs with high brand recognitions.

Access Research Report of Enteral Feeding Formulas Market @ https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/enteral-feeding-formulas-market

Enteral Feeding Formulas Market Report Highlights

Standard formula emerged as the leading product segment in 2019 with a revenue share of 54.3% in the global market

By flow type, intermittent feeding flow accounted for the largest revenue share in 2019. Continuous feeding flow is projected to expand at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period

The adults stage segment accounted for the largest revenue share in 2019 owing to growing demand for such nutrition formulations in the adult population

Others emerged as the leading indication segment in 2019 with a revenue share of 41.9% in the global market

Home care emerged as the leading end user segment in 2019 and is expected to witness significant growth over the forecast period

North America accounted for the largest share in 2019 due to growing preference for home-based enteral therapy in the region.

Browse more reports of this category by Grand View Research at: https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry/pharmaceuticals

Grand View Research has segmented the global enteral feeding formulas market on the basis of product, flow type, stage, indication, end user, and region:

Enteral Feeding Formulas Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2027)

Standard Formula

Disease-specific Formula

Enteral Feeding Formulas Flow Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2027)

Intermittent Feeding Flow

Continuous Feeding Flow

Enteral Feeding Formulas Stage Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2027)

Adults

Pediatrics

Enteral Feeding Formulas Indication Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2027)

Alzheimers

Nutrition Deficiency

Cancer Care

Diabetes

Chronic Kidney Diseases

Orphan Diseases

Dysphagia

Pain Management

Malabsorption/GI Disorder/Diarrhea

Others

Enteral Feeding Formulas End-user Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2027)

Hospitals Cardiology Neurology Critical Care (ICU) Oncology Others

Home Care

Enteral Feeding Formulas Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2027)

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Latin America

Middle East & Africa

List of Key Players of Enteral Feeding Formulas Market:

Danone (Nutricia)

Nestle Health Science

Abbott Nutrition

Primus Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Mead Johnson & Company, LLC

Fresenius Kabi AG

Meiji Holdings Co., Ltd.

Victus

Access Press Release of Enteral Feeding Formulas Market @ https://www.grandviewresearch.com/press-release/global-enteral-feeding-formulas-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
Donald Trump supporters on Wednesday night chanted "lock her up" as the president launched a fresh attack on congresswoman Ilhan Omar at a campaign rally in Minnesota.

During his re-election campaign, the president has repeatedly used Ms Omar, who is of Somalian heritage, as a lightning rod to rile up his base ahead of November's election.

Mr Trump, 74, has also claimed that his Democratic challenger Joe Biden, 77, plans to turn the state - which has a large Somali population - into a "refugee camp" if he wins the race for the White House.

"Another massive issue for Minnesota is the election of Joe Bidens plan to inundate your state with a historic flood of refugees," Mr Trump told supporters at Duluth International Airport. "Congratulations, Minnesota. Congratulations..."

Turning his focus to Ms Omar, who represents Minnesota's 5th congressional district, the president said: "What is going on with Omar? Ive been reading these reports for two years about how corrupt and crooked she is. Lets get with it. Lets get with it," he added to chants of "lock her up".

The president has repeatedly cited false claims that Ms Omar, 37, has been actively involved in a ballot harvesting scheme in the city of Minneapolis.

Ever since Ms Omar was elected to office in 2019, she has been a repeated target of dog whistle racism by the president, who last week suggested the lawmaker was not a true US citizen because of her roots.

Addressing thousands of tightly packed together supporters at a separate campaign rally in Pittsburhg last month, Mr Trump told Ms Omar: How is your country doing?

The president been responding to Ms Omar's critical comments about his handling of the coronavirus, which has claimed some 207,000 US lives. He suggested Ms Omar had been been telling American's "how to run our country".

"Firstly, this is my country & I am a member of the House that impeached you," Ms Omar repsponded on Twitter. "Secondly, I fled civil war when I was 8. An 8-year-old doesnt run a country even though you run our country like one."

Shortly after Wednesday night's rally, the Trump administration proposed further slashing the number of refugees the United States accepts to a new record low in the coming year.

In a notice sent to Congress, the administration said it intended to admit a maximum of 15,000 refugees in fiscal year 2021. That's 3,000 fewer than the 18,000 ceiling the administration had set for fiscal year 2020, which expired at midnight Wednesday.

The proposal will now be reviewed by Congress, where there are strong objections to the cuts, but lawmakers will be largely powerless to force changes.
India rejects Pak criticism of court ruling in Babri Masjid demolition case

India

pti-Madhuri Adnal

New Delhi, Oct 01: India on Thursday strongly rejected Pakistan's criticism of the acquittal of all the 32 accused in the Babri Masjid demolition case, saying it may be difficult for the neighbouring country, having a "coercive apparatus", to understand the ethos of democracy and rule of law.

Pakistan Foreign Office on Wednesday condemned the acquittal of the accused in the case and urged the Indian government to ensure safety, security and protection of the minorities, particularly the Muslims and their places of worship.

Babri demolition verdict: All you need to know about the key figures

"India is a mature democracy where the government and people abide by the verdicts of the court and show respect for the rule of law," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said at an online media briefing while replying to a question on Pakistan's reaction to the ruling.

"It may be difficult for a system with a coercive apparatus where people and the courts can be silenced at will of the establishment to understand such a democratic ethos," he added.

All the 32 accused in the Babri mosque demolition case, including BJP veterans L K Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi, were on Wednesday acquitted by a special CBI court in Lucknow which said there was no conclusive proof against them.
Attacks on police, ambulance crews, prison workers, bus drivers and other public officers would be treated with a higher level of seriousness under recommendations from the Queensland Sentencing Advisory Council.

QSAC handed down its final report containing 13 recommendations on Thursday after the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Yvette DAth requested a review in December last year.

Queensland Sentencing Advisory Council chair John Robertson hands down 13 recommendations. Credit:Jocelyn Garcia

The refined section 340 would include a new aggravating factor that would apply to assaults on frontline and emergency workers and expand to others vulnerable in their occupation, including public transport workers, taxi drivers, ride-share drivers and health workers and volunteers.

"What the council has done through its 13 recommendations is distinguish the increased seriousness of an assault on those whose jobs are designed to protect the community and respond to emergencies, and acknowledge for all other workers the right to be able to do their job safely knowing they, too, are recognised under the law," QSAC chair John Robertson said.
Job Title: HIV Clinical Manager

Organization: WEI/Bantwana



Duty Station:

Kampala, Uganda

Reports to: Case Management Advisor

About US:

Since 1951, World

Education, Inc. (WEI) has been working to improve the lives of the poor through

education and social and economic development programs. The Bantwana Initiative

of World Education, Inc. is a recognized leader in delivering integrated

comprehensive interventions to improve HIV outcomes and the quality of life for

orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) and families affected by HIV and poverty.

Rooted at the grassroots level, WEI/Bantwana builds the capacity of

communities, civil society and governments to coordinate and deliver integrated

comprehensive services for vulnerable children and families while strengthening

structures and service delivery across the HIV continuum of care.

About USAID ICYD Project:

The USAID Integrated

Child and Youth Development Activity (USAID ICYD Activity) aims to improve

learning outcomes, advance HIV epidemic control in Uganda, and ensure that

children and youth have the opportunity to lead resilient, healthy and

productive lives. The USAID ICYD Activity will deliver critical HIV/GBV/violence

prevention and response services to children and youth and their families in

communities, clinics, and schools. Within USAIDs Journey to Self-Reliance

Framework, USAID ICYD Activity will build the operational and technical

capacity of four Ugandan Primary Local Partner (PLP) organizations to become

direct recipients of USG funding within two years while strengthening

government capacity to deliver core services to children within an integrated

referral network and case management system. WEI/Bantwana is a leader in OVC

programming and organizational capacity development in high HIV prevalence

countries in southern and eastern Africa.

Job Summary: The HIV Clinical Manager supports

strengthening of HIV Case Management implementation, with a focus on health

facility/community linkage aspects across the four zones and 38 districts of

USAID ICYD Activity. The role is critical in collaboration, coordination and

building relationships with clinical partners and service providers to improve

bi-directional referrals and integrated service delivery across the HIV cascade

including HIV/GBV/VAC reduction and response services including uptake in ART,

and improved adherence and viral load suppression for OVC and AGYW. The Manager

will bring clinical and community expertise supporting ART, adherence, viral

load suppression and resilience for OVC and AGYW. This position will have the

following responsibilities:

Key Duties and Responsibilities:



Oversee

technical design, training, mentorship of USAID ICYD Activity technical team

and PLPs to close critical gaps across the HIV cascade to bolster Index

Testing, ART linkage, retention, adherence, VLM, VLS outcomes for HEI, C/ALHIV

and families living with HIV



Support

and strengthen PLP capacity to build strong, functional partnership with clinic

partners across the 4 USAID ICYD Activity zones



Support

training and mentorship of USAID ICYD Activity technical teams and PLP partners

on effective service delivery to children, adolescents and caregivers living

with HIV (C/ALHIV) and other key populations



Develop

and/or recommend training materials, conduct supportive supervision and

administer job aids for community structures delivering service and case

management support to C/ALHIV families



Support

scale up of Caregivers engagement model layered on Peer Support Groups for

ALHIV



Support

PLPs to build strong relationships with District Health Officers and other

relevant stakeholders



Participate

in national level meetings with MOH and other relevant ministries related to

policy and programming for C/ALHIV to keep USAID ICYD Activity abreast of

policy shifts related to HIV and feed lessons learned into policy discussions



Support

partners to troubleshoot referral and coordination bottlenecks between clinics

and communities



Review

and address performance gaps related to HIV outcomes for C/ALHIV with USAID

ICYD Activity technical teams and PLPs



Support

quarterly and annual report writing and other strategic documentation

Qualifications, Skills and Experience:



The

ideal candidate must hold a Degree in: health, social work and social

administration



At least

three years of experience working with children/adolescents living with HIV in

clinic and community settings



Experience

with bi-directional clinical referrals/HIV service provider linkages for

vulnerable populations



Understanding

of MOH HIV policies and programming for HEI/C/ALHIV



Demonstrated

experience and familiarity analyzing and applying data for decision making



Excellent

writing skills



Good

communication skills and ability to communicate in the local and national

languages.



Computer

skills with expertise in PowerPoint, Word, Excel.

How to Apply:

All applicants

should submit a cover letter, updated CV, and three references to: BantwanaICYD@ug.worlded.org

with the position title you are applying for in the subject line.

NB:

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until positions are filled.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Deadline: 2nd October 2020 by 2:00pm

For more of the

latest jobs, please visit https://www.theugandanjobline.com or find us on our facebook page https://www.facebook.com/UgandanJobline






The Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) in the Western Region has for the past one month been rationing water in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Area due to the growing demand in supply and limited rainfall in the region the year.



The situation had resulted in a low inflow of raw water into river bodies, particularly the Pra River, where the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) draws water for processing and distribution to the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis and the Wassa East District.



Following the occurrence, the Ghana Water Companys intake points at Daboase and Bussum-Do in the Wassa East District have low water levels, making it difficult to extract enough water from them for treatment thereby, leading to the erratic water supply.



Speaking in an interview with the Ghana News Agency, the Western Regional Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the GWCL, Nana Yaw Barima Barnie indicated that the companys dam site at the Inchaban Head Works in the Shama District has equally been affected by the low inflows of water.



The major challenge is that we are having a limited flow of water and we were expecting rains even in September to October, but that did not happen. Limited rains now is resulting in low inflows into our basin, he explained.



According to him, the only solution available to the Company was for customers to conserve water while they worked to ensure that they met the increasing demands and called on the public to store water and use it judiciously.



He said the situation had forced his outfit to start early rationing of water from September instead of the usual December or early January when such controlled distribution was done.



He noted that production levels were currently between three million gallons and 5.6 million gallons daily which he considered inadequate to meet the demands of the public.



Nana Barnie explained that if there were limited inflows, it would affect their production and that in the recent past, the Inchaban intake had been recording about 979,000 gallons instead of two million gallons, which had characterised the shortfall.



The PRO further explained that since its intake points along the Pra River were just water basins, his outfit only collected raw water for treatment and the rest flowed freely into the sea as the river was not dammed.



He pointed out that damming the Pra River would have been the ideal situation, but it would come with a huge cost and social impacts, which could cause the extinction of some aquatic species, huge losses to forests, the disappearance of birds in floodplains, erosion of deltas, wetlands, and farmlands, and many other irreversible impacts that have to be considered when planning to dam a river.

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
Bangladesh: Call to protect rivers from encroachment, pollution

October 01,2020 | Source: Dhaka Tribune

Green Planet, a non-profit organization, organized a meeting at the Bangabandhu Hall of Chittagong Press Club on Sunday, marking World Rivers Day. Addressing the meeting as chief guest, eminent zoologist Dr Anisuzzaman said the rivers of the country have to be protected from pollution and encroachment to save mankind and biodiversity. The zoologist also urged people living upstream and downstream of rivers to raise their voice against the pollution.



Speaking as the keynote speaker, Prof Dr Manzoorul Kibria also dwelt on river pollution and biodiversity. Bangladesh is literally a riparian country. Our existence is intertwined with that of rivers. So, we should be vocal against river pollution and encroachment, said Dr Kibria. Noted Karnaphuli researcher, Prof Dr Edris Ali, said: Toxic waste released from 300 mills and factories of 17 industrial zones of Chittagong is being dumped into the Karnaphuli and Halda rivers every day. It will take a heavy toll on mankind and biodiversity. Presiding over the meeting, Mizanur Rahman, convener of Green Planet, thanked the government for taking the decision to declare Halda the Bangabandhu Fisheries Heritage.
Winnipeg police have made one arrest and are seeking a second suspect in the homicide of a man who had recently been released from prison after serving time for a 2011 gang-related kidnapping.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 1/10/2020 (478 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Winnipeg police have made one arrest and are seeking a second suspect in the homicide of a man who had recently been released from prison after serving time for a 2011 gang-related kidnapping.

Cody Alexander Sleigh, 31, was shot in the early hours of July 21 on the 1000 block of Main Street near the Osborne Community Correctional Centre, which houses offenders who have been released under various conditions. He died in hospital two days later.

Kleon Cassidy Pop, 32, was arrested Sept. 7 in Williams Lake, B.C., and transported to Winnipeg. He has been charged with first-degree murder.

A Canada-wide arrest warrant for first-degree murder has been issued for 19-year-old Dyllan Petrin, who is described as 5-5, with a medium build, short dark hair, a tattoo on his right forearm and a tattoo of Chinese characters on the left side of his neck. Petrin is believed to be in the south-central area of B.C.

Sleigh, originally from B.C., was released from Saskatchewan Penitentiary in April. He was on parole, following a sentence of more than seven years for his role in a gang-linked 2011 kidnapping and assault in Vancouver.

On Thursday, Winnipeg Police Service spokesman Const. Rob Carver wouldnt confirm if either suspect had gang links, instead saying there were "gang undertones" to the July slaying.

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Petrin was arrested and charged in July 2019 in connection to a kidnapping and assault in Surrey, B.C. He was released in February under conditions including wearing an electronic monitoring ankle bracelet. He illegally removed the bracelet May 28 and is still at large, police said.

Carver wouldnt confirm whether Sleigh was staying at the Osborne Community Correctional Centre at the time of his death.

While city police said both suspects have connections to B.C., Carver wouldnt disclose what led investigators to believe Petrin is currently in the West Coast province.

"I cant give you the precursor whereabouts of the two individuals prior to the murder. I can tell you that one obviously was in B.C., where he was arrested, and we believe now that Petrin is in B.C.," he said.

malak.abas@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: malakabas_
Cleared supermarket shelves, bans on visiting the pub and the construction of giant emergency hospitals may feel like something out of a horror movie.

But scientists have found Covid-19 really is the stuff of nightmares.

More than half of 800 volunteers quizzed about their dreams revealed they endured distressing images linked to the pandemic.

And a quarter of participants  who were from Finland  told how they now suffer more frequent bad dreams than before the 'apocalyptic ambience' of lockdown set in.

Images causing sufferers to toss and turn included accidentally giving someone a hug, being stuck in a crowd, enjoying a party and catching the virus itself.

But scientists believe the nightmares may teach us how to behave in the pandemic, saying that dreaming helps us to 'consolidate changing our behaviour'.

A quarter of people suffered more frequent bad dreams during lockdown, a paper has claimed. Dreams included accidentally giving someone a hug. (Stock)

'We are all sharing the same vivid dreams', say experts Millions of people around the world have been suffering the same vivid dreams since the coronavirus pandemic struck, experts have said. The horrors of Covid-19, and the frightening ways it has upended daily life, is infecting dreams and exposing feelings of fear, isolation and grief, according to a range of psychologists. 'As far as I know, no one has dream samples from the flu pandemic of 1918 - and that would probably be the most comparable thing,' Harvard University professor Deidre Barrett told the Associated Press on Tuesday. 'Now we just all have our smartphones by our bed, so you can just reach over and speak it or type it down. Recording our dreams has never been easier.' Barrett, who previously studied the dreams of 9/11 survivors and British prisoners of war in World War II, has already collected 6,000 dream samples from about 2,400 people during the current coronavirus crisis. According to Barrett, many people dream they are sick with Covid-19 or are overcome by what seem to be stand-ins for the virus: swarms of bugs, slithering worms, witches, grasshoppers with fangs. Meanwhile, others dream of losing control. In one such dream, the dreamer was held down by infected people who coughed on her. In another, the dreamer came across bands of people shooting at random strangers. Advertisement

Scientists looked for 'dream clusters' by asking the participants to note down their dreams each morning between March 28 and April 15.

In order to find any pattern, their words were then fed into an algorithm which scanned for repeated word-associations, or clusters, and word-pairs.

The study also used sleep and stress data from 3,200 further participants, as well as the 800 whose dreams were examined, to establish whether bad dreams were happening more frequently.

The researchers, from the University of Helsinki, found 20 nightmare clusters, with 55 per cent linked to the pandemic.

In one cluster, labelled 'disregard of distancing', it included the word-pairs of: mistake-hug, hug-handshake, handshake-restriction, handshake-distancing, distancing-disregard, distancing-crowd, crowd-restriction and crowd-party.

Study lead author Dr Anu-Katriina Pesonen said they were 'thrilled' to observe repeating dream content associations that 'reflected the apocalyptic ambience of Covid-19 lockdown'.

'The results allowed us to speculate that dreaming in extreme circumstances reveal shared visual imagery and memory traces, and in this way, dreams can indicate some form of shared mindscape across individuals,' she said.

'The idea of a shared imagery reflected in dreams is intriguing.'

She added: 'People were dreaming about not being able to touch, or about making mistakes in distancing  this suggests its about learning. Dreaming helps us to consolidate changing our behaviour.'

The study, published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology, used participants in Finland, which had a national lockdown from March 28 to April 15  the start and end date used in the research.

It recorded as many as 211 new cases of coronavirus on April 6 at the height of the pandemic, and to date has seen 345 deaths from the virus.

Britain and the US, however, suffered a far greater impact from the coronavirus, with both country's yet to formally lift their lockdown restrictions.

The UK has recorded 446,000 cases of the virus to date, and as many as 42,072 deaths.

It is currently experiencing a second spike in infections. But experts say this should not be compared to the peak in late March and April because the testing system was not up-and-running.

The US is experiencing one of the worst outbreaks of coronavirus in the world, with 7.22million cases and 206,000 deaths due to the virus recorded to date. Yesterday the country identified a further 36,847 cases of the virus.

Daily Mail columnist Susanna Reid last week revealed how the coronavirus pandemic gave her 'crippling nightmares' where she would wake up 'screaming and crying'.

The Good Morning Britain host, 49, said her anxiety struggles started as the first cases in the UK were identified in March, and how she has found the whole experience 'very frightening'.

During an interview with The Telegraphs Stella Magazine, Susanna explained: 'It was an anxious time for everybody, but those early days were very frightening.

'I started to have really vivid, terrifying nightmares where I would wake up screaming and crying even though I couldnt quite remember what the nightmares were.'
A member of an Indigenous group fights a forest fire in Brazil, which has seen an increase in wildfires over last year

The number of forest fires in Brazil's Amazon increased sharply in September, figures released Thursday show, fueling growing criticism of President Jair Bolsonaro's environmental policies.

The National Institute of Space Research (INPE) said satellite imagery showed an increase of 61 percent in the number of fires in September, compared to the same period last year.

Satellites used by the institute detected 32,017 outbreaks last month in the Amazon, compared to 19,925 in the same month in 2019.

In the first nine months of the year, the total number of fires increased by 14 percent over the same period in 2019, the INPE said.

Despite the data from INPE, a world-renowned public body, Bolsonaro has continued to denounce a campaign of "disinformation" about the Pantanal and the Amazon.

On Wednesday, Bolsonaroan ally of US President Donald Trumplashed out at US Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden for "disastrous and unnecessary" comments on destruction of the rainforest.

Biden said during the first presidential debate that if elected in November, he would raise $20 billion to help Brazil to "stop tearing down" the Amazon, threatening "significant economic consequences" if it did not.

Bolsonaro backlash

Smoke rises from an illegally lit fire in the Amazon rainforest south of Novo Progresso in Brazil's Para State, in August 2020

Later, in a video address to a UN biodiversity summit, Bolsonaro said Brazil was "firm in its commitment to sustainable development and preserving our environmental wealth."

He accused "certain non-governmental organizations" of perpetrating "environmental crimes" to stain the country's image.

Most of the Amazon fires consist of agricultural burning on illegally deforested areas, even though the government banned all burning for four months from July.

Further south, in the Pantanalthe world's largest wetlandsthe number of fires have almost tripled to 8,106, making September 2020 the worst month since the INPE began compiling statistics on the fires in 1998.

"Brazil is in flames. From the Amazon to the Pantanal, the environmental heritage of all Brazilians is being reduced to ashes," Christiane Mazzetti of Greenpeace in a statement.

"The is a consequence of the policy of the Bolsonaro government, which despite the predictions of drought in the Pantanal, has not used the necessary means of fire protection," she said.

The situation in the Pantanal, straddling Brazil, Paraguay and Bolivia, has been exacerbated by the worst drought in half a century.

The fires have ravaged 23 percent of the Brazilian part of the Pantanal, acording to data collected by scientists at the Laboratory for the Application of Environmental Satellites (LASA).

An aerial view of a deforested area close to Sinop, in Brazil's Mato Grosso State in August 2020

Growing investor pressure

The wildfires that devastated the rainforest last year triggered an international outcry, forcing Bolsonaro onto the defensive. He ultimately deployed the army to the Amazon to fight the fires.

So far this year, despite an increase in fires, the deforestation rate is down by about five percent.

But Brazil is coming under increasing pressure from allies, trading partners, international investors and powerful voices in the business world over the scale of the deforestation.

In June, 29 global investment firms managing nearly $4 trillion in assets sent an open letter to Bolsonaro, urging him to change policies blamed for accelerating the destruction of the rainforest.

Environmental destruction by Brazilian agribusiness firms is also threatening a long-sought trade deal between the European Union and the Mercosur bloc, of which Brazil is a member.

Explore further Fires triple in Brazil's Pantanal wetlands in 2020

 2020 AFP
Washington: The group that oversees the US presidential election debates says it will take steps to bring order to the final two contests between President Donald Trump and Democratic nominee Joe Biden following widespread criticism of the first debate.

The chaotic 90-minute debate on Tuesday night (Wednesday AEST) was panned by many veteran observers as the worst presidential debate in US history. The event was dominated by Trump's constant interjections of both Biden and moderator Chris Wallace, and Biden's angry responses.

The Commission on Presidential Debates, a non-partisan group that has organised the events since 1988, said it would make as yet unspecified changes to the format to prevent further chaos.

"Last night's debate made clear that additional structure should be added to the format of the remaining debates to ensure a more orderly discussion of the issues," the group said in a statement, adding that it was "carefully considering the changes that it will adopt and will announce those measures shortly".
Indias top venture capital funds are going beyond just investing and working with startups. They are launching a series of community initiatives, mentorship programmes and more as the startup scene evolves, deals become more competitive, and firms with a local office seek to differentiate themselves.

Sequoia Capital, Accel Partners and Lightspeed India Partners, among Indias most influential VCs, are conducting training and mentorship sessions, selecting companies for specialised support, and launching podcasts and lectures on various areas that a new entrepreneur will need help with.

What the VCs are doing

Sequoia, which has invested in Oyo Rooms, Byjus and Gojek, among others, last week unveiled The Guild, a series of sessions for its portfolio founders, where more experienced founders and industry experts in company building have candid chats and Ask Me Anything (AMA) sessions with top business leaders from around the world.

While many startups are successful, only a few are able to achieve enduring success for decades. The Guild aims to bring founders together on a regular basis to share their experiences, learn from each other, hear from other world-class speakers, and hopefully make a small difference in their quest to build the worlds most enduring companies, said Shailendra Singh, Managing Director at Sequoia India, in a LinkedIn post.

Similarly, Accel, an investor in Flipkart, Swiggy and BookMyShow, among others, last month launched Seed To Scale, a learning platform for entrepreneurs. The initiative, according to its website, promises a series of highly curated blogs, podcasts and videos to help you accelerate your startup journey.

Unlike many other funds, Seed to Scale is also open to people outside the Accel portfolio and the industry at large

For the last two years, Lightspeed India has been conducting Extreme Entrepreneurs, an initiative that provides eight high-potential founding teams with exposure to global leaders, business model validation, as well as aspects of pressure-testing. It addresses specific issues, such as marketing or product management, to help new founders.

Leveraging experience

These initiatives stem from the experience that these firms have gathered in India over the years. Accel and Sequoia have been investing for over a decade in India, while Lightspeed has been investing from an India-dedicated fund for the last five years (it had also invested from its US fund for a few years before that)

These early-stage investors are now using their experiences  both good and bad  and a vast portfolio of well-heeled founders and business leaders to bring newer founders into the portfolio and differentiate themselves.

You cant give money to a quality young founder and be sure that everything will work out. Capital is not a differentiator anymore; you have to go beyond that, says a founder backed by some of the firms mentioned above.

According to a report from consulting firm Bain and Co., VCs in India started 2020 with $7 billion in dry powder  capital waiting to be invested. This is not even counting angel investors and the swathes of small funds or family offices from different countries that fund early-stage founders.

Brand building exercise

VCs also consider these as brand building initiatives, looking to portray themselves as more than just cheque-writers to founders and stakeholders in the ecosystem.

A Sequoia or an Accel wants to be regarded as an institution that can bring much more than money to a company, including networks, hiring tips and management guidance, said an experienced founder who works with younger startups, requesting anonymity.

The coronavirus pandemic, despite continuing unabated, has not stopped deal-making. And excitement, particularly in digital and internet-led sectors, continues.

Another founder backed by these investors said that as valuations in early-stage investing are rising once again, it is important for long-term, dedicated VCs to distinguish themselves from hedge funds or family offices, which may get active from time to time, or offer a founder a lucrative deal that a regular VC may not be able to match.

Sequoia, Accel and others, whose legacy goes back to Silicon Valley or China, also exercise their networks in these regions to speak to founders in their India-mentorship programmes, bringing in other investors from these regions, or founders and senior executives from companies such as Microsoft, Uber and Slack.

If a young founder is getting term sheets from 4-5 investors, he could get carried away and go to whoever offers the best price, or seems best on paper. The VCs want to convince these founders that they are the right investor. So, initiatives like this help, said a partner at an early-stage VC fund, requesting anonymity.
SWANTON VILLAGE  Swanton village officials say they will likely have the former Riviere Hotel demolished next year to prepare the site for fu
Credit: LukasPich/Shutterstock

Spiders have an unfortunate media presence. No number of studies emphasising their ecological value or the potential of their silks to inspire wonder materials can overcome the negative press. The more emotive and sensational the coverage, the more likely it is to travel.

Although the proportion of spider species capable of giving humans a bad bite is very small, and no known deaths have occurred in recent decades, we retain a fear. We tend to exaggerate the risk from spider bites, even in countries with no indigenous dangerous spiders, such as the UK. There is always the apocryphal arachnid lurking under the toilet seat, or panic over false widow spiders whose infestations have closed schools.

With the arrival of autumn comes lurid news stories of amorous house spiders "the size of your hand" invading homes to find somewhere warm and dry to mate and die. It happens every year, but the media's insistence on turning this small arachnid's breeding season into an annual spectacle could be doing more than selling papers. A new study from Italy suggests it could be stoking arachnophobia where it may otherwise not have existed.

House spiders 'the size of your hand' invading UK homes looking for love https://t.co/qDmkpDFZXI  The Independent (@Independent) September 4, 2020

A web of lies

Mediterranean recluse spiders have a (perhaps unwarranted) bad reputation in Italy. Credit: Antonio Serrano/Wikipedia

The researchers scoured the digital archives of Italian newspapers, looking for the use of "bite", "spider" and "sting" (not that spiders do sting, but don't let that spoil a good story) in stories published during the last ten years about four spider species thought of as dangerous: the yellow sac spider, the Mediterranean black widow, the Mediterranean recluse and the false wolf spider.

They found 314 media reports of spider encounters in Italy between 2010 and 2020the majority being Mediterranean black widows or recluses. The reach of each article was measured by the number of shares on social media, along with any errors such as species misidentification or incorrect medical advice. The team counted the use of certain words, such as "devil, "terror" or "panic", to rate how each story sensationalised the encounter.

They found that media reports of spider attacks have increased in recent years, especially for the Mediterranean recluse. The rise coincided with a single report of loxoscelism  the deep ulcerations and necrosis of skin resulting from a spider bitein Europe, and an Italian murder mystery novel in which the venom of the Mediterranean recluse is the murder weapon.

The spider species in the loxoscelism case was never definitively identified, but newspaper coverage of the Mediterranean recluse spiked nonetheless after the case was reported. Both the mysterious bite and the murder novel featured often in the increasing number of newspaper reports about these spiders. The press had found a compelling narrative to weave between a rare medical event and a well-timed work of fiction. Suddenly, recluse spiders weren't so reclusive.

Stories that shared more recent and startling encounters travelled further. This isn't surprising, the viral spread of content is greater if it provokes intense delight, fear or anxiety. But the emotional contagion, as the team put it, helps drive up the perceived risk from spider attack, creating unreasonable hostility towards arachnids.

Jumping spiders to the rescue

Spiders are often overlooked in conservation, despite controlling insect pests on farms and having important roles in food webs as both predators and prey. It won't help if their media profile is largely driven by overhyped stories about "devilish" attacks and life-threatening venom. The researchers go so far as to accuse some journalists of sensationalising their stories at the expense of blameless wildlife.

Spiders are easy targets for scaremongering, but there are ways to improve their reputation. After all, some lovable spiders are cherished in popular culture. I defy anyone to watch Charlotte's Web without sobbing.

Natural history documentaries seem to have seized on a candidate for improving the public image of spiders. If you see a cute spider feature on TV, it's almost always a jumping spider. Furry, not so long-legged and with a large pair of eyes, it's as if they're designed to dispel the idea that all spiders are sinister.

Incidentally, I'm a jumping spider, according to a BBC children's service quiz that reveals what kind of spider you are.

On the whole, spiders in films terrorise small American towns, but seldom trouble Italy. Nonetheless, Italian spiders suffering at the hands of hype enjoy some revenge in 2014's Arachnicide. A "truly joyous" spectacle of "bad Italian cinema", reads one review.

Explore further Recluse or not? Scientists use Twitter to tackle spider questions

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
At least 5,000 pets were found dead at a logistics facility in Central China.

The animals were found in cardboard or metal shipping boxes at the Dongxing Logistics station in Luohe city, in China's Henan province.

Among them were rabbits, cats, dogs and guinea pigs, who had been left without food and water for roughly a week.

The deaths were most likely the result of a miscommunication in the supply chain of China's mass-breeding industry.

At least 5,000 pets were found dead at a logistics facility in Central China

The animals were found in cardboard or metal shipping boxes at the Dongxing Logistics station in Luohe city, in China's Henan province

Only a couple hundred of the animals were found alive.

Sister Hua, the founder of animal rescue group Utopia, described the scene as a 'living hell'.

'The station was cluttered with express boxes with thousands of animals that had already died, and the entire place reeks of rotting bodies,' she told CBS News.

'It was obvious they died of suffocation, dehydration and starvation.'

She alongside 20 other volunteers rescued 200 rabbits and 50 dogs and cats from the scene, with those in critical condition taken to veterinary clinics.

Sister Hua, the founder of animal rescue group Utopia, described the scene as a 'living hell'

According to Hua, 'miscommunication inside the shipping company and the inconsistency of the implementation of shipping regulations directly led to the tragedy.'

Chinese law bans the shipping of live animals in normal packaging and Hua believes the animals could have been abandoned at the depot for days after a logistics company may have refused to sign off on the shipment.

She urged members of the public to adopt animals to avoid incidents like these, and called on the Chinese government to more strictly enforce laws surrounding the shipment of such animals.
Sacha Baron Cohen proved himself to be as wild as ever in the incredibly controversial trailer for the Borat 2 sequel.

The hilarious new teaser for the long-awaited trailer was released on Thursday, with risque depictions of the character impersonating Donald Trump, calling Harry Potter a 'sex offender' and trying to get his daughter an abortion.

The Kazakh character claims to have impregnated his offspring in the clip before later going to a gun shop and making some new friends, who claim the Democratic party are more dangerous than coronavirus.

Uh oh! Sacha Baron Cohen proved himself to be as wild as ever in the incredibly controversial trailer for the Borat 2 sequel

The sequel is titled Borat: Gift of Pornographic Monkey to Vice Premiere Mikhael Pence to Make Benefit Recently Diminished Nation of Kazakhstan.

In typically explosive fashion, the character is seen mingling among Americans in most shocking and extreme style as he touches down in the US.

With his daughter in tow, Borat heads to a rally with Vice President of the United States, Mike Pence, in attendance, where the character slips into a very realistic Trump costume much to the outrage of the fellow attendees.

Carrying his daughter over his arm as he storms through the rally, Borat dressed as U.S. President Donald Trump exclaims: 'I've brought the girl for you!' with Pence glaring on stage at the camera.

Oh no! The hilarious new teaser for the long-awaited trailer was released on Thursday, with risque depictions of the character impersonating Donald Trump, calling Harry Potter a sex offender and trying to get his daughter an abortion (pictured)

Controversial: In typically explosive fashion, the character is seen mingling among Americans in most shocking and extreme style as he touches down in the US

Elsewhere during the trailer, the character decides to get a disguise after he is too recognisable to the public and he goes to a costume shop.

Looking at the outfits on display, Borat asks if Harry Potter is a 'sex offender' after being shown the wizard's costume and he purchases a fat suit, where he says: 'I take this to be fat like American man.'

Another controversial part of the advert sees Borat's daughter purchase a blue cupcake with a plastic toy baby on it, no doubt used as a celebration for showers or births.

But after the character accidentally eats the figure, Borat rushes his daughter to a pastor in a medical room with an ultrasound device in the background.

Rally: With his daughter in tow, Borat heads to a rally with Vice President of the United States, Mike Pence, in attendance, where the character slips into a very realistic Trump costume much to the outrage of the fellow attendees

Costume: Carrying his daughter over his arm as he storms through the rally, Borat dressed as U.S. President Donald Trump exclaims: 'I've brought the girl for you!' with Pence glaring on stage at the camera

His daughter says: 'I have a baby inside me' to which Borat asks for an abortion and demands: 'Can you take it out?'

The pastor is left outraged as he retorts: 'No we cannot! That's not what we do here.'

With things taking an even more controversial turn when Borat says: 'I feel bad because I was the one who put the baby in her. Did you ever put one in your daughter?'

Disguise: Elsewhere during the trailer, the character decides to get a disguise after he is too recognisable to the public and he goes to a costume shop, where he asks if Harry Potter is a 'sex offender'

Fat suit: He purchases a fat suit, where he says: 'I take this to be fat like American man.'

More controversy: Another controversial part of the advert sees Borat's daughter purchase a blue cupcake with a plastic toy baby on it, which she inhales, they then take her to see an outraged pastor and ask for him to remove the baby as Borat 'put the baby in her'

Leaving the pastor even more stunned, he remarks: 'No I did not!'

The trailer also takes a more topical turn when Borat asks to quarantine with a complete stranger outside a shop at the height of the coronavirus lockdown crisis.

Wearing a thong at the man's home and dancing, Borat asks: 'What's more dangerous... this virus or democrats?' to which the person and his friend both reply: 'Democrats!'

Borat then tries to kill the coronavirus with a hammer on the wall, to which the man explains you 'can't see it' and instead encourages him to spray Covid with an anti-bac spray.

Quarantine! The trailer also takes a more topical turn when Borat asks to quarantine with a complete stranger outside a shop at the height of the coronavirus crisis

'Dangerous Democrats': Wearing a thong at the man's home and dancing, Borat asks: 'What's more dangerous... this virus or democrats?' to which the person and his friend both reply: 'Democrats!'

Prior to the trailer release, Sacha posed for an extremely risque poster for the upcoming Borat 2 movie, ahead of its release on October 23 on Amazon Prime.

In a nod to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, Sacha donned a face covering in place of the character's now-iconic, neon green mankini.

The highly-anticipated sequel to the actor's wildly successful 2006 comedy Borat, will premiere on Amazon after bosses bought the worldwide rights to the film and the new poster boasts the slogan: 'Wear mask. Save live'.

Like father, like daughter: In a different scene, Borat takes his daughter to get an evening gown where she mistakes the clear protection bag as a dress

There were first hints that a sequel was happening in August, when Cohen was spotted in his iconic Borat suit driving an old pickup truck.

Earlier this month, Collider reported the Borat sequel has already been filmed, and even screened for unspecified industry types, after the crew resumed production as soon as coronavirus restrictions were eased.

Deadline reports Sacha 'risked his life' while filming and had to wear a bulletproof vest on two different shooting days.

Ahem! Prior to the trailer release, Sacha posed for an extremely risque poster for the upcoming Borat 2 movie, ahead of its release on October 23 on Amazon Prime

Shocker! The green mankini worn by the character became a pop culture favourite and is often spotted being used as a fancy dress costume (pictured in 2006)

MailOnline has contacted the comedian's representatives and Amazon for comment.

While the title has yet to be confirmed with any official marketing materials, it does fall in line with the full title of the original film: Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan.

The name suggests that Pence will be a target, while former New York City mayor Rudy Giuliani will also make an appearance.

He's back! The highly-anticipated sequel to the actor's wildly successful 2006 comedy Borat, will premiere on Amazon after bosses bought the worldwide rights to the film and the new poster boasts the slogan: 'Wear mask. Save live' (pictured in 2006)

The title also insinuates that Pence has ties to Russia, calling him 'Mikhael Pence' instead of Mike Pence, and giving him the Russian title of Vice Premiere instead of Vice President.

The original 2006 film featured Cohen playing his Borat character, which he first debuted on his hit TV series Da Ali G Show.

Borat was a TV reporter from Kazakhstan, who was sent to America with his producer Azamat (Ken Davitan).

While Borat is sent to report on the American way of life, he quickly becomes obsessed with the old TV series Baywatch, as he begins a quest to find and marry star Pamela Anderson.

Return: The film became a cult classic after its release in 2006

The now-deleted Writer's Guild of America post also revealed that several different writers worked on the Borat sequel script.

The screenplay is credited to Sacha Baron Cohen, Anthony Hines, Dan Swimer, Peter Baynham, Erica Rivinoja, Dan Mazer, Jena Friedman, and Lee Kern with story by Sacha Baron Cohen, Anthony Hines, Dan Swimer, and Nina Pedrad.

Hines, Baynham and Mazer all got screenplay credit on the original Borat movie, with Cohen, Baynham, Hines and Todd Phillips getting story credit.

Swimer, Kern and Hines have worked with Cohen on his hit Showtime series This Is America, while Rivinoja wrote for South Park and worked on movies such as Girls Trip, Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs and Trolls.

Friedman had written for Late Night with David Letterman and The Conners, while also acting in films like Palm Springs, while Nina Pedrad has written on 30 Rock, New Girl and Will & Grace.

Sequel: There were first hints that a sequel was happening in August, when Cohen was spotted in his iconic Borat suit driving an old pickup truck (pictured in 2006 film still)

Larry Charles directed the first Borat movie, though it isn't clear if he directs the sequel.

In the 2006 film, that earned an Oscar nomination for best adapted screenplay, it follows the character Borat around the U.S. as he makes a 'documentary' about life there and attempts to marry Pamela Anderson.

At the time of release, Kazakhstan banned the film from being shown and the sales of DVD. They also threatened to sue the controversial actor.

Yet in 2012, Foreign Minister Yerzhan Kazykhanov thanked Sacha for increasing tourism to the country following the spoof film.

In 2018, during the midterm elections in the U.S., he reprised Borat in a social media post to encourage voting.

He wrote: 'I voted, Great Success' while holding someone else's identification card with an 'I've voted' sticker affixed to his suit.

Sacha also filmed a spoof campaign video supporting Donald Trump in an election special broadcast of 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!'

The skit saw the bumbling Kazakh journalist vowing to tamper with the electorate's midterm elections, declaring 'it's up to Kazakhstan to swing the election for Premier Trump' and knocking over a 'polling place' sign.

In one scene, having been invited into the home of a Trump supporter, he asks: 'Who are the fake news who say that [Trump] is not a racist?'

The man replies: 'In my opinion the fake news people say he is a racist and I don't believe he is, I don't see any evidence of that.'

Quite the character: The original 2006 film featured Cohen playing his Borat character, which he first debuted on his hit TV series Da Ali G Show

A confused Borat replies: 'But what is the problem being a racist? I am a racist, it is nice.' The man disagrees.

The actor was also seen in a disguise earlier this summer at a political event in Washington in June.

The rally's organiser Matt Marshall said he could tell it was Cohen through the 'obvious disguise' the performer was donning when he took to the stage to sing.

'Like a fake nose and chin,' he told NPR. 'And he starts playing and the first thought when you hear his voice is, "Dude, is this like a bad impression of Borat?"''

The appearance sparked speculation Cohen was filming the Showtime series Who Is America?, though Cohen said he was only going to do the one season of the variety show.

Many writers: The now-deleted Writer's Guild of America post also revealed that several different writers worked on the Borat sequel script

'It's like The Ali G Show in England,' he said, speaking with The Hollywood Reporter in 2018. 'I did one season. And the idea is not to make it a Seinfeld or a Saturday Night Live.'

Cohen told the outlet last year that he 'was upset by' Donald Trump getting elected president, spurring him to create the political satire.

'That anger and disappointment and revulsion, I was expressing it by sort of sending friends emails, you know, sharing articles,' he said.

'And in the end, I felt I was so angry, I felt I actually have to channel that into some characters who could expose some of those people. I wanted to sit with those people who were his friends.'

Sacha's film Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan was a huge success when it was released in 2006, raking in $261 million worldwide. The film also made 'mankinis' famous after Borat wore one at the beach.

He also picked up a Golden Globe Best Actor in a Motion Picture award for his comedy performance.

Banned: At the time of release of the firs Borat, Kazakhstan banned the film from being shown and the sales of DVD. They also threatened to sue the controversial actor (pictured in 2018)
Paddy McGuinness has laughed off his car crash in a 250k 1990 Lamborghini Diablo in June as a 'nice moment' for Top Gear.

Speaking exclusively to MailOnline alongside his co-hosts Freddie Flintoff and Chris Harris, the TV presenter, 47, claimed losing control of the supercar made the show's new season 'better'.

Seeing the funny side of the incident, he explained: 'I had an off-road incident in a Lamborghini this series, which was a first in three series I like to remind Fred of that.

Amusing: Paddy McGuinness laughed off his Lamborghini car crash (pictured) as 'a nice moment' that made new season of Top Gear 'better' in an exclusive interview with MailOnline

'But I think sometimes things happen in an episode and it kind of works out better, because I think seeing the Jaguar [that Freddie drives in the episode] do its 200 miles an hour and me and Chris looking at the monitor, I dont know, the film felt better for that.

'If that Lamborghini hadnt gone off the road and all three of us were on the track then I dont know what the dynamic would have been, I dont know what would have happened, but it [was] a really nice moment for the show.'

Freddie asked if Paddy meant he crashed 'on purpose for the film', to which his co-host joked that he had, and added: 'These selfless acts, I dont like to talk about it, but as Im being asked I will do.'

Despite making light of the situation, Paddy admitted he felt the need to call wife Christine 'instantly' as there were a lot of fans watching him shoot the segment who were filming on their phones, and he was concerned she would worry unnecessarily.

Friendly: Paddy joked 'I think sometimes things happen in an episode and it kind of works out better' (pictured with co-hosts Freddie Flintoff and Chris Harris)

Funny: Paddy said 'If that Lamborghini hadnt gone off the road and all three of us were on the track I dont know what the dynamic would have been... it [was] a nice moment for the show'

In the new season, Freddie, Chris and Paddy also try out a Wall Of Death at the Alexandra Palace in London, which is one of their most dangerous stunts yet.

Of putting their lives at risk for the show, Chris admitted: 'I wouldnt want to do more than one of those in a series if Im honest with you, just for my own well-being.

'There were quite a few scrapes and a good few hits that keep your spine awake, lets say. Its always going to be a bit rough and tumble, isnt it?

'If were not exposing ourselves to a bit of jeopardy and danger then were not doing our jobs. People want to see us getting into scrapes and having the odd knock.'

Tricky stunt: In the new season, Freddie, Chris and Paddy also try out a Wall Of Death at the Alexandra Palace in London, which is one of their most dangerous stunts yet

Positive: Of putting their lives at risk, Chris admitted: 'If were not exposing ourselves to a bit of jeopardy and danger then were not doing our jobs. People want to see us getting into scrapes'

Freddie, who has quickly become known for doing the most dangerous stunts on the show, went on: 'I did the bungee last series which was hard, I say that but you just fall dont you?

'But then the Wall Of Death was different, we drove into the Ally Pally and saw this structure which had been built which was unbelievable, it was convincing yourself that you could get a car up there and there was more skill involved, so that was up there.

'Driving the Jaguar 200 miles-an-hour, a 30-year-old supercar for me got the beans going as well.'

However, he claimed he doesn't tell his family about some of his more dangerous stunts until after they have been filmed as it's a 'worry they don't need.'

Candid: Freddie claimed he doesn't tell his family about some of his more dangerous stunts until after they have been filmed as it's a 'worry they don't need'

Honest: Freddie said, 'Its not because they wont back you or anything, its just the worry they dont need... you just tell them when you get home' (Paddy pictured)

Giving an example from the new season, he said: 'For me it was the Wall Of Death, the name says it all really. Whatre you doing today? Wall Of Death.

'Its not because they wont back you or anything, its just the worry they dont need. Theyre going about their lives and you just tell them when you get home.

'Its strange I think for the kids, because they see all their mates dads and that going to work in their suits and theyve got a 9-5, and they say "whatre you doing today dad?" And you go, "well you know just going to bungee off a dam in Switzerland, or Im going to drive through Nepal on roads".

'So you try and protect them a little bit from the worry, but when they watch it then everything is good.'

Changes: The new season of Top Gear finds Paddy, Freddie, and Chris grappling with new social distancing rules post-lockdown

Innovative: Despite this, the trio and the show's crew banded together to make sure they could continue filming safely, and even introduced a drive-in cinema style format

The new season of Top Gear finds Paddy, Freddie, and Chris grappling with new social distancing rules post-lockdown following the opening episode, which was filmed prior to the coronavirus crisis.

Despite this, the trio and the show's crew banded together to make sure they could continue filming safely, and even introduced a drive-in cinema style format so that audience members could still take part.

Chris admitted they were initially concerned: 'I think we were all a bit worried about what post-COVID filming meant, but actually the production team did such a good job of finding new solutions for the way we went about things that those worries disappeared immediately.

'It was like we were back filming how we normally would, we cant do three of us in one car together which I think is a shame, we do get our stronger material from doing that, but thats just the way it is.

Happy: Chris said they were initially concerned but the crew 'did such a good job of finding new solutions for the way we went about things that those worries disappeared immediately'

Great idea: Chris went on, 'As for the drive-in cinema thing we were a couple of minutes in and were thinking why didnt we do this two years ago?'

'Were blessed its a show thats one of the easier things to make television wise with the new social distancing rules.

'As for the drive-in cinema thing we were a couple of minutes in and were thinking why didnt we do this two years ago?'

Freddie concurred, as he admitted it gave them 'a lot of access' that they didn't have before: 'Obviously with the drive-in it gives you a chance to change it up, and it seems obvious really. Its Top Gear, so lets do a drive-in, and the scale it was to do it was amazing.

'Even with some of the films, the first day after lockdown we worked everyone was excited to get in because it was at Alton Towers. We could race cars around Old Trafford which I thought was amazing.

'So, bizarrely, obviously with lockdown and COVID its been terrible but it has also opened up a few opportunities for us.

'The big thing is we got a chance to stay in the UK a bit more and show off our own country which is beautiful, but we did manage to get the Cyprus trip in before it all started. Hopefully you wont see too much difference!'

Paddy, Freddie and Chris have quite the fun dynamic together on-screen, and the trio reassured fans that their amusing banter is still strong despite having to remain socially distanced whilst filming.

Of finding new ways to annoy each other, Paddy joked: 'We dont have to do much thinking to do that to be honest, we kinda do that regardless! But, its lovely now.

Pals: Paddy, Freddie and Chris have quite the fun dynamic together on-screen, and the trio reassured fans that their amusing banter is still strong despite being socially distanced

Banter: Of finding new ways to annoy each other, Paddy joked: 'We dont have to do much thinking to do that to be honest, we kinda do that regardless! But, its lovely now'

'We are three series in of us, and were working on stuff for series four now, and it now just feels really natural.

'You know when someone is having an off day and you can leave them alone for a bit, and you know when theyre fair game, and we have that sense amongst us now so we just go along with it.'

Chris added he felt they had a 'good mix' when it came to their playful banter on set, as he said: 'We do hammer each other but thats the whole point, isnt it?

'You want to hammer each other, but if someone is really in a pickle then of course we stand by them.

'But Ive also learned that distancing doesnt make a difference, I can annoy people from a distance, I can walk into a room and just by the look on my face annoy McGuinness and thats something Im very proud of.'

Having fun: Chris added that he felt they had a 'good mix' when it came to their playful banter, and said 'I can walk into a room and just by the look on my face annoy McGuinness'

Great chemistry: Of how well they work together, Freddie said on their first day of filming 'it didnt feel like we were just getting to know each other, we just hit the ground running'

Freddie admitted that they had a great working relationship from the get go, as he went on: 'I remember we did a practice day of filming on the first day, it was the first time we got together but it didnt feel like the first time wed worked together.

'It just seemed to happen, I dont know if that was just us, or good casting or whatever, but it didnt feel like we were just getting to know each other, we just hit the ground running.'

Going on to discuss how travel restrictions amid the global pandemic has meant they have to keep filming in the UK, Chris claimed: 'I think a break from getting on airplanes the whole time was quite welcome, for me and probably for the other two as well.

Enjoying it: Discussing how travel restrictions has meant they have to keep filming in the UK, Chris claimed: 'I think a break from getting on airplanes the whole time was quite welcome'

Delighted: 'The UK is littered with amazing locations, great roads, its actually refreshing to celebrate our own country for once,' Chris added

'The UK is littered with amazing locations, great roads, its actually refreshing to celebrate our own country for once.

'I think Top Gear has been slightly drawn into becoming a show that needs to outdo itself each series over the last five, ten years and it becomes quite difficult.

'When youve been to Ethiopia, Nepal, Peru and all of those incredible places... to keep going to evermore exotic and far-flung places is a bit of a stretch for everyone.

'So, I think the reset has been great. Ive really enjoyed filming in the UK so lets do some more of it.'

Top Gear returns to BBC One on Sunday October 4, at 8pm.
Ivanka Trump; Eric Trump

Eric Trump and Senior Advisor to the President Ivanka Trump arrive for the first presidential debate between U.S. President Donald Trump and Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden at the Health Education Campus of Case Western Reserve University on September 29, 2020 in Cleveland, Ohio. Pool/Getty Images

Although the coronavirus pandemic has killed more than 1 million people worldwide and over 206,000 in the United States  according to researchers at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore  not wearing a protective face mask continues to be a badge of honor for President Donald Trump and many other Republicans. Trump, in fact, criticized former Vice President Joe Biden during the presidential debate on Tuesday night, September 29 for wearing a mask too often. And according to Business Insider reporter Sinead Baker, masks were few and far between among members of Trump's family during the debate.

"Four of Trump's children  Ivanka, Donald Jr., Eric and Tiffany  sat in the front row and did not wear masks," Baker reports. "First lady Melania Trump was pictured wearing one while sitting with them. But Tyler Pager, a Bloomberg News political reporter at the event, said she removed her mask after she sat down."

According to Baker, Trump's family members were in violation of the debate's social distancing guidelines by not wearing masks throughout the event. Ivanka Trump and Donald Trump, Jr. were seen wearing masks while walking to their seats but removed them after sitting down.

"Guests were told to wear masks throughout the debate, held at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio," Baker explains. "NBC News reported that a Cleveland Clinic doctor tried to approach the Trump children to ask them to wear masks as they entered the venue, but that she ultimately couldn't get to them."

Baker also points out that at the debate, "The seats were set far apart to adhere to social distancing guidelines."

Story continues

Unlike Melania Trump, Biden's wife, Jill Biden was seen wearing a mask when she greeted her husband on stage after the debate.

The coronavirus pandemic was a prominent topic during the debate, and Biden slammed the president repeatedly for publicly downplaying the severity of the crisis.

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SPRINGFIELD  Last year Madison County recorded 434 collisions with deer, the second highest in the state behind Cook County with 472.

The Illinois Department of Transportation and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources are reminding residents to watch out for deer. With autumn comes the deer mating season, a time of increased activity at dawn and dusk from October through December.

One person died and 23 were hurt in Madison County deer collisions last year. Macoupin County had 260 collisions, with 12 people hurt. Jersey County jhad 122 collisions and seven people hurt. Calhoun County had 96 collisions and one person hurt. And Greene County had 47 collisions and five people hurt. For a county-by-county report on 2019 deer collisions, visit https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/my1fD/1/.

We are starting to begin our peak season for deer-vehicle crashes, said acting Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman. We ask all drivers to keep a watchful eye and remember the cardinal rule: dont veer for deer. While the urge to swerve is instinctual, it could cause you to lose control of your vehicle or drive into oncoming traffic, increasing the severity of a crash.

State officials suggest drivers be aware of their surroundings, especially in areas with deer crossing signs, and scan the sides of the road for eye shine  the reflection of headlights in their eyes. Drivers should slow down if they see a deer; they usually travel in groups and may stop in the middle of a road or double back while halfway across.

If a collision is inevitable, drivers should try to glance their vehicle off the deer and avoid swerving into opposite lanes of traffic. Last year Illinois recorded a total of 16,213 crashes  604 causing personal injuries and four causing deaths.

More than 40% of crashes involving deer in Illinois occurred in October, November and December last year. Rural environments were the site of more than 90% of all motor vehicle crashes involving deer, with more than 70% occurring at twilight or nighttime.

Deer populations are common in both rural and urban areas, which means deer-vehicle collisions can happen anywhere, said IDNR Director Colleen Callahan. And remember, if you do hit a deer, report the accident to local law enforcement or Conservation Police Officer. They can help control traffic, clear the roadway or in the event the animal must be euthanized.

For information on how to claim a deer involved in a crash, visit www.dnr.illinois.gov/hunting/deer/Pages/Claim-a-Road-Kill.aspx. To report possession of a deer killed in a deer-vehicle crash, fill out the form at http://dnr.illinois.gov/SalvageDeer/(S(2g2y5tunjelyrx45y2dzqd55))/SalvageInfo.aspx.
(Natural News) One of Joe Bidens staffers is coming under fire for suggesting that people who are Catholic, Jewish or Muslim should be disqualified from being Supreme Court justices on account of their intolerant views.

The controversial staffer, Nikitha Rai, is a deputy data director for the Biden campaign. She made these bigoted comments while discussing the religious views of Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett with Brookings Institute Senior Fellow Shadi Hamid on Twitter.

Hamid asked why it was news that Barrett had been a trustee at a Catholic school opposed to same-sex marriage and whose stance was that homosexual acts were at odds with scripture.

Isnt this the standard position for any orthodox Catholic? Hamid asked.

Rai answered, Unfortunately yes.

When Hamid pointed out that Jews and Orthodox Muslims also share this view, she replied: Id heavily prefer views like that not be elevated to SCOTUS, but unfortunately, our current culture is still relatively intolerant. It will be a while before those types of beliefs are so taboo that theyre disqualifiers.

When her comments started coming under fire, she cowardly locked her Twitter account. When she was asked for a comment from the Daily Caller News Foundation, she ignored it and then blocked them from contacting her. The Biden campaign has not commented on the remarks.

If she truly believes that Catholics and people of other religions cannot be impartial on the Supreme Court, then perhaps this logic should also be applied to the leader of our country? If so, her own boss, Joe Biden, is also not qualified given his Catholic faith; he is often said to be a devout Catholic  although that is debatable given his support for abortion.

Who exactly does Rai want to serve on the Supreme Court? If we disqualify all people who practice religions based on the Bible, it would eliminate not only Catholics, Muslims and Jews but also Christians and Mormons as well. The beliefs she is so concerned about here are in the holy books of many religions.

Liberals beloved Ruth Bader Ginsburg was Jewish, as are current justices Stephen Breyer and Elena Kagan. Sonia Sotomayor, Clarence Thomas, Brett Kavanaugh, Samuel Alito and Chief Justice John Roberts are all Catholic, while Neil Gorsuch is Episcopalian but was raised Catholic. Are all of these justices problematic for her as well?

Religion disqualifying people from the Supreme Court goes against the Constitution

Of course, the very idea of a persons religion making them unqualified for the Supreme Court  or any other office  goes against the Constitution itself. Article VI, Clause 3 states: no religious Test shall ever be required as a Qualification to any Office or public Trust under the United States. And in any case, Supreme Court justices must put aside all of their personal beliefs and make their decisions based on what the Constitution says.

The comments come as Barretts faith continues to be attacked by liberals. Her 2017 confirmation hearings made national news when some Democrats implied that her Catholic faith would make her unfit to be a judge.

When Barrett, who used to be a clerk for late Justice Antonin Scalia, went before the Senate Judiciary Committee for confirmation hearings in 2017, Senator Dianne Feinstein said: Why is it that so many of us on this side have this very uncomfortable feeling that dogma and law are two different things, and I think whatever a religion is, it has its own dogma. The law is totally different.

The conclusion one draws is that the dogma lives loudly within you. And thats of concern, she added.

Barrett, however, has already demonstrated her ability to judge fairly. She said on that occasion: Its never appropriate for a judge to impose that judges personal convictions, whether they arise from faith or anywhere else, on the law.

Why does believing in God and the Bible, like so many other Americans, make her unfit to serve on the Supreme Court? Rai, like the party she works for, is the epitome of the intolerance they claim to abhor. Liberals love to call for tolerance, but when its time to practice what they preach, its always a far different story.

Sources for this article include:

WND.com

FoxNews.com
A Canada-wide warrant has been issued for the arrest of a 29-year-old man for breaching the conditions of his statutory release.

Jimmy Nguyen is serving a sentence of four years and 10 months for conspiracy to commit an indictable offence, assault, and drug and weapon trafficking, according to a police news release.

Police say hes known to frequent the GTA.

Another countrywide warrant was issued for Nguyen back in January before he was arrested mid-February.

Police are asking anyone with information to contact them at 416-808-5900, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), or online at www.222tips.com.

Cheyenne Bholla is a breaking news reporter, working out of the Star's radio room in Toronto. Reach her via email: cbholla@thestar.ca
The gaming simulators market is expected to grow by USD 8.58 billion during 2020-2024. The report also provides the market impact and new opportunities created due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We expect the impact to be significant in the first quarter but gradually lessen in subsequent quarters with a limited impact on the full-year economic growth.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201001005656/en/

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Gaming Simulators Market 2020-2024 (Graphic: Business Wire)

Request challenges and opportunities influenced by COVID-19 pandemic Request a Free Sample Report on COVID-19 Impacts

The growing penetration of VR headsets has increased awareness and their use in the gaming industry. Integrating VR headsets with gaming simulator provides an immersive environment for gamers. It increases comfort and removes unnecessary distractions. VR headsets also act as a substitute for expensive LED screens. Such benefits have increased the popularity of VR headsets among gamers, which is fueling the growth of the global gaming simulators market.

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=IRTNTR41075

As per Technavio, the increasing sophistication of games will have a positive impact on the market and contribute to its growth significantly over the forecast period. This research report also analyzes other significant trends and market drivers that will influence market growth over 2020-2024.

Gaming Simulators Market: Increasing Sophistication of Games

The techniques of gaming are becoming increasingly sophisticated with changing preferences from a diverse group of consumers. For example, the adult consumer segment prefers more sophisticated and interactive games to escape from reality or to relieve stress. Hence, several gaming titles in the market are designed specifically to cater to this segment. Also, adult gamers tend to spend more for an enhanced gaming experience. These factors are positively influencing the demand for gaming simulators, which is driving market growth.

"Acceptance of 360-degree camera as next-generation technology and the ability of gaming simulators to provide the ultimate gaming experience will further boost market growth during the forecast period", says a senior analyst at Technavio.

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Gaming Simulators Market: Segmentation Analysis

This market research report segments the gaming simulators market by End-user (Commercial and Residential), Type (Racing, Shooting, and Flight), Component (Hardware and Software), and Geographic (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and MEA).

The North American region led the gaming simulators market in 2019, followed by Europe, APAC, South America, and MEA respectively. During the forecast period, North America is expected to register the highest incremental growth due to the proliferation of e-sports arenas in the region.

Technavio's sample reports are free of charge and contain multiple sections of the report, such as the market size and forecast, drivers, challenges, trends, and more. Request a free sample report

Some of the key topics covered in the report include:

Market Drivers

Market Challenges

Market Trends

Vendor Landscape

Vendors covered

Vendor classification

Market positioning of vendors

Competitive scenario

About Technavio

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses 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.

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Linkedin News Desk (Agence France-Presse) London, United Kingdom  Thu, October 1, 2020 14:15 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c486efca 2 Sports Liverpool,Neco-Williams,soccer,Premier-League,soccer-club,footballer Free

Liverpool stars including Virgil van Dijk have backed Neco Williams after the young defender received social media abuse.

Williams was criticized online after losing possession in the build-up to Lincoln's first goal during Liverpool's 7-2 League Cup win last week.

The 19-year-old Wales international has since stopped using his official Twitter account.

But Liverpool assistant manager Pep Lijnders said on Wednesday the highly-rated Williams knows he has the backing of his team-mates, including Van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Speaking ahead of Thursday's League Cup fourth round tie against Arsenal, Lijnders said: "It is not for me to comment on social media.

"The only thing I can say is abuse is wrong - through social media, on the street, it is wrong. Second, you are not a Liverpool supporter if you don't support.

"Trent [Alexander-Arnold] spoke with him [Williams], Virgil spoke with him, Robbo [Andrew Robertson] spoke with him - so it's not only Jurgen or me.

"It's how we take care of each other and that's what makes us different."

Lijnders, standing in for Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp at the press conference, added: "Neco is a doer, and doers make mistakes. We don't want safe play, a player who doesn't take risks.

"Our game is based on everyone taking the initiative from each position, and that is what we want.

"One of the most important lessons for each young boy who is coming through, each player, is that it is a weakness if you can get caught up in praise and criticism. I think he dealt with it really well, to be honest."
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 21:46:02|Editor: huaxia

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Chinese President Xi Jinping delivers an important statement at a high-level meeting held by the United Nations (UN) to mark the 25th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women via video on Oct. 1, 2020. (Xinhua/Ju Peng)

BEIJING, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday raised four proposals to advance women's rights and interests.

The international community needs to minimize the impact of COVID-19 on women, strive for genuine gender equality, ensure that women advance at the forefront of the times, and enhance global cooperation in advancing women's development, Xi said at a high-level meeting on the 25th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women.

"We need to pay special attention to the health, social and psychological needs and working environment of frontline women medical workers," Xi said.

He also noted that protection of women's rights and interests must become the commitment at the national level.

"As we pursue post-COVID recovery, we may create new opportunities for women to participate in decision-making and be more involved in national, economic, cultural and social governance," Xi said.

He stressed the importance of fully leveraging the role of the government and mobilizing all stakeholders to support women and help them live their lives to the full.

China supports the United Nations (UN) in making women's development a priority to make women-related targets early harvest results of its 2030 Agenda, Xi said.

He also suggested the UN Women expand its toolkit for promoting gender equality and improve the global roadmap for women's development. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2020-09-30 06:07:52|Editor: huaxia

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An anti-Brexit demonstrator is seen outside the Houses of Parliament in London, Britain, on Sept. 30, 2020. Politicians in Britain's House of Commons failed on Sept. 29 to defeat a government bill that will break international law. The Internal Market Bill successfully completed its journey through the Commons and now heads to the House of Lords where it is expected to also face fierce opposition ahead of becoming law. (Xinhua/Han Yan)

LONDON, Sept. 29 (Xinhua) -- Politicians in Britain's House of Commons failed Tuesday night to defeat a government bill that will break international law.

The Internal Market Bill successfully completed its journey through the Commons and now heads to the House of Lords where it is expected to also face fierce opposition ahead of becoming law.

In its final hurdle in the Commons, it won by 340 votes to 256 votes.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson introduced the bill earlier this month, saying it was vital to protect Britain's internal market after the country's links with the European Union (EU) finally come to an end on Dec. 31.

Brussels has threatened to take legal action against the British government if it does not withdraw clauses seen as a breach of international law because they override measures in an EU-UK Brexit withdrawal treaty signed by Johnson.

The deadline for withdrawing the opposed measures runs out Wednesday night, but the British government has insisted it will not back down.

In an effort to appease critics of the bill, ministers agreed to give the British Parliament a say before using powers outlined in the Internal Market Bill.

But opposition parties mounted a series of challenges, losing each one by margins of almost 100 votes, an indication of the strength of Johnson's majority in parliament.

Ian Blackford, leader at Westminster of the Scottish National Party (SNP), said even with the government's own amendments, the bill will still break international law.

Britain's Business Secretary Alok Sharma said businesses across the country had overwhelmingly backed the government's approach to trade and industry.

"The business community is clear that we must protect the sanctity of Britain's internal market," said Sharma.

The bill outlines how trade between England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will operate from January after the Brexit transition period ends. It includes a provision that there will be no new checks on goods moving between Northern Ireland and mainland Britain. Enditem
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) recently released a first look at the redesigned 2022 Eclipse Cross, the next step in the company's commitment to delivering a showroom full of new and extensively redesigned vehicles in the United States .

. MMNA will launch three considerably revised vehicles and one all-new, ground-up redesign by the second quarter of 2021: the 2022 Eclipse Cross, mechanically upgraded 2021 Outlander PHEV, the redesigned 2021 Mirage and the all-new next-generation 2022 Outlander.

MMNA is teaming with military veterans charity Record the Journey to contest this month's Rebelle Rally in a 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, the first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) ever to compete in the grueling 2000-km, all-women's, off-road navigation event.

MMNA recently announced a partnership with leading Internet-of-Things technology providers Aeris and Dealer-FX to leverage connected car technology that will enhance the Mitsubishi customer service and ownership experience.

Mitsubishi's Small Batch  Big Impact corporate social responsibility program expanded its mission in Q3, announcing a partnership with the Nashville Entrepreneur Center and assisting the Nashville Community Resource Center to distribute PPE kits to local teachers.



Q3 YTD

2020 2019 2020 2019 Mirage 5,839 8,276 14,292 21,177 Outlander Sport 7,719 7,382 24,504 26,150 Outlander 7,923 4,882 23,467 30,471 Outlander PHEV 947 666 1579 1,914 Eclipse Cross 2,429 3,268 8,775 15,859 TOTALS 24,857 24,474 72,617 95,571

About Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.

Through a network of approximately 350 dealer partners across the United States, Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is responsible for the sales, research and development, marketing and customer service of Mitsubishi Motors vehicles in the U.S. 2019 marked the brand's seventh consecutive year of sales growth, and MMNA was the top-ranked Japanese brand in the J.D. Power 2020 Initial Quality study, ranking sixth overall and experiencing the greatest year-over-year improvement of any brand.

Located in Franklin, Tennessee, MMNA is a part of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance. Mitsubishi continues to lead the way in the development of highly efficient, affordably priced new gasoline-powered automobiles, while using its industry-leading knowledge in battery-electric vehicles to develop future EV and PHEV models.

For more information on Mitsubishi vehicles, please contact the Mitsubishi Motors News Bureau at (615) 257-2698 or visit media.mitsubishicars.com.

For more information, please contact:

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Three other firefighters were injured, two of them hospitalized.

Technical evidence brought up by the defense  including so-called black box data  indicated that Labarge was traveling from 49 mph to 57 mph when the crash occurred.

Labarge, however, told state police at the hospital that night and again in testimony Wednesday that he was traveling at 60 mph to 65 mph in the 70 mph zone.

He said he was driving in the right center lane when his truck was buffeted by strong wind. He steered toward the left center lane to counter the wind and then spotted the brightly lit firetruck. When he attempted to move back to the right center lane his truck hydroplaned and he lost all control, unable to steer or brake.

County emergency personnel in an ambulance responding to the scene of the first crash that night testified that two tractor-trailers passed them on the right. Labarge was driving one of two trucks traveling together from Springfield to Chester to pick up a load of water.

Labarge testified that he did not pass any emergency vehicle but that he could see emergency lights behind him on the highway.
The San Francisco Bay Areas sky-high cost of living is nothing new  complaints about rent prices have been documented at least as far back as 1906. For years, there was little renters could do to push back on prices as demand far outpaced supply, creating a market in which landlords easily had the upper hand. In the midst of a year that has turned the world on its head, however, thats beginning to change, as one tenants group has already withheld an estimated $150,000 in rent payments over recent months.

Economically distressed tenants, primed by a cooling housing market, have increasingly been organizing to fight for lower housing costs and improved living conditions. Among the most drastic strategies being employed are coordinated efforts to withhold rent.

With any rent strike, participants fall into one of two categories: those striking out of necessity and those striking in solidarity, said Nick Thacker of Tenant and Neighborhood Councils (TANC), a member-run housing organization focused on tenants rights that has seen their membership increase more than sixfold since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. With so many people losing their incomes basically overnight, there was huge potential for participation in rent strikes out of necessity.

This was the case for many of the members of the Oakland-based Ivy Hill Tenants Union, whose group began to take shape about a week into the shelter-in-place orders.

One of my neighbors posted a couple of flyers around the building saying, Hey everybody  We need to get some sort of relief, otherwise were going to get kicked out of here, shared one of the organizers, who requested anonymity. Ever since, its grown and grown to where we have multiple buildings were representing, all under the same companies that the landlords own.

Other unions whose members are withholding rent were created years before the COVID-19 crisis, such as the Veritas Tenants Association (VTA), which represents tenants of the largest landlord in San Francisco. While previously they were focused on fighting in-building construction hazards and passthroughs  a type of rent increase where the cost of building improvements are passed along to the tenant  the pandemic has added a new sense of urgency to their work.

When I've spoken with people individually or through our meetings  they say, Listen, it's between paying rent and reassessing what groceries we need to buy, or, I have three daughters and there's not going to be any winter clothes this year, said VTA member Debbie Nunez. We've read it in the paper, we know it's real, but when someone says it to you, that impacts you and you don't forget.

A Risky Endeavor

Of course, skipping rent payments is not without potential consequences.

Typically, what would happen if you do a rent strike is that the landlord would issue three-day notices to pay rent or quit  If the tenant doesn't pay within the three days, then the landlord technically could issue eviction lawsuits in a building for every tenant that doesn't pay, said Joseph Tobener, partner at tenant law firm Tobener Ravenscroft. The issue, though, is that right now there are special protections in different jurisdictions for nonpayment of rent, as long as you can declare that you're affected by COVID.

Tenants must pay back any rent they owe after the protection period ends unless they fall under specifically covered circumstances.

Given the high-stakes nature of rent strikes, Tobener recommends against them. If you have a valuable, rent-controlled unit, a nonpayment rent strike is pretty risky. It's not too much effort for a landlord to hire an eviction attorney. It's not that expensive, and landlords would be salivating at the opportunity to evict rent-controlled tenants in a nonpayment action, Tobener added. So it'd be really unwise for rent-controlled tenants that have a long-term tenancy to go down the path of a rent strike unless they eventually wanted to move out anyways.

In fact, many tenants rights groups have historically advocated against withholding rent payments, pointed out Charley Goss, head of Government and Community Affairs at the San Francisco Apartment Association, an organization that supports rental owners.

While Brad Hirn, lead community organizer at the Housing Rights Committee of San Francisco (HRCSF), confirmed that lawyers and tenant advocacy groups do often advise against rent strikes, hes hesitant to do the same. Rent strikes have led to tremendous wins in the past, so why would we take a tenant's most powerful weapon off the table? Hirn said. [Tenants] ask Well, what if they start targeting me? And I say they were already targeting you. You're a rent-controlled tenant.

The key to efficacy, according to proponents of rent strikes? Solidarity.

If we are to check the power of the housing market, weve got to build our own power, our own leverage. The best way to do this, in our view, is creating situations in which tenants can negotiate collectively with their landlords rather than as individuals, Thacker said. When you negotiate collectively, along with tenants across your landlords property holdings, the dynamic is transformed.

Offers, But No Agreements

So far, tenants unions' collective action does seem to be yielding results, although the offers may fall short of the groups demands.

Early on in their strike, the Ivy Hill Tenants Union sent a joint letter to their landlords, who in turn sent a letter to everyone who lived in their building. They did not want to recognize us as a union, and they continue to have that position, the Ivy Hill Tenants Union organizer said.

The deal within offered tenants who paid rent immediately a 20 percent discount for the following two months, and a 10 percent discount for those who would not be able to pay right away. "We didnt take that offer because one, we had no idea how long this was going to last, and in hindsight that was a very good decision because then wed be right back to where we were, the organizer added.

The offer also provided the people with the most money the biggest discount, not the people who are most impacted, and was not extended to the tenants in other buildings (which had not yet organized at the time).

In the months since the beginning of their strike, the group estimates that theyve withheld about $150,000 in rent, with that figure growing by tens of thousands of dollars each month.

VTA members received an offer as well, which included 50% forgiveness of unpaid rent from April to July 2020 for tenants of their properties and a repayment program for the remaining balance. The group followed up with a counterproposal of 100% rent forgiveness and contributions to a local small business fund as well as a rent relief fund for those who had already paid their rent, which was rejected.

We did not set out to create a rental relief package that was designed to be a first offer. We sought to construct a program that was as generous as we could afford during a time of economic distress, Veritas said in a letter obtained by SFGATE.

Both unions we spoke with expressed skepticism that their landlords were unable to extend more generous offers, with Nunez and Hirn pointing to Veritas recent receipt of a $3.6 million Payroll Protection Program loan and a $90 million investment in Veritas Investments Los Angeles.

Veritas, for their part, defended themselves in the previously mentioned letter as a minority-owned and managed small business owning no real estate [that] instead manages it on behalf of institutional investors. SFGATE reached out to Veritas for further comment but had not heard back at time of publication.

The Ivy Hill Tenants Union, on the other hand, cited their familiarity with their landlords finances.

We know what they paid for the building, we know what we all pay for rent, so we can get a good idea of what their margin is and its enormous, the Ivy Hill Tenants Union organizer said. Considering that not everybody in the buildings are part of our union and part of the rent strike, we know that theyre still at least covering their bills.

Most of us understand what its like to have a business and expenses  but at the same time, theyre in the business of peoples shelter, which is one of the base needs of a persons life, they added. Weve all been sacrificing, and were simply asking the landlords to share in that sacrifice for the greater good of the community.

An Undeterred Movement

Although both VTA and the Ivy Hill Tenants Union are at an impasse with their landlords, they remain determined to carry on. VTA is currently working on legislation with Supervisor Aaron Peskin that would extend collective bargaining rights to tenants associations and organizations, which Hirn said has never been done in the country to the depth and extent that we're doing today to their knowledge.

I honestly do believe that Veritas should be shaking in their boots, said VTA member and part-time HRCSF employee Lenea Maibaum.

While the Ivy Hill Tenants Union declined to provide specifics, the group shared that they did have a number of different things  in the works that were both doing right now and well be doing soon to increase the pressure and try to get them to the negotiating table.

And ultimately, thats what they want most: negotiation.

I've heard from a lot of tenants that the 50 percent is not enough, but they would take even 75 or 80 percent  they could make it work. But you only arrive at something that is mutually satisfactory through some type of good-faith negotiation process, Hirn said.

Were not trying to bankrupt anybody here. More than anything, we want to just get some relief, begin paying rent, and resolve the tension for everybody. We want to find a resolution, the Ivy Hill Tenants Union organizer said.

Emily Blaire is a freelance writer in the Bay Area. Contact her at emilywrites@hey.com
Amaravati, Oct 1 : Telugu Desam Party (TDP) senior leader Varla Ramaiah alleged that the law and order situation is deteriorating in Andhra Pradesh, in a letter to Director General of Police (DGP) D. Gautam Sawang on Thursday.

"Law and order deteriorated visibly in the past 16 months, going by how brutal attacks were continuing on Dalits, opposition leaders, temples, social media activists and all sections of dissenting voices in the people," alleged Ramaiah.

He cited several crimes on Dalits to substantiate his assertions.

"I. Prasad, a Dalit, was humiliated by tonsuring his head in a police station itself in East Godavari district," said Ramaiah.

He said the actual perpetrators behind the atrocity on Prasad can be identified if the suspended police sub-inspector Firoz Ali's phone call list is accessed and analysed.

Ramaiah referred to Vikram Domatoti's case, another Dalit from Guntur's Palnadu region.

"It was inspector Durga Prasad that summoned Vikram from Hyderabad. Vikram was made to visit Gurajala police station and was allowed to leave only in the late night hours, which facilitated the assailants to brutally kill him," said the senior TDP leader.

Likewise, he also referred to the death of Y. Kiran Kumar, another Dalit boy from Chirala who was thrashed by the police which led to his death.

Ramaiah also highlighted other atrocities on Dalits such as the Om Pratap case in Chittoor district and also the recent case on Ramachandra, brother of Dalit judge Rama Krishna.

According to Ramaiah, some cases in the state are being entrusted to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) because the state police are failing miserably.

"It was only because of the miserable failure of AP Police that the investigations by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) were ordered in over three cases, including the mystery murder of Reddy's own maternal uncle Vivekananda Reddy who also happened to be an ex-MP," he claimed.

The opposition leader advised Sawang that police at all levels should discharge their duties impartially without discriminating on socio-political and religious lines.

"As the atrocities and attacks were going on unchecked, the TDP has stepped in to stand by the people of the state," he claimed.

Ramaiah admonished the senior IPS officer not to allegedly turn a blind eye to the opposition in a democracy.

"Opposition (role) in a democracy is that of a watchdog. Opposition in a democracy in general and in the Indian democracy in particular has a very crucial role to play by alerting and pushing the government to discharge its duties in a foolproof manner," he asserted.
Minor girl raped by lover and friends in UP

UP: Body of minor girl found in a pit, days after she went missing

Accused in Saidabad rape and murder case kills self, says police

8 year raped in Azamgarh

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

Azamgarh, Oct 01: An eight-year-old girl was allegedly raped by a 20-year-old man in a village in Jiyanpur area of the Azamgarh district, police said on Wednesday.

The accused took the girl with himself from her home telling her mother that she would have her bath in his house, the police said, quoting from the complaint lodged by the girl's mother.

The accused had also taken from the girl's mother her clothes, the police aid.

Minor girl raped in Bulandshahr

But when the child returned from the neighbour's house, she was writhing in pain and bleeding, the police said.

Hathras sealed ahead of Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi's visit|Oneindia News

The girl was rushed to a hospital where her condition was stated to be serious, the police said.

Azamgarh Superintendent of Police Sudhir Kumar Singh said the accused, identified as Danish, has been arrested.

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Thursday, October 1, 2020, 9:36 [IST]
Nursing has offered her a glimpse of humanity few get to experience

Kristy Nielson once took care of a young woman whose virus left her unable to walk. The woman was a patient in the nursing unit of the hospital in which Nielson worked.

"I and the others on the healthcare team were committed to seeing this young woman walk," Nielson said. "And, she did. She walked out of the hospital a year after she was first admitted. One day, about a month after she left the hospital, I saw her out in public with her friends. It is etched in my brain. She was having a good time, smiling and laughing. That was one of the best nursing moments of my career."

That career ha...
Press secretary Kayleigh McEnany sparred, withdrew, advanced, and attacked in a contentious briefing with reporters on Thursday as the White House ramps up its defense strategy six weeks away from the election.

McEnany bickered repeatedly with the press in her 25 minute briefing. The topics included a river where President Donald Trump claimed absentee ballots were found and about his comments on white supremacists.

And, in a rare backstep for the press secretary, she also apologized for making a mistake about Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett's academic record.

The back-and-forths from McEnany were reminiscent of President Donald Trump's posture at Tuesday's presidential debate, when he repeatedly interrupted and talked over his Democratic rival Joe Biden.

McEnany acknowledged the parallels as tension rose in the room as she deflected questions on several controversies involving the president and reporters kept asking them. People talked over one another. McEnany attempted to regain order. The atmosphere grew chilly as the briefing ticked on.

Press secretary Kayleigh McEnany sparred, withdrew, advanced, and attacked in a contentious briefing with reporters on Thursday

Fox News' John Roberts pressed Kayleigh McEnany to clarify where President Trump stood on white supremacists

After the briefing, Fox News Chief White House correspondent John Roberts went on cable network to call out McEnany: 'So stop deflecting. Stop blaming the media. I'm tired of it'

After being asked by several reporters to clarify - in simple, straight forward language - whether or not the president condemned white supremacists, she snapped back.

'We're not having a debate on a cable news network right now. You need to let me finish,' she said. 'It's quite funny that the media goes haywire about interrupting in debates and then chooses to pursue that very same tactic themselves.'

Fox News Chief White House correspondent John Roberts, in a stunning display of anger and frustration, went on his cable news network - of which President Trump is a frequent viewer - to slam McEnany.

'For all of you on Twitter who are hammering me for asking the question, I don't care because it's a question that needs to be asked and clearly the president's Republican colleagues a mile away from here are looking for an answer for it, too. So stop deflecting. Stop blaming the media. I'm tired of it,' he said from the White House lawn with the executive mansion visible behind him.

After his appearance, McEnany took to twitter to refer to a post from his wife, ABC News correspondent Kyra Phillips, who had questioned the president on Wednesday about his white supremacist comments in the debate.

'@johnrobertsFox I would refer you to your wife's reporting from 21 hours ago... accurate reporting I cited in the White House Press Briefing,' McEnany wrote.

'Just now: @realDonaldTrump tells me he DENOUNCES white supremacists,' Phillips wrote.

Trump had come under fire from Biden and some members of his own party for failing to condemn white supremacists when given the chance on the debate stage.

'I've always denounced any form of any of that,' the president said Wednesday on the South Lawn of the White House before he left for Minnesota. 'Any form of that you have to denounce.'

But additional questions were raised when the president didn't give a straight yes or no answer.

Roberts started off Wednesday's press briefing when he got the first question and asked: 'If I could start off, I would like to ask you for a definitive and declarative statement without ambiguity or deflection. As the person who speaks for the president, does the president denounce white supremacists.'

Bloomberg White House reporter Justin Sink asked Kayleigh McEnany to clarify her claim Judge Amy Comey Barrett was a Rhodes' scholar

Supreme Court nominee Amy Comey Barrett actually attended Rhodes College in Tennessee

The briefing descended into chaos from there with McEnany trying to answer questions reporters fired at her, both sides talking over the other repeatedly.

CBS' Paula White and CNN's Kaitlan Collins also asked her to clarify President Trump's remarks on white supremacy.

'The president has denounced it repeatedly. The president was asked this. You are contriving a story line and narrative,' McEnany told reporters.

That was in the first ten minutes. Next McEnany had to clarify her remarks about President Trump's Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett.

In her opening statement at the briefing, McEnany called Barrett a 'Rhodes scholar.'

The Rhodes Scholarship is a prestigious academic award to study at Oxford University in England. Each year 32 are awarded. Past recipients include President Bill Clinton, retired General Wesley Clark, Democratic presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg, and former National Security Adviser Susan Rice.

'She also is a Rhodes scholar,' McEnany said of Trump's nominee. Barrett actually received her BA from Rhodes College in Tennessee.

'You said Justice Barrett was a Rhodes scholar. I don't know if that's true,' Bloomberg's Justin Sink said to the press secretary.

'That's what I have written here,' McEnany replied.

Upon being told Barrett attended Rhodes College in Tennessee, McEnany said: 'Attended Rhodes College. So my bad.'

The White House, led by President Trump, has taken a more defensive posture since polls show him trailing Biden both nationally and in several key states.

In one memorable back-and-forth, McEnany refused to name the river where President Trump claimed several mail-in ballots had been dumped. The president has been a vocal critical of mail-in voting, saying it will lead to a 'rigged' election but has offered no proof of his allegations.

Fox Radio correspondent Jon Decker asked Trump's claim that some people found ballots in a river. He asked McEnany multiple times to name the river where the ballots were found and who found them.

She never gave a name and indicated it was actually a ditch the ballots were found in.

'Local authorities. A ditch if Wisconsin where they were found. That's what the president was referring to. You are missing the forest for the trees,' McEnany told him.

Trump said of the ballots: 'There's fraud. They found them in creeks.  They are being dumped in rivers. This is a horrible thing for our country.'

He appeared to be referring to a situation in Wisconsin where three trays of mail were found in a ditch off a highway. The mail trays included a variety of mail and not just absentee ballots. It's also unclear if those ballots had ever been filled out. There is an ongoing investigation.

Kayleigh McEnany also didn't name the river where President Trump claimed mail-in ballots were found after being asked to repeatedly by Fox Radio reporter Jon Decker

'I cover the news and I like to report accurately in the news. When the president said they found a lot of ballots in the river. Where is the river?,' Decker said to her.

'You want to ignore the fact of the matter,' she told him.

'I got asked so many questions. Where is this river? I want to have accurate information and that's why I'm asking you,' he replied.

McEnany then pivoted to a situation in Pennsylvania under investigation where nine mail-in ballots were found in the trash, seven of which were Trump votes.

'This is what is happening here. You are ignoring the problem here. Last week in Pennsylvania you had ballots found in a ditch. That's a fact. In Wisconsin seven military ballots marked for Trump were found cast aside,' she said. 'I don't understand the lack of journalistic curiosity on that.'

'Where is the river? That's curiosity,' Decker said. 'I am asking you where the river is and you're not giving an answer.'
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Thu, October 1, 2020 17:22 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4881441 1 City Tangerang,prison-escape,prison-break,drug-convict,death-row-inmate Free

Two prison officers at the Tangerang penitentiary in Banten have been suspended following the escape of Cai Changpan, a Chinese drug convict on death row, on Sept. 14.

Law and Human Rights Ministry Corrections Directorate General spokesperson Rika Aprianti confirmed the move.

"The head of security and the commander of the guard team when the incident occurred are temporarily dismissed from the Tangerang penitentiary and have been transferred to the Banten Law and Human Rights Regional Office," Rika said on Thursday as quoted by tempo.co, adding that both would still go through an investigation despite the transfer.

Jakarta Police spokesperson Sr. Comr. Yusri Yunus said the escape of the 53-year-old man, who also goes by the name Cai Ji Fan, was discovered 11 hours after the fact.

Yusri said the tower guard and another officer in charge of monitoring CCTVs at the penitentiarys command center admitted they had been asleep during the incident.

Cai left the penitentiary at 2:30 a.m. through a 30-meter-long tunnel he had dug over the past six months. Yusri said the police were still examining the possibility that other persons were involved in Cais escape.

Cai was found guilty of drug trafficking and sentenced to death in 2017.

Reuters reported that Cai had broken out of a Jakarta police detention center in 2017 by breaking a hole in a bathroom wall.

The police have placed him on their most wanted list. (aly)
Vandals kept stealing the Joe Biden signs outside Sonja Bihary's home in rural Blair County in west-central Pennsylvania, so she turned her garage door into a campaign billboard. Read more

BLAIR TOWNSHIP, Pa.  Trump 2020 campaign signs are visible from Sonja Biharys kitchen window, from her backyard and the front, spiked into the lawns she passes on her daily commutes, and spread across billboards on local highways.

Donald Trump received 73% of the vote in 2016 in rural Blair County, where Bihary lives with her husband and four daughters. So when the elementary teacher put up some campaign signs for Democratic candidate Joe Biden and his running mate, Kamala Harris, she expected a little pushback.

We would put a sign out and a few days later, they would be gone, she said Tuesday evening in her living room.

One time, a teenage boy rang her doorbell, told her that he and his friends took the sign, and replaced it. Bihary, 50, said she never went to the police about the thefts or vandalism.

I was going to order a flag so it would be closer to my house, she said.

Biharys husband, an Army veteran who asked not to be named, takes credit for the idea of turning their garage door into a billboard, but shes the one who bought the red and white paint, taped out the letters, and painted Biden/Harris on the approximately 16-by-8-foot panel. They were already planning to get a new door.

She began the project around Labor Day. Many motorists in this west-central Pennsylvania township slow down to look. Some get out of their cars to thank her. Some curse at her.

A woman on the back of a motorcycle gave me the finger," said Bihary. But Id say the positive comments have outweighed the negative.

Pete Palumbo, vice chairman of the McKean County Democratic Committee on the states northern edge, believes the Biden supporters in rural Pennsylvania may be the silent majority.

The picture is painted that were a bunch of redneck hicks up here, Palumbo said. The Biden people are pretty quiet, and the Trump people are a bit louder. We may be rural up here in Gods country, but were not stupid.

Biden may have a garage door in Pennsylvania, but one Trump supporter turned an entire home into a tribute to the president, a tourist attraction known as the Trump House in Youngstown, Westmoreland County. Landlord Leslie Baum Rossi created her shrine to then-candidate Donald Trump during the 2016 campaign.

On the Pennsylvania Turnpike in central Pennsylvania, a massive Trump 2020 monument at least 20 feet wide was created out of blocks on an earthen berm, greeting thousands of motorists heading east from Pittsburgh.

Last month, a Lebanon County man was charged with stealing Trump campaign signs and vandalizing supporters' homes. Pennsylvania State Police dealt with vandalism to both candidates signs in Bucks and Northampton Counties last month, along with Black Lives Matter signs and others supporting law enforcement.

Palumbo said his committee has put out approximately 15 larger Biden signs, about five feet square, and three of them have been vandalized. Of the 700 lawn signs theyve handed out, approximately 60 to 70 have been stolen.

Bihary said there are more signs for Biden than Hillary Clinton had in 2016, though she believes the support for Trump has gotten obnoxious.

My garage door was my little reply to it all," she said. I mean, big reply."
He then ordered the woman to drive him to an Elgin convenience store, where he had her to accompany him inside and call a cab for him from her cell phone, reports said. He directed her drive him to the Elgin train station so he could meet the cab and flee, the release said.
LONDON, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Logicalis Group, an international IT solutions and managed services provider, today announced the appointment of Mick McNeil to the position of VP for Business Development, a role created to lead the evolution of Logicalis Group's Digital Transformation business leveraging Microsoft's technologies. This appointment comes as part of Logicalis and Microsoft's joint commitment to a global strategic alliance to bring teams together and innovate with industry-leading solutions and services. The partnership will help jointly deliver on the promise to support customers with tangible business outcomes to transform their businesses.

McNeil, who is relocating from Microsoft's headquarters in Seattle to Europe, held several global roles within Microsoft's commercial partner organization, most recently leading the incubation of strategic partnerships across the Americas, Asia and the United Kingdom. In that role, McNeil was instrumental in helping Microsoft's global partners transform their operating models to succeed in a cloud-first world.

In the form of a global strategic partnership, this renewed joint commitment builds upon Logicalis' longstanding relationship with Microsoft. Currently, Logicalis is one of only 65 global firms out of 60,000 cloud partners to achieve Microsoft Azure Expert Managed Services Provider (MSP) status worldwide. Through this elevated partnership status and McNeil's appointment, Logicalis can further accelerate the development of its highly innovative, leading-edge solutions and services embedded with Microsoft technology for its 10,000 global customers.

"Adoption of cloud technologies to empower employees, engage customers, optimize operations, and transform products is at the forefront of every CEO's mind today," McNeil said. "As I look across the globe at Logicalis capabilities in cloud infrastructure, advanced analytics, IoT, business process automation, and remote work/collaboration, my focus will be to bring these capabilities to deliver impact for every customer in every region with Microsoft industry-leading technology platforms at the center. I could not be more excited to work with our global team of 6,500+ professionals as we accelerate customers' transformation journeys to innovate and adapt in a cloud-first world."

Robert Bailkoski, Logicalis CEO, added, "As we welcome Mick to Logicalis, we note that this strategic partnership with Microsoft provides our customers with the opportunity to work with the combined benefits of Microsoft and Logicalis together. We are proud to be part of this elite group of global Microsoft-accredited Azure Expert Managed Service Providers as we continue to deliver the best business outcomes for our global customers."

To learn more about how Logicalis is working with Microsoft to empower customers to leverage the latest technologies to meet organizational needs, contact us here.

About Logicalis

Award-winning Logicalis US works alongside our customers to recommend, plan, and implement a digital transformation strategy that aligns with their business goals.

Through our consulting and managed services and with our longtime strategic partners, we then deliver custom security, network, workplace, cloud, data center, and IoT & analytics solutions. As Architects of Change, we help our customers to deploy and adopt technologies that engage their employees and customers, optimize and manage IT operations for improved agility and cost savings, and employ emerging technologies that deliver innovative outcomes.

Logicalis US is part of the Logicalis Group, which has more than 6,500 employees and annualized revenues of $1.7 billion, from operations in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia Pacific and Africa.

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MASSACHUSETTS Massachusetts has spent $838 million of the $1.1 billion it set aside in a supplemental budget bill for fighting the coronavirus crisis, according to a report released Wednesday that also shows how that money has been spent.

The report shows the state spent $744 million of the $1 billion set aside for the fiscal year ended June 30 and $94 million of the $140 million set aside for the fiscal year that started July 1. The state could still spend the money remaining for Fiscal Year 2020, as it has not yet closed the books on the year ended June 30.

The report's biggest line item was $350 million for personal protective equipment, which was slightly below the $356 million state lawmakers projected when they passed the bill earlier this year.



Other key details from Secretary of Administration and Finance Michael Heffernan's report to the chairs of the House and Senate Ways and Means Committees:

The state has not released $20 million that had been set aside by the Baker administration to "address racial disparities in health during the 2019 novel coronavirus pandemic."

The Baker administration has also not released $111 million for hospital, health provider, and nursing home payments.

The state spent $47 million on field hospitals, well below the $85 million that had been anticipated.

The state had budgeted $44 million for a contract tracing program but had only spent $29 million as of Wednesday's report.

Most Local Earmarks Funded

The supplemental bill included $6.6 million for local programs, most of which had been funded as of Wednesday's report. Some bigger local earmarks include:

$600,000 for housing stabilization in Lawrence.

$500,000 for personal protective equipment in western suburbs represented by Senate President Karen Spilka.

$450,000 for remote learning in Medford.

$300,000 for public meeting changes in Andover.

$250,000 for shelter and food programs in Chelsea.

$250,000 to Revere for monitoring, treating and preventing coronavirus.

$250,000 to Winthrop for monitoring, treating and preventing coronavirus.

Story continues

Other Local Aid

Massachusetts cities and towns also got aide from the supplemental budget bill in the form of grants, including:

$25.7 million for housing programs, with most of that funneling through the state's rental assistance program.

$7.2 million for food distribution programs.

$2.5 million in school reopening grants.

$1 million in grants to local boards of health.

$846,000 in remote learning grants

Dave Copeland writes for Patch and can be reached at dave.copeland@patch.com or by calling 617-433-7851. Follow him on Twitter (@CopeWrites) and Facebook (/copewrites).

This article originally appeared on the Boston Patch
New Delhi, Oct 1 : The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Thursday said that it has arrested a Senior Inspector of the Store Account of Central Railways in a graft case.

The CBI said that the accused has been identified as Bipin Kumar Sharma, currently posted as Senior Inspector of Store Account, Mumbai division of CST, for demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs 30,000 from the complainant.

A CBI officer said that he was arrested after a case was registered on a complaint alleging that Sharma demanded a bribe of Rs 30,000 for smooth delivery of 30,000 pieces of scrap PSC Sleeper which was awarded to the firm of the complainant.

"The CBI laid a trap and caught Sharma red handed while demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs 30,000 from the complainant," the officer said.

The CBI also carried out searches at the residence of Sharma. He is being produced before the competent court at Kalyan on Thursday.
President Donald Trump arrives to board Air Force One before departing from Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland on Sept. 30, 2020. (Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images)

Trump Signs Stopgap Bill to Avert Government Shutdown

Move comes shortly after Senate passed the bill late Wednesday

President Donald Trump signed a stopgap spending bill in the early hours of Thursday to extend government funding through to Dec. 11, averting a government shutdown as the new fiscal year began at midnight.

The bill was approved in the Senate by a bipartisan 84-10 vote late Wednesday. Trump signed the bill shortly after returning from a campaign rally in Duluth, Minnesota.

The temporary spending billH.R. 8337, the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2021 and Other Extensions Actis required to maintain current funding levels to keep federal agencies running and extend most programs because the Senate has not acted on any of the 12 annual spending bills for the fiscal year that ends on Sept. 30, 2021. These bills deal with some 30 percent of the federal governments day-to-day budget.

Trumps signing of the bill allows appropriators and congressional leaders until Dec. 11 to work out budget details dealing with the 12 spending bills, including for military operations, healthcare, national parks, space programs, and airport and border security. Discussions concern nearly $1.4 trillion in funding.

On Dec. 11, Congress will return to the government funding question during its post election session where they will have to consider yet another extension, or will have finalized the 12 spending bills by then.

Sunlight shines through the U.S. Capitol in Washington, Sept. 20, 2020. (Joshua Roberts/Reuters)

The House of Representatives approved the bill last week after having reached a deal with Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. The bill includes nearly $8 billion in nutrition assistance for children who normally receive school lunches amid the widespread shutdown of schools as a result of the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus pandemic.

It would also keep payments flowing through the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) program providing aid to farmerssomething the Trump administration wantedwhile adding on accountability measures.

The bill also extends programs such as the federal flood insurance program, highway and transit programs, and a long set of extensions of various health programs, such as a provision to prevent Medicaid cuts to hospitals.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and Mnuchin on Wednesday failed to reach an agreement for a fifth relief package amid the CCP virus pandemic. The talks between the two continue.

Before the talks, the White House had said Trump could agree to a $1.3 trillion bill.

Jack Phillips and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
The coronavirus pandemic continues to negatively impact businesses worldwide, and even big companies like the Walt Disney Company could not escape it.

On Tuesday, Walt Disney became the latest company to announce a massive layoff following the occurrence of the coronavirus crisis.

The company, which was founded in 1923, decided to cut 28,000 workers from its Parks, Experiences, and Products division.

Josh D'Amaro, the Chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, delivered the devastating news to the employees through a letter.

"We initially hoped that this situation would be short-lived, and that we would recover quickly and return to normal," D'Amaro announced. "Seven months later, we find that has not been the case. And, as a result, today we are now forced to reduce the size of our team across executive, salaried, and hourly roles."

For what it's worth, 67 percent of the said 28,000 employees are working part-time for the company.

Despite the disastrous event, Disney is shouldering the healthcare costs of the employees. It is also said to be in touch with the affected employees to help plot their next steps.

Disney's Decision

Seeing the happiest place on Earth affected by such a crisis is already destructive. However, Josh D'Amaro saw the layoff decision as more heartbreaking, especially since there is no other feasible option left.

In the same letter obtained by CNBC, the chairman expressed grief that they had to do it due to the uncertainty about the end of the pandemic.

"We've cut expenses, suspended capital projects, furloughed our cast members while still paying benefits, and modified our operations to run as efficiently as possible, however, we simply cannot responsibly stay fully staffed while operating at such limited capacity," he explained.

Walt Disney's theme parks in Paris, Hong Kong, Florida, Shanghai and Japan have been reopened with limited capacity and safety protocols in place.

Meanwhile, Disneyland Resort in Anaheim remains closed due to its struggles in conforming to local health protocols before reopening.

Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, also halted its reopening schedule due to a sudden surge in cases in the state.

Due to these closures, the Walt Disney Company reported in August that it has already lost $4.7 billion in three months -- its first quarterly loss in nearly two decades.

This news came after several companies also announced closurea or massive layoffs due to the global health crisis.

Apart from Walt Disney, airline industries like United Airlines and American Airlines announced their plan to discharge thousands of jobs.

Since passengers need to avoid flying for leisure purposes, it crippled the aviation industry as well.

Last week, even Ralph Lauren reported that it's planning to cut at least 15 percent of its 24,900 employees around the globe.

Moreover, the U.S. labor department said on Friday that they will release its latest monthly jobs report. People expected the country to at least gain 850,000 jobs this September, but that was not the case since the recovery rate appears to be slowing down than before.

Also, only nearly half of the jobs people lost during the lockdown period have been recovered.

READ MORE: Resident Evil: Infinite Darkness -- COMPLETE Details About Netflix's Original Anime Series
Italy and Poland could be removed from the UKs quarantine-free travel list as cases rise (Kirsty OConnor/PA)

Italy and Poland could be removed from the Governments quarantine-exemption list following an increase in Covid-19 cases.

The seven-day rate of new cases per 100,000 people in Italy is now at 20.4, up from 18.4 in the previous week.

Poland also reported 25.9 new cases per 100,000 people, increasing from 15.6 in the week prior.

Expand Close Passengers arriving from countries outside the quarantine exemption list have to self-isolate for 14 days (Steve Parsons/PA) PA / Facebook

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Whatsapp Passengers arriving from countries outside the quarantine exemption list have to self-isolate for 14 days (Steve Parsons/PA)

A seven-day rate of 20 new cases is the threshold above which the UK Government considers triggering quarantine conditions.

Should the countries be removed from the exemption list, travellers will have to self-isolate for 14 days on their return to the UK.

A Department for Transport spokeswoman would not comment on whether either country would be taken off the safe travel corridor list.

It comes as Transport Secretary Grant Shapps last Thursday said passengers returning from Denmark, Iceland, Slovakia and the Caribbean island of Curacao would have to self-isolate on their return.

At the time, Denmark was recording a seven-day rate of 65.2 coronavirus cases per 100,000 people, up from 33.8 a week earlier.

Iceland and Slovakia had rates of 80.4 and 25.9 respectively, while Curacao was on 66.7.

Figures have been calculated by the PA news agency based on data collected by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.
Abu Dhabi state fund Mubadala Investment Co will invest Rs 6,247.5 crore to secure 1.4 percent in the retail unit of Reliance Industries (RIL).

This latest investment  with Silver Lake's co-investors and General Atlantic, is the fifth in three weeks  values Reliance Retail at a pre-money equity value of Rs 4.285 lakh crore, RIL said in an exchange filing.

Here are five key things to know about this deal:

>> This is the second significant investment by Mubadala in a Reliance Industries subsidiary after the $1.2 billion investment in Jio Platforms announced earlier this year.

>> Mubadala is billed as the second-biggest state investor after Abu Dhabi Investment Authority. It has more than 50 businesses and investments in over 50 countries.

>> Mubadalas investment will translate into a 1.4 percent equity stake in Reliance Retail Ventures on a fully diluted basis.

>> Investor interest in Reliance Retail, a subsidiary of RRVL, has been amplifying in the past few weeks. Besides the Silver Lake investments, Indias biggest brick-and-mortar retail business has also collected Rs 5,550 crore from US buyout firm KKR & Co and Rs 3,675 crore from private equity firm General Atlantic.

Disclaimer: Reliance Industries (RIL) is the sole beneficiary of Independent Media Trust which controls Network18 Media & Investments Ltd.

>> Mubadalas portfolio spans advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, metals and mining, pharmaceutical and medical technology, renewable energy and utilities, and the management of diverse financial holdings.
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Linkedin Yu Liuqing (The Jakarta Post) Singapore  Thu, October 1 2020

In Indonesia, import substitution policies are showing signs of making a comeback. In recent years the country has appeared committed to outward-looking free-trade agreements. ASEAN countries, through the founding pacts of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), have secured significant tariff reductions across member states. Indonesia has also been among the more vocal supporters of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), a mega-regional trade agreement set to harmonize many existing trade agreements.

However, protectionist sentiment has never been far from the surface and it may be that the country sees such trade agreements primarily as ways to promote its exports. President Joko Jokowi Widodo has expressed concerns about Indonesia being a destination for exports from other ASEAN members once the AEC is finalized. The Indonesian government has also managed to retain many non-tariff barriers, despite its rhetoric.

According to the World Bank, 69 percent of goods imports to Indonesia are subjected to non-tariff measures, like pre-shipment inspection and traceability requirements, compared with 31.1 percent in Thailand and 38 percent in Vietnam.

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My maternal grandmother was a schoolteacher, starting in one-room schools and retiring from the Merrill schools, teaching sixth grade English and reading. She was very practical, plain-spoken, and honest, and never had qualms about expressing her opinions. During the early 1970s school building boom, the Merrill school leaders came to her classroom after the school day and started pushing her students desks in close together. Of course, Grandma was perturbed and asked what in the devil they were doing. They were staging photos for a millage campaign, to convince voters in the district that the old school was terribly overcrowded and that they needed money to build a brand-new roomy school.

Grandma would have nothing of it and she made it clear to the school leaders that they would not use her classroom to fabricate a reason to raise taxes. The millage vote went down that time, although Merrill went on later to build their new school. Grandmas honesty and practicality played a small role in delaying the inevitable.

I think about that episode of Grandmas when I see the campaign by Mid Michigan College to expand their tax base into Gratiot County. It was always the intent when the college was founded, they say, to include the Gratiot-Isabella Intermediate School District, not just the Clare-Gladwin Intermediate School District. Gratiot County has more students there than any other counties but Clare and Isabella, they say, and if the College gets Gratiot County to pay them millage, our students there would be able to pay in-district tuition inside of out-of-district tuition. What a deal! So, if Im understanding Mids argument, they want nearly all of Gratiot County property owners to pay a couple hundred dollars more in property taxes every year  because they thought of doing it back in in the 1960s, and because there are perhaps a few hundred students from Gratiot that would get a small reduction in tuition.

Lets look at this more closely. Why, after more than 50 years, is Mid-Michigan College suddenly arguing that it was always the intent to annex Gratiot County to its district? What has changed that makes it so important to ask Gratiot County taxpayers across the board to pay into Mid-Michigan Colleges coffers? Is Mid expanding its programming to serve Gratiot County communities? Not visibly. Are there so many students from Gratiot County that Mid is proposing to build facilities here? No indication that it plans to do so, even though it constructed a huge facility in Mt. Pleasant  which isnt inside Mid-Michigan Colleges district, either. So it doesnt appear that Mid intends to invest in programs or facilities that would directly benefit Gratiot County taxpayers in exchange for the tax dollars that would be paid  the College would be very clear about that message if it intended to enhance its presence in Gratiot County.

What about the argument that Gratiot Countys enrollments are the most, right behind Isabella and Clare? That is meaningless in the absence of actual numbers, and comparisons to other colleges. Most Gratiot County residents enrolled in college and university classes do so at institutions like Central Michigan University, Michigan State University, Alma College, Hope College, and the like.

Community college enrollment is a fraction of the overall totals, and a good number of Gratiot County enrollments in community colleges go to Montcalm Community College, Delta College, Lansing Community College, and others. Montcalm in Sidney is actually closer to Gratiot County than Mids main campus at Harrison  and its very likely that Gratiot County enrollments at Montcalm rank it number 2 or 3 at that school. But Montcalm Community College hasnt asked for millage from Gratiot County because of the number of Gratiot students. Where do Gratiot Countys community college enrollments go? How many and in what percentage? Do we send such high numbers and high percentage of students to Mid that it warrants us taxing ourselves to make Mid cheaper for them to take classes there?

Whether youre a Republican, a Democrat, or an independent, Gratiot County taxpayers step up and approve paying reasonable property taxes when the public benefit is clear: public school millages, parks, libraries, senior citizens, 911 and emergency services, roads and transportation, etc. When the benefit isnt clear and reasonable, we say no, like they did recently in the Ithaca school district.

In exchange for agreeing to tax ourselves, we have always had a reasonable expectation that our public officials will be good stewards of our citizens tax payments and balance what we pay with what we need  we dont want to pay for frills, and we expect to get value for the taxes we invest in ourselves. In my opinion, Mid Michigan Colleges request that Gratiot County approve annexation and a separate millage doesnt rise above that bar. The request appears to be a gambit to augment Mids budget, with no investments returning as concrete benefits to Gratiot County. Assuming that a quarter of Gratiots adult population wants to go to college, that a quarter of them want to go to a community college, and that half of them want to go to Mid Michigan College, thats a ballpark figure of about 900 people  fewer than the population of Breckenridge  who would get the benefit of paying a lower rate of tuition, courtesy of all Gratiot County property tax payers. And what else would we be paying for, beyond that reduced tuition rate? What more do we get in return for those extra tax dollars we would be sending to Harrison and Mt. Pleasant? Would Gratiot County get back anything on what were being asked to put in?

Gratiot County needs to continue to invest wisely in its future, continue to diversify its economy, continue to rebuild its employment opportunities and commercial enterprises, broaden its tax base, market itself even better for existing businesses and those looking for good places like our communities to establish themselves, and make it easier for our communities to compete  for business and for people. There is much more we can do  and do better  to harness what we have in order to keep our existing families and businesses here at home and attract more families and businesses to locate in Gratiot County.

The lack of tangible returns to Gratiot Countys people, businesses, and communities from the taxes Mid Michigan College wants us to pay means that there is no real investment in Gratiot Countys future from those taxes. Without that investment, I have to vote NO on annexation and NO on Mid Michigan Colleges tax. I need a real explanation beyond We talked about it 50-plus years ago, and Students can pay a lower in-district tuition, or I cant support sending away $3 million a year that does better good inside taxpayers pockets. Should Mid Michigan College demonstrate a real commitment to serving Gratiot Countys communities, it might warrant another look at another time. But right now, they havent made the case.

Gerald Dean Winn is a resident in Gratiot Countys Seville Township.
The challenge has been how to maintain a frictionless, virtually invisible border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to the south. Erasure of a border was a key part of the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, brokered by the United States, and was critical to ending three decades of sectarian violence between pro-British Protestants and pro-Irish Catholics. But it wasnt obvious how to avoid border checks after Northern Ireland left the E.U. along with the rest of the United Kingdom.
Syracuse, N.Y.  Bridgid Purtell spent four hours on hold, trying to get her 8-year-old daughter an appointment for a Covid-19 test at the Onondaga County school testing site at NBT Bank Stadium.

The first time she called Sept. 25, she listened to the hold music for nearly and hour. Then she held on in silence after the music ended. Her first call was two hours, she said.

Then the line went dead. So Purtell called again. In all, she spent four hours on the phone before she was able to get her daughter an appointment for a Covid-19 test at NBT Bank stadium so the child could go back to school.

Purtells story has been repeated by parents throughout Onondaga County whose children have been sent home from school with one of myriad Covid-19 symptoms  such as a runny nose or diarrhea.

Most have been told they must produce a negative test result and a note from their doctor before the child can return to school. So far, 500 children have been tested. There have been five positive results.

County Executive Ryan McMahons office has been bombarded by parents calling to complain about the difficulty they are having getting appointments. But Justin Sayles, a spokesman for McMahon, said the county only provides the test site; the testing is being done by Upstate Medical University, along with Nascentia Health. The appointments are all being made through Upstates system.

The county and hospital are working together to solve the problem, Sayles said.

Kathleen Froio, a spokeswoman for Upstate, said there is now an online scheduling option through MyChart. If you are already an Upstate patient, you can go into your account and schedule an appointment easily. If you are not, Upstate plans to offer a guest option that will go live Friday, Froio said.

She said Upstate has brought in extra staff to answer the phones. Wednesdays hold time was down to about 30 minutes.

Part of the issue is the volume. In the first week of testing, there were 1,500 calls. That number has risen to 6,000 calls a week.

Every call takes between 3 and 7 minutes, depending on the number of students in a family who need to be scheduled. While that doesnt seem like a long time, it adds up when more than 1,000 people are calling every day.

Froio and Sayles said parents can take their kids anywhere else that offers Covid-19 tests. The tests at NBT are not rapid and the NBT turnaround right now is between 24 and 48 hours, Froio said.

Thats about the same turnaround for any tests being processed by Quest Diagnostics, which handles the Syracuse Community Health Center tests. Those tests require no appointment. You can walk up or drive through.

Some primary care doctors are offering Covid-19 tests, too. But many are not. WellNow, an urgent care company, is offering Covid-19 tests. The website says the wait time is 4-5 days, but there are rapid tests available in Oswego, Pulaski and Utica.

Costs vary for the different tests. The NBT tests are free. And tests in New York are supposed to be free for people who are suffering from Covid-19 symptoms. But doctors' offices and the urgent-care centers may charge a visit fee.

The main difference between the tests at NBT and elsewhere is where they stick the swab. NBT is the only saliva test offered locally. All of the other tests are a nasal swab, which some people find uncomfortable. The Q-tip that goes into a persons nose is similar in length to the one used for a strep test. (The actual poke takes about the same amount of time, too.)

Froio, of Upstate, said this is the test parents prefer, which is driving up volume.

Contributing to the long wait times is that parents understandably want the oral swab for their children, rather than the nasal swab, and our turnaround time of 24 to 48 hours is desirable, increasing demand even further, she said.

Marnie Eisenstadt writes about education, people, public affairs and the Syracuse City School District. Contact me anytime. email | Twitter| Facebook | 315-470-2246

12 Free COVID test at NBT Bank Stadium for students

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Complete education coverage on syracuse.com
Iconic British premium motorcycle brand Triumph Motorcycles expanded its dealership network in India with the launch of its new state-of-the-art dealership in Chennai. Triumph has partnered with Khivraj Group in Chennai. The new dealership called Khivraj Triumph is spread over an area of 5000 sq.ft including sales and service area. The dealership also features a niche customer lounge allowing customers to experience Triumph hospitality along with a wide range of products.

Apart from catering to the entire range of Triumph motorcycles  Modern Classics, Adventures, Roadsters & the Rockets, Khivraj Triumph will also offer a host of accessories, merchandise and apparel suited to each category of motorcycle. The dealership will offer the signature Triumph experience - the dealership is divided into different experiential zones such as a consultation lounge; build your own bike zone for customers who want to customize their machines  being a reflection of their personality and individuality, and an official merchandise zone showcasing official Triumph lifestyle clothing and riding gear.

Talking on the footprint expansion Mr. Shoeb Farooq, Business Head  Triumph Motorcycles India said, Chennai is an important market for us. Almost 75% of premium motorcycle business in India is driven from the Southern and Western region and having a strong presence in Chennai is of strategic importance. Having associated with Khivraj Group for this important market gives us a lot of confidence and hope that we will be able to deliver the most premium brand experience which customers expect from Triumph. The ultra-modern and state of the art Khivraj Triumph Chennai, is one of our most premium stores in the country which we expect will soon be a hub for all motorcyclists in the region.

With this store, we have now consolidated our network across India covering all important markets. From today Khivraj Triumph Chennai is formally open for customers and will showcase the full range of motorcycles - the largest BS-VI line-up in the country in the premium category with 13 motorcycles in the portfolio, along with a wide range of rider-centric clothing and accessories to give a complete Triumph experience.

The inauguration of the new dealership in Chennai was accompanied with multiple motorcycles deliveries across categories including the Triumph Rocket 3R. Two Rocket 3Rs were delivered on launch day, becoming the only Rockets in all of Tamil Nadu.

Also Watch:

Triumph Motorcycles has put in a new SOP across its dealerships to ensure the safety of all staff and customers keeping in mind the ongoing pandemic, including virtual Whatsapp consultations, sanitization of motorcycles and common touchpoints, along with the service centre.

Home test rides & deliveries are also being offered to customers to ensure social distancing and customers are being encouraged to book prior appointments before visiting the dealership to ensure limited number of people are present at the dealership at all times.
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / Dimension Five Technologies Inc. (CSE:DFT) (the "Company") announces that, effective September 30, 2020, Craig Murata has resigned as the chief financial officer, secretary and a director of the Company. The Company thanks Mr. Murata for his service and wishes him all the best in his future endeavors.

ABOUT Dimension Five Technologies Inc.

Dimension Five Technologies Inc., based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, had been developing a new investing platform that helps connect early stage companies with investors. The Company is seeking to change its main business activities as set out in a press release dated July 14, 2020. Additional information on Dimension Five is available on the company's website at http://www.dimensionfive.ca.

For further information, please contact :

Chris Parr, CEO

Chris@dimensionfive.ca

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein.

SOURCE: Dimension Five Technologies Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/608736/Dimension-Five-Announces-Resignation-of-Officer-and-Director
Hathras gang-rape case: Rahul, Priyanka Gandhi return to Delhi

India

oi-Ajay Joseph Raj P

Hathras, Oct 01: UP Police have released Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra after detaining them on their way to Hathras to meet the family of the gang-rape victim. The two Congress leaders will now head back to Delhi.

#WATCH Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, KC Venugopal & Randeep Surjewala being taken to Buddh International Circuit in Gautam Buddh Nagar, after they were detained by UP Police on their way to Hathras. pic.twitter.com/6XguHbmtrF  ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) October 1, 2020

Rahul Gandhi, who was on his way to Hathras, accused the police of pushing him and starting lathicharge on workers. "I want to ask, can only Modi Ji walk in this country? Can't a normal person walk?", the Congress leader questioned.

Speaking to reporters, Noida ADCP Ranvijay Singh said, "We have stopped them here. The Epidemic Act is being violated. We will not allow them to proceed forward."

Earlier, both the leaders left 10, Janpath, Delhi, the residence of the Congress president, and entered UP via the DND flyover, where a large number of Congress workers had gathered. Traffic was disrupted in the area. Congress leader Randeep Surjewala is accompanying the two senior leaders.

Hathras gang-rape case: Akhilesh Yadav slams Centre, says BJP is showing its true colours

Meanwhile, the Congress leaders, were stopped by authorities on Yamuna Expressway, the party said. The Gandhis were on their way to meet the family of the 19-year-old Dalit woman who died after being gang-raped and tortured by four upper-caste men in the Uttar Pradesh district.

"UP CM must take responsibility for the safety of women and ensure atrocities against them are stopped. Unless govt is shaken, woken up, it will not do anything to ensure women's safety. The incident (Hathras gangrape) was a big injustice and what the govt did after that in cremating the body was a bigger insult. Around the same time last year, we were fighting for the Unnao daughter, the situation in UP has not changed in a year," she said.

The Congress leaders have begun a march to meet the family of the 19-year-old Dalit woman who died after being gang-raped and tortured by four upper-caste men in the Uttar Pradesh district

In Hathras, the district magistrate has imposed prohibitory orders under section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) and ordered sealing of the district borders to maintain peace. The Gandhis, who have been critical of the BJP-led UP government for failing to protect the victim, want to express their condolences and show solidarity to the victim's family in Hathras.

Hathras rape victim burnt like orphan under police force: Sonia

Condemning the incident, Rahul Gandhi said on Twitter, "All this is a shameful move of the UP government to suppress the Dalits and show them their "place" in the society. Our fight is against this hateful thinking."

Hathras gang-rape case: NHRC issues notice to Uttar Pradesh govt, state police chief

Priyanka Gandhi slammed the Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath government over the incident in Hathras and demanded his resignation, saying that he has no moral right to continue.

"Yogi Adityanath RESIGN. Instead of protecting the victim and her family, your government became complicit in depriving her of every single human right, even in death. You have no moral right to continue as Chief Minister," Priyanka Gandhi said in Hindi on Twitter.

Hathras gangrape: Plea in SC for CBI probe, transfer of trial to Delhi

Hathras sealed ahead of Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi's visit|Oneindia News

"I want to ask some questions to the chief minister of UP - Who ordered to cremate the body of the victim, forcefully denying the family its right to do so? Where were you sleeping for the last 14 days? Why did not you act... What kind of chief minister are you?," she tweeted.
A federal judge on Wednesday ordered the Justice Department to release certain previously redacted sections of the Mueller report by Election Day, ruling that portions of the report were improperly deemed classified.

U.S. District Court Judge Reggie Walton in Washington, D.C. said that the DOJ violated federal law by unnecessarily redacting at least at least 15 pages of special counsel Robert Muellers report on Russian meddling in the 2016 election and the Trump campaign.

The redacted portions of the special counsels final report appear to deal with charging decisions made by Muellers team as well as the hack and theft of the Democratic National Committees emails by alleged Russian intelligence operatives in 2016, and the Trump campaigns interest in the stolen emails after they were published on WikiLeaks.

The Mueller report sections in question must be released in full by November 2, a day before the general election, the judge said in his order.

Walton noted, however, that large portions of the 448-page report were rightly hidden from public view in order to protect the privacy of individuals, ongoing investigations, and the law enforcement process.

The ruling came in response to a lawsuit by BuzzFeed News and the Electronic Privacy Information Center, who sued to have the entire Mueller reported released in unreacted form under the Freedom of Information Act.

More from National Review
Philips One, built on Sonicare's 30-year history of oral care research and development, reimagines the power toothbrush and delivers a product that looks great and makes teeth feel great, too. Microvibrations coupled with soft, contoured bristles provide a gentle, yet thorough clean that whitens teeth with the press of a button. A two-minute SmarTimer ensures proper brush time and the Quadpacer signals when to move to the next section of the mouth, which means you are brushing just as your dentist recommends.

"At Philips we believe in creating innovative oral health solutions for everyone," says Marci El-Deiry, Senior Director of Marketing, Consumer & Professional Oral Healthcare. "New Philips One by Sonicare is an upgrade from a manual brush, uniting vibrant design with on-the-go convenience. Sonicare makes products for people who live life to the fullest, and we've developed a toothbrush that keeps up with them. We're excited to see them One up their brushing for whiter, brighter smiles!"

The compact Philips One achieves the portability and flexibility of a manual toothbrush, without compromising oral care while on the move. Complete with a travel case and a long-lasting battery, Philips One simplifies and maximizes the efficacy of oral care routines, all with a fun aesthetic available in four unique colors: Mango, Miami, Midnight and Mint. Brush heads are sold separately and can be mixed and matched to create a toothbrush that speaks to each user's individuality. Match brush heads and handles or switch up color combinations to create a unique design customized to individual style.

The electric toothbrush, starting at $24.99, comes equipped with matching brush handle and head, travel case and AAA battery. Following purchase of a starter kit, users can opt into a subscription service that seamlessly delivers a new brush head and replacement AAA battery right to their door every three months. The automatic refill helps keep oral health routines on track and ensures optimal efficacy of brush heads.

Philips One by Sonicare is available on Philips.com starting October 1st. Visit philips.com/One for more details.

About Royal Philips

Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) is a leading health technology company focused on improving people's health and enabling better outcomes across the health continuum from healthy living and prevention, to diagnosis, treatment and home care. Philips leverages advanced technology and deep clinical and consumer insights to deliver integrated solutions. Headquartered in the Netherlands, the company is a leader in diagnostic imaging, image-guided therapy, patient monitoring and health informatics, as well as in consumer health and home care. Philips generated 2019 sales of EUR 19.5 billion and employs approximately 81,000 employees with sales and services in more than 100 countries. News about Philips can be found at www.philips.com/newscenter.

SOURCE Philips Oral Healthcare

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Fighting wildfires is hot and heavy work.

When Harris Nowotarski left Pennsylvania at the end of July to fight wildfires in California he was allowed just 55 pounds of gear. That included camping gear and a 25-pound line pack he would wear daily.

Its definitely more physical working in the heat and the smoke, he said.

His most dangerous work was clearing burning snags close to the fire line, working in the black to protect the green.

A snag is a tree that is dead but is still standing in the woods, he said. Its all a little bit dangerous: You never know how fire is going to behave.

Firefighters are required to carry their own tent and sleeping bag to fire camp. They must be equipped with flame-resistant clothing (such as Nomex), leather lug-soled boots, hardhat, leather gloves, eye protection and a fire shelter before being allowed to work on the fire line.

Nowotarski, 26, is a graduate of Tulpehocken High School. He lives in Hatfield, Montgomery County, but his years hunting and being out in the woods of Berks County led to his career. He studied forest technology at Penn College of Technology in Williamsport. He started as forest technician for the William Penn Forest District since 2016. Now a forester, he works out of the field office in Evansburg State Park near Collegeville, Montgomery County.

Dangerous season

It was the second time Nowotarski volunteered to be on a wildfire crew outside the state. He went to Oregon and Texas two years ago.

His group of 20 was sent to the Caldwell and Stump fires in California as part of his 14-day assignment. Due to the coronavirus, the crew had to drive 40 hours instead of flying out west.

The Caldwell Fire, sparked by lightning, has been burning since July 22 in the area of Lava Beds National Monument, in Modoc and Siskiyou counties. It merged with the Gillem Fire, which also was started by lightning, at the larger fires northwest corner. Hundreds of wildfires have raged in the western states this year, leading to 33 deaths. Theyve put more than 70,000 people under evacuation orders in the wine region north of San Francisco.

In addition to the human toll, fires in Colorado, Montana, Utah, New Mexico, Arizona and California and the Pacific Northwest have cost hundreds of millions of dollars.

In one of the most dangerous and overwhelming fire seasons in history, help from the federal government and out-of-state crews has been needed to bolster firefighting efforts. Personnel from 27 states and Puerto Rico have joined the battle, but officials have said resources are running thin.

The Boise, Idaho-based National Interagency Fire Center, which coordinates the support, recently requested fire personnel and equipment from Mexico, Canada and the U.S. military to assist with wildfire suppression efforts in California and Oregon.

We continue to experience above-normal fire activity in California, Colorado, Idaho, Oregon and other states, Ken Schmid, Bureau of Land Management Fire Operations said in a news release. Thankfully, our Department of Defense and international partners are able to support us in this time of need, as wildfire activity will likely carry on for the foreseeable future, particularly in California.

The center reported Tuesday that the number of fires this year is well above the 10-year average. The center reports that to date more than 7 million acres have burned.

Sending help

Pennsylvanias Department of Environmental Resources has sent six crews so far this year, including two of its wildfire-fighting engines. It sent two crews last year. The fire crews are paid through coordinating agencies and not the state.

So far, everyone has come back safely, said Mike Kern, chief, division of Forest Fire Protection, Pennsylvania DCNR-Bureau of Forestry.

We still have 24 personnel scattered across various states in the West, mainly California, Oregon, Colorado and Wyoming, he said in an email.

On Sept. 25, a half-dozen DCNR wildfire fighters were sent to join others from neighboring states and the National Park Service to help the fight the Mullen Wildfire in Wyoming. The Mullen Wildfire has burned over 19,526 acres and is only about 2% contained.

Pennsylvania wildfire personnel are or have served in Arizona, California, Colorado, Montana, Nevada, Texas and Wyoming this fire season.

The crews, which are trained under national standards, are dispatched through mutual assistance agreements.

On the ground

Nowotarski said some of the work he did involved doing line maintenance of areas that had breaks built by bulldozers to essentially make sure the fire would not advance. He also spent time mopping up, hunting for smoking embers that could threaten green areas nearby.

With the coronavirus, firefighters had to change some of the ways they lived and worked, he said.

The people in the Pennsylvania crew kept to themselves, not mingling with other crews where they camped or worked. Coordination between crews might including yelling over 10 feet.

The actual base camp was a little different, he said. They did not have a mess hall. Meals were boxed, and there was emphasis on hand washing.

Nowotarski said he was glad for the opportunity.

To be honest, its a great way to go out and help out with their struggle with wildfires, he said. We dont have woods like California.
A federal judge has ordered Edward Snowden to hand over to the US government $5.2million he made from book sales and speeches, according to the Justice Department.

The judgement against the former National Security Agency contractor relates to his disclosure of the government's mass collection of emails, phone calls and internet activity in his writing and talks.

The 37-year-old, who leaked intelligence secrets in 2013, published a book last year without government approval which breached contracts he had signed with the Central Intelligence Agency and the National Security Agency.

Snowden was required to submit books and speeches to the government before publication to ensure classified information is not exposed.

A federal judge this week ordered Edward Snowden to pay the US government $5.2million he has received from book sales and speeches. He is pictured here in exile in Russia

The Justice Department brought a lawsuit against Snowden after the breech and a judge ruled in their favor late last year.



However, the judgement entered this week assigns a value to the amount of money Snowden earned from the book 'Permanent Record' and about 100 speeches he gave while living in exile in Russia.

In the book, Snowden explains how he viewed himself as a whistleblower by revealing details about the government's mass collection of emails, phone calls and internet activity in the name of national security.

'Permanent Record,' a memoir by Edward Snowden. He was ordered to hand over book proceeds to the US government

Snowden has so far raked in $4.2million from sales of his book, as well as royalties and related rights.

He also gave 56 paid speeches for an average fee of $18,000 - making nearly $1.03million alone from these public appearances.

The government estimates he disclosed government secrets in dozens of them, based on slides and visual aids that were part of his speech.

'Intelligence information should protect our nation, not provide personal profit,' said G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, whose office pursued the civil case.

'This judgment will ensure that Edward Snowden receives no monetary benefits from breaching the trust placed in him.'

Snowden's lawyer, Lawrence Lustberg, said his client can still fight to keep the money from being collected.

'The judgment embodies no more than his acknowledgement of the amounts that he knows the Court would have awarded against him,' Lustberg said in a statement.

Snowden's lawyers have argued that the government had already broken the secrecy agreements by indicating that it wouldn't give his book a fair prepublication review.

His lawyers have also said that the book contains no material that hadn't previously been made public.

Snowden also gave 56 paid speeches for an average fee of $18,000 - making nearly $1.03million. He is pictured here delivering a speech at the 2019 Web Summit in Portugal

Computer security consultant Edward Snowden in connection from Russia during the Wired Next Fest 2019. He has been ordered to give the government the money from these speeches

The federal government's lawsuit didn't attempt to limit the book's distribution, but asked the judge to allow the government to collect all the proceeds from the book.

The government says any money received will be placed in a trust 'for the benefit of the United States'.

Snowden had agreed a plan with the Trump administration, which was filed in court on last week, to pay back the sum into a trust.

But the agreement did not mean that the US government would be able to access the money immediately as Snowden pushed back.

The civil judgment is wholly separate from a criminal case against Snowden in the Eastern District of Virginia.

In 2013, Snowden shared thousands of classified documents with journalists, prompting the US government to charge him with two counts of violating the Espionage Act of 1917 and theft of government property.

The Hawaiian-based whistleblower worked for the CIA and NSA for several years and says he concluded that both agencies had 'hacked the constitution' with extensive government surveillance, putting everyone's liberty at risk and forcing his hand to leak the information to the media.

Snowden's decision to go public with the information set off a global debate about government surveillance, put in place by intelligence agencies in a perceived bid to avoid a similar attack to 9/11 from happening ever again.

He has been living in exile in Russia since he leaked the documents.

The U.S. has been unable to extradite him for trial. However, last year, Snowden said his 'ultimate goal' was actually to return home to the US.

Though he said any such return would be dependent on the US government offering him a fair trial, something he says officials have 'refused to guarantee'.

'But if I'm gonna spend the rest of my life in prison, the one bottom line demand that we have to agree to is that at least I get a fair trial.'
Geneva is set to introduce 'the world's highest minimum wage' which will equate to 41,430 ($53,370) a year  around 3,500 ($4,510) a month.

The Swiss city, which has a voter population of around 500,000, held a referendum with two-thirds backing the new measure.

The alterations, which had been rejected by voters twice before in both 2011 and 2014, will now come into effect from October 17.

Geneva (pictured) is set to introduce 'the world's highest minimum wage' which will equate to 41,430 a year  around 3,500 a month

How the basic hourly rate compares Geneva's new minimum wage will equate to just under 19.50 ($25.12) per hour - this is how it compares: Australia: 11 ($14.17) an hour France: 9.28 ($11.95) an hour UK: 8.72 ($11.23) an hour United States: 5.63 ($7.25) an hour Advertisement

Geneva is the world's second most expensive city, according to a cost-of-living index compiled by Expatistan.

But it was hit particularly hard by the outbreak of Covid-19 due to its reliance on revenue from tourists and business visitors.

It has suffered growing coronavirus-linked poverty as families have become increasingly reliant on provisions from food banks - with queues of more than half a mile long forming at the peak of the pandemic.

Michel Charrat is the president of the Groupement Transfrontalier Europeen - an organization that represents cross-border workers in France and Switzerland.

He told the Guardian that the vote represented a 'mark of solidarity' across the economic divide in Geneva.

Mr Charrat said: 'Covid has shown that a certain section of the Swiss population cannot live in Geneva.'

He added the measure would benefit 30,000 low-paid workers - with two-thirds of them being women.

The new minimum wage was initially proposed by the Left-wing parties in Switzerland who argued that its introduction was the best way to address the rising cost of living.

Geneva (pictured) is the world's second most expensive city and it was hit particularly hard by the outbreak of Covid-19 due to its reliance on revenue from tourists and business visitors

Those on the Right had instead suggested adopting a limit on immigration from EU member-states as a way of tackling the crisis - but voters rejected this proposal.

The city's new minimum wage will be set at just under 19.50 ($25.12) per hour.

This is more than triple that in the United States, which operates at 5.63 ($7.25) per hour, and more than double the basic hourly rate in the United Kingdom of 8.72 ($11.23).
Nick Otto / Special to The Chronicle

San Francisco school children were told to toss the turkey sandwiches sent home in grab-and-go bags Wednesday because of possible mold contamination.

Lunches and other meals are still distributed at school sites across the city even though students do not attend classes in person.
The 'technology not taxes' policy at the heart of the federal government's plans to reduce the cost of clean energy could deliver positive results, experts say, but it lacks measures to drive industry take up and faces stiff international competition.

Last week the federal government announced the first measures under its technology plan to lower greenhouse gas emissions by focusing on five priorities: hydrogen, energy storage, clean steel and aluminium (powered by low emission energy), carbon capture and storage for manufacturing and energy generation, and soil carbon capture.

The federal government's technology roadmap is funding research and development into batteries and other clean energy to drive down the cost of production. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer.

Energy Minister Angus Taylor said the government's investment of $18 billion in research and development over the next decade could move the "dial into parity with the high emitting alternatives".

The policy sets goals to reduce the cost for battery storage to $100 a megawatt hour, carbon capture and storage to under $20 a tonne, and soil carbon capture to $3 a hectare each year.
According to Stanychno-Luhanska District State Administration, Russian-occupation forces in Donbas are shelling the forestland near the entry-exit checkpoint, as a result of which new wildfires emerge.

"According to the residents of Stanytsia Luhanska, starting from 23:30 shots from large-caliber weapons from the occupied territory were recorded. After that loud explosions of shells were noted in the area of the entry-exit checkpoint. At about 00:20 a statement was received about a wildfire in the forestland near the entry-exit checkpoint," Stanychno-Luhanska District State Administration said on its Facebook page on Thursday night.

Information about the shelling by Russian-occupation forces was also confirmed by Head of Luhansk Regional State Administration Serhiy Haidai:

"We have information that 'marker flare' were fired from the uncontrolled territory, that is, the grass was deliberately set on fire," the Ukraine 24 television channel said, citing Haidai in its Telegram channel on Thursday night.

According to him, aviation is ready to be involved in extinguishing fires in Luhansk region. "two planes and a helicopter are in a state of readiness, but there is no confirmation of the provision of silence," Haidai said.
The Armenian military claimed to have shot down seven unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) which it said entered Armenia from Azerbaijan. It said that one of them launched a missile on an Armenian border village and killed a local resident before being destroyed by Armenian air-defense forces.

The village of Mets Masrik is located in the countrys eastern Gegharkunik province bordering Azerbaijan. According to Shushan Stepanian, a spokeswoman for the Armenian Defense Ministry, two other drones were downed in the same area northwest of Karabakh.

Stepanian said at around midnight that a fourth Azerbaijani UAV was shot down deep inside Armenian territory, in central Kotayk province. She also reported that Azerbaijani forces shelled another border village in Gegharkunik, Shatvan, late in the evening.

One of the two main Armenian highways leading to Karabakh passes through that village. Stepanian said that a local section of that highway was shelled by Azerbaijani forces earlier on Thursday.

Baku did not immediately react to these reports. It said in the afternoon that the Armenian army fired long-range rockets from Armenia at Azerbaijani army positions southeast of Karabakh.

Meanwhile, Karabakh officials accused the Azerbaijani side of stepping up artillery strikes against Karabakh towns and villages. They said that in one of those towns, Martuni, four civilians died as a result.

Two Armenian and two French journalists were wounded in Martuni during the shelling. One of the correspondents for Frances Le Monde daily underwent life-saving surgery in Stepanakert.

According to Karabakh authorities, a total of 11 Karabakh Armenian civilians have been killed since the start of the hostilities on September 27. The Azerbaijani side has reported 16 civilian casualties.
The cost of adding one more year of life to someone who is dying of coronavirus is more than five times higher than the maximum the NHS can spend on other illnesses, according to a statistician.

Professor Simon Wood, from the University of Edinburgh, has calculated that it costs approximately 180,000 per extra year of life to rescue a dying Covid-19 patient.

Writing in The Spectator, Professor Wood said that decisions made by the Government may mean people catching the virus end up having considerably more money spent on them than others who will later die young as a result of lockdowns.

Generally, he said, the NHS watchdog will only spend up to 30,000 per year of life on any new treatment, deeming any higher cost a bad cost-to-benefit ratio.

But the purse strings have been loosed for Covid, Professor Wood said, and sufferers effectively deemed worthy of more money than people with other illnesses.

Experts have repeatedly warned that many people left in worse physical or mental health, or in poverty, as a result of policies brought in to slow down Covid-19 could see years chopped off their life expectancy.

Official estimates of life-years saved by the Government's expenditure, combined with results from a Scottish study in April, suggests 250,000 people could have died if the current lifesaving efforts had not been made.

The Government has spent billions of pounds on preparing and equipping the NHS to cope with Covid-19, including opening new hospitals, buying ventilators, stockpiling drugs and ordering unprecedented amounts of personal protective equipment (Pictured: Nurses tend to a coronavirus patient in intensive care at the Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridge in May)

Professor Wood calculated the approximate cost of adding one year of life to someone dying of coronavirus by looking at official debt forecasts.

The Office for Budget Responsibility predicted the UK's national debt would grow by 550billion next year as a result of spending during the epidemic.

Spending does not only include that on medical procedures, but the Government is known to have spent billions of pounds on opening Nightingale Hospitals, renting out private hospital beds and buying equipment and clothing for NHS staff, for example.

Millions have also been pumped into clinical trials of drugs, research and development for vaccines and furlough schemes to keep people in work.

Professor Wood compares the 550billion with the Department of Health's claim that three million years of life would have been lost if it hadn't been spent.

Dividing the money by the life-years saved suggests each year of life costs 180,000, according to the Government.

Lockdown 'could kill 75,000 over five years' - that's the OFFICIAL projection of non-COVID deaths Nearly 75,000 people could die from non-Covid causes as a result of lockdown, according to devastating official figures buried in a 188-page document. The startling research, presented to the Government's Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage), will further increase pressure on Boris Johnson to hold back on introducing further coronavirus restrictions. The document reveals 16,000 people died as a result of the chaos in hospitals and care homes in March and April alone. It estimates a further 26,000 will lose their lives within a year if people continue to stay away from A&E and the problems in social care persist. And an additional 31,900 could die over the next five years as a result of missed cancer diagnoses, cancelled operations and the health impacts of a recession. The toll of deaths directly linked to the virus last night stood at 41,936. The estimates, drawn up by civil servants at the Department of Health, the Office for National Statistics and the Home Office, were presented to Sage at a meeting on July 15. The documents stressed that had nothing been done to stop the spread of the virus in March, 400,000 people could have died of Covid. And if the NHS had been overrun, this figure might have even soared to 1.4million. But they acknowledged the restrictions had significant unintended consequences. Advertisement

By contrast, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), which makes decisions on which drugs are good value for the NHS, considers 30,000 to be at the upper end of its good value limit, Professor Wood said.

He wrote: 'These costs [550bn expenditure] would be in line with the usual NICE threshold only if we had faced a 20million life year loss.

'That would have required a disease as deadly as the 1918 influenza, which, barring the possibility of future lethal mutation, Covid-19 is not.

'Meanwhile, the usual NICE threshold remains for other conditions.

'Just a few months ago, funding for Dupixent, a drug proven effective at cutting asthma attacks, was rejected for regular NHS funding on the grounds that it was too expensive.

'So are we effectively saying that each Covid-19 victim is more worthy of saving than six or seven victims of other diseases?'

Professor Wood argued that investing the same amount of money or less in improving life expectancy for poorer people, who live significantly shorter lives than the wealthiest in British society, could have saved far more lives.

He added: 'At the start of the pandemic there was arguably no time for such calculations.

'But as we face what is described as a second wave, it is surely time to give more attention to the indirect effects of lockdown, the inevitable trade-offs, and how best to act in a way that saves the most life from all causes.'

Considering Professor Wood's calculations in line with a study from earlier in the year suggests that some 250,000 people could have died if the Government had not spent so much money fighting Covid-19.

Research by Public Health Scotland and the universities of Glasgow and Edinburgh  although not known to have included Professor Wood  suggested Covid-19 was robbing victims of around 12 years of their lives.

The study was published in April as the first peak of the epidemic was coming to an end and it found men who died of Covid-19 were losing, on average, 13 years of their lives, while women had 11 years cut off their life expectancy.

Using a middle-ground of 12 years suggests the three million years of life that the Department of Health says could have been lost would equate to some 250,000 people dying.

The prediction lines up with one made by the Imperial College London scientists whose research pressured Boris Johnson into starting lockdown in March.

A report published by the Imperial College Covid-19 Response Team, led by Professor Ferguson, predicted on March 16 that 510,000 people could die in the UK if no measures were taken to slow down the coronavirus. It added that even just social distancing measures could allow a quarter of a million people to die and overwhelm the NHS. Britain went into a total lockdown just days after the work was published

Research by Public Health Scotland and the universities of Glasgow and Edinburgh  although not known to have included Professor Wood  suggested Covid-19 was robbing victims of around 12 years of their lives

Work by Professor Neil Ferguson and his colleagues predicted in the spring that 250,000 people could die if there was no stay-at-home order given.

The team said that NHS hospitals would be overwhelmed 'eight times over' and a quarter of a million people could have been killed by Covid-19.

Just days later, Mr Johnson held the seminal TV briefing announced the country was shutting down in a bid to stop the virus spreading any further.

As it stands, between 40,000 and 60,000 people have died of the virus in the UK.

The Department of Health says 42,202 people have died within 28 days of officially testing positive.

Statistical organisations across the UK, meanwhile, suggest that there have been around 59,000 'excess deaths' during the epidemic, which includes people who died of Covid-19 but never tested positive, as well as those who died because of indirect effects of lockdown, such as being unable to get hospital care.
BRIDGEPORT  Two civilian detention officers at the Bridgeport Police Department were given a warning for their involvement in a melee back in 2017, according to officials, but apparently face no other disciplinary measures.

Thirteen police officers, two sergeants, one detective, one lieutenant and the two detention officers were cited for policy and procedure violations in a lengthy internal affairs investigation into how officers broke up a party on Oct. 21, 2017, and handled those arrested after the fact.

The officers involved  other than two who died by suicide and one who has retired  were referred to the Police Commission for disciplinary hearings. Those hearings have been ongoing for more than a year.

Testimony for the remaining officers still with the department wrapped up last month, according to Dan Roach, chair of the commission.

Civilian detention officers Jose Figueroa and Paul Humphrey  who were working in booking that October 2017 night  gave their testimony before the commission Sept. 17 for issues that Roach described as very minor.

Now that the underlying facts have come out, we trust the Police Commission will make the right decision when they issue further rulings, Sgt. Brad Seely, president of the police union, said in a statement. The officers involved in this case have spent the last three years protecting our residents and neighborhoods. They deserve closure to a case that has dragged on for too long.

The internal affairs report said Figueroa used excessive force in poking a partygoer in the chest hard enough to press him back into a chair after Figueroa claimed the man made a rude comment about his wife. When asked if the partygoer posed a threat to him or anyone else, Figueroa told investigators that the partygoer was being a jerk, the report said.

The report said Humphrey violated public contact when he repeated back a profanity that a partygoer said to him.

Both sides agreed to a simple warning for them, Roach said. Charges were ultimately dismissed on those two.

The internal affairs report painted a chaotic scene, with scores of officers descending on a Colorado Avenue home where a Halloween party was being held after a noise complaint escalated into a call for all available officers in the city to respond for backup.

Two partygoers filed complaints with the department, citing claims of excessive force and other issues during the night. An internal affairs investigation began soon after.

A sixth federal civil rights lawsuit was recently filed against city police stemming from the incident. Carmelo Mendez, one of the partygoers seen on video apparently being hit and kicked by officers while handcuffed, was granted a $342,500 settlement from his suit. Mendezs sister, Wanda Mendez, and partygoer Jose Alvarado are also receiving settlements.

Internal affairs investigators said in the report that they found violations ranging from failing to call for medical attention to excessive force.

Roach said deliberations for the remaining officers are expected to start soon.

Its just a question of getting the material organized to get committee members together, he said.

The disciplinary hearings were halted last year after the union that represents the citys police force tried to get an arbitrator to rule to have 11 of the officers removed from hearings in front of the commission. Instead, the union wanted their disciplinary actions to be handed down by the police chief.

Ultimately, a decision was reached to proceed with the police commission hearings.

The hearings were delayed earlier this year because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Roach said the commission wanted to ensure they were able to hold the hearings, which were done in closed-door executive sessions, in person because of their complexity and importance.

Sometime the commission can reach rulings quickly  like in the case of the civilian detention officers. But Roach said the extended case is different; typically, the commission is only deliberating on one officers actions.

Sometimes its just a matter of hours before were ready to make a decision, Roach said. Im not anticipating anything to be done all that quickly.

He said that the commission, understanding that the incident happened nearly three years ago at this point, also wants to try to speed things up.

Were expecting a minimum of a few evenings to go over all the transcripts and review the testimony, Roach said.

While penalties for the officers will likely differ, Roach said the commission is still deciding whether it will announce its rulings on the remaining officers as they are made, or at the end.

Once each officer has been given a ruling  unless it is agree upon by both sides  Roach said the officers have the opportunity to appeal the decision.
The accused was well-known to the family of the survivor and used to visit her house frequently. On Wednesday, he coaxed her to accompany him outside, where the incident took place, said Azamgarhs superintendent of police, Sudhir Kumar Singh.

Lucknow : An eight-year-old girl in Uttar Pradeshs Azamgarh district was allegedly raped by her 20-year-old neighbour in a village in Jiyanpur police station area on Wednesday, police said, and added that the accused has been arrested.

Singh said that the girl informed her parents after she was dropped home by the boy following which her mother filed a complaint at Jiyanpur police station. A case has been registered against the accused under relevant sections of IPC and he has been arrested.

Singh said that the girl has been sent for medical examination and further investigation in the case is on.

The incident comes when security of women in Uttar Pradesh is under spotlight following the brutal gang-rape of woman in a village in the states Hathras district two weeks ago. The woman died of her grievous injuries at a Delhi hospital on Tuesday, prompting outrage, protests and calls for justice.

Political parties and activists and rights bodies have questioned the law and order situation in the state.
Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai speaks during a session at the World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting in Davos, on January 22, 2020.

LONDON  Google said it will pay publishers around $1 billion for news over the next three years.

The pledge was announced by Google Chief Executive Sundar Pichai in a blog post on Thursday.

"I have always valued quality journalism and believed that a vibrant news industry is critical to a functioning democratic society," Pichai said.

News publishers including Rupert Murdoch's News Corp. and German media giant Axel Springer have been calling on Google to pay them for their content for almost a decade but the search giant had refused.

News Corp Chief Executive Robert Thomson said in a statement: "We applaud Google's recognition of a premium for premium journalism and the understanding that the editorial eco-system has been dysfunctional, verging on dystopian."

"There are complex negotiations ahead but the principle and the precedent are now established."

Google plans to pay publishers to create and curate content for a new mobile product called Google News Showcase, which will initially go live in Brazil and Germany before it is launched in other countries. Publishers including Der Spiegel and Die Zeit in Germany and Folha de S.Paulo in Brazil have signed up to be part of the rollout program.

"The business model for newspapers  based on ads and subscription revenue  has been evolving for more than a century as audiences have turned to other sources," Pichai said.

"The internet has been the latest shift, and it certainly won't be the last . ... We want to play our part by helping journalism in the 21st century."
Illustrative image (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi  Vietnam reported another imported COVID-19 case on October 1 morning, according to the National Steering Committee for COVID-19 Prevention and Control.

The 49-year-old Russian expert arrived at Can Tho airport on September 26 on flight QH 9495 from Russia, and he was quarantined in the Mekong Delta city of Can Tho right upon his arrival.The patient is now quarantined and treated at the Can Tho Tuberculosis and Lung Hospital.Previously, 17 cases positive for coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 were detected on the same flight, and they are being quarantined in the southern province of Bac Lieu.The total number of COVID-19 cases rose to 1,095, including 691domestically-infected cases. The death toll remained at 35.Among the positive cases, 1,010 people have been given the all-clear from the virus.There are 15,491 people who had close contact with COVID-19 patients or entered Vietnam from pandemic-hit areas are being quarantined across the country.
After signing an output deal with Netflix through Silverback Films, Sir David Attenborough features in the doco David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet.

The film, which serves as Attenboroughs witness statement for the natural world, will launch globally on Sunday October 4, 2020.

Produced by award-winning wildlife filmmakers Silverback Films and global environmental organization WWF, this unique feature documentary tells the story of life on our planet by the man who has seen more of the natural world than any other. In more than 90 years, Attenborough has visited every continent on the globe, exploring the wild places of our planet and documenting the living world in all its variety and wonder. Addressing the biggest challenges facing life on our planet, the film offers a powerful message of hope for future generations.
Afghanistan's top peace official, Abdullah Abdullah, said on September 30 that he does not expect the result of the upcoming U.S. presidential election to dramatically change the Afghan peace process or troop withdrawal plans.

President Donald Trump's administration this year brokered peace talks between the Afghan government and the insurgent Taliban to end 19 years of war, and the United States is pulling out its troops under a deal with the militant group signed in February.

The withdrawal is expected to be complete in May, subject to certain security guarantees.

Trump is currently lagging behind Democrat challenger Joe Biden in polls ahead of the November 3 election.

"Nobody can say with certainty what would be the impact of the outcome of the elections in the United States, but based on my experiences and interactions the policy will not change that much," said Abdullah, who is the senior official overseeing peace talks by the Afghan negotiating team in Doha.

"Neither Democrats nor Republicans would want to see all the gains or all the sacrifices they have made in Afghanistan in vain(or) be hurt once again from Afghanistan or because of Afghanistan," he told Reuters in an interview at the end of a three-day visit to Pakistan.

Abdullah also said that an upcoming conference in Geneva in November, at which governments will pledge financial support to bolster the peace process, would also be "one of the things in our mind" as they try to build momentum at the negotiating table.

United States special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad on September 29 flew to Doha to meet negotiators, who two diplomatic sources said have been deadlocked over setting a process for negotiations in part due to the Taliban insistence that the U.S.-Taliban agreement be used as a basis.

During his visit to Islamabad, Abdullah had met with Prime Minister Imran Khan as well as the president and foreign minister.

Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have long been rocky. Afghanistan's officials -- including Abdullah -- and its international allies have for years accused Pakistan of backing the Taliban insurgents as a way to limit the influence of old rival India in Afghanistan.

But Abdullah said he believed there had a been a change in recent years in Pakistan's approach, adding they still had influence over the Taliban leadership, though the degree was at times exaggerated.

"It was communicated to the Taliban that it was important for them, it's important to their relations with Pakistan that they sit around the negotiating table," he said, saying that had helped to break decades of the Taliban refusing to sit down for talks.

"Today, that has changed," he said. "I do consider this as an important development."
- Vice Ganda showed his deep appreciation for some of his employees in a recent episode of his vlog on YouTube

- The comedian took his bodyguards and driver to the mall to buy for them expensive shoes and slippers

- His employees were visibly happy and appreciative of Vices generous gesture towards them

- While they were shopping together, many mall-goers gathered around them and took pictures and videos of them

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Vice Ganda is not only famous for his talent and comedic skills but also for his generosity towards others.

KAMI learned that Vice showed his deep appreciation for some of his employees in a recent episode of his vlog on YouTube

In the viral video, the star took his bodyguards and driver to the mall to buy for them expensive shoes and slippers

The comedians employees were visibly happy and appreciative of his generous gesture towards them

Many mall-goers gathered around them and took pictures and videos of them while they were shopping together.

PAY ATTENTION: Shop with KAMI! The best offers and discounts on the market, product reviews and feedback

Here is the exciting vlog episode of Vice Ganda:

PAY ATTENTION: Enjoyed reading our story? Download KAMI's news app on Google Play now and stay up-to-date with major Filipino news!

Vice Ganda is a famous comedian, actor, endorser and host in the Philippines. He is best known for hosting Its Showtime and for his commercially successful movies in the MMFF. The superstar is currently in a relationship with Ion Perez.

He recently went viral during his live interview with his friend and former Its Showtime co-host, Billy Crawford. The latter cried during the interview because he has to transfer from ABS-CBN to TV5 so that he can have more projects and provide for his family.

In one of his recent vlogs, Vice Ganda also touched hearts online when he opened up about his personal issues. The Kapamilya star admitted to feeling lonely and hopeless because of the ongoing pandemic, the ABS-CBN franchise crisis, and the sudden death of his best friend.

Please like and share our amazing Facebook posts to support the KAMI team! Dont hesitate to comment and share your opinions about our stories either. We love reading about your thoughts and views on different matters!

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UPDATE: Alleged gunman arrested, jailed with 2 other teens in high school seniors slaying

Two teens are in custody on homicide charges and a third, the alleged gunman, was being sought in the shooting death of a high school senior Tuesday night in Bethlehem, authorities announced.

Aiden Toussaint, 17, of Whitehall Township, was shot and killed about 9:30 p.m. Tuesday in an apparent marijuana deal that turned into a robbery and homicide, Northampton County District Attorney Terry Houck said during an afternoon news conference in his office.

Taken into custody Wednesday on homicide and related charges were Isaac Bringuez and Christopher Nieves, both 16 and from Bethlehem, Houck said about 3:30 p.m. alongside two Bethlehem police investigators.

Wanted on homicide and related charges was Gabriel Ramos, 18, of Lehighton, in Carbon County, according to Houck. He is described in court records as standing 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing 125 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes.

Ramos is alleged to have shot Toussaint twice with a laser-sighted handgun during the incident in Bethlehems Saucon Park.

Toussaint went to the park with his 16-year-old brother and 19-year-old girlfriend, Alyssa Proctor, in a black Infiniti sedan, according to court papers laying out the allegations against Bringuez, Nieves and Ramos.

Their purpose in going there was to sell marijuana to an individual named Isaac, Houck said during the news conference inside the Northampton County Courthouse.

Bringuez had contacted Toussaint through social media to arrange the marijuana purchase and arrived at the scene with four others, intending to rob Toussaint, according to Houck and court papers. Toussaint accompanied by his brother and girlfriend was fronted a quarter-pound of marijuana, meaning hed pay his source for it later, in Whitehall Township on the way to Bethlehem, police said.

At the park, in the area of Norwood Street and Dearborn Avenue in Bethlehem, where Bringuez had told Toussaint to meet up, three male occupants of a light-colored Honda Accord got out and approached the Infiniti.

One of them was Bringuez, who stood outside the Infiniti and had brought along $700 that belonged to his grandmother, and which he took from a safe in his house in Bethlehems 1800 block of Oberly Street, court papers say.

Two of the males got into the car, identified as Ramos sitting beside Toussaints brother and Nieves sitting next to Ramos, court records say.

Toussaint handed over some of the marijuana as Nieves and Ramos were counting their money, police said, citing witnesses. A scuffle then broke out, with Toussaints brother saying he was punched in the head and that the male next to him flashed a firearm, according to police.

Bringuez told police Toussaint pulled out what was later identified as a black BB gun and that Ramos lifted a black pistol from his waistband, police said. Bringuez "recalls seeing a red laser from the pistol, court records say.

The three ran away toward the Honda with the marijuana and Toussaint gave chase, firing his BB gun at them, according to the account from Toussaints brother. A female occupant of the Honda began fighting with Toussaint, and Proctor joined in the tussle.

As she was on the ground fighting, she observed a red laser, heard a gunshot and saw Toussaint was shot, police wrote in court records. Toussaints brother reported the path of the laser cross over himself and onto Toussaint before hearing gunshots, police said.

Toussaint, limping, returned to the Infiniti and fell to the ground, in rainwater from a strong storm that moved through the area Tuesday night, police said.

Toussaints brother and girlfriend fled with him in the Infiniti and flagged down police at East Fourth Street and Lynn Avenue as officers were responding to the report of shots fired. Toussaint was then taken by St. Lukes University Hospital, Fountain Hill, where he was pronounced dead at 10:30 p.m., the Lehigh County Coroners Office said.

The death was ruled a homicide, attributed to gunshot wounds to the body. Investigators scheduled an autopsy for Thursday.

At the shooting scene, police said they recovered two .380-caliber shell casings, parts of a BB gun, blood, a folding knife, a sandwich bag of suspected marijuana and an e-cigarette. A search of the Infiniti on Wednesday turned up three medium-sized bags of suspected marijuana, according to court records.

In addition to seeking Ramos, police have the names of the other two who had come to the park with him, Bringuez and Nieves, according to Houck. The other two were not immediately charged with any crimes.

The thing about this, thats so compelling and so tragic is the fact that were talking about six individuals and every single one of them are teenagers, the district attorney said. And this is beyond tragic and beyond unacceptable for whats going on out there. And something has to give at some point.

Houck credited Bethlehem police with their nonstop investigation into the homicide, beginning Tuesday night. He was joined at the news conference by Chief Deputy District Attorney Rebecca Kulick and Bethlehem police Detective Sgt. Moses Miller and Detective Emily Falko.

Miller said police were unaware that drug-dealing is common in Saucon Park: It was just I believe an isolated incident.

Toussaint was a student at Whitehall High School, where he wrestled last year for the Zephyrs.

Bringuez and Nieves, of the 1600 block of Hastings Road, were both scheduled to be arraigned Wednesday before a district judge on charges of homicide, robbery, conspiracy and related counts. At the arraignments, bail would be set and a preliminary hearing would be scheduled to determine if there is sufficient evidence to send their cases toward trial in Northampton County Court.

Ramos faces the same charges, Houck said.

Toussaint was the second teenager shot to death in Northampton County in less than a week. Houck said there is no apparent connection to the slaying early Friday of Nikal Jones, 18, at an apartment in Wilson Borough. No one has been charged in the gunfire that left Jones dead and wounded a second man in the apartment, 30-year-old Shadee Jones.

That investigation remains active, as does the investigation into Tuesday nights homicide, Houck said.

Authorities also continue to investigate the unsolved shooting and wounding of an 11-year-old girl as she was answering the door just before midnight Sept. 9 in a home in the 1900 block of Fairland Avenue in West Bethlehem.

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Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com.
Taoiseach Micheal Martin will share his assessment of Brexit developments with other European leaders later (Julien Behal/PA)

Taoiseach Micheal Martin will share his assessment of Brexit developments with other European leaders later.

He has previously said the Irish Government was preparing its latest Budget on the basis of a no-deal Brexit.

He recently told the UK Liberal Democrats conference that he was not that optimistic of a future free trade agreement being reached between the UK and the EU.

On Thursday, Mr Martin said: I look forward to joining colleagues in Brussels this week. When we met in July, we agreed an unprecedented 1.8 trillion euros package to support Europes economic recovery.

If we are to see the full benefit of that package, we need to maximise the potential of the Single Market, including building our collective digital capacity, economic resilience and competitiveness.

This is all the more important in the context of the economic disruption of both Covid-19 and Brexit.

His spokesman said he would update fellow EU state leaders with his thoughts on Brexit developments.

He travels to Brussels to attend a special meeting of the European Council on Thursday.

The Taoiseach will hold a bilateral meeting with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and attend the Renew Europe working lunch with other EU leaders ahead of the Council summit.

Participants will discuss how to deepen and strengthen the Single Market as a key tool to drive Europes economic recovery.

It will also consider how to improve the competitiveness of European industry.

Mr Martins spokesperson said: The European Council will be briefed on the latest state of play in the Brexit negotiations which are continuing this week, and the Taoiseach will take the opportunity to share his assessment of recent developments with fellow leaders.
Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap reached Versova police station Thursday morning to record his statement in connection with the alleged sexual assault case filed by a 30-year-old actor. On Tuesday, Mumbai police had asked Kashyap to be present at the police station to join the probe.

Kashyap reached Versova police station with his advocate at around 10am. Police personnel were deployed outside the police station. After Kashyaps car entered the police stations premises, officials closed the police stations gate and only those called in by police or there to register a complaint were allowed entry. Meanwhile, Versova police officials have taken the woman actor, the complainant in the case, to Cooper hospital for her medical examination.

On September 22, Mumbai Police had filed a first information report (FIR) against Kashyap after the complainant had accused him of sexual misconduct in 2013.

The complainant stated in her FIR that Kashyap had called her to his flat on Yari road in Andheri (West) in August 2013 to have a discussion about casting her in one of his upcoming films. Kashyap had allegedly sexually assaulted her there.

She filed a case against Kashyap under sections 376 (I) (rape), 354 (assault or criminal force to woman with an intent to outrage her modesty), 341 (wrongful restraint) and 342 (wrongful confinement) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) at Versova police station on September 22.

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MORRISBURG  Area residents may have one less outdoor recreation space this fall as it is uncertain if the Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary will open.

Access to the bird sanctuary has been closed since the COVID-19 pandemic began. The St. Lawrence Parks Commission, which owns the 9,000 hectare preserve, did not open the bird sanctuary this spring or summer citing safety issues on some of the boardwalk areas of the trails.

At that time, the SLPC said that there was damage caused by spring flooding.

The Parks of the St. Lawrence team is currently assessing the trails at the UCMBS to determine if they are in safe condition to open to the public this fall, said SLPC spokesperson Krista Doyle. At this time, the boardwalk remains unusable.

In addition to the boardwalk issues, Doyle explained that a partial reopening of the trails so far has not occurred due to the spring and summer closure, which has resulted in trails being overgrown or made impassable due to fallen trees. Our staff have been working diligently to assess, prepare and reopen the trails, she said adding that if the bird sanctuary is in a position to open this fall, washroom facilities would remain closed.

In past years, the Friends of the Sanctuary have offered winter recreation programming including cross-country ski rentals at the preserve.

Doyle said that the SLPC is working with the Friends of the Sanctuary as they plan for the winter. Our team is working closely with them as they are diligently planning for winter programming that takes place between January and March, she said.

The SLPC received an injection of $7.1 million from the provincial government in early July to help with costs associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Before the pandemic, access to the preserve was unrestricted, even during off-season times of the year. Vehicular access to the preserve has been closed since March, however cyclists can still access the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail through the preserve.
ST. LOUIS  An interfaith webinar series titled Immigration and the 2020 Election: Education and Action for People of Faith" was halted after the first presentation by the Archdiocese of St. Louis, highlighting divisions over Catholic moral teachings  both within the Church and regarding its role in the upcoming presidential election.

Former Springfield Bishop Mitchell Rozanski made global headlines when he was installed as St. Louis archbishop in August and called for Catholics there to be gateways, not gatekeepers in their interactions with others.

However, whether in content, delivery or presenters, the three-part series with its social justice emphasis around barriers faced by immigrants was viewed as partisan by the archdiocese, said to be presented without its knowledge and to not be an accurate presentation in helping Catholics form their conscience as faithful citizens.

According to a post on the website of the archdiocesan newspaper, Rozanski put the individual responsible for overseeing the series, a Catholic lawyer who long worked for the archdiocese providing pro-bono legal aid to the low income and now heads its Peace and Justice Commission, on administrative leave. Rozanski also ordered the removal of a related Facebook page and said all social media postings related to archdiocesan ministries are to be reviewed.

The Sept. 15 presentation on asylum and refugee resettlement included a Caribbean-born Episcopal bishop who is raising two children with his husband; a Catholic-educated immigration lawyer; the vice president for policy and advocacy for the Maryland-based Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society, whose work includes refugee resettlement; the director of civic engagement for the St.-Louis based Jewish Council for Public Affairs and the executive director of the St. Louis Inter-faith Committee on Latin America who is a member of the task force under the Peace and Justice Commission that helped organize the event.

Presenters interviewed in the press said the presentation was not about an endorsement of candidates, and organizers said it followed Catholic teaching on social justice issues.

Divisions among Catholics at election times are usually about how Church teachings are informing their vote.

In what they called a reflection on faithful citizenship, U.S. Catholic bishops have said that while they do not intend to tell Catholics for whom or against whom to vote, Catholics are called to promote the well-being of all, to share our blessings with those most in need, to defend marriage, and to protect the lives and dignity of all, especially the weak, the vulnerable, the voiceless.

Related:
Nissan has announced a realignment of its global regions, to drive through the next phase of the Nissan NEXT global transformation plan in the newly created AMIEO region ( Africa, Middle East, India, Europe (including Russia) and Oceania).



Globally, seven geographic regions will become four - Japan and ASEAN, the Americas, China, and the new AMIEO region.



AMEIO will cover more than 140 markets with a population of around 3.8 billion, with 45 Nissan products on sale ranging from the iconic Nissan Patrol SUV to the all-electric Nissan LEAF. The new region will enable faster decision-making and create a more flexible working model across a number of markets where Nissan is electrifying its model range.



Gianluca de Ficchy, currently Chairman of Nissan Europe, will be Chairman of the new region. Guillaume Cartier, currently Chairman of the AMI region, will become President of AMI and Vice-Chair of the new region, responsible for marketing & sales.



The AMIEO region and management team will take effect from October 1st, with full implementation of the new region to begin following consultation with employee representatives in Europe.



This realignment and reorientation will help us to be more competitive, improving the quality and speed of our operations and allowing us to deploy the latest technologies more consistently and more quickly to our customers, said De Ficchy.



The increased scale and scope of this new region will align the business better to meet the challenges we are facing across the automotive industry. This will mean a positive shift in the way we operate and cooperate across the globe, in order to ensure the future success of the business.



Management of the Manufacturing, R&D, Planning, Administration and Finance functions will from October 1 cover Europe, Africa, Middle East, India and Oceania, with Sales and Marketing teams to continue to be focused on specific geographies, to ensure Nissan products and services remain optimized for customers across all markets.



Through Nissan NEXT we are transforming the company into a leaner, more agile and profit-focused organization. As always, our people will be the driving force behind our future success and Im looking forward to bringing such a diverse and talented group of people together, added Cartier.



The increased scale and scope of the regional organization will help us to accelerate the roll out of innovations in our vehicles to customers across the new region, and to leverage our strengths across multiple segments to improve business performance.

AMIEO - Facts and figures



 Geographical scope of Africa, Middle East, India, Europe (including Russia) and Oceania, covering more than 140 markets

 Population of around 3.8 billion people

 29 million vehicles sold in 2019, representing more than 30% of global vehicle sales

 820,000 Nissan, Datsun and Infiniti sales in 2019

 Plants in 3 continents

 Key Nissan models include Qashqai, Navara, Patrol and LEAF  TradeArabia News Service
Teachers who are not considered high risk  or do not live with someone who is  but still want to be considered for all-virtual learning would be considered for remote work on a first-come, first-served basis of completing and submitting the survey. School staff members who fail to complete the survey by Monday afternoon would automatically be considered available for in-person teaching, the letter from school system said.
"For generations, art has inspired conversation of issues and hope for change. Fairtrade America is proud to commission murals that celebrate the men and women who work hard to produce staple goods we enjoy," said Peg Willingham, executive director, Fairtrade America. "We hope this campaign connects the dots between the choices we have as consumers to purchase Fairtrade certified products and the differences made in the lives of people who produce and grow our food, and our planet. Fairtrade envisions a world in which all producers can enjoy secure and sustainable livelihoods, fulfill their potential and decide on their future."

Fairtrade is an alternative approach to trade based on partnership instead of exploitation, a partnership between those who grow our food and we who consume it. The producers featured in murals represent millions of farmers in the Fairtrade system who receive fair compensation for their goods and assistance producing them in compliance with gender equality, climate change and child labor standards. Fairtrade's unique model includes a Premium fund that farming cooperatives receive on top of the price of the product. Co-op members vote to determine how the money is spent, typically on community programs such as access to education or healthcare. In 2019, the Fairtrade Premium paid more than $208M to Fairtrade farming communities.

About the 'Choose Fairtrade: Choose the World You Want' Murals

Natividad Vallejos Mural, by Giovannie "Just" Dixon, located at the East Evans Avenue Kaladi Coffee Roasters, Denver

In Denver, Fairtrade America partnered with Kaladi Coffee Roasters, a coffee brand dedicated to sourcing the highest quality Fairtrade coffee beans from farmers who demonstrate sustainable growing practices and respect workers rights, to depict its mural. The local mural artist Giovannie "Just" Dixon, portrayed Natividad Vallejos, who has been a Fairtrade certified coffee farmer for 15 years. She and her fellow farmers have collectively invested in community projects, such as children's libraries, schools, health and nutritional education, and programs that build self-esteem, human rights awareness, and literacy. Giovannie hopes the mural will help to raise the voices of women and elevate the importance of gender equality.

Segundo Alejandro Guerrero Mondragon Mural, by Levi Ponce, located at the Sunset Boulevard Lassens Natural Foods & Vitamins, Los Angeles

Fairtrade America joined with Lassens, a local institution in Los Angeles known for high quality, ethically sourced food. Local mural artist Levi Ponce honored Fairtrade coffee farmer Alejandro Guerrero in the mural. Alejandro has been a Fairtrade farmer for 27 years and recognizes Fairtrade's important role in maintaining a fair price for his coffee beans in critical times. The current price of coffee has been at a historically low level. In comparison, Fairtrade coffee offers a higher price when markets are low, allowing farmers to farm sustainably. Levi's mural is intended to build a bridge between farmers and consumers, highlighting the connection to the workers who grow our food.

Rosine Bekoin Mural, by Tarabella Aversa, located at the Charlotte Avenue Turnip Truck, Nashville

The Nashville mural is located at Turnip Truck, Music City's only full-service, locally owned natural foods grocer. Local mural artist Tarabella Aversa captured African farmer Rosine Bekoin's strength as an independently employed woman. Rosine owns and operates the cocoa farm she inherited from her mother, an unusual circumstance in Cote d'Ivoire where men usually run farms. As secretary of her cooperative's Women's Society and a graduate of the Fairtrade Africa Women's School of Leadership, Rosine believes women are central to eliminating poverty in communities.

Fairtrade's local retail partners donated wall space for the murals because of a shared passion for ensuring producers are paid fairly for their crops, as well as the other socioeconomic and environmental benefits of Fairtrade. During Fair Trade Month, each store will offer special promotions on Fairtrade certified goods. The acclaimed mural artists commissioned to create the murals are all committed to cause-based art.

Fairtrade Areas of Impact

Farming is the single largest employer in the world -- two out of every five people farm. Purchasing goods with the Fairtrade America logo is an easy way to make a difference in the lives of people who grow our food. The Choose Fairtrade: Choose the World You Want campaign highlights a couple of Fairtrade's key areas of impact : fighting poverty and promoting gender equality. Fairtrade's work also impacts ending child labor, combating climate change, and supporting workers' rights.

Fighting Poverty: The Los Angeles mural emphasizes Fairtrade's commitment to fighting poverty. Many farmers and workers around the world live on less than $2 per day. Fairtrade breaks down the systems that trap producers in cycles of poverty. The Fairtrade Minimum Price acts as a safety net when prices fall below a sustainable level. Fairtrade producers also earn the additional Fairtrade Premium to reinvest in the organization or community initiatives.





mural emphasizes Fairtrade's commitment to fighting poverty. Many farmers and workers around the world live on less than per day. Fairtrade breaks down the systems that trap producers in cycles of poverty. The Fairtrade Minimum Price acts as a safety net when prices fall below a sustainable level. Fairtrade producers also earn the additional Fairtrade Premium to reinvest in the organization or community initiatives. Gender Equality: The Denver and Nashville murals are themed around Fairtrade's focus on promoting gender equality. An estimated 60-80% of the world's food is produced by women, yet gender inequality remains prevalent in farming communities worldwide. Fairtrade America tackles unequal power relationships by strengthening women's and girls' human, social, financial and physical capital. Because the Fairtrade standards require all cooperative members to vote on how to use their Premium funds, female Fairtrade producers often have a greater voice in their communities.

In addition to the murals, Fairtrade will offer 20 giveaways in October. Follow @fairtrademarkus on Instagram and visit choosefairtrade.org to learn more and participate in Fairtrade certified product giveaways. The prize pack includes one mural art print of the winners' choosing, a bag of Kaladi's Peru Andes Gold coffee (sourced from Vallejos' cooperative), a Fairtrade tote bag, and a gift card to spend at a local grocer. Winner selection is randomized.

"When consumers look for and choose to buy Fairtrade products, they are helping to empower farmers and workers, enabling them to strengthen their communities," continued Willingham.

About Fairtrade America

Fairtrade America betters the lives of farmers and workers in developing countries by inspiring businesses to implement ethical production practices and assisting shoppers in making informed purchasing decisions. Fairtrade America is the US chapter of Fairtrade International, the original and global leader in fair trade certification with over 30 years of experience working to make trade fair, with headquarters in more than 30 countries across the globe. A non-profit 501(c)3 organization, Fairtrade America is the world's largest and most recognized fair trade systempart of a global movement for change. Learn more at www.fairtradeamerica.org , and by connecting with Fairtrade America on Instagram and LinkedIn .

About Kaladi Coffee Roasters

Founded by coffee aficionados Mark Overly and Andrew Melnick, Kaladi Coffee Roasters is dedicated to sourcing the highest quality Fairtrade coffee beans from farmers who demonstrate sustainable growing practices and respect workers' rights to produce premium specialty coffee. For twenty years, Kaladi Coffee Roasters has been a place of community for Denverites, fostering an inclusive, welcoming environment that celebrates the art and skill of producing the best coffee imaginable.

About Lassens Natural Foods & Vitamins

Oda Lassen founded Lassens Natural Foods & Vitamins in 1971 to provide her community with wholesome, low-processed, and additive-free foods and supplements. Over 40 years and ten stores later, Oda's family and the dedicated Lassen's team continues to fulfill her original commitment to 100% organic produce and uncomplicated, wholesome, good-for-you products.

About Turnip Truck

Established in 2001, Turnip Truck is Nashville's only full-service, locally owned natural foods grocer. With three stores in the heart of Music City, Turnip Truck offers the highest quality local and organic foods available. For nearly two decades, founder/owner John Dyke and team have been committed to supporting area farmers and producers, in turn nurturing the future of the food supply.

SOURCE Fairtrade America

Related Links

http://www.fairtradeamerica.org


A man convicted of robbing a bank in Hanoi with a gun in late April has been sentenced to 23 years behind bars.

The Hanoi Peoples Court on Wednesday condemned Tran Huu Trung, a 29-year-old from the northern province of Quang Ninh, to 18 years in jail for robbery and an additional five years for illegally storing and using military weapons.

Giap Ngoc Ninh, 27, and Chu Duc Chinh, 17, were jailed for 24 months and nine months, respectively, for concealing the crime.

According to the indictment, Trung was given a 30-month suspended sentence for assault in Uong Bi City, Quang Ninh Province in 2009.

In 2016, he committed the same offense and was sentenced to seven years in prison.

However, he managed to escape and was wanted by Uong Bi police officers.

While hiding, Trung borrowed VND545 million (US$23,500) from N.A.T. in Quang Ninh Province and VND270 million ($11,600) from H.Q.T. in northern Bac Ninh Province for personal use.

The man then planned the bank robbery to pay up his debts.

At 1:21 pm on April 20, Trung carried a K59 pistol and rode a motorbike from Bac Ninh Province to Soc Son District in Hanoi, where he robbed a branch of local lender Techcombank.

Prior to the heist, Trung changed a different license plate for his motorcycle to avoid being tracked by police.

At 3:10 pm the same day, Trung put on a cap, a face mask, a jacket, sunglasses, and gloves before heading to a counter inside the bank.

He pretended to talk to an attendant before leaving the place.

About five minutes later, he walked back into the venue and pulled out his gun to threaten two bank tellers, forcing them to give him cash.

Trung fired a warning shot to the floor, when one of the employees sounded the alarm.

The robber ran outside to his motorbike before firing another shot into the bank to deter anyone wanting to chase after him.

He arrived in Hoa Phu Industrial Park in Bac Giang Province, about 25 kilometers from Soc Son District, where he called Ninh and Chinh and told them about the robbery.

Trung changed the license plate once again and threw away his clothing.

Chinh took Trungs motorbike to his home, while Ninh carried him to Viet Yen District in Bac Giang.

Trung then threw his pistol into Dai Lai Lake in northern Vinh Phuc Province and headed to northern Hai Phong City.

He then returned to his hometown  Quang Ninh Province, and turned himself in to police on April 26.

The jury stated that Trungs actions were highly dangerous and a stern punishment had to be imposed.

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The third meeting of the Educators Rank-and-File Safety Committee watched a video showing the mass protests by students in Greece, as an introduction to a report by WSWS writer John Vassilopoulos.

He explained to last Saturdays meeting that the opening of schools on September 14 had been a complete disaster.

By the end of this week, over 100 schools will be closed due to COVID infections, which has caused a massive backlash in Greece's student body.

Over 200 schools had been occupied, double the number it was at the start of the week [This has now grown to over 700]. Students demands included a class limit of 15 pupils, hiring teachers on permanent contracts rather than 3-month contracts, as well as employing additional cleaning staff.

Rallies had been held all over the country. In Athens, thousands had marched through the city centre.

A banner on a school fence with some of the demands of the occupying students. It reads: No more than 15 students per class, Give money to education, We are not expendable! (Credit: Pantelis Paspals/Facebook)

Vassilopoulos drew attention to a series of strikes by dock workers at the port of Pireaus, and by doctors, as well as workers at Athens airport. Many of the occupations had also protested against the governments decision to buy 16 warplanes from France at a cost of 4 billion, at a time of rising tensions with Turkey. Greece had consistently spent large amounts on defence-even throughout the last decade of European Union/International Monetary Fund backed austerity, while its education budget has been slashed 27 percent since 2009.

Faced with mounting protests and strikes, the conservative New Democracy government was resorting to authoritarian measures and had already passed a bill this summer severely restricting the right to protest, There were incidents reported of police intimidation of students in some occupied schools in the country, Vassilopoulos said.

The Greek government was following the same herd-immunity policy of allowing the virus to rip through the population as others worldwide. In a recent speech to the nation, Prime Minister Mitsotakis had said schools should be the last and not the first to close in a new upsurge of the pandemic. This underscores how crucial the opening of schools is in kickstarting the economy from the ruling elites perspective.

Vassilopoulos recalled interviewing, for the World Socialist Web Site, Evgenia Thanou, General Manager of the NGO Doctors of the World in Athens, at the start of 2015. She had told how the EU-imposed austerity measures meant, If there was an epidemic outbreak in Greece, it would have a massive impact and unfortunately, we dont know what we would be able to do and how it would be tackled.

After a decade of austerity, where the country had been used as a testing ground by the European Union and the IMF for the implementation of an unprecedented slashing of working and living conditions, conditions would only worsen under the onslaught of the COVID-19 crisis.

Tania Kent, a special needs teacher and leading member of the Socialist Equality Party, drew attention to a statement published on the WSWS Thursday, calling on workers throughout Europe to take independent action against the rapidly escalating infection rates on the continent.

It is urgent to mobilize the working class across Europe and internationally in a general strike to halt the ongoing resurgence of COVID-19, she said quoting the statement.

In Britain there had been a massive surge in coronavirus outbreaks in education establishments, with over 2,000 schools recording infections. In just a short three weeks, the lie that schools were ever COVID secure has been shattered. This week, almost one in five positive tests in England were in the under-19 age group.

Educational settings now accounted for 45 percent of all positive cases. Roughly 900 schools had sent pupils home, with over a million children having been off school.

Committee for Public Education protest in support of Julian Assange and Chelsea Manning in Melbourne, February 2020 (Credit: WSWS)

From Melbourne, teacher and member of the Committee for Public Education, Will Marshall said, In Australia, 26,983 people have contracted the virus, with 861 deaths.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison, like Boris Johnson, claimed that education was a moral duty of teachers, although only a short time ago, Morrison was involved in slashing funding to public schools by $1.9 billion in 2018 and 2019.

This ruthless return to work policy was being met with growing resistance by educators, parents, students. Motions were passed at various schools across Australia insisting on closures to halt the spread of COVID-19 and angry responses to the teachers union were posted on its Facebook Page as teachers accused the union of merely being a copy-and-paste receptacle for the state government.

At my school, more than half the staff voted overwhelmingly in support of the immediate formation of a workplace Action Committee, independent of the union.

When members of the Committee for Public Education challenged Victoria union president Meredith Peace why the union had agreed to a return to work while there were still outbreaks of coronavirus occurring, her reply had been, Sorry we dont run the government, we dont get to make the decisions, we dont get the opportunity to agree or disagree with the chief medical officer.

In discussion, John asked, How would a socialist government in a planned economy educate children in a pandemic like this?... The state would have to introduce effective distance learning channels and make sure that children did not avoid the system. But the health crisis would probably not be as severe as it is today, with better and earlier planning actually based on current scientific knowledge about viruses

Elena, from Dinnington in South Yorkshire, commented, Government figures show almost half of COVID cases were in educational settings. Thats just up to September 20 and before universities opened. Herd immunity in practice. This is a really important initiative.

Masala commented, Here in Argentina, were going through a similar path to Greece. There are many strikes among workers but our unions are pro government so there is no single strike to unify the different struggles. Luckily for us, the government could not pass the legislation to reopen the schools.

Two weeks ago, the government raised the salaries of the police in Buenos Aires. This week, nurses asked for a rise and they got beat up by the police.

In schools in Germany, a calculated catastrophe is on its way, trainee secondary school teacher Phillip Frisch said. Since the unrestricted opening of all schools as well as the wider economy, infections among adolescents and young adults have risen sharply. In North Rhine-Westphalia, 7,000 pupils and 580 teachers are in quarantine. In Bavaria, 8,800 students and 771 teachers must stay at home. In the state of Hesse, the Ministry of Education reported that over 4,700 pupils and 480 teachers were in quarantine at the end of last week.

Nurse Rory told the meeting about the comments of a frontline nurse from London, who said, The thought of a second peak is terrifyingI am worried about my whole team. I saw how emotionally and physically draining it was the first time. Im not sure they would be able to cope We must do everything we can to avoid a second wave.

More than 650 health and social care workers had already died of COVID-19 in the UK, which had the highest death toll among health and social care workers in the world. None of the unsafe government guidelines on PPE had changed regardless of extremely high fatalities. We still have to wear flimsy aprons that dont cover our arms or uniform, and a simple face mask and gloves, even if patients are tested positive for COVID-19.

The governments own advisors, earlier this week, had said that by mid-October, there could be 7.5 times more cases a day than today. How many more will end up in hospitals? How many more will be on ventilators? Yesterday, [September 25] there were 40 reported deaths. How many more deaths will occur by 3 weeks time? How many more health and care workers will lose their lives while trying to save others?

Graduate teaching assistant Frankie related his experience of the current preparations at the universities to force students and staff back into the classroom. Teaching work had been moved online at the end of the previous academic year, because we didn't believe that it was safe to have individual conversations in close contact with a class of students.

Despite this, the universityunder pressure from both the government and its own need to maintain its revenueis insisting that all departments must run a programme of blended learning, running in-person classes whether or not it is safe.

Students, and GTAs (graduate teaching assistants) had been told by the university that if they did not feel safe returning to classrooms, they would be given the option of online teaching and learning. However, in practise this option is unavailable to many.

The University and College Union (UCU) had done nothing to ensure students and staff were safe. The new left leadership of the UCU had been exactly as dishonest and feckless as the previous one, a clear sign that this rotten organisation could not be reformed and made to fight for staff safety by any amount of pressure from below.
California Attorney General Xavier Becerra View Photo

On Tuesday, California Attorney General Xavier Becerra and Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence led a coalition in filing a lawsuit against the Trump Administration demanding the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) correct its interpretation of what qualifies as a firearm.

Becerra was Thursdays KVML Newsmaker of the Day.

The coalition also includes Bryan Muehlberger and Frank Blackwell, the fathers of Gracie Anne Muehlberger and Dominic Blackwell, respectively, who were tragically murdered in the November 2019 Saugus High School Shooting in Santa Clarita that involved a ghost gun. ATF maintains that the unfinished pistol frames and rifle receivers used to make untraceable ghost guns are not subject to the same regulations as other firearms. The lawsuit asks the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California to vacate these determinations and direct ATF to classify so-called 80 percent frames and receivers as firearms subject to federal firearms statutes and regulations.

Ghost guns are untraceable weapons that have been used in mass shootings throughout the country and right here in California  from Santa Monica in 2013, to Tehama County in 2017, and at Saugus High School just last year, said Attorney General Becerra. We cant afford to wait for another tragedy to happen before we take action. Its time for ATF to prioritize the safety of our communities by calling these products what they are: firearms, and regulating them accordingly.

If you can assemble Ikea furniture, you can definitely build a ghost gun, said Hannah Shearer, Giffords Law Center Litigation Director. And youll probably be able to do it faster: there are kits and tools that let you assemble a ghost gun in under 15 minutes. Yet for no reason at all, the parts used to build ghost guns arent treated as firearms under federal law. The effects of ATFs mis-classification of ghost guns are real and they are devastating. We demand accountability for the industry actors who are enabling gun violence to line their pockets. And we demand justice for Gracie Anne Muehlberger, Dominic Blackwell, and others tragically killed by ghost guns.

Ghost gun kits, which commonly contain unfinished frames and receivers, can be sold by unlicensed sellers and later made into untraceable firearms at home. They contain the components of a nearly complete firearm that can be manufactured and then assembled in minutes into a fully functional weapon. Buyers of these kits do not have to undergo a background check, and the resulting firearm is ultimately untraceable because in most states they are not required to have a serial number. California law mandates that anyone who possesses, manufactures, or assembles lawful firearms in the state apply to the California Department of Justice for a unique serial number for each of their self-made firearms.

According to ATF, these unfinished frames and receivers, also referred to by the misnomer 80 percent receivers and frames are not guns, and therefore not subject to regulation because they have not reached the stage in the manufacturing process that would qualify them as firearms. ATF currently allows sales of these unfinished frames and receivers to go unchecked despite having the authority under the Gun Control Act to regulate them.

In todays lawsuit, the coalition argues ATF violated the Administrative Procedure Act in relation to its policies on ghost guns for the following reasons:

ATFs determinations are not in accordance with law because they disregard the Gun Control Act, which refers to a firearm as any weapon designed or easily converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive, including the frame or receiver of any such weapon; and ATFs position change on ghost guns without reason was arbitrary and capricious. Previously, ATF considered unfinished frames and receivers that are identical to the 80 percent receivers and frames on the market today as equivalent to finished frames and receivers, and therefore subject to regulation by the Gun Control Act.

The Newsmaker of the Day is heard every weekday morning at ;45, 7:45 and 8:45 on AM 1450 KVML.


WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - After moving to the downside early in the session, treasuries regained ground over the course of the trading day on Thursday.



Bond prices climbed well off their early lows before ending the day roughly flat. Subsequently, the yield on the benchmark ten-year note, which moves opposite of its price, closed unchanged at 0.677 percent.



The flat close by treasuries came ahead of the release of the Labor Department's closely watched monthly jobs report on Friday.



Economists expect employment to increase by about 850,000 jobs in September after jumping by 1.371 million jobs in August. The unemployment rate is expected to edge down to 8.2 percent from 8.4 percent.



Ahead of the monthly report, the Labor Department released a report this morning showing a bigger than expected drop in first-time claims for U.S. unemployment benefits in the week ended September 26th.



The report said initial jobless claims fell to 837,000, a decrease of 36,000 from the previous week's revised level of 873,000.



Economists had expected jobless claims to dip to 850,000 from the 870,000 originally reported for the previous week.



Meanwhile, the Commerce Department released a separate report showing a steep drop in U.S. personal income in the month of August, with the sharp pullback reflecting a decrease in unemployment insurance benefits.



The Commerce Department said personal income tumbled by 2.7 percent in August after rising by an upwardly revised 0.5 percent in July.



Economists had expected personal income to slump by 2.5 percent compared to the 0.4 percent increase originally reported for the previous month.



At the same time, the report said personal spending climbed by 1.0 percent in August after jumping by a downwardly revised 1.5 percent in July.



Personal spending was expected to increase by 0.8 percent compared to the 1.9 percent spike originally reported for the previous month.



The Institute for Supply Management also released a report unexpectedly showing a modest slowdown in the pace of growth in manufacturing activity in the month of September.



The ISM said its purchasing managers index edged down to 55.4 in September after rising to 56.0 in August. While a reading above 50 still indicates growth in the manufacturing sector, economists had expected the index to inch up to 56.3.



The monthly jobs report is likely to be in the spotlight on Friday, overshadowing separate reports on consumer sentiment and factory orders.



Traders may also keep an eye on the latest developments in Washington, as lawmakers attempt to reach an agreement on a new coronavirus stimulus bill.



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Kostenloser Wertpapierhandel auf Smartbroker.de
"I am delighted to welcome Leslie to the team," said Mr. Yalof. "She is a proven team builder, revenue generator and thought leader. We look forward to benefiting from her experience in delivering top-line results and operational efficiencies while inspiring and empowering the teams she leads."

"I have always admired the Tanger brand and its leading position in the outlet industry," said Ms. Swanson. "I am excited to join the organization to help continue to build on Tanger's excellent platform. I believe there is a tremendous opportunity to realize additional growth and efficiencies."

Swanson brings over 25 years of experience in shopping center operations, management and marketing. Prior to joining Tanger, she served as Executive Vice President of Property Management for Simon Premium Outlets where she oversaw eight straight years of NOI growth and added 12 new and 15 expanded centers to that portfolio over the same period. She is a graduate of Illinois State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts and Science degree in Public Relations and Organizational Communication Psychology.

About Tanger Factory Outlet Centers, Inc.

Tanger Factory Outlet Centers, Inc. (NYSE: SKT), is a publicly-traded REIT headquartered in Greensboro, North Carolina that presently operates and owns, or has an ownership interest in, a portfolio of 38 upscale outlet shopping centers. Tanger's operating properties are located in 20 states and in Canada, totaling approximately 14.1 million square feet, leased to over 2,700 stores which are operated by more than 500 different brand name companies. The Company has more than 39 years of experience in the outlet industry. For more information on Tanger Outlet Centers, call 1-800-4TANGER or visit the Company's website at www.tangeroutlets.com.

Media Contact Information

Quentin Pell

VP, Corporate Communications and Enterprise Risk Management

336-834-6827

[email protected]

SOURCE Tanger Factory Outlet Centers, Inc.

Related Links

www.tangeroutlet.com


Mainstream Technologies is pleased to announce the hiring of Elijah Chambers as cybersecurity apprentice. His responsibilities will be dedicated to vulnerability management, which involves scanning for potential cyber risks and providing remediation and/or alerting clients on next steps.

Elijah is a graduate of Central High School where he also participated in the Little Rock School District (LRSD) Excel Program, allowing him to intern at Mainstream for 1  years while taking class. Elijahs transition from high school to Mainstream Technologies is an example of what can happen when business and industry partners team up with educators to connect students with high wage, high skilled career opportunities. Im so proud of Elijah and I am looking forward to following his career in cybersecurity, said Shameka Montgomery, Director of Career & Adult Education with LRSD.

"The Arkansas Center for Data Sciences (ACDS) and it's training partner, the American Cyber Alliance, have established this cybersecurity apprenticeship program to support the needs of companies like Mainstream Technologies. The goal is to provide skill development and support for processes to connect new talent, like Elijah Chambers, to the ever-growing demand for cyber skills using a proven apprenticeship model," according to Lonnie Emard, Apprenticeship Director of ACDS.

Daniel Weatherly, Mainstreams Director of Cybersecurity adds: I am excited to have Elijah transition to a full-time employee for our security unit. The knowledge he gained while interning at Mainstream will allow him to contribute right away.

ABOUT MAINSTREAM

Since 1996, Mainstream (http://www.mainstream-tech.com) has evolved into one of the most established IT services companies in the Mid-South, serving clients from its Arkansas locations including headquarters in Little Rock, a second operations facility in Conway, as well as a sales office in Bentonville. Their staff of information technology professionals serves business and government customers across the nation with Managed IT Services, Custom Software Development Services, Cyber Security Services, and Hosting.
ZURICH, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Chubb Limited (NYSE: CB) will hold its third quarter earnings conference call on Wednesday, October 28, 2020, beginning at 8:30 a.m. Eastern.

The company expects to issue its third quarter earnings release and financial supplement after the market closes on Tuesday, October 27, 2020. These documents will be available on the company's investor website at investors.chubb.com.

The earnings conference call will be available via live webcast at investors.chubb.com or by dialing 800-458-4148 (within the United States) or 323-794-2597 (international), passcode 2361321. Please refer to the Chubb website under Events and Presentations for details. A replay of the call will be available until Wednesday, November 11, 2020, and the archived webcast will be available on our website for approximately one month. To listen to the replay, please click here to register and receive dial-in numbers.

About Chubb

Chubb is the world's largest publicly traded property and casualty insurance company. With operations in 54 countries and territories, Chubb provides commercial and personal property and casualty insurance, personal accident and supplemental health insurance, reinsurance and life insurance to a diverse group of clients. As an underwriting company, we assess, assume and manage risk with insight and discipline. We service and pay our claims fairly and promptly. The company is also defined by its extensive product and service offerings, broad distribution capabilities, exceptional financial strength and local operations globally. Parent company Chubb Limited is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: CB) and is a component of the S&P 500 index. Chubb maintains executive offices in Zurich, New York, London, Paris and other locations, and employs approximately 33,000 people worldwide. Additional information can be found at: www.chubb.com.

SOURCE Chubb Limited

Related Links

http://new.chubb.com


Dhaka, Oct 1 : Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday stressed the need for urgent action to conserve biodiversity and warned that human beings were moving towards ultimate extinction if current actions continue to be unchecked, it was reported on Thursday.

She made the remarks while proposing a four-point action plan to protect the planet and safeguard biodiversity for sustainable development at a UN leaders' dialogue, reports bdnews24.

"We live in an inter-dependent world where every species on planet earth has a specific role to play in our ecosystem. However, according to the WWF and the Zoological Society of London, the world's wildlife populations have fallen by an average of 68 per cent just from 1970 to 2016," she said.

"Bangladesh is heavily dependent on freshwater and freshwater biodiversity is declining at the fastest rate in the world with 85 per cent of global wetlands have already been lost since the Industrial Revolution." In her remarks, she reiterated Bangladesh's commitment to the notion of "urgent action on biodiversity for sustainable development".

In order to protect the planet, the premier called on world leaders to focus on future sustainability while safeguarding biodiversity by creating greater public awareness through the education system and research as well as by strengthening national legislation and monitoring mechanisms.

The goals of the Paris climate accord must be implemented as it could prove to be "the difference between human extinction and survival", bdnews24 quoted the Prime Minister as further saying in her address.

"Our Parliament passed Bangladesh Biological Diversity Act 2017 aimed at preserving biodiversity. We have declared more than 5 per cent of the total terrestrial area and about 5 per cent of the marine area as Protected and Ecologically Critical Areas," she added.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
(TNS)  Los Angeles schools Supt. Austin Beutner had a problem. He was firm in his stance that reopening schools safely during the COVID-19 pandemic would depend on rapid, extensive coronavirus testing. But no city, county or state program was available to provide or pay for it at the scale he thinks is needed in the nation's second-largest school district.So he chose the company of a former business partner, Sky Dayton, who helped him put together an audacious plan: The Los Angeles Unified School District would carry out its own testing, the largest such district-led initiative in the country.Beutner approved a $48.9-million contract with Dayton's new company, SummerBio, using emergency powers he has invoked since March because of the pandemic.The district's regular, often lengthy procurement process typically involves a formal request for proposals and traditional competitive bidding. But at the start of the pandemic, the Los Angeles school board set aside customary guardrails to give Beutner the ability to act quickly  powers he has exercised repeatedly, including in efforts to distribute meals and purchase computers and Wi-Fi hot spots.This effort could end up being a major test of whether Beutner  whose background is in business rather than education  can deliver results to the sprawling district.Dayton, the founder of EarthLink and Boingo, made a fortune in technology start-ups. But his background for medical testing is thinner. Nonetheless, Dayton reached out to Beutner in May, the schools chief said, pledging to deliver machine-automated coronavirus testing that would drastically drive down the cost."We have to do something different because the [other] choice for us was to say, 'All right, I'll wait for someone else to do it,'" Beutner said Wednesday. "That wasn't happening.""We knew they were building a real company," Beutner said. "Part of our due diligence was to understand who would be in charge," he said, referring to Dayton and Guido Baechler, who was named SummerBio's chief executive in August but was associated with the project earlier. Baechler formerly ran a medical testing company.Beutner said SummerBio's discount pricing, which was far less expensive than other firms being evaluated, ultimately made the project feasible.L.A. school board President Richard Vladovic said that the board is regularly briefed in general terms on the progress of the testing effort and that he wasn't aware of any potential concerns with SummerBio. He added that Beutner brings business experience and connections that are helpful in the current crisis."He can sit down with knowledge with CEOs of lots of companies," Vladovic said. "I'm convinced he's looking out for the interests of the students and the district. He got us a good deal, and I think that's one way to open schools."Several district insiders, speaking on the condition of anonymity, have expressed nervousness about operating outside the normal contracting process  which would have been unlikely to yield Menlo Park-based SummerBio, a company with no track record that was hurriedly hiring employees.The fledgling company has a mail drop at a UPS store for an official address and a lab with an undisclosed location, and it just posted a starter website, which includes video footage of Beutner describing the testing effort.SummerBio's Aug. 14 contract with L.A. Unified, which the district released toon Wednesday, states that the company "has not received an Emergency Use Authorization" issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the tests. That could normally create legal hurdles for the company's ability to operate, but during the pandemic emergency, the company can do business legally by submitting an application for authorization. The company submitted its application Aug. 7, according to the contract.In the middle of a hiring spree, SummerBio listed 16 openings on LinkedIn last week, including postings for four scientists, a data manager, a senior automation control engineer and a biostatistician.Beutner noted that SummerBio is using an established, FDA-approved test kit. What's new, he said, is the engineering that allows for faster and less expensive processing. If the results arrive too slowly or are unreliable, the district doesn't have to pay for those particular tests. Given that, Beutner said, the contract is worth the calculated risk of going with a start-up.The district has received hundreds of millions of dollars in coronavirus relief funds and intends to use that funding to pay for the testing, although it has argued that it should not have to pick up the full costs from those dollars.Under the contract, L.A. Unified is to get next-day, early morning results for up to 40,000 daily tests, at a price that no one else can match, Beutner said. The first 475,000 tests are $20 apiece, and the price drops gradually based on volume. Tests purchased after the 2-million mark drop to $10 apiece, which the contract schedule estimates to happen in February.Quality tests elsewhere range higher. By comparison, the well-regarded Broad Institute in Cambridge, Mass., has developed an automated procedure that has allowed it to reduce what it charges to schools and colleges, who are paying about $35 to $50 per test.The periodic testing is supposed to encompass all K-12, preschool and adult school students as well as some 75,000 employees  a total surpassing 700,000 people  as well as immediate family members as needed.Inevitably, "risk-taking is going to be part of the solution," said Peter Kuhn, a professor of biology, medicine and engineering at USC. Kuhn noted that efforts to close the testing gap are coming from academic centers, existing companies that were able to adapt to a new role and "rapid-fire start-ups financed by individuals and groups who wanted to be part of the solution."Ideally, he said, these kinds of transactions would occur in a fully transparent way, "but everybody is moving so fast."Dayton is well known for entrepreneurial ventures involving the internet. He was an early provider of dial-up internet service as EarthLink's founder. Later, he founded Boingo, which is known for providing internet service at airports.More recently, he's been an active investor and board member in Joby Aviation, which is designing electric short-hop mini-planes that would provide taxi service, and a leading investor in Swarm Technologies, which specializes in launching satellites as small as a sandwich. In 2018, Swarm agreed to pay a $900,000 fine to the Federal Communications Commission for launching four tiny satellites without the agency's permission. Dayton also has a major stake in Age of Learning, an online education platform for children.Beutner served on the board of EarthLink when Dayton headed the company, according to federal regulatory disclosure documents from 2001. Around that time, a trade publication noted that he and Dayton were business associates in eCompanies-Evercore Venture Management through Evercore, the investment company that Beutner headed at the time. Evercore also became a key investor in Boingo.In 2011, Dayton co-hosted a fundraiser for Beutner's short-lived run for mayor of Los Angeles.Beutner said it's been about 15 years since he's had a business association with Dayton, whom he described as "just someone I know."When Dayton came to him with the testing proposition around May, SummerBio also was contacting other potential customers, Beutner said. Over the summer, a team at L.A. Unified, which included outside advisors and experts, evaluated the testing services and prices of 22 companies  per a list provided by the district. The offer nearest to SummerBio was four times as expensive, according to the district.It was far from a given that SummerBio would get the work, said Beutner, adding that SummerBio has delivered so far. At this juncture, the number of daily tests needed is well below what the district will soon be seeking. The company uses its own pilot to fly tests to the San Francisco Bay Area twice a day for processing.SummerBio was incorporated May 26 in Delaware, a common place for corporate filings. The company was registered in California on June 3. Two apparently related entities were incorporated in Delaware on Aug. 14 (SummerBio Management Holdco) and Aug. 21 (Summer Bio Holdings)  a week after Beutner announced the partnership. Documents filed with state regulators are signed by Dayton, who lists himself as "manager."Baechler, the CEO, was officially hired in August, according to his LinkedIn profile, but Beutner said Baechler was part of the project well before that. According to the profile, Baechler serves on the board of two biotech companies and recently founded a medical technology consulting firm.For six years, until 2019, he headed Singulex, a Silicon Valley medical testing company. In June 2019, the 71-employee company reported to the state that it was closing permanently before the end of the month. The company's website is no longer active.Beutner said it's his understanding that L.A. Unified is SummerBio's first and only customer but that the company has fielded many recent inquiries about its "$10 test."SummerBio referred all inquiries to L.A. Unified. Dayton could not be reached for comment.Outside experts said many projects have gone into overdrive during the pandemic."It would not be completely unreasonable for a company to start in a matter of months, especially as many biotech or laboratory companies have recently shifted gears to COVID testing during the pandemic," said Richard Dang, assistant professor of clinical pharmacy at USC. "I do think that the lack of transparency from the company is somewhat of a red flag."Dang called the $10 test "an incredibly low amount that I have yet to see elsewhere."Even at the comparatively low prices, the school district projects its testing plan to run more than $150 million this year, when all costs are factored in.Collaborators on the effort include experts from three universities  UCLA, Johns Hopkins and Stanford  and Microsoft, which is designing an app linked to the testing effort.Because of high infection rates in L.A. County, schools cannot fully reopen until late October at the earliest.
Now Open

1 October 2020

Today signals the beginning of a new era for the Britomart precinct, with The Hotel Britomart officially opening its doors to guests. Bringing a vibrant new combination of food, retail, and beautifully crafted accommodation to downtown waterfront Auckland, The Hotel Britomart demonstrates the very best the city has to offer.

Designed by Cheshire Architects, the 10-floor hotel on Galway Street in the Britomart precinct offers 99 guest rooms and an even more premium stay in its five Landing Suites, which bring the luxurious coastal flavour of The Landing in the Bay of Islands to the centre of the bustling Britomart neighbourhood.

The Hotel Britomart is locally designed, built and owned. It's a place that does detail like no other, with interior timber accents and an exterior of hand-made bricks, organic cotton sheets and built-in sofas, hand-crafted vases and a mini-library of New Zealand books in every room and suite.

Some of the hotel rooms have panoramic views of the Waitemata Harbour, while others take in vistas of the city skyline or of bustling Takutai Square in the heart of the Britomart neighbourhood.

As New Zealand's first 5 Green Star hotel, certified by the New Zealand Green Building Council, The Hotel Britomart is sustainable from the ground up.

The Hotel Britomart's commitment to sustainability isn't just about making the building efficient. It's also about supporting local economies and showcasing the work of local artisans, businesses, designers, and regional producers.

With a focus on sustainable seafood, kingi - a brilliant all-day restaurant in the atmospheric laneway of the heritage Masonic Building (right next door to The Hotel Britomart), will be the new spot for locals and visitors alike.

Imagined by Cooper and Company, the team behind the rejuvenation of the Britomart neighbourhood since 2003, The Hotel Britomart project also involved the refurbishment of three adjacent heritage buildings, and the creation of a new plant-filled, pedestrian-friendly laneway connecting Galway and Customs Streets.

This intimate cobblestone walkway is open to the public and filled with outdoor seating, a cosy fireplace, and the theatre of Tom's open preparation kitchen.

Just a few steps from the hotel lobby are the sunny plant-lined streets and historic warehouses of the Britomart neighbourhood, which house an unforgettable array of the country's best restaurants, bars, boutiques and cafes.
Bhim Army chief says UP CM unable to handle govt, demands President's Rule

India

pti-Madhuri Adnal

Saharanpur (UP), Oct 01: Azad Samaj Party chief and Bhim Army founder Chandrashekhar Azad on Thursday demanded President's Rule in Uttar Pradesh, alleging failure of constitutional machinery in the state over crimes against Dalits.

Azad said he has started a dharna at his home in Saharanpur where he is put under a house arrest, which was ordered by the local police on Wednesday.

Police pushed, lathicharged and threw me to ground, claims Rahul Gandhi in Hathras

The Dalit activist was accompanying the family of the 19-year-old woman, who died in a Delhi hospital on Tuesday, a fortnight after she was allegedly gang raped in UP's Hathras, to their home but was detained midway. He was brought to his home in Saharanpur the next evening and put under house arrest, according to Azad Samaj Party office-bearers.

"I am sitting at my house on a dharna, injustice will not be tolerated. In Uttar Pradesh, Dalits are being meted out with injustice. The DM and the SSP of Hathras who have been protecting criminals and performing inhuman acts have not been removed yet. How can one expect justice from such unworthy people, he said in a tweet in Hindi.

Hathras, Azamgarh, Bulandshahr, Meerut, Balrampur every district in Uttar Pradesh is being embarrassed with incidents of rape. The constitutional machinery has failed completely. Yogi Adityanath cannot handle the government. The president should announce President's Rule as soon as possible, he said in another tweet.

Police pushed, lathicharged and threw me to ground, claims Rahul Gandhi in Hathras

He also alleged that public servants in Hathras were not following rules and demanded that the state government remove senior administration and police officials of the district.

The young woman's brutal death and subsequent cremation in the dead of the night in Hathras allegedly under police pressure on Tuesday has triggered massive outrage across the country over the law and order situation in UP and over women safety in general. The state has also reported the death of a 22-year-old Dalit woman on Tuesday after she was allegedly raped by two men in Balrampur district.
WHITE PLAINS, NY / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / The Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors (HGAR) is pleased to announce a merger with the Bronx-Manhattan North Association of Realtors (BMNAR). The merger was approved by both the BMNAR and HGAR Board of Directors, as well as the National Association of Realtors. In total, HGAR will now have nearly 1,500 members in the Bronx.

As a result of the merger, the Bronx Chapter of HGAR has been created and will initially operate out of the former BMNAR offices on Williamsbridge Road. Eliezer Rodriguez, BMNAR's CEO, has joined HGAR to assist with the expanded organization's legislative advocacy agenda and the development of a stronger Commercial and Investment Division (CID). He now serves as HGAR's Director, Advocacy, Commercial and Legislative Issues for Bronx and Manhattan. Vincent Buccieri, BMNAR's 2020 President, will now serve as the Bronx regional director on HGAR's board of directors.

"We are thrilled to officially welcome the Bronx to HGAR and look forward to expanding our presence there. With its proximity to the Lower Hudson Valley, this is a natural step that will greatly benefit all of our members," said Richard Haggerty, CEO of HGAR and president and chief strategic growth officer at OneKey MLS. "The BMNAR has a rich history of leadership and advocacy and has always fought for the best interests of their Realtors. This merger brings together two strong organizations and it is truly a win-win for our respective memberships."

HGAR President Gail Fattizzi noted the advantages to the merger include bridging the geography of HGAR's reach between Westchester and central Manhattan. "By joining our organizations together, we'll create greater political and legislative advocacy, help with expanding our Commercial Investment Division and bring in new talent to our organization," she said.

As members of HGAR, all Bronx Realtors are able to participate in OneKey MLS, the first regional MLS in the New York Metro area which was created by HGAR and The Long Island Board of Realtors. OneKey MLS currently has 42,000 subscribers.

"We had been talking about this for a while, and it's in the best interest of both the Bronx and the Hudson Valley," said Rodriguez. "We can offer a lot of great political connections and expertise in the commercial real estate sector, and we will benefit by being able to provide all of our Bronx members with the resources that a larger organization can provide. It's really a great fit for both associations."

At a Sept. 30 press conference announcing the merger, Councilman Fernando Cabrera (District 14) touted the impact the merger will have on Bronx residents.

"This is a new beginning for all of you. Home ownership is such an important issue, especially here in the Bronx," he said. "With this merger, and the OneKey MLS expansion, you're going to be able to go to another level - and I'm here to support you. The greater days of the Bronx are yet to come and you're going to be part of that."

For more information, visit www.hgar.com.

About Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors

The Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors (www.hgar.com) is a not-for-profit trade association representing more than 13,000 real estate professionals in Manhattan, the Bronx, Westchester, Putnam, Rockland and Orange counties. It is the second-largest Realtor association in New York, and one of the largest in the U.S.

Contact Info:

Kayleigh Lentz

Co-Communications

klentz@cocommunications.com

(914) 666-0066

SOURCE: Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/608718/Hudson-Gateway-Association-of-Realtors-Announces-Merger-with-Bronx-Manhattan-North-Association-of-Realtors
Twitter said this week that it has removed accounts purportedly originating in Iran that sought to influence the US presidential election. Other social media giants have also taken action recently against Iranian information operations.

Twitter announced Wednesday that it had removed around 130 accounts Tuesday night from its platform that appeared to originate in Iran. The information on the accounts was provided by the FBI, according to Twitter.

They were attempting to disrupt the public conversation during the first 2020 US Presidential Debate, the company said in a tweet. The debate took place Tuesday night.

Images that Twitter provided of the accounts indicated they had little influence. Some bore names supportive of US President Donald Trump. The company pledged to release a lengthy report on the matter.

The United States seeks to influence Iranians on Twitter as well, at the least overtly. In July, Trump tweeted in Persian to condemn the execution of Iranian prisoners. In January, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo declared, We stand with the Iranian people, and tweeted a video of a protest in the country.

While Twitter is blocked by order of the government in Iran, officials frequently use it. Iranians can also access Twitter via virtual private networks and other means.

Other Silicon Valley companies have also targeted supposed Iranian government influence operations. In May, Facebook said it removed hundreds of Iranian government accounts that translated Iranian state media content into various languages. Google said it did the same to about a dozen Iran-run YouTube accounts in August.
After much speculation, reports have emerged of casualties among Syrian fighters operating in the Karabakh region on behalf of Azerbaijan writes Al-Masdar.

Reports of casualties within the ranks of the Turkish-backed Syrian mercenaries in the Karabakh region have begin to surface online, with claims about different fighters being killed in clashes with the Armenian forces.

According to one report from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), the first mercenary was killed after being shot by Armenian forces in the Karabakh region.

Meanwhile, other reports have surfaced on social media of casualties from a number of Syrian militant groups backed by the Turkish military.

The total number of losses is still unknown at the moment; however, despite the denial by the Azerbaijani authorities about the presence of foreign fighters, it does appear that Syrian militants are indeed fighting in the Karabakh region.

The reports of mercenaries being sent to Azerbaijan first surfaced earlier this month, when local opposition activists in northern Syria began to post about recruitment efforts in the Afrin region of the country.

Syrian militant fighters have now been used in at least two foreign wars, including the Libya conflict, which is where they first began to fight.

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.
Its probably Azerbaijan that started the shooting in this latest round of fighting with neighbouring Armenia. Which is not to say that its all Azerbaijans fault.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 1/10/2020 (478 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Opinion

Its probably Azerbaijan that started the shooting in this latest round of fighting with neighbouring Armenia. Which is not to say that its all Azerbaijans fault.

The killing that started last Sunday is the biggest clash since the ceasefire of 1994: helicopters shot down, tanks blown up, and dozens of soldiers dead already. It could go the distance  the 1992-94 war cost 30,000 lives and drove a million people from their homes  or it could die down in a few days. But it wont settle anything.

In the Caucasus, neighbouring countries can be wildly different: Azerbaijan is Shia Muslim and speaks what is really an eastern dialect of Turkish, while Armenia is Orthodox Christian and speaks a language that has no known relatives within the Indo-European family. But the two countries share a long history of oppression.

They both spent almost a century in the Russian empire, got their independence back briefly during the revolution, and then spent another 70 years as part of the Soviet Union. When they both got their independence again in 1991, however, they almost immediately went to war.

That was Joseph Stalins fault. When he was commissar of nationality affairs in 1918-22, he drew the borders of all the new non-Russian "Soviet Republics" in the Caucasus and Central Asia according to the classic imperial principle of divide-and-rule. Every "republic" included ethnic minorities from neighbouring republics, to minimize the risk that they might develop a genuine national identity.

In the case of Azerbaijan, Stalin gave it the district of Nagorno-Karabakh ("mountainous" Karabakh) even though that area was four-fifths Armenian in population. When the Soviet Union began crumbling 70 years later, the local minorities in both countries started fleeing to areas where they would be safely in the majority even before the war got under way.

The actual war in 1992-94 was a brutal affair involving active ethnic cleansing: 600,000 Azerbaijanis and 300,000 Armenians became refugees. On paper, Armenia should have lost, for it has only three million people to Azerbaijans nine million, but it actually won most of the battles.

When post-Soviet Russia brokered a ceasefire between the exhausted parties, Armenia wound up holding not only Nagorno-Karabakh but a large amount of other territory (now emptied of Azerbaijanis) that connected Nagorno-Karabakh with Armenia proper. And thats where the border  more precisely the ceasefire line  remains to this day.

I havent been near the front line since shortly after that war, so why would I claim to know that its Azerbaijan starting up the war again this time? Three reasons:

First, Armenia already controls all the territory it claims and more. However, in terms of international law it has no legal claim to it, and the UN Security Council has four times called for the withdrawal of Armenian troops. Why would Armenia draw further unwelcome attention to the fact that it has been illegally occupying "foreign" territory for 26 years?

Secondly, Armenia is much weaker in military terms. Not only has it far fewer people but it is poor, whereas Azerbaijan has enjoyed great wealth from oil. Both countries buy most of their weapons from Russia, but in the past two decades Azerbaijan has consistently outspent Armenia on defence by a factor of nine to one.

Finally, Azerbaijans "elected" dictator, Ilham Aliyev, has a strong political need for a war right now, while Armenias new leader, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, does not.

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Pashinyan came to power in 2018 in a free election, after non-violent protests forced out his long-ruling predecessor, who was trying to "do a Putin" (that is to say, stay in power when he hit the two-term limit as president by moving real power to the prime ministers office, and coming back himself as prime minister). Armenia now has free media and a popular president.

Aliyev is fighting to prolong his familys dynastic rule for a third generation in the face of popular protests. His father, Heydar Aliyev, was a career KGB officer who became leader of the Azerbaijan Communist Party and took over as dictator after the Soviet Union collapsed. (This happened in most of the Muslim ex-Soviet republics.)

Heydar managed to pass power to his son Ilham before he died in 2003. Ilham changed the constitution to scrap presidential term limits in 2009. In 2016 he even lowered the age limit on the presidency, to smooth the path to the throne for his then-19-year-old son.

Azerbaijans opposition parties, despite oppression, jail and torture, are resisting Ilham Aliyevs tyranny, and their most effective rallying cry is Armenias occupation of Nagorno-Karabakh. Mobs of anti-regime demonstrators recently took over central Baku demanding action, and this mini-war is Aliyevs attempt to placate them.

It will all die down if Armenia can hold on long enough for Russia to impose another ceasefire. Otherwise, it may get very ugly again.

Gwynne Dyers latest book is Growing Pains: The Future of Democracy (and Work).
Marco's path to 1,000 charts an incredible journey - starting with an Italian founder, Pat Giammarco , and a dream of creating a pizza brand, to CEO Jack Butorac who discovered a wonderful growth opportunity. From a driver who's been delivering smiles for 30 years, to a couple who met and will marry at Marco's. From the 500 th store opened by veteran Joe Walker in South Carolina, to Edgardo Beniquez Santiago and Luisaliz Rivera co-owners of the 900 th location in Puerto Rico , to the immigrant entrepreneurs slated to open this milestone 1,000 th location, Marco's people and their commitment to hospitality earned them the title of most-loved and most-trusted pizza brand, according to the 2019 Harris Poll EquiTrend Study. And, of course, it's about the guests, who make Delivering Memories the brand's greatest reward, as it strives to make a positive difference in the communities it serves.

"Reaching this significant growth milestone is cause for celebration," said Tony Libardi, President & COO of Marco's Pizza. "As a people-first organization, we wanted to celebrate this achievement with those who have helped us throughout our journey. This people-first mentality has been the secret to our long-term success  it's our passionate franchisees, dedicated team members, and loyal customers who have propelled this brand to greatness. We've built an incredible culture and look forward to the growth opportunities that lie ahead in our journey to the next 1,000."

The flagship 1,000 location was a close timeline among a diverse group of franchisees including:

Kattya Barbaran and Rafi Vargas and their Kissimmee, Fla. location. Both immigrated to the United States with the dream of owning their own business one day and providing a future for their family. As a general manager for Marco's, Kattya has a passion for training and growing people. Rafi, a regional director for Marco's, has always dreamt of being an entrepreneur.

and and their location. Both immigrated to with the dream of owning their own business one day and providing a future for their family. As a general manager for Marco's, Kattya has a passion for training and growing people. Rafi, a regional director for Marco's, has always dreamt of being an entrepreneur. Travis Davis and his Buda, TX location. He and his partners also own almost 50 Sonic drive-In locations and came to Marco's to grow and diversify their portfolio. He believes in creating a path to ownership for his general managers.

and his location. He and his partners also own almost 50 Sonic drive-In locations and came to Marco's to grow and diversify their portfolio. He believes in creating a path to ownership for his general managers. Brandon Hudson and Damion Mason and their location in Richmond, Va. Both were fraternity brothers at Virginia State University and have partnered together on several business ventures including Marco's Pizza. These two see tremendous potential in the brand and want to help it diversify its franchisee base.

and and their location in Both were fraternity brothers at and have partnered together on several business ventures including Marco's Pizza. These two see tremendous potential in the brand and want to help it diversify its franchisee base. Stephanie Moseley and her Yorktown, Va. location. As a veteran of the Air Force, Stephanie has brought grit and determination to her Marco's franchise. She credits much of her success to finding the right, experienced general manager who understood her vision to round out her team.

Ultimately, the numbers played out with Barbaran and Vargas' Kissimmee, Fla. store as the official milestone location.

"This year has been a difficult one for many of our team members, customers and communities. Rafi and I feel very blessed to be able to fulfill our dream and give back to the Marco's family in the process," said Barbaran.

Throughout the pandemic, Marco's remained committed to growth in 2020  opening 51 stores thus far with upwards of 80 locations expected to open total this year. Plus, it has 89 new store commitments in the pipeline, and recorded historic sales milestones, all while supporting communities nationwide via its 'You Can Count on Marco's Pizza' commitment.

The pandemic also accelerated several innovations and pilot programs including the opening of ghost kitchens in several strategic markets, rapid expansion of third-party delivery and testing of robotic kitchen innovations that improve efficiencies without compromising pizza quality or craftmanship. Marco's is committed to the future and beyond as the company continues to push forward with new openings and signed agreements during the COVID era.

"This is a very proud moment," said CEO Jack Butorac, a 40-year restaurant industry veteran, who came out of retirement to build Marco's Pizza. "I remember in my early conversations with Founder Pat [Giammarco] saying 'you have a 1,000-store concept here.' And now, amid a pandemic, the brand is about to achieve this amazing milestone while experiencing record-breaking sales. It has been an incredible journey and I cannot wait to hit 1,500!"

Marco's is the only national pizza franchise founded by a native Italian. It has carved out a niche in the industry for authentic Italian quality pizza, known for its fresh dough made in-store daily, signature three-cheese blend that is fresh, never-frozen, and a secret original pizza sauce recipe from its founder Pat Giammarco.

Opening a new store every three and a half days on average, the Top 50% of its franchised stores generated $918,047 AUV for 2019*. For more information on Marco's Pizza franchise opportunities, visit www.marcosfranchising.com or call 866-731-8209.

ABOUT MARCO'S PIZZA

Marco's Pizza is America's Most Loved and Most Trusted Pizza Brand, according to the 2019 Harris Poll EquiTrend Study. Headquartered in Toledo, Ohio, Marco's Pizza is one of the fastest-growing pizza companies in the United States. Marco's was founded in 1978 by Italian-born Pasquale ("Pat") Giammarco and thrives by making authentic Italian quality pizza with fresh ingredients. The company has grown from its roots as a beloved Ohio brand to operate nearly 1,000 stores in 34 states with locations in Puerto Rico and the Bahamas. Most recently, Marco's Pizza was ranked No. 2 in the Pizza category on Entrepreneur Magazine's 2020 "Franchise 500" ranking, and No. 6 in the Largest Pizza Chain category on Restaurant Business' 2020 "Top 500 Chains" ranking. Other recent accolades include ranking No. 4 in Forbes 2019 "Best Franchises to Buy" Small/Medium Investment and ranking five consecutive years on Nation's Restaurant News' prestigious "Top 200" ranking.

*Based on the Average Unit Volume of the top 50% of our Franchised Stores for fiscal year 2019. Based on fiscal year 2019, 127 of 291 Franchised Stores in the category (38%) met or exceeded this average. This information appears in Item 19 of our 2020 FDD  please refer to our FDD for complete information on financial performance. Results may differ. There is no assurance that any franchisee will perform as well.

SOURCE Marcos Franchising, LLC

Related Links

http://www.marcosfranchising.com


Toyota has been a leading brand when it comes to rolling out 2021 models and information about said models. The Toyota lineup features several all-new models, three new standard hybrid powertrains and a long list of technological updates across the board. While navigating the information about the brands 2021 models can be challenging, the team at Hesser Toyota in Janesville has taken on the task of providing transparent information about each 2021 model before it arrives at the dealership.

A few of the 2021 Toyota models found on the Hesser Toyota lot include the Corolla, Corolla Hybrid, Prius, RAV4, 4Runner, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid and more. During September alone, the dealership added informative model research pages for the 2021 Toyota RAV4, 2021 Toyota Highlander and 2021 Toyota 4Runner. Shoppers looking for information about the models available at Hesser Toyota can simply view the dealerships inventory on its website and click on specific vehicles to learn about their specs and features.

Individuals interested in learning more about 2021 Toyota models in Janesville, Wisconsin can head to http://www.hessertoyota.com to view the dealerships inventory, read through informative model research, apply for financing and learn more about vehicles by reading through the blog. Questions can be directed to 608-754-7754 and the dealership is located at 1811 Humes Road.


New images of Australia's world-famous Circular Quay promenade have exposed concerning deterioration lurking beneath the surface.

The southern part of the walkway, which features views of Sydney's iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge, is the most dilapidated, engineers claim.

An internal report from August last year featured pictures of the wooden piles, the concrete underside of the walkway and the seawall beneath, revealing how they have fallen into disrepair.

The southern part of the walkway, which features views of Sydney's iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge, is the most dilapidated, engineers claim

Secret images of Australia's world-famous Circular Quay promenade have exposed concerning deterioration lurking beneath the surface (Pictured: A wooden pile beneath the eastern concourse last year)

Engineers estimated that about a third of the southern promenade's 234 timber and steel piles were in a poor condition, the report, which was obtained by the Sydney Morning Herald under freedom of information, showed.

Fears were raised that there was cause for concern as it was 'likely to worsen and may cause serious structural inadequacies in the future'.

Graeme Taylor, from community group Action for Public Transport, slammed the government for not doing enough to ensure the structures were safe.

'It's really in a serious state of disrepair. A much more proactive approach is needed to more seriously address the widespread deterioration.'

Engineers estimated that about a third of the southern promenade's 234 timber and steel piles were in a poor condition (Pictured: Corrosion on steel beams beneath the Circular Quay promenade)

The government came under fire earlier this year when it was revealed Circular Quay's iconic wharves were also hiding concerning defects

A spokesman from NSW Transport said 'all necessary critical maintenance has been, and will continue to be, carried out'.

Six of 16 concrete support structures and 45 piles have been repaired or replaced over the past few months.

'The community may be assured that Transport for NSW undertakes regular and comprehensive inspections and maintenance,' he said.

The government came under fire earlier this year when it was revealed Circular Quay's iconic wharves were also hiding concerning defects.

The defects included broken chains, rotting timber and severely damaged supports, 9news reported.

The wharves heritage-listed, which means upgrades are restricted to repair and replacement work with the same or similar materials.

The government has planned to begin construction on both the aged Circular Quay ferry wharves and waterfront land in 2023 with the price sitting around $200 million.

The upgrade is much later than the original plans, which had the construction beginning last year.

The government came under fire earlier this year when it was revealed Circular Quay's iconic wharves were also hiding concerning defects
October 1, 2020, 10:20  akipress.kg 

AKIPRESS.COM - U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Acting Administrator John Barsa announced the establishment of new bilateral USAID missions in Tajikistan and Uzbekistan at an event hosted by the Heritage Foundation. The announcement comes just months after the public launch of the United States Strategy for Central Asia 2019-2025 and is another example of USAID's long-term commitment to the people of Central Asia, the U.S. Embassy said. "Missions are the hubs for USAID's work and demonstrate that the United States is dedicated to building direct and meaningful relationships with a country's government and people. In Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, these missions will also help ensure that our work in the region is coordinated so that no country in Central Asia is left behind," the Acting Administrator said.

Joined by Farhod Salim, Ambassador of Tajikistan to the United States, and Javlon Vakhabov, Ambassador of Uzbekistan to the United States, Acting Administrator Barsa emphasized that USAID is building on our past successes in the region and is looking toward the future, leveraging new opportunities for reform-oriented development not only as a means to strengthen economic growth, rule of law, and natural resource management, but to bolster fair trade, expand connectivity and energy markets and strengthen regional stability.

Under the Central Asia Strategy, the United States partners with Central Asian countries to build their resilience to short and long-term threats to their stability, to strengthen their independence from malign actors, and to deepen political, economic, and security partnerships with the United States. The new missions are expected to be fully operational in 2021.
Two villagemen, one of them a former deputy sarpanch, from two villages of Bijapur district were killed by Moaists for being police informers, police said on Thursday.

The incidents took place on Wednesday night in two villages under Jangala police station area.

Maoists have killed Dhaniram Korsa, a former deputy sarpanch of Bardela village, and another was Gopal Kudiyam of Gongla village, both under Jangala police station. We have brought the body for post-mortem and combing of the area has started, said IG Bastar, Sunderaj P.

Police claimed that a group of Maoists reached the villages and killed Korsa and Kudiyam with sharp-edged weapons, suspecting them to be police informers.

In Bijapur, 12 people, including three policemen and a forest ranger, have been killed in the last one month - an issue of concern for both police and human rights activists.

Sunderaj P, in a statement to the media, said Maoists are frustrated because of an effective campaign against them, many of their camps have been demolished.

Realising that there is no future in Maoism, a large number of Maoists has also surrendered due to which the Maoists are frustrated and are trying to terrorise by killing and beating innocent villagers, said the IG.

He further said that roads, bridges, culverts and other basic facilities have been provided to the villagers in the Bastar region in the last few years even in situations of lockdown and floods, which has increased the confidence of the villagers in governance, administration and security forces.

They panicked after losing the confidence of the villagers and they are killing them, said the IG.

Other police officers believe that the Maoists want to create an environment of fear among villagers which can help them increase recruitment.

There has been a decrease in recruitment of sentries in 2017-18. The other very important factor behind the killings is that there is total indiscipline in ranks of Maoists, with local cadres now doing mass executions without even taking approval of senior cadres. And lastly, there is total ideological disarray with movement becoming an armed war with no ethics, a police officer said.

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A saddening new state report is predicting that nearly half of New York City's 24,000 bars and restaurants could shut permanently in the next six months as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and slow response from the city to reopen.

State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli released the audit on Thursday. While there is no official tally for how many have closed permanently already, the report predicts between a third and half will shutter in the next six months which will cost 150,000 people their jobs.

Restaurants in New York City are currently limited to only allowing 25 percent of their normal capacity which makes it impossible for them to turn a profit. Bars, meanwhile, are still forbidden from opening.

The industry is up in arms about the rules, which are harsher than anywhere else in the state despite the fact that New York City commercial rent is the highest in the state.

China Chalet, a well known party restaurant near Wall Street, has closed permanently

Jules Bistro, a jazz restaurant in the East Village, has also been forced to close permanently

Eliza's Local on Saint Marks Place in the East Village has been forced to close its doors

Italian restaurant Porsena has also been forced out of business

Noble Tree Coffee on the corner of St Marks Place and 2nd Avenue, is also permanently closed

Jebon, a sushi restaurant on Saint Marks Place, is also closed for good

The audit found that of in 2019, there were 23,650 bars and restaurants in New York City. As many as 12,000 could close in the next six months if no other help is given to businesses from the federal government, it claimed.

'Estimates of the potential permanent closures of City restaurants and bars over the next six months to a year have generally ranged from one-third to one-half of all establishments that existed before the pandemic.

'At the high end, that could result in a permanent loss of nearly 12,000 of the Citys restaurants and bars, and nearly 159,000 industry jobs, although the opening of new restaurants would mitigate some of these losses,' the report reads.

The report also revealed that the vast majority of restaurants across the city are small businesses with fewer than 20 employees.

Most of the jobs (192,500) are in Manhattan, 51,700 are in Brooklyn and 49,100 are in Queens. The average restaurant worker salary was $33,700 in 2019.

The two areas with the most restaurants are midtown and lower Manhattan - together, they make up 40 percent of the city's jobs.

The theater district had the highest employment rate for restaurant workers.

But with Broadway closed until January 2021 at least and as office workers continue to work from home, they are all at risk.

Restaurant jobs plummeted in March, when they were all forced closed, and have gradually increased since April but are nowhere near pre-pandemic levels and as many as 150,000 could be wiped out

NYC is dragging behind the rest of the state and the world in restaurant reservations because they have not been able to reopen as quickly

Chinatown is also at high risk due to the sudden drought in tourism.

'The restaurants and bars in these areas face special challenges due to the declines in tourism, office employees working on-site, and some residents relocating to second homes outside the City,' the report read.

In 2019, restaurant sales contributed to 15 percent ($26.9billion) of all the taxable sales in the state.

DiNapoli recommends in his report that the state and city give clearer guidance to bars and restaurants on when and how they can expect to bring back more people. He also said it was vital that they received additional help from the government.

'Its important that the state and city continue to be creative and bolster the industry.

'The citys decision to extend outdoor dining year-round to help keep restaurants afloat is a step in the right direction along with opening for indoor dining,' he said.

Restaurant owners on Wednesday told DailyMail.com that while they were excited about finally being able to welcome back diners, 25 percent capacity would do nothing to help them.

Diners inside Keens Steakhouse on Wednesday on the first day of indoor dining in New York City. Restaurants can operate at a 25 percent capacity

Some restaurants reported that diners were more eager to sit outside than indoors. The weather remains warm in New York. Above, Serafina on the Lower East Side

'We appreciate these endeavors - they will be helpful - next year, if the city recovers.

'When we have widespread al-fresco dining outside it'll add appeal as tourism recovers.

'But to think 25 percent, at this late stage, four months after the rest of the state when we pay more per square foot than any other region, after all our PPP funds have been used... we'll come nowhere close to preventing hundreds into thousands of restaurants from closing.

'It could have been prevented. That's the tragedy,' Mark Fox, who owns four Manhattan restaurants, said.

Chef Daniel Boulud of Daniel on the Upper East Side said he was happy to welcome diners back but that he wished it had happened 'two months ago'.

'It's a mix of anxiety and excitement for sure, I am very excited for the staff to be back to work of course.

'I may see the 25 percent lasting longer than we thought though because of resurgence in different countries [of lockdowns],' he said.

Boulud said it was 'impossible' to run a business with such a limited capacity.

Among the more than 1,000 restaurants that have already closed permanently is Jules Bistro, a French Jazz restaurant in the East Village, and Mission Chinese, a famously expensive eatery in the Lower East Side.

Mission owner Danny Bowien announced the closure on Instagram.

'We have had to fight to save our businesses and jobs while making the case for our very existenc.

'We all desperately want restaurants to open  to really open  but we cannot insist on this out of obligation, without regard to the health of our customers and our employees,' he said.
Theres no doubt Canadas residential school system is a dark and terrible stain on this countrys history. And no doubt that Canadians should never forget what happened and strive to better understand the brutal toll that history continues to exact on Indigenous people.

Theres plenty of doubt, however, that much of that will be achieved by giving federally regulated employees a paid day off work.

Heritage Minister Steven Guilbeault introduced legislation this week to make Sept. 30 (so-called Orange Shirt Day) a statutory holiday to reflect and honour the survivors of residential schools.

Even if we adopt the hopeful view, as many Indigenous leaders have, that a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation would be used as a solemn occasion of remembrance and help keep reconciliation efforts on the front burner, its still a symbolic approach to an issue that requires so much more than that.

And far too often, symbolic moves have been used by governments in place of the more concrete actions, funding and programs that are needed to solve the underlying problems.

The idea for a statutory holiday was put forward by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in 2015. It was No. 80 on its list of 94 calls to action.

How about No.1?

That one called on governments to commit to reducing the number of Aboriginal children in care.

To its credit, the Trudeau government has recently put in place a new legislative framework to affirm the right of Indigenous communities to develop and enforce their own child-welfare laws and shift the focus away from removing children. But its very slow going, almost certainly underfunded and, crucially, hasnt actually solved the problem yet.

Across the country, more Indigenous children are taken from their homes by childrens aid societies now than were displaced at the height of the residential school system.

Theres a straight line from that modern-day tragedy to family poverty, inadequate housing, untreated addictions, intergenerational trauma from residential schools and a woefully underfunded child welfare system  all issues that have repeatedly been put on the back-burner.

What about No. 24?

We call upon medical and nursing schools in Canada to require all students to take a course dealing with Aboriginal health issues, including the history and legacy of residential schools ... This will require skills-based training in intercultural competency, conflict resolution, human rights and anti-racism.

We need look no further than the horrific case of Joyce Echaquan, who died in a hospital in Joliette, Que., earlier this week, to know how much this is needed.

The 37-year-old Atikamekw mother documented through a Facebook Live video the final heart-wrenching moments of her life. That included hospital staff dismissing her cries of distress as they called her stupid as hell and hurled racist insults at her.

There have been advances in education on Indigenous health but courses are still not mandatory everywhere or comprehensive enough. And the ultimate goal of closing the gap in health outcomes between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities  No. 19  is still nowhere in sight.

Nor is No. 30. We call upon federal, provincial, and territorial governments to commit to eliminating the overrepresentation of Aboriginal people in custody over the next decade, and to issue detailed annual reports that monitor and evaluate progress in doing so.

Were almost five years in and while a few statements have been made this hasnt even started to change for the better. In fact, the problem is getting worse.

Indigenous people make up five per cent of Canadas population but fully 30 per cent of the federal prison population. For women the situation is even worse: 42 per cent of federal female inmates are Indigenous.

This is a systemic problem and one of Canadas most pressing social justice issues. And yet it hasnt received the sustained attention or concerted actions needed from government.

When COVID-19 arrived, the provincial jail population in Ontario dropped by more than a quarter in the span of a month to reduce overcrowding so we know change can happen quickly when the right focus is brought to bear.

When the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation comes to pass  and whether or not the statutory holiday is extended to workers across the country beyond the few who are in federal employ  it cannot be used by government as a diversion from the harder work that still needs to be done.

Every measure we have to judge how a population is doing shows Canada is failing Indigenous peoples: child welfare, poverty, addictions and mental health, housing and clean water, education and employment, and incarceration.

So lets listen to First Nations child-welfare advocate Cindy Blackstock who welcomed the holiday with a heavy but. She said improving services for Indigenous families would have been better.

And she issued a warning: They tend to use these types of things to make the appearance that theyre doing something without changing the fundamental behaviour that has separated First Nations families for generations.

How nice it would be if, by the time this holiday rolls around, there were many more concrete actions to ensure a better future for Indigenous peoples for us all to celebrate.
Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam cheered the city`s "return to stability" during China national day celebrations on Thursday, as hundreds of police in riot gear patrolled the route of a banned anti-government march by pro-democracy activists.

Protesters wanted to march against Beijing`s imposition of a sweeping national security law on June 30 and demand the return of 12 Hong Kong people China arrested at sea in August on their way to self-ruled Taiwan.

Lam attended a flag raising ceremony with other senior Hong Kong and mainland officials in a centre for exhibitions surrounded by police and security barriers.

"Over the past three months, the plain truth is, and it is obvious to see, that stability has been restored to society while national security has been safeguarded, and our people can continue to enjoy their basic rights and freedoms," Lam said.

As she spoke, groups of officers in riot gear conducted stop-and-search operations along an expected marching route linking the prime shopping district of Causeway Bay with the administrative Admiralty district.

At the 2.00 pm start time of the planned protest, which was banned by police citing the coronavirus and violence at previous marches, there was little sign of crowds gathering, although streets were crammed with riot police and reporters.

Police sent away any people who looked suspicious to them: one teenager playing protest songs into a woodwind instrument; a man dressed in black and holding a yellow balloon -- colours associated with pro-democracy supporters; a woman holding a copy of the Apple Daily anti-government tabloid.

"Hong Kong people have been sad and disappointed for a year. This is meant to be a holiday and the streets are full of police," said 52-year-old Mandy as she was shopping with her husband.

"People are in no mood to celebrate. The government is using the national security laws and the pandemic to suppress our hearts.

Late on Wednesday, police said they had arrested five people for inciting participation in illegal assemblies online.

Anti-government protests, which often turned violent in 2019, have been smaller and fewer this year due to coronavirus restrictions on group gatherings and fears of arrest under the new security law.

The law punishes anything China considers as subversion, separatism, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison and gives police and Chinese security agents broad powers.

`NATIONAL MOURNING`

Four members of the League of Social Democrats, led by veteran activist Leung Kwok-hung, known as Long Hair, marched holding a banner reading There is no national day celebration, only national mourning." Four is the maximum number of people allowed to gather under

coronavirus restrictions.

A sore point for democracy supporters has been the capture of 12 Hong Kong people by Chinese authorities, now in detention in the mainland city of Shenzhen, having been arrested for illegal border crossing and organising cross-border crimes.

All were suspected of committing crimes in Hong Kong related to last year`s protests.

Their arrest has compounded the fears of many in Hong Kong about what they see as Chinas determination to end any push for greater democracy in the financial hub.

The October 1 China national day is resented by many democracy supporters who say Beijing is eroding the wide-ranging liberties the former British colony was promised when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997.

For pro-Beijing supporters, it is an opportunity to drum up patriotism in China`s most restive city.

At the flag raising ceremony, Lam praised China`s success in curbing the coronavirus and its economic recovery, calling it "a rare bright spot" which "has shown once again the shift of the global economic focus from the West to the East."
HARTFORD  A city man has been sentenced to five years behind bars for distributing fentanyl and crack cocaine, federal prosecutors announced.

U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant also sentenced Yasil Lilo Santos, 25, to four years of supervised release after completing his jail term.

According to court documents and statements made in court, the case stems from an investigation conducted by the FBIs Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Gang Task Force and Hartford Police Departments Vice and Narcotics Division into the trafficking of narcotics and associated violence in Hartfords South End by members and associates of the Almighty Latin Kings Nation.

According to a release from U.S. Attorney John Durham, the investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps, physical surveillance and controlled purchases of narcotics, revealed that two members of the Latin Kings operated separate drug trafficking organizations that distributed fentanyl, heroin, cocaine and crack cocaine.

The organizations used multiple locations to process, package, store and distribute narcotics, and possessed firearms for their drug trafficking activities, Durham said.

Nelson Ferry led one of the drug trafficking organizations, Durham said. Ferry, with the assistance of Santos and others, processed and packaged heroin/fentanyl at his East Hartford residence, and he operated a trap house on Wethersfield Avenue in Hartford as a distribution point for drug customers, Durham said.

Santos worked with Ferry to distribute heroin/fentanyl and crack cocaine from the Wethersfield Avenue trap house, Durham said.

Santos has been detained since his arrest on July 24, 2018. On Sept. 24, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, 40 grams or more of fentanyl and 28 grams or more of crack cocaine.

Santos criminal history includes two state convictions for firearm offenses.

Ferry pleaded guilty to related charges and was sentenced in February to 87 months in jail.
North Broward Preparatory School demanded Nadine Cutler remove the Black Lives Manner flag hanging aside a rainbow flag.

Middle school teacher Nadine Cutler claims she was forced out of her job in Florida after a parent complained about a Black Lives Matter flag she displayed in her classroom.

North Broward Preparatory School, a private school in Coconut Grove, demanded that Cutler take down the BLM flag, which hung next to a rainbow flag. She noted that administrators did not demand that she remove the LGBT-pride emblem.

A demonstrator waves a flag in support of Black Lives Matter during last months Commitment March at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Natasha Moustache/Getty Images)

I felt that the administration was kind of picking and choosing which marginalized group they felt comfortable supporting, Cutler told news affiliate Local10.

Cutler said she chose to hang the sign because it really means acknowledging the systemic racism and inequality, she contended. With a predominantly white population, I think systemic racism is a really important topic.

She said that while she would like her job back, she hopes her students learn a lesson from her forced resignation.

Read More: Alabama governor apologizes to Sarah Collins Rudolph, fifth girl in 1963 bombing

Members of the elite campus alumni association sent a petition to administrations condemning what happened and demanding that the school affirm the Black Lives Matter movement.

We, the undersigned alumni, strongly condemn the actions taken by the North Broward Preparatory School (NBPS) administration in response to Middle School Pre-Algebra teacher Nadine Cutlers display of a Black Lives Matter flag in her classroom, they wrote. Addressing systemic racism in the United States should not be seen as a side in a debate that students should critically analyze before develop[ing] their individual positions. Affirming that Black life matters in a classroom at a school that supposedly prides itself on its diversity and multiculturalism should not be controversial.

Story continues

Read More: White Michigan man seeks forgiveness in attack on Black familys home

Hundreds of former NBPS pupils signed the petition, which also called for the school to increase its efforts to recruit students of color and to offer scholarships to those who might not otherwise be able to afford tuition due to societal barriers.

The school sent an email to parents stating that Cutler resigned because she was not a good fit for our community. They noted that last year, they created a Cultural Intelligence and Inclusion Team dedicated to the execution of school-wide cultural intelligence and inclusion initiatives.

Read More: California to develop plan for reparations for Black Americans

It is vital that this work addresses the challenges that the diverse members of our community face, their letter stated, and this work will continue this year and in the years to come.

North Broward Preparatory School educates students from early childhood through 12th grade.

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WATERLOO REGION  The security guards who will be patrolling the Galt core are trained and licensed  but dont call them officers.

Thats one of the interesting distinctions the provincial government spells out in defining the powers and responsibilities of a security guard, as opposed to a police officer or sworn peace officer, like the special constables employed at many universities.

The city of Cambridge announced this week that four guards from Barber-Collins Security Services  a Waterloo-based security firm that already provides services for the city  will patrol Galt between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m., seven days a week.

The city said the move is intended to give businesses and residents a heightened sense of security, in the wake of safety concerns and a series of recent vandalism incidents.

Founded in 1980, Barber-Collins provides services throughout Waterloo Region and surrounding areas; its website says it employs more than 580 front-line staff and supervisors. A company representative was not available for comment Wednesday.

Although guards in Ontario may be allowed to carry a company-issued baton, handcuffs  even a gun, if theyre licensed under the Firearms Act  their powers dont really extend past those granted to a regular citizen. Security guards have neither police nor peace officer powers. They have the same powers as any member of the public under the Criminal Code, the Ministry of the Solicitor Generals website states.

A security guard can make a citizens arrest if a crime is witnessed, but the guard must hand the suspect over to a peace officer as soon as possible. A guard can also ask a person to leave private property, and can make an arrest without a warrant under the Trespass to Property Act if the individual refuses to leave.

Guards are governed by the Private Security and Investigative Services Act (PSISA), which regulates the industry and ensures employees are properly trained and qualified. They must carry their licence when on duty, but they cant carry a badge. They cant call themselves officers, law enforcement or detectives, and their uniforms cant include anything that could confuse them with police  black or navy blue collared shirts are out, along with striped pants, rank chevrons or police-style forage caps.

Trained in first aid, guards are expected to be able to recognize the signs of substance abuse. Legally, security guards must comply with the Code of Conduct Regulation under the PSISA as well as the Ontario Human Rights Code, and are therefore obliged to treat all persons equally and without discrimination, the ministry states.

Anyone can file a complaint against a licensed guard or company if they feel the security act has been violated. Those found guilty of offences under the act could face a fine up to $25,000 and/or a jail term of up to a year.
Kolkata, Oct 1 : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday expressed shock at the Hathras gang rape and murder, dubbing it a 'barbaric and shameful' incident.

"I have no words to condemn the barbaric and shameful incident at Hathras involving a young Dalit girl. My deepest condolences to the family," Banerjee tweeted.

On the alleged forceful cremation of the victim by the police, the Chief Minister said that it actually exposed 'those who use slogans and lofty promises for votes.' "More shameful is the forceful cremation without the family's presence or consent, exposing those who use slogans and lofty promises for votes," Banerjee said.

The Trinamool supremo's reaction came amid outrage in the country over the gang rape and murder of the young woman in Uttar Pradesh.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Presidential debates are unstructured events where candidates fail to show respect for the opponent. The result is a television event where candidates look like undisciplined children. Sure enough, not even five minutes into the first presidential debate of 2020, both candidates were interrupting and talking over each other. Several times, three people were talking as the moderator attempted to restore order. Can anything be done to fix this situation? Certainly.

Give the moderator an on-off switch for each microphone. Then the moderator can direct a question to one candidate, turn on that candidates mic, and turn off the mic for the other candidate until its time for a response. A simple use of technology will restore order and give the American people the opportunity to hear what each candidate has to say, absent the childish squabbling that now exists. To quote the moderator last night, the country would be better served.

Lorne Evje, Hercules

Turn off microphone

Its clear that President Trump wants to shut down the debates, most likely because he doesnt actually know or remember the facts and figures needed to respond in a debate format. So he is reduced to ignoring the subject of the question and constantly talking over his opponent.

If the debates are to continue, why in the world cant the microphone of a candidate be turned off when its not his turn to speak?

Jeanna McGregor, Berkeley

Now we know

If anyone still doesnt know why this country is so chaotic right now, the current president showed us the reason during a debate with no decorum, no respect for the debate rules, rhetoric full of lies and misleading statements and hyperbole. It was all about himself. This is exactly the same way he has been handling the pandemic. The debate showed us why we cant believe a rude president who is not really a brilliant businessman, having only played one on TV.

Angie Gordon, Vallejo

End the interruptions

I implore those with the power to influence future debates to utilize whatever means are necessary to ensure that both sides are heard for their full-time allotment without interruption. If this means turning off their mics and cameras when their time is up, so be it.

If this means halting the debate until speakers comply with the rules, so be it. If this means reducing the time allotted to one speaker by the time he or she intrudes onto anothers allotment, so be it.

All voters deserve the opportunity to judge a debate upon the merits of who said what, rather than who was most successful at hijacking the entire process by defying those rules agreed upon by all. Ultimately, out of respect for every voter, I urge candidates to commit themselves to addressing only the moderator, filibuster-style, during each moment that any moderator fails to enforce the rules.

Linda Thorlakson, Castro Valley

Important time to vote

Since President Trump was elected, he has thumbed his nose at the rule of law, abandoned his oath of office, and has condemned anyone who has stood in his way. Its fair to say, America has been through hell in the past four years. A lot of great men and women have died because of the decisions and tweets that he has made.

He has led us down a dark path full of lies and deception. Moreover, he has done more to hurt the U.S. economy by battling with China, in lock-step with his failing Trump empire, than he is willing to ever admit.

He has terminated a staggering number of senior-level White House officials. Many have referred to him as having the understanding of a sixth-grader, a mob boss, an idiot, an unhinged man, a misogynist and bigot, and the list goes on. During Trumps presidency, weve had to do an about-face toward distinguishing racism, a right to citizenship and what it means to be an American.

Some of us have had to fight against racial injustice. We have all had to fight the coronavirus pandemic, and more lives have been lost than in Vietnam. We depend on our government to protect us from terrorists, both foreign and domestic, and lead us by being truthful and thoughtful about how to bring us together, despite our differences. This election, which is predicted to be one of the largest in our nations history in regard to voting by mail, we must vote with our hearts, as well as our minds, because if we fail, it may have grave consequences for the future of all Americans  no matter who sits on the Supreme Court.

William Booker, University Park, Ill.

End white supremacy

White Supremacy is the belief that white people are superior to all other races, especially the Black race, and should therefore dominate society.

All American institutions were designed to reproduce racial inequality and this has been accomplished with ease. Indeed, the problem is so ingrained in our society that it is difficult to even discuss it. It takes a great deal of courage to interfere with racism, especially when people in power, such as a U.S. president, refuse to acknowledge the problem.

Racial inequality turns especially toxic in precarious economic times and is evidenced by Black- and brown-skinned people earning less than their white brothers and sisters.

The president recently paid homage to the group Proud Boys, who believe white men in Western culture are under siege and fear a white genocide in the U.S. This organization glorifies violence with one of its members forming the Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Va.

The President told the Proud Boys organization to stand back and stand by. Shortly afterward, a Proud Boys organizer went on social media and quoted the president. It seems to me that it is time for America to discuss white privilege.

Dennis Kostecki, Sausalito

Biden should say no

Joe Biden should immediately call a news conference to announce that he will not participate in the next scheduled debates. Following the appalling spectacle that was the first debate, he should look directly into the camera and let us, his fellow citizens, know that he has too much respect for us and too much love for the office of the presidency to let this happen. He can tell us how, if elected, he will make the return of decency and dignity his very first order of business.

Ken Ball, Lincoln

A joke to the world

Thank you, Mr. President, for making the United States a laughingstock to the rest of the world.
PTR Robots is a Danish service robot company introducing a robot that can both mobilize and transfer patients-while simultaneously boosting the working environment. The invention has been developed in close collaboration with healthcare professionals at a university hospital and a nursing home. The user-friendly robot frees up time for care and nursing in a busy sector as it enables caregivers to better handle transfers and gait training of residents without having to depend on other colleagues.

The patient lifting equipment has now become mobile and intelligent. PTR Robots has developed the world's first robot solution that can flexibly drive around at institutions in the healthcare and nursing sectors. While it helps individuals with impaired functions to be transferred and rehabilitated, it relieves the strain on staff in physically burdensome and labor-intensive tasks. According to the WHO, lifting injuries account for one-third of all occupational injuries among nurses. A PTR Robot can also reduce the risk of infection, because only one caregiver is needed to perform a patient transfer.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201001005546/en/

PTR Robots was developed and tested in close collaboration with Zealand University Hospital, and Vonsildhave Nursing Home, operated by the nursing group Attendo. "The testing of PTR Robots really impressed us. We can see interesting perspectives in the way we can assist residents and patients with care and rehabilitation, but there are also interesting perspectives in terms of improving the work environment," says Sren Andersen, Managing Director, Attendo. (Photo: Business Wire)

One out of every four bedridden patients in a typical hospital is not self-reliant and therefore needs assistance from staff, both to be transferred and to be rehabilitated. The need to transfer and rehabilitate individual residents is even more pronounced at nursing homes.

The PTR Robot is designed to 'shrink' in size so it can easily fit through an ordinary doorway. This means that the robot outperforms traditional, stationary ceiling hoists in terms of flexibility. It is highly acclaimed for its user-friendliness in everyday use, which is also true for PTR Robots' parent company, Blue Ocean Robotics,' other service robots specialized in disinfection and telepresence.

"Many nursing homes, hospitals and institutions are keenly interested in our patient transfer and rehabilitation robot. If an elderly person breaks his or her hip, the robot can help him or her stand up right after the operation. The robot also accompanies the patient when taking the first steps after surgery," says Lone Jager Lindquist CEO, PTR Robots.

More dignity, freedom and efficiency

PTR Robots was developed and tested in close collaboration with Zealand University Hospital, and Vonsildhave Nursing Home, operated by the nursing group Attendo.

"The testing of PTR Robots really impressed us. We can see interesting perspectives in the way we can assist residents and patients with care and rehabilitation, but there are also interesting perspectives in terms of improving the work environment," says Sren Andersen, Managing Director, Attendo.

At the new university hospital in Kge, Denmark, Project Director Helle Gaub predicts that increasing numbers of patients will have to rely on being assisted in the future.

"When making a large investment in new hospital buildings, developing an innovative approach to lifting technology is essential in creating a flexible deliverance of healthcare. Being able to lift and move patients in all rooms and areas is essential for an effective use of resources, and this is why we at Zealand University Hospital prioritize being a partner in developing solutions of future healthcare." says Helle Gaub.

There are countless everyday situations in the healthcare and nursing sectors where patients have to be transferred: from bed to wheelchair, from wheelchair to toilet or shower chair and in emergencies after an accidental fall or from an ambulance stretcher to a hospital bed. The robot's rehabilitation functions are equally important because they can help patients be more self-reliant in everyday routines. These situations include gait training after a stroke where the robot can be set up to bear more or less of the patient's body weight.

At Vonsildhave Nursing Home, the management sees great potential in the PTR Robots:

"The robot instills a sense of dignity in the patients simply because it can make many more transfers with greater flexibility. I am particularly pleased with the rehabilitating function because it gives residents such a high level of freedom. They can train in their own surroundings with their customary caregivers and other residents. Also, they do this in the setting they are accustomed to residing and living in. At the same time, their enhanced mobility is enormously valuable for the residents' well-being and quality of life," notes Ditte Korsager, Center Director, Vonsildhave Nursing Home.

Synergized development of service robots

PTR Robots is a subsidiary of Blue Ocean Robotics, which has already revolutionized the service robot market via subsidiaries such as UVD Robots and GoBe Robots. The company's disinfection robots and telepresence robots have indisputably proven their legitimacy. The COVID-19 pandemic has only intensified the interest in the new opportunities created by the technologies in the healthcare sector, as well as in many other sectors that want to ensure clean surroundings and overcome long distances and closed borders.

"With PTR Robots we have created a brand-new product category in the area of patient transfers and rehabilitation, similar to what we did with UV disinfection with our subsidiary UVD Robots," says Claus Risager, CEO, at Blue Ocean Robotics, and now Chairman of the Board at PTR Robots..

UVD Robots are currently used to disinfect hospitals, hotels, food processing plants, clean rooms in the pharmaceutical industry, airports, train stations, preschools and much more all over the world.

"Our innovative service robots address many of the world's crucial challenges. At Blue Ocean Robotics, we've built up profound domain knowledge of service robots, and we proudly note that our solutions are a natural component of daily tasks at workplaces in more than 60 countries," says Claus Risager, CEO, Blue Ocean Robotics.

About PTR Robots and Blue Ocean Robotics

PTR Robot is a subsidiary of Blue Ocean Robotics, a world-leading group in the development of professional service robots that also includes brands such as GoBe Robots, UVD Robots and Mink Robots. Blue Ocean Robotics is headquartered in Odense, Denmark-Europe's 'Robot Capital'-where the group develops, manufactures and sells professional service robots to the healthcare, hospitality, construction and agricultural sectors. The robots are developed from problem, idea and design to development and commercialization, all the way to upscaling. Each type of robot is organized in its own subsidiary, which makes Blue Ocean Robotics the world's first Robot Venture Factory.

Press photo/portraits of Lone Jager Lindquist

PTR Robot's product photos

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201001005546/en/

Contacts:

Merima Cikotic

Blue Ocean Robotics

mc@blue-ocean-robotics.com

+45 71-99-56-06
Thirteen people were killed and 15 others injured when fire broke out at a tourist site in north Chinas Shanxi province on Thursday, local authorities said.

The fire engulfed an exhibition hall of snow sculptures at around 1 pm at the Taitaishan scenic site in Xiaoshanyan Village in Taiyuan, capital of Shanxi, the provincial government said.

All the 15 injured have been rushed to hospitals and are in stable condition. Investigation has been launched into the cause of the fire, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

Millions of Chinese flocked to tourist sites as China declared an eight-day holiday on Thursday to celebrate the 71st anniversary of the founding of the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) and the Mid-Autumn Festival.

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Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip have been married since before she became queen. The two tied the knot back in 1947, and the queen took the throne in 1952. Stepping into such a major role proved to be a significant adjustment for the two  and it caused their marriage to struggle, though they managed to get back on track.

Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip | Alastair Grant/AFP/Getty Images

Some people didnt think Philip was fit to marry the queen

When the queen and Philip started dating, not everyone was sure about the matchup. Philip, who was born in Greece and technically royalty, had been exiled from his home country as a baby. Philip had a difficult childhood, with his father leaving and his mother going through various health issues. As a result, he was shuffled around to boarding schools in various countries, giving him far less stability in his upbringing than the queen was given.

Though Philip grew on the royal family, there was still some uncertainty about the couple. According to Biography, the prince was seen as foreign and poor, which, at the time, were two attributes that were looked down upon in the royal family. The queens father requested that the two keep their engagement to themselves until the queen was 21.

Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip at their wedding | Keystone/Getty Images

RELATED: These Are the Most Impractical Things Queen Elizabeth II Requires the Royal Family To Do

The royal rules and traditions put strain on the couples marriage

After Philip and the queen wed in 1947, there were many adjustments to be made. Philip was now a royal, and not just any royal  he was the husband to the future queen. He gave up his Greek royal title and became known as Prince Philip and the Duke of Edinburgh, among other titles.

When Queen Elizabeth stepped into the throne, things grew even more complex for Philip. He now had to walk several steps behind his wife, as per tradition. And he was disappointed that he could no longer have a career in the military. I thought I was going to have a career in the Navy, but it became obvious there was no hope. There was no choice, he said, according to Biography. These changes tested the couples marriage, as they were tough for Philip to get used to.

Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth with Prince Charles and Princess Anne | Keystone/Hulton Archive/Getty Images

There are rumors Philip cheated on his wife

Throughout the couples marriage, there have been rumors that Philip was unfaithful. The prince was reportedly involved with an unnamed woman in the 1950s, whom he met up with behind the queens back. There were further rumors that Philip had been secretly having an affair with dancer Patricia Kirkwood while the queen was pregnant. The rumors, though never confirmed, ruined Kirkwoods career.

The prince has always vehemently denied being involved with other women during his marriage. But royal affairs were common back then  and some might say they still are.
By Nailia Bagirova and Nvard Hovhannisyan

BAKU/YEREVAN (Reuters) - The presidents of France, Russia and the United States called on Thursday for an immediate ceasefire between Azerbaijan and ethnic Armenian forces around Nagorno-Karabakh, but Turkey said the three big powers should have no role in peace moves.

France, Russia and the United States are co-chairs of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe's (OSCE) Minsk Group, set up in 1992 to mediate in the decades-old conflict over the mountainous enclave in the South Caucasus.

They appealed for peace as the death toll rose in the heaviest clashes since the 1990s around Nagorno-Karabakh - part of Azerbaijan, but run by its mostly ethnic Armenian inhabitants.

"We call for an immediate cessation of hostilities between the relevant military forces," the joint French, Russian and U.S. statement said.

They urged the ex-Soviet republics of Armenia and Azerbaijan to "commit without delay to resuming substantive negotiations, in good faith and without preconditions" under what is called the Minsk process.

But in a speech to the Turkish parliament just before the three countries' statement, President Tayyip Erdogan said he opposed their involvement.

"Given that the USA, Russia and France have neglected this problem for nearly 30 years, it is unacceptable that they are involved in a search for a ceasefire," Erdogan said.

He said a lasting ceasefire could be achieved only if "Armenian occupiers" withdrew from Nagorno-Karabakh.

His comments are likely to fuel tension with his NATO allies as fears mount that the conflict could draw in regional powers Russia, which has a military base in majority Christian Armenia, and Turkey, a close ally of mainly Muslim Azerbaijan.

The conflict moved closer to the Armenian capital of Yerevan late Thursday as the government reported four "enemy" drones downed near the city.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said on social media that the four drones appeared in Armenian airspace in the provinces of Kotayk and Gegharkunik, and Armenian air defence forces had destroyed them. A Reuters witness in the city saw a glowing object in the sky.

Story continues

MOUNTING DEATH TOLL

Dozens of people have been reported killed and hundreds wounded since Sunday in fighting that has renewed concern about stability in the South Caucasus, a corridor for pipelines carrying oil and gas to world markets.

Nagorno-Karabakh broke away from Azerbaijan in a 1991-94 war that killed 30,000 people, but is not recognised internationally as an independent republic.

Azerbaijan's civilian death toll has risen to 19, with 55 wounded, its prosecutor general's office said. Azerbaijan has not reported on casualties among its military forces.

Nagorno-Karabakh has said 103 of its troops have been killed and more than 200 wounded, while 11 civilians have been reported dead and more than 60 wounded.

Armenia said two French nationals working for France's Le Monde newspaper had been wounded during Azeri shelling of the town of Martuni in Nagorno-Karabakh.

The Nagorno-Karabakh region's foreign ministry said the two journalists had been operated on by local doctors. An Armenian government source said they were in critical condition and had been transported to Yerevan.

French President Emmanuel Macron and Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed on the need for a ceasefire in a telephone call late on Wednesday. Their joint statement with U.S. President Donald Trump was issued hours later on Thursday.

Macron's office said he and Putin had shared "concern regarding the sending of Syrian mercenaries by Turkey to Nagorno-Karabakh".

A Kremlin statement did not mention this. But the Russian news agency TASS quoted the Kremlin as saying the alleged deployment of fighters from Syria and Libya to Nagorno-Karabakh was extremely dangerous.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and his Turkish counterpart had spoken by phone and expressed their willingness to cooperate closely to stabilise the situation, Lavrov's ministry said.

Turkey has said it will "do what is necessary" to support Azerbaijan, but has denied sending mercenaries.

Macron, whose country is home to about 600,000 people of Armenian origin, has accused Turkey of "warlike" rhetoric.

A German government source said EU leaders would discuss the conflict at an ongoing summit meeting.

(Additional reporting by Elisabeth Pineau, John Irish and Michel Rose in Paris, by Darya Korsunskaya, Katya Golubkova and Maxim Rodionov in Moscow, and by Daren Butler and Ezgi Erkoyun in Turkey; Writing by Timothy Heritage; Editing by Kevin Liffey, Mark Heinrich and Rosalba O'Brien)
Russian armed formations continue to violate the agreement reached by the Trilateral Contact Group (TCG) on July 22 on additional measures to strengthen the ceasefire in Donbas. On September 21-27, invaders launched 16 attacks on the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

"During the week of September 21-27, the armed formations of the Russian Federation resorted to armed provocations and committed other violations of the TCG's decision on additional measures to strengthen the ceasefire reached on July 22. In particular, they violated the ceasefire 16 times, firing grenade launchers, heavy machine guns, and small arms on positions of the Ukrainian Armed Forces," Deputy Permanent Representative of Ukraine to International Organizations in Vienna Ihor Lossovsky said at a meeting of the OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation in Vienna on September 30, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

In addition, on September 23, Russian armed formations twice used UAVs in the Sea of Azov region to cross the demarcation line. Ukrainian forces had to use electronic warfare to stop this prohibited activity.

Also, as confirmed by the OSCE SMM reports, Russian occupation forces continue to build up their military presence in the conflict zone, by accumulating weapons and military equipment in the area of the contact line and mining territories. In particular, the Ukrainian diplomat pointed to the 21 Grad 122mm multiple rocket launchers detected by the Mission near the temporarily occupied settlement of Khrustalny.

"Such actions jeopardize the ceasefire agreement and pose a serious threat to the lives of civilians. The capabilities of these systems, especially if used simultaneously, are alarming. Their coverage area can reach 31.5 square kilometers," Lossovsky said.

The Ukrainian diplomat drew special attention to the revealed facts of the use of mines by Russian armed groups in Donbas, including banned anti-personnel mines, which "also clearly shows Russia's disregard for international agreements."

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A plane chartered by the Home Office flew a single Channel migrant out of the country yesterday  after last-minute legal challenges blocked 29 other removals.

The flight to France went ahead because the aircraft had already been paid for by the British taxpayer.

Lawyers for dozens of migrants who were due to be returned waited until the final possible moment to lodge appeals which would prevent them being put aboard the aircraft, Home Office sources said.

In 18 cases they lodged claims under human rights laws. Six further cases involved, for the first time, allegations of modern slavery.

This requires the Home Office to carry out further research and delays their removal. The flight, from an unnamed airport, is believed to have cost at least 100,000.

A plane chartered by the Home Office flew a single Channel migrant out of the country yesterday  after last-minute legal challenges blocked 29 other removals

The debacle adds further weight to Home Secretary Priti Patels argument that the asylum system needs root-and-branch reform.

In August, the Home Office was forced to scrap a video on its official Twitter feed because it referred to activist lawyers who were delaying and disrupting returns.

Last night a Whitehall source said: These dinghy-chasing activist lawyers just show why there must be widespread reform. Its completely unacceptable.

The solo migrant who was removed yesterday was a Sudanese national.

Five of those whose removal was postponed had already been deferred from an earlier flight.

Under EU rules known as the Dublin III Regulation, asylum seekers who have previously claimed refugee status in another EU country can be returned there.

The debacle adds further weight to Home Secretary Priti Patels argument that the asylum system needs root-and-branch reform

But the current law allows lawyers to submit challenges at any stage of the process, including at the last minute. Miss Patel has said she wants to streamline the legal system so all grounds of appeal must be lodged at the beginning of a case.

Last night a Home Office spokesman said: On this mornings flight we received a large number of first-time human rights claims, which have to be given appropriate periods of consideration.

The Governments efforts to facilitate entirely legitimate and legal returns of people who have entered the UK through illegal routes are too often frustrated by last-minute challenges submitted hours before a scheduled flight.

These claims are very often baseless and entirely without merit, but are given full legal consideration, leading to removal being rescheduled, and can effectively result in the timing out of a return due to the stringent Dublin Regulation.

It is right that we seek to remove migrants who have travelled through a safe country and have no right to remain in the UK  people should claim asylum in the first safe country they enter and we make no apologies for pursuing removals.

A group of people thought to be migrants arrive in an inflatable boat at Kingsdown beach, near Dover, Kent, after crossing the English Channel

The flight fiasco came as it emerged the number of asylum seekers living in budget hotels has risen to more than 9,500. At the beginning of September the figure was 8,000 spread across 91 properties in 51 local authorities. The Government froze the asylum process during lockdown and deportations ground to a halt.

Those claiming asylum are entitled to 37.75 per week for food, toiletries and clothing. Matthew Rycroft, the Home Offices most senior civil servant, said: There are more people coming into the asylum system at the moment than are leaving it and that is because of Covid.

Of the 9,500 living in hotels, 1,200 have been denied asylum and are awaiting deportation, the public accounts committee heard. Around 2,500 have been granted asylum and can leave after suitable accommodation is found for them.

MPs were told that 122 asylum seekers tested positive for coronavirus in outbreaks in hotels in Birmingham and Wakefield, West Yorkshire.
This campaign is one of the most important and high-profile races in the state, OBrien wrote in a statement. It is my belief that voters deserve to know the substantial differences between the candidates. I am ready and eager to debate Ms. Foxx on the record. After last nights chaotic presidential debate, the voters of Cook County want and deserve nothing less than a real debate on the issues.
Increasing use of emerging technologies and faster digital transformation will help support the recovery of aerospace and aviation, said experts on day one of the Global Aerospace Summit 2020, which began yesterday (September 28) in a virtual format.



The Summit included a line up of industry leaders from across the world who addressed audiences online regarding the aviation, aerospace, space and defence sectors biggest tests and future prospects.



Mohammed Ahmad Al Bowardi, Minister of State for Defence Affairs, United Arab Emirates, said that wherever there is ambition, innovation and creativity, humanity will find the ability to overcome difficulties, achieve the impossible and rise again. He added that the UAE has developed a unique model for dealing with this crisis to ensure the continuity of work and the resumption of normal life.



Al Bowardi highlighted that the aerospace industry plays a fundamental role in the world economy and that industrial investments in the aerospace sector represent a great portion of the major industrial countries' investments.



Sarah bint Yousef Al Amiri, Minister of State for Advanced Technology and Chairwoman, UAE Space Agency, highlighted that growth in the space sector is being driven by the need to develop new design concepts and that seemingly traditional roles in space are changing with government enabling the private sector to facilitate industry growth. H.E. added that new players entering the space sector are focussed on the development of capabilities and technological advancements.



Ahmad Al-Ohali, Governor of Saudi Arabias General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) explained how GAMI has created a framework to streamline the investment landscape so that there are no barriers to foreign investors who are interested in entering the market, as long as they partner with the Kingdom in its promising journey towards localizing the industry through building on the mutual interests and common goals.

Khaled Abdulla Al Qubaisi, Chief Executive Officer, Aerospace, Renewables & ICT, Mubadala Investment Company said that the industry is in survival mode and facing extremely tough new decisions. He added that as an industry of innovators, leaders will have to use this mode to transition to a more agile and sustainable business mode.



Faisal Al Bannai, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, EDGE addressed the effects, opportunities and lessons of disruption time and how to manage supply chains in the Arab region. H.E. spoke about how the aerospace industry is going through further iterations and evolutions with autonomous technology. Examples include the increasing use of drones, which bring more security to human workforce.



Jim Taiclet, President and Chief Executive Officer, Lockheed Martin Corporation highlighted how the organizations partners are looking to leverage emerging technologies for the benefit of their men and women in uniform and their citizens  technologies such as artificial intelligence, 5G telecommunications, quantum and distributed computing. He added that the industry should actively seek opportunities to partner with commercial technology companies and academia to bring some of these game-changing technologies into the 21st century battlespace, and build and empower the next generation of talent.



Tony Douglas, Group Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Aviation Group described how leadership in aviation and aerospace is going to be more important in difficult times like this than any time before. He spoke about how Etihad is navigating the greatest crisis in aviation history and talks of the importance of wellness, technology and sustainability as drivers for the future.



Hosted by Mubadala Investment Company and EDGE, the Summit analysed how the aerospace and aviation industries can quickly recover and where efforts must be made to support the regeneration of those sectors. The international thought leadership forum has been organised by Streamline Marketing Group and Tarsus F&E.  TradeArabia News Service




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STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- New York along with four other states announced the launch of a COVID-19 contact tracing smartphone app on Thursday.

COVID Alert NY is available for free in both the Apple and Google app stores through the New York State Department of Health, and will alert users if they are within 6 feet of a COVID-positive person for more than 10 minutes, according to Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

Its using technology really on a level thats never been used before, Cuomo said during a Thursday call with the media. I think its going to -- not only bring contact tracing to a new level -- but its going to bring people comfort.

According to the governors office, the app will not use GPS tracking or collect personal data, but will rely on Bluetooth technology to determine whether users of the app were within close contact.

#BREAKING: New York just launched COVID Alert NY, an exposure app that will alert you if you were in contact with someone who has COVID.



The app will never track your location & is completely anonymous.



Protect your community, yourself & your privacy. Download the app today   Andrew Cuomo (@NYGovCuomo) October 1, 2020

If a user tests positive, they will be given a password to enter into the app which will trigger notifications for those within 6 feet of that user for more than 10 minutes. The notifications will advise the other users to quarantine and get a COVID test.

Cuomo adviser Larry Schwartz, who led the projects development, said the app is open-source, which means anyone concerned with what the app is tracking can check for themselves.

Schwartz added that the app is fully voluntary, only for adults, and cost a combined $700,000 from federal money and donations from former Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

The other states participating in the program are New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Delaware, according to the governor, who added that it will be available to any other state in the nation that wants to use it.

Nations around the globe, including Canada, Australia, and China, and other states have launched their own versions of digital contact tracing apps. The reason New Yorks took longer was to address privacy concerns, Schwartz said.
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- About 57% of Ohios school districts are planning five-day returns to school buildings, according to an updated map from the Ohio Department of Education.

When the state initially released the map in August, about 78 school districts of 609 did not have data included, or about 13%. An updated version as of Sept. 24 shows complete data.

Districts listed as having a five-day start may have altered schedules. About 31% of school districts are returning in a hybrid format and about 12% are returning in a remote format. Remote districts seem to be scattered throughout the state, though many are clustered around urban areas.

The information published is not an official categorization, and not all districts have confirmed the plans, according to the Department of Education website. For example, East Cleveland schools is listed as a 5-day return, but is currently learning remotely.

Plans are changing quickly, too. Many schools in Cuyahoga County, as the county remained in orange, or the second-lowest coronavirus risk level in the states alert system, are now considering a return to buildings after starting the year remotely.

Ohio technically has 612 school districts, but two of of them do not have students enrolled. As of this school year, Newbury schools combined with West Geauga, bringing the total to 609.
"I was saddened to see so many fantastic men and women being suddenly let go of their position because of our current socio-economic crisis. One of the biggest casualties of the pandemic has been the loss of true experts in our industry. We want, in a small part, to be able to help by bringing these people back in the fold and make some progress forward," said Pierre Rogers, Yahyn's CEO and Founder.

Yahyn has an excellent opportunity to add to its team by reaching out to some of the industry's best sommeliers and bringing their expertise to our burgeoning enterprise. We are proud to announce that several expert sommeliers will be joining Yahyn as advisors. Among them, Alexander T. Lopez-Wilson, a Level 1 Sommelier from the Court of Master Sommeliers and the current Wine Retail Specialist from Wine Xpress in Greenville, SC, Niccolo' Andrea Saltarelli, a graduate of Les Roches International School of Hotel Management in Switzerland, who until May of this year was the Food and Beverage Manager & Wine Director at The National Bar & Dining Rooms by Geoffrey Zakarian in New York City, and Christopher Fagan, the Cellar Sommelier at famed French Laundry in Napa Valley and a Level 2 Certified Sommelier from The Court of Master Sommeliers, Fagan states: "My role is to guide our customers in making the kind of decision where they feel they are getting the best possible wine, taking in consideration pairing, pricing, and availability. He continues: Finding the perfect vintage can a difficult thing. Even more, when faced with a large selection. I can help narrow the gap and find a wine they will love."

Mr. Fagan and his colleagues are available for a consultation now on yahyn.com; you simply need to register at www.yahyn.com/login to create your unique profile. We are all in this together. And with common goals and efforts, we can, once again, bring prosperity to our industry.

About Yahyn

Yahyn is a privately-owned company headquartered in Manchester, New Hampshire, founded by seasoned entrepreneurs and technologists. With more than 1M raised in private equity in a little over five months, it is poised to revolutionize the way we purchase wine. Yahyn is the intersection between the centuries-old tradition of wine and cutting-edge technology, helping the consumer find the perfect wine to be the exclamation point on life's cherished moments. Yahyn believes that the distance to your glass measures elegant travel to the most romantic vineyards.

yahyn.com | IG: @yahynn

25 Sundial Avenue, Suite 406 | Manchester, NH 03103 | 949.691.4000

Press Contact: Yves Le Sieur

[email protected]

949.973.0616

SOURCE Yahyn

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Intensifying their protests against the new farm laws, farmers in on Thursday blocked rail tracks at many places in the state for an indefinite period as part of their 'rail roko' agitation.

Besides, farmers also said they have staged sit-ins outside houses of some BJP leaders.

A total of 31 farmers' bodies had joined hands to intensify the agitation and they had announced to block rail tracks from October 1 for an indefinite period.

Bhartiya Kisan Union (Ekta Ugrahan) general secretary Sukhdev Singh Kokrikalan on Thursday said farmers belonging to the 31 organisations have blocked rail tracks at many places in the state for an indefinite period to press the Centre to revoke new farm laws.

Kokrikalan said BKU (Ekta Ugrahan) has blocked rail tracks at Dhablan (Patiala), Sunam (Sangrur), Budhlada (Mansa) and Gidderbaha (Muktsar).

Some other farmers' unions have also blocked rail tracks in Barnala, Ludhiana, Bathinda and other places.

Farmers under the banner of the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee have been squatting at rail tracks in Amritsar and Ferozepur since September 24.

Kokrikalan said farmers have also staged sit-ins outside toll plazas in Sangrur, Barnala, Moga and Gurdaspur, besides holding 'dharnas' outside fuel pumps and shopping malls belonging to some corporate houses.

Farmers have already given a call to boycott some corporate houses and their products in the state.

According to them, the Centre wanted to"benefit"a few corporate houses with these"black laws".

BKU (Dakunda) general secretary Jagmohan Singh said all the 31 farmers' bodies have staged sit-ins at about 27 places in the state against the new farm laws.

Farmers have expressed apprehension that the Centre's farm reforms would pave a way for the dismantling of the minimum support price system, leaving them at the "mercy" of big corporates.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Sunday gave assent to the three contentious bills -- Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill; Farmers' (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill; and Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
In 2016, Kyberlight sounded the clarion call to revolutionize the lightsaber market with the launch of their V1 lightsabera high-quality, all-features-included, customizable saberbut at half the industry average price. Sweetening the deal, their offer included a lifetime blade warranty, the first of its kind in the industry, made possible by their own proprietary blend of polycarbonate material.

The response from the saber community was significant, helping Kyberlight raise over half a million dollars in just 45 days through crowdfunding, exceeding their initial capital goal by over 1000%.

Over the last 5 years, Kyberlight has been steadily improving their technology and process in an effort to continually disrupt the tired and expensive lightsaber market. And now, Kyberlight is at it again.

With the announcement of their V5 lightsaber on September 4th, 2020, Kyberlight is changing the lightsaber game once again by bringing advanced feature-sets, normally reserved for expensive sabers, into the affordable market atyet againhalf the industry average price.

"There are a lot of really cool options out there," said saber enthusiast Ned Kizzo, "but they'll hit the wallet like a Death Star blast. You take the price point of Kyberlight's V5, though, and the features they include standardyou know, Smooth Swing, multiple built-in blade colors, Lifetime Blade Warranty, et cetera, et ceterathat's...that's the best bang for your buck you can get."

The response to Kyberlight's new V5 has been equally emphatic. Faster than a Millennium Falcon, their ongoing Indiegogo campaign, launched on September 23rd, has already funded in 48 hours and the number of backers continues to climb. Watch out because here comes Kyberlight to revolutionize the lightsaber industry again. Visit the Indiegogo Campaign now to reserve your V5 Kyberlight Saber.

To explore and back the campaign visit us at: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/kyberlight-v5-lightsaber/x/24639499?create_edit=true#/

SOURCE Kyberlight LLC

Related Links

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It used to be that the word safe was only used with elections referring to an incumbent who didnt have an opponent  they were deemed safe. But those days are long gone. The question of secure voting equipment, voter databases, and now during a pandemic, safe precincts, are all hot topics of conversation and cause of concern.

Equipment  Conventions of people hacking old voting equipment have made the news as has remotely accessing tabulators. In 2017, each County Clerk had a choice of three vendors for new voting equipment. I chose Hart, the only vendor with a federally certified secure results transmission solution. Also, the equipment is programmed to only accept ballots we have printed for only that precinct in that municipality. I should add that our voting equipment does not touch the internet and that Michigan law requires all voting equipment to be tested before and on Election Day. Recently, I worked with the countys IT department to audit our elections division  our processes, our equipment, etc. and we received a glowing report for everything in our control. When the State Bureau of Elections announced the ability to use multifactor authentication in using the qualified voter file, I was one of the first to sign up myself and staff in our Elections division. We started using it the first day it was available. This is important because voter databases are what were targeted by hackers in 2016.

Information  People should be leery of social media posts, ads, mailers and rumors. When I held a drive thru voter registration drive, a woman came by and shared a mail piece she received. It did not have a paid for by disclosure but was targeted at voters of one of the major parties. It stated multiple times to return your absentee ballot to your County Clerk. While that is how elections are run in 46 of other states, it is not how elections are run in Michigan. Our elections are decentralized with some responsibilities falling on your city or township clerk, some on the County and some on the State Bureau of Elections (BOE). The mailer also stated that voting begins September 20. Also not true here in Michigan. Be sure you are getting information from a trusted source.

Voting  I am proud to be part of VoteSafe, a cross-partisan coalition committed to the principle that voters should have accessible, secure mail-in ballots and safe, in-person voting sites.

Polls have shown a large majority of voters prefer to vote absentee, which was evidenced in the primary. In Oakland County, over 70% of the electorate cast their ballot outside of the precinct. For those who still vote in the precinct, many steps have been taken to keep workers and voters safe and healthy. The BOE has offered many times, to purchase PPE for precincts. Specifically, for each request a precinct will be sent 50 masks, 100 gloves, 5 face shields, and hand sanitizer. You can bring your own pen to complete your ballot, just make sure it is blue or black ink. As I said, many are voting absentee and questioning the USPS. I encourage those who have a ballot drop box in their community to use it. (you can check Michigan.gov/Vote to find the location and a lot of helpful voting information) Remember, the ballot drop box must be in the community you live in. Dont, for example, use a drop box where you work. While a recent court decision said that ballots postmarked by November 2 can be counted 14 days after the Election, court decisions can change. I recommend voters return their ballots as soon as possible to ensure it gets counted.

Ballots  Finally, the law requires 100% ballots be ordered for November, meaning one ballot for every registered voter even though we have never had 100% turnout. To be safe, we ordered 110%, to allow for lost or spoiled ballots.

These are unusual times and unfortunately there are bad actors who want to disrupt our election. Dont allow disinformation and misinformation to shake your confidence in our democratic process. If you hear or see something that doesnt seem right, check with my office or your local clerk to either validate or invalidate it. Every election is important. I encourage all citizens to exercise your right to vote. Every vote counts.

Lisa Brown is Oakland County Clerk/Register of Deeds
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Bharat Book Bureau Provides the Trending Market Research Report on Students and Workers Non-residential Accommodation Global Market Report 2020-30: Covid 19 Impact and Recoveryunder Services Category. The report offers a collection of superior market research, market analysis, competitive intelligence and Market reports.

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Description:

Where is the largest and fastest growing market for the students and workers non-residential accommodation? How does the market relate to the overall economy, demography and other similar markets? What forces will shape the market going forward? The Students And Workers Non-residential Accommodation market global report from the Business Research Company answers all these questions and many more.

The report covers market characteristics, size and growth, segmentation, regional and country breakdowns, competitive landscape, market shares, trends and strategies for this market. It traces the markets historic and forecast market growth by geography. It places the market within the context of the wider students and workers non-residential accommodation market, and compares it with other markets.

 The market characteristics section of the report defines and explains the market.

 The market size section gives the market size ($b) covering both the historic growth of the market, the impact of the Covid 19 virus and forecasting its recovery.

 Market segmentations break down market into sub markets.

 The regional and country breakdowns section gives an analysis of the market in each geography and the size of the market by geography and compares their historic and forecast growth. It covers the impact and recovery trajectory of Covid 19 for all regions, key developed countries and major emerging markets.

 Competitive landscape gives a description of the competitive nature of the market, market shares, and a description of the leading companies. Key financial deals which have shaped the market in recent years are identified.

 The trends and strategies section analyses the shape of the market as it emerges from the crisis and suggests how companies can grow as the market recovers.

 The students and workers non-residential accommodation market section of the report gives context. It compares the students and workers non-residential accommodation market with other segments of the non-residential accommodation services market by size and growth, historic and forecast. It analyses GDP proportion, expenditure per capita, students and workers non-residential accommodation indicators comparison.

Scope

Markets Covered:

1) By Type: Dormitories, Off Campus Establishments; Migrant Workers' Camps

2) By Price Point: Economy; Mid-Range; Luxury

3) By Channel: Direct Sales; Distributor

4) By Mode of Booking: Online Bookings; Direct Bookings; Others

Companies Mentioned: Centurion Corporation; American Campus Communities; Education Realty Trust Inc; Unite Group Inc; Campus Crest Communities Inc

Metrics Covered: Number of Enterprises; Number of Employees

Countries: Argentina; Australia; Austria; Belgium; Brazil; Canada; Chile; China; Colombia; Czech Republic; Denmark; Egypt; Finland; France; Germany; Hong Kong; India; Indonesia; Ireland; Israel; Italy; Japan; Malaysia; Mexico; Netherlands; New Zealand; Nigeria; Norway; Peru; Philippines; Poland; Portugal; Romania; Russia; Saudi Arabia; Singapore; South Africa; South Korea; Spain; Sweden; Switzerland; Thailand; Turkey; UAE; UK; USA; Venezuela; Vietnam

Regions: Asia-Pacific; Western Europe; Eastern Europe; North America; South America; Middle East; Africa

Time series: Five years historic and ten years forecast.

Data: Ratios of market size and growth to related markets, GDP proportions, expenditure per capita, students and workers non-residential accommodation indicators comparison.

Data segmentations: country and regional historic and forecast data, market share of competitors, market segments.

Sourcing and Referencing: Data and analysis throughout the report is sourced using end notes.

Western Europe was the largest region in the global students and workers non-residential accommodation market, accounting for 29% of the market in 2019. North America was the second largest region accounting for 29% of the global students and workers non-residential accommodation market. Africa was the smallest region in the global students and workers non-residential accommodation market.

Developers and designers are beginning to focus on creating micro-housing units that provide housing options near universities at a reasonable price. Micro housing provides students with miniature spaces set up for sleeping, study and preparing simple meals. With the rise in the student enrollment and worker population, micro unit houses give students and workers access to affordable accommodation. Many cities and countries are experimenting with micro-housing to meet the growing demand for affordable student and worker accommodation. For example, University Student Living of The Michaels Organization is currently developing micro units near Boston University between 325 and 400 square feet each offering a private kitchen and bathroom.

The non-residential accommodation market consists of sales of non-residential accommodation services and related goods by entities (organizations, sole traders and partnerships) that operate rooming and boarding houses and similar facilities, such as off campus dormitories, residential clubs, and workers' camps. These establishments provide temporary or longer-term accommodation, which, for the period of occupancy, may serve as a principal residence. These establishments also may provide complementary services, such as housekeeping, meals, and laundry services.

The global students and workers non-residential accommodation market is expected to grow from $11 billion in 2019 to $11.4 billion in 2020 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.1%. The low growth is mainly due to economic slowdown across countries owing to the COVID-19 outbreak and the measures to contain it. The market is then expected to recover and grow at a CAGR of 14% from 2021 and reach $16.2 billion in 2023.

Browse our full report with Table of Content : https://www.bharatbook.com/marketreports/students-and-workers-non-residential-accommodation-global-market-report-2020-30-covid-19-impact-and-recovery/2059307

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Mayor Sylvester Turner on Wednesday rolled out his task forces report on policing reform in Houston, but said he needed more time to digest the 153-page report before taking action on its recommendations.

The task force lists 104 reforms the city could enact to improve policing in Houston, which the Chronicle previously reported.

Among them: a fundamentally revamped oversight board with full-time investigative staff, a blanket ban on no-knock warrants for nonviolent offenses, the public release of body camera footage within 30 days of critical incidents, more stringent rules on police officer misconduct and an online process for complaints about police behavior.

Turner said his initial read indicated the report was comprehensive. He embraced revamping the oversight board  a conclusion he said he reached before the report was released  but declined to say when recommendations would be adopted.

If you can just give me a few days to really digest it, and then to visit with Chairman (Laurence) Payne and the sub-chairs, and some of the members of city council, Id be in a much better position, Turner said when asked about implementation. Literally, I just got it yesterday.

In the report, the task force pleads with the mayor to adopt its recommendations, saying the guidance from past groups too often has been left on the shelf. The document lays out an accountability timelines with measures that can be implemented in 90 days (such as appointing patrol officers to long-term assignments), six-to-12 months (implementing changes to the promotion process) and long-term (overhaul the police board).

Payne said he and the task force would work with the mayor on timing, saying lets not even try to jump the gun.

We worked hard on this being a document that isnt going to sit on a shelf, that will have actionable items, that will be implemented, Payne said. And we're going to stay committed with him, we're not disappearing, we're not going away, so we're going to make sure this happens.

Turner said he would seek to follow the timeline as best as I can.

Payne asked residents to print the document, visit the Say Their Name memorial in Emancipation Park and then go somewhere quiet to read the booklet.

We have a way out. This document is the starting point. We have a way forward, said Payne.

Turner convened the task force in June, and it was met with widespread skepticism from advocates who said it could be used to stall on substantive reforms. The group met behind closed doors for three months, honing the 100-plus suggestions as calls for reform outside City Hall grew.

Rain Eatmon, an organizer with Houston Justice, said it was disheartening the mayor did not offer more details on implementing the findings. Houston Justice is part of the Right2Justice Coalition, which released its own recommendations in a July 4 report called Justice Cant Wait.

It appears that we are still being made to do so in this late hour, said Eatmon.

We know that change comes from the push of the people, said Carla Brailey, a Texas Southern University professor and task force member. And the people pushed us to have this moment.

Lacy Wolf, business manager with International Association of Heat & Frost Insulators & Allied Workers, said he was among those skeptical, even after he was named to the group.

When labor took a look at this task force that was being formed, we were thinking to ourselves this would be a failure, a futile exercise, Wolf said at Wednesdays news conference. But I have to say  It was an amazing event.

Councilmember Letitia Plummer, who unsuccessfully pushed for reforms in the city budget, said she too had extremely low expectations.

After reading the document, I can say these are comprehensive recommendations that encompass the spirit of my budget amendments, Plummer said. Its time to legislate, and I look forward to embracing my role.

If adopted, its recommendations would mark the most substantive changes to policing in Houston since protests following the Minneapolis police killing of George Floyd. Turner has signed two executive orders in the meantime: A June order that limited certain uses of force; and an order Monday opting HPD into a Harris County cite-and-release program, which seeks to divert misdemeanor offenders from jail.

A major recommendation is revamping the oversight board, a group of volunteer citizens that in its current make-up reviews completed investigations from the Internal Affairs Division. The report calls for upgrading that group with a full-time, professional staff and facilities outside the police department.

The report also calls for the public release of body camera footage within 30 days of critical incidents. That was a major call among protesters this summer after a string of six police killings in Houston. Currently, the police chief determines when to release such footage, and Houston Police Chief Art Acevedo has expressed concern that releasing them could jeopardize criminal investigations of the officers.

The report also proposed several changes that Houston Police Officers Union would have to agree to in their contract. Those include how the department handles allegations of police misconduct, such as extending the window to discipline officers, which would likely spark pushback from rank-and-file officers.

Additionally, the task force recommended tripling the Crisis Intervention Response Team program, which pairs licensed mental health clinicians with law enforcement officers. The departments 12 teams respond as back-up to calls with mental health components, and the report lauded its performance on those calls.
"The fire probably moved four to six miles today and its into Colorado," he said.

Peterson said multiple factors are contributing to the speed of the fire's spread.

"First off, the fuel has to be there," he said. "This is a forest that has a lot of beetle kill and its dry as a bone. Then you have the winds."

On Wednesday, the Albany County Sheriff's Office announced that 29 homes and 31 outbuildings have so far been destroyed by the fire.

Winds have been a constant challenge for fire crews, though they have slowed somewhat. Gusts of 20 mph were forecast for the area on Thursday.

Last week, authorities said they suspect the fire is human caused, though they have not offered details.

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Rahul Gandhi, his sister Priyanka were detained by the Uttar Pradesh police on Thursday near Yamuna Expressway when the duo, after being stopped on the highway, decided to march to Hathras to meet the family of Uttar Pradesh woman who was gang-raped and died in a Delhi hospital earlier this week.

The former Congress president alleged that he was pushed to the ground and struck with a lathi by the police.

Pictures from the scene showed Gandhi being held back by the policemen, while one of the frames captured him taking a tumble and falling to the ground as the pushback by police continued. The party workers quickly gathered around to pick him up. The police are citing the imposition of Section 144, which prohibits the assembly of four or more people, to deny Gandhis.

I am standing here peacefully. I want to march alone to Hathras. Section 144 talks about public assembly. I will go alone to Hathras. On what basis are you detaining me, asked Rahul Gandhi in Hindi to the cops present on the scene.

The 19-year-old Dalit woman, who died in a Delhi hospital on Tuesday a fortnight after she was gang-raped at Hathras while she was out to collect fodder with her mother, was cremated in the early hours of Wednesday, with her family alleging the local police forced them to conduct the last rites in the dead of the night.

Earlier, members of Dalit groups and activists alleged that the early morning cremation was done to prevent any mobilisation or protests in the village.

The whole world is watching how the government and the police together cremated our sister in the absence of her family. I have been taken into custody and put under house arrest in Saharanpur; but we will continue to fight, said Chandrasekhar Azad, chief of the Bhim Army, who had led protests outside Delhis Safdarjung Hospital on Tuesday.
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The D.C. report released Tuesday comes months after the Capital Area Food Banks hunger report from July, which projected an increase of up to 60 percent in food insecurity across the region this year. That report said the pandemic would push up to 250,000 people into hunger in D.C., Montgomery and Prince Georges counties in Maryland, and Arlington, Fairfax and Prince William counties and the city of Alexandria in Virginia.
A Russian hacker who was found guilty of hacking LinkedIn Dropbox , and Formspring over eight years ago has finally been sentenced to 88 months in United States prison, that's more than seven years by a federal court in San Francisco this week.

Yevgeniy Aleksandrovich Nikulin, 32, of Moscow hacked into servers belonging to three American social media firms, including LinkedIn, Dropbox, and now-defunct social-networking firm Formspring, and stole data on over 200 million users.

Between March and July 2012, Nikulin hacked into the computers of LinkedIn, Dropbox, and Formspring, and installed malware on them, which allowed him to remotely download user databases of over 117 Million LinkedIn users and more than 68 Million Dropbox users.

According to the prosecutor, Nikulin also worked with unnamed co-conspirators of a Russian-speaking cybercriminal forum to sell customer data he stole as a result of his hacks.

Besides hacking into the three social media firms, Nikulin has also been accused of gaining access to LinkedIn and Formspring employees' credentials, which helped him carry out the computer hacks.

"The Court also found that Automattic, parent company of Wordpress.com, was the victim of an intrusion by defendant, although there was no evidence that defendant stole any customer credentials," the Justice Department said.

Nikulin was arrested in Prague on October 5, 2016, by Interpol agents working in collaboration with the FBI, and extradited to the United States in March 2018 after a long extradition battle between the U.S. and Russia.

In 2016, the hacker was charged with nine felony counts of computer intrusion, aggravated identity theft, causing damage to a protected computer, trafficking in unauthorized access devices, and conspiracy.

However, after a long delay of trials due to the coronavirus pandemic, Nikulin was found guilty by a federal jury of the United States in early July this year and was sentenced to 88 months in prison on September 29.

U.S. District Judge William H. Alsup convicted Nikulin of selling stolen usernames and passwords, installing malware on protected computers, conspiracy, computer intrusion, and aggravated identity theft.

Prior to the sentencing hearing on September 29, federal prosecutors sought a sentence of 145 months in prison, that's over 12 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and restitution.

Nikulin has been in U.S. custody since his extradition from the Czech Republic and will be serving his sentence effect immediately.
PARIS, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Eurazeo is pleased to announce it has completed a $25 million minority investment in Dewey's Bakery, a clean-label cookie and cracker manufacturer based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Eurazeo Brands, the division of Eurazeo focused on differentiated consumer brands with global growth potential, is investing alongside Chairman and majority owner Scott Livengood, and incoming Chief Executive Officer Mike Senackerib, who joins Dewey's Bakery as part of Eurazeo's investment.

Founded in 1930, Dewey's Bakery produces premium soft baked cookies, crisp cookie thins, and savory crackers featuring delicious, authentic, and bakery-inspired flavors. Dewey's is a leading manufacturer of custom-branded products for the largest food retailers in the US and an emerging national brand in natural, specialty, and mainline grocery channels. The Company also operates several retail bakeries in the Winston-Salem area with longstanding roots in the local community.

Scott Livengood, Chairman of Dewey's Bakery, said:

"Dewey's could not be more excited to partner with Eurazeo Brands and Mike Senackerib on this new chapter of growth for our company. Dewey's has established a strong presence in both specialty food retailers and supermarkets across the country driven by our amazing products, capabilities, and team. With access to Eurazeo's deep resources and know-how, paired with Mike's proven leadership working on some of the most iconic brands in F&B, we aim to become a leader in our category in the years ahead."

Senackerib is a seasoned food and beverage executive and brings deep category operating expertise to Dewey's as CEO. Highly regarded as a leader and brand builder in the food industry, he has 30+ years of experience across a wide array of successful brands. Mike held senior executive and marketing roles at Nabisco (Mondelez), Kraft Foods, and Campbell Soup Company. He served as Senior Vice President and General Manager of Nabisco's portfolio of cookie and cracker brands, including Oreo's, Ritz, Wheat Thins, Triscuit, and others. Most recently, Senackerib was co-founder of start-up food company Farm & Oven Snacks.

Mike Senackerib, CEO of Dewey's Bakery, added:

"I am thrilled to join Dewey's and work alongside Scott Livengood and Eurazeo Brands on the Company's exciting journey. Scott and his team have created an exceptional product offering that is poised for continued success as consumers increasingly seek authentic brands with high quality ingredients and delicious flavors. I see tremendous opportunity for Dewey's to break through as a stand-out brand rooted in a rich and authentic history."

Leveraging its proven brand building, operating, and consumer expertise, Eurazeo Brands will partner with Dewey's to accelerate and enhance its marketing activities and manufacturing capabilities in order to grow both its branded product business and support its longstanding private label division.

Jill Granoff, CEO of Eurazeo Brands, said:

"We have followed Dewey's success over the years and are delighted to partner with Scott and Mike to drive further growth. We believe Dewey's unique products, proven manufacturing capabilities, strong customer relationships, and leadership team are a recipe for continued momentum in a growing category."

Jim Goldman, senior advisor to Eurazeo and a seasoned food and beverage executive, and George Birman, principal at Eurazeo Brands, will join Dewey's Board of Directors. This marks Eurazeo Brands' seventh investment since May 2017 and its third investment within food and beverage.

About Dewey's Bakery

Since 1930, Dewey's has been a celebrated local bakery brand in North Carolina, creating delicious, unique, and high quality sweet and savory treats that reflect local flavors and traditions. In 2006, Scott Livengood, former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Krispy Kreme, acquired Dewey's Bakery and further developed the company's unique capabilities, growing the business across multiple channels including Dewey's branded cookies and crackers, owned retail bakeries, e-commerce, and private label manufacturing.

About Eurazeo

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Officials with the National Aboriginal Trust Officers Association (NATOA) are keen to get their message out.

Their inaugural Indigenous Youth Virtual Summit, a three-day event titled Developing Tools For Success, will be staged Oct. 6 to Oct. 8 and it is free.

Presentations at the summit will includes financial literacy, entrepreneurship and mental health.

The event is designed for Indigenous people across Canada between the ages of 16 and 35, and will feature a Q&A with actor Adam Beach.

When registration for the summit opened this past March, organizers were charging a fee of $75 to attend. But NATOA officials have since decided to change the registration and make it a free event for all delegates.

Michele Young-Crook, NATOAs president and CEO, said she was hearing reports individuals were keen to attend, but the registration fee was proving difficult.

The biggest obstacle was the funding, Young-Crook said. They just didnt have the money. Especially with the pandemic now, even though it may be $75, some people didnt have that in their budget.

Organizers have seen their sign-up numbers jump dramatically in recent weeks since it became a free event.

About 250 people have registered now. Young-Crook believes the number could inch closer to 300 by next week when the summit will be staged.

Since it is an online event, there is no limit on the number of summit attendees.

NATOAs office is based in Hagersville, Ont., near the Six Nations community of Ohsweken.

Though there are some individuals from Ontario who have signed up for its youth summit, the majority are from either British Columbia or Alberta.

Young-Crook believes thats because those two provinces have more Indigenous youth, who are living near large urban centres that also have colleges and universities.

Young-Crook said her association, which has been around for 14 years and became a registered charity in 2014, has staged a number of events in the past. Some of those have been aimed at those who have become trustees, councillors or chiefs in their communities.

But NATOA officials were keen to offer presentations to younger individuals as well.

We wanted to give them the same tools as others, Young-Crook said.

The agenda for the opening day of the summit, Oct. 6, will focus on mental health.

Following a welcome introduction, there will be trained and certified youth speakers sharing personal stories and other mental health information to both educate and inspire young people to look out for themselves and their peers.

Opening day will also include self-care and social media workshops and the session with Beach.

The second day of the summit will focus on financial literacy. There will be presentations on basic budgeting, building credit, financial literacy for family, and financial literacy for working and traveling abroad.

The summits final day will focus on entrepreneurship.

The opening presentation will be on developing a good business plan. Other presentations explore branding a business and self, as well as bookkeeping.

And there will also be a presentation on taxation, both on and off reserve. This will include information on GST remittance and filing taxes.

Besides gearing up for next weeks summit, NATOA officials are preparing an online toolkit, which will be available next year.

It will be accessible to everybody and free of charge.

Were hoping to have it launched by March 30, Young-Crook said.

The platform is expected to be unique since it will include information on how Indigenous youth can succeed through topics covering financial literacy, entrepreneurship and mental health.

NATOA will be partnering with professionals from all three of these fields to provide information.

Young-Crook said there are other platforms out there now that specifically deal with these issues. But NATOAs toolkit will bring them all together into one spot.

Well be the one who combines all of that for them, Young-Crook said.

More information on the Developing Tools For Success summit is available at https://natoa.ca/

Windspeaker.com
Dreyfus affair: Harris worked with controversial director Roman Polanski for an adapation of one of his novels, but the film has yet to be released

When Robert Harris sets out to write a novel, he likes to build the foundations on historical facts. An idea comes into his head from a real incident and a real character, and he then develops a story around it, blending fact and fiction, and building layer upon layer.

This is what happened with the English author's latest thriller, V2, which tells the story of two principal characters involved in the German bombing of London by rockets launched from the coast of the Nazi-occupied Netherlands.

On one side is the German engineer Rudi Von Graf, who is involved in launching the utterly terrifying rockets that killed nearly 3,000 people in London in the final year of World War II.

On the other side is Kay Caton-Walsh, an officer in the Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF), sent to liberated Belgium to pinpoint where these missiles are coming from, so that the Royal Air Force can bomb the launch sites.

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Speaking on a Zoom line from his book-lined study in Berkshire, Harris says the idea for V2 came into his head when he read an obituary of Eileen Younghusband, a WAAF officer, who actually had been dispatched to Belgium to help find out where the V2 launch sites were.

"I thought that would be a wonderful story," he says. "You have an idea and it lurks in the back of your mind. Then I needed to find out who would be firing these rockets. When I am writing a novel, I read everything I possibly can about the subject."

The germ of the story came in 2016, the same year as the UK voted to leave the EU, and Harris believes that the mood of Brexit helped to shape the story. "It is staggering that within living memory, one European country was occupying another to fire ballistic missiles at the capital city of a third."

Harris is contemptuous of Brexiteers and their willingness to cut themselves off from Europe. "They are self-indulgent bomb-throwers, who have been indulged like schoolchildren, spoilt by decades of peace," he says.

Politics and writing have been Harris's twin passions ever since he was an eight-year-old boy growing up on a council estate in Nottingham.

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"My father was a printer and he used to work on Saturdays, and he would often take me with him. He would sit me next to a big Heidelberg press with an exotic pile of paper. The smell of ink and the smell of paper got into me. I used to doodle and draw maps of imaginary countries," he says.

"One of the first things I bought was a typewriter. I had a paper round and then I started producing my own newspaper.

"At school I wrote plays and I was given a lot of freedom to express myself."

Early on, Harris was drawn to journalism and after graduating from Cambridge he worked for the BBC, making documentaries for Panorama with his friend Jeremy Paxman.

Harris says he learned how to structure a story on Panorama. "You had to make 5 or 6 million people interested in a story, and hold their interest for 50 minutes," he says.

He moved into print journalism and wrote non-fiction books. Then, he had a sudden notion that would shape his entire career as a writer.

"I had this idea about writing a book about what the world would have been like if Hitler had won the war - at first I wanted to write it like a guidebook. Then I wanted to write about what happened to the people. I invented a character and a story. Suddenly I was through the looking glass into another world from which I have never returned, because I found it such a liberation."

The result was Harris's first novel, Fatherland, the ultimate what-if story involving Germany winning the war. It has sold 3 million copies and has been translated into 25 languages.

"I had hit on something that combined all my interests - storytelling, history, research and politics."

Since then, Harris has written 12 bestselling books, but he says he has relied on his experience as a journalist to get them written.

"I love working on deadlines and adrenalin," he says. "I believe writing works best when you don't know what you are going to say. You sit down in a panic - and something it comes and it's generally more original and interesting than if you had spent days thinking about it."

Harris says he started one of his novels, An Officer and a Spy, on January 15 in 2013, and it was in the shops by September of that year. He says it is perhaps the novel of which he feels most proud.

It was based on the notorious Dreyfus affair in France, where the Jewish artillery captain in the army, Alfred Dreyfus, was falsely convicted of passing military secrets to the Germans.

The novel has been turned into a film by the film director Roman Polanski. Harris co-wrote the script with Polanski, their third collaboration on a movie. The film has won awards, but has not yet been put on general release, because of the controversy surrounding the director.

Harris defends his involvement with Polanski, who fled the US in 1978, after pleading guilty to "unlawful sexual intercourse" with a 13-year-old girl. "In 2007, when I started working with him, everyone wanted to work with him," he says. "My involvement with the film ended six years ago and I never thought it would be made.

"It was a very different mood even six years ago - it was pre-MeToo and all of that.

"The book was only written because he had the idea and he wanted me to do something about the Dreyfus Affair."

Harris asked Polanski if he could write the novel first, and the director agreed to that before a screenplay was eventually written.

"I owe him some loyalty for that. Of course it puts me in an exquisitely difficult position, but in the end for me loyalty is a virtue," Harris says.

"I am sorry that in the English language world he is so unspeakable that the film cannot be released."

'V2' by Robert Harris, published by Hutchinson, is out now
Micheal Martin said the UK was under no illusions about the strength of opposition to its unilateral actions but he was hopeful the talks could get to a more intense phase over the next week or so.

He made the comments following a bilateral meeting with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels.

The Taoiseach travelled to Belgium to attend a special meeting of the European Council on Thursday.





It comes as the EU announced it will begin legal proceedings over Boris Johnsons Internal Market Bill, which overrides key elements of the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement relating to Northern Ireland.

Mr Martin said: We support the Commission in its actions.

It gave the United Kingdom a month to respond in relation to withdrawing the Internal Market Bill and the unilateral action it took in relation to the Northern Ireland protocol.

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I met with the president, she appraised me of the decision taken by the Commission.

We also discussed how we will deal with Brexit over the coming weeks.

The leader of Fianna Fail told RTE News there was concern across Europe at the unilateral action by the British government on the Northern Ireland protocol and that the UK Government needed to resile from that.

Parallel with that we are conscious of the need to conclude a comprehensive relationship agreement with the UK which is in the best interests of the people of Europe, the UK and Ireland, he said.

A sensible free trade agreement is something that we are seeking also.

While Mr Martin said he was hopeful that talks would become more intense he also cautioned that the issues were very substantive.

I think the mood is moving in the right direction towards better engagement, thats always important in terms of negotiations of this kind but there are serious challenges ahead.

He said it would remain to be seen how the UK would respond to the EUs actions.

The UK Government is very conscious of the strength of opposition to its unilateral action across Europe and indeed in Ireland, Mr Martin said.

It is under no illusions about that.

It understands that.

He added that Ireland was willing to play its part together with the EU in advancing the talks.

I have said repeatedly and consistently that it is in the interests of the people that we represent, their livelihoods, their jobs, that all political leaders work collectively to make sure we get the best outcome for workers, for businesses and the people generally, he said.

That is ultimately our objective as a country.

Mr Martin has previously said the Irish Government was preparing its latest budget on the basis of a no-deal Brexit.

He recently told the UK Liberal Democrats conference that he was not that optimistic of a future free trade agreement being reached between the UK and the EU.

While in Brussels Mr Martin will attend the Renew Europe working lunch with other EU leaders ahead of the Council summit.

Participants will discuss how to deepen and strengthen the Single Market as a key tool to drive Europes economic recovery.

It will also consider how to improve the competitiveness of European industry.
(Newser)  There were times when Army Gen. Stanley McChrystal was critical of Vice President Joe Biden while overseeing US operations in Afghanistan under the Obama administration. Indeed, he resigned in 2010 after Rolling Stone aired his mocking of Biden, whom he'd described as "shortsighted." But the retired four-star general holds no resentment, as evidenced by his endorsement of Biden on Thursday, per CNBC. "I think my willingness to endorse him now should signal to people that there was a respectful relationship then and just how important I think it is to replicate that kind of respectful relationship between senior military and leaders now," McChrystal told MSNBC. He said the country needs a commander in chief who is "humble enough to understand that they are a servant."

story continues below

"We just need an honest person who is willing to listen," McChrystal said. "We need someone who will take in information, surround themselves with talented people, and lead the country the best they can. ... You have to believe that your commander in chief at the end of the day is someone that you can trust. And I can trust Joe Biden." Now a senior fellow at Yale University's Jackson Institute for Global Affairs, McChrystal said he expected Biden to "set a tone in which he would bring out the best of people," per the Hill. The general joins nearly 500 retired top military and national security officials in backing Biden, per USA Today. (McChrystal previously described President Trump as immoral and a liar, which Trump clearly didn't like.)
The Senate Commerce Committee on Thursday unanimously voted to approve a plan to subpoena chief executives of Twitter, Alphabet's Google and Facebook for a hearing on a prized legal immunity enjoyed by internet companies.

The trio - Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook, Jack Dorsey of Twitter, and Sundar Pichai of Google - will be questioned about claims of anti-conservative bias, their efforts to tackle disinformation and online scams, and internet safety for children and teenagers.

The hearing is likely to discuss reforming Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which offers tech companies protection from liability over content posted by users.

Lawmakers from both parties have called for changes to the legal liability shield, claiming the provision enables toxic and harmful content to proliferate.

in the spotlight: Mark Zuckerberg is one of the three big tech CEOs hit by the subpoena

Also being questioned: Jack Dorsey of Twitter and Sundar Pichai of Twitter will be questioned

The committee, chaired by Republican Senator Roger Wicker, had originally asked the executives to come on Oct. 1 on a voluntary basis.

'After extending an invite to these executives, I regret that they have again declined to participate and answer questions about issues that are so visible and urgent to the American people,' Wicker said.

On Thursday, he said Section 230's 'sweeping liability protections' are stifling diversity of political discourse on the internet.

'We have questioned how they are protecting and securing the data of millions of Americans, we've explored how they're combating disinformation fraud and other online scams, we've examined whether they are providing a safe and secure internet experience for children and teens.'

Wicker added that the panel wants to know 'how they are removing content from their sites that encourages extremism and mass violence... their use of secret algorithms that may manipulate users and drive compulsive usage of the internet, among our youth.'

The panel's top Democrat Maria Cantwell, who opposed the move last week saying she was against using 'the committee's serious subpoena power for a partisan effort 40 days before an election,' changed her mind and voted to approve the move.

'I actually can't wait to ask Mr. Zuckerberg further questions,' Cantwell said. 'I welcome the debate about 230.'

Republican President Donald Trump has made holding tech companies accountable for allegedly stifling conservative voices a theme of his administration.

As a result, calls for a reform of Section 230 have been intensifying ahead of the elections, but there is little chance of approval by Congress this year.

The White House has been pushing committees in the Republican-controlled Congress to continue to probe tech companies in the run-up to the elections, Politico reported.

It follows national scrutiny and congressional hearings on the role big tech played in the 2016 elections.

Under a congressional push for answers after 2016, Facebook and other platforms revealed numerous ways users and Internet trolls from Russia and other locales spread misinformation and disinformation during the campaign.

It included posts that appeared designed to stir up racial resentment, target Hillary Clinton, and otherwise sow dissent in the country. U.S. Intelligence concluded that the Kremlin backed not only hacking operations in 2016 but also efforts to use social media to impact the election and fuel divisions.

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), a key ally of the president's who is also overseeing hearings into the Russia probe, introduced a bill Thursday meant to combat media bias.

Last week Trump met with nine Republican state attorneys general to discuss the fate of Section 230 after the Justice Department unveiled a legislative proposal aimed at reforming the law.

Zuckerberg and Pichai testified to the House of Representatives Judiciary Committee's antitrust panel earlier this year, alongside Apple's Tim Cook and Amazon's Jeff Bezos.

The panel, which is investigating how the companies' practices hurt rivals, is expected to release its report as early as next Monday.

Democrats meanwhile have expressed concerns over monopoly abuses and the failure of social media to stem misinformation from Trump himself.

The tech giants have announced plans to try to stem candidates' ability to declare victory on the platforms while votes are still being counted.

Conservatives have howled when Twitter and Facebook have slapped warning labels on Trump's tweets that violate internal policies.
As coronavirus outbreaks among workers closed several Canadian meat plants, Henry Mizrahi saw a different future for Lesters Foods, the hot dog factory he runs in Montreal.

Mizrahi made plans to install a robotic arm capable of moving packages into larger containers for shipping, allowing workers greater distance from each other. Lesters, a small private company, is investing several million dollars in a five-year plan to increase automation.

"The way we've designed plants has worked up to now  now we need to make dramatic changes," said Mizrahi, president of the 89-year-old company also known for its smoked meat.

The United States, Canada and Brazil, all major meat producers and exporters, have adopted technology at a slower pace than Northern Europe or Japan and lagged other industrial factories in automating their operations. The concentration of COVID-19 outbreaks in the meatpacking industry in the Americas partly reflected its greater reliance on elbow-to-elbow working conditions.

Accelerating the move to automation would increase food security and improve plant safety. But such plans come with costs that some find unaffordable during tough economic times, and workers fear they are being replaced, not protected.

Tyson Foods, Smithfield Foods and JBS SA, several of the world's largest packers, all have automation plans underway, their representatives said.

Meat plants account for just $1 billion in global annual sales of automation supplies and services, Georgia-based distributor Cantrell Gainco said, a sliver of the estimated $215 billion business of industrial automation, according to advisory firm ROBO Global. But North American packer interest is climbing.

Cantrell Gainco, which sells Japanese manufacturer Mayekawa's chicken deboning equipment, has fielded twice the usual number of inquiries since the pandemic spread to North America, said Russ Stroner, vice president of global sales.

Mayekawa said in a statement that global sales of its chicken deboning robot parts are set to rise from $32 million in 2019 to $45 million this year and $60 million in 2021, including North American sales this summer to Tyson, Sanderson Farms and Peco Foods.

'Sense of urgency'

In Brazil, the country's fourth-largest pork processor, Frimesa, intensified efforts to automate as the pandemic spread.

Plans called for spending 20 million reais, or about $3.53 million, annually on automation, but that program may now get a 5% annual bump, not including one-off pricey equipment purchases like robots, said Claudecir dos Santos, Frimesa's research and innovation manager. The goal is to automate areas where employees cluster together, he said.

Frimesa's Assis Chateaubriand plant under construction in the Brazilian state of Parana will include five robots, costing about $586,000 each. They will perform tasks including cutting open the pig's chest, eviscerating it and slicing the animal in half.

Olymel LP, one of Canada's biggest pork and poultry processors, had an automation plan before the pandemic forced it to temporarily close a Quebec plant for more than two weeks.

It decided then to accelerate the plan, and intends to use robots to sort meat cuts, pick and pack shipments and stack boxes, said Vice President of Engineering and Project Management Marco Dufresne.

Tyson, the highest-selling U.S. meat company, is making a bigger automation push because of the pandemic, said director of engineering Doug Foreman. "There's a heightened sense of urgency, no doubt about it," he said.

Tyson this summer tested a robot at its Arkansas automation center that uses machine vision to move chicken breasts from a conveyor belt into tray packs for sale in grocery stores.

With retail demand surging, Pilgrim's Pride, which is mostly owned by Brazil's JBS, said in July it will use automation to double capacity of a Minnesota plant to produce chicken sold in tray packs. The plant suffered a COVID-19 outbreak in April.

"The outbreaks of corona will put extra spice into the need for automation because the fewer people you have, the less likely you are to suffer from these outbreaks," said Henrik Andersen, chief commercial officer at Denmark-based Frontmatec, producer of automation equipment for the food industry.

Demand from U.S. plants has been particularly strong, Andersen said.

Greater automation raises suspicions, however, among labor groups.

"It's taking away people's jobs," said BJ Motley, president of the United Food and Commercial Workers union branch that represents Smithfield workers in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where more than 1,000 workers contracted the coronavirus.

Smithfield automated the work of splitting hogs at the plant a few years ago, eliminating eight positions, he said.

A Smithfield representative declined to respond to Motley's comments.

JBS USA uses the threat of replacing workers with automation as a negotiating tactic, said Kim Cordova, president of the UFCW local union that represents JBS beef plant employees in Greeley, Colorado.

"We're threatened with automation all of the time, like, 'If you speak up, we'll just use automation,'" Cordova said.

A JBS spokesman said the allegation was "completely untrue."

While the virus outbreak has highlighted the advantages of automation, its economic fallout has conversely limited the scope for major technology investments.

Packers have placed orders with Cantrell Gainco for equipment worth up to $400,000, but pricier projects have been placed on hold in light of uncertainty over how the pandemic will affect cash flow and consumer demand, Cantrell Gainco's Stroner said.

In Canada, Mizrahi of Lesters Foods is certain automation is worth the expense.

"When we started to see it hit (other plants), I saw how tragic the impact was on human health.

"The pandemic has certainly accelerated our strategy of planning for more robotic equipment."

Additional reporting by Tom Polansek in Chicago, Nigel Hunt in London, Dominique Patton in Beijing and Yuka Obayashi in Tokyo.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. Representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry Maria Zakharova says that the media reports about massively enlisting and sending militants from northern Syria to NK conflict zone raise concerns, ARMENPRESS reports Ria Novosti informs.

The circulating information about massively enlisting militants from the north of Syria for sending to the conflict zone of Nagorno Karabakh raise concerns. There are photos and footages showing that in the social media, she said.

In the recent days there have been numerous media reports that Turkey has deployed a large number of militants from Syria in Azerbaijan, who starting from September 27 have been fighting against the Armenian forces.

Azerbaijan, actively and overtly supported by Turkey, unleashed an aggression against Artsakh on September 27. The Defense Army of Artsakh repels the attacks of the adversary successfully, inflicting heavy losses, So far Azerbaijan has lost 90 UAVs, 12 helicopters, 181 armored vehicles, 4 aircrafts, 2 Smerch and 1 Uragan multiple rocket launch systems, 3 TOS-1A heavy flamethrower systems and 1200 manpower.

Armenia has reported 103 casualties among the military, there are also civilian victims, including children.

On September 29 Turkish F-16 downed Armenian SU-25 jet in the Armenian air space, killing the pilot.

Editing and translating by Tigran Sirekanyan
First-term Democratic Rep. Tom Malinowski says he has received death threats after a right-wing conspiracy group highlighted accusations that he lobbied to protect sex offenders.

Malinowski, D-7th Dist., told NJ Advance Media Thursday that he was talking to U.S. Capitol Police as to what steps, if any, he needed to take in response to the threats. He is the chief sponsor of a bipartisan resolution before the House this week condemning the group, QAnon, and its conspiracy theories.

He is running against state Senate Minority Leader Tom Kean Jr., R-Union, in one of New Jerseys most competitive congressional races. The political arms of both House Democrats and House Republicans list the Central Jersey district among their top priorities.

QAnon claims without any basis in fact that President Donald Trump is fighting a global child-sex trafficking organization that includes Hillary Clinton and many other prominent Democrats.

Malinowski said the phone threats came after an internet site used by QAnon included a copy of his resolution and a press release from the National Republican Congressional Committee claiming that the lawmaker lobbied to protect sexual predators.

The Republican congressional committee has amplified the charges in an ad, claiming that Malinowski, while director of Human Rights Watchs Washington office, lobbied against legislation creating a national registry of sex offenders. The Washington Posts fact checkers gave the ad their highest rating for untruthfulness.

People call in and scream and say, Youre going to get a bullet in the back of the head,' Malinowski said in an interview. Theyre clearly reacting to the combination of the resolution Im leading and the NRCC attack. The resolution alone is not why Im getting death threats.

When I introduced the resolution, I got vitriol online but nothing like were getting now. This is a reaction to the NRCC putting out this throughly discredited attack that plays to the paranoia of QAnon supporters.

NRCC spokesman Chris Pack said all the blame lies with Malinowski.

The only person who bears responsibility here is Tom Malinowski for his decision to lobby against the creation of a national sex offender registry," Pack said. "It is a matter of public record archived on the U.S. Senate website that Malinowski lobbied against this bill. It is disgusting. And now Congressman Malinowski must live with the consequences of his actions.

Its 3 PM and heres the lobbying form from the US Senate website showing @Malinowski lobbied against the creation of a sex offender registry. #NJ07 https://t.co/gSeHME3sGy pic.twitter.com/X5QNDrWF6a  NRCC (@NRCC) October 1, 2020

The chairwoman of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, Rep. Cheri Bustos of Illinois, called on her Republican counterpart to take the ad down and apologize to Malinowski.

The NRCCs indifference to death threats made against a sitting member of Congress is unconscionable, Bustos said.

What Human Rights Watch did was list the names of both of its lobbyists at the time, Malinowski and Jennifer Daskal, and every bill the group was concerned about, all together on one form, rather than specifically identify which bill each individual lobbyist was working on. Other groups have done the same.

At the time, Malinowski lobbied on international issues and Daskal on domestic ones, and her name was on communications regarding the sex offender bill. Human Rights Watch expressed concerns about the measure because it felt the legislation was overly broad, not because it opposed creating a sex registry. Daskal signed a letter to lawmakers, which was printed in the Congressional Record.

The ad, though, said Malinowski tried to make it easier for sex offenders to hide in the shadows and led an effort to block the registry.

Several current and former local New Jersey Republican officials called on the NRCC to remove the ad, as did a group of faith leaders from the state.

The Kean campaign forwarded the ad to its supporters, and Malinowski said his opponent deserves some blame for the situation.

When that ad came out, when the attack came out and Tom Kean amplified it, I warned him that he was playing to a very dangerous and dark current in our politics, Malinowski said. Many people urged him to disavow this nonsense. He and the NRCC instead doubled down on this. And these are the consequences.

Kean spokesman Harrison Neely said the candidate has denounced QAnon and will continue to do so, as well as all violent or verbal threats against any individual.

No one should be receiving death threats, but Congressman Malinowski is wrong to attempt to lay the blame at the feet of Senator Kean, Neely said.

The facts are that Congressman Malinowski boasts about Human Rights Watch having won a Nobel Prize before he worked there, but he is refusing to take accountability for the organizations efforts while he was the Washington director. Human Rights Watch broadly opposed a national sex offender registry and Malinowski signed the lobbying disclosure that said he worked on the issue.

This is not the first time that Malinowskis record at Human Rights Watch has been an issue. Two years ago, the Congressional Leadership Fund, a super political action committee with ties to House GOP leaders, claimed that Malinowski lobbied for terrorists' rights.

He actually worked with the late U.S. Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., to ban torture of U.S. detainees.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.

Jonathan D. Salant may be reached at jsalant@njadvancemedia.com.
A political row erupted on Thursday over cases of sexual assault in Rajasthan in the last 10 days, following the Hathras incident in Uttar Pradesh. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) attacked the Congress-led state government over incidents of gang-rape in Baran, Sikar, Ajmer and Jaipur, while the Congress, in defence, said it had taken quick action in all cases.

In Baran, two girls, 15 and 13, went missing on September 18 and their father filed a missing persons report at Mahila police station on September 19. The girls were found in Kota two days later with two minor boys, both aged 17. On Wednesday, the girls father told media outlets that his daughters were kidnapped and gang-raped in Jaipur, Kota and Ajmer, after being intoxicated.

Baran SP Dr Ravi said the girls, in their statement before a magistrate, said they went with the boys for an outing. The medical examination of the girls was also conducted in which no evidence of sexual assault was found, he added. The family alleged police inaction in the case. The Baran Police denied the allegation.

Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot said the Opposition was misleading people by drawing an analogy between the Baran and the Hathras cases. Hathras gang rape incident is extremely condemnable the incident of Baran is being compared with the Hathras incident which is very unfortunate. The girls in Baran in their statement under CrPC 164 provision have refused being raped and have stated of going on outing with the boys, he wrote on Twitter.

In Sikar, a minor alleged on September 29 that two men had entered her house in January and sexually assaulted her, and also filmed the act. The girl said the accused drugged her father and that her mother had gone out. Two of the three accused had been arrested in the Sikar case, the police said.

BJP spokesperson and party law-maker Ramlal Sharma said, The government has failed to curb such incidents. We demand that the state government immediately investigate these cases and present the challan in the court, and set up a special court to punish them, said Sharma.

Congress spokesperson Archana Sharma said the Congress government takes such incidents seriously.
It is "inevitable" that Mercedes' dominance will end eventually, according to Red Bull team boss Christian Horner.

However, with team figures now dismissing their chances of beating Mercedes this year, Horner also does not expect Red Bull to catch up by 2021.

"Our great opportunity is 2022," he said.

"For the coming year, it will be difficult when about 60 percent of the car is carried over. But that doesn't mean that we cannot unlock more potential through development and understanding the car better."

With Ferrari lagging behind, Red Bull is clearly the second best team in 2020, ahead of McLaren in the team standings.

However, McLaren boss Andreas Seidl warns: "Racing Point has the third fastest car and Renault is making great progress. We have to improve."

Horner agrees that Sebastian Vettel is making a good move by switching to Racing Point, which will be called Aston Martin in 2021.

"They really have a very competitive car," he said. "They have laid the basis for next year.

"The goals are high, the budget seems to be there. Sebastian should also be a factor as he attacks with a fresh environment."

As for Red Bull, the big question mark for 2022 is the Honda engine. At Sochi, the Japanese marque's technical boss refused to say whether Honda will commit to the sport behind its 2021 contract.

"I'm not actually involved in that discussion at all," said Toyoharu Tanabe. "I take care of the technical side so I have no answer to tell you."

Horner is clearly keen that the partnership continues.

"We have to continue to work closely together," he said.

"I am convinced that we can do it. The history of Formula 1 shows that Mercedes' long-term superiority has to come to an end at some point. That's just inevitable."

(GMM)
(Newser)  He allegedly killed and dismembered nine victims, mostly young women, and in court on Wednesday, Takahiro Shiraishi put all doubts about the accusations to rest. "All correct," the 29-year-old defendant known as the "Twitter Killer" said, confirming the murder counts against him during his guilty plea in a Tokyo courtroom, per the BBC and NDTV. Shiraishi could face the death penalty for his crimes. Prosecutors say Shiraishi started targeting his victimsfemales ages 15 to 26, and one male, 20on the social media platform in 2017 by looking for those thinking about killing themselves. He'd offer to help them in their quest and sometimes say he'd go the suicide route as well. His Twitter profile read: "I want to help people who are really in pain. Please DM [direct message] me anytime."

story continues below

Shiraishi was busted after cops who were looking into the disappearance of one of his victims paid a visit to his apartment in October 2017 and found body parts, covered in cat litter, in coolers. He was also accused of sexually assaulting his female victims, per the Japan Times. Shiraishi's defense team says the charges should be downgraded to "murder by consent," which would carry a prison sentence of no more than seven years, as his victims had allegedly agreed to being killed. The BBC notes, though, that Shiraishi is said to disagree with his attorneys on this. "There were bruises on the back of the victims' heads," he told the Mainichi Shimbun. "It means there was no consent and I did it so that they wouldn't resist." Shiraishi is set to be sentenced on Dec. 15, per the Guardian. (Read more Japan stories.)
A day after a CBI special court in Lucknowacquitted all the accused, including BJP veteran LK Advani, in the Babri Masjid demolition case, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday said the 1992 incident was an unparalleled crime that has deeply wounded the country like the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi.

Urging that it was "time to fight against religious hegemony" in order to protect the country's democracy and secularism, Vijayan said the CBI and the central government have the responsibility to take necessary legal action to punish the perpetrators of the crime.

All the 32 accused in the Babri mosque demolition case, including BJP veterans Advani and MM Joshi, were on Wednesday acquitted by a special CBI court, which said there was no conclusive proof against them.

"The demolition of the Babri Masjid is not just a destruction of a mosque - it is an unparalleled crime that has deeply wounded the country like the assassination of Gandhi," Vijayan said.

The case relates to the razing of the disputed structure in Ayodhya on December 6, 1992, which triggered riots for several months leaving nearly 2,000 people dead across the country.

"We have before us the perpetrators of the Rath yatra that preceded the demolition of the mosque, those who led the yatra, their aides, those who called for Karseva, the organisations that provided people and means to it. We also have people who asked who the court was, to stop them at that point. It is unfortunate that such criminals are not punished. They deserve the punishment for their attempts to destroy secularism in our country," Vijayan said.

He lashed out at the Sangh Parivar and said: "it was responsible for this heinous act which has inflicted the greatest blow on India's secularism."

The Left leader also hit out at the Congress and said the national party, along with its allies were also responsible for the events that led to the destruction of the Mosque, facilitating it and for creating favourable conditions.

"It was the Congress party which opened the doors of Babri Masjid for the Sangh Parivar. It was the Congress that gave permission for the laying of the foundation stone of the temple. As a natural consequence of all this, when the Sangh Parivar demolished the Babri Masjid, it was the Congress that allowed it and remained silent through inaction," Vijayan said.

He also pointed out that even the Supreme Courtin the final verdict on the land dispute of Ayodhya case on November 9 last year, had said the installation of Lord Ram's idol at the disputed site on December 22 1949, was part of a conspiracy.

"The apex court had said the demolition of Babri Masjid was an abuse of rule of law.In today's context, the time has come to fight religious hegemony.

It is indispensable to protect our democracy and secularism," Vijayan added.
NEW YORK, N.Y. -- Students returning for in-person learning but taught remotely by a teacher on a device will not be the norm for the rest of the school year, Mayor Bill de Blasio and Schools Chancellor Richard Carranza said Thursday as middle and high schools students returned for in-person learning.

De Blasio and Carranza said the in-person remote set up in classrooms would be temporary until they could hire additional teachers for in-person learning.

But they could not say exactly how many schools across the city had adopted this model or how many more teachers they had hired now that all grade levels have returned for in-person learning.

These are the exceptions, not the rule, and again, schools have differing circumstances, so I actually applaud the principals in their ingenuity and creativity in making sure students are going to have instruction and that its content specific instruction thats high quality, Carranza told reporters during a press conference Thursday when asked whether the in-person remote model would be the norm for the rest of the school year.

As we continue to build our teacher pool, youre going to see even in those situations where that will be mitigated, but this is not what we want, this is not going to be the standard, and again, this is the first day and it will look very differently as we go forward, Carranza continued.

On Staten Island, Tottenville High School and Wagner High School told parents over the weekend that all students would receive instruction virtually in the classroom and not live instruction from a teacher.

Students participating in the blended learning model will go to school two to three days a week and learn remotely on the other days. Parents also have the choice of students learning remotely full-time.

Though neither the mayor nor Carranza would say how many schools were adopting this model, de Blasio said it was " not the majority by any stretch of the imagination."

De Blasio also insisted the city would keep staffing up to help every school have the ability to do the maximum in-person learning directly with educators.

However, the mayor has avoided saying for nearly a week, how many additional teachers the city has hired for the return of in-person learning as the majority of grade levels returned to the classroom this week.

HOW MANY MORE TEACHERS NEEDED?

Last month, de Blasio said the city had 4,500 teachers ready for in-person learning.

But the United Federation of Teachers President Michael Mulgrew later told the Daily News that between 6,000 and 7,000 extra teachers would be needed when middle and high schools open Thursday.

Were going to tote that up and get you that number when everything is complete, de Blasio said Thursday when asked how many additional teachers had been hired now that middle and high schoolers returned to the classrooms. It takes weeks typically in the beginning of a normal school year, without a pandemic, to sort out all the staffing, to get everyone finally in place, theres some movement around between schools, some extra people come in, this is all very normal.

Now that we have started across the board  we are now going to be making those adjustments over the next few weeks, de Blasio continued. Well get to a final lockdown roster for every school and then well be able to tell you what we had to add from the summer to make this happen. But the bottom line is, weve been able to get the staffing we need and get it where it is needed.

De Blasio and Carranza said the benefit of having students return to the classrooms for remote learning is that it allows them to receive support and other services at school that they would otherwise not be able to get at home.

The first day of public school in New York City was Monday, Sept. 21 -- but not all students returned to campus. Students in 3-K, pre-K and District 75 students reported in-person Sept. 21; students in K-8 and K-5 schools began Tuesday; and middle and high school students returned on Thursday.

FOLLOW SYDNEY KASHIWAGI ON TWITTER.
Any New Yorker who is able to do so ought to vote early and in person.

The news this week that the citys Board of Elections sent defective absentee ballots to nearly 100,000 voters makes this need clear.

The board has caused problems for years, from long lines at the polls to illegal voter purges. This week, tens of thousands of voters, mostly in Brooklyn, opened their absentee ballots to find someone elses name printed on the envelope they are meant to mail back, making the ballots unusable.

Board of Elections officials said that a vendor, Phoenix Graphics, was to blame. Phoenix Graphics said Wednesday that it would send new ballots to New Yorkers at no cost. The board needs to hold the company to that promise, without delay. It would be helpful for Gov. Andrew Cuomo and other state officials to support the effort as well.

In addition, New Yorkers should remember that they can now vote early, thanks to state election reforms signed into law last year. Early voting starts on Oct. 24 for the November election. (New Yorkers can find their polling location at the B.O.E. website.) That change, which was long overdue, will help mitigate crowds and allow in-person voting to happen more safely during the coronavirus pandemic  though the practice is thought to be relatively low risk at any rate.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 19:42:45|Editor: huaxia

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VALLETTA, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- The Maltese police are investigating a cyberattack that has grounded all IT systems at Transport Malta, the agency said in a statement on Thursday.

Transport Malta, a government body responsible for the country's air, land and sea transport, said it had suspended all its service due to technical problems caused by the attack on its information systems.

The agency said the technical difficulties were the result of a cyberattack that appeared to have taken place on the night between Sept. 25-26, when the difficulties were first experienced.

It said that upon the first indication of a cyberattack, its technical experts had called in the police for an investigation.

Transport Malta did not say whether any information on their systems had been compromised or any data stolen. Enditem
In whats being called a shocking misuse of personal health information, Ontario police services made unauthorized searches of the provinces COVID-19 first-responder data portal  including querying entire postal codes to find active cases of the virus, according to documents obtained by two civil rights groups.

In a memo addressed to all police chiefs in June, Ontarios Ministry of the Solicitor General said an audit of the COVID-19 database  a controversial and now-shuttered portal for first responders  revealed many searches violating the provinces directive that the tool be used cautiously and with precision.

The audit raised concerns that the portal is being used beyond the express purpose that the government intends, wrote Richard Stubbings, assistant deputy minister of the public safety division, in a June 11 letter.

Among the unauthorized searches listed: broad-based municipal searches with no specific address, including queries of postal codes or of another municipality, and searches of a specific name unrelated to an active call for service.

I strongly urge police services boards and chiefs of police to ensure that access to this critical information is strictly for responding to a call for service, Stubbings wrote.

The memo  obtained through a freedom of information request by the Canadian Constitution Foundation, a civil rights charity  is the latest problem stemming from a portal dubbed an extraordinary privacy invasion by human rights groups and deemed an unnecessary infringement by Ontarios privacy commissioner.

I was shocked when I read the extent of what appears to be abuse of that database, Christine Van Geyn, litigation director with the CCF, said Wednesday.

At the same time, when you look at what access was granted under that regulation ... its not surprising that such a database was abused.

The temporary portal was created via an emergency order in April, letting first responders including police officers access personal information such as names, addresses and birthdates of people who tested positive for COVID-19. The database was intended to be used solely by 911 operators and only for active calls, to aid efforts to limit the spread of the virus.

The province halted police access to the database in July, after a legal challenge filed by human rights groups including the Canadian Civil Liberties Association argued the portal was an unjustified invasion of privacy.

After obtaining the June memo this week, the CCF filed a formal complaint about the searches to the Office of the Independent Police Review Director  the provinces complaints watchdog  and to the provinces information and privacy commissioner.

There is no rationale for this abuse, said Van Geyn.

But misuse of the portal may have been caused in part by attempts by police to use a tool the CCLA said was overall pretty useless to first responders. Some services adopted illegal and privacy-invasive work arounds when authorized searches failed, the rights group said.

In a report released Wednesday, the CCLA highlighted significant problems with a database, including incorrectly entered addresses and outdated and unreliable information. Database weaknesses were also noted by the province itself in communication to police services earlier this year, including delays in test results and the fact that individuals listed as positive may no longer have COVID-19.

Abby Deshman, the criminal justice program director of the CCLA, said it remains unclear why the database was deemed useful to begin with.

We were right to be concerned about the utility of the database. Not only was the information extremely limited, it was designed in such a way that made it unusable, she said in an interview Wednesday.

They created a tool that I think never should have been created.

Brent Ross, spokesperson for the Ministry of the Solicitor General, said in a statement Wednesday that protecting personal health information was a key commitment.

Recognizing that the local needs and challenges of individual communities across Ontario is varied, police and fire services were expected to implement local policies to ensure appropriate use and to take appropriate action in the case of misuse, Ross said.

Police and fire services are responsible for their use of the portal within the requirements of the emergency order.

Data released as part of the CCLAs lawsuit revealed Ontario police services searched the portal 95,000 times. While some services, including Toronto police, never accessed the portal, a handful of others made up the bulk of the queries.

Durham Regional Police and Thunder Bay Regional Police alone conducted 40 per cent of the searches, with nearly 25,000 and 14,000 searches respectively, according to the CCLA.

In a Sept. 1 report to its police services board, Durham police called the database extremely unreliable, saying that, in good faith, its staff adopted broad, wild-card style searches to glean results when more precise queries failed.

The Durham report states, for example, that when address queries for a long term care home with known COVID-19 cases failed, the search was expanded using wildcard parameters. That practice was widely used until the provinces June 11 memo.

In late June, Durham was warned about its overly broad searches, and its access was ultimately shut off by the province five days before the entire portal was closed.

York Regional Police initially made use of the portal, performing more than 13,000 searches, but later asked the province to revoke its access, according to the CCLA.

YRP identified that the look-up tool was not sufficiently user-friendly and did not permit authorized users to conduct searches that would consistently provide accurate results while still allowing YRP to maintain stringent limits on how members conducted their searches, reads a Sept. 23 report to the York police board.

Van Geyn, lawyer for the CCF, called on the privacy commissioner to conduct an investigation into any instances of searches of specific names unrelated to active calls. The legislation that let police access the COVID-19 database required that individuals be informed of any breaches of their privacy, she said.

Weve asked for an investigation, and if there is misconduct, for the administrative penalty under the act to be applied, she said.

Wendy Gillis is a Toronto-based reporter covering crime and policing for the Star. Reach her by email at wgillis@thestar.ca or follow her on Twitter: @wendygillis
Manatees don't live year-round in Texas, but these gentle, slow-moving sea cows are known to occasionally visit, swimming in for a "summer vacation" from Florida and Mexico and returning to warmer waters for the winter.

Research led by The University of Texas at Austin has found fossil evidence for manatees along the Texas coast dating back to the most recent ice age. The discovery raises questions about whether manatees have been making the visit for thousands of years, or if an ancient population of ice age manatees once called Texas home somewhere between 11,000 and 240,000 years ago.

The findings were published in Palaeontologia Electronica.

"This was an unexpected thing for me because I don't think about manatees being on the Texas coast today," said lead author Christopher Bell, a professor at the UT Jackson School of Geosciences. "But they're here. They're just not well known."

The paper co-authors are Sam Houston State University Natural History Collections curator William Godwin, SHSU alumna Kelsey Jenkins (now a graduate student at Yale University), and SHSU Professor Patrick Lewis.

The eight fossils described in the paper include manatee jawbones and rib fragments from the Pleistocene, the geological epoch of the last ice age. Most of the bones were collected from McFaddin Beach near Port Arthur and Caplen Beach near Galveston during the past 50 years by amateur fossil collectors who donated their finds to the SHSU collections.

"We have them from one decade to another, so we know it's not from some old manatee that washed up, and we have them from different places," Godwin said. "All these lines of evidence support that manatee bones were coming up in a constant way."

The Jackson Museum of Earth History at UT holds two of the specimens.

A lower jawbone fossil, which was donated to the SHSU collections by amateur collector Joe Liggio, jumpstarted the research.

"I decided my collection would be better served in a museum," Liggio said. "The manatee jaw was one of many unidentified bones in my collection."

Manatee jawbones have a distinct S-shaped curve that immediately caught Godwin's eye. But Godwin said he was met with skepticism when he sought other manatee fossils for comparison. He recalls reaching out to a fossil seller who told him point-blank "there are no Pleistocene manatees in Texas."

But examination of the fossils by Bell and Lewis proved otherwise. The bones belonged to the same species of manatee that visits the Texas coast today, Trichechus manatus. An upper jawbone donated by U.S. Rep. Brian Babin was found to belong to an extinct form of the manatee, Trichechus manatus bakerorum.

The age of the manatee fossils is based on their association with better-known ice age fossils and paleo-indian artifacts that have been found on the same beaches.

It's assumed that the cooler ice age climate would have made Texas waters even less hospitable to manatees than they are today. But the fact that manatees were in Texas -- whether as visitors or residents -- raises questions about the ancient environment and ancient manatees, Bell said. Either the coastal climate was warmer than is generally thought, or ice age manatees were more resilient to cooler temperatures than manatees of today.

The Texas coast stretched much farther into the Gulf of Mexico and hosted wider river outlets during the ice age than it does now, said Jackson School Professor David Mohrig, who was not part of the research team.

"Subsurface imaging of the now flooded modern continental shelf reveals both a greater number of coastal embayments and the presence of significantly wider channels during ice age times," said Mohrig, an expert on how sedimentary landscapes evolve.

If there was a population of ice age manatees in Texas, it's plausible that they would have rode out winters in these warmer river outlets, like how they do today in Florida and Mexico.

###
US Presidential candidate Joe Biden may just have pulled the ultimate party trick to troll the current US President Donald Trump while taking a sly dig at him regarding his alleged tax evasion.

On Tuesday, Biden cast doubt over the eventuality of Trump ever showing his tax returns to the world, despite the latters repeated promises through the debate that he would. Youll get to see it (tax returns), Trump repeatedly said, to which Biden replied, When? Inshallah".

The use of the phrase led to much hilarity on social media with many netizens, especially American Muslims and Arabs reacting to the now-viral video with mirth. Did Biden just drop an Inshallah?", one user wrote, while another said, The Arabs have finally arrived".

Also Read: Joe Biden Saying Inshallah to Troll Donald Trump During Presidential Debate is Peak 2020

But understandably enough, not everyone understood Bidens sneaky usage of the word. In fact, while Inshallah" trended widely across Twitter, many Americans turned to Google to know the actual meaning of the phrase.

What is Inshallah?" What is Inshallah definition?" What does Inshallah mean?"

Interestingly, the top google search in America ended up being Inshallah sarcastic", meaning if the phrase was used as a sarcastic jibe by Biden.

Biden dropping Inshallah" at the debate became the moment on Twitter.

Best moment of #Debate2020 /yelling fest, is Joe Biden dropping Arabic word Inshallah (God willing).When Trump said youll get to see his taxes, Biden: when? inshallah(meaning never) pic.twitter.com/6J18Rgn4pL  Joyce Karam (@Joyce_Karam) September 30, 2020

Biden dropped an Inshallah" at the debate. pic.twitter.com/DLrGWR3eGb Waleed Shahid (@_waleedshahid) September 30, 2020

Joe Biden hit Trump with the inshallah 2020 is different pic.twitter.com/7waefn6Vw8 ChampagneJuJu (@jhabashy15) September 30, 2020

Did Biden say Inshallah?We made it lmaooooo  Hamed Aleaziz (@Haleaziz) September 30, 2020

Not only did Biden say Inshallah", he used it in the colloquial context meaning not really" https://t.co/1h1Tba4QtZ Shahed Amanullah (@shahed) September 30, 2020

Did Biden just hit him with a inshallah . Lmaoo Thats all I needed to hear!! Biden certified Bas (@Bas) September 30, 2020

Earlier, an explosive report from The New York Times stated that Trump paid just $750 in income taxes in 2016, the year he ran for president, and in 2017, his first year in the White House. During Tuesdays Presidential debate, Biden focused on the tax controversy as his primary attack on the POTUS.
A Belarusian pro-democracy campaigner and an imprisoned Iranian human rights lawyer have been awarded the Right Livelihood Award, a prize sometimes called the "alternative Nobel," along with activists from the United States and Nicaragua.



The Stockholm-based Right Livelihood Foundation on October 1 cited human rights activist Ales Byalyatski and his Vyasna (Spring) nongovernmental organization "for their resolute struggle for the realization of democracy and human rights in Belarus."



Nasrin Sotoudeh, who has defended Iranian activists, opposition politicians, and women prosecuted for removing their head scarves in public, was given the award "for her fearless activism, at great personal risk, to promote political freedoms and human rights in Iran."



Byalyatski, 58, was convicted of tax evasion in 2011 and sentenced to 4  years in prison following a trial criticized by Western governments and human rights groups as politically motivated. He was released ahead of schedule in 2014.



Vyasna, which Byalyatski founded in 1996 to assist political prisoners, has provided legal assistance to thousands of Belarusian detained or imprisoned for challenging Alyaksandr Lukashenkas rule following a presidential election in August that the West and the opposition say was rigged.



Byalyatski called the award "a sign of moral support for all Belarusians who are striving for democratic change."

The activist was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2012 and received a number of international awards while imprisoned.



The 57-year-old Sotoudeh was arrested in 2018 and later sentenced to a total of 38  years in prison and 148 lashes over her defense of political prisoners, including women protesting the compulsory hijab law.



Earlier this month, she was transferred from a prison cell to a hospital north of Tehran following a hunger strike for better prison conditions and the release of political prisoners.



Days later, she was taken back to Tehrans Evin prison and ended her hunger strike due to deteriorating health, according to her husband.

The 2020 Right Livelihood Award was also given to U.S. civil rights lawyer Bryan Stevenson "for his inspiring endeavor to reform the U.S. criminal justice system and advance racial reconciliation in the face of historic trauma."



Rights and environmental activist Lottie Cunningham Wren of Nicaragua was also named "for her ceaseless dedication to the protection of indigenous lands and communities from exploitation and plunder."



The award winners will each receive prize money of 1 million kronor ($110,100) and will be honored during a virtual award ceremony on December 3.



The annual Right Livelihood Award, which was created in 1980, honors efforts that the prize founder, Swedish-German philanthropist Jakob von Uexkull, felt were being ignored by the Nobel Prizes.

With reporting by dpa, AP, and AFP
They didnt see everything the way I did, he added. But in every instance, they listened. In every instance, they took in my view. In every instance, I felt that they were trying to make the best decision based on all the information they had, and based on a bedrock of values.

The Biden campaign immediately embraced General McChrystals statement.

Vice President Biden is honored by General McChrystals endorsement, said Andrew Bates, the campaigns spokesman. And he couldnt agree more that the next commander in chief must respect people who serve and have served and be someone that you can trust  which would be a decisive break from Donald Trump, the most dishonest president in American history and the only one to have utterly disgraced himself by calling veterans and the fallen losers and suckers.

Mr. Trump has disputed a report in The Atlantic that he privately used those words in referring to American soldiers killed in combat.

To say that Mr. Biden and General McChrystal had policy differences is like saying that oil and water occasionally did not mix.

In 2009, General McChrystal and the Pentagon leadership, then backed by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, fiercely battled Mr. Biden over whether to ramp up the Afghanistan war effort and send tens of thousands more American troops to engage in a counterinsurgency strategy meant to rout the Taliban and create conditions they said were necessary for the Afghan government to stabilize the country.
Kohima:

Violence erupted in the Nagaland capital on Thursday with those opposed to the ongoing elections to urban local bodies (ULB) vandalising the State Election Commission and Deputy Commissioners office and setting on fire the Kohima Municipal Council building.

The Regional Transport office and that of the Excise Department were also set ablaze by violent mobs demanding the resignation of Chief Minister T R Zeliang and his entire cabinet for going ahead with the ULB polls despite opposition from powerful tribal groups that are against 33 per cent reservation for women in the municipal bodies, eyewitness said.

All of these incidents, however, could not be immediately confirmed by the police.

Earlier in the day, the Nagaland Tribes Action Committee (NTAC), representing different tribal organisations, had served an ultimatum to Zeliang and his cabinet to resign by 4 pm, remove Dimapur Commissioner of Police and also declare the election process, already under way, null and void.

The NTAC had also submitted a memorandum to the Raj Bhavan in the absence of Governor P B Acharya, who was in Itanagar, in support of its demands. Acharya holds dual charge of the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh.

Anger was brewing in the state since the killing of two protesting youths in police firing at Dimapur on Tuesday. It grew further after the bodies were brought and kept in the heart of Kohima town last evening.

Under pressure from NTAC, Zeliang, declared the election process null and void and also transferred the Commissioner of Police and Deputy Commissioner of Police of Dimapur to facilitate an impartial inquiry into the firing incident.

Though the Chief Ministers decisions were announced before an angry crowd of protesters after the 4 pm deadline had expired, they turned violent.

The Zeliang government has been facing stiff opposition from tribal bodies over introducing 33 per cent reservation for women in the urban local bodies.

ULB elections have been due in the state for over 16 years. In 2012, these bodies had pushed the state assembly to pass a resolution not to hold the ULB polls even though an amendment to the Municipality Act 2001 was passed in 2006 providing for quotas to them.

However, Zeliang government decided to hold the polls after the cabinet gave the go ahead for it following an interim Supreme Court order in a case filed by the Naga Mothers Association (NMA) for a directive to the state government to implement 33 per cent reservation for women in the ULBs, like in many other states.

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After drawing flak over seeking justice for actors while neglecting the Hathras gang rape victim, Union Minister Ramdas Athawale has announced that he would be meeting the womans family on Friday.

Athawale was criticised for taking actor Payal Ghosh who accused filmmaker Anurag Kashyap of sexual harassment to Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshiyari on Tuesday while not saying single a word on the Hathras rape victim who died in a Delhi hospital on Tuesday.

On Wednesday, the minister announced that he will meet the family of the victim on Friday and also announced protests by his party, Republican Party of India (RPI) at Azad Maidan.

I will meet the family of the victim on Friday, said Athawale. I will also meet Governor Ananddiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday and demand a fast track court to nail the victims, he added.

The Shiv Sena has criticised Athawale saying that he was more concerned for justice for the actors instead of common people. Athawale sought justice for an actor, but not for the poor girl from Hathras whose family was not even allowed to cremate her, said Sena MP Sanjay Raut.

In recent times, Athawalehas been supporting actor Kangana Ranaut who launched a tirade against the Shiv Sena and said the RPI will offer security to her. In addition, he also met Koshiyari protesting the demolition of Ranauts office and demanded compensation for her.

This evoked criticism of Athawale from both rivals as well as social media users who questioned the priorities of the Union minister of state for social justice and empowerment and pointed out that he seemed more interested in celebrities than Dalits.

Political observers rue that the Dalit leadership has bowed before the major political parties. Athawale knows that celebs would attract more publicity for him than taking up the Dalits cause and hence favours them, said political analyst Hemant Desai.

The woman in Hathras was allegedly attacked and raped on September 14 in a field near her home. Details of the barbaric assault emerged last week, and the woman was shifted to Delhis Safdarjung Hospital where she battled for life till Tuesday.

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UP: Elections not won on exit polls basis, results will be surprising: Kamal Nath

UP: 17-year-old rape victim tries to commit suicide by consuming poison in Baghpat

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Baghpat, Oct 01: A teenage girl tried to commit suicide after she was allegedly raped and blackmailed by a neighbour, who has been arrested by police in Uttar Pradesh's Baghpat. An FIR against the accused, Naseem, was registered by the police on a complaint from the 17-year-old girl's father on Tuesday night.

The rape survivor consumed poison on September 27 and fell unconscious. Once she regained her consciousness, she narrated her ordeal to her father and named Naseem, a neighbour, as the culprit, following which the police complaint was lodged.

NCP chief draws Centre's attention from Sushant case, says farmers are also dying by suicide

According to the complainant, his daughter was not only raped, but also harassed and blackmailed by the accused, due to which she attempted to commit suicide.

Hathras sealed ahead of Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi's visit|Oneindia News

Superintendent of Police (SP) Abhishek Singh said the accused has been arrested and a probe is on in the matter.

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Story first published: Thursday, October 1, 2020, 16:28 [IST]
John Windham spent 30 years in prison for aiding in a murder in Sacramento as a teenager. Disconnected from society, by his own description, in his life before imprisonment, he became obsessed with politics and public affairs while behind bars, gathering all the news he could about polls and elections.

Voting became my Super Bowl, Windham, 50, said from his home in Waterford (Stanislaus County). Since his release on parole in the past year, he has founded a nonprofit to help former inmates rejoin society and worked as a community organizer.

But one thing neither Windham nor his 50,000 fellow parolees can do is vote in the November election. That will change if voters approve Proposition 17, which would add California to 19 states and the District of Columbia that allow former prisoners to vote while on parole.

I feel as though my voice doesnt matter, my opinion doesnt matter, Windham said in an interview. You take my money (in taxes) every month, but yet I cant say what you do with my money and whos in office.

Opponents of Prop. 17 argue that parolees are still serving their sentences and should be treated the same as inmates, who are barred from voting. Only two states, Maine and Vermont, allow prison inmates to vote.

Parole is a period of state supervision after a prison sentence for a felony. Parolees must report periodically to their parole officer, can be searched at any time, are barred from possessing guns, and can be returned to prison for violating parole conditions. Supervision typically lasts three years, but can be five or 10 years for more serious crimes. Those like Windham who were convicted of murder and approved for release by the state parole board are on parole for life.

As in much of the criminal justice system, the impact of the voting ban is racially disproportionate. As of December 2016, according to state records, African Americans made up 6% of the states adult population but 26% of its parolees; Latinos accounted for 35% of the population and 40% of the parolees, and whites were 41% of the population and 26% of the parolees. Other races and ethnicities made up the remainder.

Courtesy John Windham

California allows people to vote while on supervised probation for misdemeanors and some felony convictions, but voting by parolees has been barred since 1849, a year before statehood, by the California Constitution, which can be amended only by the voters. A 1974 ballot measure granted voting rights to former prisoners who had completed their parole period. Prop. 17 was placed on the ballot by two-thirds majorities in each house of the Legislature, voting largely along party lines, and needs a majority public vote to pass.

Backers of the measure include the advocacy group Californians for Safety and Justice along with the American Civil Liberties Union and the League of Women Voters. They argue that extending the right to vote would benefit society as well as parolees.

People on parole who have completed their prison sentences raise families, hold jobs, pay taxes, and contribute to society in every other way, supporters said in the states ballot pamphlet. Restoring a persons voting eligibility removes stigma and helps strengthen their connection to the community.

They cited a 2011 report by Floridas Parole Commission saying inmates whose rights are restored after release are less likely to commit new crimes. Floridas permanent ban on voting by convicted felons, even after their release, was repealed by the states voters in 2018, but legislative Republicans quickly passed a new law requiring ex-convicts to pay all legal fines and fees before being allowed to vote. A federal appeals court upheld the law on Sept. 11.

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.

Opponents of Prop. 17, including the advocacy group Crime Victims United of California, argue that parolees do not deserve to vote.

Parole is the adjustment period when violent felons prove they are no longer a violent threat to innocent citizens, they said in the ballot pamphlet. Prop. 17, they said, will allow criminals convicted of murder, rape, child molestation, and other serious and violent crimes to vote before completing their sentence, including parole.

Although the pamphlet includes No-on-17 arguments, there is no opposition committee or campaign organization. As of Sept. 10, California Secretary of State Alex Padilla reported $378,793 contributed to Yes on 17, and zero to the opposition. The Crime Victims group did not respond to requests for comment.

Still, any supporters of the measure who anticipate a one-sided vote on Nov. 3 might examine the states history for a note of caution. The U.S. Constitutions 15th Amendment, which prohibits racial discrimination in voting, became law nationwide in 1870 after ratification by the needed 28 states. California lawmakers did not approve it until 1962.

Bob Egelko is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @BobEgelko
Nearly three-quarters of pastors concerned presidential election will impact churches: Barna

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Nearly three of four pastors are concerned that the presidential election and its fallout will negatively impact their congregations, according to a newly reported study by the Barna Group.

Barna recently released the findings of week 18 of their Church Pulse leader survey, which drew from a poll of 475 Protestant pastors taken Sept. 24-28.

Since each week has a different total of respondents, the margin of error varies week to week, being between 4.77% to 7.65% depending on the sample taken.

When asked by Barna about how concerned they were that the election will impact their church, 33% of respondents said they were very concerned, while 41% said somewhat concerned.

While 74% of respondents expressed a level of concern that the election will impact their congregation, 26% responded that they were not concerned.

Despite the concern about an impact, the surveyed pastors indicated confidence on handling the divisiveness of the political campaign season at their respective churches.

When asked if the election will divide their congregation, 65% disagreed with the idea; 25% said they somewhat agree that it will and 10% said they strongly agree that it will.

Furthermore, when asked if they are prepared to lead their churches through the election season, 87% said they either strongly agree or somewhat agree that they were prepared.

The weekly Church Pulse survey began back in March, centered on tracking trends among Protestant churches in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Week 18 marked the first time that the weekly survey asked questions about the presidential election and how the church is responding to the subsequent upheavals.

In November of last year, the Revive Civility project of the University of Arizonas National Institute for Civil Discourse launched a prayer campaign titled Golden Rule 2020.

Theo Brown, director of NICDs Faith Based Programs, told The Christian Post in an interview last year that he believed faith communities have a huge role to play in reviving civility.

All Christian denominations teach that each individual person  regardless of their political views  is someone created in the image of God. Therefore, each person is worthy of being treated with dignity and respect, said Brown at the time.

The goal of Golden Rule 2020 is to remind Christians that our faith has something to say about how we talk to each other and that these insights are relevant to our political discussions  particularly in difficult times like these.

In August, Doug Clay, the leader of the Assemblies of God, sent out a pastoral letter to the approximately 13,000 congregations to combat political divisiveness.

Polarization in 2020 has risen to a higher level and has trickled down to even mundane decisions, wrote Clay. Its the Spirit who brings unity.

We should be extremely cautious that we do not allow division to seep into Christs Church that will inevitably lead to self-destruction.
It has been a common denominator in this country for some time that when politics enters the equation so too does the bandying about of fascism when describing ones opponents.

Its ridiculous for reasons previously expounded upon at great length in this real estate, so I wont retrace my steps  at least not this week  in response to the bombastic tirade readers of this fish wrap unfortunately were exposed to this past Sunday.

And so on to the sublime. Whereas last week I celebrated the birthdays of some of my favorite musical performers, I shall this week offer an appreciation of a true cinematic masterpiece, A Hidden Life, directed by Terrence Malick in 2019, and currently streaming on HBO.

The film takes its title from George Eliots novel Middlemarch, in which she wrote: The growing good of the world is partly dependent on unhistoric acts; and that things are not so ill with you and me as they might have been, is half owing to the number who lived faithfully a hidden life, and rest in unvisited tombs.

Malick applies this epigraph to the real-life martyr Franz Jagerstatter and his wife, Fani, Austrian farmers whose lives with their three young daughters are disrupted irrevocably when World War II erupts. Franz is called up to serve, but is allowed to return home after France surrenders to Germany. When he is called up again, he refuses to pledge an oath to Hitler and will not fight. For these treasons he is jailed and  not much of a spoiler considering the Catholic Church beatified Jagerstatter a martyr, which can only mean one thing in such a context  is executed.

Some weeks ago, I coined the phrase dystopian histories, and A Hidden Life allows me to mint the phrase further. One moment, Franz, Fani and their immediate family are toiling on their farm, worshiping at their church, and enjoying their spiritual and pastoral existence; and the next moment history unleashes one of its most nightmarish scenarios.

Franz and Fani witnessed fascism firsthand in the real world of their farming village rather than the fever dream of a retired professor fervently banging his spoon against his metaphorical high chair. In other words, if your inclination is to toss around the word fascism like adolescent schoolboys flick popcorn from a movie-house balcony, you havent a clue what youre talking about.

And you dont have to be Catholic to consider A Hidden Life a masterpiece. In fact, the clergy consulted by Franz all recommend he submit to the Nazi yoke in order to best serve his country, family and community. Unlike the U.S. World War II soldier in Mel Gibsons Hacksaw Ridge who serves his country as a medic rather than as a soldier, however, Franz refuses to participate in any fashion with the obligations of his own conscription.

Among the brilliant choices Malick makes in his film is to excise long, didactic speeches. The viewer is left to discern through the films editing, cinematography, music and impeccable facial expressions what is happening inside characters heads. Much of the narrative is furthered in an epistolary fashion, with Franz and Fani reading their letters to each other in voiceovers

Speaking of acting, the cast is brilliant. August Diehl and Valerie Pachner as the Jagarstatters are both remarkable, with Diehl somewhat reminiscent of a young Max Von Sydow and, at times, Klaus Kinski.

The original music is composed by James Newton Howard, and is among one of the most beautiful scores in recent memory. Adding gravity to the soundtrack are pieces by Arvo Part, Henryk Gorecki, Antonin Dvorak, Bach, Beethoven and Handel.

In closing, disingenuously inflating todays political arguments with charges of fascism is little more than humbuggery. We have the dystopian histories to prove it.

Bruce Edward Walker (walker.editorial@gmail.com) is a Morning Sun columnist.
Amid a national outcry over the lack of diversity in institutions across the United States, new federal data show that rank-and-file officers in hundreds of police departments are considerably more white than the communities they serve.

Of 467 local police departments with at least 100 officers that reported data for both 2007 and 2016, more than two-thirds became whiter relative to their communities between those years, according to a New York Times analysis.

Some departments  including many of the largest, like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston and Dallas  narrowed the gap between the share of white police officers and white residents when comparing 2016 with 2007. But most police forces did not keep pace with the changing demographics of their cities.

The widening racial gap means that at a time when the nations population is growing more diverse, residents more often meet officers who dont look like them.

There were efforts among many police forces, especially in urban areas, to recruit and hire more officers of colour from 2007 to 2016 - the most recent year for which federal data is available. And there have been decades-long gains in the number of officers who are not white.

Indeed, from 1997 to 2016, estimates of the proportion of officers of colour across the country rose by 6 percentage points, to almost 28 per cent, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, with the biggest police forces growing more diverse.

But few cities reached the point where the demographics of their police departments better reflected their communities. Nationwide, the share of white officers exceeds the share of the white population and the gap has grown larger over time. Black and Hispanic groups remain underrepresented in the police force.

While many police departments became more diverse, black officers often continued to be less represented. Diversity gains were instead fuelled by growing numbers of Hispanic and Asian American officers, a decline in the number of white officers, or a combination of both.

Many of the largest police departments struggled to retain black officers, with the share of black officers who left policing jobs in 2016 outpacing the share of new hires who were black, the Times analysis of the federal data shows.

Policing experts have attributed at least some of that gap to national outrage and fallout over the deaths of black men at the hands of the police in recent years. Those deaths, many of which happened in police custody and were filmed by witnesses, have made retaining and recruiting black officers more difficult, they said.

It has been really daunting in the post-Ferguson era to maintain and increase the diversity of departments, said Chuck Wexler, executive director of the Police Executive Research Forum, a nonprofit in Washington, DC, referring to the half-dozen years since Michael Brown was shot and killed by a white police officer in Ferguson, Missouri.

Before Ryan Tillman joined the Chino, California, force in 2014, he had had unpleasant encounters with police, including a decade ago when an off-duty officer waved him down in an upscale neighbourhood of a neighbouring city. The officer told Mr Tillman, who is black, that he didnt belong there, and that he would call in on-duty officers if he didnt leave.

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Still, Mr Tillman wanted to become a police officer and he is now a corporal who supervises patrol officers. He said that while there are white officers who dont understand the experience of African Americans, there are also black people who wont be able to understand because theyve never walked in the shoes of officers.

That inability to understand each others perspective affects recruitment, especially in the current environment. There are a lot of minorities who just dont like police, Mr Tillman said. And if you do have one who wants to be a police officer, theyre afraid to come out and tell people that they want to do that.

As America becomes more diverse and the rank and file of police departments doesnt fully reflect the communities they serve, policing is no longer a profession that people view as something they want to get into, said Rashawn Ray, a policing expert at the Brookings Institution and a professor at the University of Maryland.

When you have a police department thats not diverse or you have a police department that doesnt live in local communities  and by local communities I mean often black, Latino or low-income communities  what happens is that black and Latino youth, low-income youth, they never see police officers unless theyre doing something to them or to people who they love and care about, Mr Ray said. Why would you want to go into a profession where every time you see somebody, theyre harassing somebody or arresting someone?

Researchers have found that greater diversity in police departments and local government boosts trust in those institutions in nonwhite neighborhoods. Some have also found that white officers are more likely than Black officers to use guns or other force in neighborhoods where the majority of residents are not white. Yet experts also caution that having more people of color as law enforcement officers does not always mean more equitable policing.

For example, according to the data, Chicagos 12,000-member police department grew more diverse in 2016 compared with 2007, relative to the city it serves. But the shift in demographics did not necessarily translate to improved relationships with black and Hispanic communities and other communities of colour. In January 2017, the Department of Justice released a scathing report concluding that the use of excessive force among Chicago police officers was rampant, and aimed primarily at black and Hispanic residents.

In contrast, the police department in Camden County, New Jersey, is vastly whiter than the community it patrols. In 2016, slightly more than half its force of 364 officers was white, even though it patrols an area that is only 6 per cent white.

Yet Camden, whose chief is also white, has gained a reputation as one of the most progressive departments in the country, following a decision seven years ago to disband and rebuild the citys police department. The new force patrols inside the city of Camden, where homicides and excessive-force complaints against officers have fallen significantly in recent years.

Mr Ray, of the Brookings Institution, said his research shows that rank-and-file officers, regardless of race, were similarly likely to use force against black people. But he said there was evidence that excessive-force complaints decline when police departments have chiefs who are not white, or when a lot of nonwhite officers are in high-ranking positions.

There is some other research that shows that the race of the police chief, or upper management, does matter in terms of decreasing police killings, Mr Ray said. I interpret that to mean that if you have a more diverse upper management in a police force, there are more accountability metrics in place that can lead to officers being held accountable.

The demographics of those ranks differ significantly by community size. In cities with more than a quarter-million people, almost one-fifth of the police chiefs were black. However, the vast majority of local police departments serve communities with fewer than 100,000 people. In those places, just 4 per cent of police chiefs were black, the Bureau of Justice Statistics estimated.

New York Times
What we hope to accomplish is to send a very clear message on Election Day to the president: There aint no light at [the end of] the tunnel for you in the House of Representatives, Pelosi said Thursday at her weekly news conference. That isnt going to work. So dont cause chaos because you think it will lead to a light at the end of the tunnel, because that light at the end of the tunnel in the House is going to be a train coming right at your plans.
Mr George Amoh, Acting Executive Secretary, National Peace Council, has called on journalists to report conflicts in a manner that would promote peace at all times.



The Journalist covering a conflict must present accurate and impartial facts but must avoid poisonous facts which could exacerbate the conflict.



Mr Amoh, who was the Lead trainer at a training session for journalists of the Ghana News Agency, on conflict sensitive reporting, urged journalists to be always guided by the basic principles of journalism which included truth, accuracy, loyalty the public, independence and accountability.



He said the media was often the most important channel of communication between parties in conflicts and journalists must present a realistic yet tactical construction of news as parties were informed about the challenges of each other towards reconciliation.



He said "the journalist, who does that, can help educate each side to avoid demands for simplistic immediate solutions."



Mr Amoh said journalists must also try to get closer to the truth as much as possible, serve the public interest, avoid being influenced by external forces, be ready to report what was factual and report conflicts in a manner that protected the rights of all parties concerned.



He stated that journalists must also avoid fear mongering such as the use of words like devastations, tragedy, horrors to describe what must have happened to one of the parties in the conflict.



A conflict sensitive journalist applies conflict analysis and research that bring out perspectives about ongoing conflicts that reduce violence. He or she reports on who is helping to resolve an ongoing conflict, and choose his words carefully



"Use the opportunity you have to build confidence, since the lack of trust is a major factor contributing to conflicts. You have the opportunity to help build bridges and to build consensus, he said.



He urged journalists to read more, expose themselves, be broad and open minded, ready to learn things that were new and to unlearn some of the things you have learnt earlier in life, so that together we keep the peace in the country.



We have to jealously guard the peace that the country is enjoying, let us continue the path of setting the standards in all aspects of our reporting even more importantly, our conflict reporting mechanism, that way, we will be fulfilling not only our professional and social responsibilities, but also our global responsibilities, he said.



Mrs Beatrice Savage, Director of Editorial, Ghana News Agency, said the training session formed part of Ghana News Agencys preparations towards the coverage of the December general elections and thanked the Peace Councils Executive Secretary for the valuation lessons on conflict reporting.

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.

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Google said on Thursday that it would spend more than $1 billion to license content from international news organizations, after years of criticism that it was not providing fair compensation for articles and other content linked to by its internet search products.

The program is part of a new Google product called News Showcase that will present news from around the world in short snippets that readers can quickly browse on a phone or other device. The company will pay publishers to curate the material that will be presented.

The program was starting on Thursday in Germany and Brazil, and would be rolled out to additional countries in the months ahead, Sundar Pichai, Googles chief executive, wrote in a blog post. Partnerships have been signed with nearly 200 publications, including in Argentina, Australia, Britain and Canada, Google said. The papers include Der Spiegel and Handelsblatt in Germany and Folha de S.Paulo in Brazil.

Google has faced years of criticism around the world for not doing enough to support news organizations whose content it links to. In the Europe Union, new copyright rules give publishers stronger rights to negotiate with aggregators like Google. In Australia, Google and Facebook are facing new regulations that could require them to pay local publishers for news they carry.
DC Norris Unveils the CT-1, a 50 Gallon Stainless Steel Cook Tank for Foodservice As schools return to in-person instruction in many areas, restaurants scramble to meet new service modifications with a shrinking labor pool and a volatile supply chain, and our healthcare facilities have an ever-increasing need for safety--sous vide provides a remarkable solution.

Sous vide, a popular French cooking technique that allows foods to be slow-cooked in vacuum-sealed plastic pouches submerged in a precisely controlled water bath, is now one of North Americas hottest cooking trends. Sous vide cooking was initially adopted by chefs in high-end restaurants for its unique ability to repeatedly produce superior finished product quality. While adopted on both the industrial scale for food manufacturers and on the small, even in-home, scale; there was no machinery well-suited to foodservice. Until now.

DC Norris North America is now shipping Model CT-1, a 50 Gallon gross capacity, fully automated, stainless steel sous vide cook tank with HMI control panel to restaurants and small scale food manufacturers throughout the United States and Canada.

Dick Smith, DC Norris North Americas President, remarked The timing of this launch is unprecedented. There has been an unmet need in the industry for commercial sous vide cook tanks of this capacity for quite some time and now we find ourselves in the midst of a global pandemic. As schools return to in-person instruction in many areas, restaurants scramble to meet new service modifications with a shrinking labor pool and a volatile supply chain, and our healthcare facilities have an ever-increasing need for safety--sous vide provides a remarkable solution. This sous vide cook tank can be used in restaurants, cafeterias and commissaries alike.

The fully automated CT-1 gives foodservice unprecedented control over finished product quality by eliminating the possibility of human error which cuts operational expenses and waste. Additionally, this commercial-scale sous vide cooking equipment by DC Norris allows restaurants, schools and hospitals to serve more nutritious foods as the cooking technique reduces the need for preservatives and additives. Perhaps most important, the sous vide method provides a biological barrier in its packaging, preventing many opportunities for contamination during cooking, cooling and distribution/serving.

DC Norris North America is currently accepting new orders for the CT-1 cook tank. More features of the CT-1 sous vide cook tank can be seen on the companys website: dcnorrisna.com and orders can be placed via the site or over the phone (231) 935 -1519.

About DC Norris North America

Located in Traverse City, Michigan, DC Norris North America designs, manufactures and installs turnkey food processing systems that lead the globe in innovation, efficiency, and safety. DC Norris North America helps the nations most purchased food brands innovate to the taste and demands of todays consumer. From stand-alone vessels to fully automated processing lines and everything in between, DC Norris North America brings 50 years of global food processing experience to its clients and has manufactured and installed the processing systems in some of the largest food production facilities around the world.

###

For more information, quotes or editorial requests, please contact Carly Wujcik at (248) 719-9744 or

carlyw@dcnorrisna.com.
Two French journalists were injured by shelling in the Armenian town of Martuni, local media has reported.

The two French nationals working for France's Le Monde newspaper had been wounded during Azeri shelling.

An Armenian government source said they were in grave condition.

Television footage released by the Ankara-based Anadolu Agency showed reporters running for cover behind a wall at an unidentified location in Nagorno-Karabakh after what it said was Armenian shelling. Loud blasts could be heard in the background.

World leaders, including Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin and Emmanuel Macron have called for an immediate ceasefire in Karabakh as Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan demanded 'full Armenian withdrawal'.

Earlier today the presidents of America, Russia and France in a joint statement called for a return to negotiations without delay over the conflict between Azerbaijan and ethnic Armenian forces, which has raged around the Caucasus region of Nagorno-Karabakh for the past five days.

'We call for an immediate cessation of hostilities between the relevant military forces,' the three presidents said in their capacity as co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group.

A car carrying journalists, pictured, was allegedly shelled by Azeri forces in the town of Martuni, in the self-proclaimed Nagomo-Karabakh Republic earlier today

Blood was spattered across the Nissan Micra afther today's attack, pictured

The two French journalists were injured in the attack, according to local media

'We also call on the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan to commit without delay to resuming substantive negotiations, in good faith and without preconditions, under the auspices of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs.'

The group was set up in 1992 to mediate a peaceful resolution over the Nagorno-Karabakh enclave in the South Caucasus.

But Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has since said that it was unacceptable that the countries were involved in a search for a ceasefire in the disputed region given they neglected problems there for some 30 years.

Erdogan also repeated that Armenia must withdraw from Nagorno-Karabakh if there is to be lasting peace in the region where Azerbaijan and ethnic Armenian forces have clashed for five days.

Azerbaijan's Defense Ministry released footage purporting to show Azerbaijan's forces attacking an Armenian army's tank during fighting in the Nagorno-Karabakh region

The conflict between Azerbaijan and ethnic Armenian forces has raged around the Caucasus region of Nagorno-Karabakh for the past five days. Pictured: Azerbaijan's forces allegedly destroyed Armenian army's multiple rocket launcher during fighting

It comes after Russia accused Turkey of sending Syrian and Libyan fighters from illegal armed groups into the Nagorno-Karabakh region.

Russia called on the countries involved to prevent the use of 'foreign terrorists and mercenaries' in the conflict.

Two Syrian rebel sources have said that Turkey is sending Syrian rebel fighters to support Azerbaijan, which Turkey and Azerbaijan have denied.

Yesterday, Armenia revealed photos of the wreckage of its SU-25 fighter jet which it claims was shot down by a Turkish F-16 amid accusations that Ankara is throwing its military might behind Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijan also announced it had 'neutralised' 2,300 Armenian soldiers in the worst eruption of violence between the two countries since a 1994 ceasefire over an Azerbaijani territory which is largely inhabited by Armenians.

Donald Trump (left), Vladimir Putin (centre) and Emmanuel Macron have all called for an immediate ceasefire in Karabakh as Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan (right) demanded 'full Armenian withdrawal'

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan repeated that Armenia must withdraw from Nagorno-Karabakh. Pictured: Image purporting to show a rocket shell in the Ivanyan community in the breakaway Nagorny-Karabakh region

Despite Azerbaijan and Turkey denying that an F-16 had downed Armenia's SU-25, the defence ministry in Yerevan named its dead pilot as Major Valeri Danelin and published photos of the jet painted in the Armenian Air Force colours, smouldering on a mountainside.

Turkey has been stridently backing Muslim Azerbaijan, raising fears that Russia - which has a military base in Christian Armenia - could be drawn into a proxy war after Moscow and Anakara came close to trading blows in Syria last year.

French President Emmanuel Macron yesterday slammed Turkey's fighting talk as 'reckless and dangerous' after Ankara pledged its full support for Azerbaijan to reclaim the ethnically-Armenian Nagorno-Karabakh territory.

The Kremlin, which also wields influence over the former Soviet republic of Azerbaijan, has called on the hostilities to be 'immediately ended' and warned Turkey not to 'add fuel to the flames.'

Azerbaijan said yesterday it has killed or wounded at least 2,300 Armenian troops so far in the battle which started on Sunday.

The defence ministry, which has been tweeting numerous videos of its strikes, said it had destroyed 130 tanks and armoured vehicles, 200 artillery and missile systems and 50 anti-tank guns.

Macron on Wednesday pledged his support to Yerevan, telling reporters: 'I say to Armenia and to the Armenians, France will play its role.

But the French President also said it was too soon to speak of a regional conflict.

He said he would discuss the tensions with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday evening and US President Donald Trump on Thursday before reporting on the situation to the European Council of EU leaders.

Armenia revealed photos of the wreckage of its SU-25 fighter jet which it claims was shot down by a Turkish F-16 over the the Caucasus Mountains

The colours of the Armenian flag painted in a roundel on the plane's fuselage (left) and identification markings (right)

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Wednesday that Moscow was willing to host the foreign ministers of Armenia and Azerbaijan for talks, a ministry statement cited him as saying.

He said Russia would continue to work both independently and together with other representatives of the Minsk group of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) to mediate in the conflict.

Ethnic-Armenian separatists in Nagorno-Karabakh are fighting for secession from Turkish-backed Azerbaijan and the dispute has led to decades of unresolved violence.

Erdogan's aide Fahrettin Altun has said that Turkey 'stands with Azerbaijan, our friend and brethren' despite UN condemnation for the violence.

'Let there be no doubt that the world will hear our roar if Azerbaijan were to suffer from the slightest injustice under international law,' he said on Tuesday.

Azerbaijan also aired footage of two Armenian tanks being blown up on the battlefield, while Armenia claimed to have taken out 80 armoured vehicles, 49 drones and four helicopters in the latest fighting which has killed dozens of people, allegedly including civilians.

However, Altun dismissed the F-16 claim as 'absolutely untrue' while Azerbaijan described it as 'yet another lie of Armenian propaganda'. 'Armenia should withdraw from the territories under its occupation instead of resorting to cheap propaganda tricks,' Altun said.

Turkey denies that one of its F-16 fighter jets was involved in a dog fight, but Armenia has named Major Valeri Danelin as their dead pilot (the wreckage pictured on the mountainside)

Russian-backed Armenia warned that it would deploy more destructive weapons in the conflict because of what it described as an Azerbaijani offensive, saying the fighting had been 'elevated to a new level'.

Armenia last night accused Turkey of 'supporting Azerbaijan to carry out genocidal acts', a reference to the early 20th-century massacre which it calls the Armenian Genocide and which still poisons relations between Turkey and Armenia.

Both nations have accused each other of firing into each other's territory beyond the Karabakh region, raising fears of an all-out war which could draw in nuclear-armed Russia.

The Kremlin has a military base in Armenia but has called for the hostilities to be 'immediately ended' - warning Turkey not to 'add fuel to the flames' by raising the prospect of intervention.

US secretary of state Mike Pompeo said Tuesday that 'both sides need to stop the violence' while German chancellor Angela Merkel called for an 'immediate ceasefire' and France called for a revival of peace talks.

Martial law has been declared in both countries and Armenia has banned men over 18 in its military reserves from leaving the country as the warfare continues despite global appeals for calm.

Crossroads between the Middle East and Russia: The fighting is in the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh of Azerbaijan which is controlled by separatists allied to Armenia. Turkey borders Armenia but is an ally of Azerbaijan, and Ankara's support for Baku is the latest military adventure in the region after incursions into Syria and Libya. Both Armenia and Azerbaijan are former Soviet republics that border Iran. Moscow has called for both sides to stop the fighting

Why Armenia and Azerbaijan are fighting WHAT AND WHERE IS NAGORNO-KARABAKH? Karabakh is a region within Azerbaijan which has been under the control of ethnic Armenian forces since a full-scale separatist war ended in 1994, after killing about 30,000 people and displacing an estimated one million. Nagorno-Karabakh is about 1,700 square miles in size, but Armenian forces also occupy other nearby territory. HOW DID THE CONFLICT START? Long-simmering tensions between Christian Armenians and mostly Muslim Azerbaijanis began boiling over as the Soviet Union frayed in its final years. Once the USSR collapsed in 1991 and the republics became independent nations, war broke out. A 1994 cease-fire left Armenian and Azerbaijani forces facing each other across a demilitarised zone, where clashes were frequently reported. WHAT'S HAPPENED SINCE? International mediation efforts have brought little visible progress. The conflict has been an economic blow to the Caucasus region because it has hampered trade and prompted Turkey to close its border with Armenia. Fighting periodically breaks out around Nagorno-Karabakh's borders, often deadly, notably in 2016 and this July. Since new fighting erupted on Sunday, dozens have been killed and wounded in apparent shelling by both sides. Each country blamed the other. WHATS THE BROADER IMPACT? In addition to causing local casualties and damage, the conflict in the small, hard-to-reach region is also of concern to major regional players. Russia is Armenias main economic partner and has a military base there, while Turkey has offered support to Azerbaijanis, fellow Muslims and ethnic brethren to Turks. Iran neighbors both Armenia and Azerbaijan and is calling for calm. Meanwhile, the United States, France and Russia are meant to be guarantors of the long-stalled peace process, under the auspices of the Vienna-based Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe. Advertisement

Azerbaijan's defence ministry said yesterday that the opposing forces attempted to recover lost ground by launching counter-attacks in the directions of Fizuli, Jabrayil, Agdere and Terter.

The ministry said there was fighting around Fizuli on Tueday morning and the Armenian army shelled the Dashkesan region on the border between the two countries, miles away from Nagorno-Karabakh.

Armenia denied those claims, but reported fighting throughout the night and said that Nagorno-Karabakh's army repelled attacks in several directions along the line of contact.

Both sides blame each other for causing the latest flare-up, with Armenia claiming that the separatists in Nagorny-Karabakh are resisting a 'thoroughly planned attack'.

'Defence forces of Nagorno-Karabakh are left with little option but to defend themselves,' Armenia's foreign ministry claimed.

Military leaders in the Armenian enclave say that 84 servicemen on their side have been killed so far, while both sides blame the other for alleged civilian deaths.

Azerbaijan says 10 civilians have died on its side, but has yet to give details on military casualties.

Armenia claimed on Tuesday that a nine-year-old girl was killed in shelling, while her mother and a brother were wounded, while Azerbaijan says five members of a family died in the gunfire.

Armenia's defence ministry said a civilian bus was set on fire after being hit by an Azerbaijani unmanned drone.

Armenia accuses its enemy of using Smerch and TOS-1A rocket launchers, saying it was forced to use 'military hardware with larger power' in response.

'Since early morning the Azerbaijani side resumed large-scale offensive ops. TOS-1A heavy flamethrowers are being employed. The use of TOS, Smerch and other large-caliber systems changes the philosophy and the scale of mil ops, elevating them to a new level of escalation,' claimed defence spokeswoman Shushan Stepanyan.

As a result, Armenian forces are 'compelled to use pieces of equipment and munitions designed to engage wide area targets, intended for large and indiscriminate destruction of manpower, and static and mobile property alike,' she warned.

Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan came down firmly on the side of Azerbaijan, which shares ethnic, cultural and linguistic ties with the larger power.

'The time has come for the crisis in the region that started with the occupation of Nagorno-Karabakh to be put to an end,' Erdogan said. 'Now Azerbaijan must take matters into its own hands.'

Azerbaijani president Ilham Aliyev on Monday ordered partial military mobilisation and General Mais Barkhudarov vowed to 'fight to the last drop of blood in order to completely destroy the enemy and win'.

Armenia has accused Turkey of sending mercenaries to back Azerbaijan, a claim which Erdogan's government denies.

Turkey informed the fighters they would be tasked with 'guarding border regions' in Azerbaijan in return for wages of up to $2,000, said Rami Abdul Rahman, the head of the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

Anna Naghdalyan, a spokeswoman for Armenia's foreign ministry, said people in Nagorno-Karabakh were 'fighting against a Turkish-Azerbaijani alliance'.

'Turkey, which a century ago annihilated Armenian people in their historical homeland and justifies that crime, now supports Azerbaijan by all possible means to carry out same genocidal acts in South Caucasus,' she said.

As many as 1.5million Armenians were rounded up and killed by their Turkish rulers in mass killings which started during World War I, but Turkey fiercely disputes the term 'genocide'.

Turkey has also conducted drills with F-16 jets in Azerbaijan, but Baku denied claims that it has any of the fighter planes or that one been involved in a shootdown.

Russia has previously supplied Armenia with weapons in the sensitive region, where pipelines shipping Caspian oil and natural gas from Azerbaijan to the world pass close to Nagorno-Karabakh.

How the military forces compare AZERBAIJAN 82,000 armed forces personnel 570 tanks including T-55, T-90 and modified T-72 upgraded by Israel 29 combat aircraft (five MiG-21, 12 MiG-29 and 12 Su-25 planes) ARMENIA 49,000 armed forces personnel 110 tanks including T-80, T-72, T-55 and BMP models 13 combat aircraft (nine Su-25 and four Su-30 planes) TURKEY 510,000 armed forces personnel 3,000 tanks including 339 German-made Leopard 2A4s and 1,200 American M60 tanks 206 combat aircraft (48 F4 jets and 158 F-16 jets) RUSSIA 1.45million armed forces personnel 12,950 tanks including Soviet-era T-72 and T-80, Russian-era T-14 Armata and T-90 models 1,616 combat aircraft including MiG, Sukhoi and Tupolev models 7,000 nuclear warheads with land, air and sea-based launchers Advertisement

Russian President Vladimir Putin yesterday urged the opposing sides in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict to hold their fire, during a conversation with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, the Kremlin said in a statement.

Putin emphasised the urgent need for a ceasefire and for all sides to take measures to de-escalate the crisis, the Kremlin said.

Azerbaijani state energy company SOCAR said yesterday that the country's oil and gas infrastructure was safe thanks to measures taken by the army.

The report of Turkish intervention comes after the European Union warned regional powers not to interfere in the fighting and condemned a 'serious escalation' that threatens regional stability.

Omer Celika , spokesman for Erdogan's ruling party, denied reports that Turkey had sent arms or foreign fighters to Azerbaijan.

'Armenia is disturbed by Turkey's solidarity with Azerbaijan and is producing lies against Turkey,' Celik said.

Erdogan criticized France, the US and Russia - the three chairs of the so-called Minsk group that was set up in 1992 to resolve the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict - saying they had failed to resolve the issue for 30 years.

'They have done their best not to solve this issue. And now they come and counsel and issue threats. They say, is Turkey here, is the Turkish military here?,' Erdogan said.

France said yesterday it would 'trigger a co-ordination of the Minsk Group' in the coming days to 'find a way out' of the crisis.

Armenia and Karabakh declared martial law and military mobilisation on Sunday, while Azerbaijan imposed military rule and a curfew in large cities.

Analysts warn that the conflict could escalate into a proxy conflict between Moscow and Ankara, who both wield influence in Syria and Libya already.

Michael Carpenter, a former Pentagon official, said any Turkish involvement would be 'hugely destabilising' and 'could lead to a proxy war between Turkey and Russia'.

Rita Katz, director of the SITE Intelligence monitoring group, said the two countries 'continue to vie for control across region, backing proxies on contentious non-secular lines' - referring to the fact that Azerbaijan is a majority-Muslim country, while most Armenians are Christians.

In addition to the EU and Russia, France, Germany, Italy and the United States have urged a ceasefire.

President Donald Trump said on Sunday that the United States would seek to end the violence. 'We're looking at it very strongly,' he told a news briefing. 'We have a lot of good relationships in that area. We'll see if we can stop it.'

Democratic nominee Joe Biden urged the White House to push for more observers along the ceasefire line and accused Russia of 'cynically providing arms to both sides.'

Erdogan last night discussed the crisis in a phone call with British PM Boris Johnson, with Downing Street calling for 'urgent de-escalation in the region'.

German chancellor Angela Merkel - who has clashed with Erdogan in the past - has called for an 'immediate ceasefire and a return to the negotiating table' after speaking with the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Five European countries - Belgium, Estonia, France, Germany and Britain - asked for a closed-door meeting of the UN Security Council on the escalating conflict on Tuesday.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres spoke to both countries' leaders and called for 'an immediate stop to the fighting, a de-escalation of tensions and a return to meaningful negotiations without preconditions or delay.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the situation 'is a cause for concern for Moscow and other countries.'

'We believe that the hostilities should be immediately ended,' Peskov said, adding that the process of resolving the conflict should shift into 'a politico-diplomatic' dimension.

Nuclear-armed Russia has a military base in Armenia and considers it to be a strategic partner in the South Caucasus region, supplying the ex-Soviet country with weapons.

The Kremlin has cast itself as a mediator but Azerbaijan claimed last month that Moscow was 'intensively arming Armenia' after earlier clashes in July.

Hostilities this year have been the worst since 2016, when intense fighting killed dozens and threatened to escalate into all-out war.

Nagorno-Karabakh broke away from Azerbaijan in a conflict that broke out as the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991.

Although a ceasefire was agreed in 1994, after thousands of people were killed and many more displaced, Azerbaijan and Armenia frequently accuse each other of attacks around Nagorno-Karabakh and along the separate Azeri-Armenian frontier.

During the worst recent Karabakh clashes in April 2016, around 110 people were killed.

In July 2020, heavy clashes along the two countries' shared border - hundreds of miles from Karabakh - claimed the lives of at least 17 soldiers from both sides.
I have always lived in Brooklyn and never needed a car. There is a strange sense of freedom to not owning a car, one less thing to worry about. But were moving to Westchester, where not having a car isnt really an option. Im also expecting my second child. So, not only do I need a car, I need a big car. Where to begin? Then, Lincoln asked if I wanted to try their new Aviator, and the timing felt serendipitous.

Being British, we have not been able to travel home for a very long time and have rarely left Dumbo on account of everything happening in the world. But we had a Labor Day weekend trip planned to Cape Cod, a five-hour drive to really get to know the Lincoln Aviator.

Related What If Things Were Made in America Again: One Mans Plan

The stylish design of the car is deceiving, as it also has a huge amount of space inside. It is the first time weve loaded a trunk for a weekend away without also having to put luggage elsewhere in the car. Loaded up with space to spare, we set off, blissfully oblivious to the fact that due to it being Labor Day weekend the drive was about to take hours. So, we were REALLY going to get to know the Lincoln Aviator.

Trunk of Lincoln Aviator. Photos courtesy of Lincoln





The panoramic vista roof spans the full length of the car, so despite often spending time in traffic, there was an open and calm nature to the journey. The sense of calm was also helped by the massage seats. Yes. Massage seats. The cars seats are super comfortable soft leather seats which are great in their own right. Seemingly novelty at first, you then realize that on a long trip, a chair that massages your back is pretty great.

The blind spot detection and distance guides really helped reduce the anxiety of what could have been a stressful situation. But it wasnt. The drive there was long but relaxing. The outside traffic noise is noticeably minimized, and the attention to acoustics is clearly evident. We arrived at the wonderful Chatham Bars Inn with my toddler excited to jump into their huge pool and us excited for him to burn off some energy.

Story continues

Related Worth Trying: A One-of-a-Kind Outdoor Dining Experience at Thyme Bar

The next two days driving around Cape Cod were stunning. Windows down and sunroof open, we drove around with smiles on our faces, spotting the many seals just offshore. While the pandemic has stopped us from visiting the UK, we felt satiated as this place reminded us of Cornwall in the UK. The temperature was a few degrees cooler than New York City, which also helped with the British feeling. We stopped for fish and chips at Chatham Pier Fish Market by the dock. (As a Brit, can I just say, the chips were not chips, they were fries; chips are chunkier. Rant over.) A local walked by and commented, Wow, Lincoln really came through with this car huh? They really did.

We felt sad to leave the Cape. The hotel was stunning and clean and driving around in a wonderful car was the perfect tonic after five months of social distancing in the city. I now realize that we should have had a car when we lived in the city. The freedom we felt of being able to drive and discover beautiful new places was incredible. I now also realize that you can drive large SUVs that look stylish. Im excited about my new driving chapter of living in the U.S., and Im glad Lincoln turned me on to it.

The post Worth Trying: Making the Most Stressful Road Trip Relaxing with Lincoln Aviator appeared first on Worth.
As temperatures rise and wildfires and smoke add to the strain on the electric grid, Californians were once again urged to conserve energy to prevent rolling blackouts.

The California Independent System Operator, which manages the power grid that covers most of the state, issued a call to save electricity for Thursday between 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Air conditioner use  a major source of power demand on hot days  was a big part of the issue. But at the same time, the grid operator said, fire activity and reduced capacity also contributed to the states potential energy shortage. Officials said some major transmission lines were under threat from wildfires; smoke was reducing solar power generation; and some power producers were offline due to fires (it was not immediately clear what power plants were unavailable).

Neither PG&E nor California ISO officials were able to specify which transmission lines were under threat from the wildfires or which communities they serve or what power production facilities were offline due to the fire.

Anne Gonzales, spokesperson for California ISO, said that wildfires generally pose a risk to transmission lines because of where they are usually located throughout the state.

"During wildfire season, which is getting longer and longer each year, it's a particular danger for transmission lines because they're are usually in rugged remote areas of the state. And that's where fires are usually present," said Gonzales."Fires in those areas also makes it harder for firefighters to fight them."

Maggie Winslow, director of the master of science in energy management systems program at the University of San Francisco, noted that utilities companies like PG&E sometimes shut down transmission lines so they dont spark fires.

She also said that when the lines get really hot, not much energy can be transferred through them.

I don't actually know if there were any lines that got burned up in the fires we've had in California so, but that certainly can happen, Winslow said.

Some communities in Napa and Sonoma counties lost power due to disruptions related to the fires; a PG&E official tweeted Thursday that the company is working with first responders to restore power safely and as quickly as possible to the those who can receive electric service after the #GlassFire in the North Bay.

To avoid power disruptions Thursday afternoon, people can set their thermostats to 78 degrees or higher, turn off unnecessary lights, unplug devices and not leave the refrigerator door open for extended periods of time.

Fire Tracker Follow wildfires across the state Latest updates on wildfires burning across Northern and Southern California

Grid officials also urged consumers to pre-cool their homes before the energy conservation request, called a Flex Alert, kicked in at 3 p.m., and not to charge electric cars during the energy conservation request.

The state saw rolling blackouts for two days in August during a prolonged heat wave, but escaped threatened blackouts on other occasions partly due to strong energy-saving efforts.

Flex Alerts are a really great way for everybody to do their part to keep the grid balanced. That program has produced good results because with electricity, you have to use it or lose it, said Stephanie Siehr, professor of energy management at the University of San Francisco.

We're facing now, yet again, another high heat event, which causes a surge in demand for cooling so that kind of throws up the usual operation of the grid. The Flex Alert is trying to smooth out and balance so that we don't have to do rotating outages, Siehr said.

Bryan Mena is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: Bryan.Mena@sfchronicle.com, Twitter @bpmena
Chennai, Oct 1 : Suspense continues over the next course of action at the Kerala-based Dhanlaxmi bank, a day after the shareholders voted out Managing Director (MD) and CEO Sunil Gurbaxani at the annual general meeting (AGM) on September 30, said industry officials.

"The bank has communicated the matter to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) about the shareholders' decision at the AGM to vote out Gurbaxani. The bank Board has sent to RBI its decision to form a Committee of Directors (CoD) to manage the day-to-day affairs of the bank till a new Managing Director and CEO is appointed," a source told IANS preferring anonymity.

The bank Board has recommended a three-member CoD comprising G. Subramonia Iyer (Chairman), G. Rajagopalan and P. K. Vijayakumar.

On the other hand Gurbaxani has not put in his papers after the shareholders voted him out.

Gurbaxani, too, is waiting for the RBI's decision on the issue, saying he was appointed by the Central bank.

Gurbaxani chose to be silent when asked for comments by IANS.

Industry experts told IANS that though a bank is governed by the Companies Act and the Banking Regulation Act, the latter overrides the former in case of any conflict of provisions.

It has to be seen whether the RBI will direct Dhanlaxmi bank to call another AGM as per the provisions of the Banking Regulation Act. If this happens the issue of shareholder democracy will also come into play.

There is already a view that the RBI seems to be micro-managing Dhanlaxmi bank by directing it to remove a former Chief General Manager appointed as an adviser.

Gurbaxani was appointed as Managing Director and CEO of the bank for a period of three years from February 27, 2020.

The ordinary resolution moved for Gurbaxani's appointment was defeated with 90.49 per cent of the votes polled against the proposal as per the regulatory filing. Only 9.51 per cent of the votes were polled in favour of his appointment.

Of the 10 resolutions moved at the AGM, the shareholders had passed nine and defeated one.

This is the second private bank where the shareholders have voted against the appointment of the Managing Director and CEO in recent days.

On September 25, the shareholders of Lakshmi Vilas Bank (LVB) had voted out seven directors, including the Managing Director and CEO, in the AGM. However, in the case of LVB the RBI had asked the Directors to form a CoD on the same day.

The RBI on September 28, 2020 had appointed Dhanlaxmi bank's General Manager at the Bengaluru Regional Office D. K. Kashyap as an Additional Director of Dhanlaxmi bank for a period of two years.

However, in a letter to RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das, the General Secretary of the All India Bank Employees' Association (AIBEA) C. H. Venkatachalam said it is hoped the move will strengthen effective monitoring and control by the RBI over the affairs of Dhanlaxmi bank.

Venkatachalam also suggested to Das that while appointing a new Managing Director and CEO for Dhanlaxmi bank, the RBI should keep the entire background and context in view and select a person who is familiar with the bank, its customers, depositors and shareholders as well as over nine decades of its existence.

(Venkatachari Jagannathan can be contacted at v.jagannathan@ians.in)
Ethnicity, party is stronger than faith in determining vote among evangelicals: poll

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A majority of voters who identify as evangelical support the reelection of President Donald Trump but this support remains skewed along ethnic and party lines, a new poll from Lifeway Research shows.

The online poll of 1,200 Americans conducted Sept. 9-23, with a plus or minus 3.2% margin of error, shows that among likely evangelical voters, 61% overall plan to vote for Trump while 29% are backing Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden. Some 8% were undecided while about 2% supported other candidates.

Breaking down evangelical voters by race, the poll shows that most of Trumps support from the group comes from white evangelicals. He leads Biden 73% to 18% among this group. When it comes to African American evangelicals, however, President Trump trails Biden 69% to 19%. Among other ethnicities, Trump holds a 58% to 32% lead among this group.

Among general Christians who attend church at least once a month, the poll shows Trump and Biden evenly split at 46% to 45%, respectively. The racial divide also remained persistent.

White churchgoers support Trump over Biden 59% to 30%, while African American churchgoers are solidly behind Biden, 86% to 9%. Biden also led Trump among Hispanic churchgoers, 58% to 36%, and among churchgoers of other ethnicities, 49% to 36%.

Different ethnic groups are more attuned to specific failures of our country and of specific candidates, Scott McConnell, executive director of LifeWay Research, said in a report on the poll. Ones ethnicity and political party are more powerful in predicting the vote of someone with evangelical beliefs than their shared religious convictions alone.

The divided outlook among evangelicals along racial lines exploded online as recently as Tuesday night during the first presidential debate between Trump and Biden when moderator and "Fox News Sunday" anchor Chris Wallace asked the president:

"You have criticized the vice president [Biden] for not specifically calling out ANTIFA and other left-wing extremist groups. But are you willing, tonight, to condemn white supremacists and militia groups, and to say that they need to stand down and not add to the violence in a number of these cities as we saw in Kenosha and we've seen in Portland?"

President Trump said "sure" he was "willing to do that," but noted that "almost everything I see is from the left-wing."

Biden then mentioned the Proud Boys, a far-right group led by Enrique Tarrio who's half black and half Cuban, while Wallace said white supremacists.

"The Proud Boys," Trump replied. "Stand back and stand by. But I'll tell you what, I'll tell you what, somebody's got to do something about Antifa and the left, because this is not a right-wing problem."

The statement stand back and stand by appeared to appall many watching the debate including prominent black Southern Baptist Convention Pastor Dwight McKissic who called out his peers for their silence on Twitter Wednesday.

SBC didnt hesitate to distance themselves from Prez Obama, in a resolution that was passed to congratulate him. Most SBC leaders will not distance themselves from Prez Trumps failure to denounce White Supremacy, last night. Politics, emotions & race explains, why not? Sad! he wrote.

In response to the media's accusations that the president has failed to condemn white supremacy, radio show host Annie Frey posted a thread on Twitter listing 16 times since 2016 that Trump has publicly condemned white supremacy.

Wallace asked the same question of Trump during a Republican primary debate in March 2016. In response, Trump said in part, "I totally disavow the Klu Klux Klan, I totally disavow David Duke."

In his first comment on the debate Wednesday, Trump said he did not know who the Proud Boys are.

Trump voters were more likely to cite the economy, 82%; national security, 67%; immigration, 62%; religious freedom, 49%; abortion, 44%; Supreme Court nominees, 42%; and the size and role of government, 40%, among the more important issues that determine their vote. Biden voters were more likely than Trump voters to point to COVID-19, 75%; racial injustice, 68%; and personal character, 66%, as behind their top issues for supporting the candidate.

When asked about the single most important issue in determining their vote, 26% of registered voters pointed to the economy, 22% said slowing the spread of COVID-19, while 15% said personal character. No other issue garnered more than 8%, according to the LifeWay report.

Most evangelicals are not single-issue voters, McConnell said. Eighty-nine percent of those with evangelical beliefs selected more than one important issue that is influencing their vote. Like other Americans, their top concerns reflect the current recession and pandemic, but more than 1 in 10 with evangelical beliefs will vote for the candidate they think will protect their religious freedom.
Shares of Gujarat Ambuja Exports zoomed 20 per cent to Rs 129.90, also its 52-week high on the BSE in intra-day trade on Thursday, as the stock split and was trading at a face value of Re 1. The company has fixed Monday, October 5, 2020, as the record date for the purpose of sub-division of equity shares of the company having face value of Rs 2 each to Re 1 each.

The board of directors of the company at its meeting held on July 25, 2020 had approved the sub-division of equity shares of the company. On rationale behind the sub-division, Gujarat Ambuja Exports said the market price of ...
BWXT has been busy painting itself as a good corporate citizen, but lets not forget that it is a nuclear arms manufacturer and is being sued in United States for contaminating a middle school with radiation. It is a business and operates to make money.

At the hearings in Toronto and Peterborough, many well-educated and experienced people showed up in good faith and raised their concerns about having uranium processing in both cities. It was often a very discouraging experience. Nuclear energy is overseen not by the Ministry of the Environment but by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission, which reports to the Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry. This is a bizarre state of affairs, which is a clear conflict of interest.

As Dr. James Deutsch (PhD in biochemistry), medical doctor and professor at U of T, said: So basically this neighbourhood (in Toronto) is a profit centre for an American corporation with the neighbourhood absorbing the externalities 

Dr. Rhageb, with over 40 years experience in nuclear safety (he helped design Bruce B and Pickering) expressed grave concerns about the lack of a proper safety analysis done for the design of incorporating pelleting operations into Peterborough, and called it a significant undertaking, with lots of safety challenges.

John Gibb, BASc, MA, OH&S (C), CPHI (C), said: The particulate size breaching the hepa filter coincides with the particulate size which has been found to cross the placental barrier to the fetus and also through the nasal olfactory route to the brain. He asks why there is no uranium air sampling less than 500 metres away from the factory in Toronto where they make pellets now. The playground for the smallest children at Prince of Wales School is 30 metres away from BWXT.

Through some administrative sleight of hand, BWXT and CNSC staff are trying to grandfather pelleting into Peterborough, even though present legislation would never allow it.

The CNSC seems to have missed the memo from WHOs IARC that uranium is a type one carcinogen once inside the body and more dangerous than previously thought.
Bollywood actor-producer-director Farhan Akhtar has dubbed media report as fake that claimed he has employed the services of late Sushant Singh Rajputs house staffer Keshav at his residence. Farhan took to social media to clear that the person being named in media, believed to to Sushants cook, is not working for him.

I have no person named Keshav working at mine. Unsurprisingly, another lie by a fake news channel famous for peddling lies. Please stop being so gullible. Just because a guy screams it out on TV doesnt make it true (sic)," wrote Farhan about media report claiming that Keshav is currently working for him.

For the record: I have no person named Keshav working at mine. Unsurprisingly, another lie by a fake news channel famous for peddling lies.Please stop being so gullible. Just because a guy screams it out on TV doesnt make it true. https://t.co/Fkex3iUHug Farhan Akhtar (@FarOutAkhtar) October 1, 2020

Reportedly, Keshav was present at Sushants house on June 14, which is when the actor allegedly died by suicide in Bandra, Mumbai. Keshav has been questioned by the Mumbai Police during the initial investigation and was later quizzed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), when the central probe agency took over Sushants death case in August.

Meanwhile, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and Enforcement Directorate (ED) are also probing drugs and money laundering angle respectively in Sushants case. So far, 20 people have been arrested by the NCB in a a probe that is allegedly looking into the Bollywood-drugs nexus.
They include Lal Krishna Advani, Prime Minister Modis predecessor at the head of the Hindu nationalist party. 32 people acquitted for lack of evidence. In 2019, the Supreme Court assigned the area where the mosque stood to Hindus. Muslim group: We will appeal. Opposition forces: The verdict violates the Constitution and the law.

New Delhi (AsiaNews) - An Indian court yesterday acquitted 32 members of the Hindu nationalist party BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party), now in power, of all charges for the demolition of the Babri mosque in Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh) 28 years ago.

The exonerated leaders include prominent figures, such as Lal Krishna Advani, predecessor of Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the helm of the BJP, Murali Manohar Joshi and Uma Bharti.

The judges ruled that there is not enough evidence to establish that leading BJP figures planned the destruction of the holy site (dating back to the 16th century) on December 6, 1992.

Within hours, a crowd of 150,000 Hindu radicals, including several members of the extremist Sangh Parivar formation, demolished the mosque. They claimed it stood on the remains of a temple dedicated to the god Ram. The attack resulted in severe clashes with the Muslim community, which resulted in around 2,000 deaths.

The acquittal of the representatives of the BJP means that still today no one is responsible for the massacre. Of the 49 people originally indicted, 17 died during the trial.

Indias Muslim community see this as the second major blow in just over a year. In 2019, ending a legal battle that lasted years, the Supreme Court assigned the area where the mosque stood to the Hindu community; Muslims were granted the right to build their place of prayer in another area of Ayodhya.

Last August, Modi laid the foundation stone for the construction of a Hindu temple on the site, thus fulfilling an old promise made at his constituency. The demolition of the Babri mosque is seen by many observers as a watershed in the country's recent history, marked by the rapid rise of the Hindu nationalist right.

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board, which brings together several Muslim political groups, has announced that it will appeal against yesterdays verdict. Two of the main opposition forces to the Modi government (the Congress and the Communist Party of India) also criticized the judges' decision. They speak of a "shameful violation of the Constitution and the law".
No application has yet been made to the Ontario government for a supervised drug consumption and treatment site in the city, says Peterborough-Kawartha MPP Dave Smith  but its not for lack of money or location.

Smith says he has had a commitment for $1 million in funding as well as a location on offer for a year now  the address of which he did not disclose  that would meet with government approval.

The challenge, he says, is that theres no single organization in Peterborough large enough to offer both supervised drug consumption and treatment services.

It means small, local non-profit organizations in the field of addictions and mental health must work together as a team, Smith said, and so far thats not been possible.

Theres been lots of conversations about working together, Smith said, but no agreement on issues such as which agency would take the lead and how others would contribute.

Furthermore, each local agency offers a specialized service, Smith said, and theres been concern about each one encroaching on the others area of expertise.

The various agencies have also been unable to agree on the suitability of a location thats been available since October 2019, Smith added, so theyve begun to search elsewhere.

If the agencies had reached an agreement on the location, Smith says, they could potentially have applied for funding and opened a facility by June 2020.

But no application can be submitted without a team to staff a centre or a prospective address, Smith said. Recently the group was very, very close to consensus on a team and a prospective location, he said, but it was derailed again.

Smith said hes tried reducing the number of agencies working together to perhaps arrive at agreement, but theres still no application ready.

In the meantime, Smith said, hes concerned about continued opioid poisonings: Peterborough saw 29 suspected opioid overdose deaths in 2019, and 34 suspected overdose deaths this year so far.

About 17 of this years fatalities have occurred since early June, and Smith says those people could potentially have been saved if a site had been opened three months ago.

Im frustrated beyond all belief. I have the commitment for the money, he said.

Smith said a funding application would have the support of MPP Michael Tibollo, associate minister for mental health and addictions, who attended a summit on the opioid crisis at Market Hall in July 2019.

No comment was available from Tibollo on Wednesday.

Smith said he could not reveal the address of the available location offered up for the facility because it would need to undergo a process of public consultation to get a federal exemption to the laws against illicit drug use.

A community has to approve of the location before the federal government will grant such an exemption, and Smith said that if the address were revealed without the full details available to the public as part of a public consultation the process would be compromised before it begins.

Smith also didnt name the organizations that are having difficulty working together, saying The Examiner could make an educated guess about which ones are involved.

The Examiner contacted seven local non-profits on Wednesday that offer services such as harm reduction, addiction counselling and mental health care to ask whether working together has proven challenging.

The only response came from Mark Graham, the CEO of the local branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA HKPR), who said opioid poisonings in Peterborough have reached epidemic proportions.

The number of people dying by opiate poisonings are increasing daily and we strongly believe that providing a consumption treatment site is essential for our community, Graham stated in an email.

CMHA continues to actively support all collaborative efforts to make a CTS (consumption and treatment services site) in Peterborough a reality.
The district administration in Hathras has imposed Section 144 in the area and has banned the entry of all 'outsiders' including media persons, in the Boolgarhi village where the 19-year-old Dalit girl was gang-raped and died later.

District Magistrate Praveen Lakshkar said that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) , set up to probe the incident, had reached the village and was interacting with the family and other people to record their statements.

"They do not want any disturbance and hence, all entry of outsiders has been stopped," he said.

The District Magistrate further said that he had no information of Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Vadra reaching Hathras to meet the bereaved family.


CHICAGO (dpa-AFX) - Boeing's most popular 737 MAX, which has been grounded for long following two fatal crashes, has passed a major milestone in its efforts to return to service.



In a statement, Federal Aviation Administration or FAA announced that Administrator Steve Dickson has completed Boeing 737 MAX flight before the FAA approves the aircraft's return to service.



Dickson's flight, which took two hours, included a number of scenarios to demonstrate the proposed software and design changes to the aircraft's automated flight control system.



Dickson noted that his flight was separate from the official certification process that's still underway by the FAA.



The Administrator, along with FAA Deputy Administrator Dan Elwell, completed the new recommended pilot training for the aircraft on Tuesday.



The FAA noted that Dickson's flight is an important milestone, but other key steps remain in its evaluation of Boeing's proposed changes to the aircraft's flight control system and training.



These include Flight Standardization Board or FSB Report, Final Design Documentation and Technical Advisory Board or TAB Report, Continued Airworthiness Notification to the International Community & AD, FAA Rescinds Grounding Order, Certificates of Airworthiness, as well as Operator Training Programs.



The U.S. aviation regulator said these actions are applicable only to U.S. air carriers and U.S.-registered aircraft. The FAA will inform other civil aviation authorities, but they are required to take their own actions to return the Boeing 737 MAX to service for their air carriers.



The agency did not want to speculate about how long it will take for the aircraft to return to passenger service.



'We will lift the grounding order only after FAA safety experts are satisfied that the aircraft meets certification standards,' the agency said.



It was in late June that the FAA began its formal test flights of Boeing 737 Max, evaluating the proposed changes to the automated flight control system on the aircraft.



Boeing's best-selling aircraft was grounded worldwide in March 2019 after two crashes killed all 346 people aboard Lion Air Flight 610 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302.



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

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About 2,500 new alien plant and animal species including the raccoon and American lobster, could arrive in Europe by 2050, a new study predicts.

University College London experts believe the number of non-native species around the world could increase by 36 per cent by mid-century compared to 2005.

In the study, published in the journal Global Change Biology, the team said the rise will be particularly seen in insects, arthropods and birds.

In Europe, where the rate of invasion is predicted to be the highest, new arrivals will increase for all plant and animal groups except mammals, they added.

The team behind this new study say the racoon is a particular risk for the UK if it arrives as it would be a predator to a range of British animal species.

The researchers say imposing stricter bio-security regulations and limits on international trade could help reduce the number of invasive species.

The team behind this new study say the racoon (pictured) is a particular risk for the UK if it arrives as it would be a predator to a range of British animal species

There are a number of species the team are particularly worried about, including the racoon which is already in Europe, and the American lobster which could out breed native lobster

The most recent comprehensive global catalogue of non-native species took place in 2005, where more than 35,000 such plants, insects and animals were recorded.

Study co-author Tim Blackburn, a professor at University College London studies the threat from non-native - or alien - species on ecosystems and looks at future threats.

While this new study didn't focus on any individual species, looking at the wider picture, previous work by Blackburn and colleagues looks at species posing a threat.

The Sacred Ibis is also among the species that could come to the UK - it is a potentially serious predator of birds and amphibians  including species of conservation concern

Each colour on this graph represents a different region of the world and shows the increase in different 'alien species' since 1800 and projected up to 2050

In 2014 they looked at 500 potential arrivals and found 93 of them posed a medium risk to native wildlife and since then some - including the Asian Hornet - have arrived.

'I would say that we can expect dozens of new aliens to arrive here by 2050, likely in the hundreds, especially if biosecurity is not tightened,' Blackburn said.

For the new study, the British team developed a mathematical model to calculate how many more non-native would be expected by 2050.

The model was based on estimated sizes of source pools (the species that could end up becoming invasive) and dynamics of historical invasions, under a 'business-as-usual' scenario that assumes a continuation of current trends.

ALIEN SPECIES THAT 'MAY POSE A THREAT' TO UK WILDLIFE Raccoon: Would be a very problematic generalist competitor and predator for a range of British animals species. The American lobster: Has the potential to interbreed with the native lobster but it is also known to carry a bacterial disease. The Sacred Ibis: Potentially serious predator of birds and amphibians  including species of conservation concern. Pine processionary moth: A pest with hairs that pose a health hazard and a threat to broadleaved tree species. Corbicula fluminalis Asian Clam: An ecosystem engineer, driving ecological change to river systems through its high densities coupled with large filtration capacity. Indian House Crow: Adaptable and widespread invasive species globally with evidence of negative impact on native birds. Emerald Ash Borer: One of most destructive forest pests in US and Canada, attacking Fraxinus spp. Kills trees in 2-5 years. Advertisement

A non-native or 'alien' species are those that have been moved around the world to places where they do not naturally occur.

Some of these species can become invasive, such as the signal crayfish and grey squirrel in the UK - causing damage to the ecosystems and killing off native species.

They are also costly the clear up - invasive species costs the UK economy 1.7 billion every year with 116 million spent tackling Japanese knotweed alone.

Blackburn said these species will continue to be added to ecosystems at high rates for the next few decades.

There are a number of species the team are particularly worried about, including the racoon which is already in Europe, and the American lobster.

'This has the potential to interbreed with the native lobster but it is also known to carry a bacterial disease known to be lethal to our native species,' said Blackburn.

Birds pose a major risk to the British eco-system, the team found. The Sacred Ibis is a potentially serious predator to native birds and amphibians if it arrives.

'This is concerning as this could contribute to harmful biodiversity change and extinction,' Blackburn added.

'But we are not helpless bystanders: with a concerted global effort to combat this, it should be possible to slow down or reverse this trend.'

Based on their findings, Dr Blackburn said, on average, around 1,200 new species are expected to arrive in each of the eight regions by mid century.

They are Africa, temperate Asia, tropical Asia, Australia, Europe, North America, South America, and Pacific Islands.

The largest increase is expected in Europe, he added, where the number of alien species is expected to rise by 64 per cent.

Japanese knotweed is an invasive plant species in the UK and costs the country 166 million per year in cleanup efforts

Box tree moth, native to east Asia and now found across Europe. The researchers say imposing stricter regulations could help reduce the numbers

Parts of Asia, North America, and South America are also predicted to be alien hotspots with the lowest relative increase expected in Australia.

Lead author Dr Hanno Seebens, of the Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre in Germany, said we'll never completely prevent alien species being introduced as it would require 'severe restrictions in international trade'.

'However, stricter regulations and their rigorous enforcement could greatly slow the flow of new species,' Seebens explained.

'The benefits of such measures have been shown in some parts of the world.

'Regulations are still comparatively lax in Europe, and so there is great potential here for new measures to curtail the arrival of new aliens.'

Egyptian goose (Alopochen aegyptiaca) originally from Africa and now established in Central and Western Europe is among the 'invasive alien species' spreading around the world

Britain's native red squirrel is put at risk by the invasive grey squirrel and the number of invasive species is expected to increase over the next few decades

Neither a reversal nor even a slowdown in the spread of alien species is in sight, as global trade and transport are expected to increase in the coming decades, allowing many species to infiltrate new habitats as stowaways.

Co-author Dr Franz Essl from the University of Vienna added: "Increases are expected to be particularly large for insects and other arthropods, such as arachnids and crustaceans.

'We predict the number of aliens from these groups to increase in every region of the world by the middle of the century - by almost 120 per cent in the temperate latitudes of Asia.'

The findings have been published in the journal Global Change Biology.
NEW YORK, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against HDFC Bank Limited ("HDFC or the "Company") (NYSE: HDB) and certain of its officers. The class action, filed in United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York, and docketed under 20-cv-04140, is on behalf of a class consisting of all persons other than Defendants who purchased or otherwise, acquired HDFC Bank securities between July 31, 2019, and July 10, 2020, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"), seeking to recover damages caused by Defendants' violations of the federal securities laws and to pursue remedies under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act") and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder, against the Bank and certain of its top officials.

If you are a shareholder who purchased HDFC securities during the class period, you have until November 2, 2020, to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com. To discuss this action, contact Robert S. Willoughby at [email protected] or 888.476.6529 (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased.

[Click here for information about joining the class action]

HDFC Bank was founded in 1994 and is based in Mumbai, India. The Bank provides various banking and financial services to individuals and businesses in India, Bahrain, Hong Kong, and Dubai.

HDFC Bank operates in Treasury, Retail Banking, Wholesale Banking, Other Banking Business, and Unallocated segments, offering, among other services, various types of loans to millions of its retail borrowers, including personal and vehicle financing loans.

Revenues generated from HDFC Bank's auto and commercial vehicle loans are reported as part of the Bank's Retail Banking segment.

The Complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding the Bank's business, operational and compliance policies. Specifically, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) HDFC Bank had inadequate disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting; (ii) as a result, the Bank maintained improper lending practices in its vehicle-financing operations; (iii) accordingly, earnings generated from the Bank's vehicle-financing operations were unsustainable; (iv) all the foregoing, once revealed, was foreseeably likely to have a material negative impact on the Bank's financial condition and reputation; and (v) as a result, the Bank's public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.

On July 13, 2020, during pre-market hours, The Economic Times published an article titled "HDFC Bank probes lending practices at vehicle unit." That article reported that HDFC Bank had "conducted a probe into allegations of improper lending practices and conflicts of interests in its vehicle-financing operations involving the unit's former head."

On this news, HDFC Bank's American Depositary Share ("ADS") price fell $1.37 per share, or 2.83%, to close at $47.02 per share on July 13, 2020.

The Pomerantz Firm, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Paris is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, the Pomerantz Firm pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 80 years later, the Pomerantz Firm continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomerantzlaw.com.

CONTACT:

Robert S. Willoughby

Pomerantz LLP

[email protected]

SOURCE Pomerantz LLP

Related Links

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The House race in Virginia's usually red 5th District appears within reach for Democratic candidate Cameron Webb, with two nonpartisan political analyst sites saying he is proving competitive against Republican Bob Good.

Between Wednesday night and Thursday afternoon, both Sabato's Crystal Ball at the University of Virginia and Inside Elections shifted their race ratings in Webb's favor. Sabato's now rates the race a toss-up, rather than "leans Republican," while Inside Elections has shifted the race from "likely Republican" to "leans Republican."

Nathan Gonzales, editor of InsideElections, said he and his analysts have been hesitant to shift the rating too far in Webb's favor given the clear "conservative DNA" among voters in the sprawling district, which stretches from Fauquier County to the Shenandoah Valley, through Appomattox and into Southside Virginia along the North Carolina border.

Explaining Thursday's change, Gonzales cited Good's poor early fundraising compared with Webb's, as well as struggles within the Republican Party to unite behind Good after his victory over incumbent Rep. Denver Riggleman during a bitter GOP nominating convention.

"This district, under normal circumstances, is going to elect a Republican," Gonzales said. "The question is whether these are normal circumstances. The fact that it's an open seat helps [Webb], because defeating an incumbent is usually more difficult. Facing an underfunded challenger helps. Having a divided opposition party helps."

The Cook Political Report shifted the race to a toss-up on Sept. 18, saying Webb might just be the Democratic "unicorn" capable of pulling off a victory in a district that President Donald Trump won in 2016 by 11 points.

Webb, who would become the first Black physician in Congress if elected, is also a lawyer and health policy professor at the University of Virginia. He is campaigning in support of a public health insurance option and criminal justice policy changes. He trounced an otherwise impressive slate of Democratic candidates during the primary, winning two-thirds of the vote.

But political analysts acknowledge hurdles for Webb. In the past, the district has been open to far-right candidates such as Good, a self-described "biblical conservative" who pledges unwavering support for Trump's agenda. Corey Stewart, the Republican Senate candidate who openly supported Confederate imagery during his campaign, won the 5th District by two percentage points in 2018.

Still, Miles Coleman, associate editor at Sabato's Crystal Ball, said it would not be wise for Good to bank on simply riding the coattails of a likely Trump victory in the district. In 2008, the last time a Democrat, Tom Perriello, won the seat, GOP presidential nominee John McCain carried the district.

"The sense I get is Bob Good is kind of doing the bare minimum," Coleman said. "To me, it seems like he's relying on the fact that this is a Trump seat."

Good, a former board supervisor in Campbell County, seems to be speaking to the Trump base on "red-meat" issues such as criminal justice, Coleman said, while repeatedly trying to paint his opponent as a "radical." He often accuses Webb of supporting defunding the police, which is also the underpinning of a new attack ad by the Congressional Leadership Fund, the super PAC devoted to electing Republicans in the House.

Webb, whose father worked for the Drug Enforcement Administration, has cited the endorsement of a former Campbell County sheriff and others, and by saying Good voted for a budget that included a decrease in police funding while he was a board supervisor.

Coleman said Webb appears to be trying to attract crossover votes from moderates or independents, with ads featuring farmers in rural south-central Virginia and law enforcement veterans.

As of June 30 campaign finance filings, Webb had raised more than five times as much as Good; updated reports are due by mid-month. Gonzales said he expects outside groups to try to bridge that gap with ad buys and messaging.
Shadowboxing. Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images

Donald Trump runs the government like a business  specifically, like a private company owned by his family, along with a consortium of junior investors.

After spending the bulk of his first 70 years on Earth lording over enterprises that answered to his whims, the billionaire has proved unable or unwilling to accept that the U.S. president is not the owner and sole proprietor of the federal government. Thus, shortly after taking office, Trump flew into an indignant rage when his first attorney general declined to comport himself as though he were the presidents personal attorney. Trump publicly touted his great respect for the way former AG Eric Holder supposedly protected Obama from legal accountability and insisted that he expected nothing less from whomever he hired to run the Justice Department division of White House by Trump.

In the years since, the president has relentlessly sought to coerce federal entities into carrying out his orders, rather than the functions mandated by the democratically enacted laws that brought those agencies into being. Thus, Trumps Health Department used taxpayer money to air anti-Obamacare propaganda, his DOJ helped get an ally out of legal trouble, U.S. diplomats worked to coerce a foreign government into investigating the presidents domestic political rivals, and National Guard troops assisted the Republicans midterm campaign, traveling to the border so as to lend credence to Trumps warnings of an illegal migration crisis, which was not visible in the border-crossing data and curiously disappeared from the White Houses radar right after the 2018 elections had passed.

Now, in the past 24 hours, weve learned that the Trump administration has drafted the Agriculture Department into its 2020 campaign  and the Department of Homeland Security onto Kyle Rittenhouses defense team.

Since May, the USDA has been redirecting meat and produce from farms that normally serve restaurants  and thus have seen a steep drop-off in demand  to those in need of nutritional aid. Last week, the White House ordered the Families to Farmers Food Box Program to include a letter from President Donald Trump inside every package delivered to a hungry household. As President, safeguarding the health and well-being of our citizens is one of my highest priorities, the letter reads. As part of our response to coronavirus, I prioritized sending nutritious food from our farmers to families in need throughout America.

The fact that Trump is using the powers of his office to disseminate a politically advantageous message during the home stretch of his reelection campaign would be outrageous (and arguably unlawful) even if that message were accurate. But the obscenity of Trumps order is compounded by the fact that the letter is misleading: Throughout negotiations over COVID-19 relief, the presidents political opposition has fought to deliver more nutritional aid to needy families than Trumps party has been willing to support.

The administrations ploy is all the more egregious for the Agriculture Departments Orwellian approach to defending it. Politics has played zero role in the Farmers to Families food box program, the agency said in a statement to Politico. It is purely about helping farmers and distributors get food to Americans in need during this unprecedented time.

Presumably, if a program is purely about getting food to Americans, there would be no reason to require it to also deliver presidential letters to Americans  especially when those letters have caused some local charities to leave the food undelivered for fear of jeopardizing their nonprofit status by aiding a political campaign.

Meanwhile, at the Department of Homeland Security, federal law-enforcement officials were instructed last month to express sympathy for Kyle Rittenhouse, the 17-year-old Illinois resident who traveled to Kenosha, Wisconsin, with an (illegally possessed) AR-15 to defend law and order in that city  and ended up shooting two people dead. Specifically, in internal documents obtained by NBC News, DHS officials were advised to respond to any questions about Rittenhouses case by noting that Rittenhouse took his rifle to the scene of the rioting to help defend small business owners (curiously, the document simultaneously advises the officials to say that they could not comment on an ongoing investigation, before offering comments sympathetic to the subject of an ongoing investigation).

Officials were further counseled to describe Rittenhouses alleged actions as an object lesson in the importance of suppressing urban chaos. This is also why we need to stop the violence in our cities, the talking points read. Chaotic and violent situations lead to chaotic, violent and tragic outcomes. Everyone needs law and order.

To this point, DHS officials have largely ignored these messaging cues. But the department may provide Trumps campaign with a more brutal form of aid later this month. As the Washington Post reported Tuesday:

The Trump administration is preparing an immigration enforcement blitz next month that would target arrests in U.S. cities and jurisdictions that have adopted sanctuary policies, according to three U.S. officials who described a plan with public messaging that echoes the presidents law-and-order campaign rhetoric. The Immigration and Customs Enforcement operation, known informally as the sanctuary op, could begin in California as soon as later this week. It would then expand to cities including Denver and Philadelphia, according to two of the officials, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to describe sensitive government law enforcement plans  Two officials with knowledge of plans for the sanctuary op described it as more of a political messaging campaign than a major ICE operation, noting that the agency already concentrates on immigration violators with criminal records and routinely arrests them without much fanfare.

All of this clarifies the stakes of Novembers election. The Biden-Trump race will not merely decide whether Democrats regain control of the White House  but also whether the American public regains control of the federal institutions that are meant to work them or whether those agencies will remain so many divisions of the Trump Organization D.C.
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Thu, October 1, 2020 18:26 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c488421e 4 National ridwan-kamil,West-Java,COVID-19,task-force,coronavirus,pandemic,regional-elections Free

West Java Governor Ridwan Kamil has opened an office in Depok to optimize efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19 in Jakartas surrounding areas in West Java, as ordered by the central government.

Nearly 70 percent of COVID-19 cases in West Java are contributed by Bodebek [Bogor, Depok, Bekasi], so the central government directed me to focus on handling those areas, Ridwan said on Wednesday, as quoted by tempo.co.

Read also: West Java asks central govt for PCR kits to boost testing

Ridwan, who spends most of his time in the provinces capital of Bandung, said having an office in Depok could also help him carry out a number of tasks more intensely in the red zones, including monitoring the regional elections at the end of the year.

Once or twice a week, depending on the situation, I would mostly be in Bodebek areas, especially in Depok, he said, adding that his plan would last for several months.

He hoped he could set an example for COVID-19 task forces in Bodebek to work harder to curb case numbers.

Read also: Interview with Governor Ridwan Kamil: West Javas technological strides against COVID-19

He said the West Java Police and the Military Command (Kodam) III/Siliwangi in Bandung had also carried out this tactical policy.

Where there is a red zone, where there are high numbers of violations, the police chief and the military commander will send their teams to back up, he said.

Recently, he said, the West Java Police had tasked its leading officers in Cirebon with controlling virus transmission as the city became a red zone.

Moreover, the West Java deputy police chief had opened an office in Bogor to directly help the city to mitigate the outbreak, he added. (syk)
Vice President Dr. Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia on Wednesday, September 30, 2020 climaxed his visit to the Ayawaso North and East constituencies with a durbar at the Kawukudi Park.



Dr. Bawumia started his day 2 of the four-day tour of the Greater Accra Region to the Ayawaso North and East constituencies where he interacted with the Chiefs and people in the constituencies.



Speaking at the durbar, he said the NPP government is the only government, since Ghanas independence, which has made the development of Zongos a top priority.



He stated the Zongo Development Fund, building of astro turfs, building of 37 ICT centres across the country with 40 students from Zongos given the opportunity to go to Cuba and study medicine, are all initiatives implemented by the Nana Addo government to develop Zongos.



Dr. Bawumia urged the people of Ayawaso North and East to vote massively for their Parliamentary candidates, Alhaji Manaf and Peter Mireku respectively and for President Nana Akufo-Addo.



He added that the NPP government deserves four more years to carry on with its massive infrastructural development and social interventions.



Also addressing the people of Mamobi, Nima and its environs at the Kawukudi Park, Chief Imam, Saraki Luis commended the NPP government for their stern leadership and development across the country.



He further called for massive support from the indigenes for the NPP.













Source: Pious Baidoo Banson/Peace FM News









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.

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Opposition leaders from across the country condemned the detainment of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi by Uttar Pradesh Police while he was on his way to meet the family members of the 19-year-old Hathras gangrape victim.

The Congress leader was walking to his destination along with his sister Priyanka Gandhi after their convoy was stopped at Yamuna Expressway, citing imposition of Section 144.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Sharad Pawar slammed the reckless behaviour of the police and called the incident extremely condemnable.

Reckless behaviour of UP Police towards @INCIndia leader Shri @RahulGandhi is extremely condemnable. It is reprehensible for those who are supposed to uphold the law to trample upon the democratic values in such a manner, he tweeted.

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam president M K Stalin said that the incident showed the extent of atrocities and injustices faced by citizens under a ruthless government.

I strongly condemn #Hathras & #Balrampur rape cases which show the extent of atrocities & injustices faced by citizens under such a ruthless & cruel govt. If @RahulGandhi can be manhandled for seeking #JusticeForIndiasDaughters what protects the common man from @myogiadityanath?, Stalin tweeted.

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor shared photos of the scuffle between UP Police and Rahul Gandhi on his Twitter handle, and said that Opposition presence was being termed as politicisation. Earlier in the day, Union minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi had urged the opposition to not increase the tension through political tourism.

Godi media terms opposition presence as politicisation: how low will they bend to serve their masters agenda? The role of Opposition is to stand up for the victims of a Govt which lets lawlessness run rife, denies any form of justice to the family & tries to cremate the truth, Tharoor tweeted.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan slammed the UP Police for preventing Rahul Gandhi from visiting the victims family, calling the move anti-democratic.

Rahul Gandhi has every democratic right to go to Hathras. There is also constitutional freedom. The move to eliminate it all is ultimately anti-democratic. This cannot be allowed in a democratic society. The police assault on Rahul Gandhi is a reprehensible act, said Vijayan in an official statement.

The 19-year-old gangrape victim had succumbed to her injuries in Delhis Safdarjung Hospital on Tuesday.

(with agency inputs)
TechnipFMC (NYSE:FTI) (PARIS:FTI) (ISIN:GB00BDSFG982) has been awarded a large(1) contract by Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:XOM) subsidiary Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited ("EEPGL") for the subsea system for the proposed Payara project.

TechnipFMC will manufacture and deliver the subsea production system, including 41 enhanced vertical deep water trees and associated tooling, six flexible risers and ten manifolds along with associated controls and tie-in equipment.

Arnaud Pieton, President Subsea stated: "We are delighted to take the next step in the partnership established with ExxonMobil and the country of Guyana for their subsea developments. As a continuation from Liza phase 1 and 2, this award is a tribute to the value created through this partnership and will also lead to growing further TechnipFMC's local presence in Guyana. We continue to develop and deliver the most advanced proven subsea technologies enabling these developments with the schedule certainty required for the Payara Project first oil."

In support of this project, TechnipFMC will continue hiring and training Guyanese engineers.

Payara is the second oil discovery in the Stabroek Block located approximately 193 km (120 miles) offshore Guyana with water depths of 1,500 m (4,900 ft) to 1,900 m (6,200 ft). ExxonMobil affiliate, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), is the operator.

(1) For TechnipFMC, a "large" contract ranges between $500 million and $1 billion.

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This release contains "forward-looking statements" as defined in Section 27A of the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The words "believe", "estimated" and other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, which are generally not historical in nature. Such forward-looking statements involve significant risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from our historical experience and our present expectations or projections. For information regarding known material factors that could cause actual results to differ from projected results, please see our risk factors set forth in our filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, which include our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and Current Reports on Form 8-K. We caution you not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any of our forward-looking statements after the date they are made, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent required by law.

About TechnipFMC

TechnipFMC is a global leader in the energy industry; delivering projects, products, technologies and services. With our proprietary technologies and production systems, integrated expertise, and comprehensive solutions, we are transforming our customers' project economics.

Organized in three business segments Subsea, Surface Technologies and Technip Energies we are uniquely positioned to deliver greater efficiency across project lifecycles from concept to project delivery and beyond. Through innovative technologies and improved efficiencies, our offering unlocks new possibilities for our customers in developing their energy resources and in their positioning to meet the energy transition challenge.

Each of our approximately 37,000 employees is driven by a steady commitment to clients and a culture of project execution, purposeful innovation, challenging industry conventions, and rethinking how the best results are achieved.

TechnipFMC utilizes its website www.TechnipFMC.com as a channel of distribution of material company information. To learn more about us and how we are enhancing the performance of the world's energy industry, go to www.TechnipFMC.com and follow us on Twitter @TechnipFMC.

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The pandemic has disrupted life as we knew it, and the Trump administration has upended American policies along with it. The Times foreign affairs columnist Tom Friedman joined us for a DealBook Debrief call to make sense of it all.

Highlights:

 I think hes out for regime change.

President Trump has broken countless norms of political life, both at home and abroad, in ways that Tom said worried him greatly. One area of particular concern is China policy, where Mr. Trumps hard-line approach is both too headstrong and counterproductive. Of Beijings leaders, Tom said, they know as long as Trump is president, he can never galvanize the global coalition against them.

 We are going to see innovation on steroids.

Not all of the upheaval of recent months has been bad. While acknowledging the toll of the pandemic on lives and livelihoods, Tom said that changes brought about in response to the coronavirus have set us up for one of the most massive, amazing, creative and destructive periods of human history. Innovative thinking, aided by advanced and cheap technology, could bring major changes to how we live and work.

 Its flatter than ever.

Has the pandemic wiped out the idea of globalization? Tom  whose bookThe World Is Flat examined the increasing interconnectedness of the 21st century  doesnt think so. Its flatter than ever because when it comes to globalization, I am a technological determinist, he said, pointing to the ubiquity of smartphones. Technology is not just interconnecting the world, he added. Its actually making the world interdependent.
Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has asked the people of Ashaiman to change their voting pattern and give the governing New Patriotic Party a chance in the December elections.

Dr Bawumia said Ashaiman has not experienced any significant improvement despite years of voting massively for the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Speaking at a meeting with the Ashaiman Traditional Council as part of his tour of the Greater Accra Region, Dr. Bawumia said it is about time the people of Ashaiman vote for the NPP.

NDC has dominated the governance here, so if your problems are not being solved under NDC, it is time to bring in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to solve them. Our elders say we cannot continue doing the same thing and expect different results. So let's change the market we are shopping in and go for a different one, he said.

---citinewsroom
TEL AVIV, Israel, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Vascular Graft Solutions Ltd. (VGS), an Israel-based innovative commercial-stage medical device company, announced today that the China National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) granted Innovative Medical Device Designation for VEST, an external stent for vein grafts in coronary artery bypass surgery. VEST was proven to mitigate the underlying factors leading to vein grafts disease; disturbed flow pattern, high wall tension, and progression of intimal hyperplasia.

VEST was granted Innovative Medical Device Designation in China

NMPA provides a fast-track approval pathway for breakthrough medical devices. The granted priority manifests in the classification determination, pre-clinical testing, QMS auditing, and NMPA review and approval processes.

"We are excited that VEST has been granted the Innovative Device Designation," said Eyal Orion, M.D., founder, and CEO of VGS. "Only one out of five medical devices granted innovative device status by NMPA in 2019, of which only 20% were of overseas companies. This recognition will accelerate our communications with the NMPA as well as shorten the time-to-market of VEST in China. This is an important milestone in our journey to improve the clinical outcome of coronary bypass surgery."

The innovative medical device designation provides a support platform for the assigned technologies to enter the Chinese market. VEST is now officially listed on the NMPA website and VGS was assigned a designated NMPA reviewer which will consult the company on the clinical plan and guide the company through the registration process. In addition, this recognition will prioritize the technical review and QA inspection. This translates to an expedited and qualitative process and ultimately final approval by NMPA.

About VGS and VEST

VGS is a privately held company located in Tel Aviv, Israel. The company develops novel solutions in the field of cardiovascular surgery. VEST is a CE marked external support device for treatment of saphenous vein grafts in coronary bypass procedures. VEST targets the root causes of vein graft failure. The device underwent several randomized trials in leading heart centers in Europe, was implanted successfully in approximately 5,000 patients and is commercialized in the EU, Australia, Mexico and South Africa.

CONTACT:

Rotem Katzenellenbogen,

VP Business Development VGS

[email protected]

SOURCE Vascular Grafts Solutions
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Linkedin Gisela Swaragita (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Thu, October 1, 2020 17:47 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4883119 1 Environment forest,tourism,conservation,Leuser,environment Free

There is a famous line from the Indonesian hit movie Ada Apa dengan Cinta? (What's Up with Love?), from a poem written by lead character Rangga: Ku lari ke hutan. But for nonprofit organization Hutan Itu Indonesia (Forest is Indonesia), Ku Lari Ke Hutan (I Run to the Forest) is a program to create sustainable recreation for tourists while taking care of nature. The program allows tourists to run in forests and get involved in replanting them.

However, with the current health crisis, the program has shifted to an online platform called Kalori Untuk Hutan (Calories for Forest).

From running in the forest, now the program has switched to working out at home while telling a personal story about the forests near to where the participants live or ones they have visited, said Andre Christian, the organization's leader, during an online panel discussion titled Conservation amid Pandemic: Where to Go?. Held on Sep. 25, it was organized by travel website TelusiRI.id.

Participants are expected to do any kind of sport anywhere to burn or release calories as well as to be able to create their own forests at home or in their neighborhoods, Andre said. He added that the biggest challenge in conservation was encouraging city dwellers to join the cause.

With Kalori Untuk Hutan, urbanites are challenged to work out from home frmo Oct. 5 to 25 and burn 1 million calories collectively.

They are also encouraged to raise funds for the Soraya Research Station located deep in the Leuser forest of Aceh.

The station was built in 1994 but later neglected after a local dispute in the logging industry. In 2014, the Leuser Conservation Forum in collaboration with the Aceh Forestry Agency reactivated the station, which overlooks a forest area of 500 hectares.

People who are interested in joining the cause can visit their official website.

The panel discussion Conservation amid Pandemic: Where to Go? was part of TelusuRIs Tourism Week, which ran from Sep. 21 to 27. It featured online events and panel discussions focused on the tourism industry, which is among the hardest-hit sectors amid the pandemic. (wng)

Topics : forest tourism conservation Leuser environment
The Rev. Pat Wattigny, the longtime former chaplain at Metairies Archbishop Rummel High School and current pastor of St. Luke the Evangelist in Slidell, is the latest Catholic priest added to the Archdiocese of New Orleans' list of clergy credibly accused of child sexual molestation.

The archdiocese on Thursday said that Wattigny, who also briefly served as the president of Pope John Paul II High School in Slidell, told church officials Thursday afternoon that he abused a minor in 2013. Though that is the same year his tenure at Rummel and St. Benilde ended, and he was transferred to the north shore, the archdiocese said Friday it was unaware of any alleged abuse, and his move was unrelated.

+6 After years of accusations, this retired New Orleans priest is now on a clergy abuse list When the Archdiocese of New Orleans issued a list two years ago that included dozens of clergymen credibly accused of sexual abuse, Mike Brand

The statement didnt elaborate on the incident Wattigny disclosed. But in the same statement, the archdiocese said a second north shore priest, Rev. Travis Clark, had been arrested on allegations related to obscenity. Clark was serving as chaplain at Pope John Paul II as of Thursday, according to the school's website. The position had until recently been held by Wattigny.

New Orleans Archbishop Gregory Aymond issued a statement saying "both of these situations are very troubling to me" and asking for the community's prayers.

"When a priest does not live out his vocation faithfully, he suffers consequences," Aymond said. "Please pray for all those affected, especially the parishioners of the parishes and school communities where they have served."

The archdiocese's statement did not say whether church officials had received any earlier allegations of abuse against Wattigny.

The disclosure by Wattigny involves abuse that allegedly occurred more than a decade after the church sexual abuse scandal broke open in the U.S. and prompted broad reforms aimed at protecting children.

Aymond has long argued that while the abuse that occurred within the New Orleans archdiocese was horrific, nearly all of it happened decades ago and that the policies put in place in the early 2000s have rooted out predator priests.

In a letter to parishioners in August 2018, shortly after a Pennsylvania grand jury report on widespread clerical molestation there reopened the scandal, Aymond noted that the church had "made great strides" in preventing abuse, adding "most of the cases we have heard about recently are 35-40 years ago."

Before the Wattigny disclosure, the most recent incident of alleged clergy abuse disclosed by the archdiocese occurred in the 1990s.

Wattigny becomes the 65th name on Aymond's roster of local clergymen who the church says have had credible accusations of child sexual abuse levied against them.

The list, which was first released in November 2018, has since seen eight additions, as revelations of decades-old incidents continue to be reported.

Wattigny was ordained a priest in 1994 and spent the first six years of his career working at St. Peter in Covington; Visitation of Our Lady in Marrero; and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Kenner.

He became the pastor at St. Benilde Parish in Metairie in 2000 and from then until June 2013 was the chaplain at Rummel.

Wattigny then became the pastor at St. Luke the Evangelist and remained in that post until Thursday, when he was removed from his position.

Bruce Weaver, a St. Luke's parishioner and head of the parish's multicultural committee, said Wattigny was well-liked and widely respected as a source of church teaching and history.

"He was a friend of everybody," Weaver said.

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Gene Bellisario, who has served as head of the ushers ministry at St. Luke's for 30 years, was one of several parishioners who said they were stunned by the news. He said it was another black eye for the church.

"I'm angry that something like that happened with a man I like and I respected," Bellisario said. "This is the last thing our church parish needed, or the Catholic church."

St. Luke is near Pope John Paul II High, and Wattigny maintained a regular presence there, serving on the schools advisory board.

At the start of the 2017-18 academic year, he was appointed the schools president. But at the end of that year, the archdioceses superintendent of schools, RaeNell Houston, sent out a letter to parents informing them that Wattignys position had been eliminated.

Houston said Wattignys role as a president focused on fundraising, alumni engagement and community building was a one-year trial run that the archdiocese did not find to be as effective as it had hoped.

He had remained as Pope John Pauls chaplain until sometime earlier this year.

The list to which Wattigny has been added was released in what Aymond called a bid to come clean amid the worldwide Catholic Churchs molestation scandal.

Archdiocesan officials say litigation associated with abuse allegations is one of the reasons they filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on May 1.

People with unreported claims of abuse that allegedly occurred before May 1 have until March 1, 2021, to file for compensation, according to a deadline set by the federal judge overseeing the bankruptcy case.

Also Thursday, Aymond disclosed that Clark, the pastor of Pearl River's Sts. Peter and Paul Church, was arrested on allegations of "obscenity with women."

St. Tammany Parish jail records showed the Pearl River Police Department had booked Clark, 37, earlier Thursday. His bail was set at $25,000, and he remained behind bars in the late afternoon, according to the records.

Pearl River Police Chief Jack Sessions declined to release any details about Clark's arrest, saying the case remained under investigation.

In Louisiana, obscenity cases against men typically involve the public exposure of the genitals or the buttocks in a sexual or "patently offensive" manner. The crime can carry between six months and three years in prison upon conviction.

Aymond said he planned to hold Mass at Sts. Peter and Paul at 5 p.m. Saturday and on Sunday morning at St. Luke for 9 and 11.

Staff writer Sara Pagones and WWL-TV's David Hammer contributed to this report.

Deacon V.M. Wheeler takes leave of absence from prominent law firm after child abuse allegations A Catholic deacon removed from ministry Monday by the Archdiocese of New Orleans over child abuse allegations is taking a leave of absence fro
World Heritage Areas and tourism facilities across the country will be upgraded under a $40 million funding package, and $20 million will be invested in coastal ecosystems under a federal government COVID economy recovery program.

Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said the funding would generate around 1000 jobs.

A jobs-boosting investment package announced by the federal government will upgrade tourism facilities in Work Heritage Areas including the Queensland Wet Tropics in the Daintree Rainforest.

"We are talking about projects that will create lasting legacies in regional centres, small towns and on the Great Barrier Reef, which will be a big boost to local communities," Mr McCormack said.

Around 550 jobs are expected to come from $33.5 million in upgrades to tourist facilities in 23 World Heritage Areas and national parks including the Gondwana Rainforests in NSW and Budj Bim Cultural Landscape in Victoria.
Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden will visit Grand Rapids Friday, according to his campaign.

Biden plans to discuss his Build Back Better economic plan, according to a release. The campaign has not released additional details about when or where the stop will be held.

The former vice president last visited Michigan on Sept. 9. He spoke before a small crowd of UAW workers, local elected officials and reporters in Warren and later met with steelworkers in Detroit.

Bidens Grand Rapids visit brings him to Kent County, an area President Donald Trump won in 2016. Trump collected 7,745 fewer votes than the previous Republican presidential candidate in 2012, and a majority of voters in Kent County supported Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer two years later.

Trump won Michigan by 10,704 votes in 2016, the smallest margin of victory in any state and the closest election result in Michigans history.

Republicans secured Kent County in nearly every presidential race during the last 50 years, but recent elections suggest the area is changing. Former President Barack Obama won Kent County in 2008 and Trump earned the fewest votes in the county of any Republican since Bob Dole in 1996.

Trump chose to end his campaign in Grand Rapids on the eve of 2016s election. He returned to Grand Rapids for his first Michigan campaign rally in 2019.

Fridays visit comes just three days after Biden and Trump participated in the first debate of the 2020 election cycle. Biden embarked on a train tour of Ohio and Pennsylvania after the debate.

Bidens wife Jill Biden stopped in Michigan horus before the debate Tuesday. She spoke to a crowd of around 100 people outside Traverse Citys Right Brain Brewery, then toured King Orchards farm in Antrim County.

Jill Biden also stopped in Grand Rapids earlier this month during a campaign visit to West Michigan. She toured Kids Food Basket on Sept. 15.

Democratic vice presidential candidate Kamala Harris also held campaign events in Michigan on Sept. 22. Harris stopped in Flint and Detroit.

The Biden campaigns events in Michigan have not been open to the public due to the coronavirus pandemic.

READ MORE ON MLIVE:

Jill Biden focuses on veterans issues, food insecurity in West Michigan campaign swing

Poll: Trump trails Biden in Midwest battlegrounds, but undecided voters could make the difference

Kamala Harris urges Black Michiganders to vote for Biden during events in Flint, Detroit
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Linkedin Fadli (The Jakarta Post) Batam, Riau Islands  Thu, October 1, 2020 14:27 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c486f23f 1 News Batam,Hotel,travel,Batam-Marriott-Hotel-Harbour-Bay Free

Batam's first five-star hotel, Batam Marriott Hotel Harbour Bay, officially opened on Thursday.

The launching ceremony of the 12-floor and 216-room property was attended by Batam acting mayor Syamsul Bahrum and the hotel's president commissioner, Hartono.

Syamsul said the administration welcomed the presence of the international-standard hotel amid the still alarming COVID-19 pandemic.

"We consider this [a sign of] still-high optimism among investors toward Batam," Syamsul added.

The new hotel expects to soon welcome guests from neighboring countries, such as Singapore and Malaysia.

"[Due to] its close proximity, Batam continues to be a business and holiday destination for international [visitors from] Singapore and Malaysia," said Batam Marriott Hotel Harbour Bay general manager Sean Raine.

The hotel currently operates only 100 of its 216 deluxe and suite rooms.

It boasts a 1,300-square-meter grand ballroom and 55- to 500-sqm meeting rooms to cater to meeting, incentive, convention and exhibition (MICE) activities.

Harbour Bay is an integrated area that is home to Harbour Bay International Ferry Port and a few hotels, shopping malls and restaurants.

In September, United States-based hotel chain Marriott International opened the Sheraton Belitung Resort in Bangka Belitung Islands province. The hotel is surrounded by more than 100 small islands on the eastern coast of Sumatra and features a lobby adorned in locally grown Lenggadai wood and Belitung granite. (kes)
Congress Member of Parliament (MP) Kapil Sibal, in an article in Hindustan Times on September 20, has made baseless allegations against the Narendra Modi government, when he called Parliament Aatmanirbhar (self-reliant), in that it did not need the Opposition voice.

The monsoon session of Parliament was to have 18 sittings spread over 18 days without any break. All necessary arrangements were made in keeping with Covid-19 safety protocols. After consultations with the leaders of various political parties, a schedule was finalised which included dispensing with Question Hour. Unstarred questions, Special Mentions and other business were allowed by the chairpersons of the Houses. The leaders of various parties wanted the session to be concluded early keeping in mind the Covid-19 risk.

The Opposition has repeatedly undermined the mandate given to Prime Minister (PM) Modi. They have been trying to block reform-related bills presented in Parliament. Important legislations such as the Triple Talaq Bill, Enemy Property Bill and Motor Vehicles Amendment Bill were delayed, thanks to the Opposition.

The Opposition has brought disrepute to the institution of Parliament by the conduct of their Rajya Sabha MPs on September 20 during the debate on the farm reforms bills.

After creating a ruckus in Parliament, these parties are trying to lay the blame at the doorstep of the government and the deputy chairman of the Rajya Sabha. The Opposition has no respect for the peoples mandate. It is trying to create false narratives.

Democracy does not envisage a consensus on all issues. Every MP is free to express their views without any influence or coercion on subjects which arise in Parliament. But no one has the right to violate the rights and privileges of other members in regard to freedom of speech.

During the debate on the farm bills, 109 members of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) were present while only 70 members of the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) were in the House as per the attendance register. Some Opposition members had sought a leave of absence. The conduct of parliamentary proceedings in the Rajya Sabha on September 20, under the supervision of the deputy chairman, was strictly as per the constitutional mandate and Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business. The farm bills were discussed for more than the time allocated by the Business Advisory Committee of the Rajya Sabha. The Opposition is trying to create the impression that sense of the House means consensus in the House, which is a clear misrepresentation of constitutional and parliamentary rules. All decisions are taken in Parliament based on the majority.

Allegations regarding the deputy chairman not allowing division on statutory resolutions and amendments sought by Opposition members, while these bills were being passed, are false. There are two basic conditions for seeking division in the House: The member seeking division should be in his seat, and the House should be in order so that the division may be conducted. Some members who demanded division were not in their seats, and this is a matter of record.

The Opposition created all sorts of problems in the House such as tearing the rule book and formula papers of the Chair, sloganeering, manhandling officials of the secretariat and marshals, and standing on the tables of Rajya Sabha officials. Their conduct was not only in violation of the privileges of Parliament for which Parliament can penalise them (eight members were suspended from the service of the House for the remaining session), but also in violation of the Indian Penal Code for which action can be taken as there is no immunity for criminal conduct even in Parliament.

Kapil Sibal also claimed that Question Hour, an essential element of parliamentary democracy, has been dispensed with and that way, executive accountability to Parliament has been eroded.

As per practice on a particular day, in ordinary circumstances, 20 starred and 230 unstarred questions are listed in the Lok Sabha while 15 starred and 160 unstarred questions are listed in the Rajya Sabha. During this session, only starred questions were dispensed with, keeping in view the special circumstances. On a daily basis, the government has replied to 230/160 questions in the respective Houses. A false impression is being created of abrogation of executive accountability to Parliament.

He has also criticised the passage of bills relating to ordinances without reference to the Standing Committees. This is baseless because such bills are usually not referred to committees since they are required to be replaced by Acts of Parliament within six weeks from reassembly of Parliament under Article 123 of the Constitution. It is not practically possible for Committees to examine and give reports on the bills in such a short time.

Sibal made scathing personal attacks attributing different negative aspects to the PM while not saying a single word about his own partys leader who was missing for the whole monsoon session. All this acrimony on the part of the Opposition in Parliament is symptomatic of a mindset that brooks no tolerance for the peoples mandate and majority in Parliament.

Pralhad Joshi is minister for coal, parliamentary affairs and mines

The views expressed are personal
New Delhi, Oct 1 : A Delhi court on Thursday extended till October 22 the judicial custody of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) research scholar Sharjeel Imam, arrested under the anti-terror law, in connection with the communal violence in the Northeast area of the national capital in February.

The Special Cell of Delhi Police had arrested Sharjeel on August 25 under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act in connection with the riots, a day after being brought to the capital city from a jail in Assam on a production warrant.

Sharjeel, a PhD student at the JNU's Centre for Historical Studies, was produced before the court through video conferencing from jail number one of the Tihar complex at the end of a month-long judicial custody.

"Never have I understood why I am in the case," Sharjeel's counsel Surbhi Dhar said on the behalf of her client. She also opposed the extension of judicial remand and protested why the remand copy has not been supplied to them.

The case pertains to a 'conspiracy' to incite the riots, which had left 53 people dead and 748 injured. Even though the police have filed a voluminous charge sheet in the matter, his name is not mentioned in it and will be added in the supplementary charge sheet.

Sharjeel's name, however, cropped up in the disclosure statements and statements of the witnesses in the charge sheet, involving 15 accused, including Tahir Hussain, Safoora Zargar, Ishrat Jahan and others.

Imam had come into the limelight for his alleged inflammatory speech in Delhi's Jamia Millia against the Citizenship Amendment Act and the National Register of Citizens on December 13 and subsequently on January 16 at the Aligarh Muslim University, where he allegedly threatened to "cut off" Assam and the rest of the northeast from the country.

On July 25, the police had filed a charge sheet against Imam in connection with a case related to his alleged inflammatory speeches during the protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) at several places.

The 600-page charge sheet was filed, under section 124A (Sedition), 153(A) (Promoting enmity), 153 (Assertion prejudicial to national integration) (promoting enmity, Hatred between different communities, 505 (spreading rumours) IPC and Section 13 of Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, in Delhi's Patiala House court.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Conservationists in the United States are warning the race to a coronavirus vaccine may see the slaughter of half a million sharks, causing irreversible damage to our oceans ecosystems.

This is because squalene, a natural oil made in the liver of sharks, is an ingredient in several of the candidate vaccines in clinical trials.

According to the World Health Organisation, squalene is used as an adjuvant, meaning it increases the effectiveness of a vaccine by creating a stronger immune response.

While more than 200 potential vaccines around the world are in development, fewer than 10 have advanced to late-stage clinical trials.

The British pharma giant GlaxoSmithKline, which already uses shark squalene in flu vaccines, has said it would manufacture a billion doses of the adjuvant for potential use in vaccines to fight Covid-19.

Push for plant squalene

However Shark Allies, a California-based advocacy group, has launched a petition against the use of squalene from sharks for making coronavirus vaccine, calling on the industry to further explore the use of sustainable, non-animal squalene alternatives.

Some 3,000 sharks are needed to extract one tonne of squalene and, in the event a vaccine is produced globally and everyone on the planet receives two doses, Shark Allies says more than half a million sharks would need to be killed.

Harvesting something from a wild animal is never going to be sustainable, especially if its a top predator that doesnt reproduce in huge numbers, the groups founder, Stefanie Brendl, told The Telegraph, in London.

Theres so many unknowns of how big and how long this pandemic might go on, and then how many versions of it we have to go through, that if we continue using sharks, the numbers of sharks taken for this product could be really high, year after year after year.
The organization that operates the Worcester RV and Camping Show, Home Show and Boat Show announced on Thursday that it has postponed all events until 2022 due to uncertainties surrounding the coronavirus pandemic.

Expo Management Group made the announcement as Massachusetts remains in Phase 3, which does not allow outdoor or indoor gatherings beyond 250 people. Worcester remains a high-risk community and has yet to receive the green light to enter the second step of Phase 3.

Each of the events - RV and Camping Show, Home Show and Boat Show - annually generates attendance at the DCU Center that easily eclipses 250 people.

The state wont enter Phase 4, which allows for public events, until a vaccine. In announcing the postponed events, Expo Management Group cited the predictions from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that said a vaccine may not be available until the third quarter of 2021.

In the almost 75 years that weve been producing shows, weve always strived to produce the best events to justify the money our exhibitors spend with us, Managing Partner of Expo Management Group Jeffery Davis said in a statement. Consumer shows rely on face-to-face marketing where people can see, touch, and experience the product or service an exhibitor is promoting. Given the current situation, it is impossible to do this.

The Worcester Boat Show was one of the final large-capacity events to take place prior to Gov. Charlie Bakers stay-at-home advisory. Despite Baker capping attendance at 250 in March, DCU Center staff monitored the number of people that entered the facility for the event.

As a result of the pandemic, Expo Management Group said it laid off its entire staff in March. Without a staff it wasnt able to organize a plan for 2021. Normally, each show take about a year to plan, Davis said.

With social distancing and additional safety protocols, we simply cannot in good conscience ask our valued exhibitors to pay for space without knowing whether or not the show will actually happen," Davis said in a statement. "We just hope that everyone stays safe as we try to adapt to a new normal.

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Denise Young, previously SVP of HR at Apple: The School for Radical Futures is an exciting opportunity for developing the kind of leaders we need moving forward. Deep listening, essential questioning, and the empathy required for a better tomorrow. I am thrilled to be a part of it."

A radical professional membership program launching through Kickstarter today aims to sidestep conventional postgraduate learning by empowering and connecting the people, communities, and businesses best placed to help redesign the social systems that shape our lives.

The School for Radical Futures (SRF) radicalfutures.school, a new learning and networking platform from Epic Decade, a design // business // cultural innovation studio based in Jamestown, Rhode Island, will seek to leverage the power of its community to empower new leaders as they work together to bring social impact models to life - building upon the studios proven track record of leading major change in international organizations.

Anchored by a part-time, 90% remote, graduate-level professional experience, SRF will offer an open enrollment network for 1,000 individuals to follow a new kind of gap year, underpinned by a four-part curriculum: 1) Asking Essential Questions through an Ideas Salon, 2) Understanding Complex Change through a Field Trip, 3) Proposing New Models through Audacity Labs, and 4) Catalyzing Cultural Impact through the Story Studio.

The interdisciplinary experience, running from April 9, 2021 to April 9th, 2022, will enable graduates to imagine and construct radical futures by fusing the fields of design thinking, systems strategy, cultural activism, philosophy, business model development, and storytelling communications. The teaching philosophy of SRF is guided by Radical Curiosity, a method for questioning commonly held beliefs to imagine better futures.

SRF emerges from Epic Decades celebrated Ideas Salons, a forum that has convened more than 3,000 leaders from companies ranging from Apple Stores, GE, and American Express, to the Oprah Winfrey Network to Disney Imagineering, as well as educators from Harvard and Yale Universities, the Nobel Prize-winning Doctors Without Borders, a US Senator, and numerous NY Times best-selling authors.

As a research and development social innovation lab, SRF will act as a launchpad for social entrepreneurs and activists to take on some of the most complex issues of our time, organized within six thematic Audacity Labs: Public Health, Alternative Economies, Holistic Ecosystems, Regenerative Trust, Future of Travel, and the Rural Identity.

This bold initiative, the brainchild of Epic Decade founder, Seth Goldenberg, comes at a time when the value proposition and purpose of higher education is under intense scrutiny. While MBA programs can exceed $100,000 and with often questionable relevance to a rapidly changing world, The School for Radical Futures year-long program will cost less than $8,000 as a means to establish an accessible and disruptive curriculum suitable for this transformational era.

The Network

Thought leaders who have presented at past Epic Decade forums have included:

Bruce Mau, The Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum Lifetime Awardee

Andrew Yang, 2020 Presidential Candidate and universal basic income champion

Denise Young, Former SVP of Human Resources and Diversity at Apple

Alejandro (Alex) Jadad, Member of the Council of the Wise for the President of Colombia

Lera Boroditsky, Cognitive scientist with nearly 6M views of her TED Talk

Dawn Danby, Fast Company 100 Most Creative People in Business and sustainability designer from Autodesk

Morgan Rimel, Former CEO of the emotional intelligence network School of Life

Trung Le, Vietnamese architect of schools

Seth Goldenberg, Founder + CEO said: The School for Radical Futures is a natural evolution for Epic Decade, where we spent over ten years leading the transformation of international organizations and their leaders. With the COVID-19 pandemic bringing about fundamental challenges to the higher education landscape, we are inspired about the potential of this unique interdisciplinary experience to bring together 1,000 brilliant minds and imagine radical solutions to the 21st centurys biggest challenges.

About Epic Decade and its Founder

Epic Decade and The School for Radical Futures was founded by Seth Goldenberg, a social entrepreneur who uses design to catalyze cultural change. His work has traversed the sectors of retail, finance, energy, health, and education and he has served as interim CO-CEO of Now What the research and insights group, interim CMO of the State of Rhode Island for the Governor of Rhode Island, and Chief Design Officer for the biotech chronic disease company Intarcia, as well as the VP of Bruce Mau Design and Executive Director of Massive Change. Goldenberg launched Epic Decade after creating and curating Dialog:City an arts and civic media festival at the 2008 President Obama Democratic National Convention with 12 neighborhood sites featuring MacArthur Genius Fellow Ann Hamilton, MIT Media Lab artist Krzysztof Wodiczko, artificial intelligence media artist Lynn Hershman Leeson, South Korean architect Minsuk Cho, and musical technologist DJ Spooky. Goldenberg was in Denver serving as the Deputy Director of the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver playing a senior leadership role in launching the $32M capital campaign for the David Adjaye LEED certified museum.

To see the Kickstarter campaign click here
One thing about it, they did not touch me, she said, adding that she had to close her doors for weeks during the COVID-19 pandemic. They tore up all around me but didnt hit me. The currency exchange was set on fire, and the mom and pop (store) across the street had its windows broken and everything stolen.
L iverpool and three major northern towns were ordered into social lockdown today.

More than a million people will be banned by law from mixing indoors with different households from this weekend, Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced in the Commons.

The new measures affect Liverpool  with a population of 550,000 and another 900,000 in the wider Merseyside region  Middlesbrough, Hartlepool and Warrington.

Mr Hancock said the rules would be the same as those announced earlier in the week for the north east of England .

He told the Commons: "We recommend against all social-mixing between people in different households. We will bring in regulations, as we have in the north east, to prevent in law social mixing between people in different households in all settings except outdoor public spaces like parks and outdoor hospitality."

Liverpool mayor Steve Rotheram admitted: We do know and understand the Government has to do something  all of our figures are going badly in the wrong direction.

Shoppers walk through Liverpool city centre / AFP via Getty Images

Meanwhile, Professor Kevin Fenton, Londons regional director of Public Health England, said there was still time to flatten the curve in the capital and appealed to every Londoner to make a difference.

Cases of coronavirus in London have been steadily increasing in recent weeks and we are now at a tipping point in our efforts to limit the spread of the virus in the city, he warned.

Londoners still hold the key to reducing infection rates and lessening the impact of any second wave by making a continued conscious effort to consider our movements and behaviour.

London researchers today raised hopes that the pandemic is growing less rapidly. The Imperial College React study estimated that the R reproduction rate across England had fallen from 1.7 last month to 1.06, according to random swab tests taken in the nine days to Saturday.

Jeremy Hunt, chairman of the Commons health select committee, told BBC Radio 4s Today programme the research should give us all some cause for hope .

Environment Secretary George Eustice said the findings were encouraging but warned there was no room for complacency. The study said London remained in fourth place nationally in terms of the prevalence of the virus, with an estimated one in 200 Londoners testing positive.

Researchers found 37 positive cases out of 7,498 Londoners randomly tested  a rate of 0.49 per cent. This was a five-fold increase on the 0.10 per rate found in the capital in the previous round of the study.

Announcing the news for new restrictions in England, Mr Hancock said there was evidence that the Governments restrictive measures were beginning to work and that the more people follow the rules, the quicker Liverpool and the north east can get back on their feet.

Coronavirus: Pubs and Restaurants 10pm Curfew 1 /38 Coronavirus: Pubs and Restaurants 10pm Curfew Old Compton in Soho on 11pm on 24 September 2020 Soho on 11pm on 24 September 2020 Jeremy Selwyn Sohoon the first night of the 10pm curfew at 9:15pm on 24 September 2020 Jeremy Selwyn Sohoon the first night of the 10pm curfew at 11pm on 24 September 2020 Jeremy Selwyn Soho, London after 10pm on 25 September 202OLate-night drinkers after 10pm in Soho, London on 22 September 2020 PA Soho, London after 10pm on 25 September 2020 PA Late-night drinkers after 10pm in Soho, London on 22 September 2020 PA Soho, London after 10pm on 25 September 202O PA Late-night drinkers after 10pm in Soho, London on 22 September 2020 PA Late-night drinkers after 10pm in Soho, London on 22 September 2020 PA Late-night drinkers after 10pm in Soho, London on 22 September 2020 PA Soho, London after 10pm on 25 September 2020 PA Late-night drinkers after 10pm in Soho, London on 22 September 2020 PA Soho, London after 10pm on 25 September 2020 PA Late-night drinkers after 10pm in Soho, London on 22 September 2020 PA Soho, London after 10pm on 25 September 2020 PA Late-night drinkers after 10pm in Soho, London on 22 September 2020 PA Soho, London after 10pm on 25 September 2020 PA Late-night drinkers after 10pm in Soho, London on 22 September 2020 PA Soho, London after 10pm on 25 September 2020 PA Soho at 9:15pm on the first night of the 10pm curfew on 4 September 2020 Jeremy Selwyn Old Compton in Soho on the first night of the 24 September 2020 Jeremy Selwyn Old Compton in Soho on the first night of the 24 September 2020 Jeremy Selwyn Old Compton in Soho on the first night of the 10pm curfew on 24 September 2020 Jeremy Selwyn Old Compton in Soho on the first night of the 10pm curfew on 24 September 2020 Jeremy Selwyn Soho at 9:15pm on 24 September 2020 Jeremy Selwyn Soho at 9:15pm on the first night of the 10pm curfew on 4 September 2020 Jeremy Selwyn Soho on the first night of the 10pm curfew at 9:15pm on 24 September 2020 Jeremy Selwyn Soho on the first night of the 10pm curfew at 9:15pm on 24 September 2020 Jeremy Selwyn

I understand how much of an imposition this is. I want rules like this to stay in place for as short a time as possible, Im sure we all do," he said.

The study published today shows us hope that together we can crack this and the more people follow the rules and reduce their social contact, the quicker we can get Liverpool and the North East back on their feet.

It came as the chief executive of one of Londons biggest NHS hospital trusts revealed concerns that patients being admitted with Covid were sicker than before  and urged Londoners to respect the rules to curb the virus.

Professor Tim Orchard, who heads Imperial College Healthcare NHS trust, which runs five hospitals including St Marys and Charing Cross, said: It does feel as though London at the moment is sitting poised.

If we can pull back around  the level of community transmission, we may well avoid very significant hospital admissions. If we cant, we are going to see an increase. For this week, we have seen a significant increase in patients  not large numbers, but a number of people who are really quite sick. Yesterday there were 12 patients at Imperial with Covid, including two on ventilators in intensive care.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan wants the Government to review the 10pm curfew / POOL/AFP via Getty Images

Barts Health, the capitals biggest trust, had 52 inpatients with Covid, 11 of which were in intensive care.

Hospital sources said patients were now being admitted because of Covid  unlike the first wave, where the virus was often discovered by chance after admission for another illness.

It warned of extensive clustering  in and around London and in the North West and Midlands. Black and Asian people were twice as likely as white people to have Covid.

The Imperial study , regarded as among the best at measuring the scale of the pandemic because it includes people without symptoms, estimates that case numbers in London are doubling every 9.7 days. London is behind the North West (0.86 per cent), North East (0.78 per cent) and Yorkshire and the Humber (0.54 per cent) in terms of the prevalence of Covid. Nationally, the study estimated that 411,000 people in England have the virus at present. The R number in London was estimated at 1.52, the third highest nationally.

The report concluded: Although there is evidence of a recent deceleration in the epidemic, current levels of prevalence will inevitably result in additional hospitalisations and mortality in coming weeks.

A redoubling of public health efforts is needed to return to a declining phase of the epidemic. Professor Paul Elliott, who leads the React studies, said: While our latest findings show some early evidence that the growth of new cases may have slowed, suggesting efforts to control the infection are working, the prevalence of infection is the highest that we have recorded to date.

This reinforces the need for protective measures to limit the spread of the disease and the publics adherence to these, which will be vital to minimise further significant illness and loss of life from Covid-19.

Mayor Sadiq Khan today called for the Government to review the unintended consequences of the 10pm closure of pubs and restaurants, citing increased social mixing.
The World Committee of the Pan-Armenian Games has issued the following statement:

The World Committee of the Pan-Armenian Games is following the large-scale hostilities launched on the front of Artsakh as a result of the Azerbaijai-Turkish aggression with deep concern.

The Pan-Armenian Games that were launched during a grand solemn event held in the capital Stepanakert in 2019 were aimed at strengthening regional peace and reaffirming the resoluteness of all Armenians of the world to see Artsakh as the starting point for the unity of Armenians and peace-loving diplomacy.

However, today, Turkey is interfering in the internal stability of our region, trying to implement its plans for emptying of Armenians and expanding the Turkish empire once again after 100 years. Armenia is resolute and united as one, and the Diaspora must also stand united and speak out about the danger of Turkish aggression. Erdogans Turkey must be dealt a serious diplomatic blow from all sides, and the international community needs to respond soon.

Representing different countries, our objective is to explain the situation to our societies and governments and demand active steps to stop Turkish aggression. We Armenians have no right to keep silent.

With all of its resources, the World Committee of the Pan-Armenian Games is ready to support the homeland in this war unleashed by the Turkish-Azerbaijani alliance. We ask to use all of our contacts and resources for the common cause.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-02 05:40:40|Editor: huaxia

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ALGIERS, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Algeria on Thursday reported 160 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the tally of the infections to 51,690, the Ministry of Health said.

The ministry also announced seven new fatalities from coronavirus, raising the death toll in the North African country to 1,741.

Meanwhile, 108 more patients were discharged from hospitals, bringing the total number of recoveries to 36,282.

Earlier in the day, Algerian Health Minister Abderrahmane Benbouzid hailed the efforts made by medical staff to contain the virus, the official APS news agency reported.

He stressed that "Algeria has won the battle against COVID-19, but vigilance is still required to avoid falling into a second wave."

China and Algeria have offered mutual help in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

In early February, Algeria sent medical donations to help China combat the coronavirus. China sent two batches of medical aid to Algeria on March 27 and April 15, respectively.

A Chinese medical team arrived in Algeria on May 14 for a 15-day mission to help fight the coronavirus by sharing China's experience in curbing the spread of the contagious disease. Enditem
by Vladimir Rozanskij

He researched the summary executions of prisoners at the camp Solovetsky Islands, set up under Lenin and operated under Stalin. His research was not appreciated by the authorities, including Russias secret services. Pieces of evidence were manipulated or withheld in order to charge him. The sentence is seen as "the total victory of evil". Supporters call him a "political prisoner".

Moscow (AsiaNews)  Yury Dmitriev, a Russian historian and famous researcher into Stalins crimes, was sentenced to 13 years in a penal colony on charges of child abuse.

The Supreme Court of Karelia (Russian Finland) issued the verdict on Tuesday, overturning a ruling by the Petrozavodsk City Court, which had sentenced him to three years and six months in prison.

For the Russian press, the decision is "the total victory of evil", given the clearly political nature of the sentence. In just three days, the regional court overturned the city court, claiming to have reviewed all aspects of the case and found overwhelming evidence of Dmitriev's guilt.

However, no one has had a chance to review the evidence. The courts decision has caused great consternation. The previous sentence already seemed absolutely unfounded, and people were expecting to see the historian released and full rehabilitated.

Yury Dmitriev, 64, is known for his research on the mass graves of Sandarmokh, a forest massif in northern Karelia where prisoners from the Solovki prison camp on Solovetsky Islands were executed place at the end of 1937.

Clergymen from various religious communities lost their lives in this camp, which was first set up under Lenin and continued to operate under Stalin. One of the victims was the famous theologian Pavel Florensky.

Dmitrievs research displeased the authorities, including Russias the secret services, which tried to stop any investigation by any means in the past few years.

Emilia Slabunova, a Member of the Legislative Assembly of the Republic of Karelia, calls the verdict a death sentence for the person and for historical truth", a "new execution" in the very heart of the country's memory.

The court satisfied the desire for revenge of the services against Dmitrievs excessive activism. Over the recent past, he never stopped his quest for the truth, even when they tried to block the recognition of Sandarmokh's remains by invoking state secret and claiming that the remains belonged to Soviet soldiers who died in war rather than concentration camp prisoners killed at the site.

On the day of the sentence, a colleague and supporter of Dmitriev, Anatoly Razumov, was also arrested at the Supreme Court building, as he gave interviews to journalists displaying a sign that read: We shall not allow a repeat of Sandarmokh.

Yury Dmitriev, known as the "guardian of history", heads the Karelia section of the Memorial Society, which records and documents of Stalins Great Terror. In Sandarmokh he set up a monumental slab to the memory of the victims of the Solovki prison camp near the mass graves, putting the names of the victims on the trees of the forest, since it is nearly impossible to identified the remains found in the many burial pits.

Dmitriev has also published several documents and memoirs, with the names and biographies of thousands of victims.

He was arrested in December 2016, on various charges, including sexual abuse of his foster daughter and allegedly taking pornographic images of her (found on his computer).

In 2018, the Petrozavodsk City Court acquitted the historian of all charges, also thanks to the action of many Russian intellectuals, such as writer Ljudmila Ulitskaya, as well as many ordinary Russians.

However, the regional court challenged the verdict and ordered a new trial, which ended in a sentenced of three and a half years by the city court, which was overturned last week by the regions supreme court.

For Dmitriev's colleagues and supporters, Dmitriev is a "political prisoner".
Israel is sending weapons to Azerbaijan amid the most intense fighting between Baku and Armenia in years, according to officials and intelligence sources, Al Arabiya English reported.

Both sides have accused one another of using foreign fighters and mercenaries. Turkey, which has publicly spoken out in support of Azerbaijan and called Armenia the biggest threat to peace in the region, has reportedly sent fighters from Syria to Baku.

Russia, which has a military base in Armenia, has been accused of sending fighters to help prop up Armenian forces. Turkey and Russia have denied interfering.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron called for an immediate ceasefire during a phone call Wednesday evening.

But as the fighting rages on, more countries are becoming involvedfor various political and strategic interests.

Israel has been one of the main providers of arms to Azerbaijan despite Armenia officially opening an embassy in Tel Aviv just this month.

Israel and Azerbaijan have a large amount of trade between oil and weapons.

Over the weekend, a US intelligence source told Al Arabiya English that Israel was sending planes full of weapons to Azerbaijan.

Israel supplies weapons to [Azerbaijan]; two cargo flights from Israel have already landed in Baku today, the source said.

Those Turkish drones are unstoppable, the source added.

Meanwhile, the foreign policy adviser to the president of Azerbaijan, Hikmet Hajiyev, told Axios that Bakus defense cooperation with Israel was no secret.

Hajiyev also reportedly said that Azerbaijan was using Israeli kamikaze drones in the Nagorno-Karabakh [(Artsakh)] fighting.

As for the Turkish drones, the Azeri official said: If Armenia is scared of the drones that Azerbaijan is using, it should stop its occupation.

The French president also condemned recent comments from Turkey as reckless and dangerous.
ORANGE CITY, Iowa -- A Spirit Lake, Iowa, man charged with fatally shooting another man plans to argue he acted in self-defense at trial.

Defense attorney Brendan Kelly on Wednesday filed the notice of defense. The two-page document gave no new details of the events that led up to the May 9 incident in which Gregg Winterfeld is accused of shooting Grant Wilson.

Winterfeld, 70, is scheduled to stand trial for first-degree murder Nov. 17 in Sioux County District Court.

He's accused of shooting Wilson, 58, of Cleghorn, Iowa, at a rural Ireton, Iowa, house. Deputies who responded to an emergency call found Wilson dead inside the house. A woman inside the house at the time of the shooting was not harmed.

According to court documents, Winterfeld and Wilson were arguing when Winterfeld pulled a Ruger .22-caliber revolver on Wilson and shot him in the forehead.

The three in the house had been drinking beer and Black Velvet whisky throughout the day prior to the shooting, court documents said.

A judge last month denied a defense motion to suppress statements Winterfeld made to investigators that night. District Judge Patrick Tott ruled that though Winterfeld was intoxicated, he continued to voluntarily cooperate with sheriff's deputies after he was informed of his rights against self-incrimination.

If convicted of first-degree murder, Winterfeld would face a mandatory sentence of life in prison without parole.

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MELBOURNE, Fla., Oct. 01, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- With the explosive growth of MCI and its subsidiary brands, MCI has expanded to the Space Coasts talent-rich market in Melbourne, FL. MCI moved into a 35,000 square foot facility with an eventual capacity for 500 agents working concurrently with management. Due to COVID regulations and CDC guidance, MCI keeps the overall on-site agent team to around 200.



With MCI's contact center business growing at a record pace, CEO Anthony Marlowe had narrowed down a broad list of expansionary targets to a few cities in Florida for the latest footprint expansion. "With Florida being a great talent pool for us already in Jacksonville and a very pro-business environment, we felt the state was ripe for another MCI contact center. Pair that with low- to no state income taxes and readily available bilingual speakers in the talent pool locally, and the ingredients for success were at hand," said Marlowe.

MCI has plans for diverse programs to populate the Melbourne center, from high-end retailers to telecoms and public sector work. The company's continued diversification of the client base has been the fuel for many organizations' careers. Bill Haack, a Palm Bay/Melbourne-local BPO veteran, has been put in charge of the facility, as MCI's Senior Vice President of Operations. "We are excited to be a part of the thriving v-shaped rebound in Florida, providing vital jobs, career path opportunities, and more. Melbourne and the surrounding areas are cities that match our business model of offering customer service and other professional front and back-office jobs at a competitive rate with outstanding quality. Melbourne is a community filled with hard-working and talented people who have the skillset we are looking for," said Haack.

MCI has hired support and executive staff in Melbourne to aid in the growth of the center. The Melbourne facility is located at 511 North John Rodes Blvd. "The facility being within ~30 minutes from Orlando International Airport and ~10 minutes from the Melbourne International Airport provides easy access for the MCI executive team and clients alike to visit the teams in production and for training," said Haack.

About MCI

In 2019 Marlowe Companies Inc. (MCI) was named by Inc. Magazine as Iowa's Fastest Growing Company in the State of Iowa and was named the 452nd Fastest Growing Privately Company in the USA, making the coveted top 500 for the first time. MCI's subsidiaries had previously made Inc. Magazine's List of Fastest-Growing Companies 17 times, respectively.



MCI is headquartered in Iowa City, IA, and has thirteen customer contact management centers, IT services, and business process outsourcing service delivery facilities in Iowa, Georgia, Florida, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Nova Scotia, South Dakota, and Texas.



Driving modernization through digitalization, MCI ensures clients do more for less. MCI is the holding company for a diverse lineup of tech-enabled business services operating companies. MCI organically grows, acquires and operates companies that have a synergistic products and services portfolios, including but not limited to Automated Contact Center Solutions (ACCS), customer contact management, IT Services (IT Schedule 70), and Temporary and Administrative Professional Staffing (TAPS Schedule 736), Business Process Management (BPM), Business Process Outsourcing (BPO), Claims Processing, Collections, Customer Experience Provider (CXP), Customer Service, Digital Experience Provider (DXP), Account Receivables Management (ARM), Application Software Development, Managed Services, and Technology Services, to mid-market, Federal & enterprise partners.

MCI now employs almost 4,000 talented individuals with 100+ diverse North American client partners across the following MCI brands: GravisApps, Mass Markets, MCI Federal Services (MFS), The Sydney Call Center, OnBrand24, and Valor Intelligent Processing (VIP).

MCI provides products and services under the following NAICS Codes: 511210 Software Publishers, 518210 Data Processing, Hosting, and Related Services, 519190 All Other Information Services, 524291 Claims Adjusting, 524292 Third Party Administration of Insurance and Pension Funds, 541511 Custom Computer Programming Services, 541512 Computer Systems Design Services, 541519 Other Computer Related Services, 541519 Information Technology and Value Added Resellers, 541611 Administrative Management and General Management Consulting Services, 541613 Marketing Consulting Services, 541690 Other Scientific and Technical Consulting Services, 541990 All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services, 561110 Office Administrative Services, 561320 Temporary Help Services, 561330 Professional Employer Organizations, 561421 Telephone Answering Services, 561422 Telemarketing Bureaus and Other Contact Centers, 561431 Private Mail Centers, 561440 Collection Agencies, 561499 All Other Business Support Services, 561990 All Other Support Services, 611430 Professional and Management Development Training.

For more information on our services, please contact us at: https://www.mci.world/contact

To Contact MCI PR Dept.

Info@MCI.WORLD




By PTI

LONDON: British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's father, Stanley Johnson, has been pictured shopping without a face mask, now a legal requirement as part of measures to control the spread of coronavirus in the UK.

The 80-year-old author and former Conservative Party member of the European Parliament apologised, claiming he may not be fully updated on the new rules, under which the lack of face coverings in enclosed spaces can incur fines of 200 pounds for first-time offenders, rising steeply for repeat offences.

"I'm extremely sorry for the slip up and I would urge absolutely everybody to do everything they can to make sure they do follow the rules about masks and social distancing," Stanley Johnson was quoted as saying by the 'Daily Mirror' newspaper, which first published the picture of him shopping in a local newsagent store.

"The fact this was my first day back in the UK after three weeks abroad is, I am sure, no excuse for not knowing the rules," he said.

Stanley Johnson was referring to his stay at his home in Greece, a journey which had also attracted some criticism back in July when the official lockdown-related travel guidance called for a ban on all but essential travel.

However, he had claimed his travel requirement was essential.

His shopping trip back in west London without a face covering came on Tuesday, a day before his son, the Prime Minister, addressed a sombre briefing from Downing Street to warn that the UK was at a "critical point" as the number of daily coronavirus infections was showing a sharp rise.

"Bear in mind that the fines are now very considerable and they will be imposed," he had said, in reference to the legal requirement for face coverings which came in force last month.

Meanwhile, former Labour Party Leader Jeremy Corbyn has also been similarly caught breaking the coronavirus rules on large gatherings and forced to apologise for the mistake.

He was pictured by 'The Sun' newspaper with his wife, Laura Alvarez, at a dinner party for nine people, breaching the so-called "rule of six", which restricts gatherings to only six people indoors or outdoors.

The first-time penalty for the breach is also set at 200 pounds.

"I recently had dinner at a friend's house where the number of guests eventually exceeded five. understand that remaining at the dinner was a breach of the rule of six. I apologise for my mistake," the north London MP told the newspaper.

It remains to be seen if Johnson and Corbyn will be issued with penalty notices and made to pay the fine.
COLUMBUS, Ohio - An Ohio death row inmate who is Black is seeking a new trial based on allegations that some white jurors used racial slurs in describing him during their deliberations over his fate, according to arguments before a state appeals court.

Defendant Gregory McKnight was sentenced to death nearly 20 years ago for the 2000 kidnapping and fatal shooting of Emily Murray, a 20-year-old white student at Kenyon College in central Ohio. McKnight also received a life sentence after being convicted in 2002 of murder for the killing around the same time of a 20-year-old Black man, Gregory Julious.

Allegations of racial slurs during deliberations over McKnights guilt and whether he should be executed are contained in accounts provided to an investigator for McKnights attorneys who in 2017 began tracking down jurors from the trial. Jurors considered McKnights guilt for both Julious and Murrays deaths, with at least one slur used in referring to McKnight killing a white girl, according to his attorneys filings.

The deliberations were replete with racist statements and discussions of the rawest and most shocking nature during both the guilt and penalty phases of the trial, McKnights lawyers argued in a document filed with the Fourth District Court of Appeals.

Authorities say McKnight kidnapped Murray from the campus area and then shot her in the head near his rural home and rolled her body in a carpet. McKnight was also accused of fatally shooting Julious, whose skeletal remains were found on the property during a search.

The court filing said multiple people on the jury used a racial slur when referring to McKnight, according to one of the jurors interviewed by the investigator.

McKnights attorneys say a 2017 ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court allows them to bring such arguments up now. In that decision, Pena-Rodriguez v. Colorado, the court said lower courts can examine jury deliberations when there are indications that racial bias deprived a defendant of his right to a fair trial.

The Ohio Attorney Generals Office, opposes McKnights request for a new trial. It says the U.S. Supreme Court ruling doesnt cover cases like McKnights that have already been decided.

A federal judge agreed and rejected a similar appeal over the alleged racial comments in 2018.

The state also notes the Fourth District appeals court previously rejected McKnights allegations of racism in his trial. The new affidavits contain hearsay and opinion and shouldnt be admitted as evidence, the state said.

The evidence consists of nothing more than single and double hearsay about what somebody said about what somebody said, Stephen Maher, an assistant Ohio attorney general, wrote in a court filing last year.

The district appeals court scheduled oral arguments for Thursday morning. A decision isnt expected for weeks.

McKnight doesnt have an execution date. The death penalty is on long-term hold in Ohio while the state tries to find a supply of drugs to carry out lethal injection. The states last execution was on July 18, 2018, when Ohio put to death Robert Van Hook for killing David Self in Cincinnati in 1985.

On Sept. 24, Christopher Vialva was executed in Terre Haute, Indiana, for killing a religious couple visiting Texas from Iowa in 1999. He was the first Black inmate put to death as part of the Trump administrations resumption of federal executions after a nearly 20-year pause. Vialvas was the seventh federal execution since July and the second in a week.
Public and private schools in Kwara State are to resume academic activities on Monday, October 5, 2020.

A statement by the state Commissioner for Communications, Afolabi Oshatimehin, announced in Ilorin, on Wednesday.

Tertiary institutions are however, expected to resume on October 12, 2020.

The Commissioner said With various trainings held for teachers, on how to protect themselves and students, from COVID-19 infection, improved manpower in monitoring and case tracings, and appreciable guarantee of some protection for the children, the government hereby directs the reopening of elementary schools from October 5, 2020.

Similarly, state owned tertiary institutions are to reopen from October 12, 2020, or as may be determined by their respective governance structures, the statement added.

According to the commissioner, COVID-19 is still with us. The government therefore, urges school authorities to ensure that all safety protocols are adhered to, including physical distancing, use of face masks, and constant washing of hands with soap and water, in order to flatten the curve of transmission of the virus.

The government, similarly, wishes our students and teachers a safe stay in school, while promising to continue to do its best to keep the citizens safe at all times.

The government warned that Schools with scanty regards for safety protocols risk being shut.

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He succeeds Nalinikanth (Nal) Gollagunta who will be taking up a new role as the Global Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the GE Healthcare Digital organization post transition.

Wipro GE Healthcare has announced the appointment of Dr Shravan Subramanyam as President & CEO, GE Healthcare India & South Asia and Managing Director, Wipro GE Healthcare, effective 1 October, 2020.

Shravan joins Wipro from Roche Diagnostics where he was their Managing Director, India and Neighbouring Markets, responsible for commercial operations, market access, customer experience and digital transformation efforts. He succeeds Nalinikanth (Nal) Gollagunta who will be taking up a new role as the Global Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the GE Healthcare Digital organization post transition.

Wipro and GE Healthcare enjoy one of the most successful and enduring partnership lasting over 30 years and has made a positive impact on Indias healthcare ecosystem. I am confident Shravan will further strengthen this relationship and give an added impetus to our mission of building a healthy India and a healthier world, said Azim Premji, Chairman, Wipro GE Healthcare.

Shravan will be responsible for building on Wipro GEs expansion plans, delivering on commercial outcomes, strategic growth objectives, and driving partnerships in the region. He will continue to advance the companys agenda of innovating disruptive technology and business solutions to enhance access to high-quality, affordable healthcare solutions.

"I am delighted to join Wipro GE Healthcare at an exciting time when attention to healthcare globally is probably at its highest ever. I look forward to leveraging my experience and our pioneering efforts in manufacturing, innovation and business solutions to help transform the healthcare space in India. The potential that lies ahead for Wipro GE Healthcare in India is enormous, and the opportunity to contribute to this next chapter is deeply humbling and incredibly exhilarating," said Shravan.

Shravan has over 15 years of senior management and leadership experience in global and regional leadership roles at Roche, Novartis, Dade Behring and Ehrlich Laboratories. An active voice in various Industry forums, Shravan holds a MBBS degree from Madras Medical College and a Masters in Health Administration from Cornell University, US.
VANCOUVER, BC, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ - Foundation Automotive Corp., is proud to announce the purchase of the dealership assets of Destination Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram North Shore, adding a new dealership to their presence in British Columbia. Effective October 1, the dealership will operate under the name Foundation North Vancouver Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. In this venture, Foundation Automotive will become a part of the North Vancouver automotive market, one of the most dynamic markets in North America.

"High praise to the Destination team for their participation and thank you to everyone at the Foundation team for their relentless support in adding another FCA franchise to the Vancouver area," says Adam Mounzer, Dealer Partner of Foundation Squamish Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram.

Owing in part to its strong leadership and an all-star executive management team, Foundation Automotive has an innovative business model that has proven resilient during challenging times and has delivered impressive growth over the past several years. As such, Foundation Automotive continues to expand its operations in the USA as well as Canada. With their first acquisition taking place in British Columbia, the purchase of the FCA dealership in North Vancouver allows Foundation to come full circle, returning to British Columbia for their 20th acquisition.

Arvind Gupta will serve as dealer principal of Foundation North Vancouver Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram and has proven himself to be an innovator with a real passion for the automotive business. "We are delighted to give Arvind the opportunity to spread his wings in these dealerships," says Kevin Kutschinski, President and Chief Executive Officer of Foundation. "He is a star in the industry and we believe he will lead Foundation North Vancouver Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram to the pinnacle of performance in British Columbia." Arvind echoes his enthusiasm for the opportunity, saying, "I am very proud to continue my relationship with Foundation Auto and would like to congratulate and thank Destination Chrysler for allowing us this opportunity."

Destination Chrysler has, since opening their doors in 1983, empowered customers with the right information to find a vehicle to suit their needs. This mission will endure with Foundation Automotive at the helm, and customers will receive the same level of service and care that they have come to expect over the years.

"Destination Auto Group takes great pride in earning respect, being pillars of the community, and building relationships with customers," said Kevin Kutschinski. "We intend to carry on that legacy and are excited to be given this opportunity."

With the purchase of the assets of the North Shore Chrysler dealership, Foundation continues its vision of being the North American benchmark for top-tier automotive solutions and a company of trust, excellence, and innovation for our customers and employees. Learn more about Foundation Auto online at https://www.foundationauto.com.

SOURCE Foundation Automotive Corp

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foundationauto.com


Gladys Berejiklian is under pressure to ease restrictions after New South Wales recorded its sixth day without any community transmission.

The NSW premier announced on Thursday there were three new cases in the state, two are in hotel quarantine.

The third is believed to be an old case but was added to Thursday's numbers.

Hospitality leaders have been calling for restrictions to be eased to allow for double the amount of patrons inside a venue at one time.

The current one person per four square metre rule has been in place since May and has weighed heavily on the hospitality industry, with food and beverage sales down 60 per cent.

However, Ms Berejiklian was less than optimistic, saying residents 'should not assume this zero number is going to continue'.

Gladys Berejiklian is under pressure to ease restrictions as the state records six days without any community transmission

The current one person per four square metre rule has been in place since May and has weighed heavily on the hospitality industry, with food and beverage sales down 60 per cent (Pictured: Customers at the Opera Bar at Sydney Opera House)

The Australian Hotels Association said increasing the number of customers could allow for 15,000 new jobs in the hospitality sector (Pictured: A cafe in Bronte in Sydney)

'We know the disease is lurking in the community so I don't want anyone to be surprised if tomorrow or the day after we get cases of community transmission.'

The Australian Hotels Association said increasing the number of customers could allow for 15,000 new jobs in the hospitality sector.

The one person per two square metre rule has already been taken on in South Australia and Western Australia.

Queensland allows more patrons in venues under 200 square metres.

As NSW is about to enter into school holidays, the matter surrounding patrons will be highly considered if there is no new spike in infections.

The new case numbers come as Health Minister Brad Hazzard revealed there would still be a longer wait before the Victorian border is opened.

Food and beverage sales have been down 60 per cent as a result of having just one patron per four square metres (pictured, friends visit a bar in Sydney)

'I certainly would want to see a more stable situation in Victoria before we move forward,' he said.

'It's so hard. If we move to further ease restrictions, and then have to go backwards (that is) not something that community would want.'

Ms Berejiklian agreed, saying it is far too early to make those assessments.

'It's one thing to have close to zero cases when a lockdown is in place but it's about what happens when restrictions ease,' she said.

'We need to see a clear demonstration Victoria can manage cases.'
LONDON - An ambitious humanitarian project to deliver coronavirus vaccines to the world's poorest people is facing potential shortages of money, cargo planes, refrigeration and vaccines themselves  and is running into skepticism even from some of those it's intended to help most.

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This article was published 1/10/2020 (478 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

LONDON - An ambitious humanitarian project to deliver coronavirus vaccines to the world's poorest people is facing potential shortages of money, cargo planes, refrigeration and vaccines themselves  and is running into skepticism even from some of those it's intended to help most.

In one of the biggest obstacles, rich countries have locked up most of the worlds potential vaccine supply through 2021, and the U.S. and others have refused to join the project, called Covaxe.

FILE - In this Wednesday, June 24, 2020 file photo, a medical staff member prepares a syringe, at the Chris Hani Baragwanath hospital in Soweto, Johannesburg. Refrigeration, cargo planes, and, above all, money: All risk being in short supply for the international initiative to get coronavirus vaccines to the worlds most vulnerable people. (AP Photo/Siphiwe Sibeko, File)

The supply of vaccines is not going to be there in the near term, and the money also isnt there, warned Rohit Malpani, a public health consultant who previously worked for Doctors Without Borders.

Covax was conceived as a way of giving countries access to coronavirus vaccines regardless of their wealth.

It is being led by the World Health Organization, a U.N. agency; Gavi, a public-private alliance, funded in part by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, that buys immunizations for 60% of the worlds children; and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations, or CEPI, another Gates-supported public-private collaboration.

Covaxs aim is to buy 2 billion doses by the end of 2021, though it isn't yet clear whether the successful vaccine will require one dose or two for the world's 7.8 billion people. Countries taking part in the project can either buy vaccines from Covax or get them for free, if needed.

One early problem that has emerged: Some of the world's wealthiest nations have negotiated their own deals directly with drug companies, meaning they don't need to participate in the endeavour at all. China, Russia and the U.S. have said they do not intend to join. Other countries, including France and Germany, will technically join Covax but won't procure vaccines for their citizens via the initiative.

Not only that, but firm agreements with Covax came in too late to prevent more than half of all potential doses being snapped up by countries representing 13% of the worlds population, according to an Oxfam study.

As a continent of 1.2 billion people, we still have concerns, Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention director John Nkengasong said Thursday.

He praised Covax for the solidarity it represents but said there are serious questions about allocation, saying African nations' envoys are meeting directly with vaccine manufacturers to ask "if we came to the table with money, how would we get enough vaccines to cover the gap?

The European Union has contributed 400 million euros ($469 million) to support Covax, but the 27-country bloc won't use Covax to buy vaccines. Instead, the EU has signed its own deals to buy more than 1 billion doses, after some member states raised concerns about what was described as Gavi's dictatorship approach to running Covaxe.

Gavi, WHO and CEPI announced in September that countries representing two-thirds of the worlds population had joined Covax, but they acknowledged they still need about $300 million more from governments or other sources. By the end of next year, Gavi estimates the project will need $5 billion more.

Covax did reach a major agreement this week for 200 million doses from the Indian vaccine maker Serum Institute, though the company made clear that a large portion of those will go to people in India.

Covax said negotiations to secure vaccines are moving forward despite the lack of funds.

Gavi's Aurelia Nguyen, managing director of Covax, said that nothing similar has ever been attempted in public health.

Covax is a hugely ambitious project, she said, "but it is the only plan on the table to end the pandemic across the world.

Still, the project is facing doubts and questions from poor countries and activists over how it will operate and how effective it will be.

Dr. Clemens Auer, who sits on WHOs executive board and was the EUs lead negotiator for its vaccine deals, said there is a troubling lack of transparency about how Covax will work.

We would have no say over the vaccines, the price, the quality, the technical platform or the risks, Auer said. This is totally unacceptable.

He said WHO never consulted countries about its proposed vaccine strategy and called the health agencys goal of vaccinating the worlds most vulnerable people before anyone else a noble notion but politically naive.

As part of Covax, WHO and Gavi have asked countries to first prioritize front-line health workers, then the elderly, with the goal of vaccinating 20% of the world's population.

One expensive hurdle is that many of the vaccine candidates need to be kept cold from factory to patient, according to internal documents from Gavi. Industry has signalled that air freight for COVID vaccines will be a major constraint," and a significant and urgent ramp-up of cold chain capacity may be needed.

On Thursday, Gavi announced it will provide $150 million to help some countries with planning, technical assistance and refrigeration equipment.

Another obstacle: Many of the leading vaccine candidates require two doses. That will mean twice as many syringes, twice as much waste disposal, and the complications involved in ensuring patients in remote corners of the world receive the second dose on time and stay free of side effects.

Because of the fact that were looking at trying to get vaccines out as quickly as possible, were looking at limited follow-up and efficacy data, said Gian Gandhi, who runs logistics from UNICEFs supply division in Copenhagen.

There is also concern that the fear of lawsuits could scuttle deals. According to the internal documents, Gavi told countries that drug companies will probably require assurances that they won't face product liability claims over deaths or side effects from their vaccines.

Dr. Nakorn Premsi, director of Thailands National Vaccine Institute, said officials there are reviewing whether that condition is acceptable. Thailand so far has signed only a nonbinding agreement with Covaxe.

Some critics say Gavi isnt ambitious enough. The pandemic wont end until there is herd immunity well beyond the rich nations that have secured their own doses, said Eric Friedman, a scholar of global health law at Georgetown University who is generally supportive of Covax.

If we want to achieve herd immunity and get rid of this, 20% is not going to do it, he said. Whats the end game?

Alicia Yamin, an adjunct lecturer on global health at Harvard University, said she fears the window is closing for Covax to prove workable. She said it is disappointing that Gavi, WHO and their partners haven't pushed pharmaceutical companies harder on issues like intellectual property or open licenses, which might make more vaccines available.

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With little evidence of such fundamental change in the global health world, Yamin said it's likely that developing countries will have to rely on donated vaccines rather than any equitable allocation program.

I would say that poor countries probably will not get vaccinated until 2022 or 2023, Yamin said.

___

Lori Hinnant reported from Paris. Cara Anna contributed from Johannesburg.

___

Follow APs pandemic coverage at http://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak and https://apnews.com/UnderstandingtheOutbreak
Communications service providers (CSPs) must ensure they have the right foundations and transport in place to take full advantage of 5G.

This is the view of Mark Baptiste, director of Nokias IP and optical business for Africa.

There are so many moving parts at the moment, said Baptiste.

You have your transport or the mechanism to carry your traffic which includes Optics, IP and Microwave on the one side, but then we have things like virtualisation, public and private cloud, automation, software-defined networking (SDN) and security that are also fundamental to network operations.

That is why it is not only critical to get the transport right at the outset, but also to build it so that it can deliver today, while also catering for the requirements of the future.

CSPs have massive investments that they have made over the past 20 years which they cannot simply switch off.

Baptiste believes this is where transport becomes so important.

From a transport perspective, we do not distinguish between the existing and the future. What we are saying is that we must build networks that can operate securely, handle massive scale, and provide seriously high performance, said Baptiste.

The biggest challenge for CSPs is balancing the present while investing in the future. We all know that 2G and 3G will be around in Africa for a long time. For operators in Africa, it is about striking that balance between keeping existing customers happy, while looking at the business case for 5G, because everyone wants to be the first to make it a reality.

Time to strategise

Baptiste said the most important thing for CSPs right now is to get a strategic blueprint in place that determines how they evolve their network to cater for the requirements of 5G.

Nokia is strategically positioned to work with CSPs to build this end-to-end architecture where we would look at each of these elements holistically, and then we would strip them down in isolation to determine how we build each of these elements to meet their specific requirements, said Baptiste.

Then we would put it all together again in terms of a blueprint that provides the CSP with the Future X solutions Nokia always talks about.

Nokia has recently revolutionised data centre networking by launching its new data centre switching fabric.

This provides generational steps in data centre networking, new operating systems, and tools, and gives cloud builders unprecedented ability to adapt, automate and scale according to 5G demands.

Baptiste said that CSPs must focus on getting the basic building blocks of their transport platforms right early on.

If you have an under-dimensioned transport platform, it does not matter what you build  it will have a serious impact on your ability to deliver at scale on the rapidly evolving requirements of networking.

So, the key thing is to build that transport platform that can address security, massive scale, high performance and gives you all the automation and end-to-end requirements that you need, said Baptiste.

Nokia is proud to be a partner of Telkom in South Africa and, together, we look forward to building next generation transport networks, which are the bedrock for enabling digital services for consumers, enterprises and the public sector in South Africa.

Click here to learn more about Nokias 5G technologies.
After Real Madrid's 1-0 win over Real Valladolid on Wednesday night, Zinedine Zidane spoke to the media in his post-match press conference.

There were various questions, with a lot of focus on the transfer market and on Eden Hazard's injury.

Afterwards, as he was walked away, Zidane was caught by Gol TV's cameras uttering a sigh of frustration.

"How tiresome, man," he was heard muttering as he stood up.
Ben Lambert / Hearst Connecticut Media

NEW HAVEN  A 22-year-old man was shot near an apartment complex on Quinnipiac Avenue early Thursday morning, according to police.

Capt. Anthony Duff said police and firefighters responded to 911 calls about a person shot near the complex at 1134 Quinnipiac Ave. around 1:30 a.m., finding a wounded 22-year-old man in the driveway.
Mr Bartlett represented Queensland in the Senate from 1997 to 2008 as a member of the Australian Democrats.

Former senator Andrew Bartlett has been chosen to replace dumped Greens candidate John Meyer as the party's Clayfield hopeful following a bitter internal feud over campaign funding.

He has been chosen to run for the party once again, this time in the inner-north Brisbane seat of Clayfield, one of the key seats the Greens hope to pick up at the October 31 state election.

The seat is held by former state treasurer and LNP leader Tim Nicholls on a 2.4 per cent margin.

Mr Bartlett said the state was in the grips of a housing and jobs crisis.

"For things to change, we need to change our politicians. Clayfield is a marginal Liberal seat with a high and growing Green vote," he said.

"It sits within the boundaries of the federal seat of Brisbane which I contested last year, gaining votes from both Liberal and Labor.
YEREVAN/PARIS (Reuters) - Two French journalists working for newspaper Le Monde are in a grave condition after being shelled by Azeri forces in the town of Martuni in the Nagorno-Karabakh region, an Armenian government source told Reuters. Le Monde Chief Editor Luc Bronner told Reuters two Le Monde journalists, including one photographer, had been injured. No further details were immediately available.

YEREVAN/PARIS (Reuters) - Two French journalists working for newspaper Le Monde are in a grave condition after being shelled by Azeri forces in the town of Martuni in the Nagorno-Karabakh region, an Armenian government source told Reuters.

Le Monde Chief Editor Luc Bronner told Reuters two Le Monde journalists, including one photographer, had been injured. No further details were immediately available.

The journalists were born in 1989 and 1991, and had been filming civilians with a group of journalists in Martuni west of the Nagorno-Karabakh region, the Armenian source said.

(This story corrects location of Martuni)

(Reporting by Nvard Hovhannisyan; Additional reporting by Blandine Henault in Paris, Writing by Tom Balmforth; Editing by Alison Williams)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
"The power of art is that it brings together the unique voices of the community as evident in these pieces which range from solemn to celebratory." Christina Pfitzinger, Executive Director, Edgewater Chamber of Commerce.

To spread a message of hope and unity, the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce presents Reflections: An Edgewater Art Experience throughout the neighborhood from September 28  October 31. The project features local street artists, professional muralists, mosaic world masters, fine artists and others on storefronts, theatres, businesses and walls. The Chamber has partnered with art initiatives supported by the Lytle House, Urban Art Restart, Paint the City, the Chicago Mosaic School, and the 48th Ward.

More than 20 new outdoor art installations can be seen on Broadway, Bryn Mawr, Clark, Granville and Thorndale; a detailed map for self-guided tours is available by visiting edgewater.org. Photograph the QR codes found near each art installation to link to information about the art, artist, and participation location. There are no admission fees; online donation options are available.

Without the ability to produce events for the neighborhood as in past years, we wanted to create a program that brought people outdoors to explore Edgewater in a new way, says Christina Pfitzinger, Executive Director of the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce. The power of art is that it brings together the unique voices of the community as evident in these pieces which range from solemn to celebratory. We hope that participants will discover places they may have overlooked and take a moment to reflect.

This program brings attention to small businesses, theatres, available properties and the Edgewater neighborhood at a time when the ability to travel around the city is limited. Reflections: An Edgewater Art Experience allows residents the opportunity to explore the art already present in the neighborhood, seek out new places and spaces, and connect the events to communities as reflected through art. Edgewater has an active arts community and legacy of public art; Reflections adds to the existing Edgewater art cityscape.

The city will never be the same. There is now an experience we all share from this point moving forward. An experience that is rooted in pain but is sprouting with hope and unity, said Barrett Keithley, artist and Paint the City organizer. We hope the art gives hope and an opportunity to peacefully open a dialogue on issues we face today.

"With our stages currently dark we're thrilled to partner with Edgewater Chamber of Commerce who have illuminated our windows with public art, said Markie Gray, Managing Director of Raven Theatre, which features two spray-paint-on-plywood pieces from Cristina Vanko and Dwight White, respectively. 2020 has been a year like none other and the work on display provides a snapshot of our current moment. A moment where black lives matter, our nation is divided, and artistic expression prevails. In this time of dark we hope these works of art bring awareness to a movement while brightening the streets of Edgewater."

About Paint the City and Urban Art Restart

Earlier this year, an art alliance called Paint the City (PTC), was formed to create works of art on board-ups of buildings throughout the city as a form of protest. PTC aims to use art as a way to respond to how the world is currently understanding systemic racism.

Urban Art Restart was created to support the work of Paint the City and many other Chicagoland artists by preserving the peaceful messages of solidarity while also shedding light on the artists, their stories, and what has compelled them to create each piece.

About the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce

The Edgewater Chamber of Commerce creates and supports a thriving business environment, while attracting new commercial business, contributing to a vibrant Edgewater Community on the north side of Chicago.

For more information visit https://www.edgewater.org/.
The destructive Glass Fire still raging in Sonoma and Napa counties has charred more than 46,000 acres. Its also damaged vulnerable internet and cell phone infrastructure, adding more disruption to residents as they evacuate and watch fearfully to learn the fates of their homes and businesses.

Fires can bring down utility poles, damage fiber-optic cables and cut off power, which internet networks depend on. With evacuation orders and other emergency communications dependent on online communication, the latest wildfires highlight the urgent need for more resilient connections as more fires have raged through Northern California.

Joan Hammel, a spokesperson for Comcast, a major provider of broadband service in the Bay Area, told The Chronicle that there were about 5,000 residential and 250 commercial Comcast customers without internet or phone service Tuesday in the cities of Angwin, St. Helena, Santa Rosa and Kenwood. Comcast provides both wired broadband and internet-based phone service.

Calistoga also experienced fire-related outages, but services for Comcast customers in that area were restored Tuesday, Hammel said. The city remained evacuated  its residents among the nearly 80,000 in Sonoma and Napa counties whove been ordered to leave their homes. Hammel said engineers and technicians took advantage of a safe window of opportunity to restore service for those who needed access.

Jim Kimberly, an AT&T spokesperson, said customers in the area have also experienced outages. Some customers have temporarily regained services through mobile cell sites and other temporary systems placed in areas affected by wildfires, he said.

During the wildfires over the past few months, we deployed more than 70 assets to support communications for customers and first responders, Kimberly said. Forty of those deployments have happened since early September and we have 14 satellite, movable cell sites that are actively providing service to keep our customers and first responders connected.

Sonic, headquartered in Santa Rosa, serves the Napa Valley, but CEO Dane Jasper said the fires hadnt damaged any of the companys infrastructure as of Wednesday morning. He said the only outages Sonic saw were from PG&Es planned fire-prevention shutoffs, which affected a few hundred customers in the North Bay counties. PG&E restored power by Monday night. Those also affected Comcast, Hammel said.

Rural communities throughout Wine Country are among the most vulnerable to fire-related outages, and not having internet access makes it difficult to communicate clear emergency evacuation orders to residents or locate residents who are in trouble, according to a 2019 report by California Gov. Gavin Newsoms strike force on wildfires and climate change.

One-hundred percent of our customer market is vulnerable to the fires, said Ofer Tenenbaum, CEO of Valley Internet, a Fairfield internet provider which serves the region. His firm uses both fiber and fixed wireless to serve rural areas in Napa and Solano counties, and lost a few hundred customers and some towers to the LNU Lightning Complex fires and the more recent fires, he said.

To restore service after the annual fire season, Tenenbaum said, his firm now has to rebuild the towers over and over again, nonstop.

His firm was dropped by his insurer, the Hartford Financial Services Group, in 2017, he said, and must now pay the cost of rebuilding itself.

Now Playing: Wildfires are once again ravaging Northern California's Wine Country. The Glass Fire threatens communities in Sonoma and Napa counties, including Santa Rosa, that suffered destruction from blazes in 2017. Video: San Francisco Chronicle

Everything is coming out of cash flow, he said.

Larger firms, too, are spending more. Kimberly said AT&T announced a multiyear, $340 million fire preparation plan that includes installing generators at some sites, upgrading batteries at others, and strategically deploying portable generators throughout the state. Overall, AT&T spent $8.7 billion on wireless and wired networks in California, he added.

Hammel said that it is impossible to completely avoid wildfire damage to fiber-optic lines, but that Comcast is always working for a more resilient network.

Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes

In July, the California Public Utilities Commission required wireless cell phone companies to devise comprehensive resiliency plans to ensure necessary planning and network investments are made to maintain service to customers during a disaster or power outage, including Public Safety Power Shut-offs.

The commission required wireless providers to submit emergency operations plans within two months from July 16, to adopt backup power thats available for 72 hours, and file communications resiliency plans that detail their ability to maintain a minimum level of service and coverage during a disaster or power outage.

Magellan Advisors, a private broadband development firm, presented a report to Napa County officials this week on high-speed internet access and access to rural areas.

The report also said that the area is a network cul-de-sac, which means a fiber cut in American Canyon could potentially take out all communications in the area.

That report accurately calls out some of the vulnerabilities of the Napa and Calistoga region, which is an issue also in northern Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake counties, Sonics Jasper said. From an infrastructure perspective, the fiber that carriers rely on to provide access runs up Highway 29 north up to the Napa Valley and it sort of peters out and ends.

Theres a vulnerability to infrastructure damage somewhere down that line and there also isnt another route out of town for data traffic, voice calls, internet access, whatever it might be.

Bryan Mena is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: bryan.mena@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @bpmena
DUBLIN, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The "US Food & Beverage Marketplace" book has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

This information-packed set is the most powerful buying and marketing guide for the U.S. food and beverage industry. Anyone involved in the food and beverage industry needs this industry bible on their desk to build important contacts and develop critical research data that can make for successful business growth. This new edition includes thousands of new companies, updates and enhancements to offer immediate access to up-to-date data on 45,000 companies in 8 different Industry Groups: Manufacturers, Equipment Supplies, Transportation, Warehouses, Wholesalers, Brokers, Importers and Exporters.



Each of the eight chapters reflects a massive update effort. This 2021 edition includes hundreds of new company profiles and thousands of updates throughout the three volumes. You will find 83,214 key executives, 22,668 websites, and 15,869 e-mails.

In addition to company profiles, this edition has 17 indexes, 15 chapter-specific, arranged by geographic region, product or company type, and two-All Brands and All Companies-that comprise all three volumes. Plus, chapters include User Guides that help you navigate chapter-specific data.



Detailed contact information includes mailing address, phone and fax numbers, key executives, website and email addresses, sales volume and employee size, warehouse square footage, brands, product description and direct access to over 80,000 Key Executives. To make finding contacts easy, this edition includes 16 Industry Group Indexes. Plus, it indexes over 10,000 product categories to make locating the manufacturers of any product quick and easy. This report makes it easy to contact new vendors, search out fresh costumers and discover new products.



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Summary of Best Practices for Retail Food Stores, Restaurants, and Food Pick-Up/Delivery Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The Impact of COVID-19 on Shopping Behavior

Food & Beverage Manufacturers User Guide

Food & Beverage Product Category List

Food & Beverage Product Categories

Food & Beverage Manufacturer Profiles

Brand Name Index

Ethnic Food Index

Geographic Index

Parent Company Index

VOLUME 2

Equipment, Supplies & Services User Guide

Equipment, Supplies & Services Product Category List

Equipment, Supplies & Services Product Categories

Equipment, Supplies & Services Company Profiles

Brand Name Index

Geographic Index

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Broker Companies User Guide

Broker Company Profiles

Broker Market Index

Brokered Product Index

Importers/Exporters User Guide

Importers/Exporters Company Profiles

Export Region Index

Import Region Index

Transportation Firms User Guide

Transportation Firm Profiles

Transportation Region Index

Transportation Type Index

Warehouse Companies User Guide

Warehouse Company Profiles

Warehouse Region Index

Warehouse Type and Service Index

Wholesalers/Distributors User Guide

Wholesalers/Distributors Company Profiles

Wholesale Product Type Index

ALL BRANDS INDEX

ALL COMPANIES INDEX

For more information about this book visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/j3rll2

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Research and Markets also offers Custom Research services providing focused, comprehensive and tailored research.



Media Contact:

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Online grocery giant Ocado is unlawfully selling its technology and robots in breach of patents owned by a rival Norwegian firm, according to court documents.

AutoStore said it is suing Ocado in the UK and US over the alleged breach, filing papers at the High Court in London and the International Trade Commission in America.

Bosses say the order is to bar Ocado and its partners from manufacturing and selling infringing products and importing them into the US - and adds Ocado was even a customer of AutoStore in 2012.

The company is also suing for financial damages, thought to run into the hundreds of millions of pounds.

Ocado is sued by AutoStore for 'illegally selling its technology and robots'

In the US filing, AutoStore points out that Ocado's deal with US retailer Kruger to install its robotic smart platforms across 20 warehouses, saw Ocado bank 55 million dollars (42.6 million) per site.

The company said it is seeking an order barring Ocado and its partner Tharsus Group from manufacturing and selling 'infringing products and importing them' into the United States.

The filing in the High Court is calling on the courts to block sales of Ocado's products from the UK too.

Chief executive of Autostore, Karl Johan Lier, said: 'Since 1996, AutoStore has developed and pioneered technology that has revolutionised retail storage and order fulfilment, and is driving the growth of online retail.

'Our ownership of the technology at the heart of Ocado's warehousing system is clear.

'We will not tolerate Ocado's continued infringement of our intellectual property rights in its effort to boost its growth and attempt to transform itself into a global technology company.'

Ocado's technology has been sold around the world, with Marks and Spencer and Morrisons buying up services in the UK

He explained that his system works with storage bins stacked vertically in a grid and stored in a cubic structure, with the bins retrieved by robots that travel on the top of the structure.

Around 500 installations and 18,000 robots across 30 countries are used by firms including UK supermarket Asda, US retailer Best Buy and German airline Lufthansa.

It added: 'Ocado's infringement of AutoStore's AS/RS intellectual property - including the storage system and robots - is the foundation on which the 'Ocado Smart Platform' (OSP) was built and on which Ocado's business today is based.'

Several alleged infringements also include the 'central cavity design' of the robots, the arrangement of the lifting mechanism and their in-wheel motors.

A court in Norway has already found that AutoStore is entitled to ownership of its patents covering the robots' central cavity technology, it added.

A spokesperson for Ocado said: 'Ocado confirms it has not received any papers in relation to these claims and this is the first we have heard of this new claim.

'We are not aware of any infringement of any valid Autostore rights and of course we will investigate any claims once we receive further details.

'We have multiple patents protecting the use of our systems in grocery and we are investigating whether Autostore has, or intends to infringe those patents.

'We will always vigorously protect our intellectual property.'

Around 500 installations and 18,000 robots across 30 countries are used by firms including UK supermarket Asda

Ocado's technology has been sold around the world, with Marks and Spencer and Morrisons buying up services in the UK.

Prior to selling its tech services, Ocado struggled to turn a profit due to wafer-thin margins of only a few percent on its home delivery business.

Founder Tim Steiner insisted he would continue looking for outside investors to buy the technology - with the Kruger deal marking a turning point, eventually catapulting the firm into the FTSE 100.

The unprofitable grocery division was eventually bought by M&S and turned into a 50/50 joint venture, which offered online food delivery last month for the first time.
Forty-five percent of slum residents and 18% of individuals from other areas surveyed across three city wards were exposed to Sars-Cov2, the virus that causes coronavirus disease (Covid-19), till Augusts second half, according to the second phase of the sero survey conducted by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), as part of the national study. The civic body said the results indicate that there could be a reduction in the infections spread in slum areas.

The sero survey is a study of how many people have antibodies (Immunoglobulin-G) against Sars-Cov-2 in their blood, indicating these people may have been silently infected and recovered, thus helping to map the trend and spread of infection.

The latest survey showed that the virus prevalence in slums went down by 12 percentage points and rose marginally in non-slums, in comparison to the first study in the first half of July. In the first survey, 6,936 samples were collected from R-North (Dahisar, Borivli), M-West (Chembur), F-North (Dadar, Matunga, Wadala), of which 57% samples from slums showed antibodies, followed by 16% from non-slum areas.

The BMCs second survey, covering the same areas, tested 5,384 people and found 45% samples from slums and 18% from non-slum areas showed antibodies.

Suresh Kakani, additional municipal commissioner in-charge of the public health department of BMC, said, It is encouraging that in slums, the rate of infection is going down. The number of infected health workers is also less, because of the care they have been taking.

Even though recent trends show that high-rises across Mumbai are reporting more Covid-19 cases, Kakani said, In high-rises, there were only 18% people with antibodies, because this survey was done before the Ganesh festival. It was after the festival that our number of cases increased, and people got a chance to mingle with each other.

The BMC in a statement on Thursday said, Sero-positivity from the second round indicates there could be a reduction in the spread of infection in slum areas. Marginal increase in sero-positivity of non-slum areas correlates with increase in reported cases in August from non-slum areas.

According to BMC officials, in the second phase, the sero-prevalence observed among health workers working in slum areas was lower than sero-prevalence in the slum populations (citizens), and this could be due to Covid-19 appropriate behaviour, which includes use of masks and hand hygiene.

The BMC, further in the statement, added, Emerging scientific evidence hints at fall of antibody levels in recovered or asymptomatic patients over a period of time and might have contributed to the trend between two rounds of sero-survey. The impact of this on immunity, if any, is still unknown.

Further, the second phase stated that sero-prevalence in women was marginally higher than men in both the rounds, followed by age-wise prevalence, which was comparable to the first round in all ages. In the second round, sero-prevalence in the age group of people above 40 was slightly higher. Sero-prevalence among health workers in both rounds was approximately 27% (as an average).

According to BMC, the second phase of the sero survey was conducted in the second half of August, in which out of a total 5,840 samples, 5,384 participants [92%] were recruited from the general population, while the remaining were frontline workers. In the whole exercise (combining both phases of the surve), a total of 728 health workers were recruited for the study.

Meanwhile, in the second phase, the sampling included people who may have been symptomatic and recovered or asymptomatic. Further, no sampling was done in active containment zones (i.e. during the study period) followed by around 1-2% of the samples belonged to people who had participated in both the rounds.
(Photo: Illustration: Damon Dahlen/HuffPost; Photos: Getty)

Every four years, millions of foreigners watch America choose its president, knowing a decision in which they have no say could reshape their lives. In 2020, observers abroad see a choice that isnt about a conservative turn or a liberal shift, but whether the worlds most powerful country can maintain the democratic standards its long promoted.

A victory for President Donald Trump would be a blow to the principle that leaders should commit to peaceful transitions of power. It would give a stamp of legitimacy to his methods aimed at entrenching his rule, like rushing to appoint a friendly Supreme Court justice pre-election before ballots may face judicial challenges, working to make it harder to vote and rejecting nearly all scrutiny by lawmakers or the public. And a Trump reelection would vindicate authoritarian tactics like his dismissal of opposition to him as un-American and criminal, and his months-long effort to depict the U.S. voting system as too broken to produce a trustworthy result, which some intelligence officials call a greater threat to the upcoming vote than foreign interference.

On Tuesday, Trump used the biggest moment of the campaign so far  the first presidential debate  to tell violent right-wing group the Proud Boys to stand back and stand by, as he declined to condemn them or white supremacists who have expressed support for him.

For Trump to triumph over Democratic nominee Joe Biden would be an alarming sign that U.S. democratic institutions are badly damaged and likely to crumble further. And that would reverberate internationally. With the worlds most influential country clearly in democratic decline, authoritarianism and political figures dismissive of the rule of law will take advantage.

Despite all the hypocrisy all its faults and all its problems with racism, [America] is seen as a very vibrant democracy which is discussing its problems very openly, said Oliver Stuenkel, a professor at the Getulio Vargas Foundation in Sao Paulo. Even people who are very critical of U.S. foreign policy recognize that these things are very important for the global fight for human rights and for democracy.

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Brazil serves as an example. Trumps shock 2016 win boosted Jair Bolsonaro to that nations presidency two years later, Stuenkel said. Should Trump succeed in 2020 using undemocratic means, Bolsonaro could behave similarly in his own reelection bid in 2022  without fear of American condemnation.

Possibilities like that are what makes Americas election so much more consequential than I think most U.S. voters appreciate, Stuenkel added.

In India, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his allies have echoed Trump by whipping up fear of Muslims and bashing independent media outlets, Trumps attacks on the rule of law suggest even more troubling developments could lie ahead in both countries, said Harsh Mander, a rights activist who runs the Centre for Equity Studies in New Delhi. Fear of international criticism, particularly from the U.S., is one of the few constraints on Modis power. Trump would be unlikely to offer that because of his ideological brotherhood with the prime minister, Mander said.

The danger to the United States and to the world of a leader like Donald Trump is something we are conscious of around the world, Mander added, describing American institutions as enormously shaky.

Trumps disdain for American allies and values, and his transactional, flippant and often brutal approach to global affairs, have already damaged the U.S.s historic claim to global leadership. His disastrous response to the coronavirus pandemic has further weakened the image of the U.S. to all-time lows in some countries.

Now even Europeans, Americas closest partners on the world stage, have huge concern over the state of U.S. democracy, according to Nathalie Tocci, the director of the Instituto Affari Internazionali think tank in Rome and an adviser to the European Unions foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell.

Democracy is not just elections, Tocci said. The real stuff that democracies are made of are the rights and the laws and the institutions. The extent to which that is being harmed and that is being degraded is probably the most dangerous element of all.

Dark Days Ahead

After campaign season ends, the immediate aftermath of the election will likely spur even more anxiety internationally. The widely expected scenario  a popular vote loss by Trump, legal battles over ballot-counting and days, if not weeks, of uncertainty over who won the Electoral College  will suggest a divided, drifting nation rather than a confident, mature republic.

America is the champion of the liberal order, of checks and balances, and at a time in which autocracy is trying to gain momentum, the very fact that there are doubts in the U.S. election, such as a contested result and the use of the Supreme Court to find out who will be the president, is of great concern, said Paolo Magri, the executive vice president of the Italian Institute for International Political Studies in Milan.

Should Trump secure a second term, he and the Republican Party would be emboldened to further solidify their grip on power. Thats a familiar pattern elsewhere: Since winning re-election last year, Indias Modi has revoked the quasi-independence of the disputed state of Kashmir, broken worldwide records for internet shutdowns to deter protesters, rendered almost two million people stateless, pushed new citizenship restrictions that discriminate against Muslims and cracked down on watchdogs like Amnesty International.

The United States in a second term with Donald Trump might actually see what is happening to us in our second term [with Modi] where all institutions of democracy seem to be being destroyed, Mander said.

India Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump share authoritarian instincts -- and both could be emboldened by a Trump reelection. The two are seen here in Ahmedabad, India, earlier this year. (Photo: Francis Mascarenhas / Reuters)

Successful power grabs by Trump would also inspire his ideological fellow travelers. Chamila Liyanage, a researcher at the Britain-based Centre for Analysis of the Radical Right, said a Trump win would empower populist right-wing figures in Europe, from elected officials to extreme anti-immigrant groups and advocates for conspiracy theories like QAnon, which are spreading rapidly on the continent. And more mainstream European politicians may be persuaded that emphasizing nativism and ultra-conservative positions on matters like abortion rights is politically smart, Magri said.

Combined with pandemic-related turmoil, election disputes could be a gift for extremists, according to Liyanage.

The radical right always wanted a crisis to discredit democracies, she said in an email.

While their loyalty to Trump can vary, they accept his reckless attack on liberal democratic ideals, she added, referring to organizations in the European radical right ecosystem. These grassroots groups are more dangerous than President Trump himself.

The Biden Effect

Theres an alternate scenario that global observers hope for. Should Biden win a clear mandate and Trump leave office relatively calmly, America could show that representative government can survive even serious challenges.

It does send a signal that populism and challenges to democracy and to the integrity of democratic institutions are short-lived... It would be a signal to Bolsonaro and to other authoritarian-minded populists, not just in Latin America but around the world, said Orlando Perez, the dean of the school of liberal arts and sciences at the University of North Texas at Dallas.

A Biden administration would likely roll out policies that bolster faith in the U.S. and re-engage with the international community, like offering temporary protected status to people fleeing the crisis in Venezuela, Perez said, and addressing concerns about whether a coronavirus vaccine would be distributed to poorer countries.

Thats not to say a Biden win would be a panacea for democracys ills.

An American president is elected to have America first... so I do not have any specific illusions that a Biden presidency will solve the problems of the world or will specifically help Europe and Italy, Magri said. Having said that, I believe that Trump was in a sense a threat to Europes unity... Its good to have someone whos not betting on the disintegration of Europe.

Trump cheered Britains withdrawal from the E.U. and has boosted European nationalists who dislike continent-wide cooperation and shared principles about democratic norms.

Activists abroad are keen to learn lessons from Trumps opponents if the presidents reelection bid is thwarted.

In Brazil, interest in the U.S. election has spread beyond those who traditionally follow the process, such as elite policy-makers. Bolsonaros critics are tracking how Democrats react to Trumps efforts to shape the news cycle. They also are watching whether the party can unite factions like Biden fans and supporters of more left-leaning figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Stuenkel said.

Rodrigo Duterte, the president of the Philippines, is another leader who has celebrated violence and targeted journalists. His rise and Trumps in 2016 were a wake-up call to our people for action, solidarity, community and movement-building to unite, to protect and defend democracy, Naomi Fontanos, the executive director of the Philippine transgender rights group GANDA, said in an email.

For her, the attempts in the U.S. to confront its racist past over the summer had already raised the prospect of a national renewal towards greater justice, she said. My hope is that the American people will overcome... There has been so much divisiveness in society in the time of Trump and Duterte, but we shouldnt lose hope for better days and must not treat each other as the enemy. This is what authoritarian leaders or tyrants do: They pit the people against each other.

The Deeper Rot

The work of making America a stronger democracy cant be completed in 2020. And foreigners with the benefit of distance see big problems to address beyond Trump.

The broader GOP campaign to limit voting access and question government institutions and regulation predates the president. That makes this election a tipping point and not a shock to Tocci, the analyst and E.U. adviser.

Were taking one step further on the path that the Republican Party has been on that essentially means abdicating democracy. Its the straw that breaks the camels back, she said.

A recent report from the progressive group Take Back the Court described how even after a Biden win, a strong conservative majority on the Supreme Court could reject Democratic-led attempts to counter voter purges and the practice of drawing legislative districts along partisan lines, a major factor in the increasing extremism of elected officials.

Its also unclear how far Trumps opponents would go to tackle how U.S. foreign policy contributes to destructive trends at home like xenophobia, disdain for human rights standards and executive overreach.

Under President Barack Obama, the U.S. expanded its defense ties to the Philippines  a relationship Trump and Duterte consolidated even as the Philippine leader led a war on drugs that killed more than 10,000 people, Fontanos noted. Additionally, Obama crafted the Trans-Pacific Partnership, an expansive trade deal that activists in her country and its neighbors saw as anti-environment, anti-poor and anti-worker  and that she believes Biden would revive. (Biden championed the agreement during the Obama administration but now says he would not join it as it stands and would renegotiate it.)

What we need is for leaders in the Philippines and the U.S. to realize how something like the [deal allowing military exercises in the Philippines] enables continued American imperialism, Fontanos said.

And defeating Trump doesnt mean defeating all the forces interested in a more authoritarian direction for global politics.

If Joe Biden wins, the radical right narrative would be emboldened to claim that the leftist Democrats... and the globalists seized power, said Layanage, the researcher on European right-wing extremism. Given how far and wide these strange belief systems have already circulated... Bidens win will present him with wider challenges as a leader of a beleaguered democracy.

In places where coronavirus concerns have already been used as a cover for more autocratic measures to control people, like parts of Latin America, the path to greater freedom extends well beyond the U.S. election.

Having Biden as president and beating Trump is going to send a positive signal about the perils of populism and of challenging democratic institutions, but it doesnt mean that everybody in the region is going to listen to it, Perez said.

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Today we'll do a simple run through of a valuation method used to estimate the attractiveness of Pacific Smiles Group Limited (ASX:PSQ) as an investment opportunity by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to today's value. We will take advantage of the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model for this purpose. Don't get put off by the jargon, the math behind it is actually quite straightforward.

We would caution that there are many ways of valuing a company and, like the DCF, each technique has advantages and disadvantages in certain scenarios. If you want to learn more about discounted cash flow, the rationale behind this calculation can be read in detail in the Simply Wall St analysis model.

See our latest analysis for Pacific Smiles Group

Is Pacific Smiles Group fairly valued?

We're using the 2-stage growth model, which simply means we take in account two stages of company's growth. In the initial period the company may have a higher growth rate and the second stage is usually assumed to have a stable growth rate. In the first stage we need to estimate the cash flows to the business over the next ten years. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value:

10-year free cash flow (FCF) estimate

2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 Levered FCF (A$, Millions) AU$16.3m AU$17.0m AU$19.4m AU$20.8m AU$21.9m AU$22.9m AU$23.8m AU$24.6m AU$25.4m AU$26.1m Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x1 Analyst x1 Analyst x1 Est @ 7.03% Est @ 5.6% Est @ 4.6% Est @ 3.9% Est @ 3.41% Est @ 3.06% Est @ 2.82% Present Value (A$, Millions) Discounted @ 7.3% AU$15.2 AU$14.8 AU$15.7 AU$15.7 AU$15.4 AU$15.1 AU$14.6 AU$14.1 AU$13.5 AU$12.9

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = AU$146m

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After calculating the present value of future cash flows in the initial 10-year period, we need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all future cash flows beyond the first stage. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a country's GDP growth. In this case we have used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (2.3%) to estimate future growth. In the same way as with the 10-year 'growth' period, we discount future cash flows to today's value, using a cost of equity of 7.3%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2030  (1 + g)  (r  g) = AU$26m (1 + 2.3%)  (7.3% 2.3%) = AU$533m

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= AU$533m ( 1 + 7.3%)10= AU$265m

The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is AU$411m. To get the intrinsic value per share, we divide this by the total number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of AU$1.8, the company appears quite good value at a 34% discount to where the stock price trades currently. Remember though, that this is just an approximate valuation, and like any complex formula - garbage in, garbage out.

dcf

Important assumptions

We would point out that the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate and of course the actual cash flows. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Pacific Smiles Group as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 7.3%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.833. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business.

Moving On:

Whilst important, the DCF calculation shouldn't be the only metric you look at when researching a company. DCF models are not the be-all and end-all of investment valuation. Instead the best use for a DCF model is to test certain assumptions and theories to see if they would lead to the company being undervalued or overvalued. If a company grows at a different rate, or if its cost of equity or risk free rate changes sharply, the output can look very different. Can we work out why the company is trading at a discount to intrinsic value? For Pacific Smiles Group, we've compiled three pertinent factors you should assess:

Risks: For example, we've discovered 1 warning sign for Pacific Smiles Group that you should be aware of before investing here. Future Earnings: How does PSQ's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other High Quality Alternatives: Do you like a good all-rounder? Explore our interactive list of high quality stocks to get an idea of what else is out there you may be missing!

PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every Australian stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.

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. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.



Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com.
Democrats love to claim that their party underwent a metamorphosis in the 1960s, when they finally washed away the taint of slavery past. The Rebellion, in which Democrats played principal roles in causing, was a century in the rearview mirror. Goes the spin: Democrats vanquished their post-Civil War record of virulent racism, which expressed itself in Jim Crow (Southern apartheid) and the atrocities of the nightriding Ku Klux Klan -- the partys white-garbed brownshirts -- who ranged beyond the South, terrorizing blacks in states where Democrats concentrated.

As we view the Democratic Party from the vantage point of October, 2020, we see that the partys character is unchanged. The party of slavery, rebellion, and Jim Crow has found new expressions for its darker inclinations.

Antifa and BLM are knockoffs of the KKK. Riots and mob violence in blue cities are very much the provocations of the partys new strongarms. Trashing and terrorizing cities arent an end, but a beginning. Theyre demonstration projects of sorts. Roadshows are to follow if the rest of us dont knuckle under.

Democrats have never lost their appetite for oppression. Underclass blacks are as exploited and kept down today as blacks were in the Jim Crow South. Now, though, theyre given welfare checks, public housing, and handhelds in exchange for votes. Democrats Great Society schemes empowered white and black overseers and lined their pockets, but decades ago failed to lift poor blacks out of their circumstances. Black generational poverty is bondage.

Racism remains the Democratic Partys franchise. Blaming nonblack Americans for racism and underclass black failure is audacity borne of desperation. Politics demand it. So, Democrats offload their culpability. Theyve run major cities for many decades, yet have nothing to show but empty promises and miserably bad policies and corrupt governance. Say Democrats, white Americans  save for woke affluent progressives and leftists -- must suffer for the sin of racism, current and historic.

Democrats arent discriminating, however. They want to plantationize Hispanics. Democrats political viability requires capturing Hispanic constituencies.

Charges of society-wide racism are a powerful wedge that Democrats are using in their efforts to upend America. The American experiment in liberty was illegitimate, per Democrats radicalizing view. Tyranny -- under the guises of progressivism and democratic socialism -- is the prescription, perhaps a softer variety, like Xi Jinpings China, where a social credit system is daily refined, and where oligarchs and leftist apparatchiks thrive. Though ask Hong Kong citizens, Tibetans, and Uyghurs about what "soft tyranny" means. Todays Democrats have more than rebellion on their minds. They have revolution.

Whats the Green New Deal but a form of economic revolution, a means of drastically reordering society through the ruse of environmental concern? Medicare for All, which destroys Medicare for seniors, is thinly disguised socialized medicine. Vilifying and making calls to defund police is nothing more than an effort to undermine law and order. What is Critical Race Theory other than an insidious attack on bedrock American principles?

Hence, modern Democrats pose new, and in critical ways, greater threats to the well-being of the Republic than their forerunners.

Marx, not God, increasingly informs their worldviews. Faith was once invoked by Democrats to rationalize slavery and white supremacy. Today, Marxism in practice is slavery. Marxism is the antithesis of Judeo-Christian faith. Charity, equality, and brotherhood cannot be coerced. Marxism is all sham. It has no good intentions. Its a means to an end: power.

Among Democrats, nihilism afflicts. Its the practical consequence of godlessness. Its end-stage rot. The rot -- a consuming hedonism -- began infiltrating society with the 60s counterculture and has been metastasizing ever since. An outgrowth, in part, is Democrats contempt for traditional virtues: family, faith, hard work, merit.

But Democrats, old and new, reconverge in historic fashion. While old Democrats embraced, defended, and promoted the abomination of slavery, contemporary Democrats likewise champion abortion. Abortion has been referred to as the slavery issue of modern times, and it is. The killing of hundreds of thousands of innocents in wombs annually for decades is the other great moral stain on the nation. Not incidentally, unborn black babies are killed at horrifically high numbers.

From the Caldron Pool, September 28, 2020:

The President made the comments during a speech in Atlanta, Georgia on Friday, where he noted the hypocrisy of the Democrats for affirming Black Lives Matter while supporting Planned Parenthood, an organization that President Trump said, was founded on racism and that continues to target the black community. Hes not wrong. The abortion industry kills as many black people every four days as the Ku Klux Klan killed in 150 years. Between 1882 and 1968, there were reportedly 3,446 lynchings of black people in the United States. Today, more black people are killed by white abortionists every three days than all who were lynched in those years.

Emboldened Democrats have discarded the pretense of rare and medically necessary abortions. They now unabashedly promote late-term abortion up to birth. Their inhumanity and ghoulishness know no bounds.

The day will arrive when the mass slaughter of the innocent will be seen for the great evil that it is, and with that genuine awakening, Democrats will again be seen as culprits in a colossal evil. Some things never change.

Years ago, friends and acquaintances used to think I was being facetious. The Democratic Party should have been abolished at the close of the Civil War, Id say with a very straight face. There certainly was justification. It was the party of slavery, as it had been from its inception. Its legislation and policies were catalysts in the ruptures leading to civil war. Northern Democrats -- many known as Peace Democrats or more accurately, Copperheads -- served as a fifth column. They aided and abetted their rebellious southern fellows.

Imagine at the end of World War II had the Allies permitted the National Socialist German Workers' Party to continue? Regarding moral considerations, where does slavery stack up against the persecution and extermination of the Jews (among others)? Both are, indeed, evils. The Germans exploited slave labor as well. Extermination, though, surpasses slavery as an evil, in that when you take a human beings life, you take-away any chance of liberty, and the exercise of natural rights that undergird freedom. Yet, you can argue that any human being who lives, from birth to death, in bondage, suffers a form of death. Millions of black slaves suffered a form of death.

Millions of unborn children suffer literal death at the hands of abortionists. Their rights as human beings discarded with their tortured bodies. Theres one party that stands squarely for this slaughter, the Democratic Party the party of riots, racism, rot, and rebellion.

J. Robert Smith can be found on Twitter @JRobertSmith1 and Parler @JRobertSmith. He also blogs at Flyover.

Image: Takisha Rappold
After the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) made it compulsory for residents of Mumbai to wear masks in public spaces amid Covid-19 pandemic, the civic agency has till now, penalised 14,000 people for violating the guideline. Health officials say that despite the order, several Mumbaikars are spotted out on a morning walks with their masks lowered to their chins.

According to a report in Hindustan Times, till September 26, BMC had collected fines amounting to Rs 52.76 lakh for the non-observance of the mandatory mask rule. Jyoti Jadhav, from A wards SWM department, told the publication that when these individuals are quizzed, they complain of breathing issues. She added that many even claim to be suffering from asthma and feel suffocated while walking wearing masks. However, Dr Prashant Borade of Global Hospital said there is no scientific evidence that proves that wearing masks leads to asthma or other serious breathing ailments.

It was in June when the citys civic agency put out an order that made mask-wearing compulsory in public spaces. The rule was enforced through the field officers, 25 from each ward who were selected from the solid waste management (SWM) department. The officers have come across bizarre reasons from residents for not wearing masks. Some even say it flew off while they were riding a bike. Once, a defaulter told me that a pigeon had pooped on his mask, field inspector Dharmesh Salvi was saying.

The litany of excuses includes sensitive skin, sweat allergy, heat rash, with many also saying that they were eating something before being identified by the field inspector.

The BMC collected Rs 19 lakh as fines from over 9,200 individuals who flouted the mask rule between September 13 and September 26. Notably, since September, the fine is Rs 200. On Tuesday, BMC said that individuals not wearing masks will not be permitted to access public transportation. Malls, offices and other private spaces have also been directed to limit entry to only those wearing masks.

Meanwhile, Mumbai on Wednesday recorded 2,654 fresh COVID-19 cases, taking the total tally to 2,05,142, the BMC said, adding that 46 fatalities took the toll to 8,926. At 2,389, Mumbai had reported the highest number of new cases in a day on September 17, it said.A total of 2,066 patients were discharged in the last24 hours, taking the total count of recoveries to1,69,268, the BMC said. The city now has 26,540 active cases.
Talks between Singapore and Australia about a travel bubble have begun after the city-state announced it would allow entry from all states and territories excluding Victoria from next week.

Singapore's Transport Minister Ong Ye Kung said in a Facebook post on Thursday he had spoken with Australias Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack about the move.

"Like Brunei and New Zealand, Vietnam and Australia have also very successfully controlled the spread of the COVID-19 virus," he said.

"We will hence lift border restrictions for visitors from Vietnam and Australia (excluding Victoria)."

Mr Ong said visitors would have to apply for an air travel pass and undergo a COVID-19 test upon arrival, with those registering a negative result not required to serve a "stay-home notice".

Singapore will allow visitors from Australia from next week. Source: AAP

"I spoke to Mr Michael McCormack ... (and his Vietnamese counterpart) earlier today. They were appreciative of Singapore's decision and when conditions are right, I believe they will consider reciprocating the lifting of restrictions to travellers from Singapore."

ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr told AAP he would support a travel bubble between Canberra and Singapore.

"Yes, provided all of the COVID-safe protocols are in place," Mr Barr said on Thursday.

A month ago, Singapore lifted its border restrictions to allow visitors from Brunei and New Zealand.

Since then 136 visitors have entered Singapore, all of whom have tested negative upon arrival.

At present, Australians are not allowed to travel overseas unless the traveller has an exemption from the Department of Home Affairs.

There are also caps on the number of passengers coming into Australian airports from overseas.

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.
The sequel will air on October 23 on Amazon Prime

The new teaser for the long-awaited trailer was released on Thursday

It included risque depictions of the character impersonating Donald Trump, calling Harry Potter a 'sex offender' and trying to get his daughter an abortion

The sequel is titled Borat: Gift of Pornographic Monkey to Vice Premiere Mikhael Pence to Make Benefit Recently Diminished Nation of Kazakhstan

The new poster pokes fun at rulings over wearing a face covering

The name suggests that Pence will be a target, who appears in the trailer, while former New York City mayor Rudy Giuliani will also make an appearance

The original 2006 film featured Cohen playing his Borat character, which he first debuted on his hit TV series Da Ali G Show

There were first hints that a sequel was happening in August, when Cohen was spotted in his iconic Borat suit driving in an old pickup truck

Sacha Baron Cohen proved himself to be as wild as ever in the incredibly controversial trailer for the Borat 2 sequel.

The hilarious new teaser for the long-awaited trailer was released on Thursday, with risque depictions of the character impersonating Donald Trump, calling Harry Potter a 'sex offender' and trying to get his daughter an abortion.

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The Kazakh character claims to have impregnated his offspring in the clip before later going to a gun shop and making some new friends, who claim the Democratic party are more dangerous than coronavirus.

Borat pictured dressing up as Trump for his political prank in the film

The sequel is titled Borat: Gift of Pornographic Monkey to Vice Premiere Mikhael Pence to Make Benefit Recently Diminished Nation of Kazakhstan.

In typically explosive fashion, the character is seen mingling among Americans in most shocking and extreme style as he touches down in the US.

Click here to resize this module

With his daughter in tow, Borat heads to a rally with Vice President of the United States, Mike Pence, in attendance, where the character slips into a very realistic Trump costume much to the outrage of the fellow attendees.

Carrying his daughter over his arm as he storms through the rally, Borat dressed as U.S. President Donald Trump exclaims: 'I've brought the girl for you!' with Pence glaring on stage at the camera.

Oh no! The hilarious new teaser for the long-awaited trailer was released on Thursday, with risque depictions of the character impersonating Donald Trump, calling Harry Potter a sex offender and trying to get his daughter an abortion (pictured)

Controversial: In typically explosive fashion, the character is seen mingling among Americans in most shocking and extreme style as he touches down in the US

Elsewhere during the trailer, the character decides to get a disguise after he is too recognisable to the public and he goes to a costume shop.

Looking at the outfits on display, Borat asks if Harry Potter is a 'sex offender' after being shown the wizard's costume and he purchases a fat suit, where he says: 'I take this to be fat like American man.'

Another controversial part of the advert sees Borat's daughter purchase a blue cupcake with a plastic toy baby on it, no doubt used as a celebration for showers or births.

But after the character accidentally eats the figure, Borat rushes his daughter to a pastor in a medical room with an ultrasound device in the background.

Pence is seen giving Baron Cohen an angry glare for the interruption, about ten minutes into his speech at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in Maryland

The hilarious trailer to Borat 2 released Thursday reveals Sacha Baron Cohen was the Trump impersonator who crashed Mike Pences CPAC speech in February. Baron Cohen pictured in a Trump mask and suit with his daughter in the movie over his shoulder shouting, 'Michael Pennis Ive brought the girl for you!'

His daughter says: 'I have a baby inside me' to which Borat asks for an abortion and demands: 'Can you take it out?'

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The pastor is left outraged as he retorts: 'No we cannot! That's not what we do here.'

With things taking an even more controversial turn when Borat says: 'I feel bad because I was the one who put the baby in her. Did you ever put one in your daughter?'

Elsewhere during the trailer, the character decides to get a disguise after he is too recognizable to the public and he goes to a costume shop, where he asks if Harry Potter is a 'sex offender'

In the trailer Borat travels to the US and purchases a fat suit, saying: 'I take this to be fat like American man.'

More controversy: Another controversial part of the advert sees Borat's daughter purchase a blue cupcake with a plastic toy baby on it, which she inhales, they then take her to see an outraged pastor and ask for him to remove the baby as Borat 'put the baby in her'

Leaving the pastor even more stunned, he remarks: 'No I did not!'

The trailer also takes a more topical turn when Borat asks to quarantine with a complete stranger outside a shop at the height of the coronavirus lockdown crisis.

Wearing a thong at the man's home and dancing, Borat asks: 'What's more dangerous... this virus or democrats?' to which the person and his friend both reply: 'Democrats!'

Borat then tries to kill the coronavirus with a hammer on the wall, to which the man explains you 'can't see it' and instead encourages him to spray Covid with an anti-bac spray.

Quarantine! The trailer also takes a more topical turn when Borat asks to quarantine with a complete stranger outside a shop at the height of the coronavirus crisis

'Dangerous Democrats': Wearing a thong at the man's home and dancing, Borat asks: 'What's more dangerous... this virus or democrats?' to which the person and his friend both reply: 'Democrats!'

Prior to the trailer release, Sacha posed for an extremely risque poster for the upcoming Borat 2 movie, ahead of its release on October 23 on Amazon Prime.

In a nod to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, Sacha donned a face covering in place of the character's now-iconic, neon green mankini.

The highly-anticipated sequel to the actor's wildly successful 2006 comedy Borat, will premiere on Amazon after bosses bought the worldwide rights to the film and the new poster boasts the slogan: 'Wear mask. Save live'.

Like father, like daughter: In a different scene, Borat takes his daughter to get an evening gown where she mistakes the clear protection bag as a dress

There were first hints that a sequel was happening in August, when Cohen was spotted in his iconic Borat suit driving an old pickup truck.

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Earlier this month, Collider reported the Borat sequel has already been filmed, and even screened for unspecified industry types, after the crew resumed production as soon as coronavirus restrictions were eased.

Deadline reports Sacha 'risked his life' while filming and had to wear a bulletproof vest on two different shooting days.

Ahem! Prior to the trailer release, Sacha posed for an extremely risque poster for the upcoming Borat 2 movie, ahead of its release on October 23 on Amazon Prime

Shocker! The green mankini worn by the character became a pop culture favourite and is often spotted being used as a fancy dress costume (pictured in 2006)

MailOnline has contacted the comedian's representatives and Amazon for comment.

While the title has yet to be confirmed with any official marketing materials, it does fall in line with the full title of the original film: Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan.

The name suggests that Pence will be a target, while former New York City mayor Rudy Giuliani will also make an appearance.

He's back! The highly-anticipated sequel to the actor's wildly successful 2006 comedy Borat, will premiere on Amazon after bosses bought the worldwide rights to the film and the new poster boasts the slogan: 'Wear mask. Save live' (pictured in 2006)

The title also insinuates that Pence has ties to Russia, calling him 'Mikhael Pence' instead of Mike Pence, and giving him the Russian title of Vice Premiere instead of Vice President.

The original 2006 film featured Cohen playing his Borat character, which he first debuted on his hit TV series Da Ali G Show.

Borat was a TV reporter from Kazakhstan, who was sent to America with his producer Azamat (Ken Davitan).

While Borat is sent to report on the American way of life, he quickly becomes obsessed with the old TV series Baywatch, as he begins a quest to find and marry star Pamela Anderson.

Return: The film became a cult classic after its release in 2006

The now-deleted Writer's Guild of America post also revealed that several different writers worked on the Borat sequel script.

The screenplay is credited to Sacha Baron Cohen, Anthony Hines, Dan Swimer, Peter Baynham, Erica Rivinoja, Dan Mazer, Jena Friedman, and Lee Kern with story by Sacha Baron Cohen, Anthony Hines, Dan Swimer, and Nina Pedrad.

Hines, Baynham and Mazer all got screenplay credit on the original Borat movie, with Cohen, Baynham, Hines and Todd Phillips getting story credit.

Swimer, Kern and Hines have worked with Cohen on his hit Showtime series This Is America, while Rivinoja wrote for South Park and worked on movies such as Girls Trip, Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs and Trolls.

Friedman had written for Late Night with David Letterman and The Conners, while also acting in films like Palm Springs, while Nina Pedrad has written on 30 Rock, New Girl and Will & Grace.

Sequel: There were first hints that a sequel was happening in August, when Cohen was spotted in his iconic Borat suit driving an old pickup truck (pictured in 2006 film still)

Larry Charles directed the first Borat movie, though it isn't clear if he directs the sequel.

In the 2006 film, that earned an Oscar nomination for best adapted screenplay, it follows the character Borat around the U.S. as he makes a 'documentary' about life there and attempts to marry Pamela Anderson.

At the time of release, Kazakhstan banned the film from being shown and the sales of DVD. They also threatened to sue the controversial actor.

Yet in 2012, Foreign Minister Yerzhan Kazykhanov thanked Sacha for increasing tourism to the country following the spoof film.

In 2018, during the midterm elections in the U.S., he reprised Borat in a social media post to encourage voting.

He wrote: 'I voted, Great Success' while holding someone else's identification card with an 'I've voted' sticker affixed to his suit.

Sacha also filmed a spoof campaign video supporting Donald Trump in an election special broadcast of 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!'

The skit saw the bumbling Kazakh journalist vowing to tamper with the electorate's midterm elections, declaring 'it's up to Kazakhstan to swing the election for Premier Trump' and knocking over a 'polling place' sign.

In one scene, having been invited into the home of a Trump supporter, he asks: 'Who are the fake news who say that [Trump] is not a racist?'

The man replies: 'In my opinion the fake news people say he is a racist and I don't believe he is, I don't see any evidence of that.'

Quite the character: The original 2006 film featured Cohen playing his Borat character, which he first debuted on his hit TV series Da Ali G Show

A confused Borat replies: 'But what is the problem being a racist? I am a racist, it is nice.' The man disagrees.

The actor was also seen in a disguise earlier this summer at a political event in Washington in June.

The rally's organiser Matt Marshall said he could tell it was Cohen through the 'obvious disguise' the performer was donning when he took to the stage to sing.

'Like a fake nose and chin,' he told NPR. 'And he starts playing and the first thought when you hear his voice is, "Dude, is this like a bad impression of Borat?"''

The appearance sparked speculation Cohen was filming the Showtime series Who Is America?, though Cohen said he was only going to do the one season of the variety show.

Many writers: The now-deleted Writer's Guild of America post also revealed that several different writers worked on the Borat sequel script

'It's like The Ali G Show in England,' he said, speaking with The Hollywood Reporter in 2018. 'I did one season. And the idea is not to make it a Seinfeld or a Saturday Night Live.'

Cohen told the outlet last year that he 'was upset by' Donald Trump getting elected president, spurring him to create the political satire.

'That anger and disappointment and revulsion, I was expressing it by sort of sending friends emails, you know, sharing articles,' he said.

'And in the end, I felt I was so angry, I felt I actually have to channel that into some characters who could expose some of those people. I wanted to sit with those people who were his friends.'

Sacha's film Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan was a huge success when it was released in 2006, raking in $261 million worldwide. The film also made 'mankinis' famous after Borat wore one at the beach.

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He also picked up a Golden Globe Best Actor in a Motion Picture award for his comedy performance.

Banned: At the time of release of the firs Borat, Kazakhstan banned the film from being shown and the sales of DVD. They also threatened to sue the controversial actor (pictured in 2018)
Weak prospects for tourism, investment, and remittance inflows will continue to dampen Egypts growth performance, Fitch said

Egypts growth is expected at 3.4 percent during the current fiscal year (FY) 2020/2021 despite vulnerabilities, said Fitch Solution, a provider of credit and macro intelligence.

Fitch made the announcement during a virtual panel on Thursday to release its Country Deep-Dives, A Closer Look At Growth Prospects In the GCC States and Egypt report.

Weak prospects for tourism, investment, and remittance inflows will continue to dampen Egypts growth performance, Fitch added.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) loan Egypt received due to the COVID-19 crisis and eurobond issuance are expected to support the countrys external position, though risks of renewed volatility persist, the company said.

In May, Egypt received a one-tranche loan worth $2.4 billion from the IMF under the rapid finance instrument to address the repercussions of the pandemic.

In June, the IMF gave Egypt $2 billion, which was the first tranche of a $5.2 billion loan under a 12-month stand-by agreement. The remainder will be disbursed over two reviews in December 2020 and June 2021.

According to Fitch, mobility data shows that the worst phase of the pandemic is over and that retail, recreation, grocery, pharmacy, transit stations and work places have started to rebound after a deep reduction in May.

Purchasing manager index and Google mobility data point to widespread disruption to local activity in the second quarter of 2020, though conditions are now easing, Fitch added.

An aggregate real GDP growth of 3.5 percent is forecast for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region in 2021, following a contraction of 5.1 percent in 2020, Fitch said, stressing that the global economy will rebound in 2021, while MENA is likely to underperform.

Discussing large oil producing countries, Fitch said Iran accounts for a large share of the gains projected for 2021 in light of the expectations that US presidential candidate Joe Biden will win in the November elections, resulting in sanctions relief for the Islamic republic.

The outlook for other oil producers appears sluggish, as only moderate oil price increases are likely to result in limited oil output growth and continued fiscal restraint, according to Fitch.

Concerning other countries in the region, limited policy flexibility coupled with social and political instability are weighing on prospects for a post-coronavirus recovery, it added.

Fitch's head of MENA Country Risk Andrine Skjelland said the US elections could shift US policy towards MENA in 2021 in case Biden won. He will probably introduce more conditionality to US partnerships with Arab states, but is likely to avoid causing major rifts with key allies in the region.

Biden would be highly reluctant to get the US involved militarily in MENA conflict zones. Conversely, should Trump secure re-election, then he would likely continue his maximum pressure campaign against Iran, while maintaining his steadfast support for Arab state allies and Israel, said Skjelland.

In reply to Ahram Online regarding the effects of a likely second wave of COVID-19 on the regions economic activity, including Egypt, Skjelland noted that it depends on finding a vaccine, especially that infections have increased recently.

She added that Egypt was the first country in the region to implement pre-emptive and precautionary measures to mitigate the impact of the coronavirus on the economy and people's lives.

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Lin Wood, an attorney for Kyle Rittenhouse, said he is suing Democratic nominee Joe Biden and the Biden and Kamala Harris campaigns for libel.

Wood's tweet was posted following a video tweeted by Biden showing a montage of white pride groups, and Trump's refusal to condemn them on the debate stage Tuesday.

In the video, there is a photo of Rittenhouse who was armed with a Smith & Wesson AR-15-style.

"On behalf of Kyle Rittenhouse, I shall sue @JoeBiden & Biden/Harris Campaign for libel," Wood tweeted.

Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

Related: Fox anchor slams colleague for justifying Kenosha shooter

An attorney who said he is representing Kyle Rittenhouse, the teenager accused of killing two protesters in Kenosha, Wisconsin, announced on Twitter that he will be suing Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden for libel.

Lawyer L. Lin Wood tweeted his plans several hours after Biden tweeted a 50 second video calling out President Donald Trump's ambiguous response when asked to condemn white supremacists at Tuesday's debate. The debate footage is spliced into a montage of footage of white pride groups around the country.

Rittenhouse, who faces murder and assault charges, was also featured in the video.

Wood tweeted his support for Trump, and announced that he plans to sue for libel.

"On behalf of Kyle Rittenhouse, I shall sue @JoeBiden & Biden/Harris Campaign for libel. I am partisan in 20/20 supporting @realDonaldTrump. I am non-partisan trial lawyer who aggressively pursues truth to achieve justice," he wrote. "Put in your hearing aid, Joe. You will hear footsteps."

Rittenhouse, who has become a symbol for the right, faces multiple charges including first-degree intentional homicide and first-degree reckless homicide, as well as a misdemeanor charge of possession of a deadly weapon.

Story continues

The 17-year-old drove to Kenosha from his home in Antioch, Illinois to protect local businesses from looting amid unrest ignited by the police shooting of Jacob Blake. Rittenhouse, who is seen in a video firing an AR-15 style rifle into a crowd of people, is accused of fatally shooting protesters Joseph Rosenbaum and Anthony Huber and injuring Gaige Grosskreutz on Aug. 25.

Wood, a vocal right-wing attorney, has a history of working high profile and first amendment cases.

He represented Richard Jewell, a one-time suspect in the 1996 summer Olympics bombings; former Trump campaign adviser Carter Page; and Mark and Patricia McCloskey, the St. Louis couple who aimed guns at Black Lives Matter protesters in their neighborhood.

Messages left for Wood and the Biden campaign were not immediately returned Thursday morning.

Read the original article on Insider
The district administration in Hathras has imposed in the area and has banned the entry of all 'outsiders' including media persons, in the Boolgarhi village where the 19-year-old Dalit girl was gang-raped and died later.

District Magistrate Praveen Lakshkar said that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) , set up to probe the incident, had reached the village and was interacting with the family and other people to record their statements.

"They do not want any disturbance and hence, all entry of outsiders has been stopped," he said.

The District Magistrate further said that he had no information of Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Vadra reaching Hathras to meet the bereaved family.

--IANS

amita/rs

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Art Museum of Southeast Texas celebrates Texas art old and new with the opening of two new exhibits Saturday.

From the Vault: Tyler Museum of Art showcases a early Texas paintings and works on paper from the East Texas museums permanent collection. A highlight of the exhibit are works by early Texas artist and educator Coreen Mary Spellman (1905-1978).

The exhibit runs in conjunction with From the Vault: Art Museum of Southeast Texas, which is currently on view at the TMA.

The second exhibit opening Saturday, Perspectives: Selections from the Permanent Collection, presents works from the downtown museums permanent collection, including recent acquisitions.

AMSET, which will soon celebrate its 70th anniversary, has grown its permanent collection from 200 to nearly 2,000 pieces. The focus of the collection is on contemporary Texas artists, as well as regional and Mexican folk art.

This annual introspective exercise gives visitors a chance to see the breadth of the museum collection. The exhibition also will spotlight works from the John Gaston Fairey Collection of Mexican Folk Art.

Both exhibits will be on view through Feb. 28, 2021 in the main galleries.

Also currently on view is No Solid Surface. Brandi Hamiltons photography is filled with wonder and awe and reflects 20 years spent in the United States Air Force. The latest in AMSETs Cafe Arts Series, the exhibit will be on view through Nov. 15.
Rohm Semiconductor Wolfram Harnack becomes head of Europe 1. Oktober 2020, 14:57 Uhr | WEKA Fachmedien Newsdesk, GS

Headquarters of Rohm Semiconductor in Kyoto, Japan.

Rohm Semiconductor Europe has appointed Wolfgang Harnack as Managing Director. He thus returns to Rohm after five years with Mitsubishi Electric Europe.

As of October 1, 2020, Wolfram Harnack is the new managing director of Rohm Semiconductor Europe GmbH based in Willich-Munchheide.

He reports directly to the President of the company Toshimitsu Suzuki. The position has been newly created and is of strategic importance for ROHM's growth within Europe. Previously Wolfram Harnack held the position of the President of the European Semiconductor Division at Mitsubishi Electric Europe.

For Wolfram Harnack it is in fact a return to ROHM, as he joined ROHM as Sales Director in January 2008. Prior to that he worked for Toshiba Electronics Europe for 12 years. In 2015 Wolfram Harnack left ROHM and joined Mitsubishi, but now he decided to take on a new challenge: He returns with impressive success achieved under a different flag, to now set the course for ROHMs future in Europe: Together with Toshimitsu Suzuki, my mission is to further accelerate our growth in the Automotive and Industrial segment, particularly in the Power and Analog domain which is the Company Focus. Im confident that I can contribute to the success of ROHM Europe with my experiences but more importantly, with my passion, explains Wolfram Harnack: ROHM's target is to significantly grow sales outside of the Japanese domestic market. The European region will play an important role in accomplishing this objective. Being a technology leader in power semiconductors, I see great growth potential for ROHM in the automotive and industrial sectors.

Wolfram Harnack has spent most of his working life in Japanese companies, demonstrating his enthusiasm and understanding of this culture. He holds a degree in Electrical Engineering.

We are happy that we were able to win back Wolfram. Many things have changed since hes been with us in the 2000s, but he will see many familiar faces and surely set many new accents. Especially his wealth of experience in the power semiconductor sector will be a great enrichment for us, affirms Toshimitsu Suzuki, President of ROHM Semiconductor GmbH.

Wolfram Harnack is the new Managing Director of Rohm Semiconductor Europe: Together with Toshimitsu Suzuki, my mission is to further accelerate our growth in the Automotive and Industrial segment, particularly in the Power and Analog domain.

Turnover of 3.326 billion US dollars with 22.000 employees

Rohm Semiconductor is a global company of 3.326 billion US dollars per March 31st, 2020 with 22,191 employees. The company develops and manufactures a very large product range from the Ultra-Low Power Microcontroller, Power Management, Standard ICs, SiC Diodes, MOSFETs and Modules, Power Transistors and Diodes, LEDs to passives components such as Resistors, Tantalum Capacitors and LED display units, thermal Printheads. The production of our high performing products is taking place in state-of-the-art manufacturing plants in Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines and China.

LAPIS Semiconductor (former OKI Semiconductor), SiCrystal GmbH and Kionix are companies of the ROHM Semiconductor Group.

ROHM Semiconductor Europe has its Head Office near Dusseldorf serving the EMEA region (Europe, Middle East and Africa).
An Afghan refugee is not entitled to family reunification here with his third wife because she is not a "spouse" under Irish law as the marriage was polygamous when entered into, the Court of Appeal has ruled.

Ms Justice Aileen Donnelly upheld a decision by the Minister for Justice the marriage was not valid or recognisable by the State, with the effect his third wife was not his "spouse" within the meaning of the Refugee Act 1996.

The man married his first wife in Afghanistan in 2001 and she died there in 2012 while he was seeking refugee status here.

While awaiting the outcome of his application, he entered into a marriage here in 2013.

While that marriage was still subsisting, he entered into a polygamous marriage later in 2013 in Pakistan. That third marriage was lawfully conducted and recognised by the law of Pakistan.

After getting refugee status in 2016, he sought family reunification for a number of family members, including his third wife. At the time of the reunification application, he was still married to his second wife but they have since divorced.

A core claim in his case was that his third wife was his "spouse" within the meaning of family reunification provisions of section 18 of the 1996 Refugee Act.

After the High Court rejected his challenge to the Minister's refusal to permit him bring his third wife here, he appealed.

In a judgment published this week, the three judge COA dismissed the appeal.

Ms Justice Donnelly held the High Court correctly ruled the Minister was precluded, arising from two Supreme Court judgments in the HAH case addressing issues concerning polygamous marriage, from recognising the third marriage.

Irish law did not recognise the man's marriage to his third wife because it would be contrary to public policy and the Minister correctly held the third marriage remains polygamous despite the man's second marriage having ended.

The Supreme Court judgments in HAH expressly permit the Oireachtas to make public policy decisions in relation to recognition of foreign marriages for general or specific purposes, she said.

The Supreme Court had stated it would be preferable for the Oireachats to act in determining the precise rules for such recognition but, in the absence of those, the courts have to deal with the issues of public policy raised, she said.

In this case, the COOA had to determine if "spouse" in section 18 includes a person who became the refugee's spouse at a time when the refugee was already in a valid and subsisting marriage, that is, who became a spouse by entering into an actually polygamous marriage. In light of the HAH judgments, the answer to that was a "straightforward No".

While the man argued, because his third marriage is now in fact monogamous, it is recognised in Irish law, the reasoning of the Supreme Court makes clear that an actually polygamous marriage is void "ab initio" [from the start].

The ordinary and natural meaning of spouse would mean a spouse as understood and recognised by Irish law, she said.

There is no change in the legal and factual context since the Supreme Court's HAH judgments that requires the courts to make a different assessment concerning whether public policy requires such marriages be recognised, she added.

The judge stressed, simply because the man has no automatic right to family reunification with his third wife, that does not mean he has no right to reside with her here.

He has applied for a determination under the Irish Humanitarian Assistance Programme, is entitled to a decision on that and she expected the appropriate decision makers would take all relevant matters into consideration.
CODE is to Create an Outstanding Digital Environment for the young generation so that they generate employment and provide opportunities in future, rather than waiting to grab them. HT Codeathon equips the learners with 21st century skills. Growth and inventions are perennial and so is modernisation.

In this new normal where technology has revolutionised lives forever, the students new leisure pursuit is tech-craft. They are always in search of new avenues to break the monotony and stagnation which this pandemic has caused. This is where HT Codeathon emerges as a liberator which provides an ideal platform to the young net-wizards to prepare for a tech-enabled future, thereby steering their lives towards success, in the real sense. To cater to their requirements, ASN Senior Secondary School, with HT Codeathon, augments the students skills and helps them to metamorphose into adept cybernauts. Our motive is to fuel the desire and determination of the students to transform them into illuminating flambeaus. I believe that the Codeathon equips them with a user-friendly virtual interface which ignites their ability to think out of the box, develop problem solving, critical thinking, logic building skills and enhance their abilities in coding. It helps students learn to develop apps, games, websites and solutions to the problems in an interactive way.

I see it as a great initiative by HT and even greater opportunity for the students to explore new horizons and achieve the zenith of success. I congratulate Team HT for taking the initiative of equipping the learners with 21st Century skills through this exclusive platform.

Swarnima Luthra , Principal , ASN Senior Secondary School, Mayur Vihar (HT Photo)

Swarnima Luthra , Principal , ASN Senior Secondary School, Mayur Vihar

Basic need of education

The fast-paced world of technology has revolutionised lives. We are more dependent on technology today at this point of the pandemic. Access to computers and internet has become the basic need of education. In these times, HT has given students a much-needed platform through HT Codeathon which is all about nurturing three Cs: Creativity, Cognitive skills and Constructive learning. The diligently designed learning modules allow students to learn at their own pace and help them evolve into members of an adaptive, future ready generation. I wish HT the best of luck for empowering students and teachers with the newest ways to engage in the 21st century concepts of learning.

Sushma Kalia , coordinator, ASN Senior Secondary School, Mayur Vihar (HT Photo)

Sushma Kalia , coordinator, ASN Senior Secondary School, Mayur Vihar

We appreciate HT for launching Indias first-of-its-kind coding initiative, HT Codeathon, which encourages students to learn and showcase computational & analytical skills in this tech-run world. This initiative motivates students to utilise their online time in demonstrating their programming skills in various programming languages through a single platform. They can develop their own websites , games etc. and can become coding experts.

Shweta Verma, Teacher , Bal Bharati Public School, Manesar (HT Photo)

Shweta Verma, Teacher , Bal Bharati Public School, Manesar

Amid the challenging Covid-19 times, HT Codeathon has given us a platform to utilise our time to learn various computing programmes like  Scratch basics, HTML, CSS, Java Script, etc. We can learn to make our own websites through this amazing platform. It is wonderfully designed to help us become the future coding champions.

Avishi Gotam, Class 8, ASN Senior Secondary School, Mayur Vihar (HT Photo)

Avishi Gotam, Class 8, ASN Senior Secondary School, Mayur Vihar
The body of a teenager who disappeared after going swimming in a popular rock pool has been pulled from the water.

Emergency crews rushed to Mermaids Pool in Tahmoor, south west of Sydney at about 1.40pm on Thursday.

Authorities were told an 17-year-old swimmer didn't resurface after jumping into a rock pool.

Rescuers (pictured) have found the body of a teenager who disappeared after jumping into a rock pool in Mermaid Pools in Tahmoor

The teenager's body was found submerged in the water by rescuers at about 6.15pm.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.

Paramedics, fire and rescue authorities and police divers were on hand looking for the missing teen.

His friends watched on as rescuers scaled the rocks near the swimming hole during their search.

Police divers, ambulance and fire and rescue authorities aided in the search at the popular swimming hole (pictured)

The tragedy comes the day after a 17-year-old boy drowned at an unpatrolled beach on the New South Wales mid north coast.

The teenager got into difficulties while swimming with his family at Diamond Beach near Hallidays Point, around 104km south of Port Macquarie, at 1pm on Wednesday.

Police pulled him from the water and started CPR, before paramedics arrived at the scene and took over but he was unable to be revived and died at the scene.

The tragedy happened at the same beach where a man, 38, drowned after getting caught in a rip earlier this year.

Around 248 people drowned in Australian waterways in 2019-20, according to the latest Royal Life Saving data released earlier this month.

Of those who drowned, 80 per cent were male.
Washington, Oct 1 : US President Donald Trump and Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden were tied in the state of South Carolina, where the incumbent leader had previously held a 10-point over his rival.

The Quinnipiac poll released on Wednesday found Trump at 48 per cent and Biden at 47 per cent among likely voters in South Carolina, down from the President's 6-point advantage in the same poll from two weeks ago, reports The Hill news website.

South Carolina voters are evenly divided on the President's handling of the Covid-19 pandemic and the economy.

Forty-nine per cent viewed Biden favourably and unfavourably by 46 per cent., while the President revceived a 48-48 split on favourability.

According to CBS/YouGov poll released on Sunday, Trump and Biden were also neck-and-neck in the swing states of Georgia and North Carolina.

In Georgia 47 per cent of likely voters support Trump, versus 46 per cent for Biden, while in North Carolina, 48 per cent of likely voters supported the former Vice President, versus 46 per cent for the President.

Meanwhile, an NBC News-Marist poll also released on Sunday found Biden leading Trump in two other swing states of Wisconsin and Michigan.

Last month, the CBS News Tracker revealed that the states of Florida and Texas remain tight battlegrounds in the November 3 presidential election, reports Politico news.

In the 2016 election, Trump won both the states.

No Democratic presidential candidate has won Texas since Jimmy Carter in 1976.

Also late last month, an NBC News/Wall Street Journal poll showed Biden ahead of Trump nationally by a margin of 51 per cent to 43 per cent.

In 12 battleground states, including Florida but not Texas, the former Vice President's lead was 51 to 45.

The swing states are Florida, Arizona, Georgia, Iowa, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
You cant put a price tag on education  thats what teachers and librarians want voters to know as Platte County begins mailing out early voting ballots, placing the future of the Bookmobile and library services contract in rural residents hands.

If the ballot item gets enough yes votes and passes, the Bookmobile and library services contract will continue and the county would begin spending approximately $300,000 on them each year.

The funds would come from rural Platte County taxpayers  namely, those not living in Columbus or Humphrey where the countys only public libraries are located  because they are the ones who benefit from those programs.

Voting no means voting to end the Bookmobile and library services contract after the current contract runs out in June 2021.

Several members of the Platte County Board of Supervisors took issue with the ballot language, which asks people to vote for or against a tax of $765,000. Supervisors approved the language in July. It is misleading, they said, because it doesnt clarify that the $765,000 would be spread over three years.

Pat Anderson  the sole member of the Columbus Public Library Board of Directors who represents rural Platte County  has been going door-to-door to speak with residents about the vote.

Last week, she made a 125-mile trip around the county to various convenience and grocery stores, restaurants, bars, post offices and private businesses  anywhere, she said, that will let her post an informational flyer.

Platte Center Elementary School teacher Kim Schmidt has been using the Bookmobile as long as its been around. She was a student in Monroe when the Bookmobile started in 1967 and she still uses it, along with her 85-year-old mother and her 4-year-old grandson.

Jody Jarecki, fellow Platte Center teacher, has a long history with the Bookmobile, too. Her six children used the service regularly growing up, and her kindergarten students still do. Sometimes, she said, they check out their first book at the Bookmobile.

If it was canceled many of our students parents would not be able to take them to the library or would not take them to the library, Platte Center teacher JoAnn Cremers said. Even though they could still go, living in Platte County, they would not get there.

Stephanie Ligenza currently drives the Bookmobile. Before her, it was Karen Hake. The Bookmobile is a mobile offshoot of the Columbus Public Library that has toured Platte Countys rural schools and towns for more than 50 years.

The library services contract between the City of Columbus and Platte County has been around about as long  since 1969  and it makes Columbus Public Library memberships free for all county residents.

Teachers and librarians said students get excited when the Bookmobile comes and that its important to reward that excitement to keep them reading.

If the school library doesnt have the next book in a series and cant buy it, Platte Center Elementary School Librarian Sheri Wessel said she can rely on Ligenza and the Bookmobile to bring it from Columbus.

Rural teachers and librarians also fall back on the Bookmobile to meet the need for class-related reading materials.

Any books that are in the Columbus library, Stephanie can bring those out to my students if we need additional copies, Schmidt said.

The Bookmobile also fills the gap for rural kids during the summer.

When I was in Lindsay or Creston, the kids could walk to the Bookmobile. Their parents didnt have to come home from work and drive them into Columbus to get a book, Hake said.

The library services contract does allow people to access digital library materials and reading tablets are good book replacements, but not every child has reliable access to a digital reading device.

The family might have one, but for the child to have access to it all day is not as likely, Ligenza said.

For those reasons, rural librarians and teachers in Platte County are urging voters to support the Bookmobile and library services contract.

The amount of money that they spend on the Bookmobile is so small in the overall scheme of the taxes that a person has to pay. And I think its well worth their money (if it's) going to something for education thats going to help a vast majority of people, Schmidt said.

Molly Hunter is a reporter for The Columbus Telegram. Reach her via email at molly.hunter@lee.net.

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By Michael Holden

LONDON (Reuters) - Britain considered a plan to send asylum seekers 4,000 miles away to holding centres on its remote overseas territories in the south Atlantic but the idea, described as "ludicrous" by opponents, was later dropped, the Financial Times reported.

According to the paper, the Home Office (interior ministry) considered building migrant processing centres on the volcanic islands of Ascension and St Helena, having looked into how other countries dealt with issues of illegal migration.

However, Home Secretary Priti Patel dropped the plan after officials were consulted on the practicality of shipping the asylum seekers to the locations, the FT said.

"This ludicrous idea is inhumane, completely impractical and wildly expensive," Nick Thomas-Symonds, the opposition Labour Party's home affairs spokesman, said on Twitter.

A Home Office source said Britain had a proud history of offering refuge to those who needed protection.

"Tens of thousands of people have rebuilt their lives in the UK and we will continue to provide safe and legal routes in the future," the source said.

"As ministers have said we are developing plans to reform policies and laws around illegal migration and asylum to ensure we are able to provide protection to those who need it, while preventing abuse of the system and the criminality associated with it," the source said.

There has been a surge in the number of migrants arriving in Britain this year, with media reports suggesting that about 1,500 people travelled across the English Channel in small boats and dinghies in August alone.

In total, there were more than 32,000 asylum applications in the United Kingdom in the year ending June 2020.

The FT said the idea was evidence of the influence of former Australian prime minister Tony Abbott, who was appointed as a UK trade adviser earlier this month. Australia has used offshore detention centres on the Pacific islands of Nauru, and on Manus in Papua New Guinea.

Australia's policies and management of the detention centres have repeatedly been criticised by the United Nations and human rights groups. Asylum seekers intercepted at sea and sent to the camps can never settle in Australia, even if they are found to be genuine refugees.

(Reporting by Michael Holden, editing by Estelle Shirbon)
Greater Noida, Oct 1 : High drama prevailed on Thursday After Uttar Pradesh Police personnel pushed former Congress President Rahul Gandhi on the ground near the Yamuna Expressway and arrested him along with his sister and party General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, while they were walking towards Hathras to meet the family of the rape victim.

Gandhi, along with his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and other senior leaders had left Delhi on Thursday to meet the family of the Hathras rape victim.

However, they began marching towards Hathras after their vehicle was stopped near the Yamuna Expressway.

Later Rahul Gandhi told the media, "Just now police pushed me, lathi-charged me and threw me on the ground. I want to ask, can only (Narendra) Modiji walk in this country? Can't a normal person walk? Our vehicle was stopped, so we started walking." Uttar Pradesh Police Personnel also Gandhi that his sister and he have been arrested as they were marching in an area where section 144 has been imposed.

The section relates to assembly of not more than five people at one place.

Gandhi said that even if Section 144 had been imposed, he will walk alone towards Hathras to meet the family of the rape victim.

Before his arrest, the Congress leaders had a heated exchange with police personnel and asked the grounds on which they were being arrested.

According to Ranvijay Singh, Additional DCP, Gautam Budh Nagar, Rahul Gandhi has been taken into custody and they won't be allowed to go further as the police have a letter from DM Hathras saying that if they visit Hathras, it may disturb the law and order situation in the district.

Also, there is the issue of providing security cover to them.

Rahul Gandhi, along with Priyanka, Randeep Singh Surjewala, Rajiv Shukla and several other top leaders was walking towards Hathras to meet the family of the victims a day after the last rites of the rape victim were allegedly performed during the night in the absence of her family members.

-- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed
Holding hundreds of Armenian national flags and singing Armenian patriotic songs, hundreds of Armenians are gathered in front of the building of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe to express their support to the Armenian Army and its soldiers defending the borders of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh).

Despite the rainy weather, more and more demonstrators are gathering near the PACE.

Gevorg Manukyan, who was an active participant of the events that took place in Yerevan on March 1, 2008 and was a political prisoner after the events, went live on his Facebook page and stated that he and the other participants will submit a letter to the PACE and will hold a march on the streets of Strasbourg.

They are screaming Armenia, Artsakh, We Are Armenians, We Will Win and Aliyev, Erdogan, Terrorists.
Food banks and nonprofits supplying meals and other resources to Americans in need were sent scrambling after President Donald Trump required food aid boxes to include a letter from him  just weeks before the election.

The sudden mandate forced food bank leaders in Ohio to seek legal counsel amid confusion over whether or not distributing the letters along with critical supplies to the countrys poorest citizens would be misconstrued as election activity, according to a new report.

A member of the National Guard who was assisting in the distribution of aid at a food bank in the state asked if his handing out the presidents letter would be an inadvertent violation of the Hatch Act, according to Politico, which forbids federal officials from engaging in political activities while on duty or in uniform.

Lisa Hamler-Fugitt, executive director of the Ohio Association of Food Banks, told the news outlet: In my 30 years of doing this work, I've never seen something this egregious.

With just weeks left until the November vote, Democrats said the president was using the Agriculture Departments Farmers to Families Food Box Program as a vehicle to further his re-election prospects.

After requiring stimulus checks to include his signature, Trump is now requiring that boxes of surplus food contain a letter from him, Chris Lu, former White House Cabinet secretary under President Barack Obama, wrote in a tweet. Its another blatant attempt to buy votes.

Rep. Marcia Fudge (DOh) told Politico the presidents mandate to include a letter with his signature emblazoned on it along with White House letterhead was almost like an escalation in an interview.

She also noted how the administration had previously encouraged the program  which has reportedly sent out over 100 million boxes of food to Americas families in need since May  to include the letters in boxes of aid, while they have now made it a mandate.

Before they were optional, she said. Now they are demanding that they go in every box.

Mr Trump appeared to suggest the federal food aid boxes come directly from him in the letter, writing: As part of our response to coronavirus, I prioritized sending nutritious food from our farmers to families in need throughout America.

However, the Agriculture Department said in a statement to Politico that politics has played zero role in the Farmers to Families food box program and added that the program was purely about helping farmers and distributors get food to Americans in need during this unprecedented time.
First 21 underground holes drilled, totalling 1,425.6 metres of a 42,500-metre drilling program.

High sample assay results on the Beaufor property include 783 g/t Au over 0.2 metres and 293 g/t Au over 0.5 metres.

Four underground drill rigs are currently testing "near-mine" exploration targets.

The drilling program is being supervised by Christian Tessier , P.Geo., Monarch Gold's new Geology Superintendent at the Beaufor Mine.

MONTREAL, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ - MONARCH GOLD CORPORATION ("Monarch" or the "Corporation") (TSX: MQR) (OTCQX: MRQRF) (FRANKFURT: MR7) is pleased to announce the first set of results from its 2020 exploration diamond drilling program on its wholly-owned Beaufor Mine project, 20 kilometres northeast of Val-d'Or. The results include a significant number of high-grade assays, including 783 g/t over 0.2 metres and 293 g/t Au over 0.5 metres.

The Beaufor Mine initially began commercial production in the early 1930's and over the years has produced over 1.1 million ounces of gold. The mine is currently on care and maintenance, which has given Monarch an opportunity to complete a 3D compilation and a program to identify, define and drill targets throughout the mine area. In June 2020, the Corporation initiated a 42,500-metre diamond drilling program to test two types of targets: the areas around historical high-grade intersections near the existing underground infrastructure, and isolated resource blocks, which are typically defined by a single drill intersection. These "near-mine" targets can be tested from the existing underground workings, generally by holes less than 200 metres long. Currently, 275 holes are being drilled at 25-metre centres, and if positive results are received, additional holes will be drilled to allow the zones in question to be converted into reserves and included in a future mine plan.

The drilling program is being overseen by Christian Tessier, P. Geo., hired in July as Monarch's Geology Superintendent for the Beaufor Mine project. Christian has over 10 years of experience as a mine geologist and was Senior Mine Geologist at the Canadian Malartic mine, where he worked for the last nine years. Prior to that, he worked for Richmont Mines for two years, where he was in charge of grade control, face mapping, long-hole stope design and diamond drill hole planning for Richmont's Island Gold Mine. Mr. Tessier has a B.Sc. in Resource Geology from the Universite du Quebec a Montreal.

Assay results have been received for the first 21 holes, representing just 3% of the planned metres of drilling. Seven holes intersected anomalous gold mineralization, which is considered good given the characteristic nuggety-style gold distribution. The best intersections are shown in the table below. Several of the holes have multiple intersections due to the stacked nature of the mineralization. The intersection widths reported are core lengths and high-grade intersections have not been capped, as the vein interpretation and statistics have not been finalized for the zones. The locations of the new mineralized intersections are shown in figures 1, 2 and 3.

"The Beaufor property started production over 87 years ago and has yet to reveal all of its gold potential," said Jean-Marc Lacoste, President and Chief Executive Officer of Monarch. "We plan to identify it with the help of Christian Tessier, our new senior geologist, who has solid underground drilling experience with Canadian Malartic and at Richmont's Island Gold Mine, where he started his career. These new high-grade intersections demonstrate that significant veins and vein extensions still exist. Our ultimate goal is to restart gold production at the Beaufor Mine within 12 to 18 months to take advantage of the very favourable gold market."

Monarch has also been taking advantage of the care and maintenance period at Beaufor to test a new technology, a prototype teleoperation system designed by Meglab (www.meglab.ca), on one of Beaufor's mine Caterpillar shuttle loaders.

"Monarch is always open to testing new technologies that could eventually help us explore and produce more efficiently, at the lowest possible cost," said Mr. Lacoste. "We have achieved outstanding results with Meglab's technology in the past few months, and we think it could prove very useful once operations resume at the mine."

Best results for the Beaufor Mine property, 2020 drilling program (first set of assays):

Hole From (m) To (m) Width* (m) Au (g/t) 20-122-137 7.30 9.35 2.05 3.5 20-122-138 22.40 22.90 0.50 15.8 20-132-55 44.80 68.00 47.40 70.30 2.60 2.30 13.4 7.0 20-133-69 Including 2.60 3.10 99.70 109.95 3.60 3.60 105.80 110.75 1.00 0.50 6.10 0.80 152.0 293.0 1.5 18.1 20-133-70 64.15 102.90 64.35 105.50 0.20 2.60 783.0 11.2 20-151-17 0.00 5.15 5.15 3.3 20-151-20 42.78 43.08 0.30 172.0





* The width shown is the core length. True width is yet to be determined.

Collar coordinates:

Hole number Azimuth () Dip () Length (m) Mine E Mine N Elevation (m) 20-122-137 146 74 22.95 3931 5008 2521 20-122-138 137 47 40.30 3931 5008 2521 20-132-55 328 -49 77.50 2142 3084 2741 20-133-69 45 -64 132.00 3919 4854 2742 20-133-70 69 -47 119.35 3919 4854 2742

Sampling consists of sawing the core into equal halves along its main axis and shipping one of the halves to the ALS Canada in Val-d'Or, Quebec, for assaying. The samples are crushed, pulverized and assayed by fire assay, with atomic absorption finish. Results exceeding 3.0 g/t Au are re-assayed using the gravity method, and samples containing visible gold grains are assayed using the metallic screen method. Monarch uses a comprehensive QA/QC protocol, including the insertion of standards and blanks.

The technical and scientific content of this press release has been reviewed and approved by Christian Tessier, P.Geo., the Corporation's qualified person under National Instrument 43-101.

ABOUT MONARCH GOLD CORPORATION

Monarch Gold Corporation (TSX: MQR) is an emerging gold mining company focused on becoming a 100,000 to 200,000 ounce per year gold producer through its large portfolio of high-quality projects in the Abitibi mining camp in Quebec, Canada. The Corporation currently owns over 315 km of gold properties (see map), including the Wasamac deposit (measured and indicated resource of 2.6 million ounces of gold, which includes proven and probable reserves of 1.8 million ounces of gold), the Beaufor, Croinor Gold (see video), and McKenzie Break advanced projects, the Camflo and Swanson exploration projects, and the Camflo and Beacon mills. It also offers custom milling services out of its 1,600 tonne-per-day Camflo mill.

Forward-Looking Statements

The forward-looking statements in this press release involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Monarch's actual results, performance and achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements expressed or implied therein. Neither TSX nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

SOURCE Monarch Gold Corporation

Related Links

http://www.monarquesgold.com/en/


In my opinion, there is no justification for the strikes that were made from the territory of Azerbaijan on Sunday. This is what President of France Emmanuel Macron declared as soon as he arrived at the EU Summit in Brussels, TASS reports.

According to him, France will do everything possible for rapid cease of the conflict. In my opinion, there is no justification for the strikes that were made from the territory of Azerbaijan on Sunday. I told President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev about this.

As a member of the OSCE Minsk Group, we are acting to resolve the situation and stop the hostilities without any preconditions, as well as for a settlement based on international law and negotiations, he added.
The owner of a hotel in Portrush has said he's "disappointed" at a decision by Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon to refuse planning permission for an extension.

Four applications had been filed by the Adelphi Hotel, including for listed building consent and planning permission for the three-storey extension.

However, Ms Mallon has said she is rejecting the application for the hotel's new extension because it would harm the townscape of Portrush and was not in keeping with the listed building's style.

But she has approved other applications for planning permission and listed building consent for existing development at the site on Main Street.

Owner Mark Holmes had previously been instructed by the planning committee of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council that he needed to reapply for planning permission for earlier work relating to a lift shaft.

But the applications were referred to the department for a ministerial decision after the council's planning committee had approved them.

The department said the council had acted against the advice of the Historic Buildings Unit of the Department for Communities (DfC).

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Mr Holmes told the Belfast Telegraph: "We are very grateful to the minister for her decision to approve the regularisation of the Adelphi in full.

"We are disappointed that our planned expansion which would have created an additional 20 jobs will be disallowed.

"Adelphi Portrush remains open as the number one hotel in Portrush."

The minister said she had given the proposals careful consideration and was satisfied that the contribution to tourism development made by its existing 28 rooms "outweigh the relatively minor visual impacts of the proposal on the listed building".

"However, I consider that the proposed three-storey extension would not be in keeping with the form and design of the listed building and would significantly harm its character and setting and the wider townscape of Portrush.

"In coming to my opinion, I am mindful of the economic importance of growing the tourism potential of Portrush, which can deliver both direct and indirect jobs, and I have sought to balance the need to facilitate this important industry locally, whilst ensuring the protection and environmental stewardship of the best of our built heritage."

The new-build extension would have added 18 bedrooms across three floors at the hotel on 67 to 71 Main Street.

The application for existing development was to regularise the existing structures, which had been built in 2006.

The Department for Infrastructure said it will now issue its decisions to the council and the applicant.

"There is a right to a hearing before the Planning Appeals Commission should either the council or the applicant disagree with the department's opinion," it said.

Mr Holmes bought the property in 1996, when it was called the Windsor Guest House.

But he criticised the involvement of part of the Department for Communities in the process.

Councils were given power over planning applications in 2015.

Mr Holmes said "local expertise" should be used to look after listed buildings.

"The council should have full autonomy in dealing with listed buildings," Mr Holmes said.
OBrien issued his own statement, saying: This campaign is one of the most important and high-profile races in the state. It is my belief that voters deserve to know the substantial differences between the candidates. I am ready and eager to debate Ms. Foxx on the record. After last nights chaotic presidential debate, the voters of Cook County want and deserve nothing less than a real debate on the issues. My Tribune colleague Alice Yin has the details here.
A U.S. Marine Corps KC-130J refueling tanker was able to carry out a safe emergency landing in a field in the vicinity of the airport in Thermal, Calif., on Tuesday after its wing was clipped by an F-35B during a mid-air refueling. The F-35B, which was temporarily at MCAS Yuma for a WTI course, crashed near the Salton Sea in Imperial County.
Amid the declining Covid cases and deaths, Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Thursday ordered lifting of night curfew and end to the Sunday lockdown, while directing the state police chief to strictly enforce wearing of masks and other safety norms.

The limit for marriage functions and funerals has been increased to 100 people, in line with the Centres guidelines, and three people in a car and 50% capacity in buses are allowed, subject to windows being open.

Captain Amarinder Singh directed director general of police Dinkar Gupta to ensure strict adherence to Covid guidelines with immediate action against those violating the mandatory masks condition. There should be no laxity, especially in view of the ongoing paddy procurement operations and the festival season, he said.

HOME SECY, EDUCATION DEPT TO DECIDE ON SCHOOLS

On the issue of reopening schools and educational institutions, which the Centre has left to the states to decide post-October 15 under Unlock 5.0, a decision will be announced after deliberations between the home secretary and the education department.

During a virtual meeting to review the Covid situation, the chief minister took note of the decline in the cases/deaths and said the restrictions imposed earlier by the state government had helped. However, he expressed concern over the increase in cases in rural areas, even though numbers in urban areas were going down.

Captain Amarinder directed chief secretary Vini Mahajan to look into arranging for provision of vitamins to poor Covid patients discharged from hospitals.

POSITIVITY RATE DOWN TO 5.12%

In a brief presentation earlier, the states expert health committee head, Dr KK Talwar, said the positivity rate in the state had come down from 10.85% on September 14 to 5.12% on September 28.

The number of deaths and patients on ventilators had also shown a decline during this period, he said.

The states Covid death rate stands at 2.9% at present, with deaths per million at 112.5%. The recovery rate has gone up to 82.1%.

Health minister Balbir Sidhu, health secretary Hussan Lal and medical education and research secretary Dr DK Tiwari also attended the virtual meeting. 54 Covid patients have been given plasma donation at the three government medical colleges, Dr Tiwari added.
Hyderabad, Oct 1 : Leading global investment bank and financial services company Goldman Sachs will be expanding its presence in India, by setting up in Hyderabad too.

The US-headquartered firm said it has identified Hyderabad as a new location for its global shared services footprint in India.

This is a part of the firm's India location strategy to diversify its geographic presence and enhance talent reach, to support growing global businesses and enhance long-term competitiveness.

The new Hyderabad office will be the second location for Goldman Sachs Services in India, and will complement the Bengaluru office footprint in terms of both the execution and support that it will provide to the firm's businesses globally.

Representatives of Goldman Sachs interacted with Telangana's Industry Minister K.T. Rama Rao on Thursday and explained their plans for Hyderabad.

The minister assured them that the government will provide complete support to the firm in their future ventures.

Sanjoy Chatterjee, Chairman, Goldman Sachs, India, Gunjan Samtani, MD and India Head, Goldman Sachs and Ravi Krishnan, MD and Chief Administrative Officer, Goldman Sachs, India interacted with the minister and top officials.

The new office is expected to commence in the second half of 2021 with about 500 employees, and has potential for future growth. It will leverage the expertise of the existing leadership in the Bengaluru office, while investing in a strong pool of competitive world class local talent.

Key criteria for the new office location included the availability of commercial real estate and housing for employees, a diverse talent pool, quality infrastructure in the city, and support and commitment from the local government.

The Bengaluru Office with over half of its 6,000 employees as engineers, will continue to be a major location for Goldman Sachs in India.
Logo As the healthcare profession continues to experience extraordinary demand, there is an increased need for trained and qualified nurse leaders, said CSU Global Provost and Vice President of Strategic Development, Dr. Karen Ferguson.

Colorado State University Global (CSU Global)the premier provider of high-quality, career-relevant, and affordable educationis proud to announce its Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN), a fully online degree that equips students with the expertise and practical skills needed to advance in their healthcare careers.

Specifically designed for nurses who are looking to advance into leadership roles, the MSN offering provides a flexible degree option that accommodates non-traditional and professional schedules. The curriculum is aligned with the American Association of Colleges of Nursings CCNE Standards and Professional Nursing Guidelines and will address the latest in pharmacology, health assessments, and quality assurance, as well as rapidly evolving technologies around healthcare technology and nursing informatics.

Similar to other CSU Global degree programs, students can choose degree specializations to align with their individual professional goals and personal interests. The MSN specializations include a Leadership and Administration and a Military and Veteran Healthcare option.

As the healthcare profession continues to experience extraordinary demand, there is an increased need for trained and qualified nurse leaders, said CSU Global Provost and Vice President of Strategic Development, Dr. Karen Ferguson. We are proud to offer a customizable and flexible masters degree in nursing that not only fits with the demanding schedules of current healthcare workers but also creates individual pathways to career success, such as through the unique and specialized military and veteran healthcare leadership track. 

Enrollment for this new program is open now, with term starts offered each month. Interested students should contact Enrollment at 800-920-6723 or email enroll@csuglobal.edu to get started. For more information about CSU Globals online Master of Science in Nursing, please visit CSUGlobal.edu/msn.

###

About Colorado State University Global

Colorado State University Global (CSU Global) offers career-relevant programs for modern learners. As the first and only 100% online, fully accredited public university in the United States, CSU Global is focused on student success as its number one priority. Embracing the land-grant heritage as part of the Colorado State University System, CSU Global sets the standard for quality and innovation in higher education through its expert faculty, who are recognized as industry leaders and trained in working with adults in an online learning environment. CSU Global offers accelerated eight-week courses that start every four weeks. Visit CSUGlobal.edu to learn more.


CLEVELAND, Ohio  Shaker Heights officials on Thursday identified the officer under investigation for flipping off protesters during a march before Tuesdays presidential debate in Cleveland.

Cpl. Michael Spuzzillo is on paid administrative leave while the investigation is pending, according to a letter written by Shaker Heights Police Chief Jeffrey DeMuth.

The letter says Spuzzillo will remain on paid leave until the internal investigation is completed.

Spuzzillo was one of hundreds of law enforcement officers who helped Cleveland police, the U.S. Secret Service, FBI and Ohio National Guard provide security for the debate on Tuesday.

Shaker Heights Police Commander John Cole said the results of the investigation will be made public when its completed.

Shaker Heights Mayor David Weiss did not respond to requests for comment, nor did a city spokeswoman.

A driver in a police caravan gave the finger to Black Lives Matter protesters in Cleveland's University Circle neighborhood ahead of the Sept. 29 presidential debate. (Robin Goist, cleveland.com)

The incident happened as some 500 protesters marched in the University Circle neighborhood. Black Lives Matter Cleveland and Black Spring CLE organized the event and march. The protests were entirely peaceful.

As a caravan of armed officers drove near the march on East Boulevard near Hazel Drive, an officer in riot gear driving a Shaker Heights police van extended his arm out of the window gave the middle finger to protesters as he drove past.

A cleveland.com reporter took a video of the incident. The officer drove the third of four police vehicles that went by the march.

A Black Lives Matter organizer criticized the officers actions and Shaker Heights police sent a statement on Wednesday saying that they unequivocally support protesters' rights and codemn actions by police officers that show disrespect to citizens.

Read more from cleveland.com:

Shaker Heights cop on leave after he flipped off protesters marching before presidential debate in Cleveland

Cop who flipped off peaceful protesters during Cleveland presidential debate identified as Shaker Heights officer

Watch police caravan driver outside presidential debate give Cleveland Black Lives Matter protesters the finger

Protests outside first presidential debate in Cleveland remain peaceful despite few tense moments


Operational Update - Reids Dome Project & New Acreage Award

Brisbane, Oct 1, 2020 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Following the exceptional results of the Nyanda-4 gas production test announced last week, where gas flow rates have approached 500,000 scf/d after two months of dewatering, State Gas Limited ( ASX:GAS ) is now actively planning Phase 2 of its exploration and appraisal program for its Reid's Dome Project (PL 231).The Company is well-positioned with funding in place to commence Phase 2 drilling by mid-November this year. The Phase 2 campaign will obtain additional data to secure a significant certified reserves booking and enable field development planning and infrastructure design for early commercialisation of the Nyanda area (shown in Figure 1 below*).Phase 2 of the program will involve drilling and production testing of at least four step out wells from Nyanda-4, with the possibility of two optional additional wells to further delineate gas resources across PL 231. A key objective is to obtain data on appropriate well spacing for field development via monitoring downhole pressures from several nearby wells producing simultaneously. The current production test at Nyanda-4 has been suspended until the new wells have been drilled so that communication with the nearby producing wells can be monitored.Other key data from the new pilot wells to inform design and planning of processing facilities and other major infrastructure will include gas and water flow rates and composition from multiple wells over an extended period (e.g. 6 to 9 months).While Phase 2 will focus on the Nyanda region of PL 231, gas flow rates continue to increase steadily at the Serocold-1 well, with very low water make. Damage to the well bore has limited the depth at which the pump could be placed, resulting in approximately 47% of the targeted coal seams below the pump and unlikely to contribute to this test. The Serocold-1 flow test will shortly be suspended to free up field operations to focus on the new drilling campaign.Rolleston-West - New Gas Acreage Awarded During September 2020State Gas is also undertaking planning for an initial gas well to be drilled within new acreage awarded to the Company in the recent Queensland Petroleum Land Release - proposed Authority to Prospect 2062, ("Rolleston-West"). The proposed well, to be named Rougemont-1, will investigate the highly-prospective and well-understood Bandanna coals in the eastern region of the acreage (shown in Figure 2 below*). The Rougemount-1 well will facilitate down-hole logging to determine coal thickness and depth of seams, along with permeability testing of seams. Subject to these results, the well may also be production tested during the Phase 2 program. The proposed Rougemount-1 will be strategically located within Rolleston-West to be close to State Gas' proposed northern route option for the export pipeline from PL 231 (Reid's Dome).This proposed new well will be the first of several planned over the Initial Work Program for the Rolleston-West acreage, investigating both coal seam gas and conventional targets in the area.Unified Gasfield DevelopmentUnder sole ownership by State Gas, the contiguous acreage areas (Reid's Dome and Rolleston-West) enable the co-ordination and integration of activities under a unified super-gasfield development that will provide economies of scale, efficient operations, and optionality in marketing. The Company holds Pipeline Survey Licence PSL 2049 (refer Figure 2) which includes potential pipeline routes that would conveniently service both Reid's Dome and Rolleston-West via the same corridor. Neither Reid's Dome nor Rolleston-West are restricted by domestic gas reservation requirements.*To view tables and figures, please visit:About State Gas Limited

State Gas Limited (ASX:GAS) is a Queensland-based developer of the Reid's Dome gas field, originally discovered during drilling in 1955, located in the Bowen Basin in Central Queensland. State Gas is 100%-owner of the Reid's Dome Gas Project (PL-231) a CSG and conventional gas play, which is well-located 30 kilometres southwest of Rolleston, approximately 50 kilometres from the Queensland Gas Pipeline and interconnected east coast gas network.

Permian coal measures within the Reid's Dome Beds are extensive across the entire permit but the area had not been explored for coal seam gas prior to State Gas' ownership. In late 2018 State Gas drilled the first coal seam gas well in the region (Nyanda-4) into the Reid's Dome Beds and established the potential for a significant coal seam gas project in PL 231. The extension of the coal measures into the northern and central areas of the permit was confirmed in late 2019 by the Company's drilling of Aldinga East-1A (12 km north) and Serocold-1 (6 km to the north of Nyanda-4).

State Gas is also the 100% holder Authority to Prospect 2062 ("Rolleston-West"), a 1,414 km2 permit (eight times larger than PL 231) that is contiguous with the Reid's Dome Gas Project. Rolleston-West contains highly prospective targets for both coal seam gas (CSG) and known conventional gas within the permit area. It is not restricted by domestic gas reservation requirements.

The contiguous areas (Reid's Dome and Rolleston-West), under sole ownership by State Gas, enable integration of activities and a unified super-gasfield development, providing economies of scale, efficient operations, and optionality in marketing.

State Gas is implementing its strategic plan to bring gas to market from Reid's Dome and Rolleston-West to meet near term forecast shortfalls in the east coast domestic gas market. The strategy involves progressing a phased appraisal program in parallel with permitting for an export pipeline and development facilities to facilitate the fastest possible delivery of gas to market. State Gas' current focus has been to confirm the producibility of the gas through production testing of the wells.
Another 837,000 Americans sought unemployment benefits last week, according to government data released Thursday, a 4% decrease from the week before. As the coronavirus pandemic passed the six-month mark, the numbers showed a labor-market swoon that shows little sign of easing.

Since mid-March, 61.9 million claims have been filed nationally, including more than 8 million in California. The state Employment Development Departments aging systems and inadequate call centers have been so inundated that the agency is refusing to accept new unemployment claims until Tuesday  a pause it hopes will allow time to launch an easier application process.

For months, California has accounted for a quarter or more of national claims while making up only 12% of the U.S. population, so the states pause could affect the data, a significant economic barometer that can move the stock market, for last week and this week. When the state employment agency resumes processing applications next week, the figures could likewise rise, experts said.

Department of Labor economists punted on the issue in Thursdays report, repeating the previous weeks numbers from California in the new report until more meaningful data could be obtained. California saw 226,179 new claims for unemployment in the week that ended Sept. 19.

The break to allow system upgrades is the result of recommendations from a task force assembled by Gov. Gavin Newsom. The group includes Jennifer Pahlka, founder and former executive director of the nonprofit Code for America who has also worked on digital revamps of federal agency software.

Mark Schniepp, founder of the California Economic Forecast, said he expected that when we see the actual numbers from the pause, there will be fewer claims for the past two full weeks of September, and the numbers will blip upward after Tuesday.

Californias effective rate of unemployment based on the weekly numbers is more than 15%, Schniepp said, a level where it has been stuck for the past two months.

California is not progressing in the recovery and is severely lagging in the nation, he said. This is largely because we are nearly the most shut-down state still.

The states new four-tier system for reopening businesses based on county health statistics is agonizingly slow and still very restrictive, he added. Schniepp does not expect things to improve for the rest of the year.

San Francisco Chief Economist Ted Egan said past months jobless numbers hint at a labor market recovery, but unemployment insurance claims continue to point toward bad news. But, he added, because of the stresses the state employment department has been under and the two-week reset, Theres an awful lot of noise in the data.

EDD spokeswoman Loree Levy said the staff will still process existing work to establish new claims, and claims under certain programs will continue to be automatically filed. The agency said when it introduced the two-week reset that those who lose jobs during the period will ultimately not see a delay in payments, because it expects their applications to be dealt with more quickly when processing resumes.

Key to the revamp is a new identity-verification system from ID.me, a McLean, Va., company that has done work for the Department of Veterans Affairs, the California Department of Motor Vehicles and other government agencies. Levy said the ID.me system will verify identities more quickly than the old system, under which 4 out of every 10 claims required manual checking.

The employment department said Thursday it would soon start testing the identity verification tool with individuals who signed up online to be notified when they could apply for benefits, before the official introduction of the new system.

It also introduced a dashboard where the backlog of applicants, defined as those waiting more than 21 days for benefits, could be tracked. As of Wednesday, more than 1 million had some issue with their eligibility that needed to be resolved. The backlog fell by more than 65,000 cases since Sept. 24. The department previously said it could take until January to substantially resolve most pending cases.

Andrew Stettner, a senior fellow at the Century Foundation and an expert on unemployment insurance, said the ID.me system could potentially be a more effective way to combat fraud by organized crime groups that use identity theft. Traditional measures have caused people to be wrongly accused of fraud and slowed claims, without getting to the root of the problem, he said.

Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes

Liz Hafalia / The Chronicle

Paula Manildi had a relatively positive experience with getting her benefits until May. After receiving eight weeks of full unemployment benefits, the self-employed information technology professional in Oakland started getting forms from the state that suggested she might have been overpaid.

With her biggest client, a Berkeley used clothing store, shuttered during the pandemic, Manildi sent messages about hours worked and dollars earned from other jobs to the employment department. She submitted forms in July, hoping she would learn how much she needs to pay back to the state. Months later, she has yet to receive a response.

The state needs money. We know it needs money. How long is it going to take for them to figure it out? Manildi said. Having a gig worker on unemployment is different for them, so they probably dont have a system set up to say: Give me this money back. But until they give me some form of communication, Im scared to fill something out and mess up the works.

I know they cant answer the phone. They get way too many calls. I suppose I could write to them, but to me, thats just a way to get lost in the shuffle.

Now off unemployment and back to creating reports and otherwise supporting her business clients, Manildi, a computer programmer, tries to keep her sense of humor about the state unemployment website that has caused so much anguish during the past six months.

Granted, their website is awful, she said. You press a button, and nothing. Then, you press it again, and it works. Without knowing that you have to press it twice for some stupid reason, it can be frustrating.

Rusty Simmons is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: rsimmons@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @Rusty_SFChron
As part of the relaxed norms under Unlock 5.0, the government has allowed restaurants, bars and food courts to open from October 5. However, there is a caveat. They will have to operate at 50 percent capacity, according to the Mission Begin Again guidelines issued by the State government on September 30.

In Maharashtra, there are 4 lakh restaurants, bars, and eateries. Most have been surviving only on deliveries since June 8, when they were allowed to reopen. Now, after more than six months, dine-in services are being allowed.

Physical distancing, reservations, disposable menus

Although, the Maharashtra Government is yet to issue an official SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) for restaurants and bars, Moneycontrol has accessed a list of protocols to be followed by them.

Among other things, restaurants have been asked to maintain a one-metre distance between tables, said sources. Associations of smaller, Udupi restaurants, have sought a relaxation on the one-metre distance with plexiglass screens to be placed between tables instead.

The protocol encourages guests to make reservations before going to a restaurant, to avoid crowding.

Most restaurants will have disposable menus, a UV-C machine to sanitise crockery, cutlery and glasses, sensor taps at handwashes, and QR codes to make payments.

Heres a look at some of the SOPs to be followed by restaurants and bars:

Protocol on arrival

i. The gate/door of the dining facility has to be opened by an attendant.

ii. Hand sanitisers/ pedal-operated sanitisers should be placed at the entrance and other areas such as washrooms. Guests will be asked to sanitise their hands before proceeding to the seating area.

iii. Namaste to be used as a greeting gesture. Guests to be served by staff wearing protective gear at all times.

iv. Guests should be reminded to sanitise their hands before entering and leaving the dining facility.

v. Guests to be provided necessary protective gear such as gloves and face masks (in case they are not carrying their own) to ensure the safety of other guests and staff.

vi. Markings to be made on the floor to ensure physical distance, wherever required.

vii. Tables to families or a group to be allocated strategically to ensure non-contamination of other guests/areas.

Bar safety measures

i. Bar counters and stools to be sanitised. Bar equipment such as shakers, blenders, mixers and peg measurers to be cleaned.

ii. Ice container trolley to be washed and sanitised.

iii. All bottles of spirits, wines and beers to be sanitised with food-grade disinfectant.

iv. All glassware to be cleaned with hot water and lemon.

v. FSSAI guidelines to be followed by marking dates on recently opened beverages.

Some protocols for the kitchen/food-preparation area

i. Operational kitchens must be sanitised at regular intervals.

ii. Kitchens to plan physical distancing (they will have three zones: 1. Range Critical 2. Non-Range Critical 3. Pre-Preparation area).

iii. Worktables to be realigned in such a manner that staff do not face each other and also maintain physical distance.

iv. Staff to wear protective gear like face masks, chef caps/net caps and face shields. Approximately 100 ppm chlorine to be used while sanitising non-vegetarian items and 50 ppm chlorine while sanitising vegetarian items.

What restaurant owners are saying

This reopening comes as a relief for restaurateurs who were surviving on food deliveries to at least recover some of the losses they incurred during the lockdown.

Most restaurants have now begun preparing to welcome guests from October 5.

Restaurants have started preparing to reopen from October 5. Some may take more time but between October 5-15 all restaurants will reopen, National Restaurants Association of India President Anurag Katriar told Moneycontrol.

Speaking to Moneycontrol, Shivanand Shetty, President of restaurant body AHAR, said: In the best interest and safety of our customers, we have instructed our members to follow the SOPs finalised by the Government. We feel that there is no other way than reopening and adjusting to the new normal. As a responsible industry body, AHAR will support the Government in every step to ensure compliance.

Lite Bite Foods, which operates 30 restaurant brands, including Punjab Grill, TRES, The Artful Baker, Zambar and Asia Seven Express, is also gearing up to welcome guests at its restaurants in Maharashtra.

Deepak Bhatia, Vice-President, Operations, Lite Bite Foods, said: In terms of SOPs, we are ready with all the necessary checks and precautions to serve our guests in a completely safe environment.

Another restaurant owner, Piyush Rathi, who runs restaurants under the banner Vishal/ Gaurav/Prem Residency/Prem Thali in the Vidharbha region, hopes that the government will allow more seating as many had suffered huge losses during the lockdown.
(Natural News) Former astronaut and now Democratic Senate candidate Mark Kelly first attended the annual Young Leaders Forum in 2003 at the invitation of the Chinese government, who shouldered all expenses. The five-day event was co-hosted by the Chinese Peoples Institute of Foreign Affairs, an institute directly under the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

During the retreat, held at a luxury hotel with scenic views of the Chinese countryside, Kelly delivered an hour-long speech about his experience as an astronaut and mingled with party bigwigs. These included future Chinese ambassador to the U.S., Cui Tiankai; former director for economy, Fang Xinghai; and former person-in-charge for foreign propaganda, Zhou Mingwei.

At the close of the 2003 retreat, Kelly returned to the U.S. with profitable Chinese business contracts and a future spouse in tow: former Arizona Rep. Gabby Giffords, who participated in a panel discussion with Chinese politicians during the forum. The former astronaut attended succeeding iterations of the Young Leaders Forum in 2004 and 2005, and he even took a banner advertising the event into space in 2006. Kelly dubbed the experience as one of the absolute highlights in his life  next to flying in space.

Beijing is bribing U.S. politicians through gainful contracts to advance interests

Kellys business relationships with Chinese government officials and businessmen, stemming from the 2003 forum, have recently been thrust into the spotlight  as the former astronaut is now running for a senatorial seat under the Democratic Party.

Aerospace company World View Enterprise, which Kelly co-founded and still had investments in at the time, received funding from Tencent, the Chinese company behind messaging app WeChat. Kelly also served as an adviser for the Colorado-based aviation company Boom Technology, which partnered with Chinese enterprise Trip.com Group Limited.

WeChat drew flak for spying on its users and censoring anti-government posts on the platform, while Trip.com was named as a key player in Chinas Belt and Road Initiative  described by the U.S. government as a security threat.

Republicans have used these links to China as ammunition, launching advertisements accusing him of Chinese dependency. On the other hand, the former astronauts campaign has focused on deflecting these concerns and pointing out dangers from stuff you cant see, referring to covert cyber-warfare strategies.

The former astronaut is running against incumbent Sen. Martha McSally, the first female fighter pilot to fly in combat. He is currently ahead of McSally in the polls by 5.5 points.

You scratch my back; I scratch yours

Part of Kellys agenda during the 2003 Young Leaders Forum was fostering business ties with high-profile CCP officials. According to China analyst Gordon Chang, these party connections are absolutely essential for striking business deals. The [Chinese] Communist Party tries to control everything, whether its a state enterprise or a private company. And so its extremely important to have Communist Party contacts, he said.

Even though Communist Party contacts are necessary to do business in China, venture capitalists in the country are not concerned with pursuing profits; rather, they invest to obtain useful technologies. Heritage Foundation senior research fellow and China expert Dean Cheng explained: The Chinese have this wonderful luxury: If we think this is a technology useful to us, we will fund it, then we will suck it up, and it really doesnt have to make money.

Cheng added that Chinese companies do what theyre told to appease the CCP while making some degree of return for their investment. In return for funding and ease of doing business, Chinese enterprises must give something to the central government to further its interests  whether its data harvested from customers or technologies provided by foreign business partners.

This idea of you scratch my back; I scratch yours also extends into scientific research. In exchange for substantial funding, the Chinese government requires research data from foreign academicians  as in the case of professor Charles Lieber, the former head of Harvard Universitys chemistry department.

A grand jury indicted Lieber in June after he failed to disclose ties with the Wuhan Institute of Technology under Chinas Thousand Talents program while concurrently receiving funding from the Department of Defense and National Institutes of Health.

Under the Thousand Talents program, Lieber received a $50,000 salary every month on top of a $158,000 stipend for living expenses for up to three years. However, scientists who receive federal funding must disclose their collaborations with, and funding received from, other countries. The professor, who specialized in nanochemistry, concealed this fact from authorities  which subsequently led to his indictment.

The Chinese governments plan to obtain scientific research through ties with Lieber may have failed, but it has found a new source: Chinese companies partnerships with American enterprises connected to Kelly.

Find out more news about Chinas attempts to undermine U.S. national security through its ties with private companies at NationalSecurity.news.

Sources include:

FreeBeacon.com 1

RealClearPolitics.com

FreeBeacon.com 2
This is Naked Capitalism fundraising week. 1412 donors have already invested in our efforts to combat corruption and predatory conduct, particularly in the financial realm. Please join us and participate via our donation page, which shows how to give via check, credit card, debit card, or PayPal. Read about why were doing this fundraiser, what weve accomplished in the last year, and our current goal, more original reporting.

Cast Your Votes for Fat Bear Weeks Chunky Champion Smithsonian

Providing decent living with minimum energy: A global scenario Science Direct. Interesting.

Silent witnesses: what do three corpses have to do with a corruption case? FT

FAA administrator flies MAX in next step to recertification Leeham News and Analysis

WTO to Let EU Levy $4 Billion in Boeing/Airbus Dispute Industry Week

California task force will consider paying reparations for slavery Los Angeles Times

Newsom vetoes bill to provide rehiring protections for workers laid off amid COVID-19 pandemic Los Angeles Times. Of relevance:

#COVID19

Epidemiology and transmission dynamics of COVID-19 in two Indian states (PDF) Science. Extremely important. From the Discussion: Our findings provide insight into the epidemiology of COVID-19 in resource-limited populations based on comprehensive surveillance and contact tracing data from the Indian states of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. Our analysis suggests substantial variation in individuals likelihood of transmitting: no secondary infections were linked to 71% of cases whose contacts were traced and tested . While the role of children in transmission has been debated (36, 37), we identify high prevalence of infection among children who were contacts of cases around their own age; this finding of enhanced infection risk among individuals exposed to similar-age cases was also apparent among adults. Here is a summary; and a second summary. And of the same study

Largest COVID-19 contact tracing study to date finds children key to spread, evidence of superspreaders Princeton Environmental Institute. Lead researcher Ramanan Laxminarayan, a senior research scholar in PEI, said that the paper is the first large study to capture the extraordinary extent to which SARS-CoV-2 hinges on superspreading, in which a small percentage of the infected population passes the virus on to more people. The researchers found that 71% of infected individuals did not infect any of their contacts, while a mere 8% of infected individuals accounted for 60% of new infections.

HKU mechanical engineering study reveals airborne transmission of COVID-19 opportunistic in nature and poor indoor ventilation plays a role in transmission (press release) The University of Hong Kong. From July, still germane. Here is a long video on the same topic from the scientist, Yuguo Li:

One in Seven Dire COVID Cases May Result from a Faulty Immune Response Scientific American. A review of the literature.

CDCs credibility is eroded by internal blunders and external attacks as coronavirus vaccine campaigns loom WaPo. Testing, masking, data, and aerosol guidance blunders are not minor. Absent that series of debacles, all of which are systemic, as we say, in origin, the CDC would be in a much stronger position politically, even if the way its being held to account now is extremely ugly. (The article includes the PMC solution, which is, naturally, to insulate PMC performance from accountability in the political realm altogether with a magic board that assures its independence.)

Community Health Workers and Covid-19  Addressing Social Determinants of Health in Times of Crisis and Beyond NEJM

Surviving The Waves Of A Pandemic Storm: How To Fix The Supply Chain Flaws Exposed By COVID-19 Health Affairs

How to fix public health weaknesses before the next pandemic hits WaPo.

The common denominator is an antiquated and unstandardized system of linking data from clinical records and public health monitoring in ways that provide evidence on how to control the virus while minimizing the disruption to the economy and society. Electronic medical records  envisioned as a boon for public-health surveillance, providing data that could be readily analyzed  turn out to be much better for billing than for the exchange of data.

Because of course they did. (On standardized data systems, see NC here and here.)

A time for choosing: Masks or freedom? Twila Brase, Alpha News
OTTAWAThe last heart-wrenching minutes of Joyce Echaquans life and the racist slurs she captured on video took centre stage in Parliament Wednesday.

But the national spotlight brought few answers for a grieving family and a community demanding action and change.

In the Commons, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said all Canadians were shocked by the callous disregard shown to the 37-year-old Atikamekw mother of seven. He called the actions of two unidentified female nursing staff the worst form of racism when she needed the most help.

Trudeau was responding to New Democrat Leader Jagmeet Singh who raised the tragedy of Echaquans death, captured in a Facebook Live video recording she streamed from her hospital bed Monday, and apologized for her suffering.

With her last breath, Joyce Echaquan asked for help, said Singh. This was an Indigenous woman who died at the hospital while the hospital staff ridiculed her. I am very sorry, Joyce, the last moments of your life should not have ended like this.

The only racialized political leader in Parliament challenged Trudeau to pass from empty promises to real action to combat the systemic racism Echaquan faced.

Echaquan documented the nursing staff in Joliette, Que., northeast of Montreal, hurling derogatory insults at her, dismissing her cries of distress. Swearing, they called her stupid as hell, only good for sex and said shed be better off dead.

This is yet another example of systemic racism. It is quite simply unacceptable in Canada, said Trudeau in French.

A rapid investigation is essential to establish if it was more than just simple racist words. We urge Quebec to take quick action and we will do our utmost to eliminate racism where it exists and to support people who are affected.

In Quebec, where Echaquans death prompted vigils and outrage, Premier Francois Legault had already announced two investigations.

On Tuesday Legault said one nurse had been fired, and the Quebecs coroners office and the local health authority are probing what happened.

While the Quebec premier said the nurses comments were totally unacceptable, he denied systemic racism is at play.

I really dont think we have this kind of way of dealing with First Nations people in our hospitals in Quebec, Yes there is some racism in Quebec. Were working on that, said Legault.

Federal Indigenous Services Minister Marc Miller welcomed the quick decision to hold an inquest, but said her death was not an isolated event.

We know this person died in the hands of a racist, Miller tweeted, but we dont know the other conditions or events that occurred off camera. Thats why it is essential that there be a timely, transparent investigation to provide answers as to whether Joyce was subject to more than racist words.

Miller told reporters a day earlier to consider that in British Columbia the health minister called an inquiry in June into revelations that emergency room personnel in that province placed racist and unacceptable bets on the blood alcohol level of Indigenous people before they received treatment.

Miller said many Indigenous communities have a well-founded skepticism towards the health-care system resulting from events like the one weve just seen. This pattern has serious consequences and needs to be eliminated.

Conservative Leader Erin OToole, making his first appearance in the Commons since winning the partys leadership, did not mention Echaquans name but highlighted Indigenous health in his first questions to the prime minister in his role as the leader of the Official Opposition.

Returning after a 14-day isolation period due to his positive COVID-19 diagnosis, OToole focused on systemic gaps in health care, and challenged Trudeau over his inaction in meeting a recommendation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to measure and close the gaps between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities.

The commissions 19th call to action urged Ottawa to publish annual progress reports and to assess long-term needs, focusing on infant mortality, maternal health, suicide, mental health, addictions, life expectancy, birth rates, infant and child health issues, chronic diseases, illness and injury incidence, and the availability of appropriate health services.

Trudeau defended his governments efforts on reconciliation with Indigenous communities, saying it is delivering on clean drinking water, on commitments to introduce legislation on health care, adding he was encouraged to see the Oppositions interest  a barb that later drew a retort from OToole, who underscored the efforts of all governments to address the fallout of residential schools on generations of Indigenous Canadians.

For so many advocates, however, the promises and the political rhetoric are empty.

Lorraine Whitman, President of the Native Womens Association of Canada, said she listened with horror and disgust to the nurses uttering racial slurs rather than going to Echaquans aid.

It makes us wonder how many other Indigenous women are being subjected to this sort of abuse in Quebec and elsewhere in Canada but did not have the courage or ability to film their own distress, said Whitman in a written statement.

She welcomed Quebecs investigation, and hoped the tragedy would spur the province to act on 142 recommendations of the Viens Commission which concluded last year that the province owes Indigenous people an apology for the way they are mistreated by the public service, including in the delivery of health care.

Activist Cindy Blackstock, founder of the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society Cindy Blackstock, tweeted condolences and a blunt conclusion: So sorry for her family. This is what systemic racism looks like and feels like. Implement the Vien Commission!

Echaquans video showed two female hospital staffers entering her room as she moans in pain. They swear impatiently at her. You made bad choices my dear, says one.

What would your children think of you to see you like this, eh? Think of them a bit.

In the Commons, Bloc Quebecois Leader Yves-Francois Blanchet said Without this racist contempt, perhaps Joyce would be still alive.

Blanchet said it wasnt a question of who has jurisdiction, but one of our collective responsibility saying the time for reports and symbolic actions is over, and demanded justice pour Joyce Echaquan.

The Bloc leader later challenged Trudeau to respect health care as a provincial and Quebec jurisdiction and unconditionally transfer increased funds for health care to the provinces.
The potential of the Polish furniture market is best evidenced by the following numbers: 6th place in the world in 2019 in terms of furniture production value, and 2 place in the world (and 1st place in Europe) in terms of furniture export value. This proves that Poland is one of the biggest players on the international furniture market. Compared to other European countries, such as Italy, Germany or France, which are better known in the United States, Polish companies offer an attractive price combined with high quality products and excellent design.

In the context of large turmoil in global supply chains, Polish furniture companies are also reliable trading partners who provide various products, including those particularly valued on the American market: RTA casegoods, solid wood and veneer assembled case goods, stationary and motion upholstery with sofa-bed and high-end design pieces. Polish furniture companies also successfully meet the expectations of American contractors, an excellent example of which is the European Smart Design from Poland project  an initiative of the Polish Chamber of Commerce of Furniture Manufacturers co-financed by the Polish National Foundation. It aims to integrate the Polish furniture industry and promote it on foreign markets, culminating with the launch of a joint Polish showroom during the largest furniture industry fair in the USA  High Point Market.

The European Smart Design from Poland project brings together seven leading Polish furniture companies: Benix, Black Red White, Gala Collezione, Raw, Szynaka Meble, Vzor and Zieta Studio. The Polish showroom will be open to visitors during the High Point Market from October 13 to 21, 2020, in 220 Elm, space #204. More information about the joint project of Polish furniture companies can be found at: http://pl.furniture/media/.

Polish showroom represented by 7 world-class furniture companies: Benix, Black Red White, Gala Collezione, Raw, Szynaka Meble, Vzor, Zieta Studio.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1295143/European_Smart_Design_Poland.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1295145/Polish_Chamber_of_Commerce_Logo.jpg

SOURCE European Smart Design from Poland
The Company has added Michael Saxon to its advisory board. Mr. Saxon, who has held executive roles with two Big Tobacco firms in the United States, Europe, and Asia, is to advise Taats management in shaping the Companys go-to-market and expansion strategies as it prepares to launch Beyond Tobacco in the United States in mid-Q4 2020.

Taat has added Michael Saxon, pictured above, to its advisory board

Taat has added Michael Saxon, pictured above, to its advisory board

Taat has added Michael Saxon, pictured above, to its advisory board

LAS VEGAS and VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 01, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TAAT LIFESTYLE & WELLNESS LTD. (CSE: TAAT) (OTC: TOBAF) (FRANKFURT: 2TP2) (the Company or Taat) is pleased to announce that it has appointed Michael Saxon to the Companys advisory board. Michael Saxon is an accomplished consumer products and tobacco executive with over 25 years of experience growing businesses in the United States, Europe, and Asia. He has led business units with full profit and loss (P&L) responsibility ranging from USD $100 million to USD $3 billion while operating in different regulatory systems and successfully influencing government policy. Mr. Saxons career reflects a demonstrated history of setting record income and market share results in a wide range of market conditions and succeeding in various go-to-market models including wholesale, distributor, and DSD. Mr. Saxon brings a strong and innovative mindset from his experience in creating new products and brands. In leadership positions, Mr. Saxon has been the catalyst for successful large-scale transformation initiatives to drive organic growth and execute M&A transactions to enter new markets.

Mr. Saxon served in various positions for over 20 years with Altria Group (Altria) and Philip Morris International (PMI) including heading Altrias Corporate Venture Fund and leading PMIs business activities as General Manager for Norway and Denmark. Most recently, Mr. Saxon founded and is presently CEO of SXN Strategy Partners in Richmond, VA, which advises boards and executive teams of blue chip institutional investors as well as venture capital and private equity firms on long-term strategies. Mr. Saxon also helped establish Trolley Ventures, a seed stage venture fund investing in startups based in the state of Virginia.

Story continues

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f474bd2d-d1a1-4c1a-8650-7b78f5567ff2

Mr. Saxon will collaborate on a regular basis with Taat CEO Setti Coscarella and CRO Tim Corkum (both formerly of PMI) to provide guidance and expert insight relating to the Companys pursuit of its business goals, including the mid-Q4 2020 launch of Beyond Tobacco in the United States.

Im excited to join the Taat advisory board, said Michael Saxon. Offering current tobacco smokers of legal age an alternative to leave nicotine behind is an intriguing concept, and Taats team has developed a solution to do just that. I look forward to working with Mr. Coscarella and Mr. Corkum to diligently plan and execute the Beyond Tobacco product launch to swiftly capture market share and build momentum that can be replicated in new markets.

Taat CEO Setti Coscarella commented, Bringing Mr. Saxon on board as an advisor allows Taat to benefit from his relevant experience in the tobacco industry as we prepare to launch Beyond Tobacco. Foremost, because we are launching Beyond Tobacco in the United States first, the depth of Mr. Saxons familiarity with the American market can help to maximize the effectiveness of our go-to-market strategies. Additionally, the dynamics of international expansion of distribution for a product in the tobacco category requires familiarity with the habits of consumers in each individual market, the competition landscape, and local regulations. While our provisional plans to expand into new markets have taken all of these factors into account, Mr. Saxons expertise in European and Asian markets can be invaluable in realizing the greatest potential of any future expansion initiatives. With Beyond Tobacco set to be made available in the United States in mid-Q4 2020, we are thrilled to have Mr. Saxons capabilities on our side to execute our product launch and strategically gather market insights right from the beginning to shape our next steps in building our global market share in the USD $814 billion tobacco industry.

On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Company,

TAAT LIFESTYLE & WELLNESS LTD.

Setti Coscarella

Setti Coscarella, CEO

For further information, please contact:

Mauricio Inzunza

1-833-TAAT-USA (1-833-822-8872)

investor@taatusa.com

THE CANADIAN SECURITIES EXCHANGE (CSE) HAS NOT REVIEWED AND DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS RELEASE.

About Taat Lifestyle & Wellness Ltd.

Having developed Beyond Tobacco, which contains no tobacco or nicotine, Taats objective is to introduce an innovative, experience-driven alternative to tobacco cigarettes for tobacco smokers who aspire to leave nicotine behind. Beyond Tobacco, which is to be offered in Original and Menthol varieties, is designed to closely emulate every aspect of smoking a traditional cigarette. From the cigarette-style packaging and stick format, to the proprietary flavouring blend which imparts the flavour and scent of tobacco, to the draw sensation, and the amount of smoke exhaled, Beyond Tobacco has been meticulously engineered to enable smokers to continue enjoying the ritual of smoking, while discontinuing nicotine intake. Taat plans to launch Beyond Tobacco in mid-Q4 2020 and is seeking to position itself in the USD $814 billion (2018)1 global tobacco industry to capitalize on the growing worldwide demand for alternatives to traditional cigarettes.

For more information, please visit http://taatusa.com .

References

1 British American Tobacco - The Global Market

Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Often, but not always, forward-looking information and information can be identified by the use of words such as plans, expects or does not expect, is expected, estimates, intends, anticipates or does not anticipate, or believes, or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, might or will be taken, occur, or be achieved. Forward-looking information in this news release includes statements regarding the potential launch of Beyond Tobacco, in addition to the following: Potential outcomes resulting from Taats appointment of Michael Saxon as an advisor to the Company. The forward-looking information reflects managements current expectations based on information currently available and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking information. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed timeframes or at all. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include: (i) adverse market conditions; (ii) changes to the growth and size of the tobacco markets; and (iii) other factors beyond the control of the Company. The Company operates in a rapidly evolving environment. New risk factors emerge from time to time, and it is impossible for the Companys management to predict all risk factors, nor can the Company assess the impact of all factors on Companys business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ from those contained in any forward-looking information. The forward-looking information included in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

The statements in this news release have not been evaluated by Health Canada or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. As each individual is different, the benefits, if any, of taking the Companys products will vary from person to person. No claims or guarantees can be made as to the effects of the Companys products on an individuals health and well-being. The Companys products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

This news release may contain trademarked names of third-party entities (or their respective offerings with trademarked names) typically in reference to (i) relationships had by the Company with such third-party entities as referred to in this release and/or (ii) client/vendor/service provider parties whose relationship with the Company is/are referred to in this release. All rights to such trademarks are reserved by their respective owners or licensees.

Statement Regarding Third-Party Investor Relations Firms

Disclosures relating to investor relations firms retained by Taat Lifestyle & Wellness Ltd. can be found under the Company's profile on http://sedar.com .




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Linkedin Toh Ting Wei (The Straits Times/Asia News Network)  Thu, October 1, 2020 10:12 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c48631ce 2 News Singapore,travel,Australia,Vietnam Free

Singapore will unilaterally lift border restrictions to visitors from Australia - excluding Victoria state - and Vietnam from Oct. 8.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) said on Wednesday that these two countries both have comprehensive public health surveillance systems and have successfully controlled the spread of the COVID-19 outbreak.

"The risk of importation from these countries is low," said the authority, noting that over the last 28 days, Vietnam had zero local COVID-19 cases while Australia (excluding Victoria state) had a low virus incidence rate of 0.02 cases per 100,000 people.

The two countries join New Zealand and Brunei as the four countries that Singapore has unilaterally opened its borders to, as the country bids to revive its tourism and travel markets.

Visitors from Australia and Vietnam will be able to apply for the Air Travel Pass for entry into Singapore from Thursday. The earliest day they will be able to come into Singapore will be Oct. 8.

The Air Travel Pass scheme allows for all forms of short-term travel, including leisure travel. This is in contrast to reciprocal green lane arrangements between countries, which are usually for essential business and official travel.

Visitors will have to take a swab test upon arrival, and can go about their activities after they get a negative test result. They will have to use the TraceTogether app for the duration of their stay here, among other conditions.

CAAS also said that Singapore citizens, permanent residents and long-term pass holders returning from Australia (excluding Victoria state) and Vietnam will be able take a COVID-19 test upon arrival.

This will replace the current requirement of a seven-day stay-home notice with a test before the end of the notice.

CAAS added that it has updated Singapores travel advisory to allow for travel to Australia (excluding Victoria) and Vietnam.

It advised travelers to check the entry requirements imposed by these countries and to take necessary precautions if travelling.

Australia currently bans all overseas travel, and those who want to do so have to apply for an exemption. In addition, foreigners are not allowed to enter the country at the moment.

Read also: Singapore entices Indonesian tourists with new travel, culinary shows

Meanwhile, Vietnam has temporarily suspended entry of all foreigners and overseas Vietnamese via commercial flights. It will only approve entry for some foreigners, such as those with diplomatic passports, on a case-by-case basis.

Since border restrictions to visitors from Brunei and New Zealand were lifted on Sept. 8, CAAS has approved 331 applications from travelers from the two countries.

As of 5 p.m. on Wednesday, 136 visitors have arrived so far. None of them tested positive for COVID-19 upon arrival.

Transport Minister Ong Ye Kung said last month that the unilateral reopening of borders to Brunei and New Zealand was a "small, cautious" step that can resuscitate Changi Airport.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday, Ong said he has spoken to Michael McCormack, Australias deputy prime minister and Tao Thi Than Huong, Vietnams ambassador to Singapore, about the move.

"They were appreciative of Singapores decision, and when conditions are right, I believe they will consider reciprocating the lifting of restrictions to travelers from Singapore," he said.

The minister added that Singapores move to further open up was another step in resuscitating Changi Airport.

The Changi air hub is a crucial part of Singapore's economy, contributing more than 5 percent of Singapore's gross domestic product and employing 192,000 people before the pandemic.

Now, it is among the worst-hit segments of the economy, with the transportation and storage sector shrinking at an annualized rate of 80 per cent in the second quarter of the year, compared with the previous quarter.

Topics : Singapore travel Australia Vietnam

Topics :

This article appeared on The Straits Times newspaper website, which is a member of Asia News Network and a media partner of The Jakarta Post
Aurraiya, Oct 1 : In a shocking incident, a woman was found hanging in her house along with her three kids at Dibiyapur area of Aurraiya district in Uttar Pradseh.

According to the police, the bodies were found hanging with a saree from a hook in the room at their house on Thursday afternoon.

Police officials have so far, refused to comment on the incident and other family members also did not say a word on what happened.

The bodies have been sent for postmortem and further, probe is on, police addded.


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Jamie Johnson, of San Francisco, takes his lunch at Embarcadero as smoky skies from the northern California wildfires casts a reddish color in San Francisco, Calif., on Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2020.

Rent prices continued to plunge across the U.S. last month, with San Francisco leading the decline, according to data from Zumper, a real-estate start-up.

The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in San Francisco dropped more than 20% from a year ago, to $2,830, according to the report. That's the largest decline the company has recorded. Month-to-month, the price of a median one-bedroom in the city dropped nearly 7%, according to Zumper.

Zumper CEO Anthemos Georgiades pointed toward a flood of supply in the market. Some renters may be inclined to move to the suburbs to get more space, as the Covid-19 pandemic spurred companies to close offices and allow employees to work from home. Facebook and Google, for example, have told employees they can work remotely at least through next summer.

Rising unemployment may also be forcing some people into less expensive areas.

The wildfires and hazardous air conditions added another incentive and may have "tipped the balance about their medium-term location choices," he said. Last month, the air turned dark orange in the city for one day as high-level smoke from the fires up and down the West Coast blotted out the sun.

While presenting the data over Twitter, Georgiades said he still has faith the market will bounce back, although it may take years.

"Despite everything our data is showing, there are so many signals that it will recover, however contrarian this point may sound," he said. "However, I think we're talking years to fully recover, not months."

Houses in the city are still selling, CNBC reported Sunday. They're just on the market for longer periods of time, and not receiving as many bids as they did in recent years. The city reached its highest number of home listings in August, at 1,483, and price cuts have become more common.

WATCH: Wildfires sweep California
All departments of the state government and sub-ordinate offices in and will function with 50 per cent staff strength of employees during October in the view of COVID-19, according to an order by the government.

All state government offices throughout the state will remain closed on Saturdays.

In case of detection of any COVID-19 case among the employees, the concerned office will follow the protocol issued by the government.

The government said that the department/office heads may decide the manner of selection of employees who will attend office.

However, the essential offices/services such as Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) and State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) offices, police, fire, health and Municipal services will function with full strength.

Besides, all officials and staff involved in the Assembly's smooth functioning will attend the office on all days of the ongoing session.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Igor Levit: Encounter

JS Bach arr Busoni: Chorale Preludes; Brahms arr Busoni: 6 Chorale Preludes; Brahms arr Max Reger: Vier Ernste Gesange; Max Reger arr Julian Becker: Nachtlied; Morton Feldman: Palais de Mari

Sony 19439786572



The German-Russian pianist Igor Levit is classical musics man of the moment  his latest honour has come from the German government  and his exploits become ever more remarkable. No one else has broadcast Saties Vexations live in their entirety  the same piece repeated 840 times  as he recently did to raise money for freelance performers; no other classical musicians streamed performances from his home have equalled his tally of 100,000-plus followers on Twitter.

His latest CD notches up a different sort of first, in that nobody else has thought of combining its rarely performed works in one grouping. First, he performs Bachs complete chorale preludes in Busonis lovely arrangements, then we get some Brahms chorale preludes by the same arranger. Next comes Brahms arranged by Max Reger, then a piece by Reger himself in Julian Beckers arrangement. Finally comes Palais de Mari by Morton Feldman, whose economy with notes is the musical equivalent of a speech by a Trappist monk. Its all fascinating, and all brilliantly played.

Britten: Peter Grimes

Stuart Skelton and Erin Wall, with the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus, conducted by Edward Gardner

Chandos CHA 5250(2)



A week after its premiere, Britten described the message of his most popular opera, Peter Grimes, thus: I wanted to express my awareness of the perpetual struggle of men and women whose livelihood depends on the sea. A year later, however, Peter Pears  for whom the title role was created  described it as an opera based on the conflict between society and the individual. Both assertions are of course true, but, given that Grimes was just the first in a long line of social outcasts in Brittens oeuvre, the second is nearer the mar

Their sexuality  whose expression was still unlawful in the mid-20th century  permanently set them apart, and Grimess sexuality, which we are left to infer rather than having spelled out, was all the more poignant as a result. This new recording under Edward Gardners baton is as superb as one would expect from this brilliant line-up, with Stuart Skelton, an acclaimed Grimes in previous productions, forming an electrifying focus, and soprano Erin Wall as his foil. Delivered by the Bergen Philharmonic, the orchestral interludes form a glorious backdrop.
Tuesday nights presidential debate was instantly received as a milestone in political history: a debate driven off the rails by the frantic obnoxiousness of Donald Trump, as the president compulsively interrupted Joe Biden and moderator Chris Wallace again and again, while seeming to be speaking only to a base of far-right supporters rather than the country as a whole. To support this account of the central themes and implications of the presidents behavior, political journalism has focused in on a few shocking momentschief among them Trumps apparent endorsement of the far-right, street-fighting Proud Boys and his debate-ending rant declaring that the entire election would be untrustworthy and riddled with fraud.

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But the traditional practice of summarizing and epitomizing presidential debates did not do justice to how comprehensively, baroquely unhinged the presidents performance was. Trump filled the night with remarksmany of them delivered as offhand asidesthat would have been shocking enough to dominate the next-day coverage had they happened anytime before 2016. In the maelstrom of 2020, though, claims that would once have ranked among the most appalling, dishonest, misinformed, or simply bizarre things ever said by a major-party presidential candidate passed largely unremarked. Here are eight of them!

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The two most relevant scientific officials in Trumps own administration are wrong about when a coronavirus vaccine will be ready, according to Trump. Moderator Chris Wallace asked Trump why he has been saying a vaccine is weeks away, despite the head of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the director of the White Houses Operation Warp Speed vaccine task force both saying one will likely not be ready to distribute widely until next summer. Ive spoken to the companies, and we can have it a lot sooner, said the president, whose background is in real estate marketing. I disagree with both of them.

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Insulin is nearly free now. When Wallace pointed out correctly that Trump has never proposed a replacement for the Affordable Care Act health care system that he is always trying to eliminate, Trump responded that he is cutting drug prices, then said the following: Insulin, it was destroying families, destroying people, the cost. Im getting it for so cheap its like water, you want to know the truth. So cheap. According to the medical news site Stat, insulin still retails for roughly $300 a vial. Trump, Stat says, was likely referring to a limited price-cap plan his administration has put in place that covers a fraction of seniors enrolled in certain pricey private insurance plans.

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Cars are too expensive because they have too many computers in them. The car has gotten so expensive because they have computers all over the place, Trump said, during a discussion of rolling back fuel-efficiency standards. I could not find any coverage online of excessive computer insertion driving car prices up. Additionally, Trumps related claim that relaxing fuel-efficiency standards will make cars cheaper runs into the reality that if you buy a cheaper car with lower fuel efficiency you end up spending more on gas; Consumer Reports calculated that Trumps rollbacks will end up costing consumers an average of $2,100 per new car purchased.

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Europeans live in fireproof forest cities. Trump denied that the ongoing West Coast wildfires are related to climate change and said they wouldnt be happening if Americans, like the Europeans who live in forest cities, were more vigilant about forest management. In Europe, they livetheyre forest cities, theyre called forest cities. They maintain their forest. They manage their forest. I was with the head of a major countryits a forest city. He said, Sir, we have trees that are far more, they ignite much easier than California. There shouldnt be that problem.  Its not clear which head of a country that is also a forest city the president was referring to, but in 2018, he baffled officials in Finland by asserting that they prevent forest fires by raking the forest floor. Elsewhere, Trump has made clear that what he means by forest management is giving more permits to the logging industry; you can click here to read a 2018 Slate article about why that is unlikely to help.

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The numbers on his own tax returns are wrong. The New York Times reported Sunday that it had obtained years of Trumps long-concealed tax returns, and that, among other things, they show that he paid $750 in income taxes each year in 2016 and 2017. Although Trump called the blockbuster report fake news, the White House objected to the story by talking about other kinds of taxes Trump had paid, or income tax Trump had paid in other years, rather than by directly disputing the authenticity of the documents or the validity of the central $750 figure.

Trump at first tried the same deflection when Wallace asked him whether hed really only paid $750. When the moderator kept pressing him specifically about the number, though, Trump finally directly denied it.

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WALLACE: No, Mr. President, Im asking you a question. Will you tell us how much you paid in federal income taxes in 2016 and 2017? TRUMP: Millions of dollars. WALLACE: You paid millions of dollars in TRUMP: Millions of dollars, yes. WALLACE: So not $750? TRUMP: Millions of dollars. And youll get to see it. And youll get to see it.

Is there a distant possibility that the New York Times spent months examining apparently authentic tax documents and got the most important number in their story wrong? I guess. Way, way, way more likely is that the president lied on live national television about the central fact in what had been the No. 1 story in the weeks news cycle.

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The president can, and should, order the extrajudicial assassination of U.S. citizens. On the subject of protests and accompanying violencea pet theme of the Trump reelection campaignWallace set out to press Biden on whether he was reluctant to call out the National Guard. When Biden argued that Trumps federal interventions in Portland, Oregon, had made things worse, Trump jumped in to boast about his performance: I sent in the U.S. Marshals to get the killer of a young man in the middle of the street, and they shot him. For three days, Portland didnt do anything. I sent in the U.S. Marshals, they took care of business. The business the president was referring to was the killing of Michael Forest Reinoehl, a suspect in the shooting of a far-right protester in Portland. After initial reports that Reinoehl had died in a gun battle with the authorities, one witness told reporters he was clutching a cellphone and eating a gummy worm when the marshals opened fire on him without warning.

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Taking status away from white people is an upsetting reversal. Here is Trump describing what is wrong with training programs in which white people are asked to consider the ways they may have benefited from and contributed to systemic racism:

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WALLACE: What is radical about racial sensitivity training, sir? TRUMP: If you were a certain person, you had no status in life, it was, sort of, a reversal.

????????. This was, according to Trump, one of the reasons he should be reelected:

The greatest, before COVID came in, the greatest economy in history, lowest unemployment numbers, everything was good. Everything was goingand by the way, there was unity going to happen. People were calling me, for the first time in years, they were calling and they were saying, Its time, maybe. And then what happened? We got hit.

Time for what? And who was calling? Unfortunately, we will never know, because we got hit.
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By Express News Service

CHENNAI: The Anglo Indian community has urged the Centre to accord it a separate minority status in order to restore the communitys significance. They also demanded the government to restore communitys quota in Parliament and Assemblies.

Constitution - Article 334, which lays down provisions for reserving seats for SCs and STs and nomination of Anglo-Indians to LS and Assemblies, ceased to be in effect from January this year. Steps should be taken to restore this provision and protect significance of Anglo Indians.

The yardstick, used to extend special reservation for SC and ST under article 334 (a), was not applied to extend special reservations for Anglo-Indians, said former vice president of Federation of Anglo-Indian Associations Augustine Roy Rozario.
The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily delayed the annual Awards Banquet for the Kenosha County Veterans Council.

But on Wednesday morning, there were plenty of honors  and smiles  inside the Heros Cafe.

First-year Veterans Council President Andy Berg handed out five awards, including a Lifetime Achievement honor to Al Vittori, during the presentation at the Moose Lodge, 3003 30th Ave., Kenosha.

Also recognized were Business of the Year, Festival Foods, 3207 80th St.; VFW Post 1865, Veterans Service Award; Auxiliary Member of the Year, Sonja McClure; Veteran of the Year, Phillip Morris; and Lifetime Achievement Award, Al Vittori.

Berg, who served 20 years in the Illinois National Guard before he retired in January, said he was honored to lead Wednesday mornings ceremony.

For me to be able to give out these awards to the fine men and women of Kenosha County is heartfelt, he said. From the bottom of my heart, its amazing what theyve done for our community, what theyve done for our country, and to be able to honor them is something Ill never forget.

Lifetime Achievement

Vittoris achievements are a lengthy list.

He has served as chairman of the Youth Committee for the 82nd Airborne Division Association, American Legion Post 21 and the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 767. In addition, he is a Worshipful Master with both the West Allis and Kenosha Masonic Lodges, is a member of the Lake Lodge in Milwaukee and is secretary of the Painters Local 974.

Its really great (to be honored), but the guys that were with me, the Band of Brothers, they share it with me, Vittori said.

But perhaps its his work in both Kenosha and Racine county schools that is even more impressive, Berg said during his presentation, which was met with a standing ovation from those in attendance after Vittoris name was announced.

(He) has been educating the youth of Kenosha and Racine county for decades, Berg said. (He) ensures they know what veterans have done, what they continue to do, and why America should honor and never forget them.

... (He) makes sure the youth of Kenosha and Racine counties understand what being a veteran means and encouraged them to honor and respect us all.

Vittori, who served in the 82nd Airborne Division of the U.S. Army, said he leads a number of things within schools, including presentations, classes, field trips and seminars to further educate the students about veterans.

Ive been doing it for almost 20 years now, he said.

Veteran of the Year

Like Vittori, Morris is involved in a wide-range of activities.

Morris has been a member of the American Legion for 16 years, including 13 with Post 21 in Kenosha. He also has served as the sergeant at arms, and currently is a second vice commander, a member of the Children and Youth Committee and is a service officer for all five American Legion posts in the county.

One main reason (Post 21 Commander Tom Visintainer) nominated (Morris) for Veteran of the Year is because whenever the call for volunteers from Post 21 goes out, (he) is almost always, if not always, the first volunteer to step forward, Berg said.

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LONDON (dpa-AFX) - Travis Perkins plc (TPK.L) said Stuart Chambers has informed the Board that he wishes to step down in the coming months as non-executive Chairman of the company. The Group said it is anticipated that Stuart Chambers will leave the Board during the first half of 2021. Travis Perkins plc stated that the Nominations Committee, with the assistance of a professional search advisor, will identify a successor for Stuart Chambers. The company will issue an update on this as appropriate. 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.
After 25 years of writing novels, best-selling author Nicholas Sparks said his latest book took him to a place hes never been.

The Return is about a sailor, Trevor Benson, who returns to his native New Bern, North Carolina, after being injured in a mortar blast in Afghanistan. Though it is a fictional story, Sparks says he spoke to post-9/11 veterans to ensure the characters experience was authentic.

I had to have a lot of conversations with veterans who were suffering from PTSD, and more than that they had to be honest conversations so there had to be a level of trust and openness on their part to discuss the consequences and challenges associated with PTSD. So, I probably had conversations with no less than nine or 10 different veterans who served in various capacities overseas, Sparks said. It was remarkable to me that everyones story had certain similarities but each one was specifically unique. I spoke to people who had tremendous survival guilt. I spoke to people who had difficulty escaping from the nightmare of some horrific injury. I spoke with people whose hands shook regularly, years after they returned from Iraq or Afghanistan.

The process of writing a novel takes anywhere from one day to 10 years, Sparks says, with The Return entailing roughly a years time from writing to editing to the final product.

A common element of military service can be found throughout Sparks novels, including the well-known story of The Notebook  a romantic drama later adapted to a film starring Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams who played roles from World War II. Showcasing characters with a military affiliation isnt solely because of the authors home being co-located near Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, he says, but also because of familial connections to the Armed Forces.

Many people in my family have served in the military. The military has been just part of my upbringing since Ive been a young child and theyve served in all branches  Ive always been appreciative of the sacrifice that my family members have shown to uphold the values of our country and Im appreciative for everybody in uniform who serves and its just part of my life, he said.

Research is a core component of the process Sparks uses to create a character who feels unique and yet universal. While bringing Trevor Benson to life in The Return, Sparks says it took him to emotional destinations unknown to him.

There is an element as a novelist at which you have to dive into this particular characters head, so when I was writing and creating the character of Trevor Benson I had to dive into the mind of someone whos an orthopedic surgeon who gets blown up essentially in Afghanistan in a horrific mortar accident. And this not only happened to him, but it blew up the person that he thought he would be. He had spent  like most physicians he wanted to be a doctor for years and years and years  15 years of his life toward undergraduate school, residency, a fellowship in orthopedic surgery and then all at once, in the blink of an eye, all of that was taken away.

The Return explores who a person becomes after war injury leads them on another path, a discovery process Sparks said he wanted to follow.

The book is currently available for purchase with major book retailers and Nicholas Sparks will be hosting a number of events, including book signings. Visit https://nicholassparks.com to learn more.

Read the original article on MilitaryFamilies.com.

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Many companies quote results in 24 hours but usually this means doing a home test, posting it in a Priority post box ( you should get a pre -paid tracked return envelope) and then they aim to send the result and certificate 24 hours after receipt via email which you would download. You can order the test well in advance .

Not for Maldives but my Brother recently used confirmtesting.com 149.99 each plus p&p. He took his test at home in Newcastle upon Tyne on a Thursday 71h 55mins before his scheduled departure which was of 1435 on the following Sunday, posted it shortly afterwards, tracked its receipt at the lab in London which was 0730 Friday and received his results 1646 Saturday.

Personally I am using a lab in Co.Durham within an hour or so of my home. I already have the test ready to take myself at home. It cost 109 plus P&P. My timings are the same as my Brother's but I hope to gain that extra bit of time by delivering it in person that same afternoon instead of posting the test as the lab has a 24/7 collection box.

If you take a look at Magic of Maldives Facebook page a thread was started a day or so ago with a list of some companies which will do the test and people invited to add their own experiences.
Tourists relax as the sun sets on the central Philippine island of Boracay, March 28, 2018.

The Philippines top tourist draw, the island of Boracay in the central region, reopened Thursday amid COVID-19 fears as the country seeks to balance reviving the economy and protecting the public.

The reopening after almost four months of the island that is famed for its beaches signals the safe and gradual revival of a tourism industry stalled by the pandemic, Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said.

What could be a better way to herald the revival of Philippine tourism than the reopening of the world-renowned Boracay Island? she said, adding the move to allow domestic tourists was a crucial first step in reviving the industry.

Puyat noted that while there had been no cases of the novel coronavirus disease detected on the island, health and safety protocols remained in effect.

We advise all tourists to be on strict quarantine immediately after the PCR test and until the time of travel to the island. This is to help ensure that they will remain free of COVID-19 before they visit Boracay, she said, referring to the rapid polymerase chain reaction test used to detect infections.

Only tourists coming from regions in the country where quarantine protocols have been relaxed will be allowed to visit the island, she said. In addition, only those without underlying medical conditions and who have tested negative for the virus at least 48 hours before traveling would be accommodated.

Frolibar Bautista, the acting mayor of Boracay islands Malay municipality, said 26 tourists arrived on the first day, while 95 others were expected but had not completed the health requirements, according to the state-run Philippine News Agency.

Those who made it to Boracay found many shops padlocked at a strip mall once flooded with tourists. A sign stuck on a restaurants glass door read We are temporarily closed due to COVID.

The few hotels and restaurants that were open advertised social distancing rules, along with and exclusive drinks and food promotions, but had few takers.

Officials said potential tourists must book their stays through accredited establishments, adding each visitor would be given a personal quick response code for monitoring. The code could then be used to track contacts should a visitor test positive for the coronavirus.

We urge our visitors to be responsible tourists. Follow the guidelines, respect the rules, Puyat told reporters. We can never be too complacent, even on vacation, we must adhere to the minimum health protocols. Lets wear our masks when possible.

Boracay Island will further open its doors to more local tourist and signal the continued resurgence of domestic tourism nationwide, she said.

COVID-19

With the Philippines in various stages of lockdown because of COVID-19 and much of the business sector closed, the economy has plunged. Tourism has taken a beating, Puyat said, because airlines and general travel had been barred across the archipelago.

As of Thursday, the health department said the nationwide death toll from the outbreak had reached 5,562, with 59 new deaths reported within the previous 24 hours. In addition, 2,415 infections were logged, bringing the total number of infections to 314,079  the highest number of confirmed cases in East Asia.

Globally, more than 34 million infections and more than 1 million deaths have been recorded, according to disease experts at U.S.-based Johns Hopkins University.

Meanwhile, President Rodrigo Dutertes spokesman, Harry Roque, said the reopening of the world-class white-sand beach did not mean the country was in the clear in dealing with COVID-19.

It means we need to balance the reality that workers in the tourism sector must now resume work, Roque told a virtual press briefing. It means that it is possible for us to work if we just take care of our health.

The beach closing because of the pandemic came two years after the president took similar action based on environmental concerns.

In April 2018, Duterte ordered the island closed for six months of rehabilitation after he described its beaches as cesspools and dangers to human health.

At the time Duterte took action, the island had been touted as a regional tourism hotspot to rival Phuket in Thailand and Bali in Indonesia.

Jeoffrey Maitem in Cotabato City, Philippines, contributed to this report.
India on Thursday said it desires to have normal neighbourly relations with Pakistan in an atmosphere free of terror, hostility and violence and the onus is on Islamabad to create such an environment.

External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said India's efforts to step up engagement with the countries of the region are reflection of its 'Neighbourhood First policy'.

"This is certainly a reflection of our Neighbourhood First policy, wherein the government is committed to developing friendly and mutually beneficial relations with our neighbours," he said at a media briefing.

He said India's engagement with these countries is based on a consultative, non-reciprocal and outcome oriented approach.

Srivastava was replying to a question on India's renewed efforts in the last few months to further expand ties with Bangladesh, Myanmar, the Maldives and several other countries of the region.

"We have a large development cooperation footprint in these countries and we are engaged in several projects for greater connectivity, improved infrastructure and broader people-to-people contacts," he said.

On Pakistan, he said the onus is on Islamabad to create an environment for normal ties.

"As regards Pakistan, the government has conveyed that it desires normal neighbourly relations with Pakistan in an atmosphere free from terror, hostility and violence. The onus is on Pakistan for creating such an environment," he said.

The ties between India and Pakistan came under severe strain after India's war planes pounded a Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist training camp in Balakot in Pakistan in February last year in response to the Pulwama terror attack.

The relations further deteriorated after India on August 5 last year announced withdrawing special powers of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcation of the state into two union territories.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
At the presidential debate Tuesday, moderator Chris Wallace remarkably brought up climate change  the first time the subject has been discussed in that setting since 2008. It was some long-overdue attention to the biggest problem by far that faces America and all humanity over the medium and long term.

Naturally, given his Fox News background, Wallace's questions were profoundly misleading. He set up a false dichotomy, accepting the premise from President Trump that there is a tradeoff between fighting climate change and keeping a strong economy. However, Joe Biden correctly disputed the idea, pointing out that climate policy can actually boost the economy, and conversely that unchecked climate change is going to be terrifically expensive. It wasn't much noticed thanks to all of Trump's chaos, but Biden's reasoning suggests he understands the need for super-aggressive climate policy.

Wallace suggested that Biden's $2 trillion climate plan would "tank the economy and cost millions of dollars." Biden debate performance was pretty flat, but he correctly parried both mistaken parts of the question. On the economy, he noted that spending a great deal of money would in fact create jobs while achieving lots of important goals, like reducing pollution, weatherizing homes, and so on. On the danger of climate change, he also pointed out that even today America is suffering constant severe disasters that are very expensive, and will only get worse. "We spend billions of dollars now  on floods, hurricanes, rising seas. We're in real trouble," he said. "Look what's happening just in the Midwest with these storms that come through and wipe out entire sections and counties of Iowa. That didn't happen before, [and it's] because of global warming."

This is exactly right. Faux-serious centrist politicians, and even some prominent climate economists, have downplayed the serious risk climate change poses to the biosphere, human society, and the economy. It will be stupendously expensive to let Miami be drowned, or to build seawalls around our coastal cities that might be saved, or to see California burned to the ground every couple years, or to see extreme weather of all kinds pummeling the country from one side to the other.

Story continues

Now, Biden's climate plan leaves a lot to be desired. It is not nearly as big as Bernie Sanders' plan, which was the only one of any Democratic presidential candidate this cycle that was actually up to the scale of the problem. It is also yet to be seen how serious Biden is about this, and it was unfortunate to hear him give in to pressure to disclaim the Green New Deal as some kind of left-wing nuttery.

But on the other hand, Biden's climate policy approach actually does follow the basic logic of the Green New Deal  namely, spending a huge pile of money to replace all our greenhouse gas-emitting infrastructure, and in the process creating millions of jobs and getting economic output back up to capacity. As economist J.W. Mason detailed in a recent paper, this is exactly what happened during the Second World War, the closest analogue to a crash decarbonization program we have. The American economy is indeed in the toilet, and will need a very large rescue package to get it back to strength once there is a COVID-19 vaccine.

At bottom, once we have agreed that climate spending can provide a very badly-needed economic boost, and that climate change poses a dire threat to the biosphere and the economy, the only debate is about magnitudes. And that's where advocates of the Green New Deal might actually help Biden out in Congress. If he wins, a big climate-based economic rescue will probably be towards the top of the legislative agenda. As I have argued at length, what is needed is to get emissions down as fast as possible. A climate policy package should therefore be big enough to address the problem, not restricted to some arbitrary size because political "moderates" wet themselves when they see a really big number.

Green New Deal supporters will be able to argue convincingly to increase the size of any climate plan (whatever it happens to be called), on the grounds of doing America's part to crush emissions, and also ensuring the coronavirus economic crisis is fixed so Democrats don't get wiped out in the 2022 and 2024 elections.

It's called being serious about the threats facing the American people, and it's long since time moderate Democrats learned how to do it.

More stories from theweek.com

What happens if Trump and Pence both get seriously ill from COVID-19? Chaos.

Late night hosts have a pretty good idea why Trump shockingly refuses to condemn white supremacists

Could Trump have infected Biden with COVID-19 at the debate? Yes, but it's unlikely.


My answer  the answer from the IRS and governments in more than half the states  is a structure in which the rich pay a greater percentage of their income in taxes than the poor. This helps balance out the greater impact of regressive taxes and fees paid by lower earners that cause those on the bottom to pay nearly twice the effective state and local tax rate as the top 1%.
In the normal run of political campaigning, the question most asked the morning after a major candidates debate is, Who won?

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 30/9/2020 (479 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

In the normal run of political campaigning, the question most asked the morning after a major candidates debate is, "Who won?"

In the aftermath of Tuesdays faceoff between incumbent U.S. President Donald Trump and Democratic Party nominee Joe Biden  the first of three scheduled debates in the lead-up to the Nov. 3 U.S. election  its likely that a great many who tuned it in were left lamenting 90 squandered minutes theyll never get back and wondering out loud, "Who CARES?"

It was, simply put, a shameful affair. Variously described in media reactions as "a train wreck," "a joke," "a dumpster fire," "a low point in political discourse," an "unseemly shout-fest," "a s**t show" and "the worst presidential debate in living memory," the televised encounter dragged the very notion of political debates  in which candidates are implored to engage in face-to-face discussions aimed at enlightening the electorate on eachs policies and beliefs  into a figurative ditch so deep, befouled and disgusting that theres reason to worry the format can never be unsoiled.

The debate between Joe Biden and Donald Trump was a shameful affair. (Olivier Douliery / Pool via The Associated Press)

Its a night most Americans  including the two candidates and the woefully ineffectual moderator, Fox News anchor Chris Wallace  would very likely rather forget. But there are many reasons it should not be cast immediately into the dustbin of history, and should instead be held up as a stark reminder of what American politics has become, and an encouragement for voters to use the power of their ballots to ensure its not what American politics will be in 2021 and beyond.

While its fair to observe that no one on the stage in Cleveland acquitted himself well, its inarguable that blame for the debacle-ishness of the event is not evenly distributed. Fault for the undignified and brutish demeanour of the dialogue falls squarely on Mr. Trump, who arrived at his podium clearly intent on employing every insult and untruth at his disposal to set Mr. Biden off balance while avoiding accountability for his manifold failings as president.

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Mr. Wallaces attempts to keep the discussion on topic and on track failed completely as Mr. Trump, in as unpresidential a turn as has ever been offered in a debate forum, ignored the rules to which his campaign team had agreed and continually interrupted his opponent with juvenile insults and falsehood-based provocations.

Mr. Biden, for his part, was not unflappable, referring in frustration to Mr. Trump as a clown, a liar, and the worst president in U.S. history. At one particularly low point, an exasperated Mr. Biden simply turned to face his opponents ongoing harangue and shot back, "Will you shut up, man?"

President Donald Trump wouldn't condemn the alt-right, white-supremacist faction that has long supported him. (Julio Cortez / The Associated Press)

There was precious little, in terms of policy or party platform, for voters to absorb. There were, however, moments that should be held in mind as Americans cast their ballots, the most notable being Mr. Trumps unwillingness  or, perhaps, inability  when asked directly to do so, to categorically condemn the alt-right, white-supremacist faction that has long supported him and that he has been very reluctant to confront.

When Mr. Wallace asked if he would tell his white supremacist followers  and specifically, the violent fringe group known as The Proud Boys  to stand down and cease interfering the the electoral process, Mr. Trump instead called on the group to "stand back, and stand by"  a statement that by evenings end was being displayed on T-shirts and shoulder patches circulated online by the groups members.

Shameful, indeed  the statement; the response; the debate.
Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz warned Tuesday against any attempt to force EU countries to take in asylum-seekers as the European Commission prepared to unveil a new strategy for handling migration to the bloc.

Speaking to AFP in an exclusive interview, Kurz alluded to previous efforts by the European Commission to introduce mandatory quotas for refugees for all EU members, which were rejected by many eastern and central European countries.

"We find that the distribution in Europe (of asylum seekers) has failed and many states reject this. It won't work like this," the 34-year-old conservative leader said.

On Wednesday, Brussels will launch its latest proposal for EU asylum policy.

Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson wants the 27 member states to share the burden of handling asylum claims from migrants who arrive mostly on the bloc's southern shores in Greece, Italy and Spain.

She has again raised the idea of mandatory sharing, though this might not mean resettling refugees around the bloc, but rather forcing all states to contribute to the system -- by helping with efforts to return failed asylum seekers, for example.

European migration policy was again in the headlines earlier this month following a devastating fire at an overcrowded camp for migrants and asylum seekers on the Greek island of Lesbos which left thousands homeless.

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said last week that the new proposals would include plans to strengthen border security and return failed asylum seekers, which Kurz and allies are in favour of, while also including "a new strong solidarity mechanism."

- Seeking alliances -

Kurz said he welcomed that the European Commission was addressing the topic of asylum and migration.

"We can only solve this topic all together... Better protection of the (EU's) outer borders, a joined fight against smugglers, but also joined aid where it is needed (in countries where refugees come from), that is the path that is needed," he said.

Story continues

Austria and other smaller countries -- some of them, such as Hungary, criticised by Brussels over their anti-immigration stance and on rule-of-law issues -- have spoken out in the past against any mandatory asylum-seeker distribution.

Kurz, pushing to make his mark in European politics, has also sought allies on other topics, such as when he worked with the Netherlands, Sweden and Denmark -- as the so-called "Frugal Four" -- to oppose direct EU aid to coronavirus-hit countries as proposed by Germany and France.

"The European Union is more than just Germany and France... As a small or medium-sized state of course one has to always look for alliances, and in an EU with 27 member states one can only assert ideas if there are others that support them," he told AFP in an office in the chancellery.

- Coronavirus 'challenge' -

Kurz became the world's youngest chancellor when his conservative People's Party (OeVP) formed a coalition government with the far-right Freedom Party (FPOe) in 2017.

The coalition fell apart in 2019 after a corruption scandal engulfed the far-right FPOe leader, leading to fresh elections in which Kurz's party again gathered the most votes.

Kurz then formed a new coalition with the Greens and has governed the Alpine country of nearly nine million people since January.

Kurz said fighting the coronavirus pandemic was "a very big challenge".

"I am still relatively young, but I have been part of the Austrian government for many years and I thought I had already been through a lot politically... The corona crisis now exceeds all previous experiences of course," he said.

The country has so far been spared the brunt of the crisis, reporting almost 40,000 cases with 771 deaths to date, but infections have surged again in recent weeks.

This has led to the government to extend mandatory mask wearing and re-instate some of the other restrictions imposed earlier this year to stem the spread of the virus.

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HOLLAND, MI  Forget an apple, you can get free ice cream for the special teacher in your life.

Hudsonville Ice Cream is offering ice cream deliveries to teachers who are nominated through the Michigan-based creamerys Random Acts of Ice Cream program. Selected nominees will receive a box full of ice cream pints delivered directly to their doorstep.

The intent of our Random Acts of Ice Cream program is to show gratitude and bring joy to someones day, and with the new school year starting we wanted to acknowledge the dedication of teachers and other education staff, said Rachel Messingschlager of Hudsonville Ice Cream.

We all have teachers and educational role models to thank for shaping our lives, and this year educators are going above and beyond to ensure our children can learn and grow, whether its virtually or in the classroom. Sending a box of ice cream is something small we can do to help make their days a little sweeter while they are doing so much to inspire the next generation.

Nominations be submitted at www.hudsonvilleicecream.com/random-acts, and Hudsonville plans to ship boxes out to a number of selected recipients each week.

Nominators can share why the teacher or other education professional (including cafeteria workers, librarians, bus drivers and more) should receive a special ice cream delivery during this unusual year. Hudsonville Ice Cream will send a box of its classic pint flavors to selected nominees, no purchase required.

Random Acts of Ice Cream returned earlier this year to recognize healthcare heroes and other frontline workers. To date, Hudsonville has shipped hundreds of boxes to more than 20 states.

The family-owned company chose to recognize teachers and support staff aligned with the start of the school year and will continue the program through 2020, according to a news release.
The first all-virtual South Dakota Festival of Books opens Thursday. Readers and writers will have full access to the entire event from the comfort of home.

Nine longtime and new authors from the Black Hills are participating in the 18th annual festival, along with nationally recognized writers Max Brooks, Angelica Shirley Carpenter, Robert Dugoni, Karl Marlantes, Sally Roesch Wagner, and more. Altogether, more than 60 authors on the 2020 roster will discuss books, teach workshops and interact with fans through Zoom and Facebook Live.

Were all about bringing readers and writers together, no matter where they are, said Jennifer Widman, Festival of Books director.

West River authors will present some sessions and will be included in the online exhibitors hall. Eliza Blue of Hot Springs will be part of the festival kickoff celebration and concert on Thursday. Blue writes a weekly Little Pasture on the Prairie, and this year published her first book, Accidental Rancher.

Paul Higbee of Spearfish is a historian, author and retired educator, South Dakota Magazine feature writer and columnist. His Oct. 3 presentation will be Doolittle Raider Don Smith: From SDSU to WWII. Smith is the topic of Higbees recent book, The First Strike.

Virginia Driving Hawk Sneve of Rapid City is the author of 27 books for all ages, plus short stories, articles and poems. On Oct. 12, shell talk about her biography of her brother in a presentation, Too Strong to Be Broken: The Life of Edward J. Driving Hawk.

Also on Oct. 12, brothers Robin Zephier of Rapid City and Harley Zephier of Dupree will discuss Warrior Is, a book they co-wrote about their great-grandfather, Mato Niyanpi (Saved by Bear). The brothers have become storytellers of their tradition and culture.

During the interactive authors sessions, audience members can type questions into the chat box for the presenters.

Its kind of nice to have this conversation going on with an author right on your computer, said Ryan Woodard, communications and marketing specialist with the South Dakota Humanities Council.

The exhibitors hall gives authors an opportunity to promote their work. Exhibitors include first-time novelist Holly Sortland of Rapid City, western novelist Bill Bishop of Box Elder, childrens author Rory Foresman of Rapid City, and writer-editor Kate Meadows of Black Hawk. For more information and links to the authors websites, go to sdhumanities.org/festival-of-books/exhibitors/.

Each year, the Festival of Books features a common read for children and adults through the One Book South Dakota program. The 2020 One Book for adults is Unfollow: A Memoir of Loving and Leaving the Westboro Baptist Church by Megan Phelps-Roper, granddaughter of the churchs founder, Fred Phelps.

Westboro Baptist Church members traveled to the Black Hills twice to picket and protest. In 2011, seven church members picketed at the funeral of soldier Paul Pillen at Open Bible Christian Center in Rapid City, then continued on to Huron to picket a funeral for Army Spc. Daniel Bartels. A group from Westboro Baptist also protested in Rapid City in 2004 when then-Rapid City Councilman Tom Murphy said he planned to have a sex-change operation.

Roper will be featured in a Friday session, Unfollow: Reflections on Statewide Conversations about the 2020 One Book South Dakota  Megan Phelps-Roper in Conversation with Laura Floyd.

With the exception of three workshops that cost $20 each, all events are free. Festivalgoers can get general admission passes to the free events at sdhumanities.org/festival-of-books/tickets and can sign up there to attend the paid workshops. Events will continue through Oct. 23. For a full schedule, go to sdhumanities.org/festival-of-books/schedule.

Throughout the festival, users will find tech support options to facilitate any issues they might have with logging in.

"We know this is a new experience for many loyal festival-goers, so we want to help them navigate the technology to make sure they have a great time and don't miss any of the authors and events they love," Widman said.

Woodard said the South Dakota Humanities Council already received positive comments from people who are excited to have access to this years festival because it and many book festivals nationwide moved entirely online.

Safety is the first priority, said Ann Volin, director of the South Dakota Humanities Council, which hosts Festival of Books. We will dearly miss our personal interactions with fans, volunteers, sponsors, authors, and everyone else who has made this event so special during the past 17 years, but we will host a robust virtual event and hope to be back in person in 2021.

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MBABANE  If you want to go to neighbouring countries, be prepared to produce results that are not beyond 72 hours old.

These should have been borne at your own cost. The same will apply to individuals who want to visit the kingdom from international countries. This is effective from today. Minister of Health Lizzie Nkosi said this yesterday when announcing the new travel advisory guidelines that will be observed by those intending to go to countries that have allowed visitors from other countries by air or land. Mainly, it is countries in the SADC Region, particularly South Africa (SA) and Mozambique that have allowed visitors. It was stated that travellers and passengers would continue using the points of entry that were functional during the lockdown.

The minister announced that people who wanted to come into the country had to produce the results that confirmed COVID-19 negative status and if not, they would place that individual in quarantine at their own expense. She further stated that in an unfortunate event one had a long trip that might have resulted in the 72 hours collapse while on the way; they would be quarantined if they had COVID-19 symptoms, at their own cost. She said for those whose results would would be found to have expired (72 hours) while they were on the way, they would be screened and questioned on where they were coming from.

Travellers who do not present a valid negative COVID-19 result or present with COVID-19 symptoms or both, will be required to do the COVID-19 test at the point of entry at their cost, said the minister. The minister further clarified that the test that would be considered is the one referred to as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), which was the gold standard and was 99.7 per cent accurate and not blood tests. PCR is when swabs usually collected at the inner end of the nose or at the inner end of the mouth are taken for testing.

Meanwhile, for people intending to go to neighbouring countries who also want the same results, the minister stated that if found to be having COVID-19 symptoms, that traveller would not be allowed to exit the country and the protocol for COVID-19 testing would be effected. The testing will be done at that travellers own cost. If you are essential and intend to reach out for a service outside the country, government will support you accordingly. We would like to send our apologies to those who travel for non-essential reasons as they will have to pay for themselves, remarked the minister.
Nearly twenty years of building infrastructure is going to waste because of corruption. Building these road, sanitation and electrical power projects was crippled by corruption and efforts to maintain the new infrastructure suffered the same fate. The corruption was a combination of construction, operating and maintenance funds stolen, often resulting in substandard work, in addition to extortion demands from local tribal leaders, the Taliban or both. The inability to overcome this ancient culture of corruption and extortion is causing decades of progress to visibly crumble and disappear. This is why in the 21 st century Afghanistan still has no railroads and few highways. All of the neighbors have had such modern amenities for over a century but for numerous social and political reasons Afghanistan remains a more violent and primitive place.

Plague and Panic

The covid19 related recession is expected to shrink GDP by 5-6 percent. This is down from estimates made a few months earlier for a 5-7 percent decline . Neighbor Pakistan is also seen as suffering less damage with 2-3 percent reduction in GDP for 2020. There is less economic activity in Afghanistan because of uncertainty, especially regarding the Taliban peace talks. Many Afghans fear any such peace deal will make the situation worse and lead to more chaos and another civil war.

Most urban and many rural Afghans support the current stability, provided by American removal of the Taliban government in 2001. That was followed with billions a year in American financial aid. Since 2001 the economy continues to grow and corruption slowly declines. The reality is that getting Afghanistan into the 20th century, much less the 21st, will take several decades of effort and since 2001 there have been barely two decades of changes. Continued progress is uncertain because of the drug gangs and Pakistan. The most harmful foreign influence is the Pakistani backed Afghan Taliban. There is also a Pakistan Taliban that is trying to impose a religious dictatorship on Pakistan. The security forces and political parties in Pakistan exert much more control than their counterparts in Afghanistan

Most Afghans are well aware that in many ways their lives are much better since the Americans arrived and the Taliban were deposed. GDP has grown continuously since 2001 with average family income increasing noticeably each year. GDP grew 2.9 percent in 2019 and was expected to do 3.3 percent in 2020, unless the civil war broke out. No Taliban related civil war yet but the unexpected covid19 did some damage.

In early 2001 only a million children were in school, all of them boys. Now there are over nine million in school and 40 percent are girls. Back then there were only 10,000 phones in the country, all very expensive land lines in cities. Now there are over 22 million inexpensive cell phones with access even in remote rural areas. Back then less than ten percent of the population had access to any health care, now a least 80 percent do and life expectancy has risen from 47 years (the lowest in Eurasia) to 62 (leaving Bangladesh to occupy last place). This is apparently the highest life expectancy has ever been in Afghanistan and the UN noted it was the highest one decade increase ever recorded. Afghans have noticed this even if the rest of the world has not.

All this progress was accompanied by more corruption because now there was more to steal. Recently that included money allocated to deal with covid19. This is no surprise to many Afghans who feel the corruption situation wont show significant improvements, at least in their lifetimes, so many Afghans leave if they can.

More economic growth leads to more rural Afghans arming and defending themselves against Taliban and bandit threats. During 2019 there were 18 percent fewer civilians killed by terrorist violence. The Taliban was responsible for 71 percent, the security forces 14 percent, five percent by ISIL (Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant) and nine percent by unknown perpetrators. For most of 2019 it looked like the annual total would be higher but Taliban violence against civilians (and in general) greatly declined in the last three months of the year. The Taliban concentrated on hurting Americans, which was a lot more dangerous for the Taliban. In 2020 civilian casualties continued to decline, mainly because the Taliban were concentrating their attacks on the Afghan security forces and foreign troops. The Taliban continued to cause most of the civilian casualties.

The Usual Suspects

There are significant regional differences in many respects. The Taliban is a largely Pushtun organization and the Pushtuns, about 36 percent of the 31 million Afghans, dominate the south. Most of the exiles to Iran and Pakistan during the 1980s were Pushtun. As a result of this, and less violence in the north and west, the Tajiks now comprise the same percent of the population as the Pushtuns. During the late 1990s civil war, after the Pakistan armed and recruited the Taliban, the one part of Afghanistan the Taliban could never conquer was the Tajik northeast. If there is another civil war the Tajiks will again be the main opponent for the Pushtun Taliban. The Tajiks have allies including other minorities, especially Turkmen, Uzbeks and Mongols (Hazara). The Tajik and Pushtun are often called eastern Iranians because they are, like the Iranians, also Indo-European, as are most people in northern India and Pakistan. The Tajiks differ from the Pushtun in being less warlike, less religiously fanatic and more amenable to education and progress in general. Perhaps even more important is that the Tajiks have largely abandoned the use of tribes as a political organization. The Pushtun are still very much into tribal power.

One major complication with the peace negotiations is that a major faction, Pakistan, cannot officially be acknowledged. Pakistan officially maintains that this is not true. Technically that is correct because its not the government of Pakistan but the Pakistani military and its ISI intelligence service that supports and maintains Pakistani interference in Afghan affairs. It is important to note that when Britain dissolved its Indian (including what is now Pakistan, Bangladesh, Burma and Sri Lanka) colonial government, the new nations emerged as quite different. One major difference was how these new nations handled their armed forces. India ensured that the military remained subservient to the elected government. That did not happen in Pakistan or Burma and that meant the military frequently took control of the government. While Pakistan is technically run by an elected government, that government cannot do anything the military disagrees with. With regard to Afghanistan the Pakistani military has a foreign policy towards Afghanistan that supersedes anything the politicians come up with or agree to.

The Pakistani military have always seen Afghanistan has an unstable region that posed a potential threat to Pakistan. Historically this was true. Massive invasions and tribal raids have been coming out of Afghanistan and into India (and Iran) for thousands of years. While India was always a potential (and unlikely) invader, the threat from Afghanistan was real and constant. Most Pakistanis recognized this threat and there was never a lot of popular opposition towards the Pakistani militarys actions towards Afghanistan. That continues to the present. For the Afghan Taliban it means they are very dependent on the good will of the Pakistani military to survive. In fact, it was the Pakistani ISI that created the Afghan Taliban in the mid-1990s as a way to end the civil war that had been going on since the Russians left in the late 1980s.

The ISI found that it did not have enough control over the Taliban to prevent the September 11, 2001 attacks and the unwanted American intervention in Afghan and Pakistani affairs. The Americans and the Afghan Northern Alliance chased he Taliban out of Afghanistan by the end of 2001. The ISI made the best of the situation and provided the Afghan Taliban with a sanctuary in northwest Pakistan, just across the border from Helmand and Kandahar provinces, which was where most of the worlds heroin was produced and where most of the original Taliban (recruited in Pakistan refugee camps) came from. The drug gangs, which had provided the Taliban with most of their income during the late 1990s, continued to pay the Taliban after 2001 as both the drug gangs and Taliban survived because of support from the Pakistani military. That support included allowing essential chemicals (for converting opium into heroin) into Afghanistan and allowing most of the heroin to be exported via Pakistani ports (naval and air) to world markets. The exiled Taliban provided the muscle while Taliban leaders maintained their 1990s relationships with the drug gang leaders and the Pushtun tribes.

Pakistan sees itself as the main beneficiary of the ongoing Afghan peace talks between the Pakistan-controlled Taliban, the United States and the elected Afghan government. The stated objective of the Taliban is to replace the current government with a Taliban controlled religious dictatorship. That means there will be no peace and any Pakistanis with knowledge of what has gone on in Afghanistan since the 1970s can see how this will end. Worst case is all foreign troops leaving and foreign aid is withdrawn because of the corruption. In that situation Afghanistan returns to its traditional (over the last few thousand years) condition. That means the country/region we call Afghanistan gets picked apart by more powerful neighboring states. Traditionally this has meant Persians and Indians. Now it is Iranians and Pakistanis, who are basically Indian Moslems who demanded their own Moslem state when India was created in 1947. Pakistan is broke and economically dependent on China. The Chinese dont want their numerous investments in Pakistan attacked by Islamic terrorists, tribal separatists or anyone else. Pakistan justifies (to China) the expense of meddling in Afghanistan because it is necessary to control the Pushtun minority in Pakistan. There are twice as many Pushtun in Pakistan as in Afghanistan but Pakistan has a much larger non-Tribal (Punjabi and Sindi) population so the Pushtuns are only 15 percent of all Pakistanis. The Baluchi tribes account for another four percent. That makes about 19 percent of Pakistanis tribal and not particularly happy with the Chinese presence or the brutal treatment of tribal people in Pakistan. Extending that brutal control to Afghanistan wont improve anything in Pakistan.

Iran, which historically controlled, when it was profitable to do so, much of western Afghanistan did so at the same times the northern Indians controlled eastern Afghanistan and Kabul. This foreign occupation was expensive because the tribes were constantly fighting the foreigners and each other. When the once lucrative Silk Road trade route between China and the Middle East/Europe fell out of use by the 1700s because of cheaper travel via European ships, Afghanistan went back to being a region without a unifying government. That changed in the 18th century when the various tribes agreed to declare a kingdom of Afghanistan mainly to keep the foreigners out. A Pushtun king in Kabul justified his job by negotiating with foreigners and providing a neutral space for quarreling tribes to send leaders to try and negotiate an end to a mutually destructive tribal feuds. Taliban leaders say they want to unite Afghanistan as a caliphate (Islamic religious dictatorship). That fact that caliphates have never worked well or maintained any unity for long is seen as irrelevant. To the Taliban it is Gods Will that Afghanistan become a caliphate. Its one of those non-negotiable things that kaffirs (non-Moslems) simply cannot comprehend.

Neither Pakistan nor Iran see any profit in annexing adjacent portions of Afghanistan. While Pakistan, or at least the Pakistani military, is content to tax Afghan drug operations that need access to Pakistan, the Iranians, like most civilians in the region, see the opium and heroin coming out if Afghanistan as something evil that much be fought. That means the Afghan/Iran border has long been a combat zone between Iranian security forces and armed Afghan drug smugglers.

Americans want to be done with the military and economic costs of having troops in Afghanistan. The problem with that attitude is that Americans can leave Afghanistan but Afghanistan wont leave America. The heroin production will continue and major Islamic terrorist groups will have a sanctuary from which to plan attacks on the West, especially the United States.

Golden Opportunities

While the government is restricted by laws, mainly foreign and international, when seeking revenue, the Taliban and other outlaw organizations profit from all those laws by ignoring them. While the major source of Taliban revenue is money from drug gangs for protecting production and distribution (to foreign markets) of heroin, the Taliban seeks similar protection for pay arrangements wherever there is a profitable enterprise. It does not matter if the enterprise is legal or not, they all need protection from the ever-present violence that is an ancient Afghan tradition. As a result the warlords and gangsters collect more in taxes from Afghans and foreigners than the government does. About $5-6 billion a year is collected throughout the country and the government gets about 40 percent of it. The rest goes to various gangsters and warlords, with the Taliban taking the majority of the illegal taxes.

Pakistan plays a key role in the Afghan illegal mining operations, providing a reliable source of equipment and a means of exporting the gems and ores. Despite over a decade of Afghan government efforts to introduce large scale commercial mining operations, local politics and lack of law and order in the countryside ensured that all of these efforts failed.

The lack of government support has not prevented mining activity in Afghanistan to grow. From very little in 2001, mining now produces nearly a billion dollars of sales a year. Nearly all of it is illegal and similar to the outlaw mining so common in much of Africa and parts of Southeast Asia. Criminals and legitimate businesses in Pakistan make the illegal mining profitable for all concerned, except the Afghan government.

There is little foreign economic investment because of the violence and corruption. Even China, which is very active in illegal mining and logging activities in central Africa and southeast Asia, is dissuaded by the hostile atmosphere in Afghanistan.

The government initially made it possible for foreign firms to establish mining operations in areas that were long known to have gold deposits. It takes expertise and a lot of money to build commercial mining operations that can extract the gold profitably. But these commercial mines attract enterprising locals who realize the foreigners have located a major gold deposit and the locals will often dig tunnels near the commercial operation and extract what gold they can. This is profitable enough, especially during the cold weather when other work is not available, to attract a lot of rural Afghans. In the last decade hundreds of illegal miners were killed or injured when their the poorly built tunnels collapsed. These legal and illegal mining operations also attract the Taliban who try to extort payments to protect the miners from Taliban attacks or government interference.

The mining potential for Afghanistan was enormous and a 2015 study of the new and booming mining industry revealed that the biggest obstacle to making this effort grow was corruption. Most of the contracts for foreign investment in massive mining projects have gone to well-connected government and tribal officials. This includes a few people with Taliban connections. That means these enterprises will be poorly run and constantly plundered by special interests. In the meantime, there is a lot of illegal mining going on. There are over 2,000 illegal mines operating throughout Afghanistan and these have grown so numerous that legal mining has declined. The major problem legal mining encounters is poor security and infrastructure which is sustained by lots of corruption. Small, private mines increased production, as did illegal mines. Since 2010 there have been efforts to get large-scale legal mining operations going. While there are believed to be over a trillion dollars of minerals underground, you need an honest and efficient government before foreign firms will invest tens of billions to set up the large mines and build roads and railroads to get the goodies out, and equipment in. These mines would generate tremendous revenue for the government and lots of good jobs. That won't happen as long as the drug gangs dominate the south and corruption is the norm.

This is actually old news, as there have been several surveys of the country since World War II and the mineral deposits were, at least among geologists, common knowledge. Some have tried to get large scale operations going and all, so far, have failed. But because of American encouragement in 2010 the Afghan government called for foreign firms to make offers. There was some interest but the mining companies soon encountered the same fate of past efforts (corruption and lack of infrastructure). Meanwhile the small-scale mines continue with the expensive assistance of the criminal underground.

While a few large gangs and warlords control the heroin business, there are other illegal enterprises available to local hustlers. Illegal mining has proved to be the most popular alternative to illegal drug production and smuggling. Most Afghans disapprove of the opium and heroin production because it has created over two million addicts in Afghanistan and even more in Pakistan and Iran. While illegal mining entails some risk of death, that is considered much less a problem than drug addiction and misery and shame this brings to the family of the addicts.

September 22, 2020: About 81,000 Afghan refugees returned from Iran in July. Far fewer returned from Pakistan. In the last year half a million refugees returned, over 9o percent of them from Iran, with a small but growing number from Turkey and Western nations deporting illegal migrants. About half the returnees from Iran are being forced out.
A homeless woman who slit a civil servants throat as she walked home from work in Dublin in an unprovoked attack has failed in her attempt to overturn her conviction for attempted murder.

The Court of Appeal has dismissed the appeal by Laura Kenna (37), against her convictions for the attempted murder and assault causing harm of Fionnuala Bourke on the Lower Drumcondra Road in Dublin on January 3, 2017.

The court also threw out a separate appeal by Kenna against the severity of the sentence imposed on her by the Central Criminal Court in April 2019 following a jury trial.

The ruling means Kenna must serve the 10-year jail sentence handed by the Central Criminal Court after Ms Justice Tara Burns imposed a 15-year prison term but suspended the final five years. Kenna is of no fixed abode, but grew up in Celbridge and has lived in Prosperous in the past.

Kenna, who was subsequently diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder, had pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity for her attack on the Department of Social Protection civil servant.

Ms Bourke was repeatedly stabbed and had her throat cut by Kenna who demanded her victims handbag before fleeing to a nearby train station where she took a train to Maynooth.

During an interview with gardai following her arrest, after she presented herself at Tallaght Garda station the day after the assault, Kenna claimed she had killed Ms Bourke and sliced her like you would a goat.

Kenna later claimed she had wanted to kill someone and had intended eating her victim.

Counsel for Kenna, Barry White SC, had claimed the convictions were unsafe on the basis the evidence given by the prosecutions main expert witness, Professor Harry Kennedy, the executive clinical director of the Central Mental Hospital, that she was not legally insane at the time of the incident was fundamentally flawed, inadequate and contradicted by other evidence.

Prof Kennedys evidence clashed with the testimony of the defences expert witness, Dr Stephen Monks, a psychiatrist, who concluded that Kenna was suffering from a mental disorder at the time.

Mr White claimed Prof Kennedys evidence was partial, inaccurate and lacked a thorough assessment of the relevant evidential material.

The Court of Appeal heard that Kenna had been found not guilty by reason of insanity for a separate assault which had occurred two weeks before the attack on Ms Bourke when she tried to stab a woman in the eye with a pen at a Luas stop.

Both Prof Kennedy and Dr Monks had agreed on her condition at the time of that incident.

The president of the Court of Appeal, Mr Justice George Birmingham, presiding, with Justice Patrick McCarthy and Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy, said the jury had faced an unenviable task given the conflicting opinions of two eminent consultant psychiatrists.

While undoubtedly there was material which might have resulted in the jury returning a verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity, equally there was material supported by credible expert testimony which provided a basis for returning a verdict of guilty, Mr Justice Birmingham said.

Dismissing Kennas appeal against conviction, the judge said it was not for the Court of Appeal to second-guess the decision reached by the jury.

On the severity of Kennas sentence, Mr White had argued that a greater discount from the headline sentence of 17 years should have been allowed given her significant mental health problems.

Mr White also argued that there was a high risk that Kenna would be required to serve the suspended element of her sentence given her history of homelessness and drug addiction.

However, the Court of Appeal said the sentencing judge had adopted an entirely proper approach for an offence of the utmost gravity involving the attempted murder of a complete stranger.

Rejecting the appeal, Mr Justice Birmingham said Mr Justice Burns had made no error in principle as the headline sentence could not have been less than 17 years and could even have been higher.
The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has warned businesses and the general public to desist from selling the country's currency, the cedi and pesewa coins or face prosecution.



It said such an act was illegal and punishable by summary conviction to a term of imprisonment up to 10 years or a fine not exceeding 2,000 penalty units or both.



In a public notice issued to the public today, Thursday, the central bank said any trading of the currency regardless of the purpose was criminal and, therefore, prohibited.



In the notice signed by the Secretary to the bank, Ms Sandra Thompson, the bank said the warning applied to persons trading the currency online or otherwise.



It said the public notice was after its attention had been drawn to the trading of Ghana cedi notes and coins currently in circulation as legal tender on online platforms.



"The Bank of Ghana wishes to inform and remind the general public, that it is the only institution with the right to issue and redeem Ghana cedi notes and coins in Ghana, according to Article 183 (1) of the 1992 Constitution and section 35 of the Bank of Ghana Act, 2002 (Act 612) as amended,"it said.



"It is, therefore, illegal for any person or institution to buy or sell the Ghana cedi notes or coins currently in circulation, regardless of the purpose or intent for such trading."



"Any person who buys or sells or offers or attempts to buy or sell any Ghana Cedi note or coin at or for a lower rate than its face value or for an amount exceeding the face value, commits an offense and would be liable upon summary conviction to a term of imprisonment not exceeding ten (10) years, or to a fine not exceeding two thousand (2000) penalty units or both, in accordance with the Currency Act, 1964 (Act 242) as amended," the notice said.



"The Bank of Ghana, therefore informs the general public that all persons engaged in the activity of selling (online or otherwise) of Ghana Cedi notes or coins currently in circulation, must desist from doing so immediately, and are prohibited from further engaging in such trades, with immediate effect," it added.



It, however stated that the warning was not applicable to persons who engaged in" money exchange for the purpose of making some denominations available to others who need them."









Source: graphic.com.gh









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
Leader in recruitment technology evolves strategy, solutions, and brand to better reflect how it supports global employers to build diverse and winning teams

HOLMDEL, New Jersey, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- iCIMS today introduced the iCIMS Talent Cloud, delivering a unified, AI-powered platform that empowers employers to attract, engage, hire, and advance the right talent that builds a diverse, winning workforce. The company also unveiled its reimagined brand identity and launched its new Customer Community, comprised of thousands of talent innovators from around the world.

"We are thrilled to launch iCIMS' new solution and brand to support employers as they navigate this new era of work," said Steve Lucas, CEO of iCIMS. "With Talent Cloud, iCIMS is leading from the front, doubling down on innovation to arm our customers with the best technology, critical data insights, and the industry's strongest community of customers and partners to support them in the next generation of work."

More than 4,000 employers across the globe, representing a workforce of 30 million people, including Indeed, Lloyds Bank, XPO Logistics, and the American Heart Association, partner with iCIMS to power their strategic talent initiatives.

"We proudly partner with iCIMS and leverage the Talent Cloud because we have a shared commitment to innovation and we know the importance of talent acquisition and having the right people in our organization," said Scott Bonneau, vice president of global talent attraction, HR analytics, and HR technology at Indeed. "iCIMS enables us to build strong teams of our own, and together, we're powering our mutual customers with flexible, collaborative, and impactful technology to help them build the workforces of tomorrow."

"While the way we work has certainly changed, one thing remains the same - an organization's success depends on its people, and talent powers transformation," said Susan Vitale, chief marketing officer of iCIMS. "This year's events have accelerated critical conversations around digital transformation and the future of work. Our new platform, along with our refreshed brand purpose, empower our customers to successfully align with evolving business strategies to overcome new challenges."

For more information on iCIMS' Talent Cloud, visit https://www.icims.com/.

Talent, technology, and business leaders are encouraged to register for iCIMS' free INSPIRE 2020 virtual event taking place Nov. 17 and 18. Attendees will get a view into iCIMS' transformative talent solutions and hear from some of the most influential speakers including Mindy Kaling, Trevor Noah, Dallas Mavericks' CEO Cynthia Marshall,Forbes Media EVP Moira Forbes, and renowned performance and wellbeing culture strategist, Jeanette Bronee.

About iCIMS, Inc.

iCIMS is the talent cloud company that empowers organizations to attract, engage, hire, and advance the right talent that builds a diverse, winning workforce. iCIMS accelerates transformation for a community of more than 4,000 customers, including a third of the Fortune 100, that employ more than 30 million people worldwide. For more information, visit www.icims.com.

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A rogue landlord who illegally rented out an overcrowded bedsit before waging a campaign of harassment against the tenants when they complained has been banned from renting out properties again.

Balazs Stalter rented out a property in Longmead Road, Tooting, to five sub-lets after turning the living room and dining room into bedsits. He had not received planning consent to make the changes and failed to register the property as a Home in Multiple Occupation.

When some of his tenants complained, Stalter tampered with their water, gas and electricity supplies  and glued up their locks.

He even posted fake and negative online reviews of the company owned by the family of one of his tenants, for which he received a police warning.

In court Stalter produced a tenancy agreement which contained the signature of one his tenants confirming that the room he rented was not his permanent residence.

However, the tenant in question had returned to his native New Zealand by the time the agreement was signed. The document was fraudulent and the signature forged.

Stalter was fined was fined 1,858 and ordered to pay the councils prosecution costs of 2,089 plus a victim surcharge of 170. He was also banned from operating as a landlord.

Last week he appealed his conviction, but it was thrown out of Kingston Crown Court when the tenant whose signature was forged testified from New Zealand that he had never seen the document in question and had never signed it.

Stalter was forced to pay a further 3,818 in costs.

Wandsworths cabinet member for housing Cllr Kim Caddy said: By his own disgraceful and unacceptable behaviour Mr Stalter has shown he is an unfit person to be a landlord. Im delighted weve been able to take concerted action in the courts to not only secure justice for his tenants but to prevent him victimising any others in the future.
To bring back memories of your schooldays, theres nothing quite like the sight of your old exercise books. This holds true whether you went to school in Ghana in the 2010s, Italy in the 90s, France in the 80s, China in the 70s, Japan in the 60s, or India in the 50s. All of these examples and many more have come available to view at the Exercise Book Archive, an ever-growing, participatory archive of old exercise books that allows everyone to discover the history, education, and daily life of children and youth of the past. All of the entries include the relevant books front cover  already a Proustian viewing experience for any who had them growing up  and some feature scans of the interior pages, student writing and all.

One girls notebook describes the bombing of her small town in 1940s Switzerland, writes Collectors Weeklys Hunter Oatman-Stanford. Another boys journal chronicles daily life in rural Pennsylvania during the 1890s; the diary of a Chinese teenager recounts his experiences in prison during the 1980s. The article quotes Thomas Pololi, co-founder of the organization behind the Exercise Book Archive, on the historical value of books containing compositions about war, propaganda, or political events that we now recognize as terrible.





But in the narration of children, there is often enthusiasm about the swastika in Germany, or the Duce in Italy (dictator Benito Mussolini), or for Mao in China. (Thanks to the work of volunteers, these and other exercise-book writings have been transcribed and translated into English.)

These young students tended to see the positive side of traumatic things, perhaps because their main goal is to grow up, and they needed to do it the world they lived in. Their exercise books thus offer reflections of their societies, in not just content but design as well: In Spain or in China, for example, you see beautiful illustrations of propaganda themes. They are often aesthetically appealing because they were meant to persuade children to do or think something. Educational trends also come through: Before, there were mainly exercises of calligraphy with dictated sentences about how you have to behave in your life, with phrases like Emulation seldom fails,' which to Pololis mind implies that if you are yourself, you risk failing. Thats the opposite of what we teach children nowadays.

Somehow the most mundane of these student compositions can also be among the most interesting. Take the journal of a group of Finnish girl scouts from the early 1950s. The train to Leppavaara arrived quickly, writes the author of one entry from April 1950. At the station it started to rain. We walked to the youth house, where we sang Exalt the joy etc. Then we went to the sauna where we had to be. We sang and prayed. We then ate some sandwiches. Could she have possibly imagined people all around the world reading of this girl-scout day trip with great interest seventy years later? And what would the young man doing his penmanship nearly a quarter-millennium ago in Shropshire think if he know how eager we were to look at his exercise book? Better us than his schoolmaster, no doubt. Enter the Exercise Book Archive here.

via Collectors Weekly

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Based in Seoul, Colin Marshall writes and broadcasts on cities, language, and culture. His projects include the Substack newsletter Books on Cities, the book The Stateless City: a Walk through 21st-Century Los Angeles and the video series The City in Cinema. Follow him on Twitter at @colinmarshall, on Facebook, or on Instagram.
A study in mice conducted by the UAB shows that social isolation worsens the effects of Alzheimer's disease, with hyperactivity levels reaching up to twice as much as in the pathology itself

- The research also confirms an increase in the asymmetric atrophy of the hippocampus, a brain area central to memory

- The study was published in a special edition of Frontiers in Psychiatry entitled Death and Mourning Processes in the Times of the Coronavirus Pandemic (COVID-19), dedicated to assessing the effects of this pandemic

Researchers at the Department of Psychiatry and Legal Medicine and at the Institut de Neurociencies (INc) of the Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona (UAB) have conducted a study which allows estimating, from the viewpoint of translational neuroscience, the effects of isolation in the current pandemic scenarios in elderly patients with dementia. The findings also may serve as a guide to the rethinking of vital conditions after the Covid-19 crisis. The study was published in Frontiers in Psychiatry, in a special edition of Frontiers in Psychiatry entitled Death and Mourning Processes in the Times of the Coronavirus Pandemic (COVID-19), dedicated to assessing the effects of this pandemic.

The researchers analysed the effects of isolation in male mice models suffering from advanced stages of Alzheimer's disease through a series of behavioural tests, which could be compared to several areas found in elderly residence homes. They compared these results with mice models of Alzheimer's that were not isolated, and with other healthy animal models undergoing a normal ageing process. The study was conducted with male mice because these are more affected by Covid-19 and are also the ones to show more deterioration of the neuro-immuno-endocrine system and worse survival conditions when suffering dementia.

The main findings demonstrate that isolation exacerbates hyperactivity up to twice as normal in mice with Alzheimer's disease, and also causes the appearance of strange behaviours. This increase was demonstrated consistently in the gross motor skills, related to the movement of arms, legs, feet or the entire body. However, it also affected fine motor skills, small movements made by hands, wrists, fingers, toes, lips and tongue. The isolated animals showed emotional patterns comparable to anxiety and changes in their stress management strategies.

"The results are concerning, given that anxiety is one of the main neuropsychiatric symptoms associated with dementia, which produces a large burden on the caregiver and, in some cases, makes clinical management a challenge", points out Aida Muntsant, first autor of the research, which is included as part of her PhD thesis.

Effects of isolation on memory

Researchers also analysed the effects of isolation on other neuropathological variables, and obtained different results. "Although the characteristic variables of the disorder, like taupathy, were not modified, some others such as asymmetric hippocampal atrophy increased with isolation. This dysfunction was recently described in human patients with dementia and modelled here for the first time with animal models of Alzheimer's disease. The finding is important, given that asymmetry has been linked to greater vulnerability to stress factors", states Lydia Gimenez-Llort, Professor in Psychiatry and researcher at the INc directing the study.

The study also confirmed that the mice suffering from Alzheimer's disease lost body and renal mass, effects which also have been observed in Covid-19 patients, although the loss was greater with those in isolation. The loss in spleen mass, an important organ of the peripheral immune system, was only observed in isolated animals.

Rethinking isolation among the elderly

"Thinking of what the post-Covid-19 era will be like for the elderly implies a great deal of effort in redesigning all conditions of life, interventions in care and rehabilitation, and the management of forced solitude as part of new physical distancing measures. Therefore, it is necessary and urgent to estimate the impact these measures will have on the more vulnerable elderly population, such as those suffering from dementia", the researchers point out.

The study also highlights the need for personalised interventions adapted to the heterogeneous and complex clinical profile of people with dementia, and to consider how all of this affects the obligations of caregivers, whether they be professionals or members of the patient's family.

###

The results of the study form part of Aida Muntsant's PhD thesis and are a product of the research led by Lydia Gimenez-Llort, under the framework of the project ArrestAD H2020 Fet-OPEN-1-2016-2017-737390, led by Dulce Papy of the Paris-Est Creteil University, UPEC.
WNS Global Services group CEO and former NASSCOM (a not-for-profit industry association) chairperson Keshav R Murugesh spoke to Chitkara University students on The new normal: What to stop, start and accelerate on Thursday.

He offered students advice on how to build an illustrious career. He told students to start having an effective game plan for skill and capability development, multi-skill oneself and develop out-of-the-box thinking and flexibility. He told them to stop waiting for the green signal for to getting to normal and embrace the new way of working and to accelerate ones agility to reflect, reboot, and reinvent oneself.

Murugesh has been at the helm of global majors such as Syntel and ITC (an affiliate of BAT Plc) and chaired the NASSCOM BPM Council for two consecutive terms. (HT Photo )

An expert in his domain, he is popularly known as the Turnaround Turk. He has been responsible for executing business strategy and directing the overall performance and growth of at least 43,000 employees across 16 countries. Murugesh has been at the helm of global majors such as Syntel and ITC (an affiliate of BAT Plc) and chaired the NASSCOM BPM Council for two consecutive terms.

Murugesh is credited with rewriting the Business Process Management (BPM) industry rules with the first verticalised model. He has also led the industry rebranding campaign Become World Worthy and created a conducive ecosystem for building the talent pool through closer ties between industry and academia.

During his stint as NASSCOM chairperson (2019-20), he led the efforts to nurture Indias innovation quotient, talent development, and global trade development. He also led the initiative to work closely with central and state governments for work-from-home (WFH) transition for the IT-ITeS industry employees when a nation-wide lockdown was announced in March 2020 due to Covid.

Chitkara University pro-chancellor Madhu Chitkara during the webinar. (HT Photo )

He has been awarded the executive of the year Award by Stevie International Business Awards, Outstanding

CEO by Asia Pacific Entrepreneurship Awards, and CNBCs Asia India Disruptor of the Year besides other notable achievements.
Vietnam welcomes countries standpoints on East Sea issue: Spokesperson

Vietnam welcomes the stance held by other countries on the East Sea issue that conforms with international law, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Le Thi Thu Hang said in response to a question from a reporter about Vietnams view of a joint note sent by the UK, France, and Germany to the UN on September 16.









Foreign Ministry spokesperson Le Thi Thu Hang (Source: VNA)



Vietnams stance on East Sea-related issues remains consistent and has been affirmed repeatedly on different occasions, Hang told the ministrys regular press briefing on October 1.



Vietnam holds that all countries share the common aspiration and target of maintaining and promoting peace, stability, cooperation, and development in the East Sea. To do that, respecting legal order at sea and enforcing the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea 1982 (UNCLOS) in an adequate and responsible manner and in good faith is crucial, she said.



Hang reiterated that Vietnam shares the standpoint as stated in the 36th ASEAN Summits declaration and the 53rd ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meetings joint communique, which affirm that UNCLOS is the legal framework regulating all activities in seas and oceans.



In this spirit, together with ASEAN member states, Vietnam hopes that all countries, including ASEANs partners, will exert efforts to maintain peace, stability, and cooperation in the East Sea and resolve disputes through dialogue and peaceful measures in accordance with international law for the common interest and expectations of all countries in the region and the international community, Hang said.



Once more, I want to affirm that Vietnam always contributes actively and responsibly to this process.



Recently, Philippine Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. said that his country will try to complete the second negotiation round over the Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC) before passing on its role as Coordinator of China-ASEAN Dialogue Relations this year.



Regarding this matter, the Foreign Ministry spokesperson said that resuming the COC talks after their suspension because of COVID-19 is a priority for ASEAN member states and China.



Vietnam hopes to, together with relevant parties, resume talks to soon achieve a thorough and effective COC that is in accordance with international law and UNCLOS.
It was love at first sight for Michele D'Alpaos and Paola Agnelli.

D'Alpaos, 38, and Agnelli, 40, have lived across from each other in Verona, Italy, for years, but didn't "meet" until D'Alpaos saw Agnelli out on her balcony one evening in mid-March. "I was immediately struck by the beauty of this girl, by her smile," D'Alpaos told The Washington Post. "I had to know her."

Agnelli was standing outside with her sister, who played the violin nightly as a way to cheer up her neighbors amid the coronavirus pandemic. When D'Alpaos caught her eye, it was "a magical moment," she said. D'Alpaos' sister told him she knew Agnelli from their gym, and gave him her name. He immediately found her on Instagram, and struck up a conversation.

They messaged each other for hours, before moving onto texting and then phone calls. Agnelli said they felt an immediate connection, and as they got to know each other, she learned they shared "the values you could build a relationship on." D'Alpaos sent Agnelli flowers and wrote "Paola" on an old bedsheet that he hung from his apartment complex, and they counted the days until the lockdown would be over and they could go on their first in-person date.

After 10 weeks, the lockdown in Verona was lifted, and they were able to meet in a local park. They have since become engaged, and look forward to moving into their own apartment and starting a family. Agnelli told the Post she believes this was meant to be, as her late grandfather was also named Michele: "Many times, I think that it was he who sent me Michele, with the same name, the same kindness, the same sympathy and intelligence."

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Please click here to view the 2020 Midstream Oil and Gas Cybersecurity Survey video.

The results reflect the responses of 125 key executives, security and compliance officers, and general counsel, and confirm that cybersecurity remains a top concern for the midstream sector of the oil and gas industry  especially as companies grapple with the worldwide economic downturn, the reduction in commodity prices, and the increased dependence on remote work and autonomous systems due to the global COVID-19 pandemic.

This survey is Jones Walker's second on the topic of cybersecurity. The first was in 2018 and focused on maritime, another critical infrastructure industry. Jones Walker attorneys Andy Lee, Krystal Scott, and Ewaen Woghiren authored a report outlining the key findings of the firm's Midstream Oil and Gas Cybersecurity Survey.

Speaking about the survey, Lee, partner and chair of Jones Walker's privacy and data security team, says, "Similar to the 2018 survey, the Midstream Oil and Gas Cybersecurity Survey found that smaller companies are particularly vulnerable to cyber attacks. These businesses typically do not have appropriate breach response plans, and hackers are looking to take advantage of their weaknesses."

Key findings of the Jones Walker Midstream Oil and Gas Cybersecurity Survey include:

Avoid overconfidence. Although the majority of respondents believe that both the midstream sector and their own companies are prepared for a cyber attack, more than one in 10 suffered a successful breach.

Although the majority of respondents believe that both the midstream sector and their own companies are prepared for a cyber attack, more than one in 10 suffered a successful breach. Know your enemies. To address cyber vulnerabilities effectively, companies must understand who and what they face. The survey respondents pointed to organized criminal groups as the top threat actors and to their own employees' negligence as a source of major concern.

To address cyber vulnerabilities effectively, companies must understand who and what they face. The survey respondents pointed to organized criminal groups as the top threat actors and to their own employees' negligence as a source of major concern. Plan and practice for success. Survey results indicate that cybersecurity plans are not up to the task because they are either outdated or not practiced. Across all companies in the survey, 40% reported an attempted or successful data breach in the past year, but only 7% updated their written security policy during the same period.

Survey results indicate that cybersecurity plans are not up to the task because they are either outdated or not practiced. Across all companies in the survey, 40% reported an attempted or successful data breach in the past year, but only 7% updated their written security policy during the same period. Match resources to the threat. Existing cybersecurity measures at midstream companies are varied and often do not correlate directly to their identified vulnerabilities. Companies indicated an increased focus on cybersecurity, yet only 38% of respondents will increase their cybersecurity budget this year. Further, despite increased vulnerability to cyber attacks during the COVID-19 pandemic, when more employees work remotely and often utilize a mix of personal and company-issued technology, 74% still do not have cyber insurance or cyber-breach insurance coverage.

Existing cybersecurity measures at midstream companies are varied and often do not correlate directly to their identified vulnerabilities. Companies indicated an increased focus on cybersecurity, yet only 38% of respondents will increase their cybersecurity budget this year. Further, despite increased vulnerability to cyber attacks during the COVID-19 pandemic, when more employees work remotely and often utilize a mix of personal and company-issued technology, 74% still do not have cyber insurance or cyber-breach insurance coverage. Partnering is sound strategy. Many companies work in isolation and do not take advantage of opportunities and cost efficiencies offered through industry collaboration and public-private partnerships.

"Despite the fact that there have been successful cyber attacks in the past year and that employees are considered a top threat, midstream companies still lack sufficient employee cybersecurity training  only 37% of respondents conduct annual trainings," adds Scott, partner and co-leader of the firm's energy and natural resources litigation team. "While employees pose a heightened risk to cybersecurity today due to increased remote-work conditions in response to COVID-19, a majority of midstream companies are not increasing cybersecurity budgets in the coming year. This may prove detrimental to the sector's ability to thwart cyber attacks."

Discussing a key finding, Woghiren, an associate on the energy and natural resources litigation team, says, "Sixty-eight percent of respondents indicated having cybersecurity plans included in their overarching strategic plans, and leadership participation in developing and executing these plans is high. However, a clear majority of companies reported that they do not have dedicated senior staff focused on cybersecurity. This lack of cybersecurity personnel is problematic, as their skills are necessary to avoid and combat increasingly complex cyber attacks."

The 2020 Midstream Oil and Gas Cybersecurity Survey is available for download on the Jones Walker website. To read what industry professionals are saying about the report, visit the Insider Commentary Resource Page.

About Jones Walker

Jones Walker LLP (joneswalker.com) is among the largest 120 law firms in the United States. With offices in Alabama, Arizona, the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, New York, and Texas, we serve local, regional, national, and international business interests. The firm is committed to providing a comprehensive range of legal services to major multinational, public and private corporations, Fortune 500 companies, money center banks, worldwide insurers, and emerging companies doing business in the United States and abroad.

Contact info: Helen Bone, [email protected], 225.772.5270

SOURCE Jones Walker LLP

Related Links

http://www.joneswalker.com


The University of Kentucky partnered with Signet on the innovative P3 campus expansion project, "The Cornerstone" The University was a great partner, bringing significant expertise, flexibility and professionalism as complex challenges were navigated.

Revitalizing one of the main corridors into the University of Kentucky's campus, the facility bridges the University and the Lexington community. Spanning 308,269 square feet with a total construction cost of approximately $35,000,000, The Cornerstone includes an innovation lab, E-Sports Gaming Lounge & Theater, locally focused food hall, and parking garage.

The Public-Private Partnership model allowed UK to transfer the associated risks of delivering a project of this nature - including financing, construction, and project delivery - to Signet while maintaining approval control from a design, budget, timeline and use perspective. UK will be the eventual owner of the project and Signet will inject equity in the retail portion, serving as the long-term manager. Transferring this risk and associated workload for this scale of project allowed the University to maintain the allocation of its resources to what is ultimately the driving success of the University - excellence in teaching, research, healthcare, cultural enrichment, and economic development.

Signets financial expertise and inhouse broker-dealer, with a municipal finance background, added considerable value in identifying the financing structure and team for the project, said David Fumi, Managing Director of Signet Capital. The financing process took a remarkable effort by all parties involved. Having a well-established relationship with both Frost Brown Todd (Underwriters Counsel) and KeyBanc Capital Markets (COPs Underwriter) provided confidence in the teams ability to secure funding. The University was a great partner, bringing significant expertise, flexibility and professionalism as complex challenges were navigated.

After exploring several financing solutions and associated pricing to support this project, UK and Signet landed on a Certificates of Participation (COPs) structure. This innovative approach was the first time a public education system in Kentucky utilized this structure, and it aligned well with the goals of the University. The tax-exempt component of the COPs structure substantially lowered the overall cost of capital for the University, allowing UK to receive the benefits of transferring a large portion of risk and workload to Signet, while maintaining a low cost of capital similar to if the University issued bonds directly. The project was a true win-win by utilizing the strengths and expertise of both the private and public sectors, said Fumi.

One of the nuances that required expert navigation was the challenge of how to bifurcate the project so the retail component would allow for Signet to both inject equity and secure financing for the completion and management of the retail space. The final partnership structure between Signet and UK for the retail was a pivotal component to support the social infrastructure of the University and the success of this project. Including retail in this key corridor between downtown and the gateway of the University made sense to promote the highest and best use of land with the future in mind.

The mixed-use structure includes retail, innovation, esports, and parking components to create a distinctive center for activity, creativity, and connectivity between the community and the University:

-The Cornerstone Exchange retail space will feature exclusively locally owned restaurants in a modernized food hall, community-centered dining hub.

-The innovation zone includes flexible, collaborative space to propel solution-driven thinking and design and create new pathways for entrepreneurial fields.

-The Cornerstone Garage will add 900 new parking spaces for use by both the University and community.

-The newly named UK Federal Credit Union E-Sports Lounge and Theater will include 100 retractable theater-style seats, and an esports gamers lounge with more than 50 PC-based gaming units and multiple console-play areas.

Beyond the University of Kentucky as lessee, Signet Real Estate Group as the Lessor and developer, and Signet Capital as the financial advisor to the developer, additional partners include Frost Brown Todd as Special Counsel / Underwriters Counsel, Dinsmore & Shohl as University Counsel / Disclosure Counsel, Commonwealth Economics as Financial Advisor to University, and KeyBanc Capital Markets as COPs Underwriter. The construction team was led by F.A. Wilhelm Construction, Sherman Carter Barnhart as Architect, and Tim Haahs & Associates as Parking Consultant.

It was an outstanding team collaboration to structure and secure the financing for The Cornerstone, said Fumi. We are honored to have led the financing effort, which presents a long-lasting benefit to such a prestigious University, its faculty, students, and local community.

About Signet Capital

Signet Capital, a Signet LLC company, is a boutique investment banking and structured finance services firm with extensive experience in working with companies that have debt financing or refinancing needs. Signet Capital is able to effectively assist companies in arranging and securing financing through its strong relationships with a large number of financial institutions and other traditional and non-traditional lenders. Signet works closely with its clients to secure the most favorable borrowing terms and has been successful in working on over $5 billion of debt financings. Learn more at http://www.signet-capital.com.

About Signet Real Estate Group

Signet Real Estate Group, a Signet LLC company, is a full-service development and project management firm in the areas of higher education, health care, research, public-private partnerships, and strategic infrastructure. The company transforms complex development challenges into collaborative opportunities through a creative, flexible, and customized approach. Since the firms inception, Signet and its family of companies have successfully managed and currently have in progress more than $5 billion in real-estate development and construction throughout the U.S. Learn more at http://www.signetre.com.
Experts hoping a 'twindemic' can be avoided this winter

A record number of flu vaccine doses - between 194 million and 198 million for the U.S. alone will be administered during the autumn and winter months as experts cross their fingers that a flu-coronavirus twindemic can be avoided.

Theres considerable concern as we enter the fall and winter months and into the flu season that well have that dreaded overlap of flu and the coronavirus, Dr. Anthony Fauci of the U.S. National Institutes of Health said today.

Sanofi Pasteur, which is supplying nearly 250 million doses worldwide including 80 million for the United States, says it has shipments staggered into November.
WASHINGTON  The Trump administration will slash the number of refugees allowed to resettle in the United States to a new low next year  permitting no more than 15,000 people fleeing war, violence and persecution across the globe to make a new home in America.

The State Department announced the cap late Wednesday and shortly after President Donald Trump attacked refugees during a campaign speech in Minnesota, home to a significant immigrant population from Somalia.

"Biden will turn Minnesota into a refugee camp ... overwhelming public resources, overcrowding schools, and inundating your hospitals," Trump said of his Democratic opponent, former Vice President Joe Biden, during the rally. "It's already there. It's a disgrace what they've done to your state."

The president also singled out Rep. Ilhan Omar, a Minnesota Democrat and refugee from Somalia who he has frequently targeted. He called her "crooked," among other attacks.

Omar, who fled Somalia's civil war when she was 8 and has been an American citizen for two decades, blasted Trump as a "white supremacist" who doesn't understand Minnesota's welcoming attitude toward refugees.

"This white supremacist thinks Somali refugees are worthless, this is why he cannot accept that a district that is 2/3 white can elect a Somali refugee," she tweeted on Thursday.

Other critics also rebuked Trump for his remarks.

Video: SCOTUS rules against Trump administration regarding DACA program

"Refugees  from the Holocaust to Vietnam to Somalia  made this country great. Started businesses, enriched communities, made us better," wrote Ben Rhodes, who served as former President Barack Obama's deputy national security adviser. "Theyre much more American than this fascist lightweight."

The State Department said the 15,000 refugee limit for fiscal year 2021 reflects new concerns about immigration amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Trump froze refugee admissions in March, citing a need to protect American jobs as fallout from the coronavirus crashed the economy.

Story continues

The State Department said it anticipated processing an additional 290,000 new asylum cases, although it's not clear how many of those asylum seekers would be granted entry.

Refugees and asylum seekers must show they have been persecuted in their home country or have a well-founded fear of persecution there on account of their race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.

Refugees make their claims from abroad, while asylum seekers make their claims once they've reached the U.S.

"The presidents proposal for refugee resettlement in Fiscal Year 2021 reflects the administrations continuing commitment to prioritize the safety and well-being of Americans, especially in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic," the State Department said in its announcement.

But human rights groups and religious leaders denounced the administration's decision, saying it will further undermine America's tradition of welcoming immigrants and serving as a beacon of hope for those looking to build a new life here.

President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

The proposed refugee resettlement number of 15,000, a more than 80% cut over historic norms, is unacceptable," said Rev. John L. McCullough, president and CEO of Church World Service, which helps refugees, immigrants and other displaced individuals.

"Our values as a nation and as people of faith demand that we take action when peoples lives are in danger. But for the past three years, President Trump and his administration have strayed so far from these basic principles in the name of their cruel, racist and partisan goals that the life-saving refugee resettlement program is a shadow of what it once was," he said.

The State Department said the refugee program represents only a fraction of the Trump administration's assistance to displaced people across the globe.

"We are working to assist refugees and other displaced people as close to their homes as possible until they can safely and voluntarily return to rebuild their lives, their communities, and their countries," the statement said.

In Obama's final year in office, the annual cap on refugees was 110,000; Trump has consistently pared that down over the past four years.

Before Trump took office, the U.S. led the world in accepting refugees for decades, resettling more than 3 million people since 1980, according to the Pew Research Center.

In September, Democratic lawmakers pleaded with the Trump administration to be more generous in opening America's borders to refugees.

"Since our nations tragic failure to help Jewish refugees fleeing Hitler, the United States has set an example for the world by providing safe haven to the worlds most vulnerable people," Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., and several others wrote in a letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. "Over the past several decades, we have safely and successfully resettled millions of refugees from across the world with strong bipartisan support."

The lawmakers noted that the world is facing its worst refugee crisis ever, compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic. More than 79 million people were displaced across the globe in 2019, including an estimated 30 million children, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

Contributing: Associated Press

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump moves to slash refugee resettlement amid campaign attacks
You may not have to put up with non-removable bloatware on your phone or computer for much longer, at least in Europe. The European Union (EU) is planning to force OEMs to let users uninstall any pre-installed apps on their devices, the Financial Times reports.

The new law is a part of the upcoming Digital Services Act regulation that the EU is currently working on. The regulation, the draft of which is still in early stages, could pass by the end of this year. The Digital Services Act is reportedly the first big overhaul of the EU rules that regulate the internet in the region. The EU is hoping to set global standards on how to fight Big Tech.

EU to force OEMs to make pre-installed apps removable

Smartphones come with a plethora of pre-installed apps. These apps are loaded either by the phone maker or your carrier. While we use some of those apps pretty frequently, many of them are used by only a fraction of people who buy those phones. Worst yet, you cant even remove them. They sit there eating up the phones memory without serving any purpose to you.

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The European Union wants to change that for good. Details are scarce at the moment, but the EUs Digital Services Act regulation will rock tech giants, the report adds. Big tech companies such as Facebook and Google often strike deals with OEMs to pre-install their apps.

The draft also mentions that companies cannot force other companies to exclusively pre-install their software. The EU had fined Google for allegedly forcing phone makers to bundle its apps on their phones.

The Act would also block companies from giving preferential treatment of their own services to the detriment of rivals. Phone makers like Xiaomi and Samsung preload their own suite of apps on their Android phones even when they come with pre-installed Google alternatives.

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The Digital Services Act may see resistance from Google and others

The Digital Services Act would also require the likes of Amazon and Google to share their huge troves of customer data with smaller rivals. Such tech biggies will not be able to use data they collect from users for their own commercial activities unless they make it accessible to business users active in the same commercial activities, the draft of the new regulation reads.

Additionally, the so-called gatekeeper platforms, companies that run the sites or marketplaces that others do business on, would not be able to use data received from business users for advertising services for any other purpose other than advertising services. Googles Play Store and Apples App Store are some of the major gatekeeper platforms.

As expected, the Act is already seeing pushback from the likes of Google. The internet giant suggested that regulators shouldnt be looking to consider new and distinct regulatory frameworks just yet. Instead, the company calls for modernizing the existing rules.

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Google also doesnt want the regulators to rush to define platforms as gatekeepers. In certain sectors, the platform may have market power; in others, it may be a new entrant or marginal player. The digital ecosystem is extremely diverse and evolving rapidly and it would be misguided for gatekeeper designations to be evaluated by reference to the position of an entire company or corporate group, it said.
WASHINGTON, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- An article published in Experimental Biology and Medicine (Volume 245, Issue 16, October, 2020) (https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/1535370220949139) identifies a new biomarker for osteosarcoma. The study, led by Dr. Emel Rothzerg in the School of Biomedical Sciences at the University of The University of Western Australia, in Perth (Australia) and the Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science in Nedlands (Australia), reports an association between osteosarcoma and abnormal alternative splicing of the leptin receptor overlapping transcript (LEPROT).

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a primary malignant bone tumor with a high incidence rate in children and adolescents. Although combination therapy with surgery and chemotherapy has improved outcomes for patients, this treatment regimen is only effective in 90% of patients. The limiting factor in improving outcomes for patients with OS is a lack of understanding of the molecular mechanisms of the disease. A better understanding of the disease process would permit earlier diagnosis and development of more effective therapies, both of which would improve patient health.

In this study, Rothzerg and colleagues examined RNA splicing in paired normaltumor biopsies from osteosarcoma (OS) patients. Alternative splicing increases proteomic diversity in cells and abnormal alternative splicing has been associated with numerous cancers. Whole-transcriptome analysis identified 26 differentially expressed transcript variants of the LEPROT gene. Some of the transcripts were overexpressed in normal cells, whereas others were overexpressed in tumor cells. These findings provide strong evidence that aberrant alternative splicing events in the LEPROT gene may be a risk factor for OS. In addition, decreased LEPROT expression may contribute to the initiation and progression of OS. Dr. Rothzerg said "the LEPROT gene can be considered a biomarker and potential therapeutic target for OS".

Dr. Steven R. Goodman, Editor-in-Chief of Experimental Biology & Medicine, said "Dr. Rothzerg and colleagues have demonstrated that alternate spliced forms of LEPROT can serve as a biomarker for osteosarcoma and an association between downregulation of LEPROT expression and bone tumorigenesis. This research should lead to future studies on whether LEPROT variant expression is a target for osteosarcoma therapeutics."

Experimental Biology and Medicine is a global journal dedicated to the publication of multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary research in the biomedical sciences. The journal was first established in 1903. Experimental Biology and Medicine is the journal of the Society of Experimental Biology and Medicine. To learn about the benefits of society membership visit www.sebm.org. If you are interested in publishing in the journal, please visit http://ebm.sagepub.com.

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The Navy has removed gendered words including 'brotherhood' and 'man' from its official SEAL ethos, changing them to 'citizen' and 'warrior'.

Alterations have also been made in the Special Warfare Combatant Crewmen (SWCC) creed, American Military News reports.

One change in the first paragraph of the SEAL ethos now reads: 'I am that warrior.' It had read: 'I am that man.' Another states: 'Common citizens with uncommon desire to succeed.' That did say: 'A common man with uncommon desire to succeed.'

In the ethos, 'The ability to control my emotions and my actions, regardless of circumstance, sets me apart from other men' has been changed to 'the ability to control my emotions and my actions, regardless of circumstance, sets me apart from others'.

And 'brave men' has been amended to read 'brave SEALs.'

In the SWCC creed 'brotherhood' was switched to a 'group of maritime warriors.' In another sentence 'brothers' in changed to 'them'.

The Navy has removed gendered words including 'brotherhood' and 'man' from its official SEAL ethos, changing them to 'citizen' and 'warrior'. Navy SEALs pictured in 2019

Former SEAL Gallagher appeared to share a picture of an August 3 memo sent by military officials on the pronoun changes. It shows Rear Adm. Collin Green approved the changes

The move sparked fury from disgraced ex SEAL Eddie Gallagher, who labeled it 'a joke'. Gallagher was was acquitted of murdering the ISIS prisoner following a high-profile trial which saw Donald Trump wade into the debate.

Naval Special Warfare spokesman Lt. Cmdr. Matthew Stroup said: 'The previous versions of the SEAL Ethos and SWCC Creed were written prior to the law allowing women to serve as operators in Naval Special Warfare.'

Stroup added: 'The changes do not in any way reflect lowering standards of entry, rather they ensure that all those who meet the requirements to train to become a SEAL or SWCC are represented in the ethos or creed they live out.

'This improves the posture of the NSW force by ensuring we draw from the greatest pool of talent available.'

In 2015, then Defense Secretary Ash Carter ordered the military to open all military jobs to women, including the most dangerous commando posts.

The move allowed women to serve in the most demanding and difficult jobs, including as special operations forces, such as the Army Delta units and Navy SEALs.

No women have so far completed the SEAL or SWCC qualifications after a rule change allowing their entry in 2015. Stroup said: 'To date, no women completed the SEAL or SWCC qualification training pipelines.'

Former SEAL Gallagher appeared to share a picture of an August 3 memo sent by military officials on the pronoun changes. It shows Rear Adm. Collin Green approved the changes.

The move sparked fury from disgraced ex SEAL Eddie Gallagher, who labeled the move 'a joke'. Gallagher was was acquitted of murdering the ISIS prisoner following a high-profile trial which saw Donald Trump wade into the debate

Green wrote: 'The SEAL Ethos and SWCC Creed are our community's bedrock guidance. In order to provide more inclusive language, we have revised them to better reflect our diverse ranks now and into the future.'

Gallagher was acquitted of indiscriminately firing at civilians and murdering an ISIS prisoner in Iraq in 2017. He was only convicted for posing for a photo with the teen's body.

As a result of posing for a picture with the dead teen, Gallagher was de-ranked in July 2019. However Donald Trump later restored him to Chief Petty Officer. He is now retired.

Sharing a note on the pronoun changes Gallagher wrote: 'What a joke. To be honest I thought the ethos was always BS. Now I know it is.

'A creed or ethos is supposed to be written in stone, obviously ours is not and will sway to whatever political agenda is being put out.'

In July of this year a female soldier graduated from the Army's elite Special Forces course to join one of the all-male Green Beret teams for the first time ever.

The unidentified woman was one of three female soldiers who had been going through the Army Special Forces qualification course at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

She graduated on July and donned her Green Beret, along with about 400 other soldiers. Defense officials, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss personnel matters have confirmed that she is a member of the National Guard.

Lt. Gen. Fran Beaudette, commander of Army Special Operations Command, presided over the ceremony and was able to say, for the first time, that 'our Green Beret men and women will forever stand in the hearts of free people everywhere.'

'From here, you will go forward and join the storied formation of the Green Berets where you will do what you are trained to do: challenge assumptions, break down barriers, smash through stereotypes, innovate, and achieve the impossible,' he said.

The SEAL program tests participants' physical and psychological strength along with water competency and leadership skills. It starts at the Naval station in Great Lakes, Illinois and typically ends 65 weeks later with graduation in Coronado, across the bay from San Diego

The SEAL program tests participants' physical and psychological strength along with water competency and leadership skills.

It starts at the Naval station in Great Lakes, Illinois and typically ends 65 weeks later with graduation in Coronado, across the bay from San Diego.

Each graduate is awarded the special warfare insignia known as the Trident that denotes membership in the elite fighting force: The pin features a golden eagle wrapped around a U.S. Navy anchor, while clutching a three-prong trident, and a flintlock style pistol.

The program is so grueling that 75 per cent of candidates drop out by the end of the first month in phase one. That's when trainees undergo what is known as Hell Week when recruits are pushed to the limit with little sleep.
Five miners met their untimely death last Sunday after an illegal mining (galamsey) pit collapsed on them at Adumbanso Lower Electoral Area, a farming community in the Wassa East District of the Western Region.



The five, consisting of four females and one male whose names have been given as Samuel Abekah alias Kofi Tawiah aged 18 years with the four females yet to be identified.



Report by the Assemblyman for the Adumbanso Lower Electoral Area, Mr Albert Kwasi Kwakye, the five met their untimely death when the dugout sand caved on them while they were prospecting for gold.



Mr Kwakye said, he alerted the Police immediately who went to the scene and found the five dead bodies, retrieved and deposited the bodies at a private mortuary at Funko pending investigations.



The Wassa East District is one of the notable areas for illegal mining business in the Western Region.



In an interview with the Ghana News Agency, Mr Samuel Abeka, father of Master Kwasi Abekah indicated that his son is a JHS 2 student at the Apewosika Basic School near the University of Cape Coast (UCC) in the Central Region.



He lamented that his son was with him in Cape Coast, however, but had to go and live with the mother in Adumbanso due to the closure of schools as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.



When asked about the living conditions of the family, he explained that he is a worker at the UCC who placed premium on education and that the son and the mother who worked in an oil palm plantation were not in hardship conditions, which would push the boy into galamsey.



Even though we are divorced, I take good care of my children and wasnt aware that my son was into galamsey and the mother never told me, so I was surprised when the news about his death in a galamsey pit was broken to me, Mr Abekah stressed.



He appealed to the Police to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.

Source: GNA









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Minister Foley has said that the need for 1,000 more places is just a guestimate at this stage.

Education Minister Norma Foley has said that there may well be a number of students who have to defer college places until next year, due to the department's error with Leaving Certificate results.

Minister Norma Foley is at the centre of new controversy after it emerged two computer coding errors left about 6,500 Leaving Cert 2020 students with at least one lower grade than they should have been awarded.

It could cost about 10m to fund the extra places and it also leaves the Government dealing with the political fall-out from another debacle.

However, this morning Minister Foley said that the need for 1,000 more places is just a guestimate at this stage.

That's just an estimate or a guestimate at this stage, she said on RTE Radio Ones Morning Ireland.

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What I will say is there is an absolute commitment from Minister Harris and my own department to work hand in hand to do all that we possibly can to ensure that all students who are to get an upgraded offer will receive that offer and the maximum number of them to be able to follow it up in this academic year.

There may well be a number of students who have to defer but it is very early to make that call now.

In terms of the number of places I think it is important to remember that in appeals last year there were 17,000 appeals, 3,000 upgrades and 600 higher preference offers were made and all of those higher preference offers were made within that academic year, bar three.

I would be very hopeful that we would achieve a similar level of success next year.

Ms Foley is set to make a statement in the Dail today.

Minister for Further and Higher Education Simon Harris has said the Government "will move mountains" to accommodate students who receive a new offer of a college place as a result of a Leaving Cert upgrade.

Sinn Fein spokesperson for Education Donnchadh O Laoghaire said that it is unacceptable to make students wait 12 months for a place they were originally entitled to.

What are they expected to do over the next year? he asked.

There is little work for people out of school, they may not have received an offer, they may be looking at a third offer or they may be in a different city to the course that they have been offered.

I do not think its acceptable and I dont think we can expect people to spend a year in purgatory waiting for the third level places.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi being stopped by police personnel while he was on his way to Hathras along with party workers to meet the family members of a 19-year-old Dalit woman who was murdered and gang-raped two weeks ago after his vehicle was stopped by the authorities, at Yamuna Expressway in Noida.  PTI photo

Chennai: DMK President M K Stalin demanded an open apology from Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for the manhandling of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi when he was walking to Hathras to console the family members of the 19-year-old girl who was brutally gang raped and killed.

In a statement on Thursday, Stalin said that he wondered if there was any rule of law in Uttar Pradesh after watching visuals of the police pushing, shoving and insulting Rahul Gandhi. If this was the plight of a national party leader, one can imagine what would be the plight of ordinary citizens in the state, where gang rapes and murders had become a regular feature, said Stalin.

He said even before he could overcome the shock over the news of the Hathras incident, another report had come from Balrampur, where another 22-year-old girl was kidnapped, gang raped and attacked inhumanly. The girls legs and hip bones were broken and she died before being taken to hospital, Stalin said.

Nadir of political misbehavior! Shame on UP Police. We, the people, voted for such thuggery. Irrespective of the party and its philosophy, rancor and hate will only breed and multiply, unless condemned by the majority, tweeted Makkal Neethi Maiyam founder Kamal Haasan.

Meanwhile, veteran Communist leader R Nallakannu, condemned the Hathras incident and called for a protest in all district headquarters on October 30 on behalf of the Movement for Livelihood of Oppressed People in Tamil Nadu.
DUBLIN, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- ResearchAndMarkets.com published a new article on the remote learning industry "Parents Struggle with Students' Online Learning"

Most students are back to school at this point, but school often means something different this year, depending on your school or area. Many children are learning from home, and nearly half of all parents struggled to keep their child engaged in remote schoolwork, according to a Canvas survey. Thirty percent of parents said school instructions were unclear, according to an EdTech article offering best practices for educators to support parents during remote learning.



Remote learning systems, IT support and consistent telecom access are becoming vital to students - children and adults alike - who are learning online, with teachers, parents and students all learning to navigate new protocols for attendance, homework, tests, and personal attention.



To see the full article and a list of related reports on the market, visit "Parents Struggle with Students' Online Learning"

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Research and Markets also offers Custom Research services providing focused, comprehensive and tailored research.

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Joey Essex has reportedly split from his Brazilian girlfriend Brenda Santos.

The former TOWIE star made things official with the model back in May and the pair have since enjoyed a trip to Ibiza and celebrated his 30th birthday.

However they have now called it quits on their romance after spending so much time together in lockdown took its toll, reports The Sun.

Calling it quits: Joey Essex has reportedly split from his Brazilian girlfriend Brenda Santos after a whirlwind five-month romance (pictured in September)

A source said: 'Joey was smitten with Brenda and it was a classic whirlwind romance between them.

'But spending so much time together took its toll and they both admitted they needed space.'

Explaining how the pair parted on good terms, the insider added: 'They were both really adult about everything and agreed that it was better to say goodbye.'

Brenda has reportedly since moved back to her place in London while Joey has deleted all traces of their time together from his Instagram account.

MailOnline has contacted Joey and Brenda for a comment.

Over: The pair (pictured) celebrated his 30th birthday together and also enjoyed a trip to Ibiza

Brenda is signed to Linden Staub Talent Agency, having recently appeared in French fashion magazine L'Officiel.

The model appeared to be introduced to Joey's family at his 30th birthday bash in July and they had even enjoyed a sun-soaked trip to Ibiza together.

Joey previously spoke candidly about dating in an interview with the Sun, telling the publication he was looking for the 'one' and setting his sights on someone who is also 'in the industry.'

The former TOWIE star said: 'I normally date girls because I'm bored, but I want to settle down now and I do wonder how I'll find the one.'

Amicable exes: An insider said Brenda has moved back to her home in London, with both her and Joey 'agreeing that it was better to say goodbye' (pictured in Ibiza during the summer)

Joey has previously been linked to Sam Faiers, who he proposed to after meeting on The Only Way Is Essex in 2011. He then had a series of flings before getting serious with model Lorena Medina.

However, their romance came to a crashing halt earlier this year when the hunk was seen leaving Rita Ora's pad with pals after a wild night out. Joey and Rita have since said they are 'just friends' and have been for years.

However Joey said he was keen to pursue another star as he admitted it is 'awkward' dating girls who aren't famous.

He shared: 'I'm single at the moment and I need to date someone in the industry because they'll know the situation that if we go out, there might be people watching. I've dated girls before who are not in the limelight and it feels awkward.'

When asked if fellow reality TV star and supermodel Kendall Jenner is still his 'dream girl', he joked: 'No, I'm her dream boy.'
Lisa Curry has shared her first post on social media following the tragic death of her daughter, Jaimi Curry, at the age of 33 just over two weeks ago.

The former Olympian, 58, uploaded a photo of herself paddling in the shallows with her gorgeous kelpie puppy, Mali, at Stumers Creek dog beach on the Sunshine Coast.

Lisa Curry has shared a 'joyful' puppy pic two weeks after her daughter's tragic death. Photo: Instagram/lisacurry.

Just pawsing for a moment to take in some joy, Lisa captioned the smiley snap, which shows her sporting a pair of denim dungarees.

Malis first time at the beach.... being a farm dog this was all new to her, she added.

Lisa and her husband, entertainer Mark Andrews, welcomed the adorable pooch into their lives back in July, naming her Mali which is a composite of Lisa and Marks own names.

The four-legged friend appears to be providing some much-needed light to what is surely a very dark time for Lisa, who recently laid her eldest child to rest.

RELATED:

Lisa with her late daughter Jami, who passed away after battling a long term illness. Photo: Instagram/lisacurry.

Jaimi, the daughter of Aussie sporting legends Lisa and Grant Kenny tragically passed away at Sunshine Coast University Hospital on September 14, following a private battle with a longterm illness.

The former couple announced the sad news in a statement to The Courier Mail:

It is with a very heavy heart that Lisa and I confirm that our beautiful daughter Jaimi has lost her battle with a long-term illness and passed away peacefully in hospital this morning in the company of loving family, the statement read.

Lisa, Grant and their son Jett Kenny and daughter Morgan Gruell paid their final respects to the 33-year-old during a beautiful, quiet, pretty and sparkly sunset funeral service in Queensland the following Saturday.

Jaimi was remembered by her mother as a caring, bright and loving soul who always put others before herself in a heartfelt Instagram post.

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President Klaus Iohannis said on Thursday that the new academic year will be "the most difficult" since 1989, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Agerpres.

"Today marks the beginning of a new academic year, which is undoubtedly the most difficult academic year since 1989. The rules of social distancing needed in the context of the health crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic make it difficult for an educational process in which mentoring has a central role. However, I am convinced that you will find the best ways to ensure both the quality of the educational act and the protection of the academic community from the risk of contamination with the novel coronavirus," the head of state said at the opening of the academic year at the "I.L. Caragiale" National University of Theatre and Cinematography (UNATC).

He stressed that this year would be difficult for the cultural act in general, in the context in which the performance halls have been closed for months, and the measures meant to control the epidemic will not allow a full return to normalcy in the next period.

"There is an inseparable link between the performing arts and the public. I especially appreciate the sacrifice made by the artistic community to contribute to the safety of society as a whole. At the same time, I am aware that there is a real need for support for cultural institutions, actors, directors, filmmakers and media creators, and that is why I am in constant dialogue with the responsible government authorities to find appropriate solutions to this segment that is deeply affected by the pandemic.

Together, the Government, other authorities, creators from all fields of arts and cultural industries and, last but not least, the academic environment, you have the responsibility to think and relaunch the cultural field. We will have to remedy not only the damage caused by the pandemic, but also some systemic gaps, which have made cultural consumption in Romania, in the last decade, well below the European Union average," said Iohannis.

According to the president, in post-pandemic, economic recovery efforts will need to be accompanied by greater support for culture, both by the state and the private sector.

"This is the message of encouragement that I want to send to the students of the National University of Theatre and Cinematography, as well as to the students from the other universities and art faculties in Romania. Art education is, after all, an essential pillar in constructing a really educated Romania," added Klaus Iohannis.

He said he chose to attend the opening of the academic year at UNATC given that it "shaped" Romania's recent culture.

"Through its graduates, the National University of Theatre and Cinematography has shaped Romania's recent culture and channeled the creative effort of personalities who have honored our country internationally," Iohannis said.

The head of state conferred on "I. L. Caragiale" UNATC the "Merit for Education" Order in the rank of commander at 70 years since the establishment of the institution.

"As a sign of appreciation of this rich activity of the institution, we decided to award the Merit for Education Order, in the rank of Commander," said President Iohannis.
KABUL - An Afghan official says at least nine people including four civilians were killed when a suicide car bomber attacked a military checkpoint in southern Afghanistan.

Omer Zwak, a spokesman for the provincial governor in Helmand, said Thursday a small child and three security personnel were wounded in the late Wednesday night attack in Nahri Sarah district.

Zwak said civilians were in a vehicle passing by when the attacker targeted the checkpoint. Two women were among those killed.

No one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, but Taliban insurgents are in control of most part of Helmand province.

The violence comes even as Taliban leaders and Afghan government-appointed negotiators are holding historic peace talks in Qatar, a Mideast country where the Taliban set up a political office after they were toppled from power in the 2001 U.S.-led invasion of Afghanistan. The negotiations, which started earlier this month, are meant to end the fighting and establish a roadmap for a post-war society.

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TORONTO - Google says it will pay publishers around the world about US$1 billion over the next three years for use of their content, the company's latest effort to relax tensions over its share of advertising sales that help fund the news industry.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 1/10/2020 (478 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

FILE - This Thursday, Jan. 3, 2013, file photo shows Google's headquarters in Mountain View, Calif. Google said Thursday, Oct. 1, 2020, it will pay publishers $1 billion over the next three years for their news content. The internet search giant said it has signed agreements for its news partnership program with nearly 200 publications in Germany, Brazil, Argentina, Canada, the U.K. and Australia. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez, File)

TORONTO - Google says it will pay publishers around the world about US$1 billion over the next three years for use of their content, the company's latest effort to relax tensions over its share of advertising sales that help fund the news industry.

The California-based company said Thursday that it has signed agreements for its news partnership program with nearly 200 publications in the U.K., Australia, Germany, Brazil, Argentina and Canada.

"This financial commitment  our biggest to date  will pay publishers to create and curate high-quality content for a different kind of online news experience," CEO Sundar Pichai said in a blog post.

A similar message was posted on Google Canada's blog post, which identified initial two publishing partners  Village Media of Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., and Narcity Media of Toronto, both primarily online publishers.

Google Canada said Thursday that it is still negotiating with other publishers and the new product won't be accessible in Canada until there's a "critical mass" of content.

The chairman of News Media Canada, which represents newspapers and digital-native news outlets of various sizes, said Google had taken a step in the right direction.

"It remains to be seen what the details are and, of course, that's very important," said Bob Cox, who is publisher of the Winnipeg Free Press and chairman of News Media Canada.

"News publishers believe their content has a certain value and we'll have to see what value Google puts on it."

For its part, Google has said previously that it recognizes the content has value to attract audiences but so does its ability to direct audiences and advertizers to publishers.

Daniel Bernhard, executive director for Friends of Canadian Broadcasting, said that US$333 million per year for the entire world is a small amount given the value of the content.

"These payments should not be optional and Google cannot be allowed to set the price unilaterally," Bernhard said in an email statement.

The Trudeau government said last week that it wants to change how the tech giants do business in Canada. It mentioned changes to corporate taxes as well as payments to Canadian creators, producers and distributors.

Google's News Showcase, launched Thursday in Brazil and Germany, features story panels that let publishers package stories with features like timelines.

It will appear first on Google News on smartphones using's Google's Android operating system, then phones using Apple iOS, before it is rolled out to Google Discover and Search.

The publications that have signed up include Germany's Der Spiegel and Stern and Brazil's Folha de S.Paulo.

The funding builds on a news licensing program announced by Google in June, as it seeks to defuse tensions with the beleaguered news industry.

But the European Publishers Council said Thursday that Google moved to stave off legislation and government action.

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"Many are quite cynical about Google's perceived strategy," said Angela Mills Wade, executive director of the council.

The council's members include German publisher Axel Springer and the British unit of media tycoon Rupert Murdoch's News Corp., which have been fighting a years-long battle to get the tech giants to pay for news stories appearing on their platforms.

The pressure has been rising in a number of countries.

Australia's government, which appears further ahead than Canada in its legislative agenda, is drafting a law to make Facebook and Google pay the country's media companies for the news content they use by early October. Facebook has responded by threatening to block Australian news content rather than pay for it.

In France, Google has refused to show snippets of some stories as it fights government demands for license fees to publishers, as required by a recent European Union directive.

 with files from CP's David Paddon in Toronto and AP's Kelvin Chan in London, England.
M ichelin-starred chef Jason Atherton, who cooked for Theresa May and David Cameron, has told The Londoner he wont be cooking for Boris Johnson over his Governments mishandling of the restaurant industry.

Calling the 10pm curfew insane, Atherton, who used to work for Gordon Ramsay before setting up a series of restaurants around the world, said: I wont be cooking at Number 10 again any time soon.

Im not impressed with how the Government is handling things. Theyve lost control of London.

Central London is a ghost town. They have to take another look at everything theyre doing. Thousands of jobs will go and restaurants will not reopen. I normally stay out of political stuff but I am starting to lean towards [Labour leader Keir] Starmer more and more.

Atherton cooked for Mrs May and Donald Trump at a Downing Street reception last summer and a number of times for Mr Cameron when he was PM.

Atherton invested 600,000 in making his premises Covid-safe but is struggling with the new rules. Other chefs have agreed with him.

Michel Roux Jr

Michel Roux Jr, chef patron of Le Gavroche, told The Londoner this week the curfew was ill thought through for an industry already on its knees.

--

AFP via Getty Images

The row over J K Rowlings views on trans issues grows. First, author Amanda Craig was dropped as a judge from the Mslexia prize for signing a letter defending the author (right) from hate speech. Now a second open letter, expressing love and solidarity for the trans and non-binary community, has been signed by 200 authors, including Malorie Blackman.

One that will rumble on.

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Paul Drinkwater/NBCUniversal Media, LLC via Getty Images

Tommy CORBYN says its brilliant that actor Brian Cox, above, spoke about his marijuana use. Earlier this week Cox, 74, revealed he has been smoking cannabis daily since he was 50. Corbyn, son of Jeremy, whose shop sells legal CBD products, told The Londoner: "The pandemic has made people more curious about the science of healthy living. With all the stress caused by such a massive disruption to our daily lives a lot of people are taking the initiative and trying it out now.

Ive consumed a huge amount of CBD (and vegetables) myself lately and Im the healthiest Ive been in years!

--

(Bumble)

Model Jourdan Dunn has posed as part of a campaign for Black History Month to raise the profile of black Brits in online dating spaces. Dunn is working with the app Bumble, whose research found a majority of black people in this country find images and stories about dating unrelatable. Fighting the good fight.

--

SW1A

THE Londoner was intrigued to find official rules dont require face masks across most of Parliament, except for those in canteens and public areas. One MP explained to us: They have employed an army of people across the estate who frequently stop us and tell us to remain two metres apart from people. We cant congregate in communal areas and cant even have a conversation with one other person. Its tough at the top.
New Delhi: Hitting out at Pakistan at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), India on Thursday said that Islamabad continues to play "victim card" on the issue of terrorism to "distract international community" even as it continues its support for them.

Highlighting that Pakistan continues with its "shenanigan of running with the hare and hunting with the hound", India's first secretary to the United Nations in Geneva, Vimarsh Aryan said, "Whenever there is a discussion on terrorism the failed state of Pakistan plays the victim card so as to distract international communitys attention from the reality that Pakistan is unabashedly harbouring and supporting UN proscribed terrorists and terrorist organizations."

Fact by fact, and case by case, Aryan exposed the condition of minorities, women, children and journalists in the country. He said, "the draconian State of Pakistan dares to talk about the rights of minorities in egalitarian India without realising that their responsibility is to protect people", citing the example of Asif Pervaiz, a Christian man from Lahore who was recently sentenced to death under draconian blasphemy laws of Pakistan.

On women's right, giving an example of Parsha Kumari, a Hindu woman who was abducted and converted in the southern province of Sindh, the Indian diplomat said, "the barbaric State of Pakistan dares to talk about the rights of women in an inclusive democracy like India without realising that their responsibility is to protect women".

Speaking on children rights, he cited an example of three-year-old Shahid Shah against whom FIR was lodged in Gujranwala. Aryan said, "the ruthless State of Pakistan dares to talk about the rights of children in a progressive democracy like India without realising that their responsibility is to protect children".

When it comes to the situation of journalists, he pointed at the "deep state of Pakistan" which "dares to talk about the rights of journalists in an open democracy like India" and without "realising that their responsibility is to protect honest journalists like Bilal Farooqi who is being tortured by Pakistani Army in Karachi, as we speak".

On September 30, India had highlighted Pakistan's hate speech against Indian leadership and the situation of minorities in the country at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). India's First Secretary at United Nations in Geneva, Pawan Badhe had said, "We are not baffled that Pakistan does well when it comes to inciting hatred against religious minorities and targeting our leadership with hate speeches."

Badhe had added, "Its well cherished an inherited culture of hatred makes it the perfect candidate for carrying forward the legacy of intolerance against anybody having modern views on human rights."

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and other members of the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) have been making remarks about Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India. In fact, Pakistani PM mentioned India 20 times during his United Nations General Assembly speech last week.

The Indian Diplomat had said, "no fabricated words against India is going to change the fact that Pakistan and territories under its control are deathtraps for journalists, human rights defenders, social activists and religious and ethnic minorities".

He had explained, "Perennial India bashing project of Pakistan in the UN system is also not going to change the fact that hundreds of journalists and human rights defenders die each year in Pakistan due to systematic killings including extrajudicial ones. Incessant attempts to maligning India in all international forums is not going to change the fact that tens of thousands of minorities would not stop fleeing Pakistan."

Live TV

A number of reports of minority Hindu and Sikh girls being converted have been reported in the country. Recent abduction and conversion of Jagjit Kaur to Ayesha Bibi has been dominating the news on both sides of the border with a number of Sikh groups protesting against it near Pakistani High Commission in India's national capital Delhi.

Pointing out, Badhe had said, "While the world has progressed well, Pakistan is still at the crossroads to understand the real meaning of modern laws, democracy and human rights" and "the language of accountability, civic space, fundamental freedoms, public participation is yet to find resonance with the authorities of Pakistan".
Washington, Oct 1 : You can now help discover new worlds beyond our solar system from the comfort of your home, thanks to a new citizen science platform called Planet Patrol launched by NASA.

The Planet Patrol platform allows members of the public to collaborate with professional astronomers as they sort through a stockpile of star-studded images collected by NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS).

"Automated methods of processing TESS data sometimes fail to catch imposters that look like exoplanets," said project leader Veselin Kostov, a research scientist at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, and the SETI Institute in Mountain View, California.

"The human eye is extremely good at spotting such imposters, and we need citizen scientists to help us distinguish between the look-alikes and genuine planets." Volunteers will help determine which TESS snapshots include signals from potential planets and which ones show planet impersonators, NASA said on Wednesday.

TESS uses its four cameras to take full images of one patch of sky, called a sector, every 10 minutes for a month at a time.

This long stare allows TESS to see when planets pass in front of their stars, or transit, and dim their light.

Over the course of a year, TESS collects hundreds of thousands of snapshots, each containing thousands of possible planets -- too many for scientists to examine without help.

On the new website, participants will help astronomers sift through TESS images of potential planets by answering a set of questions for each - like whether it contains multiple bright sources or if it resembles stray light rather than light from a star.

These questions help the researchers narrow down the list of possible planets for further follow-up study.

Citizen scientists can dive even deeper by learning more about the star in each image and by engaging with the Planet Patrol community, NASA said.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Endpoint automation leader 1E has announced new features to their market leading digital experience management offering, Tachyon Experience, helping enterprises truly understand how users experience their IT.

Sentiment as a leading indicator in a Remote First World

In a remote first world, knowledge workers increasingly rely on their endpoint to be performant and responsive; The endpoint is their entire conduit to the workplace. Recent research by Vanson Bourne showed that the overwhelming majority (98%) of remote workers found endpoint performance to be important, yet more than half (53%) saying that their machine runs more slowly outside the office. IT has historically lacked the tools to identify and remediate these issues. Tachyon Experience has been built to provide IT analytics of the aggregated digital experience of users across the entire endpoint estate down to the sentiment of an individual user.

Almost every knowledge worker is working remotely, but they have an inferior experience to working in the office. Businesses that succeed in a remote first world will provide a first class digital experience to all employees wherever they are. IT departments need tools which monitor digital experience, gather employee sentiment and remediate issues as they happen. said Sumir Karayi, CEO and Founder, 1E

Tachyon Sentiment joining up previously siloed datasets

Integration is where Tachyon Sentiment differentiates over the traditional survey approach; Traditionally, IT departments have conducted periodic NPS polls, but this has rarely been joined up to the applications and device theyre using. This siloed approach to data clouds any real digital experience insights. For the first time, IT departments are able to correlate a users sentiment or perception of IT with actual telemetry from the endpoint that theyre using. Tachyon Experience aggregates end user sentiment with endpoint metrics (stability, performance and responsiveness) into a single, overarching Digital Experience score.

Sentiment is a vital expansion to our Tachyon Experience offering as it allows IT departments the ability to identify users that appear to be having a solid experience from a technical metrics perspective, but in reality, are having a frustrating time with some of their applications or day to day end point experience, says Rob Peterscheck, VP of Product for 1E

The new Sentiment capability in 1E Tachyon Experience introduces unparalleled flexibility and integration in comparison to traditional approaches to gathering user feedback. Users can be polled on an ad-hoc basis, scheduled or in response to a specific event (for example an IT change or upgrade). The ability to collect user feedback in real time in response to major transformation initiatives or rollouts will also be a major asset to IT operations teams who have previously used trailing indicators such as escalation of service desk tickets said Peterscheck.

Digital Experience, not just the purview of the IT department

The addition of Sentiment to Tachyon Experience marks a vital step in a market shift to broaden the appeal of Digital Experience Monitoring tools beyond the IT department. Given the challenges of remote working for employees and the tighter relationship between HR and IT, we see the Tachyon Experience playing a part in further desiloing data and toolsets between our departments. HR routinely ask employees how they feel about their workplace using traditional tools, but in this new world, the laptop is their workplace and hence it makes sense to share the data between the departments said Nick Bartlett, Chief People Officer for 1E

For more information on 1E Tachyon Experience, attend the launch webinar on 15th of October at https://info.1e.com/tachyon-sentiment-launch or visit www.1E.com.

Statistics referenced throughout are taken from 1Es latest research The new digital workplace: employee experiences with universal remote working since COVID. You can read the full research here: www.1E.com/wfa-research

####

About 1E

1E offers the only real-time remote endpoint automation solution that helps IT actively manage employee experience in real-time. Giving IT teams total control and visibility over all remote endpoints, Tachyon offers in-depth analytics to understand and improve the experience employees have with their endpoints. It delivers

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201001005606/en/
Researchers have demonstrated that an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm could be trained to classify Covid-19 pneumonia in computed tomography (CT) scans with up to 90 per cent accuracy.

Also, it correctly identifies positive cases 84 per cent of the time and negative cases 93 per cent of the time.

The study, recently published in Nature Communications, shows the new technique can also overcome some of the challenges of current testing.

We demonstrated that a deep learning-based AI approach can serve as a standardized and objective tool to assist healthcare systems as well as patients," said study author Ulas Bagci from the University of Central Florida in the US.

It can be used as a complementary test tool in very specific limited populations, and it can be used rapidly and at large scale in the unfortunate event of a recurrent outbreak," Bagci added.

According to the researchers, CT scans offer a deeper insight into Covid-19 diagnosis and progression as compared to the often-used reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, or RT-PCR, tests.

These tests have high false-negative rates, delays in processing and other challenges.

Another benefit to CT scans is that they can detect Covid-19 in people without symptoms, in those who have early symptoms, during the height of the disease and after symptoms resolve.

However, CT is not always recommended as a diagnostic tool for Covid-19 because the disease often looks similar to influenza-associated pneumonia on the scans.

The new co-developed algorithm can overcome this problem by accurately identifying Covid-19 cases, as well as distinguishing them from influenza, thus serving as a great potential aid for physicians, the researchers said.

To perform the study, the researchers trained a computer algorithm to recognize Covid-19 in lung CT scans of 1,280 multinational patients from China, Japan and Italy.

Then they tested the algorithm on CT scans of 1,337 patients with lung diseases ranging from Covid-19 to cancer and non-Covid pneumonia.

When they compared the computers diagnoses with ones confirmed by physicians, they found that the algorithm was extremely proficient in accurately diagnosing Covid-19 pneumonia in the lungs and distinguishing it from other diseases, especially when examining CT scans in the early stages of disease progression.

We showed that robust AI models can achieve up to 90 per cent accuracy in independent test populations, maintain high specificity in non-Covid-19 related pneumonia, and demonstrate sufficient generalizability to unseen patient populations and centres," Bagci said.
Greater Noida, Oct 1 : High drama prevailed on Thursday After Uttar Pradesh Police personnel pushed former Congress President Rahul Gandhi on the ground on the Yamuna Expressway and detained him, while he was walking towards Hathras to meet the family of the rape victim.

Gandhi, along with his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and other senior leaders had left Delhi on Thursday to meet the family of the Hathras rape victim.

However, they began marching towards Hathras after their vehicle was stopped near the Yamuna Expressway.

Visuals of the incident clearly show Uttar Pradesh Police personnel pushing both Rahul and Priyanka. After the push Rahul can be seen falling on the ground.

Later Rahul Gandhi told the media, "Just now police pushed me, lathicharged me and threw me on the ground. I want to ask, can only (Narendra) Modiji walk in this country? Can't a normal person walk? Our vehicle was stopped, so we started walking." The Uttar Pradesh Police Personnel also told Gandhi he was being detained as he was marching in an area where section 144 has been imposed. The section relates to assembly of not more than five people at one place.

Gandhi said that even if Section 144 had been imposed, he will walk alone towards Hathras to meet the family of the rape victim.

The Congress leaders then had a heated exchange with police personnel.

According to Ranvijay Singh, Additional DCP, Gautam Budh Nagar, Rahul Gandhi has been taken into custody and he won't be allowed to go further as the police have a letter from DM Hathras saying that if Gandhi goes there, it may disturb the law and order situation in the district.

Also, there is the issue of providing security cover.

Rahul Gandhi along with Priyanka, Randeep Singh Surjewala, Rajiv Shukla and several other top leaders were walking towards Hathras to meet the family of the victims a day after the last rites of the rape victim was allegedly performed during the night in the absence of her family members.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Ireland's Supreme Court has ruled that bread sold by the fast-food chain Subway contains so much sugar that it cannot be legally defined as bread. The ruling came in a tax dispute brought by Bookfinders, an Irish Subway franchisee, which argued that some of its takeaway products were not liable for value-added tax. A panel of judges rejected the appeal Tuesday, ruling that the bread sold by Subway contains too much sugar to be categorized as a "staple food," which is not taxed.
The panel will help manufacturers understand how they can take the initial steps toward digital transformation and how to adopt Industry 4.0 incrementally.

eMazzanti Technologies, a New Jersey Manufacturing IT consultant, invites manufacturing business leaders to participate virtually in tomorrows Made in New Jersey Manufacturing Day Program organized by the New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program (NJMEP).

The NJMEP event, held in conjunction with National Manufacturing Day, is scheduled to run from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm on Friday, October 2, 2020. The New Jersey Manufacturing Day will be 100% virtual this year and claims to be the largest networking event of its kind for the New Jersey manufacturing industry.

Get more information here and register for the Advanced Manufacturing Technology: One Step at a Time live virtual sessions.

eMazzantis Co-Founder and President, Carl Mazzanti, will join Mark Howe, Vice President, Sales and Marketing of The Knotts Company to discuss Advanced Manufacturing Technology: One Step at a Time, in three live virtual sessions moderated by Peter Russo from NJMEP.

The panel will help manufacturers understand how they can take the initial steps toward digital transformation and how to adopt Industry 4.0 incrementally. Participants will hear how companies are transforming their businesses and preparing for the future. They can also experience the eMazzanti Virtual Exhibit Booth from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM EDT.

Cyber-security Experts at NJMEP Manufacturing Day Event

Manufacturing Day attendees connect with leaders in business and government. They experience the event from anywhere and develop relationships that help drive business forward. Furthermore, informative breakout sessions will tackle current manufacturing topics, including manufacturing cyber risks and exploring workforce strategies.

Manufacturing remains high on the list of industries most vulnerable to cyber-attack, stated Mazzanti. As industrial technology advances, manufacturers increasingly use cloud, mobile, and data analytics to enhance connectivity and infrastructure. This presents a larger attack surface to cyber criminals.

Facing increasing threats, many small business manufacturers lack the resources to manage cyber-security risks. The evolving nature of the risks and the shortage of cyber-security professionals make effective cyber-security a challenge for manufacturing organizations of all sizes.

The experts at eMazzanti Technologies work hard to stay on top of the fast-changing cyber-security landscape. They provide manufacturing cyber-security technologies to detect and block attacks. In addition, they design multi-layered proactive cyber defense solutions to mitigate manufacturing cyber-security risk. The companys offerings include a variety of 24/7 network monitoring and managed services solutions.

eMazzantis comprehensive suite of manufacturing and distribution IT services also include network design and management, scalable Cloud solutions, IoT infrastructure, infrastructure as a service (IaaS), disaster recovery as a service (DRaaS), and compliance management. From consultation to implementation, management, and monitoring, eMazzantis expert team handles it all.

Have you read?

Manufacturing Automation Provider Gains Productivity with eMazzanti IT Infrastructure Upgrade

FMB Steel Cuts IT Costs 50%, Ends Recurring Problems Transferring Support to eMazzanti

About NJMEP

NJMEP is a private, notfor-profit organization that improves the profitability and competitiveness of New Jerseys manufacturers. Backed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), NJMEP enables organizations to enhance their productivity and efficiencies, reduce costs, and improve employee performance.

About eMazzanti Technologies

eMazzantis team of trained, certified IT experts rapidly deliver increased revenue growth, data security and productivity for clients ranging from law firms to high-end global retailers, providing advanced retail and payment technology, cloud and mobile solutions, multi-site implementations, 247 outsourced network management, remote monitoring and support.

eMazzanti has made the Inc. 5000 list 9X, including eight consecutive years, is a 4X Microsoft Partner of the Year, the #1 ranked NYC area MSP and NJ Business of the Year! Contact: 1-866-362-9926, info@emazzanti.net or http://www.emazzanti.net Twitter: @emazzanti Facebook: Facebook.com/emazzantitechnologies.
Taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over US President Donald Trump's remarks questioning the credibility of India's COVID numbers, senior Congress leader P Chidambaram asked whether the PM will hold another 'Namaste Trump' rally to honour his "dear friend". During the first presidential debate ahead of the US polls, President Trump raised questions over the credibility of India's COVID-19 tally, claiming that it was among the countries that do not accurately disclose the number of deaths due to the pandemic.

Reacting to the remarks, Chidambaram said, "Mr Donald Trump clubs India with China and Russia and accused the three countries of hiding the number of COVID deaths. He also accused the three countries for causing the most air pollution." "Will Mr Modi hold another 'Namaste Trump!' rally to honour his dear friend?" he said, taking a dig at Modi over the grand event held in Ahmedabad during the US president's India visit in February this year. "'In 47 months I have done more than you have in 47 years' said Mr Donald Trump in the Presidential debate yesterday. If the statement reminds you of someone in India, that's your imagination!" Chidambaram said in a series of tweets.

The remarks by Trump came during his first presidential debate with Democratic challenger Joe Biden, who attacked the US president over the handling of the coronavirus crisis and said the president lied to Americans on the COVID-19 pandemic, which has killed more than 200,000 people and infected over seven million others in the country. Defending his handling of the crisis, Trump said "millions" could have died in America without his actions.

"When you talk about the numbers, you don't know how many people died in China. You don't know how many people died in Russia. You don't know how many people died in India. They don't exactly give you a right number. Just so you understand," Trump said. Trump has repeatedly blamed China, where the coronavirus first emerged in December last year and spread around the world, killing over one million and infecting more than 30 million people.
STRONGSVILLE, Ohio -- Since the start of the pandemic, most of us have been waiting for a time when this is all over and we can return to normal. Yet at this time, there seems to be no end in sight.

Kemper House has worked very hard to keep COVID-19 out of its care homes. They are committed to continuing the fight, but they also need to get back to putting the needs of their residents and staff first whenever possible in this uphill battle.

As you may be aware, the Ohio Department of Aging and Gov. Mike DeWine have mandated that residential care facilities must test all employees every two weeks for COVID-19. Their initial testing program was suspended a couple of weeks ago due to a high number of false positives at the earliest testing facilities.

The state has now contracted with a new vendor, Mako Labs out of North Carolina, to process the tests.

Renewed testing started Sept. 30 at Kemper House Strongsville and will take place every other Wednesday until the end of the emergency or the state says otherwise.

The state does not provide support for the actual testing, however, which must be performed at Kemper House by the companys nurses. With over 5 million Americans now living with the debilitating effects of Alzheimers disease, Kemper House is striving to keep its residents safe.

Kemper House is a family-owned and operated residential care facility that specializes in caring for individuals with all stages and all types of Alzheimers disease and related dementias, up to and including end of life and hospice care.

They provide long-term care, adult day care and short-term respite stays. They have two locations in Greater Cleveland: Strongsville and Highland Heights. For more information, go to www.kemperhousestrongsville.com.

Gold Plus Award: Strongsville Fire and Emergency Services has received the American Heart Associations Mission: Lifeline EMS Gold Plus Award for 2019. The department has received this award for the past several years.

The award is presented for implementing quality improvement measures for the treatment of patients who experience severe heart attacks.

Every year, more than 250,000 people experience an ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), the deadliest type of heart attack caused by a blockage of blood flow to the heart that requires timely treatment. To prevent death, its critical to restore blood flow as quickly as possible, either by mechanically opening the blocked vessel or by providing clot-busting medication.

The Mission: Lifeline initiative provides tools, training and other resources to support heart attack care following protocols from the most recent evidence-based treatment guidelines.

Mission: Lifelines EMS recognition program recognizes emergency medical services for their efforts in improving systems of care to rapidly identify suspected heart attack patients, promptly notify the medical center and trigger an early response from the awaiting hospital personnel.

Strongsville Fire and Emergency Services is dedicated to providing optimal care for heart attack patients, said Fire Chief Jack Draves. We are pleased to be recognized for our dedication and achievements in emergency medical care efforts through Mission: Lifeline.

"This recognition would not be possible without the extraordinary efforts by our paramedics on behalf of their patients. Additionally, the recognition is also a result of the support, guidance, leadership and medical direction provided by Southwest General Health Center, Dr. Susan Tout, EMS Medical Director, and Jackie Haumschild, EMS Nurse Manager.

The Southwest team is vital in the training, education and providing the proper equipment to our paramedics so they can achieve this high level of success, Draves said.

"We are successful in treating these cardiac patients because everyone does their part to provide quality medical care in the prehospital setting, in the emergency department and in the cardiac unit.

One of the best: Altenheim Senior Living has been recognized by Newsweek as a 2021 Best Nursing Home. The award was announced on Sept. 30 and can be viewed on Newsweeks website, www.newsweek.com.

The 2021 Best Nursing Homes rankings consider nursing facilities in the 20 states with the highest populations. These states include Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin.

The rankings evaluate nursing facilities on key performance data, peer recommendations and response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Altenheim is proud to be recognized for a second time as one of the countrys Best Nursing Homes.

At Altenheim, weve always stood for family, said CEO Paul Psota. This award is a reflection of the passion lived out daily by our attending physicians, nurse practitioners, staff and volunteers in service to our residents, their families and the local community.

Altenheim has served the Northeast Ohio community since 1892. For more information, go to www.altenheim.com.

Let the Strongsville community know what is going on with your organization, church, school, business or family. Email me at shirleymac48@att.net.

Read more from the Sun Star Courier.
DETROIT  A man who served 24 years in prison for murder was exonerated Wednesday after DNA evidence was finally tested.

Authorities agreed that the conviction of Lacino Hamilton for second-degree murder was spoiled by DNA test results and woefully improper use of informants, The Associated Press reports.

Im a little overwhelmed right now, Hamilton said. I am extremely grateful and look forward to being a productive citizen in our community.

Hamilton, now 45 years old, has been in prison since 1996 for the 1994 death of a Detroit woman. He was sentenced to 52 years; his first opportunity for parole would have been in 2046.

Attorneys Mary Chartier and Takura Nyamfukudza took up his case with the Western Michigan University-Cooley Law School Innocence Project, and a special unit in the Wayne County Prosecutors Office that investigates possible wrongful convictions.

DNA found under the victims fingernails, which was not disclosed or tested before the 1995 trial, excluded Hamilton as the attacker.

In addition to that, and perhaps even more alarming, is the woefully improper use of informants in this case by the Detroit Police Department, Wayne County prosecutor Kym Worthy said. The use of informants can be a very valuable tool in fighting crime and seeking justice, but in this case, it was used and abused horribly.

READ MORE:

Girl sexually assaulted by multiple men after social media meeting, police say

Bay City man arrested after 4-hour standoff with police

Michigan man, 32, shot dead in his driveway
A state representative from Franklin County informed his House colleagues on Thursday that he learned he has tested positive for the coronavirus.

Rep. Paul Schemel, a Republican, said in a statement he began experiencing mild symptoms on Wednesday and took a COVID-19 test on Thursday when he was informed he had a positive result.

Schemel was last at the Capitol on Tuesday when he said he was experiencing no symptoms. He is now self-isolating.

Upon experiencing symptoms on Wednesday, I began to self-quarantine, he said. As soon as I received a positive test result on Thursday, I informed the appropriate House offices. I am following the advice of medical professionals and the protocols of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives to ensure the safety of my family, staff, and fellow members.

As a result of the need to do contact tracing to inform people who Schemel had been in close contact with for at least a 15-minute duration, House Republican spokesman Jason Gottesman said the House decided to not hold a voting session on Thursday, when a vote on a controversial resolution forming a House Select Committee on Election Integrity was expected to be considered.

House Speaker Bryan Cutler, R-Lancaster County, issued a news release noting that Schemel is working with human resources to determine all interactions with other members and staff to track any possible exposures under Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. Those who may have been exposed are being contacted. He further added the House chamber, meeting rooms and staff work areas are professionally sanitized nightly after each session day.

House Democratic Leader Frank Dermody of Allegheny County in a statement thanked his Republican colleagues for the quick notification about Schemels test results that members received on Thursday in accordance with the House guidelines established earlier this year.

First and foremost we are concerned about peoples safety, Dermody said. Contact tracing is being carried out so that any House members, staff or possibly even Capitol visitors who should self-quarantine can be advised. This is yet another reminder that the virus is not going away and all of us need to keep following the simple steps such as washing hands, watching our distance from others, wearing masks and staying alert.

The House is not scheduled to be in session until Oct. 19 but Gottesman said no decision has been made as to whether the House will return sooner.

Schemel is the second House member to have announced he has tested positive for COVID-19 since the pandemic began.

The first was state Rep. Andrew Lewis, R-Dauphin County, who announced in May he had tested positive and has since recovered. In July, Senate Democratic Whip Tony Williams of Philadelphia, announced he had tested positive and he too has resumed his senatorial duties.

Dermody said, The news of another COVID case at the Capitol was very disheartening, especially when some inside the Capitol still resist taking proper precautions. We hope the legislator affected will recover quickly.

* This post was updated to include House Democratic Leader Frank Dermodys comments.

Jan Murphy may be reached at jmurphy@pennlive.com. Follow her on Twitter at @JanMurphy.
Tufts University will lead a $100 million, five-year program to understand and address threats posed by zoonotic viral diseases that can "spill over" from animals to humans, such as SARS-CoV-2, in an effort to reduce risk of infection, amplification, and spread, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) announced today.

Strategies to Prevent Spillover (STOP Spillover), which builds on Tufts' deep expertise in One Health (the interrelated health of humans, animals, and the environment) and a number of related fields, will involve wildlife and human disease experts from both the university and organizations across the globe.

The program aims to enhance the capacity of local, national, and regional institutions in countries across Africa and Asia to understand factors that contribute to the risk of zoonotic spillover; develop and implement measures to reduce early risk of spillover and spread; and quickly identify and respond to spillover events.

The transmission of zoonotic viral diseases to humans can cost lives, disrupt economies, and create lasting human health and societal problems, as we've seen most recently with the impact of COVID-19." Deborah T. Kochevar, STOP Spillover program director and a faculty member at Tufts

"Viral zoonotic disease outbreaks are becoming increasingly frequent. In our approach, it is not enough to know what to do to reduce viral spillover risks. We must also work with partners to institutionalize knowledge in existing systems, adapt learning to the local context, and continuously expand upon newfound expertise," she added.

STOP Spillover will be implemented by Tufts University and a consortium of wildlife and human disease experts that includes: the Africa One Health University Network; Broad Institute of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Harvard University; Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team; International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b); Internews; JSI Research and Training Institute, Inc.; Southeast Asia One Health University Network; Tetra Tech ARD; the University of California, Los Angeles; the University of Glasgow Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health, and Comparative Medicine; the Global Center for Health Security at the University of Nebraska Medical Center; and the University of Washington Institute for Risk Analysis and Risk Communication.

The Tufts University consortium will build on previous USAID Emerging Pandemic Threats One Health programs to include characterization of risks and development of behavior-change interventions based on environmental, ecological, gender, behavioral, socio-cultural, economic and political factors.

The program leverages expertise from across Tufts' schools in infectious-disease forecasting, surveillance, prevention, and eradication; food and water safety and risk reduction; social behavioral change; global health diplomacy; and One Health programming and education.

"Part of our mission at Tufts is to make the world a better place, and with this initiative, Tufts and its many coalition partners will make a lasting, positive impact on global health," said Anthony P. Monaco, the university's president.

The Tufts schools and centers involved in the program include Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, the Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University School of Medicine, The Fletcher School, the Feinstein International Center, and the School of Engineering.
It changes, to be honest. I have a complicated relationship with America. I was obsessed with America from a very young age, but its fair to say that the America I know now is not the America I knew when I watched The Greatest American Hero in the mid-80s. I think its fair to say that I love America, but at the same time sometimes you get very angry with the people and countries that you love. I actually see America, in a way, as a great intellectual challenge. Everything is so extreme, the good guys are so good and the bad guys are so bad and the dumb guys are so dumb and the smart guys are so smart. But at the same time, its a tunnel you can fall down that doesnt seem to have a bottom: you just keep falling deeper. I feel like Im never going to quite master it.

There are things that are unique to Trump, there is no doubt about that. I dont think any of us saw four years ago someone tweeting out that their political opponent was a paedophile; I dont think any of us saw that coming. That is definitely unique to Trump. But having said that, I do think that a number of the foibles of this era have been coming for some time, and I feel like its not specific to America, either. I feel America is just a few steps down the road from the rest of us; theyre kind of like a warning. Which is another interesting thing about America. It often tells you where youre going  thats at times not a very comforting bit of knowledge!

Do you think its a warning that anyone here is heeding?

I think that often people take the wrong lessons from America. You often on Twitter see people taking the lessons from America that Americans feel you should take, and I think youve got to get some context and perspective to really fully understand whats going on. Peoples first reactions, I dont think, are necessarily accurate. Id say we are heeding warnings, but Im not sure were heeding the right warnings.

On your show, you do a very good job explaining things. Is the job of providing facts a lonely place to be in 2020?

It is a very lonely place to be. The issue is not so much providing facts. There are plenty of outlets that provide facts; they just tend to provide the facts on their terms, and the facts they want you to know about, and they dont want to tell you about the facts they dont want you to know about. Thats the problem. What I feel is a lonely place to be is a place where you give everyone the benefit of the doubt. That is a lonely place to be. We try to for a number of reasons: number one, thats just my personality, Ive always  through The Chaser, the Checkout, everything  Ive always been in the business of trying to give people the benefit of the doubt before you condemn them. But then when you condemn them, you condemn them hard . The vast majority of criticisms we receive are from people on all sides of politics who feel annoyed by our attempts to give the benefit of the doubt to people who they believe do not deserve the benefit of the doubt. That is a lonely place.
Were really trying to elevate the start of early voting, since the elections coming up, Salazar said. We want to make sure that folks can go to the polls or vote absentee, that way we know that their vote is counted.

This is especially important in a pandemic, he said, when people have to be cautious in crowded areas such as polling places, and may find it safer to vote by mail or vote at the auditors office.

Normally, folks would just rather absentee or early vote, that way they dont have to wait in line and they know that they can get their ballot submitted, Salazar said.

This is a non-partisan event, they said. Masks and social distancing at the rally are also strongly encouraged.

We just want to share the importance of voting no matter what candidate or party youre supporting.

Were going to encourage folks to come out to this rally if theyd like to, and in addition to that, if they dont want to come out, we will also be live streaming this on social media, Salazar said, So if someone doesnt feel comfortable coming out, thats fine. Overall, were just inviting the community to come out, that way we can inspire others to be informed about early voting, as well as be inspired to go out and vote.

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A look at the performance of Pennsylvanias student financial aid agency and the staggering level of student loan debt Pennsylvanians are carrying has prompted the states fiscal watchdog to call for creating an Office of Student Loan Advocate.

This independent office as Auditor General Eugene DePasquale envisions it would serve as an ombudsman to assist borrowers who have a dispute with a loan service provider, educate them about borrowing options and ways to reduce the cost of college education, and recommend state and federal policies to help borrowers.

We need to make students that are going to college are able to fully understand all of the options and how to minimize their debt and to make sure the debt they do have is manageable so they can move forward to have a productive adulthood, DePasquale said in a Zoom call with reporters about the findings of performance audit of the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency.

He said since 2017, nine states - namely, Colorado, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, New York, Nevada, Virginia, and Washington  have created a similar office. DePasquale also suggested this office be housed in the Treasury Department, which runs the states college-savings program, and have it be independent from any of the states higher education institutions or state agency.

In his audit, DePasquale found that PHEAA, which administers the state grant program as well as other student aid programs, has addressed many of the recommendations that were made in a 2008 performance audit, at least the ones within its control. That includes reducing the agencys vehicle fleet and prohibiting personal use of those vehicles, eliminating its excessive executive bonus program and board junkets to posh resorts, cutting out spending on promotional items, among others.

For example, a records investigation of the agencys spending practices by The Patriot-News revealed more than $860,000 was spent on six board retreats to high-end resorts between 2000 and 2005 and $2.2 million on promotional giveaways between 2003 and 2007.

He said in the first two years after the 2008 audit, the changes that PHEAA and its board made resulted in $74 million in savings that it could use to invest in the state grant and other financial aid programs to help make college more affordable for Pennsylvania students.

DePasquale said he wants to make sure the state is doing everything it can to try to hold down the cost of higher education for students and to try to make sure that the debt they take on is more manageable. He shared Pennsylvanians carry $68 billion in student loan debt in part because the cost of attending public universities in this state is among the highest in the country. The average debt per borrower in this state is about $37,000.

PHEAA shares the auditor generals goal of helping students make informed choices before, during and after college and we welcome every perspective on how to do this more effectively, said PHEAA spokesman Keith New.

DePasquale commended the agency for the improvements it has made to lower its operating costs and invest in student aid programs. Over the last decade, it was reported at PHEAAs last board meeting the agency has injected more than $750 million of its earnings into the state grant program to supplement the state appropriation.

The auditor general urged the agency to continue its monitoring expenses and to make sure students take priority over compensation for executives and management-level employees.

One recommendation in the 2008 audit that has not been addressed  and requires legislative action  is a restructuring and potentially shrinking of the agencys 20-member board of directors, 16 of which are lawmakers with four each coming from the House and Senate Republican and Democratic caucuses.

The 2008 audit recommended reducing the number of lawmakers to eight, with two coming from each legislative caucus, and filling the eight seats they vacate with financial and educational professionals, including the secretaries of Banking and of Community and Economic Development, and a college student.

DePasquale agreed with that finding, saying the board, as it stands right now, is top heavy with legislators, which he said is what contributed to the past spending abuses, which he called all nonsense. It was all crap.

Those travel expenses have been reined in but we still believe that the board is too top heavy with legislators. There should be more people with finance backgrounds, perhaps college professors, students. There should be parents. I dont want to say no legislators but there should be more of a diverse representation on the PHEAA board to better reflect what that boards mission is, DePasquale said.

He also said he believes the size of PHEAAs board is way out of line from other state agency boards but he didnt say how many board seats he considered more appropriate.

Jan Murphy may be reached at jmurphy@pennlive.com. Follow her on Twitter at @JanMurphy.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will hold tractor rallies in Punjab from October 3 to 5 to protest the unconstitutional and anti-farmer agriculture laws passed by Parliament recently.

Chief minister Capt Amarinder, all ministers and Congress legislators will participate in the protest rallies along with party general secretary in-charge of Punjab Harish Rawat, and state party president Sunil Jakhar.

Efforts are being made to ensure Amritsar East MLA and former minister Navjot Singh Sidhus presence to present a united face, a party leaders said, requesting anonymity. Sidhu has been in a sulk ever since he quit the state cabinet last year after being stripped of key portfolios by the chief minister.

Rahuls tractor rallies will cover more than 50 km over three days, a Punjab Congress spokesperson said.

The tractor rallies are scheduled to begin at 11am on each of the three days, and will adhere to Covid-19 guidelines.

The protest rally on October 3 will cover a total distance of 22 km, starting with a public meeting at Badni Kalan in Nihal Singh Wala in Moga district before moving through Lopon. The rally will then head for Jagraon in Ludhiana district, where it will be received at Chakar, Lakha and Manoke, culminating at a public meeting in Raikot.

On Day 2, a total of 20 km will be covered, beginning with a reception at Barnala Chowk, Sangrur, from where Rahul and his team will travel by car to Bhawanigarh for a public meeting, before embarking on tractors to Samana in Patiala district, where receptions will be held at Fatehgarh Chhana and Bahmna, before ending the day with a public meeting at Grain Market, Samana.

On October 5, the protest will begin from Dudhan Sadhan in Patiala district with a public meeting, and the tractors will then head for Pehowa border, which is 10km away. Rahul will enter Haryana from there for a series of programmes in the neighbouring state.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 19:01:09|Editor: huaxia

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NAIROBI, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta has called for effective and coordinated efforts to stop biodiversity loss.

Kenyatta who joined world leaders on Wednesday evening during the virtual High-Level Summit on Biodiversity at the 75th Session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA 2020) emphasized the need for urgent global action to not only reverse the destruction of nature but also accelerate the achievement of SDGs.

"We call for urgent action to halt and reverse the destruction of nature. This will accelerate the achievements of the sustainable development goals, and the biodiversity targets that expire this year," Kenyatta said in a statement issued in Nairobi after his presentation.

"We must all work together Mr. President, with scaled-up ambition through partnerships, collaborations and cooperation," he added.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, UNGA 2020 President Volkan Bozkir, President Xi Jinping of China, Prince of Wales His Royal Highness Prince Charles, and French President Emmanuel Macron were among a galaxy of world leaders who voiced their support for global action to protect biodiversity and natural habitats.

Kenyatta who termed it a "super year" for biodiversity and nature said the challenges the world has faced this year have provided a unique opportunity to get back on track on both biodiversity and nature.

"We must build back better and smarter as it is no longer 'business as usual' but rather 'business unusual' to urgently deal with the vulnerabilities of our societies, our economies for a post-COVID-19 recovery," Kenyatta said.

He noted that human activity has put the world in a state of global emergency and rooted for the empowerment of global organizations responsible for conservation to adequately deal with threats to biodiversity.

"It is, therefore, critical that the UN-Habitat and the UNEP among other global bodies such as the Convention for International Trade on Endangered Species (CITIES) are empowered to take up the challenge in a holistic manner," the president said.

Kenyatta said as one of the ten mega diverse countries in the world, Kenya recognizes the critical role of biodiversity in supporting cultural, economic and environmental needs including sustainable development.

The president told the high-level UN summit that Kenya's sustained conservation efforts over the years have started paying dividends.

He singled out the ban on single-use plastics and the moratorium on logging as some of the interventions that have resulted in enormous benefits for livelihoods and the environment.

"Kenya has sought fundamental actions in the green and blue economy premised on clean energy, increased forest cover, conservation as well as the sustainable use of oceans to protect our biodiversity," Kenyatta said. Enditem
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The San Francisco company plans to rebrand and renovate the building with a tenant lounge and other perks.



Photo by Columbia West [enlarge] The seller made a 53% gain after 12 years of ownership  after buying when the last recession hit.





The Columbia West Building, at 155 108th Ave. N.E. in downtown Bellevue, has sold for $72 million, according to King County records. The buyers were two LLCs related to Swift Real Estate Partners of San Francisco, which announced the sale and provided details.





. . .
Ocado truck. Photo: Suzanne Plunkett/Reuters

Ocado Group Plc (OCDO.L) is being sued by AutoStore Technology AS over claims that the Norwegian companys technology is being wrongfully used by the British online grocers system.

Autostore, the Norwegian maker of automated storage and retrieval systems, has now filed complaints in US and UK courts to block the businesss expansion in both countries. It is also seeking monetary damages.

Shares in Ocado fell on Thursday by 7.1%, facing its largest decline all week.

AutoStore is seeking injunctions to stop Ocado and its partner, Tharsus Group, from manufacturing, importing, using and selling technology that infringes AutoStores patents.

AutoStore said that Ocados recently signed agreements with grocers Kroger Co. (KR) in the US, and M&S (MKS.L) and Wm Morrison Supermarkets (MRW.L) in the UK rely on the continued infringement of AutoStores intellectual property.

Ocado, however, told Yahoo Finance in a statement that it has not received any papers in relation to these claims and this is the first we have heard of this new claim. We are not aware of any infringement of any valid Autostore rights and of course we will investigate any claims once we receive further details. We have multiple patents protecting the use of our systems in grocery and we are investigating whether Autostore has, or intends to infringe those patents. We will always vigorously protect our intellectual property.

The news comes after Ocado overtook Tesco (TSCO.L) as the UKs most valuable retailer  in a very competitive landscape.

Ocado faces patent infringement lawsuits in the US and UK

Ocado is now valued at 21.7bn ($27.51bn), while Tesco is valued at 21.1bn, even though it only has a fraction of the UK grocery market share.

According to analyst firm Kantar, Ocado has only 1.7% of the UK grocery market. Thats compared with Tesco's 26.8% share, which far outstrips its nearest competitors, including Sainsbury's and Asda.

A rise in online food shopping in the wake of COVID-19 in addition to Ocados partnership with Marks & Spencer have made it more appealing to investors. Ocado recently reported a 50% jump in the third quarter sales.

The firm launched roughly 20 years ago but only started to gain momentum in 2017 after signing deals with US group Kroger, Casino in France, Sobeys in Canada, and ICA Group in Sweden. It also has a partnership agreement with Coles in Australia.
CALGARY, AB / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / Aurwest Resources Corporation ("Aurwest" or the "Company") (CSE:AWR) is pleased to announce that further to the Company's news releases dated August 20, 2020, August 31, 2020 and September 15, 2020, the Company has closed the second and final tranche of its previously announced non-brokered private placement ("Offering") and raised gross proceeds of $335,500 at a price of $0.05 per Unit (the "Unit") from the sale of 6,710,000 Units.

The aggregate capital raised by the Company under this financing in these two tranches was $1,355,300.

Pursuant to this Offering, each Unit consists of one common share ("Common Share") of the Company and one Common Share purchase warrant ("Warrant"). Each Warrant is exercisable into one Common Share at a price of $0.10 per Common Share at any time within 18 months following the date of issuance of the Warrant, or at a price of $0.15 per Common Share if exercised by the holder any time after the initial 18 months but before the date that is 36 months from the date of issuance of the Warrant. The Company has the right to force conversion of the Warrants, if at any time from and after the date of issuance, the daily volume-weighted average closing price of the Company's Common Shares on the Canadian Securities Exchange, equals or exceeds $0.20 for ten (10) consecutive trading days.

Colin Christensen, President & CEO commented, "The Company is pleased with the support on this financing. The aggregate funds raised will allow us to pursue our objectives to move the Company's Stellar property forward, as well as investigate the acquisition of further advanced stage precious metal exploration projects in North America."

A finder's fee of $16,275 and 651,000 broker Units were provided to PI Financial Corp. in connection with the Offering.

Price protection at $0.05 per Unit was obtained from the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE").

All securities issued under this Offering are subject to a statutory hold period expiring four months and one day from issuance. The closing of the Offering, including the issuance of the securities and the finder's fee are subject to the Canadian Securities Exchange approval.

None of the securities issued in connection with the Offering will be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "US Securities Act"), and none of them may be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the US Securities Act.

This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there by any sale of the securities in any state where such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful.

On Behalf Of Aurwest resources Corporation

"Colin Christensen"

President and Chief Executive Officer

For additional information please contact:

Colin Christensen

Telephone: (403) 483-8363

Email: cchristensen@aurwestresources.com

Website: www.aurwestresources.com

About Aurwest Resources Corporation

Aurwest is a Canadian-based junior resource company focused on the acquisition, exploration and development of gold, silver, and base metal properties in North America. The Company currently holds a 100% interest in the 22,700 hectare Stellar copper/gold project, located approximately 25 kilometres southwest of Houston, British Columbia.

Forward-Looking Information

Statements included in this announcement, including statements concerning our plans, intentions and expectations, which are not historical in nature are intended to be, and are hereby identified as "forward-looking statements". Forward looking statements may be identified by words including "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "expects" and similar expressions. The Company cautions readers that forward-looking statements, including without limitation those relating to the Company's future operations and business prospects, are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such risks and uncertainties and should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, except in accordance with the applicable laws.

The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE: Aurwest Resources Corporation

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/608636/Aurwest-Resources-Announces-Closing-of-Second-Tranche-of-Financing
A handsome guest made a strong impression with This Morning viewers, who were 'distracted' by his choice of trousers.

Professor James Logan, speaking from the Medical Dog Detection Centre (MDDC) in Milton Keynes, was invited on the morning show hosted by Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby to discuss how he was training dogs to detect covid-19.

However, viewers were quick to pick on the fact the scientist's trousers were extremely tight - and left little to the imagination.

It appears that the guest, who teaches at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Disease, might have been alerted to the wardrobe malfunction, after he was seen holding a white paper bag in front of his trousers by the end of the segment.

Amused viewers took to Twitter to comment on the wardrobe malfunction, with many claiming they were struggling to pay attention to his comments about sniffer dogs.

Professor James Logan, from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Diseases was ivited on This Morning to talk about how dogs were being trained to detect Covid-19. However, his choice of trousers distracted viewers

Viewers were taken by the Professor's appearance on the show, and were especially enthusiastic about his wardrobe

'Sorry what was that about dogs? Too busy staring at the professors crotch,' one viewer wrote.

'Those trousers are very snug,' observed another.

'Can this professor be on every morning? Asking for a friend,' said another.

'Me watching the professor talking about dogs....dogs? What dogs,' joked one.

By the end of his TV appearance, the scientist was holding a paper bag in front of his pelvis, to the great disappointment of his fans

Professor Logan was explaining how dogs can be trained to detect a disease's specific smell, which could help in the fight against coronavirus

'Did anyone actually pay attention to what the Prof was saying? Slightly distracted,' one wrote.

'Ill get in touch with you Professor Jame,' one said.

After his initial interview, the camera went from Professor Logan to Claire Guest, from the who was also speaking about how she was training the dogs.

When the professor reappeared on camera at the end of the segment, he was holding a white paper bag in front of his trousers, suggesting someone had alerted him to his wardrobe 'malfunction.'

Viewers ran wild with jokes after the professor appeared on their screen - and doubled-down after he hid his modesty with a white bag at the end of the segment

'He hid his bulge then,' one viewer said.

'Awww someone has told him! Spoilsports,' said another disappointed fan.

Professor James was on the show to discuss how he was training dogs to detect Covid-19.

The UK has started to run trials to see if the animals can be used in the fight against the virus after Helsinki airport introduced sniffer dogs to detect the disease.

Along with Claire Guest, from the MDDC, Professor Logan explained that dog have been successful trained to detect other illnesses, such as malaria.

He explained that most diseases have specific scents that can be detected by dogs thanks to their amazing sense of smell.

'Dogs are absolutely incredible. Every time I see them work I'm absolutely blown away by how good they are at sniffing,' he said.

'I think we're pretty sure Covid has a smell, so if these dogs can do it, they can do it very well.

However, Professor Logan said he needed more samples in order to make strides in the research.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 21:45:51|Editor: huaxia

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CANBERRA, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison has confirmed that an Australia-New Zealand travel bubble will launch "very soon."

Morrison said on Thursday that the bubble will open on a "one-way" basis with travellers from New Zealand allowed to enter Australia.

He said that the scheme would provide a significant boost for Australia's struggling tourism industry with states and territories that have opened their domestic borders set to benefit.

"I think we'll be able to move on that very soon. It's more likely in the first instance to be a one way bubble i.e. New Zealanders being able to travel to Australia," Morrison told South Australian radio station FIVEaa.

"I would see South Australia, along with New South Wales, in the front end of that arrangement because they've taken their borders down."

As of Thursday afternoon, there had been 27,096 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Australia, and the number of new cases in last 24 hours is 19.

The national death toll has grown to 888 after two new deaths were reported in Victoria, the hardest-hit state by the COVID-19 pandemic in the country.

Their deaths take Victoria's death toll to 800, 90 percent of the national figure.

Of the new cases, Victoria reported 15 while New South Wales confirmed three cases.

"Seven of today's 15 new cases have been linked to known outbreaks or complex cases. The other eight cases remain under investigation," said a statement from the Department of Health and Human Services in Victoria on Thursday.

"Both of today's deaths are linked to known aged care facility outbreaks. "

The department also said that there are 135 active cases relating to aged care facilities and 45 active cases among healthcare workers in the state. Enditem
HAMILTON  Former indicted township employee Jeff Plunkett has entered the Pretrial Intervention program in his explosive animal cruelty case, The Trentonian has learned.

Meanwhile, Hamilton Township has hired new Health Officer Christopher Hellwig as Plunketts permanent successor.

I could not be happier with Chris Hellwig and his performance as Hamiltons health officer, Mayor Jeff Martin said Wednesday in a statement. Chris joined us during the middle of a once-in-a-century health pandemic and his job has only grown more difficult with a recent cluster of Legionella cases. Through it all, he and his health team have been true professionals with a commitment to keeping Hamilton healthy and safe.

The prior Mayor Kelly Yaede administration allowed Plunkett to work in dual positions as Hamiltons health officer and director of health. Part of Plunketts job responsibility was to oversee the maintenance and management of the Hamilton Township Animal Shelter, which had major deficiencies under Plunketts watch.

The New Jersey Department of Health performed an unannounced sanitary inspection of the townships shelter in July 2018 and discovered unsanitary conditions and evidence the township had euthanized numerous stray and surrendered animals before waiting the state-mandated seven days, according to the DOH inspection report that was released in August 2018.

In May 2019, authorities arrested former township employees Plunkett and Todd Bencivengo on allegations they prematurely euthanized approximately 236 cats and 93 dogs between January 2016 and October 2018 at the Hamilton Township Animal Shelter.

A Mercer County grand jury handed up an indictment charging Plunkett with two counts of third-degree animal cruelty and one count of second-degree official misconduct last November.

Plunkett pleaded not guilty at a post-indictment arraignment but later entered the PTI diversionary program on July 14 for a 36-month period of supervision on the two animal cruelty charges, according to Casey DeBlasio, a Mercer County Prosecutors Office spokesperson.

The official misconduct count of the indictment was dismissed at that time, she said Wednesday via email. He was also ordered to perform 40 hours of community service as a condition of his PTI.

Plunketts defense attorney Les Hartman did not respond to requests for comment on this story.

After Martin defeated Yaede in the 2019 mayoral election, Plunkett filed for service retirement effective Jan. 1 and resigned from public employment Dec. 31, 2019, according to the state Treasury Department.

It is unclear whether Plunkett will receive any retirement pension income. New Jerseys Public Employees Retirement System was expected to determine whether he had retired from Hamilton Township with honorable service.

Longtime Hamilton animal control officer Bencivengo retired from township employment in March 2019 and entered PTI on an accusation last October. He still collects a public pension, records show.

Mercer County Health Officer Kristen Reed was temporarily performing Hamiltons health officer duties before Hellwig assumed the mantle in April.

In just a few months, Chris has quickly become an asset to the Hamilton Township Health Department, township Health Director Kathleen Fitzgerald said Wednesday of Hellwig. I continue to be impressed with his quick thinking, knowledge and dedication to finding ways to keep us safe. With each and every obstacle he has had to face during his short tenure in Hamilton, Chris has risen to the occasion to serve our residents with steadfast resolve. The township and I are lucky to have Chris on our team.

Hellwig began employment with Hamilton Township April 6, and his annual salary is $112,366, according to the Martin administration.

A distinguished health professional, Hellwig previously served as the Irvington Township health officer and as Newarks deputy municipal emergency management coordinator.
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RTHK: Judge mulls evidence claim in Meng Wanzhou case

A Canadian judge on Wednesday adjourned Chinese Huawei executive 's extradition hearing to consider the defendant's claims that key evidence had been omitted.

During three days of hearings, Meng's lawyers argued that a PowerPoint slideshow she gave in 2013 should be included in the case record, accusing the US of having omitted parts of the presentation that could prove to be critical in the case.

Her attorneys also asked for expert witnesses to be allowed to testify on Meng's behalf.

Government lawyers opposed the motions, calling the proposed testimony and the missing slides irrelevant to the British Columbia Supreme Court's deliberations on whether to send Meng to the United States to face fraud charges linked violations of US sanctions against Iran.

Meng is accused of hiding Huawei's relationship with former subsidiary Skycom in Iran from HSBC bank.

Her 2013 PowerPoint presentation to an HSBC executive was made after the British banking group, worried over potential Iran exposure, requested an explanation.

Meng insists she was upfront with HSBC and its executive, including explaining how processing any related transactions through the US banking system could put HSBC in jeopardy  a fact that her lawyers say was left out in the US warrant and the missing slides will show.

The 48-year-old Huawei chief financial officer was arrested on a US warrant in December 2018 during a stopover in Vancouver and has been fighting extradition ever since.

The case has added to severe strain in US-China relations and created an unprecedented rift between Ottawa and Beijing.

Government lawyer Robert Frater on Tuesday argued that such evidence may be relevant at trial, but in extradition hearings the evidentiary bar is much lower.

According to a scheduling document filed jointly by Meng and the Canadian government, a decision on the defense requests could come by the end of October.

The extradition hearing is meanwhile scheduled to resume on October 26. (AFP)

This story has been published on: 2020-10-01. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
INDIANAPOLIS and WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind.  The Purdue School of Engineering and Technology at IUPUI (Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis) has announced a partnership with Purdue Universitys Cyber Apprenticeship Program (P-CAP) to offer its Master of Science degree in Cybersecurity and Trusted Systems online to P-CAP apprentices. The masters degree will allow students enrolled in Purdues innovative apprenticeship program to advance their careers to the highest level.

The M.S. in Cybersecurity and Trusted Systems (MSCTS) program will prepare students to enter the workforce in the rapidly advancing field of cybersecurity and enable them to address the security challenges and risks that industries encounter daily. Cybersecurity is a multidisciplinary area: a combination of information technology, computing, and engineering. This program will provide a solid, comprehensive background in the related topics of cybersecurity engineering and their applications.

Our graduate program in cybersecurity is unique in that it can be customized to accommodate students from a variety of backgrounds, including engineering, engineering technology, computer and information technology, computer science, management information systems, and a myriad of other undergraduate backgrounds, said David Russomanno, dean of the Purdue School of Engineering and Technology at IUPUI.

We are excited to partner with IUPUI and the Purdue School of Engineering and Technology as the provider of an advanced cybersecurity degree. The online MSCTS rounds out our apprenticeship program curriculum which also includes certificates along with associate and bachelors degrees. In conjunction with the P-CAP Leadership Academy curriculum, masters students will gain an advantage by developing advanced soft skills to become next-generation leaders in cybersecurity, said Geanie Umberger, clinical professor and executive director of the Purdue Cyber Apprenticeship Program.

The Purdue School of Engineering and Technology at IUPUI is a recognized cybersecurity education provider. The M.S. in Cybersecurity and Trusted Systems program is part of the National Security Agency (NSA) National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education and in Information Assurance Research (CAE/IAE and CAE/R). Masters students will be part of a Purdue graduate program, which consistently ranks in the top cybersecurity programs among universities. Students become a student member of the Purdue CERIAS (Center for Education and Research in Information Assurance and Security) and will have the opportunity to work as research assistants in NSF-funded research and education projects.

Purdue University and IUPUI are configuring a one-of-a-kind cyber competency-based dashboard built using the NICE Cybersecurity Workforce Framework, a nationally-focused resource that establishes a taxonomy and common lexicon to describe cybersecurity work, and workers, regardless of where, or for whom, the work is performed.

As an integral part of the advanced curriculum of Purdue Cyber Apprenticeship program, the online M.S. in Cybersecurity and Trusted Systems from IUPUI increases job security, the potential for higher salaries, and faster growing career options than other sectors.

To learn more about the M.S. in Cybersecurity and Trusted Systems, visit et.iupui.edu/departments/cigt/programs/cit/grad/cybersecurity.

To apply for the Purdue Cyber Apprenticeship Program, visit purdue.edu/pcap/candidates.

About Purdue School of Engineering and Technology at IUPUI

Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, better known as IUPUI, is Indianas urban research and academic health sciences campus.

IUPUIs mission is to advance the state of Indiana and the intellectual growth of its citizens to the highest levels nationally and internationally through research and creative activity, teaching and learning, and civic engagement.

The Purdue School of Engineering and Technology at IUPUI offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs that prepare students for careers in a global economy and is recognized locally, nationally, and internationally for the quality of its programs and graduates.

IUPUI is a distinctive combination of the best of Indianas two major universities: Purdue University and Indiana University. The School of Engineering and Technology offers students degrees from both universities, allowing our academic departments to offer programs in the respective disciplines for which Purdue and IU are known around the globe.

Competing at the highest levels  from groundbreaking research and creative projects, to civic engagement, to outstanding teaching and learning, the Purdue School of Engineering and Technology at IUPUI is making an impact around the world. Visit et.iupui.edu to learn more.

About Purdue Cyber Apprenticeship Program

Purdue Cyber Apprenticeship Program (P-CAP) was developed in response to the federal governments desire to fill an industry need of as many as 3.5 million cybersecurity jobs by 2021 (The New York Times). A $12 million U.S. Department of Labor Education and Training Award granted to Purdue Polytechnic Institute has tasked the University with providing a path to higher education, certifications, and cybersecurity on-the-job-learning through apprenticeships to at least 5,000 students by 2023. For more information, visit purdue.edu/pcap.
Revisiting What Barrett Said During Her 2017 Confirmation Hearing

In 2017, Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett was sharply questioned about her faith and personal views by Senate Judiciary Committee lawmakers who were deciding whether to confirm her as a circuit judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit.



One of the exchanges, namely Sen. Diane Feinsteins (D-Calif.) statement the dogma lives loudly within you, became so notorious that it continues to live on t-shirts and mugs. Feinsteins line of questioning and comment aimed at getting to the bottom of whether Barrett was able to separate her religious views from her legal opinions.

To the California senators question, Barrett calmly and prudentially responded, I would faithfully apply all Supreme Court precedent.

But that wasnt the only instance in which Barrett was grilled about whether her faith would affect her impartiality as a judge. The hostile questioning by senators, in particular those on the Democratic side, engendered frustration among religious leaders and conservatives as to whether an unconstitutional religious test was being applied to judicial nominees.

To uncover clues about what kind of a judge Barrett would be, her academic record was placed under the microscope and repeatedly dissected during the hearing. Even a lecture she gave for Alliance Defending Freedoms (ADF) Blackstone Legal Fellowship program drew intense scrutiny.

Here are some highlights of the 2017 hearing that could offer a glimpse into what the Senate committees confirmation hearing could look like:

Role of Faith in Deciding Cases

Barrett was repeatedly pressed by senators on both sides of the aisle about a law review article she co-authored with one of her professors in 1998 (pdf), as a third-year student. The paper explored the conflict of a Catholic judges faith and his or her judicial responsibility in death penalty cases.

In the paper, she and her co-author suggested that Catholic judges were morally precluded from enforcing the death penalty and that judges cannotnor should they try toalign our legal system with the Churchs moral teaching whenever the two diverge.

They suggested the best course of action to such a conflict would be the recusal of judges whose convictions keep them from doing their job.

During the hearing, Barrett was asked whether her stance had changed since then and to explain how her religious views would affect her jurisprudence as a judge by multiple senators, including then-committee Chairman Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa).

Sen. Grassley: Id like to specifically discuss a law review article you wrote during law school entitled, Catholic Judges in Capital Cases.  First question, youve had a couple decades of experience since you wrote this, to consider this issue further, will you elaborate on these points and discuss how you view the issue of faith versus fulfilling the responsibilities as a judge today? When is it proper for a judge to put their religious views above applying the law?

Ms. Barrett: Let me start with your very last question and say never. Its never appropriate for a judge to impose that judges personal convictions, whether they derive from faith or anywhere else on the law.

She then explained the context of how the paper was written, adding that some of her views on the issue had changed since writing the paper 20 years ago. She then went on to stress that a judge is never permitted to follow their personal convictions when deciding a case.

I continue to stand and vehemently believe the core proposition of that article, which is that if there is ever a conflict between a judges personal conviction, and that judges duty under the rule of law, that it is never ever permissible for that judge to follow their personal convictions and the decision of a case rather than what the law requires, she said.

Later in the hearing, when asked about whether she would recuse herself in death penalty cases, she indicated that she wouldnt and that she had routinely participated in capital cases when she clerked for Justice Antonin Scalia.

Judge Amy Coney Barrett, President Donald Trumps nominee for the Supreme Court, looks on during a meeting with Senate Majority Whip John Thune (R-S.D.), on Capitol Hill in Washington on Sept. 29, 2020. (Shawn Thew/Pool via Reuters)

Precedents

Barrett fielded a number of questions about her stance on how Supreme Court rulings, usually called precedents, apply to lower courts. Most of the questions appeared to test whether Barrett would overrule decisions that she didnt agree on, in particular ones relating to important social issues such as abortion.

Throughout the hearing and in her written answers to the committee, Barrett made it clear that as an appeals court judge, she would be obligated to follow Supreme Court precedent and precedent from her own circuit.

I understand circuit judges to be absolutely bound by the precedent of the Supreme Court and the Supreme Court has held on a case called Rodriguez de Quijas that that obligation is absolute that circuit court judges are not permitted, for example, to anticipate overrulings of the court and jump the gun, Barrett told Grassley.

She also added that circuit courts are bound to follow the precedent of their own circuit meaning that judges follow precedent unless there are extraordinary circumstances that justify its overruling.

Barrett also added that there are many other mechanisms of the law that restrained judges from correcting precedents that they may not like or that they think are wrong. She said these mechanisms such as the case or controversy requirement, the rule that judges only decide the question presented before them contribute to the stability of the law and prevent judges from overruling precedents based on their own personal convictions.

Her Views on Roe v. Wade

The senators throughout the hearing pressed Barretts views over the 1973 Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court ruling that legalized abortion in all 50 states, seeking to understand how the professor would apply the precedent in any potential cases.

Barrett repeatedly reiterated that if she was confirmed as an appeals court judge, all Supreme Court decisions would be binding on her. But throughout the hearing, she did not address whether Roe would be reviewable by the Supreme Court, which she is now nominated to.

Multiple senators asked Barrett about a law journal article she wrote in 2013 (pdf) in which she differentiated simple precedents and super precedents, a term used to describe a case that no justice would overrule, even if he or she disagrees with the interpretive premise, according to the definition Barrett used. In the article, she lists a number of super precedents but didnt include Roe.

Senators were quick to question her decision for doing that.

Sen. Feinstein: Why did you solely focus on the fact that Roe has been challenged by litigants on so many occasions, and not on the fact that the Supreme Court has repeatedly reaffirmed Roe in literally dozens of decisions?

Ms. Barrett: Thank you, Senator Feinstein. That wasnt my list. I was addressing arguments that had been made by other professors, serious well-respected scholars like Richard Fallon at Harvard, and Michael Gerhart, at North Carolina. And it wasnt my list. I was quoting them and I was quoting their definition of super-precedent. One thing I would observe is that for a court of appeals, all Supreme Court precedent is super-precedent. So as I said to Chairman Grassley, as a Court of Appeals judge, if I were confirmed, I would follow all Supreme Court precedents without fail.

During questioning by Sen. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Barrett was asked whether she would include Roe on the list if a different definition of super-precedent was used.

Ms. Barrett: If you use a different definition of super-precedentfor example, a precedent thats more than 40 years old and that has survived multiple challengesthen I would include Roe on that list. It wasnt the definition

Sen. Hirono: You would includedid you say you would include Roe on that list of super-precedents?

Ms. Barrett: If super-precedent were defined differently. Super-precedent is used differently in different contexts. And in the particular context in which I was writing, the particular definition that was used, it did not satisfy that definition. What Im saying is that if you use a different definition of super precedent, which some people do, I think Roe could satisfy a different definition.

Given that Barrett has been nominated to the Supreme Court, where she has the ability to influence precedents in the country, its likely that the topic would be raised again in the October hearing.

Sen. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) at a Senate Judiciary Constitution Subcommittee hearing, titled Stifling Free Speech: Technological Censorship and the Public Discourse on Capitol Hill in Washington on April 10, 2019. (Jeenah Moon/Reuters)

On the Issue of Recusal

Barrett was asked several times whether she would recuse herself from any cases, especially in relation to the death penalty.

During the hearing, she responded, I cant think of any cases or category of cases in which I would feel obliged to recuse on grounds of conscience, while adding that she will act according to relevant law.

Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) pressed Barrett again (pdf) in his written questions to her, asking her to list specific examples of when she would recuse herself.

She replied: I will recuse from any cases in which applicable law requires me to do so, including cases in which I have a financial interest; cases in which my husband, Jesse Barrett, participated; and, for a period of time, from cases in which my current employer, the University of Notre Dame, is a party.

If confirmed, I will be vigilant about my recusal obligation, and to determine its full scope, I will consult all relevant law, including 28 U.S.C.  455 and the Code of Conduct for United States Judges. Where necessary, I will seek advice from those designated to give it, both in the Seventh Circuit and at the Administrative Office of the United States Courts.

Controversial Lecture

Former Sen. Al Franken (D-Minn.) in 2017 pressed Barrett about her decision to speak to the Blackstone Legal Fellowship program, which is affiliated to Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), a religious liberty non-profit organization.

The left-wing Southern Poverty Law Center, which maintains a list of what they claim are hate groups, had classified ADF as a hate group for its LGBTQ and marriage views. It had also classified many churches across the country as hate groups for the same reason.

I actually wasnt aware until I received the honorarium and saw the ADF on the check, or maybe when I saw an email and saw the signature line. But, yes, ADF is the organization that sponsors the Blackstone, she said.

Franken then pressed her on whether she was aware of the Southern Poverty Law Centers classification of ADF and the religious rights groups policy positions.

Im invited to give a lot of talks as a law professor and  I dont know what all of ADFs policy positions are and it has never been my practice to investigate all of the policy positions of a group that invites me to speak, Barrett said.

In written responses to the Senate committee, Barrett clarified her response.

At the time I gave a lecture at the Blackstone Legal Fellowship Program, I was generally aware that the program supported a traditional view of marriage, she said. I did not know what positions the Alliance Defending Freedom took in litigation or as a matter of public policy, and if the Alliance Defending Freedom was working to end same-sex marriage or recriminalize homosexuality abroad, I did not know it.

I do not know even now whether the Southern Poverty Law Centers characterization of the Alliance Defending Freedoms position on these issues or any other is accurate. As I stated at the hearing, I understand its characterization to be a matter of public controversy.

On Judges Who Align With Views, Judicial Approach

In a written question to Barrett, Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) asked her (pdf) to identify judges who she thought aligned with her view or judicial decision making.

Barrett named three Supreme Court justices, adding that there are many more judges and justices who she would seek to emulate. The three were Justice Antonin Scalia, who she clerked for, Chief Justice John Marshall, who was chief justice from 1801 to 1835, and Justice Elena Kagan, who is currently on the bench.

Justice Antonin Scalia, for whom I clerked, is the justice I know best, and I admire the fluidity of his thought, the clarity of his writing, and his careful attention to statutory and constitutional text, she said.

Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia at the American Bar Association (ABA) 59th annual Antitrust Law Spring meeting in Washington, on March 31, 2011. (Jewel Samad/AFP/Getty Images)

She also said she admired Marshall for his commitment to consensus and collegiality, which manifested itself in both the resolution of cases and his personal relationships with colleagues.

Her admiration for Kagan is due to the way in which she is able to bring the knowledge and skill she acquired as an academic to the practical resolution of disputes.
(Newser)  There's perhaps no one better to sum up the first presidential debate of 2020 than Weird Al Yankovic. And that's what he does to hilarious effect in a new video for the New York Times titled "America Is Doomed." It features the catchy refrain, "Who's it gonna be? / In the West Wing? / We're living in the apocalypse / I'm begging you to put a stop to this, pretty please." As Al, standing in for the moderator, covers topics ranging from the coronavirus pandemic to the Supreme Court vacancy, auto-tuned President Trump and Joe Biden weigh in with their comments from the night. Billboard calls it "the only good thing that seems to have come out of [the] chaotic presidential debate." (Read more Al Yankovic stories.)
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Linkedin Ghina Ghaliya (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Thu, October 1, 2020 17:55 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c48831d5 1 Politics amien-rais,PAN,ummah-party,partai-ummat Free

Former National Mandate Party (PAN) patron Amien Rais, a staunch critic of President Joko Jokowi Widodos administration, declared his newly established party called Partai Ummat, or the Ummah Party, on Thursday following his departure amid an internal rift within PAN.

Amien announced the new party through a broadcast on his Youtube channel, Amien Rais Official.

God willing, the Ummah Party will work and fight with the other elements of the nation against tyranny and injustice, he said in his speech.

Amien, a key figure in the 1998 reform movement against former president Soeharto and PAN founder, went on to say that a country, with all of its power, could be zalim (cruel) to its people in terms of political, economic, social, legal and human rights so that it would need a government that sided with the people.

"It all depends on the government, whether it is defending the people and the ummah [community] or the conglomerates?, he said.

Read also: Amien Rais prepares new party amid PAN internal rift

In the broadcast event Amien quoted several Qur'an verses, such as al amru bil ma'ruf and an-nahyu 'anil munkar (upholding virtue and fighting evil) and al amru bil' adli and an-nahyu 'anidzulmi (enforcing justice and fighting injustice).

"The Ummah Party will work to uphold Pancasila, the 1945 Constitution, and all universal democratic rules, he added.

Amien was in a tug-of-war with other PAN politicians over support for Jokowis administration. In the 2019 presidential elections, the party supported Jokowis contender Gerindra Party chairman Prabowo Subianto. Prabowo now serves as Jokowis defense minister and his party also has joined the ruling coalition.

PAN chairman Zulkifli Hasan has met Jokowi several times to discuss the possibility of PAN joining the coalition, much to Amiens dismay. However, the party is still outside the government coalition.

The internal rift within the party started after the election ended. Amien's son Hanafi Rais decided to resign from the party and gave up his position as a lawmaker and chairman of the PAN faction at the House. He argued that the party lacked improvement, lambasting the party for tending to support the government when it was supposed to be in opposition.
The President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has cut the sod for work to commence on the 83.5-kilometre standard gauge railway line from Kumasi to Obuasi, as part of the new Western Line being constructed.



Performing the sod cutting ceremony, on Wednesday, 30th September 2020, President Akufo-Addo noted that, by January 2017, out of the 947 kilometres of colonial narrow-gauge rail network bequeathed to the country by the colonialists, barely 10% was operational.



He stated that, apart from the 15 kilometre narrow gauge railway line, built between 2012 and 2017, from Sekondi to Takoradi via Kojokrom, no kilometre of railway line had been added.



Upon my assumption of office, I was determined to change this statistic, because I believed that the presence of an efficient, effective railway system was critical to the progress, prosperity and development of our nation. This led me to the decision to establish the Ministry of Railways Development, with the dynamic Hon. Joe Ghartey, Member of Parliament for Essikadu Ketan at the helm of affairs. By all accounts, this has started yielding fruits, the President said.



He continued, Todays event, the cutting of the sod for the construction of the 83.5km Kumasi to Obuasi line, is a clear manifestation of the Akufo-Addo Governments policy to grow and develop the countrys railway sector.



It will be recalled that, earlier this year, Cabinet and Parliament both approved a 500 million agreement for the construction of a new standard gauge line from Takoradi Harbour to Kojokrom, and also from Manso to Huni Valley.



Once this is completed, one hundred and two kilometres (102km) of new standard-gauge railway lines would have been constructed, as part of the development of a new standard-gauge Western Line.



President Akufo-Addo explained that the Western Line is critical to the successful establishment of the new bauxite and aluminum industry being promoted by Government.



The Sheini and Oppon Manso iron ore deposits, which will form the basis of the imminent iron and steel industry, according to the President, require a modern railway network to transport the ore and the processed raw material.



Additionally, President Akufo-Addo told the gathering that work is also progressing steadily on the Tema to Mpakadan Line, which is the first phase of the Tema to Paga section of the Ghana-Burkina Railway Interconnectivity Project.



This railway line has branch lines to Sheini and Oppon Manso. The exploitation of the bauxite deposits at Atiwa, as part of the nascent bauxite and aluminum industry, will also benefit from the construction of a new railway line, he added.



With the imminent commencement of construction of the Boankra Inland Port, following the approval by Parliament of a $300 million concession facility, the President stated that, since 1995, the country has been been grappling with the development of the inland port.



The economic viability of the Boankra Inland Project, he stressed, will be greatly enhanced by the presence of a railway line, adding that a new standard gauge railway line from Accra to Tema to Kumasi is a must, and I expect contracts to be signed for the commencement of the construction of a line from Accra to Tema towards Kumasi before the December elections.



With the countrys railway network having never gone beyond Kumasi, the President announced that a feasibility study and the preliminary design of a new standard gauge line, from Eduabin to Paga through Bechem, Sunyani, Techiman and Tamale, has been completed.



Next week, final stakeholder holder consultations will commence, after which the processes for land acquisition will begin. Let me take the opportunity to appeal to the chiefs, who are the custodians of our land, to give their full support to this project. The economic value of all lands, where there is development of the railway line, will be greatly enhanced, he added.



In the first four years of his administration, President Akufo-Addo noted that more construction activity in the railway sector has gone on than in any period of the countrys history since independence.



Over the last three years and ten months we have laid a solid foundation, which will receive an even greater impetus when Nana and the NPP get four more years to do more for you. My commitment to the development of a new modern standard railway network is unwavering, he assured.

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 ground-breaking ceremony of the Innovative Startup Center in Ho Chi Minh City

This civil engineering work of grade II is totally invested VND323 trillion ($14 billion) with a usable surface area of around 20,000 square metres on six floors and four basements, 9,818sq.m of which are construction floor area and 10,472sq.m are basement area.

The projects are anticipated to be finished after 360 days since October 1. The project will have a lifetime of 50-100 years and will be built on state budget funds.

The centre is located at 123 Truong Dinh Street, Ward 7, District 3 and was defined as the headquarters and platform for startup and innovative activities in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, building up the future for the cultural industry of Ho Chi Minh City and the whole nation.

Nguyen Thanh Phong, chairman of Ho Chi Minh City Peoples Committee noted that the new Innovative Startup Center in Ho Chi Minh City will be the first centre supporting startups for the whole city.

The project owner is Ho Chi Minh City House Trade Management Co., Ltd. while Consultancy Co., Ltd. of University of Civil Engineering plays the role of design consulting units. Thanh An 96 Installation and Construction JSC and Thai Minh Civil Construction and Trade Co., Ltd. are set to be the construction units.

The project was approved by the ninth Ho Chi Minh City Peoples Council in July 2019. In the first quarter of this year, the Peoples Committee held the selection contest for the architecture design of the centre.
DALLAS, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- A team of Thompson & Knight trial lawyers obtained an extraordinary victory on Sept. 29, as the United States District Court for the District of Puerto Rico issued a ruling dismissing all pending charges against their client, Bell Helicopter Vice President Javier Ortiz. Mr. Ortiz was charged with two counts of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of making a false statement on a loan application. The allegations centered on an approximately $30 million transaction involving the sale of four Bell helicopters to the Puerto Rico government. The prosecutors have dropped all charges related to the transaction.

"In a case of this magnitude, it is very rare for the federal prosecutor to dismiss all criminal charges prior to going to trial," said Richard B. Roper, a partner at Thompson & Knight and lead counsel on the case. "We are proud of this positive outcome for our client and are very pleased with the District Court's dismissal of all pending charges."

The government agreed to dismiss all charges against Mr. Ortiz based in large part on the TK team's discussions with United States Attorney Stephen Muldrow, during which TK lawyers were able to explain the complexities of the transaction to the prosecutors, and successfully demonstrated Mr. Ortiz's innocence.

The Dallas-based trial team was led by Richard Roper, Elissa McClure, and Javan Porter, as well as local counsel based in Puerto Rico, Lydia Lizarribar.

About Thompson & Knight

Established in 1887, Thompson & Knight is a full-service law firm with approximately 300 attorneys. The Firm provides legal solutions to clients and communities around the world. For 10 consecutive years, Thompson & Knight has been recognized in The Best Lawyers in America among the most highly recognized law firms in the United States. For more information, visit www.tklaw.com.

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This year, as the president has been talking about Fraud like youve never seen. They have these fake ballots. Theyre trying to rig an election, and we cant let that happen. I hope youre all going to be poll watchers. His language has taken on an almost militaristic tone. Go into the polls and watch very carefully. Be poll watchers when you go there. Watch all the thieving and stealing and robbing they do. There is no evidence of widespread voter fraud in U.S. elections. Still, the president talks about recruiting an army of poll watchers. Its taken on such an aggressive nature in a way that weve kind of never seen before. Its very frightening to election officials. It paints poll watching with a veneer of antagonism, combat and not in the spirit of protecting our elections. But its more than just rhetoric. This year, the Republican Party can throw its full weight behind the presidents poll watching operations in ways we havent seen for nearly 40 years. To understand why, lets take a trip back in time  Wherever I go, people ask me what a New Jersey vacation is like  to a governors race in New Jersey in 1981. When I ran in that election, it was a very interesting election, to say the least. This was the Democratic candidate James Florio. And here he is now. Thats a long time ago, thats 40 years ago. The race was an early referendum on the Reagan administration. I like Tom Kean. Kean has endorsed Reaganomics and proposed cuts in state taxes on business. The Democratic candidate, Congressman James Florio, attacks both Reagans and Keans economic plan. We thought it would be an election on the merits of the issues  revitalizing our railroads, cleaning up toxic waste, strengthening law enforcement  turned out that was not all involving the merits. It was the closest fought election in the history of the state. But as it turns out, it wasnt a clean fight. Election day yielded some surprises to a lot of people who went to the polls because people saw off duty policemen with armbands that said members of the Ballot Security Task Force. Thats the Republican group, which according to state Democrats, intimidated some minority voters. It looked very official. And they were standing there with their guns. They obstructed voters from casting ballots. But also they obstructed access by poll workers. More than 200 task force members showed up at the polls, confronting voters in Democratic strongholds. They were in Newark but not in Short Hills. They were in Trenton but not Princeton. And Camden but not in Cherry Hill. If you look at the demographics of the neighborhoods that were targeted for these efforts, they were all predominantly Black and Latinx neighborhoods. White voters were not targeted in the same way at all. So it was clear that theyre not concerned about ballot integrity. Theyre concerned about intimidation. It was a very clever, sinister initiative. In the end, Florio lost by a razor thin margin. 1,797 votes out of 2.3 million votes. The intimidation had an impact on the outcome of the election. Its a case of sour grapes from Democrats that dont know how to take defeat. But this wasnt just a local effort. Investigations suggested that the task force was organized and paid for by the Republican National Committee. A covert operation that was at the very least intentionally misleading and resulted in technical violations of our election laws. Democrats sued the R.N.C. for violating the Voting Rights Act. The R.N.C. was forced to enter into a federal consent decree that would restrict them for years to come. For the better part of the past four decades, the Republican National Party has been under a consent decree that has limited their ability to coordinate some of these poll watching activities. So it created a mechanism that deterred any additional voter intimidation and also created a check on future R.N.C. efforts that might target minority communities. Under the terms of the consent decree, the R.N.C. had to get court approval for poll watching plans. The party tried unsuccessfully to get out of it for many years. And they were found to be in violation of the consent decree at least three times since it was put into place. Then in 2017, the court allowed the consent decree to expire, setting up a different kind of fight in 2020. This will be the first presidential election where we will see the Republican National Party operating a poll watching operation without the consent decree hovering over their heads. Now that it has been lifted, it looks like there is going to be a more organized and a bigger poll watching operation coming out of the Republican National Party. Republicans say theyre training more than 50,000 poll watchers in at least 15 battleground states. Theyve released a series of carefully worded training presentations for volunteers. Poll watchers are the first line of defense for President Trump. Be courteous to county staff and other watchers. Yes, even our Democrat friends. Do not speak with voters and do not interfere with the orderly conduct of the voting process. Their presence at the polls is perfectly legal if they follow the rules. In early voting this year, there have been a few potential violations. Pennsylvanias attorney general called out illegal surveillance of a ballot dropbox in Philadelphia. And local news in Florida reported on two armed private security guards who posted themselves near an early voting site. Two armed security guards showed up outside of the downtown St. Pete early voting location. Pretty much ever since the president has been calling on his supporters to watch the polls, election officials and law enforcement agencies across the country have kind of been preparing for what may be an influx of people who dont know the rules and regulations of poll watching. In a statement, the R.N.C. said its poll watchers have received rigorous training to follow state laws and are not there to be intimidating. The big unknown is exactly how big and how widespread the deployment of these poll watchers will be and whether they will have any kind of marching orders from the Republican Party or the Trump campaign to really question a bunch of voters eligibility or whether theyll just kind of follow the more traditional ways. Ultimately, the consent decree offered a legal shortcut to stop the R.N.C.s poll watching operations if they crossed the line. Whats important to keep in mind is that the tactics that were unlawful in 1980 are just as unlawful in 2020. There has never been permission for any political party or any private party to engage in racially targeted voter intimidation or voter intimidation of any sort. And so were not without protection. Were not without tools to combat it. But we do have one less in our arsenal. If we see a resumption of the same type of thing this time, well have to go back to court. I can be authoritatively the person that can be definitive and say that small margins make a big difference.
Over the years, I have been fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to show mayors, county commissioners, Governor (Mark) Gordon and other elected leaders and stakeholders around one of my favorite places in the world -- the Greater Little Mountain Area (GLMA). This special place is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, cherished for its sought-after hunting and fishing, and deeply valued for its significant economic and cultural significance to Wyomingites. Newcomers are always stunned by the beauty of the wide-open spaces and wildlife -- and I find myself humbled by the opportuni...
During Tuesday nights debate, the president downplayed the potential dangers of his infamous rallies where attendees did not wear masks or socially distance

During a fiery debate on Tuesday night, President Donald Trump and Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden sparred over a range of political issues as millions of American voters watched from their homes.

One of the most contentious topics was the COVID-19 pandemic, which has infected more than 7 million Americans and killed more than 200,000. The debate moderator, Fox News Chris Wallace, asked Trump about the potential exposure of some of his campaign rallies during the pandemic where attendees were not wearing masks or socially distancing.

Read More: Trump, Biden lash out, interrupt each other in angry debate

Trump insisted that there were no negative effects that stemmed from his rallies and took a jab at Biden, arguing that the former U.S. vice president was essentially envious of his crowd turnouts. Weve had no negative effect. Weve had no negative effect. And weve had 35  45,000 people at these rallies, he said.

Despite Trumps attempt to downplay the potential dangers of his rallies, Twitter was quick to point out that former Republican presidential candidate and Trump campaign staffer Herman Cain died of COVID-19 complications just weeks after attending a Trump rally in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Donald Trump is a LIAR!!! He just said that his rallies during a pandemic have had no negative affect on people? Ask Herman Cain how that worked out for him! And that rally was INDOORS! He is the Spreader-in-Chief!, tweeted veteran White House correspondent and author April Ryan.

MSNBC anchor Melvin Craig similarly tweeted, So far weve had no problem whatsoever.- @realDonaldTrump on his rallies. A reminder. Herman Cain died from Covid after attending a rally.

Donald Trump is a LIAR!!!



He just said that his rallies during a pandemic have had no negative affect on people? Ask Herman Cain how that worked out for him!



And that rally was INDOORS!



He is the Spreader-in-Chief!#Debates2020 #HermanCain  AprilDRyan (@AprilDRyan) September 30, 2020

So far weve had no problem whatsoever.- @realDonaldTrump on his rallies. A reminder. Herman Cain died from Covid after attending a rally.  Craig Melvin (@craigmelvin) September 30, 2020

Former Republican presidential candidate Herman Cain speaks at the Cains Revolution on the Hill Tax Day Rally at the U.S. Capitol April 16, 2012 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images)

The tweets pointing out Cains death and its possible connection to Trumps rally in Tulsa continued to pour in. Trump: weve had no problems whatsoever with people getting covid at our rallies Herman Cain: Herman Cains zombie twitter: Wait, I tweeted actress and director Aisha Tyler.

Story continues

Another Twitter user wrote, Did Donald Trump really say theyve had no problems with COVID related to his rallies? Did I dream up Herman Cains death? These black republicans be out here c00ning for Massah and they dont give a sh*t about your ass.

While it is largely believed Cain, who was not wearing a mask, contracted the virus at Trumps rally, both a Cain representative and the White House have tried to downplay the connection. I realize people will speculate about the Tulsa rally, but Herman did a lot of traveling the past week, said Dan Calabrese, the editor of Cains website. I dont think theres any way to trace this to one specific contact that caused the infection. Well never know.

Whats more, local health officials in Tulsa said in July that Trumps rally and protests that took place there around the same time more than likely contributed to a surge of COVID-19 cases in the city.

Have you subscribed to theGrios podcast Dear Culture? Download our newest episodes now!

The post Trump says his rallies didnt spread virus, many recall Herman Cains death appeared first on TheGrio.
Lawmakers from the Lower House of the United States Congress have passed legislation that would require US-listed companies to disclose if their supply chains are connected to forced labour in Chinas Xinjiang Uyghur autonomous region.

The Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act was passed on Wednesday (local time) in a 253-163 vote by the US House of Representatives, South China Morning Post reported.

The Bill would require US companies to disclose whether any of their supply chain -- can be traced to internment camps or factories suspected of using forced labour of Uyghur or other ethnic minorities in China. The measure will now head to the Senate for consideration.

Republican Representative Bill Huizenga said that their party was in robust agreement with Democrats about the need to combat forced labour.

During the debate on the House floor, Huizenga accused Democrats of pushing through an empty window dressing bill that hurts US investors and companies but unfortunately simply pays lip service to the Uygurs.

Meanwhile, Democrats said that only US-listed companies should be subjected to heightened scrutiny over forced labour in Xinjiang.

Last month, the House of Representatives had passed the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act to ban imports of products into the US that were made with forced labour in Xinjiang and sanction individuals involved in labour trafficking.

The Trump administration announced earlier in September that it will immediately block imports made in Xinjiang to end alleged forced labour practices.

Human rights groups have accused the Chinese authorities of detaining more than a million people, mostly Uyghurs, Kazakhs, and Kyrgyz, in a network of detention centres as part of an assimilation campaign.

China has denied the charges, saying the camps were built for vocational and Chinese language training.
Three Pacific Northwest law firms have filed a class action lawsuit against the Pacific Power utility and its parent company, PacifiCorp, claiming they failed to shut down power lines that allegedly came down during high winds and ignited wildfires in Oregon.

The lawsuit, filed in Multnomah County Circuit Court, names Jeanyne James and Robin Colbert as lead plaintiffs.

'The couple lost their home, garage and cars in the small community of Lyons, Oregon, to a wildfire that raced through a canyon last month, The Oregonian/OregonLive reported Thursday.

Three law firms have filed a class action lawsuit against Pacific Power and its parent company, PacifiCorp, for negligence in regards to not shutting down power lines amid a windstorm and wildfire conditions

Pictured: The charred remains of the Oregon Department of Forestry, North Cascade District Office, after it was destroyed by a wildfire, in Lyons, Oregon

The Northwest Interagency Fire Coordination Center said in a report last month that downed power lines were responsible for 13 separate fires. Monica and Larry Garrison, left, walk with friends Donna and Victor Baumann to a neighbor's property destroyed in the Beachie Fire in Mehama, Oregon

The Portland-based utility has previously said it doesn't know if its equipment caused any fires.

Fire officials have not yet cited an official cause of the fires.

But the Northwest Interagency Fire Coordination Center that tracks and coordinates firefighting efforts across the northwestern states said in a report last month that downed power lines were responsible for 13 separate fires along a 30-mile stretch of Oregon's Santiam Canyon.

The lawsuit appears to hinge on the NIFCC's assessment.

The Beachie Creek Fire as of Thursday afternoon has ravaged 192,848 acres and is only 58 per cent contained since it sparked on August 16, the National Wildfire Coordinating Group said.

Jeanyne James (left) and Robin Colbert (right), who lost their home in an Oregon wildfire, were listed a plaintiffs in the lawsuit

In a previous interview with KATU 2, James and Colbert spend 17 years investing into their home before it was burned up in the fire over Labor Day Weekend.

Photos showed the couple's property littered with scorched debris and metal as the bare bones of their home sat nearby.

'Just all the hard work it took to get to where we were, the thought of trying to do that again. I don't know if I have the heart. I don't know if have the energy or the heart,' James told KATU 2.

The blaze was one of multiple fires that burned across the state starting on that date.

The wildfires destroyed several thousand homes and killed nine people in Oregon and two in northern California.

Infernos in Oregon have burned more than one million acres, while those in California have destroyed more than 2.2million acres.

More than five million acres have been lost across the West Coast, from Arizona to Washington, this year alone.

Lawsuit: 'Defendants' energized power lines ignited massive, deadly and destructive fires that raced down the canyons, igniting and destroying homes, businesses and schools'

The lawsuit alleged the high winds also toppled energized power lines that sparked some of the blazes.

'Defendants' energized power lines ignited massive, deadly and destructive fires that raced down the canyons, igniting and destroying homes, businesses and schools,' the lawsuit said.

'These fires burned over hundreds of thousands of acres, destroyed thousands of structures, killed people and upended countless lives.'

Drew Hanson, spokesman for utility parent company PacifiCorp, said the company does not comment on pending litigation.

This drone photo provided by Michael Mann shows the Oregon Capitol building, with its 'Oregon Pioneer' bronze sculpture atop the dome, with skies filled with smoke and ash from wildfires as a backdrop in Salem, Oregon

The Beachie Creek Fire as of Thursday afternoon has ravaged 192,848 acres and is only 58 per cent contained since it sparked on August 16

The lawsuit's claim that PacifiCorp negligently left power lines up during the Labor Day Weekend windstorm echoed criticisms leveled at California's Pacific Gas & Electric.

PG&E faced legal and financial backlash after one of its transmission lines sparked the Camp fire in 2018. That fire devastated the town of Paradise, destroying 11,000 homes and claiming 85 lives.

PG&E, Californias largest utility, was criminally charged and in June pleaded guilty to 84 counts of masnslaughter, as well as one count of illegally starting a fire.

They will pay $4million in fines regarding that case.

PG&Es equipment has been found to have set dozens of fires in recent years, and it faced $30 billion in claims before filing for bankruptcy protection.

The utility agreed in May to pay $13.5 billion in cash and stock to settle those claims after filing for bankruptcy.

In June, Chief Executive Bill Johnson stood in front of a judge and said 'Guilty, your honor' more than 80 times for involuntary manslaughter in the deaths of the fire victims.

Pictured: Homes leveled by the Camp Fire line at the Ridgewood Mobile Home Park retirement community in Paradise, California

In the dramatic meeting he had to stare at the pictures of each victim.

'Im here today on behalf of the 23,000 men and women of PG&E to take responsibility for the fire that killed these people,' he said before the court.

'No words from me can ever reduce the magnitude of that devastation,' he added.

The families of the dead then spent an emotionally draining day in court telling the heartbreaking stories of their anguish and venting their anger.

PG&E used the proceedings to express its regret for the lethal decisions that caused the fire and has promised to overhaul a corporate culture that long emphasized boosting profits for investors over protecting the safety of the 16million people who rely on the utility for power.

Pictured: Firefighters and deputies carry the body of a Camp Fire victim at the Holly Hills Mobile Estates in Paradise, California

'On behalf of everyone at PG&E, I am truly sorry for the terrible loss of life and the physical and emotional damage resulting from the fire,' PG&E board member, Bill Smith, who will replace Johnson as the company's interim CEO June 30, said.

'I recognize no apology, no plea, no sentencing can undo that damage,' Smith continued in his statement of contrition to Deems. 'And no passage of time can lessen the anguish that we heard expressed in this courtroom.

'All of us know actions speak louder than words. We have taken action and we will continue to take action to combat the growing threat of wildfires. And to keep our customers and our communities safe.'
The pandemic has hurt Gary workers more than most in Indiana. The citys unemployment rate soared to 15.8% last month, compared to 7.5% in the previous August. Indianas August 2020 unemployment rate was 6.4%, compared to the national rate of 8.4%, according to the state Department of Workforce Development.
New Delhi, Oct 1 : Expressing her concerns over the rising rape incidents in the country, women's activist Yogita Bhayana, who has been actively working for rape victims, has urged the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to take suo motu cognisance on recent cases including the Hathras gangrape.

Bhayana has asked the NHRC to frame a mechanism to make India a "rape-free nation". "Thus, I request you to kindly take an appropriate cognisance on the above said cases and work on the mechanism to make India a 'rape-free country'," Bhayana said in her letter to NHRC.

"I would like to highlight and draw the attention on the topic regarding the safety of women in our beloved country. I am deeply perturbed with the brutal rapes committed in Utter Pradesh along with atrocious murder of these very young girls. In 2018, a woman was raped every fifteen minutes, reveals data from the National Crime Records Bureau. There were 33,977 rapes reported that year," said Bhayana, who runs a foundation called People Against Rapes in India (PARI).

She added that the gangrape which took place in Hathras in Uttar Pradesh on September 15 has not only shaken our country rather around the world people are concerned about the safety and security of women in India.

"The culprits involved in this particular incident have surpassed all levels of atrocities on the girl which is extremely shocking and sad. Hence, girl succumbed to her injuries. I have personally observed the lacklustre attitude of the administration and police in this particular matter," read the letter.

The anti-rape activist who is working for the past two decades in this field also highlighted that a new phenomena has been noticed that culprits would not leave the victim alive so they go beyond the levels of inhumanity in killing the victim. The Hathras victim's tongue was cut and her spine was broken with multiple fractures.
HALIFAXDalhousies faculty association says the universitys president may have violated academic freedom after he emailed teachers, staff and students to warn them against making negative comments about an Indigenous-run fishery.

The presidents letter, dated Sept. 23, came after weeks of tension between Indigenous and non-Indigenous fishers over the right of the Sipeknekatik First Nation to fish and sell lobster during the off-season in southwestern Nova Scotia.

Negative comments against the Indigenous community exercising their right to a livelihood are not reflective of Dalhousies core values, reads the email, signed by Dalhousie president Deep Saini and vice-provost Theresa Rajack-Talley.

This includes any disparaging comments by any Dalhousie community member(s).

Faculty association president David Westwood said Wednesday his organization is looking into whether the email is a violation of academic freedom. He declined to make further comments.

David Robinson, the executive director of the Canadian Association of University Teachers, says the letter comes off as ambiguous at best.

It tended to conflate things that might be legitimately criticism with things that might be harassment or discrimination that are illegal under the law, he said in an interview Wednesday. Negative comments themselves dont breach regulations and are protected by the universitys principles of academic freedom of expression, he added.

Robinson said Dalhousie should consider clarifying the statements as different interpretations could leave faculty wondering if negative comments could lead to disciplinary actions. I think theyve handled this a little awkwardly.

Dalhousie spokesperson Janet Bryson said Wednesday the president sent the email to promote and emphasize respectful dialogue within our community in line with our values and in response to matter where unacceptable, discriminatory remarks were made.

This was not related to academic faculty sharing their expertise. Academic freedom is a core value of Dalhousie University and we support our facultys rights and responsibilities within this area, Bryson said in an email.

Mikmaq fishers have been asserting their treaty right, which was affirmed in a 1999 Supreme Court decision, to fish for a moderate livelihood.

They say non-Indigenous fishers have threatened and intimidated them for their off-season fishery. The Sipeknekatik First Nation says non-Indigenous fishers recently removed 350 Mikmaq lobster traps from St. Marys Bay and vandalized equipment and vessels.

Non-Indigenous fishers, however, say the Mikmaq should follow the licensing system established by the federal government, which prohibits lobster fishing during the off-season, which is from May to November.

Colin Sproul, president of the Bay of Fundy Inshore Fishermens Association, said Wednesday the presidents letter has driven a wedge between the commercial fishing associations and the marine science department at Dalhousie.

Anybody ... at Dalhousie should be concentrating on science and not politics and those statements cant be viewed as anything but political statements, Sproul said in an interview.

Sproul says the off-season was created to allow the lobster stocks to replenish. But that claim has been criticized by some marine experts, who say the stocks are plentiful and the Indigenous fishery doesnt pose an ecological threat.

Fred Whoriskey, an adjunct professor in the biology department, disagrees with Sproul. A day after the president sent the email, the biology department published a statement of support for the Mikmaq fishers on its website.

The Department of Biology at Dalhousie University stands in solidarity with Mikmaw fishers, the statement reads. We respect the rule of law and reject the use of violence in all circumstances for the settling of disputes.

Whoriskey said the department isnt concerned about appearing biased because the statement doesnt breach the universitys concerns about hateful comments toward the Indigenous community.

We understand the university is an academic institution with academic freedom, Whoriskey said in an interview Wednesday. So honest debate, respectful debate surrounding a variety of different issues, hopefully the university would be the place that would foster these kinds of discussion in a constructive and civil manner.

Read more about:
A Delhi Police head constable was thrashed allegedly by civil defence volunteers deployed in west Delhis Naraina following an argument over not wearing a face mask on Wednesday evening.

The policeman was not wearing his uniform at the time of incident. A video of the assault was widely shared on social media after which the police registered a case of assault against the volunteers on Thursday to probe the incident.

Police said the fracas took place around 7.30pm at the Naraina Vihar traffic signal when head constable Naresh, posted at the Connaught Place police station, was returning home on his motorcycle. In his complaint, Naresh said a team of civil defence volunteers who were penalising people for not wearing mask stopped him.

A senior police officer, who wished not to be named, said initial inquiry suggests that Naresh was also not wearing a face mask. After he was stopped, he had an argument with the volunteers that later turned violent, he said.

The officer also said they are checking who these volunteers were and on whose orders they were deployed in the area.

Police are also looking into allegations against the head constable of having misbehaved with a woman volunteer when she stopped him for not wearing a mask. However, no complaint was received against the head constable till Thursday evening, police said.

Additional deputy commissioner of police (west) Sameer Sharma said a case of assault has been registered. During preliminary probe, it was found that the argument started over the head constable not wearing a mask. We are verifying allegations made by both sides, Sharma said.

SDM Delhi Cantonment Piyush Rohankar said the administration is waiting for the outcome of the police inquiry as it was a matter of law and order.
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Your numbers are horrible!

I was a resident physician in internal medicine seeing patients in primary care clinic. These words, from an attending physician, were meant as off-the-cuff feedback, and their impact surprised me. I suddenly felt exhausted, sitting on a rolling chair surrounded by an audience of computers, unsure how to respond to this statement that simultaneously made me feel enraged and like a failure. How could one metric change my feelings of purpose to utter disillusionment? At that moment, I felt how little worth the system had assigned to the time I had spent gaining my patients trust, documenting and poring over electronic records at night, and playing phone tag with out-of-network specialist physicians.

That evening, I texted a colleague and friend, My soul is dead  just feel like Im not doing anything right.

She immediately responded, How are you defining right?

How are we defining right? This is a question worth asking.

A back-office visit to any primary care practice is not complete without mention of the metrics. In the business world, metrics are measurable values that show the progress of a companys business goals. Good metrics mean more money. They fulfill a similar role in medicine. Both private insurance companies and government insurance programs (Medicare and Medicaid) are moving towards value-based systems in which health systems and clinics are reimbursed based upon their performance on core quality measures that emphasize chronic disease measurement and cancer screening parameters.

Although well-intended, front-line primary care physicians raise valid concerns with how these measures over-simplify a complex field. If I lower my patients blood pressure and they fall and break their hip, I still get paid, shares Dr. Andy Lazris, an internist in Maryland, But if their blood pressure is above the target, I fail the guideline.

Ideally, core measures would represent the values of patients, support primary care providers, and promote care that is valuable to patients, communities, and physicians. Unfortunately, pairing metrics with payment can create an environment where physicians and clinics are led to approach primary care as a checklist of measures rather than focusing on relationship-building and responding to the concerns of patients and the local community. The administrative and financial burden of these measures has been found to weigh heaviest on primary care.

My experience as a medical trainee is not isolated. Most people who pursue medicine are independent, purpose-driven, and want to feel like they are caring for others effectively. Despite considerable evidence that primary care has broadly beneficial health outcomes for our communities, we have failed to make primary care a desirable professional option. The job of managing health and advocating for appropriate health care within a gargantuan and often callous system is inherently difficult. Human connection and relationship-building are essential to be effective yet systemically under-valued monetarily. The workload and administrative burden are high, and the pay and prestige are low. It is no surprise that few American medical trainees want to pursue careers in primary care.

One example of how we can shift our focus to measuring what matters in health care comes from the Lown Institute, a think-tank advocating in pursuit of a just and caring healthcare system. The Institute recently released the Lown Institute Hospitals Index, which grades hospitals not only on patient outcomes, but also by untraditional parameters, such as pay equity, community benefit, and avoidance of overuse. Underlying this effort is the acknowledgment that hospital systems increasingly wield immense power within their communities. Sixteen U.S. states count hospital systems as their largest employers. Like anything else, these rankings are imperfect, but they do encourage a new paradigm of accountability for health systems. They are shifting how we define right.

We should measure hospitals commitment to primary care that is valuable to their patients and local communities. Primary care helps counteract income-based disparities in health, but primary care visits generate far less revenue for a hospital system than elective surgeries or specialist procedures. Consequently, a hospital systems support of their primary care physicians and clinics speaks to their dedication to serving their patients and communities over making profit.

How do we identify the systems that are doing well? Primary care physicians are notoriously underpaid relative to their specialist colleagues. Lets reward systems that have a more equitable pay balance between generalists and specialists. Documentation is also a known driver of physician burnout, which is leading many primary care physicians to consider leaving the field. We should reward hospital systems which are minimizing documentation burden for their primary care physicians.

How are we defining right in primary care? The collection and reporting of core quality measures have shown incredible power to mold our healthcare system. The overall intent is good, but in reality, primary care as a checklist of measures is unsatisfying for patients and physicians both. It also underestimates and undervalues the complexity of practicing primary care, worsening the forces that drive trainees away from the field.

We need measures that prioritize patient care, take complexity into account, and lead to better recruitment and retention of motivated primary care physicians. This is best achieved by encouraging the most valuable aspects of primary care: relationship-building and time caring for patients.

As teachers, we discourage our trainees from acting solely on numbersaberrant lab values only find meaning in the context of our patients contexts and values. We define right as caring for patients intelligently, holistically, and kindly, yet we have shackled patient care to incentive and payment systems that are uncoupled from this definition of right. In the pursuit of easily defined metrics, our systems ignore context. This makes kind, careful primary care exhausting and unappealing to practice. Our patients, colleagues, and field are suffering.

I am not the first, and will not be last, to call for a new era of American medicine that rejects greed, encourages trust, and is patient-centered.

Michelle-Linh Nguyen is an internal medicine physician and can be reached on Twitter @mtlnmd.

Image credit: Shutterstock.com
Brooklyn Beckham is in hot water after his alarming snap with fiancee Nicola Peltz.

Peltz usually updates her 1.9 million followers with a sweet photo of her and the British model while on their vacation or just casually lounging around.

Unfortunately, the couple received a wave of backlash from social media after posting a playful snap.

Troubling Photo

In a series of posts, the young lovers appeared to be having a fancy outdoor dinner complete with red wine.

Beckham was rocking a laid-back outfit with his gray shirt, while the blonde beauty was seen wearing a black fitted string top that she capped off with blue eyeshadow and messy hair.

"tb to prom night," Peltz wrote, to which Brooklyn replied: "My amazing girl."



"Lost Transmission" actress Bria Vinaite responded to the pair's photo as she called them "cuties," while "The Sweetest Thing" star Selma Blair replied with a heart emoji.

However, Nicola's IG post sent a negative message to fans. After all, the eldest son of Victoria and David Beckham was holding Peltz's neck while showing off his tattooed arms.

With this, fans flocked to the comment section to criticize the 21-year-old aspiring photographer over the disturbing photo.

"Why he choking though," one user wrote, while another one implied that the couple was into some erotic sex act, "Y'all into some freaky shit."

On the other hand, one individual called the photo "odd" and pointed out that Brooklyn also did the bizarre-looking pose to his previous girlfriends.

"Every gf he has had, there are photos of him holding them round the neck. Even when he puts his arm around them it's really tight looks like a headlock. Really odd the way he's never pictured with any male friends just his gfs who he falls in love within 2mins & then holds them by the throats etc."

However, fans defended the young couple by mentioning that they were "obsessed" with the duo. One supporter also wrote: "beautiful couple."

Another user also wished them success for their soon-to-be wedding: "I wish you both the best in your marriage and future together."

Brooklyn, Nicola Engaged

Back in July, Brooklyn Beckham took to Instagram to reveal his engagement to "The Last Airbender" actress after less than a year of dating.

He described himself as the "luckiest man" after she said "yes" to him.

"Two weeks ago, I asked my soulmate to marry me, and she said yes. I am the luckiest man in the world. I promise to be the best husband and the best daddy one daym" Brooklyn wrote.

Peltz also made the announcement on her Instagram, stating that she "can't wait" to be with him forever.

"You've made me the luckiest girl in the world. I can't wait to spend the rest of my life by your side. Your love is the most precious gift," Peltz wrote while thanking Brooklyn's baby sister, Harper, for taking the pic.

In the photo, both Beckham and Peltz looked all glammed up for the engagement announcement. The budding photographer wore a navy suit, while the actress stunned her fans with a yellow ruffled dress as she placed her hand in her fiance's face -- showing off her massive rock.

READ MORE: Camila Cabello Shuts Down Split Rumors With Sweet Message for Shawn Mendes
Moreover, the Russian delegate said he intends to publish the tapes  without asking anyone's permission.

Special Representative of the OSCE Chairman-in-Office Heidi Grau on Wednesday, September 30, was reportedly forced to interrupt the meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group on Donbas settlement (Ukraine, Russia, OSCE) due to the Russians conducting unauthorized audio and video recording of talks that are deemed to be confidential.

That's according to the reports by the Ukrainian Pravda online outlet and LIGA.net, both citing own sources close to negotiations.

Read alsoZelensky names next steps required toward Donbas settlementMoreover, the chief of the Russian delegation said he intends to publish the tapes  without asking anyone's permission.

The OSCE representative suggested taking a break and holding a separate meeting to agree on a code of conduct and information policy that all participants should adhere to.

Ukraine supported the OSCE position, stressing the unacceptability of actions contradicting the agreements and international negotiation practices.

The Ukrainian side thanked Heidi Grau for her stance and insisted on the OSCE's exclusive mandate and right to moderate the talks.

TCG on Donbas settlement: Other reports
Narcotic agents have confiscated a massive cocaine shipment inside a shipping container while conducting a routine search at a port in the Dominican Republic.

The National Directorate of Drug Control said the drug bust took place Wednesday night at the Multimodal Caucedo Port in Boca Chica.

A team of drug enforcement agents and port security inspectors were looking into 10 containers which were slated to be shipped to Europe.

The agency said they found cocaine split into 673 plastic wrapped packages hidden among a delivery of cocoa.

The confiscated drugs, which had an estimated weight of 673 kilos, have a United States street value of $32.3 million.

The Dominican Republic's National Directorate of Drug Control announced the seizure of 673 bundles of cocaine that were found inside a container filled with cocoa Wednesday at the Multimodal Caucedo Port in Boca Chica. The container was allegedly bound for Europe

An agent from the Dominican Republic's National Directorate of Drug Control loads an agency truck with cocaine seized Wednesday night. Authorities have interviewed at least 15 people of interest, including South American nationals

National Directorate of Drug Control spokesman Carlos Devers said Thursday that authorities were interviewing at least 15 people of interest, including South American nationals.

No arrests had been made as of Thursday.

'So far there is good information that will lead to the arrest of members of this network of international drug trafficking that try to use our territory for their illegal activities to be arrested and brought to justice,' the agency said in a press release.

A member of the National Directorate of Drug Control loads a truck with the cocaine that was seized from a container at a port in Boca Chica, Dominican Republic

In March, authorities at an airport in Zaventem, Belgium, seized 350 kilos of cocaine hidden in several suitcases after a plane had arrived from the Dominican Republic. The shipment had a value of $16.8 million.

According to the U.S. Department of States Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs [INL], the Dominican Republic also serves as the 'ideal transshipment point for drugs from South America to the United States.'

'Resource constraints, endemic corruption, and lack of political will have handicapped the Dominican Republic,' the INL indicated. 'Inadequately trained Dominican law enforcement personnel hinder its ability to guarantee the safety of citizens.'
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.




Q: Two people in our five-person office have tested positive for the novel coronavirus. Our boss found out over the weekend, but didn't tell us until we found out from one of the infected workers and confronted the boss. We have our own offices, we wear masks, and we eat in our own spaces. We share a copy room and workrooms. We are angry at the boss for not telling us about the positive cases and not letting us work from home. Isn't our employer required to notify us when someone at work tests positive for the coronavirus?

A: Employers in this pandemic have to walk a fine line between keeping employees informed and causing needless anxiety, according to Susan Wiltsie, an employment law partner with Hunton Andrews Kurth who specializes in OSHA compliance. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines recommend notifying individuals who have had "close contact" with a coronavirus-positive person - defined as being within six feet for at least 15 minutes while the person was considered contagious (within 48 hours before symptom onset or, if no symptoms occur, 48 hours before the test was taken).

Under those guidelines, an infected person who has had no recent contact or interactions with co-workers may not present a risk that requires notification, and notifying the entire workforce in that case may cause more stress than benefit, Wiltsie notes.

That said, your anger is understandable, especially if you have or live with someone who has a high-risk medical condition. Anecdotal reports from people who have fallen ill despite taking thorough precautions, combined with ever-changing information on how the virus spreads, plus variables outside our personal control such as others' behavior and environmental sanitation - and, most troubling, reports of possible political interference with our most trusted source of public health information, the CDC itself - make it reasonable to want to take extra precautions.

Employers have a duty to provide a safe workplace. While reasonable minds may differ on the exact measures, an employer that fails to show it is making every reasonable effort to keep workers safe is going to face internal turmoil and possibly legal repercussions. Several meatpacking plants have been fined recently over lax coronavirus prevention and notification measures. OSHA itself is "receiving an astounding number of complaints" about employers, says Wiltsie, and is facing criticism and lawsuits arising from its enforcement of worker safety laws during the pandemic.

So even though employers might be inclined to hold off on announcing covid-19 breakouts to avoid causing panic or stigmatizing infected workers, a certain amount of transparency might be in order to retain their workers' trust. Wiltsie recommends the following approach when employers learn of a case of covid-19 among their workers:

1 - Perform contact tracing to determine who in the workplace may have come into direct contact with the infected person.

2 - Privately contact those individuals at risk, without disclosing the identity of the infected person (confidentiality is required by the Americans With Disabilities Act).

3 - Make a general announcement to the rest of the workforce that a case of novel coronavirus has been confirmed, that people believed to be at risk of exposure have been notified, and that anyone who has not already been personally contacted is not believed to be at risk.

That approach, according to Wiltsie, "threads the needle so that you don't have unnecessary stress on people who are not at risk."

And, of course, time is of the essence, before the virus - and the news about it - has a chance to spread.

Pro tip: If you have a medical condition and are concerned about coronavirus exposure at work, consider making a doctor-endorsed plea under the ADA for additional protections, such as remote work or an isolated workspace. If your employer is willfully refusing to comply with state mandates on covid-19 protection, consider contacting your attorney general's office or public health department. Also, retaliating against workers who raise safety concerns is illegal.
Foreign Affairs Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne has ordered an investigation into allegations Canadian technology is being used in drones that are targeting Armenians in the ongoing Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict in Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh), CTV News reported.

"Canada is deeply concerned by reports of large scale military action along the line of contact in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone, and we call for the immediate end of hostilities, respect for the ceasefire agreement, and the protection of civilians," said Michel Cimpaye, a spokesperson from Global Affairs Canada, in a statement emailed to CTVNews.ca.

His comments come in the wake of allegations from Canada's Armenian community that a Canadian-made sensor is being used in Turkish-manufactured drones that they say have been deployed in the ongoing Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict.

Sevag Belian, executive director of the Armenian National Committee of Canada, told CTVNews.ca that there's "overwhelming evidence" in Turkish and Azerbaijani media that these drones are being used "to specifically find [and] target both military targets and civilian targets."

The Canadian peace research institute Project Ploughshares recently published an extensive report on this issue. It says it gathered evidence that "strongly indicates the Province of Ontarios L3Harris Wescam sensors have been mounted on Turkey's unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)better known as droneswhich the report claims "have been used extensively by Turkey in its recent military activities."

CTV News has reached out to the company for comment, but has not received a response.

"We are currently not satisfied with the way the government is responding to the situation," Belian said. "The situation is so dire that civilians are being targeted, innocent children, women and men are dying, because this technology is facilitating that."

He said the Canadian government must "immediately condemn" whats happening in the region and must "suspend all exemptions" that allow this sensor to be exported to Turkey.
BEIRUT (AP)  Lebanon and Israel have reached an agreement on a framework of indirect, U.S.-mediated talks over a longstanding disputed maritime border between the two countries, the parties announced Thursday.

The talks will be held at the headquarters of the U.N. peacekeeping force in the southern Lebanese border town of Naqoura under the banner of the United Nations. The talks are expected to begin on Oct. 14, according to U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs David Schenker, the top U.S. diplomat for the Middle East.

The agreement will allow both countries to begin discussions, which have the potential to yield greater stability, security, and prosperity for Lebanese and Israeli citizens alike, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement. He added that the agreement is the result of nearly three years of intense diplomatic engagement by U.S. officials.

An Israeli official said last week that a deal had been reached, but there was no immediate Lebanese or U.S. confirmation at the time. The official said Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz will lead the Israeli delegation.

We are hoping to start direct negotiations in the near future. Our presumptive goal is to arrive at a peaceful resolution on the matter of the Exclusive Economic Zone bordering between Israel and Lebanon in a way that benefits both neighboring nations," Steinitz said in a statement.

Israel and Lebanon have no diplomatic relations and are technically in a state of war. They each claim about 860 square kilometers (330 square miles) of the Mediterranean Sea as within their own exclusive economic zones.

Indirect talks mean that Lebanese army negotiators will not be speaking directly to members of the Israeli delegation but through U.N. and U.S. officials.

Schenker said he will lead the U.S. mediation team for at least the first round. He would not specify exactly who would be representing the Israelis or the Lebanese adding that the talks are strictly about maritime issues and delineating a border.

Story continues

The U.N. peacekeeping force in southern Lebanon, known as UNIFIL, welcomed the agreement saying it stands ready to extend to the parties all the support at its disposal and facilitate efforts towards a resolution.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also welcomed the announcement of the agreement to launch talks, U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said.

The United Nations, through its representatives, will remain fully committed to supporting the process as requested by the parties and within its capacity and mandate, Dujarric said.

The United States has been mediating between Lebanon and Israel since 2010 until a breakthrough was reached in July on the framework for the indirect talks, according to Lebanons Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, who announced the deal Thursday.

He said the U.S. mediation stalled but it received a push in March last year during a visit to Beirut by Pompeo during which he discussed the dispute with Lebanese officials.

Lebanon's President Michel Aoun welcomed the agreement saying he hopes "that the American side will continue its role as a fair mediator. Aoun said he will be closely supervising the talks starting with the formation of the team and throughout the negotiations.

Lebanon and Israel hold monthly tripartite indirect meetings in Naqoura to discuss violations along their border. The countries also held indirect negotiations in the 1990s when Arab states and Israel were working on reaching peace agreements. Although the Palestinians and Jordan signed agreements with Israel, Lebanon and Syria did not.

The agreement on the framework comes as Lebanon is going through its worst economic and financial crisis in decades. Beirut is hoping that oil and natural gas discoveries in its territorial waters will help it pay back its massive debt.

Lebanon began offshore drilling earlier this year and is expected to start drilling for gas in the disputed area with Israel before in the coming months.

Berri, the parliament speaker, said the gas discoveries on the Israeli side of the Mediterranean prove that there are reserves and God willing this will help us pay our debt. Lebanon has one of the highest debt ratios in the world standing at about 170% of its GDP.

Three of Lebanon's 10 offshore blocks are along the disputed maritime border with Israel.

The Trump administration is likely to celebrate the agreement as another diplomatic breakthrough in the Middle East, following recent agreements in which the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain  Gulf countries that have never gone to war with Israel  agreed to recognize it and establish diplomatic relations.

Schenker, the U.S. diplomat, said the talks have nothing to do with the establishment of diplomatic relations or normalization between Lebanon and Israel. He added that "they will hopefully come to a resolution that will allow both sides to benefit from the resources there.

Israel invaded Lebanon twice during the countrys 1975-1990 civil war to battle Palestinian militants who had launched cross-border attacks, and it occupied a strip of territory in southern Lebanon until 2000.

In 2006, Israel and Lebanon's militant Hezbollah group fought a 34-day to a draw and the border has been relatively calm since despite some minor skirmishes.

___

Federman reported from Jerusalem. Associated Press writer Matthew Lee contributed to this report from Washington.
Whos got the biggest IaaS market share in NZ?

Kiwi IaaS (infrastructure as a service) providers are holding their own against the big public cloud providers, according to IDC. Senior analyst Prabhitha Dcruz says while global hyperscalers often account for 70% to 80% of the IaaS market share across countries in Asia-Pacific excluding China and Japan. But in New Zealand, its a different story.

Local vendors such as Spark and Datacom together account for 43% of the overall NZ IaaS market share. From a public cloud IaaS perspective, Amazon Web Services has the largest market share of 23%, followed by Microsoft at 19%. Late entrant Google continues to make progress but has just 1% market share in 2019, Dcruz says.

[ Keep up on the latest thought leadership, insights, how-to, and analysis on IT through Computerworlds newsletters. ]

Fry Up checked in for an update on the local IaaS market following the announcement by AWS this week that it has established a new edge location in New Zealand. So what is it and how does it compare to Microsofts plans to establish a data region on these shores?

AWSs announcement of the launch of CloudFront in New Zealand is a content delivery network service (CDN). With this service, New Zealand AWS customers will be able use this edge location to access a locally cached copy of data that is stored in other geographies, Dcruz explains. With the establishment of a Microsofts New Zealand Azure region, the majority of the Azure services will be locally hosted. Azure NZ customers will be able to store and access data and run applications on their data locally.

Incremental 5G

5G is on its way, town by town, city by city. Spark is set to launch in Auckland this month. Its a big region, so will they be covering all of it? We did ask and were told the details are TBA.

Spark has also relocated its 5G experience from a lab for enterprise customers (which saw 3,500 through its doors) to an Americas Cup experience for the kids. Prior to opening the 5G race zone to the public this week, it showed the media through.

Spark lead for technology evolution Renee Mateparae began the tour with a couple of fun facts, including that the rollout of 5G in New Zealand could add between $5.7 billion and $8.9 billion per year to the economy over the next ten years (per a NERA Economic Consulting report done for Spark which has not been released publicly).

The 5G race zone is a Te Papa-like experience with hands-on activities such digitally designing a boat using Huawei tablets, or steering a boat on an AC75 simulator. The latter, we were assured, is being used by Team New Zealand crew for practice, and sure enough there were a couple of sailors in TNZ uniforms wandering around. Even without their actual presence, its possible to get a photo with anyone in the team in the form of a virtual selfie, which uses AR technology. Given all that, Fry Up took a pic of the Nokia 5G modem.

Sarah Putt/IDG Sparks 5G network uses Nokias Fastmile 5G devices, shown here at the carriers 5G experience exhibit in Septeber 2020.

So whats the 5G part of the 5g experience? A wall of devices streaming content over a 5G network set up specifically for the exhibit.

Huawei is supplying the devices and Nokia the 5G connectivity via a private network in the race zone. As for the 5G network being rolled out across the country, Spark is taking a multi-vendor approach to give us the broadest possible access to emerging advances in 5G RAN [radio access network] technology, and to avoid over-reliance on any single equipment supplier, a spokesperson says. We have already obtained TICSA [Telecommunications Interception Capability and Security Act 2013] approval to use Nokia 5G RAN equipment in our current rollout, and it is progressing well.

Seasoned telco watchers will recall that Spark was keen on Huawei, but the New Zealand government had other ideas. But it is interesting that the Chinese supplier is being kept in the loop. Today, it is supplying tablets for an exhibit; tomorrow, it could be so much more.

Meanwhile Vodafone (also partnering with Nokia) says it too is supporting an Americas Cup team, Team UK, with their connectivity needs. Not quite to the same degreethere are no Vodafone sensors on the boat sending real-time data back to base or plans to open an exhibitionor anything other than the connectivity.

It can be tough keeping track, so here are the existing and planned 5G deployments announced by the mobile network owners to date.

Spark: For fixed-broadband use only (not for mobiles), parts of Alexandra, Clyde, Hokitika, Tokapo, Twizel, and Westport, and for both fixed-broadband and mobile use in parts of Palmerston North, with parts of Auckland planned.

For fixed-broadband use only (not for mobiles), parts of Alexandra, Clyde, Hokitika, Tokapo, Twizel, and Westport, and for both fixed-broadband and mobile use in parts of Palmerston North, with parts of Auckland planned. Vodafone: For mobiles, central business districts, airports, malls, and stadiums in Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown, and Wellington.

For mobiles, central business districts, airports, malls, and stadiums in Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown, and Wellington. 2degrees: None, though the company says 5G is on its future roadmap.

Police sign up to Algorithm Charter

Like a snowball rolling down a hill, each time the Algorithm Charter collects new signees it grows larger, becomes more formidable, and is therefore less likely to melt away into insignificance. The charter, introduced in July 2020, commits participating government agencies developing and using algorithms to strike a balance between privacy and transparency, prevent unintended bias, and reflect the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi.

The latest signatory is the New Zealand police, which made the announcement as part of a new policy on emergent technologiesdefined as everything from creating a chatbot to upgrading CCTV capability.

The police have come under fire this year for experimenting with new technology, such as facial recognition, without telling the public. Turns out they didnt tell their senior officers either, hence new instructions to the rank and file thinking about a tech initiative. The policy is six pages long, but it really boils down to five words: talk to your manager first.

Greens actual tech policy

The Greens were already ahead when it came to tech policy, in the sense that they actually have one, if vague. National was the first party to release a dedicated, specific tech policy, and yesterday the Greens announced their own specific Hi Tech Economy policy, which is part of their Economy Plan and supports the partys priority areas: housing, green energy, poverty, farming, and nature.

You can read the list of initiatives on the Greens website, with the main points summarised here:
Despite the current crisis facing the global aviation industry, its commitment to pursuing sustainability remains strong, particularly as the sector starts to recover.

Speaking at the Global Sustainable Aviation Forum, industry leaders reiterated that long-term climate action should be a priority alongside economic recovery in the coming years.

Executive Director of the cross-industry Air Transport Action Group, Michael Gill said: Air transport is in the midst of the deepest shock in its history. We expect a reduction of up to 4.8 million jobs in the sector by the end of the year and a massive hit to our ability to connect the world. However, as we plan for the recovery of air connectivity, we also must prioritise our environmental progress.

Our sector has a long-term climate change goal to cut CO2 emissions in half by 2050. With the right help from governments, the energy sector and technologists, we expect that global aviation will be able to hit net zero emissions a decade or so later. Some parts of the world will be able to meet this point earlier and a number of individual companies have already set goals along these lines. To achieve this will require a transition in our energy source from fossil fuel to sustainable aviation fuel, the acceleration of research and development of electric, hybrid and potentially hydrogen aircraft. It will also require a commitment to collaboration going even beyond our current levels. We have the next decade to set the scene for sustainable global connectivity for the next 30-40 years.

Speaking about the need to focus on sustainability as part of the industrys long-term recovery from Covid-19, the Director General of Airports Council International, Luis Felipe de Oliveira, said: The recovery of the aviation industry will be a key driver of the global economic recovery. To ensure that aviation can continue to provide the economic and social benefits, it is crucial that we pursue a green recovery and lay the foundation for a prosperous and sustainable industry for the long term. Airports are central to the interconnected and interdependent aviation ecosystem. Airports and their partners in the aviation industry need the support of appropriate regulation and government policies to facilitate a green recovery and push for real change.

Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation Director General Simon Hocquard said: Meeting our ambitious sustainability goals continues to be of paramount importance and will only happen if everyone in the aviation system plays their part. From implementing new operational procedures to adopting the latest technologies, the ATM industry has an important role to play in improving the efficiency of aviation in the near term, before new electric aircraft technologies or zero carbon fuels come on stream.

Alexandre de Juniac, Director General and CEO of the International Air Transport Association, said: Covid-19 has devastated the aviation industry. But we are working hard to re-connect the world safely and sustainably. Were committed to pushing ourselves, our partners, and governments to achieve our carbon targets in a green recovery. But this is not the time for more environmental taxes that punish people for reconnecting with family or who contribute to economic recovery with business travel. For aviation, the keys to combatting climate change remain investments in carbon offsetting, sustainable fuels, and radical green technologies.

Chair of the International Coordinating Council of Aerospace Industries Associations, Eric Fanning, said: Manufacturers invest billions of dollars a year to make the next generation of airplanes even more fuel efficient, but disruption from Covid-19 will make it difficult to maintain this level of investment in research and development. Moving forward, government and industry leaders must find new ways to collaborate on funding and developing innovative technologies that will address climate change." -- Tradearabia News Service
Research by an international team of scientists found that the steady, centuries-long increase in insect invasions globally is likely to continue. Using a new modelling approach to simulate non-native insect species numbers on continents for different taxonomic groups based on observed long-term historic trends, scientists established that biological invasions will increase by 36 percent between 2005 and 2050.

Modeling suggests that Europe is likely to experience the strongest biological invasions, followed by Asia, North America and South America.

The study delivers a first baseline for the assessment of future developments of biological invasions, information that will support decision-making related to containing the spread of alien species. Andrew Liebhold, a USDA Forest Service research entomologist based in West Virginia and the study's only North American co-author, describes the research as an important tool in allowing a shift from a reactionary stance to a proactive stance in defending against biological invasion.

"For centuries, the element of surprise has worked in favor of invasive pests," Liebhold said. "Because we were not anticipating these insects, and not monitoring for them, many have been well established and causing damage by the time we did find them. This research gives nations the opportunity to play offense instead of defense by identifying where invasions are likely and what species are most likely to invade."

###

The study, "Projecting the continental accumulation of alien species through to 2050," was published this week in the journal Global Change Biology. In addition to Liebhold, the research team included lead author Hanno Seebens of Senckenberg of the Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre in Germany and scientists from Germany, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Portugal, South Africa, Austria, Italy, New Zealand, China, and the Czech Republic. The study is available through the Northern Research Station at: https://www.nrs.fs.fed.us/pubs/61296
The other eight members would be citizens appointed by a panel of five retired circuit court judges. The panel of judges would be appointed from a list created by the Supreme Court of Virginia, with four chosen by both parties in the General Assembly and the fifth chosen by the judges themselves.
(New technology scans Australian driving licenses on any smartphone, reducing COVID-19 record-keeping to seconds, and removing the chance to enter fake data)

?Hotels, pubs, and restaurants across Australia are pulling back punters, but losing time to typing. Track and trace regulations require establishments to register information on each guest, causing delays for many patrons, while others are deliberately falsifying their data.

Tackling these issues, Austrian technology firm Anyline has launched software to scan Australian driving licenses and passports on any smartphone. This technology give hospitality personnel a quick and contactless way to gather the data needed from each guest on entry. In contrast to QR code systems, guests do not need to type in their information themselves, meaning incorrect data cannot be entered.

"The hospitality industry is caught between a rock and a hard place: fighting every day to protect jobs and welcome back guests while doing all in their power to ensure safety," said Anyline CEO Lukas Kinigadner. "But when the staff has a quick and contactless way to register each guest with their own phone, it's possible to cut the queues, stop anyone entering fake data and ensure the best records are kept for contact tracing".

The company, founded in 2013, is noted for offering its technology for free to emergency and humanitarian services as the COVID-19 pandemic took hold, and is currently used by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) for aid distribution. Their technology has also been integrated into the LEAD Horizon COVID-19 home test kits which are sold widely in Austria, delivering results within 24 hours.

(ENDS)

About Anyline

Anyline has established itself as a market leader in mobile text recognition. Using the newest and most innovative artificial intelligence approaches, Anyline enables any mobile device to process written characters in real-time, even when offline. It's not only more accurate than manual data entry but also works 20 times faster.

Anyline is the trusted choice for ID scanning for leading companies and national governments and is used by over 100,000 police officers around the world in their daily work. In Austria, it has also been integrated into a 'Digital Office' app which can be used by every Austrian resident to complete municipal tasks such as abode registrations.

The same technology will also soon be integrated to scan new 'E-Vaccination Passports', which will vastly improve the process of recording vaccinations. With the most recent Anyline release, verification for ID's in the EU, North America, and Australia are already in active use with extended coverage planned steadily over the coming months.

With over 300 active business clients producing more than 1 million mobile scans every day, it is clear that the future of data collection is automation and we are proud to be leading the global change.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201001005443/en/

Contacts:

Anyline GmbH

Michael Wilkinson

Head of Public Relations

+43 6704046048

michael.wilkinson@anyline.com
- Technological advancements and innovations in the manufacturing process and improved hygiene infrastructure at public places and homes drive the growth of the global hand wash station market.

PORTLAND, Ore., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Hand Wash Station Market by Type (Single Sink and Multiple Sinks), Portability (Permanent and Portable), Material (Ceramics, Alloy, and Others) and End User (Community and Commercial): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021-2027." According to the report, the global hand wash station industry generated $919.4 million in 2019, and is projected to reach $1.48 billion by 2027, witnessing a CAGR of 4.4% from 2021 to 2027.

Prime determinants of growth

Technological advancements and innovations in the manufacturing process and improved hygiene infrastructure at public places and homes drive the growth of the global hand wash station market. However, expensive nature and advent of counterfeit brands hinder the market growth. On the other hand, aggressive promotion on social media channels and strategies such as product launch and business expansion present new opportunities in the coming years.

Request Sample Report at: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/7556

Covid-19 Scenario

There has been increase in installation activities at public places and residential areas with the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic to help people improve safety.

Governments, health organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), and NGOs have been spreading awareness through social media to utilize these stations. Thus, demand has increased significantly.

Health authorities have issued guidelines regarding the design and production of handwash stations to avoid cross-contamination and maintaining the distance between two users.

Innovators have been designing "no-touch" hand wash stations to eliminate the possibility of contamination through the touching surface and also conserve water in the process.

The single sink segment to maintain its lead position throughout the forecast period

Based on type, the single sink segment contributed to the highest market share in 2019, holding nearly two-thirds of the global hand wash station market, and is projected to maintain its lead position throughout the forecast period. This is due to its characteristics such as ease in installation and low cost along with outbreaks of respiratory infection-based diseases such as Covid-19 and H1N1. However, the multiple sink segment is projected to portray the highest CAGR of 5.1% from 2021 to 2027, owing to rapidly scaling up solutions for hand hygiene and minimization in risks of transmission.

The permanent segment to maintain its dominant share during the forecast period

Based on portability, the permanent segment accounted for around three-fourths of the global hand wash station market in 2019, and is expected to maintain its dominant share during the forecast period. This is due to increase in construction activities in developing nations, rise in concerns related to health & hygiene, and availability of raw materials in abundance. However, the portable segment is expected to witness the highest CAGR of 5.6% from 2021 to 2027, owing to less space needed to install and innovations in product designs.

North America to grow at the highest rate

Based on region, North America is expected to witness the largest CAGR of 5.9% from 2021 to 2027. This is attributed to improved lifestyle, rise in purchasing power, increase in health consciousness, and awareness of benefits provided by hand wash station products. However, Asia-Pacific contributed to the highest market share, accounting for more than one-third of the global hand wash station market in 2019, and is expected to continue to lead by 2027. This is due to rise in consumer awareness regarding airborne health infections along with increase in government initiatives.

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Major market players

 Acorn Engineering Company, Inc.

 Crown Verity Inc.

 Monsam Enterprises

 PolyJohn

 Mr. John

 TEAL Patents

 Belson Outdoors

 Transplumb Water Technologies

 JW Craft Portable Restrooms, Inc.

 Meritech Systems LLC

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Air Purifying Spray Market: Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021-2027

Home Decor Market: Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2020-2027

Portable Air Purifier Market: Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2020-2027

Hand Sanitizer Dispenser Market: Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021-2027

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Turkey and Poland have been removed from the UKs quarantine exemption list (Steve Parsons/PA)

Turkey, Poland and three Caribbean islands have been removed from the UKs quarantine exemption list, the Transport Secretary has said.

Grant Shapps announced on Thursday that travellers arriving from all five destinations after 4am on Saturday October 3 will have to self-isolate for 14 days.

Along with Turkey and Poland, the islands of Bonaire, St Eustatius and Saba have been removed from the Governments list of safe travel corridors.

TRAVEL CORRIDOR UPDATE: The latest data indicates we need to remove Turkey, Poland, and Bonaire, St Eustatius and Saba from the #TravelCorridor list this week.



This means if you arrive from these destinations from 4am Saturday 3 October, you will need to self-isolate.  Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP (@grantshapps) October 1, 2020

The seven-day rate of new coronavirus cases per 100,000 people in Poland is now at 25.9, increasing from 15.6 in the previous week.

Bonaire, St Eustatius and Saba also reported 142.4 new cases per 100,000, unchanged from 142.4 in the previous week.

Meanwhile, Turkeys rate has dropped to 12.9 cases, down from 14.2 in the week prior.

A seven-day rate of 20 new cases per 100,000 people is the threshold above which the UK Government considers triggering quarantine conditions.

The Department for Transport (DfT) said it removed Turkey as the countrys health ministry had defined the number of new Covid-19 cases in a different way to the definition used by international bodies such as the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The Joint Biosecurity Centres risk assessment for Turkey has since been updated to reflect the likely impact of this on the data for incidence and test positivity rates, the DfT said.

Despite Italys weekly rate increasing to 20.4 cases, up from 18.4, it was not mentioned in the announcement.

Figures have been calculated by the PA news agency, based on data collected by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.

Mr Shapps tweeted: The latest data indicates we need to remove Turkey, Poland, and Bonaire, St Eustatius and Saba from the #TravelCorridor list this week.

This means if you arrive from these destinations from 4am Saturday October 3, you will need to self-isolate.

You must self-isolate if you enter the UK from a non-exempt country  from tomorrow, were increasing the penalties for people who refuse to do so to a maximum of 10,000 for repeat offenders.

He added: Data from Poland shows that test positivity has nearly doubled increasing from 3.9% to 5.8% alongside a rapid increase in weekly cases, causing the Joint Biosecurity Centre to update their recommendation.

Expand Close Passengers arriving from Italy and Poland will have to self-isolate for 14 days (Aaron Chown/PA) PA / Facebook

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Whatsapp Passengers arriving from Italy and Poland will have to self-isolate for 14 days (Aaron Chown/PA)

Digital advertising analyst Sarita Parto, who lives in Hammersmith, west London, had been due to travel to Krakow in Poland on Thursday evening, but decided to cancel her trip following the announcement.

The 29-year-old Australian, who is on a two-year work visa in the UK, told the PA news agency: Straight away (after hearing the news) I felt my heart sink and I thought there goes another trip cancelled, and I did shed a tear.

Its not like anyone is telling me not to go, but Id feel a bit guilty if I was there having a good time, while people were getting sick and dying.

Im trying to put my heartbreak into perspective.

Ms Parto said it was her fifth trip to mainland Europe cancelled this year due to coronavirus.

Meanwhile, Tomasz Lis, who moved to the UK from Poland 23 years ago, said the new rules on quarantining when returning from his home country will cost him thousands of pounds.

The 43-year-old, from London, said his firm Bespoke Tour, a travel company offering tailored trips to Poland, will lose a very substantial amount of custom in what has already been a trying year.

We havent really had any serious bookings since March we managed a few during summer and now its all vanishing again, Mr Lis told PA.

Its been an impossible year already and the Government would do much better by checking temperature at the airports, for instance, and test people who may have it rather than introduce those absurd rules.

Mr Lis is also a concert pianist and had to cancel a performance in Poland on Sunday due to the new rules, meaning he will lose 3,000 and the cost of his flights.
Seagram Heiress Clare Bronfman Sentenced to More Than 6 Years for Role in NXIVM

Clare Bronfman, a billionaire heiress to the Seagrams liquor fortune, was sentenced Wednesday to a prison term of 6 years and 9 months for her role in the cult-like NXIVM group.

Bronfman is the daughter of the late Canadian billionaire, former Seagram chairman Edgar Bronfman Sr., and a member of NXIVMs executive board. She was immediately taken into custody and put behind bars following the sentencing. She was also fined $500,000.

The 41-year-old, who provided key financial support for NXIVM, pleaded guilty in April 2019 to harboring an illegal alien for unpaid labor. Bronfman also admitted to having committed fraud on behalf of disgraced NXIVM founder and leader Keith Raniere by using a deceased womans credit card. She agreed to forfeit $6 million.

The NXIVM group, founded in 1998, masqueraded as a self-help company that ran executive success program courses and other self-help curricula that claimed to give students the ability to achieve their personal and professional life goals by overcoming mental blocks. Since its founding, the group has seen at least 17,000 enrolled in its classes. Raniere has been convicted of turning women in the cult-like group into sex slaves.

Bronfman is the first to be sentenced among five of her NXIVM co-defendants, who were previously convicted on various charges and are now awaiting sentencing: Raniere, former Smallville TV actress Allison Mack, former bookkeeper Kathy Russell, NXIVM president Nancy Salzman, and her daughter, board member Lauren Salzman.

Seagrams liquor fortune heiress, Clare Bronfman, leaves Brooklyn Federal Court, in New York, on April 8, 2019. (Mark Lennihan/AP Photo)

Defendant Bronfman twisted our immigration system to serve a reprehensible agenda, and engaged in flagrant fraud to the detriment of her victims and in the service of a corrupt endeavor, Acting U.S. Attorney Seth D. DuCharme said in a statement. With todays sentence, she has been held accountable for her crimes.

The prison sentence of 6 years and 9 months exceeds the three years probation her defense team sought and the five years the government wanted for Bronfman, who had been under home confinement.

Her lawyers had argued she deserved leniency because she was not directly involved in the most disturbing allegations against NXIVM or Raniere. They also said that she has a pre-existing health condition that could make her more vulnerable in prison to the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus, also known as the novel coronavirus.

Bronfman Admits to Mistakes

The hearing in Brooklyn, New York, lasted more than three hours and featured emotional statements from several victims.

U.S. District Judge Nicholas Garaufis repeatedly scolded Bronfman for standing by Raniere and the upstate New York organization, even after the evidence showed that she became aware of his sex-trafficking scheme.

With that knowledge, she could have distanced herself from him, the judge said. Instead, she chose to double down on her support of Raniere.

Before hearing her sentence, she read a statement to the court where she said she was thankful for the prayers of her supporters. It doesnt mean I havent made mistakes because I have made mistakes, she also said.

In particular, between October 2015 and January 2018, Bronfman recruited people into NXIVM-affiliated organizations, and then obtained a visa or other immigration status for them based on false or fraudulent representations, the Justice Department announced on Wednesday.

The department noted that Bronfman had recruited one woman (Jane Doe 12) from Mexico to work for a fitness-related NXIVM-affiliated company, where documents submitted to secure a work visa for the woman said she was being hired as a management consultant with a salary of $3,600 per month. However, Bronfman only paid the woman $4,000 over more than a year. The court on Wednesday imposed $96,605 in restitution to be paid to Jane Doe 12.

Bronfman had long been affiliated with NXIVM, giving away tens of millions of dollars to bankroll Raniere and his programs of intense self-improvement classes. She also paid for lawyers to defend the group against a lawsuit brought by its critics.

Court documents also previously revealed Bronfman was part of an illegal campaign contribution scheme to exceed contribution limits to a 2008 presidential primary campaign for political influence.

Today, Clare Bronfman is the first of many to be sentenced for the crimes she committed in furtherance of NXIVMs objectives. While her fate in no way removes the trauma NXIVMs victims will likely continue to suffer, it does highlight the governments efforts to bring to justice all of those involved in a series of illegal acts carried out for the benefit of this organization, FBI Assistant Director-in-Charge Sweeney said in a statement.

She recently wrote to the judge telling him that NXIVM and Keith Raniere had changed her life for the better. She will now have more than six years behind bars to contemplate that sentiment, and decide once and for all if its as easy to accept as she once believed it to be.

Keith Raniere in an interview with his NXIVM subordinate, actress Allison Mack, of Smallville. (Keith Raniere Conversations/YouTube)

NXIVM leader Raniere was convicted in June 2019 on all seven charges brought against him, which include racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, possession of child pornography. He faces a possible sentence of life in prison scheduled for Oct. 27.

According to court filings (pdf), Raniere in 2015 created a secret society within the group called DOS, an acronym for dominus obsequious sororium in Latin, which roughly means master of the slave women. Raniere, the highest master of DOS, forced other members, who were all female, to have sex with him. Many of the members were branded with a cauterizing pen while naked and being filmed.

The Associated Press and Bowen Xiao contributed to this report.
SHOTLIST FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA, VEREINIGTE STAATEN27. SEPTEMBER 2020QUELLE: FLPDPIO/YOUTUBEEINSCHRANKUNGEN: KEIN WEITERVERKAUF / NO RESALENUR REDAKTIONELLE VERWENDUNG 1. Totale From 00:00 to 00:15, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: Its been a little wild because hes acting crazy and so I went outside to the backyard to let him, just, chill out. And hes just like going irate. And he came out of his office, cocked a gun, went back. And I was like, okay, this is, like, fucked up. So I went to the front yard. From 00:25 to 01:00, a police officer says: Hello, Brad? How are you doing sir? Hey, I got him on. Hey, Brad. How you doing? This is officer [inaudible] of the Fort Lauderdale Police Department. Are you okay? Are you okay in there? Okay. All right. Can you do us a favor? Can you walk out with no weapons? Can you come outside with no weapons please? Sir, can you just come? Step out of the house. Sir, just just do us a favor. We just want to check on you. I know, okay, that's perfectly fine. But just do us a favor and just come outside. From 01:10, an officer says: Hes refusing to come out. From 01:13, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: He went back inside, came back out of his office like, cocked his handgun and went back inside. A police officers says: Do you have a lot of guns in the house? The woman says: I think we have like four of five of them. From 01:27 to 01:30, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: He has a shotgun, he has a rifle, he has a Glock. From 01:42, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: I saw him open the blinds in the front yard, and then he closed then. And I heard what I thought was a gunshot. At 01:59, Brad Parscale is seen sitting outside his home, wearing a pair of shorts and a hat with no shirt on; he stands up, walks toward an officer who tells him to relax; another officer off screen tells Brad Parscale: Get on the ground, man. An officer tackles Brad Parscale, other officers then put him on his stomach and handcuff him as he says repeatedly: I didnt do anything. The officers then make Brad Parscale stand up. (WARNHINWEIS: SPRACHE)2. Totale From 00:00 to 00:15, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: Its been a little wild because hes acting crazy and so I went outside to the backyard to let him, just, chill out. And hes just like going irate. And he came out of his office, cocked a gun, went back. And I was like, okay, this is, like, fucked up. So I went to the front yard. From 00:25 to 01:00, a police officer says: Hello, Brad? How are you doing sir? Hey, I got him on. Hey, Brad. How you doing? This is officer [inaudible] of the Fort Lauderdale Police Department. Are you okay? Are you okay in there? Okay. All right. Can you do us a favor? Can you walk out with no weapons? Can you come outside with no weapons please? Sir, can you just come? Step out of the house. Sir, just just do us a favor. We just want to check on you. I know, okay, that's perfectly fine. But just do us a favor and just come outside. From 01:10, an officer says: Hes refusing to come out. From 01:13, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: He went back inside, came back out of his office like, cocked his handgun and went back inside. A police officers says: Do you have a lot of guns in the house? The woman says: I think we have like four of five of them. From 01:27 to 01:30, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: He has a shotgun, he has a rifle, he has a Glock. From 01:42, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: I saw him open the blinds in the front yard, and then he closed then. And I heard what I thought was a gunshot. At 01:59, Brad Parscale is seen sitting outside his home, wearing a pair of shorts and a hat with no shirt on; he stands up, walks toward an officer who tells him to relax; another officer off screen tells Brad Parscale: Get on the ground, man. An officer tackles Brad Parscale, other officers then put him on his stomach and handcuff him as he says repeatedly: I didnt do anything. The officers then make Brad Parscale stand up. (WARNHINWEIS: SPRACHE) ---------------------- 3.4. FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA, VEREINIGTE STAATEN27. SEPTEMBER 2020QUELLE: FLPDPIO/YOUTUBEEINSCHRANKUNGEN: KEIN WEITERVERKAUF / NO RESALENUR REDAKTIONELLE VERWENDUNG 5. Totale From 00:00 to 00:15, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: Its been a little wild because hes acting crazy and so I went outside to the backyard to let him, just, chill out. And hes just like going irate. And he came out of his office, cocked a gun, went back. And I was like, okay, this is, like, fucked up. So I went to the front yard. From 00:25 to 01:00, a police officer says: Hello, Brad? How are you doing sir? Hey, I got him on. Hey, Brad. How you doing? This is officer [inaudible] of the Fort Lauderdale Police Department. Are you okay? Are you okay in there? Okay. All right. Can you do us a favor? Can you walk out with no weapons? Can you come outside with no weapons please? Sir, can you just come? Step out of the house. Sir, just just do us a favor. We just want to check on you. I know, okay, that's perfectly fine. But just do us a favor and just come outside. From 01:10, an officer says: Hes refusing to come out. From 01:13, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: He went back inside, came back out of his office like, cocked his handgun and went back inside. A police officers says: Do you have a lot of guns in the house? The woman says: I think we have like four of five of them. From 01:27 to 01:30, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: He has a shotgun, he has a rifle, he has a Glock. From 01:42, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: I saw him open the blinds in the front yard, and then he closed then. And I heard what I thought was a gunshot. At 01:59, Brad Parscale is seen sitting outside his home, wearing a pair of shorts and a hat with no shirt on; he stands up, walks toward an officer who tells him to relax; another officer off screen tells Brad Parscale: Get on the ground, man. An officer tackles Brad Parscale, other officers then put him on his stomach and handcuff him as he says repeatedly: I didnt do anything. The officers then make Brad Parscale stand up. (WARNHINWEIS: SPRACHE)6. Totale From 00:00 to 00:15, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: Its been a little wild because hes acting crazy and so I went outside to the backyard to let him, just, chill out. And hes just like going irate. And he came out of his office, cocked a gun, went back. And I was like, okay, this is, like, fucked up. So I went to the front yard. From 00:25 to 01:00, a police officer says: Hello, Brad? How are you doing sir? Hey, I got him on. Hey, Brad. How you doing? This is officer [inaudible] of the Fort Lauderdale Police Department. Are you okay? Are you okay in there? Okay. All right. Can you do us a favor? Can you walk out with no weapons? Can you come outside with no weapons please? Sir, can you just come? Step out of the house. Sir, just just do us a favor. We just want to check on you. I know, okay, that's perfectly fine. But just do us a favor and just come outside. From 01:10, an officer says: Hes refusing to come out. From 01:13, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: He went back inside, came back out of his office like, cocked his handgun and went back inside. A police officers says: Do you have a lot of guns in the house? The woman says: I think we have like four of five of them. From 01:27 to 01:30, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: He has a shotgun, he has a rifle, he has a Glock. From 01:42, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: I saw him open the blinds in the front yard, and then he closed then. And I heard what I thought was a gunshot. At 01:59, Brad Parscale is seen sitting outside his home, wearing a pair of shorts and a hat with no shirt on; he stands up, walks toward an officer who tells him to relax; another officer off screen tells Brad Parscale: Get on the ground, man. An officer tackles Brad Parscale, other officers then put him on his stomach and handcuff him as he says repeatedly: I didnt do anything. The officers then make Brad Parscale stand up. (WARNHINWEIS: SPRACHE)7. Totale From 00:00 to 00:15, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: Its been a little wild because hes acting crazy and so I went outside to the backyard to let him, just, chill out. And hes just like going irate. And he came out of his office, cocked a gun, went back. And I was like, okay, this is, like, fucked up. So I went to the front yard. From 00:25 to 01:00, a police officer says: Hello, Brad? How are you doing sir? Hey, I got him on. Hey, Brad. How you doing? This is officer [inaudible] of the Fort Lauderdale Police Department. Are you okay? Are you okay in there? Okay. All right. Can you do us a favor? Can you walk out with no weapons? Can you come outside with no weapons please? Sir, can you just come? Step out of the house. Sir, just just do us a favor. We just want to check on you. I know, okay, that's perfectly fine. But just do us a favor and just come outside. From 01:10, an officer says: Hes refusing to come out. From 01:13, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: He went back inside, came back out of his office like, cocked his handgun and went back inside. A police officers says: Do you have a lot of guns in the house? The woman says: I think we have like four of five of them. From 01:27 to 01:30, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: He has a shotgun, he has a rifle, he has a Glock. From 01:42, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: I saw him open the blinds in the front yard, and then he closed then. And I heard what I thought was a gunshot. At 01:59, Brad Parscale is seen sitting outside his home, wearing a pair of shorts and a hat with no shirt on; he stands up, walks toward an officer who tells him to relax; another officer off screen tells Brad Parscale: Get on the ground, man. An officer tackles Brad Parscale, other officers then put him on his stomach and handcuff him as he says repeatedly: I didnt do anything. The officers then make Brad Parscale stand up. (WARNHINWEIS: SPRACHE)8. Totale From 00:00 to 00:15, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: Its been a little wild because hes acting crazy and so I went outside to the backyard to let him, just, chill out. And hes just like going irate. And he came out of his office, cocked a gun, went back. And I was like, okay, this is, like, fucked up. So I went to the front yard. From 00:25 to 01:00, a police officer says: Hello, Brad? How are you doing sir? Hey, I got him on. Hey, Brad. How you doing? This is officer [inaudible] of the Fort Lauderdale Police Department. Are you okay? Are you okay in there? Okay. All right. Can you do us a favor? Can you walk out with no weapons? Can you come outside with no weapons please? Sir, can you just come? Step out of the house. Sir, just just do us a favor. We just want to check on you. I know, okay, that's perfectly fine. But just do us a favor and just come outside. From 01:10, an officer says: Hes refusing to come out. From 01:13, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: He went back inside, came back out of his office like, cocked his handgun and went back inside. A police officers says: Do you have a lot of guns in the house? The woman says: I think we have like four of five of them. From 01:27 to 01:30, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: He has a shotgun, he has a rifle, he has a Glock. From 01:42, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: I saw him open the blinds in the front yard, and then he closed then. And I heard what I thought was a gunshot. At 01:59, Brad Parscale is seen sitting outside his home, wearing a pair of shorts and a hat with no shirt on; he stands up, walks toward an officer who tells him to relax; another officer off screen tells Brad Parscale: Get on the ground, man. An officer tackles Brad Parscale, other officers then put him on his stomach and handcuff him as he says repeatedly: I didnt do anything. The officers then make Brad Parscale stand up. (WARNHINWEIS: SPRACHE)9. Totale From 00:00 to 00:15, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: Its been a little wild because hes acting crazy and so I went outside to the backyard to let him, just, chill out. And hes just like going irate. And he came out of his office, cocked a gun, went back. And I was like, okay, this is, like, fucked up. So I went to the front yard. From 00:25 to 01:00, a police officer says: Hello, Brad? How are you doing sir? Hey, I got him on. Hey, Brad. How you doing? This is officer [inaudible] of the Fort Lauderdale Police Department. Are you okay? Are you okay in there? Okay. All right. Can you do us a favor? Can you walk out with no weapons? Can you come outside with no weapons please? Sir, can you just come? Step out of the house. Sir, just just do us a favor. We just want to check on you. I know, okay, that's perfectly fine. But just do us a favor and just come outside. From 01:10, an officer says: Hes refusing to come out. From 01:13, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: He went back inside, came back out of his office like, cocked his handgun and went back inside. A police officers says: Do you have a lot of guns in the house? The woman says: I think we have like four of five of them. From 01:27 to 01:30, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: He has a shotgun, he has a rifle, he has a Glock. From 01:42, a woman speaks to police officers outside the home of Brad Parscale: I saw him open the blinds in the front yard, and then he closed then. And I heard what I thought was a gunshot. At 01:59, Brad Parscale is seen sitting outside his home, wearing a pair of shorts and a hat with no shirt on; he stands up, walks toward an officer who tells him to relax; another officer off screen tells Brad Parscale: Get on the ground, man. An officer tackles Brad Parscale, other officers then put him on his stomach and handcuff him as he says repeatedly: I didnt do anything. The officers then make Brad Parscale stand up. (WARNHINWEIS: SPRACHE)
Yet another rape, yet another fit of resentment and yet another void of indifference. As a country, we are living in a loop. The loop which completes its cycle every few months after we wake up to a gut-wrenching and gruesome incidents of rapes and cold-blooded murders.

Going by the record that we, as a country, have set for ourselves and the trajectory we follow every time, the protests and the outrage are short-lived, often met with force by the hands of the authorities.

The protests that had spread like wildfire in the aftermath of the 2012 Delhi gangrape and murder case, were never-before-soon. The country had woken up to the injustice done to women, the inaction of the government and ever-so-righteous society's apathy. The case caught the attention of the international media and India was tagged among the most unsafe countries for women. National capital New Delhi was called the "rape capital of India."

On March 21, 2013, the rape law in the country was amended. The new tougher anti-rape law -- Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013 -- to punish sex crimes redefined rape and made punishments more stringent -- including death for repeat rape offenders.

Reuters

Despite the stricter laws, weak policing and lackadaisical investigation could not deter perpetrators from committing the crime. Rape is now the fourth most common crime against women in India, according to government statistics.

The law has failed to attain its primary objective, evident by the similar horrific rapes and murders of women.

In December 2019, a woman in Unnao, Uttar Pradesh was doused with gasoline and set ablaze by five men, including two she had accused of gangrape and who were out on bail. This happened when she was on her way to attend a court hearing in the case. She died at a hospital in New Delhi. Yet again, the country was outraged and demanded justice for the victim and soon peace was made with the fact that the ground reality will never change.

In late November in 2019, a 27-year-old veterinarian was gangraped and her body was burnt near Hyderabad. The four men accused of the ghastly crime were killed in an encounter by the police. The encounter drew massive praise from the public, fed up with the slow justice rate in the country. Quick justice was the demand. It is clear no one trusts the law and judicial proceedings any longer. Mob justice is seen as a quick remedy, while it seldom helps to control the crime.

Over the years, we have made peace with living in a loop of seeking justice. Unless we break it and work towards actively changing the "system", the change we need will never see the light of the day.
Photo: The Canadian Press In this three panel photograph; Green Party Leader Sonia Furstenau, from left to right, NDP Leader John Horgan and Liberal Leader Andrew Wilkinson wear face masks to curb the spread of COVID-19, during campaign stops. A provincial election will be held in British Columbia on October 24. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck

The NDP is promising to increase a British Columbia government student grant program up to $4,000 for eligible students to help them pay tuition, textbook and supply costs.

New Democrat Leader John Horgan says a re-elected NDP will also add 2,000 more technology spaces in post-secondary programs across B.C.

Horgan says the NDP will provide more details about its post-secondary education plans when it releases its election platform next week.

He says the grant program will be expanded to allow more middle-class and low-income students access to receive up to $4,000 each.

Liberal Leader Andrew Wilkinson is campaigning in Vancouver and says his party will release its election platform next week.

Green Leader Sonia Furstenau is expected to announce her party's long-term care policy today in Sidney.
(Natural News) A nationwide 911 outage occurred on Monday that we have since learned was caused by a massive Microsoft Office 365 outage.

The Bill Gates-founded Microsoft corporation apparently runs Americas emergency service lines these days, as callers in Washington, Minnesota, Arizona, Delaware and elsewhere where the software is used by local police departments were met with busy signals upon trying to call 911.

Many police departments tweeted that day that those in need of emergency help should call the local fire department or another government agency as an alternative.

As of 5 p.m., City phones and emails are experiencing intermittent outages related to a larger Microsoft 365 outage, tweeted the City of Redmond, Wash., one of the areas affected by the outage. We are hoping the issue is resolved shortly. Sorry for any inconvenience.

Panic quickly spread as police departments realized that they were not alone and that the entire country was basically disabled from accessing 911 emergency services for the day.

ATTENTION: The 911 lines are not operational nationwide, tweeted the Minneapolis Police Department, which was recently defunded in response to the death of George Floyd.

This is for phone calls and text messaging, the department added. If you need police, fire or emergency medical assistance in Minneapolis, please call a local number. We will advise when this issue is fixed.

In nearby Minnetonka, a Minneapolis suburb, the police department tweeted that 911 lines are out nationwide, warning that people in need of emergency help would have to call someone else.

Crystal, another Minneapolis suburb, urged residents to call the fire department instead, which it said will be staffed with crews to handle a potential influx of calls.

Microsoft claims no responsibility for nationwide 911 outage; FCC calls for investigation

Responding to the nationwide failure, a Microsoft spokesman told Fox News that the company saw no indication that the multi-state 911 outage was a result of yesterdays Azure service interruption, Azure being the name for Microsofts Cloud Computing Services.

The issue was mostly resolved as of Tuesday afternoon, reports indicate, though the precise cause of the outage, assuming Microsofts products had nothing to do with it, remains unknown.

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel wrote on Twitter that 911 is too important not to work, even for just one day and that an investigation is needed to get to the bottom of what happened.

The one system we need to work all the time is 911, she stated. The FCC needs to get to the bottom of this now and figure out what is going on.

While some departments only experienced a few minutes of interruption, others were down for many hours. And it was the City of Redmond, by the way, where Microsoft headquarters is located, that first suggested the outage was related to a larger Microsoft 365 outage.

Interestingly, Microsoft did admit to a massive outage, also on Monday, following an infrastructure chance that took down services including Office, Outlook, Teams, Power Platform, and Dynamics365.

An alternate cause of the 911 outage could be that Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) providers experienced an outage of their own that directly impacted the ability of police departments that use them to operate their emergency lines.

PSAPs are telephony systems where 911 (or 112) emergency calls are terminated before reaching the actual emergency service call centers, writes Catalin Cimpanu for Zero Day (ZDNet).

Theyre choke points in 911 traffic, which explains why multiple emergency services across different states had issues. According to reports on Twitter, a PSAP provider named Intrado was most likely behind the 911 outage [that day].

For more related news about the collapse of centralized infrastructure, be sure to check out Collapse.news.

Sources for this article include:

The-Sun.com

NaturalNews.com

FoxNews.com

ZDNet.com
Retired Gen. Stanley McChrystal endorsed the Democratic nominee on Thursday

The former Afghanistan commander was asked to resigned in 2010 when a report revealed that he mocked then-Vice President Joe Biden

'You have to believe that your commander and chief, at the end of the day, is someone that you can trust, and I can trust Joe Biden,' McChrystal said

At the same time George W. Bush's 2004 campaign manager also said he will not vote for President Donald Trump in November

Marc Racicot served as Montana's governor for two terms in the 1990s and as Republican National Committee chairman in 2002 and 2003

He cited character flaws in Trump when explaining how he will cast his ballot

'I will not be supporting Donald Trump for president, and I will not be voting for him,' Racicot said during a radio interview Tuesday

A former Army commander who stepped down in 2010 after mocking then-Vice President Joe Biden endorsed the Democratic nominee Thursday  at the same time George W. Bush's 2004 campaign manager also said he will not vote for President Donald Trump in November.

Retired General Stanley McChrystal told MSNBC's Joe Scarborough during 'Morning Joe' on Thursday that he will be voting for Biden despite his previous criticisms of him.

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'I think my willingness to endorse him now should signal to people that there was a respectful relationship then, and just how important I think it is to replicate that kind of relationship between senior military leaders now,' McChrystal said.

'We have to believe in our values. You have to believe that your commander and chief, at the end of the day, is someone that you can trust, and I can trust Joe Biden,' McChrystal said.

Click here to resize this module

McChrystal came under fire in 2010 after a Rolling Stone article quoted him as mocking Biden, among other top civilian officials.

Even though the general apologized to Biden, he was ultimately pushed to resign.

Retired Gen. Stanley McChrystal endorsed Joe Biden on Thursday. He told MSNBC's Joe Scarborough: 'We have to believe in our values. You have to believe that your commander and chief, at the end of the day, is someone that you can trust, and I can trust Joe Biden'

The endorsement comes despite the general stepping down in 2010 after he mocked then-Vice President Joe Biden

At the same time, George W. Bush's 2004 reelection campaign chairman Marc Racicot said he would not be voting for Donald Trump in November

'I worked most closely with President Obama and Vice President Biden when I commanded in Afghanistan, and I had policy differences at times,' McChrystal now reveals. 'But in every instance, they listened. In every instance, they took in my view.'

He continued: 'In every instance, I felt that they were trying to make the best decision based on all the information they had and based upon a bedrock of values.'

Marc Racicot, 72, who chaired George W. Bush's reelection campaign in 2004, said he will vote for Trump in November.

Racicot, who served as Montana's governor for two terms in the 1990s and as Republican National Committee chairman in 2002 and 2003, cited character flaws in President Trump when explaining how he will cast his ballot.

He made the statement during an interview Tuesday on Yellowstone Public Radio with Home Ground host Brian Kahn.

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'I regret that I will cause consternation, perhaps, in some corners, but even as a Republican, I will not be supporting Donald Trump for president, and I will not be voting for him,' Racicot said during an interview with Yellowstone Public Radio on Tuesday.

'But at the end, the content of a man's character or a woman's character to serve in that capacity is more important than any other issue that I have to consider as a matter of conscience,' he told 'Home Ground' host Brian Kahn.

Racicot clarified that he still has policy disagreements with Biden and did not explicitly say if he will vote for the Democrat.

While Racicot says he did not vote for Trump in 2016, it is unclear if he did cast his ballot for Democrat Hillary Clinton.

He also said he has 'even more doubts' now than he did in the 2016 election.

Both men coming out against Trump comes as Tuesday's first presidential debate in Cleveland, Ohio was deemed 'chaotic' and a 'dumpster fire' as a general consensus was reached that neither candidate came out looking good.
NSW and South Australia are set to be the first states to welcome New Zealand tourists as part of a travel bubble.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Thursday the arrangement will initially be only one-way, allowing Kiwis to fly across the Tasman.

'We'll be able to move on that very soon,' he told 5AA radio.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison (pictured) said NSW and South Australia are set to be the first states to welcome New Zealand tourists as part of a travel bubble

The arrangement will initially be only one-way, allowing Kiwis to fly across the Tasman (pictured, Sydney International Airport on September 29)

'New Zealanders being able to travel to Australia - that's good for Australian tourism.'

The prospect of Australians travelling to New Zealand is further away.

Mr Morrison said South Australia and NSW would be the first to benefit because they have already removed domestic borders.

'That would take a lot of pressure off at the airports for hotel quarantine, which frees up more places for Australians to come home,' he said.

The prime minister explained states insisting on quarantine for domestic travel would not be included in the bubble.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern (pictured) discussed the trans-Tasman bubble with Mr Morrison earlier in the week

'We can't have New Zealand tourists coming and taking up those quarantine places in those states,' he said.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern discussed the trans-Tasman bubble with Mr Morrison earlier in the week.

'There is a chance that we could have Australia simply open to New Zealand because of our status and where we are right now, which is pretty good,' she told AAP on Wednesday.
The Duchess of Cambridge has revealed that Prince George is currently 'learning about volcanoes' at school and even talked about her 'love of cuddles' during a call to one of the entrants from her Hold Still photograph project.

Kate, 38, who is now back at Kensington Palace, in London, after living at Anmer Hall in Norfolk, with Prince William, 38, and their three children following the COVID-19 outbreak, launched the digital exhibition for the National Portrait Gallery during lockdown.

Ceri Edwards, from South Wales, was one of the 100 finalists chosen as part of the project after submitting a sweet photograph of her daughter, Poppy, giving a big hug to her father, with the piece titled 'Be Safe Daddy X'.

The finalist recently received a private phone call from Kate, with the royal speaking about Prince George's current subject of volcanoes to the mother and revealing her 'love of cuddles' when speaking to youngster Poppy, according to Hello!.

The Duchess of Cambridge (pictured during a visit to a London Scouts group earlier this week) has revealed that Prince George is currently enjoying learning about volcanoes at school during a call to one of the entrants from her Hold Still photograph project

Prince George's (pictured left with Prince William and Prince Louis) interest in the natural world was apparent in recent photographs of the Cambridge family with Sir David Attenborough

'The Duchess was so down-to-earth and was so wonderful with Poppy,' Ceri told the publication following the chat.

'She asked Poppy about her favourite topic at school and put her at ease. They talked about how important cuddles are and how they both love to give them.

'We talked about Poppy and Prince George being in the same school year and their current school topics [Poppy's is Brazil and Beyond and George's is The Active World - Volcanoes].

Kate, who is a keen amateur photographer, also expressed her admiration for Ceri's moving black-and-white photograph.

Ceri explained how the royal thanked her for the photograph and said how it 'resonated with her and other judges' by showing the special bond between father and daughter.

Ceri Edwards, from South Wales, was one of the 100 finalists chosen as part of the project after submitting a sweet photograph of her daughter, Poppy, giving a big hug to her father, with the piece titled 'Be Safe Daddy X' (pictured)

Prince George, seven, and his sister Princess Charlotte, five, returned to Thomas's Battersea school in London this month after months of homeschooling.

Meanwhile, Prince George's interest in the natural world was apparent in recent photographs of the Cambridge family with naturalist Sir David Attenborough, 94.

The young royal was gifted a fossilised giant shark's tooth by the veteran broadcaster, after Sir David discovered Prince George was a 'massive fan'.

Prince George was photographed looking intrigued as he handled the fossilised tooth from an extinct Carcharocles megalodon - one of the most feared predators to have swum in the seas.

The giant shark tooth was found by Sir David during a family holiday to Malta in the late 1960s.

It was embedded in the island's soft yellow limestone, which was laid down during the Miocene period some 23million years ago.
New Delhi: Irked over the deaths of two women in Hathras and Balrampur districts, BSP chief Mayawati on Thursday (October 1) demanded that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath be replaced or the President's rule imposed in of Uttar Pradesh, raising questions over the law and order situation in the state.

Referring to the deaths of two women in Hathras and Balrampur regions of the state, the BSP chief said the incidents are reminiscent of the 2012 Nirbhaya gang rape and murder in Delhi.

Addressing media persons in Lucknow, Mayawati said, "In the wake of the law and order situation in the state and a flood of crimes against women, the Union government should replace Yogi Adityanath with some 'kaabil' (capable) person and if this is not possible, the president's rule should be imposed in the state."

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Mayawati said, "I want to say to Yogi Adityanath that you are born from the womb of a woman. You should consider sisters and daughters of others as your own. If you are unable to protect them, you should resign."

She said, "I want to tell the government that it would be better if Yogi Adityanath sits at his original place in Gorakhpur Math. If he does not like the Gorakhpur Math, he should be handed over the task of constructing the Ram temple in Ayodhya."

"In place of him (Adityanath), make a 'kaabil' (capable) man the chief minister who can give good law and order to people," the BSP chief said, adding "If the BJP high command cannot do this, then they should have a little mercy on the people of UP and improve the law and order situation by imposing the President's rule in the state."

Reacting to her statement, the state government spokesperson Siddharth Nath Singh said, "Mayawati ji you become the leader of Scheduled Castes but you forgot that during your tenure a thousand Dalits were killed; and today you are giving us a lecture."

Meanwhile, Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and around 150 of their party workers were briefly detained in Greater Noida today for alleged violation of prohibitory orders while walking towards Hathras to meet the rape victim's family.

Rahul Gandhi also fell down in the scuffle after police tried to stop him and his supporters from proceeding on the Yamuna Expressway near the Jewar toll plaza. Pictures of the incident were shared by the party.

The Gandhis were seeking to walk down from Greater Noida to Hathras after their vehicles were stopped by the police near Pari Chowk. After walking for some time, they were stopped by the police. The Congress had earlier claimed that the Gandhis were arrested by the police.

The police, however, said that the Gandhis were charged for alleged violation of prohibitory orders issued under CrPC section 144. They were reportedly charged with violation of the orders related to the Epidemic Diseases Act, imposed in view of the COVID-19 outbreak, and booked under IPC section 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by a public servant).

Notably, the Hathras woman was allegedly raped on September 14. After her condition deteriorated, she was referred to the Delhi's Safdarjung hospital where she breathed her last on Tuesday. She was cremated in the early hours of Wednesday, with her family alleging the local police forced them to conduct the last rites in the dead of night.

(With Agency Inputs)
Burma Myanmars Military Blames Karen National Union for Soldier Deaths

A Tatmadaw soldier on new the Myawaddy-Kawkareik road. / Kyaw Kha / The Irrawaddy

Naypyitaw  Myanmars Tatmadaw (military) has accused the Karen National Union (KNU) of being responsible for the deaths of four soldiers.

Three KNU fighters allegedly killed two troops at a Tatmadaw outpost on the old Myawaddy-Kawkareik road on August 29 and planted mines below their bodies. A captain and private from the medical corps who attended to them were killed in a mine explosion, according to Myanmars military.

The two were arrested by the Tatmadaw and [Karen State] Border Guard Force. We are investigating. There were three perpetrators and the third one is on the run, Myanmars military spokesman Major General Zaw Min Tun told The Irrawaddy.

The joint forces of the Tatmadaw and Karen Border Guard Force arrested two suspects on September 27, he added.

According to an initial investigation, we found the suspects belong to the KNU but were not permanent members. We still cant verify who is behind them but we assume they acted on KNU orders, said Maj-Gen Zaw Min Tun.

The KNU, a powerful ethnic armed organization and a signatory to the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA), denied the Tatmadaws accusation.

KNUs general secretary Padoh Saw Ta Doh Moo said: We dont give instructions to kill Tatmadaw soldiers. It is not our policy. These issues are complicated. There must be conflicts of interest in these cases. The killings are nothing to do with the KNU.

In early September, Tatmadaw accused a splinter group of the Democratic Karen Benevolent Army (DKBA), which is also an NCA signatory, of being responsible for the killings. Tatmadaw then carried out security operations and clashed with a DKBA subsidiary group led by Brigadier General Saw Kyaw Thet.

The Tatmadaw said its soldiers were killed in retaliation for drug busts in Myawaddy Township in Karen State in August.

Translated from Burmese by Thet Ko Ko

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An elderly woman sits in a hall where Anglophone refugees from Cameroon wait to be relocated at the Agadom Refugee Settlement in Ogoja, Nigeria, April 2019.  UNHCR/Will Swanson

SAN JOSE, Costa Rica  Despite suffering knee problems and hypertension, 69-year-old Nicaraguan asylum-seeker Esperanza* used to get up at dawn every day to pick coffee to support her family in Costa Rica.

Being old makes it hard to do the kinds of jobs we have to do to keep food on the table, says the grandmother of 10 who fled Nicaragua in 2018 after a government crackdown on street protests there.

Picking coffee is very physically demanding, and at our age its very difficult to be out there in the fields all day, sometimes freezing and shivering under the pouring rain. If we were younger, it would be easier, she said.

As older people seeking safety in a foreign country, life was already a daily struggle for Esperanza and her husband, who also escaped to Costa Rica. And now with the COVID-19 pandemic, that situation has only grown tougher.

As lockdown hit, Esperanzas work dried up and she and her husband fell behind on payments for the room they rented and were threatened with eviction.

Being old makes it hard to do the kinds of jobs we have to do to keep food on the table.

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, provided them with assistance that allowed them to pay the back rent they owed and keep a roof over their heads.

Older asylum-seekers like Esperanza make up some four per cent of the population of concern to UNHCR around the world. From the Americas, to Africa and Asia, many report an already difficult life getting even harder as the pandemic grinds on.

In southern Nigeria, 68-year-old refugee James Orock received financial help from his son in China since fleeing violence in Cameroon in February last year. But as his sons business suffered in the pandemic, he no longer receives the remittances he relied on.

Things (prices) have just skyrocketed, says James, speaking at a settlement in Cross River State where UNHCR has provided information and support with hygiene to protect against coronavirus. Additionally, it has distributed pepper, okra, yam and pumpkin seeds that can be sown and harvested within a month to supplement food.

We pray that it should not continue, otherwise some of us will not cope, he adds.

Pandemics and their impact on older people like Esperanza and James are the focus of this years International Day of Older Persons on 1 October.

The pandemic is putting older people at greater risk of poverty, discrimination and isolation."

The COVID-19 pandemic is causing untold fear and suffering for older people across the world,UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said back in May.

Beyond its immediate health impact, the pandemic is putting older people at greater risk of poverty, discrimination and isolation. It is likely to have a particularly devastating impact on older people in developing countries, he added.

Among older refugees struggling with poverty and discrimination is 69-year-old Salvadoran cook Francisco, who fled to neighbouring Guatemala after street gang members murdered his wife and son in front of him.

In Guatemala, Francisco managed to find a job, but the business shuttered during the pandemic. When he returned to work after the lockdown restrictions were eased, the boss said his services would no longer be needed.

See also: Older Colombians and Venezuelans take care of each other under the same roof

I believe she was discriminating against me because of my age, he said. After being let go, Francisco resorted to the only way of making a living he could think of: selling food that he prepares in his small rented room as part of a programme supported by UNHCR through its partners in Guatemala.

I never imagined having to live through something like this, said Francisco. Ive had to start over. And at my age, its hard to find work.

I never imagined having to live through something like this. Ive had to start over. And at my age, its hard to find work.

Millions of older people worldwide are at greater risk of death from COVID-19, and many have reduced their social contact to cut the risk of infection.

Aside from anxiety for his health, 84-year-old Bhutanese refugee Padma Lal Timsina frets that he is becoming increasingly cut off from the family support that is so important to him in old age at the Beldangi refugee settlement in Nepal.

At one time he was surrounded by an extended family of 14 at the settlement where he has lived since 1991. But nine relatives were resettled to a third country and some who remain live in a separate part of the camp.

Before this disease came here, we used to gather around the peepal tree, chitchat, share jokes over a cup of tea and keep ourselves entertained. Now we are confined to our house, he said.

The UN has urged governments to target policy and other measures to raise awareness of the special needs of older people. At the same time it asks for recognition for the contributions older people make to their own health and broader responses to the pandemic.

With reporting by Austin Ramirez Reyes in San Jose, Costa Rica; Alicia Alvarez Gil in Guatemala City; Deepesh Das Shrestha in Damak, Nepal and Tony Aseh in Nigeria. Writing by Tim Gaynor and Matthew Mpoke Bigg.

*Name changed for protection reasons.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 20:57:28|Editor: huaxia

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DAMASCUS, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- The Syrian Foreign Ministry stressed on Thursday that Syria will remain against any peace deals or treaties with Israel as long as they don't bring back territories occupied by Israel, according to the state news agency SANA.

Any deal or agreement with the "Israeli enemy" is detrimental to the Arab issues on top of which is the Palestinian issue, said the ministry.

It stressed that the Syrian stance "has been and will be against those who have signed and will sign in the future on agreements that don't bring back rights and occupied lands."

The statement comes against the backdrop of the recent peace deal reached between the United Arab Emirates and Israel as well as the other one signed between Bahrain and Israel.

Syria and Israel have been archenemies, particularly as Israel occupied the Syrian Golan Heights in 1967.

On Wednesday, Syria's permanent representative to the UN, Hussam Eddin Ala, reiterated Syria's demand for ending the Israeli occupation of the Golan Heights. Enditem
Lily Watson is in her first year of a masters degree in clinical neuropsychology at La Trobe University, and full of ambition for what she will do with her qualification at the end of next year. "Id love to get out into the field and work in the justice area," she said. "There are a lot of people with brain injuries who are involved in the criminal system and Id like to support them to re-engage with the community and manage their functioning." But Ms Watson could be among the last neuropsychology graduates at La Trobe. The university has suspended enrolments for next year, in a "difficult decision" it said was driven by economic necessity. "While we recognise this is a degree highly valued by the neuropsychology community and those who benefit from the services provided by graduates, the program has been making a significant financial loss as it is very expensive to run," a university spokesperson said. "In the current environment, this is not sustainable."

The university will consider reintroducing the degree in 2022 if it can find a way to minimise financial losses. Ms Watson has launched an online petition against cutting the program that has gathered more than 2000 signatures. Dana Wong, a senior lecturer in clinical neuropsychology at La Trobe, said cutting the program was not a strategic move, even when universities are being forced to make tough decisions because of a lack of funding or government support. "Training a skilled and specialised psychology workforce is more important than ever, especially in a COVID 19-affected world where mental health and brain function are both at high risk," Dr Wong said.

Sam Gibbard, president of the RMIT division of the National Tertiary Education Union, said the university's college of business and law was considering discontinuing courses but had not yet said which would be cut. "They're talking about cutting courses at the moment and also in their proposals they're trying to reduce the number of senior academics on staff," he said. An RMIT spokesperson said that this year some of the university's programs had not run because of low student demand, while new ones had been introduced. Monash University has confirmed its proposal to discontinue 103 units of study. Other universities The Age approached said they had not yet culled degrees or units of study.

With international students not expected to return in large numbers next year, the federal government committed $326 million this week to fund an extra 12,000 domestic places. Its Job Ready Graduates Bill, at risk of being blocked in the Senate after Tasmanian senator Jackie Lambie rejected it, is also an attempt to add 100,000 places over a decade, while raising fees for some courses and reducing them for others. Loading Higher education expert Mark Warburton said the government's proposed funding changes would cut per student revenue by 6 per cent, but the bigger issue for universities was the decline in international students because of COVID-19. "It wasnt too bad first semester, it got a bit worse this semester and it looks like it's going to be substantially worse next year ... which is why, effectively, I think it's irresponsible for the government to be doing this [funding change] at this point of time."

Mr Warburton said Victorian universities had been harder hit by the decline in international student numbers than those in other states. Higher education expert Andrew Norton said the good news was that the University of Melbourne had revised down its estimated losses. But he said the Indian student market was a concern for Victorian universities. "The Indian students rely on the labour market in Australia to support themselves and in Victoria that's still diabolically bad due to the lockdown," he said. Mr Norton, a professor in the practice of higher education at ANU, described the government's university funding plans as "next year's problems".
The Yutu-2 moon rover, taken by the Chang'e-4 lunar probe on the far side of the moon. Picture released on Jan. 11, 2019. (China National Space Administration [CNSA] via CNS/AFP/China OUT)

China Could Win the Next Moon Race

Commentary

President Donald Trump has committed the United States to returning U.S. astronauts to the moon by 2024, and the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has assembled its Artemis program to do so, to include unprecedented participation by new commercial space service providers.

However, the Democratic Partys 2020 platform, while supporting the Artemis program, does not endorse the 2024 goal for returning to the moon. Its worth recalling that as Vice President, Joe Biden watched his boss President Barack Obama in 2010 cancel NASAs return-to-the-moon Constellation program of his predecessor, George W. Bush.

Recent Chinese revelations indicate that should financial or political pressures prompt the next Administration to delay or cancel the Artemis program, China could win this second race to the moon. In doing so, China could reap both the military and economic benefits of controlling choice locations on the moon, and of securing the lead in building a dominant strategic position to exercise control over the Earth-Moon System.

Over the last two years, China has been hinting that it has a sophisticated program that might allow it to put its astronauts on the moon by the mid-to-late 2020s. In late October 2018, images began emerging from the Oct. 23, 2018 China Manned Space Conference held in Xian, China. These images expanded slightly on a new five-meter diameter manned space launch vehicle (SLV) just revealed two weeks before at the 2018 Zhuhai Airshow. Images also emerged of new lightweight moon landers and possible moon habitats and rovers.

Following these initial revelations, some articles emerged along with much speculation on Chinese military and space issue web pages, but there were no official statements by the Chinese regime or high corporate officials confirming that China was accelerating its manned moon program. Previously, a number of officials had stated that China would not send people to the moon until 2030 or thereafter, as China first had to develop its 10-meter diameter 50-ton to the moon payload Long March-9 heavy SLV.

But this changed on Sept. 18, 2020 when the 2020 China Space Conference in Fuzhou, Fujian Province, was briefed by Zhou Yanfei, a deputy director with the China Manned Space Engineering Office (CMSEO). This office is directly subordinate to the new Armaments Development Department of the Central Military Commission (CMC) of the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA). In short, Chinas NASA is a department of the PLA designed to secure military advantages for China.

Zhou Yanfei, deputy director of the China Manned Space Engineering Office. (Screenshot/Global Times)

Zhou affirmed many of the programs hinted at in 2018, and then some. Regarding the yet unnamed five-meter diameter SLV, dubbed the 921 Rocket by Chinese space fans, Zhou was reported on Sept. 18 in the Global Times saying, China is pressing ahead with the research and development of a crewed heavy-lift carrier rocket, whose launch capability would reach 70 tons to the Low Earth orbit (LEO) and 27 tons to the Lunar Transfer orbit (LTO).  The new rocket will be able to carry a manned spaceship and lunar lander into the LTO. Informal Chinese sources have indicated this new SLV could be tested as early as 2023. By using two 921 Rockets, one for a manned spaceship and one for a moon lander, China could possibly reach the moon well before 2030.

A 921 Rocket. (Screenshot/spaceflightfans.cn)

Zhous briefing presentation slides revealed that Chinas new two-stage, two to six passenger manned space capsule that first flew on May 5, 2020, could be modified with a larger service module and emergency escape rockets on the crew capsule side similar to the U.S. SpaceX Crew Dragon.

But the larger service module means China can transport larger payloads to the moon. The service module would function like the unused 1960s Soviet Lunniy Korabl or LK lightweight six-ton moon lander, which would have descended to four kilometers above the moon using a Blok D engine, which then detached and crashed into the moon.

Chinas two-stage manned space capsule. (Screenshot/spaceflightfans.cn)

Slides from the 2018 conference, and from Zhou Yanfei, affirm that China may be developing two lightweight moon landers that would employ a detachable BlokD-like descent engine. One moon lander concept, seen below, appears to be five to seven tons and would be placed in moon orbit for crew transfer. A second moon lander is only five tons and appears to be suited for repeat use from a Cis-Lunar or moon-orbiting small space station.

A moon lander concept. (Screenshot/spaceflightfans.cn)

Slides from the 2018 conference, and from Zhou Yanfei, also reveal that China will support its astronauts on the moon with a pre-positioned moon habitat that could also be developed into a large mobile moon rover, seen below. This habitat/rover will also use a BlokD-like detachable descent engine and internal engines for the last several kilometers.

A moon rover. (Screenshot/spaceflightfans.cn)

Chinese slides from both conferences reveal three concepts for Cis-Lunar small space stations, the most recent revealed by Zhou Yanfei is below. The recent U.S. Artemis program is also developing a small Cis-Lunar space station, but Chinese academic sources indicate an interest in Cis-Lunar space stations dating back to 2005.

Chinas Cis-Lunar small space station. (Screenshot/spaceflightfans.cn)

The more recent Chinese small space station concept may also allow China to use the moon to support a new presence in the strategic L2 Lagrangian Pointan area beyond the moon with symmetric gravitational properties that can lower the fuel requirements for station keeping. China is developing a series of deep space aimed radar satellites to put in L2 to better find new exoplanets around near or distant stars. Satellites in L2 could also be used to monitor all traffic between the Earth, Moon and Mars.

Would China put weapons on the moon to better defend its stations and satellites at L2, preserve its hold on the new strategic high ground and better control the Earth-Moon System? Chances are good that Zhou Yanfeis team has long been working with the PLA to design military systems for the moon.

If the United States presses ahead to establish the first significant presence on the moon, engaging the most international partners, it may have a better chance of deterring China from militarizing the moon. But if China takes that leadership, its moon program could reflect the military requirements of the PLA to win wars on Earth. China may also be able to establish a toll booth to control or influence the access of other nations to the future Space Economy, which could enhance prosperity on Earth for future generations. By getting to the moon first, the United States has a much better chance of countering Chinas quest for hegemony on Earth and beyond.

Richard D. Fisher, Jr. is a senior fellow with the International Assessment and Strategy Center.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
The battle for G4S heated up yesterday as its two biggest shareholders spurned a 3billion hostile takeover bid from a Canadian rival  but stressed they are open to a deal at a 'fair price'.

Fund manager Schroders said it agreed with the security giant's board that the 190p a share offer from Garda World 'significantly undervalues' the scandal-prone company.

The same offer was unanimously rejected by the G4S board just over a fortnight ago. But Schroders, with a 10.49 per cent stake, offered hope to Garda World by making it clear it is willing to engage in talks and is open to a takeover if it increases its bid.

Too low: Fund manager Schroders said it agreed with G4S's board that the 190p a share offer from Garda World 'significantly undervalues' the scandal-prone company

G4S has appealed to shareholders to 'take absolutely no action in relation to the unattractive and opportunistic offer'.

But Sue Noffke, Schroders' head of UK equities, said: 'As the largest shareholder in G4S, Schroders agrees with the G4S board that the 190p bid from Garda World significantly undervalues the company and its prospects.

'However, we are prepared to engage and are open to a deal at a fair price for that more fully reflects peer multiples, synergies and other strategic benefits for an acquirer.'

The other top ten investors include Chicago-based investment firm Harris Associates, which has a 10.04 per cent sake, and Mondrian Investment Partners with a 5.07 per cent stake.

David Herro, of Harris Associates, said Garda World's bid 'does not come close to closing the gap between their offer and our measurement of intrinsic value for G4S'. But he added: 'We would be open to a higher bid'.

Garda World is contacting shareholders directly in an attempt to win them over. It needs to secure a 90 per cent vote among investors to seal the deal.

Yesterday, the Canadian firm launched another attack on G4S in an attempt to persuade shareholders to accept the offer on the table.

The Montreal-based firm's boss Stephan Cretier claimed he would 'educate' shareholders on how best to manage G4S.

And he dismissed protests from the company's management that it is back on track following a series of scandals, that date back to the 2012 London Olympics when the army had to be drafted in after it failed to provide enough security guards.

When the hostile takeover bid was announced on Wednesday shares jumped above 2 for the first time since February.

They edged up again yesterday, rising 0.8 per cent, and are up almost 40 per cent since news of the 3billion takeover bid emerged just over two weeks ago.

G4S declined to comment.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 18:27:33|Editor: huaxia

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ISTANBUL, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Turkish officials on Thursday obliged all to present a "health code" to access all kinds of urban public transport and accommodation facilities to better cope with the spread of the COVID-19.

Turkish Interior Ministry said at a notice sent to all the governorships across the country the previous day that the isolation of those who are diagnosed with COVID-19 is one of the important issues in struggling against the pandemic.

Starting from early hours on Thursday, local officials, along with police teams, conducted wide-scale inspections across the country to monitor compliance with the new health code rule.

Ihsan Kara, district governor of Eyupsultan, one of the middle-class districts on the European side of Istanbul, and his team informed and assisted the citizens and public transport drivers about the requirement of the code during the inspections.

Kara told Xinhua on the scene that most of the residents have so far done their best in following the rule in general.

"We have warned those who did not follow the rule and applied administrative measures to those who acted deliberately," Kara added.

The health code, provided by an e-government portal or a mobile app, reveals whether citizens are infected with the coronavirus or get in contact with an infected person.

The ministry also obliged all the accommodation facilities, including hotels, hostels, and guest houses in the country, to ask the health code from their guests upon their arrivals.

Last week, Turkey had made the health code mandatory for citizens to be able to access all public institution buildings. It has been already compulsory in intercity trains, buses, and flights. Enditem
SYDNEY, N.S. The Jane Paul Indigenous Womens Resource Centre reopened its doors Wednesday to offer services to some of the more vulnerable Indigenous women in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality.

For Darren Paul, it was an emotional day for his family. He and Jane Paul, the Mikmaw woman the centre was renamed after, have a daughter, Crisinda Paul, together.

It means a lot, its good, its very good for a lot of women, theyll have a place to go, said Paul.

Jane Paul was an advocate and volunteered at the resource centre. After Janes death in 2016, the centre was renamed after her. Crisinda was on hand to cut the red ribbon for the reopening. The 14-year-old was visibly emotional like many in attendance.

Karen Bernard is the director of the centre and she spent a lot of hours prepping for the reopening. She was elated to finally reopen.

This weight is off my chest because we got through the biggest part we had to get through and I feel great, said Bernard.

The Jane Paul Centre provides vulnerable Indigenous women with resources to help with housing, employment, skills training and peer supports. Due to funding issues, the centre was closed for almost a year but in February, the province of Nova Scotia committed $150,000 annually for the next five years to help the centre to reopen.

But by March, the COVID-19 pandemic had limited the centre. In June, Bernard was hired as the director and helped guide the reopening plan and the centres many renovations. It now has a stove where women can cook, a collection of Indigenous artwork and Bernard says a plethora of commitments from outside organizations. Through partnerships with the Mikmaw Native Friendship Centre and the Young Womens Christian Association, the centre will get added housing supports and an Indigenous peer support worker. The center is also in the process of bringing in a missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls (MMIWG) prevention worker.

We will have a lot of support, a team here that was never here before, said Bernard.

The centre is adjusting to the pandemic by doing contact tracing and will limit the hours the women can access the centre, which Bernard admits is a barrier. She would like for the women to have unlimited access, but public safety is a must. The centre also brought in personal protective equipment, hand sanitizer and masks.

Annie Bernard-Daisley is the president of the Nova Scotia Native Womens Association and was happy to see the centre reopen. Shes made it her lifes work to help Indigenous women.

It means the world to me to be able to stand up and speak out and represent our women and represent our people in a capacity that actually results in action, said Bernard-Daisley.

When Bernard-Daisley was elected as president she made it her goal to see the centre reopen and continue to support Indigenous women. She was ecstatic to see the provincial government make such a commitment to Indigenous women and said she would like to see the federal government make similar commitments.

I hope the federal government addresses and creates the right path to the 231 calls for justice, said Bernard-Daisley.

She said anyone hoping to help the centre should come down and see what they need.

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A REMAND prisoner at a Dublin jail has brought a legal action claiming he was denied his right to make phone calls to his solicitor.

The man has claimed the authorities at Cloverhill Prison refused to allow him to contact his solicitor Aonghus McCarthy by phone.

Mr Justice Anthony Barr granted him leave to issue judicial review proceedings against the governor of the prison following an ex parte application (one side only represented) at the High Court.

The court heard the prisoner was arrested on July 1 last, charged and denied bail, and was remanded to Cloverhill.

He claims while in custody, he was wrongfully refused permission to have his solicitor added as a person on his prison telephone card to allow him make the calls.

In affidavits, the prisoner alleged he was told Mr McCarthy had not provided a phone number and had not consented to receiving calls.

The applicant is seeking declarations from the court that he has been denied his right to reasonable access to his solicitor, that his Constitutional right to access to legal advice has been denied and that the respondent is compelled to put in place a system allowing him to make telephone contact with his solicitor.

He is also seeking damages and costs.

Mr McCarthy said in an affidavit he had never been asked to indicate his willingness to accept calls from a client. He said he wrote to the governor of Cloverhill in July and August confirming his firms willingness to receive calls from the applicant.

At the request of the court, a supplemental affidavit from Mr McCarthy was filed, stating that there had been two physical visits to the prison and three video link consultations with the prisoner between July 1 and September 25.

Mr McCarthy said visits and video links had to be requested by a solicitor and booked, and the only way a prisoner had to initiate contact was by phoning the solicitor.

The court heard a prison official stated in an email that the applicant made no request to put Mr McCarthys number on his phone card.

Mr Justice Barr said reasonable access to legal advisors was a fundamental right of all accused. The application as first presented to the court made no mention of the physical and video consultations. This was an extraordinary omission that did not give a fair and complete picture," he said.

Mr McCarthy as an experienced solicitor knows the duties that arise in such applications, the judge said.

He was tempted to refuse the application on this basis but said that would work a considerable injustice on the applicant. The case was adjourned to October 20.

The judge said the applicant must bear his own costs for the ex parte application.
Cardinals at Pope Francis' inaugural mass in 2013 - AP

The Vatican says it has been swindled in some of its investments, including a multi-million-pound property deal in London, as it revealed for the first time that it holds total assets worth about 4 billion.

The Holy See took the unusual decision to release on Thursday the most detailed breakdown of its finances ever disclosed, including pie charts showing its income, investments and expenses.

It is possible that in some cases, the Holy See was, apart from being badly advised, also swindled, said Father Juan Antonio Guerrero Alves, the Vaticans minister for the economy.

The Vatican has been mired in a scandal over the 2014 purchase of a 350 million property in Sloane Avenue in London, in which the building was reportedly bought for far more than its market value, resulting in substantial losses for the Holy See.

Money was allegedly skimmed off by intermediaries, with an investigation by the Vatican still ongoing.

A powerful cardinal who has been linked to the deal was last week forced to resign over allegations of embezzlement and nepotism, with Pope Francis taking the rare decision to strip him of his rights as a cardinal.

Cardinal Becciu was told to step down by the Pope - AFP

Giovanni Angelo Becciu, who was head of the Vatican department that decides which Catholics should be made saints, has also been accused of funneling money and contracts to companies and charities run by his three brothers, but has strongly denied any wrongdoing.

Compounding his problems, the cardinals lawyer was forced to resign on Thursday after posting on social media photos of himself posing on a beach in a pair of skimpy swimming trunks.

Ivano Iai said he was sorry for the embarrassment he had caused with the photos, in which he was draped over rocks and lay on the sand on a beach in Sardinia. He had posted the revealing photos on Twitter and Instagram.

The cardinal's lawyer resigned after posting photos of himself on social media wearing a pair of skimpy trunks at the beach

He said it was with great sorrow that he had resigned as lawyer for the cardinal and his brothers.

The debacle added to the sense of chaos within the Vatican, where Pope Francis has fought for years to introduce more transparency and accountability to its byzantine finances.

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In the last few months, Vatican investigators have carried out raids on various departments, including the Vaticans financial watchdog, in connection with the London property deal. Computers and files have been seized and several staff members suspended.

They also arrested an Italian businessman who allegedly helped broker the purchase of the building in Chelsea.

Francis has been trying to improve financial transparency since the start of his papacy - Shutterstock

The release of the 12-page consolidated financial statement, as well as an interview with Father Guerrero, appeared to be an attempt by the Vatican to counter criticism that its finances remain opaque and riddled with corruption.

"I think that we are learning from the errors or the imprudence of the past, he said. The finances of the Vatican must be as transparent as a house of glass. The faithful have the right to know how we use the money.

The Vatican was working to introduce more transparency and to improve communication between its different departments.

We can certainly make mistakes, or be swindled, but that is harder when we collaborate together, he said.
Daugherty currently serves as the U.S. head of Military and Veterans Outreach at Barclays. Previously she led Military Employment Efforts at First Data. While in that role, Military Times recognized the organization as a Best for Vets award recipient in 2017, 2018, and 2019. She also worked for 10 years in the career counseling field after serving as an Air Traffic Controller in the U.S. Army.

Daugherty was one of a select group of 33 leaders selected for the 2018 (Inaugural) Class of Bush Institute Stand-To Veteran Leadership Program at the Bush Institute in Dallas, TX.

"It is great to welcome Tiffany Daugherty back to the WWP family," said WWP CEO Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Mike Linnington. "Her military and leadership experience, coupled with her post-uniformed service in business and career counseling will greatly aid warriors in a time of economic uncertainty."

Reynolds is also a registered warrior with WWP. Reynolds heads his own private consulting firm after being a manager at a major U.S. consulting firm following medical retirement from the Army in 2008. He graduated West Point in 2002 as an Infantry Officer.

Reynolds served two deployments during Operation Iraqi Freedom, surviving an IED blast during combat operations in southwest Baghdad, in 2004. That explosion led to 26 surgeries over more than two years of recovery. While doctors were able to save his left arm, ultimately, they had to amputate his left leg above the knee.

"Will Reynolds' experience leading troops in combat, overcoming significant obstacles during recovery, and advocating for wounded veterans will be valuable as we continue innovating programs to meet warriors' needs," Linnington said. "He is an inspiration to other wounded veterans."

Reynolds remained in uniformed service during his rehabilitation, working a full schedule at the Pentagon in the office responsible for mitigating and defeating IED threats throughout Iraq and Afghanistan. After medically retiring, Reynolds earned an MBA in Health Sciences Management and a master's degree in Public Health. He also co-authored Making it Millennial, which studied demographic shifts and the impact on government.

Reynolds was a finalist for the White House Fellows program and sits on several boards including Move United, EquiCenter, Fisher House Foundation, and U.S. Military Endurance Sports.

Reynolds has not let his injuries slow him down. He was a Captain of the U.S. team for Invictus Games, competed in Warrior Games, and is a U.S. Paralympic hopeful.

WWP also bids farewell to Justin Constantine, who served on the board for nine years and is leaving because of term limits.

WWP's board comprises individuals with experience in military, business, nonprofit, government, and medical fields, and with varying educational backgrounds. The board regularly evaluates its composition to ensure it includes the appropriate skills, experience, and perspective necessary to fulfill its support of WWP's mission to honor and empower wounded warriors. Since late 2016, WWP has grown its board by electing 14 directors, all with diverse backgrounds.

Learn more about WWP's board.

About Wounded Warrior Project

Since 2003, Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) has been meeting the growing needs of warriors, their families, and caregivers  helping them achieve their highest ambition. Learn more at https://newsroom.woundedwarriorproject.org/about-us.

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With the Centre allowing only business to business (B2B) exhibitions in its guidelines for reopening, the India Trade and Promotion Organisation has decided not to organise the 40th edition of the India International Trade Fair (IITF) this year.

This is the second time in history that IITF, which was first held in 1979, will not be organised. The first time it was not held was 1980, said an ITPO official.

When contacted, LC Goyal, chairman and managing director of ITPO, said, Under the Unlock 5 guidelines, only B2B exhibitions are allowed from October 15. The trade fair, ITPOs flagship event, is largely a business-to-consumer event. Therefore, we have decided not to hold the event this time. In any case, we need at least two months to prepare for the event.

For the past two years, the trade fair is being organised at a much smaller scale due to the ongoing redevelopment work.

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NEW YORK, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- DLA Piper represented Acesso Digital Tecnologia da Informacao S.A., a software-as-a-service (SaaS) company based in Brazil, in its R$580 million (US$108 million) Series B financing. The round was led by General Atlantic and SoftBank.

Based in Sao Paulo, Acesso Digital is a technology company specializing in digital identity authentication solutions, including facial recognition, remote hiring and electronic signatures.

"It was a pleasure to represent Acesso Digital and its incredible team in this financing, which as reported was the largest Series B investment ever received by a SaaS company in Latin America," said Andre Thiollier, a member of DLA Piper's Corporate practice who led the firm's deal team. "Our broad experience advising technology and SaaS companies in emerging growth transactions and our proven ability to deliver sophisticated and practical cross-border legal guidance were key factors in the success of this transaction."

In addition to Thiollier (Silicon Valley), the DLA Piper team representing Acesso Digital included partner Anil Kalia (Silicon Valley) and associates Stasha Loeza (Seattle), Elizabeth Castellanos and Irene Hong (both of Silicon Valley). Acesso Digital was also advised by Veirano Advogados, including partner Sergio Bronstein, associates Paula Bobrow, Thiago Mendes de Oliveira and Bruno Habib Negreiros Barbosa and intern Samy Kauffmann; and Conyers Dill & Pearman, including partner Nicholas Pattman and associate Ali Low.

DLA Piper's Emerging Growth and Venture Capital practice includes more than 200 lawyers in the US who provide strategic counsel to emerging companies in high-growth industries, including software, communications, biotech, manufacturing and semiconductors. In 2019, the firm handled more than 697 venture capital financings totaling over US$10.3 billion. Over the last three years, DLA Piper has completed more than 2,100 financings totaling over US$31 billion.

DLA Piper's global Technology sector lawyers work across practice areas and offices to support technology clients  from startups to fast-growing and mid-market businesses to mature global enterprises  doing business around the world.

About DLA Piper

DLA Piper is a global law firm with lawyers located in more than 40 countries throughout the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, positioning us to help clients with their legal needs around the world. In certain jurisdictions, this information may be considered attorney advertising. dlapiper.com

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Canada has seen record low growth in its population in the second quarter of the year, mainly due to a fall in migration to the country due to travel restrictions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

A key highlight of the trend is that the number of Indians arriving in Canada as permanent residents (PRs) this year is set to number less than half the total for 2019.

According to the countrys data agency Statistics Canada or StatCan, there was just a 0.1% increase in population between April and June, which is a record low.

StatCan said in a release, International migration is the main driver of population growth in Canada, accounting for 81.9% of growth in 2019-2020. Therefore, the restrictions placed on international borders and the subsequent drop in international migration levels had the largest impact on population growth in 2019-2020.

Coronavirus-related curbs have markedly affected Indians moving to Canada; they have comprised the largest source group for the countrys PRs in recent years. According to data from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Indian-origin PRs in 2019 were at a peak of 85,590, up from 69,980 the previous year.

The category saw the numbers rise during the first quarter of the year, growing from 15,595 to 16,660. However, as Covid-19 restrictions came into place, there was a sharp drop in PRs in the country, falling from 23,825 for the second quarter of 2019 to only 9,945 for the same period this year.

In total, just 29,800 Indians became Canadian PRs till the end of July this year, a pace that indicates the total will be below half of that for 2019.

This is in sharp contrast to the situation last year. StatCan noted that the July-October quarter of 2019 had seen the numbers reach 208,659, growing by 0.6%. It said it was the highest level of growth for a quarter since comparable record keeping began in July 1971.

However, the global pandemic began to affect the demographic patterns in Canada at the end of the first quarter of 2020, StatCan said, after Canada recorded its first Covid-19 death on March 9 and curbs, including those on international travel, came into effect about a week later.

Canada had targeted accepting more than 300,000 new PRs each year. The pandemic could possibly make the government wind down those numbers in the near future.

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Sen. Ted Cruz appeared on Cuomo Prime Time Wednesday, and the interview quickly turned contentious when the Texas politician chose to focus on host Chris Cuomos brother, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, instead of President Donald Trump.

While discussing the federal response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Cruz pointed out that New York and New Jersey had the most deaths and they are run by Democrats. Cruz repeatedly mentioned Gov. Cuomos response, while Chris Cuomo tried to get him to discuss Trumps response.

Why don't you talk to the president like you talk to my brother? asked Cuomo. Are you afraid of him, like hell smack you down at home like he did in primaries? Confused, Cruz sarcastically replied, Oh yeah, Im scared of the Cuomos. Cuomo fired back, Im talking about the president. My brother's not the president. Im talking about the president  the one who called you a liar. The one that said your wife is ugly. That guy.

Cruz initially campaigned against Trump in the 2016 presidential election before ultimately endorsing him. During their brief time as opponents, Trump mocked Cruzs wife and suggested his father was involved in the assassination of JFK.

Cruz argued that singling out New York is pertinent, saying, When the death rates are markedly worse in some states than others, we should ask a reasonable question. To which Cuomo quickly responded, Yeah, why didn't the president help sooner? That's the question. Why didnt the president help sooner?

This was Cruzs first appearance on Cuomo Prime Time, and judging from the fireworks, quite possibly his last.

Cuomo Prime Time airs weeknights at 9 p.m. on CNN.

Watch as Kamala Harris calls out Trumps 'stand back and stand by' comment:

For the latest coronavirus news and updates, follow along at https://news.yahoo.com/coronavirus. According to experts, people over 60 and those who are immunocompromised continue to be the most at risk. If you have questions, please reference the CDCs and WHOs resource guides.

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90 Day Fiance stars Paul Staehle and Karine Martins have dropped restraining orders they applied for amid a series of accusations they had traded this past summer.

Staehle, 37, and Martins, 24, on September 16 mutually agreed to drop three emergency protective orders and forego a hearing that was slated for December, Us Weekly reported on Wednesday, citing court docs.

The pair exchanged vows in November 2017 and share son Pierre, 18 months. They made headlines this past summer amid a series of accusations indicating critical problems between them.

The latest: 90 Day Fiance stars Paul Staehle, 37, and Karine Martins, 24, have dropped restraining orders they applied for amid a series of accusations they had this past summer

Staehle in July said in an Instagram Stories clip that the Brazilian beauty had put in for a 'full restraining order' from him and that he was 'not allowed to be around her or my son, within 500 feet of them at all.'

Both traded serious allegations against the other in official documents they filed: Martins said that Staehle had sexually assaulted her and tried to manipulate her by not letting her have her Green Card, US reported.

'I am terrified he will hurt me or hurt my son because I [ran] away from him and I am even afraid to go back to Brazil now because he can go to Brazil and hurt us,' she said in court docs, the outlet reported.

Staehle said Martins had 'assaulted' him and that he suspected her of trying to poison his food with glass. He told the court: 'I previously found glass in my food. I found similar glass shards from an item she broke.'

The pair exchanged vows in November 2017 and share son Pierre, 18 months

Where things stand: Martins last month took to Instagram Stories about how she got a protective order against Staehle following a sequence of disturbing instances

Bundle of joy: The couple welcomed son named Pierre Martins Staehle last year

A judge subsequently issued an order keeping Martins at least 500 feet from Staehle amid the problems between the pair.

Staehle also implied on social media that he and Martins were expecting a second son; and that he was working on a home in Brazil and keeping it 'sanitary and baby safe' for the family's sake.

'I have to accept the fact that I will probably never see my wife and son again,' he said on social media earlier this month. 'Or see the birth or ever see my unborn child. That being said I think I am doing what is best staying constructive and busy.'
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 20:14:02|Editor: huaxia

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RAMALLAH, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- A senior Palestinian official said on Thursday that Palestine had officially asked the European Union (EU) to exert pressure on Israel to permit holding the Palestinian elections in East Jerusalem.

Saleh Rafat, a member of the Palestine Liberation Organization Executive Committee, told the official Palestinian radio Voice of Palestine that the Palestinian side urged the EU to intervene actively in facilitating holding the elections in East Jerusalem.

"The EU is ready to respond to our request to hold the elections in East Jerusalem and monitor it in the Palestinian territories," Rafat said.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas announced earlier that the date for holding the elections in Palestine will be decided after an agreement with the Palestinian factions is reached.

Meanwhile, Abbas chaired on Thursday a meeting in Ramallah for Fatah movement's Central Committee.

Jibril Rajoub, a member of the committee, told the official Palestinian radio that the meeting discussed the latest developments related to the comprehensive Palestinian dialogue and a roadmap for holding the elections.

Rajoub unveiled that he held a meeting with Abbas on Wednesday night and briefed him on the results of the dialogue held with the Islamic Hamas movement's leaders in Turkey's Istanbul last week. Enditem
Former Episcopal priest sentenced to 6 years in prison for child porn possession

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A former Massachusetts Episcopal priest has been sentenced to six years of prison after being found guilty of possessing 200 videos and images of child pornography.

Gregory Lisby, a 41-year-old former clergyman with the Episcopal Diocese of Western Massachusetts, was sentenced on Sept. 18 by U.S. District Judge Timothy S. Hillman.

The sentence of six years was below the suggested low-end sentence of 11 years, which had been requested by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen Noto, reported the Telegram & Gazette.

It was also revealed that Lisby had had sexual contact with a 16-year-old boy. However, he was not charged with a crime as 16 is the age of consent in Massachusetts.

The Rev. Vicki Ix, diocesan spokesperson, said she did not know if the minor was the same boy mentioned in a diocese press release from earlier this year as having been allegedly abused by Lisby.

The court has not shared with the diocese any information about the identity of the minor being discussed at Mr. Lisbys sentencing hearing, Ix told the Telegram & Gazette.

Lisby previously served as rector of Christ Church in Ridgewood, New Jersey, from 2010 to 2015 before being transferred to the Diocese of Western Massachusetts.

Also a former kindergarten teacher, Lisby was arrested and charged by the FBI with possession of child pornography in September 2019.

The arrest came after authorities raided his home, which he shared with his husband, the Rev. Timothy Burger of St. Lukes Episcopal Church in Worcester, and two daughters.

Western Massachusetts Bishop Douglas J. Fisher said in an official letter at the time that Lisby was suspended in 2018 due to an inappropriate relationship with an adult that did not involve sexual contact.

Nothing I discovered during the disciplinary process gave me any reason to believe he was a danger to children, wrote Fisher, adding that the diocese was pursuing an investigation into disciplinary action against Lisby and barred him from contacting any Episcopal church.

In late February, Lisby pleaded guilty to one count of child porn possession, with him facing the possibility of getting as much as 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000.

Burger, the spouse of Lisby, was not implicated in any of the charges against Lisby and filed for divorce. The diocese reported that Burger remained in good standing.

In response to the guilty plea, Fisher told the diocese that even after he is released from prison, Lisby will not be permitted any contact with congregations in this diocese without my express permission.

Please know that we take the safety of children very seriously in the Diocese of Western Massachusetts, and our clergy and lay leaders participate in the safe church training programs mandated by the Episcopal Church, wrote Fisher.
Five family members were brutally killed by a mother and daughter who claimed that demons ordered them to do the crime. They followed the demonic voices in their heads, and they carried out the murder which took the lives of five people, including three children.

According to the Sun, 47-year-old Shana Decree and 21-year-old Dominique Decree from Morrisville Pennsylvania claimed that demons spoke in their heads and said that the victims wanted to die.

Murder spree lasted for 3 days

Investigation showed that they killed two close relatives including three children. They pled guilty to the murder charges of five counts of first-degree murder. The defense is trying to claim that the suspects were mentally ill to lessen the sentence.

In an interview, suspects said to the police that the 'demons' were insistent, compelling the mother and daughter to kill their family members. Demons allegedly spoke to them till they could not refuse any longer, turning the flat into a slaughterhouse.

The suspects attended their hearing in Bucks County Court on Monday, September 28. Deputy District Attorney Christopher Rees alleged that the murders took place in three days, according to Meaww.

A story by WPVI reported that a witness from children and youth services caseworker discovered the corpses of the children and other relatives in the flat in 2019. By that time, all of the victims were already lifeless.

The victims were identified as Naa'Irah Smith, 25, Damon Decree Jr, 13, Shana's sister, Jamilla Campbell, 42, and 9-year-old twin daughters Erika and Imani Allen. In an autopsy, the coroner's office said Campbell was asphyxiated, while the others were suffocated until they died gasping for breath.

Also read: Jealous Boyfriend Burned His Fiancee to Death Because She Exposed Her Body on the Beach

The witness saw this disturbing scene at the Decree residence in February 2019. The police entered the flat and found the suspects, Shana and Dominique, who werenot in a normal state of Mind.

The cops observed that everything is in disarray all over the house, with a damaged wall and glass all over the floors. The corpses of the slain family members were all over the place.

When interrogated by the police, they had a different account of the murder. Both insisted that demons spoke to them, and their victims desired to die in the house. When examined by psychologists and psychiatrists, both suspects were found suffering from mental illness during the hearing.

Suspects diagnosed with several mental illnesses

The two had a personality disorder, depressive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder which caused them to murder everyone in the flat. Either one was not functioning normally and thus were spaced out during the massacre.

Dominique's attorney, John Fioravanti Jr., informed the court that Dominique Decree has been under mental treatment since she was 5 years old. Her mother also undergone treatment. The mother and daughter due were were allegedly engaged in cultist behavior with a cult that was not identified, according to family members.

Shana's attorney, Christa Dunleavy, stated that her client was deluded when she killed the victims like cattle, three of which who were young children.

Furthermore, according to the suspects, they felt remorse for the five killings. The Philadelphia Inquirer mentions that President Judge Wallace Bateman said the suspects felt sorry, however, no amount of apology can bring back the five relatives they killed.

Related article: Teen Burglars Torture Old Woman, Feed Her Organs to the Dogs

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Treasures of British Art: The Berger Collection, at the Denver Art Museum

This royal throne of kings, this sceptred isle,

This earth of majesty, this seat of Mars,

This other Eden, demi-paradise,

This fortress built by Nature for herself

Against infection and the hand of war,

This happy breed of men, this little world,

This precious stone set in the silver sea,

Which serves it in the office of a wall

Or as a moat defensive to a house,

Against the envy of less happier lands,

This blessed plot, this earth, this realm, this England

from Shakespeares Richard II, the last line of which is in the wall text of the exhibition Treasures of British Art: The Berger Collection

Delightful glimpses of Shakespeares glorious idea of England can now be seen in Denver, courtesy of Denver-born art collectors late William M.B. and Bernadette Berger.

The Bergers were great advocates of the arts. We have always believed that art, as well as music, poetry, and literature, refreshes and enriches our lives, they said, according to the Denver Art Museum website.

The couple only collected works of art they truly loved and always intended to share those beloved treasures with the public.

In the exhibition Treasures of British Art: The Berger Collection, at the Denver Art Museum, over 60 paintings are on display through Dec. 6. The paintings are a selection of the 65 European old master paintings the Berger Collection Educational Trust presented to the museum in 2018. Curated by Berger Collection curator Kathleen Stuart, the exhibition celebrates the prestigious gift while exploring 500 years of British history.

The exhibition demonstrates just how important a nations art is in charting its history. From the late 1400s to the late 1800s, the exhibition explores Britains cultural changes through the beautiful art of some of the worlds greatest painters. British-born artists, including Thomas Gainsborough and John Constable, are featured alongside non-British artists who spent a considerable amount of time in Britain, such as Flemish artist Anthony van Dyck and American artist Benjamin West.

Portrait of Dorothy, Lady Dacre, circa 1633, by Sir Anthony van Dyck. Oil paint on canvas; 50 inches by 40 inches. Promised Gift of the Berger Collection Educational Trust. (Denver Art Museum)

Reforming Art

The exhibition begins in the Late Middle Ages in Roman Catholic Britain, with some rare examples of British Catholic art. Few religious paintings survive from before the Reformation because in 1534 King Henry VIII created the Church of England (the Anglican Church), banning Catholicism. All traces of the Catholic Church were ordered to be destroyed, which involved the desecration of many sacred artworks.

Under the Reformation, all religious art was banned, and artists who had relied on church commissions such as altarpieces had to adapt to portraiture. The first portraits were of royals. A wonderful early example in the exhibition is of Edward, Prince of Wales (later King Edward VI), painted circa 1538, by German artist Hans Holbein the Younger and his studio.

Edward, Prince of Wales (later Edward VI), circa 1538, by Hans Holbein the Younger and studio. Oil paint on panel; 22 3/4 inches by 17 inches. Promised gift of the Berger Collection Educational Trust. (Denver Art Museum)

In the painting, an adorable baby Edward is dressed in regal red and gold, holding a golden rattle similar to the scepter he would hold in the future. The painting includes a Latin inscription by the humanist scholar Richard Morison, Henry VIIIs propagandist, which translates as Little one, emulate thy father and be the heir of his virtue; the world contains nothing greater. Heaven and earth could scarcely produce a son whose glory would surpass that of such a father. Do thou but equal the deeds of thy parent and men can ask no more. Shouldst thou surpass him, thou has outstript all, nor shall any surpass thee in ages to come.

Portraiture for the People

Following the royal lead, merchants and landowners after 1700 commissioned artists to paint their portraits. The patrons were often painted among objects symbolic of their growing wealth and societal standing. For instance, theyd be dressed in the latest fashion, holding an object to show their profession.

During the same period, wealthy merchants and landowners began to commission portraits of themselves and their families with their country home in the background. They also commissioned paintings of their home and even portraits of their favorite horse.

A Saddled Bay Hunter, 1786, by George Stubbs. Oil paint on panel; 21 3/4 inches by 27 3/4 inches. Gift of the Berger Collection Educational Trust, 2019. (Denver Art Museum)

Preeminent British horse painter George Stubbs was a favored choice for these horse portraits. One of Stubbss horse paintings, A Saddled Bay Hunter, is in the exhibition. Stubbss anatomically accurate renderings were the result of his fastidious and remarkable studies.

Portrait of Queen Charlotte, circa 1776, by American artist Benjamin West. Active in England, 17381820. Oil on canvas. Lent by the Berger Collection Educational Trust. (Denver Art Museum)

Landowners also commissioned portraits of the royal family for their home. One endearing example in the exhibition is by American painter Benjamin West. In his painting, a charmingly contemplative Queen Charlotte, dressed in sumptuous gray satin, takes a break from her embroidery cloth. The portrait differs from official portraits, which are often formal, but the sentiment is no less regal. The portrait is thought to have been paired with a portrait of the king.

British Artistic Renaissance

British art in the 1700s echoed the growing interest in history that the Enlightenment brought. Referencing the art of ancient Rome and Greece, British artists embraced a neoclassical style of painting and architecture.

Portrait of the Radcliffe Family, circa 1742, by Thomas Hudson. Oil paint on canvas. 104 1/4 inches by 162 1/8 inches. Gift of the Berger Collection Educational Trust. (Denver Art Museum)

Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, wealthy Britons traveled to Europe for Grand Tours, exploring the ancient Roman sites, which were being excavated. The tourists eventually visited Greece, which was excavated later due to the sites being less accessible.

Inspired by the Italian landscape paintings created for those who visited places such as Rome, British artists created the first British landscape paintings in the late-17th century. A few mid-18th-century British landscape paintings are in the exhibition.

Swiss painter Angelica Kauffman painted such souvenir paintings in Rome, where shed traveled with her father, who was a portraitist and fresco painter, to study old master paintings and Renaissance art and architecture. Kauffman began to paint in the neoclassical style in Rome, influenced by the German art historian and archaeologist Johann Joachim Winckelmann, who is thought to have started the neoclassical movement.

Papirius Praetextatus Entreated by His Mother to Disclose the Secrets of the Deliberations of the Roman Senate, circa 177580. Oil paint on canvas; diameter: 24 1/16 inches. Gift of the Berger Collection Educational Trust, 2019. (Denver Art Museum)

In the exhibition, Kauffmans Papirius Praetextatus Entreated by His Mother to Disclose the Secrets of the Deliberations of the Roman Senate is a wonderful example of neoclassical painting. The painting illustrates the Roman tale of how Papirius protected the senates secrets by refusing to reveal them to his mother. The subject matter of these paintings showed righteousness when confronted with temptation, espousing good morals.

At the same time, Britons looked back at Shakespeares work, reviving performances. Publisher John Boydell created a Shakespeare gallery, where he showed the works he had commissioned by famous artists of scenes of Shakespeares plays.

To find out more about the exhibition Treasures of British Art: The Berger Collection at the Denver Art Museum, visit DenverArtMuseum.org
India is open to launching its own mobile app store or expanding an existing one if it receives enough demand from domestic firms for an alternative to Apple and Google platforms, a senior government official said on October 1.

The country has some 500 million smartphone users, most of whom use Google's Android platform, but Indian start-ups have criticised the company for policies they say stifle their growth.

SoftBank-backed Paytm, one of India's leading payments firms, protested against the US tech giant's decision to remove its app for a few hours last month citing violations of gambling policies.

Alphabet-owned Google also said this week that it will strictly enforce a policy which will levy a 30 percent commission on payments made within apps on its Android store.

In response to an earlier media report, a senior Indian official told Reuters New Delhi hasn't received any formal request but was willing to consider developing a mobile platform where apps could be downloaded.

"Before we open one we need to know there will be takers for it," said the government official, declining to be named as he is not authorised to speak with media.

India already runs a mobile app store that lists over 1200 mainly government-backed applications, but also Paytm, and the government could also consider expanding that instead of starting from scratch, the official added.

India's technology ministry, Google and Apple did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Google has previously said that fewer than 3 percent of developers with apps on its Play store sold digital goods over the last 12 months, and nearly 97 percent comply with its payment system policy.

Nonetheless, several Indian start-up founders are calling for a local app store that doesn't charge a high service fee.

"It's absolutely necessary to have a local app store," said Vishal Gondal, co-founder of Bengaluru-based gaming firm nCore Games.

"If we have to give 30 percent fees to Google and also pay for customer acquisition, how will our budding businesses survive?"

Paytm disagreed with Google's assessment but removed certain promotions to have its app reinstated. The company's founder Vijay Shekhar Sharma has said in interviews that Google was acting as "judge, jury and executioner".

Without referring to Paytm by name, Google later said its policies were aimed at protecting users from potential harm and were applied and enforced on all developers consistently.
On National Manufacturing Day, Sacramento manufacturers will offer virtual tours so students can see familiar CNC equipment operating in industry and learn about Advanced Manufacturing careers. When students can talk with employees about manufacturing careers through the zoom tours, they can start to see themselves in similar roles in the future.

Sierra College is participating in a nationwide event on October 2 for National Manufacturing Day to increase awareness of the contributions manufacturing companies make to local economies and to attract students who like to create with their hands to highly paid, in-demand manufacturing careers.

In Sacramento, educators are working closely with manufacturing professionals who are members of SME Sacramento Valley and the Sacramento Valley Manufacturing Initiative (SVMI), according to Jeff Briggs, Regional Director, Advanced Manufacturing North Region, California Community Colleges, housed at Sierra College. Students benefit from seeing work environments and are inspired when they learn about career opportunities from those working in the industry, said Briggs. Virtual tours have proven to be impactful.

Tours are being offered by AMW Design, Garner Products, Inc., Harris & Bruno International, Kratos, Siemens Mobility and Tri Tool, among others. Fourteen schools are participating in 13 virtual tours, reaching over 260 Career Technical Education students. Presentations will be made by representatives such as a manufacturing engineer, CAD/CAM design engineer, CNC operator, welder, electro mechanical technician, quality assurance/quality control and industrial maintenance mechanic.

Connecting students to employers is critical to attracting them to work in the field, explained Dean Peckham, President, SVMI. Sacramento is home to manufacturers of life saving medical devices, food that is shipped worldwide, robotics used in scientific exploration, components for energy saving electric vehicles and many more innovative companies that are making a positive impact on the world, said Peckham. When students can talk with employees about careers through the zoom tours, they can start to see themselves in similar roles in the future.

SVMI is also hosting Manufacturing Day for Manufacturers on October 29. Learn more and how to join a virtual tour at SVMI.

About Sierra College

Sierra College District is rising to the needs of our community. Sierra College serves 3200 square miles of Northern CA with campuses in Roseville, Rocklin, Grass Valley, and Truckee. With approximately 125 degree and certificate programs, Sierra College is ranked first in Northern California (Sacramento north) for transfers to four year universities, offers career/technical training, and classes for upgrading job skills. Sierra graduates can be found in businesses and industries throughout the region.


Bengaluru, Oct 1 : Reacting strongly to a video clip that showed former Congress president Rahul Gandhi falling near the Yamuna Expressway, Congress leaders led by Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee president D. K. Shivakumar took out a torchlight protest march on Thursday evening from the Congress Bhavan to the Mahatma Gandhi statue.

The march witnessed a dramatic turn of events with the police arresting Congress leaders in front of the Mahatma Gandhi statue in the heart of the city.

Notwithstanding the arrest, Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee president, D. K. Shivakumar released a two-minute video recorded in the police van by his workers.

In the clip, Shivakumar gives a call to Congress workers to launch a statewide protest beginning Friday.

"Attack on our leaders is no less than assault on our party's self respect. Congress leaders, be it young or old, should come out on the street and launch widespread protests. Let us teach a befitting lesson to BJP leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath," he thundered.

Congress leaders including Leader of Opposition Siddaramaiah, Shivakumar and KPCC working president, Saleem Ahmed were arrested for organising the protest.

Earlier in the day, Congress and JD(S) leaders took to Twitter to condemn the detention of the Gandhi siblings.

Janata Dal (S) patriarch and former prime minister, H. D. Deve Gowda, too, came out in support of Gandhi siblings, and asserted on his Twitter handle that the BJP should not allow the police to misbehave with any leader from the Opposition.

While his son, former Karnataka chief minister, H. D. Kumarswamy charged that the BJP government was not even hesitating to unleash the brute police force on the leader of opposition. "This is not done," he said in his hard hitting five-series tweets.

Shivakumar also condemned the attack and questioned Prime Minister, Narendra Modi "Why is the PM not speaking about Beti Bachao now?, he questioned angrily. "Under what law has he (Gandhi) been detained? Why are he and Priyanka Gandhi not being allowed to meet the victim's family?" tweeted Shivakumar.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-02 01:01:59|Editor: huaxia

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by Muhammad Tahir

ISLAMABAD, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Chairman of the High Council for National Reconciliation in Afghanistan Abdullah Abdullah has wrapped up his three-day visit to Pakistan with a positive note.

Pakistan's role in the Afghan reconciliation was one of the key items on Abdullah's agenda as he is now in charge of the negotiations with the Taliban to decide a future political roadmap.

Abdullah held meetings with Pakistani leadership and discussed Pakistan's cooperation in the peace process, ways to remove the mistrust between the two countries and to boost trade ties and people-to-people contacts.

"I am leaving Islamabad with a very good impression. In fact my whole team, after their visit, thinks that there is an opportunity and we need to capitalize on it," he said on Wednesday at the conclusion of his visit.

Abdullah told members of a Pakistan-Afghan track-II group on Wednesday that Pakistan and Afghanistan have the opportunity at hand to begin a new era of bilateral relations, based on mutual respect and shared prosperity.

Timing of the visit was important and the Afghan side expected Pakistan's cooperation to encourage the Taliban to show flexibility and reduce violence.

Pakistani leaders in meetings with Abdullah backed the intra-Afghan negotiations and promised improved relations with the neighbor, according to statements issued after the meetings.

As a goodwill gesture, Pakistan also opened all border crossings with Afghanistan for pedestrians closed due to COVID-19 in March during Abdullah's visit.

Pakistan also announced a new relaxed visa policy for Afghan nationals with long-term multiple visas to Afghan students, traders, patients, families and tourists. Serious patients will now get a visa on arrival at Torkham, the major crossing between the two countries in northwestern Pakistan.

Experts in Pakistan are of the opinion that Abdullah's visit was a major step to remove the mistrust between the two neighbors which they believe is a key for Pakistan cooperation in the peace process.

Juma Khan Sufi, a Pakistani expert of Afghan affairs, said Abdullah's visit marked the resumption of high level visits of the two sides as tense relationship has also affected such high level communications.

Sufi, who has authored several books on Afghanistan, said, "I think Abdullah's visit was very important for boosting the trust between the two countries. This will also encourage Pakistan to play its vital role in the peace process."

Abdullah also met Pakistan's senior religious scholars in Islamabad on Wednesday and secured their support for the peace process. Enditem
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A new coin may be minted to celebrate Northern Ireland's centenary next year, it has emerged.

Speaking at Northern Ireland questions in the House of Commons yesterday, NIO minister Robin Walker indicated that he was "very happy" to explore the idea.

Answering a question from DUP MP Ian Paisley, Mr Walker said: "I am sure that the honourable Gentleman and I are in firm agreement that we should mark this historical centenary in a way that facilitates national recognition and international awareness.

"Specifically regarding a commemorative coin, this is a matter for the Treasury. It is a proposal that I have shared with ministerial colleagues previously, and I am very happy to explore it with them further."

He added that the Government will be promoting Northern Ireland around the world during the centenary year.

Send us your design for an NI coin to digital.editorial@belfasttelegraph.co.uk

Mr Paisley told MPs he had already written to the Treasury proposing "a commemorative celebratory coin for Northern Ireland in its 100th anniversary year".

Mr Walker reminded MPs that in August, the Prime Minister visited Northern Ireland, "announcing the establishment of a centenary forum and centenary historical advisory panel, ensuring that we listen to diverse perspectives as we create a bold and ambitious centenary programme".

He added: "As well as being the centenary of Northern Ireland, it is also the centenary of the United Kingdom as we know it today. We are committed to delivering our programme that will allow the public to engage with the history of the centenary while supporting Northern Ireland businesses, its tourism industry and promoting Northern Ireland on the world stage."

What would you like to see on a Northern Ireland centenary coin? Send us your design to digital.editorial@belfasttelegraph.co.uk
With 14 Microsoft Gold competencies, Planet just backed this up with an Advanced Specialization in Adoption and Change Management from Microsoft Corporation. Microsoft indicates that this level of achievement is extremely rare among Microsoft Partners worldwide.

Our clients benefit from our skilled approach to cloud technology rollouts which include the process of measuring success through adoption and use. We invested in this approach years ago and COVID has magnified the necessity of rapid adoption coupled with targeted learning. It is exciting for us to have our unique approach and skills validated by Microsoft, says Jennifer Mason, Vice President Workforce Transformation and Learning, Planet Technologies.

Planet is delivering for clients across the country during the pandemic with Teams and Azure cloud modernization efforts for applications and datacenter workloads. Bolstered through the creation of Planets Evolve 365 business unit four years ago whose single focus is customer success through learning, measuring, and organizational development, Planets OCM and Adoption support model has proven to be an essential part of any technology modernization effort.

About Planet Technologies

Launched in 1997, Planet Technologies is the leading provider of Microsoft consulting services across the United States. With a strong presence in the public sector, Planet also supports education, health and commercial organizations. We are in the business of trust and most of our clients are repeat customers - our greatest achievement. Planet has been awarded Microsoft Cloud Partner of the Year, Security Partner of the Year, Federal Partner of the Year, State and Local Government Partner of the Year, and Windows Partner of the Year.
VICKI is an IoT self-checkout solution for regulated retail, powered by artificial intelligence, with secure data storage and verification

VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / Chemesis International Inc. (CSE:CSI)(OTC:CADMF)(FRA:CWAA) (the "Company" or "Chemesis"), announces its initial deployment of its VICKI Artificial Intelligence Self-Checkout Solutions at Atlanta International Airport, the world's most efficient and busiest airport, with over 110 million passengers in 2019.[1]

In collaboration with Business Traveler Services, Inc., a minority-owned airport concessionaire of Atlanta International Airport, Chemesis International with its partner ViaTouch Media Inc, has launched branded CBD automated retail stores in Concourses A & D. Under our retail brand, Green Spirit Rx, which deploys unattended retail stores, offering consumers CBD products and Personal Protective Equipment.

Through advanced technology leveraging artificial intelligence, video and voice education, creates a strong consumer engagement experience. Green Spirit Rx brings the highest quality, certified brands to market with the ability for consumers to benefit while they are on the go with travel size personal care packages. The VICKI was initially deployed prior to the pandemic, serving as a proof of concept for the Company's unattended route to market. Chemesis and its management team are now confident in the ability to scale this retail channel throughout airports, shopping centres, arenas, and other high traffic areas.

"At Chemesis International, we believe a safe, informed consumer experience gives our consumers the ability to interact and transact in a manner in which they prefer to build a relationship with our brands, in this category. The on the go consumer depends on proximity and ease of transaction as a requirement to capture their share of wallet. We believe we are best positioned to bring our brands closer to the consumer under this platform", says Josh Rosenberg, President of Chemesis.

"Business Traveler Services was the first company to understand the demand for CBD products within the travel sector. It established the first CBD retail store in any US Airport at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Chemesis has proven they understand our consumers, represent certified products, and leveraging the right technology to meet our consumer needs. Early results support our decision to expand this relationship and we look forward to being a preferred outlet for our travelers", says Anita Leopold, partner of Business Traveler Services.

For more information regarding VICKI, please visit, https://getvicki.com

On Behalf of The Board of Directors

Josh Rosenberg

President

About Chemesis International Inc.

Chemesis International Inc. is a vertically integrated U.S. Multi-State and Multi-National Operator.

The Company focuses on prudent capital allocation to ensure it maintains a first mover advantage as it enters new markets and is committed to differentiate itself by deploying resources in markets with major opportunities. Chemesis leverages a portfolio of brands to develop strong brand loyalty and customer retention. The Company is focused on scalable growth within its business operations; this includes its retail strategy of coalescing dispensary and alternate routes to market.

Chemesis and its team are committed to building a strong unattended and attended retail model for the cannabis market across the United States and Puerto Rico. Chemesis' retail brand, Green Spirit Rx, will continue to provide consumers with industry-leading technology, the most sought-after products and education.

Investor Relations:

ir@chemesis.com

1 (604) 398-3378

Forward-Looking Information: This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws relating to statements regarding the Company's business, products and future of the Company's business, its product offerings and plans for sales and marketing, including with respect to the Company's expectations regarding its supply and distribution arrangements, ability to realize benefits from its recent contractual arrangements, its plans to continue to develop dispensaries in Puerto Rico, and its ability to obtain licenses in additional jurisdictions. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information 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 information. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results, performance and developments to differ materially from those contemplated by these statements depending on, among other things, the risks that the Company's products and plan will vary from those stated in this news release and the Company may not be able to carry out its business plans as expected, including, but not limited to, in relation to executing on and maintaining its supply and distribution arrangements and recent contractual arrangements, in relation to developing dispensaries in Puerto Rico, and its ability to obtain licenses in additional jurisdictions. Except as required by law, the Company expressly disclaims any obligation and does not intend to update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information in this news release. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct and makes no reference to profitability based on sales reported. The statements in this news release are made as of the date of this release.

The CSE has not reviewed, approved or disapproved the content of this press release

[1] The Busiest Airport in the World 2018

SOURCE: Chemesis International Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/608666/Chemesis-International-Inc-Announces-Initial-Deployment-of-its-VICKI-Artificial-Intelligence-Self-Checkout-Solution-at-Atlanta-International-Airport
A downtown Houston hospital this week sued Harris County, claiming the government owes millions of dollars in payments for inmates medical treatments.

St. Joseph Medical Center on Monday sought court intervention in a payment dispute stemming as far back as 2012. The hospital asked for owed payments as well as an order barring the Harris County Sheriffs Office from bringing inmates to the hospital, at least until it agrees to pay for medical services in a way that complies with state law.

Even after several demands for payment and years of negotiations, the County has yet to pay a single bill, the hospitals attorneys said in the lawsuit.

The Harris County Attorneys Office, which represents the county in lawsuits, denied wrongdoing in a written statement. The sheriffs office, which polices in unincorporated areas of the county, also oversees operations at the Harris County Jail.

"The Harris County Attorneys Office has been engaged in talks with St. Joseph Medical Center for over the past several months concerning the allegations made in their lawsuit. Based on records provided and our opinion of the law we have determined that neither the county nor the sheriff are liable for these charges. We plan to continue discussions with the hospital's representatives to determine whether we can resolve the issues raised by the center in a way that benefits all parties. Our office will file a response with the court at the appropriate time."

The hospitals lawyers took their lawsuit a step further. They also questioned whether the hospital should be providing services to the jail at all.

Texas law requires the county pay for medical services provided to jail inmates, and that it be done through taxpayer-funded services, they said. Locally, that would be Harris Health System, the countys public health arm that owns and manages two hospitals and several clinics.

samantha.ketterer@chron.com
- Kalonzo Musyoka said Kambas living in Taita Taveta should respect the native communities in the county

- Kalonzo said Kambas should leave the gubernatorial seat for the locals, the Taitas and Tavetas and settle for other positions

- An advocate who is also eyeing the governorship in the Coastal-county reprimanded the Wiper leader for his remarks

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Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has asked Kambas living in Taita Taveta to leave the Taita Taveta gubernatorial seat for the Taita and Taveta communities in the county.

Kalonzo Musyoka said Kambas in Taita Taveta should respect the local communities of the region. Photo: Kalonzo Musyoka.

Source: UGC

Kalonzo said he would not allow Kambas leaving in the Granton Samboja led-county to go for the governorship at the expense of the native communities in the region.

Speaking to residents of Wudanyi and Mwatete towns during his just-concluded Coastal tour, the former vice president said locals from Eastern Kenya should instead go for senatorial, parliamentary and deputy-governor positions.

"I will not allow a Kamba from Kitui, Machakos or Makueni to vie for the gubernatorial seat in Taita-Taveta yet Taitas and Tavetas are the indigenous communities here," he said.

Kalonzo Musyoka said Kambas should go for other seats but leave the governorship to the Taitas and Tavetas. Photo: Kalonzo Musyoka.

Source: Facebook

His sentiments did not, however, sit well with a Taita-Taveta-based advocate Bernard Mwinzi who has already expressed interest in the governorship in the 2022 elections.

He said not only were Kalonzo's utterances reckless, but they were also offensive and threatened to tear apart the unity of the country.

This came at a time when Kalonzo is looking to succeed President Uhuru Kenyatta in the 2022 presidential race.

In an interview with a local TV station, Kalonzo said the time for "President Kalonzo Musyoka" was at hand and reiterated he was fully cognizant of what Kenya needed and what was ailing it politically.

Kalonzo Musyoka said he was vying for the presidency in 2022. Photo: Kalonzo Musyoka.

Source: UGC

The former vice president confidently stated any politician with hopes of vying for the top seat will either run against him or end up joining his team.

He also insisted he was the Ukambani kingpin because he had never misled his people and had also earned their trust.

"I am the de facto Ukambani kingpin. These things are earned. It comes with the ability of people to trust you," Kalonzo said.

As was earlier reported by TUKO.co.ke, blogger Dennis Itumbi caused a stir online after claiming Jubilee Party had settled on Kalonzo as its 2022 flag bearer with Baringo Senator Gideon Moi as his running mate.

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This is me coming to you with a heavy heart. My friends left after I got cancer - Esther Nyambura/TUKO TV.

Source: TUKO.co.ke
Bengaluru, Oct 1 : As the video clip about former Congress president Rahul Gandhi falling into a street side bush on the Yamuna Expressway on the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border went viral, Karnataka Congress leaders took to Twitter on Thursday to condemn the attack and detention of Rahul and Priyanka.

Karnataka Leader of Opposition, Siddaramaiah said, "I condemn the attack on Shri. @RahulGandhi in Uttar Pradesh".

In a tongue and cheek remark, Siddaramaiah said that a wise man once said, 'Violence is the last refuge of the incompetent.' And tagged to @narendramodi and @myogiadityanath, have proved that they draw inspiration from violence.

He asserted that he strongly condemned the arrest of Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in Uttar Pradesh.

"@myogiadityanath, will have to pay a price for his high handedness," he said on Twitter.

KPCC president D.K. Shivakumar also condemned the attack and questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi - "Why is the PM not speaking about Beti Bachao now?," he questioned angrily.

"Under what law has he (Rahul) been detained? Why are he and Priyanka Gandhi not being allowed to meet the victim's family?" Shivakumar asked.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
A convicted terror plotter has told a court that he attacked a prison officer while wearing a fake suicide vest because he wanted to move to a different jail.

Brusthom Ziamani, 25, denied that the incident at HMP Whitemoor in January was a terror attack or that he and a fellow inmate wanted to kill their victim.

He and Baz Hockton, 26, are accused of attempting to murder a prison officer on 9 January with homemade weapons, while allegedly shouting Allahu akbar and wearing fake bomb vests.

Giving evidence at the Old Bailey on Thursday, Mr Ziamani said he had made three complaints to prison officials about his treatment, alleging that his Quran had been left on the floor during a prison search and derogatory remarks were made about his Islamic clothing by officers.

He told jurors the last straw was when he was told he could not send a photograph of himself to his parents because he was a terrorist prisoner.

I decided that I want to come out this jail, I cant stay here no longer, he added. I decided to attack an officer.

It wasnt the right idea to do that but thats how I felt at the time.

Mr Ziamani, who had been jailed in 2015 after planning to behead a British soldier, said he thought authorities would have to remove him from HMP Whitemoor if he vandalised property or assaulted a prison officer to a certain seriousness.

Asked by a defence barrister whether he could have just pushed or shoved a member of staff, the defendant claimed that a minor altercation would have resulted in segregation rather than being taken out of the Cambridgeshire jail.

Earlier in the day, the court was told that prison officials had no record of written complaints made by Mr Ziamani.

Jurors have been shown handwritten material from his prison cell that discussed becoming a martyr, but the defendant said the term was not always about being killed in battle [but] being a righteous person.

Mr Ziamani denied that his aim was to be killed during the attack at HMP Whitemoor, or that he intended to murder prison officer Neil Trundle or do him really serious harm.

The court previously heard that he and Mr Hockton attempted to lure the officer into a cupboard and kill him using improvised weapons.

Mr Trundle shouted for help as the pair started to rain down blows on his head, neck and chest, the jury was told.

The defendants then allegedly attacked two prison officers and a nurse who ran to the aid of their colleague, before being subdued.

Prosecutor Annabel Darlow QC said that when another prison officer tried to intervene, Mr Ziamani opened up his jacket to reveal a fake suicide vest and shouted: Ive got a bomb.

Mr Hockton was also wearing a fake suicide vest, made of wires and plastic cartons covered in fabric.

Ms Darlow said the defendants had carefully planned and executed the attack using several weapons they made inside the prison, including a homemade shank, lumps of twisted metal covered with fabric grips and two makeshift metal stabbing implements.

She added: Its the prosecutions case that the defendants were motivated to commit the attack by extremist Islamic ideology. It was a terrorist attack.

The prosecutor said Mr Trundle, a prison officer for 14 years, was known to be kind and helpful and had no negative dealings with either defendant in the past.

He was treated in hospital for lacerations to his ear, scalp, shoulder and arm.

The court heard that Mr Ziamani had been jailed for a terror offence and that Mr Hockton had converted to Islam while in prison, and that his faith had been corrupted into extremism and he had been radicalised.

On Thursday, Mr Ziamani said his parents were Jehovahs Witnesses but that he had converted to Islam in April 2014 and was thrown out of his family home.

He said he had been introduced to the religion by members of criminal gangs that he was involved in at the time, and then became part of the al-Muhajiroun Islamist network.

Mr Ziamani said he had met its leader, Anjem Choudary, three or four times and had joined the groups religious study sessions and events.

When the Islamic State was first declared there were loads of videos coming out so we would sit and watch it, he added.

The defendant admitted that he obtained an SD card containing loads and loads of talks from different Islamic scholars through unofficial channels in prison.

He told the jury that because he could speak Arabic and French, he would translate the videos into English and write transcriptions for other inmates including Mr Hockton.

I translated it for him to get him to read for personal study, Mr Ziamani said.

He said he had first met his co-defendant in 2013, outside prison, before they met again at HMP Whitemoor in July last year.

I was close to him a lot, Mr Ziamani told jurors, saying they would see each other on a daily basis even while being kept on separate wings.

Mr Ziamani, who left school with no qualifications, said he and Mr Hockton hoped to start a painting and decorating business together after being released from prison.

Both men deny charges of attempted murder but Mr Hockton had admitted an alternative charge of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

Mr Ziamani admits charges of assault against another prison officer and a nurse. The trial continues.
(Newser)  The image is haunting, depicting a gaunt-faced man with a familiar beard, staring ahead lifelessly. The right eye is bulging and appears disfigured from an unseen wound. Some experts believe the man is Abraham Lincoln, captured hours after the nation's 16th president succumbed to an assassin's bullet on April 15, 1865, in a heretofore unknown photo of incalculable emotional and historic value. Others dismiss the mere possibility. The original ambrotype image is locked away in an Illinois safe deposit box, the subject of court fights and accusations of robbery and, on Sunday, a Discovery network documentary that attempts to unravel the mystery behind it. If The Lost Lincoln even airs. As of Thursday, it wasn't entirely sure it would. The man who currently owns the photo has asked a California judge to stop it, a lawsuit Discovery dismisses in court papers as "patently frivolous." The AP has the fascinating backstory:

"In the world of authenticating, this is like finding the Holy Grail," said Whitny Braun, a California investigator whose effort to determine if the photo is real is traced in the documentary.

Braun learned about the image two years ago when she was cold-called by Jerald Spolar, the Illinois dentist who claims ownership. She didn't believe the story. At first glance, the face looks differentthinner, smootherthan the image most Americans are familiar with.

After looking into it for two years, Braun said she's 99% convinced the photo is genuine.

Discovery, meanwhile, is putting its reputation on the line. The network is either telling the world of a historic treasure or producing the 2020 version of The Mystery of Al Capone's Vaults, Geraldo Rivera's laughingstock 1986 special that revealed an empty safe.

story continues below

As the story goes, the image was captured by Henry Ulke, a professional photographer who lived across the street from Washington's Ford's Theatre in the boardinghouse where Lincoln was brought after being shot. Lincoln died early the next morning, and Ulke supposedly took the picture in secret before the president's body was taken to the White House.

It was an ambrotype, a photo created via a process in which a glass negative is placed on a dark background. That alone has led some experts to doubt the picture's authenticity, since ambrotypes were largely out of style by the mid-1860s.

The photo was quietly given to the descendants of Nancy Hanks, Lincoln's mother, in Illinois, and by the 1980s it was in the possession of Margaret Hanks. Before she died in 1986, she sold a collection of artifacts to Larry Davis, an auctioneer and Civil War buff from Quincy, Ill. They included the ambrotype, affixed with a Post-it note saying "Cousin Abe."

Davis alleges in court papers that his ex-wife stole the ambrotype and sold it to Spolar. The dentist disputes that he bought stolen property, said lawyer Bill Holbrow III, and has spent several years trying to prove the photo is genuine.

As for how Braun arrived at her conclusion, she consulted with facial recognition experts, medical experts, a ballistics expert, Lincoln scholars, and descendants of Ulke. The facial experts said the man in the image had a slight scar under the lip consistent with one Lincoln had. Ulke's descendants explained how Henry Ulke specialized in "death photos," particularly ones with the eyes left open.

But critics point out inconsistencies: For instance, in one of the last photographs of Lincoln taken alive, his once-full beard was wispy, almost a goatee. But the man in the image has a full beard. Braun said there's evidence that the photo was retouched to add more facial hair and to color the cheeks, making them appear smoother.

If the photo is proven genuine, there's no telling what it would be worth on the open market. In 2011, billionaire William Koch paid $2.3 million for the only known photograph of the Wild West gunfighter Billy the Kid.

Speaking of money, Spolar is also suing Braun, saying she violated a nondisclosure agreement made when he showed her a copy of the image, and that she's attempting to profit off somebody else's property. Braun declined comment on the action.

(Read more Abraham Lincoln stories.)
Black theaters across the country will receive a significant financial boost thanks to a multimillion-dollar program announced today by the Billie Holiday Theater, a Black-led artistic institution in Brooklyn.

The initiative, known as The Black Seed, is described as the first national strategic plan to provide financial support for Black theaters across the country. It is backed by a $5 million lead gift from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, which, according to a news release, is the largest-ever one-time investment in Black theater.

The Black Seed stands on the shoulders of Black theater leaders who came before and centered the work by us, for us, about us and near us, Indira Etwaroo, the executive artistic director of the Billie Holiday Theater, who conceptualized and worked with others to create the initiative, said in a statement.

The Billie Holiday Theater was founded in 1972 in response to the civil rights and Black Arts movements. The plan will be administered by that theater in collaboration with three other Black-led artistic institutions: the Craft Institute in Massachusetts, Plowshares Theater Company in Detroit, and WACO Theater Center in Los Angeles. The group will award up to 50 one- to three-year grants to Black theaters in the coming months, in amounts ranging from $30,000 to $300,000.
Anglican leader warns Christians against treating church as politics, saying malicious things online

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Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, head of the global Anglican Communion, recently warned Christians against treating church as politics and engaging in bad behavior on social media.

Archbishop Welby preached a sermon on Sunday at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., which focused on how refugees should be treated.

During his remarks, Welby said that the Kingdom of God is an autocracy of the purest love, and Christians do not choose to be its citizens; its ruler called us out of helpless darkness.

After noting that our role is to proclaim, our joy is to celebrate, Welby went on to warn that this is not always how we show ourselves.

Treating church life as politics and our way of doing things as superior, we engage in malicious comment through social media, we are insincere, we are cruel, he said. We have been transformed by the grace of God alone, yet we behave as though we then had to wage a civil war in Gods church so that our views may prevail.

It is no wonder that in the Global North we see numbers decline in church attendance and affiliation, for the rule of love has become the rule of self, he added.

We do not as Christians resolve problems by their over-simplification, that is the broad road with much good company of those who we can find who will agree with whatever view each of us chooses.

The path of the cross, of following the crucified God in His journey, is one that tells us to embrace the complexity of suffering and walk alongside those with whom we disagree passionately, bearing our crosses.

Pastor and author Timothy Keller voiced a similar concern about partisanship overtaking churches in a series of controversial tweets posted earlier this month.

In his social media posts, Keller denounced the notion that a Christian has to vote for Donald Trump or has to vote for Joe Biden, with the theologian citing a liberty of conscience.

The Bible binds my conscience to care for the poor, but it does not tell me the best practical way to do it, tweeted Keller at the time. Christians cannot say to other Christians no Christian can vote for or every Christian must vote for [] unless you can find a Biblical command to that effect.

In response to some critics of his thread on Twitter, Keller clarified that his comments on conscience and voting should not misinterpreted as him supporting things like legalized abortion.

The Bible tells me that abortion is a sin and great evil, but it doesnt tell me the best way to decrease or end abortion in this country, nor which policies are most effective, added Keller.

Earlier this week, the Barna Group released a report which found that 74% of surveyed Protestant pastors were concerned that the presidential election will impact their church.

When asking pastors if they were worried about the political impact, 33% of respondents said they were very concerned, while 41% said somewhat concerned.

During his sermon on Sunday, Welby also focused on the issue of refugees, noting that around 75 million people were presently displaced, calling it the greatest movement of people in human history.

The causes of movement vary. Poverty, ambition, fear, war all play a large part. Some flee modern slavery. Some run from family or clan disorder, stated Welby.

They flee for any and every reason. They may have illusions about their destination and their reasons for fleeing may be more or less understandable. Yet they flee.

In light of calls to better treat refugees, Welby declared that Christians cannot surround our love with barbed wire so that only those with the password can be its recipients.

When we see the refugee and those who fear them we must not compromise with false simplicities, but we do channel the abundant grace of God.

His comments come as President Trump has overseen major reductions in the annual refugee resettlement cap in the U.S. His administration lowered the cap to 18,000 for fiscal year 2020 (Oct. 1, 2019  Sept. 30, 2020), the lowest it has been since the program was created in 1980. Trump has yet to make a proposal for the number of refugees that could be resettled in the U.S. for the new fiscal year.
Kyle Rittenhouse

Kenosha gunman, Kyle Rittenhouse Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

The Trump administration directed federal law enforcement officials to note that Kyle Rittenhouse, the Illinois teen charged with killing two protesters in Kenosha, Wis., sought "to help defend small business owners," according to a leaked memo obtained by NBC News.

The internal Department of Homeland Security (DHS) talking points reportedly instructed law enforcement officials to make comments "sympathetic" to Rittenhouse, who was charged with first-degree intentional homicide, first-degree reckless homicide, reckless endangerment and illegal possession of a dangerous weapon.

The leaked DHS talking points urged officials to make public comments noting that Rittenhouse "took his rifle to the scene of the rioting to help defend small business owners."

"Kyle was seen being chased and attacked by rioters before allegedly shooting three of them, killing two," the memo said. "Subsequent video has emerged reportedly showing that there were 'multiple gunmen' involved, which would lend more credence to the self-defense claims."

The document proceded to urge officials to say they would not comment on an ongoing probe. But it provided the following language: "What I will say is that Rittenhouse, just like everyone else in America, is innocent until proven guilty and deserves a fair trial based on all the facts, not just the ones that support a certain narrative. This is why we try the accused in the court of law, not the star chamber of public opinion."

The memo also echoed talking points from the Trump campaign.

"This is also why we need to stop the violence in our cities. Chaotic and violent situations lead to chaotic, violent and tragic outcomes," the memo says. "Everyone needs law and order."

Another set of DHS talking points said the media was "incorrectly labeling the group Patriot Prayer as racists after clashes erupted between the group and protesters in Portland," according to the report. It is unclear whether the talking points originated within DHS or the White House.

Story continues

Former DHS officials, including those who worked in Republican administrations, told NBC News that it was "unusual" for department officials to publicly make comments regarding people and groups under ongoing investigations.

"It is as unprecedented as it is wrong," Peter Boogaard, a former DHS spokesman under President Barack Obama, told the outlet.

Rittenhouse, who attended a Trump rally and posted social media messages praising the president and police, traveled to Kenosha from Illinois in August with an assault rifle. There is "immense" video footage of his interactions with protesters. Attorneys for the 17 year old claim that he acted in self-defense.

Trump defended Rittenhouse after the shooting, arguing that video showed "he was trying to get away" from protesters, who allegedly "very violently attacked him."

"He probably would have been killed," the president said.

But the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel noted that by the time of the moment in the video to which Trump was referring, "the teen had already shot and killed one protester."

Trump's Republican allies have likewise made "misleading" claims defending Rittenhouse. Fox News host Tucker Carlson openly praised Rittenhouse for deciding to "maintain order when no one else would." A Christian fundraising site raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for his legal defense.

Trump has repeatedly refused to denounce right-wing violence while hyping dubious claims about violence by antifa, which is not an organized group. On Tuesday, Trump was asked at his first presidential debate against Joe Biden to condemn white supremacists and far-right groups, like the Proud Boys, involved in violence at protests.

"The Proud Boys: Stand back, and stand by," Trump said. "But I'll tell you what, somebody's got to do something about antifa and the left, because this is not a right-wing problem."

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A social media star in China has died after her ex-husband allegedly doused her in petrol and set her on fire while she was recording a live-streaming show.

The former partner reportedly broke into the star's home armed with a cleaver and petrol before attacking her in front of her family members in mid-September.

The video blogger, known as Lamu, sustained burns on 90 per cent of her body and was left fighting for her life for more than two weeks, reports said. She was pronounced dead by doctors last night.

In the last video featuring Chinese video blogger Lamu, she was lip-syncing to a traditional Tibetan song to express her best wishes to her fans. Lamu was pronounced dead last night

Police have detained Lamu's husband, but his motives remain unclear.

Some reports from Chinese media suggested that the suspect was seeking revenge on Lamu because she had initiated their divorce due to domestic violence. The couple had two young sons.

Police are yet to comment on the claims.

Lamu was a popular Tibetan video blogger who lived in the mountainous prefecture of Aba in western China's Sichuan Province.

Through her account on Douyin, the Chinese version of Tik Tok, she had amassed more than 782,000 followers and 6.3million 'likes' before being assaulted.

Some of Lamu's videos documented her life in rural China. Others showed her lip-syncing to songs she liked.

Lamu was a popular Tibetan video blogger who lived in the mountainous prefecture of Aba in western China's Sichuan Province. She used her video account to document her rural lifestyle

In the last video featuring Lamu, uploaded on September 14, she was performing to a traditional Tibetan song to express her best wishes to her fans.

Latter on the day, the star's regular live broadcast suddenly had a black screen before her fans heard screams, reported Beijing Youth Daily.

Her account did not have any activity for two days before Lamu's sister, Zhuoma, posted about the attack.

Zhuoma made a desperate plea for financial help and begged the public to help save Lamu. Good Samaritans donated around one million yuan (114,038) to the family.

The incident took place at Lamu's home in the mountainous prefecture of Aba in western China's Sichuan Province. The file picture above shows a temple complex in Aba

Lamu was declared dead by doctors at around 9pm on Wednesday after treatment had failed, a police statement said today.

It stated that Lamu, identified by police by her surname A, was assaulted by her ex-husband, Tang, at around 8.50pm on September 14.

She was rushed to the People's Hospital in the Aba Prefecture and transferred to the People's Hospital of the Sichuan Hospital on September 17 for better medical attention.

Police said they detained Tang on suspicion of intentional homicide on the night of September 14. They added that they were carrying out further investigation.

Lamu's family said they had spent more than 60 per cent of the donations on her treatment and would return the rest of the money to the fund-raising platform.
A man (28) has been arrested on charges of sexually assaulting a woman (45) and then trying to kill her by strangulation, the police said.

The incident occurred at Melagarh, which is around 55 kilometres from Tripuras capital Agartala, on Wednesday afternoon.

The accused, identified as Maman Hussein, a daily-wage labour, would soon be produced in court, the police said.

The survivor had gone to her brothers house, which is situated around one and a km away from her home. On her way back home, Hussein, a local resident, forcibly took her to an adjacent paddy field and allegedly sexually assaulted her.

The survivor had a narrow escape, as Hussein tried to strangulate her following the sexual assault, the police said.

Hussein was unknown to the rape survivor, who was released by local hospital authorities after a preliminary medical check-up, the police added.

Her family members have registered a complaint against Hussein.

The police have booked Hussein under sections 342 (wrongful confinement), 376 (rape), 382 (theft after preparation made for causing death), and 307 (attempt to murder) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

We arrested the accused (Hussein) on Wednesday. He will be produced in a court today (Thursday). We are investigating the case, said Sukanta Bhattacharya, officer in-charge, Melagarh police station.

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Amid the widespread outrage over the alleged gang-rape and murder of a 19-year-old Dalit woman in Hathras and her forcible cremation subsequently, scores of Ghaziabad lawyers on Thursday demanded imposition of President Rule in Uttar Pradesh. The lawyers demanded the dismissal of the Yogi Adityanath government and imposition of President Rule, saying that the gang-rape of a Dalit woman and her brutalization amid a spate of crime against women in Uttar Pradesh has tarnished the image of the country and would flatten its progress graph.

The lawyers sought imposition of President Rule in a memorandum addressed to President Ram Nath Kovind that they gave to District Magistrate Ajay Shankar Pandey. The agitating lawyers reached the district collectorate in a march from Civil Court under the banner of Adhivakta Sangharsh Samiti.

During the march, the lawyers raised anti-government slogans and burnt effigies of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, accusing him of having failed in controlling the soaring crime graph against women in the state.

Addressing reporters after leading the lawyers march, the advocates body convener Nahar Singh Yadav said the Yogi government has totally failed in controlling the crime in the state, more so against women.

And the police, in turn, try to eliminate evidence in haste to hide the soaring crime graph as happened in the case of the gang-rape of the Dalit woman in Hathras who was forcibly cremated overnight by police, said Yadav. The gang-rape of the Dalit woman and her brutalization amid a spate of crime against women in Uttar Pradesh has tarnished the image of the country and would flatten its progress graph, he added.

The advocates body also Samiti demanded an impartial probe in the case under the supervision of a retired judge of the high court or the Supreme Court. The case should be transferred in the fast track court of any other state, said Yadav, adding the government must provide protection to the rape victims family.

The lawyers body also demanded a government job, a house in Delhi and a compensation of Rs 2 crore for the Hathras gang-rape victims family. In addition to the demonstration by lawyers, a Balmiki Samaj outfit held a protest march from Balmiki Park of Navyug Market to the collectorate and raised slogans against the Yogi government and blocked the traffic at many crucial traffic junctions.

They condemned the alleged forcible funeral of the rape victim by the Hathras police without her parents consent and demanded the termination of the Hathras police officials responsible for this. The Balmiki Samaj also called for the suspension of the sanitisation and cleaning work in Ghaziabad on October 3, city president of Balmiki outfit, Anil Kalyani said.
Chennai, Oct 1 : The Madras High Court on Thursday commented that the holy 'Bharathabhoomi' (India) has now turned into "a land of rapists" where a rape occurs every 15 minutes.

The court was hearing a case relating to migrant labour filed by advocate A.P. Suryaprakasam. At that point the advocate pointed to the rape of a migrant worker from Assam in Tamil Nadu's Tiruppur district.

"I had pleaded with the court to provide shelter and care for the affected woman and also to direct the Director General of Police to set up a special investigation team headed by a Deputy Inspector General. I had also prayed to the court to direct the government to provide her financial assistance under the victims' compensation scheme," Suryaprakasam told IANS.

Suryaprakasam told the court that sexual predators are targeting women from vulnerable sections of the society such as migrant workers, unsound minds, mentality challenged girls, the poor and the downtrodden.

Such predators use the victim's disadvantaged position in society like poverty and lack of support due to which they are not able to get justice.

He said in the case of affected migrant workers, they would go back to their native place and the culprits would roam around free targeting their next victim, Suryaprakasam said.

While granting all his prayers, the court observed that "Bharathabhoomi", a holy land, has now become a land of rapists, where a rape occurs every 15 minutes.

Five persons had allegedly raped a 22-year-old migrant worker from Assam in Tiruppur district.

The victim was staying in Coimbatore and had approached a person called Rajeshkumar in Tiruppur for a job.

The latter promised her work in Tiruppur in a garment unit and asked her to come to his residence.

Later after hunting for a job unsuccessfully, Rajeshkumar is said to have asked his brother Raju to drop her in the bus stand.

However, Raju took her to an isolated place where four of his friends were already there and they raped the woman.

Meanwhile the police have arrested three persons in connection with the case and are hunting for the remaining three accused.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
London: The Russian group accused of meddling in the 2016 US election has posed as an independent news outlet to target right-wing social media users ahead of this year's vote, two people familiar with an FBI probe into the activity told Reuters.

The latest operation centred around a pseudo media organisation called the Newsroom for American and European Based Citizens (NAEBC), which was run by people associated with the St. Petersburg-based Internet Research Agency, the sources said.

Collection of Instagram posts, which Facebook, the owner of Instagram, yanked off the site in October after concluding that they originated from Russia. Credit:AP

US prosecutors say the agency played a key role in Russian efforts to sway the 2016 election in favour of President Donald Trump, and Facebook and Twitter exposed a fake left-wing media outlet in September which they said was run by people connected to the organisation.

NAEBC and its activity, which have not been previously reported, now show that Russian attempts to influence US voters ahead of the 2020 election have targeted both sides of the political divide.
The name 'International Coffee Day' was first used by the Southern Food and Beverage Museum, which organised a press conference on 3 October, 2009 to announce the first New Orleans Coffee Festival

International Coffee Day is celebrated every year on 1 October to celebrate the coffee sector's diversity, quality and passion. The day is an opportunity for coffee lovers to share their adoration for the beverage and support millions of farmers around the world whose livelihood depends on the crop.

The International Coffee Day is organised by the International Coffee Organisation (ICO), the member states of which had decided in March 2014 to create a day of celebration for coffee lovers around the world.

ICO is the main intergovernmental organisation for coffee, that helps tackle the challenges faced by the coffee sector around the world through international cooperation. ICO represents 98 percent of world's coffee production and 67 percent of world's consumption.

Set up in London in 1963, the ICO aims to strengthen the global coffee sector and promote its sustainable expansion. It has announced that the focus of International Coffee Day 2020 is 'Coffee's Next Generation', a global initiative targeting talented and motivated young people and entrepreneurs in the coffee sector.

According to ICO, the COVID-19 pandemic has created an unprecedented situation in the coffee sector, negatively impacting both supply and demand. The initiative is an opportunity to not only promote sustainable coffee practices, but also to raise awareness for the plight of coffee growers.

The name 'International Coffee Day' was first used by the Southern Food and Beverage Museum, which organised a press conference on 3 October, 2009 to announce the first New Orleans Coffee Festival. However, the International Coffee Organisation first celebrated the day in China in 1997, Taiwan in 2009 and Nepal first celebrated the National Coffee Day on 17 November, 2005.

According to a report published in Harvard Health, a November 2015 study published in the scientific journal Circulation found that coffee consumption was associated with an 8 to 15 percent reduction in the risk of death. Coffee drinkers also may have reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, a few types of cancers and cirrhosis.

Furthermore, studies have also pointed out that caffeine can boost a person's metabolic rate and increase fat burning in the body as well. It can also help people feel less tired and increase energy levels because it contains the stimulant caffeine, which is the most commonly consumed psychoactive substance in the world.
YANGON, Myanmar - A Sweden-based organization that promotes democracy and assists in organizing elections said Thursday it is not responsible for a smartphone applications inclusion of a controversial term describing the ethnic background of at least two candidates in Myanmars upcoming elections.

The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, or International IDEA, said in a statement that the content in the mVoter2020 mobile application is the sole responsibility of Myanmars Union Election Commission. The UEC along with the Asia Foundation and STEP Democracy, an EU-funded project implemented by International IDEA in Myanmar, launched the app and its companion website on Tuesday. It is intended to provide voters with information about candidates and the voting process.

The controversy involves the inclusion of the categories race, religion and parents race for candidates in the Nov. 8 polls. In at least two cases, it identifies candidates as Bengali or part-Bengali, a term used by the government for Rohingya, a Muslim ethnic minority that faces widespread prejudice in Buddhist-dominated Myanmar.

Justice for Myanmar, a civil society organization, on Wednesday called international organizations and donors to the mVoter2020 project complicit in the erasure of Rohingya identity and urged the immediate removal of the race and religion categories from the app.

Instead of providing access to much-needed, accurate information for voters, the myVoter2020 app risks inflaming ethnic and religious nationalism during the election, it said in a statement. The publicizing of candidate race and religion would be unacceptable to voters in donor countries, and is unacceptable in Myanmar.

Justice for Myanmar was formed in April as an activist investigative news venture, and its website was temporarily blocked at the end of August after it published details of the militarys business involvements.

One of the candidates identified as Bengali, Dus Muhammed, also known as Aye Win, of the Human Rights and Democracy Party said We were not informed and didnt have a chance to argue not to use the Bengali label about us in the app. Its like an abuse of our rights.

Prejudice against the Rohingya runs deep in Myanmar, and has led in recent years to mass violence directed against them. The most notorious involved a brutal counterinsurgency campaign by security forces in 2017 that drove an estimated 740,000 to seek refuge in neighbouring Bangladesh. The army-directed violence including the burning of villages, rape and murder. International courts are seeking to determine whether genocide was committed.

The Rohingya, who live mostly in the western state of Rakhine, face both official and social discrimination. Many members of other ethnic groups consider them to be illegal immigrants from South Asia, which is why they are called Bengali. Most are denied citizenship and many basic rights, even those whose families have lived in Myanmar for generations. Several Rohingya who sought to be candidates in the election were disqualified.

International IDEA said the information in the app was submitted by candidates in accordance with candidate registration requirements ... which includes categorizations of candidates by religion and ethnic affiliation (often referred to as race in the Myanmar context).

It said it understood the sensitivity of using ethnic and religious affiliations, especially in an electoral context, but that numerous jurisdictions around the world ... include ethnic identifiers in their electoral systems and practices, often with the aim to ensure fair and equitable representation and inclusion.

The group said it would continue to advocate for reforming the relevant provisions with due regard to international human rights norms and democratic standards (and) to work with all election stakeholders, including the UEC, towards inclusive elections in line with international human rights and democracy standards.

Requests to the the UEC and the U.S.-based Asia Foundation for comment received no response.

-

Peck reported from Bangkok.
A rating action announced on September 29 by rating agency CARE on Shapoorji Pallonji and Company Private Ltd (SPCPL) is indicative of the stress developing on the companys cash flows. The scenario has worsened in the wake of COVID-19 and due to the ongoing dispute with Tatas, the agency has noted.

What did CARE do?

The rating agency has downgraded the ratings on two instruments issued by SPCPL. Rating on the proposed non-convertible debenture (NCD ) issue has been cut to CARE A- from CARE A+ while rating on commercial paper has been cut to CARE A2+ from CARE A1+, the agency said in a note on September 29.

What are the reasons?

There are two reasons cited for the rating action. One, the non-repayment of Rs 200 crore that was due to Union Bank of India on September 25. Two, the company has already applied for a one-time restructuring (OTR) process.

Has SPCPL really defaulted?

Has the company defaulted on its payment obligations in the typical sense? Not really. According to a CARE official who spoke to Moneycontrol, this is not a default from the point of rating agencys default recognition norms.

The non-repayment is despite the company having availability of liquid funds in the form of free bank balances of Rs.530 crore (excluding encumbered FDs of Rs 140 crore) and unused CP lines of Rs.400 crore at standalone level.

Could it have paid the dues?

The firm would have paid the dues in the absence of OTR since it had availability of liquid funds. It didnt pay because the OTR process is initiated, said the official requesting anonymity citing the sensitivity of the matter. Had it been a typical default, the rating would have been downgraded to D, the official said.

What is the outlook?

That said, the agency has taken note of the severe impact on the cash flows of the company.

SPCPL, being in the construction and real estate sector, has been severely affected due to COVID. Cashflows from operations and asset monetisations have been adversely impacted, the agency said in its note.

CARE Ratings further has noted that promoter fund raising aggregating Rs.11,000 crore which was initially planned to be completed by end of Q1FY2021 and subsequently spilled over to Q2FY2021 is unsuccessful till date.

This is despite signing a definitive agreement towards fund raising with an FII in the first week of September 2020, for Tranche 1 of Rs 3,750 crore.

What is the impact due to Tata Sons dispute?

SPCPL has attributed the delay in the promoter funding closure to COVID and most recently to the stay order issued by the Supreme Court on pledging the SP groups shareholding in Tata Sons Private Limited until the next hearing on October 28, 2020, CARE has said.

This unexpected development led to further delay in the promoter funding amidst ongoing COVID-19 pandemic crisis, thereby severely affecting the cash flows of Shapoorji Pallonji Group (SP Group), CARE said.

What needs to be watched is whether the company will meet its repayment to other lenders.

How big is the MF exposure?

According to CNBC TV18, mutual funds have a total of Rs 1,232 crore exposure to SPCPL. Of this, Franklin Templeton MF has the highest exposure of Rs 668 crore to SPCPL, while ICICI Prudential Mutual fund has Rs 213 crore. Seven other funds have exposure of less than Rs 100 crore each.

ICICI Prudential MF has clarified that it's exposure is to SP JUHi rated AAA by ICRA and AAA by India Ratings. SP JUHi is a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) formed for the expansion of 64.58 km of the Jammu-Udhampur section in Jammu and Kashmir to four lanes on a build, operate and transfer annuity basis of NHAI, the company said.

Resolution of dispute with Tatas key

The rating agency has highlighted the deterioration in financial flexibility enjoyed by the company in the past. Timely resolution with Tata group will be key for SPCPL, CARE has warned.

The promoters of Shapoorji Pallonji group are the single largest stakeholder of Tata Sons Private Limited with an 18.37 percent stake. While in the past the SP Group monetised this holding by pledging it, the recent effort has seen a roadblock as mentioned earlier in this document, CARE has said.

Consequent to these developments CARE Ratings believes that there is a significant deterioration in the financial flexibility enjoyed by the group under the given circumstances, the agency said, adding, Timely resolution of ongoing dispute with TSPL will be critical for SPCPL to meet its debt obligations as well as pending equity commitments towards its subsidiaries and various group ventures.

Positives

CARE, however, has acknowledged the progress made by SPCPL in the reduction of its off balance sheet exposure in the form of financial and performance guarantees given to its subsidiaries and group companies since the last review. However, its achievement has remained below the anticipated levels, the agency noted in its report.
Following the cancellation of the Independence Day parade and a ban on gathering of more than 50 persons by the Lagos State Government, the police have warned against people gathering in the state for protests and rallies.

However, the Coalition for Revolution (CORE), the organisers of the #RevolutionNow protest, says its mass action will hold as planned, despite the police announcement.

The position of the police was contained in a press release by the police spokesperson in Lagos, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Wednesday.

He said the Commissioner of Police in the state, Hakeem Odumosu, has instructed officers to prevent any unlawful societies, under whatever disguise, from staging rallies or protests within the state on Thursday.

The police boss read the Riot Act today during a security meeting with the area commanders, divisional police officers and heads of department at the conference room, state headquarters, GRA, Ikeja on Wednesday.

While the Commissioner of Police announced the cancellation by the Lagos State Government of the ceremonial parade to commemorate the Nigerias 60th Independence Anniversary, he warned that the command will not allow any gatherings, rallies or protests against the sovereignty of Nigeria in the state, he said in the statement.

He said the commissioner further urged parents and guardians to warn their children and wards not to attend any rallies, protests or be mobilised to wage war against the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, or else they (parents or guardians) of any youth arrested for such act would be prosecuted, the spokesperson added.

The police appealed to the general public to be law-abiding, desist from violence and any act that is capable of disrupting the sovereignty of Nigeria.

He added that the police had been charged to maintain law and order in the state and repel any force seeking Nigerias disintegration.

Protest to Proceed

The Coalition for Revolution (CORE), the organisers of the #RevolutionNow protest, says its mass action will hold as planned, despite the police statement.

The group formed by a former presidential candidate and SaharaReporters publisher, Omoyele Sowore, is demanding improved healthcare and security, good governance, transparency and accountability of public officers in Nigeria.

CORE had earlier called on Nigerians to participate in the October 1 protest in state capitals across the country by 8 a.m.

The demonstration, according to the group, is to demand the reversal of anti-people policies implemented by the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration.

Amongst its demands, CORE clamoured for the reversal of the hike in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from N148 to N151, the resignation of President Muhammadu Buhari and the sack of all service chiefs in the country due to their failure to end the Boko Haram insurgency.

Others include respect for the rule of law and an end to the victimisation of critics and extra-judicial killings by law enforcement officers.

Meanwhile, in a statement signed by the Conveners, Baba Aye and Gbenga Komolafe, on Wednesday night, the group said the police in some states had issued threats against the planned demonstration.

Security forces had disrupted previous protests by the group and arrested some protesters.

We want to make it clear that we remain undeterred and the protest cannot be stopped. When in our national anthem it is said the Labour of our heroes past shall never be in vain we remember clearly that the labour of real heroes of independence was struggle: protests that were not deterred by the colonialists repressive tactics.

We salute Michael Imoudu, Raji Abdallah, Mokwugo Okoye, Margaret Ekpo, Mallam Aminu Kano, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, Nduka Eze, Baba Omojola, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, Wahab Goodluck.

These and the thousands of working-class class people and youths who took to the streets and downed tools in the workplaces are the heroes of what was won 60 years ago but which was bastardized by the thieving elites who took over power.

They also urged Nigerians to come out en masse to reclaim their dignity and win a better life.

We call on all Nigerians not to succumb to intimidation. Our peaceful protests against the elites corruption, our state of poverty and underdevelopment of the country shall proceed as planned, the statement read.
Orange Shirt Day, an annual project held on Sept. 30, spreads awareness of Canadian residential schools while also honouring residential school survivors and their families, spreading the message that Every Child Matters.

The Orange Shirt Days are a remembrance for the indigenous residential schools, for the survivors, said Debbie Sipkema, co-founder of Dufferin County Cultural Resource Centre (DCCRC).

In May of 2013 former residential school students and families were brought together for the St. Joseph Mission (SJM) Residential School (1891-1981) Commemoration Project and Reunion events that would create the annual Orange Shirt Day. The name of the day is inspired by Phyllis Webstad, who at the age of six, attended her first day at St. Joseph Mission wearing an orange shirt bought by her grandmother. The shirt was taken by the school. The date of Sept. 30 marks the time of year that children were taken from their homes.

It is an opportunity to create meaningful discussion about the effects of Residential Schools and the legacy they have left behind, writes the Orange Shirt Day organization on their website. A discussion all Canadians can tune into and create bridges with each other for reconciliation. A day for survivors to be reaffirmed that they matter and so do those that have been affected. Every Child Matters, even if they are an adult, from now on.

Intergenerational trauma has been one of the effects left behind by residential schools and, starting this year, Sipkema says will be the focus of the project and fundraising locally.

When were looking at residential schools, the children were taken at such a young age and so they were never taught the proper skills for taking care of children because they never got that when they grew up. Some of them had horrible things happen, and its repeated again through the families, said Sipkema.

Proper counselling, Sipkema says, is a necessity for healing as well as centres such as healing circles.

Its through culture that healing is found and a lot of these intergenerational people havent had that opportunity. I think that needs to be done and the funding needs to be provided, said Sipkema.

She added, Healing circles are where you have elders and counsellors and those that are affected and its an opportunity for people to get together and work through a lot of the issues that they may or may not have experienced.

As it has with many organizations, COVID-19 has impacted and limited the amount of fundraising DCCRC has been able to do. Sipkema says that now theyve had to rely on government funding that doesnt always cover the costs.

It is through funding that were going to be able to get the supports needed for the Indigenous community, especially those suffering with intergenerational trauma, said Sipkema. Its the only way were going to them the support that they require.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla., Sept. 30, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- A new partnership between the State University System of Florida, the National Security Innovation Network and the Florida Defense Alliance, an organization within Enterprise Florida, gives students real-world opportunities to develop innovative solutions to national security challenges. Additionally, the partnership will strengthen the talent pipeline for government and industry.

NSIN is a program of the U.S. Department of Defense and a problem-solving network that adapts to the emerging needs of those working to preserve national security.

This agreement, the first collaboration for NSIN with a state university system, will encourage and promote defense liaisons, applied research, mentorships, and student/faculty engagement within the defense and national security arena.

"This Memorandum of Understanding is an excellent opportunity for our 12 institutions to support an industry critical to the state of Florida," said Syd Kitson, chair of the Board of Governors of the State University System of Florida. "By preparing our graduates for the types of issues and real-world problems facing the defense industry, we build a dynamic talent pipeline for Florida that fosters innovation and problem-solving."

Among student projects that are underway include:

Helping the U.S. Army 44th Medical Brigade at Ft. Bragg build an app to more accurately track medications ( University of Central Florida );

); Developing streamlined communication tools for squadron commanders to access mission-critical data effectively (Florida Polytechnic University);

Developing machine learning models that use data from sonobuoys to improve the Navy's ability to track submarines ( Florida Atlantic University ).

NSIN will hire a University Program Director who will report to the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, the first program director ever assigned to an HBCU institution.

The agreement also formalizes and expands existing FDA relationships while addressing one of the Governor's goals for military and defense organizations: to create a ready workforce that fills critical defense industry jobs and supports our installations with equipment and solutions.

"The signing of this MOU and ground-breaking program is great news for Florida," said Jamal Sowell, Florida Secretary of Commerce and Enterprise Florida President & CEO. "Florida's military and defense industry is a key economic driver for the state. Enterprise Florida and the FDA will continue to create opportunities, working with our partners, to support Florida's military installations and strengthen Florida bases."

UCF Board of Trustees Chair Beverly Seay played an important role establishing the partnership as the NSIN southeast region's senior advisor.

Contact: Renee' Fargason, State University System of Florida, 850-245-9724, [email protected]

SOURCE State University System of Florida

Related Links

https://www.flbog.edu/


01.10.2020 LISTEN

The International Watch Foundation (IWF) worked with the National Cyber Security Centre in the Ghanaian government, and UNICEF Ghana, to get the vital portal up and running.

A new online portal is addressing the critical need to protect children in Ghana as reports of child sexual abuse material in the country increase rapidly.

The Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) has today (October 1) launched a new reporting portal giving people in Ghana a way to report child sexual abuse material should they stumble across it online.

The IWF is the UK-based international charity responsible for finding and removing images and videos of child sexual abuse from the internet.

Once reported through the new portal, images and videos will be assessed by trained IWF analysts in the UK.

If they are found to contain child sexual abuse, they can be blocked and removed from the internet.

The Portal is available in two languages  French and English, and will later be available in Arabic and Spanish. It can be accessed at https://report.iwf.org.uk/gh .

The IWF worked with the National Cyber Security Centre in the Ghanaian government, and UNICEF Ghana, to get the vital portal up and running.

Anne-Claire Dufay, Country Representative for UNICEF Ghana, said: As more children gain access to the internet, the risk of experiencing violence, abuse and exploitation online has become an unfortunate reality.

The number of reports related to child sexual abuse material being accessed, distributed or produced from Ghana has been increasing rapidly over the past years, from 750 in 2016 to 7,000 in 2019.

In this context, the Government of Ghana is collaborating with the Internet Watch Foundation to establish a reporting mechanism for Child Sexual Abuse Imagery Online.

UNICEF welcomes this important development, which is very timely. In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, many of our children spend significant time online to access education, play and connect with their friends and family.

Ms Dufay said the portal is more important now than ever.

She added: In an increasingly digitalized era, the need to ensure a safe and protective environment for children has never been so critical.

Susie Hargreaves OBE, Chief Executive of the IWF, welcomed the creation of the portal, saying it will help make a real difference to online safety the world over.

Ms Hargreaves said: This new online portal is absolutely vital. It allows people in Ghana to report things straight to our brilliant, trained analysts who will be able to assess them and make sure the internet is kept safe.

This helps us make sure the internet is a positive place for everyone the world over, and that criminals have nowhere to hide or to share this criminal material. Ultimately, it will help make children safer. That is why this work is so important.

This is the 43rd IWF Portal, and the 20th to be set up in Africa. It is the 25th Global Fund sponsored Portal to launch

IWF Portals are available in 17 languages (Arabic, English, French, Hindi, Indonesian, Kazakh, Lingala, Malaysian Bahasa, Mongolian, Nepali, Pashto, Portuguese, Spanish, Swahili, Ukrainian, Urdu, Wolof).
Join the worldwide Magnificat family by subscribing now: Your prayer life will never be the same!

Bartolome de las Casas

1484-1566

It is winter, 1517. A priest in the prime of life, tanned into a permanent brown by his years in the sun of the Caribbean, stands before the young king of his native Spain, Charles I, also the Holy Roman Emperor. Charles is intelligent, broad-minded, unsentimental, a devout Roman Catholic committed to the good of his subjects, whether Flemish, German, Austrian, Spanish, or the Indians of the New World.

"I can hardly believe that Spanish men would be capable of such wickedness, Father," says the king, blushing.

"Your majesty, I saw it with my own eyes."

"We are bringing them the true faith, which will set them free."

"We are making slaves of them to line our furs with gold."

"Our settlers say otherwise."

"They have reason to say so."

"And you, Father Bartolome, do you have no reason to speak ill of our settlers? They say you hate them more than you love the Indians."

"I won't justify myself," says the priest. It is his turn to blush. "Let that be between me and God. What I say is true."

The young king considers. He is not cruel. "All right, Father. What do you propose?"

A true peace

So began the lifelong quest of Bartolome de las Casas to bring Christ to the Indians, along with means of life to protect them from the less scrupulous Spanish settlers, and from the more warlike tribes of their own lands. We shouldn't forget why Cortez with his few hundred men could conquer the Aztec empire so quickly. The Aztecs were hated by the peoples they had thrust beneath them. Think of the daily stain and stench of human blood, when a prisoner of the Aztecs would have his still-beating heart knifed out of his chest in honor of the sun god.

Las Casas' attempts to build self-sustaining agricultural centers took various forms. At first, when he saw that the Indian men could not bear the hard physical labor that farming with iron tools required, he recommended importing slaves from Africa, as prisoners of a just war. But he would change his mind about that, once he saw how badly the blacks were treated in turn. Don't make light of it when a man's conscience is wrung. People change their minds, sure, when it profits them, when it earns them a seat at the best table, or when it hurts their enemies and costs them nothing. It is rare that a man of authority will change his mind to his own harm, opening himself to scorn, slander, enmity, and isolation.

Las Casas thought that Charles might send Spanish peasants to Venezuela, furnishing them with tools for farming. There they would work with the Indians and avert the excesses of the large encomiendas  the plantations. That project fell to ruin when natives from the interior descended upon the new villages, burned them to the ground, stole the goods, and killed the Europeans. Las Casas still concluded that the Spanish were to blame.

He had his greatest success with a mission in the heart of Guatemala, what had been called the Land of War. The governor had promised not to set up any encomiendas there, if Las Casas could bring the Indians to the faith. He and his fellow Dominicans taught the Indians by means of Indians, merchants who had been baptized and who dared to enter that wilderness, singing hymns in the native tongues. With Spaniards, Las Casas was ruthless, but with the Indians he was forbearing and patient. When two notable chiefs were baptized, more Dominicans followed in Las Casas' steps, and the Land of War became known as Verapaz, True Peace. So it is known to this day.

Battle of the friars

Much of man's sorry history is the strife of bad men: Octavian and Antony, Alexander and Darius. But the strife of holy men?

Following in the wake of Cortez came Franciscan friars, led by Father Toribio de Benavente, called "Motolinia" or "Poor Man" by the natives who saw him for the first time, shoeless and in his brown cloak. "It is the first word I have learned in this language," said he, and to make sure he wouldn't forget it, he took it as his name. The Indians were astonished to see Cortez the conqueror, whom they saw as a god, kneeling before such a man. But they grew to love Motolinia profoundly. By his own testimony, he baptized four hundred thousand Indians. When he died, the Indians mobbed his bier to tear off bits of clothing as relics.

Motolinia was, like many holy men who live among the poor, patient with the rich. He was unwilling to destroy the estates they had built at great risk and expense, even if they had employed Indians as slaves. Las Casas was, like other holy men who live among the poor, impatient with the rich and eager to enforce severities to atone for their grievous sins, even at the cost of destruction. Motolinia would baptize all who desired it, even if they didn't understand more than the outlines of the faith. Las Casas would not baptize anyone unless he was sure that the conversion was of the intellect as well as of the will.

In 1555, the elderly son of Francis attacked the elderly son of Dominic, urging that his old enemy be confined to a monastery for the good of his soul. It wasn't that the Franciscan was blind to Spanish sins, or to Indian sins, for that matter. Motolinia had numbered Spanish oppression as one of the ten plagues of the New World. But he and his fellows favored baptizing as many Indians as possible, particularly when they saw them dying of smallpox and other diseases. The sacrament must come first, they thought, and needful but slow instruction must come later. So Motolinia rebuked Las Casas when he refused to baptize a certain Indian: "How is this, Father, all this zeal and love that you say you have for the Indians is exhausted in loading them down and going around writing about Spaniards, and vexing the Indians"  encouraging them in rebellion?

Las Casas had insisted that the Indians were fully rational beings, not to be baptized en masse or without proper preparation, and he had won that point with Pope Paul III in Sublimis Deus (1537). The pope wrote to uphold natural human rights, to outlaw slavery, and to ameliorate abuses in the colonies. That encyclical, and the tireless efforts of Las Casas, had prevailed with Charles and the Spanish court, resulting in the so-called New Laws (1542), laws that horrified the Spanish settlers, because in their recognition of Indian rights they put in jeopardy the whole colonial world.

The conflict was not settled in a day. It could not be, given the vast distance between Spain and the colonies, the uncertainty of the reports reaching Spain, and the lack of means to enforce the royal will. The remarkable thing is that there was such a conflict at all. We find many an American advocate for Indian rights in the 19th century, and many an abolitionist inveighing against slavery from the comfort of a Massachusetts rectory. Bartolome de las Casas preceded them by three hundred years, and he did more than write and talk.

Man of fire

The most influential of the works of Las Casas was his Brief Account of the Destruction of the Indies (1552), which concentrates in a nearly unbearable narrative his experiences among the Spanish settlers, along with much hearsay, hotly disputed by other Spaniards both lay and clerical. Here is a typically fiery passage:

"Thus the Spaniards blinded with the luster of their gold, deserted by God, and given over to a reprobate sense, not understanding (or at least not willing to do so) that the cause of the Indians is most just, as well by the law of Nature, as the divine and human, they by force of arms destroying them, hacking them in pieces, and turning them out of their own confines and dominions, nor considering how unjust those violences and tyrannies are, wherewith they have afflicted these poor creatures, they still contrive to raise new Wars against them: Nay they conceive, and by word and writing testify, that those victories they have obtained against those innocents to their ruin are granted them by God himself."

This work was popular among the English and Dutch colonialists, and formed the basis of the so-called Black Legend, still in force when Americans spoiled for war against Spain and her satellites in Mexico and Cuba.

But it's all to the credit of Spain that her best men and women did not dismiss Las Casas as a madman. They too wanted what he wanted, to fulfill the commission of Christ, to make disciples  not slaves, but disciples just as they were  of all nations. In this enterprise, as compromised by human sin as it sometimes is, they succeeded where other conquerors never bothered to try. An uneasy conscience is far better than none.
In this file photo taken on July 30, 2020, a woman rides her bicycle past the Shell Pernis site in Rotterdam. Energy major Shell unleashed a major restructuring plan on September 30, 2020, to combat plunging oil prices driven by the coronavirus pandemic, warning it will also spark more asset writedowns in the third quarter. Royal Dutch Shell said in a statement that it would axe between 7,000 and 9,000 positions by the end of 2022, of which 1,500 staff have already agreed to take voluntary redundancy this year. The job cuts would amount to roughly 10 percent of Shell's total global workforce of 80,000 staff across more than 70 countries.(Robin UTRECHT / ANP / AFP)

Royal Dutch Shell said in a statement that it would axe between 7,000 and 9,000 positions by the end of 2022, of which 1,500 staff have already agreed to take voluntary redundancy this year.

The job cuts would amount to roughly 10 percent of Shell's total global workforce of 80,000 staff across more than 70 countries.

The Anglo-Dutch giant aims to generate annual savings of between $2.0 billion and $2.5 billion (1.7-2.1 billion euros) under the plan, which also includes other measures to streamline the business in response to the fallout from the Covid-19 crisis.

Those savings will partially contribute to the $3.0-$4.0 billion efficiency drive that was announced in March and runs to 2021, it added.

Shell had already flagged in July that job cuts were in the pipeline after posting a colossal $18.1-billion second-quarter net loss as coronavirus savaged the world oil market.

It warned on Wednesday that it would suffer more post-tax impairment charges of between $1.0-$1.5 billion in third quarter earnings, which will be published at the end of October.

"This is an extremely tough process. It is very painful to know that you will end up saying goodbye to quite a few good people," said Chief Executive Ben van Beurden in an interview on the company website.

"But we are doing this because we have to, because it is the right thing to do for the future of the company.

"We have to be a simpler, more streamlined, more competitive organisation that is more nimble and able to respond to customers."

Shell's main British rival BP is axing around 10,000 jobs or 15 percent of its total workforce in response to the virus turmoil.
The leader of Ministry of Jesus Christ International at Torkanu, Pastor David Tagbor Dumakor, his son and a Kenkey seller have been allegedly assaulted by personnel of the Ghana Armed Forces.

Information available to this portal has it that this barbaric incident was perpetrated by more than 30 armed and uniformed personnel at about 3am on Tuesday, September 29, 2020.

According to the Kenkey seller, Madam Webu Mercy who was assaulted first, she was preparing her kenkey as usual when the personnel came in a large number, demanding to know the whereabouts of the pastor.

"I was preparing kenkey at dawn when the soldiers emerged from nowhere and demanded I show them the whereabout of Pastor Tagbor," she revealed to this portal.

Madam Webu further stated that the alleged personnel took her phone and then subjected her to severe beatings and inhumane treatment; after which they went and broke into the pastor's apartment, assaulted him and his son, Innocent Dumakor.

The pastor's wife was however, left out of the beatings although she was in the room.

Akpene Sewornu, wife of the pastor disclosed that, her husband together with their son, Innocent Dumakor were sleeping when they heard a knock on the door with the voice of some men asking of Pastor Dumakor.

"My husband was sleeping in a different room with his son when the soldiers broke into their room and started assaulting them without any provocation," the wife narrated.

The pastor, his son and the Kenkey seller all sustained bruises on their skins. The Kenkey seller sustained a huge mark on her right buttock.

An eyewitness, Nana Albert however, said the soldiers fired several gunshots in the air to scare away many residents from coming out of their rooms despite the victims' shouting for help.

"We heard the victims shouting for help but we were afraid to approach them," he was quoted as saying.

According to Nana Bright, the pastor was taken away by the soldiers.

Assemblyman for the Torkanu Electoral Area, Mr. Maxwell Amewovo, when contacted, said he is yet to know what actually led to the military assault on the pastor and his son as well as the Kenkey seller.

--- // Contributor on ModernGhana
Enrique Tarrio is serving as the Florida state director of a political support group Latinos for Trump, DailyMail.com can reveal

A spokesman for the Trump campaign told DailyMail.com that neither Tarrio nor his Latinos for Trump are affiliated with the presidents official Latinos for Trump Coalition

Tarrio is the national chairman of the Proud Boys, the 'white supremacist' group who Donald Trump told to 'stand back and stand by' at Tuesday's debate

DailyMail.com can reveal that Tarrio, ran for congress as a Republican earlier this year

Tarrio, 36, has been pictured with Trump confidant Roger Stone who is a Proud Boys member, the president's son Don Jr, and GOP Senator Ted Cruz

Cruz co-sponsored a Senate resolution based on a petition written by Tarrio to designate the left wing group Antifa as a 'domestic terrorist organization'

Tarrio posted a selfie of him and Donald Trump Jr. online with the caption: 'Blurry but at least we spoke about the rampant censorship of conservatives'.

Tarrio is a Cuban American from Miami who was promoted from president of his city's Proud Boys chapter to become the group's national chairman in 2018

The leader of the Proud Boys, the 'white supremacist' group at the center of the presidential debate furor, is a state director of Latinos for Trump and ran for Congress as a Republican, DailyMail.com can reveal.

Donald Trump told the Proud Boys to 'stand back and stand by' after he was asked to denounce their alleged white supremacist views during the presidential debate Tuesday night.

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Afterwards Trump's son and spokesman both tried to downplay the comment, calling it a 'misspeak'. The president backpedaled on Wednesday telling reporters he had never heard of the group.

DailyMail.com can reveal the Proud Boys national chairman, Enrique Tarrio, is close to the Republican party, having been pictured with the president's son Don Jr. and currently serving as the Florida state director of the political support group Latinos for Trump.

But a spokesman for the Trump campaign told DailyMail.com that neither Tarrio nor his Latinos for Trump group are affiliated with the presidents official reelection campaign group the Latinos for Trump Coalition.

National chairman of the Proud Boys, Enrique Tarrio has ties with the GOP and was previously pictured with Donald Trump Jr. He posted this photo online captioned, 'Blurry but at least we spoke about the rampant censorship of conservatives'

DailyMail.com can reveal that Tarrio is serving as the Florida state director of the political support group Latinos for Trump

Donald Trump told the Proud Boys to 'stand back and stand by' after he was asked to denounce their alleged white supremacist views during the presidential debate Tuesday night

Tarrio, 36, has been pictured with Trump confidant Roger Stone who is a Proud Boys member. He's seen to the left of Stone in a photo posted to Instagram

Click here to resize this module

Tarrio is pictured with Republican senator Ted Cruz, who co-sponsored a Senate resolution based on a petition written by Tarrio to designate the anarchist left wing group Antifa as a 'domestic terrorist organization'

The individual you wrote about here is not affiliated with the Trump Campaign, our Latinos for Trump Coalition, or the Trump Family, the spokesman said. He is also not the state director of our coalition and is not on our advisory board.

Tarrio, 36, has been pictured with Trump confidant Roger Stone who is a Proud Boys member, the president's son Don Jr., Florida governor Rick Scott and senior Republican senator Ted Cruz, who co-sponsored a Senate resolution based on a petition written by Tarrio to designate the anarchist left wing group Antifa as a 'domestic terrorist organization'.

Trump lent his support to the proposal, which ultimately failed, tweeting in August last year, 'Major consideration is being given to naming ANTIFA an 'ORGANIZATION OF TERROR'.'

Tarrio posted a selfie of him and Donald Trump Jr. online with the caption: 'Blurry but at least we spoke about the rampant censorship of conservatives'.

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He's also been pictured with former White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders and Republican Rep. Dan Crenshaw.

Tarrio was also caught on camera at the infamous 2017 white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, wearing body armor and a badge with the insignia of the 'Fraternal Order of Alt-Knights', a paramilitary wing of the Proud Boys.

He claims he left before violence erupted at the march.

The business owner and Miami-born son of Cuban immigrants was promoted from president of his city's Proud Boys chapter to become the group's national chairman in November 2018.

Tarrio, who runs a security equipment firm, claims the Proud Boys has a 'similar atmosphere' to his Cuban upbringing and in a 2018 interview described his Miami chapter as 'a frat with a political lean.'

He told the Miami New Times his parents became conservative after fleeing Castro's Cuba.

'My house, at like 7 o'clock in the morning, there's like 20 people in my house, talking about politics, roasting each other, just making fun of each other. I was brought up in that environment, so that kind of brings me into the f***ery that comes along with being a Proud Boy,' he said.

Despite supporting Trump's criticism of 'lawless' Democrat-run cities, as a younger man Tarrio had several run-ins with the law.

Age 20 in 2004, he was sentenced to three years probation for stealing a motorcycle worth $55,000, and in 2013, he was sentenced to 16 months in federal prison for his part in a scheme to sell stolen diabetic test strip kits.

Tarrio was pictued at a Trump rally in 2019 as the president and First Lady spoke to a Venezuelan American community at Florida International University in Miami

Stone, Trump's confidant and self-proclaimed dirty trickster, is pictured with Tarrio as he holds up the white power symbol

Enrique Tarrio is pictured with former White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders

Tarrio previously ran for congress this year and is pictured with Florida Governor Rick Scott

Tarrio posted for a photo with Republican Rep. Dan Crenshaw and posted the photo online with the caption, '3 eyes...2 patriots,'

Tarrio has previously been banned from Twitter for breaking the site's rules on 'violent extremist groups'. He has slammed Twitter's decision and says he denounces hate and racism.

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But Tarrio has posted messages on Proud Boys online groups including: 'This [website] to get filled up with Proud Boys, not no f**got a** photogs!' and 'B**ch n****r f**got tra**y. Stress test 3,' according to screenshots obtained by the Miami New Times.

He has also described transexual women as 'it' on Facebook, and posted a picture of Trump with the words 'grab her by the p**sy' and his own caption: 'Only way to grab it..if you ask me.'

Other members have posted messages praising the Holocaust and mass murderers in their private group chats, the paper reported.

The Cuban-American, who ran as a Republican to represent Florida's 27th Congressional District this year but withdrew before the party's primary in August, said he wrote his slurs as a joke and to promote free speech.

'We are not a white-power group, and I am not a victim,' he told the New Times. 'I just think I should be able to say what I want and to express my support of Trump without being called a Nazi.'

Tarrio appears on the Latino for Trump website as the state director for Florida. Tarrio said that Trump 'didn't condemn us. He didn't promote us either. What ''stand by'' means is stand by me'

In 206, Tarrio posted this photo just before the election supporting Donald Trump's vulgar remarks that he grabs women by the 'pu**y'. n: 'Only way to grab it..if you ask me,' he wrote

Tarrio posted this in 2017 which as women if they would be more willing to donate $20 to Trump's campaign or walk past a group of Black men while wearing a sundress

The Proud Boys was originally started as a joke by Vice Media co-founder Gavin McInnes in 2016, naming it after the Aladdin song, 'Proud of Your Boy.'

The organization grew from gatherings of men in New York dive bars frustrated with politically correct culture, that 'usually consist of drinking, fighting, and reading aloud from Pat Buchanan's Death of the West,' according to McInnes.

As its numbers swelled to an estimated 6,000 members, the group became known for its 'Western chauvinism'  a mix of misogynist and anti-Muslim rhetoric, and for violent clashes with anti-fascist groups in New York and the Pacific North West.

In 2018 the FBI sent a warning to Washington police departments calling the Proud Boys an 'extremist group' that was recruiting in their areas and that members 'have contributed to the recent escalation of violence at political rallies held on college campuses, and in cities like Charlottesville, Virginia, Portland, Oregon, and Seattle, Washington.'

An Oregon bureau chief later backtracked, saying they did not mean to label the group as extremist, and a spokeswoman said, 'Our focus is not on membership in particular groups but on individuals who commit violence and criminal activity.'

But violence has followed the Proud Boys across the country for years.

The unofficial uniform of the Proud Boys is a black and yellow Fred Perry polo shirt  which is, bizarrely, a clothing choice they share with many in the gay BDSM community who often wear similar shirts at fetish-fueled sex parties.

Gay men's sex shops sell rubber and latex polo shirts in the style of Fred Perry shirts, some with the same color scheme of black with yellow stripes.

'The standard Proud Boy polo shirt, from Fred Perry, is a massive thing in the US gay BDSM community,' a member of the community told DailyMail.com. 'It's something like a code, and is worn often and regularly, at gatherings. It will likely be curtailed now, due to the Proud Boys now having co-opted the shirts and logos.'

The Cuban-American ran as a Republican to represent Florida's 27th Congressional District this year but withdrew before the party's primary in August

Roger Stone is picture with a group of the Proud Boys as they hold up the 'white power' symbol with their hands. The unofficial uniform of the Proud Boys is a black and yellow Fred Perry polo shirt  which is, bizarrely, a clothing choice they share with many in the gay BDSM community

Seven members pleaded guilty to charges including riot, disorderly conduct and attempted assault after fights broke out with protesters at a Proud Boys event in New York in 2018.

After clashing with the far-left anarchist group Antifa, Proud Boys members Maxwell Hare, 27, and John Kinsman, 40, were convicted of attempted gang assault, attempted assault and riot in August last year and sentenced to four years in prison.

On Wednesday Portland Police arrested Proud Boys member Alan Swinney after he allegedly pulled a real gun on Black Lives Matter protesters, shot them with a paintball gun and sprayed them with mace.

When Trump failed to denounce the group and instead told them to 'stand by' during the presidential debate on Tuesday, some Proud Boys members interpreted it as a rallying cry to fight Antifa, with others even making $40 t-shirts emblazoned with the phrase 'Proud Boys Standing By'.

The group's unofficial uniform is a black and yellow Fred Perry polo shirt.

Membership of the Proud Boys is reportedly broken into four degrees. Men become first degree members by simply declaring: 'I am a western chauvinist, and I refuse to apologize for creating the modern world,'  a pledge Roger Stone has made on camera.

To reach the second degree, members must demonstrate 'adrenaline control' in a bizarre ritual where they are beaten until they yell the names of five breakfast cereals.

Following the shout out several members of the group appeared to pledge their allegiance to the president. One social media account connected to the organization even appeared to made 'Stand back. Stand by' part of a new logo

A third degree member must get a Proud Boys tattoo and give up watching pornography and masturbating.

Fourth degree members suffer some hardship including being fired from their job for being a Proud Boy, being publicly 'doxxed' or identified as a member, or engaging in violence with Antifa.

The Unite the Right neo-Nazi rally in Charlottesville was organized by Proud Boy second degree member Jason Kessler.

After the rally, Kessler was expelled by then-president McInnes in an attempt to distance the group from white supremacism.

Though both McInnes and Tarrio have denounced racism, the former has a long history of incendiary public comments.

When a New York Press reporter asked him what he thought about his neighbors in his Williamsburg, New York, neighborhood in 2002, he said: 'Well, at least they're not n*****s or Puerto Ricans. At least they're white.'

The Proud Boys was originally started as a joke by Vice Media co-founder Gavin McInnes (pictured) in 2016, naming it after the Aladdin song, 'Proud of Your Boy'

The 2017 Unite the Right neo-Nazi rally in Charlottesville was organized by Proud Boy second degree member Jason Kessler. After the rally, Kessler was expelled by then-president McInnes in an attempt to distance the group from white supremacism

On his show, McInnes has made several offensive comments including calling women 'dumb'. 'Maybe the reason I'm sexist is because women are dumb. No, I'm just kidding, ladies. But you do tend to not thrive in certain areas  like writing,' he said in 2017.

McInnes has also said 'Palestinians are stupid. Muslims are stupid. And the only thing they really respect is violence and being tough,' and has referred to transgender people as 'gender n*****s' and 'stupid lunatics.'

A spokesman for Tarrio released a statement Wednesday saying the Proud Boys has 'longstanding regulations prohibiting racist, white supremacist or violent activity' adding that 'we do not care what color you are or what your background is ... if you love America ... we consider you a brother.'

Tarrio himself later said Trump wasn't endorsing Proud Boys with what he said.

He told NBC Miami, 'He didn't condemn us. He didn't promote us either. What 'stand by' means is stand by me.'

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He added: 'The president was asked a very poignant question. He was asked about white supremacy and he was asked to disavow white supremacy. Biden cut him off and said our name.'
Faculty members of Banaras Hindu University (BHU), belonging to the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category, are disappointed with the varsity denying them their constitutional right of representation in higher education. As many as 203 teaching posts for OBCs went missing" with nil recruitments in the category whereas appointments for positions in the general category were enhanced by the university, revealed a data by BHU in reply to an RTI filed by Nagpur-based activist Sanjay Thul.

The OBC teachers demanded clarification from the university on the increase in number of appointments for the general category. Teachers and scholars belonging to the reserved category also wrote to the National Commission of Backward Classes (NCBC) stating that OBCs were facing injustice in appointment to teaching posts in BHU despite Varanasi being the constituency of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, an OBC leader. The RTI analysed and sent by the teachers to the commission was also shared with the media.

203 Posts Missing"

According to information obtained by Thul, out of 568 positions across teaching categories for the backward classes, 203 posts were missing" or had been removed. The data showed shortfall of 203 in OBC appointments whereas 137 appointments were falling short for the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) category. However, extra 340 posts were made available for the general category.

As many as 36 out of the 61 sanctioned posts for Professors, 93 out of 135 sanctioned posts for Associate Professors, and 74 out of 372 sanctioned posts for Assistant Professors had also been removed, the teachers said in their letter to the commission, elaborating further on the numbers. The number of OBC seats filled (224) was added to the number of vacant seats (141) and the sum (365) was subtracted from the sanctioned 568 seats to find 203 seats missing for the category.

Similarly, the teachers also calculated seats for the General category where 95 posts were sanctioned for Professors but 130 posts were filled while and 14 were still vacant. For the post of Associate Professor, there were 204 seats sanctioned but 319 seats were filled while 13 lay vacant. 560 seats were sanctioned for the post of Assistant Professor but filled 630 posts were filled and 93 were vacant.

General category is occupying extra 340 posts," the teachers observed in their note to the media after calculating the number by adding the sum of filled and vacant posts and subtracting it with the total sanctioned posts.

Not Found Suitable option used for denying posts to OBCs

Speaking on behalf of the teachers of the University, that does not have a teachers representative body for years now, Professor in the Department of Ancient Indian History, Culture and Archaeology, Mahesh Ahirwar said that a complaint was filed by OBC teachers with the national commission of backward classes. The complaint stated that no action was taken against the authorities who denied opportunities to the able OBC candidates.

Banaras Hindu University is the central university in the country where the representation of the OBCs, SCs and STs is not realised quite like other universities. This has been happening for many years. The authorities deny them appointment by considering the candidates as ineligible for the job. Many of them are called for an interview and are then declared Not Found Suitable (NFS)," Ahirwar said.

Candidates from reserved castes are called for an interview but denied opportunities in various departments like  Arthshastra, Kala Itihas, Hindi, Darshan Shastra, Rasayan Vigyan department," he said, narrating an example of the Philosophy department where 42 eligible candidates were considered for the vacant posts but only 12 were called for an interview where they were declared NFS. Similar situation also prevailed in Institute for Medical Sciences and Sanskrit Vidya Dharam Vigyan of the university where authorities denied opportunities to its own gold medal list.

The authorities have to explain why 203 seats are missing in OBC, 137 in EWS and explain 340 extra appointments made in the General category. There has not been a response to our queries for years," he said. The total of 203 and 137 is 340 (extra in general category), which makes the teachers more persistent in getting the answers from the administration to explain where did the missing numbers go.

There were no missing numbers for appointments in the Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) categories, showed the RTI data, though the momentum of appointments in the two categories were slow.

Pointing out that because reservation in higher education was already in force for the SC/STs, and teachers were constantly struggling to implement it, Ahirwar said, The process of appointments in SC/ST continued even if its momentum was slow." In contrast, the reservation of OBC was announced at Assistant Professor level in 2007 and not much interest was taken in filling seats for OBCs, he added.

News18.com tried to contact Registrar of the university Niraj Tripathi and spokesperson Rajesh Kumar but did not receive any response.

BHU abided by the policy of Reservation provided as per government of India instructions guidelines", the varsity said in its reply to a query regarding the affirmative policy followed by the institutions.
Emmanuel Macron, president de la France

Emmanuel Macron a annonce jeudi que la France preparait un avion pour rapatrier les deux journalistes du quotidien Le Monde blesses dans le Haut-Karabakh, une region separatiste ou lArmenie et lAzerbaidjan saffrontent depuis dimanche.





Cette declaration a ete faite a son arrivee a Bruxelles pour le Conseil europeen de jeudi et vendredi.




Classified documents from Britains financial crime agency have revealed how it allowed JP Morgan to pay $875 million of suspicious funds to Dan Etete, a former Nigerian oil minister widely known as a convicted money launderer.

The documents, rarely seen Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs), were filed by the banking giants London branch as it raised concerns about huge payments it was being asked to make by the Nigerian government to Etete.

The reports were filed in 2011 and 2013 to the UKs Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), which at that time sat within the now defunct Serious Organised Crime Agency.

According to the documents, JP Morgans compliance bosses warned the agency the funds may constitute criminal property.

But despite also being told that two other banks  one Swiss and one Lebanese  had refused to handle the funds  the FIU appears to have given JP Morgan tacit permission to make the payments.

In doing so, it may also have immunised JP Morgan from any future money laundering prosecution.

The money, the proceeds of the notorious OPL245 oil deal, was then allegedly used for kickbacks, to buy a private jet, an armoured Cadillac, and antique shotguns.

The documents underline serious failings in the use of SARs, which are meant to be a central plank in the international fight against money laundering.

Last week, a massive leak of suspicious activity reports from the USs financial intelligence unit, FinCen, and published by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, revealed similar concerns.

Critics claim they are little more than exercises in ticking boxes that allow banks to duck their responsibilities.

Susan Hawley, director of Spotlight on Corruption, said the SARs regime needed a drastic overhaul.

There is little prospect of winning the battle against money laundering without some kind of radical shift in how we deal with this, she said.

It cant be right that banks can effectively shrug off their responsibility for handling dirty money by filing a SAR and passing the buck to overstretched and underfunded law enforcement bodies.

JP Morgan declined to comment on detailed questions, citing ongoing legal proceedings. The bank is being sued by Nigeria in connection with its role in the deal. It has strongly denied any wrongdoing.

A spokesman for the National Crime Agency, which now oversees the FIU, said at the time of the JP Morgan payments, consent could only be declined if there was a realistic prospect of positive law enforcement action within 31 days of a refusal.

OPL245  The background

In the OPL 245 deal, Shell and Italys Eni in 2011 paid the Nigerian government of then president Goodluck Jonathan a combined $1.3 billion for an oil block. Of that amount $875 million was paid to Malabu Oil & Gas, a company controlled by Etete.

Etete had awarded Malabu the rights to the block in 1998 when he was Nigerias oil minister.

Within weeks of the deal in April 2011, half of Malabus money was allegedly packed into bags and paid out to Nigerian government officials and Western oil executives as cash bribes.

The major players in the deal, including Shell and Eni, are being tried on various corruption charges in a major criminal trial in Milan. All have denied wrongdoing.

But the deal has also spawned further lawsuits, including efforts by a new presidential regime in Nigeria to recover assets.

The latest is a $1 billion case brought by the Republic of Nigeria against JP Morgan in the UK. Nigeria claims the bank failed in its due diligence and duty of care when it processed the payments.

JP Morgan says that it has done nothing wrong and that it followed valid, binding and irrevocable instructions from its client, the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The SAR files

It has cited its SAR submissions in its defence, claiming that the FIU gave it consent to make the payments.

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The SARs were obtained by Eni via the UK courts last year, and have been accepted as evidence in the ongoing criminal trial in Milan.

They also show just how strong the corruption suspicions were among JP Morgan bosses before they made the payments  two of around $400 million in 2011, and a final $74 million in 2013.

In each of the nine SARs made by the bank over this two year period, Dan Etete is named as the main subject of its suspicions.

Dan Etete [Photo Credit: Nairametrics]

In its first report to the FIU in June 2011, the bank stated that OPL 245 had been originally awarded to Malabu in 1998 and that, according to public domain sources, Malabu is owned or substantially owned by Daniel Etete, a former Minister of Petroleum in Nigeria from 1995  1998.

The report also noted Etetes recent money laundering conviction in France in 2007.

The bank then told the FIU that one attempted payment to Swiss bank BSI Lugano had already been rejected for compliance reasons, because BSI was not comfortable receiving the funds.

After a second bank, this one in Lebanon, rejected the money in August 2011, JP Morgan emailed the FIU to explain it had received new instructions to split the funds between two local Nigerian Banks.

These instructions, according to the compliance official, had resulted from the rejection by Banque Misr Liban of the earlier payment.

This turned out to be the last chance that UK law enforcement had to stop the bulk of the money flowing to Etete.

According to Susan Hawley, the proposed splitting of funds should have stopped JP Morgan in its tracks.

But at this point, a senior FIU officer emailed JP Morgan to say: This is a business decision for JP Morgan to make, taking into account the legitimacy and all aspects of due diligence regarding this new request.

In a highly revealing exchange in August 2011, a JP Morgan compliance director forwarded this email to a colleague, writing that there was no need for a further SAR Provided we are sufficiently happy with the legitimacy of the instruction then no objections from SOCA.

They then made the payment.

In its legal defence to Nigerias high court claim, JP Morgan said it had been informed orally by SOCA that consent to the payment had been granted.

By the time JP Morgan was instructed to pay the final $74 million of the OPL245 funds to Malabu in August 2013, JP Morgan knew even more about the deal and its beneficiaries, Etete and Malabu.

According to the SARs, which have been published on Enis website, JP Morgan was now fully aware of judicial findings that Etete was the beneficial owner of Malabu, as well as active investigations into the deal by the UKs Metropolitan Police, the US Department of Justice, and the Nigerian Senate.

In its final reports to the FIU in 2013, the bank detailed pieces of information that give rise to suspicion that the funds may constitute criminal property.

These included Production orders obtained by the Metropolitan Police Proceeds of Corruption Unit, Specialist Economic and Organised Crime Command and the facts and matters detailed in support of applications for these orders.

It also referred to a potential Serious Fraud Office investigation related to the funds.

Nonetheless, the bank still sought permission from the FIU to pay a balance of more than $74m it held on account to Malabu and, eight days later, this permission was granted.

A spokesman for the NCA said he could not confirm nor deny facts relating to possible operational activity.

But he explained that at that time the law required there to be a realistic chance of positive law enforcement within 31 days of the FIU refusing consent for such payments.

Under the Criminal Finances Act, introduced in 2017, this time period was extended to six months.

It is not clear why the FIU might have deemed there no realistic chance of enforcement action against the payments in 2011 and 2013, but those who have followed this deal closely believe a major factor was that the payment instructions came from the Nigerian government itself.

Analysis: SARs system is broken

Whilst the 2017 Criminal Finances Act has made it easier for law enforcement to freeze suspicious funds, and given it a greater time period in which to do so, the SARs regime is still troubled.

The volume of SARs has proliferated in recent years. In 2019 the UKs FIU, which sits within the National Crime Agency (NCA), received nearly 500,000 reports.

However, its 118 employees only have the capacity to investigate and block a tiny fraction of these. Of the 34,500 SARs it received last year that had a request for a defence against money laundering, 96% were granted.

The NCA has complained that these volumes are untenable. Its annual report states that from this barrage of reporting, law enforcement was able to freeze just 132 million.

This suggests that banks are being given de facto permission to make thousands of transactions they know to be suspicious.

The current figures on the paltry amounts confiscated as a result of SARs are pretty damning, says Susan Hawley. The Government should be investing heavily in increased enforcement capacity to follow the money trails unearthed through bank reports.

Ultimately, we have to start thinking ambitiously about a SARs regime that results in banks declining dodgy transactions unless explicitly authorised by law enforcement to go ahead for intelligence purposes.

A spokesperson for the NCA said: We recognise there is more work that needs to be done in this area, hence our commitment to the Home Office led SARs Reform Programme which aims, among other things, to improve the quality of SARs reporting.

Last year the Law Commission recommended the creation of an Advisory Board to measure the effectiveness of the SAR regime and to advise the Secretary of State on ways to improve it.
Shimla, Oct 1 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi has advised two former Himachal Pradesh Chief Ministers -- Shanta Kumar and Prem Kumar Dhumal -- not to attend the inauguration of the strategic Atal Tunnel, beneath the majestic Rohtang Pass on October 3, the state government said on Thursday.

A spokesman for the government said here that the Prime Minister is dedicating the Atal Tunnel on October 3.

In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, proper social distancing norms will be followed during the whole event.

The spokesman said the state government had invited all the ministers, former Chief Ministers and MLAs to this event besides a limited number of local residents of Lahaul-Spiti and Kullu districts.

He said the Prime Minister has personally advised Shanta Kumar and Dhumal to skip the function in the wake of the pandemic.

He added that on the advice of the Prime Minister both the former Chief Ministers had decided to avoid the event and witness it virtually.
India on Thursday reported 86,821 fresh cases of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19), taking the case tally to 6,312,584 , according to Union health ministry. The country also reported 1,181 new fatalities due to the virus in last 24 hours, taking the death toll to 98,678.

India has 9,40,705 active cases in the country, whereas a total of 52,73,201 people have been cured of the disease so far. While the countrys infection rate is at 15.11%, Indias recovery rate currently stands at 83.33%.

A total of 7,56,19,781 samples have been tested for Covid-19 till September 30. Of these, 14,23,052 samples were tested on Wednesday, according to Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

Though the country continues to witness a rise in Covid-19 cases, the Centre on Wednesday issued fresh guidelines for reopening of activities for people. The Centre has given a green flag for partial reopening of movie theatres, schools, colleges and swimming pools among other things.

As per the new guidelines, the schools and colleges can reopen from October 15 in a graded manner but only after the states and union territories have taken consultation with the respective school/institution management, based on their assessment of the situation.

This relaxation comes with a set of its own conditions, one of those being: Students may attend schools and institutions only with the written consent of parents.

On the other hand, Cinema halls have been permitted to reopen with up to 50 per cent of their seating capacity for which SOP (Standard operating procedure) will be issued by Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MHA).

On Wednesday, Maharashtra extended its lockdown till October 31, while also issuing relaxations on a few services such as restaurants, Mumbai local services bars and hotel.

The Centre in its guidelines has also made it clear that all states and UT governments will not impose any lockdown outside the containment zones until a consultation with the government is made.

State/ UT Governments shall not impose any local lockdown (State/ District/ sub-division/City/ village level), outside the containment zones, without prior consultation with the Central Government. No restriction on inter-state & intra-state movement, the Ministry of Home Affairs had said in a statement.
Election Day is less than five weeks away, and Michigan voters can now request to vote via absentee ballot for any reason. Here are step-by-step instructions for doing so for City of Midland residents.

The point of contact for your absentee ballot voting process is the City of Midland Clerks Office, located at City Hall, 333 W. Ellsworth St. To contact the clerks office, email clerk@midland-mi.org or call 989-837-3310.

If you plan to vote absentee, otherwise known as voting by mail, allow a couple weeks ahead of the election, as it is a multiple step process that takes time. There are actions you can take to speed up the process, such as using return drop boxes instead of mail.

1. First step is to register to vote. In Michigan, you can register in-person with your local clerk until 8 p.m. on Election day. If you register to vote in any other manner, such as online or by mail, you only have until Oct. 19.

2. Once registered, you must request an absentee ballot by filling out and returning an application. The application can be found online on Michigan.gov, outside the Grace A. Dow Memorial Library under the portico, or you can call or email the city clerks office to request the application. Once you have the application, fill it out completely and sign the bottom. You can do this online or by printing it out.

3. You can then return your completed application to the clerks office by mail, email or deliver it in person. If you return the application by email, scan or take a picture of it and make sure your signature is visible. City residents have until 4 p.m. Monday Nov. 2 to request their ballot if they do so in person, or, until 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30 to request an absentee ballot by mail.

In the City of Midland, you can put your name on the "Permanent Absentee Voter List" to automatically receive an application for each election. To do so, contact the clerks office by phone or email. The sooner you apply, the sooner you receive your ballot.

If you change your mind and dont want to vote absentee, you can simply throw the application away.

Even if you receive and return multiple applications, you will only ever receive one ballot, which is identified by a unique number and barcode.

Once your application is received by the city clerks office, the information is verified with your voter registration. If there are discrepancies, the clerk will reach out to you via the provided contact information and correct those before sending out your absentee ballot.

4. The absentee ballot is then mailed to you. Inside the blue and white envelope, you will find a green and white return envelope, a yellow secrecy sleeve, instructions printed on green paper and your ballot. Voters should completely fill out the ballot, both sides, following the instructions.

Then seal, sign and return the envelope containing your ballot. Do not forget your signature! The envelope must be signed to be counted. If it's not, you will be contacted to fix it.

5. Return your ballot as soon as possible. After receiving your absentee ballot, you have until 8 p.m. on Election Day (Nov. 3) to return it to the clerks office, however if you send it back by mail, this wont be enough time to be counted. You have two options for returning your ballot.

By mail: Allow at least 2 weeks prior to Nov. 3 to return your ballot to ensure it is mailed on time. So, mail it out no later than Oct. 19. If you choose the mailing option, you must include 70 cents postage on the envelope.

By drop box: Drop your envelope in one of the secure drop boxes at City Hall. There is one inside residents can use during business hours, or there is one located on the Larkin Street entrance to City Hall. This box should only be used by city residents, not township residents.

6. Now youre done! You can track your ballot via Michigan.gov/vote as it is received, processed and counted by the clerks office. Staff in the office will verify your signature, registration and application. If there is an issue, you will be contacted. Every ballot  verified and eligible  received before 8 p.m. on Election Day, Nov. 3, will be counted.

Please note:

 Though voters can now vote absentee for no-reason, leaving many more people to choose this option, the process for voting by mail is not new. And, the Nov. 3 election will be the third in the state since the pandemic began. So, the city clerk said residents shouldn't worry about their vote not being counted.

 The local postmaster has regular communication with the city clerk. Ballots returned by mail are hand-sorted and stay in Midland. They do not go to a metroplex.

 Once the clerks office has your ballot, they cannot open and count them until election day.

 If you receive your absentee ballot in the mail and decide youd prefer to vote in-person at the polls, it is still possible. However, it is strongly discouraged by the clerks office. Not only is there not enough ballots for everyone to do this, it is a cumbersome and time-consuming process that can slow down lines at the polls. If you've been issued an absentee ballot but would like to vote at the polls, call the city clerk's office to talk about your options.

 Absentee ballots will not be counted unless your signature is on the return envelope and matches your signature on file.

 If you received assistance voting, information and the signature of the person assisting you must also be completed on the return envelope.

 Only you, a family member or person residing in your household, a mail carrier or election official is authorized to deliver your signed absent voter ballot to the clerks office.
- Drake has gifted DJ Khaled with a diamond chain to celebrate their friendship and success of their songs Popstar and Greece

- Khaled took to social media to show off the beautiful diamond-encrusted owl and key pendant chain that Drake bought for him

- Khaled explained that Drake wears the same chain in the music video of Popstar and now he also bought him one

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Two months ago, Drake and DJ Khaled linked up to drop two songs, Popstar and Greece.

To celebrate the success of the two singles, Drake bought a diamond owl and key pendant chain for Khaled and the DJ took to social media to flaunt the beautiful gift that his friend got him.

Khaled explained that the iced-out chain looks exactly like the one that Drake is wearing in the music video of Popstar.

He shared a short clip on Instagram where he showed off the custom-made vanity item. He captioned his post:

"Thank you @champagnepapi for this beautiful gift. Luv forever. #WETHEBEST #OVO Luv always KHALED KHALED."

In the video, Khaled explains:

"It is always special when we connect. If you watch the Popstar video, Drake is wearing one and I now got one. It's called brothers. This gift means so much to me, Drake got me a beautiful gift. Fully iced out and it's so heavy."

The expensive chain features Drakes OVO owl mascot which is connected to the Khaled's We The Best lion head. The main design of the chain is that of a key.

Popstar and Greece are the first songs from the hip-hop DJ's 12th studio album due out later this year. The title of the new album is Khaled Khaled.

Drake and Khaled have collaborated on a number of joints before.

The hip-hop stars worked on the hit track titled I'm On One back in 2011. It peaked at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2011.

Drake has gifted DJ Khaled a diamond chain to celebrate their friendship. Image: @champagnepapi/Instagram @djkhaled/Instagram

Source: UGC

In other news, American comedian Kevin Hart and his wife Eniko are parents once again after welcoming a beautiful daughter.

Eniko gave birth to their second child Kaori Mai Hart on Tuesday, September 29.

Taking to her Instagram account, Eniko announced the arrival of their little angel in a cute post.

"Thankful  grateful  blessed A little bit of heaven sent down to earth. Welcome to the world baby girl. We could not t love you more. Kaori Mai Hart. 9.29.20," she wrote.

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This is me coming to you with a heavy heart. My friends left after I got cancer - Esther Nyambura/TUKO TV

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For justifying to invoke the charge of attempt to murder, it is not essential that bodily injury capable of causing death should have been inflicted, the Bombay high court observed last week.

Section 307 (of the Indian Penal Code) draws a distinction between the act of the accused and its result, if any, said justice Bharati Dangre.

Such an act may not be attended by any result so far as the person assaulted is concerned, but still there can be cases in which a person could be held liable under the section, the judge added.

The high court made the observation while rejecting bail applications of Sachin Gurav (27) and his brother Samir (21), both of whom have been arrested by Vijaydurg police on September 5, 2019 for attempting to murder one Bhikaji Gurav.

Also Read: Dont want anyone homeless during pandemic: Bombay HC refuses to allow demolitions, evictions

Police claimed that Bhikaji was prosecuted for killing Sachin and Samirs father, and the brothers were perturbed by Bhikajis acquittal, and therefore they assaulted him on September 4, when he returned to their village.

It was argued on behalf of the Gurav brothers that it was unfortunate that Bhikaji lost his left hand in the attack, but the applicants did not intend to kill him, as they did not attack any vital organ, and therefore the attack could not be termed as an attempt to murder.

Justice Dangre, however, refused to accept the argument. The judge said for ascertaining whether an act would fall within the ambit of Section 307, it necessary to look into the nature of the act, circumstances under which the act is committed and the intention or knowledge of the accused.

The judge said in the case at hand the applicants nurtured motive.

The applicants can be attributed of clear knowledge and intention, he said.
The coronavirus pandemic brought out the best and the worst in Floridas political figures.

We have a hard time coming up with a politician who rose to the occasion in better fashion than state Rep. Anna Eskamani.

She became a one-woman clearinghouse for Floridians trying to navigate what was universally panned as the nations cruelest, most dysfunctional unemployment compensation system.

By one measure, the freshman lawmakers office went to bat for more Floridians than anyone elected official in the state, referring some 16,000 struggling people to the state for assistance. She responded directly to constituents, answering their questions, holding virtual town halls, posting tips and news updates and putting relentless pressure on Gov. Ron DeSantis and his administration to take better care of the legions of workers who suddenly found themselves without work.

Her advocacy became so well known throughout the state that people outside the district came to Eskamani for help, and she gave it.

Eskamani was equally loud in advocating for assistance to small businesses, later turning her attention to the impending eviction crisis among people who face the terrifying prospect of becoming homeless because theyre out of work or unable to get the unemployment assistance theyre entitled to.

The pandemic was Eskamanis defining moment because it showed that she gets whats important about being a politician, which is to first help the least among us and make the system work for everyone. We encounter far too many political figures whose top priority is propping up the most powerful people and business interests.

Eskamanis not interested in joining their club. She understands this state has left an entire class of worker behind in its zeal to make wealthy people even wealthier.

Thats why were endorsing Eskamani, a Democrat, for another term in the House, not only representing the residents of District 47 in Orlando, Winter Park and Belle Isle but also Floridians who dont have a voice with their elected officials.

Story continues

Eskamanis parents both came to America from Iran and met in Orlando, her father an electrical engineer who also worked at Disney, her mother a college graduate who had to find work in service jobs. Eskamani got her bachelors and masters degrees from UCF and is working on a doctorate.

She has loudly championed many of the things this Editorial Board has supported, including Medicaid expansion, accountability for private voucher schools and, not surprisingly, reforming Floridas unemployment system. Shes also demonstrated a willingness to call out her own party and its members when theyre not doing the right thing or carrying their weight.

Eskamanis Republican opponent is Jeremy Sisson, who heads a commercial real estate firm and won his Republican primary in August. Sisson is involved in numerous charitable ventures around the area, and is running a campaign built around a series of videos where he discusses his positions.

Hes put a lot of thought into some of those positions, but at his essence hes another status quo candidate. For example, his 4-minute video on affordable housing boils down to government getting out of the way and unleashing the market. Weve heard that one before.

His business bona fides are suspect, too, considering he filed for bankruptcy at the end of 2019.

Sissons running a shadow campaign. He dodges interviews (he declined our invitations for the primary and the general election) and wont do forums with Eskamani, which might say a thing or two about Sissons fortitude. District 47 voters need courage in Tallahassee, not someone who hides from scrutiny.

District 47 has no shortage of courage in its current representative. Voters need to send Eskamani back to Tallahassee.

Election endorsements are the opinion of the Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board, which consists of Opinion Editor Mike Lafferty, Jennifer A. Marcial Ocasio, Jay Reddick, David Whitley and Editor-in-Chief Julie Anderson. Sentinel Columnist Scott Maxwell participates in interviews and deliberations. Send emails to insight@orlandosentinel.com. Watch candidate interviews at OrlandoSentinel.com/interviews.



2020 The Orlando Sentinel (Orlando, Fla.)

Visit The Orlando Sentinel (Orlando, Fla.) at www.OrlandoSentinel.com

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P ro-Brexit campaign group Leave.EU has apologised to Labour MP Naz Shah after a social media post left her facing abuse and death threats.

Ms Shah began libel action against the group after it claimed in a Facebook post that she was a grooming gangs apologist.

Leave.EU has issued an apology which accepted that the Bradford West MP was a vociferous campaigner for victims of grooming gangs.

The Leave.EU statement said: On December 16 2019 we posted a Facebook post which described Naz Shah MP as a grooming gangs apologist.

While the publication had been intended to be satirical; we appreciate that it was ill-judged and untrue. We accept that Ms Shah is not an apologist for grooming gangs but is a vociferous campaigner for victims of grooming gangs.

We apologise for the distress caused by it and have paid Ms Shah damages for libel.

The comment was part of a post making fun of possible contenders for the Labour Party leadership after Jeremy Corbyn said he would step down.

It was taken down on the same day, but not before it had received thousands of comments and shares.

Ms Shah said that she welcomed the apology but screenshots of the post were still used by people wanting to abuse her.

Im one of the most abused MPs on Twitter because of this allegation, she said. Its horrible, its really horrible.

She added: The allegation of me being a grooming apologist has been horrendous.

The fact theyve accepted that Im a vociferous campaigner against grooming is important to me.

This is the kind of stuff thats used against people in public life and other MPs. Its just not fair. Its just not right for it to happen.

Ms Shah said the reaction to the post had affected her family, with her children asking: Mum, why do you get so much hate, why do people hate you so much?

She said: It literally has been threats to my life at times.

Ms Shah said she had never never shied away from the issue of grooming gangs and was campaigning against perpetrators long before she became an MP in 2015.

She said: Islamic communities are absolutely appalled by it (child sexual exploitation). People I talk to are appalled by it.

Im on record talking about, Ive talked about it on Asian media channels and to the community. Its not something Ive shied away from at all and I dont intend to in the future.

I welcome the apology and just want to draw a line under it and get on.

She added: Im not going to let a tweet that was up there for eight minutes, which was removed, define my life and my politics.

Although Ms Shah said she could not discuss the damages paid by Leave.EU before consulting her legal team, she said: Im just happy with the apology. It was never about anything else.

She said she still receives abuse on a daily basis.

A man was jailed for 12 weeks last year for sending an offensive email to Ms Shah which made racist taunts and violent threats, and accused her of antisemitism and trying to silence the victims of the Rotherham child abuse scandal.

In June of this year, a Conservative Party activist was suspended for saying Ms Shah should "go back to Pakistan.

Additional reporting by PA media
The Vice President of the Republic, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has commissioned and handed over an ultra-modern Infectious Diseases Treatment Centre to the 37 Military Hospital in Accra.



Originally conceived in 2014 at the height of the Ebola crisis, the 25-bed facility, which also houses a Command Centre to coordinate the activities of isolation centres across the country and a Health Surveillance Unit, was begun in April 2019 and completed after 10 months at a cost of Ghc 4.8 million.



Addressing the gathering of military, health and government officials on Wednesday, 30th September, 2020, Vice President Bawumia underscored governments determination to provide essential logistics and infrastructure to meet the nations health needs.



As you aware, work on this facility began even before the outbreak of the Covid 19 in Ghana. This government has initiated, in less than four years, 843 projects in the health sector, with 475 of them completed, while the rest are ongoing. We have also introduced a lot of initiatives in the health sector, such as the use of drones to deliver essential medical supplies. We now have four drone centres operational, and during this Covid crises, 2,500 samples have been delivered by drones.



Our commitment to improving access to health care remains unwavering, and with your support, we will have even more time to do more.



Speaking earlier, the Minister of Defence, Hon. Dominic Nitiwul was confident that the facility would be put to good use and in the finest traditions of the military, we can be sure that years later, this facility will remain in good shape due to the culture of maintenance.



The Deputy Minister of Health, Hon Dr Bernard Okoe Boye, who represented the Minister, disclosed that a number of health facilities will be completed this year including the Bekwai, Fomena and Kumawu hospitals.



Never in the history of this country has so much resources been invested in health care in such a short time. This is indeed a sure sign of the governments commitment to ensuring the provision of healthcare for its people, Dr Okoe Boye stated.

Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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.

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What is a "Google phone"? That's a question I've been trying to wrap my moist mammal-brain around for many a moon now, and the answer has rarely stayed still for long.

Early on, back when the "Google phone" concept first came around with the Nexus line of devices (pour one out, everyone), the idea was meant to represent a dramatic shakeup of the phone-buying experience. The first Nexus phone, the now-classic Nexus One, had not only high-end hardware (for the time) but also a wild-seeming web-based sales model where you'd buy the phone unlocked, direct from Google, and without any carrier involvement. (Things were pretty different back in the prehistoric time of 2010  as this Nexus launch video will quickly remind you.)

The idea of the "Google phone" eventually evolved to mean a niche-level device for developers, enthusiasts, and other people in the know. For a while, it also meant a device focused on value  such as with 2012's luxurious Nexus 4, which sold for a mere $299 unlocked and off-contract at a time when most companies were hawking flagships for that kind of money only if you locked yourself into an over-the-top two-year contract and agreed to pay an ongoing ransom via your carrier.

When Google moved from the Nexus brand to the Pixel brand in 2016, it made it clear the days of niche devices and value products were a thing of the past. The first Pixel started at $649  a high price by 2016 standards and a hefty hike from the bargain-bin costs we'd grown accustomed to expecting up to that point. Google told us it was laser-focused on the high-end, luxury phone market with mainstream appeal firmly in sight and enterprise adoption as a broader long-term goal.

Well, five years later, it looks like the idea of the "Google phone" is changing once again  and this time, it's shifting at least a little back toward a direction from its past. The Pixel 5, announced this week and on sale now for $699, feels like a deliberate pivot from the Pixels that preceded it. And it feels like an interesting new mashup of some of Google's previous Pixel strategies.

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There's the price, of course: At $699, the Pixel 5 is a good bit less expensive than last year's Pixel 4, which started at $799 for the regular-sized model and $899 for the larger XL version. Whereas most phone prices typically only go up from one year to the next, this one is actually going down (and that's to say nothing of its comparison to the more typical flagship phone of the moment, which rarely starts below $1,000).

That drop is obviously a calculated move, and it sure seems to be connected to a shift in strategy at the very heart of what the Pixel brand  the "Google phone," as it were  represents.

Pixel 5 and the 'Google phone' pivot

A little over a year ago, I proposed that 2019's Pixel 3a might one day be seen as Google's "Moto G moment"  that point when a less expensive phone becomes the breakaway hit and ends up reshaping its company's core strategy for success. With the Pixel 5 this year, it looks like that prophecy's starting to play out.

For evidence, we need look no further than the decisions Google made with its Pixel 5 philosophy  like, for instance, the decision to skip the cutting-edge processor found in most current flagship phones and go instead with a more modest, middle-of-the-road chip or the decision to stick with a 1080p-resolution display instead of embracing the super-duper-quad-HD-ultra-thousand-plus (or whatever the hell they're calling 'em these days) panels many top-of-the-line handsets possess.

Those decisions were well-considered. While there's certainly a small but vocal subset of spec nerds who'll scoff at any device that doesn't have the best possible parts, no normal person is gonna notice the difference between a Snapdragon 865 processor and a Snapdragon 765G chip (or even know such a difference exists, for that matter). And no one without superhuman vision is gonna be able to tell the difference between a good 1080p screen and a display with some absurdly over-the-top resolution  not at this size, anyway.

Quite frankly, the strategy brings to mind what we saw with the also Google-made Moto X, which similarly shunned top-of-the-line specs for a more modest package and a focus on real-world experience. I mean, just look back at what I wrote about the Moto X when it came out in 2013:

If you're looking for specific isolated pieces of technology ... the Moto X probably isn't the phone for you. It's by no means a perfect device, and there are absolutely individual areas where other smartphones come out ahead. But if you're looking for a thoughtfully designed phone with genuinely compelling features  and, most important, a cohesive and outstanding overall user experience that'll delight you from the moment you pick it up  you'll be hard-pressed to find another product that matches what the Moto X provides.

Feels familiar, no? While a full assessment of the Pixel 5 is still pending, it seems safe to say the ambition with it is to focus less on numbers on a page and more on the practical experience you get from using the product  and to include a sensible array of pieces that support that experience without packing in fat simply for the sake of saying it's there.

The comparisons to past efforts, both Moto X and Nexus, are unavoidable  but the situation itself absolutely isn't the same. Unlike in its Nexus-making or even Moto-owning days, Google now has a consistent, premium-feeling package with an actual marketing and distributing machine behind it, and it has a proposition that could genuinely appeal to business-minded buyers. Rather conveniently, we're also now approaching a point where lots of folks are feeling burnt out on thousand-dollar phone prices and actively looking for lower-priced alternatives.

Now, sure, there's plenty of room for error and obviously no guarantee the Pixel 5 will see any manner of mainstream success  but look, that's Google's problem to obsess over, not ours. What we can say is that the foundation seems solid, the strategy seems sound, and the phone seems like a smart buy (provided, of course, that the reviews confirm our hopes that the device is everything we expect it to be). It plays into the success Google's seen with its modestly priced midrange Pixel "a" level of phones and feels like an inevitable shift toward what was actually working  a higher-end option for anyone who appreciates the advantages Google's Pixel line offers but wants them in a fancier package with some extra creature comforts and yet without an astronomical price tag attached.

Especially when you consider that the Pixel line is the only place on Android where you get a guarantee of near-instant operating system and security updates for a full three years from a phone's launch  and when you then consider how poorly most other Android device-makers do on that front in comparison (not to mention how frequently those manufacturers add extra data-harvesting systems and spammy ads into their devices' software)  well, it's easy to see how a $700 phone like the Pixel 5 could resonate with professionals and anyone else interested in an optimal Android experience.

All of that being said, the shift we're seeing with the Pixel 5 isn't entirely rainbows and roses.

The thorny side of Google's Pixel backtrack

The downside  the shame of Google's Pixel pivot and the company's scaled back approach to the Pixel 5  is what we're losing in the process. And I'm not talking about the higher-end processor or the previously-present shiny glass exterior; I'm talking about the ambitious and promise-packed technology Google bundled into its high-end handsets, such as a new method of interaction that debuted with the Pixel 4 last year and is already missing from the Pixel 5 picture.

That system was originally known as Project Soli and eventually branded as Motion Sense in the Pixel 4. It was a radar-based chip system that allowed the phone to sense even the tiniest hand movements and respond accordingly. It was some seriously sci-fi-level stuff and something that seemed ripe with potential.

In practice, it mostly failed to win us over. The Pixel's implementation of Soli radar basically boiled down to a handful of limited and often inconsistent gestures for controlling audio playback and silencing sounds. Google assured us that was just the start  that just "as Pixels get better over time," in the company's words, "Motion Sense [would] evolve as well." Google wanted to give us all time to get used to this new manner of interacting with our devices, the thinking went, and it'd expand the system's unique "language" and capabilities as time moved on.

And yet, here we are. One year later, and the system's barely evolved from its original form  and by all signs is now as good as dead, at least as far as the Pixel goes. (Update: Google hardware chief Rick Osterloh says the Soli system "will be used in the future" in some capacity but confirms it was simply too expensive for this new iteration of the Pixel phone.)

The Soli-enabled gestures themselves are honestly no huge loss, but what does sting is the loss of the potential this type of technology presented  the knowledge that we may never know how a system like this could have changed the way we use our phones, had it been given the time and the resources it needed to mature. It's a classic Google about-face, as I put it earlier this year  yet another one of the company's many moments of having some inspired idea, breathlessly convincing us of its value, and then changing direction and moving on instead of nourishing the notion and allowing it to develop.

On a more immediate and practical level, the adjustments required for the Pixel 5 also mark the end of the merely one-year-old secure face unlock feature for Google's Android phones  another shame, as the system worked incredibly well, added valuable security into the Pixel proposition, and (as I can attest to from personal experience) was one of those things you wouldn't want to give up once you'd grown accustomed to its convenience.

And those, of course, are but a couple specific examples. Google execs have previously pointed out that high-end phones are critical for "driv[ing] computing forward" and achieving innovation, given the opportunities they allow for complex and costly technological leaps. How many other new, interesting, and potentially transformative technologies won't ever make their way to the surface without a proper vehicle to support them?

In the grand scheme of things, maybe losing these luxury-level elements in order to create a more affordable Pixel phone is a price Google has to pay if it wants to turn its homemade phone program into a sustainable business. It makes sense on one level, even if it is a bit disappointing on another. The true test, though, is to see if this latest strategy is one Google actually sticks with  or if we find ourselves thinking about yet another "Google phone" pivot by this time next year.

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[Android Intelligence videos at Computerworld]
CARACAS, Venezuela - A popular opposition politician in Venezuela urged authorities on Wednesday to delay upcoming congressional elections, saying its the only way to create free and fair conditions for the vote.

The call by former presidential candidate Henrique Capriles came hours after the European Union made a similar plea, reiterating that it wont send observers to Venezuela without postponing the vote and seeing a vast improvement in electoral conditions.

If its postponed, does that automatically mean there will be the right conditions? Capriles said in an online broadcast. No, but it allows for the possibility of an observation mission.

At stake in the vote now set for Dec. 6 is control of the National Assembly. The legislative body is controlled by an opposition coalition led by U.S.-backed politician Juan Guaido. A loss of the chamber could erase the oppositions last hold power, putting all branches of government under President Nicolas Maduros control.

A month earlier, Capriles, 48, said hed back candidates in the election, breaking with Guaido, who maintains Maduro has already rigged the election. Guado also claims presidential powers as head of the National Assembly in a campaign to oust Maduro.

For his part, Maduro sees the election as an opportunity to rid Venezuela of opponents, who he said are dead-set on stirring violence and handing over Venezuelas vast oil wealth to what he calls the imperialist United States.

Come rain, thunder or lightning, on December 6 will will hold the parliamentary elections, Maduro said in a recent TV address.

The EU recently sent two representatives to Caracas to discuss the possibility of delaying the vote. In a statement released early Wednesday, the coalition of 27 European nations said it wont send observers to Venezuela unless the election is both postponed and better conditions are guaranteed.

Beyond the immediate issue of legislative elections, the long-term objective remains the path to democracy, the EU statement said. It is the time for bold Venezuelan-owned decisions in support of a peaceful and democratic transition.

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The "Spiru Haret" Federation of Education Trade Unions (FSE "Spiru Haret") has signaled to the authorities as early as this August that the educational institutions are faced with staff shortage and has requested prompt action for hiring indispensable personnel for the implementation of the measures intended to keep the coronavirus at bay, the Federation said in a release on Thursday.

The result was the adoption of the Government's Decision No. 765/2020, by which the total number of positions in the public pre-university education system, special education included, county educational resources and assistance centers/the Bucharest Educational Resources and Assistance Center was increased from 285,460 to 285,960, but the additional 500 positions are a far cry from the real needs, the "Spiru Haret" Federation underscores.

A survey conducted by the "Spiru Haret" Federation of Education Trade Unions in 25 counties and the Municipality of Bucharest, based on data received from the local organizations and school inspectorates, found that the real need stands at about 29,000 teachers and over 8,600 other staff - auxiliary and non-teaching staff. Compared to these figures, in the current pandemic context, the 500 positions are just a drop in the ocean, the unionists argue.

Consequently, the trade unionists sent the Prime Minister of Romania a letter requesting that these issues be sorted out.

"Mr. Prime Minister, due to the freezing of hiring, many educational institutions are compelled to set up student study groups larger than the upper limit provided for by the law, particularly due to the rising numbers of students in large urban areas. Also, the shortage of non-teaching staff endangers the safety of everyone in the unit: children and employees. If you do not urgently and significantly supplement the positions in the public pre-university education system, you risk turning schools into infection hotbeds, which will lead to a sped up mass transmission," the release cautions.
The late Alhaji Fuseini Maiga, Founding Father of Nasara Wing

01.10.2020 LISTEN

The Greater Accra Zabarma Chief and President of Ghana Zabarma Association, Alhaji Sarki Pro-Umar Abubakar Tanko on Tuesday sent a message of condolences to the entire members of Nasara wing of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) over the death of former Nasara Wing Coordinator and Founding father, Alhaji Fuseini Maiga.

"On behalf of the Greater Accra Zabarma Community, the Association and in my own behalf Alhaji Sarki Pro-Umar Abubakar Tanko offering my heartfelt condolences on the death of Alhaji Fuseini Maiga and extend my sincere regards to the NPP government and members, as well as to the family of the late Founding father of Nasara Wing."

He noted that Alhaji Fuseini Maiga was an outstanding personality within and outside the Muslim community and had devoted himself to the development of the Zangos and the nation at large.

"Alhaji Fuseini Maiga who was like a father to me, had pursued friendly relations with Zongo Vibes, a super Hausa program I hosted t on Vibe Fm, an Accra based private radio station and made important contributions to the development of Zongos and NPP".

He continued, "I have hosted Alhaji Fuseini Maiga several times on my show and I really did my very best to promote him and his agenda due to good intentions he had for the Zango Communities."

"Alhaji Fuseini Maiga in 2004 succeeded in his agenda by obtaining a high number of votes for the NPP in the Zongos and through his efforts the NPP won.

"He then continued with his selfless agenda and made a significant impact in the lives of many Zongo youths. Indeed the Zongo Community had lost a great leader and he will forever remain in the minds and hearts of many Zongo youths.

"We deeply regret the passing on of the late Founding father of Nasara Wing," May Allaah (swt ) forgive him and grant his gentle soul Jannatul Firdaws," pro-Umar Tanko said.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. All the bodies of dead Azerbaijani serviceman that were left behind on Artsakhi territories had syringes in the pockets of their gear, Artsakhs presidential spokesperson Vahram Poghosyan told a news briefing.

All of this entirely constitutes war crime in terms of international law, he said. This proves that Azerbaijan is sending its troops to war in an already drugged condition.

103 servicemen of the Artsakh military have been killed in the Azerbaijani attacks since September 27. Over 120 troops are wounded. 7 civilians were also killed in different cities of Artsakh as Azeri forces bombarded towns.

According to latest reports, the Azeri forces lost more than 920 servicemen in the their offensive operations with more than 2100 wounded. The Azeris have also lost 84 UAVs, 7 gunships, 166 tanks and armored equipment, 1 warplane and 1 Smerch launcher.

Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan
I am a volunteer at the Womens Center of Greater Danbury, and I want to go on the record thanking state Rep. Raghib Allie-Brennan for being such a great champion for us. He has been a supporter of the Womens Center of Greater Danbury for years, and his time in Hartford shines a bright light on his commitment to protecting those who need protection the most.

During his time in office, Raghib has voted to support two important domestic violence bills. One of them, Senate Bill 1105, extends existing protections for victims of sexual assault and victims of family violence. This bill grants privacy to these victims who desperately need it, and keeps their names and addresses from being released.
eye-on-india Big Story | Govt does not expect to meet its FY21 disinvestment target of Rs 2.1 lakh crore How does this reflect on the governments FY21 revenue? Lets find out in this edition of Big Story.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-09-30 04:07:05|Editor: huaxia

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TRIPOLI, Sept. 29 (Xinhua) -- Libya on Tuesday reported 801 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the total confirmed cases in the country to 34,014.

The National Center for Disease Control of Libya also announced 384 new recoveries and 13 more deaths, raising the total recoveries in Libya to 18,902 and the death toll to 540.

Libyan authorities have taken a series of precautionary measures against the pandemic since its outbreak in March, including closing the country's borders, shutting down schools and mosques, banning public gatherings and imposing a curfew.

China donated medical aid to Libya in June to help the country's battle against the pandemic, including 834 nucleic acid diagnostic kits, 5,000 medical protective suits, 15,000 N95 face masks, 100,000 surgical masks, 5,000 pairs of goggles and 5,000 pairs of medical gloves. Enditem
Spitting Image returns to our screens on Saturday. We are promised grotesque new latex puppets of, among many others, Donald Trump, Meghan and Harry, Kim Kardashian, Boris Johnson, Taylor Swift and Angela Merkel.

Ed Sheeran is to be portrayed as a turnip, with a root growing from his chin, and Dominic Cummings as an evil genius, bent on world domination.

It will certainly liven up Saturday night television, which is currently the preserve of gameshows, Strictly Come Dancing, and two never-ending hours of Britains Got Talent.

Reactions to the original Spitting Image, which ran from 1984 to 1996, were many and varied. Most of us would be horrified at being portrayed as slugs or thugs or turnips, and one or two people did indeed object.

We are promised grotesque new latex puppets of, among many others, Donald Trump, Meghan and Harry, Kim Kardashian, Boris Johnson, Taylor Swift and Angela Merkel

Diana Brittan, wife of the Conservative cabinet minister Leon Brittan, once approached the shows producer, John Lloyd, complaining, Its so unfair! Youve given poor Leon five warts on his face, where in fact hes only got three!

Judy Steel, the wife of the then Liberal leader David Steel, could hardly bear to watch the show, and would often leave the room when it was on. She thought the portrayal of her husband as a tiny little puppet, perched in the pocket of Dr David Owen, had a devastating impact. David was almost fatally wounded as a political figure.

In these two instances, the savage satire of Spitting Image hit home, though its impact was felt by the wives of the politicians rather than the politicians themselves.

By and large, MPs seem to have relished seeing themselves on Spitting Image. The deputy Labour leader Roy Hattersley kept a photograph of his dummy on his office wall, and would have bought the original, had he been able to afford it.

Others splashed out. Michael Heseltine bought his dummy, and Edwina Currie, portrayed as a hideous Cruella de Vil figure, still has hers.

As far as I was concerned the fact that they were lampooning me on the programme was fine, recalled Currie, because I was a very junior minister, and to get noticed was great  it suggested I was getting my little message across. Members of the Cabinet who werent in it, really wanted to be in it. You felt that you had made it on to the top satirical programme, which meant that you were recognised.

It will certainly liven up Saturday night television, which is currently the preserve of gameshows, Strictly Come Dancing, and two never-ending hours of Britains Got Talent

Satirists often forget that narcissists just love being noticed.

In the early days, Jeffrey Archer was so keen to be on the show that he took to lobbying its creators.

We resisted doing Jeffrey Archer for a very long time, recalled Peter Fluck, the caricaturist. He used to send photographs and voice tapes with letters asking when his puppet would be ready.

Norman Tebbit found that his popularity soared after he was portrayed as a skinhead thug, clad in a leather jacket, wearing knuckle-dusters.

During the 1992 General Election, I spent a morning with him in Chingford, and was surprised by the warmth with which he was greeted by skinheads. Cheery cries of Wheres your leathers, Norm? followed him everywhere.

In last months issue of the Oldie magazine, Lord Tebbit credited a surge in his popularity to his Spitting Image puppet. It was that combination of being willing to use violence and emerging the winner that made him appealing to the bovver boys. This all suggests that, despite all its efforts, satire changes very little.

The sad truth is that, if it has any effect, it undermines the weak, and boosts the powerful.

The former Tory Chancellor George Osborne recently confessed to being happy when cartoonists portrayed him as a powerful monster, less so when they portrayed him as weakling.

At least people think youre in control of events and people think you can add up ... The political cartoons at the time helped me  they always portrayed me as wielding axes, and as a tough figure.

On these grounds, Dominic Cummings and Vladimir Putin are set to benefit from the revival of Spitting Image. That great satirist, the late Peter Cook once jokingly praised those wonderful Berlin cabarets which did so much to stop the rise of Hitler and prevent the outbreak of the Second World War.

Im sure he would be laughing at the new Spitting Image, but he would also recognise its impotence.
Chory's three decades of work with Arabidopsis thaliana , a small mustard plant known as thale cress, renders her one of the most influential plant biologists of her generation. Early in her career, Chory discovered that the DET1 gene was responsible for determining how plants respond to light, a finding that eventually led to her uncovering the entire plant steroid hormone signaling system and the unique roles of brassinosteroid and auxin hormones. More recently, Chory has spearheaded an ambitious effort to combat climate change by optimizing plants' natural ability to capture and store carbon. As director of the Harnessing Plants Initiative at Salk, she heads a research team working to alter key genetic pathways to produce crop variants with deeper roots that can pull more carbon out of the atmosphere and store it underground. In 2019, Salk received a $35 million award from the TED Audacious Project in support of the initiative.

"From her earliest work, which fundamentally changed researchers' understanding of plant growth and development, to her groundbreaking efforts to combat climate change, Dr. Chory's remarkable contributions stand to benefit all life on Earth," says Michael W. Young, Richard and Jeanne Fisher Professor and Vice President of Academic Affairs at Rockefeller, Nobel Laureate, and chair of the Pearl Meister Greengard Prize selection committee.

The Pearl Meister Greengard Prize was founded by the late Paul Greengard, the Vincent Astor Professor of Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience at Rockefeller, and his wife, Ursula von Rydingsvard, an internationally renowned sculptor with works in the permanent collections of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, and other venues. A lifelong advocate for gender equality, Greengard donated his monetary share of the 2000 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine to Rockefeller and, in partnership with generous supporters, established an annual award to recognize outstanding women scientists. The prize, which includes a $100,000 honorarium, is named for Greengard's mother, who died during his birth.

Chory is also the recipient of the 2018 Breakthrough Prize and the 2018 Gruber Genetics Prize. She is a member of nine scientific academies, including the National Academy of Sciences, the American Philosophical Society, and the Royal Society.

Register here to attend the Pearl Meister Greengard Prize virtual ceremony and learn more about the award. Registration is free and open to the public.

About The Rockefeller University

The Rockefeller University is the world's leading biomedical research university and is dedicated to conducting innovative, high-quality research to improve the understanding of life for the benefit of humanity. The university's unique approach to science has led to some of the world's most revolutionary and transformative contributions to biology and medicine. During Rockefeller's 119-year history, our scientists have won 25 Nobel Prizes, 23 Albert Lasker Medical Research Awards, and 20 National Medals of Science.

Media contact

Katherine Fenz, Media Relations Manager

[email protected]

SOURCE The Rockefeller University
A boardwalk that curves around a new cove in front of Crown's casino tower at Barangaroo has opened to the public for the first time in more than 100 years - unblocking another "missing link" in a future continuous walk around Sydney's harbour foreshore.

The NSW government on Thursday opened the waterfront precinct known as Watermans Cove as construction work forges ahead on the casino and later stages of the $6 billion Barangaroo project.

The precinct includes a pier and boardwalk that curves around a new cove in front of Crown's VIP casino tower. Credit:NSW government

"What was once a foreboding industrial wasteland is now a picture-perfect postcard celebrating great design, great architecture and great open spaces," Planning and Public Spaces Minister Rob Stokes said.

"It's liberating an area of the harbour that's been shut off for centuries, more than a hectare of public open space, mature trees, great places for people to get out and enjoy the great outdoors."
Mad at the World: A Life of John Steinbeck

By William Souder

W.W. Norton. 464 pp. $32

- - -

"There's an old saying that great writing is simple but not easy, and so it is. The search for that one plain but inobvious word that will do the work of five, the agony of untangling a complex idea that has become a mass of phrases in the writer's mind, the willingness to keep doing it over and over and over again until it is right - all of that plus some luck yields prose so clear that it seems a child could have written it."

That's William Souder writing about the author and conservationist Rachel Carson in his 2012 biography "On a Farther Shore." It also nicely describes the work of biographer Souder himself: painstakingly researched, psychologically nuanced, unshowy, lucid.

He is drawn in subject to American originals whose lives are marked by great success, self-doubt, and an eerie capacity and need for solitude. A fascination with and absorption in nature characterize Carson and the ornithologist and painter John James Audubon, the focus of Souder's 2005 Pulitzer Prize finalist "Under a Wild Sky."

In his newest biography, the smart, soulful and panoramic "Mad at the World," Souder has chosen a subject on the same continuum: John Steinbeck, another loner who, like Audubon and Carson, refined his craft through mature, dogged, self-punishing industry.

A key connecting thread between Souder's last book and the current one is the marine biologist Ed Ricketts, who was a literary model for Carson, a best friend and onetime co-author with Steinbeck, and the inspiration for the character Doc in Steinbeck's 1945 novel "Cannery Row." Steinbeck and Ricketts collaborated on "Sea of Cortez," a 1941 chronicle - as hedonistic as scientific - of a voyage in the Gulf of California to collect marine specimens. One can easily imagine Souder deep into his research on Carson, becoming smitten with the Monterey mystique around Steinbeck and Ricketts, and happily awakening to his next subject.

Audubon struggled to capture some of the vast variation and abundance of American bird life. Carson sounded the alarm over the dire insecticide threat to that abundance. And Steinbeck spied a pattern that bridged nature and sociology. Assiduously trundling through the writer's journals and letters, as well as his 33 books, Souder explains the particular importance of the "phalanx."

"Steinbeck eventually came to believe that you could not understand humankind by looking at individuals - any more than you could interpret a human being's behavior by looking at one of their cells," Souder explains. "The answers were all in the phalanx, the superorganism, the group unit." The phalanx, Steinbeck believed, is a repository of knowledge about all that humanity has endured, including, in his words, "destruction, war, migration, hatred, and fear."

Souder delineates the centrality of that notion to Steinbeck's storytelling. It is the magical ingredient that makes his characters gritty but also larger than life. In "The Grapes of Wrath," after all, what are the Joad family and the greater migrant surge of Dust Bowl "Okies"? Phalanxes.

So, in a lighter vein, are the paisanos of "Tortilla Flat" (1935) and the bittersweet ragtag assortment of intellectuals, tradesmen, prostitutes and derelicts in "Cannery Row." Steinbeck also describes what happens to those whom the societal phalanx rolls over, like the two hapless wanderers Lennie and George in the 1937 novella "Of Mice and Men." Once Souder highlights the phalanx theme, in fact, a reader could become obsessed with it, charting it all the way to the corrupt Long Island suburbs of Steinbeck's last novel, "The Winter of Our Discontent" (1961).

Despite fame, the glamour of movie and stage adaptations, and a fortune that somehow still always left him scrambling at tax time, Steinbeck - tall, rugged, charismatic - had trouble finding phalanxes of his own. Ricketts and the colorful crew around his Monterey, Calif., specimen lab may have been the most satisfying before Ricketts' 1948 death in a car accident, a loss that Steinbeck took hard.

His third marriage was the charm, yet as a father he demonstrated a neglect bordering on abuse that echoed his distance from his own father, whose middle-class status was somewhat precarious and who always seemed to be at the office.

Steinbeck worked brief stints as a war correspondent in Africa and Europe during World War II and decades later, in a hawkish vein, in Vietnam. In the public's mind, and even more so in Steinbeck's own, Ernest Hemingway loomed large as a figure of comparison. Steinbeck might be considered a more American-centered version of Hemingway as Papa elbowed his way around the world.

Souder explores the very real possibility that their behaviors and depression as men in their 60s might have parallels as well - both likely from head trauma in their war reporting and other endeavors. "Ironically," Souder writes, "the only time he and Steinbeck met - at a bar in New York in the spring of 1944 - Hemingway had interrupted the otherwise dull evening by breaking a walking stick over his own head to prove he could."

Out of touch, Steinbeck endeavored to reacquaint himself with America in the charming and bogus "Travels With Charley," an early-1960s quest, with his wife Elaine's standard poodle, into the heartland. Published just six years before his death at age 66, the book masqueraded as reporting but was mostly another reach of the imagination. Steinbeck made the trek in defiance of doctors' orders after recovering from what was probably a stroke. His explanation drips with droll, self-sabotaging stubbornness:

"I have always lived violently, drunk hugely, eaten too much or not at all, slept around the clock or missed two nights of sleeping, worked too hard and too long in glory, or slobbed for a time in utter laziness. I've lifted, pulled, chopped, climbed, made love with joy and taken my hangovers as a consequence, not as a punishment. I did not want to surrender fierceness for a small gain in yardage. My wife married a man; I saw no reason why she should inherit a baby."

The author remained humble before the phalanx of literature, as his characters are humbled by the phalanxes of life. Asked if he deserved the 1962 Nobel Prize for literature, he responded, "Frankly, no."

Steinbeck, of course, absolutely deserved the prize. He captured quintessentially American moments in indelible literary hues, from the demonic to the hopeless to the unstoppable. And Souder, in his own humble style, has brought a deeply human Steinbeck forth in all his flawed, melancholy, brilliant complication.

- - -

Kafka has written about books and the arts for The Washington Post, the Boston Globe and other publications.
Benaulim gangrape case: Goa CM faces flak for asking parents of victims why were their daughters out so late

Dalit woman gang raped in UP dies

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

Balrampur, Oct 01: Amid the widespread outrage over the alleged gang-rape and murder of a Dalit teen from Hathras in Uttar Pradesh, an yet another scheduled caste woman died in Balrampur district of the state while being rushed to a hospital after her rape by two youths.

Balrampur Superintendent of Police Dev Ranjan Verma said the incident happened in the Gaisari area of the district, where a 22-year-old Dalit woman, working in a private firm, failed to return home in time on Tuesday evening, prompting her parents to start looking for her.

Hathras gangrape: Plea in SC for CBI probe, transfer of trial to Delhi

The woman's parents said she did not respond to calls on her mobile phone, triggering panic among family members, the police said.

Hathras sealed ahead of Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi's visit|Oneindia News

The woman, however, returned home shortly later in an autorickshaw with an intravascular cannula, medically known as Vigo and used for administering injection, glucose or other fluids in the body, inserted in her hand, the police said, quoting her parents.

The girl looked dazed and in a serious condition, prompting her parents to rush her to a nearby hospital, but she died on the way, said the SP.

When the matter was reported to the police from the hospital, the parents alleged that their daughter was gang-raped, SP Verma said.

Acting on the parent's complaint, police identified the accused as Shahid and Sahil and arrested them, the SP said.

Reacting to the incident, Samajwadi Party supremo Akhilesh Yadav said, "After Hathras, now a daughter was harassed and gang-raped in Balrampur. The victim died in serious condition. Condolences!"

"The BJP government should commit no laxity in this case as was done in Hathras and arrest the accused immediately," he added with a hashtag #Balrampur... #NoMoreBJP" on his Tweeter handle.
For children with learning disabilities or other needs, receiving support at school looks a little different during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nine per cent of Richmond students have a special education designation from the Ministry of Education according to Jane MacMillan, director of instruction and inclusive learning at the Richmond School District. This designation identifies students as having special needs which can include an intellectual, physical, sensory, emotional or behavioural disability, a learning disability or the designation gifted. Some of those students receive additional support from educational assistants or other staff.

Availability of support has not changed (as a result of the pandemic) as students either return to school or access transitional learning, says MacMillan. A range of staff provide support remotely as well as for those attending in person.

MacMillan says staffing has been added across grade levels to support students. Schools are currently staffed for the number of students registered, and additional federal funding is being used in part to hire more teachers.

We have hired additional teachers to meet the needs of students in learning cohorts, including those accessing the transitional option at this time in both elementary and secondary (schools), says MacMillan.

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New Delhi:

India has revised 40 treaties for avoidance of double taxation so that the information exchanged with partner nations on tax matters can also be utilised for other purposes including criminal proceedings, Parliament was informed on Friday.

Treaty partner countries have been requested to modify the tax treaties, so as to explicitly include provisions that will enable information exchanged for tax purposes to be utilised for other purposes, including criminal proceedings in non-tax matters, Minister of State for Finance Santosh Kumar Gangwar said in a written reply to Rajya Sabha.

ALSO READ | Indo-Pak waters dispute: Pak asks India to suspend work on hydro projects in J-K

40 treaties for avoidance of double taxation have been revised accordingly, he said. In addition, Gangwar said, India has signed the Multilateral Convention on Mutual Administrative Assistance in Tax Matters, which also similarly facilitates exchange of information.

These developments enable use of such information by non-tax agencies, subject to agreement by the Competent Authorities of the Requested Contracting State, he said.

ALSO READ | Greenhouse gases: Govt gives go ahead to ratify 2nd commitment period of Kyoto Protocol

Replying to a separate question, Gangwar said the Enforcement Directorate has provisionally attached assets of worth Rs 9,298 crore in 2016. The minister said that as per estimate over 2,000 tonnes of gold is held by household, trusts and various institutions in India.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
MBABANE  The Sibebe Talent Search top five finalists have been revealed.

Since the competition commenced, local emaSwati entered with enthusiasm in their arts respect.

Last Friday morning, the organisation revealed Miyanda Mahlangu, Lil Answer Van De-Askens, Bongani Shiba, Asap-sz Thenjwayo and Luswiba STS as the finalists for the competition, which began in July.

Voting for the top five began on September 12 and ended on September 25.

According to the Eswatini Beverages Country Trade Marketing Manager, Phetsile Mswane, the five finalists would each receive E5 000 cash prizes to celebrate their outstanding talents as well as to boost their careers courtesy of the Sibebe Premium Lager, which would be handed to them in due course.

Mswane congratulated the finalists and further encouraged the public at large to keep their eyes glued to their pages for more information as they moved to the top two.

Search

Voting for the top two finalists will close tomorrow.

The brand had been looking for talented musicians, photographers, poets, actors and comedians as well as any other form of artistic talent they possessed for their search, which has been taking place online.

We have been looking for talented emaSwati to display their uniqueness and impress the nation to show us what they have got, she mentioned.

To make this a fair competition, Mswane shared that it was not a competition, where they had looked for professionals.

With the hope that COVID-19 would eventually be a thing of the past, we will, in future host an event showcasing the different talents. It also serves to be in our interests to involve the winners of the talent search in long term plans that have been halted by the pandemic for now, she said.

Excitement

Fans of the popular local brand expressed their excitement for the winners, who took the prizes home.

One of the finalists, Bongani Shiba also shared on his Facebook page to express his gratitude towards all those, who voted for him and adding that he was excited to be among the finalists.

Luswiba STS member Babutse Masuku could not believe making it to the top five finalists and further wished the other participants all the best towards the final competition.

Refreshed

Mswane said winners of the competition would also get the opportunity to participate in the new and refreshed events that the company will host in the future.

The brand is well known for hosting events such as the Sibebe Friday Night Live series, which was discontinued earlier this year due to the pandemic.
ANN ARBOR, MI - While Ann Arbor Public Schools remain in a remote learning mode for now, the district has established metrics the community must meet for students to return to the classroom.

At a Wednesday, Sept. 30 meeting, the Ann Arbor School Board approved using a COVID-19 data dashboard to determine a return to in-person learning. The dashboard is based on the number of new coronavirus cases, the number of cases per 100,000 or 1 million residents and the COVID-19 testing positivity rate.

The dashboard, to be updated weekly, will help the district determine when Ann Arbor Public Schools can begin phasing in a hybrid learning model. The districts targets for each metric are:

A downward trend in the number of daily Washtenaw County COVID-19 cases for 14-plus days

An aim of seven to 20 new cases per 1 million residents, while considering 20-40 cases (seven-day average)

An aim of one to five new cases per 100,000 residents, while considering 6-9 cases (seven-day average)

Less than 3% COVID-19 positivity testing rate for 14-plus days

Ann Arbor Public Schools has identified several key metrics it will use to guide its decision to return to the classroom.Image provided | AAPS

Right now, the district only meets the COVID-19 positivity rate for the county, which currently sits at 2%. Thats compared to 3.5% for the MI Safe Start Region 1 it is in and the states rate of 3.2%.

Washtenaw County has had 316 COVID-19 cases in the last two weeks, with 209 of those cases in AAPS zip codes, Superintendent Jeanice Swift said. That puts the county in the orange category signaling an accelerated spread, based on a metric developed by the Harvard Global Health Initiative to assess coronavirus risk levels.

That trend over the recent few days is something that causes concern, Swift said. Theres definitely something happening in the area.

The countys 13.1 cases per 100,000 residents is higher than its target, even if the district considers a range of six to nine cases, as the dashboard indicates. Washtenaw Countys 103 cases per 1 million residents also is well above the district target, as well as the 20-40 cases per 1 million range it would consider in a return to hybrid learning.
New Delhi, Oct 1 : The O.P. Jindal Global University celebrated its 11th anniversary and University Day, in a virtual event which marked its 11-year journey as the leading private educational institution in India.

The first academic session of O.P. Jindal Global University began on September 30, 2009, which is celebrated as the University Day every year.

The beginning on September 30, 2009 was modest with a little over 100 students, 10 faculty members and one school. Today, eleven years later, the JGU has 10 schools, over 6,600 students, over 725 full time faculty members and 1000 plus staff.

The virtual event saw the participation of top dignitaries from the academic world, including NAAC chairperson, Virander Singh Chauhan, Chief Executive & Secretary General of the Association of Commonwealth Universities, Joanna Newman, Founding Vice Chancellor of O.P. Jindal Global University, C. Raj Kumar, the Advisor to Vice Chancellor Sanjeev Sahni and Registrar, Dabiru Sridhar Patnaik. The event was marked by an awards ceremony to recognise the achievements of students, faculty and staff whose contributions have enabled the JGU to reach such stellar levels of excellence.

The Presidential Address on the occasion of the 11th University Day was given by Virander S. Chauhan, Chairman of the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC).

Chauhan said the autonomy of a university is crucial in ensuring that it becomes a space for critical thinking to create responsible young leaders. Commending JGU for its commitment towards serving society, Dr. Chauhan said, "JGU has an impressive and hardworking faculty and it has averaged one new school a year which is a remarkable achievement. University education sets you free, gives you choices, informs you about your rights and those of us who are fortunate to be educated at a good university have a certain amount of responsibility on our shoulders. Covid-19 has laid bare the protectionist sentiments of nations across the world, but the pluralistic principles of JGU serve as an example of how a university must inculcate values which promote brotherhood and globalism. JGU has set an example which other universities will look to follow." The ceremony was also attended by Joanna Newman, the Chief Executive and Secretary General of the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU), UK. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Newman said, "Challenging old ideas and having your own ideas challenged, is what makes attaining a university education all the more necessary, and at JGU, with its focus on critical thinking skills, students are exposed to this and a lot more.

"A university like JGU plays a critical role in fostering solutions to solve socio economic challenges, and improving the education ecosystem of the country. Students of JGU are looking at the impacts of poverty and hunger, at the impact of the climate crisis, public health, at conflict and hence JGU is part of an important education ecosystem that aims to tackle global challenges." Speaking at the event, C. Raj Kumar, Founding Vice Chancellor, O.P. Jindal Global University observed, "O.P. Jindal Global University embarked on a mission to serve society and humanity and has ensured that we always keep society before self. Students who study at JGU have developed critical thinking skills which have enabled them to look at global issues in a multi-dimensional manner so that they grow up to become responsible global citizens.

"The evolution of JGU over the years and to be recognised as a world class university in India is a testament to the passion and commitment of the faculty; trust and faith deposed by the students and their parents and the dedication and contribution of the staff members." Professor (Dr.) Raj Kumar also thanked the contribution of the Benefactor and founding Chancellor, Naveen Jindal, who helped ensure that the University functioned in a sphere of academic autonomy and stability. "Naveen Jindal took the initiative to build a world class university in India and the University had a very modest beginning. He ensured the financial stability, operational autonomy and academic freedom to help foster critical thinking and learning in the University.

Special emphasis was laid on philanthropy, and autonomy, and the fact that the university will be run in a not-for-profit manner. We deeply appreciate Chancellor Jindal's contribution to institution building.
I am a Democrat in a very red state. I work at a small service business where I interact with customers in person. Several of my co-workers wear bright red Make America Great Again caps. So, I bought a Joe Biden T-shirt to express my views. Recently, though, my boss, the owner of the company, issued a rule that customer-facing employees are not allowed to wear political garb. I cant wear my shirt, but the accounting guys in the back office can still wear their MAGA hats. I dont think this is fair. Do you? What about my First Amendment rights?

TOM

A little anecdote: Last week, I interviewed two plumbers for a small job at my house. They both seemed competent, had good references and their estimates were comparable. But one of them had a bumper sticker that rubbed me the wrong way. So, I hired the other guy.

I sympathize, in part, with the owner of your company. She or he probably wants to avoid alienating customers with political gear thats irrelevant to the services you provide. But youre right, too: Applying this rule only to certain employees is unfair. The company should prohibit political speech across the board or not at all.

Before you go roaring into your bosss office, though, make sure youve considered the power differential between you. Will you be risking your good standing at the company (or maybe your job itself) by complaining? Workers at small private companies typically have few legal protections.
By Online Desk

NEW DELHI: After cars of Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi were stopped at Greater Noida en route to Hathras, the Congress leaders proceeded on foot to meet with the family members of the gang-rape victim, party sources said on Thursday afternoon.

The brother-sister duo were, however, met with a posse of policemen who stopped their march along the Yamuna Expressway. "Just now police pushed me, lathicharged me and threw me to the ground. I want to ask, can only Modi Ji walk in this country? Can't a normal person walk? Our vehicle was stopped, so we started walking," Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said.

#WATCH Just now police pushed me, lathicharged me and threw me to the ground. I want to ask, can only Modi Ji walk in this country? Can't a normal person walk? Our vehicle was stopped, so we started walking: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi at Yamuna Expressway,on his way to #Hathras pic.twitter.com/nhu2iJ78y8  ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) October 1, 2020

According to the latest information reaching here, the Congress leaders have been taken into preventive custody. "We have stopped them here. The Epidemic Act is being violated. We will not allow them to proceed forward," said Noida ADCP Ranvijay Singh

#HathrasCase Cong MP Rahul Gandhi taken into preventive custody along with party gen secy Priyanka Gandhi at Yamuna Expressway while they were proceeding to Hathras to meet rape victim's family today @NewIndianXpress @TheMornStandard  Namita_TNIE (@Namita_TNIE) October 1, 2020

The 19-year-old Dalit girl's gang rape and unfortunate death has sparked a nationwide outrage.

Speaking to the media, Priyanka Gandhi said, "Around the same time last year, we were fighting for the Unnao daughter, the situation in UP has not changed in a year. UP CM must take responsibility for safety of women and ensure atrocities against them are stopped."

"The incident (Hathras gang rape) was big injustice and what the govt did after that in cremating the body was a bigger insult"

Sources said both the leaders left 10, Janpath, Delhi, the residence of the Congress president, and entered UP via the DND flyover, where a large number of Congress workers had gathered.

Traffic was disrupted in the area.

Congress leader Randeep Surjewala is accompanying the two senior leaders.

In Hathras, the district magistrate has imposed prohibitory orders under section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) and ordered sealing of the district borders to maintain peace.

The Gandhis, who have been critical of the BJP-led UP government for failing to protect the victim, want to express their condolences and show solidarity to the victim's family in Hathras.

A 19-year-old Dalit woman was allegedly raped by four upper-caste men in Hathras on September 14 and referred to the Safdarjung hospital in Delhi on Monday with spinal cord injuries, paralysis and cuts in her tongue.

She died around 3 am on Tuesday.

Earlier, Uttar Pradesh Congress media coordinator Lalan Kumar had said in Lucknow that a large number of party workers have gathered at Ghaziabad to receive the two leaders.

Meanwhile, Aligarh hospital's medical report of the woman did not confirm rape, claimed Superintendent of Police (SP) Vikrant Vir on Thursday.

ALSO READ | Minor consumes poison after being raped, threatened in UP's Baghpat; one held

"The medical report from the Aligarh Muslim University Medical College mentions that there were injuries but it does not confirm forced sexual intercourse. They're waiting for a report of the forensics. As of now, doctors say that they're not confirming rape," he told ANI.

Before the 19-year-old succumbed to her injuries at Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi on Tuesday, she was undergoing treatment at Aligarh Muslim University Medical College.

The SP added that the Special Investigation Team (SIT), formed by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, visited the village and met the victim's family on Wednesday.

"The three-member team inspected the crime spot. Investigation is on," the Hathras SP said.

Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh government on Wednesday announced that the kin will be given Rs 25 lakh as ex-gratia, a house, and a government job for one of the family members.

The government has said the matter will be heard in a fast-track court.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Adityanath also spoke to the family of the victim through videoconferencing.

Meanwhile, Congress kept on its attack on Yogi Adityanath government on Thursday, saying that the "jungle raj" that has spread in Uttar Pradesh has no limits and the time for accountability is now.

The Congress made the statement on the backdrop of a Dalit woman's death in Balrampur district after being allegedly raped by two men.

This news came amid the nationwide outrage over the Hathras case.

Several Congress leaders, including former president Rahul Gandhi, reacted to the two incidents.

Alleging that "atrocities" on women and the government's brazenness is continuing, Rahul Gandhi said, "Did not give respect when alive and also snatched the dignity in death."

His tweet in Hindi referenced the Hathras gang-rape victim's family being allegedly denied the right to properly perform her last rites.

"BJP's slogan is not 'save girl child', it is 'hide facts, save power'," he added, using the hashtag 'Balrampurhorror'.

Gandhi was referring to the Centre's scheme 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao'.

ALSO READ | No place for Dalit and tribal girls in India, says NCRB data; UP fares worst

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Congress general secretary in-charge of UP, said a gruesome incident like Hathras has taken place in Balrampur too.

The woman was raped and her legs and back broken, she said.

"In Azamgarh, Baghpat, Bulandshahr, girls were brutalised," the Congress general secretary said in a tweet in Hindi.

"The jungle raj spread in UP has no limits. Law and order is not run by marketing and speeches. This is time for accountability of the Uttar Pradesh chief minister. The public wants accountability," Priyanka Gandhi added.

Congress' chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala also lashed out at the Yogi Adityanath government over the Balrampur incident, asking if the "law is alive or dead".

"Is it a government of the Constitution or of criminals," Surjewala said and asked why the UP CM doesn't resign.

Both the accused in the Balrampur incident have been arrested, police said.

The young woman was cremated on Wednesday, the same day as the Hathras teen whose last rites were conducted in the dead of the night around 3 am.

(With Agencies Inputs)
The lives of thousands of accident victims could be saved by injecting a common drug that helps stop bleeding at the scene of the incident, a study has found.

Experts from the UK and France found that an injection of tranexamic acid reduces traumatic injury death rates by up to a third  if administered within an hour.

The team proved that the drug can be successfully administered as an intramuscular injection  like a flu jab  rather than the traditional intravenous line.

The finding may be of most benefit in low- and middle- income nations, the team said, where first responders are less likely to be trained to set up intravenous lines.

In fact, these countries see more that 90 per cent of the world's trauma deaths  around 80 per cent of which occur before the patient even arrives at hospital.

The lives of thousands of accident victims could be saved by injecting a common drug that helps stop bleeding at the scene of the incident, a study has found (stock image)

'Intramuscular tranexamic acid is like a vaccine against trauma death,' paper author and epidemiologist Ian Roberts of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine told the Times.

'An urgent injection of tranexamic acid is life-saving after serious injury. but patients are not being treated fast enough,' he added.

'A rapid intramuscular injection given by first responders or paramedics could mean the difference between life and death.'

Tranexamic acid is already used to stabilise trauma patients  but it is traditionally administered by an intravenous line  which takes longer to set up and work.

'At the moment in the NHS tranexamic acid is used but patients arent getting it quick enough. Its most effective when given within an hour of injury, and the hours just disappear so quickly,' Professor Roberts told the Times.

'It takes time for the ambulance to arrive, time for paramedics to orientate themselves to whats going on. It takes a little time to put in an intravenous line  sometimes they just say, well, lets leave that for the hospital.'

'This way, you can just inject it intramuscularly and forget about it.'

Every quarter-hour delay a patient experiences in getting tranexamic acid reduces the drug's lifesaving potential by around 10 per cent, Professor Roberts explained  adding that only 3 per cent of UK trauma victims receive it within one hour.

Experts from the UK and France found that an injection of tranexamic acid, pictured, reduces traumatic injury death rates by up to a third  if administered within an hour (stock image)

In their study, Professor Roberts and colleagues treated 30 bleeding trauma patients who had been presented at London-based hospitals.

Each of the patients were given their first dose of tranexamic acid intravenously  but the second was administered by intramuscular injection.

The team found that the drug was rapidly absorbed from the muscles into the patients' bloodstream  reaching the required level within under 15 minutes in all cases  with no local side-effects except for some redness and swelling.

'I think we can start using it this way immediately,' Professor Roberts told the Times.

'If you could just get to the scene of an injury  somebody lying on the floor by the road, or at the foot of a ladder  you just do the basics, sort out airway, breathing.'

'Then you could very quickly give an injection of the intramuscular dose of tranexamic acid  and its absorbed into the blood so quickly that you get therapeutic effect really, really quickly.'

The team is also collaborating with the British Armed Forces to develop a tranexamic acid auto-injector  which would function much like a allergy sufferers' EpiPen  and could also be administered to the wounded on battlefields.

'A simple auto injector device that could be used by lay first responders or police officers  before the ambulance arrives  could save thousands of lives each year,' Professor Roberts told the Times.

'It could also be used by wounded soldiers either on themselves or a buddy.'

The full findings of the study were published in the journal British Journal of Anaesthesia.
NEW HAVEN  Investigators Thursday continued to investigate a homicide Wednesday night in the Fair Haven neighborhood, officials said.

Capt. Anthony Duff said the homicide investigation began around 11:25 p.m. Wednesday as officers responded to a report of gunfire on Exchange Street between Ferry and East Pearl streets.

Officers canvassed the area and found an adult male gunshot victim on the front porch of an Exchange Street residence. New Haven Fire and American Medical Response arrived to treat the victim, Duff said. Medical responders pronounced the victim deceased at the scene.

Detectives from the departments Major Crimes Unit and the Bureau of Investigation responded to the scene, Duff said.

Police continued to hold a crime scene into Thursday morning, Duff said.

Police maintained a presence on the narrow residential block Thursday morning after the street was reopened to traffic. The home on Exchange Street, across the street from the back of Fair Haven School, was blocked off with police tape.

Detective Josh Smereczynski of the Bureau of Investigation was one of the officers on scene. He and another officer were looking through bushes and tall grass to the side of the home; he said they were looking for evidence.

At the departments biweekly Compstat meeting, Assistant Chief Karl Jacobson said police believe the man did not live at the Exchange St. house, as residents there did not know him.

Sgt. Michael Fumiatti, the district manager for Fair Haven, said he and representatives of Yale Child Study would canvass the area in the coming days, seeking to help any children dealing with the trauma of the incident.

Jacobson also noted that graduates from the departments clergy academy would visit the neighborhood in the coming days to speak with residents.

Wednesdays homicide marks the citys 17th of the year. At this point last year, there had been eight homicides, according to the Police Department.

Anyone with information is asked to call New Haven police at 203-946-6304. Callers can remain anonymous.
Nebraskans are known for being honest, hard-working people who are fiscally responsible. This is a big part of how weve grown the Good Life and prospered through the years. Nebraskans are not only industrious, but we are also open-hearted and generous, charitably giving to churches and nonprofits. These strong civic and family values are at the core of who we are. Its important that we never lose sight of them and guard against efforts to undermine them.

Attempts to legalize Indian casino gambling are a perennial threat to our values. Nebraskans have repeatedly rejected attempts to bring casinos to our state for a variety of reasons. These include more poverty due to gambling losses and the human toll of increased child abuse, neglect and crimes such as theft.

First, casino gambling transfers wealth from lower-income families to the well-off instead of helping working families expand their household incomes and build real wealth. Through the mirage of easy winnings, casinos discourage financial responsibility and spread false hope. As with families, casinos also take money away from Main Street businesses and nonprofits, as people spend their discretionary income at the slots instead of investing it in the community.
It is always a particular pleasure to visit our sister nation Cyprus and converse with my dear friend and colleague, Nikos Christodoulides.



Today holds another reason to be joyful, as tomorrow is the 60th anniversary of Cyprus independence.



I therefore had the opportunity to express my fondest wishes, as well as those of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, for the freedom and prosperity of Cypriot Hellenism and all Cypriot people.



I must assure you that, as you are well aware, the Cyprus issue was and will remain a top priority for Greek foreign policy.



We continue to support the Republic of Cyprus.



We are working towards an end to the Turkish occupation and the achievement of a comprehensive, agreed and viable solution to the Cyprus problem, a solution based on the Resolutions of the UN Security Council and the .U. acquis.



Today's meeting with Nikos was part of the continuous coordination between Greece and Cyprus at all levels, particularly in view of tomorrows highly important European Council meeting, which will be called upon to examine the entire array of EU-Turkish relations  and to do so given the obligation of solidarity to EU Member States, particularly when their sovereignty and sovereign rights are being violated by third countries.



This is indeed a violation of European sovereignty and European sovereign rights.



Unfortunately, Turkey's illegal activities in the broader region are ongoing and, in fact, escalating and expanding: from Caucasus to Libya, the Aegean Sea, Cyprus, the Eastern Mediterranean, Syria and Iraq.



Greece has acknowledged that the withdrawal of the Oruc Reis was a first step towards de-escalation.



We hope that this step will pave the way for exploratory talks between Greece and Turkey, aiming at the delimitation of an Exclusive Economic Zone and continental shelf.



Greece has repeatedly stressed that it will always be open to dialogue, but in the context of International Law and the Law of the Sea.



Therefore, it remains to be seen whether this first step will be followed up on and whether the Turkish side will prove consistent -because, as you here in Cyprus are well aware, Turkey is the violator par excellence of International Law in our region.

Furthermore, everyone is aware that the illegal actions of Turkish vessels in the maritime zones of Cyprus remain ongoing.



Greece remains a firm supporter of Cyprus in its request for the addition of further natural persons and entities  those involved in Turkey's ongoing illegal activities in the Cypriot EEZ  to the European list of sanctions.



This is, after all, the European framework agreed upon.



At the same time, it is necessary to maintain the prospect of financial sanctions against Turkey if it continues its illegal activities.



Greece has requested a list of measures so that Turkey stands aware that there will be consequences if it continues its illegal activities.



Of course, we remain hopeful that it will not prove necessary for these measures to be enforced.



Nikos and I also discussed the escalating tensions in Nagorno-Karabakh.



Greece has expressed its readiness to contribute to the immediate cessation of hostilities, which I had the opportunity to relay to our Armenian colleague, with whom Nikos and I are also working in the context of the trilateral cooperation scheme.



I also reiterated that we deplore any third-party interference that stokes tensions, and that Turkey ought to abstain from actions and statements in that direction.



Peaceful resolution of disputes in the context of international law is the only path to regional security and stability.



Finally, I had the opportunity to brief Nikos in detail on the visit to Greece by our Emirati counterpart, Sheikh Abdullah, whom you are expecting tomorrow here in Cyprus, as well as the visit by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.



The US Secretary of State's second visit to Greece within a year  and, in fact, a few days after his visit to Cyprus  is an important event; this was my sixth meeting with him, second in number only to my meetings with Nikos, I believe.



These visits reaffirm the role played by Greece and Cyprus as pillars of stability in our sensitive region. Greece and Cyprus are working methodically with Israel and the US to promote security and prosperity in the region, in the context of the 3+1 scheme.





Our coordination - that is, between Greece and Cyprus- is a potent weapon and a very good omen in view of tomorrows European Council meeting.



We, in turn, will make every effort for the achievement of our common goals.



Dear Nikos, congratulations on tomorrows anniversary. Once again, my warm thanks for the reception and your hospitality.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 1)  The new chief of embattled Philippine Health Insurance Corp. is against privatizing the agency, saying it will only send a "wrong signal" that people distrust government officials.

During the joint hearing Thursday of the House committees on public accounts and good governance and public accountability, PhilHealth chief Dante Gierran opposed recommendations from lawmakers and even from President Rodrigo Duterte to privatize the state health insurer that has been hounded by numerous allegations of irregularities.

"We respect the wisdom of the President, pero kung i-privatize po, ano ang mangyayari sa ating mga miyembro?" said Gierran, who was appointed in August to lead the agency after the resignation of Gen. Ricardo Morales.

"Are we telling the people of the Philippines, the world, that only people in the private sector can work well, na hindi tayo marunong magtrabaho ng tama? It will send a wrong signal that people in the government cannot be trusted," he added.

[Translation: We respect the wisdom of the President, but if we will privatize, what will happen to our members? Are we telling the world that only people in the private sector can work well, that public officials do not know how to get the job done? It will send a wrong signal that people in the government cannot be trusted.]

Duterte previously floated the idea of either abolishing or privatizing the PhilHealth, but said he will first attempt to reorganize the agency by deeming all its personnel resigned.

Justice Undersecretary Adrian Sugay, who represented Task Force PhilHealth before the panel, said they also did not go as far as recommending that PhilHealth be abolished. The DOJ-led inter-agency task force was assigned to investigate, conduct lifestyle checks, and preventively suspend PhilHealth personnel.

"The report was more of recommending reforms in the process of PhilHealth. We would not have gone as far as saying that we do not need PhilHealth," Sugay said.

'Do not spare Duque from PhilHealth mess'

Meanwhile, the joint House panel on Wednesday also asked the Department of Justice to include in its findings the liability of Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, who was dropped in the initial list of officials recommended to face complaints.

"You really have to study the role of Secretary Duque. How can you be a chairman of the board na lagi mong sasabihin, 'wala ako diyan, executive officers lang', pero yung taong matagal nang nandiyan, alam na lahat ng kalokohan pinapabyaan lang," Cavite Rep. Jesus Crispin Remulla told Justice Undersecretary Adrian Sugay, who represented the inter-agency task force.

[Translation: You really have to study the role of Secretary Duque. How can you be a chairman of the board and keep on saying, 'I'm not part of that, it's only the executive officers,' when the person who has long been tenured and aware of the controversies would just let them go on.]

Duque served as president of PhilHealth from 2001 to 2005; its chairman from 2005 to 2010; then reappointed to the post in 2017.

The task force has yet to formally file complaints against the officials, particularly those involved in the controversial interim reimbursement scheme of the agency.

The task force is also looking into other fraud allegations, including the questionable procurement of IT equipment of the agency and the potential collusion of the private sector in other schemes.
An unknown number of Bay Area residents  even in areas spared by the recent rash of wildfires  received erroneous emergency alerts Thursday warning of imminent fire danger.

Residents of Solano, Marin and Napa counties  and possibly others  mistakenly received messages intended to alert only a few Napa County residents of danger posed by the Glass Fire raging on more than 56,000 acres north of Santa Rosa.

The blunder was traced to a glitch in the Napa County warning system, but not before causing widespread confusion.

Public officials in Marin County, Fairfield and Vallejo were all forced to send follow-up messages to their residents, clarifying there was no immediate fire danger in their jurisdictions.

There are no active fires in Fairfield, Fairfields Police Department tweeted.

Napa County remedied the blunder by sending a second alert with the correct locations actually under threat.

The Glass Fire is burning in areas surrounding Calistoga and St. Helena, the county wrote. The town of Yountville, city of Napa, city of American Canyon and surrounding unincorporated area are not under an evacuation warning or order.

Napa County blamed the initial error on a mapping problem in the federally operated Integrated Public Alert and Warning System, or IPAWS.

The hard lesson learned for us is the limitations of the IPAWS feature designed to keep the message in a targeted area allowed bleed over to our neighboring counties, said Janet Upton, spokeswoman for the Napa Office of Emergency Services.

The messages were sent out in the spirit of being proactive, said Henry Wofford, spokesman for the Napa County Sheriffs Office. Thursdays message blast may have missed its mark, but residents should still take emergency alerts and evacuation orders seriously, Wofford said.

This fire has been extremely unpredictable and has the tendency to spread quickly. If you get an alert, it means there is a direct threat to life, he said.

Fire Tracker Follow wildfires across the state Latest updates on wildfires burning across Northern and Southern California

Only seven people in Napa County have the authority to send the alert messages, which originated from the countys Office of Emergency Services.

I didnt push the button! Wofford said.

Law enforcement agencies in Solano and Marin counties quickly sought to reassure residents caught off guard by the alerts. The counties updated their social media accounts and websites to correct the mistake.

There are no active fires burning in Solano County and no evacuation orders, Solano County posted on Twitter in a post that mirrored one by Marin County.

Nora Mishanec is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: nora.mishanec@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @NMishanec
This is a horrible new precedent, Mark S. Zaid, a lawyer who specializes in national security and whistleblower cases, said in an email. Before this case the U.S. Government had never pursued anyone for simply sharing a draft manuscript with lawyers, literary agents or publishers, even though by law it was improper to do so. As long as the manuscript was approved before actual publication, the U.S. Government was satisfied. But now the rules have changed, and any dissemination can create liability. 
FARMINGTON  A Probate Court judge has appointed a guardian ad litem to represent the interests of Jennifer Dulos for a hearing this month on her estranged husbands estate.

The guardian ad litem, Peter J. Alter, of the Glastonbury-based Alter & Pearson LLC, will represent the New Canaan woman who vanished May 24, 2019 after dropping off her five children at school.

The focus of the Oct. 22 hearing in Farmington Probate Court will be whether Judge Evelyn Daly determines Jennifer Dulos has died.

It would be an unprecedented ruling, according to one attorney involved in her estranged husbands estate who says no one who has been missing for less than seven years has ever been declared dead in Connecticut.

Daly is expected to hear arguments on whether Jennifer Dulos predeceased her estranged husband so the administrator of his estate can access a $194,000 Individual Retirement Account.

Fotis Dulos, who died from an apparent suicide in January while facing murder and other charges in his wifes death and disappearance, did not name a beneficiary of the account. Under state law, an IRA goes to the persons spouse if no beneficiary is named.

Attorney Christopher Hug, the administrator of the estate, needs Daly to determine that Jennifer Dulos predeceased her husband so the money can be used to pay creditors.

Jennifer Dulos mother, Gloria Farber, who has been caring for the couples five children since the disappearance, is the estates largest creditor.

Earlier this year, a Hartford Superior Court judge awarded Farber nearly $2 million in lawsuits she filed against Fotis Dulos for unpaid business loans her family made to his real estate development company.

Farber and other family members have stipulated that Jennifer Dulos has died based on arrest and search warrants and are not opposing the determination of death, attorneys said.

Hug also wants Daly to agree to a $137,500 settlement offered by criminal defense attorneys Norm Pattis and Kevin Smith to resolve a lawsuit alleging they improperly kept a $250,000 fee for representation paid by Fotis Dulos two weeks before he died.

Farbers attorneys are contesting the settlement, claiming Pattis and Smith are seeking to be paid more than $100,000 for about two weeks of work.

That money would go to the estate to pay debts Fotis Dulos racked up as he was fending off foreclosures, lawsuits filed by Farber and criminal charges in his wifes death and disappearance.
The founder of Stanbic IBTC plc, Atedo Peterside, has said Nigerias democracy is endangered in this political dispensation.

Mr Peterside was recently inaugurated by President Muhammadu Buhari to chair the national steering committee which will oversee the development of Nigerias Agenda 2050 and Medium-Term National Development Plan.

Both the Nigeria Agenda 2050 and Medium Term National Development Plan are to succeed Vision 20:2020 and the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan from 2017  2020.

According to the presidency, the new development plan will lift 100 million Nigerians out of poverty by 2030.

Mr Peterside, who spoke during the 2020 edition of The Platform, an annual forum for national discourse organised in commemoration of October 1, decried the inability to sustain the legacy of Nigerias previous leaders.

The programme, aired on Channels TV on Thursday, was held virtually owing to constraints caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

He said the efforts of people of his generation to ensure Nigerias democracy is being undermined with sham elections in this era.

Activism for my generation only deliver democracy. Today, that democracy that was delivered is in danger because we are slowly we decide if and when we want to have free and fair elections. Free and fair election should not be in Edo. There must be free and fair elections everywhere.

Mr Peterside called on the federal government and all security agencies to make conscious efforts to prevent the looming destruction of Nigerias democracy.

You cannot have one set of rules for Edo and any different kind for Kogi or somewhere else. We need the federal government, the IG of Police, the army We should put pressure on all these people that the democracy we fought so hard for, we must not destroy it. The easiest way to destroy democracy is to have sham elections where those who did not win assume office.

Also, he urged the youth to fight for the sustainability of Nigerias democracy, calling for the disruption of the existing status quo.

The best riggers are those with the most money and with the most clouts, majorly the elderly people. So we have to dismantle all that to bring the best ideas into elections, he said.
Almost a year ago, a former Russia specialist on the National Security Council warned Congress about Russias nefarious intentions in American politics. The goal of the Russians in 2016, Fiona Hill told the House Intelligence Committee, was to put whoever became president under a cloud.

Not only did the Russians succeed  it was overcast before President Donald Trump even took office  but they also managed to damage the credibility and reputation of the very agency that is supposed to protect against foreign interference in U.S. elections: the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

In her testimony last year, Hill warned that the opposition research commissioned by the Democratic Party against Trump and later used by the FBI to obtain a surveillance warrant against a campaign official named Carter Page would be a perfect opportunity for the Kremlin to inject disinformation into American political discourse. On Friday, the Justice Department declassified documents that show the FBI investigated the primary source of the dossier for being a Russian agent.

One of those documents is a summary of the bureaus investigation into a researcher at the Brookings Institution in 2009 and 2010. It says that in late 2008 he approached other researchers there who were joining the incoming administration of Barack Obama and asked if they wanted to make a little extra money once they were in their new positions and had access to classified information. The FBI later learned that in 2006 the primary source had contacts with known Russian intelligence officers at the Russian embassy in Washington.

In 2010, the FBI closed its investigation because the primary source had apparently left the United States. But the bureau left open the prospect of reopening the probe if the primary source ever returned to the U.S.

These facts alone are not dispositive. The former British spy who compiled the opposition research dossier on Trumps campaign, Christopher Steele, has said that he is able to distinguish between real and fake information. Its also possible that his source, the former Brookings Institution researcher, was acting as a kind of double agent.

That said, much of the material in Steeles reporting could not be corroborated, wrote Justice Department Inspector General Michael Horowitz in his scathing 2019 report. The limited information that was corroborated related to time, location, and title information, much of which was publicly available, he said. When the Justice Department declassified the three-day interview with Steeles primary source, it showed that he had disavowed much of the information in Steeles dossier.

There were other signs that Steele was being played. Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe informed the Senate Judiciary Committee this week that the U.S. government received a report that Russian intelligence surmised in July 2016 that Hillary Clinton had approved a campaign plan to stir up a scandal against U.S. Presidential candidate Donald Trump by tying him to Putin and the Russians hacking of the Democratic National Committee. Ratcliffe says the intelligence community does not know the accuracy of this allegation or the extent to which the Russian intelligence analysis may reflect exaggeration or fabrication.

Nonetheless, it was important enough for then-CIA director John Brennan to brief the president about it, according to Ratcliffe, and for U.S. intelligence officials to forward an investigation referral to the FBI in September 2016. Earlier this year, the intelligence community declassified a series of footnotes to the Horowitz report that showed other U.S. intelligence officers had warned that Steeles dossier may contain Russian disinformation.

One might expect the FBIs leadership to be deeply embarrassed about all of this. People such as former FBI Director James Comey have been warning for years about the danger of Russias disinformation campaign against the public. The 2017 intelligence community assessment of Russias interference in the election of the previous year includes an entire section on Russias English-language propaganda station, RT.

But in a hearing on Wednesday before the Senate Judiciary Committee, Comey said he had no recollection that Steeles primary source had been investigated for being a Russian spy or that U.S. intelligence officers referred the intelligence on Russias assessment of Clintons campaign strategy to the FBI.

None of this is to say that the FBI was colluding with Russia. Rather, it suggests that in their panic over the possibility of a Trump victory in 2016, FBI leaders  much like many cable news networks  embraced shoddy and now discredited intelligence to make a case against his campaign. The signs were there that Steeles research was bunk, but the bureau ignored them.

None of this information gets Trump off the hook, either. He has aided and abetted Russian disinformation by repeatedly denying that Russia interfered in the 2016 election. This gives the Russians cover and encouragement to do it all over again this year, which is exactly what the intelligence community has been warning about.

In this respect, Trump himself, like the FBI, is a victim of Russian disinformation.

This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners.

Eli Lake is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering national security and foreign policy. He was the senior national security correspondent for the Daily Beast and covered national security and intelligence for the Washington Times, the New York Sun and UPI..
Patna, Oct 1 : A BJP leader who was involved in the real estate business, was shot dead in Patna's Beur area on Thursday.

The deceased identified as Jesh Kumar Jha alias Raju Baba had gone for a morning walk when two unidentified men wearing face masks opened fire at him. He died on the spot.

The incident took place at Sita Ram Marriage Hall around 6.30 a.m. The attackers fled from the crime scene brandishing their firearms.

Jha was block president of the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Ashok Mishra, City SP (west) Patna, said the reason for the murder is yet to be ascertained. However, there could be a possibility of dispute among family members.

"We are not ruling out personal enmity with others too. Police are looking into all aspects. The deceased was involved in the property business," Mishra said.

A month ago, around half a dozen attackers had opened fire in the office of another property dealer, Tuntun Gop in the same area.
FORMER RTE producer Kieran Creaven has been charged with 17 child abuse offences in Ireland and outside the State.

The 58-year-old was arrested at his home at Adelaide Street, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin this morning. He was charged at 8.15am with 17 offences.

His charges are:

Two counts of sexual assault of a child outside the State in 2014.

Three counts of sexual exploitation of a child outside the State in 2014.

Three counts of sexually exploiting a child in Ireland in 2017.

Five counts of possessing of child pornography in 2017.

Four counts of using IT and communication technology for the purpose of facilitating child sexual exploitation, inside and outside of the State in 2017.

He appeared at Dublin District Court before Judge Bryan Smyth.

Following a contested bail hearing, Judge Smyth granted bail with several conditions. They included a ban on Mr Creaven using social media and a requirement for a 10,000 independent surety to be approved  due to the seriousness of the charges.

However, he was unable to take up bail and has been held in custody until the conditions are met.

Detective Garda Johanna Doyle told Judge Bryan Smyth the accuseds reply to the charges was: No response until Ive spoken to my solicitor.

Detective Garda Doyle, who is attached to the Online Child Exploitation Unit, objected to bail, due to the seriousness of the case and fears he would leave the jurisdiction.

She said some of the charges carried a possible sentence of life imprisonment.

She alleged a search was carried out at Mr Creavens home in November 2017 which resulted in a discovery of pictures and videos of children. A large number of electronic devices were seized, she said.

Forensic examinations were carried out, she told the court.

It was alleged there were a number of extremely graphic videos and he had been sexually exploiting children via Skype.

It was alleged he was making payments and sending phone credit to girls and had two Facebook accounts to sexually exploit children.

There was evidence he travelled regularly for work to various jurisdictions including the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia and Thailand, Detective Garda Doyle said.

She feared he could travel outside the jurisdiction beyond the reach of An Garda Siochana.

She agreed with defence solicitor Luke Staines that his client had attended his legal representatives offices and knew the charges were coming. He had been willing to meet gardai to be charged by appointment.

Detective Garda Doyle said, however, an operational decision was made on Thursday morning to arrest him. Mr Staines put it to her his client had no reason to leave, and he had been entitled to go to other countries.

Pleading for bail, the defence solicitor acknowledged his client faces extremely serious charges, but, he submitted, there was no evidence he was unlikely to show up to court.

He argued that this criteria for a bail objection had not been met.

He had also been willing to meet the gardai and had remained in regular contact with his solicitor, Mr Staines submitted.

He said his client was of limited means.

Judge Bryan Smyth said the situation has moved on now that Mr Creaven has been charged, and there should be some form of surety.

Mr Staines replied that this could prove difficult given the nature of the charges.

Judge Smyth said there was no real evidence Mr Creaven was a flight risk or would interfere with witnesses, which left the objection about the seriousness of the charges.

He set bail in Mr Creavens own bond of 500 and a 10,000 independent surety has to be approved by the district court.

Once bail is taken up, he must sign on daily at Dun Laoghaire Garda station between 9am and 9pm.

He agreed to impose a condition sought by Detective Garda Doyle that Mr Creaven not use any social media platform, in particular Facebook and Skype.

He has to surrender his passport within 48 hours of taking up bail, and notify gardai of any change of address.

Mr Creaven, wearing a black leather jacket, white shirt, black trousers and black shoes, addressed the court briefly to confirm his local garda station was in Dun Laoghaire

He was remanded in custody with consent to bail to appear at Cloverhill District Court on October 8 next for a book of evidence to be served on him.

Judge Smyth noted the Director of Public Prosecutions has given a direction for trial on indictment, meaning his case will be later sent forward to the Circuit Court.

Legal aid was granted to the unemployed former broadcaster who has not yet indicated how he will plead.
Vice-President of the Republican Party of Armenia Armen Ashotyan posted the following on his Facebook page:

A short while ago, the Executive Committee of Centrist Democrat International (CDI) ended its session, which I also participated in. A special resolution devoted to the Artsakh conflict was considered and adopted during the session.

Among other evaluations, one of the worlds largest political families called on immediately returning to the negotiations within the scope of the OSCE Minsk Group, with the central role of Russia, France and the US as the co-chairs.

The CDI also called on the European Union to play a more active role in the settlement of the conflict and called on third parties to refrain from direct and indirect military interference in the conflict.
Trump v. Biden first 2020 presidential debate: Here's what to expect

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President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden will face off tonight in the first of three presidential debates ahead of the election on Nov. 3.

The first debate, taking place at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, will be moderated by "Fox News Sunday" host Chris Wallace and will consist of six 15-minute segments.

Wallace announced the topics for the debate last week. The candidates will be asked about their respective records, the Supreme Court, the novel coronavirus, the economy, race and violence in American cities, and the integrity of the election.

Fox News producer Pat Ward said Tuesday that during negotiations for the first debate the Biden campaign requested two 30-minute breaks, which was turned down by the Trump campaign. For its part, the Trump campaign asked that a third party inspect debaters' ears for electronic devices or transmitters. While Trump consented to the inspection, Biden reversed his decision.

Ward said on Twitter Tuesday afternoon: Joe Bidens handlers several days ago agreed to a pre-debate inspection for electronic earpieces but today abruptly reversed themselves and declined." Trump had also demanded that both he and Biden take a drug test before or after the debate.

Due to COVID-19, the first debate will not have many of the characteristics viewers typically associate with presidential face-offs. According to Politico, the two sides have decided to forego the traditional pre-debate handshake in light of the virus.

Rather than a large audience filled with supporters of both candidates, the debate will feature a scaled-back audience with 75 to 80 people, all of whom will undergo testing for coronavirus beforehand. In addition, the traditional post-debate spin room will go by the wayside in light of the pandemic.

Other than the aforementioned modifications, the evening will proceed much like debates have in the past. Neither candidate nor Wallace will wear a mask and a coin toss determined who will receive the first question. Trump won the coin toss. Mirroring the two candidates positions on the ideological spectrum, Trump will stand on the right and Biden will stand on the left.

Recent news stories will almost certainly come up at the debate, even if they are not brought up by the moderator. The New York Times report about Trump's taxes and a Senate report detailing millions of questionable transactions between Bidens son, Hunter, and foreign associates are two examples of stories that broke in the past week after Wallace had already selected debate topics.

Leading up to the debate, there was much discussion as to whether Biden should show up. Many big names in the Democratic Party, including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, have argued that the Democratic nominee should not debate the president.

Pelosi cited her opinion that Trump has not comported himself in a way that anybody should and has no association with truth, evidence, data and facts as the justification for why Biden should refuse to debate him. Joe Lockhart, a CNN commentator who was a press secretary for former President Bill Clinton, made a similar argument, proclaiming that Biden should not give his opponent an opportunity to take the truth and destroy it.

Trumps team had called for an additional presidential debate at the beginning of September since many states have already begun early voting. Biden, however, did not agree to a fourth debate ahead of early voting.

In the past, the most memorable debate moments are often those that caught one of the candidates by surprise. In 2000, Democratic nominee Al Gore awkwardly stood up and walked toward his Republican opponent, future President George W. Bush, as he answered a question at a town hall-style debate. Bush nodded at Gore as the audience laughed in amusement.

In 2016, Hillary Clinton brought up Trumps past statements about former Miss Universe Alicia Machado, leading the candidate to go on the defensive about his comments for days following the debate. Presidential debates can change the narrative of a race for multiple days and sometimes, they can irreversibly change voters perceptions of political candidates.

In a 1988 presidential debate, Democratic nominee Michael Dukakis gave a response to a hypothetical question asking whether he would support the death penalty if his wife was raped and murdered that many saw as emotionless. NBC News later described the candidates response as the debate answer that ruined Michael Dukakis in 1988.

Shortly after the debate, Dukakis lost to Republican George H.W. Bush, the most recent candidate to win more than 400 electoral votes. Four years later, one of the debates reflected negatively on Bush the senior, who checked his watch as if he did not want to be there and struggled to answer an audience members question. That fall, George H.W. Bush became the most recent incumbent president to lose reelection.

In 2016, the most noteworthy debate moment came when Trump refused to definitively say that he would accept the results of the election. His opponent, Hillary Clinton, described Trumps response as horrifying. However, following that election, it was Clinton who did not accept the election results.

The first presidential debate of 2020 is expected to boast a large audience, with a Monmouth Poll finding that 74% of voters are planning on tuning in. The debate will broadcast on Fox News at 9 p.m. Eastern time and will last for 90 minutes.

Following a vice presidential debate in Salt Lake City next week, Trump and Biden will debate in Nashville, Tennessee, on Oct. 15 and in Miami, Florida, on Oct. 22.
A man who participated in an inmate assault inside Niagara Detention Centre earned his 10th violence-related conviction as well as a word of advice from a local judge Thursday.

For somebody your age to have this many assaults on his record, I wouldnt be surprised if the Crown eventually brings a dangerous offender application to keep you in jail for life, Judge Harvey Brownstone told 28-year-old Richard Tabora.

A dangerous offender designation could result in the offender being jailed indefinitely.

I suggest you do something with your temper because you are a prime candidate for a life sentence one of these days, the judge added.

Tabora, a resident of St. Catharines, was sentenced to six months behind bars after he pleaded guilty in Ontario Court of Justice in St. Catharines to a charge of aggravated assault.

The assault occurred in June 2019 after a 19-year-old prisoner was attacked by three fellow inmates inside a washroom at the Thorold jail.

Court heard the victim fell to the floor after being punched by one man. He fell to the floor and the three men took turns kicking and stomping on the victim.

The victim was taken to hospital where he underwent surgery to treat a broken jaw.

Assistant Crown attorney Andrew Brown described the assault as a somewhat cowardly attack.

It was a three-on-one assault, he said. Its fortunate for the victim that his injury, as severe as it was, was the only injury he suffered.

Court heard the victim did not co-operate with authorities, however, the attack was captured on surveillance video.

Obviously, violence has to be denounced in any setting but, in particular, at the detention centre, the Crown added.

Persons who are there deserve to be protected from those individuals who exact street justice for whatever reason on their fellow inmates.

The victims mother told the media in June that she repeatedly contacted the detention centre and Ministry of the Solicitor General following the assault, pleading with officials to send her son to a hospital.

She said her son was left to suffer for four days with a broken jaw.

She said she called for an ambulance herself, dialing 911 from the parking lot of the Thorold institution. She said paramedics who responded were not permitted inside and she was told a registered nurse was taking care of her sons issues.

At that time of the incident, a spokesman with the Ministry of the Solicitor General said all inmates have access to health-care services, which are provided at all of the ministrys correctional facilities.

In August 2019 the victim was sentenced to 18 months in jail on a slew of charges including possession of crystal meth, flight from police, theft and several firearms offences.
WASHINGTON  Every week since August, President Donald Trump's campaign says, volunteers knock on more than 1 million doors around the country. With a little more than 30 days before the election, Joe Biden's team launched its door-to-door campaign just this week.

The president's campaign is betting that even during a pandemic, face-to-face voter contact will give Trump an edge. But the Biden camp is making a different calculation.

The candidates' treatment of the coronavirus pandemic  which Trump asserts is "behind us" and Biden warns is getting worse  has shaped how both of their campaigns have been reaching out to voters.

Trump's contraction of COVID-19 and his resulting quarantine has sidelined him from the campaign trail for the immediate future. His campaign has already cancelled a rally planned in Florida Friday and jeopardized four other upcoming rallies  two in Wisconsin Saturday and two in Arizona (one Monday, the other Tuesday).

"Trump is a high-energy president with a giant personality," said Dan Eberhart, an energy company executive and GOP fundraiser. "Without his persona, the campaign is missing its energy source to run its (get-out-the-vote program) and cash machine."

Both are deluging the airwaves and the internet with ads, but they have been vastly at odds when it comes to individual voter contact.

President Donald Trump and Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden

The Trump campaign believes the personal touch gives them an edge to persuade and mobilize voters.

President Trump and his campaign have always placed incredible value in connecting directly with voters and right now, were the only campaign asking people for their vote in person," said Samantha Zager, a spokeswoman for the Trump campaign, said last week prior to Biden's announcement. "... Were firing on all cylinders with ads, targeted visits to key states, and our massive ground game operation.

As of Wednesday, the campaign said it has knocked on nearly 17.3 million doors (with a goal of 30 million by the election) and made more than 91 million phone calls. Four years ago, the campaign knocked on more than 21.6 million doors and dialed nearly 11 million homes.

Story continues

More: Joe Biden endorsed, Trump excoriated by nearly 500 retired top military, national security officials

But Biden's campaign, careful not to undermine the former vice president's message of social distancing during the pandemic, has said it can be just as effective through phone banks, virtual programs and smaller person-to-person efforts that result in fewer but more meaningful contacts with voters.

Even so, as the campaign heads for the homestretch and early voting has already begun in more than two dozen states states, the campaign is expanding face-to-face efforts while still hewing to virus safety guidelines.

More: Here's what Trump's positive COVID-19 test means for the 2020 election campaign

"Our voter contact operation is the most innovative and technologically advanced of any presidential campaign in history; and it has been thriving in this unprecedented environment  especially in terms of the most important metric: meaningful conversations with voters, Biden campaign manager Jen O'Malley Dillon said in a statement.

We're now expanding on our strategy in a targeted way that puts the safety of communities first and foremost and helps us mobilize voters who are harder to reach by phone now that we're in the final stretch and now that Americans are fully dialed-in and ready to make their voices heard, she continued. The Associated Press first reported the new Biden campaign efforts.

Overstating importance of voter outreach?

A massive ground game  one that includes door-knocking, face-to-face events, and heavy community presence  could help mobilize voters to the polls. But it's not expected to do much to sway folks on the fence.

Despite the often massive effort to persuade undecided voters, University of California-Berkeley researchers David Broockman and Joshua Kalla found that voter outreach efforts have practically "zero" effect on winning over voters.

More: FBI warns delayed election results could be exploited by foreign actors spreading disinformation

"The circumstances in which citizens political choices appear manipulable appear to be exceedingly rare in the elections that matter most," they wrote in their 2017 analysis.

In addition, there are fewer minds to change than there were four years ago.

Political analysts predict that the number of voters unable to decide until the last minute will be smaller in 2020 than four years ago. In 2016, the historic unpopularity of Trump and Democrat Hillary Clinton had many voters hemming and hawing up to the end. Ultimately, that group swung heavily for Trump.

More: Trump claims during Nevada campaign rally that Democrats are trying to 'rig' upcoming election

In a Monmouth University poll in early September, 81% of registered voters nationally said they had made a choice in the presidential race and were certain about it. Another 11% have picked a candidate but could still change their mind. And 8% were undecided.

Four years ago in late August, that same survey found 66% of likely voters were sure about who they were backing, 16% were leaning toward a candidate but not locked in, and 18% were undecided.

Trump campaign targeting voters in swing states

Through Wednesday, the Trump campaign is reporting its already made about 116 million voter contacts through phone banks and door knocking efforts  more than three times the number achieved four years ago during the entire campaign.

President Donald Trump arrives to speak at a campaign rally at Smith Reynolds Airport, Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2020, in Winston-Salem, N.C.

Key battleground states have seen a flurry of voter outreach, according to the campaign, including:

Arizona: 5.6 million voter contacts.

Florida: 17.2 million voter contacts.

Michigan: 5.5 million voter contacts.

Minnesota: 3.4 million voter contacts.

Nevada: 2.6 million voter contacts.

North Carolina: 7 million voter contacts.

Pennsylvania: 8.7 million voter contacts.

Wisconsin: 10.4 million voter contacts.

In addition, the campaign reports that scores of training sessions and MAGA Meet-ups have attracted tens of thousands of participants.

Bu not all voter outreach works, said Rita Kirk, a professor at Southern Methodist University in Dallas who studies political messaging.

The most effective means of door knocking is neighbor to neighbor. If its someone who lives near you, it seems more personal, she said. One of the reasons door knocking is effective is that it reminds voters to vote and, if they merely say they intend to vote, they are more likely to actually do it. Getting that verbal commitment can help increase turnout.

Where do Americans stand on election issues? Let them tell you how they feel about this policy

But Kirk said canvassing during a pandemic can backfire.

If residents have isolated themselves to feel safe, it may be that the intrusion of someone coming to your door may result in a negative reaction, she said.

Biden's battleground state effort

Amid the pandemic, the Biden campaign has focused on a digital campaign, including hosting video events and reaching out to voters via social media, in addition to doing virtual phone banking and continuing to buy radio and TV ads.

But as Election Day draws near in these final weeks, the Biden campaign is now entering a new phase of in-person canvassing, where there will be face-to-face contact with voters while still following health guidelines in each state.

The Biden campaign expects hundreds of volunteers to participate in these efforts, with them focusing on voter education, like early voting and get out to vote efforts. For example in Pennsylvania, over 6,000 volunteers in the last 36 hours said they would be interested in doing in-person events.

Over the last several weeks, the campaign has also opened more than 100 voter activation centers in lieu of traditional campaign organizing offices in at least 17 battleground states. Volunteers will be able to pick up lawn signs, borrowed cell phones to make calls to voters and campaign literature to drop off in voters mailboxes in lieu of traditional door knocking.

Democratic presidential candidate former Vice President Joe Biden listens during a campaign event with steelworkers in the backyard of a home in Detroit, on Sept. 9, 2020.

In September in Wisconsin, the campaign set up distribution centers in parking lots across the state and texted voters the locations to pick up campaign materials to continue to organize in their communities.

The campaign has been slowly implementing the new phase of their in-person campaigning over the past several days, which isn't limited to door-to-door canvassing.

Last weekend in Philadelphia, almost two hundred volunteers distributed campaign literature around early voting locations. Volunteers are also heading to college campuses, like the University of Michigan this week and schools in Florida this weekend, to help register students to vote.

The campaign is also relying on what theyre calling relational organizing. People can volunteer through the campaign by reaching out to family, friends or whoever is in their contact list on their phone to persuade them to vote.

That is where the campaign is hoping to fill the gap with undecided voters who aren't swayed by the digital aspects of the campaign.

"I think that's where we really have to dig in on is peer-to-peer and relational organizing, making sure that people who are engaged are then talking to their friends who are not engaged, and that were pushing the envelope with how we do relational and friend-to-friend conversations, said Biden States Director Jenn Ridder.

More: Supreme Court, coronavirus, race among the topics for the first presidential debate Sept. 29

The Democratic National Committee is also confident that their mostly digital campaign tactics have not hindered voter outreach.

"Across the battleground states, Democrats are running direct voter contact field campaigns that allow us to have effective and meaningful conversations with voters, and to do so safely," said David Bergstein, director of Battleground State Communications for the DNC. "And the fact is that over the course of this campaign, our field operations have crushed the Republicans in basically every key fields metric."

As of September in Florida, Democrats lead Republicans with more than 700,000 mail-in ballot requests. In other key battleground states of North Carolina and Pennsylvania, Democrats have a roughly 3-to-1 advantage of Republicans in absentee ballot requests, according to Politico.

"We're beating them in voter registration, we're beating them in metrics like vote-by-mail requests, and significantly. Our field tactics have also allowed us to beat the Republicans in key races that have happened during coronavirus," Bergstein said.

Supreme Court fight adds 'energy' to both sides' effort

The confirmation battle in Congress to replace Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg could help Democrats, including Biden, mobilize voters, given the outrage among liberals over Trump's efforts to fill the seat quickly with a conservative rather than wait for the next president to make the choice.

In Arizona, the progressive organization Indivisible Project said it expanded the number of phone banking shifts as a result. The effort is aimed at helping Democrat Mark Kelly unseat Republican Sen. Martha McSally, but Biden is a likely beneficiary, too.

More: Trump says he wants to fill Supreme Court seat quickly in case justices need to settle election dispute

The energy is unbelievable. Its people who are grieving, its people who Ruth Bader Ginsburg was a hero of theirs, its people who cant bear the idea of her replacement being somebody who wouldnt uphold in values, said Indivisible Co-Executive Director Leah Greenberg. That will manifest in pressure on these senators, and it will manifest in electoral outcomes as well.

Other progressive organizations aimed at young voters, especially voters of color, are launching similar efforts amid Ginsburg's death.

The Movement For Black Lives Electoral Justice Project, Working Families Party and United We Dream also began a joint initiative called The Frontline, to activate 250,000 voters for the election. The groups are turning to texting and phone calls to get people in key areas, like Philadelphia and Milwaukee, to get out to vote.

"Justice Ginsburg's passing and we just saw this over the past 48 hours, has been a unique opportunity to bring folks together across race and across sectors and across movements," said Maurice Mitchell, national director of Working Families Party.

The flag-draped casket of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg arrives at the Supreme Court in Washington, Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2020. Ginsburg, 87, died of cancer on Sept. 18. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) ORG XMIT: DCSA213

Hours after Ginsburg's death was announced, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., went live on Instagram to encourage her supporters to make sure they're registered to vote, have a plan to vote and gave them homework to reach out to at least five people to persuade them to go out to vote.

Ocasio-Cortez also during her live, which reached up to 45,000, specifically gave a message to her supporters who do not vote.

"This year, this election, voting for someone  voting for Joe Biden is not about whether you agree with him, its a vote to let our Democracy live another day," she said. "That's what this is about."

Conservatives see the vacancy as a mobilizing effort as well.

More: Voting groups report surge in registrations after death of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg

When Trump won four years ago, national exit polls showed that 21% of voters described Supreme Court appointments as their top issue. Among those voting for Trump, 26% listed is as their "most important factor" compared to 18% of Clinton voters.

The Susan B. Anthony List, an anti-abortion advocacy group that backs Trump and GOP senators in swing states, is adding at least another $1 million to ongoing voter outreach efforts as a result of the vacancy. The group is trying to persuade and mobilize contact roughly 7 million voters in key states such as Florida, Pennsylvania and Michigan.

"This is a moment that the pro-life grassroots (movement) has been waiting for," said Mallory Quigley, a spokesperson for the organization. "I anticipate this open seat will fuel similar turnout (a 2016). It is very energizing for not only pro-life Republican base voters but also many people who are considered swing voters."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Election 2020: Donald Trump, Joe Biden voter outreach has big differences
BAGHDAD  In a heartbreaking scene, long lines of protesters marched in Baghdads Tahrir Square holding photos of more than 600 people who were killed in the last year of protests in the capital and other provinces in the south.

Since last week, protesters have been decorating the squares where they have been gathering. In Tahrir, in the heart of Baghdad, dozens of artists are painting new murals and hundreds of demonstrators are cleaning the streets and reorganizing the tents.

Last night, scores of tuktuks, the small vehicles that have become part of the fabric of the protests, paraded in Tahrir Square, proclaiming the uprising will continue until its demands are met.

A year ago, on Oct. 1, 2019, the demonstrations began with Iraqis demanding a "homeland," an end to foreign interference and corruption and the provision of basic services. The demonstrations soon turned into a popular uprising from Baghdad to Basra in the far south of Iraq, including the influential Shiite city of Nasiriyah. It has spread to 10 Iraqi governorates, where the main squares have become the sites of sit-ins and covered in tents.

The uprising became a milestone in the post-2003 political process and an icon for a new non-sectarian Iraqi national movement, bringing together the full spectrum of society and uniting its demands under one umbrella.

The government responded to the protesters with large-scale repression, leading to the deaths of more than 600 protesters and injuries to 26,000 others, while top Shiite cleric Ayatollah Ali Sistani expressed his full support to the protests and backed the protesters' demand for the government's resignation and early elections.

The government of Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi resigned in November 2019 and in May, a new government was formed under former director of the National Intelligence Service Mustafa al-Kadhimi. The new government set the date for early elections as next June. However, no other demands have been addressed yet. The electoral law has not been finalized and other requirements for early elections including an electoral commission and a federal court in charge of overseeing the vote have not been agreed upon.

More importantly, the militias involved in killing and injuring thousands of protesters have not been held responsible for their crimes. Hundreds of activists remain missing and presumed abducted. Iraq's security crisis is worsening as attacks on foreign missions and troops increase, and the US threat to close its embassy has added fuel to the fire.

The prime minister meets with protesters and civil society leaders regularly and promises to meet their demands, but multiple challenges and pressure from various directions remain in the way. He has also urged groups of protesters to join a political party that supports him serving a second term.

The Turkish Restaurant, as the main headquarters of the protesters gathered in Tahrir Square, has become a symbol of the protests.

The prime minister launched a project Oct. 1 to turn the Turkish Restaurant into a cultural center memorializing the protests. It will include libraries, museums, theatres and other cultural facilities. It will feature a massive Iraqi flag and two waterfalls representing Iraq's two famous rivers. Kadhimi has named it the Tashrin (October) Edifice and put his adviser for reconstruction and infrastructure, Sabah Mushatat, in charge of the project.

Mushatat told Al-Monitor the memorial "will become a symbol of protests, inspiring people to seek justice and democracy. He said that another memorial will built in Nasiriyah, the second hardest-hit city after Baghdad with at least 120 protesters killed and thousands wounded.

We are now in the stage of drawing up plans and site arrangements for the two projects. After that, the [construction] company will be selected, Mushatat said.

Iraq's southern cities are now busy with the religious march of Arbain toward Karbala and protest organizers are preparing for the new wave of demonstrations on Oct. 25. Massive turnout is expected, but the protests will face ever more serious security, economic and health challenges.
by Mathias Hariyadi

In Indonesia, the date of September 30 (1965) is a very "hotbutton" issue in the country. The darkest day in Indonesia, when some generals were killed. The charges made against the Communist Party which was later dissolved.

Jakarta (AsiaNews) - September 30, 1965 was the darkest day in modern Indonesian history. A turning point that years later led to a fierce political battle for the first president of the nation Sukarno (sometimes written as Soekarno) in confronting the emerging figure of the army, General Suharto.

On that day, some senior officers of the 7th Army were assassinated in a coup attempt. The conspirators were accused of having contacts with the Communist Party (PKI).

The bloody killing of the generals prompted the students (pictured) to make a strong demand to ban the PKI. Of course, with the support of Suharto who later came to power as the country's second president.

Reluctant to ban the PKI, President Soekarno was then forced to leave power in 1967 after the Indonesian People's Council (MPR) unanimously rejected his speech on accountability. General Suharto's new government imposed house arrest on him until his death in 1970. While the PKI was banned.

Politically motivated emergency?

A few days before September 30, the "orchestrated" call arises to view the film entitled Pengkhianatan G30S / PKI (The betrayal of the PKI movement of September 30). And in the past few days, these calls have once again surfaced on social media.

A campaign aimed at a political program, both to create public "hatred" against the already dead PKI, and against politicians in the House who have close ties with their "ancestors" who in the past had links with the PKI.

A similar political gimmick was used by the authoritarian Suharto regime to banish Sukarno's followers and now the same move is also intended to discredit the followers of former president Megawati. Megawati is the daughter of President Sukarno, she has always fought religious radicalism and has supported the spirit of pluralism as a fundamental value of the Pancasila, the political platform of the nation "created" by her father, President Sukarno.

Many inaccurate facts

Speaking today via an online media, Prof. Asvi Marwan Adam of the Indonesian Science Agency (LIPI) harshly criticized the publicly orchestrated "project" for the public screening of the film Pengkhianatan G30S / PKI once again.

"There are a lot of inaccuracies in the film," this historian says today. He adds that the initial motive for the film's release was merely to promote "national hatred" against the PKI and its followers. Irrational today, since PKI was officially banned in 1967.

The film is outright propaganda used since the Suharto era to blame the PKI for being the "mastermind" of the bloody killing of 7 senior army generals on September 30, 1965.

Reconciliation

Indonesia under President Joko Widodo in his first term (2014-2019) held a history symposium where both "camps" came together, forgetting the past and building a new chapter.

Army General Agus Widjojo, now head of the Indonesian Defense Resilience Agency, was among the key figures in speaking out for the victims of the September 30, 1965 events. General Sutoyo, his father, was shot dead fires from attackers. But at the 2016 symposium, she boldly forgave her father's attackers. "This symposium - he said - is really very useful to close the past chapter, and while the new one opens, we would benefit from the lessons of the past".
PITTSBURGH, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ --

Transaction Highlights:

AmberLeaf will increase scale and add complementary capabilities to the Company's Data and Analytics business segment, branded as Mastech InfoTrellis;

The acquisition will strengthen and provide additional scope from which to implement Mastech InfoTrellis' Enterprise Intelligence Hub strategy; and

The combined businesses will provide customers with an expanded suite of service offerings, delivery capabilities, and human capital across North America , EMEA, India and ASEAN countries.

Mastech Digital, Inc. (NYSE American: MHH), a leading provider of Digital Transformation IT Services, today announced the acquisition of AmberLeaf Partners, Inc., a Chicago-based customer experience consulting company. The acquisition will bring together two distinct brands, one that architects and delivers enterprise intelligence through data and analytics, and the other that provides experience consulting through the customer lifecycle.

AmberLeaf is a uniquely positioned organization that offers managed services for a variety of Cloud-based enterprise applications across sales, marketing, and customer service through the AmberLeaf Experience as a Service (AXaaS). The acquisition will provide a broader scope for AXaaS across Mastech InfoTrellis's global client base.

The transaction is valued at $14.0 million, with $9.5 million paid in cash at closing, subject to customary adjustments, and up to $4.5 million in deferred payments over the next two years. The deferred payments are contingent upon the acquired business achieving specific financial targets during the two years following the closing of the acquisition.

Mastech InfoTrellis expects to realize the following synergies from the combined enterprise:

Mastech InfoTrellis will enhance its capabilities in customer experience strategy, global service delivery, and IP-led platforms;

AmberLeaf's customers will have access to Mastech InfoTrellis' "enterprise intelligence hub" - powered by its data bus and knowledge graphs; and

The AmberLeaf business will have access to Mastech InfoTrellis' global delivery engine and robust sales and marketing capabilities.

Commenting on the acquisition, Vivek Gupta, President and CEO of Mastech Digital, stated, "In 2017 we began our transformational journey to become a world-class provider of Data Management and Analytics services. The acquisition of AmberLeaf reinforces our commitment to this strategy by enhancing our ability to significantly scale our Data and Analytics business segment."

Concurrent with the acquisition, the Company entered into a revised credit facility with PNC Bank which increased its term loan facility by approximately $10 million to $17.5 million and increased its revolving loan facility to $30 million, an increase of $7.5 million from the previous credit line of $22.5 million. Commenting on the new credit facility, Jack Cronin, CFO and Corporate Secretary of Mastech Digital said, "While we could have comfortably funded the acquisition with funds available under our previous facility, this revised credit agreement will give us sufficient financial flexibility to continue to invest in our businesses in both an organic and inorganic manner."

Mastech Digital's advisors on the transaction included The Chesapeake Group  investment banker and Blank Rome, LLP - legal counsel.

About Mastech Digital / Mastech InfoTrellis:

Mastech Digital (NYSE American: MHH) is a leading provider of Digital Transformation IT Services. The Company offers Data Management and Analytics Solutions, Digital Learning, and IT Staffing Services with a Digital First approach. A minority-owned enterprise, Mastech Digital is headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA with offices across North America, EMEA, India and ASEAN countries. Mastech InfoTrellis is the wholly-owned subsidiary of Mastech Digital which offers professional services across data management, data engineering, and data science.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as "expects," "anticipates," "plans," "believes," "estimates", "plans", "will" and "projects" and variations of these words and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, which include but are not limited to (i) projections of revenues, earnings, and cash flow, and (ii) the expected benefits to Mastech Digital and/or Mastech InfoTrellis from completing the AmberLeaf transaction and the expected performance of Mastech Digital and/or Mastech InfoTrellis following completion of the acquisition and debt financing, including future financial and operating results, expected synergies, and the combined company's plans, objectives, expectations and intentions. These statements are based on information currently available to Mastech Digital and it assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements as circumstances change. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve certain risks and uncertainties, which are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of the control of Mastech Digital. Therefore, actual future results and trends may differ materially from what is forecast in forward-looking statements due to a variety of factors, including, without limitation, (1) the risk that the acquisition or debt financing transactions disrupt current plans and operations of Mastech Digital and/or Mastech InfoTrellis as a result of the announcement or consummation of such transactions; (2) the ability to successfully integrate the operations and employees of AmberLeaf into Mastech InfoTrellis; (3) the ability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the acquisition of AmberLeaf which may be affected by, among other things, competition, the ability of Mastech Digital to grow and manage growth profitably, maintain relationships with customers and suppliers and retain key employees; (4) costs related to the acquisition and debt financing; (5) the possibility that Mastech Digital or AmberLeaf or their respective subsidiaries and affiliates may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and/or competitive factors, including the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and governmental responses to limit the further spread of COVID-19; and (6) other risks and uncertainties that are described in more detail in Mastech Digital's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019.

Media Contact:

Donna Kijowski

+1-412-787-9551

[email protected]

SOURCE Mastech Digital, Inc.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 20:47:02|Editor: huaxia

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KIEV, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for a further development of the bilateral strategic partnership with China.

In a recent written interview with Xinhua, Zelensky underlined that China has always been and remains one of the priorities of Ukrainian foreign policy.

"Relations between Ukraine and China are a long history of political and cultural dialogue, economic mutually beneficial cooperation, respect for the choice of each other's development path," Zelensky said.

Zelensky noted that the two countries had made significant progress in developing political dialogue and practical cooperation since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1992.

"I am pleased to state that Ukrainian-Chinese interaction has always been based on a solid foundation of mutual respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence, non-interference in internal affairs and recognition of the path of development chosen by the people," he said.

Zelensky hoped that relations between the two countries, following the requirements of the new era, should reach an even higher level of development.

He also said that Ukraine was one of the first countries to support the Belt and Road Initiative proposed by China, and Ukraine-China cooperation has great potential, adding that Ukraine is looking forward to strengthening cooperation with China in areas including economy and trade, construction of the "Belt and Road" and anti-epidemic collaboration.

Zelensky also mentioned the people-to-people exchanges between the two countries, noting that in recent years, Ukraine has stepped up efforts in training specialists in Sinology.

"The Chinese language is being studied in general education schools and higher educational institutions. In Ukraine, about 500 Sinologists receive diplomas of philology every year. We have qualified translators," Zelensky said.

Zelensky spoke highly of the two countries' cooperation in response to COVID-19, and said he appreciated China's friendly support, which is particularly important and valuable to Ukraine.

He added Ukraine is willing to further cooperation with China in dealing with the pandemic. Enditem
SPRINGFIELD  State public health officials reported 2,166 new cases of coronavirus and 25 additional deaths on Thursday.

The Illinois Department of Public Health is now reporting a total of 295,440 cases, including 8,696 deaths.

The preliminary seven-day statewide positivity rate  the percentage of positive tests out of the total conducted  through Sept. 30 is 3.5%. Within the previous 24 hours, laboratories have reported 65,615 specimens for a total of 5,690,437, according to IDPH.

McLean County Health Department Administrator Jessica McKnight said a death that IDPH reported in that county was done so in error. The person, a woman in her 70s, was not a McLean County resident, she said, and local health officials are working with IDPH to correct the state's information.

Details about the other reported deaths are as follows:

Bond County: 1 male 70s

Champaign County: 1 female 80s

Christian County: 1 female 70s, 1 female 80s

Cook County: 1 female 40s, 1 female 80s, 1 male 80s, 1 female 100+

Crawford County: 1 male 70s

DuPage County: 2 female 70s

Fayette County: 1 female 70s

Franklin County: 1 male 70s

Jersey County: 1 male 80s

Kendall County: 1 male 90s

Lake County: 1 female 50s, 1 male 60s

Madison County: 1 male 90s

McHenry County: 1 male 40s

St. Clair County: 1 female 70s

Tazewell County: 2 female 80s

Williamson County: 1 female 80s

Winnebago County: 1 male 70s

As of Wednesday night, 1,635 people in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 359 patients were in the ICU and 149 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators.

Contact Allison Petty at (217) 421-6986. Follow her on Twitter: @AllisonAPetty

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.
HONG-KONG and TEL-AVIV, Israel, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Hong-Kong based cyber-security solutions distributor LOGON Software Asia, and Reflectiz, a cyber security company specializing in third-party application security for websites, are pleased to announce a new partnership. LOGON offers a range of cyber security solutions in the area of Vulnerability Assessment, Threat Intelligence and Access Management to the Asian market.

LOGON is now offering Reflectiz' unique solution, helping financial websites, e-commerce businesses and online services stay protected against privacy and security risks, created by installed third-party code. These include client-side threats, compliance and privacy risks, web-skimming, Magecart attacks and more.

According to Wong Yuet Or, the director of LOGON Software Asia, "The partnership will allow LOGON to address the growing demand of resolving third-party threats on websites. Our customers can now easily mitigate the growing risks generated by dozens of third-party apps running on their websites." Ms. Wong adds that the threat from third-parties on websites has increased the demand for a solution, and Reflectiz provides it. "The solution is not only practical, but it also allows a quick and easy mitigation process that protects online businesses against the growing security challenges of Magecart's web-skimming, client-side risks, data leaks and obviously - compliance."

Today we witness a growing demand for third-party apps on websites - to allow technological scalability and maximizing business results. These include analytics tools, marketing and advertising components, open source development tools and more. Along with the many benefits these components provide, each installed third-party code running on a website, can also produce a long list of security and privacy risks.

Idan Cohen, the CEO of Reflectiz adds "Almost any website today is exposed. The main problem is that most security measures and tools are not designed to deal with the risks that these third-party apps generate. Taking into account the dynamics of these tools and the fact that the threats run outside the 'common' protection range, on the client-side - this requires a dedicated solution. This is what we, at Reflectiz, do." Mr. Cohen further emphasizes that as a result, the common security tools are unable to identify the new risks that are created by third-party apps on websites. "Reflectiz solves this growing need, providing websites the protection they require with unique third-party visibility capabilities, like never before, without installation and without production changes. Easy and simple."

Mr. Cohen also states, "The partnership with LOGON allows Reflectiz to expand its presence within Asia, and explore new markets and reach new clients. We are excited to collaborate with the professional team of LOGON and looking forward to a successful partnership".

To celebrate the new partnership, LOGON and Reflectiz will offer customers in Asia, a complementary website third-party application security analysis. On that aspect, Ms. Wong adds that ahead of the Chinese Bachelor Day, Cyber-Monday and Black Friday, e-commerce websites can have the quickest and most effective solution, for immediate protection against Magecart attacks as well as protecting checkout pages, before the shopping peak!

For more details, please visit: LOGON Asia, https://www.logon-int.com

Contact person: Lisa Wong, [email protected]

Reflectiz, Third-Party Application Security, https://www.reflectiz.com

Contact person: Raanan Azoulai, [email protected]

SOURCE Reflectiz and LOGON Software Asia
The special investigation team (SIT) constituted to probe the brutal gang-rape case in Hathras district of Uttar Pradesh reached village Boolgarhi and interacted with the family members of the victim on Thursday. The SIT also visited the crime spot and recorded statements of villagers relevant to the case, said officials.

Prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) have been put in force in Hathras district to prevent unlawful assembly of people.

The administration has also barred the entry of media in the village claiming it might be declared a Covid-19 containment zone if some of the on-duty cops showing symptoms of coronavirus are found to be positive for the disease.

We have asked these cops to get themselves tested and if they test positive, the village might be declared a quarantine zone and thus entry of outsiders including media has been stopped on apprehension of Covid-19 stated Praveen Kumar, district magistrate, Hathras.

On 14th September, a 19 year old woman from the village was allegedly gang-raped by four accused, now in custody. The girl was first admitted to JN medical college in Aligarh but was shifted to Safdarjung hospital in Delhi last Monday as her condition deteriorated. However, she could not be saved and breathed her last on Tuesday morning at the hospital.

Uttar Pradesh police was accused of hurriedly organising her cremation at 3am on Wednesday against her familys wish to take her body home and cremate her the following morning.

The state government constituted a SIT headed by senior IPS officer Bhagwan Swaroop, secretary of home department to probe the case. Two other members of SIT are deputy IG Chandra Prakash and Poonam, the commandant of 15th battalion PAC Agra. The SIT is to submit its report within a week.

Also Watch: Amid outrage over Hathras case, another Dalit girl raped in Balrampur, dies

The SIT headed by Bhagwan Swaroop and two other members has reached Hathras and was in the village on Thursday to interact with family members of the girl, who was gang raped. The SIT is recording statements and has also visited the crime scene, stated district magistrate of Hathras, Praveen Kumar.

Meanwhile Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and party general secretary Priyanka Gandhis vehicles were stopped by the police at Greater Noida in Gautam Buddha Nagar district while on its way to Hathras citing the prohibitory orders in place in the district.

Also Read: Rahul Gandhi, sister Priyanka set off on foot to meet Hathras gangrape victims family after police stop them at UP highway

Praveen Kumar said that according to the medical report, there was no injury on the private parts of the victim; therefore, nothing can be said conclusively about gang-rape, the samples have been sent to the forensic science lab in Agra.

Report from the forensic science lab at Agra might be obtained in three days and that will be conclusive evidence of gang-rape, said the DM, Hathras, Praveen Kumar.
Signs of recovery and change in Chinas Golden Week

China has kicked off Golden Week, the annual spree of shopping and travel built around the Oct. 1 National Day celebrations, and the first major holiday since the country brought its coronavirus outbreak more or less under control.

Each year, the weeklong holiday is a closely watched barometer of Chinas economic health, and thats even truer this year. Early signs seem to confirm two trends: The country has returned to normalcy far more than others around the world, and yet the ripple effects of the pandemic are hard to shake off.

Hotels are full and tickets to tourist attraction are sold out. Most years, millions of Chinese people go overseas, but this year they will mostly travel domestically. Chinas official tourism research institute predicts that 550 million domestic trips will be made, less than last year but a significant number. The energy has been pent-up for too long, said Lisa Li, a manager at a Shanghai travel agency.
The Society of Young Nigerian Writers (Anambra State Chapter) is seeking submissions of quality poems and essays from writers across the wolrd, for her 5th Chinua Achebe Poetry/Essay Anthology.

The annual anthology is published in honour and memory of Late Prof. Chinua Achebe, a foremost Nigerian literary legend and the father of morden African Literature. The prestigious anthology will (as usual) be unveiled at the 5th edition of Chinua Achebe Literary Festival which is slated to hold on 16th November 2020, at the Anambra State Central E-Library (also known as Prof. Kenneth Dike Central E-Library), in south-eastern Nigeria.

According to the Project Coordinator, Izunna Okafor, who is also the Coordinator of Society of Young Nigerian Writers in Anambra State, Chinua Achebe Literary Festival is an annual literary festival held by Society of Young Nigerian Writers in memory and honour of Achebe, in celebration of his life, works, contributions and legacies in the literary field. The event, he notes, was initiated in 2016, and holds on Achebe's date of birth since then, with the last edition held in 2019, during which the most recent edition of the anthology Chinua Achebe Essay/Poetry Anthology "Arrows of Words" was unveiled.

It is with a view to mark this year's edition of the Festival in a more remarkable and memorable way that the organizers are calling for quality poems and essays from burgeoning and accomplished writers to enter their thematically-articulated essays and poetry in memory of Achebe for the fifth anthology. The anthology is in honour of Prof. Chinua Achebe; hence, only entries that revolve around Achebe, his works, his literary prowess and legacies will be accepted for publication.

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES:

1. Only essays and poems are accepted for the anthology

2. Entrant must specify the genre of his entry, that is, specify whether it is Poetry or Essay

3. The essays and poems MUST be in the memory of Chinua Achebe, and may focus on his life, works personality, writing style or other areas.

4. The essays or poems should be brief and concise a maximum of 500 words for essays or reviews, and a maximum of 30 lines for poetry.

5. Authors information location/contact address, phone number, e-mail address, and a short bio of no more than 40 words should be included in the submission.

6. Submission is FREE and open to writers from any part of the world.

7. Entry MUST be the original work of the author/poet.

8. Only one entry per person is allowed.

9. Entrant may choose/write on any interesting title of his/her choice.

10. Entries should be sent via: [email protected] , with the subject "FIFTH CHINUA ACHEBE ESSAY/POETRY ANTHOLOGY (SPECIFY THE GENRE OF YOUR ENTRY)"

11. Entry MUST be type-written and sent in the body of the mail; NOT AS AN ATTACHMENT. Entries sent as attachment will be automatically disqualified.

12. Submission Deadline: 20th October 2020. Late Entry will not be accepted.

13. Entries could be written in either English or Igbo Language.

BENEFITS:

 All successful/shortlisted essays and poetry will be published in the Fifth Chinua Achebe Poetry/Essay Anthology (soft and hard copies).

 Online promotion of successful/published essays and poems and the entrants.

 All successful entrants shall receive Certificate of Participation.

 Each successful entrant is entitled to author's copy of the published anthology

 Authors/poets of the best ten essays and poems shall be given outstanding recognitions and Certificate of Award at the 2020 Chinua Achebe Literary Festival.

 Entrants (if present at the event) shall be allowed to present their essays/poems at the event.

 Automatic/free membership and admission into the the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (for successful/published young Nigerian entrants.)

For inquiries or support, contact:

[email protected]

08163938812

Izunna Okafor (Coordinator, Society of Young Nigerian Writers Anambra Chapter)

07010178124

Maureen Onyinyechi Kenneth

(Secretary)


Tax revenues that support public education and state government in Alabama increased over the last 12 months despite the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Alabamas fiscal year ended Wednesday.

Revenues that support the Education Trust Fund, the main source of state money for public schools, grew by $224 million to $7.4 billion, a 3% increase over fiscal year 2019.

Income taxes and sales taxes, the two biggest sources for the ETF, both grew during the fiscal year, partly because it was half over when the pandemic struck. Income taxes grew by $109 million, or 2.4%, while sales taxes grew by $71 million, 3.5%.

Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, chair of the Senates Finance and Taxation Education Committee, said the numbers show that state finances are sound, at least for now, more than six months into the pandemic.

Given where most states are in the country, were in very good shape, Orr said. Im on conference calls, Zoom calls with other budget chairs around the country frequently, and some of them are really singing the blues and looking at revenue-raisers and serious budget cuts because of the pandemic.

In May, the Legislature passed the education budget for fiscal year 2021, which starts today. Lawmakers scaled back Gov. Kay Iveys pre-pandemic proposed budget by about $300 million. The budget they passed appropriates $7.2 billion from the Education Trust Fund, or $200 million less than this years revenue.

Weve got a cushion of 200 million dollars there and that was intentional, Orr said. We cut the governors budget when the pandemic happened because we didnt know and were certainly not out of the woods yet. But all in all Im very encouraged by where we are.

Alabama, unlike the federal government, cannot operate with a budget deficit.

Orr said the state is projected to have about $500 million in its advancement and technology fund for education available this year. Money flows into that fund when tax revenues exceed spending.

The state General Fund, which supports programs including Medicaid, prisons, courts, state troopers, the Department of Mental Health and many others, saw an increase of $147 million in revenues during the fiscal year, to $2.3 billion, a 6.8% increase.

The General Fund receives money from over 40 taxes and fees, but about half the increase came from a single source, the Simplified Sellers Use Tax, a sales tax on internet sales. With shopping in retail stores curtailed by the pandemic, online purchases soared. The General Fund received $139 million from the Simplified Sellers Use Tax, double the previous year.

Rep. Steve Clouse, R-Ozark, chair of the House Ways and Means General Fund Committee, said that helped offset declines from other revenue sources, like oil and gas production, interest on state deposits, lodgings taxes, court costs, and others.

We ended up about where we thought were going to be if COVID never hit," Clouse said. So, that was good.

Clouse said the revenue outlook for this fiscal year appears stable, but he is worried about rising costs in prisons, Medicaid, mental health, paroles, and other state programs.

Clouse said the job losses caused by the pandemic could lead to an increase in Medicaid enrollment. The Department of Corrections budget has increased from about $400 million five years ago to $544 million this year, according to budget spreadsheets posted by the Legislative Services Agency.

So, the expenditure side is not going down anywhere, thats for sure on the General Fund side, Clouse said.
The owners of a pair of bars that overserved drunk customers before each was involved in a separate fatal crash less than a year apart have agreed to punishments from the states Alcoholic Beverage Control.

The Landmark Americana Tap & Grill  which is near the Rowan University campus in Glassboro agreed to sell their liquor license within two years, close earlier and pay a $550,000 penalty, the state Office of the Attorney General said Thursday.

Today we are holding the owners of Landmark Americana responsible for the role they played in the tragic deaths of two young people who we allege would be alive today if not for the irresponsible conduct of Landmark Americana and its staff, Acting Director of the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control director James B. Graziano said in a statemnt. These deaths are a grim reminder of what can happen when establishments fail to comply with laws requiring them to serve alcohol responsibly, especially when catering to young patrons in a college setting.

William Fay, an attorney who represented owners Antonio Cammarata, Fillippo Cammarata, Massimo Cammarata and David Goldman, declined to comment when reached by phone Thursday.

Authorities said the since-closed Landmark Americana Tap & Grill on The College of New Jersey campus in Ewing which was owned by the same group  overserved then 22-year-old David Lamar of West Windsor in December 2018 before he crashed head-on into a car carrying six TCNJ students back to campus. The crash killed the designated driver, Michael Sot, 20, of Clark and left five others hurt.

Lamars blood-alcohol content was three times the legal limit of .08.

The following October, then 21-year-old Robert Gallagher, left the Landmark in Glassboro after hours of drinking, lost control of his car, and crashed into a retaining wall in Pitman. The Monroe, Gloucester County man, whose BAC was also triple the legal limit, died and his passenger was hurt.

The bars had also been accused by the ABC of causing a public nuisance as police were called to both bars on several occasions and serving a person below the legal drinking age of 21.

Zagami LLC will have to now abide by a last call at 11:30 pm with no alcoholic beverages sold after midnight. The Landmark in Rowan also agreed to no longer have amplified music or a DJ on site and is banned from using its nightclub room except for private parties not open to the general public or dining, the ABC said.

In addition, the bar will no longer be allowed to offer free drinks or hand out coupons or tickets to redeem for free alcohol.

The corporate entity also owns WineWorks, a liquor store in Evesham.

Landmark Americana Tap & Grill in Ewing shut its door last year.

Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JeffSGoldman. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

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Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap on Thursday, October 1, reached the Versova police station to record his statement in connection with the sexual assault complaint and subsequent FIR alleging rape registered against him by actor Payal Ghosh. On Wednesday, the Mumbai police had summoned Kashyap to be present at the Versova police station for interrogation over the complaint.

On September 22, Payal Ghosh had registered a sexual assault complaint against Anurag Kashyap at the Versova police station in Mumbai, three days after opening up on the alleged incident. She had tagged Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking action against Kashyap and security for her after claiming that he had forced himself upon her around 2014-15.

This is apart from another complaint she filed with the Narcotics Control Bureau alleging he consumed drugs and another complaint she filed with the National Commission for Women.

The First Information Report (FIR) against Anurag Kashyap had been registered against Sections 376 (I) (rape), 354 (assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty,), 341 (wrongful restraint) and 342 (wrongful confinement) of the Indian Penal Code. Earlier, Payal Ghosh had also been interrogated over the statements by the Versova police, where she had registered her complaint.

READ | Anurag Kashyap to be summoned by Mumbai Police for questioning over Payal Ghosh's rape FIR

READ | Payal Ghosh & Ramdas Athawale meet Maha Governor; discuss case against Anurag Kashyap

Payal Ghosh vs Anurag Kashyap

Reacting to the summoning news of Kashyap, Ghosh took to her Twitter handle and acknowledged the step taken by the Mumbai Police and hoped that 'justice is prevailed' in the case. Meanwhile, Ghosh is receiving support from numerous quarters amid her battle for justice. Union Minister Ramdas Athavale joined her in addressing a press conference recently, where he warned the police of protest from his party RPI if action is not taken for seven days. The minister also helped the actor put forth her plea before Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshiyari.

On September 19, Payal Ghosh had tweeted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking action against Anurag Kashyap, claiming he had forced himself upon her around 2014-15. She has filed a police complaint against the director, and also registered pleas with the National Commission for Women and another with the Narcotics Control Bureau alleging Kashyap consumed drugs.

READ | Anurag Kashyap summoned by police after Payal Ghosh's allegation of rape & FIR against him

READ | Payal Ghosh reacts after filmmaker Anurag Kashyap gets summoned by Mumbai Police
A member of the right-wing hate group Proud Boys was arrested in Oregon the morning after the first presidential debate, in which Donald Trump declined to disavow white supremacy, for assault and weapons charges resulting from a confrontation he had with protestors in August.

Alan Swinney, who Oregon Public Broadcasting identified as a member of Proud Boys and the far-right protester that pointed a gun at demonstrators in downtown Portland last month, was arrested on Wednesday morning on multiple assault charges. He also faced charges for unlawful use of a weapon and unlawful use of tear gas, stun gun or mace, the outlet reported, as well as pointing a firearm at another person.

The 50-year-old, who remains held at the Multnomah County Jail, was seen pulling out a gun during a clash with countrprotestors at the Multnomah County Justice Center on videos shared online from the 22 August rally.

Though he initially claimed he was cleared by officials of any wrongdoing during the violent clash, Swinney was reportedly arrested just hours after the president delivered a startling message to the hate group at Tuesday nights debate in Ohio: Proud Boys  stand back and stand by.

Somebodys got to do something about Antifa and the left, Mr Trump added, referring to the anti-facisct movement that does not have any organizational structure in the United States.

Mr Trump was asked to disavow white supremacy and white nationalist, extremist and other right-wing groups responsible for violence and violent clashes at nationwide protests with increasing frequency in recent months.

The presidents close advisers have defended his debate performance, noting how he said sure when he was initially asked to disavow white supremacy.

However, Republican leaders on Capitol Hill were quick to distance themselves from the swift backlash that Mr Trumps comments sparked online, with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell saying in a statement that it was unacceptable not to condemn white supremacists.

Mr Swinney pointed a revolver at the counterprotestors as fights broke out in the streets just outside of the county justice center, Oregon Public Broadcasting reported, with videos showing demonstrators ducking behind barriers as he pulled out the gun. No shots were fired.

Answering questions from reporters the day after the debates in Ohio, former Vice President Joe Biden called on the Proud Boys to cease and desist while denouncing the presidents performance the night before as a national embarrassment.

The president of the United States conducting himself the way he did, I think it was just a national embarrassment, he said. My message to the Proud Boys and every other white supremacist group is cease and desist.

Thats not who we are, Mr Biden added about the Proud Boys. This is not who we are as Americans.
In a recently published study in the Journal of Clinical Oncology - Oncology Practice, investigators from MUSC Hollings Cancer Center classify numerous barriers to a recommended therapy for head and neck cancer that may mean the difference between life and death for these patients.

Cancer of the head and neck is one of the deadliest cancers. Only half of those with head and neck cancer are alive five years following initial diagnosis. African Americans, in particular, experience worse survival outcomes. These patients are 50% more likely to die from the disease than white people, a concerning trend that has prompted deeper research into factors that might drive these significant disparities in head and neck cancer mortality.

The Hollings study team is led by Evan Graboyes, M.D., a surgeon scientist who is examining how to improve the timeliness and equity of care delivery to decrease head and neck cancer recurrence and improve survival. "The key measure of timely head and neck cancer care is the time between when patients get surgery and when they start their radiation. When people get their care within six weeks, it is less likely to recur. Unfortunately, we also know that nationally about half of head and neck cancer patients don't get their radiation started on time, and that radiation treatment delays disproportionately burden African Americans."

To understand more fully factors contributing to head and neck cancer treatment delays, Graboyes and his team conducted structured interviews with patients, providers, nurses, nurse practitioners, surgeons and radiation and medical oncologists across South Carolina. "It's a qualitative study," Graboyes explained, "where the key unit of analysis isn't numbers but rather words and stories. Qualitative studies are really helpful for providing an in-depth understanding of experiences that patients, providers and other interviewees can offer us."

Multiple levels of barriers

What makes this issue complex is that there are multiple obstacles that interact to prevent a patient from getting radiation treatment in a timely manner. The researchers found those obstacles include:

A lack of patient and provider education on national standards of care.

Unexpected post-surgical complications that interrupted tight treatment timelines.

Poor communication between medical teams.

Burdensome travel requirements to see different specialists.

"One of the interesting things we found is that patients might experience several of these barriers, just at different points in time during their treatments," Graboyes said. "Their difficulties were constantly evolving as they progressed through the cancer care continuum."

The study presents a novel theory-driven conceptual framework that classifies common treatment hurdles. The categories include problematic individual behaviors of patients and providers (intrapersonal barriers); insufficient communication between patients, providers, and caregivers (interpersonal barriers); insufficient communication between disparate care teams (health care barriers); inefficiencies related to fragmentation of care across organizations (organizational barriers); and challenges in health care access (community-level barriers).

"Within the cancer care delivery research spectrum, we as cancer researchers have spent a lot of time trying to understand how and why people do or don't participate in screening activities and then developing interventions to implement into health care systems to help address those determinants," he said. "There is a much less concerted effort and less scientific progress in trying to understand how the actual cancer care delivery itself happens. That's why I think this research really is exciting."

Beyond the study

Graboyes hopes that their model will facilitate future head and neck cancer interventions that target treatment barriers at one or more levels. "We know a lot about who is at risk for experiencing treatment delays, but before this study, we didn't really understand why," said Graboyes. "What this study does is give us a framework, a vocabulary and an understanding of how to relate these themes together in future quantitative studies."

Graboyes credits the resources of the Hollings Cancer Control Research Program; the expertise of his team, including center members Chanita Hughes-Halbert, Ph.D., Katherine Sterba, Ph.D., Hong Li, Ph.D., and Graham Warren, M.D., Ph.D.; and the outstanding multidisciplinary head and neck oncology group as being critical to the success of the study.

"Hollings Cancer Center has been a major enabler of this research where we are trying to understand cancer care delivery across the state, with a specific focus on the racial minority patient population and the challenges they face."

Next, Graboyes intends to test whether an intervention strategy funded by the National Cancer Institute, referred to as NDURE (Navigation for Disparities and Untimely Radiation thErapy), can improve patient outcomes. A major feature of this intervention will be the role of an assigned navigator who will work with head and neck cancer patients to create a tailored and dynamically evolving plan based on which barriers they are experiencing. A patient and referral tracking system also will be employed to check on the patient's progress across health care systems, remind them of upcoming appointments and help to identify needed travel resources to keep care timelines on track.

Graboyes anticipates that his conceptual framework will facilitate novel intervention strategies for other cancers besides head and neck cancer. "There are many other cancer types besides head and neck cancer that are treated with multimodal, sequential cancer treatment paradigms. The work we are doing, trying to understand the determinants of head and neck cancer, certainly can benefit other cancers with similar care delivery challenges."

###

About MUSC

Founded in 1824 in Charleston, MUSC is the oldest medical school in the South, as well as the state's only integrated, academic health sciences center with a unique charge to serve the state through education, research and patient care. Each year, MUSC educates and trains more than 3,000 students and nearly 800 residents in six colleges: Dental Medicine, Graduate Studies, Health Professions, Medicine, Nursing and Pharmacy. The state's leader in obtaining biomedical research funds, in fiscal year 2019, MUSC set a new high, bringing in more than $284 million. For information on academic programs, visit musc.edu.

As the clinical health system of the Medical University of South Carolina, MUSC Health is dedicated to delivering the highest quality patient care available, while training generations of competent, compassionate health care providers to serve the people of South Carolina and beyond. Comprising some 1,600 beds, more than 100 outreach sites, the MUSC College of Medicine, the physicians' practice plan, and nearly 275 telehealth locations, MUSC Health owns and operates eight hospitals situated in Charleston, Chester, Florence, Lancaster and Marion counties. In 2019, for the fifth consecutive year, U.S. News & World Report named MUSC Health the No. 1 hospital in South Carolina. To learn more about clinical patient services, visit muschealth.org.

MUSC and its affiliates have collective annual budgets of $3.2 billion. The more than 17,000 MUSC team members include world-class faculty, physicians, specialty providers and scientists who deliver groundbreaking education, research, technology and patient care.

About MUSC Hollings Cancer Center

MUSC Hollings Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center and the largest academic-based cancer research program in South Carolina. The cancer center comprises more than 100 faculty cancer scientists and 20 academic departments. It has an annual research funding portfolio of more than $44 million and a dedication to reducing the cancer burden in South Carolina. Hollings offers state-of-the-art diagnostic capabilities, therapies and surgical techniques within multidisciplinary clinics that include surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation therapists, radiologists, pathologists, psychologists and other specialists equipped for the full range of cancer care, including more than 200 clinical trials. For more information, visit http://www.hollingscancercenter.org.
By Azernews





By Aisha Jabbarova

Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Leyla Abdullayeva has said that Azerbaijan needs no outside force to ensure its territorial integrity within its international borders.

Abdullayeva made the remarks on October 1 while commenting on Armenian smear campaign alleging that militants from Syria being deployed to Azerbaijan to help Azerbaijan in the ongoing clashes with Armenia.

Abdullayeva said that Armenia is behind these allegations, which are not based on any facts and are spread in the form of interviews with fictitious people.

The spokesperson said that this smear campaign by Armenian is an attempt to compensate for the negative international public opinion created by Armenia's recent relocation, in a demonstrative way, of representatives of terrorist organizations from the Middle East to the occupied territories of Azerbaijan, which is a gross violation of international humanitarian law.

There are numerous facts on the use of terrorist groups and mercenaries in military operations during the occupation of the Nagorno-Karabakh and surrounding regions of Azerbaijan by Armenia. At present, the Armenian leadership continues this policy and widely uses extremist elements against Azerbaijan as part of its new act of aggression. Thus, Armenia's plan to create "voluntary militant groups" to be used for military purposes is aimed at using the "services" of terrorists who have been moved to Armenia from the Middle East for years, Abdullayeva said.

Abdullayeva said that unlike Armenia, which has been, over the years, experiencing a severe demographic crisis and as a result of which it has not able to equip its armed forces, Azerbaijan has fully-fledged armed forces, and these armed forces are so professional and strong that no external forces, especially irregular groups, are needed to achieve the set goal.

These bogus claims are incompatible from a military-technical point of view, as they lack simple logic. Various sources claim that several hundred mercenaries were allegedly brought to Azerbaijan. Then such a question arises; In the context of a possible clash of two regular armies, can a small number of irregular groups change the balance of forces? Of course, those who spread misinformation are not able to answer this question, Abdullayeva stressed.

The Foreign Ministry issued another statement earlier today, saying that Armenia involved terrorists and mercenaries from foreign countries, especially from the Middle East, during the occupation of Azerbaijani lands, as well as in the following acts of aggression against Azerbaijan.

Armenian armed forces launched a large-scale operation in the front-line zone on September 27 at 6 am, shelling the positions of the Azerbaijani army from large-calibre weapons, mortars, and artillery installations of various calibres.

Azerbaijan launched a counter-offensive operation along the entire front to suppress the combat activity of the Armenian armed forces and ensure the safety of the civilian population. Azerbaijan liberated Garakhanbeyli, Garvend, Kend Horadiz, Yukhari Abdulrahmanli villages of Fizuli district, Boyuk Marjanli, and Nuzgar villages of Jabrayil district as well as strategically-important Murov height and destroyed the positions of the Armenian armed forces in the direction of the Agdere district and Murovdag.

Overall, 18 Azerbaijani civilians have been killed and 58 have been injured in Armenian attacks on Azerbaijans civilian infrastructure since September 27. Among the killed civilians are three children as well as five members of the same family.




American soldiers patrol an oil well in Rumaylan in Syria's northeastern Hasakeh Province on Nov. 6, 2019. (Delil Souleiman/AFP via Getty Images)

US Repatriates Last Suspected ISIS Supporters From Middle East, Calls on Allies to Follow Suit

The United States has repatriated and charged the last four Americans captured by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and accused of supporting the ISIS terror group.

With this weeks repatriations, the United States has brought back every American supporter of ISIS known to be held by the Syrian Democratic Forces against whom we have charges, said John C. Demers, assistant attorney general for national security, in an Oct. 1 statement.

All known Americans detained by SDF and suspected of being ISIS supporters have been brought back to the United States from Syria and Iraq to face charges.

On Sept. 30, Emraan Ali, 53, and his 19-year-old son Jihad Ali appeared in federal court in Florida, charged with providing material support to the terror group. According to court documents, the pair traveled to Syria in March 2015 to join ISIS. They both allegedly received military training and fought on behalf of the terrorist organization.

The two surrendered to SDF forces near Baghuz in March last year, where ISIS fought one of its final battles to maintain its stronghold in Syria.

This announcement should serve as a warning to those who travel, or attempt to travel, to join and fight with ISIS. We remain vigilant in our efforts to prevent terrorism as well as hold terrorists, and those who provide support to terrorist organizations, accountable for their actions, Demers said.

In announcing the last of the repatriations, the Justice Department called on other nations to repatriate and, where appropriate, prosecute citizens who traveled to the Middle East to join ISIS in its terror activities.

We call on other nations, particularly in Western Europe, to take responsibility for their citizens, and we thank the FBI and the Department of Justice for their continued commitment to keeping alleged terrorists off of the battlefield, said Ambassador Nathan Sales, the State Department coordinator for counterterrorism.

Two other repatriated American citizens, Abdelhamid Al-Madioum and Lirim Sylejmani, either made court appearances or faced indictment on Sept. 16. Al-Madioum, who appeared in court in Minnesota, has been charged with providing material support to ISIS. Sylejmani, against whom an indictment was unsealed in a court in the District of Columbia, faces charges of conspiring to provide and providing material support to the terror group.

Theres been much debate over what should be done with people who joined or otherwise supported ISIS since the terror groups caliphate collapsed. The United States has long been pushing for allies to repatriate those who left to join the terrorist organization, but many countries, especially those in Western Europe, have been reluctant to do so.

The SDF continues to hold about 2,000 foreigners affiliated with ISIS in makeshift prisons in northeastern Syria. Another estimated 10,000 foreign women and children remain in displaced-persons camps in the region.
Webster Area uses hot-shooting performance to roll past Roncalli

Webster Area used a strong offensive performance, shooting better than 50% from the field to down Aberdeen Roncalli 68-39 on Friday night in Aberdeen.
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When the new homeless shelter opened on Hollywood's Schrader Boulevard in March 2019, Halcyon Selfmade was one of the first people to move inside. He's white, transgender, and spends most of his time in a wheelchair because of a medical condition he was diagnosed with at age nine. He has Stickler syndrome, a painful and progressive genetic disease that leads to brittle bones and weak connective tissue.

Hal and his partner moved to Los Angeles a couple of years ago from Tennessee after his transition became apparent. He says he was forced out of his apartment by an intolerant landlord.

"I'm not staying where I'm not wanted," he said.

They'd been living in a tent outside the Hollywood YMCA when they were offered a place at the new "A Bridge Home" nearby on Schrader Boulevard. It was part of a new breed of interim shelters where people could recover from the trauma of life on the street, be given medical services and three meals a day, before being moved into permanent housing.

Hal and his partner were told that within 90 days, they could expect to be connected with a wheelchair-accessible housing unit that they could afford on their roughly $1,200-a-month income.

They moved in.

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SHELTER EXPERIENCE

But the housing didn't materialize. Ninety days passed, and then 90 days passed again. Meanwhile Hal says he was bounced from one case manager who couldn't find an apartment to another that wouldn't set appointments with him. He says conditions inside the 72-bed congregate shelter were rough at best, and that he didn't feel safe because of transphobic threats aimed directly at him.

Plus, Hal says he saw regular use of hard drugs inside the shelter. Drug use is not allowed on site, but "active substance use" is not grounds to kick someone out of the program. It's the basis of a model of substance abuse treatment known as "harm reduction" that aims to provide a place where people can detox with support.

While Hal fully supported treating addiction as a health concern, and supporting people who struggle with substance abuse, the reality of someone illicitly smoking meth in the next bunk made him feel unsafe.

Finally, after eight months in the shelter, he was asked to leave. Hal recounts an offsite altercation where he claims he was defending himself and his partner from an aggressor. Officially, Hal says he was exited from the program for being a danger to the shelter's onsite staff.

So he and his partner set up camp on the street around the corner from the shelter, just a few blocks from where they'd been before. Despite having gone through the system, and been at the site for more than 90 days, Hal was little closer to finding housing than he was when he first decided to move into the shelter.

"I'm a shoo-in. I'm disabled from birth," he said of his prospects of getting housed. "I have a genetic condition that causes degenerative disc disease. There's no reason for me to have been out here as long as I have." The "Housing First" model, he says, shouldn't be a "giant runaround."

Halcyon Selfmade is pushed by a man at a protest against homeless sweeps in Hollywood in Aug. 2020. (Matt Tinoco/LAist)

THE GIANT RUNAROUND

Practically speaking, there is a reason Hal has been outside for as long as he has. Even though Los Angeles' homeless service system embraces the Housing First philosophy to end homelessness, its success hinges on having access to a robust supply of subsidized housing. Finding a unit of housing that meets Hal's unique needs is like looking for a needle in a haystack.

A single bed space inside of the Schrader "A Bridge Home" homeless shelter. (Matt Tinoco/LAist)

"If it's in my price range, it's not accessible. If it's accessible, it's not in my price range. If it's both accessible, and in my price range, it's too far away from where I need to be to get my medical care," he said.

In fact, one of the reasons Hal opted to move into the shelter on Schrader Boulevard is because it was only one block from his doctors at the Los Angeles LGBT Center. With a long list of medications, and complicated palette of medical conditions and drug interactions stemming both from his genetic disability and sex transition, the LGBT Center is likely one of the few places in the entire country where Hal can actually access comprehensive medical care.

Stepping back, it's no secret that L.A. has a shortage of inexpensive housing. It's one of the driving causes behind the region's escalating homelessness crisis. Even for those without Hal's particularly complicated circumstances, the perpetual bottleneck in L.A.'s homeless service system is that the amount of low-income housing actually available is far eclipsed by the number of people who need help.

The result is a homeless services system that staffs thousands to get people who are already homeless "ready" to move into housing, but struggles to rehouse them before more people end up on the street.

The 72-bed shelter where Hal stayed for eight months is a good example of how the system doesn't work as well as intended. In its first 17 months of operation, just 29 people were placed into permanent housing, according to the site's operator. Another 76 people either left the shelter voluntarily, moved into another interim housing facility, or were asked to leave like Hal and his partner.

Those results, experts have told LAist, are largely consistent with other interim shelters across Los Angeles' homeless service system.

DAY TO DAY

L.A. City Sanitation workers bleach a sidewalk in the Hollywood Special Enforcement and Cleaning Zone. (Matt Tinoco/LAist)

Since he left the shelter late in late 2019, Hal has been living on the street nearby in a tent large enough for his wheelchair. He spends almost all of his time in the area because of its proximity to his doctors, and because his mobility is limited to where he can get on public transit using a wheelchair.

But since the "A Bridge Home" site opened last year, those same city blocks are now inside a city-designated "Special Enforcement and Cleaning Zone."

These zones are an integral part of the "A Bridge Home" program, and can be found around almost all of the roughly two-dozen sites now open in Los Angeles. They were conceived by city politicians to coax housed residents and nearby businesses into "accepting" the proposed shelters by promising extra sanitation services and police enforcement to keep other homeless people from setting up camp in the designated area.

The zones stipulate rigorous enforcement of municipal code that allows the city to confiscate unattended items on the sidewalk, plus other provisions intended to dissuade camping in the zone.

It means Hal has to make sure his possessions are never left unattended, often defending them by reciting legal code to police officers who attempt to make him go somewhere else.

"If you don't use very specific language, they will find loopholes to make you move," he said. "And because I know how to speak, I have made them leave me alone more than once."

L.A. City Sanitation inspectors and LAHSA outreach workers speak with a person experiencing homelessness in the Hollywood Special Enforcement and Cleaning Zone. (Matt Tinoco/LAist)

That daily process of holding onto his few possessions -- which include his wheelchair, medications, and documentation -- is exhausting, and takes time away from efforts spent getting off the street.

But not everybody living outside is as articulate as Hal, and the day-to-day reality is that homeless people's belongings often get seized and thrown away. Consequently, advocates for the homeless are suing the city in federal court over the zones. They argue the zones violate the Fourth and Fourteenth amendments of the U.S. Constitution.

Hal's view is that the zones aren't really about "cleaning" -- they're about making homeless people go somewhere else.

"Nobody wants to see us, the unhoused. But this cleaning is not going to make us go away. You cannot wash us away. We are here. We are part of your community. And the sooner you start treating us like the neighbors that we are, the sooner we all get along and everybody's better off."

Hal still hasn't given up hope of finding an affordable wheelchair accessible housing unit that's not too far from his doctors. For now, he says case managers have told him he's on the waitlist for a coveted Section 8 housing voucher. Not that a voucher is a guarantee of finding a unit, but it's something.

This story has been updated to clarify the age when Hal was diagnosed with his disease, and the particular reason he left Tennessee.
In the past seven months, Louisiana hospitals have had to meet countless challenges as the coronavirus strained their staff and hospital capacity.

Surgeons took on coronavirus patients when elective procedures were halted and hospitals reached capacity. Hospital staff knocked out windows to create negative pressure rooms, and expanded into once-empty floors when patients outnumbered ICU beds. Researchers developed new techniques for sanitizing one-time use masks when protective equipment was scarce.

But as October arrives, doctors are eyeing a new challenge: a potential collision of COVID-19 and flu season that could once again strain hospital systems.

When we have a bad respiratory season, hospitals get filled up, said Dr. Julio Figueroa, the chief of infectious diseases at LSU Health Sciences Center. When we had a bad flu season during the H1N1 2009 season, we saw a lot of people in the hospital in the ICU on ventilators for a long time.

Hepatitis A cases linked to Galatoires, part of ongoing outbreak across Louisiana Louisiana health officials have notified Galatoire's Restaurant of potential cases of hepatitis A linked to the famed French Quarter bistro, a

Typically, Louisianas flu season starts at the end of October. The best time to get a flu shot is now, Figueroa said, because the protection the shot provides can take a few weeks to kick in.

[Were] trying to decrease the burden on the hospital system so youre not having a lot of people with flu in addition to a lot of people with COVID in the hospital requiring supportive care necessary for those kinds of patients, Figueroa said.

Flu can put pressure on the health care system even during normal times. A particularly bad flu season struck Louisiana last year. It arrived in August, and hospitals saw upwards of 15,000 hospitalizations and between 900 and 1,000 deaths, according to the Louisiana Department of Health.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention visited New Orleans because the number of positive flu tests was so high, particularly among children.

Louisiana ranks in the top 10 for obesity, making residents more susceptible to coronavirus complications A new report has found that about one in three Louisiana residents is obese, making it one of 12 states with an obesity rate over 35%.

Health officials anticipate coronavirus cases will also increase in the coming months, both because Louisiana has entered Phase 3 of its reopening plan  which will likely mean more infections as people interact  and because colder weather drives people indoors, where the virus transmits more easily.

Right now its beautiful weather, everyone is outside, said Figueroa. But when the weather gets nasty, thats when all the viral transmission occurs.

An overlap of the two diseases, which can have similar symptoms of fever, aches and cough, will make isolating and contact tracing difficult. Experts also worry about the potential of being infected with the flu and coronavirus at the same time, though its unclear at this point what complications that may cause.

How a 31-year-old New Orleans coronavirus survivor died from a rarely seen condition weeks later A 31-year-old woman checked in to a New Orleans hospital this spring after five days of fever, cough and stomach pain. Hospital workers stuck 

The flu also targets children, who dont appear to be as affected by COVID-19. And there is also a growing group of people still recovering from the long-term effects of the coronavirus who will be particularly vulnerable, Figueroa said.

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

Still, there's some hope for a mild flu season this year. Scientists typically watch what happens in the southern hemisphere to try and forecast what will happen here, and this year flu transmission there was much lower than normal during their winter, which occurs during the northern hemisphere summer.

For instance, in Australia, there were a little over 21,000 cases of influenza reported this year, according to the Australia Department of Health. Last year in the same time period there were more than 289,700.

Doctors attribute low flu transmission to the same practices used to keep coronavirus cases down: prohibitions on large gatherings, frequent handwashing, social distancing and masking.

Massive flu vaccination campaigns overseas and fewer people traveling has limited the virus' opportunities to hitch a ride north on an overseas flight.

Even if there are hopes for a mild flu season, experts said now is the time to be vigilant and continue to follow guidelines on wearing masks.

We definitely saw when the governor put the mask order into place that coronavirus infections went down, said Dr. Frank Welch, medical director for the Louisiana Department of Health. I know people are tired of it, but the virus waits for that. The virus doesnt get tired.

Most flu vaccines are given in hospitals and clinics in the private sector. But every year, the Louisiana Department of Health takes on a massive flu vaccination effort. Its purpose is two-fold: protect as many people as possible against the flu, and also practice for a potential pandemic.

This year, that effort will also serve as a practice for the distribution of the coronavirus vaccine and will help keep flu out of hospitals during an expected increase in coronavirus cases.

The state health department is planning a campaign that will start in mid to late October after the state supply of vaccines was delayed due to Hurricanes Laura and Sally.

The vaccines effectiveness depends on how well researchers are able to predict which strains will circulate. Its typically between 40% to 60% effective, though studies show the vaccine lessens the severity of the flu even if its not a good match for the strain.

Louisiana has the second-lowest rate of vaccination among adults of all states, according to the CDC. Just 37.2% of adults got a flu vaccine in the 2018-2019 season.

+4 Eyeing a 2nd coronavirus surge, heres what Louisiana doctors learned from the 1st 'tsunami' When the first case of coronavirus was diagnosed in Louisiana on March 9, doctors had little information about a disease that would soon threa

Even without the concern of coronavirus, the flu can cause a persons health to unravel. Patients often recover from the flu, only to die of pneumonia months later because of weakened lungs, Welch said. If people have the opportunity to get vaccinated for it, they should not delay.

Weve already lost so many people in Louisiana to coronavirus," said Welch. "Lets not add to that and lose people to the flu."
A man allegedly poisoned with a drug known as 'devil's breath' by a Grindr date was found virtually naked, 'agitated' and 'talking gibberish', paramedics told court.

The victim, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, was said to have accepted a glass of orange juice from his alleged assailant 'Remy' while on a date.

The 40-year-old man then began feeling 'fuzzy' and collapsed at his flat in Walthamstow, east London, on May 30 of last year.

Croydon Crown Court heard how the victim initially invited Remy, later idenfieid as defendant Joel Osei, 25, over for sex after making contact on gay dating app Grindr.

As well as drugging one of their victims with a substance known as 'devil's breath', defendants Joel Osei, 25, and Diana Cristea, 18, are also accused of murdering Adrian Murphy (pictured above) at his flat in Battersea, south London

Colombian 'Devil's Breath' date rape drug Scopolamine, also known as hyoscine or 'Devil's Breath', is made from Borrachero trees in Colombia, and used throughout the country to aid sexual predators and robbers. The odourless powder is blown into people's faces, which once inhaled can cause victims to lose their memory, free will, and in high enough doses, can even kill. It has been described as 'the most dangerous drug in the world'. In the past two years cases have been reported in Spain, France and the US. But last month, UK actor Robert Lindsay told Met Police a young woman he knew was attacked with a substance bearing a chilling resemblance to 'Devil's Breath' outside a London night club. The drug, also referred to as Burundanga in its native Colombia, is almost impossible to detect, as it disappears from the blood stream in two to six hours and can only be found in urine samples within 12. This makes it extremely difficult for victims to prove they have been given it  as they don't remember anything and it's untraceable in their system. Advertisement

But they ended up playing computer games and taking drugs before Osei laced the man's drink with scopolamine, known in Colombia as 'devil's breath', jurors were told.

The man was taken to hospital and discharged the next day. He later reported that items including his wallet, bank cards and two laptops worth about 2,000 had been stolen from his flat.

Osei and a second defendant, Diana Cristea, 18, are accused of stealing the victim's belongings.

They are also accused of murdering Adrian Murphy at his 17th-storey flat in Battersea, south London before allegedly using his name to try and buy more than $80,000 (62,000) worth of diamonds from a jeweller in New York.

In a witness statement, paramedic Christopher Paterson described arriving at the alleged victim's flat shortly after 9pm after a neighbour and friend raised the alarm.

Mr Paterson said: 'He was lying on his back and was dressed only in underpants.

'He was sweating, agitated and confused. Around the lounge area was evidence of drug-taking.

'He had a faster than normal heart rate, elevated blood pressure and a temperature.'

His ambulance colleague, Wilfred Payne, added: 'He was talking gibberish, he was not making any sense.'

Osei and Cristea are accused of killing dancer Mr Murphy between May 31 and June 5 last year after his body was found in the Battersea flat.

The pair then allegedly used his details to unsuccessfully buy 62,000 worth of diamonds from a jeweller in New York, the court heard previously.

Osei and Cristea allegedly murdered Mr Murphy (pictured) before using his name to try and buy more than 62,000 worth of diamonds from a jeweller in New York, the court heard

The trial at Croydon Crown Court heard how a victim was allegedly poisoned by a man posing as a 'Grindr date' who used a glass of juice laced with a date-rape drug known as 'devil's breath'

Prosecutor Crispin Aylett QC said the drug scopolamine, which is known as 'devil's breath' in Colombia and said to be 'popular with robbers and rapists' to incapacitate their victims, was used in both incidents.

Cristea, of Barnet, north London, has admitted one count of fraud, but denies the other charges  murder, administering a poison, two counts of theft and seven other fraud charges.

Osei, who was previously living in Seven Sisters but is now of no fixed address, denies murder, administering a poison, two counts of theft and eight counts of fraud.

The trial continues.
The National Literacy Summit offers an unparalleled professional learning experience."

Achieve3000, a pioneer in differentiated and personalized PreK-12 instructional solutions, and Successful Practices Network, a not-for-profit membership organization committed to improving education for all students, are once again partnering to present the 2nd Annual National Literacy Summit. In adherence with the CDCs COVID-19 guidance, this years Summit will take place online November 5, 2020, from 8:30 am  5:00 pm ET. Dynamic sessions led by 12 of todays most respected and accomplished education thought leaders will offer compelling perspectives on literacy and learning in todays rapidly changing K-12 environment.

This one-day professional learning event is designed for educators at all levels who are facing the difficult challenge of literacy instruction in the midst of a pandemic. Thought leaders and expert practitioners will explore the latest innovations and strategies to address the needs of students, especially those most at risk of falling behind. Presenters will focus on effective remote instruction, trauma skills, social emotional learning, culturally responsive literacy instruction, and what we can expect the future of literacy instruction to look like, among other on-trend themes.

The Summit offers an unparalleled professional learning experience, said Kevin Baird, Chief Academic Officer at Achieve3000. This year has brought many changes and challenges to school communities. Our panel of distinguished speakers will focus on these challenges and how educators can overcome them to create a positive impact in their schools.

The Summit features prominent national education leaders presenting thought-provoking research and innovative ideas, including:

Kweku Mandela

A Conversation with Kweku Mandela hosted by Tanyella Evans

Co-owner of the leading TV and film production company, Out of Africa, education activist, and grandson of the former South African President and anti-apartheid revolutionary, Nelson Mandela. Mandela also co-founded the non-profit Africa Rising with Ndaba Mandela with the mission of contributing to the development of the African continent and changing the perception of Africa by the global community through publications, film, media and social interaction.

Dr. Pedro Noguera

Literacy for All: Understanding and Responding to Racial Injustice in Education

Critically acclaimed scholar, dynamic speaker and a committed literacy activist. His work focuses on a broad range of issues related to education, social justice and public policy. He is the author of several best-selling books and is a highly sought-after public speaker and international consultant. Noguera is Dean of the Rossier School of Education at University of Southern California, Distinguished Professor of Education at the Graduate School of Education and Information Studies, and Faculty Director for the Center for the Transformation of Schools at UCLA.

Dr. Bill Daggett

Looking Forward: How Literacy Instructional Delivery is Going to Change

Nationally acclaimed author, presenter, thought leader, and adviser to educators and their stakeholders in planning and implementing systemic school change. He has served and consulted for such organizations as the Council of Chief State School Officers, the National Governors Association, and the U.S. Department of Education.

Dr. Douglas Fisher

All Learning Is Social and Emotional

Author of numerous articles on reading and literacy, differentiated instruction and curriculum design, as well as books such as Visible Learning for Literacy, Building Equity, and Assessment-Capable Learners. He is also Professor and Chair of the Department of Educational Leadership at San Diego University.

Dr. Gholnecsar (Gholdy) Muhammad

Cultivating Genius: An Equity Model for Culturally and Historically Responsive Literacy

Best-selling author of Cultivating Genius: An Equity Model for Culturally and Historically Responsive Literacy and transformative leader in culturally responsive education, Dr. Muhammad works with teachers and young people across the United States and South Africa to instill best practices for culturally responsive instruction. Dr. Muhammad is currently an associate professor of Language and Literacy at Georgia State University. Additionally, she serves as the director of the Urban Literacy Collaborative and Clinic.

Mr. Dwayne Reed

Relationships Matter

Americas Favorite Rapping Teacher, Dwayne Reed, has been crisscrossing the globe, promoting his message of love and equity in education. After seeing viral success with the release of his educational music video, Welcome to the 4th Grade, Reed has been on a mission to convince the world that relationships mean everything in education.

Dr. Salome Thomas-EL

Passionate Leadership in a Changing World: Addressing Equity, Social Justice and Culture

Highly-praised author of I Choose to Stay and The Immortality of Influence, Dr. Thomas-EL is a dynamic story-teller known for his inspirational leadership as the Head of School for Thomas Edison Charter School. He is a recipient of the Marcus A. Foster Award and the University of Pennsylvanias distinguished Martin Luther King Award.

Dr. Carol Ann Tomlinson

Teaching in Two Worlds: Strategies for Attending to Students Differences in a Remote Learning Environment

A renowned leader in education, Dr. Tomlinson works nationwide and internationally with educators who seek to embrace differentiated instruction. She is Professor and Chair of Educational Leadership, Foundations, and Policy at University of Virginia, and Co-Director of Currys Institute on Academic Diversity.

National Literacy Summit registrants will have access to 12, one-hour live sessions on November 5th. Alternatively, participants may access all sessions, on-demand, for up to one year following the event. Participants may earn up to 12 CE certificates. The cost to participate in The National Literacy Summit is $99.00, and registration is now open.

About the National Literacy Summit.

The National Literacy Summit is a dynamic, professional development event for all educators. It is brought to you by the Successful Practices Network (SPN), a nonprofit organization dedicated to sharing best practices with K-12 education leaders and by co-host Achieve3000, a leading ed tech company accelerating literacy growth through personalized and differentiated solutions.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 09:52:16|Editor: huaxia

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SYDNEY, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel were due to touch down in the country's west on Thursday to assist with a COVID-19 outbreak aboard an offshore vessel near Port Hedland, one of the world's largest iron ore shipping junctions.

The Patricia Oldendorff bulk carrier, whose crew travelled from the Philippines, declared this week that 17 of the 21 people on board had tested positive for the virus.

As of Wednesday, 10 crew members had been removed and contained in hotel quarantine, while 11 remained on board as essential crew, seven of whom were positive for COVID-19.

ADF personnel were called in to assist local police and security forces in conducting the hotel quarantine and containment of the virus to ensure it did not spread to the local community.

The sparsely populated State of Western Australia (WA) has not recorded any cases of community transmission since early April when it closed its international and domestic borders, making it one of the most successful jurisdictions in the country in terms of virus containment.

WA Health Minister Roger Cook has said he planned for the infected crew members to begin recovering, and the ship is expected to depart Australia's waters by Oct. 10.

"We'll be able to start declaring some of the crew disease-free in the coming days," Cook said.

None of the crew members were said to be in need of serious medical assistance, with only a few showing mild symptoms, however WA health authorities said it would be provided if necessary. Enditem
LONDON - Britain imposed tighter restrictions on social gatherings in the port city of Liverpool and three towns as scientists reported Thursday that the number of COVID-19 cases in England has quadrupled or more in the last month.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 1/10/2020 (478 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson flanked by his bodyguard leaves 10 Downing Street for the House of Commons to attend his weekly Prime Minister's Questions in London, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2020. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)

LONDON - Britain imposed tighter restrictions on social gatherings in the port city of Liverpool and three towns as scientists reported Thursday that the number of COVID-19 cases in England has quadrupled or more in the last month.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock told the House of Commons on Thursday that the infection rate in Liverpool had risen to 268 per 100,000 people, seven times the national average. He said it was time to extend tougher measures to the city, as well as to the nearby town of Warrington and in Hartlepool and Middlesbrough, which are at the other side of the country.

The restrictions are similar to those imposed in northeastern England earlier this week, which forbid mixing of households except in public spaces like parks. The government also recommended that people visit nursing homes only in exceptional circumstances.

"Weve had to take difficult but necessary decisions to suppress the virus," Hancock said. "The only alternative to suppressing the virus is to let it rip, and I will not do that."

The measures announced Thursday are the latest in a series of heightened restrictions targeting local coronavirus hotspots as the British government struggles to control the spread of COVID-19. Confirmed daily new cases of COVID-19 rose above 7,000 in each of the past two days, the highest recorded since the pandemic began. Britains official death toll has passed 42,000  the highest in Europe.

But scientists have offered some hope that the spread of the disease may be slowing.

A large government-commissioned study that randomly tested tens of thousands of people in England found that the epidemic is not increasing as rapidly as scientists had feared.

"At the moment, we seem to be still at very high levels of the virus, and we do seem to still have a bit of an upward trajectory, but that very fast increase in the virus seems to have slowed and thats very encouraging," Paul Elliott, chair of epidemiology at Imperial College London, told the BBC.

Research by Elliott and his colleagues, based on testing of more than 80,000 volunteers across England Sept. 18-26, found around one in 200 people were infected with the coronavirus, an increase from about 1 in 800 people in early September.

Still, Elliott said the time to act was now.

"We need to get on top of this now so we dont have an exponential increase," he said.

In addition to local restrictions, Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government last week banned social gatherings of more than six people and imposed a 10 p.m. curfew on bars and restaurants throughout England.

Dr. David Strain of the British Medical Association urged caution, as infection rates remain high among certain groups. He noted that factors other than the government measures may be slowing the disease's spread.

"We should not be fooled into thinking that current government measures like the rule of six  themselves confusing and inconsistent  are the silver bullet to defeating COVID-19,'' Strain said. "Everyone in their daily life needs to be aware of the risks that this deadly virus still poses.''

Elliott's study noted that the steep rise in cases began in August  when the U.K. government launched a month-long promotion offering people discounts to eat at restaurants as authorities sought to jumpstart the economy after a nationwide lockdown.

Their study noted that rates of infection are increasing among all age groups in England, with the highest prevalence among 18 to 24-year-olds. The scientists reported that Black people and those of Asian descent were twice as likely to have COVID-19 as white people in England.

Meanwhile, authorities tightened restrictions on people arriving in England from Turkey and Poland, ordering them to quarantine for 14 days because of a rise in coronavirus infection rates in those countries.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said Thursday that the Caribbean islands of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba have also been added to the quarantine list.

The measure takes effect at 4 a.m. U.K. time (0300GMT) on Saturday.

The addition of Turkey -- a major tourism destination for people from the U.K. -- follows an admission by the countrys health minister that the governments daily COVID-19 figures reflect only patients with symptoms and not all positive cases.

Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement.

Britain requires people to self-isolate for two weeks if arriving from anywhere except a list of "travel corridor" nations that have low infection rates. The list of exemptions is reviewed each Thursday. That has left many travellers scrambling to return from previously "safe" countries before the deadline.

Scotland, which sets its own quarantine rules, announced a similar move.

___

Jill Lawless contributed to this story

___

Follow APs pandemic coverage at http://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak and https://apnews.com/UnderstandingtheOutbreak
The tragic reality is that there's nothing "new" about a recent crime prevention plan revealed by the Mayor, the Jackson County Prosecutor and chief of police today.

Moreover . . .

This "plan" isn't just bereft of new ideas, it's dishonest with the public inasmuch most residents realize that all of the politicos presenting this scheme are at war with one another behind the scenes.

The mayor was outed in his promise to join forces with groups working to oust the top cop. Meanwhile, Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker has been feuding with KCPD for at least the past two years. Apropos for campaign season, she has recently added the fight against police brutality to her agenda.

Moreover, the KCPD Chief dutifully undercut the plan's premiere by informing the public of a far more dire situation that confronts the community: Budget cuts impacting the police department which threaten to spike police response times and the 911 waiting game.



Translation: These politicos can't cooperate with each other and so their ability to lead the public in reducing violence is suspect.

Worst of all, a close look at the news cycle today offers insiders a more realistic glimpse at the effort . . .



KANSAS CITY NEWSIES REGARD THE "NEW" CRIME PREVENTION PLAN AS NOTHING MORE THAN A BAD JOKE!!!



Covering this story was an assignment given to mostly rookie or no-name reporters and the media isn't putting a lot of energy into broadcasting it because viewers don't like hearing more empty promises. For the past few years, every time the murder count gets out of control a similar "new plan" is promoted and has little or no impact on the homicide rate.



The bloodiest year in Kansas City history is quickly becoming a reality and if this is the answer to the increased carnage then locals can reasonably expect the slaughter on local streets to persist.

Checkit:



KCUR: Enough Is Enough': Kansas City Mayor Announces New Approach To Tackling Violent Crime

Deets:



"It targets things like better-lit neighborhoods, connecting with at-risk individuals, a higher crime clearance rate and stripping the city code of discriminatory policies . . . There will be a large community component to the plan.

City leaders will start going on walks around neighborhoods with their residents on Thursday to hear more about what they need in order to deter crime in their areas.

"Let's make the community the first part of it. Let's make neighborhoods the focus," Lucas said while emphasizing the need for officials and community leaders to listen to members of the community. "We're not just saying we don't care about your opinion because you got in trouble."

You decide . . .
A man wearing expensive active wear and carrying a duffle bag allegedly tried to abduct a child in front of their parents and grandparents.

A Sydney mother took to Facebook to warn people about the man who she said had an Eastern European accent and was built like a personal trainer.

She said the man, who looked about 30-years-old and had olive skin and grey active wear, was trying to get the attention of her friend's child at Centennial Park on November 24.

A well built man in active wear allegedly tried to abduct a small child from in front of his parents and grandparents at Sydney's Centennial Park (pictured) on November 24

He allegedly said he'd mistaken the small boy for his own child before he moved on.

Mrs Harris said the young man started calling out for someone named 'Olly' before he left the park without a child in toe.

The concerned mother said she'd heard the same man had allegedly been seen at the Clovelly playground, and around the Waverley area, in Sydney's east.

A NSW Police spokeswoman told Daily Mail Australia there was no report released on the alleged incident.
Six rockets were fired from Nineveh province by the Hashed al-Shaabi, targeting Arbil airport

The counter-terrorism division of Iraq's autonomous Kurdish region on Wednesday accused the Hashed al-Shaabi, a state-sponsored paramilitary network dominated by pro-Iran forces, of targeting US forces in a rocket attack.

"Six rockets were fired from Nineveh province by the Hashed al-Shaabi, targeting Arbil airport," where US troops are based, on Wednesday, it said in a statement.

Souran Ali, a commander of the Democratic Party of Iranian Kurdistan (PDK-I) -- an Iranian opposition group that operates in Iraq's Kurdish region -- earlier said three rockets had been fired, without causing casualties.

Three rockets "targeted at 8.30pm (1730 GMT) a headquarters of the PDK-I two kilometres" from Arbil airport, he said.

Video footage circulating online purported to show fires started by the rockets.

Hoshyar Zebari, a former Iraqi foreign minister and an Iraqi Kurdish politician, said on Twitter that the rockets were fired by the "same groups who are attacking #USEmbassy in #Baghdad and its convoys. Action is needed to stop it."

Around 40 rocket attacks have targeted US interests in Iraq since early August, including one on Monday that hit a village close to Baghdad airport, where American troops are stationed. That attack killed five children and two women from the same family.

The US State Department on Tuesday pointed the finger of blame at Iran-backed militias operating in Iraq, saying they "pose an unacceptable danger" in Iraq.

Washington has threatened to close its embassy in Iraq and withdraw its 3,000 troops from the country unless the rockets stop.

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USOSM President and CEO Richard Hall says the company plans to continue forging new ties in Atlanta and beyond. In August of 2019, we announced our first partnership in the Atlanta area and our intention to continue cultivating relationships in this significant market. Since then, weve formed partnerships with 21 oral surgeons and 21 locations in Atlanta.

U.S. Oral Surgery Management (USOSM)  a specialty management services company headquartered in Irving, Texas, that exclusively serves premier oral and maxillofacial surgeons  has formed a new partnership in the Atlanta, Georgia, area. The newest partner is Richard E. Paul, DMD, PC, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, which has locations in McDonough and Griffin. This news comes on the heels of USOSMs recent announcement of a new partnership with Oral Surgery Associates & Dental Implant Centers, also in the Atlanta, Georgia, area.

In August of 2019, we announced our first partnership in the Atlanta area and our intention to continue cultivating relationships in this significant market. Since then, weve formed partnerships with 21 oral surgeons and 21 locations in Atlanta. We intend to continue forging new ties in this region and in other important areas of the United States, said Richard Hall, USOSM president and CEO. We are truly honored to partner with Dr. Richard E. Paul, an exceptional oral and maxillofacial surgeon, who is well respected and well liked within the communities he serves and throughout the OMS industry.

With more than 25 years of experience in oral surgery, Dr. Paul practices a full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery with particular expertise in dental extractions and dental implants. He also treats patients with oral pathology and maxillofacial injuries. In addition to his private practice, Dr. Paul has served on the faculty of the Emory University School of Medicine for nearly 25 years, participating in the training of the oral surgery residents.

I've been a solo practitioner for many years, but the single doctor, private practice business model is disappearing, and the way we do business is changing, noted Dr. Paul. I specialize in oral and maxillofacial surgery. USOSM specializes in the business of oral and maxillofacial surgery. Partnering with an OMS business specialist means I can focus on the needs of my patients and USOSM can focus on the business side of my practice, which is a benefit to my patients, staff and myself.

Headquartered in Irving, Texas, USOSM has partner practices spanning six states: Texas, Colorado, Georgia, Tennessee, Minnesota and Alabama. USOSM collaborates with premier oral and maxillofacial surgeons to offer a partnership solution for continued and accelerated practice success. USOSM provides operational, marketing and administrative support services, reinvests resources, and applies best practices to improve clinical and financial performance and produce steadier, more profitable growth for all.
K ate Garraway has spoken out against those who are becoming increasingly indifferent against the ongoing battle against coronavirus.

The 53-year-old gave an impassioned plea on Good Morning Britain for people to keep to the rules set by the government as the UK enters the second wave of the ongoing pandemic.

I have huge sympathy with people who are fed up of it, she said. I think, if you havent been directly touched by it, and you havent seen the devastation, but your life has been devastated  your livelihood, your ability to feel a sense of joy  then of course youre going to get frustrated.

Garraway added that she wanted to show people who had stopped abiding by the rules what her husband Derek Draper now looks like. The former Labour lobbyist has been in hospital since March and although he has since tested negative for the virus, he has only recovered a low level of consciousness after being placed in an induced coma.

Garraway became emotional as she asked people to take coronavirus seriously / ITV

It does make me tempted to show a picture of Derek in his current state and say, You dont want this in your life, she added.

You dont know who it will affect and how, so stick to it.

The presenter also said the continued mixed messaging a new rules affecting different areas to the country has led to an uncertainty of what the rules are.

Derek Draper has been in hospital for months as he fights coronavirus / Rex Features

I think theres huge confusion around it and weve been told different messages at different times, but we kind of know that wearing a mask, not mixing with people, social distancingwe know the basics and we just have to do our best.

Garraways speech on Good Morning Britain comes after the Prime Ministers Stanley Johnson said he was extremely sorry to have been pictured not wearing a mask while in a newsagents.

Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has also faced criticism today after being photographed at a dinner party with nine people, breaking the UKs strict new rule of six.

Good Morning Britain continues weekdays from 6am on ITV
BLACKROCK LATIN AMERICAN INVESTMENT TRUST PLC (the "Company")

LEI: UK9OG5Q0CYUDFGRX4151

Voting Rights and Capital (Article 15 Transparency Directive, DTR 5.6)

In conformity with the FCA's Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rule 5.6.1R, the Company would like to notify the market of the following:

As at 30 September 2020, BlackRock Latin American Investment Trust plc's capital consists of 39,259,620 Ordinary Shares of 10 cents each, carrying one vote each, excluding 2,181,662 ordinary shares held in treasury.

As at 30 September 2020, the total number of voting rights for Ordinary shareholders in BlackRock Latin American Investment Trust plc is 39,259,620.

Shareholders should use 39,259,620 as the denominator for the calculations by which they will determine if they are required to notify their interest in, or a change to their interest in, the Company.

All enquiries:

Sarah Beynsberger

BlackRock Investment Management (UK) Limited, Company Secretary

Tel: 0207 743 2639

1 October 2020
(Natural News) Video capture shots from last nights debate between Trump and Biden clearly show Joe Biden wearing wired electronic devices, in violation of debate rules. The appearance of a wire under his jacket was abundantly obvious for a few seconds, as he tried to tuck the wire back into a hidden location (see video shots below).

The use of electronics confirms that Joe Bidens performance was dishonestly augmented by off-camera controllers who were likely speaking to him through a hidden earpiece.

Before the debate, the Joe Bidens team refused to allow a third party inspection of Bidens ears for electronic devices, contradicting their earlier promise that Biden would agree to be inspected before the debate.

At one point in the debate, Joe Biden reached into his jacket using his left hand and appeared to be adjusting the volume of a wireless receiver or something similar. As he removed his hand, a black wire clearly emerged from under his suit jacket:

Watch this short video to see it very clearly:

Here it is on Twitter:

There you have it folks! Wired!!! pic.twitter.com/JmY1zWTUrj  Kaya Jones (@KayaJones) September 30, 2020

A video posted on Brighteon.com shows the same wire, clear as day:

Brighteon.com/f90f19c8-2c37-493a-ab9d-a9a0bc83f4c7

Another controversy erupted over what looks like a small microphone under the shirt sleeve of Bidens left arm, but this could be easily explained away as a bracelet of some kind. And why would Biden need to be wearing a microphone?

https://twitter.com/CMONMAN77177847/status/1311261387637903361

Some people believe this video shows Biden telling his off-camera handling team, Good luck before answering the question from Wallace:

Biden DEFINITELY had an earpiece pic.twitter.com/kSpIPvKOVi  Into The Fight Podcast (@itfpod) September 30, 2020

While the microphone may not be convincing, the chest-height wire under Bidens jacket is rather obvious. The fake news media is currently trying to gaslight everybody into thinking its a shadow, but thats no shadow. Its a wire. If Trump were wearing the same thing, the media would instantly accuse him of wearing an electronic device.

If Biden was receiving assistance or instructions from his off-camera team, that would make him a cheat, which is entirely consistent with his dishonest denials that his son, Hunter Biden, received $3.5 million from Moscow.

Hillary Clinton cheated in the 2016 debates by having CNN give her the questions in advance. All Democrats are cheaters. They are trying to cheat their way to the White House through rigged debates, rigged mail-in ballots and rigged online speech (where all pro-Trump voices are blacklisted and de-platformed).

Democrats even cheated by illegally spying on Trump and then concocting a false Russia conspiracy to try to have him thrown out of office. We now know, thanks to newly-declassified documents from the Director of National Intelligence (DNI), that Hillary Clinton masterminded the entire affair.

Because, of course, Hillary Clinton is a cheat too, just like Biden.

Read more news about Joe Biden trying to cheat his way to the White House at JoeBiden.news
BEIRUT (AP)  The lead investigator into the August blast at Beiruts port that killed and wounded many people issued two arrest warrants Thursday for the captain and owner of a ship that carried thousands of tons of ammonium nitrate to Beirut seven years ago, the state-run National News Agency said.

Nearly 3,000 tons of ammonium nitrates stored at Beiruts port exploded on Aug. 4, killing 193, wounding about 6,500 and causing damage worth billions of dollars.

The news agency said judge Fadi Sawwan referred the case to the state prosecution that asked Interpol to detain the two Russian citizens.

NNA did not give the names of the two men but Boris Prokoshev was the captain who sailed the MV Rhosus from Turkey to Beirut in 2013. Igor Grechushkin, a Russian businessman residing in the Mediterranean island of Cyprus, bought the cargo ship in 2012 from Cypriot businessman Charalambos Manoli. Grechushkin has been questioned by police on request of Interpols Lebanon office in August.

More than two dozen people, most of them port and customs officials, have been detained since the blast which is considered to be one of the biggest non-nuclear explosions ever recorded.

The Rhosus set out from the Georgian Black Sea port of Batumi carrying 2,755.5 tons of ammonium nitrate destined for an explosives company in Mozambique. It made an unscheduled detour, stopping in Beirut on Nov. 19, 2013.

In October 2014, the ammonium nitrate was moved into the ports Warehouse 12, which holds impounded materials. The ammonium nitrate remained at the warehouse until it exploded while the Rhosus never left the port and sank there in February 2018, according to Lebanese official documents.
The Paramount Chief of the Garu Traditional Area, Naaba Akontam Suguru Awuni, has said the current and future generation will applaud President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and the NPP, for the introduction of the Free SHS among other projects since their administration started in January 2017.



According to the chief, the introduction of the Planting for Food and Jobs initiative, and other policies implemented by the NPP government since they took over office have transformed the lives of Ghanaians.

Describing the Free SHS policy as the greatest intervention to hit the education sector in the countrys pre-and post-colonial history, Naaba Akontam Suguru Awini said students and parents on any day will forever be grateful to the President.



The Chief made this comment when the Minister for Communications, Mrs. Ursula Owusu Ekuful paid a courtesy call on the chiefs and Queen Mothers of Garu, as part of her tour to rally support for the NPP in the Upper East Region ahead of the December parliamentary and presidential elections.



we have Planting for Food and Jobs, I am not surprised that our people have nicknamed the President as a friend to farmers". The Chief noted.



Naaba Akontam Suguru Awini used the occasion to appeal to the Minister of Communications and Roads Minister to fast-tract the construction of the leftover roads.



He assured the NPP of his commitment to gain more votes for the party to enable them continue their prospects of good works for Ghana and the people of Garu.







Source: Peacefmonline.com









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President Donald Trump gestures while speaking during the first presidential debate Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2020, at which he refused to condemn white supremacy. Read more

Philadelphias large pro-immigrant community spun into action on Wednesday, sharing information and restarting resistance training following reports that the Trump administration intends to launch pre-Election-Day raids here and in other sanctuary cities.

Our goal is not to cause panic, but our communities have a right to know and be prepared, said Erika Guadalupe Nunez, executive director of Juntos, the South Philadelphia-based Latino advocacy group. The recent news, its a concentrated effort to highlight the law-and-order efforts of the Trump administration  Were not going to allow these fear-mongering tactics to go unchallenged.

The Washington Post reported on Tuesday night that ICE officials planned to increase enforcement in three sanctuary cities prior to the election. The campaign is likely to begin in California this week before expanding to Philadelphia and Denver, and would focus on arresting undocumented immigrants who have criminal records beyond their immigration violations.

Calls from community members started coming into Juntos shortly after the news broke. On Wednesday the group was moving to restart its community resistance training, which alerts residents to their rights and explains how they should respond if ICE comes to their homes.

Advocates advise: If ICE officers knock on the door, dont open it. If the agents say they have a warrant, ask them to slide it under the door. Should you be stopped by officers outside, do not answer questions or sign any papers. Say only that you wish to speak to a lawyer.

 READ MORE: Amnesty International billboards in Philly and other cities demand freedom for immigrant families in ICE custody

ICE officials in Philadelphia and Washington, both sanctuary cities, declined to comment on any pending enforcement operations. In sanctuary jurisdictions, the agency said in a statement, ICE is forced to arrest at-large criminal aliens out in the communities instead of under the safe confines of a jail.

It condemned those places' lack of cooperation with federal immigration authorities and accused advocacy groups, citizens and local officials of sharing misleading information about the agencys mission, such that innocent bystanders, targeted aliens and ICE officers are placed in danger.

Mayor Jim Kenney said ICE had not notified the city of any plans to step up enforcement but said that even if the agency were to do so, it would not change the citys approach to its undocumented population.

Unfortunately, this is not the first time that President Trump has attempted to create fear in our undocumented-immigrant communities," he said. "The frequent threats of deportation raids by Trump and his administration do nothing but make our communities less safe by driving people into the shadows and away from people working to keep them safe.

New Sanctuary Movement of Philadelphia, an advocacy organization that includes more than 30 member churches, on Wednesday was checking with community members to make sure people know their rights, and to encourage everyone to connect with friends, organizations and congregations for mutual support. And for residents to make sure they have a trustworthy lawyer.

Were telling people not to panic. We need to remember weve seen this before, said NSM co-director Peter Pedemonti.

It was striking, he said, to see the Post story appear the same night that President Donald Trump refused to condemn white supremacy during the presidential debate.

If anyone didnt believe these policies are based in white supremacist ideology, seeing those two side by side just makes it so clear, Pedemonti said. Its a clear campaign tactic, to spread a wave of fear and panic across the country. Hes using this to stir up his base.

Trump and his administration have routinely sharply condemned sanctuary jurisdictions, and the new effort would come amid broader attacks by the president on Democratic mayors like Kenney  over the citys rising rates of homicides and shootings, and over the racial-justice protests that have occurred here and elsewhere.

And two of the U.S. officials who spoke to the Post described the planned ICE blitz as more of a political messaging campaign than a significant new operation.

 READ MORE: After two years in Philly church sanctuary, an undocumented immigrant family departs  but not to freedom

Trump has reoriented his reelection campaign in recent weeks to portray himself as the law and order candidate, a phrase used by Richard Nixon and George Wallace to signal a need for a forceful response to perceived crime and violence.

Being a sanctuary city means different things in different jurisdictions, but in Philadelphia it comes down to this: While city police and ICE will work together on certain criminal investigations, local officers do not help federal immigration authorities in rounding up, arresting and removing migrants. Furthermore, in 2018 the city won a major lawsuit saying the Justice Department could not use federal grant funds to coerce it to do so.

City police officers arrest people who they believe have committed crimes, regardless of immigration status, and a judge decides whether and when those people should be released. If ICE wants the city to keep a suspect in custody, it needs to present a signed judicial warrant, not an ICE-issued detainer, and then that person will be held.

In the past year, Philadelphias jails have received 44 ICE detainers and arrest warrants, but only 11 of the warrants have been signed by a judge, a spokesman for the city said.

ICE insists that unsigned detainers alone should be valid. The city says it could be sued  as other governments have been  for keeping someone in jail beyond the release date set by a judge.

 READ MORE: After lawsuit and quick naturalizations, 2,200 Philly-area immigrants can vote in November

Immigration advocates here said Wednesday that they know the administrations announcements of ICE raids can ultimately fall short of their billing, but they still must be proactive.

In 2017, Philadelphia was hit when federal authorities came knocking on doors in 10 sanctuary cities, taking away nearly 500 undocumented immigrants during a nationwide four-day sweep. The city saw the largest number of arrests, with 107 people caught in raids.

In July 2019, however, few reports of arrests emerged from Trumps promised deportation raids in major American cities. ICE agents were to carry out arrests in Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, and San Francisco, targeting at least 2,000 migrants who had received final deportation orders. Ultimately, 35 people were detained.

The advance notice of these types of operations, while generating news that makes the administration appear tough on undocumented migrants, also gives advocacy organizations time to prepare.

We have to take everything seriously, Juntos director Nunez said. We want to make sure our people have information, and know their rights and their power. Thats the best defense no matter what.
Dean of the School of Performing Arts of the University of Ghana, Professor Kofi Agyekum, popularly known as Opanyin Agyekum has registered his displeasure with the recent happenings in the Volta Region involving a group described as the Western Togoland Secessionists.



Members of the group have recently been agitating for the restoration of the Western Togoland as an independent State from Ghana.



Secessonists Attacks



The group, on Friday, September 25, 2020, blocked some major roads in the Volta Region impeding vehicular movement and leaving passengers commuting to areas in the Region very stranded.



They also attacked some Police stations in the Region amidst beliefs that they went in search for ammunitions to advance their course.



On Tuesday, September 29, some buses belonging to the State Transport Corporation were set ablaze and the group is said to have masterminded the arson attack.



Counter Force



Some people have called on the government to apply counter force to bring the group to order.



Seasoned journalist, Abdul Malik Kweku Baako shares a common belief that the use of counter force will help to resolve the issue.



To him, dialogue as some concerned persons have suggested is not the solution.



"Dialogue to what end? dialoguing with whom and for what?



"You sit with them to achieve what purpose? . . . They're already on board. They're within Ghana. They're Ghanaian citizens. So, what are we going to negotiate?" he questioned.



"If they use force, we should apply counter force . . . If they apply force, the State of Ghana should apply counter force to keep the unitary character of Ghana intact...No compromise on that; there will be no negotiation," he insisted.



No Gov't Will Accept Your Demand



Also speaking in relation to the issue, Opanyin Agyekum says no government will heed the demands of the secessionists.



Accoridng to him, the Western Togoland that the group is demanding has no basis and is non-existent.



Opanyin Agyekum wondered why the group is misbehaving because, to him, Ghana is blessed with over 70 ethnic groups which have amalgamated and peacefully exist.



He cautioned the secessionists to stop their attacks saying ''we don't have anything as Western Togo anywhere. So, let nobody think he or she can separate himself/herself and I don't believe any government will sit on the fence and watch them go. Where will they be leaving to?...It won't work''.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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.

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Members of the Proud Boys, including leader Enrique Tarrio, second from left, gesture and cheer on stage as they and other right-wing demonstrators rally in Portland, Ore. During Tuesday night's debate, President Donald Trump didn't condemn white supremacist groups and their role in violence in some American cities this summer. Instead, he said the violence is a left-wing" problem and he told one far-right extremist group to stand back and stand by. Read more

September 29, 2020, will likely go down in history as one of the darkest days in American democracy  but arguably not in the way the average voter saw things. All eyes, after all, were focused on a debate stage in Cleveland where the 45th and possibly last president of the United States was interrupting and yelling like a lunatic at rival Joe Biden or moderator Chris Wallace  as if he were instead alone in his White House bedroom, and had accidentally turned his TV to MSNBC instead of the comforts of Fox and Friends.

On the bloody morning after, the mainstream media headline writers seemed to have one word for what went down during a stroke-inducing night at the Cleveland Clinic: Chaos." Yet what was scary about the first (and, who knows, maybe the last?) presidential debate wasnt that Donald Trump was out-of-control, but that there was actual method to this madness. For one thing, the presidents imitation of a drunk nightclub heckler was meant to make you lose faith  in the November 3 election, and in America itself. With just a month to go, its getting impossible for Trump to win a legitimate vote, so he wants to delegitimize it.

And the really frightening stuff was already happening offstage, especially here in Pennsylvania, the state that increasingly looks like Trumps only viable path to a second term. On an Indian summer night in Ohio, the president laid out a shockingly clear vision for how he plans to steal the fall election. But it was in places like a makeshift trailer in the Overbrook section of Philadelphia  the city where Trump insists bad things happen"  to the virtual corridors of Harrisburg where his first wave of shock troops are executing the plan.

What else is one to make of Trumps army of 50,000 election observations like the unauthorized, lacking-proper-papers woman who was made to leave that makeshift voting site in Overbrook, where some voters were allegedly filmed  a ploy that historically has been used by Republicans to make voters in mostly Democratic neighborhoods uncomfortable, so some will just go home? Or this weeks maneuvers by Republicans in the Pennsylvania Legislature to establish a special election committee with subpoena power that disrupt voting on or before November 3 and which could become a vehicle to yell fraud, ignore the vote count, and install pro-Trump electors.

Democracies die slowly and I think this bill would be a fatal blow to our democracy, an angry and emotional Democratic state Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta of Philadelphia told a hearing on that resolution Wednesday  held just hours after the debate where Trump showed America that, despite his lack of interest in learning how to govern, he does have a firm grasp on how to rig an election in the mode of his dictator friends like Russias Vladimir Putin.

Losing to Biden by as many as 10 points in national polls, and with real-world problems like the coronavirus getting worse instead of better, Trump was surprisingly open and, dare I say it, honest about his strategy. It starts with suppressing the vote count  both by alienating the electorate, as he did at Tuesdays debate, and also by active measures from slowing down the U.S. mail, to state lawsuits to make both voting and the counting more difficult, to disruptions on Election Day both from his trained poll watchers and from ad hoc militias like the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers.

 READ MORE: Yes, the Reichstag is on fire, but the American people have water to put it out | Will Bunch

The goal is to make the early vote count close enough that Trump and his minions will then declare fraud and seize on either trivial issues  like just 9 disputed ballots in Luzerne County, Pa.  or cite legitimate protests over the presidents refusal to concede as a pretense for instead declaring victory, possibly with the aid of GOP legislators in Pennsylvania and other disputed states.

Alexander Lukashenko, in Belarus, couldnt have planned it any better.

What was so remarkable about Trumps debate tactics was that no only did he reveal his strategy, but he gave away his tactics. For example:

Paramilitary brownshirts: Many were right in the aftermath of the debate to identify the critical moment as when Trump failed to condemn white supremacists  despite insistent prodding from both Biden and Wallace  but even more alarming was his apparent bat-signal for a violent mob, the Proud Boys, to intervene. The presidents bizarre and incendiary language  Stand back and stand by!  almost seemed planned, and it was quickly embraced by the Proud Boys themselves and other white supremacists.

Could bands of Trump supporters disrupt polling places? They already have, on the second day of early voting in Virginia, where a gaggle of chanting, flag-waving Trump supporters caused a disruption that election officials said intimidated some voters. Its a tactic that seems strange to Americans but is all too familiar to beleaguered citizens of other authoritarian nations where loose bands of typically armed paramilitaries or militias  role models for our Proud Boys and Oath Keepers  are a staple of undemocratic politics.

Ballot security intimidation: Im urging my supporters to go into the polls and watch very carefully because thats what has to happen, Trump said Wednesday night. It was hardly an idle boast. The presidents campaign has worked with the Republican Party to spend $20 million on reportedly training some 50,000 volunteer election observers in 15 states. Pennsylvanians got an early glimpse of this campaign with the unnamed volunteer who was asked to leave the Overbrook site Tuesday, and then at Philadelphia City Hall, where Politico reports that an irate James Fitzpatrick, Trumps Pennsylvania Election Day director of operations, was escorted out by sheriffs deputies after filming voters and being asked to leave.

Before a 2018 court ruling, the Republican National Committee was, under a legal settlement, barred from these kind of activities. That was because of a notorious 1981 election in New Jersey in which Republicans created a National Ballot Security Task Force that dispatched a couple of hundred people, some of them armed, to mostly Black and Latinx polling places where some voters were harassed in a close election won by the GOP. Some 39 years later, Team Trump is hoping that grim history can repeat.

Judicial intervention: Tuesday wiped away any doubt about the primary reason why Trump and the GOP-led Senate run by Mitch McConnell have been racing to install Amy Coney Barrett on the U.S. Supreme Court ahead of the November 3 election. When asked by debate moderator Wallace about Barrett and the other eight justices settling a dispute election, Trump responded: Yeah, I think were getting them to look at the ballots, differently.

The president is counting on Republican-dominated state legislatures, like the one in Harrisburg, or GOP secretaries of state, or his army that includes not just the 50,000 volunteers but a battalion of lawyers to gin up cases before the federal judiciary. Its been packed with more than 200 new mostly white, mostly male Republican judges rammed through by McConnell, and it funnels into a Supreme Court with six conservatives, including, soon, three Trump appointees. This process, which puts the banana in banana republic, is at the core of the Trump scheme.

Ill tell you what it means, Trump said near the end of Tuesdays exhausting exercise. It means you have a fraudulent election. The president, as usual, was projecting. Although there will always be glitches, theres nothing that was fundamentally flawed about the 2020 election  including mail-in voting, which five states run by both Democrats and Republicans have done successfully years  until Americas wannabe strongman started putting his short fingers on the scale. The actual fraudulent part is what Trump and his goons plan to do to intimidate U.S. citizens at the polls and to stop thousands of legitimate mail ballots from getting counted.

Theres a silver lining, however, in this dark cloud that hovers over American democracy. When Trump revealed his scheme under the hot TV lights, the message wasnt just received by Proud Boys and by Putins social-media meddlers in St. Petersburg, but also by the American people who solidly support removing him from the White House.

That gives us a month to react  to develop plans for voting that will be free from intimidation by goon squads and that make sure our ballots are counted, and to hopefully thwart legislative schemes like the one in Harrisburg, or ridiculous GOP lawsuits. As Ive said repeatedly this election season, Trump needs to be taken both literally and seriously, but with the confidence that we hold the power to stop his fraudulent election.

 READ MORE: SIGN UP: The Will Bunch Newsletter
The political battle over Santos proposal to develop its Narrabri gasfield has gone on for almost a decade and despite a long-awaited decision by the NSW Independent Planning Commission this week the battle looks likely to continue for some time.

Many were looking to the IPC to settle the question of whether the jobs and tax revenue generated by the project were enough to compensate for the damage the project would cause to the environment, including its projected impact on global warming.

In fact, while the IPC on Wednesday approved the project it has come with so many conditions that it remains far from certain that it will stack up technically and economically.

NSW has tried to pursue a middle path to the development of coal seam gas. While Victoria has effectively banned it and Queensland granted rapid approvals, the NSW Coalition government kept gasfields away from residential and sensitive agricultural areas but allows it elsewhere with rigorous conditions.

Over the past decade gas projects on the North Coast and near Gloucester have been abandoned leaving Narrabri, on which Santos says it has spent $1.5 billion, as the last serious candidate.
Representative image

The local administration in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh on October 1 sealed the districts borders and imposed Section 144 to help maintain law and order. Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure will remain in force in Hathras district till October 31, District Magistrate PK Lakshkar said.

The decision comes amid the district gaining national attention after a 19-year-old Dalit woman who was raped and tortured by four men there two weeks ago, died at a Delhi hospital on September 29.

Also read | Hathras gangrape case timeline: What has happened so far

Incidentally, imposing Section 144  which prohibits assembly of four or more persons  and sealing of the districts borders comes ahead of a planned visit to visit the victim's village by senior Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.

Various social and political organisations have targeted the Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath-led state government over the "deteriorating" law and order situation.

However, citing an official, NDTV reported that the ban on gatherings had been in place since September 1 and was extended till October 31. Additionally, media was barred from entering the woman's village. The report cites a senior official as claiming that this was because several police personnel had shown symptoms associated with COVID-19.

The womans body was cremated before dawn on September 30 in Hathras. The victims family has accused the police of not allowing them to take her body home prior to the cremation.

The woman died at the Safdarjung hospital in Delhi on September 29. She had been shifted to Delhi from Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh on September 28 after her condition showed no signs of improvement. The four accused have already been arrested.

The womans death led to sharp reactions from various sections of the society, including the opposition.
OSLO, Norway, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Photocure ASA (OSE:PHO) today announces the commencement of the sales, marketing and distribution of Hexvix in the European markets formerly operated by Ipsen Pharma SAS (Ipsen). The successful transition and launch of European Hexvix operations creates a robust platform for accelerated growth and expansion for Photocure.

"We are proud to announce the launch of our European Hexvix operations which will transform Photocure into a strong global business within the diagnosis and treatment of bladder cancer. We have built a successful commercial organization for Hexvix/Cysview in the U.S. and the Nordics. Based on our unique understanding of bladder cancer and its care, our full commercial capabilities to grow and expand these new markets will be applied. As bladder cancer is the most expensive cancer to treat, there is considerable and growing interest in the bladder cancer market in Europe. We see significant opportunities ahead for Photocure," says Dan Schneider, President and CEO.

Photocure announced in June 2020 that the company had finalized an agreement with Ipsen to regain the commercial rights for Hexvix in selected European and other countries. The rights have been transferred to Photocure with the official launch of the commercial operations beginning today, 1 October 2020.

"We are pleased with the successful Ipsen transition and with the launch of our European commercial operations. The entire European team has worked tirelessly over recent months to ensure we hit the ground running. We have ramped-up and strengthened our commercial organization and established an efficient distribution and third-party logistics network. By applying our experience from the commercial success in the Nordic and the U.S. markets to the European region, Photocure is positioned for accelerated growth and profitability," says Susanne Strauss, Vice President and General Manager of Europe in Photocure.

Photocure has paid Ipsen EUR 15 million for regaining the Hexvix rights and Ipsen will also receive earn-out payments in the range of 10 -15% of sales (years 1-7 post-transfer) and 7.5% of sales (years 8-10) in the former Ipsen markets.

Confirms key financial targets for the acquired rights

Photocure announced preliminary financial targets for the transaction 27 April 2020 . The targets have today been confirmed.

. The targets have today been confirmed. 2019 royalty received by Photocure was NOK 61 million excluding IFRS adjustments

excluding IFRS adjustments Following the transfer of the rights for the Ipsen territories to Photocure, the revenue recognized by Photocure is expected to increase around 3x to 2021 compared to 2019, driven by Photocure being granted the in-market sale in the territories and growth in market penetration

Beyond FY 2021, Photocure is targeting approximately 20-30% annual revenue growth in the former Ipsen territories

NOK 30 -35 million in integration and ramp-up costs in 2020. Around NOK 90 million in increased SG&A costs in Europe from FY 2021 and beyond

European operations will be EBIDTA accretive from 2021 and beyond

Market conditions are affected by the COVID-19 virus outbreak. See OSE notification of 7 April 2020 for an in-depth analysis of the risk and effects of the COVID-19 situation, in addition to the trading update 27 April 2020 and the second quarter 2020 presentation and board of directors' report of 17 August 2020.

EBITDA and other alternative performance measures (APMs) are defined and reconciled to the IFRS financial statements as a part of the APM section of the second quarter 2020 financial report on pages 22-23.

Notes to editors

About Hexvix/Cysview (hexaminolevulinate HCl)

Hexvix/Cysview is a drug that is selectively taken up by tumor cells in the bladder making them glow bright pink during Blue Light Cystoscopy (BLCTM). BLC with Hexvix /Cysview improves the detection of tumors and leads to more complete resection, fewer residual tumors and better management decisions. Cysview is the tradename in the U.S. and Canada, Hexvix is the tradename in all other markets.

About Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer ranks as the sixth most common cancer worldwide with 1 650 000 prevalent cases (5-year prevalence rate), 550 000 new cases and almost 200 000 deaths annually in 2018.1

Approx. 75% of all bladder cancer cases occur in men.1 It has a high recurrence rate with an average of 61% in year one and 78% over five years.2 Bladder cancer has the highest lifetime treatment costs per patient of all cancers.3

Bladder cancer is a costly, potentially progressive disease for which patients have to undergo multiple cystoscopies due to the high risk of recurrence. There is an urgent need to improve both the diagnosis and the management of bladder cancer for the benefit of patients and healthcare systems alike.

Bladder cancer is classified into two types, non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) and muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC), depending on the depth of invasion in the bladder wall. NMIBC remains in the inner layer of cells lining the bladder. These cancers are the most common (75%) of all BC cases and include the subtypes Ta, carcinoma in situ (CIS) and T1 lesions. In MIBC the cancer has grown into deeper layers of the bladder wall. These cancers, including subtypes T2, T3 and T4, are more likely to spread and are harder to treat.4

1Globocan. Incidence/mortality by population. Available at: http://globocan.iarc.fr

2Babjuk M, et al. Eur Urol. 2019; 76(5): 639-657

3Sievert KD et al. World J Urol 2009;27:295-300

4Bladder Cancer. American Cancer Society. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/bladder-cancer.html

About Photocure

Photocure: The Bladder Cancer Company delivers transformative solutions to improve the lives of bladder cancer patients. Our unique technology, making cancer cells glow bright pink, has led to better health outcomes for patients worldwide. Photocure is headquartered in Oslo, Norway and listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange (OSE: PHO). For more information, please visit us at www.photocure.com, www.hexvix.com, www.cysview.com

CONTACT:

Photocure

Dan Schneider

President and CEO

Tel: +1-609 759-6515

Email: [email protected]



Erik Dahl

CFO

Tel: +47 45055000

Email: [email protected]

Media and IR enquiries:

Geir Bjrlo

Corporate Communications (Norway)

Tel: +47 91540000

Email: [email protected]

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/photocure/r/photocure-launches-european-hexvix-operations,c3208258

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At least 5,000 pets have been found dead in cardboard boxes at a shipping depot in Central China in a scene compared to living hell, local animal rescue activists said.

Only about 200 animals were rescued from the site at Henan Provinces Luohe city, with thousands of dogs, cats, rabbits and guinea pigs likely dying from suffocation, dehydration and starvation, according to one activist who spoke to CBS News. The rescued animals were adopted or sent to veterinary clinics for treatment.

The animals allegedly came from a breeding farm in East China's Anhui Province, the state-run Global Times newspaper reported, and would have been en-route to buyers across the country.

As shipping live animals in ordinary packaging is illegal in China, the activist from animal rescue group Utopia told CBS they may have become stranded at the depot after the logistics company involved refused to sign off on a delivery that violated the law.

However, these shipping regulations were introduced thirty years ago with no corresponding penalising measures in place, a legal expert told the Global Times, making it difficult to punish those responsible.

"The station was cluttered with express boxes with thousands of animals that had already died, and the entire place reeks of rotting bodies," Sister Hua, who founded the charity Utopia, told the broadcaster. It was like a living hell.

The caged animals had been left in cardboard boxes with breathing holes without water or food for about a week before they were discovered by authorities. An investigation is now underway.

The shipping company, Yunda, said it was had not been made aware of the incident, but that they allowed live animals to be transported in boxes with air holes, the Chinese newspaper reported.

Soon after the grim rescue operation, Utopia learned of another similar incident in the nearby village of Dameng. Only half of the roughly 2,000 animals were saved, Ms Hua said.

The activist said both incidents highlighted the issues of animal welfare as well as a risk to public health, and urged Chinese authorities to enforce the rules around transporting animals.

"Given the Covid-19 pandemic we are facing, it's so terrifying to have those live animals transported that way, and even ending up dead," she said.

Go for adoption instead of illegal buying and shipping of animals, the activist added.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-09-28 05:20:05|Editor: huaxia

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MONTEVIDEO, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- Uruguay's President Luis Lacalle Pou on Sunday urged voters to heed social distancing measures to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) as they head to the polls in regional and local elections.

"This is a different election for the whole country. It is very important that we all take care of ourselves," Lacalle told reporters after casting his vote in the southern city of Canelones, capital of the department of the same name.

Lacalle also criticized those who attended Friday's "March for Diversity" in the capital Montevideo, since many did not use face masks or keep two meters apart, as health authorities recommend.

"You can lead a fairly normal life by complying with the protocols and taking care of all of us," the president said.

Some 2.6 million of Uruguay's 3.4 million people are eligible to vote in these elections, which were originally scheduled for May 10 but postponed due to the pandemic.

The use of face masks is mandatory for polling station officials, and recommended for voters. Enditem
More than 9,000 asylum seekers are living in 91 hotels across the country after a record year for Channel crossings, MPs have been told.

Home Office officials told the Public Accounts Committee 9,500 people have been put up in almost a hundred hotels in around 50 local authority areas.

And the department's permanent secretary Matthew Rycroft told the committee: 'There are more people coming into the aylum system at the moment than are leaving it and that is because of Covid'.

Second permanent secretary Shona Dunn couldn't tell MPs how many people are waiting to be deported and how many have been granted asylum but are yet to be given permanent accommodation.

Home Office officials told the Public Accounts Committee 9,500 people have been put up in almost a hundred hotels in around 50 local authority areas. Pictured, Royal House in Hull city centre is housing migrants

The Novotel Hotel near Newcastle Airport is housing migrants. Second permanent secretary Shona Dunn couldn't tell MPs how many people are waiting to be deported and how many have been granted asylum but are yet to be given permanent accommodation

Hotels in Hull, Birmingham, Nottingham, Southport and Glasgow were used amid a shortage of permanent accommodation for newcomers to live while their asylum claims were assessed.

It comes as reports suggested the Home Secretary Priti Patel was looking at 'offshoring' refugees arriving in Britain in places including Ascension island and St Helena in the south Atlantic.

On Tuesday around 40 people are understood to have been detained as they took advantage of a change in weather conditions to arrive in the UK.

During the Home Office meeting committee member Shabana Mahmood asked for more precise figures to be provided because there was 'no other way of measuring any of your performance'. She added: 'The number is going up.

Hotels in Hull, Birmingham, Nottingham, Southport and Glasgow were used amid a shortage of permanent accommodation for newcomers to live while their asylum claims were assessed. Pictured, The Royal Hotel in Hull city centre

'Your ministers, in response to parliamentarians, suggest a number of reasons why that is happening.

'But without some numbers, which I'm sure you can obtain, we can't actually measure your progress.'

The department was criticised for failing to inform councils and MPs of plans to house asylum seekers in hotels in their area.

Ms Dunn said the Home Office was dealing with a 'very fast-moving situation' and said it had done its 'utmost to engage with local authorities'.

But Ms Mahmood, the Labour MP for Birmingham, Ladywood, said people found out in the press, on Twitter or even by accident.

Ms Dunn said there was 'certainly no intention at all, ever, to leave anyone feeling they have been treated with contempt' but admitted: 'There have absolutely been some issues.'

Some 122 asylum seekers tested positive for coronavirus while being housed in hotels during the pandemic, the committee heard.

It comes as reports suggested the Home Secretary Priti Patel (pictured on September 22) was looking at 'offshoring' refugees arriving in Britain in places including Ascension island and St Helena in the south Atlantic

MPs were told there were two outbreaks - one in Birmingham and another in Wakefield.

A total of 6,776 asylum seekers had to self-isolate during the course of the crisis and there are now 750 doing so, with 348 shielding, Ms Dunn said.

One boat with 13 people - 11 men and two teenage boys - landed on Shakespeare's Beach at Dover in Kent with a second understood to have landed further down the coast at Kingsdown near Deal on Tuesday.

The latest migrant crossing comes as it was revealed that asylum seekers who are being housed in an army barracks in Kent are being crammed into rooms of 20 people.

Migrants are currently being housed in Napier Barracks in Folkestone, Kent, which has been repurposed for them

Refugees who are staying at the Napier Barracks in Folkestone, Kent, have revealed that 20 people are being forced to share two toilets and two showers between them, amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Ms Mahmood asked why the Home Office moved asylum seekers who had tested positive for coronavirus out of Birmingham to a hotel in Hammersmith, west London, in August without the council being informed, 'thereby spreading the virus across the country'.

2020 Channel migrant numbers hit 7,000 At least 7,000 migrants have managed to cross to the UK in small boats this year. Wednesday marked the 100th separate day when people have arrived in small boats in 2020, according to analysis by the PA news agency. Migrants crammed into unsafe dinghies have reached the UK from France on more than one in every three days, data shows. Immigration officials say screening centres are sometimes being 'overwhelmed' by the high numbers while staff remain conscious of the threat of Covid-19. Meanwhile, charities continue to call on the Home Office to provide safe and legal routes for asylum seekers to put an end to the perilous Channel crossings. In 2019, Home Secretary Priti Patel vowed to make such journeys an 'infrequent phenomenon', but UK law enforcement now believe the issue will be here for a while. A handful of people were seen arriving in Dover on Wednesday as migrants attempt the crossing before the weather worsens in autumn and winter. Wednesday marked the 100th separate day of 2020 where migrants have successfully crossed the Dover Strait to the UK in small boats, PA analysis shows. This means that people are successfully making the dangerous crossing more than once every three days. The number of migrants arriving each day is heavily weather-dependent, with fewer than 10 arrivals on some days and hundreds making it to Dover on others. In September alone, nearly 2,000 migrants reached the UK, more than the figure for the entirety of 2019. Immigration staff say the 'sheer volume' of migrant crossings in 2020 is 'unprecedented' and has presented significant challenges. Natalie Elphicke, MP for Dover and Deal, said: 'More needs to be done to bring an end to illegal trafficking and illegal migration. All options must be on the table to close down the route itself. 'The French must stop boats leaving in the first place, boats should be returned to France instead of bringing them into Britain, and we should return people who come in through these illegal routes, no ifs or buts.' Advertisement

Branding this a 'pretty significant failure of practice', she asked for a full written explanation of what happened.

Ms Dunn replied: 'My understanding was that it was a very last-minute change and as soon as engagement could happen, it did.'

Another MP informed the committee on Wednesday that this had also happened in Coventry, chairman Meg Hillier said.

Ms Dunn was also unable to say how many of the hotels had been visited by 'protesters, activists or far-right organisations' during the pandemic, adding: 'I am aware of a number but we are not tracking the number and there will be some hotels that received multiple visits.'

Home Office chiefs last month apologised for an 'error' after Nigel Farage was filmed visiting a hotel housing migrants in Priti Patel's constituency.

The former UKIP MEP shared a video on Twitter in which he is seen visiting the 54-a-night Rivenhall Hotel in Witham, Essex.

While sharing a shortened version of his seven-minute long video, he also accused the MP of 'taking Britons for a ride'.

Bosses at the Home Office say they have launched a 'full review' into their operation of finding temporary accommodation for asylum seekers who arrive in the UK without a home to go to.

Ms Mahmood said she was 'astounded' to hear the Home Office is not keeping a running total of incidents given the safety implications and that the police were now investigating.

'We do have a line of sight on this,' Ms Dunn insisted.

She was also asked to clarify in writing how many deportations had taken place during the pandemic and the figure for the months prior to the coronavirus outbreak, after confusion over statistics being provided during the hearing.

Ms Dunn initially suggested, among citing other figures, that the number of charter flights for deportations was 231 since January 2019 but later said this only related to removals of migrants who had crossed the Channel in small boats.

Meanwhile, leaks now being investigated suggested the Home Office considered putting wave machines and a floating 'wall' in the Channel to stop migrant crossings.

They may also have planned to house them on retired ferries.

Although the France-facing wave machine idea has been dismissed the department has consulted maritime industries on the plausibility of a floating barrage between England and the continent, the Financial Times reported.

But Ms Patel was left furious at slew of negative briefings about the plans to crack down on abuses, on the day the number of migrants entering the UK in 2020 reached 7,000.

There are also claims that Boris Johnson's top aides, including Dominic Cummings, are the targets of the briefing rather than Ms Patel, as Downing Street has been pushing heavily for the 'offshoring' policy.

Allies of the Home Secretary said she did not believe the negative briefing was coming from her department and sighted their guns on other parts of Government.

'People are having a bit of a free for all,' one said. 'There is a lot of briefing from the Cabinet Office. They have a task force (on offshoring) there.

Home Office chiefs have also apologised for an 'error' after Nigel Farage was filmed visiting a hotel housing migrants in Priti Patel's constituency

They pointed out that much of the material was 'damaging to No10'. 'There are people who have spent the last three weeks going after the PM and now are going after his advisers.'

Meanwhile Scottish leader Nicola Sturgeon lashed out at suggestions that some could be housed on Islands around Britain, including off the coast of Scotland.

Home Office Permanent Secretary Matthew Rycroft told MPs today that the Cabinet Office has launched an investigation into the leaks.

Asked at the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) whether he thought the investigation will take account of the timing of the leaks and whether they were politically motivated, he said: 'I'm sure they will look at all relevant factors.'

The Rivehall Hotel is a hotel in Witham, Essex, which has a three out of five star rating on both Google and TripAdvisor

The wave machine option plan was among 'blue sky' ideas looked at by officials to discourage migrants from trying to cross in small boats - although it was quickly rejected.

The government has been working on ways to overhaul the creaking asylum system and crack down on abuse.

Sources complained that already-dismissed proposals such as creating a processing site on Ascension Island, more than 4,000 miles from the UK, were being leaked by officials who 'don't like the whole concept'.

Ironically, a snap YouGov poll has found the public backed the idea of by a margin of 40 per cent to 35 per cent. However, that proposal has already been ditched.

An ally of the Home Secretary said 'offshoring' was being attacked by people who did not like it.

A further 13 migrants arrived in Dover by dinghy Tuesday after crossing the Channel at night

'It is a perfectly logical idea, but someone who doesn't like the whole concept said "you can only do it if it happens 4,000 miles away" and leaked that,' they said.

The Isle of Wight proposal is understood to have 'problems', but other islands around the UK - including off the coast of Scotland - and old ferries are being seriously looked at.

'This is still very early days,' one source said.

Ms Sturgeon waded into the row today, saying: 'They can rest assured that any proposal to treat human beings like cattle in a holding pen will be met with the strongest possible opposition from me.'

Official documents marked 'sensitive' and produced earlier this month, summarise advice from officials at the Foreign Office, which was asked by No10 to 'offer advice on possible options for negotiating an offshore asylum processing facility similar to the Australian model in Papua New Guinea and Nauru'.

Up to forty migrants arriving by dinghy are brought into harbour by HMS vigilant Tuesday

Border Force officials and police escorted the migrants away after picking them up from the shores in the early hours of Tuesday morning

The Home Office and asylum accommodation providers Mears, Serco and Clearsprings currently use hotels to house those in need due to the halting of all removals of applicants from properties amid the Covid-19 outbreak.

A source said: 'Usually there would be enough accommodation available as there are always people moved on after being given asylum or refused. There is not at the moment. The answer has been to source hotel accommodation, usually in three-star hotels.'

The Home Office said: 'Since March the number of people within the asylum system has risen.

'This is because we temporarily ceased ending asylum support for those whose claims have been either granted or refused. This is to ensure people were not made homeless during lockdown.'

Some 4,000 rooms were orginally booked to house the asylum seekers amid a spate of crossings in small boats during the summer weather in August.
Photo: The Canadian Press Bloc Quebecois Leader Yves-Francois Blanchet holds a press conference on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick

OTTAWA - After being rushed through the House of Commons in a single day, a bill authorizing new benefits for workers impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic has hit a speed bump in the Senate.

Sen. Marc Gold, the government's representative in the Senate, was denied leave Wednesday to have the upper house deal with Bill C-4 on Thursday, after having an opportunity to question Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland and Employment Minister Carla Qualtrough about it.

Senators may yet hear from the two ministers on Thursday but they will not begin debating the legislation until Friday, barring further holdups.

Sen. Scott Tannas, leader of the 13-member Canadian Senators Group, said he was among a number of senators who denied the unanimous consent Gold needed to proceed with the bill Thursday.

And he said they did so to protest the fact that Gold has still not proposed a way for the Senate to resume its full functions during the pandemic, with all senators able to participate in debates and votes, either in person or virtually, as is being done in the House of Commons.

Since mid-March, the upper house has met only periodically for single-day sittings to pass pandemic-related emergency aid bills. For those sittings, only a small number of senators have attended, leaving the rest with no role to play.

The situation has been particularly hard on senators from Atlantic provinces, which have imposed travel restrictions on their residents during the pandemic.

"We've got to be the last chamber in all of the Westminster system that is still operating with no hybrid (format) or not even a glimmer of it," Tannas said in interview.

He said senators are also frustrated that the government is pressuring them to approve billions worth of aid legislation in a matter of hours and then go home and do nothing until the next emergency bill comes along. In the case of Bill C-4, he questioned the urgency, noting that applications for one of the proposed new benefits aren't scheduled to open until Monday, and not until Oct. 11 for the other two.

"We just thought today was a good day to provoke some conversation and see if we could get to the bottom of it and get a resolution, having satisfied ourselves that this would not put anybody in jeopardy in terms of the extension of benefits," Tannas said, adding it's still possible to pass the bill on Friday or to hold a special weekend sitting to get it done.

Tannas said Gold has a motion for hybrid Senate sittings "ready to go" but has not introduced it because he wants to arrive at a consensus with all groups in the 105-seat upper house. That's been stymied by the 21 Conservative senators, whom Tannas said continue to want "everybody to be in the chamber and, if you can't be in the chamber, then you should take a sick day."

A motion for hybrid sittings can be passed without the Conservatives and Tannas said no one can figure out why Gold hasn't tried to proceed without them.

"I don't know why. He knows full well that 80 per cent of us are ready to vote on it today."

Sen. Yuen Pau Woo, leader of the largest caucus group in the chamber, the Independent Senators Group, said his members are equally frustrated and mystified about why Gold has not introduced a motion on hybrid sittings.

"This issue of hybrid sittings has been discussed for many months," Woo said in interview, adding that he supports Tannas' efforts to force the issue.

"Many of us were expecting that there would be a motion this week ... It surprises many of us that we haven't seen such a motion being tabled."

Nevertheless, Woo stressed that ISG senators are committed to passing Bill C-4 this week.

In a written statement, Gold said that he "fully supports the implementation of a hybrid approach as soon as the Senates internal administration reaches a state of operational readiness."

He said "much progress" has been made to make hybrid sittings possible this fall but declined further comment since discussions among Senate leaders are "ongoing."

Opposition MPs have expressed similar frustration about the short time they've been given to deal with emergency aid legislation.

Conservatives and Bloc Quebecois MPs voted Tuesday against the government's bid to fast-track Bill C-4 through the Commons. With the support of the NDP, the government was nevertheless able to speed up passage of the bill, which was eventually approved unanimously in the wee hours of Wednesday morning.

Conservative and Bloc MPs took shots Wednesday at the NDP as they explained why they supported the bill after vigorously opposing the manner in which it was sped through the Commons.

"This is a minority government, not a coalition government," Conservative House leader Gerard Deltell said. "We have to keep that in mind and I hope that the NDP will continue to do their job. They are there as an opposition party and they have to do opposition work in the House of Commons."

Deltell said Conservatives ultimately supported the bill because, "in the big picture, we are talking about Canadian workers."

"They need some support. Canadian business, they need some support. So this is why we approved the bill at the end of the process."

Bloc Quebecois Leader Yves-Francois Blanchet echoed that position, saying the principles of the legislation "are pretty good."

Yet both he and Deltell continued to complain about the fast-tracking, with Blanchet saying the Liberals' decision to rush the aid package was a blow to democracy, robbing MPs of a chance to analyze and possibly improve the bill.

"We were not given time to proceed with the analysis and the improvements that this law might have received because the government decided for some particular reasons or purpose that  it was important enough for the government to impose the 'shut-up' procedure,'" Blanchet said.

NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh shot back that New Democrats supported the bill only after forcing the government to make changes that will help millions more Canadians. And he mocked the other two opposition parties for complaining that the NDP "fought to get help to people too quickly."

"We fought and we won for Canadians," Singh said.

"The Conservatives and the Bloc have done nothing. Throughout this pandemic, there's not a single win they can point to that they've helped out Canadians. I think that's a pretty bad record."

All opposition parties have blamed Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for creating the need for the speedy approval of the bill by proroguing Parliament for a month, during which time it could not deal with anything.

Bill C-4 replaces the Canada Emergency Response Benefit, which came to an end last weekend after helping almost nine million Canadians weather the pandemic. The CERB is being replaced with a more flexible and generous employment insurance regime and, for those who still don't qualify for EI, a new Canada Recovery Benefit.

The bill also creates a new sick-leave benefit and another new caregiver benefit for those forced to take time off work to care for a dependent due to the pandemic.

At the behest of the NDP, the government has increased the proposed new benefits to $500 per week from the originally proposed $400, aiming to see that no one receives less than they were getting under the CERB.

It has also expanded the eligibility criteria for the sick-leave benefit so that it applies not just to individuals who contract COVID-19 but also to those with underlying health conditions or other illnesses, including the flu or the common cold, that makes them more susceptible to COVID-19.
HALIFAX - Nova Scotias second Indigenous-run, off-season lobster fishery officially began operating in southern Cape Breton Thursday, coinciding with Treaty Day celebrations.

Fishers from the Potlotek First Nation headed out on St. Peters Bay to trap lobsters outside the commercial fishing season, which runs from late April to late June.

The launch of the provinces newest Indigenous-run fishery coincided with annual Treaty Day celebrations, which mark the signing of peace-and-friendship treaties between the Mikmaq and the Crown in the 1700s.

Nearly 300 people attended the ceremony to launch the boats loaded with lobster traps out onto the water. Liberal MP Jaime Battiste, a member of the Potlotek First Nation, was in attendance to see the boats depart the wharf.

The provinces other Indigenous, off-season fishery, in St. Marys Bay, is run by the Sipeknekatik First Nation. It has faced resistance from non-Indigenous fishers who are angry that lobsters are being trapped outside the commercial fishing season.

Mikmaq fishers, however, cite a 1999 Supreme Court decision affirming their Treaty right to fish for a moderate livelihood. That Treaty right, they say, allows them to harvest lobster and other seafood year-round.

Sipeknekatik First Nation said in a statement Wednesday they are in talks with the federal Fisheries Department to settle the dispute with non-Indigenous harvesters.

We had a very positive discussion (and) they recognized this is a nation-to-nation matter, Sipeknekatik First Nation Chief Michael Sack said.

Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil said Thursday that all sides need to keep communicating in order to settle the conflict.

This is not going away and its been 21 years in the making, McNeil said. I think the federal department of fisheries needs to come together with the Mikmaq as well as the commercial fisherman across this province to find a path forward.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct.1, 2020.

- - -

This story was produced with the financial assistance of the Facebook and Canadian Press News Fellowship.

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Osagie Ize-Iyamu, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the September 19 governorship election in Edo State, has disclosed there are possibilities he may challenge the outcome of the election.

Mr Ize-Iyamu said in a statement on Thursday that his party might go to court as long as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) refused to discontinue the various cases it instituted during the pre-election period.

Mr Ize-Iyamu, who dropped the hint in his Independence Day message to the people of the state, said while he appreciated the appeals from various quarters for him to let bygone be bygone, the possibility of a litigation over the election was not ruled out.

Mr Ize-Iyamu said, At this juncture, therefore, I must rejoice with our people, the entire Edo people. I must congratulate them for our unity. I must toast them for our oneness, even if we all differ by political affiliations. Finally, I must thank them for their maturity and peaceful disposition, as we all went to the polls on September 19.

We have all played our parts as lawful citizens and unrepentant democrats. Even as we speak, our people should know that PDP and their agents and privies have instituted 13 law suits against my running mate and I. None of them have they discontinued after the election. So, if the PDP dont pass up their rights under the law, why should we, in APC, do so?

Collating evidence

Mr Ize-Iyamu said: we are busy collating our facts. Only after, can we speak and speak authoritatively, in the best tradition of rule of law, fairness to all and due process. We will brief you all in good time and that time is near.

In the course of our methodical approach, not a few deem to have preempted our course of action; and pleaded that we do not proceed to the courts to challenge the election results. While that cannot be dismissed as an entirely bad plea, what I can say is that whatever action we subsequently take would be rooted in due process and the rule of law. We will exercise every right available to us under the law, given the electoral facts at our disposal, he vowed.

He commended President Muhammadu Buhari for providing a level playing field, for all candidates, irrespective of party affiliations.

At least, after the Edo election, democracy wasnt declared to be in intensive care unit as our PDP friends would have shrieked, had they lost the election! That is democratic spirit the president displayed during and after September 19. I pray and hope that our friends would remember  indeed, inculcate  that spirit, and wean themselves from their win-at-all-costs mentality.

The pastor turned politician paid glowing tribute to members of the APC.

But then, the question is after September 19, what next? We owe you an explanation of the way forward. Indeed, not a few have been bombarding us with this question. Well, we have kept quiet so far, not because we are bad losers, as some unfairly presume. Its rather because, no matter the situation, we are staunch soldiers of the rule of law and due process, he added.

He also said the party is at liberty to pursue any legal option we deem fit, so long as the peace of Edo, our beloved homeland, is not threatened.
Rob Kardashian was feeling the love for his three-year-old daughter Dream, sharing a new snap of her on social media.

The 33-year-old reality star and businessman took to Twitter on Wednesday, sharing a new snap of a smiling Dream, who turns four in November.

'I Love You!!' he shared in the tweet, adding two smiling face with three hearts emojis and two blue heart emojis.

Dream post: Rob Kardashian was feeling the love for his three-year-old daughter Dream, shaing a new sanp of her on social media

His Twitter post also comes just five days after a throwback Instagram snap of him holding Dream, for National Daughter's Day.

His mother Kris Jenner also recently shared a throwback snap of Rob as a youngster, in an adorable red cowboy outfit.

'You are perfect and I love you madly... Happy National Son Day!!!!! #love @robkardashianofficial #nationalsonday,' Jenner said.

Throwback: His mother Kris Jenner also recently shared a throwback snap of Rob as a youngster, in an adorable red cowboy outfit

Kardashian also recently took to Instagram to share a truly worthy cause along with his friend Eric Esrailian.

'In the fog of the pandemic & global crises, #Armenians in #Artsakh have been the victims of unprovoked attacks by #Azerbaijan,' he began.

'We appeal to the international community to continue to condemn these attacks. From the highest levels of leadership, we know Armenia & Artsakh want peace,' he added.

Worthy cause: Kardashian also recently took to Instagram to share a truly worthy cause along with his friend Eric Esrailian

He also added any information to the contrary that others may have heard is 'disingenuous and false,' asking fans to go to Anca.org.

He also asked for support for their #ArstakhStrong We Are Our Borders/All For Artsakh campaign at Armeniafund.org/donate as well.

All this comes as Kardashian continues his legal battle with his ex-girlfriend Blac Chyna.

Legal battle: All this comes as Kardashian continues his legal battle with his ex-girlfriend Blac Chyna

Kardashian and Blac Chyna split in February 2017, with the rapper suing both her ex and Kylie Jenner that year.

Blac Chyna (real name Angela Renee White) filed a motion to dismiss an assault and battery lawsuit filed by Kardashian.

The motion was denied by a judge, but there is no indication on how the lawsuit may proceed from here.
When Teneshia Hudspeth and Stan Stanart decided earlier this year to run for county clerk, both expected the job description would include one of the most thankless roles in Texas government: administering Harris County elections.

Under Stanart, a former clerk, and his successor Diane Trautman, Harris County residents became accustomed to oft-delayed voting results, leading dismayed politicos to flood social media with demands  sometimes tongue-in-cheek  for the clerks to be fired. In July, Harris County Commissioners Court stepped in and voted to create an election administrators office, which will take over the clerks election management role after the November election.

By the time of the court vote, Trautman had resigned due to health concerns, and Hudspeth and Stanart had announced their candidacies to succeed her. The following month, precinct chairs from the Harris County Democratic and Republican parties selected Hudspeth, a Democrat and the chief deputy to Clerk Chris Hollins, and Stanart, a Republican and software engineer who Trautman unseated in 2018, as their nominees.

The new county clerk, despite losing the elections management role, will retain the offices existing administrative functions, such as issuing marriage licenses and maintaining birth and death certificates, property records and certain court records.

Harris County Clerk race Teneshia Hudspeth, 39, Democrat, Chief Deputy Harris County Clerk vs. Stan Stanart, 64, Republican, software and electronics engineer and former Harris County Clerk See More Collapse

Of course, the sexier piece of the county clerk's office for so many years has been elections, Hudspeth said. But I'm committed to really bringing to the forefront all the other important things.

Stanart, 64, said his experience running the office for eight years would allow him to seamlessly transition back into his old position, even if the job looks a bit different. He said he wants to continue introducing new technology to modernize the office, building on his creation of an iPad-based electronic poll book to check voters in at polling locations instead of less efficient paper books.

"I think the voters do understand that I brought a lot of technology to the office when I was there. I've got a lot of election judges from both parties that like what I did, Stanart said. I bring can-do, how-to-do-it type solutions to technology for the county clerk's office, whether that's running elections or not.

Hudspeth, who oversees the offices day-to-day operations, said such modernization already is underway. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the clerks office has allowed public visits only by appointment, limiting the efficiency of certain record filings that must be done in person, she said.

We're figuring out that there are things that really need to be brought up to the 2020 year in terms of virtual capability for filing, because we don't know when the county is going to open for individuals to fully be able to come in and get their public service, said Hudspeth, 39.

As clerk, Hudspeth said she would focus on improving customer service and would launch an education campaign called Why is your County Clerk Important? to educate residents on the functions performed by the office. She noted that during her 15 years at the clerks office, she has focused largely on community outreach, while having some kind of direct contact with every single operation of the office.

Asked what distinguishes her from Stanart, her boss for eight years, Hudspeth said she has worked at the clerks office longer, arguing she is more in tune with the current employees.

I know the employees, I have relationships with the people that work so very hard in that office, and I know what they want to see, Hudspeth said. And I'll continue to build upon that.

Stanart said his experience as clerk is more valuable than Hudspeths longer tenure. He argued that she held jobs primarily in voter outreach until being put in an elevated position to prepare her, I guess, to run for this office. He also contended he would be well-positioned to get the office back on track after it has undergone a tumultuous period in his absence.

It seems like they need help, because theyve made major faux pas in elections ever since I left, Stanart said. They had people voting until 1:30 a.m. the next day.

Stanart has finished in line with the Republican straight-ticket vote in each of his three elections, winning the clerk seat in 2010 with 53 percent of the vote when Republicans won 54 percent of the countywide straight-ticket vote. In 2014, Stanart won with 54 percent, matching the Republican straight ticket. When Stanart lost his seat in 2018, he received 43 percent, running about a point below the Republican straight ticket.

This year, straight ticket voting has been eliminated statewide, adding a layer of uncertainty to what otherwise would be an all-but-impossible uphill climb for Stanart, Houston political analyst Nancy Sims said.

We don't really have any ability to predict voting behavior without straight-ticket voting, Sims said. I do think both candidates who are deeper in the ballot are going to face more challenges because people are less likely to know them. And I think none of the county races are a shoo-in with the lack of straight-ticket voting.

jasper.scherer@chron.com
North Carolina police have released video footage of a father convulsing in an interview room after swallowing a bag of cocaine, three days before he died in hospital.

On January 23 Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police officers arrested Harold Easter, 41, on drug charges after he was found in possession of marijuana and cocaine.

He 'ingested and swallowed cocaine' during the traffic stop and was later left unattended in an interview room for 20 minutes where he suffered periodic seizures.

At some point while in the interview room, Easter cried out for help and reportedly told cops: 'I'm going to die.'

When he was finally found in medical distress he was rushed to a hospital and died three days later.

Footage from the interview room was released on Thursday and shows the horrifying moments that Easter begged for help before leaning over a table and collapsing onto the floor in convulsions.

In the video, Harold Easter is seen being placed in an interview room at 12.19pm, where he was checked on periodically

A short time later, the clip shows him leaning over a table before falling to the ground and suffering periodic seizures around 1.06pm. He was discovered by a sergeant at 1.13pm and taken to a hospital where he died three days later

A few months after Easter's deaths, Attorney Alex Heroy told NBC that the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department said that officers believed Easter swallowed cocaine and did not get him medical attention.

'It is obvious that he needs immediate medical attention,' Heroy said. 'For a period of minutes, he was calling out for help, acknowledging the peril he is in and just repeating, "I'm going to die, I'm going to die, I'm going to die,"' Heroy said.

'They just did nothing about it and they did nothing about it for a long, long time and then when they did try to give help, it was way too late.'

Earlier this week, four North Carolina police officers and a sergeant resigned after they were all cited for termination for Easter's in-custody death.

Last week the five CMPD employees involved - Sgt Nicolas Vincent, Officer Brentley Vinson, Officer Michael Benfield, Officer Michael Joseph and Officer Shon Sheffield - were 'cited for termination' following an internal investigation and by Tuesday had resigned.

'The five sworn employees who were cited for termination following the internal investigation into the death of Harold Easter have resigned,' a CMPD public information officer confirmed to WBTV.

On September 18 CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings announced the termination recommendations saying the officers had 'intimate knowledge' that Easter had ingested cocaine.

On January 23 Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police officers arrested Harold Easter (left and right), 41, on drug charges after he was found in possession of marijuana and cocaine

'Had our officers followed our policy, Mr Easter may be alive today,' Jennings said.

'And had our officers had more concern for the sanctity of Mr Easter's life, we may not have had such a tragic outcome with this.'

The officers had been on administrative leave with pay in the midst of the investigation.

In the video, Easter is seen being placed in an interview room at 12.19pm, where he was checked on periodically.

A short time later, the clip shows him leaning over a table before falling to the ground and suffering periodic seizures around 1.06pm. He was discovered by the sergeant at 1.13pm and taken to a hospital where he died three days later.

Despite being cited for termination, Mecklenburg County District Attorney Spencer B. Merriweather III determined last week that no charges would be filed against the five CMPD employees involved in Easter's death.

A 35-page report released last week said the state would have to prove the officers knew or should have known that Easter ingested cocaine and that their failure to get medical attention resulted in criminal negligence.

They'd also have to prove that the failure to obtain medical attention was the cause of his death.

'There were three medical experts we consulted. None of those three could say with a degree of medical certainty that he wouldn't have died,' Merriweather said.

'It's because of the amount of cocaine and cocaine tablets in his system,' he added.

Earlier this week, four North Carolina police officers and a sergeant resigned after they were all cited for termination for Easter's in-custody death. Easter is pictured with his family members

Attorney Heroy slammed the officers for 'trying to escape accountability' in resigning before an official board hearing.

'The officers remarked several times that he ate cocaineFor a period of minutes he was calling out for help and just repeating, 'I'm gonna die, I'm gonna die,' family Heroy said to WCNC.

The District Attorney's Office condemned the officers in the case saying they could have taken different actions that could have prevented Easter's death.

'The video image of Mr Easter slowly beginning to perish, unattended, for over 15 minutes has left an indelible mark upon each of us,' Merriweather said.

'We also acknowledge that a person certainly might reasonablyand justifiablyinfer that different actions by the officers could have saved Mr Easter's life.

'That inference alone is insufficient to sustain a criminal prosecution, but it is wholly appropriate to deem what occurred on January 23, 2020 to be an abject failure of operating procedure and general standards of custodial care,' he added.

Easter's death sparked outrage in the state and led to changes within the CMPD including a new policy where officers must continuously observe any person while they're in custody.

Last week Easter's family held a press conference after the District Attorney's decision saying they're still mourning the loss of their loved one.

'I miss him everyday. Every second, every minute, every hour of everyday. I'm still upset. It doesn't bring him back but at the same time, if he has been treated like a person with respect, we wouldn't be here today. He'd still be with us,' Harold's sister, Andrell Mackey said.
The following article is a written adaptation of an episode of Thrilling Tales of Modern Capitalism, Slates new podcast about companies in the news and how they got there.

Kelly Berger lives in Tucson, Arizona. Tucson is home to Saguaro National Park, the University of Arizona, and, each February, the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show. Its a big deal in the world of precious stones. And its a big deal in Tucson. The gem show is such a big deal, in fact, that there arent enough hotel rooms in Tucson to accommodate everyone who comes to town for it, which makes the gem show a yearly windfall for people like Berger, who make money by renting out property on Airbnb. People can pay six months of their mortgage in two weeks, she says. Itd be like hosting the Super Bowl. Thats what the rates are.

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Berger has been an Airbnb host for a few years now. Before that, she was a traditional kind of landlord, leasing to long-term tenants. But she found that she could make more money from folks who are only in town for a few days or a week. At the beginning of 2020, Berger had three Airbnb properties in Tucson, all of them single-unit dwellings. And business was good enough that she decided to add a fourth houseBerger closed at the beginning of February. We wanted to close and get it furnished right before the gem show, Berger says. We just put everything into that.

A month later, America recorded what was then thought to be its first COVID-19 death, outside of Seattle. Then there was another death, and another, and another, and another. All at once it seemed like the virus was everywhere, including Tucson.

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As the outbreak became a pandemic, global travel ground to a halt. The prospect of traveling to stay in someone elses home, where youd have to touch things with your hands, all of a sudden became a clear and present health hazard. And by March 13, when President Donald Trump declared the COVID-19 crisis a full-fledged national emergency, Kelly Bergers Airbnb business had completely collapsed.

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My phone just wouldnt stop bing-ing, she says. Justcancellation, cancellation, cancellation, cancellation, cancellation, cancellation, cancellation. Four houses fully booked for monthsevery single one of them canceled. At one point I just sat on the floor in my kitchen and cried. I banked everything on this.

As Airbnb has grown to dominate the world of short-term vacation rentals, people have become more familiar with the platform and thus more demanding about what they expect from their rentals. For many travelers, its no longer enough to stay for cheap in someones actual apartment. They want a house thats a blank slate with hotel amenities and no trace that anyone has ever actually lived there. Thats not something a person with a spare room can offer. These days, if you stick around as an Airbnb host, chances are you do so because youve chosen to make it your business. And if youve chosen to make short-term vacation rentals your business, you cant not be on Airbnb.

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If you rely on one platform for the vast majority of opportunities you get, then youre not actually your own boss at all.

It isnt that there arent other platforms that do the same thing. Other apps and companies like Vrbo have tried to contend with Airbnb over the yearsand Vrbo is actually more than a decade older than Airbnb. But Airbnb remains the most popular platform for both hosts and guests.

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The promise of Airbnb for travelers was that it would give them unique lodging experiences for less than they might pay at a hotel. The promise for hosts was that they could be their own boss by renting out their existing assets on this platform whenever they felt like it. But if you rely on one platform for the vast majority of opportunities you get, then youre not actually your own boss at all. In every meaningful respect, youre tied to that platform. And in times of crisis, in worst-case scenarios, it can be tough to rely on a platform that does not rely on you.

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At the beginning of 2020, Airbnb was valued at roughly $31 billion and was readying itself for an initial public offering. But unlike some tech startups whose businesses exist almost exclusively in the cloud, Airbnb is tethered to the real world. And this spring, when the real world collapsed in a fit of coughing, Airbnb found itself in serious trouble.

It was like I was a captain of a ship, and it was a nice ship and it was really sunny, and all of a sudden a torpedo hit the side of the ship, and we lost the vast majority of our business, Airbnb co-founder Brian Chesky said back in June. It felt like it took me 12 years for my partners and I to build this business, and we lost most of it in four or five weeks.

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Hed just seen his companys valuation drop by $13 billion. But in that same interview, Chesky said that the company was already starting to see signs of recovery and that the IPO might still be on track. Airbnbs hosts, though, dealing with lost income, unpaid bills, and mounting debt, were finding it a little bit harder to see the silver lining.

Many Airbnb hosts felt betrayed by a critical decision the platform made about its long-standing cancellation policy. Millions of travelers were canceling their trips. The ones who were staying in hotels for the most part could get their bookings refunded. The ones whod booked on Airbnb found themselves subject to their hosts individual policies. With certain exceptions for extenuating circumstances, Airbnb had always let its hosts set their own terms of cancellation. Some hosts allowed travelers to cancel with a full refund up until 24 hours before check-in. Others were more strict. But now Airbnb found itself in a real predicament. If travelers couldnt get their money back, theyd be furious with the platformand they also might feel compelled to travel when it was unsafe to do so.

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More than ever before, Airbnb had to choose between the hosts who list on its platform and the guests who book there. It chose its guests, rolling the pandemic into its extenuating circumstances policy, and allowing them to cancel for full refunds. I was furious at the decision, says Berger. I felt like I was worthless.

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By making it easier for people to change or cancel their travel plans as a deadly virus began to spread all over the globe, needless deaths may well have been avoided. The decision prevented a PR disaster for the company, and it cost Airbnb a lot of money. But it may have cost the hosts more. What are rules, if rules are nothing? Why even have a cancellation policy? Berger remarked.

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She went online to commiserate with other Airbnb hosts. The hosts were talking about filing a lawsuit. They considered starting their own platform. They complained about feeling so disposable. But, well, they were disposable. When a platform gets big enough, no single user is essential. Airbnb chose to look out for its guests rather than its hosts because the hosts have nowhere else to go.

This is a corporation, Berger says. At the end of the day, youre a minion to Airbnb.

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.
Mahrajganj (UP): A joint team of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) and police have arrested a 31-year-old man from the Indo-Nepal border here after recovering 25.1 kg charas worth Rs 25.5 crore from his possession, an official said on Thursday. The accused - Sachit Madeshiya - hails from Mahrajganj district, they said. SHO Sonauli, Ashutosh Singh told reporters that the accused was on his way to Delhi from Nepal and was arrested from Shyam Kot in Sonauli area on Wednesday night with 25.1 kg charas worth Rs 25.5 crore in the international market. He said the police is presently interrogating the accused, who they suspect is a carrier of the contraband. Another member of the gang managed to escape and a hunt is on to nab him, Singh said.

Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor
W hether it's a highly hyped debut, a collection of never-before-heard singles or a Christmas album  yes, in October  the next month has it all.

Here, we've picked out 10 albums you need to know about in the coming days and weeks.

As always, there are plenty here we didn't have space to mention: keep an eye out for new releases from the likes of John Frusciante, Matt Berninger, Melanie C, Laraaji, Autechre, Katie Melua, Songhoy Blues and Sam Smith.

Blackpink  The Album (October 2)

Blackpink are one of the biggest forces in K-Pop  they sold out their debut UK show at Wembley Arena last year. Unfettered by the pandemic, they wrote and recorded this entire album in self-isolation, with features from Cardi B and Selena Gomez.

Dolly Parton  A Holly Dolly Christmas (October 2)

What else could come and save this wretched year other than a Dolly Parton Christmas album? Arriving a full 84 days before December 25, this festive treat is Partons first yuletide release in 30 years. Mr Christmas himself, Michael Buble, is among the features, with Miley Cyrus, Willie Nelson and others getting involved too.

Mariah Carey  The Rarities (October 2)

One for the Mariah superfans, this new release will be made up of unreleased demos, B-sides and live tracks taken from across the last 30 years. There is some new material too, with a fresh track featuring Ms Lauryn Hill one to look out for.

Shamir  Shamir (October 2)

Shamir is back with a second album of 2020, and the first few singles from the self-titled release are intriguing. Other Side is dark country stomp, while Running is hazy indie-pop. Its set to be an intriguing listen, for sure.

Working Mens Club  Working Mens Club (October 2)

One of the UKs most hyped new bands, Yorkshire outfit Working Mens Club have been forging a reputation for post-punk tinged, eminently danceable anthems and now they arrive with their long-awaited debut album.

Future Islands  As Long As You Are (October 9)

Synthy favourites Future Islands are back with their sixth studio album. Early singles suggest itll be a subtle update on their signature sound: wistful soundscapes topped by frontman Samuel T. Herrings deeply dredged vocals.

Wizkid  Made in Lagos (October 15)

Its been a fair while since we last had a full-length project from Wizkid  Sounds from the Other Side dropped back in 2017  and hes been teasing Made in Lagos years. Now, its finally here, so expect a sleek fusion of Afrobeat, dub, dancehall and more.

Beabadoobee  Fake It Flowers (October 16)

Another massively hyped debut album  for all the right reasons  is Fake It Flowers from the 20-year-old Beabadoobee. Shes recruited a legion of ardent fans with her 90s-flavoured, lo-fi guitar music, heavy with hooks and relatable lyrics.

Adrianne Lenker  instrumentals + songs (October 23)

Adrianne Lenker released two of the best albums of 2019 with her band Big Thief, and now shes back as a solo artist trying to repeat the trick with this duo of releases. Both of them were written after the pandemic cut short a Big Thief tour. Expect intimate, stripped back acoustic delights.

Bruce Springsteen  Letter To You (October 23)

The Boss is back, and hes brought the E Street Band with him. Its the first time theyve collaborated since 2014, creating Springsteens 20th studio in the process. Dont expect any great reinventions here  from the sound of the first two singles, its classic Bruce.
POMPANO BEACH, Fla., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- American fashion eyewear company Hip Optical has donated 21,467 pairs of glasses to people in need since its inception. As it rapidly gains ground in the optical industry, it's committed to helping more people see their future.

Since the inception of Hip Optical, 21,467 pairs of glasses are donated in cooperation with the non-profit organization RestoringVision.

What prompted Hip Optical to take action is the challenge called "Vision Poverty" that humanity is now facing - nearly one billion people globally live without access to glasses. Though "Vision Poverty" rarely attracts intense media attention, its impact on a person's whole life cannot be overlooked. To be precise, blurred vision can deprive an individual of over 35% productivity and consequently 20% monthly income. Compared to many other socio-economic scenarios that give rise to poverty, "Vision Poverty" is entirely preventable and eradicable.

To effectively help people living in poor conditions aggravated by troubled eyesight, Hip Optical reached out to join forces with RestoringVision, the largest global non-profit provider of reading glasses to impoverished people. This philanthropic alliance has been working nonstop to make sure that with every Hip Optical order, one pair of glasses is donated to a person who cannot afford to buy it.

Eric Scarfo, one of the co-founders of Hip Optical, said, "For us, fashion should make you feel comfortable and the world a little better at the same time. We see great beauty in being fair and kind, instead of being exclusive. That's why we're incredibly grateful for having the opportunity to craft luxury quality eyeglasses for the masses while helping the cause we believe in. We're excited to see the market embracing us back with enthusiasm."

Hip Optical blends the world of fashion and prescription eyewear with luxury quality at prices that don't break the bank. All eyeglasses are US$95 including made-in-America prescription lenses. Every order comes with 24/7 customer support plus free USA shipping. For more information, please visit www.hipoptical.com.

About Hip Optical:

Hip Optical is an American fashion eyewear company that has been revolutionizing the optical industry with innovative product iteration and impeccable service. All Hip Optical eyeglasses are US$95 including prescription lenses. All lenses are made in the USA.

Media Contact: Sophie Li

Email: [email protected]

Telephone Number: 1 954 683 8048

Address: 750 SW 12TH AVENUE

City: POMPANO

State: FLORIDA

Country: United States

Website: hipoptical.com

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Disruptive Eyewear Brand Solving World Vision Poverty

Since the inception of Hip Optical, 21,467 pairs of glasses are donated in cooperation with the non-profit organization RestoringVision.

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TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / Pinetree Capital Ltd. (TSX:PNP) ("Pinetree") today announced the results of the election of directors at its annual general meeting held earlier today (the "Meeting"). At the Meeting, all of the nominees listed in Pinetree's management information circular dated August 17, 2020 were elected as directors of Pinetree. Each director was elected by a majority of the shareholders present in person or by proxy at the Meeting. The results of the shares voted by proxy at the Meeting in respect of the election of each director are set out below:

Nominee Number and Percentage of Shares Voted For Number and Percentage of Shares Withheld Ian P. Howat 5,058,638 (98.08%) 98.873 (1.91%) Craig Miller 5,061,976 (98.15%) 95,535 (1.85%) Howard Riback 5,063,016 (98.17%) 94,495 (1.83%) Peter Tolnai 5,014,228 (97.22%) 143,283 (2.78%) Damien Leonard 5,062,715 (98.16%) 94,796 (1.84%)

The complete voting results of all matters voted on at the Meeting is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com .

Following the shareholders' meeting the Board appointed Damien Leonard to serve as Chairman and reorganized its committees. The Audit Committee will be comprised of Mr. Riback (Chair), Mr. Miller, Mr. Howat and Mr. Tolnai. The Compensation, Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee will be chaired by Mr. Tolnai, with Mr. Miller, Mr. Howat and Mr. Riback serving as members. As of this date, all of Pinetree's directors, excluding Mr. Leonard, are deemed independent and Mr. Miller will continue to serve as Lead Independent Director.

About Pinetree Capital Ltd.

Pinetree is a value-oriented investment and merchant banking company focused on the technology sector. Pinetree's common shares are listed on the TSX under the symbol "PNP".

For further information:

John Bouffard

Chief Financial Officer

416-941-9600 x 200

jbouffard@pinetreecapital.com

www.pinetreecapital.com

SOURCE: Pinetree Capital Ltd.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/608802/Pinetree-Capital-Announces-Election-of-Directors
Next week's New Yorker Festival just got a little less star-studded.

On Wednesday, Senator Elizabeth Warren and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez pulled out of their planned appearances at the festival, in an act of solidarity with unionised magazine staffers who are locked in a labour dispute with management.

At the heart of the dispute is the "just cause" clause, a labour protection that requires an employer to build a case for why an employee should be fired or disciplined. Union members are fighting to have the provision included in their contracts, but haven't been able to reach an agreement with management.

"The NewsGuild and The New Yorker Union are fighting for basic dignity on the job and we stand with them," Ms Ocasio-Cortez and Ms Warren said in a joint statement provided to CNN. "We will not cross the picket line and attend the festival unless The New Yorker leadership agrees to the union's demands  they should do so immediately."

Former US Attorney General Eric Holder, who was scheduled to speak at the festival next week, also canceled his appearance on Wednesday. He explained in a tweet, "As a strong union supporter, I can't in good conscience cross a picket line to take part in the festival. I hope the parties are able to quickly negotiate a fair agreement."

Ms Warren and Ms Ocasio-Cortez were originally slated to appear on October 5 as keynote speakers for the annual festival, which is being held virtually for the first time amid the coronavirus pandemic. But members of the New Yorker Union have a virtual picket line planned that night, and they sent a letter to Ms Warren and Ms Ocasio-Cortez asking them to reconsider their appearances.

The union's letter to the politicians cited their historic support for unions and workers. It read, in part: "The leadership that you both display on issues like labour rights and corporate responsibility brings hope at a time when it's hard to come by. Because of your strong support for unions and workers, we thought it important to let you know that The New Yorker is in a state of labour unrest."

Ms Ocasio-Cortez pledged her support in a tweet on Wednesday, writing, "Love the @NewYorker, but @ewarren and I don't cross picket lines."

A spokesperson for The New Yorker said the magazine was eager to reach an agreement with the union. In a statement, they said: "Like many other media outlets, The New Yorker strongly believes that its editorial standards should not be determined by arbitrators outside of The New Yorker, and we look forward to our continued discussions regarding just cause in the context of bargaining. We remain eager to reach a fair agreement as quickly as possible."

Other New Yorker Festival events have not been effected at this time. The event, which runs from October 5 to 11, is also scheduled to include appearances from Dr Anthony Fauci, Chris Rock, Fiona Apple, Margaret Atwood, Malcolm Gladwell, Steve Martin and Jerry Seinfeld.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A lawsuit soon to be filed against the city Department of Education (DOE) is seeking to put an end to remote learning and bring students back to the classroom full-time.

On Thursday, Councilman Joseph Borelli (R-South Shore), joined by dozens of Staten Island families outside Tottenville High School, announced plans to file a class action lawsuit against the DOE, claiming that the department is depriving New York City schoolchildren of their state constitutional right to a proper education.

Today, we are here to announce that we are forming up against the New York City Department of Education for failing to meet the New York State constitutionally-mandated public school system," Borelli said. Thats right. The New York State Constitution guarantees public education in common schools."

We are demanding the DOE reopen and give parents an actual public school option that meets the states constitutional requirement to have public schools, or our lawsuit will continue and the courts will have to force the DOE to reopen them, he added.

Borelli argued that the current remote and blended learning models offered by the DOE do not meet the New York State constitutional requirement for public education in common schools due to the uniquely complicated circumstances under which students are being taught.

Im excited to see how the DOE tries to defend remote learning as meeting that constitutional right, Borelli said. I would be shocked to hear people on the other side from us try to advocate for remote learning meeting those requirements.

Those New York City public school students participating in the blended learning model go to school two to three days a week and learn remotely on the other days. Parents also have the choice of students learning remotely full-time.

THIS IS OUR CHILDREN

Attorneys Mark Fonte, Lou Gelormino and James Mermigis will represent the plaintiffs in the class action lawsuit, which is expected to be filed within the next two weeks.

Heres the bottom line, its Oct. 1 and our kids are not in school. Our children are not in school. Our children. This isnt a restaurant. This isnt a business. This is our children, and we will do anything we can to fight for our children, Gelormino said.

The city returned students to school buildings in phases, with the academic year kicking off for some in-person and all remote learners on Sept. 21.

Students in 3-K, pre-K, and District 75 were the first to begin reporting for in-person learning on Sept. 21, followed by K-5 and K-8 students on Tuesday. On Thursday, middle and high school students began their return to campus.

I promise you, as a father, that we will do everything we can to end remote learning and get our children back in the classroom where they belong, Fonte added.

Parents looking to join the class action lawsuit have been asked to visit the Parents Against Remote Learning website at PARENYC.com.

CITY DEFENDS REOPENING PLAN

Representatives from the DOE called the pending lawsuit a distraction, and said they are currently focused on providing high-quality education while prioritizing health and safety.

This is a distraction from real news: today, we are officially open for in-person learning in every grade, and students will continue receiving high-quality instruction five days a week in a way that keeps our communities safe and helps prevent the spread of the virus. As we continue to navigate a global pandemic, our reopening plan prioritizes the health and safety of our students and staff, and is in line with guidance issued by federal, state, and local health experts," said DOE spokeswoman Danielle Filson.

ITS NOT WORKING'

Erin Ulitto, a first-grade mother and one of the plaintiffs in the lawsuit, spoke about the struggles her special needs son has experienced with remote learning -- struggles that have at times left both of them frustrated and in tears.

Remote learning does not work for my son. Hes 6 years old, in first grade and has special needs. Hes in District 31, and the remote learning is not an option for him. Hes at a crucial time in his life where he needs his services. He needs in-person therapy, Ulitto said.

Its not working. I open the computer, he closes the computer. He runs away, he cries, he screams. It just ends with both of us crying at the end of the day. It just doesnt work, she added.

IN-PERSON, YET VIRTUAL

Jayce Nicholls, president of the Tottenville High School PTA, spoke about the unique challenges her school is facing, with limited staffing forcing the school to provide virtual instruction even on days when blended learners are physically in the school building.

Tottenville High School students right now who are in-person are sitting in front of a computer with no teacher teaching them. They are learning through a computer while their teacher is in another room," said Nicholls.

All students at Tottenville High School in Huguenot and Susan E. Wagner High School in Sea View are currently receiving instruction virtually  which means there is not traditional live in-person instruction  but students in the blended learning model are still on campus on their designated days.

My daughter is in pre-calculus. She cannot learn pre-calculus from a computer; she needs a teacher," Nicholls said.

Students at the two high schools are being provided educational support by qualified educators in-person, in addition to receiving virtual instruction from teachers, the DOE said. That means that students at Tottenville and Wagner arrive to school on their blended learning days and sit in a classroom to learn remotely with their device.

Kate Reilly, a junior at New Dorp High School and daughter of Assemblyman Michael Reilly (R-South Shore), spoke from a student perspective about her desire to return to the classroom on a regular basis.

This is one of the most important years of my school career. Its ridiculous that we cant be in school full time. I speak on behalf of every single student Ive know and we miss school. We need school. We miss socializing. We miss our teachers. We miss learning. Were not getting anything from virtual school, Reilly said.
STAMFORD  Gov. Ned Lamont expects November to be a crucial period for Connecticut  and not just because of the election.

The penultimate month of the year will also be a barometer of the states ability to continue containing COVID-19 while advancing with its economic re-opening, the second-year governor said Wednesday during a keynote speech at the Stamford Chamber of Commerces 33rd annual meeting.

Despite upticks in hospitalizations and infections in the past few weeks, Connecticuts levels of coronavirus spread remain among the lowest in the country.

Id like to think by the end of November were going to know if were turning the corner on this pandemic, Lamont said in a video-conference appearance to a group of about 20 assembled at the Residence Inn by Marriott in downtown Stamford.

Nearly seven months after the state recorded its first coronavirus case, about 98 percent of Connecticuts economy has re-opened, according to Lamont, who was speaking from Hartford.

Probably about 88 percent of the states pre-pandemic gross domestic product has returned, while unemployment is somewhere between 12 percent and 13 percent, he said.

On Oct. 8, the state will enter the third phase of its re-opening. Capacities for indoor and outdoor venues will increase, although some establishments such as bars will remain closed.

Lamont also cited a number of programs that have supported residents and businesses in the past few months. Separately on Wednesday, he announced the extension of the states moratorium on evictions to the end of the year and a doubling in funding, to $40 million, for the Temporary Rental Housing Assistance Program.

Since an initial surge in cases in March and April, Connecticuts relatively low coronavirus incidence in the past few months has underpinned its re-opening. In the past week, its positive rate among tested cases has run at 1.15 percent compared with a high of nearly 36 percent between April 19 and April 25, according to Johns Hopkins Universitys Coronavirus Resource Center.

The state is now doing about 100,000 virus tests per week, according to Lamont. He expects the state to receive next week its first shipment of five-minute tests from Abbott Laboratories.

Thats a big deal for a couple of reasons: A, its a lot less intrusive and a lot easier to administer, Lamont said. (And) you wont have to send it off to a lab to get a result in a couple of days. Youll get a result in 90 seconds.  Those are the types of changes that make November a transformative month.

Lamont anticipates that a coronavirus vaccine will not really be available before the end of 2020 and probably not widely available until the second quarter of 2021.

Weve got to do a job of convincing people that when its available well only release it when its safe and effective, Lamont said. As you probably know, theres an awful lot of vaccine hesitancy.

In his own speech, fellow Democrat and Stamford Mayor David Martin praised Lamonts handling of the states response to the pandemic. Martin said that local governments such as Stamford have cooperated well with state agencies in recent months, contributing to the containment of the virus in the city. Stamford is recording around four to six cases per day, according to Martin.

Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes

We still have coronavirus. I have budget challenges that are ongoing, negotiations with unions. There are all sorts of difficulties, Martin told the in-person attendees, who sat at widely spaced tables in a meeting room. But I tell you were doing better than I thought wed be doing.  Im feeling like we can get there.

Among the Chamber of Commerces award recipients, Stamford Health, which includes Stamford Hospital, was named the company of the year.

At the peak of the spring surge, Stamford Health was caring for about 150 patients hospitalized with coronavirus, according to Dr. Rohit Bhalla, the systems chief quality and clinical officer, who accepted the award. In the past few weeks, it has seen typically fewer than five COVID-19 hospitalizations at the same time.

This demonstrates, in part, how prudent public health measures and collaboration can benefit Stamford and its surrounding towns, Bhalla said. I look forward to the day when we are speaking about the pandemic in the past tense. Until then, we are proud to be a part of the business community in getting through this together.

Brad Lupinacci, a vice president of commercial banking at Stamford-based First County Bank, was named member of the year. The bank has distributed more than 1,200 loans through the federal Paycheck Protection Program that total about $125 million, according to Lupinacci. He said those loans have helped to save about 12,000 jobs.

Its been a tough time for many businesses during the pandemic, Lupinacci said. At First County Bank, weve been very busy over the last six months and doing our best to support the businesses in Stamford and surrounding areas.  Its going to take all of us to get through this.

pschott@stamfordadvocate.com; twitter: @paulschott
ONTARIO -- The coronavirus continues to spread through the Snake River Correctional Institution, with the number of inmates infected almost doubling in the past 30 days.

The prison remains a major source of coronavirus cases in Malheur County and has one of the highest infection rates among Oregons 14 prisons.

As of Sept. 24, the Oregon Department of Corrections reported a total of 394 inmate cases since the first one was detected in the Ontario prison in July. Four inmates have died. The department also reported a total of 139 employees at the prison have tested positive.

We dont have a specific reason to link the cases from this last month, said Amber Campbell, Snake River spokesperson.

Among Oregon prisons, Snake Rivers case rate is high.

Six prisons have reported no cases, and the average inmate infection rate across all prisons is 4%. Snake Rivers infection rate among its 2,700 inmates is 14%, second only to Eastern Oregon Correctional Institution in Pendleton, where 18% of inmates have been infected.

The outbreak adds to Malheur Countys designation as the county with the highest infection rate in the state. Although the prison cases wont be counted in any decision to open schools, the outbreak counts in the countys total caseload. As of Friday, Sept. 25, the county reported 1,613 cases dating back to March.

An Aug. 6 assessment by the Department of Corrections and obtained by the Malheur Enterprise through a public records request found that the majority of employees and inmates at Snake River wore face coverings, and managers at the prison appeared to take coronavirus seriously.

The agency sent a special inspection team to the prison last month as part of its effort to track coronavirus in the state prison system.

They found during the August tour that two employees didnt have a face covering available and one pulled down a face covering to talk to an inmate. One employees face covering wasnt over his nose, and two of the three employees in a prison tower werent social distancing or wearing face coverings.

Seven employees assigned to transporting inmates werent wearing masks while eating together in an area too small for social distancing, the auditors found.

The auditors found that employees coming through a back entrance at the minimum facility werent screened. Since then, the prison has directed employees to get a complete screening before reporting to their work stations.

The assessment also noted the difficulty of preventing coronavirus cases in a 24-hour correctional facility whose employees live in counties which have such high case rates.

Even if these controls are implemented as well as can be reasonably expected, positive cases are still likely to occur as long as COVID-19 is prevalent in the outside community, said the assessment.

While the assessment shows that the majority of employees and inmates wear masks, the masks provided to inmates are not up to CDCs coronavirus prevention standards.

The masks provided to the inmates at Snake River are single-layer polyester and cotton masks, according to Zachary Erdman, DOC operations and policy manager.

The Centers for Disease Controls guidance directs people to wear masks with two or more layers to stop the spread of coronavirus. An April 3 newsletter from Santiam Correctional Institution in Salem said it is important to note that these masks will NOT take the place of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for those with, or in close contact with, COVID-19.

Agency officials said it would not have been appropriate to provide PPE to inmates.

Due to continuing nationwide shortage of PPE, it would not be irresponsible (sic) for DOC to provide items like N95 masks and face shields to the general adult in custody population, when CDC requirements have shown that a washable, breathable fabric mask is safe and effective for the majority of people, wrote Erdman.

Inmates have to wear masks only when within 6 feet of another person, and can be sent away from their assignment and have their daily wage docked if they neglect to wear them at a work site.

Two May declarations from inmates in a lawsuit against the DOC said that inmates werent wearing masks.

They tell us we should be wearing them, but they only enforce it if we go to medical, said former SRCI inmate Brandon Borba.

I dont really wear my mask. Most of us are of the same opinion that if COVID-19 comes to the facility we are going to get it, said SRCI inmate Patrick Kirk.

DOC employees only have to wear masks if they are within 6 feet of someone, unless they are working in food, health services or the Oregon Corrections Enterprises, according to a July 13 email from Heidi Steward, DOC deputy director, to DOC staff.

It is becoming difficult to stand our ground on our current directive, as not all of us are following it. If we do not pull together and wear our face coverings when we cant maintain six feet of social distancing, we may be mandated to wear masks at all times, the email reads.

Washington state, in comparison, began requiring all staff to wear N95 masks at all times in May. Washington state has seen 454 coronavirus cases and two deaths across its 17,845 inmates, and 167 cases among employees.

Declarations from inmates submitted as part of the lawsuit against the state May 12 said that prison employees werent wearing masks either.

COs (correctional officers) arent wearing masks and are regularly right up in our faces. They dont care about social distancing at all, said SRCI inmate Aaron Delicino.

The staff sometimes wear masks, but not all the time, said Kirk.

The staff come and go between facilities and none of them wear masks, said Borba.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Does It Again and Raises $1 Million in Support of HBCUs

Online Donations Help Sorority to Exceed Its Goal

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated is proud to announce that for the third consecutive year, the sorority has successfully raised $1 million in 24 hours for the benefit of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The sororitys annual HBCU Impact Day on September 21 exceeded its $1 million goal in online donations alone from local AKA chapters, private donors and corporate matching dollars from across the globe.

We did it, we did it again! Dr. Glenda Glover, AKA International President and Chief Executive Officer shared with excitement in a video message to sorority members. The online receipts alone totaled more than $1.3 million. We can now continue to provide endowments to our treasured HBCUs.

HBCU Impact Day is one part of a four-year $10 million fundraising goal set by Dr. Glover, who has challenged the women of AKA to lead the charge in helping to secure fiscal sustainability and success for accredited HBCUs around the country. The sorority was successfully able to reach the $1 million goal consecutively in 2018 and 2019, supporting the organizations HBCU for Life: A Call to Action platform, which aims to promote HBCUs by encouraging students to attend and matriculate through these institutions.

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Last year, AKA gifted $1.6 million to the first 32 of 96 HBCUs through the AKA-HBCU Endowment Fund. Each HBCU received $50,000 in unrestricted endowment funds as part of a phased approach to help schools reduce student debt through scholarships, fund industry-specific research, recruit and retain top faculty, and other critical operations especially during this global pandemic.

On Sunday, September 20, the sorority held a virtual brunch to launch the next round of 32 HBCU endowment recipients. Four more recipients were announced: Delaware State University, Lane College, St. Phillips College, and Medgar Evers College. Four additional grants will be announced on Friday, September 25, the last day of HBCU Week. The sorority will then announce 24 more recipients  six schools every Thursday for the next four weeks.

These institutions continue to make a powerful impact in our communities and throughout our country, graduating 22% of all African Americans with bachelors degrees, nearly 80% of all African-American judges and 50% of all black lawyers, said Dr. Glover, who is also the president of Tennessee State University and an HBCU graduate. Its gratifying to know that funds raised will establish endowments, providing sustainability to our historically black colleges and universities.

Dr. Glover thanks everyone who contributed to the success of the 2020 HBCU Impact Day and notes that the $1.3 million raised online does not include checks in the mail and other contributions. Although HBCU Impact Day has passed, individuals or organizations interested in supporting the effort can still make contributions by texting AKAHBCU to 44321, giving by mail or online at http://aka1908.com/hbcus/donate-hbcu.

For more information on the sororitys commitment to HBCUs, visit www.AKA1908.com
Our consultation program has been going on for years, Matulis said. We have people on staff who deal with that in general. Basically, any business with 250 employees or fewer can come to us for help with health and safety matters, and that has existed pre-coronavirus.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 20:48:55|Editor: huaxia

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BRUSSELS, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- The European Union (EU) launched an infringement procedure against the United Kingdom (UK) on Thursday over a contentious bill that allegedly breaches the Brexit deal reached by the two sides in January 2020.

The UK has not removed the "problematic part" of the bill, which is "by its very nature a breach of the obligation of good faith laid down in the Withdrawal Agreement," said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in a statement.

"If adopted as it is, it will be in full contradiction to the protocol of Ireland-Northern Ireland," she added.

As a first step of the infringement procedure, the commission sent a formal notice to the UK government on Thursday morning, and the latter party has one month to reply.

The British government published the draft internal market bill on Sept. 9. The bill contains contentious clauses which would override measures in the EU-UK Brexit deal, argued the commission.

Brussels had threatened to take legal action against the British government if it does not withdraw the clauses by the end of September.

Despite the requests, the bill was approved by the UK House of Commons on Tuesday. It will be brought to the House of Lords in due course. Enditem
With the measure passing the House and Senate, it only needs final approval from President Trump to be signed into law.

The Senates reauthorization has been met with praise from the insurance industry.

The Big I thanks the US Senate for passing the government funding legislation, which includes an extension of the NFIP through September 30, 2021. The House of Representatives passed the same legislation last week, and we now urge President Trump to quickly sign it into law to avoid an expiration of the NFIP, said Charles Symington, senior vice-president of external, industry and government affairs at the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (Big I).

Symington added that a lapse in the NFIP would be devastating to the over five million policyholders who depend on the program.

This one-year extension continues to give Congress additional time to build consensus on common-sense reforms to the NFIP and to consider policies to help more property owners obtain flood insurance coverage through the NFIP and the private market, the vice-president continued. The Big I looks forward to continuing to work with Congress to enact a much-needed multi-year reauthorization of a modernized NFIP.
Kravchuk urges Gryzlov not to block negotiation process in TCG and not to issue ultimatums to Ukraine

The head of the Ukrainian delegation to the Trilateral Contact Group Leonid Kravchuk urged the authorized representative of the Russian Federation Boris Gryzlov not to block the negotiation process in the TCG and not to issue ultimatums to Ukraine, the press service of the Office of the President of Ukraine reported.

"Do not block the negotiation process and focus on the issues in the solution of which the citizens of Ukraine are interested," Kravchuk urged Gryzlov at the beginning of the meeting, at which the discussion of procedural issues lasted for about four hours, which did not allow to immediately proceed to the consideration of the issues on the meeting agenda.

According to Kravchuk, "the parties should work on the implementation of decisions of the Normandy format heads of state, reached during the Paris summit, bringing the peace that people want so much."

Kravchuk, in particular, said that the Ukrainian delegation is ready for constructive work on solving issues on the agenda of the TCG.

The head of the Ukrainian delegation urged not to create "stumbling blocks", but to move forward, focusing on strengthening the ceasefire, releasing the persons held by the parties, and solving problems that ordinary people are interested in.

Addressing Gryzlov, Kravchuk said: "Do not put forward ultimatums to us. We are not in the USSR or under the Kremlin. Ukraine is an independent state that will not allow any conditions to be dictated to it."

The head of the Ukrainian delegation to the TCG also thanked the Special Representative of the OSCE Chairman-in-Office in Ukraine and the TCG Heidi Grau for the efforts that the OSCE is making to achieve peace and restore the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine.
The ZEISS IOLMaster 700 with Central Topography and the CT LUCIA  621P/PY help optimize the way cataract surgeons work.

With more than 3 million SMILE treatments worldwide, the ZEISS LVC portfolio creates well-proven alternatives to commonly used procedures, enabling surgeons to provide efficient projectable decisions and results with tools such as the ZEISS Nomogram Service.

The future product, FORUM Cloud Viewer, will help doctors review their patients' data from anywhere, anytime, and collaborate with their colleagues for a second opinion.

"ZEISS is excited to showcase why we continue to be one of the leading ophthalmology companies in the world and the only company that can support diagnosis, treatment and management across the full spectrum of care," said Euan S. Thomson, PhD, President of Ophthalmic Devices and Head of the Digital Business Unit for Carl Zeiss Meditec. "ZEISS is also investing in digital solutions to capture and integrate data across clinical workflows to help doctors understand how that data can be used to improve clinical decisions and provide better patient outcomes."

Optimizing the way cataract surgeons work

ZEISS is providing technologies and services to surgeons to enhance the cataract procedure with regards to efficiency, cost effectiveness and simplicity, while maintaining established standards and ensuring excellent patient outcomes. ZEISS has one of the largest portfolios in the industry, covering all workflow steps with high-quality products and services connected through a holistic system.

The IOLMaster 700 with Central Topography (CT) allows surgeons to gain additional information and detect visually relevant asymmetries on central corneal shape with the standard ZEISS IOLMaster 700 measurement, without needing extra measurements, extra hardware, or extra time. The new IOLMaster 700 with CT also features an update to the Barrett Suite with the True-K TK formula allowing up to 12 percent more post-myopic LASIK patients to be within 0.5D compared to the classic K calculation formula1. The update also includes ZEISS EQ Mobile cloud connectivity so doctors can access IOL calculation reports on their mobile device and transfer surgical planning data via the cloud to the operating room.

"Scaling and hues of the ZEISS IOLMaster 700 with Central Topography are optimized for easy and intuitive cornea checks," says Dr. Douglas D. Koch, MD, a co-developer of the Central Topography software feature. "I am amazed at how much information we get from Central Topography."

As an additional workflow enhancement, the CT LUCIA 621P/PY from ZEISS with unique ZEISS optic design is the new-generation aspheric monofocal c-loop IOL in the hydrophobic ZEISS portfolio. The patented aspheric optic design of the ZEISS CT LUCIA device mitigates against potential decentration issues while still providing excellent visual outcomes. It also comes in a new and improved fully preloaded injector that promotes an easy and safe cataract workflow.

"The ZEISS optic of the CT LUCIA 621 makes the lens more forgiving, or less sensitive, when it comes to decentration," said Dr. Andreas F. Borkenstein, MD, co-founder of Borkenstein & Borkenstein, Private Practice at the Clinic of Kreuzschwestern Graz, Austria.

"ZEISS is offering cataract surgeons and patients an improved surgical experience with innovative solutions such as the IOLMaster 700 with Central Topography and the CT LUCIA 621," says Dr. Ludwin Monz, President and CEO of Carl Zeiss Meditec. "We're excited to showcase the entire cataract workflow at ESCRS, demonstrating our commitment to providing customers with a better way of working, so they can provide their patients with specialized care every step of the way."

Growing the refractive surgery business with one of the most comprehensive LVC portfolios

ZEISS offers one of the most comprehensive Laser Vision Correction portfolios in the industry, including PRK, LASIK, minimal invasive lens extraction with SMILE and a treatment option for presbyopic patients with PRESBYOND. The ZEISS portfolio creates a higher vision standard for everyone while enabling surgeons to grow their business and provide broader choices and a viable solution in refractive surgery to any eligible patient.

As the first provider of refractive treatment with minimally invasive lenticule extraction, ZEISS celebrates a new milestone with more than 3 million treated eyes with SMILE, accelerating SMILE treatment market penetration  together with more than 1,100 clinics worldwide. ZEISS has also finished enrollment for its multicenter hyperopia SMILE study for CE certification and has eight sites enrolled for the MEL 90 IDE clinical trial in the U.S.

"In Romania when we say that something is "ZEISS", it means that everything works perfectly! We have a long history working with ZEISS technology and this was the foundation on which we created the PREMIUM market in my country," said Dr. Andrei Filip, MD, PhD, FEBO, cataract and refractive surgeon, and senior ophthalmologist at Ama Optimex Eye Clinic in Bucharest, Romania. "Since we added SMILE and PRESBYOND to our ZEISS portfolio our business is booming, and now we are able to find the right solution for every patient's lifestyle. This is every doctor's dream, isn't it?!"

A recent enhancement to the corneal refractive workflow is the ZEISS Nomogram Service. Nomograms can improve the predictability in Laser Vision Correction, which can lead to higher post-operative uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) and has a direct impact to patient satisfaction. The ZEISS Nomogram Service supports the refractive surgeon in generating their own personal nomogram. The service includes counselling about data requirements, help with data collection, data analysis and analysis debriefing.

Advancing disease detection, management and treatment

By combining high performance OCT and Ultra-widefield imaging solutions with smart software from ZEISS in their retina workflow, specialists can evaluate retinal conditions, visualize management pathways, enhance precision and comfort during surgery, and use integrated data insight to create a better follow-up experience for patients. For early detection and optimization of glaucoma management, doctors can identify glaucoma suspects early, aiding in diagnosing glaucoma, and analyzing trends of disease progression for better glaucoma management using standard-of-care devices throughout their workflow.

When it comes to managing data throughout the clinical workflow, FORUM eye care data management was one of the first ophthalmic data management systems on the market based on the DICOM standard and has changed the way small- and medium-sized practices, as well as hospitals and large clinic groups, approach disease management with its integrated data-driven clinical workplaces. The future product, FORUM Cloud Viewer, will be offered on a flexible subscription basis, tailored to the practice needs. It will help doctors access their patients' data easily and quickly from anywhere, as well as support doctors in delivering better patient care through secure sharing of complex cases with their colleagues.

ZEISS will showcase new solution enhancements for procedure workflows at the ZEISS Ophthalmic Virtual Experience at the ESCRS and EURETINA Spotlight on October 1, 2020.

For more information, visit www.zeiss.com/meditec/

Not all products, services or offers are approved or offered in every market and approved labeling and instructions may vary from one country to another. For country specific product information, see the appropriate country website. Product specifications are subject to change in design and scope of delivery as a result of ongoing technical development.

1Lawless, Michael; Jiang, James Y.; Hodge, Chris; Sutton, Gerard; Roberts, Timothy V.; Barrett, Graham (2020): Total keratometry in intraocular lens power calculations in eyes with previous laser refractive surgery. In: Clinical & experimental ophthalmology 48 (6), S. 749756.

Brief Profile

Carl Zeiss Meditec AG (ISIN: DE 0005313704), which is listed on the MDAX and TecDAX of the German stock exchange, is one of the world's leading medical technology companies. The Company supplies innovative technologies and application-oriented solutions designed to help doctors improve the quality of life of their patients. The Company offers complete solutions, including implants and consumables, to diagnose and treat eye diseases. The Company creates innovative visualization solutions in the field of microsurgery. With 3,232 employees (as of 30 September 2019) worldwide, the Group generated revenue of 1,459.3m in fiscal year 2018/19 (as of 30 September).



The Group's head office is located in Jena, Germany, and it has subsidiaries in Germany and abroad; more than 50 percent of its employees are based in the USA, Japan, Spain and France. The Center for Application and Research (CARIn) in Bangalore, India and the Carl Zeiss Innovations Center for Research and Development in Shanghai, China, strengthen the Company's presence in these rapidly developing economies. Around 41 percent of Carl Zeiss Meditec AG's shares are in free float. The remaining approx. 59 percent are held by Carl Zeiss AG, one of the world's leading groups in the optical and optoelectronic industries.



For further information visit: www.zeiss.com/med

SOURCE Carl Zeiss Meditec
KALAMAZOO, MI  People took to the streets and marched from the Kalamazoo County Courthouse to the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety headquarters Wednesday to speak out against racial injustice and demand change from police.

The protesters gathered in the rain Wednesday, Sept. 30, for the demonstration, which is part of ongoing protests in Kalamazoo demanding police reform. Those participating in the protest and march held signs with phrases including, Justice for Breonna Taylor," Black Lives Matter, Demand Change Now, and Defund this mess we call KDPS.

Xavier Prentice-Sao, 16, said he wanted to draw attention to how police mishandled the Aug. 15 event, when Proud Boys came to Kalamazoo and violence broke out on the street between the group and counterprotesters.

Letting them just leave after everything that happened, letting them get away with it I guess, and not questioning anybody, he said. He criticized police for arresting Black people at the event.

Related: Kalamazoo commissioners briefed on hands-off police approach before violent event

Activists say they are also looking for answers to how and why Kalamazoos Black Lives Matter protests were met by police in early June. The department and city leaders have faced criticism for a heavy-handed response during the Black Lives Matter protests, including a decision to deploy tear gas on protesters who were lying on the ground.

Quinton Bryant, 34, and others held up signs to passing traffic in front of the county courthouse before the group began marching down the street toward the public safety headquarters.

They had messages for Vernon Coakley, the incoming public safety chief who will take over the leadership role starting Thursday, Oct. 1. Coakley was promoted to the position after current Chief Karianne Thomas announced earlier this month she would be retiring.

I want to be clear that we are looking to you to make a change, Bryant said, speaking to the new chief, who was not present at Wednesdays protest. You can look at this as a fresh start.

He asked Coakley to bring community members to the table.

Come out and work with the community," Bryant said. Dont just say in a statement you support the community.

Bryant was not the only protester to mention the impending change in leadership at KDPS. One of the signs held up by protesters also spoke directly to the new chief, stating: Coakley, you could be a hero.

Karianne Thomas' final day as public safety chief is Sept. 30. Thomas announced her retirement in the wake of criticism and calls for her resignation as a result of police response to protests and demonstrations this summer.

Related: Kalamazoo police chief heard calls to resign, Proud Boys chaos last straw, activists say

After rallying outside the county courthouse for about two hours Wednesday, a group of about 40 people walked down the Kalamazoo Mall and South Burdick Street, past the lit-up marquee of the Kalamazoo State Theatre, marching to the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety headquarters on Crosstown Parkway.

Were not against police, said Tony Miller, of Grand Rapids. Were against police brutality.

Cooper Hively, of Kalamazoo, carried a Captain America shield.

I think people need to be reminded that people are the power," he said. And everything theyve been doing, theyve failed to protect us. Theyve become the weapon.

Hively said he attended multiple demonstrations held in Kalamazoo since May. He criticized how city police responded to multiple events during that time.

Theyre not here to protect us," Hively said. Theyre here to protect the government from us.

A few cars, driven by those supporting the marchers, drove slowly alongside the protesters, escorting them as they walked south toward the KDPS headquarters.

No justice, no peace, Bryant shouted into a bullhorn, leading the others in the chant.

No racist police, the group answered.

Bryant urged citizens to vote in the Nov. 3 election to make their voices heard.

Dont be discouraged by the presidents mouth," Bryant said. "Get out and vote. Its the only power we have right now, to vote. Use our voices to protest and use our right to vote.

The group continued to chant for police accountability, Black Lives Matter, and other causes while standing outside the KDPS headquarters. Kneeling outside the police building, silence fell on the group as they took a moment in honor of those killed as a result of police brutality.

Read more:

Kalamazoo police chief responds to criticism of handling of Proud Boys rally

Kalamazoo City Commission forms committee to guide police force in response to protests

Critics continue calls for resignations over Kalamazoos response to Proud Boys event

Vice mayor, activist husband use life experiences to push for systemic change

Why the Proud Boys visited Kalamazoo
Timothy Ray Brown, the man known as the Berlin Patient who was the first person to be cured of HIV, and who was widely respected in the global but close-knit AIDS community, died Tuesday at his home in Palm Springs.

Brown moved to San Francisco not long after revealing that he was the Berlin Patient, the man whose leukemia was treated with a bone marrow transplant that also eliminated his HIV infection. He stopped taking HIV medications and had shown no sign of the virus for more than 12 years.

But the leukemia returned earlier this year, according to his longtime partner. Brown died after a five-month illness. He was 54.

Those who knew him said he was a humble man who wasnt eager to embrace the strange fame that came from his experience with HIV, but who recognized that he could play an important role in drawing attention to the global battle to end AIDS.

The bone marrow transplant that cured Brown was incredibly risky and not practical for widespread application. But it provided the first evidence that a cure was possible for a disease that was devastatingly stubborn.

He changed the entire field of HIV research. He made the impossible possible. He made it possible to use the C-word: cure, said Dr. Warner Greene, an HIV scientist at the Gladstone Institutes in San Francisco. It really is difficult to overstate what he represented to the field and how transformative it was.

Brown was raised in Seattle and in 1993 he moved to Berlin, where he worked as a translator. He became infected with HIV in 1995, just as drugs to fight the virus were developed and people began to live with the disease instead of facing the imminent death sentence of AIDS.

But the drugs then, and still now, cant defeat the virus, so Brown remained HIV-positive. In 2007, he was diagnosed with leukemia, and eventually required treatment with a bone marrow transplant. His doctor thought the procedure, which involves wiping out a patients immune system and replacing it with donor stem cells, could take care of the HIV infection, too.

The premise is to use stem cells that come from donors with a rare genetic mutation that makes them naturally resistant to HIV infection. The recipients immune system therefore is replaced with HIV-resistant donor cells, effectively stopping the virus ability to spread in the body.

Since Brown, another man has been cured of HIV with a bone marrow transplant. The so-called London Patient was announced at an AIDS conference in Seattle last year.

Dr. Steven Deeks, a longtime HIV cure researcher at UCSF, met Brown shortly after hed moved to San Francisco in 2011, about a year after hed revealed that he was the Berlin Patient. Brown showed up at Deeks clinic, and he was just so humble, he wasnt running around being Mr. Cure, Deeks said.

Over the next few years, Deeks and dozens of scientists around the world asked Brown to participate in countless studies to understand how he was able to fend off the virus, and Brown was always eager to help, offering his time but also his body  blood and tissue samples, over and over again.

I said, The world is dying to know what happened. We want some of your blood, Deeks said, recalling one of their first visits. And he said, sure. And then I said, Can we take a piece of your gut? Your lymph node? Can we get a spinal tap? And he said, yes, yes, yes. He gave up big pieces of his body for research, and he was doing it for pure altruism.

He was genuinely a rock star in the HIV cure world, Deeks said.

Brown similarly volunteered his time in the laboratory of Dr. Jay Levy, a UCSF scientist who has been studying so-called elite controllers  people like Browns bone marrow donor who are able to fend off HIV infection without drugs  since the mid-1980s. Levy said Brown showed up in his lab one day and asked if he could be of use.

Timothy was adored by my research group. He was like a member of the lab, Levy said. He said Brown was sometimes troubled by people who didnt believe hed been cured  who argued that he must still carry some of the virus in him.

But, in the end, he was cured, Levy said. No one can take away from the fact that he gave great hope to the field.

Brown was a bit of a local celebrity in his time in San Francisco, Levy said. During one visit in Levys lab, Brown told him that hed been to a bar with friends, and the entire crowd had raised their glasses to toast him. Deeks recalled Brown regularly being asked to pose for photographs at AIDS meetings around the world.

In a Chronicle interview in 2011, Brown said hed been invited to attend an AIDS activist panel in San Francisco shortly after naming himself as the Berlin Patient. He was there just to listen, but an organizer who knew who he was asked if Brown would mind being introduced. Brown was applauded when he stood up, and he said he turned bright red in embarrassment.

Afterward, all these people kept coming up to me and shaking my hand, and wanting to have their picture taken with me, Brown said. People tell me I give them hope. That if this happened to me, it could maybe happen to everyone.

Gregg Cassin, a longtime HIV survivor who leads programs for other survivors through the Shanti Project in San Francisco, said Browns cure was profoundly meaningful to the community of people living with HIV and AIDS.

It turned HIV from being absolutely invincible, this bogeyman, this monster that can never be conquered. Here was one example that HIV can be conquered, that we may actually find a cure one day, Cassin said. It was helpful to have that little shining beacon.

Five years ago, Brown published a personal essay about his experience, and his hope that one day he wouldnt stand so alone with his cure. This was before the London Patient, and those who knew Brown said he was troubled to remain the only person cured.

That thinking was a large part of why he decided to reveal his name and his face to the public.

I was not ready for the publicity, Brown wrote. But I did not want to be the only person in the world cured of HIV. I wanted other HIV-positive patients to join my club. I want to dedicate my life to supporting research to search for a cure or cures for HIV!

Brown is survived by his partner, Tim Hoeffgen of Palm Springs, and his mother.

Erin Allday is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: eallday@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @erinallday
Ahmedabad, Oct 1 : Professor Siddhartha Saxena of Ahmedabad University has been honoured with the prestigious 2020 Ideas Worth Teaching Award from the Aspen Institute, Washington.

Saxena's course, 'Future of Work', is one of the nine courses selected from worldwide entries, that responded to the global crises of 2020 by innovating in form and content -- and suggest a new way forward for business, as society calls to rebuild. Saxena teaches at the Amrut Mody School of Management at Ahmedabad University.

This is the first award, ever, to an academic in Asia and the only one from India. The other awardees are from The Wharton School, The Ross School of University of Michigan, INSEAD, The Rotman School of University of Toronto, and Universities of Linz, Innsbruck, Auckland University of Technology, Arizona State and San Francisco State.

The Aspen Institute's Business & Society Program recognizes nine exceptional courses and the faculty who teach them with the 2020 Ideas Worth Teaching Award. This award honours faculty who are redefining business education -- providing learning experiences that equip managers of tomorrow with the context, skills and decision-making capabilities needed to lead in an increasingly complex business environment -- and the world.

Professor Pankaj Chandra, Vice Chancellor Ahmedabad University congratulating Professor Saxena on this award, said, "The world is facing complex challenges, whether it is climate change or it is a pandemic as of today. Traditional, narrowly focused discipline-based education is inadequate to address these challenges that face the 21st century. We need to rebuild education that brings different systems of knowledge to bear at the same time in addressing these issues.

Siddhartha's course is an important step in that direction that brings interdisciplinary perspectives and skills to address such challenges in the classroom making education real.

"With each new headline, 2020 has underscored the need for fresh thinking on issues at the intersection of business and society," said Business & Society Advisor Claire Preisser. Preisser adds: "Whether it's the Covid-19 pandemic, the economic crisis it triggered, or protests for racial justice, this year is an urgent call-to-action to reset business norms so that, in rebuilding our economy, we rebuild for better human -- and not only financial -- outcomes.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Former President John Dramani Mahama has accused President Akufo-Addo and his government of not showing seriousness in dealing with the secessionist groups in the Volta Region.

The groups have caused significant disturbances in the Volta Region since they blocked major roads to and from the Volta Region and attacked the Mepe and Ayeyime police stations.

Speaking via a Facebook live interaction at Eusbett Hotel, in Sunyani, Mr. Mahama said it's time President Akufo-Addo showed more commitment in handling the situation.

It looks like government is not serious about this issue. The President himself is not serious about it. No senior person has gone to the area since this happened. The Minister of National Security, instead of going to the area was in Kumasi with the President, commissioning a compost plant. What is his business at the commissioning when people are seriously trying to break up the country.

Touching on how government has handled the issue so far, Mahama said, They never explained to us why they decided to discontinue the case. This came after reports that people in military uniforms were seen training and they were arrested. They were brought to Accra and interrogated and put before court. All of a sudden, government decides not to prosecute them, releases them back into the system and today when they get older, the President says we are on top of it, and we should not panic. He does not want the country to panic. It is not about panicking, it is about taking the issue seriously. It is as though the government and security agencies have a very lackadaisical attitude towards this issue, he added.

We'll deal with secessionist groups  Akufo-Addo

President Nana Akufo-Addo on Thursday, October 1, 2020 publicly commented on the matter since reports of the groups' violent actions in the Volta Region began this year.

He said the government will adequately deal with secessionist groups making claims for an independent state within the country.

He said he trusts in the ability of the country's security and intelligence agencies to stop such threats and clamp down on activities of the secessionists.

Secessionist groups

Ghanaians on Friday, September 25, 2020, witnessed reports that the group had blocked some major roads leading into the Volta Region.

They mounted roadblocks on the JuapongAccra, and SogakopeAccra main roads.

The roadblocks were subsequently cleared as security agencies took control of the highways and strategic installations within the region.

Homeland Study Group Foundation wants the Volta Region and sections of the northern part of Ghana to be an autonomous country known as Western Togoland.

The group has made a number of attempts to push for the secession of the Volta Region from Ghana for the creation of a Western Togoland state.

The group even declared independence for the Western Togoland in November 2019.

34 of them were arrested and put before court.

---citinewsroom
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has apologized for the death of a South Korean government worker who was shot dead by North Korean troops after crossing a maritime border between North Korea and South Korean.

Kim Jong Un's apology

On September 18, a letter was sent to South Korea's Blue House. According to North Korea, units responded to a call that an unidentified male was found floating on an object in the sea, as reported by CNN.

The letter sent to South Korea claims about 10 rounds were fired at the man after he did not comply with a soldier's demand to identify himself, warning shots were also fired but to no avail.

North Korea claims that only a pool of blood remained on the floating object after the shots were fired. After soldiers thought that the man was dead, they burned the floating object on-site per the COVID-19 disease prevention measures of North Korea.

Also Read: Young Boy Watches Parents Getting Shot in Ambush, Helps Father Call 911 While Mother Dies on the Spot

The letter read, according to the Blue House, that Kim Jong Un asked to convey that he feels very sorry that instead of giving aid to the South Koreans who are struggling with the pandemic, the North Koreans have disappointed "President Moon and our compatriots in the South" with what happened at sea.

The letter added that North Korea has now strengthened its maritime surveillance. The country also apologized for the incident, which they acknowledged will have a negative impact on inter-Korean relations, according to BBC.

Rare side of Kim Jong Un

It is very rare for Kim Jong Un to apologize, especially when it comes to something that the country's military did. According to Lt. Gen. Ahn Young-ho, a top official with South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff, a worker with the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries went missing in waters 1.2 miles or 1.9 kilometers south of the Yeonpyeong Islands on September 21.

South Korean defense officials said in the past that they believed the man was in the process of attempting to defect to North Korea, according to The New York Times.

In a statement on September 24, the South Korean military said that they condemn the atrocities of the North, and they urged Pyongyang to provide an explanation and punish those responsible.

The tensions have been rising between the two countries since communication between the North and the South was cut off in June when Pyongyang first closed and then blew up a joint liaison office in Kaesong, which is a city on the northern side of the border.

The tension between the North and the South came after years of attempting to amend the tragic past of the two countries.

The rapprochement was led by South Korean President Moon Jae-In, and it resulted in historic meetings between the South Korean president and the North Korean leader.

However, the meetings between the two leaders did not deliver long-lasting results between the two countries, and North Korea has taken a different tone towards the South, a shift in stance that has come as Kim Jong Un's sister, Kim Yo Jong, moved into a more influential position in the North Korean regime.

Related Article: US Army Reinforcements Sent to Syria as ISIS Rises, Clashes with Russian Troops

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Congress leaders Vadra and will be visiting Hathras in to meet the family members of a Dailt gangrape victim, who died in a Delhi hospital on Tuesday.

"Priyanka and Rahul will be visiting Hathras to meet the family members of the victim," Congress media coordinator Lalan Kumar said, adding that a large number of party workers have gathered at Ghaziabad to receive the two leaders.

In Hathras, the district magistrate has imposed prohibitory orders under section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) and ordered sealing of the district borders to maintain peace.

A 19-year-old Dalit woman was allegedly raped by four upper-caste men in Hathras on September 14 and referred to the Safdarjung hospital in Delhi on Monday with spinal cord injuries, paralysis and cuts in her tongue. She died around 3 am on Tuesday.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
New Delhi:

Both the houses of Parliament are likely to witness uproar on Friday as the Opposition will reportedly build pressure on the Narendra Modi government for waiver of farmer loan.



The Opposition has reportedly made a strategy to counter the governments claims that the Budget presented by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley is pro farmer, pro poor and development oriented.



Meanwhile, the TMC on Friday staged a protest in Parliament the premises near the Mahatma Gandhi statue against the Narendra Modi government.



Here are the live updates:

#Rajya Sabha adjourned till 2 pm



#Lok Sabha adjourned till 1 PM



#FM Arun Jaitley introduces Specified Bank Notes (Cessation of Liabilities) Bill 2017 in Lok Sabha



#No casualty/injury to ships' crew. Massive clean up operation launched with 2000+ persons: Union Min Pon Radhakrishnan in LS on oil spill



#Were protesting against vindictive activities of Modiji; they arrested our leader S Bandyopadhyay, but Modiji can't stop us: Kalyan Banerjee, TMC



#Lok Sabha adjourned till 12 noon



#Senior leader shouldn't be insulted like this; Let's see if they allow us to raise the matter in the House: Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress EAhamed



Delhi: TMC stages protest against the government, in front of the Gandhi statue inside Parliament complex pic.twitter.com/VxaMeRzstN  ANI (@ANI_news) February 3, 2017

#Sharad Yadav gives adjournment notice on Uniform Civil Code in Rajya Sabha

#Delhi: TMC stages protest against the government, in front of the Gandhi statue inside Parliament complex



#Specified Bank Notes (Cessation of Liabilities) Bill '17 scheduled to be introduced in Lok Sabha today; FM Arun Jaitley to introduce the Bill

Vote | Budget 2017 non-populist or growth oriented? Rate Finance Minister Jaitley's Budget here

#Bharatiya Janata Party asks all BJP MPs to be present in the Lok Sabha today

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Albert Einstein's theory of general relativity  the idea that gravity is matter warping spacetime- has faced more than 100 years of scrutiny, but a new discovery may help support the physicist's hypothesis.

Researchers at the University of Arizona uncovered a 'shadow' cast by the supermassive black hole, known as M87, which proves Einstein is correct.

The team found the intense gravity of the black hole bent spacetime, thereby 'acting as a magnifying glass and causing the black hole shadow to appear larger'.

By measuring this distortion, researchers said they found the size of the black hole shadow was consistent with the size predicted by the mathematics of general relativity.

Researchers at the University of Arizona uncovered a 'shadow' cast by the supermassive black hole, known as M87, which proves Einstein is correct. The team found the intense gravity of the black hole bent spacetime, thereby 'acting as a magnifying glass and causing the black hole shadow to appear larger. The bright thin ring seen in blue is the shadow

Scientists have been conducted gravitational tests for nearly a century.

During a 1919 solar eclipse, Sir Arthur Eddington observed the first evidence of general relativity was in the displacement of starlight that was seen traveling along the curvature of spacetime caused by the sun's gravity.

For the recent study, researchers analyzed images of the black hole located in the center of the Messier 87 galaxy, which is 53.49 million light-years away from Earth, to test Einstein's theory.

This specific black hole is the same one researchers with the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) used to create the first-ever image of a black hole in 2019, which was shown as a fiery ring of gas around a dark central - the black hole itself.

By measuring this distortion, researchers said they found the size of the black hole shadow was consistent with the size predicted by the mathematics of general relativity.

The photo was obtained by a network of eight telescopes at high altitudes around the world, as part of the EHT project.

Albert Einstein's theory of general relativity is the idea that gravity is matter warping spacetime

Lia Medeiros, of the Institute for Advanced Study (IAS) in New Jersey, said: 'This is really just the beginning.

'We have now shown that it is possible to use an image of a black hole to test the theory of gravity.'

Although a black hole does not give off light, it is surrounded by a hot disc that emits gas around the event horizon, which is what produces the effect of a shadow.

The first results revealed that the size of the black-hole shadow was consistent with the size predicted by general relativity.

UArizona Steward Theory Fellow Pierre Christian said: 'At that time, we were not able to ask the opposite question: How different can a gravity theory be from general relativity and still be consistent with the shadow size?'

We wondered if there was anything we could do with these observations in order to cull some of the alternatives.'

This specific black hole is the same one researchers with the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) used to create the first-ever image of a black hole in 2019, which was shown as a fiery ring of gas around a dark central - the black hole itself.

Katie Bouman was instrumental in capturing the very first image of a black hole. Here, she shared her achievement on Facebook. Study author Maciek Wielgus is adjacent to Bouman

The team focused on the range of alternatives that had passed all the previous tests in the solar system.

UArizona astrophysics professor Feryal Ozel, a senior member of the EHT collaboration, said: 'Using the gauge we developed, we showed that the measured size of the black hole shadow in M87 tightens the wiggle room for modifications to Einstein's theory of general relativity by almost a factor of 500, compared to previous tests in the solar system.'

'Black hole images provide a completely new angle for testing Einstein's theory of general relativity,' said Michael Kramer, director of the Max Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy and EHT collaboration member.

However, the team understands that testing the theory of gravity does not stop here and will be conducting more work to answer a number of questions:Are the general relativity predictions for various astrophysical objects good enough for astrophysicists to not worry about any potential differences or modifications to general relativity?

'We always say general relativity passed all tests with flying colors - if I had a dime for every time I heard that,' Ozel said. 'But it is true, when you do certain tests, you don't see that the results deviate from what general relativity predicts. What we're saying is that while all of that is correct, for the first time we have a different gauge by which we can do a test that's 500 times better, and that gauge is the shadow size of a black hole.'

The EHT team is working on gathering higher resolution images using its current telescopes, along with three new ones - the observation is set for sometime next year.

'When we obtain an image of the black hole at the center of our own galaxy, then we can constrain deviations from general relativity even further,' Ozel said.
Dr. Clayton Chau, the Orange County Health Care Agency director and county health officer, waits to speak at a Board of Supervisors meeting in Santa Ana, Calif., on Sept. 29, 2020. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

OCHCA Director Encouraged by Back-to-School COVID Trends

Dr. Clayton Chau, the Orange County Health Care Agency (OCHCA) director and county health officer, said a recent uptick in the countys COVID-19 numbers was small but significant, as officials announced the county will not be transitioning from the red to the orange tier in Californias monitoring system for at least two more weeks.

County officials had previously hoped to move to the next tier this week, but a jump in the case rate believed to be caused by the effects of Labor Day weekend will keep the county in the same tier beyond the required three weeks.

That means that as we move forward, we still need to have two weeks of numbers in the orange tier consecutively in order for us to move into the orange tier, Chau said at the countys Sept. 29 Board of Supervisors meeting.

The county must have a positivity rate between 2 and 4 percent and a case rate of 1 to 3.9 per 100,000 for those two weeks.

On Sept. 29, Orange Countys data was updated by the state, and it showed a positivity rate of 3.1 percent and a case rate of 4.4. Last week, the case rate was only 3.6 per 100,000.

Despite the setback, Chau said he was impressed at the preventive measures taken by local schools at every level.

Chau said he holds a monthly call with local higher education officials. The three largest schools in Orange Countythe University of CaliforniaIrvine, California State UniversityFullerton, and Chapman Universityhave done a wonderful job preparing, he said.

In addition, none of the elementary schools that obtained waivers from the county to open starting in mid-August experienced a single outbreak.

However, some community members who attended the meeting expressed frustration regarding continued COVID-19 restrictions in the county.

Some parents of children who have returned to school said their sons and daughters had developed sores on their faces from wearing masks for such an extended period of time, especially in the recent hot weather.

Chau said the side effect was unfortunate, but still recommended that children wear masks in school.

More reports have come out about aerosol transmission, and thats why the requirement now is in order for a kid to stay indoors an extended amount of time in a classroom, they should be wearing a mask, he said.

Chau said that California issued new guidelines on Sept. 28 for reopening outdoor playgrounds, a move that had been much-anticipated.

Visitors over 2 years of age at playgrounds are required to wear face masks at all times.

The toddlers are mandated to maintain a distance of 6 feet from members of different households, avoid eating or drinking, wash or sanitize their hands before and after using the playground, and limit their visits to 30 minutes per day if others are present.

Each playground facility is required to clean its equipment regularlydaily, if possibleas well as post the maximum number of children allowed on site. Safe distancing spaces must be marked on the ground where families wait to enter.

Unfortunately, the new guidance doesnt apply to skate parks, according to Chau.

I already submitted a request to the state to talk about it, he said.

The issue with skate parks is  you have too many kids that are skating in every other direction, [and] the risk of them exposing each other is higher.

In general, Orange Countys numbers are still largely trending in the right direction, Chau said.

The countys testing capability remains strong. The super site in Anaheim was only at about 30 percent capacity over the last seven days, while the Costa Mesa fairground site was at 46 percent.
By GEOFF MULVIHILL Associated Press

DAVENPORT, Iowa  The racial justice protests following the death of George Floyd earlier this year prompted calls to defund the police in cities across the country, a priority for activists that has now become a central point in the presidential contest.

A review by The Associated Press finds that while some local governments have trimmed police budgets over the past four months, the cuts have been mostly modest. They have been driven as much by shrinking government revenue related to the coronavirus pandemic as from the calls to rethink public safety.

Advocates want to overhaul a policing system that has repeatedly been linked to brutality against Black people, including the death of Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police in May.

Those calling for defunding generally mean shifting money from law enforcement agencies to other efforts to create safety and well-being in the community. They want social workers rather than police to respond to non-crime emergency calls and more money sent to community programs aimed at preventing crime. They want to take police officers out of schools and military gear away from departments.

Police dont really solve or prevent most of what is classified as criminal activity, said Ash-Lee Woodard Henderson, a lead activist at the Movement for Black Lives.

A narrative that has often overwhelmed local debates over police reforms and funding is that activists want to strip entire budgets from local law enforcement and replace the departments with something else. President Donald Trump has repeatedly said his Democratic rival, former Vice President Joe Biden, supports defunding police, even though Biden has stated clearly that he does not. Democratic mayors across the U.S. also have pumped the brakes on major changes.

In Portland, Minneapolis and Seattle, all hotspots for protests and counter-protests, the calls for deep police cuts have been answered with modest ones, at least for now. Even in liberal enclaves such as Austin and Berkeley, where officials have embraced sweeping changes to policing, implementation is slow-going and uncertain.

Some of the boldest proposals came in Minneapolis, where Floyd died after being pinned to the ground by a white officer who pressed his knee into Floyds neck for nearly eight minutes. The officer and three other officers were fired and have been charged in Floyds death.

Soon after Floyd was killed, the majority of the City Council pledged to dismantle the police department. But its far from happening: Some council members have backtracked on their pledges, and a ballot measure on the topic wont go before voters this year.

In Seattle, activists have called for cutting police funding in half. The City Council approved something much more modest  cuts equal to less than 1% of the police budget and shifts of some money to community programs.

Mayor Jenny Durkan vetoed even that before the council overrode her in late September, with some calling the measure a down payment on future reductions. In a statement, Durkan said the calls for budget cuts dont come with solutions about how to offer many of the services police perform, including dealing with homeless encampments.

Part of my overwhelming concern about councils approach on the 2020 budget was a lack of a plan, said Durkan, who like most big-city mayors, is a Democrat.

In Portland, this years police budget is nearly $10 million less than last years, but that was far less than the $50 million cut activists had sought. It represents less than 4% of the police budget.

Austin has plans to reduce its police budget by one-third, but its not certain that will happen. The city transferred about $21.5 million of its $450 million police budget to areas such as homeless services.

The city is exploring bigger changes, including moving civilian duties such as forensic science and victim services out of the department. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, has said he would consider having the state take over policing in the capital city in response.

In Berkeley, the council agreed in July to create a new traffic enforcement agency with the intent of eliminating racial profiling in traffic stops. But the switch will take time.

Some smaller left-leaning cities also are considering cuts to police. Burlington, Vermont, adopted a plan to reduce the number of officers by 30% through attrition. In North Carolina, the Asheville City Council this past summer gave police and other city departments only one-fourth of their annual funding. But in September, the council adopted a budget that repurposes only about 3% of the police budget.

Larger cities, including San Francisco and Los Angeles, have settled on relatively small police budget reductions and boosts to other programs. Philadelphia rolled back planned funding increases.

New York City announced a police budget cut, but a piece of that was moving school officers from the police department to the education department.

Some activists have been underwhelmed at the scope of the changes so far.

Its a positive that we were able to prevent increases in budgets, said Scott Roberts, who leads criminal justice efforts for the racial justice group Color of Change. But its not what we were looking for.

Patrick Yoes, president of the Fraternal Order of Police, which has endorsed Trump, told the AP that the defunding talk is demoralizing officers and pushing good candidates away from police careers.

Even without massive policing overhauls, its significant that cities are including law enforcement budgets in the spending cuts they are being forced to make as tax revenue has shriveled during the coronavirus pandemic, said Insha Rahman, a vice president at the Vera Institute of Justice.

Police spending accounts for one-fourth to half of government spending in most big cities and has sometimes been considered untouchable.

We are seeing in big city councils, like in New York City, the budget conversation has been dominated by what actually delivers public safety, Rahman said.

Some departments got a one-time boost this year from an $850 million law enforcement package approved by Congress to deal with coronavirus-related expenses.

While there have been no massive defunding actions, policing changes are being considered in cities across the U.S.

In Davenport, Iowa, the Civil Rights Commission is asking the City Council to consider a list of initiatives on public safety, including reallocating money from police to social services and community programs.

Henry Karp, the commission vice chairman, said he is hopeful the measures will be adopted, though he expects resistance.

He cited the August shooting by police of Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisconsin, which left the Black man paralyzed. Like Kenosha, Davenport is a Midwestern city of about 100,000 people.

That hasnt happened here yet, Karp said. And thats what we want to prevent.

-- The Associated Press
HONG KONG: Millions of Chinese tourists usually would use their week-long National Day holidays to travel abroad.

This year, travel restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic mean that some 600 million tourists about 40% of the population will travel within China during the holiday that began Thursday, according to Ctrip, Chinas largest online travel agency.

Thats still down 25% from last year, when tourists took 782 million domestic trips and generated tourism revenue of 650 billion yuan ($95.4 billion), according to government data.

The eight-day holiday this year, which coincides with the Mid-Autumn Festival, will be a litmus test of whether Chinas tourism industry can bounce back following the battering it took earlier in the year. Travel within the country, and sometimes even within cities, was restricted beginning with the Lunar New Year as China fought the spread of the coronavirus that emerged in the central city of Wuhan and has sickened more than 34 million people, killing over a million.

The weeklong holiday in October is typically the busiest time for domestic travel.

With the worlds biggest-spending tourists spending their money travelling domestically, local governments are offering discounts and subsidies to tourists, including free or heavily discounted tickets to attractions.

Zhao Kerui, a designer with a flexible working schedule, often takes several trips abroad each year. Last year, he visited Malaysia and Japan. He had planned to visit Istanbul in Turkey or to Jeju island in South Korea this year, but eventually decided to instead visit cities like Chengdu, known for being the home of pandas, as well as scenic Guilin, famed for its karst limestone hills.

To take a trip abroad, you will be quarantined for half a month when you arrive, and when you return, its another half a month of quarantine, Zhao said. One month is gone with you doing nothing at all.

Cao Ke, a science researcher based in Shanghai, usually would spend his National Day holiday relaxing at the beaches in Thailands Phuket island. This year hes heading to the southern coastal province of Fujian in China, hoping to take some nice photos.

I usually prefer traveling abroad, because there are too many people traveling domestically, and accommodation and meals become very expensive, said Cao.

Thats a sentiment shared by many Chinese who can afford to fly overseas for holidays but now are barred by flight cancelations and quarantine restrictions. Thailand, one of the most popular destinations among Chinese travelers, closed its airports to international commercial flights in April and has yet to fully reopen to tourism.

So instead, Chinese will be crowding into popular attractions, such as the Disneyland resort in Shanghai and the research base for panda breeding in the southwestern city of Chengdu, Ctrips report said.

China is one of the few countries in the world where millions are freely touring around the country, while most countries are discouraging unnecessary travel as they battle coronavirus outbreaks.

China has reported no new locally-transmitted coronavirus infections since Aug. 16, and the countrys culture and tourism ministry last month eased restrictions on tourist sites, allowing them to operate at 75% capacity. Visitors also are encouraged to obey social-distancing rules during their travels.

The number of tourists at top tourist attractions across the country jumped nearly 159% in the second quarter of the year compared to the previous quarter, at the height of pandemic shutdowns.

The number of tourists visiting resorts and engaging in rural tourism in July and August was about 90% of last years level, Shan Gangxin, an official with Chinas ministry of culture and tourism, told reporters in Beijing this week.

Hotel bookings are 50% higher compared to last year, and airline reservations are on a par with 2019, helped by discounts for hotels and flights, according to data from Fliggy, Alibabas online travel arm.

Railway authorities said they expect 108 million train journeys to be made between Monday, Sept. 28 and Oct. 8, or an average of almost 10 million per day. Overall, train and airline passenger numbers are still forecast to be lower than in previous years amid concerns that restrictions could be re-imposed if new cases are detected.

Like many other Chinese, Zhao plans to stick to domestic trips for the next few months.

To be honest, its the same whether I travel abroad or around China, he said. I do it to relax.

AP researcher Chen Si in Shanghai contributed to this report.

Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor
Mitsubishi September 2020 North America Sales







Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) recently released a first look at the redesigned 2022 Eclipse Cross, the next step in the company's commitment to delivering a showroom full of new and extensively redesigned vehicles in the United States.

MMNA will launch three considerably revised vehicles and one all-new, ground-up redesign by the second quarter of 2021: the 2022 Eclipse Cross, mechanically upgraded 2021 Outlander PHEV, the redesigned 2021 Mirage and the all-new next-generation 2022 Outlander.

MMNA is teaming with military veterans charity Record the Journey to contest this months Rebelle Rally in a 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, the first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) ever to compete in the grueling 2000-km, all-womens, off-road navigation event.

MMNA recently announced a partnership with leading Internet-of-Things technology providers Aeris and Dealer-FX to leverage connected car technology that will enhance the Mitsubishi customer service and ownership experience.

Mitsubishis Small Batch  Big Impact corporate social responsibility program expanded its mission in Q3, announcing a partnership with the Nashville Entrepreneur Center and assisting the Nashville Community Resource Center to distribute PPE kits to local teachers.

Q3 YTD 2020 2019 2020 2019 Mirage 5,839 8,276 14,292 21,177 Outlander Sport 7,719 7,382 24,504 26,150 Outlander 7,923 4,882 23,467 30,471 Outlander PHEV 947 666 1579 1,914 Eclipse Cross 2,429 3,268 8,775 15,859 TOTALS 24,857 24,474 72,617 95,571

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) today reported third-quarter 2020 sales of 24,857vehicles, an increase of 1.5% over the same period in 2019, and up a significant 49% over the previous quarter of 2020. This sales performance signals a continued recovery of new vehicle sales across the U.S., following a substantial disruption of business through the year due to the COVID-19 pandemic and safer-at-home orders.

About Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.

Through a network of approximately 350 dealer partners across the United States, Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is responsible for the sales, research and development, marketing and customer service of Mitsubishi Motors vehicles in the U.S. 2019 marked the brands seventh consecutive year of sales growth, and MMNA was the top-ranked Japanese brand in the J.D. Power 2020 Initial Quality study, ranking sixth overall and experiencing the greatest year-over-year improvement of any brand.

Located in Franklin, Tennessee, MMNA is a part of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance. Mitsubishi continues to lead the way in the development of highly efficient, affordably priced new gasoline-powered automobiles, while using its industry-leading knowledge in battery-electric vehicles to develop future EV and PHEV models.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. A former high ranking Armenian military official is charged with high treason on suspicion of spying for the Azerbaijani intelligence agencies, the National Security Service of Armenia said.

According to the NSS, an ongoing criminal investigation gathered sufficient evidence revealing a case of state treason committed by a person who was formerly a high ranking military serviceman.

The suspect, an Armenian citizen, during many years of holding ranking positions in the Armenian military, gathered top secret state information with the goal of transferring it to a foreign organization, and provided other assistance for hostile activities damaging the territorial inviolability and foreign security of Armenia.

The suspect is said to have been recruited by the Azeri intelligence in Georgian territory.

He was given assignments by the Azeri intelligence agencies to gather information or reveal the already known information about the external security of Artsakh and Armenia, their militaries and armaments, including reserve forces, tanks, and various other information concerning the armed forces.

The suspect had security clearance and obtained the information and provided it to the Azeris by personally meeting them during trips to Georgia. The suspect even met with the Azeris at the Azerbaijani embassy in Georgia.

A search conducted at the suspects home and other premises revealed a large number of ammunition, explosives and weapons, as well as top secret military documents.

The radio-communication devices the suspect used, as well as contact information of the Azeri agents was also found.

Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan
ABC News

Demonstrators gathered in Washington on Friday for the country's largest annual anti-abortion rally around the anniversary of the landmark 1973 Supreme Court decision establishing the right to an abortion -- but this year, 49 years later, they march with the fate of Roe v. Wade more uncertain than ever. "We expect this year's March for Life to be historic with even higher levels of enthusiasm from participants," Jeanne Mancini, president of March for Life, told ABC News in a statement. "We are all hopeful that, with the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization case before the Supreme Court, this year will bring us much closer to building the culture of life we have all marched for since Roe v. Wade was imposed on our nation nearly 50 years ago."
NEW YORK, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the world today. Globally, 7 million people die every year from tobacco use, and the number is projected to increase to 8 million if the pattern of smoking doesn't change. These disturbing statistics are being noted by companies with experience and interest in working to make a difference in the world and provide effective ways to support and help smokers quit. One of those companies, Kaival Brands Innovations Group Inc. (OTCQB: KAVL) (KAVL Profile), recently announced it had acquired a patent for a synthetic nicotine and synthetic nicotine addiction therapy products; the company is also creating a lab,, which will manufacture and distribute products developed from that patent. Kaival isn't the only company with that objective in mind. Since 2008, Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE: PM) has invested more than $7.2 billion in the science and research of developing smoke-free products. Imperial Brands (OTC: IMBBY) is in the process of developing a range of Next Generation Products with the potential to reduce smoking-related disease. Earlier this year, Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ) released Nicorette(r) Mouth Spray. And Cigna Corporation (NYSE: CI) has created a Quit Smoking online campaign that provides extensive information and resources for individuals trying to kick the habit.

Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the world, with seven million people dying annually from tobacco use.

Kaival Brands has acquired a patent for a formulation of purified synthetic nicotine that is tobacco free.

Kaival Labs Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of KAVL, has been created to develop products associated with that exclusive patent.

Living with Death, Disease

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that approximately 1,300 people die every day as a result of smoking. In addition, more than 16 million Americans are living with a disease caused by smoking. Smoking and tobacco have been linked to diseases and disabilities that impact nearly every organ of the body, including cancer, heart disease, stroke, lung disease, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and more.

And all of this can be prevented.

The fact that millions of deaths could be prevented if the right products and support were available has not gone unnoticed. Savvy companies recognize the potential benefits of providing solutions in this space may include more than saving lives. According to a 2019 Global Smoking Cessation Market Analysis, the smoking cessation market is projected to reach $63.99 billion by 2026 and grow at a CAGR of 16.9% during 2018 to 2026.

An Exclusive Patent

Even with the threat of death and disease, 34.2 million U.S. adults still smoke, according to the latest numbers from the National Health Information Survey. However, the vast majority of them  an estimated 70% of current adult smokers in the country  want to quit; in fact, 55% have attempted to quit in the past year. Unfortunately, only 7% are able to kick the habit because nicotine is such a highly addictive chemical, and cigarettes deliver the ingredient so rapidly.

Kaival Brands Innovations Group Inc. (OTCQB: KAVL), a company focused on growing and incubating innovative and profitable products into mature, dominant brands, recognizes the need to make a difference in the smoking cessation sector. The company, which has reported $54.8 million in revenue and $6.9 million in gross profits thus far this year, recently obtained an international patent portfolio concerning full customization of certain isomeric properties of synthetic nicotine. This Tobacco-Free Nicotine (TFN) contains no trace of tobacco; rather it is made from a natural starter that undergoes a series of chemical reactions to produce the final TFN product.

"The science behind these patents has discovered that within the nicotine molecule, the S-isomers control the addictive properties, whereas the R-isomers control the beneficial qualities of the nicotine that a user enjoys," explained Kaival Brands CEO Niraj Patel. "The exclusivity is that the patents allows us to control the specific ratios of each isomer in the final synthetic nicotine molecule we produce for cessation products. We can now create completely unique products for smoking cessation and nicotine addiction therapy that remain effective and satisfying for the user, but are free from nicotine's addictive traits."

Eradication of Nicotine Addiction

In conjunction with the patent, Kaival Brands has announced the creation of Kaival Labs Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary, that will own the patent and develop associated products.

"Kaival Labs will own the patented science to create a pure, yet non-addictive synthetic nicotine for the development and production of smoking cessation and nicotine replacement therapy products," said Patel. "Tobacco-Free Nicotine (TFN) is a certified clean, pure, non-tobacco-derived synthetic nicotine, and a key ingredient in numerous products like nicotine patches, lozenges, gums, vape sticks, e-liquids and more."

Kaival Labs is focused on pioneering the movement in creating a tobacco-free future. The new facility will rely on research and science to formulate and design smoking cessation treatment options to support and assist millions of people in their efforts to quit smoking. The lab is also intent on improving public health through the gradual eradication of nicotine addiction.

True Step-Down Products

Most of the smoking cessation products or Nicotine Reduction Therapy (NRT) products currently available are generally ineffective. The majority of them are designed to simply decrease the concentrations of nicotine, calling for users themselves to reduce their usage over time.

Kaival Labs' newly acquired patent provides the ability to control the levels of each isomer in a final product, thereby producing patented, true step-down products that reduce nicotine addiction levels without reducing the benefits a user is used to. The R-S- isomeric ratio in nicotine accounts for the addictive and beneficial properties and strengths of the chemical. Kaival Labs' exclusive NRT formulation modifies the ratio of R- S- isomers, resulting in synthetic nicotine that is effective in curbing nicotine addiction and may even have potential for use on a medical level in most beneficial form.

"Billions of smokers and tobacco users worldwide are looking for an answer and a real solution to their nicotine addiction problems," said Patel. "Imagine patent-protected products, either approved pharmaceutically or made available over-the-counter, that offered a way to truly ease a user off their addictive cravings for nicotine without losing any of their accustomed benefits along the way. We are excited to develop these innovative patents and bring effective, enjoyable smoking cessation products to market, helping all nicotine users lead healthier and higher-quality lives."

In a space where desperate smokers are seeking solutions, Kaival Brands appears to be particularly well positioned to take advantage of the huge potential and see substantial growth.

Supporting Efforts to Quit

Of course, Kaival Brands isn't the only company working in the sector. Given the tremendous potential, companies with interest and experience in smoking cessation are working to capture market share and offer support to smokers who yearn to quit.

Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE: PM) has shared its vision is to offer current adult smokers a better choice than continued smoking. In efforts to transform that vision into reality, the company has invested approximately $7.2 billion into the science and research of developing smoke-free products. PM also employs more than 400 world-class scientists, engineers and technicians in the development of a portfolio of smoke-free products that deliver nicotine without burning tobacco.

Imperial Brands (OTC: IMBBY) is committed in its efforts to transition smokers from combustible tobacco products to potentially less-harmful alternatives. Those efforts include the development of Next Generation Products that have the potential to reduce smoking-related disease, including its presence in the vaping industry. IMBBY's pioneer vaping brand, blu, includes vapor products that are battery-powered devices that heat e-liquids to create a vapor that is inhaled by the user. These products are fundamentally different from all tobacco-based products and devices as they do not contain tobacco leaf.

Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ) is involved in Nicorette innovation with the release of its new Nicorette Mouth Spray, which is designed for rapid relief of nicotine cravings. Product information notes that anyone wanting to quit smoking may have to struggle with withdrawal symptoms. With two sprays into the mouth, Nicorette Spray offers rapid and effective help to relieve acute nicotine cravings within a minute. Based on the company's research, smokers who use Nicorette Mouth Spray are twice as likely to get through 12 months without a cigarette.

Cigna Corporation (NYSE: CI) has gathered extensive information as well as resources in its online smoking cessation campaign. The campaign outlines the components of effective smoking cessation programs, provides strategies for quitting smoking and staying smoke-free, and offers specific steps for undertaking efforts to quit smoking. In addition, the campaign suggests places to go for support and provides insightful information into why smoking is addictive and what the challenges and benefits may be for those desiring to quit.

All these companies share the same end game: to save lives and decrease disease-related disabilities related smoking and tobacco use. Their commitment to providing effective products and solutions in the smoking cessation sector could make a significant difference in efforts to reduce the numbers and provide hope to smokers who are desperately seeking to live healthier lives.

For more information about Kaival Brands, please visit Kaival Brands Innovations Group Inc. (OTCQB: KAVL).

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SYRACUSE  A former top official at SUNY's Upstate Medical University pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor criminal charge Wednesday to settle allegations that he had falsified his professional background on the resume he submitted when applying for the $340,000-a-year job.

The guilty plea of Sergio Garcia settled a case in which he had been charged with two felonies in March 2019 following a grand jury investigation by Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick. The investigation began in September 2018 following a Times Union story that raised questions about multiple claims Garcia had made concerning his background.

The newspaper's story on Garcia also revealed that a number of statements he made in a videotaped speech in 2017 at a university lecture hall did not stand up to scrutiny.

Among them were Garcia's account of being present at what he said was a 2011 bombing in Afghanistan that took the life of a young diplomat; statements asserting that he had been interviewed for a U.S. State Department post by then-Secretary of State Colin L. Powell, and a claim that former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice remained his close friend and mentor.

Garcia's account of the bombing  which actually took place in 2013, months after he had left Afghanistan for an academic post in Ohio  was refuted by witnesses who were there; sources close to Powell and Rice shot down Garcia's assertions about them.

Under a plea agreement, Garcia is expected to be sentenced on Nov. 13 to a conditional discharge with restitution. It was not immediately clear on Wednesday if prosecutors may seek to have Garcia repay any portion of his salary as part of any judgment, although Fitzpatrick previously said his office may pursue that.

Fitzpatrick previously said that the charges alleged Garcia falsified entries on his resume by claiming he graduated from a university in Mexico and had held the title "chief of staff" at the U.S. State Department.

"He actually attended that university in Mexico but he never graduated," Fitzpatrick had said. At the State Department, Garcia "was basically just a grunt."

Garcia could not be be reached for comment Wednesday.

The Times Union had obtained a copy of Garcia's resume and job application with SUNY that was released by state officials two years ago, but they blacked out most of his work experience, as well as sections labeled "awards" and "language skills." A SUNY official claimed disclosure of the information could "endanger the life or safety" of Garcia.

Upstate Medical University placed Garcia on leave on the day the Times Union's story was published in May 2018. The university's former president, Danielle Laraque-Arena, had issued a statement that day characterizing the accusations against Garcia as "troubling." He resigned the following day.

In a statement provided to the Times Union in 2018, Garcia apologized for what he referred to as "unintentional errors ... as I attempted to provide a lot of information in a short amount of time of my personal and professional journey in serving our country with honor and distinction."

He acknowledged that he had not been in Afghanistan when the bombing occurred.

Garcia, 44, had been a senior vice president and chief of staff at Upstate Medical University since his appointment in March 2017.

The false account of the 2013 bombing by Garcia was one of multiple misrepresentations he allegedly made during the 2017 lecture in the fourth floor auditorium at the university's Academic Building.

He also claimed that former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton personally asked him to remain in foreign service after he told her he was leaving Afghanistan. "She looked at me like I was nuts, (and said:) 'Sergio, you can't leave,'" he said during his speech. "The adjustment was difficult, I'm not going to lie. It took me at least a year, year and a half, maybe it's post-traumatic synd ... ," he added, his voice trailing off.

A State Department official had said Garcia was employed as a foreign affairs officer from August 2004 through April 2006, when he became a senior advisor in the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs.

On his New York state job application, Garcia wrote "no" in response to a question about whether he had ever been terminated or asked to resign from a job.

Federal court records filed in California indicate that in 1998, while working for a bank in La Mesa, Calif., he was charged with falsifying bank records, a felony, and embezzlement, a misdemeanor, for allegedly taking $560 from customer accounts for his personal use. The case, which was investigated by the FBI, was dismissed in 1999, after Garcia had completed 100 hours of community service, records show.
Robert Gavin Times Union, Albany, N.Y. (TNS)

NEW YORK  Heiress Clare Bronfman was sentenced Wednesday to six years and nine months in federal prison for crimes related to her leadership role in NXIVM. She was taken directly into federal custody at the end of the court proceeding.

The sentence was handed down to the 41-year-old daughter of late Seagrams tycoon Edgar Bronfman in a Brooklyn courtroom after several victims related their painful experiences dealing with the well-heeled backer of Keith Ranieres cult-like organization.

A number of former NXIVM members delivered victim impact statements to Senior U.S. District Judge Nicholas Garaufis.

One of those women was Barbara Bouchey, a former girlfriend of Ranieres who faced years of retaliation by NXIVM after she left the group more than a decade ago.

She called Garaufis' sentence justice served: When I heard him say 81 months, I was speechless, Bouchey said.

Bronfman, who has homes in Clifton Park and Manhattan, was anticipating a sentence of just 21 to 27 months in prison under sentencing guidelines for her guilty plea to conspiracy to conceal and harbor illegal aliens for financial gain, and fraudulent use of identification.

Garaufis had made it clear he was considering an above guidelines punishment. Her recently hired attorneys, Ronald S. Sullivan Jr. and Duncan Levin, have asked for three years of probation. Federal prosecutors in Brooklyns Eastern District have asked for a five-year prison sentence. Garuafis went beyond both requests.

He also levied a $500,000 fine on Bronfman.

Prosecutors said Bronfman, who was in NXIVM alongside her older sister, Sara Bronfman-Igtet, used her wealth to recruit immigrants  usually women  into NXIVM-related groups under the idea that they would get a scholarship or work. But Bronfman instead got a work-force of recruits desperate to earn a living and who were dependent on her and NXIVM to stay in the country.

Prosecutors have said Bronfman helped Raniere target the companys perceived enemies, which included members of the organization who defected.

I fear that Clares stalking of me is not over, Bouchey said in her statement. The former high-ranking member of NXIVM who said Bronfman went after her, threatening civil and criminal actions following Boucheys departure in 2009 from NXIVM, a purported self-help group that was based in Colonie.

Another former high-ranking NXIVM member, Ivy Nevares, wrote on her blog Monday about her experience in the organization over two decades  and now she eventually realized what she had joined.

Realizing I was in a cult was humiliating, but the worst was realizing the people I had trusted with my life had betrayed me in the most sinister way, stated Nevares. The irony is unmatched: I joined NXIVM to work on my trust issues, yet their treachery nearly eroded my trust in humanity.

Raniere, 60, a longtime Halfmoon resident known in NXIVM as Vanguard, was convicted at trial last year of all charges, which included sex trafficking, forced labor conspiracy and racketeering charges that included underlying acts that included child exploitation, possession of child pornography, identity theft, extortion, fraud and other crimes. He faces the possibility of life in prison at his sentencing on Oct. 27.

Actress defends NXIVMs Keith Raniere, says Upstate NY sex cult founder is a victim

Bronfman, NXIVMs longtime operations director, was charged in July 2018 in a superseding indictment that also named Raniere, actress Allison Mack, a high-ranking NXIVM member who was on the television show Smallville; NXIVM president Nancy Salzman; Salzmans daughter and high-ranking NXIVM member Lauren Salzman, and NXIVM bookkeeper Kathy Russell.

All of the women were, at one point, sexually involved with Raniere. The elder Salzman, known in NXIVM as Prefect, later pleaded guilty in 2019 to racketeering conspiracy. Her daughter pleaded guilty to racketeering and racketeering conspiracy and became a star witness for prosecutors at trial. Mack also pleaded guilty to racketeering and racketeering conspiracy. Russell pleaded guilty to visa fraud. All are yet to be sentenced.

On Monday, Bronfman lawyer Duncan Levin told the judge she is facing a possibly serious liver ailment and is scheduling "medical follow-up visits, and we wanted the court to be aware of this situation.

Levin added: We also believe that this puts Clare at heightened health risk, given the status of the pandemic in the New York area.

Bronfman has been staying in her Manhattan home on $100 million bond.
Emerald AZ Photography

Joel Courtney is married!

The Kissing Booth actor, 24, wed his longtime love Mia Scholink, 23, on Sept. 27. in Phoenix, AZ, surrounded by close friends and family.

I am just so thrilled to be married, Courtney, 24, tells PEOPLE. Its one of those things where as much planning and as much anticipation goes into the day, Im so excited to be married to my best friend."

Although their romance first sparked in 2017, Courtney and Scholink, 23, a Beauty Counter consultant/entrepreneur, have known each other since they were toddlers.

"My parents knew Mias parents before either one of us were born," explains Courtney. "My dad did some web development work for her dads business, and they met through church and by the time Mia and I were born, we hung out for three or four years running around in diapers and play dates -- not just us, but our siblings. There are multiple photos where all five of the Scholink kids and all four of the Courtney kids are sitting around a table eating sandwiches and were all under the age of 14. It was so cool."

Emerald AZ Photography

He continues: We reconnected in 2015 and started dating in 2017. We dated for a year and we broke up for a little bit of time and then started dating again in 2019 and it moved really quickly after that.

Scholink says there was a clear sign for both of them at that point that they were meant to be.

I knew she was the one, adds Courtney.

RELATED: The Kissing Booths Joel Courtney Is Engaged to Girlfriend Mia Scholink

The couple got engaged on Valentine's Day this year and quickly started wedding planning. COVID-19 definitely put a wrinkle in some of their plans, but they were still able to have their dream wedding, with the proper precautions in place.

The venue was at 50 percent capacity so we already had a cap [on the guest list] and we socially-distanced everybody. Masks were encouraged and worn, and temperatures were checked at the door, says Courtney. We left it up to our guests to decide their level of comfort, if they wanted to interact and talk to people, we asked that they just be wise/mindful, respect that some people might want to keep their distance and not interact.

Story continues

Adds Scholink: It was sad not having some people there but during these times, it was totally understandable. It was so intimate, it was all close family and friends which kept it amazing, seeing everyone close to you together.

When asked about their favorite moments from the wedding, they have similar answers.

No question, watching Mia walk down the aisle. I was a mess, says Courtney. My chin was trembling and I had tears in my eyes. It was everything I could do to keep them from pouring down my face. I have never experienced such joy.

Scholink feels the same way about seeing her husband-to-be.

Walking down the aisle was such a special moment, with everyone we know standing there and then once I saw Joel I thought, Everythings okay. All the stress was gone, I felt super calm. Also our first look I think was one of my favorite things in the entire world, because we hadn't seen each other since the rehearsal dinner the night before and we wrote each other letters. Also because he hadnt seen the dress, he didnt know anything about it.

She wouldnt even tell me what her hair was going to look like or her makeup, says Courtney. I didnt know anything about the dress other than it was maybe white."

The bride wore a beautiful gown with lace detail by Demetrios Bridal and the groom, styled by Ashley Weston, rocked an Emporio Armani black wool one-button shawl collar tuxedo with satin trim. The bridesmaids wore dresses by Show Me Your Mumu and the groomsman wore suits by The Groomsman Suit.

Emerald AZ Photography

RELATED: The Kissing Booth 3 Was Filmed Already! Joey King and Netflix Announce Release in 2021

The happy couple is currently looking forward to their honeymoon.

We are going to the Florida Keys, neither one of us have been, says Courtney. Mia has never been to Florida and when I talked to her originally about honeymoons she said, 'I want beaches, sun, and little umbrellas in drinks.'

Yeah! I just want to relax, Scholink says. And we both love the beach.

I said 'Say no more, Ill run with the idea.' So yeah were going to be down in the Florida Keys. Im really excited. Thats a different kind of warmth and heat, I love the ocean air.

All in all, the newlyweds couldn't be happier together and to be married.

I would just include that Mia was the most beautiful bride in the universe. In all of time and history, or the future." says Courtney.

Scholink [laughs] and adds: "I married the best man ever!"
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday said her party will continue to fight till women's safety is ensured in Uttar Pradesh and unless the government is shaken and woken up, it will not do anything on this front.

IMAGE: AICC general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on her way to Hathras along with party workers to meet the family members of a 19-year-old Dalit woman who was murdered and gang-raped two weeks ago after her vehicle was stopped by the authorities, at Yamuna Expressway in Noida, on Thursday. Photograph: Ravi Choudhary/PTI Photo

Talking to reporters while walking on the Yamuna Expressway towards Hathras, she said Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath would have to take the responsibility for the alleged gang rape of a 19-year-old Dalit woman in the district and strict action should be taken against the perpetrators of the crime.

The victim died in a Delhi hospital on Tuesday.

"Since our cars have been stopped, we will walk down to Hathras as we want to meet the victim's family. We want to express our condolences to the family," Priyanka Gandhi said.

"He (Adityanath) would have to do something for women's safety. We will continue to fight till the time he does something. The women in the entire state will fight as they realise that they are not safe and secure.

"Everyday such incidents are happening. Eleven rape cases are registered in Uttar Pradesh everyday.

"Such cases are rising and the government is not doing anything. Unless we shake the government or wake them up, they will not do anything for women's safety," she added.

The Congress general secretary recalled that around the same time last year, her party was protesting for the Unnao rape victim.

Taking on the Bharatiya Janata Party government in Uttar Pradesh for 'not allowing the family to cremate the victim's body with honour', she said, "You claim to be the protectors of the Hindu religion, we are Hindus, but where has it been written that you cannot allow a father to lit the pyre of his daughter and not allow the family to cremate the victim?

"The incident was a big injustice. What the state government did after that was a bigger injustice."

Priyanka Gandhi, along with Rahul Gandhi and other Congress leaders and workers, started walking towards Hathras after their cars were stopped by the Uttar Pradesh police near the Pari Chowk on the Noida-Greater Noida Expressway.
CENTREVILLE, Va., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Parsons Corporation (NYSE:PSN) has been awarded a $50.6 million, six-year contract by the U.S. Air Force for the manufacturing, integration and sustainment of 13 Recovery of Airbase Denied by Ordnance (RADBO) systems. RADBO employs the Parsons developed ZEUS directed energy system to destroy unexploded ordnance with extreme accuracy in previously denied areas and improves the safety of deployed warfighters.

"This is Parsons innovation: delivering a game changing warfighting product," said Hector Cuevas, Parsons executive vice president of missile defense and C5ISR. "We're proud to partner with the Air Force in deploying this critical force protection and mission enabling technology that will greatly increase safe and effective explosive ordnance disposal operations."

The program is the first Department of Defense (DoD) ground-based laser system placed into production. RADBO is comprised of three main components: the mine resistant ambush protected (MRAP) vehicle, a ZEUS laser, and an interrogation arm assembly. Air Force explosive ordnance disposal personnel can operate the laser and robotic arm from the safety of the MRAP to rapidly clear multiple unexploded ordnance from airfields. Parsons is the original equipment manufacturer of the ZEUS laser.

The ZEUS laser can hit targets more than 300 meters away from the vehicle and is powerful enough to detonate small submunitions from cluster bombs, land mines, general purposed bombs and thick-cased artillery rounds.

Parsons (NYSE: PSN) is a leading disruptive technology provider in the global defense, intelligence, and critical infrastructure markets, with capabilities across cybersecurity, missile defense, space, connected infrastructure, and smart cities. Please visit parsons.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook to learn how we're making an impact.

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Christian Menefee was still celebrating his victory in the Democratic primary over longtime incumbent Harris County Attorney Vince Ryan when the coronavirus pandemic changed everything. Lockdowns and social distancing left the 32-year-old civil litigation attorney with a lot of time on his hands.

He used those spare hours well. During the last several months, Menefee told the editorial board, he has researched the inner workings of the department he hopes to run. He studied the offices organizational charts. He talked to more than 30 current employees. He reached out to the Dallas County district attorney and the Travis County attorney.

That helped give him a solid understanding of the office he seeks and what improvements need to be made, Menefee said.

You can't just come in with ideas, said Menefee, a Houston native who is a litigator with Kirkland & Ellis. You need to come in with stuff that you know is going to work.

That kind of energy, attention to detail and determination to make the county attorney office as effective as possible earn Menefee our endorsement. We also recommended him in the primary, noting his commitment to expanding the offices environmental law section, which currently has four full-time lawyers.

In addition to the bread-and-butter work of representing elected officials, local entities and county employees, Menefee said he wants the office to bring more impact litigation to hold polluters accountable.

Menefee also wants the office to be a strong advocate for local control  no small feat, given the control officials in Austin have sought in recent years, including Texas Attorney General Ken Paxtons recent challenges to the county on vote-by -mail applications and eviction policies.

Its important that we elect a county attorney who is going to be prepared to stand up to him in the courts, Menefee told us.

Menefee, who has not held public office, served as an intern in the Harris County Public Defenders office and began his legal practice at Norton Rose Fulbright. He has worked with the NAACP Legal Defense Fund and Texas Appleseed, and served on the Houston Independent Police Advisory Board.

His opponent in the race is Republican John Nation, who practices civil law and whose platform focuses on the protection of abused and neglected children and at-risk adults. Nation seemed to lack a full understanding of the county attorney duties and failed to articulate a clear vision for the office.
Copyright  2020 Albuquerque Journal

When Spanish conquistadors established settlements in what is now New Mexico, they likely had no idea their actions would be cited centuries later in legal arguments over water rights.

On Tuesday, the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals issued an opinion in United States v. Abousleman, overturning a District Court ruling that Spain and Mexico had extinguished aboriginal water rights for the pueblos of Santa Ana, Zia and Jemez in the Jemez River Basin.

Its a big step in a decades-long legal battle to define and quantify pueblo water rights, said Richard Hughes, a Santa Fe lawyer representing Santa Ana Pueblo in the case.

I view it as a major advance in the area of Indian water rights law, Hughes said. Its a ruling unique to the pueblo context, but nonetheless an extremely important development in Indian water law.

Tribal reservations established by the U.S. government have Winters water rights, named for a 1908 Supreme Court case.

But pueblos in New Mexico are unique. Pueblo land was not divided into reservations by the United States, so pueblos cannot claim Winters rights.

Instead, pueblos have aboriginal water rights, acquired by continuous and exclusive occupancy and use of the land.

Hughes compared tribal property rights to a bundle of sticks.

For example, theres the right to develop minerals, to grant easements, to lease land, and the right to use water  thats by far one of the most important of the sticks in the bundle, he said. Other courts have held that an aboriginal title to land includes a right to the use of appurtenant water sources to fulfill the needs of the tribal occupants.

The Abousleman case was originally filed in 1983 by the U.S. government, which claimed non-Indian parties were infringing on pueblo water rights along the Jemez River.

Settlement negotiations fell through in 2012.

In 2016, a district judge found that the three pueblos had aboriginal water rights. But the court held that when Spain extended sovereignty over the area in 1598, the water administration system extinguished those rights.

The pueblos and the U.S. Department of Justice appealed that ruling.

Tuesdays opinion overturns the ruling by concluding there is no evidence that the Spanish crown or the Mexican government forced pueblos to change how they allocated water.

The Spanish government used a process called repartimiento de aguas to solve water disputes in its territories. But a repartimiento never took place on the Jemez River, indicating that neither Spain nor Mexico took issue with pueblo water use.

Nor is there any evidence in the experts reports or testimony that Spains water administration system was adverse to the Pueblos, as it never actually ended the Pueblos exclusive use of water or limited their use in any way, the Tuesday opinion says.  There is no evidence that the Pueblos ever decreased their water usage or were unable to increase their usage. Indeed, there is no evidence that Spanish sovereignty had any impact on the Pueblos use of the water from the Jemez River at all.

A dissenting opinion by Judge Timothy Tymkovich accompanies Tuesdays majority opinion. Tymkovich took issue with the court making a decision about aboriginal water rights before quantifying how much water those rights would allocate to the Jemez River pueblos.

It is problematic to decide whether the Pueblos have aboriginal water rights entitling them to an as-yet-undefined right to expanding or future uses, without also considering the implications for the many other water users on the Jemez, some of whose water rights date to Spanish colonial rule, to say nothing of water users on the Rio Grande, on which other Pueblos may claim a similar aboriginal right to expanding or future uses, Tymkovich wrote.

In the recent Aamodt litigation settlement involving other northern New Mexico pueblos, the court held that aboriginal water rights include the right to sufficient water for present and future needs.

Eventually, well get to the issue of the measure of aboriginal water rights, which will be a hard-fought and complex period in litigation, Hughes said. If that (District Court) ruling had stood and we had continued based on that ruling, wed be totally at sea. We would have had to prove what water they were using in the 1800s, and that would have left us high and dry, as its extremely difficult to reconstruct tribal water use for that time.

Theresa Davis is a Report for America corps member covering water and the environment for the Albuquerque Journal.
They came up and talked to me about it and I listened to them because I wanted to make sure I understood exactly what their concerns were, Mr. Brennan said in the C-SPAN interview. And I encouraged them to talk to the authors of the assessment and determine if the judgment should stay at high confidence or medium confidence.

Intelligence agencies characterize their confidence in intelligence typically at three levels: low, moderate or high. High-confidence conclusions typically have multiple sources and draw from different kinds of intelligence, such as electronic intercepts, satellite photos or human sources of information. A moderate, or medium, level of confidence could reflect that the sourcing behind a conclusion could be weaker.

Mr. Brennan declined to discuss the sources behind the judgment that Mr. Putin sought to aid Mr. Trump. But other former officials have said that a C.I.A. informant, who has since been extracted from Russia, was particularly important for making the judgment; because Mr. Putin eschews electronic devices, intercepting his communications is notoriously difficult.

Mr. Brennan said he had been reviewing new intelligence about Russian interference since the summer of 2016 and was steeped in the material. In his conversation with the two senior officials, he realized they may not have seen all of the material that he and the analysts who wrote the initial conclusion had reviewed.

In my conversation with them, it was apparent to me, and I say in the book, that they had not read all the intelligence that I had read, Mr. Brennan said. So my own view was to support the analysts.

Mr. Brennans decision to back the analysts was the right decision, said Michael Morell, a former acting director of the C.I.A.

I spent 33 years at C.I.A., most of it as an analyst, Mr. Morrell said. Director Brennan handled this exactly the right way. At C.I.A., the analysts make the substantive calls, not senior managers.
Acquisition to support accelerated growth in North America



NEW YORK, Oct. 01, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AB International Group Corp. (OTCQB: ABQQ), an intellectual property (IP) and movie investment and licensing firm, is pleased to announce it has entered into a Letter of Intent (LOI) to acquire MusicPromoToday, subject to due diligence and a definitive agreement with closing conditions, with expected completion before year-end.

Seeing the importance of online visibility and the role social media would play in the careers of artists, MusicPromoToday (www.musicpromotoday.com) began by connecting with independent artists and recognized Grammy nominated artists to promote the artists videos and social links. This opportunity led to independent artists, record labels, and partnerships with industry leaders and more recognized artists.

Today, the agency is one of the most efficient music marketing and promotion agencies in North America with over a decade of experience. MusicPromoToday builds promotional campaigns for artists and labels to grow their audience, engage with their fans, and reach new milestones. The company goes beyond digital marketing and fuels every fully customized marketing strategy with insights and data that bring precise and measurable results. The agency serves artists, labels, and the brands that support them in going viral, building a loyal fanbase, and having their message heard all around the world.

MusicPromoToday was awarded the prestigious Agency Of The Year, Creative Agency by Manhattan Awards in 2017 and 2018. The company has office locations in New York, Los Angeles and Montreal, Canada.

Chiyuan Deng, Chief Executive Officer of AB International Group, stated, We are pleased to announce this transformative acquisition, which we expect will add broad capabilities to our operations and technology platforms. MusicPromoToday has established itself as a true leader in the social media space by supporting artists and creative minds. This acquisition, if consummated, marks a major milestone for our company and builds on our recent progress. We believe that MusicPromoTodays intellectual property is highly complementary to our technology and the combined companies will work to advance a robust commercial and development product portfolio.

About AB International Group Corp.

AB International Group Corp. is an intellectual property (IP) and movie investment and licensing firm, focused on acquisitions and development of various intellectual property. We are engaged to acquisition and distribution of movies. The Company has a Patent License to a video synthesis and release system for mobile communications equipment, in which the technology is the subject of a utility model patent in the People's Republic of China. The Company engages highly anticipated video streaming service targeting global multi-billion dollar and growing video streaming industry. The online service will be marketed and distributed in the world under the brand name ABQQ.tv. ABQQ.tv (www.abqq.tv) is expected to generate a new and profitable revenue stream immediately following its launch derived from its hybrid subscription and advertising business model.



For additional information visit www.abqqs.com



Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" that are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements relating to changes to the Company's management team and statements relating to the Company's transformation, financial and operational performance including the acceleration of revenue and margins, and the Company's overall strategy. Because forward-looking statements inherently involve risks and uncertainties, actual future results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the possibility of business disruption, competitive uncertainties, and general economic and business conditions in AB International Groups markets as well as the other risks detailed in company filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. AB International Group undertakes no obligation to update any statements in this press release for changes that happen after the date of this release.

Details regarding the terms of the acquisition have not been released as of the release of this press release.



Investor Relations Contact:

Andrew Barwicki

516-662-9461 / Andrew@barwicki.com
Italy discusses extension of country's state of emergency amid rise in covid-19 cases since the summer.

Italy is set to extend the nation's state of emergency to help it tackle the coronavirus crisis, possibly until 31 January 2021, according to Italian news agency ANSA.

Italy's current state of emergency, which is due to expire on 15 October, was already extended from its original end date of 31 July, despite objections from the opposition which accused premier Giuseppe Conte of trying to keep too much power.

The government is now considering extending the measure until 31 January, exactly one year after it was introduced, "authoritative sources" told Italian news agency Adnkronos, following talks late on 30 September.

The move comes amid a surge in new covid-19 cases in other European countries with Italy also seeing an increase over the last month, albeit far fewer cases than France and Spain.

Italy's health undersecretary Sandra Zampa told state broadcaster RAI on 29 September that the government will "need to ask" for a further extension of the emergency measures, reports Reuters.

What is Italy's state of emergency?

The state of emergency grants special powers to national and regional authorities in tackling the fallout from the covid-19 crisis quickly, cutting through red tape to implement, modify or revoke emergency measures if and when required.

In recent days the World Health Organization (WHO) posted a video praising Italys strong and effective response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Photo credit: Daniele COSSU / Shutterstock.com.
To be moral, it is necessary to believe in God.

While this statement may be axiomatic to many American evangelicals, only three nations increasingly agree.

At the top of the list: Bulgaria.

According to a recently published survey of 34 countries by the Pew Research Center, in 2019 half of all Bulgarians said it was necessary to believe in God in order to be moral and have good values.

In 2002, only one-third of the Balkan nation agreed.

Over the years, the generation that was brought up in non-religious morality has gone, said Ivan Dimitrov, former dean of theology at Sofia University in the capital city, referring to the era when Soviet-imposed atheism dominated the Eastern European country.

A second generation is now being brought up freely in the Christian religion.

Bulgarias 17-point increase (from 33% to 50%) was rivaled only by Russia (from 26% to 37%) and Japan (from 29% to 39%).

The United States, by contrast, leads the world in decline. Though 75 percent of evangelicals still agree with the God-morality link, the overall share of Americans who say the same has decreased from 58 percent to 44 percent.

Greece was the only other surveyed European nation with a majority in agreement, at 53 percent. Germany polls at 37 percent, and the UK at 20 percent. Only 9 percent of Swedes believe God is necessary for good moral standing.

Percentages are far higher in Asia and Africa. Muslim-majority Indonesia and the Christian-majority Philippines both poll at 96 percent agreement. Nigeria, split roughly 50-50 between Christians and Muslims, polls at 93 percent.

Brazil records the highest percentage in the Western hemisphere, at 84 percent agreement. But the median score across the 34 surveyed nations shows that the God-morality tie is globally being dissolved. A slight majority (51% vs. 45%) say that God is not necessary.

Why then is Bulgaria on such a distinct rise?

There was an ethical vacuum, said Archimandrite Nikanor, abbot of Gigintsi Bulgarian Orthodox Monastery.

Three-quarters of Bulgarians identify as Orthodox Christians. Muslims number 10 percent, while 12 percent either declare no religion or do not specify one.

Following the collapse of Communism in 1989, the country experienced a general euphoria, Nikanor said. There was an increasing interest in religion, along with newfound freedom in religious expression. This coincided with Bulgarias transition to democracy and its 2007 integration into the European Union.

A national Christian renaissance witnessed the renovation of church parishes and the giving of charity. Theological schools saw a surge in enrollment, with increasing numbers enriching their knowledge and spirituality by studying abroad.

Many people [now] believe that morality is based on the commandments of God, meaning religion, said Nikanor.

But while God requires morality, it does not imply a code of everyday behavior.

The abbot made this distinction to emphasize the centrality of love toward God and neighbor. But while belief in the God-morality tie is increasing, the marks of everyday religious behavior are not.

According to a 2017 Pew Research survey on religious belief and national belonging in central and eastern Europe, only 15 percent of Bulgarian Christians pray daily. A further 15 percent take Communion, while 17 percent follow prescribed fasts. But only 5 percent read the Bible and attend church weekly.

Nikanor said that Bulgarians mostly go to church for help when sick or in crisis. Dimitrov said that, traditionally, Orthodox Bulgarians do not read the Bible.

Prior to the Communist era, these practices [apart from Bible reading] measured well the Bulgarian commitment to Christianity. But today, while icons and other religious symbols remain in the home, it is traditional folk practicespassed from generation to generation in old pagan customs associated with foods, drinks, and holiday celebrationsthat characterize majority belief.

Bulgarians do not have deep and sophisticated knowledge about Orthodox Christianity, said Nikanor, but they still associate themselves firmly with this confession.

The statistics bear this out. Among Orthodox Christians, 98 percent of parents are raising their children within the faith, and 88 percent are proud of their religious identity.

But they are not as many as before.

According to the 2011 national census, the Orthodox community has declined to its current 75 percent from a total of 86 percent in 1992.

The second post-Communist decade brought disillusionment, said Vlady Raichinov, vice president of the Bulgarian Evangelical Alliance (BEA). Political corruption, a poor economy, and disappointment with the EU led to general frustration.

And in 2012, a state commission revealed widespread collaboration between many senior Orthodox clergy and the Communist secret police. Even the former patriarch was implicated as an agent, which led to a church split until his death in 2012. [CT has explored how Christians have wrestled with the issue since the 300s.]

The 2017 Pew survey found 60 percent of Orthodox Bulgarians believed that religious institutions focus too much on money and power.

The issue of power can be seen in defending Christianity as a national identity, as a cultural heritage, and as a bulwark against immigration. Though Nikanor has pushed back against this sentiment, the Orthodox church has called on the government to prevent a further invasion of Muslim refugees.

As the early liberalizing euphoria receded, nationalist and racist groups became increasingly prominent. And the spiritual impact was seen in a rise in superstition and pseudo-church traditions, including fortune telling, witchcraft, and pilgrimage to a revived fire-walking festival dedicated to the Emperor Constantine and his mother, St. Helena.

The syncretism and overall reliance on religious identity is rejected by the Protestant community of Bulgaria, roughly 1 percent of the population. During the recent period of Orthodox decline, their numbers have increased from 42,000 to 65,000 believers.

Holy days, like Christmas and Easter, are defined by sacred fasts, eating, drinking, and family relations, said Raichinov, whose BEA gained legal status in 1998. But they have nothing to do with the biblical story of Christs birth, death, and resurrection.

Protestant growth has come through humanitarian missions among the marginalized Roma, a gypsy community that tends not to be accepted by the Orthodox, he said. Evangelistic efforts have also found limited success among ethnic Bulgarians, in particular through service to the poor, orphaned, and elderly.

But while Bulgaria has experienced the vacillations of religious freedom from the Soviet era onward to notably in 2018, it remains a world outlier in overall trajectory. Similar to Pews findings, World Values Survey researchers recently found that Bulgarias 58 percent rise in religiosity from 2007 to 2019 was second only to India and among only 5 of 49 countries to register increases.

The question will be where exactly Bulgarians locate the God-morality connection.

True morality can only be achieved from within, said Raichinov, as we allow the Spirit of God to work from the inside, out.
Some mornings after are accompanied by headaches. The ache on Wednesday came with a dose of menace in the way the aftermath of overt racial abuse often does.

Its that familiar combination of not being surprised, but still feeling shocked by the blast of contempt from a sitting American president for his fellow humans, of a commander readying his dogs to attack. That powerlessness of knowing that no amount of shouting back or naming the abuse or shaking people by the collar and asking them to wake up is going to change anything.

This was the abuse Donald Trump heaped in his shouting match  purportedly a debate  with his rival Joe Biden Tuesday night.

After moderator Chris Wallace asked the Republican nominee if he would condemn white supremacists and armed groups and Biden suggested he condemn the Proud Boys, Donald Trump said: Proud Boys. Stand back and stand by. Then he went on to blame the left wing for racial discord.

Instead of grace and dignity, Trump embodied privilege and fragility. To be clear, he stood at the combustible nexus of white privilege and white fragility.

Trump can flagrantly flout the ground rules of debate. He can stoke serious dysfunction in his country. He can bring the U.S. global image crashing down. He can threaten violence against dissenters and enable authoritarian leaders worldwide.

None of it matters. Thats white privilege right there, this ability to get away with a level of wrongdoing a non-white person has no chance of surviving.

Trumps predecessor Barack Obama was called divisive in 2013 for saying Trayvon Martin could have been my son, in reference to the teen who was shot and killed by a self-appointed neighbourhood watchman, George Zimmerman, in Florida for no credible reason at all. His sympathy so incensed some white Americans that they switched their allegiance from Obama to Trump.

Whereas Trump has no such fetters. He can be openly bigoted. Openly racist. Openly a xenophobe. None of that hampers him one bit. On the contrary, it strengthens his base and fuels white extremism elsewhere.

All lives matter chanted attendees of a white supremacist rally in Edmonton right after the debate. Of course, all lives should matter, but they dont  which is why people are underlining that point for Black lives. But this is the crux of racial discord: the rejection of theories, evidence and facts of systemic racial discrimination.

The Proud Boys  a hate group with Canadian origins  who say their goal is to fight political correctness and anti-white guilt, promptly adopted Trumps words into their logo.

What you think stand back and stand by means is irrelevant, tweeted former white supremacist Christian Picciolini. Trump knows what it means to white supremacists and so do they.

After the debate, Trumps son Donald Jr. said his father must have misspoken when he said stand by. You do you, junior. Meanwhile at a Thursday briefing White House spokeswoman Kayleigh McEnany said Trump did not misspeak.

White fragility  the extreme responses of white people on having to deal with racism  is often described as manifesting in anger, fear, and guilt, silence and avoidance. Fragility suggests feebleness. It is anything but. Its a move to keep the power, and in the hands of white extremists, its agenda turns into vicious policy-making that presents a danger to many of us.

In practice, white fragility gives rise to denial. Denial turns into resistance, turns into backlash.

The American Civil War was supposed to have ended slavery. But the backlash to reconstruction came in the form of Jim Crow laws. The laws from the Civil Rights movement were supposed to have ended segregation. But the backlash led to white flight, the creation of poor housing projects, and a pipeline to prisons where predominantly Black inmates are turned into cheap labour.

This was supposed to be a summer of reckoning of Americas original sin that has always spilled north to deadly effect. Early in September, Trump issued what was essentially an all-lives-matter executive order, banning federal contractors from conducting racial sensitivity training that addresses white privilege and critical race theory  the framework that helps understand how white supremacy operates.

The order labelled the training offensive and anti-American race and sex-stereotyping and scapegoating. On Tuesday night, Trump said anti-racism training is racist.

On Thursday, the Trump administration proposed to slash the number of refugees the U.S. could admit in 2020-21 to a maximum of 15,000. The new proposal represents an 82 per cent cut from the 85,000 limit in Obamas final year in office and comes when there are 80 million displaced people around the world. Whether or not Trumps policies are labelled a Muslim ban, admissions of Muslim refugees are down to 2,503 from approximately 38,900 in 2016, the Miami Herald reported.

None of this will matter to those who are not threatened by racism. Its against this relentlessness that anti-racist activists will be asked to conduct a civil discourse no matter how uncivil the perpetrator, to protest calmly no matter how violent the extremists, to express no frustration no matter how complicit the police, and to definitely go along with the lie that racism has been overcome.

Ive earned everything I have, a Trump voter from Illinois said on CBCs The Current on Thursday. Im sympathetic to people whove been down on their luck. His tone was neutral. His words were not. To have generations of people on welfare, I dont think is proper.

Then he said, without a hint of irony: Something were losing in the United States is respect for one another.

As I said, relentless.

Shree Paradkar is a Toronto-based columnist covering issues around race and gender for the Star. Follow her on Twitter: @ShreeParadkar

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The Hudson Estuary: A River That Flows Two Ways

The Hudson River is the defining natural feature of a major region of New York State, familiar to millions who drive across its bridges, admire its grandeur from parks and historic sites, or ride the Hudson River Line railroad. Familiar as it may be, the Hudson is more than it seems.

Take its name, for example. In 1609 Henry Hudson, an Englishman sailing for Holland's East India Company, captained a Dutch ship up this river in search of the fabled Northwest Passage. He referred to the river as the "Manhatees." Dutch colonists who followed named it "River of the Prince Mauritius" and "North River." Hudson's name wasn't applied until 1664, as England tried to justify its takeover of the region. The English argued that since the explorer was a subject of England's king, Hudson's river belonged to them, not to the Dutch.

Mahicantuck

Of course, native tribes had named the river long before Hudson's arrival. One of their names-Mahicantuck-means "great waters in constant motion" or, more loosely, "river that flows two ways." It highlights the fact that this waterway is more than a river-it is a tidal estuary, an arm of the sea where salty sea water meets fresh water running off the land.

The Hudson estuary stretches 153 miles from Troy to New York Harbor, nearly half the river's 315 mile course between Lake Tear of the Clouds in the Adirondacks and the Battery at the tip of Manhattan. The estuary feels the ocean's tidal pulse all the way to Troy. Push a stick into the beach at the water's edge, or note the water's height on a piling or rock. Check back in 20 minutes. Is the water level the same? The estuary usually has two high and two low tides in twenty-four hours. With this rise and fall come changes in the direction of flow. In general, a rising tide is accompanied by a flood current flowing north towards Troy, a falling tide by an ebb current flowing seaward.

Salty sea water also pushes up the estuary, diluted by freshwater runoff as it moves north. In years with average precipitation falling in usual seasonal patterns, spring runoff holds the leading edge of dilute sea water-the salt front-downriver in the Tappan Zee. As runoff slackens in summer, the salt front pushes northward to Newburgh Bay, and further-to Poughkeepsie-in droughts.

An Estuary's Bounty

Estuaries are among the most productive of Earth's ecosystems. Native Americans discovered the Hudson's bounty thousands of years ago; evidence of their repasts remains in heaps of oyster shells on its shores. Hudson and Dutch traders wrote of a river teeming with striped bass, herring, and giant sturgeon. More than 200 species of fish are found in the Hudson and its tributaries. The estuary's productivity is ecologically and economically valuable to much of the Atlantic Coast; key commercial and recreational species like striped bass, bluefish, and blue crab depend on nursery habitat here. Bald eagles, herons, waterfowl, and other birds feed from the river's bounty. Tidal marshes, mudflats, and other significant habitats in and along the estuary support a great diversity of life.

The region's human residents have also flourished thanks to the Hudson estuary. Its course through the Hudson Highlands, the only sea-level breach in the Appalachian Mountain Range, allowed nineteenth century engineers to realize their visions of links between seacoast and heartland. The river was a key leg in the transport of goods between New York Harbor and the Great Lakes via the Erie Canal, which made New York the Empire State. The Hudson eventually became a source of drinking water for cities, process water for industry, recreation for picnickers and boaters, and soul-stirring inspiration for artists.

Returning the River to Health

However, as population increased, the Hudson's natural resources were abused. Sewage discharges led to high bacteria counts and low oxygen levels. Valuable wetlands were filled in, scenic vistas desecrated by quarrying, millions of fish killed in cooling water intakes, and food webs contaminated by toxic chemicals. Dismayed at such abuse, citizens took action. In the late nineteenth century, New York and New Jersey residents mounted an interstate effort to preserve the Palisades cliffs. In the 1960s the battle to save Storm King Mountain in the Highlands helped found today's national environmental movement. New York voters passed a bond act for sewage cleanup in 1965; the federal Clean Water Act was enacted in 1972. These measures significantly improved water quality in the Hudson estuary. The Hudson River National Estuarine Research Reserve and other preserves were established to protect critical wetland habitat.

Today the Hudson River is one of the healthiest estuaries on the Atlantic Coast. Its rich history and striking environmental recovery have made it one of the nation's fourteen American Heritage Rivers.





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At least six missiles targeting Irbil airport in northern were intercepted Wednesday evening, a statement from the Kurdish Interior Ministry said, as diplomatic tensions between Washington and Baghdad mounted over a spate of rocket attacks targeting the US presence.

The US-led coalition maintains a troop presence on a base inside the airport. The recent attacks have, until now, exclusively targeted the heavily fortified Green Zone, the seat of the Baghdad government, and the capital's airport. Roadside bombs have also routinely targeted convoys carrying materials for the US-led coalition forces.

According to the statement, the missiles were intercepted at 8:30 pm and did not cause any major damage.

Two Kurdish officials said one of the rockets hit the headquarters of an Iranian-Kurdish opposition party banned in Iran. The officials requested anonymity in line with regulations.

The statement said the rockets were fired from a pickup truck near Bartella, south of Irbil in Nineveh province, which are areas under the purview of Brigade 30 of the Popular Mobilization Forces. The brigade is composed of ethnic Shabak militiamen.

Iraq's military said the perpetrators were terrorist groups, and that one rocket had landed close to Hasansham camp for the internally displaced.

The frequency of the attacks led to US threats last week to close its Baghdad embassy unless decisive action was taken to reign in Shiite militias suspected of launching the attacks.

Iraq's foreign minister on Wednesday said the government was taking measures to consolidate security in the Green Zone and airport.

The attack in Irbil, a rare target for rockets, is considered a serious escalation by Iraqi officials.

Kurdish officials, and former Finance Minister Hoshiyar Zebari, said the incident was yet another escalation to undermine security in the country by the same groups who are attacking the US embassy in Baghdad and its convoys. Action is needed to stop it.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Republican congressional candidate Nancy Mace released a new TV ad Wednesday featuring South Carolina Medal of Honor recipient Maj. Gen. James Livingston.

In the 30-second spot, the retired Marine Corps war hero endorses Mace over her opponent, Charleston Democratic U.S. Rep. Joe Cunningham, and highlights her accomplishments as the first female graduate of The Citadel's Corps of Cadets.

"My fellow Americans, I recognize leadership and integrity," Livingston says in the dialogue. "And that is why I am endorsing Nancy Mace. ... She did not break the glass ceiling at The Citadel. She smashed it."

Livingston goes on to call Cunningham a "soldier for" Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.

Livingston endorsed Mace ahead of the June GOP primary, but this is the first ad featuring his support.

Mara Mellstrom, a spokeswoman for Mace, didnt disclose the amount of the ad buy but said it was six figures.

Livingston, a Georgia native but long-time Mount Pleasant resident, was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions in a bloody three day battle in 1968 during the Vietnam War.

He survived being severely wounded multiple times, came back to the United States and was presented the Medal of Honor by President Richard Nixon.

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Mace's latest advertisement is a direct appeal to the military vote ahead of November in one of the most contested congressional races in the country.

Within the 1st District  which ranges from Hilton Head Island and Beaufort to Charleston and Mount Pleasant  veterans are anywhere from 8 to 12 percent of the population, according to a report from the Department of Defense.

Cunningham has also been trying to keep this voting bloc ahead of November. In July, Cunningham's campaign aired an ad featuring George Patton Pat Waters, the Republican grandson of legendary World War II Army Gen. George S. Patton, endorsing the Democratic incumbent.

Cunningham was elected in 2018, ending the streak of GOP lawmakers representing the seat for four decades. Its a district that overwhelmingly elected Donald Trump for president in 2016.

Mace, a state representative from Daniel Island, has been aiming to bring the district back in GOP control.

After Cunningham and Mace held their first televised debate this week, The Cook Political Report  an independent online newsletter that analyzes elections  switched the seat from being a "toss up" to "leaning Democratic."

Since the last Federal Election filing in June, more than $6 million had been raised by both campaigns.

So far, Cunningham has more than $3 million in cash on hand. Mace, by comparison, has a little more than $740,000.
The more challenging role of local elected officials is to ask hard questions, to take actions based on integrity more than popularity, to give staff the support and resources they deserve while holding them accountable for their actions, and to serve the community with distinction, honesty, integrity and civility, Biagi said. If given the opportunity to serve the 6th Ward as its alderman, I plan to bring those qualities to the City Council.
BUDAPEST (Reuters) - Hungary will extend its border closures to fight the spread of the coronavirus pandemic until the end of October, Prime Minister Viktor Orbans cabinet chief said on Thursday.

Hungary closed its borders to foreigners on Sept. 1 and decided that Hungarians returning to the country from abroad have to go into quarantine.

Hungary recorded 27,309 cases of coronavirus with 781 deaths as of Thursday, with new cases spiking in recent weeks.

(Reporting by Anita Komuves; Editing by Alison Williams)
This is a topic that we know that teachers and families want a complete understanding of how it works, Bowser said Monday. When we talk about our schedule for Nov. 9 we want to have sample language that they will receive in the event  if there is an event  of a case at their school. It will be all outlined.
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo hailed Thursday an agreement under which Israel and Lebanon will discuss their disputed maritime and land borders.

"This historic agreement between the two parties was brokered by the United States and is the result of nearly three years of intense diplomatic engagement" by US diplomats, Pompeo said in a statement.

"Today's announcement is a vital step forward that serves the interests of Lebanon and Israel, of the region, and of the United States," he added.

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Breonna Taylor, 26, was shot and killed by Louisville police in March

Cops investigating Breonna Taylor's ex-boyfriend as part of a drugs probe were repeatedly told that she was not receiving suspicious packages for him at her home, but they still listed it in their search warrant and raided it.

Taylor was shot and killed as three cops returned fire on her boyfriend, Kenneth Walker, who thought they were burglars during the March raid.

The cops had broken down her door with a battering ram in the middle of the night as part of an investigation into her previous boyfriend, Jamarcus Glover.

According to the cops, Taylor's apartment in Louisville, Kentucky, was crucial to the investigation so it was a warranted raid. They say that Glover was picking up packages at the property earlier in the year and then driving to a known 'drug house.'

However a newly released report reveals that officers asked the postal service whether or not any suspicious packages were being sent to Taylor's home and were told no.

Jamarcus Glover, the ex-boyfriend police were investigating. Kenneth Walker, Taylor's boyfriend who was with her the night she died

They still insisted on raiding it, even though Taylor had been described as a 'soft target' beforehand.

The police wanted to know if Glover was sending any packages to Taylor's apartment that might have been relevant to their drug investigation, according to WDRB.

He had told them that he had shoes delivered to the address in January.

Recordings of police interviews about the investigation will be released on Friday.

Kentucky AG Daniel Cameron had tried to have the release delayed by a week, claiming he needed more time to redact witness names.

The judge gave him until Friday.

It came after a juror in the case filed a motion to have all of the evidence released.

On Tuesday night, Cameron sought to defend himself ahead of the release of records that the grand jury was shown.

He has been accused by an unidentified juror of publicly misrepresenting the incident with his submission of evidence and by recommending that only one of the cops should be charged.

Neither Jonathan Mattingly (left) nor Myles Cosgrove (right) have been charged over Taylor's death

On Wednesday, his staff claimed they needed more time to redact some of the names involved. They want another week to complete their redactions.

Brett Hankison is the only cop out of the three who was charged. He was charged with wanton endangerment for a bullet that went into Taylor's neighbor's home

The evidence includes statements from a neighbor who first claimed to have heard the cops announce themselves but then changed their story to say that they didn't.

The evidence also includes 'recordings' but it's unclear if those are bodycam recordings or other types of footage.

On Monday, a juror filed a motion earlier this week to have all of the evidence released to the public. They say they are in turmoil over the fact that Cameron's office only recommended that one of the cops should be charged with wanton endangerment, letting the two others completely off the hook, and without charging any of them with murder.

Taylor was shot and killed in her home in Louisville in March after three cops - Jonathan Mattingly, Brett Hankison, and Myles Cosgrove - opened fire on her apartment, where she was asleep with her boyfriend.

They were executing a no-knock search warrant for her apartment that was part of a drug trafficking probe into her ex-boyfriend, Jamarcus Glover, at the time.

Taylor's boyfriend at the time of her death, Kenneth Walker, awoke to the officers breaking down the door with a battering ram and opened fire. He says they did not announce themselves. The cops returned fire and Taylor was killed in the crossfire.

Despite global outrage over the killing - one of several this year that have highlighted police brutality against black Americans and sparked protests worldwide - nothing was done to charge the officers until last week when, after a grand jury was convened, Hankison was indicted.

Cameron's office say that the two others are justified in returning fire and killing her because Walker opened fire first.

Daniel Cameron on Tuesday night sought to defend himself ahead of the release of records that the grand jury was shown. He has been accused by an unidentified juror of publicly misrepresenting the case

In an interview on Tuesday night, Cameron said that the jury should have brought murder charges against the other two cops if they wanted to but that his office didn't because they would never have been able to prove them at trial.

'Basically your question is about whether we recommended any murder charges against Cosgrove and Mattingly.

'The answer is no. Ultimately, our judgement is that the charge that we could prove at trial beyond a reasonable doubt was for wanton endangerment against Hankison.

'They are an independent body.

'If they wanted to make an assessment about different charges, they could have done that.

'But our recommendation was that (Jonathan) Mattingly and (Myles) Cosgrove were justified in their acts and their conduct,' he told WDRB TV.

The juror spoke through their lawyer to say they were never given the option to charge the other two cops and that they were in 'turmoil' over the outcome.

'This is something where the juror is not seeking any fame, any acclaim, any money,' their attorney, Kevin M. Glogower, told The New York Times on Tuesday.
Real estate investment firm, Cardone Capital, launches Cardone Fund X. This fund is aimed at acquiring income-producing multifamily assets priced below market value.

Grant Cardone

Real estate investment firm, Cardone Capital, launches Cardone Fund X. This fund is aimed at acquiring income-producing multifamily assets priced below market value.

Real estate investment firm, Cardone Capital, launches Cardone Fund X. This fund is aimed at acquiring income-producing multifamily assets priced below market value.

Grant Cardone

Real estate investment firm, Cardone Capital LLC, announces the launch of Cardone Fund X.

Real estate investment firm, Cardone Capital LLC, announces the launch of Cardone Fund X.

Miami, FL, Oct. 01, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- September 22, 2020 -- Real estate investment firm, Cardone Capital LLC, announces the launch of Cardone Fund X. This is the latest of their new opportunity funds. These funds are aimed at purchasing income-producing multifamily assets in high-growth markets that are priced under market value.

Cardone Fund X is a private offering using rule 506(c) of Regulation D. This type of offering allows any individual to participate as long as they are an accredited investor.

Grant Cardone, Founder and CEO of Cardone Capital, said This fund, unlike some of my previous funds, will be focused on more opportunistic assets created from the Covid crisis and shutdown.

The fund has a target raise of $50M - $60M. Cardone says theyre targeting properties in high growth markets throughout the US. Im targeting areas that have a high net population gain. These are the areas that will continue to have the highest demand for apartments and will give us the most appreciation.

Early investors are offered an 80/20 split on cash and appreciation if their funds are in before the property is identified.

Cardone adds Our immediate impetus is on apartment quality real estate to add to our current portfolio, and we are in negotiations on properties at this time.

The minimum Investment for Fund X is $250,000 with a max of $10M by any one investor or LLC.

Cardone Capitals latest acquisition was a 553-unit multifamily property in Fort Lauderdale. This property was in such high demand the fund was oversubscribed by millions of dollars in less than 62 days.

Story continues

Cardone Capital currently has $1.9 billion in assets under management, which is expected to increase to over $2 billion once Fund X closes. Cardone said This will be a huge milestone for us, and Im so grateful to our investors who helped get us here.

The firms assets under management currently include 26 properties with a total of 8,275 units. These properties are located in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Texas and Maryland.



About Grant Cardone

CEO of Cardone Capital, international speaker, entrepreneur, author of The 10X Rule and creator of 21 best-selling business programs, Grant Cardone owns and operates seven privately held companies and a $1.9 billion portfolio of multifamily properties. Named the #1 marketer to watch by Forbes Magazine, Cardone is also the founder of the The 10X Movement and The 10X Growth Conference, the worlds largest business and entrepreneur conference.

About Cardone Capital

Cardone Capital acquires and manages income producing class A multifamily properties, which provide investment vehicles for accredited investors through Regulation D offerings and for non-accredited investors through Regulation A offerings. To date, the company has raised over $425M from retail investors through crowdfunding.





For more information on Cardone Fund X visit https://cardonecapital.com

Ryan Tseko

Executive Vice President

+1 833-822-7435

Ryan@cardonecapital.com

https://cardonecapital.com

This news has been published for Cardone Capital. Kiss PR Brand Story Press Release News Desk was not involved in the creation of this content. For any service, please contact https://story.kisspr.com.

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EDITORS NOTE: This is the third in a three part series looking at the dangers of Lake Michigan. Part one focused on why Lake Michigan is so dangerous, and how to avoid a drowning incident. Part looked at the fact that while Michigan's lakeshore communities draw visitors nationwide, few actively prevent people from entering the water during unsafe conditions.

BENZIE COUNTY  The Great Lakes have claimed many lives throughout history, and sometimes, what slips under the water doesn't come back up for years, if it comes back up at all.

And according to an Associated Press story that cited Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project data, drownings in Lake Michigan have reached record levels with at least 53 people dead so far this year.

One of the most famous examples of the lakes keeping their dead is the wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, which sank during a storm on Lake Superior in 1975 near Whitefish Bay. Of her 29 crew members, none were ever found.

On May 12, 2019, a plane with two occupants disappeared about four miles off the coast of Frankfort after the pilot had reported the engine died and radio control advised him to try to reach the Frankfort Dow Memorial Airport.

The plane was eventually found at the bottom of the lake on May 23, 2019, but the bodies of its occupants, Emanuel Manos, 53, of Monroe, and Randal Dippold, 65, of Perry, Michigan, were not found with the plane. On May 29, 2019, Manos' body was found in 523 feet of water.

Dippold has yet to be found, despite an effort by the internationally-known water search and recovery organization, Bruce's Legacy, spending several days looking for Dippold in August 2019.

In 2016, Tyler Spink, 21, of Kalkaska, and his friend were kayaking in Platte Bay when the weather turned rough. Both kayakers capsized and the pair swam toward shore. Unfortunately, Spink did not make it. His body was eventually found by Bruce's Legacy in July 2018, 22 months after he had gone under.

Chris Oosee, a lieutenant with the Grand Traverse County Sheriff's Office, said without eyewitnesses, it can be hard to pinpoint where somebody's last location was before slipping under the waves.

"It is difficult to determine the last known location in Lake Michigan unless there is an eyewitness," Oosee said. "It is such a vast area of water. Generally, we might be able to find debris on the surface, or some evidence on shore. Then we can calculate wind speed, time and the currents in the water."

Oosee said the varying depth of the lakes, as well as the how deep the lake can actually get, also hampers recovery efforts.

"It can drop off so fast," he said. "The depths make it hard to run equipment in an efficient manner. In the shallow water, it is a lot easier to get more equipment in an area."

Equipment used by the Grand Traverse Mutual Aid Dive Team includes side scanning sonar and a remotely operated vehicle, which uses an umbilical cord, which can make things difficult in deep water.

Even in shallow water where the last location of the missing person is known, it can still be difficult to recover a body.

On Sept. 21, a 12-year-old boy was swept off the pier at Frankfort and drowned. Even though family members with him knew where he went in, weather conditions made the search for him difficult. It wasn't until Sept. 23 that he was found in 10 feet of water by the Grand Traverse Dive Team.

"It was so rough in area; the sonar worked well, but the visibility was less than a foot in the water," Oosee said. "We were trying to eliminate every point of interest we saw on the sonar, but it was difficult, because the currents moved the ROV, and it was hard to get a good surface pattern to do a thorough search."

Michigan State Police Sgt. Richard Capling said that things don't always stay put when they go under, and there are many objects in the lake that can look like something to investigate.

"Lake Michigan is a big body of water, and just like any body of water, when they fall in, that might not be where they end up," Capling said. "There are currents, and things like a body or a plane move. The lake is very deep, and things can be obscured. The sonar tries to pick out objects, and sometimes, when it picks them out, they can be misleading. There are things down in the water that can look like a body. Everything depends on what divers can see and the conditions of the water at the time."

RELATED:

Part one: What makes Lake Michigan so dangerous?

Part two: Lake Michigan communities and drownings
Today, SkinCeuticals adds Azelaic Acid to the roster of Custom D.O.S.E active booster blends. Azelaic acid has been shown to offer a wide variety of benefits for the skin, including improvement in the appearance of skin discoloration and skin clarity. Available in Custom D.O.S.E formulations at 5% and 12%, azelaic acid, is elevated by its ability to simultaneously improve clarity, uneven skin tone, and reduce the appearance of imperfections. Our 8-week clinical study demonstrated 42% improvement in skin clarity 1 .

"Azelaic acid is a great addition to Custom D.O.S.E, it's a true multi-tasker," says Dr. Sarah Sawyer, SkinCeuticals Partner Physician. "Azelaic acid can be used for gentle correction of imperfections and helps overall skin clarity and uneven skin tone."

When it comes to improving clarity, multi-targeting through different ingredients and pathways is often encouraged. Azelaic acid allows for 28 new and unique combinations bringing the total possible Custom D.O.S.E formula combinations to 77.

This fall, CUSTOM D.O.S.E azelaic acid will be available in select U.S. physician offices nationwide. For more information, visit www.skinceuticals.com/customdose.

ABOUT SKINCEUTICALS

Founded in Dallas, TX in 1997, SkinCeuticals discovers, develops and delivers an advanced line of scientifically backed cosmeceutical treatments. As leaders in antioxidant and sun protection technology, SkinCeuticals products have been shown to dramatically improve skin health by protecting skin from environmental damage and visibly improving skin clarity, tone, and texture to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. For more information, visit the brand on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, or at www.skinceuticals.com.

1Protocol: 8 week study, 52 participants, EB369 applied twice daily with Gentle Cleanser, Daily Moisture moisturizer and Light Moisture UV Defense

CONTACT

[email protected]

SOURCE SkinCeuticals

Related Links

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Google has long had a frenemy position with regards to the world of news: It can direct a lot of traffic to online publishers, but that's only if people bother to click on links after getting the gist of the story from Google itself (and that's before considering Google's AMP approach on mobile that keeps users on Google URLs after they click). Publications built around advertising have felt beholden to the search and ad giant, leading those that have survived over the years to try to forge alternative revenue models around paid content, events and more to offset that dependency.

Now Google is offering another, complementary, option to these publishers, or at least some of them.

Today the company unveiled its latest effort to claw back more credibility in the news publishing world, launching the Google News Showcase. Sundar Pichai, CEO of the search giant, said in a blog post that it would collectively pay some $1 billion to news publishers in licensing fees "to create and curate high-quality content" for new story panels that will appear on Google News. Initially, these will appear on Android devices and eventually also on Google News on iOS.

The new initiative is going live today, after it was initially unveiled by Google in broad strokes earlier this summer.

Google News Showcase is rolling out first in Germany and Brazil before expanding to other markets, according to Pichai. The company has already inked deals with 200 publications in Germany, Brazil, Argentina, Canada, the U.K. and Australia. The first publications to launch will be Der Spiegel, Stern, Die Zeit, Folha de S.Paulo,Band, Infobae, El Litoral, GZH, WAZ and SooToday. India, Belgium and the Netherlands will be next on the list for expansion after the other countries go live, Pichai said.

As you can see here, Google News Showcase seems primarily to be focused on how news is consumed on mobile devices rather than desktop computers.

Story continues

Like Apple with its efforts around Apple News, as a major mobile platform operator Google has worked on a number of ways to play nice with publishers and the news publishing industry over the years, some on its own steam and some in response to pressure from outside.

They have included funding local news research initiatives; its $300 million news initiative that includes providing grants to journalists and journals, as well as research; emergency grants to publications in hot water; and building tools to help journalists do their work.

Picking Germany as one of the first markets to roll this out is notable, given that publishers in the country were involved in a years-long lawsuit over copyright fees related to how their content was repurposed in Google.

Google ultimately won that case in court, but arguably, it didn't win in the court of public opinion. Given that Google continues to face a lot of antitrust scrutiny in Europe and elsewhere, it's important that it works (or at least appear to work!) on rehabilitating its image as too-powerful and uninterested in the fate of institutions that are central to how democratic society works -- like the free press.

As Pichai notes, this latest effort is different from what Google has built before because it's based on publishers doing the curating and creating themselves.

Google is infamous for starting a lot of projects, rolling them out and then abandoning them when they fail to get market traction. With that understanding, and knowing that it's one of the biggest companies in the world (not just in tech) it has in theory committed to the Showcase for three years, but Pichai said the plan is for it to "extend beyond the initial three years," with the company "focused on contributing to the overall sustainability of our news partners around the world."

It's not clear how much money individual publishers will make out of this initiative, nor how or if it could be used to drive business models that don't cut Google in on the action. The latter has been a prime focus for many publishers for the last several years. At best, similar to Apple News, it could help publishers hedge their bets or even bolster them (as in the case of paywalls and driving people to using them), rather than cannibalize those other efforts. Google, at the least, seems aware of the stakes and seems to argue that it's not the only reason publishers are feeling the heat.

"The business model for newspapersbased on ads and subscription revenuehas been evolving for more than a century as audiences have turned to other sources for news, including radio, television and later, the proliferation of cable television and satellite radio," wrote Pichai. "The internet has been the latest shift, and it certainly wont be the last. Alongside other companies, governments and civic societies, we want to play our part by helping journalism in the 21st century not just survive, but thrive."
Admission: Nichola Mallon revealed the advice in response to an Assembly question

Warning: Paul Givan said the enforcement of mask rules was an issue across society

People who cannot wear coverings for medical reasons and children under 13 are exempt from wearing face masks on public transport.

Translink staff have been ordered to allow passengers to travel on buses and trains even if they refuse to wear a face mask without a reasonable excuse.

Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon made the admission when asked by DUP MLA Paul Givan what support was being provided to transport workers to enforce the mandatory wearing of coverings.

Speaking during yesterday's Covid-19 briefing, Health Minister Robin Swann said the Executive would be discussing an increase in where and when face masks should be worn.

The wearing of coverings on buses, trains, ferries and in transport stations became compulsory in Northern Ireland in July.

People who cannot wear coverings for medical reasons and children under 13 are exempt.

The rule does not apply to the outdoor areas of ferries or to school transport.

Ms Mallon told Mr Givan that the approach adopted by her department and Translink was one of "education, engagement and encouragement first", with the aim of achieving high rates of compliance rather than high rates of enforcement.

Translink staff must remind customers of their legal obligation to wear a face covering and actively encourage passengers to wear appropriate masks.

However, if a passenger refuses to wear one, Translink has advised staff to allow them to travel anyway.

The staff member must note the service, time and boarding point of that passenger and report the incident to their control or inspector team as soon as reasonably possible.

"This information helps Translink identify issues and services on which it needs to raise awareness and, if necessary, engage with the PSNI to assist with enforcement and, where appropriate, issue a fixed-penalty notice," explained the Infrastructure Minister.

"Translink is also carrying a new advertising campaign to remind passengers of the need to maintain social distancing, practise good hand hygiene, the need to wear face coverings and the use of contactless ticketing."

Lagan Valley MLA Mr Givan said that the enforcement of mask-wearing was not just an issue on public transport but across society.

"It's something I asked the Chief Constable last week at the justice committee - how many penalty notices have been issued for not wearing face masks? The answer was zero," he added.

"The Chief Constable went on to elaborate (on) the approach they have been taking because of the range of exemptions that exist and where they have to balance their policing priorities.

"That does create the wider issue of the enforceability of these regulations.

"That's where you're appealing to people's better nature to work with the Government in the greater interests of what we're trying to achieve."

Translink's guidance comes after Asda began using 'safety marshals' at all its Northern Ireland stores to ensure that customers wear face coverings as they enter supermarkets.

The stricter enforcement policy means that anyone who is spotted without a face mask will be offered a pack of disposable ones which they must then buy at the end of their shop.
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

Hack attempts are on the riseas alwayswith ransomware the most common now, according to Microsoft.

In a new report on "digital defense," Microsoft says it blocked over 13 billion malicious and suspicious emails in the last year, and more than 1 billion of them were URLs set up for to launch phishing credentials attack.

Phishing is when emails or texts are sent to people with normal looking links that in fact are toxic, and let the hacker take over your system.

Attackers often send emails imitating top brands, noted Microsoft. The top spoofed brands used in these attacks were Microsoft, UPS, Amazon, Apple and Zoom.

Hackers "have rapidly increased in sophistication over the past year, using techniques that make them harder to spot and that threaten even the savviest targets," the report says. "For example, nation-state actors are engaging in new reconnaissance techniques that increase their chances of compromising high-value targets, criminal groups targeting businesses have moved their infrastructure to the cloud to hide among legitimate services, and attackers have developed new ways to scour the internet for systems vulnerable to ransomware."

Microsoft sees ransomware, the natural next step for phishing, as a major growing threat. This is when the hacker hijacks your system, and won't let you back in unless you pay the ransom fee.

Attackers have taken advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic to reduce their "dwell time" within a victim's system, the report adds, compromising and exfiltrating data or ransoming quickly. Attackers were under the impression that there would be an increased willingness to pay as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.

Some cybercriminals have gotten so good at what they do that they were able to take over an entire network in 45 minutes, says Microsoft.

What to do?

People need to be diligent about their online security, and take password strength more seriously. "Given the frequency of passwords being guessed, phished, stolen with malware or reused, it's critical for people to pair passwords with some second form of strong credential," Microsoft says.

Organizations need to mandate the use of two-factor authentication for employees, which requires typing in the password twice, the tech giant recommends..

(c)2020 U.S. Today

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Patna, Oct 1 : The filing of nomination papers for the Assembly elections in Bihar began on Thursday though suspense continued over the seat-sharing formula among the two major alliances in the state -- the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the Opposition Grand Alliance (Mahagathbandhan).

The Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) which is part of the NDA is posing a hurdle to seat-sharing in the alliance. On the other hand the RJD, the major party in the Grand Alliance, is not able or is unwilling to fulfil the demand of the Congress in the distribution of seats in the Mahagathbandhan.

For the last three decades, the regional parties have been supporting the national parties to come to power in Bihar. In such a situation the national parties are ready to keep the smaller and regional parties in good humour.

According to official data both the national parties, the BJP and the Congress, have not been able to cross the 100-seat mark in any Assembly election in Bihar since 1990.

During the last Bihar Assembly election in 2015, the Congress could be part of the government only with the help of both the Janata Dal United and the Rashtriya Janata Dal. Following the JD-U's exit from the Opposition Grand Alliance, JD-U supremo Nitish Kumar formed the government with the help of the BJP.

In the 2015 Assembly polls, the Congress had to remain content with 27 seats while the BJP won only 53 seats.

Looking at the 2010 Bihar Assembly election results, the BJP had the support of the JD-U as an alliance partner with the JD-U bagging 115 seats and the BJP 91 to hold the reins of Bihar.

The same political scenario was there in the 2005 Assembly elections, too, where the BJP came to power with the support of the JD-U.

In the 2000 Bihar state polls, the RJD came to power by registering a win on more than half of the 243 assembly seats. In the 1995 Bihar Assembly elections, the Congress won only 29 seats while the BJP got 41. Earlier, in the 1990 Assembly polls both the national parties had to settle for less than 100 seats each.

Political critic Santosh Singh says it was during the 1989 Bhagalpur riots that the last nail was driven in the coffin of the Congress as the minorities were enraged by the riots. At that time, the BJP was just coming into its own in Bihar.

The Congress has since been on the 'backfoot' while the BJP though in power at the Centre continues playing second fiddle to the JD-U in Bihar, adds Singh.

"Last year the NDA won 39 of 40 seats in the Lok Sabha elections from Bihar in which 17 BJP candidates were fielded and all emerged victorious. Despite this the BJP dare not contest the Bihar assembly elections on its own this year," Singh said.

If the NDA alliance partners -- the JD-U and the BJP -- contest on an equal number of seats in this election, it will be interesting to see if a national party like the BJP can consolidate its position in Bihar, Singh added.
Gulaal and Dev D director Anurag Kashyap was questioned by the Versova Police today. Kashyap was summoned on Wednesday in connection with a sexual harassment case filed against him by an actress.

The director's lawyer, Priyanka Khimani, accompanied him when he arrived at the Versova police station, Mumbai. Last week, an actress had accused the film director of sexual assault. The filmmaker quashed those allegations as baseless and said he would file a defamation case against her.

Also read: Anurag Kashyap summoned by Mumbai Police over sexual harassment allegation

Kashyap's lawyer had also released a statement on his behalf which he had shared on Twitter. The lawyer dismissed these allegations as 'baseless' and the statement added that a movement as imperative as me too has been co-opted for vested interests and "seek to unconscionably trade upon the pain and trauma of actual victims of sexual harassment and abuse."

The actress had registered an FIR against Kashyap under sections of rape, wrongful restrain, wrongful confinement and outraging a woman's modesty. She, along with the Rajya Sabha MP Ramdas Atahwale, met Maharashtra governor Bhagat Singh Koshiyari on Tuesday, seeking action against the director. Both of them also met the Mumbai Joint Commissioner of Police, Law and Order, Vishwas Nangre Patil, seeking protection for the actor.

Also read: Why Gulshan Grover's visa to Morocco was rejected because of Shah Rukh Khan

Meanwhile, Anurag Kashyap has received the support of several B-town celebs like Taapsee Pannu, Tisca Chopra, director Hansal Mehta, late Irrfan Khan's son Babil. His former spouses, Kalki Koechlin and Arti Bajaj have also come out in his support.

Also read: IPL 2020: Robin Uthappa applies saliva on ball during Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders match
Community Action Team or "CAT-1" Lt. Kenneth Legions shows some the supplies the unit has like leashes and pet carriers. The Fire Department, Office of Emergency Management and Red Paw announced transition plans regarding pet-related emergency response services. Read more

Red Paw Emergency Relief, the organization that has saved thousands of pets from Philadelphia homes destroyed by fires, floods, and explosions, will not shut down as previously planned, but instead will train a team of Philadelphia firefighters to take over its services, Fire Commissioner Adam Thiel announced Thursday.

As someone who donates to Red Paw every month from my own paycheck, I am very aware of the unique asset this organization has been to the city of Philadelphia, Thiel said at a news conference. And Im pleased that Red Paw will continue to be one of our critical partners.

Red Paw, founded by Philadelphia firefighter Jennifer Leary in 2011, announced in August that it would shut down on Oct. 1 after its model as an outside organization collaborating with the city proved unsustainable. The nonprofit, which operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, providing emergency pet services to homeowners affected by disaster, has also been experiencing staffing shortages due to the pandemic and was excluded from a dire city budget.

Now, Red Paw plans to become a foundation to provide food and supplies, pay for pet-friendly hotel fees, and raise funds for critical care for residents' pets who have been displaced by disasters.

Over the next month, the organization will provide training, supplies, and other support to the Fire Departments Community Action Team, a team of firefighters who have traditionally assisted residents displaced by fires. These members will take over Red Paws role by caring for city residents' pets in disasters.

The Fire Department is not receiving any additional funding for this initiative, said Kathy Matheson, a spokesperson for the department, but Red Paw has donated leads and carriers to help the team get started. The services will be a group effort amongthe Fire Department, Office of Emergency Management, and Red Cross.

We are doing something that no other city is doing, said Lori Albright, who volunteers as Red Paws chief operating officer. The services that we provide will not go anywhere.

Since its founding, Red Paw has saved more than 8,000 pets  cats, dogs, iguanas, birds, snakes  from disaster. The program had operated relatively inexpensively by training firefighters how to search for and handle pets. Red Paw would then provide a staffer on site with carriers to hold the pets and later reunite them with their family, as well as provide food and supplies and cover pet hotel fees through donations.
This is the Independence Day address by his Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on the occasion of Nigerias 60th Independence anniversary today, October 1, 2020.

In his speech the President explained how other oil producing countries sells petrol at a higher price than Nigeria and why it makes no sense for Nigeria to continue selling at a cheaper price. The speech;

Fellow Nigerians

I speak to you today as your President and fellow citizen on this epoch occasion of our countrys 60th independence Anniversary. As President, I wish to renew my appreciation to Nigerians for entrusting me with your hopes and aspirations for a better and greater Nigeria.

2. Today, it is my unique privilege to re-commit myself to the service of this great country of great people with profound diversities and opportunities. We are bound by destiny to be the largest and greatest black nation on earth.

3. At this stage in our nationhood it is important that we reflect how we got here to enable us work TOGETHER to get to where we aspire to be as a strong indivisible nation, united in hope and equal in opportunity.

4. On October 1st 1960 when Prime Minister Alhaji Abubakar Tafawa Balewa received the constitutional instruments symbolizing Nigerias independence, he expressed his wish that having acquired our rightful status as an independent sovereign nation, history would record that the building of our nation proceeded at the wisest pace.

5. This optimism was anchored on the peaceful planning, full and open consultation and harmonious cooperation with the different groups which culminated in Nigeria emerging as a country without bitterness and bloodshed.

6. Our founding fathers understood the imperative of structuring a National identity using the power of the state and worked towards unification of Nigerians in a politically stable and viable entity.

7. That philosophy guided the foundation that was laid for our young nation of 45 million people with an urban population of approximately 7million occupying an area of 910,768 square kilometers. These demographics led to development challenges for which major efforts were made to overcome.

8. Today, we grapple with multiple challenges with a population exceeding 200million occupying the same land mass but 52% residing in urban areas.

9. Sixty years of nationhood provides an opportunity to ask ourselves questions on the extent to which we have sustained the aspirations of our founding fathers. Where did we do the right things? Are we on course? If not where did we stray and how can we remedy and retrace our steps?

10. Upon attaining independence, Nigerias growth trajectory was anchored on policies and programmes that positively impacted on all sectors of the economy. However, this journey was cut short by the 30-months of civil war.

11. We came out of the civil war with a focus on reconstruction, rehabilitation and reconciliation that enabled the country to put in place world-class development structures and a strengthened public service that well served the government. This positive trajectory continued with a return to democratic government which was truncated by another round of military rule.

12. For a cumulative 29 of our 60 years existence as a nation, we have been under military rule.

13. My summary of our journey so far as a nation is necessary to appropriately chart where we need to go and how to get there TOGETHER.

14. Today, I am aware that our economy along with every single economy in the world is in crisis. We still face security challenges in parts of the country, while our society suffers from a high loss of moral rectitude which is driven by unbridled craving for political control.

15. An underlying cause of most of the problems we have faced as a nation is our consistent harping on artificially contrived fault-lines that we have harboured and allowed unnecessarily to fester.

16. In addition, institutions such as civil service, police, the judiciary, the military all suffered from a general decline.

17. We need to begin a sincere process of national healing and this anniversary presents a genuine opportunity to eliminate old and outworn perceptions that are always put to test in the lie they always are.

18. The stereotype of thinking of ourselves as coming from one part of the country before seeing ourselves as Nigerians is a key starting point to project us on the road to our deserved nations evolution and integration.

19. To start this healing process, we are already blessed with the most important asset any nation requires for such  OUR PEOPLE  and this has manifested globally in the exploits of Nigerians in many fields.

20. It has been demonstrated time and time again that Nigerians in the diaspora frequently excel in science, technology, medicine, sports, arts and many other fields.

21. Similarly, the creativity, ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Nigerian at home have resulted in globally recognized endeavours.

22. I am convinced that if we pursue our aspirations TOGETHER we would be able to achieve whatever we desire. That informed our adopting the theme TOGETHER to mark this epochal event.

23. Together we can change our condition for the better and more importantly, together we can do much more for ourselves and for our country.

24. I chose the path of self-reflection because this is what I do on a daily basis and I must confess that at most times, I always felt the need for a collective reflection as I know that the foundation for a solid future which this administration is laying can only be sustainable if there is a collective commitment by Nigerians.

25. Nigeria is not a country for Mr. President, any ruling or opposition party but a country for all of us and we must play our part, irrespective of challenges we face, to make this country what we desire.

26. To achieve this, we must focus our minds, TOGETHER as a people, on ways of resolving the identified critical challenges that underlie our present state. These include:

a. Evolving and sustaining a democratic culture that leaves power in the hands of the people;

b. Supporting the enthronement of the rule of law, demanding accountability of elected representatives and contributing to good governance;

c. Increasing our commitment to peaceful co-existence in a peaceful, secure and united Nigeria;

d. Harnessing and Optimizing our tremendous human and natural resources to attain our goal of being in the top twenty economies of the world and in the process;

e. Lifting 100 million Nigerians out of poverty in 10 years;

f. Strengthening institutions to make them stronger in protecting National Interests; and

g. Imbibing tolerance in diversity.

27. I am a firm believer in transparent, free, fair and credible elections as has been demonstrated during my period as a democratically elected President.

28. The recent build-up and eventual outcome of the Edo State elections should encourage Nigerians that it is my commitment to bequeath to this country processes and procedures that would guarantee that the peoples votes count.

29. The problems with our electoral process are mainly human induced as desperate desire for power leads to desperate attempts to gain power and office.

30. Democracy, the world over and as I am pursuing in Nigeria, recognizes the power of the people. However, if some constituencies choose to bargain off their power, they should be prepared for denial of their rights.

31. This call is made more urgent if we realise that even after a transparent, free, fair and credible election, desperation leads to compromising the judiciary to upturn legitimate decisions of the people.

32. It is necessary to, therefore support the enthronement of the rule of law by avoiding actions which compromise the judiciary.

33. Fellow Nigerians, our history has shown that we are a people that have the capacity to live peacefully with one another.

34. As a government, we remain committed to our constitutional oath of securing the lives and properties of the citizenry. I, however, call on the citizenry to also support government by providing the necessary community level intelligence in addressing these challenges.

35. In moving forward together, it is important to strengthen our economy to provide sustainable means of livelihood for as many Nigerians as possible so as to eradicate absolute poverty from our midst.

36. I want to re-emphasize my dedication and commitment, a dedication and commitment that propelled my public service career and informed my quest to continually seek for an opportunity to improve the lives of Nigerians, set the country on the path of prosperity and lead the country to a better future.

37. This administration has been focused on rebuilding and laying the foundations for a sustainable Nigeria. Of course, we have met and are still meeting the challenges inherent in any rebuilding initiative  more so that of a nation like Nigeria that has undergone avoidable levels of deprivation  but can be surmounted if we all work together.

38. I wish to re-iterate that our people and our spirit of excellence remains our most important asset.

39. In this wise, the need to return to our age-old ethical and high moral values would be necessary and this informed my launching of the National Ethics and Integrity Policy on Monday 28th September, 2020.

40. The policy would not implement itself and the first contact of the visibility of its implementation is the Public Service whose on-going reforms would be expected to be sustainable and give a radical re-direction in providing services to all Nigerians.

41. Fellow Nigerians, in addition to public health challenges of working to contain the spread of the Coronavirus, we have suffered a significant drop in our foreign exchange earnings and internal revenues due to 40 per cent drop in oil prices and steep drop in economic activities, leading to a 60 per cent drop in government revenue.

42. Our government is grappling with the dual challenge of saving lives and livelihoods in face of drastically reduced resources.

43. In this regard, sustaining the level of petroleum prices is no longer possible. The government, since coming into office has recognized the economic argument for adjusting the price of petroleum. But the social argument about the knock-on effect of any adjustment weighed heavily with the government.

44. Accordingly, in the last three years, we have introduced unprecedented measures in support of the economy and to the weakest members of our society in the shape of:

a. Tradermoni

b. Farmermoni

c. School Feeding Programme

d. Job creation efforts

e. Agricultural intervention programmes

45. No government in the past did what we are doing with such scarce resources. We have managed to keep things going in spite of the disproportionate spending on security. Those in the previous Governments from 1999  2015 who presided over the near destruction of the country have now the impudence to attempt to criticize our efforts.

46. In the circumstances, a responsible government must face realities and take tough decisions.

47. Petroleum prices in Nigeria are to be adjusted. We sell now at N161 per litre. A comparison with our neighbours will illustrate the point;

a. Chad which is an oil producing country charges N362 per litre

b. Niger, also an oil producing country sells 1 litre at N346.

c. In Ghana, another oil producing country, petroleum pump price is N326 per litre.

48. Further afield, Egypt charges N211 per litre. Saudi Arabia charges N168 per litre. It makes no sense for oil to be cheaper in Nigeria than in Saudi Arabia.

49. Fellow Nigerians, to achieve the great country we desire, we need to solidify our strength, increase our commitment and encourage ourselves to do that which is right and proper even when no one is watching.

50. Fellow Nigerians, let us collectively resolve to continue our journey beyond the sixty years on the clear understanding that as a nation we are greater together than being smaller units of nationalities. By the special grace of God we shall come through any transient challenges.

51. It is my sincere hope that by the end of this anniversary on September 30th 2021, we will all be proud of taking this individual and collective self-assessment for the progress of our great Nation.

Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

God Bless us all. Thank you.

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A man has appeared in court this evening charged in connection to an alleged knife attack on another man at a direct provision centre in Longford town last night.

Billev Mahmoudia (29), Richmond Court, Richmond Street, Longford appeared before Judge Seamus Hughes charged with a section 3 assault at the aforementioned address last night.

Garda Peter Leonard said gardai arrested the Algerian national at 10pm following an alleged incident at the hostel before detaining and questioning the accused under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act at Longford Garda Station.

He gave evidence of arrest, charge and caution, revealing Mr Mahmoudia made no reply when the charge was put to him shortly after 2pm this afternoon.

Garda Leonard said the alleged victim in the case sustained five stitches to his arm and was taken to Mullingar's Midland Regional Hospital for treatment until his discharge at 2am this morning.

Sgt Sean Trowell, under questioning from Judge Hughes, explained how the victim sustained the injury while attempting to defend himself.

"It (incident) involved a knife attack and the victim received the injury by raising his arm," said Sgt Trowell.

He said as a result of the incident and because both the victim and the suspect reside at the same address, Mr Mahmoudia was no longer welcome there.

Mr Mahmoudia, who was wearing a dark hoodie and tracksuit bottoms, stood patiently in the body of the court as proceedings were relayed to him through an interpreter.

Judge Hughes remanded him in custody with consent to bail, subject to a number of conditions.

Among them included an order for Mr Mahmoudia to stay out of Longford town and to refrain from entering its environs except for court appearances; not to have any contact, direct or indirect with the alleged victim or witnesses in the case, to provide a satisfactory address to gardai, to sign on at a nominated garda station daily and to observe a 9pm to 9am curfew.

Mr Mahmoudia is scheduled to appear back before a sitting of Harristown District Court tomorrow (October 2).






The body of a gang-rape victim in India was cremated despite the wishes of her family against it prompting the eruption of protests in several parts of the country.

Coming from the Dalit Community which is considered as the ancient Hindu caste system's lowest rung, the 19-year-old victim was said to have been attacked on September 14. The incident happened near her own home in a field in the Hathras district according to authorities.

On Tuesday, the victim died in the hospital due to the injuries she sustained amid the attack. Four suspects have been arrested by the police in connection to the rape of the victim.

In an interview with Reuters, the victim's brother said that no government officials nor the police came to them and asked for permission to cremate the victim. They said that the authorities pushed through performing the last rites at around 2 o'clock in the morning on Wednesday in her native village, against the wishes of the family.

Moreover, the brother also said that they begged the police that they wanted the last rites to be performed in the morning, but the police still pushed through and performed the rites themselves.

In addition, he also stated that they were not allowed to go near the site where the last rites were performed. He narrated that the police force formed barricades to stop them and that they were unable to see the face of their sister for the last time.

The names of the victim and her brother were not revealed in accordance with laws protecting victims of sexual violence.

Meanwhile, government officials and police from the district did not respond to any requests for comments or interviews.

Read also: Woman Found Adrift at Sea After Being Missing for Two Years

Forced cremation sparks outrage

The incident has enraged people in India. The country is known for the widespread violence against women especially for women who belong in the so-called "lower castes" of society.

The brother of the victim has stated that the suspected perpetrators were members of a more privileged village in the area.

Uttar Pradesh, the state where the incident occurred is known to be the most unsafe state for women in India. It can be recalled that back in December, a 23-year-old woman from the same community, the Dalit, was set on fire by a group of men just as she was on her way to press charges of rape.

Meanwhile, according to a witness, police met the protesters in Hathras, charging them with batons amid their rallies for justice.

In New Delhi, many protesters were seen wearing masks as protection for coronavirus amid a scuffle with the authorities.

On top of this, a huge picture of the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, of Yogi Adityanath, was burned down by protesters in Adityanath. Due to this, a high-level inquiry was ordered in Adityanath to investigate the incident, Aljazeera reported.

Based on data released by the government in January, back in 2018, one woman reports being raped in India every 15 minutes on average.



Related article: Breonna Taylor's Case Possibly Misrepresented, Grand Juror Requests Release of Full Transcripts and Recordings

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Its not as if these questions are new. In his business dealings, Trump has always displayed what Russians describe as bespredel  a complete rejection of any and all rules. When criticized, he denigrates his opponent. If he lacks facts, he makes them up. If hes sued for misconduct, he launches a countersuit. When his enterprises are about to go bust, he threatens to take his creditors down with him.
Good news: At Tullygally Primary School in Craigavon, Minister Peter Weir revealed the 7.5m funding for a new SEN framework and met with pupils Conor and Matthew Hobson, Molly Forker and principal Kirsty Andrews

A Northern Ireland mother has told how her daughter lost a whole year of school waiting for a special needs statement to come through.

This week a damning Audit Office report found the time limit to issue a statement - a legally binding document which lays out a child's needs - was broken in 85% of cases here.

The statutory limit is 26 weeks - but Liane Wilson and her daughter Kayla, who has autism, waited twice as long.

Ms Wilson said: "The whole of P5 she couldn't attend school because they said without a statement they couldn't get her support. Why it should take so long baffled me.

"Often it's copy pasted, and that's been proved by parents who've sat down with their statements, there's been many incidents where they've copied and pasted the wrong name. She was being denied an education - but yet it's supposed to be illegal."

Kayla described her first years of primary school without any support as like "sitting in a foreign classroom", her mum said.

Ms Wilson said there needs to be more services and more support - and more training.

She added: "It's overdue by a decade and it needs to start from the ground up, from health visitors to GPs to schools. Everyone who touches a child should know, they should be trained to see and notice [signs of autism].

"I thought when she was diagnosed, that's when life would be made easier for her.

"I didn't think then that's when I could have to start fighting for everything."

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The Audit Office report, published on Tuesday, called for an "urgent review and overhaul" of how the Education Authority (EA) provides support for children with SEN. It questioned if the EA's procedures for pupils with SEN were fit for purpose.

Its report is the second in three years, and follows an internal review by the EA in February.

SEN advocate Deirdre Shakespeare said another review would only repeat what families already know. She said: "They have to listen to parents and families, work towards how they can improve their service, not offer further reviews which is a pointless exercise.

"Parents don't need to hear recommendations for their children's education. They need people held accountable for failing their children struggling in a flawed education system that clearly isn't able to provide for SEN children."

A spokesperson for the Department of Education said they welcomed the review, adding: "The Department is working closely with the EA on addressing the issues in the report."

Yesterday Education Minister Peter Weir announced that a public consultation has opened into SEN provision in Northern Ireland.

He also pledged funding of 7.5m to deliver a new SEN framework which will provide additional resources for schools.

Mr Weir said: "Children and young people with special educational needs are among the most vulnerable in our society.

"I am determined to improve the current system of special educational provision and support pupils with SEN to meet their full potential. I want to ensure that parents and children have access to an effective system that is accountable and meets their needs in a more straightforward and responsive way."

Proposed changes will include a defined period in which assessments must be carried out and decisions implemented.
Her face swollen and arms darkened by bruises, Ana's eyes dart anxiously around her flat in eastern Albania, where she is trapped with a violent husband whose blows have worsened during the pandemic.

"My life has been hell for the past few months," the 31-year-old, whose name has been changed for her safety, says, as her daughters, aged three and five, cling to her in a dark corner of the small apartment.

Domestic violence was already at crisis-level in Albania, one of Europe's poorest countries, before the coronavirus emergency began in March.

But for Ana and women like her, the stay-at-home measures and economic anxiety have exacerbated their plight and led to a spike in abuse.

The beatings started several years ago when Ana's husband learned she was pregnant with a second daughter and not a son.

"He wanted me to have an abortion, but I wanted to keep my baby," she told AFP.

The abuse worsened recently when the pandemic caused both Ana and her husband to lose their jobs.

Terrified of angering him further, Ana doesn't see a way out.

"If I take a small step, he will be even more violent. What can I do," she said, through tears.

Albania's patriarchal society strictly governs gender roles, leaving many women financially dependent on men, and revolves around an honour-and-shame system.

According to a United Nations report in 2019, nearly one in two Albanian women has suffered domestic violence in their lifetime, compared to a third globally.

And yet, nearly half of those surveyed in Albania believe "a woman should tolerate some violence to keep her family together", the report found, speaking to the taboo that prevents many from seeking help.

- Suffering in secret -

"Women and children are the first to bear the brunt of the pandemic, the number of victims of domestic violence has increased considerably," said Iris Luarasi, who runs a group to assist victims in Albania.

Calls to her national help hotline shot up 60 percent during March to September, compared to the same period last year.

Likewise, the Woman Forum in the central town of Elbasan has also seen "a considerable increase" in calls for help from victims, whose "mental health is deteriorating", its head Shpresa Banja said.

"They want to talk about their distress, their total lack of a solution," she told AFP.

While only a small fraction of survivors speak out, the UN Development Programme has helped more than 200 women and girls escape violent situations this year, its Tirana representative Limya Eltayeb said.

According to activists, many women choose to secretly share their suffering over the hotlines rather than go to a court, where protection orders offer little help to those who don't have the financial means to find a new home.

Losing faith: Semiha Xhani has tried for six years to claim rights to her house and child support after her 2013 divorce /  AFP

Semiha Xhani, 37, mother of a 10-year-old boy, has tried the legal route but is losing faith after a six-year battle to claim rights to her house and child support from her 2013 divorce.

It is a common problem for women in Albania, where property is traditionally registered and inherited through the husband or his family's name.

With nowhere else to go, Xhani is still living next to her in-laws in a decrepit room with holes in the wall, outside the capital Tirana.

The relatives of her husband, who works abroad, routinely threaten to evict her and her son.

"It would have been better to endure violence than risk being thrown out like beaten dogs," she told AFP.

Her meagre salary from dishwashing at a fast food joint is not enough to cover rent.

"I don't know where to go," she said.

- 'He tortured me' -

The Albanian parliament has recently tightened the penalties for domestic violence, which is now punishable by between five and 10 years in prison.

But that doesn't bring any peace of mind to Lindita Hoxha, a 40-year-old mother of three, who is still recovering from assaults that left her with a broken nose, jaw and vertebrae.

"He tortured me with screwdrivers, knives, a gun to my head," said Hoxha, who still has damage on her left eye "which he tried to tear out with a screwdriver".

After going to jail in 2018 for domestic abuse, her ex-husband was recently freed in April as part of an amnesty to clear out prisons during the Covid-19 crisis.

"Even in prison, he didn't stop threatening, but everything became awful when he regained his freedom," Hoxha told AFP.

Terrified of his return, she took her children and fled their home.

Safe houses for women were already full, so she sought refuge in a small, rented space in a new neighbourhood.

"I'm still very afraid, even the children are afraid, he can appear at any moment, he's going to kill me," she said, crying.

Her injuries, coupled with the pandemic, make it difficult for her to find work to support her children.

A paltry 32 euros ($37) a month from the state doesn't help much.

"School is starting, the children need everything, a safe space, books, clothes, food... how to do it?" she asked.
Supporters of President Trump and the police wave flags at a recent demonstration in Sandy, Ore. (Richard Read / Los Angeles Times)

The son of Polish immigrants who fled World War II, Andrew Jerzy grew up in a family of Democrats in Southern California amid the cultural and political upheavals of the 1960s.

Taking a different path from many in his generation, he became a staunch conservative  voting Republican, tuning in to Rush Limbaugh and advocating gun rights. He kept his views to himself. A construction contractor in Sandy, Ore., east of Portland, the liberal home of many of his customers, he knew his politics could be bad for business.

This summer, however, he began attending rallies and caravans in support of President Trump and the police  activism that put him in the close company of organizations such as the Proud Boys that have ties to white supremacists and advocate taking up arms against the far left.

Newcomers to the pro-Trump, back the blue demonstrations say theyre motivated by disgust with violence at social justice protests that have raged in Portland since the May 25 killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis. The fatal shooting of a far-right supporter and the police killing of an anti-fascist suspected in his death cast Oregon as an extreme version of the countrys polarization in the final weeks leading to the election.

Trump on Tuesday again refused to condemn white supremacist and white nationalist groups. When asked during his debate with Joe Biden to disavow the Proud Boys, an organization with an ardent following in Oregon, the president said the group should stand back and stand by. The groups leadership regarded the comments, which Trump sought to walk back Wednesday, as an endorsement similar to the one he gave white supremacists who marched in Charlottesville, Va., in 2017.

The unrest roiling Portland and other cities this year has been a powerful recruiting tool for organizations such as the Proud Boys, Patriot Prayer and the Three Percenters. Patriot Prayer is led by Joey Gibson, a Washington state resident who faces a felony riot charge for brawling with antifa activists in Portland last year and who was recently photographed with a former Ku Klux Klan member.

Story continues

The allure of the far right is not as blunt as its slogans. People like Jerzy who show up at rallies arent draped in camo and AR-15s. They say they dont condone violence or racism but want to resist what they see as a troubling liberal, anti-American tide. They are at once angry and disillusioned, feeling their voices are often drowned out amid the nations changing demographics and identity politics.

Jerzy, 66, who spoke on condition that he be identified by his middle name to protect his business, embraces the American dream his father sought and sees Black Lives Matter as a Marxist organization.

A staunch supporter of the 2nd Amendment, Jerzy carries a concealed handgun and wishes Portland would crack down on demonstrators he regards as entitled kids wreaking havoc. He said hes not a racist and has no qualms about standing in solidarity with Patriot Prayer.

Pro-Trump demonstrators rally June 4, 2017, in Portland, Ore. The protest was met by a large contingent of counterdemonstrators who viewed it as promoting racism. (Scott Olson / Getty Images)

They call them an ultra-right group, but theyre not  theyre a Christian group that believes in God, family and being a patriot, he said.

Despite its progressive reputation, Oregon is a red state east of the Cascade Range, with a history of excluding Black residents well into the 20th century. Extremist groups such as the Three Percenters, which joined an armed takeover of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in eastern Oregon in 2016, find the state fertile recruiting territory.

They view it as their job to step in and impose order, said Cassie Miller, senior research analyst at the Southern Poverty Law Center.

Many mainstream conservatives were feeling under siege and open to extreme tactics even before this years unrest. A survey of a nationally representative group of Republicans conducted in January by Larry Bartels, a political science professor at Vanderbilt University, found that just over half of respondents agreed that the traditional American way of life is disappearing so fast that we may have to use force to save it.

More than 40% agreed that a time will come when patriotic Americans have to take the law into their own hands.

The far right quickly found heroes amid the chaos of the racial justice protests.

One was Kyle Rittenhouse, the 17-year-old who said he had come to protests in Kenosha, Wis., to protect businesses and was arrested and charged with murder in the Aug. 25 shooting deaths of two unarmed men. His lawyers said that he acted in self-defense, shooting them because they tried to grab his AR-15-style rifle.

Another was Aaron Jay Danielson, a 39-year-old Patriot Prayer follower who police said was killed by an antifa adherent in Portland Aug. 29 after a pro-Trump truck caravan of more than 600  including Jerzy  clashed with left-wing demonstrators downtown. Danielsons name is now standard on T-shirts at rallies in conservative communities surrounding Portland.

Men wearing symbols of the Proud Boys, a right-wing extremist group, stand watch as a pro-Trump truck caravan kicks off Sept. 7 near Portland, Ore. (Richard Read / Los Angeles Times)

Black Lives Matter activists often appear. Yelling and shoving matches ensue, frequently involving rifle-toting members of the Proud Boys, which the Southern Poverty Law Center classifies as a hate group and which includes a number of ethnicities in its ranks. The Proud Boys, who have often fought with antifa activists in Portland, held a rally there Saturday, but a massive law enforcement presence helped prevent clashes.

Some of the rhetoric echoes mainstream Republican  law and order, small government, the evil of taxes  before veering into more extreme territory. At a rally in Salem, Ore., on Sept. 7, a speaker espousing the QAnon conspiracy theory said Democratic leaders should be shot dead in the streets for pushing what he called a pedophile agenda of LGBTQ rights.

It is difficult to gauge the size of extremist groups or how much they have grown in recent months. But Amy Herzfeld-Copple, programs director at Western States Center, a Portland-based organization that tracks such groups, said they have an expanding presence that has provided opportunities to build their political power and incite political, civil and democratic chaos.

Other experts said the pro-police message of the far right has also endeared it to law enforcement, further normalizing views that once seemed radical.

Rebecca Crymer, a frequent participant in Portland-area flag-waving rallies, scoffs at the suggestion she is an extremist.

The 27-year-old U.S. census worker considers herself a weeaboo anime kind of person, referring to obsessive fans of Japanese comics and video games. Raised in Hawaii, where her father retired as an Air Force colonel, Crymer registered at 18 as a Republican but says she was repulsed by Trumps crude statements and voted for him reluctantly.

She moved to Oregon two years ago with her husband, a military recruiter who finds liberal Portland a difficult place to work. When Crymer showed up the first time at a rally to wave the flag, fellow demonstrators eyed her facial piercings, black crop tops and skinny jeans and accused her of being a leftist infiltrator.

Im like, Nope, I just love America, she said.

She dispelled any remaining doubts when she joined the pro-Trump caravan that ended in Danielsons death. Having dog excrement thrown at her only fortified her dedication to the cause.

Rebecca Crymer waves a flag at passing cars in Gresham, Ore. (Richard Read / Los Angeles Times)

She has become an ardent supporter of Trump, extolling his stands on law enforcement and the 2nd Amendment as the nation turns more violent, she said.

I dont own a gun, but Im considering getting one now, said Crymer, a container of mace dangling from her front pocket.

The heart of far-right messaging is the idea that the United States faces an existential crisis. That perspective has become easier to pitch as crises multiply  the coronavirus, civil unrest and wildfires.

Carol Robinson, 73, a retired receptionist from a working-class family, didnt vote for Trump or Hillary Clinton in 2016. But she has since been drawn to Trumps stands on law and order and military spending. When the protests began, she became convinced that Black Lives Matter was a socialist movement and that the criticism of police was unjustified. The police are hated by most everybody, all because of a few bad cops, she said.

Robinson joined her first pro-police rally in June. She waves a flag at back-the-blue events held in Portland twice a week, in front of the Multnomah County Justice Center. Participants write supportive messages on blue paper hearts and stick them to the building, only to see them torn off by people who resent the police.

She plans to vote for Trump and down-ballot Republicans in November.

Times staff writer Melissa Etehad in Los Angeles contributed to this report.





This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
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Germany and Vietnam share a common view on a rules-based international order, peaceful settlement of disputes, and freedom of the seas, the German Embassy said in a press release on Wednesday.

The remarks were made on the occasion of Germanys 30th anniversary of its reunification, which will be celebrated on October 3 to commemorate the fall of the Berlin Wall.

The year 2020 marks the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Germany and Vietnam, the embassy said.

Over these years, the cooperation between the two countries has developed continuously.

The continuation of their strategic partnership agreed in 2011 with a two-year action plan for 2020-21 provides a basis for future-oriented cooperation.

The development of the strategic partnership was also a topic of discussion in the telephone conversation between German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc on September 13.

Strengthening and developing international cooperation, its structures, institutions, and mechanisms are high priorities for both Germany and Vietnam.

Both countries are committed to a rules-based international order, multilateralism, respect for international law, peaceful settlement of disputes, and freedom of the seas and trade.

They have assumed special responsibilities in 2020. They are members of the United Nations Security Council, Vietnam holds the ASEAN Presidency, and Germany has taken over the EU Council Presidency for the second half of this year.

Both nations cooperate in numerous fields. Climate change is a common challenge. Environmental protection and energy supply through increased expansion of renewables and heightened energy efficiency are priority areas of German development policy commitments in Vietnam.

Education and science are further areas of cooperation.

Germany supports the reform of the vocational training system in Vietnam.

Some 7,500 Vietnamese students are currently studying in Germany.

A total of 163 German-Vietnamese university cooperation projects ensure a mutual exchange of knowledge and technology.

Around 2,000 Vietnamese students are learning German at eight PASCH Schools in Hanoi, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City, which are supervised by Germanys Central Office for Schools Abroad.

The German Academic Exchange Service, with its offices in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, supports and promotes this cooperation with scholarships and exchange programs.

The Goethe Institutes in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City encourage lively and modern intercultural dialogue through innovative programs and events. The Vietnamese-German University is a pioneering beacon project of both countries for the future shaping and deepening of scientific and technological cooperation.

On September 23, marking 45 years of diplomatic relations between Germany and Vietnam, a trilateral intergovernmental agreement concerning the development and expansion of the Vietnamese-German University was signed. It sets the framework for the legal, organizational, and financial security of the university.

The German law on immigration of skilled workers, which came into force in March, opens up new, attractive job opportunities for Vietnams skilled workers in Germany.

Economic relations play an important role in bilateral cooperation and are continuously intensifying.

Germany is Vietnam's most important trading partner in the EU. In 2019, Vietnamese exports to Germany totaled US$10.9 billion while German shipments to Vietnam amounted to $4.8 billion.

Vietnam's exports to Germany increased 1.6 percent year on year in the first half of 2020 despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

German investors poured more than $2.1 billion into Vietnam last year, with a high share of state-of-the-art technology. This represents an increase of 5.8 percent compared to 2018.

A total of 380 German companies have branches in Vietnam.

The new "German House" in Ho Chi Minh City is an impressive manifestation of the German presence in the Southeast Asian country.

The free trade agreement between the EU and Vietnam, which came into force on August 1, will reinforce these developments.

2020 will be remembered in the two countries bilateral relations as the year of the COVID-19 pandemic with its dramatic consequences.

Vietnam has supported other countries, including Germany, by supplying face masks, thus sending an encouraging signal of international solidarity in the midst of the global health crisis.

The COVID-19 pandemic and its effects strongly underline the importance of international cooperation. The pandemic can be defeated only together.

A wonderful bridge between the two peoples is being built by the people who live in the other country: the community of Germans in Vietnam and the much larger community of Vietnamese in Germany, both of which continue to grow.

Through personal contacts and initiatives as well as the existing school and city partnerships, they maintain and promote the extremely important personal encounters.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
Since then, the commission has been split into four subcommittees that meet either weekly or biweekly to address critical issues and problems, hear from experts, investigate current data and trends and have discussions about A&Ms mission and values, the website says. The subcommittees are titled data & policies, values & mission, community engagement and campus culture & climate.

Each subcommittee has its own role, from soliciting community input to reviewing information from academic and non-academic areas that affect the well-being of impacted campus communities.

The commission was formed in the midst of several campus protests calling to remove the Lawrence Sullivan Ross statue from the heart of campus. Ross was a Confederate general who later served as governor of Texas before becoming A&Ms president in 1891. Rallies have been held in favor of keeping the statue in Academic Plaza as well.
Algonac Baptist Church to host Harvest Festival

Algonac Baptist Church will host a Harvest Festival from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Oct. 16 at 8543 Marsh Road in Clay Township.

The free event will feature trunk or treat, a hayride, candy, hot dogs, chips, apple cider, donuts a bonfire and more.

Community supper set for Oct. 21

First Evangelical Lutheran Church, located at 1623 Washington St. in Algonac, will host its October community supper from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Oct. 21.

The menu will consist of chicken, broccoli and rice casserole, tossed salad, rolls, beverages and desserts. Seating is at 50% capacity and masks are required until seated.

Free-will offerings will be accepted in order to cover the costs of personal protection equipment.

For more information, call the church at 810-794-4642 .

Marine City DPW to flush fire hydrants, water mains

The Marine City Department of Public Works will be flushing fire hydrants and water mains from Oct. 12 to 16.

The flushing will occur between the hours of 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. and may cause temporary discoloration of the water at your tap, a post on the City of Marine City Facebook page states.

For more information, call the DPW at 810-765-9711 .

 Emily Pauling, MediaNews Group
Lucknow (PTI ) The Uttar Pradesh Congress has given a call for a statewide protest against the detention of party leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra while they were on their way to meet the family of the Hathras gang rape victim on Thursday. The in-charge of the party administration, Siddhartpriy Srivastava, here in a letter said all district and city unit presidents have been asked to hold immediate dharnas against the behaviour of the UP Police, which detained the leaders.

We Congress workers will not tolerate this kind of behaviour of the state police with our leaders and so the UP Congress Committee has decided to hold immediate dharnas in all assembly segments," the letter said.

Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor
Clashes between protesters and armed civilians in Kenosha, Wisconsin, in August. Tayfun Coskun | Anadolu Agency | Getty Images

With President Donald Trump refusing to commit to a peaceful transition of power in the event that he loses the election and clashes already unfolding in some states, political analysts are uniquely fearful as November approaches. Asked last week to commit to conceding should the Nov. 3 election go in favor of Democrat Joe Biden, Trump doubled down on his unfounded claims about mail-in ballots leading to widespread voter fraud in justifying his reluctance. He reiterated this during Tuesday night's chaotic presidential debate, calling mail-in voting a "disaster" and again suggesting that he would not accept a result that goes against him.

The president also refused to disavow White supremacists and militia groups in his corner, telling the Proud Boys  a violent, all-male far-right extremist group  to "stand back and stand by." He instead directed his ire at antifa and "far-left" groups. The comment was interpreted across the group's social media pages as marching orders, according to NBC News, and the Proud Boys have already made T-shirts available emblazoned with Trump's words. The Proud Boys were classified as an extremist group by the FBI in 2018. Trump walked back his remarks on Wednesday, claiming he did not know who the Proud Boys were and instructing them to "stand down and let law enforcement do their work." University College London professor Brian Klaas told CNBC ahead of the debate that Trump's tactics bear "the hallmarks of undemocratic countries" and said he would not be surprised if violence broke out in the aftermath of a close election. A spokesperson for the Trump campaign was not immediately available when CNBC reached out for comment.

"All the red flags that you see in other countries that have political violence are being raised in the United States right now, and you are getting extremely incendiary rhetoric from the president himself," Klaas told CNBC's "Squawk Box Europe" last Friday, adding that mail-in voting has long been a part of U.S. elections with high levels of integrity. "But he is convincing his supporters, which is tens of millions of people, that if he loses, that it is because the election will be rigged, which is false. I worry that if there is a close result, a contested result, that he will call on his supporters to take action," added Klaas, a professor of global politics.

Supreme Court fight

Klaas suggested that the likelihood of political violence is dependent on the electoral margins, with an "unequivocal" Biden victory making it less plausible for Trump to seek to alter the result via the Supreme Court. Central to the latter scenario is the Republican push to replace the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg with Judge Amy Coney Barrett before Election Day, a move that would give the court a 6-3 conservative tilt. Democrats and some Republicans have suggested that Barrett should recuse herself from any election-related cases if confirmed prior to Nov. 3. However, Republicans are expected to have enough Senate votes to force through her appointment.

Trump and fellow Republicans have argued that the GOP's retention of the Senate in the 2018 mid-term elections gives the incumbent administration the mandate to select the next justice, where Democrats believe installing a justice now removes the electorate's right to choose. Republicans blocked a vote on former President Barack Obama's 2016 Supreme Court nominee, Merrick Garland, on the basis that it was an election year, and the nomination came almost nine months before the vote. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said at the time that "the American people should have a voice" and that the vacancy "should not be filled until we have a new president." Barbara Perry, director of presidential studies at the University of Virginia's Miller Center, also argues that Barrett should recuse herself from any involvement of the Supreme Court in the electoral process, with voting having already begun in a number of states. "I think this would be very much like the Watergate tapes case in 1974 which really pushed Richard Nixon out of office, as well it should have, where then Associate Justice William Rehnquist recused himself because he had worked in the Nixon administration in the Justice Department," she told CNBC's "Squawk Box Europe."
GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- A 54-year-old man police believe was responsible for dozens of flashing incidents over 17 years has pleaded guilty to three charges.

Steven Todd Pastoor pleaded guilty Monday, Sept. 28 to three counts of aggravated indecent exposure.

Pastoor was arrested in March.

Police conducting surveillance took him in custody after observing him park his car in a lot, then get out naked from the waist down.

Pastoor was taken into custody and during interviews he admitted to the repeated exposures," a Kent County sheriffs deputy earlier wrote in a court affidavit.

Police earlier said they believed he was responsible for dozens of flashing incidents in the Cascade Township area since 1993. He had eluded police up until recently.

In many of the incidents, the suspect would be attired in a hat and shirt, but nude from the waist down, sheriffs Deputy Paul VanRhee wrote in the affidavit.

The suspect would often knock on a window to gain the attention of the unsuspecting victim, then expose himself and fondle his genitals.

Deputies earlier this year obtained security surveillance video that allowed them to identify Pastoor as a suspect. They then conducted surveillance on him.

Pastoor is to be sentenced Nov. 30.

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Suspected flasher admits exposing himself for decades, police say

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Fox News' Chris Wallace was disappointed with the first Presidential debate between President Donald Trump and Democratic nominee Joe Biden.

The New York Times said that Chris Wallace called the first Biden-Trump debate a "terrible missed opportunity." Wallace, a "Fox News Sunday" anchor who moderated the discussion, said, "I never dreamt it would go off the track the way it did."

Biden, the Democratic nominee, and Trump, the Republican nominee, had a chaotic, tensed 90-minute debate, as per Business Insider. Both candidates relentlessly talked over and insulted each other. Biden, the former vice president, Joe Biden, scolded Trump within the debate's first 20 minutes.

Biden told Trump, "Would you shut up, man?"

On the other hand, Trump continued to interrupt both Wallace and Biden for the rest of the presidential debate. At one point, Wallace jokingly suggested to switch places with Trump and be the one to moderate the debate.

Wallace told The Times about the debate that he was just disappointed with the results not only for Wallace but, more importantly, for the country as it could have been a more useful evening than it turned out to be.

During another one of their fires exchanges on Tuesday night, Biden went on to call Trump the "worst president that America has ever had." The first presidential debate earned criticism and worry from domestic and international viewers.

The debate was called "a national humiliation" by The Guardian in the UK and described as "worrying for American democracy" by France's Le Monde.

Wallace was unconvinced in his interview with The Times saying, "I guess I didn't realize - and there was no way to hindsight being 20/20 - that this was going to be the president's technique, not just for the start of the debate but the entire debate."

The Fox News' reporter added that while he initially thought Trump directly speaking to Biden was setting an actual debate setting on the stage, Wallace became more worried when the Republican presidential candidate refused to back down. For Wallace, he believes he did his best and advised the moderators for the upcoming debates to be quicker in realizing what's going on than he was. "I didn't have that advance warning," Wallace admitted.

On Wednesday, The Commission on Presidential Debates said it would take steps to ensure the next debates are more civilly conducted. The sources tell CNBC the possibility to turn off a candidate's microphone if they violate debate rules being discussed. Wallace told the Times that he is against cutting the mics and warned doing so might result in blowback. He noted that "people have to remember, and too many people forget, both of these candidates have the tens of millions of Americans supoorting them."

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Presidential Debate: Trump, Biden Clash Over Barrett Supreme Court Nomination and ObamaCare

Amy Coney Barrett Starts Visits with Senators; Democrats Refuse to Meet Her

Who Won First Presidential Debate? Experts Evaluate Trump, Biden Brawl
The government in Karnataka has shutdown Power TV, a private broadcaster, in retaliation for the broadcasters reports on corruption allegations against the chief minister Bookanakere Siddalingappa Yediyurappa and his family members. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and its Indian affiliate the Indian Journalists Union (IJU) and the National Union of Journalists (NUJ)- India condemn the illegal shutdown and call on Karnataka government to stop the intimidation of Power TVs staff and allow the network to broadcast freely.

On September 28 the state police raided Power TVs office, forcibly seizing laptops and hard disks, and damaging the server, resulting in the shutdown of the channel. Authorities then blocked the broadcasters YouTube channel and Facebook site. The home of the channels managing director-editor Rakesh Shetty was also searched after a complaint was registered against Shetty on grounds of criminal intimidation, forgery, extortion, cheating, and criminal conspiracy.

The administrations move is in reprisal for a story exposing Y Vijayendra, son of Chief Minister (CM) BS Yediyurappa who received bribes from a private builder, Ramalingam Construction Company Ltd (RCCL). The reports alleged that the RCCL bribed Vijayendra in order to gain favour from the Chief Minister to build a government housing project worth 6.66 billion Indian rupees (USD 9,069,862) and the sons involvement in other government affairs.

The sudden shutdown of Power TV means more 250 staff are left in a precarious situation at a time when job cuts and salary cuts are rampant in India.

The IJU Secretary General Sabina Inderjit said: Closing down media channel in a dictatorial manner for exposing Chief Minister's son's corruption is not acceptable. The IJU demanded immediate restoration of the TV channel.

The NUJ-I president Ras Bihari said: The NUJ (I) strongly condemns this autocratic act of threatening the fourth pillar of democracy and demands an enquiry to reveal the truth."

The IFJ said: The seizure of the equipment of the television channel and abrupt shutdown of an entire network over reports exposing corruption is clear evidence that Bookanakere Siddalingappa Yediyurappa-led government is misusing power. We urge central government intervene and reverse the order to allow the television channel to continue operations.
Aliyev, together with his wife his Mehriban, visited a military hospital in Baku, where soldiers wounded during the clashes with Armenia are treated.

Dozens have been reported killed and hundreds wounded in fighting since Sunday (September 27) that has spread far beyond the enclave's borders, threatening to spill over into all-out war between the former Soviet republics

of Azerbaijan and Armenia.

The re-eruption of one of the "frozen conflicts" from the collapse of the Soviet Union has raised concerns about stability in the South Caucasus, a corridor for pipelines carrying oil and gas to world markets, and raised fears that

regional powers Russia and Turkey could be drawn in.
With nearly 16,000 Texans dead from the coronavirus, it is no surprise that the response to the pandemic has become a focal point of campaign ads around the state as voters prepare to start heading to the polls in less than two weeks.

But the issue is even more raw in Houstons 2nd Congressional District where Democrat Sima Ladjevardian is running ads that slam U.S. Rep. Dan Crenshaw for having minimized the seriousness of the disease  a charge Crenshaws camp said is false.

In her new ad running on cable and network television, Ladjevardian runs a video clip of Crenshaw from March in which he states wearing masks wont help fight the spread of COVID-19.

Do masks help protect you against the coronavirus? Answer: No they dont, Crenshaw says in the ad.

Ladjevardian, a Houston lawyer, uses the clip to buttress an argument shes been making for weeks that Crenshaw has not taken the deadly disease seriously enough.

But Crenshaws camp said Ladjevardian is being dishonest. The video clip in which Crenshaw says masks dont help was from March 7, one week after the U.S. Surgeon General declared that masks were not effective in preventing the spread of the coronavirus. In April, health officials reversed that, saying that new research showed masks are effective in reducing the spread.

Obviously, Dan believes masks are a common-sense personal precaution people can take to slow the spread, Crenshaws campaign spokesman Justin Discigil said. That is why he purchased 50,000 masks and distributed them to at-need communities in May.

KNOW THE CANDIDATES: 2020 Houston Chronicle Voter Guide 2020 San Antonio Express-News Voter Guide

But Ladjevardians campaign says it is not that clean-cut. In April, even after more communities in Texas tried to require masks, Crenshaw slammed Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgos mask requirement in the states most populous county. Hidalgos order threatened to fine people up to $1,000 for failing to wear masks, something Crenshaw called draconian. Crenshaw favored guidelines for masks in confined spaces that could be strongly promoted.

And they point to instances in which Crenshaw has been seen in group settings not wearing a mask. In one case, Crenshaw attended a political fundraising event in August near Austin that was under investigation for violating rules on mass gatherings.

Crenshaws team said he wore a mask during the event except when he was speaking at the podium or posing for photos.

Crenshaw has long been critical of the over-the top accusations leveled at the Donald Trump administration on COVID-19. In April, he cut a 5-minute video clip in which he gave a full-throated defense of Trumps handling of the virus, pointing out that in mid-January, the federal government was already screening incoming passengers from China for COVID-19 and by the end of January he was shutting down travel from China, despite opposition from many Democrats.

The video was a big hit with Trump, he retweeted it to his 86 million followers with the comment: BRILLIANT, A MUST WATCH.

Crenshaw, a retired Navy SEAL, is seeking his 2nd term in Congress representing the 2nd Congressional District, which runs from Humble to Spring and then into West Houston. While Crenshaw has a big campaign finance advantage over Ladjevardian, the 2018 election result has given Democrats hope they can win the seat.

Crenshaw won the district in 2018 by 7 percentage points over Democrat Todd Litton. In 2016, retired Congressman Ted Poe defeated his Democratic opponent by 25 percentage points.
Galicia Monforte, a senior at The ASK Academy, did her best to get high school students age 18 to vote on Nov. 3: She is organized a youth voter registration rally, held last Tuesday on Zoom.

Had you asked a year ago, many high school students might not have been inclined to think of themselves as politically engaged.

Politically aware? Yes. Gen Z youth  those born after 1996  live online and swipe through data of the day in significant measure.

But a year ago, the economy was booming, the unemployment rate was low, the world was open and the future looked boundless and bright.

A year ago, they might not have felt the urgency to take an activist role in social changes. But 2020 and COVID-19 changed all that.

Monforte  too young to vote on Nov. 3  said she knows one way her Generation Z folks can help  by voting.

We no longer can think of the White House as a hypothetical place thousands of miles away and that the governments policies dont affect us and our futures, Monforte said. We are seeing that we can and we need to make a difference. And one of the ways we make a difference is to vote.

But, she said, in talking to fellow students who will have turned 18 by November, she has come to realize that the very act of registering to vote is perplexing to some.

Thats not something were taught in school, she said. And some kids grow up with parents who arent politically engaged and dont vote, so theres no one at home to ask for help.

The Zoom rally featured information on how to register to vote, the various ways to vote, the reasons to vote and more.

Although initially her plan was to focus on bringing together students from West Side high schools, so far shes connected with 16 high schools from Alamogordo to the Navajo reservation. She was hoping even more teens would tune in to hear from and ask questions of a few keynote speakers, including a representative of the Secretary of States Office and Pamelya Herndon of the New Mexico Black Voters Collaborative.

Monforte said she was inspired to organize the rally after listening to former first lady Michelle Obama speak on the importance of voting, but the rally was not about who to vote for or what party to support.

Its just about how to execute your right to vote, she said. I think this is more impactful coming from someone their age like me than someone on the news.

That, even though she will not be eligible to vote in the general election.

I will not turn 18 until next May, she said. But thats part of the reason Im even more motivated to do this. I will not be able to voice my opinion and my right to vote. But I hope those seniors who are 18 will.

Her belief that Gen Zers  projected to be one in 10 eligible voters in November  are ready to take up their power at the polls is borne out by a recent survey of youths ages 18-29 by the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement.

The survey found that 83 percent of Gen Zers believe young people have the power to change the country; 60 percent say they are part of a movement that will vote to express its views; and 79 percent say that COVID-19 helped them realize politics and the decisions of the people they vote into office affect their daily lives.

That survey also found that 32 percent said they did not know whether their state allows them to register to vote online.

(And yes, in New Mexico you can register to vote online at the Secretary of States NMVote.org site  by Oct. 6 in order to vote in the November general election.)

A separate survey  this one conducted by professors at Stanford University, Washington College, Goucher College and the president of Ignite, which trains young women to be political leaders  found that more than 75 percent of participants ages 18-24 see voting as a duty, yet more than 40 percent say a major reason more of them dont vote is because they believe their vote wont change anything.

Monforte is here to say it can. In a strange and unexpected way, she believes the COVID-19 shutdown has helped crystallize that for many of her peers.

If there is anything positive you can say about the pandemic, its that we have been made to see that we can no longer just live in our high school bubble anymore, she said. COVID-19 popped that bubble. It was comfortable, but sadly we cannot live there anymore.

Monforte plans to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, Ariz., after she graduates next year, hoping to attend law school after that. Then, she envisions a career in politics.

Maybe those who elect her someday will have registered to vote for the first time because of her.

(This article originally began as a Journal UpFront opinion column by Joline Gutierrez Krueger in the Sept. 21 Albuquerque Journal.)
Watch: Kate Garraway says husband Derek Drapers parents havent seen him in months

Kate Garraway has revealed husband Derek Draper's parents haven't seen their son for six months.

Draper, 53, has remained in hospital since contracting COVID-19 in March.

He is currently in "a minimal state of consciousness" after being comatose for weeks although he is now coronavirus-free.

Garraways revelation came as the Good Morning Britain presenter said "we have to do our best" to stick to rules on social distancing and mask wearing.

Read more: Kate Garraway's husband now longest suffering critical COVID-19 patient

"Derek's mum and dad haven't been able to see him," she shared. "I think if they can go six months without giving a hug to their son, who is so desperately ill, then the rest of us can probably get through.

Kate Garraway and her husband Derek Draper at the National Television Awards 2007. (Getty Images)

"Sorry, I didn't mean to depress everybody. But that's the reality of getting caught up in the virus."

Garraway added that she felt sympathy towards those who were "fed up" with the virus and it affecting their livelihoods but said that it made her tempted to show rule breakers "a picture of Derek in his current state".

"There are so many shades of grey. If we stick to basics we can hopefully get through it," she said.

Kate Garraway wasn't able to visit husband Derek Draper on their anniversary.

Garraway and the children she shares with her husband, Darcey, 14 and 11-year-old Billy, have only been able to have limited contact with Draper due to quarantine restrictions although have regularly seen him on FaceTime.

Read more: CBBC star Archie Lyndhurst dies aged 19

On their 15th wedding anniversary last month, Garraway wasn't permitted to visit her spouse in hospital although she was able to visit the following day.

On 10 September, she said: I kind of hoped I would but it hasnt worked out that way for the visit But maybe it would be a bit strange anyway. So its a tough day.
(TNS)  The Federal Communications Commission on Wednesday penalized a Hawaii telecommunications company and its founder, Albert Hee, with one of its largest fines ever.The FCC imposed a $49.6 million fine against Sandwich Isles Communications along with parent company Waimana Enterprises and former sole shareholder Hee for what the agency contends was $27 million in undue payments received from the federal Universal Service Fund to establish and maintain high-cost communications network operations serving about 3,600 Department of Hawaiian Home Lands customers.FCC Chairman Ajit Pai said in a statement that Hee engaged in a long-running scheme using money from a web of connected companies to pay for personal expenses for himself and family members over nearly 15 years.This was no accounting error or honest misunderstanding of the Commissions rules, Pai said. It was a willful effort to defraud the Universal Service Fund  essentially, all taxpayers  for private gain.Hee was convicted in a 2015 federal tax fraud case over related claims that he booked nearly $3 million in personal spending as corporate expenses, including $92,000 for massages,$1.6 million paid to Hees wife and children while they did no work for Waimana, $505,502 for jewelry worn by his wife and two daughters, and $752,082 for college tuition, books and rent for his children. Hee, who was given a nearly four-year prison sentence in 2016, is now free.The FCC proposed its $49.6 million fine in 2016, and later considered responses from Sandwich Isles contesting the fine.Anne Veigle, an FCC spokeswoman, said the commission found the company responses unpersuasive.In addition to improper business expense claims, the FCC alleged that Sandwich Isles used taxpayer money to pay Waimana inflated rent and management fees as well as unjustified bonuses for Hee.Pai said in his statement that the fine was the maximum allowed by law for violating FCC rules.Its well-deserved in this case, given the repeated, willful violations involved, and it serves to reaffirm the Commissions commitment to stamping out waste, fraud, and abuse in the Universal Service Fund, he said. The American people, and particularly, those living in the Hawaiian Homelands, deserve better.Sandwich Isles and an attorney representing the company did not respond to requests for comment Wednesday. It is unclear whether the FCC, which in addition to the fine is attempting to recoup $27 million in Universal Service Fund payments to Sandwich Isles, can collect much if anything.A sister company to Sandwich Isles, Paniolo Cable Co., was forced into bankruptcy in 2018 by private lenders claiming they were owed $257 million for financing Paniolos interisland network of telecom cables leased to Sandwich Isles.Sandwich Isles operates telecom service on Hawaiian homesteads under an exclusive contract with DHHL awarded in 1995, but is heavily in debt and recently was stripped of its own assets.The U.S. Department of Agriculture holds a $139 million court judgment against Sandwich Isles tied to delinquent loans, and a trustee appointed in U.S. Bankruptcy Court to oversee Paniolo has a $257 million judgment against Sandwich Isles on behalf of Paniolos creditors.In March, Paniolos trustee was awarded ownership of all Sandwich Isles assets.The trustee intends to auction assets of Paniolo and Sandwich Isles to generate proceeds for creditors, but that event previously scheduled for July is delayed because the trustee claims Sandwich Isles isnt providing information about contracts, licenses, leases, easements and other things that are critical for prospective buyers to understand prior to an auction.Meanwhile, Hee attempted to retain part of his former telecom empire in May by offering $2 million, through another interrelated family business called Blue Ivory Hawaii Corp., to buy 163 acres of land in Mililani partly used by Sandwich Isles.A bankruptcy judge approved this sale, but the deal stalled in part because of the issue with Sandwich Isles allegedly not providing documents for the larger asset auction, according to court records.Next month, the FCC plans to extend broadband service to unserved parts of Sandwich Isles former service area in Hawaii through an auction, and Pai said taxpayer funds available for this endeavor will be used to serve telecom needs of customers and not for massages, vacations, and cars.
American authorities brought criminal charges on Thursday against the owners of one of the worlds biggest cryptocurrency trading exchanges, BitMEX, accusing them of allowing the Hong Kong-based company to launder money and engage in other illegal transactions.

BitMEX is far from the first cryptocurrency company to be suspected of facilitating criminal activity. But it is the largest and most established exchange to face criminal charges.

Federal prosecutors in Manhattan indicted the chief executive of BitMEX, Arthur Hayes, and three co-owners: Benjamin Delo, Samuel Reed and Gregory Dwyer. Mr. Reed was arrested in Massachusetts on Thursday, while the other three men remained at large, authorities said.

Prosecutors said BitMEX had taken few steps to limit customers even after being informed that the exchange was being used by hackers to launder stolen money, and by people in countries under sanctions, like Iran.
DENVER, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Marshfield Clinic Health System has renewed its commitment to proactively engage with patients to drive critical health activities. The Wisconsin-based integrated health system has signed a three-year agreement to continue its work with Welltok, the consumer activation company, to conduct multi-channel, targeted outreach.

"Patients need clear, personalized communications  at all times, but especially now," said Julie Timm, marketing director at Marshfield Clinic Health System. "Welltok is helping us appropriately communicate to our patients and community population, so they know how and where to access the healthcare they need. It is important that critical screenings and care for chronic conditions are not put off during this time of COVID-19. We have reassured patients and the communities we serve that our facilities are safe, and we are taking the utmost precautions to offer excellent care."

Marshfield Clinic conducts several digital and direct mail campaigns with Welltok, most recently focused on how to access care during the pandemic, both in-person and virtually. Personalized messages are delivered to people managing chronic health conditions, pregnant women, parents of minor-age children and those in need of their annual wellness exam. With the Patientology solution, Welltok uses proprietary data and predictive analytics to engage consumers with targeted communications that drive actions like scheduling a visit or getting tested.

"We've had the honor of working with Marshfield Clinic for several years now, and they have always been forward-thinking in how they interact with their patients and the growing population they serve," said Jaci Haack, vice president of client strategy for Welltok. "By proactively engaging with patients, Marshfield Clinic is really driving the message home that they care about the community and ensuring that people are not disrupting essential care."

Marshfield Clinic is one of only a few large independent nonprofit healthcare systems in the country. To help fulfill its mission of enriching more lives, they are also partnering with Welltok on several expansion announcements and new provider promotions. They also have a regional "Newcomer" campaign to welcome new residents moving into the communities they serve, providing information on where to access care throughout the integrated system.

For more information about Welltok's Patientology solution, please visit welltok.com/crm-for-healthcare.

About Welltok

Welltok is an award-winning consumer activation company that improves people's total wellbeing. Only Welltok uses a smart mix of proprietary data and machine learning to engage consumers in personalized and rewarding ways to drive action. Our solutions integrate SaaS software, curated resources, a partner ecosystem and professional services to help health plans, employers and health systems support healthier, happier populations. Watch this 90-second video to learn more.

Media Contact

Erica Sniad Morgenstern

415.697.3496

[email protected]

SOURCE Welltok, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.welltok.com


In this years election we have to pick both the president and vice president of our country. However, this has not been a normal year for anyone. The media, which I have no confidence in anymore, are questioning the age and mental acuity of both candidates. I can see that and I believe that either winner will not be able to finish the full four years of the term. With the former vice president, it is really a mental acuity issue along with his age; hes 78. With President Trump, its the very likely impeachment possibility. Speaker Pelosi has already stated that she is already planning to initiate hearings.

So with those possibly likely events it appears that were voting for the party that has the most qualified vice presidential candidate. You have an experienced previous governor who has been in his current position for the last four years working to assist the running of the country.
New Delhi, Oct 1 : There is no bar on an investigating agency employing technical tools to conduct further investigation, a Delhi court noted while rejecting the bail application of a Delhi riots accused, arrested after being "digitally identified" by the police.

Mohammed Arif is facing charges of attempt to murder, rioting, conspiracy and under various other sections of the Indian Penal Code, and the Arms Act, in a case being probed by the Delhi Police's Crime Branch.

Additional Sessions Judge Vinod Yadav denied bail to him, observing that the charges against him are serious in nature and that there is a possibility of him threatening or intimidating the witnesses.

During the course of proceedings, the special public prosecutor submitted that the digital identification of the applicant has been made at the scene of crime. Counsel for the accused, however, took a strong exception to the digital identification on the ground that it is impermissible in law after the filing of a charge sheet.

The special public prosecutor emphasised that no new material has been added in the matter, but with the use of technology only, the process of identification has been changed.

To this, the court noted: "In my prima facie view, there is no bar in investigating agencies employing technical tools to conduct further investigation." The court further noted that the accused is clearly visible in CCTV footage in Chand Bagh at 12.06. 35 hours on February 24, while wearing white shirt and black lower, carrying a stick in his hands and is also seen damaging the CCTV camera.

"The photographs of the applicant have also been captured by video footage. He has been categorically identified by Constable Sunil, vide his statement, and also identified by Constable Gyan. The CDR location of the mobile phone of the applicant has been found to be at the scene of crime on the date of incident."
Hemant Kumar Rout By

Express News Service

BHUBANESWAR: September has proved to be the cruelest month for Odisha as the State recorded more than half of the total confirmed cases in the 30-day period alone. It has been almost 200 days since the first case was reported.

A youth who had returned from Italy was first to be tested positive for novel coronavirus on March 15. But in September alone, it registered 52.15 per cent (pc) new infections and 41.44 pc Covid related deaths. The recovery, too, has been very encouraging as around 90 pc patients got well.

An analysis of the Covid infections revealed that as a whopping 1,16,173 Covid cases and 356 deaths were reported in the month that just went by, signalling that Odisha peaked way late than other states. On an average, about 3,872 cases were reported across 30 districts though Khurda, Cuttack and Puri contributed nearly 30 pc of the caseload.

Similarly, the average death reported on a day was 12. The highest single day spike of 4,356 cases was recorded on September 25 and 16 deaths on September 23.

However, 1,04,930 patients recovered during the period with the highest recovery of 4,388 patients recorded on September 25.

In August, the State had averaged 2,357 cases and nine deaths a day with a total tally of 73,082 cases and 278 deaths while at an average of 844 cases and six deaths a day, a total 26,163 cases and 192 deaths were registered in July.

Though cases remained over 3,000 all through September, the infection progressed around mid-September and the daily tally crossed 4000 mark on September 13 when 4198 cases were reported. The daily caseload breached 4000 mark for 13 days, including 12 days in a row, before going down due to reduced tests.

As cases spiked, the number of tests were cut down across districts bringing down the daily test count from a range of 50,000-55,000 to 40,000-45,000. With 14.11 lakh tests this month, the overall testing crossed the 30 lakh mark.

However, the State's struggle to control the situation continued as the numbers climbed rapidly with patients seeking more beds with ICU and ventilator facilities. Though over 70 pc patients with mild or no symptoms were advised to remain in home isolation to lessen the burden on Covid hospitals, there was a

scramble for beds which prompted the State Government to add more ICU beds in Cuttack and Bhubaneswar.

Health authorities attributed the rise in infection to the peoples reluctance to strictly adhere to Covid-19 guidelines and breach of safety protocols in marriages, community feasts and social gatherings.

Even as the Niti Aayog has warned that the ensuing festive season followed by winter when respiratory infections tend to occur more may escalate the Covid-19 situation, Odisha Government expected the cases to stabilise during October-November period in the State.

"The transmission in districts like Ganjam, Gajapati and Puri has almost stabilised. The only concerns are Khurda and Cuttack districts which are still recording high cases. By mid-October, we are hopeful that the number of new infections will come down. We are preparing our strategy keeping in mind the festive season and winter," Additional Chief Secretary of Health department PK Mohapatra said.
The House of Representatives is set to vote tonight on a new $2.2 trillion stimulus bill as both parties continue to negotiate to come up with an agreement over the next relief package.

The negotiations between Treasury Steven Mnuchin and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi started on Wednesday night and they are expected to have another talk tonight.

President Donald Trump has already instructed his top negotiators, including Mnuchin, to come up significantly from the $1 trillion stimulus deal they had been working on. It can be remembered that Trump called for bigger stimulus checks and was pushing Republicans to embrace a larger amount.

Tonight's vote will be on the House's amended HEROES Act. Here's what you can get on the new stimulus aid that Congress will be voting at, according to Forbes:

Another round of $1,200 stimulus checks.

Federal enhanced unemployment benefits of $600 per week.

Additional funding for the Paycheck Protection Program for small business relief.

Billions of dollars for K-12 schools, postsecondary schools, and childcare.

$75 billion for public health initiatives including coronavirus testing.

Economic relief for states and cities.

An extension of the suspension of student loan payments, interest, and collections to September 2021, and an expansion of that suspension to all federal student loans, including those issued by commercial lending entities.

If the bill passes the Congress tonight, its chances to pass in the Senate is very low. However, there is still a possibility that it could be approved in the Republican-dominated Senate if Trump will urge the GOP members to embrace the stimulus package.

The two top priorities of the House is to send direct stimulus checks and PPP loans for businesses. These two were the relief measures that Mnuchin and Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powel emphasized when they testified before Congress.

Other than those two relief measures, the Republican lawmakers also wanted to continue the unemployment benefits, to provide $10 billion for child-care support, and to forgive the $10 billion loan of the U.S. Postal Service under the CARES Act. The GOP bill also included the controversial liability shield to protect businesses from coronavirus-related lawsuits.

Even though the next round of stimulus checks was not included in the previous GOP stimulus proposal, Trump has urged Congress to release the $300 billion unspent budget from the CARES Act and send it as stimulus checks to over 160 million Americans across the country.

The Trump administration is also considering issuing a series of executive orders for PPP loans, stimulus checks, and other relief measures if lawmakers fail to reach a final deal. The White House has already confirmed that it has billions of dollars left that they intend to release to the people.

There are also speculations that the White House is preparing something that will benefit millions of Americans in case an agreement on coronavirus stimulus is not reached.

Check these out!
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 16:23:17|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Thursday marks the Mid-Autumn Festival, a traditional holiday for family reunion in China.

Coincidentally, this year's Mid-Autumn Festival overlaps with China's National Day, marking a good occasion to celebrate the love for the family and for the nation.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has, on many occasions, stressed the interconnectedness between families and the country, calling on people to value the family, carry on family virtues and dedicate themselves to the country.

The following are some highlights of his quotes:

-- The Chinese people have traditionally been combining their love for the family with that for the country. They value working for the common good and putting duty before self; they are convinced that everyone takes a share of responsibility for the country's rise and fall.

-- The Chinese nation has always valued the family. As an ancient saying goes: "The state is essential under Heaven. The family is essential for the state." A harmonious family will prosper.

-- The family is the basic unit of society and the first school that we attend in life. Regardless of how the times change, or how our lives are transformed, we must remain committed to laying emphasis on the family, family education and fine family traditions.

-- A prosperous and strong nation and the national rejuvenation are embodied by the happiness of the families and the improvement of hundreds of millions of people's lives. A nation can do well only when families do well.

-- We should combine our love for families with our love for the nation and integrate our family dreams with the dream of the nation.

-- Currently, the Chinese people are forging ahead along the new Long March towards the two centenary goals and the Chinese Dream of national rejuvenation. To ensure that the dreams of families come true, we must realize the Chinese Dream. Enditem
California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed into law four bills affecting the cannabis industry, and vetoed one.

The cannabis-related bills Newsom signed are:

Assembly Bill 1458: Raises the label variance threshold for edible products from plus or minus 10% to plus or minus 12% until Jan. 1, 2022, giving edible manufacturers some breathing room as production technology catches up to Californias rigorous testing standards.

Assembly Bill 1525: Authorizes the state or a local government to share certain financial information with the consent of a cannabis licensee. AB 1525 is aimed at helping financial institutions better comply with federal reporting requirements and avoid the time and expense of having to file reports believed by some to discourage these entities from providing services to cannabis licensees altogether.

Senate Bill 67: Ensures that cannabis and cannabis products produced from a recognized appellation of origin, as defined by the California Department of Food and Agriculture, came from cannabis plants cultivated in the ground, and grown without the use of a structure, and without the use of artificial lighting in the canopy area. The bill also authorizes the CDFA to establish a city of origin designation.

Senate Bill 1244: Aids local agencies in enforcing against illicit cannabis activities by making clear that cannabis testing laboratories may receive and test samples from any local or state law enforcement agency or regulatory body.

Newsom vetoed Assembly Bill, which sought to amend the definition of final form as it relates to cannabis testing to cut back on waste produced in the supply chain. In his veto message, the governor suggested this bill was premature in advance of the administration plans to consolidate the three licensing entities into a single Department of Cannabis Control.

All five bills were supported by the California Cannabis Industry Association.

We thank Governor Newsom for prioritizing these bills, which seek to reduce regulatory burdens, improve enforcement, expand financial services and enhance the states cannabis appellations program, CCIA Executive Director Lindsay Robinson said in a statement. Like so many, the cannabis industry has faced a series of unexpected challenges and setbacks in 2020. We look forward to continuing to work with the Newsom Administration, and the Legislature, as we pursue a robust policy agenda in 2021, she added.

Newsom recently signed Assembly Bill 1872, which will suspend for one year, beginning Jan. 1, 2021, the California Department of Tax and Fee Administrations authority to raise the cannabis cultivation tax and the wholesale mark-up rate for purposes of calculating the excise tax.

Topics California Cannabis
She caught the eye with her glamorous and glitzy ensembles in The Great Gatsby.

But Carey Mulligan cut a casual figure in a dark green coat and straight leg trousers as she grabbed lunch with friends at The Wolseley in central London on Wednesday.

The actress, 35, embraced the colder temperatures with her effortlessly stylish outfit as she called for a taxi outside the upmarket restaurant.

Autumnal style: Carey Mulligan cut a casual figure in a dark green coat and straight leg trousers as she grabbed lunch with friends at The Wolseley in central London on Wednesday

The screen star paired her tailored wrap coat with a high-neck top, Gucci trainers and a black satchel that draped over her shoulder.

Carey opted for a minimal make-up look and protected her delicate features with edgy circular shades.

The blonde beauty tucked her tresses in a turquoise hair tie and she added a delicate touch with gold pendant earrings.

She clutched a Soho Hotel bag in her hand, exposing her glistening wedding and engagement ring as she spoke to the taxi driver.

Ready to go: The actress, 35, embraced the colder temperatures with her effortlessly stylish outfit as she called for a taxi outside the upmarket restaurant

The actress has kept a relatively low profile during the coronavirus pandemic but was seen out and about in Los Angeles in August, catching up with pals and running errands.

The star recently opened up to NET-A-PORTER's digital publication, PORTER, in which she discussed her thoughts on the #MeToo movement, life after children and toxic masculinity in her new film Promising Young Woman.

The award-winning actress, who shares Evelyn, four, and Wilfred, two, with musician husband Marcus Mumford, 33, also insisted she's content with juggling her career with motherhood, sharing: 'I haven't been in a bar in ages, and Im very glad of that'.

Stylish: The screen star paired her tailored wrap coat with a high-neck top, Gucci trainers and a black satchel that draped over her shoulder

Eye candy: Carey opted for a minimal make-up look and protected her delicate features with edgy circular shades

Solo outing: The British actress chatted to pals outside the venue but her musician partner, Marcus Mumford was not present for the social lunch

Shining bright: She clutched a Soho Hotel bag in her hand, exposing her glistening wedding ring as she spoke to the taxi driver

Carey has also been promoting her new movie, Promising Young Woman, which follows the story of her character Cassie, a barista who feels unfulfilled in her life.

In a bid to lift her spirits, the medical school dropout lets loose at bars every week, where she becomes intoxicated and on the brink of passing out.

During one raucous outing, men who pretend to 'help' her, end up attempting to take advantage of her drunken state.

The thespian claimed her project, penned and directed by Killing Eve showrunner, Emerald Fennell, highlights the importance of awareness surrounding topics such as sexual assault and toxic masculinity.

The British actress said: 'Its funny, because the reaction I first had when I read the script was, "This is soooo romantic".

'[But] Emeralds [point] was: if [you] take someone home and they are really drunk, and then that person reveals they are not drunk, and you feel guilty, then you know what you are doing isnt right.'

'What we reflected on, making this film, was the amount of real-life stories like this we know. A lot of this film is stuff that pretty much every woman I know has experienced in some way. '

When asked whether she misses her life before welcoming her kids, the mother-of-two, who wed musician Marcus in April 2012, declared: 'Noooo.

'In fact, every time we stepped into a new bar set, Emerald and I would both be like, "God, we havent been in a bar in a really long time". And Im very glad of that.'
Canadian Blood Services has had to reshape its clinics for collections during the pandemic.

Venues for the clinics have been modified and, in many instances, their capacity has been reduced to allow for physical distancing.

While this measure ensures everyone who donates blood is safe from COVID-19, it does pose challenges for hitting collection targets.

For many of us, fall has historically been about back to school and getting back into routine, but we know things are different now. One thing that hasnt changed is the need for blood, it does remain constant and we certainly do need the support of the community, said Elaine St. Pierre of Canadian Blood Services.

At St. Pauls Apostle Church, where blood donation clinics are held in Alliston, the number of beds has been reduced from 10 down to six, making it difficult to meet their targets. However, St. Pierre said theyve extended those clinics by an hour to make up for the reduced capacity.

With the pandemic, because of our need for physical distancing, weve had to reduce the overall number of appointments available at any event to ensure we dont have too many people coming at the same time, St. Pierre said.

She said with less appointments its important that everyone who books one shows up.

Theres less appointments now, so we need to have every one of them filled and we need those donors to be there at their appointments, said St. Pierre.

Pre-pandemic Canadian Blood Services would need to book two people for each unit of blood donated in anticipation of cancellations and deferrals.

Tottenham has been fortunate in that Canadian Blood Services has been able to utilize the gymnasium of its Community Centre, so collections could continue without skipping a beat since the pandemic started.

In both Alliston and Tottenham, prior to the pandemic, the communities always hit their blood collection targets or exceeded them.

I think thats a testament to the extreme dedication that we have from donors in New Tecumseth, but since the beginning of the pandemic, events in these communities have been averaging a few units under target each time, St. Pierre noted.

While just a few units may not seem like much, when you extrapolate that over the thousands of events happening across the country where the same things happening, the impact can be felt, resulting in a lower national inventory, she continued.

Were heading into that time where we may be expecting that second wave and we just need to remain diligent and make sure that if youre eligible, continue to book in and keep that appointment.

Through Thanksgiving and long weekends, Canadian Blood Services sees a decline in blood donations, which poses a threat to ensuring Canadians can receive lifesaving blood as needed. Bloods shelf life is short, creating a constant demand for donations.

Canadian Blood Services supplies blood to over 700 hospitals nationwide and uses about 17,000 units of blood each week.

We are concerned about heading into the winter and everything those winter storms can sometimes bring, so its important that we maintain the course, St. Pierre stressed.

Looking ahead, the next blood donation clinic is Wednesday October 21 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Community Centre (139 Queen St. N).

We know that there are challenges now as parents are adjusting to the complexities of the school system and everything that it brings, so Im just really hoping they can take an hour out of their day to donate, said St. Pierre.

All blood types are needed and everyone who is eligible is really encouraged to book, ask a family member, ask a friend, or even someone thats in your social bubble, ask them to book an appointment and donate with you.

Visit blood.ca or download the Give Blood App to check eligibility and book an appointment. All appointments must be booked in advance and require additional screening related to COVID-19.
After being temporarily banned by the Hong Kong government in the second half of September, Air India will fly to Hong Kong from New Delhi on October 4. The Hong Kong government on September 20 barred Air India from flying as passengers aboard were found to be Covid-19 positive. A New Delhi-Hong Kong flight scheduled on September 21 was cancelled. The embargo on Air India flights is till October 3.

Issuing a statement, Air India has informed that those who were scheduled to fly from New Delhi to Hong Kong on September 21 can travel by the October 4 flight. Passengers holding confirmed booking on cancelled flight of 21st Sep 20, are requested to contact the booking offices and call centre till 1700hrs of 2nd October for booking of tickets, Air India tweeted.

#FlyAI : Air India will operate a flight from Delhi to Hong Kong on 4th October '20.



Passengers holding confirmed booking on cancelled flight of 21st Sep '20, are requested to contact the booking offices and call centre till 1700hrs of 2nd October for booking of tickets.(1/2) pic.twitter.com/si9PuGQZ2h  Air India (@airindiain) October 1, 2020

Booking for the remaining seats will open on October 2 at 6pm.

Booking for remaining seats on this flight will open on 2nd October 20 at 1800 hrs on Air India website, Booking Offices and Call Centre, Air India tweeted.

Air India passenger flights were barred from landing in Hong Kong between August 18 and August 31 after 14 passengers on its Delhi-Hong Kong flight of August 14 tested positive for COVID-19 post-arrival.
Bihar Assembly Elections: Sources suggest that the NDA's seat-sharing formula is likely to be finalised in a day or two and is expected to be announced on October 2.

As part of preparations for Bihar polls, Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) central and state leaders held a meeting here for the first time since the announcement of poll dates to finalise seat-sharing formula with allies. Other election-related issues like finalisation of candidates were also discussed.

Sources in the party said that seat-sharing formula will be out in a day or so amid pressure for more seats from Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) which has had differences with JD-U. Both the parties are part of the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the state along with BJP.

A source said that more seats to LJP would mean that BJP would have to give them from its quota as Janata Dal-United was not ready to give any seats from its share. The source said that BJP wanted that LJP should stay with NDA, the NDAs seat-sharing formula was likely to be finalised in a day or two and was expected to be announced on October 2.

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Sections in LJP have talked of the party contesting 143 seats on its own if seat-sharing talks do not succeed. Seat-sharing formula has emerged as a contentious issue and sources said BJP has decided to give reasonable number of seats to Lok Janshakti Party but without succumbing to pressure politics.

The party also hopes LJP will be reasonable in its demand for seats. Sources said that 20-25 seats was a reasonable offer and the parting of ways cannot be ruled out if LJP is adamant. The state election committee is expected to meet in Patna and it will send its names for recommendations to the central leadership.

The meeting, lasting about five hours, was held at the residence of party chief JP Nadda. Party leaders Amit Shah, Devendra Fadnavis, Bhupendra Yadav, BL Santhosh, Sushil Modi, Sanjay Jaiswal, Nityanand Rai and Nagendra general secretary ( organisation) Bihar were among those present.

Sources said out of 243 seats, both JD-U and BJP will divide seats among themselves approximately equally. While Jitan Ram Manjhis Hindustani Swam Morcha will be accommodated by JD-U from seats broadly falling in its quota, there will be a similar exercise between BJP and LJP based on their strengths.

Also read: President Kovind turns 75, Prime Minister Modi, Home Minister Shah and others extend greetings
Nigerias legislature did not enjoy a smooth sail until the beginning of the Fourth Republic in 1999, but it is considered the foremost of the three arms of government.

Section four of the constitution describes the legislature as the highest law making body with powers to make laws on behalf of the country. Other powers include confirmation of ministers and heads of agencies, investigation or call for investigation into any matter.

The bicameral National Assembly, comprising the Senate and House of Representatives, is headed by the senate president and speaker.

This analysis seeks to profile Nigerias parliamentary leaders since independence.

Nigeria has produced 14 senate presidents since independence in 1960.

Legislative bodies in the federal and state levels were disbanded each time the military took over power between 1966 and 1999.

PREMIUM TIMES checks show that of the 14 senate presidents, five of them are dead.

Senate Presidents

1. Nnamdi Azikiwe

Late Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe [Photo Credit: BBC]

His tenure as president of the Senate was short and lasted between 1959 and 1960. This is because he was appointed Governor General after Nigeria became independent in October of the same year.

Prior to that, Mr Azikiwe, as a leader of the the defunct National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC), held several public offices ranging from the Nigerian Legislative Council (1947-1951), member of the Western House of Assembly (1952-1953) and premier of the Eastern Region (1954-1959).

When Nigeria became a republic on October 1, 1963, Mr Azikiwe was named the first president, a position he held until he was deposed by the military coup of January 15, 1966.

He died on May 11, 1996 at the University of Enugu Teaching Hospital after a long illness.

2. Dennis Osadebey

Dennis Osadebey [Photo Credit: Innosreport-blogger]

Mr Osadebey served as senate president after Mr Azikiwe between 1966 and 1963. Like Mr Azikiwe, he was a member of the NCNC.

He later became the pioneer premier of the Mid-Western region after its creation in 1963. Prior to that, he was the leader of the opposition in the Western House of Assembly and an active voice in the clamour for independence

He died in December 1994 at the age of 84.

3. Nwafor Orizu

Nwafor Orizu [Photo Credit: Facebook]

Nwafor Orizu was president of the Senate from November 1963 to January 1966, also under the platform of the NCNC.

He served as acting president in October 1965 after the then president, Nnamdi Azikiwe, embarked on a prolonged vacation from which he did not return until the military made its first incursion into government in Nigeria on January 15, 1966.

Mr Nwafor held the position until that military coup.

After the coup, he became less active in the political scene and more active in education. He died in 1999. The Nwafor Orizu College of Education in Anambra State is named after him.

4. Joseph Wayas

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He served in the Second Republic between 1979 and 1983 when Nigeria moved from the parliamentary to the presidential system of government after the military handed over power.

He was elected to the Senate from Cross River State under the platform of the National Party of Nigeria.

Mr Wayas vacated office along with other members of the Shagari-led administration after the military coup on New Years Eve 1983 that brought Muhammadu Buhari, then a Major General, to power as head of state .

Still alive, Mr Wayas has not been active on the political scene.

5. Iyorchia Ayu

He was elected senate president in the short-lived Third Republic under the Social Democratic Party. He served from 1992 until he was impeached in 1993.

The legislature in this period under the prolonged transition programme of the Ibrahim Babangida junta, was only 23 months old when it was disbanded by Sani Abacha.

He was thereafter appointed a minister of education in 1993 under the Abacha-led regime.

He also served as minister of industry, internal affairs and environment under the Obasanjo-led administration between 1999 and 2003.

Although not so active in politics, he has however, remained vocal.

6. Ameh Ebute

Ameh Ebute was president of the Senate in 1993 towards the end of the Third Republic.

He had threatened to reconvene the National Assembly after it was disbanded by Mr Abacha and was charged for conspiracy in 2004. He was detained for six weeks.

He is currently a member of the National Caucus and Board of Trustees of the ruling All Progressives Congress.

7. Evan Enwerem

At the start of the Fourth Republic in May 1999, Mr Enwerem emerged president of the Senate after its inauguration in June of the same year.

He was however, removed after six months following an allegation of abuse of office but remained a senator until 2003.

He died in August 2007 after a brief illness.

8. Chuba Okadigbo

Chuba Okadigbo [Photo Credit: Wikipedia]

Chuba Okadigbo succeeded Evan Enwerem in 1999 and like his predecessor, was removed in August 2000 after he was charged of corruption from contract awards in the Senate.

He died in Abuja on September 25, 2005, a day after campaigning in Kano.

9. Anyim Pius Anyim

After Mr Okadigbos removal, Anyim Pius Anyim emerged president of the Senate under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a position he held until 2003.

In 2011, he was appointed Secretary General to the Federation by former President Goodluck Jonathan. He was alleged to have mishandled the governments secretariat and was arrested by the anti-graft agency, EFCC, shortly after he left office as SGF.

He was questioned for his role in the alleged mismanagement of the ecological fund while in office as SGF, among other matters.

Not much has been heard about him again.

10. Adolphus Wabara

Hw was the first president of the fifth Assembly of the Senate but his tenure lasted only from 2003 to 2005. Mr Wabara, from Abia State, was forced to resign in April 2005 over his alleged involvement in a bribery scandal with former education minister, Fabian Osuji.

He was later cleared of the allegation in March 2019 after a 14-year long battle in court. Not much has been heard of him.

11. Ken Nnamani

Ken Nnamani, from Enugu State, took over from Mr Wabara and held the position till the end of the session in 2007.

Under his tenure, the National Assembly remarkably killed the Third Term agenda of former president Olusegun Obasanjo when it threw out a bill to amend the constitution to remove the two-term limit for the president and state governors.

In December 2019, there were speculations that he had plans to defect to the Peoples Democratic Party from the APC but the latter in a statement, debunked the rumour.

Mr Nnamani has been somewhat quiet over the years.

12. David Mark

The longest serving presiding officer at the National Assembly, David Mark from Benue State, assumed the office of the senate president after the inauguration of the sixth assembly in June 2007. He retained the position in the seventh assembly till 2011.

He is known for his ardent support of the bill prohibiting same sex marriage in Nigeria.

In 2018, he ran for nomination as president under the PDP but was unsuccessful.

Mr Mark has since been off the radar.

13. Bukola Saraki

Former Senate President, Bukola Saraki

Bukola Saraki assumed office in June 2015 at the eight assembly under the platform of the APC.

His emergence was dramatic as it was against the wish of the party which had selected Ahmad Lawan for the position. For the first time, the senate president and his deputy belonged to different parties as his deputy, Ike Ekweremadu, was of the PDP.

Mr Saraki defected to the PDP in 2018 in the build-up of the 2019 general elections. He, however, lost his bid for reelection to the senate from his Kwara Central district.

Mr Saraki was arraigned on a 13-count perjury charge at the Code of Conduct shortly after he assumed office. The Supreme Court cleared him of the allegations three years after.

He ran in the PDP 2019 presidential primaries but lost to Atiku Abubakar.

He has maintained a low profile but is still an active member of the PDP.

14. Ahmad Lawan

Ahmad Lawan, President of the Senate

Although he has been a senator since 2007, he was elected president of the upper chamber in June 2019 under the APC, beating Ali Ndume of the same party.

He was nominated by the APC for the position in 2015 but lost when Mr Saraki was returned unopposed in a controversial process.

He is currently the senate president, an active member of the party and a loyalist of President Muhammadu Buhari.

Speakers of the House

Jaja Wachuku is the first indigenous speaker of the House of Representatives from 1959 to 1960. He served under the NCNC.

Jaja Wachuku [Photo Credit: Wikipedia]

He died at the age of 78 at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu in 1996.

Ibrahim Jalo Waziri was elected speaker of the House in 1960.

He served in that capacity until the January 1966 military coup. He was the Wazrin Gombe until his death in 1987.

Edwin Ume-Ezeoke was the first speaker under the presidential system of government in the Second Republic. Mr Ume-Ezeoke ruled under the platform of the Nigerian Peoples Party from 1979 to 1983, a beneficiary of an accord between his party and the National Party of Nigeria.

He died in 2011.

Chacha Biam served briefly as speaker in 1983 under the NPN. His tenure lasted only three months before the Second Republic was sacked in the 1983 coup.

Agunwa Anaekwe from Anambra State, emerged speaker of the House in the third republic  a position he held between 19932 and November 1993.

His tenure was abrupted when General Abacha brought down democratic structures, despite campaigns by anti-democratic agents to oust him.

In 2016, he was named chairman of the Screening Appeal Committee for the 2016 Ondo State governorship election primaries for the APC.

He has managed to maintained a low profile over the years.

Salisu Buhari from Kano State was the first speaker of the House in the Fourth Republic between June and July 1999. He resigned over the certificate falsification scandal. He however apologised and has held several public offices since then.

In 2017, the then Acting President, Yemi Osinbajo, inaugurated the board of the Nigerian Industrial Policy and Competitiveness Advisory Council of which Salisu Buhari was a member.

He had been off the radar until then.

*Ghali NaAbba, also from Kano State, replaced Mr Buhari. He survived several impeachment plots to keep the position till 2003 but was denied renomination by the PDP for the general election of that year.

Debunking rumours of his death in May, Mr NaAbba said he was stuck in London.

Aminu Masari from Katsina State, emerged speaker of the House in the fifth assembly and held the position from 2003 to 2007. He is said to have brought maturity to the leadership of the House.

In 2015, he was elected governor of Katsina State and was reelected in March 2019.

Patricia Etteh, the first and only female lawmaker elected speaker of the House, was a member of the PDP and became House speaker in 2007.

But barely five months later, she lost the position following a scandal over the award of a N628 million contract for the upgrade of her official residence and that of her deputy, Babangida Nguroje.

Not much has been heard about her.

Dimeji Bankole from Ogun State replaced Ms Etteh also under the PDP and held the position from 2007 to 2011. He is remembered for suspending some members of the parliament indefinitely for fighting in the chamber.

He contested for the governorship position in Ogun State in 2019 and lost to Dapo Abiodun.

Not much has been heard of him since then.

Aminu Tambuwal succeeded Mr Bankole in 2011 under the PDP, serving as the tenth speaker of the House  a position he held till 2015.

He became governor of Sokoto State in 2015 after he defected to APC in 2014. Mr Tambuwal returned to PDP and ran in the PDP presidential primary for the 1999 election but lost and proceeded to seek re-election as governor in his state in 2019, which he won.

He is currently governor of the state and a chieftain of the PDP.

Yakubu Dogara, from Bauchi State, emerged speaker in June 2015 under the platform of the APC. His emergence was against the plan of the party. He, like Mr Saraki and many others, defected to the PDP in 2018.

Although he was re-elected for a second term in 2019, he lost his seat as speaker.

Mr Dogara recently rejoined the APC, citing breakdown of governance in his home state of Bauchi that had in 2019 elected a PDP governor.

Femi Gbajabiamila, in a somewhat smooth transition, emerged speaker of the House in June 2019 under the APC. He, like Mr Lawan, was the partys preferred candidate.

The 59-year old is one of the longest serving lawmakers in the National Assembly. An active member of the APC, he is a loyalist of the president.
GAINESVILLE, Fla. --- New research shows the glaring light in human-altered landscapes, such as livestock pastures and crop fields, can act as a barrier to big-eyed birds, potentially contributing to their decline.

Florida Museum of Natural History researchers found strong links between bird eye size, habitat and foraging technique. Birds that kept to the shade of the forest had larger eyes than those that inhabited the canopy, and birds with relatively small eyes were more numerous in agricultural settings.

The findings suggest eye size is an overlooked, but important trait in determining birds' vulnerability to changes in their habitat and could help inform future research on their sensitivity to other bright environments, such as cities.

"Many bird species literally disappear from highly disturbed, anthropogenic habitats such as agricultural landscapes," said lead author Ian Ausprey, a Ph.D. student in the Florida Museum's Ordway Lab of Ecosystem Conservation and a National Geographic Explorer. "That's probably due to many reasons, but this paper suggests light could be part of that."

Despite numerous studies on how light influences the makeup of plant communities, little research has focused on how it drives the ecology of vertebrates. Ausprey said while some of the study's results may seem like "a no-brainer," it is the first to document the relationships between light, eye size and how birds navigate their world.

Light is especially key for birds, which use their vision to detect food. Big eyes house more photoreceptors and are a common feature in birds of prey such as owls and raptors, enabling them to resolve images at longer distances and in darker settings.

But large eyes can also be susceptible to overexposure and glare in bright environments. Previous research has shown too much light can overwhelm birds, causing them to alter their feeding behavior and diminish their alertness to threats.

For four years, Ausprey and fellow University of Florida Ph.D. student Felicity Newell, a study co-author, surveyed birds in the cloud forests of northern Peru, part of the tropical Andes, a global biodiversity hotspot. In these forests, light is structured on a vertical gradient, powerful at the canopy and increasingly weaker as it filters down to the darkest parts of the understory. Gaps in the canopy open up patches of startling brightness, changing light intensity "over infinitesimally small scales," Ausprey said. "You can go from being very dark to very bright within inches."

The swift, dramatic changes in the landscape are mirrored in its variety of birds: A difference of 1,000 feet in elevation can uncover a completely distinct avian community.

The region is also home to small-scale farms with livestock pastures and vegetable fields, often interspersed with islands of remaining forest. The broad range of ambient light, from the deep, dark forest interior to wide open country, made an ideal model system for measuring birds' use of light, Newell said.

Ausprey and Newell measured eye size relative to body size in 240 species that make up the cloud forest bird community of Amazonas, their study region.

They found the largest-eyed insect-eating birds were "far-sighted" species, those that nab prey on the wing, such as flycatchers. Eye size in "near-sighted" species that hunt in the dimly lit understory increased the closer to the ground they lived. One such big-eyed species is the rufous-vented tapaculo, Scytalopus femoralis, a bird only found in Peru. Ausprey said the species behaves much like a mouse, scuttling across the forest floor in search of insects in mossy logs and under tree roots.

For bird groups that eat fruit, seeds and nectar - food items that don't require capture - eye size did not vary based on which part of the forest they inhabited.

The researchers also attached tiny light-sensing backpacks to 71 birds representing 15 focal species. The sensors tracked the intensity of light the birds encountered over a period of days, providing a first look at their light "micro-environments."

Of these 15 species, the bird that inhabited the darkest environment was the rusty-tinged antpitta, Grallaria przewalskii, another species exclusive to Peru, which spends much of its life walking along the forest floor. The blue-capped tanager, Thraupis cyanocephala, lived in the brightest environments.

The researchers also found that eye size was correlated with the abundance of a species in agricultural settings, with smaller-eyed birds being more common, suggesting that birds better adapted to the dark forest understory would struggle to adjust to the flood of light in a field, Ausprey said.

Preliminary results from subsequent research suggest these patterns hold at a global scale. The trend might also carry over into urban areas, which "are basically extreme forms of agricultural landscapes in some ways," he said.

In fact, the rufous-collared sparrow, Zonotrichia capensis, the bird most commonly found in agricultural fields, is also the most abundant species in Latin American cities, Newell said.

The study is the first to emerge from Ausprey and Newell's project, which examined how climate and land use influence cloud forest birds.

"This study makes excellent use of emerging technologies to answer one of the major questions in ecology - how do light levels affect the niches of birds and their vulnerability to habitat modification," said Scott Robinson, Ordway Eminent Scholar at the Florida Museum.

But the technology required a bit of MacGyvering: The light sensors don't directly transmit data, meaning Ausprey had to figure out a way to get them back. The solution was to superglue a radio tag to the delicate sensor and use a surgical adhesive to attach the packet to a bird's back, sticking long enough to get meaningful information, but detaching after a few days. Ausprey would then clamber over steep ridges and through thick shrubs and bamboo, antenna in hand, to retrieve it.

They also had to select the bird species that would cooperate: Large tanagers, toucans and woodcreepers were excluded due to their strong bills and proclivity for aggressive behavior. Even so, three of the expensive, imported sensors wound up chewed and destroyed.

"When you work with technology in the field, you have to have a strong stomach for tragedy," Ausprey said.

Ausprey and Newell expressed thanks to the large team - about 100 people - of field assistants, hosts, nature reserve staff and community members that contributed to the project.

Ausprey is also a fellow with the UF Biodiversity Institute.

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MIAMISBURG, Ohio, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Verso Corporation (NYSE: VRS) today announced that Adam St. John has resigned as President and Chief Executive Officer and as a member of the Board of Directors, effective as of September 30, 2020. The Verso Board of Directors has named Randy J. Nebel, a current member of the Board, as interim President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Nebel will also continue to serve as a member of Verso's Board. Verso's Board will commence a search for a permanent President and Chief Executive Officer, and plans to engage a national executive search firm to help identify and evaluate qualified candidates.

Mr. Nebel joined Verso's Board in 2019 and has extensive paper and packaging industry knowledge and experience. He previously served as Executive Vice President of Integrated Packing at KapStone Paper and Packaging Corporation, where he oversaw manufacturing and direct customer commercial operations. He was formerly President of Longview Fibre Paper and Packing, Inc. and is a past member of the Board of Directors of the National Association of Manufacturers and the American & Forest Paper Association.

Sean Erwin, Chairman of the Board, said, "We are pleased that a leader of Randy's caliber is stepping into the interim President and CEO role while we search for a permanent successor to Adam."

"On behalf of the entire Board, I would like to thank Adam for his many contributions to Verso during his years of service," said Erwin. "We wish him well in his future endeavors."

Mr. Nebel stated, "I'm honored to take on the interim President and CEO role and continue the work of building a stronger, more flexible operating model, delivering the highest quality of products and service to our customers, and creating long-term value for all of our stakeholders."

About Verso

Verso Corporation is the turn-to company for those looking to successfully navigate the complexities of paper sourcing and performance. A leading North American producer of graphic and specialty papers, packaging papers and pulp, Verso provides insightful solutions that help drive improved customer efficiency, productivity, brand awareness and business results. Verso's longstanding reputation for quality and reliability is directly tied to our vision to be a company with passion that is respected and trusted by all. Verso's passion is rooted in ethical business practices that demand safe workplaces for our employees and sustainable wood sourcing for our products. This passion, combined with our flexible manufacturing capabilities and an unmatched commitment to product performance, delivery and service, make Verso a preferred choice among commercial printers, paper merchants and brokers, converters, publishers and other end users. For more information, visit us online at versoco.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

In this press release, all statements that are not purely historical facts are 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 may be identified by the words "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "project," "plan," "estimate," "intend," "potential" and other similar expressions. They include, for example, statements relating to our ability to build a stronger and more flexible operating model and to create long-term value for our stakeholders. Forward-looking statements are based on currently available business, economic, financial, and other information and reflect management's current beliefs, expectations, and views with respect to future developments and their potential effects on Verso. Actual results could vary materially depending on risks and uncertainties that may affect Verso and its business. Verso's actual actions and results may differ materially from what is expressed or implied by these statements due to a variety of factors, including: our ability to attract and integrate a new President and Chief Executive Officer; uncertainties regarding the duration and severity of the COVID-19 pandemic and measures intended to reduce its spread; the long-term structural decline and general softening of demand facing the paper industry; adverse developments in general business and economic conditions; developments in alternative media, which are expected to adversely affect the demand for some of Verso's key products, and the effectiveness of Verso's responses to these developments; intense competition in the paper manufacturing industry; Verso's ability to compete with respect to certain specialty paper products for a period of two years after the closing of the Pixelle Sale; Verso's business being less diversified following the sale of two mills after the closing of the Pixelle Sale; Verso's dependence on a small number of customers for a significant portion of its business; Verso's limited ability to control the pricing of its products or pass through increases in its costs to its customers; changes in the costs of raw materials and purchased energy; negative publicity, even if unjustified; any failure to comply with environmental or other laws or regulations, even if inadvertent; legal proceedings or disputes; any labor disputes; and the potential risks and uncertainties described under the caption "Risk Factors" in Verso's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, Verso's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the three months ended March 31, 2020, and from time to time in Verso's other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Verso assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement made in this press release to reflect subsequent events or circumstances or actual outcomes.

Investor Contact:

[email protected]

937-528-3220

Media Contact:

Shawn Hall, Director, Communications

937-528-3700

[email protected]

SOURCE Verso Corporation

Related Links

http://versoco.com


The European Commission has started infringement procedures with Boris Johnsons government over the controversial UK Internal Market Bill, Ursula von der Leyen said.

The UK Government has signalled it could tear up elements of the package relating to Northern Ireland in the UK Internal Market Bill, which cleared the Commons this week.

The European Union had called for the UK to withdraw the elements of the legislation which would breach international law by the end of September.

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said the letter gave Boris Johnsons government a month to send its response.

The commission will continue to work hard towards a full and timely implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement, she said.

We stand by our commitments.

In response to the UK Internal Market Bill, which breaches international law by tearing up parts of the Brexit divorce deal, European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said she was commencing infringement proceedings.

She said: We had invited our British friends to remove the problematic parts of their draft Internal Market Bill by the end of September.

This draft bill is, by its very nature, a breach of the obligation of good faith laid down in the Withdrawal Agreement.

Moreover, if adopted as is it will be in full contradiction of the protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland.

The deadline lapsed yesterday, the problematic provisions have not been removed."

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen is expected to make a statement at around 10am UK time on the Brexit divorce deal.

The UK Government has signalled it could tear up elements of the package relating to Northern Ireland in the UK Internal Market Bill, which cleared the Commons this week.

The European Union had called for the UK to withdraw the elements of the legislation which would breach international law by the end of September removed.

Therefore this morning the commission have decided to send a letter of formal notice to the UK Government. This is the first step in an infringement procedure.
The anger over the gang-rape and murder of a Dalit woman in Uttar Pradeshs Hathras district is likely to resonate in neighboring Bihar where assembly elections are scheduled to begin by the end of October. The incident has provided an issue for the Opposition parties in Bihar to corner the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) which is ruling Uttar Pradesh under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

A fortnight after being allegedly gang-raped by four upper caste men, the 19-year-old Dalit woman from Hathras succumbed in a Delhi hospital on September 29. She was cremated by police in the night triggering public outcry amid allegations that the family was not even allowed to be part of the last rites. A few hours later, another 22-year-old Dalit woman died after she had allegedly been gang-raped by two youths in Balrampur district of Uttar Pradesh.

Facing criticism over the crimes, the UP government set up a three-member Special Investigation Team(SIT) to probe the Hathras incident. The government also announced a compensation of Rs 25 Lakh for the victims family, a government job for a family member, and a house in Hathras city. But it didnt stop the Opposition parties, the Samajwadi Party, the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and the Congress, to launch an attack on the BJP.

Bihar will vote in three phases beginning October 28. Chief minister Nitish Kumar-led Janata Dal (United) and its allies in the NDA, including the BJP, are aiming to retain power in the state. The ruling coalition is being challenged by the GrandAlliance comprising the Tejashwi Yadav-led Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), the Congress and other smaller parties. BSP chief Mayawati was among the first leaders to blame UP government and UP police for the insensitivity in the crime while demanding resignation of the Chief Minister.

Yogi Adityanath should resign if he cant ensure safety of women. I urge the Central government to send him to his place-Gorakhnath Math. If he doesnt like the temple he should be given the task of Ram Temple construction, the former UP CM told news agency ANI on October 1. Mayawati had on September 29 announced that her party will fight the elections in Bihar in alliance with Upendra Kushwaha's Rashtriya Lok Samta Party (RLSP) and other parties. Kushwaha had recently severed ties with the Grand Alliance.

Dalits comprise nearly 16 percent of the state's population which is sizeable enough to sway the electoral outcomes for the parties. Of the 243 seats in the Assembly, 38 are reserved for Scheduled Castes (Dalits). It is not for nothing that both alliances are trying to outdo each other in wooing Dalit voters. In the 2015 assembly polls, the RJD bagged 14 of the SC seats, the JD(U) 10, and the Congress and BJP five each while the remaining four were won by other parties. Former Deputy CM and RJD leader Tejashwi Prasad Yadav also attacked the BJP over the Harthras gangrape.

This incident has once again exposed BJPs anti-Dalit character. Thecountry knows now that Beti Bachao was not a slogan but a warning, Yadav said in a tweet on September 30. The incident happened at a time when BJP is having a tough time in stitching up an alliance with the Chirag Paswans Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) to consolidate SC votes. Of the 22 sub-cases with SC, Paswans, the core voters of the LJP, are significant comprising nearly 4.5% of states voters. Having met little electoral success among SCs, BJP wants Paswan on board along with former CM Jitan Ram Manji whose Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) is also popular among SCs.

Election is almost one month away. But if the protests continue, it is likely to impact BJPs prospects. But I think, the way Yogi Adityanath reacted after the call with the PM,the anger will be taken care of, said a BJP leader who did not want to be named.

Congress party, part of the Grand Alliance, has also tried to corner BJP. On October 1, Congress said that its former president Rahul Gandhi and his sister and party general secretary in-charge of Uttar Pradesh Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will visit the family of the Harthras victim.

The atrocities on daughters continue in UPs jungle raj. They were not given respect when alive and the dignity has been snatched even in their death. The BJPs slogan of Beti Bachao is not to save girls but to hide facts, Rahul Gandhi said in a tweet in Hindi. His sister Priyanka also tweeted.

A gruesome incident like Harthras has happened in Balrampur.There is no limit to Uttar Pradeshsjungle raj.. This is about time that the CM is held accountable, she said. A day before, theCongress had demanded Yogi Adityanaths resignation. Partys interim president Sonia Gandhi said in a video message that the Nirbhaya of Hathras was killed by a cruel and insensitive government.

The three-phase polling will be held at 1, 06,527 polling booths across 38 districts of Bihar, many of which were affected by floods recently. Bihar has 72 million registered voters, according to the Election Commission of India.

The 2015 assembly election in Bihar was held over five phases from October 12 to November 5, and the results were declared on November 8. The elections saw a 56.8 percent voter turnout, the highest for the state in the last 15 years.
The Electoral Commission (EC) in Tamale has expressed surprise at the overwhelming number of eligible voters who turned out to register in the ECs one-day voter registration exercise.

The electoral roll has been opened from 7 am to 6 pm today, October 1, 2020, at its district offices for persons who could not participate in the mass registration exercise organised in June and July.

At the Tamale district office of the EC, hundreds of eligible voters had queued to register for the voter ID card.

But as at about 9:30 am only 28 people had registered to vote.

Speaking to Citi News the District EC boss, Bismarck Nteh, said the office has made provision for two machines to quicken the registration process.

Mr. Nteh noted that the commission started the registration process late because of a problem with coding our kit.

We are surprised that we have such a huge number this morning. We were not expecting such a huge number in Tamale this morning.

At the time of the major registration, we thought we had registered almost all the people but to come and see such a huge number, I was surprised.

There have been general complaints about the slow pace of the process.

In the Ashaiman District, the registration process started after a two-hour delay and some of the registrants also lamented the delays.

In the Ashanti Region, a number of persons within the Asawase constituency who visited the Asokore Mampong Municipal EC office complained about the slow pace of the process.

These concerned compelled the leadership of the National Democratic Congress in the Asawase Constituency to question the readiness of the EC to effectively carry out with the exercise.

It fears many applicants will not be able to register due to the slow nature of the process.

It has thus called for the exercise to be extended.

We are calling on the Electoral Commission at least increase the days because looking at the people in the queue and looking at how the registration process is going on, we can register all these people by the close of the day, Mugis Mahdi, the NDC Constituency Secretary for Asawase said.

---citinewsroom
Job Title: HIV/TB Clinical Care

Coordinator

Organization: Infectious

Diseases Institute (IDI)

Funding Source: Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/PEPFAR

Duty Station:

Uganda

Reports to: Field

Office Coordinator

Vacancy Code: CCO X012

About US:

The mission of the

Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) is to Strengthen Health Systems in Africa

with strong emphasis on Infectious Diseases through Research and Capacity

Development. IDI has six operational areas through which it works to achieve

its mission: Prevention, Care and Treatment, Training, Research, Laboratory

services (including the CAP-certified IDI Core Lab & Translational Lab),

Global Health Security and Health System Strengthening Programmes.

With funding from Centres for Disease Control and Prevention

(CDC)/PEPFAR, and in partnership with MoH and respective District Local

Governments, IDI is implementing comprehensive HIV/AIDS services in the West

Nile region of Uganda under the project Accelerating and Sustaining HIV

Epidemic Control and Related Diseases in West-Nile Region of Uganda under the

Presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), 2020-2025. The project

supports the 12 districts of; Arua, Maracha, Madi-Okollo, Terego, Koboko,

Yumbe, Moyo, Obongi, Adjumani, Pakwach, Nebbi and Zombo.

Job Summary: The

Clinical Care Coordinator is responsible for working with the hospital

management to ensure that HIV service delivery is implemented at the hospital

per the work plan, within the broader mandate of the MOH and ACP. He/she will

take a leadership as well as a technical role in the provision

Key Duties and

Responsibilities:

Team Leadership,

Coordination and Supervision: The

clinical care coordinator works collaboratively with hospital management to

support performance management of project supported staff providing HIV

Services.



Work

with heads of departments to ensure project supported staff have clear work

targets and that evaluations and appraisals are completed on time



Ensure

that time worked by all staff is recorded on time sheets and correctly endorsed

by the designated supervisors



Authorized

Leave is documented in line with the hospital policy



Ensures

performance issues and indiscipline are addressed promptly, properly

documented, and exemplary performance is recognized in line with HR policies



Build

and maintain an effective performing team

Clinical Care

Services: Provide technical

assistance for HIV care and is the lead for the clinical team in the provision

of services in line with national guidelines



Ensure

presence of clinical staff to provide uninterrupted services at the HIV clinic

(collaborate with hospital supervisors to establish monthly duty rosters)



Conducting

weekly clinical meetings and keep a record of meeting minutes with action

points and follow-on actions



Conduct

monthly and quarterly data reviews to analyse data, identify gaps and identify

suitable interventions.



Prepare

and submit reports and presentations as due in collaboration with the M&E

team and other members of the clinical team



Coordinate

HIV clinic QI activities and provide support for the hospital QI focal person.

Progress data on QI projects being implemented and QI functionality reports



Provide

technical support for HIV preventive services including HIV Counselling and

Testing.



Work

collaboratively with the HIV service delivery team to ensure functional linkages

within the hospital

Coordination and

Monitoring of Laboratory Hub Performance: The clinical care coordinator works in liaison with hospital management

to ensure the laboratory hub functions optimally



Obtain

weekly management supervision checklist. Support the hospital director to

ensure this is completed and submitted in time.



Liaise

with the Hospital Laboratory In-Charge and IDI laboratory team to ensure

laboratory equipment are maintained and repaired in line with available

schedules



Support

the Hub Coordinator in Laboratory hub rider scheduling, and ensuring the back-up

rider is engaged when needed



Support

the Hub Coordinator in ensuring the hub motorbike is maintained and the repair

schedules are adhered to, to minimize down-time.



Work

with the hub coordinator to plan for the Bi-annual laboratory hub review

meetings in liaison with project laboratory technical supervisory team.

Administration: The clinical care coordinator in liaison with

the Arua Field Office Coordinator performs the administrative role on behalf of

the project at the hospital.



Ensure

timely submission of documentation to requisition and account for funds for

project supported activities at the hospitals.



Any

other related duties as may be assigned from time to time

Qualifications, Skills and

Experience:



The

applicant must hold a Bachelor of medicine and surgery degree from a recognized

institution



Post

graduate training in Public Health or related Medical Field.



Additional

certified training in HIV/AIDS management



Post

graduate training in project planning and management



Active

registration with the Uganda Medical and Dental Practitioners Council



At least

4-5 years of experience in clinic or hospital-based services. Experience in

HIV/AIDS and ART management is critical.



A good

understanding of PEPFAR care and reporting requirements.

How to Apply:

All suitably

qualified and interested candidates should send their CVs, including details of

email address, present position, current remuneration, Certificate/testimonials

and address of three (3) Referees plus telephone contact to the stipulated

email address. Email your application and CV to hr@idi.co.ug

Key Notes:



IDI is

an equal opportunity employer and does not charge a recruitment fee or any

other fees at any stage of the recruitment process.



Internal

candidates who meet the required specifications and have worked with IDI for a

period of at least one year will be given priority.



Make

sure that your application letter, CV (Not more than 4pages) and certificates

are attached as one PDF document.



Indicate

the Vacancy Code as the subject line of your email.



Please

note that if you DO NOT indicate the vacancy code as instructed above, your

application will not be considered.



Any form

of canvassing will lead to automatic disqualification.



Only

shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

The Senior Human Resource Manager

Infectious Diseases

Institute  IDI Knowledge Centre, Makerere University Main Campus College of

Health Sciences, Makerere University

P.O. Box 22418,

Kampala, Uganda

Deadline: 4th October 2020

For more of the

latest jobs, please visit https://www.theugandanjobline.com or find us on our facebook page https://www.facebook.com/UgandanJobline






Ukrainian Minister for Development of Economy, Trade and Agriculture Ihor Petrashko and representatives of the U.S. investment company Argentem Creek discussed potential investment projects, the ministrys press service wrote on its Facebook page.

A new legislative platform is being formed in Ukraine to strengthen Ukraine's investment potential - the so-called investment nanny bill. In addition, concession legislation on public-private partnership has already been improved. A list of priority investment projects is currently being formed. The office of UkraineInvest has also been reset. All these actions are a good signal for investors, said Petrashko.

The participants of the meeting discussed potential investment projects, in particular, in the agro-industrial complex, production, engineering industry, IT sector, and transport infrastructure. The parties agreed to continue the dialogue in order to develop future plans in Ukraine for the next months and years.

Argentem Creek is a leading U.S. company specializing in financing projects in the emerging markets. It is headquartered in New York. The company has been operating in Ukraine for six years. Ten years before, the company operated as Black River, part of Cargill.

iy
Lheidli Tenneh Nation Dayi Clay Pountney and McLeod Lake Indian Band Chief Harley Chingee signed a letter to School District 57 this week, calling for an addition of two Indigenous trustees to the school board.

The only way our communities can ensure that our students and other Indigenous students are receiving the support they deserve is for our communities to have a trustee making decisions at the board of education table, Pountney said in a statement.

The designation of trustees for the Robson Valley and Mackenzie was cited as a precedent for the move, which Pountney said would raise the number of trustees on the board to nine. He said the trustees would be elected by their respective band members.

Someone who is qualified and would take on that workload, because a trustee job is not an easy job, Pountney added during a press conference at Uda Dune Baiyoh where the letter signing was held.

This isnt a job where you just show up without having prior knowledge or being more aware of whats going on in the district. I dont know how many hours youd have to put in during a week, but its quite a bit.

Letters Pountney sent to the school board and to the Ministry of Education in June on the issue went before the school board at its regular public meeting. The letters werent raised for discussion.

In the one to the school board, Pountney said the band had received a letter from Education Minister Rob Fleming that appears to follow on a similar call by Pountney made in May 2019 for an Indigenous trustee.

In it, he said that while Fleming said he does not have the power to appoint trustees as they are all elected positions, there is nothing preventing the board from having a Lheidli Tenneh members sit at the table during public board meetings on the understanding that they would not have the ability to vote.

Pountney went on to request that the school board appoint two Indigenous advisory board positions - one for LTN and one for MLIB - and then work with the ministry to amend the School Act to make them permanent voting positions or to create two trustee positions similar to those for the Robson Valley and Mackenzie.

In April 2018, Fleming announced the school district will be changed to a ward system for the coming election, with a trustee elected by voters in each of Mackenzie and the Robson Valley.

The changes were made after requests by the District of Mackenzie, the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George and the Village of Valemount.

It was not popular with trustees at the time. A letter sent by board chairperson Tim Bennett to Fleming said that trustees had voted unanimously to support the current at-large system.

On Tuesday, flagging graduation rates among Indigenous youth, a bigger say on how money designated for Indigenous students is spent and the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples were among the reasons cited by Pountney and Chingee for demanding the Indigenous trustees.

Chingee said it is part of a larger strategy to ensure members are getting educated, getting a good job, earning a good living.

Bennett said the board is planning to meet with the Lheidli Tenneh and McLeod Lake Indian Band councils to discuss the issue, adding that the board has previously met with Pountney and the Lheidli Tenneh council to explore the topic.

We heard this is their number one educational priority and, as a board, we need to respond to that. These are conversations the board looks forward to having, Bennett said. Were being asked for our support... but ultimately the decision is from the Ministry of Education.

Students who self-identity as Indigenous normally make up more than 30 per cent of the student population in School District 57, he said.

By contrast, when Mackenzie and the Robson Valley seats were added to the school board in 2018, they represented just 7.2 per cent of the districts student population.

There may be many more students of Indigenous heritage who havent self-identified, Bennett added. The school district is working to answer questions families have about self-identifying, he said, and the district may see higher numbers as Indigenous families and students opt to self-identify as Indigenous.

While the district has recently seen the graduation rates for Indigenous students on the rise, the graduation rate remains well below that of non-Indigenous students, Bennett said.

Our Indigenous graduation rates have not even hit 70 per cent, he said. We have a long way to go to bring those rates up to (the rate for non-Indigenous students), or even higher.

 With files from Arthur Williams

Read more about:
Monica Lewinsky has revealed that a group of armed men tried to carjack her in 2011, sending her into an emotional crisis that required years of therapy.

Lewinsky, who became a household name in the 90s after her affair with Bill Clinton almost cost him his presidency, opened up about the traumatic experience in a personal essay for Vanity Fair on Thursday.

Nine years later, the 47-year-old said she's come to see The Gun Incident, as she calls it, as a metaphor for the coronavirus pandemic because Americans have spent months 'threatened with death and disruption'.

Lewinsky said that she never would have made it through that dark period in her life without counseling - and she doesn't believe that people will make it through the current health crisis without access to help as well.

She is now calling for the federal government to establish a 'mental health czar' on the same level as Dr Anthony Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases who has led the US response to COVID-19, to help the country cope with the lasting effects of the pandemic in the years to come.

Monica Lewinsky (pictured) revealed that she underwent years of therapy after a group of armed men tried to carjack her in 2011 in a personal essay for Vanity Fair on Thursday

Lewinsky is calling for the federal government to establish a 'mental health czar' on the same level as Dr Anthony Fauci (pictured), the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases who has led the US response to COVID-19

Lewinsky opened her essay by recounting the attempted carjacking, which she said took place at around 10.30pm on March 10, 2011, in Los Angeles.

She was talking on the phone with a friend while driving home from a Meshell Ndegeocello concert when she decided to pull over onto a residential street a few blocks from her apartment 'to focus on our conversation'.

'It must be safe here,' she thought to herself, noting that the street was well-lit and there was a man walking by with his dogs.

About five minutes later she heard voices but figured it was just people arriving home. A bright light reflected off of her side mirror for a moment before cutting off as a man appeared at her door.

'I assume he wants directions, but I am alone, and it is nighttime,' she wrote. 'As I am about to shoo him away, I look up into his face. It is then I see a menacing look about him, and as I glance away I notice something - he is gripping a gun, brandished at his waist.

'I am looking straight down the barrel of A Gun. I feel pure terror. Panic courses through my veins, and "what if I die" thoughts rumble through my head. I duck and brace to hear a gunshot, imagining next: I'll be shot in the back. But for my own heartbeat, it's silent, like the moment before an avalanche.

'And then, "Get out of the car, bitch!"'

Suddenly a second person started yanking on Lewinsky's locked passenger side door.

'There are voicesplural. I understand that this is a groupwith a gun. This jolts me into survival mode,' she wrote.

'I jam my Prius into drive, gun the accelerator, and move forward with my head down. Tires squealing. Praying there are no cars parked in front of me. I speed away in horror.'

Lewinsky is pictured in 2013 when she was still reeling from the attempted carjacking

While Lewinsky successfully fled from her attackers, the nightmare didn't end there.

In the following weeks she said she found herself completely off-kilter, unable to make rational decisions and constantly paranoid about the smallest sounds around her.

'What I used to tell myself was "Oh, just the upstairs neighbor," becomes, "Maybe someone is in the apartment?"' she wrote. 'In situations like these, the heuristics we use to discern danger become obsolete. How can I learn to trust the world again?'

Lewinsky said she's been in therapy for years, but that she had to increase her counseling substantially after that night.

'The trauma required someone to walk me through both the shock and terror of a potentially deadly experience: an expert who could help me begin to navigate a new normal,' she wrote.

'In an instant, I had entered a world that would never be the same for me again, and yet, yet, I also wanted to be able to move into this new worldand function. There was anxiety, depression, and fear.'

Lewinsky then explained why she chose to speak out about that experience now nearly a decade later, writing: 'What if I told you that for me, The Gun Incident (as it lives in my brain) has become a metaphor for what's transpired for all of us this past yearsince we've been threatened with death and disruption brought on by the coronavirus?

'Lately, I have asked myself this question: Could I have moved forward from that moment without any assistance with my mental health and state of well-being? Probably.

'But having had that helpthat guidancemade a world of difference in metabolizing the trauma of the experience and navigating a new terrain.'

Lewinsky said that she never would have made it through the trauma of the attempted carjacking without counseling - and she doesn't believe that people will make it through the current health crisis without access to help as well

She then broke down a number of ways in which the pandemic has upended American life - forcing people indoors and isolating them from friends and relatives for months before everyone started easing back into a new normal.

'How do we step out into this new worldemotionally? What about the mental health costs of the underlying anxiety of the times?' she asked.

'There's an authority figure and voice that has been missing from the COVID-19 conversation since day one: a mental health commissioner or czar. In other words, a mental health version of Anthony Fauci.'

Lewinsky outlined her proposal for an authoritative expert who could brief the American people on 'what is normal to feel in a global pandemic?'

She questioned how different the crisis would have been if such a position had been made at the start of the pandemic so that mental health was given as much attention as physical health.

'I'm not suggesting that since the beginning of the crisis no one has mentioned a blip about our emotional states,' she wrote. 'What I'm suggesting, instead, is that the administration has overlooked a dire needand that decision is a reflection of our values and priorities in this country.'

But Lewinsky insisted that its not to late to rectify the situation, as the pandemic's effects on mental health will likely last for years, so there's still time to bring someone in to address them.

Read Lewinsky's full essay here.
WASHINGTON  A judge declined on Thursday to dismiss a federal lawsuit against John R. Bolton, President Trumps former national security adviser, in which the Justice Department is seeking to seize his $2 million advance and any future proceeds from his recently published memoir.

In a 27-page opinion, Judge Royce C. Lamberth of the Federal District Court for the District of Columbia rejected an argument by Mr. Boltons legal team that the case should be thrown out, saying the government had put forth a valid legal complaint.

The government alleges that Bolton shared his manuscript with Simon & Schuster, and Bolton never received written authorization to share his book. Accordingly, the complaint sufficiently alleges that Bolton violated his prepublication review obligation by sharing his manuscript before the review ended, Judge Lamberth wrote, adding that none of Mr. Boltons contrary arguments are convincing.

The case centers on a dispute over how Mr. Bolton went about publishing his book, The Room Where It Happened, which is highly critical of Mr. Trump. He had signed several nondisclosure agreements as a condition of receiving access to classified information. The agreements are generally understood to require officials to submit future writings about their work to a prepublication review process meant to ensure they contain no classified information.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. Most of the Azerbaijani servicemen who were killed in action since September 27 were representatives of national minorities living in Azerbaijan, Artsakhs presidential spokesperson Vahram Poghosyan said citing intelligence data.

This is clear intelligence data. We can announce that in one direction alone 148 ethnic Lezgins of the Azeri military died, as well as a few hundred ethnic Talish soldiers, he said.

He said they have intelligence reports that this has caused serious concerns among the national minorities of Azerbaijan and soon these citizens of Azerbaijan are likely to start protests against the Baku leadership.

Poghosyan said the Artsakh military is in full control of the situation and that all enemy actions will receive a worthy and adequate response.

103 servicemen of the Artsakh military have been killed in the Azerbaijani attacks since September 27. Over 120 troops are wounded. 7 civilians were also killed in different cities of Artsakh as Azeri forces bombarded towns.

According to latest reports, the Azeri forces lost more than 920 servicemen in the their offensive operations with more than 2100 wounded. The Azeris have also lost 84 UAVs, 7 gunships, 166 tanks and armored equipment, 1 warplane and 1 Smerch launcher.

Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan
COLUMBIA  The state's $600 million settlement with the federal government over plutonium storage at the Savannah River Site has been frozen pending rulings on how it can be spent, including $75 million already sent to attorneys.

Judge Alison Lee ordered the attorneys who received the money Tuesday via wire transfer  hours before a hearing seeking to block the payout  not to spend or even commit any of the $75 million until questions about the massive amount are resolved.

Those attorneys must appear before her next week to argue why her freeze should be lifted.

A public watchdog group sued state Attorney General Alan Wilson last Friday, claiming the "astronomical" payout exceeds what state law allows, and that only the Legislature can decide how to distribute the settlement money. Wilson's office contends he had full authority to hire outside counsel and negotiate their fees and, on Tuesday, declared it moot anyway, since the money was already sent.

In a separate case that asks legislators to use the windfall primarily to help the three counties encompassing the former nuclear weapons complex, Judge Clifton Newman temporarily blocked the entire amount.

A hearing on the request itself hasn't been set. But there's no immediate rush since the next budget debate in the Legislature is months away.

Gov. Henry McMaster has indicated he supports the reasoning behind that lawsuit.

"Yes, the area around the Savannah River Site is the area that ought to see at least the majority, a good majority, of these funds in one way or another," he told the Aiken Rotary Club on Monday. "It seems to me because of the way the case arose and where it arose that that area should be prominently figured in the expenditure or investment of those funds."

Wilson has also said he agrees that Aiken, Allendale and Barnwell counties should be the biggest beneficiaries of the settlement but recognizes how it's spent is a legislative decision.

The $600 million settlement that Wilson announced Aug. 31 ends a lawsuit he initially filed in 2016 over tons of weapons-grade plutonium that was supposed to be turned into fuel for commercial nuclear reactors, as part of a nonproliferation agreement with Russia 16 years earlier.

But with the plant to convert the plutonium behind schedule and over budget, the Obama administration scrapped it, and the Trump administration chose not to revive it, leaving the plutonium underground at SRS.

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By law, the federal government owed South Carolina up to $100 million yearly, beginning in 2016, for not meeting benchmarks for removal.

The settlement gave the U.S. Department of Energy an additional 15 years, until 2037, to get rid of all the plutonium it's shipped to SRS and prevents South Carolina from suing again until 2042.

While it's the Legislature's job to decide the spending details, the bulk of the money should go to projects benefiting the three counties directly hurt by the project's failure, argues Sen. Brad Hutto, who represents rural Barnwell and Allendale counties in the Statehouse and filed a lawsuit for the local governments.

Not only did they lose an expected 1,300 long-term, good-paying jobs when the mixed-oxide fuel facility was scrapped, other companies aren't locating there because of the radioactive material and likely won't for decades to come. That's especially true for Barnwell County, where the plutonium is actually buried, Hutto said.

"When they pulled the plug on the facility, we suffered two kinds of damages," he said.

Most of the 310-square-mile complex built in the 1950s to produce tritium and other materials for nuclear weapons, known by generations of locals as the "bomb plant," is in Barnwell County.

"Well have that label. It is a label and a stigma," Hutto said. "Nobody doesnt decide to go to Myrtle Beach because theres plutonium in Barnwell. But there are companies who decided not to locate in Allendale, Barnwell or Aiken because plutonium is buried there."

Generally, he thinks the money should go toward improving education, job creation and health care.

But his lawsuit doesn't specify how much should be spent in the counties or on which projects. Instead, he's seeking a declaration that the federal government intended for the money to offset damages caused by the plutonium's longer-term storage.

The Orangeburg Democrat likens his request to restrictions on federal highway money.

"There are many ways we can spend highway dollars, but we can't use them for beach renourishment," he said. "Legislatively, we recognize were not going to get all $600 million. Were just asking for a priority to make a case for the things we need to address the injuries weve suffered."
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 16:08:36|Editor: huaxia

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SHANGHAI, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Chinese citizens started their eight-day golden holiday on Thursday for the National Day and traditional Mid-Autumn Festival.

The superlong holiday is a season of tourism and consumption boom that is set to inject momentum into China's recovering economy.

Amid regular epidemic control, hundreds of millions of Chinese will be traveling for family reunions or leisure staycations after some trying months due to the COVID-19 epidemic.

During the holiday, the total number of domestic tourists nationwide is estimated to reach 550 million, while the total traffic volume of the expressway network is forecasted to reach 408 million and the railway is expected to transport 108 million passengers.

Xu Jie, a 35-year-old photographer with the Shanghai-based Spring Tour travel agency, celebrated the National Day with 15 local tourists. They took a city walk strolling along the Bund, an iconic scenic spot of the metropolis. He guided the visitors to catch sight of the magnificent sunrise on the Huangpu River.

"More and more people are developing a fondness for city walks, which can help them better understand the place. Especially since the outbreak of the COVID-19 epidemic, most people choose not to travel abroad to avoid risks of infection," said Xu.

Spring Tour has launched such city-stroll services in Shanghai to help people develop a deeper understanding of the city's history and culture.

"Photowalks led by Xu sold out quickly after they were launched. City strolls involving coffee tasting or watching performances are also quite popular," said Ke Yiming, marketing manager of Spring Tour. Enditem
Two of the defendants who were brought back this week, Emraan Ali and his son Jihad Ali, appeared in federal court in Miami on Wednesday. Emraan Ali, who also holds Trinidadian citizenship, and his son are charged with providing and conspiracy to provide material support to the Islamic State. Emraan Ali traveled to Syria with his family, including his son, in March 2015 to join the group, according to officials. There, the men received military and religious training and fought with the Islamic State, they said.
Janata Dal-Secular leader H D Kumaraswamy on Thursday made a sharp attack on erstwhile ally Congress, saying it was not a party worthy of an alliance and it does not honour coalition dharma.

A day after the Karnataka Congress ruled out any understanding with the regional party for the November 3 by-elections to two assembly constituencies in the state, the former chief minister hit back, declaring there was no such proposal from JD-S.

"....who had placed the proposal from the JD-S to have an alliance with the Congress? None of us have gone to Congress' doors like they had come to H D Deve Gowda's (JDS supremo) doors after the 2018 assembly polls," Kumaraswamy tweeted.

He was referring to the Congress forging the post-poll tie-up with JD-S under which he became the chief minister heading the coalition government, that had collapsed last year following rebellion by a section of MLAs from both parties.

The Congress was not a party worthy of an alliance, he said adding this was 'proved' by its conduct such as "bringing down" the coalition government led by him, luring of BSP MLAs supporting its government in Rajasthan to defect and its attempts to 'destabilise' the government in Maharashtra.

"There cannot be an alliance with Congress that does not honour the coalition dharma," Kumaraswamy said.

Whenever there was a reference to alliance in the state, let there be no feeling that it involved the Congress and the JD-S. Let Congress leaders don't try to take political mileage by using the names of JD-S and his father Deve Gowda, he said.

Congress Legislature Party leader Siddaramaiah and KPCC President D K Shivakumar on Wednesday had ruled out any possibility of an understanding with the JDS for the November 3 bypolls in the state.

The Election Commission on Tuesday had announced the schedule for by-election to Sira in Tumakuru district and Rajarajeshwari Nagar (R R Nagar) in Bengaluru.

The bypolls had been necessitated in Sira following the death of sitting MLA B Sathyanarayana of JD-S last month, while the R R Nagar seat fell vacant following the disqualification of Congress MLA N Munirathna under the anti-defection law last year.

The Congress has finalised former minister T B Jayachandra as its nominee from Sira, but is yet to find a candidate for R R Nagar.

The Bharatiya Janata Party and the Janata Dal-Secular are yet to name the candidates for both the seats.

Both the Congress and the JD-S that had formed a coalition government led by Kumaraswamy after 2018 assembly polls, parted ways following the collapse of government due to internal differences and defection from several legislators.
NEW DELHI : The monsoon withdrew from Delhi on Wednesday, with the city recording 20% less rainfall this season, the India Meteorological Department said.

The wind system had reached the national capital on June 25, two days earlier than normal, and stayed five days longer than usual. Normally, it withdraws from the city by September 25, Kuldeep Srivastava, the head of the regional forecasting center of the IMD, said.

"Change in the low-level wind pattern to north-westerlies, reduction in moisture content and cessation of rainfall indicates that the southwest monsoon has further withdrawn from some more parts of Rajasthan, remaining parts of Punjab, entire western Himalayan region, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi and some parts of Uttar Pradesh," the IMD said.

According to MeT department data, the city recorded 20% less rainfall this monsoon season. For smaller areas like Delhi, 19% more or less than long-period average rainfall (50 years) is considered normal". Between minus 20% and minus 59% is deficient", and anything less than that is "scanty".

"Therefore, the overall rainfall -- which is an average of rainfall measured by all automatic weather stations and rain gauges installed at several places -- falls in the deficient category this season," Srivastava said.

The Safdarjung Observatory, which provides representative figures for the city, recorded 576.5 mm rainfall against the normal of 648.9 mm during the entire season  a deficiency of 11%.

Earlier this year, the MeT department revised the date for the withdrawal of monsoon from Delhi from September 21 to September 25.

"The IMD revised the withdrawal date considering the trend in the last 20-25 years," Srivastava said.

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NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Green Street has sold Green Street Investors, an investment manager, resulting in a full divestment of its ownership interest. The decision reflects Green Street's commitment to growing the firm with a focus on its core offerings  research, news, data, analytics, and advisory services. Green Street Investors has been purchased by its two executive leaders and will now operate as GSI Capital Advisors.

"This is a positive change for Green Street as we continue to focus on our core objective of arming clients with the best actionable commercial real estate intelligence and analytics available," said Jeff Stuek, Green Street's Chief Executive Officer. "The decision also allows GSI Capital Advisors complete independence and flexibility to succeed," Stuek added.

Green Street has built a trusted reputation for more than 35 years as a third-party provider of objective and unbiased advice on public and private real estate markets. By not being affiliated with any commercial brokerage firm, investment bank, or lending operation, Green Street remains committed to its core value of uncompromising integrity, demonstrating the utmost honesty and candor to help shape the industry and deliver unique insights to clients.

GSI Capital Advisors has been purchased by Craig Leupold and Nicholas Tannura, who have been managing the business for the past several years. Craig and Nicholas will be joined by other team members currently running the operation. As a standalone entity, GSI Capital Advisors will continue investing in publicly traded real estate investment trusts (REITs), employing the same investment process that has generated index-beating performance for more than fourteen years.

"We are excited to introduce GSI Capital Advisors as a distinct and independently owned firm that will expand on its strong foundation and long and impressive track record," said Craig Leupold, Chief Executive Officer. "Our team has proven experience, capabilities, and results managing real estate securities for institutional investors and looks forward to the opportunities ahead."

About Green Street

Green Street provides preeminent and actionable commercial real estate research, news, data, analytics, and advisory services in the U.S. and Europe. For more than 35 years, Green Street has delivered unparalleled intelligence and trusted data on the public and private real estate markets, helping investors, banks, lenders, and other industry participants optimize investment and strategic decisions. The firm delivers exclusive market information, conclusion-driven insights, and predictive analytics through a SaaS platform. The company is headquartered in Newport Beach with offices in Hoboken, Dallas, and London. To learn more, please visit www.greenstreet.com .

About GSI Capital Advisors

GSI Capital Advisors is an investment manager with proven and focused expertise capitalizing on investment opportunities in publicly traded real estate securities, primarily REITs. The firm has a seasoned leadership and portfolio management team with extensive industry experience. Led by Craig Leupold and Nicholas Tannura, GSI Capital Advisors is management-owned and headquartered in Newport Beach, CA.

Contacts:

Green Street

Katie Clemons

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949-640-8780

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YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. The Defense Army of Artsakh says it shot down an attacking Azerbaijani gunship in the Varazatumb (Lele Tepe) area (southern section of line of contact) and the wreckage fell into Iranian territory.

The Defense Ministry of Artsakh is announcing  the abovementioned does not contain anything deliberate, and since the Azerbaijani-launched combat operations are taking place very close to the Iranian border, such incidents are unfortunately unavoidable, the Artsakh military said.

Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan
A Montgomery grandmother was arrested Thursday on a felony child abuse charge.

Sandia Jordan, 60, is charged with aggravated child abuse. Under state late, aggravated child abuse occurs when it happens on more than one occasion and results in serious injury to the child.

According to charging documents, the alleged crimes happened between January 2018 and this year. The victim is a 4-year-old boy who authorities say Jordan assaulted with a belt and a tape. No additional details were made public.

Jordan was arrested early Thursday and released a short time later after posting $30,000 bond. The case is under investigation by Montgomery police and the Department of Human Resources.
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.
CAMBRIDGE  Residents and health care workers say hostility toward homeless people, drug users, and advocates for harm reduction is rising in Cambridge.

Neighbourhood Watch Cambridge, a group formed in 2019 that opposes harm reduction as a health care approach, has a Facebook group that has become an outlet for people to express fears and frustration about what they perceive is an increase in crime.

Jayne Little, a Cambridge resident, said she was banned from the private online group after reporting posts for hate speech. Little said she quickly became concerned about vigilante words dominating the discussion wall.

People were posting about enacting violence, like we should carry bats, Im going to carry a bat and knife  that kind of information really concerned me when I read it.

Adam Cooper, one of the administrators and spokesperson for Neighbourhood Watch Cambridge, said the groups rules ask that people do not discriminate, and that the moderators of the group delete vitriolic posts that promote aggression toward anyone.

But as of Wednesday evening there were still posted comments that directly call for violent acts (Rats gets bats) or threaten some form of violence (Its a shame we cant just give them the punches in the face they deserve or bats to knees) in response to perceived criminal behaviour among substance users, most of whom are homeless.

Cooper said he and other administrators of the Facebook group are all busy people, and sometimes miss posts that violate their groups rules.

We all live our lives. Were not sitting there watching the group for hours. We are not responsible for these peoples actions.

Many posts include photos or videos of people and tent cities, along with descriptions of the sites and their locations.

David Lacalamita, a longtime Cambridge resident who recently moved to Kitchener, said this kind of surveillance of vulnerable people and sharing it to social media inflates the level of danger the general public perceives when they see homeless people and drug users.

When was the last time a child was wandering aimlessly through the woods into a homeless camp stabbing themselves on needles? There is no real threat here. What (people are) really doing is invading peoples privacy and posting their life on the internet without their consent.

Theres such a toxic vigilante culture in Cambridge thats very self-righteous, but addiction is a real thing in Cambridge and has been since I was a kid and so far it seems like the strategy is to just try to criminalize addicts or treat them like theyre causing problems.

Cooper said he and others have seen a sharp increase in crime over the last three years.

But Waterloo Regional Police Service data shows occurrences of public intoxication, drug use, disturbances (fighting, arguing, aggressive behaviour), robbery, and theft under $5,000 have declined by 19 per cent in Cambridge since 2017.

Despite this drop in crime, community concerns about public safety have led police to increase their presence in the downtown Galt area of the city. Cambridge council also plans to add four private security guards in Galt.

RELATED STORIES Waterloo Region Cambridge rally shows anger about drug users, harm reduction

Emma Elisabeth, a harm reduction nurse who has worked across the region, said she worries online posts such as those in the Neighbourhood Watch Cambridge group that denigrate drug users could perpetuate the aggression she has seen toward members of her community.

This is an issue that affects peoples lives. People will get emotional, Cooper said of people in the group who say they need to carry bats or pepper spray in order to defend themselves.

This is what you get with failing policies, this is what youre going to get, he said. People are not going to stop defending themselves.

In response to inquiries about vigilantism in Cambridge, Waterloo Regional Police spokesperson Cherri Greeno said police responded to a call Aug. 15 in the area of the Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail. Two people sustained minor injuries and one male was arrested and charged with assault with a weapon the next day, but Greeno couldnt say if the incident was linked to the Neighbourhood Watch Cambridge group or not.

Greeno went on to emphasize that the police would never encourage any resident to approach or address potentially dangerous situations and that they suggest (people) call 911 and allow police to respond.
The post-mortem report of the girl who was gang-raped and butally assaulted by four men in Uttar Pradesh's Hathras two weeks ago has revealed that she was strangulated and had also suffered fracture in her spine.

The post-mortem report has been prepared by Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi. It may be recalled that the 19-year-old girl had died at Safdarjung Hospital just a day after she was referred from Aligarh.

The post-mortem report revealed that the victim suffered fracture of "C6 cervical vertebra" and there was "extravasations of blood along the fracture line" and the underlying spinal cord was "contused with ascending oedema".

The post-mortem report also revealed that marks on the neck of the victim are consistent due to attempted strangulation.

"The ligature mark over the neck is consistent with attempted strangulation but (it) did not contribute to death in this case," the report said.

The post-mortem also mentioned that the cause of death will be confirmed by chemical analysis report of the viscera. It is learnt that the viscera of the victim has been preserved at Safadarjung Hospital. The hospital has also handed over other vital samples to the investigating officer.

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Meanwhile, Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra left for Hathras on Thursday (October 1) to meet the family of the deceased girl.

The victim died on Tuesday at Delhi's Safadarjung Hospital, prompting nationwide outrage and protests. Even as the family members of the victim were grieving over the death of the girl, the Uttar Pradesh police cremated the victim in the dead of the night without the consent of her family members.
Major Cities Deploy Virtual Town Halls Over Summer

Sunlight Foundation Officially Ceases Operations

Denvers Peak Academy Pivots From Efficiency to Broader Mission

The United States and the United Kingdom have created an official pledge to conduct government-to-government dialogue about artificial intelligence as well as cooperation in related research and development.Officials from the two countries did so via the signing of a joint statement with a very unwieldy title . The officials who signed the statement were the U.S. CTO Michael Kratsios of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. For the other country, the joint statement was signed by the U.K. and Northern Irelands Secretary of State Alok Sharma in the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, as well as Oliver Dowden, who is secretary of state in the Department for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport.The statement actually builds on a separate agreement that the two countries signed in 2017, listing the following steps: taking stock in using existing bilateral science and tech cooperation; recommending priorities for future cooperation; coordinating activities in related areas; and promoting research and development with the potential to benefit both countries.The creation and signing of the agreement stems from the second convening of a task force named the Special Relationship Economic Working Group, which held a meeting at the White House between the two countries last month. This comes after the U.S. and the U.K. were part of a 13-country group that discussed potential partnerships for using artificial intelligence for defense.In recent years, the United States has undertaken a concentrated effort to position the country as a leader in the field of artificial intelligence Amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, a number of cities have turned to virtual town hall events to communicate with residents and solicit constituent feedback, and now theyre reporting tangible results from these efforts.The cities that have turned to virtual town hall events are wide-spanning, both in terms of size and geographic location, ranging from Denver to San Diego to Washington, D.C. The way they have conducted these virtual halls also varies, depending on the jurisdiction. They did all this, as well, with several of them keeping an eye toward climate action.For example, Denver used Consider.it to create a new website where residents were able to share feedback and input on ideas related to the citys climate action task force. San Diego, meanwhile, used Mentimeter to garner real-time reactions and policy priorities from more than 175 attendees of the citys first virtual forum , which had its own climate action plan as a central topic.But climate action was not the only topic for which major local governments deployed virtual town hall approaches over the summer. The nations capital, Washington, D.C., was able to collect more than 300 public comments via a microsite dedicated to a new civic project on southeast Pennsylvania Avenue.Finally, Boston and the twin cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minn., all held virtual meetings with residents that were translated into four other languages, during which plans for electric vehicle mobility networks were discussed.The Sunlight Foundation  a nonprofit organization founded in 2006 with a mission of advocating for open government  announced this week that it was ending its work via a letter from Michael R. Klein, the groups board chairman and co-founder.A key thing to note within this is that the activities and staff related to the group have been transferred in some cases to other organizations.Over the past months, virtually all of the activities and staff of Sunlight have been transferred to other engaged institutions, or closed, Klein wrote. What remains, Sunlights name, IP and its records have been transferred to the Internet Archive and to the Berkman Klein Center at Harvard, one of the stellar organizations continuing to assess and address the more important societal implications of information technology.In the nearly a decade and a half of its nonpartisan work, the group and its staffers have done investigative journalism, lobbying, activism and software development via Sunlight Labs, which was an open source community that collected and organized public data.Denvers Peak Academy  which was created in 2012 with a mission of teaching public employees to spot any waste and help the city bolster efficiency  is now pivoting, going from in-person to online courses during the pandemic and also extending its focus to more topics, including fiscal constraints, race and equity, and how to rethink efficiency now that so many people are working from their homes.This is notable in part to the civic tech community due to the prominent national position in the sector that the Peak Academy holds. To date, 9,250 Denver employees have participated in Peak Academy training, with more than 200 other cities and nonprofit groups sending their own employees to take part in the academy. Some other localities have also participated with an eye toward creating similar academy programs of their own.Officials report that the Peak Academy has resulted in city workers deploying more than 4,000 innovations that have saved an estimated $46 million in taxpayer money.The pivot with the Peak Academy is perhaps encapsulated by the reconfiguring of the programs signature class, nicknamed Black Belt. Black Belt was previously a five-day training that dealt heavily in basic principles of change management for local government. In it, participants learned eight tools that could be used to identify waste and another eight tools to eliminate that waste.Now, the class will retain many of the key tools, but additional pieces will be added to address crucial issues of the moment, including considerations of race and social equity, as well as increase usage of the virtual space due to the pandemic.
A few alarm bells are ringing out virally ahead of winter. They are sounding out warnings of a new re-import of the virus into India. Amidst some hopeful signs of a flattening out of the sharp upward curve of the virus spread around India, these bells demand to be heard clearly in Delhi.

Hear the first bell this week from the Indian Institute of Technology in Mandi in Himachal Pradesh. A study at the institute documents what was widely suspected, that travel from Dubai and the UK were the principal source of the spread of the virus across India earlier this year. A second chimes in from London, that spread of the virus is beginning to rise sharply now across Britain. Given those two, surely the Air India announcement that it is stepping up flights from the UK from October must sound like a third.

Theres another. The fourth echoing on from the second tells us that the virus spread in the UK is heaviest now among the young, particularly on university campuses. Many of these universities are considering limiting lessons, closing hostels, and encouraging students to go home for Christmas. Among these are thousands of Indian students who have only just been arriving in Britain at the start of their academic year. Already they are planning return in time through the Christmas holidays on the many new flights being opened up. Infection from the young to the old is a matter of moments.

We may not need experts to warn us through all that jargon around curved paths, projections and modelling to figure that India faces renewed danger of another wave of the virus through passengers flying in from Britain and other Covid-high areas. Not just on more Air India flights but on other carriers that have begun to fly between Britain and India following the Vande Bharat mission. British Airways, Virgin, Spice and Vistara among them.

A clear difference between the March import and the one looming now is that Indians have plenty of other Indians around to get infected from. The virus is now a grimly domestic product. But that makes this just the time to stop further potential  in fact likely and almost inevitable - import of the virus at a time when domestic tightening is showing results after weeks of efforts. There would seem little point in cleaning up the house with one hand and opening an inlet to welcome the muck back in with the other.

And now Nawaz Sharif

The Indian media in London has had a busy few years now at the Westminster magistrates court in London. Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi, to a lesser extent the suspected Sanjeev Chawla who did get extradited. Coming up next, Sanjay Bhandari. But it could be the turn of the Pakistani media now to do duty at the Westminster courtrooms.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has announced new steps to bring former prime minister Nawaz Sharif back from London. Sharif was allowed to come to Britain for medical treatment in November last year after being arrested in Pakistan. A picture of Sharif having tea in a London restaurant and another of him walking on a street appear to have convinced the Pakistani government that his stated illness is fake.

A Pakistani minister has said now that moves are under way to bring Sharif back. If he does not return on his own that is, and that does not appear immediately likely. His party members say he remains very unwell and under treatment. A cup of tea somewhere and walking on a street are not in themselves evidence that nothings medically the matter. This clearly does not convince the Pakistani government.

The government is preparing the grounds to haul him back home in all the ways it can. A bunch of masked men turned up mysteriously outside the Sharif home in London to stage a self-videoed protest demanding his return to Pakistan. The Pakistani government is said to have written simultaneously to the UK government asking for his deportation. That path would appear blocked because Sharif is not in Britain illegally. That leaves extradition which surfaces always at the Westminster magistrates court.

A crucial difference for Pakistan is that it does not have an extradition treaty with Britain. But it can still move to seek extradition as a fellow Commonwealth country. Health is however a prime ground for refusal of return, both for the courts and for the government. Sharifs supporters do believe that is bad enough for him not to return. They must also want to believe its not as bad as they think it is.
CLEVELAND  Wind and rain could wreak havoc on the Yankees' plans to sweep the Indians with a win in Game 2 of the American League Wild Card Series on Wednesday night at Progressive Field.

According to the National Weather Service, winds as high as 43 mph could hit the area. There was also a chance of showers, mostly before 7 p.m., NWS said.

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The NWS issued a hazardous weather outlook for Cleveland.

I havent heard that were in any danger, manager Aaron Boone said on a conference call with reporters Wednesday. It seems like, at least rain-wise, the latest I heard is were OK. It definitely seems like its going to be windy. Its already been windy this afternoon, and that wind could increase. Its obviously something that were in communication when balls are up in the air, its going to be important. That pre-pitch preparation you do as an infielder and especially as an outfielder knowing that the winds playing a factor. Those are things well have to be on top of.

Masahiro Tanaka, the Yankees' scheduled starting pitcher for Wednesday, has previously said swirling winds have affected him on the mound.

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Boone said he wasnt worried about how the veteran would adapt.

I think Masas been around obviously a long time now and pitched in a lot of big games, going back to Japan, and here as a Yankee, Boone said. So, theres always adjustments to be made and feel like hes as equipped as anyone to make those necessary adjustments that you have to make, whether its facing a lineup, wether its dealing with the elements  whatever it may be. Im confident that hell be ready to go and make the necessary adjustments.

Get Yankees text messages: Cut through the clutter of social media and text during games with beat writers and columnists. Plus, exclusive news and analysis every day. Sign up now.

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Brendan Kuty may be reached at bkuty@njadvancemedia.com. Tell us your coronavirus story or send a tip here.
Proud Boys and other right-wing demonstrators march across the Hawthorne Bridge during a rally in Portland, Ore., in August. (Noah Berger / Associated Press )

To prepare a bull for a traditional Spanish bullfight, trainers have been known to smear Vaseline in its eyes, shove wet newspaper up its nose and jab its testicles with needles.

No one had to abuse President Trump before the debate Tuesday. Riled is his natural state. But he did come off like a wounded bull, weakened and disoriented, in the throes of a neural storm he seemed to hope would come off as ferocity. The performance was degrading and sinister in equal measure.

In response, Democratic nominee Joe Biden played less a matador than a Humane Society rep. Hes not a killer. Instead, he shook his head and laughed sadly at the bullyboy. He also pleaded with voters, more in sorrow than in anger, to make Trumps protracted dance of death stop.

To no ones surprise, Trump could not be stopped on Tuesday. He snarled, bellowed and pawed the earth, and when that wasnt working, he did something genuinely chilling. He called out for Nazi reinforcements.

Proud Boys, he said. Stand back and stand by.

What?

If Nazi seems too strong for the Proud Boys  a neofascist fight club whose paunchy, hard-drinking adherents seem to be staging a Hells Angels reboot  its crucial to acknowledge that Godwins Law no longer applies. Mike Godwin himself, the lawyer who once argued that you lose a debate when you compare your opponent to a Nazi, backtracked in 2017.

Referring to Trumps very fine people, the white supremacists who marched in Charlottesville, Va., including the one who killed counter protester Heather Heyer, Godwin tweeted, By all means, compare these [lunkheads]  he used a stronger word  to Nazis.

Back then, of course, Trump was merely praising Nazis. Now, hes giving them marching orders.

Chris Wallace, another uncertain matador, gave Trump a chance to put to rest the persistent rumor  gotta be a rumor, right?  that hes actually allied with white supremacists. Trump declined. Instead, he signaled to the Proud Boy minions to stand by because, he went on, Somebodys got to do something about antifa and the left.

Story continues

On Wednesday the president tried unpersuasively to backpedal. I dont know who the Proud Boys are, he told reporters. White supremacy remained uncondemned.

The Proud Boys got the message. They crowed on social media. They embellished their merch, adding Stand by to their T-shirts.

The Proud Boys have already served as bodyguards for far-right showfolk, including Ann Coulter and Milo Yiannopoulos. Sometimes this has meant clashing with protesters. In their black-and-yellow Fred Perry polo shirts, the Proud Boys look for all the world like a throwback to the Sturmabteilung  the Storm Detachment the Nazi paramilitary charged with security: harassing, hurting and killing Jews, union members, leftists and progressive activists not unlike Heyer.

But doing something about antifa and the left evidently wasnt the only task Trump had in mind for his followers. In a lying rant about very safe, very nice people being thrown out of a Philadelphia polling place (which tweets had flagged as a lie earlier in the day), Trump seemed to gesture at deploying an army of goons to menace voters.

Heres what he was lying about this time: Several Trump campaign workers were barred from a satellite election office in Philadelphia where early voting was taking place because 1) partisan poll watching is only allowed on election day, and 2) they weren't certified as poll watchers to begin with.

(Note: Neither a campaign worker nor any old member of the public can just hover over voters, shoot them dirty looks and breathe down their necks. That's intimidation.)

Trump said from the debate stage, Im urging my supporters to go into the polls and watch very carefully.... Bad things happen in Philadelphia, bad things. And I am urging my people.

This Bad Philadelphia story was widely construed as the latest installment in Trumps effort to scare voters and cast doubts on the elections legitimacy. Go into the polls and watch very carefully. Do something about the left. When was the last time you heard another president "urging" thugs to do such things? It beggars belief.

And of course the Proud Boys cheered. They boasted about getting a record number of new recruits Tuesday night. Sure, theyll dutifully lie low, if thats what their leader wants, for now. But theyll await further orders.

When he could get a word in edgewise on Tuesday, Biden called Trump the worst president America has ever had.

True, as far as it goes.

But Trump is also giving non-American leaders  leaders in Europe in the 1930s and 1940s, say  a run for their money.

@page88

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
As the curtain fell, the stamping of feet started. The theatre went dark and at 10.10 pm the curtain rose on an equally dark stage, on which Dame Joan stood resplendent in a black and glittery gown.

Joan Sutherland, who was not quite five years old when Nellie Melba died in 1931, said goodbye to the world of opera last night. She took her final bow on a flower-carpeted stage, in a shower of ticker-tape and a waterfall of fireworks, to applause which threatened to rock the foundations at Bennelong Point. Never in the 17-year history of the Opera House has an audience responded with such genuine fervour. The streamers and daffodils began to rain down when her husband, Richard Bonynge appeared on stage. Bob Hawke was moved to throw one, then a second streamer.

"Goodbye is of all words the saddest, the most difficult to say" - Nellie Melba.

The house lights went up, and the audience rose as one. The streamers rained down again, almost tethering her to the spot, as a cheering, tearful company assembled behind her. Company member Gregory Tomlinson broke from the ranks to present a bouquet to Dame Joan, who, for once, seemed almost overcome with emotion. She then threw one of her many bouquets to Bonynge, back in the pit.

As the cheering and stomping continued she shook her head as if in disbelief.

At 10.15 pm the house lights dimmed and Dame Joan, in silence broken only by the rustling of streamers, her voice vibrant with emotion, began to sing Home Sweet Home. Green and white balloons fell from the ceiling as audience and the company on stage wept. A shower of green and gold ticker-tape deluged the company, then a huge neon sign reading, simply, "Farewell", descended to illuminate the stage. Dame Joan, laughing, finally turned again to her colleagues, her arms raised in a helpless shrug. She then beckoned Bonynge to join her from the wings. A formal kiss from him was followed by a delighted hug.

The Australian Opera's artistic director, Moffatt Oxenbould, microphone in hand, told her in a brief speech, "All of us involved in this house are in your debt". Thunderous applause.

"On behalf of all your friends and colleagues, well done and thank you."
New Delhi, Oct 1 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday urged people to participate in MyNEP competition and be a part of the educational transformation.

The Prime Minister took Twitter to appeal people across the country.

"MyNEP Competition is an interesting way of sharing unique aspects about the National Education Policy 2020. Participate in the competition at http://MyNEP.in. Be a part of the educational transformation of India!," the Prime Minister tweeted.

MyNEP is an online competition. There are three categories of the MyNEP competition participants. One from Class 9-12, other for undergraduate and above, and the last one is for general citizens (open for all).

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
In 1956, a British doctor named Alice Stewart made an alarming discovery. Pregnant women who were exposed to X-rays, she found, were more likely to have children who would die from cancer.

We know now that the radiation from X-rays is indeed harmful. But at the time, Stewarts finding flew in the face of the accepted narrative about X-raysthat they were the paragon of modern scientific achievement, and that their use would improve lives, not harm them.

Stewart published her findings, expecting a massive buzz. Instead, nothing happened. So set were the minds of the medical establishment that they dismissed Stewarts assertion as unsound. But Stewart didnt give up. Instead, she collaborated with a statistician named George Kneale, who said his job, simply, was to prove Dr. Stewart wrong. In her 2012 TED Talk, Margaret Heffernan said of Kneale that,

He actively sought disconfirmation. Different ways of looking at her models, at her statistics, different ways of crunching the data in order to disprove her. He saw his job as creating conflict around her theories. Because it was only by not being able to prove that she was wrong, that George could give Alice the confidence she needed to know that she was right.

Related: 6 Ways for Cofounders to Settle Disagreements

We often want to avoid disagreements because they can be messy and painful. But for a business to be truly successful, theyre absolutely necessary. Stewart allowed her theory to be stress-tested by someone intent on proving her wrong, and in doing so, changed the status quo (and saved countless lives in the process). Below, I explore how to foster an environment that welcomes debate, rather than discourages it.

Create a safe atmosphere for disagreement

According to one Survey Monkey study, only 58 percent of women and 68 percent of men said they felt they could express a dissenting opinion at work without negative consequences. Thats a lot of missed opportunity for potential growth.

Of course, there is a time and place to disagree. The middle of a meeting with investors might not be the optimal time to tell your co-founder that you think her idea for the re-brand is garbage.

Instead, be intentional about your forum. Consider establishing regular sit-downs where frank conversation is expected, and limit the scope and time to avoid getting off topic. Feedback should be constructive and non-emotional, without any tolerance for personal attacks. Remember, people are more receptive to criticism and debate when its factual and rooted in relevant examples.

Related: Conflict Among Team Members Can Lead to Better Results

While its tempting to think that a lack of disagreements is the sign of a healthy workplace, the opposite is true. As Harvard Business Review contributor Liane Davey wrote, If you think youre taking one for the team by not rocking the boat, youre deluding yourself.

Teams need conflict to function effectively, she says. Conflict allows the team to come to terms with difficult situations, to synthesize diverse perspectives, and to make sure solutions are well thought-out. Conflict may not be pleasant, but it is the source of true innovation.

Be willing to change your mind

Laying the groundwork for constructive debate really only works if everyone involved is open to having their minds changed.

This isnt always easy. Knowing this, PhD. Jim Stone laid out five steps to having a truly open-minded debate.

The first two steps are to recognize our common humanity, and try to learn the story of how someone arrived at their viewpoint. "By default we tend to see a person who has different views as an opponent. And we fall into a 'debate' frame with them," Stone writes. Instead, try thinking in terms of whats called a dialogue frame, which emphasizes what we have in common, rather than what we dont. The second step builds on the first, allowing you to put yourself in the other persons shoes.

Next, make sure everyone involved feels safe rethinking their argument. If you want the other person to open their mind, you have to make them feel safe doing so, writes Stone. One of the best ways to do this is to establish outright that a change of heart is okay, saying something like, I want to feel free to take things back if they don't hold up. And, of course, I'll give you permission to do that, too."

The fourth step is validating the other persons experience so that they feel understood, which means not undermining or questioning whether they really feel how they say they do. That said, its totally possible  and often necessary  to validate while pushing back against their interpretation.

The fifth and final step is never losing sight of the goal of the conversation. If you need to speak up to someone in a position of power, like a supervisor or investor, for example, make it clear that your objective, like theirs, is simply to advance the companys mission.

Ask others their opinions

Not all dissent is created equal. Surrounding yourself with experts and critical thinkersespecially those who think differently than youwill give you the chance to put your ideas to the test. Besides, asking the opinions of those around you shows trust and admiration of expertise, and people who ask for help are perceived as more competent than those who dont.

As Heffernan says in her talk, seeking out diverse opinions forces us to resist the neurobiological drive, which means that we really prefer people mostly like ourselves.

It means we have to seek out people with different backgrounds, different disciplines, different ways of thinking and different experience, and find ways to engage with them, she says. That requires a lot of patience and a lot of energy.

Be intellectually honest

As the head of my startup, I may believe that I am rightbut unless I can build consensus among my team, that often doesnt matter.

Being intellectually honest means striving for the truth, whether or not it jibes with your beliefs. In business, this means that decisions are rooted in facts, not by the position of the individual presenting it, writes Perry Tam, the co-founder of Storm8.

Truly great companies foster a culture of innovation, which is driven by collaboration and the ability to embrace change, he writes. The best companies have employees and leaders who have the curiosity to learn and improveand an innate desire to discover a better and more efficient way of doing things.

Related: How Billionaire Philanthropists Bill and Melinda Gates Settle ...

Related:

How to Disagree the Right Way

7 Essential Soft Skills to Elevate Your Leadership During the Pandemic

Master Domain Knowledge, Not Platitudes, to Cultivate Emotional Intelligence



Copyright 2020 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved
DURHAM, N.C., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Target RWE, an innovative health evidence solutions company that generates and analyzes real-world evidence (RWE), announced the expansion of its active longitudinal dermatology registry, TARGET-DERM (NCT03661866), into Canada and Europe. Launched in 2019, the study has enrolled more than 1,000 patients with Atopic Dermatitis (AD) across 42 academic and community sites throughout the United States.

Target RWE also announced that the TARGET-DERM study will expand data collection to capture real-world data on patients with hidradenitis suppurativa (painful boil-like lesions under the skin) and alopecia areata (autoimmune-related hair loss).

"It is exciting to see the expansion of TARGET-DERM beyond the U.S. into Canada and Europe. The uniqueness of the registry and the speed of its growth in the U.S. has been very impressive, and the extension internationally will add great value to the project," said TARGET-DERM Steering Committee Member, Robert Bissonnette, MD, Chief Executive Officer and Medical Director at Innovaderm Research, Inc. located in Montreal, QC, Canada.

"Building on the success of our AD enrollment and strong partner support, we are excited to expand TARGET-DERM globally to Canada and Europe by the end of 2020," said Neal Bibeau, CEO, Target RWE. "We are also pleased to begin including patients who live with alopecia areata and hidradenitis suppurativa, two dermatological conditions with major quality-of-life implications, in the hopes that our data analysis will uncover meaningful findings for these patients."

TARGET-DERM is an observational study following adult and pediatric patients with immune-mediated inflammatory skin conditions. Once enrolled, TARGET-DERM collects three years of retrospective data and ten years of prospective data on patients. The registry could eventually include up to 15,000 patients and may expand to include vitiligo (loss of skin pigment) in the future. The TARGET-DERM real-world data collection includes extensive patient-reported outcome measures and biospecimen samples (whole blood, saliva, serum, and tape strips) on consented patients.

About Target RWE

Target RWE is an innovative health evidence solutions company generating real-world evidence (RWE) and providing regulatory-grade data to partners to advance clinical, medical, and commercial outcomes in addition to improve patient health guidelines and quality of care.

Target RWE designs custom datasets, analyses, and evidence to address the complexities of healthcare evidence questions and quality initiatives. Visit www.targetrwe.com for more details.

CONTACT:

Kayla Slake

[email protected]

984.234.0268 ext. 205

SOURCE Target RWE

Related Links

https://www.targetrwe.com


New Delhi, Oct 1 : The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has called out the Centre for responding inappropriately to the pandemic on Thursday. In a strongly-worded statement, the national body of doctors has condemned the series of reforms in medical education the Centre has pushed recently.

The IMA has alleged that concerns of the profession and people were brushed aside while enacting the National Medical Council Act 2019.

They also referred to clause 32 of National Medical Commission (NMC) Act, 2019, as a "crime against humanity," which entitles all healthcare practitioners license to practice medicine in primary care.

As per IMA, it will jeopardise the lives of the patients."This single clause (32 of NMC Act) will cost India millions of lives as it will allow half and partially trained non medical persons to treat patients, the IMA said.

"The community health providers are an assorted group of persons connected with the modern scientific medical profession. They can be anyone from laboratory technicians to optometrists. The NMC will provide them a licence to practice medicine in primary care. This will include a wide range of diseases and maternity. If they are overseen by other Community Health Providers, they can practice inside ICUs, Critical Care, Operation theatres, emergencies, Labour rooms, and anywhere in the secondary and critical care. This single clause 32 will cost India millions of lives. Letting loose half and partially trained non-medical persons to treat patients is a crime against humanity," it explained.

The IMA also condemned the centre's ambitious 'one nation one system' policy in medical education and called it a cocktail of disaster.

"The Government is alleged to have favoured 'one nation one system' which is a cocktail for disaster. The National Educational Policy will enable a mix all systems of medicine and produce Hybrid doctors. In effect, doctors of modern medicine as existing today will cease to exist in a decade. The nation will produce only Hybrid doctors of questionable repute," it said.

Besides, the IMA also shared its concern on the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions Bill, 2020, which allows assorted paramedics to practice medicine independently. "It is the final nail in the coffin," it commented.

"What the Government has in store for the nation is a lytic cocktail of mixing all systems (mixopathy) allowing all systems to practise modern medicine (crosspathy) allowing unqualified non-medical persons entry into medical register and legitimising their practise in primary, secondary and tertiary care hospitals ( official quackery) as well as allowing paramedics to become medics. Modern medicine as a science will be extinct in India by 2030," the IMA said.

The apex body of doctors criticised that the Centre's "inappropriate" response to the pandemic has come at a time when modern medicine has stood tall in the face of a pandemic, and its doctors have saved millions of lives to contain the Case Fatality rate at 1.7%. "Their (government's) own statistics show that 96% of patients prefer modern medicine," the IMA added.

The IMA also resolved to resist the latest moves by the Centre. "We resolve to resist these ill-conceived moves. Dignity and Honour of the medical profession are not for barter. The doctors and the medical students of India will jointly resist these serious infringes on the health of the nation in the name of people of India," the apex medical association said.

Last week, through a gazette notification, the centre dissolved the Medical Council of India and formed NMC to function as the country's apex regulatory body of medical education and profession.
In Tuesday's presidential debate, Joe Biden said an analysis of his proposed policies shows they would yield great job growth. I wondered, who in his right mind and with an ounce of common sense would believe that massive higher taxation; huge new regulations; intentional destruction of high-paying energy jobs; moving rapidly toward single-payer, government-run health care; a high national minimum wage; and open borders with lots of free stuff for illegals would yield great results?

I figured the analysis had to be done by a puppet of the Democrat party, not an "independent" entity. Sure enough, the analysis was done by old reliable Moody's Analytics with Mark Zandi.

Frequently, the media and other Democrats go to the supposedly independent Zandi to support Democrat policies and trash Republican policies. Zandi works for Moody's, and a major shareholder of Moody's is Warren Buffett. Zandi and Buffett have been consistent supporters of Obama and Hillary the past ten years and now Biden, so Zandi is as independent as the Justice Department and IRS was under Obama.

Zandi is about as independent and fair in his analysis as the Washington Post, New York Times, Google, Twitter, and Facebook.

Economic Forecast: Biden Plan Will Create 7 Million More Jobs Than Trump Moody's Analytics, an economic-research firm, has published an economic forecast weighing the effects of Joe Biden and Donald Trump's proposals. It finds Biden's plan would produce dramatically faster job growth and higher wages for most workers. Biden's proposals would lead to 18.6 million new jobs during his first term, and the average American's income (after taxes) would increase by $4,800. Trump's policies would lead to an increase of 11.2 million new jobs by 2025, with minimal real income gain for average households.

In this article from the AP, Zandi predicted 700,000 job losses and a slow economy if Trump put on tariffs. Somehow these experts don't seem to think Canada, Mexico, Europe, and China would adjust their punitive tariffs and taxes to protect their economy. They seemed to lack vision as they exhibited groupthink.

In Tuesday's debate, Biden ripped Trump on manufacturing and said he would create jobs by forcing the government to buy American. Biden has been in D.C. for almost fifty years and has consistently cheered China on while letting manufacturing jobs leave  but now we should trust him?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 12.9 million manufacturing jobs at the end of 2008, when Obama/Biden took office, and despite coming out of a recession, there were only 12.4 million manufacturing jobs at the end of 2016, when Obama/Biden left office. In case journalists and other Democrats have trouble calculating, that is a loss of 500,000 mostly good-paying manufacturing jobs.

In contrast, at December 2019, after three years of Trump's trade and tax policies and with many fewer regulations, the U.S was back up to 12.9 million manufacturing jobs or a gain of 500,000 jobs.

It doesn't take a genius or an economics degree to know which policies work and which ones don't.

Analysts: Trump tariff threats unlikely to yield trade deals Moody's Analytics estimates that if the tariffs were imposed on autos and most Chinese imports and other countries retaliate as expected, annual U.S. growth would slow by 0.5 percentage point by mid-2019. It expects that 700,000 jobs would be lost. In 2016, Zandi said Trump's policies would cost 4 million jobs as he was shilling for Hillary. Instead, we will have around 6.5 million new jobs in Trump's first three years. Zandi was so close at only 10.5 million jobs off, and now we are supposed to believe his 2020 predictions?

Donald Trump's trade war could kill millions of U.S. jobs An economic model of Trump's proposals, prepared by Moody's Analytics at the request of The Washington Post, suggests Trump is half-right about his plans. They would, in fact, sock it to China and Mexico. Both would fall into recession, the model suggests, if Trump levied his proposed tariffs and those countries retaliated with tariffs of their own. Unfortunately, the United States would fall into recession, too. Up to 4 million American workers would lose their jobs. Another 3 million jobs would not be created that otherwise would have been, had the country not fallen into a trade-induced downturn.

Zandi in October of 2017 said the Republican tax plan wouldn't add significantly to economic growth. He was obviously wrong.

In 2016, during the election campaign, Zandi said Hillary's plan would create millions of extra jobs and fast economic growth. I would ask Zandi why the U.S had the slowest economic recovery in seventy years under Obama/Biden and now would be great. How do higher taxes, more regulations, and transferring more power to the government stimulate economic growth?

Hillary Clinton's plans for the economy would boost growth and create millions of jobs, according to a new analysis. Moody's Analytics estimates that if the Democratic presidential nominee's proposals are enacted, the economy would create 10.4 million jobs during her presidency, or 3.2 million more than expected under current law. Moody's Analytics is an independent research group, but the lead author of the report on Clinton is Mark Zandi, who donated $2,700 to her campaign last year, according to data from the Center for Responsive Politics. Zandi was a vocal supporter of the stimulus package President Obama deployed during the financial crisis of 2009

Zandi also shilled for Obama over Romney. His stripes don't change.

Mark Zandi of Moody's said Obama's policy was better than Romneys All fiscal multipliers are adopted or modeled from fiscal multipliers published by Moody's Analytics Chief Economist Mark Zandi, as detailed in Table A-1 (Zandi 2011a; Zandi 2011b; Bivens and Fieldhouse 2012).

Why is Zandi considered an "expert" when his forecasts have been so wrong? People should also remember that Zandi and Moody's contributed greatly to the economic collapse of 2008. They made huge amounts of money rating junk mortgages as Triple A so they could be sold to the public.

A rock could have spotted the housing bubble with no document loans, no down payment loans, over 100% loan to value loans but not the ratings agencies?

Voters should use their common sense. Does it make sense that if the government confiscates a much greater share of private sector money and power for themselves that the economy would grow faster than with lower taxes and fewer regulations?

Don't trust people who are called experts. They make a lot of stuff up when they are pushing agendas.

The choice gets easier every day if we want more freedom and opportunity for people of all races to move up the economic ladder. Moving towards any form of socialism would lead to cataclysmic disaster, not a couple of degree temperature rise.

Photo credit: YouTube screen grab (cropped).
- By Barry Cohen





Here's a switch: Analysts are predicting sales for a Sanofi (NASDAQ:SNY) blockbuster drug that exceeds the company's forecast.

Jefferies analysts wrote Dupixent revenue is likely to peak at $12.5 billion, according to an article in FiercePharma. That's about 8% higher than Sanofi CEO Paul Hudson has set for the medication.

Dupixent is the first biologic medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration for adults and children aged six years and up with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis for whom topical treatments have not worked or are not advised.





Atopic is the most common type of eczema, affecting more than 9.6 million children and about 16.5 million adults in the United States, according to the National Eczema Association. It's a chronic condition that can come and go for years or throughout life and can overlap with other types of eczema. The condition triggers inflammation that damages the skin barrier, leaving it dry and prone to itching and rashes.

As of the second quarter, Dupixent sales have been running at about $1 billion every three months. Jeffries thinks that number could double by 2028 as the patient population for atopic dermatitis expands and the drug makes inroads into treatment for asthma and several additional indications.

Other companies have eczema drugs in testing, but it appears they will present little challenge to Dupixent because of their side effects. One is abrocitinib from Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE), the other is Rinvoq from AbbVie Inc.(NYSE:ABBV).

Jeffries Says Sanofi Is 'Most Compelling' European Pharma Stock

In addition to making Dupixent Sanofi's key growth driver, Hudson, a year into his tenure at the company's helm, has launched a program to cut about $2.5 billion in costs by 2022. He's also focusing the company's research and development so it yields drugs that are "first-in-class" or "best-in-class." To supplement in-house research, Sanofi has been busy scouting for outside help. It recently closed a $3.7 billion acquisition of Principia Biopharma. According to the terms of the deal, the Paris-based company gets drugs to treat conditions such as multiple sclerosis, immunological and inflammatory diseases.

Story continues

Jeffries analysts acknowledge Sanofi is much more than Dupixent, pointing to the company's flu vaccines, robust pipeline and cost-cutting initiatives. In a bit of high praise, Jeffries said that from an investment perspective, Sanofi is the "most compelling" among large European pharma companies.

Sanofi is also engaged in the fight against Covid-19. The company recently began a phase 1/2 clinical trial of the vaccine it is developing in conjunction with GlaxoSmithKline (NYSE:GSK). The company said it anticipates results will be available in December, and if the shot passes muster, Sanofi could ask for regulatory approval in the first half of 2021.

Sanofi currently trades just below $50, It's year-to-date range is $37.62 to $55. Its dividend yields nearly 3.4%. According to CNN Money, the 19 analysts offering 12-month price forecasts have a median target of $62.62, with a high estimate of $68.99 and a low estimate of $50.27. They rate Sanofi a buy.

Disclosure: The author holds positions in Sanofi and Pfizer.

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This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


Moscow employers ordered to move 30% of staff to remote work amid COVID-19 spread

 RAPSI, Lyudmila Klenko

15:14 01/10/2020

MOSCOW, October 1 (RAPSI)  Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin on Thursday obliged the citys employers to move upwards of 30% employees to home offices starting October 5, RAPSI was told in the coronavirus fight crisis center.

Moreover, bosses were ordered to move all 65+ subordinates to the distance work.

An exception is employees whose attendance is essential for the running of an organization, according to the statement.

The remote work demands do not also apply to medical organizations, defense plants, Rosatom and Roscosmos corporations.
The idea of examining whether Dundas Street should be renamed should be considered, Toronto city council decided on Thursday.

Council approved moving forward with a consultation process that will consider options ranging from renaming Dundas Street and every other civic asset bearing the name, to leaving it as it is. Two other options to be considered include retaining the current name with, for example, explanatory plaques or keeping Dundas Street and Dundas subway stop as is and renaming all other city assets named Dundas.

The cost of the consultations, which will include public consultations, has been pegged at $250,000.

Responding to questions from councillors, city manager Chris Murray said the city would be on the hook for compensating businesses and residents for the cost of changing their addresses, and that renaming costs could eventually mount into the millions of dollars, if other city streets were also found to be in need of renaming.

Coun. Michael Thompson (Ward 21 Scarborough Centre) cautioned against focusing exclusively on the costs of implementation. He asked about the costs of not effecting change.

He said some of the costs on the other side of the ledger include lost opportunities, lost aspirations, and lives lost to slavery and racism, as well as the emotional and mental costs of racism.

In an interview after the morning meeting, Thompson said its important to consider the wealth that was built on slavery, when weighing the costs of the potential changes.

He said he wants to know more about Scottish MP Henry Dundas, after whom the street is named, before he can decide where he stands on the issue.

Dundas has proven to be a controversial figure, criticized for contributing to a significant delay in the abolition of slavery. He has also been described as an abolitionist.

I think we have to have a full vetting of the information, said Thompson, the only Black man on council.

Murray has described Dundass legacy as complicated.

A recent petition asking council to rename Dundas Street garnered more than 14,000 signatures.

Council has directed the city manager to report back to councils executive committee in the first quarter of 2021 on the consultation, including recommendations on a preferred option, as well as a work plan with estimated costs. Staff has also been asked to report on revisions to the citys commemorative policies and programs.

Council earlier delayed a decision on how to fill the now vacant Scarborough-Agincourt seat after former councillor Jim Karygiannis lost a legal battle to stay in office. Mayor John Tory successfully moved to take a vote on that issue at the next council meeting later this month.

Council can choose whether to appoint a new member or hold a byelection, but Tory said deciding this week would have meant the timing for a byelection would be too close to the December holidays, which are not optimum dates for that.

With a file from Jennifer Pagliaro

Francine Kopun is a Toronto-based reporter covering city hall and municipal politics for the Star. Follow her on Twitter: @KopunF
 Flash

The Chinese Embassy in Lithuania has hosted an online celebration to mark the 71st anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC).

Between Sept. 28 and Sept. 30, the event attracted numerous messages from Lithuanians and members of the local Chinese community. The commenters extended good wishes to the Chinese people and wrote kind remarks on friendship and cooperation between China and Lithuania.

In his message, Chinese Ambassador to Lithuania Shen Zhifei said that with perseverance and strenuous efforts, the Chinese people have made remarkable achievements over the past 71 years and are now embracing the brilliant prospect of rejuvenation.

"China is ready to join hands with the Lithuanian people and all peace-loving peoples of the world to advance and practice multilateralism as well as to uphold the international system with the United Nations at its core and an international order based on international law, endeavoring to build a community of shared future for mankind," said the ambassador.

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has put lives and the health of people around the world under grave threat and has seriously disrupted the global economy, he said.

"With an open and inclusive mind, China will continue to promote anti-pandemic international cooperation, ensure the sound and smooth operation of the global industrial and supply chains and respond to the global challenges jointly, in contribution to winning the fight against the pandemic and restoring the economy globally at an earlier date," he said.

"On this auspicious occasion, I would like to wish the Chinese people further progress and prosperity. I am confident that the friendly relations that already exist between Lithuania and the People's Republic of China will continue to grow and prosper for the benefit of our two peoples," said Dainius Voveris, Lithuania's first ambassador to China, in his message.

Having followed the developments in China over the last 30-plus years, Voveris said, "I could not help admiring with pleasure the tremendous achievements in socio-economic development, in science and technology, culture, in raising the living standards of its people."
Vote-by-mail ballots have started to go out in several midstate counties, so PennLive figured it is time to give the thousand of voters who have requested them a county-by-county rundown on just how you can get them back in, safe, secure and ready to be counted.

First, the obvious: the good, old U.S. Postal Service.

While it is true that some sorting capacity at the postal service has been cut back in recent months, the agency has been ordered to treat ballots as first-class mail, and according to recent efficiency reports, thats still getting delivered on schedule 81 percent of the time.

And as Lebanon County Director of Elections Michael Anderson likes to remind people, your ballot is coming to you in the mail. So if it worked to get to you, it ought to work on the return trip, right?

Just make sure that you follow the rules and send the ballot back in plenty of time to meet the current Election Day, Nov. 3 postmark deadline. (Pennsylvanias Republican legislative leaders are still in court trying to require ballots to be received by Nov. 3, so stay tuned on this.)

Secondly, if youre still feeling more comfortable seeing your ballot get directly from your hands to county officials, most counties are providing some form of direct delivery drop boxes at county buildings over the next month, and many are making provisions for evening or weekend hour drop-offs.

Bear in mind this is not as simple as dropping a letter off at the post office, since state law requires that each mail-in ballot must be returned by the voter who cast it.

Same as at polling places, no one will be checking your identification, said Jean Byers, the chief clerk for Franklin County. But the counties will have their respective drop-off sites staffed to ensure that that no one is doing a mass drop-off, or to prevent a John Doe from delivering a ballot return envelope signed by Jane Doe.

And all of the in-person drops have to be done by Election Day.

Two other critical, final reminders. If you want to vote by mail and you havent applied yet, know that the deadline to do so is Oct. 27, one week before the election. If you want to vote - in person or by mail - and you arent currently registered, the deadline for that is Oct. 19.

Heres a map of locations and a current rundown of ballot drop-off locations and hours in your county.

Adams: A ballot drop box has been placed in the lobby of the courthouse at 117 Baltimore St., Gettysburg. It will be accessible during regular business hours, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Cumberland: Completed ballots maybe returned in person to the county voter registration offices in Suite 201, 1601 Ritner Highway, Carlisle, during regular business hours from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Fridays. The office will also be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day.

Dauphin: Starting Oct. 6, the countys elections office, located in the first-floor lobby of the Dauphin County Administration Building, 2 S. Second St., Harrisburg, will extend its weekday office hours to 8 p.m. for voters to pick up or return mail-in ballot applications and completed ballots.

Ballots will also be accepted at the elections offices from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day.

Also starting Oct. 6, ballots may be returned to the countys Northern Dauphin Human Services Center at 295 State Dr., in Elizabethville. The Northern Dauphin site will be open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with trained county staff on hand to accept completed ballots. Those staffers will also be able to accept voter registration and mail-in ballot request forms, though they wont be processed onsite in Elizabethville.

Franklin: Ballots may be dropped off during the business day (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday) at the either the Franklin County voter registration office in the Old Courthouse building, 2 N. Main St., Chambersburg; or at the Franklin County commissioners' office, 340 N. Second St.. also in Chambersburg.

In addition to the weekday hours, commissioners have approved two Saturday drop-off options:

Saturday, Oct. 24: The voter registration office will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to process new mail-in ballot applications, and to receive completed ballots.

Saturday, Oct. 31: The county will run a drive-through ballot collection day from 9 a.m to 3 p.m. Staff will be posted under the catwalk over Central Avenue at the rear of the Old Courthouse building to accept completed ballots.

Lancaster: Voters may deliver completed ballots to the Election Office at Suite 117, 150 N. Queen St., Lancaster, during regular business hours. There will also be a ballot collection receptacle in the Chestnut Street entrance lobby of the county goverment center, right before the security station. Both will be open during county business hours of 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Lancaster County officials have also agreed to run extended lobby hours for ballot drop-offs to 8 p.m. on Oct. 28th; Oct. 29th; and Nov. 2nd.; and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Oct. 31, the Saturday before the election. On Election Day, November 3rd, the lobby and the Election Office will be open from 7:00 A.M. until 8:00 P.M.

Lebanon: Completed ballots may be dropped off at the rear of the Lebanon County / Municipal Building on any weekday, from 8:30 am. to 4:30 p.m.; and on Election Day from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Voters may leave ballots at a receptacle that will be monitored by sheriffs deputies at the rear entrance to the building, which is at 400 S. 8th St., in Lebanon.

Perry: Voters can hand-deliver completed mail ballots to a drop box outside the county commissioners office in the Veterans Memorial Building, 25 W. Main St., New Bloomfield.

The board of elections voted to extend hours for public access to the box as follows: 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 19, 21 and 23, 26, 28 and 30; and 8 a.m. to noon on Oct. 24 and 31. In addition, the building will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Election Day.

York: Voters can hand-deliver mail-in ballots at the elections office in the County Administrative Center, 28 E. Market St., in York, during regular business hours, and from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day.

In addition, commissioners have established these weekend hours for the elections office: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 24; and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., on Sunday, Nov. 1.
Federal Department of Foreign Affairs

Bern, 01.10.2020 - On 1 October Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis participated as official speaker at the investiture of the captains regent of San Marino, a traditional ceremony that has been handed down unaltered since 1243. In his speech, the head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) restated the importance of multilateralism and international Geneva as a platform for discussion on digitalisation. The two countries also signed a memorandum of understanding committing them to work together more closely in the multilateral arena.

In addition to solid roots, an innovative spirit is also needed to face future challenges, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis affirmed in his speech at the investiture of the captains regent of San Marino. This ancient rite takes place every six months, on 1 April and 1 October, and the ceremony always includes a speech by a foreign dignitary. Mr Cassis is the first federal councillor to take part in this capacity.

The balance between respect for tradition and an openness to the world unites Switzerland and San Marino: "Upholding our traditions doesn't mean remaining wedded to the past and ignoring the challenges posed by the passing of time," said Cassis, reiterating the importance of having universal reference points and clear rules that are recognised by all. "This is the only way we can maintain close, stable relations with Europe and the international community," he concluded. Ignazio Cassis went on to restate Switzerland's commitment to multilateral bodies, highlighting the important role played by International Geneva and Switzerland's candidature for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the period 202324.

A long history of working together

Switzerland has close relations with San Marino, considered to be the oldest republic in the world. During the visit, Mr Cassis had discussions with a delegation from the San Marino government and the state secretary for foreign affairs, Luca Beccari. On the agenda were various bilateral matters and the current situation surrounding the coronavirus pandemic. The two countries expressed their desire to work still more closely together and further improve their already good relations. They also signed a memorandum of understanding in which they undertook to strengthen cooperation in the multilateral arena to ensure the defence of and respect for common values, such as peace, human rights, democracy and good governance. Mr Cassis also briefed the San Marino authorities on the status of discussions between Switzerland and the EU for the conclusion of an institutional framework agreement, also in the light of the result of the federal vote of 27 September 2020.

Address for enquiries

FDFA Communication

Federal Palace West Wing

CH-3003 Bern, Switzerland

Tel. Communication service: +41 58 462 31 53

Tel. Press service: +41 58 460 55 55

E-mail: kommunikation@eda.admin.ch

Twitter: @SwissMFA

Publisher

Federal Department of Foreign Affairs

https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home.html




Appointment

1 October 2020

Born and raised in Texas, Hernandez comes to HALL Arts Hotel from The Joule in Dallas, where she began as a bartender, later assisting in the opening of five on-property dining concepts. Most recently, Hernandez helped lead The Joule's Americano team as assistant general manager of the popular Italian restaurant. With more than two decades of experience in the food and beverage industry, Hernandez has uncovered her passion for creating memorable dining experience for diners and fostering a positive team atmosphere for everyone on staff. As general manager of Ellie's Restaurant & Lounge, she utilizes her keen attention to detail to manage the refined and thoughtful service the upscale restaurant is known for. When she's not mixing drinks or greeting guests, Hernandez enjoys yoga, reading, camping and spending time with her family.
Accountancy giant EY is under fire from multiple fronts after it emerged a whistleblower raised the alarm about possible fraud at Wirecard four years ago.

Politicians and angry investors lined up to condemn the Big Four accountants, which were said to be facing their own 'Arthur Anderson moment'.

EY was dragged further into the Wirecard scandal this week when the Financial Times published claims that a whistleblower flagged signs of potential fraud in 2016.

The accountancy firm audited Wirecard's books for more than a decade until the German payment company went bust this year after admitting that 1.7billion had vanished.

Accountancy giant EY is under fire from multiple fronts after it emerged a whistleblower raised the alarm about fraud at Wirecard four years ago

Green MP Danyal Bayaz said EY will be under the spotlight when Bundestag members drill down into the Wirecard affair next week.

And Fabio De Masi MP, who represents the leftwing Die Linke party, said: 'In a worst-case scenario, EY could face its Arthur Andersen moment,' a nod to the auditors of Enron which famously collapsed after the energy giant emerged to be a fraud.

Claims that the whistleblower highlighted fraud but this was supposedly not acted upon was branded 'just unbelievable' by a Wirecard investor, who told the FT if true it paves the way for them to sue EY for massive losses.

The allegations, which also included a bribery attempt of an EY employee in India, reportedly surfaced in a special audit into Wirecard by rival accountancy firm KPMG, which has been seen by the FT.

The accountancy firm audited Wirecard's books for more than a decade until the German payment company went bust this year after admitting that 1.7billion had vanished

Heribert Hirte, an MP for Angela Merkel's CDU, said: 'The new claims are likely to make it much harder for EY to prove that its annual audits were conducted properly and that the audit opinions were in line with the law.'

EY has acknowledged that issues relating to potential fraud and bribery concerns were flagged by an employee.

But it insists that the claims were thoroughly investigated by the accountancy firm as well as forensic teams.

In January 2019, Wirecard was hit by allegations in the FT that its Singapore office made fake book-keeping entries to 'pad' its revenues.

EY investigated those claims and gave Wirecard management a clean bill of health.

Further allegations - including that the finance team sought to inflate sales and profits at its units in Ireland and Dubai - led Wirecard to hire KPMG last autumn to conduct an outside audit.
Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel said he has tested positive for Covid-19 and has gone into self-isolation at his New Delhi residence on Thursday.

Announcing the news on his Twitter handle, the leader also urged all those who had come in contact with him recently to self-isolate.

Click here for Covid-19 live updates

I have tested positive for COVID-19. I request all those who came in close contact with me recently, to self-isolate, he tweeted.

Congress Abhishek Singhvi and Tarun Gogoi, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, Union Ministers Amit Shah, Nitin Gadkari and Pralhad Patel are some of the other leaders who have tested positive for Covid-19.

Meanwhile, India on Thursday reported 86,821 fresh cases of coronavirus, taking the tally to 6,312,584, according to health ministry dashboard at 8am. The country also reported 1,181 new fatalities due to the virus in the last 24 hours, taking the death toll to 98,678.

There are 9,40,705 active cases in the country, whereas a total of 52,73,201 people have been cured of the disease so far.

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Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi and his sister and party general secretary in-charge of Uttar Pradesh Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will visit the family of the 19-year-old Dalit woman, who died in a Delhi hospital on Tuesday a fortnight after she was gang-raped at Hathras in Uttar Pradesh.

The woman was cremated in the early hours of Wednesday, with her family alleging the local police forced them to conduct the last rites in the dead of the night.

A Congress leader said some members of the partys Scheduled Castes department  Akshay Maurya, Shivram Singh, Ritu Choudhary, Pramod Kumar and Pradeep Narwal -- will also accompany them. Hundreds of Congress workers have started gathering at the Delhi-Noida border to accompany the two leaders, he added.

Before leaving for Hathras, Rahul Gandhi attacked the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government over jungle raj in Uttar Pradesh. The atrocities on daughters continue in UPs jungle raj. They were not given respect when alive and now the dignity has been taken away even in death. The BJPs slogan of Beti Bachao is not to save girls but to hide facts and save power, he tweeted.

Also read: Samajwadi Party to take vow of silence in protest against UP govt on Gandhi Jayanti

Priyanka Gandhi too attacked chief minister Yogi Adityanath over the rise in incidents of rape in UP. Hathras-like gruesome incident has happened in Balrampur. The girls feet and back were broken. There have been atrocities on girls in Azamgarh, Baghpat and Bulandshahr. There is no limit to UPs jungle raj. Law and order cannot be implemented through marketing and speeches. This is the time for the chief ministers accountability. People want answers, she tweeted in Hindi.

On Wednesday, the Congress demanded Adityanaths resignation over the incident. Congress president Sonia Gandhi said the people of the country are sad and angry over the gruesome incident and said the Nirbhaya of Hathras did not die but was killed by a cruel and insensitive government and its administration.

In a video message, she said the country will speak up against this injustice and not allow the BJP to divide the country and violate the Constitution.

This incident is a blot on our society. I want to ask is it a sin to be a girl? Is it a crime to be the daughter of a poor? What was the UP government doing? For weeks, the familys cry for justice was not heard. There was an attempt to cover up the issue. The girl was not given proper treatment. Today, our daughter has left us. I want to say that the Nirbhaya of Hathras did not die, she was killed by an insensitive government and its administration, Gandhi said.

Also read: After Hathras, another Dalit woman gangraped in Balrampur; UP govt faces backlash

Even after her death, the girl was denied dignity and not handed over to her family. A weeping mother could not see her daughter for the last time. This is a grave sin. Her body was cremated by force. There is dignity in death. Our Hindu religion is clear about it. But she was cremated like an orphan by the police, she added.

What kind of justice is this? What kind of a government is this? You think you can do anything and the nation will sit and watch. The nation will speak against your injustice. On behalf of the Congress party, I demand justice for the family. India belongs to everyone. Everyone has the right to live with dignity. The Constitution has given us this right. We will not allow the BJP to break the country and violate the Constitution, the Congress president said.

Rahul Gandhi attacked the BJP government over the alleged rise in atrocities on Dalits in the state.

A daughter of India is raped-murdered, facts are suppressed and in the end, the right to perform the last rites is also taken away from the victims family. It is insulting and unjust, he tweeted in Hindi using the hashtag Hathras Horror Shocks India.

Gandhi tagged a video purportedly of the cremation site showing a police officer not answering questions on whether the body of the victim was being cremated there.

This is a shameful move of the UP government to suppress Dalits and show them their place in the society. The Congress fight is against this disgusting thinking, he said.

Priyanka Gandhi said, I was on the phone with the Hathras victims father when he was informed that his daughter had passed away. I heard him cry out in despair.

He had just been telling me that all he wanted was justice for his child. Last night, the victims father was robbed of the chance to take his daughter home for the last time and perform her last rites, she said in a series of tweets.

Tagging Adityanath, Priyanka Gandhi tweeted, RESIGN. Instead of protecting the victim and her family, your government became complicit in depriving her of every single human right, even in death. You have no moral right to continue as chief minister.

In another tweet in Hindi, she alleged that at 2.30 am Wednesday, the victims kin kept requesting but the UP administration forcibly cremated the deceased.

The government did not protect her when she was alive. The government did not provide her timely treatment when she was attacked. After her death, the government took away the right of the family to perform the last rites of their daughter and did not respect the deceased, she said.

Gross inhumanity. You did not stop the crime but behaved like criminals. You did not stop the atrocities, but committed atrocity on an innocent child and her family twice, she added.

At a press briefing, Mahila Congress chief Sushmita Dev said there must be an inquiry into the whole incident, but the subject matter of the inquiry must go beyond the activities of the rapists.

There should be an inquiry into the gross and criminal negligence by the UP chief minister, who is also the home minister of the state, in the matter, Dev said.

The way she was cremated is a gross violation of her human rights. The way she was left in a normal ward for more than six days is a gross violation of her human rights. For eight days, there is no FIR and when there is an FIR, look at the sections this hopeless and ruthless government gives, no sections of rape, she alleged.

The way the cremation was carried out at 2.30 am in an unjust manner, to give justice, the only answer is that the Prime Minister should ask for UP CMs resignation. If the PM does not do so, then there will be no justice to her, Dev said.

She also attacked union minister Smriti Irani for not speaking out on the issue. She would go down in history as the worst women and child development minister. She should resign as an MP of the Lok Sabha given the state of crime and women security in UP, Dev said.

Dont you tell us we are politicising this. The same PM who told us Nirbhaya ko yaad rakhna is silent. Ajay Bisht (Yogi Adityanath) will have to resign. We will take to the streets till he leaves his post and we will not let this government sleep, she said.
01.10.2020 LISTEN

As part of South Africas move to lockdown level one on 21 September 2020, air travel restrictions have been eased. International air travel will commence from 1 October 2020, initially restricted to 3 airports, namely: OR Tambo International Airport, King Shaka International Airport and Cape Town International Airport. South Africa is taking a necessary cautious risk-based approach, with travel permitted to and from certain countries only, based on the current COVID-19 statistics per region.

As a result of both air travel restrictions and, many citizens themselves choosing not to travel, traveller and in-airport volumes are currently relatively low. This allows for a reasonably seamless process when it comes to compulsory COVID-19 screening of travellers arriving at, or departing from airports. However, as restrictions are further relaxed over the coming months, we are bound to see a spike in air traveller numbers. This poses a risk as the new screening measures lead to longer traveller check-in and arrivals processes, and therefore, larger groups of people gathering within often confined airport spaces. The prevalence of viral spread is increased in crowded indoor spaces, as well as through touch of contaminated surfaces ( World Health Organisation ), and airports have both; large groups of intersecting people and, multiple common physical touchpoints.

Aviation security experts strongly recommend that airport authorities and governmental decision-making bodies act with urgency in analysing and implementing passenger screening, movement and health control systems preceding the predictable surge in air travel that will take place as travel bans decrease over the coming weeks and months. Speedy and decisive action will make all the difference in curbing (or neglecting to curb) future waves of viral outbreaks.

It is imperative for Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) to move swiftly in developing and deploying highly efficient traffic management systems to streamline in-airport traveller movement, while ensuring that proper epidemic screening and control protocols are in place. Automation, specifically technology-driven solutions, forms an integral part of such a system. This includes automated border control mechanisms such as electronic gates and self-service traveller stations capable of processing passenger data quickly and accurately. Integrating these checkpoints with existing Epidemic Control Systems (ECS) that facilitate early warning and monitoring, as well as an alert system that flags high-risk passengers will help determine which travellers should be screened more thoroughly. This is beneficial from a time management and health safety point of view.

Touch-free technology is pivotal in reducing the spread of the virus within the airport environment. Across industries, research shows that the use of contactless biometrics is on the rise. The Global Contactless Biometrics Technology Marketed expected to reach $18.6 billion by 2026, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.1% during this period. For airports, the use of high-reliability touch-free multimodal biometrics like iris and face recognition software systems is both fast and effective for contactless passenger verification. Iris scanning means that passengers will not have to pull down their masks for identity verification (as is current practice). It makes sense to pair these technologies with current health screening methods such as temperature checks by incorporating thermal monitoring of travellers.

It is important to note however, that automation does not in any way replace the necessary health and safety protocols such as hand sanitising and social distancing. What it does do, is exponentially decrease the spread of the virus by drastically reducing the number of physical touchpoints, and by avoiding the accumulation of travellers at COVID-19 screening or passenger verification checkpoints.
A caravan of at least 900 migrants have gathered in Honduras to begin a 2,000-mile walk towards the United States, just weeks after neighboring Guatemala reopened its borders following months of coronavirus lockdown restrictions.

The Hondurans began walking Wednesday night in the northwestern city of San Pedro Sula, testing a well-trod migration route now in times of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Calls for a new migrant caravan to leave from the San Pedro Sula bus station October 1 had been circulating on social media for weeks.

The caravan comes just two weeks after Guatemala reopened its borders after keeping them sealed for months to slow the spread of COVID-19.

But the majority of the migrants who gathered Wednesday decided not to wait for October, instead setting out in the dark of night carrying knapsacks and many wearing masks.

Hundreds of Hondurans set out by foot and tested the COVID-19 pandemic in an attempt to chase the dream of receiving asylum from the United States. It's estimated that 900 people left the city of San Pedro Sula on Wednesday night for the Guatemalan border

Hundreds of migrants began walking from the northwestern Honduras city of San Pedro Sula toward the Guatemala border, challenging a well-trod migration route now in times of the coronavirus epidemic

A woman in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, pushes a stroller as she and hundreds of other migrants abandoned their homes and headed toward Guatemala, where they hope to cross into Mexico before making their way to the souther United States border to seek asylum

Motorists stuck in traffic jams recorded the the groups quickly strung out along the highway with some catching rides while others continued to walk toward the Guatemala border.

Late Wednesday, Guatemala's immigration agency said in a statement that its counterpart in Honduras estimated 900 migrants were in the city of Choloma and were headed to the border crossing at Corinto.

Governments throughout the region made it known they were watching Wednesday.

Mexico's National Migration Institute said in a statement that it would enforce 'safe, orderly and legal' migration and not do anything to promote the formation of a migrant caravan.

The U.S. Embassy in Honduras said via Twitter Wednesday that migration to the U.S. was more difficult than ever right now and more dangerous because of coronavirus epidemic.

But the push factors driving migrants from Central America certainly haven't eased during the pandemic. The lack of jobs and struggle for families to put food on the table have only worsened.

Despite the threat of the deadly COVID-19 pandemic, it's estimated that 900 people formed a caravan in Honduras on Wednesday night and traveled to Guatemala. Their goal is to cross into the neighboring Central American nation and to enter Mexico before trekking north to the United States border to seek asylum

A Honduran family walks through the northwestern Honduran city of San Pedro Sula on Wednesday night with a caravan of about 900 migrants

The United Nation's International Labour Organization said Wednesday that at least 34 million jobs have been lost in Latin America due to the coronavirus pandemic. The ILO lists Latin America and the Caribbean as the worst-hit region in the world in terms of lost working hours, with a drop of 20.9% in the first three quarters of the year.

The flow of migrants north from Central America had slowed dramatically during the pandemic as countries throughout the region closed their borders.

Most migrant shelters along the principle routes north through Mexico closed their doors to new arrivals as they tried to keep the virus from spreading to vulnerable migrant populations. Mexico and the United States deported hundreds of migrants back to their home countries to try to empty detention centers.

The U.S. government used the pandemic to effectively shut down the asylum system at its southern border.

The Mexican government tried to bus asylum seekers stuck at its northern border south.

Under President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, Mexico has typically offered migrants the opportunity to seek asylum there, but many have their minds set on the United States. Migrants are also likely to find it more difficult to find work in Mexico now as the economy is expected to contract 10% this year due to the impact of the pandemic.

Migrants walk along a highway in hopes of reaching the distant United States, in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, on Wednesday

A group of Hondurans hop on the back of a pickup truck as they hitch a ride toward the Guatemala border on Wednesday night

Migrants walk along a highway in hopes of reaching the distant United States, in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, Wednesday

The departure of the group Wednesday night was reminiscent of a migrant caravan that formed two years ago shortly before U.S. midterm elections. It became a hot issue in the campaign fueling anti-immigrant rhetoric.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection stats show a significant drop in detainments of Honduran migrants at the southwestern border from October 2019 to August 2020.

CBP agents detained 3,857 unaccompanied children and 9,946 individuals. Figures for September have not been made available to the public.

During the same period from October 2018 to September 2019, the agency intercepted 20,398 children traveling alone and 188,416 individuals.

Under pressure from the U.S. government last year, Mexico took a more aggressive approach toward migrants after President Donald Trump threatened to impose tariffs on imports. Lopez Obrador authorized the deployment of Mexico's National Guard to intercept them on highways and worked to keep massive caravans seen in previous years from forming.

Central American migrants began traveling in large groups in recent years, seeking safety in numbers and in some cases avoiding the cost of smugglers. They drew significant attention, but were a fraction of the everyday migration flow toward the U.S. border.
Similar to when a natural disaster hits, the onslaught of COVID-19 onto dairy sales this spring required immediate efforts to stem the bleeding. Only once the situation became more under control could we step back to gauge the larger picture of what long-term effects could come out of the events.

As panic buying slowed and the country settled into a more regular stay-at-home routine, the California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) was able to look at what new needs and desires consumers had, detailed CEO John Talbot on the September 23 Hoards Dairyman DairyLivestream sponsored by World Dairy Expo.

Talbot identified two main areas that saw resurgences during the pandemic and offer opportunities for dairy: snacks and breakfast.

The snack category continued tremendous growth during the pandemic. Data from Dairy Management Inc. shows that morning snacking is now prevalent in 75% of adults, Talbot said. Afternoon snacking has gone from 65% of adults to 91%, he continued. This is an area that seems just ripe for innovation.

CMAB is working to harness the power of snacking innovation in this years installment of their accelerator program, which connects start-up entrepreneurs with processors and investors to help launch their products. Last years focus was on fluid milk, but this year we decided to change the theme to snacking because of what we were seeing in COVID-19. Were calling this years effort the Snackcelerator, Talbot shared.

Weve been absolutely amazed. We received 76 entries, so now were trying to figure out how to make this an even bigger event than what we originally planned, he said. Were doing this kind of March Madness meets Shark Tank, and were going to borrow from each. In March Madness, you know about the Sweet Sixteen; in our program, were going to have the Sweet and Savory Sixteen. Were going to take the top eight sweet snack entries and put them head-to-head with the top eight savory snack entries and see who comes out on top.

Were very excited to see how this kind of event might wrap in with a national innovation program, Talbot added.

Additionally, more people have had more time for breakfast during the pandemic. The re-emergence of the family breakfast has been a wonderful thing, Talbot stated. Time spent at breakfast equals more time spent with dairy.

The checkoff organization in the countrys top dairy-producing state has used that perspective to launch a new campaign. The Day Can Wait encourages consumers to take even a small amount of time to eat breakfast, and to do it with their family. Talbot explained, This campaign will combine advertising, social media, and influencer programs. It is just getting kicked off right now.

An ongoing series of events

DairyLivestream will air twice each month for the remainder of this year. The next broadcast on Wednesday, October 7 at 11 a.m. CST will focus on Can we sell that cheese? Each episode is designed for panelists to answer over 30 minutes of audience questions. If you havent joined a DairyLivestream broadcast yet, register here. Registering once registers you for all future events.

To comment, email your remarks to intel@hoards.com.

(c) Hoard's Dairyman Intel 2020

September 28, 2020
The Commonwealth has closed international borders and WA Premier Mark McGowan has repeatedly said the states hard border with the eastern states would not be removed until community transmission was eliminated, which required 28 days without a mystery infection being recorded across the country. On Thursday, he veered from his messaging, implying opening the state would also result in West Australians spending their tourism dollars elsewhere in the country and losing their jobs to those in the eastern states. The benefit to opening to the Northern Territory or South Australia for Western Australia is not there, there is no benefit," he said. Far more West Australians will go there on holidays than people from South Australia or the Northern Territory coming here on holidays. All we will do is we will lose jobs.

University of Notre Dame political analyst Martin Drum said while the majority of West Australians supported Mr McGowans hard border stance, public sentiment would begin to shift come Christmas as more realistic timeframes for a vaccine sunk in and other states with the virus under control began opening to one another. Over the next month or two, thats when it gets interesting, he said of the state governments next move. "People understand McGowan and the government's stance even where they have family over east, they still understand it because of the circumstances, but it just starts changing when you have lower levels of community transmission. "You can probably announce the lowering of the border a month out from Christmas and still give people time to book flights, etcetera, to make plans for the summer holidays, but any later than that and it starts getting tricky and you start copping a lot of flack from people that would like to see their family, in particular over Christmas." Finance Minister Mathias Cormann echoed Dr Drums view that the tide would soon turn on WAs hard border stance.

I have long argued there is no public health upside from keeping our state borders closed to those jurisdictions which are in the same or a better position than WA, he said. Im sure that over time that will become the prevailing public view. We cant have this situation where state borders are going to be closed based on arbitrary political judgements and not for proper public health reasons for months on end. We need a predictable exit strategy, based on objective, predictable public health criteria and I would like to see some evidence that the state government is giving itself the tools to re-open our economy to other Australian jurisdictions in a COVID-safe way. Prime Minister Scott Morrison has flagged the possibility of opening Australias international border to other countries with low community transmission, such as New Zealand and Japan.

Minister for Finance, Mathias Cormann. Credit:Sydney Morning Herald However a spokesman for the McGowan government said the state had not been told of any future changes to the international border. International arrivals are a matter for the Commonwealth Government, however, we have not received any indication that changes will be made for their border arrangements at this point, he said. Well continue to work productively with the Commonwealth on these issues. Any significant increase to international arrivals at this point in time would put severe strain on hotel quarantine systems.

The spokesman did not directly respond to whether there was an exit plan out of the pandemic which did not involve WA having to accept the virus back into the community in some capacity. Asked if the state government had considered a future scenario for if a vaccine continued to elude scientists long-term, he said, WAs current health advice is not based on a vaccine". Our hard border continues to be one of our most effective weapons in stopping the spread of COVID-19 into our state and for that reason the hard border will stand until the health advice says otherwise, he said. Professor Collignon said he believed nation-wide elimination  the requirement for WA to open its interstate border  was still possible, despite Victorias second wave. However, he argued travel should be permitted across Australia if the infection rate in a region is less than one in every 300,000 to 400,000 people.
President Muhammadu Buhari has announced a new price for the pump price of petrol in the country. Buhari said fuel will now be sold ...

President Muhammadu Buhari has announced a new price for the pump price of petrol in the country.

Buhari said fuel will now be sold at N161 per liter in Nigeria, noting that other nations such as Ghana, Niger, Chad Saudi Arabia and other oil-producing countries sell petrol on a higher prices than Nigeria.

He lambasted the previuos governments from 1999 to 2015 for criticising his administration when they allegedly presided over the near-destruction of the country.

Buhari, in his nationwide broadcast to mark the Independence Day celebration, said no government in the past did what his administration is doing with such scarce resources.

Buhari said his government has managed to keep things going in spite of the disproportionate spending on security.

He said that the past administrations lack the effrontry to criticise the current administration because they had the opportunity to develop and take the country to a greater height.

Those in the previous Governments from 1999  2015 who presided over the near destruction of the country have now the impudence to attempt to criticize our efforts, he said.

Buhari said that in the circumstances, a responsible government must face realities and take tough decisions.

Petroleum prices in Nigeria are to be adjusted. We sell now at N161 per litre. A comparison with our neighbours will illustrate the point;

NEWS: Nigeria at 60: Abdulsalami Abubakar advises Nigerians

Chad which is an oil producing country charges N362 per litre

Niger, also an oil producing country sells 1 litre at N346.

In Ghana, another oil producing country, petroleum pump price is N326 per litre.

Further afield, Egypt charges N211 per litre. Saudi Arabia charges N168 per litre. It makes no sense for oil to be cheaper in Nigeria than in Saudi Arabia, he said.

Buhari noted that for the country to grow and achieve great things Nigerians need to solidify their strength, increase their commitment and encourage themselves to do that which is right.

Recall that the Nigerian government through the Petroleum Products Marketing Company (PPMC) had announced a new ex-depot price of N151.56 for petrol.
She delightedly revealed she's expecting her first child with boyfriend Josh Barker, earlier this month.

And there was further cause for celebration for Elyse Knowles on Wednesday, as she kicked off her 28th birthday with a low-key beach stroll in Byron Bay with her dogs.

The pregnant model concealed her blossoming bump in an oversized white shirt, which was loosely tucked into a pair of shorts.

Glowing! Pregnant Elyse Knowles kicked off her 28th birthday with a low-key beach stroll in Byron Bay with her dogs on Wednesday

Elyse looked every inch the boho beauty, and completed her look with a brown fedora and matching sandals.

The Block star was positively glowing as she enjoyed her outing with her pal and pet pooches.

Elyse and her boyfriend Josh have only recently returned from the Northern Territory, where they chose to announce their pregnancy news.

She shared the joyful news to her Instagram page on Wednesday night.

Mum to be: The pregnant model concealed her blossoming bump in an oversized white shirt, which was loosely tucked into a pair of shorts

Looking good: Elyse looked every inch the boho beauty, and completed her look with a brown fedora and matching sandals

'And then there were 3 #babybarker,' she wrote, alongside a gallery of images of the couple on holiday.

The announcement came four months after Elyse and Josh bought a $2.3million beach house in Byron Bay.

Their new 1960s built property is located in the old part of Byron Bay town, just a short walk from the main beach and surrounded by tranquil greenery.

Radiant: The Block star was positively glowing as she enjoyed her outing with her pal and pet pooches

Last year, Elyse told Daily Mail Australia that the couple had moved to Byron Bay from Melbourne while chasing a more sustainable lifestyle for themselves.

Speaking at an event in September, the model explained she'd physically confront strangers that she would see littering in Victoria, before eventually leaving.

She explained: 'I just can't see it being left on the ground and when they're dropping rubbish, I think they need to be told off.'
Hong Kong police have arrested at least 60 people on suspicion of unauthorised assembly on Chinas National Day holiday after crowds gathered on the streets of a popular shopping district chanting pro-democracy slogans.

Riot police have flooded the streets of Hong Kong to stamp out anti-government protests during China's National Day celebrations as pro-Beijing leader Carrie Lam has cheered the city's 'return to stability'.

Hundreds of officers in riot gear were seen on Thursday patrolling and heckling pro-democracy activists who were attending a banned march against a sweeping national security law imposed by Beijing.

The city's heightened security comes after its Chief Executive Lam participated in a flag-raising ceremony with other senior Hong Kong and mainland officials today to celebrate the Communist regime's 71st anniversary.

Hundreds of officers in riot gear are seen on Thursday patrolling and heckling pro-democracy activists who were marching against a sweeping national security law imposed by Beijing

Groups of officers in riot gear conducted stop-and-search operations along an expected marching route linking the prime shopping district of Causeway Bay with the administrative Admiralty district. The picture shows a protester arguing with officers in Hong Kong today

Hundreds of officers in riot gear are seen on Thursday patrolling and heckling pro-democracy activists who were marching against a sweeping national security law imposed by Beijing. A police officer displays a warning banner on China's National Day in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong

The heightened security comes as its leader Lam (pictured) attended a flag-raising ceremony with Chinese officials on Thuesday to celebrate the Communist regime's 71st anniversary

'Over the past three months, the plain truth is, and it is obvious to see, that stability has been restored to society while national security has been safeguarded, and our people can continue to enjoy their basic rights and freedoms,' Lam said.

As she spoke, groups of officers in riot gear conducted stop-and-search operations along an expected marching route linking the prime shopping district of Causeway Bay with the administrative Admiralty district.

Protesters wanted to march against Beijing's imposition of a sweeping national security law on June 30 and demand the return of 12 Hong Kong people China arrested at sea in August on their way to self-ruled Taiwan.

But authorities had denied permission for a protest march this year, citing security concerns and an anti-coronavirus ban on more than four people gathering in public.

Carrie Lam has today attended a flag-raising ceremony (pictured) with other senior Hong Kong and mainland officials to celebrate the Chinese Communist regime's 71st anniversary

Police officers search protesters during a banned rally on China's National Day in Hong Kong

Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam is pictured attending the flag-raising ceremony at the Golden Bauhinia Square to mark the 71st anniversary of Chinese National Day in Hong Kong

Hundreds of officers in riot gear are seen on Thursday patrolling and heckling pro-democracy activists who were marching against a sweeping national security law imposed by Beijing. Police officers put up a banner telling people to disperse during China's National Day

At the 2pm start time of the planned illegal protest, there was little sign of crowds gathering, although streets were crammed with riot police and reporters.

Police sent away any people who looked suspicious to them: one teenager playing protest songs into a woodwind instrument; a man dressed in black and holding a yellow balloon  colours associated with pro-democracy supporters; a woman holding a copy of the Apple Daily anti-government tabloid.

Police were seen rounding up more than 50 people downtown and binding their wrists with plexicuffs before putting them on buses. Police said in a Facebook post that they were looking for two men who threw petrol bombs to bloc traffic in another area of the city.

Those arrested included two district councillors, police said, They added that the people were arrested after they ignored repeated warnings asking them to disperse.

'Hong Kong people have been sad and disappointed for a year. This is meant to be a holiday and the streets are full of police,' said 52-year-old Mandy as she was shopping with her husband.

'People are in no mood to celebrate. The government is using the national security laws and the pandemic to suppress our hearts.'

Late on Wednesday, police said they had arrested five people for inciting participation in illegal assemblies online.

Police check pedestrians during China's National Day in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong today

Protesters wanted to march against Beijing's imposition of a sweeping national security law on June 30. The picture shows a pro-democracy protester wearing a 'Free Tibet' T-shirt is surrounded by police during China's National Day in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong on Thursday

Anti-government protests, which often turned violent in 2019, have been smaller and fewer this year due to coronavirus restrictions on group gatherings and fears of arrest under the new security law. A young couple is stopped by police for checking during China's National Day

Anti-government protests, which often turned violent in 2019, have been smaller and fewer this year due to coronavirus restrictions on group gatherings and fears of arrest under the new security law.

The law punishes anything China considers as subversion, separatism, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in prison and gives police and Chinese security agents broad powers

Four members of the League of Social Democrats, led by veteran activist Leung Kwok-hung, known as Long Hair, marched holding a banner reading 'There is no national day celebration, only national mourning.' Four is the maximum number of people allowed to gather under coronavirus restrictions.

A sore point for democracy supporters has been the capture of 12 Hong Kong people by Chinese authorities, now in detention in the mainland city of Shenzhen, having been arrested for illegal border crossing and organising cross-border crimes.

Pro-democracy activists are surrounded by police officers as they march toward a flag raising ceremony in Hong Kong on China's National Day. The banner reads 'Stop One Party Ruling'

The heightened security comes as its leader Lam has today attended a flag-raising ceremony with other senior Chinese officials to celebrate the Communist regime's 71st anniversary

Helicopters fly the flags of China and Hong Kong Special Administrative Region during a flag-raising ceremony marking China's National Day at Golden Bauhinia Square in Hong Kong

All were suspected of committing crimes in Hong Kong related to last year's protests.

Their arrest has compounded the fears of many in Hong Kong about what they see as Chinas determination to end any push for greater democracy in the financial hub.

The October 1 Chinese National Day is resented by many democracy supporters who say Beijing is eroding the wide-ranging liberties the former British colony was promised when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997.

For pro-Beijing supporters, it is an opportunity to drum up patriotism in China's most restive city.

At the flag-raising ceremony, Lam praised China's success in curbing the coronavirus and its economic recovery, calling it 'a rare bright spot' which 'has shown once again the shift of the global economic focus from the West to the East.'
Bir-Lehlou (Liberated Territories), 27 September 2020 (SPS) - The Polisario Front and the SADR government have alerted the international community, the United Nations and its mission for the organization of the referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO), on the seriousness of the escalation led by the Moroccan occupation state, calling on the UN Security Council to take a clear and firm position in order to save international peace and security in the region.



The Minister of Information, the government's spokesperson, warned in a statement of the danger of Morocco's current extensive campaign to tarnish the reputation of the Polisario Front, on the eve of the Security Council's debates on the issue of Western Sahara and in light of the successive positions expressed before the 75th session of the UN General Assembly by states and governments supporting the right of the Sahrawi people to self-determination and independence.



"This frantic campaign demonstrates Morocco's aggressive intentions to drag the entire region into an escalation towards the unknown, due to the march of Sahrawi civilians in peaceful protest against the illegal passage of El Guergarat", he said, underlining that this breach constitutes a violation of the ceasefire, signed in 1991 between the two parties to the conflict (the Polisario Front and Morocco) under the auspices of the UN and the OAU, currently AU.



Morocco, through this campaign, is trying unambiguously to drag the whole region into an escalation towards the unknown, in order to maintain its illegal occupation of our homeland, plunder our wealth and prevent our people from exercising their inalienable right to self-determination and independence, the spokesman pointed out.



He also noted that Morocco is trying to divert public attention from the reality of Morocco's internal political, social and economic problems, "which will not escape its inevitable fate, namely the definitive withdrawal from our homeland"; concluded the statement of the government spokesperson. (SPS)



062/SPS/T
Tech companies are bracing for a tough day in three separate Capitol Hill committees Thursday, as lawmakers move to show they're tough on social media platforms in the days leading up to the election.

Why it matters: Big Tech has become a go-to punching bag for both the right and left, and tech policy has become increasingly fertile ground for grievance politics.

What's happening: First, the Senate Commerce Committee is voting to authorize subpoenas of three CEOs  Twitter's Jack Dorsey, Google's Sundar Pichai and Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg  to testify at a hearing to discuss Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, the tech industry's prized and highly contentious third-party content liability shield.

The Trump administration, which has been attacking Section 230 as part of its allegations of bias against conservatives by social media platforms, supports the subpoena move, a White House spokesperson said. Senate Commerce Republicans expect Democrats to boycott the vote, said a Senate staffer.

Twitter, Google and Facebook declined to comment on the vote.

Over in the Senate Judiciary Committee, Sen. Lindsey Graham will push forward a bill that combines changes to copyright with amending Section 230 to limit the law's civil liability protections.

The House Judiciary antitrust subcommittee will have its first follow-up hearing on the state of competition in digital markets since it heard testimony from Zuckerberg, Pichai, Apple's Tim Cook and Amazon's Jeff Bezos on antitrust and competition in July.

Reality check: It's nearly certain a Section 230 reform bill and antitrust legislation will not pass before the end of the year. But lawmakers are determined to show they are working on reining in big tech on everything from antitrust to misinformation to bias as the election and a new Congress near.

What they're saying: During the House Judiciary hearing, lawmakers will hear from academics and former government antitrust regulators, Axios scooped Tuesday. Committee chairman David Cicilline said the hearing is meant to explore possible remedies to competition problems in the digital market.

Proposed legislation isn't likely until after the report has been issued, Rep. Ken Buck, a Republican on the committee, told Axios ahead of the hearing. That report is expected as early as Monday.

But expectations of passing new bills this Congress are low, he said: "It's futile to run a long-distance race when there is no air left in the room," Buck said.

He said that though Republicans and Democrats disagree on many competition and content moderation issues, he believes there's a "sweet spot" in the middle where the two sides can agree. Still, he suggests using a "scalpel and not a chainsaw" for any changes to antitrust law.

That's far less aggressive than some ideas from Cicilline, who has floated a "Glass-Steagall" act for the internet.

The Section 230-related moves "look a lot like pre-election base energizing," one tech industry insider told Axios. Just this week, two new Section 230 bills dropped  one from Sens. Joe Manchin (D-W. Va.) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) and another from Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.).

Last week, the White House applauded the Justice Department proposing amendments to Section 230 in a meeting with Republican state attorneys general as an antitrust suit against Google looms.

Our thought bubble: Time is on tech's side to endure these particular regulatory headwinds without much damage, but a fuller reckoning may come next year.
A former footman to the Queen turned publican found with a stash of child sex images was spared community service so that his village pub could stay open.

Christian Diamant was found to have 28 indecent pictures and three videos of children when arrested by police in January.

The 51-year-old, who owns the White Horse Inn in Bridge, near Canterbury, Kent, admitted three charges of having indecent pictures and videos of children on his iPhone.

But he was not given unpaid work by a judge who said he had 'no desire to upset his business'.

Diamant served as a footman to the Queen at Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle and was also an under-butler for the Queen, serving at state visits and the wedding of Prince Edward and Sophie, Countess of Wessex, in 1999.

Christian Diamant (pictured) a former footman to the Queen, was found with a stash of child sex images but spared community service

Diamant took over the White Horse last year, describing himself as a 'fun, flamboyant' pub owner.

When Diamant appeared for sentencing at Canterbury Crown Court the judge was told he did not have a sexual interest in children and sentenced him to a community rehabilitation order.

The pub owner admitted having an addiction to chatting with gay men on Grindr and sometimes having video calls and chats online to discuss and watch child sex abuse, the court heard.

Of the indecent content, the videos and one still picture were of the worst category of abuse, police said.

But his defence solicitor stressed Diamant, 'did not have a sexual interest in children' and never shared the content with others.

Diamant was made the subject of a two-year community rehabilitation order with a condition that he attends a sex offenders programme.

He was also made subject of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order which includes restrictions on his use of the internet for the next five years.

Diamant has been allowed to continue to run his pub the White Horse Inn in Bridge, (pictured) near Canterbury, Kent, because the judge said he had 'no desire to upset his business'

The judge, Recorder Stuart Trimmer QC, said Diamant's offending was something he 'slipped into', but that he shows desire to get back on track.

He said: 'You have shown you are deeply ashamed and desperate to address the causes of your offending.

'You've demonstrated steps to address the offending and accepted what you have done. This sentence is to ensure you escape this and do not fall again.'

Recorder Trimmer said he had 'no desire' to order Diamant carry out unpaid work as it would upset his current business at the White Horse.

When approached for comment after his conviction, he said: 'The judge made his judgement and was sympathetic to me trying to move forward and to protect jobs.'
Today, the 1st of October 2020, Nigeria celebrates its diamond jubilee  60 years of independence from colonial rule  a feet that Ghana achieved a few years back.



Throughout the years weve shared a great bound of companionship wrapped in rivalry. In the wake of the recent misunderstandings amongst Ghanaian and Nigerian traders that escalated tensions, its become necessary that we remind ourselves of the great positive bounds we share, especially through music!



Thats what Ghana-Naija represents. Knii Lantes 6th single this year is a celebration of both cultures through the eyes of a Ghanaian and Nigerian couple in love.



Lets celebrate the love we share for food, sports, women & of course music. Enjoy this beautiful afro-pop jam, laced with guitar strings reminiscent of highlife sounds shared by both cultures. Ghana-Naija was produced by Knii Lante & DatBeatGod, now available on audiomack.





Listen here -https://audiomack.com/knii-lante/song/ghana-naija









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SAN FRANCISCO  Crews kept a wary eye Thursday on potentially turbulent winds that could whip up two fierce wildfires in Northern California amid fears one could merge with a third blaze into a mega-inferno of more than 1 million acres.

Weather forecasts called for gusty winds, extreme heat and low humidity in the wine country north of San Francisco, which may further fuel the Glass Fire as it continues to torch the hills above the town of Calistoga.

Similar conditions may prompt the Zogg Fire, which has burned through 55,803 acres near Redding and left four people dead, to fuse with the August Complex Fire  which has already incinerated 956,084 acres.

"It's likely the Zogg Fire may make its way into the August Complex, (which) remains the largest wildfire in terms of total acreage burned in California's history," California Gov. Gavin Newsom warned this week.

The August Complex Fire was 47% contained as of Thursday night; the Zogg Fire was 39% contained, nearly four times as much as the previous day as firefighters made considerable progress.

In the wine country counties of Napa and Sonoma, more than 70,000 people remained under evacuation orders Thursday as the Glass Fire continued to rage through the rolling pastures and bucolic hills. The blaze, at just 5% containment, has burned 58,880 acres and destroyed 589 homes and businesses, including wineries and beloved landmarks such as Napa's famed Restaurant at Meadowood.

Latest news on Zogg Fire: Fourth person dies in Zogg Fire; other updates

As flames closed in, firefighters were battling to save Calistoga in Napa County, which evacuated its entire population of 5,000 on Monday. More fire crews and equipment were deployed overnight, raising the number of firefighters to 2,100. Red flag warnings of extreme fire danger were expected to continue into Friday evening for large stretches of Northern California.

Every time we try to construct some control lines, the fire is outflanking us, so we have to pull back, Cal Fire Chief Mark Brunton said.

Story continues

Pacific Gas & Electric also cut power to an additional 3,100 customers in Napa County at the request of firefighters, the Santa Rosa Press Democrat reported.

In addition to destruction, fear and displacement, the fires caused air quality to deteriorate markedly throughout Northern California, about half of which was blanketed by unhealthy air.

Santa Rosa firefighters examine the left over destruction in the Skyhawk neighborhood in Santa Rosa, Calif., on Sept. 29, 2020.

Heartbroken Santa Rosa residents Nikki and Kevin Conant returned to their wine country rental home Wednesday to find a charred shell and incinerated chunks of wine barrels they used for custom-made art and furniture.

California wine country: Wildfire-fatigued residents weigh the unthinkable: Moving out

They recalled spotting an orange glow in the hills near their home as they fled Sunday  and within 45 minutes, they could hear ominous sounds of trees crackling and propane tanks exploding.

I thought we were going to burn alive. I really did. It was horrible, Nikki Conant said.

Luis Garcia Ochoa, who lives in Calistoga, said he could see the flames after getting an evacuation alert on his phone at 5 a.m. Sunday. He and his family also had to flee their home during the 2017 wine country fires that killed 22, but this felt like a closer call.

It was more dangerous this time because some houses around the town have already burned down, and also a couple of hotels,'' Garcia Ochoa said.

The 2017 Tubbs Fire, at the time the most destructive blaze in California history, inflicted much of its damage in Santa Rosa. James Weathers and his wife, Linda, have lived in the city for 15 years and had to escape their home then and again this year.

As ash fluttered in the air outside the Finley Community Center, where they're sheltering, James Weathers shuddered at the thought of wildfire evacuations becoming regular events in the area.

This cant be the new normal,'' he said. "I refuse to believe that.

The 2020 wildfire season has been exhausting. More than 8,100 wildfires have burned through more than 3.9 million acres this year, according to Cal Fire. Since Aug. 15  when Californias fire activity elevated  30 people have died, and more than 7,500 structures have been destroyed.

'Like God has no sympathy' Crews struggle with deadly wildfires racing through Northern California, wine country

On Wednesday, officials said wind-whipped flames led two firefighters battling the Glass Fire to deploy the emergency fire shelters they carry. As flames overwhelmed them, the firefighters covered themselves on the ground with the space blanket-looking devices. They were not injured, Cal Fire said.

But it was the third time fire crews have had to deploy the shelters this month  a last-resort effort to save their lives that was once very rare.

Contributing: Mike Chapman, Redding (Calif.) Record Searchlight; The Associated Press

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: California wildfires: Zogg Fire, Glass Fire, megafire, wine country
COLUMBUS, OhioAmazon.com is not liable for the death of a Northeast Ohio teenager who overdosed on caffeine powder promoted by and purchased on the e-retail giants website, the Ohio Supreme Court ruled Thursday.

The decision is the latest in a series of court rulings around the country that Amazon isnt legally liable for defective or unsafe products sold on the companys website by third-party vendors.

The case was brought after Logan Stiner, a high-school senior in Lorain County, died in 2014 after ingesting Hard Rhino Pure Caffeine powder given by a friend who purchased it on Amazon after the website recommended it as a product you may like while she was searching for a pre-workout supplement. The powder was offered by Tenkoris, a third-party wholesaler.

At the time, there were no federal or state regulations restricting the sale of caffeine powder, though after Stiners death, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a safety alert and Amazon prohibited further sales of the product on its website.

An attorney for Stiners family argued that Amazon should be considered a supplier under state law and therefore should pay compensatory damages for not making sure the products they offer on their site are safe.

But Justice Judith French, writing for the court, held that Amazon is not a supplier, as the company never had control over the caffeine powder.

Tenkoris, French wrote, had sole responsibility for the fulfillment, packaging, labeling, and shipping of the product directly to customers. ... Tenkoris, not Amazon, decided what to sell on Amazon, and by agreement, took on the responsibility of sourcing the product from the manufacturer until it reached the end user. French also noted that the purchase order indicated the powder was sold by Tenkoris and that the buyer should contact Tenkoris with any questions.

French pointed to federal court rulings that sided with Amazon in similar product-liability cases in New Jersey, Tennessee and California.

She further stated that the Stiner familys attorney didnt show that holding Amazon liable in this case would promote product safety. Because Amazon does not have a relationship with the manufacturers of third-party products, Amazon lacks control over product safety, French wrote.

Chief Justice Maureen OConnor and Justices Sharon L. Kennedy, Patrick F. Fischer, R. Patrick DeWine, and Melody J. Stewart joined Justice Frenchs opinion.

Justice Michael P. Donnelly concurred in judgment only, writing he reluctantly agrees that under Ohios 32-year-old product liability law, Amazon is not a supplier.

However, Donnelly urged state lawmakers to change the law, arguing its inequitable to regulate online commerce using a law passed before the rise of the Internet.

The divide between the pre-Internet age and the current age is so profound that laws like this Act might as well have been written in the stone age, Donnelly wrote.

Read more Ohio politics and government stories:

Ohio Medicaid work requirements, planned to begin Jan. 1, on hold

New Ohio unemployment claims rise for the second straight week

Energy Harbor, FirstEnergy officials should testify before Ohio lawmakers about nuclear plants' profitability, AG Dave Yost says

Joe Biden says Donald Trump looks down on working class voters in post-debate Cleveland campaign stop

Ohio Supreme Court unanimously upholds felony murder conviction in death of 5-year-old TaNaejah McCloud
Chandigarh, Oct 1 : Strict monitoring of asymptomatic and mild symptomatic Covid patients in home isolation will begin in Punjab from Friday, with the state government engaging a consortium of professional home healthcare companies for their regular monitoring.

This was disclosed by an official spokesperson after a Covid video review by Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Thursday afternoon.

Health Secretary Hussan Lal informed the meeting that Health Vista Private Limited has been hired for the purpose, and their professional health care tele-callers will monitor, on a daily basis, the health of Covid patients in home isolation for less than 10 days.

The consortium has the experience of such monitoring in other states, including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Karnataka.

Daily calling of home isolation patients for monitoring their well-being will be done from phone numbers 01206679850, 08068972066 and 04068118722, according to the spokesperson, who said patients 40 years and above will be monitored on priority under this system.

Patients are being request to respond to these numbers when they receive calls from these.

For any emergency or ambulance requirement 108 or 104 can be dialled.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 1)  Acting Malay town Mayor Frolibar Bautista said there will be no liquor ban as Boracay reopens to local tourism.

However, in a press conference on Thursday, Bautista said that disco bars will not be allowed to operate in the island.

Boracay started accepting local tourists outside Western Visayas from both areas under general community quarantine and modified general community quarantine on Oct. 1. Tourists are required to have a negative RT-PCR test result 48 to 72 hours prior to their travel to the Aklan island.

The top destination is allowed to welcome 19,000 tourists a day, and 4,474 rooms, and 204 accommodations have been authorized.

The Department of Tourism will closely monitor the slow reopening of Boracay to local tourism before they allow foreigners, according to Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat.

She added that the restarting of economy is much urgent among workers in the tourism sector who have lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic. She said some 4.8 million workers in the tourism industry have been laid off or have had their salaries cut.

You can imagine yong hirap na dinadanas ng ating stakeholders (the hardship our stakeholders are experiencing)," Romulo-Puyat said. "Ninety-nine percent of those in the accommodation sectors are from MSMEs.
The head of the Federal Aviation Administration piloted a Boeing 737 Max for about two hours over Seattle on Wednesday, saying he felt comfortable in the cockpit but acknowledging there's still "some work to do."

"I like what I saw, and I felt prepared," FAA Chief Steve Dickson told reporters, after completing the evaluation flight. "I think, most importantly, I felt that the training prepared me to be very comfortable."

MORE: Boeing's 737 Max inches closer to recertification

Dickson, who was a pilot and an executive at Delta Air Lines before taking the over at the FAA, promised he would not sign off on the airplane returning to the skies until he flew it himself.

PHOTO: FAA chief Steve Dickson walks around a Boeing 737 MAX, conducting a pre-flight check ahead of take-off from Boeing Field on Sept. 30, 2020, in Seattle. (Mike Siegel/Pool via Getty Images)

The Boeing 737 Max has been grounded for over a year and a half after it was flown in two crashes that killed a total of 346 people.

Investigators found that both crashes were tied to the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System, or MCAS, software that had been designed to help stabilize the jet after heavier, repositioned engines placed on the aircraft caused the plane's nose to point too far upward in certain circumstances.

MORE: Flight testing for Boeing's 737 Max begins

In both crashes, incorrect data from a faulty sensor caused the MCAS to misfire, forcing the plane's nose down repeatedly, even as pilots struggled to regain altitude. MCAS was not mentioned in the pilot manual.

Boeing said it's rewritten not only the MCAS software but the entire flight computer software.

The FAA, European Union Aviation Safety Agency and Canada already have completed their own Max test flights. Test pilots tried to replicate scenarios where the old MCAS misfired and forced them into dives or tight turns.

PHOTO: FAA chief Steve Dickson walks out of a Boeing 737 MAX, after concluding a test flight and landing at Boeing Field in Seattle Sept. 30, 2020. (Mike Siegel/Pool via AP)

Although Dickson said the Max is in the "homestretch" of the recertification process, a number of steps remain before it can return to commercial service, including airlines drafting their own pilot training, getting those trainings approved and then providing them to their pilots.

Story continues

Last week, American Airlines began to schedule training for 737 Max pilots beginning in November, which, according to an internal memo obtained by ABC News, is expected to be completed by January 2021.

MORE: House committee final report says Boeing, FAA failures to blame for deadly 737 MAX crashes

The 737 Max has been the subject of multiple investigations from congressional committees and U.S. agencies, including the Department of Justice and the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Two weeks ago the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure released a scathing report that concluded technical design flaws, faulty assumptions about pilot responses and management failures by both Boeing and the FAA were to blame for the crashes that killed hundreds.

Some lawmakers are pushing to reform the aircraft certification process, which would include increased federal oversight of manufacturers.

ABC News' Amanda Maile contributed to this report.

FAA chief pilots Boeing 737 Max, says 'I like what I saw' originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
GENESEE COUNTY, MI -- A state government veteran whos seeking his third term in the Michigan House of Representatives is being challenged by a former teacher and Burton resident in the 50th District. Incumbent Tim Sneller, D-Burton, is opposed by Republican Christina Fitchett-Hickson in the race to represent voters in the cities of Grand Blanc and Burton, as well as Grand Blanc and Mundy townships. Sneller won his primary election with 9,741 vote while Fitchett-Hickson won a three-way Republican primary with 2,446 of 6,207 votes cast. This year, MLive Media Group partnered with the League of Women Voters of Michigan to provide candidate information for readers. Each candidate was asked to outline their stances on a variety of public policy issues. Information on all state and federal races and many of Michigans county and local races is available at Vote411.org, an online voter guide created by the League of Women Voters. The following background information was provided by each candidate. Sneller is in his second term as a state legislator and worked more than 30 years as a legislative aide. He graduated from Burton Bentley High School and earned both a bachelors degree and a secondary teaching certificate from the University of Michigan-Flint. He previously worked at General Motors' Flint Assembly plant. Fitchett-Hickson is a small business owner, precinct delegate and independent contractor in sales and marketing. She worked as a teacher for Flint Community Schools and is a graduate of Bendle High School who attended the University of Michigan-Flint, receiving a bachelors degree from Marygrove Community College. All responses in the voter guide were submitted directly by the candidates and have not been edited by the League of Women Voters, except for a necessary cut if a reply exceeded character limitations. Spelling and grammar were not corrected. Publication of candidate statements and opinions is solely in the interest of public service and should not be considered as an endorsement. The League never supports or opposes any candidates or political parties. All responses in the voter guide were submitted directly by the candidate and have not been edited by the League of Women Voters, except for a necessary cut if a reply exceeded character limitations. Spelling and grammar were not corrected. Publication of candidate statements and opinions is solely in the interest of public service and should NOT be considered as an endorsement. The League never supports or opposes any candidates or political parties.

Heres a look at how the candidates responded to questions on some key issues.

EDUCATION: What is your position on the role of public funding of education in Michigan? What measures do you support/propose to improve educational outcomes and accessibility for all Michigan students?

Sneller: As a former teacher, I understand that funding for education is crucial to our students and Michigans future, and I know we need to better support teachers because they are educating our next workforce and community leaders. In order to have a quality education, we need to improve our education policies and invest in public schools to ensure that our students get the best education possible. We need to stop funding for-profit charter schools that are failing to educate our students, hold accountable all schools that receive public funds (including cyber schools), and make college affordable for all students.

Fitchett-Hickson: As a public school teacher, I saw the importance of a quality education and our public funding . I believe that both Public and private schools can both co-exist together and receive public funds as they have for many years now. Both kinds of schools should be a choice and should be held accountable to the same high standards. We can use this opportunity to improve their quality of education by fixing the many problems with common core. We need to accommodate all children of Michigan for they need different types of support. Children all learn differently & thrive in certain types of learning environments.

ECONOMIC SECURITY: What policies do you support to increase jobs and help Michigan residents improve their economic positions, in general and given the pandemic?

Sneller: We need to reinstate the prevailing wage and right-to-work laws so we can provide workers a fair wage and help build a stronger community and economy. We also need corporations to pay their fair share and provide more support for small businesses. I also support equal pay for equal work and making college more affordable for all students. Since the pandemic, issues with paid sick leave and affordable, accessible child care have been exposed and policies to address these issues should be considered. By working collaboratively, we can increase economic development, create jobs, and help our businesses grow and succeed.

Fitchett-Hickson: There are several strategies that I believe will help Michigan bounce back from the pandemic. Firstly, we need to open Michigan safely and quickly. We need to encourage families and businesses to move back to Michigan by keeping our taxes low. Secondly, we need to take advantage of the new skilled labor jobs that have been brought back in the last 4 years. We can team up with GM etc. to provide training early on as more classes offered in our high schools or as apprenticeships in trade schools. This will create more affordable options when they graduate high school and help decrease future college loan debt.

ELECTIONS: What state policies do you support regarding Michigan elections, voting and campaign funding? Do you support mailing ballots to all eligible voters?

Sneller: I believe that voting should be made easier for Michigan residents and I was happy to see recent ballot proposals pass to do just that, for example no-reason absentee voting. Again, I support making it easier for people to vote and that includes mailing applications and ballots to all eligible voters.

Fitchett-Hickson: I support MI absentee voting in which you must request a ballot by filling out an application where they verify your signature by checking your ID. This process allows them to send a ballot securely to the voter so they can then fill it out and drop it off in the drop box or in the mail box. However, the mass mailing of unrequested ballots would cause, not only a delay in the election results, but sending ballots to those who wouldnt properly complete the process. This would allow those ballots to arrive unsecured where they could be discarded as junk mail and later harvested, putting our elections at risk.

ENVIRONMENT/ENERGY: What actions or policies do you support to protect Michigans water, air and land for current and future generations? What is your position on energy efficiency and renewable energy?

Sneller: Its our duty to protect and maintain the environment to ensure our natural resources stay pristine for future generations to enjoy. We need to strengthen our protections for clean water and air, toughen penalties for corporate polluters, ensure that environmental concerns are heard, and adequately invest in our natural resources. We need more oversight and care for our Great Lakes, and that includes more oversight for Enbridge Pipeline 5. Im proud to say that I co-sponsored legislation with my colleagues to provide greater state oversight for oil and gas pipelines.

Fitchett-Hickson: As a teacher, I have always taught and supported our need for clean water, air and land for our future generations. I have even purchased a VOLT of which I have driven to many of our states. We can encourage the use of electric cars in our state by increasing technology and improving the efficiency of charging them. I have also lived where I depended on well water and know the importance of keeping big companies & businesses in check. Weve seen the damage poor water quality can do and we will keep our state safe by holding offending companies accountable to our high standards of preservation of natural resources.

SOCIAL JUSTICE: How would you address the racial, economic, health, education, etc. inequities, including Michigans 20% of children and 17% of seniors living in poverty?

Sneller: To promote social justice in our state, one major issue we need to focus on is criminal justice reform. I also believe in a womans right to make her own healthcare decisions, equal pay for equal work, and making college more affordable for all students.

Fitchett-Hickson: We need to encourage those who are still struggling to find a job to take advantage of the many new good paying job opportunities available to Michiganders that were added in the last 4 years. We need to also talk about criminal justice reform and how our citizens deserve to be able to take advantage of the new First Step Act passed recently that helps to rehabilitate those who truly want a 2nd chance at being a productive member of our community. Id like to propose a change in policy that would help seniors living in poverty to be eligible for state assistance and have it based on need and income and not age.

GUNS: Do you believe that Michigan has a gun violence problem? If so, what measures would you support to alleviate this problem?

Sneller: I support the Second Amendment and the right of Michiganders to own and maintain firearms, however, I also want to ensure the publics overall protection and adopt and enforce responsible gun laws that are also constitutional. In order to do this we need to have a real discussion about how to keep our children and communities safe. One measure I support to alleviate the gun violence problem is addressing the issue of domestic violence, and prohibiting those aggressors from having weapons.

Fitchett-Hickson: I support the 2nd Amendment & believe in the right for our citizens to keep & bear arms. Responsible gun ownership is the key to a safe community & it is up to we the people to make sure we follow gun safety. We can also encourage the support of police along with enforcement of laws already in place. Id like to propose that schools adopt partnerships with officers to educate children in the law & what is expected when dealing with officers, helping both officers & citizens to develop respect for one another. Studies have shown an increase in school attendance & decrease in gangs & violence with partnerships.
The Senate passed a stopgap spending bill on Wednesday to prevent a partial government shutdown at midnight.

Voting 84-10, the Republican-led Senate passed the stopgap spending bill, which extends federal agency funding until December 11, reported New York Post.

Passing the stopgap spending bill not only stops a possible government shutdown but also avoids a bipartisan fight before Election Day on November 3.

If the bill had not been passed, a government shutdown would happen on October 1, and funds will run out for the government.

The bill was passed in the House last week at a 359-57 vote. Now, the bill will go to President Donald Trump's desk for signing.

Once Trump has signed the bill, federal workers will avoid missing paychecks, and funds won't run out at midnight. With the midnight deadline, Trump has to work fast in signing the bill and make sure it's done by the end of the day.

"It should have already been done," said Senator Richard C. Shelby, the Appropriations Committee chairman, in a New York Times report. "There's overwhelming support - you need to bring certainty to the government."

The stopgap bill started as an informal agreement between House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin earlier this month. They brokered the short-term spending bill as negotiations on the stimulus bill continue.

Annual appropriations for the new fiscal year broke down in the Senate this year. With many funding bills pending this year, it is unlikely for the $1.3 trillion funding to be enacted this year.

It is even more unlikely if there will be a change of president after the election, where Democratic candidate Joe Biden wins the polls and replaces Trump.

What Comes After Election?

This deal averting government shutdown is a matter that clearly has bipartisan support. But, understandably, both parties do not want to experience a shutdown right now.

Tensions are running especially high, not just with the coming elections but also with the Senate's high-stakes battle over Trump's Supreme Court pick, Amy Coney Barrett.

The spending bill can ensure the government doesn't collapse before the elections, but what comes after is still troubling.

The threat of a shutdown still looms after the election, and a fight over funding the government is sure to ensue, CNN said in a report.

What will the Stopgap Spending Bill Include?

Pelosi said in a statement that there were various policy concessions involved in the drafting of the bill.

She said there would be $8 billion in food assistance over current spending levels. There will also be billions of dollars sent to the Commodity Credit Corporation as "funds for farmers."

The bill prevents the use of these CCC funds "from being misused for a Big Oil bailout."

The CCC provision was a priority of the Republican side of the aisle, while food assistance was a priority of Democrats.

Both sides of the chambers said the goal, for now, is to pass funding bills for what is left for the fiscal year. But they also noted that there might be some changes based on what happens in the November elections.

Check these out!

Senate Votes to Advance Stopgap Bill to Avert Shutdown

House Strikes Deal on Stopgap to Avoid Government Shutdown

Mnuchin, Pelosi Reach 'Informal Deal' to Avoid Government Shutdown
A McDonald's worker who glassed a teacher after her friend broke her nose during a vicious attack in an unsettled row about a man have both been spared jail.

Lesley Herbert, 21, threw a glass at Sarah Wright moments after her former Boots colleague Jessica Winstanley, 20, kicked her on the floor.

Herbert and Winstanley both pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm at an earlier hearing, while Herbert also admitted unlawful wounding.

But they were yesterday spared jail for the 'deeply unpleasant' attack which left Ms Wright scarred, cut and bruised.

The court heard the victim had worked at a Boots store at Manchester Airport with Winstanley, and that the pair 'had a working relationship' but 'didn't regard themselves as friends'.

While they were co-workers, Ms Wright reported Winstanley to her bosses for dating another colleague at the same Boots branch  a breach of company policy.

McDonald's worker Lesley Herbert, 21, glassed Sarah Wright moments after her former Boots colleague Jessica Winstanley, 20, threw her to the floor and broke her nose while kicking her

Winstanley was subsequently moved to another store, prosecutor Ellen Shaw told Manchester Crown Court.

However, Ms Wright later apologised and believed the matter had been resolved before she was attacked by the pair on a night out for Boots staff on July 13 of last year.

A number of staff and their friends attended the work do, including the victim, Winstanley and her friend Herbert  who had never worked for Boots and had not met the victim beforehand.

While at a Wetherspoons pubs in Manchester city centre, Herbert 'went out of her way to barge into (Ms Wright) and another member of her group', the court was told.

Herbert then began shouting and swearing at Ms Wright after they moved to another bar in town, which was not named in court.

Winstanley, who had kicked her shoes off earlier in the night and was barefoot, then grabbed hold of Ms Wright and dragged her to the floor before kicking her. It is believed the kick landed in her face, the court was told.

Herbert, who was wearing sandals, also aimed a kick at her while the victim was on the ground.

Ms Wright got to her feet and then learned the violent pair were merely being spoken to by bar staff, not removed from the venue.

The court was told that Ms Wright then threw a glass at the wall 'in frustration' at this.

Herbert then reacted by picking up a glass from a nearby ledge and throwing it directly at Ms Wright, who was standing just a few feet away.

It hit Ms Wright in the face, and she collapsed to the floor. At this point, Winstanley and Herbert collected their bags and left.

Herbert and Winstanley (pictured) both pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm at an earlier hearing, while Herbert also admitted unlawful wounding

As they exited, Herbert was heard saying: 'Jess didn't do anything, I am the reason her face looks like that'.

Ms Wright went to A&E and was found to have a broken nose as well as cuts on the bridge of her nose and below her eye, both of which needed stitching and which medics told her could leave permanent scarring.

The former Boots worker, who was by then a teacher, also suffered bruising and was unable to go back to work at the end of the term as a result.

Police subsequently arrested Winstanley and Herbert, who answered no comment to all questions in interview before pleading guilty at a hearing.

Thomas McKail, defending Herbert, said she had lost her job in the care industry as a result of her conviction and was now working for McDonald's.

'A glass was thrown in her general direction and she reacts in a completely disproportionate manner', he told the court.

'She knows the consequences of her actions because it almost happened to her moments before. She is genuinely sorry and remorseful for her actions.'

Gwen Henshaw, defending the incident was 'completely out of character' for Winstanley, now a trainee dental nurse.

'She is remorseful and thoroughly ashamed of her actions that night' she said.

Judge Michael Leeming said that as a teacher the victim's 'appearance is important both to reassure the children, but also their parents.'

'This is the sort of incident, an assault in a bar in the city centre, that the public are entirely sick and tired of' he said. 'It happens all too often when people have had too much to drink.'

He told Herbert: 'The risk of injury, glass in the eye, cuts, must have been obvious to you when you threw that glass' adding that 'had it been smashed in advance and thrown the sentence would be very different'.

However, he said the case was a 'tragedy' for both women whose character references said they were both 'generally loving, caring and placid people'.

'You have been convicted of serious offences and it is going to affect your careers, there's no doubt about it, regardless of the sentence I impose' he said, handing them suspended sentences.

Winstanley, of Newall Green, Wythenshawe, was sentenced to four months detention, suspended for two years and was also ordered to do 100 hours unpaid work and 10 rehabilitation activity requirement (RAR) days.

Herbert, of Bagueley, was sentenced to a year in prison, suspended for two years and was ordered to do 150 hours unpaid work and 20 RAR days.

Winstanley was also ordered to pay 250 and Herbert 750 in compensation to Ms Wright.
Vivace Microneedling From an industry perspective, this relationship is disruptive, with ABM aligning with a brand thats a longtime industry mainstay like SkinCeuticals. Weve forged our own path to bring the best skincare treatments, products and business practices to a wider audience.

Aesthetics Biomedical Inc., a leader in novel aesthetic products and devices, and SkinCeuticals, a leader in advanced skincare technology, announce the launch of the collaboration that combines Vivace Microneedle RF with a post-treatment protocol featuring SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic for enhanced patient experience with minimally-invasive skin rejuvenation treatments.

To give patients visibly brighter, more radiant skin, Aesthetics Biomedicals industry leading, FDA-cleared, radiofrequency microneedling technology, Vivace has partnered with the #1 professional skincare brand in the U.S., SkinCeuticals. A minimally-invasive treatment, Vivace stimulates the natural production of collagen and has been shown by physicians to be effective in alleviating facial wrinkles, fine lines, improving skin texture, tightening and toning the face and neck for an overall glow. Uniquely designed for an incomparable, comfortable patient experience, only Vivace boasts a precision robotic motor that brings maximum results with minimal discomfort compared to other devices.

Sheldon Larson, Chief Marketing Officer at Aesthetics Biomedical who spearheaded this partnership initiative states As two leading skincare powerhouses, partnering together allows us to really make an impact on overall skin health. Both physicians and patients will see the benefits it brings to their Vivace Experience by extending the post-treatment care with SkinCeuticals hero product, C E Ferulic. Larson continues. From an industry perspective, this relationship is disruptive, with ABM aligning with a brand thats a longtime industry mainstay like SkinCeuticals. Weve forged our own path to bring the best skincare treatments, products and business practices to a wider audience for the ultimate benefit of our physicians.

For one day following patients Vivace RF Microneedling treatment, the skincare protocol for patients is now complemented with the use of SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic, the iconic daytime Vitamin C serum, proven to deliver advanced environmental protection and visible anti-aging results. C E Ferulic works to further enhance the Vivace Experience, 24 hours post treatment and provides astonishing results after just one session. SkinCeuticals antioxidant formulations are the gold standard and results have shown a 44% improvement in skin radiance, 36% improvement in the appearance of wrinkles and 37% increase in skin firmness.

MaryAnn Guerra, CEO & President of Aesthetics Biomedical adds, Aesthetics Biomedical has always advocated for the best patient experience. That is why we created the Vivace Experience to ensure not only a great treatment but to follow-through with that positive experience post treatment. The right treatment combined with the right products to ensure the best outcomes. It doesnt get better than Vivace x SkinCeuticals.

On the partnership, SkinCeuticals General Manager, Christina Fair notes, SkinCeuticals is thrilled to collaborate with Aesthetics Biomedical to create this unique, innovative treatment that provides rejuvenation benefits and antioxidant protection. She continues, This collaboration aligns with our goals to provide optimal patient outcomes through the synergy of SkinCeuticals scientifically-backed skincare and professional treatments.

Vivace Experience featuring SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic can be found through skincare physicians nationwide; for locations and pricing visit VivaceExperience.com or SkinCeuticals.com. Follow along on social media or share your experience using #VivaCEFerulic and tagging @VivaceExperience & @SkinCeuticals.

ABOUT AESTHETICS BIOMEDICAL

Aesthetics Biomedical, Inc., headquartered in Phoenix, Ariz., is committed to the development and distribution of novel aesthetic devices, products, and services in the global market. Aesthetics Biomedicals innovation center is a leader in breakthrough technologies and combination therapies for its clients, physician network and the aesthetic arena, creating novel patient treatment experiences that benefit from ongoing research, approved clinical indications for use, as well as a personalized approach designed for consumer benefit. Visit AestheticsBiomedical.com or VivaceExperience.com.

CONTACTS:

Press Contact: Courtney Frappier: (214) 505-5173 / CFrappier@aestheticsbiomed.com

Marketing Contact: Sheldon Larson: (602) 682-6423 / Sheldon@aestheticsbiomed.com
ROME  Secretary of State Mike Pompeo recently published a sharp letter excoriating the Vaticans plans to renew an agreement with the Chinese government on Church operations in China. He promoted the article in a tweet, concluding, The Vatican endangers its moral authority, should it renew the deal.

An indignant Vatican took the article more as a calculated affront than a diplomatic gesture. The friction broke into the open on Wednesday as Mr. Pompeo arrived in Rome and met with prelates and others who are hostile to Pope Francis, while the Vatican denied him a meeting with the pontiff and rebuffed his efforts to derail the deal with China.

Pompeo asked to meet the pope, who turned him down because Francis had clearly said that he does not receive political figures ahead of the elections, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who, as secretary of state, is the Vaticans second-ranking official, told reporters.

But to some observers on both sides of the tensions between the Roman Catholic Church and the Trump administration, Mr. Pompeos visit is as much about the coming presidential election as about China policy. Mr. Pompeo dismissed that suggestion as absurd, but intended or not, his trip signals that President Trump is on the side of those conservative American Catholics who worry about the churchs direction under Francis and think he is soft on China.
BrewDog, the worlds largest craft brewer, is the first employer in the world to ensure that all employees are carbon negative, just like the business itself.

COLUMBUS, Ohio  BrewDog, the worlds largest craft brewer, is announcing today that it is the first employer in the world to ensure that all employees are carbon negative, just like the business itself. The move comes as the brewer announced its carbon negative status in August, making it the first carbon negative international beer business.

BrewDog has introduced a planet-saving employee perk that allows all staff members to calculate their personal carbon footprint using the mobile app, Pawprint. BrewDog will then remove twice as much carbon from the air each year as the team member is responsible for. It will be able to double offset employees carbon footprints immediately with the help of the current carbon removal projects its funding and eventually with the BrewDog Forest, a 2,050 acre site in Scotland where the brewer will plant trees as a means to remove carbon from the air. More information about the interim offsetting initiatives and the BrewDog Forest can be found in BrewDogs first sustainability report.

All employees will be able to start calculating their carbon footprints via the Pawprint app in the coming weeks. Employees will enter information about their lifestyle, including utilities, travel, food consumption and more, to calculate their carbon footprint. Once all employees submit their information, BrewDog will then calculate the total footprint of its 2,000-strong global crew and begin double offsetting it immediately by supporting the gold-standard carbon offset programs approved by its carbon consultant, Mike Berners-Lee.

BrewDog cofounder, James Watt commented:

Our entire business is carbon negative and now our amazing people are too. This ensures that as a business, and as individuals, we all have a positive impact on our planet.

BrewDogs final round of its record-breaking crowdfunding program, Equity for Punks Tomorrow, is now open to investors as it announced on September 10. Every single penny of the money raised through Equity for Punks Tomorrow will be committed to cutting-edge sustainability projects including solar power, wind power, electric vehicle fleets, and converting waste into energy. All of these projects will help BrewDog reduce its carbon emissions and be more sustainable as a business, as it sets out to fight climate change and have a positive impact on the planet. For more information and to invest in BrewDog USA, visit EquityforPunksUSA.com.

For more news and information on BrewDog head to @brewdogusa on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook.

 END 

About BrewDog:

Since 2007 BrewDog has been on a mission to make other people as passionate about great craft beer as we are. From the Headliner series, which includes bold, uncompromising pack leaders like the flagship Punk IPA, to the Amplified range (beer, but turned up to 11), BrewDog brews beer that blows peoples minds and has kick-started a revolution.

Co-founders James Watt and Martin Dickie shook up the business world in 2009 with the launch of pioneering crowdfunding initiative Equity for Punks, an initiative that has seen the company raise $97.5 million (75m) over seven rounds, with their latest round, Equity for Punks Tomorrow, open until June 2021.

The funds and the community of Equity Punk shareholders (145,000) has enabled the Scottish craft brewery to scale up without selling out. With over 102 bars across the globe, export into 60 countries, and a brewery in Ohio that launched in 2017, BrewDog continues to take the craft beer revolution stratospheric, whilst continuing to push the boundaries, invest in people, put the beer first, and champion other small breweries in its venues.

Media Contact:

For more information, please contact: fmbrewdogs@fahlgren.com
President Donald Trump and his campaign objected Thursday to the Commission on Presidential Debates making changes to the rules for his second and third face-offs against Democrat Joe Biden.

'Why would I allow the Debate Commission to change the rules for the second and third debates when I easily won last time?' Trump tweeted Thursday afternoon as he traveled to his Bedminster, New Jersey resort for campaign events.

That was echoed in a call with reporters with Campaign Manager Bill Stepien and senior adviser Jason Miller, who attacked the commission as a partisan entity, pointing out that even some of the Republicans on its board of directors had said negative things about Trump.

'Rather than a cross section of America, this group very much comes across as what you might see at an evening gala at the Metropolitan Club in D.C.,' Miller said. 'For the most part, these are permanent swamp monsters.'

The Trump campaign officials claimed only the Biden campaign had requested changes be made to the rules, including letting moderator Steve Scully turn off the candidates' microphones.

Biden's campaign didn't answer that claim head-on, though the Democrat said Thursday he was open to that change as long as 'we have the opportunity to respond to the questions from the people in the audience,' looking ahead to the second debate's town hall format.

The ex-veep answered 'no comment' when asked about Miller's 'swamp monsters' swipe.

Tuesday night's debate was marked by interruptions and name-calling, with the president blasting moderator Chris Wallace for - in his view - coddling Biden for trying to rein in the back-and-forth.

On Thursday, Wallace appeared on Fox News Channel, and called the debate a 'total mess' and 'disservice ... to the country,' adding that Trump 'bears the responsibility for what happened on Tuesday.'

'I think he would have been well advised to pull back and let Biden talk more because Biden's answers weren't always great,' Wallace said. 'In fact, I think if the president had stepped back and let Biden give his answers he could have been more effective in picking them apart.'

President Donald Trump tweeted Thursday, 'Why would I allow the Debate Commission to change the rules for the second and third Debates when I easily won last time?'

The Trump campaign firmly came out against any rule changes for the second and third debate, following up Trump's tweet with a press call where they suggested the Commission on Presidential Debates was biased in favor of Joe Biden

The next presidential debate may give moderator Steve Scully of C-SPAN the ability to turn off President Donald Trump's microphone

The Commission on Presidential Debates is weighing new rules for President Donald Trump and Democratic nominee Joe Biden - which neither campaign would be allowed to negotiate

The Trump campaign's Jason Miller tried to paint C-SPAN's Steve Scully as biased pointing out that Scully had shared a picture of himself with Democratic nominee Joe Biden when Biden had reporters to the vice president's residence in June of 2016

Steve Scully had also highlighted a March 2016 David Brooks column tweeting out the headling, 'No. Not Trump. Not ever.' Trump senior campaign adviser Jason Miller pointed to the tweet and wrote Thursday, 'He'll be fair at the debate, amirite?'

'THE FAIREST MAN IN D.C.' FACES BIGGEST NIGHT OF HIS CAREER Steve Scully might be little known to those who do not tune in to C-SPAN but to those who do he is known for his scrupulous evenhandedness. Scully, 60, is the network's senior executive producer and political editor, and for viewers, the host of Washington Journal, its morning call-in show. Although it does not attract mass ratings it is vital viewing for political insiders trying to take the temperature of the nation, as well as a place for political figures to appear if they want to try to set the D.C. agenda. Most of all it is TV's only national call-in show on politics. Callers are screened by ideology with separate numbers for Republicans, Democrats and independents, and often express robust and unexpected views. The Trump campaign's belief it could win in the mid-West was partly based on disaffected former Obama supporters calling in to Washington Journal. Scully is known for his calm approach, never expressing a personal view, and his ability to listen. Comedian John Oliver called him 'the most patient man in television.'

He has been C-Span political editor since 1990, having worked in local television. Scully's political views are unknown but he did however volunteer for the Jimmy Carter campaign in 1976, aged 16, and worked for Joe Biden, as a mail room intern in 1978 and Ted Kennedy as a media intern in 1979 - both before he graduated college. He has said he was brought up with a Republican father and Democratic mother and since becoming a journalist, has never been known to express a partisan view. A devout Catholic father of four with wife Katie, he is the 14th of 16 children from Erie, PA - his parents had five sets of twins - and is on the board of two charities for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, having lost a baby daughter in 1996. Advertisement

The two candidates will face each other next on October 15 in Miami for a town-hall style debate moderated by Scully of C-SPAN.

Later Thursday afternoon, Miller also tried to paint Scully as biased, highlighting a tweet where the C-SPAN host is posing for a picture with Biden, when the vice president invited White House reporters to his residence in 2016.

'Don't forget to change before the debate, fellas!' Miller said.

Scully had also tweeted 'No not Trump, not ever,' the headline of a column written by The New York Times' David Brooks in March 2016.

'I know Steve didnt mean this,' Miller wrote. 'He'll be fair at the debate, amirite?'

At the same time, Scully had tweeted video of GOP North Carolina House candidate Madison Cawthorn's address in August to the Republican National Convention.

The rules of engagement for Scully's debate will be different, the Commission on Presidential Debates announced Wednesday, in an attempt to curb the chaos from Tuesday night's debate, which was compared to a dumpster fire.

The two-week window gives the commission some breathing room to consider their options.

One getting serious consideration is giving the moderator the ability to mute the president, according to reports.

The Trump campaign confirmed this was discussed, along with having the candidates give opening and closing statements and cutting down on the time allotted for 'open discussion,' which sometimes devolved into name-calling on Tuesday night.

Whatever the new rules are the campaigns will have no say in them.

That has the Trump campaign pushing that the debate commission and the Biden campaign are working in lockstep.

But Trump campaign officials pushed back on the idea that their objections amounted to a boycotting threat.

'President Trump fully plans on participating in and winning both the second and third debates and the presidential contest here,' Miller said.

Both Biden and a spokesman for his campaign said the former vice president will also appear at the next two debates.

'We are running our campaign, not running the debates,' said Biden spokesman Andrew Bates. 'Since June, we have consistently said we would participate in all three debates, under rules that the CPD established.'

Bates also pointed out that it was the Trump campaign that had previously tried to change the rules.

'Only the Trump campaign has been erratic and chaotic in their approach to this, demanding control over the selection of moderators, changes in the dates of the debates, an ear canal inspection rule, and all sorts of other insanity,' Bates told DailyMail.com in an email.

'Perhaps if the President and his team spent as much time worrying about the country as they do about debate rules, he would not be trailing and would not have engaged in the desperate, out-of-control behavior - emblematic of his tenure - that he showed on Tuesday night,' Bates continued.

The campaigns will be informed of the new rules but they will not be subject to negotiation, a source told CBS News.

It appears the initial rules will remain in place for the vice presidential debate in Salt Lake City on Tuesday between Mike Pence and Kamala Harris.

Wallace, the Fox News host who moderated the first debate, said he feared not even muting Trump's microphone would have stopped the president from talking.

'As a practical matter, even if the president's microphone had been shut, he still could have continued to interrupt, and it might well have been picked up on Biden's microphone, and it still would have disrupted the proceedings in the hall,' he told The New York Times.

And he worried about how supporters of the candidates would react if a moderator cut their microphone.

'People have to remember, and too many people forget, both of these candidates have the support of tens of millions of Americans,' he said.

Scully, in an interview with Erie News Now conducted just before the revelation of a possible rule change had said that he expected the town hall format to be like his Washington Journal show, which combines interviews and phone-in segments - and joked about the lack of a mute button.

'The only difference is that I have the ability to hit the mute button, so I'm able to do that on the Washington Journal, not so much in a debate,' he said.

But Scully being equipped with a mute button poses a number of technical challenges from a television production standpoint.

Another option under consideration is to penalize an interrupting candidate by forcing them to yield more time back to the opponent.

The next debate is the vice presidential one on October 7 in Salt Lake City.

The next presidential one in Miami will feature undecided voters asking questions of the candidates. There will be only 15-20 people in the hall asking questions due to coronavirus restrictions.

The third and final debate will be in Nashville on October 22 and moderated by Kristen Welker of NBC News. It will have the same format as Tuesday night's debate.

Wallace's advice to Scully and Welker: 'If either man goes down this road, I hope you'll be quicker to realize what's going on than I was. I didn't have that advance warning.'

The Commission on Presidential Debates said Wednesday it was 'clear that additional structure should be added to the format of the remaining debates to ensure a more orderly discussion of the issues.'

Currently, each candidate is given the opportunity to speak for two minutes - supposedly uninterrupted - in response to a moderator's question, before being allowed to respond to one another.

Trump routinely flouted those rules on Tuesday, despite agreeing abide by them before the showdown commenced.

The changes will be announced 'shortly,' the commission said, declining to comment further.

In his first remarks after the crazy evening, Biden described Trump as a 'national embarrassment' and said he hopes the format is changed to the president's mic can be turned off when needed.

Fox News' Chris Wallace, who moderated the first debate, said he feared even turning off President Donald Trump's microphone would stop him from talking

'I can understand it. I kind of thought at one point, and maybe I shouldn't say this, but the president of the United States conducting himself the way he did, I think it was just a national embarrassment,' Biden said Wednesday at a stop on his train tour of Ohio and Pennsylvania.

Biden confirmed he will participate in the following two debates and floated the idea of using technology to rein in Trump.

'I just hope there's a way in which the debate commission can control the ability of us to answer the question without interruption,' he said, suggesting his microphone be muted if the president interrupts him.

President Trump complained about Wallace not allowing him to land a glove on Biden during Tuesday's debate.

'I said "Sleepy Joe, name one law enforcement group that supports [you]" and then Chris Wallace says, "Don't do that." Can you believe? This guy,' Trump said.

The president also blamed Wallace for not being able to fully deploy an attack Biden's only living son, Hunter, who Trump smacked for his foreign business dealings.

'Protected by Chris,' Trump sniped. '"We don't want to discuss that,"' he said, mimicking the moderator. 'Oh really Chris? It's so sad.'

The president lumped Wallace in with the rest of the mainstream media during his Wednesday remarks.

'The liberal media is upset that I took the fight to Biden and exposed his dangerous agenda,' Trump said.

The president, meanwhile, initially indicated he would be at the next presidential debate.

'I would like to,' he told reporters at the White House Wednesday before he left for Minnesota. 'We won the debate by almost every poll that I saw.'

He added of Biden: 'I don't mind debating him. I hear that he wants to get out of the debates. I don't know. That's up to him.'

Trump made the same claim at his Wednesday night rally in Duluth, Minnesota.

'Now I understand he's cancelling the debates,' Trump said. 'I don't think that's going to be a good look for him.'

The first presidential debate barely kicked off Tuesday evening before it devolved into a chaotic mess as the two candidates began name calling, fighting and cross-talking  ignoring pleas from Wallace to stand down.

'Would you shut up, man?,' a visibly exasperated Biden said about 20 minutes into the debate after Trump interrupted him.

Trump relentlessly went after Biden  frequently cutting him off mid-sentence.

Biden, determined not to get out-muscled and mindful of Trump's slashing 2016 attacks on Hillary Clinton, came armed with his own insults  branding Trump a 'liar' and a 'clown' and also 'a racist'  but sometimes merely sat back and smiled amid Trump's own charges.

During one exchange, Biden told the president to 'shut up.' Later he said 'you're the worst president that America has ever had.'

Trump, for his part, brought up Biden's son Hunter's past cocaine use and inaccurately accused him of getting a dishonorable discharge from the Navy. He called his rival a 'socialist,' and repeatedly tried to tar him with 'radical' elements like Antifa.

Wallace repeatedly lectured Trump, telling him 'I'm the moderator of this debate' at one point. His efforts were mostly fruitless.

Afterward, poll showed that Americans weren't impressed by Trump's viciousness.

In Ipsos polling down with FiveThirtyEight.com, for example, only about one-third of those surveyed called Trump's performance 'somewhat good' or 'very good,' while 50 per cent said it was 'very poor.'

On the other hand, 60 per cent of those same respondents said Biden performed well.
Almost three months after seizure of 30 kg gold from a diplomatic consignment the Customs department on Thursday detained a Left Democratic Front (LDF) leader from Kozhikode in north Kerala in connection with the case.

Karat Faisal, an LDF municipal body councillor, is suspected to be the kingpin in the case and invested heavily in the racket and played a major role in distributing smuggled gold to jewellers, said a Customs officer who did not wish to be named.

Customs officials raided his house in Koduvally in the early hours of Thursday and later took him to Kochi. Officials said they came to know about his role after sustained interrogation of some of those arrested in the gold smuggling case. He will be produced in a court later.

This is not Faisals first brush with the law. In 2013 the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence had arrested him in connection with a smuggling incident in Kozhikode airport but he was let off after coughing up a hefty fine. He was reported to be very close to two LDF independent legislators, Karat Razak and PTA Raheem.

The smuggling case came to light after 30 kg gold was seized from a consignment that came in the name of an employee of the United Arab Emirates consulate in Thiruvananthapuram on July 5. Later that month, the case was handed over to the National Investigation Agency. The NIA later said proceeds of smuggling could have been used to fund terror networks in the country.

In a related development, one of the prime accused in the gold smuggling case Sandeep Nair has moved an application in the court to make a confession under the Section 164 A of the Indian Penal Code. The NIA did not oppose his plea in the court. There are reports the NIA will make him an approver to reach many big fish after his statements virtually led to Karat Faisal.
The Leave.eu campaign has apologised to a Labour MP and paid damages for libel after falsely branding her a grooming gangs apologist.

Bradford West MP Naz Shah welcomed the apology for the horrendous allegation and said she had suffered abuse and death threats because of the slur.

The false allegation was published in social media posts by Leave.EU following Jeremy Corbyns resignation as Labour leader last December, offering fictional odds on his potential successor.

In a statement issued today, the pro-Brexit group admitted its claim was ill-judged and untrue.

While the publication had been intended to be satirical, we appreciate that it was ill-judged and untrue, said the group.

We accept that Ms Shah is not an apologist for grooming gangs but is a vociferous campaigner for victims of grooming gangs.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 18 January 2022 Surfers enter the sea as the sun rises over Tynemouth on the North East coast PA UK news in pictures 17 January 2022 Bonhams Danny McIlwraith holds a Nigerian polycrome carved wood mask during a photocall for the sale of the Jim Lennon Collection at Bonhams in Edinburgh PA UK news in pictures 16 January 2022 The moon rises above the Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth, Hampshire PA UK news in pictures 15 January 2022 Demonstrators outside Downing Street during a Kill The Bill protest against The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill in London PA UK news in pictures 14 January 2022 Ecologist Emma Smart (left) and retired GP Dr Diana Warner outside HMP Bronzefield, in Surrey, following their release from the prison where Emma undertook a 26-day hunger strike during her incarceration. Ms Smart was sentenced in November, along with other members of Insulate Britain, to serve four months for breaking a High Court injunction by taking part in a blockade at junction 25 of the M25 motorway during the morning rush hour on 8 October last year PA UK news in pictures 13 January 2022 A TV presenter holds a copy of a newspaper outside 10 Downing Streetafter the Prime Minister apologised for attending a gathering of colleagues in the Number Ten garden in May 2020, while the UK was in strict lockdown due to the Coronavirus pandemic Getty UK news in pictures 12 January 2022 Fitness guru Derrick Evans after receiving an MBE during an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 11 January 2022 A couple walk underneath an umbrella during wet weather on Westminster Bridge in central London PA UK news in pictures 10 January 2022 A jogger passes the Covid Memorial Wall in London AP UK news in pictures 9 January 2021 The sun rises over horses at Seaton Sluice in Northumberland PA UK news in pictures 8 January 2022 Riders compete during the Veterans Men's race at the UK Cyclo-Cross National Championships 2022 in Ardingly, south of London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 7 January 2022 A dog looks out of a car window at the wintry conditions in Killeshin, Co. 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We apologise for the distress caused by the post and have paid Ms Shah damages for libel.

In response, Ms Shah said: The allegation of me being a grooming apologist has been horrendous.

The fact theyve accepted that Im a vociferous campaigner against grooming is important to me.

This is the kind of stuff thats used against people in public life and other MPs.

Its just not fair. Its just not right for it to happen.

She added: Im one of the most abused MPs on Twitter because of this allegation. Its horrible, its really horrible.

Ms Shah said the reaction to the post had affected her family, with her children asking: Mum, why do you get so much hate, why do people hate you so much?

She said: It literally has been threats to my life at times.

Ms Shah said the post hurt her because she had never shied away from the issue of grooming gangs and was campaigning against perpetrators long before she was elected as an MP in 2015.

She said: Islamic communities are absolutely appalled by it . People I talk to are appalled by it.

Im on record talking about, Ive talked about it on Asian media channels and to the community. Its not something Ive shied away from at all and I dont intend to in the future.

Ms Shah said she was unable to discuss the size of the settlement, saying: I welcome the apology and just want to draw a line under it and get on.

She added: Im not going to let a tweet that was up there for eight minutes, which was removed, define my life and my politics."

Ms Shah was reported to have been seeking damages of up to 50,000 and costs in a legal action against Leave.eu, the pro-Brexit campaign founded by businessmen Arron Banks and Richard Tice.

The post was taken down shortly after its publication, but it understood to have already been shared thousands of times.
The reliance on technology leads to a lot of students getting kicked out of their classes and losing material that they need to learn, Mulligan said. Struggling students arent able to get the help that they once were able to. It can be really difficult to stay motivated. And perhaps the worst of all, you cant see your friends and school, and that has made it really bad.
(Natural News) A riot in the neighborhood of Kenton in northern Portland on Monday, Sept. 28, has led to one officer being sent to the hospital, several others being doused in chemicals and 24 Antifa agitators being arrested by the Portland Police Bureau (PPB). The rioters organized the demonstration to call for the abolition of prisons and the police.

The rioters started forming up and organizing at around 8:45 p.m. in Kenton Park. They planned to march out at 9:15 p.m. to find police officers to provoke. However, their plans were thwarted when police observers called in backup after seeing that the group was planning an unpermitted march.

They were also concerned with the fact that many in the mob were using shields. The PPB believes that they were using shields in order to protect those intent on committing crimes such as throwing objects at police.

Rioters disobey police officers and attack them with rocks, water bottles and chemicals

Because of the perceived threat to Portland residents and their property, PPB officers moved in on the crowd before they could fully assemble in order to confiscate their shields. While they were in the process of doing this, many of the rioters interfered. Some threw objects at the officers such as water bottles, and at least 2 people were arrested during this initial altercation.

After the incident, police told the demonstrators that they could remain in the park and protest as much as they wanted. However, they did not have a permit to march and go wherever they wanted. If they went onto the street, they would be subject to arrest, citation or being dispersed with the help of crowd control munitions like pepper spray and impact weapons.

The PPB officers disengaged from the park, despite the fact that the rioters continued to hurl objects at them. The mob, in an act of defiance, moved along the sidewalks (which was technically legal) in order to reach the office building of the Portland Police Association, the main police union that represents rank-and-file PPB officers.

The bureau stated that the union building has been the focus of many violent and destructive demonstrations.

Individuals operating within large scale demonstrations have burglarized the building, set arson fires, cut power to the building, broke windows and caused other destruction, said the PPB in their statement. Several of those incidents devolved into riots where officers were forced to deploy tear gas and other munitions to move the violent and destructive crowd away.

As the rioters approached, the officers told the mob that the sidewalk in front of the union building was closed. Several demonstrators moved into the street, which was still off-limits for them. Fortunately, the PPB had surrounded the union building to prevent any of the rioters from attacking it.

The police moved in to arrest the demonstrators that were in the streets. The rioters responded violently. They tried intervening in the arrests by attacking the officers. Many officers had rocks and water bottles thrown at them. One rioter punched a police sergeant in the face, and five other police officers were doused in some kind of harmful chemical. Videos from the altercation also showed one rioter launching a firework that hit an officer in the head.

The police sergeant had to be sent to the hospital. No word has been released concerning the injuries sustained by the officers that were sprayed with chemicals.

Several more arrests were made during this scuffle. Officers declared an unlawful assembly minutes later and ordered the rioters to leave. Few complied until the PPB began marching towards the crowd in a police line.

By around 1:30 a.m., the riot was over, and 24 people were arrested. A majority of the arrested rioters were charged with interfering with a peace officer and disorderly conduct. One individual was charged with harassment, and another with two counts of escape in the third degree. Two individuals were criminally cited with interfering with a police officer, and one 17-year-old girl was referred to a juvenile court with charges of interfering with a peace officer and disorderly conduct in the second degree.

Several of the people that were arrested were posing as press officers. They wore heavy body armor with rifle plating and possessed weapons such as pepper spray and knives while carrying forged press passes.

During the night, Portland police also arrested an Antifa rioter posing as an emergency driver. The man, Jason Dye, 40, was stopped in his silver sedan  which was marked on the side with a red cross to signal that the vehicle can be used as medical transport  because the police saw that he was driving dangerously. Inside the car, officers found a loaded handgun. Dye was cited for failing to properly use a safety belt, driving uninsured and failing to use a turn signal.

Portland police believe violence will last until after the inauguration

After the rioters dispersed, several residents observing the commotion asked nearby police officers how they think the engineered civil unrest will end. The officers responded by saying that Portlands residents need to start working together with emergency officers and public officials. (Related: Portland officials seem to actually want their city to burn down.)

If [the rioters] were not out here, we wouldnt be out here, said one of the officers. If people liked our Trump government a lot more, we probably wouldnt have this issue in the first place. But theres a lot of contention with the federal government.

We know its going to run all the way until at least the election, said another officer. This could run all the way to the inauguration.

The riot on Monday marked four months of nearly nonstop demonstrations in Portland against supposed police violence and systemic and institutional racism.

Learn more about the latest demonstrations and criminal actions conducted in Portland by Antifa and Black Lives matter agitators by reading the articles at Rioting.news.

Sources include:

TheEpochTimes.com

FoxNews.com

KGW.com

KATU.com

OregonLive.com
She split from her third fiance Lucas Zwirner last month following a nearly two-year romance.

And Sienna Miller appeared to put her break-up behind her as she headed out for lunch with her friends at Bar Pitti in New York City on Wednesday afternoon.

The actress, 38, who had been living with art gallery heir Lucas, 29, nailed casual chic in a grey jumper and classic denim jeans.

In good company: Sienna Miller appeared to put her break-up from Lucas Zwirner behind her as she headed out for lunch with her friends at Bar Pitti in New York City on Wednesday

Mixing glamour with comfort, the Mississippi Grind star styled a pair of white trainers with a sophisticated Gucci handbag.

The mother-of-one ensured she kept safe during the coronavirus pandemic as she sported a pink protective face mask, complete with floral printing throughout.

Square-framed shades, minimal make-up and a pulled back 'do rounded off Sienna's appearance.

Low-key: The actress, 38, who had been living with art gallery heir Lucas, 29, nailed casual chic in a grey jumper and classic denim jeans

All in the details: Mixing glamour with comfort, the Mississippi Grind star styled a pair of white trainers with a sophisticated Gucci handbag

Less is more: Square-framed shades, minimal make-up and a pulled back 'do rounded off Sienna's appearance

The blonde and her ex Lucas, the son of art dealer David Zwirner, got engaged back in January after a year of dating, but Page Six recently revealed they ended their relationship.

The report claims that it was the thespian who broke it off with the editor, though no reason for the separation was given.

Representatives for both Miller and Zwirner did not respond to requests for comment from MailOnline at the time.

Sienna was previously engaged to actors Jude Law, 47, in 2004 and Tom Sturridge, 34, the father of her daughter Marlowe, eight, in 2012.

End of the road: The Girl star split from her third fiance last month following a nearly two-year romance (pictured in May)

In a 2017 interview with Harper's Bazaar, Sienna spoke about maintaining a friendship with her ex, saying of Tom, who is now reportedly dating actress Maya Hawke: 'We still love each other.'

'I think in a break-up somebody has to be a little bit cruel in order for it to be traditional, but it's not been acrimonious in a way where you would choose to not be around that person.'

'We don't live together, as has been reported recently, but we do half the time,' she added. 'Everybody will stay over or we'll all go on holiday and that's because we genuinely want to be around each other.'

'It's great for our daughter that she has two parents who love each other and are friends. He's definitely my best friend in the entire world.'

Ex: The blonde dated actor Tom Sturridge from 2011 until 2015, becoming engaged in 2012 - the pair share eight-year-old daughter Marlowe Ottoline Layng (pictured together in 2013)

Famous ex: The thespian was also engaged to her Alfie co-star Jude Law, who were in an on and off relationship until they split for good in 2011 (pictured in 2004)

The TV star has thrown herself into work as she and Michelle Dockery lead the cast of the new Netflix series Anatomy Of A Scandal.

According to Deadline, they will be joined by Rupert Friend on the series which is based on the bestselling novel of the same name by Sarah Vaughan.

The 2017 book focuses on high-profile Westminster politician James Whitehouse (Rupert) whose marriage begins to unravel when he is accused of rape.

His wife Sophie (Sienna) is convinced that he is innocent and will do whatever it takes to protect her family in the wake of the scandal.

Meanwhile, criminal barrister Kate (Michelle) is equally convinced that James is guilty and is determined to see he pays for his crimes.

The show is from Big Little Lies creator David E. Kelley and former House of Cards showrunner Melissa James Gibson.
Students of American history who watched the Trump-Biden "debate" might well have felt a sense of deja vu.

America has been there, done that.

On May 22, 1856, Rep. Preston Brooks of South Carolina stormed into the old Senate chambers where Senator Charles Sumner of Massachusetts was fiddling around with copies of his famous anti-slavery speech, "Crime against Kansas." Brooks took out a metal, tipped cane and summarily beat the unsuspecting Senator Sumner unconscious.

Brooks's attack trenchantly signified that the long debate about slavery was pretty much over. It was a sign that the nation's great deliberative body was beyond deliberation when it came to slavery. Though the issue remained front and center for more years, the endless discussions over slavery and political solutions like the Compromise of 1850 carefully crafted by Henry Clay became almost pointless. Pro- and anti-slavery factions and pro- and anti-Union states were left to duel it out in the Civil War. Absolutely opposed viewpoints over two main issues meant that the entire nation was at loggerheads.

America once again finds itself divided into two irreconcilable camps over two irreconcilable issues: the continuance of a constitutionally based Republic and the human rights issue of abortion. The shouting match termed a "debate" revealed the irreconcilable divide as surely as the riots in our streets have demonstrated the end of dialogue between polar opposites concerning governance and law.

Will the constitutional Republic stand, or will it be fundamentally transformed into a socialist state or states? Will the definition of a human being include the unborn, or will human beings, as in the Dred Scott case, continue to be only partly human as the law defines humanity and as regulations vary from state to state?

Because of diametrically opposed worldviews  the one with remnants of the Judeo-Christian ethic and the other a radically secular leftism  America's fractured political parties have moved beyond debate, beyond reason to emotion, beyond formerly core understandings about human life and governance.

Abraham Lincoln wrote about the great divide of his times in his famous "A House Divided" speech, given in 1858.

Addressing the Convention, he commented on the unceasing agitation accompanying the issue of slavery, saying the unrest would not cease until the matter was resolved one way or another: "it will not cease, until a crisis shall have been reached, and passed. A house divided against itself cannot stand."

I believe this government cannot endure, permanently half slave and half free. I do not expect the Union to be dissolved  I do not expect the house to fall  but I do expect it will cease to be divided. It will become all one thing or all the other.

Observers of the debate Tuesday could see the differences between Trump and Biden clearly. They could see two representatives with differing foundational beliefs about the nation and human rights. Their viewpoints were so clearly opposite there is no longer an excuse to pretend their beliefs can be debated, much less subjected to compromise.

In short, the shouting duel that commenced and continued throughout the evening revealed the great and irreconcilable divide.

The only thing missing was the cane.

Fay Voshell may be reached at fvoshell@yahoo.com.
Chennai, Oct 1 : The Chennai Financial Markets and Accountability (CFMA), an investor group, on Thursday accused the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI), a nodal association of mutual funds across India, of protecting Franklin Templeton Mutual Fund (FTMF) and its senior management against an FIR registered with the Economic Offences Wing of Chennai Police.

The CFMA alleged that the AMFI, the body claims to protect and promote the interests of mutual funds and their unitholders, has been a mute spectator ever since the FTMF scam ballooned to a whopping Rs 28,000 crore broke in April this year, and has now suddenly rushed to defend the indefensible fund house by calling an FIR registered against it as "dangerous and undesirable precedent." The AMFI has urged market regulator SEBI to intervene in the matter since it has "vast jurisdiction containing administrative, civil and penal domains" and prevent the case from "getting translated into a criminal investigation." Notably, it further requested the SEBI to exercise its statutory powers to shield one of its members - FTMF - and to insulate the MF industry from any undesirable and unwarranted precedent.

By covering up the misdeeds of FTMF's and not saying even a word in favour of the unitholders, the CFMA said, the AMFI has failed to address the grievances of investors aggrieved by the freezing of six of the debt funds of FTMF.

According to the CFMA, the AMFI is undermining a lawfully registered FIR against FTMF when it is not even privy to either the Forensic audit report or the internal management of FTMF unless its President Sanjay Sapre, who is on the Board of Association of National Exchanges of Members of India, has briefed the AMFI with sketchy details.

It noted that the AMFI, which is acting against the interests of FTFM unitholders, wants SEBI being the market regulator to govern and execute all actions, including criminal cases, whereas it is well known that such powers rest with the police to take cognizance of, and protect the rights of citizens who complain of financial loss by way of fraud and criminal breach of trust.

The CFMA alleged that the AMFI is deliberately feigning ignorance about the fact that banks, which are regulated by the RBI, get prosecuted by law enforcement agencies like the EOW or CBI in case of criminal cases involving the loss to depositors, as in the case of Yes Bank, DFHI, PMC Bank in recent times and also in UTI Mutual Fund some years back.

The investor group pointed out that the AMFI is turning a blind eye to the fact that the FIR was registered in full fairness and transparency. The matter was discussed in the Karnataka High Court and the EOW, Chennai, was given enough time to investigate the matter following which it found merit in registering the FIR. By objecting to the FIR, FTMF is casting aspersions on the views of the Karnataka High Court and the authority of the EOW as well.

Interestingly, it highlighted, the AMFI has given clean chit to FTFM without even waiting for forensic report, police investigation and the Karnataka High Court, the way the then Board of ICICI Bank gave clean chit to its erstwhile MD and CEO Chanda Kochhar.

The CFMA expressed its concern over the AMFI's complete lack of empathy towards three lakh investors whose over Rs 28,000 crore is stuck amidst fears of a head-cut of 80 per cent which means a loss of Rs 20,000 crore. In doing so, the AMFI is going against its very core objective of being a self-regulatory organisation, it said adding that the performance of bodies like the AMFI itself needs closer examination to stop the recurrence of risks like FTMF.

With so much power to protect the interests of the investors, it pointed out, the SEBI and the AMFI are unfortunately seen protecting mutual funds, their employees, their Board of asset management companies and trustees instead of the unitholders. The CFMA suggested that the AMFI should not obstruct the process of law in a sub-judice matter and also not use the SEBI to influence the judiciary.

Meanwhile, the CFMA is contemplating filing a class-action suit against the global fund house for recovery of money and to claim damages, and has also urged all aggrieved investors to come together for filing the class-action suit.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
US Democrats presidential candidate Joe Biden broke fundraising records coming out of Tuesdays acrimonious debate with Donald Trump.

In a conference call with reporters after the debate, Bidens communications director and deputy campaign manager, Kate Bedingfield, announced that the campaign raised $3.8m between 10pm and 11pm through ActBlue, the Democratic grassroots fundraising site.

Tonight we broke the single-hour record for a campaign ever on ActBlue, Bedingfield said.

And we broke our own hour record and raised $3.8m between 10 oclock and 11 oclock.

That fundraising infusion suggested that the total sum the campaign raised from the debate eclipsed the entire hauls some statewide or national campaigns have enjoyed, The Guardian reported.

The $3.8m was one plainly positive note for the Biden campaign following a debate that both Democrats and Republicans cast as a mess. After the debate in Cleveland, even usually reserved TV anchors could not help but denounce it as the worst debate they had ever seen  a shitshow, as CNN put it.

Speaking to reporters during a campaign stop in Ohio, Biden condemned Trumps debate performance, saying he understood why some Americans would feel disgusted with politics.

The president of the United States conducting himself the way he did, I think it was just a national embarrassment, Biden said.

Follow Us on Facebook  @LadunLiadi; Instagram  @LadunLiadi; Twitter  @LadunLiadi; Youtube  @LadunLiadiTV for updates
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  A Richmond Valley man busted on gun and drug charges in a raid of his home two years ago has some new living arrangements.

Thomas Curry, 32, has been sentenced to four years behind bars stemming from his Nov. 29, 2018 arrest.

Curry was charged after cops executed a search warrant at his Murray Street residence.

Police found three loaded handguns in a book bag in the living room area, including a .38-caliber Smith & Wesson, a .357 Ruger and a .45-caliber semiautomatic Springfield Armory, said a criminal complaint.

Officers discovered ammunition for the Ruger on a night table in Currys bedroom, according the complaint.

Cops also confiscated an imitation gun and cash, said the complaint.

In addition, officers seized drugs, including heroin, the opioid addiction-treatment drug buprenorphine, and the anxiety medication alprazolam from various parts of the house, said the criminal complaint.

Marijuana also allegedly was found in Currys bedroom.

The 123rd Precinct posted on its Twitter feed photos of contraband police said they confiscated during the raid.

Curry, and Joseph Ruggerio, a co-defendant, were charged with various counts of criminal weapon possession, criminal firearm possession and criminal drug possession.

In January, Ruggerio pleaded guilty in state Supreme Court, St. George, to seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, a misdemeanor, to resolve his case.

He admitted to possessing buprenorphine.

In exchange, he was later sentenced to a conditional discharge but had to forfeit $6,684 in assets which cops had discovered.

Ruggerios sentence was predicated on Currys plea.

Curry pleaded guilty then to attempted second-degree criminal weapon possession to satisfy all charges against him.

He admitted to attempting to possess the .357 Ruger.

Besides prison, Curry was sentenced Wednesday in state Supreme Court, St. George, to five years' post-release supervision.

In addition, he must forfeit assets of $118.

Curry has two prior convictions, according to statements previously made in court.

He was convicted of grand larceny in Westchester County and sentenced in February 2017 to five years' probation.

Later, in November 2017, he was convicted of a misdemeanor drug charge and sentenced to a conditional discharge.

Attorney Leo V. Duval represented Curry.

Assistant District Attorney Kate Malloy prosecuted the case.
Donald Trump loves to fight. On Tuesday night, in his first 2020 debate, he constantly attacked Joe Biden. But Trump also attacked governors, reporters, previous political opponents, and his own officials. Hes headed for defeat in part because he cant stop making enemies and alienating voters. Here are some of the dumb fights he picked on Tuesday night.

1. Impeachment. Halfway through the debate, moderator Chris Wallace asked, Why should voters elect you president over your opponent? This was Trumps opportunity to brag about his achievements. Instead, he began the second sentence of his answer by fuming, And thats despite the impeachment hoax. Up to that point, no one in the debate had mentioned Trumps impeachment. By bringing it up, he reminded viewers of this embarrassment.

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2. Hillary. After raging at his impeachment, Trumps next words were: And you saw what happened today with Hillary Clinton, where it was a whole big con job. Later, when Wallace asked about possible voter fraud or voter suppression in 2020, the president again denounced Crooked Hillary Clinton. Trump seems to have forgotten that hes no longer running against Clinton. In fact, he desperately needs to win over some of the people who voted for her. By lambasting her, he pointlessly antagonizes those voters.

3. Obama. Democrats came after me trying to do a coup, Trump ranted. Weve caught them all. Weve got it all on tape. He accused his predecessor, falsely, of masterminding surveillance of Trumps campaign in the Russia investigation. President Obama was sitting in the office, said Trump. He knew about it, too. This smear makes no sense. To begin with, Barack Obama, like Clinton, isnt on the ballot this year. Second, Trump owes his Electoral College victory in 2016 to people who voted for him after having supported Obama in 2008 and 2012. By slandering Obama, he risks losing them. Third, Trump wasnt sniping at Obama in the name of some policy voters might care about. He was doing it to promote a conspiracy theory about himself.

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4. Pocahontas. If Pocahontas would have left two days early, you would have lost every primary, Trump told Biden. He was referring to Sen. Elizabeth Warrenone of Bidens rivals in the Democratic primarieswho had erroneously claimed Native American ancestry. But Warren also isnt on the ballot. And voters tuning in to this debate with open mindsthose who, until now, had paid little attention to the campaignprobably had no clue what Trump was talking about. It sounded like an ethnic slur out of nowhere.

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5. Governors. Trump thinks some Democratic governors, in the name of COVID prevention, have restricted schools and businesses more than is necessary. Many people agree with him. But instead of focusing on that policy dispute, Trump impugns the governors motives. He accuses them of deliberately strangling their state economies in order to cost him the election. They think theyre hurting us by keeping them closed, he said. By twisting the dispute into a self-absorbed conspiracy theory, Trump turns a potentially winning argument into a loser.

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6. The media. Early in the debate, Wallace said Trump had never come up with a comprehensive plan to replace Obamacare and had signed a symbolic executive order to protect people with preexisting conditions five days before this debate. He asked the president, What is the Trump health care plan? Trump could have responded by outlining a plan. Instead, he went after Wallace. First of all, I guess Im debating you, not him, Trump snapped. But thats OK. Im not surprised. Rather than reassure voters about a life-and-death concern, he pursued his personal grievance against the fake news.

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7. Vaccines. Wallace noted that on the question of when vaccines would be available, Trump had contradicted or been at odds with some of your governments own top scientists. He mentioned Moncef Slaoui, the director of Trumps vaccine development program, and Robert Redfield, the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The smart political response would have been to assure viewers that the president and his scientists agreed. Trump did the opposite. In fact, he picked not one fight, but two. I disagree with both of them, he said.

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8. Masks. Later, Wallace asked Trump, Are you questioning the efficacy of masks? That would be a foolish position to take63 percent of voters say they always wear masks when they go out near other peoplebut Trump took it. I dont wear a mask like him, Trump sneered at Biden. Every time you see him, hes got a mask. When Biden pointed out that Redfield and other health officials had endorsed the use of masks, Trump escalated the fight. He accused Anthony Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, of having said that masks are not good. The accusation was false and foolish. It pitted Trump not just against Biden, but against the electorate and all the administrations health officials.

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9. The FBI. Wallace challenged Trump to condemn white supremacists involved in violence over race and policing. Trump hedged, advising racist gangs to stand back and stand by. But seconds later, Trump quarreled with his handpicked FBI director, Christopher Wray, over whether antifa was an organization or just an ideology. Hes wrong, said Trump. This bizarre sequence signaled that the president was more willing to confront the FBI than to confront racists.

10. Stupidity. Even when Trump targeted Biden, he often did it in a self-destructive way. First he called Biden a bad studentDont ever use the word smart with me, Trump seethedand falsely accused Biden of claiming to have attended Delaware State University. Trump was wrong: Biden never claimed to have been a student at the historically Black university. But by reminding viewers that Biden went to a state school (the University of Delaware), Trump played into Bidens anti-elitist message. Later, when Trump was asked about having paid almost no income taxes, he scoffed that everyone exploits tax loopholes, such as privileges for depreciation, unless theyre stupid. That remark reinforced Bidens argument that Trump despises ordinary people who follow ordinary rules.

Tuesdays debate didnt end the election. Trump could gain ground in the next five weeks, and hell get two more chances to make a better impression. But a candidate who couldnt restrain himself in the first debate probably wont do it in the second or third, either. He is who he is.
Irelands spirits producers have today said that the Covid-19 crisis has significantly impacted the sector, hitting production, exports, and sales.

Spirits producers have been significantly impacted by the closure of the hospitality sector, saying that these venues should be allowed to reopen or stay open in a controlled, safe and sustainable manner where possible.

Drinks Ireland|Spirits, the Ibec trade association that represents the spirits sector publishes its Irish Spirits Markets Report 2019 today, indicating that in the context of current challenges, 2019 will be seen as a benchmark year for the industry as it seeks to recover from the Covid-19 crisis in the years to come.

Commenting on the report, Chair of Drinks Ireland|Spirits Pat Rigney, said: "While the sector remains vibrant and innovative, it has been severely impacted by Covid-19. For example, the hospitality sector is vital for consumers to explore products from new and emerging Irish spirits producers. This is on top of other challenges associated with Brexit and the EU and US trade disputes."

The report shows that domestic sales and exports were up in 2019 and that the value of spirits exports from the island of Ireland continued to increase, up by nearly 16% to 1.17 billion.

Global Irish whiskey sales grew by 10.9% last year, from 10.58 million to 11.93 million nine-litre cases. Irish Cream liqueur sales increased by 3.9%, from 8.2 million to 8.52 million nine-litre cases.

Domestic sales grew by 0.7% from 2.4 million to 2.42 million nine-litre cases. This comes at a time when overall alcohol consumption in Ireland continues to decline. This growth, while slower than that in 2018 illustrates the continued popularity of high-quality spirits products, created by a dynamic and innovative Irish industry.

While growth of Irish whiskey and gin slowed in 2019 compared to 2018, both were still significant, with sales up by 1.5% and 4.6% respectively. Vodka sales grew by 0.6%.

According to Drinks Ireland|Spirits, a strong domestic Irish hospitality sector will be vital in allowing the sector to return, in the coming years, to the level of growth seen in 2019, saying that a safe, sustainable reopening is important.

In addition to Covid-19, the report points to challenges facing the sector as a result of the ongoing trade disputes between the US and the European Union, which resulted in tariffs of 25% being placed on Irish cream liqueur, on other Irish liqueurs and on Single Malt Irish whiskey from Northern Ireland.

An earlier round of tariffs saw EU apply 25% in tariffs to US Whiskey and Bourbon imports in retaliation for US tariffs on European steel and aluminium products. These are due to increase automatically to 50% in July 2021.

And like many other industries, the sector also faces many uncertainties as a result of Brexit, with a trade-deal still to be agreed.

In 2019, the USA and UK were the two biggest export markets for Irelands Geographic Indication (GI) protected spirits, which are Irish Whiskey, Irish Cream liqueur and Poitin, highlighting the significance of these challenges.

Head of Drinks Ireland|Spirits, Vincent McGovern, said that the Government can support the domestic spirits sector in a number of ways. He elaborated: Ireland's excise taxes are the second highest in Europe and will act as a barrier to recovery. As part of a broad package of measures the government should look to deliver a 15% reduction in excise tax on drinks products which would help the industry and minimise the risk of job losses.

Mr McGovern added that the Government could also look to facilitate a safe and sustainable reopening of the hospitality sector as soon as possible, stressing how important they were for the spirits sector.

Source: www.businessworld.ie
The former head of Britain's nuclear deterrent is hoping to shake up the healthcare system by launching a 5 billion lawsuit against Health Secretary Matt Hancock.

Rear Admiral Philip Mathias is set to launch a judicial review to force the NHS to pay for elderly patients' long-term health costs.

He branded the failure of NHS bosses to pay for patients continuing healthcare (CHC) requirements 'one of the biggest public scandals of modern times'.

The former director of nuclear policy at the Ministry of Defence was inspired by his his own personal long-term battle to recover fees paid to fund his mother's care.

Rear Admiral Philip Mathias, pictured with his mother Joy, plans to sue Health Secretary Matt Hancock to force the NHS to pay for elderly patients' long-term health costs

'The failure of Government Ministers and senior NHS leadership to take effective correction action is disgraceful and they must be held to account,' he said.

'They are responsible for causing emotional distress and financial devastation to many thousands of old, ill and vulnerable people and their families.'

The case concerns the alleged failure of local NHS Clinical Care Groups (CCGs) to pay for the continuing healthcare (CHC) of tens of thousands of eligible patients every year.

NHS CHC is funded by CCGs and it is for individual authorities to make decisions on funding based on the medical needs of their local populations.

Calling it the 'best kept secret in the NHS,' Mr Mathias highlighted the legal duty of NHS England to fully fund an individuals care costs through local CCGs if their significant health issues are the main reason they need care.

Mr Mathias is crowdfunding to launch a 5million lawsuit against Health Secretary Matt Hancock (pictured)

Under national CHC rules, any patient with a significant health problem should have their care and nursing fees paid in full by the NHS - a system distinct from adult social care.

Social care is either means-tested and funded by local councils or privately funded.

Former submariner Mr Mathias claimed there is 'extensive evidence' that up to 10,000 people are unlawfully denied healthcare funding each year.

If successful, the threatened case could force the health service to pay back medical fees in the region of 5 billion.

This would make it the biggest legal judgement since the mis-selling of payment protection insurance (PPI), which has become the UK's biggest financial scandal to date.

Mr Mathias has launched a Crowd Justice fundraiser to fund the first stage of the judicial review to defeat this 'scandal'.

'There is extensive evidence to show that in the last five years, tens of thousands of old, ill and vulnerable people have been unlawfully denied healthcare funding,' he wrote on his 30,000 crowdfunding page.

'The total level of unlawful financial deprivation is staggering  possibly as high as 5 billion.

'The aim is to force the Government and NHS England to stop Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) breaking the law and to make sure redress is provided to those who have been unlawfully denied CHC funding.'

The former submariner highlighted the plight of this man on his Crowd Justice page, saying: 'This man suffered from Parkinson's disease, ulcerative colitis, double incontinence, chronic kidney disease and.... His healthcare needs were deemed insufficient to qualify for CHC funding'

Mr Mathias has first hand experience of the issue after being locked in a two year battle with Wiltshire CCG to recover his mother's nursing home fees.

His 90-year-old father shelled out 200,000 to pay for Joy's care when she was legally eligible for CHC because of her dementia diagnosis.

'I have personal experience of the dysfunctional and failing NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) system,' he wrote on his page.

'My mother had severe dementia and also suffered from numerous other serious medical conditions.

'After a gruelling two year battle, the NHS eventually agreed to fund her healthcare.

'On behalf of those who have been less successful and unlawfully denied CHC funding, I am now taking legal action against the Government and NHS England to expose this scandal and to hold them to account.'

On his Crowd Justice page, Mr Mathias also highlighted the plight of an elderly patient plagued with health conditions who was denied CHC funding.

Underneath a picture of a frail and emancipated unnamed man, he wrote: 'This man suffered from Parkinson's disease, ulcerative colitis, double incontinence, chronic kidney disease and he was unable to move or feed himself.

'His healthcare needs were deemed insufficient to qualify for CHC funding.

'The day after that decision was confirmed at an appeal, he died weighing 45kg.'

In the past five years NHS data shows the delivery of funding is a 'postcode lottery'.

An NHS spokesperson said: 'CHC funding is available to a minority of people whose eligibility is assessed on an individual level, while most people are instead covered by the rules on social care eligibility that Parliament has established.'
The Caucasus-2020 strategic command-staff exercise was a key combat training exam and a platform to test new engagement tactic. One of the elements was the use of combat tank support vehicles (BMPT). They participated in several tactical episodes, supported offensive and defensive infantry and interacted with tanks, the Independent Military Review writes.

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BMPT-72 tank support vehicle displayed at Army-2019 defense forum near Kubinka (Picture source: Army Recognition)

BMPT (also called  Terminator  *) has long been one of the most disputable vehicles. It was officially presented in 2000 and later appeared at various defense exhibitions. However, the Russian Defense Ministry has not yet decided whether it needs BMPT or not. In 2010, it excluded BMPT from the arms procurement order and stopped financing the project. The situation changed due to BMPT engagement in Syria in 2017. It proved to be irreplaceable, so the Defense Ministry signed a contract for the vehicles at Army forum in August 2017.

In 2018, the first BMPT participated in the Victory Day parade on Red Square. Central Military District Commander Colonel-General Alexander Lapin later said BMPT would be supplied to the 90th Tank Division for test operation. However, there has been no news about BMPT in the past two years. It is unclear which missions it would fulfill on the battlefield and which units would operate it. There are no photos or videos of test trials. What for do the Russian armed forces need BMPT? Which missions should they fulfill?

There are three BMPT options at present. The first one is product 199. It was designed after the war in Chechnya. The mission was to fight antitank weapons in a city ; its armament included 30mm 2A42 gun, PKT machinegun and two AGS-17 grenade launchers. Four antitank missile launchers were later added. However, Kornet missiles had to hit pinpoint targets at major distances rather than destroy armor. The guided missiles were necessary to destroy bunkers, fortifications, etc. Urban combat affected the composition and capabilities of BMPT weapons. The operator could target them nearly vertically, if necessary. This is important for target destruction in top floors and roofs of buildings.

Designers paid much attention to the protection of the crew. Grozny combat experience prompted to drop a classical tank turret. The commander, the pointer and two shooters are accommodated in the hull of the vehicle protected with reactive and slat armor.

Product 199 was initially mounted on T-72A tank chassis. It was later replaced by T-90. The set of weapons was changed and another coaxial 30mm gun added. Kornet was replaced by Ataka supersonic antitank missile.

The option of product 199 became the main one. It was displayed at all shows. The vehicle got a first  and so far only  customer: 10 BMPTs were supplied to Kazakhstan.

In 2013, Uralvagonzavod, its manufacturer, presented another BMPT option on T-72 undercarriage. The launchers of antitank missiles were hidden in armored boxes. Grenade launchers were excluded. The crew was reduced to three men. The option was called BMPT-72. It was presented at RAE-2013 show in Nizhny Tagil. BMPT-72 mockups were later demonstrated at various shows as a marketing move. In contrast to product 199, customers were proposed to upgrade available T-72 rather than buy new vehicles. So far, no BMPT-72 customer is known.

In late 2016, the Defense Ministry returned to BMPT procurement, however neither product 199 nor BMPT-72 satisfied it. A new option was designed on the basis of product 199. The crew comprised five men and the weapons remained unchanged. The new vehicle differed from BMPT-72 by technical solutions to place dynamic armor. It inherited protective covers for antitank missiles and coaxial 30mm guns. The option was tested in Syria and participated in Zapad-2017 exercise. It was later supplied to the Russian army.

* Precision given by Army Recognition

 Copyright 2020 TASS / Army Recognition Group SPRL. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Namita Bajpai And Somrita Ghosh By

Express News Service

LUCKNOW/NEW DELHI: After the horrific brutality that the gang-rape victim from Hathras district in Uttar Pradesh suffered when alive, the 19-year-old was denied dignity even in death by the Uttar Pradesh Police.

The Dalit girl, who died at Delhis Safdarjung Hospital on Tuesday, was forcibly cremated early Wednesday by Hathras police amid their claims to the contrary. As the police action sparked a massive public outrage, the Yogi Adityanath government ordered an SIT probe and vowed that no culprit would be spared.

Following the girls death, her younger brother and father were made to wait for hours before they could head back to their village Boolgarhi in Hathras. It was around 1 am when the police, along with the body and the family, reached the village.

However, the police didnt take the body to the house, her family and villagers said. The family, including the mother, elder brother and father, said they pleaded with the cops to allow them to take their daughter home before cremating her. But the police forced them to complete the last rites immediately.

When my father reached Hathras, he was immediately taken to the cremation ground by the police, the victims brother said.

The body was cremated around 3 am by the police despite the fact that cremations usually dont take place at night.

The district police and administration refuted the allegations. Hathras SP Vikrant Veer denied any urgency by the police.

Magistrate Praveen Kumar Lakshakar said the familys claims were false while joint magistrate Prem Prakash Meena claimed last rites were performed with the familys cooperation.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to CM Yogi Adityanath and called for strictest action against the culprits.

The state government set up a three-member Special Investigation Team to probe the incident and submit its report within a week.

We will take the case to a fast-track court and ensure strictest punishment for the perpetrators. The state government stands by the bereaved family, CM Yogi said. He spoke to the family via video-link and promised all help.

The CM announced a financial assistance of Rs 25 lakh for the family. He also promised a government job to one of her family members and a house in Hathras city.

However, the Opposition parties went all guns blazing at the Yogi government while protests erupted across UP and in Delhi.

A plea was filed in the Supreme Court seeking a court-monitored probe and transfer of the case to Delhi.

The NHRC issued notices to the UP government and police chief. National Commission for Women chairperson Rekha Sharma sought an explanation from the DGP for cremation of the body without the familys involvement.

Uneasy questions

Why did the police not hand over the body to the girls family in Delhi immediately after the autopsy?

Why did they force the parents to do the last rites in the wee hours after reaching their village in UP?

Is it normal to cremate anybody after sunset among Hindus? Why was an exception made in the girls case?

Congress, Left stage protests

Congress, Left and Bhim Army activists staged protests near the Uttar Pradesh Bhawan and India Gate in the national capital on Wednesday, demanding justice for the victim
Prior to the 1884/85 Berlin Conference which led to the invasion and colonization of West Africa, the region presently known as Nigeria was diversified and governed according to the various ethnic groups by different traditional/cultural (political) systems ranging from chiefdoms to monarchies and imperialism.

In the North, there was a continuous transition from imperial regime to another as each new conquest instituted a change in leadership. From the Songhai Empire to the Kanem Bornu Empire, each new victory in conquest resulted in a change in leadership for as long as centuries. The Fula jihads of Usman Dan Fodio led to the rise of the conservative Fulani Empire and establishment of the Sokoto Caliphate, with the defeat and colonization of surrounding Hausa Kingdoms (such as Nupe, Kwararafa, etc) and emirates. The conquest bid headed towards the south but was stalled by swamps and water bodies separating the north from its southern neighbors.

In the core South, the most prominent system of governance was monarchy, with the Kingdom of Benin being the most notable in the region. Alongside chiefs, elders and religious/traditional leaders, the Oba (King of Benin) ruled over residents and people of the kingdom. The West, presently known as Yorubaland and bordered by the Benin kingdom, had a similar system of governance. The Oyo Empire, adopting the governing system of the Ife people, consisted of various small city-states under a monarchial system. The city-states were governed by traditional leaders who paid homage to the Alaafin (King) of Oyo. The authority of the king was subdued to ethical checks by a state council known as the Oyo Mesi. Governance in most communities of the core Eastern region was based on a title system or chiefdom. The council of elders/chiefs (made up of custodians of renowned traditional titles), alongside the traditional/chief priest, made decisions regarding governance in the various communities. In communities (on the banks of the region) such as Aboh, Onitsha, Oguta, the system of monarchy was used in governance with the leader known as Obi (which translates to heart in Igbo Language).

The aftermath of the Napoleonic wars was heralded by an expansion bid by powerful European countries ensuing in the scramble for territories and colonies in Africa (then referred to as the Dark Continent). Britain received international recognition for its claims over West Africa. A charter was issued in 1885 to the Royal Niger Company, under the leadership of Sir George Taubman Goldie. On December 31 1899, the charter was revoked by the British Government. A compensation of was paid to the company and it transferred ownership of the territory (known as present day Nigeria) to the British Government. The western, eastern and southern areas were referred to as the Southern Nigeria Protectorate while the northern area was referred to as the Northern Nigeria Protectorate. The Protectorates were governed between 1900 and 1914 by British High Commissioners/Governors, who reported to the British monarchy. On January 1 1914, under then Governor Sir Frederick Lugard, both protectorates were merged to form the Colony and Protectorate of Nigeria. Sir Frederick Lugard became the first Governor-General, following the amalgamation. The decision of the amalgamation was made by 28 individuals, consisting of 22 British citizens and only 6 Nigerians. The Nigerian signatories to the amalgamation were:

i) HRH Maiturare Sarkin Mussulumi (Sultan of Sokoto)

ii) Usman dan Mahe (who later became Emir of Kano)

iii) Sir Kitoyi Ajasa, a lawyer

iv) HRH Oladugbolu (Alaafin of Oyo)

v) HRH R Henshaw (Obong of Calabar)

vi) Abubakar Shehu of Borno

Several powerful leaders (from the southern and eastern regions) such as Oba of Benin, Obi of Onitsha, Eze Nri, were intentionally excluded from the decision making due to their resistance and opposition of the British rule. Religious and ethnical/cultural diversities made it very difficult for the merger of administrative sectors of governance; hence the Northern and Southern provinces of the Colony and Protectorate of Nigeria continued under different administrations.

The aftermath of World War II came with continental struggle for independence by several colonies. This resulted the granting of a Federation status to Colony and Protectorate of Nigeria by the British government, leading to it becoming the Federation of Nigeria on the October 1 1954. Prior to granting the federation status to Nigeria, in March 1953, the late Sultan of Sokoto (who became Premier of the defunct Northern region), Sir Ahmadu Bello, told the Parliament that the 1914 amalgamation of the Northern and Southern Protectorates was a mistake and the northern region will not like to proceed further with the accord. Diverse opinions on the independence of Nigeria as a country led to the earliest recorded ethno-religious in May 1953. The riots, which occurred in Sabon Gari, Kano, were between Northerners (who were anti-independence) and Southerners (who were pro-independence).

A renowned Northern politician, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa (who later became the first Prime Minister of Nigeria), had also on several occasions voiced his criticism of the amalgamation. On an occasion, he said the Southern people, who are swarming into this region are really intruders. We dont want them and they are not welcome here in the North. Since the amalgamation in 1914, the British Government has been trying to make Nigeria into one country, but the Nigerian people are different in every way including religion, custom, language and aspiration. The fact that were all Africans might have misguided the British Government. We, here in the North, take it that Nigerian unity is not for us. On two other occasions, he proclaimed Nigeria existed as a country only on paper. It is still far from being united. Nigerian unity is only a British intention for the country and We do not want, Sir, our southern neighbours to interfere in our development. I should like to make it clear that to you that if the British quitted Nigeria now at this stage, the northern people would continue their uninterrupted conquest to the sea. The latter statement was made with reference of the intent of the Northern region to continue its Fula jihad bid of capturing and colonizing the Southern region.

The prominent Yoruba politician and philosopher, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, affirmed that Nigeria is not a nation; it is a mere geographic expression. In 1956, the last British Governor-General of Nigeria, Sir James Wilson Robertson, wrote The general outlook of the people [Northerners] is so different from those in Southern Nigeria as to give them practically nothing in common. There is less difference between an Englishman and an Italian, both of whom have a common civilization based on Greek and Roman foundations and on Christianity, than between a Muslim villager in Sokoto, Kano or Katsina, and an Igbo, Ijaw and Kalabari. How can any feeling of common purpose of nationality be built up between people whose culture, religion and mode of living is so completely different?.

Despite severe criticism and knowledge of the difference in fundamental languages, ethnical/cultural, religious and behavioural patterns between the Northern and Southern regions of Nigeria, the British government proceeded to grant independence on October 1 1960 to the merger of both regions as a country Nigeria. Since independence, the animosity has been very evident in the level of tolerance between the northern and southern parts of Nigeria. Ethno-religious clashes and massacres have been recorded in Jos, Kaduna, Borno, Kano, etc. The 1966 military coup, spearheaded by Igbo officers Kaduna Chukwuma Nzeogwu and Emmanuel Ifeajuna, which resulted in the death of notable Northern leaders such as the Prime Minister of Nigeria, Alhaji Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, and the Sultan of Sokoto and Premier, Sir Ahmadu Bello. The take-over of the government by the then General Officer Commanding of the Nigerian Army, Gen. Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi (who was of Igbo origin), raised the speculation that the coup was a conspiracy for an Igbo ascent to power. This led to the counter-coup, masterminded by Lt. Col. Murtala Muhammed and many Northern military officers. Following the coups, ethno-religious tensions led to clashes resulting in the massacre of several innocent Igbo soldiers and civilians. The continuous massacre of people led to the secession of the Eastern region with the then military governor Lt. Col. Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu declaring the region as Republic of Biafra on May 1967. This led to a civil war beginning on July 6 1967 and ending on January 15 1970. The war lasted for 2 years, 6 months, 1 week and 2 days, resulting to the death of about 3 million people with about 2 million Biafran civilians dying of starvation.

The aftermath of the war has been heralded with cries of marginalization of the Southern region, especially those of the Eastern area. This has caused demands by various ethnical groups for the split of Nigeria. This has led to the establishment of several organizations such as Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP), Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC), etc; all bordering on the issues of secession and political autonomy. These calls and movements have been met with staunch resistance by present Northern leaders, making it ironic that the region that initially fought the amalgamation of the Northern and Southern Protectorates is currently resisting a de-amalgamation. The major economic base (oil) has also been a factor in the calls for regional attention by certain ethnic groups in Nigeria. Prior to the civil war, on February 23 1966, a young man by name Isaac Jasper Adaka Boro, of Ijaw ethnic group, established an armed militia group Niger Delta Volunteer Force, declared the Niger Delta Republic and fought with federal forces for twelve days before accepting defeat. Recently, some Yoruba people began agitations for an autonomous nation referred to as Oduduwa Republic. A global wave of secessions and independence have been ongoing in Catalonia from Spain, Ambazonia from Cameroon, Scotland from UK, Iraqi Kurdistan, Azawad from Mali, Somaliland from Somalia, Bougainville from Papua New Guinea, etc.

Several questions have risen from the secession agitations and demands:

i) Can Nigeria split up diplomatically and without war or fighting?

ii) In the event of a spilt, would it be into two, three or more nations (based on agitations by various ethnic groups)?

iii) Will the North continue with their Fula jihad conquest after a split?

iv) What role with the international community play in the event of a split?

The political tussle in the presidency election has also continued to play a role in deepening the rift between the regions and ethnic groups in the country. Also, the people of Northern Nigeria have been favoured more with appointments and recruitments into federal positions, as compared to their counterparts from other regions of the nation. Recently, the Vice President of Nigeria Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, while addressing Nigerias unity at a commemoration church service of her 60th Independence anniversary said that there are obvious cracks that could lead to a break if not properly addressed. He called for consistent focus and prayers to tackle these issues.

However, even with the offering of prayers, if urgent, lasting policies and structures are not put in place to address the issues of equal access to judicial, political, social and educational facilities, a time may come when it would be too late for diplomatic resolutions.

Happy Independence Day/New Month to all Nigerians nationwide and in diaspora.

God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria!

Agwah Michael is the Founder of 247NewsUpdate Blog, Researcher, Human Rights Activist, Social Critic and Political Analyst
DALLAS, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Lennox International (LII) is launching the Building Better Air initiative to improve the indoor air quality (IAQ) of commercial spaces. This initiative combines the company's innovative product line and industry leading building services to provide comprehensive IAQ solutions for various commercial applications.

"Over the past six months, we've all experienced change in the way we work, shop, and socialize," said Elliot Zimmer, President and Chief Operating Officer, Lennox Commercial. "The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the key role that HVAC plays in healthy building environments and Lennox is making sure that our customers have access to the right products and services to get back to business safely."

Lennox International offers a variety of industry leading Commercial HVAC products that, when paired with a comprehensive maintenance plan, enable businesses to improve indoor air quality. Air purification, ventilation, and humidity control technology can be applied to HVAC systems to improve the safety of building environments for employees and customers.

"The Building Better Air initiative is structured to help business and building owners evaluate the current state of their HVAC systems, recommend a comprehensive indoor air quality solution tailored to the building, and identify a maintenance plan to ensure ongoing effectiveness," said Bobby DiFulgentiz, Vice President, Product Management and Marketing, Lennox Commercial.

There are three steps to Building Better Air:

EVALUATE

Indoor Air Quality Survey  A Lennox representative will offer services to assess the equipment currently serving the building to identify ways to improve indoor air quality. This assessment will evaluate the general condition of the HVAC equipment, verify proper ventilation, and detail the status of current air purification capabilities to create a baseline for the building's current indoor air quality.

SOLVE

Indoor Air Quality Solutions  After studying the details from the assessment, a Lennox representative will then walk through available options to improve indoor air quality. Focusing on air purification, ventilation, and humidity control, a comprehensive IAQ solution will be created that is tailored to the needs of the building and application.

MAINTAIN

Preventative Maintenance - Indoor air quality is an ongoing priority and it is critical that a maintenance plan is established to ensure the IAQ upgrades to the HVAC system remain effective. A Lennox representative will lay out a comprehensive maintenance schedule that will help keep the indoor air quality of the building at the recommended level.

For more information about Building Better Air, visit lennoxcommercial.com/buildingbetterair.

About Lennox International

Lennox International Inc. is a global leader in the heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration markets. Lennox International stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and traded under the symbol "LII". Additional information is available at: www.lennoxinternational.com.

Contact

Phil Gee

Director, Communications and Public Relations

972-497-7456

SOURCE Lennox International Inc.

Related Links

http://www.lennoxinternational.com


Crowds demonstrated outside the Azerbaijan Consulate in Los Angeles on Wednesday as heavy fighting between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces continued into a fourth day.

Both nations are battling over the separatist region of Nagorno-Karabakh, with statements from both sides indicating that the flare-up of a decades-old conflict that has killed dozens of people since Sunday was no closer to an end.

Hundreds gathered outside the Azerbaijan consulate in the US state to protest against what demonstrators say is Azerbaijani aggression against Armenia, ABC 7 reported.

Armenia and Azerbaijan have been locked for decades in a conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh, where a separatist war was fought in the early 1990s until three years after the breakup of the Soviet Union.

The region in the Caucasus Mountains of about 4,400 square kilometres (1,700 square miles), roughly the size of the U.S. state of Delaware, is 50 kilometres (30 miles) from the Armenian border.

On Wednesday, the fighting continued despite repeated calls for a cease-fire from around the globe.

According to officials in Nagorno-Karabakh, around 100 servicemen and several civilians on their side have been killed since the fighting erupted on Sunday.

Azerbaijani officials didn't provide details on its military casualties but said 14 civilians have been killed and 46 wounded on its side.
Anurag Kashyap has reached Versova Police station to record his statement in connection with the alleged sexual assault case registered by a 30-year-old female actor against him. A senior police officer had earlier confirmed to HT that they have summoned the 46-year-old filmmaker to join their probe.

The Mumbai Police registered an FIR against Kashyap on September 22 after the actor along with her lawyer Nitin Satpute approached them. In her police complaint, the actor has alleged that Kashyap raped her in 2013. Kashyap had dismissed the allegations, terming them as baseless.

On September 20, the actor had accused Kashyap of sexual misconduct. In her complaint to the police, she said that in August 2013, the filmmaker called her to his flat located at Yari road, Andheri, Mumbai on the pretext of giving her work in his movie. Kashyap then allegedly pushed her into a sofa and put his hand on her mouth so that she couldnt scream for help and sexually assaulted her.

Following her complaint a case under Sections 376 (I) (rape), 354 (assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty,), 341 (wrongful restraint) and 342 (wrongful confinement) of Indian Penal Code was registered.

I request the authorities to kindly take action and let the country see the demon behind this creative guy. I am aware that it can harm me and my security is at risk. I am seeking action against him, she had told the media.

On Monday, the actor in a joint media press conference with Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale, had demanded that Kashyap should be arrested. The two had also met Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Raj Bhavan and presented a memorandum, seeking protection and arrest of Kashyap.

Also read: Abhishek Banerjee plays a romantic character for first time in PariWar, fulfils all 3 criteria needed for his moms approval

In a statement, Kashyap has denied the allegations, claiming that they were baseless. I neither behave like this nor do I ever tolerate this at any price, he had said. Many of his Bollywood colleagues including Taapsee Pannu, ex-wife Kalki Koechlin had shared testimonies in his support.

(With ANI inputs)

Follow @htshowbiz for more

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Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 17:08:48|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- The People's Republic of China embraces its 71st founding anniversary amid the country's race against time to realize national rejuvenation withstanding various challenges, thus evincing a test of courage as the road ahead is not devoid of struggles.

Since the beginning of this year, the country has grappled with numerous challenges. The sudden outbreak of the COVID-19 epidemic, severe floods and the increasingly uncertain external environment have all served as a reminder that national rejuvenation will not come easy. To realize this grand dream, China must fight a valiant battle.

Thanks to the unified efforts of all Chinese people under the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC), the country forged a heroic feat against COVID-19 and became the first major global economy to rebound. Victory in building a moderately prosperous society in all respects is within sight, thereby fully demonstrating the strength of the CPC leadership and China's socialist system.

China has benefited from the world peace and development. Meanwhile, a burgeoning China indicates a greater force for fairness and justice. The country is committed to promoting an open and inclusive world economy, with the virtue of multilateralism to safeguard world peace and stability.

However, the progress achieved so far cannot be an excuse to stop moving forward as China is still a developing nation. The country has arrived at a critical point of whether it could avoid the middle-income trap, a typical conundrum faced by many developing middle-income economies. China must advance reforms to tackle challenges in ecological protection, employment, healthcare, housing and education.

China must also face up to external challenges involving certain countries that attempt to contain its development through bullying tactics and incite unwarranted provocations on issues related to Xinjiang, Tibet, Hong Kong, Taiwan and the South China Sea. Such forces are pushing the world into the abyss of ideological confrontation and clash of civilizations.

The road ahead is marred by trials and hardships, but battling difficulties will strengthen the nation's conviction in its dream of rejuvenation.

All risks and challenges plaguing the CPC leadership, China's socialist system, as well as the country's sovereignty, security, development and people's fundamental interests, will be fought unswervingly until victory is secured.

China will put more effort into effectively implementing regular epidemic control measures and promoting high-quality development that is efficient, sustainable and secure. The country will march on the path of peaceful development and will resolutely safeguard its core interests.

The past seven decades have shown that a developing country can achieve modernization by exploring a path that suits its national condition rather than following the Western model. The success story will continue as China marches toward a modern socialist country that is prosperous, strong, democratic, culturally advanced, harmonious and beautiful. Enditem
President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump have tested positive for the COVID-19 coronavirus, the president tweeted early Friday.

Trumps positive test comes just hours after the White House announced that senior aide Hope Hicks came down with the virus after traveling with the president several times this week. Trump was last seen by reporters returning to the White House on Thursday evening and looked to be in good health. Trump is 74 years old, putting him at higher risk of serious complications from a virus that has now killed more than 200,000 people nationwide.

Tonight, @FLOTUS and I tested positive for COVID-19. We will begin our quarantine and recovery process immediately. We will get through this TOGETHER! Trump tweeted.

Trump announced late Thursday that he and first lady Melania Trump were beginning a quarantine process after Hicks came down with the virus, though it wasnt clear what that entailed. It can take days for an infection to be detectable by a test.

The news throws into disarray the presidents planned trip to Wisconsin. He had intended to lead rallies in Green Bay and Janesville after canceling a visit to La Crosse.
: WangLimin (), : NewYork

 : NYS WCB G2029240: My Way of Living on Oct. 01, 2020

: JUSTICE,MURDER ATTEMPTS,GOVERNMENT TERRORISM,VICTIM LIMIN WANG

: BBS  (Thu Oct 1 15:07:23 2020, )



NYS WCB G2029240: My Way of Living on Oct. 01, 2020



by Limin Wang



October 1st, 2020



October 1st, 2020, or 10/01/2020, looks to be an auspicious date, and it is

the 71st anniversary of the still "Communist" China's National Day and

happens to be the Mid-Autumn Festival day this year. My observance of these

special days is to LOOK FORWARD to what THEY STAND FOR, by publicizing two

emails out of my recent interactions with New York government agencies and a

"treating" clinic on my serious injuries sustained from a series of

premeditated and coordinated murder-attempts.



[This first email replies to NYS government agencies.]



Sept. 28, 2020, Monday



Honorable NYCourts, Queens DA's Office, Ms. Melinda Katz, Housing and Worker

Protection Bureau, Mr. William Jorgenson, Mr. Mike Albanesi,





I received a postal mail on Sept. 25, 2020, Fri, from Queens District

Attorney's Office. The inside one-page letter prints that Mr. William

Jorgenson appears to be the sender. While the letter itself is dated Sept.

14, 2020, the envelope postmark states Sept. 23, 2020.



The full paragraph reads as follows in quotes:

"Please be advised that this office will not be perusing criminal charges at

this time. Although there is reason to believe that some wrongdoing may

have occurred in this case, our investigation revealed insufficient evidence

to meet our burden of proof in a criminal case at this time. If, in the

future, evidence of criminal acts is discovered, this office will review the

matter again at that time."



I happened to notice that the word "perusing" is spelt the way it is in the

letter, not as I first interpretted as "persuing".



The letter doesn't specify what investigation has been done and what

evidence has been obtained by the Queens DA's Office. At least, I don't

think that I the victim/complainant have even been properly contacted by any

law enforcement agency. The Precinct 109 police were threatening me to

leave, leaving alone to file a police report; Queens DA seemed to have

contacted me, but the several incoming phones were ALL ANONYMOUS calls, and

the phone sound quality was often CRACKY. This postal mail seems to be

authentic from Queens DA's Office, but it could also be a counterfeit or

fraud. The message indicates it has not shut completely close the door to me

yet, but what further investigation on this DITS#12200075 is in the plan?

My injured body has not been honestly or properly diagnosed or properly

treated by the Workers' Compensation system, and my injured life can not

survive such negligence if no intentionality from the government agencies.

If the found truth is that I am a victim of government terrorism, then it

may be my futile attempts to seek the government's investigation and

punishment on perpetrators of murder-attempts.



I will try to list out some major specific facts after their scheduled Oct.

02, 2020, 9:00 am - 10:30 am telephonic deposition from the "treating"

doctor Benjamin Uh. No justice or integrity is expected from my opponents. I

hope my cell phone, recently powering itself off frequently unpredictably

during my usual usage, will work normally during the Oct. 02, 2020

telephonic hearing, otherwise the NYS Workers' Compensation Board would once

again decide my "absence". Such is not a fiction story.



Very Truly Yours,



Limin Wang

Injured Worker/Patient/Victim



[The second email responses to NYCMNO's mishandling of the RAW DATA and the

medical reports direct submission.]



Oct. 01, 2020, Thu,





Re: NYS WCB Case G2029240, "RAW DATA/FIGURES", and DIRECT SUBMISSION of "

MEDICAL REPORTS"



Dr. Mehrdad Golzad, Ms. Faselis Mena, NYS WCB,



I have been asking for the RAW DATA/FIGURES of the March 05, 2018 BATTERY of

tests with electronic gears and the March 15, 2018 EEG&EKG test for a long

time and many times. During my Sept. 24, 2020, Thu, medical visit to the

Suite 601 office, I was given an orange envelope with FIVE printed sheets,

and only ONE sheet shows with such raw data (one table of data, and one

panel of two wave-figures), which is titled as "Vestibular Evoked Myogenic

Potential". The sheet of "Computerized Dynamic Posturography" has four

numbers as raw data carried along with the sentences. Nothing else of any

RAW DATA/FIGURES about the BATTERY of tests done on March 05, 2018. There

still is NO original wave-figures or analyzed wave-figures or numbers about

the March 15, 2018 EEG&EKG test.



Also, by my recent access to NYS WCB eCase G2029240 on Sept. 23, 29, and 30,

I still have NOT seen any direct submission of the "Medical Reports" of

since Feb. 2019 by New York City Medical & Neurological Office to have been

shown on NYS WCB eCase G2029240.



The perpetrators of this series of premeditated and coordinated murder-

attempts on my life think the SYSTEM has all the POWER to torture and murder

-attempt and kill me.



Very Truly Yours,

Limin Wang

--

 :WWW  mitbbs.com [FROM: 2604:2000:b808:]


Changing the Rules of Ransomware

Over the years, ransomware has grown into one of the most prominent and damaging threats facing organizations.

In this webinar, join Mike McLellan  Director of Intelligence at SecureWorks  as he discusses:

How ransomware attacks have evolved over the years

Which geographic regions & industry verticals are the most likely targets

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She spent more than a decade living in Los Angeles covering ritzy red carpet events and interviewing celebrities for Extra TV.

But Australian native Renee Bargh has revealed that she has no plans to live in the US again following her return Down Under to co-host The Voice Australia with Darren McMullen.

In an interview with Sydney Confidential on Thursday, the 34-year-old explained that she feels 'safe and comfortable' in Australia.

Staying put: Australian native Renee Bargh (pictured), has revealed that she has no plans to live in the US again following her return Down Under to co-hots The Voice

'I feel so safe and comfortable here,' she told the publication.

'I feel like I am here permanently and LA, I can't wait to go back there when I can but this is home base now.'

According to the publication Renee is still working remotely for Extra, filing stories from Australia and undertaking international junkets via Zoom.

Remote work: According to the publication Renee is still working for Extra, filing stories from Australia and undertaking international junkets via Zoom. Pictured with The Voice colleague, Delta Goodrem

Remote work: According to the publication Renee is still working for Extra, filing stories from Australia and undertaking international junkets via Zoom

However, Renee's role as co-host on The Voice will not be going ahead following the show's move from Channel Nine to Channel Seven.

The network is set to replace the new hosts, Renee and Darren, with former host Sonia Kruger, who made the jump to Channel Seven in November last year.

And, it's not the only change that the network plans to make to the hit singing competition.

New gig? It's been reported Mariah Carey (pictured) is in negotiations to replace the show's longest serving judge, Delta Goodrem

According to a report by The Sydney Morning Herald on Monday, Mariah Carey is in negotiations to replace the show's longest serving judge, Delta Goodrem.

Seven West Media chief executive James Warburton is reportedly in the final stages of 'wrapping up negotiations' with Mariah.

At this stage, it's unknown if any of the show's other three judges - Guy Sebastian, Kelly Rowland and Boy George - will return.
Are our law enforcement officers and firefighters finally going to be able to talk to each other on their radios? After decades of systems that dont interface and dead spots that put everyone in the dark, if not in danger, is this really going to happen?

Thanks to an appropriation from state lawmakers last year, Albuquerque police, Albuquerque Fire Rescue, State Police and other departments are receiving $38 million to upgrade their radio systems. Mayor Tim Keller says the citys first responders cant talk to other agencies on their radios, and radio dead spots have plagued the citys system, which hasnt been upgraded in more than 15 years.

The lack of integration has been a long-standing problem, such as in 2018 when three people were shot at the Ben E. Keith warehouse in Albuquerque. A chase for the suspect spanned multiple police jurisdictions in Bernalillo and Sandoval counties, during which police had to improvise to communicate because of radio problems. And during the law enforcement surge last summer, State Police and APD officers could not talk via radio.

AFR spokesman Lt. Tom Ruiz says the new radio systems will take advantage of technologies that have come about in the past 20 years, such as location services to show the position of every unit, Wi-Fi capabilities and a texting feature that will allow the dispatch center to text an officer. These are all basic 21st century technology tools in much of the civilian world  though granted much of New Mexico struggles with connectivity. Parents routinely track their childrens cellphones, Wi-Fi is a given way to save on your data plan and texting is the new calling. First responders should have all of these at their fingertips.

Much work remains to be done, as thousands of radios will have to be purchased and programmed. And it needs to be done right. This upgrade should not be a repeat of the many multimillion-dollar computer hardware and software debacles in state and local government, or the first-generation body cameras that had myriad issues.

Better radio connectivity for first responders from multiple agencies has the potential to save lives and improve service all across central New Mexico. The city is right to place the project on the front burner, with the goal of implementing the new system by the end of the year, because every minute counts during an emergency.

This editorial first appeared in the Albuquerque Journal. It was written by members of the editorial board and is unsigned as it represents the opinion of the newspaper rather than the writers.
The Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed that two workers on the government's revamped hotel quarantine program attended work while infectious.

The department said the pair, who were among nine workers on the program to have become infected with COVID-19, were asymptomatic when they attended work.

As Victoria recorded 15 new cases of COVID-19 on Thursday, and another two lives lost to the virus, the political row over the hotels was reignited after workers on the program were sent home mid-shift and replaced by police in one of the programs "hot hotels" on Wednesday amid infection control fears.

Premier Daniel Andrews told his daily media briefing on Thursday that Victoria Police and not private security contractors were in charge of the remaining quarantine hotels and that Wednesdays changes at the Novotel in Southbank were part of the "transition" of the quarantine hotels as the number of travellers in isolation dwindled.
Ella Wolff, who is close in age to 12-year-old Max Schollenberger, shared a poem about his tortured death Thursday standing on the Lebanon County Courthouse steps before she marched with a few others throughout the city to raise child abuse awareness.

He was 12, Ella Wolff said. He was still a child and had been horribly abused and then killed. This makes me so angry. He didnt deserve it. No child should go through what he did. A child should not have to worry about being abused, starved, or fed table scraps from his siblings."

Max Schollenbergers dead body was found by authorities on May 26. He had been starved, beaten, and discovered in his own feces. Many people  including the familys neighbors  did not know he existed, let alone that he was abused.

The boys father, Scott Schollenberger Jr., 42, and his fathers fiancee, Kimberly Maurer, 35, have since been charged with homicide.

There are so many kids just like Max that need our help, Ella Wolff said. We have to work together to fight. Lets save our children. Start speaking out to someone if you ever see someone getting hurt.

Organizers said they are heartbroken by the boys death, and were inspired to do something. They said they feel strongly about becoming proactive to prevent child abuse, rescue missing children, and stop child trafficking.

We need to learn and educate ourselves on how to see that somebodys being abused, said organizer Nichole Harner. This cant happen again.

Harner, a former Annville Township resident, and lifetime Lebanon County resident, said shes driven past Max Schollenbergers house countless times. She said shes still in disbelief that nobody knew the boy was quietly suffering inside that home.

I cant imagine having my own child locked in a room and just not feeding them, said the mother of three. He might not have even been aware of the severity of what was happening to him.

Harner said shes been working with others to try to craft legislation that would establish stricture punishments for child abusers. Pennsylvania law doesnt go far enough, she said.

Her hope is to pitch it to Lebanon County Republican state Rep. Russ Diamond. It would be called Maxwells law, but shes not sure what exactly would be in it yet. However, she said it needs to have more teeth to establish justice.

If I had known about the abuse, I would have immediately called the cops anonymously or not, she said. I dont care if you want to come after me because I would sooner have you came after me than after a child.

District Attorney Pier Hess Graf said the 12-year-old was kept for years in a dark bare room with the blinds duct-taped and shutters nailed shut. There was no electricity, toys or furniture, other than the bed on which Max Schollenbergers body was found, Graf said. She said police were called after Maurer told a neighbor about the 12-year-olds death.

Graf said Max Schollenberger never received medical care or attended school.

Abused as a child, Harner said shes going to continue to shine a light on the subject.

I will never understand what Max went through, but I know that as far as his siblings go, they were probably scared out of their mind if they even understood that it was wrong, Harner said. And, they were probably scared to go tell anybody.

Dozens of people showed up early Thursday for the march but were turned away because Harners permit had a time limit. Though only five people marched through Lebanon City, Harner said it is only the beginning.

My daughter became passionate about fighting for Max, Kathi Wolff said. She was heartbroken about what happened, and when we asked her why is this so important to you, she said because he couldnt speak, so Im going to speak for him."

"And, that was all I needed to hear.
We know that the pandemic has warranted a global response and we feel that our service to the people of Guyana speaks volumes about the unique mission that is entrusted to us, said Ryan Carey, Vice President of Operations, Qualfon Guyana.

Qualfon has been selected by the Government of Guyana to support the countrys official COVID-19 Hotline. Qualfon has a long-standing reputation as a good corporate citizen within Guyana.

Early on, the Ministry of Health recognized the need to expand and improve their COVID-19 hotline services. Prompted by a proactive, nationwide communications campaign, the hotline served as the main entry point to capture contacts and people who were reporting symptoms of the virus. The Ministry recognized the need to grow their internal hotline team and quickly realized they did not have the adequate space available to meet the social distancing requirements. Qualfon promptly jumped into action and responded to the need to support of the people of Guyana.

The Ministry of Health selected Qualfon based on the comprehensive measures already in place to protect the health and well-being of employees by ensuring social distancing, enhanced cleaning services and work-at-home arrangements when necessary. Qualfons 10-acre campus has purposely designed spaces that guarantee social distancing is practiced throughout its complex.

Today, the Ministry of Health is utilizing Qualfons facilities, procedures and technology to host the COVID-19 hotline. The hotline provides information to citizens who are exhibiting symptoms, have been exposed or just need general information in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic. The team has also started a follow-up campaign that includes making sure those infected have recovered and citizens that were awaiting re-entry are able to return to the country.

We are very pleased with the quick turnaround time and service we received from Qualfon. We recognized the policies established by Qualfon to keep its employees safe and felt comfortable sending our employees over there. They are truly setting a benchmark that other business should follow, said Doctor Ertenisa Hamilton, Director of Primary Health Care Services, Ministry of Health.

We are honored that our facilities and technology platform are being used to serve the people of Guyana in such a meaningful way, said Ryan Carey, Vice President of Operations, Qualfon Guyana. We know that the pandemic has warranted a global response and we feel that our service to the people of Guyana speaks volumes about the unique mission that is entrusted to us, Carey continued.

About Qualfon

Qualfon is a full-service marketing solutions and contact center service provider offering full customer lifecycle management: lead generation, end-to-end integrated marketing, multichannel customer engagement, print and fulfillment. With experienced BPO leadership and a strong track record of business growth dating back to our founding in 1995, Qualfon helps companies reduce costs and deliver superior customer experiences. At peak, we have approximately 15,000 employees serving international brands across many industries and our intelligent outsourcing locations span the United States, the Philippines, Guyana, Mexico and Costa Rica. Qualfons mission to be the best and make each persons life better means we invest in our people and, in return, they take better care of you and your customers. Qualfons employee retention regularly exceeds the industry average, which creates a person-driven value chain: our employees stay longer, providing a higher quality service at a lower price. In 2019, Qualfon Guyana was awarded the Caribbean BPO Investor and Innovator of the Year awards at the Outsource to the Caribbean. Both of these awards distinguish organizations for remarkable achievements that foster the expansion and investments in the Caribbean regions. Qualfon was specifically recognized for our investments in Guyana and for our continuing commitment to the Guyanese community.
Localities seek return of capital

According to the Ministry of Planning and Investment, the total investment capital realized from the state budget in the first seven months of 2020 reached around VND 203,000 bn, an increase of 27.2% compared to the same period in 2019. This was the highest investment amount in the period 2016 to 2020, of which, capital from central budget was 16%, and 84% was from the local budget.

With reference to the central budget, investment capital disbursement rate in seven months reached about 60%, but was only 38.4% of the plan. With reference to the local budget, total investment capital that needs to be disbursed as planned this year is about VND 351,000 bn, but only about VND 170,000 bn has been disbursed, which is 42.6% of the plan. This has put great pressure on many localities in the last months of the year, and up until now nine provinces and cities have requested the public investment for projects with slow disbursement to be reimbursed or returned.

Ho Chi Minh City has always remained in the top localities in the country for many years for effectively disbursing public investment. According to the People's Committee of Ho Chi Minh City, in 2020 the City has allocated capital for public investment worth VND 42,139 bn. In this, the State Budget Capital is about VND 33,940 bn and Central Budget Capital is VND 8,198 bn. As of 31 August, Ho Chi Minh City had disbursed VND 21,472 bn out of VND 42,139 bn assigned. In this the City Budget Capital was VND 17,314 bn and the Central Budget Capital was VND 4,158 bn. According to the People's Committee of Ho Chi Minh City, it will affect the economic recovery of Ho Chi Minh City, but will also create great pressure for the City in the last months of the year. Therefore, Ho Chi Minh City only aims to complete 95% of the plan to disburse financial funds this year.

Bottlenecks in site clearance

The 2019 Law on Public Investment became effective from 1 January 2020. It has very detailed provisions in planning, as well as strict rules in Article 16 to prevent corruption and loss of public investment capital. However, the responsibility assigned to related agencies and units on how to use the investment capital according to the plan and the sanctions related to capital are still very vague. Therefore, the 2019 Law on Public Investment requires the Government to give specific guidelines for relevant legal documents, including Investment Law, Construction Law, Land Law, and Bidding Law, so as to ensure consistency and clarity.

For instance, the biggest problem localities encounter when implementing disbursement is site clearance. According to Mr. Mai Xuan Liem, Vice Chairman of the People's Committee of Thanh Hoa Province, the task of site clearance, compensation, relocation and resettlement before implementing any public investment project is the most difficult stage. By the end of August 2020, Thanh Hoa province had completed disbursing 66.4% of total financial resources assigned for 2020. However, to complete the plan, the progress of capital disbursement must be accelerated, which depends a lot on site clearance to implement the projects.

Localities face many difficulties in disbursing public investment capital, due to changes in mechanisms, policies and laws, but lack of synchronization, making the procedures so complex.

For example, the provisions of the Land Law now create the difference in land prices between the compensation price and the market price. The regulations on land prices to compensate people upon acquisition under Article 112 and Article 114 of the 2013 Land Law guided in Decree 44/2014/ND-CP have been implemented according to the principle of ensuring close proximity. However, there are still large gaps that need to be overcome.



According to Prof. Dang Hung Vo, former Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, in Article 112 of the 2013 Land Law, the land valuation must ensure the following principles: (i) the land use purpose at the time of valuation. (ii) clear land use terms. (iii) prevailing market price of land with income from land use. (iv) profitability and income from similar land use to have the same price.

Prof. Dang Hung Vo also emphasized that the Land Law did not fully anticipate the possibility that before acquiring, the purpose of using the land could be only for agriculture, not urban residential purposes, or the pre-acquisition land may be located in the middle of the field, but after the project is implemented by the investor, the land will be changed to increase the compensation value. Prof. Vo feels that this is also the reason that many public investment projects, despite disbursement, cannot acquire the land from the people, which then leads to loss of compensation, delays in site clearance and investment capital flow.

Luu Thuy
The armed formations of the Russian Federation violated the ceasefire 11 times over the past day. One Ukrainian soldier was wounded.

In the area of responsibility of the operational and tactical group "East", the invaders fired small arms near Avdiivka (17km north of Donetsk); grenade machine guns  outside Novotroitske (36km south-west of Donetsk), the press center of the JFO Headquarters reports.

According to the press center, in the area of responsibility of the operational and tactical group "North", the militants provoked the Ukrainian military firing small arms near Novooleksandrivka (65km west of Luhansk). In addition, Russian occupation forces launched three attacks from small arms and an under-barrel grenade launcher outside Zolote (60km west of Luhansk); a hand-held anti-tank grenade launcher and small arms in the area of Khutir Vilny; grenade launchers of different systems  near Zaitseve (62km north-east of Donetsk), Myronivsky (75km north-east of Donetsk), Novotoshkivske (53km west of Luhansk).

"One Ukrainian serviceman received shrapnel wound as a result of an enemy shot from a grenade launcher. The soldier was promptly taken to a medical facility, where he undergoes the necessary medical care," the statement reads.

Today, October 1, one ceasefire violation has been recorded in the area of Stanytsia Luhanska (16km north-east of Luhansk).

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UP: Elections not won on exit polls basis, results will be surprising: Kamal Nath

Hospital report doesnt confirm rape says Hathras SP

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

New Delhi, Oct 01: The medical report by Aligarh hospital of the lady who succumbed to an assault by four upper-caste men did not confirm rape, superintendent of police (SP) Vikrant Vir said on Thursday.

"The medical report from the Aligarh Muslim University Medical College mentions that there were injuries but it does not confirm forced sexual intercourse. They're waiting for a report of the forensics. As of now, doctors say that they're not confirming rape," he said.

The SP also added that the Special Investigation Team formed by Chief Minister of UP, Yogi Adityanath has visited the village and met the victim's family on Wednesday.

Hathras gang-rape case: NHRC issues notice to Uttar Pradesh govt, state police chief

"The three-member team inspected the crime spot. Investigation is on," the Hathras SP said.

Hathras district magistrate P Lakshkar said that the SIT was scheduled to meet the victim's family members again on Thursday, ANI reported

Meanwhile the administration imposed prohibitory orders in this district of Uttar Pradesh for maintaining law and order.

"Section 144 (of the Code of Criminal Procedure) has been imposed in the district. It will be in force till October 31," District Magistrate PK Lakshkar said on Thursday.

Hathras sealed ahead of Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi's visit|Oneindia News

The administration has also ordered to seal the borders of Hathras district.

Hathras gangrape: Plea in SC for CBI probe, transfer of trial to Delhi

The decision was taken to maintain law and order in the district, which hogged limelight after a 19-year-old Dalit gang rape victim from the district died at a Delhi hospital on Tuesday.
Greenhouse Northbrook has a home-grown, welcoming vibe that promotes inclusivity, inviting customers to experience the space as their new home for adult-use cannabis in Illinois.

The open floor plan, with high vaulted ceilings and abundant natural light, was deliberately configured to offer a premium, curated customer experience, with a large focus on educational displays throughout the space. The interior will include two consultation zones dedicated to in-depth consultations with trained product specialists and will have seven point of sale stations with social distancing parameters put in place.

"At Greenhouse, we are committed to educating our customers on the benefits of cannabis and providing customers access to high-quality and innovative products" says Matt Darin, COO. "The Greenhouse experience enhances the communities we serve, and we're proud to have created an in-dispensary experience that is inclusive and welcoming to people from all walks of life."

The Northbrook location has filled 46 new jobs, with a focus on inclusive hiring that will drive equitable, diverse growth opportunities within the cannabis industry.

Hours of operation for Greenhouse Northbrook are Monday-Sunday 8:00 a.m.- 8:00 p.m. Available products will include flower, vapes, extracts/oils, topicals, concentrates, and edibles.

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. closed on its acquisition of Grassroots on July 23. In connection with that acquisition, Greenhouse Northbrook will come under the Curaleaf umbrella and branding pending final regulatory approval.

For more information on Greenhouse, visit the company's website .

High res imagery available HERE.

About Greenhouse Group

The Greenhouse Group is committed to building lasting change in their native state of Illinois, serving both medical and recreational customers. It's where passionate product specialists know and serve people from all walks of life, connecting communities to safe, hand-selected, locally-grown products and services. Founded in 2014, Greenhouse operates six locations: Deerfield, Litchfield, Mokena, Morris, Skokie and their newest addition in Northbrook IL. Greenhouse is rooted in raising the standards within cannabis and within the communities they serve. Greenhouse is your home for cannabis. For more information, visit https://www.greenhouseil.com

About Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF) ("Curaleaf") is a leading vertically integrated U.S. multi-state cannabis operator with a mission to improve lives by providing clarity around cannabis and confidence around consumption. As a high-growth cannabis company known for quality, expertise and reliability, the company and its brands, including Curaleaf and Select, provide industry-leading service, product selection and accessibility across the medical and adult-use markets. Curaleaf currently operates in 23 states with 93 dispensaries, 22 cultivation sites and over 30 processing sites, and employs over 3,000 team members across the United States. Curaleaf is listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol CURA and trades on the OTCQX market under the symbol CURLF. For more information please visit www.curaleaf.com .

SOURCE Greenhouse

Related Links

https://www.greenhouseil.com


Mumbai, the countrys financial capital, recorded the highest number of offences under the Environment (Protection) Act (EPA), 1986, in 2019 among 19 major Indian cities for the second consecutive year, the National Crime Records Bureaus (NCRB) latest report has revealed.

In the backdrop of the report, the Mumbai city collector on Wednesday directed the Mumbai Police to file first information reports (FIRs) against Indian Army personnel at the Sagarmatha Club in Colaba and landowners at a wetland in Wadala following alleged violations of the EPA, 1986.

Violators in both the cases must be booked within the next seven days, said Rajeev Nivatkar, collector, Mumbai city.

EPA, 1986 violations are related to felling of trees, cutting of mangroves, flouting of coastal regulation zones (CRZs), dumping debris in eco-sensitive zones, illegal quarrying and cutting of hills, and other offences related to air and water pollution.

Also Read: Maharashtra government submits action plan before NGT to tackle waste at Mumbai mangroves

NCRB data revealed that of the 20 cases recorded under EPA, 1986 in 2019, Mumbai was the worst offender at eight, followed by Hyderabad (6), Nagpur (5), and Chennai (1).

In 2018, a city-wise environmental crime data was published by the NCRB for the first time, where Mumbai had recorded 10 cases, which was the highest among the 19 cities surveyed.

However, the NCRB figure was a fraction, as compared to the data collated by the Maharashtra revenue department.

According to the Mumbai suburban collectors office, violations under the EPA, 1986 were 244 in 2019 against 286 in 2018. While similar violations in Mumbai city were 56 in 2019, as compared to 68 in 2018.

The reason for fewer cases documented by the NCRB vis-a-vis revenue department data is because environmental offence information is submitted by the Mumbai Police, who record fewer cases as compared to the revenue department, which is empowered to file offences under the EPA Act, 1986, said an Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) official, the monitoring agency for such violations.

Also Read: Maharashtra cabinet decides to withdraw cases against green activists for Aarey protests

NCRB and revenue department data are indicative of proper reporting and documentation of cases in both Mumbai and Maharashtra, as compared to other states, he added.

The NCRB data for EPA, 1986 offences for Maharashtra showed 42 cases in 2019, as compared to 45 in 2018.

It was the second-highest offence last year after Uttar Pradesh (UP), which had recorded 382 cases. However, the tally of environment-related offences -- all acts clubbed under environmental crime such as the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972; the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000; the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981; EPA, 1986; and Indian Forest Act, 1927 -- was 1,004 across Maharashtra last year.

The corresponding cases in 2016 and 2017 were 176 and 439, respectively. The offences had gone up exponentially to 1,010 cases in 2018.

Better detection and a rigorous follow up by the state authorities coupled with awareness among the public for reporting cases led to the marginal decline last year, said Sanjay Sandanshiv, undersecretary, environment department, Maharashtra.

No cases were reported for offences under forest laws, air and noise pollution or the National Green Tribunal (NGT) Act, 2010. While four cases were reported under violations of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

The environmentalists have welcomed the Mumbai city collectors move to book offenders in the two cases.

The first one involved repeated complaints by environment group, Conservation Action Trust (CAT), alleging dumping of illegal debris to reclaim land along the periphery of Sagarmatha club in Navy Nagar Colaba by the Indian Army. The alleged move has led to wanton mangrove destruction.

The Army claims that the debris is intended to fortify the club against sea erosion.

We are happy that the Mumbai city collector has again reiterated his decision to book the club authorities. Reclamation and destruction of mangroves has been continuing for years, despite innumerable complaints. The collector has also agreed to order the removal of the debris and undertake mangrove plantation for trees destroyed in the area. This is the most important step that was long overdue, said Debi Goenka, executive trustee, CAT.

The second case is on the basis of complaints filed by Vanashakti, a non-governmental organisation (NGO), regarding dumping of debris and encroachments across an 80-acre wetland located 500 metres (m) from Bhakti Park Monorail station along the eastern freeway in Wadala.

The area is identified as wetland under the Maharashtra National Wetland Atlas, 2011 and is home to a 10-acre water body. However, encroachers built a road for the movement of trucks to the site to dump construction waste. The state machinery seems to have woken up after almost 19 months to remove the debris and also initiate prosecution. We hope it wont be delayed further and the culprits will be booked soon, said Stalin D, director, Vanashakti.

OTHER ENVIRONMENTAL CRIMES IN MAHARASHTRA IN 2019

Maharashtra also recorded 89 and 53 cases under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules,2000, respectively, according to the NCRB data.

These are the third and the fourth-highest cases in the country, respectively.

Data revealed that only two cases were filed under various forest laws.

But no case was registered under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 and Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act,1974 even though Maharashtra recorded the highest number of polluted cities.

The state is also home to the maximum number of polluted river stretches (54) in the country.

HIGHEST CASES IN INDIA

Tamil Nadu (13,316), followed by Rajasthan (10,782), and Kerala (5,054) recorded the maximum number of environmental cases last year, according to the NCRB data.

While the least number of environmental crimes were reported from the north-eastern states, Himachal Pradesh (HP), Goa, and Odisha, the data showed.

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Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 19:33:39|Editor: huaxia

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HONG KONG, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Malaysia on Thursday recorded its highest number of COVID-19 cases since June, as Japan eased entry restrictions for certain foreigners.

Malaysia reported 260 new COVID-19 infections, the Health Ministry said, bringing the national total to 11,484.

Health Ministry Director-General Noor Hisham Abdullah said in a press briefing that one of the new cases is imported and 259 are local transmissions.

Japan eased entry restrictions into the country for foreigners around the world put in place to combat the spread of COVID-19, although entry is still being refused for tourists.

Those such as foreign medical professionals, teachers and others who are qualified for medium or long-term stays for three months or longer will be allowed entry, the government said, with those traveling for business purposes for less than three months also being eligible.

The COVID-19 cases in Indonesia rose by 4,174 within one day to 291,182, with the death toll adding by 116 to 10,856, the Health Ministry said.

According to the ministry, 3,540 more people were discharged from hospitals, bringing the total number of recovered patients to 218,487.

Donors are needed in Myanmar to treat critically ill COVID-19 patients under the convalescent plasma therapy, a health official told Xinhua.

"Potential donors with high levels of virus-neutralizing antibodies are needed now," said Than Naing Soe, director of Health Literacy Promotion Unit of the Public Health Department under the Ministry of Health and Sports.

The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the Philippines surged to 314,079 after the Philippines' Department of Health (DOH) reported 2,415 new daily cases.

New Zealand reported 12 new cases of COVID-19, all detected in managed isolation and imported from overseas. All of the 12 imported cases have been transferred to a dedicated quarantine facility.

India recorded 86,821 new COVID-19 cases and 1,181 deaths, taking the total tally to 6,312,584 and the death toll to 98,678, according to the latest data issued by the federal health ministry.

There are 940,705 active COVID-19 cases in the country, and 5,273,201 people have been cured and discharged.

South Korea reported 77 more cases of COVID-19 compared to 24 hours ago, raising the total number of infections to 23,889.

The daily caseload fell below 100 after recording 113 in the previous day. The double-digit increase continued amid small cluster infections in Seoul and its surrounding Gyeonggi province. Enditem


1 / 15 Auto Stocks | Automobile companies will release their monthly sales data today.



2 / 15 Reliance Industries | Co-investors of Silver Lake will invest an additional Rs 1,875 crore into Reliance Retail Ventures Ltd (RRVL), a retail subsidiary of Reliance Industries. This brings the aggregate investment by Silver Lake and its co-investors in RRVL to Rs 9,375 crore, which will translate into a 2.13 percent equity stake in RRVL on a fully diluted basis. (Disclosure: Network18, the parent company of CNBCTV18.com, is controlled by Independent Media Trust, of which Reliance Industries is the sole beneficiary.) (Image: Reuters)



3 / 15 ONGC, OIL India, City Gas Distribution companies | The domestic gas price for October-March, 2020-21 has been cut by 25.1 percent to $1.79 per MMBTU as against the earlier price of $2.39 per MMBTU. The ceiling price for deepwater natural gas is set at $4.06 per MMBTU for the H2FY21 period, which was earlier at $5.61 per MMBTU. (Image: Reuters)



4 / 15 Inox Leisure, PVR | The central government has allowed cinemas, theatres, and multiplexes to operate with up to 50 percent of their seating capacity from October 15, for which separate SOPs will be issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.



5 / 15 HDFC | The National Housing Bank has imposed a penalty of Rs 1.5 lakh on the corporation for non-compliance with two provisions of the Housing Finance Companies (NHB) Directions, 2010 during the financial year 2018-19.



6 / 15 Bank of Baroda | The bank has dissolved its wholly-owned nonfunctional subsidiary at UK with effect from September 22. As on date, the bank has a wholesale branch and a wholly owned retail subsidiary viz. Bank of Baroda (UK) Ltd. in UK.



7 / 15 Chemcon Speciality Chemicals | The companys shares will be listed on exchanges after finalising issue price at Rs 340 per share.



8 / 15 Computer Age Management Services | The company's shares will be listed on bourses. The Chennai-based company has raised Rs 2,244.3 crore at a price of Rs 1,230 per share from the issue.



9 / 15 Punjab National Bank | The state-run lender has reported a borrowal fraud of Rs 1,203.26 crore in the non-performing assets (NPA) account of Sintex Industries Ltd.



10 / 15 Lupin | The company has launched cancer drug Lapatinib tablets in the US.



11 / 15 Dhanlaxmi Bank | The shareholders of the bank have rejected the appointment of Sunil Gurbaxani as managing director and chief executive officer of the bank.



12 / 15 Infibeam Avenues | The company has divested its 51% stake in its wholly-owned subsidiary Infibeam Logistics Private Ltd to Osia Hypermart Retail for Rs 19 crore.



13 / 15 Shree Renuka Sugars | The company will be commencing operations at its port based refinery at Haldia (West Bengal) in the first half of October 2020, subject to receipt of all regulatory approvals. The Haldia refinery can refine up to 2000 tonnes of raw sugar per day. (Image: Reuters)



14 / 15 Sobha | The company has sold the entire contribution of 43.13 percent in CVS Techzone LLP.
Premier Doug Fords Progressive Conservatives are sticking it to their own controversial gas-pump decals that a court ruled were unconstitutional.

Fords cabinet decided late Wednesday against appealing a Sept. 4 Ontario Superior Court of Justice decision that found the mandatory stickers violated business owners freedom of expression.

Energy Minister Greg Rickfords office confirmed the government will abide by the ruling.

That means the blue decals that read the federal carbon tax will cost you are being consigned to the dustbin of history along with Fords double-blue licence plates withdrawn earlier this year.

Nearly four weeks ago, Mr. Justice Edward Morgan of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice issued a 17-page decision that jolted the provincial government.

In siding with the Canadian Civil Liberties Association, which had taken the Tories to court, Morgan blasted Fords administration for overreaching.

A government or political party can, in the words of Ontarios Minister of Energy stick it to another tier of government or political party as a matter of free speech in an election campaign or otherwise, he wrote.

But a government cannot legislate a requirement that private retailers post a sticker designed to accomplish that task. The mandatory fuel pump sticker is an unconstitutional attempt to do just that, the judge continued.

Morgans ruling, which concluded the decals featured inaccurate messaging, pounced upon Rickfords April 2019 comment that were going to stick it to the Liberals and remind the people of Ontario how much this job-killing regressive carbon tax costs.

Behind the scenes, some Tory ministers and MPPs had recommended the government give up the ghost.

No one is talking about the carbon tax. There are other things going on, a frustrated minister, speaking confidentially to discuss internal deliberations, told the Star recently.

NDP MPP Peter Tabuns (Toronto Danforth) also urged the Tories to abandon the stickers, which the court said were misleading because they do not mention that the federal carbon-pricing regimen included rebates.

Appealing this Superior Court decision would be another waste of money, another attack on Ontarios environment, and another attack on peoples constitutional rights, Tabuns said earlier this month.

The civil liberties association argued the stickers message was a form of compelled political expression.

Unveiled last year as part of the Tories $30 million crusade against the federal Liberal governments carbon-pricing regime, the decals have been fraught with problems.

There were adhesive issues that embarrassed and enraged Ford, whose family runs a label business, though their firm did not print the stickers. Some 25,000 were manufactured at a cost of $4,954.

The Tories initially threatened scofflaws with fines of up to $10,000 a day for not abiding by the law.

But that led the Ontario Chamber of Commerce to renounce them as an example of unnecessary red tape that could force private retailers out of business.

The Canadian Independent Petroleum Marketers Association, which represents gas stations, criticized the governments heavy-handed approach with decals the organization deemed a bit partisan.

Green Leader Mike Schreiner launched similar stickers that warned climate change would be far more costly than higher gasoline and natural gas prices.

Liberal Leader Steven Del Duca noted Ford ripped up a plan to combat (the) climate crisis and replaced it with nothing, but decals.

That was a reference to the premiers decision to withdraw Ontario from a cap-and-trade alliance with Quebec and California, which was generating $2 billion annually for environmental initiatives.

Robert Benzie is the Stars Queens Park bureau chief and a reporter covering Ontario politics. Follow him on Twitter: @robertbenzie

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Solvay, N.Y.  A New York state trooper has been arrested and accused of threatening a person while on duty, according to state police.

The officer, Nicholas J. Lotito, 38, of Syracuse, has been charged with second-degree menacing, a misdemeanor, police said in a news release Thursday. He has been suspended without pay, police said.

On Sept. 7, state police began investigating Lotito and a domestic incident that happened in July, police said. Lotito has been accused of threatening a victim with a taser at a residence in Solvay, according to police.

Lotito knew the victim, police said. Police did not identify the victim.

He has been released on an appearance ticket.

Lotito was paid $121,279 in 2019, according to See Through NY, an online database of public employees' salaries.

Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact Chris Libonati via the Signal app for encrypted messaging at 585-290-0718, by phone at the same number, by email or on Twitter.
Portland Commissioner Jo Ann Hardesty said Wednesday that she is no longer supporting Mayor Ted Wheelers bid for a second term and will not endorse anyone in the race.

Wheeler and Commissioner Chloe Eudaly were among the candidates Hardesty endorsed for the May 19 primary through her Rise Together political action committee. She announced Wednesday that she was sticking with Eudaly in the November runoff over former political science professor and ex-city employee Mingus Mapps, but later told The Oregonian/OregonLive that no one would have her support in the mayoral race.

Hardesty said she told Wheeler he has excelled in the citys response to the COVID-19 pandemic, done a decent job around reforms related to racial justice and failed miserably in relation to police accountability, particularly in the citys response to nightly protests.

He just regurgitates the exact talking points that the police (public information officer) puts out, Hardesty told The Oregonian/OregonLive. "He and I have had many conversations, both publicly and privately about that.

I still have a lot of respect and love working with Ted, she said. But because of his non-response around the police violence that has been happening, I just cannot in good conscience support him.

Wheeler is also the citys police commissioner. Hardesty has asked several times in recent months for him to put the Police Bureau under her oversight and he has refused. His runoff opponent, urban policy consultant Sarah Iannarone, has said she would put Hardesty in charge of the Police Bureau, if elected.

Hardesty said Wednesday that she didnt feel strongly enough about Iannarone, or the write-in campaign of community activist Teressa Raiford to publicly endorse either of them.

With Sarah, I dont know her well enough to know if changing leadership at this critical time in Portlands history would be good or bad for the city, Hardesty said. I like her as a person, but I dont know her policy chops and whether or not shes going to be able to galvanize the city to come together to do the hard work we have ahead.

Hardesty is the only member of the five-person city council this year whose seat isnt contested. Commissioner Amanda Fritz, who isnt seeking reelection after being in office since 2009, hasnt publicly endorsed anyone for any council race.

In her endorsement of a second-term for Eudaly on Wednesday, Hardesty said in a statement that she felt their values aligned the closest.

Chloe has been a passionate and effective advocate for renters and affordable housing, the statement said. She passed a first-of-its-kind tenant relocation ordinance and sped up our public transit through the creation of the Rose Lanes. As we look to the future, Portland will need more advocates for those on the margins.

The election is Nov. 3.

-- Everton Bailey Jr.

ebailey@oregonian.com | 503-221-8343 |@EvertonBailey

Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox.
The BELCO wet gas scrubber in operation at the Omsk Oil Refinery in Siberia, Russia "This is an exclusively environmental protection project that supports our high standards of environmental safety, said Oleg Belyavsky, General Director of the Omsk Refinery.

The Gazpromneft Omsk Oil Refinery (Omsk) in Siberia, Russia has significantly lowered its air emissions using BELCO wet scrubbing technology licensed by DuPont Clean Technologies (DuPont). With an installed capacity of 22.23 million tons of oil per year, the Omsk Oil Refinery is one of Russias leading oil refineries. The BELCO wet scrubbing technology was installed at Omsk during a Fluidized Catalytic Cracking Unit (FCCU) revamp and efficiently removes process impurities from the flue gas emitted by the FCCU thus reducing air emissions well below detection limits.

The introduction of the BELCO wet scrubbing technology was an important part of a large-scale modernization project that Gazpromneft began at the Omsk refinery in 2008. One of the aims of the project was to systematically introduce technologies that reduce the refinerys environmental impact. This included treating the FCCU flue gases with the BELCO scrubber to intensely clean them of atmospheric pollution. The BELCO technology design allowed the Omsk Oil Refinery also to solve a challenging installation and plot space problem for the gas cleaning section. Thanks to the unique scrubber design, which is contained in a single upflow tower, the refinery was able to simply dismantle a pre-existing 70m tall, brick flue stack and install the scrubber on the previous chimney foundations. This was key for the site as the plot space for the unit at the refinery is very tight.

The BELCO scrubber uses a unique, proprietary design consisting of a water spray tower equipped with a filtering module and droplet separators. Larger particulate and SO2 are removed in the spray tower, and fine particulate is removed in the filtering module section, so that only cleaned flue gas leaves the tower. The process is fully automated, and the new custom-designed scrubber system comes with built-in control analyzers that allow for constant online monitoring.

For many of our customers, environmental stewardship is a priority, said Yves Herssens, EMEA Business Development Manager. They want to limit emissions but need efficient systems that enable them to achieve their goal reliably, consistently and quickly. The BELCO wet scrubber is an extremely robust technology that will allow the Omsk Oil Refinery to achieve its goal of reducing air emissions in line with Russias Project Ecology with minimum maintenance over the next few decades. It is part of the emissions control solutions that we offer the refining industry which also include DynaWave wet scrubbing technology, STRATCO alkylation technology and IsoTherming hydroprocessing technology.

For the Omsk Oil Refinery, ecology is an absolute priority. The company systematically introduces technologies that reduce the impact on the environment. The Omsk Refinery was one of the first refineries in Russia to use this state-of-the-art fluid catalytic cracking regenerator flue gas cleaning technology. This is an exclusively environmental protection project that supports our high standards of environmental safety, said Oleg Belyavsky, General Director of the Omsk Refinery.

BELCO wet scrubbing technology is the global standard for limiting flue gas emissions from FCCUs, fluid cokers, fired heaters and boilers. The BELCO wet scrubbing system reliably controls particulate, SOx and NOx emissions in a single upflow tower, thereby eliminating the need for a separate control device to manage different emissions. With its unique open-vessel design and non-plugging features, the BELCO wet scrubbing system is extremely robust and proven to support uninterrupted FCCU operation, with units typically working continuously for 3-7 years without any maintenance or service shutdowns. The BELCO wet scrubbing system is engineered to handle severe upset conditions including high-particulate carry over and high-temperature excursions.

For further information on DuPont Clean Technologies and the BELCO wet scrubbing technology, please visit http://www.cleantechnologies.dupont.com.

About DuPont Clean Technologies

The Clean Technologies division of DuPont is a global leader in process technology licensing & engineering, with an unwavering commitment to customer support. We provide extensive global expertise across our portfolio of offerings in key applications - MECS sulfuric acid production, STRATCO alkylation, BELCO wet scrubbing and IsoTherming hydroprocessing. Offering critical process equipment, products, technology and services, we enable an array of industrial markets, including phosphate fertilizer, non-ferrous metals, oil refining, petrochemicals and chemicals, to minimize their environmental impact and optimize productivity. We are dedicated to helping our customers produce high-quality products used in everyday life in the safest, most environmentally-sound way possible, with a vision to make the world a better place by creating clean alternatives to traditional industrial processes. We make everyday life better, safer, cleaner. http://www.cleantechnologies.dupont.com

About DuPont

DuPont (NYSE: DD) is a global innovation leader with technology-based materials, ingredients and solutions that help transform industries and everyday life. Our employees apply diverse science and expertise to help customers advance their best ideas and deliver essential innovations in key markets including electronics, transportation, construction, water, health and wellness, food and worker safety. More information can be found at http://www.dupont.com.

# # #

10/01/2020

DuPont, the DuPont Oval Logo, and all products, unless otherwise noted, denoted with , or  are trademarks, service marks or registered trademarks of affiliates of DuPont de Nemours, Inc.
Champion jockey Oisin Murphy is facing a six-month ban after testing positive for cocaine when riding in France in July.

The news left racing in shock. Murphy, 25, who landed his first jockeys' championship last year, has quickly risen through the ranks and become the natural successor to Frankie Dettori as the face of British Flat racing with his engaging personality.

Murphy, who is on course to retain his title, vowed to clear his name and has undertaken hair sampling in a bid to prove his innocence.

Oisin Murphy could face a six-month ban from racing after failing a drugs test for cocaine

But under the strict liability rules which operate in France, if the results of Murphy's B sample also returns positive  the result is understood to be due next week  the rider looks likely to join two other British champion jockeys, Frankie Dettori and Kieren Fallon, in picking up cocaine-related bans while riding across the Channel.

Murphy, who was riding at Chelmsford on Thursday night and has six mounts at Ascot this afternoon, said: 'The results came back a month after the test. I couldn't believe it so had a hair sample done. That has come back completely negative but the B sample hasn't been tested yet.

'Until that has been tested I don't know where I stand. I hope it is negative. I have never taken cocaine in my life and I will do everything that I can to prove that I have not taken cocaine.

Murphy, pictured riding at Newmarket last weekend, failed the test in France in July

'I have known about this for a month but it has been a slow process. I will keep my head down and keep riding. I want to thank those who are supporting me and in the meantime I want to keep riding winners and focus on my career. I will have no further comment to make and wish to respect the processes of France Galop.'

Murphy gave a urine test when having three rides at Chantilly on July 19. He was told his A sample had tested positive to a metabolite of cocaine on August 19 by France Galop. Samples of his hair taken on August 22 have tested negative for cocaine.

However, unless the B sample is negative, the hair tests will only serve to try to rescue Murphy's reputation.

Top jockey Murphy celebrates after winning on 'Alcohol Free' at Newmarket last weekend

Last year fellow jockey Robbie Downey protested his innocence after a positive cocaine test in France and produced negative results from his hair samples but France Galop still imposed a six-month ban with the Professional Jockeys Association claiming Downey was the subject of a miscarriage of justice.

The PJA claim French testing is more susceptible to contamination and unreliable results because threshold testing levels for cocaine are lower than in Britain.

Murphy is first jockey to Qatar Racing, the successful operation of Sheik Fahad Al Thani and his brothers. It is understood they are standing by their rider, who gave them a first win in the 2,000 Guineas when successful on Kameko in June.

The Flat season concludes on November 6 and it is unlikely, should his B sample test positive, that any hearing in France will take place until after that date.

But a ban could cost him lucrative riding opportunities overseas this winter and could also mean he misses the start of the 2021 domestic season.

Frankie Dettori is another jockey who has previously be handed a drugs ban after a failed test
SACRAMENTO  Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed a bill Wednesday that would have required all high school students in California to take an ethnic studies course to graduate  a move he said was driven by concerns that the draft curriculum was biased.

The governors veto was one of his sharpest splits with Democratic legislators this session. The bills sponsor accused the governor of not standing up to what he called President Trumps racial rhetoric.

Newsom announced the veto less than four hours before a midnight deadline to act on bills passed during the 2020 session. AB331 would have added a one-semester ethnic studies course to the states high school graduation requirement, starting with the 2029-30 academic year.

The governors veto message focused on a year-long dispute over Californias Ethnic Studies Model Curriculum, the manual on which the course would be based.

The draft curriculum was recently revised and had won the support of many legislators. Newsom, however, said the latest draft still needs revision to ensure it is balanced.

More for you CSU approves ethnic studies, social justice course requirement

Newsom said he has directed state education officials to ensure that the next draft curriculum achieves balance, fairness and is inclusive of all communities.

Assemblyman Jose Medina, the Riverside Democrat who carried the bill, called Newsoms veto a failure to push back against the racial rhetoric and bullying of Donald Trump.

As civil unrest and racial tension have risen across the nation, California has marketed itself as a progressive beacon working to overcome its past transgressions and chart an equitable future, Medina said in a statement.

Supporters of the bill said the police killing of George Floyd and subsequent protests over racial inequality showed that students in high school need a deeper understanding of race.

Medina said learning about the countrys history of racial inequity would empower students of color and create more culturally competent citizens.

Medina shelved the bill last year because of a backlash over a draft of the ethnic studies model curriculum. Controversy appeared to have dwindled after the California Department of Education released the new draft in July.

However, the draft still had critics, who said was politically charged and excluded some historically marginalized ethnic and religious groups, such as Armenians and Muslims.

Still, the latest version eased many legislators concerns. The Legislature passed the bill after Medina agreed to delay the graduation requirement by four years beyond the original target of the 2024-25 academic year.

The revised curriculum encouraged teachers to add lessons that emphasize the history of ethnic groups in their community. But it kept the focus on four groups that ethnic studies courses traditionally emphasize: African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, and Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.

Dustin Gardiner is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: dustin.gardiner@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @dustingardiner
Jaipur, Oct 1 : In a major relief to lakhs of parents in the state, the Rajasthan High Court on Thursday stayed the order issued by a single judge directing schools to collect 70 per cent tuition fees from the parents of the students.

A division bench of the Rajasthan High Court comprising Chief Justice Inderjit Mahanti and Justice Mahendra Goyal also barred the private schools from collecting any kind of fees till October 9.

The court was hearing a plea filed by advocate Sunil Samadaria. The next hearing is slated for Monday.

The state government, which is also a party in the appeal, said that the single bench's decision to collect 70 per cent tuition fees from the parents was baseless and had no grounds.

As per the appellants, the management of the private schools fixed the tuition fees in violation of the RTE Act, flouting all norms of fee regulations.

The appellants argued that the private schools did not give details to the court of the amount they had spent in schools during the Covid-19 pandemic. Therefore, the order of the single bench should be quashed.

Additional Advocate General Rajesh Maharshi, who appeared on behalf of the government, said that with Thursday's order, no school can now collect fees from the parents.

It may be recalled that a single bench of the high court had issued an interim order on September 7 that schools can collect 70 per cent tuition fees in three instalments. It was hearing the petitions submitted by the Society of Catholic Education Institutions in Rajasthan, the Progressive School Association and others.
FORT WORTH, Texas - The Fort Worth Police Department on Thursday fired a veteran officer for posting a racially insensitive meme on Facebook that drew wide public criticism last month, police said in a statement.

Officer Roger Ballard was given a indefinite suspension, which a spokesman described as equivalent to termination, for violating the departments general orders, according to the statement. It said that after hearing about the post on Sept. 20, Internal Affairs quickly began an investigation and concluded that Officer Roger Ballard was responsible for posting the racially insensitive meme containing a photo which led to numerous complaints and public outrage.

Internal affairs investigators are also looking into a second officers involvement.

Ballard worked as a patrol officer on the day shift and had been with the department since 2002, said Officer Buddy Calzada. He declined to describe Ballards Facebook post or say whether the officer is appealing his firing.

The meme showed a photo of a Black man in a casket accompanied by the text, The face you make when you dont understand Stop resisting, according to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. The paper cites screenshots of the post on a personal Facebook page that has since been deactivated.

The Fort Worth Police Officers Association did not immediately respond to a request for comment. It was not immediately clear if Ballard has an attorney.
LANSING, MI - In 2018, it was determined that more than 500,000 Michigan residents lacked broadband internet access.

The FCC estimated 5.74 percent of Michigans population - 573,426 people - had no broadband providers in their area, and only 62.32 percent have more than one option for high-speed internet.

In an effort to help fill those gaps, the state legislature has approved a grant program for private projects to fill internet access gaps for those underserved communities. However, educational institutions and local governments are not able to apply for the funding.

Related: Lack of high-speed internet leaves rural communities behind

The Senate approved the Broadband Expansion Act of Michigan Grant Program by a 36-1 vote Thursday, Oct. 1. The House approved the bill 96-9 last Thursday, Sep. 24.

House Bill 4288, sponsored by Rep. Michele Hoitenga, R-Manton, requires the Department of Technology, Management and Budget to establish a grant program for projects that extend broadband service using the recently-approved $14.3 million from the Fiscal Year 2021 budget.

Read more: Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signs $62.8B state budget

Once the DTMB receives the $14.3 million, it would have 60 days to implement the program. The grants are meant for private projects to boost broadband capacity in unserved areas," but cant be used by governmental entities or educational institutions. The grant limit for any single project is $5 million.

Unserved is defined as a census block lacking broadband access from at least one internet service provider. Projects applying for the money cant already have plans in place for service providers to install internet in the next three years.

The grant application process would create a competitive environment akin to a free market, according to analysis by the House Fiscal Agency. Applications will be considered by criteria such as the experience and financial resources of the applicant, the long-term effectiveness and reach of the project, the ability to use broadband for community and economic development and plans to discount internet service for low-income households.

State Sen. Mallory McMorrow, D-Royal Oak, offered an amendment before the vote to include school districts and local governments in the grant application process.

Especially when were talking about the future of a truly free-market system (for receiving these grants), I should hope that we would make these dollars available for anybody to compete for them, whether its a private company, local municipalities and educational opportunities to ensure every resident in the state of Michigan is granted the necessity that is broadband access," she said on the Senate floor.

Related: Shaky internet access across Michigan poses problems for online schooling

According to a statewide survey conducted in mid-April by the Michigan Association of Intermediate School Administrators, 29.3 percent of Michigan students statewide did not have access to a device at home to use for schoolwork. An estimated 27.1 percent of students did not have access to internet that could support some form of virtual learning.

Hoitenga sponsored a bill in 2017 that required government entities to contract with private companies to receive federal, state or local funds to install high-speed internet. House Bill 4288 does not allow DTMB to directly or indirectly award grant money to educational institutions or local governments, the House Fiscal Agency said.

The bill is tied to House Bill 4268, which would exempt broadband equipment purchased to resolve internet access issues from personal property taxes typically levied on business tools. That bill was referred to the Committee on Communications and Technology in March 2019 and has not moved since then.

After approval in the Senate on Thursday, the grant bill will be sent to Gov. Gretchen Whitmers desk for consideration.
Metropolitan Police Sergeant Matt Ratana fought for two hours before dying from a gunshot wound to the chest after being fired upon 'several times' by a suspect in handcuffs inside a police station, a coroner was told today.

The 54-year-old was shot as he was preparing to search a handcuffed suspect who had managed to smuggle a revolver into the custody suite in Croydon, south London on September 25.

Sgt Ratana was taken to hospital after the shooting at 2.15am last Friday but wasn't pronounced dead until 4.20am.

Police are yet to speak to the alleged gunman, widely named as Louis De Zoysa, 23, who is in a critical condition in hospital after he shot himself as he opened fire. He was not named at the inquest hearing.

Detective Superintendent Nick Blackburn said the weapon was discharged 'several times'.

Sgt. Ratana receiving a long and good service medal from the Commissioner Cressida Dick on May 31 2017. The 54-year-old was shot as he was preparing to search a handcuffed suspect who had managed to smuggle a revolver into the custody suite

Media are seen outside Croydon coroner's court ahead of the opening of the inquest in to the death of Sergeant Matiu Ratana on October 1 in Croydon

A revolver was later recovered from the scene.

He told the inquest the suspect was first detained by police in Pollards Hill in south London at 1.30am.

The suspect was handcuffed and taken into custody on suspicion of the possession of ammunition and a class B drug.

He said: 'Upon arrival (at Croydon custody centre), he (the suspect) was taken to a holding room where he remained in handcuffs.

'The custody sergeant, Matt Ratana, entered the holding room.

'The suspect discharged the weapon several times, during which the sergeant and the suspect were injured.'

Police officers are seen outside Croydon coroner's court ahead of the opening of the inquest in to the death of Sergeant Matiu Ratana. The suspect was handcuffed and taken into custody on suspicion of the possession of ammunition and a class B drug

The inquest heard Mr Ratana was taken to St George's Hospital in Tooting but he was pronounced dead at 4.20am.

Mr Blackman said the preliminary cause of death given following the post-mortem examination was a gunshot wound to the chest.

No members of Mr Ratana's family, including his partner Su Bushby, were present for the hearing. Mr Ratana's son in Australia wanted to listen in remotely but the technology failed.

Sarah Ormond-Walshe, senior coroner for south London, adjourned the hearing until a further date.

The Metropolitan Police officer of almost 30 years has been described as someone who epitomised the role police play in protecting others and, as head coach at East Grinstead Rugby Club, was said to be an 'irreplaceable figure'.

Sergeant Matt Ratana was shot dead in a London police station by a handcuffed suspect

Sue Bushby, Mr Ratana's partner, paid tribute to her 'friend, confidant, support and soul mate' in a statement released last month.

She said: 'There aren't really any words for how I am feeling right now about the loss of Matt; about losing someone I loved, and was so close to, in such a tragic manner.

'I know Matt touched many, many people's lives with his friendliness, patience, kindness, enthusiasm and caring ways.

'I had the pleasure of sharing five years of my life with this lovely man - my gentle giant, with his infectious smile and big heart. I think of him with tenderness and love.'

Today Met Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick hosted New Zealand High Commissioner to London Bede Corry in an emotional visit to lay a wreath at the scene in memory of the police officer and countryman.

Police said on Tuesday that investigators have been unable to speak to De Zoysa who remains in hospital in a critical condition.

Officers have been searching several areas including derelict buildings and 30 acres of land in Banstead, Surrey, and an address believed to be the suspect's family home in Norbury, southwest London.

Specialist detectives are leading the inquiry which police say is not a counter terrorism investigation.

Dame Cressida, Home Secretary Priti Patel and London Mayor Sadiq Khan attend the National Police Memorial in London shortly after Ratana's death

A second person was arrested on suspicion of supplying a firearm and bailed pending further enquiries to a date in late October.

In a statement released on Tuesday, DAC Stuart Cundy said: 'The murder of Sgt Ratana sent shockwaves through the Metropolitan Police Service. Nevertheless his colleagues are determined to find justice for him and his family.'

He is the eighth officer to be shot dead in Britain over the last 20-years.

How a suspect managed to smuggle in a firearm is now the focus for an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

The IOPC has obtained CCTV footage from the custody centre and body-worn camera footage from the officers who were present during the shooting.

The man accused of shooting him was referred to the governments Prevent programme, aimed at stopping people joining extremist groups and carrying out terrorist activities.

However, police have stressed that the investigation into Sgt Ratanas death is currently a murder probe and not a counter-terrorism one.

De Zoysa was described as a 'maths geek' who was 'good with weapons' and could have gone to Oxbridge' by former friends writing in a yearbook for the John Fisher School, a 1000 pupil Roman Catholic boys comprehensive in Purley, South London.

He attended the school between 2008 and 2015.

Police are continuing to sift through the end-terrace home in Norbury he is believed to have lived in with his mother Elizabeth, a translator who ran as a Green candidate in local elections, and his Sri Lankan father Channa, a former yoga teacher said to be passionate about recycling who repairs bicycles for free.

The Catholic couple, who run an events company, have five children and neighbours said police were often seen at the address.

The family home is one of two sites being investigated. The other is a farm in Banstead, Surrey.

The 56-acre Courtlands Farm was an ammunitions dump in the Second World War which has a number of outbuildings as well as a farmhouse and adjoining bungalow.

A second suspect arrested in Norwich in Norfolk on Sunday on suspicion of supplying a firearm has been granted bail pending further enquiries.

He had been taken to a South London police station for questioning and has been bailed to a date later this month.
White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows revealed on Wednesday the amount of the new stimulus package that Trump's administration offered.

The White House and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi almost reached a deal. Both negotiators agreed to send stimulus checks, PPP loans, and other relief measures. However, they did not come up with significant progress as both want to find more common ground.

White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows said on Wednesday that the White House offers more than $1.5 trillion total stimulus package. The proposal includes a $20 billion relief fund to the airline industry to save thousands of jobs that continues to experience economic fallout.

Meadows told the reporters aboard Air Force One "There's $20 billion in the most recent proposal for the airlines that would give them a six-month extension," He also noted that they included the airline industry because of their urgent need for financial aid.

The American Airlines AAL.O and United Airlines UAL.O, two of the largest U.S. carriers, already said that they were beginning furloughs over 32,000 employees as the hope for financial aid faded. This is after the two camps, White House and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi did not reach a deal.

The airline industry has been asking for another $25 billion financial aid to Congress. The said amount will help the industry to protect jobs for a further six months. Additionally, the amount requested was also included in the previous proposal of the bipartisan group, Problem Solvers Caucus.

Meanwhile, Mark Meadows did not give many details about the new proposal. However, the amount that the White House offered is the same amount the Problem Solvers Caucus offered recently which House Speaker Nancy Pelosi rejected.

The White House or Trump's administration has already offered over $1.5 trillion on Wednesday, but Pelosi still insisted on $2.2 trillion. Trump has increased the amount he offered to Democrats, but it seems that Pelosi once again is playing politics.

Meadows asserted "White House's latest proposal but said the figure is certainly above the $1.5 trillion that has been articulated to date," Yet Pelosi is not happy for the proposed stimulus. This, again created tension in the Democratic-dominated Congress.

The House of Congress is set to vote on the following aid the negotiation between the White House and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi:

Another round of $1,200 stimulus checks.

Federal enhanced unemployment benefits of $600 per week.

Additional funding for the Paycheck Protection Program for small business relief.

Billions of dollars for K-12 schools, postsecondary schools, and childcare.

$75 billion for public health initiatives including coronavirus testing.

Economic relief for states and cities.

An extension of the suspension of student loan payments, interest, and collections to September 2021, and an expansion of that suspension to all federal student loans, including those issued by commercial lending entities.

Members of the Democratic party in the House of Congress are anxious to vote in any form of the stimulus package. They do not want that to go home and have a campaign without bringing good news to the voters.

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Pure Telecom has signed a deal with BT Ireland worth 10 million. The agreement gives Pure Telecom access to SIROS nationwide high-speed fibre broadband network, consisting of 338,000 premises across Ireland to date.

Under the deal, BT will provide Pure Telecom with a comprehensive managed service that helps bring its ultrafast broadband Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) product offering to the market. The service will be made available nationwide, at every location where there are FTTP services are available.

The infrastructure agreement will help Pure Telecom to solidify its position as a major competitor in the Irish broadband market by driving down costs for consumers. The company has experienced a 30% increase in demand for its broadband services since the outbreak of COVID-19, and widespread increase in remote working.

Commenting on the multimillion euro deal, CEO for Pure Telecom, Paul Connell, CEO, said: We have observed a significant increase in demand for our services since COVID-19 restrictions were introduced and we expect these to have a permanent impact on how people work and where. It has therefore never been more important for people to have the high-speed connectivity they need to work productively from their homes."

He added: By partnering with BT, we will be one of the first providers to offer high-speed broadband to Irish towns and villages who previously didnt have access. SIRO has been very proactive in its rollout of 100% fibre-optic technology and we look forward to being able to offer it to even more customers.

The SIRO Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) network covers more than 338,000 homes and businesses in 45 towns around Ireland. Because FTTH technology has no copper connection (which can cause congestion and slow speeds) it delivers a 1 Gigabit (1,000 Megabit) internet connection which can take care of anyones remote working and personal needs. As a result, there is no impact on the quality of service if a household has multiple devices in use at one time with data intensive services like video conferencing or streaming content.

Director of Wholesale at BT Ireland, Peter Evans, said: In the wake of COVID-19, as people have come to depend more on technology to communicate than ever before, its important that consumers and businesses have a wide range of services to choose from that best suit their needs.

Source: www.businessworld.ie
Our team worked with the Company to structure a creative and flexible facility that provided liquidity so the management team could focus on growth.

When a Californian privately owned digital print and marketing solutions company sought funding for their future business plans, they partnered with Republic Business Credit. The company brought on Republic as their first senior debt provider to better leverage the invested capital from the founders. Republic approved a flexible, scalable and growth-orientated working capital facility to exceed its goals amidst the market conditions caused by Covid-19. The company was seeking to partner with a senior lender that understood the opportunities and risks inherent in its business.

The company is a digital print and marketing solutions company that supports large and medium-sized companies throughout the US. The company specializes in providing print-on-demand, short-run publications, commercial printing, packaging, large format signage, direct mail, fulfilment, and self-publishing solutions with locations in the West and Rocky Mountain regions. The company wanted to bring on a senior debtor provider to ensure they could support the surge in purchase orders combined with supporting the inevitable supply chain and working capital issues that precede growth. The company CFO said, We wanted to find a senior debt partner during the pandemic so that we had the comfort they would support us over the next few years no matter what the economy may bring, and she further added, We know that Republic can help us through the least certain times and that will better prepare our business to seek new revenue and product opportunities.

Republic Business Credit provided a $2.0 million ledgered line of credit facility that injected significant new cash into the company from its available assets. Republic was introduced to the opportunity from the regional bank that was unable to underwrite the credit during the current pandemic. Republics EVP, Jason Carmona, said, We are well-positioned to help companies across the balance sheet through both asset-based lending and factoring, he further added about the company, Our team worked with the Company to structure a creative and flexible facility that provided liquidity so the management team could focus on growth. Republic will likely add on an equipment term loan facility in 2021 as the company views significant growth on the horizon.

Republic Business Credit partners with banks, accountants, sponsors, lawyers and investment banks to collaboratively support entrepreneurs across the United States, to create value, by enabling them to focus on growing successful businesses. Republics CEO, Stewart Chesters added, We believe our suite of lending products will be even more necessary as states reopen. We look forward to being a significant part of helping small and medium-sized businesses with the ambitions of our new Printing client. Republic Business Credit provides factoring, asset-based lending and direct to consumer facilities up to $10,000,000 across the United States.

Republic Business Credit provides fast and flexible working capital solutions to help rapidly growing businesses, start-ups, and companies in turnaround or recoverable distressed situations. Winner of the Emerging Growth Company of the Year award from the Louisiana Chapter of the ACG, and the FactoringClubs Best Factoring Company Award for 2018, the Republic Business Credit team has the expertise necessary to meet the nuanced financial needs of companies across a wide variety of industries. It provides asset-based loans, ledgered lines of credit, non-recourse factoring, factoring and direct to consumer loans including e-commerce working capital. Since its founding in 2011, Republic Business Credit has provided over $10 billion in working capital.
A new study has linked more men dying of Covid-19 globally than women to the ability of SARS-CoV-2 in depleting testosterone levels in the body.

Initially the lower testosterone levels in the Covid-19 patients were associated with poor health condition, however a new study shows that it may be viral infection that is causing the level of male sex hormone to decrease, a report in The Print said.

For the first time, our data suggest that Covid-19 might deteriorate serum testosterone level in SARS-CoV-2 infected male patients. Low serum total testosterone level at baseline has a significant increased risk for the ICU and mortality in patients with Covid-19, researchers from University of Mersin, and the Mersin City Education and Research Hospital in Turkey, reported in The Aging Male journal.

Testosterone is the male sex hormone and decreases on an average by 0.8-2 percent a year after 40 years. The fact could be comprehended behind the outcome of coronavirus in older patients.

The study published earlier this month selected a sample of 438 patients, and 232 of them were men. Future studies related to testosterone treatment in this population would discover possible improvement in clinical outcomes with the testosterone treatment in SARS-CoV-2 infected hypogonadal male patients, the study added.

Testosterone is associated with the immune system of respiratory organs, and low levels of testosterone might increase the risk of respiratory infections, says Selahittin Cayan, professor of urology, who contributed to the study.

Low testosterone is also associated with infection-related hospitalisation and all-cause mortality in male in ICU patients. So testosterone treatment may also have benefits beyond improving outcomes for Covid-19, the professor added.

In India, the deaths among Covid-19 patients have mostly been among men, with reports indicating it at 69 per cent. It also noted that the severity of the Covid-19 was higher when the testosterone decreased. It noted that the testosterone level in the ICU patient were lower that the patients in the intermediate ICU level.
Muzaffarnagar:

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav on Thursday said the BJP-led NDA government at the Centre has failed to fulfil its promise of achche din in the Budget.

Addressing an election rally in Muzaffarnagar, he said the Narendra Modi governments decision of demonetisation of high value Rs 1000/500 currency notes has affected the people from all section of the society, and also damaged the financial condition of the country.

The BJP government at the Centre has failed to fulfil the promise and the people are facing bure din (bad days) instead of achche din, he said.

About the electoral alliance between Samajwadi Party and Congress, he said SPs cycle (party symbol) will now gain momentum and alliance would get more than 300 seats in the Assembly polls.

Akhilesh also addressed poll rallies in Khatuli, Budhana and Kairana and made an appealed to support the alliance candidates for development of Uttar Pradesh.

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U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin speaks during a news conference at the U.S. State Department in Washington on Sept. 21, 2020. (Patrick Semansky/Pool via Reuters)

Mnuchin Says Relief Bill Will Include Stimulus Checks to American Families

U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said Wednesday that, while theres still no agreement between White House and Democrat negotiators on the final shape of the next CCP virus relief package, it will contain another round of stimulus checks to American families.

The good news is that we have reached agreement that if there is a deal, there are payments similar to last time that are in the package, Mnuchin told Fox Newss Lou Dobbs, when asked if the much-anticipated fifth stimulus bill would contain direct payments like the $1,200 stimulus checks that were part of the CARES Act.

In addition to agreeing on another round of direct relief to families and individuals, Mnuchin said the sides see eye-to-eye on more funds for the popular Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for small businesses, more aid to airlines, funding for schools so they can safely reopen, and money for testing and vaccines.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and Mnuchin met for the first time in weeks after talks between the two parties hit a snag. The most contentious issue was the Democrat demand for nearly $1 trillion in federal funding to states and cities. Before talks between Pelosi and Mnuchin resumed, the White House said Trump could agree to a $1.3 trillion bill.

Asked about the price tag of the overall package and if theres a median number here that is magical here in terms of reaching agreement, Mnuchin said President Donald Trump instructed him and White House chief of staff Mark Meadows to come up significantly from the $1 trillion deal they had been working on. He added that the president would like to do a deal thats a fair deal and something that can help the American public right now.

He said a $2.2 trillion deal, which is what Pelosi has come down to after initially pushing a $3.4 trillion package, is still too high.

If theres a fair compromise, were prepared to do it, Mnuchin said, adding that the figure is in the neighborhood of $1.5 trillion.

Both Pelosi and Mnuchin sounded more optimistic about the prospect of coming to an agreement, coming after House Democrats offered a $2.2 trillion update to the HEROES Act, which was passed in May.

Pelosi, in a statement Wednesday, said the two sides will continue discussions as they try to come up with a package that could pass in the House and Senate.

Today, Secretary Mnuchin and I had an extensive conversation and we found areas where we are seeking further clarification. Our conversations will continue, Pelosi said, adding that Democrats would vote on their updated HEROES Act in order to formalize our proffer to Republicans in the negotiations to address the health and economic catastrophe in our country.

House Democratic Conference Chairman Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) told reporters that updated the bill would show the Democratic caucuss vision on whats right legislatively at this moment.

The updated HEROES Act would include $600-per-week unemployment benefits, stimulus payments, small business loans, and other measures.

Reuters contributed to this report.
A photojournalist with The Punch newspaper, Olukayode Jaiyeola, was on Thursday brutalised by men of the Lagos State Police command while covering the October 1 protest at the Maryland area of the state.

The journalist was hit on the head by armed officers during the protest.

Not fewer than 30 protesters were also arrested by the police.

Scores of RevolutionNow protesters took to the streets of Lagos on Thursday to express their displeasure with the present state of the country.

The protest took off at Ojota, and the protesters headed to Maryland to continue the protest.

The Coalition for Revolution (CORE) had earlier said that #RevolutionNow would hold despite police statement banning rallies and protests as Nigeria celebrates Independence.

Speaking at the press conference, Gbenga Komolafe, the Co-convener of CORE, said they were not afraid of the police and the protest would hold against all odds.

Since 1960, we have been subjected to an endless cycle of civilian and military rulers whose perception of public service is to kill, steal and destroy the aspiration of all Nigerians for good education, modern healthcare systems that confidently explore and utilize indigenous knowledge of physical and mental well being of the people and provide opportunities for the flowering of all the indices of a fair, ecologically balanced, technologically driven and sustainable nation.

It is in this vein that the Coalition for Revolution (CORE) has evolved to raise fundamental and foundational issues about the needless suffering of our people, the exponential increase in the number of extreme poor people to over 100 million people today, the shambolic, degraded and run-down condition of healthcare and education infrastructures without basic facilities, the group said in a statement.

The group also called on Nigerias president, Muhammadu Buhari, to resign from office and all service chiefs in the country sacked.

The group said that it is determined to put an end to the  dictatorial  style of the present governed which has brought untold hardship to Nigerians and stifled freedom of speech, activism and freedom to associate in Nigeria.
New Delhi, Oct 1 : In the second major service outage hitting Microsoft in less than a week, Outlook online users worldwide on Thursday reported facing problems accessing the service.

Microsoft has confirmed the outage after its initial investigation indicated that its India-based users were the primarily impacted audience.

"We've collected additional data from the affected infrastructures to determine impact to our Exchange online protocols. Additionally, we've identified this issue to be affecting users worldwide. Further details can be found in your admin centre under EX223208," says Microsoft's 365 status Twitter account.

The worst impacted regions include the UK, France, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Norway, Sweden, besides India, according to Downdetector which offers real-time status and outage information.

This new incident comes after a major outage that impacted several Microsoft 365 services, including Outlook, Office 365 and Teams earlier this week.

Microsoft blamed a software code issue for the incident.

The affected services included Outlook.com, Office.com, Power Platform, Dynamics365, and Microsoft Teams including Teams Live Event.
The transporting officers were still at the jail when Jennings pulled out the handgun, which prompted a call for help that caused officers citywide to swarm downtown.

Officers knew jail personnel could be vulnerable because they don't carry guns, though they do have other means of protection.

Jennings threatened jail personnel and then took refuge in a dressing room and shot himself, according to the Sheriff's Office.

He survived the shooting and was in critical condition Monday evening at the Nebraska Medical Center.

Footage filmed by officer-worn body cameras shows officers responding to the incident from the booking area where detainees are processed. The shooting occurred in another room away from the officer's view and was not captured on the officer's camera, Thomas said.

Corrections Director Mike Myers and Douglas County Sheriff's Capt. Eric Sellers said at a Monday afternoon press conference that some staff were shaken by the incident.

"It's unfortunate that the individual chose to make the decision he made, to injure himself, but we are beyond blessed no one else was injured," Myers said.
Yerevan: Armenia's military said its rockets shot down an Azerbaijani drone near the capital on Thursday night, local time, as heavy fighting persisted in the conflict over the separatist region of Nagorno-Karabakh.

This week's fighting is the biggest escalation in years in the decades-long dispute over the region, which is inside Azerbaijan but controlled by local ethnic Armenian forces backed by Armenia.

An explosion of a downed Azerbaijani drone in the separatist region of Nagorno-Karabakh, Azerbaijan in 2016. Credit:AP

Two French and two Armenian journalists were injured on Thursday in the fighting.

Late on Thursday, Armenia fired anti-aircraft missiles that took down a drone over the town of Abovian, about 16 kilometers north of the capital of Yerevan, said defence ministry spokeswoman Shushan Stepanian. No casualties were reported.
President Donald Trump continued to lash out at debate moderator Chris Wallace, the host of 'Fox News Sunday'

'I was debating two people last night,' Trump said of Democrat Joe Biden and Wallace

The president made the complaints during his Wednesday night campaign rally in Duluth, Minnesota

President Donald Trump continued to lash out at debate moderator Chris Wallace during his rally Wednesday night in Duluth, Minnesota.

'I was debating two people last night,' Trump said, pointing fingers at his Democratic rival Joe Biden and Wallace, the host of 'Fox News Sunday. 'I'm so disappointed in Fox,' Trump uttered.

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Wallace has called the evening a 'terrible missed opportunity' after he was unable to control Trump's constant interruptions which have prompted the organisers at the Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD) to look into muting the president.

But the president has complained about Wallace not allowing him to land a glove on Biden during Tuesday night's first 2020 presidential debate night in Cleveland.

President Donald Trump continued to lash out at debate moderator Chris Wallace during his Duluth, Minnesota rally Wednesday night

On Tuesday night, President Donald Trump (right) participated in 2020's first presidential debate and 'Fox News Sunday' host Chris Wallace (left) moderated

On Wednesday, in front of the Minnesota crowd, President Donald Trump complained that Chris Wallace wouldn't let him hit Democrat Joe Biden as he pleased

President Donald Trump said Chris Wallace pushed back when he tried to hit Joe Biden on his son Hunter's business dealings and his support among the police

'I said "Sleepy Joe, name one law enforcement group that supports [you]" and then Chris Wallace says, "Don't do that." Can you believe? This guy,' Trump said.

The president also blamed Wallace for not being able to fully deploy an attack Biden's only living son, Hunter, who Trump smacked for his foreign business dealings.

'Protected by Chris,' Trump sniped. '"We don't want to discuss that,"' he said, mimicking the moderator. 'Oh really Chris? It's so sad.'

The president lumped Wallace in with the rest of the mainstream media during his Wednesday remarks.

'The liberal media is upset that I took the fight to Biden and exposed his dangerous agenda,' Trump said.

Turning to the summer's Black Lives Matter demonstrations coupled with the coronavirus crisis, the president charged that American journalists believe rioting is 'OK.'

'You can do whatever you want, you don't have to wear a mask you just riot, 25,000 people just standing on each other's face, do whatever you want,' Trump said. 'Can you go to church? No. Can you go to restaurants? No ... but you can riot. That's OK,' he added, referring to certain pandemic restrictions.

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'Arson is OK, but challenging Sleepy Joe is totally off limits,' Trump added.

Despite his complaints, Trump told the crowd - many of whom were sporting red and black flannel shirts - 'I really enjoyed last night's debate with Sleepy Joe.'

But that might change after the CPD said it was 'clear that additional structure should be added to the format of the remaining debates to ensure a more orderly discussion of the issues.'

The commission is looking into giving the moderator the power to cut a candidate's microphone while his opponent is talking, according to a person familiar with the deliberations.

Trump told the crowd that Biden was trying to pull out of the next two debates, which is false, as the Democrat's campaign committed to the Miami and Nashville face-offs Tuesday night on a post-debate press call.

'Now I understand he's cancelling the debates,' Trump said anyway. 'I don't think that's going to be a good look for him.'

Biden also raised a record amount in the debate's later hour - $3.8 milion.

As he has at other recent rallies, Trump also took on Rep. Ilhan Omar, part of the progressive 'squad' of freshman lawmakers on Capitol Hill.

The attacks were more personal, however, as Trump went on a rant about refugees coming into Minnesota, Omar's home state and where the rally was taking place, from Somalia, the country of the congresswoman's birth.

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The president accused Biden and 'Crazy Bernie Sanders' of agreeing to a 700 per cent increase in refugees into the United States.

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'Congratulations Minnesota, congratulations,' Trump said sarcastically, saying the flood of people will come from 'Yemen, Syria and your favorite country Somalia.'

The audience booed.

The largest Somali diaspora in the U.S. is in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area.

'Biden will turn Minnesota into a refugee camp,' Trump claimed.

He again suggested that Omar wasn't an American citizen, which she is.

'And then she tells us how to run our country,' Trump said. 'Can you believe it?'

'How the hell did Minnesota elect her? What the hell is wrong with you people. What the hell happened?'

Omar defeated the GOP candidate in her very Democratic Minneapolis district in 2018, 78 to 21.8 per cent.
Unveiled in Orange County this week, the helitanker is a 3,000-gallon capacity CH-47 Chinook that will assist fire crews in Southern California. (Orange County Fire Authority)

A record-setting wildfire season requires a record-setting response.

This week, Orange County fire officials unveiled the "Very Large Helitanker,"  a 3,000-gallon capacity CH-47 Chinook  that is now on-hand to assist fire crews battling Southern California's many blazes.

Considered the largest helicopter water tanker in the world, its capacity far exceeds that of the county's standard helitankers, which typically drop about 350 gallons, officials said.

"In our view, this is that next generation of helitanker," Orange County Fire Authority chief Brian Fennessy said at a live-streamed press conference Wednesday. "It's state-of-the-art. There is no other tanker like it in the world."

The tanker will be based out of Los Alamitos Joint Forces Training Base in Orange County and will be available to regions served by Southern California Edison, which provided $2.1 million toward its lease from owner Coulson Aviation. Regions served include Los Angeles County  where the Bobcat fire has seared through more 114,000 acres  and San Bernardino County, where the El Dorado fire claimed the life of firefighter Charles Morton.

The record-breaking tanker arrives as soaring temperatures and extreme fire conditions threaten threaten much of the region.

This is an important moment in a really incredible wildfire year, Southern California Edison president and CEO Kevin Payne said at the news conference. It provides added firefighting resources to fire agencies across Southern California right when we need them.

The helitanker will be manned by pilots from Coulson Aviation and an OCFA crew chief. Agencies requesting the tanker will pay for its flight time and usage, officials said.

Wayne Coulson, president and CEO of Coulson Aviation, told reporters that the twin-propeller, twin-engine tanker was designed with the functionality of helicopters and transport aircrafts in mind.

"It kind of plays two roles," he said. "It can go direct-attack atop the fire, or, if we load it up with retardant, we can drop retardant ahead of the fire like an air tanker."

Story continues

The helitanker is also night-vision certified, and can drop water or retardant both day and night.

On Wednesday, crews demonstrated the helitanker's power by dropping 250 gallons of water  about three quarters of a typical load  from a standard Bell 412 utility copter over Los Alamitos.

Moments later, the helitanker soared overhead and dropped 2,600 gallons of water, showering the base in a rainfall of relief.

This helitanker is a force multiplier, said Fennessy, the Orange County Fire Authority chief. This literally is the largest tanked helicopter in the world.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Pakistan on Thursday once again rejected Indias demand that an Indian lawyer or a Queens counsel should be appointed for death-row prisoner Kulbhushan Jadhav to ensure a free and fair trial in the review of his death sentence in this country.

We have repeatedly told them that only those lawyers can represent Commander Jadhav in the Court who have the license to practice law in Pakistan. This is in accordance with legal practice in other jurisdictions as well, Foreign Office spokesperson Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri said while replying to a question during his weekly press briefing here.

He further said that the Indian Supreme Court, in one of its judgments, has also ruled that foreign lawyers cannot practice law within the country.

Indias Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava last month said the government of Pakistan has not been able to fulfil its obligations on implementation of the ICJ judgment in letter and spirit.

It has not yet addressed the core issues, which include provision of all documents related to the case, providing unconditional and unimpeded consular access to Kulbhusan Jadhav and appointment of an Indian lawyer or a Queens counsel to ensure a free and fair trial, he said.

Queens Counsel is a barrister or advocate, appointed Counsel to the UK Crown on the recommendation of the Lord Chancellor.

Last month, the Islamabad High Court directed the Pakistan government to give India another chance to appoint a lawyer to represent Jadhav and adjourned hearing for a month.

Pakistans Parliament last month extended for four months an ordinance that allowed Jadhav to file an appeal against his conviction in a high court as required by the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Responding to a question on Pakistans offer of arranging a meeting of Jadhav with his father and wife, Chaudhri said the offer remains valid. However, we have not received any response from the Indian side as yet, he added.

In 2017, India approached the ICJ against Pakistan for denial of consular access to Jadhav and challenging the death sentence handed to him by a military court.

The Hague-based ICJ ruled in July 2019 that Pakistan must undertake an effective review and reconsideration of the conviction and sentence of Jadhav and also to grant consular access to India without further delay.

India has slammed Pakistan for adopting a farcical approach in denying available legal remedies to Jadhav against his death sentence in contravention of the ICJ order.

Fifty-year-old retired Indian Navy officer Jadhav was sentenced to death by a Pakistani military court on charges of espionage and terrorism in April 2017.

During the briefing, Chaudhri also said that Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has once again written to the President of the UN Security Council, raising the Kashmir issue.

Pakistan has been unsuccessfully trying to drum up international support against India for withdrawing Jammu and Kashmirs special status and bifurcating it into two Union territories. India has categorically told the international community that the scrapping of Article 370 was its internal matter. It also advised Pakistan to accept the reality and stop all anti-India propaganda.
CHICAGO, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the new market research report "Primary Cells Market by Origin (Human Primary Cells, Animal Primary Cells), Type (Hematopoietic, Dermatocytes, Gastrointestinal, Hepatocytes, Lung, Renal, Musculoskeletal, Heart), End User, Region - Global Forecast to 2025", published by MarketsandMarkets, the market is projected to reach USD 1,613 million by 2025 from USD 970 million in 2020, at a CAGR of 10.7%

Browse and in-depth TOC on "Primary Cells Market"

108 - Tables

34 - Figures

179 - Pages

Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=32854960

The Growth in this market is largely driven by the rising prevalence of cancer, increasing focus on the development of novel cancer therapies, and rising adoption of primary cells over cell lines. Emerging economies such as China and Japan are providing lucrative opportunities for the players operating in the Primary Cells Market.

The human primary cells segment accounted for the largest share of the Primary Cells Market, by origin segment, in 2019

Based on origin, the Primary Cells Market is segmented into human and animal primary cells. The human primary cells segment accounted for the largest share in the Primary Cells Market in 2019. The growing application areas of human stem cells and the rising incidence of cancer are the major factors driving the growth of this segment.

Hepatocytes segment to register the highest growth rate during the forecast period

Based on type, the Primary Cells Market is segmented into hematopoietic cells, dermatocytes, gastrointestinal cells, hepatocytes, lung cells, renal cells, heart cells, musculoskeletal cells, and other primary cells. In 2019, the hepatocytes segment accounted for the highest growth rate. This can be attributed to the increasing incidence of liver cancer & pediatric liver diseases across the globe, increasing research funding by key pharma players, and the emergence of new companies dedicated to liver therapeutics research.

The life science research companies segment accounted for the largest share of the Primary Cells Market, by end user segment, in 2019

Based on end-users, the Primary Cells Market is segmented into life science research companies and research institutes. In 2019, the life science research companies segment for the largest share in the Primary Cells Market. Increasing cancer research in life science research companies, the increasing number of R&D facilities, high adoption of primary cells in cell-based experiments, and the increasing investments of companies in cell-based research are the major factors driving the growth of this segment.

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North America is the largest regional market for Primary Cells Market

The Primary Cells Market is segmented into four major regions, namely, North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Rest of the World (RoW). In 2019, North America accounted for the largest share in the Primary Cells Market. The growth in the North American Primary Cells Market can be attributed to increasing funding for cancer research, growing life science research sector, expansion of the healthcare sector, and the high adoption of stem cell therapy & cell immunotherapies for the treatment of cancer and chronic diseases.

The major players operating in Primary Cells Market are Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc. (US), Merck KGaA (Germany), Lonza (Switzerland), Cell Biologics, Inc. (US), PromoCell GmbH (Germany), HemaCare Corporation (US), ZenBio, Inc. (US), STEMCELL Technologies, Inc. (Canada), Corning Incorporated (US), AllCells (US), American Type Culture Collection (US), Axol Bioscience Ltd. (UK), iXCells Biotechnologies (US), Neuromics (US), StemExpress (US), BioIVT (US), ScienCell Research Laboratories, Inc. (US), PPA Research Group, Inc. (US), Creative Bioarray (US), BPS Bioscience, Inc. (US), Epithelix Sarl (Switzerland), ReachBio LLC (US), AcceGen (US), Sekisui XenoTech, LLC (US), and Biopredic International (France).

Browse Adjacent Markets @ Biotechnology Market Research Reports & Consulting

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3D Cell Culture Market by Product (Hydrogel, Hanging Drop, Bioreactor, Microfluidics, Magnetic Levitation), Application (Cancer, Stem Cell, Toxicology, Tissue Engineering), End User (Pharmaceutical, Biotech, Cosmetics), Region - Global Forecast to 2024

https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/3d-cell-culture-market-191072847.html

Cell Expansion Market by Product (Reagent, Media, Flow Cytometer, Centrifuge, Bioreactor), Cell Type (Human, Animal), Application (Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cell Research, Cancer & Cell-based Research), End-User, and Region - Global Forecast to 2025

https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/cell-expansion-market-194978883.html

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KUALA LUMPUR (dpa-AFX) - The U.S. government has banned the import of palm oil by a Malaysian producer over forced labor concerns. Announcing the ban, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) said it will detain palm oil and palm oil products made by FGV Holdings Berhad and its subsidiaries and joint ventures at all U.S. ports. CBP's Office of Trade directed the issuance of a Withhold Release Order (WRO) against FGV based on information that indicates the use of forced labor, including physical and sexual violence, withholding of wages, abusive working and living conditions, and excessive overtime. CBP said it issued the order based on findings of a year-long investigation that revealed forced labor indicators in the company. 'The use of forced labor in the production of such a ubiquitous product allows companies to profit from the abuse of vulnerable workers,' said Brenda Smith, Executive Assistant Commissioner of CBP's Office of Trade. 'These companies are creating unfair competition for legitimately sourced goods and exposing the public to products that fail to meet ethical standards,' she added. The top official made it clear that 'CBP will continue to remind Americans that we can use our economic power to tell companies that we will not tolerate forced labor in U.S. supply chains.' A publicly-listed global agricultural and agri-commodities company, FGV accounts for about 15 percent of Malaysia's annual production of crude palm oil. Palm oil is a common ingredient in U.S. consumer products such as processed foods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, soap and biodiesel. Federal statute 19 U.S.C. 1307 prohibits the importation of goods produced with forced labor. 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.
Centus Biotherapeutics Receives European Marketing Authorization for Equidacent, Biosimilar Avastin

Details Category: Antibodies Published on Thursday, 01 October 2020 13:12 Hits: 2850

LONDON, UK and TOKYO, Japan I September 29, 2020 I Centus Biotherapeutics Ltd., a joint venture between Fujifilm Kyowa Kirin Biologics Co., Ltd. and AstraZeneca, today announced that the European Commission (EC) has granted the marketing authorization for Equidacent (Product Code: FKB238), the company's biosimilar to Avastin (bevacizumab).

The authorization follows the adoption of a positive opinion by the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP), which concluded that the development program including analytical, functional, clinical, and immunogenicity data demonstrated biosimilarity with the reference product, Avastin.

The EC approval of Equidacent applies to 27 European Union (EU) member states, the United Kingdom (UK) and the European Economic Area (EEA) member states of Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein.

Equidacent is indicated for the following indications:

metastatic carcinoma of the colon or rectum

metastatic breast cancer

unresectable advanced, metastatic, or recurrent non-small cell lung cancer

advanced and/or metastatic renal cell cancer

epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer

persistent, recurrent, or metastatic carcinoma of the cervix

Fujifilm Kyowa Kirin Biologics President and CEO Atsushi Matsumoto, Ph.D. commented, We are proud that Centus received the approval of Equidacent from the European Commission. This demonstrates that Fujifilm Kyowa Kirin Biologics successfully utilized its deep scientific expertise needed to develop biosimilars in collaboration with AstraZeneca.

Centus was established in 2015 as a joint venture between Fujifilm Kyowa Kirin Biologics and AstraZeneca. Fujifilm Kyowa Kirin Biologics has granted an exclusive license to Centus for the development, manufacture, and commercialization of Equidacent on a worldwide basis. Centus has been proceeding with clinical development of Equidacent.

Data submitted to obtain the marketing authorization for Equidacent included similarity assessment in analytical testing, preclinical and clinical studies that demonstrated biosimilarity to the bevacizumab reference product, Avastin. The phase 3 clinical study, AVANA, conducted by Centus, demonstrated no clinically meaningful differences in terms of safety, efficacy, and immunogenicity compared with the reference product, Avastin, in non-small cell lung cancer patients.

About Bevacizumab

Bevacizumab is a recombinant humanized monoclonal antibody that blocks angiogenesis by inhibiting vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A). It reduces growth and metastasis of several solid tumors.

About Centus

Centus Biotherapeutics (Centus) founded in 2015 is a joint venture between AstraZeneca, a global pharmaceutical leader, and Fujifilm Kyowa Kirin Biologics, a Japanese biopharmaceutical company focused on biosimilar development.

With the unique coupling of world class biologics expertise, global commercial infrastructure and deep biosimilar development experience, Centus is well positioned to win the trust of doctors and serve the needs of patients worldwide.

For more information please visit: https://www.centusbiotherapeutics.com

About Fujifilm Kyowa Kirin Biologics

Fujifilm Kyowa Kirin Biologics was established by FUJIFILM Corporation (President: Kenji Sukeno; Fujifilm) and Kyowa Kirin Co., Ltd. (President and CEO: Masashi Miyamoto, Kyowa Kirin) on March 27, 2012 as a company for developing, manufacturing, and marketing biosimilars. Its pipeline includes Equidacent and Hulio, an adalimumab biosimilar (Product Code: FKB327), a drug to treat a range of inflammatory diseases.

By merging the technologies in advanced production, quality control, and analysis which Fujifilm has developed over many years through its photographic film business, with the proprietary technologies and know-how which Kyowa Kirin has accumulated through its biopharmaceutical R&D and manufacturing, Fujifilm Kyowa Kirin Biologics creates revolutionary production processes and reduces costs for the production of biosimilars. Through this partnership, the company will develop and manufacture reliable, high quality, and cost-competitive biosimilar products, and will commercialize these products in a timely manner. With this strategy, Fujifilm Kyowa Kirin Biologics aims to hold a leading position in the expanding biosimilar market.

You can learn more about the business at: fujifilmkyowakirin-biologics.com

SOURCE: Fujifilm Kyowa Kirin Biologics
DUSSELDORF, Germany and SEATTLE, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Raytion, an internationally operating IT business consultancy specialized in search-based solutions and content integration, announces the general availability of its enterprise search connectors for Microsoft Graph. Raytion's Microsoft Graph connectors integrate content from third-party information systems into Microsoft Search.

Raytion GmbH

The connectors for third-party content allow implementing Microsoft 365 productivity apps and intelligent search-based solutions for Microsoft Teams or SharePoint Online including organization-wide enterprise search platforms. Among the systems supported by the connectors are on-premises and cloud platforms from Atlassian, Box, Facebook, Google, IBM, Microsoft, OpenText, Oracle, Salesforce, SAP, ServiceNow and Slack. Microsoft Search is Microsoft's cloud-native platform for building search-based applications. Microsoft Search provides cohesive and coherent search capabilities, which make it possible to intelligently find, discover, command, and navigate information across all your organization's data  both inside and outside of Microsoft 365.

"Digital transformation takes place faster than ever," said Valentin Richter, CEO of Raytion. "This rapid change encourages businesses to invest in long-term strategies for an integrated digital workplace. Together with Raytion's connectors for third-party content, Microsoft Search provides seamless access to relevant corporate knowledge, which is essential in such a strategy. We feel honored being one of Microsoft's key partners in offering connectors for Microsoft Graph and Microsoft Search and in extending the business use cases of Microsoft 365."

Bill Baer, senior technical product manager at Microsoft Corp., said, "Microsoft Search is at the heart of Microsoft's knowledge and insights strategy. We are glad that Raytion is one of our launch partners for Microsoft Search. Their connectors and solutions reliably integrate third-party repositories into Microsoft Search and make the most of Microsoft 365."

Raytion's Microsoft Graph connectors for Microsoft Search are available immediately.

About Raytion

Raytion is an internationally operating IT business consultancy. With a strategic focus on collaboration, search and cloud, Raytion designs, builds and operates rich business applications, including intelligent search-based solutions and enterprise search platforms. Raytion is one of the leading vendor-independent enterprise search specialists and a long-term integration partner of the major search technology vendors. Since 2001, Raytion has been implementing and operating high-quality, large-scale solutions for Global 500 companies and organizations worldwide.

Contact:

Manee Withoft

[email protected]

Phone +49 211 55 02 66 0

www.raytion.com

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General Availability of Raytion's Connectors for Microsoft Search

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NEW YORK, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Last year, MBAchic partnered with Brenau University to establish a scholarship for students pursuing their Executive MBA and awarded recipients $10,000 towards their studies in the Executive Women's MBA (EWMBA). After a successful residency in New York and yearlong partnership, MBAchic and Brenau have renewed the opportunity, opening the MBAchic Fellowship Application for those applying to be part of the program's January 2021 intake.

The inaugural cohort met in New York in Feb 2020 for a finance-themed residency with MBAchic that included an #InCharge discussion on the power of community in the Ashley Longshore Gallery at Diane von Furstenberg's NYC studio. Photo by AJ Reynolds.

This year, Brenau University made the groundbreaking move to launch the first-ever Executive Women's MBA. The Brenau EWMBA is specifically designed to equip and promote ambitious, driven women who are currently successful in the workplace and looking to advance to the C-suite. Provided through a flexible platform, the part-time program combines cohort and independent learning through online experiences and extended weekend residencies. Despite coronavirus concerns and lockdowns, the EWMBA has proceeded virtually with learning modules and ongoing speaker events that bring thought leaders  authors, executives, entrepreneurs and playwrights  from around the country to share their unique experiences and hard-earned insights.

The impressive inaugural cohort met in New York in February for a finance-themed residency with MBAchic that included networking, company visits, professional development workshops, visits to financial landmarks and an #InCharge discussion on the power of community at Diane von Furstenberg's NYC studio. Roughly halfway through the program, the impressive group of women the program has drawn continue to navigate the pandemic (some serving on the frontlines), and take on career changes and promotions, all while managing challenging coursework and building out their executive skillset.

As more women pursue their potential and make their way into the C-suite and into leadership positions, business, government and society benefit. MBAchic is a community and platform which focuses on making investing in education and careers, to propel them into those C-suites and positions, more accessible. Building community around navigating business school, careers, style and more, MBAchic aims to connect our global members through programming and events that speak to our shared experiences, regardless of career path, program (those not pursuing an MBA are always welcome) or background. The Brenau x MBAchic partnership makes sense, with such closely aligned missions and ideas to see them through. Apply today to join the second cohort of the Brenau EWMBA, which starts in January, and submit your application to the MBAchic Fellowship for $10,000 towards your studies (almost 15% of program cost).

CALL TO ACTION:

Apply to the Brenau EWMBA MBAchic Scholarship until October 31 here .

Find out more about the Brenau EWMBA here, read MBAchic's interview with Dr. Juli Clay here. Learn more about MBAchic here.

For more information, press only:

Dr. Juli Clay, Assistant Vice President for Executive Programs and Communications Department Chair at Brenau University

Lila Westmoreland, Director of Executive Programs at Brenau University

770-538-4713

https://ewmba.brenau.edu/

[email protected]

Jeneta Hot, Founder/Editor of MBAchic

https://MBAchic.com

[email protected]

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The Brenau Executive Women's MBA at DVF NYC

The inaugural cohort met in New York in Feb 2020 for a finance-themed residency with MBAchic that included an #InCharge discussion on the power of community in the Ashley Longshore Gallery at Diane von Furstenberg's NYC studio. Photo by AJ Reynolds.

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(CNN)  Starting next year, public companies headquartered in California will be legally required to diversify their boards racially, ethnically and in terms of sexual and gender identity.

The law, which was signed by California Governor Gavin Newsom on Wednesday, requires companies to have at least one board member from an underrepresented community by the end of 2021 and at least two or three -- depending on the board's size -- by the end of 2022.

People from underrepresented communities are defined in the bill as anyone who self-identifies as Black, African American, Hispanic, Latino, Asian, Pacific Islander, Native American, Native Hawaiian or Alaska Native, or who self-identifies as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender.

"This new law represents a big step forward for racial equity... This is a win-win as ethnically diverse boards have shown to outperform those that lack diversity," California State Assemblyman Chris Holden, a coauthor of the legislation, said in a statement.

The new law is likely to establish a new minimum threshold for corporate diversity across the country, much like the state's 2018 law requiring a minimum number of women directors.

Public companies are not required to report on the racial and ethnic mix of their boards, but a number of analyses have shown that corporate boards remain overwhelmingly White. And the biggest strides they've made in terms of diversity is to give women -- primarily White women -- a seat at the table.

A report earlier this month from ISS ESG, the responsible-investment arm of Institutional Shareholder Services, found that only 16.8% of large cap company boards had racially or ethnically diverse directors, up from 13.6% in 2015. By contrast, the growth in the number of women directors has been much greater. Women directors now account for 27.4% of such boards, up from 18.3% five years ago.

While bolstering diversity at corporations is now part of the national conversation, it won't amount to much without action.

"For all the good will and good intentions out there, most of us believe if you don't count it, it doesn't happen. You have to have measurable goals," said Aida Alvarez, a founding member of the Latino Corporate Directors Association, who herself sits on the boards of four public companies, including Hewlett-Packard.

Alvarez noted that despite Hispanics making up nearly 40% of California's population, 86% of the public companies based there don't have a Latino on their boards. "There's clearly underrepresentation right now. And there's a lot of great talent out there," said Alvarez.

This story was first published on CNN.com 'California will now require more diversity on company boards'
HOLYOKE  Citing lagging sales and the economic impact of COVID-19, Hampden Papers will close after 140 years. A Kentucky-based company will purchase the 100 Water St. companys assets.

Robert Fowler, Hampden Papers' CEO and president, will sell his shares to LLFlex. The deal was announced in a splashy YouTube presentation on Hampden Papers' website.

The purchase expands LLFlexs reach into the premium packaging industry, tapping into Hampden Papers' expertise in film, foil and metallic wrappings.

Hampden Papers operates a 300,000-square-foot manufacturing and warehouse facility staffed by 100 employees in the Lower Canal District.

Andrea Marion, executive director of the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce, said she was saddened by the news of Hampden Papers sale and impending closure.

The loss of tax revenue and jobs alone could have a huge impact on the city, its residents and our local businesses. As a community, we need to work harder to foster our current businesses while we continue to grow and bring new business to our city, Marion stated.

She added, We see an influx of new industry and tax revenue while we are simultaneously losing others, their tax revenue, jobs they provide, and ultimately the stimulation of our local economy. It is exciting to think about the potential for new business opportunities in Holyoke, but we cannot forget the companies that helped to build this city.

The burgeoning cannabis industry continues to replace Holyokes Paper City roots, taking over and retrofitting former mills into massive cultivation facilities. Gone also are the blocks of mill buildings not far from Hampden Papers, demolished and cleared for future use.

Marcos Marrero, the citys planning and economic development director, said the terms of the Hampden Papers sale did not include purchasing the Holyoke mill.

This is part of a very long trend in the paper textiles industry that hasnt really stopped, Marrero stated. A few years back we saw Curtis Business Forms be bought out by a company I believe in Texas and consolidated there, and afterward, we saw the closure of Holyoke Machine, which mostly serviced the paper and paper-supporting industries.

He added that businesses in the paper industry continue to consolidate and merge with other operations. The process has accelerated with local owners hitting retirement age, leaving few options but to sell, Marrero noted.

The trend doesnt change the fact that its always a sad day when a long-term business closes and workers see themselves separated from their employment, he said.

Marrero added, In the months ahead, I expect the Citys strong positioning in the emerging Cannabis industry will likely make the Hampden Papers facility a significant draw for a new company, should/after the transfer of operations materialize.

Hampden Papers CEO Robert Fowler, pictured in 1999, plans to sell the company's assets to Kentucky-based LLFlex. (The Republican file photo)

LLFLex recently opened a 73,500-square-foot plant in High Point, North Carolina, the likely home of Hampden Papers' specialized machinery.

Working closely with the owners and executives of Hampden Papers has allowed us to create this unique combination of assets, capabilities, expertise, and unparalleled commitment to our customers, LLFlex CEO Victor Dixon said in a statement.

He added, We are very proud and excited to carry forward the Hampden legacy and history by combining these foundations with the growing portfolio of LLFlex packaging material solutions.

Dixon said customers would notice immediate benefits with the sale, combining Hampden Papers' high-quality products with LLFlexs global supply chain. Besides packaging, LLFlex has stakes in building and construction and the wire and cable industries.

The move unites the Hampden Papers legacy as an industry pioneer through five generations of family ownership with LLFlexs rich heritage of over 100 years in the packaging industry, the statement read.

The combination creates one of the largest and most experienced suppliers of coated and laminated substrates for packaging in North America.

The Hampden Papers sale boosts LLFlexs packaging capabilities in the fields of food and beverage, health and beauty products, and metalized paper and board for sustainable packaging.

The combined capabilities of the two companies creates a broad product offering in several other diverse sectors in which paper-based materials are frequently laminated, coated or embossed including, tags, labels, tickets, cards, rigid boxes, gift wrap, envelopes, book jackets and decorative wallpaper, the statement read.

Besides plants in Kentucky and North Carolina, LLFlex operates supply chain operations in the U.S., China and the United Kingdom. Hampden Papers serviced customers in the U.S. and Canada.

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Leaked talking points show that Trump administration officials were told to publicly support the theory that Kyle Rittenhouse was acting in self-defence when he allegedly shot two protesters dead in Kenosha, Wisconsin this summer.

According to memos obtained by NBC News from the Department of Homeland Security, staffers were advised that when interviewed about the incident, they should say that the 17-year-old Rittenhouse took his rifle to the scene of the rioting to help defend small business owners.

Rittenhouse, who arrived at the protests with an assault-style weapon and was seen mingling with self-proclaimed militiamen, is facing numerous charges including first-degree intentional homicide and first-degree reckless homicide.

The talking points include a specific account of what supposedly happened during the incident on 23 August. "Kyle was seen being chased and attacked by rioters before allegedly shooting three of them, killing two, the memos reportedly read.

"Subsequent video has emerged reportedly showing that there were 'multiple gunmen' involved, which would lend more credence to the self-defence claims."

The talking points also reportedly instruct officials to deflect interviewers away from questions about Rittenhouses innocence or guilt, giving a suggested answer: "What I will say is that Rittenhouse, just like everyone else in America, is innocent until proven guilty and deserves a fair trial based on all the facts, not just the ones that support a certain narrative. This is why we try the accused in the court of law, not the star chamber of public opinion."

Rittenhouses case has become a cause celebre on the right, with voices from the mainstream to the fringe rallying behind him. Fox News has run multiple segments using footage to examine the self-defence theory, while the presidents son Donald J. Trump Jr. has defended him, saying we all do stupid things at 17.

A group of lawyers set up to defend him have raised more than $2m in crowdfunding, and now say they will sue the Biden campaign for definition after footage of Rittenhouse with his gun was included in a montage of clips about the presidents failure to unambiguously condemn white supremacy.

Rittenhouses case has been taken up on the extremist right as well. At a recent Proud Boys rally in Portland, Oregon, attendees were seen holding up signs saying Free Kyle Now and Kyles Life Matters.
Today the Associated Press updated its Stylebook to tell reporters how they should describe riots. Basically, the AP doesnt want readers to get the right impression:

Focusing on rioting and property destruction rather than underlying grievance has been used in the past to stigmatize broad swaths of people protesting against lynching, police brutality or for racial justice, going back to the urban uprisings of the 1960s. (2/5)  APStylebook (@APStylebook) September 30, 2020

Unrest is a vaguer, milder and less emotional term for a condition of angry discontent and protest verging on revolt. (3/5)  APStylebook (@APStylebook) September 30, 2020

Revolt and uprising both suggest a broader political dimension or civil upheavals, a sustained period of protests or unrest against powerful groups or governing systems. (5/5)  APStylebook (@APStylebook) September 30, 2020



So protests and demonstrations may be either peaceful or violent. From now on, to know that a riot has taken place you will need to read the fine print, or, more likely, turn to a source other than the AP. Coming soon: the Associated Press redefines arson and looting.
Leave it to Ryan Reynolds for bringing humour to the most mundane everyday moments. The popular star recently logged into his social media accounts to tease his co-star in the upcoming film.

The one Reynolds is poking fun at is Dwayne The Rock Johnson who will share screen space with him in the upcoming Netflixs Red Notice. Although the behind the scene visual does not feature the former wrestler, but the spotlight is on him.

Reynolds says that he makes heavy eye contact with his filmmaker Rawson Marshall Thurber so that the latter is under an impression that he has the actors entire attention. He expresses that he does it so that the director doesnt get a whiff that he is thinking about something else in his mind while talking to him.

In his quirky caption, the Deadpool fame actor mentions that he is imagining his co-star in bangs.

Reynolds has a reputation for cracking jokes online and has an endless supply of hilarious one-liners. This time around, his funny jab was at Dwayne Johnson.

In addition to The Rock, Ryan Reynolds will be joined by Gal Gadot in the much-anticipated film. The filming of the action-comedy thriller resumed after a hiatus of nearly five months due to the coronavirus crisis.

Red Notice brings Johnson and Rawson Marshall Thurber together after 2016. They earlier teamed up on Central Intelligence and the action drama Skyscraper(2018).

The plot of the film follows a world in international crime. It brings in an INTERPOL agent, who is on a pursuit for the most wanted art thief in the world, also the greatest con man. Johnson is to play the agent, called as the greatest tracker of the world. Ryan Reynolds and Gal Gadot will feature as the con-man and art thief, respectively.
The Data-Fueled Digital Agency will Deepen Analytics and Data Offerings and Expand Capabilities

ATLANTA, GA / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / Stripe Theory, an Atlanta-based strategic marketing agency, recently announced and celebrated its acquisition by the Acceleration Community of Companies (ACC). With this new partnership, Stripe Theory will join ACC's unique and powerful community of specialized agencies and bring to fruition the potential and promise of data-backed strategy for ACC's impressive portfolio of brands and clients.

"We are incredibly honored, proud and excited to join the ACC family," said Craig Kronenberger, CEO of Stripe Theory. "When I started Stripe I sought to create an agency unencumbered by silos and committed to building a data-first approach to brand promotion and protection. This vision aligns with ACC's evolution and we are excited to leverage our skill sets in paid media, strategy, SEO and analytics to unlock new value and understanding for ACC's impressive portfolio of companies and clients."

Craig Kronenberger launched Stripe Theory in 2015 on the belief that a focused application and deep expertise of data and analytics could fuel more relevant, cost-effective and impactful marketing results. To advance the agency's data-focused strategy, Stripe Theory invested in a suite of proprietary technologies, tools and processes empowering strategy development and execution across digital marketing, paid media, communications and crisis management. The team has also developed proven approaches for driving success across SEO, reputation management and influencer marketing, which have been fast-growing offerings for the agency. With teams in Atlanta and the Philippines, the agency has supported an array of companies across B2C and B2B industries, with a portfolio that includes Amazon, Nissan, Alexa.com, Lagunitas, and Canopy Growth, among others.

"The incredible growth of Stripe Theory is nothing short of amazing," said Michael Nyman, CEO of ACC. "Stripe Theory doesn't stop at data. Their integrated and innovative mindset turns data into insights, insights into strategy and strategy into breakthrough results for brands of all types. This commitment to perpetual learning, insight identification and strategic testing is a growing need in the brand marketplace and we're thrilled to have this need now met with the addition of Stripe Theory.

Stripe Theory will continue to operate under the leadership of Kronenberger and its executive leadership team which includes Isys Caffey-Horne, Adrienne Morgan and Amanda Hauther. Through this acquisition, Stripe Theory will expand its strategic offerings through the ACC family and will be making deeper investments in data and analytics. The agency's reputation and crisis management division will continue to operate under the name Stripe Reputation.

For more information, please visit www.StripeTheory.com.

About ACC

ACC is developing a new go-to-market business approach with a series of strategic and complementary acquisitions, including MKG, a leading creative agency specializing in brand experiences and Pink Sparrow, a design and fabrication shop specializing in experiential environments. Additionally, ACC has a brand advisory unit, ACC Advisory, a consultancy aimed at providing clients a central point for integration and customization.

Acceleration's unique community of specialized firms help clients move quickly and efficiently with their branding, marketing and media decisions and action, by ensuring all agencies are tech-enabled, with data and analytics utilization linking them all together and driving maximum results for their clients. Between ACC Advisory and its current business portfolio, clients and projects include a mix and range of Fortune 500 as well as direct-to-consumer brands, from Pepsi, Google, Lululemon, Bank of America, Facebook, Sephora, Disney-ABC, Dolby and T-Mobile, FashionNova, Canopy Growth and iWi, a new algae-based Omega supplement. For more information, please visit: www.theaccelerationcc.com

About Stripe Theory

Stripe Theory is a data-fueled digital agency delivering breakthrough insights through data automation and marketing innovation. With teams in Atlanta and the Philippines, we are focused on using our unique advantage in state-of-the-art research and analytics, digital technology, 360-monitoring, and deep-data analysis to protect and grow brands through digital marketing, paid media, communications and crisis management. For more information, please visit www.StripeTheory.com.

CONTACT:

Isys Caffey-Horne

404.368.7070

isys@stripetheory.com

SOURCE: Stripe Theory

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/608740/Stripe-Theory-Announces-Acquisition-by-the-Acceleration-Community-of-Companies
Thank you, Google, for keeping your remote press conference mercifully short and to the point.

Oddly, the Pixel 5 and Pixel 4a 5G phones  dont confuse them  were given equal weighting with a new, prettier Chromecast dongle (with remote) and a new smart speaker called Nest Audio.

Weve already got hands-on impressions of the new Chromecast, but youll have to wait a little longer for the speaker (in transit to our writers last I heard) and the Pixel phones, which are likely to be closer to launch date. For the US (most of you reading), that will be October 29th. Other countries, including the UK and Japan, will see the phones land October 15th.

The Pixel 5 is generally less flagship than you might have expected, coming in at $599 at a time when devices are tipping over the $1,000 mark. It skips Qualcomms Snapdragon 865 processor, using a midrange 5G-capable Snapdragon 765G instead. Google also removed the Pixel 4s Soli radar module, meaning no face unlock or touchless Motion Sense controls seen (but barely used) in the Pixel 4.

Googles head of hardware said it himself: These are phones designed for a period of economic downturn. Rick Osterloh told the BBC it was a deliberate choice to offer 5G-capable phones at "an affordable price."

Why? Google couldnt have seen the COVID-19 crisis coming. No, the company was informed by the success of its Pixel 3a phones last year. We, collectively, loved them and probably wrote about the middleweight phones with the killer camera a little bit too much.

They apparently doubled phone sales for Google. Who wouldnt want to try to repeat that success?

 Mat

Yep, it's basically just what we were expecting.

Plenty of details about the Pixel 5 had already leaked in advance, and we also got an idea of what it would include from the Pixel 4a, which arrived this summer. Yep, we got the same style screen, with a pinhole front-facing camera, and as expected, the Pixel 5 arrives with a 6-inch, 2340 x 1080 screen. Theres no XL model this year, just this single model.

Google is also bringing back the fingerprint sensor that went missing from last years Pixel 4. Gone is the face unlock feature that didnt quite set the world on fire. Also missing this year are the odd touchless controls that were powered by an ultra-wideband radar sensor above the screen. The Pixel 5 has a dual camera on the back. But instead of going with the standard and telephoto arrangement, Google swapped out the telephoto lens for an ultra-wide angle shooter.

If youre interested, youll have to wait till the end of October to get one.

Continue reading.

It comes in a variety of colors.

Googles Nest Audio is a fabric-clad speaker similar to the Nest Mini, but its meant to sound better. According to Google, it has 50 percent more bass and 75 percent more volume than its predecessor. You can pair two Nest Audio speakers for stereo sound, a la Apples HomePods or Sonos systems. The Nest Audio will be available for $100 starting October 5th in the US.

Continue reading.

Except to see this one in November.

The Pixel 4a 5G borrows features from both its namesake and the more expensive Pixel 5 Google also announced on Wednesday. Its equipped with the Snapdragon 765G processor and camera setup from the Pixel 5, as well as the same amount of storage at 128GB. But to keep the price down on this device, it has a slightly larger 6.2-inch screen that doesnt have the same 90Hz refresh rate as the Pixel 5s display.

It adds a headphone jack but drops other features like the water-resistant casing and wireless charging, and it has a slightly smaller battery than the Pixel 5 at 3,885mAh. Still, it looks like a great option for the price, although Verizon is charging $100 more for a version equipped to access its mmWave-based 5G network.

Continue reading.

Google TV is back, but not like you remember.

Google also refreshed its Chromecast streaming device, and the newest edition includes a remote control. The beefed up device includes support for Dolby Vision HDR now, and while it resembles the outgoing Chromecast Ultra, its slimmer and comes in different colors. Its small remote includes volume and input controls that can map to your TV, as well as direct access buttons for YouTube and Netflix and a button for voice control using Assistant. The new Chromecast is available for $50, or $90 with six months of Netflix included.

This device also marks the return of Google TV  but not the predecessor to Android TV. Instead, Googles using the name to describe its interface that provides access to other streaming apps like Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu and others. On mobile devices, its also rolling out as the new name for what used to be Play Movies & TV. You can see your purchased content there and access a Watchlist that queues up content no matter which app its actually in.

Continue reading.

Apparently, his new face is a better fit for his voice.

Developer Insomniac Games says the forthcoming Marvels Spider-Man: Remastered for the PS5 will be different from the 2018 original in multiple ways. One change seems out of left field: Peter Parkers face, recast and redesigned to reflect a new actor.

Insomniac explained in a blog post that, In order to bring the best performances to players with our next-generation Marvels Spider-Man games, we have recast the face of Peter Parker. We loved working with John Bubniak on the original game; however, to get a better match to Peter Parker/Spider-Man actor Yuri Lowenthals facial capture, we have cast Ben Jordan to be the face model for Peter Parker on the PS5 console.

Continue reading.

But wait, theres more...

Google Photos for Android has a powerful new editor

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Facebook has removed more than 6,500 militia groups and pages

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EA removed a FIFA microtransaction ad that was aimed at kids

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US court agrees with SEC that Kik's $100 million coin offering violated the law

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Namita Bajpai By

Express News Service

LUCKNOW: On a day of intense political tussle over the alleged gang-rape and murder of a Dalit woman in Hathras, Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra were on Thursday briefly detained by the UP police while on their way to meet her family. A footage of the incident showing a scuffle between Congress workers and the UP police, during which Rahul got knocked down, added to the drama.

Earlier, the convoy of the Congress leaders was stopped on the Yamuna Expressway in Greater Noida. The police told them not to proceed to Hathras as Section 144 was in force there. But Rahul and Priyanka alighted from their vehicle and started proceeding on foot along the Yamuna expressway to Hathras.

The scuffle broke out when the police tried to stop them again. Rahul and Priyanka were briefly detained and then taken back to Delhi by the police. Later, an FIR was filed against them and over 130 Congress workers for flouting prohibitory orders under Section 144. For his part, Rahul criticised the Yogi government, calling it jungle raj. It is Jungle Raj in UP that meeting a family in mourning scares the government. Dont be so afraid chief minister, he tweeted.

Lathis rained on us

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi said, When we all started our march on foot with Rahul ji, we were repeatedly stopped and lathis rained on us in a barbaric manner.
WHO's ACT-Accelerator has received roughly $3 billion of the $38 billion needed to produce, deliver vaccine doses, treatments and diagnostic tests in 2021.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called Wednesday for an "immediate infusion" of $15 billion to a global pool for the procurement and distribution of Covid-19 vaccines at a virtual summit hosted by the world body.

The ACT-Accelerator, led by the World Health Organization, has received around $3 billion of the $38 billion needed to meet the goal of producing and delivering two billion vaccine doses, 245 million treatments and 500 million diagnostic tests over the next year.

Notable new pledges included an additional 100 million euros ($117 million) by German Chancellor Angela Merkel, beyond the 675 million euros Germany has already committed.

Britain's foreign minister Dominic Raab said his country, which has committed 250 million pounds ($320 million), would spend another pound for every four dollars committed by others, up to an additional 250 million pounds.

Sweden's Prime Minister Stefan Lofven pledged $10 million while Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau touted a Can$440 million ($332 million) commitment made last week, half of which will go to low or middle-income countries.

The World Bank's president David Malpass said he had proposed "up to $12 billion of fast-track financing" to countries for the purchase and deployment of Covid-19 vaccine, also previously announced.

- 'Window of opportunity' -

"These resources are crucial now to avoid losing the window of opportunity for advance purchase and production, to build stocks in parallel with licensing, to boost research, and to help countries prepare to optimize the new vaccines when they arrive," Guterres said.

"Despite extraordinary efforts to contain its spread, the Covid-19 pandemic continues to ravage the world, reaching one million lives lost this week," he added.

"It is in every country's national and economic self-interest to work together to massively expand access to tests and treatments, and to support a vaccine as a global public good."

Addressing the summit, Bill Gates announced his foundation had signed a new agreement with 16 biotech firms to expand global access to vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics.

Gates said that the world was on the brink of a "great scientific achievement" in the form of a vaccine.

But he added that the world's low and low middle income countries, which made up nearly half of the global population, were only on track to cover 14 percent of their people with a Covid-19 vaccine.

Alex Gorsky, the CEO of Johnson and Johnson, which is part of the agreement with the Gates Foundation, told the summit his company planned to allocate 500 million vaccine doses for lower income countries by the middle of next year.

WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus said he was "grateful for the generous financial commitments made" but added there remained a "significant funding gap to close."
W ikiLeaks founder Julian Assange faces Christmas behind bars waiting to find out if he will be extradited to the United States.

The 49-year-old was arrested on a fresh 18-count indictment, alleging a plot to hack computers and conspiracy to obtain and disclose national defence information, at the start of a four-week evidential hearing at the Old Bailey last month.

He is wanted in the US following the publication of hundreds of thousands of leaked documents in 2010 and 2011 relating to the Afghanistan and Iraq wars, as well as diplomatic cables.

Judge Vanessa Baraitser adjourned the case on Thursday until January 4 when she will deliver her ruling on whether he should be extradited .

Stella Moris and sons, Gabriel (right) and Max (left) leave Belmarsh Prison / PA

She remanded Assange, who has already spent 16 months at Belmarsh top security jail, in custody and said he will next appear at Westminster Magistrates Court for an administrative hearing on October 29.

Speaking outside court, his fiancee Stella Moris, with whom Assange fathered two children during his seven-year stay at Londons Ecuadorian embassy, thanked supporters for helping us continue this fight.

Its a fight for Julians life, a fight for press freedom and a fight for the truth, she said.

This case is already chilling press freedom.

It is a frontal assault on journalism, on the publics right to know and our ability to hold governments, domestic and foreign, to account. Terrible crimes were committed in Iraq and Afghanistan and terrible crimes were committed at Guantanamo Bay. The perpetrators of those crimes are not in prison. But Julian is.

Julian is a publisher. Julian is also a son, a friend, my fiancee and a father. Our children need their father. Julian needs his freedom. And our democracy needs a free press.

Ms Morris, centre, with Assange's legal team / PA

Assanges legal team called dozens of witnesses in a bid to persuade the district judge to block his extradition.

He denies plotting with defence analyst Chelsea Manning to crack an encrypted password on US Department of Defence computers and says there is no evidence WikiLeaks publications put US informants lives at risk.

His lawyers claim the prosecution under Donald Trump is politically motivated, after an investigation launched under President Barack Obama failed to bring charges.

His lawyer Jennifer Robinson described a meeting in August 2017 in which he was offered a pardon allegedly on behalf of Mr Trump to identify the source of the Democratic National Committee leaks to WikiLeaks which boosted him in the 2016 election in order to end speculation over Russian involvement.
Trump admin cut funding to OTF, a non-profit that supports protesters in places like Hong Kong, Lebanon, and Iran

Last week, the House Foreign Affairs Committee grilled Michael Pack, who President Trump recently appointed to head the US governments state propaganda arm, the US Agency for Global Media (USAGM).

Pack was appointed in June and started a big shakeup at the US state media outlets run by the USAGM, like Voice of America and Radio Free Asia. Pack fired senior staffers, pushed out management, and froze funding.

During last weeks hearing, Democrats and Republicans on the committee teamed up to attack Pack for his purges. But what seemed more important to Congress and former USAGM officials was Packs move to freeze funds to the Open Technology Fund (OTF). The OTF was formed in 2012 and operated as part of Radio Free Asia for seven years. In 2019, the OTF became an independent non-profit, although it is financed by US taxpayer dollars through the USAGM.

According to former USAGM officials and OTF board members, the OTF supports protesters in other nations across the world. In many places around the globe, OTF quietly is providing support to protesters, said Grant Turner, the former USAGM chief financial officer, who Pack removed in August. So the Hong Kong protesters are protecting their identities from surveillance by OTF tools; protesters in Iran; weve seen it in Beirut, Turner said.

Ambassador Karen Kornbluh, who sits on the board of the OTF, also testified and spoke of how the OTF helps protest movements. OTF has a long history of supporting internet freedom efforts, and was poised to expand its efforts in Hong Kong, Kornbluh said. It was going to serve support for circumvention tools and expand support for digital training.

Kornbluh explained that the USAGM froze OTF funds before Chinas national security law for Hong Kong came into effect. And then USAGM froze, and continues to withhold, its funding  and did that just weeks before the new security laws came into effect, Kornbluh said. So OTF hasnt been able to support any of these efforts.

The frozen Hong Kong funds were first reported by Time magazine in June. According to Time, Pack froze $2 million that would have directly benefited the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong. One project the OTF was working on in Hong Kong was a cybersecurity incident response team that would have analyzed Chinese surveillance techniques in Hong Kong. The team would have shared information with developers who would design apps for protesters to use. The freeze in funding made this project impossible to go through with.

Another OTF project hampered by the freeze was a $500,000 rapid response fund, designed to provide fast relief for civil society groups, protesters, journalists, and human rights defenders. According to Time, this initiative has already made several payouts to groups in Hong Kong since the civil unrest began in June 2019.

The cut in funding inadvertently revealed the US governments covert role in the Hong Kong protest movement. The US government-funded National Endowment for Democracy also provides funding for pro-democracy movements in Hong Kong.

Besides the US government supporting Hong Kong protesters through cutout organizations like the OTF and NED, there has been more overt interference in the city. Throughout the demonstrations, protesters were seen waving US flags and calling for Congress to pass legislation. Leaders of the movement even traveled to Washington and testified before Congress, pleading for US intervention.

President Trump signed the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act into law in November 2019. The administration has since sanctioned Hong Kong officials and changed the citys special trade status. This US interference gave Beijing the foreign boogeyman it needed to pass the controversial national security law.

Pack was appointed to head the USAGM after the White House accused Voice of America of repeating Chinese state propaganda in its coronavirus coverage. Considering this, the damage Packs overhaul did to the OTFs support for protesters in Hong Kong was likely an unintended consequence.
Ukraine-China trade was estimated at about US$13 billion last year.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says the country is working to stop being a raw materials supplier, including for China.

"Ukraine is working to leave the category of exclusively 'raw materials' supplier. We're confident that we'll have something to offer, including to China," he told Xinhua News Agency, as reported by the President's Office on October 1.

Read alsoUkraine, China talk expanding agri-supplies

China has always been and remains a priority in Ukraine's foreign policy. The president and the government pay special attention to the bilateral cooperation.

"We must work together to develop a new strategy, a new vision, new growth points," he said.

"I'm sure the next meeting of the Commission for Cooperation between the Governments of Ukraine the People's Republic of China, on which both sides are actively working, will contribute to the implementation of this goal. Analysis of the current state of cooperation, joint formation of a new agenda are the major tasks for the bilateral body," he added.

Zelensky noted that Ukraine has significant potential for cooperation with China in various fields, which is commensurate with or even greater than that of many other Eastern European countries. The Ukrainian side is interested in the successful implementation of this potential.

"China has confidently topped our major trading partners' ranking as our [trade] turnover stood at about US$13 billion last year. China is more confidently taking a leading position among Ukraine's main export partners. I am sure that the current indicators can be significantly improved," he added.

However, not only the growth of trade indicators is important, but also the diversification of goods, an increase in high-tech products and products with a high degree of processing and high added value, the president said.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday issued a warning of rainfall to several districts of Odisha including the capital city of Bhubaneswar for next 24 hours.

In the weather forecast issued today, HR Biswas, IMD Director, Bhubaneswar said, Warnings issued in most districts expect coastal and adjoining interior areas; western and extreme southern end of Odisha for next 24 hours. All districts will witness rain, but it will heavy only in 1 or 2 places. Capital city can have light to medium rainfall.

IMD Director added that a low-pressure area over North-west Bay of Bengal near Odisha is likely to develop and wind speeds can reach upto 40-50 kmph.

Moreover, fishermen have been warned not to venture into the sea.

Low-pressure area over North-west Bay of Bengal near Odisha coast is likely to cause light-medium rain for the next 4-5 days. 1 or 2 places likely to have heavy to very heavy rain. Wind speeds can reach 40-50 kmph and fishermen have been warned, the IMD Director said.

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PSU announces enrollment numbers

Thursday, October 1, 2020 1:30 PM

News

Pittsburg, KS

Preliminary 20th day enrollment figures released today by the Kansas Board of Regents show a decrease statewide in enrollment at public higher education institutions, including Pittsburg State University.

Among the state universities, PSU falls in the middle. The headcount went from 6,645 last year, which was up 20 students from the year before, to 6,398 students this year, or a loss of 3.7 percent.

The average decrease in headcount at state universities was 3.5 percent. Community colleges experienced an average decrease of 14.1 percent, while technical colleges saw an average drop of 9.4 percent.

At PSU, one category in enrollment saw a significant increase this year, and that was graduate enrollment, with 109 additional students seeking masters degrees.

Another positive note: PSUs rate of retention when it comes to last years freshmen. The percentage went up slightly this year, with 73.85 returning for the 2020-21 academic year. In 2019-20, the rate of returning freshmen was 73.7 percent.

President Steve Scott said that given the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with the enrollment decline that higher education has weathered in the past few years, PSU's decline was not unexpected. In fact, Scott noted the decline was made more modest by the extraordinary efforts of faculty and staff as they have responded to the pandemic.

Scott noted, I could not be more pleased with how the university has kept its focus on serving students and the community.

We continue to hear from employers across the nation that they want our graduates, and they need our graduates, to fill critical positions, he said. Were doubling down on getting that message out in hopes that prospective students realize a college degree is vital to the future of our nations workforce, and their own futures. Were hopeful that message is received and in coming months, we begin to see an uptick in enrollment.

Challenges that impacted PSU directly included pandemic-related limitations on recruiting prospective students, enrolling international students for the fall semester, and a delayed start for many Kansas high schools, which led to a decrease in the number of high school students enrolled in concurrent courses at the time of the 20th day census.

"It could be worse, Scott said, but we certainly arent letting up. Were continuing to do all we can to remove the cost barrier to earn a college degree, and to look at new and innovative ways to reach and serve potential and current students.
Offre willingly walks for hours at a time across the roadless mountains of Haiti to help free his country of mosquito-borne diseases malaria and lymphatic filariasis.

Dorcelan Offre, 27, carries an amplifier to make important health announcements in his isolated community high up in the mountains of Artibonite Department, Haiti. (All photos: The Carter Center)

Dedicated service is common among community volunteers and health workers with whom The Carter Center partners, but Dorcelan Offre takes it to another level.

Offre (pronounced "Off"), 27, will do whatever it takes to help fight malaria in his native rural Haiti, even if it means going far beyond the end of the road.

"Today I will walk almost five hours to retrieve blood samples from the team in the field," he says. The specimens, which will be tested for indications of malaria, will be handed off to him by an equally committed volunteer who has walked a similar distance from the opposite direction. Neither one knows what the other looks like, and they dont have cellphone service in the high country where they trek.

"It is done by faith," Offre says. "I will just watch for someone carrying a box of blood samples, and that person will look for someone who looks like hes on his way to meet someone."

Hispaniola  the shared home of Haiti and the Dominican Republic  is the only island in the Caribbean region that remains endemic for malaria. The Carter Center launched the Hispaniola Initiative in 2008 to facilitate the efforts of both countries ministries of health to eliminate malaria and lymphatic filariasis, both of which are spread by mosquitoes. The binational initiative has assisted the ministries by fostering cooperation, providing technical assistance, and helping to integrate activities between their respective programs. In recognition of their success, the Pan American Health Association named Haiti and the Dominican Republic jointly among its 2017 Malaria Champions of the Americas.

In addition to transporting blood samples, Offre promotes community engagement and mobilization aimed at educating the public and encouraging healthful behaviors. He carries a small amplifier on a shoulder strap to make sure crowds can hear his deep, soft voice.

Offre cares passionately about his neglected community. Where he lives, high in the rock-strewn hills of Haitis Artibonite Department, community leaders drew neighbors together a few years ago to build a rough road, using nothing but stones from their fields and simple tools like hoes and shovels.

"Before the road, it was hard to live here," Offre says. "My parents sent me to Verrettes [the nearest city, more than 10 miles away] to go to school. If I wanted to visit home on the weekend, I had to walk the whole way  mostly uphill  and I was just a child."

Before automotive access, hillside residents had to bring in building materials on their backs to reach homesites.

"Building the road allowed people to build better houses," Offre observes. Moreover, the road allowed the construction of a school that serves several communities. In roadless hill country, education and income are sparse and medicine is scarce. With no road, people who got seriously sick or injured would die before getting anywhere near a hospital.

The Carter Center, Offre, and many others are determined to change all that.

"When I see what the places beyond the end of the road are like, it motivates me to think of the things I would do for people if I were ever elected to office," Offre says earnestly. "I have seen what can happen when a community works together to solve a problem, whether it's building a road, eliminating a disease, or whatever it may be. I want to meet with everyone in the community, to teach them how to avoid malaria, how to keep mosquitoes away. People working together can do anything."

Learn more about the Center's Hispaniola Program 
UP Cabinet Minister questioned why were the Congress leaders not visiting Rajasthan, from where a similar incident has been reported. He accused Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi of playing politics over the issue.

Congress leaders Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi, and others from their party just want to play politics over the Hathras gang-rape incident, said Uttar Pradesh Minister Sidharth Nath Singh on Thursday. The UP Cabinet Minister further questioned why were the Congress leaders not visiting Rajasthan, from where a similar incident has been reported and added that even Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi should give answers for the incident in Rajasthan. Why are they not (Congress leaders) visiting Rajasthan? Will Sonia, Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi not give answers on what is happening in Rajasthan? They want to play politics over the issue (Hathras rape incident) by visiting the district, Singh told ANI.

His statements came as both Rahul and Priyanka are scheduled to visit Hathras to meet the victims family today.

Meanwhile, reports have surfaced about two minor girls being gang-raped in Congress-ruled Rajasthan. The incident, according to reports, has taken place in Baran. The Rajasthan Police, however, have denied the rape charges. The Minister said that the matter of Hathras gang rape will be heard in a fast track court and asserted that strictest possible punishment will be given in this case to set an example.

The incident which happened in Hathras is very unfortunate. The government also wants the same, therefore, the whole matter will be heard in fast track courts and strict action will be taken to set an example so that such incidents do not happen again, Singh said. He further said that the state government has given Rs 25 lakh ex-gratia, a house, and a job to the family of the victim. Further a SIT has also been formed which has been asked to submit its report within seven days, he added.

Also Read: BSP supremo Mayawati asks imposition of Presidents rule in UP over Hathras, Balrampur incidents

Further accusing the Congress leaders he said, Rahul Gandhi and his sister dont want to do anything other than play politics over the issue. They do not want to heal the wounds of the victim, but instead want to heal their own wounds and rejuvenate themselves. The Minister added that the state government is committed to providing safety and security to all residents, including women, in the state. The 19-year-old gang rape victim died in Delhis Safdarjung Hospital on Tuesday.

She was brought to the hospital on Monday from Aligarh Muslim University Medical College. An official had earlier said that the last rites were performed at the victims native place in the wee hours of Wednesday. All the four accused involved in the incident have been arrested. (ANI)

Also Read: Another Hathras in UP, 22-yr old gang-raped, succumbs enroute to hospital
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan has sent a congratulatory message to President Nicos Anastasiades of the Republic of Cyprus on the countrys Independence Day, the PMs Office told Armenpress.

The message says:

On behalf of the Government of the Republic of Armenia and on my own behalf, I extend my most cordial congratulations to you and to the brotherly people of Cyprus on the Independence Day of the Republic of Cyprus. I wish you continuous progress, prosperity and peace.

The deeply rooted Armenian-Cypriot relations have had many manifestations of friendship, based on historical and cultural affinities, shared values and reciprocated sympathy.

Armenia highly appreciates the ongoing interstate cooperation and excellent political dialogue with friendly Cyprus, which as underpinned by mutual respect and trust keep strengthening and expanding every year and growing into ties of allied partnership.

We are confident that the fraternal relations and mutually beneficial partnership between our two countries will boast ever new achievements in the coming years.

***

President of Armenia Armen Sarkissian also congratulated the Cypriot counterpart on the Independence Day.

In his letter the Armenian President highlighted the centuries-old friendship with Cyprus, the close relations which are based on historical-cultural ties and common spiritual values.

You know that on September 27 early morning Azerbaijan launched a large-scale attack against the Republic of Artsakh, targeting also the civilian population. For decades Azerbaijan has been trying to solve the Nagorno Karabakh conflict through military force, by violating all international and moral norms, refusing to find the key for the peaceful settlement of the conflict around the negotiation table. Artsakh and Armenia have jointly resisted this adventure and destructing policy of the Azerbaijani leadership, which is backed by Turkey, and will continue to giving an adequate response to the adversary. I am confident that the brotherly Cyprus stands by us at this difficult moment for Armenia and Artsakh, the Armenian President said, wishing his Cypriot counterpart good health and all the best.
A: I believe that through taxes and donations, our school is doing well in that aspect. I look forward to being involved in the accounting aspect of being on the school board. Being in a rural community, I would like to see if we could pull in more funding from the state.

Q: This past year has been a challenge for all school districts, to say the least, due to COVID-19. Do you believe the district has adequately responded to this unprecedented situation? Do you think some things could have been handled differently? What do you think school district should plan for into the future, as the pandemic continues?

A: Having to endure this pandemic and for the staff/board to basically have to write a whole new playbook on this is something no one ever saw coming, but they followed the CDC and Four Corners guidelines and communicated it to the parents well. This is something no one really has a plan in their back pocket for. We received calls from the principal asking how we as a family are dealing with everything and if we needed anything  this meant a lot to us. The school continued to provide breakfasts/lunches for school-aged children through the rest of what would have been the school year. Throughout all of this, the staff and board as well as the teachers had our childrens best interests at heart and really thought outside of the box in many aspects.
She is used to flaunting her figure in lingerie and bikinis.

Yet Alessandra Ambrosio was wowing in clothes on Wednesday evening as she headed for dinner in a sizzling ensemble in West Hollywood.

The Brazilian beauty, 39, looked sensational in a wrap top and high-waisted trousers from Paris Georgia, in which she was showcasing her braless state by preening and posing.

Hot stuff: Alessandra Ambrosio was wowing in a Paris Georgia ensemble on Wednesday evening as she headed for dinner in a sizzling ensemble in West Hollywood

Alessandra looked incredible in the sexy wrap top which made the most of both her abs and her perky cleavage as she strutted down the Hollywood streets.

As she displayed her frame, it is easy to wonder how she stays in shape - the secrets of which she revealed in a interview about her workouts with Tracy Anderson.

Speaking about how she prepares for the annual Victoria's Secret fashion show, she said: 'I train the whole year, and right before [the Victoria's Secret show] I start to train a bit more than the rest of the year....

'I love to workout, and I love to do Tracy Anderson. I get very focused on being fit and feeling good for the runway.

Wow! The Brazilian beauty, 39, looked sensational in a wrap top and high-waisted trousers, in which she was showcasing her braless state by preening and posing

'I try to go three times a week to Tracy Anderson, then I will for a hike one day of the week or do yoga. Sometimes I feel like I need to do more yoga, and other times I feel I need more toning, which is what Tracy is all about...

'It really depends how I feel and the strength I have at the time.'

Alessandra rose to international fame as a Victoria's Secret Angel, announcing that she was giving up the title at the end of 2017.

Strutting her stuff: Alessandra looked incredible in the sexy wrap top which made the most of both her abs and her perky cleavage as she strutted down the Hollywood streets

She has since collaborated with her sister Aline and a pal called Gisele Coria to launch her swimwear line Gal Floripa, which debuted last March.

The brand takes its title from a nickname for Florianopolis, the Brazilian city where Alessandra gave birth to both of her children.

Alessandra shares her 12-year-old daughter Anja and her eight-year-old son Noah with her ex-fiance, RE/DONE founder Jamie Mazur. The couple split in March 2018 after a 10 year engagement, and amicably co-parent their children.

In July that year, Alessandra revealed she was dating Italian businessman Nicolo Oddi and spent the last few months in lockdown isolating with her boyfriend and her children.
US president Donald Trump speaks in Minnesota on Wednesday (AFP via Getty Images)

Donald Trump and Joe Biden gave back-to-back remarks at the 2020 Alfred E Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner, broadcast virtually from New York, typically a tuxedo affair that during an election year features candidates delivering chummy remarks and discussions of faith during the Catholic charities fundraiser.

This year, the president accused his rivals party of housing anti-Catholic bigotry" as he pitched his Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett, moments after Mr Biden invoked his own Catholic faith.

The former vice president spoke to the hope and possibility for Americas future as it emerges from the public health crisis.

Their appearances follows Tuesdays chaotic debate, though the presidents campaign has pushed against the Commission for Presidential Debates plan to add more structure to the next rounds after the opener was marred by constant cross-talk and the presidents interruptions.

His campaign accused the nonpartisan committee of political bias and listed a number of unofficial online polls declaring the president the winner of the first debate.

Fox News anchor Chris Wallace, who moderated the first debate between Mr Trump and Democratic candidate Joe Biden, said it was the president who bears the primary responsibility for what happened.

The White House was repeatedly asked to unambiguously denounce white supremacy, following remarks by the president at the debate urging nationalist gang the Proud Boys to stand back and stand by during while he dodged demands to condemn white supremacism.

Republicans have distanced themselves from his remarks while the FBI warns that the election and pre-inaugural period could be potential for violent flashpoint among right-wing extremists.

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Read more

Trump uses Catholic charity speech to accuse Democrats of anti-religious bigotry

Trump adviser baselessly casts doubt on Ilhan Omars US citizenship in latest racist attack

Trump campaign pushes Facebook ads promoting earpiece conspiracy with doctored image of Biden

Trump campaign launches blistering attack on debates commission as moderator Wallace blames president for debacle
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 16:22:26|Editor: huaxia

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Travellers queue up to have their tickets checked at Hangzhou East Railway Station in Hangzhou, east China's Zhejiang Province, Sept. 30, 2020. (Photo by Jiang Han/Xinhua)

SHANGHAI, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Chinese citizens started their eight-day golden holiday on Thursday for the National Day and traditional Mid-Autumn Festival.

The superlong holiday is a season of tourism and consumption boom that is set to inject momentum into China's recovering economy.

Amid regular epidemic control, hundreds of millions of Chinese will be traveling for family reunions or leisure staycations after some trying months due to the COVID-19 epidemic.

During the holiday, the total number of domestic tourists nationwide is estimated to reach 550 million, while the total traffic volume of the expressway network is forecasted to reach 408 million and the railway is expected to transport 108 million passengers.

Xu Jie, a 35-year-old photographer with the Shanghai-based Spring Tour travel agency, celebrated the National Day with 15 local tourists. They took a city walk strolling along the Bund, an iconic scenic spot of the metropolis. He guided the visitors to catch sight of the magnificent sunrise on the Huangpu River.

"More and more people are developing a fondness for city walks, which can help them better understand the place. Especially since the outbreak of the COVID-19 epidemic, most people choose not to travel abroad to avoid risks of infection," said Xu.

Spring Tour has launched such city-stroll services in Shanghai to help people develop a deeper understanding of the city's history and culture.

"Photowalks led by Xu sold out quickly after they were launched. City strolls involving coffee tasting or watching performances are also quite popular," said Ke Yiming, marketing manager of Spring Tour. 
Luxury interior design firm and high-end furniture retailer Clive Daniel Home welcomes Lisbeth Linert as Director of Business Development for their Boca Raton location. Ms. Linert brings a wealth of experience and interior design know-how to Clive Daniel, holding several certifications including a Masters Degree in Interior Design from Florida International University, Florida Licensed Interior Designer, Fitwel Ambassador, NCIDQ certificate holder, member of Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW) of Fort Lauderdale / Boca and board member of the South Florida Chapter of the International Interior Design Association (IIDA) as the VP of Advocacy.

Ms. Linerts appointment follows a successful three-year tenure as Director of Business Development and Workforce Strategist at JC White, as well as six years owning her own interior design business and five years as an Interior Design Professor at the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale and Miami International University. Upon receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Interior Design, she moved to New York City where she began her interior design career.

Lisbeth later returned to Florida to pursue her Masters degree, also earning a Masters certificate in environmental studies at Florida International University. Her thesis focused on how interior environments affect the overall health and well-being of its occupants by analyzing both quantitative and qualitative factors. This knowledge and level of research is what Lisbeth utilizes in her work, both previously and in her position with Clive Daniel Home.

A Florida resident for close to 30 years, Lisbeth enjoys mentoring interior design students, volunteering with IIDA and advocating for the interior design industry by promoting education, experience and examination.

For more information about Clive Daniel Home, please visit them online, contact Lisbeth Linert, Director of Business Development, at 561-440-4663 x5536 or email Llinert@clivedaniel.com.

ABOUT CLIVE DANIEL HOME

Clive Daniel Home is located on U.S. 41 in Naples and has won over 360 awards for excellence in creative design since opening in 2011. A second store is located in Boca Raton, Florida.
Proud Boys supporters are wearing t-shirts emblazoned with Donald Trumps stand back and stand by remarks, according to reports.

The far-right groups profile was boosted when the president refused to condemn them during the first presidential debate.

Mr Trump was asked by moderator Chris Wallace if was willing to denounce violence committed by white nationalist groups.

The Proud Boys should "stand back and stand by," Mr Trump said.

"But I'll tell you what, somebody's gotta do something about antifa and the left. This is not a right-wing problem. This is a left-wing problem.

Observers say that the extremist groups leader had taken Mr Trumps remark as support for their violent actions.

Joe Biggs took to Twitter and said: Trump basically said to go f*** them up! This makes me so happy.

President Trump told the proud boys to stand by because someone needs to deal with ANTIFA...well sir! we're ready," Mr Biggs added on Parler.

Mr Biggs also posted an image of a Proud Boys logo with the Stand Back Stand By logo on it.

And the group is also now reportedly selling shirts with Proud Boys, stand back and stand by for $30.99.

The move comes just days after British clothing firm Fred Perry retired its black and yellow polo shirt, which had become an unofficial uniform for the group.

Celebrities took to Twitter following the comments to denounce the president, with Star Wars actor Mark Hammill calling the Proud Boys remarks downright shameful.

Mr Trump downplayed the comments on Wednesday and said he did not know who the Proud Boys were and repeated his call for them to Stand down.
Aviation is set to be involved in putting out fires.

Wildfires broke out in Luhansk region on Wednesday, September 30, after Russian proxy forces made shots toward the forest area.

That's according to the press service of the Stanytsia Luhanska district administration.

"The residents of Stanytsia Luganskaya say that starting at 23:30, incoming large-caliber gunshots were reported from the occupied territory. Loud explosions followed in the area of a crossing checkpoint. At about 00:20, wildfire erupted in the forest close to the checkpoint," the report says.

According to the State Emergency Service, wildfires have already killed four people (three residents and a forester), while 10 people have been hospitalized.

Some 120 people have already been evacuated.

The local authorities are clarifying the damage and the number of destroyed buildings and facilities.

In turn, Chairman of the Luhansk Regional State Administration, Serhiy Haidai, said the authorities were set to involve aviation in putting out wildfires in the area.

"Two planes are ready. We have contacted the Command, requesting 'silence'. As soon as, or if we are ensured 'silence', we immediately launch the aircraft. There may even be a third plane involved," he said.

Read also OSCE monitors report almost 1,400 ceasefire violations since latest truce announcement Wildfires in the east of Ukraine: Background

On September 2, twenty-four dry grass fire hotbeds were spotted in Luhansk region across the area of about 1,200 hectares.

The Joint Forces Operation HQ said the large-scale fires in Luhansk region could be a result of deliberate arson by enemy forces.

Criminal proceedings have been launched into possible arson.

Schools were suspended in Severodonetsk, the town in the immediate proximity to wildfire hotbeds.
Thousands of Houstonians are familiar with his works, but not many know his name.

Local artist David Adickes created the 67-foot tall Sam Houston statue on the way to Huntsville, downtown Houstons 36-foot Virtuoso sculpture and the 20-foot Cornet sculpture in Galveston.

But the 93-year-old artist is far more than a sculptor. Adickes is a painter, author, screenwriter, composer, musician and an astute real estate man with a degree in math and physics. He has traveled all over the world, including the White House.

MORE FROM RYAN NICKERSON: Main Street Theater announces fall virtual tour

Adickes said he continues to live life with an abundance of creativity, focus and passion in his self-constructed River Oaks home studio.

I have too many ideas. I want to do too much stuff, said Adickes. I dont meditate or do anything like that. I just make art.

Getting his start

Adickes was born in 1927 in Huntsville. He played clarinet in the Huntsville High School Band then went to college at Texas A&M. When he moved back to his hometown to attend Sam Houston State Teachers College, he double majored in math and physics.

So here I am, I know that an apple drops from a tree and two and two is four, said Adickes, but I knew that math and physics were not in my heart.

Adickes served in the Air Force in 1945-46, visiting France several times. But he was only exposed to Paris main attractions. It wasnt until he came home from World War II and spent his summer at the Kansas City Art Institute when Adickes decided to use the money from his G. I. Bill to spend two more years in Paris.

The idea that one could choose art as a respectable occupation came vaguely at that time, Adickes said in his biography, Adickes. It was not until Paris and later that I realized you didnt have to think about a good job all the time  that you could do what you wanted instead of what was expected.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Downtown Houston is trying to not look empty. The solution? Public art.

Adickes was the third American to enroll in the newly formed Atelier Fernand Leger studio, along with artists from all over the world. The second American to enroll, and who became Adickes lifelong friend, was Herbert Mears who, Adickes said in his biography, was the first talented person I met who was dead serious about being an artist.

Paris was where Adickes began to grow as an artist, developing his style through the influence of his friends and the beautiful city around him. Adickes painting career took him to Panama, Japan, Spain and Sweden as he studied and painted along the way, bringing back a host of influences.

I dont think of myself as an American artist, said Adickes. I think Im more French. Many things I do is more French than American.

Returning to Houston

After his G.I. Bill ran out in 1950, Adickes came to Houston and opened The Studio of Contemporary Art with Mears.

The two of them really brought that style of the Paris school with them, said Sara Fotlz, owner and director of Foltz Fine Art. They radically changed the contemporary arts scene in Houston at mid-century.

We didnt make any money, said Adickes. But it did allow him to meet all the right people in the art world. Adickes and Mears started having independent shows and selling their work. In December 1951, he was invited to have his first one-man show by the Museum of Fine Arts of Houston.

In 1955, Adickes was commissioned to paint a large historical mural of the city for the then-new Houston Club. That Fall, he was hired to teach in the Art Department of the University of Texas at Austin.

Creating Love Street

But Adickes legacy surpassed art after he created the Love Street Light Circus Feel Good Machine in 1967.

PREVIEW: Get our experts picks for concerts, kids stuff, fine arts, movies and more each week in our entertainment newsletter.

Adickes friends, who owned the building, asked him if he would like to rent out the top floor for an art studio but he initially declined. He decided to look at the space anyway.

When I saw it, that little voice inside of me said youve got to do it, said Adickes.

On New Years Eve in 1966, Adickes was at the Filmore Auditorium in San Francisco, in the middle of what would soon be the blossoming psychedelic period in American art and music

Accompanied by live performances of Jefferson Airplane and Big Brother & The Holding Company, the Filmore Auditorium was the first time Adickes had seen psychedelic projections in his life, which he considered overwhelming.

The crowds were like vertical sardines. You couldnt move, all you could do was look up, said Adickes.

He found his way to the projectors by the stairs, studied them, and the first thing he did when he got back to Houston was to buy three or four overhead projectors.

I bought three plastic bowls, that were for women hair dryers, and I put soapy water and food coloring in each one, he said.

He would splash the water to the beat of the music while theyre overlaying the projector and he soon had a mesmerizing effect.

When he was presented with the opportunity to buy out the third floor of his friends building, the voice in his head told him to start a club with the psychedelic projections. Soon, Love Street was born in Downtown Houston near the University of Houston-Downtown campus.

MORE FROM RYAN NICKERSON: Houston Arboretum bringing in more than 120 goats next month to mow the lawn

It became the hit of the year, remembered Adickes. The club is where ZZ Top first got popular and is remembered to this day with a beer named after it, although Adickes assures there was never any liquor while he was there.

Shifting to sculpting

Adickes was commissioned to make his first monumental sculpture, Virtuoso, in front of downtowns Lyric Center after being a fulltime painter and art instructor for more than two decades

After Adickes made Virtusoso, he still had the connections with the shop that manufactured it and thought, as long as I am here, hell, let me make a couple other things.

First came a 6-foot, half peeled banana, and then the famous 26-foot sculpture of a cornet that is located in Galveston.

Adickes next major project was a statue of George Bush, whom Adickes met in 1965 after he visited the DuBose Gallery where Adickes paintings were displayed, and he partly owned. Bush even purchased one of Adickes paintings of a group of trees.

On February 5, 1987, Adickes sent a letter to then Vice-President Bush, requesting a photo session of no more than 15 minutes, so that he could create him a bronze bust.

But it took two years to finally nail down a time and date to take the photo and by that time, Bush became President. On October 25, 1989, Adickes was invited to stay the night in the White Houses Lincoln Bedroom and took pictures of the president the morning after.

The statue he made of him still stands at Bush Intercontinental Airport.

Among Adickes other notable works include the We Love Houston sign (which is now the We Are All In This Together Sign due to COVID-19) on Dallas St., the giant Beetles heads that can be seen from 8th Wonder Brewery, and of course the giant statue of Sam Houston.

ryan.nickerson@hcnonline.com
Trump administration officials have reframed the goal of the refugee program to conform with Millers view that those seeking humanitarian protections should remain in temporary housing outside the United States until they can safely return to their countries. We are working to assist refugees and other displaced people as close to their homes as possible until they can safely and voluntarily return to rebuild their lives, their communities, and their countries, the State Departments notice to Congress said.
(PHOTO: REUTERS/Edgar Su)

By Abhishek Vishnoi

(Bloomberg) -- Singapore Telecommunications Ltd. named Yuen Kuan Moon as group chief executive officer to succeed Chua Sock Koong, who will retire on January 1 after more than three decades with Southeast Asias biggest telecom operator.

Yuen, currently the companys Chief Digital Officer as well as the CEO of its Singapore consumer business, was appointed after a global search that considered both internal and external candidates for the job, the company said. Yuen, who joined the operator in 1993, has focused on pursuing growth through digital transformation.

One bright spot is adoption of digitalisation, including in the enterprise and consumer sectors, Yuen said in a media briefing on Thursday. We will be ready to take on the new opportunities once the pandemic slows down, he added.

His appointment comes as the coronavirus pandemic has crimped mobile service revenue for some companies in the sector, while accelerating the use of technology and data across the world, with millions of people working online from their homes. Singtel plans to introduce a standalone 5G network next year, while it has also partnered with Grab Holdings Inc. to bid for a full digital banking license in the city-state.

Intensifying Competition

Singtel, which gets more than half its revenue outside Singapore, has been facing intensifying competition in overseas markets, where it has invested in operators including Bharti Airtel Ltd. in India and Australia-based Optus.

The companys net income dropped to S$1.08 billion ($792 billion), the lowest since 1993, in the year ended March. Its share price has declined 35% this year and fell to its lowest level since the global financial crisis last month. It rose as much as 3.3% on Thursday, the most in almost four months, outpacing gains in the countrys benchmark stock index.

With Chuas exit, Singapore will lose one of its most prominent top female executives. Under her leadership, the company stepped up its expansion across the region and pushed into digital businesses such as cloud and cyber security as well as digital marketing.

Yuen is likely to prefer growing the business without acquisitions, Citigroup Inc.s analysts Arthur Pineda and Hussaini Saifee wrote in a note after his promotion was announced. Irrational aggressive spending and price wars are also unlikely to happen under his tenure, they wrote.

 2020 Bloomberg L.P.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. Finally, our diplomacy has recorded a major victory, Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan said on Facebook.

The international community has clearly recorded that the Azerbaijani-Turkish tandem is fighting against Artsakh and Armenia with the help of mercenary-terrorists. Thus, the Artsakh frontline is becoming a civilizational frontline. Artsakh is fighting against the international terrorism, the targets of which are not separated by geopolitical borders.

This terrorism equally threatens the US and Iran, Russia and France, and Artsakh, Armenia and the Armenian people are fighting for global security, the PM said.

Armenia and Artsakh declared a martial law after Azerbaijan launched military operations against Artsakh on September 27 and against Armenia on September 29 with the involvement of Turkey.

Editing and Translating by Aneta Harutyunyan
ATLANTA, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Georgia Power's typical residential customer using 1,000-kilowatt hours per month, will receive an estimated $13 credit on their Georgia Power bill this month. This reflects implementation of a one-time $61.6 million credit for customers, approved in September by the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC), as a result of Georgia Power's 2019 financial results.

Pairing the October credit with lower fuel rates implemented at the start of summer, the typical residential customer will see a reduction of more than $18 this month.

The amount each customer receives will vary based on their 2019 usage. Georgia Power will apply the credit to October bills for customers who had active accounts as of December 31, 2019, and are still active or receiving a final bill as of October 2020. This is the third credit that customers will receive this year, totaling more than $46 for the typical residential customer.

Relief on summer bills

In June, the typical residential customer received an $11.29 credit on their June Georgia Power bill. This credit reflected the implementation of a $51.5 million credit for customers, approved by the Georgia PSC, as a result of Georgia Power's 2018 financial results.

Additionally, the Georgia PSC approved in May, Georgia Power's plan to reduce its fuel rates by 17.2 percent and total billings by approximately $740 million over a two-year period, and lower the total monthly bill by approximately $5.32 for the typical residential customer beginning June 1, 2020. Customers received a special interim reduction to provide additional relief during the COVID-19 pandemic through even lower fuel rates over the 2020 summer months. The lower fuel rate and special interim reduction lowered the total bill of a typical residential customer by a total of $10.26 per month from June through September 2020.

February bill credit due to 2017 tax law savings

Customers also received a credit of approximately $22 on their February Georgia Power bill as a result of the third and final bill credit associated with the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, resulting in credits totaling $106 million.

To learn more about how Georgia Power delivers rates below the national average, cultivates a diverse energy mix to ensure clean, safe, reliable and affordable power, as well as free energy services and programs available for customers, visit www.georgiapower.com.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America's premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company's promise to 2.6 million customers in all but four of Georgia's 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy at rates below the national average, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is consistently recognized by J.D. Power and Associates as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), Twitter (Twitter.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

SOURCE Georgia Power

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Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle (second from left), Lord chancellor Robert Buckland (second from right) and Lord Chief Justice Lord Burnett of Maldon (right) at the Judges Service at Westminster Abbey (Aaron Chown/PA)

Senior judges ushered in the start of the new legal year at Westminster Abbey in a more muted ceremony than usual amid coronavirus restrictions.

Around 100 judges, dignitaries and guests attended the service on Thursday, including the Secretary of State for Justice and Lord Chancellor Robert Buckland, the Lord Chief Justice Lord Burnett and Supreme Court President Lord Reed.

Attorney General Suella Braverman and Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick were also among the guests.

Expand Close Members of the judiciary in attendance at the Judges Service at Westminster Abbey (Aaron Chown/PA) PA / Facebook

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Whatsapp Members of the judiciary in attendance at the Judges Service at Westminster Abbey (Aaron Chown/PA)

The service is held at the abbey each year on October 1 to mark the opening of the legal year.

There are usually about 1,000 people at the service, including judges from across England and Wales  who process into and out of the Abbey in full ceremonial robes and wigs, attended by their clerks.

However, with restrictions to halt the spread of Covid-19 still in place, this years service saw judges wear formal dress, rather than robes, and masks were worn throughout.

The only singing allowed was that of the Westminster Abbey Choir, throughout which the congregation stood or sat in silence.

Expand Close Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle (second from left), Lord chancellor Robert Buckland (second from right) and Lord Chief Justice Lord Burnett of Maldon (right) arrive at the abbey (Aaron Chown/PA) PA / Facebook

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Whatsapp Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle (second from left), Lord chancellor Robert Buckland (second from right) and Lord Chief Justice Lord Burnett of Maldon (right) arrive at the abbey (Aaron Chown/PA)

Reverend Dr David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster, who led the service, gave a sermon which drew on his own fathers career as a solicitor, the notion of justice as a shelter from the wind, and the first reading from the book of Exodus, which was read by Mr Buckland earlier in the service.

Rev Hoyle said the reading describes the escape of the Israeli people from Egypt and includes the passage: You shall not side with the majority so as to pervert justice.

He spoke of the task of judges as one of ceaseless vigilance, adding: We need you more than ever. Those winds are blowing hard and cold.

We are, I think, traipsing back into Egypt, into deeper inequalities.

Rev Hoyle also raised the question of how to communicate a better idea of justice in a community that seems to me to be increasingly hostile and ill-informed.
A San Antonio meat cutter blames his former employers negligence for causing him to have his legs amputated.

Andy Mora, 35, is suing San Antonio-based Merida Foods LLC for more than $1 million in damages. Merida supplies meat to Chachos restaurants.

READ ALSO: H-E-B yanks Swoon Mixers from stores, sues maker over name

Having to work to feed your family shouldnt cost you both of your legs, said Robert C. Hilliard, one of Moras Corpus Christi lawyers. The level of callousness exhibited by Merida is mind-numbing.

A Merida official didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.

Jerry Lara /Staff photographer

Mora, who is diabetic, started at Merida in February 2019. He cut meat and placed it in a tumbler to marinate. He later packaged the meat and placed it in a freezer. He spent the last hour of each shift cleaning the tumbler.

On ExpressNews.com: San Antonio man sues H-E-B after cashier allegedly whacked him with a cucumber

Merida required Mora to wear rubber boots that it provided him. The boots were dirty and unsanitary, his complaint alleges.

Even with the boots, his feet would become soaked from the water used to clean the tumbler, according to attorney T. Christopher Pinedo, who also represents Mora.

Mora developed a blister because Merida didnt provide the proper foot attire for his job, the suit adds. He complained to his supervisor, who is now deceased, about the boots and their unsanitary condition but nothing was done, Pinedo said.

On Sept. 5, 2019, Mora took off his sock to show his supervisor that his left foot had become infected. Four days later, he had surgery to amputate a toe.

Mora informed Merida of the toe amputation when he returned to work wearing a brace on his foot. He had to place a plastic bag on the foot because he couldnt put the boot on over the brace, Pinedo said.

Jerry Lara /Staff photographer

The work environment was such that Mr. Mora developed gangrene in both feet, the suit says. Diabetes is a risk factor for developing gangrene, the Mayo Clinic says on its website.

Feb. 6 was Moras last day on the job. Three days later, he had both legs amputated below the knee.

Instead of spending $100 on a pair of boots that would have saved Andys legs, or just allowing Mr. Mora to wear his own boots, Merida didnt care, Hilliard said. Now, as a result, they have put Mr. Mora in a wheelchair for the rest of his life.

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Regarding Moras responsibility to protect the blister from getting infected, Pinedo said theres probably some level of that.

But his employer knew he was diabetic, Pinedo added. They knew (he) was susceptible to having issues with regard to (his) feet. They were negligent in not providing him better footwear or giving him a different location to work where he was not subjected to constant fluids getting in the boots and remaining there.

Mora, who is unable to work, lives with his father and grandmother, along with six children, on the West Side.

The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages for past and future lost wages, disfigurement, medical expenses and physical pain and impairment. The action was filed last week in state District Court in San Antonio.

The San Antonio office of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration has not received a complaint or investigated Moras allegations against Merida, U.S. Department Labor spokeswoman Chauntra Rideaux said.

Patrick Danner Patrick Danner covers banking, insurance, business litigation and bankruptcies. To read more from Patrick, become a subscriber. pdanner@express-news.net | Twitter: @AlamoPD
All efforts to rope in the CPI-ML



in the RJD-led Grand Alliance in Bihar seem to have failed, with the left-wing party on Wednesday announcing that it would contest 30 of the 71 seats which would go to polls during the first phase of Assembly on October 28.

In a statement, CPI-ML state secretary Kunal said several rounds of talks were held with the RJD, which spearheads the Grand Alliance, but no amicable solution was reached.

The Grand Alliance, also comprising the Congress and the Vikassheel Insaan Party, is yet to release details of its seat-sharing arrangement for the polls.

Kunal said that the CPI(ML) had even agreed to pare its demand to 20 tickets, but the RJD refused to offer seats where the left-wing party held sway, such as Aurangabad, Buxar, Gaya and Nalanda.

"Under such circumstances, the CPI(ML) decided to issue its first list of 30 seats which it would contest on October 28," the statement signed by the party's office secretary, Kunal Parvez, said.

Among the 30 Assembly seats that the party has named are Paliganj, Sandesh, Masaurhi, Phulwarisharif, Arrah, Ghosi, Hilsa and Kurtha.

The opposition Grand Alliance has, over the past few weeks, lost two of its allies -- Hindustani Awam Morcha of former chief minister Jitan Ram Manjhi and RLSP of former union minister Upendra Kushwaha. The coalition had pinned hopes on Left parties -- CPI, CPM and CPI-ML.

Currently, the CPI(ML) has three MLAs in the outgoing Assembly. The party enjoys considerable support in parts of central Bihar.

Assembly polls will be held in three phases in Bihar



on October 28, November 3 and November 7. The results will be declared on November 10.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Even as the Central government was busy getting legislative clearances for three Bills meant to liberalise Indias agricultural trade during the curtailed monsoon session of Parliament, a couple of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) in Tamil Nadu were sitting pretty on the contracts bagged from bulk buyers. While Pasumai Groundnut Producer Company Ltd, Trichy, has an agreement for groundnut cultivation on 500 acres of land for export to Malaysia, Greeners Agro Products gets farmers to cultivate red bananas on 150 acres. The direct linkage between the farmer and the buyer, and the role of FPOs that stitch together such contracts, along with the freedom to trade any quantity of agricultural produce within the country and abroad - the key objective of the three farm Bills passed in Parliament - was already on display in the southern state.

"If you look at the Bills from the FPOs' point of view, it is a boon. It allows large-scale aggregation and large-scale trading without the restrictions of mandis (existing markets). FPOs can go for higher volumes of aggregation and marketing. It sets the right ground," says E. Vadivel, Strategic Advisor, Tamil Nadu Consortium of Farmer Producer Company Ltd, a state-level apex producer company that supports and serves its member FPOs, including the ones who have bagged the groundnut and banana cultivation contracts.

Tamil Nadu has an early mover advantage. It was among the first states to enact the Contract Agreement Act. The state has about 700 FPOs, one tenth of the around 7,000 FPOs currently registered in the country, says Vadivel. So, there are farmer-led organisations in other states, too, who find the situation advantageous. While it is a good sign to see farmers getting prepared for a life beyond traditional marketing avenues, their presence is too insignificant when one considers the size and scale of Indian agriculture. There lies the challenge and scope of the new Bills. It also explains the farmer agitations going on in different parts of the country, especially in Punjab and Haryana, against the Bill.

The New Order

On June 5, the government passed three Ordinances meant to bypass existing laws that govern agriculture trade in the country. It eased procurement of foodgrains and other agricultural produce during the pandemic-linked lockdown. Three months later, in the third week of September, three Bills were brought in to get legislative approvals for these ordinances and thereby enact them as laws. The first one, The Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill, 2020, allows farmers and traders to sell and purchase farmers' produce through alternative channels outside regulated APMC markets (mandis), without paying fees or levies to the state government. The second, The Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020, provides a national framework for contract farming agreements with agri-business firms, processors, wholesalers, exporters or large retailers for farm services and sale of future farming produce within a mutually agreed remunerative price framework. The third one, The Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill, 2020, gives the Centre powers to regulate the supply of certain food items, including cereals, pulses, potato, onion, edible oilseeds and oil only under extraordinary circumstances such as war, famine, extraordinary price rise and natural calamity of grave nature .

The Positives

"FPOs are happy. Even bulk buyers and corporates are also very happy with the situation," says Pravesh Sharma, Funder, National Association for Farmer Producer Organisations (NAFPO), a multi-stakeholder platform with FPOs, corporates and NGOs as members.

Many others also share his views. Ashok Prasad, CEO and Co-founder, Unnati, a fintech-based agri platform, terms it "a revolutionary step in transforming the agriculture sector and enabling farmers to become more competitive."

Broking firm Motilal Oswal says the changes will bring in greater competition amongst buyers, lower mandi fees and commission for arthiyas (commission agents), and reduce other cess that many states have imposed on APMC (Agriculture Produce Marketing Committee) markets. "These reforms have the potential of opening up many private mandis that are far more efficient, automated and mechanised, thereby replacing age-old practices in state-sponsored mandis. Contract farming would provide farmers access to modern technology, ready markets for his agri produce and better inputs. As private sector participation increases over the years, the Indian agriculture sector's supply chain and infrastructure would improve," Motilal Oswal research analysts concluded in an investor note.

The Concerns

Then why are farmers protesting?

Kiran Vissa, Co-convenor of National Alliance for Sustainable Agriculture, an entity in the forefront of protests against the Bills, says they should be called "APMC Market Collapse Bill", "Contract Farming Promotion Bill" and "Corporate Hoarding of Food Commodities Bill" as that is what the reforms will lead to.

According to Vissa, since the day the ordinance was promulgated, the arrival of farm produce to APMC markets has seen a reduction. "From June to August, there has been a significant reduction in mandi arrivals. Part of it could be due to the lockdown, but it also shows that traders operating within the mandi have started to procure from outside to save on charges and levies."

The eventual collapse of government-controlled markets will not help farmers, he adds. The prices farmers fetch in Bihar where APMC mandis were dismantled 14 years ago are still subdued. "If APMC mandis collapse, then a Bihar-kind of situation can get replicated in other places also. The government is washing its hands off this responsibility by saying we are giving freedom to companies and farmers to negotiate and come up with a good price." Farmers, he says, are too weak to negotiate a fair deal with big buyers. The removal of food items from the Essential Commodities Act is likely to lead to stocking up of primary food produce by players with deep pockets to maximise profits. The plight of small and marginal farmer will be particularly bad if they are not helped to make use of the new system.

In a recent study, Azim Premji University researchers Richa Govil, Annapurna Neti and Madhushree R. Rao have pointed out that around 7,000 farmer producer companies covering over 4.3 million small producers in the country represent only a fraction of agricultural households. These numbers need to more than double over the next few years to cover 10 per cent of agricultural households in India, according to the study. In fact, 50 per cent of such firms are located in just four states, whereas there are 32 districts in the country with over 1 lakh farmers, but not farmer producer companies. The fact that 49 per cent of such companies have a paid- up capital of Rs 1 lakh or less points to the need for financial resources to support organisations.

"All the recent efforts of the government are to liberalise agricultural economy and open it for the global market. Most of these concepts, including that of FPOs, have come from other countries. But before those countries opened up their agricultural sector, they had such institutions already in place. They had prepared the ground, prepared their farmers, before they reformed. Unfortunately, that did not happen here," says Yogesh Dwivedi, CEO, Madhya Bharat Consortium of FPOs. With 155 FPOs on board in six years, he still finds it tough to compete with big buyers.

"We have a network of 2.24 lakh farmers, but our capital base is not very strong. We don't have storage facilities. There aren't enough rural agri-business professionals to guide our FPOs. Now that you have opened the markets, how will we win the race? World over farmers have 100-200 hectres of land. In India we are even less than one hectre," he adds. "Big players can set up infrastructure, we cannot. Even if we enter into contract farming with big players, it may not be on our terms. You have to empower farmers and FPOs, only then they will be able to get the benefit of reforms. Otherwise it will go to a few big players."

The Solution

Dwivedi wants large-scale automation to manage the entire purchasing system for a level-playing field. "Today there is no transparency. It is completely based on human discretion, and is a non-transparent selection. The infrastructure should be set up by the government... Otherwise small farmers and FPOs will be taken for a ride. It is unfair competition at the moment," he adds.

Some are in favour of strengthening APMCs as well. Chetna Gala Sinha, Founder, Mann Seshi, which promotes an all-women farmer producer company, Mann Deshi Kisan Producer Group in Maharashtra, says: "APMCs are the closest to farmers. Make them professional. This is an opportunity."

Mann Seshi Foundation and NAFPO have asked the agriculture ministry to ensure five enabling conditions for the success of these reforms. These include availability of institutional credit, storage and collection centres at the village level, use of technology to make the produce more competitive, encouragement to export surplus produce and establishment of institutions for capacity building at the FPO level.

Former Agriculture Secretary Siraj Hussain says the impact of the reforms will be first seen in basmati rice. "The basmati paddy is likely to move out of the APMC, so the impact should come immediately. Whether basmati farmers get higher prices or not is the question."

With another bumper crop expected - the first advance estimates of production of major Kharif crops released on September 22 suggest a record 144.52 million tonnes of foodgrain production in the 2020-21 crop season - any early positive signals can bring in a major shift in the farmers approach towards the new system. And therein lies its success.

@joemathew
The Borat 2 trailer released Thursday reveals Sacha Baron Cohen was the Trump impersonator who crashed Mike Pence's speech at CPAC in February

At the time police escorted the impersonator off the premises but it wasn't known who was behind the Trump mask

The hilarious sequel follows Borat Sagdiyev's journey to the US seeking to marry off his daughter to 'someone close to the throne' in the Trump administration

Trailer ends with Baron Cohen bursting into the Republican convention with his daughter over his shoulder shouting to Pence, 'I've got the girl for you!'

The hilarious trailer to Borat 2 released Thursday reveals Sacha Baron Cohen was the Trump impersonator who crashed Mike Pences CPAC speech.

The film follows Kazakhstani character Borat Sagdiyev's journey to the US where he wears a fat suit and a Donald Trump face mask and bursts his way into the 2020 Conservative Political Action Conference convention in February.

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Baron Cohen is seen carrying his daughter in the film over his shoulder and shouts to Pence: 'Michael Pennis Ive brought the girl for you!'

The hilarious trailer to Borat 2 released Thursday reveals Sacha Baron Cohen was the Trump impersonator who crashed Mike Pences CPAC speech in February. Baron Cohen pictured in a Trump mask and suit with his daughter in the movie over his shoulder shouting, 'Michael Pennis Ive brought the girl for you!'

Pence is seen giving Baron Cohen an angry glare for the interruption, about ten minutes into his speech at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in Maryland

At the time of the outburst no one knew who the impersonator who crashed the convention was. Baron Cohen pictured wearing a Trump mask and suit in his grand entrance

At the time the outburst made headlines and the impersonator was escorted out of the conference at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in Maryland after shouting about ten minutes into the speech about Trump.

Only now its revealed that Baron Cohen was the person behind the Trump costume.

In the sequel Borat seeks to gift his daughter to 'someone close to the throne' in the Trump administration, likely meaning Pence in the chaotic scene.

And the CPAC outburst isnt Baron Cohens sole foray into politics in the film.

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Borat pictured dressing up as Trump for his political prank in the film

Borat pictured putting on his Trump mask complete with a blonde wig for his outburst

Baron Cohen shouted several statements about Trump and his daughter in the movie before security rushed him out

Pence continued his speech at the convention despite the prank and police escorted Baron Cohen off the premises

Baron Cohen was filmed back in July at a far-right rally getting attendees to sing along to a song about wanting to inject people like Dr. Anthony Fauci with coronavirus.

Former New York Mayor and Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani said in July he called the police after Baron Cohen tried to prank him.

Throughout much of the trailer the actor pokes fun at the coronavirus pandemic and Republican voters and politicians.

Other highlights from the trailer show Borat decide to get a disguise after realizing hes too recognizable and purchase a fat suit saying, 'I take this to be fat like American man.'

Looking at other outfits on display Borat asks if Harry Potter is a is 'a sex offender'.

Borat later asks a stranger outside a store if he can quarantine with them during the coronavirus lockdown crisis.

In the trailer Borat travels to the US and purchases a fat suit, saying: 'I take this to be fat like American man.'

Elsewhere during the trailer, the character decides to get a disguise after he is too recognizable to the public and he goes to a costume shop, where he asks if Harry Potter is a 'sex offender'

Ahem! Prior to the trailer release, Sacha posed for an extremely risque poster for the upcoming Borat 2 movie, ahead of its release on October 23 on Amazon Prime

Wearing a thong at the man's home and dancing, Borat asks: 'What's more dangerous... this virus or democrats?' to which the person and his friend both reply: 'Democrats!'

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Borat then tries to kill the coronavirus with a hammer on the wall, to which the man explains you 'can't see it' and instead encourages him to spray Covid with an anti-bac spray.

The second Borat movie entitled The Borat Subsequent Moviefilm: Delivery of Prodigious Bribe to American Regime for Make Benefit Once Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan was filmed in secret and is set to be released by Amazon on October 23, less than two weeks before the 2020 presidential election.

Playing with poltics is a recurring theme in the comedians work.

His 2018 show This is America sees him play different characters and trick political names including former Vice President Dick Cheney, former Alabama Chief Justice Roy Moore, and former Republican Illinois Rep. Joe Walsh.

His pranks led Georgia State Rep. Jason Spencer to resign after Cohen tricked him into shouting the n-word and exposing his buttocks in a fake counter-terrorism training exercise.
DURHAM, N.C., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The Duke Clinical Research Institute (DCRI), in partnership with the Center for Health Equity Research at UNC-Chapel Hill and Community-Campus Partnerships for Health, has received an $80 million award to serve as the coordinating and data collection center for a four-year program that will overcome barriers and increase uptake of testing among underserved and vulnerable populations across the U.S.

The program, funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is one arm of a wider billion-dollar effort called Rapid Acceleration of Diagnostics (RADx). The arm to be coordinated by the DCRI and its partners is called Rapid Acceleration of Diagnostics for Underserved Populations (RADx-UP).

The RADx-UP program will support research that aims to better understand COVID-19 testing patterns among underserved and vulnerable populations; strengthen the data on disparities in infection rates, disease progression, and outcomes; and develop strategies to reduce the disparities in COVID-19 testing.

"It is critical that all Americans have access to rapid, accurate diagnostics for COVID-19, especially underserved and vulnerable populations who are bearing the brunt of this disease," said NIH Director Francis S. Collins, MD, PhD. "The RADx-UP program will help us better understand and alleviate the barriers to testing for those most vulnerable and reduce the burden of this disease."

The program's core components will center on community engagement to build robust and sustainable programs that advance COVID-19 testing. Objectives of RADx-UP include:

Creation of a community-centered, flexible program infrastructure;

Support of a participatory and inclusive community engagement program;

Support of research projects through COVID-19 testing guidance and emerging science; and

Collection, harmonization, integration, and dissemination of data to local and scientific communities.

The program is overseen by a diverse leadership team that includes Michael Cohen-Wolkowiez, MD, PhD, head of pediatric research at the DCRI; Warren Kibbe, PhD, chief of translational biomedical informatics for Duke's Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics; Giselle Corbie-Smith, MD, MSc, the founder and director of the UNC Center for Health Equity Research; and Al Richmond, MSW, executive director of Community-Campus Partnerships for Health.

"Working with our partners and the NIH, we will introduce customized programs that help communities expand testing for their residents, many of whom are being disproportionately impacted by the novel coronavirus," Cohen-Wolkowiez said. "We are proud to support this national response with innovative clinical research and community-based outreach to help improve outcomes for our most vulnerable patients."

Racial and ethnic minorities that will be served by the RADx-UP program include African Americans, American Indians/Alaskan Natives, Latinos/Latinas, and Native Hawaiians.

"Health disparities have always been a critical issue, and today these challenges are amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic," said Corbie-Smith. "Structural inequalities have led to higher rates of comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease or diabetes for racial and ethnic minorities, putting them at increased risk of contracting severe cases of COVID-19. Therefore, we've seen both higher infection rates and mortality rates in these communities."

Also as part of the program, researchers will also work to address challenges faced by other underserved and vulnerable populations such as older adults, those who are incarcerated, pregnant women, and those experiencing homelessness.

"We look forward to partnering with Duke and UNC-Chapel Hill on this important work," Richmond said. "At Community-Campus Partnerships for Health, our mission is to foster partnership between communities and academic institutions to promote health equity and social justice, and our participation in RADx-UP presents an outstanding opportunity to deliver on this mission."

About the Duke Clinical Research Institute

The Duke Clinical Research Institute (DCRI), part of the Duke University School of Medicine, is the largest academic clinical research organization in the world. Our mission is to develop, share, and implement knowledge that improves global health through innovative clinical research. The Institute conducts multinational clinical trials, manages major national patient registries, and performs landmark outcomes research. The DCRI is a pioneer in cardiovascular and pediatric clinical research, and conducts groundbreaking clinical research across multiple other therapeutic areas, including infectious diseases, neuroscience, respiratory medicine, and nephrology.

About the UNC Center for Health Equity Research

The UNC Center for Health Equity Research (CHER) brings together collaborative, multidisciplinary teams of stakeholders to improve health in North Carolina communities with a shared commitment to innovation, collaboration, and health equity. This shared commitment serves as a bridge among their disciplines and levels of experience. CHER members generate new knowledge and contribute to the science of engagement and health equity research, thus driving innovation in collaboration with communities to improve well-being.

About Community-Campus Partnerships for Health

Established in 1997, Community-Campus Partnerships for Health (CCPH) is a nonprofit membership organization that promotes health equity and social justice through partnerships between communities and academic institutions. We view health broadly as physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being and emphasize partnership approaches to health that focus on changing the conditions and environments in which people live, work, study, pray, and play. By mobilizing knowledge, providing training and technical assistance, conducting research, building coalitions, and advocating for supportive policies, we help to ensure that the reality of community engagement and partnership matches the rhetoric.

This news release was issued on behalf of Newswise(TM). For more information, visit http://www.newswise.com.

SOURCE Duke Health

Related Links

https://dcri.org


A Markham teen has landed the titular role in the upcoming Disney Plus series Ms. Marvel.

Iman Vellani, 18, will take on the coveted role of Kamala Khan, a Muslim teen from Jersey City who develops super powers  including the ability to shapeshift and extend her limbs.

Vellani announced the news in an Instagram post on Sept. 30 writing, Speechless and excited! Wish me luck. #msmarvel.

Ms. Marvel made her first appearance back in 2013 in Captain Marvel No. 14, and went on to debut in her own series as Marvels first Muslim character to headline her own comic book.

Vellani joins fellow Canadians Simu Liu, appearing as Marvels first major Asian superhero in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, slated for summer 2021 cinematic release, and Tatiana Maslany, who will be the lead in the Disney Plus She-Hulk series.

Vellani was previously part of the Toronto International Film Festivals Next Wave Committee made up of young film enthusiasts ranging in age from 15 to 18. This is also her first major Hollywood role  indeed, her first credit on IMDB.com.

Correction - Oct. 2, 2020: This article was edited from a previous version that referred to an incorrect Instagram account.

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SAN DIEGO - The Trump administration has proposed further slashing the number of refugees the United States accepts to a new record low in the coming year.

In a notice sent to Congress late Wednesday, just 34 minutes before a statutory deadline to do so, the administration said it intended to admit a maximum of 15,000 refugees in fiscal year 2021. Thats 3,000 fewer than the 18,000 ceiling the administration had set for fiscal year 2020, which expired at midnight Wednesday.

The proposal will now be reviewed by Congress, where there are strong objections to the cuts, but lawmakers will be largely powerless to force changes.

The more than 16.5% reduction was announced shortly after President Donald Trump vilified refugees as an unwanted burden at a campaign rally in Duluth, Minnesota, where he assailed his opponent, former Vice-President Joe Biden. He claimed Biden wants to flood the state with foreigners.

Biden will turn Minnesota into a refugee camp, and he said that  overwhelming public resources, overcrowding schools and inundating hospitals. You know that. Its already there. Its a disgrace what theyve done to your state, Trump told supporters.

Trump froze refugee admissions in March amid the coronavirus pandemic, citing a need to protect American jobs as fallout from the coronavirus crashed the economy.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the administration is committed to the countrys history of leading the world in providing a safe place for refugees.

We continue to be the single greatest contributor to the relief of humanitarian crisis all around the world, and we will continue to do so, Pompeo told reporters in Rome on the sidelines of a conference on religious freedom organized by the U.S. Embassy. Certainly so long as President Trump is in office, I can promise you this administration is deeply committed to that.

But advocates say the governments actions do not show that. Since taking office, Trump has slashed the number of refugees allowed into the country by more than 80%, reflecting his broader efforts to drastically reduce both legal and illegal immigration.

The U.S. allowed in just over 10,800 refugees  a little more than half of the 18,000 cap set by Trump for 2020  before the State Department suspended the program because of the coronavirus.

The 18,000 cap was already the lowest in the history of the program. In addition, the State Department announced last week that it would no longer provide some statistical information on refugee resettlement, sparking more concerns.

Advocates say the Trump administration is dismantling a program that has long enjoyed bipartisan support and has been considered a model for protecting the worlds most vulnerable people.

Scores of resettlement offices have closed because of the drop in federal funding, which is tied to the number of refugees placed in the U.S.

And the damage is reverberating beyond American borders as other countries close their doors to refugees as well.

Were talking about tens of millions of desperate families with no place to go and having no hope for protection in the near term, said Krish Vignarajah, president of the Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, a federally funded agency charged with resettling refugees in the United States.

Bisrat Sibhatu, an Eritrean refugee, does not want to think about the possibility of another year passing without reuniting with his wife.

For the past 2 1/2 years, he has called the caseworker who helped him resettle in Milwaukee every two weeks to inquire about the status of his wifes refugee case.

The answer is always the same  nothing to report.

My wife is always asking me: Is there news? said Sibhatu, who talks to her daily over a messaging app. Its very tough. How would you feel if you were separated from your husband? Its not easy. I dont know what to say to her.

He said the couple fled Eritreas authoritarian government and went to neighbouring Ethiopia, which hosts more than 170,000 Eritrean refugees and asylum-seekers. Between 2017 and 2019, his wife, Ruta, was interviewed, vetted and approved to be admitted to the United States as a refugee. Then everything came to a halt.

Sibhatu, who works as a machine operator at a spa factory, sends her about $500 every month to cover her living expenses in Ethiopia.

I worry about her, about her life, Sibhatu said, noting Ethiopias spiraling violence and the pandemic. But there is nothing we can do.

He hopes his wife will be among the refugees who make it to the United States in 2021.

___

Lee reported from Washington.
The next presidential debate may give moderator Steve Scully the ability to turn off Donald Trump's microphone but some fear that won't stop the president from interrupting and talking over Joe Biden like he did in their first meeting.

The two candidates will face each other next on October 15 in Miami for a town-hall style debate moderated by the C-SPAN host.

The rules of engagement will be different at that meeting, the Commission on Presidential Debates announced on Wednesday, in an attempt to curb the chaos from Tuesday night's debate, which was compared to a dumpster fire.

The two-week window gives the commission some breathing room to consider their options.

One getting serious consideration is giving the moderator the ability to mute the president, according to reports.

Whatever the new rules are the campaigns will have no say in them.

The next presidential debate may give moderator Steve Scully of C-SPAN the ability to turn off President Donald Trump's microphone

The Commission on Presidential Debates is weighing new rules for President Donald Trump and Democratic nominee Joe Biden - which neither campaign would be allowed to negotiate

'THE FAIREST MAN IN D.C.' FACES BIGGEST NIGHT OF HIS CAREER Steve Scully might be little known to those who do not tune in to C-SPAN but to those who do he is known for his scrupulous evenhandedness. Scully, 60, is the network's senior executive producer and political editor, and for viewers, the host of Washington Journal, its morning call-in show. Although it does not attract mass ratings it is vital viewing for political insiders trying to take the temperature of the nation, as well as a place for political figures to appear if they want to try to set the D.C. agenda. Most of all it is TV's only national call-in show on politics. Callers are screened by ideology with separate numbers for Republicans, Democrats and independents, and often express robust and unexpected views. The Trump campaign's belief it could win in the mid-West was partly based on disaffected former Obama supporters calling in to Washington Journal. Scully is known for his calm approach, never expressing a personal view, and his ability to listen. Comedian John Oliver called him 'the most patient man in television.'

He has been C-Span political editor since 1990, having worked in local television. Scully's political views are unknown but he did however volunteer for the Jimmy Carter campaign in 1976, aged 16, and worked for Joe Biden, as a mail room intern in 1978 and Ted Kennedy as a media intern in 1979 - both before he graduated college. He has said he was brought up with a Republican father and Democratic mother and since becoming a journalist, has never been known to express a partisan view. A devout Catholic father of four with wife Katie, he is the 14th of 16 children from Erie, PA - his parents had five sets of twins - and is on the board of two charities for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, having lost a baby daughter in 1996. Advertisement

The campaigns will be informed of the new rules but they will not be subject to negotiation, a source told CBS News.

Neither candidate nor their campaigns have commented on the possible changes. It appears the initial rules will remain in place for the vice presidential debate in Salt Lake City on Tuesday between Mike Pence and Kamala Harris.

Chris Wallace, the Fox News host who moderated the first debate, said he feared not even muting Trump's microphone would have stopped the president from talking.

'As a practical matter, even if the president's microphone had been shut, he still could have continued to interrupt, and it might well have been picked up on Biden's microphone, and it still would have disrupted the proceedings in the hall,' he told The New York Times.

And he worried about how supporters of the candidates would react if a moderator cut their microphone.

'People have to remember, and too many people forget, both of these candidates have the support of tens of millions of Americans,' he said.

Scully, in an interview with Erie News Now conducted just before the revelation of a possible rule change had said that he expected the town hall format to be like his Washington Journal show, which combines interviews and phone-in segments - and joked about the lack of a mute button.

'The only difference is that I have the ability to hit the mute button, so I'm able to do that on the Washington Journal, not so much in a debate,' he said.

But Scully being equipped with a mute button poses a number of technical challenges from a television production standpoint.

Another option under consideration is to penalize an interrupting candidate by forcing them to yield more time back to the opponent.

The next debate is the vice presidential one on October 7 in Salt Lake City.

The next presidential one in Miami will feature undecided voters asking questions of the candidates. There will be only 15-20 people in the hall asking questions due to coronavirus restrictions.

The third and final debate will be in Nashville on October 22 and moderated by Kristen Welker of NBC News. It will have the same format as Tuesday night's debate.

Wallace's advice to Scully and Welker: 'If either man goes down this road, I hope you'll be quicker to realize what's going on than I was. I didn't have that advance warning.'

The Commission on Presidential Debates said Wednesday it was 'clear that additional structure should be added to the format of the remaining debates to ensure a more orderly discussion of the issues.'

Currently, each candidate is given the opportunity to speak for two minutes - supposedly uninterrupted - in response to a moderator's question, before being allowed to respond to one another.

Trump routinely flouted those rules on Tuesday, despite agreeing abide by them before the showdown commenced.

The changes will be announced 'shortly,' the commission said, declining to comment further.

In his first remarks after the crazy evening, Biden described Trump as a 'national embarrassment' and said he hopes the format is changed to the president's mic can be turned off when needed.

Fox News' Chris Wallace, who moderated the first debate, said he feared even turning off President Donald Trump's microphone would stop him from talking

'I can understand it. I kind of thought at one point, and maybe I shouldn't say this, but the president of the United States conducting himself the way he did, I think it was just a national embarrassment,' Biden said Wednesday at a stop on his train tour of Ohio and Pennsylvania.

Biden confirmed he will participate in the following two debates and floated the idea of using technology to rein in Trump.

'I just hope there's a way in which the debate commission can control the ability of us to answer the question without interruption,' he said, suggesting his microphone be muted if the president interrupts him.

President Trump complained about Wallace not allowing him to land a glove on Biden during Tuesday's debate.

'I said "Sleepy Joe, name one law enforcement group that supports [you]" and then Chris Wallace says, "Don't do that." Can you believe? This guy,' Trump said.

The president also blamed Wallace for not being able to fully deploy an attack Biden's only living son, Hunter, who Trump smacked for his foreign business dealings.

'Protected by Chris,' Trump sniped. '"We don't want to discuss that,"' he said, mimicking the moderator. 'Oh really Chris? It's so sad.'

The president lumped Wallace in with the rest of the mainstream media during his Wednesday remarks.

'The liberal media is upset that I took the fight to Biden and exposed his dangerous agenda,' Trump said.

The president, meanwhile, also indicated he would be at the next presidential debate.

'I would like to,' he told reporters at the White House Wednesday before he left for Minnesota. 'We won the debate by almost every poll that I saw.'

He added of Biden: 'I don't mind debating him. I hear that he wants to get out of the debates. I don't know. That's up to him.'

The first presidential debate barely kicked off Tuesday evening before it devolved into a chaotic mess as the two candidates began name calling, fighting and cross-talking  ignoring pleas from Wallace to stand down.

'Would you shut up, man?,' a visibly exasperated Biden said about 20 minutes into the debate after Trump interrupted him.

Trump relentlessly went after Biden  frequently cutting him off mid-sentence.

Biden, determined not to get out-muscled and mindful of Trump's slashing 2016 attacks on Hillary Clinton, came armed with his own insults  branding Trump a 'liar' and a 'clown' and also 'a racist'  but sometimes merely sat back and smiled amid Trump's own charges.

During one exchange, Biden told the president to 'shut up.' Later he said 'you're the worst president that America has ever had.'

Trump, for his part, brought up Biden's son Hunter's past cocaine use and inaccurately accused him of getting a dishonorable discharge from the Navy. He called his rival a 'socialist,' and repeatedly tried to tar him with 'radical' elements like Antifa.

Wallace repeatedly lectured Trump, telling him 'I'm the moderator of this debate' at one point. His efforts were mostly fruitless.
Massachusetts is known for its historic buildings and churches but some of these houses of worship are getting a very modern update as they turn to solar power.

In 2019, at least 64 houses of worship in the commonwealth had solar installations in operation, according to a report from Interfaith Power and Light. The numbers were up 14% from 2017 and only trailed behind California, which had 190 congregations, according to the report.

Following Massachusetts, Washington D.C. had 55 houses of worship with solar installations in operation and, Indiana had 48.

While science and the environment might not feel like a religious issue at first, Massachusetts Interfaith Power & Light, or MassIPL, president, Jim Nail said it goes together perfectly.

If God is creating this and pronouncing it good, people of faith should not go around polluting it, he said.

Its also important to help the poor or those who are suffering, he added, which climate change directly affects.

If through our burning of fossil fuels to heat our buildings and light our buildings were contributing to climate change, and that climate change is causing the suffering, then we need to take responsibility for that and do what we can to minimize and hopefully eliminate our contribution to the suffering that causes," he said.

Massachusetts also has good incentives and policies to encourage solar panels, he said. But one of the biggest hurdles is understanding it all.

Houses of worship generally have volunteer boards, who have limited time and limited expertise. And if somethings too complicated like this, it tends to get kicked down the road, he said. So, were able to fill that gap.

Even during the coronavirus pandemic, when much of church leaders attention is preoccupied and some projects had to be put on hold, Nail was able to schedule time to meet with some of them about this project.

For some communities where solar power might be a new idea, its not always a simple path though.

First Parish in Bedford, a Unitarian Universalist church, spent three years fighting to put solar panels on their historic building.

The plan was part of a three phase approach to improve the buildings environmental impact, said Karl Winkler, an engineer and member of First Parish.

Being located in the towns historic district, the Historic District Commission was apprehensive about the idea.

The church proved its building had been modified and changed in other ways long before the Historic District Commission, Winkler said.

The roof itself is not historic to the building, he said.

They also attempted to disprove some of the stereotypes around solar panels.

I think a lot of people when they think of solar panels its like these kind of almost futuristic giant reflective things, Winkler said.

Instead, Winkler researched the best options that could hide the solar panels from plain sight.

Still, the Historic District Commission said no. But that didnt stop First Parish.

Instead, with the help from Sherin and Lodgen law firm in Boston, the church took the Historic District Commission to court.

Its not a great way to win friends, said the Rev. John Gibbons, senior minister of First Parish, adding that it was especially hard in such a small town.

The court asked the Historic District Commission to provide reasoning for why the church couldnt add solar panels, Gibbons said.

The historic district commission went back and they came up with a dozen reasons why we shouldnt have solar panels, none of which had been addressed in the public hearings, he said.

That wasnt good enough for the courts, and the church was allowed to proceed with the panels.

The ironic thing, Gibbons added, is that a lot of people probably arent even aware theyre there.

I bet there are a lot of people who dont know that there are solar panels on this building," he said. "They were done in a really very aesthetic way.

Now Gibbons wants other towns and churches or businesses in historic buildings to see that this is possible  and important.

It was not blasphemy to put on solar panels but, in fact, it is indicative that we are living institution and that we are trying to live our values, Gibbons said. And this is consistent with who we are as a religious community.

Since then, the church has used their method for installing the solar panels as a recommendation for how they should be added to the local schools, Winkler said. They also hope to be an inspiration to other churches to fight what they believe in.

Its a cautionary tale to town government that town government cannot be insular. It cannot resist important cultural changes and environmentalism, Gibbons said. We have to find a way for environmentalism to work in New England. We may love our history but we also love our environment.

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Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 09:27:12|Editor: huaxia

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COLOMBO, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- President of the Sri Lanka-China Friendship Association (SLCFA) has congratulated China on its 71st National Day on Thursday, saying China's achievement has shown countries "alternative models of development."

"The rise of China is important for us for many reasons," said Ananda Goonatilleke, in a statement released Wednesday, adding that it has shown us that there are alternative models of development.

Noting that China respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of its partners, Goonatilleke said "we wish the People's Republic of China and the Communist Party of China for opening up a new phase of developments in international politics and supporting nations like Sri Lanka to protect the unitary nature and sovereignty of our countries."

Sri Lanka has vehemently supported China's social, economic and military development since the liberation marked on Oct. 1, 1949, while China has given Sri Lanka diplomatic, economic and military assistance in its times of need, he said.

The SLCFA also condemned all U.S. restrictions imposed on China and other independent nations and said the people of Sri Lanka stood with China against hegemonic threats from the United States. Enditem
Operatives of the State Security Service (SSS) have attacked some #RevolutionNow protesters in Osogbo, the Osun State capital.

The protesters who converged in their hundreds at Nelson Mandela Park, Old Garage, Osogbo, were first dispersed with teargas around 9 a.m. on Thursday.

After they regrouped, some armed SSS officials again visited the scene and 11 protesters were arrested.

The arrested individuals were thereafter taken to the office of the SSS where they were briefly detained for over one hour. Those detained told PREMIUM TIMES that they were assaulted by the operatives.

One of them  Pedro Omolola  told our correspondent that she was repeatedly slapped by security officials while her colleagues were severely injured.

The SSS officials came fully armed to disrupt the #RevolutionNow protest. Myself and 10 others were arrested and taken to their custody. We were brutalised and injured.

SSS arrests, brutalises #RevolutionNow protesters in Osun protesters after being dispersed

I was slapped repeatedly by officials alongside other protesters who were severely injured, she recounted.

Another protester  Aliu Gbadebo  decried police molestation.

No civil country uses police against its people, he said.

When contacted, spokesperson of the SSS, Peter Afunanya, did not respond to PREMIUM TIMES calls and text messages on the incident.

This newspaper earlier reported that the Coalition for Revolution (CORE)  organisers of the #RevolutionNow protest  had vowed to hold mass action against poor governance in Nigeria on October 1. This is despite a warning by the police that the protest should not hold.

Nigerian law allows for peaceful protest and the court had ruled that a police permit was not necessary for peaceful protests.

The group which is led by a former presidential candidate and Sahara Reporters publisher, Omoyele Sowore, had its first major protest on August 5, 2019, and the second edition on the same date this year.
CHICAGO, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the new market research report "Waterproofing Membranes Market by Raw Material, Type (Liquid Applied, Sheet Based), Usage (New Construction, Refurbishment), Application (Building Structure, Roofing, Roadways, Waste & Water Management, Walls), and Region- Global Forecast to 2025", published by MarketsandMarkets, the global Waterproofing Membranes Market size is estimated at USD 33.5 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach USD 38.8 billion by 2025, at a CAGR of 5.4%.

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The demand for waterproofing membranes in emerging economies, such as APAC, MEA, and South America, is increasing owing to the growth in the construction industry. The fluctuation in raw material prices is challenging the Waterproofing Membranes Market. The demand for waterproofing membranes is rising, owing to the growing demand for cost-effective and efficient waterproofing materials. This increase in demand for environment-friendlywaterproofing membranesand the construction of green buildings provides growth opportunities to the market. On the other hand, the potential health and environmental issues are the major restrain for the market.

Based on the type, the liquid-applied membranes segment is estimated to lead the overall Waterproofing Membranes Market in 2020.

Waterproofing membranes reduce the ingress of water in a building structure. The liquid-applied membranes segment accounts for the larger share in the global Waterproofing Membranes Market. The demand for these membranes is rising rapidly, owing to their environment-friendly properties and easy applicability. Liquid waterproofing membranes are easy to handle and replace, and provide efficient waterproofing and longer lifespan of a building structure.

Based on the usage, the new construction segment is estimated to lead the overall Waterproofing Membranes Market in 2020.

Based on usage, the Waterproofing Membranes Market is segmented into new construction and refurbishment. The new construction segment accounted for the larger market share in 2020. The growth can be attributed to the regulations for new construction, infrastructural developments, industrialization, and urbanization in emerging economies.

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Based on application, the building structure to be the largest consumer of waterproofing membranes.

Building structures are areas excluding roofs and walls such as balconies, basements, foundations, retaining walls, storage rooms, belowground constructions, and others. Building structures are often exposed to stresses such as water exposure, water stresses, groundwater chemical exposures, unequal static forces, temperature variations, biological influences, and others. Waterproofing of these structures provide effective and long term protection form these exposures and ensure efficient protection of building structures.

Based on region, APAC is estimated to lead the Waterproofing Membranes Market in 2020.

The Waterproofing Membranes Market in APAC is projected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period. The building structures market in APAC is driven by the growing construction industry, increased consumer spending, and strong economic growth.

The recent COVID-19 pandemic is expected to impact the global construction industry. COVID-19 led the construction industry into an unknown operating environment, globally. Government restrictions on the number of people that can gather at one particular place, severely impacted the industry. E.g., the US construction industry relies heavily on imports for materials such as steel, copper, aluminum, stone, and fixtures, especially from China. Logistical constraints, manpower shortages, and government restrictions have forced many of these suppliers of raw materials to close down, hence, disrupting construction activities in the US. Similarly, economies such as China, India, and others are also facing the brunt of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The key players in the Waterproofing Membranes Market include Sika (Switzerland), Tremco (US), BASF (Germany), Soprema (France), GCP applied technologies (US), Fosroc (UK), Mapei (Italy), Carlisle Construction Company (US), Johns Manville (US), and Renolit (Germany). These players have established a strong foothold in the market by adopting strategies, such as expansions, mergers & acquisitions, agreements & partnerships, and new product launches.

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The bombshell New York Times report on Donald Trumps tax returns is a remarkable feat of journalism. The team deserves special praise for making their findings comprehensible to general readers and not getting lost in the details.

Yet like many other revelations in the Trump era, the tax news falls into the category of shocking but not surprising. Many observers had already surmised that Trump paid little or no taxes, that his claims of brilliant business success were a fiction, and that he is deep in debt. Now all of that is virtually confirmed. But what does it mean for Americas future?

Everyone will come at this question from their own angle. When I read the Times report, I quickly found myself thinking about ... the theory of business capital structure. No, really.

For many people, no doubt, the main takeaway from the tax revelations will be $750? Really? The fact that Trump paid less in taxes than tens of millions of hardworking Americans struggling to make ends meet is an outrage. Its also easy to explain in a few seconds, which is why its the theme of a quickly released ad from the Biden campaign.

From a substantive point of view, however, Trumps tax avoidance is less important than the confirmation of what many already suspected: His carefully cultivated image of being a hugely successful businessman is, as he would say, fake news. In fact, he has done a terrible job of running his businesses.

Why does this matter? Voters often seem to believe that effective business leaders have the skills and knowledge to lead the nation as a whole. Theyre wrong about that. Even genuinely great businesspeople  people like, say, Herbert Hoover  are often very bad at public policy, including economic policy, because the skills needed to run a business and those required to steer a nation are very different.

In Trumps case, however, the old joke is true: He isnt a great businessman, he just played one on TV. It should come as no surprise, then, that he has been consistently hapless at devising policy. On just about every front, from diplomacy to infrastructure to trade wars to fighting a pandemic, he has been Midas in reverse.

How much will the revelation that he has always been a fraud hurt him? Many of his supporters will probably refuse to acknowledge the truth, perhaps because they wont admit to themselves how completely they were scammed. But assuming that the news will have no effect at all is probably too cynical. And remember, Trump is running behind Joe Biden, so he has to do more than keep his base  and this may not do much to win over undecided voters.

The most important revelation from the Times report, however, is its confirmation of another thing many observers already suspected: Trump has hundreds of millions in personal debt. Its unclear whether he has the resources to repay it.

Personal financial trouble has always been a red flag when it comes to filling sensitive government positions because its an open invitation to corruption.

So the confirmation that the nations chief law enforcement and national security official  whose business empire already offers many opportunities for undue influence  is drowning in debt is chilling.

Beyond that, analysts of business finance  I told you Id get there  have long known that high levels of debt, enough to pose a substantial risk of bankruptcy, create destructive incentives. Instead of investing in the future, the owners of highly indebted businesses are tempted to engage in asset stripping, getting the money out before the creditors stake their claims. This is, by the way, the charge being leveled at Eddie Lampert, the former chief executive of Sears (and Steven Mnuchin, the secretary of the Treasury).

Owners of debt-hobbled businesses are also tempted to take big risks, even at bad odds, because if they get lucky, they might save themselves; if they dont, its someone elses problem. Heads they win, tails the creditors lose.

So now we have a deeply indebted business owner with every incentive to engage in malfeasance  except that in addition to running his business, hes running the United States of America.

But he may be about to lose that special position and whatever financial defense it may provide.

Think about that. Also think about the fact that Trump constantly complains about almost nonexistent voter fraud  he has never accepted the fact that he lost the popular vote four years ago  and that he has repeatedly refused to say that he will accept election results if he loses. And tell me that you arent terrified about what the next few weeks may hold.

Krugman is a New York Times columnist and winner of a Nobel Prize in Economics.
Thousands of mostly Honduran migrants bound for the United States surged across the border into Guatemala on Thursday, just weeks before a tense American presidential election where immigration is a key issue.

Carrying backpacks and plastic bags, the migrants pushed past two lines of Guatemalan soldiers at the Entre Rios border crossing and continued north -- defying the risks and restrictions linked to the coronavirus pandemic.

Guatemalan Migration Institute officials said some 3,000 people had crossed the border without submitting to a Covid-19 test, required for foreigners entering the country.

Many were not wearing masks against the spread of infection.

"We're not thinking about the pandemic, it's the last thing on our minds," 20-year-old Jefrey Amaya told AFP, part of a group of young people from El Negrito, in Honduras' Yoro department.

Amaya said he had joined the caravan after seeing a message on social media.

Soldiers handed out water to passing migrants, some of whom applauded the troops for allowing them to pass.

Dozens of migrants hitched a ride on the back of a large flatbed truck as they headed toward Mexico.

- Open border -

In recent years, thousands of Central American migrants traveling in large groups have crossed into Mexico, with the aim of reaching the US border.

The caravan is headed north just a month before the US presidential election, in which President Donald Trump -- whose hard line against migrants is a central plank of his policy platform -- is seeking a second term.

Trump has threatened Mexico with steep US tariffs if it does not do more to stop a surge of undocumented migrants, and President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has since deployed some 26,000 troops to the country's borders in response.

Trump's administration on Thursday announced the US will admit a record low of 15,000 refugees in the coming year.

His Democratic rival in the November 3 election, Joe Biden, has pledged to raise the refugee cap to 125,000, saying that welcoming the persecuted is in line with US values.

Story continues

The latest migrant caravan set off on Wednesday night from Honduras' second city San Pedro Sula.

Honduran Red Cross officials said 1,200 people left in a first group, joined a few hours later by around 2,000 more, walking north to the Guatemalan border.

- Virus risk -

Guatemala opened its borders last week after a six-month closure to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, which has hit Central American countries hard.

Some of the migrants said they recognized the risks of catching the coronavirus while on the move, but were prepared to take the risk to escape from high levels of poverty and violence in Honduras.

Monica Toruno, 36, had joined the caravan with her wheelchair-bound six-year-old son and a niece. She said she was forced to leave Honduras because of unemployment and violence.

"I never thought I would subject my son to this, but I lost my job because of the coronavirus, and I'm afraid of staying," Toruno said.

"We are going in search of the American dream, no one will stop us. Either we die here from Covid-19 or we die of hunger. Governments are doing nothing to create jobs," another migrant, 27-year-old Miguel Artiga, told AFP.

The vast majority of the migrants on the move are young men. Few women and children were seen.

According to the government of Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez, 31,022 Hondurans had been deported back to their home country as of last week, most of them from Mexico and the United States, with the remainder from Guatemala.

bur/db/acb
NSDL e-Governance Infrastructure Ltd., Indias leading technological infrastructure provider, announces that Mr. Suresh Sethi has taken charge as the companys Managing Director and CEO  Designate. He was earlier the Founder, CEO, and MD of India Post Payments Bank.

NSDL e-Governances current Managing Director and CEO, Mr. Gagan Rai, who has been at the helm of affairs at the company for the last 25 years, is set to retire in February 2021.

Mr. Sethi will succeed Mr. Gagan Rai.

Mr. Suresh Sethi takes command of NSDL e-Governance at an exciting phase as the company aims to expand its geographical presence across the globe with its innovative and world-class solutions such as the National Unique Identity, tax-related services, recordkeeping of Pension accounts, e-sign, eKYC, etc. It also envisages elevating education financing in India with its state-of-the-art education finance portals  Vidya Lakshmi, Vidyasaarathi, and Vidya Kaushal. Mr. Sethi will spearhead the companys growth efforts across India and also in international markets.

Commenting on the development, Mr. Gagan Rai, Managing Director and CEO, NSDL e-Governance, said, I am extremely happy to pass on the baton to Mr. Suresh Sethi. I wish him success as he takes on the mantle of leading NSDL e-Governance into an extraordinary growth phase. The future of our company looks exceedingly bright under him. I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to all the board members and colleagues who have shown tremendous support throughout my stint in the company and have been the key pillars in what has been a fabulous growth journey.

A firm believer in financial inclusion, Mr. Suresh Sethi has been pivotal in the development of India Post Payments Bank and is credited with creating the largest inter-operable banking infrastructure for the public good at scale.

Mr. Suresh Sethi, Managing Director, and CEO  Designate, NSDL e-Governance said, I am honoured to be a part of this great institution that has played a pioneering role in building the e-governance infrastructure for the nation. I look forward to working towards establishing the company as a Global Leader in the e-Governance and ICT space. The current pandemic has brought forth new challenges leading to the adoption of digital business models and a paradigm shift in e-governance services. NSDL e-Governance is well poised to offer formidable value propositions and unparalleled services in both B2B and B2C segments.

Before the India Post Payments Bank, Mr. Sethi was the Managing Director at Vodafone M-Pesa. In his earlier stints, he was also associated with leading financial services companies such as Citigroup and YES Bank. As an industry veteran, he has held CXO and Managing Director positions at regional & global level across Business Strategy, Product Development, Sales & Client Management and Operations. He has extensively worked in the financial inclusion space leveraging fintech and digital-led innovation to make a difference.
The World Bank says any effort to address Ghanas youth unemployment and underemployment challenge must focus on strategic short-medium and long-term responses.



Ms Christabel E. Dadzie in charge of Social Protection and Jobs at the World Bank, said although Ghana had launched a number of initiatives in response to the challenge, the lack of coordination among stakeholders had led to duplication.



Ms Dadzie, speaking at the virtual launch of two World Bank Reports on Youth Employment, observed that, unfortunately, key stakeholders on youth employment including those in the private sector had limited interaction.



The reports are: Youth Employment Programmes in Ghana: Options for Effective Policy Making Implementation, and Ghana Jobs: An Overview of Public Jobs Pogrammes in Ghana. The event was on the theme: Advancing Youth Employment in Ghana: Options and Opportunities.



The study sought to maximise synergies and rally efforts around a shared approach towards job creation for the Ghanaian youth.



It also aimed to enhance the knowledge available to key stakeholders (researchers, policy makers, practitioners, and the private sector) about the landscape of youth employment programmes in Ghana, engage practitioners to identify real-life challenges and solutions and suggest a coherent approach to programme planning and implementation.



The study proposed systems for effective and sustainable service delivery such as effective monitoring and evaluation and the use of management information systems to assist the Government in its short to medium-term planning.



It called for the need to identify concrete areas for promoting youth employment in Ghana based on global practices.



Ms Dadzie said regular exchanges were important for promoting synergies and reducing duplication of programmes and for sharing knowledge.



She said Ghana lacked a comprehensive database on the characteristics of various categories of youth information, which was essential for the design and implementation of effective programmes.



Without transformation of the current Ghanaian economic structure, employment opportunities will remain limited, she said, and asked Government to increase private sector participation in youth skills development and employment programmes as that was critical to the success of such programmes.



The Government can work with employers through public-private partnership models to improve national systems for workforce development, including the curricula for training providers and national qualification frameworks for skills certification, Ms Dadzie added.



She said private sector employers could also offer apprenticeship and training programmes tailored for market needs.



The reports recommended interventions in five priority areas that could potentially make an impact.



These are scaling up agriculture and agribusiness, apprenticeship, entrepreneurship, reemployment support services, and high-yielding programmes including renewable energy, construction, tourism, sports, and green jobs.



Mr Pierre Laporte, World Bank Country Director, urged policy makers to make sure to implement the recommendations from the reports to improve on youth development and pledged the Banks commitment towards helping Ghana to achieve that.



Mr Ignatius Baffour-Awuah, the Minister of Employment and Labour Relations, commended the World Bank Team for the efforts in supporting government to advance issues of youth employment.



He said youth employment was seeing improvement due to some programmes government had initiated including providing an enabling environment for the private sector to thrive.

Source: GNA









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Brent Barnes became the CEO of LBT Innovations Limited (ASX:LBT) in 2016, and we think it's a good time to look at the executive's compensation against the backdrop of overall company performance. This analysis will also evaluate the appropriateness of CEO compensation when taking into account the earnings and shareholder returns of the company.

View our latest analysis for LBT Innovations

How Does Total Compensation For Brent Barnes Compare With Other Companies In The Industry?

At the time of writing, our data shows that LBT Innovations Limited has a market capitalization of AU$37m, and reported total annual CEO compensation of AU$420k for the year to June 2020. That's just a smallish increase of 4.7% on last year. Notably, the salary which is AU$338.0k, represents most of the total compensation being paid.

On comparing similar-sized companies in the industry with market capitalizations below AU$281m, we found that the median total CEO compensation was AU$607k. This suggests that Brent Barnes is paid below the industry median. What's more, Brent Barnes holds AU$119k worth of shares in the company in their own name.

Component 2020 2019 Proportion (2020) Salary AU$338k AU$288k 80% Other AU$82k AU$113k 20% Total Compensation AU$420k AU$401k 100%

Talking in terms of the industry, salary represented approximately 63% of total compensation out of all the companies we analyzed, while other remuneration made up 37% of the pie. LBT Innovations pays out 80% of remuneration in the form of a salary, significantly higher than the industry average. If salary is the major component in total compensation, it suggests that the CEO receives a higher fixed proportion of the total compensation, regardless of performance.

LBT Innovations Limited's Growth

LBT Innovations Limited's earnings per share (EPS) grew 19% per year over the last three years. In the last year, the company lost virtually all of its revenue.

Shareholders would be glad to know that the company has improved itself over the last few years. It's always a tough situation when revenues are not growing, but ultimately profits are more important. 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.

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Has LBT Innovations Limited Been A Good Investment?

Given the total shareholder loss of 55% over three years, many shareholders in LBT Innovations Limited are probably rather dissatisfied, to say the least. This suggests it would be unwise for the company to pay the CEO too generously.

In Summary...

As we noted earlier, LBT Innovations pays its CEO lower than the norm for similar-sized companies belonging to the same industry. Importantly though, the company has impressed with its EPS growth over three years. Although we would've liked to see positive investor returns, it would be bold of us to criticize CEO compensation when EPS are up. But shareholders will likely want to hold off on any raise for Brent until investor returns are positive.

It is always advisable to analyse CEO pay, along with performing a thorough analysis of the company's key performance areas. In our study, we found 5 warning signs for LBT Innovations you should be aware of, and 2 of them are a bit concerning.

Switching gears from LBT Innovations, if you're hunting for a pristine balance sheet and premium returns, this free list of high return, low debt companies is a great place to look.

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. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.



Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com.
A British museum will send a Viking skeleton that was butchered in an ethnic cleansing massacre in AD 1002 to its home in Denmark to be reunited with its 1,000-year-old relative.

The skeleton, known as SK1756, is being held at Oxfordshire County Council's Museum Resource Centre and is one of at least 35 men and boys believed to be victims of the St Brice's Day massacre in Oxford in AD 1002.

The slaughter is said to have taken place after King Aethelred II of England ordered the execution of dozens of Danish raiders, settlers and their children.

But DNA has revealed that a male skeleton discovered during an excavation in Denmark could be a relative such as an uncle, nephew, grandfather, grandson or half-brother - and experts want to reunite them.

A Viking skeleton from AD 1002 at the Museum Resource Centre in Oxfordshire today

The skull of a Viking skeleton from AD 1002 which features nine sword marks at the Museum Resource Centre in Oxfordshire today

Archaeology curator Angie Bolton inspects a Viking skeleton from AD 1002 at the Museum Resource Centre in Oxfordshire today

The skeleton will be taken 'home' to Copenhagen next year, where it will be displayed in a Viking exhibition.

SK1756 is also set to be featured in a TV documentary about the Vikings led by Dr Rane Willerslev, director of the National Museum of Denmark.

Some of the work in establishing the link between the two skeletons was carried out by his twin brother Eske, an expert in DNA.

Dr Willerslev said: 'We thought it was exciting when we made the link.

'We thought that Vikings had left Denmark to live in Britain, but we were not certain. Now we had the evidence that they were kin.

The full Viking skeleton is seen at the Museum Resource Centre in Oxfordshire today

The vertebrae of a Viking skeleton from AD 1002 which features markings from a spear or projectile at the Museum Resource Centre in Oxfordshire today

'It was strange to see this skeleton - one of your ancestors - which had been hit eight to 10 times in the head and stabbed several times in the spine, just lying there in front of you.'

Dr Willerslev had travelled to the museum in Standlake, Oxon., to interview archaeology curator Angie Bolton.

She said: 'The DNA link to the Danish skeleton is amazing and it's quite a privilege for our collection to be recognised in this way.'

The mass grave was discovered in 2008 when excavations took place ahead of a development in the grounds of the University's of Oxford's St John's College.

Subsequent research then showed that they had all been massacred at the same time, probably in AD 1002.

While 33 of them were tall, robust adult males, two were adolescents who had met a violent death - but did not necessarily lead a violent life.

Analysis suggests that some of the victims originated from within the UK, Denmark and Germany.

The rib bones of a Viking skeleton from AD 1002 at the Museum Resource Centre in Oxfordshire today

The massacre was prompted by King Aethelred's frustration at his inability to stop Viking invaders from raiding England, experts say.

The St Brice's Day slaughter is not well known among the general Danish population, but Dr Willerslev is not expecting a backlash when his documentary reveals the gory details.

He said: 'I don't think there will be any hard feelings towards the Brits.

'People always think the Vikings went overseas and killed and plundered, but here the situation is turned around. It's payback!'

'Vikings are very popular at the moment.

'Denmark is regularly reinventing its relationship with the Vikings - the depictions are very different throughout the years - but they remain one of the most popular themes you can exhibit. Why is this?

'Well, there are adventures and a glorious time in Scandinavian history, when Christian beliefs met Pagan Europe.

'Scandinavia is very peaceful now so it's intriguing and challenging to look at the past and see what motivated them.'

SK1756 will be making the journey to Copenhagen next spring, and there are plans to carry out more tests on the 1,000-year-old bones - either in Durham or Denmark - to try to unearth more secrets from beyond the grave.

And if Ms Bolton has her way, SK1756's Danish relative will travel in the opposite direction at some point in the future.

She said: 'I would love to borrow the Danish skeleton and put on an exhibition in Oxfordshire, showing this example of ethnic cleansing, and shatter a few myths about us and the Vikings.'

The documentary and the exhibition are due to open at the Danish National Museum in Copenhagen in 2021 and run in various forms until 2024
CAMBRIDGE  A byelection campaign in southeast Galt has taken a sour turn as some candidates vying for an empty council seat to be filled on Monday say their campaign teams have faced online harassment.

Some of Scott Hamiltons campaign volunteers have been harassed in private Facebook messages. Conspiracies about Hamilton and his campaign staff have made the rounds in Facebook groups. Photos of the Ward 7 candidates house have also been shared in these groups.

Ive gotten some odd phone calls that have been disconcerting, Hamilton said.

The strange phone calls and circulating photos of his home were enough for Hamilton to ask the city clerk to remove his address from the citys website in April.

Hamilton has been an outspoken supporter for the need for a consumption and treatment site in Cambridge. As the city grapples with an opioid crisis, council has put off making a decision on this harm reduction service until the empty council seat for Ward 7 is filled.

This contentious issue, along with the citys persistent problems with homelessness and public drug use, has galvanized parts of the community both online and at a rally against crime in downtown Cambridge last month.

Members of a Facebook group called Neighbourhood Watch Cambridge organized the anti-crime rally outside Cambridge City Hall. Some members in the group have called for violence against homeless individuals and drug users in the city.

Hamilton said the hateful comments he sees online do not match what he hears from Ward 7 residents.

I honestly think we need to stop paying attention to social media. There have been certain issues that have been very prominent in Cambridge where there are certain opinions on social media that I am absolutely not finding on doorsteps, Hamilton said.

What the pandemic has done, I think is expose a lot of these issues and the cracks and fissures that have always existed in Cambridge. It has brought us an opportunity now to deal with it effectively in a way that unifies Cambridge.

If we want to heal as a community we need to fix these underlying problems in ways that are collaborative and with the advice of experts working in the field, Hamilton said.

He said what Cambridge is doing now to handle its drug and homelessness crisis is not working.

Nine candidates are listed as contenders to represent Ward 7 on Cambridge council. The seat that represents southeast Galt has been vacant since Coun. Frank Monteiro died last October.

The pandemic delayed this byelection, first scheduled for March. It will now take place Monday, Oct. 5, making it a drawn out campaign that has fuelled debates on the citys ongoing struggle with social issues.

Last months anti-crime rally, called Take Back Cambridge: a protest march against drug related crime, is just one example.

The divisive atmosphere at the rally was reminiscent of the protests seen after the 2016 decision to build a new multiplex recreation facility on land owned by Conestoga College. At the time hundreds of people turned up at rallies and council meetings.

The anti-crime rally was organized by members of a Facebook group called Neighbourhood Watch Cambridge, a group Ward 7 candidate Connie Cody is a member of.

It is also one of the groups in which negative posts about other Ward 7 candidates have been shared, including Hamilton and Manuel da Silva, another candidate in favour of consumption and treatment sites.

Cody said she is a member of the group but does not follow posts.

A few candidates are being harassed. Its happening on both sides, she said, adding that she has had some of her campaign signs damaged and stolen.

Cody came in second to Monteiro in the last municipal election, and she said she continues to hear Ward 7 residents tell her they do not feel safe in their neighbourhoods.

I support neighbourhood safety, the Ward 7 candidate said. We really need to start being a stronger voice for the people.

Cody said the community is telling her that crime rates have gone up despite the fact that, according to Waterloo Regional Police data, crime in Cambridge has not changed much in the past five years.

I find that a lot of people are not reporting crimes. Theyre lost faith in the judicial system, she explained.

When asked how Cambridge can address these issues, Cody said better drug treatment facilities and enhanced drug courts are some of the solutions she would propose the city advocate for, as these are decisions out of municipal control. But a consumption and treatment site is not something she will support.

I dont see a CTS site as being harm reduction. I feel it does more harm to keep people on drugs, Cody said.

Hamilton said he acknowledges that consumption and treatment sites are not  a magical silver bullet that will solve all of Cambridges problems, but he said it is one step in the right direction that will save lives and reduce needle clutter in the city.

Byelection voting

A byelection during a pandemic will be a first for Waterloo Region.

Advanced polling dates are set for Oct. 2 and Oct. 3 at Cambridge City Hall. Voting day is Monday, Oct. 5.

The city clerk safety precautions will be in place including capacity limits, single-use pens, Plexiglas barriers and enhanced cleaning.

Curbside voting and proxy voting will also be available. Voters will be allowed to send another person to vote in their place. Curbside voting will be set up around city hall for residents to fill out ballots in their vehicle and drop their ballot in a curbside ballot box.

Voters who cast advance ballots in March will have their votes counted in the rescheduled byelection.

Any voters who will be self-isolating due to symptoms or close contact, or anyone who is waiting for test results, will be asked to use the proxy voting option.

In the 2018 municipal election, Ward 7 saw 2,227 ballots cast out of 8,491 eligible voters.

Candidates for Ward 7

Nine candidates are running for an empty seat on Cambridge council:

Cole Boland

Cody Botelho

Connie Cody

Manuel da Silva

Scott Hamilton

R.J. Johnson

Sandra Lemieux

Vandan Patel

Simon Weresch
Beutner: COVID-19 Numbers Still Too High to Reopen LAUSD Schools

Superintendent Austin Beutner said today that public schools in Los Angeles are not yet ready to reopen for in-person instruction amid the coronavirus, even as he detailed some of the challenges in virtual learning.

Its now been more than six months since students were in schools, and the learning loss for some may be significant. But schools have to balance the learning needs of students with the health and safety of all in the school community, Beutner said, adding Schools cannot open until the overall level of the virus is much lower.

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The Los Angeles Unified School District superintendent said some of the problems with online learning include difficulties with teachers tracking results and the lack of ability to work one-on-one with struggling students, difficulties on the part of English language learners and those with learning disabilities, technology issues, students not having a quite space to work at home, and the summer slide when students regress during the traditional seasonal break.

Beutner detailed the districts COVID-19 testing program in advance ofthe eventual reopening of schools. All students and staff would get an initial baseline test in the next few weeks, followed by periodic tests based on the advice of science partners. Family members of those who test positive or show symptoms of the virus will also be offered tests.

The superintendent also praised the districts Grab & Go program to provide free meals to families during the pandemic, which he said would likely reach 65 million meals this week. Beutner called it the largest school-based program of its kind in the nation, and called on city, county and state officials to contribute federal CARES ACt funds to the program.

Also Monday, a coalition of K-12 public, private and faith-based school leaders, parents, civic leaders and physicians in Los Angeles County sent a letter to the Board of Supervisors and Department of Public Health urging the officials to create a pathway to safely reopen schools.

The group is seeking the following steps:

 Communicate transparent, data-driven public health metrics to reopen schools.

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 Reopen schools under state elementary school waiver process beginning with grades TK-3, immediately.

 Phase-in reopening of upper grades (4-8 and 9-12) on two-week intervals based on achievement of public health milestones aligned with the State of California*s Blueprint for a Safer Economy.

 Restore the Department of Public Health*s K-12 working group to provide regular input to department leadership on guidance and protocols from school administrators and local health care experts.

County health officials have that schools will not be permitted to reopen for full in-person instruction until at least November.
HAMDEN  Four firefighters were injured, one suffering first-degree burns, three local residents were taken to the hospital for smoke inhalation and two people had to be rescued during a two-alarm blaze at the Broadmoor Apartments Wednesday, according to the Fire Department.

Fire Marshal Brian Dolan said crews were called to the 680 Mix Ave. apartment building at 2:24 p.m.

Two non-ambulatory residents had to be rescued by fire personnel during fire suppression efforts. Three residents were transported by ambulance for smoke inhalation, Dolan said. Two firefighters were transported to the hospital including one with first degree burn injuries. Two other firefighters suffered minor injuries and were treated at the scene.

Four police officers had arrived before the department, he said in a release, and made multiple entries to evacuate numerous residents from the smoke filled hallways and stairwells of the six story building. All four were later treated for smoke inhalation, he said.

Hamden firefighters arrived on scene at 2:29 p.m., finding heavy fire in a basement storage area, which was later determined to have started in a large industrial trash bin and spread to three adjacent bins.

The fire followed a pipe chase to two apartments immediately above the storage area. Firefighters overhauled partition walls in the apartments to extinguish the fire hidden within the walls, Dolan said. Crews then ventilated smoke from all six floors of the apartment building.

Residents were able to return to their apartments by 5:30 p.m., Dolan said.

Firefighters from New Haven also responded to the scene, Dolan said, while companies from Bethany, Cheshire and North Haven covered fire stations and dealt with emergency calls during the blaze.

The American Red Cross provided assistance to four residents of the apartment building displaced by the fire, he said.

william.lambert@hearstmediact.com
Delisha Searcy has been pleading for police reform for more than a year after her 19-year-old son, De'Von Bailey, was shot in the back by officers in Colorado.

"I'm looking for in this election, people that are going to take Black Lives Matter seriously, not just, you know, put a little banner up and say, 'Black Lives Matter,'" she told ABC News. "What are you doing? What are you actually doing?"

Like many activists across the country, Searcy raised her voice about injustices in policing and was on hand when the state's governor, Jared Polis, signed into a law a comprehensive police reform package this summer.

While some police brass and others have criticized the new rules in Colorado as too restrictive, many policy experts say police departments need to take a hard look at their tactics if they want to achieve better policing in their communities.

Police reform has become one of the central issues of the protest movement and civil unrest that has sprung up around the country in the wake of George Floyd's death at the hands of Minneapolis police. There have been calls to disband or reorganize departments, ban controversial tactics like chokeholds and invest more funding in non-law enforcement interventions amid growing anger over the disproportionate negative impact policing has on people of color.

Nearly a third (30%) of registered voters cited criminal justice and policing or race relations as the most important issue in deciding their vote for president, according to a September poll by KFF Health Tracking.

ABC News is examining the issue of police reform as part of its "My America" video series, which showcases issues that are key to the electorate in the run-up to the 2020 election.

MORE: Colorado city halts emergency use of ketamine until Elijah McClain probe complete

PHOTO: Delisha Searcy, mother of De'Von Bailey, at podium, speaks at a news conference in front of the Colorado Springs Police Department Police Operations Center, Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2019, in Colorado Springs, Colo. (Jerilee Bennett/The Gazette via AP)

For Searcy, the question of police accountability has remained on her mind since the August 2019 incident where her son was killed.

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Colorado Springs officers stopped Bailey while they investigated a reported armed robbery call. The report was eventually determined to be false. As Bailey ran away from officers while being questioned, he was shot in the back, police said. A gun was found in the waistband of his shorts, according to police.

At the time, under Colorado law, officers were allowed to shoot suspects allegedly connected to violent incidents if they "reasonably believe that it is necessary" to defend themselves or others from harm. The law also gave them the right to shoot suspects linked to a felony with a deadly weapon to prevent the suspect from escaping.

"How could you literally take your gun out, not even give him a warning and say, 'If you don't stop, I'm going to shoot,'" Searcy asked. "It made me feel like you don't have respect for life. You don't care. You shouldn't be doing your job."

MORE: De'Von Bailey shooting: Police will not face charges in Colorado man's death

Sgt. Alan Van't Land and Officer Blake Evenson, the police officers involved, were exonerated by a grand jury, which found the shooting justifiable under the law, and the state district attorney chose not to pursue additional charges. The two officers are still on the force, but are named in a lawsuit filed by Bailey's family.

The suit contends the officers had no right to open fire since he posed no threat. A spokesperson for the Colorado Springs Police Department told ABC News that it does not comment on ongoing litigation.

The teen's death ignited new protests against police violence against the Black community, protests that increased following Floyd's death in May. It was with this public outcry that Colorado state leaders began to work on police reform.

Over the summer, the state passed several reform packages including mandatory body cameras for every officer in the state, an end to qualified immunity, allowing people to sue officers as individuals for up to $25,000 and a ban on chokeholds.

Colorado Rep. Leslie Herod, a Democrat, told ABC News that her colleagues on both sides of the aisle wanted to address the public's concerns.

We had letters from across Colorado, emails from across Colorado. Republicans say, 'I'm getting e-mails on this thing. Let's make this workable. You know, I want to vote 'yes.' Get me [too],'" she told ABC News.

Not everyone in the state, however, was happy with the changes.

Colorado Sen. John Cooke, who voted in favor of the legislation, told ABC News he had concerns about how it could affect the future of police forces. A former sheriff, Cooke said he would think twice about going into law enforcement because of the new restrictions and other prospective officers are thinking the same.

"It's only a few people here, a few bad apples, so to speak, in the law enforcement community. That makes it bad for everybody," he said.

Simon Balto, professor and historian at the University of Iowa, told ABC News that the analogy doesn't always work to describe the problem.

"If you are imagining it to be a system, an institution that equitably keeps all people safe, it just simply doesn't that doesn't track," he told ABC News.

PHOTO: People react as police officers discharge tear gas next to the Colorado State Capitol as protests against the death of George Floyd continue for a third night on May 30, 2020, in Denver. (Michael Ciaglo/Getty Images)

Balto noted the defund the police argument that has arisen from the protests doesn't necessarily mean cutting back on resources for problem-solving, rather it means putting them in sectors that can bring about comprehensive change.

"If we can invest in people, invest in communities, give people the things that they need to make sure that their material needs are met, then a world without police or at least without the police as currently conceived is imminently possible," he said.

MORE: Turning Point: Protests in America

Colorado is one of the places in the country that have moved swiftly to enact police reforms aimed at curbing violence committed by officers. In Minneapolis, where Floyd was killed, the city council voted in June to ban chokeholds and "warrior style training," while in New York City, leaders removed a billion dollars from the police budget by removing two NYPD training classes and diverting command of school safety officers to the Department of Education.

PHOTO: Denver police officer Nate Magee chants with protesters marching during the fifth consecutive day of demonstrations in the aftermath of the death of George Floyd on June 1, 2020, in Denver. (Michael Ciaglo/Getty Images, File)

Elected officials all over the country have pushed to put more reforms in place.

Searcy said the changes in Colorado are a step in the right direction, but she's afraid that the momentum for change has slowed recently. She hopes that more people continue to raise their voices and leaders come up with solutions that truly curb police violence.

"I don't understand why it takes people being slaughtered or choked out for X amount of minutes for us to do something," she said.

ABC News' Carol McKinley contributed to this report.

Advocates push for police reform after summer of unrest originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
The trio was killed by the Army during an operation in Amshipora area of Shopian on July 18

SRINAGAR: The authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have decided to exhume the mortal remains of three youth from the Union Territorys frontier Rajouri district who were killed by the Army troops in a fake encounter in militancy-infested Shopian district in July and then passed off as terrorists and hand these over to their parents.

Inspector General of Police (Kashmir range), Vijay Kumar, said on Wednesday, As the DNA samples of the three dead bodies of Rajouri matched those of their family members, these will be exhumed and handed over to their families after due process of law (sic).

As reported by this newspaper earlier, the parents and other relatives of the slain youth had demanded that their mortal remains be exhumed and handed over to them so that they could give them a decent burial in their native villages in Rajouri.

The trio -- Muhammad Imtiaz, 20, Muhammad Abrar, 25, and Ibrar Ahmed Khan, 16 -- was killed by the Army during an operation in Amshipora area of Shopian on July 18, a day after they had arrived there to work in an apple orchard to earn living.

According to the J-K police, they had provided sufficient time for identification of the corpses at the Police Control Room Kashmir at Srinagar. As no one came forward to claim the bodies and police also failed in identifying them, they were buried in a cemetery in the remotest Baramulla district, almost 250 kilometres from their home district in presence of a magistrate after conducting post-mortem and lifting DNA samples, the police had said.

The kin of the slain youth had told this newspaper that since the Army has admitted the they were killed by its men during a so-called operation at Amshipora and the J-K police have announced that the results of the DNA samples of their parents have matched those of the slain, their bodies should be exhumed and handed over to their families. We want to give them decent burials in our own zameen (Soil), Imtiazs father Abid Hussain had said.

The parents and other relatives of Abrar and Ibrar, who also live in mud houses in dispersed settlements tucked away in the hills of Rajouri and at a three hours walking distance from a motorable side road opening on Mughal Road that connects Srinagar with Rajouri town, endorsed the demand that the mortal remains of the trio be handed over to them for burial in their native places before these get decomposed further. Ibrars father Baga Khan had told this newspaper, We must get their bodies nowNo one in the families could see their faces before they were laid in their graves. Justice must be done.

Supporting the demand, the local Panch, Irshad Ahmed, had said that the Aadhaar cards and mobile phones of the slain youth may also be handed over to the families and the government should consider sanctioning ex-gratia relief to the families which live in extreme poverty besides a job for the next of the kin.

While Army chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane was in the Valley, its Srinagar-based 15 Corps issued a statement admitting that the three youths were killed by its men and that "disciplinary action" in being initiated by it under the Army Act against them. It said that the inquiry conducted by it has brought out certain prima facie evidence indicating that, during the operation, powers vested under the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) 1990 were exceeded and the Dos and Donts of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) as approved by the Honble Supreme Court have been contravened.

The Army has already begun a 'Summary of Evidence', a step before a possible court martial of its officers and men involved in the fake encounter. During this process, all civilian witnesses are cross examined.

A court in Shopian on Tuesday sent two persons arrested in the case for a eight-day judicial demand. The duo, reportedly working as informers for the Army, was produced in the District Court by the police, a day after they were arrested for being local collaborators in the crime. The police sources said that they have been arrested by the police on the charges of "criminal conspiracy" under relevant sections. Army sources said that the duo is also likely to be called for cross examination.
Boris Johnson has appealed for the British people not to throw in the sponge in the fight against coronavirus, as his scientific advisers warned that the pandemic is not under control.

In a chilling warning at a 10 Downing Street press conference, chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said the UK is definitely heading in the wrong direction, with rising case numbers and hospitalisations. And chief medical officer Chris Whitty added: We have got a long winter ahead of us.

Mr Johnson said that the only way to beat the disease was for the public to keep making sacrifices, no matter how fed up the are with restrictions on their social and work lives.

He firmly rejected the argument heard increasingly loudly from Tory backbenches that government must allow life to return to normal and concentrate on protecting the most vulnerable rather than shutting down society in the hope of rooting out the virus.

And he said that he would not hesitate to impose more costly restrictions if the evidence showed they were needed.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 18 January 2022 Surfers enter the sea as the sun rises over Tynemouth on the North East coast PA UK news in pictures 17 January 2022 Bonhams Danny McIlwraith holds a Nigerian polycrome carved wood mask during a photocall for the sale of the Jim Lennon Collection at Bonhams in Edinburgh PA UK news in pictures 16 January 2022 The moon rises above the Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth, Hampshire PA UK news in pictures 15 January 2022 Demonstrators outside Downing Street during a Kill The Bill protest against The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill in London PA UK news in pictures 14 January 2022 Ecologist Emma Smart (left) and retired GP Dr Diana Warner outside HMP Bronzefield, in Surrey, following their release from the prison where Emma undertook a 26-day hunger strike during her incarceration. Ms Smart was sentenced in November, along with other members of Insulate Britain, to serve four months for breaking a High Court injunction by taking part in a blockade at junction 25 of the M25 motorway during the morning rush hour on 8 October last year PA UK news in pictures 13 January 2022 A TV presenter holds a copy of a newspaper outside 10 Downing Streetafter the Prime Minister apologised for attending a gathering of colleagues in the Number Ten garden in May 2020, while the UK was in strict lockdown due to the Coronavirus pandemic Getty UK news in pictures 12 January 2022 Fitness guru Derrick Evans after receiving an MBE during an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 11 January 2022 A couple walk underneath an umbrella during wet weather on Westminster Bridge in central London PA UK news in pictures 10 January 2022 A jogger passes the Covid Memorial Wall in London AP UK news in pictures 9 January 2021 The sun rises over horses at Seaton Sluice in Northumberland PA UK news in pictures 8 January 2022 Riders compete during the Veterans Men's race at the UK Cyclo-Cross National Championships 2022 in Ardingly, south of London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 7 January 2022 A dog looks out of a car window at the wintry conditions in Killeshin, Co. Laois PA UK news in pictures 6 January 2022 People walk through frost and mist alongside a frozen lake during sunrise in Bushy Park, London REUTERS UK news in pictures 5 January 2022 A skier jumps on the slopes at Allenheads in the Pennines to the north of Weardale in Northumberland PA UK news in pictures 4 January 2022 Freshly-fallen snow covers houses in Corbridge, near Hexham in Northumberland PA UK news in pictures 3 January 2022 Dean Morrison, 13, receives his Covid-19 vaccine from student nurse Anthony McLaughlin during a vaccination clinic at the Glasgow Central Mosque PA UK news in pictures 2 January 2022 Konastantinos Tsimikas of Liverpool with Chelseas Mason Mount during the Premier League match at Stamfrod Bridge Liverpool FC/Getty UK news in pictures 1 January 2022 New Years Eve Lasers, drones and fireworks illuminate the sky in front of the Royal Naval College in Greenwich shortly after midnight in London EPA UK news in pictures 31 December 2021 Competitors in fancy dress run across the Pennine tops near Haworth, West Yorkshire, in the annual Auld Lang Syne Fell race which attracts hundreds of runners every year PA UK news in pictures 30 December 2021 Sunrise at Bamburgh Castle in Northumberland PA UK news in pictures 29 December 2021 The Very Revd Dr Robert Willis, Dean of Canterbury Cathedral, looks at Becket, a six month old red-billed chough as he visits Wildwood Wildlife Park in Kent on the anniversary of the murder of Thomas Becket PA UK news in pictures 28 December 2021 Troops of the Household Cavalry are seen reflected in a puddle during the changing of the Queens Life Guard, on Horse Guards Parade, in central London PA UK news in pictures 27 December 2021 A pedestrian walks past a winter sale sign outside a John Lewis store on Oxford street in London Getty UK news in pictures 26 December 2021 Riders take their bikes through the snow near Castleside, County Durham PA UK news in pictures 25 December 2021 Patrick Corkery wears a santa hat and beard as waves crash over him at Forty Foot near Dublin during a Christmas Day dip PA UK news in pictures 24 December 2021 People stand inside Kings Cross Station on Christmas Eve in London Reuters UK news in pictures 23 December 2021 Christmas shoppers fill the car park at Fosse Shopping Park in Leicester PA UK news in pictures 22 December 2021 The sun rises behind the stones as people gather for the winter solstice at Stonehenge. Getty UK news in pictures 21 December 2021 People take part in a winter solstice swim at Portobello Beach in Edinburgh to mark the solstice and to witness the dawn after the longest night of the year PA UK news in pictures 20 December 2021 An auction employee displays poultry to buyers and sellers attending the Christmas Poultry Sale at York Auction Centre in Murton PA UK news in pictures 19 December 2021 Joao Moutinho of Wolverhampton Wanderers looks on during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Chelsea at Molineux Getty Images UK news in pictures 18 December 2021 Freight lorries queuing at the port of Dover in Kent PA UK news in pictures 17 December 2021 Newly elected Liberal Democrat MP Helen Morgan, bursts 'Boris' bubble' held by colleague Tim Farron, as she celebrates following her victory in the North Shropshire by-election PA UK news in pictures 16 December 2021 Brussels sprouts are harvested by workers as they prepare for the busy Christmas period near Boston in Lincolnshire PA UK news in pictures 15 December 2021 Lewis Hamilton is made a Knight Bachelor by the Prince of Wales at Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 14 December 2021 The Royal Liver Buildings surrounded by early morning fog in Liverpool PA UK news in pictures 13 December 2021 People queue outside a walk-in Covid-19 vaccination centre at St Thomas's Hospital in Westminster Getty Images UK news in pictures 12 December 2021 People take part in the Big Leeds Santa Dash in Roundhay Park, Leeds PA UK news in pictures 11 December 2021 People arrive at a Covid-19 vaccination centre at Elland Road in Leeds, PA UK news in pictures 10 December 2021 Stella Moris speaks to the media after the US Government won its High Court bid to overturn a judges decision not to extradite WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange PA UK news in pictures 9 December 2021 Camels are lead around Salisbury Cathedral during a rehearsal for the Christmas Eve Service PA UK news in pictures 8 December 2021 Margaret Keenan and Nurse May Parsons, a year after Margaret was the first person in the UK to receive the Pfizer vaccine PA UK news in pictures 7 December 2021 Snowfall in Leadhills, South Lanarkshire as Storm Barra hits the UK with disruptive winds, heavy rain and snow PA UK news in pictures 6 December 2021 A person tries to avoid sea spray on New Brighton promenade in Wallasey as the UK readies for the arrival of Storm Barra Getty UK news in pictures 5 December 2021 People release balloons during a tribute to six-year-old Arthur Labinjo-Hughes outside Emma Tustin's former address in Solihull, West Midlands, where he was murdered by his stepmother PA UK news in pictures 4 December 2021 People walk through a Christmas market in Trafalgar Square Reuters UK news in pictures 3 December 2021 A pedestrian carries a dog as they dodge shoppers on Oxford Street in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 2 December 2021 Duchess of Cambridge inspects a Faberge egg at the Victoria and Albert Museum Getty UK news in pictures 1 December 2021 Meerkats at London Zoo with an advent calendar PA UK news in pictures 30 November 2021 Workers put the finishing touches to the Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree ahead of the lighting ceremony later in the week PA

The latest statistics showed 7,108 lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK, only slightly down on the record 7,143 reported on Tuesday. A further 71 fatalities brought the countrys total death toll from Covid-19 to 42,143.

With local leaders calling for a two-week circuit breaker lockdown to stem rapidly escalating cases in Liverpool, local restrictions were announced for parts of north Wales.

When they come into effect in Denbighshire, Flintshire, Conwy and Wrexham on Thursday, one third of the entire UK population will be under some form of additional local control.

Mr Johnson suffered a humiliating rebuke over the totally unsatisfactory way the local restrictions have been introduced from Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle, who accused him of treating parliament with contempt by avoiding debate and votes on them.

Health secretary Matt Hancock later offered a concession to rebel Tories by promising to give MPs a vote wherever possible on significant future regulations which impact the whole of the UK or England.

Sir Keir Starmer called for an urgent review of the local lockdown system, pointing out that Luton has been the only one of 48 areas able to emerge from controls after successfully bringing infection numbers down.

Theres got to be a national effort to prevent a second lockdown, said the Labour leader.

But the governments side of the bargain here is to have a very clear strategy for keeping that infection rate down, and we dont see that strategy.

Fresh from his apology for garbling the latest legal requirements for northeast England, Mr Johnson admitted that the patchwork of local measures across the country had led to various discrepancies or complications and complexities in official advice.

But he urged the public to keep following the advice and instructions on social distancing and curfews, some of which now carry fines of up to 10,000 for breaches.

No matter how impatient we may be, how fed up we may become, there is only one way of doing this, said the prime minister.

And thats by showing a collective forbearance, common sense and willingness to make sacrifices for the safety of others.

 Patrick Vallance says "we don't have this under control" at coronavirus briefing

The PM acknowledged that there was so far no clear evidence of an impact from his rule of six limit on the size of social gatherings, introduced a fortnight ago, or the 10pm curfew on pubs and restaurants imposed last week.

But he warned: If the evidence requires it, we will not hesitate to take further measures that would, Im afraid, be more costly than the ones we have got in effect now.

Mr Johnson said: "I know some people will think we should give up and let the virus take its course despite the huge loss of life that would potentially entail.

"I have to say I profoundly disagree. I don't think that is what the British people want. I don't think they want to throw in the sponge. They want to fight and defeat this virus and that is what we are going to do."

Standing alongside the prime minister at what Mr Johnson said would be the first in a regular series of Downing Street press conferences as the second wave of coronavirus takes hold, Sir Patrick said: Its very clear that rates are going up - we dont have this under control at the moment.

Hinting that he believed further restrictions are necessary, he went on: The decisions that need to be made are clearly very difficult. None of them are risk-free.

They all come with some cost, and that is human cost in some form or another. Science can provide advice on the situation, ministers need to make decisions on when and how to act.

Earlier, Prof Whitty warned that the number of patients in hospitals and intensive care with Covid-19 was increasing, with a significant rise in positive tests in the northeast and northwest of England, and the Yorkshire and Humber region.

The direction of travel for both hospitals and intensive care is going in the wrong direction, particularly in these areas that have seen rapid increases in cases, he said.

Mr Johnson said that he did not want to impose a second national lockdown, and believed there were signs that the disease may be a more localised phenomenon than in the spring.

But Sir Patrick cautioned: It is worse in certain areas, but there is evidence of spread everywhere and we need to be mindful of that  everyone needs to take precautions across the country.
4,695 KM Geophysical Survey Covers Majority of Dixie Gold's Red Lake Gold Project; Compliments Ongoing Field Programs

VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / Dixie Gold Inc. (TSXV:DG)(FWB:2YCA) ("Dixie Gold" or the "Corporation) is pleased to announce that it has commenced one of the largest privately-funded airborne geophysical surveys in the history of the Red Lake, Ontario gold district. The 4,695 line-kilometre heli-borne geophysical exploration program will assist the Corporation in defining structures that may deliver prospective, district-scale gold exploration corridors within its Red Lake Gold Project, which in turn is located immediately adjacent to Dixie Gold Project being advanced by neighbouring Great Bear Resources Ltd.

Figure 1: Dixie Gold Inc. - Claim Map of the Red Lake Gold Project

"Dixie Gold Inc.'s Red Lake Gold Project represents a remarkable district-scale gold project, most of which was first-assembled in 2018 before Great Bear Resources made their subsequent LP gold discovery in late-Spring of 2019. Following our acquisition of the project at the start of this year, Dixie Gold has quickly evolved into a leading exploration junior in this emerging gold district having both a multi-thousand sample SGH soil survey ongoing and now a multi-thousand KM geophysical survey underway. We believe our Red Lake Gold Project has robust discovery potential and delivers a flagship asset for Dixie Gold's shareholders. On behalf of the Dixie Gold team, I would like to reiterate our excitement for both the project and the large-scale exploration programs that we have underway, all of which are fully-funded from existing treasury without dilution to current shareholders and are being executed in the context of an exceptional share structure," stated Ryan Kalt, Chief Executive Officer of Red Lake Gold.

Dixie Gold has 25,737,188 common shares issued and zero warrants outstanding. Insider ownership stands at more than five million common shares.

About the Fall 2020 Geophysical Survey:

Dixie Gold's newly-commenced, large-scale airborne geophysical survey is slated to cover 4,695 line-kilometres, done on the basis of 50-metre spacing.

Figure 2: Dixie Gold Inc. - Coverage Map of the Fall 2020 Geophysical Survey at the Red Lake Gold Project

The heli-borne geophysical survey is being flown in a systematic low-level grid pattern with full high-resolution coverage of the majority of Dixie Gold's Red Lake Gold Project. This new geophysical data will represent the first time such a high-resolution, large-scale program has been assembled over the project area and also represents the first airborne coverage of the project subsequent to the LP gold discovery at the adjacent project.

This 4,695 line-kilometre geophysical program is designed to provide Dixie Gold with new proprietary geophysical data covering 213.3 km2 of its district-scale Red Lake Gold Project.

The mag survey utilizes four Scintrex CS-3 cesium vapor magnetometer sensors in a custom-designed non-magnetic and non-conductive survey bird for triaxial gradient and total magnetic intensity measurements. Compared to conventional single-sensor survey systems, this design allows for direct measurement of the magnetic gradient in the X, Y and Z axes with four magnetic sensors rather than calculating the gradient from one sensor. This eliminates aircraft-induced noise and provides more structural detail, especially for near-surface targets, without compromising the total magnetic intensity.

The airborne survey, conducted by Precision GeoSurveys Inc., is being flown at a nominal flight height of 40m above ground, plus/minus allocated variances.

About the Red Lake Gold Project:

Dixie Gold's highway-accessible Red Lake Gold Project is located in close proximity to the town of Red Lake in northwestern Ontario. The district-scale gold exploration project is comprised of 1,241 mining claims totaling approx. 25,269 ha in size (approx. 62,441 acres). The project is located contiguous and parallel to the 9,140 ha Dixie Gold Project being advanced by Great Bear Resources Ltd.

Exploration efforts by Dixie Gold at the Red Lake Gold Project are designed to target potential gold mineralization analogous to gold being discovered elsewhere in the immediate region (e.g. the adjacent Dixie Gold Project held by Great Bear Resources Ltd.), including sulphide replacement, quartz veining in mafic volcanics and disseminated gold within high-strain zones.

Risk Statement:

The Corporation cautions that past results or discoveries on the adjacent project (e.g. Great Bear Resources' Dixie Gold Project) may not necessarily be indicative as to the presence of mineralization on the Corporation's project (e.g. Dixie Gold's Red Lake Gold Project).

Qualified Person:

Mr. Garry Clark, P. Geo., of Clark Exploration Consulting, is the "Qualified Person" as defined in NI 43-101, who has reviewed and approved the technical content in this press release.

About Dixie Gold Inc.:

Dixie Gold Inc. (TSXV:DG) is a publicly-traded exploration company involved in a diverse portfolio of exploration projects in Canada. For more information, please visit www.dixiegold.ca.

Signed,

Ryan Kalt

Chief Executive Officer

Dixie Gold Inc.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions and therefore, involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those currently expected or forecast in such statements.

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.

Contact Info:

Ryan Kalt

Chief Executive Officer

Dixie Gold Inc.

E. info@dixiegold.ca

W. www.dixiegold.ca

SOURCE: Dixie Gold Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/608656/Dixie-Gold-Inc-Commences-One-of-the-Largest-Airborne-Geophysical-Surveys-in-History-of-Red-Lake
A Malaysian worker pours roasted coffee beans into a pot of bubbling, melted sugar as an ageing machine stirs the ingredients into a sticky black mixture over a crackling wood fire.

The Antong mill, believed to be the oldest such set-up in Malaysia, has been using the same methods to produce its popular coffee for almost nine decades.

"I want to let young people know what coffee factories looked like 50 or 100 years ago," Thian Boon Chung, the boss of the small mill in the Malaysian town of Taiping, told AFP.

"I want them to appreciate the old ways of making coffee."

The mill -- built by Thian's grandfather and two others in 1933 -- is a small wooden building with a zinc roof.

It houses machines for roasting coffee, removing the husk from beans and mixing them up with sugar.

Many of the contraptions are original, dating from when the factory started operations, although their motors have been replaced.

The mill workers use wood gathered from construction projects and abandoned houses to roast the beans, giving it a distinct, smoky flavour.

Thian said his wood-roasted coffee tasted better than other varieties: "It has 'power' in the taste that cannot simply be explained by words."

After the beans are mixed with sugar, they are dried and crushed into a coarse powder before being packaged and sold to restaurants and other customers.

The mill can produce up to 2,000 kilograms (4,400 pounds) of coffee products a day, with half its beans sourced in Malaysia and the rest imported.

The type of sweet coffee produced at the factory has long been popular in Malaysia, where many like their drinks sugary, and is commonly served at restaurants.

pl/sr/jah
The entire nation is furious over the horrific incident that took place in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh. For the unversed, on September 14, a girl was found beaten, tortured and with her tongue cut. She was first admitted to Aligarh Muslim University's Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and Hospital, and then shifted to Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi. Unfortunately, the victim couldn't make it and breathed her last on Tuesday (September 29, 2020). This led to major protests across the country, and many B-town celebrities also raised their voices against the inhumane incident.

Now, actress Alia Bhatt and actor Sidharth Malhotra have also reacted to the Hathras case, and expressed their anger on the incident.

Alia wrote, "They cut her tongue but they could not silence her. She now speaks in a billion voices. #Hathras."

Alia Bhatt: I Want To Punch All Those People Who Say Star Kids Have It Easy [Flashback]

Sidharth wrote, "#HathrasCase is unacceptable! History keeps repeating itself again and again & it's time for this to stop! Requesting all concerned authorities to act and punish the criminals at the earliest."

Apart from Alia and Sidharth, Kriti Sanon also reacted to the horrific incident and wrote, "Gut wrenching!! Angry! When will these MONSTERS fear the consequences of such inhuman acts?? I cannot think of a punishment that would be enough for such brutality!! Death by hanging? Shot in the head? death by stoning in public? Somehow still feels less than what they deserve!!"

She further wrote, "Every single time i read about a sexual assault/abuse/Rape case it saddens me so so deeply & boils my blood at the same time! I genuinely feel we need stricter laws & much more horrifying punishments to generate FEAR!! And fast track judgements on such cases! Folded hands #HathrasHorror."

Earlier, celebrities like Akshay Kumar, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Parineeti Chopra, Kangana Ranaut, Priyanka Chopra, etc. have reacted to the inhumane incident.

(Social media posts are unedited.)

Ranbir -Alia   Riddhima    , viral  video| FilmiBeat

Priyanka Chopra Seeks Justice For Hathras Gang-Rape Victim; Asks 'Is The Law Muted To Screams'
Many of our beloved California parks have recently caught fire. Some are currently on fire or threatened by new fires, while others remain shrouded in smoke, and still more are badly damaged and closed indefinitely. Meanwhile, COVID-19 has left indoor spaces unsafe while jeopardizing our mental health, intensifying our need to spend time in the great outdoors.

While we hope for a speedy recovery in the parks and surrounding areas that are struggling, we're here to provide ideas for natural escapes that remain safe and accessible. They may not be the most well-known or popular parks, but during this uniquely challenging time, exploring a park thats less crowded and a bit further afield might be just the thing. Visitors are also important for the small businesses, which have been decimated by the pandemic, that surround these parks.

When Yosemite National Park is smoky or crowded, consider Lassen Volcanic National Park



Even before Yosemite National Parks AQI skyrocketed, getting in during the pandemic was a hassle. (Just ask the congressman who used his position to pressure the park to giving him a vehicle pass). And while Yosemite is clearly one of Californias top natural experiences, few people realize that Lassen Volcanic National Park is in some ways equally stunning, with the added bonus of four kinds of volcanoes, one of which you can even hike inside.



In addition, surrounding landscapes have hilarious names like Bumpass Hell  a geothermal zone with bubbling pools and billowing steam clouds  and Devastated Area, where you can view the aftermath of Lassen peaks 1915 explosion. Climbing the peak gives a view of all the land (and some rare alpine plants), while hiking the easy loop around Manzanita Lake gives the best views of the peak itself. Look out for otters, though. The lake was closed to swimming earlier in the summer after a mother otter went into protective mode and sent a visitor to the hospital.

franckreporter/Getty Images

Since Big Basin is closed for a year, try a road trip to Redwood National and State Parks



Big Basin Redwoods State Park cant be replaced in our hearts, and its yearlong closure leaves a gaping hole in our outdoor repertoire. While the Bay Area features plenty of other lovely redwoods stands, including Armstrong Redwoods, Muir Woods and Redwood Regional Park, we recommend a more elaborate endeavor. Have you considered a pilgrimage to the tallest of Californias tall trees?



Redwood National and State Parks is actually five parks in one, and they are uncrowded (read: less COVID-y) in comparison with other old-growth redwood attractions. The parks contain the three tallest trees in the world, and though the locations are kept secret, you can wander among the giants thinking about how a whooping 379-footer towers somewhere nearby. The region contains 45% of the worlds redwoods and was thusly named a World Heritage site. Trust us: Theres a reason that scenes from "Star Wars" and "The Lost World: Jurassic Park" were filmed in these woods. In addition to tranquil hikes, regional highlights include scenic coastline, gushing rivers and waterfalls, grazing Roosevelt elk, fern-filled canyons, quirky little towns and plenty of good patches of Earth to pitch a tent.

Ashley Harrell

While fire still burns near Big Sur, think about Mendocino Headlands State Park



Theres no topping Big Sur for car cruise along craggy seaside cliffs. And while Highway 1 has reopened and steady progress has been made in containing the Dolan fire, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park may be closed until 2021, and the air quality remains undesirable for camping. For those who simply cannot wait for seaside romance and wind-whipped cypresses, we recommend heading north instead, to Mendocino Headlands State Park.



In this former whaling village, New England salt box cottages perched atop a blustery headland and the rocky coves are blanketed in berry bramble. You can hike along the bluff or relax on the sand below, and its only a short walk back to town for a brew at the Irish pub or an exquisite meal at one of the outdoor restaurants (book well ahead for this). On a recent Friday, we even stumbled on live music at Luna Trattoria.

Douglas Klug/Getty Images

Pass on Point Reyes and go see whales at the Channel Islands



Point Reyes National Seashore is inarguably in a league of its own. But as of press time, Limantour Road and all of its trails, beaches and campgrounds were shuttered, along with the parks visitors centers, and the air quality wasnt looking great. In addition, a bunch of the roads are being worked on. We happen to know a place that has no issues with roads, but is also a great spot for whale watching this time of year: the Channel Islands.



Californias Galapagos, as some call these five islands, are off most travelers radars. But the secluded archipelago offers top-notch hiking, kayaking, camping and even scuba diving in kelp forests. Moreover, at this time of year, the fog starts to clear and lately, visitors have spotted quite a few blue whales. The boats out of Ventura Harbor are running at limited capacity due to COVID, so youll definitely want to book your seats at least three weeks in advance.

Lastly, we'd like to emphasize that COVID is presenting unique challenges for travel in 2020. If you do make the decision to visit one of the parks, check in with the latest Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines to keep yourself and others safe and healthy. Also keep mind that the situation with the fires is fluid, and check park websites for updates before setting off.

Ashley Harrell is an associate editor at SFGATE who covers Californias parks. Email: ashley.harrell@sfgate.com | Twitter: @AshleyHarrell3

We love California's parks just as much as you do, so we're launching a newsletter that covers them top to bottom - sign up here.
It is important for the public sector banks (PSBs) to focus on language training of their officers if they want to be in the league of all India services such as the Indian Administrative Service or the Indian Foreign Service, said Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday.

Addressing the launch of the common foundation training programme for PSB officers, the FM said: I would think it is important for officers, especially the new recruits, to decide on that one language in which they would want to specialise on a voluntary basis. Providing banking services ...
H&M raises revenue in Ukraine by 59% in national currency in third fiscal quarter

The Swedish company Hennes & Mauritz AB (H&M), the owner of Europe's second largest clothing chain, increased revenue in its Ukrainian stores by 59% in hryvnias in the third fiscal quarter (June 1-August 31).

According to the company's report, for the third financial quarter, H&M sales in Ukraine amounted to SEK 86 million ($ 9.65 million), which is 1.5 times more than in the same period of 2019 (SEK 56 million, or $ 6.28 million). Thus, the growth in Swedish krona was 54%, and in hryvnia 59%.

During this period, the company launched two new stores in Ukraine, thus expanding the network to five objects (all in Kyiv).

Overall, over the nine months of the fiscal year, H&M increased revenue by 10%, to SEK 156 million (SEK 142 million in the nine months of 2019), while sales in hryvnias increased by 5%.

H&M Hennes & Mauritz LLC was established in 2013.
Evan Weber, political director of the Sunrise Movement, a group of youthful climate activists, called it a victory that the Green New Deal got any debate time at all. Still, he said his group reached out to Bidens campaign about the nominees pointed distancing of himself from the plan, arguing that it could cost him votes. The Biden campaign listened to the concerns, he said, and Biden eased their worries when he told reporters that while he has his own plan, the Green New Deal was not bad.
The traditional leaf-peeping season in mid-October may not be a thing this year in the traditional spots in northern Pennsylvania.

Fall colors appear to be coming early this year to spots like Cross Fork in Potter County, which is todays top fall foliage spot in Pennsylvania.

In more than 60 years of coming to Cross Fork, I have never seen such an early fall foliage year, said outdoor writer Karl Power. "Here it is the last week of September, and the autumn leaf colors have peaked, two to three weeks early.

The people coming up to enjoy the fall foliage colors the second and third weeks of October are going to be disappointed with all of the leaves off the trees and on the ground.

Cross Fork, a village in the middle of the vast forests of northcentral Pennsylvania, is a popular hunting camp spot for families and groups of hunters from across the state.

Its probably best known in the modern context as one of the last four communities in Pennsylvania still holding organized rattlesnake hunts, although this year the hunt was canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Previous spots covered in our series of Todays Top Fall Foliage Spot in Pennsylvania:

Cross Fork is a former logging town that in the early 1900s had a population of a few thousand but declined quickly after the surrounding mountains had been most denuded by clear-cut lumber operations.

A dense and vast forest has grown back across the region and become the modern attraction of the area, more from the perspective of tourism than logging.

Share your suggestions for Todays Top Fall Foliage Spot in Pennsylvania throughout the 2020 fall foliage season by sending your thoughts, and a current photo of your pick for top spot if you have it, to Marcus Schneck at mschneck@pennlive.com.
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, will offer PCR tests included in all air tickets booked by customers in the UAE for flights departing from Abu Dhabi International Airport, with the exception of services to China.

This offer is valid from October 1 until December 31, 2020.

The airline is collaborating with Life Medical Diagnostic Center (Life Dx) to offer convenient testing between 48 to 96 hours prior to departure, at its network of collection facilities in the UAE. Travellers flying First or Business will also have the option of selecting tests at their home. The quick and easy process can be booked directly with Life Dx.

Dr Nadia Bastaki, Etihad Aviation Group Vice President Medical Services, said: This is a significant development which allows Etihad to provide greater ease of travel for those departing from Abu Dhabi, by removing as much inconvenience from the PCR testing process as possible. This follows on perfectly from the recent introduction of complimentary Covid-19 insurance cover on all Etihad Airways tickets.

We are confident this partnership will provide Etihad, and most importantly our guests, with Life Dxs superior testing technologies so they can travel from the capital with greater peace of mind. This is one further step in the efforts being made by Etihad to provide a professional, secure and protected travel experience at every stage of their journey with us.

Etihad advises all travellers to visit www.etihad.com/destinationguide for detailed information on country-specific PCR testing requirements, lists of applicable medical testing facilities, and entry regulations.

Hosam Fouad, Founder and CEO of Life Medical Diagnostic Center, said: We are delighted to announce our strategic partnership with Etihad Airways to manage their passengers Covid-19 PCR testing requirements.

The solutions main concept is to ramp-up the capacity of Life Dxs central lab for up to 40,000 tests a day through fully automated state-of-the-art robotic systems and to create a wide network of sample collection centres through partnering with selected healthcare providers across the UAE. Now passengers can book their appointments online easily at their most convenient location and time before their flight.

Travellers flying to China from Abu Dhabi are subject to specific testing protocols and can only use SEHA testing facilities. They must show a negative Covid-19 PCR test result from a government approved testing facility within 48 hours prior to departure, for approval to board.

For all other travellers leaving the UAE from Abu Dhabi, a negative Covid-19 PCR test result will be required within 96 hours prior to departure. Those travelling to Morocco will also require an lg antibody test.

For those who wish to book their tests separately, Etihad Airways is also collaborating with SEHA and Mediclinic Middle East, to offer departing travellers the option of convenient PCR testing, for a fee, at their home, or at selected facilities in the UAE prior to their travel.

Flying to, from, and via Abu Dhabi is being greatly supported by the Etihad Wellness sanitisation and safety programme, which ensures the highest standards of hygiene are maintained at every stage of the customer journey. This includes specially trained Wellness Ambassadors, a first in the industry, who have been introduced by the airline to provide essential travel health information and care on the ground and on every flight, so guests can fly with greater ease and peace of mind. More information on the stringent measures being taken by Etihad Airways to provide a healthy and hygienic travel experience is available at etihad.com/wellness, the airline said. -TradeArabia News Service
damircudic/iStockBy KATIE KINDELAN, ABC News



(NEW YORK) -- When the coronavirus pandemic closed schools and daycare centers in Colorado earlier this year, Tina Carroll faced a no-win choice: Keep her job at a local university, which required her to work in-person, or quit her career to stay home with her 6-year-old son.



Carroll, a single mom in Denver, could not afford to quit her job, so she sent her son to live with relatives in Georgia for the summer.



Now with the school year back underway via virtual learning, Carroll is paying an additional nearly $1,200 month for childcare, an amount she says is not sustainable for even the very near future.



"I had to figure out an amount of money to get me through an 8 to 5 workday," Carroll told ABC News' Good Morning America. "But it's a huge sacrifice."



"I feel like working parents are at their tipping point," she said.



More specifically, the childcare crisis cracked wide open by the coronavirus pandemic has put mothers in the workplace at a tipping point, one that could set them back for generations, according to experts who are calling the current economic crisis a "shecession" because of its disproportionate impact on women.



The unemployment rate for adult women was 8.4% in August, compared to 8% for men, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).



Women ages 25-44 are almost three times as likely as men to not be working during the pandemic due to childcare demands, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.



Mothers who are working from home during the pandemic, especially those with young children, have reduced their working hours four to five times more than fathers have, according to a study published in the journal Gender Work & Organization.



Meanwhile, as many as 50% of childcare centers in the U.S. could close by the end of the year if they are not provided with more assistance, according to Rhian Allvin, CEO of the National Association for the Education of Young Children, a nonprofit association.



"The COVID crisis has exposed the fragility of the [childcare] sector," Allvin told Good Morning America. "It's costly to operate and what we know is parents can't pay more and early childhood educators can't earn less."

How we reached a 'tipping point' for working moms



With women at the helm, caregiving has long been devalued in the U.S., resulting in low pay and little public investment, according to Sonya Alice Michel, professor emerita of history at the University of Maryland.



"It really wasn't until World War II that women were drafted into the labor force and governments realized that, if women worked, they'd need some kind of child care for their children," said Michel. "After the closing of the wartime childcare centers, it wasn't until the women's movement in the 1960s and '70s that childcare became highlighted as a public issue."



Without any public mandate for childcare to ensure that women could thrive in the workforce, the childcare system was left as a patchwork system operating with little public infrastructure, driving up costs while the predominantly female childcare workforce makes on average $11 per hour.



At the same time women face a gender pay gap where they earn around 80 cents for each dollar their male coworkers make, and the costs of childcare now exceed $20,000 per year in nearly two dozen states, according to Child Care Aware of America, a nonprofit organization that works to make child care in the U.S. high-quality and affordable.



At home, women more often than men take on the tasks of "invisible labor," adding to their workload.



During the pandemic, the number of women who cited childcare or family responsibilities as the reason for leaving the workforce increased 178%, while the number of men citing it less than doubled, according to an analysis of Census Bureau data by Nick Bunker, economic research director for North America at the Indeed Hiring Lab.



Once women leave the workforce because of these strains, it is harder to return and they face a trajectory of decreased pay over the course of their careers, data shows.



The difficulty is even worse for women of color, who report higher levels of difficulty finding child care than white mothers, who often live in so-called "daycare deserts," research shows, and who face even greater income inequality than white women.



Kenya Bradshaw, vice president of an education company with 500 employees, said she started seeing an overwhelming number of female employees using up vacation days early on in the pandemic, and is now seeing them leave their jobs because of childcare issues.



"Many of our women actually make more than their husbands, but they are the ones who are the lead childcare provider, so because of that, their families are also taking on some additional economic strain," she said. "These are middle class women I'm talking about in most cases."



"I'm concerned about the burden of low to moderate wage employees who don't even have the flexibility to make that decision," added Bradshaw, who received thousands of replies when she posted about the topic on social media.



"If the school is the only institution that is keeping us from breaking as a country, then we have a problem and we need to fix that," she said. "This is not an individual household problem and we as a country need to think about this."

What happens next



Working moms total about 23.5 million in the U.S., or nearly one-third of all employed women, according to Census data.



For the economy to come back even stronger after the pandemic, the needs of working moms when it comes to childcare cannot be ignored, experts say.



"Childcare is the backbone to the American economy and lack of childcare is the biggest barrier for women to be fully employed," said Allvin. "Without safe, affordable, high quality childcare, the rest of America doesn't work."



The childcare industry was allotted $3.5 billion in emergency aid in March under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, or Cares Act, which also gave some parents eligibility for unemployment benefits, but childcare advocates say it is not enough to help the industry long term.



Also not enough, advocates say, are the state policies that popped up to try to help childcare centers during the pandemic.



"A lot of those were temporary fixes and may not be extended as states reopen," said Lynette Fraga, Ph.D., CEO of Child Care Aware of America. "There is no doubt that a federal solution is absolutely necessary, and a federal investment, supported by state solutions and state-by-state policies, that can raise up that federal solution."



One federal solution, the Child Care Is Essential Act, sponsored by Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), would give $50 billion to help childcare centers during and after the coronavirus pandemic. The legislation passed the House of Representatives in July, but is stalled in the Senate, where it is sponsored by Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA).



Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden has included caregiving as part of his economic plan.



The former vice president's plan, announced in July, centers around expanding access to long-term care for elderly and disabled Americans, as well as creating accessible, safe childcare options for working parents. The plan would create 1.5 million new jobs in both fields and would also focus on increasing pay for caregivers and early childhood educators, say advisers.



In December, President Donald Trump unveiled his administration's Principles for Child Care Reform, which calls for putting parents first and increasing childcare choices for families, reauthorizing and reforming the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) Act, modernizing the childcare business model and improving the implementation of background checks for childcare providers, among other proposals.



President Trump has always prioritized increasing access to affordable, high quality child care in America, and in the midst of an unprecedented pandemic, thats never been more important," Samantha Zager, deputy national press secretary for the Trump campaign, told GMA in a statement. "Hardworking parents across America are empowered under President Trump, and hell continue his focus on ensuring the U.S. is the best place in the world to conduct business, work, and raise a family over the next four years.



In the U.S., parents spend about $42 billion per year on early care and education, while public spending, a mix of federal, state and local government money, is about $34 billion, according to the Economic Policy Institute, a nonprofit, nonpartisan think tank.



In a 2015 report showing public spending on early childhood education and care as a percentage of countries' GDPs, Iceland and Sweden topped the list, while the U.S. ranked nearly last.



"It's so unwise for the government to not fund childcare," said Michel. "It has long-term consequences, not just for individuals and families but for society as a whole."



Copyright  2020, ABC Audio. All rights reserved.
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Thu, October 1, 2020 08:13 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4857461 1 City MRT-Jakarta,MRT,Jakarta-administration,COVID-19,COVID-19-Jakarta Free

City-owned transportation company PT MRT Jakarta has prohibited passengers wearing one-layered neoprene fabric masks, also known as "scuba" masks, from boarding MRT trains.

PT MRT Jakarta director William Sabandar said the policy was based on research showing that neoprene masks could not protect people against COVID-19.

However, MRT passengers are allowed to wear three layers of scuba masks, he added.

We ban the use of one-layer scuba masks because they have been proven ineffective from protecting us against the virus, William said on Wednesday as quoted by kompas.com.

Earlier on Monday, the Health Ministry advised the public against wearing "scuba" masks and buff masks as they did not meet health requirements.

The ministrys disease control and prevention general director, Achmad Yurianto, called on the public to use either an N95 mask, surgical mask or cloth mask.

Yurianto added that it was highly advisable to add an extra layer inside of a cloth mask for more protection.

On Wednesday, Jakarta reported 1,159 more confirmed COVID-19 cases, bringing the total number of infections in the city to 73,736. (aly)
The European health regulator has started reviewing data on AstraZeneca and Oxford Universitys potential COVID-19 vaccine in real time, the first of such moves aimed at speeding up any approval process in the region for a vaccine.

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) said on Thursday its human medicines committee is evaluating the first batch of non-clinical data on the vaccine from laboratory studies, and will continue to do so till sufficient data is available for a final decision. (https://bit.ly/36qyDZM)

The EMA uses rolling reviews" to speed up evaluations of promising drugs or vaccines during a public health emergency, subverting the typical process by assessing data as it is submitted, rather than waiting for all data to be made available along with a formal application.

The healthcare regulator employed a similar real-time review of Gileads remdesivir as a treatment for COVID-19 earlier this year, and the antiviral treatment was given conditional approval for use just months later in July.

The news of the European review also raises chances of the British vaccine becoming the first to be approved in Europe for the disease caused by the novel coronavirus which has killed more than a million people globally.

Called AZD1222 or ChAdOx1 nCoV-19, it is seen as leading the race for a successful vaccine against COVID-19. Other vaccine hopefuls in advanced stages include those from Pfizer, Moderna and Sinovac.

Thursdays news also comes just weeks after several global trials of AZD1222 were halted due to an unexplained illness in a study participant. While most studies have resumed, U.S. trials are still on pause as regulators widened their probe, Reuters reported on Wednesday.

This (review) does not mean that a conclusion can be reached yet on the vaccines safety and effectiveness, as much of the evidence is still to be submitted to the committee," the EMA said.

Both Oxford and AstraZeneca welcomed the review, and the British drugmaker in a statement said it was committed to providing the EMA with all necessary data, including those on quality control.

Early-stage data in July showed the vaccine elicited immune responses in trials and produced no serious side effects, with the strongest responses seen in people who received two doses. Data on late-stage trials are expected soon.

The EMA would make final recommendations, once the review is completed, to the European Commission, which has the ultimate say over approvals. The commission typically follows EMA endorsements.

Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor
Thick smoke hampered efforts to slow the spread of the Glass Fire in Napa and Sonoma counties Thursday even as more than 2,500 firefighters braced for strong, dry winds this weekend that could overwhelm the containment lines established so far.

The threat is especially fierce in Napa County, where Calistoga and a number of smaller communities are under evacuation orders. The fire that began Sunday night grew to 58,880 acres as of Thursday evening  consuming an additional 7,500 acres in just 24 hours.

The fuel conditions are so dry, its very receptive and the spread of fire is almost imminent, Cal Fire Chief Mark Brunton said Thursday. Its going to be a big firefight for us for the next 36 hours.

Already, the Glass Fire has destroyed a total of 220 homes in Napa and Sonoma counties, up from 143 on Wednesday. Theres also been severe damage to some of Napas most renowned wineries and resorts. An additional 28,835 structures are threatened, according to Cal Fires update Thursday evening.

More than 20 major fires continue to burn in California, with nearly 4 million acres incinerated so far, well past the previous record year of 1.54 million acres scorched.

We are dwarfing that previous record and we have a lot of season yet to go, said Chief Thom Porter, director of Cal Fire. He also warned that the increasingly savage fire seasons in the state pose a long-term danger.

Santiago Mejia / The Chronicle

We need every piece of the system to be raised to meet the challenge that a changing climate is giving us, he said. Every acre in California can and will burn someday and we need to embrace that and become resilient to it.

Gov. Gavin Newsom, touring fire-ravaged areas in Napa County Thursday, said he is committed to pushing more money from the state budget to firefighting efforts. Despite recent increases, there arent enough resources to handle all the fires burning at once.

Another obstacle is the fatigue  both among firefighters who have been putting their lives at stake for more than a month and, in the case of the Glass Fire, North Bay residents who already endured large fires in late August and early September.

To have this type of impact twice in one month  its tough, said state Sen. Bill Dodd, who accompanied Newsom on Thursday. Unfortunately, Napa is getting very good at dealing with emergencies.

Despite the red flag warnings for at least the next two days, winds on Thursday were some of the calmest they had been all week in Napa Valley. Poor visibility from the smoke meant that by late in the afternoon, helicopters no longer could be used to drop water on fast-growing blazes near the hamlet of Angwin and other areas.

As the day wore on, several crews worked along Highway 29 between Calistoga and Middletown, where a blaze began in a valley on the east side of the highway. Flames snaked near the house as firefighters worked to save the structure.

A few small explosions could be heard from the fire, sending embers into the trees above.

Crews also worked on an active fire along Diamond Mountain Road, which winds through thick mottled brush. The active fire was near the front of the road, but both sides of the rural drive were still smoldering from a previous days fire. Weakened trees and power lines draped themselves precariously over the road, while rocks slid from a nearby hill into the street.

The cause of the Glass Fire blaze was still under investigation, with Cal Fire officials and other agencies looking at an area on the 200 block of North Fork Crystal Springs Road, in St. Helena, including the Cakebread Winery.

Cal Fire has informed us that it is looking at a number of properties along with ours and has yet to conclude its investigation, according to a statement from Katie Griesbeck, the winerys sales and marketing director.

Andrew Kennedys home was among the 143 lost so far to the Glass Fire.

After calling Napa County home for all of his 30 years, Kennedy said the disaster will force him to move, either to San Diego or farther north in California.

It wasnt an easy decision to make, but the fire, which also burned down his sons elementary school, left him no choice.

Noah Berger/Associated Press

We cant all just sit here and hold ashes in our hands, he said.

Fire dangers werens confined to Napa and Sonoma.

Across Northern California there are active warnings that winds from the northwest could start new fires. The areas covered include the East Bay hills and the Santa Cruz Mountains at least until Saturday morning.

In Oakland, fire officials added staffing to stations, especially in the hills, where companies will be on roving patrols through the red flag warning, said Michael Hunt, department spokesman.

The stations were on alert for specific threats to prevent a fire from breaking out, including residents using power tools, or people congregating in parks.

While most of the current firefighters were too young to have been on staff during the 1991 Oakland f irestorm, they dont need to be reminded of the potential devastation, Hunt said.

The firefighters who have less than 10 years experience have seen the entire state blow up in the last few years, he said. They dont need to go back to 1991 to know what could happen.

So far, Oakland and much of the East Bay hills have been spared by this years record wildfire season, which is a measure of luck and intentional work to maintain vegetation, including the use of goats year-round to clear grass, Hunt said.

But fireworks continue to be a significant issue, especially around the Steam Train in Tilden Park, he added. In addition, the city is seeing other kinds of reckless behavior like the large gathering a few weeks ago that included electrified speakers and instruments for a live concert on the hill, he said.

Its possible Grizzly Peak Boulevard could be closed for the rest of the fire season to anyone but locals. Currently, parking and stopping  even at turnouts  is prohibited between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.

To park and stop and even look at the view is too dangerous right now, he said, noting a spark from a car or hot undercarriage is like tossing a cigarette out the window.

Even without a local blaze, gusty winds are expected to whip through the hills and bring with them smoke from the Glass Fire and other Northern California blazes, leading to a smoky smell and unhealthy air quality throughout the Bay Area. The Bay Area Air Quality Management District has issued a Spare the Air alert through Tuesday.

Dry conditions continued to fuel wildfires elsewhere in Northern California, where the states largest-ever blaze, the August Complex in Mendocino County, continued to grow, charring close to a million acres. As of Thursday evening, the blaze had torn through 956,084 acres and was 51% contained.

Firefighters were able to make substantial progress against the deadly Zogg Fire burning west of Redding, with containment growing by Thursday evening to 39%. The fire itself grew on Thursday to 55,803 acres, an increase of a little more than 500 acres from the day before, according to a Cal Fire report on Thursday evening.

Statewide, fires have consumed a record 3.9 million acres, nearly 4% of the states land mass. So far, 30 people have died in the California wildfires and 7,200 structures have been destroyed.

The scene was also relatively calm Thursday on the west flank of the Glass Fire, where threats to Santa Rosa had been contained  in part by shifting winds.

Not soon enough for David Ruschke, though.

His home off Los Alamos Road in Santa Rosa, where he lived for 13 years, sat atop a promontory overlooking landscapes from Sonoma Mountain to Mount Diablo and San Pablo Bay.

On the clearest days, he could see the Pacific Ocean.

Ruschke, 57, had made an evacuation list after he saw the destruction of last months Walbridge Fire, part of the LNU Lightning Complex, that burned through parts of Sonoma County.

But Ruschke couldnt find the list when the evacuation order came on Sunday, so he ended up taking random belongings with him, like his old musical recorder from elementary school. He did remember one of his most prized possessions: a tape he made of a voicemail his late sister had left him, singing Happy Birthday to You.

Then he fled. It would be his last time in his three-bedroom house, which was torched along with his neighbors homes. The Glass Fire burned so hot that it melted part of the rims on the cars, leaving shiny puddles of metal on the ground.

On Wednesday, he stood among the ruins.

Its an unbelievable view, Ruschke said. I used to hang out in the hot tub and just look at the stars with a glass of wine in my hand because it was so beautiful.

San Francisco Chronicle

staff writer Michael Cabanatuan contributed to this story.

Correction: The name of Cal Fires director was misspelled in an earlier version of this story. He is Thom Porter.

Jill Tucker, J.D. Morris, Michael Williams and John King are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: jtucker@sfchronicle.com, michael.williams@sfchronicle.com, jdmorris@sfchronicle.com; jking@sfchronicle.com
NEW YORK, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- TABLE FOR TWO USA (TFT) invites everyone to participate in its 6th ONIGIRI ACTION campaign from Oct. 1 (Thursday) to Oct 31 (Saturday). This campaign aims to provide one million school meals to children around the world. During the campaign, every rice-ball-related post on the campaign website or social media with #OnigiriAction will provide five school meals to children in need.

Post a rice-ball-related photo with #OnigiriAction. For every onigiri photo posted, TABLE FOR TWO USA's sponsor organizations will donate five school meals to children in need.

ONIGIRI ACTION campaign commemorates World Food Day, established by the United Nations. As an NPO with roots in Japan, the campaign highlights onigiri (rice balls), which are a traditional Japanese comfort food made with love for someone special.

The 5th ONIGIRI ACTION campaign of 2019 resulted in great success. In just 45 days, 295,398 onigiri photos were posted and 1,605,978 school meals were provided so that 8,000 children were able to eat for an entire school year. The organization also received two prestigious awards related to SDG (Sustainable Development Goals) and Health and Culture from the Japanese government.

This year, the pandemic is changing people's relationship with food. Surveys show that more people are cooking meals at home. Economic hardship is impacting many households and food insecurity has increased - #OnigiriAction takes center stage to help address this. 2020 has brought increased attention to the role nutritious foods play in the strength of the immune system and overall health, including resilience to viruses. Lifestyle-related health conditions increase the risk and severity of COVID-19.

TFT and its partners plan to organize virtual Onigiri Action events where people can join from home, make onigiri together and post photos. TFT aims to connect everybody around the world through onigiri, get through this difficult time and bring many smiles.

Sponsor Organizations:

For every onigiri photo posted, five school meals will be donated by TFT's generous sponsoring organizations: J.C.C. Fund/Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of New York; JFC International/Nishiki; JCAW Foundation; Zojirushi America; San-J; ITOCHU International; SMBC Global Foundation; Misuzu Corporation; MUFG Union Bank, N.A.; Sumitomo Corporation of Americas; Mishima Foods U.S.A.; Just One Cookbook; BentOn; and Onigilly.

To Learn More:

ONIGIRI ACTION: https://onigiri-action.com/en

TFT USA: https://usa.tablefor2.org/onigiri-action

Products with Donations:

During the campaign, a portion of the proceeds from the products below will be donated towards providing school meals: Nishiki Rice (JFC International); Rice Cooker (Zojirushi America); Tamari Soy Sauce (San-J); Tamaki Gold (ITOCHU International); over 100 onigiri items (Gohan Market); Inari (Misuzu Corporation); Nori Komi Furikake (Mishima Foods U.S.A.); Okonomiyaki Pancake Mix (Otafuku Foods); Just One Cookbook eBook  Essential Japanese Recipes (Just One Cookbook); Brown Rice Plum Basil Hijiki Onigiri/Five Grains Konbu Onigiri (BentOn); Onigilly (Onigilly); Onigiri (Hana Japanese Market); Fresh Miso Soup from Miso Soup Dispenser (Marukome); Echigoya Koshihikari (Echigoya); Sushi Workshop for Good (Sushi Chef Institute); Orinigiri workshop (Orinigiri); and Seasonal Delights Care Package (Kokoro).

About TABLE FOR TWO USA:

TFT is a 501(c)(3) organization that addresses issues of hunger and obesity by providing school meals to children in need and teaching healthy eating to K-12 students in the U.S. through our unique food education program called Wa-Shokuiku - Learn. Cook. Eat Japanese!

Media Contact:

Mayumi Uejima-Carr

Phone: 318-359-9736

Email: [email protected]

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Change the World with Onigiri (Rice Ball) 2020

Post a rice-ball-related photo with #OnigiriAction. For every onigiri photo posted, TABLE FOR TWO USA's sponsor organizations will donate five school meals to children in need.

Related Links

All About Japanese Rice & Rice Balls

Change the World With Onigiri: Onigiri Action

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Dentsu International has now entrusted Gautam Mehra, currently CEO, dentsu Programmatic & Chief Data Officer, dentsu - South Asia, with the additional charge of Chief Data & Product Officer - Asia Pacific (APAC) with immediate effect. He has been assigned to this new role with the intent to build a strong and unified APAC data and product offering across the dentsu network. Based in Mumbai, Mehra will report into Zhengda Shen, President of Merkle APAC for his additional role.

Over the years, Mehra has been responsible for driving the data quotient for dentsu across India and South Asia, both internally and with clients. Notably, he led the creation of dentsus proprietary adtech product, the dentsu Marketing Cloud ecosystem  a cohesive system that brings together a slew of dentsu proprietary ecosystems such as the Facebook Marketing Partner (Ad-Tech) Badged DMC Explore, dentsu Play, dentsu TrueValue and other proprietary mar-tech tools used in over 32 markets globally. He has also led the unification of the Data Sciences and Amnet teams to create dentsu Programmatic, the leading programmatic player in India today.

Mehra started his career 20 years ago with his entrepreneurial venture, which was one of the first Web Development firms in India. Over the years, he did several stints in digital advertising, working with the top brands in the country such as Viacom, Government of India, Standard Chartered Bank and Microsoft. In 2013, he joined dentsu following the acquisition of Communicate2 and led the Social & Display businesses of iProspect, the leading performance marketing and search agency of the country. Subsequently in 2016, he took on the role of Chief Data Officer for South Asia and has driven the groups data narrative in the sub-region.

On the appointment, Ashish Bhasin, dentsu Asia Pacific CEO, said, Data is central to our business strategy and the ability to handle data well and utilise it to its full capacity is critical in fine tuning way of reaching, interacting, and causing a reaction from the consumers; it ensures advertising efforts are in the right direction.

Having Gautam drive this data agenda for us is crucial in the era of data explosion. He has earned a reputation of developing and delivering highly innovative data-led initiatives while embodying the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurism. This is a well-deserved promotion and I look forward to working closely with him, Bhasin added.

Zhengda Shen, President of Merkle APAC, said, Organisations are constantly challenged to evolve with agility and speed and adapt to ever changing consumer dynamics. Providing leadership for clients by integrating data, media, content and technology to navigate through this shifting landscape is a critical function of agencies. Gautams track record for driving innovations and developing globally scaled solutions makes him perfectly placed to help our clients in the region and to ensure that dentsu International continues to lead through innovation.

Gautam Mehra added here, There are almost no limits to what we can uncover by studying consumer behaviour and their interplay with brands. Im excited to apply my leadership, knowledge, and experience in delivering globally adopted tech driven products and solutions to further the data-driven culture of dentsu International and to build the practice across APAC, further cementing our dominance in this area within the region in using cutting edge technology to solve everyday client challenges.
Conception Bay South Mayor Terry French is hopeful that a major water leak on Anchorage Road that called for an emergency fix on Thursday, September 17 is an isolated incident and not part of a larger problem.

Near the end of April, the Town had to deal with four waterline breaks in as many days  one of which was also on Anchorage Road.

In April and May we had several leaks as well, French acknowledged. The first place my mind went is, Now, whats happening? Is this all connected? Early indications are that theres no connection between leaks we had earlier in April and May and the one we currently have.

But French said the town is going to investigate to make sure. It has hired engineering firm CBCL Ltd. to look into the many leaks.

Weve committed to having a third set of eyes look at this, said French. Were hoping to have a report later this month (September), or early next month, so as to give us a really good idea of what happened in April and May. So, we dont believe this is connected, but again, well have that report on what happened in April and May, hopefully by the end of this month. And Im just as curious as every resident in the town. If weve got a problem here, weve got to darn well fix it.

French said while lines do break from time to time, it is unusual to have so many breaks in such a short spell.

This is going to be an open book thing. Once we have that report, we are going to share it with the community, what this third party has discovered. And I have absolutely no idea yet what it will be. But Im certainly looking forward to seeing it, he said.

French said when the most recent leak was discovered on Wednesday, September 16, the town had to react as quickly as possible because of a massive storm that was forecast to hit the island Friday evening.

This is one of those emergency cases where you have to go and get the resources wherever you can get them, said the mayor.

According to French, the main waterline is split down Fowlers Road, which services up to Manuels Bridge, and the other line runs along Peacekeepers Way and services from Manuels Bridge to the border in Seal Cove. All of the towns water comes from Bay Bulls Big Pond.

Sometimes with these small leaks you can put them off until you get all of your ducks in order. But in this case, it was one of our main waterlines, said French.

The Town used its alert system, social media channels, and radio to inform residents of the water shut off.

Unfortunately, a lot of businesses, and schools, and families were affected, said French, adding that he estimated that as much as 70 percent of the population could have been affected by the shut off. Its been a long day, and rough on the residents, and for that I certainly apologise, and certainly feel for them. Its just one of those things that happens. Its something else that 2020 threw at us that we had to deal with.

French said he especially felt bad for the business operators, who had to shut their doors during Snowmageddon and the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Not all businesses chose to shut down however, and many residents did not lose their water at all.

You have to drain the line that youre working on, but we have a reservoir up in Seal Cove thats running through the system as well. So, again, it depends on your elevation and so on, how much pressure you get, and if you have water and if you dont, said French.

The water tank in Seal Cove was full, and, because people likely had water banked in anticipation of the shut off, and because schools were closed, there wasnt a great water demand.

Work was finished by 8:30 p.m., two hours later than the estimated completion time.

We were hoping to be finished by 6:30. Because of the size of the pipe, construction crews had to be really careful because theres not a lot of pipe apparently like this in the province, French said.
Gandhi Jayanti is an opportunity to reconsider some of Gandhis core thoughts on the nature of human existence. This is particularly relevant in the present context when the Covid-19 pandemic has already claimed over a million lives across the world.

It is interesting to reflect on the trajectory of Western capitalist development which has defined human progress since the Industrial Revolution nearly two-and-a-half centuries ago. This was one of Gandhis pet themes. The basic tenets of classical economics were outlined in Adam Smiths foundational tract, The Wealth of Nations, which appeared in 1776. Within the next four decades, Ricardo and Malthus in England and Jean-Baptiste Say in France had laid the full foundations of the classical system.

The watchwords of the classical system were laissez-faire and free trade. Adam Smith was possibly the finest representative of the Scottish enlightenment, and believed that this arrangement would ensure progress for all. But the later writers soon established that the material reality of the world is defined by scarcity.

The onset of the Industrial Revolution brought about extensive and severe disruptions in the lives of the labouring class, even as a wealthy capitalist class was emerging in England. By this time, England was already the premier imperial power. A mere chartered company of the British monarch, the East India Company, was ruling over most of the Indian subcontinent, and the colonies of imperial Britain extended to North America and other parts of the globe.

Classical economics was premised on the basic precept that all rational beings are naturally conditioned to pursue their self-interest. This view was strongly critiqued by a number of radical thinkers, among whom was John Ruskin. In his Unto This Last, Ruskin rejected the Smithian notion of division of labour as dehumanising and argued that classical economics fails to consider the social affections that bind communities together.

The young Gandhi read Ruskins book on a train journey from Johannesburg to Durban in South Africa in June 1904 when he was 34. He was to confess later that this book changed his life forever. He had not been exposed to the writings of Smith and Ricardo till then, but was now determined to apply the precepts of Ruskin in his daily life.

Barely five years later, in 1909, on a voyage from London to South Africa, Gandhiji penned his Hind Swaraj or Indian Home Rule. This was a trenchant critique of Western civilisation, and capitalism in particular. The colonial British government reckoned this to be a seditious piece of work and the pamphlet was proscribed in British India.

Hind Swaraj may be regarded as the social and economic testament of Gandhi. His focus was on those living in the countryside, and he made a strong case to develop rural India as self-sufficient village republics. He fundamentally believed that all able-bodied men and women must be gainfully employed, and he was against machinery to the extent that it displaced labour.

Possibly the greatest original insight of Gandhi was to advocate the principle of limitation of wants. This was the exact obverse of the whole project of Western classical, and later neo-classical, economics, which believed in the continuous expansion of the production possibility frontier. The latter idea is fundamental to the modern-day obsession with growth economics in virtually all genres of Western economic thought.

Among the key classical thinkers, a major exception was John Stuart Mill who argued in favour of a stationary state to conserve the worlds resources.

There have been a few other notable voices too, such as the institutional economist Thorstein Veblen who warned against conspicuous consumption. Gandhis views, quite independently, were in tune with the concerns of these rebel thinkers. The present episode of the pandemic gives us yet another opportunity to revisit Gandhis critique of Western civilisation.

Pulin B Nayak is a former professor, Delhi School of Economics

The views expressed are personal
TORONTO - Parents of students with the sniffles or a headache will no longer have to line up for hours to get their children tested at COVID-19 assessments centres under Ontarios newly amended screening guidelines for schools and daycares.

Dr. Barbara Yaffe, the provinces associate chief medical officer of health, said students with either of those symptoms can return to school after 24 hours if they otherwise feel fine. She said those are only symptoms in about 17 per cent of COVID-19 cases among children, so the change seemed prudent.

Theres all sorts of other causes of a runny nose, theres other viruses circulating in the community, she said. The kid might have just been outside and got a runny nose.

Previously, the government had asked children with either symptom to stay home until they received a negative test result or other medical diagnosis, or were symptom-free for 24 hours. Now kids can return to class even with one of those symptoms after a day.

Ontario is also removing abdominal pain or conjunctivitis from its screening list.

Children with a fever or cough will still be required to stay home, consult with a doctor and receive an alternative diagnosis or a negative COVID-19 test.

Ontarios change comes after British Columbia dropped 10 symptoms, including a runny nose, from their screening guidance last month.

NDP education critic Marit Stiles slammed the Ontario government for its changing guidelines, saying the shifts are giving parents whiplash.

Parents who spent hours and hours in line this week with their little ones waiting for a test  have a right to be frustrated at the horrible lack of clarity on when kids need a test, and when they should return to school or daycare, she said.

Meanwhile, Ontario also announced Thursday that it will give pay raises to personal support workers throughout the health-care system in a bid to recruit and retain them during the pandemic.

Premier Doug Ford said about 147,000 workers in long-term care, hospitals, and community care are eligible for the increase. Personal support workers in long-term care and community care will be eligible for a $3 an hour pay increase, while personal support workers in hospitals will see a $2 an hour pay hike.

The temporary increase begins Thursday and will expire in March 2021, costing the government $461 million. Ford said he has not ruled out continuing the pay raise next year.

As we enter the second wave of COVID-19, we need to stabilize our PSW workforce, he said. We need to make sure that when our loved ones need care, whether at home in a hospital, or in a long-term care, theres a PSW there to support them.

Advocates in the long-term care and home care sectors have said low pay has contributed to personal support worker shortages before and during the pandemic.

The secretary-treasurer of Canadian Union of Public Employees said the announcement was a good first step, but more must be done to address working conditions and compensation for personal support workers.

Wages were always only one part of the problem, Candace Rennick said in a statement What about confronting the disgraceful reality of part-time work, lack of benefits and access to paid sick days, and adequate of hours of care to ensure and enhance quality of life?

Ontario reported 538 new cases of COVID-19 Thursday and three new deaths from the illness. The majority of the cases were reported in the Greater Toronto Area and Ottawa.

In total, 162 people are hospitalized due to COVID-19, including 36 in intensive care.

The province also reported 65 new COVID-19 cases related to schools, including at least 29 among students. Those bring the number of schools with a reported case to 307 out of Ontarios 4,828 publicly funded schools.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 1, 2020.
Before the COVID-19 outbreak swept the globe, the fashion industry had been forced to  or at least attempt  to clean up its reputation as one of the worlds most environmentally harmful industries.

But, according to a damning report by the advocacy group Global Fashion Agenda, progress has been woefully slow. In the past year alone, the fashion industry accounted for four per cent of greenhouse gas emissions and 20 per cent of industrial water pollution.

Garment workers in Dhaka, Bangladesh protest demanding their due wages on September 7, 2020. Photo: Getty Images.

And then, COVID hit bringing everything to a grinding halt. In April and March, fashion and luxury sales dropped by 70 per cent as both shoppers and shops went into lockdown. Workers were also impacted, with garment factories in Bangladesh, where many of the worlds apparel is made, reporting $1.5 billion in cancelled orders.

At that point, all pretence of sustainability took a back seat. With global sales across the industry down between 30 and 40 per cent, and 40 per cent of manufacturers struggling to pay employees and suppliers, the focus shifted from saving the environment to saving businesses.

RELATED:

The problem with normal

This shift was backed by governments around the world in a bid to inject much-needed funds into the flailing fashion industry. In June, UK PM Boris Johnson asked Brits to shop and shop with confidence, and in Australia, PM Scott Morrisons multi-billion dollar stimulus package was designed to get people spending.

Fashion expert Clare Press, who presents the Wardrobe Crisis podcast on sustainable fashion, tells Yahoo Lifestyle that the recovery effort is a double-edged sword.

Consumers are sending "insane amounts" of unwanted fashion and textiles to landfill, says Clare Press.

While she acknowledges that COVID and the associated shutdowns have really hurt the industry and that many people and businesses are suffering as a result, shes also conscious about the negative impact of the race to return to pre-virus times.

Story continues

Its obviously a terrible situation, and I can absolutely understand the desire to get back to normal as soon as possible.

However, in the case of the fashion industry, normal was unsustainable. Weve doubled global clothing production in 15 years, and are sending insane amounts of unwanted fashion and textiles to landfill or the incinerator.

The current production system squeezes the most marginalised (garment workers) at the bottom of the supply chain, leaving millions of women in producing countries, such as Bangladesh, insecure.

An era of fashion shame

Consumers are starting to become aware of this too. Since the pandemic first began, 57 per cent of people who regularly buy fashion items have started to change their behaviour, according to research by McKinsey, with two-thirds of those surveyed believing its now more important than ever to limit the impacts of climate change through the fashion industry.

Increasingly, customers are asking more from brands, says Press. They expect them to do better on environment, social justice, and also on representation, diversity and inclusion.

The brands that will thrive long-term are using this moment to rethink. Rampant consumerism is falling out of style. We might be moving into an era of fashion shame.

Fashion expert and sustainability advocate Clare Press predicts "fast fashion could be the new smoking". Photo: Instagram/mrspress.

Fast fashion could be the new smoking  although I suspect plastic packaging will get there first. Anyway, eventually, brands that dont adapt will die out.

The stats back up Press prediction: as a result of the global pandemic, 65 per cent of consumers want to buy more durable fashion items, and 71 per cent are planning to keep the items they already have for longer, according to the McKinsey research.

Although some of those figures may change when people can socialise more freely and have occasions to dress up again, the tide is undoubtedly changing.

We are moving away from the idea that sustainable materials and processes are a nice-to-have, says Press. They are essential. Customers will start to demand them  or theyll take their money elsewhere. Its not going to happen overnight, but it will happen. Sustainability is about future-proofing a business.

Sustainable shopping tips and tricks

And with Australia officially in recession, and many other countries are following suit, its not surprising that 60 per cent of consumers report spending less on fashion since the pandemic. Encouragingly, around half of those people say these new habits will hang around, even when COVID is no longer.

Simply buying less doesnt equal buying well, Press warns. Its not as simple as buy second-hand or avoid everything cheap, she says.

Since COVID, almost 60 per cent of shoppers who regularly buy fashion items have started to change their behaviour. Photo: Getty Images.

The assumption that just because something is expensive it must have been made with care is wrong. Luxury fashion also has its sustainability issues. Supporting locally-made can be a great option, buying clothes made from circular or organic materials is another. Or renting your clothes or shopping second-hand.

More important is a change in mindset, which is what COVID appears to have done for consumers globally. Its about a new awareness that our consumer choices have impacts, says Press.

We need to foster a more mindful approach to consumption  ask more questions about what we buy, be more rigorous in what we choose to support with our money. Sustainable fashion is about getting reconnected with our clothes and the people who make them. Its fashion with more meaning, more emotion, more reasons to care.

Click here to sign up to our daily newsletter to get all the latest news and hacks. Or if you have a story tip, email us at lifestyle.tips@verizonmedia.com.
(Natural News) Spains military is now running their NATO operations by an obese feminist Gender Advisor to integrate gender perspective into their operations and missions.

(Article by Chris Menahan republished from InformationLiberation.com)

They claim this is crucial to their military operations.

The primary job of our Gender Advisor is to provide guidance and advise on how to integrate gender perspective into operations and missions, Spains NATO Rapid Deployable Corps announced Tuesday on Twitter. This understanding is crucial for the current military operations. #WeAreReady #WeAreNATO

The primary job of our Gender Advisor is to provide guidance and advise on how to integrate gender perspective into operations and missions. This understanding is crucial for the current military operations. #WeAreReady #WeAreNATO pic.twitter.com/XBCMjYM1MZ  CGTAD / HQ NRDC-ESP (@CGTAD_NRDC_ESP) September 29, 2020

The NATO Rapid Deployable Headquarters can be quickly deployed for disaster management, humanitarian assistance, peace support, counterterrorism and high-intensity warfighting, Wikipedia says.

Spains socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez established a feminist government in 2018 which immediately threw open their borders to virtually unlimited migrants.

The Middle East Monitor reported last week that there has been a record flow of migrants from Algeria to Spain over the past few months.

Read more at: InformationLiberation.com and Gender.news.
ExxonMobil is set to post its third straight loss in its upstream business this year, as lower oil demand continues to hurt oil companies profitability.

In an SEC filing on Thursday, Exxon provided a Q3 earnings considerations update of its expectations for the third-quarter results relative to the second quarter. The U.S. supermajor is reporting Q3 financials on October 30.

Exxons upstream business, which booked a loss of US$1.7 billion in Q2, will see its exploration and production division get a boost of between US$1.4 billion and US$1.8 billion in Q3 compared to Q2, thanks to higher crude oil and liquids prices. However, lower natural gas prices are likely to hurt the upstream business with up to US$500 million, Exxons filing showed.

In the downstream  which saw US$1 billion in Q2 earnings  weaker refining margins are set to weigh on the Q3 results with between US$200 million and US$600 million. Changes in the North American crude logistics differentials are also expected to weigh on the downstream with an additional US$200 million.

The Q3 earnings considerations update points to Exxon booking a loss in the quarter of around US$0.30 per share, according to analysts at Tudor, Pickering, Holt & Co, quoted by Reuters.

The Wall Street Journal analyst consensus points to Exxon posting a loss of US$0.08 per share in the third quarter.

For the second quarter, Exxon reported at the end of July its second consecutive quarterly loss, which was the worst loss for the U.S. supermajor in its modern history.

Exxon booked a loss of US$1.1 billion for the second quarter due to the global oversupply and COVID-related demand impacts. This compares with earnings of US$3.1 billion for the same period last year.

Exxons total revenues more than halved to US$32.6 billion for Q2 2020 from US$69.1 billion a year earlier, highlighting the pain that oil companies suffered during one of the worst quarters for the industry ever.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Stripe has led a $12 million Series A round in Manila-based online payment platform PayMongo, the startup announced today.

PayMongo, which offers an online payments API for businesses in the Philippines, was the first Filipino-owned financial tech startup to take part in Y Combinators accelerator program. Y Combinator and Global Founders Capital, another previous investor, both returned for the Series A, which also included participation from new backer Bedrock Capital.

PayMongo partners with financial institutions, and its products include a payments API that can be integrated into websites and apps, allowing them to accept payments from bank cards and digital wallets like GrabPay and GCash. For social commerce sellers and other people who sell mostly through messaging apps, the startup offers PayMongo Links, which buyers can click on to send money. PayMongos platform also includes features like a fraud and risk detection system.

In a statement, Stripes APAC business lead Noah Pepper said it invested in PayMongo because "weve been impressed with the PayMongo team and the speed at which theyve made digital payments more accessible to so many businesses across the Philippines."

The startup launched in June 2019 with $2.7 million in seed funding, which the founders said was one of the largest seed rounds ever raised by a Philippines-based fintech startup. PayMongo has now raised a total of almost $15 million in funding.

Co-founder and chief executive Francis Plaza said PayMongo has processed a total of almost $20 million in payments since launching, and grown at an average of 60% since the start of the year, with a surge after lockdowns began in March.

He added that the company originally planned to start raising its Series A in the first half of next year, but the growth in demand for its services during COVID-19 prompted it to start the round earlier so it could hire for its product, design and engineering teams and speed up the release of new features. These will include more online payment options; features for invoicing and marketplaces; support for business models like subscriptions; and faster payout cycles.

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PayMongo also plans to add more partnerships with financial service providers, improve its fraud and risk detection systems and secure more licenses from the central bank so it can start working on other types of financial products.

The startup is among fintech companies in Southeast Asia that have seen accelerated growth as the COVID-19 pandemic prompted many businesses to digitize more of their operations. Plaza said that overall digital transactions in the Philippines grew 42% between January and April because of the countrys lockdowns.

PayMongo is currently the only payments company in the Philippines with an onboarding process that was developed to be completely online, he added, which makes it attractive to merchants that are accepting online payments for the first time. "We have a more efficient review of compliance requirements for the expeditious approval of applications so that our merchants can use our platform right away and we make sure we have a fast payout to our merchants," said Plaza.

If the momentum continues even as lockdowns are lifted in different cities, that means the Philippines central bank is on track to reach its goal of increasing the volume of e-payment transactions to 20% of total transactions in the country this year. The government began setting policies in 2015 to encourage more online payments in a bid to bolster economic growth and financial inclusion, since smartphone penetration in the Philippines is high, but many people dont have a traditional bank account, which often charge high fees.

Though lockdown restrictions in the Philippines have eased, Plaza said PayMongo is still seeing strong traction. "We believe the digital shift by Filipino businesses will continue, largely because both merchants and customers continue to practice safety measures such as staying at home and choosing online shopping despite the more lenient quarantine levels. Online will be the new normal for commerce."
LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / Cheapquotesautoinsurance.com (https://cheapquotesautoinsurance.com) has launched a new blog post that presents the most valuable discounts which will make drivers get cheaper car insurance.

For more info and free car insurance quotes online, visit http://cheapquotesautoinsurance.com/top-car-insurance-discounts

Clients should profit on all discounts they are eligible for. Insurance companies are known for providing multiple discounts. Drivers are recommended to request their insurer to provide a list of discounts and their respective requirements.

Bundling discount. Since car and home are the most expensive to insure, combining coverage with the same company can provide a discount that will save the client a lot of money. Multi-vehicle plans can also provide significant savings. The value of the discounts varies a lot, depending on the insurer, the number of combined policies and the value of the insured belongings. Some companies are willing to offer discounts as high as 20 percent for these bundled packages.

Good driver discount. Keeping a clean driving record for a specific number of years will be rewarded with a discount. Some insurance companies will offer this discount after three years of safe driving, while others will require 5 years. Another advantage of this discount is that it's usually applied per each driver in the household.

Low-mileage discount. The less a person drives, the lower are the chances to be involved in accidents. Retired persons, those who work from home or have a short commute should ask about this discount. Ask more about the annual mileage that will make the driver eligible.

Good student discounts . This is probably the best way is which teens can save auto insurance money. In order to qualify, the driver must have at least 3.0 GPA or meet additional requirements (like being on the Dean's Honorary List). Report cards or other documents are required in order to qualify.

Good credit score discount. Depending on his credit score, a driver can pay less or more on insurance premium. Studies done by the insurance companies show that drivers with bad credit score have higher chances to file for a claim or miss payments.

Story continues

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Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 21:51:42|Editor: huaxia

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ADEN, Yemen, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- A prisoner swap between the Yemeni government forces and the Southern Transitional Council (STC) was achieved on Thursday in the country's southern province of Abyan, a military official told Xinhua.

"Tribal figures conducted a mediation and successfully exchanged around 206 prisoners between the STC and the government forces in Abyan," the local military official said on condition of anonymity.

He said that that nearly 178 prisoners of the STC's troops were set free in exchange for the release of 28 government soldiers during the swap process supervised by local tribal leaders.

"The government soldiers transferred the STC's prisoners from the southeastern province of Shabwa while the STC brought the government's prisoners from Aden and met together in Abyan," he added.

Representatives of the International Committee of the Red Cross participated in the prisoner swap between the two warring rivals, according to the official.

Local tribal mediators have more than once succeeded in completing prisoner exchanges between local warring Yemeni factions during the past years.

Units of the Aden-based STC engaged in armed confrontations with Yemen's government over the control of key southern provinces last year.

Currently, representatives of the STC and Yemen's government are participating in reconciliation talks in Saudi Arabia's capital of Riyadh to discuss forming a new power-sharing government and ending the conflict.

The impoverished Arab country has been locked in a civil war since late 2014, when the Houthis overran much of the country and seized all northern areas including capital Sanaa. Enditem
[October 01, 2020] Nokia offers world's first automated 4G/5G network slicing within RAN, transport and core domains Press Release Nokia offers worlds first automated 4G/5G network slicing within RAN, transport and core domains Mobile operators can now cost effectively deliver and assure network slicing services at unprecedented speeds



Nokias new automation capabilities offer operators an unmatched solution to deploy network slices within minutes instead of hours or days



The automation capabilities within the network domains extend Nokias 4G/5G end-to-end network slicing solution and slice orchestration functionality announced earlier this year 1 October 2020 Espoo, Finland  Nokia today announced it is the first vendor to offer extreme automation of 4G and 5G network slicing across all network domains, including RAN, transport and core. The company introduces new network management, controller and orchestration capabilities to its solution, enabling mobile operators for the first time to rapidly deliver and assure network slicing services within minutes instead of hours or days. Nokias new automation capabilities, which comply with the 3GPP and IETF slicing specifications, are an extension of its 4G/5G end-to-end network slicing solution announced in February1 and the slice orchestrator announced in June2. First deliveries are planned by the end of 2020. Slice automation enables operators to streamline operations, thereby reducing operational costs and meeting expectations for service velocity. Delivering slicing services quickly and efficiently requires operators to automate the life cycle management of slices in real time across different network domains. Automating the network slice creation and update becomes a key success factor for operators as the number of services, customers and slices continue to surge. Nokias new slicing management solution consists of radio, transport and core domain controllers and assurance tools. Controllers support real-time slice operations and automation for the creation, modification and deletion of a large number of slices in their respective, multivendor domain. Operators can create different customer policies and group profiles for slices with different network performance, quality, routing and security capabilities. This enables them to provide new slicing services for small, medium or large enterprises, private wireless, Internet of Things, fixed wireless access, content and applications. Janne Koistinen, 5G Program Director, Telia Finland, said: Telia is a global forerunner in 4G/5G network slicing, working for end-to-end network slicing since 2019 with Nokia. Our customers require flexible, reliable and secure slicing services, available when and where needed. End-to-end network automation and assurance are critical for us to enable best performing slicing services with efficiency and high quality. Sasa Nijemcevic, Head of Network Automation for Nokias IP/Optical Networks business, said: Nokia is the first vendor to provide slicing in LTE and 5G networks in a multivendor network environment. By adding extreme automation capabilities, we are offering operators a single, modular solution that helps them deliver a new wealth of services at unprecedented speeds. Nokias network domain controllers and assurance tools simplify operations by abstracting the complexity of network functions for the services layer: The end-to-end service orchestration sends declarative instructions to the domain controllers through open APIs.

Each domain controller then determines how the network slices will be implemented and operated within its domain to support the end-to-end SLAs.

Each domain embeds assurance capabilities to automatically collect, monitor, analyze and report Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) data per slice and apply closed-loop optimization to ensure continuous SLA adherence.

This enables operations teams to work together more efficiently in providing end-to-end slicing services, while enabling them to also focus on each teams core expertise. The new capabilities consist of software packages for Nokias existing NetAct and SON/Self-Organizing Networks (radio) and Network Services Platform/NSP (transport and core) operations and assurance products. These capabilities work in conjunction with Nokias Digital Operations Center service orchestration software to complete the round-trip process to design, deploy, optimize and assure slice-based services. Notes to Editors:

1.) Nokia launches end-to-end 4G and 5G New Radio slicing



2.) Nokia launches cloud-native Digital Operations Center software to drive 5G monetization

Resources: Webpage: Nokia end-to-end slicing



Nokia end-to-end slicing Webpage: Nokia Network Services Platform (NSP)



Nokia Network Services Platform (NSP) Video:

Use case: Drone simulation powered by Nokia NSP



Drone simulation powered by Nokia NSP Webpage: Nokia NetAct



Nokia NetAct Webpage: Nokia SON

About Nokia

We create the technology to connect the world. Only Nokia offers a comprehensive portfolio of network equipment, software, services and licensing opportunities across the globe. With our commitment to innovation, driven by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs, we are a leader in the development and deployment of 5G networks. Our communications service provider customers support more than 6.4 billion subscriptions with our radio networks, and our enterprise customers have deployed over 1,300 industrial networks worldwide. Adhering to the highest ethical standards, we transform how people live, work and communicate. For our latest updates, please visit us online www.nokia.com and follow us on Twitter @nokia. Media Inquiries:

Nokia

Communications

Phone: +358 10 448 4900

Email: press.services@nokia.com

Risks and forward-looking statements

It should be noted that Nokia and its businesses are exposed to various risks and uncertainties and certain statements herein that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect Nokia's current expectations and views of future developments and include statements regarding: A) expectations, plans or benefits related to our strategies, growth management and operational key performance indicators; B) expectations, plans or benefits related to future performance of our businesses (including the expected impact and timing of that impact of COVID-19 on our businesses and our customers businesses) and any expected future dividends including timing and qualitative and quantitative thresholds associated therewith; C) expectations and targets regarding financial performance, cash generation, results, the timing of receivables, operating expenses, taxes, currency exchange rates, hedging, cost savings, product cost reductions and competitiveness, as well as results of operations including targeted synergies, better commercial management and those results related to market share, prices, net sales, income and margins; D) expectations, plans or benefits related to changes in organizational and operational structure; E) expectations regarding competition within our market, market developments, general economic conditions and structural and legal change globally and in national and regional markets, such as China; F) our ability to integrate acquired businesses into our operations and achieve the targeted business plans and benefits, including targeted benefits, synergies, cost savings and efficiencies; G) expectations, plans or benefits related to any future collaboration or to business collaboration agreements or patent license agreements or arbitration awards, including income to be received under any collaboration or partnership, agreement or award; H) timing of the deliveries of our products and services, including our short term and longer term expectations around the rollout of 5G, investment requirements with such rollout, and our ability to capitalize on such rollout; as well as the overall readiness of the 5G ecosystem; I) expectations and targets regarding collaboration and partnering arrangements, joint ventures or the creation of joint ventures, and the related administrative, legal, regulatory and other conditions, as well as our expected customer reach; J) outcome of pending and threatened litigation, arbitration, disputes, regulatory proceedings or investigations by authorities; K) expectations regarding restructurings, investments, capital structure optimization efforts, uses of proceeds from transactions, acquisitions and divestments and our ability to achieve the financial and operational targets set in connection with any such restructurings, investments, capital structure optimization efforts, divestments and acquisitions, including our current cost savings program; L) expectations, plans or benefits related to future capital expenditures, reduction of support function costs, temporary incremental expenditures or other R&D expenditures to develop or rollout software and other new products, including 5G and increased digitalization; M) expectations regarding our customers' future actions, including our customers capital expenditure constraints and our ability to satisfy customers needs and retain their business; and N) statements preceded by or including believe, expect, expectations, consistent, deliver, maintain, strengthen, target, estimate, plan, intend, assumption, focus, continue, should", "will or similar expressions. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, which could cause our actual results to differ materially from such statements. These statements are based on managements best assumptions and beliefs in light of the information currently available to them. These forward-looking statements are only predictions based upon our current expectations and views of future events and developments and are subject to risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future. Factors, including risks and uncertainties that could cause these differences include, but are not limited to: 1) our strategy is subject to various risks and uncertainties and we may be unable to successfully implement our strategic plans, sustain or improve the operational and financial performance of our business groups, correctly identify or successfully pursue business opportunities or otherwise grow our business; 2) general economic and market conditions, general public health conditions (including its impact on our supply chains) and other developments in the economies where we operate, including the timeline for the deployment of 5G and our ability to successfully capitalize on that deployment ; 3) competition and our ability to effectively and profitably invest in existing and new high-quality products, services, upgrades and technologies and bring them to market in a timely manner; 4) our dependence on the development of the industries in which we operate, including the cyclicality and variability of the information technology and telecommunications industries and our own R&D capabilities and investments; 5) our dependence on a limited number of customers and large multi-year agreements, as well as external events impacting our customers including mergers and acquisitions and the possibility of our customers awarding business to our competitors; 6) our ability to maintain our existing sources of intellectual property-related revenue through our intellectual property, including through licensing, establishing new sources of revenue and protecting our intellectual property from infringement; 7) our ability to manage and improve our financial and operating performance, cost savings, competitiveness and synergies generally, expectations and timing around our ability to recognize any net sales and our ability to implement changes to our organizational and operational structure efficiently; 8) our global business and exposure to regulatory, political or other developments in various countries or regions, including emerging markets and the associated risks in relation to tax matters and exchange controls, among others; 9) our ability to achieve the anticipated benefits, synergies, cost savings and efficiencies of acquisitions; 10) exchange rate fluctuations, as well as hedging activities; 11) our ability to successfully realize the expectations, plans or benefits related to any future collaboration or business collaboration agreements and patent license agreements or arbitration awards, including income to be received under any collaboration, partnership, agreement or arbitration award; 12) Nokia Technologies' ability to protect its IPR and to maintain and establish new sources of patent, brand and technology licensing income and IPR-related revenues, particularly in the smartphone market, which may not materialize as planned, 13) our dependence on IPR technologies, including those that we have developed and those that are licensed to us, and the risk of associated IPR-related legal claims, licensing costs and restrictions on use; 14) our exposure to direct and indirect regulation, including economic or trade policies, and the reliability of our governance, internal controls and compliance processes to prevent regulatory penalties in our business or in our joint ventures; 15) our reliance on third-party solutions for data storage and service distribution, which expose us to risks relating to security, regulation and cybersecurity breaches; 16) inefficiencies, breaches, malfunctions or disruptions of information technology systems, or our customers security concerns; 17) our exposure to various legal frameworks regulating corruption, fraud, trade policies, and other risk areas, and the possibility of proceedings or investigations that result in fines, penalties or sanctions; 18) adverse developments with respect to customer financing or extended payment terms we provide to customers; 19) the potential complex tax issues, tax disputes and tax obligations we may face in various jurisdictions, including the risk of obligations to pay additional taxes; 20) our actual or anticipated performance, among other factors, which could reduce our ability to utilize deferred tax assets; 21) our ability to retain, motivate, develop and recruit appropriately skilled employees; 22) disruptions to our manufacturing, service creation, delivery, logistics and supply chain processes, and the risks related to our geographically-concentrated production sites; 23) the impact of litigation, arbitration, agreement-related disputes or product liability allegations associated with our business; 24) our ability to re-establish investment grade rating or maintain our credit ratings; 25) our ability to achieve targeted benefits from, or successfully implement planned transactions, as well as the liabilities related thereto; 26) our involvement in joint ventures and jointly-managed companies; 27) the carrying amount of our goodwill may not be recoverable; 28) uncertainty related to the amount of dividends and equity return we are able to distribute to shareholders for each financial period; 29) pension costs, employee fund-related costs, and healthcare costs; 30) our ability to successfully complete and capitalize on our order backlogs and continue converting our sales pipeline into net sales; 31) risks related to undersea infrastructure; and 32) the impact of the COVID-19 virus on the global economy and financial markets as well as our customers, supply chain, product development, service delivery, other operations and our financial, tax, pension and other assets, as well as the risk factors specified in our 2019 annual report on Form 20-F published on March 5, 2020 under "Operating and financial review and prospects-Risk factors" as supplemented by the form 6-K published on April 30, 2020 under the header Risk Factors and in our other filings or documents furnished with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Other unknown or unpredictable factors or underlying assumptions subsequently proven to be incorrect could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. We do not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent legally required.

[ Back To www.mobilitytechzone.com\LTE's Homepage ]
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (AP)  Sri Lanka's government announced Tuesday that it will ban cattle slaughter, saying it would help the dairy industry and thereby save money used to purchase imported milk powder.

But an analyst said the decision was politically motivated to please the Buddhist majority and would harm dairy farmers.

Cabinet ministers decided at a meeting Monday to immediately amend the Animal Act, the Cattle Slaughter Ordinance and other laws and regulations passed by local authorities regarding cattle slaughter, the government's information department said.

It said the Cabinet believed that an increase in cattle slaughter was making it hard for traditional farmers to acquire cows for dairy farming.

Independent political analyst Kusal Perera called the decision totally counter-productive because no milk industry can sustain itself without a beef industry.

He said the move is more a political decision than an economic one to please the majority Sinhala Buddhist constituency.

Buddhists as well as minority Hindus avoid beef for religious and cultural reasons. Some Buddhist monks and allied groups have long sought a ban on cattle slaughter.

Perera said dairy farming in Sri Lanka is mostly a cottage industry in which individual farmers also raise cattle for side income. Such farmers will have difficulty if they are denied the opportunity to slaughter and sell unproductive, aging cattle.

The Cabinet said it will implement a suitable program for aging cattle that can no longer be used effectively for agricultural purposes, but didnt describe the program.

It also said the government will import beef and provide it at a concessionary price to people who consume it since it will not be produced domestically.

According to government statistics, domestic milk production accounts for 45% of total demand, resulting in imports of $270 million of milk powder in 2018. The country produced over 29,000 tons of beef in 2019, up 1,000 tons from 2018.

Perera said the slaughter ban will particularly target Muslim traders who have a monopoly on the beef trade, but they will shift to other businesses such as poultry and mutton.

Buddhists account for more than 70% of the countrys 20 million people. Ethnic minority Tamils, who are mainly Hindus, comprise about 15% of the population, while 9% are Muslims.
The email from the FDA also pointed out other online links outside of the university where the authorization status of your saliva test seems to be mischaracterized. One of those links was to an Aug. 19 tweet by Pritzker stating that the FDA has just given the green light under their Emergency Use Authorization powers.
India and Myanmar are working to operationalise Sittwe port by the first quarter of 2021 while the tendering process for 69 bridges for the trilateral highway involving Thailand will begin soon, foreign secretary Harsh Shringla said on Thursday.

Shringla made the remarks while co-chairing the India-Myanmar foreign office consultations with permanent secretary U Soe Han. Indias assistance to Myanmar currently stands at $1.4 billion, and New Delhi will provide debt service relief under the G20 Debt Service Suspension Initiative to Myanmar from May to December to mitigate the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Despite the challenges caused by the Covid pandemic, we are working towards operationalising the Sittwe port by the first quarter of next year. With respect to the 69 bridges on the trilateral highway, I am happy to inform you that we will soon be moving forward with the tendering process, Shringla said.

Sittwe port is part of the Kaladan multi-modal transit transport project, which is crucial to Indias plans for the landlocked northeastern states to access the Bay of Bengal through Mizoram and to provide alternative connectivity to Kolkata without having to use the circuitous Siliguri corridor.

Once the port is operationalised through a private operator, Indian goods can be taken via the Aizawl-Zorinpui-Palletwa axis to Kaladan river, and then transferred to Sittwe port.

The India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway has been held up due to problems associated with the stretch in Myanmar and the construction of the bridges is expected to speed up work on the project.

Shringla described security cooperation between the two countries as robust and said both sides were sensitive to each others security concerns. Myanmars handing over of 22 Indian insurgents was deeply appreciated by India as it sent a strong message of deterrence to inimical elements on both sides, he said.

He requested Myanmar for the early conclusion of an extradition treaty, a mutual legal assistance treaty on civil and commercial matters, and an agreement on the transfer of sentenced persons.

As part of defence cooperation, an Indian team for deployment of meteorological squadrons will travel to Myanmar this month, and India will receive Myanmars representative at its maritime Information Fusion Centre for the Indian Ocean.

Shringla also assured the Myanmar side that India is committed to sharing its capabilities for a Covid-19 vaccine with its strategic partners. The two sides also discussed ways to mitigate the pandemics impact, including supply of medicines, equipment and technology.

The consultations, which were held virtually, reviewed overall bilateral ties, including border cooperation and upgrade of border infrastructure, the status of Indias development projects, trade and investment, and cultural cooperation, including the restoration of earthquake-damaged pagodas in Bagan.

With the Joint Trade Committees next ministerial meeting to be held on October 20, Shringla said India is also looking forward to enhancing cooperation in the energy sector. Myanmar, with an energy portfolio of more than $1.2 billion, is the largest destination for Indian investments in oil and gas in Southeast Asia.

The situation in Rakhine state also figured in the discussions. India recently entered into trilateral cooperation with Japan in Rakhine, under which it will create infrastructure for 15 schools. Our efforts towards ensuring an early, safe and sustainable repatriation of internally displaced persons to Myanmar will continue, Shringla said.
LONDON, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Clarivate Plc (NYSE: CCC), a global leader in providing trusted information and insights to accelerate the pace of innovation, announced today it will report its financial results for the third quarter 2020 before the market opens on Thursday, October 29. The press release and earnings supplement, with accompanying financial information, will be posted on the Clarivate investor website at www.clarivate.com. The Company will host a conference call and webcast on Thursday, October 29 at 8:00 AM Eastern Time to review the results.

The live webcast of the call will be accessible through the investor relations section of the Company's website. To join the webcast please visit https://services.choruscall.com/links/ccc201105.htmlhttps://services.choruscall.com/links/ccc200506.htmlhttps://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__services.choruscall.com_links_ccc200227.html&d=DwMFAg&c=OGmtg_3SI10Cogwk-ShFiw&r=gUTuxzUS1UsIb16SBz5wNw-B2Hhn5Mj0GUrJacY2qW4&m=vhXx2ZeRWbZcHd6Muf2C3tGGi51xaUEek2wBWSGU5vs&s=XbYKMcoQknLglZc8kppJyMq1mpiuLK6oQd1bdyBgMF0&e=. A replay will also be available on the investor relations section of the Company's website.

Interested parties may access the live audio broadcast by dialing (888) 317-6003 (in the United States), 412-317-6061 (International) and 866-284-3684 (Canada). The conference ID number is 9584356.

An audio replay will be available approximately two hours after the completion of the call at 877-344-7529 (in the US), 412-371-0088 (International) and 855-669-9658 (Canada). The replay access code is 10139889. The recording will be available for replay through November 12, 2020.

About Clarivate

Clarivate is a global leader in providing solutions to accelerate the lifecycle of innovation. Our bold mission is to help customers solve some of the world's most complex problems by providing actionable information and insights that reduce the time from new ideas to life-changing inventions. Covering scientific and academic research, pharmaceutical, biotech and healthcare intelligence and intellectual property services, we help customers discover, protect and commercialize their inventions using our trusted subscription and technology-based solutions coupled with deep domain expertise. For more information, please visit clarivate.com.

Category: Earnings

Source: Clarivate Plc

SOURCE Clarivate Plc

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Bond producer Barbara Broccoli has confirmed that her new film will be Daniel Craig's final outing as 007.

Speaking on the No Time to Die podcast, named for the upcoming release, she told fans that the blockbuster will be the actor's 'fifth and final'.

The British actor, 52, whose first appearance as Bond was in Casino Royale in 2006, has also previously spoken about leaving the franchise after the next instalment.

End of an era: Bond producer Barbara Broccoli has confirmed that her new film No Time To Die will be Daniel Craig's final outing as 007

Barbara said: 'We consider this film to be a classic Bond film but with a modern twist.

'It's also vitally important because it is the fifth and final one that Daniel Craig is going to be doing, so it's a culmination of everything his portrayal of the character has been through and it ties up all the storylines. It's a pretty epic film, I have to say.'

However, in March this year a movie source said: 'I don't think Daniel is finished with James Bond, despite his previous claims. He was in this same position after Spectre came out, where he said publicly and loudly that he was done and then, as time passed, he just wasn't.

'There is something about this part that scratches an itch and he's not prepared to see it go to another actor yet.'

Over and out: Barbara Broccoli said the upcoming movie 'ties up all the storylines' (pictured with Daniel Craig in 2015)

Craig has previously confirmed the Bond film will be his last after starring in Casino Royale, Quantum of Solace, Skyfall and Spectre.

The star discussed his anxieties over the new script and admitted feeling 'physically very low' was the reason behind the film's five year delay in a recent interview with GQ Magazine.

The actor said: 'I was never going to do one again. I was like, 'Is this work really genuinely worth this, to go through this, this whole thing?' And I didn't feel... I felt physically really low.

'So the prospect of doing another movie was just, like, off the cards. And that's why it has been five years.'

His last turn as Bond was in 2015's Spectre, which at the time was reported to be his final outing as the spy.

Craig said that the 'physicality' of Bond is 'a preparation, in a way', because he would not get the script beforehand.

He said: 'It's making my head go, 'This is what it's going to be'.'

Not happening: Craig has confirmed his next James Bond film will be his last, dismissing claims that he 'isn't ready' to walk away from the long-running franchise

Newbie? Lashana Lynch, who plays Nomi, joins new Bond Girl Ana De Armas as Paloma (R)

Trying to prepare for a role in one of the most popular film franchises in modern cinema without a script also caused him to have anxiety.

He said: 'I have suffered from it in the past. I have suffered because it's been like, 'I can't cope. I can't deal with this'.'

Actress Lea Seydoux has also given fans an idea of what to expect in No Time To Die ahead of its November release.

She described her character's relationship with James Bond as 'a modern love story', explaining fans will see a completely new side to the agent, as Bond settles down with Dr. Madeleine Swann after retiring from active service.

Villainous: Rami Malek is taking the role as lead villain Safin in the movie

The name's Naomie... Naomie Harris, who plays Miss Moneypenny, will star alongside James

Speaking on the Official James Bond Podcast, Lea explained why it was so important to see Bond fall in love again after having his heart broken by Vespa (played by Eva Green) in 2005's Casino Royale.

She said: 'I think that it's also because of Bond and we needed Madeline to tell Bond's story I mean it was important to see Bond in love again because he had this relationship with Vespa but she betrayed him.

'But this time I think she's the real love in a way, I think it's really the film is a love story it's a story between the two of them so it's very unusual for a Bond film to see James Bond in love right? And I think it's quite modern in a way.

Love is in the air! No Time To Die star Lea Seydoux has described her character's relationship with James Bond as 'a modern love story' (pictured in 2015's Spectre)

'In this film it's even more psychological and more emotional and I think that it's something that Daniel as James Bond created with this character.

'He created a character that is more vulnerable and who has flaws and I think that's what we like as an audience and it's true that James Bond is like a... it's not a real world right? But what we like is that in this world we can relate to the characters.'

The 25th film in the franchise finds Bond after he has left active service and is enjoying a tranquil life in Jamaica when his old friend Felix Leiter, played by Jeffrey Wright, from the CIA turns up asking for help.

Last month betting was suspended on Tom Hardy becoming the new James Bond following reports he has been named as Daniel's replacement.

Speculation has reached fever pitch in recent days amid claims the actor, 43, had been offered the iconic part after a successful audition.

All bets on who will be the next Bond are off, after Hardy's odds were slashed from 6/1 to 1/1, amid the swirling rumours about the spy franchise's new lead.

The Venom star has been one of the bookies favourites to take over the role since the market opened in September last year, when he was 9/1 to be cast as Bond.

Romance: The actress explained that fans will see a completely new side to the agent in the long-awaited 25th film in the series, as Bond settles down with Dr. Madeleine Swann

The bets are off! Betting has been suspended on Tom Hardy (pictured in 2015) becoming the new James Bond as fans are convinced he will be named as Daniel's replacement

When the bookmakers market closed, James Norton was the second favourite actor to bag the part at 9/4, followed by Idris Elba (11/2), Sam Heughan (6/1) and Richard Madden (7/1).

Oddschecker spokesperson Callum Wilson: 'For years we've heard speculation about who will replace Daniel Craig as James Bond, and finally it seems that English heart-throb Tom Hardy is the man for the role. '

'The versatile Hardy would certainly be a popular choice  and attracted 54% of all bets in the 24 hours before the market was suspended.'

The movement seems to have shifted following a report from the Vulcan Reporter, in which it claims Hardy is next in line for 007.
FREMONT, Calif., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Boehringer Ingelheim today announced that Lars Dreesmann, PhD, has been named President of the company's US biopharmaceutical development and manufacturing business, Boehringer Ingelheim Fremont, Inc., effective October 1st, 2020. Most recently, Dr. Dreesmann was Head of Global Quality Systems & Product Compliance Biopharma for Boehringer Ingelheim, a role he has held since January 2019. In his new role, Dr. Dreesmann will report to Jean-Michel Boers, U.S. Country Managing Director, President & CEO, Boehringer Ingelheim.

"We are extremely pleased to have Lars take on the leadership of our US biopharmaceuticals business during this critical time of growth," said Jean-Michel Boers, US Country Managing Director, President & CEO, Boehringer Ingelheim. "He is a proven leader with a keen scientific mind and a deep understanding of our business, which he gained during his more than a dozen years in Boehringer Ingelheim's global Biopharmaceuticals headquarters. We wish Lars much success in his new role."

Dr. Dreesmann joined Boehringer Ingelheim in 2007, after earning his PhD in Neurobiology at the University of Tuebingen & University of Hohenheim in Germany. Since joining the company, Dr. Dreesmann has held a series of leadership roles with increasing levels of responsibility within the company's Biopharmaceuticals headquarters in Germany. His research has been published in multiple scientific and medical journals and he holds a patent in the field of neurobiology.

"I'm thrilled to take on this opportunity and humbled by the trust placed in me by senior leadership," said Lars Dreesmann, PhD, President of Boehringer Ingelheim Fremont, Inc. "In my past roles, I've had the opportunity to work with some of the smart, talented members of the US Biopharmaceuticals team. Now I look forward to the chance to more closely collaborate with and learn from this great group as we continue to distinguish ourselves as the leading biopharmaceutical manufacturing organization. On a personal note, my family and I are excited to make our new home in the San Francisco Bay Area."

About Boehringer Ingelheim Fremont, Inc.

Boehringer Ingelheim Fremont, Inc. is the US arm of Boehringer Ingelheim's Biopharmaceuticals enterprise, which is one of its three core businesses, along with Human Pharmaceuticals and Animal Health. Located in the San Francisco Bay Area, the birthplace of the biotech industry, Boehringer Ingelheim Fremont, Inc. is the company's only biopharmaceutical development and manufacturing site in North America. The strategic business produces Boehringer Ingelheim's own biologic medicines, including monoclonal antibodies and other recombinant proteins, as well as those of other biopharmaceutical companies. A leader in the field, Boehringer Ingelheim Biopharmaceuticals provides development and manufacturing services for complex biological medicines to many of the world's largest pharmaceutical companies. To date, Boehringer Ingelheim's Biopharmaceutical Contract Manufacturing business has earned regulatory approvals for 39 of its customers' biologics  five in 2019 alone  in therapeutic areas that include oncology, immunology and rheumatology. Boehringer Ingelheim Fremont, Inc. employs more than 600 full-time professionals, many in highly skilled biomanufacturing roles.

About Boehringer Ingelheim

Making new and better medicines for humans and animals is at the heart of what we do. Our mission is to create breakthrough therapies that change lives. Since its founding in 1885, Boehringer Ingelheim is independent and family-owned. We have the freedom to pursue our long-term vision, looking ahead to identify the health challenges of the future and targeting those areas of need where we can do the most good.

As a world-leading, research-driven pharmaceutical company, more than 51,000 employees create value through innovation daily for our three business areas: Human Pharma, Animal Health and Biopharmaceutical Contract Manufacturing. In 2019, Boehringer Ingelheim achieved net sales of around $21.3 billion (19 billion). Our significant investment of over $3.9 billion (3.5 billion) in R&D drives innovation, enabling the next generation of medicines that save lives and improve quality of life.

We realize more scientific opportunities by embracing the power of partnership and diversity of experts across the life-science community. By working together, we accelerate the delivery of the next medical breakthrough that will transform the lives of patients now, and in generations to come.

Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., based in Ridgefield, CT, is the largest U.S. subsidiary of Boehringer Ingelheim Corporation and is part of the Boehringer Ingelheim group of companies. In addition, there are Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health in Duluth, GA and Boehringer Ingelheim Fremont, Inc. in Fremont, CA.

Boehringer Ingelheim is committed to improving lives and strengthening our communities. Please visit www.boehringer-ingelheim.us/csr to learn more about Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives.

For more information, please visit www.boehringer-ingelheim.us, or follow us on Twitter @BoehringerUS.

SOURCE Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals

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Studies have shown that leadership is required at all levels of establishment governance to ensure the achievement of corporate goals (Yon, Kim, Ko, & Park, 2016). It has been established that through leaders, major decisions of organizations are carried out and that, through leadership, managers affect employees behaviour in an organisation. Thus, according to Park (2016), the outcome of effective leadership is motivated, employees.

Abbas et al. (2010) have previously observed that for managers to be successful, they must be effective to enable them to influence employees for the accomplishment of the organizational goals. Helping employees to discover and accomplish their personal career goals is very critical for them to contribute to the attainment of the organizational goals as well. To say a leader is effective according to scholars simply means that such a leader has the ability to motivate subordinates towards the accomplishment of the organizational goals or a collective mission (Mensah, 2013; Yon et al., 2016).

According to Rawung (2012), leadership has a significant impact to work motivation in the administration of employees on the corporate environment. In a university organisation, Ariyani (2011) also found that leadership has an impact on individuals motivation.

According to Prasastono (2012), leadership plays a significant role in the hospitality industry. In the public and civil service for example, Widyanto and Sutarno (2011) also affirm that there is a relationship between leadership, work motivation and job performance.

Scholars in the educational sector have noted that leadership is very crucial in motivating teachers and that the educational system could collapse if teachers are not motivated to perform their duty effectively (Akafo & Boateng, 2015; Abugre, 2014).

Several studies (e.g.,Canary & McPhee 2011; Robbins & Judge, 2011; Abdalla, 2010) have demonstrated that effective leadership acts through empowering employees to engage them for improved work outcomes. Canary and McPhee (2011) have observed that at the basic level, leaders can have a substantial impact on an individual, group, and organisational outcomes.

Similarly, a study by Leong and Fischer (2010) has indicated that motivation is thought to be a primary mechanism through which leaders exert their influence. Faeth (2010) argues that if leaders want to improve performance, the motivation of their followers (employees) should equally be enhanced.

Lussier (2013) have found that motivated workers are more dedicated to their organisation and as a result, increased productivity. The quality of a managers relationship with an employee is the most powerful element of employee motivation (Anderson & Adams, 2015; Weiner, 2012).

According to them, a relationship creates a professional, positive, and respectful attitude and employees are more likely to adopt a similar approach with their peers and enjoy work. It has been noted that the management and leadership styles adopted by a business and its management will have a determining effect on the motivation level, the morale, and the job satisfaction of the employees (Manzoor, 2012).

Studies (e.g., Kula & Gueler, 2014; Rawung, 2012) have found that leadership could indirectly influence employees perceived competence level under certain circumstances through intellectual stimulation or emphasis on a worthy cause. This suggests that leadership behaviours which involve building trust, inspiring a shared vision, encouraging creativity and emphasizing development are positively related to employee commitment and performance (Huber, et al., 2016).

AUTHOR: DR. DIVINE K. VULLEY

PLACE OF WORK: BOG (BANKING DEPARTMENT)

CONTACT [email protected]
Johnson Sirleaf, former Liberian President, says Kwara State is a model for women empowerment, as it demonstrates institutional reforms and political will as key for gender inclusion.

Ms Sirleaf made this remark during the First Kwara State Gender (virtual) Conference organised by the state government on Thursday in Ilorin.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the conference is Institutional Reforms, Political will, the key to Gender Inclusion.

Ms Sirleaf said advocacy for women empowerment should include reforms at various levels.

She described Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq as a regional leader in the promotion of gender inclusion, urging other Nigerian leaders to emulate him.

You have demonstrated that ensuring parity in leadership positions can be done.

You have moved considerably the numbers of women at the leadership level in the civil service and the numbers of female cabinet members are true to be applauded, she said.

According to her, mainstreaming gender inclusion in governance requires institutional and legal reforms as well as deliberate efforts by political leaders to give women a fair chance to contribute their quota to development.

In his remarks at the virtual conference, Governor AbdulRazaq said gender inclusion was key to faster growth that leaves no one behind.

We set out to offer a strong platform to state and non-state actors alike to discuss domestic, bilateral and multilateral strategies to increase womens participation in our societies.

True to that, we are joined at this conference by some of the strongest voices in the clamour for better opportunities for women in Africa.

Kwara State is actively taking the lead in the campaign for gender inclusion because we are convinced that society works better and grows faster when no one is denied equal opportunities to succeed.

We have no regret pursuing this noble cause, he said.

The United Nations Women Representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Comfort Lamptey, called for increased support for various measures that break all the barriers against women.

We urge you to encourage other governors and bring them on board in this quest for gender equality, she said.

Also speaking, ECOWAS Parliament Speaker, Sidie Mohamed-Tunis, said Article 63 of the ECOWAS Treaty called on member states to formulate policies and development of programmes that enhance womens economic, social and cultural conditions.

ECOWAS has adopted several instruments and established institutions to secure social protection for women and increase their participation in governance.

One of such instruments is the supplementary act on equality of rights between women and men for sustainable development in the ECOWAS region, Mr Tunis said.

Wife of the state governor, Olufolake AbdulRazaq, who co-hosted the conference, commended the state government for the event.

Mrs AbdulRazaq recalled steps so far taken in Kwara, including by her office, to promote gender inclusion.

I trust that we will continue the conversation within and among communities to amplify the voice of every girl, listen to the word of every woman and support women in the political process, she said.

The virtual conference was also attended by Deputy Secretary-General of the UN, Amina Mohammed and Minister of Women Affairs, Pauline Tallen among others.

(NAN)

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Amid the nationwide outrage over the gang-rape and murder of a 19-year-old woman from Hathras, another woman was allegedly gang-raped and killed by two people in Uttar Pradesh's Balrampur on Tuesday (September 29).

The incident took place in Gaisari village of Balrampur. The 22-year-old victim was a second-year B.Com student had gone to her college when she was gang-raped. The victim's family said that she used to work in a private firm.

According to the woman's family, she was abducted by rapists on her way back home. The victim's family claimed that she returned home in a rickshaw in an unconscious state and had her legs and spine were broken. The parents got worried after seeing the girl's condition and rushed her to a nearby hospital, but she passed away on way to the hospital.

The family claimed that the woman was also injected with poison before she was raped.

"The family said that the woman did not reach home on time on Tuesday. They tried to contact her but could not get in touch. After some time she came home in a rickshaw with a glucose drip attached to her arm and she was in a bad state. The relatives took her to a hospital but she died on the way," Balrampur Superintendent of Police Dev Ranjan Verma said.

Live TV

The victim's mother said that she was unable to speak when she came returned home from college and said only these words, "I am in a lot of pain, I won't survive."

"She had gone to get her admission done at 10 in the morning. We have the receipts. On her way back 3-4men forcibly put her in their car, injected her and raped her. They [accused] broke her back and her legs and sent her back in a rickshaw. She had no strength left to even walk," the mother said.

Balrampur police has registered a case on the complaint of the victim's brother and arrested two accused on charges of gang-rape and murder. The accused have ben identified as Sahil and Sahid.

Accorsing to police, the woman was raped at a grocery store in the Gaisari village and the grocery store's owner is the alleged mastermind of the crime.

The police, however, rejected claimed that legs or spine of the victim were broken.

"Taking quick action in the case, both accused in the case have been arrested. However, the reports of legs and back being broken have not been confirmed by the post-mortem report," the police said.

Meanwhile, the Balrampur victim was also cremated in a hurry late Tuesday night just like Hathras gang-rape vicitm. Local media reported that the woman passed away at 8.30 pm on Tuesday and was cremated at 10.30 pm.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines)  Despite all of the barriers that keep us apart, stories dont stop happening. In a recent Q&A for her film Alunsina, filmmaker Kiri Dalena narrates how their team failed to finish principal photography on the film, which explores how bereaved communities, especially children, cope with the aftermath of the governments war on drugs. To supplement the footage, they had to use drawings collected from the children in the community and partner with an animator to help tell their story. Its an innovative decision that preserves the narrative but also challenges our perceptions of what documentaries in the Philippine canon look like  a key motivation behind the first documentary-only film fest in the country, Daang Dokyu.

Starting out as a Facebook support group in 2015 for a budding community of documentary filmmakers that felt excluded from what critics call the "Third Golden Age of Cinema," it has evolved into the largest non-competitive documentary festival in the country. We decided to mount it to trace Philippine documentary history, to give a platform to the community to interact with one another, and to develop the Filipino audience and invite them to see how diverse documentaries can be, says Jewel Maranan, one of the festival directors and a documentary filmmaker herself.

Kiri Dalena's documentary "Alunsina" premiered at the Daang Dokyu, the first documentary-only film fest in the country. Photo courtesy of DAANG DOKYU

This year the festival opened purely online during the anniversary of Marcos declaration of martial law. Every week for six weeks, 45 documentaries centering an aspect of the Filipino experience will drop on daangdokyu.ph.

Taking cues from new streaming services that increase accessibility for viewers (The Lockdown Cinema Club, for example, was a source of hidden gems and fantastic work made outside of the studio system), Daang Dokyu has also chosen to provide content via an online streaming platform for a limited period. Viewers register through the site and are given exclusive access to all festival content including Q&As with directors and industry sessions, as well as the "Dok Book," which comprises personal and historical accounts of the landscape of the Philippine documentary in film and television. Having partnered with major news and journalism organizations such as Rappler, GMA Network, and ABS-CBN, as well as the UP Film Institute, Daang Dokyu now doubles as the largest compendium of docus centered around the everyday Filipino, with films going back as early as the 1900s.

With each documentary, Daang Dokyu is slowly opening up a space for discussion about the current challenges in the country, issues that filmmakers (especially documentarians) face, and the responsibilities we owe each other during this time.

In this dark period of Philippine history, stories help us not only understand the realities that we often dont see but also arm us with the knowledge needed for action and revolution.

"Bullet-laced Dreams" by Kristoffer Brugada and Charena Escala will be making its Philippine debut in the film festival this October. The film is about the struggles of Lumad children as they become collateral damage to the ongoing conflicts between the government and the rebels groups. Photo courtesy of DAANG DOKYU

To mount the festival, the first hurdle was financial. More money is pumped into the studio system that makes commercial movies, however documentaries are often supported by grants. Were very lucky. We found support from the Office of Senator and current representative Loren Legarda and the NCCA. says Maranan. We werent festival organizers. Thankfully, we partnered with Probe Media Foundation, who handled administrative and technical aspects that we were unfamiliar with.

Particular to the pandemic: dwindling budgets, the stacking costs of additional safety protocols, and the continuing absence of a working public transport system forced documentarians participating in this years festival to rethink the scale of their projects. For fiction filmmakers, the process is much easier. Scripts and styles can adapt to these demands for smaller initiatives. But non-fiction filmmaking is hit especially hard by the limits of shooting during the pandemic. The intimacy and trust throughout the filming process is disrupted due to the distance required of the subject and the filmmaker. The aftermath of this confusion has left filmmakers and production members depleted of much needed income and valuable stories left untold.

As a result, some documentarists have chosen to create more personal work  which have been extremely cathartic in these times  while Daang Dokyu has also selected for its programming titles that have premiered elsewhere. This is in part due to conflicts with distribution and a decreased submission of newer films (an anxiety expounded upon earlier in the year). But these have also provided us with a chance to revisit important films that we have missed or may not have had access to such as Nick Deocampos Oliver (1983), which follows the tumultuous life of a gay nightclub performer, or Joanna Vasquez Arongs Ang Pagpakalma sa Unos (2020), which weaves personal stories of loss with grander narratives of frustration at the Aquino administrations mishandling post-Typhoon Yolanda.

Many of the documentaries from Daang Dokyu's previous lineup are no longer part of the online festival, such as "The Nightcrawlers" from National Geographic (pictured), and some of the oldest documentaries about the Philippines such as the the 35 mm films from the London archives, and newsreels from the U.S. Library of Congress, and British Film Institute.

Apart from the films themselves, reality checks sessions (which are a series of talkbacks that dissect the themes of the week featuring industry members, researchers, and politicians) provide an avenue for audience members to not only process what they see on-screen, but to engage with an ethical question specific to the making of documentaries in the country: how do we document the disenfranchised and marginalized without furthering stigma? In this process, we take stock of our history as a nation and the battles that lie ahead, to move beyond passive viewing.

In the "Dok Book," filmmaker and film historian Nick Deocampo tells us that Documentaries never promise to show a beautiful world. They ask people to understand why it is not. The festival offers us a chance to see the lives of those that are often left unseen, whether in front of or behind the camera.

***

The Daang Dokyu virtual cinema starts Oct. 2. For the complete lineup of films and more details, go to the Daang Dokyu official website.
Allison Langdon has unleashed on the American presidential election and slammed both candidates.

The Today show host, 41, condemned Donald Trump and Joe Biden after the pair squabbled their way through the first presidential debate on Tuesday.

Langdon clashed with co-host Karl Stefanovic, 46, on Thursday morning and even tipped Trump, the current US president, to win the election.

'I though it was horrendous. I just watched and felt sorry for every single person in America that these are your two options to be president,' she said.

Today show host Allison Langdon (pictured right with Karl Stefanovic) condemned both candidates in the US presidential election on Thursday morning

Trump and Biden repeatedly insulted and shouted over each other as Fox News moderator Chris Wallace struggled to control the 'chaotic' debate.

Langdon slammed the event for being 'more like 90 minutes of schoolboys bickering than a presidential debate'.

Biden, former vice president to Barack Obama, even asked the president 'will you shut up, man?'.

Langdon said she 'expected a little bit more' from Trump during the 'outrageous' debate.

'The man who was on stage yesterday was an absolute disgrace. It's been called the worst debate ever, a dumpster fire, a train wreck. He was rude, he had no plan.

'I found the whole thing just outrageous I though he'd be a little bit better than that, I thought he'd have the decency to at least let the other person speak,' she said.

The Today host also slammed Biden and explained she 'didn't think he did a very good job either'.

'Trump could very well win the election, I don't think Joe Biden won himself any fans last night,' Langdon said.

Donald Trump and Joe Biden participated in the first US presidential debate on Tuesday (pictured) which was slammed as 'chaotic' with the pair repeatedly insulting each other

Stefanovic (left) and Langdon (right) were caught up in an on-air row as they discussed the American election with current US president Donald Trump's campaign advisor

Langdon and Stefanovic also got into an on-air row while discussing the election with Harlan Hill, an advisor for Trump's campaign.

Stefanovic addressed Hill about media coverage of the election and said 'the people who are fronting shows get very upset about Donald Trump'.

Langdon interrupted him and explained 'I'm not defending Joe Biden here'.

'No, I haven't finished yet,' her Stefanovic bit back.

The pair bickered again after ending their call with Trump's campaign advisor.

'Everyone gets fired up about it but it's America that votes... it's not got anything to do with what our opinions are or anything,' Stefanovic said.

Langdon replied 'but it was a sad sight when the leaders of the free world...'

'He's been sad for years,' Stefanovic interrupted.

Langdon bit back and asked 'so therefore it's okay?'

'I'm not saying it's okay, I'm just saying what do you expect,' her Stefanovic explained.

'I think it's fair to expect a little more than what we got,' Langdon replied.

The next US presidential debate will be held in Miami, Florida, on October 15.
OTSEGO COUNTY, MI  Theres some new police officers on the job in Northern Michigan.

The Michigan State Police Gaylord Post announced Tuesday that 31 teddy bears were donated by Ashley Brown of Boyne City to help kids who have experienced trauma. . Ashleys husband, William Brown, is a trooper at the Gaylord post.

The Cuddle Bears are accompanied by a book titled Cuddle Bear which describes a child going through a tough or scary time. The Cuddle Bears will be distributed by troopers to help comfort children who are the victims or witnesses of crimes.

I knew the minute I saw this fundraising opportunity that I wanted to raise money for this program, Ashley Brown said. My husband and fellow troopers can help comfort children in our community during a difficult time and give them a new friend and a special book.

Brown received donations from several family members, co-workers and a local business, Usborne Books and More.

These Cuddle Bears and our Handle with Care program will work very well together, said Corey Hebner, community service trooper at the Gaylord post. The Handle with Care is a program that allows troopers to tell local school administrators one of their students had law enforcement contact and may have a tough day.

If you would like to learn more about this program, contact Hebner at the Michigan State Police Gaylord Post by calling (989) 732-2778.
New Delhi: The Reserve Bank of India has issued several new guidelines that will come into effect from October 1, 2020. Among these many guidelines, one pertains to using debit cards and credit cards.

The new rules are aimed at making digital payments secure and safe for users.

The RBI had directed all banks to not unnecessarily give international facilities to customers' cards, unless the customer himself demands it. The move is aimed to stop increasing fraud transactions using debit and credit cards.

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Let's take a look at what all changes when RBI's new guidelines are effective from October 1.

- As per new guidelines, customers will get the option to register for preferences such as opt-in or opt-out services, spend limits and other services for online transactions, international transactions and contactless transactions.



- The debit and credit card servies will only be enabled for transactions at ATMs (domestic) and Point of Sale terminals.

- Both debit and credit holders will now be allowed to set up transaction limit.



- The card holders will have option to allow or not to allow a particular service on their credit-debit cards such as ATM, POS, E-Commerce or NFC.

- RBI has asked all banks, card issuing companies to disable online payment for all debit, credit cards that have never been used for online or for contactless transactions in India or abroad.

- Card holders will also get the option to enable or disable the NFC feature also.

Here's how to manage debit card-credit card services:



1. First of all, you have to log in to your bank account through mobile or netbanking.

2. Then go in the Cards section and select 'manage cards'

3. You will see two option: domestic and international

4. Choose the option in which you want to make changes

5. If you want to close any particular transaction then turn it off, if you want to start then turn it on

6. If you want to limit the limit of the transaction, you can also do it according to your need.
Illegal gaming operations  including one held in a lavish $9-million, 20,000-square-foot Markham mansion  prospered after the province shut down legal casinos because of COVID-19, police say.

It opened up an opportunity for these more extravagant locations, Supt. Mike Slack of York Regional Police said on Wednesday in front of a newly built stone residence on Decourcy Court near Warden Avenue and Major MacKenzie Drive.

His comments came after police announced they have arrested a husband and wife for allegedly running the multimillion-dollar gambling operation, as well as dozens of alleged gamblers.

Their arrests were part of a police operation called Project End Game, which also involved raids on residences in Toronto and Vaughan.

The gated, high-security Markham mansion had an extensive wine cellar and bar, kennels for German shepherd guard dogs, 32-foot high ceilings, 13 bathrooms, elevator, indoor pool and an eight-car garage, set on a lot of almost 2 acres.

Gamblers needed an invitation to attend and once inside, they could dine on illegal delicacies including shark fins from a chefs kitchen, police said.

There was no social distancing or requirement to wear masks to ward off COVID-19 in the opulent illegal Markham gambling centre, Slack said.

Human sex trafficking is also suspected and is under investigation, Slack said.

Investigators with the York Regional Police Guns, Gangs and Drug Enforcement Unit said they seized 11 guns and more than $1 million in cash when they raided the mansion as part of a probe into illegal gaming and organized crime.

No one was injured in the July 23 raid, in which 92 tactical officers stormed the mansion.

Eleven firearms, including a loaded AR-15 assault rifle and .357 magnum revolver, more than $1 million in cash and $1.5 million in alcohol were seized, police said.

A planned raid a week earlier was called off at the last minute when helicopter surveillance showed there were a half dozen children on the premises, Slack said.

Deputy Chief Brian Bigras said gambling is far from being a victimless crime.

It most often leads to increased violence, Bigras said.

Charged with keeping a common gaming house, unauthorized possession of a firearm, possession of a stolen firearm and selling liquor without a licence is Wei Wei, 52, of York Region, who police said was the owner of the operation.

His wife, Xiang Yue Chen, 48, was charged with keeping a common betting house, possession of proceeds of crime and selling liquor without a licence, as was their daughter, Chen Wei, 25.

Wei Dong, 32, who lived on the premises, was charged with multiple offences, including keeping a gaming house, 11 counts of unsafe storage of a firearm and possession of a stolen firearm.

There were related raids staged by police on July 30 on Woodland Acres in Vaughan, in which three people were arrested and more than $70,000 cash were seized and at 3276 Midland Ave. in Toronto in which gaming equipment and more than $20,000 were seized, police said.

The money moving through these underground casinos leads to huge profits for criminals that fund other ventures such as prostitution and drug trafficking, York Region Police Chief Jim MacSween said in a prepared statement.

This illegal high-stakes gambling also leads to gun violence, armed robberies, kidnappings, extortion and other serious violent offences within our community, MacSween said.
As a child in primary school and as a teenager in the secondary school in the then Bendel state, I was taught with other children to be patriotic to our country, Nigeria. We were also taught to respect our national symbols, particularly the national flag and the national coat of arms. Luckily enough, I was fortunate to have participated in the compulsory morning assembly sessions held in both schools with the national flag hoisted on bamboo poles mounted right in front of the assembly arena. We were also taught to religiously observe some national rituals of which one of them was to sing the national anthem at the assembly and recite the accompanying national pledge with undeniable nationalistic pride. Today, with the proliferation of private schools I doubt if this ritual is still being done as most of them are located on road-sides, and therefore lack enough space to do that.

Again, we were taught how great Nigeria was; given its vast arable land mass, its rich geography and robust economy coupled with its good people. Then Nigeria was nicknamed Giant of Africa. It was truly a giant as one of our former heads of state while in power once boasted that Nigerias problem was not the lack of money but how to spend it. Nigeria then was enviously regarded by other African countries. Little wonder that when the entire Ghanaian population was facing economic hardships no African country came to their minds for refuge except Nigeria. They came, and most of them were gainfully employed particularly in the private sector.

However, at a point after my secondary school education I thought of joining any of the armed forces or any of the para-military forces to enable me have a platform of expressing my patriotism as I was taught by my teachers. But my ambition then was fruitless as I was pessimistic of scaling the hurdles that were literarily placed on the way of selection process. One of the most nagging hurdles was quota system.

Also, at a point in my career as a Garment Sorter in a dry cleaning company, I thought of resigning my appointment to enable me further my education on full time basis. Due to inadequate savings as a result of poor salary, I was cowered considering the fact that I would likely be faced with crushing hardship given the fact that the governments of the then Bendel state and the federal government would not have granted me sustainable bursaries; that is if I were to be considered lucky to be a beneficiary. Then, I had no option than to go for a part-time studies which I relatively concluded but not without pitiable struggles.

Still in the same nexus, I nursed the ambition of becoming a civil servant but to no avail. No thanks to the adoption of the preposterous quota system policy by ministries, departments and agencies at all levels of government

Be that as it may, I was able to realize my potential and follow my dream by seizing the opportunities that were present in the private sector. This goes to show the complementary role which the private sector is playing in our nation. If not for the private sector what would have been the fate of the teeming population of the youths who have various dreams and aspirations? Is it not wise enough that the governments create an enabling environment for the organizations that fall within the private sector across the six geo-political zones?

The foregoing is not all about this writer but epitomizes the journey of life which millions of Nigerians are passing through as a result of bad leadership. People have been taunted with John F. Kennedys motivational quote that says ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country. But why would one not think of what his country can do for him? The bible says in Psalm chapter 11 verse 3 that When the foundations are being destroyed, what can the righteous do? Methinks it would have been more reasonable for the leaders to provide a good foundation for the people before they (the people) can give back to the nation. That is how things are exactly done in America where the hackneyed quote originated from. America, through her well thought-out and established policies, does not abandon her citizens to struggles and later expect the abandoned citizens to give back to her. An average American child knows what he or she would be in the future and the country is statutorily prepared to support such a child. Perhaps, this is the reason why the level of patriotism in America is considered to be higher compared to other countries of the world. An American is ready to die for his country at any given point in time because it is very clear that the country made him.

As it is now, the level of patriotism in our nation is fast waning. One can even say that it is because of this reason that the level of insecurity in the country is getting worse. People are no more patriotic because the governments seemingly do not invest in their lives. No doubt, lack of patriotism is making the youths to be vulnerable and some mischievous politicians are cashing in on it. In my view, creation of opportunities for the citizens by the governments at all levels would be an added impetus to the overall level of patriotism of the people, and this would in turn positively affect the development of the country.

Today, many Nigerians who want to contribute their quotas to the countrys growth by establishing businesses of their own are already frustrated because of the unfriendly business environment being created by the various tiers of government.

Many Nigerians want to be patriotic and nationalistic but as it is today many are not. The reason for this is not far-fetched. Today, I see the patriotic inspirations and aspirations of many Nigerians waning because they are not benefiting in any way from the nation apart from the roads they walk or drive on. In some neighborhoods, residents provide security, boreholes, and electricity services on their own in spite of the fact that they regularly pay their taxes to the government. With this, what level of patriotism is expected from them?

Today, I can see millions of unemployed youths that are roaming the streets of our cities in search of elusive jobs. I can see dejected people living under the bridges, uncompleted buildings and under the trees. Still today, I can see some politicians that parked their cars behind the kerbs of our highways caressing their mobile phones like newly found lovers amid cosmetic gesticulations suggesting that all is well.

This piece was written to sensitize our leaders that they should not relent in providing the necessary dividends of democracy for the people as failure to do that would in the long run diminish the level of their patriotism, and that in turn would affect the growth and development of the nation. Again, our leaders should not see Independence celebration as a time to steal, dine and wine. Rather, it should be a moment of sober reflections such as reflecting on why patriotism has been on the wane. Without any iota of exaggeration, we need patriotic Nigerians in this moment of the countrys trials as Jennifer Ritchie Payettes said that Patriotism creates warmth and helps overcome ethnocentrism and division. Break down barriers and work together towards peace and tolerance.
French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday condemned what he called Turkey's "reckless and dangerous" statements backing Azerbaijan it its bid to take back the breakaway region of Nagorny Karabakh.

But Turkey fired back, accusing Macron of supporting Armenia's "occupation" of the region, where deadly fighting has raged since Sunday.

"I have noted Turkey's political statements which I think are reckless and dangerous," Macron told reporters in Latvia's capital Riga during a visit to the Baltic EU state.

"France remains extremely concerned about the bellicose comments that Turkey made in the last hours, which essentially remove any inhibitions from Azerbaijan in what would be a reconquest of northern Karabakh. That we will not accept," he added.

Historic foe

He also appeared to voice support for Yerevan: "I say to Armenia and to the Armenians, France will play its role."

Turkey views majority-Muslim Azerbaijan as its close ally and Christian Armenia as its historic foe.

It also has a range of disagreements with France in the energy-rich eastern Mediterranean as well as Libya and parts of the Middle East.

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu told the Anadolu state news agency that Ankara was not "categorically anti-France".

But when Macron "has no concerns about Azerbaijan's territories, his show of solidarity with Armenia means he supports the occupation", Cavusoglu said.

Turkish F-16

In Riga, Macron said he would discuss the Karabakh tensions with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday and US President Donald Trump on Thursday before reporting on the situation to EU leaders.

Armenia and Azerbaijan have been locked for decades in a territorial dispute over Karabakh and have blamed each other for sparking clashes that have caused nearly 100 confirmed deaths since the weekend.

Armenia's defence ministry said Tuesday that a Turkish F-16 flying in support of Baku's forces had downed an Armenian SU-25 warplane. Both Turkey and Azerbaijan quickly denied the claim.

Direct Turkish military action against Armenia would mark a major escalation after three days of heavy fighting between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces over Karabakh.

Russia also called on Turkey to stop proclaiming support for Azerbaijan and to work toward a diplomatic solution to the escalation, the deadliest since 2016.
Whether you like ghoulish tales steeped in history, or exciting ghost hunts complete with spirit-sensing gadgetry, ghost tours across the country are waiting to welcome you and your pet with their spooky arms. Here are our picks for the most entertaining pet-friendly ghost tours in the United States. If weve overlooked a great one, let us know!

Old Bisbee Ghost Tours

Once a booming mining town, Bisbee, Arizona is now rich with ghostly lore, attracting two- and four-legged visitors alike. On these tours, you and your furkid can sniff out the spirits of residents past, including Nat the Miner, who gave up the ghost to pay a debt; The Lady in White, who rescued three children from the clutches of death; and a cat whose spirit has lingered in town long after its nine lives expired. If youre looking for a family-friendly, educational experience, the Bisbee Historic Ghost Walk will take you on a spirited stroll through the Main Street district, where youll learn about Bisbees unique history.

Huntsville Ghost Walk

Explore the haunted heart of Huntsville on this eerie, yet fascinating series of tours. See the Fraternity House for Ghosts, visit a haunted courthouse, and listen for the ghosts of children playing on Walker Street on the Old Town Historic Tour. Visit the Backwards House, the haunt of LeRoy Pope, and Antebellum mansions in all their former glory on the Twickenham Historic District Tour. Or, take the Haunted Downtown Tour, and see where the spirits of long-gone Native Americans and Civil War soldiers are thought to dwell. Walking tours run every Friday and Saturday throughout September and October, and dogs are welcome.

Blue Orb Tours

Blue Orb was named one of the worlds top 13 ghost tours, and for good reason. Its pup-friendly trips through Savannahs supernatural side are as fascinating as they are spooky. Brave the undead terrors of the adults-only Zombie Tour, or visit Savannahs most iconic haunted sites on the family-friendly Savannah Shadows Tour.

Its important to note that dogs are prohibited on Blue Orbs motorized Bonaventure Cemetery Tours.

Saint Simons Original Ghost Walk Tour

This one-mile tour welcomes family and furkids alike on a lantern-lit journey to the waterfront and old town. Youll hear spooky stories of the spirits that linger on St. Simons Island, as youre guided along the water and through the moonlit streets.

Its important to note that dogs are not allowed on the Dinner and Ghost Tour.

Haunted Haight Walking Tour

Step back into the Victorian era on this two-hour exploration of San Franciscos famous Haight-Ashbury district. The founder of The San Francisco Ghost Society will take you and your pooch through more than 150 favorite architectural haunts that showcase the beautiful and spirited past.

Louisville Ghost Tours

Rich in history and rife with spooky spirits, Louisville is a great place to have a spine-tingling ghost adventure with your furry sidekick. Louisville Ghost Tours takes you on a 90-minute half-mile stroll through some of the citys most famous haunted hot spots. Visit The Brown Hotel, where the buildings long-dead original owner is still said to reside; the Seelbach Hilton, where the Lady in Blue, who met an untimely end in an elevator shaft, still roams the halls; and the 1920s-era Louisville Palace Theatre, where the ghost of Fred, a kindly man who once saved the life of a construction worker, still wanders.

Providence Ghost Tour

The Renaissance Citys storied past comes to life on this ghostly tour. Guides in period garb take visitors through some of the towns most iconic historical sites, expertly weaving folklore, history, and even a bit of poetry for an experience that educates, fascinates, and tingles the spine. Providence Ghost Tour is dog-friendly through and through; the tours proprietors have donated profits to Hurricane Harvey relief efforts, a portion of which went to Big Fluffy Dog Rescue, which took in four-legged evacuees during the hurricane crisis.

Nashville Ghost Tours

Music and ghostly mayhem make up this one-of-a-kind tour of downtown Nashville! Lantern-bearing guides take visitors on a search for spirits through iconic Nashville historic sites, including Ryman Auditorium, Printers Alley, and the Tennessee State Capitol.

A Ghostly Encounter

The oldest established city in the nation, Saint Augustines long and sordid past makes it a perfect place to find lingering spirits with tales to tell. A Ghostly Encounter takes two- and four-legged visitors on a trek through centuries of history and lore, as well as some the citys most active ghost sites, including two spooky cemeteries.

Red Cloak Haunted History Tours

Follow the Lady in the Red Cloak and her lantern through the mists of time. Experience the food, folklore, and ghostly legends of some of Maines most beautiful and historic sites on a 90-minute tour of Bar Harbor, Wiscasset, Boothbay Harbor, Camden, Bath, Damariscotta, Rockland or Hallowell. Tours run from May through the end of October, and dogs are welcome.

Old Charleston Ghost Tours

A bastion of both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War, Charleston is rife with charm, history . . . and ghostly lore. At nightfall, you and your pooch can take a 90-minute spooky stroll through some of the towns most iconic sites in search of wayward spirits - including Poogan, a ghost dog who still roams Charlestons streets.

Spooks and Legends Haunted Tour

Of course Williamsburg has one of the countrys most epic ghost tours. After all, some of the famed towns original inhabitants never left. The Spooks and Legends Haunted Tour takes people and their pooches on an apparition-seeking adventure, where their guide, dressed in Colonial attire, regales them with true stories of paranormal experiences that have happened in and around Williamsburg.

Looking for something extra-spooky? Sign up for the Dead of Night Ghost Tour, in which a long-dead spirit acts as your guide. Looking for something a little less spine-tingling? Embark on the Witches & Pirates Tour, or get a different kind of historical thrill on the Colonial Conspiracy Tour.

Sisters Grimm Ghost Tours

The spirits defending the Alamo are alive and well, and waiting to meet you and your pup. The Sisters Grimm Ghost Tours take human and furry visitors to San Antonios three oldest sections, in search of ghostly encounters. The tours are as pet friendly as it gets! Obi, The Sisters Grimms Border Collie, was once a part of every tour, but has since retired from ghost hunting, leaving your pup to take up the charge.

About TripsWithPets

TripsWithPets has been helping pet parents find pet friendly accommodations since 2003. TripsWithPets provides online reservations at over 30,000 pet friendly hotels & accommodations across the U.S. and Canada. You'll find thousands of pet-friendly destinations like Richmond, VA, Salt Lake City, UT and Birmingham, AL. When planning a trip, pet parents go to TripsWithPets.com for all they need to book the perfect hotel for their pet -- including detailed, up-to-date information on hotel pet policies and pet amenities.
Thousands of high paying jobs will become available in Australia despite the country being in the middle of its first recession in almost 30 years.

Australian mining company BHP announced on Tuesday it will create almost 4,000 jobs to help rebuild the nation's economy.

BHP CEO Mike Henry said the $800million employment package would create 3,500 apprenticeships and training programs across Australia.

Over the next five years 2,500 apprenticeships will be available in Mackay and Perth, through the BHP FutureFit Academy, with a running cost of $300 million.

The training will be for heavy diesel fitters and mechanical fitters along with the offer of a one-year Certificate II in maintenance.

The programs will run in conjunction with CQ University and North Metropolitan TAFE, with 450 people already enrolled as of September 30.

Meanwhile 1,000 apprenticeships and short training courses will be made available in various regional areas, in partnership with the Australian Government.

Australian mining giant BHP has announced an $800 million jobs package which will create 3,500 jobs and training programs designed to help rebuild the nation's economy (BHP student Josephine Breede pictured in Olympic Dam mine, South Australia)

BHP committed $30million to the regional program with an eye towards training for future job demand.

Apprentices and trainees could find themselves working at any of the more than 20 BHP sites across the country.

A further $450million will be invested in contracts with Mining Equipment, Technology and Services (METS) companies in Australia.

The almost half a billion dollars will be used to source local products and services, as well as investing in technology pilot programs and emerging businesses.

Mr Henry said BHP recognised the important role the mining industry played as Australia's biggest export earner, employing hundreds of thousands of people.

Over the next five years the initiative will see 2,500 apprenticeships created through the BHP FutureFit Academy and a further 1,000 apprenticeships and short training courses in regional Australia (BHP Shovel operator Sarah Engel pictured at Caval Ridge coal mine)

In the 2020 financial year the company contributed almost $33.4 billion to the economy through jobs, suppliers, taxes, royalties and community investments.

'The mining and METS sector is a critical pillar of our economy, and it has never been more important than now,' he said.

'Providing apprenticeships, skills and training opportunities for Australians of all ages and all walks of life, particularly in our regional communities, is a commitment we can make to help Australia bounce back.'

The mining giant, who already employ 45,000 Australians, will continue to post available apprenticeship spots on their website's careers portal.

The latest Labour Force report from the Bureau of Statistics showed the unemployment rate in Australia had fallen to 6.8 per cent during the pandemic.
Anushree Madhavan By

Express News Service

CHENNAI: Hello, I have just been assigned a case. Can I call back when I break for lunch? asks M Veeralakshmi hurriedly. Feeling guilty about interrupting an ambulance pilots busy schedule, I hang up and wait for her to call back.

Hours later, I answer her call only to know that Today was hectic, I couldnt catch a break. Lets talk tomorrow. This is but a usual day for Veeralakshmi  Indias first female ambulance pilot. Born and raised in Theni, Veeralakshmi came to Chennai along with her husband almost a decade ago. My husband was already working as a driver here. I used to go with him sometimes, and by observing him, I learned all about the profession and even the mechanics of it, says the 30-year-old.

Photos: Ashwin Prasath

Driving her dreams

It was only four years ago when Veeralakshmi approached ANEW, a womens welfare association in Anna Nagar, for work. They were providing vocational training for women and helping them get jobs. I enrolled myself into their driving course. Since I had the experience of watching my husband drive, I was confident that I could do this, she says.

Soon, at the Professional Driver Training Academy in Red Hills, she was wowing the driving instructors with her driving skills. My trainers, Ramesh Kumar and Muthu Kumar, have been my guiding force. They noticed that I was good behind the wheel, and suggested that I lease a vehicle and work as a private driver, she shares. In her three years of snaking in and out of the nooks and crannies of the city, Veeralakshmi gained the trust of her customers.

Her commitment to picking them up and dropping them, despite rain or sunshine, fetched her a whole lot of goodwill and loyalty. I have had to traverse some difficult paths, some dingy areas, but I always made sure that the customers were dropped off right outside their gates. Their safety was also important. They thought I was brave for doing so because even some male drivers used to ask them to alight at some dark, unsafe roads, and walk home  she shares.

In response to her care and concern , Veeralakshmi received love and encouragement from her passengers, who asked her to enhance her skills. It was following such advice from a good Samaritan that she applied for a government job. But to get a government job, I was told that I needed to have a certificate. So I did a Diploma in Automobile Technology from Annamalai University in Chidambaram in 2018-19, she shares.

Making a mark

Life continued as usual, until the lockdown happened when she looked for timely and meaningful opportunities to use her professional skills to help the corona warriors. If not now, then when, she contemplated. As if listening to her hearts desire, the universe rewarded her with a possibility when GVKs 108 Ambulance announced recruitment for ambulance pilots in June.

Friends and family reminded her that this is a male-dominated profession, but Veeralakshmis confidence remained steady. For the officials, it was a first  to consider a womans application. I told them about my experience as a driver and asked them to let me take a test. I was asked to meet them with all the necessary documents for an on-road test.

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I was warned that I would be monitored closely. During the test, they seemed happy with my driving, and that gave me confidence, she narrates. Such has been her passion for learning that even though the ambulance pilot training was for a month, Veeralakshmi completed it within a few days. When I was driving cabs, I used to attend any workshop that was related to my job. I did courses on first aid, fire safety, etc., which were also taught during the ambulance pilot training, she shares.

The plan was to join the fleet in June itself, but the call didnt come through. Little did she know that her hard work and dedication would be well worth the wait. I learned from GVK that I was the first female ambulance driver in India, and that at a launch function for ambulances, CM Edapaddi K Palaniswami would announce about my recruitment.

Till then I had doubts, but to my surprise, the officials told me that it was a matter of pride for them to have a female driver in their fleet, she opens up. After a wait for almost two months, at the launch event on August 31, the chief minister announced her induction  a cherished moment for Veeralakshmi. The ministers present at the event encouraged me; the deputy chief minister was glad that a woman would be joining the fleet. I was also asked to drive the ambulance in their presence, during the flagoff, she says, with a hint of shy-pride.

Seeking satisfaction

It was also important for Veeralakshmi to ensure that her family, especially her children Dharinishree and Harish Karthikeyan, stayed aware of the risks involved in her job during this pandemic. Every job, she explained to her family members, comes with risks but if you love something, then these risks cannot stop you. A resident of Thiruverkadu, Veeralakshmi has been assigned the Government Hospital in Avadi. Her work starts at 8 am and ends at 8 pm. Initially, I had three-four cases a day.

Some days, I get around seven cases. We are assigned cases based on where we are located. We have been provided with the necessary kits. If it is a noncorona case, I wear only gloves and mask. But, when it is a corona case, I wear the entire kit, she shares. At the end of each day, upon returning home, Veeralakshmi follows all precautions necessary  taking a bath and washing all her clothes. Drinking hot water, twice a day, she believes, helps her stay healthy.

While she had to settle for lesser pay, compared to her previous job as a cab driver, it is the sense of fulfilment that matters, she says. When the family of a patient, who I have never met before, holds my hands and thanks me for coming on time and saving their loved ones lives, or the elders bless me, I feel good that I have impacted their lives in some way. This is a different feeling, she notes.

Future goals

Putting to rest the stereotypes of misogynistic attitude in this profession, Veeralakshmis male counterparts have been affable to the extent of constantly advising her to be safe. While this has been welcoming, Veeralakshmis main concern is the lack of restrooms for women. All drivers, especially women, face this issue. We have to stop at a private hotel or a petrol bunk to relieve ourselves. Since I am attached to a hospital, I use the facilities there.

This is one of the reasons that we dont see many women in this field, she rues. On days when she is not driving the ambulance, Veeralakshmi is busy being an instructor at the NSCC Silambam Academy. I have been a statelevel silambam player and have won two gold medals, she shares. A diligent student of a teacher called life, Veeralakshmi pursued a Bachelors degree in Commerce after her marriage. Now I want to do an MBA and something related to my field.

I am interested in Psychology, says the multi-tasker, for whom the sky seems to be the limit. She believes that women can do anything if they have clarity about their goals. If you believe in something, give it a shot. You can do anything you set your mind toall you need is practice and guidance, says Veeralakshmi, standing true to her name  a brave warrior, who we need in these uncertain times, reminding us to follow our dreams.
Find all of the most important pandemic education news on Educating N.J., a special resource guide created for parents, students and educators.

While the majority of New Jerseys public schools are combining at-home learning and small in-person classes, the nearly 6,000 students in Lakewood public schools are back in class full-time, five days a week.

The Ocean County district, made up largely of low-income and minority students, is committed to offering its kids a full day at school despite the pandemic, local officials have said.

But, with COVID-19 cases rising at an alarming rate in Lakewood, should the public schools start teaching remotely?

All considerations are on the table as it relates to Lakewood, Ocean County, Gov. Phil Murphy said Wednesday when asked whether the state would require the public schools to switch to an all-remote or hybrid model for its students.

But, district officials see no reason to ask students to start learning at home, Michael Inzelbuch, the Lakewood school board attorney, said Thursday.

The rise in COVID-19 infection rates in Lakewood can not be traced to the public schools, which have had minimal negative results, Inzelbuch said in an email.

Most importantly, education is occurring, something that our population needs and deserves and has limited means to obtain if not in school, he wrote.

When asked if the school district is considering going remote, Inzelbuch said ultimately there are 2 Gs who govern these matters  God and the governor.

Teachers in Lakewood have called for the district to switch to a hybrid learning plan after complaints about overcrowded classrooms and lax efforts to enforce social distancing measures.

A hybrid plan could require half of students to stay home and learn remotely each day, reducing the number of students in classrooms, said Dawn Hiltner, a spokeswoman for the Lakewood Education Association, the local teachers' union.

If you have half the number of people in the building, it makes it a lot easier to keep people safe, Hiltner said. You would have opportunities for more efficient social distancing, for better cleanup. Just to limit the number of people in a room, thats what we feel is the safest thing to do at this point.

Gov. Phil Murphy and other state officials plan to visit Ocean County Friday to discuss the increase in positive tests the area.

Ocean County accounted for about a quarter of the new coronavirus cases in New Jersey over the last week, state officials said Wednesday. The county averaged 157 positive tests a day over the previous seven days with most of the new cases coming from Lakewood.

On Saturday, New Jersey reported a statewide 3% positivity rate, which measures the percentage of residents who test positive for COVID-19 on one day. Lakewoods rate on the same day was 27%  nine times higher.

The township, which has a rapidly expanding Orthodox Jewish community, is the fastest-growing municipality in New Jersey. Officials have not said if any one factor has lead to the spike in cases in Lakewood, though some officials have pointed to gatherings for the recent Jewish holidays and inconsistent messages about social distancing and masks as possible contributors.

Were all trying to together figure out the Ocean County spike. And thats part of the reason why were going to be there on Friday and part of the reason Ive been burning up the texting and phones, Murphy said.

Lakewood has one of the most unusual school districts in New Jersey. Its 6,000 public school students are about 86% Hispanic and mostly low-income, according to state statistics. Another 30,000 students, mostly from the Orthodox community, attend dozens of Jewish private schools in the township.

Its unclear how many positive COVID-19 cases have been reported in the private schools.

At least two Lakewood private schools for girls, Bnos Devorah and Bnos Esther Malkas, have temporarily closed due to coronavirus concerns, according to the Lakewood Scoop, a local news site. But they have not publicly announced if they have had cases.

The state ordered all public and private schools closed last spring under the governors executive order. State officials did not immediately respond to a question about whether the state has the power to order individual private schools in Lakewood to go all-remote if the infection rate rises.

Lakewood public school officials did not respond to questions about how many positive COVID-19 cases there have been in their eight schools since the start of classes.

At least one first-grader tested positive earlier this month at the Spruce Street School, district officials said. At least two Lakewood School District employees, including one who had no contact with students, also tested positive earlier in the month though the cases appeared to be unrelated.

Ocean County had one of the 11 confirmed COVID-19 outbreaks at New Jersey schools, according to a new dashboard unveiled by state officials Wednesday. The Ocean County outbreak involved three positive cases in which students or teachers transmitted the virus at school or during extracurricular activities, according to a local health department investigation.

However, state officials have not named the school, the date of the outbreak or said where in Ocean County it is located.

Staff writer Jenny Whidden contributed to this report.

Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription.

Kelly Heyboer may be reached at kheyboer@njadvancemedia.com.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Amid a year that has seen a significant rise of shootings on Staten Island compared to 2019, Northwell Health has received a $1.4 million grant that will pilot a study on gun violence prevention in three of its hospitals  including Staten Island University Hospital in Ocean Breeze.

Northwell Health received the grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to establish an evidence-based screening and intervention protocol as part of the health systems We Ask Everyone. Firearm Safety is a Health Issue research study.
Chairman of the Dong Nai Peoples Committee Cao Tien Dung speaks about the 1,800ha of land that will be made available for the construction of Long Thanh Airport in October

Workers cut down rubber trees in a plantation located within an area marked for the construction of Long Thanh International Airport in Dong Nai.

What are Dong Nai authorities doing to ensure land clearance for the first phase of construction for Long Thanh Airport is completed by October?

Right now we are in the process of settling land clearance and compensation for households having to relocate for Long Thanh Airport. Were confident that more than 1,800ha of clean land will be ready for the first phase of the airport's construction by late October as we promised to the Government.

The most challenging task for us right now is finding places to live for the people who have had their land claimed for the construction of the airport because the number is quite a lot. Dong Nai is making advance payments and urging the households to find places to temporarily move to, to make room for the project. In the days ahead, we planned to hold a random number picking for these households to decide the locations for their new homes in the Loc An-Binh Son resettlement area. According to our plan, by late October, 1,800ha of clean land for the construction of the Long Thanh Airport will be available for the project.

Of the 1,800ha that Dong Nai authorities will have to hand over for the airport authority in October, more than 630ha belong to local households. Long Thanh District Peoples Committee has already paid more than VN900 billion ($38 million) in compensation to 456 households who have had their land revoked for the construction of the airport.

There is a big rubber plantation on that land. How will that be dealt with?

A plan for clearing the rubber plantation has already been decided. However, the current pandemic has delayed the progress of cutting down of the trees, due to lower number of exports resulting in less demands. Still, we believe that by late October well have cleared the land for the Long Thanh Airport project, because after all, the cutting down of the trees is easier than calculating compensation lands for hundreds of households.

How about the settlement of the remaining 3,000ha for the airport?

According to the plan, compensation for the remaining 3,000ha will be completed by late November. In other words, within December this year, the entire 5,000ha will be available for the construction of the airport.

In the meantime, weve focused our investment on the construction of the Loc An-Binh Son resettlement area for people who have been relocated to make way for the airport.

Does this mean that Dong Nai authorities will complete their compensation plans for families affected by the construction of Long Thanh Airport by late 2020?

Yes! Compensation will be completed by late 2020. We hope that compensation matters will be completed within this year and next year, we will need to worry about clearing the ground to make way for construction.

Were well aware that if compensation is delayed to next year, we will need to deal with changes to land prices set in 2021 as well, which will likely result in disputes and complaints given there are two compensation schemes applied for different households within a single project.  VNS

Delay in land disbursement stymies progress of Long Thanh int'l airport A delay in land acquisition disbursement for the proposed Long Thanh international airport in the southern province of Dong Nai could affect its progress, experts have warned.
United Kingdom is set to become the single largest national donor to the World Health Organisation (WHO) after the United States abandoned the UN health agency over the COVID-19 pandemic dispute.

According to the statement released by Downing Street, the UK Prime minister announced a 30 percent increase in Britains funding to WHO at his address at the UN General Assembly on September 26. He also urged the international community to rectify the ugly rifts that are hampering the global battle against the health crisis.

Read - UK PM To Call On Nations To 'build Back Greener' At UN Climate Action Roundtable

Johnson's announcement at the 75th UNGA meeting comes after US President Donald Trump's earlier denouncement of the WHO as a Chinese Organisation for it'shandling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The British PM announced $433 million (340 million) in funding over the next four years that amounts to a 30 percent increase. Further supporting the WHO in its work, Johnson suggested that the body receives greater powers to demand reports on how other nations are handling the COVID-19 pandemic.

Boris Johnson, in his pre-recorded video message to the UNGA, said And after nine months of fighting COVID-19, the very notion of the international community looks, frankly, pretty tattered. And we know that we simply cant continue in this way. Unless we get our act together.

Read - Indian Students Appeal To UK PM In Historic English Test Visa Row

UK to contribute 571 mn to COVAX

Moreover, Johnson also declared an increase in the UK's funding of COVAX research which is co-led by Gavi, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) and the WHO. Noting that no-one is safe until everyone is safe, UK PM announced the contribution up to $728 million (571 million) to the initiative designed to distribute a COVID-19 vaccine across the world. Out of the total sum, $637 million (500 million) has been set aside for the developing countries to protect themselves against the COVID-19 pandemic.

UK PM said, The UK is already the biggest donor to Gavi, the global vaccine alliance. In June we helped to raise almost $9 billion to immunise another 300 million children against killer diseases, and Gavi also stands ready to help distribute a COVID-19 vaccine.

Read - UK PM Quizzed On Testing, Support For The Economy

Read - UK PM: It's Time To Summon Discipline And Resolve

Image Credits: AP
I think everyone should take it seriously, Nickson said. For an African American woman who my grandparents did not always have the right to vote, my grandfather  talked about that and how important it is to vote, and you should never take that lightly. Even if your candidate doesnt win, you did your part.
WASHINGTON - The nations largest doctors group on Thursday asked the Supreme Court to strike down a Trump administration rule thats had a far-reaching impact on family planning by prohibiting taxpayer-funded clinics from referring women for abortions.

The American Medical Association acted after two U.S. appeals courts issued conflicting rulings on the legality of the Trump administration restrictions, which apply to clinics that mainly serve low-income women.

We do think this conflict needs to be resolved and we need to figure out how to deliver services under a program that has had bipartisan support for decades, said AMA President Dr. Susan Bailey.

The AMAs move will raise the profile of a reproductive rights issue overshadowed by bigger election-year battles. The recent death of liberal Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg has prompted speculation that a more conservative court could overturn the Roe v. Wade decision that legalized abortion, as well as the Obama health law that expanded coverage and made birth control free for most women.

But the changes to Title X, as the federal family planning program is known, are already in effect  and getting much less attention.

Last year the Trump administration finalized a rule that prohibits clinics from referring pregnant women for abortions and imposes other restrictions, including a requirement for strict financial and physical separation of family planning facilities from ones that provide abortions.

As a result, more than 900 out of nearly 4,000 clinics receiving federal funds left the program, including Planned Parenthood and its affiliates. Advocates say the exodus has disrupted care for women who receive birth control and routine medical attention from the clinics. The program usually serves some 4 million clients, and the AMA says that was down about 20% last year.

The Trump administrations regulation warps and decimates Title X, the AMA said in its petition asking the Supreme Court to take the case.

An appeals court based in San Francisco upheld the Trump administrations regulations, but a second court based in Richmond, Virginia, ruled in a Maryland case that the restrictions were invalid. The AMA says that means the administrations abortion referral rule is in effect everywhere but Maryland.

Casting the case as an issue of free speech and medical ethics, the AMA said the administrations rule attempts to control communication between clinicians and patients by prohibiting abortion referrals, while at the same time compelling clinics to refer pregnant women for prenatal care, even if a woman has decided that she wants to have an abortion.

The patient-physician relationship is the cornerstone of good medical care, and patients must be able to believe and completely trust that their physicians are giving them all of their options, and that communication is not being blocked in any way, said Bailey. It is frankly against our code of medical ethics.

In response, the Health and Human Services department rejected the accusation that the regulation amounts to a gag rule and noted that the federal appeals court in politically liberal San Francisco upheld it. Nonetheless, it was a conservative mix of appellate judges who decided the case.

HHS also says it is trying to increase the number of patients served and improve quality.

Longstanding laws prohibit the use of federal funds to pay for abortions, but the family planning rule is part of a broader Republican effort to shut down various streams of taxpayer money still available to Planned Parenthood, the nations largest provider of abortions. Thats been a critical priority for religious and social conservatives in President Donald Trumps political base.

Abortion remains a legal medical procedure, but the number and rate of abortions is at its lowest point in nearly 50 years. Improved access to birth control is seen as one of the reasons.

Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden promises to rescind the Trump administrations family planning rule and also supports allowing federal programs to pay for abortions. But the AMA says regardless of who wins the election, it believes the Supreme Court should address the issue and overturn the Trump administration rule.

Title X has contributed to a 30-year low in unintended pregnancies, said Bailey. We cant afford to walk away from that progress.

Joining the AMAs petition are the ACLU, Planned Parenthood, the National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association, and Essential Access Health, which administers the Title X family planning program in California.

___

Associated Press Supreme Court reporter Mark Sherman contributed.
BiZZdesign, a leading enterprise transformation software vendor, leader in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Enterprise Architecture, today announced that its customer, CSL Behring, has won the prestigious 2020 Forrester and InfoWorld EA Awards.

CSL Behring is part of CSL Limited, the worlds third-largest biotech company, and has over 25,000 employees with operations in more than 35 countries and annual revenues close to $9 billion. Over the past two years, the company has embarked on its digital transformation journey. A core component of this journey has been the reinvented Enterprise Architecture team, whose efforts are supported by BiZZdesigns HoriZZon platform.

The rejuvenated EA function, under the leadership of Mohor (Movi) Banerjee, has given structure as well as a vision for enabling the business in the digital age, and this year their contribution has received a public acknowledgment. As a trusted partner and supporter of CSL Behring in their digital transformation endeavors, BiZZdesign is thrilled to learn of our clients most recent EA-related success.

The EA team at CSL Behring have done a fantastic job in executing a business-led EA strategy, said Nick Reed, BiZZdesigns Chief Strategy Officer. They are a great example of what business value-oriented architecture can achieve for an organization. From their strategic governance, which has saved the company millions per year as a result of improved technology rationalization, to the enhanced agility in digitalization, and the leadership role they played as the Covid-19 pandemic was unfolding, CSLBs enterprise architects have made a huge positive impact and I sincerely congratulate them in that achievement and the public recognition of it.

Key achievements of CSL Behrings digital transformation that contributed to the award win:

This award recognizes first and foremost the impressive business impact that EA has had on the enterprise. In the case of CSL Behring, their Forrester/InfoWorld Enterprise Architecture Awards win is closely connected to the four pillars they built at the core of the companys digital transformation efforts:

A transformed EA function that emphasized the interaction with internal customer areas.

Adoption of modern technology platforms and application architecture.

An enhanced governance framework.

Talent up-skilling of solution architects and deployment teams.

This high level of EA strategic leadership and the evident business impact made the EA team at CSL Behring a winner at this years awards. Gene Leganza, Vice President and Research Director at Forrester Research, said: The assets created by the EA team have accelerated decision-making for the business by at least 2x while identifying opportunities for technology consolidation.

BiZZdesign would like to officially congratulate the entire CSL Behring organization for their win at the 2020 Forrester and InfoWorld EA Awards. And we also want to send a special acknowledgment to the Enterprise Architecture group for their sustained work and commitment. We wish them all the best as they continue to guide their organization on its digital transformation journey, and we look forward to many years of success together.

About BiZZdesign

BiZZdesign is a leading enterprise transformation software vendor based in the Netherlands. Founded in 2000 as the commercial spin-off of an R&D institute, today the company enjoys a global presence and is recognized by industry analysts as a market leader. BiZZdesign HoriZZon is deployed in blue chip companies and government organizations across all continents, where it plays a key role in enabling meaningful business change.
From the Archive The Power Behind the Robe

Security forces look over Buddhist monks on a march during the Saffron Revolution in Yangon in 2007. / Khin Maung Win

On the 13th anniversary of the Saffron Revolution, we revisit this cover story that first appeared in the October 2007 print issue of The Irrawaddy magazine, in which the founding editor explained why Myanmars generals feared the influence of the Sangha.

The Lord Buddha shunned worldly affairs, but in his teachings he stressed the need for good governance and good rulers in the practice of politics.

The Buddha said: When the ruler of a country is just and good, the ministers become just and good; when the ministers are just and good, the higher officials become just and good; when the higher officials are just and good, the rank and file become just and good; when the rank and file become just and good, the people become just and good.

If these admonitions are followed by the large community of monksthe Sanghain predominantly Buddhist Burma, the lingering love lost relationship between the countrys military rulers and its monks should be no surprise.

Over the last two decades, Burmas Sangha community, officially estimated to number around 400,000, has had an uneasy relationship with the ruling generals, who have imprisoned several prominent, politically active monks or pongyis. It is estimated that since the present military regime came to power in 1988, about 300 monks have been defrocked and sentenced to long terms of imprisonment.

Monks, considered sons of Buddha, are the biggest institution in Burma after the armed forces, which number more than 400,000 soldiers and police.

In their close contacts with the common people and during their morning alms rounds of local households, the monks witness firsthand the suffering and poverty of ordinary Burmese citizens. They have a very clear picture of the deteriorating situation in Burma.

More importantly, they probably have a better network, connections and influence than politically active students, who are constantly watched, imprisoned or forced into exile.

Who could imagine that these monks, living quietly in monasteries and studying Dhamma, would ever plan to rebel against the repressive regime? Yet history has shown that monks have long played a pivotal role in politics and that they would indeed dare such a bold and dangerous undertaking.

The role of political pongyis is controversial and potentially threatening to the ruling elite, although there has been a continuing debate on whether monks really should involve themselves in politics.

The Early Rebellion

Monks were involved in early outbreaks of resistance against British colonization, joining lay people in taking up arms against the British after seeing King Thibaw sent into exile.

Monks have their resistance martyrsU Ottama, for instance, who led 3,000 rebels in the Salin area a year after the invasion of Mandalay. The rebel monk, also known as Bo Ottama, was captured and hanged by the British in 1889.

Interestingly, historians noted that monks who took up arms voluntarily defrocked themselves first, following the precept forbidding monks to take lives.

Another martyr, Saya San, who was an ex-monk, led a peasant uprising in Tharrawaddy opposing the tax system imposed by the British. Burmas colonial masters sent 10,000 troops to quell the rebellion, capturing Saya San and sending him, too, to the gallows.

One of the top Burmese lawyers who defended Saya San at his trial was Dr Ba Maw, who later became head of state in Burmas Japanese-backed government.

Not all monks advocated armed struggle. Two who preached nonviolent resistance, U Wisara and another monk named U Ottama, spent many years in prison for their opposition to colonialism and their names have joined the list of independence heroes.

U Ottama, a globe-trotting, well-respected monk from Arakan State, was a powerful speaker whose calls for independence were featured in the national newspaper Thuriya. He once famously told the British Governor Sir Reginald Craddock to go home to Britain, in a speech that landed him in prison.

Like U Ottama, U Wisara was imprisoned several times for his public speeches and died in jail in 1929 after 166 days of a hunger strike. His prison sentences included terms of hard labor, and he was also defrocked.

Both monks became an inspiration to activists and students involved in the independence movement.

Scholar Michael Mendelson wrote in his Sangha and State in Burma, that all politically active monks tended to be labeled by the colonial authorities as political agitators in the yellow robes. Interestingly, a similar term is used by Burmas current leaders to describe protesting monks.

Historians wrote that the British authorities were surprised to learn the influential role of the Sangha community, and soon after the invasion of 1885 they abolished the position of Supreme Patriarch, or Thathana-baing.

In former times, Burmese kings appointed Thathana-baing to govern the Sangha community and made them responsible for doctrinal instruction and discipline of all monks. But the position wasnt accepted by the entire Sangha. The progressive Shwegin sect was one group that rejected it. Sectarianism created controversy and bitter rivalry among monks.

During the Kon-Baung period in the 18th century, conflicts arose within the Sangha over how the monastic robes were supposed to be worn, and two conflicting sects arosethe so-called Ton Gaing and Yon Gaing.

The Burmese scholar Tin Maung Maung Than records that the Toun-goo and early Kon-Baung dynasties were drawn into the rivalry by their royal patronage of one party or the other. In 1782, King Bodawphaya intervened in the controversy by siding with Ton Gaing.

One experienced colonial political officer, Col Edward Sladen, conversant with the power of the Sangha, advised British authorities to maintain the Thathana-baingsystem in order to head off conflicts in governing the predominately Buddhist country.

The role of Thathana-baing was undoubtedly a complicated one, involving a direct link between the monarchy and the Sangha. The Thathana-baing wielded influence and could even intervene in state affairs. One respected abbot even persuaded King Mindon to abandon corvee labor for his irrigation projects. Its ironic that the current regime argues that forced labor is a feature of Burmese tradition and a means of making merit.

After independence, however, the influence of Buddhism and the Sangha went into decline, except for a period under the late prime minister U Nu, a devout Buddhist.

U Nu himself was ordained as a monk several times and rarely exploited Buddhism for his own political ends. Under his government, the Sixth Great Buddhist World Council was held in 1954, and he also created the Buddha Sasana Council.

Tin Maung Maung Than noted in his book, Sangha Reforms and Renewal of Sasana in Myanmar: Historical trends and Contemporary Practice: Because of various Gaing and sectarianism U Nu failed to take effective reforms in spite of institutionalization of Buddhism within the state superstructure and notwithstanding the holding of the Sixth Buddhist Synod in 1954.

U Nu also attempted to legalize Buddhism as the state religion in 1961. The attempt was considered to be a misguided policy, and it anyway failed to materialize as U Nu was ousted by Gen Ne Win one year later.

Ne Win regarded monks as a potential opposition and he developed a different strategy to control them. In the mid-1960s, his regime called a Sangha conference to issue monks with identification cards. Young monks and abbots stayed away from the gathering.

It wasnt until 1980 that Ne Win succeeded in containing the monks by establishing a State Sangha Nayaka Committee, after a carefully orchestrated campaign to discredit the Sangha. Part of the campaign was to discredit a famous monk, Thein Phyu Sayadaw, who was accused of romantic involvement with a woman. He was defrocked.

Before the campaign, intelligence officers and informants of the government infiltrated the temples as monks and gathered information about monks and abbots.

Some well-known abbots, including Mahasi Sayadaw, an internationally respected monk who was invited by U Nu in 1947 to teach Vipassana meditation, were also targeted in the campaign.

Anthropologist Gustaaf Houtmann wrote in his paper Mental Culture in Burmese Crisis Politics that the regime had distributed leaflets accusing Mahasi of talking with the nat spirits, and it was claimed that the Tipitaka Mingun Sayadaw, Burmas top Buddhist scholar, had been involved in some unsavory incident two years after entering the monkhood. Both monks were victims of their refusal to cooperate with the regime.

A number of scholars and historians noted, however, that some abbots accused and charged by the government were indeed involved in scandals and had romantic relationship with women or nuns.

The regimes campaign sometimes took bizarre forms. Rumors were circulated, for instance, suggesting that one Rangoon monk, U Laba, was a cannibal. Several famous abbots were implicated in scandals and were either defrocked or fled to neighboring Thailand. Ne Win successfully launched a Sangha reformalso known as Cleaning Up the Sangha.

The government managed to get some recognition from elderly Buddhists by forming the Sangha Committee. But Ne Win did not pretend to be a devout Buddhist. He rarely participated in Sangha meetings and held few religious ceremonies during the 26 years of his rule. Unlike current leaders, he was rarely seen with monks.

During the 1988 uprising, however, his government asked the Sangha Committee to help restore order, and senior monks appeared in live television broadcasts appealing to the public for calm.

In August, 1988, days after the massacre in Rangoon, monks expressed sorrow for the loss of life, butto the surprise of manythey also appealed to the regime to govern in accordance with the 10 duties prescribed for rulers of the people. The appeal failed to calm the public mood, but the message did remind many Burmese of the 10 duties of rulersthe monks were telling Ne Win to be a good ruler.

On August 30, the Working Peoples Daily reported: 1,500 members of the Sangha marched in procession through the Rangoon streets and gathered in front of the Rangoon General Hospital emergency ward, where they recited Metta Sutta in memory of rahans (monks), workers and students who fell in the struggle for democracy. Many young monks were among the demonstrators.

For many Burmese, the struggle for democracy is not yet over and the discord between the Sangha and the ruling generals remains strong.

Unlike Ne Win and U Nu, the generals who came to power in 1988 openly and audaciously schemed to buy off the Sangha community. They have also claimed to be protectors of the Sangha, although their motive is to gain political legitimacy.

Aside from holding numerous merit-making ceremonies, offering hsoon and valuable gifts to monks, the military leaders are launching well-publicized pagoda restoration projects throughout Burma. Nevertheless, confrontations between rebellious monks and the authorities continue.

In Mandalay in 1990, troops fired on the crowds, killing several people, including monks. Angered by the militarys brutality, Mandalay monks began a patta ni kozana kan, refusing to accept alms from members of the armed forces and their families.

The same action has now been taken by monks in several provinces after authorities beat protesting monks in Pakokka, central Burma.

Patta ni kozana kan can be called in response to any one of eight offences, including vilifying or making insidious comparisons between monks, inciting dissension among monks or defaming Buddha, the Dhamma or the Sangha.

A patta ni kozana kan campaign can be called off if the offended monks receive what they accept as a proper apology from the individuals or authorities involved. This procedure involves a ceremony held by at least four monks inside the Buddhist ordination hall, at which the boycott would be canceled.

Some monks in Burma may believe that the patta ni kozana kan of 1990 is still in effect, since they havent yet received any proper apologyonly a harsh crackdown. At that time, monks refused to attend religious ceremonies held by military officials and family members.

In one incident, the Mandalay Division commander at the time, Maj-Gen Tun Kyi, who later became trade minister, invited senior monks and abbots to attend a religious ceremony but no one showed up. Military leaders realized the seriousness of the boycott and decided to launch a crackdown.

In Mandalay alone, more than 130 monasteries were raided and monks were defrocked and imprisoned. As many as 300 monks nationwide were defrocked and arrested.

Former political prisoners recalled that monks who shared prison quarters with them continued to practice their faith despite being forced to wear prison uniforms and being officially stripped of their membership of the Sangha.

Several monks, including the highly respected Thu Mingala, a Buddhist literature laureate, and at least eight other respected senior abbots, were arrested. Thu Mingala was sentenced to eight years imprisonment.

Apart from being stripped of their robes, imprisoned monks in Mandalay were forced to wear white prison uniforms and were taunted with nicknames instead of being addressed with their true titles, according to former political prisoners.

One year later, in 1991, the then head of the military junta, Snr-Gen Saw Maung, suffered a nervous breakdown and retired for health reasons. Buddhist Burmese still say this was punishment for his maltreatment of the monks.

The 1990 crackdown divided the Sangha community. The late Mingun Sayadaw, who was secretary of the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee, was ridiculed by young monks for not supporting the boycott campaign. He was at one time called senior general Mingun Sayadaw, and when he visited one temple in Mandalay young monks reportedly saluted him.

Today, while rebellious monks are prepared to go to prison, many senior monks and abbots are allowing themselves to become government tools by accepting gifts and large donations from the generals. By cuddling up to the ruling generals, these elderly abbots can no longer speak for the Sangha community at large, let alone comment on the suffering of the Burmese people. The divisions between abbots and young monks have inevitably widened.

The generals, on the other hand, wont give up easily. In one spectacular bid to win the hearts and minds of the people, they borrowed a Buddha tooth relic from China and toured the country with it and also held a World Buddhist Summit.

In 1999, military leaders renovated Shwedagon Pagoda, after the Htidaw, the sacred umbrella, had been removed amid reports of minor local earthquakes. Local people said the spirits of Shwedagon had been upset with the removal of the Htidaw. Restoration of the pagoda complex did nothing to help the generals image, though.

The generals have also applied divide and rule strategies in dealing with the Sangha community and the opposition.

In 1996, the regime accused the National League for Democracy of infiltrating the Sangha with the aim of committing subversive acts against the authorities. The generals obviously did not want to see opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi developing too close a relationship with the monks.

In an attempt to neutralize the political role of Suu Kyi, the government sent a famous, London-based monk, Dr Rewatta Dhamma, to visit the detained opposition leader in 1995. Claiming to be a peace-broker between Suu Kyi and the generals, the monk shuttled between her and top leaders. But his mission failed and he returned to London. Skeptics believe the generals had merely used U Rewatta in a bid to persuade Suu Kyi to relinquish politics.

Ironically, the regime leaders publicly accused Suu Kyi of being a communist and of sacrilege because she had said in a campaign speech that any human being can become a Buddha in this life.

Soon after her release from her first term of house arrest in 1995, Suu Kyi immediately traveled to Karen State, followed by infuriated intelligence officers. She went there to make an offering to Thamanya Sayadaw.

Traditionally, temples have provided hiding places for activists, and in 1988 monks offered shelter to fugitives from the intelligence authorities.

At one time, the regime even placed restrictions on opposition members, preventing them from ordaining as monks. Like universities and schools, politically active monasteries are under heavy surveillance.

The widely respected abbot Bhaddanta Vinaya, known as Thamanya Sayadaw because he lived on Thamanya Hill, was involved in projects to help villagers in the area, work that was shunned by the generals.

He was revered not only for the mystical powers he was said to possess, but also because of his refusal to kowtow to the regime leaders. He once famously refused to accept the gift of a luxury vehicle from the then powerful intelligence chief Gen Khin Nyunt.

Khin Nyunt could not buy Thamanya.

It may indeed be wrong to assume that Burmas regime leaders are devout Buddhists. The generals and their families seem to place more trust in astrology and numerology than in Buddhist ritual. They treasure white elephants and lucky charms and are constantly seeking advice from astrologers.

Birds of a feather, such as the generals and their chief astrologers, not only flock together but fall together, too. Ne Wins family astrologer, Aung Pwint Khaung, was arrested in 2002 when the former dictator and his family were charged with high treason.

Khin Nyunts chief astrologer, Bodaw Than Hla, was imprisoned after the former Prime Minister and Military Intelligence chief was toppled in 2004.

Many Burmese may find it hard to believe that their military leaders are actually preserving Buddhism. Even when they are building pagodas and erecting Buddha images, the projects are based on astrological predictions and readings.

Who, for instance, advised Ne Win to ride a wooden horse on his aircraft and to ask the pilot to circle his birthplace nine times? Who advised him to issue banknotes in denominations of 45 and 90 kyat?

Who advised Khin Nyunt to dress up in womens clothing, complete with the signature flower that Suu Kyi wears, in order to steal power from the Lady? Who told Than Shwe to move his capital to central Burma?

It certainly wasnt a belief in Buddhist tenets. Nor does Buddhism permit the military to beat, defrock, imprison and kill monks.

The decline of Buddhism and the rise of militarism in Burma are a source of concern for the people of Burma. Thus, it is no surprise to hear social critics and political pongyismaintain that the generals who kneel down before images of Buddha are the real threat to Buddhism and Dhamma.
"While this report reflects upon the events of last year, the magnitude of the events of 2020 cast an even greater spotlight on a company's purposethe core values guiding its impact on the world," said Catherine Hernandez-Blades, Aflac senior vice president and chief environmental, social, governance ( ESG ) and communications officer. "At Aflac, being an ethical, purpose-driven company is in our DNA, as is demonstrated in the way we treat our employees, customers, investors and all stakeholders. This CSR Report highlights our investment in tomorrow for future generations, taking care of our environment and giving back to our communities."

The report includes activities in 2019 in both the U.S. and Japan. Aflac's products protect more than 50 million people worldwide. With a focus on Aflac's culture of ethical engagement with all its stakeholders, the report features key accomplishments in four areas: governance, workplace, philanthropy and environment. Highlights include:

Governance

Aflac's commitment to diversity starts at the top: 64% of Aflac's board members are ethnic minorities or women.

Aflac spent $24.5 million with diverse suppliers in 2019, including a 9.4% increase in minority-owned businesses and 5.2% increase in women-owned businesses.

with diverse suppliers in 2019, including a 9.4% increase in minority-owned businesses and 5.2% increase in women-owned businesses. Aflac Japan met its goal of raising the percentage of women in leadership positions from 17.5% in 2014 to 30% in 2019.

Workplace

Aflac Japan received the Platinum Kurumin accreditation, awarded to top-class companies that support working parents with child care assistance.

Aflac U.S. hired 729 new employees, 58% who were ethnic minorities and 65% who were women  an increase of 20% and 16% , respectively.

respectively. Aflac was honored as one of Ethisphere's World's Most Ethical Companies for the 13th consecutive year, the only insurance company to do so since the award's inception.

Philanthropy

Aflac contributed more than $172 million to help children with cancer in the U.S. and Japan through 2019.

to help children with cancer in the U.S. and through 2019. Aflac distributed more than 6,500 My Special Aflac Ducks, comforting robotic companions for children with cancer, free of charge, in hospitals and childhood cancer organizations across the U.S. and Japan through 2019.

through 2019. Aflac Community Giving contributed nearly $7 million to nonprofit causes, including supporting organizations for minorities, pediatric cancer, health and education in the U.S.

Environment

Aflac Japan's carbon emissions decreased by approximately 48% since 2004.

Aflac U.S. has saved more than $18 million in energy costs in the past eight years. In 2019, Aflac expanded its goal to include buildings and facilities in Japan .

in energy costs in the past eight years. In 2019, Aflac expanded its goal to include buildings and facilities in . Aflac U.S. employees recycled 64,000 pounds of e-waste and electronics and donated 500 pairs of shoes to the Keep Columbus Beautiful Shoe Drive, diverting an additional 750 pounds from landfills in 2019.

The 2019 Aflac Corporate Social Responsibility Report marks the company's fifth year of dedicated work toward adherence to the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards, reported in IR Magazine as the world's most widely used sustainability reporting framework.* This is also the third year the report has included United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Disclosures that reference GRI Standards and SDGs, the latest guidelines, are noted throughout the report.

Visit Aflac.com/CSRReport to view the full 2019 Aflac Corporate Social Responsibility Report, "Investing Today for a Better Tomorrow."

About Aflac Incorporated

Aflac Incorporated (NYSE: AFL) is a Fortune 500 company, helping provide protection to more than 50 million people through its subsidiaries in Japan and the U.S., where it is a leading supplemental insurer by paying cash fast when policyholders get sick or injured. For more than six decades, insurance policies of Aflac Incorporated's subsidiaries have given policyholders the opportunity to focus on recovery, not financial stress. Aflac Life Insurance Japan is the leading provider of medical and cancer insurance in Japan where it insures 1 in 4 households. For 14 consecutive years, Aflac Incorporated has been recognized by Ethisphere as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies. In 2020, Fortune included Aflac Incorporated on its list of World's Most Admired Companies for the 19th time, and Bloomberg added Aflac Incorporated to its Gender-Equality Index, which tracks the financial performance of public companies committed to supporting gender equality through policy development, representation and transparency. To find out how to get help with expenses health insurance doesn't cover, get to know us at aflac.com or aflac.com/espanol.

Media contact  Darcy Brito, 706.505.9762 or [email protected]

Analyst and investor contact  David A. Young, 706.596.3264 or [email protected]

SOURCE Aflac

Related Links

http://www.aflac.com


President Donald Trump might not know how to run things, like a country, or accomplish things, but he is a true savant when it comes to taking credit for things. Couple this sixth sense with the fact that Trump likes putting his name on things and it should come as no surprise that the Trump administration is now requiring federal food aid boxes delivered to struggling Americans be accompanied by a letter from Trump taking credit for the government help. The practice was Ivanka Trumps idea, according to Fox News, and first got started over the summer with Trumps note being included in some boxes along with a message about coronavirus safety.

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With the election just over a month away and Trump trailing in the polls, the optional part of the Trump branding was dropped, Politico reports. The Agriculture Department has begun requiring all of the USDAs $4 billion Farmers to Families Food Box Program being distributed by entities with government contracts include the one-page letter. As President, safeguarding the health and well-being of our citizens is one of my highest priorities, the letter reads. As part of our response to coronavirus, I prioritized sending nutritious food from our farmers to families in need throughout America.

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The USDA program redirects food that may have gone to waste, distributing it in more than 100 million boxes for household use since May. The boxes of meat, dairy, and produce, like the stimulus checks that came earlier this year, will now be explicitly branded as a Trump act of magnanimity. There are questions of whether the move violates the Hatch Act, prohibiting the use of federal resources for political activity. The Trump administration gave it a moments thought before saying nothing could be further from the truth. Politics has played zero role in the Farmers to Families food box program, the Agriculture Department said in a statement. It is purely about helping farmers and distributors get food to Americans in need during this unprecedented time. Purely.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. 5 Grad rockets fired by Azerbaijan have landed in Iran. ARMENPRESS reports ARMENPRESS reports, citing ISNA, head of Khoda Afarin County informed that 5 Grad rockets ended up in one of the villages on October 1 at 12:00, 2 of which landed on a residential house, injuring a 6-year-old child.

Khoda Afarin County is located in Irans East Azerbaijan Province that shares border with the Republic of Armenia. It can be judged from the location of the village that the Azerbaijani armed forces fired the rockets, since it is located behind the troops of the Defense Army of Artsakh and nearly 10-12 km away from the border with Azerbaijan.

Earlier, official Tehran had informed that no rocket should end up in the Iranian territory.

Editing and translating by Tigran Sirekanyan
File image: Congress leader P Chidambaram

Former Finance Minister P Chidambaram on October 1 took a jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, asking him, in a tweet, if he would hold another 'Namaste Trump' rally to honour his 'dear friend' after US President Donald Trump questioned the credibility of India's COVID-19 figures.

"Will Mr Modi hold another 'Namaste Trump!' rally to honour his dear friend?" he asked, taking a dig at PM Modi over the grand event held in Ahmedabad during the US President's India visit in February.

Chidambaram's dig came after Trump, during the first presidential debate ahead of the US polls, raised questions over the credibility of India's COVID-19 tally, claiming that it was among the countries that do not accurately disclose the number of deaths due to the pandemic.

Chidambaram tweeted:

During the 'Namaste Trump' event in Ahmedabad in February, the US President had announced three defence deals and had called PM Modi a 'tough negotiator' while saying that America "will always be faithful and loyal friends to the Indian people."
Alphabet Inc.s Google said Thursday it will pay publishers more than $1 billion (U.S.) over the next three years to license news content for a new product called Google News Showcase.

The product will display story panelsteasers for articles in Googles news sectioncomplete with images and summaries selected by publishers. Users who click on the story panels will be taken directly to news organizations websites, where a story can be read in full.

The program is launching in Germany and Brazil. Google is in talks with publishers in other countries, including the U.S., according to people familiar with the matter. Google has already signed deals with nearly 200 publications, including Der Spiegel, Stern, Handelsblatt and Folha de S. Paulo.

Google News Showcase will be integrated into the Google News app and eventually will be available on Google Search. The company plans to include audio briefings and video clips later.

The value of news to Google is really about building a more-informed world, said Brad Bender, vice president of product management for news at Google. This launch and billion-dollar global investment takes our support to a new level.

Mr. Bender said news outlets will be paid based partly on the number of stories they curate and summarize for Google News. The readership of those stories wont affect how much publishers are paid, one of the people familiar with the matter said. Mr. Bender declined to say how much publishers will be paid annually.

Several Silicon Valley heavyweights have ventured into the business of rounding up news stories. Last year, Apple Inc. launched Apple News+, which carries stories from several news organizations, including The Wall Street Journal. Apple said that product will be offered as part of a bundle for subscribers called Apple One, which will include television shows and music. Facebook Inc. is paying publishers to include story summaries in its news tab, a feature launched last year.

Google has been in talks with publishers about potential licensing arrangements since early this year, the Journal has reported.

Google is facing scrutiny from federal and state authorities. The U.S. Justice Department has been moving toward bringing an antitrust suit against Google, while state attorneys general are pursuing their own investigation of the tech company, the Journal has reported.

Some news publishers have complained about Googles dominance of the online advertising marketplace, including its various tools that help place ads on websites. Google has also been criticized by executives at major news organizationsincluding Wall Street Journal parent News Corpfor using news content in its products without paying the publishers that provide it.

Read more about:
querbeet/iStockBy ABC NEWS

(LONDON) -- Buckingham Palace will not host any major events this year due to the pandemic, according to an update on the website.



"A variety of possibilities were examined to see if it was possible for Investitures [ceremonies to award honors] to safely take place in line with the guidelines. Sadly, due to the large numbers of guests and recipients attending, it was not possible to find a way of safely delivering these events in the current circumstances," Buckingham Palace said.



The Queen still plans to divide her time between Windsor and Buckingham Palace.

Copyright  2020, ABC Audio. All rights reserved.
Early on in the pandemic, there was widespread agreement that the count would have to be extended into next year. The legal deadline for getting the results to the president is Dec. 31. The Census Bureau asked Congress to extend the deadline to the end of April 2021. The House approved the extension. The Senate has not yet done so.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday said it has filed a charge sheet against Lashkar-e-Taiba founder Hafiz Saeed, one of his Pakistani associates, a Delhi-based hawala dealer and others in connection with a money laundering probe linked to an alleged terror financing case.

The agency's case is based on a National Investigation Agency complaint filed against the accused and Pakistan-based organisation Falah-i-Insaniyat Foundation (FIF).

"The prosecution complaint (charge sheet) has been filed against Indian national Mohd Salman, Hafiz Muhammad Saeed (founder of LeT, Jamaat-Ud-Dawa and Falah-i-Insaniyat foundation), his deputy Shahid Mehmood, a Dubai-based Pakistani Mohd Kamran and Mohd Salim alias mama, a Delhi-based hawala operator under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act in an ongoing investigation linked to a terror financing case," the ED said in a statement.

Mohd Salman has been found to be involved in receiving funds from FIF operators and his associates through the hawala (illegal funds transfer) channel, the agency claimed.

"FIF is a Pakistan-based terror organisation established by Jamat-ud-Dawa. It was founded by Hafiz Saeed," it said.

FIF has been designated as terrorist organisation by the United Nations in March, 2012 while Saeed is already designated as a global terrorist by the UN.

"The FIF is nothing but a front end organisation of JuD and LeT that was formed to evade security and sanctions. The Indian government has designated FIF as a terrorist organisation in August, 2016."

"LeT seeks to raise funds and build network through FIF for further terror activities," it said. The ED said its probe found "funds were re-routed from Pakistan to Dubai and further to India through hawala channels."

"Mohd Salman was the recipient of funds sent by Mohd Kamran and his associates Abdul Aziz Behlim and Arif Gulambashir Dharampuria in Dubai," it said.

"With respect to the inflow of funds from Dubai, the quantum of funds that Mohd Salman was receiving from Mohd Kamran and his associates in Dubai through hawala channels has been quantified on the basis of emails, receipts and registers maintained by accused."

"Mohd Salman used the funds received from abroad for construction of Masjid at Uttawar in Palwal district of Haryana and for conducting marriage of poor girls in and around this village," it said.

The agency had earlier attached a Rs 73.12 lakh worth immovable property of Salman in Delhi in this case. Salman and Mohd Salim are at present in judicial custody.

The US Department of State had called FIF as an alias of LeT in November, 2010. "This was done with an intention to stem the flow of finances and resources through FIF to LeT and also to prosecute those knowingly provide funds and material support to these terror organisations."

"The humanitarian front, religious and charity work being projected by FIF are only to create disguise in the minds of people and states. Their main aim is to provide and collect funds, to create network, sleeper cells and to motivate youth to join terrorism," the ED said.
NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES



VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 01, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ExGen Resources Inc. (TSX.V: EXG; OTC: BXXRF) (ExGen, the Company) is pleased to update drilling results for Phoenix Copper Ltd.s (Phoenix) Empire Mine Project in Idaho, USA. ExGen owns 20% and Phoenix owns 80% of Konnex Resources, Inc. (Konnex), which holds the leases and claims to the Empire Mine Project. ExGen further has a 2.5% NSR royalty on the Empire Mine Project and owns 1,330,000 common shares of Phoenix.

ExGen reported an updated NI 43-101 resource estimate for the Empire Mine Project, in a news release on August 31, 2020. The updated resource estimate includes data from both the Empire Mine and Red Star drilling. ExGen reported positive metallurgical test results by AuRIC Metalurgical Labs, for the Empire Mine Project in a news release dated September 10, 2020.

To-date, Phoenix Copper Ltd., the project operator, has released results for 23 reverse circulation (RC) holes and 2 diamond drill core holes drilled at Empire as well as results for 4 core holes drilled at Red Star. None of these holes are included in the updated NI 43-101 resource estimate reported on August 31, 2020. (https://phoenixcopperlimited.com/the-empire-mine ).

EMPIRE OPEN PIT GOLD ZONE

Drill results from the Empire Mine Gold Zone and the gold and copper grades continue to impress (Table 1 and 2). Gold grades in the trends targeted in this year's drilling are consistent and remarkably high-grade, and considering their relatively shallow depths, should be readily accessible by open pit mining. These assays will be added to the database used in the calculation of the updated NI 43-101 resources estimate, which contained Measured, Indicated and Inferred Resources of 342,249 ounces of gold, 9.5 million ounces of silver, and 129,932 metric tons of copper, and used to recalculate the resource. Hardrock Consulting (HRC) is scheduled to update the resource in early Q4 2020 based on a data set consisting of 411 drill holes plus the assays from Empire channel samples due at any time. The resource update will be followed by an updated Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) in mid-Q4 2020. In addition, the metallurgical pilot testing program at AuRIC Laboratories in Salt Lake City, Utah is well underway and expected to provide additional reporting on ammonium thiosulfate (ATS) gold recovery in the coming weeks.

Holes KX20-01 and KX20-05 both returned significant, near-surface gold values at shallow depths. These shallow intercepts appear to be closely related to the higher-grade gold trend defined from the 2018 drilling. Holes KX20-09 returned 6.1 metres of 2.05 g/t gold and KX20-15 returned a gold value of 9.78 g/t over 1.5 metres. Of particular interest, in addition to gold, are the elevated silver and copper values shown throughout all of the drilling. Drill hole KX20-18 returned 1.5 metres of 508 g/t silver with 2.41 g/t gold and 6.13% copper, and holes KX20-19 and KX20-20 both showed values above 140 g/t silver, with copper intercepts above 4%. These results are not unusual given the polymetallic nature of the Empire Mine and are important in understanding the connection between the near surface, high-grade polymetallic oxide zones and the connection with the deeper, high-grade polymetallic sulphide vein system.

A total of 48 channel samples, each 1.6 m in length, were collected from limited outcroppings around the Empire Mine Open Pit Gold Zone. The channel samples were collected to aid in drill targeting and to provide grade and geological information on the magnetite skarn contact. In addition to the results from drilling, the assays for the 48 channel samples collected in the Empire Mine Open Pit Gold Zone returned respectable gold and copper grades on the surface, most notably 3.84 g/t gold, 74.1 g/t silver, and 2.83% copper (Table 3).

RED STAR

The results from core holes RSD20-01, -03, -04 and -06 (Table 4) confirm the orientation and continuation of the high-grade silver and lead system, both down-dip and to the south of the discovery outcrop, which was first discovered in the 2018 exploratory RC drilling program. Especially noteworthy are the results from core holes RSD20-01 and RSD20-03, with 1.5 metre intercepts of 204 g/t (6.56 oz/tonne) silver and 2.31% lead, and 360 g/t (11.57 oz/tonne) silver and 7.79% lead, respectively, though numerous other silver intercepts in excess of 115 g/t (3.70 oz/tonne) were received.

Holes RSD20-07 through RSD20-10 (results pending) were primarily drilled to give an indication of the limits of the mineralization, both geologically into the granite and at the limits of the patented claims to the north.

NAVARRE CREEK

The Navarre Creek Gold claims are located 5 km west of the Empire Mine. Assays for the rock chip samples are pending.

QUALITY ASSURANCE AND QUALITY CONTROL PROTOCOLS

Rock, drill core and reverse circulation samples were analyzed by ALS Global, Reno, an ISO/IEC 17025:2005 accredited facility. Copper, zinc and silver were determined by the ICP method. Copper and zinc >1% ICP are assayed using four-acid digestion and silver >100ppm by four acid digestion, whereas gold was determined by a 30gm fire assay followed by atomic absorption. Standards, duplicates and blanks were inserted into the sample stream for QA/QC purposes. Blanks and duplicates were inserted roughly every 50ft and standards were inserted roughly every 100ft. Core samples are saw cut in half and stored in a secure facility. RC chips and channel samples are stored in the same secure facility. All samples are delivered to the laboratory under chain of custody protocol and submitted using sub-form sample numbers.

Jason Riley, CEO of ExGen commented: We are encouraged to see the positive drilling results from both the Red Star deposit and the Empire Mine gold zone. We look forward to the updated 43-101 reports later this year.

QUALIFIED PERSON

Kieran Downes, Ph.D., P. Geo., a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and verified the technical information provided in this release.

ABOUT EXGEN RESOURCES INC.

ExGen, formerly Boxxer Gold Corp, is a project accelerator that seeks to fund exploration and development of our projects through joint ventures and partnership agreements. This approach significantly reduces the technical and financial risks for ExGen, while maintaining the upside exposure to new discoveries and potential cash flow. The company intends to build a diverse portfolio of projects across exploration stages and various commodity groups. ExGen currently has 6 projects in Canada and the US.

For more information on ExGen please contact ExGen Resources Inc.

Jason Tong

Chief Financial Officer

Email: jason@catapultgroup.ca

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.
"As a young reader, the fact that Mafalda was a young girl with kinky hair (not unlike mine in the mornings), made me believe that I could also have these smart thoughts and strong points of view," Ilena Rodriguez told NBC News' Cynthia Silva.

Mafalda was a comic strip ahead of its time, portraying topics such as corruption, freedom, women's rights, gender stereotypes, capitalism, and racism.

EVA LONGORIA REMINDS YOU TO REGISTER TO VOTE: Register to vote and you could get a call from Eva Longoria

Joaquin Salvador Lavado, the renowned Argentine cartoonist and creator of Mafalda known as Quino, died on Wednesday, Sept. 30 at the age of 88, according to his editor in Buenos Aires.

When I was a kid and first came across the Mafalda comic strip, I fell in love, not realizing the impact she was making or the values she stood for.

Lavado created the comic strip of the beloved Argentine girl with dark black hair and powerful political views in 1964.

People across Twitter expressed their gratitude and mourned the loss of the famed cartoonist, including celebrities like Ricky Martin.

"Quino was able to use Mafaldas seeming innocence to spread scathing criticism, including of the dictatorships that plagued Latin America from the 1960s. He himself lived through military rule in Argentina," said Lucila Sigal, and Maximilian Heath with Reuters.

Lavado will be remembered as one of the most influential Latino artists of his time, a man who taught a generation of enduring lessons of society and humanity.
Kwame Baffoe, Bono Regional Chairman of the NPP, has disclosed that the Overlord of Dagbon, Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II sacked the leadership of Western Togoland Separatists from his Palace when they called on him.



According to Kwame Baffoe, popularly called Abronye DC, the Dagbon Overlord made it emphatic to the group that he is not interested in leaving Ghana.



About three weeks ago, the leadership of the separatist group went to the Palace of Yaa Naa to claim the whole Dambai to Yendi lands as part of Western Togoland but were eventually sacked the moment he heard that they are part of the Western Togoland group, Abronye DC said on UTVs Adekye Nsroma.



Abronye stated that the Yaa Naa told the group he prefers peace in Ghana.













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.

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The death toll from a wildfire raging in northern Californias Cascade foothills climbed to four on Wednesday as firefighters battling that blaze and another wreaking havoc in wine country near San Francisco braced to confront a new bout of high winds.

Diminished winds across northern California assisted fire crews in making some initial headway on Tuesday against both blazes, which have scorched well over 100,000 acres (40,000 hectares) combined since they erupted about 200 miles (320 km) apart on Sunday.

On Wednesday, crews fighting the so-called Zogg Fire in Shasta County and a separate blaze dubbed the Glass Fire in Napa and Sonoma counties scrambled to reinforce their control lines and tamp down hotspots while weather remained in their favor.

A red-flag warning for heightened wildfire risks, including extreme winds, is due to be reinstated Wednesday evening for areas just north of San Francisco Bay, including the world-class wine-growing regions of Napa and Sonoma counties.

Above-normal heat and extremely low humidity has persisted, even after fierce winds that fanned the explosive fires earlier in the week subsided on Tuesday.

Authorities were also on guard for a return of high winds in Shasta County, closer to the Oregon border, California Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) officials said.

Nows the time for our firefighters to buckle down, Cal Fire Assistant Chief Bill See said during a late-morning update on the Glass Fire. Well be diligently trying to secure the back door on this fire.

He added that the Napa Valley resort town of Calistoga, known for its hot springs, mud baths and wine tasting rooms but under full evacuation since late Monday, was a particular focal point for fire-protection efforts.

The Glass Fire has already destroyed 80 homes and 32 other structures, including the mansion-like Chateau Boswell winery and a farmhouse containing storage, bottling and fermentation facilities at the Castello di Amorosa winery, built to resemble a 13th-century Tuscan castle. The castle itself was unscathed.

Some 80,000 people have been placed under evacuation orders, including all 5,300 residents of Calistoga.

The Zogg fire, burning near the town of Redding, has destroyed at least 146 structures, with some 15,000 structures listed as threatened and 2,200 residents under evacuation orders or advisories.

The causes of the two fires are under investigation. Both were fueled by overgrown thickets of tinder-dry grass scrub covering the hilly, rugged terrain in each area.

SMOKE-REDUCED VINTAGE

The Glass Fire struck midway through the traditional grape-harvesting season in Napa and Sonoma counties, both world-renowned among Californias wine-producing regions and still reeling from a cluster of large wildfires earlier this summer.

The full effect on the regions wine business remained to be seen. But industry officials said some vintners would likely scale back production of certain wines due to smoke exposure to grapes still on the vines when the fires struck. Several Napa Valley growers said recently they would forgo a 2020 vintage altogether due to smoke contamination of their crop.

The blazes marked the latest flashpoints in a destructive spate of wildfires this summer across the U.S. West.

California fires have scorched over 3.9 million acres (1.5 million hectares) since January - far exceeding any single year in state history. They have been stoked by increasingly frequent and prolonged bouts of extreme heat, high winds and dry-lightning sieges that scientists attribute to climate change.

More than 7,200 homes and other structures have burned statewide this year.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed support to the two wounded Le Monde journalists who came under Azerbaijani artillery shelling in the town of Martuni in Artsakh, RIA Novosti reported.

Macron said he will provide all necessary support to the two French reporters.

One of the two wounded Le Monde reporters is in grave condition.

Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan
Mumbai, Oct 1 : Ananth Mahadevan is off to the Busan International Film Festival with his new film, and he has shared what compelled him to make his latest.

Titled "Bittersweet", Mahadevan's new film has been nominated in the Competition section of the prestigious film fest that will take place between October 21 and October 30 this year.

Mahadevan says the condition of female sugarcane cutters in the Beed district of Maharashtra was an eye-opener, and he felt he had to tell their story.

"It was so disappointing to realise that something like this is going on in India, in Maharashtra. When I started probing the issue and researching, there was not much document or hard material available. It is a volatile subject and is about human survival at a humongous cost, under an excruciating circumstance," Mahadevan told IANS.

Elaborating on the issue, the filmmaker said as sugarcane is a seasonal crop, the cutters had to earn money within six months so that they could survive for the rest of the year. Since menstruation is part of a woman's life, if any female worker takes a day off during that time of the month, the authorities not only deduct her salary but also of the male members of her family.

He continued, "You must not forget that India is the second-largest sugarcane exporter after Brazil. But what is the price that the authority is demanding to achieve economical success, from these sugarcane cutters -- especially the women workers who are working on the field?" "There is a nexus between sugarcane barons, field contractors, the politicians, and local gynaecologists. The solution that they came out with is hysterectomy surgery -- removal of the uterus of women who are working in the sugarcane fields. Ten years ago, when the issue was raised, the local doctors, with constant counselling and brainwashing, made the women understand that removal of the uterus would be beneficial for them. They are told that if there is no uterus, there would be no menstruation problem, and no cancer of the uterus, and they could work freely -- no salary cuts! The frightening part is, no women made any complaint initially and later it became a common practice!" he said.

According to the filmmaker, the account that is shown in the film is based on news reports as well as interactions with locals and victims.

"Today, when I am talking to you, 90 per cent of the female population of Beed do not have wombs. They cannot give birth to children. They destroyed the biological circle of these women. It left me shaken as a filmmaker," he added.

The Marathi film features Akshaya Gurav, Suresh Vishwakarma, Anil Nagarkar, Guru Thakur, Asit Redij, and Vinayak Divekarsmita Tambe among others.

(Arundhuti Banerjee can be contacted at arundhuti.b@ians.in)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
The Bombay high court on Thursday directed the Maharashtra government to respond to a public interest litigation (PIL) complaining about the lack of implementation of certain provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.

A bench comprising chief justice Dipankar Datta and justice Girish Kulkarni has asked the government to file its affidavit in a reply to the PIL filed by social activist Arjun Malge complaining about the lack of implementation of certain provisions of the POCSO Act which mandate that the police must report all developments in a case, such as the arrest of the accused, applications filed before courts in connection with the case, etc.

His counsel, advocate Som Shekhar Sundar pointed out to the high court that Section 40 of the POCSO Act confers the right of engaging legal counsel of their choice on the family or guardian of the child (victim of the crime) and Rule 4(13) of the POCSO Rules, 2020 mandate the police keep them informed about the developments in the case.

Also Read: Fatal injury not a must to invoke attempt to murder charge: Bombay high court

Sundar complained that there was no implementation of these legal provisions in Maharashtra and the study conducted by the petitioner revealed that these provisions are followed more in breach than in practice in the state, said the lawyer.

He also mentioned several orders passed by various special POCSO courts in Mumbai, none of which mentioned any notice having been sent to the child or his or her family about the legal proceedings.

Sundar also pointed out that Orissa and Manipur high courts have passed appropriate orders in this regard, and urged the high court to issue a circular to the lower courts in Maharashtra to be mindful of the legal provisions and the rights of the children.

The high court, however, thought it necessary to first ask the state government for its response to the PIL, and posted the PIL for further hearing on October 13.
Telangana chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao on Thursday decided to confront the Centre for its failure to resolve the river water disputes between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, even after six years of bifurcation of the combined state.

When it comes to protecting the interests of farmers in the state, I am ready to fight even with God. We shall ensure that Telangana would get its rightful share of every drop of water in Godavari and Krishna rivers, the chief minister said.

At a high-level meeting of the irrigation department in Pragati Bhavan, KCR finalised the strategy to be adopted by the state government at the apex council meeting convened by Union Jal Sakthi minister Gajendra Singh Shekawat on October 6.

Andhra Pradesh chief minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy would present his states arguments at the meeting called to discuss the disputes between the two Telugu states on river water sharing.

Asking the officials to put forth powerful arguments supported by all the required data before the apex council meeting, KCR said he would expose the Centres inaction in resolving the inter-state water disputes.

Under the AP Reorganisation Act, Telangana should be allocated its water share in the rivers. We wrote a letter to the Prime Minister on June 14, 2014 within two weeks of the formation of Telangana, requesting him to take up water allocation to the state. We had asked for the constitution of a special tribunal under Section (3) of the Inter State River Water Disputes Act 1956 or through the existing tribunal, he pointed out.

The chief minister regretted that even after six years, there was no response for the letter written to the PM. The Centre is trying to give an impression that it is settling the disputes by calling for apex council meetings. In reality, the Centre is not doing anything, he said.

Stating that he would take the Centre to task at the apex council meeting on October 6, KCR said there should be absolute clarity on the allocation of water to Telangana.

The chief minister also vowed to give a befitting reply to Andhra Pradesh which, he said, was intentionally creating disputes on the river water sharing. We shall put forth our arguments so strongly that the AP government will not raise the issues again in future. We shall reject the attempts made to undermine the rights of Telangana people, KCR said.

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A junior police officer has backed down from an earlier statement where he described being repeatedly struck by a woman who he tasered twice, a court has heard.

Constable Mark Brown was being cross-examined on Wednesday in a Sydney local court over an incident which led to the unlawful arrest of Anya Bradford.

Senior Constable Mark Follington, 61, has pleaded not guilty to five charges including evidence-tampering after the May 2019 arrest in the southwest Sydney suburb of Liverpool.

Constable Mark Brown was being cross-examined on Wednesday in a Sydney local court over an incident which led to the unlawful arrest of Anya Bradford (pictured outside court on Wednesday)

Follington is accused of twice assaulting Anya Bradford, who'd been asked for her ID in the gaming room of the Golden Fleece Hotel, and then falsely accusing her of assaulting him and resisting arrest.

After Ms Bradford told the officers she did not have any ID and walked away, CCTV footage shows Follington grab her arm, leading to a scuffle in which the Crown alleges the officer shoved the woman's head into an ATM.

On Wednesday Const Brown said he and his partner experienced a 'flurry' and 'quick succession of strikes' by Ms Bradford, before he pulled out his taser and struck her in the back.

'I think there may have been groin kicks' he said.

However, the video footage obtained from inside the hotel venue shows his earlier memory of the event was mistaken.

'You've attributed some degree of violence from Bradford upon yourself that's simply untrue?' barrister Ray Hood said.

Senior Constable Mark Follington (left) is accused of twice assaulting Ms Bradford (right), who'd been asked for her ID in the gaming room of the Golden Fleece Hotel, and then falsely accusing her of assaulting him and resisting arrest.

'Yes,' Const Brown replied.

'I recorded what happened to the best of my memory.'

When Ms Bradford was asked for her identification inside the hotel Const Brown said she told them to 'f*** off' she had a meeting to go to, and called them 'grunts'.

The junior officer tasered her twice as she fled out the door to the Liverpool Community Corrections Office building foyer.

Following the incident Const Brown was told by a professional standards duty officer to make precise notes of what had occurred.

Those notes were called into question on Wednesday and analysed in light of the video footage.

Follington had charged Ms Bradford with assault and she spent the night in custody.

But after the material was later reviewed by senior police it was advised Ms Bradford's charges be dismissed.

The court previously heard Follington referred to Ms Bradford as 'it' during the altercation.

The hearing has been adjourned and is due to continue on February 25 in 2021.
Photo: Castanet Staff

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau outlined Thursday how the Canada Infrastructure Bank intends to invest $10 billion in projects meant to create 60,000 jobs and contribute to the fight against climate change.

"We will continue to do what it takes to support Canadians through this crisis, safely get our economy back up and running, and get people back to work," Trudeau said in a release accompanying the announcement.

The list does not include specific projects  or any new money  but highlights priority areas in which the bank intends to invest.

That includes $1.5 billion for agricultural infrastructure in Western Canada and $2 billion for broadband to expand access to high-speed internet service across the country.

It also includes $2.5 billion for clean power, $1.5 billion for zero-emission buses and $2 billion to retrofit buildings for energy efficiency.

The announcement includes $500 million to help speed up the things that need to be done before starting construction, such as studies and technical reports.

Trudeau was joined by the new chair of the bank's board, Michael Sabia, and Infrastructure Minister Catherine McKenna.

The Liberals say the investment plan is part of the government's promise in last week's throne speech to create one million jobs and help revive an economy ravaged by the COVID-19 pandemic.

It is also intended to help the government meet its goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Trudeau's government launched the infrastructure bank in 2017 with the authority to spend $35 billion over 10 years.

The idea was for the bank to entice funding from private-sector partners, particularly big institutional investors like pension funds, to pay for what the government called "transformational" infrastructure projects.

However, the bank has been criticized for the relatively few investments it has made thus far, in just nine projects. During last fall's federal election campaign, both the Conservatives and the NDP promised to abolish the bank if elected.

The bank has invested $1.28 billion in the REM automated light rail network in Montreal. It's pledged up to $2 billion to expand GO Transit service between Toronto and Hamilton and up to $300 million to increase container-handling capacity at the port of Montreal.

Other investments are small (such as $55 million to Via Rail for the development of plans for an eventual high-speed rail corridor between Toronto and Quebec City), are for consulting or advisory services, or are just at the stage of memorandums of agreement.

Sabia, the former head of Quebec's pension fund, was named chairman of the board in April amid a shakeup of the bank's senior executives.

At that time, he and the government predicted that the bank would play a major role in stimulating the economy after the pandemic.
(Natural News) It was another busy week for Americas addled, white twenty-somethings trying to fight fascism. This time in Philadelphia an enraged mob of anti-fascists was caught on tape chasing random people through parks, destroying their vehicles, and even attacking their pets, all while shouting Nazi! in their general direction.

These misinformed Marxists, as Zero Hedge refers to them, were first seen chasing a young man through a public park while hurling insults and vulgarities at him. Though it is unclear what took place prior, one anti-fascist is heard yelling, Holy s***! You made a bad mistake! while in hot pursuit of the victim.

Another anti-fascist, cloaked in what appears to be the hood of a $500 REI jacket, is then seen attempting to kick the victim as he is running away, only to fall on his behind after swinging his leg upward, missing and tripping on the grass.

The hilarious, yet disturbing, scene went viral on Twitter along with the hashtag #Antifa to indicate that this was yet another incident involving anti-fascists trying to eliminate Nazis from the streets of America.

In another clip also out of Philadelphia, a mob of anti-fascists is seen bashing and kicking a mans car as he is trying to pull away from the curb. The anti-fascists used hammers to smash the windows of the car, revealing a terrified dog inside who was trying to protect his owner from the violent anti-fascists.

Because the man in the vehicle apparently took too long to drive away, probably because he was being blocked by anti-fascists on all sides, the anti-fascists continued to kick in his doors and cause major damage to the car. The dog was also seen propping his paws up on the broken glass, which we hope and pray did not cause any harm to the pup.

F*** off Nazi scum! were the words heard emanating from the mouths of the mixed group of anti-fascists, which included both black and white protesters fighting fascists and Nazis.

Get the f*** out of here! they further screamed while bashing the vehicle and denting the door panels. As the vehicle is seen finally driving away after figuring out a path, one of the anti-fascists then throws a rock at the back of the car, thankfully missing the large hole in the window where the dog was barking in terrified horror.

Antifa: fighting fascism one domestic terror assault at a time

All of this is President Trumps fault, of course, at least according to Joe Biden who recently blamed the president for supposedly encouraging anti-fascists to commit horrific acts of violence against innocent Americans.

His running mate Kamala Harris, by the way, fully supports this type of terrorism and believes there needs to be a whole lot more of it to create equality.

The duo appears to be egging on the violence in a bizarre attempt to prevent Donald Trump from winning reelection  as if roving anti-fascists destroying property, terrorizing people and pushing extreme leftism will somehow help their chances of winning on Nov. 3. Should that fail, the anti-fascists will probably just burn down the country in their continued fight against fascism.

Mostly peaceful auto-detailing, with many locations in and around the City of Brotherly Love, joked one Twitter user about the hypocrisy of calling oneself an anti-fascist while inflicting terror and violence on innocent victims.

Put my dog at risk and Im running somebody over, wrote another, noting that animal abuse is the straw that breaks the camels back when it comes to dealing with violent anti-fascists.

More related news about the violence of anti-fascist Black Lives Matter (BLM) terrorists can be found at Terrorism.news.

Sources for this article include:

ZeroHedge.com

NaturalNews.com

NaturalNews.com
This summer, the House of Representatives voted 232-180 to turn Washington, D.C., into the nations 51st state. The first D.C. statehood bill to pass a house of Congress, the legislation would shrink the federal district to the White House, the National Mall, and the Capitol complex, and grant voting representation in the House and Senate to the 700,000-plus D.C. residents who live outside of those areas.

Opinion Debate Will the Democrats face a midterm wipeout? Mark Penn and Andrew Stein write that "only a broader course correction to the center will give Democrats a fighting chance in 2022" and beyond.

write that "only a broader course correction to the center will give Democrats a fighting chance in 2022" and beyond. Matthew Continetti writes that time and again, the biggest obstacle to a red wave hasnt been the Democratic Party. Its been the Republican Party.

writes that time and again, the biggest obstacle to a red wave hasnt been the Democratic Party. Its been the Republican Party. Ezra Klein speaks to David Shor, who discusses his fear that Democrats face electoral catastrophe unless they shift their messaging.

speaks to David Shor, who discusses his fear that Democrats face electoral catastrophe unless they shift their messaging. Michelle Cottle examines two primary contests that will shake the parties well beyond the states in play.

Republicans are vehemently opposed. Why? Not for any procedural or good-faith constitutional reasons. D.C., which has more people than Vermont or Wyoming and is gaining on Alaska, pays more in federal taxes than 21 states and its young people have served in every U.S. war of the past two centuries. D.C. residents originally had the right to vote in congressional elections, but it was stripped away by the Organic Act of 1801, a hastily crafted bill passed by a lame-duck Federalist Congress. They have been fighting for voting representation in Congress ever since.

No, Republicans oppose granting full voting rights to D.C. residents primarily because they fear the new state will produce two new Democratic senators. They are right. And that is precisely why Democrats should make securing the House and Senate votes needed to achieve D.C. statehood a priority.

Some readers who believe such issues should be detached from party politics may wince at our openly partisan appeal. But admitting new states has always been partisan. In the 19th century, party and regional antagonisms drove the process of admitting new states. Think of the famous Missouri Compromise in 1820, when Maine was carved from Massachusetts as a free state to balance the admission of a slave state, Missouri. In the decades following the Civil War, Republicans rammed more than half a dozen new sparsely populated Western states through Congress to strengthen their hold on the federal government. Partisan, ideological and racial politics stalled the admission of Hawaii and Alaska until party leaders agreed to admit the two together in 1959.

In this highly polarized political moment, it is hard to imagine bipartisan support for D.C. statehood. Yet Republican opposition to the right of D.C. citizens to full representation in Congress is a relatively recent phenomenon. In the mid-20th century, when district residents had no voting rights and were governed by three presidentially appointed commissioners, members of both parties favored expanded voting rights. In 1961, Democrats and Republicans alike supported the 23rd Amendment giving Washingtonians the right to vote for president. Richard Nixon signed a 1970 law giving the district a nonvoting delegate to the House of Representatives and, three years later, signed the D.C. Home Rule Act creating an elected local government.
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Five Afghan soldiers and four civilians were killed and four people wounded after a Taliban suicide bomber detonated a car bomb outside a security checkpoint in southern Helmand province, an Afghan spokesman confirmed Thursday.

"A terrorist detonated an explosive-laden van in front of a security checkpoint along a main road in Wazir Manda, Nahri Sarraj district Wednesday night. The explosion killed five soldiers manning the checkpoint and wounded three military personnel," provincial government spokesman Omar Zwak told Xinhua.

The blast also affected a civilian car passing-by the area, killing two women and two men, and wounding one child who was also aboard the car, the spokesman added.

Helmand province, notorious for poppy growing, is a known Taliban stronghold. Local Taliban fighters reportedly claimed responsibility for the attack.

Taliban militants, who ruled the country before being ousted in late 2001, renewed armed insurgency killing government troops as well as civilians.

They frequently attack district offices, military camps, government installations and security checkpoints, while the Afghan troops respond with airstrikes on militant targets in the countryside.
Students at East Ridge Elementary will soon be playing ukuleles in music class thanks to a $250 Music and Arts Grant the school received from California Casualty. The grant was applied for by Charlene Cook, the music teacher at East Ridge Elementary, and will allow the school to purchase a classroom set of soprano ukuleles.



Once a class set of 30 is obtained, my colleague James Glass and I will be able to teach ukulele to all the fifth grade classes at East Ridge Elementary at the same time, said Ms. Cook. In the past, we had to share a set of ukuleles, which greatly slows down the learning process. Imagine, once we can do programs again, 60 ukuleles all on one stage.



East Ridge Elementary is one of 146 public schools in 31 states receiving a total of $36,500 from the Music and Arts Grants.

"Art and music programs have long been shown to enhance a students critical thinking skills and creativity," officials said. "They also have been shown to improve concentration, motivation and confidence. With COVID-19 challenging communities and education programs, the arts play an even more critical role in helping children express themselves, connect with each other and process stress. For students in HCS at Home or when students learn remotely, the arts help them stay engaged in their virtual learning environment."



California Casualtys Music and Arts Grants will give more students a chance to learn music, act in a school play or hone their artistic talents  in-person or virtually  throughout the 2020-2021 academic year. East Ridge Elementary students will learn more about music playing their ukuleles.



Students love to showcase their creativity and help educators keep music, and the arts at the forefront of everyday learning is absolutely the right thing for us to do, said Brian Goodman, assistant vice president for California Casualty.



California Casualtys Music and Arts Grant program receives applications year-round. To be considered for a 2021 award, Tennessee public k-12 schools can apply for a $250 Music and Arts Grant at www.calcasmusicartsgrant.com.


A former Irish justice minister has said the documentary Unquiet Graves - broadcast recently on RTE - was based on dubious testimony of a convicted murder and asked what due diligence the broadcaster made before it was aired.

Laois TD Charlie Flanagan said he did not believe the documentary was objective, fair minded and balanced and questioned if RTE bosses were aware of how it was funded.

He has written to RTE director of programming outlining his concerns over the decision to show the documentary, which alleges how the so-called loyalist Glenanne Gang murdered 120 civilians in Armagh and how the British Government colluded with it.

The documentary features evidence from John Weir, a self-confessed member of the terror group.

The film was made by Sean Murray, son of former IRA prisoner Sean 'Spike' Murray, who is still an influential republican in Belfast.

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The film was broadcast on RTE last month, attracting an average 213,000 viewers.

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Mr Flanagan said the documentary was too reliant on the testimony of Weir.

Essentially this is a programme, quite a shocking programme actually, outlining some of the most horrific acts of the Troubles in the 1970s that were perpetrated in what was known as the murder triangle, Mr Flanagan told Newstalk.

But it seemed to me that the essence of the programme was based on the testimony, an affidavit, of a guy called John Weir who himself was a convicted murderer, a criminal, who had motives that to my mind were somewhat dubious.

That is the basis of the programme and I am concerned that it should have been based just on the testimony of one character who has been outside this jurisdiction for quite some time but whose evidence to my mind is fundamentally questionable.

He added: I am concerned that RTE showed the programme without what I felt was due diligence and I want that question answered in so far as what background checks were undertaken by RTE in the form of due diligence?

My third concern is the matter of the cost. I am not an expert in film production but I did make some enquiries and these enquiries resulted in my being told that this film could have cost up to 400,000 to produce and make and I am wondering what due diligence RTE did in order to follow the money.

Mr Flanagan said he was awaiting a response from RTE and he is yet to make a complaint through the Broadcasting Authority.

The producers of the film have said it was privately funded and that no political party made any contribution.

Mr Flanagan said: I was a solicitor before I entered politics. If somebody came into my office with a bag of money and said I, want to buy a house, the issue would not so much be the purchase of the house, the issue would be the money and where the money came from.

I do believe that RTE, being the national broadcaster that are and with their obligations from a public service point of view, had a duty.

Several members of the Glennnane Gang were serving members of the RUC and security services at the time.

The documentary includes shocking claims by Weir, a former RUC officer, who said the British military initiated plans for a massacre at a Catholic Primary School in Co Armagh in the 1970s.

Mr Weir claimed the plot was intended as a retaliation for the Kingsmill massacre of 1976 in which 10 Protestant workmen were shot dead by the IRA.

Mr Weir said the plot came from military intelligence to make the Troubles spiral out of control but that it was ultimately a step too far for the UVFs Belfast leadership.

An RTE spokesperson said the documentary was subject to editorial review within RTE prior to broadcast, including by its Editorial Standards Board.

"The programme draws on a number of sources, including an interview with John Weir. Mr. Weir's evidence has previously been assessed by An Garda Siochana and Mr Justice Barron, among others. Their assessment of his evidence is included in Mr Justice Barron's report to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Justice, Equality, Defence and Womens Right in December 2003.

"RTE has no oversight of production budgets on acquired programmes, as our engagement with producers and/or distributors begins when the programme has already been completed. RTE acquires these productions on the basis of an editorial judgement and their suitability for transmission."

Filmmaker Sean Murray told the Belfast Telegraph he will be seeking a meeting with Mr Flanagan after his comments.

He said: "Mr Flanagan appears not to have viewed the film (although he features in it himself during an attendance at a Dublin/Monaghan bombings commemoration).

"If he had done, he would have seen testimony from, amongst others, former London Metropolitan Detective Steve Morris of the Historical Enquiries Team.

"Strangely, Mr Flanagan did not mention the Dublin/Monaghan bombings although they resulted in the greatest single loss of life, 34, in any one-day during the conflict in the jurisdiction in which he is a public representative.

"Mr Flanagan claims that the evidence given in the film by former RUC Sergeant John Weir is 'seriously questionable'. This contradicts the Garda view as expressed to the Barron Inquiry into the Dublin/Monaghan bombings which has twice been endorsed by Oireachtas joint committees.

"At no point in the film does anyone claim that all RUC officers were involved in collusion. On the contrary, it credits Det. Sgt. Gerry McCann of the RUC who was amongst the first to suspect collusion.

"The film has the support of the Glenanne families. Mr Flanagan appears to challenges the right of victims to tell their own story in whatever way they find appropriate. He has no right to censor or restrict how victims recount their own experiences."

This article was updated on October 6.
MPs and local mayors are unhappy about Boris Johnson's latest coronavirus restrictions - Pool

Boris Johnson is facing a new rebellion on the backbenchers, after his Government was accused of presiding over a "nanny state".

Philip Davies, the MP for Shipley, told the Commons the 10pm hospitality curfew was doing untold damage to businesses and prompting "jobs to be lost, all just to see people congregating on the streets again".

"When will the Secretary of State act like a Conservative and stop this arbitrary nanny state socialist approach, which is serving no purpose at all apart from to further collapse the economy and erode our freedoms," he asked Matt Hancock.

Noting Mr Davies had voted against renewing the Coronavirus Act yesterday, the Health Secretary said the "hundreds of thousands of deaths that would follow is not price to pay" for his colleague's preferred option of "just letting it rip".

He added: "I do believe in individual responsibility and the promotion of freedom - subject to not harming others."

During the same debate Sir Desmond Swayne claimed the curfew was "rather unfair given [New Forest's] very low infection rate and restauranteurs and landlords have invested a great deal in Covid-secure measures and reduced capacity".

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has called for the Government to consider whether the 10pm curfew should remain in place.

Sir Keir said: "We are supporting the package the Government has put in. But I think [Greater Manchester Mayor]Andy Burnham in particular has questioned whether the 10pm curfew is working as intended.

Story continues

"He has pointed, understandably, to lots of people coming out of venues at the same time.

"I suggest it might be a good idea for the Government to reflect on what Andy Burnham is saying and ask themselves the question whether that should stay in place."

See the rest of the day's news below

03:30 PM

And that's it for another day...

MPs are clearly starting to take the working from home advice seriously, with Westminster feeling quiet this afternoon - but despite that it was still a busy day in politics.

Ursula von der Leyen made good on her promise to bring legal proceedings against the UK over the Internal Market Bill - a piece of legislation that one former senior judge damned as "a cack-handed negotiating tactic".

Matt Hancock confirmed that Liverpool, Warrington, Hartlepool and Middlesbrough would come under the same lockdown restrictions in place for the North East, prompting one local mayor to threaten to "defy" him, while other local leaders called for more than the "drop in the ocean" 7m financial support.

Yet another leaks inquiry has been launched to uncover who has been passing details of proposals for responding to asylum seekers after Brexit.

Meanwhile Stanley Johnson and Jeremy Corbyn have apologised for being in the headlines for all the wrong reasons, after both men were pictured flouting the lockdown rules.

Labour frontbencher Rosenna Allin-Khan said they should both pay a fine - while Jeremy Hunt said the police should be "lenient". But what did you think?

Today's poll split opinion with 51 per cent saying both men should pay the 200 penalty to set an example - while 39 per cent said they should both be let off.

A further nine per cent said the former Labour leader should face the punishment alone - just one per cent said the Prime Minister's father should.

That's it from me today - I'll be back from 8am tomorrow, to bring you the latest news from SW1.

02:53 PM

Amnesty International welcomes EU's legal steps to ensure government respects international law

The human rights organisation welcomed today's announcement by the European Commission that it is initiating legal action against the UK Government as a result of the Internal Market Bill.

Patrick Corrigan, Amnesty International UKs Northern Ireland Programme Director, said that the initiation of legal proceedings by the European Commission was "a welcome attempt to ensure that the UK abides by its international treaty commitments".

The Internal Market Bill, as it currently stands, fundamentally undermines the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement and the principle of no diminution of rights and equality safeguards for people in Northern Ireland," he said.

A whos-who of official bodies in Northern Ireland  from the Human Rights Commission to the Lord Chief Justice  have spoken publicly of their concerns that this Bill threatens the peace agreement, the protection of human rights and the rule of law.The Government must start listening to those voices. Before this Bill ends up in international court, the UK should reconsider its attitude to international law and withdraw the offending provisions in this Bill.

02:41 PM

Nicola Sturgeon warns support for independence will increase over Internal Market Bill

Scotland's First Minister said independence will increase if Westminster disregards a Holyrood vote on the Internal Market Bill.

The Scottish Government has recommended the Scottish Parliament rejects the legislative consent motion- which gives permission for the UK Government to legislate in a devolved area- it will vote on in the coming weeks.

"If the Scottish Parliament refuses to give its consent to this Bill, any UK government worth its salt would do the right thing and respect the views of this Parliament," she told First Minister's Questions.

"If it doesn't do that, if it insists in legislating over the heads of this Parliament in devolved areas, then all the UK Government succeeds in doing is demonstrating that is has no respect for this Parliament and if this Parliament is to have the power to make its own decisions then it needs to stop being a devolved parliament and become an independent parliament so the UK Government can't do that."

02:28 PM

Sir Keir questions 10pm curfew

The Labour leader has called on the Government to consider whether the 10pm curfew should remain in place, following concerns raised by Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham and others.

We are supporting the package the Government has put in. But I think Andy Burnham in particular has questioned whether the 10pm curfew is working as intended.He has pointed, understandably, to lots of people coming out of venues at the same time.I suggest it might be a good idea for the Government to reflect on what Andy Burnham is saying and ask themselves the question whether that should stay in place.

02:09 PM

Labour leader slams 'inhuman' asylum seeker proposals

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has condemned the "inhuman" ideas being suggested for dealing with asylum seekers.

He told reporters in Westminster: "This isn't creative thinking, this is lurching from one ridiculous proposition to the next - these suggestions are inhuman and the Government shouldn't be pursuing them.

"Everybody knows that the biggest problem with asylum seekers' claims is that it takes a long time for the Home Office to process them, that's the problem, it's been there for years.

"Get your house in order, get that sorted out instead of lurching from one ridiculous proposition to another."

Sir Keir acknowledged that "there is of course an issue with people trying to get to the United Kingdom, but people are fleeing often from persecution".

Calling for international co-operation he added: "We should be talking to France about how we handle this, not coming up with ever more ridiculous suggestions that have been floating round in the last couple of days."

02:06 PM

EU and UK should end 'absurd' legal row, says Sir Keir Starmer

Sir Keir Starmer has said both sides in the UK-EU talks needed to get around the table and end the "absurd" legal row.

Echoing comments by shadow frontbencher Rachel Reeves earlier today, the Labour leader told reporters at Westminster: "Here we are in October of 2020, weeks away from the deadline for a deal and we are in this absurd situation of threatening court action.

"A deal can be done here, the issues that are there are quite capable of being resolved. Both sides need to sit down, resolve them, get a deal. That's in the national interest - it's in our interest and the EU's interest."

He added: "It's absurd that with weeks to go the focus and the energy is not on their negotiations, it's on threatened court proceedings.

"We need everybody around the table, we need to get a deal. The Prime Minister said he had an 'oven-ready deal', get on, deliver it - that's in the national interest."

01:57 PM

Nicola Sturgeon clashes with Ruth Davidson during fiery FMQs

Nicola Sturgeon has hit back at claims she is not co-operating with the Holyrood committee set up to investigate her Government's botched handling of harassment allegations against her predecessor Alex Salmond.

During a fiery First Minister's Questions today Ms Sturgeon refused to answer questions about messages reportedly sent by her husband, SNP chief executive Peter Murrell, relating to Mr Salmond.

Scottish Conservative Holyrood leader Ruth Davidson challenged her on the messages, which reportedly said it is a "good time to be pressuring" police and that the "more fronts" Mr Salmond is "having to fire-fight on the better".

Ms Sturgeon refused to say if the messages were genuine, noting that police were investigating how they had been obtained.

She told Ms Davidson: "I do not think it is reasonable for me to be asked questions about things that other people might or might not have done.

"Call the people who the messages are purported to come from and ask them the questions.

"Call me and I will answer for myself."

Nicola Sturgeon arrives to attend First Minister's Questions today - AFP

01:49 PM

Jeremy Corbyn 'knows' he should follow coronavirus rules, says Sir Keir Starmer

Jeremy Corbyn 'knows' that he should be obeying the rule of six, Sir Keir Starmer has said - but stopped short of saying his predecessor should be fined.

The current Labour leader said: "All of us should obey the rules, Jeremy knows that, I know that, all of us have to comply with the rules.

"I have said throughout that whatever the Government rules are, we should all follow them. We have got a duty to so."

Asked whether Mr Corbyn should be fined, he told reporters at Westminster: "It's not for me to decide who should be fined, but it is for me to say that everybody should follow the rules."

Earlier today shadow mental health minister Rosena Allin-Khan said her former boss should pay the 200 penalty.

"He should be fined. Everybody should be fined who breaks the rules," she told Sky News. "That also includes government advisers and the parents of the Prime Minister."

Sir Keir Starmer and Jeremy Corbyn - AFP

01:44 PM

Labour MP attacks 'disgraceful' local lockdown

Labour's MP for Hartlepool has hit out at the new local lockdown, claiming measures announced today were being imposed " without consulting local MPs (sic) and Leaders.

Mike Hill said: "Absolutely disgraceful one size fits all approach. Totally angered by this."

Just yesterday the MP had tweeted a link to an article in which he called for restrictions on household mixing.

But neighbouring MP, Conservative Simon Clarke, countered his was an "untenable argument", saying local councils had asked for local restrictions to be put in place.

The Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland MP emphasised there were "consistent measures across NE now".

This is sadly an untenable argument. The Councils *asked* for local restrictions to prevent households mixing and the Government has responded. The measures aim to break the spread of the virus as quickly as possible so normality can resume. Consistent measures across NE now. https://t.co/GuJoP1sEfD  Simon Clarke MP (@SimonClarkeMP) October 1, 2020

01:36 PM

The politics of Covid-19: Four reasons why Boris Johnson is struggling right now

Nine months on from winning the largest majority win since Margaret Thatcher, Boris Johnson is now struggling with his premiership.

Amid the most trying times of any peacetime government, the once-popular Prime Minister has now found himself in a sea of uncertainty, and the politics of coronavirus is just one of the challenges he's facing.

Watch the video below for Camilla Tominey's analysis of the four reasons why Mr Johnson appears to be floundering right now.

01:29 PM

Help students return home safely now, say university unions

Students should be allowed to return home from university and study online if they wish to do so, unions representing academics and students have said.

The National Union of Students and University and College Union have called for students to study from home "where possible", alongside a "radical overhaul" of campuses for those who remain.

Larissa Kennedy, NUS president, said students have been left "trapped in halls" and are struggling to access food and wellbeing resources, which she warned is needlessly risking lives.

Jo Grady, general secretary of the UCU, said: "Ministers need to act now and tell universities to halt in-person teaching where possible and move the majority of work online, in line with other workplaces."

The joint statement from the two unions says: "Students must not be forced to quarantine in halls of residence with no familiar support network, pastoral care and more serious restrictions than the rest of society.

"Staff must not be forced to carry out work on site that could be conducted more safely from home. Students must be allowed to safely return home if they wish to, without fear of financial penalty for leaving their student accommodation."

01:10 PM

Further 44 people die with coronavirus in English hospitals

A further 44 people who tested positive for coronavirus have died, taking the total number of confirmed deaths in hospitals in England to 30,049.

Patients were aged between 60 and 99 years old. All had known underlying health conditions.

Date of death ranges from 18 September to 30 September 2020.

The worst affected region was the North West, where 15 deaths were registered. The South West continued to record no Covid-related hospital fatalities.

01:03 PM

Legal proceedings against UK 'to be expected', claims Irish Taoiseach

Irish premier Micheal Martin has said the European Commission legal proceedings against the UK were "to be expected".

The Taoiseach added: "It gave the United Kingdom a month to respond in relation to withdrawing the Internal Market Bill and the unilateral action it took in relation to the Northern Ireland protocol.

"I met with the President, she appraised me of the decision taken by the Commission. We also discussed how we will deal with Brexit over the coming weeks and obviously there is an obligation and concern across Europe at the unilateral action by the British government and for the UK Government to resile from that.

"But parallel with that we are conscious of the need to conclude a comprehensive relationship agreement with the UK which is in the best interests of the people of Europe, the UK and Ireland.

"A sensible free trade agreement is something that we are seeking also."

Ireland's Taoiseach Micheal Martin - Reuters

12:50 PM

Internal Market Bill a 'cack-handed negotiating tactic', claims Lord Sumption

Boris Johnson's decision to press ahead with the UK Internal Market Bill has weakened the country's negotiating position with Brussels during the ongoing post-Brexit trade talks, Lord Sumption has claimed.

Speaking to BBC Radio 4's World At One programme, the former Justice of the Supreme Court said: "I think there is very little doubt this is a negotiating ploy."

The retired judge said it was a "gigantic bluff on the part of the British government" because he did not believe it was prepared to install either a hard border in Ireland or collapse the trade talks over the current state aid stalemate.

He added: "This is a cack-handed negotiating tactic. Unfortunately, you don't get an agreement with somebody by threats, tantrums and bad faith. All you do is destroy trust and weaken your own position."

Lord Sumption

Brexit's Internal Market Bill explained: what is it, and why is it so controversial?

12:32 PM

Lobby latest: Brexit talks to conclude with Barnier-Frost meeting

The final formal round of talks will conclude with a meeting between lead negotiators Lord Frost and Michel Barnier on Friday, Downing Street has confirmed.

Despite the legal action over the Withdrawal Agreement, trade talks with the European Union were being carried out in a "constructive spirit".

The Prime Minister's official spokesman said: "The discussions are carrying on today. They have been conducted in a constructive spirit and we certainly are committed to continuing to work constructively this week to reach an agreement with the EU."

It was "certainly possible" for informal discussions to continue next week, the spokesman added.

Michel Barnier and David Frost will meet tomorrow - AFP

12:26 PM

Lobby latest: Downing Street dodges questions over asylum processing plans

Downing Street has refused to comment on speculation that the Scottish islands could be turned into asylum processing centres, saying only "work is ongoing".

Multiple proposals have leaked from the Home Office in recent days, including the creation of "floating walls" and the relocation of processing centres to Ascension Island or buying retired ferries and converting the vessels into processing centres. Another option is said to include building a detention centre on a remote Scottish island.

Asked about this, the Prime Minister's official spokesman said: "We are developing plans to reform our policies around illegal migration and asylum to ensure that we are able to provide protection to those who need it while preventing abuse of the system and the criminality associated with it.

"That includes looking at what a whole host of other countries do. But that work is ongoing."

Asked whether Scottish islands could be turned into asylum processing centres, the spokesman said there were "lots of ideas reported today" and "there are a significant number of them that I really don't recognise".

12:21 PM

Lobby latest: Test turnaround times must speed up, Downing Street admits

Downing Street has acknowledged that test results must come back quicker, after figures published today showed NHS Test and Trace was still not hitting Boris Johnson's target.

The Prime Minister had pledged that, by the end of June, the results of all in-person tests would be back within 24 hours.

Last week, 38.1 per cent of people who were tested for Covid-19 in England at a regional site, local site or mobile testing unit - a so-called "in-person" test - received their result within this timeframe.

The Prime Minister's official spokesman said: "We have seen demand grow for tests. What we need to do is to work hard to turn test results round as quickly as possible.

"What we are doing to achieve that is getting more labs joining the network, investing in new technology to process results faster.

"We are automating parts of the testing process and we are hiring more permanent staff."

The measures include "the greater use of robot technology in order to allow us to process tests as quickly as we can".

12:09 PM

Lobby latest: Liverpool lockdown rules come in from Saturday

New coronavirus restrictions in Liverpool, Warrington, Hartlepool and Middlesbrough will come into force on Saturday morning at one minute past midnight, Downing Street has said.

Matt Hancock failed to tell the Commons when the new restrictions would come into force during his statement earlier today.

The Prime Minister's spokesman said the measures "mirror" those already announced for the North East of England and followed discussions with local leaders. However he was unable to confirm how many people will be under lockdown from that point.

"The regulations are formally approved by the Health Secretary," the spokesman said. "That obviously follows discussions with local leaders and based on advice by Public Health England, JBC (Joint Biosecurity Centre) and others.

"It was determined that this was the right package of measures in order to reduce the spread of the virus."

12:08 PM

Lobby latest: Prime Minister's dad understands the rules (now)

He might not have been "fully up to speed" on the face mask rules when he was caught entering a shop without one - but Boris Johnson's dad is now.

The Prime Minister's official spokesman said: "You have heard the Prime Minister's father apologise for his mistake.

"He recognises his error and fully understands that it is vital for everyone to abide by the rules on face coverings and social-distancing.

"The PM is certainly clear that the rules apply to everyone and everybody should follow them.

Stanley Johnson 'recognises his error', Downing Street says - Dimitris Kareklidis

Downing Street said it was up to the police to decide whether action should be taken against Jeremy Corbyn following reports that he broke social-distancing rules.

"In relation to individuals, it is up to the police to determine what action to take," the PM's spokesman said. "What the Prime Minister is clear on is that the rules apply to everyone and everyone should follow them."

11:59 AM

Patrick O'Flynn: Von der Leyen's risible sabre-rattling will have no impact on Britain's Brexit position

The European Commission is engaging in the most risible episode of legal sabre-rattling in the political sphere since Emily Thornberry threatened to sue Caroline Flint for claiming she had called another MPs constituents thick, writes Patrick O'Flynn.

That court case has never seen the light of day and while Brussels may end up going a little further with the legal notice served on the United Kingdom by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, it is still an act of laughable pointlessness.

Read Patrick's response to the latest salvo in the Brexit wars here.

11:48 AM

Minister rules out fully postal elections next May if Covid still widespread

A Government minister has ruled out using all-out postal voting for local elections if Covid-19 continues to be widespread into next May.

Cabinet Office minister Chloe Smith warned that relying solely on a postal vote would not be "wise" and that other countries have proven that elections can be run safely in person during the pandemic.

But Labour's Nick Smith, MP for Blaenau Gwent, said all-out postal voting would allow "safe participation" in the coming elections.

Ms Smith replied: "We want those elections in May next year to go ahead because it is extremely important that we do so and that we are able to continue with our normal way of life as a country rather than seeing any further postponement of important elections.

"I don't take the view that all-postal elections would be a wise move though, and that is for the following reason: it is principally that we have already seen around the world that elections can be run in person safely during this pandemic.

"We are confident that that can be the case here as well and I am doing all of the work necessary with the electoral community to make sure that is so."

11:39 AM

Middlesbrough South MP urges residents to pull together and 'get this done'

In contrast to the Mayor of Middlesbrough, who has said he will defy the new lockdown measures, a local MP has urged local residents to come together and "get this done".

Simon Clarke, the former minister and MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, said new measures were "very regrettable" but urged people to "focus on obeying the rules, bringing the infection rate down and getting back to normal as quickly as possible".

He added: "People in Middlesbrough are incredibly resilient and community-minded, and together we will come through the weeks ahead. Its going to be tough, but lets get this done.

People in Middlesbrough are incredibly resilient and community-minded, and together we will come through the weeks ahead. Its going to be tough, but lets get this done.  Simon Clarke MP (@SimonClarkeMP) October 1, 2020

Mr Clarke also paid tribute to the Health Secretary Matt Hancock, saying: "He is working tirelessly in the most challenging circumstances."

11:34 AM

Middlesbrough Mayor to 'defy Government' over lockdown

The independent Mayor of Middlesbrough Andy Preston said he was prepared to defy the new tighter restrictions announced by the Government.

In a video statement, he said: "I have to tell you I think this measure has been introduced based on factual inaccuracies and a monstrous and frightening lack of communication, and ignorance.

"I do not accept the statement at all. I do not accept these measures... As things stand, we defy the Government and we do not accept these measures.

"We need to get Covid under control and we need to work with people to find a way of preserving jobs and mental health."

Matt Hancock has announced that Middlesbrough and Hartlepool should face the same restrictions as elsewhere in the North East - including not to mix households in pubs.

Govt Restrictions Are Unacceptable



We tried to communicate with govt but they didnt listen



Theyre imposing restrictions thatll kill viable jobs & damage mental health



I do not accept the governments intended restrictions - theyre based on ignorance



Updates to follow pic.twitter.com/ZqtE1ES8gm  Andy Preston Mayor (@Tees_Issues) October 1, 2020

11:30 AM

Have your say on: Stanley and Jeremy's rule breaking

Two high profile men were in the papers this morning for having broken the rules - but it's not clear yet whether they will be fined.

Stanley Johnson was pictured in a shop without a face mask, while Jeremy Corbyn attended a dinner party for nine people, in breach of the rule of six.

Both men have apologised - but their actions carry a penalty of 200.

Should they be made an example of, and told to pay a fine? Or are we at the top of a slippery slope of snitching? Have your say in the poll below.

11:18 AM

Health Secretary urged to consider devolving curfew powers

Coronavirus refusenik Sir Desmond Swayne has urged Matt Hancock to consider devolving curfew powers to help incentivise pub-goers to behave "sensibly and properly".

The Conservative MP - one of a handful to vote against renewing emergency powers yesterday - told the Commons a curfew affecting his constituency of the New Forest was "rather unfair given our very low infection rate and restauranteurs and landlords have invested a great deal in Covid-secure measures and reduced capacity".

"The loss of the extra hour reduces the throughput, particularly if you want a second sitting to come through for dinner. It makes it very uneconomic."

Devolving powers would be "a powerful incentive on landlords to ensure that their patrons behaved sensibly and properly," he added.

Pubs and restaurants in the New Forest have done much to become Covid-secure. But the national curfew is making it uneconomic for some establishments to open.



Therefore, I asked the Health Secretary to consider devolving the power to impose curfews locally. pic.twitter.com/LX9bpliZZ1  Desmond Swayne (@DesmondSwayne) October 1, 2020

The Health Secretary welcomed Sir Desmond's "constructive suggestion", adding: "As we constantly have these policies under review, it's that sort of working together that will help us improve the response."

11:11 AM

Rise in 24-hour turnaround test results

There has been a rise in the proportion of people who have an "in-person" Covid-19 test getting their result within 24 hours.

New data from NHS Test and Trace shows that 38.1 per cent of people who were tested for Covid-19 in England in the week ending September 23 at a regional site, local site or mobile testing unit - a so-called "in-person" test - received their result within this timeframe.

This is up from 28.2 per cent in the previous week and follows weeks of problems with people accessing tests.

The best performance since the programme began was in the week ending July 1, when 94.3 per cent of in-person test results were returned in 24 hours.

Just 2.9 per cent of people in England who used a home test kit for Covid-19 received their result within 24 hours, up slightly from 1.8 per cent in the previous week.

Some 30.4 per cent of people received the result of a home test within 48 hours, up from 11.3 per cent in the previous week.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson had pledged that, by the end of June, the results of all in-person tests would be back within 24 hours.

11:10 AM

Allister Heath: This Jekyll and Hyde government is infuriating even Boris loyalists

This is a Jekyll and Hyde government. When its good, it is truly spectacular, a fearlessly reformist, visionary administration devoted to rebooting Britain.

When its bad, it is unfathomably terrible, and certainly as hopeless as Miliband, Brown or May would have been. Unlike ordinary governments, nothing this one does is ever merely average: the Johnson administrations performance is either great or disastrous.

Bob's cartoon today - Bob

Read Allister Heath's latest column here.

10:58 AM

Financial support for Liverpool lockdown is 'drop in the ocean', says Mayor

The Mayor of Liverpool has said he is "deeply worried" there was no financial support for businesses and the 7m for local authorities was a "drop in the ocean".

Joe Anderson told BBC Merseyside he recognised the infection rate was "basically out of control" but said hotels, bars and restaurants were at danger of closing.

He said: "It's nowhere near enough, 7m wouldn't be enough for Liverpool alone, let alone across the city region.

"It's got to be in the hundreds of millions that we need to support businesses to survive just for a matter of weeks.

"A local lockdown is fine if it helps curtail the virus but there has to be a local furlough financial scheme for local businesses to survive.

"The city and the city region are in a desperate position financially and we need that financial support and we need it now."

10:52 AM

MPs are going on a Hallowe'en holiday...

The news ministers and some MPs have been waiting for has just been confirmed by Commons leader Jacob Rees-Mogg - they will get a week off at the end of October.

With party conferences cancelled, the Commons continued sitting throughout September rather than rising for three weeks.

The House usually rises for a three-day recess in November but nothing had previously been announced for this year.

Mr Rees-Mogg told MPs: "Subject to the progress of business, the House will rise at the conclusion of business on Friday October 23 and return on Monday November 2."

MPs will be unable to challenge ministers during this period if there are any further coronavirus restrictions brought in.

Similarly there will be no update on the Brexit process - which is entering a key phase as the end of the transition period nears - or other matters of importance should recess go-ahead.

10:41 AM

And here's the letter...

The European Commission has published the letter that it has sent to the UK Government for all to see.

 @vonderleyen: We stand by our commitments.



We have launched legal proceedings against #UK for breaching the Withdrawal Agreement - an agreement aimed at protecting peace & stability on the island of Ireland.



Read more (in all EU languages): https://t.co/SbQI6SoM9Q pic.twitter.com/i8NO1ViXMm  Daniel Ferrie (@DanielFerrie) October 1, 2020

10:29 AM

Leaks investigation underway after asylum seeker proposals made public

The Cabinet Office has launched an investigation into the leaks on ideas of how to process asylum seekers, the most senior civil servant at the Home Office has said.

Permanent secretary Matthew Rycroft has repeatedly dodged questions by the Public Accounts Committee about proposals relating to asylum seekers, after successive leaks saw plans such as relocating migrants to far-flung locations such as the Ascension Islands or putting people on old ferries offshore.

"No decision has been taken," the official said. "We are at the stage of looking at all sorts of options and responding to ministers' requests for us to do so. And it is entirely proper for us to do that... But all of that needs to happen privately in order for the civil service to give ministers the very best advice that we can and that is what we are here for."

Asked whether he thought the investigation will take account of the timing of the leaks and whether they were politically motivated, he said: "I'm sure they will look at all relevant factors."

A group of people thought to be migrants are brought into Dover, Kent, by Border Force - PA

10:24 AM

Matt Hancock happy to consider 'imaginative ideas' to boost economic activity despite curfews

Matt Hancock has said he will consider an "imaginative approach" towards restrictions, such as allowing hotel bars to stay open beyond the 10pm curfew.

Conservative MP Jeremy Wright, the former culture secretary, asked whether the Government could "allow economic activity where it does not cut across public health objectives".

"For example, looking at how we might be able to allow hotel guests to stay in hotel bars where they are resident in the hotel for longer than 10 O'clock, recognising that for some hotels, they depend very substantially on that income."

The Health Secretary responded: "I'm always happy to look at, as he calls it, imaginative ideas like that. He will know that there's a tension between the clarity of the rules and bringing in additional nuances into the rules.

"He'll see how as a society we have struggled with that balance all the way through this."

10:20 AM

Brussels and Downing Street should 'drop the posturing' and get a deal, says Labour MP

Labour has told both the European Commission and UK Government to "drop the posturing" and get a trade deal done in the remaining time.

This morning Ursula von der Leyen confirmed Brussels was launching legal action against the UK over the Internal Market Bill, which includes provisions that could break international law.

Responding, Rachel Reeves, shadow chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, said: There is clearly a deal to be done. Both sides need to drop the posturing and the threats by getting back round the negotiating table and getting a trade deal done.

The country wants the Government to move on from past divisions, secure the trade agreement we need and focus on defeating this pandemic.

10:17 AM

Former minister questions thinking behind 'concentrating' time in pubs

A former minister has questioned the thinking being "concentrating" the time being are allowed to drink in a pub or restaurant, calling for Matt Hancock to set out the evidence he has received.

Greg Clark, the former business secretary, said it was "strange to think that concentrating trade in a smaller number of hours, and making everyone leave a pub or restaurant at the same time, rather than spacing them out over the course of an evening should suppress rather than spread the virus."

The Health Secretary said the advice was that "later at night social distancing becomes harder", noting that the people partying outside "would have been inside the establishments" otherwise.

"We all know outside is safer," he added. "Of course, we are keeping this under review but we have got to look at both sides of the evidence to try to get this right."

10:05 AM

Use Black History Month to 'thank figures we haven't always thanked before', says Boris Johnson

Boris Johnson has urged the country to "say thank you to figures from our past we havent always thanked before" as part of Black History Month.

The annual observance, which began in the United States, is particularly prominent this October following the Black Lives Matter protests earlier this year.

The Prime Minister added: "Black history is our history, and if we all learn from it, we will build a better future for us all."

This #BlackHistoryMonth lets say thank you to figures from our past we havent always thanked before.



Black history is our history, and if we all learn from it, we will build a better future for us all. #OurHistoryOurHeroes pic.twitter.com/PXWmGbl6o3  Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) October 1, 2020

10:01 AM

Newspapers 'mischief-making' over Parliamentary bar story, says Sir Lindsay Hoyle

Matt Hancock is challenged over reports that bars on the Parliamentary estate were selling alcohol after 10pm, despite the national curfew.

But he kicks this over to the Speaker, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, who takes the opportunity to correct the record.

"The newspapers were mischief-making - those bars were not open after 10pm, let's get that clear, I think we ought not to believe sometimes what newspapers say," he says.

Newspapers 'mischief-making', says Sir Lindsay Hoyle - AFP

09:57 AM

Matt Hancock defends 'nanny state socialist' curfew

Matt Hancock has delivered an impassioned defence of his strategy for dealing with the pandemic, after a Conservative backbencher accused him of taking an "arbitrary nanny state socialist approach".

Philip Davies, the MP for Shipley, told the Commons the 10pm hospitality curfew was doing untold damage to businesses and prompting "jobs to be lost, all just to see people congregating on the streets again".

"When will the Secretary of State act like a Conservative and stop this arbitrary nanny state socialist approach, which is serving no purpose at all apart from to further collapse the economy and erode our freedoms".

But Mr Hancock said the measures were "collectively vital for the strategy we are pursuing".

Noting Mr Davies had voted against renewing the Coronavirus Act yesterday, the Health Secretary said the "hundreds of thousands of deaths that would follow is not price to pay" for his colleague's preferred option of "just letting it rip".

He added: "I do believe in individual responsibility and the promotion of freedom - subject to not harming others... [by] giving them a disease that leads to their deaths without even knowing about it."

09:45 AM

'Why are the moles not getting whacked?' shadow health secretary asks

Matt Hancock tells MPs: "I know these measures are hard and yet another sacrifice after so many" but stresses there are "some signs that what we are doing is starting to work so don't let up".

He concludes by saying: "One day over this virus we will prevail."

His opposite number Jon Ashworth says he understands the need for further restrictions, but says on behalf of MPs in the affected area he will "press" the Health Secretary for more details on financial support.

He then turns to the millions of people in the North and the Midlands who have been under lockdown for months, saying they "just need some reassurance that an end is in sight".

The shadow health secretary asks him to confirm if the circuit break has been ruled out and "why it is the moles not getting whacked".

09:40 AM

Household mixing banned indoors in Liverpool, Matt Hancock confirms

Matt Hancock details what those new restrictions are - but not when they will come in.

"All social mixing between people of different households" is being recommended against. Legislation will be brought in to ban it in all settings except outdoor hospitality and parks.

People are being advised against attending all sporting events as spectators, and people are told to avoid care homes unless in "exceptional circumstances".

People are also advised against essential travel, although that allows for people travelling for work.

"The more people follow the rules and reduce their social contact, the quicker we can get Liverpool and the North East back on their feet," he adds.

09:36 AM

Local lockdowns for Liverpool, Warrington, Hartlepool and Middlesbrough, Matt Hancock confirms

Matt Hancock is now giving a statement "about the work to tackle coronavirus".

The Health Secretary tells the Commons that while it is spreading "there are early signs" that measures are having an impact.

He points to the study of more than 80,000 volunteers which suggests that our combined efforts "maybe beginning to work - I put it no stronger than that. Cases are still rising".

But he notes that cases are localised and rising fast in some areas.

Today new measures are being extended to Liverpool City, Warrington, Hartlepool and Middlesbrough, he says.

"We will provide 7 million to local authorities in these areas to support them with their vital work."

09:31 AM

EU's legal action backed by... Nigel Farage

The EU has received support from one person they are probably not used to being backed by - Nigel Farage.

Following Ursula von der Leyen's statement this morning the Brexit Party leader tweeted: "Whilst the EU always acts in bad faith, all they are doing today is asking Boris to keep his promises."

The oven ready deal was an international treaty  for the EU Commission, that is like the Bible.



Whilst the EU always acts in bad faith, all they are doing today is asking Boris to keep his promises.



It should never have been signed in the first place. https://t.co/PybqaSXUwk  Nigel Farage (@Nigel_Farage) October 1, 2020

09:28 AM

Government shrugs off EU's legal action

The Government has responded to the European Commission's threat of legal action this morning emphasising the need for "a legal safety net" for the UK's internal market.

"We have clearly set out our reasons for introducing the measures related to the Northern Ireland protocol. We need to create a legal safety net to protect the integrity of the UK's internal market, ensure ministers can always deliver on their obligations to Northern Ireland and protect the gains from the peace process."

But I understand that Number 10 is taking a relaxed view of the formal notice of legal proceedings, which is considered to be a commonly-used tool by the EU against member states.

09:23 AM

Leave.EU apologises to MP for libellous 'grooming gangs' Facebook post

Leave.EU has apologised to a Labour MP over a libellous Facebook post claiming she was a "grooming gangs apologist".

Naz Shah, the MP for Bradford West, took libel action against the pro-Brexit group for the social media post made following the election in December.

In a statement, the group said: "While the publication had been intended to be satirical; we appreciate that it was ill-judged and untrue. We accept that Ms Shah is not an 'apologist' for grooming gangs but is a vociferous campaigner for victims of grooming gangs.

"We apologise for the distress caused by it and have paid Ms Shah damages for libel."

The libellous comment was part of a post making fun of possible contenders to succeed Jeremy Corbyn as leader of the Labour Party.

It was taken down on the same day but had already been shared and commented on thousands of times, including on Twitter.

I faced a significant level of abuse because of these false allegations.



So I am pleased with the apology and the clarification that I am a vociferous campaigner for victims of grooming.



1/2 pic.twitter.com/RQLOZIP08q  Naz Shah MP (@NazShahBfd) October 1, 2020

09:09 AM

UK has a month to respond to 'formal notice' of legal action, says Ursula von der Leyen

Ursula von der Leyen has given a short statement, confirming the letter of formal notice is being sent to the UK Government this morning, triggering legal action over the UK's controversial new Brexit legislation.

Speaking in Brussels, the European Commission president said the Internal Market Bill is "by its very nature a breach of obligation of good faith laid down in the Withdrawal Agreement."

Moreover, "if adopted as is it will be in full contradiction" of the Northern Ireland protocol, she added.

The "problematic" clauses had not been removed by the deadline, and as a result the letter of formal notice has been sent as "the first step in the infringement procedure", Ms von der Leyen said.

The UK has a month to respond.

09:03 AM

Legal action to 'satisfy honour without rocking boat'

While we await the statement from Ursula von der Leyen, my colleague James Crisp has been tweeting his take on the latest move.

Some commentators believe it will make a no deal Brexit more likely - but he is not convinced.

Point being that this is just to ensure honour is satisfied without rocking the trade talks boat. https://t.co/MkXbhN73To  James Crisp (@JamesCrisp6) October 1, 2020

08:55 AM

Planet Normal: Restrictions are an overreaction when serious Covid-19 cases are 'on the floor'

Increased restrictions are an overreaction when serious cases of Covid-19 are "on the floor", says Ivor Cummins.

He believes the Government has got caught in a "logic trap" and is pursuing rigorous new restrictions to ensure it cannot be blamed for a second wave, and can use the measures as evidence of why a potentially good outcome is achieved.

"What they're doing is an enormous reaction when the numbers are still on the floor," he told The Telegraph's Planet Normal podcast, which you can listen to on the audio player above.

"We've got Covid-mania, to be quite honest."

08:33 AM

European Commission poised to confirm legal action against the UK over Internal Market Bill

Ursula von der Leyen is to make a statement which could be notice that the EU is taking legal action against the United Kingdom.

The European Commission president is expected to confirm the start of infringement proceedings, after Britain failed to withdraw the law-breaking provisions from the Internal Market Bill within the September deadline.

The legal action can end in hefty daily fines in the European Court of Justice but there is plenty of time to withdraw provisions if there is a trade deal agreed before that point.

Here's what RTE's Europe Editor has to say:

BREAKING: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will make a statement on Brexit at 11hr CET. @rtenews understands that legal action against the United Kingdom is imminent and that a draft "letter of formal notice" has been finalised, triggering legal action  Tony Connelly (@tconnellyRTE) October 1, 2020

However our Brussels correspondent James Crisp is optimistic that this is not necessarily the end of trade talks.

If/When Commisison announces legal action against UK for Internal Market Bill (approx 30 mins) - worth remembering this is long process w/ lots of time to reverse a breach of EU law before big fines in the ECJ.

More than enough time to agree a trade deal for example.  James Crisp (@JamesCrisp6) October 1, 2020

08:21 AM

'No room for complacency' despite encouraging study, says George Eustice

Recent data from a study suggesting the rates of coronavirus transmission are slowing is "encouraging", but there is "no room for complacency", a Cabinet minister has said.

The study, based on more than 80,000 volunteers and published this morning, suggests coronavirus restrictions in the north of England may be helping to slow the growth of the epidemic

George Eustice, the Environment Secretary, told Times Radio: "I think it's a little too early to tell, because this is just one study.

"Obviously it is an encouraging study, but we're not able to make any final decisions based on this one alone."

Detailing the rise of cases in recent weeks, he added: "There's no room for complacency, which is why we're continuing to refine our approach, continuing to take forward local lockdowns, where that's necessary.

"But it may be that some of the measures we have taken are starting to have an impact, and let's hope so."

Yesterday afternoon, Boris Johnson insisted the "only way" to fight a second wave of the virus is by making sacrifices which might have to get worse.

08:17 AM

Police should be 'lenient' towards former Labour leader over rule breach, says Jeremy Hunt

A former Cabinet minister has said police should be "lenient" towards Jeremy Corbyn and let him off without a fine, after the former Labour leader was pictured breaking the rule of six.

The Islington MP was photographed at a dinner party with eight other people. He has since apologised.

Asked about it this morning, Jeremy Hunt told Sky News his "instinct" was that the police should "show a little bit of leniency".

He added: "I actually think we should be a little bit lenient. When the first time around people break these rules, I think we should be a little bit British, show some common sense and I am sure he won't do it again, he has apologised."

The former health secretary stressed it was ultimately "a matter for police".

08:13 AM

Jeremy Corbyn should pay fine for 'wrong' rule of six breach, says Labour shadow minister

A shadow minister has said Jeremy Corbyn should pay a fine for breaking the rule of six saying she is "disappointed" in her former boss and that what he did was "wrong".

Rosena Allin-Khan, the shadow minister for mental health, told Sky News: "It is absolutely inexcusable for people to break the rules. The rules apply to everyone

"Rightly, he should be paying the fine.

"He should be fined. Everybody should be fined who breaks the rules," she added. "That also includes government advisers and the parents of the Prime Minister."

The Tooting MP who is also a medical doctor said she had "seen the devastation" caused by the virus, saying everyone has a "responsibility" to protect themselves and each other.

Politicians had an additional responsibility to "lead by example", she added.

Rosena Allin-Khan - Rii Schroer

08:01 AM

Liverpool lockdown announcement expected at 10:30am today

George Eustice said this morning that no decisions had been taken regarding a Liverpool lockdown - but it looks like we are going to hear very soon indeed.

Matt Hancock had been expected to respond to an urgent question about the hospitality curfew from 10:30 - however this has been changed to a ministerial statement.

BREAKING: my urgent question on the #10pm #curfew will now be a government statement. Have they seen the light? Will they #ScrapTheCurfew ? I hope so - lives and livelihoods depend on it #CallTimeOnTheCurfew #StAlbans  Daisy Cooper MP  (@libdemdaisy) October 1, 2020

Despite Lib Dem MP Daisy Cooper's hope that the statement will be about scrapping the curfew, it seems far more likely the Health Secretary is about to impose more restrictions.

07:57 AM

UK on course for only fraction of Covid-19 cases projected by government scientists

If current rates of confirmed Covid-19 infections continue, the UK is on course for around 11,000 new cases a day by mid-October - a fraction of a projection made by the Government's chief scientists last week, Telegraph analysis has found.

Yet the latest data also shows over 10 million people live in areas where the number of new coronavirus cases confirmed each day has already risen faster than the rate used in the scientists' scenario.

My colleagues Dominic Gilbert and Alex Clark have been crunching the numbers.

Here's what they have found.

07:51 AM

Have your say on: Stanley and Jeremy's rule breaking

Two high profile men are in the papers this morning for having broken the rules - but it's not clear yet whether they will be fined.

Stanley Johnson was pictured in a shop without a face mask, while Jeremy Corbyn attended a dinner party for nine people, in breach of the rule of six.

Both men have apologised - but their actions now carry a penalty of 200.

Should they be made an example of and told to pay a fine? Or are we at the top of a slippery slope of snitching? Have your say in the poll below.

07:45 AM

Police will take 'proportionate and pragmatic' response to Stanley Johnson and Jeremy Corbyn's rule-breaking

The police will decide if Stanley Johnson should be fined after he was pictured in a shop without a face mask, George Eustice has said.

Jeremy Corbyn was also pictured breaking the rules, by attending a dinner party with eight other people.

The Environment Secretary stressed that punishments should only be handed out to those showing a "willful and reckless" disregard for the restrictions regarding face coverings.

He told Radio 4's Today programme: "The police will decide what approach they should take but the appropriate response is to act in a proportionate and pragmatic way.

"They are only using fines as a last resort where you have willful and reckless disobedience of the regulations we have in place.

"As a general rule, whether it is on public transport or in other venues, it will be a matter of either directing people to comply with the rules or to leave the premises or to leave public transport and that is the approach that is working most effectively.

"I think in both these cases, the [former] leader of the Opposition and the Prime Minister's father, in both cases they have admitted to making an error and have apologised for doing so."

Jeremy Corbyn was pictured at a dinner party for nine people - PA

07:40 AM

UK must deter migrants - but needs a more 'civilised' system than Australia, says Tory MP

The Home Office was "completely right" to look at ways of deterring asylum seekers from coming to the UK but any solution must be "civilised", a Kent MP has said.

Adam Holloway, the Conservative MP for Gravesham, said there was a "humanitarian duty to make sure people don't make these extremely dangerous journeys".

But he claimed the only way to do that was to "send out a message around the world that if you get to Europe or you get to Britain, you're unlikely to stay there".

He added: "You've got to have some sort of deterrent, you can't just know that you get to Britain, you'll be put in a hotel, you'll eventually be housed and you'll probably end up staying here."

However "talk of oil rigs and Moldova and Papua New Guinea, to me, is somewhat bizarre", he added.

"You're determined for me to say it is a great idea to put people on islands - I'm not saying that.

"The Home Office is completely right to look at other options so there is some sort of deterrent but not the Australian model where you have poor welfare standards and everything else.

"We've got to find a civilised version of that."

A migrant family is taken into port after being intercepted by Border Force officials in the English Channel - Getty

07:32 AM

Local lockdowns cannot be blocked by MPs, minister confirms

MPs will not be able to stop local lockdowns, but will have "debates and votes" on any "further major changes", a Cabinet minister has confirmed.

A brewing revolt was called off yesterday after the Government agreed a concession with rebel leader Sir Graham Brady, giving Parliament a vote on any further national lockdown.

"But when it comes to local lockdowns there are powers there in the Coronavirus Act that was passed earlier this year to enable those targeted measures to happen, and to happen quickly," said George Eustice.

"Throughout this had we have had to be able to act expeditiously with an evolving situation," he added. "We can't wait for there to be long deliberation on these things - we need the powers to act quickly."

07:24 AM

Minister insists local lockdowns are not 'Hotel California' traps

George Eustice has insisted that some areas under local lockdown have been able to come out, as the Government fends off criticisms that targeted restrictions end up as kind of "Hotel California".

Yesterday Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer claimed Luton was the only town to have emerged from a local lockdown - something which Boris Johnson did not dispute.

However this morning his Environment Secretary stressed that there were "one or two others in the northern area" who also saw a reduction in measures.

He told the Today programme: "They didn't come fully out but were able to start easing those restrictions."

Mr Eustice added: "The short answer is they will be able to come out of local lockdowns once the infection rate in those areas get back more in line with the national trend."

07:20 AM

No decision taken on Liverpool yet, says Cabinet minister

George Eustice has said a decision had not yet been made on further coronavirus restrictions being put in place in Merseyside.

"I know that there are some discussions, I understand, that are going on about the situation in Liverpool, but no decisions have been taken yet," he told BBC Breakfast.

"It's not really possible for me to say what they may or may not do since I think there's currently dialogue between health officials and the local council there," the Environment Secretary added.

When pressed further, he added: "My understanding is a decision hasn't been made, but I am aware that discussions have been taking place about what further restrictions might be needed, I think particularly around Merseyside and Liverpool."

07:18 AM

Liverpool Metro Mayor urges Government to avoid 'Hotel California' lockdowns

The Metro Mayor of Liverpool has urged the Government against creating a "Hotel California" lockdown "where you can never check out" as the city faces a new set of restrictions.

Steve Rotheram told Radio 4's Today programme there was "frustration" at the lack of engagement from the Government, pointing to the fact that he and Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham had been forced to "go to the press and media to get the data in the first place because the Government wouldn't share that with us".

He added: "When we were allowed to see our own data sets we were able to interrogate it and saw some trends that were worrying.

"All the areas that have had had further restrictions find it difficult to come out. We understand what they need to do but what is the road map.

"We don't want to be in Hotel California where you can never check out."

07:11 AM

Local lockdowns 'containing' national transmission, says Jeremy Hunt

Local lockdowns may be preventing the current second wave of infections from taking hold across the country, Jeremy Hunt has said.

A study of more than 80,000 suggest that infections increased substantially across the country last month, before the R Rate fell to around 1.1, suggesting the growth of infection may be slowing. It is estimated 1 in 200 people in England were infected with the virus, reinforcing the need to remain vigilant.

The former health secretary told BBC Radio 4's Today programme said the findings gave "hope after a difficult few months" - but people must not rest on their laurels.

"Acting early, decisively, quickly, is actually the best way to contain the spread of the virus and that's what I think Chris Whitty and the Prime Minister are saying," he said.

"One of the things that is often not noted about Italy was the successful way in which they managed to contain the outbreak of the virus in northern Italy, in Lombardy, and avoid it spreading to the rest of the country.

"Now, we didn't manage to do that first time round but it just may be that these local lockdowns, although we haven't seen a big reduction in transmission within those areas, they may just have contained it and stopped it from becoming the national outbreak that we had before."

07:08 AM

Test NHS staff in hotspots to reduce preventable deaths, says Jeremy Hunt

Jeremy Hunt has renewed his plea for regular testing for NHS staff in order to reduce preventable deaths.

Speaking to BBC Radio 4's Today programme, the Commons Health Committee chairman and former health secretary said: "I am puzzled and I know there are some capacity issues.

"(Professor) Chris Whitty actually moved towards this position somewhat when he said in July that he did agree with routine testing of asymptomatic NHS staff in hotspot areas - I would like it to be everywhere, but he accepted it was the right thing to do in areas where there is growth.

"But that is not happening.

"Some of those hospitals are trying really hard to test all their staff using their own laboratories but to do that on a weekly basis, they need support from NHS Test and Trace, they need additional reagents and what we really need is for the Government to say, 'You need to make this happen at least in areas where there is high prevalence and we will help you if you can't do it yourself'."

06:51 AM

UK fishing deal with Norway 'about acceptable' says NFFO

A transition period of three years to allow fishing communities in Europe to adjust to a change in how much they can catch in British waters would be "about acceptable", according to the National Federation of Fishermen's Organisations (NFFO).

As the Telegraph reported this morning, the UK has offered a fisheries adjustment period as part of a concession in the post-Brexit trade talks with the European Union in a bid to secure a deal.

Chief executive Barrie Deas told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "I think three years is about acceptable, within this context, as long as we see movement in equal steps.

"We need to see an improvement from day one.

"But I think three years could be acceptable. Anything longer, I think, would be a stretch."

Mr Deas said he did not think the Government was preparing to concede in the talks with Brussels in a way that would be difficult for UK fishermen to accept, adding: "I don't have that expectation.

"I think fishing is right at the top of the priorities for the UK, so there might be some room for compromise around the edges, but I think on the fundamentals the UK is absolutely adamant that what we have to have is something very similar to the Norway agreement."

06:02 AM

Government must focus on Covid's economic impact, says No 10 ally

A No 10 ally has called on Boris Johnson's Government to change its coronavirus strategy and focus more on the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic, amid mounting criticism over the Government's handling of the crisis.

James Frayne, who is close to Mr Johnson's chief adviser, Dominic Cummings, and until recently carried out focus group research for the Cabinet Office, accused the Government of "dicing with political death in recent times" and warned that Downing Street's draconian approach "will come back to haunt them in calmer times".

MPs spent Wednesday widely circulating Mr Frayne's article for the Conservative Home website, which urged Number 10 to "downgrade scientists".

It also called on the Government and "unleash" Rishi Sunak, the Chancellor, to be "honest with the public" about the risks to the economy and jobs caused by Covid-19.
The new UCF co-developed algorithm can accurately identify COVID-19 cases, as well as distinguish them from influenza.

A University of Central Florida researcher is part of a new study showing that artificial intelligence can be nearly as accurate as a physician in diagnosing COVID-19 in the lungs.

The study, recently published in Nature Communications, shows the new technique can also overcome some of the challenges of current testing.

Researchers demonstrated that an AI algorithm could be trained to classify COVID-19 pneumonia in computed tomography (CT) scans with up to 90 percent accuracy, as well as correctly identify positive cases 84 percent of the time and negative cases 93 percent of the time.

CT scans offer a deeper insight into COVID-19 diagnosis and progression as compared to the often-used reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, or RT-PCR, tests. These tests have high false negative rates, delays in processing and other challenges.

Another benefit to CT scans is that they can detect COVID-19 in people without symptoms, in those who have early symptoms, during the height of the disease and after symptoms resolve.

However, CT is not always recommended as a diagnostic tool for COVID-19 because the disease often looks similar to influenza-associated pneumonias on the scans.

The new UCF co-developed algorithm can overcome this problem by accurately identifying COVID-19 cases, as well as distinguishing them from influenza, thus serving as a great potential aid for physicians, says Ulas Bagci, an assistant professor in UCF's Department of Computer Science.

Bagci was a co-author of the study and helped lead the research.

We demonstrated that a deep learning-based AI approach can serve as a standardized and objective tool to assist healthcare systems as well as patients. It can be used as a complementary test tool in very specific limited populations, and it can be used rapidly and at large scale in the unfortunate event of a recurrent outbreak." Ulas Bagci, Assistant Professor in UCF's Department of Computer Science

Bagci is an expert in developing AI to assist physicians, including using it to detect pancreatic and lung cancers in CT scans.

He also has two large, National Institutes of Health grants exploring these topics, including $2.5 million for using deep learning to examine pancreatic cystic tumors and more than $2 million to study the use of artificial intelligence for lung cancer screening and diagnosis.

To perform the study, the researchers trained a computer algorithm to recognize COVID-19 in lung CT scans of 1,280 multinational patients from China, Japan and Italy.

Then they tested the algorithm on CT scans of 1,337 patients with lung diseases ranging from COVID-19 to cancer and non-COVID pneumonia.

When they compared the computer's diagnoses with ones confirmed by physicians, they found that the algorithm was extremely proficient in accurately diagnosing COVID-19 pneumonia in the lungs and distinguishing it from other diseases, especially when examining CT scans in the early stages of disease progression.

"We showed that robust AI models can achieve up to 90 percent accuracy in independent test populations, maintain high specificity in non-COVID-19 related pneumonias, and demonstrate sufficient generalizability to unseen patient populations and centers," Bagci says.

The UCF researcher is a longtime collaborator with study co-authors Baris Turkbey and Bradford J. Wood. Turkbey is an associate research physician at the NIH's National Cancer Institute Molecular Imaging Branch, and Wood is the director of NIH's Center for Interventional Oncology and chief of interventional radiology with NIH's Clinical Center.
HONG KONG  One year ago, Chinas National Day on Oct. 1 was a day of protest and turmoil in Hong Kong. Demonstrators set fires and blockaded streets. The police responded with tear gas and pepper spray. One officer shot a young demonstrator with a live bullet.

The holiday on Thursday once again brought protesters to the streets of Hong Kong. This time, however, their numbers were far smaller, and they were smothered by thousands of police officers.

The police corralled and searched dozens of people at a time, effectively quashing all but the briefest expressions of dissent. Officers even stood guard near Lion Rock, a rugged granite outcrop where protesters have often draped large pro-democracy banners, and took down identification numbers of activists who had hiked up to the peak and shouted slogans.

The stark contrast from one year to the next shows how the Hong Kong authorities have used social distancing rules, an overwhelming police presence and a sweeping national security law imposed on the city by Beijing at the end of June to silence pro-democracy rallies. Public discontent remains high in Hong Kong, but displaying it is increasingly risky.
Google has announced the Pixel 5 and the Pixel 4a 5G during its Launch Night In hardware event. There were absolutely no hardware surprises as we pretty much knew everything beforehand, thanks to all the leaks and the rumours. But if there's one thing that we like from the array of new features, then it is probably the new 'Hold For Me' feature.

As you've probably already guessed it by the title, this new feature takes advantage of the Google Assistant and the 'Duplex' feature that was introduced earlier. In this case, the Google Assistant will essentially monitor your phone calls after you've been placed on hold.

A water-resistant phone that creates quite a splash. The new #Pixel5 has 8 GB of RAM and wireless and reverse wireless charging to use with your Pixel Stand or to charge your Pixel Buds on-the-go.https://t.co/YYzCyiRlDR #LaunchNightIn pic.twitter.com/JB9NVMeWvK  Made By Google (@madebygoogle) September 30, 2020

And as soon as there's a person on the other side ready to talk to you again, Google Assistant will then alert you about the same. This is an incredible feature and we see how this can be super useful for everyone in many ways.

We can already see this working in our favour when we're stuck on those long waiting lines, having to listen to the hold music for a long time. Well, this new feature is made just for that. This feature will be available to the Pixel 5 and the Pixel 4a 5G users first, but it looks like other Pixel phones will also get it in the future.

 Google

That being said, we're not entirely sure if/when this feature will come to India. It's limited to the US now, so let's hope for the best.


Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale has announced that he would meet the family of the Hathras gang rape victim in Uttar Pradesh (UP) on Friday.

Athawale made the statement after facing flak for seeking justice only for actors while neglecting the Hathras victim.

On Wednesday, Athawale announced that his Republican Party of India (RPI) will also hold protests at Azad Maidan against the Hathras incident.

I will meet the family of the victim on Friday and also meet (UP) Governor Anandiben Patel and chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday and demand a fast track court trial in the case, the minister said.

The minister was criticised after he visited Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshiyari on Tuesday along with an actor who had accused filmmaker Anurag Kashyap of sexual assault but remained silent on the Hathras victim, who succumbed to her injuries after being tortured by four men. Athawale had also supported actor Kangana Ranaut, who launched a tirade against the Shiv Sena. The minister said his party will offer security to Ranaut and also met Koshyari to protest against the demolition of the actors office by the Mumbai civic body and demanded compensation for her.

The Shiv Sena had then hit out at Athawale and said that he was more concerned about getting justice for actors instead of common people.

Apart from political rivals, he also faced criticism from on social media after citizens questioned the priorities of the Union minister and said he was more interested in fighting for celebrities instead of Dalits.

Political observers opine that the Dalit leadership has bowed before the major political parties. Athawale knows that celebrities would attract more publicity for him than taking up the cause of Dalits and hence he favours them, said political analyst Hemant Desai.

On September 14, the 19-year-old from Hathras district was allegedly attacked and raped in a field near her home by four men. Details of the barbaric assault emerged last week. The woman was shifted to Delhis Safdarjung Hospital where she passed away on Tuesday.

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The nomination of federal appeals Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court centers on a debate over her conservative views on abortion, guns and health care.

In the background, the FBI is reviewing the Notre Dame Law School professors life as part of a vetting process that was thrust into the spotlight two years ago during the rocky Senate hearings preceding the confirmation of Associate Justice Brett Kavanaugh.

After women accused Kavanaugh of sexual assault, which he denied, President Donald Trump ordered the FBI to reopen its background inquiry. Trump allowed just a week to complete the work, prompting criticism from Democrats that the process was tilted in favor of the nominee.

This time, an expedited confirmation schedule  hearings are scheduled to start Oct. 12 before the Senate Judiciary Committee  has pushed the FBI inquiry into high gear.

Late Wednesday, California Sen. Dianne Feinstein, the Judiciary Committee's ranking Democrat, objected to the accelerated confirmation timeline, asserting in part that it jeopardized the "FBI's ability to thoroughly vet the nominee."

President Donald Trump announces Judge Amy Coney Barrett as his U.S. Supreme Court nominee on Sept. 18 in Washington.

The timeline for consideration of Judge Barretts nomination is incompatible with the Senates constitutional role," Feinstein wrote to committee Chairman Lindsey Graham, R-S.C. "We again urge you to delay consideration of this nomination until after the presidential inauguration. The Senate and the American public deserve a deliberative, thorough process, and this falls far short.

Confirmation hearing prep: Trump Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett meets with McConnell, top Republican senators

Amy Coney Barrett: Talented judge, popular professor brings solid conservative credentials

People of Praise: Supreme Court nominee Amy Barrett's ties to faith group draw questions about its treatment of women

The FBI declined to comment on the status of its inquiry, which can be an intrusive element of the confirmation process.

Story continues

In a statement, the FBI described its role as "a fact-finder": It provides the results of the inquiry and does not make recommendations about the qualifications or fitness of nominees.

"I imagine that the (FBI's) Indianapolis Division is a really busy place right about now," former agent Jim Davis said, referring to the bureau's main office in Barrett's home state. Davis has participated in dozens of nominee inquiries.

"A lot of work is put into these investigations," he said, "and everybody knows this is going to get a lot of attention."

What is the scope of the FBI's inquiry?

The inquiries, known as special investigations or "spins," delve into the personal backgrounds of nominees to the Supreme Court and top posts in a presidential administration.

The White House sets the scope of the background investigation, the FBI said. The time needed to complete a review depends largely on the White House's direction and the life experience of the nominee.

Among the considerations: the number of places the nominee has lived (those neighborhoods are routinely canvassed by investigators), her financial history and foreign travel.

The reviews are not criminal investigations, but they can highlight conduct that may open nominees to additional scrutiny.

Acting Pentagon chief Patrick Shanahan, whom Trump had planned to formally nominate to the post, resigned last year shortly after USA TODAY reported that the FBI investigated a violent encounter with his then-wife in 2010.

Shanahan out: Acting Defense Secretary Pat Shanahan says he will resign after scrutiny over 2010 domestic fight

"Depending on the nominee, these can be pretty wide-ranging investigations," Davis said. "They typically go everywhere they have ever lived."

In Barrett's case, investigators are not starting from scratch.

Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett meets with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., on Capitol Hill in Washington on Sept. 29. Confirmation hearings will start Oct. 12.

Three years ago, Barrett was the subject of a background investigation for her nomination and subsequent confirmation to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit.

Barrett's Senate confirmation hearing for the appellate court largely focused on her legal philosophy, from capital punishment to abortion, and whether her Catholic faith would unduly influence her decisions. (She vowed to follow Supreme Court precedent.)

The closest lawmakers came to reviewing Barrett's personal conduct was when then-Sen. Al Franken, D-Minn., pressed her on her acceptance of speaking fees for addressing a group sponsored by the Alliance Defending Freedom, designated by the Southern Poverty Law Center as an anti-LGBT group.

ADF spokesman Jeremy Tedesco cast the Southern Poverty Law Center as a "once respected civil rights organization" that has "destroyed its own credibility because of its blatant partisan agenda..."

What do investigators look for?

Oliver "Buck" Revell, a former FBI associate deputy director, said investigators would probably begin Barrett's examination where the previous review left off in 2017.

"You really don't have to go all the way back, given the substantive amount of data that's already there," Revell said. "It's not like you are starting with a totally new nominee."

Investigators will probably focus on Barrett's public writings in the past three years, any social media activity and speeches.

"This will be a 24/7 effort until it's complete," Revell said.

Subjects of these inquiries are typically interviewed shortly after their nomination is announced. Davis said those meetings often produce leads that direct the course of the investigation, which can require interviews of 50 to 100 people.

"The central question to be answered in these things is whether derogatory information is found," Davis said. "If so, that certainly is highlighted. If not, that is the finding in the final report."

Who can read the FBI's report?

Since the president makes the nomination, the White House is the primary client, though the findings are shared with the Senate panel weighing the nominee's confirmation.

If lawmakers call for additional investigation, as they did in Kavanaugh's case, their requests go through the White House, which has the discretion to expand the inquiry.

During his time at the FBI, Revell said, he had a number of interactions with then-Sen. Sam Nunn, D-Ga., who served as chairman of the powerful Senate Armed Services Committee, which weighs the nominations of Pentagon officials.

James Mattis, center, nominee for secretary of defense, arrives with former senator Sam Nunn, left, and former senator William Cohen on Jan. 12, 2017, before the start of his confirmation hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee.

"He was very involved; he asked a lot of questions and took his job seriously," Revell recalled.

Even a Senate chairman such as Nunn needed the approval of the White House to request that the FBI dig more into a nominee's background. "Sometimes," Revell said, "we had to negotiate."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Amy Barrett: Tight schedule creates urgency for FBI background check
Police have seized a cache of "military-style" guns and warned of further arrests as they clamp down on a deadly gang war that has spilt over into suburban streets in south-west Sydney.

An AR-15 assault rifle, two MAC-10 machine pistols and hundreds of rounds of ammunition were seized in Old Guildford on Wednesday as part of an investigation into targeted shootings in public places.

A number of guns were allegedly seized in a police raid on a home in Old Guildford. Credit:NSW Police

A 27-year-old man, Emad Mahfoud, was arrested and charged following the early morning raid  a joint operation between NSW Police and the Australian Federal Police. Another raid at a home in Yagoona in Sydney's south-west yielded $110,000 cash.

Police are investigating whether the weapons seized have been used in the shootings, which they said are part of "cycles of revenge" stemming from business conflicts.
Pakistani farmer Arshad Mehmood has been filled with pride since his son stabbed two people outside the former offices of satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo in Paris last week, in the latest attack to expose the violent consequences of blasphemy allegations.

Zaheer Hassan Mehmood, who was born in Pakistan, has confessed to the attack, saying he was motivated by the magazine's recent republication of cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed, which are proscribed in Islam.

"In my opinion, what he did was very good," Arshad told AFP.

The republication, marking the start of the trial over a deadly 2015 attack on the magazine's previous premises, sparked condemnation across the Islamic world and protests throughout Pakistan.

The younger Mehmood has since been charged with "attempted murder with relation to a terrorist enterprise".

But back in his rural village of Kothli Qazi in Punjab province, his family and neighbours are heralding him as a defender of the Islamic faith.

"The person who kills those who disrespect the prophet goes to heaven, and his whole family goes to heaven," Arshad said.

"Because of this, I feel very good that my son did such a good deed."

The assailant's mother Rukhsana Begum added that her son had told the family about the attacks in advance, and had asked for their prayers.

"He told us that on Friday after the Friday prayers he would do it. He also called one of his friends and told him that he saw the holy prophet in his dream and he will go and do this," said Begum.

Blasphemy is a sensitive issue in ultra-conservative Pakistan, where anyone deemed to have insulted Islam or Islamic figures can face the death penalty.

Prayer leaders and political parties across the country frequently rally around the issue, while politicians have been assassinated, European countries threatened with nuclear annihilation, and students lynched over blasphemy allegations.

Prime Minister Imran Khan has also participated in the crusade.

In a speech to the UN General Assembly that was broadcast on the day of the latest attack -- but recorded beforehand -- he blasted Charlie Hebdo for re-running the cartoons, saying "wilful provocations" should be "universally outlawed".

Omar Waraich, deputy South Asia director at Amnesty International, noted a "cultural gap" fuelling the fury.

"In France you have the tradition of satirising religion and people not feeling any offence for it," he said. "Whereas for many Pakistanis... any insult to the prophet is considered the most grievous insult there is and is perceived to be more harmful than violence itself."

The stabbing came just three weeks into a trial in Paris of the suspected accomplices to the 2015 attacks, which included the Charlie Hebdo attack, the killing of a policewoman, and a hostage-taking at a Jewish supermarket which claimed four lives.

Back in Kothli Qazi, the latest attack triggered celebrations, Arshad Mehmood said, with neighbours flocking to their home to congratulate the family.

"The whole village is extremely proud of what he's done," said neighbour Haji Qaiser.

"Wherever you go, they are talking about it."
In any conflict with China, the unmanned BrahMos could be advantageously used in the opening stages for pinpoint strikes on heavily defended targets -- such as air bases, headquarters, key roads and railways or logistics dumps -- which are too dangerous for manned fighter aircraft to attack.

Ajai Shukla reports.

The India-Russian joint venture firm BrahMos Aerospace on Wednesday, September 30, successfully tested an extended range version of the BrahMos cruise missile.

While the existing version of the missile has a maximum range of 290 kilometres, the BrahMos fired on Wednesday struck a target more than 400 km away.

Since the JV was founded in 1998 to develop, manufacture and market the BrahMos cruise missile, India and Russia have adhered to the Missile Technology Control Regime, which prohibits the transfer of missiles, or missile technology, with ranges beyond 300 km to non-member states.

However, with India having become a MTCR member country in 2016, New Delhi is less stringently bound by technology transfer rules.

Even so, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said nothing about breaching the 300-km range barrier, while tweeting his acknowledgement 'for the successful flight testing of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile with indigenous booster and air frame (to the) designated range'.

The BrahMos is regarded as one of the world's premier cruise missiles, with its supersonic speed of 2.8 Mach (almost 3,000 kmph) making it extremely difficult for enemy fighters to intercept and shoot down.

Conventional cruise missiles, such as the US military's Tomahawk, travel at about 890 kmph, a low speed at which supersonic fighters can overtake them.

While the current test was restricted to 400 km, it is a signal that the BrahMos could be built for far longer ranges in the future, limited only by its fuel carriage.

In any conflict with China, the unmanned BrahMos could be advantageously used in the opening stages for pinpoint strikes on heavily defended targets -- such as air bases, headquarters, key roads and railways or logistics dumps -- which are too dangerous for manned fighter aircraft to attack.

Through incremental improvement and progressive testing, the BrahMos has become a key element of the Indian military's strike power.

It is employed by all three services, and launched from all four dimensions -- from ground launchers, aircraft, surface warships and submarines.

The Indian Army operates four BrahMos regiments, including missiles programmed for 'steep dive' attacks. These skim over high mountain ridgelines before diving steeply onto their target on the valley floor.

Such capabilities do not come cheap. Each BrahMos regiment, which is a fully mobile entity with a command post, four missile-launcher vehicles and several missile carriers to carry its complement of 90 missiles, costs around Rs 2,000 crore (Rs 20 billion).

The army is on track to buy two more BrahMos regiments. With the range of the BrahMos now being extended, it is likely that the 5th and 6th BrahMos regiments would be equipped with the longer-range missiles.

Defence industry analysts say that each BrahMos missile costs around Rs 15 crore (Rs 150 million), about the same as the cost of a Tomahawk.

At that price, partner countries such as Vietnam, to which New Delhi and Moscow have agreed to offer the BrahMos, are unable to afford it.

The Indian Air Force is also committed to the BrahMos, having based a full Sukhoi-30MKI squadron, equipped with the BrahMos air-launched cruise missile, at Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. From this peninsular base, the long-range Sukhoi fighters can strike targets in three directions -- the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal and the northern Indian Ocean.

The integration of the Sukhoi-30MKI with the BrahMos allows the IAF to strike targets up to 3,000 km away. In an exercise in May 2019, Sukhoi-30s attacked a target 3,000 km away, refuelling on their way out and a second time on their way back to Thanjavur.

The Indian Navy has also adopted the BrahMos as its standard ship-launched cruise missile. All the navy's frigates and destroyers are now being built to carry the BrahMos in vertical-launch canisters -- eight missiles in each frigate and 16 in each destroyer.

BrahMos is already carried by the indigenous Project 15B destroyers, and is being integrated into the Talwar-class frigates being built in Russia.

BrahMos Aerospace has also offered its missile for fitment into the navy's next six submarines that are proposed to be built under Project 75-I.

In March 2013, a BrahMos was fired from an underwater pontoon, validating it as a submarine launched cruise missile.

BrahMos Aerospace was incorporated through an Indo-Russian Inter-Government Agreement, and is named after India's Brahmaputra and Russia's Moskva rivers. It is 50.5 per cent owned by India and 49.5 per cent by Russia, the then MoD had told Parliament on May 9, 2007.

According to the MoD, the share capital of BrahMos Aerospace was $250 million initially. This was increased by $50 million to cover the cost of developing the air-launched version of the missile.

New Delhi's contribution of a little over $150 million includes Rs 634 crore (Rs 6.34 billion) contributed by the military and Rs 370 crore (Rs 3.7 billion) contributed by the Defence R&D Organisation.
The Nigerian-born jurist, philosopher and economic ethicist is a vocal advocate for human rights and religious freedom across the African continent. He joins the advocacy department led by CSI's International President, Dr John Eibner, on 1 October 2020 as Senior Research Fellow for Sub-Saharan Africa.

Dr Ogbunwezeh's appointment comes as CSI steps up its advocacy work in the region. In January 2020 CSI issued a genocide warning for Nigeria in response to a rising tide of violence directed against Christians and others classified as 'infidels' by Islamist militants in the country's north and Middle Belt regions.

The twin evils of Boko Haram and the Fulani militias have claimed at least 6,000 Christian lives in Nigeria since 2015, with 1,400 recorded deaths in the first seven months of 2020 alone. Rising jihadist violence threatens to destabilise not just Nigeria but western Africa as a whole, and requires urgent action from the international community.

"CSI is pleased indeed to have Dr Ogbunwezeh on our staff," commented Dr Eibner. "He will add great energy, expertise and know-how to CSI's international efforts to prevent genocide and help victims of sectarian-linked atrocity crimes, especially in Nigeria and surrounding African states."

Dr Ogbunwezeh studied philosophy and law in Enugu, Nigeria. He has a bachelor's degree from the Pontifical Urban University in Rome, Italy, and a doctorate in social ethics from the Goethe University in Frankfurt, Germany, for which he received the Konrad Adenauer Award for gifted students.

Dr Ogbunwezeh has led the ISHR Africa Department since 2009 and has published articles in a number of academic journals and magazines. He is the author of the book Towards an Ethical-ecological Assessment of Companies in Nigeria (2012).

In addition, Dr Ogbunwezeh is a regular contributor to the Nigeria Report website  www.nigeria-report.org  launched by CSI in 2019 to provide news and a platform for discussion about ways to end the sectarian and ethnic violence in Nigeria.

For more information, please contact: Joel Veldkamp | [email protected]

SOURCE Christian Solidarity International (CSI)

Related Links

http://www.csi-int.org


Ahmedabad: Former Union minister Bharatsinh Solanki, who tested positive for coronavirus in June this year, was discharged on Thursday after being in hospital for 101 days. Talking to mediapersons after being discharged, the 66-year-old Congress leader thanked doctors of a city-based private hospital, where he was undergoing treatment, for saving his life and providing him good medical care.

Solanki, a resident of Borsad town in Gujarats Anand district, was first admitted to a hospital in Vadodara on June 22. After his condition deteriorated, he was shifted to CIMS Hospital in Ahmedabad on June 30. I was overconfident and under the impression that nothing would happen to me. That is why I kept meeting people and did not take precautions. I urge people not to take coronavirus lightly. Please wear mask, because that is better than getting hospitalised," Solanki said.

He said his recovery despite several complications is nothing short of a miracle".

Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor
Phil Pascal of Las Vegas prays at a memorial for his college classmate Kurt Andras Reinhold, who was killed in San Clemente. (Los Angeles Times)

To the editor: There is more to the death of Kurt Andras Reinhold in San Clemente on Sept. 23 than a story of a Black man senselessly killed by police.

In fact, police should not have it as their responsibility to handle mentally ill people who are acting dangerously. As a society, we don't help these people, but rather continually impede their progress toward a healthy life.

We have a system that gives people the "right" to be mentally ill and live on the streets. They have the right to refuse treatment unless they are a danger to themselves or others. This standard is stringent and does not include hallucinating or showing other signs of mental illness in public.

When these people harm others, it becomes a criminal matter. There is no winning, because we do not want to interfere with these people's personal liberty, and they are free to be mentally ill.

Yet, we forget that people with severe mental illness may not be making rational decisions. After all, no child says, "When I grown up, I want to be mentally ill."

Christine Beirne, Ojai

..

To the editor: I was very upset to read that once again, a police officer is claiming that the man he killed had taken his gun. This should never be an excuse, since it is unprovable.

All officers use some variety of a security holster. One cannot simply grab and draw an officer's gun. One or more positive actions are needed to release the gun.

It is difficult to believe that a man lying on the ground with two or more officers on him would be able to reach up and know how to release an officer's holstered weapon and then use it.

Alex Magdaleno, Camarillo

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
New Delhi, Oct 1 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a chargesheet against founder of banned terror outfits like Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT), Jamaat-Ud-Dawa (JuD) and Falah-i-Insaniyat Foundation Hafiz Saeed, his deputy Shahid Mehmood, Mohammad Salman, Dubai-based Pakistani Mohammad Kamran and Mohammad Salim alias Mama, a Delhi-based hawala operator in a terror funding case.

An ED official said that the agency filed a chargesheet against them under Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 in the terror funding case. The ED registered a case on the basis of the chargesheet filed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) against Salman, Salim and Kamran under several sections of the IPC and the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act. The official said that during the probe it was revealed that funds were re-routed from Pakistan to Dubai and further to India through hawala channels. "Salman was the recipient of funds sent by Kamran and his associates Abdul Aziz Behlim and Arif Gulambashir Dharampuria, in Dubai," the official said.

The ED seized incriminating documents from the house of Salman, Salim and Dharampuria during the searches conducted by NIA and email correspondence reflect these hawala transactions by Mohammad Uzair to Kamran, on the instructions of Salman. "With respect to the inflow of funds from Dubai, the quantum of funds that Salman was receiving from Kamran and his associates in Dubai, through hawala channels, has been quantified on the basis of emails, receipts and registers maintained by accused," the official said.

The official further said that Salman used the funds received from abroad for construction of Masjid at Uttawar in Haryana's Palwal and marriages of poor girls in and around area of village Uttawar.

"ED identified properties to the tune of Rs 4.69 crore amassed through the proceeds of crime. Three immovable property of accused Salman, located in New Delhi, having a value of Rs 73.12 lakh has been attached by the ED," it said.

Salman and Salim are currently under judicial custody. According to the NIA, Salman was found to be involved in receiving funds from FIF operators and his associates through illegally operated hawala channel. FIF is a Pakistan-based terror organisation established by Jamat-ud-Dawa. It was founded by Hafiz Saeed, the head of LeT and JuD. Falah-i-Insaniyat foundation has been designated as terrorist organisation by the United Nations on March 14, 2012. Hafiz Saeed was also designated as global terrorist by the UN.

NIA has claimed that the FIF is nothing but a front organisation of JuD and LeT that was formed to evade security and sanctions. The India government has designated FIF as a terrorist organisation in August 2016. As such, LeT seeks to raise funds and build network through FIF for further terror activities.
The Texas Heart Medical Group, a new nonprofit physicians group from the Texas Heart Institute, is open for business starting Thursday in the Texas Medical Center.

The institute, established in Houston in 1962 by cardiac surgeon Denton Cooley, has historically focused on research and education programs. The 12 physicians joining the medical group are doctors who have worked with patients at affiliated hospitals in Houston, but this will be the first time the Texas Heart Institute directly offers clinical care for patients.

We believe this will further more dollars to be advanced toward research and medical education, said Howard Schramm, the president of the Texas Heart Medical Group.

Schramm said the demand for a physicians group specializing in the heart is already large in Houston, but the Texas Heart Institutes name, known throughout the country and worldwide, will boost the clinics profile.

Eric Wade, chair of the Texas Heart Institute board of trustees, said the plan to form the group has been in the works for years. The medical group plans to hire surgeons and physicians who have certain cardiovascular specialties in the future.

ON HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM: Houstons health care costs above national average

TMC was a destination place for medicine for a long time, Wade said. We dont want to be just a good provider of cardiovascular services, we want to be a preeminent provider. We want to be the place you think of when you need services.

A full list of insurers who count the Texas Heart Medical Group in-network will be available on the groups site; Schramm said major carriers such as UnitedHealthcare, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas and Cigna have agreements in place with the group.

Texas Heart Medical Group will be located in the St. Lukes Medical Tower at 6624 Fannin Street.

gwendolyn.wu@chron.com

twitter.com/gwendolynawu
Alabama governor Kay Ivey has apologized to a survivor of the 1963 KKK bombing, who is now seeking restitution from the state. (AP)

Alabama Gov Kay Ivey has extended a long-awaited apology to Sarah Collins Rudolph, a survivor of the 1963 Birmingham church bombing.

Ms Collins Rudolph was 12 years old when members of the Ku Klux Klan planted a bomb at the 16th Street Baptist Church, setting off an explosion that killed four other young Black girls, including her sister. Although she survived, Ms Collins Rudolph, who was called the "fifth little girl," lost her right eye and was hospitalized for two months after the attack.

In her letter to Ms Collins Rudolph's attorneys, Ms Ivey tried to make amends for the hateful attack, acknowledging that the survivor and the rest of the victims' families "suffered an egregious injustice that has yielded untold pain and suffering over the ensuing decades.

"For that," the Republican governor added, "they most certainly deserve a sincere, heartfelt apology  an apology that I extend today without hesitation or reservation."

The gesture comes weeks after Ms Collins Rudolph and her lawyers pressed the governor to offer restitution for the decades of physical and emotional suffering she has endured. Ms Collins Rudolph said she was never offered an apology, medical treatment, counseling, or any recognition from state officials. Now that the US is again confronting systemic racism, her lawyers say the time is right for their client to receive "long overdue justice."

While the state of Alabama wasn't responsible for planting the bomb, Ms Collins Rudolph's lawyers acknowledged in their letter, its governor and other state leaders at the time "played an undisputed role in encouraging its citizens to engage in racial violence." The letter specifically named then-Gov George Wallace, who championed segregation throughout the South and, according to the lawyers, emboldened the bombers through "racist rhetoric." For those reasons and more, they wrote, Ms Collins Rudolph deserves restitution.

Story continues

"She has born the burdens of the bombing for virtually her entire life, and we believe her story presents an especially meritorious and unique opportunity for the State of Alabama to right the wrongs that its past leaders encouraged and incited," the letter to Ms Ivey stated.

In her response, the governor invited Ms Collins Rudolph's lawyers to meet with attorneys from the state legislature to discuss the demands  though she did not promise any type of financial restitution. Ms Ivey wrote that beginning a conversation "without prejudice for what any final outcome might produce but with a goal of finding mutual accord" could be part of her administration's efforts to "foster fruitful conversations" about race.

Read more

Alabama Republican celebrates KKK member's birthday as state remembers civil rights hero John Lewis

1963 church bombing survivor seeks apology, restitution

Alabama governor Kay Ivey apologises for wearing blackface but refuses to resign
The couple shared the devastating news, which comes after Teigen, 34, was admitted to hospital earlier this week complaining of continuous bleeding, on Instagram.

The emotional post said of the deep pain they were feeling, and how they had already called the baby Jack.

Kim Kardashian, who is good friends with the pair, sent her love to the couple, commenting on the post: Were always here for you and love you guys so much.

Teigen and Legend have been left devastated after losing their baby / Chrissy Teigen/ Instagram

Paris Hilton added: My heart breaks for you and John. I am so sorry for your loss. Sending you and your family so much love. Love you beautiful.

Model Hailey Bieber commented: Im so so sorry. Thinking of you and John, praying for you guys and sending you so much love during this time.

Actor Channing Tatum said: Sending so much love to you right now, while Breaking Bad star Aaron Paul wrote: I love you.

The most-liked comment on the heartbreaking post was from a fan called Joe Fahed, who said: In Lebanese culture, we believe babies like Jack are angels that God selectively chooses to watch over you. Sending you light.

His comment was seen by Amanda Holden, who gave birth via caesarean to a stillborn son, Theo, in 2011.

Replying to the post, she said: This is how I deal with my loss.

Kim Kardashian, who is a good friend of the couple, sent her love to Chrissy / @kimkardashian / Instagram stories

Actress Alyssa Milano thanked Teigen for her raw, unfiltered honesty, writing: Thank you for sharing this. Im sending you all the love and strength. Im so sorry.

Selling Sunset star Mary Fitzgerald, who has also lost a child, wrote: Im so sorry for your loss Chrissy! I know first hand how difficult this is to go through.



Wishing you all the strength in the world for you and your beautiful family to get through this together.

Teigen was admitted to hospital earlier this week, and had seemed in good spirits, reassuring her followers on social media that the baby was in good health.

We are shocked and in the kind of deep pain you only hear about, the kind of pain weve never felt before, she has since written. We were never able to stop the bleeding and give our baby the fluids he needed, despite bags and bags of blood transfusions. It just wasnt enough.

The pair, who share Luna, 4, and two-year-old Miles, added they had decided to call the baby Jack while Teigen was expecting.

To our Jack - Im so sorry that the first few moments of your life were met with so many complications, that we couldnt give you the home you needed to survive, Teigen added. We will always love you.
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Socialism is a man-made economic ideology driven by the big idea that the masses know how to use my property, my money, and my materials better than I do.

Its the ideology that gave birth to government-run housing, welfare, socialized medicine, and a tax system that redistributes the wealth of hardworking Americans to non-working Americans. And I suppose if we lived in a kingdom-centered society, a world in which We the People followed the directives of the King, I might be more inclined to go along with such a notion. But our society is controlled by a different kingdom that leads the people according to their desires instead of according to whats godly. Yes, the kingdom of the evil one has established itself in America, and whats the result? The apostle Paul might put it this way:

For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. (Phil. 3:1819)

Does that sound like a group of people you want directing your tax dollars, your property, and your economic opportunities?

No way, dude!

Im concerned that when a government composed of ungodly bureaucrats exercises control over our wealth, theyll spend it on ungodly policies, funding immorality. Dont believe me?

Pay attention, Mr. and Mrs. and Ms. Taxpayer.

In 2010, President Barack Obama signed a bill making socialized healthcare available to the masses through government intervention. As is the way with all government intervention, Obamacare, as its come to be known, is also a vehicle for advancing a godless, immoral agenda.

How?

In the runup to the 2020 election, a group of politicians came clean about their intentions for socialized healthcare. For years, thered been a bill on the books (my son Al tells me its called the Hyde Amendment) that in most instances prohibits the use of federal funds to pay for abortions. But as the 2020 electoral cycle opened, the majority of Democrat candidates shared an expanded view of a pro-choice agenda, arguing that Obamacare recipients should receive some form of abortion coverage. There was a holdout, though. Former vice president Joe Biden had previously stood by prohibiting government-funded abortions. But as he entered the race, he was criticized for his support of the Hyde Amendment. So Old Joe flipped and changed his position. The New York Times reported, Joseph R. Biden Jr. . . . no longer supports a measure that bans federal funding for most abortions.

Show us your true colors, Joe.

See what happens when socialist systems are directed by godless people? We end up with government-funded immorality. And the American people are forced to hold their noses and choke it down.

One could argue, in comparison to socialism, capitalism is its own sort of-ism, and in the hands of godless people, it can be just as destructive. True enough.

But ask yourself, which philosophy  capitalism or socialism  gives the citizens of the kingdom the best opportunity to use their money to advance the causes of the King? The one that allows a godless government to distribute wealth as they see fit or the system that gives kingdom people the freedom to direct their resources toward godly causes?

Do I really need to ask?

The King could have come and set up a holy socialist government that redistributed wealth to the poor. But if you examine the Scriptures, youll see thats not what happened. Instead, the King entrusted his people with money and asked them to use it in ways that honored the King.

Throughout the Bible, the Almighty affirms private wealth creation.

Jesus didnt abdicate his responsibility to us, the spiritually poor, and we shouldnt abdicate ours either. And we shouldnt expect the government to do our job for us. Instead, we ought to fight for the right to use our wealth to care for those in the world around us and, ultimately, to bring them into the kingdom. This is exactly what Jesus asks of us. If we dont, we turn that responsibility over to the government and let ungodly legislators and presidents determine how to spend our capital, theres no doubt our money will be used for ungodly ends.

I dont expect this message will be well received. I reckon the media might take a shot or two at my view of the Kings economic policy. After all, the message of the King is foolishness to those under the influence of the evil one (1 Cor. 1:18). But, dont you see how true this is? All these self-proclaimed wise men, todays politicians, dont they think they know how to spend our money better than we do? But how has that panned out, America? Have socialist programs  healthcare, government housing, welfare  made us more moral, upright, godly, and harder working? Have they eliminated poverty?

Nah.

According to census statistics, 38.1 million people still live in poverty in the United States. Some research shows that as much as 10 percent of government assistance recipients have used illicit drugs in the last month. So, if you ask me, Id say all those government programs havent cured the ills of society  socially or morally.

What could alleviate poverty more directly while increasing the moral standing of our fellow Americans? Come on down to the river and find out. See how a few kingdom capitalists  my family, for instance  fight poverty, joblessness, and homelessness. Meet folks who work hard and live right. And once youre convinced (and I know you will be), join me in the fight for the right to keep your money and to use it for the King.

Adapted from JESUS POLITICS: HOW TO WIN BACK THE SOUL OF AMERICA. Copyright  2020 by Phil Robertson. Published by Thomas Nelson. Available wherever books are sold.
A former top Homeland Security aide to Donald Trump has strongly criticised his old boss for giving tacit permission to domestic terrorist groups to operate in the US, saying the presidents refusal to directly and unequivocally condemn white supremacists at the first presidential debate on Tuesday was tantamount to giving such groups a loaded gun.

Miles Taylor, the former chief of staff at the Department of Homeland Security who has endorsed Democratic nominee Joe Biden for president, told CNN in an interview on Thursday that white supremacist groups have celebrated Mr Trumps comments about them on multiple occasions, including on Tuesday night.

Donald Trump has created, in my opinion, the favourable conditions that have allowed these domestic terrorist groups to rise, said Mr Taylor, who served as chief of staff to DHS Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen and later Acting Secretary Chad Wolf from 2017 to 2019.

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The Trump administration didn't want to pay attention to white domestic terrorist groups because they viewed them as a potential base of support politically, Mr Taylor said.

In the days since Mr Trump told the Proud Boys to stand back and stand by at his debate with Mr Biden, members of the far-right gang have been seen wearing t-shirts emblazoned with the presidents comments, according to reports.

On Thursday, online retailing giant Amazon blocked the sale of merchandise with the phrases stand back and stand by.

At the debate on Tuesday, moderator and Fox News host Chris Wallace asked Mr Trump if he was willing to denounce violence committed by white nationalist groups, many of whom have been aggressively confronting left-wing activists at racial justice demonstrations this summer.

Sure, I would be willing to do that, but I would say almost everything I see is from the left wing, not from the right wing, Mr Trump replied.

Mr Trump challenged Mr Wallace to name a specific group to condemn.

Mr Biden cut in to suggest the Proud Boys.

Proud Boys? Stand back and stand by. But I tell you what  somebodys got to do something about Antifa and the left because this is not a right-wing problem, this is a left wing problem, Mr Trump said, referring to the loose collection of far-left anarchists whose stated goal is to topple fascist elements in the US.

While the vast majority (93 per cent) of the protests against police brutality and systemic racism this summer were nonviolent, a key study found, Mr Trump has seized on the pockets of vandalism, looting, and violence that have sprung up at times in places such as Kenosha, Wisconsin, and Portland, Oregon, as a way to attack Mr Biden and the Democrats.

Mr Biden has directly condemned Antifa and political violence across the board.

Mr Taylor, the ex-Homeland Security chief of staff, echoed the sentiments of several other Republicans who believe Mr Trump squandered an easy opportunity to denounce something so plainly vile as white supremacy.

The president's rhetoric has served as a loaded gun for those groups, who have since taken his words as sort of permission to do what they're doing, Mr Taylor said.

If you look at what happened in Charlottesville [in 2017], when the president said that there were fine people on both sides, those groups celebrated it afterwards, he said.

Mr Taylor has been working with the political organisation Republican Voters Against Trump to defeat the president in the 2020 election.

He blasted Mr Trump as incompetent and singularly focused on political gain in an ad for the group that went viral in August.

The presidents lack of focus on matters of national security made the US a less safe place than when he took office, Mr Taylor later wrote in an op-ed for The Washington Post.

Trump showed vanishingly little interest in subjects of vital national security interest, including cybersecurity, domestic terrorism and malicious foreign interference in US affairs, Mr Taylor wrote.

How can you run a huge organisation under those conditions? You can't, he wrote.
"Rising geopolitical tensions with China could prove challenging when Australias borders reopen and potentially affect both the education and leisure travel segments to Queensland," the report reads.

But Australian diplomatic relations with China have deteriorated rapidly throughout the year as Queensland's tourism industry begins to pull itself out of a coronavirus-induced coma.

Tension between China and Australia could have impacts on tourism and education industries in Queensland. Credit:Michelle Smith

Last year, Chinese tourists were the biggest spenders in Queensland, splashing $1.3 billion and accounting for about a quarter of total international expenditure, the Tourism and Events Queensland annual report reveals.

Tension between China and Australia could deliver a devastating blow to Queensland's tourism industry when international borders reopen, a tourism report warns.

The report, which contains data from July 2019 to March 2020, does not detail the full economic impact the coronavirus has had on tourism but discusses the "sharp declines" in visitation from China following the initial travel ban.

Griffith University's Asia Institute director, Caitlin Byrne, said the relationship between China and Australia had been dogged by geopolitical and strategic tension but the countries bonded over strong trade relations.

Strain on the relationship threatens some of Queensland's biggest industries, including tourism, education and agriculture.

"A lot of issues are being amplified in the shadow of COVID-19 and the state of the Australia-China relationship, well, there is no doubt we are at a low ebb," Professor Byrne said.

"Just like any relationship, you have to work at it and we need to invest more effort in understanding China and some of the shifts that are under way in the Chinese landscape and what that means for us.
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Haiti - World Bank : Donation of several millions for renewable energy in Haiti





On Wednesday, September 30, the Board of Directors of the World Bank approved additional funding of $6.9 million for the project "Haiti : Renewable Energies for All". This funding aims to develop investments in renewable energies in order to extend and improve access to electricity for health infrastructures, households, businesses and services within communities.



"Access to a reliable source of energy is essential to strengthening the country's health institutions, to enable them to supply the equipment necessary for the management of the coronavirus pandemic as well as other priority health services. This ad hoc intervention complements the support already implemented in the health sector, at the same time it strengthens the country's resilience in the face of future shocks," said Anabela Abreu, Country Director of the World Bank in Haiti, adding "Access to clean and locally produced energy will also promote inclusive growth in Haiti, by encouraging innovation and new investments, essential for post-COVID-19 economic recovery."



The electricity sector represents a major obstacle to economic development as well as to emergency response and recovery to shocks in Haiti. In fact, the country's hospitals are largely dependent on emergency generators, powered by diesel, the electricity network is often only available a few hours a day. Lack of reliable access to electricity hampers the efficiency of laboratories responsible for testing for coronavirus, limits the distribution and secure storage of drugs (and possibly vaccines), and may prevent the use of vital equipment, such as oxygen concentrators.



This additional funding of 6.9 million will allow the Government to extend the supply of clean and reliable electricity to at least four priority health centers involved in the response to the pandemic. Funded activities include the installation of solar panels and energy storage batteries for sanitation and water distribution infrastructure. The project will also complete the rehabilitation of the Drouet mini-hydropower plant in the Artibonite department, which will provide clean and reliable electricity to neighboring communities as well as to the regional grid.



This additional funding includes a donation of $4 million from the International Development Association (IDA), and $2.9 million from the Energy Sector Management Assistance Program trust fund.



Recall that the "Haiti : Renewable Energies for All" Project was launched in March 2018 thanks to a donation of $19.62 million from the Strategic Climate Fund.



HL/ HaitiLibre


















PARIS  Adding to evidence of markedly improved trading for fast-fashions giants, Hennes & Mauritz AB reported expectation-beating profit over the third quarter while flagging a 5 percent decline in sales in September  another figure that outpaced forecasts.

Although the challenges are far from over, we believe that the worst is behind us and we are well placed to come out of the crisis stronger, said Helena Helmersson, chief executive officer of H&M Group, which operates Cos, Monki and Weekday in addition to H&M.

More from WWD

Operating profit for the three months ended Aug. 31 came to 2.7 billion Swedish kronor, or $300 million, while sales came to 50.87 billion Swedish kronor, a 16 percent decline in local currencies. The gross margin came to 48.9 percent.

More good news for Q3, said Richard Chamberlain of RBC Europe, citing stronger than expected gross margin along with September sales rate, down 5 percent  an improvement over recent months. The analyst predicted it would be a positive read for the sector, including Inditex. Profit after financial items came to 2.37 billion Swedish kronor, outpacing Chamberlains forecast of 2.1 billion Swedish kronor. The retailer in August had said it expected profit of 2 billion Swedish kronor.

Analysts have singled out stronger full-price sales  a crucial issue for H&M, which had suffered from discounting spirals in recent years. The retailer has been bulking up digital services and refocusing its offer. The coronavirus crisis hit just as the group had started to see turnaround efforts pay off.

H&M has adapted to the coronavirus crisis, and temporary store closures, by cutting costs and renegotiating leases for its sprawling network of stores.

The financial industry has been surprised by fast-fashions recovery in recent weeks, but warn the sector is not entirely out of the woods, and investors expect a moderate pace of recovery.

H&M reported a loss in the first half as the coronavirus crisis weighed heavily on sales, and has doubled down on efforts to improve digital channels  which has seen a significant increase in business during lockdown periods, while speeding up store closures. The group plans a net decrease of around 250 stores in 2021.
WHITE PLAINS, N.Y., Sept. 30, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- White Plains Hospital (the "Hospital") announced on September 30, 2020 that it is mailing letters to some patients alerting them of a data security incident that occurred at one of its vendors, Blackbaud, Inc. ("Blackbaud"). Blackbaud provides software and cloud-based data storage solutions for White Plains Hospital and numerous other non-profit organizations related to fund raising efforts.

Blackbaud notified the Hospital that an unauthorized individual gained access to the Blackbaud systems and acquired backup copies of customer databases, including the database White Plains Hospital uses for fundraising activities. According to Blackbaud, the incident occurred between February 7, 2020 and May 20, 2020.

The Privacy Office at White Plains Hospital learned of this incident on July 31, 2020. Since that time, the Hospital has been communicating with Blackbaud to better understand the nature and the extent of the incident and what was involved. Blackbaud has reported it has no reason to believe any information involved in the incident went beyond the unauthorized individual, was or will be misused, or will be disseminated or otherwise made available publicly.

Based on White Plains Hospital's review of the Blackbaud database involved in the incident, it contained some patient information, including names, addresses, dates of birth, patient identifiers, and potentially in some instances, treating physician names, visit dates, and/or reasons for seeking treatment.

Importantly, Social Security numbers and financial account information were not stored in the Blackbaud database and were not involved in this incident. In addition, the incident did not involve any access to White Plains Hospital's medical record systems.

White Plains Hospital has set up a dedicated call center to answer questions about this incident, at 833-752-0847, between 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday, except holidays. The Hospital recommends that patients review communications from their medical providers and contact the provider directly regarding any services or billing they do not recognize, or any requests for information.

Protecting privacy is one of White Plains Hospital's top priorities. To help prevent something like this from happening again, the Hospital is reviewing the way its information is stored with Blackbaud and evaluating Blackbaud's safeguards.

SOURCE White Plains Hospital
ALBANY  A bipartisan commission tasked with redrawing New Yorks legislative and congressional district lines needs money to begin hiring staff. But the Cuomo administration has so far ignored commissioners' requests for funding.

The lack of response was alleged during Wednesday's meeting of the Independent Redistricting Commission, a 10-person panel created by a 2014 amendment to New Yorks constitution that was supposed to give greater voice to both political parties during the once-a-decade drawing of district lines.

Cuomo supported the 2014 amendment reforming a process that for decades allowed majority Democrats in the Assembly and Republicans in the state Senate to draw their own district lines. This year's state budget appropriated $750,000 to the Department of State, which was meant to then staff the newly created commission. But amid a major budget deficit, the agency has not released those funds to the commission, even as the body faces tight deadlines to complete its work next year.

Commissioners said a letter about the lack of funding signed by both the Democratic and Republican appointees got no response from state Budget Director Robert Mujica and legislative leaders.

Elaine Frazier, an appointee of Democratic Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, expressed frustration. We can write letters until the cows come home, she said. I'm about lettered out.

Commissioner George Winner, a Republican former state senator, said the four GOP commissioners are ready to hire their pick to be one of the body's two executive directors. The Democratic appointees will also choose an executive director.

It would appear our efforts are being thwarted by some of the powers that be, Winner said.



It is intentional. it is not inadvertent, added another Republican former state senator, Jack Martins, who is also on the commission. It's the last day of September. We have a job to do. And we all understand we're all well beyond where we should be right now.



The hiring is not optional: The 2014 constitutional amendment requires the hiring of co-executive directors. Once they're on board, they would be able to hire further staff for the commission.

Asked by the Times Union about the commissioners' unreturned letter, Freeman Klopott, a spokesman for the state Division of the Budget, said the funding for the commission would be released "as soon as possible."

Nominate your favorite people and places now Its the 25th anniversary of our Best of the Capital Region readers survey. Nominate your favorite people, places and businesses between Jan. 21 and Feb. 4.

Setting the histrionics aside and to be clear: These funds arent being held back and we intend to release them as soon as possible in consultation with the Department of State," Klopott said.

State Senate Republicans suspect the independent panel is being intentionally undermined, which could lead to missed deadlines and triggered provisions allowing majority state Senate Democrats to take control of the line-drawing. The situation is a sharp reversal: Republicans for decades controlled the process, but lost the majority in the chamber in 2018 and are expected to remain in the minority when redistricting plays out before the 2022 elections.



Senate Democrats moved forward this summer on another proposed constitutional amendment  which would be voted upon in November 2021  that would advantage Senate Democrats and reshape the commission's process midstream. Senate Democrats cast the effort as making the rules, created when the Senate GOP held the majority in 2014, equally fair to both parties.



At Tuesdays meeting, as prescribed by the constitutional amendment, the final two commissioners to the panel were chosen by the eight politically appointed commissioners. Under the 2014 amendment, neither was allowed to be a member of a major political party. The two selections were Ross Brady, a Brooklyn attorney, and Ivelisse Cuevas-Molina, an assistant professor of political science at Fordham University.
K Shiva Kumar By

Express News Service

MYSURU: As the Covid shadow overhangs the November 3 bypolls to Sira and RR Nagar constituencies, politicians face the challenge of running a safe campaign, especially with cases on an upward spiral. The pandemic has pushed them on the backfoot, as the very essence of democratically fought elections lies in the leader reaching out to constituents.

The scare is especially greater since Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa, BJP State Chief Nalin Kumar Kateel, Opposition leader Siddaramaiah, KPCC president D K Shivakumar, JDS leader HD Revanna and many other leaders tested positive and have only just recovered.

Former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda has to keep his age in mind, and former Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, who has serious health issues, has been advised to keep away from gatherings.

Bengaluru, with 2.28 lakh cases, is fast emerging as the corona capital of the country, and R R Nagar, where bypolls are due, has alone crossed the 15,000-mark (12 per cent of cases reported in Bengaluru in the past 10 days).

This has put netas in a fix.In these changed times, the BJP, Congress and JDS are exploring maximum use of social media platforms and other modes to reach out to voters.

They know that this election involves more than just picking candidates and mobilising resources and manpower; they will have to deliver their punch on digital platforms.

Opposition leader Siddaramaiah has decided not to come out without a shield, and is very particular about keeping social distance, while D K Shivakumar, who was rushed to hospital recently, is also wary. Gowda, who has remained indoors over the past few months, has started interacting with leaders on phone and Zoom to discuss the party organization.

Both the seats going to polls are in Vokkaliga-dominated areas, and the JDS is keen to retain Sira and also wrest RR Nagar, and has turned to e-campaigning.

The KPCC, that successfully used digital streaming for Prathigna Diwas, the oath-taking ceremony of Shivakumar, is expanding its reach to its cadres with the use of Facebook, Zoom, Google Net and WhatsApp, besides video campaigns.KPCC IT cell chief Priyank Kharge said that campaigning while maintaining social distance norms, is the greatest challenge.

He said the Congress is looking at higher penetration for the success of its propaganda, and its own narrative to win voters.

Digital campaigning is an integral part of election strategies in future, and everyone wants to do well on digital platforms, he added.

The BJP has the advantage of a head start, as it has been using social media platforms to take its programmes to the people, and for party organisation activities, and is set to step up its campaign in both the constituencies.

State BJP general secretary Siddaraju said a meeting will be held to discuss its bypoll strategy and also the use of social media. He said the party will get directions from the high command on the use of digital platforms.

JDS leader Sa Ra Mahesh said it is difficult to campaign, as the health of both leaders and voters is at stake.

He said the party will explore all possible modalities to use social media to reach out to voters, train party cadre at the booth level and also upload speeches of Deve Gowda and Kumaraswamy, seeking support for the party candidates.
The influence of bots on vaccine-related discussions on social media is a lot smaller than we think, with only a minor fraction of information from bots reaching active social media users.

The University of Sydney-led research looked at over 53,000 randomly selected active Twitter users in the United States and monitored their interaction with more than 20 million vaccine-related tweets posted by both human-operated and bot Twitter accounts from 2017 to 2019.

Other studies have examined vaccine-related content on social media, but there has yet to be a reliable estimate on how much of the vaccine-related content that social media users potentially see or interact with comes from bots.

The research team found that an overwhelming majority of the vaccine-related content seen by typical users in the United States is generated by human-operated accounts.

In the three-year period, a typical Twitter user potentially saw 757 vaccine-related posts, just 27 of those were critical of vaccination, and most users were unlikely to have ever seen vaccine-related content from a bot.

More than a third of active Twitter users posted or retweeted about vaccines but only 4.5 percent ever retweeted vaccine-critical information.

The findings, published in the American Journal of Public Health, was led by public health informatics expert Associate Professor Adam Dunn, who is head of Biomedical Informatics and Digital Health from the School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health.

"The study shows that bots play little to no role in shaping vaccine discourse among Twitter users in the United States," says Associate Professor Dunn.

"There is concern about the role of bots on the spread of misinformation on social media, and pressure on social media companies to deal with them. We found that Twitter users rarely encounter and share vaccine related content posted by bots.

"The reality is that most of what people see about vaccines on social media is neither critical nor misinformation. It is convenient to blame problems in public health and politics on orchestrated and malicious activities, so many investigations focus on simply tallying up what vocal anti-vaccine groups post, without measuring what everyone else actually sees and engages with.

The researchers suggest that resources that are being invested by social media platforms and policy makers for controlling bots and trolls might be more effectively used on interventions to educate and improve media literacy. Education interventions may help to create a protective barrier around the small anti-vaccine groups to stop misinformation from spreading.

Key findings:

- A typical user was potentially exposed to 757 vaccine-related tweets, of which 27 included vaccine-critical content, and none were from bots. -36.7 percent of users posted or retweeted vaccine content, but only 4.5 percent of users retweeted a vaccine-critical tweet, and 2.1 percent of users retweeted a bot. -A subgroup of 5.8 percent of Twitter users in the United States are embedded in communities where they were more engaged with the topic of vaccination in general. But even among this relatively small subgroup, the vast majority never engaged with vaccine-related posts from bots, and instead were engaging with vaccine-critical content posted by other human users in their communities.

The study did not examine social media engagement with trolls, rather focussed on human-operated Twitter accounts that use a range of approaches to gain followers and post misinformation.

The 'information epidemiology' landscape

The study comes at a critical time when the topic of public health misinformation spread via social media platforms is a pressing question for government and global agencies during the COVID-19 pandemic, including in Australia.

Associate Professor Dunn studies the epidemiology of health information, a field that measures how people are exposed to or seek out health information online, and the tools that can be used to prevent the spread and impact of misinformation.

"Vaccine confidence is unevenly distributed within and across countries, which can lead to increased risk of outbreaks in places where too many people decide not to vaccinate."

"I think the best tools that social media platforms have for stopping misinformation are those that can empower their users to spot it and add friction to passing it along. For public health organisations and researchers, the tools we need are those that can prioritise resources by signalling when the benefits of tackling misinformation outweigh the risks of unintentionally amplifying it by engaging with it.

"By focusing investigations only on counting what bots, trolls, and malicious users post without looking at what people potentially see and engage with, there is the risk of unnecessarily amplifying that content and could make it seem much more important than it really is."

###
An inherent conflict of interest exists between ensuring as much funding reaches Epics students and the school founders earning a profit because the two founders and a single chief financial officer for both their for-profit business and the school are making all of the financial decisions, Byrd said.

The arrangement of Epic CFO Josh Brock writing checks for the schools and then turning them over and signing them to deposit into the for-profits bank account violates the most basic accounting principles.

You cant have a CFO whose priority is profit on one side and taxpayer protection on the other, Byrd said Thursday afternoon. Taxpayers must ask: Are the students really the ones being served?

EYS brought in nearly $46 million in management fees over the last six years. But despite its contract for services, EYS was found to have zero employees from July 2014 until October 2018 and only three the last couple of years  a fact one of the co-owners reportedly did not want out.

What the Legislature will do if we make our employee count public record  they will bludgeon us about our fees, Ben Harris, is quoted as having told the state auditors office.
Angola, IN (46703)

Today

Cloudy with periods of snow after midnight. Low 19F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 80%. About one inch of snow expected..

Tonight

Cloudy with periods of snow after midnight. Low 19F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 80%. About one inch of snow expected.
Women are more likely to defect than men from North Korea - Jon Chol Jin/AP

A North Korean refugee has recounted how she was repeatedly raped by two South Korean spies, shedding a fresh spotlight on the widespread abuse of women during the dangerous process of defecting from the authoritarian North.

In an interview with Reuters, the woman, identified only by her surname, Lee, said she thought she had found a father figure when she was approached by a mysterious man called Dr Seong, who was a Defence Intelligence Command official.

Initially she believed Dr Seong could help establish her new life in the South after he began paying her for information and helped to reconnect her with her brother, who remained behind in the North.

However, her new life took a dark turn when Dr Seong and his colleague, identified as Mr Kim, began to sexually abuse her. This month they were both indicted by military prosecutors on charges of sexually assaulting and raping Ms Lee.

Many women face horrendous abuse if they choose to leave North Korea - Kim Won JIn/AFP

The young woman, in her early thirties, is not alone in facing a harsh new reality in a country she had hoped would be a refuge. According to a 2017 survey by South Koreas gender equality ministry, more than 72 per cent of 33,700 resettled North Koreans are women and at least a quarter of them encountered sexual violence but less than 10 per cent sought help.

Ms Lee accused the two intelligence officials of abusing their power. I was mad at myself, for being unable to resist when they did that to me, she said. After all, they were the first people I trusted, respected and relied on here.

The assaults began after she pleaded for help when her brother was arrested in 2018 while trying to get information that Dr Seong had requested. He had been working at a military institute where she had also been employed before defecting in 2014 at age 26.

The abuse continued for nearly a year and a half and she was pressed to get two abortions and suffered severe distress to point where she was left suicidal.

Story continues

The defence ministry and a lawyer for the two men did not respond to Reuters requests for comment but the militarys chief prosecutor, Colonel Lee Soo-dong, said the accused had consensual sexual intercourse with the woman but denied rape.

South Korea is also going through a #MeToo movement as women push back against discrimination - Jeon Heon-Kyun/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

Ms Lees case highlights the vulnerable position of North Korean women at every stage of the treacherous path to defection.

Last year, a report by the London-based Korea Future Initiative, revealed how thousands of fleeing North Korean women and girls are being subjected to forced marriage, prostitution and sadistic abuse by trafficking gangs running a multi-million dollar illicit sex industry in China.

The KFI report, based on the accounts of 45 survivors, showed that the women ensnared by the gangs face the terrible choice of becoming sex slaves or being repatriated to the oppressive state where they face torture in bleak prison camps or possible execution.

One 14-year-old girl told of how she had been sold for marriage for 2,740. Others described being starved, imprisoned and abused live on camera in sordid cybersex dens that feed the worlds insatiable desire for online pornography.

Yoon Hee-soon, the reports author estimated that the exploitation of North Korean women and girls generates at least 82 million a year for the Chinese underworld.

Commonly aged between 12-29 and overwhelmingly female, victims are coerced, sold, or abducted in China or trafficked directly from North Korea, she said. Many are sold more than once and are forced into at least one form of sexual slavery within a year of leaving their homeland.
TORONTO - Some of the most active companies traded Wednesday on the Toronto Stock Exchange:

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 30/9/2020 (479 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

TORONTO - Some of the most active companies traded Wednesday on the Toronto Stock Exchange:

Toronto Stock Exchange (16,121.38, down 90.14 points.)

NuVista Energy Ltd. (TSX:NVA). Energy. Up one cent, or 1.59 per cent, to 64 cents on 17.9 million shares.

Bank of Nova Scotia. (TSX:BNS). Financials. Down 12 cents, or 0.22 per cent, to $55.32 on 15.4 million shares.

Bombardier Inc. (TSX:BBD.B). Industrials. Down 1.5 cents, or 4.35 per cent, to 33 cents on 8.6 million shares.

Enbridge Inc. (TSX:ENB). Energy. Down 70 cents, or 1.77 per cent, to $38.90 on 7.7 million shares.

Kinross Gold Corp. (TSX:K). Materials. Down 21 cents, or 1.76 per cent, to $11.75 on 7.2 million shares.

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Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp. (TSX:AQN). Utilities. Up 17 cents, or 0.89 per cent, to $19.34 on 7.1 million shares.

Companies in the news:

Bombardier Inc.  Uncertainty continues to mount around the US$500-million sale of Bombardier Inc.'s aerostructures business to Spirit AeroSystems, as the Kansas-based company warns that a failed transaction could pave the way for a legal dispute with the Quebec plane maker. Spirit filed documents with U.S. regulatory authorities Tuesday confirming that the deal may not close by the drop-dead date of Oct. 31, which it says could prompt litigation from Bombardier. The company noted it believes it has complied with all its commitments under the agreement. The document arrives one week after Spirit submitted forms stating the deal will automatically terminate if conditions are not satisfied before November.

Telus Inc. (TSX:T). Down 41 cents or 1.7 per cent to $23.43. The Medisys Health Group and its affiliate Copeman Healthcare say they paid an unspecified ransom to retrieve personal information for about 60,000 clients after detecting a security breach on Aug. 31. An email from Medisys head office in Montreal says privacy officials were notified Sept. 4, four days after the breach was discovered, and began notifying customers last week. They say hackers got demographic information, such as ages and addresses, and some personal health numbers but no financial information or social insurance numbers. Medisys and Copeman's websites  which note they belong to Telus  say their security consultants paid the ransom and confirmed the hackers didn't tamper with the data.

Kinross Gold Corp.  Kinross Gold Corp. is moving to secure additional supply for its Alaska gold operations by buying a controlling interest in the Peak Gold project from Royal Gold, Inc., and Contango Ore, Inc., for $125 million. Toronto-based Kinross has agreed to pay Royal Gold about $66 million for its entire 40 per cent stake and $59.6 million for half of Contango's 60 per cent share, leaving Contango with a minority 30 per cent holding. The miner says it plans to process ore from the open-pit Peak Gold mine at its existing Fort Knox mine, 400 kilometres to the northwest, to reduce costs and extend the life of the existing mill and infrastructure.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 30, 2020.
Marilyn Ramirez immigrated from the Dominican Republic with her parents when she was a toddler, and spent her early years on West 207th Street, in the Inwood neighborhood of Manhattan. The apartment was on the fifth floor, back, and thats where I lived for 15 years, she said. Thats why I said I will never live in a fifth-floor walkup, and I want my apartments to look to the front.

Ms. Ramirez, 51, had brief stints in Miami Beach, Yonkers, N.Y., and New Jersey. But she always returned to Inwood.

After her divorce seven years ago, though, she couldnt afford to stay, so she rented a two-bedroom on the Grand Concourse in the Bronx, where she lived with her two youngest children, now teenagers. As the rent rose, the apartment became less of a bargain. Homesick, she vowed to return to her old neighborhood. Her 17-year-old daughter was especially eager to return to Upper Manhattan, to be closer to friends.

I wrote it in my vision board, said Ms. Ramirez, a graduate of Fordham University, who teaches at the High School for Media and Communications. I am a goal-oriented person, and everything I have achieved in my life began with a set intention and an actionable goal.

[Did you recently buy or rent a home in the New York metro area? We want to hear from you. Email: thehunt@nytimes.com]

The Bronx lease expired in the spring, so despite the pandemic, Ms. Ramirez contacted Bryan Anthony Portalatin, an agent at Bohemia Realty Group, and prepared to move.

She told me she was looking for a three-bedroom, Mr. Portalatin said. Most of the time, the two-bedrooms are really tiny. She was trying to find something that had good space.

Realistically, with her budget of up to $2,400 a month, Ms. Ramirez figured a two-bedroom might have to do. Besides a low floor and a front-facing apartment, she wanted good closet space and nice kitchen appliances, although she didnt need a dishwasher. Washing dishes was always my favorite chore, from when I was little, she said. She was also willing to consider the Washington Heights neighborhood, near work.

At the height of the pandemic, she was forced to hunt mostly online.

I really watch and analyze the video, she said. I will stop it and rewind it and be, like, Oh, they dont want to show you that window. It is like they want to take your attention away from something so you can focus on the big closet and not the window facing a brick wall. After a while, I found it comical.

Among her options:
Investor Jonathan Litt on NYC real estate post-pandemic, what's booming and the future of retail

Published Thu, Oct 1 2020 12:44 PM EDT Updated Fri, Oct 2 2020 4:28 PM EDT
Hundreds of millions in China have hustled to enjoy their first major national holiday since the country claimed to have contained its COVID-19 outbreak.

The nation is also hoping to boost its coronavirus-ravaged economy by encouraging its citizens to take part in 'revenge travel'.

Authorities estimate that around 550 million people will make trips within the country during the 'Golden Week' this year, an eight-day holiday celebrating China's National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival.

Renowned tourist attractions, including the Great Wall and Shanghai Disneyland, were jam-packed with visitors on Thursday while passengers swamped train stations and airports.

Hundreds of millions in China have hustled to enjoy their first major national holiday since the country beat its COVID-19 outbreak. Throngs of tourists are pictured visiting the Badaling Great Wall amid the coronavirus pandemic during National Day in Beijing on Thursday

Traffic moves along a street decorated with national flags during the national holiday on October 1 in Wuhan as hundreds of millions of people are rushing to enjoy the holiday

A view of the crowd at a railway station in Hangzhou in east China's Zhejiang province on Wednesday as Chinese people flock to tourist attractions all over the country for the holiday

The Golden Week holiday marks the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949 and sees an astonishing annual movement of people trying to get home or take holidays.

But this year has added significance, with the crowds filling the concourses pointing to a country rebounding from the outbreak and parading the freedom to travel as a contrast to the rolling lockdowns hitting much of the world.

As China started slowly recovering from the outbreak, Chinese officials began promoting this pent-up demand, described by state media as 'revenge tourism' or 'revenge travel', in a bid to rejuvenate the economy.

Hundreds of Chinese tourist attractions offered reduced fares or free entries while travel booking platforms revealed major sales on train and plane tickets during the public holiday, according to state media Xinhua.

Footage filmed by tourists today show hundreds of millions flocking to famous scenic spots all over China, including the Great Wall, Shanghai Disneyland and the West Lake in Hangzhou.

Another clip shows a group of police officers gathering as a human shield-wall to control the massive flow of visitors at The Bund in Shanghai, a famous waterfront overlooking the Huangpu River in the city.

Police are seen gathering as a human shield-wall to control the massive flow of visitors at The Bund in Shanghai, a famous waterfront overlooking the Huangpu River in the city

Chinese soldiers stand guard as tourists visit Badaling Great Wall amid the coronavirus pandemic during National Day in Beijing on Thursday which marks the Chinese National Day

Swarms of visitors are pictured walking outside the Forbidden City in Beijing on Thursday

China appears to have largely contained the coronavirus outbreak while reporting mostly imported cases in recent weeks. People queue up to check in for domestic flights ahead of the country's national holiday at Beijing's Capital International Airport on September 30

'Normally, we would take a family holiday abroad... but this year we opted for a staycation instead,' Niu Honglin from Shanghai told AFP.

Niu booked rooms in a boutique hotel near Shanghai Disneyland but quickly encountered the problem of millions of extra tourists hunting fun at home.

'My daughter had to wait in line for nearly three hours to get on a ride,' she said.

Domestic travel has sprung back to life and given the economy a boost after the virus shuttered businesses and scared away tourists following its emergence in Wuhan late last year.

'People are travelling with a vengeance!' said Huo Binxing, a banker from Beijing who is heading to Lhasa in Tibet.

'It's our first chance to unwind after such a stressful period.'

Authorities estimated that around 550 million people will make trips within the country during the Golden Week this year, an eight-day holiday celebrating China's National Day

Wuhan in central China is back in business too, with visitors thronging to the Yellow Crane Tower  a Taoist shrine  according to the country's biggest travel agency Ctrip.

But some have scrapped plans as the virus continues to seed anxiety.

Ming Rui, a fashion designer in Beijing, said she cancelled a visit to the coastal city Qingdao after two coronavirus cases were reported there last week.

'It was our first family trip this year, but we cancelled because I got very nervous,' Ming said, adding her parents are in their seventies.

More than 600 million trips will be taken during the holiday, down 20 percent from a year ago, Ctrip estimated, but they will still force the state railway to lay on 1,000 extra trains a day.

Around 108million passengers will take trains during the eight-day holidays  around 13.5million a day.

They are likely to bring much-needed spending to far-flung parts of China  last year, travellers spent $9.5billion (7.4billion) during the Golden Week.

A scenic spot in Binzhou city, Shandong province is seen filled with tourists on Thursday

Visitors are pictured holding Chinese flags while posing for a photo as they visit the Tiananmen Square during the Chinese National Day in Beijing on Thursday

Many will take luxury holidays at home, travel operator Quanar said, amid global travel restrictions.

But the absence of their tourist dollars this year will leave regional nations  from Thailand to Cambodia  wincing from the economic pain caused by the prolonged closure of borders.

At Beijing's Capital Airport  whose check-in rows and aisles were empty in February  thousands of passengers queued up with their luggage and children in tow.

Life in the Chinese capital has gradually returned to normal after ghostly scenes of empty roads in January and February, and a second virus outbreak in June.

The once eerily empty streets in the city's financial district are packed, previously deserted malls are full of shoppers and ice rinks have filled with children learning to skate again.

Chinese retail sales edged back to growth in August for the first time since the pandemic struck, signalling a rebound for the world's second-largest economy.
Gordon Ramsay has split opinion after sharing a video of his chocolate tofu pudding, which has been branded 'perhaps the most unappetising and unappealing dessert ever'.

The TV chef, 53, posted a Facebook video of the 10 pudding, which is the signature dessert of his swanky Mayfair restaurant Lucky Cat, which specialises in Asian cuisine.

The post quickly racked up 25,000 likes and 4,700 comments, with some saying they'd like to taste the dish, but others were left baffled by what looked like a 'brown paper bag' placed on top.

Another very impressed user penned: 'First the poop in the middle, then covered by a layer of what looks like fat, and topped with a piece of pork crackling.'

Gordon Ramsay has split opinion after sharing a video of his chocolate tofu dessert (pictured) at the Lucky Cat restaurant

While many thought the pudding looks 'amazing', others were baffled about the 'brown paper bag' on top of the dish

Alongside the video, the chef penned: 'The signature chocolate tofu at Lucky Cat by Gordon Ramsay.... absolutely beautiful!!'

And users agreed that the dish looked 'amazing', writing: 'beautifully presented. That's made me hungry!'

'Looks AMAZING', another agreed.

While another decided: 'Not really a looker but I'm sure it tastes amazing'.

Some users weren't so kind about the dish, with many confused about the brown sheet added to the pudding at the end, joking the 'brown paper bag totally ruined it'

Some users thought the dish looked 'amazing', writing: 'beautifully presented. That's made me hungry!'

However others weren't so kind about the dish, with many confused about the brown sheet added to the pudding at the end, joking the 'brown paper bag totally ruined it'.

'Looked great until he put that brown paper on it. Totally ruined it', one wrote.

'He covered the beautiful part! I'm sure it tastes delicious but the white stuff and the brown sheet do not look appetizing,' said another.

The TV chef, 53, posted a Facebook video of the 10 pudding, which is the signature dessert of his swanky Mayfair restaurant Lucky Cat

One vivid user compared the dessert to being 'covered by a layer of what looks like fat, and topped with a piece of pork crackling'

Meanwhile some users were dubious about the idea of putting chocolate with tofu all together, with one saying: 'Chocolate and tofu should not be used in the same sentence.'

'Love you Gordon but chocolate and tofu? I would rather eat the chocolate cake thank you', commented another.

A third agreed: 'Sorry, but chocolate and tofu should NEVER be used together in any way, shape or form whether physically or verbally.'

Last week diners slammed the chef's 20 preselected cheese board served at his restaurant in Chelsea, branding it 'insulting' and 'bland.'

A diner has slammed Gordon Ramsay's 20 preselected cheese board served at his restaurant in Chelsea as 'insulting' and 'bland'

Gordon Ramsay was savaged online over his Sunday lunch (pictured), with diners branding it a 'child's portion' and questioning where the rest of the trimmings are

Gordon Ramsay was also savaged online by a diner who visited one of his London restaurants and was left disappointed with the small steak and chips (pictured), costing 23

Gordon Ramsay has branded a fan an 'idiot sandwich' after the chef came under fire for sharing a picture of his lacklustre 19 Full English breakfast

The latest negative review was the fourth time this month that the celebrity TV chef food had been slammed.

Weeks ago, he was criticised online when he shared a photograph of his Sunday lunch on Instagram.

While Gordon labelled the 'sirloin of beef with all the trimmings' 'absolutely stunning', several of his 9.8million followers were left unimpressed by the three baby carrots and roast potatoes offered - with one person asking: 'Where's the rest of it?

He also came under fire with both his 19 Full English Breakfast at the Savoy Grill and the 'tiny' 23 steak and over-salted chips at his York & Albany eatery in Camden, being criticised.
The WISI solution was so efficient and so reliable, there was no need to look any further.

West Carolina Tel, a trusted telecommunications provider, has partnered with WISI, a global leader in carrier-grade video delivery solutions, to launch a next-generation video solution to address the needs of its Covid-19 affected customers in a non-traditional, but much-needed way.

This spring, the virus adversely impacted high school seniors and their expected graduation ceremonies, and West Carolina Tel recognized a chance to help ensure the health and safety of the communities it serves in northwestern South Carolina. It streamed local high school graduation ceremonies in real-time, allowing friends and families of high school seniors to enjoy the events from their homes, without potential exposure to the virus.

Engineers from both West Carolina Tel and WISI worked together to launch the streaming service very quickly, with WISI providing critical software at no charge.

The solution makes use of WISIs HLS streaming capability, as well as a new open-source video transport protocol, known as Secure Reliable Transport (SRT). SRT allows broadcast-quality video to be transported from remote locations over unmanaged internet connections.

The WISI solution was so efficient and so reliable, there was no need to look any further, said Jeff Robinson, Director of Engineering for West Carolina Tel.

A special website for the ceremonies was established by West Carolina Tel, and subscribers could log on during the ceremony from their homes, eliminating the health risk of attending in person. Videographers at the graduation ceremonies streamed HD IP video with SRT encoding to West Carolinas headend. WISIs Inca IP Video Platform then decoded the SRT streams, and WISI provided the necessary Adaptive Bit Rate (ABR) transcoding and HLS streaming software for the new website, at no charge.

Our guys were pretty impressed because working with WISI, we had the whole thing up and running in about two hours, said Robinson. WISIs engineer in Canada could actually see what we were broadcasting, to make sure everything was OK.

West Carolina Tel also utilizes WISIs award-winning VidiOS  management and monitoring tools. Features include inbound and outbound video thumbnails, stream sample downloads, extensive statistical analysis, and end-to-end process logging. Our techs really like it. They find it much more user-friendly than what we previously had, said Robinson.

All of WISIs video platforms now support SRT, and this new technology promises to make video transport much more economical and reliable for its customers.

West Carolina Tel has always been a great customer of ours, and we are proud to help provide a service that their local communities really needed and appreciated, said Mike Skowronski, VP of Sales for WISI America.

To learn more about the Inca IP Video Platform, SRT, and VidiOS, please visit http://www.wisi.tv.

About WISI

Founded in 1926, WISI has consistently innovated video reception and distribution technology for nearly 100 years. With customers in more than 150 countries, WISI helps video distributors minimize operating costs while maximizing the scale and efficiency at every point in their network. For more information on WISIs Inca, Tangram and Chameleon product families, visit http://www.wisi.tv.

West Carolina Tel

West Carolina Rural Telephone Cooperative, Inc. was formed in 1952. Since its beginning, West Carolina Tel has not only met its primary goal of providing basic telephone service to the rural areas of Abbeville and McCormick counties, and the Starr and Iva areas of Anderson County, but has been able to provide the enhanced services others have come to expect in metropolitan areas of the United States. Its central offices have been fully digital since October of 1993 and by the end of 2001, nearly 500 miles of fiber optic cable had been deployed.
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Linkedin Shaun Tandon (Agence France-Presse) Washington, United States  Thu, October 1, 2020 15:00 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c48711be 2 World Donald-Trump,refugee,US Free

President Donald Trump's administration said late Wednesday the United States will admit a record low of no more than 15,000 refugees over the coming year despite surging global displacement, stepping up its hard line one month before elections.

The State Department announced the number just half an hour before the October 1 start of the 2021 fiscal year, narrowly meeting a deadline set by US law following criticism from lawmakers.

The 15,000 figure -- the maximum who can be admitted over the next 12 months barring a change in administration -- is a further cut from 18,000 last year and down dramatically from more than 100,000 under previous president Barack Obama.

Trump, who has campaigned on fierce denunciations of immigration, already suspended refugee admissions entirely for several months this year citing the Covid-19 pandemic.

Explaining the proposed new numbers, which need formal White House approval, the State Department said the United States wanted to help displaced people "as close to their homes as possible" until they can go back.

"By focusing on ending the conflicts that drive displacement in the first place, and by providing overseas humanitarian assistance to protect and assist displaced people, we can prevent the destabilizing effects of such displacement on affected countries and their neighbors," a statement said.

Refugee advocates had pleaded with the Trump administration to raise admissions in the face of global conflicts and fresh instability due to the pandemic.

Nearly 80 million people around the world are displaced, double the number a decade ago, according to the UN refugee agency.

On September 8, a fire ravaged a bursting-at-the-seams camp that had been attempting to house 20,000 people on the Greek island of Lesbos, a key entry point to the European Union.

Trump's Democratic rival in November 3 elections, Joe Biden, has pledged to raise the refugee cap to 125,000, saying that welcoming the persecuted is in line with US values.

The Trump campaign has run advertisements highlighting Biden's stance on refugees, saying he is "weak" and would bring in people from "dangerous" places.

'No more generous country'

Asked about impending cuts to the refugee quota, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Tuesday that there was "no more generous country" than the United States in providing humanitarian assistance.

"You suggest somehow that we didn't do our fair share when it comes to refugees  nothing could be further from the truth," Pompeo said in response to a question at a news conference in Rome.

"We've taken more refugees inside the United States than any other nation over the course of the last 20 years," Pompeo said.

The United States for years took in more refugees than the rest of the world combined. But last year Canada topped the US as the leader by resettling more than 30,000 refugees, according to UN data.

Democratic lawmakers earlier feared that the Trump administration would not comply with the requirement to provide a refugee number by October 1, making it impossible to admit people.

"We need to restore the refugee program and our moral authority around the world," said Representative Zoe Lofgren, who heads a House subcommittee in charge of immigration.

Trump launched his 2016 campaign on vows to keep out Mexican and Muslim immigrants, accusing them of violence, and took heat after a debate Tuesday with Biden for equivocating on condemning white supremacists.

Trump has frequently assailed German Chancellor Angela Merkel for letting in hundreds of thousands of mostly Syrian migrants.

Syria remains the world's largest source of refugees after nearly a decade of brutal civil war. More than five million people have also fled Venezuela's crumbling economy and political tumult.

Pompeo last week on a visit thanked Colombia and Brazil for taking in Venezuelans and toured a migrant processing center in a Brazilian border town.

The State Department statement on the refugee cap pointed to Venezuela as a case where the United States was focusing on "diplomatic solutions."

The Trump administration has been trying unsuccessfully since January 2019 to topple Venezuela's leftist leader, Nicolas Maduro.
Syracuse, N.Y.  Remember when banks used to return your canceled checks with your monthly bank statement? Frank Muraco Jr. does. He still has a box full of them.

So when the city of Syracuse came after Muraco for a 17-year-old parking ticket, he was able to dig out his personal check from December 2003 and prove that he had paid the $35 fine. He faxed a copy to City Hall last week.
From day one, the Democrats seemed to get many things wrong from numbers to even getting caught on off days. Joe Biden got the energy to hit the sorties. This time, Biden he just stonewalled in a sort of way when he claimed he went to the Delaware State University as a student.

The school answered back and corrected him saying he never went there as a student. He tried to emphatically connect himself with black college. Throughout the Dems campaign, they have emphasized connections with the black community, reported New York Post.

This claim by the aged Democrat was made when he was raining praise on historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in a town hall event. It was held last year in October ahead of the South Carolina Democratic primary, video shows.

He related to students at the Wilson High School in Florence that had its beginnings in 1886 by the Freedmen's Bureau for black children seeking an education. He allegedly said that he started at a mostly black schools or HBCU as democrats like to put it.

He then mentions that anything negative about Delaware State University will not be welcome. Adding they are his folks.

Biden has a way of making claims, in this case very unsubstantiated and it came to bite him back. According to university officials, he only went to the school as a commencement speaker, not a student as claimed.

According to the college's director of news service, Carlos Holmes, told the Washington Times that the Dems presidentiable misinformed students of his so-call stay in DSU.

Also read: Ex- White House Stenographer Said Joe Biden Cannot Keep Up, Relies on Scripts

Sources state that in 2003 and 2016, he was invited as the commencement speaker, mentioning that it was a far cry of his political career. He used to be the Delaware senator from 1973 too.

Holmes made it clear that he never set foot as a student, though he was given an honorary doctoral degree from DSU. It was founded in 1891 and called the State College for Colored Students, just about 40 miles from the University of Delaware, which is different from Delaware State University. Biden graduated from the University of Delaware in 1965 as a political science and history major.

After going to the University of Delaware, he entered the Syracuse University College of Law where he committed the act of plagiarism. He failed a class for that misjudgment.

A look back into his political career, there are rife charges of misleading voters with his many statements. His inaccuracies are about aspects of his education as an important part of his package as a presidential candidate.

Biden has not been the most accurate of speakers because he makes mistakes with numbers. Most interesting in the Harris-Biden gaff that made waves recently. Even repeating it himself calling it the Harris-Biden administration, cited Times Free Press.

One of Trump's comments is that Biden is still in the basement with his cognitive incoherence. Saying that he might take drugs to sharpen his mind in a debate as well.

Biden's troop did not answer on the claims that include being a student at Delaware State University.

Related article: Biden Messes Up with Numbers Again Saying 200 M Died From COVID-19, Teleprompter Needed?

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A National Investigation Agency (NIA) special court here on Thursday granted bail to peasant leader Akhil Gogoi in connection with a case related to inciting violence during the anti-Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) agitation in Assam last year.

NIA special judge Pranjal Das granted bail to Gogoi in connection to a case lodged initially in Chabua police station in Dibrugarh district on a surety of 30,000 and other conditions like non-tampering of evidence and avoiding influencing witnesses.

But the leader of Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS), who was arrested in December last year on charges of violence during the anti-CAA stir, will remain in jail as he is yet to get bail in another NIA case lodged in Chandmari in Guwahati.

Both cases had later been transferred to the NIA. Gogoi had earlier been granted bail by Gauhati High Court in July in connection with three separate cases slapped against him by Assam Police for allegedly inciting violence during the anti-CAA stir.

The court granted bail to Gogoi in connection with the NIA case filed in Chabua. He was denied bail in connection with the case in Chandmari in August this year. The bail application in that case will come for hearing on October 13, Santanu Barthakur, counsel for Gogoi, said.

Gogoi was arrested at Jorhat on December 12 last year for his role in the protests against CAA, which seeks to fast forward citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, Parsis, Buddhists and Jains from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan. Three of his associates were arrested a day later.

He was later handed over to NIA and a court in Guwahati sent him to 10 days custody of the agency on December 17. He was taken to New Delhi the same day for questioning.

Gogoi was brought back to Guwahati on December 25 and has been in judicial custody ever since.

The NIA has lodged the cases under several sections of IPC and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Act (UAPAA) pertaining to criminal conspiracy, sedition, promoting enmity between groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language etc., assertions against national integrity, support to terrorist organization etc.

The three associates of Gogoi, who were also arrested in December last year, are already out on bail.

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New Delhi: The Crime Branch of Delhi Police on Thursday (October 1) again arrested former JNU student Umar Khalid and took him on a three-day remand. Umar Khalid was earlier arrested under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for his alleged role in the Delhi riots. He was in judicial custody.

Earlier on September 24, Delhi's Karkardooma court had sent the Delhi riots accused Umar Khalid to judicial custody till October 22. He was arrested on September 13 in connection with this case. He was sent to judicial custody after the Delhi Police did not seek his further custody.

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In the FIR against Umar, Delhi Police claimed that the communal violence which erupted in Delhi in February was a "premeditated conspiracy" and was allegedly planned by Umar and two others.

Umar has also been booked for the offenses of sedition, murder, attempt to murder, promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, and rioting.

Notably, the communal clashes broke out in northeast Delhi on February 24 after violence between supporters of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, and those against it spiralled out of control. The violence had claimed the lives of at least 53 people around 200 were injured.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-02 02:13:51|Editor: huaxia

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KHARTOUM, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Deputy Chairman of Sudan's Sovereign Council Mohamed Hamdan Daqlu on Thursday arrived in South Sudan's capital of Juba to attend the signing ceremony of the final peace deal between the Sudanese government and armed groups slated for Oct. 3.

"Now the dream has come true and after two days we will sign the peace deal," Daqlu told reporters upon arrival in Juba.

"Leaders of the armed groups will be in Khartoum within the coming days and then we will work together to achieve development, stability and security," he added.

Tut Gatluak, South Sudan's presidential adviser on security affairs and head of the mediation team, said Juba has finalized the arrangements to host the signing of the final peace deal between the Sudanese parties.

"The whole world now bears witness that South Sudan has managed to achieve peace in Sudan," said Gatluak.

He added that "there remains only one file which is the file of negotiation with the Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM)/northern sector, led by Abdel-Aziz Al-Hilu, and he is ready to sign."

On Aug. 31, the Sudanese government and nine armed movements under the Revolutionary Front Alliance initialed a comprehensive peace deal in Juba to end armed conflicts.

The peace agreement included protocols of security arrangements, power and wealth sharing, compensation for the displaced people and refugees, land ownership and realization of justice and development.

The agreement covered five negotiation tracks of Darfur, eastern Sudan, northern Sudan, central Sudan, and South Kordofan and Blue Nile.

Since October 2019, South Sudan has been mediating between the Sudanese government and the armed groups from Darfur, South Kordofan and Blue Nile regions.

Sudan's Justice and Equality Movement, led by Jibril Ibrahim, the Sudan Liberation Movement (SLM) /Minni Minnawi faction, the Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM)/northern sector (Malik Agar and Abdel-Aziz Al-Hilu factions) and opposition groups from eastern, central and northern Sudan, took part in the talks with the government.

However, the SPLM/northern sector led by Abdel-Aziz Al-Hilu has not yet signed the peace deal after the mediation suspended the negotiation between it and the Sudanese government, while the SLM/Abdul-Wahid Mohamed Nur faction refused to join the peace talks. Enditem
Senate Bill Proposes New Intelligence Office to Prevent Agricultural Tech Theft by China

Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) introduced a proposal that seeks to keep U.S. agricultural innovations from falling into the hands of foreign countries, especially China.

The measure, named the Agricultural Intelligence Measures (AIM) Act (S.4768), would amend the Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994, paving the way for the establishment of an intelligence office within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The office would be headed by a director with significant experience serving in the intelligence community, according to the language of the legislation. Meanwhile, the office would act as a liaison between the secretary of agriculture and the intelligence community.

To understand foreign threats, the office would need to work with both the intelligence community and U.S. national laboratories, the bill states.

The office would focus on foreign threats such as theft of U.S. agriculture knowledge and technology, biological warfare, cyber operations, and other means of sabotaging and disrupting U.S. agriculture, according to the bill.

The Chinese Communist Party wants to undermine vital American industries through sabotage and intellectual property theftU.S. agriculture is no exception, Cotton said in a Sept. 30 statement from his office.

Our bill will help safeguard the food and technology that our country depends on for its prosperity and freedom.

A total of $970,000 would be appropriated for the office for the fiscal year 2021, if the bill is enacted.

Cottons bill is the companion version of a House bill (H.R.8238) introduced by Rep. Rick Crawford (R-Ark.) on Sept. 14.

For years, the regime in Beijing has aimed to modernize the countrys agriculture sector. In February 2018, the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party, a group of Party elites, and the cabinet-like State Council, released a document outlining a roadmap for rural vitalization.

The roadmap called for decisive progress to be made by 2035.

In December 2019, Chinas Ministry of Science and Technology said it planned to establish about 30 high-tech industry demonstration zones by 2025 in a bid to create agricultural Silicon Valleys.

A month later, in January 2020, Chinas Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs and the Office of the Central Cyberspace Affairs Commission jointly unveiled a six-year plan for digitizing Chinas agriculture sector, such as expanding internet coverage to 70 percent of rural areas by 2025.

The Chinese regimes agricultural ambition is fueled in part by intellectual property theft and state-run job recruitment programs, as evident by recent cases uncovered by federal prosecutors.

In November 2019, Xiang Haitao, who worked for U.S.-based agrochemical and agricultural biotechnology firm Monsanto and its subsidiary between 2008 and 2017, was indicted on charges including conspiracies to commit theft of trade secrets and espionage. He allegedly tried to take Monsantos proprietary farming software to China.

According to the indictment, Xiang quit his job at Monsanto after being selected as a recruit for a Chinese talent plan.

Zhang Weiqiang, who worked for Kansas-based Ventria Bioscience, stole genetically engineered rice seeds from his employer, attempting to hand over the seeds to a Chinese crop institute. In April 2018, he was found guilty and sentenced to 121 months in prison.

The USDA is currently investigating unsolicited packages of unknown seeds from China, which began to arrive in U.S. residents mailboxes in late July; All 50 U.S. states have issued warnings about these packages, advising people not to plant the seeds.
This file was published on Oct. 1 and updated on Oct. 14.

Millions of acres in California have already burned during this years California wildfire season. But forecasters say that hot, dry air known as Diablo winds in portions of Northern California could make fires even more destructive.

Forecasters in San Francisco braced for the winds, which intensified the Glass Fire that consumed more than 50,000 acres in Napa and Sonoma Counties in early October, to gain strength again Wednesday night, as the area also deals with unseasonably warm weather. The National Weather Service said gusts of up to 50 miles per hour were possible in the North and East Bay Hills areas, raising the risk of fire danger.

Fire officials say the intense winds can make wildfires worse or cause them to spread more rapidly, warning residents to be careful not to spark new flames.

All we need is one little ember, and we can get a really big fire going, said Gerry Diaz, a National Weather Service meteorologist in San Francisco.
- William Ruto said he was the duly elected deputy party leaders and was focused on ensuring no one was left behind in Jubilee

- Ruto said these were interesting times that working from Jubilee party offices seemed to amaze people

- The DP held a closed-door meeting with his allies at Jubilee Party offices hours after Uhuru left the country for France

Deputy President William Ruto has been taken aback on why working from Jubilee Headquarters in Pangani seems to shock Kenyans.

William Ruto held a meeting with his allies at party offices. Photo: Alice Wahome.

Source: Facebook

Ruto said he was the ruling party's deputy party leader and there was nothing surprising about him being at Jubilee House.

Taking to his Twitter, the second in command said he was focused on efforts that are complementary to achieving aspirations while involving everyone in the party.

"These are interesting times indeed! That working from Jubilee HQs where am the duly elected deputy party leader is considered news.

"Our focus is on efforts that are complementary to achieving our shared aspirations while ensuring that no one is left behind," he said.

Ruto was the first one to arrive at the Jubilee headquarters on the morning of Thursday, October 1, just hours after President Uhuru Kenyatta left the country.

This was the second time Ruto made an impromptu visit to the party offices months after his close associates claimed he had been denied access due to the strained relationship between him and Uhuru.

Closed-door meeting with MPs

The DP held a closed-door meeting with a section of Tanga Tanga lawmakers where the media was also blocked from covering.

Notable leaders present were Kandara MP Alice Wahome, Gatundu South lawmaker Moses Kuria, Kimilili's Didmus Barasa and senators Susan Kihika and Millicent Omanga among others.

Ruto allies after the closed-door meeting. They rubbished claims they were staging a coup. Alice Wahome.

Source: UGC

Later on, after the meeting, Tanga Tanga politicians clarified their visit to the party offices was not a coup as their critics suggested.

The MPs said it was not possible for them to stage a coup in their own party since they were still bonafide members of the outfit.

"May I say, this is not a coup of the party because you cannot cause a coup in your own party, House or government. Therefore, let me put to rest your fears," Wahome said.

They said they were in the building just to consult on behalf of the electorate on matters of the ruling party.

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.

This is me coming to you with a heavy heart. My friends left after I got cancer - Esther Nyambura. On TUKO TV.

Source: TUKO.co.ke
Gentry retired from the Louisville Metro Police Department in 2014 after 20 years on the force

Yvette Gentry on Thursday was sworn in as Louisville's second interim police chief in three months, marking the first time that a black woman has been picked for the top law enforcement job in the city.

Gentry, who retired from the Louisville Metro Police Department in 2014 after 20 years on the force, has agreed to lead the agency for the next months, until a permanent chief is named.

Louisville and its police department are going through a difficult period in the wake of Breonna Taylor's killing at the hands of officers executing a no-knock warrant, which has ignited months of protests.

Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer administered the oath of office to Gentry, after describing her as 'experienced, respected' and 'distinguished' during the ceremony at Metro Hall attended by the new chief's family.

Yvette Gentry is seen being sworn as on Thursday as interm chief of the Louisville Metro Police Department

Speaking off the cuff, Gentry said: 'I'm a runaway. I got kicked out of school. I got kicked out of band...But today, I am chief'

'I've been a big fan of Yvette's for a long time,' the mayor said in his prepared remarks. 'She is a champion for our city and for always doing the right thing for everybody.'

In her address the audience, Gentry, dressed in her dark-blue police uniform, spoke extemporaneously, saying she has not written a speech after giving a string of interviews to news outlets around the country in the lead-up to her swearing-in ceremony.

'I know I'm interim, but I represent something different to a lot of people being the first woman to take this title, so I'm not going to shortchange that,' she said. 'My niece ... is here in the front row, she's been wanting to be a police officer her whole life, so I understand the responsibility, the things that you all are putting on me.

'I'm nothing compared to the fact that she's looking at me for the type of example that she deserves to have in her auntie.'

Growing visibly emotional at the conclusion of her off-the-cuff remarks, Gentry said: 'I'm a runaway. I got kicked out of school. I got kicked out of band...But today, I am chief.'

She replaces Interim Police Chief Robert Schroeder, who retired from the force on Wednesday to focus on finishing his doctorate, after standing at the helm of the department since June, reported Louisville Courier-Journal.

Schroeder had been selected for the job after his predecessor, Chief Steve Conrad, was fired for his handling of a police-involved shooting of David McAtee, a black barbecue cook, during George Floyd protests in the city last spring.

Gentry replaces Interim Police Chief Robert Schroeder (left), who retired from the force on Wednesday. His predecessor, Steve Conrad (right), was fired in June over the handling of the David McAtee police shooting

Gentry's first full day as chief of police on Friday promises to be eventful, as 20 hours of secret grand jury proceedings in the Breonna Taylor case are set to be released.

In a recent interview with CNN, Gentry spoke of her eagerness to listen to the grand jury recordings in order to get a complete picture of the case and bring closure to the slain 26-year-old EMT's family.

'I think the truth is what everybody needs. Certainly the family, the police officers that work here need that, I need that as a leader,' said Gentry. 'I can't go making reforms based on information that's not accurate. It will just take me in a direction that's not going to get us better.

The grand jury decided last month not to charge any of the police officers involved with Taylor's death in March; instead, one officer was charged with shooting into a neighboring home.

That decision sparked a fury, sending people to the streets in Louisville and around the country to demand accountability for her killing.

Gov. Andy Beshear, a Democrat, touched upon the volatile situation unfolding in Louisville in a video message that was played during Gentry's swearing-in ceremony.

'I know she comes in with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead LMPD during these difficult times,' he said of the new interim chief. 'I couldn't be more excited about the type of leadership that she is going to bring.'

As interim chief of police, Gentry will be dealing with the fallout from the March 13 killing of EMT Breonna Taylor at the hands of police officers

Former LMPD officer and current chief of police in Syracuse, New York, Kenton Buckner also spoke at the event, issuing a sobering warning and urging the public to tamp down their expectations.

'She doesn't have all the answers. She's smart enough to know that. You know that you're handing her a turd, you know that, and I use that word intentionally,' the plain-spoken veteran cop said. 'Don't expect her to give you back a patty melt in six months. Victory, in some cases, will be putting lettuce and tomato on that turd and stop this boat from rocking.'

Louisville officials expect to have a permanent police chief in place by the start of next year. Gentry, who until recently worked as a project director with Metro United Way's Black Male Achievement program, is not an applicant for the job.
This whole month is an excuse to order pizza to share with loved ones  or maybe just keep it for yourself.

October is National Pizza Month. Although there are a number of other pizza related fun holidays throughout the year, including National Pizza Day in February, National Cheese Pizza Day in September and National Pizza With Everything (Except Anchovies) Day in November.

But businesses across Massachusetts are celebrating this month with deals on pizza. Check out all the deals below.

California Pizza Kitchen has a new Lunch Box delivery deal. It comes with an adult entree and kid entree for $20 or less.

Little Caesars is adding a free two-liter of Pepsi to your pizza order with the code FREE2L3C.

This is a Papa Johns Upper Crust Card. Win one and win A FREE PAPA JOHNS PIZZA EVERY SINGLE DAY FOR A YEAR. Holy pepperoni! And were giving away 4 throughout #NationalPizzaMonth. Starting right here on Monday... pic.twitter.com/NbcDtJbMSa  Papa John's Pizza (@PapaJohns) October 1, 2020

Papa Johns is giving away a year of free pizza to four lucky fans. Each Monday in October, Papa Johns will post fun, simple challenges on Twitter. Fans who complete the challenge and respond to the original post will be entered to win. A winner will be announced each Friday.

Sit. Bite. Chew. Good human! Give yourself a treat with a fresh-made, home-baked BBQ chicken pizza from Papa Murphys. And maybe youll make @_shelby_the_corgi_ envious like her human did. Order online at https://t.co/6Hi5YPMpvN. pic.twitter.com/Da7OtVtL8J  @papamurphys (@papamurphys) September 15, 2020

Papa Murphys is searching for Americas Oldest Frozen Pizza. All you have to do is dig in the back of your freezer, post a photo of it with the expiration date on Twitter and tag Papa Murphys. Three winners will be awarded a oneyear supply of Papa Murphys pizza, a new freezer and a gift card.

Pizza Hut has a few deals. Customers can get a large three-topping pizza for under $10 or two medium one-topping pizzas for $12.99.

Stop & Shop has created pizza bundles for the family to enjoy making together for under $10.

Now, more than ever, people are cooking at home instead of venturing to grab takeout or enjoy outdoor dining, the company said.

Related Content:
Both sides are due to sign the deal in full on Saturday in Juba, the capital of neighbouring South Sudan, after putting their initials to the agreement at the end of last month

Sudan's government and rebels are to sign a landmark peace deal Saturday in a bid to end decades of war in which hundreds of thousands died -- a historic achievement, if it holds.

Ending Sudan's internal conflicts has been a top priority of the transition government in power since last year's ouster of longtime dictator Omar al-Bashir amid a popular pro-democracy uprising.

Both sides are due to sign the deal in full on Saturday in Juba, the capital of neighbouring South Sudan, after putting their initials to the agreement at the end of last month.

The location of the ceremony holds great significance -- South Sudan's leaders themselves battled Khartoum as rebels for decades, before establishing the world's newest nation state.

"This is a historic day. We hope that the signing will end the fighting forever and pave the way for development," Suleiman al-Dabailo, chairman of Sudan's Peace Commission, told AFP.

The Sudan Revolutionary Front (SRF), an alliance of rebel groups from the Darfur, Blue Nile and Southern Kordofan regions, too voiced hope for a lasting peace.

"This day marks the success of our revolution and our fight against the old regime," SRF spokesman Oussama Said told AFP.

"The agreement tackles the roots of the crisis and paves the way for democracy," he said, stressing that it is in line with the goals of the popular revolution, "freedom, peace and justice".

Decades of war

Sudan has been torn by multiple conflicts between the Arab-dominated government that was led by Bashir for three decades and rebels drawn from non-Arab ethnic groups in its far-flung regions.

In Sudan's vast rural areas, settled ethnic minority farmers have frequently competed for scarce resources with Arab herders, who have often been backed by Khartoum.

Tensions have been heightened by economic hardship, especially after the 2011 secession of South Sudan which deprived the north of three-quarters of its oil reserves.

Multiple civil wars have raged since independence in 1956, including the 1983-2005 war that led to the secession of the south.

The devastating war in Darfur from 2003 left at least 300,000 people dead and 2.5 million displaced in its early years, according to the UN.

Under the peace deal, SRF fighters are to be slowly incorporated into joint units with government security forces.

There are however holdout rebel groups who have refused to sign up to the deal.

One of them, the Darfur-based Sudan Liberation Movement (SLM) faction led by Abdelwahid Nour, launched an attack on Monday, the army said.

Another, the South Kordofan-based wing of the Sudan People's Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) led by Abdelaziz al-Hilu, has signed a separate ceasefire.

It allows rebels to keep their guns for "self-protection" until Sudan's constitution is changed to guarantee the separation of state and religion.

South Kordofan and to a lesser extent Blue Nile state have significant Christian populations who have fought for decades to end the imposition of Islamic law by Khartoum.

Pitfalls ahead

Dabailo said the government hopes the holdout groups will come on board "because the document addresses the problems realistically and, if implemented to the letter, will lead to peace".

The agreement covers a number of tricky issues, from land ownership, reparations and compensation to wealth and power sharing and the return of refugees and internally displaced people.

But the path ahead is fraught with pitfalls, warned Osman Mirghani, editor-in-chief of the Sudanese daily Al Tayyar, who asked "what happens to the non-signatories?"

Sudan researcher Jean-Baptiste Gallopin, a visiting fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations, warned that "the agreement is going to be very expensive" for the poverty-stricken country.

"Without outside help, the government will not be able to finance it because the economy is collapsing," he said.

"The financial priority is likely to be the integration of thousands of combatants in return for their demobilisation, and compensation for the victims of the conflicts.

"There is a risk that many of the provisions will remain non-starters. But that is not what is at stake. What is at stake is a reorganisation of the national balance of power between the regions."

In Khartoum, the finance ministry said it is developing a plan to implement the agreement because the region's young people "need to work" and millions of displaced need "help to return home".

"People who have suffered from the war have the right to benefit from peace through development," said a ministry official.

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The family of the 19-year-old Dalit woman who succumbed to her injuries at a Delhi hospital after she was allegedly gangraped in Hathras on Thursday alleged they were being pressured by the district administration against repeatedly changing their statement.

The father of the woman, whose death has triggered a massive outrage in the country and sharp criticism for the UP government, said he was being pressured by government officials and demanded a CBI probe into the matter.

The father, around 50, claimed that he was pressured into going to a police station where the district magistrate and police officials made three members of his family sign some document.

But we are not satisfied with this. My daughters case should be probed by the CBI and monitored by a Supreme Court judge. We are under pressure from officials and confined to our home while the media has also been disallowed from meeting us, he said in a purported video shared by Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Twitter.

The development came as a video surfaced purportedly showing Hathras District Magistrate Praveen Kumar Laxkar meeting the family at their home, where he allegedly asked the womans father to reconsider if he wants to stick with the statement or change it.

Aap apni vishwasniyata khatam mat kariye. Media wale main aapko bata doon aaj abhi aadhe chale gaye, kal subah tak aadhe aur nikal jaenge aur 2-4 din bachenge ... Hum hi bas khade hain aapke saath mein, thik hai. Ab aapki ichha hai, aapko baar-baar bayaan badalna hai, nahi badalna hai...

(You should not destroy your credibility. About the media, I must tell you, half of them have left today the other half would leave by tomorrow morning... two or four more days maybe. Only we are standing by your side, alright. Now, it is up to you whether you want to change your statement repeatedly or not...), DM Laxkar tells the victims father according to the video on social media.

A woman member of the family claimed they were being pressured by the district magistrate and feared these people now wont let us live here, according to another purported video shared by Rahul Gandhi.

Un logon ne mummy ke ulte seedhe video bana rakhe hain, us time haalat aise the ke jiske jo mu mein aa raha tha wo hum log bole ja rahe the... ab ye log humein yahan rehne nahi denge. Ye DM zyada hi chaalbaazi kar rahe hain, pressure daal rahe zabardasti... keh rah eke tum logon ki baton ka bharosa nahi hai, zabardasti bayaan badal rahe. (They have made random videos of mothers statements. Soon after the incident, the situation was such that we were speaking anything that came to our mind... But now they (administration) wont let us live here anymore. This DM is indulging in trickery, he is pressuring us. Says we are not reliable, we are changing our statement, the sobbing woman alleged.

Reacting to the video, Rahul Gandhi in a Hindi tweet said, How long will you suppress the voice of the poor-Dalit-adivasis? How long will you hide the truth? How many more daughters will be secretly burnt? You will not be able to stop the countrys voice now. He also used the hashtags JusticeForIndiasDaughters and HathrasHorror with his tweet.
Panaji, Oct 1 : The Congress in Goa on Thursday condemned the alleged police manhandling and arrest of the opposition party's former president Rahul Gandhi and general secretary Priyanka Gandhi near Hathras in Uttar Pradesh where they were to meet the family of a 19-year-old Dalit girl who was gangraped and murdered.

"We strongly condemn the manhandling and arrest of our former president Rahul Gandhi by BJP government using UP police, when he and our general secretary Priyanka Gandhi were on their way to Hathras to meet family of victim of the 19-year-old girl who was brutally raped and murdered by the goons of UP," Goa Congress president Girish Chodankar said in an official statement.

"Today, in BJP raj sharing grief has become a crime in India. The voice of an outraged nation can't be suppressed with high-handedness," Chodankar also said, condemning the police treatment of the Gandhi siblings and other party workers.
Spain has been insisting for months on the need for safe travel corridors to prop up its flagging tourism industry, which has been devastated by the coronavirus crisis. After a summer described as dismal by many in the hospitality sector, the Spanish tourism industry is now finding an ally in tour operators who are pushing for less-stringent travel restrictions in countries such as Germany.

The British-German travel giant TUI, for instance, has decided to resume its flights from Germany to the Canary Islands, despite a recommendation from Berlin authorities not to travel to Spain. Starting on October 3, the company will offer trips to the islands, with additional guarantees in the event that a client contracts Covid-19, said a TUI spokesperson who spoke with EL PAIS on Monday. Both TUI and the airline group Lufthansa want to see widespread use of fast Covid-19 tests as a way to ensure the safety of air links.

Toward the end of the year, there is no other sun and sand destination in Europe. That is why TUI has pushed its decision forward, since it is expected that Germany will soon lift its warning about travel to the Canaries, said a source from the Canary Islands government. They are starting to program their vacation packages early because they need a few weeks to be fully operational.

Tests instead of quarantines

Authorities in the Canary Islands, which are located off the western coast of Africa, want visitors to get tested for the virus before and after flying to their destination. This would bypass the need for tourists to self-isolate on their return from the islands, presumably making the Canaries more attractive, particularly now that the regions high season is kicking off.

In early September, the German Foreign Ministry included the Canary Islands on its list of risk zones as the region had a seven-day cumulative incidence of the coronavirus of more than 50 cases for every 100,000 people. Even though the incidence remains the same, a TUI spokesperson said that until October 3, passengers may cancel their trips. Or they can choose to go to the Canaries and stay at our hotels, because we feel that in recent days the [coronavirus] figures on the islands have progressed in a very positive way.

The TUI spokesperson said that many German clients were asking why they could not travel to one of Germanys favorite winter destinations. For now, those who do go must take a coronavirus test. And starting in October, returning visitors will have to quarantine for at least five days before taking the test.

But a source in the regional government of the Canaries said they are hoping for better conditions in the near future. With countries that there is an agreement with, a negative test should eliminate the need for a quarantine upon return.

Unified EU position

This measure is part of a wider set of proposals sent by the Canaries to the central executive in Madrid. The draft document, which EL PAIS has seen, also proposes antigen tests, which are faster and cheaper than PCR testing, tracing passengers so their contacts can be tracked in the event of a positive case, and the introduction of safety protocols in stores and other business premises.

Its good to have specific deals with tour operators, but what we want are larger-scale agreements, said a source in the regional government. The tourism minister has our project on her desk and we are awaiting news.

On Monday, Tourism Minister Reyes Maroto held an online meeting with European counterparts to seek a common response that might help reactivate safe travel on the continent. Maroto highlighted the need for homogenous criteria to apply to risk zones, including the use of mutually recognized tests. This, said the Spanish minister, would prevent indiscriminate measures such as quarantines and travel restrictions. The Spanish Foreign Ministry has also been working to reach European-wide deals along the same lines.

Spains summer season was dampened by fresh coronavirus outbreaks and advisories introduced by many countries that recommended against travel to Spain. The slowdown began in late July, when the United Kingdom introduced a quarantine for travelers arriving from the country.

English version by Susana Urra.
A Boeing 737 MAX airliner piloted by Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Steve Dickson lands following an evaluation flight in Seattle, Washington

A top US air safety regulator said Wednesday he was pleased with a 737 MAX test flight he piloted, but that more work was needed to recertify the jet.

"I like what I saw on the flight," said Federal Aviation Administrator Steve Dickson, who called the flight part of the agency's due diligence.

Dickson has "some observations I'm going to share," he said. "That will be incorporated into the process going forward."

The test flight marked the latest landmark in the MAX's torturous path to returning to work after it was grounded in March 2019 following two crashes that killed 346 people.

The crashes have badly dented Boeing's reputation and that of the FAA, which had long been considered the "gold standard" among international bodies.

A withering congressional report released earlier this month slammed both Boeing and the FAA, pointing in particular to failures to sufficiently vet the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS), an anti-stall system that has been seen as a central factor in both crashes.

Dickson participated in a simulator training session on the MAX prior to undertaking a two-hour test flight of the plane that included two landings and checks on the MCAS.

The MAX "responded well," Dickson said. "The training prepared me to be very comfortable."

Next steps in the process include reviewing public comments on a proposed airworthiness directive and finalizing the pilot training regime.

The FAA flight comes after European Union air safety chief Patrick Ky said last week that the MAX could receive certification to fly again in Europe "by the end of the year."

 2020 AFP
Meghan: 'Yeah we're doing well, how are you guys doing? We're very lucky with our little one, he's just so busy. He's all over the place. He's just amazing. He keeps us on our toes, but we're really just so lucky.'

Abbianca Makoni, reporter: 'Why have you decided to launch this project?'

Meghan: 'We all decided to come together and do it. I mean, truth be told, and I was in the UK for a few years until we moved back here, I didn't realise that there was a Black History Month in Britain, and so to have that brought to our attention was really exciting I think, from a standpoint of everything that's going on in the world but mostly just because it's about celebrating community. And really if you're celebrating all of the individuals who are making an incredible impact within our community, then what a great thing to be a part of. I want to highlight those people that I don't know personally and really find their work to be notable but also to ask them to highlight who that next generation is, who those other people are. What it does is just really broaden the list of role models for young British people, and people abroad, black or white, or any other colour for that matter.

Harry: 'I mean, you can only we've talked about this before, you can only be what you can see, and I think you guys touched on it right at the beginning there, which is the UK is incredibly diverse and London especially is one of the, celebrated as one of the most diverse cities in the world, yet if you actually get out on the streets and you actually talk to people, I think it is it's not always as it doesn't feel as diverse as it actually is. And therefore now is the best time for us to be able to use our platform, joint with your platform as well, so that we can actually start a conversation and introduce people to the black community that are making a massive difference within their own communities but across the UK as a whole as well. So I think it's a month of celebration, and of course with a lot of other things going on in the UK and America and around the world at the moment, there can be parallels of connections to that, but essentially for us this is very much a celebration of Black History Month.'

Makoni: 'And why is the project more significant now, especially with everything that's been happening with the Black Lives Matter movement and the protests across the globe?'

Harry: 'For me, it's awareness and it's education and it's teaching. You know, I've had a sort of an awakening as such of my own, because I wasn't aware of so many of the issues and so many of the problems within the UK, but also globally as well. I thought I did, but I didn't. And this isn't about pointing the finger, this isn't about blaming anybody, this is about using this opportunity, this month, to introduce Brits to other Brits that they might not know about or they might not have heard about. And I think the power of community that comes from that is absolutely vast, especially for young black men and young black girls.'

Meghan: 'Well, and I think also what it does is remind people of our share of humanity, and that's the takeaway. It's educational but it's also really exciting just to find more people in the community that are inspirational.'

Lizzie Edmonds, journalist: 'Do you have any reflections on the Black Lives Matter in the UK in particular and does being over in the States give you a different perspective on it?'

Meghan: 'It's a different movement. The impetus is from a place of recognising equality, and if you just go back to its ground level of that, then I don't think there's anything controversial about it. You know, we had the fortune of talking very early on this year, when the Black Lives Matter and the racial justice movement in the US was coming to a head after the murder of George Floyd, we spoke with Alicia Garza, one of the founders of Black Lives Matter. And as she could reiterate, the impetus is really just about reminding people of your worth. And I think, you know, as we've seen different iterations of it, what has been inflammatory I think for a lot of people is when any version of a community becomes disruptive. But when there's just peaceful protests and when there's the intention of just wanting unity and just wanting recognition of equality, then that is a beautiful thing actually. And so, you know, while it has been challenging for people certainly in having to make this reckoning of historical significance that has gotten people to the place that they are, that's uncomfortable for people. And we recognise that, it's uncomfortable for us. And I think when everyone just starts to own that, we push through that and focus on how do we make it different moving forward? And if we just focus on the uplift and the positivity of that, while still acknowledging the past, that's where we reshape things, and that shouldn't be inflammatory at all. That should be really exciting actually.'

Harry: 'I don't know there's not much to add on top of that, it was so perfectly said.'

Meghan: 'That's a hard question for us to answer by the way.'

Harry: 'There's a reason why we decided to do this with you guys. You have the most diverse readership across all of the newspapers, and by the looks of it here but also from some of the material that I've read, you have a diverse workforce internal to the Evening Standard as well, which is not the same for others. So that is something to be celebrated, but again, just because of that, there can be a bias that comes out of reporting, out of society, out of all corners of society, and again that was something that I wasn't aware of, but it became very clear to me. But again, this is for me, this is an opportunity for the people to learn, for all of us to learn.'

Makoni: 'And how did you choose the list of high profile people to help you nominate the trailblazers?'

Harry: 'People that we know. People that we've interacted with over the years, people that have been mentioned to us by other people. Look, you know, this job has a certain uniqueness about it where we travel around the world, but we also visit all the communities, not all, but many communities within the UK, and the same names keep coming up. And we've been really just impressed, humbled and inspired at the same time by these individuals, whether it's Doreen Lawrence, or whether it's, you know, Neil Basu - these are people that are really, that are genuinely making a difference. We spoke to Ashley Banjo a few weeks ago, straight after the Britain's Got Talent situation. You know, that in itself, I am sure even me talking about it will become controversial, but the reality is that he and his team of guys put on the most amazing display of how they saw, or how 2020'

Meghan: 'Sorry, my dog has just come'

Harry: 'And we had such a good chat with Ashley. You know, he was really strong, he felt great about it, but at the same time he was concerned because of the reaction. And again, it's not about pointing the finger, it is not about blame. I will be the first person to say that this, again, is about learning. Learning about what our part is in all this and how we can make it better.

Meghan: 'When you happen to look at some of the names of the people from our list that we know, some of the people that they suggested is really exciting. So for example, Misan (Harriman) had chosen someone who created the black curriculum. And when you start to look at history books and what we're taught, to see it through a different lens, see it through a diverse lens, will help shape how children understand where they come from and then to know better where they're going.'

Makoni: 'This is a cause that's close to your heart along with many other charitable causes in Britain. Is it difficult not being able to be in the UK at the moment to be directly involved in them?'

Meghan: 'Well, you know, I think with Covid, my goodness, everyone has gotten accustomed to what it means to be distanced, right? And so the impact of that, whether it's across the pond or across town, you are still for the most part through a computer screen. So I think we've all had to adapt to how we can have the most impact and influence as possible within the constraints of what has happened with Covid-19.'

Harry: 'Everything has been through video, everything has been in a room somewhere. So actually it doesn't matter where in the world that we've been, we've stayed in touch and we've supported the organisations that we've been affiliated with, as much as humanly possible.'

Meghan 'You know, like all of you, we're doing the best that we can and hoping that our passion and our commitment is still felt, because it certainly hasn't wavered.'
Ms Nana Yaa Konadu, New Juaben North Municipal Director of Health has advised the public to cultivate the habit of drinking more water to keep their hearts healthy.



She said the soft drinks, which many preferred, contained high sugary substances that could raise their sugar levels exposing them to cardiovascular diseases.



Ms Konadu was speaking at the observation of the World Heart Day at Koforidua in the Eastern Region.



The function was organised by the Stroke Association Support Network of Ghana (SASNET).



She said, for the last three years, stroke and cardiovascular diseases were among the 10 causes of deaths in the Eastern Region, and in 2019 alone, 410 were killed by stroke while 269 people died from hypertension.



Ms Konadu said stroke and many cardiovascular diseases were preventable by living healthy lifestyles.



She called on the public to reduce their salt intake, drinking of alcoholic beverages, smoking, eating of fatty foods, and exercise regularly.



The Eastern Regional Chairman of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) Coalition in Health, Mr Emmanuel Minta called for the enforcement of the rules on the use of pesticides to protect the environment and ensure that farmers produced healthy crops for the Ghanaian market.



He called on the government to enforce the laws on smoking in public places and to promote regenerative lifestyles to help improve the quality of health of the people in the country.



Ms Juliet Anaglo on behalf of the President of SASNET, Chief Dr Ben S. Jabuni, called on the government to treat stroke and cardiovascular diseases as public health emergency and develop policies and provide resources for their treatment.



She called on the public to seek immediate health attention at the nearest health institution or called the ambulance when they or their relations have symptoms of heart attack or stroke.

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.

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Karratha detectives have charged a 63-year-old man after claims he behaved inappropriately with children at a swimming pool at a caravan park in the Pilbara.

Police claim the man offered free swimming lessons at the Discovery Parks in Baynton, near Karratha. Credit:TripAdvisor

Police spokeswoman Susan Usher said the man was in a swimming pool at the caravan park on Rosemary Road in Baynton, near Karratha, on Sunday when he approached families offering free swimming lessons to children.

It has been alleged he indecently assaulted an 11-year-old girl after he interacted with a number of children on the day.

The man from Wiluna was charged with indecently dealing with a child under 13 and is due to face Perth Magistrates Court on October 16.
Sarah Collins Rudolphs lawyers noted in a letter to Gov. Kay Ivey that now is the right time for long overdue justice.

Kay Ivey, the governor of Alabama, has written a letter of apology to Sarah Collins Rudolph, the woman known as the fifth girl from the racist bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing in Birmingham in 1963.

Collins Rudolph was 12 years old when a bomb blast ripped through the basement of the historic church, killing her sister, Addie Mae, and her three friends, Cynthia Wesley, Carole Robertson and Carole Denice McNair.

Collins Rudolph lost an eye in the bombing, and she was hospitalized for months. She says that medical bills and the trauma of that event have plagued her for over 57 years.

Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey (left) has written a letter of apology to Sarah Collins Rudolph (right), the woman known as the fifth girl from the 1963 bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham. (Photos by Alex Wong/Getty Images and Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

In Iveys letter, a response to one from Collin Rudolphs attorneys sent to her last month, the Republican governor wrote, There should be no question that Ms. Collins Rudolph and the families of those who perished  suffered an egregious injustice that has yielded untold pain and suffering over the ensuing decades.

For that, they most certainly deserve a sincere, heartfelt apology  an apology that I extend today without hesitation or reservation, she added.

Read More: White Michigan man seeks forgiveness in attack on Black familys home

Collins Rudolph has long sought financial restitution for the decades of physical and emotional suffering she endured, asserting through her attorneys that the Ku Klux Klan bombing was directly incited by Alabamas state leaders, specifically then-Governor George Wallace.

Her attorneys noted in their Sept. 14 letter to Ivey that in 2020, amid nationwide demands for racial equality, now is the right time for long overdue justice.

However, Ivey has not committed to providing compensation to Collins Rudolph or the families of the other girls. She, like previous governors, has questions about the culpability of the state in the attack on the church.

Story continues

Read More: California to develop plan for reparations for Black Americans

Having said that, there should be no question that the racist, segregationist rhetoric used by some of our leaders during that time was wrong, she wrote, and would be utterly unacceptable in todays Alabama.

Collins Rudolph has been invited to meet with Ivey and members of the state legislature to begin discussions on race and to discuss her demands.

She has largely worked as a house cleaner and factory worker for most of her life, and neither job provided health insurance.

Read More: Cuomo calls out Ted Cruz for Trump support: The one who called your wife ugly

Ive contends that she hopes her meeting with Collins Rudolph will help foster fruitful conversations about the all-too-difficult  and sometimes painful  topic of race, a conversation occurring not only in Alabama but throughout America.

Three Klansmen were ultimately convicted of the 1963 church bombing. Robert Chambliss was sentenced to life in prison in 1977 after the state reopened the case seven years prior, and in 1995, an FBI probe led to the convictions of Thomas Blanton in 2001 and Frank Bobby Cherry a year later.

Another Klansman, Herman Cash, who died in 1994, was a suspect but never charged.

Have you subscribed to theGrios Dear Culture podcast? Download our newest episodes now!

The post Alabama governor apologizes to Sarah Collins Rudolph, fifth girl in 1963 bombing appeared first on TheGrio.
YORK  During a press conference this week, Governor Pete Ricketts and Secretary of State Bob Evnen stressed that all measures are being taken to ensure election security during this General Election season.

With the ongoing pandemic, it is expected that more people will be voting early.

While the physical polls will be open on election day, it is still expected more people will be voting remotely.

Early voting has already started  registered voters have to request that a ballot be sent to them in order to do this. Ballots will only be sent to those who request them.

Ballots received via postal service will be accompanied with instructions on how to cast a vote and a return envelope. The voted ballot must be placed in the return envelope. The envelope must be sealed and signed by the voter.

Postal officials say ballots must be in the mail, to your election office, by Oct. 27, to make sure they are counted on Nov. 3.

Only ballots received by the close of polls on election day will be counted. They must be received by the clerk/election office by 8 p.m., on election day.
BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES, September 30, 2020 / -- The World Protection Group, a leading executive protection and drone company, has stepped forward to assist with COVID-19 efforts through expert drone technology. With many cities in the United States facing extended periods of lockdown, residents are left unable to complete necessary tasks and errands, such as picking up important groceries and household items. Research has shown that drones may begin 
The stopgap spending bill has been signed into law by President Donald Trump, ensuring that the government will have funding through to December 11.

This averted the possibility of a government shutdown when the new fiscal year started on Thursday, October 1.

Although there was a brief lapse in the funding of the federal government as President Donald Trump signed the stopgap spending bill within the hour after the midnight deadline.

The government's funding had expired at 12:01 a.m. on Thursday, but no government offices or services were shut down as Trump had immediately signed the bill as soon as he got back from a campaign rally in Minnesota.

Also, the stopgap spending bill had been approved by both the House of Representatives and the Senate. It was also expected to be signed into law by President Trump.

Although this temporary extension only sets the stage for the lame-duck session of Congress, the bill was still necessary because the GOP-controlled Senate has not acted on any of the 12 annual spending bills.

These spending bills fund the 30 per cent of the government's budget that is passed by Congress each year.

The passage of the bill into law was an accomplishment for the Congress, albeit only in small measure, as both parties are still locking horns over other issues such as reaching a bipartisan deal on a second stimulus package for Americans who are impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The stopgap spending bill probably had the least controversy over the other issues before the Congress despite its tight timing with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin agreeing not to include controversial policy measures.

The 10 "no" votes in the 84-10 Senate vote of the bill came from Senate Republicans who were not willing to pass the legislation otherwise known as a continuing resolution.

A continuing resolution, however, is needed to keep the government afloat past an election that could change the balance of power in Washington.

Negotiations for the stopgap spending bill had also hit a snag when the Democrats had not wanted to accede to a request from the White House for a farm aid of $21 billion.

This, after President Trump, had announced at a campaign rally about a new relief for the farmers.

However, Pelosi and Mnuchin were able to hammer out a deal by pairing the funds for the Commodity Credit Corp. with new restrictions which is prohibiting any payments from going to fossil-fuel refiners or importers.

The Commodity Credit Corp. is a program in the Depression-era that is designed to stabilize farm incomes.

While the White House gets what it wants, the Democrats get funding for its priority, the nutrition programs which get an additional $8 billion funding with the stopgap spending bill.

The continuing resolution also extends funding of several other programs such as the highway and transit programs, flood insurance program, and extensions for a lot of health programs.

And, the stopgap bill spending will also fund the possible transition to a new administration should Democrat presidential candidate Joe Biden win.

Check these out:

Stimulus Package: House Vote Reschedules to Thursday as Negotiations Continue

Meghan Markle Loses as Court Allows ANL to Use Biography as Evidence

Kobe Bryant Act of 2020 Signed Into Law by Newsom
Bollywood has reacted strongly against the death of a 19-year-old girl from Uttar Pradesh's Hathras after she was gangraped, in an atrocity that has horrified India. A lot of celebrities have voiced their umbrage at the gruesome incident, and on Thursday, Anushka Sharma and Kriti Sanon have posted about a trend in the vocabulary and reporting of rape wherein they highlight how the victims are belittled. Kriti's post also speaks about how one should try and get justice for the victim.

Kriti Sanon speaks up against belittling a rape victim

On Kriti Sanon's Instagram, the actor wrote a lengthy note against belittling a gangrape victim along with pictures to drive her point home. She began the post saying, "It's not a new story, it's an old one!". She then went on to talk about how many protests, candle marches and condemnations had taken place in the past against such incidents but nothing has changed.

Kriti Sanon also went on to state statistical records saying, "87 rape cases every day in 2019 and 4,05,861 cases of crimes against women during that year- 7% more than 2018". She opines that it is the 'mindset' that needs to be changed along with the 'patriarchal thinking'. She says that girls and boys need to be brought up in such a way that they do not differentiate between themselves.

Kriti Sanon ends the note saying that girls should be told "they are no less and educate them so they can become independent". In the end, she adds, "When Gender Equality will start at HOME, change is inevitable! ". Take a look at her post:

After Kriti Sanon, Anushka Sharma had also voiced her strong opinions via an Instagram story, saying that barely any time has passed and India is hearing about another brutal gangrape, this time speaking about another shocking incident being reported in Balrampur. She asks whether these men even have fear in their mind while carrying out such a heinous crime and as a society how does one protect the women? Anushka also shared Kriti's post on her Instagram story to spread the word. Check out her posts here:

Also Read: Matter Of Shame For Country, Govts: Kejriwal On Hathras Incident

On September 30, Anushka Sharma had also voiced her strong opinion on the Hathras case. She added a story on Instagram calling the crime "horrific" and an "inhuman act". Take a look at the post:

The 19-year-old girl from Uttar Pradesh's Hathras area was gangraped by four men on September 14. The girl battled with her injuries for two weeks before succumbing to them in Delhi's Safdarjung hospital this Tuesday. The cremation was carried out early on Wednesday. The four accused have been arrested and charged with the crime. The UP CM has ordered a fast-tracking of the case and constituted a SIT.

Also Read: On Hathras Case, Kareena Kapoor & Anushka Sharma Devastated; Others Suggest Punishments

Also Read: Hathras Gang-rape: Bollywood Celebs Cry 'hang The Culprits', Condemn Brutal Incident

Also Read: Woman Gang-raped In Hathras Dies In Delhi Hospital

Image credit: Anushka Sharma Instagram, Kriti Sanon Instagram
An intelligence agency source said that Nepal is planning to set up a mechanism - Nepal-China Bilateral Consultative Group on Security Issues (BCGSI) - for military exchange programme between Nepal Army and People's Liberation Army. "It is similar to Indo-Nepal bilateral consultative group on security issues," said the source.

Indo-Nepal ties have been sliding recently, challenging the traditional relationship between the two countries.

The decision is to be taken by the Himalayan country when India and China are engaged in a border spat in eastern Ladakh.

Currently, China is assisting Nepal in military training, equipment and peacekeeping operations. Further, for China's PLA to conduct jungle warfare and high altitude warfare training, Nepal is one of the preferred destinations. Nepal and China's military cooperation started from 1988 and has been ever growing.

Further, China has been investing heavily in Nepal in recent years, rapidly increasing infrastructure connectivity with rail and road links.

Also, policymakers of Nepal had undergone a 13-day offline and online training programme of BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS) in Beijing after China "especially invited" them to attend it.

China had reserved several seats for policymakers of Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) project at its Science Academy in Beijing. The programme started on September 4 and ended on September 20.

The move of China is seen as to challenge the US-based global positioning system (GPS) hegemony and push for its own developed navigation system first in the region. China uses its homegrown navigation system BeiDou for both military and civil purposes.

BDS, stated to be rivalling US' GPS, is the fourth global satellite navigation system in the world. Other systems are Russia's GLONASS and the European Union's Galileo. India too is developing its own navigational system called the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), with an operational name of NAVIC.

Further, Nepal also signed a transit treaty with China to use Chinese ports for its foreign trade in a bid to reduce dependence on Indian ports.

(Sumit Kumar Singh can be reached at sumit.k@ians.in)

--IANS

sk/kr
The authors of a biography of Meghan and Harry were secretly briefed by her friends, court documents alleged yesterday.

Finding Freedom (pictured) was filled with secrets from the Duchess of Sussexs closest friends

Meghans friends reportedly told authors everything from her views on filming sex scenes to what she thought about the Duchess of Cambridge.

Finding Freedom was filled with secrets from the Duchess of Sussexs closest friends, who acted as de facto media relations agents to ensure the book was favourable to her, it was said.

Meghan has denied collaborating with the authors Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand.

But documents lodged at the High Court yesterday claimed that in 2018, Meghan began to be increasingly frustrated that the press coverage she received was not to her liking and did not do her justice.

She and Harry met the writers to discuss ways of helping them to write their biography, it is alleged.

The couple allegedly arranged for their friends to pass on information that could have originated only from Harry or Meghan themselves.

Insights included a detailed account of their relationship, such as who said I love you first, and the former Suits actresss feelings on having to film a sex scene when she was starting her screen career.

The book also featured her views on a Suits love scene which had been uploaded to a pornographic website.

Other examples, the court was told, included details from the duchesss first meeting with the Duke of Cambridge, such as the internal decor of his home.

Meghans relationship with the Duchess of Cambridge and her feelings about the duchess at various times were also revealed, the document alleged.

The birth plan of the couples son Archie and how Meghan felt at the moment he was born also featured in Finding Freedom, along with a detailed account of the Sussexes visit to George and Amal Clooneys villa in Lake Como.

The authors of a biography of Meghan and Harry were secretly briefed by her friends, court documents alleged yesterday

The court document, filed by lawyers for the Mail on Sunday as part of a privacy action brought by Meghan, said: Much of the information in the book could have originated only from [the duchess] and/or her husband themselves.

The newspapers document also alleged that in November or December 2018, Meghan told the communications team at Kensington Palace that her friends were assisting the authors.

Meghan is suing the Mail on Sunday  the sister paper of the Daily Mail  for breach of privacy after it published extracts from a letter she sent her father Thomas Markle.

The newspaper said the letter also featured in the biography and it has been given the courts permission to include the book in its defence for the trial which is due to start in January.
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President Trump didnt hurt Joe Biden in Tuesdays debate, but he badly damaged our country.

Trump harmed the United States in three ways, reminding us that the biggest threat to America comes not from desperate migrants, not from socialists seeking universal health care and not from anarchists in the streets  but from the White House itself.

The first way in which Trump damaged the country was in his salute to violent extremists.

Are you willing tonight to condemn white supremacists? Chris Wallace, the Fox News anchor who moderated the debate, asked Trump. Trump initially dodged the question but finally asked petulantly, Who do you want me to condemn?

Biden suggested the Proud Boys, a militant group that is fervently pro-Trump.

Proud Boys, stand back and stand by, Trump declared.

Stand by?

The Proud Boys, founded in 2016, are part of what the Southern Poverty Law Center calls a fascistic right-wing political bloc. The Anti-Defamation League compares it to a gang. The Proud Boys founder once said, I cannot recommend violence enough, and its members have brandished guns, committed criminal assaults and engaged in rioting. Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram have banned Proud Boys.
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Kulilau, RAIKOS DISTRICT, Madang. (257.2 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) : I was the only one from 6 of us together who felt it slightly because I was sitting by myself not talking to others. Then I looked to the flowers and saw their leaves moving. There was no wind blowing and the time given was exactly the same.

Port Moresby (430.6 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) : Sitting down the chair moved side to side, ground floor. Concrete slab house.

Port Moresby, National Capital (413.2 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II)

Aling kimbe (town) west new britain (176.6 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Strong shaking (MMI VI)

Lae, Morobe (194 km WSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 2-5 s

25 km of Kimbe, West New Britain (169.7 km E of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) : Felt Shakey, went on for almost 30 seconds

Port Moresby, Tubusereia (434.4 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III)

Wewak (626.4 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / not felt

Hoskins, Kasia village (230.2 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV)

Boroko (404.9 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 1-2 s

Lae, Papua New Guinea (193.8 km WSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV)

Kimbe (174.5 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 15-20 s

Kimbe, West New Britain (181.5 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) : No effects on livelihoods

Port Moresby, Geregu Tauriganika drive (418.9 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vertical swinging (up and down) : It hard a swaying effect

Port Moresby 7mile Kennedy Estate (448.5 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III)

Nadzab, Lae (214.3 km WSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 1-2 s

47 km of Lae, Morobe (149 km WSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV)

Port Moresby, National Capital (419.6 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 1-2 s

Kimbe, West New Britain (182.7 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging

Goroka (349.7 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 10-15 s

Pruth Street, Port Moresby (419.3 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 10-15 s

near Goroka, Eastern Highlands (353.1 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 5-10 s (reported through our app / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 5-10 s

Lae (194.8 km WSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / both vertical and horizontal swinging / 2-5 s

Port Moresby, National Capital (414.7 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) (reported through our app / Weak shaking (MMI III)

Umi, Markham Valley, Lae, Morobe Province, PNG / Strong shaking (MMI VI) : It was terrible as I was staying upstairs on a two story house. I thought the epicenter was somewhere nearby. | 2 users found this interesting.

Lae / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 5-10 s : I was sleeping on the bed watching television and the bed started shaking. It shook for about 10 seconds and was very mild

Skyview Estates, 7 Mile, Port Moresby / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single vertical bump / very short : I live in house that is ground level ( not on post) but still felt it while sitting on my bed in my bedroom. This was on Thursday 1st October at around 8:30pm. I thought I was dizzy, but realised it was an earthquake.

Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea / Light shaking (MMI IV) / single vertical bump / 2-5 s : I was outside when I suddenly felt that shake I thought it someone walking i side the house, however, few minutes later I realized it was an earthquake..I am currently living in 14 mile, Central Province, National Capital District But I can still feel the

Hanuabada village, Port Moresby. / Moderate shaking (MMI V)

Port Moresby / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 20-30 s : The light tremor was felt not more than a minute.

Tabubil / not felt
Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper launched the fourth edition of its annual initiative Day of Pho at a press conference in Ho Chi Minh City on Wednesday.

December 12 was officially designated as the 'Day of Pho'  a celebration of Vietnams most popular dish  in 2018, one year after the first 'Day of Pho' was held.

Pho is a Vietnamese soup consisting of broth, rice noodles, fresh herbs, and either beef or chicken.

This years 'Day of Pho is themed Sublimation of Vietnamese Cuisine, Tuoi Tre announced during Wednesday's event at the Landmark 81 skyscraper in Binh Thanh District.

Several activities are planned to be held in honor of the special day, including an exhibition, film screening, the continuation of a contest to find the best pho chefs and a vote-based competition to choose the top ten pho brands most loved by consumers in Vietnam, which were also held last year.

Kajiwara Junichi, general director of Acecook Vietnam, attends the Day of Pho press conference in Ho Chi Minh City, September 30, 2020. Photo: Duyen Phan / Tuoi Tre

In his opening remarks at the event, Do Van Dung, deputy editor-in-chief of Tuoi Tre, said the return of the Day of Pho initiative in the current 'new normal' amid the battle against COVID-19 contributes to the recovery of the tourism industry which has suffered from the pandemic.

Meanwhile, Kajiwara Junichi, general director of Acecook Vietnam, praised Tuoi Tres effort to have organized Day of Pho in the past three years, which has helped promote the event internationally.

Le Tan, vice-chairman and general secretary of the Vietnam Culinary Culture Association, speaks at the Day of Pho press conference in Ho Chi Minh City, September 30, 2020. Photo: Duyen Phan / Tuoi Tre

Junichi expected that Tuoi Tres Day of Pho will keep going for many more years to become a familiar anniversary to both Vietnamese nationals and people around the world.

"Not only the media but also noodle shops, diners, and pho enthusiasts will continue to accompany the initiative, bringing Vietnamese pho to the world, the Japanese executive said.

Likewise, Le Tan, vice-chairman and general secretary of the Vietnam Culinary Culture Association, expressed his hope that pho will be become the intangible cultural heritage of humanity in the future.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
White House economic adviser Stephen Moore confirmed that the Trump administration would send more stimulus checks.

Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi finally met in-person after their first stimulus negotiations failed in the previous.

Though their almost 90-minute meeting on Wednesday did not reach a deal, the White House said the Trump administration is pushing in sending millions of stimulus checks before the elections.

The stimulus negotiation did not reach a deal on Wednesday because of some relief measures that both parties want to include and not to. That will give them more time to have more beneficial relief measures that will help millions of Americans across the country.

Pelosi said: "Secretary Mnuchin and I had an extensive conversation and we found areas where we are seeking further clarification. Our conversations will continue." This is not the end of stimulus negotiation, but rather this shows signs of developments in month-stalled stimulus negotiation.

On Wednesday evening, the Treasury Secretary said that President Donald Trump had instructed his stimulus negotiators to come up with a larger stimulus package. The initial offer of the White House is $1 trillion, and the amount could go higher.

Mnuchin also added that he would be speaking again with Pelosi on Thursday. He reiterated that Trump wanted to reach a deal. In case an agreement on coronavirus stimulus is reached, the Internal Service Revenue (IRS) is already prepared to send the stimulus checks.

The Treasury Secretary also admitted that his conversation with Pelosi on Wednesday was the first serious talk after their last in-person conversation several weeks ago. It can be remembered that he tried to have a meeting with the House Speaker last month but was only told that Pelosi was in another meeting.

Despite these circumstances, Moore said the Trump administration wanted to send more stimulus checks before the election once lawmakers fail to reach a final deal. The White House wanted to send the money within two weeks.

He noted that Trump would do this even he already knew that sending stimulus checks to millions of Americans will have a little impact on his electoral bid and the economy. Trump's intention is to help millions of Americans who continue to suffer amid the economic devastation caused by the global pandemic.

"I told him, 'Mr. President, there's no deal you can get that will help the economy before the election," Moore said.

However, he said Trump indicated that he's still open to send the next round of stimulus checks soon as he is not playing politics.

Meanwhile, the Senate approved the stopgap spending bill to avert a government shutdown at Wednesday midnight, when the 2020 fiscal year ended, and agency funding expires. With the Senate bill, federal government agencies will be funded until Dec. 11.

Trump is expected to sign the bill into law either Thursday or Friday. Aside from this, the President could also issue an executive order to send stimulus checks and PPP loans using the leftover money from the CARES Act.

Check these out!
DAKAR, Senegal: Congolese Nobel Peace Prize winner Dr. Denis Mukwege says an international criminal tribunal is urgently needed to prosecute mass atrocities, including widespread sexual violence, that continue to go unpunished in his country.

Crimes against humanity, war crimes, and even crimes of genocide are committed with impunity in Congo, despite a damning report issued 10 years ago, Mukwege told The Associated Press in an interview via the internet from the Panzi Hospital he founded in Bukavu in eastern Congo to treat survivors of sexual violence.

We know that when crimes go unpunished, it simply means that we have opened the door to the pursuit of more crimes, and the example of Congo is very striking," he said. So today, the Congolese population has spoken out to demand justice.

He said that fighting impunity, since it is the only way to empower and stabilize people, is the only way to work for lasting peace in this region. And this peace needs justice, truth and reconciliation.

The doctor has a groundswell of support in Bukavu where thousands marched Thursday to demand justice and action from Congos government and the international community.

Mukweges call comes 10 years after the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights released a report describing numerous violations of human rights and international humanitarian law in Congo, including more than 617 crimes committed between 1993 and 2003. The report detailed mass killings, sexual violence, attacks on children, and other abuses by rebel groups, foreign armies and Congolese armed forces.

Women and children were the main victims of the violence documented in the U.N. report, which recommended that Congo implement mechanisms of transitional justice. But little has been done, Mukwege said.

In August, Congo President Felix Tshisekedi said that he wants the government to combat the abuses and crimes through justice for past and present crimes.

Mukwege commended Tshisekedis stance saying it could help.

Mukwege also said it is also the responsibility of the U.N. to do what it can for Congo.

The United Nations main mandate is to guarantee international peace and security and, therefore, its responsibility is to use the reports it has issued to bring peace, he said, saying that the U.N. should create an international criminal court for Congo.

We tried everything  Violence has done nothing but has simply created a cycle of violence. Negotiations have been tried, but the negotiations have not solved anything  they have simply allowed these criminals to have positions in the administration, in the army, in the police, and in the security services," he alleged.

International justice coupled with national jurisdiction could be key to be able to say simply to all criminals: Thats not accepted.

Mukwege has recently received widely reported threats against him, his family and his hospital. He said threats come as a result of the climate in Congo that permits violence. The U.N. last month sent peacekeepers to protect him and the hospital, where more than 85,000 women have received treatment for problems from rape or childbirth and have been helped to rebuild their lives in a region with some of the worlds highest rates of sexual violence.

He survived an assassination attempt in 2012 and has faced death threats before.

Today, he says, it is the women who cry for justice.

I am very proud to see heroines, strong women, powerful women who fight not only for their rights, but for the rights of their children, for the rights of generations to come," said Mukwege. He said the women spoke up despite the men who thought they had crushed them definitively.

To those women who may have lost hope after being violated, he added: You are victorious! Dont consider yourself as a woman who has failed  be able to say Im going to fight for womens rights so that Im the last one who is raped.

Mukwege was awarded the 2018 Nobel Peace Prize for his work at the hospital. The award was shared with Nadia Murad, a Yazidi woman who was raped by Islamic State militants in Iraq and has become a global advocate for victims of sexual violence.

___

AP reporter Jean-Yves Kamale in Kinshasa, Congo contributed

Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor
The first specially modified Boeing 777 aircraft, part of the Air India One fleet for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, landed in New Delhi on Thursday after a 15-hour flight from Worth Airport in Texas, officials aware of the development said.

The Boeing jet landed at 3.11 pm on Thursday, a top aviation ministry official said.

The delivery of the aircraft was delayed by more than a month due to operational issues, officials said.

The delivery of the aircraft was scheduled for August 25 but has been delayed due to certain operational issues. It took a few weeks time to deliver, another senior government official said, requesting anonymity.

Also Read: New planes to fly PM Modi, President to have self-protection suites

The Centre had sent a team of senior officials from the Indian Air Force and Air India for escorting the aircraft back to India and assessing the technical requirements, a second official said.

Air India had sent a pair of Boeing 777 aircraft to a Boeing facility in Dallas to be refurbished for VVIP travel.

The government has planned to procure two such specially modified Boeing-777 aircraft, capable of countering missile threats with their own missile defence system, called the Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures (LAIRCM) and Self-Protection Suites (SPS).

The modified aircraft are set to match the US Presidents Air Force One in terms of security measures.

Air India One is the call sign of any aircraft with the President or Prime Minister of India on board. The aircraft is operated as a VVIP flight by the Indian Air Force.

The new long-haul aircraft will be used exclusively by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu.

At present, the three dignitaries fly Air Indias Boeing 747 planes that the state-run airline deploys on commercial flights. These are temporarily reconfigured for the dignitaries when they need to travel, with the call sign changing to Air India One.

The Boeing- 747 planes that are chartered from Air India for use by the three dignitaries are two decades old.

The modified aircraft will also have Bharat and India written on them, along with the Ashoka emblem.

The new planes have been configured to provide generous office space, meeting rooms, a wide array of communication systems and a section for handling medical emergencies. The aircraft can fly between the US and India without having to stop for refuelling.
New Delhi, Oct 1 : Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and his sister and party General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra along with scores of leaders including Adhir Ranjan Choudhry, Ajay Kumar Lallu, Randeep Surjewala and Jitin Prasada tried to march towards Hathras on Thursday but were detained by the police and escorted back to Delhi.

Priyanka Gandhi said "the UP government is showing its arrogance instead of delivering justice it is doing injustice and our struggle will go on." The high political optics saw Rahul Gandhi fall down and police resorting to lathicharge on the Congress workers but the party is now trying to create a 'Nirbhaya moment' in UP to corner the Yogi government.

Image Source: IANS News

It was the 2012 Nirbhaya gangrape case in the national capital that rocked the nation and even the Congress government in Delhi but this time it seems the roles have reversed and Hathras gangrape has occurred in BJP-ruled Uttar Pradesh and the opposition is blaming the government for a cover-up.

Jitin Prasada who met the family of the victim in Delhi, said that "this is pathetic that the government of the day is trying to cover up the whole issue, there is no politics as we only wanted to meet the family." Rahul Gandhi too seen was arguing with police officials that he wanted to go alone but not allowed.

The Congress is seeing it as an opportunity like 'Nirbhaya' which rocked the nation and brought the UPA government to its knees and the party is now trying to build momentum around the issue.

The Congress, since the news broke of the death of the victim, has been at the forefront of agitation from candle march across the state to holding statewide protests.

The opposition is only doing tokenism in UP as Samajwadi Party's top leaders have not hit the roads except local workers while BSP supremo Mayawati spoke only on Thursday to the media. Only the Congress is hitting the roads to demand justice for the victim, said a Congress leader.

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav in a tweet in Hindi said, "After Hathras, a girl has been gang-raped in Balrampur and she has now succumbed. The BJP government should not indulge in a cover-up like in Hathras and must immediately take strict action against the culprits." While Mayawati demanded that the Chief Minister should be sent back to the Gorakhpur Mutt as he is not able to maintain law and order.

While in UP more such cases have emerged as the Hathras incident continues to smoulder, yet another incident of a Dalit woman being gangraped and killed in Balrampur district has taken place.

According to reports, a 22-year-old Dalit college student was raped and brutalised in Gaisari village of Balrampur on Tuesday.

The Congress is up in arms against the UP government since the migrant crisis when the UP government refused to accept buses from the Congress and instead alleging fraud, registered a case against UP Congress chief Ajay Kumar Lallu.

-- Syndicated from IANS
In recent years, there has been a significant growth in interest and activity around all things autonomous and the requirements it brings. For Arm, this led to the introduction of the worlds first autonomous class processor with integrated safety, the Cortex-A76AE CPU and since then, the safety and performance requirements of Arms AE portfolio have grown. Alongside a new CPU Cortex-A78AE and ISP Mali-C71AE, Arm has brought to market its first high performance GPU with functional safety, Mali-G78AE.

The Mali-G78AE GPU has been designed to address the complex requirements for Human Machine Interfaces and the heterogenous compute needed in autonomous systems. It brings the high performance required to deliver mobile class capabilities whilst supporting automotive and industrial safety standards, helping to meet ASIL B / SIL 2 requirements. With its key new features such as Flexible Partitioning and virtualization, this new GPU enables a wide range of use cases emerging in both the automotive and industrial markets.

Click here to read more ...




Ben Delo, 36, is accused along with three other co-founders of BitMEX of conspiring to violate the Bank Secrecy Act

Britain's youngest self-made billionaire and Bitcoin exchange founder has been charged in the US with wilfully failing to prevent money laundering.

Oxford graduate Ben Delo, 36, is accused along with three other co-founders of BitMEX of conspiring to violate the Bank Secrecy Act, according to an indictment lodged with the Southern District of New York on Thursday.

Mr Delo, Arthur Hayes and Samuel Reed, who jointly founded the cryptocurrency derivatives trading platform in 2014, were required to register with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and establish an anti money laundering programme but chose to flout those requirements, US prosecutors allege.

While knowing of BitMEXs obligation to implement anti-money laundering programmes because they were serving US customers, the founders formally incorporated the company in the Seychelles - a jurisdiction they believed had less stringent regulations.

The charges are the latest in a years-long effort by the US to crackdown on a cryptocurrency market that was once largely unregulated.

With the opportunities and advantages of operating a financial institution in the United States comes the obligation for those businesses to do their part to help in driving out crime and corruption, said Audrey Strauss, Acting Manhattan US Attorney.

As alleged, these defendants flouted that obligation and undertook to operate a purportedly off-shore crypto exchange while willfully failing to implement and maintain even basic anti-money laundering policies.

Mr Dwyers legal representatives said: We are surprised and dismayed by todays action. Our client, Greg Dwyer, who complied fully with the CFTC investigation and was never so much as invited to speak with prosecutors in the United States Attorneys Office in Manhattan, always worked in good faith to comply with all applicable regulations and requirements... We will strongly contest these charges.

Mr Delo began his career as a software engineer at IBM, where he was named as an inventor on several patents granted.

Story continues

He then founded BitMEX with Mr Hayes, whose value was estimated at $3.6 billion (2.8bn) in 2018. Mr Delo owns 30 per cent of the firm, which makes his net worth more than $1 billion.

The Sunday Times later that year named him as the UKs youngest billionaire.

Mr Delo, who now lives with his wife in Hong Kong, told the paper that he owns only three pairs of shoes  trainers, a pair of sensible leather brogues and flip-flops and that he and his wife use special offer vouchers when they buy meals in McDonalds.

He has given away millions over the years, including to his alma mater.

In 2019, he signed The Giving Pledge, a programme orchestrated by Bill Gates and Warren Buffett, announcing his intention to give away at least half of his wealth during his lifetime.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 2, ARMENPRESS. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made a reconciliation call addressed to Nagorno Jarabakh conflicting sides, urging 3rd parties not to interfere in the conflict.

Our view is that this has been a longstanding conflict between these two countries in this particular piece of real estate. Were discouraging internationalization of this. We think outsiders ought to stay out. Were urging a ceasefire. We want them both to back up. Weve spoken to the leadership in each of the two countries, asking them to do just that. Were hopeful that in the days ahead theyll see that violence wont resolve the conflicts that are there, the ethnic and political conflicts and strife that are there, and having third parties  other nations  join in that only exacerbates the problem', ARMENPRESS reports Pompeo as saying, speaking to Fox News.

Editing and translating by Tigran Sirekanyan
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nse live Volume Todays L/H More 

Technology-driven financial infrastructure and service provider Computer Age Management Services has started off the first day on a strong note by listing with a massive 23.4 percent premium over issue price on October 1.

The stock opened at Rs 1,518 per share on the BSE, against final issue price of Rs 1,230, which was largely on expected lines given the strong financials, healthy cash position, debt-free status, high return ratios and strong market share.

At 10:02 hours IST, it was trading at Rs 1,505.40, up by Rs 275.40 or 22.39 percent compared to issue price, with volumes of 38.98 equity shares.

The Rs 2,244-crore public issue witnessed a healthy 47 times subscription during September 21-23 due to above-mentioned reasons. It is also backed by US-based private equity firm Warburg Pincus through Great Terrain.

National Stock Exchange having a 37.5 percent stake through NSE Investments exited the company, which entirely offered through the public issue. Hence the company did not receive any fund from this IPO.

CAMS is India's largest registrar and transfer agent (RTA) of mutual funds with an aggregate market share of around 70 percent based on mutual fund AAUM managed. The mutual fund clients include four of the five largest mutual funds as well as nine of the 15 largest mutual funds based on AAUM.

"There is strong revenue visibility for CAMS, as they have a 70 percent market share of the MF registrar business. The leader and bank-led MF are gaining market share which is positive for CAMS revenue visibility. It is an asset-light business model hence end of the year investor can expect a healthy dividend, and there is a possibility that dividends per share might increase every year," Jaikishan Parmar, Senior Equity Research Analyst at Angel Broking told Moneycontrol.

CAMS' revenue grew at a CAGR of 14 percent driven by strong growth in AAUM (around 15 percent CAGR) during FY17-FY20. In the same period, its EBITDA and net profit grew at a CAGR of 13 percent and 12 percent respectively.

"The company carries no debt obligation, thus translating in healthy return ratios with ROCE/ROE of 37/35 percent. Furthermore, it is consistently paying dividend with FY20 payout at 40 percent," LKP Securities said.
Update:

San Antonio police released photos of people believed to be involved in a fatal shooting Thursday.

One person was killed and two others injured in the shooting, which occurred shortly after 2 a.m. on the South Side.

Police are asking anyone with information to call the Homicide Office at 210-207-7635.

Original:

One person was killed and two others were injured Thursday after an incident at a motel led to a shooting at a South Side gas station, San Antonio police said.

When officers arrived shortly after 2 a.m. at the Shell gas station in the 1200 block of Roosevelt Avenue, they found one person with a gunshot wound to the lower torso and was taken to the hospital in stable condition.

FIND OUT FIRST: Get San Antonio breaking news directly to your inbox

Officers said they soon learned that an initial shooting incident took place at a nearby motel. Shell casings were found at both the gas station and the motel.

Officials at the scene said the individual with the gunshot wound at the gas station exchanged gunfire with individuals who were in two vehicles that fled from the area.

While investigating the scenes, police said they learned that two individuals involved in the shootings had been dropped off at Christus Santa Rosa Hospital. One was shot in the chest and died while the other had a gunshot wound to the hand, police said.

Police have not released the identities of the three individuals.

Taylor Pettaway is a breaking news and general assignment reporter for MySA.com | taylor.pettaway@express-news.net | @TaylorPettaway
Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) and UK Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs and First Secretary of State Dominic Raab at their meeting on September 30 (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi  Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc received UK Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs and First Secretary of State Dominic Raab in Hanoi on September 30.

PM Phuc welcomed the UK ministers official visit to Vietnam at a time when Vietnam and the UK are celebrating the 10th anniversary of their strategic partnership.



Vietnam always considers the UK as a leading partner in Europe and the world, he affirmed, expressing his delight at the great strides in bilateral relations in the recent past.



PM Phuc spoke highly of the outcomes of the earlier talks between the UK minister and Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh, especially the issuance of the Joint Declaration on the Vietnam-UK Strategic Partnership: Forging Ahead for Another 10 years, which specifies the vision and cooperation orientations in certain fields.



He emphasised that the UK is a big trade partner of Vietnam in Europe, suggesting the two countries to soon finalise, sign and enforce a bilateral free trade agreement so as to seize cooperation chances and support their post-pandemic growth recovery.



Vietnam always creates favourable conditions for UK investors and enterprises to enter the country to do business, capitalise on their advantages, and meet Vietnams development demand, he noted.



The Government leader affirmed the readiness to continue working with the UK to step up COVID-19 prevention and control, especially medicine and vaccine development, and facilitate all peoples access to them at a suitable cost.



The PM also hailed the cooperation between the two nations at multilateral forums and proposed them keep coordination, particularly when Vietnam is serving as ASEAN Chair in 2020 and a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council in 2020-2021.



For his part, Raab said his visit to Vietnam is part of the UK Governments policy on expanding ties with countries in the Asia-Pacific region.



The UK treasures and wishes to further intensify cooperation with Vietnam, he said, adding that it also hopes to coordinate closely with the Southeast Asian country in promoting connections between the UK and the region and in settling urgent global issues.



He also informed his host about the measures the countries officials had agreed on to strengthen ties in economy, trade, investment, development cooperation, education-training, science-technology, clean energy, and sustainable development so that the strategic partnership will live up to its potential and both sides aspirations.



Raab congratulated Vietnam on successfully curbing the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that the UK highly values its stature and role in the region and the world.



The two countries have maintained and will keep close cooperation at multilateral forums, the UN Security Council, and other international organisations, he said, voicing his hope that both sides will work together to prepare for the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) to be held in the UK in 2021.



The UK supports Vietnam and ASEANs stance on the need to maintain peace, stability and security, resolve disputes via peaceful measures, and comply with international law, especially the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the official added.



On this occasion, the UK minister conveyed PM Boris Johnsons invitation to PM Phuc to pay an official visit to the UK. The host leader also asked Raab to convey his invitation to his UK counterpart to visit Vietnam at a suitable time.
COLUMBUS, Ga., Sept. 30, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- September is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month, and Aflac, a leader in supplemental insurance sales at U.S. worksites, today announced the company's 2020 annual contribution of $1.5 million to the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta has been earmarked for the hospital's Sickle Cell Disease Program. The Aflac Cancer Center hosts the largest sickle cell program in the United States. To date, Aflac has given more than $6 million to the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center's Sickle Cell Disease Program.

To help promote the need for greater attention to sickle cell disease, Aflac also produced and published an informative video about the disease on its social media channels as part of the company's overall environmental, social and governance (ESG) program, which can be accessed at ESG.Aflac.com.

"The worst thing about sickle cell disease is that it often strikes children, who have to endure tremendous pain and suffering because of it," said Aflac Executive Vice President and General Counsel Audrey Boone Tillman. "To see Aflac's commitment to treating and hopefully someday eradicating this terrible disease that predominantly strikes the African American community is a source of pride for our employees, our independent sales force and all of our stakeholders."

Sickle cell disease is an inherited group of red blood cell disorders that causes significant pain and other serious problems such infection, acute chest syndrome and stroke. Treatments include medications, blood transfusions and, at times, a bone marrow transplant.

"Currently, there is a cure for sickle cell disease through bone marrow transplantation," said Dr. Beatrice Gee, pediatric hematologist/oncologist at the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center. "The Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center is one of the largest transplant facilities in the nation, having done more than 100 transplants for sickle cell disease. Aflac Incorporated has donated quite a bit to our program."

In 2019, the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center treated more than 2,050 children with sickle cell disease, including more than 8,700 clinic visits, 3,900 emergency room visits and 2,200 hospitalizations. They also opened a new facility in Aflac's hometown of Columbus, Georgia, making it easier for local families to travel for treatment.

"Aflac's decision to use our voice and our resources by earmarking this $1.5 million in funding specifically to sickle cell disease is something I am extremely proud of because these kids are worth it," Tillman said.

ABOUT AFLAC INCORPORATED

Aflac Incorporated (NYSE: AFL) is a Fortune 500 company, helping provide protection to more than 50 million people through its subsidiaries in Japan and the U.S., where it is a leading supplemental insurer by paying cash fast when policyholders get sick or injured. For more than six decades, insurance policies of Aflac Incorporated's subsidiaries have given policyholders the opportunity to focus on recovery, not financial stress. Aflac Life Insurance Japan is the leading provider of medical and cancer insurance in Japan, where it insures 1 in 4 households. Fortune magazine recognized Aflac as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work for in America for 20 consecutive years. For 14 consecutive years, Aflac has been recognized by Ethisphere as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies. In 2020, Fortune included Aflac Incorporated on its list of World's Most Admired Companies for the 19th time, and Bloomberg added Aflac Incorporated to its Gender-Equality Index, which tracks the financial performance of public companies committed to supporting gender equality through policy development, representation and transparency. To learn how to get help with expenses health insurance doesn't cover, get to know us at aflac.com.

Aflac | Aflac New York | WWHQ | 1932 Wynnton Road | Columbus, GA 31999.

Media contact: Jon Sullivan, 706.573.7610 or [email protected]

Analyst and investor contact: David A. Young, 706.596.3264 or [email protected]

SOURCE Aflac

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A Chinese auto show girl has been filmed wrapped in a black sheet and carried off the stage by a dozen security guards after she urged people to avoid buying the cars that she was supposed to promote.

The woman ran onto the stage during an international motor show in Beijing on Saturday after she claimed she had been mistreated by her employer.

Footage shows the crying model standing next to a display vehicle from Chinese automotive brand Geely as she told the crowd not to buy the cars.

A Chinese model was filmed wrapped in a black sheet and carried off the stage by a dozen security guards after she urged people to avoid buying the cars she was meant to promote

Chinese media initially reported that the woman was a Geely owner. But a senior executive from the Chinese motor company denied the claim, adding that she was a car model hired by an event management company.

The incident sparked outrage on Chinese social media after footage of the woman being tackled and carried off the stage was widely shared over the weekend.

The woman is seen in the clip crying on the stage as she claimed she had been treated unfairly by her employer who did not care about her.

She can be heard shouting at the crowd in the video: Do you guys think you would dare to buy this car, hinting that the vehicles were unreliable.

After a few staff members failed to drag the car model off the stage, the woman was then wrapped in a giant black sheet.

She was screaming dont touch me and let me go as she was carried off the stage by a group of security guards.

It was initially reported that the woman was a Geely owner. But a top official from the Chinese motor company denied the claim and said that car model was hired by the eventcompany

Yang Xueliang, the vice president of Geely, later said in a social media post that the auto show girl had been employed by another company which was hosting the motor event.

He also attached a formal apology letter issued by the event management company, which said the car model had been unsatisfied about some adjustment at work and lost control of her emotions.

[She] ran onto the stage from the back, hitting the display vehicle and attacking the staff members who were trying to restrain her, the statement read.

To prevent the situation from worsening and the woman from being injured, our security staff covered her in a sheet, removed her and called police. the company added.

The woman is said to have reached an agreement with her employer at the police station.
Nigeria marks the 60th anniversary of its independence on 1 October. The most populous country in Africa, with 200 million people, is blessed with abundant natural resources. But it has yet to meet the aspirations of its population and compete economically on the world stage.

Modern Nigeria dates from 1914 when British colonial masters amalgamated the Lagos Colony with the Northern and Southern Nigeria protectorates. But it was on 1 October 1960 that the country gained its independence, becoming a republic in 1963.

Nigeria adopted a parliamentary system of government. The executive powers were initially vested in the Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, while Nnamdi Azikiwe became president, a largely ceremonial post.

The country was divided into three regions: Northern, Southern and Eastern, each governed by a premier.

Nigeria had a bicameral legislature at the national level, based in Lagos, while each region had its own unicameral legislature.

The Tafawa Balewa administration ran the country for six years before being ousted by the military in 1966. Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi took over as Head of State, but his administration was short-lived; Colonel Yakubu Gowon staged a countercoup and took over the leadership.

Biafran War

The removal of Aguiyi-Ironsi led to the Nigerian civil war when Lieutenant Colonel Chukwuemeka "Emeka" Odumegwu-Ojukwu led some military officers and soldiers to establish the breakaway Republic of Biafra in 1967, an action that led to the deaths of hundreds of thousands of people.

Colonel Gowon, himself a northerner, led the Nigerian army offensive against Biafra. His name, "Gowon" became an acronym meaning "Go On With One Nigeria". The Biafran war ended on 15 January 1970.

Gowon declared at the end of the war that "there was no victor, no vanquished". He further brought in the policy of the 3Rs: Rehabilitation, Reintegration and Reconstruction for the Ibos, the majority population in south-eastern region of Nigeria which had supported Biafran independence.

Story continues

Since 1970, Nigeria has endured a succession of military regimes led successively by, among others, Murtala Muhammed/Olusegun Obasanjo, Muhammadu Buhari/Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, Sani Abacha/Abdusalami Abubakar.

Ever since the coup which ended the country's first republic, each administration came with the declared aim of fighting corruption and correcting the ills of the previous government, but mostly ended up worse than the administration before.

The Yakubu Gowon government, despite the civil war, enjoyed an oil boom and built an enormous amount of infrastructure, but refused to hand over to a civilian administration, a refusal which led to its ouster by the Murtala-Obasanjo regime.

General Murtala Muhammed's tenure as military Head of State was short-lived following his assassination, but Obasanjo took over, handing control to Shehu Shagari in 1979. It was Murtalas administration that first purged corrupt civil servants and also initiated a plan to move the countrys capital to Abuja which was accomplished under military head of state, Ibrahim Babangida.

The Shehu Shagari second republic ended after the 1983 elections. The opposition alleged rigging and the military cited corruption among government officials as the reason for their coup.

From Buhari to Babangida to Abacha

The Muhammadu Buhari military administration jailed hundreds of politicians for alleged corruption, but an insider coup removed Buhari 20 months after he took over. Ibrahim Babangida became president.

The Babangida administration is viewed by many Nigerians as the government that institutionalised corruption among public officials.

The government also benefited from another oil boom as a result of the Iraq war, but millions of dollars from the sale of oil were never accounted for by the administration.

Babangida can be credited with the establishment of infrastructure and also with moving the nations capital, finally, to Abuja from Lagos.

His plan to install a civilian administration failed. More political turmoil plagued Nigeria in the following years, with one military coup after another preventing the advent of civilian rule.

In 1993, Chief MKO Abiola was widely believed to have won the presidential election. Under pressure, he quit and installed a lame interim government headed by Chief Ernest Shonekan.

Inevitably, Shonekan was soon ousted by another senior officer, this time General Sani Abacha.

Under Abacha, Nigeria faced international sanctions and pressure to bring in a civilian administration.

After the death of Abacha, funds worth millions of dollars were discovered in several banks around the world. Efforts to repatriate the stolen money are still ongoing.

General Abdusalami Abubakar hurriedly organised the 1999 elections, and Olusegun Obasanjo was voted in as president. Obasanjo became a civilian president and worked hard to relaunch Nigeria at the international level. He succeeded in securing a debt pardon which gave Nigeria breathing space, but one of his major failures was his inability to provide sufficient energy, despite spending $30 million, an action which still haunts the country.

Boko Haram insurgency

Obasanjo's successor, Umaru Musa Yar Adua, did not live long due to ill health and he was replaced by Goodluck Jonathan.

Jonathans administration was marked by the Boko Haram insurgency, to this day still causing death and destruction in the north of the country. One of the most traumatic episodes was the kidnapping of more than 250 Chibok schoolgirls, some of whom are still to be accounted for.

Corruption scandals also marred Jonathan's mandate.

The Buhari administration, despite its promise to crack down on corruption, is also faring little better than previous governments. It also faces the ongoing Boko Haram menace.

Before the discovery of oil, the mainstays of the Nigerian economy were agriculture, tin and the iron ore known as columbite. Oil revenues were used by successive administrations to build infrastructure.

But oil became a curse for Nigeria as governments neglected agriculture and other development potential to depend heavily on the commodity whose earnings created massive corruption among government officials.

Bad leadership, widespread corruption, ethnic rivalry and conflicts, religious crises were some of the major obstacles that hindered Nigerian development and led to mistrust and suspicion among its people.

A vast country in search of national unity

The advent of the Niger Delta militancy, the Odua Peoples Congress, the OPC group in the southwest, the Boko Haram insurgency in the northeast, armed bandits in the northwest, recurrent clashes between herdsmen and farmers in central Nigeria, and kidnappings for ransom, have led to the killings of thousands of people and also shaken the institutional foundations of the country.

At 60, Nigeria has still to realise its full potential as a united entity, as groups and sections of the country continue to clamour for the holding of a national conference to renegotiate the basis of Nigerian unity.

Even with the on-going democratic dispensation, some people feel they are not represented at the level at which crucial decisions are made, hence the continued agitation for conferences to address issues that threaten the very existence of the country.
T his is a wonderful book thats both hard to put down and brilliantly insightful in its analysis of the ways in which conspiracy theories and so-called alternative facts are constructed and justified - and why theyre such nonsense. The focus of author Richard Evans, one of our countrys foremost historians, is five conspiracy theories surrounding Adolf Hitler and the Nazis, which he takes apart with great clarity and plenty of acidic swipes at their proponents. The five include whether the Holocaust was inspired by the forged Protocols of the Elders of Zion, which claimed, entirely fictitiously, to expose a Jewish masterplan for world dominance - as well as the supposed burning down of the Reichstag in 1933 by the Nazis to enable their seizure of power. He also takes apart claims that Rudolf Hess made his mysterious flight to Britain in 1941 to convey a secret peace deal offered by Hitler, the notion that the Nazi dictator escaped at the end of the Second World War, and the stab in the back myth surrounding Germanys defeat in 1918.

The established facts about each event, and why the conspiracists are wrong, are set out lucidly in succeeding chapters of detective style sifting of the evidence that provide enjoyably insightful reading in their own right. But at a time when social media is helping conspiracy theories spread rapidly and with claims of fake news predictably engulfing the US presidential campaign, the lessons that Evans imparts about how to distinguish truth from fiction have a universal value that stretches beyond improving knowledge about the detail of Nazi era controversies.

Evans points out for example how conspiracy theories often rely on documents or human sources that cant be located, never existed, or have conveniently disappeared so that the evidence they supposedly provided cant be checked. Coincidences arent allowed, so events at the heart of a conspiracy theory must have been planned, however much the facts show otherwise. Individuals, whether it be Hess, the Nazis deputy leader, or Marinus van der Lubbe, the lone arsonist who confessed to burning down the Reichstag of his own volition, cant have acted alone either in the conspiracy theory view of the world  even though in both cases theres not a scintilla of verifiable evidence to show that others were involved.

Another conspiracy theory tactic is to deride historians who dont accept their views as official or traditionalist writers who are somehow in hoc to the authorities. Its nonsense, of course, as Evans makes clear, saying that working out what really happened in history requires a great deal of hard work.. direct evidence.. a willingness to change ones mind and the abandonment of prejudices and preconceptions when facts tell against them. By contrast, the conspiracy theorists tend to blow out of all proportion any tiny piece of evidence that appears to support their ideas or try to connect events without any link. Others try to undermine the character or motive of those who oppose them, rather than confronting the actual argument.

The tissue of coincidences and connections they spin is no substitute for facts, is how Evans dismisses the case put forward in one of the conspiracy theories he dismantles in a rebuke that could apply to them all. He later describes Hitlers supposed escape from his Berlin bunker  where he committed suicide in 1945  as involving a conspiracy without conspirators because of the absence of any proof that anyone helped him either flee or escape detection for many years afterwards in his imaginary sanctuary in South America.

At times its possible to sense the exasperation felt by this eminent historian that hes having to bother devoting energy to dismantling the claims of those whose methods are so much less rigorous than his own.

Indeed, the only reason not to pick up this book would be that the reader, like the author, has to spend time digesting the delusional fantasies of the various conspiracy theorists whose claims are so effectively rubbished inside. But Evans performs his task with such withering and entertaining wit that its worth putting up with the nonsense to enjoy the brilliant demolition.Towards the end , Evans highlights the undeservedly high ratings given on Amazon by reviewers of some of the books hes trashed. But theres no need to doubt the top marks that his book deserves. Its a 5 out of 5 masterpiece.

The Hitler Conspiracies: The Third Reich and the Paranoid Imagination by Richard J Evans (Allen Lane, 20), buy it here.
Dir: Sofia Coppola. Starring: Rashida Jones, Bill Murray, Marlon Wayans, Jessica Henwick, Jenny Slate. 12A cert, 97 mins

Sofia Coppolas latest opens with the husky, melodious voice of Bill Murrays Felix. He tells his young daughter, Laura: Remember, dont give your heart to any boys. Youre mine until you get married... Then youre still mine. On the Rocks explores what its like to live under the shadow of a parent who looms so large, lives so boldly, that their progeny is left feeling more like an accessory than a fully rounded individual. Presumably, Coppola, daughter of Francis Ford, can relate on some level. There are a handful of other parallels to the directors own life here. Laura, in her later years (and played by Rashida Jones), has two daughters, as does Coppola. Both of them live in Manhattan, comfortably and in effortless glamour. Its tempting, even, to position the film as a spiritual successor to Lost in Translation (2003). There was an element of self-portraiture to Scarlett Johanssons lonesome waif. The same appears to be true here.

And yet, things have changed in the passing years. On the Rocks is the most grounded of Coppolas films, though its wit and charm are just as plentiful. The director sets all her stories in hermetically sealed worlds of wealth and privilege, but her young characters have always been depicted as rare birds trapped in gilded cages  quite literally when it came to the housebound Lisbon sisters of The Virgin Suicides (1999). Laura feels trapped in a different way, suspended between the two biggest influences in her life, her father and her husband (Marlon Wayanss Dean, enigmatic throughout). Felix, an art dealer, dotes on her; he playfully calls her shortie and kiddo. On a night-time excursion, he brings her American caviar packed in a branded cooler bag.

But hes an old-school chauvinist, fixated on the image of himself as an aristocratic playboy. Felix flirts with every new woman he meets (at one point, he correctly guesses that their long-limbed waitress trained as a ballerina). He insists that hes going deaf specifically to the sound of womens voices  I think its the pitch. Felix may act suave, but theres no doubt hes left a path of casual cruelty in his wake. Lauras husband, meanwhile, is loving when hes present, but frequently distracted by work. She has started to suspect that he might be cheating on her. Her father immediately seizes on the idea as proof of mans primal nature. Males are forced to fight to dominate and impregnate all females, he tells her, attempting to pass it off as a piece of wisdom. Its more likely hes trying to soothe the guilt of his own past infidelities.

Felix (Bill Murray), an art dealer, dotes on his daughter Laura (Rashida Jones) (A24)

Coppola leans into screwball comedy here, since Murray and Jones make for such delightful opposites: hes eccentric with a thick layer of despondence; shes a beacon of calm and reason. Murray doesnt quite replicate his performance in Lost in Translation  Felix is far better at hiding his loneliness  but offers proof that hes always at his most sparkling when working with Coppola (the pair also collaborated on 2015s A Very Murray Christmas).

On the Rocks contains no great revelations. No one whispers the secrets of the universe into anothers ear. Lauras transformation is a quiet one, a gentle untethering from the restrictions shes put on herself as someones daughter and someones wife, and into a more rounded sense of self. Cinematographer Philippe Le Sourd frames New York in a way thats less glitzy and stimulating than the Tokyo of Lost in Translation, but rich with the private pleasures of nightcaps in gold-lit bars and streets bathed in a rich, velvety darkness. Coppolas film is a comfort to sink into.
CHICAGO, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Jermikko Design - headquartered in Chicago and best known for pioneering fashionable coats, jackets and the inventive, dual-patented, SwapOut Hoodie, made popular by Beyonce's Lemonade music video - is once again disrupting the fashion industry by launching the JERMIKKO UNZIP EASY DRINK 'N' EAT FACE MASK in light of COVID-19 safety protocols. Made of 100% anti-microbial cotton, treated for 95% safety and designed for functionality and convenience, the JERMIKKO UNZIP EASY DRINK 'N' EAT FACE MASK is tailored for eating, drinking and breathing in public, without having to remove the mask completely. The practically designed mask includes a zipper conveniently located down its center, which can be easily zipped and unzipped for optimal functionality.

Jermikko Shoshanna, Owner & Executive Fashion Design Director of Jermikko Fashion and inventor of the JERMIKKO UNZIP EASY DRINK 'N' EAT FACE MASK, is a nationally recognized history-maker and documented in the Library of Congress as a style maker. No stranger to innovation, Shoshanna has pioneered the industry since the 1970's and isn't slowing down anytime soon. In fact, the Chicago-born designer was recently awarded a contract by Chicago Mayor, Lori Lightfoot, to design and produce more than 304,000, cloth face masks, during the height of COVID-19. Jermikko's masks were assessed to be the best quality, fit, and highest safety factor and use for personal protection.

In 2014, Jermikko Fashion changed athleisure wear forever by inventing the SwapOut Hoodie - an interchangeable, zip-apart, complete garment that creates an unending amount of color options for the hoodie wearer. This iconic design not only caught the attention of celebrities like Beyonce, but also recognized Jermikko as the first African American in history to ever receive a patent on a wearable garment.

Months prior to inventing the JERMIKKO UNZIP EASY DRINK 'N' EAT FACE MASK, Jermikko had a vision to create a face mask that allowed wearers to easily navigate daily life functions such as eating and drinking without having to store masks in a pocket, purse or other place that could potentially carry a virus. Moving on intuition alone, Shoshanna designed a prototype for the mask and filed a patent on her new vision. Thus, the JERMIKKO UNZIP EASY DRINK 'N' EAT FACE MASK was invented.

"My radical faith has always driven my inspiration, and inventing a face mask in the middle of a global pandemic is a testament to it," says Jermikko Shoshanna, the first designer of color to win the Apparel Industry Board of Illinois' 1997 "Designer of the Year" award. "My designs have always challenged the boundaries of fashion, and I create authentic pieces that help the greater good. As a result, orders of the face mask are starting to pour in, and I am actively seeking licensing opportunities that will allow my invention to be manufactured and sold on a global scale."

The JERMIKKO UNZIP EASY DRINK 'N' EAT FACE MASK is available in a selection of colors and patterns. Each mask currently retails for $25.60 USD; for licensing opportunities contact [email protected].

ABOUT JERMIKKO DESIGN

Jermikko Design holds an historical record as Chicago's first African American and woman-owned factories and longest established design manufacturer, in earlier years employing more than 40 individuals in a 30,000 square-foot factory on Chicago's northside. It is best known in the fashion and retail industry for revolutionizing outerwear with its colorful, shapes, styles, print, applique, and designs sold nationally and internationally. The company is also a certified supplier to the Department of Defense and has created, supplied, and manufactured clothing for all branches of the armed services for more than 20 years. Additionally, Jermikko Fashion has designed clothing for national ad campaigns, including jackets and coats for the Marlboro Man and Tanqueray Gin; its designs have also appeared in movies and tv shows such Spike Lee's "Chiraq," CBS's "Touched by an Angel," and FOX TV's "Empire," to name a few. For more information about Jermikko Fashion, visit www.jermikko.com.

SOURCE Jermikko Design
- Martha Karua, who is also christened Kenya's iron lady, is a woman whose audacity runs deep

- In a moment that made headlines and went down in the books of history, she openly defied the late president Moi by walking out of a presidential meeting

- The former Gichugu MP left the stadium in Kirinyaga when Moi took the dais for his speech and no one tried to stop her

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Narc Kenya party leader Martha Karua is a politician whose bravery and principles have earned her praise and condemnation in equal measure throughout her career.

Martha Karua walked out of a presidential meeting in Kirinyaga after the Opposition was insulted. Photo: Martha Karua.

Source: UGC

Karua, who was among the figures that agitated for multi-party politics in the early 90s, has proved she is a brave and courageous woman who does not fear expressing her thoughts and these are some of the qualities that have earned her the iron lady tag.

In one of the most audacious and defiant moments in her political career, the iron lady made headlines after fearlessly walking out of a presidential event.

Moi in Kirinyaga in 2001

It was Saturday, June 16, 2001, when Moi visited Kirinyaga county which by then was predominantly Opposition as it was among former president Mwai Kibaki's strongholds.

Though many MPs did not show up for the meeting, Karua, who was also the Gichugu lawmaker then, decided to honour Moi despite being a diehard Opposition, in the fundraising event.

Mzee Moi had gone to Kirinyaga for an event when Karua walked out. Photo: UGC.

Source: UGC

The fundraiser was to happen at Moi Kerugoya Stadium but she first met the then head of state at Kerugoya Girls and they all proceeded to the stadium for the function.

"All was going well until one of Moi's local chairman started talking ill of the opposition. Actually, he said we, the opposition, are mad to imagine that Kenya could ever be ruled from Othaya, that is, thinking Mwai Kibaki would ever become president," she said in a past interview with KTN.

The lioness had been rattled. She tried asking the Kenya National African Union (KANU) members who were seated next to her to tell Moi she needed to speak, at least to reply to the insolent remarks against the Opposition.

The head of state heard her agitated voice calling out for a chance to speak and when he turned to her direction, Karua asked Moi how he could allow the Opposition to be disrespected in her presence.

Martha Karua was disappointed when the Opposition was disrespected in her presence. Photo: Martha Karua.

Source: Facebook

The dramatic walkout

Mzee Moi's government dealt brutally with critics but this did not seem to bother Karua whose goal at that moment was to prove the Opposition was Constitutionally mandated to be in place.

"I started surveying and saw that where the president was going to speak there was an entrance but I thought security-wise it would look like I am attacking him. But there was another entrance on the left said and that was where I would use," the former Justice Minister recalled.

When it was Moi's time to speak, Karua gathered her things, and when the ministers around her noticed she was preparing to leave, they tried to beg her to stay but her mind was made up.

If she would not be given a right to reply on the dais, she would let her body do the talking.

"I just went in front of Moi's dais, gave him the DP party salute and walked away," she said.

Though KANU people tried making some noise, dead silence followed as Karua majestically walked out of the stadium still making the salute and no one tried to stop the iron lady. Not even the police.

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China's new "dual-circulation" development pattern does not mean seclusion, but rather is aimed at a higher-level of opening-up with better utilization of the country's comparative advantages related to international value chains, regional developments and the domestic market, a senior economist said.



Cai Fang, vice-president of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said the new development pattern efficiently "combines opening-up and domestic development" in response to changing international and domestic situations.

"China used to have comparative advantages in developing labor-intensive industries with its abundant and cheap labor to export goods to the international market and benefit from globalization," he said.

"It is time for China to upgrade its development pattern, as the world economy has entered a long period of stagnation and is bothered by protectionism and an anti-globalization movement while, at the same time, China's labor costs are soaring and the domestic market is growing."

Cai's remarks came after China floated the dual-circulation economic development pattern that positions the domestic market as the mainstay while letting internal and external markets boost each other.

Analysts said the pattern is a viable solution for China to build up resilience against external uncertainties and share its opportunities for development with the rest of the world.

They said the pattern underscores a message of rebalancing the Chinese economy from an export-and investment-driven one to one more focused on domestic demand as a continuation of the government's stated goals in the past.

"The international division of labor is going deeper into global value chains, from the trade of simple goods," Cai said.

"As a manufacturing powerhouse for the world, China has comparative advantages not only in exporting goods, but also in some links of the international value chains, which can help further spur opening-up."

In addition, when one country loses its comparative advantage in labor-intensive industries, such industries will move to other economies. But with China, there is a second chance to keep those industries, according to Cai.

Due to its massive size, unbalanced regional development and various resource locations, the country is able to move industries in which its coastal areas no longer have comparative advantages to the inland regions, where labor is cheaper, he said.

He added that such relocations will give China more time to adjust to new situations while upgrading its economy. Moreover, China's growing domestic market is becoming its source of advantage on the demand side, Cai said.

"China has a population of 1.4 billion, of which 400 million are considered as middle-income, which means there's a huge domestic consumer market with rapid growth potential," he said. Therefore, he added, China's foreign trade partners and investors have attached more importance to the Chinese market.

Official data show China's consumer spending contributed 57.8 percent to GDP growth last year.

In 2019, China's GDP per capita exceeded $10,000 for the first time in history, indicating a huge consumer scale and growing supply capacities.

Cai said it is crucial to tap domestic market potential. Advisable ways to do that include increasing people's incomes, improving income distribution and enhancing basic public services, he said.

In particular, he suggested further reforms in the country's household registration system to ease restrictions for rural residents applying for urban hukou, or household registration status.

Such reforms will help boost a new type of urbanization and further unleash the country's consumer market potential, he said.

Currently, more than 60 percent of China's population lives in cities, but only about 44 percent of the total population has an urban hukou.

Migrant workers living in cities do not enjoy the same public services in terms of pension, healthcare, education and housing as those who hold an urban hukou, which makes them reluctant to spend. When they reach the ages of 40 or 50, they are likely to move back to their hometowns, where they can only acquire lower paying jobs, Cai explained.

With an urban hukou, migrant workers will live and work longer in cities and enjoy more disposable incomes, he added.
Goa Election 2022: Kejriwal hits back on Chidambaram, says Stop crying, Cong is hope for BJP, not Goans'

Chidambaram slams PM Modi's 'Namaste Trump' rally after US Presidential Debate

India

oi-Ajay Joseph Raj P

New Delhi, Oct 01: Congress leader P Chidambaram on Thursday slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi asking if he would call for "Namaste Trump" rally to honour his "dear friend" after US President Donald Trump clubbed India with China and Russia and accused the three countries of hiding the number of COVID-19 deaths.

Taking to Twitter, Chidambaram said, "Mr Donald Trump clubs India with China and Russia and accused the three countries of hiding the number of COVID deaths. He also accused the three countries for causing the most air pollution. Will Mr Modi hold another 'Namaste Trump!' rally to honour his dear friend?"

India-China emphasise on need to strengthen communication, especially between ground commanders

"In 47 months I have done more than you have in 47 years--said Mr Donald Trump in the Presidential debate yesterday if the statement reminds you of someone in India, that's your imagination!" Chidambaram added.

Hathras sealed ahead of Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi's visit|Oneindia News

Donald Trump is planting seeds of doubt in legitimacy of election: Biden

The Congress leader further stated, "No one killed Jessica" was the anguished cry a few years ago, "No one demolished the mosque" is the anguished cry today.

"The trial court's verdict defies logic and common sense, besides denying the conclusions of the Supreme Court!" he added.

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Story first published: Thursday, October 1, 2020, 12:29 [IST]
CARROLLTON, Texas, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- FASTSIGNS International Inc. will be celebrating Sign Manufacturing Day virtually during an unprecedented year. In partnership with the National Association of Manufacturers' Manufacturing Day, the International Sign Association promotes Sign Manufacturing Day every first Friday of October.

FASTSIGNS Celebrates Sign Manufacturing Day 2020 with Virtual Initiative

To honor the day, FASTSIGNS International will be streaming and sharing videos of a tour from the FASTSIGNS International office on October 2 with subsequent videos to be posted throughout the entire month of October to encourage excitement and interest in the future of the sign industry.

In addition, FASTSIGNS franchisees across the US and Canada have been encouraged to share and post videos on October 2 that exhibit their centers and share with students and the community the vast capabilities at FASTSIGNS. During the recent year, the need for signs and graphics has proven to be increasingly relevant. Whether through retail businesses, restaurants or hospitality companies, the need to inform, direct and sell has established sign manufacturers as an essential business within their communities.

"We are thrilled to once again celebrate Sign Manufacturing Day. As we've experienced this year, the signage industry is an essential player in a world focused on keeping communities safe, healthy and informed," said Catherine Monson, CEO at FASTSIGNS International, Inc. and Chair of the International Franchising Association. "We look forward to using this day to ignite a spark in the next generation of sign manufacturers by sharing the vast opportunities that are available to them with a career in this industry."

For more information on Sign Manufacturing day, visit the link here , follow FASTSIGNS brand social channels or search Manufacturing Day hashtag #MFGDay20 .

About FASTSIGNS

FASTSIGNS International, Inc. celebrates its 35th anniversary in business in 2020 as the leading sign and visual communications franchisor in North America, and is the worldwide franchisor of more than 735 independently owned and operated FASTSIGNS centers in 9 countries including the United States and Puerto Rico, the United Kingdom, Canada, Chile, Grand Cayman, the United Arab Emirates, Malta, France and Australia (where centers operate as SIGNWAVE).

FASTSIGNS locations provide comprehensive signage and graphic solutions to help companies of all sizes and across all industries attract more attention, communicate their message, promote their products, help visitors find their way and extend their branding across all of their customer touchpoints. FASTSIGNS has been ranked the #1 franchise opportunity in its category in Entrepreneur magazine's Franchise 500 for the past four years, a 2019 Top Franchises for Veterans by Franchise Business Review and a 2019 America's Best Franchises to Buy list by Forbes magazine.

Learn more about sign and graphic solutions or find a location at fastsigns.com . Follow the brand on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/fastsigns , Twitter @FASTSIGNS or Facebook at facebook.com/FASTSIGNS . For information about the FASTSIGNS franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson ([email protected] or call 214.346.5679).

Contact:

Leah Edwards

FASTSIGNS Corporate Communications

214.346.5792

[email protected]

SOURCE FASTSIGNS International, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.fastsigns.com


It is a real pleasure to endorse John Rocco Calabrese as the Democratic candidate for the open seat in Assembly District 29.

When he wins the election on Nov. 3, I predict he will quickly become one of the most popular and respected young politicians in Wisconsin.

He possesses an enviable skill set for public life; his genuine warmth and easy conversational style make it impossible not to like him.

His empathy and respect for others guarantees he will focus on our needs, and his strong intelligence guarantees he has the capacity to contribute to the work of the Assembly.

In the several years that I have observed his interactions with others, I am convinced that he has the requisite qualities for the highest levels of political leadership. Indeed, it might be the beginning of a new grassroots dynasty in northern Wisconsin, possibly following the footsteps of such revered political leaders as Gaylord Nelson, Bill Proxmire and Dave Obey.

Johns maturity and basic decency is very reassuring in these partisan times when the Republican leadership is hostile to any progressive legislation for working people.

The area where Johns ethics are in sharpest contrast with other politicians, of both parties, is in campaign financing. He refuses to accept dark money from corporations or PACs because he knows this is the ultimate wellspring of political corruption.

His financial integrity means he will never do the bidding of lobbyists, but it also means he is counting on small donor contributions from his fellow citizens.

The salvation of our great American experiment with democracy depends, in part, on courageous politicians like John Calabrese shaming those who grovel for handouts from large corporations and political action committees.

For a closer look at this intriguing candidate, check his website: calabreseforwisconsin.

John See, Menomonie

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Bishop Margaret Wanjiru has endorsed Deputy President William Ruto for the top seat in the 2022 General Elections.

The former Starehe Member of Parliament declared her support for the DP on Tuesday during an event at Rutos residence in Karen where he donated wheelbarrows, carts among other things to youths.

Bishop Wanjiru, who is eyeing the Nairobi gubernatorial seat under Rutos Hustler Movement, said the DP will solve the problems facing Nairobi county and its residents.

I want to stand with someone who stands with Kenyans and God. I will stand with someone who respects people and will save us from the problems we face in this city, she said, further urging Nairobians to shun tribalism.

What will I do if you ask me to campaign along tribal lines? My presidential candidate, the incoming president is not a Kikuyu. Our boss here is not a Kikuyu, she stated.

The presiding bishop of Jesus is Alive Ministries lauded DP Ruto for his youth initiatives saying Kenyans need practical solutions to the problems they face on daily basis.

She noted that she started as a hustler herself; I know what it means to lack: I used to be a housegirl and a hawker in the streets of Nairobi.

Bishop Wanjiru added: God can lift anybody from ashes to beauty and as leaders, we must continually create opportunities that change the lives of the people we lead.

This comes days after Bishop Wanjiru held talks with DP Ruto on various matters affecting the country.

My vision for a New Nairobi is still alive; winners never quit, they keep their eyes focused on GODs promises. Isaiah 62:10: prepare the way of the people, lift up a standard for the people, she said last Friday after meeting Ruto.
With all the talk about drugs in the news currently, it was only a matter of time till someone dragged another actor into it. An upbeat Abhishek Bachchan who shared the news of theatres reopening from October 15 faced his fair share of trolls. Then when a Twitter user asked him, "Hash hain kya?", the actor had the perfect clapback for this unusual question.

Abhishek Bachchan spoke about how an actor's career is eventually at the hands of the audience. He said that they can only hope and try to work to the best of their abilities. To which, a Twitter user asked him about hash. "No! Sorry. Don't do that. But will be very happy to help you and introduce you to Mumbai Police, am sure they will be very happy to learn of your requirements and will assist you," he quipped.

No! Sorry. Dont do that. But will be very happy to help you and introduce you to @MumbaiPolice am sure they, will be very happy to learn of your requirements and will assist you. Abhishek Bachchan (@juniorbachchan) September 30, 2020 Son of legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan has always been at the receiving end of social media trolling for not being a big star like his father. But Junior Bachchan has always been seen taking all that hate in good humour. Upon sharing the news of cinemas reopening, a troll commented that Bachchan Jr would still be 'jobless'. "That, alas, is in your (the audiences) hand. If you don't like our work, we won't get our next job. So we work to the best of our abilities and hope and pray for the best," he replied. Then someone asked how he managed to get any roles after Drona -- his 2008 film that sank without a trace. In a very honest reply, Bachchan said, "I didn't. Was dropped from a few films and it was very difficult to get cast. But we live in hope and keep trying, hoping and working towards our goals. You have to get up everyday and fight for your place under the sun. Nothing in life comes easy. Jab tak jeevan hain, sangharsh hain." I didnt. Was dropped from a few films and it was very difficult to get cast. But we live in hope and keep trying, hoping and working towards our goals. You have to get up everyday and fight for your place under the sun. Nothing in life comes easy. , Abhishek Bachchan (@juniorbachchan) September 30, 2020

His humility and honesty has been winning him praises from all quarters. Twitter is abuzz with his fans and colleagues commending him for being humble. His fans have been inundating him with praise for his roles in Guru, Yuva, Paa, Sarkar, Delhi-6, Raavan and his latest show Breathe: Into the Shadows.

Also read: Actor Abhishek Bachchan tests COVID-19 negative, gets discharged from hospital

Also read: Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, daughter Aaradhya admitted to hospital days after testing COVID-19 positive
Background

Despite advances in technology and the work environment, mining remains one of the most challenging and dangerous occupations in the United States. The fatality rate in mining is five times higher than the national average for other industries according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)external icon.

There were 331,610 workers in the Mining Sector in 2019, according to data collected by the Mining Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) from mine operators and independent contractors. In 2019, MSHA reported 12,968 mining operations in the United States. MSHA data for the same period shows 27 fatalities, with the industry average from 2009-2018 being 36 annual fatalities. The MSHA data shows that 3,926 nonfatal lost-time injuries occurred in 2019, an overall rate of 1.53 per 100 full-time equivalent (FTE) workers. According to data from the NIOSH Mining Program, BLSexternal icon, and MSHAexternal icon , the rate of nonfatal lost-time underground injuries in 2019 was greater than the rate for surface injuries (2.70 vs. 1.27 per 100 FTE workers).

Miners experience rates of respiratory illness and disease that are much higher than the general population, and mining has a higher occurrence of hearing loss than any other major industry. Of all nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses reported to MSHA between 2009 and 2013, nearly one-third (29%)external icon were musculoskeletal disorders. Because of the many challenges in the mining industry, the focus areas for mining training must encompass a wide range of hazards and risks.

In 1969, the Coal Mine Safety and Health Act provided funding for state health and safety training through grants by MSHA. The mining community in the Eastern United States is served by the MSHA Training Academy in Beckley, West Virginiaexternal icon. MSHA, under the Department of Labor, provides training to federal mine inspectors and mining professionals from other governmental agencies, the mining industries, and labor.

Since the authorities of the Bureau of Mines were transferred to NIOSH in 1999, NIOSH has supported the safety and health training of miners in the Western United States. NIOSH support for miner training has been provided through various projects, contracts, grants and cooperative agreements, including the Miner Safety and Health Training Program  Western United States. These training centers provide a joint approach to reducing injuries to miners and other workers in mining operations.

Purpose

The Miner Safety and Health Training Program  Western United States enhances the quality and complements the availability of health and safety training for miners in the Western United States.

Several of the main objectives of the training program include:

Developing, delivering, and managing the training needs of miners through qualified instructors and faculty.

Implementing train the trainer courses.

Evaluating training effectiveness and impact on reducing injuries and illnesses to miners.

Coordinating with existing training programs, like those offered by MSHA and MSHA-funded state programs, and in partnerships with industry, miners, and other agencies.

The program aims to translate research into workplace practices that advance the safety and health of miners and other workers involved in mining operations and increase the quantity of qualified mine safety and health trainers in the Western United States.

Training Program Description

Colorado School of Mines

The Energy, Mining and Construction Industry Safety Program at the Colorado School of Mines (CSM)external icon is devoted to the development of effective training and education programs for workers engaged in mining operations throughout the Western United States. CSM has been active in efforts to reduce injuries and illnesses among workers in western mining operations. This is accomplished through a focused, relevant, and comprehensive training program that educates mine workers on how to identify and protect themselves from risks and hazards in the mining environment.

CSM has continued to improve and expand upon the initial training program by focusing extensively on MSHA-required training; being responsive to industry needs for professional and specialized training; and by creating educational experiences for University students, faculty and staff. Current efforts are focused on three specific aims:

The implementation of a safety and health training program intended to satisfy MSHA requirements as specified under 30 CFR Part 48 for New Miner and Annual Refresher training in both surface and underground operations, MSHA instructor certification, and general mining related first aid training. The development of a broad-based Professional Training Curriculum that seeks to enhance and improve the technical abilities, working knowledge, and effectiveness of safety and health professionals/trainers in their capacity to effectively train workers at their individual operations. The development of innovative and interactive safety and health educational experiences for university students, faculty and staff that utilize effective pedagogies to ensure proficiency within mining engineering, economic geology, geological engineering and the extractive industries.

University of Arizona

Reducing fatalities, injuries, and occupational illnesses continues to be a significant challenge for the mining industry, despite on-going improvements. To address this challenge, companies are increasingly focused on defining competencies for task training to improve safety outcomes. Building on past NIOSH miner training grants, the Western Mining Safety and Health Training Resource Centerexternal icon at the University of Arizona uses a competency-based framework to integrate health and safety training for miners, trainers, and managers, with a focus on serving the needs of small and medium-sized mines. Specifically, the Center has three aims:

Offer active learning-based safety and health training to mine workers. For mine workers, the Center accommodates low literacy and education disadvantaged learners. The Center uses a suite of serious games and active learning exercises to encourage critical thinking about safety, with emphasis on worker health, hazards recognition, and MSHAs rules. Offer innovative train-the-trainer programs. For trainers, the Center developed and offers the Instructional Design for the Safety and Technical Trainer Certificate Program, using the competency model published through the Department of Labor. For managers and executives, the Center created a workshop to learn about critical controls and developed a networking mechanism through its website and social media that allows lessons learned to be shared across companies and industry sectors including contractors, vendors, manufacturers, and operating companies. Establish collaborative partnerships for critical control management. The Center partners with rock products associations in the key states of California, Arizona, Texas, Nevada, and Colorado to offer training programs to their member companies. Trainings include the addition of health modules and inclusion of new topic areas in critical control management activities. By integrating our training under a single competency framework, the Center provides a coherent structure for evaluation and for assessing impact.

Fiscal Year (FY) Extramural Research Program Highlights

Program achievements featured in the Extramural Research and Training Program Annual Reports

Funding Opportunity Announcements

Please visit the website for current workforce development funding opportunities.

Additional Resources
New Delhi, Oct 1 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a chargesheet against founder of banned terror outfits like Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT), Jamaat-Ud-Dawa (JuD) and Falah-i-Insaniyat Foundation Hafiz Saeed, his deputy Shahid Mehmood, Mohammad Salman, Dubai-based Pakistani Mohammad Kamran and Mohammad Salim alias Mama, a Delhi-based hawala operator in a terror funding case.

An ED official said that the agency filed a chargesheet against them under Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 in the terror funding case. The ED registered a case on the basis of the chargesheet filed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) against Salman, Salim and Kamran under several sections of the IPC and the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act. The official said that during the probe it was revealed that funds were re-routed from Pakistan to Dubai and further to India through hawala channels. "Salman was the recipient of funds sent by Kamran and his associates Abdul Aziz Behlim and Arif Gulambashir Dharampuria, in Dubai," the official said.

The ED seized incriminating documents from the house of Salman, Salim and Dharampuria during the searches conducted by NIA and email correspondence reflect these hawala transactions by Mohammad Uzair to Kamran, on the instructions of Salman. "With respect to the inflow of funds from Dubai, the quantum of funds that Salman was receiving from Kamran and his associates in Dubai, through hawala channels, has been quantified on the basis of emails, receipts and registers maintained by accused," the official said.

The official further said that Salman used the funds received from abroad for construction of Masjid at Uttawar in Haryana's Palwal and marriages of poor girls in and around area of village Uttawar.

"ED identified properties to the tune of Rs 4.69 crore amassed through the proceeds of crime. Three immovable property of accused Salman, located in New Delhi, having a value of Rs 73.12 lakh has been attached by the ED," it said.

Salman and Salim are currently under judicial custody. According to the NIA, Salman was found to be involved in receiving funds from FIF operators and his associates through illegally operated hawala channel. FIF is a Pakistan-based terror organisation established by Jamat-ud-Dawa. It was founded by Hafiz Saeed, the head of LeT and JuD. Falah-i-Insaniyat foundation has been designated as terrorist organisation by the United Nations on March 14, 2012. Hafiz Saeed was also designated as global terrorist by the UN.

NIA has claimed that the FIF is nothing but a front organisation of JuD and LeT that was formed to evade security and sanctions. The India government has designated FIF as a terrorist organisation in August 2016. As such, LeT seeks to raise funds and build network through FIF for further terror activities.

--IANS

aks/kr
While many remember the iconic Polly Waffle chocolate bar from the 80s, a distillery has deconstructed the flavours and turned it into a refreshing gin.

Australian brand The Gin Birds created Polly's Gin to bring back childhood memories through a different form.

The new product is available to pre-order via the Gindex website for $38 per 200mL bottle.

The Polly Waffle chocolate bar has a waffle tube filled with marshmallow and is coated in delicious chocolate.

While many remember the iconic Polly Waffle chocolate bar from the 80s, a distillery has deconstructed the flavours and turned it into a refreshing gin

The distillery partnered with Victorian company That Spirited Lot to recreate the flavours.

To imitate the sweetness from the chocolate, dried orchard fruits, coconut, allspice and cacao was used, while marshmallow root, ruby grapefruit peel, lemon peel, almond, pistachio and Ceylon vanilla helped mimic the marshmallow flavour.

The gin itself is also made using notes of organic juniper and coriander, and the label on the bottle replicates the colour and text of a Polly Waffle wrapper.

Australian brand The Gin Birds created Polly's Gin to bring back childhood memories through a different form

Chamaine Lovett co-founder of The Gin Birds told delicious.com: 'We grew up in the 80s so we know just how deliriously popular this bar is.

'We set a challenge to our partner distiller to create something reminiscent of this childhood icon yet grown up, and the result is a spectacular gin.'

Eager customers swiftly shared words of praise on social media after the distillery shared the product news online.

'Looks and sounds incredible!! Can't wait to try it,' one person said on Instagram.

'Wow well done! My hubby loved polly waffles,' another said.

The Polly Waffle chocolate bar itself will be rising from the dead and making a return to store shelves in early 2021 after more than a decade.

The federal government is pumping almost $50 million into manufacturing projects to create new jobs during the coronavirus pandemic.

One of the beneficiaries is sweet-maker Robern Menz in South Australia, which will receive $1million to establish a Polly Waffle production line.

The project is expected to create 38 jobs. About 200 projects overall will be supported through the manufacturing cash splash.

Polly Waffles were originally made in 1947 by Hoadley's Chocolates in Melbourne, and were later bought by Rowntree and Nestle.
KELOWNA, BC, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ - The Valens Company Inc. (TSX: VLNS) (OTCQX: VLNCF) (the "Company" or "The Valens Company"), a global leader in the end-to-end development and manufacturing of innovative, cannabinoid-based products, today announced the launch of vape cartridges under a custom manufacturing agreement with TREC Brands for its WINK brand premium product portfolio.

The 510 thread cartridges, WINK Onyx and WINK Chalice, are the first set of vape products to be introduced to WINK's carefully curated collection of unique products. The cartridges contain high THC, custom formulations crafted using a broad-spectrum CO2 extraction process, offering consumers terpene-rich cannabis extract, free of carriers and additives. WINK Chalice is a Sativa-dominant blend with a smooth earthy and floral flavour profile with a hint of spice, while Indica-dominant WINK Onyx offers potent floral and citrus notes with an herbal undertone.

All WINK cartridges are compatible with a 510 thread vape battery and are made with a ceramic or electroplated mouthpiece, stainless steel frame, and glass casing designed to deliver maximum performance. Both are currently available at retailers and online in Alberta, and are expected to be available in Ontario in the coming weeks. TREC Brands will donate ten percent of profits from all sales of WINK products to community-based initiatives that put the people and planet first. Specifically, the WINK brand donates to organizations supporting social services and homelessness.

In addition to WINK, The Valens Company will also manufacture vape products for two other existing TREC brands, Thumbs Up Brand and Blissed, with the potential to later produce other innovative products in partnership with the company.

About The Valens Company

The Valens Company is a global leader in the end-to-end development and manufacturing of innovative, cannabinoid-based products. The Valens Company is focused on being the partner of choice for leading Canadian and international cannabis brands by providing best-in-class, proprietary services including CO2, ethanol, hydrocarbon, solvent-less and terpene extraction, analytical testing, formulation and product development and custom manufacturing. Valens is the largest third-party extraction company in Canada with an annual capacity of 425,000 kg of dried cannabis and hemp biomass at our purpose-built facility in Kelowna, British Columbia which is in the process of becoming European Union (EU) Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) compliant. The Valens Company currently offers a wide range of product formats, including tinctures, two-piece caps, soft gels, oral sprays and vape pens as well as beverages, concentrates, topicals, edibles, injectables, natural health products and has a strong pipeline of next-generation products in development for future release. Finally, The Valens Company's wholly-owned subsidiary Valens Labs is a Health Canada licensed ISO 17025 accredited cannabis testing lab providing sector-leading analytical services and has partnered with Thermo Fisher Scientific to develop a Centre of Excellence in Plant-Based Science. For more information, please visit http://thevalenscompany.com . The Valens Company's investor deck can be found specifically at http://thevalenscompany.com/investors/ .

Notice regarding Forward Looking Statements

All information included in this press release, including any information as to the future financial or operating performance and other statements of The Valens Company that express management's expectations or estimates of future performance, other than statements of historical fact, constitute forward-looking information or forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as of the date hereof. Forward-looking statements are included for the purpose of providing information about management's current expectations and plans relating to the future. Wherever possible, words such as "plans", "expects", "scheduled", "trends", "indications", "potential", "estimates", "predicts", "anticipate", "to establish", "believe", "intend", "ability to", or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might", "will", or are "likely" to be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of these words or other variations thereof, have been used to identify such forward-looking information. Specific forward-looking statements include, without limitation, all disclosure regarding future results of operations, economic conditions and anticipated courses of action. Investors and other parties are advised that there is not necessarily any correlation between the number of SKUs manufactured and shipped and revenue and profit, and undue reliance should not be placed on such information.

The risks and uncertainties that may affect forward-looking statements include, among others, regulatory risk, United States border crossing and travel bans, reliance on licenses, expansion of facilities, competition, dependence on supply of cannabis and reliance on other key inputs, dependence on senior management and key personnel, general business risk and liability, regulation of the cannabis industry, change in laws, regulations and guidelines, compliance with laws, reliance on a single facility, limited operating history, vulnerability to rising energy costs, unfavourable publicity or consumer perception, product liability, risks related to intellectual property, product recalls, difficulties with forecasts, management of growth and litigation, many of which are beyond the control of The Valens Company. For a more comprehensive discussion of the risks faced by The Valens Company, and which may cause the actual financial results, performance or achievements of The Valens Company to be materially different from estimated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking information or forward-looking statements, please refer to The Valens Company's latest Annual Information Form filed with Canadian securities regulatory authorities at www.sedar.com or on The Valens Company's website at www.thevalenscompany.com. The risks described in such Annual Information Form are hereby incorporated by reference herein. Although the forward-looking statements contained herein reflect management's current beliefs and reasonable assumptions based upon information available to management as of the date hereof, The Valens Company cannot be certain that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking information. The Valens Company cautions you not to place undue reliance upon any such forward-looking statements. The Valens 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. Nothing herein should be construed as either an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy or sell securities of The Valens Company.

SOURCE The Valens Company
The World Customs Organization (WCO) concluded additional agreements in the month of September, with the U.S. Department of State, to expand its Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-terrorism Financing (AML-CTF), Customs Operational Practices for Enforcement and Seizures (COPES) and Strategic Trade Control Enforcement (STCE) Programmes. A new agreement was also signed to bring the expertise developed by US Customs and Border Patrol (CBP), in relation to the canine detection of Fentanyl, to the wider Customs community.

WCO Secretary General Dr. Kunio Mikuriya welcomed these agreements and stated that the reiterated engagement and additional support of the US CBP will allow the WCO to bolster its activities and efforts in the enforcement area. He added that our Members have showed their reactivity and agility during the global pandemic and the WCO will continue to raise the profile of Customs and demonstrate the relevance of Customs with the strong support of its donors.

AML/CTF Programme

The new funding expands the AML/CTF Programme capacity building and operational effort, Project TENTACLE, through to September 2022 with a possible expansion through to September 2023. Project TENTACLE is an AML/CTF capacity building effort that is designed to raise both the awareness of the WCO membership of money laundering activities that occur in the Customs arena and raise Customs services capabilities to combat them. Project TENTACLE is a WCO-led joint effort with the Egmont Group and INTERPOL to combat AML activities by transnational criminal groups and terrorist organizations. Project TENTACLE engages the Customs services to conduct operational efforts after the AML/CTF workshops in an effort to identify and detain/seize bulk cash and gems and precious metals that are being smuggled across international borders, with an added focus on trade-based money laundering.

The new funding allows the AML/CTF Programme to expand the focus areas of Project TENTACLE to the Middle East and Eastern Europe from its initial focus in Africa, Latin America and the Asia-Pacific region. The additional funding will allow for two additional capacity building workshops and two additional operations in 2021 and 2022. It will also bolster the FinCRIME On-line Library, the development of financial intelligence and the joint training efforts between the Egmont Group and the WCO.

COPES/ STCE Programme

Since 2013, the US Department of State has provided strong support to the WCO to develop training materials and deliver capacity building with regards to the operational practices relating to seizures and the collection of evidence COPES, and the identification and detection of dual use items and items integral to weapons of mass destruction (WMD) programmes -STCE. The new funding aims to supplement those efforts, notably by way of activities designed to build Customs capacities when it comes to conducting investigations and instigating proceedings relating to strategic goods covered by the Strategic Trade Control Enforcement (STCE) Programme. This will include the development of new training material, some of which will be available on the WCO CLiKC online learning platform.

In addition, the funding supports a range of capacity building assistance which can support Customs Administration seeking to increase their competence in addressing the investigation and successful prosecution of attempts to evade international and national controls of strategic goods in accordance with commitment given under United Nations Security Council Resolution 1540. There are three specific activities addressing the development of training and provision of specific materials for Indonesia, Jordan and Ukraine, while the other workshops will build on previously identified training needs.

Fentanyl Detection Project

The new K9 Fentanyl Detection Project will be rolled out by the end of 2020 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2021. The purpose of this initial phase is to define the beneficiary Members who meet the minimum requirements to receive fentanyl detection training for canines in the future. Scoping missions to the selected Member administrations will be jointly conducted by the experts of the WCO and CBP. They will conduct site visits to the physical locations of the canine facilities of the selected Administrations to make assessment, addressing the standard of kennels, hygienic conditions, training grounds and equipment for hosting the training sessions and veterinary facilities. Additionally, assessing the standard of the canine programme of the selected Members, including but not limited to, the strategic planning of the canine programme, the training courses provided to the canine teams, and the categories of contraband against which the detector dogs are deployed.

In view of the prevailing threat of new psychoactive substances coming onto the market at a sustained pace, in particular fentanyl and its variants, the WCO has partnered with the US Department of State with a view to building up a strong and coordinated network and border management. This project will address the growing risk involved with the physical handling of Fentanyl, considering the canine teams are one of the most reliable and powerful tools in detection of drugs, and are used nowadays to detect a wide range of commodities. Canine teams are a vital asset to Customs Administrations and through this project the WCO strives to foster a strong international network and raise the Members capacity in this field.

Each programme will soon start recruiting staff with the intention to start planning activities with member administrations to be implemented in early 2021. Further information on these and other compliance related programmes can be found on the Compliance and Enforcement webpage
This is an article from World Review: The State of Democracy, a special section that examines global policy and affairs through the perspectives of thought leaders and commentators, and is published in conjunction with the annual Athens Democracy Forum.

It has been a devastating summer for most young people around the world. Because of the pandemic, concerts have been canceled, beaches closed and human interactions limited.

Its a bit different for the youth in Hong Kong, who face not only loneliness because of a lack of social contact, but also a period of White Terror that started with the imposition of a far-reaching national security law by China. Since June 30, when it was introduced, the legislation has facilitated and accelerated Beijings political prosecutions in response to ongoing pro-democracy protests in the semiautonomous territory.

The law confers to Beijing and the local authorities reporting to it sweeping powers to prosecute individuals who are accused of committing acts of subversion, secession or collusion with foreign forces. The specific terms used in the text of the legislation, which are vague and left to the interpretation of those in power, leave room for manipulation and abuse, endangering our freedom of expression.
Vaccines normally offered in school to Grade 7 students will instead be delivered at community clinics and doctors offices in parts of Ontario, meaning parents will have to make arrangements to ensure their children are immunized.

The Ministry of Health says local public health units, which are responsible for immunization programs including those in schools, are working to let residents know where they can access the vaccines.

Students in Grade 7 are typically given vaccines for Hepatitis B, Human Papilloma Virus and Meningococcal disease in school. Some of those shots require more than one dose.

Those programs have been disrupted due to COVID-19, which has seen thousands of students choose virtual lessons over in-person classes.

In Ottawa and Toronto  two regions experiencing a surge in COVID-19 cases  public health officials say clinics will prioritize administering the flu vaccine this fall.

But they say vaccination clinics for students will be held in the community at a later date to replace the in-school programs.

Given the exceptional circumstances, (Ottawa Public Health) has also invited family physicians to order school-aged vaccinations to their private practice to immunize their individual patients, which is not a typical accommodation, the health unit said.

A series of so-called catch-up clinics were also held throughout the summer to help families stay on top of vaccinations, but those were paused once schools reopened, it said.

The school-based program typically reaches about 10,000 students in Ottawa each year, the unit said.

In Toronto, the HPV, Hepatitis B and Meningococcal disease vaccines will be available by appointment at clinics in the new year, though parents can also ask their health-care provider to administer it, public health officials said.

Reviews of students immunization records are also cancelled for the rest of the year, said Torontos associate medical officer of health, Dr. Vinita Dubey.

Vaccines provide individuals with protection from non-COVID-19 diseases. Students visiting their health-care providers for scheduled or urgent visits should not delay vaccinations at this time, Dubey said in an email.

Dr. Jennifer Blake, chief executive officer of the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada, said its important for parents to ensure their children get all the necessary doses of the HPV vaccine despite the disruption in the school programs.

Ontario already vaccinates students later than other provinces, she said, noting the HPV vaccine may require a third dose if administered at a later age. The vaccine is the most important preventive measure against cervical cancer, she said.

What we know from the worldwide experience is that the most effective programs for vaccination are the school-based programs. So anything that interferes with a school-based vaccination program can throw us off, Blake said.

It is something to consider as to whether or not in future years, its worth moving this program back to an earlier grade level so that you do have a little bit of a buffer in case something like this continues or happens again.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on Oct. 1, 2020.
Harrisburg, NC -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/01/2020 -- The Battery Packaging Material Market Perspective, Comprehensive Analysis along with Major Segments and Forecast, 2020-2026. The Battery Packaging Material Market report is a valuable source of insightful data for business strategists. It provides the industry overview with growth analysis and historical & futuristic cost, revenue, demand, and supply data (as applicable). Report explores the current outlook in global and key regions from the perspective of players, countries, product types, and end industries. This Battery Packaging Material Market study provides comprehensive data which enhances the understanding, scope, and application of this report



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Key Market Players:



Nefab, Amcor, Umicore, Ball Corporation, United Parcel Service (UPS), Rogers Corporation, Owens-Illinois, DHL, Fedex, Crown Holding, Zarges and Other



Industry News



30 September 2020: As part of the ongoing reassessment of its global production footprint, Umicore plans to streamline its cobalt activities in the business unit Cobalt & Specialty Materials with the aim of strengthening the business unit's competitive position.Cobalt & Specialty Materials is a leader in the refining, production and distribution of cobalt and nickel specialty chemicals for a wide-range of non-battery related applications. Over the past few years, the business unit has been facing increasing competition in several of its end markets and more recently in its cobalt refining activities due to the emergence of large-scale cobalt refineries. Against this backdrop, Umicore plans to consolidate part of the business unit's core activities in Kokkola, Finland and Nashville, US in order to achieve synergies and strengthen the unit's competitive position.



Market Segmentation by Types:



Cardboard

Wood

Foams

Plastics



Market Segmentation by Applications:



Lead Acid

Nickel Metal Hydride

Lithium-Ion

Nickel Cadmium



Regional Analysis For Battery Packaging Material Market:



The report provides a detailed breakdown of the market region-wise and categorizes it at various levels. Regional segment analysis displaying regional production volume, consumption volume, revenue, and growth rate from 2020-2026 covers: Americas (United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil), APAC (China, Japan, Korea, Southeast Asia, India, Australia), Europe (Germany, France, UK, Italy, Russia, Spain), Middle East & Africa (Egypt, South Africa, Israel, Turkey, GCC Countries)



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The market factors explained in the report:



Market Overview: It includes Battery Packaging Material Market study scope, top key players, segments, market analysis by application, market analysis by type, and other chapters that give an overview of the research study.



Executive Summary: The Battery Packaging Material Market report evaluated key market features, including revenue, price, capacity, capacity utilization rate, gross, production, production rate, consumption, import/export, supply/demand, cost, market share, CAGR, and gross margin. In addition, the study offers a comprehensive study of the key market dynamics and their latest trends, along with pertinent market segments and sub-segments.



Regional Study: All of the regions and countries analyzed in the Battery Packaging Material Market report is studied on the basis of market size by application, the market size by product, key players, and market forecast.



Key Players: This part of the Battery Packaging Material Market report discusses expansion plans of companies, key mergers and acquisitions, funding and investment analysis, company establishment dates, revenues of manufacturers, and their areas served and manufacturing bases.



Market Forecast: Here, the report offers a complete forecast of the global Battery Packaging Material Market by product, application, and region. It also offers global sales and revenue forecasts for all years of the forecast period.



The research includes historic data from 2014 to 2019 and forecasts until 2026 which makes the report an invaluable resource for industry executives, marketing, sales and product managers, consultants, analysts, and stakeholders looking for key industry data in readily accessible documents with clearly presented tables and graphs.



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WASHINGTON (AP)  Democrats controlling the House narrowly passed a $2.2 trillion COVID-19 relief bill Thursday night, a move that came as top-level talks on a smaller, potentially bipartisan measure dragged on toward an uncertain finish. An air of pessimism has largely taken over the Capitol.

The Democratic bill passed after a partisan debate by a 214-207 vote without any Republicans in support. The move puts lawmakers no closer to actually delivering aid such as more generous weekly unemployment payments, extended help for small businesses and especially troubled economic sectors such as restaurants and airlines, and another round of $1,200 direct payments to most Americans.

Passage of the $2.2 trillion plan came after a burst of negotiations this week between Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif. The Trump administration delivered concessions Wednesday, including a $400 per week pandemic jobless benefit and a markedly higher overall price tag of $1.6 trillion, but that failed to win over Pelosi.

This isnt half a loaf, this is the heel of the loaf, Pelosi said in a televised interview Thursday. Pelosi spoke after the White House attacked her as not being serious."

The ramped-up negotiations come as challenging economic news continues to confront policymakers. The airlines are furloughing about 30,000 workers with the expiration of aid passed earlier this year, and a report Thursday showed 837,000 people claiming jobless benefits for the first time last week. Most of the economic benefits of an immediate round of COVID relief could accrue under the next administration, and failure now could mean no significant help for struggling families and businesses until February.

The vote was advertised as a way to demonstrate Democrats were making a good faith offer on coronavirus relief, but 18 Democrats abandoned the party and sentiment remains among more moderate Democrats to make more concessions and guarantee an agreement before Election Day. Republicans controlling the Senate remained divided.

Story continues

Talks between Mnuchin and Pelosi were closely held and the Speaker told reporters that no deal would come on Thursday. Mnuchin's offer of a $400 per week jobless benefit put him in the same ballpark as Democrats backing a $600 benefit. Mnuchin's price tag of $1.6 trillion or more could drive many Republicans away, however, even as it failed to satisfy Pelosi.

We raised our offer to $1.6 trillion," White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany told reporters Thursday. Its one that she is is not interested in."

Mnuchin and Pelosi spoke by phone Thursday, but the speaker was publicly dismissive of the latest White House plan. Discussions are continuing, Pelosi said.

The White House plan, offered Wednesday, gave ground with a $250 billion proposal on funding for state and local governments and backed $20 billion in help for the struggling airline industry.

Details on the White House offer were confirmed by congressional aides, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss closed-door discussions.

As the talks dragged on, House leaders announced a Thursday evening vote on their scaled-back HEROES Act," which started out as a $3.4 trillion bill in May but is now down to $2.2 trillion after Pelosi cut back her demands for aiding state and local governments. The legislation came after party moderates openly criticized her stance.

White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows has drawn a line in the sand and warns that Trump won't approve legislation that approaches a $2 trillion threshold. But there's plenty of wiggle room in numbers so large, and the revenue picture for many states is not as alarming as feared when Democrats passed more than $900 billion for state and local governments in May.

Pelosi said Thursday that the administration is still far short on aid to state and local governments and in other areas.

Some of you have asked, Isn't something better than nothing?' No," Pelosi told reporters, citing the opportunity cost" for provisions sought by Democrats but potentially lost in any rush to agreement.

At issue is a long-delayed package that would extend another round of $1,200 direct stimulus payments, restore bonus pandemic jobless benefits, speed aid to schools and extend assistance to airlines, restaurants and other struggling businesses. A landmark $2 trillion relief bill in March passed with sweeping support and is credited with helping the economy through the spring and summer, but worries are mounting that the recovery may sputter without additional relief.

Pelosi has largely assumed a hard line so far. But she's never had a reputation for leaving large sums of money on the table and her tactical position  facing a White House and Senate controlled by Republicans  is not as strong as her demands might indicate.

The White House also seems far more eager for a deal than Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. Any compromise that could pass both the House and Senate is sure to alienate a large chunk of the Senate GOP. McConnell expressed support for the talks and another bill but isn't leaning into the effort. But some of his members appear worried that the deadlock is harming their reelection bids.

Id like to see another rescue package. Weve been trying for months to get there," McConnell told reporters Thursday. I wish them well."

Even if Pelosi and Mnuchin were able to reach a tentative agreement on top line" spending levels, dozens of details would need to be worked out. A particularly difficult issue, Pelosi told her colleagues earlier in the day, remains McConnell's insistence on a liability shield for businesses fearing COVID-related lawsuits after they reopen their doors.

The latest Democratic bill would revive a $600-per-week pandemic jobless benefit and send a second round of direct payments to most individuals. It would scale back an aid package to state and local governments to a still-huge $436 billion, send $225 billion to colleges and universities and deliver another round of subsidies to businesses under the Paycheck Protection Program. Airlines would get another $25 billion in aid to prevent a wave of layoffs.
Biden Tours Ohio, Pennsylvania, Promises to Inject Life and Capital Into Forgotten Towns

As President Donald Trump rallied in Minnesota, Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden on Wednesday toured towns in Ohio and Pennsylvania by train.

The two presidential candidates hit the campaign trail after clashing in a tense debate, presenting their competing visions of the country.

Biden started in Cleveland, where the debate took place, before moving through western Ohio and eastern Pennsylvania. Biden is seeking to flip Ohio and Pennsylvania after Trump won both in 2016.

Stops included Alliance, Ohio, and Latrobe, Pennsylvania.

Biden told a crowd in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, that as a senator he took the train every day to Washington and back so he could tuck his children into bed each night.

The train brought me back to my home base every single night. To my family. It kept me grounded. It kept me connected. It meant I always remembered whatand whoreally mattered in life, he said.

Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden greets supporters on the platform outside the Amtraks Greensburg Train Station in Greensburg, Pa., Sept. 30, 2020. (Andrew Harnik/AP Photo)

Biden said he met a variety of people on the train, learning about their lives and families.

And, in my experience, everyone was just looking for the chance to work hard and get ahead. Just a fair shot and an equal opportunity to pursue their dreams. And thats what Ive seen today at every single stop, and from the folks who joined me on this trip, he said.

People he met included an elementary school teacher from Lordstown, Ohio, whose husband accepted a transfer to another General Motors plant after the plant in the town was shut down last year. He drives 16 hours every weekend to see his family.

Biden also recounted listening to an incredible young womanmother of four, a home health aide, and a nursing studenttalk about how worried she is that no one is looking out for the caregivers in this country.

Biden accused the president of not having a plan to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic and leaving the trail of broken promises and lies he told communities just like Johnstown all across the industrial Midwest.

He doesnt care if communities like Johnstown are still hurting, he added later.

Biden said his Build Back Better plan is all about injecting life and capital back into places like Johnstown. The foundation of the plan is to have the federal government buy American-made goods, such as military equipment and steel, if Biden is elected.

Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden talks to union leaders during a campaign stop at International Union of Operational Engineers Local 66 Heavy Equipment Operator Training School in New Alexandria, Pa., Sept. 30, 2020. (Alex Wong/Getty Images)

Any company that offshores jobs will pay a 10 percent penalty. But any company that brings jobs back, or reopens a closed factory like those around Johnstown, will get a 10 percent credit, he said.

During the train tour, numerous people talked about their support for the nominee, including Denny Flora, a New Castle, Pennsylvania, resident; Thomas Conway, president of the United Steelworkers union; and Jacqueline Comar, a retired teacher who lives in Ohio.

Biden told reporters at the airport before flying back to his home in Wilmington, Delaware, that he felt good about the day.

I felt good about whats happened the last couple days and it looks like based onnot our pollingindependent polling, that were making, were picking up an awful lot of the folks who used to be Democrats, theyre coming back home, he said.

Biden spoke to a group he described as white working class Democrats, who he said thought we forgot them and didnt pay attention.

I want them to knowI mean sincerely that Im going to be your president, I hear them, I listen to them .. I get it, I get their sense of being left behind. Biden added.

Biden returned home around 11 p.m.
Melbourne's Myer Christmas windows are officially back on, a month after the retailer announced the 65-year-old tradition had been cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Myer and Melbourne City Council confirmed planning for a COVID-safe version of the event is now under way, hinting that the festive display on Bourke Street Mall would have a "very Melbourne" theme this year.

Families outside Myer's Christmas windows in 2015. Credit:Darrian Traynor

Melbourne City Council passed an urgent motion two weeks ago to negotiate a funding package for the annual Christmas display.

The details of the lifeline have not been released, but council chief executive Justin Hanney told radio station 3AW on Thursday morning he was happy that Myer had "come to the party".
New Delhi: UP Police have arrested Rahul Gandhi. Rahul and Priyanka were on their way to Hathras in UP to meet the family of the girl who was gang-raped and murdered. Rahul Gandhi has been arrested under Section 188 of the IPC. Section 3 of the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897, provides penalties for disobeying any regulation or order made under the Act. These are according to Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code (Disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant).

Speaking to reporters, Rahul said that he was manhandled by the police. "Just now police pushed me, lathicharged me and threw me to the ground. I want to ask, can only Modiji walk in this country? Can't a normal person walk? Our vehicle was stopped, so we started walking," Rahul said.

Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday were walking towards Hathras to meet the family of the Dalit gang-rape victim after their convoy was stopped in Greater Noida by the UP Police. The convoy was stopped near Pari Chowk, prompting party workers and senior leaders to proceed on foot to Hathras, which is 150 km away from here.

Even as Congress workers blocked roads and chanted slogans, the Gandhis' SUV crossed the border, but their convoy was stopped at Greater Noida, at a point that is about 142 km to Hathras. The Gandhis then got off the vehicle and started walking with scores of Congress workers.

A large number of Congress workers from Uttar Pradesh accompanied the two leaders on their march towards Hathras. They also raised slogans against the UP government.

Talking to reporters while walking on the Yamuna Expressway towards Hathras, Priyanka Gandhi said Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath should take responsibility for the alleged gangrape of a 19-year-old Dalit woman in the district and strict action should be taken against the perpetrators of the crime.
Victorians might be spending less time outside due to COVID-19 restrictions but health authorities are still urging residents to be wary of deadly thunderstorm asthma.

Ten people died during or soon after a thunderstorm asthma event in Melbourne on November 21, 2016.

Victoria's deputy chief health officer Allen Cheng warned about the freak storm, which prompted an inquest, in a message to the public on Thursday.

A combination of high pollen levels and strong winds can trigger the phenomenon.

Victorian health authorities have issued a warning for residents to we wary of thunderstorm asthma events in months to come - four years after a storm in Melbourne (pictured) killed ten people

November is usually the peak period for the asthma event, but Dr Cheng said it could take place any time from October to December.

The Bureau of Meteorology confirmed a La Nina over the Pacific Ocean on Tuesday, meaning Australia is likely to have a rainy spring and summer.

There is the possibility of flooding and more severe tropical cyclones than usual.

'This is likely to mean that it is somewhat of a high risk of thunderstorms, although the pollen forecast at this stage is only that it is probably going to be moderate,' Dr Cheng told reporters.

Current, former or undiagnosed asthmatics and hay fever sufferers should stay indoors when high-risk epidemic thunderstorm asthma events happen, or they should have good control of their condition.

People pictured fleeing Melbourne's iconic St Kilda Beach during the deadly weather event on November 21, 2016

'If you are in any one of those groups, you should see your GP and make sure that you have an action plan in case something happens,' Dr Cheng said.

'There have been a lot of changes to recommendations about medications over the last year.

'Even if you have seen your GP, but haven't seen them for a little while, it may be worth going back to make sure the medication you are on is appropriate.'

Dr Cheng said concerned Victorians could check pollen count meters on the VicEmergency app and University of Melbourne website.

He assured the community that systems were ready to issue high pollen warnings and monitor hospital admissions for signs of epidemic thunderstorm asthma.
Amid growing uproar in the national capital over the death of the Hathras gang-rape victim earlier this week, Delhi Police on Thursday said large gatherings in and around India Gate have been banned on October 2, the day which marks the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, due to the imposition of Section 144 of Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC).

However, the police said a gathering of up to 100 persons is permissible at Jantar Mantar, but only if permitted by the competent authority". Jantar Mantar is just three kilometres away from India Gate.

The general public is hereby informed that in view of DDMA order dated 03.09.2020 a total gathering upto 100 persons is permissible at the designated place i.e. Jantar Mantar and that too with prior permission of the competent authority. DCP New Delhi (@DCPNewDelhi) October 1, 2020

No gathering is permissible around India Gate due to imposition of Section 144 CrPC," Delhi Police said in another tweet.

The announcement came after a protest meet planned at India Gate on Friday demanding justice for the 20-year-old from Uttar Pradeshs Hathras who was brutally gang-raped, tortured and murdered. The horrific incident has reminded the country of the Nirbhaya case.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 18:07:52|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

JERUSALEM, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Israeli Minister for Social Equality Meirav Cohen on Thursday congratulated China for its 71st anniversary of founding, and praised the strong bilateral ties.

The minister sent a video message on behalf of Israel while attending an online celebration hosted by Chinese Embassy in Israel on Thursday to mark the anniversary.

She commended China for "its valiant efforts and successful battle in combating the spread of COVID-19 pandemic" and expressed gratitude to China for its cooperation with Israel against the virus.

"Our bilateral ties are strong and deep-rooted. We hope we will see further cooperation in all areas of our innovative comprehensive partnership and under the framework of the China-Israel Joint Committee on the Innovation Cooperation for the mutual benefit of both countries and peoples," she stressed.

The online event was held on the embassy's Facebook page, attracting many Israelis and members of the local Chinese community to participate.

Dai Yuming, charge d'affaires ad interim at the Chinese embassy, also delivered a speech, saying facing the COVID-19, the whole Chinese nation has been mobilized to save lives.

"With extraordinary efforts and sacrifices, China has made strategic achievements in fighting the virus while balancing social and economic growth," Dai said.

He added that during the fight against the pandemic, China and Israel have been working together to overcome challenges, demonstrating the power of unity and cooperation.

"Crises will never stop China and Israel to pursue greater cooperation. The governments and peoples of the two countries have will and wisdom to defeat the disease and reinvigorate the growth," the diplomat highlighted. Enditem
MINSK -- When a small group of Belarusians took to the streets in late spring during an opposition solidarity rally, they got an early taste of the police violence that would follow the country's contentious August election.

For the experience, Uladzislau Yeustsihneyeu and Paval Pyaskou, will spend the next three years in a maximum-security prison after being found guilty on September 29 of using force while resisting police after the two men tried to prevent the detention of a participant in the authorized rally.

The fracas that broke out on June 19 in the small city of Maladzechna, 70 kilometers northwest of Minsk, was a precursor to the major crackdown against peaceful protests across the country after Alyaksandr Lukashenka was handed a new term in a deeply disputed presidential election less than two months later.

As Pyaskou's wife, Veranika, sees it, her 31-year-old husband was sent away for causing a few scratches, while police and other security forces have yet to face justice for the beatings, abuse, and alleged torture they have inflicted on peaceful demonstrators.

"It is strange that for a scratch on the knee they give you three years in prison," she told RFE/RL's Belarus Service following the sentencing. "They beat people up, rape them, and that's all good. But for a scratch, three years."

Shattered Peace

Yeustsihneyeu, 25, and Pyaskou, the father of a 6-year-old child, were both in the center of Maladzechna on June 19, where a "chain of solidarity" was to be held in support of the opposition to Lukashenka. It was the last day for potential presidential candidates to collect signatures needed to get on the August 9 ballot.

The two men, who did not know each other, were standing with several dozen rally participants when police began to violently detain a protester.

Yeustsihneyeu and Pyaskou were soon in the middle of it as a chaotic scene unfolded, with civilians jumping into the fray as police -- one brandishing a pistol -- fought them off and drove off with their detainee.

The entire episode was captured in a viral video that made waves in Belarus.

When the dust settled, both Yeustsihneyeu and Pyaskou were facing up to five years in prison for forcefully resisting police, two of whom the court would find had received scratches to their knees and elbows and had sustained damage to their uniforms.

Yustsihneyeu, who said he lived in the city center and was only observing what was going on, pleaded guilty for his role in the incident. He testified that he had run to the aid of a woman he thought was being hurt and had grabbed an officer by the arm.

"You know, when a woman screamed, I didn't know, I just ran there," he told prosecutors," according to the Belarusian rights group Vyasnya.

He would be sentenced to three years in prison.

Crisis In Belarus Read our ongoing coverage as Belarusian strongman Alyaksandr Lukashenka continues his brutal crackdown on NGOs, activists, and independent media following the August 2020 presidential election, widely seen as fraudulent.

Pyaskou acknowledged being at the scene, but refused to admit to harming a police officer. He testified that he heard shouts of, "Save me. Help!" and saw a riot policeman pushing a man amid a confusing scene.

"I tried to grab the riot policeman by the arm or shoulder," he told prosecutors, according to Vyasnya. "I then succeeded. I took him by his uniform and pulled."

Pyaskou said he didn't know why he acted, other than that "I wanted to save a man. It was necessary to stop the conflict." The officer in question, he said in court on September 18, was probably injured before he ran up to him.

Pyaskou, who had been under house arrest, was jailed following his testimony. He eventually received a sentence of three years and three months in prison.

Political Prisoners

Veranika Pyaskou said there was no way her husband could have injured the officer.

"The officer was already lying on the ground, and he had only a slightly scratched knee and torn trousers," she told RFE/RL. "But when Paval approached to pick him up and resolve the conflict, the officer fell down as a result of the actions of another man, who is now wanted."

Vyasnya, which has documented thousands of detentions and cases of police abuse against demonstrators in the seven weeks since Belarus's election, responded quickly to the sentencing.

On September 30, the rights watchdog issued a lengthy statement in which it said Yeustsihneyeu and Pyaskou had been denied a fair trial, that their sentences were disproportionate to the offense, and that their lives would be in danger in prison.

"We declare that Paval Pyaskou and Uladzislau Yeustsihneyeu are recognized as political prisoners," Vyasna wrote, demanding their immediate release from custody and a review of the court's decision.

Written by Michael Scollon based on reporting by RFE/RL's Belarus Service
FLYSHARP SOUTHALL TRAVEL SCAMMERS AND FRAUD.

Am now at the airport where I have been since yesterday morning where I came for a flight home to Australia.

I booked with FLYSHARP through SKYSCANNER a business class ticket to Sydney Australia via San fransisco.

I booked business as they claimed the ticket would be flexible and called the agents, the airline and the subsequent airline that actually did the flight, (flight booked lufthansa but actually United air). Everyone advised that because I am Australian and I would just be transiting through San Fransisco I would be okay, I must have spent hundreds on calls to do this. LET ME REPEAT : EVERYONE ACTUALLY CONFIRMED THAT I WOUD NOT HAVE TROUBLE AT AIRPORT. I have call logs confirming this.

I even filled in a checkin and UNITED BOARDING check online the day before I left for the airport and was confirmed that all would be well.

I left my house, left my job, left my partner who has cancer, in the care of strangers so I can return hoe to my elderly other who has had a fall and is not well. In short I had left it all and was going home. No chance.

I arrived 3 hours earlier and was refused entry, Immediately went to the United Desk where they told me go to Lufthansa desk. Lufthansa said that I should call the agent and that I would not have an issue to change or cancel ticket as on their system they could see I was business class.

Next up, at least 2 hours before flight I kept calling the agent asking them to help.

They told me I am a no show and my ticket would be forfeit and that I have no claim. 'But I am at the airport and they will not lt me on!' I told them. They told me to hang up and that he would try to change the flight. Half an hour later they called back telling me they could not find flight till 2021. I was actually in communication, with various other flights actually going to Sydney via Singapore and I was trying to rebook,

Next up they told me I was only entitled to 300 pounds although I had forked out over 3200 pounds on this flight.

I told them to change or cancel or even voucher me the ticket, but they said because I am a no show this is the policy. ' BUT I AM HERE AT THE AIRPORT AND THE FLIGHT HAS 2 HOURS TO LEAVE ' i screamed as everyone at the airport turned to listen.

They told me to hang up and that they will call back later.

I went to the lufthansa desk, the agency that actually managed the ticket, and they said that on they system the fare was business and therefore refundable even at no show but because I had bought through agency I was meant to go through them.. I called to tell the agency this and they asked me to ask Lufthansa to confirm this with an internal note on their system, including the fact that I had shown up but was not entitled to board as all persons from UK where prohibited from entering USA apart from USA citizens, Lufthansa did this but the agent then said this wasnt enough.

1 hour later their manager called to tell me that there is nothing they can do and that I have to forfeit all my fare.

I was sat at the airport 12 hours in a desperate state with no money, no fare, no house and nothing to support me.

I called the agency for help with some accommodation, they said they could not help. I called again and asked for help in general, they stopped taking my calls.

I stayed at the airport till a family member managed to pay for a hotel near the airport via booking.com.

I am now at the airport again waiting, waiting, waiting, and there is no response from FLYSHARP - SOUTHALL TRAVEL.

What in heavens name will I do? Well the answer is 'They ripped me off and they do not care and now I am stuck in limbo waiting waiting waiting. The next flight is on Sunday 24 sept with Singapore, I have begged Australian embassy for money and now am calling friends and family for the extra 2000 pounds.

I have hardly eaten, I already feel sick and to top it off I have been taken for all my money which was meant to help me go home.

STAY WAY FROM FLYSHARP - SOUTHALL TRAVEL if you actually value your money, your sanity and your life, walking around the airport for hours on end cannot be good for health during a pandemic.

Good luck all, you have been warned,
Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett signed a letter in 2006 that included a call for the end of Roe v. Wade, denouncing the seminal court decision that provided a legal right to abortion as barbaric.

The letter came in the form of an advertisement from the antiabortion group St. Joseph County Right to Life, which was based in South Bend, Indiana.

The Supreme Courts 1973 Roe v. Wade decision legalized abortion for any reason, the ad read. Its time to put an end to the barbaric legacy of Roe v. Wade and restore laws that protect the lives of unborn children.

At the time of the ad, Barrett worked as a law professor at the University of Notre Dame. The views expressed in the letter reflect the thinking of a vast majority of conservatives and many Catholics. But they present potential political problems for Barrett now that she is President Donald Trumps nominee for the Supreme Court.

Fair Use

Trump, on Tuesday night, tried to downplay the notion that Barretts confirmation could result in the overturning of Roe, saying that there was no way to know that abortion rights could be affected by her taking the seat of the recently deceased Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

The letter from St. Joseph County Right to Life was first reported by The Guardian, which reported that the group also believes that discarding of unused or frozen embryos created in the in vitro fertilization (IVF) process ought to be criminalized.

Coming to Barretts defense, Ramesh Pannuru, a writer for the National Review, argued that she only signed on to one-half of the letterthe part that called for ending abortion on demand"and not the adjoining page, which called Roe barbaric. Both sides were run in the paper by St. Joseph County Right to Life.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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BJP MP Locket Chatterjee on Thursday said that the culprits in the Hathras gang-rape incident should be killed in an encounter in front of the public. A 19-year-old Dalit woman was raped in Hathras in Uttar Pradesh by four men on September 14. After her condition deteriorated, she was referred to Delhis Safdarjung Hospital where she died on Tuesday.

The brutal incident has caused a nationwide outrage and led to criticism of the BJP government in Uttar Pradesh. This is not a question of politics. The culprits should be brought before the public and killed in encounter, Chatterjee said here in Jhargram district.

The way she was raped and killed, no leniency should be shown to the offenders, she told reporters after leading a rally taken out in support of the newly passed farm laws. Chatterjee, who left her acting career to join politics, is the Lok Sabha MP from Hooghly in West Bengal.
PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Kaskela Law LLC announces that it is investigating Maxar Technologies Inc. ("Maxar" or the "Company") (NYSE: MAXR) on behalf of the company's stockholders.

Recently an amended securities fraud complaint was filed against Maxar on behalf of investors who purchased shares of Maxar's common stock between March 26, 2018 to January 6, 2019. According to the complaint, during that time period Maxar and certain of the company's executive officers knowingly and/or recklessly issued a series of false and misleading statements regarding: (i) the Company's financial reporting of GeoComm's materially impaired balance sheet assets; (ii) a geosynchronous satellite construction contract known as AMOS-8 that proved to be illusory; and (iii) the October 2018 failure of the WorldView-4 imagery satellite concealed from investors.

The investigation seeks to determine whether the members of Maxar's board of directors breached their fiduciary duties to Maxar and its stockholders in connection with the above alleged misconduct.

Current Maxar stockholders who purchased or acquired shares of Maxar's common stock prior to March 26, 2018 are encouraged to contact Kaskela Law LLC (D. Seamus Kaskela, Esq.) at (484) 258  1585, or by email at [email protected] or online at http://kaskelalaw.com/case/maxar-technologies-inc/, for additional information about this investigation and their legal rights and options.

Kaskela Law LLC represents investors in securities fraud, corporate governance, and merger & acquisition litigation. For additional information about Kaskela Law LLC please visit www.kaskelalaw.com. This notice may constitute attorney advertising in certain jurisdictions.

CONTACT:

D. Seamus Kaskela, Esq.

KASKELA LAW LLC

18 Campus Blvd., Suite 100

Newtown Square, PA 19073

(484) 258  1585

(888) 715  1740

www.kaskelalaw.com

[email protected]

SOURCE Kaskela Law LLC

Related Links

http://www.kaskelalaw.com


A prominent Belarus opposition figure and an imprisoned Iranian human rights lawyer on Thursday were awarded the Right Livelihood Award, sometimes referred to as the Alternative Nobel, together with activists from Nicaragua and the United States.

Ole von Uexkull, the head of the Swedish Right Livelihood Foundation behind the prize said that it highlights the increasing threats to democracy globally. It is high time that all of us supporting democracy around the world stand up and support each other.

The foundation cited 58-year-old human rights activist Ales Bialiatski and the non-governmental organization Human Rights Center Viasna which he heads, for their resolute struggle for the realization of democracy and human rights in Belarus.

In 2014, Bialiatski was released nearly three years into his prison sentence, ahead of schedule. He was convicted of tax evasion and sentenced to 4  years in prison in November 2011. Western governments criticized the trial as politically vindictive.

Bialiatski was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2012 and received an array of international awards while imprisoned. His group has provided legal assistance to thousands of Belarusians arrested or imprisoned for challenging President Alexander Lukashenkos rule.

Iranian lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh who has defended activists, opposition politicians and women prosecuted for removing their headscarves, was given the award for her fearless activism, at great personal risk, to promote political freedoms and human rights in Iran.

Earlier this month, Sotoudeh was transferred from a prison cell to a hospital north of Tehran following a hunger strike for better prison conditions and the release of political prisoners amid the pandemic. She has since ended her hunger strike that began in mid-August.

The 57-year-old Sotoudeh was arrested in 2018 on charges of collusion and propaganda against Irans rulers and eventually was sentenced to 38 years in prison and 148 lashes.

Created in 1980, the annual Right Livelihood Award honors efforts that the prize founder, Swedish-German philanthropist Jakob von Uexkull, felt were being ignored by the Nobel prizes.

The foundation also gave its 2020 award to Milton, Delaware-born U.S. civil rights lawyer Bryan Stevenson, 60, for his inspiring endeavor to reform the U.S. criminal justice system and advance racial reconciliation in the face of historic trauma.

The fourth winner was 61-year-old rights and environmental activist Lottie Cunningham Wren of Nicaragua for her ceaseless dedication to the protection of indigenous lands and communities from exploitation and plunder.

Defying unjust legal systems and dictatorial political regimes, they successfully strengthen human rights, empower civil societies and denounce institutional abuses, said von Uexkull, the foundations executive director and nephew of the founder.

The winners will each receive prize money of 1 million kronor ($110,100) and will be honored during a virtual award ceremony on Dec. 3.

Earlier recipients of the Right Livelihood Award include Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg.

___

Jan M. Olsen in Copenhagen, Denmark, contributed to this report.
NEW YORK, Sept. 30, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- WeissLaw LLP is investigating possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of law by the board of directors of WPX Energy, Inc. ("WPX" or the "Company") (NYSE: WPX) in connection with the proposed acquisition of the Company by Devon Energy Corporation ("DVN") (NYSE: DVN). Under the terms of the acquisition agreement, the Company's shareholders will receive 0.5165 shares of DVN for each share of WPX common stock that they own, representing implied per-share merger consideration of $4.94 based upon DVN's September 29, 2020 closing price of $9.57.

If you own WPX shares and wish to discuss this investigation or have any questions concerning this notice or your rights or interests, visit our website:

http://www.weisslawllp.com/WPX/

Or please contact:

Joshua Rubin, Esq.

WeissLaw LLP

1500 Broadway, 16th Floor

New York, NY 10036

(212) 682-3025

(888) 593-4771

[email protected]

WeissLaw is investigating whether WPX's board acted in the best interest of the Company's public shareholders in agreeing to the proposed transaction, whether the board was fully informed as to the valuation of WPX and DVN, and whether all information regarding the valuation of the transaction will be fully and fairly disclosed to WPX's public shareholders. Notably, WPX had traded as high as $6.79 during the sixty days preceding the announcement of the proposed transaction, and at least one analyst set a price target for WPX of $14.00 per share, or approximately $9.00 per share above the implied per-share consideration.

WeissLaw LLP has litigated hundreds of stockholder class and derivative actions for violations of corporate and fiduciary duties. We have recovered over a billion dollars for defrauded clients and obtained important corporate governance relief in many of these cases. If you have information or would like legal advice concerning possible corporate wrongdoing (including insider trading, waste of corporate assets, accounting fraud, or materially misleading information), consumer fraud (including false advertising, defective products, or other deceptive business practices), or anti-trust violations, please email us at [email protected]

SOURCE WeissLaw LLP

Related Links

http://weisslawllp.com


The ramped-up negotiations come as challenging economic news continues to confront policymakers. The airlines are furloughing about 30,000 workers with the expiration of aid passed earlier this year, and a report Thursday showed 837,000 people claiming jobless benefits for the first time last week. Most of the economic benefits of an immediate round of COVID relief could accrue under the next administration, and failure now could mean no significant help for struggling families and businesses until February.
A leading barrister has been fined 750 after he suggested a judge only got her job because she was female and Asian.

Timothy Becker sent an email in which he said the woman - named as Deputy District Judge Hussain - had only been given the role because of 'positive discrimination'.

According to the Ministry of Justice, the only justice with that surname is Deputy District Judge Anitra Hussain, a former human rights barrister.

Mr Becker, the head of a central London chambers, accepted he was 'careless' with his language and admitted that anyone reading the email would know what he was implying.

Timothy Becker, pictured, the head of a central London chambers, accepted he was 'careless' with his language and admitted that anyone reading the email would know what he was implying

A hearing held by the Bar Tribunals and Adjudication Service heard there was initially disagreement as to whether Mr Becker intended the remarks to be racist.

Mr Becker, who is head of Burlington Chambers in Piccadilly, did not admit the charge of professional misconduct until the morning of the hearing.

He indicated he did not think his comments could be seen as racist or sexist.

Ms Evans, counsel for the Bar Standards Board, said it was irrelevant what Mr Becker intended by the remarks.

During the hearing Mr Becker accepted that sending the email would have diminished the trust and confidence the public had in him as a barrister.

The tribunal therefore decided it was unnecessary to determine whether he meant the remarks to be racist or not as it was professional misconduct regardless.

The tribunal said: 'Timothy Becker, on 18 August 2018, acting for the defendant in civil proceedings under the public access scheme, sent an email.

'[He] suggested to the [recipient] that the Deputy District Judge in those proceedings, who happened to be female and Asian, had only secured her position as a result of 'positive discrimination' in the judicial recruitment process.'

It went on to conclude: 'There can be no excuse for a member of the Bar to make such a statement, still less to make it in the course of litigation.

'The remarks were rude and wholly contrary to the Bar's commitment to equality.

Deputy District Judge Anitra Hussain, pictured, is a former human rights barrister who was called to the bar in 1994

'It is admitted by Mr Becker that a reasonable reader would have understood his remarks about DDJ Hussain being appointed as a consequence of 'positive discrimination' as a reference to her sex and/or race.

'He has now admitted that sending the email was likely to diminish the trust and confidence that the public places in him and the profession.

'As such, it is unnecessary for us to determine what meaning Mr Becker actually intended to convey.'

Mr Becker, who was called to the bar in 1992, was reprimanded by the tribunal and ordered to pay a fine of 750.

Judge Hussain, who has since been promoted to District Judge, is a former human rights barrister who was called to the bar in 1994.

The experienced advocate spends half her time teaching civil litigation and judicial review at The University of Law and the other half as a District Judge.
South Africa: SA to participate in 25th Anniversary of the Fourth World Conference

President Cyril Ramaphosa will later today address a virtual high-level meeting to mark the 25th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women, convened by the United Nations General Assembly.

The meeting, to be held under the theme Accelerating the realisation of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls, forms part of the high-level week of the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA75).

The meeting also takes place in the context of the General Assemblys anniversary under the theme, The future we want, the United Nations we need: reaffirming our collective commitment to multilateralism.

The meeting will present an opportunity to review progress made in the implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action in the context of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The meeting will also afford Heads of State and Government and other leaders an opportunity to present concrete new actions, and demonstrate commitments to accelerate the realisation of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls by 2030, including in support of the role of civil society organisations and youth.

The inaugural Fourth World Conference on Women was held in Beijing, China, in 1995 and adopted the Beijing Declaration  an international blueprint to achieve gender equality and women empowerment.

The Declaration remains an important UN instrument in pursuing the global womens agenda of a full and equal share in economic, social, cultural and political decision-making and aims to creating an environment where women and men relations are based on a principle of shared power and responsibility, whether in the workplace or in the wider national and international communities.  SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2020-10-01. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
LAS VEGAS - Donald Trump and Joe Biden debated. Americans cringed.

After the presidential candidates put on one of the noisiest, most chaotic debates in recent memory, voters across the country struggled for words  printable words  to describe the display. Many went first to profanities. Others landed on more polite, but still biting, terms for the live, prime-time event, long considered evidence of the rigours of U.S. democracy: A joke, a disgrace and so disrespectful.

I was sad. It was sad, and it was very pathetic, said Rickey Hampton, as the 54-year-old stood inside the doorway of his Las Vegas apartment.

It was another day of reckoning with the nations rapidly transforming political culture and its seemingly irreparable divisions. In interviews with voters across key states in the contest, those who watched the spectacle nearly unanimously recoiled from it. Many said Trump was the instigator, whose frequent interruptions blew up the rules and any pretense that the men were there to discuss policy.

None said it would change their minds on how they planned to vote. Instead, voters on both sides said it only reaffirmed their positions.

Hampton, who works at a tuxedo and tailoring shop in Las Vegas, said that the presidents decorum was not presidential at all and that he appeared to speak only to his base of supporters, not to the American people.

Trumps refusal to condemn white supremacy reaffirmed for him as a Black man that voting is not enough  he must urge other people, specifically his Black friends and family, to vote, something he doesnt normally do, he said.

This is really life or death, and hes letting you know, Hampton said. This is serious. ... You have to vote. You really have to get out there. This is different.

In Wisconsin, Donald Darwin, a 52-year-old white man, heard something different from the president, saying he felt he appropriately condemned white supremacists when asked about it by moderator Chris Wallace.

Trump said exactly what Wallace asked him to say. He told them to stand down, said the engineer from Wautoma.

He acceded the debate appeared to get out of hand at times, but he stopped well short of faulting Trump and praised him as a fighter.

This election is incredibly important. If Trump were to give an inch, you can bet Biden and the left would have savaged him over it, he said.

Keith Valentine, a 37-year-old Las Vegas Democrat, said the president behaved like a narcissist, and he turned off his television after watching the debate for about 10 minutes. We knew it was going to be like that for an hour.

Valentine, who is reluctantly voting for Biden, said he wasnt shocked by what he saw and dismissed the idea that it was nastiness on display. That is two old people, two rich people bickering, he said.

Nastiness is what its like to be Black in America. Or be a minority in America. Be a woman in America, said Valentine, who is Black. Youve dealt with far worse.

The debate that played out Tuesday, coming amid a pandemic, months of protest and unrest over racial injustice and other compounding crises in America, was a moment where all of us were like, Something is wrong here. Something is deeply wrong here, said Amytess Girgis, a 21-year-old University of Michigan student in Ann Arbor.

Im not sure if any of the debates are going to change anybodys mind, said Girgis, who intends to vote for Biden. Im sort of of the disposition that the vast majority of Americans have decided who theyre voting for. The question is the body of Americans who are deciding whether or not to vote at all.

Bill Kitz, a 62-year-old Republican in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, spoke at the front door of his Victorian within blocks of Lake Winnebago. He voted for Trump in 2016 but regrets it. He said he had already planned to vote for Biden but was taken aback by Trumps behaviour, which he called unseemly.

Id had enough of this kind of thing for a long time, said Kitz, a 62-year-old education professor at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh. But my wife and I watched the debate last night and were just sickened by the spectacle of this man, who the nations of the world are supposed to look up to, disparaging Biden, no matter what you think of Biden and his years in Washington.

Across the country in front of her central Las Vegas apartment, 61-year-old Maria Loomis, a new Republican, said the debate reaffirmed her decision to vote for the president.

Donald Trump, he wont listen to anybody. He marches to his own drum, she said. He gets the results that need to be done. He may not be ethical about it sometimes, and hes not social graceful, either. But it gets done.

Loomis, who registered for the first time to cast her ballot for Trump this year, acknowledged her candidate was often the aggressor, but said she thought the former vice-president didnt have much to say and appeared weak.

She described the debate as a couple of kids on a schoolyard but wrote it off as politics as usual.

The debate was no debate. Period. It was just ne-ne-ne-ne-ne-ne-ne, she said, using her hands to mimic talking back and forth.

___

Associated Press writers Thomas Beaumont in Oshkosh, Wis., and Mike Householder in Detroit contributed to this report.
Acker, the worlds destination for fine and rare wine, announced today a set of strategic hires including the appointment of Jamie Pollack as Global Managing Director of Business Development and Sales, and Alicia Martell, who will serve as Global Head of Authentication and Quality Control.

Already the leading wine auction house in the world for eight of the last ten years, the hires of Pollack and Martell form part of Ackers extensive, strategic plan to extend its holdings over the lions share of the luxury wine market  by volume of wine sold and dollar earnings, and cement Acker as the undisputed leader in the fine wine sales and wine authentication spaces.

Previously serving as Global Managing Director of Auctions at a competing firm, Pollack will support key business initiatives, and service its highest net worth clients, while managing sales teams across Ackers offices in Hong Kong, Tokyo, London, Brussels, Copenhagen, New York, and Delaware. Her wine legacy spans two decades, the last of which she spent leading competing wine auction house, Zachys, to achieve its highest ever year-end earnings of over US $120M. Also serving as auctioneer, Pollack oversaw multiple, landmark auctions, such as a Chateau-direct offering from Lafite Rothschild. Prior to her tenure at Zachys, Jamie worked in fine wine distribution and retail sales, and also served as Wine Director of New York City institution, the Carlyle, and as sommelier at the three-Michelin starred Le Bernardin. Jamie achieved certifications from the American Sommelier Association and the Wine and Spirits Education Trust Diploma, and also joined harvests in Central Otago and Burgundy, most notably at Domaine Georges Mugneret-Gibourg in Vosne Romanee. Jamies position with Acker will begin in November.

It is my pleasure to work alongside Ackers executive team in leading this great company into a new era of growth, said Pollack. My primary objective in joining the team is to continue to elevate the company to the wine worlds highest standard; undisputed leader in the luxury wine space in client service, sales and professionalism. I am extremely proud to bring my experience, passion, and integrity to this legacy company, which was built on these very principles two hundred years ago.

Adding to an established roster of strong women executives at Acker is Alicia Martell, already regarded as one of the most respected wine authenticators in the industry. Martell will spearhead inspection and authentication over the hundreds of thousands of bottles that go through Ackers auctions annually. Formerly Director of Auction Operations at Zachys, Alicia brings a wealth of knowledge regarding the wine authentication process and will manage quality control procedures across Ackers global operation, elevating existing processes to the highest specifications.

Said Acker Chairman, John Kapon, of the new hires, Jamie and Alicias addition to the Acker team and the incorporation of their experience with our record-setting auction team is a monumental step in support of our mission to expand our growth, bolster our processes, and continue providing a level of service second-to-none in the industry. I am thrilled to have these two executives join our team as we take Acker into the next chapter of its history.

Pollack and Martell come to Acker at a time of great investment on behalf of the company toward expansion and innovation, including the opening of offices in London and Denmark, a new US operation in Delaware, and the launch of a new website. The company is also developing key strategic partnerships and working on pioneering authentication technology that it believes will significantly impact the entire industry.

Acker CEO, Irv Goldman, shared, These strong additions to Acker will bring a new level of expertise and prowess to our business, as we continue to navigate a period unlike any other. Acker has consistently held the number one spot in the fine wine marketplace for well over a decade, and we are dedicated to continuing our growth, not only from a sales perspective, but also in how we approach expansion, processes, and procedures to ensure that we set the highest quality standards in the industry.

For more information, please visit http://www.AckerWines.com.

About Acker

Established in 1820, Acker is the oldest wine shop in America and the worlds largest fine and rare wine auction house. Since third-generation wine merchant John Kapon, Chairman of Acker, started the auction business in 1998, the house has gained worldwide recognition. Acker offers a vast array of services, including cellar consultations, a deep retail inventory of fine and rare wine for immediate sale, first-class wine education amenities, and its ne plus ultra  fine and rare wine auctions.
A solar panel installation on a Benton County building in Corvallis is one of the latest local projects aimed at saving energy.

Panels are being installed on the building, at 4500 S.W. Research Way, this week as part of Solarize Corvallis, a joint effort by the Corvallis Sustainability Coalition and the Oregon Clean Power Cooperative with a goal of covering Corvallis roofs with solar panels paid in part through investments by local residents.

The $173,000 project is a 110-kilowatt array using 288 solar panels.

Solarize Corvallis uses community investment to finance solar and battery systems at Corvallis government buildings, low-income housing, nonprofits and schools. Corvallis residents bought shares of stock in the Benton County project through the Oregon Clean Power Cooperative and will earn a return on their investment over a 10-year period.

Division of the project funding on the Benton County building includes $60,000 from the county, $47,000 from the community through the Oregon Clean Power Cooperative, $46,000 from tax credits and $20,000 from Energy Trust of Oregon.

Weve found that Corvallis residents have been eager to put their money to work in ways that benefit both the planet and our community, Annette Mills, facilitator of the Corvallis Sustainability Coalition, said in a release from the county. The response has been tremendous.

Mills said earlier this year that a big part of her groups interest in such projects is to help organizations save money.

The Research Way building, bought by Benton County earlier this year, will eventually be used to consolidate several of the countys offices into one location, though Alyssa Rash, Benton Countys public information officer, says that is a long-term goal.

Half of the building is currently being leased to Fiserv, a company that owned the building originally. The other half has been used by the county to house its joint information center and as the site of the emergency operations center when needed, Rash said.

Benton County plans a renovation to include extensive energy efficiency improvements. The goal, aided by the new solar panels, is to make the building as close to net-zero energy as possible.

Other Solarize Corvallis projects include those at the Corvallis School District office (150 kilowatts), Corvallis High School (117) and Old Mill Center for Children and Families (100). The Old Mill project was completed in late August.

Those funding the Corvallis School District and Corvallis High School projects recently received their annual principal and interest repayment checks, according to the county.

We have lots of trees shading our house, so we cant put up solar panels, says Corvallis Mayor Biff Traber, who as a private citizen has invested in several Corvallis solar projects. So I was delighted to be able to join the community in investing in these solar projects.

Money to repay the investors comes from the energy cost savings realized by the end users of the solar arrays, explained Dan Orzech, the general manager of the Oregon Clean Power Cooperative

"The whole proposition is a win-win-win," Orzech said. "The investors make money, the county or church or school that gets the project, they save money, and they shift to clean power, so the planet benefits as well."

During the completion of the Old Mill project, Orzech told the newspaper that participants can get involved for as little as $1,000 and that the average investor contributes $5,000.

Investors were seeing 4% returns at that time, but future returns cannot be guaranteed, Orzech said.

There arent many ways people can invest in their community and get a return, he said. This gives them that opportunity. It gives everyday folks a chance to get involved.

Jesse Sowa can be reached via email at jesse.sowa@lee.net. Follow him on Twitter, @JesseSowaGT.

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GE Aviation's new GE9X just received clearance to fly by the Federal Aviation Administration. JASON REDMOND/AFP/Getty

GE Aviation's new GE9X engine just received clearance to fly by the Federal Aviation Administration.

Boeing selected General Electric to build the engines for its new 777X in 2013 and the result would be the world's largest jet engine.

The GE9X will exclusively power the 777X and offer increased fuel efficiency and over 100,000 pounds of thrust.

Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

The world's largest plane engine was just cleared to fly by the Federal Aviation Administration, paving the way for the commercial launch of the world's largest twin-engine passenger jet in 2022.

General Electric's aviation subsidiary, GE Aviation, is celebrating the milestone with its massive new GE9X engine that will soon fly thousands of passengers around the world every day. It's the exclusive engine for the Boeing 777X, a next-generation version of the manufacturer's famed 777 wide-body aircraft used by the likes of American Airlines, British Airways, and Emirates.

Boeing first gave GE Aviation the exclusive contract to develop and build the engines for the 777X in 2013. A likely match, GE Aviation currently make the GE90 engines that are used by some airlines currently flying the 777, including Qatar Airways which operates the world's longest 777 route between Doha, Qatar, and Auckland, New Zealand.

The engine's certification brings Boeing one step closer to delivering the finished product to launch customer Emirates in 2022. The coronavirus pandemic has slowed enthusiasm for new aircraft deliveries but the 777X is a feat of engineering that offers a 400-seat passenger cabin and increased fuel efficiency at a time when airlines need it the most.

Take a closer look at the GE Aviation GE9X engine.

The 777X is slated to be Boeing's redemption after being plagued by problems on its 737 Max and 787 Dreamliner families, two revolutionary aircraft that haven't been able to stay out of the headlines in recent years.

Story continues

A taxing Boeing 777X in Seattle, Washington. JASON REDMOND/AFP/Getty

The world's largest twin-engine is chock full of interesting features, including a wingspan so large that it requires retractable wingtips so it doesn't hit other airplanes while taxiing.

A Boeing 777X aircraft preparing for takeoff. JASON REDMOND/AFP/Getty

Read More: The third Boeing 777X just flew for the first time  take a look at the enormous new flagship Boeing hopes will be its redemption

But behind any great aircraft is an equally great engine, and that's where the GE Aviation GE9X comes in.

A Boeing 777X test flight. Stephen Brashear/Getty

Boeing tapped General Electric to power the 777X in 2013, requiring a new engine for the next-generation plane.

A GE Aviation GE9X engine during testing. General Electric

The massive engines are the exclusive powerplant for the 777X, having the world's largest twin-engine jet all to itself and vice versa.

A GE Aviation GE9X engine during testing. General Electric

It's not an uncommon practice for an engine to have a monopoly on an aircraft, especially with the specialized next-generation aircraft from Boeing and Airbus.

A GE Aviation GE9X engine during testing. General Electric

The Airbus A350 XWB, for example, only uses Rolls-Royce engines.

An Airbus A350-1000 XWB aircraft with Rolls-Royce engines. Tom Buysse/Shutterstock.com

And GE Aviation didn't disappoint, giving Boeing an engine that boasts 10% greater efficiency compared to its predecessor

A GE Aviation GE9X engine during testing. General Electric

Source: General Electric

Over 100,000 pounds of thrust per engine.

A GE Aviation GE9X engine during testing. General Electric

Source: General Electric

And the lowest noise level of any GE Aviation engine.

A GE Aviation GE9X engine during testing. General Electric

Source: General Electric

It's the largest airplane engine ever built but the use of composites and 3D printing actually makes it lighter than if using titanium, found on predecessor engines.

A GE Aviation GE9X engine during testing. General Electric

Source: General Electric

The list price for each engine is over $70 million and airlines make their own deals to buy the engines from GE Aviation, though some of the leverage is gone since GE is the exclusive engine manufacturer for the 777X.

A GE Aviation GE9X engine during testing. General Electric

Source: General Electric

The engine is so large that GE Aviation couldn't help but show off some size comparisons.

A GE Aviation GE9X engine used exclusively on the Boeing 777X. JASON REDMOND/AFP/Getty

With a 134-inch diameter, a 7-foot-tall person could comfortably stand in the engine cavity with room to spare.

The GE Aviation GE9X engine that powers the Boeing 777X. TERRAY SYLVESTER/Reuters

In fact, it's around the same width as a Boeing 737 fuselage, one of Boeing's most popular airliners.

A GE9X engine is roughly the same size as a Boeing 737 fuselage. General Electric

Keep in mind, a 737 seats six people across one row separated by an aisle.

A Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 interior. Thomas Pallini/Business Insider

GE Aviation has already delivered 10 GE9X engines to Boeing's Everett, Washington facility for the 777X test aircraft.

A Boeing 777X equipped with a GE Aviation GE9X engine. Boeing

Boeing has four test aircraft currently crisscrossing the country in preparation for its Federal Aviation Administration certification and entry into service in 2022.

Boeing's third 777X aircraft departing on a test flight. Boeing

The first flight of the world's longest twin-engine jet took place in January 2020, and so began the flight-testing campaign.

A Boeing 777X aircraft departing Paine Field. JASON REDMOND/AFP/Getty

The GE9X will be specific to the 777X but testing the engine required an even bigger aircraft, the venerable Boeing 747.

A GE Aviation GE9X engine during testing. General Electric

GE Aviation uses the Queen of the Skies as a testbed aircraft for new engines to put them through their paces in the air.

A GE Aviation GE9X engine during testing. General Electric

Flight testing began with the 747 in March 2018 with the GE9X racking up over 5,000 hours in the sky before even coming near a 777X.

A Boeing 777X taxing at Paine Field. JASON REDMOND/AFP/Getty

Source: General Electric

In the course of the 5,000 hours of testing, the engine held up across 3,000 take-offs and landings.

A Boeing 777X aircraft. LINDSEY WASSON/Reuters

Various conditions are simulated including icing and rain, while also testing the engine against debris.

A Boeing 777X taxing to the hangar. TERRAY SYLVESTER/Reuters

GE Aviation has racked up billions in orders for the engines, with over 600 on order from the various 777X carriers. That's over $20 billion in orders before the first aircraft has even been delivered, with maintenance programs also bringing in additional revenue.

A Boeing 777X with its wingtips retracted. TERRAY SYLVESTER/Reuters

The first users of the GE9X will be the 777X's launch customers including Emirates...

An Emirates passenger plane comes in to land at London's Heathrow Airport. Reuters

All Nippon Airways...

An All Nippon Airways Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. YOSHIKAZU TSUNO/AFP/Getty

British Airways...

A British Airways Boeing 777. Reuters

Qatar Airways...

A Qatar Airways Boeing 777-200LR. Thomas Pallini/Business Insider

Etihad Airways...

An Etihad Airways Boeing 777 aircraft. Thomas Pallini/Business Insider

Singapore Airlines...

A Singapore Airlines Boeing 777 aircraft. Soos Jozsef / Shutterstock.com

Lufthansa...

A Lufthansa Boeing 747-8i. Larry Downing/Reuters

And Cathay Pacific.

A Cathay Pacific Boeing 777 plane lands at Hong Kong International Airport. Reuters

Boeing picking GE Aviation for the engine comes as no surprise since GE90 engines have been faithfully powering current-generation 777 aircraft.

A Boeing 777-300ER aircraft powered by GE Aviation engines. Shutterstock.com

The pandemic has slowed Boeing's production schedule for the 777X and the first delivery isn't expected until 2022.

A Boeing 777X aircraft in flight. Boeing

But when it is delivered, the world will look on as the world's largest plane carries the world's largest engines into the next era of aviation.

Boeing stages the first flight of its 777X plane outside Seattle, Reuters

Read the original article on Business Insider
WASHINGTON - The Smithsonian Institution laid off 237 employees from its shops, theaters and concessions this week, part of ongoing cost-cutting measures meant to limit the financial losses related to covid-19.

The layoffs are the first permanent staff cuts made by the world's largest museum organization since it was forced to close its sites March 14 to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. The Smithsonian lost $49 million - from store and restaurant revenue as well as canceled ticketed events, classes and tours - between March and September, spokeswoman Linda St. Thomas said.

Eight facilities have reopened in since July, including the National Museum of American History and the National Museum of the American Indian last week.

"We tried to retain as many [employees] as we possibly could," said Ed Howell, head of retail for Smithsonian Enterprises, the revenue-generating division of the sprawling institution. "But the vision is that this is going to go on for an extended period of time. Financially, it was a real struggle."

The layoffs took effect Monday, the start of the first pay period of the fiscal year that began Oct. 1. Most of those let go received full pay and benefits between March 14 and July 5, when they were furloughed as the covid-related closures continued, Howell said.

At the end of April, Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch announced salary and hiring freezes and 10% salary cuts for 87 senior-level, nonfederal executives - including 19 from Smithsonian Enterprises - for a year beginning May 24. Bunch and Deputy Secretary Meroe Park took 15% cuts for the same period.

An additional 66 Smithsonian Enterprises employees earning $100,000 or more were hit with 5% cuts. The division had 550 employees before the pandemic.

The majority of the institution's 6,300 employees are federal workers and not affected by these moves.

A survey by the American Alliance of Museums found that 44% of museums initiated furloughs or layoffs as a result of the pandemic; a report from this summer estimated that about 1,500 employees nationwide had been laid off since March.

Federal funds from Congress make up two-thirds of the Smithsonian's $1.5 billion annual budget, allowing the museums to offer free admission. The $500 million balance comes from endowment funds and donations, the revenue it earns from ticketed programs, shop receipts, parking and other activities.

The eight facilities that have reopened - the National Zoo, the National Air and Space Museum's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Va., the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the Smithsonian American Art Museum, the Renwick Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery round out the list - are operating on reduced schedules, with limited capacity and with new health and safety protocols. Visitors are required to wear masks, obtain free timed passes in advance and practice social distancing.

The store at the Udvar-Hazy center is open and those at the American History, American Indian and African American museums are expected to reopen in a few weeks. Howell said the Smithsonian hopes to open more stores as visitor numbers increase and staff become familiar with new procedures.

Online sales - especially of books, puzzles and children's games - have increased since the pandemic, but nothing compared to in-person sales. "No, there's no offset there, Howell said.

"It is a tough time obviously for the people who have lost their positions and for their colleagues in the stores that worked closely with them. They are part of the Smithsonian family," he said. "The sooner we can bring them back the happier we all will be."

The layoffs don't include those who work in the Smithsonian's eight cafeterias and cafes, which are operated by Restaurant Associates and remain closed.
She is currently back on-set of her upcoming HBO Max series The Flight Attendant after COVID-19 paused production in March.

And Kaley Cuoco was spotted taking her beloved senior rescue dog Dumpy out on a morning stroll through New York City on Wednesday.

The 34-year-old Big Bang Theory star donned a medical grade face mask and let her lengthy blonde hair flow freely.

Dog mom: Kaley Cuoco was spotted taking her beloved senior rescue dog Dumpy out on a morning stroll through New York City on Wednesday

Due to the early hour, Kaley decided to stay in her pajamas, which consisted of an oversized white equestrian-themed tee and a pair of cosmic pants.

She slipped her fee into a pair of white polka-dot slides as she kept Dumpy's precious paws off the city sidewalk.

Despite being in her arms, Kaley kept a hot pink leash attached to her pup who looked beyond happy to be in her clutches.

After taking care of business, Kaley and Dumpy made their way back to their part-time abode.

Fresh faced: The 34-year-old Big Bang Theory star donned a medical grade face mask and let her lengthy blonde hair flow freely

Kaley recently moved into a newly renovated mansion in Los Angeles with husband of two-years Karl Cook, 29.

Since her and Dumpy are currently residence of NYC, Cuoco launched an Instagram titled 'Dumps Does NY' where she documents all of their adventures in the Big Apple.

Besides keeping her fanbase updated on how Dumpy is adjusting to the East Coast, Kaley has also been using her personal Instagram page to share her hilarious filming-related experiences.

Story time: Besides keeping her fanbase updated on how Dumpy is adjusting to the East Coast, Kaley has also been using her personal Instagram page to share her hilarious filming-related experiences

Yikes: According to the starlet, she had set her alarm clock for 4:40am, but it did not end up going off

Earlier in the day, the actress took to her Instagram Story to recall a scare she had with the settings on her iPhone alarm clock.

According to the starlet, she had set her alarm clock for 4:40am, but it did not end up going off.

'I mad panicked! How can I ever trust my phone or anything ever again,' she wrote, before revealing that her alarm never went off because she set it for 4:40pm on accident.

Accidents happen: 'I mad panicked! How can I ever trust my phone or anything ever again,' she wrote, before revealing that her alarm never went off because she set it for 4:40pm on accident

She recalled: 'Low and behold at 4:45pm, while shooting, my phone goes off loudly while we were rolling.'

Despite the alarm debacle, Kaley has been having a blast getting back to work on The Flight Attendant.

Most recently, Cuoco was seen shooting exteriors for the highly anticipated series in downtown Manhattan.

Back to work: Kaley is currently back on-set of her upcoming HBO Max series The Flight Attendant after COVID-19 paused production in March; Kaley pictured in March

The new dramatic thriller will follow the titular flight attendant (Cuoco) as she wakes up hungover in a hotel room in Dubai, with a dead body lying next to her  and no recollection of the night before.

The Flight Attendant happens to be based on the best-selling novel of the same name written by author Chris Bohjalian and published in 2018.

Kaley stars alongside Grey's Anatomy alum T. R. Knight and The Haunting Of Hill House actor Michiel Huisman.

The Flight Attendant: The new dramatic thriller will follow the titular flight attendant (Cuoco) as she wakes up hungover in a hotel room in Dubai, with a dead body lying next to her  and no recollection of the night before; Kaley pictured in March
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 2, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan held a phone conversation with U.S. Presidents National Security Advisor Robert O'Brien.

As ARMENPRESS was informed from the Office of the Prime Minister of Armenia, Robert O'Brien expressed deep concerns over the situation in the South Caucasus. He reaffirmed that the USA is interested in a ceasefire and stability without delays and readiness to be useful for Armenia and the region. The National Security Advisor underlined that the conflict has no military solution and reaffirmed the position of the USA over the conflict settlement as established in the joint statement issued by the Presidents of the USA, Russia and France.

The PM presented the situation in detail, focusing on the issue of Turkeys involvement in the military operations and sending Syrian mercenaries and terrorists by Turkey to Azerbaijan. The PM emphasized the necessity of ousting the mercenaries and terrorists from the region, without which its impossible to establish ceasefire.

According to numerous media reports, Turkey has sent islamists from Syria to Azerbaijan ranging from 3.000 to 4.000 to fight against Artsakh. Russia, France and USA have confirmed the information.

Editing and translating by Tigran Sirekanyan
NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN THE US

Kuros Biosciences Hosts an Expert Perspectives Webinar on Pioneering Solutions for Targeted and Controlled Bone Healing

Call Taking Place on Wednesday, October 14, 2020 @ 2pm Central European Time (CET)

Schlieren (Zurich), Switzerland, October 1, 2020 - Kuros Biosciences (SIX: KURN), a leader in next generation bone graft technologies, will host an expert perspectives webinar on pioneering solutions for targeted and controlled bone healing on Wednesday, October 14, 2020 at 2pm Central European Time (CET).

The call will feature a presentation by Key Opinion Leaders John Chi, MD, MPH, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Alpesh Patel, MD, Northwestern Medicine, who will discuss Kuros's products, Fibrin-PTH (KUR-113) and MagnetOs, which promote targeted and controlled bone healing. Drs. Patel and Chi will be available to answer questions at the conclusion of the call. Joost de Bruijn, Kuros's CEO, will also give a brief corporate update.

This KOL event is restricted to participants outside the U.S., Australia and Japan.

To register for the call, please click here.

Kuros recently announced the treatment of the first patient in a Phase 2 clinical trial with Fibrin-PTH. Fibrin-PTH is the first-ever investigational drug-biologic product candidate being evaluated for spinal fusion and addresses a vast clinical need. Fibrin-PTH promotes controlled and targeted bone formation at the site of implantation and has been demonstrated in relevant animal models of spinal fusion to be comparable to rhBMP-2.

MagnetOs is an advanced bone graft commercialized in the U.S and the UK as an alternative to the gold standard treatment of autograft. Its unique submicron surface topography leads to the formation of bone instead of scar tissue in spinal fusion. MagnetOs has attained an osteoinductive claim in Europe, and its use is supported by a growing body of clinical data.

John Chi, MD, MPH is the Director of Neurosurgical Spinal Cancer in the Department of Neurosurgery and Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School and the coordinating PI of the phase 2 clinical trial with Fibrin-PTH. His clinical practice at Brigham and Women's Hospital is focused on personalizing comprehensive care for patients with spinal disorders and spinal tumors.

Dr. Chi has been at Harvard Medical School since 2008, prior to which he was Clinical Instructor at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Dr. Chi focuses on decompression, spinal fusion, and complex spinal reconstruction and is an expert at performing minimally invasive spine surgery. He holds an MD from Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons and was resident in neurosurgery at the University of California in San Francisco.

Alpesh Patel, MD is the Director of Orthopedic Spine Surgery at Northwestern Medical and a spine surgeon with fellowship training in both orthopedic spine surgery and neurosurgery. Dr. Patel specializes in cervical spine surgery and minimally invasive spine surgery. His experience and research include the areas of cervical spine surgery, cervical myelopathy, herniated discs, minimally invasive surgery, spine trauma and spinal cord injuries. He is also known for his research in cost-effectiveness and value in spine care.

Dr. Patel is also Adjunct Associate Professor of Orthopedics at University of Utah Hospitals and Clinics and was previously at Loyola University Medical Center. He holds MDs from Northwestern, Washington University in St Louis and Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals.

For further information, please contact:

Kuros Biosciences AG LifeSci Advisors Michael Grau Mary-Ann Chang Chief Financial Officer Media & Investors +41 44 733 47 47 +44 7483 284 853 michael.grau@kurosbio.com mchang@lifesciadvisors.com

About Kuros Biosciences AG

Kuros Biosciences is a leader in next generation synthetic bone graft technologies for targeted and controlled bone healing. Kuros's bone graft substitute, MagnetOs, is commercialized in the US and UK for use in posterolateral spinal fusions. Kuros's lead product in development, Fibrin PTH, a drug-biologic combination for spinal interbody fusion, is entering a phase 2 clinical trial in the U.S. Kuros is located in Schlieren (Zurich), Switzerland, Bilthoven, The Netherlands and Burlington (MA), U.S.A. The Company is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the symbol KURN. Visitwww.kurosbio.comfor additional information on Kuros, its people, science and product pipeline.

About Fibrin-PTH (KUR-113)

Fibrin-PTH (KUR-113) consists of a natural fibrin-based healing matrix with an immobilized targeted bone growth factor (truncated human parathyroid hormone (PTH) analog). Fibrin-PTH (KUR-113) is designed to be applied directly into and around an intervertebral body fusion device as a gel, where it polymerizes in situ. Fibrin-PTH (KUR-113) functions via the well-established mechanism of action of parathyroid hormone; has been demonstrated in animal models of spinal fusion to be comparable to rhBMP-2; and has been shown in preclinical studies to be easy to use and ideal for open or minimally invasive techniques. The safety & efficacy of Fibrin PTH (KUR-113) has not yet been evaluated for spinal fusion in humans.

About MagnetOs

US indications statement

MagnetOs is an implant intended to fill bony voids or gaps of the skeletal system, i.e., posterolateral spine. MagnetOs must be used with autograft as a bone graft extender in the posterolateral spine. These osseous defects may be surgically created or the result of traumatic injury to the bone and are not intrinsic to the stability of the bony structure.

EU indications statement

MagnetOs is intended for use as bone void filler for voids and gaps that are not intrinsic to the stability of the bony structure. MagnetOs is indicated for use in the treatment of surgically created osseous defects or osseous defects resulting from traumatic injury to the bone. MagnetOs is intended to be packed into bony voids or gaps of the skeletal system (i.e. extremities, spine, cranial, mandible, maxilla and pelvis) and may be combined with autogenous bone. MagnetOs should not be used to treat large defects that in the surgeon's opinion would fail to heal spontaneously. In load bearing situations, MagnetOs is to be used in conjunction with internal or external fixation devices.

Forward Looking Statements

This media release contains certain forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to be materially different from historical results or from any future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. You are urged to consider statements that include the words "will" or "expect" or the negative of those words or other similar words to be uncertain and forward-looking. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from any future results expressed or implied by any forward-looking statements include scientific, business, economic and financial factors. Against the background of these uncertainties, readers should not rely on forward-looking statements. The Company assumes no responsibility for updating forward-looking statements or adapting them to future events or developments.

THIS DOCUMENT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER OR INVITATION TO SUBSCRIBE FOR OR PURCHASE ANY SECURITIES. IT IS NOT BEING ISSUED IN COUNTRIES WHERE THE PUBLIC DISSEMINATION OF THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN MAY BE RESTRICTED OR PROHIBITED BY LAW. IN PARTICULAR, THIS PRESS RELEASE IS NOT BEING ISSUED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. THIS DOCUMENT SHOULD IN PARTICULAR NOT BE DISTRIBUTED TO THE US-ADDRESSES OF UNITED STATES PERSONS OR TO PUBLICATIONS WITH A GENERAL CIRCULATION IN THE UNITED STATES. EVERY CONTRAVENTION OF THESE RESTRICTIONS MAY CONSTITUTE A BREACH OF THE RESPECTIVE SECURITIES LAWS OF THE COUNTRIES MENTIONED ABOVE.
The Shiv Sena on Thursday said that the Special CBI courts verdict to acquit all 32 accused in the Babri Masjid demolition case should be welcomed by all in the interest of the country. However, leaders like Asaduddin Owaisi are trying to create a rift between the Hindu and Muslim communities, it added.

Despite the Supreme Courts verdict going in favour of Ram Mandir in November last year and the temple construction commencing at Ayodhya, the Babri case continued. The formality has now come to an end after the verdict of special court, the Sena said in an editorial in the party mouthpiece Saamana on Thursday.

A special CBI court on Wednesday acquitted all 32 accused in the Babir Masjid demolition case saying that the demolition was not pre-planned and was the handiwork of unruly elements among the kar sevaks. The decision came as a relief to senior BJP leaders Lal Krishna Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi and Uma Bharti.

The history took place on December 6, 1992 in Ayodhya, where 1.5 lakh Karsevaks had assembled. But they had not gathered only to make Bhajans. They did what they had come for. Because Ayodhya is the birth place of Shri Ram, who is worshipped by all Hindus, said the editorial.

The Shiv Sena claimed that the Muslims in the country also do not oppose the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. But, leaders like Owaisi are still trying to create a rift in Hindu and Muslim communities.

The Ram Mandir bhoomi pujan happened only because of the demolition of Babri masjid. Hence the decision to close down Babri case should be welcomed by all without making much noise and instigating others, it added.

The Uddhav Thackeray-led party said that the case should have been dismissed long before. In November 2019, the Supreme Court too said that the masjid was built by demolishing the temple. The Babri case should have been dismissed then only.

Later according to SC verdict, the Ram Janmabhoomi was handed over to Hindus for the construction of a Mandir. Prime Minister Narendra Modi did its bhoomi pujan and the construction has also begun in Ayodhya. The case could have been dismissed that time also, but it continued, it said.
Smoke from the Glass fire is visible from along Highway 128 in Calistoga on Wednesday. (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times)

Dangerously dry and windy conditions will challenge crews battling the Glass fire in California's wine country over the coming days, as officials warn that gusts could potentially push the blaze toward communities in Napa County.

The ominous forecast comes as the nearly 59,000-acre blaze remains largely uncontrolled. Officials on Thursday reported that the fire, burning in Napa and Sonoma counties, was 5% contained  up a bit overnight, but still too low for comfort.

"Our concerns are coming up here in the next 48 hours as that wind starts to shift around from the south and west, coming around to the northwest, and starts to push this fire back in toward the community of Angwin and over toward Pope Valley," fire behavior analyst Brian Newman said Wednesday night. "So we're trying to look at what it's going to do and what kind of heads-up we need to give our operations folks."

Angwin, in the northern Napa Valley, is home to a number of wineries, the liberal arts Pacific Union College and a small airfield. The town is currently under a mandatory evacuation order.

"Fire is impinging upon the outskirts of that community," Mark Brunton, battalion chief with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, said during a briefing Thursday afternoon. "We have structure defense actively engaged in that area."

Officials issued a new evacuation order covering all areas of Napa County north of the Calistoga city limits between Highway 128, the Sonoma County line and Highway 29. The order also covers all addresses on both sides of Highway 29 between the Calistoga city limits and the Lake County line, as well as all addresses on Old Lawley Toll Road.

After a midweek reprieve, the National Weather Service issued red flag warnings starting Thursday afternoon for the San Francisco Bay Areas hills, as well as portions of Lake, Mendocino and Monterey counties. They are expected to last through Saturday morning.

Story continues

Red flag warnings are issued when meteorologists say theres high confidence of dangerous fire weather.

"What that means is the fire now has more energy behind it with the weather to actually get more active and become more difficult to control," said Tom Bird, incident meteorologist for the Glass fire.

Winds could gust up to 30 mph Thursday afternoon, and the air is expected to remain considerably dry through Friday morning.

Even worse, temperatures were expected to again spike across Northern California, climbing as much as 25 degrees above average for this time of year.

Santa Rosa is expected to see a high of 104 degrees Thursday.

Billy See, a Cal Fire incident commander, said, Were looking at a very similar wind event as when this fire first started moving out" after igniting early Sunday.

Mother Nature is something that we dont try to guess, so were preparing for the worst-case scenario and were hoping for the best, he said during a briefing Wednesday.

The adverse weather comes as crews continue trying to hem in the blaze, which has destroyed 153 homes in Napa County and 67 in Sonoma County.

The fire is threatening another 28,800 structures, officials said Thursday. Its cause remains under investigation.

"Its a scene thats all so very familiar with people in the Napa and Sonoma regions that have been torn asunder by wildfires seemingly every single year  this drumbeat where people are exhausted, concerned, anxious about their fate and their future, not just their safety," Gov. Gavin Newsom said Thursday as he surveyed fire damage.

One major concern when winds whip up is that gusts can carry embers outside an existing burn area and spark new spot fires.

"In these conditions, these hot, dry conditions with these winds, the vast majority of those embers actually will ignite fires," Newsom said. "Its not the exception, its almost the rule. And thats why its absolutely incumbent upon people to take these mandatory and recommended evacuations very, very seriously."

Newsom said the approach to addressing wildfires has to be multipronged and address both near-term needs  such as proactive forest and vegetation management and earmarking resources and assets for suppression efforts  as well as the long-term impacts and challenges of climate change.

"Were seeing hots getting much hotter, the dries getting much drier," he said. "Were seeing what traditionally have been smaller, containable fires become unprecedented megafires."

The Glass fire is one of roughly two dozen such major wildfires burning throughout California.

Another is the Zogg fire, which has scorched more than 55,000 acres in Shasta County, southwest of Redding.

Officials made substantial progress on that fire overnight, increasing containment to 39% as of Thursday evening.

Yet the blaze has still taken a severe toll: Four people have died and 153 structures have been destroyed.

On Thursday, Shasta County identified two of the victims. Sheriff's Lt. Logan Stonehouse, the countys chief deputy coroner, said the body of Karin King, 79, was discovered about 7 a.m. Monday on Zogg Mine Road in Igo.

Kenneth Vossen, 52, of Igo died Tuesday at UC Davis Medical Center in Sacramento, where he was being treated for injuries suffered in the fire.

Two others found in the fire zone haven't been positively identified yet, Stonehouse said, adding that the cases are still under investigation. He declined to reveal more details about the circumstances of the deaths.

Our staff would like to send our deepest condolences to the victims and families affected by this tragic incident, he said.

Incident Commander Sean Kavanaugh said he hopes it will soon be safe enough to allow residents who have been evacuated from the area to return home.

"What I do not want to do is to have an evacuation ... put people back in, and then have to re-evacuate," he said during a briefing Thursday.

More than 96,000 Californians are still away from their homes because of fire, according to state figures.

That's just one of the sobering statistics that's emerged from this year's historic firestorm. Statewide, more than 8,100 wildfires have ignited this year and, together, they've burned close to 4 million acres, according to Cal Fire.

"Its likely that, over the next day or two, we will crest the 4-million-acre mark," Cal Fire director Thom Porter said Thursday. "The biggest year before this year: 1.54 million. We are dwarfing that previous record, and we have a lot of season left to go."

Thirty people have perished in wildfires, and flames have consumed more than 7,500 structures.

"This is a very extreme fire year for all of us," said Jeremy Rahn, a public information officer for the Zogg fire.

Given the enormity and extent of this year's fire season, "clearly, we have our work cut out for us to deal with not only suppression, but prevention strategies," Newsom said.

Weather conditions like those forecast for the coming days raise concerns even for older blazes.

The six-week-old Dolan fire burning in the Big Sur area of Monterey County is 87% contained, but, like with the Glass fire, theres worry that wind gusts of up to 30 mph could worsen it.

And as always, where there's smoke, there's worsening air quality. The air reached unhealthy levels in some parts of the San Francisco Bay Area on Thursday, as well as across swaths of the Central Valley and Northern California.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
With tensions between China and Taiwan rapidly increasing, the tone of China's official media has also become progressively more strident, observes former senior RA&W officer and China expert Jayadeva Ranade.

IMAGE: Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist party of China arrives for the meeting to commend role models in China's fight against at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, September 8, 2020. Photograph: Carlos Garcia Rawlins/Reuters

Large sustained doses of nationalism in the State-owned media when other news sources are blanked out invariably incite popular sentiments.

When sovereignty or territorial issues are involved this quickly transforms into 'militant nationalism' as evident in today's China.

With tensions between China and Taiwan rapidly increasing, the tone of China's official media has also become progressively more strident.

So have the comments by Chinese commentators and official spokesmen, which include intemperate threats to decapitate the Taiwanese leadership.

Chinese observers in Beijing speculate that China is keeping options open for a sudden military offensive against Taiwan, but that seems unlikely in view of Chinese President Xi Jinping's instructions to the People's Liberation Army to be very careful and not fire the first shot as they assess that the US forces are waiting for just such an excuse.

Hu Xijin, the 'hawkish' editor-in-chief of the Chinese Communist party-owned Global Times, has kept the pressure on Taiwan.

He publicised on his Weibo account on September 21 that the 'whole mainland society has lost patience with the Taipei authorities' and they generally believe that 'Taiwan independence" forces 'need to be taught a fundamental lesson'.

Hu separately hinted that while the situation with India is militarily tense, China could easily switch forces to launch an offensive against Taiwan.

China's military forces, he said, can carry out devastating strikes and push the settlement of the Taiwan issue to a new stage.

Hu claimed the recent exercise had shown the PLA's ability to mobilise and organise military operations against Taiwan in a very short period of time.

He warned 'It is described as an exercise, but it is more like actual combat'.

Hu cautioned 'Tsai Ing-wen authorities to rein in the precipice, otherwise they will fall into the abyss and be crushed'.

This rise in militant-nationalist sentiments is matched by the uptick in the PLA's military activity around Taiwan and in the Taiwan Strait.

For example, on two consecutive days on September 18 and 19, PLA air force aircraft overflew the Taiwan Strait in unprecedented numbers and crossed the Median Line which both sides had till now informally accepted as a boundary.

Eighteen PLAAF aircraft comprising two H-6 bombers, eight J-16 fighter jets, four J-11 and four J-10 planes flew near Taiwan's airspace on September 18 and some of them crossed the 'middle line' of the Taiwan Straits.

Senior Colonel Ren Guoqiang, spokesperson of China's ministry of national defense, said (September 18), 'the PLA Eastern Theater Command is conducting real combat-oriented exercises near Taiwan Straits'.

The following day, another 18 PLAAF aircraft and one of the PLA navy repeated the exercise.

This time, there were twelve J-16, two J-10s, two J-11s, two H-6s and one Y-8 anti-submarine warfare aircraft.

On September 18, a PLAAF pilot appeared to elevate the level of intimidation when he told the pilot of a Taiwan air force interceptor that 'there is no median line in the Taiwan Strait.'

Doubts whether Beijing was changing the status quo were dispelled when the Chinese foreign ministry spokesman formally announced at the weekly press conference in Beijing on September 21 that 'there is no so-called center line in the Taiwan Strait'.

Flights by PLAAF aircraft through the Taiwan Strait and crossing the median line could henceforth become a regular feature.

Coinciding with PLAAF flights over the Taiwan Strait, the PLAAF on September 19 released a two minute and 15 second video titled The god of war H-6K goes on the attack!, which went viral.

It depicted two nuclear-capable H-6 bombers carrying out a simulated attack on what appears to be the Andersen Air Force Base on the U.S. Pacific island of Guam, though it is not named.

Halfway through the video, a pilot presses a button and fires a missile which homes in on the unnamed seaside runway, the satellite image of which observers say resembles the layout of the Andersen Air Force Base.

IMAGE: Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen arrives to pay respects to the deceased during an event to mark the 62nd anniversary of the Second Taiwan Strait crisis in Kinmen, Taiwan, August 23, 2020. Photograph: Ann Wang/Reuters

As the video spread across the world, the Global Times published an article conciliatory in tone and apparently intended to assuage the US by Chinese military expert Wei Dongxu on September 22.

Wei Dongxu explained 'The video is merely an exhibition of China's counterbalance capabilities. It doesn't mean it is targeting certain troops. Nor will it initiate an attack against a certain position, or specifically deter a certain country.'

He added that 'from the information released by the PLA, we can see it hasn't explicitly or apparently pointed to a certain country or target. China's military operations are defensive in nature. It only pursues defensive counterattack strategies. If China is not provoked or threatened, it will not engage in direct counterattack like what is that showed in the video.'

At the same time, the article struck a defiant note and cautioned that 'if the US military sends bombers from its Pacific bases to deter China and bring direct threats, the PLA's H-6K bombers are indeed capable of launching effective counterattacks against these bases, frontier deployments, and forward bases.'

It added 'if anyone greatly endangers China's national defense security and strategic security, or even takes direct actions against the country it, then its countermoves will definitely be extraordinarily fast - And in rapid real time.'

Interestingly, this article has not been published in the Chinese version of the newspaper!

Jayadeva Ranade, former Additional Secretary, Cabinet Secretariat, Government of India, is the President, Centre for China Analysis and Strategy.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/ Rediff.com
BELIZE CITY, Belize, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the country of Belize officially reopened the Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE) welcoming inbound leisure travel for international visitors, with approved hotels and tour operators only. The decision to reopen the international airport, which was closed due to COVID-19 restrictions in late-March, as well as launch Phase 3 of the destination's five-phased Travel Reopening Plan, was made in conjunction with the Prime Minister of Belize, the Rt. Hon. Dean O. Barrow.

Travelers looking to visit Belize in 2020-2021 can choose from a new schedule of year-round, non-stop flights offered by American Airlines, United Airlines and Delta Airlines. Beginning Oct. 1, Belize will welcome non-stop flights from Miami (via American Airlines) and Houston (via United Airlines). Similarly, longtime BZE partner Delta Airlines will resume airlift on Nov. 20 with non-stop service from Atlanta. The restoration of direct-flight service enables visitors to get to Belize in approximately three hours or less and is a major milestone in the country's phased reopening.

In this initial phase of reopening for international visitation, Belize's Safe Corridor will include hotels, restaurants and tour operators that have achieved the destination's "Tourism Gold Standard" Recognition. This 9-point program seeks to enhance the tourism industry's health and safety standards by adapting new behaviors and procedures to ensure both employees and travelers are confident in the cleanliness and safety of Belize's tourism product. Businesses that meet the requirements of the Tourism Gold Standard Program are certified and promoted as having implemented these enhanced measures with a Gold Standard Seal of Approval. This seal certifies industry stakeholders who've embraced the safety protocols, and will be visible for all guests where practical, such as tour operator vehicles and vessels, hotel lobbies, primary doors of entry, etc.

"We're confident the Tourism Gold Standard Recognition Program and Gold Standard Seal of Approval will allow travelers and the tourism industry to operate safely as COVID-19 restrictions are eased," said BTB Director of Tourism, Karen Bevans. "While visitors will need to adhere to our "new normal" entry requirements and safety protocols, their experience will remain authentic to Belize's adventurous spirit."

GOLD STANDARD CERTIFIED HOTELS

As the Belize Tourism Board continues to process applications, inspect and approve new properties, visitors are advised to visit https://belizetourismboard.org/industry-sectors/gold-standard-approved/ for approved properties. It's recommended travelers visit the site often for updates, as new properties are added daily. Hotels approved to open within the safe corridor:

Have achieved the Tourism Gold Standard Recognition Program and received approval to reopen

Are able to provide full service to guests. This means that these properties are able to provide all amenities, including round-trip transport service from the airport, access to a restaurant on property, a pool and/or beachfront, offer onsite activities and provide isolated tours.

In addition to the above, these properties will also implement:

Social distancing and the use of facemasks while in public spaces



Online check-in/out, contactless payment systems, and automated ordering/booking



Hand sanitizing stations across the property



Enhanced room cleaning and increased sanitation of public spaces and high-touch surfaces



Daily health checks for guests and employees



Designated 'isolation/quarantine rooms' for suspected COVID-19 cases and action plans

GOLD STANDARD CERTIFIED TOUR OPERATORS

As with Gold Standard hotels, visitors are advised to review the current list of approved operators at https://belizetourismboard.org/industry-sectors/tourism-gold-standard-tour-operators/. It's recommended travelers visit the site often for updates, as new operators are added daily. Gold Standard operators:

Have a "Gold Standard Program Manager" who implements protocols and ensures compliance

Conduct non-invasive temperature checks when picking up guests

Ensure social distancing protocols for workers and visitors during tours

Provide enhanced cleaning and sanitation procedures of tour equipment

Have a response plan should there be any suspected cases and training plan for employees to ensure preparedness to manage new protocols

Travelers are required to follow new arrival and departure processes to enter and leave the country, all of which are available on https://www.travelbelize.org/health-safety. As the situation continues to remain fluid, these protocols are subject to change. For questions or concerns, contact the Belize Tourism Board at [email protected].

About Belize Tourism Board

The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) is a statutory body within the Belize Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation, and it is governed by a Board of Directors appointed by the Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation. The BTB works in conjunction with members of the private sector  including the Belize Hotel Association, Belize Tourism Industry Association and Belize National Tour Operators Association  and is dedicated to building tourism in the most economically and environmentally sustainable manner. As a part of its responsibilities, the BTB promotes Belize as a premier tourism destination to both in-country and international consumers. Among its outreach to the international travel market, the BTB markets the country's unique attractions to travelers, members of the travel trade industry and media outlets in key markets. The BTB is also dedicated to developing and implementing tourism programs that will help strengthen and grow the Belizean tourism industry; promote good destination stewardship; and instill high quality standards for accommodations and travel experiences. For more information on the BTB and its services, visit www.travelbelize.org.

SOURCE Belize Tourism Board

Related Links

http://www.travelbelize.org


IF it didn't sound right to you, lets meet up at the Kokompe Junction. I'll be more than glad to shine light on it and let it sound as clear as a bell .But I think the voice behind those profound words couldn't state it better. By the way, I'm not allergic to negotiation.

I do it like the way I take flu shots. But I do so with circumspection. I won't do it if it will become an albatross in future and not be beneficial to me.

Mind you negotiation is about compromise-- not setting up barriers that need defending if you don't want to compromise.

So, would you negotiate with a group of disgruntled and power-thirsty individuals who seek to perpetuate an act of illegality and vandalism?

I bet you wouldn't. Don't forget they barricaded roads. They besieged police stations.They held hostage uniformed police officers. They allegedly broke into armory and bolted away with a number of AK47 rifles .

And I think they got emboldened when they heard calls from some security experts that government must negotiate with them.

What did they do?

On Monday 28 September they extended their carnage to Ho-- the Volta Regional capital and set ablaze some State Transport Corporation (STC) buses.

Would you set your own house on fire if you value it?

Who does that? You've got to be an anarchist.

So, for those of you who are asking government to negotiate with the Western Togoland secessionist group. Think about it. But beside that here's a piece of advice:

" Let us never negotiate out of fear. But let us never fear to negotiate. We cannot negotiate with people who say what's mine is mine and whats yours is negotiable." US president John F. Kennedy .

Wasn't Bawumia right ?

Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has stated unambiguously that government isn't interested in any negotiations with the Western Togoland secessionist group.

"These criminals....on what basis? It doesnt make sense. If so then well be open to many things tomorrow youll go somewhere and some group will get up and say the northern territory has to also be somewhere else. What we need is intelligence and well try to deal with this," says

Vice President Bawumia.

His comments followed a statement by a retired military officer who'd urged government to negotiate with the group.

Colonel Festus Aboagye (Rtd) who's also a security analyst believes an engagement between the two entities is critical in preventing the seeming growth of lawlessness perpetrated in the Volta Region over the past week, from escalating.

However, in an interview on Asempa-- an Accra based radio station on Wednesday, Dr. Bawumia said it would be 'senseless' on the part of the government to engage the separatists.

Negotiate with who, these criminalson what basis? It doesnt make sense. If so then well be open to many things, tomorrow youll go somewhere and some group will get up and say the northern territory has to also be somewhere else. What we need is intelligence and well try to deal with this.

Wave of condemnations

I doff off my hat to the good people of Ghana, civil society groups, members of the opposition, journalists, political analysts, security experts, and more especially the eminent chiefs of the Volta Region who have unequivocally condemned the shameful atcs.

Since Friday 25 September, almost every reputable institutions and illustrious sons and daughters in the region and across Ghana had condemned the notorious acst of the group.

How did they do it?

The National House of Chiefs, headed by Togbe Afede, the Agbomefia of the Asogli State in the Volta Region issued a powerful statement.

He told journalists: The allegations of road blockage and closures, attempts at causing distractions to state property, kidnapping. These are the kind of things that I have not recollected ever happening in our country.

The Honourable Minister of National Security talked to me this morning about it and then I also made the efforts to contact some chiefs from the Volta Region about a response from the Volta Regional House of Chiefs."

Next was Togbega Tsedze Atakora VII, Paramount Chief, and overlord of Alavanyo Traditional Council.

On Saturday, he too issued a statement distancing his communities from the actions of the group.

It has come to our attention recently that some elements or secessionist group in Ghana who are affiliated to the Western Togoland Movement wants to drag our name into their agenda."

"I want to make it crystal clear that Alavanyo and its people have nothing doing with the Western Togoland Session group and wish to warn those who are involved in that ploy never to use the name and territory of Alavanyo to launch their project," he noted.

The chiefs and people did not only distance themselves from the group but also described their actions as illegal and undemocratic.

The sessionists claimed Hohoe belongs to them right?

This is what Tobge Adzimah V had to say:

We wish to state unequivocally that we, the chiefs and people of Gbi-Hohoe dissociate ourselves from this Group and condemn in no uncertain terms their activities. We do not condone this act of illegality and vandalism perpetuated by the Group, Togbe Adzimah V, Divisional Chief of Gbi-Abansi in the Hohoe Municipality said.

The activities of this Group are becoming a threat to us in the region and for that matter, Gbi-Hohoe following their Friday, September 25, dawn blockade of segments of the Juapong-Asikuma road and other roads in the region. And the attack at the Aveyime Police Station and hoisting of their supposed flags in certain parts of the Eastern and Volta Regions. How can a Study Group create or declare independence in a democratic country? This is unacceptable.

And it didn't end there on Sunday 27 September another powerful chief issued a statement.

The Awoamefia of Anlo State, Togbui Sri III urged the security agencies to find the culprits and let them face the full rigours of the law.

I wish to state categorically that the Anlo State, its chiefs and people does not associate nor approve of the actions of such people and firmly dissociate itself from their subversive actions.

We hoped the Authorities will deal with those involved in such heinous crimes according to the laws of Ghana without fear or favour, the Awoamefia said.

Also the chiefs and people of Gbi-Hohoe have dissociated themselves and condemned the activities of the secessionist group calling itself the "Homeland Study Group Foundation," seeking independence for Volta Region.

Togbe Adzimah V, Divisional Chief of Gbi-Abansi in the Hohoe Municipality told the media in Hohoe that the chiefs, elders and the entire citizenry of Gbi-Hohoe detested the act of the illegality and vandalism being perpetuated by the Group.

We wish to state unequivocally that we, the chiefs and people of Gbi-Hohoe dissociate ourselves from this Group and condemn in no uncertain terms their activities. We do not condone this act of illegality and vandalism perpetuated by the Group, he stressed.

He said the activities of the secessionist group, Homeland Study Group Foundation was becoming an albatross on the peace loving people of the region.

The activities of this Group are becoming a threat to us in the Region and for that matter, Gbi-Hohoe following their Friday, September 25, dawn blockade of segments of the Juapong-Asikuma road and other roads in the region.

And the attack at the Aveyime Police Station and hoisting of their supposed flags in certain parts of the Eastern and Volta Regions. How can a Study Group create or declare independence in a democratic country? This is unacceptable.

Togbe Adzimah said "we the chiefs and people of Gbi Hohoe have followed with keen interest the activities of the Group seeking to declare the sovereign Volta Region and part of Ghana as Western Togoland."

The traditional ruler said Voltarians and Ghanaians owe allegiance to no foreign power than the Government of Ghana.

The Plebiscite of 1956 had settled any conceived mind and we; our citizenry and friendly settlers are not in any position to change the history of Ghana knowing very well Gbi-Hohoe had been placed on the map of Ghana.

Maybe you don't want to call it as it is. Maybe you like to whitewash a tomb.But how good would it serve us as a nation if we allow this lawlessness to linger?

Wouldn't we lose this sense of liberty, this sense of unity, this sense of freedom and this sense of pride?

And I think Tobge Adzimah V summed it up beautifully.

"It's unfortunate and unacceptable for a group of people with their selfish agenda to destabilise the peace and harmony prevailing in Gbi-Hohoe, the Region and Ghana at this crucial moment of going to the polls with the world looking up to the country as epicentre of democratic governance in Africa.

So whether you're a Dagomba, Kokomba or Nanumba or Bono you're a Ghanaian.Whether you're a Ga, or Krobo, Fante, Nzema or Ahanta you're a Ghanaian. And whether you're an Akyem, Ewe, Hausa or Asante you're a Ghanaian.

Long live our united and beautiful Ghana.

By Gordon Offin-Amaniampong
A strong India is an effective counterweight of the Chinese Communist Party's desire for dominance in Southeast Asia and critical to prevent its global expansion, an influential US Congressman said on Thursday.

India, the world's largest democracy, is under constant threat from the Chinese Communist Party. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has been acting aggressively toward India in recent years and infringing on Indian territory, Congressman Tim Burchett said on the floor of the US House of Representatives.

India is an effective counterweight of the CCP's desire for dominance in Southeast Asia, he said.

Madam Speaker, a strong India is critical to preventing expansion of the China Communist Party's global influence, he told his Congressional colleague.

I'm proud to stand on the floor of the House of Representatives today with a strong, clear message for our friends in India. The United States supports you in your struggle against Chinese aggressors, Burchett said.

Together our two democratic free nations will stand against the communism that only seeks to rob citizens of their individuality and beliefs, said the Republican lawmaker from Tennessee.

Underscoring the importance of America's relationship with India, he said that it is in the best interest of the US to build and maintain strong partnerships with its allies across the globe.

Burchett's comments came as India and China are locked in a nearly five-month-long border standoff in eastern Ladakh.
A federal appeals refused Wednesday to allow the Trump administration to shut down the 2020 census a month ahead of schedule, saying the speedup would reduce public confidence in an accurate population count that is crucial to congressional representation and federal funding.

Over the dissent of a judge appointed by President Trump, the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco voted 2-1 to leave intact last weeks order by U.S. District Judge Lucy Koh of San Jose requiring the census count to continue.

The once-per-decade census determines each states number of seats in the House of Representatives and is used by federal officials to apportion $1.5 trillion in funds per year.

In response to disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic, the Census Bureau said in April that census-taking would continue until Oct. 31 to make sure all residents were contacted and counted. But on Aug. 3, the Commerce Department, which oversees the bureau, announced that the counting would end a month earlier so that the results could be delivered to Trump by Dec. 31, a deadline set by law.

Although the department declared that the earlier shutdown would not affect census accuracy, Koh said Census Bureau officials had acknowledged in written memos that the speedup would make the count less accurate and still would not produce results that could be forwarded to the president by Dec. 31. Legislation to extend that deadline has passed the House and is pending in the Senate.

After Koh issued an injunction Thursday night against the planned shutdown, Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross announced Monday that the census count would end Oct. 5. Koh, according to published reports, said Tuesday that Ross decision appears to violate her injunction. She has scheduled a hearing Friday on whether to hold the government in contempt of court.

The administration immediately asked the appeals court for a stay that would allow Ross to carry out his plan. But the court majority said Wednesday the administration had not justified a quick shutdown.

Despite evidence that the count was far from complete, in early September the bureau had already begun winding down its field operations and terminating census field workers, Judges Johnnie Rawlinson and Morgan Christen wrote. If Kohs order is suspended, they said, thousands of census workers currently performing field work will be terminated, and restarting these field operations and data collection efforts, which took years of planning and hiring efforts to put in place, would be difficult if not impossible.

The Commerce Departments hasty and unexplained changes in schedule risk undermining the bureaus mission to produce a census in which the public can have confidence, the judges said.

Rawlinson was appointed by President Bill Clinton, and Christen by President Barack Obama. In dissent, Judge Patrick Bumatay, a Trump appointee, said Ross decision should not be subject to judicial second-guessing.

It is for the secretary, under the authority Congress delegated to him, to balance the need for accuracy against the statutes hard deadline to deliver census results by Dec. 31, Bumatay said. There is no basis for the judiciary to inject itself into this sensitive political controversy.

Bob Egelko is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @BobEgelko
After days of criticism over delays, the Canadian government has finally approved rapid test kits for the coronavirus disease.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said the first batch of the kits made by an American manufacturer will arrive in the country in the coming weeks, as Health Canada gave its approval for the devices a day after public services and procurement minister Anita Anand announced that 7.9 million units had been bought.

These decisions come even as some Canadian provinces, including two of the largest, Ontario and Quebec, witnessed record highs in new Covid-19 cases as the second wave sets in.

Confirmed cases in the country have surpassed 158,400 as authorities have warned of community transmission of the deadly virus. The daily increase in infections has been 1,672, a rise of nearly 90% over that recorded a fortnight earlier.

However, there have been far fewer fatalities when compared to the conditions prevailing in March and April, with only six confirmed to have died on Wednesday.

The situation in the two provinces worst-hit by the pandemic, Ontario and Quebec, is grim. Francois Legault, Quebec premier, described it as critical as he announced a red alert level for three regions, including the provinces two largest municipalities, Montreal and Quebec City.

Coming into effect on Thursday, many establishments that were allowed to reopen, including bars, restaurants and cinemas, will be forced to close down for a month.

Ontario, meanwhile, recorded its highest single-day increase in new coronavirus cases on Monday, at 700, as part of a trend of numbers rising steeply over the last week.

The surge in numbers has impacted public health infrastructure, particularly in relation to testing, as people queued up for hours for Covid-19 tests with results taking days to become available.

Under pressure, the Trudeau government announced the procurement of molecular devices from Abbott Laboratories on Tuesday. Results are expected to be delivered within minutes after a swab specimen is taken from the throat or nose.

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Islamabad High Court has fixed the hearing of the case related to the appointment of defence counsel for Kulbhushan Jadhav on October 6. The hearing will be held by a larger bench comprising Chief Justice Athar Minallah.

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has fixed the hearing of the case related to the appointment of defence counsel for Kulbhushan Jadhav on October 6, ARY News reported. The hearing will be held by a larger bench of the high court comprising Chief Justice Athar Minallah, Justice Amir Farooq, and Justice Mian Gull Hassan Aurangzeb. This comes after Pakistan Foreign Office Spokesperson had earlier rejected Indias demand for an Indian lawyer or a Queens counsel.

In September, the Islamabad High Court in Pakistan had directed the federal government to give India another chance to appoint a lawyer to represent Jadhav and adjourned hearing for a month. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava had said that Pakistan has not been able to fulfil its obligations on implementation of ICJ judgment in the Kulbhushan Jadhav case and has not yet addressed core issues including provision of all documents and unimpeded access.

He said that Pakistan has also not addressed the appointment of an Indian lawyer or a Queens counsel to ensure a free and fair trial for Jadhav. The Government of Pakistan has not been able to fulfil its obligations on implementation of the ICJ judgment in letter and spirit. It has not yet addressed the core issues, which includes the provision of all documents related to the case, providing unconditional and unimpeded consular access to Kulbhusan Jadhav and appointment of an Indian lawyer or a Queens counsel to ensure a free and fair trial, Srivastava had said at a press briefing.

Also Read: Hathras Horror: Forensic report shows the victim wasnt raped, says UP Police

Also Read: Rahul, Amarinder to hold three-day tractor rally across Punjab against farm laws

India said Pakistan should provide for an unimpeded, unhindered and unconditional consular access and that the meeting of Indian officials with Jadhav should take place in an atmosphere free from fear of retribution.

India also said that any conversation between Jadhav and High Commission officials must necessarily take place in privacy and without the presence of any Pakistani official or recording by Pakistan.

Pakistan claims that Jadhav was arrested from Balochistan in 2016 on charges of espionage. India has rejected Pakistans allegations and said he was kidnapped from the Iranian port of Chabahar. In early 2017, a Pakistani military court sentenced him to death. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) had upheld Indias claim that Pakistan has committed an egregious violation of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations on several counts.
U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo speaks during a news conference at the U.S. State Department in Washington on Sept. 21, 2020. (Patrick Semansky/Pool via REUTERS)

US Imposes Sanctions on Raul Castros Son-in-Law

WASHINGTONThe Trump administration announced it was adding the son-in-law of retired Cuban leader Raul Castro to its sanctions list for specially designated nationals and blocked persons.

The departments of State and Treasury said Wednesday that Luis Alberto Rodriguez Lopez-Calleja, the husband of Castros daughter, Deborah, was helping to fund human rights abuses and working in concert with Venezuela to suppress Cubans freedoms using revenue generated from the Cuban militarys financial arm: the Grupo de Administracion Empresarial S.A. (GAESA).

Lopez-Calleja is the head of GAESA, which controls state-owned businesses including hotels, factories, stores, and an airline. The move freezes any assets he may have in U.S. jurisdictions and bars Americans from doing business with him.

The revenue generated from the economic activities of GAESA is used to oppress the Cuban people and to fund Cubas parasitic, colonial domination of Venezuela, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement. Todays action demonstrates the United States long-standing commitment to ending economic practices that disproportionately benefit the Cuban government or its military, intelligence, and security agencies or personnel at the expense of the Cuban and Venezuelan people.

The announcement is the administrations latest action against Cuba and comes just two days after it imposed sanctions on a debit card operation that allowed Cubans to buy food, appliances and other items with money sent by relatives in the United States.

President Donald Trump said earlier this week that the sanctions are part of our continuing fight against communist oppression and that they will ensure U.S. dollars do not fund the Cuban regime.

On Monday, Pompeo announced that FINCIMEX, a Cuban state company that processes remittances and issues the American International Services debit card, had been added to the sanctions list. The government began accepting the card for purchases in July amid the coronavirus pandemic that worsened the lack of food on the island and sparked long lines for goods. It became so popular that FINCIMEX temporarily stopped accepting applications in mid-August but resumed them this month.

The administration has been steadily ramping up pressure on both Cuba and Venezuela, which remains in a humanitarian and leadership crisis as Nicolas Maduro refuses to resign.

The United States will continue to support the Cuban people in their desire for a democratic government and respect for human rights, including freedom of religion, expression, and association. Until these rights and freedoms are respected, we will continue to hold the regime accountable, Pompeo said.

By Matthew Lee. The Epoch Times contributed to this report.
SAN FRANCISCO - A Russian man convicted of hacking LinkedIn, Dropbox and Formspring and stealing the personal information of more than 100 million customers was sentenced Wednesday to more than seven years in federal prison.

Yevgeniy Nikulin, 32, received the 88-month sentence Tuesday in federal court in San Francisco.

Prosecutors said that in 2012, Nikulin, working from Moscow, hacked the computers of the San Francisco Bay Area companies, installed malware, stole login credentials for employees and used them to obtain customer data such as usernames and passwords that he offered for sale on a Russian-speaking cybercrime forum.

Nikulin was arrested in Prague in 2016 and extradited to the United States in 2018 after a long extradition battle. His trial began this March but was suspended because the coronavirus pandemic closed the courthouse. The case resumed in July.

After a six-day trial, Nikulin was convicted of selling stolen usernames and passwords; installing malware on protected computers; conspiracy; computer intrusion and aggravated identity theft.
Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban has donated $50,000 each to the families of the two Los Angeles County sheriffs deputies who were wounded in a shooting ambush that was caught on surveillance footage.

The generous gesture by Cuban, the Shark Tank co-host, was announced just a day after prosecutors charged a 36-year-old man in the September 12 shootings of 31-year-old Claudia Apolinar and her 24-year-old male partner.

Cuban told Fox News that the donation was made through his Fallen Patriot Fund, an organization that has raised more than $5million in grant money to help families of US military service members killed or wounded in Iraq.

Mark Cuban, the billionaire owner of the Dallas Mavericks, has donated $50,000 each to the two families of Los Angeles County sheriff's deputies who were shot in an ambush in Compton on September 12. One of the ambushed deputies, Claudia Apolinar, is seen right

The female deputy is seen helping her colleague after the shooting. Deonte Lee Murray, 36, was charged Wednesday over the September 12 attack with two counts each of willful, deliberate and premeditated attempted murder of a peace officer and possession of a firearm by a felon after he allegedly walked up to a police cruiser and shot the two deputies

Meanwhile, authorities on Wednesday announced a breakthrough in the case.

Deonte Lee Murray, 36, was charged Wednesday with two counts each of willful, deliberate and premeditated attempted murder of a peace officer and possession of a firearm by a felon after he allegedly walked up to a police cruiser and shot the two deputies multiple times on September 12.

The two officers were shot multiple times as they sat inside their patrol car outside the Metro Blue Line station at Willowbrook Avenue and Oak Street.

Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex Villanueva and District Attorney Jackie Lacey in a press conference Wednesday morning identified Murray as the suspected gunman and said they believe he acted alone.

Murray, who authorities said 'hates' cops, has been in police custody since September 15 after a huge armed standoff in Lynwood over an alleged carjacking on September 1 where a 51-year-old man was shot in the leg.

Authorities at the time denied his arrest was connected to the ambush of the two cops despite the massive SWAT team presence and several law enforcement sources telling the media it was.

Police confirmed Wednesday the two incidents were related and said a gun discarded by Murray during the September 15 incident was the same one used in the cop shooting.

The vehicle the gunman fled from the ambush in is also allegedly the same black Mercedes Benz stolen in the September 1 carjacking that Murray was arrested for on September 15.

A man, 36, has been charged with attempted murder in the ambush shooting of two Compton police officers earlier this month, two weeks after he was involved in an armed standoff with cops over an alleged carjacking. Video of the ambush on the two cops above

Villanueva announced the gunman's arrest Wednesday and slammed his actions as the 'worst of humanity.'

'We saw the worst of humanity - a cowardly act where a suspect ambushed and shot and attempted to kill two of our deputies,' he said.

'This cowardly ambush was followed by bystanders celebrating and cheering that the deputies had been shot, and that followed at the hospital - the sanctity, the quiet sanctity of the hospital - with protesters cheering and chanting for the deputies to die.'

The sheriff was referring to footage that emerged of bystanders mocking the bloodied officers at the scene and protesting outside the hospital where they were taken for treatment on the day of the attack.

Villanueva added: 'These acts and that day, I will not forget it, and it represents the worst in humanity and it shocked the whole nation. And that evening, I said we will find this man. And I can report today, we have found our suspect.'

Villanueva said the 'worst of humanity' was followed by the 'best of humanity' as law enforcement and the community worked to track down the suspect following the attack.

Murray, a convicted felon who allegedly has ties to multiple gangs, is believed to have acted alone in the attack on the deputies.

The suspect was arrested two weeks ago on September 15 in connection to an armed carjacking in Compton back on September 1 where he allegedly also shot the male driver of the car, 51, in the leg with a rifle.

He faces attempted murder, carjacking, robbery and assault charges in that incident.

He faces a maximum sentence of life in prison if convicted on all charges.

Murray appeared at Compton courthouse later Wednesday for his arraignment where he pleaded not guilty to all charges.

His bail was set at $6.1 million - just shy of the $6.15 million recommended by prosecutors - and he is being held at the Twin Towers Correctional Facility.

Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex Villanueva (pictured) and District Attorney Jackie Lacey in a press conference Wednesday morning identified Murray as the suspected gunman and said they believe he acted alone

His attorney Jack Keenan requested Murray be moved to another facility given 'the nature of the victims in the case', claiming his client was having his food taken from him at the prison.

'He doesn't get fed, his food gets thrown away, he hasn't eaten today,' Keenan told the judge.

Judge Michael J. Shultz denied the request but said he would order deputies to look into the situation.

The suspect's photo is not being released because the investigation is ongoing and its release could impact witness interviews where suspect line ups may be used, authorities said.

Both Murray's attorney, prosecutors and the judge were in agreement that its release 'would compromise the defense, the prosecution or both'.

He is scheduled to appear back in court on November 17.

A felony arrest warrant was issued for Murray after officers sought him in connection to both the carjacking and the shooting of the officers, LA County Sheriff''s Department Captain Kent Wegener said Wednesday.

Wegener said police located Murray on September 15 who then led cops on a high speed police chase in a Toyota, culminating in an armed standoff for eight hours in Lynwood.

Officials said they finally located him in a trash bin behind an apartment with the help of a K-9 unit and he was charged over the carjacking.

The LA County Sheriff's Department - including Villaneuva - insisted at the time that his arrest was not related to the shooting of the two cops.

Murray, who authorities said 'hates' cops, has been in police custody since September 15 after a huge armed standoff in Lynwood (pictured) over an alleged carjacking on September 1 where a 51-year-old man was shot in the leg

The September 15 standoff above. Authorities at the time denied his arrest was connected to the ambush of the two cops despite the massive SWAT team presence and several law enforcement sources telling the media it was

Authorities said Murray's arrest was on suspicion of a carjacking and that there was no known connection between him and the gunman who gunned down the two officers the weekend before despite the massive police presence including helicopters, bomb squads and K-9 units.

'At this time there is no information that would lead us to believe that he is involved in the shooting of our deputies,' a department official said at the time.

Villanueva repeatedly told several media outlets the two incidents were unrelated as the standoff rumbled on for around eight hours and residents were evacuated from the area.

There were conflicting reports from law enforcement sources who told local media while the standoff was underway that it was connected to the cop shooting.

A source told NBC Los Angeles at the time that authorities were increasingly confident the suspected carjacker was connected to the attack on the officers.

Wegener said Wednesday a pistol Murray allegedly discarded during the chase was the same pistol used to shoot the two deputies on September 21.

He said forensics and ballistics connected the gun to Murray and the cop shooting.

The gun was also missing five rounds - the same number fired at the deputies, Wegener said.

The black Mercedes Benz sedan stolen in the September 1 carjacking in Compton was also found close to where Murray was hiding out, he said.

Wegener said the car was also identified as the same vehicle used as a getaway car after the ambush on the cops on September 12, police said.

Wegener defended the department's actions denying any connection between the two incidents saying it would have been 'irresponsible' to confirm a link at the time.

Murray, a Compton resident, has a long rap sheet including drugs charges, terrorist threats and burglary charges.

When asked about the motive for the attack on the cops, Wegener said 'he hates police officers and wants them dead'.

Police confirmed Wednesday the two incidents were related and said a gun discarded by Murray during the September 15 incident was the same one used in the cop shooting. Pictured the scene of the standoff

Authorities also confirmed the vehicle the gunman fled from the ambush in is also allegedly the same black Mercedes Benz stolen in the September 1 carjacking that Murray was arrested for on September 15

SWAT teams search homes in Lynwood for Murray during the standoff

Two cops were gunned down in Compton on September 12 amid escalating tensions between law enforcement and the American public.

Shocking surveillance footage captured the moment the black male suspect strolled up to the police cruiser and shot the officers at close range before fleeing the scene on foot.

Apolinar, a mother to a six-year-old boy, was shot in the jaw in the attack while her partner was shot in the head.

Despite her injuries, Apolinar was able to get her partner to safety, apply a tourniquet to his wounds and radio for help.

A photo of the aftermath of the attack shows Apolinar covered in blood, giving medical help to her injured partner who was also struck in the head.

A harrowing dispatch call reveals a shaky voice called in the shooting, muttering: '998 Compton Pax.'

Recognizing the code for a deputy-involved shooting, a dispatcher asks: 'Just happened?'

The voice replies, almost unintelligibly, 'Compton Pax, deputies down. Compton Pax 998.'

Both officers survived and were taken to hospital in a stable condition while a massive manhunt got underway for the gunman.

Authorities said they were searching for a black male between the ages of 28 and 30 in dark clothing who was last seen in a black four-door sedan.

The 24-year-old male cop, who has not been identified, was discharged from hospital just over a week after the attack.

Four days later, his partner Apolinar was also released from hospital.

Both deputies had both only graduated from the Los Angeles Police Academy last year.

Fox News reporter William la Jeunesse said earlier in the month that 'some believe this ambush was retaliation for some recent police shootings of black suspects in LA.'

On August 31 black man Dijon Kizzee was shot and killed by Los Angeles County sheriff's deputies after he was stopped for a traffic violation while riding a bike.

At the beginning of this month the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors also voted to ask the coroner to conduct an inquest into the fatal deputy shooting of 18-year-old Andres Guardado on June 18.

Thousands have taken to the streets demanding justice and calling for an end to police brutality and racism since May following the 'murder' of black man George Floyd by a Minneapolis cop who knelt on his neck for almost nine minutes until he passed out and died.

Apolinar, 31, is seen right in the hospital writing out answers to President Trump for her co-worker to relay because she cannot speak. She was shot in the head, as was her 24-year-old partner. LA Sheriff's Department shared these photos a week after the shootings, obscuring her face

Apolinar with her husband and Sergeant Frederickson (left) and in bed, writing out replies for Frederickson to relay to President Trump because she cannot speak

Floyd's death reignited outrage over the death of EMT Breonna Taylor, 26, who was shot eight times while sleeping in her bed when three plain clothes officers performed a no-knock arrest warrant at her Louisville apartment on March 13.

In June, unarmed father Rayshard Brooks was shot dead while he ran away from cops in the drive-thru of a Wendy's restaurant in Atlanta.

On August 23, Jacob Blake was shot seven times in the back by a white cop in front of his three young children, leaving the father-of-six paralyzed from the waist down.

In early September, footage was released by the family of Daniel Prude, 41, showing cops in Rochester, New York, putting a spit hood over his face and pushing his face into the ground for two minutes until he passed out and died on March 23.

The Monroe County medical examiner listed the manner of death as homicide caused by 'complications of asphyxia in the setting of physical restraint' but no charges have been brought against any of the cops.
Hong Kong: Food premise inspections enhanced

The Food & Environmental Hygiene Department inspected 17 catering business premises in Lan Kwai Fong yesterday and initiated legal proceedings of prosecution against the operators of seven premises.

The department explained that the legal proceedings are mainly about violating the requirements on the distance between tables and wearing a mask at all times within the premises except when eating and drinking.

According to the latest directions issued by the Secretary for Food & Health, the number of customers at bar or pub must not exceed half of the normal seating capacity of the premises and no more than two people may be seated at one table.

The directions also prohibit live performance and dancing in catering business premises and masks must be worn at all times within the premises except when food or drink is being consumed.

Body temperature screening must be conducted before entry is allowed to the catering premises and hand sanitisers must be provided to the customers.

The department said it will step up inspection at food premises across the city and conduct joint operations with Police in the long holidays to ensure directions under the Prevention & Control of Disease (Requirements & Directions) (Business & Premises) Regulation are strictly observed.

Enforcement actions will be taken against offenders to minimise the risk of transmission of COVID-19, it added.

The department appealed to food business operators and food handlers to comply with the regulation to keep workers, customers and the public safe.

This story has been published on: 2020-10-01. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
2 A student holds a sign that reads, "We are Dima Mazuro." Mazuro made a short but powerful speech in front of his faculty on September 16, saying, "There is no other trouble for the people," referring to the anger over the presidential election results that are seen as fraudulent. On September 25, the authorities ordered that Mazuro be detained for 23 days.
Roberts Funeral Home Bonni Lou Kern

Bonni Lou Kern, one of the original Mouseketeers on The Mickey Mouse Club, has died. She was 79.

The TV star died on Monday in an assisted living facility in Wooster, Ohio, according to her obituary. She was with her beloved cat of 19 years, JoJo.

Born in 1941 In Alhambra, California, Kern rose to fame when she appeared as a Mouseketeer in Disney's The Wonder Mouseketeers!.

At just 14 years old, Kern starred in the inaugural episode  titled "Save Bonni Lour Kern!"  in which her fellow Mouseketeers try to rescue her from a fishing net. She went on to appear on the spinoff film Save the Wonder Mouseketeers!.

During her time with Disney, Kern was presented with the Mousecar Award  the highest honor bestowed by the company  as well as the key to Fantasyland, according to her family.

Roberts Funeral Home Bonni Lou Kern

RELATED: Remembering the Stars We've Lost in 2020

Kern changed her named to Bonni Carr when she married Harold Bud Carr in the late '60s in Hawaii.

In addition to her career at Disney, Kern also was worked at Lowe's for many years, her obituary said.

Kern was preceded in death by her husband Bud and her brother Michael. She is survived by her children Kimberly Ellington, Allyson Struzan and Janet Bucklew, six grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

RELATED: Original Mouseketeer Dennis Day Found Dead in His Home Nearly 1 Year After Mysterious Disappearance

Chasen Hampton, who was a Mouseketeer on the revived The All-New Mickey Mouse Club, honored Kern on his Twitter, writing on Wednesday, "Paying respect this morning to one of our MMC older sisters. #BonniLouKern from the Original 50s #MickeyMouseClub has passed away."

"She was an incredible talent and will be missed greatly by her fans and #Disney family," Hampton added. "#AlwaysInTheClub."

In keeping with Kern's wishes, there will be no funeral service, though her family asks that memorial contributions be made to COPD Foundation in Miami, Florida.
Australians are ditching cramped city apartments for a house in the country as bosses allow more people to work from home.

Since March, Melbourne unit prices have plummeted by 5.5 per cent as Sydney's equivalent median value for apartments has dropped by five per cent.

While property prices have fallen in Australia's biggest cities, the story is very different in 11 regional areas where home prices have reached record highs, a CommSec analysis of CoreLogic data showed.

CoreLogic head of research Tim Lawless said the ability to work from home and live in a house rather than an apartment had boosted regional home prices.

Australians are ditching cramped city apartments for a house in the country as bosses allow more people to work from home. Since March, Sydney's median apartment price has dropped by five per cent. Pictured is the troubled Opal Tower at Sydney Olympic Park

'Remote working arrangements are no doubt a factor in supporting demand in these markets but lifestyle opportunities and a desire for lower density housing options are also playing a part,' he said.

'Anecdotally, we are also observing a transition of demand away from the cities towards the major regional centres, particularly those that are adjacent to the larger capitals where residents can commute back to the cities if required.'

The Richmond-Tweed area of northern New South Wales, a 90-minute drive from Brisbane across the Queensland border, has a median property price of $594,987.

That is marginally more than Melbourne's median apartment price of $558,952 and significantly less than Sydney's mid-point unit value of $743,288, CoreLogic data for September showed.

The Richmond-Tweed area of northern New South Wales has a median property price of $594,987. For little more than $600,000 it is possible to buy a house (view pictured) at Tweed Heads with views of a canal

For little more than $600,000 it is possible to buy a house at Tweed Heads with views of a canal.

Regional markets setting price records Gold Coast, Queensland: $559,808 Richmond-Tweed, northern New South Wales: $594,987 Coffs Harbour-Grafton, NSW Mid-North Coast: $477,089 Lauceston, northern Tasmania: $346,790 Source: CommSec analysis of CoreLogic data showing median property prices for September 2020 Advertisement

The neighbouring Gold Coast's median property price stands at $559,808.

For marginally more than that, a duplex house can be bought for $649,000 at Reedy Creek a short drive from the beach at Burleigh Heads.

Regional house prices are continuing to climb as Sydney and Melbourne struggle.

Sydney's median house price in September fell for the fifth straight month, sinking 0.2 per cent to a still-expensive $983,262.

Melbourne's mid-point house value dived by 0.9 per cent to $780,836 - the sixth consecutive month of decline.

Provincial capital cities, however, are continuing to set price records.

Adelaide's median house price rose 0.8 per cent in September to $486,943 while Hobart's mid-point value for a home with a backyard increased by 0.6 per cent to $519,092.

Canberra's equivalent house price edged up 0.2 per cent to $723,634.

Brisbane's middle house price was up 0.4 per cent to $559,646 as records were set in the city's east and Moreton Bay.

Mr Lawless said that unlike regional centres, Sydney and Melbourne had been more reliant on immigration-driven population growth before the COVID-19 pandemic.

'From a cyclical perspective, regional areas weren't recording the same growth conditions pre-COVID, so home values in these markets are often more affordable and don't have a high base to fall from,' he said.
Reality star, businesswoman, and Kardashian matriarch Kris Jenner, along with her oldest daughter Kourtney Kardashian, have been hit with a harassment lawsuit from a former bodyguard.

The lawsuit includes allegations of several kinds of discrimination and harassment. Although Jenner, with the help of her representatives, denied the claims, they are serious.

Harassment and racism

The news site The Blast broke the news first and reported that one of the ex-bodyguards of the Kardashians filed a lawsuit against Kris Jenner and Kourtney Kardashian for a pattern of unwanted and unwelcome sexual advances and other harassing misconduct.

The filing also includes allegations of a hostile work environment on top of racial and gender discrimination. The site did not name the bodyguard, but it did report that the man identified himself as African American.

The bodyguard started working with the family in May 2017 through a private security company, and he served on security detail for Jenner and Kourtney. The bodyguard said that during his time with the family, he was subjected to both inappropriate comments and contact from Jenner.

Also Read: Leonardo Di Caprio Becoming a Father? Tabloid Claims Girlfriend Camila Morrone is Pregnant

Comments directed at the bodyguard were of overt sexual nature, and Jenner also commented on the bodyguard's physical appearance, sexual activities and suggested that he engage in a romantic and sexual relationship with her.

Additionally, it mentions an instance of Jenner resting her hands on his thighs and groin, rubbing her pelvis against his back, touching his rear with her hands, and exposing parts of her body to him in a lewd or suggestive manner.

According to the lawsuit, the bodyguard told Jenner to stop and brought the issue to his original company's human resources to no avail.

The man said he faced retaliation for his report, and he claims he was the victim of fabricated complaints and a suspension from working with Jenner, though he continued to work with Kourtney.

Racial discrimination was also in the lawsuit, with the filing stating that he was subjected to pervasive and cruel mockery, harassment, belittling and otherwise humiliating mistreatment by defendants due to his race and that he was wrongfully terminated.

The situation ended when he was fired in September 2018, although he filed a claim with the Department of Fair Employment and Housing afterward. He claims that Jenner and Kourtney's team tried to harass and intimidate him into not bringing the incident to the court.

Jenner's response

The Blast received a statement from Jenner's lawyer, which strongly rejects the claims of the lawsuit and threatens legal action against the former bodyguard.

According to the statement, Jenner and Kourtney Kardashian deny the absurd claims as completely fabricated and false fiction. The statement added that the guard never made any complaints to his employer about Jenner until contriving the claim.

Although Kourtney is named in the lawsuit, she is not accused of doing anything improper with the bodyguard. The statement insists that the claims are outrageous and that anyone can sue anyone in America and that there is no recourse when pursuing fictional and meritless claims.

The statement ends by saying that as soon as Kris and Kourtney defeat the ridiculous lawsuit, they intend to immediately sue the bodyguard and his attorneys for malicious prosecution.

Related Article: Mariah Carey Reveals She Was Pimped Out by Older Sister When She Was 12 in New Memoir

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The Crown creator Peter Morgan has claimed the parallels between Princess Diana and Meghan Markle are 'obvious' and 'impossible' not to see.

The British screenwriter claims the upcoming fourth series of the royal Netflix drama, which introduces actress Emma Corrin as the young Lady Diana Spencer, 'shines a lot of lights on where we are now'.

Speaking in an interview with Vanity Fair, Morgan said he was careful not to dwell too much on recent royal headlines, such as Prince Andrew's involvement with billionaire paedophile Jeffrey Epstein and the Sussexes' departure, while creating the latest episodes.

He stressed: 'If you draw too many intentional parallels, it actually becomes quite ugly.'

The Crown creator Peter Morgan has claimed the parallels between Princess Diana and Meghan Markle (pictured) are 'obvious' and 'impossible' not to see

'When you see a beautiful young princess struggling to find love and acceptance within the family, the parallels [between Meghan and Diana, pictured in 1987] are obvious and the parallels write themselves,' Morgan said

He did, however, concede that the parallels between Meghan Markle, 39, and Diana, who died in a car crash aged 36 in August 1997, 'write themselves'.

'When you see a beautiful young princess struggling to find love and acceptance within the family, the parallels are obvious and the parallels write themselves,' Morgan said.

'If you come into [the Royal Family] with any agenda for yourself - or if you come in and connect with the public in a way that threatens to change the way that the royal family connects with the public - that's something that doesn't particularly sit comfortably for either side.

'Really, the only version of events that works is if somebody comes in and becomes invisible, and just sort of knuckles down to a lifetime of agreeable supplicancy to the duties of the crown.

The British screenwriter claims the upcoming fourth series of the royal Netflix drama, which introduces actress Emma Corrin as the young Lady Diana Spencer (pictured), 'shines a lot of lights on where we are now'

'Diana struggled to fit in with the institution in a way that it's impossible not to see the parallels with Meghan Markle and Harry. So the story feels both incredibly vivid historically, but also it really shines a lot of lights on where we are now.'

The Crown Series Four will begin as the 1970s are drawing to a close, with the Royal Family preoccupied with safeguarding the line of succession by securing an appropriate bride for Prince Charles who is still unmarried at 30.

Morgan described Diana as 'an extraordinary character', adding: 'She was very much the British Eva Peron  such a mythic figure, so much bigger than anything we'd been used to.'

In series four, which begins in 1977, viewers will be introduced to Diana, aged 16, before she became a member of the Firm, when she was living with flatmates in London.

The Crown Series Four will begin as the 1970s are drawing to a close, with the Royal Family preoccupied with safeguarding the line of succession by securing an appropriate bride for Prince Charles [played by Josh O'Connor, pictured with Olivia Colman as The Queen] who is still unmarried at 30

They'll then witness the brief courtship between Diana and Prince Charles - after he was unable to wed Camilla Parker Bowles - and the events leading up to the eventual dissolution of their marriage.

Corrin, 24, told how fans will see the People's Princess turn from a 'girl to a woman' before the series culminates in 1990 - when actress Elizabeth Debicki succeeds her in the role.

Morgan also revealed the new series, which premieres November 15, will portray Olivia Colman's Queen Elizabeth II and Gillian Anderson's Margaret Thatcher as 'twins who are not the same'.

He admitted learning the monarch and politician were born just six months apart was 'a breakthrough' for him when writing the fourth season.

The new series of The Crown will portray the Queen and Margaret Thatcher as 'twins who are not the same', it's creator Peter Morgan has revealed (pictured, Stephen Boxer playing Dennis Thatcher with Gillian Anderson's Margaret Thatcher in a scene from the Netflix show)

'They're both very resilient, very committed, work incredibly hard, have an extraordinary sense of duty,' Morgan said. 'They're both really committed to the country.'

There have long been claims about tensions between the Queen and Lady Thatcher during her time in Downing Street, fuelled by suspicions of class tensions.

A book released in 2015, In The Queen And Mrs Thatcher: An Inconvenient Relationship, chronicles how the two women 'met and disliked each other on sight'.

Mr Palmer, a TV producer, wrote: 'For over a decade they quietly waged a war against each other on both a personal and political stage, disagreeing on key issues including sanctions against South Africa, the miners' strike and allowing US planes to bomb Libya using British military bases.'

The Crown's creator has pointed to similarities between the two women, including their duty and strong Christian faith (pictured together in 1979)

However, in later life the two women are said to have formed a stronger bond.

When Lady Thatcher died in April 2013 at the age of 88, the Queen attended her funeral at St Paul's Cathedral.

It was recently announced The Crown will run for six series instead of five. Morgan revealed he decided to 'return to the original plan,' meaning Imelda will now appear for two series as an older Queen Elizabeth II.

Producers decided to a U-turn after their January announcement The Crown would end after its fifth series.

Morgansaid: 'As we started to discuss the storylines for Series 5, it soon became clear that in order to do justice to the richness and complexity of the story we should go back to the original plan and do six seasons.'
Labour leaders are calling on Ottawa to provide immediate financial aid and rapid viral testing to an airline industry devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 1/10/2020 (478 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Unifor President Jerry Dias takes a question from a journalist after announcing a three-year labour agreement with the Ford Motor Company at a news conference in Toronto on Tuesday, September 22, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chris Young

Labour leaders are calling on Ottawa to provide immediate financial aid and rapid viral testing to an airline industry devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The heads of two pilots' unions and Unifor asked the federal government on Thursday to offer carriers loans totalling $7 billion at a one per cent interest rate.

The 10-year credit plan being requested includes loan guarantees and direct financial aid, but no grants and aligns with the support extended by other countries, they said.

The unions also asked Ottawa to back approval and deployment of rapid COVID-19 tests for passengers as a step toward easing travel restrictions and quarantine rules.

The COVID-19 pandemic has created a crisis in Canada's aviation industry unlike anything seen before, and recovery may be years away," Tim Perry, head of the Air Line Pilots Association's Canadian branch, said at a news conference in Toronto.

"Make no mistake, decimating this industry today will impede the recovery for Canadians tomorrow and beyond," said Robert Giguere, head of the Air Canada Pilots Association.

Labour groups differed on the best approach to a bailout.

The Canadian Union of Public Employees, which was not a part of the media event Thursday, said any government support should include "significant carve-outs for supporting workers, rather than protecting only corporate bottom lines."

CUPE, which represents 15,000 flight attendants, also said a government stake in the companies should be a condition of any federal assistance, with parallels to Germany's $14-billion bailout of Lufthansa that saw the government take a 20 per cent share of the airline.

However, Unifor president Jerry Dias said a government stake should only come into consideration if an airline defaults on a loan.

Governments across the globe have doled out $123 billion to assist the airline industry, Dias said. Canada, on the other hand, has steered clear of sector-specific support, instead rolling out financial aid such as wage subsidies available to many industries.

Ottawa has also held off on requiring airlines to refund customers whose flights were cancelled due to the pandemic, potentially saving carriers hundreds of millions of dollars. In contrast, European and U.S. authorities have demanded airlines reimburse travellers, on top of the strings attached to financial lifelines that range from limiting dividends and executive bonuses to cutting carbon emissions and carving out ownership stakes for government.

Travel restrictions and dried-up demand continue to take a toll on the airline and tourism industries. More than 30,000 employees have been laid off or furloughed at Air Canada and WestJet Airlines Ltd. Passenger numbers in Canada were down 90 per cent year over year in July, though the 845,000 travellers made up nearly twice the number of the previous month, according to Statistics Canada.

"We are in dire, dire straits. Air Canada is blowing through about $15 million a day in cash... That is completely unsustainable," said Dias, whose union represents 15,000 workers in the industry including pilots, baggage handlers and customers sales agents.

Dias applauded Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government for extending the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy into next summer, but noted that some carriers such as Air Canada have not signed on, leaving thousands of former employees without a steady income. Meanwhile the Large Employer Emergency Financing Facility (LEEFF), a federal program that provides loans starting at $60 million to large firms, "just isn't working" due to "incredible restrictions" and roughly eight per cent interest, he said.

In its throne speech last week, the Liberal government pledged to "support regional routes," but has provided no details.

Unfortunately, the Trudeau government continues to leave the thousands of Canadians who rely on the aviation industry in the dark about how or if they will have jobs to return to," said Conservative transport critic Stephanie Kusie, who called the LEEFF program "broken and untenable."

NDP labour critic Scott Duvall echoed the unions in demanding that help go "directly to workers and not just a blank cheque to CEOs." Airlines should also be required to refund the thousands of passengers whose flights were cancelled as a result of the coronavirus, he said in a statement.

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The National Airlines Council of Canada welcomed the plea from union leaders and backed their call for government adoption of a rapid testing regime as a critical step toward recovery, which remains in "Stage Zero," president Mike McNaney said in a release.

Air Canada  one of the council's four members  announced Thursday it has finalized an order of rapid COVID-19 tests made by U.S.-based Abbott Laboratories. The health-care company's point-of-care kits, called ID NOW tests, will be taken voluntarily by employees, Air Canada said.

The rollout follows Air Canada's month-long pilot project in partnership with McMaster HealthLabs to test passengers voluntarily at Toronto's Pearson airport. Preliminary results from the study suggest that "a test-based strategy may be an available and safe alternative to the 14-day quarantine" required of arriving passengers, said Dr. Jim Chung, Air Canada's chief medical officer.

WestJet Airlines Ltd. and Vancouver International Airport are also launching a project to test passengers voluntarily for the coronavirus on some departing flights, part of a broader push by carriers to show they are serious about combating viral spread as they try to coax Canadians back to the skies.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 1, 2020.

Companies in this story: (TSX:AC)
Emirates has announced it will resume flights to Johannesburg (1 October), Cape Town (1 October), Durban (4 October) in South Africa; Harare in Zimbabwe (1 October); and Mauritius (3 October). The addition of the five points will expand the Emirates' global network to 92 destinations, as the airline gradually resumes its operations while prioritising the safety of its customers, crew and the communities it serves around the world. Emirates' African network will also now extend to 19 cities.

Image Supplied.

Customers flying in and out of Emirates three South African gateways can safely connect to Dubai and to an array of onwards connections to Europe, the Far East, Middle East, West Asia and Australasia.Emirates will operate to Harare with two weekly flights linked to its Lusaka service. The linked services will connect Zambia and Zimbabwe to key destinations across Europe, the Far East, the Americas, Australasia and West Asia with one convenient stop in Dubai.Flights from Dubai to Mauritius will initially operate once a week on Saturdays, supporting the Mauritian governments repatriation efforts to bring its citizens home, and enabling the recovery of the countrys tourism industry by safely connecting leisure travellers from Europe, the Far East and the Middle East to the popular Indian Ocean island destination.Customers can stop over or travel to Dubai as the city has re-opened for international business and leisure visitors. Ensuring the safety of travellers, visitors, and the community, Covid-19 PCR tests are mandatory for all inbound and transit passengers arriving to Dubai (and the UAE), including UAE citizens, residents and tourists, irrespective of the country they are coming from.
HEGINS, Pa.  Rick Bender, who owns a coal processing plant in Hegins, Pennsylvania, voted for Republican Donald Trump in 2016, in part because of his promise to revive the industry from a decadelong decline.

The revival never came. Bender says he is struggling to keep workers employed at the plant in eastern Pennsylvania because coal prices are so low. Still, he plans to vote for Trump again come November. He says the presidents Democratic challenger Joe Biden is too focused on fighting climate change.

We feel if Trump doesnt get elected, the coal business is done, said Bender, 61.

Bender represents a dynamic that could complicate Democratic efforts to win back battleground states like Pennsylvania in the 2020 fight for the White House. Instead of punishing Trump for failing to deliver the coal renaissance he promised, many voters with ties to blue-collar industries continue to support him.

Reuters interviewed 26 coal workers across Pennsylvania and found that all but one plans to back Trump on Nov. 3. While many cited faults with the president, whose incendiary style turns some off, they fear Bidens clean-energy plan would hasten coals decline, and that the new green jobs wouldnt come quickly enough to keep their families financially secure. An experienced miner can expect to earn as much as $100,000 annually including overtime, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

There really is a very big human cost of just turning the light switch off, on coal, said Jarrod Gieniec, 40, a miner at Silver Creek in eastern Pennsylvanias Schuylkill County.

Recent polls show Biden ahead in Pennsylvania, helped by his strength in Philadelphia and surrounding suburbs. A Reuters/Ipsos poll from last week showed the former vice president with a narrow 3 percentage-point lead in the state, while a Washington Post-ABC News poll released Sept. 29 shows Biden with a 9 percentage-point advantage there among likely voters.

But many rural and blue-collar areas remain devoted to Trump. In Schuylkill County, for example, Republican voter registrations have surged on his watch. Republicans there held a slim 5,600-voter advantage over registered Democrats in 2016, an edge that now exceeds 17,000 voters, according to Pennsylvania voter data.

The fortunes of the coal industry have not fared as well. U.S. production peaked in 2008 at 1.2 billion tons, and it has mostly fallen since as U.S. utilities have embraced cheaper  and cleaner  natural gas. Since 2010, 252 U.S. coal-fired power plants have shut, 66 since Trumps inauguration, according to the Sierra Club environmental group.

U.S. coal production last year sank to 706 million tons, the lowest level since 1978, when a strike crippled output. Industry employment has plummeted more than 40% since 2008 to around 46,500 workers currently.

Still, miners say Trump has earned their loyalty.

The president put a former coal lobbyist, Andrew Wheeler, at the head of the Environmental Protection Agency. Trump rolled back Obama-era rules to limit power-plant emissions and to protect streams from coal waste, signing a measure on the latter while surrounded by helmeted miners in the White House. And he pulled the United States out of the Paris agreement on climate, in part because he said it hurt U.S. coal jobs.

Pennsylvania, with 20 Electoral College votes, is a critical battleground state that could determine whether Trump wins a second term. He carried the state by less than a percentage point in 2016 and has almost no path to victory if he doesnt prevail there again this year.

Pennsylvanias 5,000 coal miners remain an influential voting bloc. Their political networks are wide, and their views are similar to those of other blue-collar voters, once a stronghold of the Democratic Party, who have pivoted to Trump, said Kristyn Karl, a political scientist at Stevens Institute of Technology in New Jersey.

She pointed to 2016 polls that predicted  incorrectly  that Democrat Hillary Clinton would prevail in Pennsylvania.

If nothing else, 2016 made a lot of political scientists and pollsters much more wary of relying so tightly on polls, and aware that small groups can have a big impact, Karl said.

No immediate elimination of coal

Biden, a Pennsylvania native, is walking a tightrope between the old fossil-fuel interests that support blue-collar jobs and his vision for a $2-trillion transition to clean energy supported by many young voters.

At a campaign event in Pittsburgh last month, he said he would not ban fracking on private lands, a method of oil and gas drilling that has boomed in Pennsylvania. I am not banning fracking, no matter how many times Donald Trump lies about me, Biden said.

His climate proposal calls for supporting coal communities to mitigate job losses. It envisions developing technology to capture emissions from coal-fired plants to keep those facilities operating. Theres nothing in ... the climate plan that would immediately eliminate coal from our power sector, a Biden campaign official told Reuters.

Many fossil-fuel workers remain skeptical.

The United Mine Workers of America (UMWA), which had a long history of supporting Democrats, hasnt backed any presidential candidate since it endorsed Barack Obamas first run in 2008.

There has been no industry revival under Trump despite White House slogans such as Trump Digs Coal, said UMWA spokesman Phil Smith. Coal is not back, especially in places like Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Ohio, Smith said.

Still, he said many rank-and-file members fear that Bidens climate plan is slated to put them out of work.

Cant stand Trump, voting for him anyway

Trump visited Pennsylvania five times in September, the most visits of any state. His campaign has focused on increasing his margins from 2016 in rural counties like Schuylkill and improving his results in urban areas and the suburbs.

Registered Democrats outnumber Republicans in Pennsylvania by more than 724,000 voters, according to state election statistics as of September 28. Still, Republicans have picked up nearly 300,400 new net registered voters there since 2016, compared with a gain of nearly 88,500 for Democrats  a boost Republicans attribute to Trump.

Thats a tangible difference in its direction towards the president, a Trump campaign official said about registrations.

The Biden campaign discounted those Republican gains, saying it expects strong support from newly registered independent voters in Pennsylvania, whose numbers have increased by 130,000 since 2016, according to the state data.

Pennsylvania laborers such as Chip Eichenberg believe Trumps tax cuts and easing of regulations can boost the coal and steel industries again.

Eichenberg, 72, who operates a massive machine to excavate anthracite coal from a strip mine in St. Clair, said he did not vote for Trump in 2016 but plans to this time around. I didnt think he had enough experience, Eichenberg said. But that proved to be wrong. He got the economy going.

Miners who spoke to Reuters said they were taken aback when Biden suggested late last year that coal workers could easily transition to computer coding.

First of all, theyre going to be miserable; second of all, theyre not going to be able to do it, said Gieniec, the Silver Creek miner. A registered Democrat who voted for Clinton in 2016, he said hell vote for Trump in November even though he cant stand him.

I dont like the way (Trump) treats other people, Gieniec said. But if Biden wins it would end a way of life.

Additional reporting by Trevor Hunnicutt.
Carnival Cruise Line announced on Thursday that it has canceled all cruises through December, with the exception of those leaving from Port Canaveral and Miami.



A statement released by Carnival on Thursday said that following the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions extension to the no-sail order for cruise ships and cruises from all U.S. home ports except Port Canaveral and Miami are canceled through December.
The Trinamool Congress on Wednesday launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his silence" on the gangrape incident at Hathras in BJP-ruled Uttar Pradesh and said that he should speak up for Dalits if he has any humanity left". The West Bengal BJP also hit back, asking TMC leaders to first focus their attention on the rising crimes against women in the state and then lecture others.

A 19-year-old Dalit woman was raped in Hathras by four men on September 14. After her condition deteriorated, she was referred to Delhis Safdarjung hospital where she died on Tuesday. An unspeakable crime committed in #Hathras under@narendramodijis reign and he was silent," Trinamool YouthCongress president and MP Abhishek Banerjee wrote on Twitter.

#Modispeakup4dalits if you have any humanity left inside," he added. Abhishek, the nephew of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, also claimed that the UP Police disrespected her remains.

The girl succumbed to her injuries, after battling to stay alive for 15 days and now, @UPpolice has utterly disrespected her remains!" Banerjee wrote. The woman was cremated in the early hours of Wednesday in the village, with her family alleging the local police forced them to conduct the last rites in the dead of night.

TMC Rajya Sabha party leader Derek O Brien also condemned the attack on Dalits and demanded justice for them. Dalits are our assets. We strongly condemn any act of torture against them. If such an incident occurs, we take the strictest action. But many incidents do not come before the public. Dalits are an integral part of our society. We are committed to their justice," OBrien tweeted.

Senior TMC leader and MP Sougata Ray also said thatthe incident reflects the worsening law and order situation inUttar Pradesh. We demand exemplary punishment for the culprits," hesaid.

State BJP president Dilip Ghosh asked TMC leaders to"stop shedding crocodile tears". Under the TMC regime, crimes against women have goneup in the state. They should first set their own house inorder and then lecture others," Ghosh said.

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U.S. Rep. Ken Buck, the chairman of the Colorado Republican Party, on Wednesday pushed for further investigations into allegations contained in a TV news story that was retracted over the weekend concerning a mailing sent to potential voters by Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold, a Democrat.

The original story, aired Friday on Denver's CBS4, mistakenly suggested that a postcard sent earlier this month encouraging eligible voters to register ahead of the November election was connected to the state's voter rolls and was somehow urging non-citizens and dead people to vote.

CBS4 news director Tim Wieland pulled the story Sunday afternoon and replaced it later that night with an interview with Griswold meant to "[set] the record straight," but not until after conservative news outlets and Republican personalities had blown up the misleading account across the internet.

On Sunday, Breitbart posted what amounted to a rewrite of the original story and Donald Trump Jr., the president's son, tweeted the story to his 5.6 million followers along with graphic sirens and the comment, "Sure the Dems arent trying to cheat!!!"

By Wednesday morning, the Breitbart story had been shared on Facebook more than 57,000 times, and the younger Trump's tweet linking to the retracted story had been retweeted and liked nearly 20,000 times.

On Wednesday, Buck sent a letter to Attorney General William Barr and the chairman of the Federal Election Commission asking for an investigation into the postcard.

"The American people deserve to know that the 2020 election will be conducted in a fair and transparent manner," Buck wrote. "As such, I urge the DOJ and FEC to open an investigation into the Colorado Secretary of States efforts to register individuals who are ineligible to vote."

Contrary to the news station's initial report, the postcard isn't encouraging ineligible voters to sign up, Betsy Hart, the secretary of state's communications director, told Colorado Politics. Instead, the informational mailer makes clear that the recipient "may be eligible to vote" and spells out the legal requirements to register in bold type: Colorado voters must be 18 years old, a U.S. citizen and reside in the state for at least 22 days before an election.

The postcard, which went to 750,000 Colorado addresses this year and was expected to yield 75,000 newly registered voters, was sent using a mailing list culled from data assembled by a national election organization from motor vehicle records. It's routinely used by state election officials to help identify people who aren't registered to vote, Hart said.

"The list is compared to other information, such as the Social Security Death Index to remove people from the mailing," she said. "The mailing list is not the same as Colorado's voter rolls; as by definition it targets unregistered people."

Hart noted that the election information postcard was first sent out using a similarly compiled list by Griswold's GOP predecessor Scott Gessler, and former Secretary of State Wayne Williams, also a Republican, continued the practice through his four-year term.

"These reports that Secretary Griswold's office has sent postcards encouraging people to register to vote who are otherwise ineligible to vote in this year's elections are deeply concerning," Buck said in his news release Tuesday. "What is more concerning is simply the unknown scope of these errors," he said, adding that he was asking Griswold for the complete mailing list and an explanation why some ineligible voters got the postcard.

"We must get to the bottom of this," he said on Twitter.

Buck said the state party heard from a woman who received the postcard addressed to her late mother, who died in 2016 and hadn't lived in the state since 1967.

"I have received many emails from Republicans across Colorado concerned about this issue and would like to hear how Secretary Griswold plans to avoid this issue from happening again," Buck said. "I am confident in the security of Colorado's election system, but I need to hear more about the source of this problem, so we can assure Coloradans that there isn't more to this story than originally reported."

A spokesman for the Colorado Republican Party didn't make Buck available for an interview and didn't respond to a question asking whether the party had received similar complaints about the mailer in previous years.

Its a shame that Chairman Buck and the Colorado GOP are complicit in the Presidents efforts to spread misinformation and discredit Colorados election model, which is recognized as the gold standard across the country and has resulted in electoral victories for their own party," Griswold told Colorado Politics.

"This partisan, politically-motivated attack from the Colorado GOP is an attempt to undermine confidence in our elections by fear mongering and spreading debunked election misinformation," she said.

Griswold has regularly pushed back against President Donald Trump's repeated warnings about mail ballots, including a remark made by Trump in Tuesday's debate complaining about "unsolicited" mail ballots. "This is going to be a fraud like you've never seen," said Trump.

"Registering to vote is soliciting a ballot in Colorado," Griswold tweeted moments after the debate ended. "We believe voters should have access to safe, secure and accessible elections. We believe in vote-by-mail for all.

Ian Silverii, executive director of ProgressNow Colorado, said Buck's complaint hinged entirely on misunderstanding what the phrase "may be eligible" means.

Republican Walker Stapleton, a two-term state treasurer and 2018 GOP nominee for governor, "ran a million-dollar television ad campaign saying that you may have money owed to you in the unclaimed property trust fund," Silverii said.

"It would have been illegal to impersonate someone who is owed money and collect it, just like it would be illegal to register to vote or register someone else to vote if they are not eligible and received one of these postcards."
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Linkedin Moch. Fiqih Prawira Adjie (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Thu, October 1, 2020 15:27 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4878b0a 1 National mahfud-md,Amnesty-International,Amnesty-International-Indonesia,Papua,Intan-Jaya,shooting,shootings,killing,PGI,pastor,vanuatu,UN,TNI Free

The government will establish a joint team involving officials and members of the public to probe the recent killings in Papuas Intan Jaya regency, Coordinating Political, Legal and Security Affairs Minister Mahfud MD said on Thursday.

Mahfud added that the teams members would include government officials, academics as well as religious, community and customary leaders. The team would report its findings to President Joko Jokowi Widodo through the coordinating minister.

The government will form [this] joint investigation team that can be more objective in exploring [the killings], so as not to cause controversy, Mahfud said during a press conference on Thursday.

In the last few weeks, authorities and the press have reported several killings in the regency. Mahfud confirmed the deaths of one pastor, one civilian and two Indonesian Military (TNI) personnel, saying that an armed criminal group (KKB) was responsible.

The Indonesian Communion of Churches (PGI) has alleged that the slain pastor, Yeremia Zanambani, was killed by a TNI soldier. The military has denied that.

Mahfud also called on the police to continue investigating the cases. We have ordered the police to continue to uncover these cases in a professional manner following the applicable law.

Mahfud also commented on the recent United Nations General Assembly, where Vanuatu Prime Minister Bob Loughman said that Jakarta had been selective in addressing alleged human rights violations in Papua and West Papua while abuses continue in the countrys easternmost region.

Mahfud said Vanuatus persistence with the claims was no longer interesting, claiming that similar allegations from other countries had been decreasing since 2016.

For Indonesia, Vanuatu is making things up. [...] Vanuatu is not the people of Papua and does not represent the people of Papua, because Papua is Indonesia and Indonesia is Papua, he said, adding that the government would continue law enforcement and human rights protection efforts in Papua.

In the UN General Assembly, the second secretary at the Indonesian mission to the UN, Silvany Austin Pasaribu, said countries had to respect other countries' sovereignty and the principle of noninterference in domestic affairs, citing the UN charter.

However, Amnesty International Indonesia executive director Usman Hamid said that issues of human rights abuse were universal affairs. He added that the occurrence of many extrajudicial killings in Papua still painted a bleak picture of human rights protection in the region, noting five unlawful deaths in the previous three months alone.

None of the cases of extrajudicial killings have been completely resolved. This is the task for Indonesia, Usman said in Wednesdays statement. If Indonesia stayed true to its human rights commitment, there would be no critical questions from anywhere, from the UN Human Rights Council or from other countries, such as Vanuatu.
Parents whose children benefit from medical marijuana to deal with debilitating medical problems have long turned to Dr. Eric Ruby for help accessing the drug. But come Oct. 30, the 73-year-old Ruby has said he will retire, potentially throwing the states already cumbersome pediatric medical marijuana program into short-term chaos.

Rubys now cares for the vast majority of pediatric cannabis patients in the state. Hes the primary pediatrician for almost 60 pediatric patients in the medical marijuana program. As of mid-September, there were 54 active pediatric registrations in the states Medical Use of Marijuana online system, according to the Cannabis Control Commission. In June there were 93.

His retirement means that children who need cannabis will have to seek out an entire new team of doctors to get it. But while the state has thousands of doctors, just a handful seek the certification to prescribe medical marijuana, given federal illegalities that could threaten hospital research dollars and reimbursements.

What needs to happen is the doctors (caring for the patients underlying condition) need to be certified (to recommend marijuana), Ruby said. The doctors know their patients are taking this medication, so those doctors need to push the agenda that they should be able to take care of a medical need.

Cannabis regulators require that every pediatric patient seeking a medical marijuana card in Massachusetts must receive a recommendation for cannabis from two physicians certified by the state. For kids, one of those physicians must specialize in pediatrics.

Regulators are now in the process of enacting new regulations that would expand the number of certified cannabis providers able to work with children from 15 to 79. Those new regulations, set to be voted on by the Cannabis Control Commission at the end of October, would allow a pediatric sub-specialist, oncologist, neurologist, or family physician to qualify as their " pediatric recommendation.

Currently, the Cannabis Control Commission says there are 12 physicians and three nurse practitioners registered with the state who say they specialize in pediatrics. Changing the language would allow an additional eight oncologists, 22 neurologists, and 49 family care physicians currently certified by the state to also work with children.

Though not all those physicians might be willing to work with children, it would conceivably increase the caregivers who are able to work with kids.

The state says its required by law to keep the names of those providers confidential.

Caregivers or patients with concerns about future access to the Medical Use of Marijuana Program should consult with their certifying healthcare provider or active patient advocacy organizations in the Commonwealth about resources for pursuing recommendations for medical grade cannabis, said Maryalice Curley, a spokeswoman for the Cannabis Control Commission.

But Ruby says hes unable to refer patients to new providers because he doesnt know what other certified providers are working with children. Patients themselves struggle to find a provider, with Ruby saying he often hears that patients have been looking for a pediatrician willing to recommend cannabis for a year before finding him.

Even if parents are able to find a new physician, they are likely to come with a higher price tag. Parent Rachel Butze, for instance, said after struggling to find Ruby for several months, she recently located two new pediatricians willing to recommend cannabis to her 16-year-old son, who had been diagnosed with anxiety, a mood disorder, PTSD, ADHD, a pervasive developmental disorder and depression.

But unlike Ruby, who charged $75 a visit, the new physicians she has found are charging $200-$300 a visit. Further check-ins are required by the doctor anywhere from every three months to every six.

All told, Butze said she might have to pay $1,000 a year just for the physician visits.

This is already an extreme burden on families that are struggling, Butze said. Why should it continue to put them in a position where they have to choose medicine or food for their children?

Ruby says that despite the burdens his retirement will put on patients, coronavirus has put a financial strain on his practice. PPP loans from the federal government are running out. At 73-years-old, with underlying respiratory problems, he also worries about his health. Already this summer, hes had to close the office several times due to coronavirus scares.

Yet he worries that for those desperate enough for medical cannabis, and unable to navigate the hurdles to come, he also worries parents will turn to more accessible products on the illegal market.

The whole reason to have medicinal cannabis is so it is clean, monitored, so we know its not impure. This is why my retirement puts it in crisis mode, Ruby said.
Motorola unveiled the Razr 5G last month, and the flip phone's making its way to markets including China and the US. It is also expected in select European markets but before that, the US company will launch it in India.

The availability and pricing will be detailed on Monday, October 5, at 12 PM IST and the phone will be available on Flipkart.

The Razr 5G is an update over the Razr 2019 with a new 5G-enabled chipset, more RAM and storage, while keeping the same display. The camera department was also improved - now we have a 48 MP main shooter and a 20 MP selfie snapper on the inside.

Price of the Moto Razr 5G was initially set at $1,399 in the United States, but it is sold in China for the equivalent of $1,800. The Moto Razr 2019 is currently INR124,990 on Flipkart and we expect the new phone to be in the same ballpark.

Source (mobile only)
Lagos lawmaker, Hon Desmond Elliot, on Thursday applauded the courage, commitment and loyalty of nationalists who risked their lives to the pursuit of political emancipation and freedom of the country from colonialism and imperialism.

He also commended Nigerians for sustaining hope for a better nation.

We have much to be thankful for and a lot more to be hopeful about. This is the time to show commitment. This is the time to bless the good people of Surulere Constituency 1, socialize and communicate with the constituents. We are talking, communicating and empowering the people. As representatives, we must be there for our people; we must listen to the cry of the people. We made a promise a month ago to support some people, he said.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Femi Gbajabiamila and Hon Desmond Elliot on Wednesday, September 30 picked the medical bills of Ward G3 Youth Leader, Bolaji Oki.

On Thursday, October 1, the Lagos lawmaker commissioned boreholes in Ward E 1 and Ward F3, Recreation Centre in Ward E. He also gave cash to a lot of people in Surulere Constituency 1.

The lawmaker emphasized healthcare, small scale businesses and conglomerate.

We bother ourselves with things that are not necessary. Tribalism is one of the most disruptive influences confronting us, he said.

The member representing Surulere Constituency 1 in the Lagos State House of Assembly urged politicians to emulate the spirit of the nationalists, their dedication to duty, their precision and concept of national unity.

In a statement signed by the Chairman, Lagos Political, Community and Religious Leaders Forum (LPCRLF), Mr. Alao Taiwo, the representative of Surulere Constituency 1 appealed to political leaders and youths in the country to avoid any action capable of destabilizing the nation.

He enjoined Nigerians to work harder to enhance productivity, reduce unemployment and poverty and ensure prosperity.

The APC Government will continue to attract investments, ensure better terms of trade and improve relations with creditors and development partners.

The famous actor advised Nigerians to rededicate themselves to the cause of building a strong, united and viable nation.

We have positive achievements and dividends of democracy to report, he said and commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for focusing on meaningful development projects.
SAN BERNARDINO, Calif., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Molina Healthcare of California ("Molina"), and Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) are joining forces to lead a new healthcare initiative called "Together4IE." This collaboration will raise awareness about available coverage through Medi-Cal and the health insurance marketplace (Covered California) to support Californians affected by income or employment changes during the COVID-19 pandemic. The health plans launched a website and are offering a toll-free number (1-866-U2Apply) to learn more about securing affordable health insurance.

The California Employment Development Department reported that as of July 2020, more than 275,000 residents in the Inland Empire region were unemployed. The unemployment rates in Riverside and San Bernardino counties are both over 13%, having increased by approximately 4.7% and 4.4%, respectively, compared to the unemployment rates from 2019, which has led many to consequently lose health insurance coverage for themselves and their families.

"As many families face increased uncertainty during this time, Molina and IEHP are here to help them navigate the health care system," said John Kotal, president of Molina Healthcare of California. "As a company with roots in this region for decades, Molina continues to advocate for quality access to health care for IE residents who need it most."

Working together to support this population, the "Together4IE" initiative connects qualified residents to resources and works to reduce any stigma around government-sponsored health care. In addition to the resources made available, partnering organizations are actively engaging with individuals and families, as well as communities, to ensure that those interested in affordable health care are fully aware of the available options.

Community agencies engaged in support of the initiative include: Covered California, Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Riverside Department of Public Social Services, Riverside University Health System, San Bernardino County Transitional Assistance Department, Southern California Edison, Southern California Gas Company, and hundreds of local community organizations.

"This is about doing the right thing for the community we know and love," said Jarrod McNaughton, IEHP chief executive officer. "Through collaboration and partnerships with agencies in the Inland Empire, we can rally around our neighbors to fill in the gaps in care, coverage and information. The health and wellness of our communities is our largest priority, and we will do all we can to ensure residents have access to the care and resources they need."

For more information or to enroll, visit https://www.together4ie.com/ or call 1-866-U2Apply (866-822-7759).

About Molina Healthcare of California

Molina Healthcare of California has been providing government-funded care for low-income individuals for 40 years. Molina's mission has always been to provide quality health care to people receiving government assistance. As of June 30, 2020, the company serves approximately 572,000 members through Medi-Cal, Medicare, Medicare-Medicaid (Duals) and Covered California (Marketplace). Molina's service areas include Sacramento, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside, San Diego, Orange, and Imperial counties. For more information, visit MolinaHealthcare.com and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

About IEHP

IEHP, Inland Empire Health Plan, is one of the top 10 largest Medicaid health plans and the largest not-for-profit Medicare-Medicaid plan in the country. With a network of more than 6,400 Providers and more than 2,000 employees, IEHP serves more than 1.3 million residents in Riverside and San Bernardino counties who are enrolled in Medicaid or Cal MediConnect Plan (Medicare-Medicaid Plan). Through a dynamic partnership with Providers and Community, award-winning service and innovative products, IEHP is fully committed to advocating for our Members and providing them with quality, accessible and wellness-based health care services. For more information, https://iehp.org/

SOURCE Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP)

Related Links

http://www.iehp.org


Changes Underway At Hill Regional As New Leadership Pursues Goals The new owners of Hill Regional Hospital continue to pursue their goal of meeting specific needs in the community and ensuring that the care of Hill County residents stays in Hill County.



Toward that goal, Hill Regional is adding a number of specialty doctors and programs after consulting with community leaders and residents and actively monitoring the needs of those seeking medical care.



Part of that process is identifying why patients have been transported to other facilities for care and how those needs can be met locally. "I'm looking at why we are sending them somewhere else and what we can do," CEO Raji Kumar said. "I'm finding it and I'm fixing it."



For instance, Kumar noted that a patient on dialysis who needed surgery would have to be sent to another hospital because dialysis was not available at Hill Regional. To ensure that these patients can receive their care close to home, the hospital responded by developing an in-patient dialysis unit.



When certain large employers pointed out that they had to send employees to Waco for treatment of work-related injuries, the hospital began the process of adding occupational medicine to its list of specialties.



One area that has quickly taken shape is orthopedics. With the addition of several new orthopedic surgeons, local residents can now receive treatment and surgery, including total joint replacement, without leaving Hillsboro.



Within the first six weeks of the hospital's new ownership, doctors performed 10 orthopedic surgeries and a kidney stone removal in Hillsboro.



Other expanded offerings that were put into place within the first six weeks include hand surgery, nephrology (involving kidneys and diseases that affect the kidneys, such as diabetes), urology and nutrition counseling.



The hospital has also added 30-minute COVID-19 testing in response to the current pandemic.



In addition to placing local doctors back in the hospital, Hill Regional has added 41 new employees, mostly local residents, who are now serving the community.



"Many employees have come back, and they are local people focusing on local care," said Sanjay Bala, Director of Marketing and Business Development.



Along with the familiar faces, the new management and doctors who are moving to town are also settling into their new homes. While working to expand and improve the hospital, they are joining local organizations, identifying their favorite restaurants and getting to know the residents.



"We've moved to the community, we're getting involved in the community and we're patronizing local businesses," said Bala, who has recently joined the Hillsboro Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.



With the new programs up and running, the hospital still has a long list of plans to bring their vision for Hill Regional to life.



In the short term, the hospital is working to offer mental health services, add a wound care clinic, and create a medical stabilization program for those entering drug rehabilitation.



A retail pharmacy is also expected to be opened at the hospital within the next month to serve the community.



The emergency department is being overhauled and is now staffed with local employees. The goal is to create a "zero wait time" ER, where patients are seen by a provider as soon as they walk in the door.



"In addition to our patients, we want the staff that provides all of the services to feel at home at Hill Regional Hospital," said Bala.



"We are in the process of adding an EMS lounge so that the EMS staff can relax in private and grab a snack while waiting, and we are upgrading the physicians' lounge."



Kumar said that the community has given her team a warm welcome, and that helps keep them going as they work to expand the hospital's services. "We are happy they are giving us a second chance," she said.



While a lot has changed at Hill Regional Hospital recently, management says that the goal remains constant: "the ability to provide quality and compassionate care to the people of Hillsboro and the surrounding counties."



"We know that the community needs are changing every day, and that is why we continue to progress with them," Kumar said.



"We are working hard to create a welcoming, healing environment. This experience continues with our friendly staff, doctors, nurses and technicians trained in a wide range of specialties. Hill Regional Hospital is the ideal destination for your familys health," she added.


Casa Palopo

With travel rebounding, hotels and resorts are tailoring packages to a new ultra-private travel theme  the resort buyout. And for the ultimate private vacation experience where better to head than Guatemalas only Relais & Chateaux property? Located around 90 miles from Guatemala City on the edge of Santa Catarina Palopo, one of 12 Mayan towns on the shore of Lake Atitlan, Casa Palopo enjoys stunning views over the lake and beyond to distant volcanoes.

Described as the closest thing to Eden on Earth, and, being surrounded by some of natures most beautiful wonders Lake Atitlan certainly lives up to its reputation as a paradisiacal escape.

Casa Palopo

Lakeside Residence Turned Boutique Hotel

Leveraging its unique configuration to offer guests a more private experience, travelers can currently book the entire property  including the main building and three-suite villa, which comes with its own infinity pool  for $5,555 per night, plus taxes. Another wing of the hotel La Casita, accessible via a small staircase near the reception that leads to three deluxe rooms sleeping six guests total, is also being sold.

When booking La Casita, the library (traditionally a common area between suites where guests can borrow books and enjoy a cozy nook for reading) is converted into a private living and dining room for the exclusive use of that party, offering a great option for multi-generational families or guests traveling in small groups or pods.

Casa Palopo

Outdoor Experiences

Surrounded by three volcanos and dozens of villages, there is plenty to do at Lake Atitlan. Active and outdoorsy types can hike up nearby Indian Nose  one of the most epic sunrise viewpoints in Guatemala  before spending an afternoon paddleboarding on the lake. Culturally minded travelers will enjoy the thriving craft markets where they can shop for colorful textiles, jewelry, and other handmade goods, to take home.

And while the hotel can arrange scenic tours by either boat or helicopter, Casa Palopos extensive outdoor areas offer a wealth of new private experiences, highlights of which include a Guatemalan teatime with delicacies prepared by new executive chef Alvaro Pereira served under a canopy, and an Instagram-worthy pop-up glamping tent for guests in search of a unique place to relax - or perhaps make a special proposal.

Casa Palopo

New Community Credit Program

With todays travel climate affecting tourism-reliant communities worldwide, a 'new normal calls for a new approach. Alongside advanced cleaning protocols, in preparation for reopening earlier this month, Casa Palopo went a step further to ensure the concerns and safety of their local indigenous community were also being met  thanks to a new Community Credit program, which reimagines the traditional resort credit model to encourage guest spending outside of the hotel.

From each nightly rate, 10% is being given back in vouchers that guests can spend on items made and sold locally by the Kaqchikel Maya, who, in turn, are then able to redeem the vouchers back at the hotel for cash. To further support the community, Casa Palopo is also encouraging guests to stay on property, where artisans are being invited to host pop-up demonstrations. Experiences so far include an interactive weaving demonstration by women from the Santa Catarina cultural center.

Casa Palopo

Based on double occupancy, nightly rates at Casa Palopo start at $197 for a guestroom and $738 for La Casita, plus taxes and fees. For bookings and inquiries email reservaciones@casapalopo.com or visit casapalopo.com.
The Coastal Development Authority (CODA) has inspected and taken delivery of 622 Suzuki outboard motors which form the second tranche of 5,000 outboard motors procured by the Authority with funding from the Infrastructure for Poverty Eradication Programme (IPEP) under the Ministry for Special Development Initiatives (MSDI) to be distributed to fishers at highly subsidized prices.



The first tranche of 1,300 outboard motors has already been distributed to fishers in Greater Accra, Central, Western, and Volta Regions.



Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of CODA, Lawyer Jerry Ahmed Shaib, on Tuesday, 29th September 2020 led officials of the Authority to inspect and take delivery of the equipment at the premises of CFAO in Tema.



Briefing the media, the CEO stated emphatically that, the Authority procured the outboard motors on the directive of the President to purposely help alleviate poverty among fishers by empowering them to do their business through the distribution of outboard motors at highly subsidized prices".



Regarding resale of the equipment, Lawyer Jerry Ahmed Shaib sounded a note of caution to all that it would constitute an offense for anyone, irrespective of their status, to acquire an outboard motor from CODA at a subsidized price and resell same at a higher price.



Subsidy



Under the intervention, a 40-horsepower outboard motor which costs GHS20,000 is being sold for GHS10,000 representing a subsidy of 50 percent, while a 15-horsepower outboard motor with a market price of GHS14,500 is being offered to fishers at GHS5,000 representing a subsidy of about 65 percent.



Modalities for distribution



Under the arrangement, interested fishers who had their names captured by CODA during needs assessment and stakeholder engagement, prior to procurement of the equipment, can visit the Head Office of CODA in Accra to pay and collect their outboard motors. This is the only mechanism by which the distribution of this second tranche will be done.

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.

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The global biodegradable plastic market was valued at $1.2 billion in 2018, and is projected to reach $6.0 billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 21.3% from 2019 to 2026.



Biodegradable plastic is a plant based plastic with no hazardous effects on the environment. It composed of petrochemical, renewable material, and micro-organisms. The idea of biodegradable plastic reveals little or no degradation of plastic material over the period, causing least hazards to environment. Hence, plastic that is defined as biodegradable is made of molecule that can break down naturally by the action of micro-organisms. Some of the major known types of the biodegradable plastic includes, Poly(lactic Acid (PLA), Polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), Polybutylene Succinate (PBS), Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), and Starch Blends.



The global biodegradable plastic market is in introductory phase of industry life cycle and is expected to explore new growth opportunities during the coming years. Some of the basic factors driving the demand for biodegradable plastic include governmental initiatives to eliminate single use plastic and strict regulatory outlook against the use of conventional plastic products. Industry trends are shifting toward bio based products to reduce dependence on conventional plastics. Biobased and biodegradable plastic is least toxic and causes no adverse effects environments. Hence, its demand is on the rise at significant pace.

Request For Report sample @ https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com/report/sample/13336

Moreover, most of manufacturers from each industry vertical are shifting toward use of biobased plastic due to pressure from regulatory bodies. Packaging textile, and agriculture industries are being some of them. Such factors are largely impacting the growth of the global biodegradable market. On the other hand, the growth of the market is restrained by high cost of biodegradable plastic over its conventional counterparts. Growth opportunities in this market are promising which is projected to come from concept like corporate social responsibility and decreased dependence on synthetic resources.

The global biodegradable plastic market is segmented on the basis of type, application, and region. Based on type, the market is bifurcated into includes (Poly(lactic Acid) (PLA), Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate (PBAT), Polybutylene Succinate (PBS), Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), Starch Blends, and others. On the basis of application, the global biodegradable plastic market is categorized into packaging, agriculture, textile, consumer durable and others. Based on region, it is studied across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and LAMEA.



Some of the major manufacturers studied and profiled in the global biodegradable plastic market are BASF SE, DowDuPont Inc, Novamont S.p.A., Plantic, Natureworks, Corbion N.V., Biome Technologies plc, Eastman Chemical Company, and Danimer Scientific.



KEY BENEFITS FOR STAKEHOLDERS

 Porters five forces analysis helps analyze the potential of buyers & suppliers and the competitive scenario of the industry for strategy building

 It outlines the current trends and future scenario of the market from 2019 to 2026 to understand the prevailing opportunities and potential investment pockets

 Major countries in the region have been mapped according to their individual revenue contribution to the regional market

 The key drivers, restraints, and opportunities and their detailed impact analysis are elucidated in the study

 The profiles of key players along with their key strategic developments are enlisted in the report





KEY MARKET SEGMENTS

 By Type

 PLA

 PBAT

 PBS

 PHA

 Starch Blends

 Others



 By Application

 Packaging

 Agriculture

 Consumer Durable

 Textile

 Others

 By Region

 North America

o U.S.

o Canada

o Mexico

 Europe

o Germany

o France

o Spain

o Italy

o UK

o Rest of Europe

 Asia-Pacific

o China

o Japan

o India

o South Korea

o Australia

o Rest of Asia-Pacific

 LAMEA

o Brazil

o South Africa

o Saudi Arabia

o UAE

o Rest of LAMEA

More Info of Impact Covid19 @ https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com/report/covid-19-analysis/13336
CHICAGO, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the new market research report "Primary Cells Market by Origin (Human Primary Cells, Animal Primary Cells), Type (Hematopoietic, Dermatocytes, Gastrointestinal, Hepatocytes, Lung, Renal, Musculoskeletal, Heart), End User, Region - Global Forecast to 2025", published by MarketsandMarkets, the market is projected to reach USD 1,613 million by 2025 from USD 970 million in 2020, at a CAGR of 10.7%

Browse and in-depth TOC on "Primary Cells Market"

108 - Tables

34 - Figures

179 - Pages

Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=32854960

The Growth in this market is largely driven by the rising prevalence of cancer, increasing focus on the development of novel cancer therapies, and rising adoption of primary cells over cell lines. Emerging economies such as China and Japan are providing lucrative opportunities for the players operating in the Primary Cells Market.

The human primary cells segment accounted for the largest share of the Primary Cells Market, by origin segment, in 2019

Based on origin, the Primary Cells Market is segmented into human and animal primary cells. The human primary cells segment accounted for the largest share in the Primary Cells Market in 2019. The growing application areas of human stem cells and the rising incidence of cancer are the major factors driving the growth of this segment.

Hepatocytes segment to register the highest growth rate during the forecast period

Based on type, the Primary Cells Market is segmented into hematopoietic cells, dermatocytes, gastrointestinal cells, hepatocytes, lung cells, renal cells, heart cells, musculoskeletal cells, and other primary cells. In 2019, the hepatocytes segment accounted for the highest growth rate. This can be attributed to the increasing incidence of liver cancer & pediatric liver diseases across the globe, increasing research funding by key pharma players, and the emergence of new companies dedicated to liver therapeutics research.

The life science research companies segment accounted for the largest share of the Primary Cells Market, by end user segment, in 2019

Based on end-users, the Primary Cells Market is segmented into life science research companies and research institutes. In 2019, the life science research companies segment for the largest share in the Primary Cells Market. Increasing cancer research in life science research companies, the increasing number of R&D facilities, high adoption of primary cells in cell-based experiments, and the increasing investments of companies in cell-based research are the major factors driving the growth of this segment.

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North America is the largest regional market for Primary Cells Market

The Primary Cells Market is segmented into four major regions, namely, North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Rest of the World (RoW). In 2019, North America accounted for the largest share in the Primary Cells Market. The growth in the North American Primary Cells Market can be attributed to increasing funding for cancer research, growing life science research sector, expansion of the healthcare sector, and the high adoption of stem cell therapy & cell immunotherapies for the treatment of cancer and chronic diseases.

The major players operating in Primary Cells Market are Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc. (US), Merck KGaA (Germany), Lonza (Switzerland), Cell Biologics, Inc. (US), PromoCell GmbH (Germany), HemaCare Corporation (US), ZenBio, Inc. (US), STEMCELL Technologies, Inc. (Canada), Corning Incorporated (US), AllCells (US), American Type Culture Collection (US), Axol Bioscience Ltd. (UK), iXCells Biotechnologies (US), Neuromics (US), StemExpress (US), BioIVT (US), ScienCell Research Laboratories, Inc. (US), PPA Research Group, Inc. (US), Creative Bioarray (US), BPS Bioscience, Inc. (US), Epithelix Sarl (Switzerland), ReachBio LLC (US), AcceGen (US), Sekisui XenoTech, LLC (US), and Biopredic International (France).

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Tension is brewing at Atebubu-Amantin district of the Bono East region over the rejection by the Zongo Chief, Sufailu Moro Osman, to appear before the Atebubu Traditional Council over former President John Dramani Mahama 's visit to his palace.

The Zongo chief said the Atebubu Traditional Council has no constitutional right to restrict any person or group of persons movement in the country including that of the former presidents visit.

The Atebubu Traditional Council on Tuesday, September 29, 2020, summoned the Zongo Chief, Sufailu Moro Osman, to explain the circumstances surrounding Mr. Mahamas visit to his palace on September 17, 2020, at the blind side of the traditional leaders.

He is scheduled to appear before the Council at the Owusu Asare Palace on Friday, October 2.

A spokesperson for the Atebubu Traditional Council, Nana Boakye Yiadom, said they want to know under whose instruction and authority he welcomed Mr Mahama indicating that, Sanja Nanja knows very well that the Traditional Council has severed ties with the NDC.

But, however, speaking to this reporter on Thursday, October 1, Sufailu Moro Osman said the Atebubu Traditional Council has no right to dictate to me who I should receive at my palace. I dont owe them any explanation. They cannot dictate to me.

Ghana belongs to all Ghanaians; even President Nana Akufo Addo cannot restrict the movement of former president John Mahama to campaign at Akyem, the presidents home town. Why should anybody in the country says he will not allow somebody to a particular place? he quizzes.

Background

The former Member of Parliament for Atebubu-Amantin Constituency, Sanja Nanja, used some unprintable words against the Queen Mother of the Atebubu Traditional Council, Nana Afia Donyina II on Accra based Pink Pink FM in 2016.

The Traditional Council which felt that the actions of Sanja Nanja had brought the name and authority of the Traditional Council into disrepute performed the dreaded Kodwane ritual to eternally ban him from seeing any Chief in the area and from visiting the Owusu Asare Palace.

He was also banned from attending funerals and all social events organised within the jurisdiction of the Atebubu Traditional Council.
Hong Kongs leader has vowed to be fearless in facing down hostile foreign governments, and said the city must rely on Beijings strong backing in its recovery from the devastating economic impact of the coronavirus.

Speaking on Thursday at an official reception commemorating National Day, Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor also said the national security law, and the anti-government protests last year, showed a safe and stable society was a prerequisite for satisfying peoples aspirations for better lives, and democracy.

If we are to keep Hong Kong moving forward  [we must] correctly understand the relationship between one country and two systems, and act in accordance with the constitution and the Basic Law, she said.

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No matter how severe some foreign governments, holding double-standards, are going to level unjustified accusations, or aggressively impose further sanctions, I and my relevant colleagues will continue to discharge our duty to safeguard national security in accordance with the law, without fear or anxiety.

Lam also said the security law had helped to restore stability, even as authorities braced for potential chaos, after calls for radical acts and planned demonstrations on Thursday.

Police doubled their deployment to 6,000 officers to counter any illegal activities, while the Security Bureau said authorities were aware of online calls for protests in various districts and the use of violence, including attacking police stations, hurling petrol bombs and illegally blocking roads.

The Chinese flag is raised during the ceremony at Golden Bauhinia Square, outside the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai. Photo: Nora Tam

The citys economic recovery, meanwhile, would require new approaches, Lam said, and the continued support of the central government.

To help extract Hong Kong from our economic predicament, we must create new engines of economic growth with the continued support of the central government, she said.

Story continues

The [citys] government will participate more actively in the drafting of the outline of our countrys 14th five-year plan, and will seek the central governments support to strengthen and enhance Hong Kongs status as an international financial centre.

Lam also praised China for its efforts in curbing the coronavirus, and reviving the economy on the mainland.

With the exception of China, the epidemic situation around the globe shows no signs of abating, she said. [But] by vigorously suppressing and strictly controlling the epidemic, our country has already regained its economic momentum.

Lam described Chinas 3.2 per cent economic growth in the second quarter of this year as a rare bright spot among major economies.

As President Xi Jinping said on September 8, the fight against the epidemic was a race against time and a battle that required resolute courage and unwavering determination, she added.

Tables of four were set up inside the convention centre to abide by social-distancing rules. Photo: Nora Tam

Lam thanked Beijing for helping Hong Kong in fighting the pandemic, noting the central government had also supported the city when it was battered by regional or global financial crises in 1997 and 2008, as well as by the severe acute respiratory syndrome (Sars) outbreak in 2003.

Over the past three years, Beijing and Hong Kong had also signed 90 agreements to work more closely in terms of trade, commerce, and technological cooperation, she added.

The central government always gives us strong backing and helps maintain Hong Kongs prosperity and stability, whether Hong Kong is facing good times or bad, difficulties or opportunities, Lam said.

The reception was held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai, and in its Grand Hall, tables of four were set up to abide by social-distancing rules.

Guests were offered individually packaged sandwiches and biscuits as light refreshments, and also given a box of mooncakes and two flags as gifts.

Before the reception, Lam and hundreds of officials, politicians, diplomats and business representatives attended a flag-raising ceremony at Golden Bauhinia Square outside the exhibition centre.

Those who attended included Lams three predecessors: Tung Chee-hwa, Donald Tsang Yam-kuen, and Leung Chun-ying. Key mainland representatives, including liaison office chief Luo Huining, foreign ministry commissioner Xie Feng and Zheng Yanxiong, director of the central governments Office for Safeguarding National Security, were also there.

On October 1 last year, while the flag-raising ceremony was held at the square, officials and guests had to stay in the exhibition centre to watch it on television due to security concerns over the civil unrest that erupted that June, and had grown increasingly violent.

Earlier on Thursday, a group of four protesters led by former lawmaker Long Hair Leung Kwok-hung continued their annual ritual of marching from Southorn Centre to Golden Bauhinia Square, and called for the end of one-party rule, and pursuit of justice for the Tiananmen Square crackdown on June 4, 1989.

Arriving at around 7.45am, they also chanted for the release of 12 Hong Kong fugitives captured trying to flee to Taiwan by the Chinese coast guard last month.

Additional reporting by Danny Mok

More from South China Morning Post:

This article Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam vows to be fearless in face of foreign hostility, says city must rely on Beijing for its economic recovery first appeared on South China Morning Post

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Suspected Isil militants led away to be questioned by US-led coalition forces after surrendering, near Baghuz, in eastern Syria - Sam Tarling for The Telegraph

An American teenager taken by his parents to live in Islamic States caliphate in Syria as a minor has been charged alongside his father with terrorism offences, a decision experts have called troubling.

Emraan Ali and son Jihad Ali, 19, appeared in federal court in the US on Wednesday charged with material support for terrorist group Islamic State (IS).

Mr Ali, a US citizen born in Trinidad and Tobago, travelled with his wife and six children to Syria in 2015, according to an indictment filed at the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida.

The filing states that Mr Ali asked Jihad, at the time aged 14, if he wanted to join IS. Jihad was not sure if he could speak freely and go against the desires of his father, an FBI agent said Jihad later told him during interviews.

The father and son allegedly both received military and religious training and served as fighters for IS.

Jihad, who is facing up to 20 years in prison on charges of conspiracy to provide material support to the terror group, was given an AK-47 and assigned to the Anwar al-Awlaki brigade, named after the American-born al-Qaeda terrorist killed in a 2011 drone strike by the US.

Men, likely fighters, who have fled from Isil's last remaining territory in Syria, in March 2019 - Sam Tarling for The Telegraph

He told the FBI his father made him do the training, which he described as cool but also scary in parts, "and that he did not want to attend training because he was scared to be separated from his family."

The FBI says it has WhatsApp recordings Jihad sent to his mother that prove he took part in fighting.

Jihad claimed he was listening to radio traffic from the attacks, but was not directly involved in the fighting. He claimed the rhetoric he used in the messages was meant to impress other fighters near him.

Prosecutors also allege that Mr Ali forced his 14-year-old daughter to marry an older British IS fighter.

The two men were captured by US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces during the final days of the battle against IS in Baghouz, eastern Syria, in the spring of 2019.

Story continues

Mr Ali told the FBI during questioning last year that he did almost no fighting for IS, saying he got a medical discharge after experiencing heart problems after going on his first and only raid. He claimed he made a living doing construction work and other odd jobs for IS.

This announcement should serve as a warning to those who travel, or attempt to travel, to join and fight with ISIS, said John Brown, FBI Executive Assistant Director for National Security, of the charges. We remain vigilant in our efforts to prevent terrorism as well as hold terrorists, and those who provide support to terrorist organizations, accountable for their actions. We will continue to work closely with our US government and international partners to present a united front against global terrorism.

They claimed the men were the last two Americans to be repatriated to the US, however the Telegraph is aware of at least one other American who had her citizenship revoked and remains in Syria, as well as a number of dual nationals.

Thousands of foreign children were taken to Syria and Iraq by their parents, some of whom will have come of age in the caliphate.

How to treat returning child soldiers who served in ISs barbarous regime has become a thorny issue for Western countries.

Experts said the US Department of Justices decision risks stigmatising children who are brought to warzones as minors.

In the interim between when they were taken and when they were arrested, these boys have become adults, which means their protected status is lost, Mia Bloom, professor of Middle East studies at Georgia State University and author of Small Arms: Children and Terrorism, told the Telegraph. Its unfortunate and troubling that he should be held accountable as if he was an adult who chose to go."

She said it was not a surprise Jihad had mixed feelings about his time in the caliphate.

Some child soldiers Ive studied had positive experiences during that time and were left conflicted. They became one of a cohort, a band of brothers, she said. These children came from societies where minors are usually disempowered. In the caliphate, they were empowered as adults, even given the power to decide whether prisoners live or die. This can become a real impediment to reintegration.
SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Robertson Stephens Wealth Management, LLC ("Robertson Stephens") continues its national growth with the addition of Wealth Manager, Michael Ridgeway, in Seattle. Michael joins the firm as Managing Director and Wealth Manager and expands the firm's footprint into the Pacific Northwest in collaboration with current Wealth Manager, Erik Boe. Robertson Stephens now has approximately $1.5 billion in AUM across six office locations in San Francisco (CA), New York (NY), Sun Valley (ID), Holmdel (NJ), Marin County (CA) and Austin (TX).

For more information on Robertson Stephens, please visit https://rscapital.com/what-we-do/

"We are pleased that Michael has joined the Robertson Stephens team, bringing an abundance of investment experience and relationships in Seattle and the Northwest, a very important market for our firm," said Raj Bhattacharyya, CEO of Robertson Stephens. "Robertson Stephens has tripled its AUM in the last two years and continues to expand its advisory services through its differentiated client offering nationwide. Michael's strengths in solving complex client problems and expertise in developing robust wealth management solutions will be an invaluable asset as the firm extends into the Pacific Northwest region."

Michael brings 27 years of investment and capital markets experience to Robertson Stephens. Previously, he was a Founding Partner and Senior Investment Committee member at Steelhead Partners, a Seattle based hedge fund. He played key roles in developing portfolio strategies across a broad cross section of industries and developed strong relationships with limited partners and banking counterparties. He was also Vice President at NYSE listed Ragen Mackenzie, a firm specializing in research and investment banking with Northwest based companies. He earned his BA and MBA at Seattle University and serves on the board at Overlake Hospital Foundation.

"As a Seattle native, it is extremely exciting to further establish Robertson Stephens in the Pacific Northwest," said Erik Boe, Principal and Managing Director at Robertson Stephens. "We already have a large number of clients in the Seattle market, and I look forward to collaborating with Michael to further expand the firm's presence in the region."

"Robertson Stephens has assembled an institutional grade team of seasoned professionals who are dedicated to every aspect of client service excellence and I am honored to be joining them," said Michael Ridgeway, now Managing Director and Wealth Manager at Robertson Stephens. "The firm's vision to reinvent the wealth management experience for clients is especially attractive to me. I'm very excited to help build upon that vision for our clients in the Seattle area and across the Pacific Northwest."

About Robertson Stephens

Robertson Stephens Wealth Management, LLC is an independent SEC-registered investment advisor with offices in San Francisco (CA); New York (NY); Sun Valley (ID); Holmdel (NJ); Marin County (CA); and Austin (TX) that provides wealth management solutions for high-net-worth individuals and family offices nationwide. In 2018, with sponsorship from private equity firm Long Arc Capital, Robertson Stephens commenced operations with a core philosophy to serve high net worth clients. Robertson Stephens is committed to transparent advice, strong investment outcomes, sophisticated digital solutions, and high-quality client services. Assets under management reported is as of August 31, 2020. For more information please visit: https://www.rscapital.com.

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TORONTO - Google says it will pay publishers around the world about US$1 billion over the next three years for use of their content, the companys latest effort to relax tensions over its share of advertising sales that help fund the news industry.

The California-based company said Thursday that it has signed agreements for its news partnership program with nearly 200 publications in the U.K., Australia, Germany, Brazil, Argentina and Canada.

This financial commitment  our biggest to date  will pay publishers to create and curate high-quality content for a different kind of online news experience, CEO Sundar Pichai said in a blog post.

A similar message was posted on Google Canadas blog post, which identified initial two publishing partners  Village Media of Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., and Narcity Media of Toronto, both primarily online publishers.

Google Canada said Thursday that it is still negotiating with other publishers and the new product wont be accessible in Canada until theres a critical mass of content.

The chairman of News Media Canada, which represents newspapers and digital-native news outlets of various sizes, said Google had taken a step in the right direction.

It remains to be seen what the details are and, of course, thats very important, said Bob Cox, who is publisher of the Winnipeg Free Press and chairman of News Media Canada.

News publishers believe their content has a certain value and well have to see what value Google puts on it.

For its part, Google has said previously that it recognizes the content has value to attract audiences but so does its ability to direct audiences and advertizers to publishers.

Daniel Bernhard, executive director for Friends of Canadian Broadcasting, said that US$333 million per year for the entire world is a small amount given the value of the content.

These payments should not be optional and Google cannot be allowed to set the price unilaterally, Bernhard said in an email statement.

The Trudeau government said last week that it wants to change how the tech giants do business in Canada. It mentioned changes to corporate taxes as well as payments to Canadian creators, producers and distributors.

Googles News Showcase, launched Thursday in Brazil and Germany, features story panels that let publishers package stories with features like timelines.

It will appear first on Google News on smartphones usings Googles Android operating system, then phones using Apple iOS, before it is rolled out to Google Discover and Search.

The publications that have signed up include Germanys Der Spiegel and Stern and Brazils Folha de S.Paulo.

The funding builds on a news licensing program announced by Google in June, as it seeks to defuse tensions with the beleaguered news industry.

But the European Publishers Council said Thursday that Google moved to stave off legislation and government action.

Many are quite cynical about Googles perceived strategy, said Angela Mills Wade, executive director of the council.

The councils members include German publisher Axel Springer and the British unit of media tycoon Rupert Murdochs News Corp., which have been fighting a years-long battle to get the tech giants to pay for news stories appearing on their platforms.

The pressure has been rising in a number of countries.

Australias government, which appears further ahead than Canada in its legislative agenda, is drafting a law to make Facebook and Google pay the countrys media companies for the news content they use by early October. Facebook has responded by threatening to block Australian news content rather than pay for it.

In France, Google has refused to show snippets of some stories as it fights government demands for license fees to publishers, as required by a recent European Union directive.

 with files from CPs David Paddon in Toronto and APs Kelvin Chan in London, England.
ATLANTIC CITY  The Black vote has been taken advantage of for profit and white interests, a city activist said in a Monday letter in which he resigned from the Atlantic County Democratic Committee.

Steven Young, 60, who has championed a Black agenda while organizing and participating in several Black Lives Matter protests in the resort in recent months, sent the letter to committee Chairman Michael Suleiman. The letter of resignation from the committees executive board goes on to argue that Mayor Marty Small Sr. has been working to suppress the Black vote.

I wish Steve well, Suleiman said.

Small did not respond to a request for comment.

Young was arrested in July after organizing a demonstration aiming to shut the city down. It was one of many protests throughout South Jersey in the wake of the May 25 death of George Floyd in Minneapolis while in police custody.

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+2 Atlantic City protest organizer says event is about equal opportunity ATLANTIC CITY  The organizer of a Saturday Black Lives Matter protest who said he wanted to

Last month, City Council voted to begin the process of removing Young from his seat on the Citizens Advisory Board and as chairman of the Planning Board. The two positions are appointed and unpaid.
Experts in Japan have devised a simple way to glean more detailed information out of standard medical imaging scans. A research team made up of atomic physicists and nuclear medicine experts at the University of Tokyo and the National Institute of Radiological Sciences (NIRS) has designed a timer that can enable positron emission tomography (PET) scanners to detect the oxygen concentration of tissues throughout patients' bodies. This upgrade to PET scanners may lead to a future of better cancer treatment by quickly identifying parts of tumors with more aggressive cell growth.

"Patients' experience in this future PET scan will be the same as now. Medical teams' experience of conducting the scan will also be the same, just with more useful information at the end," said nuclear medicine physician Dr. Miwako Takahashi from the NIRS, a co-author of the research publication in Communication Physics.

"This was a quick project for us, and I think it should also become a very fast medical advance for real patients within the next decade. Medical device companies can apply this method very economically, I hope," said Assistant Professor Kengo Shibuya from the University of Tokyo Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, first author of the publication.

PET scans

The positrons that PET scans are named for are the positively charged antimatter forms of electrons. Due to their tiny size and extremely low mass, positrons pose no danger in medical applications. Positrons produce gamma rays, which are electromagnetic waves similar to X-rays, but with shorter wavelengths.

When receiving a PET scan, a patient receives a small amount of very weakly radioactive liquid, often composed of modified sugar molecules, usually injected into their blood. The liquid circulates for a short period of time. Differences in blood flow or metabolism affect how the radioactivity is distributed. The patient then lies in a large, tube-shaped PET scanner. As the radioactive liquid emits positrons that then decay into gamma rays, rings of gamma-ray detectors map the locations of gamma rays emitted from the patient's body.

Doctors already request PET scans when they need information about not just the structure, but also the metabolic function of tissues inside the body. Detecting oxygen concentration using the same PET scan would add another layer of useful information about the body's function.

Oxygen concentration measured in nanoseconds

The life of a positron is a choice of two very short paths, both of which begin when a positron is "born" as it is released from the radioactive PET scan liquid. On the shorter path, the positron immediately collides with an electron and produces gamma rays. On the slightly longer path, the positron initially transforms into another type of particle called a positronium, which then decays into gamma rays. Either way, the lifetime of a positron inside a human body is not longer than 20 nanoseconds, or one fifty millionth of a second (1/50,000,000 second).

"The outcome is the same, but the lifetime is not. Our proposal is to distinguish the lifetimes of positrons using a PET scan with a timer so that we can map oxygen concentrations inside patients' bodies," said Shibuya.

Shibuya and his colleagues developed a life expectancy chart for positrons using a miniaturized PET scanner to time the formation and decay of positrons in liquids with known concentrations of oxygen.

The research team's new results reveal that when oxygen concentration is high, the shorter path is more likely. Researchers predict that their technique will be able to detect the absolute oxygen concentration in any tissue of a patient's body based on the lifetime of positrons during a PET scan.

Detecting the lifetime of positrons is possible using the same gamma-ray detectors that PET scans already use. The research team predicts that the majority of work to transfer this research from the lab to the bedside will be on upgrading gamma-ray detectors and software so that the gamma-ray detectors can record not just location, but accurate time data as well.

"It should not be much of a cost increase for development of instruments," said Professor Taiga Yamaya, a co-author of the research publication and leader of the Imaging Physics Group at the NIRS.

Enhanced PET scans for more effective cancer treatment

Medical experts have long understood that low oxygen concentrations in tumors can impede cancer treatment for two reasons: First, a low oxygen level in a tumor is often caused by insufficient blood flow, which is more common in fast-growing, aggressive tumors that are harder to treat. Second, low oxygen levels make radiation less effective because the desired cancer cell-killing effects of radiation treatment are achieved in part by the radiation energy converting oxygen present in the cells into DNA-damaging free radicals.

Thus, detecting the concentration of oxygen in body tissues would inform medical experts how to more effectively attack tumors inside patients.

"We imagine targeting more intense radiation treatment to the aggressive, low-oxygen concentration areas of a tumor and targeting lower-intensity treatment to other areas of the same tumor to give patients better outcomes and less side effects," said Takahashi.

Shibuya says that the team of researchers was inspired to put into practice a theoretical model about the ability for positrons to reveal oxygen concentration published last year by researchers in Poland. The project went from concept to publication in just a few months even with COVID-19 pandemic-related restrictions.

Shibuya and colleagues are now aiming to expand their work to find any other medical details that may be revealed by the lifetime of a positron.

###

Research Article

Kengo Shibuya, Haruo Saito, Fumihiko Nishikido, Miwako Takahashi, and Taiga Yamaya. 2020. Oxygen sensing ability of positronium atom for tumor hypoxia imaging. Communication Physics. DOI: 10.1038/s42005-020-00440-z

Related Links

Saito Lab: http://positron.c.u-tokyo.ac.jp/

Yamaya Lab: https://www.nirs.qst.go.jp/usr/medical-imaging/imaging-physics/index-en.html#Introduction

Graduate School of Arts and Sciences: https://www.c.u-tokyo.ac.jp/eng_site/

Pawel Moskal et al. paper theorizing about the interactions between positrons and oxygen: https://doi.org/10.1038/s42254-019-0078-7

Research contact

Assistant Professor Kengo Shibuya

Institute of Physics, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, University of Tokyo, Komaba 3-8-1, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-8902, JAPAN

Tel: +81-03-5454-6540

Email: shibuken@youshi.c.u-tokyo.ac.jp

Press officer contact

Ms. Caitlin Devor

Division for Strategic Public Relations, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 133-8654, JAPAN

Tel: +81-080-9707-8178

E-mail: press-releases.adm@gs.mail.u-tokyo.ac.jp

About the University of Tokyo

The University of Tokyo is Japan's leading university and one of the world's top research universities. The vast research output of some 6,000 researchers is published in the world's top journals across the arts and sciences. Our vibrant student body of around 15,000 undergraduate and 15,000 graduate students includes over 4,000 international students. Find out more at http://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/ or follow us on Twitter at @UTokyo_News_en.
Shocked by the alleged gang-rape and murder of a 19-year-old Dalit woman in Hathras district of Uttar Pradesh and her forcible cremation subsequently, a Lucknow bench of the Allahabad high court on Thursday summoned top government officials to the court.

IMAGE: A child holds a candle and placard during a protest over Hathras case in Kolkata. Photograph: ANI Photo

A division bench of justices Rajan Roy and Jaspreet Singh ordered Uttar Pradesh additional chief secretary, state police chief and an additional director general of police to appear before it on October 12 to explain the incident.

Taking suo moto cognisance of the case, which has triggered widespread outrage, the bench also ordered Hathras district magistrate and superintendent of police to appear with to apprise the court of various aspects of the case, including the ongoing probe into it.

The court, which appeared especially upset over the police cremating the teen's body overnight allegedly forcibly in Hathras without her parent's consent, asked officials to come prepared with all the relevant material and documents to apprise the court of their versions of the incident.

The incidents which took place after the death of the victim on September 29, 2020 leading up to her cremation, as alleged, have shocked our conscience. Therefore, we are taking suo moto cognizance of the same, the bench said in its order.

The bench also asked the late teen's parent to come to the court to apprise it of their versions of the incident and ordered the Hathras district administration to arrange for their travel to the court and facilitate their appearance before it.

In a replication of the December 2012 Nirbhaya case horrors, the Dalit teen was allegedly sexually assaulted by four men on September 14 in a Hathras village and admitted to the AMU's Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and Hospital in Aligarh in a critical condition.

She was on Monday referred to Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital in an extremely critical condition with spinal injuries, paralysis and cuts in her tongue and died on early Tuesday, triggering widespread outrage, protests and calls for justice.

The Hathras police, however, took her body to her native district and allegedly cremated her overnight without her parent's consent.

The judges said they were inclined to examine whether there had been a gross violation of the Fundamental Rights of the deceased and her family members and if the state authorities acted oppressively, high-headedly and illegally to violate these rights.

The rights of individual citizens in the country and the state especially that of the poor and the downtrodden such as the family members of the deceased victim and the deceased herself are paramount.

"The Courts of Law are under a bounden duty to see that the said rights available under the Constitution are protected at all costs and the state does not, in its misplaced endeavour for political or administrative reasons, transgress the limits of its powers to encroach and violate such rights, especially in the case of poor and the weak, observed the bench, while summoning UP government officials.

If it is found to be so, then, this would be a case where accountability will not only have to be fixed but for future guidance, but also stern action would be required, warned a shocked bench

We would like to examine if the economic and social status of the deceased's family has been taken advantage of by the state authorities to oppress and deprive them of their Constitutional rights, the bench said.

The bench also expressed its intention to monitor the ongoing probe into the case by an SIT set up by the UP government and possibly transfer the case to some independent investigation agency, if the probe result does not inspire confidence.

We have also pondered that an SIT has been constituted by the state government in the matter. We leave it open for our consideration on future dates, as to the necessity of monitoring the investigation or getting it conducted through an independent agency as per law, the bench said.

The bench took cognisance of the case on the basis of news reports in various national dailies and TV news channels and also asked them to assist the court in the adjudication of the matter by submitting their news source material in a pen drive or a compact disc.

Besides putting the state government's officials on notice, the bench also asked its registry to communicate the order to the state advocate general and chief standing counsel to respond in the matter.

The bench also appointed senior advocate J N Mathur and Abhinav Bhattacharya as amicus curiae to assist the court in the matter.

The bench began its order with a couplet written by Mahatma Gandhi and also quoted Oscar Wilde, who said, "Death must be so beautiful. To lie in the soft brown earth with the grasses wearing above one's head, and listen to silence. To have no yesterday, and no tomorrow. To forget time, to forget life, to be at peace."

The court, however, lamented that the death of the Hathras teen had none of these poetic elements in it.
SAN MATEO, Calif., Oct. 01, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Imperva, Inc., (@Imperva) the cybersecurity leader whose mission is to protect data and all paths to it, announced it has entered into an agreement to acquire jSonar, the leader in modern database security. The acquisition will pioneer a bold new approach to securing data through all paths, including on-premises, cloud, multi-cloud and Database-as-a-Service (DBaaS), delivering an integrated approach across data and applications.



The evolution of modern data architecture has worked against security professionals, making securing data more difficult at every turn. Scale and complexity of data assets have grown exponentially and security teams are faced with the difficult task of expeditiously securing diverse environments while lacking estate-wide analytics and control. Combining jSonars ability to quickly secure data stores no matter what kind or where they live, with Impervas leadership in app and data security, will spearhead a fundamentally new approach to data security to help enterprises address todays and tomorrows needs.

Enterprises have shifted focus from compliance to data security while demanding lower costs and more measurable benefits, says Pam Murphy, CEO of Imperva. This combination of two uniquely qualified trailblazers will signal a new approach to data security that puts an emphasis on usability and value with sustained and complete coverage for three initiatives organizations need to implement  security, compliance and privacy.

Imperva Data Security discovers databases on the network, classifies sensitive data, detects database vulnerabilities and applies security controls to data access. jSonars platform simplifies the process of establishing universal security, compliance and privacy controls, enabling integration with all data repositories across any on-premises and cloud environment from within one platform, while alleviating high costs and development efforts thanks to built-in automation and data-centric playbooks.

While data grows at an exponential rate, budgets do not. Our mission has always been to develop solutions that solve the full-range of challenges in data security in a way that is efficient, simple to achieve, and provides tangible value beyond compliance, says Ron Bennatan, CTO and Co-founder, jSonar. We are thrilled to join forces with Imperva, who have been ushering in a new age of data protection in order to make security available to everyone.

Ron Bennatan - a 25 year data security veteran and founder of both jSonar and DAM provider Guardium - will join to lead the Imperva Data Security business, comprising both jSonar and Imperva data security product lines. This combination will form a large development organization dedicated to data security. Additionally, jSonars analytics and Security Orchestration, Automation and Response (SOAR) platform will be used throughout the Imperva solution stack.

As data management and protection use cases continue to grow in complexity, variety, and scale, organizations increasingly have to choose between best-of-breed yet disjointed security tools and an integrated suite, says Alexei Balaganski, Lead Analyst, KuppingerCole Analysts AG. The potential of Imperva and jSonar represents a comprehensive integrated approach to securing data both through its complete life span and across a broad range of heterogeneous IT platforms, which entitles customers to get return from existing investments while gaining consolidated analytics, proactive protection and quick response capabilities.

The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including receipt of required regulatory clearance, and is expected to close mid-October 2020.

Additional Resources

About jSonar

jSonar helps customers solve today's complex and costly approach to database security with an all-in-one platform that rapidly delivers comprehensive security and compliance for any database system across any on-premise or cloud environment. jSonars software platform delivers a unified view of all database activity, unlocking high-value, actionable security analytics and delivering out-of-the box functionality for reducing and preventing database risks and operationalizing security controls. jSonar is trusted by some of the largest finance, insurance and healthcare organizations in the world to accelerate adoption of new databases, reduce costs, and move beyond compliance to achieve real data security. Learn more at www.jsonar.com.

About Imperva

Imperva is the cybersecurity leader whose mission is to protect data and all paths to it. Imperva protects the data of over 6,200 customers from cyber attacks through all stages of their digital transformation. Imperva provides application and data security solutions to help organizations implement and sustain security, compliance and privacy initiatives.



 2020 Imperva, Inc. All rights reserved. Imperva is a trademark of Imperva, Inc. and its subsidiaries.

Media Contact

Imperva

Diana Wong

diana.wong@imperva.com




(@FahadShabbir)

The European Union is unlikely interested in the situation in Belarus escalating into full-blown chaos, Russia's permanent representative to the bloc, Vladimir Chizhov, told Sputnik in an interview

BRUSSELS (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 01st October, 2020) The European Union is unlikely interested in the situation in Belarus escalating into full-blown chaos, Russia's permanent representative to the bloc, Vladimir Chizhov, told Sputnik in an interview.

Belarus plunged into protests after the August 9 election, when the opposition challenged incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko's victory. The EU has since rejected the election results and refused to recognize Lukashenko as legitimate president. Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, who came in second, is now rallying support from European leaders while being in self-exile in Lithuania.

When asked whether the EU is trying to heat up the situation in Belarus, Chizhov replied: "On the one hand, [they] hit it up, but, on the other hand, complete destabilization unlikely meets their interests."

Speaking about the Nord Stream 2 prospects, the diplomat expressed confidence that the project would be completed, despite the United States' push for Europe to abandon it in light of the alleged poisoning of Russian opposition figure Alexey Navalny.
Vote-by-mail ballots are shown in U.S. Postal Service sorting trays at the King County Elections headquarters in Renton, Wash., on Aug. 5, 2020. (Ted S. Warren/AP Photo)

Democrats Backpedal on Voting by Mail

After initially singing the praises of voting by mail in the Nov. 3 elections, some Democratic Party leaders are reluctantly backing away from the idea as enthusiasm for that method of voting fades.

Pennsylvanias Democratic Lt. Gov. John Fetterman blames Republicans for the declining interest in voting by mail, accusing them of exaggerating problems associated with sending ballots through the mail.

President Donald Trump, a Republican, has been especially vocal in his criticism of voting by mail, asserting that its not secure and that ballots often get misdirected or fail to be delivered.

Some observers are concerned about whether a government agency, the U.S. Postal Service, long-criticized for its lack of efficiency, can handle an unprecedented onslaught of mail-in-ballots.

In addition, experts say voting-by-mail is fraught with problems. That method of voting gives wrongdoers greater opportunities for fraud compared to in-person balloting, they say.

The bipartisan Commission on Federal Election Reform, chaired by former President Jimmy Carter and former Secretary of State James A. Baker III, found in 2005 that absentee ballots remain the largest source of potential voter fraud and that vote-buying schemes are far more difficult to detect when citizens vote by mail.

Reports of widespread problems with voting by mail may be forcing Democrats to change their tune.

In the 2020 primaries, in excess of 550,000 mail-in and absentee ballots were disqualified, much more than four years ago, The Atlantic reports. The problem is especially severe in some swing states. More than 23,000 mailed ballots were rejected in the presidential primaries in Wisconsinmore than Donald Trumps margin of victory in that state in 2016. Deep-blue districts have had the same problem: New York City alone threw out more than 84,000 ballots this primary season.

Now party officials, mostly Democrats, are reportedly worried that too many people will vote on Election Day and overwhelm the systems in place, leading to unsafe crowding in the pandemic era and long lines.

Im getting people saying, Screw it. I dont want to vote by mail anymore. I want to do it in person. Thats what [Republicans] want, Fetterman told The Intercept.

Its truly diabolical. And I choose that word very deliberately. Its diabolical. They know that youve got to bring everything: your ballot, the envelope, everything. If you dont, you cant vote. And most people dont know that you can demand a provisional ballot. And if you do, thats going to blow up the lines and create chaos.

Quentin James, founder and president of the Collective PAC, told The New York Times that the GOP is trying to suppress voter turnout.

Im concerned with Donald Trump and the Republican Partys attempt to limit votes, said James.

Theyre afraid of the almost 5 million African-Americans who didnt vote in 2016 coming out and voting.

His group reportedly intends to spend $7 million in large cities in battleground states to get out the black vote, focusing on in-person voting.

Interest in voting by mail has been sliding in recent months.

A Pew Research poll in springtime found broad bipartisan support for voting by mail with almost 3 out of 4 Americans favoring universal access to absentee ballots, according to NPR.

An NPR/PBS NewsHour/Marist poll released Sept. 18 found that among registered voters, 35 percent say they will vote by mail or absentee, down from 50 percent in May. Broken down by party affiliation, thats 50 percent of Democrats, 25 percent of Republicans, and 32 percent of independents. These figures are lower than in May, when 11 percent more Democrats said they would vote by mail or absentee. In May, the figures were 17 percent higher among Republicans, and 32 percent higher among Independents.

In the poll, half of voters specifically said they would vote in person on election day. The partisan breakdown is that 56 percent of Republicans said they would vote in person on Election Day, compared to 38 percent of Democrats and 3 percent from the other category.

A Citizen Data poll from earlier the same month generated similar findings. Among all likely voters, 35 percent plan to vote by mail. Of those planning to vote in person, 34 percent plan to vote early in person, and 60 percent plan to vote in person on election day.

The poll indicates Democrats are twice as likely to vote by mail as Republicans in the approaching election. Of Democrats, 61 percent intend to vote by mail, compared to 30 percent of Republicans.
The Afghan government and Taliban negotiators are nearing a compromise on a key sticking point that has stalled peace talks in Doha, a senior Afghan official said on September 30.

Talks started in the Qatari capital on September 12, but an optimistic beginning was marred by ongoing violence and discussions got bogged down by disagreements over which interpretation of Islam should be used to frame laws in a post-conflict Afghanistan.

The Taliban, which is a Sunni hard-line movement, had insisted on strict adherence to the Hanafi school of Sunni Islamic jurisprudence, but government negotiators worried this could be used to discriminate against the predominantly Shi'ite Hazara community and other religious minorities.

Abdullah Abdullah, chairman of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation that is overseeing Kabul's peace push, said in an interview with AFP that after several small-group meetings in Doha, the issue had been resolved "to a large extent."

Both sides have provisionally agreed "to recognise the principal issue of Hanafi's role without any discrimination to Shi'ite communities or minorities, so ... the compromise is around that," Abdullah said.

Resolution of the issue means one less obstacle as negotiators try to draw up an agenda for talks, which could take years to complete.

Another stumbling block has emerged: the extent to which the Taliban recognizes the legitimacy of the Kabul government under a future deal.

The insurgents have always insisted President Ashraf Ghani's government is a U.S.-enabled "puppet" regime. In the deal the Taliban cut with Washington in February, the group did not have to recognize Kabul.

Similarly, the Taliban now wants any future peace deal to exclude overt references to the government and instead to frame the agreement as some sort of "intra-Afghan" accord.

Without providing details, Abdullah said the two sides appeared to have made progress on the issue.

He said that after a slow start, the negotiating teams were now "getting along quite well and this latest impasse, hopefully we will overcome it soon."

Abdullah was speaking in Islamabad as he finished a three-day visit to Pakistan.

The South Asian nation has had dismal relations with neighboring Afghanistan, with Kabul frequently accusing Islamabad of harboring Taliban fighters and funding the insurgency.

Pakistan denies such support, but has said its influence over the Taliban encouraged the insurgents to hold talks with Washington, which paved the way for current peace talks.

"I leave Pakistan with positive feelings and positive senses," Abdullah said, adding he had asked Pakistani authorities to tell the Taliban to reduce violence, which is flaring across Afghanistan as the Taliban refuses to entertain a cease-fire.

"My sense was this would be communicated publicly and in other ways," he said.

Meanwhile Zalmay Khalilzad, the U.S. envoy who brokered Washington's deal with the Taliban in February, was due to arrive in Doha later on September 30 to "express U.S. support for a negotiated settlement that brings an end to 40 years of war," the U.S. State Department said.
The Kasapreko Company Limited (KCL) has unveiled a multi-million-dollar Water, Juice, and Soft Drinks factory at Tanoso in the Ashanti Region as part of governments flagship 1-District-1-Factory initiative.



The multipurpose factory which is set up on a 10,000-square metre property, has the capacity to produce 35,000 bottles per hour of juices and non-alcoholic drinks, and 15,000 bottles per hour of water, working at full capacity.



The factory will employ 300 people directly, and also generate some 3,000 indirect jobs through the supply chain.



Speaking at the launch, Chairman of the Kasapreko Group, Dr. Kwabena Adjei, expressed profound gratitude to the government of Ghana for the 1D1F initiative which has assisted Kasapreko to access a $25 million Stanbic Bank loan for the construction of the factory.



I want to use this occasion to congratulate President and his Government for the ideation of the 1D1F program aimed at creating jobs for Ghanaians through the setting up of factories and industries which will in turn move the country towards greater industrialization, he said.



According to him, the factory which is part of the governments flagship 1-District-1-Factory initiative was equipped with world class machinery that would contribute to the production of high-quality brands of beverages in different specialized packaging formats that could compete favourably with international brands.



Indeed, Kasapreko appreciates its association with the Government of Ghana on the One District, One Factory initiative and finds it timely to have been supported by the Government to promote a Ghanaian owned business. Government has indeed gone beyond making pronouncements on the promotion of made-in-Ghana goods to supporting it with actions, Kasapreko family is happy to have been a part of this transformation agenda, he stressed.



Dr. Adjei further indicated that, for the private sector to thrive there is the need for government to introduce policies that will help create an enabling environment for growth.



The private sector is the engine of growth for every economy, but the private sector can only thrive in an enabling environment anchored by good growth driven policies by Government, he said.



He added There is the need for more collaboration between the private sector and Government to drive the growth we all desire. And I pray that the private sector is refined, motivated and remunerated to the greatest possible extent.



For his part, Chief Executive Officer at Kasapreko, Mr. Richard Adjei, commended government for showing commitment in supporting the private sector through the 1-District-1-Factory initiative.



For those who do not believe the 1D1F program is real, please note Parliament has approved a 5-year tax waiver for Kasapreko worth 28million dollars on machinery and raw materials because of 1D1F, he said.



According to him, the decision to have a subsidiary factory in Ashanti Region was strategic as it would serve the Middle and Northern belts and also relieve pressure on the main factory in Accra.



The factory will not only be serving the Ashanti Region, Bono, Ahafo Region, and the Northern part of the country but also export to Burkina and Cote d'Ivoire, He said.



He added We want to add our voice to the call on promoting locally manufactured products, as these have proven to be of high quality, many times than the imported ones.



Set up three decades ago at Nungua in Accra, Kasapreko is today, the largest producer of carbonated soft drinks and alcohol in the country, and boasts of the most diverse product range for variant consumer preferences.

Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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.

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George Floyd's death in the hands of Minneapolis police led to nationwide protests and pledges from some police to cut back on heavy-handed crowd control tactics. But that message didn't make it to Floyd's burial service, where local and federal law enforcement forces were prepared to use "deadly force" if they encountered civil unrest, documents obtained by Vice News reveal.

"As a horse-drawn carriage took Floyd's body to its final resting place" earlier this year in Pearland, Texas, "at least six 'sniper teams' were in place on rooftops and authorized to open fire if the situation spiraled out of control," Vice reports via planning records. Pearland officials also brought in U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents to the city to monitor the situation. That included members of the tactical BORTAC unit equipped with "military-grade firepower," Vice writes.

The documents spell out the conditions under which certain types of officers could take action. "Officers in soft uniforms" were ready to monitor to "large, peacefully assembling" crowds, while BORTAC was "geared up ready to deploy" if "verbal aggressive language and empty water bottles" were seen. "Deadly force is authorized anytime," the planning records concluded. All of this was done in anticipation of tens of thousands of mourners showing up to the service, the records show. Just a few hundred arrived.

Ben Crump, an attorney for the Floyd family, said he and the family didn't know about the sniper teams and other oversight. Pearland police spokesperson contradicted the documents in saying the sniper teams were brought on in anticipation of "protests from Second Amendment groups or counter-protesters to those groups." Read more at Vice News.

More stories from theweek.com

For the first time, Trump faces the consequences of his actions

Trump aides reportedly think he'll 'face a harsh judgment from voters' after COVID-19 diagnosis

Trump is reportedly experiencing 'cold-like symptoms' and has appeared 'lethargic'


Shia LaBeouf has reportedly been charged with battery and theft following an altercation with a man over the summer.

According to TMZ, law enforcement sources said the actor, 34, got into a verbal argument with a man in June in Los Angeles.

An insider told the website that after the heated exchange was over, Shia took off the man's cap and left the scene with it.

Charges: Shia LaBeouf, 34, has reportedly been charged with battery and theft following an alteraction with a man over the summer (pictured in October 2019)

It is unclear what led to the altercation however neither Shia nor the other man are said to have sustained any major injuries.

The man is said to have filed a police report with cops determining that Shia was the aggressor in the incident.

Shia was reportedly charged with battery and petty theft by L.A. City Attorney earlier this month, which are both misdemeanors.

MailOnline has contacted a representative for Shia LaBeouf for comment.

Report: According to TMZ, law enforcement sources have said the actor got into a verbal altercation with a man in June in Los Angeles (pictured in November 2019)

Shia has had run-ins with the law in the past and was previously arrested for a druken scuffle in New York City in 2017.

He was also arrested in the same year for disorderly conduct in Savannah, Georgia when he became aggressive towards a police officer he had asked for a cigarette.

In 2014, he was arrested after disturbing a performance of the musical Cabaret on Broadway in New York.

He pled guilty to a disorderly conduct violation and he then received outpatient care for alcohol addiction.

Argument: An insider told the website that after the heated argument was over, Shia took off the man's cap and left the scene with it (pictured in February 2020)

That same year, Shia spoke to Interview magazine and admitted: 'I've been going through an existential crisis.'

According to the star his behaviour and drug and alcohol use, as well as acting, has been his way to escape.

He said: 'I've been a runner my whole life, running from myself. Whether to movies or drinking and drugging or f***ing calamity or whatever it is, I've always been running.'

At the time, Shia credit his film Fury, in which he plays a soldier who relies on his faith to get him through WWII, for helping him look at changing his ways.

Altercation: The man is said to have filed a police report with cops determining that Shia was the aggressor in the incident (pictured in August 2019)

He said: 'I found God doing Fury. I became a Christian man, and not in a f***ing bullshit way - in a very real way.'

More recently, the actor dropped out of Olivia Wilde's Don't Worry, Darling earlier this month over scheduling conflicts, according to Deadline.

He was replaced by Harry Styles, who joins Dakota Johnson, Florence Pugh and Chris Pine in the cast of the psychological thriller.
A police and crime commissioner has asked the Home Office to apologise to residents over an 'impractical decision' to house migrants at a military barracks in west Wales.

Dafydd Llywelyn said there had been a 'lack of planning, communication, consultation and information' over the use of the camp in the coastal village of Penally, near Tenby.

Mr Llywelyn, the police and crime commissioner for Dyfed-Powys, described the move as 'totally unacceptable' and said it showed a 'lack of respect' to residents in Penally and the surrounding area, as well as local services.

A group of demonstrators welcomed asylum seekers who are being housed in an army barracks in Penally, near Tenby, west Wales following protests by far right groups

The first group of 250 asylum seekers aged between 18 and 35 have moved into the converted barracks. The following day a 50-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of a public order offence during a demonstration

'There has been no clarity on the strategic plan and insufficient engagement to ensure we support and safeguard these vulnerable individuals whilst also addressing local concerns, and I am now demanding that the Home Office apologises to the local residents for their lack of respect,' he said.

On September 21, the first group of up to 250 male asylum seekers, aged between 18 and 35, were moved into the converted barracks.

A number of protests took place at the site, with a 50-year-old man arrested on suspicion of public order offences on September 22.

Anti-racism protesters stood outside the camp with welcome placards the following day.

The Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford has asked the Home Secretary Priti Patel to provide adequate resources so the additional people do not overwhelm local services

Last week, First Minister Mark Drakeford told the Welsh Parliament that the Welsh Government had not been given a say in the decision to use the site for migrants.

He said a written request to Home Secretary Priti Patel for assurances that funding would be provided to the area to help deal with resulting demands on its services was met by a 'utter blanket refusal'.

And on Tuesday, Helen Mary Jones, Plaid Cymru MS for Mid and West Wales, told the Senedd that a 'strongly worded' letter had been written by the local health board and county council, supported by local representatives.

She said this raised 'grave concerns' about the Home Office's decision, particularly regarding the ability to provide appropriate support to those being housed at the camp.

Mr Llywelyn said he had attended several multi-agency meetings, involving police, the local authority, health board and Welsh Government, over the past two weeks.

'It has been left to our local agencies including the police to pick up the pieces of this impractical Home Office decision and I am therefore asking for a direct apology,' he added.

'This way of working is not acceptable.

'I will continue to involve myself and be proactive in these developments to support the local community of Penally and Pembrokeshire and ensure these vulnerable individuals are safeguarded and provided with adequate services.'
Zelensky says the issue of providing Ukrainians with a high-quality vaccine is especially important.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said Ukraine is interested in coordinating efforts with China in the fight against the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic

In an interview with the Chinese Xinhua news agency, the text of which is quoted by the press service of the President's Office, Zelensky said the bilateral contacts between Ukraine and China were this year significantly limited as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. At the same time, the two countries effectively cooperated in fighting off the common challenge.

Read alsoRada goes on quarantine over COVID-19 spike among legislatorsThe president expressed gratitude to the Chinese government for the humanitarian aid provided to Ukraine, assistance in air lift of medical supplies, as well as the return of Ukrainian citizens from China.

"Thousands of test kits, face masks, goggles, gloves and other personal protective equipment were sent to hospitals at the onset of the pandemic in Ukraine this spring. This saved many Ukrainians. We are especially grateful to Chinese companies, NGOs, provincial people's governments and ordinary citizens for providing our country with much-needed and timely aid. This expression of friendly support is especially important and valuable for us in these difficult times," he said.

According to Zelensky, Ukraine is interested in further coordinating efforts with China to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic fallout.

"The issue of providing Ukrainians with a high-quality vaccine is especially important," he added.

COVID-19 in Ukraine: Background
Kentucky AG to release grand jury recordings in Breonna Taylor case after juror files motion

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Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron said Monday that he will release the recording of secret grand jury proceedings that considered charges against three white Louisville police officers in the fatal shooting of Breonna Taylor inside her apartment in March.

The decision came after an unnamed juror, who argued that Cameron misrepresented the grand jurys deliberations in his announcement last week, filed a court motion seeking a release of the recording as well as permission to speak publicly to set the record straight.

Cameron said in a statement published by CBS News that even though the grand jury proceedings are meant to be secret, he would comply with a judges order to release the recording by Wednesday.

"The Grand Jury is meant to be a secretive body," Cameron said. "It's apparent that the public interest in this case isn't going to allow that to happen."

The juror argued that Cameron did not give the grand jury the option of indicting the two of the officers involved in Taylors fatal shooting.

This is something where the juror is not seeking any fame, any acclaim, any money, Kevin M. Glogower, the jurors lawyer, told The New York Times.

On Monday, Cameron said that his team presented jurors with a "thorough and complete case.

Our prosecutors presented all of the evidence, even though the evidence supported that Sergeant [Jonathan] Mattingly and Detective [Myles] Cosgrove were justified in their use of force after having been fired upon by Kenneth Walker, Cameron said in a statement shared with media outlets. For that reason, the only charge recommended was wanton endangerment.

The attorney general announced last Wednesday that while the shooting death of Taylor, a 26-year-old black woman, was tragic, the evidence considered in the case could not indict any of the three officers  Jonathan Mattingly, Brett Hankison and Myles Cosgrove  for her death.

They were involved in the fatal shooting incident after breaking into Taylors apartment to execute a no-knock search warrant related to a narcotics probe involving Taylors ex-boyfriend, Jamarcus Glover, on March 13.

Hankison was charged with three counts of wanton endangerment of people in a neighboring apartment, a Class D felony. None of the officers were presented with any charges related to Taylor, who was struck by six bullets.

In his detailing of the facts in the case, Cameron said that in the early morning hours of March 13, the officers went to Taylors apartment to execute the warrant and were advised by superiors to knock and announce their presence in serving it.

The officers said they both knocked and announced their presence at the apartment, contrary to earlier accusations that they hadnt announced their presence. Their announcement was corroborated by an independent witness who was near Taylors apartment. However, other residents have also said they did not hear the police announce themselves.

When no one answered, the officers breached the door. They said Mattingly was the first, and only, officer to enter the residence.

He identified two individuals standing beside one another at the end of the hall, a male and female.

The male who was identified as Taylors boyfriend, Kenneth Walker, was holding a gun, arms extended, in a shooting stance.

Mattingly saw the mans gun go off, heard a boom, and immediately knew he was shot because he felt heat in his upper thigh.

It was concluded that Walker fired the shot that hit Mattingly and there is no evidence to support that injury by friendly fire from the other officers.

Walker admitted that he fired one shot and was the first to shoot.

The ballistics report also shows that the round that struck Mattingly was fired from a 9 mm handgun. The officers fired .40 caliber handguns. However, one of Walkers attorney, Steve Romines, said last Wednesday that he had obtained a Louisville Metro Police Department record that shows that Hankison was issued a 9 mm gun, according to USA Today.

Mattingly returned fire after releasing six shots.

Cosgrove, who was also in the doorway area, shot 16 times. Evidence shows that only one of Taylors six bullet wounds were fatal.

Hankison also fired his weapon 10 times, including from outside a sliding-glass door and through a bedroom window.

Some bullets traveled through the walls and two other apartments. In one of those apartments, a male, pregnant female and a child were at home.

The attorney generals investigation found that Mattingly and Cosgrove were justified in their use of force, after having been fired upon by Walker.

The KSP ballistics analysis did not identify which of the three officers fired the fatal shot, a statement from the attorney generals office reads. The FBI Crime Lab was asked to conduct an analysis to see if their analysis reached the same results. The FBI ballistics analysis concluded that the fatal shot was fired by Detective Cosgrove.

[Special Prosecution Unit] looked at both reports to determine if there were major differences in the procedures used by each lab that would have led the FBI to identify who fired the fatal shot, the statement continues. Both law enforcement agencies used similar equipment and analysis, but issued different findings.

The attorney generals office contends that different conclusions create a reasonable doubt in the evidence about who fired the fatal shot.

Glogower told The New York Times that the juror was unsettled by the fact that the grand jury was presented only with possible charges for Hankison, who was fired in June, but not charges for Mattingly or Cosgrove.

Legal experts had explained to the newspaper, however, that Kentuckys vigorous self-defense laws made it unlikely that murder charges would be filed against any of the officers because Walker had fired first.

We have no concerns with grand jurors sharing their thoughts on our presentation because we are confident in the case we presented, Elizabeth Kuhn, a spokeswoman for the attorney general, told the New York Times on Monday.

Our prosecutors presented all of the evidence, even though the evidence supported that Sergeant Mattingly and Detective Cosgrove were justified in their use of force after having been fired upon by Kenneth Walker. For that reason, the only charge recommended was wanton endangerment.

Ramon McGee, a longtime criminal defense lawyer, said the charges the attorney general presented to the grand jury was not problematic.

That is an incorrect assumption on how the grand jury process works, he said. Prosecutors make the decision on what witnesses are called, which evidence is tendered and what charges to recommend.

Benjamin Crump, attorney for Taylors family, told CBS News that there were concerns with the investigation.

Crump said his team had spoken with 12 witnesses who say they did not hear officers announce themselves during the execution of the warrant.

"Daniel Cameron only presented his perspective and didn't present the other 12 neighbors [perspective], Crump said. He has unilaterally made a decision on whether or not Breonna Taylor would ever get due process, whether she would ever get justice, and that is not right.
Gurugram, Oct 1 : Multiple workers' unions and women outfits took to the streets in Gurugram demanding justice for the 19-year-old Hathras gang rape victim.

Peaceful protests began in the district on Thursday under the banner of the Municipal Employees' Union of Haryana. The protesters also burned the effigy of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath at the main gate of the mini secretariat building and sought his resignation for the rising crime graph against women in Uttar Pradesh.

Marches were taken out from Agrasen Chowk in old Gurugram to the mini secretariat by the protesters and union workers in support of the victim.

The workers' unions also submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister through the Gurugram Deputy Commissioner (DC) and demanded strict punishment for the culprits.

They said that the rape of the Hathras Dalit woman was not the only such incident and that under the BJP government life had turned into a nightmare for women. The protesters also lashed out at the UP police for cremating the victim's body despite her family wanting to perform the last rites.

"We demand the resignation of UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and arrest and punishment of senior UP police and district administration officials under the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, for the secret midnight cremation of the Dalit rape victim of Hathras," a member of the union, Ram Singh said.

The protesters were also demanding that the case should be transferred to a Delhi fast track court so that the victim's family gets justice at the earliest and the culprits should be hanged till death.

Meanwhile, the Gurugram police have beefed up security across the district to avoid any untoward incident.

"A sufficient number of police forces have been deployed at multiple locations across the city for security purposes. We have told the force to keep an eye on anti-social elements," said a senior police official on the condition of anonymity.
Editors note: In honor of October being National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, The Fremont Tribune is publishing a series, Think Pink that shares a story every week of community members who battled or are currently battling breast cancer. The Tribunes masthead is also pink on these days instead of its normal black to commemorate the month.

Shelley Meyers breast cancer wasnt detected because of a lump.

In 2019, the Fremont woman had a mammogram.

It was deep inside, Meyer said. It was very, very small.

After the mammogram, Meyer had a biopsy which indicated she had cancer.

She was diagnosed in July 2019, and received the news before her birthday on Aug. 2.

Meyer then began a journey, which included surgery and radiation.

She was able to have treatment in Fremont, which Meyer said was wonderful, because she doesnt drive.

They made it very easy, she said.

Meyer was given three treatment options: mastectomy or mastectomy with reconstruction or a lumpectomy. She decided on a lumpectomy.

She chose the lumpectomy, figuring she could have more surgery later if necessary. She had surgery at Methodist Hospital in Omaha and due to nausea was admitted and stayed the night.

Meyers sister, Gloria Weir, stayed the night with her at the hospital. Weir spent five nights with Meyer in her home thereafter.

The sisters chuckle a little bit about when Weir couldnt reach her sister by phone on the sixth day. Weir went to her sisters apartment and found her sleeping. Meyer just hadnt heard the phone.

She had 20 calls on my phone, Meyer said, smiling.

Meyer later would learn shed need a second surgery.

They came back and said they didnt think they got it all, she said.

So Meyer returned for another surgery. She was glad to learn no cancer had spread to her lymph nodes. Her sister stayed with Meyer for a couple of days in her home.

Meyer would seek medical attention for an infection.

I went to see a surgeon in Fremont, which was connected to Methodist so it all worked together very nicely, she said.

Meyer had general anesthetic for a surgery to drain the infection.

She was scheduled for treatment with oncologist Dr. Muhammad Haroon of Nebraska Cancer Specialists, which has a Fremont office, and a radiation doctor.

Meyer had 16 radiation treatments.

It wasnt painful, Meyer said. I was tired and maybe a little sore, but the people there were just wonderful, the nurses, the technicians. They made you as comfortable as possible. They were all really nice.

After her treatments, Meyer returned for a checkup.

Meyer went to Mexico in January for a vacation. She also went for a checkup in August.

They did a mammogram and everything was good, she said.

With a good prognosis, Meyer looks toward her future. She plans to move to Lawrence, Kansas, where her son, James Duft lives with his family. He and his wife, Jessica, bought a home with a mother-in-law suite so Meyer will have her own apartment. She looks forward to spending time with them and her 8-year-old grandson, Julian.

My grandson wants to get walkie talkies, which I think is so cute, she said.

The family already has a golden retriever, but Julian wants to get a puppy. So Meyer will have a grandson, a granddog and a grandpuppy.

I feel blessed that my son and my daughter-in-law want me that close, she said.

Meyer recalls what helped her and appreciates the support shes received. She said her faith helped her stay hopeful.

I realized how good family is, she said.

Meyers sister stayed with her and checked up on her afterward. Meyers son called her often.

After her treatments, Meyer heard a song by Elton John called Im Still Standing.

I heard that song and its like, Thats my song, she said. Im still standing.

Weir commends her sister.

She was a trooper, she said. She was strong. She was positive. She didnt have a poor me attitude.

Meyer has hopeful words for those receiving a breast cancer diagnosis.

You can get through it, she said.

Meyer appreciates support from other people whod gone through cancer.

They were very positive, she said. I had a good support group.

Now, she looks ahead to being closer to her son and his family and the possibility of chatting via walkie talkie with her grandson.







Breast Cancer Awareness Month

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Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 1)  The Philippines COVID-19 case count reached 314,079, after it climbed by 2,415 on Thursday, the Department of Health announced.

The national capital region along with its neighboring provinces continued to contribute the most to the daily rise in cases, the latest report showed. Metro Manila logged an additional 930 infections, while Cavite had 238, Rizal had 128, and Laguna had 123. Meanwhile, Negros Occidental in Western Visayas registered 103 more cases.

The department also confirmed another 771 recoveries, raising the tally of survivors to 254,223.

However, 59 more patients succumbed to the disease, bringing the death toll to 5,562. Among the newly announced fatalities, 37 died in September, while the other 22 in April to August.

The latest figures bring the number of active cases or currently ill patients to 54,294, or 17 percent of the national case tally.

The DOH said seven COVID-19 testing laboratories have not been able to submit their data on time. It added that 30 duplicates were removed from the total case count as part of its constant data cleaning process, including 19 recoveries and a death.

Seventeen cases previously reported as recoveries have also been reclassified as deaths after final validation.

Iloilo City is on its first day back to the more lenient general community quarantine, less than a week after upgrading its quarantine status due to an upsurge in cases. Meanwhile, Lanao del Sur, including Marawi City, has shifted to the more restrictive MECQ, which is set to last until end-October. Under this quarantinestatus, public transportation is not allowed and more industries are not permitted to operate.

Metro Manila, Batangas, Tacloban City, Bacolod City, and Iligan City will be under GCQ until Oct. 31, while the rest of the country will be under the more relaxed modified GCQ.

Abroad, five more Filipinos contracted the coronavirus for a total of 10,539 infected, the Department of Foreign Affairs said. Eighteen more overseas Filipinos also recovered, while another one died from the disease, pushing the figures to 6,745 recoveries and 793 fatalities.

COVID-19 cases across the globe are nearing 34 million, with over one million deaths and 23.6 million recoveries, based on data from the US-based Johns Hopkins University.
A day after a CBI special court in Lucknow acquitted all the accused, including BJP veteran LK Advani, in the Babri Masjid demolition case, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday said the1992 incident was an unparalleled crime that has deeply wounded the country like the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi. Urging that it was "time to fight against religious hegemony" in order to protect the country's democracy and secularism, Vijayan said the CBI and the central government have the responsibility to take necessary legal action to punish the perpetrators of the crime.

All the 32 accused in the Babri mosque demolition case, including BJP veterans Advani and MM Joshi, were on Wednesday acquitted by a special CBI court, which said there was no conclusive proof against them. "The demolition of the Babri Masjid is not just a destruction of a mosque - it is an unparalleled crime that has deeply wounded the country like the assassination of Gandhi," Vijayan said.

The case relates to the razing of the disputed structure in Ayodhya on December 6, 1992, which triggered riots for several months leaving nearly 2,000 people dead across the country. "We have before us the perpetrators of the Rath yatra that preceded the demolition of the mosque, those wholed the yatra, their aides, those who called for Karseva, the organisations that provided people and means to it.

We also have people who asked who the court was, to stop them at that point. It is unfortunate that such criminals are not punished. They deserve the punishment for their attempts to destroy secularism in our country," Vijayan said.

He lashed out at the Sangh Parivar and said "it was responsible for this heinous act which has inflicted the greatest blow on India's secularism." The Left leader also hit out at the Congress and said the national party, along with its allies were also responsible for the events that led to the destruction of the Mosque, facilitating it and for creating favourable conditions. "It was the Congress party which opened the doors of Babri Masjid for the Sangh Parivar.

It was the Congress that gave permission for the laying of the foundation stone of the temple. As a natural consequence of all this, when the Sangh Parivar demolished the Babri Masjid, it was the Congress that allowed it and remained silent through inaction," Vijayan said. He also pointed out that even the Supreme Court in the final verdict on the land dispute of Ayodhya case on November 9 last year, had said the installation of Lord Ram's idol at the disputed site on December 22 1949, was part of a conspiracy.

"The apex court had said the demolition of Babri Masjid was an abuse of rule of law. In today's context, the time has come to fight religious hegemony. It is indispensable to protect our democracy and secularism," Vijayan added.
Evening grosbeaks, which make concentrated winter irruptions south as far as Pennsylvania irregularly at best, may be on the way this year.

According to the 22nd annual Winter Finch Forecast from the Ontario Field Ornithologists, the spectacular winter finch appears to be on the move this winter.

Tyler Hoar, who took over responsibilities for the forecast from Ron Pittaway this year, noted that the grosbeaks "breeding population appears to be increasing in eastern Canada westward to Manitoba due to increasing outbreaks of spruce budworm with large severe outbreaks in eastern Quebec.

"Visual count observations by Tadoussac Bird Observatory in Quebec of grosbeaks moving primarily towards the southwest are reported to be the highest early fall numbers recorded in 25 years.

"Expect flights of evening grosbeaks into southern Ontario, southern Quebec, Maritime Provinces, New York and New England States, with some finches going farther south into the United States.

At feeders they prefer black oil sunflower seeds. Away from feeders evening grosbeaks will look for maple and ash trees still holding keys.

When fall cone and tree-seed crops in the boreal forests across most of Ontario and northeastern Canada are sparse, the birds that rely on those food sources move to the south in search of more abundant sources of food. Its known as an irruption and some years it sees the northern finches move as far south as Pennsylvania.

Overall, Hoar reports, "It looks to be a flight year for several species in the East. Most cone crops average poor to fair from Lake Superior eastward with eastern white pine being the exception. Spruce crops increase west from Lake Superior from fair to excellent in western Canada and Alaska.

He expects most purple finches  another winter irruptive species  to migrate south out of eastern Canada this winter. Reports of the species have been emerging from northern states for several weeks, and abnormally high numbers of purple finches have been reported by contributors to the forecast.

The pandemic interfered with obtaining widespread information on the swamp birch seed crop, but the white and yellow birch crops across boreal and southern Canada appear to be just poor to fair. So, if the common and hoary redpolls move away from the swamp birch areas they could be push to the south.

Large numbers of pine siskins are being reported in western Canada, but an excellent spruce seed crop also is being noted and that means the species probably wont be making much of a winter irruption. In eastern Canada, on the other hand, the smaller number of siskins are finding more limited food availability and will be moving south.

Red crossbills and white-winged crossbills are not expected to make much of a move this winter, as white pines and spruce have produced excellent seed crops.

Contact Marcus Schneck at mschneck@pennlive.com.
After a couple months of speculation about the move, Boeing Co. confirmed Thursday it will consolidate production of its 787 Dreamliner jet in South Carolina, marking a major shift for the company and dealing a serious blow to Washington state's aerospace sector.

The changes will close the 787 production line in Everett, Wash., which has been splitting final assembly with Boeing's plant in North Charleston.

The consolidation will begin in mid-2021, the company said.

"As our customers manage through the unprecedented global pandemic, to ensure the long-term success of the 787 program, we are consolidating 787 production in South Carolina," Stan Deal, president and chief executive officer of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said in a statement.

News of the likely announcement was broken Tuesday night by the Wall Street Journal, and predictions about the move have been made since late July when CEO David Calhoun disclosed that the company was considering moving assembly of the Dreamliner to one location.

Due to the depressed demand for new aircraft during the coronavirus pandemic, just six of the wide-body jets will be built per month next year  too few to keep both lines going. Pivoting to the Palmetto State offered serious cost savings, a prospect difficult to overlook as the aerospace giant looks to offset financial losses.

In a message to employees Thursday morning, Deal said that moving all 787 assembly to South Carolina would make them "more competitive and efficient" and better able to "weather these challenging times and win new business."

Deal credited employees in Everett for helping to "give birth to an airplane that changed how airlines and passengers want to fly."

There are about 900 employees right now in the Puget Sound region who work on the 787 program. It wasn't clear Thursday how many will be impacted by the consolidation.

Decisions about staffing changes "will be developed and evaluated in the next few months in conjunction with the overall transition plan," Boeing said, and the company will "work to minimize the impacts" on workers.

Its Seattle-area employees will focus on continuing to build the remaining aircraft programs there, Boeing said: the still-grounded 737 Max, the 767 freighter, the 777/777X and the 747, which is being retired in 2022.

Since the consolidation study was announced, Washington state officials have tried to convince the planemaker to keep the Dreamliner program  and the hundreds of jobs associated with it  in Everett.

In South Carolina, the consolidation is likely to be met with open arms. Since the Palmetto State first courted the company to open its second 787 factory in North Charleston in 2009, Boeing has been a crown jewel in the state's economic development crown.

Gov. Henry McMaster called it a "very welcome announcement," citing the possibility of new jobs.

U.S. Rep. Joe Cunningham, D-S.C., who represents Charleston in the 1st Congressional District, said Thursday he would "wholeheartedly welcome" Boeing's plan to bring all 787 assembly to the Lowcountry.

While Boeing's decision in 2009 to build its second 787 final assembly plant in North Charleston came with major financial benefits  an initial incentive package promised about $900 million in various tax breaks  McMaster said that wasn't the case for the consolidation decision.

"If they have problems, we try to help, we try to eliminate obstacles," McMaster said. "But there were no incentives with this.

Boeing South Carolina spokeswoman Libba Holland confirmed the company has not received any new incentives to consolidate in the Palmetto State.

"This decision was driven by an objective review of market realities, production scenarios and logistical considerations," the company said in a statement. "We value our relationships across South Carolina and constantly work with those partners to ensure a long-term, competitive business environment."

On the West Coast, state officials criticized the planemaker for its decision.

Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee wrote in a statement Wednesday that the announcement was "an insult to the hardworking aerospace employees who build 787s" in his state.

"I understand the serious market forces Boeing faces today," Inslee said in his statement. "What I don't understand is why the company can't commit to restoring production here when the market for this plane improves."

When Calhoun explained the consolidation study during the company's second quarter earnings call, he said they would only consolidate if they felt that the site selected could continue to handle production on its own once the demand for the wide-body returns, boosting the monthly production rate back into double digits.

That would mean Boeing's North Charleston campus could eventually build a few more jets per month than it was making at the program's peak rate of 14 planes per month with the work split between the two lines.

Inslee's statement suggested there could be repercussions for closing Puget Sound's 787 operations for good, saying that the decision "necessitates a review" of Boeing's "favorable tax treatment."

Boeing is Washington state's largest employer. At the beginning of the year, about 30,000 people were working at the factory in Everett, and 71,800 people total in Washington state were employed by Boeing, more than 10 times the number in South Carolina.

Almost 7,000 South Carolinians were working for Boeing in January, making it the county's largest private employer.

Company-wide cuts that reduced Boeing's workforce by a tenth during the pandemic affected the North Charleston factory, but the company has not disclosed how many jobs there were lost. An updated employee headcount is expected in early 2021.

Boeing's decision to move all Dreamliner assembly to South Carolina will "definitely have a long-term impact" on the state's aerospace sector, said Stephen Astemborski, the director of SC Aerospace, a pro-business group that's part of the S.C. Council of Competitiveness.

Astemborski pointed to the growth that's happened since the Dreamliner final assembly facility was added in South Carolina: Employment in the sector increased by more than 11 percent in an about decade-long span.

Everett has been building 787-8 and 787-9 airplanes since 2007. The North Charleston plant was brought online in 2010.

In its statement about the consolidation, Boeing noted that the 787-10, or "Dash 10," the longest version of the Dreamliner, can only be built in South Carolina. Aft- and mid-body fuselage parts for the jet that are fabricated at the campus next to Charleston International Airport are too big to fit inside the cargo plane it uses to transport parts.

And since all aft- and mid-fuselage sections are made in North Charleston, all of those section will be moved from one part of the campus to another, rather than some being flown to Everett, once the program is consolidated.

Another consideration not noted by Boeing in its statements but referenced often by industry watchers and aerospace experts who predicted the move, is South Carolina's status as a right-to-work state.

The workforce at the North Charleston campus is not unionized while unions have represented workers in the Puget Sound region for decades.

Jon Holden, president of their local chapter of the International Association of Machinists union, argued in his response to the consolidation that moving all 787 work to a non-union site was "about control of the workforce."

Deal said in his message to employees that all stakeholders, including unions, were "engaged' in the consolidation study and cited the fact that so many of Boeing's employees would be affected by the decision as the reason why they "took the time to run a rigorous and thoughtful evaluation."

The email referenced "months" spent on the study, but did not provide a specific timeframe for when the work started. Calhoun's first public statement about consolidation was on July 29.

Boeing's decision to bring all 787 work to South Carolina comes during a tumultuous year for the company as it faces two simultaneous crises: the COVID-19 pandemic and the grounding of its 737 Max, which the Federal Aviation Administration is getting closer to allowing to fly again.

The Max was pulled from service worldwide more than 18 months ago after two deadly crashes.

More recently, the FAA has said that it's investigating several production mistakes with the Dreamliner program, including manufacturing errors made at the North Charleston plant that led to the grounding of eight jets.
British engineering titan Rolls-Royce has unveiled plans to raise 5billion in emergency funds as it scrambles for survival.

The aircraft engine maker intends to go cap in hand to shareholders to help shore up its finances which have been devastated by the Covid-19 pandemic.

If approved by the Treasury, the 2billion rights issue could unlock another 1billion loan from the Government's UK trade finance body, UK Export Finance.

Cash strapped: Rolls-Royce intends to go cap in hand to shareholders to help shore up its finances which have been devastated by the Covid-19 pandemic

Rolls also plans to borrow another 1billion by issuing new bonds to investors and said it has secured a 1billion loan on top of this.

The sheer scale of the fundraising underlines the desperate plight of the world-renowned business, which has become one of the biggest corporate casualties of the coronavirus pandemic.

Shares fell another 10.2 per cent, or 13.2p, to a 17-year low of 116.8p  taking losses so far this year to 83 per cent. ]

Two years ago shares were worth more than 10 each. Rolls-Royce is now valued at just 2.2billion  less than half the 5billion market cap of discount retailer B&M.

Rolls has already announced it intends to lay off 9,000 staff to slash costs and sell off parts of the business to raise 2billion.

Chief executive Warren East said the plans to raise extra cash 'improves our resilience to navigate the current uncertain operating environment'. The 58-year-old added: 'The sudden and material effect of the Covid-19 pandemic has a significant impact on the commercial aviation industry, resulting in a sharp deterioration in the financial performance of our civil aerospace business and, to a lesser extent, our power systems business.'

Rolls-Royce designs, manufactures and services engines and turbines for the defence, marine and oil and gas industries.

Rolls Royce Chief exec Warren East said the plans to raise extra cash 'improves our resilience to navigate the current uncertain operating environment'

But the company is particularly reliant on the civil aerospace business which accounts for just over half of its revenues.

The engineer makes money not from selling engines, but on payments airlines make when its engines are flying.

This 'power-by-hour' model typically generates around 4billion a year for the firm. Flying hours have roughly halved since the pandemic started, with planes grounded around the world.

Last month, Rolls-Royce slid to a 5.4billion half-year loss as the company was battered by the downturn in air travel.

Russ Mould, investment director at stockbroker AJ Bell, said: 'Once seen as a shining light of British industry, Rolls been laid low by a combination of events which range from technical problems with its engines to a global pandemic which has hammered global demand for air travel and aircraft.

'This has left the company looking for cash to try to see it through the downturn to make sure it can come out the other side so it can capitalise on the eventual upturn in global travel.'

Experts said the coronavirus pandemic came at the worst time for Rolls-Royce, which has already spent billions to resolve technical problems with some of its aircraft engines.

The firm has been exploring a range of options to ensure it emerges from the crisis, including raising 500million by selling a stake in the company to sovereign wealth funds in Singapore and Kuwait.

But it is understood Rolls ditched talks due to unease among institutional shareholders that it would dilute their holdings in the firm.

The company has instead turned to the Government for more help, having already borrowed 2billion in state-backed loans.

Yesterday it said the extension of another 1billion loan depended on the Treasury and UK Export Finance approving the 2billion fundraising with existing shareholders.

The Government holds a 'golden share' in Rolls which prevents the company from coming under foreign control as it is deemed to be of strategic interest to the UK.
According to Live Law, the court has also directed The Indian Express, Times of India, AajTak, NDTV, among others, to produce the material and content on the basis of which they have reported the cremation of the victim

A Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court on Thursday took suo moto cognisance of the gang-rape and murder of a Dalit teen allegedly by four men in Hathras district of Uttar Pradesh and her forcible cremation by the police, and summoned top government officials.

A bench of justices Rajan Roy and Jaspreet Singh issued summons to the Uttar Pradesh additional chief secretary, director general of police and additional director general of police, telling them to be present before the court on 12 October to explain the case, PTI reported.

The bench further directed the Hathras district magistrate and senior superintendent of police to appear before it.

The bench told all officials to come prepared with all the relevant material and documents to apprise the court of their versions of the case.

According to Live Law, the court has also directed The Indian Express, Times of India, AajTak, NDTV, among others, to produce the material and content on the basis of which they have reported the cremation of the victim.

"The matter is of immense public importance and public interest as it involves allegation of high-handedness by the state authorities resulting in violation of the basic human and fundamental rights not only of the deceased victim but also of her family members," Live Law quoted the high court as saying in a tweet. The court, which appeared especially upset over the police cremating the teen's body overnight allegedly forcibly in Hathras without her parent's consent, also asked officials to apprise the bench of the latest status of the probe. Referring to reports of forcible cremation, the court, according to another Live Law tweet, said that "what is alleged to have happened after her death, thereafter, if true, amounts to perpetuating the misery of the family and rubbing salt in their wounds".

"we direct the Senior Registrar of this Court at Lucknow to register a suo moto Public Interest Litigation with the title "In Re : Right to decent and dignified last rites/cremation and place it before the appropriate Bench having jurisdiction to hear PILs" - HC.#Hathras  Live Law (@LiveLawIndia) October 1, 2020

The bench also asked the late teen's parent to come to the court to apprise it of their version of the case and ordered the Hathras district administration to arrange for their travel to the court.

The teen was gang-raped on 14 September following which she was admitted to the JN Medical College Hospital in Aligarh with serious injuries. She was referred to Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital on Monday after her condition showed no signs of improvement. She died at the Delhi hospital on Tuesday, prompting outrage, protests and calls for justice.
Punjab:

All the arrangements are complete for the conduct of the Punjab assembly polls on 117 seats on Saturday with unprecedented security arrangements being made for the smooth and peaceful elections.

Punjab Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) V K Bhawra said unprecedented security arrangements have been made for the polls as compared to arrangements made in previous elections.

Around one lakh security personnel including paramilitary forces have been deployed in these elections, said Bhawra who is also the nodal officer for state polls.

Unlike previous polls, police check posts continued to stay at several locations before the 48 hours of the polls on the directions of the Election Commission, he said.

With Punjab set to witness a three-horse poll race, the Election Commission has set a target to achieve 85 per cent polling during 2017 assembly polls.

The election machinery is ready for the February 4 polls, Punjab Chief Electoral Officer V K Singh said while addressing media here this evening.

He informed that voting would start at 8 AM and would go on till 5 PM for the 117 assembly constituencies.

As many as 22,614 polling stations including 14 auxiliary polling stations have been set up at 14,177 polling locations in the state, the CEO said.

Asked about the vulnerable polling stations, Singh said there are 5,500 vulnerable stations and around 800 are critical polling stations in the state.

A total of 1.98 crore voters are eligible for voting comprising 93.76 lakh women and 415 third gender. There are 4.05 lakh first time voters of 18-19 years of age, he said.

There are 364 NRI voters in the state. Besides, there are 1.05 lakh service voters in the state, he said, adding there are 65.36 lakh are urban voters while 1.33 crore are rural ones in the state.

Singh said, There are 1,145 candidates including 81 women in the fray for the elections.

On Amritsar Lok Sabha by-election seat, nine candidates are trying their luck. There are 13.80 lakh voters in the Lok Sabha seat.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
Bengaluru, Oct 1 : A female zebra foal was born in Bannerghatta biological park in the city to mother Kaveri and father Bharath amid Covid-19 times, said a zoo official on Thursday.

"Kaveri and the foal are healthy and doing well. The parents are proud of the foal, which was born on September 27 at 8 p.m. The sprawling zoo has four zebras," the zoo director said in a statement.

The Infosys Foundation contributed to building the zoo's zebra enclosure where the species have been bred. The latest foal is the third to be born in the zoo in the last four years.

"With a year gestation period, mares give birth during night. The labour lasts for 8-10 minutes and the foal can run around in an hour," said the statement.

The foal is protected from other herd members by mother and the dominant stallion of the herd.

Founded in 1970 and declared as a national park in 1974, the zoo is a popular tourist destination. It has a pet corner, an animal rescue centre, a butterfly enclosure, an aquarium, a snake house and a safari park.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-09-30 20:06:00|Editor: huaxia

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VIENNA, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- The vast majority of Austrians are in favor of a mask requirement in parts of public life, according to a recent survey.

A total of 81 percent of respondents stated that mouth and nose protection should currently apply in shops and on public transport, according to the survey published on the website of the University of Vienna.

The survey of 1,500 people as part of the "Austrian Corona Panel Project" found 57 percent of the respondents say that the mask requirement in shops and on public transport should definitely apply, while 24 percent of respondents are at least more in favor of the mandate.

Taken together, this means 81 percent of Austrians support the mask requirement in September 2020, a similarly high level as at the end of April when 85 percent of the population supported the mask mandate, according to the statistics of the project.

On the other hand, 10 percent of the respondents tend to reject the measure, and 9 percent do not want it under any circumstances, according to the survey.

The lowest level of support for the mask requirement was reached in mid-June before the relaxation of lockdown, when a slim majority of respondents still supported the mask requirement. Since then, support for the measure has increased significantly again.

Austria tightened restrictive measures in mid-September in response to the accelerating spread of COVID-19 in the country, where wearing masks has been compulsory in shops, schools, and on public transport.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), face masks should be used as part of a comprehensive strategy of measures to suppress COVID-19 transmission and save lives.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreaks in early 2020, wearing masks in public has been widely accepted in Asian countries like China, South Korea, Japan and Vietnam to limit the spread of COVID-19. Enditem
MILWAUKEE - Police in Milwaukee were working to determine a motive for a shooting outside a funeral home that left seven people wounded during a violent day in the city.

Investigators were trying to determine whether the shooting was linked to the homicide victim that had brought mourners to Serenity Funeral Home on Wednesday afternoon, said acting Milwaukee Police Chief Michael Brunson.

All of the injured, including men and women ranging in age from 20 to 48 years old, were hospitalized in stable condition, Brunson said.

Police did not say Thursday whether a suspect or suspects had been detained.

The shooting happened after a car pulled up to a crowd of about 100 mourners outside Serenity Funeral Home at about 12:45 p.m. and shots were fired, according to reports.

Cedric Guy, the funeral homes owner, said mourners were gathered for the funeral of Braxton Taylor, the 26-year-old victim of a Sept. 17 shooting. His slaying is unsolved.

Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett called the shooting an example of the insanity were seeing with the number of guns on Milwaukee streets.

In addition to the funeral home shooting, at least nine others were shot in seven separate shootings Wednesday in Milwaukee, including two who died, police said.

The Milwaukee Health Departments Office of Violence Prevention called Thursday for increased support in addressing gun violence in the city.

The uptick in violence in 2020 comes after a steady 4-year decline in non-fatal shootings and homicides from 2016-2019. Increased access to firearms paired with the stress, tension, and despair caused by COVID-19 is having an impact on violence in cities across the country, Reggie Moore, the offices injury and violence prevention director, said in a statement.

The office called on state leaders to support measures to establish a statewide violence prevention fund to support community level strategies proven to reduce gun violence and promote safety.
By ANI

NEW DELHI: Two days after announcing a wrap of his upcoming spy-thriller 'Bell Bottom,' actor Akshay Kumar on Thursday dropped the poster of the film.

The poster sees the superstar all suited up as a detective and walking with a sturdy look on his face.

Akshay is seen wearing black aviators with a suitcase in his hand while the background has a landed airplane.

"Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much. Its teamwork and I am grateful to each and every member of the cast and crew. #BellBottomCompleted. Here's the poster," he wrote in the caption.

Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much. Its teamwork and I am grateful to each and every member of the cast and crew. #BellBottomCompleted. Heres the poster

.@Vaaniofficial @humasqureshi @LaraDutta @vashubhagnani @ranjit_tiwari @jackkybhagnani @honeybhagnani pic.twitter.com/Wyf08FMcen  Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) October 1, 2020

With the completion of the shoot of the film, 'Bell Bottom' has also become the first and the last film in the world to start and finish shooting during the coronavirus pandemic.

The film finds itself in the company of a handful of international, mega-budget films that got back on the floors during the pandemic such as Tom Cruise's 'Mission: Impossible 7' and 'Jurassic Park: Dominion,' managing to shoot in an unprecedented environment.

In the process, 'Bellbottom' has become the first of these films to complete shooting the entire film. (ANI)
HOLYOKE  Residents are concerned about homeless people living under the Interstate 391 overpass near Main Street and behind the dike at Springdale Park and McNulty Park in the Highlands neighborhood, City Councilor Terence Murphy says.

On Wednesday, Murphy led a virtual meeting of the Public Safety Committee where councilors and other Holyoke officials discussed how to address the issue.

My goal is not to harass those that are homeless but try to provide an incentive get them from being in the situation, and provide services to make their lives better, Murphy said, while also making the community safer and better for others.

He noted that the city of Quincy had 929 persons who chose to live in homeless shelters rather than on the streets. Of that group, 229 were domestic violence survivors, 127 were classified as veterans and 142 were elderly individuals who lost their homes  the fastest growing sector.

Holyoke has no homeless shelter within its borders, but there are shelters in Springfield, Northampton and Amherst.

Veterans Services Director Jesus Pereira said nonprofits in Hampden and Hampshire counties continue to work on the homelessness crisis. But he said shelters offer a temporary fix and not the solution to the problem.

You cant sit there and look simply for a place to put someone because now theyre homeless, Pereira said. We need a whole system thats going to take them from emergency housing to permanent housing. The whole system has to be in place for it to work. Otherwise, all youre doing is kicking the can down the road.

Pereira described Holyoke as panhandle friendly, attracting people from other communities who solicit cash at intersections around the city. He said the veterans he meets on the streets have challenges including multiple mental health diagnoses.

The citys Veterans Services Department administers the states Chapter 115 program, which helps place veterans in temporary housing. Right now, I got 15 guys who are temporarily housed at the Motel 6 through a program administered by Soldier On, Pereira said.

He cautioned that once the temporary housing runs out for the 15 veterans, they likely would return to the streets to panhandle or seek additional assistance with Pereiras office.

Theyre not organic to the city of Holyoke, and Im here to help everyone. Whats happening is Holyoke taxpayers are paying for the housing of folks from New York, New Jersey and Vermont, Pereira said.

Police Chief Manny Febo said six officers are assigned to tackle issues like addiction and homelessness. Several officers work with crisis intervention specialists from Behavioral Health Network, and officers who deal with elderly affairs and health and safety code enforcement. And police continue to partner with the Hampden County Sheriffs Department on street-level initiatives.

Were out there and working hard. Weve been on 80 calls just for crisis intervention since Aug. 1, he said.

Murphy asked Febo if his officers have any legal authority to remove encampments under I-391.

The last thing we want to do is make arrests, Febo said. We want to help, and we want them to help themselves, which is the most important piece of the puzzle.

Board of Health Director Sean Gonsalves agreed with Pereira that permanent housing is a lasting solution, but the lack of a homeless shelter in Holyoke is an obstacle.

He noted that the encampments crop up on private property, and said occupants can be told to leave. But he described a cycle whereby an encampment is cleared and cleaned up but returns to its former condition.

If theyre unwilling to go into a program, or for some reason they dont qualify at this moment, or theres a waitlist as there are for some programs, all we can do is ask them to move along, Gonsalves told the committee.

While no legal obstacles exist in shutting down the camps, Gonsalves said officials must act with sensitivity and empathy.

We are in talks about getting a shelter in Holyoke. The benefits of shelters are that you have a place to send people while theyre waiting for services, he said. Many of these shelters act as a venue for wraparound services.

Gonsalves added that homeless shelters are expensive to run and 24-hour-a-day operations. He plans to pursue grants to advance the shelter proposal.
BOSTON, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Connected2Fiber , the location engagement platform for network buyers and sellers, celebrates five years of operation today with record recent growth, including 275% revenue increase over the past two years, driven by net revenue retention rates exceeding 114%. Connected2Fiber has been transforming the go-to-market process for the connectivity industry since the official company start date of Oct. 1, 2015; five years later, it reflects on building a high-growth company in a transformative market.

Record Growth

A VC-funded SaaS company operating globally, Connected2Fiber built The Connected World , a platform that helps network operators and service providers more effectively develop, buy and sell connectivity. With over 12,000 active users, The Connected World includes more than 600 million unique locations actively tracked worldwide, 5,800 network service providers mapped by location.

Recent growth metrics include:

130% jump in platform users over the past year

More than 275% increase in Sales in past 2 years

In the past year, a 300% increase of unique locations actively tracked globally

Nearly $15 million in capital raised

in capital raised More than 150 service providers actively leveraging the platform to drive growth

Over 1 billion API queries across the ecosystem

"When we launched Connected2Fiber five years ago, we set out to develop the location source of truth for the connectivity industry and to fill an industry void for network operators and service providers needing to transact within an automated API economy. Digital transformation is happening across every industry and connectivity is strategic to enable and deliver these new services," says Ben Edmond , CEO and Founder of Connected2Fiber. "The market has offered its stamp of approval. But above and beyond any growth numbers, we're most proud of the innovative ecosystem we've created that's pushing global networks forward."

Recent Accomplishments

Over the past year alone, Connected2Fiber has grown its ecosystem, brand and funding pool. The company established or grew partnerships with Alluvion Communications , BeyondReach , IFN , MetroNet , OPTK Networks , TeraGo , Uniti Fiber , Vision Net and more. In January, Connected2Fiber won the PTC Award for "Outstanding Network Intelligence and Management Company," which celebrates "software (or hardware) capabilities that ensure the flexibility and reliability of today's and tomorrow's networks." In October 2019, Connected2Fiber announced that it entered into a growth capital term loan agreement with Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), which provided up to $1.5 million of new capital  just three months after releasing news about a $5.3 million round of funding.

"Thank you to our many customers, team members and partners over the past five years," continues Ben Edmond. "We're celebrating this milestone today because of your trust and support, and we look forward to continued growth in 2021 and beyond."

To learn more, visit www.connected2fiber.com .

About Connected2Fiber

Connected2Fiber is the location engagement platform for network buyers and sellers. The Connected World platform details and displays deep, trusted location-based insight and empowers users to leverage that insight to automate go-to-market processes around deal identification, account prioritization, and product pricing. Visit Connected2Fiber on the web at www.connected2fiber.com or follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/connected2fiber/ .

SOURCE Connected2Fiber

Related Links

https://www.connected2fiber.com


U.S. Representative Katie Porter (D-CA) speaks at a campaign town hall meeting with Democratic 2020 U.S. presidential candidate and U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) in Mason City, Iowa, U.S., January 11, 2020. Brian Snyder/Reuters

Rep. Katie Porter tore into Celgene CEO Mark Alles on Wednesday over price hikes on a cancer drug.

Porter grilled the CEOs of Teva, Celgene, and Bristol Myers Squibb as part of a House investigation into the pricing of Teva's multiple-sclerosis drug Copaxone and Bristol Myers Squibb's multiple-myeloma drug Revlimid.

During a Wednesday congressional hearing, Porter, a former consumer-protection attorney, used a whiteboard to illustrate points such as how much money the CEO made, how much a single pill of Revlimid cost over the years, and how much his bonus was as a result.

Alles confirmed that the manufacturing for the drug remained the same amid price increases but said the drug was approved for new uses.

"To recap here: The drug didn't get any better, the cancer patients didn't get any better  you just got better at making money, you just refined your skills at price gouging," Porter replied.

Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Rep. Katie Porter of California grilled Celgene CEO Mark Alles on Wednesday over price hikes on a cancer drug that she said resulted in a bonus of half a million dollars for the pharma executive.

Alles appeared before the House oversight committee alongside the CEOs of Teva and Bristol Myers Squibb as part of a House investigation into the pricing of Teva's multiple-sclerosis drug Copaxone and Bristol Myers Squibb's multiple-myeloma drug Revlimid. Alles served as CEO of Celgene before it was acquired by Bristol Myers Squibb in 2019.

"Since launching Revlimid in 2005, Celgene raised the price of the drug 22 times, from $215 per pill to $719 per pill," according to documents from the House oversight committee's chairwoman, Rep. Carolyn Maloney. "After Bristol Myers Squibb obtained the rights to Revlimid last November, it raised the price of Revlimid again, to $763 per pill. Due to these price increases, a monthly course of Revlimid is priced at $16,023 today  more than triple the 2005 price."

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During the congressional hearing Wednesday, Porter, a former consumer-protection attorney, tore into Alles, writing key figures in her questions  such as how much the CEO made, how much a single pill of Revlimid cost over the years, and how much his bonus was as a result  on a whiteboard to striking effect.

"Did the drug start to work faster?" Porter said. "Were there fewer side effects? How did you change the formula or production of Revlimid to justify this price increase?" Alles confirmed that the manufacturing for the drug remained the same but said the drug was approved for new uses.

Porter went on to note that Alles was compensated $13 million in 2017 when he was CEO of Celgene and that he received a $500,000 bonus over the past two years that she credited to the company hiking the price of Revlimid.

"To recap here: The drug didn't get any better, the cancer patients didn't get any better  you just got better at making money, you just refined your skills at price gouging," Porter said.

Rep. Katie Porter (@RepKatiePorter) September 30, 2020

Porter was joined by two fellow freshman lawmakers  Rep. Rashida Tlaib and Rep. Ayanna Pressley  in pressing the other CEOs at the hearing as part of an 18-month investigation into the drug-price hikes.

Read the original article on Business Insider
The government referred seven presidential decrees on foreign agreements to the House

Egypt's House of Representatives held a 15-minute procedural sitting on Thursday, after which it was decided that MPs hold their next meeting on 1 November.

Parliament Speaker Ali Abdel-Aal told MPs that the government referred seven presidential decrees on foreign agreements to the House. "The House's Constitutional and Legislative Affairs Committee will meet to discuss the decrees," he said.

The majority of the decrees concern agreements with the US about improving basic education methods, health services and science and techonology. Other agreements focus on economic cooperation with the United Arab Emirates and the Arab Monetary Fund.

Abdel-Aal asked that the two presidential decrees on the adjourning of parliament's fifth legislative season and the opening meeting of the sixth legislative season be read out. The two decrees were issued by President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi on Tuesday.

Abdel-Aal mourned the death of the emir of Kuwait Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Gaber Al-Sabah, saying the late emir did his best to serve the interests of Kuwait and the Arab and Islamic worlds.

Egypt's two-stage parliamentary elections will be held between 21 October and 8 December. A new 596-member House of Representatives will be elected.

The tenure of the current parliament will expire on 9 January 2021.

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TEL-AVIV, Israel, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- HUB Security, a leading hardware cybersecurity solutions provider, announced today its collaboration with Marsh, the world's leading insurance broker and risk adviser, to offer a unique insured storage solution that enables US-based financial institutions to securely and with confidence offer digital asset custodial services.

Financial institutions can now store and manage digital assets, including cryptocurrency, on HUB's military-grade technological platform and purchase up to $400 million in "cold storage" insurance through Marsh's Digital Asset Risk Transfer (DART) team to cover the risk of theft or damage to the assets or destruction of private keys.

The solution, backed by A rated insurers, follows the August interpretive letter from the US Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) clarifying that national banks and federal savings associations may provide cryptocurrency custody services on behalf of customers, including the holding of unique cryptographic keys associated with cryptocurrency.

"The crypto custody market is poised to grow significantly following the OCC regulatory clarification," said Ankur Kacker, Senior Vice President and a Specie specialist on Marsh's DART team. "Our combined insured storage solution can provide financial institutions seeking to enter the market a secure place to safeguard their clients' assets and peace of mind knowing their exposures are covered."

"Together, HUB and Marsh are empowering banks and other financial institutions to offer services for storing their clients' digital assets by ensuring they are digitally secure and protected," said Eyal Moshe, CEO & Co-Founder of HUB Security.

About HUB Security

Hub Security is a top-tier, military-grade provider of programmable HSM and key management solutions for fintech, cloud, and blockchain security. Leveraging military-grade cybersecurity tactics and utilizing cutting-edge innovations, HUB Security has developed a family of products that provide the highest level of enterprise security available on the market today. https://hubsecurity.io/

About Marsh

Marsh is the world's leading insurance broker and risk adviser. With over 35,000 colleagues operating in more than 130 countries, Marsh serves commercial and individual clients with data driven risk solutions and advisory services. Marsh is a business of Marsh & McLennan Companies (NYSE: MMC), the leading global professional services firm in the areas of risk, strategy and people. With annual revenue approaching US$17 billion and 76,000 colleagues worldwide, MMC helps clients navigate an increasingly dynamic and complex environment through four market-leading businesses: Marsh, Guy Carpenter, Mercer, and Oliver Wyman. Follow Marsh on Twitter @MarshGlobal; LinkedIn; Facebook; and YouTube , or subscribe to BRINK.

SOURCE Hub Security

Related Links

https://hubsecurity.io/


Simon Arora became the CEO of B&M European Value Retail S.A. (LON:BME) in 2004, and we think it's a good time to look at the executive's compensation against the backdrop of overall company performance. This analysis will also evaluate the appropriateness of CEO compensation when taking into account the earnings and shareholder returns of the company.

View our latest analysis for B&M European Value Retail

How Does Total Compensation For Simon Arora Compare With Other Companies In The Industry?

According to our data, B&M European Value Retail S.A. has a market capitalization of UK5.0b, and paid its CEO total annual compensation worth UK1.2m over the year to March 2020. This means that the compensation hasn't changed much from last year. We note that the salary portion, which stands at UK643.8k constitutes the majority of total compensation received by the CEO.

On examining similar-sized companies in the industry with market capitalizations between UK3.1b and UK9.3b, we discovered that the median CEO total compensation of that group was UK1.4m. So it looks like B&M European Value Retail compensates Simon Arora in line with the median for the industry.

Component 2020 2019 Proportion (2020) Salary UK644k UK631k 53% Other UK569k UK574k 47% Total Compensation UK1.2m UK1.2m 100%

Speaking on an industry level, nearly 65% of total compensation represents salary, while the remainder of 35% is other remuneration. It's interesting to note that B&M European Value Retail allocates a smaller portion of compensation to salary in comparison to the broader industry. If salary is the major component in total compensation, it suggests that the CEO receives a higher fixed proportion of the total compensation, regardless of performance.

B&M European Value Retail S.A.'s Growth

Over the past three years, B&M European Value Retail S.A. has seen its earnings per share (EPS) grow by 13% per year. Its revenue is up 16% over the last year.

Story continues

This demonstrates that the company has been improving recently and is good news for the shareholders. It's a real positive to see this sort of revenue growth in a single year. That suggests a healthy and growing business. Historical performance can sometimes be a good indicator on what's coming up next but if you want to peer into the company's future you might be interested in this free visualization of analyst forecasts.

Has B&M European Value Retail S.A. Been A Good Investment?

We think that the total shareholder return of 41%, over three years, would leave most B&M European Value Retail S.A. shareholders smiling. As a result, some may believe the CEO should be paid more than is normal for companies of similar size.

In Summary...

As previously discussed, Simon is compensated close to the median for companies of its size, and which belong to the same industry. Investors would surely be happy to see that returns have been great, and that EPS is up. Indeed, many might consider that Simon is compensated rather modestly, given the solid company performance! In fact, shareholders might even think the CEO deserves a raise as a reward due to the fantastic returns generated.

While it is important to pay attention to CEO remuneration, investors should also consider other elements of the business. That's why we did some digging and identified 1 warning sign for B&M European Value Retail that you should be aware of before investing.

Important note: B&M European Value Retail is an exciting stock, but we understand investors may be looking for an unencumbered balance sheet and blockbuster returns. You might find something better in this list of interesting companies with high ROE and low debt.

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. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.



Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com.
For the midday, hottie CharMac attempting a newsworthy rebrand whilst dancing to an old school funk classic in hot pants inspires this peek at pop culture, community news and top headlines.

Dont Count On Kansas City Comeback Any Time Soon

KC area employment could return to pre-pandemic levels in 3 years, local group says KANSAS CITY, MO (KCTV) -- Economic experts have new projections for when Kansas City will recover from the impact of COVID-19. And while they believe the economic recovery will be quicker than the 2008 recession, they don't believe local employment numbers will return to normal for around three years.

More Beat Down Victims Need Help In Golden Ghetto

'This isn't normal, you don't deserve this'; JoCo domestic violence agency ramping up its message OVERLAND PARK, Kan. - Some experts have referred to domestic violence during the coronavirus quarantine a "pandemic within a pandemic." The unusual living conditions brought about by the stay-at-home-orders have only exacerbated an already dangerous and pervasive issue. Tammy Holwick survived the trauma of childhood domestic abuse and now works as an advocate to help [...]

KANSAS CITY METRO CAR JOBS NOW HIRING!!!

We're Hiring: General Motors looking to fill 70 positions KANSAS CITY, Mo. - General Motors has openings for 10 skilled trade workers and 60 part-time temporary workers at the Fairfax Assembly Plant. The plant produces the Chevrolet Malibu and the Cadillac XT4, making about 800 cars per day. The openings for skilled trades include pipefitters and millwrights.

CharMac Against The Box

Charlotte McKinney Would Like to Be Taken Seriously L isten my darling, you're never going to win the Nobel Prize for quantum physics, but you are easy on the eye. Those words, uttered by Dancing with the Stars judge Bruno Tonioli, still haunt Charlotte McKinney. "I've been put squarely in a box and I'm still in that box," she says.

Prez Trump Campaign Stays Winning Voter Signups

Trump's winning the voter registration battle against Biden in key states In the last few weeks, Joe Biden has led President Donald Trump by a fairly consistent eight point average in national polls and has maintained leads in more than enough battleground states to win the Electoral College, including Arizona, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin - all states Trump won in 2016.

Speaker Snuffs Deal

Stimulus negotiation latest: Pelosi call casts doubt on a deal House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, on a private call with the House Democratic whip team Thursday morning, sounded very down about the prospects of a deal for a new stimulus package to respond to the Covid-19 pandemic and its economic fallout, according to two people on the call.

Suspected Shooter Pushes Back Against Veep

Kyle Rittenhouse to sue Biden, campaign for libel, attorney says An attorney representing alleged Kenosha shooter Kyle Rittenhouse has announced plans to sue Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden and his campaign for libel on his client's behalf after Biden shared a video that appears to suggest the teenager is a White supremacist.

Prez Trump Walks Back Shout Out To Proud Boys

President Trump attempts to clarify his "stand back and stand by" statement President Trump may have emboldened the Proud Boys with his debate comments. The president is now saying he doesn't know "who" the Proud Boys are. Jeff Pegues speaks with a former member of the group.

Tech Talk Demanded

US Senate subpoenas heads of Google, Facebook and Twitter "There has never been such an aggregation of power in the history of humankind as big tech enjoys today, with money and monopoly, power and the hubris that comes with the unchecked use of power," Republican Senator Ted Cruz said following the vote.

Cowtown Halloween At Home

Weekend Possibilities | Spooky Season is Here, KCK Taco Trail, Natural Hair Expo It's fall y'all. Time to get your spook on and enjoy cool temperatures. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to do both this weekend in and around Kansas City. 6 - 8 p.m. Friday night is Ladies Night at Art in the Yard Kansas City in Overland Park, 7620 Santa Fe Drive.

Savor Local Sammich Info

Kansas City's Ultimate Sandwich Guide - In Kansas City There are few foods more perfect than a sandwich made right. From the simple to the multilayered, the satisfyingly messy to the easy-to-eat, Kansas City restaurants serve up exquisite takes on this meal between bread. While the competition is stiff, we've rounded up 13 of the absolute best to add to your lunch hit list....

Kansas City Chills In Autumn

Your Storm Track 5 Daily Forecast Breezy northwest winds will settle down after sunset. Temperatures will drop quickly by then as well with lows bottoming out in the low to mid 40s. Even colder air still on the way with Friday with areas north of the river possibly getting their first frost of the season.

Soft Cell "Tainted Love" (1981) is the song of the day and also the inspiration for the best jeans commerical in history. This is the OPEN THREAD for right now.
The driver of an Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) bus was arrested for allegedly molesting a 23-year-old woman from Bareilly on September 29.

According to the complaint filed by the woman, who is a college student and also an office bearer of a human rights organisation, she was returning from Delhi to her home in Bareilly along with two others and had boarded a UPSRTC bus Tuesday evening.

Soon, after we boarded the bus and it started to move, the driver, who was in an inebriated state, asked me to come and sit near to his seat. When I objected, he started misbehaving with me and also hurled verbal abuses. He started to get violent and then I confronted him. We were the only three women passengers aboard. Thereafter, other male passengers intervened and some of them also captured the entire incident through video, the complainant alleged.

In her complaint given to the police, the woman stated that the driver also told her that he is a government driver and offered her to stay with him.

The driver also assaulted me when I objected to his actions. Later, I went to the police station and gave a police complaint. The police were initially not ready to lodge the FIR but later they did as there were many passengers in the bus and videos of the incident had also been taken, she added.

The purported videos of the incident went viral over social media. They purportedly showed the suspect misbehaving and assaulting the victim.

Based on the complaint, the police registered an FIR against the driver identified as Sheodan Lal, who is stated to be a UPSRTC driver based at Hapur depot.

The FIR was registered under IPC sections of 354 (assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty), 354a (physical contact and advances involving unwelcome and explicit sexual overtures), 504 (intentional insult to provoke breach of peace) and 323 (voluntarily causing hurt) at the Sahibabad police station.

According to the police, however, they registered the complaint promptly. Based on the complaint given by the woman, we immediately registered an FIR under different IPC sections and the driver was arrested immediately. He was sent to jail, said Keshav Kumar, assistant superintendent of police (Sahibabad).

Regional officials UPSRTC said the alleged conduct of the driver shown towards the passenger cannot be justified at all. They said they have written to the concerned Hapur depot officials for initiating strict action against him.

The driver was suspended immediately after we came to know about the incident. He has a service record of about 15 years and was attached to the Hapur depot. I have written to his in-charge officer to initiate departmental action, said AK Singh, regional manager of UPSRTC.
Apu Gomes/AFP/Getty

Aracely Diaz was at home with her husband and kids when the email arrived, announcing that Disney would lay off 28,000 workers. Diaz has worked as a housekeeper at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim, California for 19 years. So had her husband, Micael Diaz. The next morning, the couple woke up at 6:30 in the morning, got in their car, and sped north on the I-5 to Sacramento.

It was a shockwe werent expecting this, the 48-year-old said in Spanish. But we told our kids, Hey, were going to go out there. Were doing this because we want to fight for ourselves. We have to make sure that our jobs are protected.

By mid-afternoon, they had joined a dozen of their coworkers at a large caravan processing around the State Capitol. Members of CLUEClergy and Laity United for Economic Justice had arranged a vigil to last through the night.

Gov. Gavin Newsom had until midnight PT on Sept. 30 to decide on a bill that would determine thousands of jobs statewide. If passed, Assembly Bill 3216, nicknamed the Right to Recall, would grant laid-off workers the first chance to be rehired, if and when their employers returned to regular operations. (Newsom did not respond to requests for commen

Workers Reveal Disney Is Covering Up Its COVID Cases

Outside, the caravan marched around the building. I see a lot of red shirts, Diaz said, referring to the tees of her hospitality union, Unite Here! Local 11. Some attendees held signs that read Support AB3216; one painted their car to say 10 Years of Service! Other workers had launched a hunger strike in the two days before the decision.

A hundred miles south in San Jose, Ash Kalra, a member of the California state Assembly, had been fasting for 48 hours. Kalra, who authored the bill, hadnt eaten since Monday evening. Im fasting in solidarity with our hotel workers, Kalra said on the phone from his car, en route to the vigil. It was an easy choice for me, because theyre fasting for a bill that I authored. I cant possibly have people fasting for my bill unless Im willing to do the same.

Story continues

The Chinese Government Locked Up My Uighur Father. Disneys Mulan Is a Disgrace.

He has fasted beforelast year, Kalra and a few other legislators honored the 50th anniversary of the Poor Peoples Campaign by abstaining from food for as many hours. But this marked his first hunger strike for a specific bill.

I feel good, in terms of the fast, Kalra said. It feels better today than yesterday. The first day tends to be the hardest part. Ive been drinking water, so it's not a complete fast.

The bill, which passed both houses of the California legislature, would apply beyond the employees recently laid off at Disney. It would expand protections for staff at hotels, airports, and event centers, as well as janitorial, security, and maintenance workers.

The Disney workers' caravan/vigil at the California State Capitol on Sept. 30, 2020. Asm. Kalra

The legislation also grants an additional 10 days of paid sick leave and provides for job-protected leave so workers can care for themselves or family members affected by COVID-19. Some California cities have already passed versions of the lawSan Diego, Oakland, Santa Monica, and Los Angeles among them.

But the whole state is not on board. The California Chamber of Commerce put AB3216 on their annual job killers list, claiming the mandate, Imposes an onerous and stringent process for specific employers to return employees to the workforce, which will delay rehiring and subject employers to litigation for any alleged mistakes.

Its a lot easier to label something a job killer than to actually sit down and figure out how to save jobs, Assemblymember Kalra said. Its literally a job saver, because it ensures that these peoples jobs will be saved. Were not telling hotels who to hirethese are people who were already working those jobs, and were laid off through no fault of anyone.

Outside the capitol, Diaz representatives from several organizations sat at the vigil. The bill has gotten support from the ACLU, the California Work and Family Coalition, and Jesuit West, which presented a letter to Gov. Newsom earlier this week. But it remained unclear how he would decide. We dont know, said Maria Hernandez, a Unite Here! representative. Well have to see. We havent heard anything. He has until midnight.

No one from the governors office has spoken to us, Diaz said. Right now, weve already walked around the whole capitol in a procession. Theres clergy here in support and solidarity with us. Were just going to have a vigil all day today and throughout the evening.

The Disney workers' caravan/vigil at the California State Capitol on Sept. 30, 2020. Asm. Kalra

If the governor doesnt sign before the deadline, a rule in the legislature will allow the bill to pass into law. But its been years since a governor has left a bill unsigned.

I will fast until the bill is signed or until midnight, which will bring it to 54 hours. But Im hoping I get a chance to eat before midnight, Kalra said. I do not have any dinner plans, but I have a couple snacks heresome trail mix and chipsso that if the bill is signed, I have things I can snack on quickly.

As it turned out, Kalra would not have to wait long. Just before 8:00 p.m., he got word that Gov. Newsom had vetoed the bill.

Governor Newsoms veto of AB 3216 is devastating news to the tens of thousands of workers across our state who have been laid off during this pandemic, Kalra said in a statement. On a day when Disney announced that it would be laying off over 28,000 employees and when reports suggest that Californias economic recovery could take at least two years, this feels like a missed chance at a recovery for all.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Alfred Abraham has had colon cancer, prostate cancer, open heart surgery and his left eye removed. Yet at 100, he's still alive and well. Every day, he and his partner Brian eat fruit and salad and go for walks. He and his family were planning a big party to celebrate his becoming a centenarian this past April, but the pandemic wouldn't allow for it. "At the present time, I'm doing very nicely despite what's going on," said Abraham, a former CPA and bank executive who lives in New York. One big part of why he's doing so well is his financial advisor, he says. More from Advisor Insight:

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Preparing heirs for the $68 trillion 'great wealth transfer' "He's doing a very good job for me," Abraham said. "We talk at least once or twice a month to discuss my investments and financial plans." There were more than 450,000 centenarians in the world in 2015, a number that is expected to balloon to more than 3.6 million by 2050. Although life expectancy has actually decreased slightly over the last few years, due to a rise in drug overdoses, suicide rates and liver disease, it's becoming more likely that people make it into their 80s, 90s and beyond. A 65-year-old woman today has a 50% chance of living to 85, and a 25% chance of crossing into her 90s, according to the Schwab Center for Financial Research. One of the biggest concerns investors have is outliving their money  and it's often their financial advisors who work with them to make sure this fear doesn't become a reality. As a result, financial advisors are increasingly accounting for the real possibility that their clients could be around for very long time. That includes finding ways to stretch out their savings and to protect their money from the risks and expenses associated with old age.

Amy Irvine Source: Amy Irvine

"When we're planning for clients, we're planning to 95 or 100," said Amy Irvine, a certified financial planner at Rooted Planning Group in Corning, New York. "Many of our retirees are still in great shape," she said. "They're living longer, and requiring resources for longer."

Stretching out clients' savings

Carolyn McClanahan, a CFP and director of financial planning at Life Planning Partners in Jacksonville, Florida, said too many advisors don't think about how long their clients could live. "If you have a client who lives a very healthy life, and especially if they have longevity in their family, you should be planning to age 100," McClanahan said. And sometimes the planning needs to go in the opposite direction, she said. "If you have clients who are absolutely not taking care of themselves, say they're obese and have diabetes and smoke, you shouldn't be using age 100 because you're going to make that person not enjoy their money because they're worried about running out," she said. Still, most clients are worried about outliving their savings. To help, McClanahan considers how much a client spends each year versus how much they'll have coming in from a pension, Social Security and a conservative rate of return on their savings.

We've had some clients say, 'I'm 80, how much longer am I going to live?' Amy Irvine certified financial planner at Rooted Planning Group

Some clients will have enough funds to last way beyond 100, she said, but it might be tighter for others. "That's when you have to have those deeper conversations about life expectancy," McClanahan said. Some clients don't realize how long they could live, Irvine said. "We've had some clients say, 'I'm 80, how much longer am I going to live?'" Irvine said. "They're thinking if they have another five years, they're lucky. "But we're thinking, you're really healthy, you could easily live another 20 years." Although it's not a fun conversation to have, Irvine said she'll push some clients to find ways to reduce their spending to allow for that possibility. There are other options beyond cutting spending. McClanahan said she recommends immediate-fixed annuities to some of her clients who are at risk of depleting their savings.

Carolyn McClanahan Source: Carolyn McClanahan

"These are simple because there are no bells and whistles," McClanahan said. "You give the insurance company $100,000, and they pay you a set amount every month for the rest of your life. "If you die in five years, they win," she added. "If you live 40 more years, you win." In situations where chances are marginal that someone's going to have enough to retire on, "you want to create more guaranteed income stream in case they do start to run out of money," McClanahan added. In some cases, a clients' age will have little impact on their investing strategy, Irvine said. For example, those fortunate enough to have enough saved that they plan to leave money to children or charities may want that money invested more aggressively than you'd expect for someone whose own timeline is running out. "It's about the needs of the client," Irvine said.

Protecting their money

Older clients face extra risks that advisors need to plan for, McClanahan said. For example, she said that even though dementia is a common problem, "advisors stick their heads in the sand when it comes to cognitive decline." "It's so important to have an aging plan in place in advance," she said. McClanahan has her clients sign a letter giving her permission to speak to a trusted person if they start exhibiting signs that they may no longer be able to manage their finances. And she discusses with clients in advance where they might live if they develop dementia; some people want to stay in their homes, while others will want to move into an assisted living facility. To mitigate risks, Irvine said she also begins speaking to her clients about their later years long before they arrive at them. "The best time to be talking about these issues are when the mind and the body are good," Irvine said.

For example, she might ask a client in their 60s when they believe they should stop driving. (A car accident can not only be dangerous, it can lead to expensive lawsuits, too, Irvine said.) It's helpful to pinpoint such red flags before a client starts exhibiting them, she added. "There's a line you get to where you can't have those conversations anymore." Another concern? So-called grandparent scams are a huge risk to older people's money, said Robert Williams, vice president of financial planning, retirement income and wealth management at the Schwab Center for Financial Research. Fraud costs seniors nearly $3 billion a year, Williams said. And scammers have found new ways to target older people in the pandemic. "It's an advisors' role to watch out, and if they see any evidence of fraud or abuse in their older client, generally, they have to report that," she said.

And accounting for health-care expenses
Mahatma Gandhi, as this newspapers editorial said on October 2, 2019, to mark the beginning of his 150th birth anniversary celebrations, was the greatest Indian ever.

The breadth and transparency of his public engagements; the quality and duration of his public life where he extensively dealt with all the big questions of modern times; his core values of freedom, democracy, non-violence, truth, Hindu-Muslim unity, and individual dignity; his empathy, including for those who opposed him; his ability to construct an umbrella coalition of remarkable freedom fighters; and his belief in pluralism and peace has helped make India what it is today.

Also read: Gandhi: The chronicler

As we remember the Mahatma this year, it is time to return to the core ideas which made him what he was. To rediscover these, Hindustan Times returns to a set of sparkling essays published last year as a part of a series titled Gandhi: 150 Years On.

In her essay on Gandhi and modern political thought, academic Karuna Mantena wrote that Gandhi was both a man of action and a philosopher and the originality and depth of his political thought was closely connected to action.

It was a philosophy for popular politics in the street, maidan and village. Gandhis key innovation was, of course, the idea of satyagraha, which according to Mantena, was means for generating opportunities for persuasion and realignment rather than retrenchment and polarisation. It was central to his belief in the importance of means, and a way to build strength through deeds and action.

But what did satyagraha entail? The scholar David Hardiman wrote of how Gandhi disliked the term passive resistance  which is, all too often, mistakenly used to describe Gandhis methods since it suggested passivity.

Satyagraha  drawn from Satya (truth) and agraha (seizing or laying hold of)  was soul force, an attitude of mind. Gandhi fused this with ahimsa, non-violence  arguing not just for its ethical nature but also pointing to its tactical value, for violence would invite a draconian response from a vast, coercive imperial machinery. Gandhis movements saw this dialectic between mass participation in peaceful movements with occasional bouts of violence, which also led him to withdraw the movement altogether in some cases such as the Non-Cooperation Movement after the violence at Chauri Chaura. But Hardiman wrote, Gandhis method succeeded because of the relentless pressure it put on rulers  forcing them to give in to mass demands. This, then, became an example for other political and civil liberty movements across the world. In a separate essay, David Arnold wrote of how Gandhi stole Britains moral fire. Gandhi punctured the moral balloon of British rule in India and it never recovered from that spectacular deflation.

But Gandhi was engaged with not just the external battle with the colonial rulers, but the internal nature of Indian society, from the question of religion to caste, from an economic vision to the constructive work needed in Indian society. Take three examples.

Caste, economy, environment

Caste was a central preoccupation of Gandhis life. His views evolved on the issue  but it fundamentally came from a position of seeking reform in social attitudes, creating enabling conditions to encourage exchanges between members of different castes, taking on occupations seen as only the task of the lower castes, and striving for harmony  but within the broad Hindu social order. This is where his clash with BR Ambedkar, who saw it as a political issue and recognised the indispensability of representation, became most acute. Dhrubo Jyoti, in his essay, wrote of the Poona Pact where Amebdkar pushed for separate electorates for Scheduled Castes as formalised by the British after the second round-table conference  on the grounds that a joint electorate will rob the community of independent leadership. Gandhi resisted it through a fast, criticising their statutory separation even in a limited form, from the Hindu fold. Ambedkar finally had to relent, albeit reluctantly, acutely aware of the implications on Dalits if Gandhis life was compromised. The architecture of reservations for Dalits remains a legacy of this pact.

Also read: When Gandhi stood trial for sedition

How did Gandhian ideas extend to the economic realm? In a thoughtful essay, Niranjan Rajadhyakhsa wrote of how Gandhi offered a radically different path. He argued for an India of household production for local consumption...Independent India rejected the Gandhian option, while paying polite tributes to it. The roots of his economic ideas could be traced to ethical concerns, scepticism of modern technology, and belief in decentralised production as a way to offer dignity.

While his economic model may not have the same resonance, his views on the environment are perhaps more critical today than ever before  and there is a close linkage between the two in Gandhis views, as the world realises now in the midst of the climate crisis as a product of the relentless quest for growth. Venu Madhav Govindu in his essay acknowledged that Gandhi did not use the vocabulary of modern day environmentalism, but says, his way of living reflected environmental concerns.

This was most clearly reflected in his ashrams in Ahmedabad and Sewagram, but it went beyond that, for Gandhi understood the devastating economic consequences of the global commodity trade under colonialism. Over the decades, Gandhian activists have been at the forefront of some of Indias key environmental issues.

From the internal emotional and psychological drivers of human action to the community-building around a set of principles, from waging a non-violent but extraordinarily successful mass movement against the British Raj to envisioning a new free India and what it should look like, Gandhis worldview was vast, complex and nuanced. On his 151st birth anniversary, India can do no better than translate Gandhis ideals of simplicity, truth, non-violence, non discrimination and religious unity, and care for nature into reality.

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Top officials in the Trump administration are visiting Michigan to spread positive news about the president with a few weeks left until the 2020 election.

A parade of cabinet officials visited Michigan nearly a dozen times this summer to highlight how President Donald Trumps policies have benefited the state. The events werent organized by the presidents reelection campaign, but targeted several areas that were critical to Trumps 2016 victory in Michigan.
Two French journalists working for the French daily Le Monde have been seriously wounded in the fighting in Azerbaijans breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh, officials said on October 1.

President Emmanuel Macron said the French Foreign Ministry was working to organize the journalists repatriation as quickly as possible.

"A medical plane is ready to leave. We are doing everything to stabilize the wounded on the spot before allowing their evacuation," Macron said as he arrived in Brussels for a European Union summit.

However, the Nagorno-Karabakh region's foreign ministry said the two French journalists, in critical condition, had been operated on by local doctors and would be transported to the Armenian capital, Yerevan.

Armenias Foreign Ministry said that the two reporters were badly wounded in shelling by Azerbaijani forces in the town of Martuni. The ministry said that two Armenian journalists were also hit in the shelling.

Le Monde had earlier confirmed that a reporter and photographer working for the daily had been injured in a bombing by Azerbaijani forces.

Le Monde Chief Editor Luc Bronner told Reuters that a reporter and photographer had been wounded, but did not name the two.

AFP correspondents at the scene reported that several journalists were interviewing residents in Martuni and assessing damage from previous shelling when the bombing started.

The Azerbaijani side neither confirmed nor rejected the report.

Dozens of people have been killed and scores wounded in the heavy fighting between troops from Azerbaijan and ethnic Armenian forces that began on September 27.

Azerbaijan and Armenia have defied international calls for a cease-fire in the new escalation of the long-simmering conflict over the territory.

With reporting by AFP and Reuters
(CNN)  China is on the move again. As October 1 arrives, hundreds of millions of people are expected to pack highways, trains and planes for the National Day holiday, one of the busiest times for travel in the world's most populous country.

The eight-day Mid-Autumn Festival break is China's first major holiday since it emerged from the coronavirus outbreak. While life has largely returned to normal in recent months, the upcoming "Golden Week" holiday will be an ambitious test of China's success in taming the virus  and a much-awaited boost to its economic recovery.

Last year, a total of 782 million domestic trips were made during the holiday, generating nearly 650 billion yuan ($95 billion) of tourism revenue, according to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

The ministry predicts 550 million domestic trips to be made this year, while Ctrip, China's largest online travel agency, estimates the number to be over 600 million  both above 70% of last year's level.

The scale of mass movement in such a short period of time is unthinkable in many parts of the world, where governments are still struggling to control soaring infections. In the United States, the number of coronavirus cases topped 7 million over the weekend. Much of Europe is now in the grip of a second wave of infections; even countries largely spared by the first wave, such as Greece and Croatia, have seen cases surging as tourists took summer vacations following the reopening of Europe's internal borders in June.

But for now, the virus is much less of a concern for Chinese holidaymakers, given China's close to zero local transmission and some of the world's strictest border control measures.

Chen Qianmei, a 29-year-old from the southern city of Guangzhou, flew to Shanghai on Tuesday for her Mid-Autumn Festival vacation. She said she wasn't worried about the virus, although she still took precautions.

"I think China has (the virus) under pretty good control," she said. "I'm wearing masks and bringing alcohol wipes with me to clean my hands, especially before eating  although in Shanghai, few people wear masks now."

Show of confidence

The coronavirus, first detected in the central Chinese city of Wuhan last December before spreading across the globe, has been largely contained in China since March. In the following months, small-scale outbreaks have occasionally flared  from the country's northeast to the capital Beijing and the far western region of Xinjiang, but all were swiftly contained through stringent lockdown measures and mass testing programs.

China has not reported any locally transmitted symptomatic case since mid-August, and is rigorously screening overseas arrivals and workers at risk of exposure to the virus. Last week, it detected its first local asymptomatic infections in over a month, after two port workers unloading frozen imported seafood in Qingdao tested positive for the virus in routine screening.

The sense of control is in stark contrast to the anxiety and foreboding that had overshadowed China's last major travel period  the Lunar New Year holiday in late January. Back then, the coronavirus outbreak was sweeping through Wuhan after local authorities initially silenced healthcare workers trying to sound the alarm. Two days before Lunar New Year's Day, the Chinese government ordered an unprecedented lockdown on the city, but by then, the virus had already spread to other provinces and beyond the country, as hundreds of millions of Chinese people headed home for family reunions or took vacations overseas.

More than eight months on, China's restrictions on domestic movement have all been lifted. Officially, some cities still require passengers to produce a green health code on their smartphones at train stations and airports to show they're safe to travel, but implementation can be lax in practice.

In a sign of the government's confidence in keeping the virus under control, the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention said last week that domestic travels can be arranged "as normal" for the upcoming holiday, given all cities in mainland China are marked as low risk for the coronavirus.

But the center still recommended travelers obey local epidemic control measures, wear masks on trains, flights and in crowded places, and keep 1-meter (3.2 feet) distance at tourist spots  the last of which could be difficult if not impossible to observe, given the size of crowds that often inundate popular sites during Chinese holidays.

Last week, China's Culture and Tourism Ministry ordered tourist sites to restrict capacity to 75% during the Mid-Autumn Festival, up from a limit of 50% from previous months. To facilitate contact tracing, visitors are required to register online in advance.

Wu Zunyou, chief epidemiologist at the Chinese CDC, told state broadcaster CCTV earlier this month that there is no need to impose extra restrictions for domestic travel during the National Day holiday, because the coronavirus is no longer circulating in society.

"It is now impossible to contract the virus in social environments," he said. "Although we are still finding dozens of imported cases among travelers arriving in China on international flights, the imported cases are managed in a closed loop and won't spread to society, and therefore won't have much impact on domestic residents."

Domestic travel boost

Chinese authorities  including the Chinese CDC and foreign ministry  have urged Chinese citizens to avoid unnecessary overseas travel, citing the still-raging pandemic across the world.

The Golden Week holiday  the longest in China along with the Lunar New Year holiday  has traditionally seen middle-class Chinese travel abroad in large numbers. Last year, more than 7 million overseas trips were made during the holiday, with Japan and Thailand among the top destinations, government data showed.

But this year, overseas trips will be practically impossible to make, given the various visa restrictions and quarantine requirements imposed around the world, as well as a lack of international flights. Upon their return to China, travelers must also face two weeks of strict quarantine  with at least half of the time required to be spent in government-appointed hotels.

The only exception is Macau, which waived quarantine requirements in July for mainland travelers who obtained a negative test result for coronavirus within seven days. Last week, mainland China fully resumed tourist visas for the semi-autonomous region, just in time for the National Day holiday.

As Chinese holidaymakers turn to domestic destinations, local governments are competing to attract tourists. According to Ctrip, more than 20 provincial and municipal governments have issued travel vouchers, while some 1,500 tourist spots across China have offered free or discounted tickets.

China's railway operator, China State Railway Group, expected a total of 108 million train rides from September 28 to October 8. To cope with the increased Mid-Autumn Festival demand, an additional 1,200 trains have been added to service, but some tickets along popular routes have been snapped up anyway.

Some flights have also sold out. Qunar, a Chinese online travel booking site, estimated more than 15 million domestic flight tickets would be sold for Golden Week, a 10% increase from 2019, partly due to a drop in the price of airfares.

And on Chinese highways, massive traffic jams are expected again this year. An average of 51 million highway trips per day are expected during the eight-day holiday, a 1% to 3% increase from last year, according to the Transport Ministry.

Wuhan, the original epicenter of the outbreak, has become a popular destination for Chinese tourists since its lockdown was lifted in April. Last month, Hubei province, of which Wuhan is the capital, announced that nearly 400 of its tourist attractions would be open for tourists for free until the end of the year. On a booking platform set up by the province since the announcement, more than 3.74 million tickets for tourist sites in Wuhan were booked in just over a month, according to the state-run Hubei Daily.

The Yellow Crane Tower, a famous landmark of Wuhan, topped the list of the most sought-after attractions for Golden Week, according to Ctrip.

This was first published on CNN.com "China contained Covid-19. Now, hundreds of millions of people there are about to go on vacation at the same time"
Boston and the surrounding area were the scene of the most memorable moments in the early years of the American Revolution. The city was a crucible for the rising American spirit of independence, from which the revolution against overbearing British taxes and colonial oppression was born. Ultimately, after years of struggle, America achieved independence.

Now, America has also achieved energy independence, but few in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and the entire New England region would recognize it, especially considering that in 2018 a tanker carrying Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) docked in Boston Harbor, providing desperately needed fuel to power and heat homes during a winter cold snap.

This development seemed strange to many, especially since the United States is the worlds leading producer of natural gas. The Appalachian Region, just several hours drive southwest, is home to such abundant natural gas reserves that if it were a country, it would be the worlds third largest producer of the fuel.

How did it come to this? How is it that a city nicknamed the birthplace of the American Revolution needed Russian fuel to meet its winter power needs? How is it that as countries in Eastern Europe are desperate to reduce their reliance on Russian gas and the geopolitical muscle that often comes with it, the U.S. was importing it?

The answer is simple: Plans to build the critical energy infrastructure necessary to benefit from our Nations abundant natural resources have been routinely blocked or delayed, at least in some parts of the country, by radical environmentalists, activist judges, and opportunistic politicians. Decisions to stop or slow down new energy infrastructure, like portions of the Access Northeast Pipeline project, are cheered as a win for the environment and for energy consumers.

But blocking these projects is a win for neither the environment nor consumers.

The Trump Administration, as part of a true American energy policy, supports expanding natural gas pipeline development in a safe and responsible way to provide consumers choice, affordability, and reliability. Doing so will also create more jobs and contribute to meeting emissions reduction and environmental goals.

First, increasing domestic natural gas infrastructure and use will provide consumers more choice and make energy more affordable. States in New England that have blocked the development of energy infrastructure pay some of the highest energy rates in the country for their homes and businesses. In fact, according to the Global Energy Institute, families in the Northeast pay, on average, 44% more for residential electricity than other regions. Meanwhile, states like Texas, Pennsylvania, and the Dakotas that produce natural gas, and the nearby states that use it, pay some of the lowest rates in the country and continue to enjoy clean air and a healthy environment.

Next, maintaining a diverse mix of fuels, including natural gas, ensures energy reliability in the event of a weather emergency. The bomb cyclone winter storm that struck New England in 2018 caused a major spike in heating demand that, according to a National Energy Technology Laboratory report, could not have been met without power from our most dependable baseload energy sources.

Finally, using natural gas will continue to help America maintain its global leadership in clean air, including energy-related carbon dioxide emissions. In fact, our Nations air quality has improved by 77 percent over the last 50 years, including 7 percent under the Trump Administration. As the cleanest of the fossil fuels, natural gas should play a large role in our energy future. But we need the pipelines and other energy infrastructure to reap the consumer and environmental benefits of our abundant natural gas reserves.

During the 1970s, the United States experienced what happens when a country relies on foreign nations for energy: fuel shortages and price increases. As a result, we set out to become energy independent by using our domestic resources to meet our energy needs.

And we succeeded. The U.S. began this year once again as the worlds leader in oil and natural gas production, no longer defenseless against energy disruptions and political volatility around the world.

Yet we risk a repeat of past experiences if we refuse to develop the energy infrastructure needed to unlock our full energy potential. This Administration is committed to expanding pipeline development that will unleash our abundant domestic energy sources while providing choice, affordability, and reliability to consumers.

Dan Brouillette is the United States Secretary of Energy.


WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - With the expiration of US federal payroll program on September 30, American Airlines Group Inc. and United Airlines are starting to furlough their employees Thursday, that is expected to affect around 32,000 workers in total.



However, the companies in their memos to employees reportedly said they will be recalled if and when the Congress passes another financial lifeline to the airline industry.



American Airlines is set to furlough 19,000 employees, as announced in August. This includes around 1,600 pilots. Meanwhile, United Airlines plans to furlough more than 13,000 employees, but no pilots. This week, United Airlines pilots approved a deal to avoid furlough of thousands of pilots at least until June 2021.



The airlines had received aid under the federal Payroll Support Program or PSP under the CARES Act passed by Congress in March, that banned furloughs. They were hoping for an additional $25 billion in funding to help them maintain their payrolls.



However, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin is yet to reach a deal with the Congress, and it could take more time to win the support to pass the agreement.



Meanwhile, reports said that Mnuchin has urged airlines to delay job cuts as he continue talks on the bill.



In a memo to employees, American Airlines CEO Doug Parker reportedly said that the airline has no choice but to cut jobs after it failed to get more federal aid.



United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby also said in a memo that the decision to cut 13,000 jobs marked a very sad day for all at United. 'We implore our elected leaders to reach a compromise, get a deal done now, and save jobs,' Kirby wrote.



In late August, American Airlines had announced plans to cut about 19,000 employees when the US federal aid expires in October. In June, the company had warned around 25,000 employees, which is about 20% of its total workforce, about the possibility of furloughs.



United Airlines in September had announced its plans to furlough 16,370 employees in October. The potential furloughs was fewer than 36,000 jobs loss the airline warned of in July.



The coronavirus pandemic, which continues to wreak havoc on the travel and tourism industry, has impacted employees at many other airlines including Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines.



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NDI Integration with Microsoft Teams Opens Up Production Opportunities

Each discrete Teams caller separates out as an NDI source to be added to any production

Bergen, Norway( )

NDI, part of the Vizrt Group along with NewTek and Vizrt brands, today announced that NDI technology is integrated with Microsoft Teams, making it a key part of any video production workflow. With video dominating communication on a global scale, the addition of NDI to Teams allows for versatile video workflows through a Teams meeting. Broadcast engineers can access the video feed of the Teams meeting participants, the screensharing feed, and Together Mode. NDI and Teams offers the ultimate in production flexibility, allowing video content producers to move video  and move the world.

Microsoft Teams is the forerunner of video conferencing technology globally. Integrating NDI into Teams dramatically expands the visual storytelling power of the platform, commented Michael Namatinia, president of NDI for the Vizrt Group. As we all seek to expand and refine our video capabilities, NDI combined with Teams gives storytellers a new frontier of creative possibilities waiting to be explored.

NDI is the most widely adopted IP-based video delivery standard in the world. The integration of NDI into Teams offers a high quality, seamless transition from any video stream. Single or multiple Teams meeting attendees can easily be added into any production, each as unique a camera source.

Learn more about using NDI with Microsoft Teams by watching the NDI.tv episode dedicated to this integration.

For more information please visit http://www.ndi.tv

About NDI:

NDI is a free protocol for video over IP, enabling better video for everyone. NDI software is in the hands of millions of customers worldwide, creating an interconnected community of storytellers. NDI allows individuals and organizations to access the benefits of IP-based, software-defined visual storytelling for a fraction of the cost of other complimentary IP protocols.

NDI is part of the Vizrt Group, alongside its sister brands, Vizrt and NewTek. NDI follows the single purpose of this Group; more stories, better told. www.ndi.tv

About Vizrt Group

Vizrt Group is the worlds leading provider of visual storytelling tools for media content creators in the broadcast, sports, digital and pro-AV industries, helping them to build a better-informed world. The Group contains three of the strongest brands in the broadcast technology industry; NewTek, NDI and Vizrt. All three are united by a passionately held single, simple purpose; more stories, better told.

Vizrt Group is a global and diverse organization with over 700 employees from 52 different nationalities, operating in 30 offices worldwide. It is privately-owned by Nordic Capital Fund VIII. www.vizrtgroup.com

NDI Tools are a free resource that support both Mac and Windows machines.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 1)  National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. believes the US plane disguised as a Philippine aircraft while flying over the disputed Yellow Sea last week may have been testing Chinese forces.

Esperon offered this possible explanation on Thursday while the government awaits a response from the US Embassy. It asked Washington to confirm reports that a US Air Force plane used an identification code assigned to a Philippine aircraft.

The pilots are probably trying to test the reaction that would come from China and so the Chinese reacted and it came out in the news, Esperon said in an online forum. They could be trying really the capacity of China.

Esperon said those behind the ploy probably meant to be noticed as it is unusual for a Philippine aircraft to cross the Yellow Sea, located between mainland China and the Korean peninsula. China, North Korea and South Korea have overlapping claims in the area.

We stay usually within our domain air and maritime domain for our patrols, hindi napupunta dun sa (we do not go to the) Yellow Sea for surveillance or anything, Esperon said. This is why aviation trackers would be suspicious on the presence of a Philippine aircraft there, he said.

Esperon reminded the US government that such actions have implications that need to be discussed and settled. Nonetheless, we hope that this could be settled satisfactorily between the parties," he said.

Early this week, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana told CNN Philippines we have no way of ascertaining the widely reported incident. The information was reported by the South China Sea Strategic Situation Probing Initiative, a Beijing-based think tank, as well as aviation monitoring agency Aircraft Spots. It said US reconnaissance aircraft RC-135S used a Philippine-assigned hex code which was later reverted to the original code after completing its mission.

The International Civil Aviation Organization assigns a unique hex code to an aircraft for identification.

On September 18, the South China Sea Strategic Situation Probing Initiative also reported that for three consecutive days, it had spotted a US surveillance aircraft taking the hex codes of Malaysian planes near Chinas coast. In response to the incident, Gen. Kenneth Wilsbach, commander of the US Pacific Air Forces, maintained that American troops always follow the rules on international airspace.

On the other hand, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said it has been an "old trick" of the US military to electronically impersonate civil aircraft of other countries. He said the US has done it "more than a hundred times" over the South China Sea.
The idea for this website came from one of my visits to the Art Gallery of Ontario. When I saw the exhibition I fell in love instantly and I thought: I must create a memorial for this amazing artist, to show the world what awesome skills human beings have, and to inspire them in the same way I was at that moment.

Kathe's artwork is unbelievable, her paintings tell the story of the concept behind the drawing and transmit an extremely realistic atmosphere of the person, scene or object contained in art. The most impressive things are the rich details that you can notice in the paintings.

Storytelling Mechanism:

The core of the website is Kathe's artwork and her story, so I decided to use a timeline, which is the most conventional way to build this kind of storytelling. My goal was not just to tell the artist's story, but to create a mix using the texts and her artwork synchronously, providing the user with an experience to follow her artwork alongside her life journey.

Kathe Kollwitz: Timeline

For me, it was essential to produce a website with rich detail to match Kathe's drawing method. This kind of website (storytelling) could be considered boring, so I spent a good deal of time polishing the details and building micro-interactions with rich visual details, and avoided using too much text.

Cursor interactions / DrawSvg / Hover States

The highlight of this project is the draw section and the shape of the stroke achieved, which gives the user an opportunity to draw with the same style used by Kathe in her paintings.

The Process & Challenges

As mentioned above, the biggest challenge was replicating Kathe's painting shape style for the drawing section, and making sure that the user would get a similar experience when they were drawing. This feature was important for the website, in an attempt to give the user the feeling and sensation of being an artist - and at the end of everything, the user would be able to download their experience/drawing and keep it.

Playground of the website / drawing interaction.

If I could change or add something, I would explore in greater detail the paintings and sculptures made by Kathe. I tried not to use images on a large scale (very big) in order not to harm the website's loading and the smooth scroll provided for the website - ast unfortunately, Google Lighthouse was already complaining about the number of elements contained in the same page.

This website was a great learning experience, especially about Canvas and Animation on the scroll.

One of my main objectives, when I'm developing a website, is to implement something that I have never used/interacted with before, in order to keep learning and improving my skills. This website was a great learning experience, especially about Canvas and Animation on the scroll. I chose to use scroll interactions in order to practice and learn how to use the Intersection Observer and get BoundingClientRect works (two recent technologies in the Modern Javascript), usually used to build interactions on the user scroll. Both of them were extremely useful in the project, which you can play with a couple of animations based on the scroll.

Animations based on scroll.

Navigation System

The navigation was created by providing chapters of Kathe's life, at the beginning I was inclined to make pagination in the website, but the goal of this website was not to make the user spend a long time on it, but to make sure that they followed the artists life entirely and played around with the Draw Section.

Full screen menu navigation.

To represent the different chapters I decided to use the ink effect, one of my favorite effects which I believe perfectly matches the story atmosphere.

Background transition between chapters.

Technology

PugJS (php / html / transpiler)

Sass (css / transpiler)

ES6 with Babel.JS (javascript/ transpiler)

Canvas

The stack for this website, I used these languages:Libraries:CMS / Backend:

Before we finish I would like to highlight the animation at the beginning of the website. In the background of the preloader it is possible to very subtly see the lines drawing the word Kathe, I achieved this effect using Pearl Sequence and Canvas.

Background of the preloader.

Credits

Victor Costa is an internationally Awarded Front End Developer, who is completely in love with technologic interaction.
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A strong order book for the upcoming festive period has prompted most of Indias 14 passenger vehicle makers to crank up supplies to their dealers in September, leading to a year-high growth of 32 percent during the month.

Following the lifting of lockdown restrictions that were in place to check the spread of the Covid pandemic, car and SUV makers sold 293,100 units in wholesales during September compared to 234,100 units sold in the same month last year.

Though this is the highest growth in any month so far this year, dealers tend to stock up in the run up to the festive period which starts just after the middle of October. August had seen the first double-digit growth of the year, coming just five months after the industry recorded its first-ever zero sales in a month.

Car market leader Maruti Suzuki led the rebound , with a growth of 34 percent to 147,912 units in September. Mini and compact segment cars comprising Alto, S-Presso, Swift and Baleno grew by 47 percent.

Hyundai Motor India posted a slightly lower growth than the industry at 24 percent with sales of 50,313 units as against 40,705 units sold in the same month last year. New Creta, Venue and Nios generated demand for the Korean brand.

In the changing business environment, the green shoots of recovery are clearly visible with sales improving on a month-on-month as well as year on year basis," Hyundai Motor India's Director (Sales, Marketing & Service) Tarun Garg said in a statement.

Following its policy of not disclosing monthly numbers, Tata Motors did not announce sales for September. But market sources indicated that September saw the Mumbai-based companys sales cross the 20,000 mark for the first time in many months, thereby further cementing its position in the third place. Tata Motors is believed to have clocked sales of 21,200 units in September, up 162 percent from 8,097 units sold in the same month last year.

Basis just two models  Sonet and Seltos - Kia Motors retained the fourth spot, clocking sales of 18,676 units, a growth of 147 percent during September as against 7754 units sold in the same month last year. Kia also sells the luxury van Carnival in small numbers.

This is also Kias highest-ever monthly sales since it drove into the country a year ago. The Sonet has clocked bookings of more than 35,000 till date. Kookhyun Shim, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Kia Motors India, said, The Indian auto market is recovering at a better-than-expected pace and we are progressing as per our defined plan.

Home-grown SUV specialist Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) unveiled the renewed Thar during August and has been building up production volumes since then. Among the top five manufacturers, M&M recorded the lowest volume growth of just 4 percent at 14,857 units during September.

Even companies with a much smaller share such as Skoda benefited from the demand revival. The Czech brand clocked a growth of 7 percent during September, selling 1,328 units.

Speaking to Moneycontrol, Zac Hollis, brand director, Skoda Auto India, said, We have pending booking orders of 1,500 units mostly for the Rapid. We have not seen this kind of a demand since 2018.

Despite the launch of its new model Urban Cruiser, Toyotas volumes slumped 20 percent during September. The Bengaluru-based maker of Innova and Fortuner sold 8,116 units during September, much lower than 10,203 units sold in the same month last year.
Even teleprompter could not take so many lies: Rahul's dig at PM Modis Davos speech

Farm laws: Rahul Gandhi to hold tractor rallies in Punjab, Haryana from Oct 3-5

India

oi-Ajay Joseph Raj P

Chandigarh, Oct 01: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will hold tractor rallies in Punjab and Haryana from October 3 to 5 to protest against the Centre's new farm laws, the party said.

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary and in-charge of Punjab affairs, Harish Rawat, Pradesh Punjab Congress Committee president Sunil Jakhar, and all state ministers and Congress MLAs will join the protests, "to give voice to the angst and pain of the farmers, whose livelihood and future has been put at stake by the central legislations."

Police pushed, lathicharged and threw me to ground, claims Rahul Gandhi in Hathras

According to a Punjab Congress spokesperson, the tractor rallies are expected to be supported by farmers' organisations and will cover more than 50 kms over three days. The rallies are scheduled to begin at around 11 am on each of the three days, and will be conducted amid strict COVID-19 protocols, said the spokesperson.

On October 3, the protest rally will cover a total distance of 22 km, starting with a public meeting at Badni Kalan (Nihal Singh Wala, Moga), before moving through Lopon (Nihal Singh Wala). The rally will then move into Jagraon (Ludhiana), where it will be received at Chakar, Lakha and Manoke, culminating eventually in a public meeting Jattpura (Raikot, Ludhiana), said the spokesperson.

Hathras gang-rape case: Rahul Gandhi detained on way to Hathras, questions police 'on what grounds'

On October 4, Rahul Gandhi will travel by car to Bhawanigarh for a public meeting, before embarking on tractors to Samana (Patiala), where receptions will be held at Fatehgarh Chhana and Bahmna, before ending the day with a public meeting at grain market in Samana.

Hathras sealed ahead of Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi's visit|Oneindia News

On October 5, the protest will begin from Dudhan Sadhan (Patiala) with a public meeting, and the tractors will then travel 10 kms to Pehowa border, from where Rahul Gandhi will enter Haryana, for a series of programmes there, said the spokesperson.

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Story first published: Thursday, October 1, 2020, 16:18 [IST]
Nuala and Jarlath Walsh weren't even looking to move when they came across the site for Siasa House high up in the Castlequarter area of Cratloe, 15 minutes' drive from Limerick city.

"We were out for a drive on a beautiful, sunny Sunday afternoon," says Nuala. "We spotted the sign and followed the road up. Once we saw the site, with Ballintea Castle in the field beside it, and views of Bunratty Castle, the Shannon Estuary and the miles and miles of rolling hills, we were sold. We named the house Siasa as a nod to Siasa McNasarat who built Ballintea in the late 15th century."

That was back in 2017, and the Walshes wasted no time in acquiring the site and securing planning permission.

Neither Nuala nor Jarlath is involved in construction - she is a PhD student of psychology at Mary Immaculate in Limerick and he works in logistics at Shannon Airport - but having built another house a decade earlier, they had the confidence to go the self-build route.

"I've always been very interested in architecture and design," says Nuala. "I spend a lot of time on Pinterest! I knew exactly the style of house I wanted. The last house that we built was Georgian in style, and we were after something bolder and more contemporary this time.

"I was influenced by the houses we saw on a trip to Australia and New Zealand. They were full of light, airy and open-plan, with big windows to make the most of the views. The light here is phenomenal and having lots of glass makes the very best of what we have, whatever the weather."

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In securing planning permission, Nuala worked with Pat Hogan Design Consultants in Ennis, and engineering consultant Aidan Fitzgerald, in Doolin, as well as a BER consultant.

"Much of the design is dictated by the site itself," says Nuala. "It has an A3 rating, thanks in part to the placement of the windows as advised by the BER consultant. We wouldn't have got planning permission without it being A3, now a new-build has to be A2. There is huge solar gain and from March to October the house heats itself. We also have a mechanical heat recovery ventilation system, double-glazing and AluClad external doors."

The construction process went smoothly, with the couple happy to be able to use a number of skilled local craftsmen during the build.

"It was seamless" says Nuala, "and I was very happy with the quality of the build.

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Nuala, Jarlath and their three sons moved in two years ago.

One enters Siasa through tall gates, with parking for several cars on the driveway as well as in a detached garage. The site extends to half an acre, including a concrete terrace adjacent to the kitchen.

The house is arranged with the front door on the north side of the house, with the kitchen and two of the bedrooms to the back, facing south and opening out on to the terrace. An L-shaped hallway has 3m ceilings and leads to the living room, kitchen and the four bedrooms.

The kitchen has a high vaulted ceiling and its centrepiece is a 3m island unit with a Silestone countertop and recessed Franke sink and taps, which can seat up to eight people. The space is framed on one side by a custom-designed kitchen with integrated Neff appliances.

"The kitchen is the heart of the house," says Nuala. "I love the bay window overlooking the view and the way the sliding doors open out on to the terrace. If it's sunny you could be in the Bahamas. Most days we are able to have coffee outside on the terrace."

The separate living room features a glass-fronted, log-burning Stovax cassette fireplace framed on either side by low, horizontal windows and bespoke floating shelving. A well-designed utility room adjacent to the kitchen features sleek handle-less cabinetry and access to a large attic space for storage.

Two of the four bedrooms are on the eastern side of the house, beside the family bathroom, with its power shower. Both have generous fitted wardrobes.

A third opens on to the terrace, while the main bedroom is connected to its en-suite bathroom via a dressing room with fitted closets. The en-suite has both a power shower and a luxurious 180cm oval bathtub, framed on three sides by glass.

"We like the Scandinavian aesthetic," says Nuala, "and we tried to bring that feel to the interior of the house. We paid a lot of attention to detail and considered everything before making design decisions. We wanted it to be simple and elegant and I think we have achieved that."

Although the house feels very private, thanks to its elevated position, it is not remote and there are neighbours nearby even though only the roofs of their houses are visible from Siasa.

"We have absolutely loved living here and it has been very convenient for our two older sons, who have recently graduated from the University of Limerick," says Nuala. "But now we have decided to move closer to where our youngest son is in school."

Will they be taking on another self-build? "We haven't decided," says Nuala. "But you never know."

Era: 2018

Size: 233sqm

Agent: Sherry FitzGerald O'Donovan (061) 361 905

Viewing: By appointment

4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh (R) and UK Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs and First Secretary of State Dominic Raab in Hanoi on September 30 (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi  Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh held talks with UK Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs and First Secretary of State Dominic Raab in Hanoi on September 30, during which they agreed on joint efforts towards a higher level of the bilateral strategic partnership.



Minh welcomed Raabs official visit to Vietnam on September 29-30, which takes place at a special time when the two countries are celebrating 10 years of their strategic partnership, believing that the trip will create new momentum for the bilateral relations.



He affirmed that Vietnam always considers the UK a leading important partner and highly values the latters role on the international arena.



For his part, Raab expressed his delight at his first visit to Vietnam and that he is the first European politician to come to the Southeast Asian nation since the COVID-19 pandemic broke out.



The UK Government wants to effectively promote the strategic partnership with Vietnam, and it also appreciates Vietnams increasingly important role and position in the Asia-Pacific and Southeast Asian regions, he stressed.



At the talks, both officials noted with satisfaction that since the Vietnam-UK diplomatic ties were founded in 1973, especially since the establishment of the strategic partnership in 2010, the bilateral cooperation has been developing extensively and effectively.



They underlined the determination to build a new vision for the Vietnam-UK ties for the next 10 years and make joint efforts to develop the strategic partnership to a higher level.



They agreed to build plans to resume all-level delegation exchanges when possible and increase substantive content in cooperation mechanisms, especially the security-defence strategic dialogue, the joint committee on economic, trade and investment cooperation, and the defence dialogue.



The two sides shared the view that their countries economic links have grown impressively, with bilateral trade hitting 6.6 billion USD in 2019 and the UKs direct investment in Vietnam reaching 3.7 billion USD.



The officials also agreed to facilitate partnerships between Vietnamese and UK businesses and investors, particularly in the areas the UK has strengths and Vietnam has demand for like high technology, telecommunications, oil and gas, finance, banking, insurance, renewable energy development, and smart city building so as to help with post-pandemic growth recovery and make use of the shift of supply chains and investment.

The talks between the Vietnamese and UK officials in Hanoi on September 30 (Photo: VNA)

Minh acknowledged the UK Governments active support for the signing of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA).



Meanwhile, Raab thanked Vietnam for agreeing to apply this deal to the UK in the Brexit transition period, reiterating the countrys commitment to soon finalising the negotiation on an FTA between the two countries so that it can take effect early.



Besides, they discussed ways to enhance connections in important spheres such as security-defence, development cooperation, education-training, science-technology, sustainable development, people-to-people exchange, as well as cooperation between the two foreign ministries so as to help reinforce the strategic partnership.



They also spoke highly of Vietnam-UK cooperation at multilateral forums, especially when Vietnam concurrently serves as ASEAN Chair in 2020 and a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for 2020-2021.



The two countries will enhance coordination to boost the UKs ties with ASEAN and to prepare for the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) that the European nation will host next year.



At the talks, Minh and Raab also exchanged views on international and regional issues of mutual concern.



They emphasised their support for multilateralism, a rules-based regional and international order, and international coordination to cope with common challenges like maritime security, climate change, and the COVID-19 pandemic.



Both officials stressed the importance of maintaining peace, stability, security, safety and freedom of navigation and overflight, resolving disputes via peaceful measures, not using or threatening to use force, and respecting international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).



They voiced their support for the Chairmans Statement of the 36th ASEAN Summit and the joint communique of the 53th ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting, which affirm that the 1982 UNCLOS is the legal framework regulating all activities in the seas and oceans.



Concluding the talks, the two sides issued a Joint Declaration on the Vietnam-UK Strategic Partnership: Forging Ahead for Another 10 years.



Later on September 30, representing Vietnam as ASEAN Chair in 2020, Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh chaired an expanded troika meeting between ASEAN foreign ministers and their UK counterpart.



The Vietnamese official applauded the UKs active role in promoting dialogue and cooperation in the region, suggesting the two sides work together in developing and producing COVID-19 vaccines, improving healthcare capacity, ensuring supply chains, maintaining trade and investment connectivity, and encouraging UK businesses to operate in ASEAN.



Meanwhile, Raab affirmed the UKs support for ASEANs central role and highly valued the blocs achievements in the community building.



He also announced the UKs aid package worth 50 million GBP for ASEANs response to COVID-19.



The UK also proposed stronger cooperation in maritime security, the law of the sea, and climate change response.
While Victoria Beckham is best known for her eponymous fashion line and beauty brand, to 90s kids, shell forever be a Spice Girl. And for her latest beauty launch, Victoria is embracing her Posh Spice roots with a new lipstick collection.

Fittingly named Posh, the collection will include nine Spice Girls-inspired shades when it launches on Victoria Beckham Beauty on October 3.

Each lipstick will be priced at $38, and theres a perfect color match to channel all of the Spice Girls - whether you opt for the Baby-approved Pixi, a soft peachy nude, or Pop, a bright red that would surely be Gingers go-to.

Posh Spice / AFP/Getty Images

Of course, given that the collection was created by Posh Spice herself, there are several earthier tones, ranging from a softer nude like Spice to a rich copper brown like Fringe.

And if youre wondering which color Victoria gravitates to, shes already shared on Instagram that her go-to combination is Spice with Pout dabbed towards the center of the lips only (but first, she lines her lips with the Lip Definer in No. 2). Each shade will have the perfect liner to match, Victoria assured fans in her post after stating that the Posh lipstick collection has a creamy finish.

(Courtesy of Victoria Beckham Beauty)

Earlier this week, the Victoria Beckham Beauty Instagram account clued followers in on the big news before officially making an announcement on September 30.

I was given the name Posh in 1996 over lunch with Peter Loraine of Top of The Pops Magazine and the rest of the Spice Girls, Victoria wrote in a letter that was shared on VB Beauty. I cant say it wouldve been my first choice, but I ultimately grew into it on my own terms, she explained of how the iconic girl group got their names.

The Spice Girls (PA ) / PA

I was young and shy, and being Posh helped me find my style and confidence, and my voice. After the Spice Girls, I distanced myself from the nickname because it had unwavering momentum of its own, Victoria continued, adding that shes now more appreciative of her Posh Spice years.

Posh forever changed the course of my life, opening the door for me to go after my dreams. This week, I celebrate Posh with the launch of Posh Lipstick, Victoria confirmed of her brands next launch.



Lipstick has always given me confidence when I needed it and extra spice when I already had it. Each shade is inspired by a specific memory, and whilst the moments may have been my own, the energy and emotion is shared by us all.

Victoria signed off by writing, Posh is back, which was also the hashtag that VB Beauty used to tease the launch.



The hashtag first made its appearance alongside a clip from the Spice Girls 1997 movie, Spice World, where Posh could fittingly be heard describing a nightmare where she had a head, but there was no makeup on it. Let's just hope trying to buy one of the VB Beauty Posh lipsticks doesn't turn into a nightmare of its own.
HOLYOKE - Ever since Miguel Acevedo learned the importance of health and finances when he was studying at university, the desire to become a doctor of finances was born within him in order to help people establish better futures for themselves and their families through financial planning.

Acevedo has been a financial advisor and planner for Baystate Financial in Holyoke for the past 20 years and works with clients to help them financially plan for their future through different services provided by the corporation.

Acevedo said financial planning 20 years ago was very different from what is offered today.

The laws keep changing and ... the opportunities are much more than what we had 20 years ago, he said.

Both, the laws and the opportunities that the IRS allow today are different concepts that in the past were not available to be able to save money for the future, Acevedo said.

Baystate Financial offers a variety of services including providing life insurance, long-term care, disability insurance, business overhead expense protection, fixed and variable annuities, business income continuation, succession, and estate planning strategies, and much more according to its website.

Where you save money is actually more important than the money you are saving, said Acevedo.

Acevedo said that everyone must save for a purpose and for that they must first create a foundation, and that foundation begins by protecting oneself to cover the whole family, he said You have to plan just in case you dont make it home one day, your family will not be affected financially.

His first recommendation is to have a life insurance and then disability insurance. He said, You have to think that sometimes you get hurt and you dont die, but you cant work and the bills keep coming in and the cost of living keeps going up, so having disability insurance provides that security of being able to continue receiving an income."

As he explained, 70% of people who buy life insurance buy it to replace their salary. 30% of people buy it for final expenses ... and/or to pay taxes.

There is no right age to purchase life insurance. Acevedo said that the younger the person invests in life insurance, the cheaper it costs the monthly payment since to acquire life insurance you have to qualify.

His third recommendation is to have a reserve of money for emergencies. If your monthly expenses are $2,000 or $ 3,000 per month, the rule of thumb is that you should have saved at least 3 to 6 months of monthly expenses, saved in the bank, he said.

Despite the fact that many people live paycheck to check, Acevedo said that having permanent life insurance serves two purposes. In the event of sudden or tragic death, the family acquires the benefit and/or savings for the future, without having to pay taxes.

It is Acevedos desire to be able to offer workshops, either through Zoom or in person, in order to inform the Spanish-speaking community of this type of information. Acevedo also provides his client with a weekly magazine with financial tips and information.

I want to share with my people the knowledge of how they can prepare for the future," he said.

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CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Involta, an industry-leading hybrid IT, cloud computing and data center services company, is announcing major expansions at the company's data centers in Cleveland and Pittsburgh. Involta marked these expansions with a week-long "Edge to Innovation" celebration, along with customers, partners and industry influencers. The strategic expansions were driven by a surge in customer demand for edge data centers and critical infrastructure in the tech, manufacturing, healthcare and transportation sectors.

An uptick in demand in healthcare with anchor tenant MetroHealth was the key factor in adding new space at Involta's Cleveland data center . The recent expansion added 144 cabinets and 500kW in new power availability. The 23,000+ square foot facility in Independence is connected to Involta's Akron data center through a robust fiber ring that provides millisecond latency between the two sites.

"As MetroHealth continues to lead the way to a healthier community, Involta has been a tremendous strategic partner. They have helped ensure that the data center hosting infrastructure is secure and reliable. That enables our clinical team to focus on what truly matters  patient care and experience  24 hours a day, seven days a week," said Dave Fiser, Vice President and CIO, The MetroHealth System.

In Pittsburgh , the initial expansion was motivated by a global high-tech company that was looking to leverage a world-class data center for increased capabilities and reliability. Involta added 120 cabinets, bringing the total to 180 cabinets in the multi-tenant colocation space, and 500kW of new power availability at the 39,000+ square-foot, high-performance data center. The facility is served by redundant fiber optic connections featuring 24/7/365 critical monitoring, 24/7/365 secure access, environmental systems and controls and redundant back-up power.

To complete the projects, more than 7,000 hours were dedicated to HVAC, electrical and general construction in each location amid the pandemic. Keeping sustainability at the forefront, Involta also leveraged an innovative and sustainable new battery technology  lithium-ion  which is used on UPS units instead of Lead Acid Batteries.

"At Involta, we are increasing our critical power and infrastructure investments to stay in front of client demand in key markets," said Bruce Lehrman, CEO, Involta. "The rapid increase in data requirements from healthcare clients such as MetroHealth significantly expedited our need to expand our capacity and offerings to serve our clients better. You will continue to see Involta expand with new and improved offerings around Edge, enhanced security and hybrid cloud as we strive to partner with our customers to support nextgen business models."

To share in the celebration of our recent expansions, you can watch the exciting virtual launch, Edge to Innovation, featuring keynote speaker Dean Nelson, Chairman and Founder of Infrastructure Masons . For more information about Involta visit www.involta.com.

About Involta

Involta, an award-winning national IT service provider and consulting firm, orchestrates digital transformation journeys by using well-defined and rigorous processes to deliver hybrid cloud solutions, consulting and data center services tailored to their clients' business drivers. By pairing strategic consulting with the unique ability to leverage owned colocation facilities and infrastructure assets, Involta empowers businesses across the country with the security and reliability they require.

Involta's ongoing mission to help clients optimize performance begins with partnership. The personalized approach starts with understanding its clients' needs and earning their trust to ultimately deliver Superior Infrastructure and Services, Operational Excellence and People Who Deliver, in keeping with the brand promise. Involta provides clients with the power to transform their technology and the freedom to focus on their core business.

Media Contact:

JSA

1.866.695.3629

[email protected]

SOURCE INVOLTA, LLC

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BOISE  The youth pheasant hunting season runs from Saturday through Oct. 9. Youth ages 17 years and younger with an Idaho hunting license can participate in the youth pheasant hunt so long as they're accompanied by an Idaho licensed hunter age 18 years or older. Anyone 18 years or older can not hunt during the youth hunt.

For full rules on the hunt, see page 11 of the 2020-21 Idaho Upland Game, Turkey and Furbearer rules booklet.

Fish and Game in 2020 is expanding its pheasant stocking program throughout the state and now includes 22 locations  at least one in each region  most of which will be stocked for the youth hunt.

Pheasant hunting at these locations starts at 10 a.m. daily with one exception in the Clearwater Region.

Youth hunters do not need an Upland Game Bird Permit to hunt where birds are stocked, but they are required to wear hunter orange above the waist during the pheasant season while hunting at those locations. A hunter orange hat meets this requirement.

For a full list of areas where pheasants will be stocked and number of birds to be stocked, go to Pheasant Stocking Program's webpage at idfg.idaho.gov/hunt/pheasant/stocking and click on each location.

Young hunters who have never had a hunting license and have not taken hunter education can still participate in the hunt through Idaho's Hunting Passport Program.

Pheasant hunting for all ages starts Oct. 10 or Oct. 17, depending which part of the state you're in. There's map of pheasant zones on page 11 of the rules brochure.

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ACTON, MA  In the months following the death of Caroll Spinney, the puppeteer who brought Sesame Streets Big Bird to life, Mike Majors began to think about how the legacy of one of Actons most famous citizens could live on for years to come.

But when the coronavirus pandemic put any concrete plans for local community programs to honor Spinney's global influence on hold, Majors who serves on a four-person committee dedicated to honoring Spinneys accomplishments  kept coming back to the positive messages Spinney conveyed to children around the world through his towering yellow-feathered friend and how similar ideas could be shared around Acton.

The committee, which also includes Acton residents Karen Herther, Jennifer Friedman and Dean Charter,recently unveiled the Be Kind Acton campaign. The local effort led to the placement of more than 70 yard signs around town that include the image of Big Bird with a reminder for neighbors to simply be kind to one another. What started as an effort to have a handful of signs to be displayed around Acton has grown bigger than committee members could have ever imagined. Now neighboring communities like Maynard and Framingham have inquired about a campaign that has seen signs being displayed in dorm room windows at UMass and being shipped to bigger cities like New York and Chicago.

Weve been surprised and yet, not surprised because its such a positive message, Majors told Patch about the response to the campaign. The message kind of hits home and the timing was kind of perfect. People needed a positive message and they like it. Whats not to like about be kind?

Spinney, a 1951 graduate of Acton High School, died last December at the age of 85. The Sesame Workshop said that Spinney, who had moved to Connecticut, had lived for some time with Dystonia, a neurological disorder that impacts movement.

Caroll Spinney's legacy lives on following his death in 2019 (Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images)





According to an obituary in The Washington Post, Spinney was bullied during his school years because of his feminine name and big ears. Spinney, who was also the puppeteer behind the Sesame Street character Oscar The Grouch, once told The Post that the inspiration behind creating Big Bird  who stood 8-foot-2  came from the childhood memories of a man who stood only 5-foot-10.

Story continues

I was very insecure, shy, didnt know what to tell people, Spinney told The Post. One time my teacher was asked what puny was and she thought for a moment and said: Caroll. Hes puny. Its probably just as bad to be too big, like Bird.

The inspiration for the yard signs, Majors said, came from the belief that the "Be Kind" message is one that Spinney and his Big Bird character would have likely preached. Now, at a time when the coronavirus and various social issues and the political climate have brought a sense of negativity to people across the country, the sign campaign has helped to create smiles on a local and regional level, Majors said.

Yards signs from Acton's Be Kind campaign have attracted the attention of neighboring communities (photo courtesy of Mike Majors)





As he has driven around Acton, Majors said the presence of the signs has done his heart good and has reinforced the idea that members of the community and beyond are all living through difficult and uncertain times together. It also helps to create a legacy in Acton for Spinney, who was part of the Sesame Street team for 50 years after experiencing difficult times as a child in the town that is now hoping to continue his legacy.

I thought it was maybe a way to right a wrong and turn this into a positive, Majors said. Acton can maybe be known from now on as a positive thing with Caroll Spinney versus some of the issues he had with growing up in high school. It can be known for what a great message (Be Kind) can be.

He added: Were trying to repay (Spinneys) contributions to the world.

Majors said the campaign has drawn praise from Spinneys brother and sister and sister-in-law who live in Foxborough as well as his widow, Debra, who lives in Connecticut. Majors said that he and other committee members are now working on more permanent ways Spinney can be remembered in Acton and that may put the town on the map because of Spinney's contributions.

Efforts are underway to have Community Way renamed to Caroll Spinney Way, a project that Majors said has the support of the majority of Selectmen. Once a no-name thoroughfare that connects Rt. 27 to Massachusetts Rt. 111, the roadway is part of the Kelleys Corner improvement project that Majors said is expected to include a small park. Majors said he envisions one day seeing a sculpture of Spinney sitting on a park bench reading a story to children while Big Bird watches from behind being erected at a location that sits near where Acton High School once stood.

While time will be needed to get projects moving, Majors hopes the sign project will place plans in motion to recognize Spinneys contributions to the world after growing up in Acton. Majors said that neighboring communities have inquired about using similar yard signs in their towns. While Spinneys connection to Acton makes the local effort unique it to the town itself, the message driving the campaign extends well beyond the towns limits.

Theres nothing unique about the message, Majors said. The kindness message is universal.

This article originally appeared on the Acton Patch
Daytime television fans love General Hospital. Some loyal fans have been watching the series since it began in 1963. The series has aired over 14,000 episodes and is currently the longest-running American soap opera currently in production.

The popular show won 13 Daytime Emmy Awards, and it has been praised for raising awareness of numerous social issues. In over 50 years on the air, General Hospital has given viewers incredible characters, creative storylines, and unforgettable surprises. A favorite character recently made a reappearance on the show, and fans are going absolutely crazy with excitement.

(L-R) Emma Samms (Holly) and Nathan Parsons (Ethan) | Rick Rowell/ Getty Images

Who is Holly Sutton Scorpio?

Holly Sutton Scorpio has been a major part of General Hospital since 1982. The character is portrayed by Emma Samms, who has left and returned to the show numerous times. Samms most recently returned after a five-year gap, when Holly was believed to be dead.

Holly was a con artist when she came to Port Charles, and met her first love, Luke Spencer when she was trying to scam him. She also became involved with Robert Scorpioboth men played a large part in her life. She was pregnant with Lukes child when he was trapped in an avalanche and believed to be dead.

Holly was in danger of being deported, so Robert offered to marry her to help her with the baby and keep her in the country. The two married, and then Holly lost the baby. However, the two grew closer. Although they originally married just to help Holly, they ended up falling in love.

Eventually, Luke returned and was upset to see that his best friend had married the woman he loved. Holly was torn between the two men, but realized that she really only loved Robert. Holly and Robert became one of the most beloved couples in the history of daytime television.

The lovebirds ran into some trouble when Roberts ex-wife, Anna Devane, showed up. Robert discovered that he had a daughter, Robin. Holly and Robert worked through all of these problems, though, and moved to Australia. Unfortunately, Robert returned to the states a couple of years later with sad news about Holly.

Did Holly almost die in the show?

RELATED: General Hospital Fans Cant Stand One of the Shows Long-Running Traditions

Holly was presumed dead on two separate occasions. Once after a car accident, when she was in a coma for two years. Hollys family didnt tell Robert about the coma. By the time she came back, he was married to Anna Devane. She didnt want to ruin his new relationship, so she didnt tell him she was alive.

She was thought to be dead a second time, having drowned on a sunken ship. Robert was suspicious of Hollys alleged death, so he investigated what really happened to her ship. He is told that Holly had been held prisoner in Monaco, but had been killed when she was uncooperative. He finds a burned body with her wedding ring on top, and believes she is dead.

When Robert is at Hollys memorial, he receives a cryptic phone call that sounds like Hollyshe begs him to find her and help her. In a shocking recent episode, viewers later see that Holly is alive and being held captive somewhere, according to Soaps.

Did fans really believe she was dead?

Many fans refused to believe that Holly was really dead. She is such an iconic part of the show, theyd have a very hard time letting go. Plus, this wasnt the first time shed disappeared from the show for a while. Its not even the first time shes been presumed dead.

They do have a lot of questions, though. Why is someone holding Holly hostage, and who could it possibly be? Is it related to Robert somehow, or did Holly just get involved with the wrong people? Who was the burned body that people believed to be Holly? Fans are super excited to find out what surprises General Hospital has in store for them next.
A sign marks the headquarters of Moderna Therapeutics, which is developing a vaccine against COVID-19, in Cambridge, Mass., on May 18, 2020. (Brian Snyder/Reuters, File Photo)

Moderna CCP Virus Vaccine Wont Be Ready Until Spring 2021: CEO

Moderna CEO Stephane Bancel said on Sept. 30 that the U.S. biotech firms CCP virus vaccine most likely wont be ready for widespread public distribution until spring 2021.

The Massachusetts-based company also wont be ready to apply for emergency authorization for its potential vaccine until Nov. 25 at the earliest, Bancel told the Financial Times.

Nov. 25 is the time we will have enough safety data to be able to put into an EUA file that we would send to the FDA [Food and Drug Administration]assuming that the safety data is good, i.e. a vaccine is deemed to be safe, he told the newspaper.

The company said previously that it could seek emergency authorization for a vaccine as soon as Nov. 1.

Moderna didnt immediately respond to a request for comment from The Epoch Times.

The companys experimental vaccine is among the leaders in the race to develop a safe and effective vaccine to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic. The candidate is currently being tested in a large decisive trial.

The race to come up with a vaccine has become a divisive issue for the Nov. 3 presidential election and was of significant importance in the presidential debate on Sept. 29 between President Donald Trump and Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden.

Were weeks away from a vaccine, Trump told moderator Chris Wallace. Ive spoken to Pfizer, Ive spoken to all of the people that you have to speak toModerna, Johnson & Johnson, and others. They can go faster than that by a lot.

Besides Moderna, American pharmaceutical company Pfizer and multinational AstraZeneca are also conducting large-scale final-stage trials in the United States for potential CCP virus vaccines.

Modernas experimental vaccine, mRNA-1273, like Pfizers, is based on messenger RNA, meaning it relies on segments of genetic material delivered into cells to help stimulate an immune response.

While the technology can be used to fast-track a vaccines development over other methods, a setback of mRNA vaccines includes needing to store and distribute them at cold temperatures to prevent them from degrading.

According to Biopharmadive, Pfizers mRNA vaccine needs to be transported at -94 degrees Fahrenheit, while Moderna has an edge, but still requires conditions at -4 degrees Fahrenheit for transport.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention officials previously told the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices that these requirements will make it very difficult for community clinics and local pharmacies to store and administer.

AstraZenecas vaccine is based on an adenoviral vector and requires only refrigeration.

The Trump administration reached a deal last month to secure 100 million doses of Modernas vaccine candidate. The government will pay the company $1.525 billion. The price per dose comes to about $30.50 for a two-dose regimen.

The news comes weeks after Bancel said the company could know whether its vaccine candidate is effective by the end of this month.

Reuters contributed to this report.
Real estate tokenization Hashcash The advent of blockchain technology has brought forth the opportunity to reform the property industry and create better investment opportunities within the sector.

Global pioneers in blockchain-based real estate solutions, HashCash Consultants is working with a Singapore based leading real estate enterprise. They are going to help the later by extending their expertise in real estate tokenization through a DLT platform to facilitate fractional ownership of properties.

HashCash has its very own real estate tokenization platform that comes with a plethora of advanced attributes, streamlining and reforming property management and related operations. They will build a similar platform for the partner company so that they can make use of the benefits of property tokenization within their business infrastructure.

Speaking about blockchains disruption of the property business, CEO of HashCash Consultants, Raj Chowdhury commented, The traditional architecture of the real estate industry lags in technological aspect, considering that it deals with the largest asset class in the world. The advent of blockchain technology has brought forth the opportunity to reform the property industry and create better investment opportunities within the sector. Real estate tokenization is one of the many beneficial aspects of blockchain integration that is poised to bring a landmark change in the approach towards real estate investments in the coming days. Our endeavours are directed towards the acceleration of real estate modernization through blockchain integration.

Real estate tokenization is a unique use case of blockchain within the property business realm. It allows fractional ownership of property, meaning that more than one person or entity can claim ownership of a single property. In this process, the estate is equally divided into multiple shares, with the same value, and tokenized to be sold on a blockchain-based platform.

Tokenization of property lowers the financial barrier of entry in a real estate investment opportunity, allowing investors with even small capital support to claim partial ownership of the property. It not only helps raise the value of the property but helps in equal distribution of profit from the property as well as equality in maintenance charges as well.

HashCash Consultants will be helping the Singaporean partner enterprise, leverage the power of HC Net (HashCashs blockchain network) and develop a tokenization platform where the estates can be divided and tokenized to be presented and sold to potential investors.



About HashCash Consultants:

HashCash is a global software company offering solutions in Blockchain, AI, Big Data and IoT through its platforms, products & services. HashCash Blockchain products enable enterprises to move assets across borders in real-time for Remittances, Trade Finance, Payment Processing and more. HashCash runs US-based digital asset exchange, PayBito & Digital asset payment processor, BillBitcoins. HashCash offers crypto exchange solutions, Payment processor software, ICO services and customized Blockchain use case development. It propels advancement in technology through Blockchain1o1 programs and its investment arm, Satoshi Angels. HashCash solves the toughest challenges by executing innovative digital transformation strategies for clients around the world.
01.10.2020 LISTEN

The Greater Accra Zango Chief, Sarki Yahaya Hamisu Baako, over the weekend joined other prominent members of the society paying tribute to the late Emir of Zazzau of Kaduna State in Nigeria, Shehu Idris by signing the book of condolence in his honour.

The Accra Zango Chief signed the book of condolence at a short meeting which was specially arranged for him and the Nigerian High Commissioner at the Embassy in Accra.

Addressing the media at the sideline of the event, Sarki Hamisu Baako, stated that may the death of Zazzau Chief bring peace and honour to the people of Zazzau, Zaria in Kaduna State and other Hausa Chiefs around the World and may his kindness and support to humanity, peace and dedication be emulated by all Chiefs in Nigeria and Africa.

Briefing the media on how the people of Hausa migrated from Nigeria to Ghana to establish Zango, Alhaji Mohammed Ashkah a cabinet member of Greater Accra Zango Chief revealed that the people of Hausas can be traced in the entire Northern Nigeria and migrated into Ghana and other Africa Countries.

According to him, history has it that Hausa people are the largest ethnic group, not only in Nigeria, but also in the entire West Africa.

This among others he said call for the need for them to express their condolences to the late Chief of Zazzau to tight the relationship between their brothers Nigeria.

In attendance were Chief of Zanfara Community, Zango Chief of Ablekuma Agape Gone, Emir Sharif Adam (Sarki Gadafi) and host of others.
Until April this year and the arrest in France of high-profile Rwandan fugitive Felicien Kabuga, 85, the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (IRMCT) was one of several dusty relics  elegantly named residuals  of the heady days when cooperation led to the establishment of internationally-backed accountability mechanisms. These residuals deal with, for example, contested trials, prisoners requesting early release, and witnesses still in need of protection.

They were seen even by those continuing to represent clients there, like lawyer Peter Robinson, as a very moribund institution. Every six months, its president reported to the UN Security Council about  essentially  the progress his body has made towards the ultimate goal of shutting itself down, acknowledging the UNSCs 2010 promise of a small, temporary and efficient structure, the functions and size of which will diminish over time. That temporary structure has extended since the closure of the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) in 2017 and the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR) in 2015 into 11 years on the job.

But there was light! With the successful tracking of the richest man in Rwanda in his time, long indicted by the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR) for his role in the 1994 genocide, the Mechanism has taken on a new shine and the prospect of work for many years more. And the acknowledgement, yesterday September 30, by a French appeal court that the Arusha-based part of the UN body will take him to trial, confirms this positive outlook for the soon to increase by 10 % number of staff working in its Office of the Prosecutor.

Recommended reading Felicien Kabuga, 23 years on the run... and whats next?

Swish new courtroom in Arusha

When it closed, eight Rwandan fugitives were still left on the ICTR docket. Among them, five dossiers went to Rwandan national courts. But the Mechanism retained three. One of them, Augustin Bizimana, is now conclusively proved dead after new ways of testing his remains were used. Another, Protais Mpiranya, has the prosecutor complaining about lack of cooperation from Zimbabwe and the trade in false passports various unnamed African governments need to crack down on.

The third, former businessman Kabuga, is indeed the Mechanisms prize. A swish new courtroom in Arusha  more than 8.7 million dollars worth  is intended as his destination, despite his fragile state of health. But Covid-19 fears that may put such a transfer on hold may only add to the many delays expected in this process.

Reinvestigating a cold case

For a start there will be a re-evaluation of the material the prosecution needs to prove the case against him. First of all, the prosecution has to reinvestigate its cold case, warns Robinson. The seven counts of genocide and crimes against humanity against Kabuga, dating back to 2003 and modified in 2011, allege Kabugas central role in the genocide. Via his relationships to the Interahamwe militia, the ruling party, and the media he used his power, influence and position of authority to ensure that the crimes for which he is charged were committed, says the indictment.

The prosecutors office will have to decide how selective and strategic the indictment will be  as criminal lawyer Yasmine Chubin who worked in the ICTR prosecutors office, puts it. Given Kabugas age and the passage of time since the events of 1994, how large of a case will they choose to bring against him? Will the IRMCT prosecutors decide to only focus on the counts they can prove somewhat quickly, or will they attempt to capture the full extent of his criminality at the risk of a multi-year trial?

Kabuga was one of the founders of the notorious RTLM radio. Findings from the Media trial judgment could streamline certain aspects of the prosecution case, says Chubin, although she warns the process would face defence objections and be litigated, which would in itself be time-consuming. It can only be very specific types of facts that the prosecutor would be able to re-use. Although Nicola Palmer, a senior lecturer in criminal law at Kings College, points to many ICTR trials that have dealt with individuals who he is alleged to have been working in close contact with, the challenge will be, she says, trying to think about how those cases can be coherent together.

Kabugas alleged role in the genocide is closely intertwined with how it was planned. For example, the importing of machetes in advance. This weapons aspect becomes incredibly important says Palmer when you consider the wider question of how arms were moving into Rwanda from the start of the civil war.

Financing the genocide  what evidence?

On the financing of the genocide, evidence will be needed which was never examined in depth at the ICTR. Palmer refers to material on the financial networks that he could have had access to. What are the sets of relationships outside of Rwanda that were helping to finance the genocide? she asks. Financial analysts could make the task a lot easier, says Chubin. This is a really missing part of the accounts of what happened in 1994, says Palmer and it has implications also for how he was able to evade justice for all of these years. In June, IRMCT prosecutor Serge Brammertz told journalists that unexpected savings due to Covid-19 meant that, without asking for more funds, he was able to hire eight or nine new temporary staff with the right profile.

Defence counsel investigations may force a delay, warns Robinson. The Rwandan authorities dont always cooperate very robustly with the defence. Defence counsel will have to start from scratch and they will be dependent on the disclosure that the prosecution gives to them, he says. And with a very old person in this Covid-19 time, exceptionally vulnerable means if they ever do get the trial started they wont be able to sit full weeks because of his health.

Huge interest in Rwanda

Alphonse Muleefu teaches law at the University of Rwanda. He says Kabugas profile as a big man combined with his evasion of justice has meant his name continues to be alive in Rwanda. Theres a huge interest in his money and connections around the world, as well as who protected him, how he managed to get those passports, how he managed to travel from one country to another, how he managed to live in France for so long undetected when his wanted photo was circulating so widely.

Through domestic trials and gacaca processes most Rwandans have now participated in some form of legal accountability for those crimes, says Palmer, most often as perpetrators and victims testifying under gacaca. The Kabuga investigation will not just have available the material of the ICTR, but also intersect with all of that input, with all of that prior investigation, she says.

Chubin has been working regularly with Rwandan justice sector actors and says they, together with victim groups, are genuinely thrilled about the arrest. It is a big achievement, agrees Muleefu. Others in Rwanda, Chubin says, have expressed their regret that he isnt being tried in their domestic system. Weve been doing these cases since 2012 is the sentiment shes heard expressed, with a growing number of national jurisdictions  of which France is not a part  consistently continuing to approve extraditions to Rwanda.

For Muleefu it should be seen as prosecution in the interests of the public, with Rwandans deserving priority as those who are directly concerned. We want to be able to follow the trial, to be able to have that feeling that justice is being served. So its a simple understanding of how justice should work, and that justice is seen to be done. But theres no dispute, says Muleefu, that Kabuga falls primarily under the Mechanism because he was arrested on the basis of an ICTR arrest warrant. So it has primacy, he concludes. But the question is: Is that the right thing to do?
Hong Kong police arrested at least 60 people on Thursday, including two district councilors, after crowds of people took to the streets on China's National Day in defiance of a protest ban.



Protesters gathered from around 3.00 p.m. local time in the shopping district of Causeway Bay, chanting "Free Hong Kong, revolution now!" and other slogans, amid an already strong police presence on the city's streets.



"Police intercepted and arrested at least 60 persons, including two District Council members, for offenses such as 'participating in an unauthorized assembly' under the Public Order Ordinance," the police said in a statement on their Facebook page.



In a statement on the official Hong Kong government website, police said the slogan could be in breach of the National Security Law because it potentially "incites or abets others to commit secession."



"Police have given warnings to the crowd, clearly stating that their acts might constitute relevant offences under the National Security Law and the Public Order Ordinance, and warned them to stop illegal acts and leave immediately," the statement said.

By 4:00 p.m., police had cordoned off a section of Paterson Street and stopped and searched more than 50 passersby.Protesters had also publicized unofficial rallies in Wanchai, Wong Tai Sin, Sham Shui Po, Tsuen Wan, Tuen Mun, and Shatin districts at 1.00 p.m, while demonstrations were planned outside Chinese embassies and consulates around the world to protest the ruling Chinese Communist Party's human rights record on Oct. 1.As of 5.00 p.m., a total of 69 people had been arrested in Causeway Bay on charges of "illegal assembly," including District Councilors Lee Yee-shun and Leung Fong-wai.The protests came after Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam said the national security law had brought back social stability in the wake of last year's protest movement."Over the past three months, the plain truth is and it is obvious to see that stability has been restored to society while national security has been safeguarded," Lam said.Lam hit out at foreign governments for their "unjustified accusations" and sanctions against Hong Kong in the wake of the new law, and said there would be no change in the government's approach."I and my relevant colleagues will continue to discharge our duty to safeguard national security in accordance with the law without fear or anxiety," Lam told a behind-closed-doors flag-raising ceremony marking China's National Day on Thursday.The protests came after Hong Kong police turned down an application by march organizers the Civil Human Rights Front (CHRF) to hold a march in support of 12 Hong Kong activists detained in the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen.The march organizers called on Hongkongers to wear black instead to register their protest over the incommunicado detention of 12 Hong Kong activists in a Shenzhen detention center after they tried to flee to the democratic island of Taiwan by speedboat. None of the lawyers appointed by the families of the 12 activists, aged 16 to 33, has been allowed to meet with their clients.Thursday's protests were marked by the first-time appearance of uniformed police "presenters" relaying footage and descriptions from the streets, while journalists were kept behind a cordon and prevented from walking the streets in search of footage or interviewees."Commentators holding microphones with a 'PPRB Live' label were stationed in Causeway Bay, at Wan Chais MTR station, around the Hung Hom Cross-Harbour Tunnel and in Tsuen Wan," the Hong Kong Free Press reported.Police also stopped and searched some journalists and asked for their ID, including press accreditation. RFA journalists were asked by police to show their press cards, while police asked if they had Hong Kong Journalists Association (HKJA) membership cards, despite recent changes to police standing orders ending the official recognition of HKJA-accredited journalists.It could not be more ironic that the police are doing the job of reporters by giving live coverage of their own operation while blocking genuine reporters from getting nearer to do their job," HKJA chairman Chris Yeung told Hong Kong Free Press.Meanwhile, the families of victims of the Oct. 1, 2012 Lamma ferry disaster made offerings at the ferry terminal for the souls of those who died, calling for Marine Department officials to be held responsible over the deaths, and criticizing what they said was a lack of government follow-up.The authorities have yet to make public the results of an independent inquiry into the incident, and death certificates for the victims have yet to be issued, they said in an open letter.Thirty-nine people were killed when a vessel owned by the power company Hongkong Electric taking families to watch the National Day fireworks display collided with a Lamma Island ferry and sank in Victoria Harbour.Hong Kong police have arrested thousands of people in connection with protests that swept the city throughout most of last year, on charges that rights groups and overseas officials have said undermine the city's traditional freedoms of expression and association, guaranteed by China under the terms of the 1997 handover.Hundreds more have been arrested since July 1, when the ruling Chinese Communist Party imposed a draconian national security law on Hong Kong outlawing words and deeds deemed by the authorities to constitute separatism, subversion or terrorism, or collusion with a foreign power.In August, the United States announced sanctions against Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam and senior Chinese and Hong Kong officials for their role in curbing the city's promised freedoms and in implementing the national security regime, which has seen China's feared state security police set up a headquarters in the city.
MARK RALSTON/AFP, Getty Images

There's one moment from Tuesday night's debate that everyone seems to be talking about: the moment when Joe Biden asked Donald Trump, who repeatedly interrupted him, to "shut up, man." While some people are calling the moment "a mood," others are calling it a gendered double standard. In the same thread that author and lawyer Jill Filipovic called Biden's soundbite the "line of the night," she also expressed empathy for former secretary of state Hillary Clinton, who debated Trump for the presidential seat in 2016.

"I so feel for Hillary right now because Im positive she wanted to say that and couldnt," Filipovic tweeted.

Clinton replied to the tweet, confirming this was true. "You have no idea," she wrote.

She seems to be implying that there was likely a lot more than just "shut up" that she wanted to say on the debate stage four years ago.

Will you shut up, man is the line of the night   Jill Filipovic (@JillFilipovic) September 30, 2020

You have no idea.  Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) September 30, 2020

To combat the harmful belief that they are "too emotional" or "irrational" to be in politics, women politicians face added pressure to keep calm and cool-headed in heated debates, even when dealing with, for example, a rambling and aggressive man.

One columnist on Twitter delivered this point perfectly, writing, "Just a reminder that Hillary Clinton couldn't respond to Trump's yelling four years ago like Biden did yesterday because the Very Angry Womanz story would have been the only one," she wrote.

Just a reminder that Hillary Clinton couldn't respond to Trump's yelling four years ago like Biden did yesterday because the Very Angry Womanz story would have been the only one.  Susan J. Demas  (@sjdemas) September 30, 2020

U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has also provided some strong examples of the double standards for women in politics, recently calling out the lack of criticism Republicans had for Trump in regards to the $70,000 he wrote off in "hairstyling expenses."

Story continues

"Last year Republicans blasted a firehose of hatred + vitriol my way because I treated myself to a $250 cut & lowlights on my birthday. Wheres the criticism of their idol spending $70k on hairstyling? Oh, its nowhere because theyre spineless, misogynistic hypocrites? Got it," she wrote."

Last year Republicans blasted a firehose of hatred + vitriol my way because I treated myself to a $250 cut & lowlights on my birthday.



Wheres the criticism of their idol spending $70k on hairstyling?



Oh, its nowhere because theyre spineless, misogynistic hypocrites? Got it. https://t.co/xCQGwW7EK5  Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) September 28, 2020

With these blatant double standards continuing and the mess that was last night's debate, it's hard not to feel discouraged right now. Chasten Buttigieg, husband to former presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg, was specifically concerned about how Clinton was holding up. "Has anyone checked in on @HillaryClinton? Girl I'm so sorry," he wrote. The former secretary of state, however, is more concerned about voter turnout.

"Thanks, Im fine. But everyone better vote," Clinton responded.

Thanks, Im fine. But everyone better vote. https://t.co/fkuQ042HvM  Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) September 30, 2020

Check here for everything you need to know about voting in the upcoming presidential election.
The chief executive of Flight Centre has said it could take as long as five years for the struggling travel agent to get back on its feet after the business was forced to close another 90 stores on Wednesday.

Graham Turner told The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald he wasn't bullish on travel's recovery  especially international trips  after the coronavirus pandemic grounded flights and devastated the sector earlier this year.

"Travel will come back ... but it's going to take quite a long time to get back to where we were pre-COVID," he said. "It's probably going to be somewhere between three-and-a-half to five years."

Flight Centre CEO Graham Turner. Credit:

Flight Centre has been one of the companies hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic as the border closures spurred by the deadly virus slashed leisure travel to almost zero. The company reported a massive $662 million net loss earlier this year, its first-ever since listing on the ASX in 1995.
Playing with dolls uses a brain region that helps children develop empathy for other people and social processing skills, a study has discovered.

Researchers from Cardiff found that doll play activated the use of the so-called posterior superior temporal sulcus (pSTS) more than other creative activities.

In addition, the social benefits of the dolls were observed even when children played alone  rather than with others  and were equal among girls and boys.

The findings support the pioneering theories of the Swiss 'father of developmental psychology' Jean Piaget, who argued in 1945 that pretend play was inherently social.

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Playing with dolls, pictured, uses a brain region that helps children develop empathy for other people and social processing skills, a study has discovered

'We use this area of the brain when we think about other people, especially when we think about another persons thoughts or feelings,' said paper author and developmental researcher Sarah Gerson of Cardiff University.

'Dolls encourage them to create their own little imaginary worlds, as opposed to say, problem-solving or building games. They encourage children to think about other people and how they might interact with each other.'

'The fact that we saw the pSTS to be active in our study shows that playing with dolls is helping them rehearse some of the social skills they will need in later life.'

'This brain region has been shown to play a similar role in supporting empathy and social processing across six continents.'

In their study, Dr Gerson and colleagues used a brain-scanning technique called functional near-infrared spectroscopy to monitor 33 children  a mix of both boys and girls aged from 48  while they played with assorted Barbie dolls and playsets.

The children played both alone and with one of the researchers  and these activities were compared with solo and social play involving open and creative play that instead involved video games on a tablet computer.

Researchers from Cardiff found that doll play activated the use of the so-called posterior superior temporal sulcus (pSTS) more than other creative activities. In addition, the social benefits of the dolls were observed even when children played alone  rather than with others  and were equal among girls and boys, pictured

In their study, Dr Gerson and colleagues used a brain-scanning technique called functional near-infrared spectroscopy to monitor 33 children  a mix of both boys and girls aged from 48  while they played with assorted Barbie dolls and playsets

The team found that the pSTS was just as active when the boys and girls played along with the dolls as it was when they played socially with others.

In contrast, when the children were left along to play video games on a tablet, there was far less activation of the social-related brain region.

The study was conducted in collaboration with toymaker Mattel  which produces the fashion doll Barbie, who made her commercial debut in 1959.

The full findings of the study were published in the journal Frontiers in Human Neuroscience.
U.S. consumer spending slowed in August while personal incomes fell, reflecting the expiration of the $600 weekly benefit for the unemployed.

The Commerce Department reported Thursday that spending grew by just 1%, the weakest showing since spending actually fell 12.7% in April after the coronavirus pandemic shut down large parts of the economy.

The 2.7% drop in incomes followed a gain of 0.5% in July. The August drop reflected the expiration of the $600 expanded unemployment benefit on July 31. Congress has so far failed to come up with a new virus relief package that would restore that benefit.

Many economists are worried that without further government support the economy will slow significantly in the final three months of this year.
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How can I begin to characterize whats happened in Wine Country this week? The familiar set of words  devastating, catastrophic, heartbreaking  feels inadequate.

Each day, were learning more about what precisely the Glass Fire, which has burned more than 48,000 acres since igniting in eastern Napa County early Sunday morning, has destroyed. So far, at least 16 wineries have lost structures, with significant damage registered at several others, at the northern end of Napa Valley around the cities of Calistoga and St. Helena.

On Wednesday morning, a new gut punch came: Cain, an estate at the top of Spring Mountain, had lost virtually all of its buildings, winemaker Chris Howell told me. The main winery, plus a barn built in the 1970s, were gone.

I love wines from many of the wineries that experienced losses this week, but with Cain I have a special connection. I first encountered the label during my first wine-related job, stocking shelves at a wine shop in Boston. The business favored Europe over California, but when I asked the owner to recommend some California bottles for me to try, he mentioned Cain. Before I left the job, I capitalized on my employee discount to buy a mixed case that included Cain Five, the winerys Bordeaux-style blend from its Spring Mountain estate vineyard.

The Cain Five was like no California wine Id ever tasted. It was an earthy, savory antidote to the polished, fruity archetype I was expecting. I smelled flower petals and moss, tasted mushrooms and sweet green herbs.

Years later, when I moved to California to work for The Chronicle, Cain was one of the first wineries I visited in my new role  the last stop on my first real day of Napa Valley reporting. I remember being embarrassingly late; Id done a poor job of accounting for the driving time between the various wineries on my agenda that day.

Howell was so gracious, and Ill never forget sitting at a table with him in the winery long after 5 p.m. as the rest of the staff went home, patiently guiding me through five or six vintages. I felt a little star-struck, to be honest, given how much I already loved the wines. My gas tank was practically empty  I was running so late that I hadnt stopped to fill it  and Howell reassured me that Id make it to the gas station in St. Helena just fine since the drive out of the Cain estate, down Spring Mountain, was so steeply downhill. (He was right. My foot was on the brake the whole time.)

The following year, when my parents came to visit and demanded that I take them on a tour of Napa Valley, Cain was the first place I brought them. They got to see the magic of it themselves as Howell drove us through the hilly maze of vineyards and snapped fragrant leaves off of bay laurel trees for us to smell  an aroma that unmistakably manifests in Cains wines. Since then, Howell has been one of my most reliably thoughtful sources for the wine industry on topics ranging from the spoilage yeast brettanomyces to climate change.

Gabrielle Lurie/Special to The Chronicle

As the Glass Fire ripped across Napa Valley, and as we learned it had reached Spring Mountain, I feared for Cain and its neighbors. On Tuesday, I tried to drive up there myself, but a police officer at the base of Spring Mountain Road wouldnt let me pass, even after I waved my press badge. Trees were still falling, he said, it was too dangerous.

When I expressed my dismay to Howell over the phone on Wednesday morning that Cain was gone, he gently corrected me. The winery may be gone, but Cain remains, he said.

Its shocking and heartbreaking, he continued, but the key is that the vines are there. The vines themselves, seen above in a photo from 2016, may actually be OK. As for the wine, the 2019 and 2020 vintages were lost with the building, but the rest of the inventory is stored offsite. In fact, Cain is only just now releasing its 2016 wines, so there are still multiple intact vintages in the pipeline and plenty of wine for customers to buy.

But when Howell talked about Cain remaining, he wasnt just referring to bottles of wine or even to grapevines. He was referring to the place of Cain, which no fire or natural disaster could ever erase. The singular character of this mountaintop land  its slopes and soils and high-elevation sunlight and all those fragrant (and fire-resistant) bay laurel leaves  endures, and will never lose its ability to convey its particularities through a wine.

That struck me as comforting, even hopeful.

Its like having picture books of your childhood: The wine represents a historical record, Howell said. But the memories dont die with the book. All of these vintages are still with us, not lost.

More on the Glass Fire

Food Guide Top 25 Restaurants Where to eat in the Bay Area. Find spots near you, create a dining wishlist, and more.

Brittany Hosea-Small/Special to The Chronicle

 Heres a running list of all the Napa Valley wineries with confirmed damage or destruction.

 And heres a photo essay that shows that destruction in visual form.

 The wine industrys losses due to fire this year are already greater than what it experienced during the devastating fire season of 2017.

 Despite the dramatic toll, however, many wineries that were near the Glass Fire are completely intact, including Rombauer and Failla, both of which had been the subject of some false rumors.

 My colleague Sarah Ravani writes about the residents of Napas Pope Valley who defied evacuation orders to stay behind and defend their homes.

 This is what we know so far about what may have caused the Glass Fire to start.

Drinking with Esther is a weekly newsletter from The Chronicles wine critic. Follow along on Twitter: @Esther_Mobley and Instagram: @esthermob
Editor: Bridget McCann, CPA

The novel coronavirus pandemic that spread throughout the country this year is already having a deep and widespread  and sure to be long-lasting  impact on the state and local tax landscape. State governments were forced to respond to this unique crisis at alarming speeds and contend with loads of new questions, resulting in an assortment of both formal legislative and informal administrative guidance across states on unprecedented state tax matters, much of which has yet to be clarified or otherwise codified by legislation.

Part 1 of this column, on p. 594 of the September issue, looked at state conformity to certain federal relief provisions, income tax nexus and apportionment issues affecting businesses, and income tax issues for employers and employees. Part 2 reviews sales and use tax consequences, looks at local property tax matters, and discusses what is next for taxpayers and state and local governments as taxpayers continue to seek relief and as states look to replace lost revenue as well as consider new opportunities to support taxpayers and streamline outdated procedures.

Sales and use tax consequences



While garnering less overall attention than the state income tax issues stemming from both conformity to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, P.L. 116-136, and COVID-19 teleworking employees, the sales and use tax implications of newly remote employees as well as the all-out public movement to battle the spread of the coronavirus are particularly noteworthy. Fundamentally, the sales and use tax nexus implications of COVID-19 teleworking employees are not unlike those for income tax, and the questions will remain whether those employees trigger nexus for their employer based on their physical presence in a state outside their normal office location for however long they are instructed  or otherwise choose, as it pertains to their health  to remain there, as well as however long any specific relief from creating nexus might last.

Unlike for state income tax, though, no federal statutory protection exists like P.L. 86-272, the Interstate Income Act of 1959, relative to a nexus determination for sales and use tax; therefore, the overall threshold can be lower. Additionally, in light of stay-at-home orders and a consequential spike in online shopping, the Wayfair minimum economic nexus thresholds based on either a volume of sales receipts from and/or a certain number of transactions with customers in a state are now infinitely more significant for both well-established and new businesses selling any goods or services online (see South Dakota v. Wayfair, Inc., 138 S. Ct. 2080 (2018)).

Apart from nexus, individuals and businesses that sell personal protective equipment (PPE) (e.g., face masks) or other COVID-19-elated goods to thwart the transmission of the coronavirus are particularly prone to obscure sales tax requirements because they are either unaware of state nexus rules and sales tax registration requirements or unfamiliar with the application of sales tax to the specific sales transactions in which they now engage, or both. What started out as relatively de minimis sales of those goods or services in early 2020 could lead to sufficient month-over-month revenue, triggering nexus in more than one state and corresponding sales tax registrations and return filing requirements.

These requirements  and possibly others  may exist even if COVID-19related PPE, for example, is exempt from sales tax or the sale is otherwise exempt because the PPE is purchased and used by a medical professional, hospital, or other exempt organization. Furthermore, it certainly should not be assumed that sales of face masks or other COVID-19related PPE and goods are always exempt from sales tax. In the absence of specific COVID-19 sales tax relief, existing state and local sales and use tax rules relative to the sale of those articles within each distinct customer base will guide any sales tax collection and exemption documentation obligations.

On the other hand, businesses or other groups that donate PPE or other COVID-19related supplies to doctors and other organizations are likely to contend with use tax issues. Use tax is typically due on items withdrawn from inventory for either personal use or donation, if sales tax is not paid on their original purchase. While the specific application of use tax to donated items will depend on each state's rules, Indiana, for instance, provides direct relief now by waiving use tax on COVID-19 supplies donated by manufacturers and other organizations. A host of items are eligible for Indiana's waiver, including, but not limited to, medicine, medical supplies, disinfectants, certain food, clothing, and beds donated to fight the pandemic. Notably, companies and organizations must apply directly to the Indiana Department of Revenue to claim the COVID-19 waiver and, if the waiver is granted, will not be required to report donations on any return. Other states may or may not provide such direct relief.

Lastly, alcoholic beverage distilleries and other manufacturers that shifted operations to manufacture and sell alcohol-based hand sanitizer could face the same sales tax nexus and product taxability concerns as those selling PPE, in addition to customary state alcohol excise tax obligations. Certain states are making relief from alcohol excise taxes clear, however, by providing either a deduction from the tax base or a direct exemption for alcohol purchases. Illinois, for instance, instructed licensed distilleries and craft distilleries producing alcohol for use in hand sanitizer due to the COVID-19 pandemic to report gallons of alcohol purchased for this purpose as an expense deduction on their monthly excise tax return with a "COVID-19 Alcohol" notation. Not surprisingly, this deduction is only allowed during a "specified time period (as yet undetermined)." Likewise, Wisconsin provided manufacturers certain exemptions from liquor excise taxes for the purchase of specified alcohols to make hand sanitizer during the COVID-19 emergency and eased other restrictions for the industry. Indeed, in conformity with the CARES Act's distilled spirits provisions, Wisconsin extended certain authorizations through Dec. 31, 2020.

Despite these COVID-19-related indirect tax risks and the unknown nature of a longer-term public health emergency, it is not too late to gather up the necessary documentation to support nexus or taxability positions or, in fact, to claim a refund of any overpaid tax if appropriate. It is imperative to understand each state and local jurisdiction's sales tax nexus and product taxability guidance, as well as its specific application to one's own business over its life.

Local property tax matters



Property tax considerations arising from the coronavirus pandemic should also not be overlooked. As the pandemic's economic effects linger and financial pressures continue to weigh on homeowners, lessors, and other property owners into late 2020 and beyond, local taxing authorities are implementing  or seriously considering  property tax relief. Such relief includes, in part, extending payment deadlines and/or waiving penalties for late payments. Cook County in Illinois, for example, was not charging its typical 1.5% interest penalty for second installments of 2019 property tax paid by Oct. 1, 2020. Madison, Wis., waived penalties for tax installments due after April 1 until October, as well. Similarly, Lake County in Illinois allowed property owners to spread property tax payments over four installments by extending 50% of each of the usual two installments for two months, with the last installment of the four due in November.

It is important to note, however, that counties may exclude from deadline relief those property tax payments made through escrow or other third-party arrangements or may require taxpayers to submit certain forms before they can obtain any penalty relief. In some cases, too, counties may require property owners to meet a series of conditions before relief is granted, including, for instance, a job layoff or termination, a reduction in income, an inability to collect a certain percentage of rent, or an emergency shutdown of a nonessential business on owned property. Therefore, it is essential that affected taxpayers understand specific local relief efforts and check local resources often for available assistance, as well as how to properly obtain relief.

Conceivably more significant in the long term, upcoming local real estate assessments could be materially impacted by the fiscal crisis caused by COVID-19. Some local assessors stated they expect to reduce assessed 2020 property values because of the profound financial effects of the coronavirus, thereby possibly reducing property tax bills later next year. Other localities, however, are not keen to follow suit. As an example of state relief, New Jersey provided taxpayers extra time to file property tax appeals to fight 2019 real estate assessments for taxes going back to April, as well as extended the deadline by which county boards of taxation must rule until the end of September.

Even after the immediate health threat of COVID-19 passes, property valuations and property tax matters are sure to remain top of mind, particularly in state and local jurisdictions hit hard by the economic effects of the virus or that otherwise typically turn to the property tax base to raise needed revenue.



Undeniably, the coronavirus pandemic has caused unprecedented strain and economic disruption on individuals and organizations of all sizes across all industries. As its profound stress and fiscal impact persist for the foreseeable future, there is no question that taxpayers will continue to seek relief, and state and local governments will look for ways to replace hundreds of millions of dollars in lost tax revenue.

Administrative relief for taxpayers

Taxpayers specifically seeking administrative support are likely to see it  at least in the short term  in a variety of ways that have already been instituted across states in response to the pandemic, such as case-by-case waivers or broad reasonable-cause relief from penalties and interest; delayed tax collection activity; relaxed audit processes; extensions to refund claim periods, business licenses, and sales tax "E" number expiration dates; as well as loosened restrictions on electronic signatures and document notarizations. Further, states already providing certain relief from nexus and personal income tax obligations triggered by COVID-19 teleworking employees could extend it, and other states may fall in line. As a practical matter, existing state relief  formal or informal  may in fact already be tied to the durations of state COVID-19 public health emergency declarations, which are sure to extend for some time.

However, the taxpayer relief and other COVID-19related state tax guidance implemented across jurisdictions is neither uniform nor all-encompassing, making awareness and compliance complex and burdensome for multistate taxpayers. To assist taxpayers in this regard, the AICPA is maintaining a comprehensive state-by-state chart summarizing an extensive amount of COVID-19related state and local legislative and administrative information as well as other emerging guidance for the public (available at www.aicpa.org). In addition, the AICPA publishes carefully outlined recommendations for all state and local administrators crafting policies in response to the coronavirus pandemic, with an eye toward emphasizing uniformity and simplicity for taxpayers as well as identifying opportunities for streamlining outdated policies and procedures in the longer term for governments (available at www.aicpa.org). Some example AICPA recommendations for administrators are: holding that COVID-19 teleworking employees do not create nexus, permitting employers to adhere to employees' original work location for payroll withholding, and accepting electronic signatures.

Local credit and incentive opportunities

Taxpayers seeking continued relief may also greatly benefit from ongoing discrete state and local credits and incentive programs offered through economic development agencies. In addition to existing programs, in March, many states and localities initiated new small business financial relief in the form of grants, loans, and private and not-for-profit donation assistance  or some combination of such support  for those hit particularly hard by nonessential business closures and stay-at-home orders. For example, Illinois, Michigan, New Jersey, New York (including New York City), and Washington state provided a mix of resources ranging from grants to cover payroll costs and rent, to zero- or low-interest working capital loans.

Unique programs tailored to the restaurant and hospitality industry also took shape. Examples include Ohio's liquor buyback program and the National Restaurant Association's nationwide restaurant employee relief fund.

While many of these early programs are likely to have exhausted their initial funding and stopped accepting applications, certain of these programs may be continuing in a phase 2type format, and other new programs are being added. For instance, in June, Chicago introduced a $5 million cash-assistance program to support certain Chicago residents excluded from COVID-19 federal stimulus payments. Also, in late June, Illinois earmarked $60 million for a Business Interruption Grant program to aid small businesses affected by COVID-19 with working capital expenses, one-third of which will go to businesses located in disproportionately impacted areas. Local counties, too, may have one-off or limited breaks for locally important businesses. Suffolk County in New York, for example, is providing a targeted exemption for up to a year from sales tax for purchases of equipment by certain manufacturers making PPE, diagnostic tests, and medicine tied to the coronavirus pandemic.

Replacing lost tax revenue

As the COVID-19 health emergency subsides, state and local governments will look to replace millions in lost tax revenue, fill budget gaps, and restore depleted coffers. In the short term, state tax administrators are likely to consider quick and easy methods of obtaining much-needed cash, most of which should afford taxpayers excellent opportunities to favorably resolve outstanding state and local tax liabilities.

To begin with, often-used state and local tax amnesty programs could emerge, under which taxpayers voluntarily come forward to pay outstanding state or local tax liabilities in exchange for full abatement of penalties and interest. These traditional programs are easy to implement  taxing jurisdictions benefit from added revenue without the costs associated with audit and enforcement, and taxpayers eliminate underreporting errors and avoid the risk of high penalties for noncompliance. In addition, taxpayers are in a great position to negotiate and settle open audit issues as well as negotiate waivers of associated penalties if agreed-upon liabilities are otherwise quickly paid and paid in full. Also, taxpayers ought to have the chance to either pay back taxes in installments or enter long-term payment programs in exchange for agreeing to pay outstanding tax debts.

Business taxpayers operating under existing local incentive agreements that are based on certain business growth benchmarks (e.g., employee headcount) may, too, have a fresh opportunity to formally or informally renegotiate those benchmarks  or the timing within which they need to be met  since states and localities should be eager to retain business in their communities that contribute to future tax revenue and overall vibrancy.

In the long term, these quick and easy methods of immediate cash infusion, while helpful, certainly will not correct the enormous financial fallout taxing jurisdictions are experiencing from the coronavirus pandemic. State and local tax revenue forecasts are dire, and, therefore, as legislatures resume full operations and state tax administrators re-shift focus inward and renew revenue-generating efforts, taxpayers are likely to see much less favorable activity on the horizon  activity that could restrict business growth altogether. Initially, beyond general nonconformity to recent taxpayer- and business-friendly provisions of the CARES Act, states may in fact implement rules that depart from those provisions, including, for example, rules that not only decouple from the new five-year carryback of net operating losses (NOLs) but also suspend the use of NOLs altogether for a period of time. California, for instance, disallowed NOL deductions for certain business and individual taxpayers for tax years 2020, 2021, and 2022, in July. In addition, state and local jurisdictions might implement new taxes, such as hotly debated gross receipts taxes, which are not dependent on net revenue; excise taxes on marijuana or gambling; employee head taxes; or digital services taxes, like the one recently vetoed by the governor in Maryland.

States could also ramp up efforts to retrieve unclaimed property, since it is politically easier to tap this source of revenue than to raise taxes. Or, as an alternative to new taxes, states and certain localities may revisit expanding their income tax and sales tax bases by establishing new modifications that further decouple the state's income tax code from taxpayer-friendly federal income tax provisions, or adding services  and particularly computer-related services, like software as a service  to those categories subject to sales tax.

Taxing jurisdictions may also use notices and audits to enforce compliance and uncover state and local tax liabilities. Online retailers and other remote businesses are particularly vulnerable to exposure as a result of complex and divergent state and local tax rules, especially small businesses whose operations grew quickly across the country during the pandemic. What is more, to the extent current COVID-19 relief expires, taxpayers will be on the hook to know the rules and comply.

Notably, steadfast enforcement of nexus and economic nexus standards are likely to take center stage, possibly including extensions of Wayfair thresholds to income tax nexus, as Pennsylvania and Massachusetts have already done. Notice resolution and audits may very well be handled and performed by aggressive tax personnel and auditors under pressure to produce results. To aid in all this, state revenue departments are expected to further innovate and take advantage of data analytics to find noncompliant taxpayers  taxpayers ranging from those not registered for sales tax or payroll tax, to those not reporting income earned across multiple taxing jurisdictions.

While outright income tax increases are not politically appealing on the heels of a major global public health emergency, recession woes could prompt states that do not already have a graduated personal income tax rate structure to put one in place. Indeed, Illinois already has such a proposal slated for the ballot in November of this year. Ultimately, while it is unclear what technique each state or local jurisdiction will use, each is likely to explore more than one means of replacing billions of dollars lost during the coronavirus pandemic.

Conclusions and recommendations



Like the novelty of the coronavirus itself, the extraordinary government, business, and individual response to the sudden public health emergency  in the spirit of both assistance and containment  leads to many new direct and indirect state and local tax concerns, only some of which we know today, and most of which come with limited and inconsistent initial guidance. It is not enough for taxpayers to assume states and localities will respond in a certain way or equally in the same way. Rather, it is critical for taxpayers to understand the full reach of the coronavirus pandemic's effects on state and local tax matters, along with each state and local jurisdiction's evolving formal and informal guidance, in order to be truly compliant, to be informed of risks associated with noncompliance, and to properly obtain available relief and support.

At this time, primarily, business taxpayers will need to navigate state conformity to the new income tax rules and Paycheck Protection Program loan forgiveness provisions under the CARES Act, based on each state's conformity to the Code, prior conformity to the law known as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, P.L. 115-97, direct state law as to specific modifications, and adoption of non-Code provisions. Simply put, some states will conform in full, in part, or not at all, and one will need to rely on a number of different resources to make that determination.

Beyond the CARES Act, business taxpayers may need to contend with new state and local income tax compliance obligations and shifting tax liabilities under existing income tax rules stemming from the physical location of COVID-19 teleworking employees, who expose their employers to state and local nexus and income tax apportionment and revenue sourcing nuances, as well as payroll withholding obligations. These same COVID-19 teleworking employees may also expose themselves to new personal income tax obligations and liabilities based on where they traveled and worked remotely.

In addition to income tax, business taxpayers who shifted operations or otherwise grew in scale from moving to the manufacture and/or sale of PPE or expanding remote sales may also need to manage new sales and use tax collection and reporting responsibilities, relying on existing state and local sales and use tax rules, which are complex and burdensome. Lastly, given the sheer scope of COVID-19's disruption, taxpayers should not forget about more obscure state and local tax issues and opportunities that are coming to light, like a possible rise in unemployment insurance tax and changes to property tax deadlines and assessments, as well as ongoing and new local credits and incentive programs.

To assist taxpayers right now, some states are issuing specific COVID-19related relief from certain initial state tax concerns, including from the various business and personal income tax effects of COVID-19 teleworking employees, from the imposition of sales and use tax to purchase and sales transactions that supported the public health emergency, as well as from other various administrative requirements. Other states, however, either are not providing relief in their guidance or are silent on the matter. And, even if any relief exists, it is not presently consistent among state and local jurisdictions and is likely either tied to the "temporary" nature of the coronavirus  or any number of other COVID-19related criteria  or contains certain exclusions or procedures that need to be closely followed to benefit from it.

In the absence of specific relief or to the extent any initial relief expires, the analysis of any new direct or indirect state and local tax issue stemming from the effects of the pandemic will fall squarely within existing state and local rules as well as any targeted permanent statutes and regulations ultimately adopted. Such an analysis is sure to be fraught with difficulties and highly dependent on each taxpayer's unique set of facts as they stood before and throughout the pandemic.

In the coming months, amid continued widespread economic uncertainty and barring a second wave of a public health emergency, state and local governments are likely to consider implementing new taxes, expanding tax bases, and exploiting a variety of enhanced compliance measures for purposes of replacing tax revenue lost during the pandemic. This is true, even while taxpayers may see opportunities in the short term to collaborate with tax administrators to favorably resolve outstanding state and local tax liabilities through possible new amnesty programs, audit negotiations, or flexible payment arrangements.

At some point, longer-term telecommuting arrangements or strategic companywide permanent shifts to remote work could result in not only double tax concerns for employees but also unique and broad multistate tax troubles for employers. Certainly, the adoption of additional broad federal economic relief, any changes to already available programs, or the resurgence of a health emergency warranting a return to stay-at-home orders would only lead to even more state and local tax questions and concerns. Given the fluidity of all this, best practices dictate documentation  and, in some cases, time- or date-stamped documentation reflecting, for instance, superseded information on which one relied for key interim tax decisions.

Not unlike other historic events, the vast and deep social and economic effect of the coronavirus pandemic will shape direct and indirect state and local tax law and policies well into the future, both adding to the complexity of state and local tax regimes but hopefully, too, creating opportunities for simplicity and uniformity between jurisdictions where it is needed most. Taxpayers who successfully navigate the state and local tax impacts of the coronavirus pandemic will necessarily appreciate the pandemic's effect on a broad range of tax types and taxpayers as well as the nuances among state and local jurisdictions now and for months and years to come.
A Perth man will face court on Thursday after being charged with importing close to $80,000 worth of an illicit drug known as 'coma in a bottle' into Western Australia. The 32-year-old from Girrawheen faces a potentially lengthy prison term if convicted of the importation of 26 litres of gamma-butyrolactone (GBL), also known as liquid ecstasy, with the maximum term for the offence being life imprisonment. Police swooped on the man's home last month. He will face court on Thursday. Credit:AFP Australian Border Force officers in Sydney allegedly found the drugs early in September when they examined an air freight consignment from Hong Kong addressed to a residential property in Girrawheen.

Testing of the liquid in the plastic bottles indicated the presence of GBL and the matter was referred to Australian Federal Police. AFP officers raided the accused man's home on September 14 and charged him with importing commercial quantities of border controlled drugs. GBL is an industrial chemical found in paint strippers and stain removers and is dangerous to ingest, even in tiny doses. Credit:AFP AFP Sergeant Chris Colley said GBL was an industrial chemical found in paint strippers and stain removers and was dangerous to ingest, even in tiny doses. "GBL can cause severe side-effects, including convulsions, loss of consciousness, memory loss, respiratory difficulties, coma, and even death. There are cases of it being used to render people unconscious or unable to defend themselves to facilitate rapes and other sexual crimes," he said.
Top by Savannah Morrow The Label We were noticing friends struggle to make informed purchases and felt very passionate about bridging the gap by curating a selection of items that we love, from brands that are truly making impactful changes in their supply chain

Status Gaea (statusgaea.com) launches a shoppable content platform promoting a curated selection of fashion and beauty products from better brands that care for our planet. For the launch, the site showcases 1,000 items from 300 sustainable and ethical brands. New items will be added weekly, ranging from small businesses like Vanina, E.L.V. denim, and Bevza, to more established brands like Ganni and Veja. All items are vetted against a set of core values that are uniquely displayed on each listed product and researched in collaboration with sustainable experts. This research combined with the founders expertise in curating stylish pieces, makes the site a simple and essential tool for the conscious shopper.

We were noticing friends struggle to make informed purchases and felt very passionate about bridging the gap by curating a selection of items that we love, from brands that are truly making impactful changes in their supply chain, said Toni Lessler Mills. Mandy Rivas continues Being Latina myself, its extremely important for me to bring visibility to not only women-owned brands but also BIPOC-owned brands, providing equality and showing my daughters that gender and or the color of their skin does not hinder their future.

Status Gaea aims to re-think the fashion e-commerce model by operating with affiliate and independent partnerships. Each item will link directly to the brands product page where the customer can complete their transaction with the partner site. This removes the need for Status Gaea to function as a traditional supplier with an operation-heavy business model, ensuring a minimal carbon footprint. This model ensures international customers are also able to utilize the platform as a discovery tool as all currency conversions are handled directly through the affiliate sites. Affiliate sites include retailers such as Net-a-Porter, Farfetch, Selfridges and Garmentory. Through the sites shoppable content, a customer can choose to shop by filtering by product category, brand, or price. From Asata Maises hand-crochet pieces made from reclaimed materials to The Pangaias grape leather sneakers, there is a special piece to be discovered for everyone. Customers can also discover the sustainable and ethical components of each item by referring to icons accompanying each product listing depicting core values adopted in production and operations, including organic, low waste, and BIPOC-owned.

The name Status Gaea stems from the founders belief that the only status that matters is protecting Gaea, Mother Earth in Greek mythology. As experts in their field and passionate about helping their industry change in order to conserve the planet and put people before profit, Mandy and Toni birthed Status Gaea. Jointly they pull together 20 years of industry experience from brands including Burberry, The Gap, Swarovski, and The RealReal. Mandy Rivas provides 10 years of merchandising experience with her most recent role as Mens Merchandise Manager at The RealReal where she successfully grew the mens product assortment, contributing to the company going public in 2019. Toni Lessler Mills brings 10 years of experience in communications and content production at some of the largest luxury brands. Her work includes the launch of Burberrys Heritage Trench Coat Collection, Burberry runways shows, Swarovski x The Fashion Awards, Alexander Mcqueens Savage Beauty, and The RealReals editorials across site and store.

Status Gaea is an online platform showcasing womens fashion and beauty products from brands that are sustainable and ethical. The site features over 1,000 hand-curated products from 300 vetted brands. Founded in 2020 by Toni Lessler Mills and Mandy Rivas and headquartered in San Francisco, California. Status Gaea is women-owned and BIPOC-owned.
A man was charged on Wednesday with shooting two Los Angeles County sheriffs deputies who were sitting in their patrol car, an attack that was captured on video and that prompted widespread condemnation, including from both presidential candidates.

The man, Deonte Lee Murray, 36, of Compton, Calif., was charged with two counts of willful, deliberate and premeditated attempted murder of a peace officer and possession of a firearm by a felon, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorneys Office.

Mr. Murray was arraigned on Wednesday in Los Angeles County Superior Court, where he pleaded not guilty and was ordered held with bail set at $6 million, according to his lawyer, Jack Keenan. If convicted, Mr. Murray could face life in prison.

Mr. Keenan said Mr. Murray was being harassed and threatened in jail by deputy sheriffs who were denying him food and waking him up at all hours. He said Mr. Murray was also being held in a unit for suicidal inmates and forced to wear a padded blanket known as a suicide gown, even though he is not suicidal.
The folks over at Corvette Blogger got their hands on photos of new Corvettes delivered to a dealership in late September with new graphics on the windshield. They pay tribute to Zora Arkus-Duntov, the "father of the Corvette."

Chevrolet had several issues with the new, mid-engined, C8-generation Corvette this year, including a factory shutdown due to the coronavirus pandemic and a reduced output for the 2021 model year. But production is now back to speed and it seems Chevy is making small enhancements to the mid-engined coupe.

The news comes from the Kerbeck Corvette dealership in Atlantic City, which discovered two new graphics on the C8 Corvette's windshield.

Theres one depicting a silhouette of Zora Duntov on the lower corner passenger side, while the lower corner on the driver side boasts a set of crossed flags and the words Team Corvette etched into the tint.

The dealership goes on to add that only two of the cars they received had these additions and that both features the highest VIN numbers yet received. So its safe to say that these graphics were added to the production line sometime during September 2020.

The Father of the Corvette

This new reference to Zora Arkus-Duntov doesnt come as a surprise. Actually, Im surprised that the C8 Corvette doesnt include more features that remind of the engineer that turned the Corvette from a mundane roadster into a high-performance vehicle.

Duntov joined General Motors in 1953 after seeing the first Corvette on display in New York City. Impressed by its design but disappointed by its underpowered drivetrain, Duntov approached Chevrolet chief engineer Ed Cole, asking to work on the car.

Zora eventually helped introduce the small-block V-8 engine to the Corvette in 1955 and then he went on to create the Corvette SS concept and the Grand Sport race car.

But more importantly, Zora Arkus built the first mid-engined Chevrolets, the CERV I and CERV II experimental cars. His dream was to build a mid-engined Corvette, but Chevys withdrawal from racing in the 1960s and Duntovs retirement in 1975 kept the Corvette a traditional front-engined car for another 60 years.

Zora died in 1996, but he would definitely be smiling about the mid-engined C8 Corvette that Chevrolet offers today. An upcoming higher performance version of the C8 Corvette is rumored to be called the Zora as a tribute to the Belgian-born American engineer.

Source: Corvette Blogger
Uttar Pradesh Police forced the cremation of a 19-year-old Dalit woman from Hathras who died after being brutally raped by four men, the victims family said on Wednesday, triggering anger from locals and political rivals who accused the Yogi Adityanath government of trying to suppress the collection of additional forensic evidence and prevent the ballooning of protests.

District officials contended that they had consent from the womans family, but the manner in which the developments took place raised questions over the conduct of the administration and law enforcement. The woman succumbed to injuries in Delhi on Tuesday and the body was moved later that night to her home town 200km away. The cremation was carried out at 2.30am amid heavy deployment of police, who stopped locals and the media from approaching the site.

WATCH | Hathras victims kin say cops forcibly cremated her body; protests break out

The police have forcibly taken the body and my father along with them for cremation. When my father reached Hathras, he was immediately taken (to the crematorium) by the police, the womans brother was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.

Also Read: Hathras gang-rape: BJP stares at the return of Dalit unrest

Police paid no heed to our request to have cremation during the daytime on Wednesday. Police were bent upon cremation at night and forcibly got it conducted, alleged a villager.

Hathras district magistrate (DM) Praveen Kumar denied the charges. The funeral was conducted with the due permission of the father. No one in the family, except a handful, have levelled such charges. Initially, family was not prepared to shift the victim to Delhi for better treatment but later agreed to it, the DM added.

Members of Dalit groups and activists alleged that the early morning cremation was done to prevent any mobilisation or protests in the village. The whole world is watching how the government and the police together cremated our sister in the absence of her family. I have been taken into custody and put under house arrest in Saharanpur; but we will continue to fight, said Chandrasekhar Azad, chief of the Bhim Army that had led protests outside Delhis Safdarjung Hospital on Tuesday.

Also Read: More outrage, protests after Hathras victims cremation

On Wednesday afternoon, hundreds of people gathered in the main market area of Hathras in protest before police used tear gas and force to break up the agitation. Demonstrations also took place in Delhi and Kolkata, and a social activist filed a petition in the Supreme Court seeking a federal investigation into the case.

The victim was attacked and raped on September 14 in a field near her home in Hathras district. Details of the barbaric assault emerged last week, and the woman was shifted to Delhis Safdarjung Hospital where she battled for life till Tuesday.

Adityanath spoke to the womans father and set up a three-member special investigation team (SIT), and said a fast-track court will handle the case. The chief minister also announced 25 lakh in compensation to the victims family and a job to a family member.

Also Read: Nirbhaya of Hathras killed by insensitive government: Sonia Gandhi

In a tweet, the chief ministers office said the Prime Minister spoke to Adityanath over the case. Respected Prime Minister @narendramodi Ji has spoken on the Hathras incident and said that strict action should be taken against the culprits, the post said.

The men arrested for the crime will now face charges under section 302 (murder) of the Indian Penal Code, according to Hathras superintendent of police Vikrant Vir.

The family left Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi on Tuesday night amid heavy police deployment and reached the village in Hathras after arrival of the body of the woman, a family member told PTI.

Though they were present in the village, family members alleged that they were not allowed to see the body before the last rites. A video shot by locals shows the womans mother as saying: I wanted my daughter to come home first. At least we could have applied haldi on her body. This was her last goodbye. She wont come back now.

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav said the hurried cremation was meant to destroy evidence.

Taking to Twitter, the former state chief minister said cremating the rape victim under the administrations pressure without the consent of her family was against the culture of the state. This act of destroying evidence is condemnable, he wrote.

Also Read: AAP demands CBI probe in Hathras case, FIRs against Delhi cops over assault on MLA

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said Adityanath must resignation since he has no moral right to continue.

After 15 days, he (Adityanath) has made a statement and what does he say that PM called and I have constituted an SIT. Were you waiting for the PMs phone call, you could not do anything for 15 days, you did not provide her treatment, did not take her to a good hospital, she was brought to Delhi only day before yesterday, the Congress general secretary said.

Uttar Pradesh BJP chief Swatantra Dev said the government acted quick and set up an SIT to probe the case in a time-bound manner. Let me assure you that all those responsible for gruesome crime would be dealt with in a befitting manner, he said.

Former Uttar Pradesh director general of police Prakash Singh said the teenagers rape was a tragedy but how police reacted after her death on Tuesday was a double tragedy.

The handling of her cremation should have been in a better way. The police are competent enough to deal with any possible law-and-order crisis in these situations. They should have taken the young womans family into confidence. Her family was already traumatised and should have been allowed to see the body or perform the final rites, he said.

The police action has only compounded the problem and mistrust. It is a failure of leadership and was badly handled. Who issued the orders for the midnight cremation? Was it issued by the director-general, inspector general, or a political figure, maybe someone at the ministerial level, said Singh, who headed Uttar Pradesh Police between 1991 and 1993.
All India Committee (AICC) in-charge of Bihar Shaktisinh Gohil on Wednesday said that all like-minded parties should come together for Bihar Assembly polls or they can choose another option if there is some compulsion.

"It was shocking to see some (RJD) leaders' statements over seat arrangement. We have talked over seat arrangments. If there is an issue on this, then there should be a discussion between leaders of both parties. We want that all like-minded parties should come together, however, if there is some compulsion they can choose another option," Gohil told ANI.

"We have an old alliance with RJD. Secular votes should not be divided. It is the demand of this time," he said.

He said that the screening committee meeting was held on Wednesday in which Bihar unit chief Madan Mohan Jha, CLP leader Sadanand Singh and senior party leaders from the state were present.

"We are trying to give a good alternative in Bihar," he said.

According to a leader present in the meeting, besides CLP leader and PCC Chief, heads of frontal organisations also attended the meeting and gave a list of potential candidates from their respective wings of the party like Youth and Mahila

"Congress is also working on a plan B if things don't go well in seat sharing. The party has conducted surveys also on the possible seats to fight and all potential candidates too," the leader added.

Earlier, RJD leader Manoj Jha said that Congress should not be stubborn over the seat-sharing formula.

During his Patna visit, Avinash Pandey, chief of Congress screening committee for Bihar polls, said that the party is ready to contest all 243 seats if a respectful seat-sharing agreement within Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance) is not reached.

The RJD-Congress-Left alliance is holding final rounds of seat-sharing talks for Bihar assembly and an announcement is likely to be made soon.

Ahead of the announcement, RJD and Congress are pressurising each other to get more "winnable seats". Sources said negotiations between RJD and Congress are still being held on about 10 seats.

They said RJD is likely to contest about 150 seats in the 243-member assembly.

"Congress will get about 70 seats and the Left parties are will be given around 20 seats," a source told ANI.

The nomination for the first phase of voting in Bihar will start from October 1.

The sources said that it was decided during the beginning of negotiations that seat-sharing will be based on 2015 formula, according to which 41 seats were to go to Congress and 101 seats to RJD.

Of the remaining 101 seats, which were fought by Janata Dal (United) in 2015, 50 were to be fought by RJD, 30 by Congress and 20 by Left parties.

The sources said Congress has been cautious due to the experience it had in 2019 Lok Sabha "when 12 seats were fixed for the party in the alliance but later got only nine seats".

Bihar assembly will be held in three phases -- October 28, November 3 and 7 and the counting of votes will take place on November 10.

In the 2015 Assembly polls, JD-U, RJD, and Congress had fought the elections together under the Mahagathbandhan banner. On the other hand, the BJP-led NDA had fought the elections with Lok Janshakti Party and other allies.

RJD with 80 seats had emerged as the single largest party in the elections, followed by JD-U (71), and BJP (53). However, BJP got the largest vote share (24.42 per cent), followed by RJD with 18.35 per cent and JD-U (16.83 per cent).

Differences later emerged between the RJD and JD-U and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar returned to NDA.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Ryerson University held a virtual celebration to mark the opening of its brand new, hands-on, innovative law school.

Of course, when plans for the new school were in the works, there was no pandemic. In the time since, all the discussions and hiring went virtual  Dean Donna Young has yet to meet most faculty and staff in person  and the ribbon-cutting and grand opening held Wednesday had to be moved online.

I think I can safely say that we are the only law school in North America that is opening during a pandemic, but thats historic, Young said with a laugh.

Right now, just two classes are being offered in person  albeit with small numbers of students showing up, about 10 to 20  with most courses offered online. Knowing most of the learning would be virtual, the law school began offering orientation sessions for students in July, hosting panel discussions, guest speakers and meetings with faculty to start building a sense of community.

Some professors are even recording podcasts to help curb students screen time.

Ryerson first pitched the law school program in 2016, but the provincial government of the day initially said it would not provide financial support. However, last August, the province approved the juris doctor program and then Ryerson received word that the Ontario government would allow the students who attend its law school to access student aid, but no additional operating funds.

The university has said it will accept 150 students each year, with tuition of $21,100, which is more than $10,000 less than the University of Toronto and slightly lower than York Universitys fees.

Ryersons law school focuses on hands-on learning, financial literacy, equity, access to justice  which includes working at community legal clinics  and providing students with mentoring.

Typically law students take three years of schooling and complete a year of articling. At Ryerson, students will earn their degree in three years, which includes a semester-long work placement.

Young said that the first-year curriculum includes co-teachers  lawyers currently practising in the field  who work alongside faculty members.

Building the school from scratch, especially during a pandemic, means there were no impromptu discussions, no impromptu brainstorming sessions, no talking in the hallway  everything had to be scheduled. Everything was video-chat or telephone, she said.

But connections are happening. One student, Ridhey Gill, started a blog and has been interviewing the first class of law students so they can get to know each other, and for the outside world to see who they all are.

Being a member of the first law class at Ryerson is such an incredible opportunity, she said. I figured people want to know whats happening; I wanted to do something different ... and showcase the excellence that could be expected to come out of Ryerson law.

As well, its a great way for me to meet Ryerson students and put faces to the names of students going to this brand new school.

Gill completed an undergraduate degree at Ryerson and used to joke that I would only go to law school if Ryerson had one. Then she learned one was on the way.

The practicality of the program was a huge selling point for me, she said. Im someone who learns by doing. Theory in itself is not enough to prepare people.

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Mali's military junta has abandoned a contentious measure that would have enabled its leader to potentially replace the interim civilian leader of the Sahel state, according to an official document released Thursday.

Under an early roadmap for restoring civilian rule after the August 18 coup, seen by AFP, junta head Colonel Assimi Goita was empowered to replace the president of the interim government if the latter were incapacitated.

Goita is vice president of an interim government that is due to govern Mali for 18 months before staging elections; former colonel Bah Ndaw is its president.

But the possibility of Goita replacing Ndaw sparked friction among the country's neighbours, who said it was unacceptable.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) heaped pressure on Mali to swiftly restore civilian rule after army officers toppled president Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, imposing sanctions against the country and shutting its borders.

The bloc has also urged Mali to publish the roadmap -- or 'transition charter' -- that sets out the interim government's powers.

On Thursday, a final version of the roadmap was published in Mali's official journal, with no mention of the interim vice president replacing the president.

"The vice president is in charge of defence and security," the document said.

Current ECOWAS trade restrictions include a ban commercial trade and financial flows, but not basic necessities, drugs, equipment to fight coronavirus, fuel or electricity.

As well as pushing for civilian leaders for Mali's interim government, the bloc wants the junta to release officials arrested during the coup.

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(Reuters) - Wales manager Ryan Giggs has backed Gareth Bale to put his troubled Real Madrid spell behind him and rediscover his best form following his return to Tottenham Hotspur.

Bale, 31, secured a loan move from Real back to his former team last month, ending a tumultuous but trophy-laden seven-year spell with the Spanish champions.

The Welsh forward won four Champions League titles during his time in Spain but found himself marginalised after falling out with manager Zinedine Zidane.

"He will play more regularly than he did at Madrid," Giggs told British media. "I think it's a good move for Gareth, it's good for Spurs and good for the Premier League in general, to have someone like that who we can watch every week.

"He's at a club he knows well with a very good manager and I think he's said himself it's like going back home."

Giggs hopes regular game time for Bale would re-ignite his career, boosting Wales' chances at Euro 2020 next year.

"It will be so much better if he is playing regularly. He will be sharper, will be able to play those two games in a short space of time," Giggs, 46, said.

"He's been able to manage it and produce performances because he looks after himself because of his quality and the experience he's got, but it will be so much better when he is playing regularly."

Bale will miss Wales' Nations League fixtures against Ireland and Bulgaria due to a knee injury.

(Reporting by Arvind Sriram in Bengaluru; Editing by Christian Schmollinger)
(Natural News) A population control group from Minnesota called World Population Balance is taking aim at reproductive health rights and family health with a racist new billboard ad that targets African American families. The advertisement condemns family growth and well being, while threatening minorities to get abortions to prevent family growth.

The group runs a project called OnePlanetOneChild. They posted a billboard ad in Vancouver, British Columbia with an image of a black child, accompanied by the subtitle, The most loving gift you can give your first child is to not have another.

Predatory population control group takes aim at the African American community

This is perhaps the only acceptable form of racism today, said pro-life activist Obianuju Ekeocha, who speaks up for all families, especially those in the African American community. Take a good look at it, notice the black baby theyve chosen to use for their population control messaging.

Ekeocha founded the Culture of Life Africa and calls out world leaders when their abortion policies put Africans in the crosshairs for depopulation. In her book, Target Africa: Ideological Neo-colonialism of the Twenty-First Century, Ekeocha details how elitists want to depopulate the continent of Africa and take advantage of the people living there. The United Nations is busy propagating Africa with their education programs that promote abortion.

In a press release, the executive director of World Population Balance, Dave Gardner, proclaimed his desire to get Canadians talking about having smaller families. Gardner is obsessed with controlling other peoples lives. He condemns families for being selfish when they expand in size. In essence, Gardner wants control over women and their bodies, shaming women to participate in infanticide because its the right thing to do for the good of the planet.

We want to get Canada talking about overpopulation. A surprising number of journalists, elected officials, and the public are unaware the world is overpopulated or uncomfortable talking about it. Many dont realize the solution to overpopulation  and much of the environmental destruction it causes  is simply to embrace the accelerating trend toward freely chosen smaller families, Gardner said.

The groups billboard ads have previously appeared in Minneapolis and Denver. Their newest ads read, We Chose One! and We Chose Childfree! The ads also target pro-life advocates, while pushing the idea of using abortion as a way to cut population growth. Traffic congestion starts at conception, claims one of the ads, taking a shot at the pro-life community and their dedicated efforts to empower women to make healthy choices.

Population control fanatics believe they are a supreme authority

Population control fanatics believe that the Earth has finite resources that are being depleted and destroyed by humans. They believe that human breath and energy use will ultimately destroy the planet, even though the Earth has been around for millions of centuries and survived hundreds of generations of people. As the population has reached 7 billion people, there has never been more progress in human history, with quality of life rising for millions. Human beings are capable of driving progress and being the worlds greatest resource. Family growth brings purpose, not destitution.

Population control fanatics believe that overcrowded cities are evidence that the Earth itself is overpopulated, even though there is uninhabited, undeveloped land and natural resources abounding just beyond the city walls. They believe there is a magic number of people that have a right to roam the planet. They believe they are some kind of supreme authority, constraining the rights of some while prioritizing their own selfish, greedy livelihood. Population control fanatics are of the same mindset of the Chinese Communist Party, which persecutes family growth, forces abortions, and sets limits of one child per family.

Who gets to decide who lives, who procreates and what races get to survive? Learn more at PopulationControl.news.

Sources include:

LifeSiteNews.com

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Hathras rape victim burnt like orphan under police force: Sonia

India

oi-Briti Roy Barman

New Delhi, Oct 01: Congress president Sonia Gandhi lashed out at UP govt after the death of Hathras gangrape victim saying the girl did not die but was killed by a "cruel and insensitive" government and its administration.

Congress chief said that the 19-year-old Hathras gangrape victim was burned like orphans under police coercion.

Gandhi said, 'Nirbhaya of Hathras' did not die, she was murdered by the neglect of a ruthless government, the administration, and the Uttar Pradesh government."

Hathras gang-rape case: NHRC issues notice to Uttar Pradesh govt, state police chief

She added, "After her death, she was not even allowed to have the soil from her home."

In a video message, she said the country will speak up against this injustice and not allow the BJP to divide the country and violate the Constitution.

"This incident is a blot on our society. I want to ask is it a sin to be a girl? Is it a crime to be the daughter of a poor? What was the UP government doing? For weeks, the family's cry for justice was not heard. There was an attempt to cover up the issue. The girl was not given proper treatment. Today, our daughter has left us. I want to say that the Nirbhaya of Hathras did not die, she was killed by an insensitive government and its administration," Gandhi said.

Notably, the Dalit woman who was gang-raped and murdered by four men in Uttar Pradesh's Hathras, was cremated late night after the victim succumbed to the injuries on Tuesday morning at AIIMS, Delhi.

Her family alleged that police did not allow them to bring the body to home and cremated without their presence.

Hathras sealed ahead of Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi's visit|Oneindia News

"Even after her death, the girl was denied dignity and not handed over to her family. A weeping mother could not see her daughter for the last time. This is a grave sin. Her body was cremated by force. There is dignity in death. Our Hindu religion is clear about it. But she was cremated like an orphan by the police," she added.

"What kind of justice is this? What kind of a government is this? You think you can do anything and the nation will sit and watch. Never, the nation will speak against your injustice. On behalf of the Congress party, I demand justice for the family. India belongs to everyone. Everyone has the right to live with dignity. The Constitution has given us this right. We will not allow the BJP to break the country and violate the Constitution," the Congress president said.

Hathras gangrape: Plea in SC for CBI probe, transfer of trial to Delhi

Earlier in the day, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi also took on Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for the death of Hathras rape victim, saying Adityanath doesn't have any moral right to continue as a CM.

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Story first published: Thursday, October 1, 2020, 9:50 [IST]
A former Pentagon leader who's viewed as the next likely defense secretary if Joe Biden becomes president said installing troops at polling places this fall would be a risk to American democracy.

"I would hate to see a situation where we have to inject the military and the Guard into our democratic elections," Michele Flournoy, the former undersecretary of defense for policy, said on Wednesday. "... I don't think that's a healthy thing for our democracy."

Flournoy, who served at the Pentagon during the Obama administration and co-founded the Center for a New American Security think tank, spoke during an event on military modernization and policy priorities hosted by Defense News.

Read Next: Marines Offer Former Pilots Up to $100K to Come Back to Active Duty

Flournoy said last month she wouldn't turn down a nomination to lead the Pentagon in a possible Biden administration. Such a move would make Flournoy the first-ever female defense secretary.

"I've spent 30 years in some form of public service either in government or in the non-profit sector. That is my calling," she told NBC News during the annual Aspen Security Forum.

"I do think he's the right answer for the country," Flournoy added, speaking of Biden. "And I would do anything to support his success and for the sake of the country."

On Wednesday, Flournoy told Defense News she was troubled by some of the rhetoric she heard about the upcoming election. Without mentioning him by name, Flournoy said she was disturbed by President Donald Trump's mention of poll watchers during Tuesday night's debate.

"I'm urging my supporters to go into the polls and watch very carefully," Trump said. "...They're called poll watchers, a very safe, very nice thing."

Flournoy said calling on people to watch polls could intimidate voters -- a move that's common in nondemocratic nations.

"This is a democratic process. We know how to do this. We've done it over and over and over again, without violence, with peaceful transition," Flournoy said. "That's according to the rule of law, and our Constitution. So, we need to hold each other accountable as Americans to back off of this fire that we're playing with."

Poll watchers are typically installed by candidates or political parties. The 2020 presidential election is the first in decades in which Republican poll-watching activity won't be under court supervision, 60 Minutes reported. In 2018 a, federal court finalized a decision to terminate a "consent decree" the Republican National Committee entered into in the 1980s, according to the news program, following claims that minority voters were harassed at polling places.

Tuesday wasn't the first time the president has called on his supporters to be on alert. At an August rally in North Carolina, Trump urged voters to "watch it."

"Be poll-watchers when you go there," the president said. "Watch all the thieving and stealing and robbing they do."

Flournoy said she's not only worried about the potential use of troops at polling places on Election Day, but also the threat of violence should the results be thrown into question. That could prompt governors to ask the National Guard to step in.

"I hope we don't get there as a nation," she said. "... Our democracy is on the line here in how we behave in this coming season. We need to try to calm things down rather than whip them up into a point of violence."

-- Gina Harkins can be reached at gina.harkins@military.com. Follow her on Twitter @ginaaharkins.

Related: First Presidential Debate Heavy on Insults, Light on Veteran and Military Issues
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TechnipFMC (NYSE: FTI) (PARIS: FTI) (ISIN:GB00BDSFG982) announces today that Margareth vrum, Executive Vice President of Equinor ASA, Development and Production Brazil,has been appointed to its Board of Directors, effective October 1, 2020.

Doug Pferdehirt, Chairman and CEO of TechnipFMC, stated "I am delighted to welcome Margareth to the Board. She brings proven business leadership and a global perspective gained in board and executive positions of international public companies. Margareth's extensive knowledge of projects, technology, health and safety, sustainability, and digital transformation will be invaluable as we continue to expand our capabilities. Margareth will deeply complement our Board of Directors, strengthening the Board's range of aptitude and expertise."

About Margareth vrum

Ms. vrum, 62, has over 38 years of experience at Equinor (formerly Statoil), a Norwegian energy company, currently serving as Executive Vice President of Equinor ASA, Development and Production Brazil. Ms. vrum will retire from Equinor as of January 1, 2021. Ms. vrum has held a succession of leadership positions at Equinor, including President, Equinor Brazil, from 2018 to 2020; Executive Vice President of Technology, Projects, and Drilling, from 2011 to 2018, Executive Vice President of Technology and New Energy for Statoil Hydro, from 2007 to 2011, Executive Vice President of Technology and Projects, from 2004 to 2007, and Executive Vice President of Health, Safety, and the Environment, during 2004. Ms. vrum is currently on the Board of Directors of FMC Corporation. She previously served on the Boards of Directors of Alfa Laval AB (2015 to 2019), Atlas Copco AB (2008 to 2017), and Ratos AB (2009 to 2014). Ms. vrum holds a Master of Science degree in Technical Physics from the Norwegian Technical University (now part of the Norwegian University of Science and Technology).

About TechnipFMC

TechnipFMC is a global leader in the energy industry, delivering projects, products, technologies and services. With our proprietary technologies and production systems, integrated expertise, and comprehensive solutions, we are transforming our customers' project economics.

Organized in three business segments Subsea, Surface Technologies and Technip Energies we are uniquely positioned to deliver greater efficiency across project lifecycles from concept to project delivery and beyond. Through innovative technologies and improved efficiencies, our offering unlocks new possibilities for our customers in developing their energy resources and in their positioning to meet the energy transition challenge.

Each of our approximately 37,000 employees is driven by a steady commitment to clients and a culture of project execution, purposeful innovation, challenging industry conventions, and rethinking how the best results are achieved.

TechnipFMC utilizes its website www.TechnipFMC.com as a channel of distribution of material company information. To learn more about us and how we are enhancing the performance of the world's energy industry, go to www.TechnipFMC.com and follow us on Twitter @TechnipFMC.

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The almost unprecedented effort by one grand juror to force the release of records of the proceedings that returned no indictments in the death of Breonna Taylor could shed light on a typically secret process that criminal-defense experts say can be abused by prosecutors to deflect responsibility onto anonymous citizens.

After Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron announced that the Louisville police officers who fired 22 shots into Taylors apartment in March would not be charged with her death, supporters and attorneys for her family called on him to release the recordings and the transcripts of the proceedings.

If [Cameron] used the grand jury as a shield in order to not give justice to Breonna Taylor, we NEED to know, civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump, who represented Taylors family in negotiating a $12 million settlement with the city in a wrongful death suit, said Wednesday on Twitter. We need to know if Bre was disrespected in the courtroom. We need to know if there was transparency. We need the transcripts with no more delays!

Last week, Cameron announced that the grand jury indicted Officer Brett Hankison on charges of wanton endangerment during the late-night raid on Taylors apartment. Hankison allegedly fired shots that entered a neighbors apartment. No one in that apartment was injured and he is not charged with shooting Taylor.

The other two officers involved in the case, Sgt. Jonathan Mattingly and police Detective Myles Cosgrove, who fired the shot that killed Taylor, were not charged. Cameron said their actions were justified because Taylors boyfriend shot at them first. The decision outraged Taylors supporters and sparked protests in Louisville and across the nation.

Cameron initially declined to talk about the proceedings. But on Monday, an anonymous grand jury member filed a motion asking a judge to compel the release of the recordings of the grand jury proceedings, which was granted. Camerons office said it would comply, although it asked for more time to vet the materials.

Story continues

Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron. (Timothy D. Easley/AP)

On Friday, Camerons office is expected to submit the recordings to the Jefferson County Circuit Court. The impending release could potentially address questions unanswered since the Sept. 23 announcement. What evidence did Cameron share with the jury? What did Cameron omit? Who testified? Who didnt?

What youll hear is what they were asked to decide, civil rights attorney DeWitt Lacy, a former defense lawyer, told Yahoo News. What you should hear is what evidence was given to the grand jury and how it was presented.

That central question seemed to spur the anonymous grand jury member to seek to shed light on a process that is legally and intentionally withheld from the public. The juror, according to the motion, disagreed with how Cameron characterized the outcome of the proceedings.

The Attorney General publicly made many statements that referenced what the grand jury heard and decisions that were made based on what certain witnesses said, the motion said. He further laid those decisions at the feet of the grand jury while failing to answer specific questions regarding the charges presented.

It wasnt until after the motion was made public Monday that Cameron revealed that his office did not present homicide charges to the grand jury. In an interview Tuesday with Louisville news outlet WDRB-TV, Cameron said it wasnt appropriate to recommend charges for Mattingly and Cosgrove.

The grand jury is an independent body, Cameron told the station. If they wanted to make an assessment about different charges, they could have done that. But our recommendation was that Mattingly and Cosgrove were justified in their acts and their conduct."

The grand jury is indeed an independent body with the legal authority to consider other charges. But theyre not lawyers, said Andrea Roth, a criminal law professor at the Berkeley School of Law, in an interview with Yahoo News. So they rely on the prosecutor to figure out which charges would make sense.

In Kentucky, a grand jury must indict a suspect before a prosecutor can move forward with a trial. The grand jury indictment, which is required by the Constitution in federal cases but not necessarily in state courts, is seen as providing an important check on state power, Roth said.

The grand jury is there basically to have a check towards the beginning of the process that this is a prosecution that makes sense to bring, before somebody has to deal with having a case hanging over their head.

But unlike a trial jury, in which all members must agree on a decision, only a majority of a grand jury needs to be convinced by prosecutors.

The prosecutor gets to put on whatever evidence they want, Roth said. They dont have to put on exculpatory evidence, meaning evidence that tends to show that the defendant is innocent. They can pick and choose. They can cherry-pick the evidence that they put in front of the grand jury.

Black Lives Matter protesters march in Louisville, Ky., in September. (Darron Cummings/AP)

Although the grand jury process in the Taylor case is being criticized as a way for prosecutors like Cameron to give themselves cover, its privacy serves an important purpose, Roth said  its intended to protect everyone involved, and preserve the integrity of the case.

The anonymous jurors attempt to make the proceedings public is a rare move even in a high-profile case, experts told Yahoo News.

It is very unusual, Lacy said. Its not completely unprecedented to have a grand jury member ask or demand. Its much more than an ask when they file a legal action.

Roth mentioned another high-profile case, the 2014 shooting death of Michael Brown, as an example of a grand jury proceeding that was publicly disclosed. Robert McCulloch, then the St. Louis County prosecuting attorney, released the materials after a grand jury decided not to indict Ferguson, Mo., Police Officer Darren Wilson in Browns death.

Camerons decision to comply with the order to release the recordings did little to restore his credibility with those who are critical of how he handled the investigation.

So he waits until a Grand Juror wants to come forward  basically because Cameron misrepresented to the public the decision of the GJ  to be honest about what charges he actually presented, Lonita Baker, an attorney for Taylors family, said on Facebook. Daniel Cameron said that the GJ agreed with his offices finding that the Mattingly and Cosgrove were justified  we now know that was a lie.

Breonna Taylor. (Handout)

Taylor, 26, died after police tried to enter her residence on March 13 while she and her boyfriend, Kenneth Walker, were sleeping. Louisville officials said officers were issued a no-knock warrant, but the officers knocked anyway and announced themselves before breaking down the door.

Walker said he heard a pounding at the door but didnt hear police announce themselves, the city said. He fired his licensed handgun and hit Mattingly in the thigh, according to Cameron. The officers all returned fire.

Evidence shows that officers both knocked and announced their presence, Cameron said Wednesday, adding that after Walker fired his gun, police responded with 22 shots of their own. A ballistic analysis, Cameron said, determined that a shot by Cosgrove killed Taylor.

Hankison, from a different vantage point, fired his weapon 10 times, Cameron said, sending bullets into at least one adjacent apartment, occupied by at least three neighbors.

Many people have questioned why Hankison is charged with endangering others but not Taylor.

Shooting a gun inside of the [apartment], by definition thats a calculated risk, Justin Nix, a policing expert at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, told Yahoo News. The other two officers [Mattingly and Cosgrove] were deemed to have acted a little more reasonably with their return fire.

Police and protesters converge during a demonstration in Louisville. (John Minchillo/AP)

After Camerons account of the shooting, reports have emerged that call some of those details into question. Vice News reported that the initial ballistics report from Kentucky State Police failed to prove that Mattinglys bullet wound came from Walkers gun, and not from one of the other officers, according to records it obtained.

Camerons office began investigating in May after a local prosecutor recused himself. Last week, Baker said a special prosecutor should be appointed to present charges on Taylors behalf, ABC News reported. A grand jury can be convened multiple times.

Part of the [grand jury] criticism is that the attorney generals or the district attorneys are not presenting all the evidence in an unbiased manner, Lacy said. That theres an agenda behind the presentation of the evidence besides getting the evidence to a jury of peers. I think the danger that it does systemically is it erodes the confidence people have that the system will work fairly.

_____

Read more from Yahoo News:
The Trump administration has proposed including a $20 billion extension in aid for the battered airline industry in a new stimulus proposal to House Democrats worth over $1.5 trillion, White House chief of staff Mark Meadows said on Wednesday.

House Democrats, who had sought $2.2 trillion in relief funds to combat the effects of the coronavirus on the U.S. economy, had been at loggerheads over the new measure with the White House, which had proposed legislation worth $1.5 trillion.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Meadows said the White Houses latest offer was generous but 2 trillion was too much.

If it starts with a 2, its going to be a real problem, he told reporters en route to Washington from the swing state of Minnesota where U.S. President Donald Trump headlined a rally ahead of elections in November.
CENTRE WELLINGTON  A Centre Wellington 2021 preliminary budget report is showing a $2 million reduction in slots revenue this year and recommends pushing back a major road project to 2022.

The OLG makes quarterly payments to the township for hosting a casino with 2019s payments totalling $2.7 million.

A previous estimate from June anticipated 2020s payments to total over $1.6 million, but the latest report reduced that expected figure to $740,000.

Elements Casino Grand River in Elora opened early this week after being closed for six months. During the closure the town received no payments.

The last payment received in April was $572,700 and the report projects the last payment will be approximately $170,000, 25 per cent less than 2019s fourth-quarter payment, due to reduced occupancy limits at the casino.

The funds are required by policy to be split among three sections: 88 per cent to capital projects, five per cent to arts, culture and heritage and the remaining to economic development.

This will have a significant impact on township capital project funding in 2021 as well as available funds for economic development and arts, culture and heritage, said the report by treasurer Dan Wilson says.

A $2.1 million road reconstruction project on St. George Street East in Fergus reflects this loss as the report recommends deferring to 2022.

Originally proposed for 2021, this project would have seen a full road reconstruction, sidewalks being built, and replaced watermain and sanitary sewers between Gatshore and Herrick Street.

Some leftover funds from 2019s OLG funds are being used towards the 2021 budget but these only amount to just over $300,000 with a majority going to economic development.

Centre Wellington council will discuss these changes at Mondays committee of the whole meeting.
By Online Desk

Actor-director Anurag Kashyap has reached the Versova Police station in Mumbai in connection with the sexual assault allegations raised by actor Payal Ghosh against him.

The actor reached the police station at around 10 AM along with two associates, an official said, adding that his lawyer also reached the police station shortly after.

Versova police is probing the case under sections 376 (I) (rape), 354 (outraging modesty of woman), 341 (wrongful restraint) and 342 (wrongful confinement), an official said.

Maharashtra: Film director Anurag Kashyap reaches Versova Police station in Mumbai to appear before the police in connection with the alleged sexual assault against actor Payal Ghosh. pic.twitter.com/dWKbrmxHji  ANI (@ANI) October 1, 2020

The Mumbai police had summoned the actor days after Payal Ghosh said she would resort to a hunger strike if no action is taken against filmmaker Anurag Kashyap.

Ghosh had told reporters that Kashyap had not been arrested yet despite the FIR because he is an "influential person".

On Tuesday, Ghosh and Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale met Maharashtra Governor B S Koshyari to seek action against Kashyap.

After the meeting, Athawale told reporters that the governor said he will speak with Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh on the issue.

Kashyap on the other hand has dismissed the allegations and termed them "baseless".

The 'Gangs of Wasseypur' director has also received support from the Bollywood fraternity including ex-wives Arti Bajaj and Kalki Koechlin backing him.

(With PTI inputs)
A mother drowned at a New Jersey beach while saving her daughter and two sons when a current dragged them out to sea.

The unidentified family from Wernersville, Pennsylvania was on a vacation in North Wildwood when the tragedy unfolded on Tuesday.

Authorities said they received a 911 call reporting four swimmers in distress after the 19-year-old daughter and two sons, aged eight and 10, had trouble swimming in the rough water.

A video taken by a witness, Jonathan Selepak, showed a large emergency response at the shoreline.

Authorities said a mother-of-five drowned on Tuesday while trying to save three of her children from rip currents at a North Wildwood, New Jersey, beach (pictured)

The mother, 49, went into the water for her children after they were pulled out too far.

'The mother was calling out to them to come back and when she saw they were having trouble, she jumped into the water,' Fire Chief Dominick J. McClain told NJ.com.

The woman was able to rescue both her sons, but the daughter continued to struggle in the water and the mother went back for her.

Authorities said in the press release that emergency crews located the daughter about 50 yards from the shoreline and brought her back to shore.

But for the mother, it was too late.

Authorities located the mother face down in the ocean about 150 yards north of the family's initial location.

'Crew quickly removed the victim from the water via a rescue board,' the press release said. 'Upon exiting the water NWFD and NWBP personnel immediately initiated live-saving measures on the unconscious victim.'

Jonathan Selepak told CBS Philly: 'I saw just the head bobbing up and down because so many people were there. I knew they were doing CPR.'

Meanwhile, CBS Philly reports that her two other children and husband were unaware of the tragic accident because they were at the nearby Montego Bay Hotel.

The mother was taken to Cape Regional Medical Center with AtlantiCare Paramedics on board the ambulance. She was later pronounced dead.

The daughter and two sons were transported to Cape Medical Regional Center for an evaluation, but are expected to be okay.

'Thats the way life works unfortunately and since the kids were saved, thats wonderful, but its unfortunate the mother has had to pass,' Selepak told CBS Philly.
Burger and Ron, two of the most social cat residents at KitTea, a cat cafe and foster home for cats in San Francisco, have noticed the significant decrease in the number of their visitors on a daily basis. And so has the cafes owner.

In the past, visitors to the cafe could eat sweet waffles and drink green tea while cats purred, lounged about, and did the other things only cats can do, but KitTea is yet another San Francisco business that has struggled to remain in business following the COVID-19 sheltering-in-place protocols that were put in place this past March.

Courtney Hatt, the owner of KitTea, knew back then the near future would be financially challenging, so she did what many other business owners have also done: started a GoFundMe page.

Our costs are very high, especially from taking care of cats for their medical needs and food, and everything else, the care that goes into it, Hatt told SFGATE. The rent is extremely expensive for Hayes Valley. We got into this lease when it was very competitive to find a commercial space back in 2014, so we had to quickly ask for support from the community.

The GoFundMe page has since raised just over $40,000, which was its goal amount, with over 800 donors chipping in to help. Hatt has made sure that no single dollar goes to waste.

Hatt says the money has gone to paying their current $10,000 a month rent, feeding the cats, paying her shortened staff, and to keeping the lights on.

KitTea temporarily closed its doors in March due to the sheltering-in-place orders and then opened up again for business in mid-June. Despite the cafes sometimes financial uncertainty, KitTea was able to successfully adapt to the age of COVID-19 and serve its customers.

Weve always been a clean and sanitized space to begin with, says Hatt. It was always standard that people had to take their shoes off and sanitize their hands before going in because things can spread between cats as well, and we dont want the cats or the people to get sick.

Now weve upped our game in cleaning, Hatt adds. Instead of the visiting times being an hour long like how they used to be, each visit is now forty minutes long and twenty minutes go into sanitizing the space for the next guests. We wear our masks. Masks are never taken off.

The cafe is no longer able to serve any of their cafe goods, such as waffles, sandwiches, salads and soups, in order to minimize any unnecessary and risky contact between the customers, the staff and the cats. But customers do leave with their choice of bottled green or herbal tea to drink once they leave.

Although the number of customers has dropped, the number of rescue kittens KitTea take in has done the opposite: It dramatically increased. Why? Kitten season.

Hatt explains that kitten season occurs in the spring and goes until October. Its when the weather is relatively warm, which lasts longer now due to global warming, and feral cats have babies. Due to COVID-19, spay and neuter programs were halted because neither was considered to be an essential operation, thus resulting in an abundance of kittens.

We decided to do our part and we pulled in 25 kittens in the first round. Then we got rid of our tea lounge entirely and we started a kitten room, Hatt says. Now were no longer a cat cafe, were just like a rescue space now.

The recent number of adoptions at KitTea has also increased. Hatt attributes this to a lot of people having time off and working from home because of the shelter-in-place orders. Often it would take weeks to adopt out a kitten and now people are fighting over kittens. Thats been a silver lining, she says.

Another silver lining has been the securing of a new location for the cat cafe on Valencia Street next to Arizmendi Bakery. The move will take place in October, so the cafe temporarily wont be taking in any more kittens. As of last week, there are nine kittens left searching for a permanent home and 14 cats eagerly awaiting some company.

KitTea's GoFundMe page can be found here.

Fernando Martinez is an editorial assistant at SFGATE. Email: fernando.martinez@sfgate.com | Twitter: @fernan_dough
This beta partnership offered both the FOLIO Community and EBSCO the opportunity to address the issues library staff confront across a consortium.

The Five Colleges Consortium, as part of its FOLIO beta partnership with EBSCO Information Services (EBSCO), has become the first consortium to implement FOLIO Electronic Resources Management (ERM). This is the first step in a full FOLIO implementation in 2021. The consortium includes Amherst College, Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke College, Smith College and the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

In 2018, Five Colleges Consortium announced a FOLIO beta partnership with EBSCO, which allowed the institutions to contribute to the development of the library services platform and test FOLIO in large, real-world environments and multiple institutional scenarios. The beta partnership allowed EBSCO and The Five Colleges to contribute to the FOLIO Community and the development of the innovative, reimagined library services platform and demonstrate its viability for consortia.

Associate Dean for Library Technology at UMass Amherst Steve Bischof is the chair of the Five Colleges FOLIO implementation team. Bischof says, The Five Colleges Consortium provides a unique environment for testing FOLIO as we use a shared catalog collection among member institutions. As an EBSCO FOLIO beta partner, our testing ranged from filling the needs of UMass Amherst, a large research university, to those of smaller institutions like Smith College with multiple collections. Adopting ERM is the first step, and we expect to fully implement FOLIO in 2021.

EBSCO FOLIO Services consists of a highly trained, experienced team for easier implementations and service support, as well as sophisticated technology and trained engineers for hosting. EBSCO FOLIO Consulting Services Manager Anya Arnold says working with the five campuses in the consortium allowed implementation specialists to address a variety of issues. This beta partnership offered both the FOLIO Community and EBSCO the opportunity to address the issues library staff confront across a consortium. For ERM functionality to work, EBSCO Product and Development teams worked with the community to enable the ability to connect multiple HLM/FTF API connections to FOLIO, ensuring that each library can still mange unique and independent electronic collections in a shared FOLIO environment. The Five Colleges and EBSCO are on track to fully implement FOLIO and add to the collective knowledge for other consortia looking for their next library services platform.

FOLIO integrates with traditional EBSCO services, including the EBSCO Knowledge Base, which streamlines electronic resource management, and can easily integrate with existing EBSCO resources such as EBSCO Discovery Service (EDS) for better library workflows and patron services. Four libraries of The Five Colleges Consortium use EDS as the library discovery interface, while the fifth uses the EDS API, enabling easy access to traditional catalog functions such as checkouts and placing holds while offering users a simple, intuitive search interface.

About The Five Colleges Consortium

Five Colleges, Incorporated is a nonprofit educational corporation established in 1965 to promote the broad educational and cultural objectives of its associated institutions: four private, residential liberal arts colleges and the flagship campus of the state university. The consortium includes Amherst College, Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke College, Smith College and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. The member institutions have a long history of successful collaborations dating to 1914 in the areas of library subscriptions, joint faculty appointments, public radio, and the history of science and astronomy. Long-standing cooperation among the consortiums libraries gives researchers access to their combined strength, which currently totals some 10 million volumes. Each institutions library has distinctive collections, most of which are broadly accessible for use by students and faculty members through a shared catalog.

About FOLIO

FOLIO is a collaborative effort among libraries, vendors, developers and consortia that leverages open source technology and a community-based effort to redefine library services and innovate based on library futures. By building on what libraries need and by leveraging library expertise as well as vendor capacity and velocity, FOLIO is designed to move libraries forward, build on the services they provide and redefine the role libraries play within their institution. FOLIO also levels the playing field and makes open source technology available to all institutions regardless of size or staffing. FOLIO brings vendors together to innovate and host services for customers and introduces open source as a service to libraries. To sign up to participate or receive more information, go to http://www.folio.org.

About EBSCO Information Services

EBSCO Information Services (EBSCO) is the leading discovery service provider for libraries worldwide with more than 11,000 discovery customers in over 100 countries. EBSCO Discovery Service (EDS) provides each institution with a comprehensive, single search box for its entire collection, offering unparalleled relevance ranking quality and extensive customization. EBSCO is also the preeminent provider of online research content for libraries, including hundreds of research databases, historical archives, and clinical decisions tools serving millions of end users at tens of thousands of institutions. EBSCO is the leading provider of electronic journals & books for libraries, with subscription management for more than 385,000 serials, including more than 170,000 e-journals, as well as online access to more than 1,500,000 e-books. For more information, visit the EBSCO website at: http://www.ebsco.com. EBSCO Information Services is a division of EBSCO Industries, Inc., a family owned company since 1944.

For more information, please contact:

Kathleen McEvoy

Vice President of Communications

(800) 653-2726 ext. 2594

kmcevoy@ebsco.com
I recently read a book that is pertinent to our time. The book is "The Great Influenza - The Epic Story of the Deadliest Plague in History" by John M. Barry and originally published in 2005. The book is a well-researched history of the Spanish Flu of 1918. The similarities of the pandemic in 1918 and our present coronavirus pandemic are remarkable, including the symptoms, modes of transmission of the infection and lack of presidential leadership. Woodrow Wilson, focused on World War I, paid little attention to the illness which was killing thousands. The last words of the book are significant and timely for us all:

"So the final lesson of 1918, a simple one yet the one most difficult to execute, is that those who occupy positions of authority must lessen the panic that can alienate the members of society. A society that takes as its motto, 'every man for himself' is no longer a civilized society.

"Those in authority must retain the public's trust. The way to do that is to distort nothing, to put the best face on nothing, to try to manipulate no one. Lincoln said it best.

"A leader must make whatever horror exists concrete. Only then will people be able to break it apart."
Pictured left to right: Bob Ragosta, Esq.; Thomas Fleming; Carolyn Dion-Motta; Patrick Deady; Al Grant; Hugh Minor; and David DeCubellis.

The Rhode Island Mortgage Bankers Association is pleased to announce that the #RIMBARelief campaign, in support of the RI Community Food Bank, was a tremendous success. Over $18,000 has been raised to date, and members were on-hand to present an initial check of $10,000 to Food Bank representatives on September 17, 2020.

The campaign began in June in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and launched with a video appeal from the RIMBA Board to its members. Initially, a $5,000 contribution was made by the Board, with a challenge to members to match that amount. To date, slightly more than $18,000 in contributions have been made and the link to give remains open for anyone who would like to donate: https://rifoodbank.everydayhero.com/us/rimba-relief.

Additionally, once allowed, RIMBA members will be volunteering to assist the Food Bank with its distribution process. A photo and caption are provided for your use.

About Rhode Island Mortgage Bankers Association

The Rhode Island Mortgage Bankers Association is dedicated to promoting and sustaining responsible home lending in Rhode Island. The mortgage association has over 90 corporate members, which represent thousands of mortgage lenders throughout the state who help businesses and people secure mortgages. As part of its overarching plan to create a better housing market, RIMBA regularly promotes educational initiatives, addresses legislative challenges, and strives to cultivate membership growth. For more information about RIMBA, visit: rimba.org.

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president M K Stalin on



Thursday demanded that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath apologise for the alleged inhumane treatment meted out to Congress leader by police.

Anarchy and unruliness governed Uttar Pradesh, it appeared and not rule of law, he alleged reacting to the crimes against women there and police stopping Congress leaders and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra amid melee.

When and Priyanka were on their way to meet a rape victim's family they were prevented from going ahead and police unleashed the worst kind of force against Rahul and pushed him to the ground, Stalin claimed.

Rahul was shoved by policemen which was inhumane, disrespectful, and went against human rights and democratic ethos and highly condemnable,he said.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath should openly apologise for it, Stalin demanded in a statement.

Rahul was prevented from going ahead with his task of meeting the victim's family, he said.

If this was the treatment meted out to Rahul, who is a Member of Parliament and a leader of a party, what would happen to ordinary people in Uttar Pradesh, he asked.

Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi were on Thursday detained by the police after they were stopped on the Yamuna Expressway in Greater Noida while walking towards Hathras to meet a rape victim's family.

A 19-year-old Dalit woman was allegedly raped by four upper-caste men in Hathras on September 14 and referred to the Safdarjung hospital in Delhi on Monday with spinal cord injuries, paralysis and cuts in her tongue.

She died at around 3 am on Tuesday.

Also, a 22-year-old Dalit woman died after allegedly being raped by two men in Balrampur district of Uttar Pradeshand Stalin referred to these crimes.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Jabalpur airport is getting upgraded and its new terminal is likely to be constructed and commissioned by March 2022, said the Airports Authority of India (AAI) on Tuesday. The new terminal building equipped with world-class passenger facilities will have the capacity to handle 500 passengers during peak hours, the AAI said in a press release. Spread over an area of 1,15,180 sq ft, the terminal building will have three aerobridges, advanced baggage screening system, the modern food court in the landscape area and well-planned car parking for more than 250 cars and buses," the AAI noted.

Apart from the new terminal building, the AAI is also extending the runway and building a new ATC tower, a technical block and a new fire station at the Jabalpur airport. The extended runway would be able to handle bigger aircraft like A320s, the AAI said. The Madhya Pradesh government handed over 468.43 acres of land to the AAI in 2015 for these upgrade works, the press release noted.

The new terminal building is likely to be commissioned by March 2022," it said.

Among the airports due for an upgrade is the construction work at the Deoghar airport in Jharkhand, which is being developed by the AAI in collaboration with the Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and state government at an investment of Rs 400 crore, will be completed soon.

In May 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of the Deoghar airport. Spread across 653.75 acres of land with its terminal building being built in an area of 4,000 sq meter, the second airport in Jharkhand after Ranchi would have a 2,500-meter-long runway and will be compliant for Airbus 320 type of aircraft, the Airport Authority of India (AAI) said in a release.
MBABANE  Standard Bank has unveiled a first-of-its-kind digital branch that will operate 24 hours a day in the country.

The unique and elegant new digital branch was opened yesterday to its customers and comes at a time when the bank is busy repositioning its brand from Moving Forward to It Can Be.

It is situated at the Lubombo Mall in Siteki.

Chief Executive Mvuselelo Fakudze said the banks aspiration was to instil hope and confidence in a better financial future for emaSwati.

This will come as good news to people living in Siteki as for the longest time; they had to travel to neighbouring towns to seek bank services.

Standard Bank customers will no longer need to wait for the bank to open at 08:30am to make cash deposits or withdrawals because the newly-opened digital branch will now be fully operational.

Fakudze said they were excited to contribute to the development which was currently being experienced in the area.

He said as a banking institution, they believed that to drive the growth of the kingdom, it was pivotal to harness the opportunities that global technological advancements had created.
Senate Armed Services Committee leaders paid a visit Fort Hood, Texas this week in the wake of a new campaign by the post's new senior commander to rebuild soldier trust following the murder of Spc. Vanessa Guillen.

Sen. Jim Inhofe, R-Okla., who chairs committee, and ranking member Jack Reed, D-R.I., met with Maj. Gen. John Richardson IV, the new deputy commander of III Corps and Fort Hood during a visit to the installation on Monday.

Both lawmakers said they were encouraged that Richardson has launched a year-long effort designed to improve unit cohesion at the installation that has suffered 28 soldier deaths this year including Guillen, a 20-year-old 3rd Cavalry Regiment soldier allegedly murdered by a fellow soldier.

Read Next: 6 Missiles Intercepted Targeting Airport in Northern Iraq That Houses US Troops

"We had a productive day at Fort Hood, where it is clear that the new leadership is making positive changes to improve the command culture and climate on base," Inhofe and Reed said in a joint statement. "We saw clearly how a breakdown of cohesion among too many units resulted in the problems we've seen recently."

The senators' visit to Hood comes after Rep. Jackie Speier, D-Calif., the chair of the House Armed Services military personnel subcommittee, and several other lawmakers visited the base in mid-September searching for answers in the series of tragic soldier deaths at the base. Guillen was missing from April until July when her remains were discovered off-post.

Army Spc. Aaron Robinson is accused of murdering Guillen on post and with the help of 22-year-old Cecily Aguilar, a civilian and the estranged wife of a Fort Hood soldier, who reportedly smuggled her body to a remote site in Bell County, where they allegedly mutilated and disposed of it.

Robinson shot and killed himself June 30 when confronted by police, and Aguilar was charged with conspiracy to tamper with evidence.

"The tragic murder of Vanessa Guillen has made sure the Army and Senate Armed Services Committee are focused on Fort Hood," the senators said in their statement. "We're going to make sure the issues are fixed and won't let up until we get to the bottom of it. We saw firsthand the outpouring of love and respect Spc. Guillen's colleagues and community had for her and we owe it to her, her family, and every soldier to ensure justice is served."

In early September, Army Forces Command sent Richardson to replace Maj. Gen. Scott Efflandt as the senior commander at Hood until the current III Corps Commander, Lt. Gen. Pat White, returns next month. White has been deployed as the leader of Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve, which oversees the fight against ISIS in Iraq and Syria.

Efflandt and other leaders at Hood are the subject of multiple investigations to examine the command climate at Hood and whether it set the conditions for Guillen's murder.

On Sept. 28, Richardson ordered a week-long training standdown designed to give leaders time to invest in relationship with their soldiers in an attempt to rebuild unit cohesion.

The pause to training is part of a year-long effort, dubbed Operation Phantom Action, that's designed to "reset and re-baseline expectations of leaders," Sgt. Maj. Joey Thompson, a spokesman for Fort Hood, told Military.com.

The intensity of training demands has caused unit leaders to neglect taking the time to know their soldiers and build strong bonds of trust, Thompson said.

"The number one thing that gets in the way of doing that effectively is time," Thompson said. "In order for us to be able to do this, we need to give commanders time to do it.

"The way we do that is by taking things off the calendar for a week -- a recertification plan from top to bottom from the deputy commanding general down to the team leader."

Another way to rebuild trust is to ensure soldiers know leaders are being held accountable, Richardson told Military.com.

"I think right now soldiers don't see leaders being held accountable," Richardson said.

An example of this could be ensuring a lieutenant gets a general officer letter of reprimand for driving under the influence of alcohol, Richardson said.

"I think everybody in the company should know that," Richardson said. "It should not be, the lieutenant came up and got his letter of reprimand from me, and it just goes into his file and no one ever knows. That should be public knowledge in the company."

Richardson's back-to-basics approach made an impression on Inhofe and Reed.

"While serious changes need to be made, we were both encouraged by the accountability and commitment to change we saw from [Maj.] Gen. Richardson, who took command just five weeks ago," according to Inhofe and Reed's statement. "He promised us we'd see a new command climate at Fort Hood in 90 days. We look forward to visiting again then."

-- Matthew Cox can be reached at matthew.cox@military.com.

Related: New Fort Hood Commander Orders Training Pause to Rebuild Soldiers' Trus
Democrats get away with awful things. Hillary Clinton left four Americans to die in Benghazi and put America's state secrets on an unprotected server, but she's still tossing back drinks on the cocktail party circuit. Four years after Obama and his minions tried to throw an election and then embarked on a coup effort, they're still getting the big bucks from Netflix and book tours. Our government may be useless when it comes to justice, but private people are pushing back. The latest example comes from super-attorney Lin Wood, who plans to sue Joe Biden for running an ad accusing Kyle Rittenhouse, who was almost killed by Antifa members, of being a white supremacist for firing on them in self-defense.

To appreciate Joe Biden's mindset, you need to know that, while "racist" was the leftists' all-purpose insult during the Obama years, they've upped the ante during the Trump years. Now, the all-purpose insult is the more focused and vicious "white supremacist." We saw it when Chris Wallace, a man who lacks the integrity of a junkyard dog, asked Trump to disavow white supremacists, as if Trump has not already done so repeatedly, including to Chris Wallace:

2016: Trump denounced white supremacy to Chris Wallace



2020: Chris Wallace tries the same HOAX, this time talking over Trump



See it for yourself. It was a setup by Racist Hoaxer Chris Wallace! pic.twitter.com/BbxsJs2BTI  Ali Alexander  (@ali) September 30, 2020

In today's political climate, "white supremacist" is the left's worst slur. That's why it matters that Joe Biden tweeted out a political ad accusing Kyle Rittenhouse of being a white supremacist:

Theres no other way to put it: the President of the United States refused to disavow white supremacists on the debate stage last night. pic.twitter.com/Q3VZTW1vUV  Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) September 30, 2020

Let me take a moment to let the irony sink in that it is Biden making this accusation. This is the same Biden who:

In other words, Biden is the paradigmatic Democrat, obsessed with race and always willing to use racial slurs and stereotypes to support his quest for perpetual political power. It's a supreme irony that Biden, of all people, would call Kyle Rittenhouse a white supremacist.

Incidentally, there isn't a scintilla of evidence that Kyle is anything other than a nice kid who loved serving his community. Moreover, Biden might have missed the fact that not only was Kyle acting in self-defense, but the three people he shot were all white.

Lin Wood is the attorney who is representing Nick Sandmann. As you may recall, Sandmann stood patiently and smiled uncomfortably when a creepy old man drummed in his face. For that gentlemanlike behavior, the fact that Sandmann was wearing a MAGA hat and is pro-life meant that the media savaged him as a monster. With Wood's help, Sandmann is taking one media outlet after another to the cleaners.

The media are dumb enough that they forget that private citizens have the right not to be subject to slander, especially slander that puts them at risk. Sandmann suffered death threats; Rittenhouse has to hope to go before an impartial jury because his life and freedom are at stake. Wood will make them remember:

In addition to suing Facebook for being falsely accused of being mass murderer, Kyle Rittenhouse has defamation claim against Joe Biden for falsely accusing him of being white supremacist & militia member responsible for violence in Kenosha.



Candidate Biden = Defendant Biden. https://t.co/rTvA0UU6uN  Lin Wood (@LLinWood) September 30, 2020

Biden video identifies Kyle Rittenhouse as Wallace condemns white supremacists & militia members for adding to violence in Kenosha.



Biden has forgotten @N1ckSandmann & his lawsuits against CNN & WaPo.



I am going to remind him.@realDonaldTrump is not Bidens biggest problem. https://t.co/xnJ3o63yyF  Lin Wood (@LLinWood) September 30, 2020

This documentary prepared by Bernie Sanders supporter, was publicly available to Joe Biden & Biden/Harris Campaign PRIOR to publication of video falsely accusing Kyle.



Negligent & reckless publication & with actual malice.



See you in court, Joe.https://t.co/vVGg58iXIN  Lin Wood (@LLinWood) September 30, 2020

Formal demand for public retraction is being prepared for Biden/Harris Campaign on behalf of Kyle Rittenhouse.



I also hereby demand that @JoeBiden immediately retract his false accusation that Kyle is a white supremacist & militia member responsible for violence in Kenosha. pic.twitter.com/GrZyE8nI7Z  Lin Wood (@LLinWood) September 30, 2020

Biden/Harris Campaign & @JoeBiden only needed to spend 11 minutes to know their accusations against Kyle Rittenhouse were blatantly false PRIOR to publication of video falsely accusing Kyle.



See you in court, Joe. That is a promise. I keep my promises. https://t.co/ZWmr0Bvdoa  Lin Wood (@LLinWood) September 30, 2020

Biden/Harris Campaign & @JoeBiden only needed to spend 11 minutes to know their accusations against Kyle Rittenhouse were blatantly false PRIOR to publication of video falsely accusing Kyle.



See you in court, Joe. That is a promise. I keep my promises. https://t.co/ZWmr0Bvdoa  Lin Wood (@LLinWood) September 30, 2020

Busy day! Pleased to announce that @ToddMcMurtry & @RonColeman will be joining my legal team in pursuing libel case for Kyle Rittenhouse against Joe Biden & his campaign.



No need to turn up hearing aide, Joe. You can easily hear footsteps of army for justice coming to visit you.  Lin Wood (@LLinWood) September 30, 2020

We can only wish him the best of luck. If you want to help out, you can donate here. Using the legal system, it's time to hit back twice as hard.

Image: Kyle Rittenhouse's job is to help people. YouTube screen grab.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will have a bright future in the US because Americans are 'easy to please', a royal cousin has claimed.

Socialite Christina Oxenberg, 57, is the daughter of Princess Elizabeth of Yugoslavia, a second cousin of Prince Charles. She has recently made headlines by speaking out on her old acquaintance Ghislaine Maxwell.

Writing in Tatler, Christina, who was born in the US, said the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are celebrated by the American public, who are 'charmed' to have their own 'real life princess'.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will have a bright future in the US because Americans are 'easy to please', a royal cousin has claimed. Pictured, Harry and Meghan in Morocco last year

'Possibly too much is expected by the Brits from England's one-time most eligible bachelor and his actress wife,' she wrote.

'To be adored in America, all Harry and Meghan need to do is pick up a dog from a shelter. Americans are easy to please. What draws scorn in England will be applauded in the States.'

She added that the press coverage will be 'positive rather than petulant' and that American journalists are likely to treat the couple 'very well'.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have made a number of appearances since moving to California, where they are living in a Santa Barbara mansion.

Most recently Meghan spoke at the Fortune's Most Powerful Women summit, where she said she pays no mind to public 'flattery or criticism' about her and hit out at the media for 'misinterpreting' remarks she has made in order to make them sound more 'controversial' or 'inflammatory'.

Despite insisting that she does not focus on anything said or written about her, Meghan defended herself against past controversies, alleging that any time 'anything she has said... ends up being inflammatory', it only comes a result of 'people's interpretation of it'.

Socialite Christina Oxenberg, 57, is the daughter of Princess Elizabeth of Yugoslavia, a second cousin of Prince Charles. She has spoken about Harry and Meghan's future in the US

'If you listen to what I actually say, it's not controversial,' she added.

'I have already settled it for myself so flattery and criticism go down the same drain and I am quite free,' she quoted, while adding her own sentiments, claiming that she feels 'liberated' from opinions about her.

'And the moment you are able to be liberated from all these other opinions of what you know to be true, then I think its just very easy to just live with peace and live with authenticity,' she said. 'And that is how I choose to move through the world.'

The words are at odds with Meghan and Prince Harry's ongoing war against the media, which has seen the Duchess of Sussex repeatedly decry the 'toxicity' that she believes the couple has faced.

Earlier this year Christina made headlines when she spoke out in defence of scandal-hit Prince Andrew, who is also a cousin.

She said Andrew did not know he was being 'used' by Jeffrey Epstein and she hopes he will help investigators with their probe into the deceased American billionaire.

'He did idiotic things,' Ms Oxenberg said in an interview with Fox News. 'But he's not a paedophile. He's not a sex ring organizer.

'I'm sure he's filled with regret and remorse. He loves his family. He's duty-bound. He loves his mother and doesn't want to bring her grief.'
Credit: Wikimedia Commons

With the city of Louisville still reeling from a grand jury's recent findings about Breonna Taylor's shooting, the ongoing debate about the limits of excessive force continues to divide the nation.

But unlike in the past, when such stories were often quickly forgotten, the pervasive role of citizen video evidence and subsequent coverage by the press has transformed the public response.

"These tragic events are having an impact on the broader public," said Kevin Mullinix, assistant professor of political science at the University of Kansas. "Many people aren't just reading about them and moving on with their day. We're finding it's actually changing people's beliefs."

His new article, "The Feedback Effects of Controversial Police Use of Force," appears in the September edition of Political Behavior.

Co-written by Toby Bolsen, Georgia State University, and Robert Norris, George Mason University, the article finds that such actions against minority civilians increase support for body cameras, influence beliefs about excessive force and alter attitudes toward law enforcement.

Mullinix's team studied nearly 3,000 participants who were randomly assigned to receive (or not receive) a text-based news article, video or both involving a real-world case of police harming a minority civilian. One of these resulted in a non-lethal injury and the other in a death.

"You can find people who seemingly have complete confidence in police, but seeing these stories gets them to think, 'Maybe we do need body cameras,'" he said.

Mullinix, an expert in public opinion and public policy, was most surprised by how viewers reacted to the news articles compared to the videos.

"The text-based stories proved almost as powerful as the videos in a lot of circumstances," he said.

"Certainly, we observed stronger emotional responses to the videos. Reading a story might not make you quite as angry as watching the George Floyd videoyou can't help but have an emotional reaction when you see that. But the text-based stories proved almost as powerful as the videos in shifting attitudes toward police. This suggests that even text-based journalism can still be pretty potent."

Mullinix became interested in researching this topic after discussions arose with his students about the choking death of Eric Garner ("I can't breathe") and shooting of Walter Scott, an unarmed black man in South Carolina whose death was disputed when a video later surfaced contradicting the official police report.

"I talked about them in my classes, but I hadn't considered studying what their effects were for a few years," Mullinix said. "The most powerful for me was the Walter Scott tragedy. It was horrifying. It brought me to tears."

The professor explains the Taylor case specifically fits in with his research involving the consequences of a police killing.

"We find that reading news stories or watching the videos focused on police use of force lowers people's confidence that officers will receive the appropriate consequences. When there aren't criminal charges filed, I would only expect these types of beliefs to become even stronger," he said.

Mullinix notes that his team didn't undertake this research to destroy trust in law enforcement. Rather, he's hoping to understand the overall effects the events have on American society.

He also presumes the police want to see the results of his research.

"A lot of law enforcement are interested in these kinds of findings because they've been worried about a crisis of legitimacy for years," he said. "They know these stories are out there, and they're worried what they're doing for the public sentiment. What we're finding here substantiates their concerns."

This work piggybacks off Mullinix's previous studies focusing on wrongful convictions and racial disparities in the justice system and traffic stops.

"Across all of my research, I'm constantly trying to understand what types of information and communication impact people's attitudes and support for policy reform," he said. "This fits into my broader research of trying to figure out when persuasion does and does not occur."

While unjustified police shootings and subsequent protests to them are unlikely to be solved overnight, Mullinix hopes these tragedies prove a catalyst for evidence-based policy reform and legitimate change.

"This should definitely raise a serious discussion about policing. We should not just dismiss such events as outliers," he said. "Hopefully, it prompts real discussions about what kind of reforms we can implement to make sure these types of things don't happen anymore."

Explore further Most people don't change their views after seeing racial disparities in police statistics

More information: Kevin J. Mullinix et al. The Feedback Effects of Controversial Police Use of Force, Political Behavior (2020). Journal information: Political Behavior Kevin J. Mullinix et al. The Feedback Effects of Controversial Police Use of Force,(2020). DOI: 10.1007/s11109-020-09646-x
HISTORY

THE SECRET LIFE OF THE SAVOY

by Olivia Williams (Headline 20, 323pp)

The Savoy Hotel, situated in a court off the Strand where vehicles are required to drive on the right, opened in 1889 with great pomp and publicity.

For the century they ran it, the DOyly Carte family insisted upon the most careful attention to procuring everything of the very best quality.

The Savoy had acres of William Morris wallpaper and red carpets. There were hydraulic lifts, an emergency electricity plant and an artesian well-water supply.

The Savoy Hotel, situated in a court off the Strand where vehicles are required to drive on the right, opened in 1889 with great pomp and publicity

The DOyly Carte family ran The Savoy (pictured in more recent years) for a decade and insisted upon the most careful attention to procuring everything of the very best quality

The hotel ran its own chocolaterie, coffee roastery, printing press (for embossed menus) and bakery which produced 45,000 bread rolls a week.

This city in itself was the brainchild of Richard DOyly Carte, a theatre impresario whod made his fortune mounting the thrillingly popular Gilbert and Sullivan operettas.

He could easily afford the venture, as HMS Pinafore alone, when receipts from national and international tours were added, was generating profits of 22,000 a week in todays figures.

The idea was the Savoy should maintain its standards, regardless of cost  and it was a winning formula.

Thomas Dewar, the whisky heir, checked in and stayed for 40 years. Monet came and painted the view from an upstairs window. London would be quite ugly if it were not for the fog, he opined. Well, he was French.

Oscar Wilde ran up bills of 6,000 a week with Lord Alfred Bosie Douglas and when it came to his notorious trial, a Savoy chambermaid told the court in some detail about stained sheets.

The Savoy Hotel has played host to hundreds of some of the biggest celebrities and names in showbusiness, including Italian actress Sophia Loren and film direction Charlie Chaplin, pictured at a press conference at the prestigious hotel in 1965

This was unusual. Normally, Savoy staff were souls of discretion, resolutely unflappable. A record was kept of regular guests quirks, from preferred porridge temperature to mattress firmness.

Louis Armstrong was given a soundproofed room so he could practise his trumpet in bed. Mae West needed considerable wardrobe space, as she arrived for a short stay with 150 dresses and 60 pairs of shoes.

The DOyly Cartes wanted a world-class restaurant, serving mostly French food in hushed, wood-panelled rooms.

The first chef was Auguste Escoffier, the king of chefs and the chef of kings, who got through a metric ton of Normandy butter a week for his recipes. He was later sacked for taking kickbacks from suppliers.

In addition to Sophia Loren and Charlie Chaplin, world famous boxer Muhammad Ali also hosted a press conference at The Savoy to publicise his book 'The Greatest - My Own Story' in 1976

But it is the chefs comments about women cooks that startle us today. Ladies must not enter a kitchen, Escoffier stated, as they will distract the young men, they cannot lift a stock-pot, and at a certain time of the month, they will curdle the mayonnaise.

In the public areas, however, women were welcomed on their own, especially if their husbands were at their all-male Pall Mall clubs. The Savoy even sent meals to the suffragettes incarcerated in Holloway.

During the slump following World War I, the Savoy paradoxically thrived. Aristocrats who had abandoned and sold off their London mansions still needed a place to stay when in town.

THE SECRET LIFE OD THE SAVOY by Olivia Williams (Headline 20, 323pp)

The hotel was redecorated in Art-Deco style and saw many a jape by the Bright Young Things: artificial snow covered the restaurant at Christmas, a small plane landed in the foyer, a baby elephant greeted a maharaja, but real swans in the fountain died, poisoned by the chemicals added to the water to turn it a bright blue.

During World War II, Churchill was at the Savoy three times a week  holding cabinet meetings in the basement, meeting Roosevelt and De Gaulle, or drinking from a personal stash of port.

When a bomb blast blew the band-leader off the podium, everyone carried on eating and talking as though nothing had happened. Would not have missed this experience for anything, said Noel Coward proudly.

The legendary hotel is still afloat, now owned by a chain which numbers among its assets Ibis budget hotels. The lovely River Room is now a seafood bar. The Grill is a Gordon Ramsay franchise.

Id like to think, however, theres still no deep-freeze or microwave oven anywhere on the premises.
One of the beautiful truths for Christians is how Jesus lives in the midst of his people by his Holy Spirit. The indwelling Spirit guides and changes believers directly, not from a distance.

No intercessor is required, not even a priest. Christians are invited to confess their sins to God, to accept forgiveness from him, and to dialogue with the Father as they would with any human parent or friend.

What, then, is the purpose or profit of a statue? Is it alright to own a statue of Jesus, and if so, how should it be treated?

The Real Jesus

The most famous picture of Jesus in North America was produced in the 1940s by Warner E. Sallman. His white Jesus has inspired similar artistic imagery, including statues of a slender, blonde Savior.

Although this depiction had been inspired by a long tradition of European artists such as Rembrandt and Holman Hunt, against the backdrop of U.S. history, of European Christians colonizing indigenous lands with the blessing of the Doctrine of Discovery and enslaving African people, [...] a universal image of a white Jesus became problematic.

No one knows what Christ looked like, but we know that the typical statuary of Jesus does not represent him realistically. Very early images of a dark-skinned Christ have been usurped by the works of Sallman and others before him.

In recent years, however, scientists have imagined Christs likely features based on historical and scientific evidence derived from the Bible and external sources. Matthews description of the events in Gethsemane offers an obvious clue to the face of Jesus. It is clear that his features were typical of Galilean Semites of his era.

Richard Neave, a retired medical artist from the U.K., reconstructed the face of Christ using evidence from three well-preserved specimens from the time of Jesus. Neaves reconstruction portrays Jesus with dark skin and broad, heavy features.

Scriptural References to Idolatry

But even if artists renderings came closer to reality, Exodus 20:4 states, You shall not make for yourself a carved image or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above. Jews were not supposed to make such items and were certainly forbidden from worshiping them.

God made no distinction between imagery representing Baal or himself: Neither was to be creatively represented in the form of statuary. Do not make idols or set up carved images, or sacred pillars, or sculptured stones in your land so you may worship them. I am the LORD your God (Leviticus 26:1). Once more, God spoke against all idols, no matter whom they represented, although he was particularly concerned not to promote the worship of false gods.

In the Old Testament, one approached the throne of God via a holy priest, one appointed to the role, not through statues, which have mouths, but do not speak; eyes, but do not see [....] ears, but do not hear; noses, but do not smell. They have hands, but do not feel; feet, but do not walk (Psalm 115:5-7).

God does not wish for his people to worship these idols because those who make them become like them; so do all who trust in them. (Psalm 115:8) Worshiping something lifeless makes one lifeless also.

In 1 Samuel 4, Israel was at war with their enemies, the Philistines. Hard-pressed and fearing defeat, the elders rightly sensed they needed Gods help to win the battle. But they were wrong in the way they sought help, which was to bring the Ark of the Covenant to the battlefield in an act of superstitious trust. Instead of humbly repenting and seeking God, they turned to methods that God never approved. They only cared if it worked.

This was another form of idolatry and Gods response was decisive. The Philistines fought with the courage of desperate men, while the Israelites felt the battle would be easy with the Ark of the Covenant there and did not try as hard. Finally, the Lord did not bless Israels superstitious belief in the power of the ark instead of the power of God.

The New Testament reinforces Gods commandment against idolatry. Being then God's offspring, we ought not to think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by the art and imagination of man (Acts 17:29).

Comprehending the reality of God in us, with us, near us, is difficult, but we must not objectify him. Even precious stones are unable to equal the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord (Philippians 3:8). He is alive and personal.

Why Is This So Important?

God did not speak against artistry per se; he encourages us to use our gifts and talents for his glory. Yet, he is concerned when we use these talents to create images of worship: Why?

1. We must not put our faith in objects. There is the temptation to put faith in something rather than someone when tough times arise. If an inanimate object (statue, rosary, cross) gains power in the individuals mind, it replaces the real, living Christ:

As it turned out, God did not feel obligated to bless the Israelites just because they took the ark into battle. He wouldnt allow His arm to be twisted by the superstitions of the Israelites. God is a Person, not a genie to be summoned at the will of man.

2. Jesus spoke against religion. Usually, statuary is associated with religious observance and superstition. A routine is established in which one says certain things in a certain order at a particular time in order to satisfy God.

Christ preached, Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You shut the kingdom of heaven in men's faces. You yourselves do not enter, nor will you let those enter who are trying to (Matthew 23:13-14). He does not want mere observance from us; he wants our love, our trust, and our humility.

3. When we pray to statues, we want God to do something. If we think we can get what we want by doing the right things, we seek to manipulate God. But what if God does not answer our prayers the way we like?

Do we throw out our statue and our faith with it? There is a very real danger of imagining that statues of Jesus contain the power of Jesus and that when they fail us, God is not real or loving.

4. Jesus came for us all. Unfortunately, each culture wants to claim him as their own. This is not only the case for Europeans, and not restricted to race. Some groups have tried to depict Jesus as a woman. Scripture makes a point of saying very little about Christs appearance, but a great deal about his love, kindness, truthfulness, justice, and mercy.

We learn about the power and person of our resurrected Savior without ever knowing how tall he was or reading about the shape of his nose. Emphasis on appearance distracts from the spiritual reality of Christ, which is also our spiritual reality as believers.

5. The truth is better than we imagine. 1 Timothy 2:5 declares there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus. Christ is present and personal.

We do not need to address God through the intercession of a priest or a statue, whether it resembles the real Christ or not. Both of them are powerless. The resurrected Christ, however, has already defeated our greatest enemy: Sin.

What about Statues as Ornaments?

Maybe a statue said to resemble Christ is just an ornament. The individual in whose house it sits does not believe for a moment that Jesus looked like an Italian model. Maybe the peacefulness of his posture is pleasing, or the item is an heirloom.

What about a cross worn or around ones neck or a Jesus t-shirt? Do these offend God, even when they do not represent spiritual belief? Such items are often gifts, or they have been inherited from deceased relatives.

They make a fashion statement, or perhaps something about Jesus fits with ones belief in good vibes and world peace. Among some non-Christians, one will detect a desire to hedge ones bets as though to appease God if he is there.

Some Christians see the use of Christian symbols in home decor and fashion as an example of cultural appropriation, and one which deadens the true impact of the cross. Could it be that the empty cross, emblazoned with cheap crystals [...] could potentially cause us to forget that this is a symbol of intense agony and eternal love[?]

Martin Saunders muses in The Cross in fashion: Appropriation or opportunity? that this large scale piece of cultural appropriation resembles what Paul did by using Greek symbolism to explain the gospel at Athens. Since God can use everything for his purposes, including items meant to mock his Son, a bold Christian can easily seize any opportunity to ask, What do you believe?

The Real Focus

Not everyone agrees that graven images are harmless, but one cannot argue about their powerlessness and also say they possess a negative power. In themselves, statues of Christ along with other Christian symbols are meaningless. They represent the one we worship but should not inspire fear or hope in their own right.

The relevant image of Jesus is not visual but spiritual. For those who love him, every example of art supposedly depicting the Messiah provides another opportunity to challenge distortion with truth.

Photo Credit: Unsplash/topf52

Candice Lucey is a freelance writer from British Columbia, Canada, where she lives with her family. Find out more about her here.
BELLEVUE, Wash., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Core Scientific, the leading blockchain hosting provider in the United States, announced it has partnered with commercial lender Arctos Capital , who has provided an initial $1.8M in equipment lease financing for clients' purchase of new-generation Bitmain S19 Antminers that will be hosted in Core Scientific's facilities. This partnership establishes a new lease financing model for the mining industry and strengthens Core Scientific's position as a leader in the North American mining space.

North America has proven to be a desirable place for mining companies to operate due to its energy infrastructure, financial resources, and evolving regulatory clarity. As many countries compete to emerge as a leader in the mining space, North America continues to grow into a major hub for mining operations. The financing from Arctos Capital will provide more access to the ideal mining environment that exists in North America.

Kevin Turner, CEO of Core Scientific said, "This partnership is an important step for the mining industry, as it will enable more players to access new-generation miners and expand the mining ecosystem. We also see a lot of opportunities working alongside a company that is also looking to accelerate the mining industry in North America. I'm confident this will be a long term partnership."

Trevor Smyth, Managing Partner at Arctos Capital, commented: "Core Scientific has the proven ability to operate efficient facilities at scale for miners in North America. Our lease structures offer a straightforward and efficient way for miner's to access capital, and we feel safe knowing that the equipment we are financing is in good hands at Core's facilities. We look forward to growing the relationship and rapidly scaling in the coming months."

This partnership follows other major developments for Core Scientific including Core Scientific's recent partnership with investment manager Horizon Kinetics that expanded investment in next generation digital mining equipment, and Core Scientific's recent purchase of approximatel 18,000 digital mining machines from Bitmain.

For more information, please visit https://www.corescientific.com .

Core Scientific Senior Vice President of Blockchain Business Development Taras Kulyk and Arctos Capital Managing Partner Trevor Smyth are available for interview.

About Core Scientific:

Core Scientific is the leader in customizable infrastructure and software solutions for Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain. It recently purchased over 17,000 of the latest generation cryptocurrency miners from Bitmain on behalf of many customers including hedge funds and other financial services companies, making it the largest purchase of mining equipment by a single hosting company to date. Through its recently established partnership with Bitmain, Core Scientific has also launched the first Antminer Training Academy outside of China. This newly launched academy allows more North America-based participants access to Bitmain's miner maintenance training and accreditation service. Using state-of-the-art facilities, patent pending technology and best-in-class blockchain hosting solutions, Core Scientific is primed to power leading edge servers for large scale operations and the most complex deep learning AI challenges. To learn more, visit www.corescientific.com .

About Arctos Capital:

Arctos Capital is a technology-driven commercial lender that provides financing solutions to bitcoin holders, investors, and mining businesses. In addition to its lending operations, Arctos Capital manages a private fund that provides accredited investors access to non-correlated, high-yield credit opportunities.

SOURCE Core Scientific

Related Links

https://corescientific.com


Washington, Oct 1 : NASA is sponsoring a $5 million competition to find solutions for energy distribution, management, and storage that can be further developed for space flights and future operations on the lunar surface.

Solar energy is abundant on the surface of the Moon, but extended night hours - 350 consecutive hours -- and the extreme environmental temperature change from daylight to nighttime, create problems for solar power use.

As NASA works to extend human exploration of the solar system, unprecedented capacity for energy distribution, management, and storage will be needed to support sustained human presence and the beginning of industrial activity.

Earth also addresses similar issues, where demand for additional renewable energy generation, including solar, is rising, but additional power management, distribution, and energy storage solutions are needed to address issues such as intermittency and resiliency.

NASA said that its "Watts on the Moon" competition could help facilitate new power options on Earth too.

HeroX, spin off of the XPRIZE Foundation, is the administrator of the challenge.

NASA's goals for this challenge are twofold - to advance the technology for energy distribution, management, and storage for long term missions; and to engage with a broader community of energy and multidisciplinary experts for the advancement of space exploration.

A prize purse of up to $5 million will be awarded across two rounds of competition, HeroX said on its website.

Registration for Phase 1 opened on September 25. The winners of this phase will be announced on May 21 next year.
I never went through a One Direction phase. I was in high school when they were big, just a little too old for straightforward interest in a teen boy group. Yet, in April, as a single, queer, 25-year-old living with my parents, I became infatuated with Harry Styles, a person Id hardly considered pre-2020.

It is a classic pandemic love story: He kept popping up on my TikTok feed. I listened to his newest album. Suddenly, with little else to occupy myself, he was all I could think about.

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I listened to Harrys albums on loop, impulse purchased a Watermelon Sugar T, and fantasized about meeting IRL as soon as possible. I enjoyed all the saccharine hallmarks of a new relationship. I giggled. I got butterflies. I daydreamed while he gazed back from my phones lock screen. On a particularly stressful day, I even drew a bubble bath and watched the One Direction documentary. It started fun and lighthearted, my friend Brian recalls, and then you moved into posters-on-your-bedroom-wall territory. I was embarrassed by the velocity of it all. I wanted to know, as a science journalist, what on Earth was going on with me. Ive never had a celebrity crush half this size before. I started making phone calls to experts.

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Humans are social creatures. Of most value to us is to love and be loved, said Elie Aoun, a New Yorkbased psychiatrist who specializes in addiction. During quarantine, those of us isolating without a romantic or sexual partner lost the possibility of experiencing the intimacy we naturally crave. I was personally enduring weeks on end without seeing anyone my age, let alone a flesh-and-blood romantic interest. The way we address our need to be loved is to provide more and more love, Aoun explained. In the absence of true human connections, we start these predictably unsuccessful relationships. I am not quite willing to deem my relationship with Styles unsuccessful (yet!), but the rest of this makes sense given the loneliness I was going through in quarantine.

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At least in a modern pandemic we have good crush material to work with. Back during the 1918 flu, even the most famous people in America would have been harder to get to know from afar. Over the past decades, social media has laid out superdetailed human blueprints onto which we can project the romance and friendship we crave in times of social isolation. Opportunities for interactions with celebrities in the past were rare and carefully controlled by celebrities for publicity and promotion purposes, researchers noted on this subject in 2017. These new media environments have narrowed the distance between audiences and celebrities. Over the past six months, for example, Ive gotten regular glimpses into what appears to be Harrys pretty mundane life. He grew a mustache. He went on runs. He protested. That kind of exposure wouldnt even be possible with a cute next-door neighbor. Social media normalizes celebrities, Aoun said. It takes these people who were historically perceived as greater than life, and makes them feel accessible. It allows people to feel like, Yeah, maybe I have a shot. 

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Not only is he accessible, the Harry that lives in my head is, well, perfect. With himunlike with all the nonfamous people I care for and lovethere are no missed calls, no compromises, no squabbles or blowups. Hes never been in a bad mood after a long day of telework (not around me, at least). Plus he could never give me COVID-19. By being perpetually out of reach but always in sight, celebrities can comfortably grow in our minds into perfect prefab partners: reliable, predictable, nonthreatening said Gail Basch, a psychiatrist and director of addiction medicine at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. That person will never let you down, and there are no burdens and requests placed upon you. This is the beauty of a pandemic celebrity obsession. At a time when all you have to give is not much at all, its a form of love that requires of you only your imagination.

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Technically speaking, celebrity crushes are a kind of parasocial relationship, involving unrequited affection flowing from fans. But the dynamic isnt exactly one-sided: Celebrities actively encourage the loyalty and affection of their followers (understandably!). In one study, researchers found that the more a celebrity uses social media like Twitter conversationally, showcasing interactions with fans and other celebritiesrather than through obviously curated posts promoting upcoming projects, for examplethe more fans engaged with the posts, which in turn encouraged them to seek out more content. (Which is to say: Harry knew what he was doing this year when he narrated a romantic bedtime story for the Calm meditation app and released a very touchy-feely music video during quarantine!)

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Outside my circle of close friends, I was pretty embarrassed to be a part of a parasocial relationship. I didnt need to be, I realized, as I examined the research. While people who enjoy consuming celebrity culture have been pathologized, portrayed as miserable or lonely, and characterized as hopeless stans, researchers have concluded chronic loneliness, neuroticism, and low-esteem do not predict parasocial interaction. There is this stigma. We tend to think of real relationships as 100 percent wonderful and parasocial ones as messed up, which is not the case, said Fielding Graduate University social psychologist Karen Shackleford. Evolutionarily speaking, the celebrities we fall for are among the most high-value potential mates we could encounterphysically attractive, charming, powerful, and wealthy. Studies have shown that parasocial relationships with celebrities seen as ideal selves can have selfenhancing benefits for people with low-esteem. Fandom can also be a healthy and rejection-free way to safely rehearse social interactions and figure out what we want in a friend, lover, or even ourselves, Shackleford said. Maybe my own romantic daydreams have kept me in practice for the day I can safely flirt at bars again.

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Few of us, in fact, escape some version of the celebrity crush. In one study of young adults, 90 percent reported having had a strong attraction to a celebrity; 75 percent said they had several. While its too soon to confirm, quantitatively, that the pandemic has stoked celebrity crushes, it would make sense if even more people than usual were turning to them as a coping mechanism. It fills a purpose, especially now when things are unpredictable and uncertain, said Basch. It can be organizing and calming and soothing.

That is, until its not. By week seven or eight of my Harry fling, the bliss wore off. Id filled, even overflowed, all the time that Id once spent with friends or on datesor doing any activity that involved leaving homewith the crush. I had a hard time concentrating on work and couldnt keep myself from Googling questions about him or watching his YouTube interviews. I felt myself bringing him up too often in conversations with friends. It got bad enough that my mom groans when she hears Watermelon Sugar on the radio now. The crush left me feeling obsessive, and distracted, instead of energized. The purpose of daydreaming is to fantasize, Aoun said. But when it takes over your life, it becomes maladaptive.

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I started to wean myself off. I changed my phone background and limited how much I listened to his music. By the time I moved back to my apartment in Augustand, more importantly, into the company of friendsI no longer craved Harry with such intensity. Today, I feel like Im in the last stages of healing from a breakup. I havent heard the sound of his voice in weeks or checked his social media lately. I got a haircut and bought new shoes. Most importantly, Ive started going on dateswith people who are unpredictable, imperfect, and wonderfully real. I hope Harrys taking it OK.
Winnipeg city council has approved the contract for a hotly debated program that places police officers in schools.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 30/9/2020 (479 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Winnipeg city council has approved the contract for a hotly debated program that places police officers in schools.

Council voted 13 to three on Wednesday to extend the school resource officer program to 2023, which involves 19 officers working in six local school divisions.

Couns. Cindy Gilroy (Daniel McIntyre), Sherri Rollins (Fort Rouge-East Fort Garry) and Vivian Santos (Point Douglas) voted against the extension.

Several delegates had lobbied council to cancel the project, while others pushed for it to continue.

Opponents argued the officers presence in schools sparks fear in racialized students that can compromise their educational outcomes, allow them to be over-policed and make them feel less safe.

"The school system, when there is a police officer present, does not afford every child the same sense of safety and freedom to interact  As a mother of two young daughters who are women of colour, I am personally, deeply concerned about the presence of police officers within our schools," said Dorota Blumczynska, a member of the Police Accountability Coalition.

She urged council to reject the proposal, or at least delay the vote to allow for more community consultation.

By contrast, supporters urged council to approve the contract.

Brian OLeary, chairman of the Metro Superintendents Group, said the officers have built relationships that support students and ensured pupils can safely attend schools following online threats.

"This (program) is not something that any of our principals would ever want to give up," said OLeary.

Brian OLeary, chairman of the Metro Superintendents Group, says officers have built relationships that support students and ensured pupils can safely attend schools following online threats. (Mike Deal / Winnipeg Free Press)

Mayor Brian Bowman expressed his personal support for the program, while noting council doesnt dictate police operations.

"What I always appreciate seeing in our community is bridge-building  (for police) to have dialogue with people, I think, that helps break down barriers," said Bowman.

The mayor said the contract does require city approval, so the officers would be removed from schools if council had voted against the extension.

Some councillors werent convinced the program should continue.

Coun. Santos urged her colleagues to review and re-evaluate it.

She said she felt personally targeted by police and the media recently when she was denied the required security clearance to become a member of the Winnipeg Police Board.

"I was accosted by the media and the Winnipeg Police," said Santos.

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Santos noted anonymously leaked information to Global News sparked reports that she was denied the police clearance due to a friendship with someone accused of trafficking cocaine. Santos said shes since cut ties with that friend and didnt know about any alleged illegal activity at the time.

On Wednesday, Santos said shes spent most of her adult life in an "over-policed community" in the North End and alleged shes seen a pattern of extra law enforcement scrutiny of Indigenous Winnipeggers and people of colour.

In an emailed statement, the Winnipeg Police Service said its officials are listening to opponents of the program and will collaborate to ensure the program "serves the needs of all students, families, and staff."

"We believe police officers have a vital role to play in helping children succeed, and invite the community to engage with us in making that happen," the statement said.

Joyanne.pursaga@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @joyanne_pursaga
Brooklyn Beckham and fiancee Nicola Peltz put on a tender display when they were pictured leaving Nobu in Malibu on Wednesday after a romantic meal.

The two complemented one another's style in dark clothing as they prepared to head home, while holding hands with one another.

Their outing comes after Brooklyn, 21, was defended after being criticised for posted a now deleted Instagram photo in which he had his hand on Nicola's neck.

Tender: Brooklyn Beckham and fiancee Nicola Peltz held hands while leaving dinner at Nobu in Malibu on Wednesday... after he was defended over that choke drama

Brooklyn had stuck to a smart/casual dress code as he was pictured leaving the eatery wearing a dark jumper, smart indigo jeans and chunky boots.

Nicola, 25, wore a plunging black trouser suit and heels, with the couple both sporting black face masks.

Brooklyn has been defended by fans after he was slammed for playfully holding fiancee Nicola Peltz's neck on social media.

Chic: Nicola, 25, wore a plunging black trouser suit and heels, with the couple both sporting black face masks

The founder of KWRO Women's Rights Organisation, Diana Nammi, had said it was 'disgusting' to share online and believes it is a mistake to turn such a serious matter into a joke.

But others thought this was an overreaction given that Brooklyn deleted the snap as soon as the criticism came to light and his intention, even if misguided, was to be light-hearted.

One fan wrote: '@Diana Nammi and her rant against Brooklyn Beckham is why sometimes causes get lost in the sauce.

'Anybody with eyes could see there was nothing untoward': Brooklyn has been defended after being slammed for holding fiancee Nicola's throat in a now deleted post on Instagram

'Anybody with eyes could see there was nothing untoward about their pic but i guess "the sky is falling" for Diana...focus on actual domestic violence ma'am and not silly pics on IG.'

Others took to social media to send their 'love' to Brooklyn after the comments were made.

However, others defended the newly engaged couple. One commented: 'Love you guys'. A second typed: 'Adorable,' while another wrote 'couple goals.'

In the snap, posted earlier this week, David Beckham's eldest son, 21, flashed his tattooed arms as he held the actress, 25, by the neck while drinking wine at dinner

KWRO is a charity that campaigns against issues such as domestic violence, honour-based violence and forced marriage.

Opposing views: Fans showed their support for Brooklyn as both sides of the debate were discussed

Reacting to the picture of Brooklyn holding Nicola by the throat, which was posted by the Bates Motel star, Ms Nammi said: 'It is disgusting and I think with serious matters no one should allow themselves to make a joke.

'This is very important, an organisation like ours has seen so many women become victims of honour based violence, domestic violence, forced marriage - and they have been strangled by their own family and they have been killed by husbands, partners or boyfriends.

'So we are talking about real life, even if it's a joke it is disgusting in my opinion. I think it should be banned from Instagram this kind of picture. He is 21 so mature enough to know it is a very serious matter and I think he has to apologise openly and tell people that he made a huge mistake.

'We are talking about living people - it is not a doll to play with, so I think this is sending a very wrong message, a very dangerous message to young people especially.

Photos: In another image shared on Nicola's Instagram she held Brooklyn around his neck

'This kind of attitude is not acceptable and both men and women, especially women, need to be respected and their life needs to be celebrated.

'It is so dangerous and his position is so important and not only him but his family need to discuss it to say something in the media that they are not that approving of that, because of their position especially.

'In his position he should not do it at all and not even be thinking about that and I could not believe this kind of thing has happened. He is mature enough, he is not a baby playing with a doll.

'We are talking about an adult man talking about his girlfriend - and his girlfriend definitely must not accept that. I urge them to put a message of apology on Instagram and Twitter and everywhere on the media for their wrongdoing.

Close: The couple love to share loved-up pictures of themselves on social media

'People like us fighting on a daily basis, talking in schools, trying to educate people about the issues of domestic violence and how to have a healthy relationship.

'On a daily basis we are trying to bring these things to the school curriculum - for example healthy relationships need to be educated to people - but one message from an irresponsible like him gives a very big message to the whole world and this is so dangerous.

'I think he has to really learn how to treat women, he has to go to healthy relationship education courses and learn how to act as a responsible human being.'

MailOnline reached out to representatives for Brooklyn and Nicola for comment.

The photograph also caught the attention of Brooklyn's fans, some of whom were alarmed by the way he clutched her throat. Some warned it could normalise domestic and sexual violence to their combined Instagram following of more than 14million people.

Jaye Taylor said: 'Every girlfriend he has had there are photos of him holding them round the neck. Even when he puts his arm around them it's really tight and looks like a headlock.

'Really odd the way he's never pictured with any male friends just his gfs who he falls in love with in two mins and then holds them by the throats etc.'

Jordan Moral asked: 'Why is he choking you though?' Another user echoed Jordan, saying: 'Why is he choking you?'

Last week Nicola uploaded a black and white snap of her holding a topless Brooklyn by the throat while his face is covered in shaving cream.

She captioned the snap: 'i love you more everyday.' Brooklyn replied: 'I'm the luckiest boy in the world to have you by my side.'
(Natural News) Police in the UK are set to begin enforcing COVID lockdown rules by knocking on peoples doors to check they are self-isolating if they have been mandated to do so by the government.

(Article by Steve Watson republished from Summit.news)

The Daily Mail reports that the procedure will go into effect today, and will extend to anyone who has tested positive or come into contact with someone who has tested positive for the virus.

The government will use the National Health Service Test and Trace app, which has been download by more than 10 million Britons, to issue self-isolation orders to the public.

Police will also operate from tip-offs, according to the report. In other words, police will rely on snitch neighbours who report infractions.

Anyone found to be breaking the quarantine rules could be fined up to ten thousand pounds. Employers who obligate those affected to go to work could also be fined.

The UK Home Secretary Priti Patel announced Sunday that the government will not allow those who break the rules to reverse the hard-won progress made by the law-abiding majority.

The Government announced that it will use police resources to check compliance and that police will investigate and prosecute high-profile and egregious cases of non-compliance, as well as act on instances where third parties have identified others who have tested positive, but are not self-isolating.
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Linkedin Yu Liuqing (The Jakarta Post) Singapore  Thu, October 1, 2020 08:30 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4859766 3 Opinion import-substitutions,Import-substitution-industrialization,trade-barriers,industry,economy Free

In Indonesia, import substitution policies are showing signs of making a comeback. In recent years the country has appeared committed to outward-looking free-trade agreements. ASEAN countries, through the founding pacts of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), have secured significant tariff reductions across member states. Indonesia has also been among the more vocal supporters of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), a mega-regional trade agreement set to harmonize many existing trade agreements.

However, protectionist sentiment has never been far from the surface and it may be that the country sees such trade agreements primarily as ways to promote its exports. President Joko Jokowi Widodo has expressed concerns about Indonesia being a destination for exports from other ASEAN members once the AEC is finalized. The Indonesian government has also managed to retain many non-tariff barriers, despite its rhetoric.

According to the World Bank, 69 percent of goods imports to Indonesia are subjected to non-tariff measures, like pre-shipment inspection and traceability requirements, compared with 31.1 percent in Thailand and 38 percent in Vietnam.

Besides insulating parts of the domestic economy, Indonesian policy toward crossborder trade and investment is also influenced by structural factors. A persistent current-account deficit has been a longstanding concern for successive Indonesian governments owing to the volatility it can cause in the rupiahs value. A weak rupiah increases the cost of external debt repayment for the country.

The COVID-19 pandemic is further encouraging an inwardlooking tendency. In July this year the Industry Ministry outlined a target of reducing import reliance across a range of sectors, including machinery, chemicals, metals and electronics, with a goal of shifting 35 percent of current imports in such areas to domestic sources by 2022.

While the road map is still at the planning stage, it appears to be a more emphatic version of earlier self-sufficiency plans backed by the ministry, such as those targeting a higher share of domestic products in government procurement. The authorities hope that the drive will help increase utilization rates for domestic manufacturing and create more jobs for locals.

While the specifics are still being shaped, direct import limits and prohibition, more pre-shipment inspections and some port restrictions are likely to be imposed. The government is contemplating revamping national standards certification (known as the Indonesian National Standards or SNI) and applying them on more imports; reshaping a program aimed at increasing the use of domestic goods (known as P3DN); and increasing the most favored nation tariff on commodities.

The governments program can be attributed to several concerns. First, the additional safeguarding will help distressed state-owned enterprises (SOEs). Among the more notable of these is PT Krakatau Steel, a steel maker, which is dependent on government support and has been struggling to restructure its debt. The government has requested all import steels to be subjected to SNI starting from September, an initiative pushed by the firm. Alongside this, imports for capital-intensive goods in the electronics, machinery, and pharmaceutical sectors have drained Indonesias foreign exchange and widened the trade deficit.

Positive incentives for domestic entities operating in sectors where a large import dependency pertains are also likely. Indonesias largest goods imports in 2019 included machinery, electrical machinery, iron and steel, and plastics. Such areas will be an area of policy focus for the authorities as they seek to bolster levels of domestic production.

Prospects for import substitution will differ by sector. Reducing imports of machinery and other capital-intensive goods will be unlikely to succeed. Indonesia does not have a strong industrial foundation and lacks the domestic supply chain through which to produce higher-end capital goods. Insufficient intellectual property protection and weak research and development capacity make the production of indigenous advanced machinery a distant goal.

Consumer-facing industries stand a better chance of success, supported by proximity to a large and growing domestic market. Industries such as food and beverage and consumer goods manufacturing are likely to be recipients of government support, including tariff adjustments and subsidies.

Opportunities could extend to sectors such as automotive and consumer electronics manufacturing if Indonesia is able to make broader progress on improving its business environment and infrastructure.

Metals, plastics and the oil and gas sectors will be other sectoral considerations given the structure of Indonesias import demand. Domestic producers of aluminum, iron and steel will benefit from the revamped SNI requirement and a possible tariff hike on foreign metal.

Barring strong investment in exploration, it is difficult to envisage Indonesia arresting the decline in oil production that has led it to becoming a net importer of the fuel, but it will seek to refine a greater quantity of its domestic output within its own borders.

There will also be a desire to protect the trade surplus it maintains for natural gas, which could lead to tie ups with foreign investors.

The governments strategic work plan and the earlier Make in Indonesia 4.0 plan outlined some general support measures, including setting up vocational training facilities, improving infrastructure access, and enhancing credit support to priority industries.

However, few tangible support schemes are likely to be introduced, given the limited fiscal space. The policy focus will therefore be on strategic adjustments to the trade regime, including non-tariff barriers, and ongoing protection of SOEs.

Unlike China and India, Indonesias inward-looking policies are not guided by specific geopolitical concerns but are more an assessment of domestic economic interests. The country has few trade tensions with the United States or China, for example. The trade deficit with China is substantial, but Indonesian exports to China have increased substantially over the past few years.

While investors may therefore find themselves relatively insulated from geopolitical tensions in Indonesia, navigating domestic political interests remains challenging. As noted, SOEs retain a protected role in key segments of the economy, such as finance, metal processing and construction. Scrutiny will also be applied by the authorities to investments in sensitive primary sectors, such as mining and palm oil plantations.

***

Country analyst at The Economist Intelligence Unit. These views are personal.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the official stance of The Jakarta Post.
Tradespeople have warned applicants to the Government's new Green Home Grant scheme to be 'vigilant' after it was revealed applicants only have until 31 March 2021 to claim the money and have all improvements completed.

The Government has made available 600,000 vouchers for energy efficiency improvements to homes and has set aside a budget of 2billion that households can apply for from today.

The vouchers are worth up to 5,000 for a variety of energy efficiency and heating measures, such as insulation and double glazing, increasing to 10,000 for fuel poor homes.

However, applicants will only have six months between the Grant opening and shutting to have all improvements finished, frustrating both households and tradespeople who are often 'booked months ahead'.

The new Green Home Grant scheme is set to open for applications at the end of September

This means there may not be enough tradespeople to complete all improvement works around the country and as a result could attract cowboy traders instead.

Although households who have applied will only be offered a list of approved TrustMark and MCS registered tradespeople in their local area to carry out the work, trade firms have issued a warning to potential applicants to ensure they only hire reliable tradespeople.

Mike Fairman, chief executive of Checkatrade, said: 'We welcome this move from the Government to help bolster the trade economy through the promotion of energy saving home improvements and providing increased job opportunities throughout the winter months.

'However, we know that reputable tradespeople will often be booked many months ahead.

'Given the timeframe for redemption of the vouchers is 31 March, we share concerns with our tradespeople that this may not give homeowners enough time to benefit from the Grants and, likewise, our tradespeople enough of an opportunity to benefit from the Grant's use.'

How can I apply? To find out if you are eligible for funding under the Green Home Grants and how you can apply, click here.

Checkatrade added that over the past few months it has seen a huge increase in searches on its platform for sustainable construction projects, which suggests there will likely be a capacity challenge for many of our tradespeople.

Fairman added: 'We can understand why homeowners may be tempted to use a tradesperson who has immediate and ample availability, however this can sometimes be a sign of a rogue trade.

'We'd recommend homeowners continue to be vigilant when choosing someone to carry out any works.'

A further concern is that homeowner demand could outstrip supply, meaning that those who need the work done the most could miss out.

A new poll by the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit found that of the total respondents, including home owners and renters, a quarter are 'very interested' in the grant.

Rishi Sunak announced the Green Homes Grant in his mini-budget at the beginning of August

If only the 'very interested' participants take advantage of the scheme, this will total six million households, which is 10 times over what is currently on offer.

Adrienne Minster, chief executive of Rated People, a directory of tradespeople, said: 'While we welcome the grant, there's a risk that homeowner demand will outstrip tradespeople's capacity to do the work in six months, so it's important that we plan for that.

'We hope that the Government will keep an eye on demand for the grant and reassess the length of time that it's available for, if we start to find that not enough people can make use of it.'

Separate research from the Energy Helpline also found that less than half of the least well-off homeowners know about the scheme.

Tom Lyon, director of energy at Energy Helpline, said: 'Months after the scheme was announced, it's concerning to see that only 45 per cent of the poorest homeowners are unaware of the grants available.

'These households are often the most in need of energy and cost-efficient homes.

'Now that Government has opened the scheme for applications, to help make it a success, they must invest in further promoting it, so households can make use of the grants available.'

Trade firms have warned potential applicants to ensure they only hire reliable tradespeople

Key questions about the scheme This is Money contacted the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy and asked them the below. - Do the Government not think this is too short a time for 600,000 works to take place across the country? The Green Homes Grant scheme will be time-limited to help stimulate the economic recovery and support and create tens of thousands of green jobs immediately. - Is it not worried this will attract cowboys rushing to get the job done quicker due to the strict time limit? The Green Homes Grant has been designed with the highest standards and consumer protection measures at its heart. All installers must be TrustMark registered, as well as MCS certified for heat and PAS certified for energy efficiency. That means they will have been thoroughly vetted for technical competence, customer service and trading practices, and will be operating in accordance with the TrustMark customer charter, and MCS and PAS industry standards. The terms and conditions will also mandate that installers provide a guarantee for major measures, so if the work isnt up to scratch or fails within the agreed time frame then the company must put it right. - How will this work if the Government changes the guidelines again for households not to mix and builders cannot enter a property? Or will they be exempt? If this is the case, will the vouchers be extended? Installers must follow government guidance on Construction and other outdoor work and Working in other people's homes and any other relevant COVID-19 guidance when undertaking installations. - Will there even be enough tradespeople to complete all the changes? We are confident that enough installers will have the required registration and certification ensuring consumers have enough choice of companies in their local areas to choose from. We are working very closely with TrustMark, MCS and PAS certification organisations to ensure the supply chain is ready to support and benefit from this scheme. A BEIS spokesperson said: 'The Green Homes Grant will give the economy an immediate boost by supporting tens of thousands of jobs to make over 600,000 homes warmer and cheaper to heat in just six months. 'We have worked with industry to ensure there are enough installers ready to deliver the scheme in a way that work is completed to the highest standards and upholds the UK's world leading consumer protections.'

Watch out for scammers too

Another fear is that scammers are likely to be prevalent at this time, trying to cash in on the deadline, promising they can deliver improvements for a low price.

Victims of fraud could receive calls claiming they are builders looking to complete work and ask households to pay a fee upfront.

This was seen in 2014 when the Government ran its Green Deal to cover insulation work with scammers coming up with a host of ways to con people out of their cash.

Fraud prevention service Cifas says it has already heard of a surge of calls from fraudsters telling homeowners they're eligible for the grants.

However, households looking to apply should only do so through the official Government website.

Questions over Government calculator A Government endorsed calculator from Simply Energy Advice has raised questions about how accurately it predicts the cost of improvements - and how much it can actually save households. For example, it recommended the following recommendations for a three bedroom house below, which is an estimated energy band D - which is the middle efficiency rating. It claimed having floor insulation would cost 5,000 but this would only provide savings of 10 to 15 a year. Thus, it would take 400 years for the floor insulation to pay for itself. Up to two thirds of this cost could be covered by the scheme. Furthermore, it would take 160 years for new windows to pay for itself and 173 years for a condensing gas boiler. This will obviously raise questions for those applying as to whether the Grant is actually worth applying for. The calculator predicts how much investment is required & how much it can save people

A further issue is that, as many of the works will likely have to be undertaken in the winter time, when the weather is at its worst, this means the elements could affect progress.

With the coronavirus pandemic reemerging and a number of local lockdowns already in place, there is also concern that if work is commissioned, or even started, it may have to be shut down midway through.

If improvements in a home are underway, but a lockdown is then introduced and tradespeople are unable to enter the property anymore, this could leave people with unsafe homes.

It also raises the question, that if work is halted near the deadline of 31 March, will it be extended or do households then have to foot the rest of the bill?

Experts believe, however, that the six month deadline is just a trial period and hope the Government chooses to extend the scheme for a further six months, at minimum.

Jess Ralston, analyst at the ECIU, said: 'Whilst the deadline is short at the moment, high demand paves the way for the Government to build on the success of the scheme and perhaps roll it out on a larger scale afterwards.

'This will help put money back into the wallets of these installers, as well as families that take advantage of the scheme and save money on their energy bills, whilst delivering on the promises of 'levelling-up'.

'It delivers support for construction sector, skilled jobs at a time when this is really needed.'

The National Insulation Association is also calling for it to be treated as a six month pilot for longer term spending on energy efficiency.

This would be in line with the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Committee's recommendations for a wider programme on energy efficiency and low carbon heating.
President Donald Trump and Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden participate in the first presidential debate at the Health Education Campus of Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, on Sept. 29, 2020. (Win McNamee-Scott Olson/Getty Images)

Go Lincoln-Douglas: Eliminate Moderators From Presidential Debates

Commentary

The tenor of the Sept. 29 presidential debate between President Donald Trump and Democratic nominee Joe Biden has created the predictable uproar.

Some felt Trump was rude and loutish. Others thought he was ganged up on two against one, with Foxs Chris Wallace not even pretending to be a neutral moderator.

Yet again, if you were to believe the mainstream media, the barbarian president has finally destroyed himself, his electoral prospects now somewhere between hopeless and non-existent.

Strangely, however, post-debate polling on C-SPAN and Spanish-language Telemundo showed their viewers, by close to 2-to-1, thought Trump had won the debate.

Uh-oh.

But have no fear. The good folks at The Commission on Presidential Debate are coming to the rescue.

From our friends at The New York Times:

The Commission on Presidential Debates said on Wednesday that it would adjust the format of this years remaining matchups in the wake of Tuesday nights melee in Cleveland, where frequent interruptions from President Trump led to a chaotic and often incoherent event.

Several changes are under consideration, including new limits on speaking times that would replace an open discussion portion of the debate where candidates have traditionally been encouraged to freely engage, according to two people with knowledge of the commissions discussions on Wednesday.

Ah, those ubiquitous two people with knowledge of the commissions discussionswhere have we heard that before?

But never mind. Lets assume for once that the NY Times has it right and give them the Pulitzer for Best Reporting/Debate Commissions. (Theyll win it anyway.) We will shortly have a new set of rules that are undoubtedly more stringent and keep The Donald in check.

I have a totally different suggestion.

Lets completely eliminate moderators from presidential debates, all of them, not just Chris Wallace, although Im almost certain the vast majority of Fox viewers would be delighted to see him go altogether.

Presidential debates should be conducted in the time-honored Lincoln-Douglas style, just the two candidates by themselves on stage.

For those who dont remember or attended our schools when such things were no longer taught, Wikipedia says:

The LincolnDouglas debates (also known as The Great Debates of 1858) were a series of seven debates between Abraham Lincoln, the Republican Party candidate for the United States Senate from Illinois, and incumbent Senator Stephen Douglas, the Democratic Party candidate.  The debates previewed the issues that Lincoln later faced after his victory in the 1860 presidential election.

Lincoln was something of a sensation in those debates, which led to his national recognition and the presidency.

These mano-a-mano matchups sans moderator or moderators offer a much more direct view of the ideas of the candidates without the intervention of referees who have biases of their own.

Moderators, even those who seem or claim to be the most evenhanded, pick sides on one level or another. We all do. We can do without them.

Lincoln-Douglas-style debates are simpler to conduct and are the opposite of the rules-driven approach taken by the Commission. The candidates can make their own rules as they go.

For example, if the subject of that days debate is foreign policy, one candidate need only say Youre changing the subject when his opponent veers off into domestic issuesor he can join him in discussing the subject, if he so wishes.

If one of the candidates is monopolizing the discussion or using cheap insults such as racist or clown, the other can say so.

The audience is intelligent enough to see what is happening, draw their own conclusions, and respond accordingly at the ballot box.

I know the Lincoln-Douglas style is unlikely to be adopted for our current presidential debates. The media, worried how Biden might do by himself, would abhor it, as would the candidates handlers themselves, not to mention the Commission that would be rendered powerless by such an approach.

Nevertheless, someday in the future, we may return to this technique from our mid-19th-century past. We would be the better for it.

Roger L. Simon is an award-winning author, Oscar-nominated screenwriter, co-founder of PJ Media, and now, a columnist for The Epoch Times. Find him on Parler and Twitter @rogerlsimon. Buy (and enjoy) his books on Amazon.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
California has become the first state in the country to adopt a law to study and develop proposals for potential reparations to descendants of slaves.

Gavin Newsom, governor of California, on Wednesday signed a bill which would establish a task force to look into the issue. The task force must hold its first meeting by June 2021.

Newsom said the discussion was necessary, and 'long overdue'.

'Advancing this cause where it's not just a question on a questionnaire for a candidate running for office but actually taking shape here, that's a meaningful moment,' he said before signing the bill.

'This conversation is so long overdue.'

Gavin Newsom, the governor of California, signed the bill creating the task force Wednesday

A little girl is seen outside a reparations protest in New York City

Assembly Bill 3121 mandates the formation of a nine-person panel, appointed by the governor and legislative leaders.

The task force will conduct a sweeping examination of slavery in California and the United States, and explore the lasting consequences of discrimination against freed slaves and their descendants.

The members are believed to look at how slavery has benefited private and public institutions, and contributed to the problems facing modern America - lasting disparities related to wealth, education, employment, health and incarceration.

The law does not explore how reparations should be paid, or dictate how the state should determine who would qualify for compensation. Those questions remain up to the task force to study and recommend.

In order for the task force's recommendations to be acted upon, the Legislature would need to pass another bill to approve reparation payments.

Four million African people and their descendants were enslaved in the United States from 1619 to 1865, the bill states, and the practice was constitutionally approved for more than 75 years.

Slavery was abolished by the 13th Amendment in 1865.

'California has come to terms with many of its issues, but it has yet to come to terms with its role in slavery,' said Assemblywoman Shirley Weber, a Democrat who authored the bill.

'We're talking about really addressing the issues of justice and fairness in this country that we have to address.'

Shirley Weber (pictured), who introduced the bill, said it was about 'justice and fairness'

Protesters calling for reparations are pictured in New York City in 2002

Southerners brought slaves to California in 1848 to work in the gold mines during the gold rush.

In 1849, when California adopted its constitution and sought entry into the United States, slavery was officially banned.

Yet, to appease the South, they agreed that escaped slaves should be returned to their owners.

Discrimination also persisted long after 1865.

Los Angeles, in particular, was deeply segregated into the 1970s, and last year the Sausalito Marin City School District received the state's first desegregation order in 50 years.

The issue of reparations gained national attention last year when several Democratic primary candidates endorsed reparations.

Some Democrats want a commission to look into reparations, but the bill that would do this - H.R. 40 - has been on the table for decades and never garnered broad support.

Joe Biden has said he supports a study, and the national bill has more backing than ever, but not among Republicans, whose vote it would need to pass the Senate.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell says reparations are a bad idea because 'none of us currently living are responsible' for slavery.

Four million African people and their descendants were enslaved in the U.S. from 1619 to 1865

Protesters in Denver in June raise up a sign reading: 'Give us our harvest'

Lawmakers in at least five states have introduced their own legislation to explore the issue.

'Some of the political actors do believe that they have a better chance of passing these bills in the midst of the current wave of protests,' said William Darity, a professor at Duke University who co-authored a book on reparations.

Small-scale initiatives are admirable, but anything less than a national effort will be insufficient to close the racial wealth gap, said Darity.

The average black household has a net wealth $800,000 lower than the average white household, he estimates.

'The states and the localities, they just don't have the capacity to meet that task,' said Darity, who suggests giving each of the roughly 40 million black Americans descended from slaves up to $250,000 in a trust.

'It's the federal government that should be the culpable party because it created the legal and the authority framework that permitted all of these atrocities to take place,' he added.

Globally, there are precedents.

Germany paid millions to Holocaust survivors and South Africa compensated apartheid victims.

Family members of disappeared Colombians, rape survivors, and those displaced in the country's armed conflict have been compensated since 2011.

In response to protests over racial inequality, the top United Nations official for human rights called on countries to make amends for racist violence through reparations.

'There's no amount of money that can be paid, really, to fully repair,' said Arif Ali, a lawyer who was part of a U.N. team on compensation for victims of Iraq's 1990 invasion of Kuwait.

Ali said that under international law, the United States was obliged to pay - it is now just a matter of working out how.

'The experience of other countries is a reference point,' he said. 'Where there's a will, there's a way.'
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 00:19:00|Editor: huaxia

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TAIPEI, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- Taiwan confirmed a new COVID-19 case on Wednesday, taking its total number of cases to 514, according to the island's epidemic monitoring agency.

The new patient, a French man in his 50s, arrived in Taiwan on Sept. 11 and showed no symptoms of the virus, the agency said in a press release.

His employer requested that he take a COVID-19 test on Sept. 28, and the result came back positive two days later, the statement said.

Among the confirmed cases in Taiwan, 483 have recovered, with seven deaths and 24 still in hospital.

The agency also said that it was informed by the Chinese mainland recently that a Taiwan resident had tested positive for the virus in Xiamen city, in Fujian Province, shortly after flying in from Taiwan.

The man in his 50s returned from Xiamen to Taiwan on Aug. 19 and left for Xiamen again on Sept. 21. He took several COVID-19 tests in the following days, and the test on Sept. 26 showed that he had contracted the virus, the agency said.

He had shown no suspicious symptoms during his stay in Taiwan, the agency said, adding that it has started an investigation into the case and identified 33 people who had contact with him. Enditem
JUPITER, Fla., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Jupiter Orphan Therapeutics, Inc. announced today that its flagship JOTROLTM resveratrol delivery system has been granted patent No. 10780056 by the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office, in addition to its European patents, issued earlier this year.

The U.S. patent covers the suspension of active ingredient resveratrol and other compounds in a micellar emulsion that can be delivered via oral capsule. In this form, a daily dose of JOTROLTM can deliver the equivalent resveratrol dose of approximately 50 standard bottles of red wine, minus wine's alcohol, and its side-effects.

"This delivery platform allows resveratrol's potential as a treatment for neurodegenerative and other conditions to be fully analyzed and understood," said Christer Rosen, Chairman and CEO of Jupiter Orphan Therapeutics, Inc.

Initial data indicate the JOTROLTM formulation renders resveratrol more bioavailable in the blood and central nervous system. The formulation also appears to avoid some gastrointestinal issues seen in clinical resveratrol clinical studies.

The JOTROLTM formulation has been advanced by Jupiter Orphan Therapeutics, Inc., a clinical-stage drug platform company headquartered in Jupiter, Florida that is focused on neurological and rare diseases, in partnership with Aquanova AG of Darmstadt, Germany, the patent holder. Scientists at the University of Miami, MIT and Georgetown University have also consulted on its development. Jupiter Orphan Therapeutics, Inc. holds the global rights to this intellectual property through an agreement with Aquanova AG.

Earlier this month, the National Institutes of Health awarded Jupiter Orphan Therapeutics $1.7 million to support a Phase I clinical study of JOTROLTM for treatment of early-stage Alzheimer's disease. JOTROLTM is also currently undergoing evaluation for the treatment of Friedreich's ataxia and mucopolysaccharidosis type-I, says Marshall Hayward, Ph.D., Chief Scientific Officer of Jupiter Orphan Therapeutics, and co-inventor of the approved patent.

Resveratrol is a plant compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Found in grape skins, red wine, peanuts, berries and other plants, many studies have shown its apparent benefits for improving markers of brain inflammation and oxidative stress. Studies have also shown it can improve the efficiency of cells' energy organelles, called mitochondria. Damage to mitochondria is seen in Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases. Resveratrol also appears to have anti-aging properties similar to caloric-restriction-associated metabolism regulators called sirtuins.

Because it possesses such diverse mechanisms of action, it may have many eventual indications, Rosen said.

For more information about Jupiter Orphan Therapeutics and JOTROLTM, visit www.jupiterorphan.com.

Company contact:

Christer Rosen, Chairman and CEO

[email protected]

+1 561 308-7780

SOURCE Jupiter Orphan Therapeutics, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.jupiterorphan.com


Video reports posted on social media last month describing young women in northwestern Chinas Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR) being sent to work in factories under harsh conditions after their release from detention camps have been verified as accurate by RFAs Uyghur Service.

The video reports, filmed in secret inside China and uploaded to YouTube by Miradil Hesen, a resident of Xinjiangs Aksu prefecture, highlight abusive labor practices amid growing evidence that internment camps in the XUAR have increasingly transitioned from political indoctrination to forced labor, with detainees being sent to work in cotton and textile factories.

In his videos, Hesen gave detailed accounts of young women and other ethnic Uyghurs from the prefectures Uchturpan county who are being forced to work at a local textile mill 12 hours a day, with only one day free each month.

Rooms for workers are provided, but workers must provide their own food, said Hesen, now under arrest in eastern Chinas Jiangsu province after being sought by police for downloading Instagram onto his mobile phone and for publishing videos criticizing China over rights abuses.

Salaries drawn by forced laborers in Aksu, who earn only 1,500 yuan per month (U.S. $220.77) are not enough on which to live, and deductions of from 40 to 50 yuan (U.S. $5.89-7.36) are removed from workers pay for time taken off for reasons not normally allowed, Hesen said.

Hesens accounts in the videos were verified by RFA through telephone interviews in the region.

Unspecified offenses

Hanzohra Seyidehmet and Arzugul Semettwo young women from Uchturpan recently held in internment camps for unspecified offenses under restrictive Chinese lawsare now among those sent to work in Aksus Huafu textile factory, according to a local source.

They were allowed to visit with their families for only a day before being sent off to work, a police officer in Uchturpans Village No. 6 told RFAs Uyghur Service in an interview this week, adding that neither woman is working under sentence after being convicted of a crime.

They were at school. Then they were back at home for a day, and then they were taken to the factory, the officer said, speaking on condition of anonymity, and possibly referring to their time spent in the camps or to a period of job training required for them to do their work.



Hanzohra, aged around 23, had previously been apprenticed in Ghulja city in the Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture to learn food production, and something had happened after her return home, leading to her confinement in the camps, the officer said.



Arzugul, in her early 20s, had been a tailor. But someone borrowed her telephone and sent a [politically sensitive] text to someone else, causing her to be locked up too, he said.



Asked about their salary at the textile factory and how long they would have to work there, the source said he didnt know.

In videos posted to YouTube between Sept. 2-4 that were briefly accessible to Uyghurs inside China, Hesen slammed the authorities for abuses of his mother, who he said was forced to undergo sterilization that he claimed led to uterine cancer, and gave accounts of forced labor and other abuses in the XUAR.

RFA was able to verify the arrest and some life details of Hesen, who in his videos described himself as the founder of the Freedom Movement of Uyghurstan and noted that it is rare for members of his ethnic group to be able to air grievances about the persecution they face in the XUAR under Beijings policies.

Heightened scrutiny of the camps

The latest of several cases of forced labor confirmed by RFA follow a year of heightened U.S. scrutiny of Beijings sprawling network of camps in the XUAR, where authorities are believed to have held up to 1.8 million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities since April 2017.



On Wednesday, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Uyghur Forced Labor Disclosure Act, which the requires U.S. publicly listed companies to audit supply chains for forced labor. It also directs the Securities and Exchange Commission to require publicly traded companies to disclose imports of manufactured goods and materials derived from forced labor in the XUAR.

"The bill illustrates that effectively combating Uyghur forced labor will inevitably require genuine engagement from American companies. If the companies themselves refuse to act, it's up to our government to compel them to do so. said Uyghur Human Rights Project Executive Director Omer Kanat in Washington.

That new legislation follows the passage Sept. 22 of the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, which requires the Secretary of State to determine if imposing forced labor on Uyghurs and other Muslim Turkic groups constitutes crimes against humanity or genocide under U.S. law.

Washington is also taking customs inspection measures to block imports of suspect goods and to sanction and hold to account Chinese officials responsible for human rights violations in the XUAR. The U.S. has warned U.S. firms to ensure supply chains in China do not involve forced labor.

Reported by Shohret Hoshur for RFAs Uyghur Service. Translated by the Uyghur Service. Written in English by Richard Finney.
Asian shares were mixed Friday in thin holiday trading, with markets in South Korea, Shanghai and Hong Kong closed.

The Nikkei 225 index shed strong early gains to edge 0.1% higher, to 23,211.35, as the Tokyo Stock Exchange resumed trading after an all day outage Thursday due to a technical failure.

Reports that the Japanese government is preparing new stimulus measures to help the economy recover from a prolonged downturn worsened by the coronavirus pandemic provided only a temporary lift.

Australias benchmark S&P/ASX 200 slipped 0.8% to 5,85.80 after the release of discouraging retail sales data. Shares in Singapore and Indonesia also fell.

On Wall Street, stocks closed higher after pinballing through another shaky day of trading, as investors wait to see if Washington can get past its partisanship to deliver another economic rescue package.

The S&P 500 ended the day 0.5% higher, at 3,380.80, but it careened from an early 1% gain to a slight loss before arriving there.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.1% to 27,816.90 after earlier bouncing between a gain of 259 points and a loss of 112. The Nasdaq composite rose 1.4%, to 11,326.51 as big tech-oriented stocks propped up the market, much as they have through the pandemic.

Such big swings have become typical recently, as investors handicap the chances of a deal on Capitol Hill to send more cash to Americans, restore jobless benefits for laid-off workers and deliver assistance to airlines and other industries hit particularly hard by the pandemic.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin continued their talks on Thursday, but no breakthrough arrived before stock trading ended on Wall Street. Instead, there were only hopes that were periodically raised and dashed as government officials took turns criticizing each other.

Things remain fluid; we all know what is at stake if this deal does not go through before markets sundown, it is unlikely to be pretty ugly, Stephen Innes of Axi said in a commentary.

Data reports released in the morning painted a mixed picture on the economy, further roiling the mood.

One indicated the pace of layoffs across the country may have slowed last week, with the number of workers filing for unemployment benefits falling to 837,000 from 873,000. Its a larger decline than economists expected, though the number remains incredibly high compared with before the pandemic.

Were certainly expecting the employment situation to slowly improve, Wren said. Things seem to be moving in the right direction.

Consumer spending also strengthened by more than expected in August, which is key because its the main driver of the U.S. economy. But other reports were more discouraging. Personal incomes weakened by more than expected last month, and growth in the countrys manufacturing sector also fell short of forecasts.

Other warning signs are looming for the economy, which has seen some slowdowns recently after the last round of stimulus approved by Congress expired. The Walt Disney Co. and other major companies have announced even more layoffs this week, and the clock is ticking on Washington to offer more support.

The CEO of American Airlines said that it would reverse the furloughs of 19,000 workers if Washington can reach a deal with $25 billion for airlines over the next few days. United Airlines told government leaders that it could also undo the furloughs of 13,000 workers.

United Airlines stock gained 1.2%, and American Airlines shares rose 2.4%, but only after a turbulent day of ups and downs.

Continued strength for Big Tech stocks helped to lift the market. Amazon, Microsoft, Apple, Netflix, Facebook and Googles parent company alone accounted for the bulk of the S&P 500s gain.

Investors say another round of economic aid from Congress is crucial given the slowdowns already seen. Mnuchin and Pelosi have worked effectively together in the past, and they helped drive through the previous economic rescue approved by Congress in March. But the countrys partisan divide has only deepened since then, which has stymied progress. The next election is only about a month away.

The yield on the 10-year Treasury rose to 0.68% from 0.67% late Thursday.

In other trading, U.S. benchmark crude lost 43 cents to $38.29 per barrel in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange. It gave up $1.50 to $38.72 on Thursday. Brent crude, the international standard, lost 45 cents to $40.48 per barrel.

The dollar strengthened to 105.59 Japanese yen from 105.54 yen. The euro weakened to $1.1730 from $1.1747.
TAINAN, Taiwan  The United States and China are wrestling to lead the world in artificial intelligence, 5G wireless and other cutting-edge technologies. But the real wizardry that makes those advancements possible is being performed on a yam-shaped island that sits between them, geographically and politically.

On Taiwans southern rim, inside an arena-size facility stretched out among lush greenery and coconut palms, colossal machines are manipulating matter at unimaginably tiny scale. A powerful laser vaporizes droplets of molten tin, causing them to emit ultraviolet light. Mirrors focus the light into a beam, which draws features into a silicon wafer with the precision, as one researcher put it, equivalent to shooting an arrow from Earth to hit an apple placed on the moon.

The high-performance computer chips that emerge from this process go into the brains of the latest tech products from both sides of the Pacific. Or at least they did until last month, when the Trump administration effectively forced leading chip makers in Taiwan  and elsewhere  to stop taking orders from Chinas proudest tech champion, the 5G giant Huawei.

The administrations stranglehold on Huawei shows that for all of Chinas economic progress, the United States still has final say over the technologies without which the modern world could not run. Chip making relies on American tools and know-how, which gives officials in Washington the power of life and death over semiconductor buyers and suppliers anywhere on the planet.
GAINESVILLE, Fla., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention is proud to announce the 2020 First Place Cade Prize Winner  Nutrivert for its Nutrivert Antibiotic Replacement. Congratulations to added Cade Prize Winners: Second Place Winner  Redhill Scientific for its Thin Film Plasma Reactors, Third Place Winner  Adaptive Neural Systems Laboratory for its Neural-Enabled Prosthetic Hand System, Fourth Place Winner  Covanos for its C-HEART, and Fifth Place Winner  Structured Monitoring Products for its VetGuardian.

These five Cade Prize Winners share $50,000 in Prizes and each winner also receives $2,000 of in-kind legal services.

"We were inspired by the high-caliber of innovative Cade Prize submissions. It is thrilling to see such important innovation happening throughout the region, and we are honored to identify and celebrate innovation with the Cade Prize," said Richard Miles, co-founder of the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention. "We want to thank our esteemed panel of judges from Alabama, Florida and Georgia," Miles added.

The Cade Prize Awards Ceremony was hosted virtually on September 30th from the Cade Museum in Gainesville, Florida. The featured speaker was Chad Corbitt whose Tutor Matching Service won the inaugural Cade Prize over a decade ago, and is now in 500+ schools in 10 countries and enjoys a newly signed partnership with Amazon.

This year, the Cade Prize was expanded beyond Florida to also include Alabama and Georgia. The five Cade Prize winners were selected from 21 Fibonacci* Finalists, comprised of entries from independent groups and research universities throughout Alabama, Florida, and Georgia.

Alabama Fibonacci Finalists (in alphabetical order) were:

Company Name Innovation/Invention AI Metrics LLC AI Metrics MADE Health and Fitness LLC My MADE App Nutrivert Nutrivert OncoSpherix Small molecule dual HIF 1 and 2 inhibitors







Florida Fibonacci Finalists (in alphabetical order) were

Company Name Innovation/Invention Adaptive Neural Systems Laboratory Neural-Enabled Prosthetic Hand System Agriculture Intelligence Agroview Aviana Molecular Technologies, LLC Digital Biosensing Platform with Artificial Intelligence BIUWAVE LLC Hybrid Biometic Underwater Vehicle



Cognosetta, Inc. CS0022-class compounds for the treatment of tinnitus Connected Wise LLC Smart Vision V2X System Engineering Technologies, LLC The Platypus Lightguard Lightguard MARVLOUS Multimedia Augmented Reality Vocabulary Learning (MARVL) application Nhu Energy Advanced Systems for Clean Energy Transformation (ASCEnT) PQSecure Tech Suite-Q Redhill Scientific Thin Film Plasma Reactors Stentiford Safety Services Sten Step Structured Monitoring Products VetGuardian

Georgia Fibonacci Finalists (in alphabetical order) were:

Company Name Innovation/Invention COMB COMB Covanos C-HEART Precision MedCare, LLC Noninvasive Precision Detection of Liver Fibrosis









The Cade Prize celebrates pre-seed and seed stage innovations and has been an important part of the journey to market for past Finalists and Winners.

The Cade Prize thanks Scott Mackenzie, Cade Prize Awards Ceremony Chair, Presenting Media Sponsor Florida Trend Magazine, and added sponsors, the Community Foundation of North Central Florida, COX Communications, Gainesville Sun and Saliwanchik, Lloyd & Eisenschenk (SLE Patents).

For future Cade Prize announcements and to learn more about the Cade Museum, visit https://www.cademuseum.org/.

About the Cade Museum

In 2004, Dr. James Robert Cade and his family began work on the Cade Museum for Creativity & Invention in Gainesville, Florida. The Cade's mission is to transform communities by inspiring and equipping future inventors, entrepreneurs, and visionaries. Dr. Cade, a physician and professor of medicine at the University of Florida, was best known as the leader of the team that invented Gatorade in 1965. The Cade Museum is located at 811 South Main Street, Gainesville, FL 32601. An independent 501(c)(3) public foundation, the museum receives no operational funding from federal, state, or local governments, or the University of Florida. Visit CadeMuseum.org for more information.

*In mathematics, the Fibonacci numbers, form a sequence called the Fibonacci sequence, such that each number is the sum of the two preceding ones, starting from 0 and 1. Fibonacci numbers are strongly related to the golden ratio, a proportion commonly used in classical architecture and in the design of the Cade Museum.

Contact:

Sue Draddy

[email protected]

(352) 371-8001

SOURCE Cade Museum for Creativity & Invention

Related Links

www.cademuseum.org


Detectives hope that four faded school pictures found in a decades old case file could lead to new information about a teenager believed to have been murdered by a serial killer.



Investigators posted the four images on social media hoping to identify the young women in the photos. By Wednesday afternoon, three of the four women had been identified.

Quincy police say they believe the photos were taken by a photography company that worked in Massachusetts during the early 1980s.

The four photos were found in the Orange County, Florida case file for a body found in April 1984. Quincy police said the body was found partially buried in a field and went unidentified for nearly 27 years.

The remains were finally identified in 2011 as Colleen Osburn, a 15-year-old who was reported missing from her home in Daytona Beach about a month before the body was discovered.

Investigators said the killer is suspected to be serial killer Christopher Wilder, but the case has remained open.

Wilder, a photographer and racecar driver who earned the nickname "Beauty Queen Killer" because of his crimes, died in New Hampshire after being noticed by state troopers in April 1984. He struggled with troopers and was fatally shot.

"Recently, the Orange County Sheriffs Office Cold Case Unit took a fresh look at Colleens case and located some photos of young women in the case file," police said.

Related video: The Boy Scout turned serial killer: The John Jubert story

The photos were traced back to Miller Studio Photographers, which was engaged with taking senior portraits for several high schools in and around Quincy at the time.

Investigators said they were also able to enhance the writing on the back of each picture, making the messages at least partially decipherable. They said:

Top left: would never be the same without you! Haha! I still getting used to the idea that we are all Seniors now can you believe it. Hope we still see each other after school. Love Kathe (Miller Studio Photographers)

Top right: love Susan (Miller Studio Photographers)

Bottom left: To Jen, Im glad we became good friends. Lets stay close. I only live right up the street. Have a real nice future in everything you do. Friends always. Love Michelle

Bottom right: Jennie, We have been best friends since 4th grade and I certainly hope our friendship continues"

As of Wednesday afternoon, police said three of the four young women pictured had been identified. The picture at the bottom right remains unidentified.

Anyone who recognizes the girls in the photos, or who may know the girls to whom the messages were addressed, is asked to contact the Orange County Sheriffs Office Cold Case Team at: ocsocoldcase@ocfl.net or Call Corporal Dave Nutting at: 407-254-7000 Ext. 70538. Information can also be given to Detective Sergeant David Pacino at 617-745-5721 or dpacino@quincyma.gov.
Gurugram member of Parliament (MP) and union minister Rao Inderjit Singh on Thursday said that the three farm bills passed by the Central government on September 20 were aimed at helping the farmers by allowing them to sell their produce in open markets and across the country without any hindrance. Singh said that the purpose of these bills was to ensure that income of farmers is augmented and they are able to get better prices for their produce.

Singh, who is union minister of state for statistics, was speaking at a press conference in Gurugram on Thursday. He said that opposition parties were falsely creating the an impression that these decisions will eliminate the MSP (minimum support price) system and agriculture mandis (markets) across the country.

He also said that only six per cent of the farming households have been able to get benefit from the MSP system. These farm bills enable the farmers to sell their produce across the country and it allows them to sell their produce wherever they want. It will help them to get better prices. The opposition parties, particularly the Congress, are trying to take advantage of the situation. But this should not happen at the cost of the society and nation. We must rise above petty interests, said Singh.

Singh said that the BJP government has increased the allocation for agriculture in the Union budget from 8.5 percent to 38.8 per cent. This is a clear indication that interests of the farmers wont be hurt.

Farmers in several states have been protesting against the three bills that got the Presidents assent last Sunday.

Taking a dig at the opposition parties, Singh said that eliminating the Agriculture Price Market Committee was part of the Congress partys manifesto of 2019 and the opposition parties were taking an opportunistic view of the current situation. The politics on this issue should not hurt the interests of the common man and the farmers. I left the Congress party because of its failures on these issues, he said.

Singh said that the ownership of the farmers land cannot be compromised in case of contract farming. As far as Swaminathan recommendations are concerned, the BJP government has raised the MSP prices of various crops by more that 50 percent of the cost. It is to be noted that Congress government in 2007 had refused to implement these recommendations, he said.

Gurugram MLA Sudhir Singla and district BJP president Gargi Kakkar were also present on the occasion.

Senior Congress leader and former state minister Captain (Retd) Ajay Singh Yadav said that the three farm bills brought by Union government will destroy the future of Indian agriculture. The government is aiming to bring agriculture under the control of private and corporate sector. The Gurugram MP and the BJP will have to bear the consequences of such disastrous policies. The people of the state will give a befitting reply when the time comes, he said.
Mr Joseph Oscar Mettle, a Musician, has advised parents to invest in the talent development of their children.



He emphasized the need for the children to focus on their education as all talents were maximised by some form of formal education.



Mr Mettle gave this advice in a virtual meeting of kids of the Perbi Cubs Library Services in Accra.



Perbi Cubs Library Services is an evidence-based literacy-promoting endeavour that desires to see an enlightened people of African descent, who are a product of an enviable national culture of leisure reading.



The Perbi Cubs aims to nurture well-rounded children using their Lions Inspire Cubs programme and the reading track and activities based on the GES Curriculum.



Children in the reading community had their Celebration of Talents show in the week, where they exhibited their talents of dancing, acting, playing instruments, writing, arts and drawing and singing.



The musician, in inspiring the children, said education was important.



He said he obtained a degree in Marketing though he knew he had been called to be a Worshiper.



"ln pursuing all these, young people should always have their eyes fixed on God," he added.



He encouraged the children to study hard and to also work on their God-given talents.



I knew that I was called to sing at the age of 10 and since then I did my best to nurture that talent."



He said he moved from playing the drums to singing with groups just to sharpen the skills.



Mr Mettle said the discovery of ones talent could be seen sometimes at an early age, which was usually what the person loves to do and was happy doing.



He said to grow and fully maximize that talent, one must spend time to develop it.



Mrs Anyele Perbi, Co-Founder of Perbi Cubs, said the Lions Inspire Cubs programme, astute men and women, whose lives were worth emulating come on the session to inspire the younger ones.



"These men and women are referred to as Lions," she said.



She said previous Lion Inspire Cubs sessions had hosted some big names like Dr Trebi Ollenu, a Ghanaian Robotics Engineer at NASA and Dr Thomas Mensah, a Ghanaian-American chemical engineer and inventor.



The rest are Dr Elsie Kaufmann, a Ghanaian academic, biomedical engineer and quiz mistress for the National Science and Maths Quiz and Uncle Ebo Whyte, Ghanaian playwright, author and motivational speaker.



The session ended with an awards ceremony for children, who excelled in the celebration of talents show.

Source: GNA









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Featured Video
In Uganda, rigorous lockdown measures have resulted in a low number of COVID-19 casualties but have cost small-scale farmers a huge percentage of their livelihoods. According to Heifer International's recent Uganda COVID-19 Impact Report, the COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted the incomes of an overwhelming majority 97 percent  of small-scale farmers. More than 87 percent of those surveyed by Heifer Uganda reported that their income has been cut in half since March. Men and women who once earned an average of 100,000 shillings ($27) a month are now surviving on a mere $13. And with this loss of income, inevitably, comes hunger. Before COVID-19, 72 percent of the families surveyed ate three meals a day. Now? The majority 87 percent  can only afford two daily meals at most for their households.

To learn the true extent of the pandemics effect on the men and women we work with, Heifer Uganda surveyed small-scale farmers in different parts of the country. Their report provides summary findings gathered from 448 smallholder farmers in the eastern, central, and northern regions of Uganda, along with qualitative data from 10 agri-hubs, four small businesses and three district local governments.

Thanks to stringent lockdown measures, Ugandas coronavirus death count is low compared to other nations  the country of more than 46 million residents has only experienced 63 fatalities to date. Unfortunately, these same safety measures (that have only recently eased) have made it incredibly difficult for small-scale farmers and entrepreneurs to earn a living. In March, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni ordered a country-wide lockdown to limit the spread of COVID-19, including a ban on public transportation, a dusk-till-dawn curfew, and a ban on weekly markets and all nonessential businesses. Privately-owned cars were allowed to operate but with no more than three occupants at a time (including the driver). This meant that producers and poor farmers who rely on public transportation had no way to take their goods to buyers. Many consumers, likewise, found themselves stranded and unable to buy what they needed from their local markets.

A group of farmers wearing protective face masks inspect a bag of seeds. Photo via Heifer Uganda.

Though farming and other agricultural activities were not restricted by the government during the COVID-19 lockdown, it wasn't business as usual for Ugandas agricultural sector. Seventy-one percent of interviewees told us that they had limited access to essential agricultural supplies like seeds, tools, fertilizer, animal feed and other farming essentials during the lockdown. Because of the mandated closure of nonessential businesses, most of these tools were impossible to find. When they were available, they were so expensive that most farmers couldnt afford them.

To learn further about how the pandemic is affecting Ugandan farmers, read the full report here and spread the word by sharing it across your social media channels.
Seoul, Oct 1 : LG Electronics is likely to report its largest third-quarter earnings in 11 years on the back of increased demand for its premium home appliance and TV products amid the pandemic-driven stay-at-home trend, analysts have said.

LG was expected to log $13.7 billion in sales in the July-September period, up 2.7 per cent from a year earlier, while its operating profit was estimated to increase 5.9 per cent on-year to 828 billion won over the period, according to Yonhap Infomax, the financial news arm of Yonhap News Agency.

If LG meets the consensus, it will be the company's best third-quarter performance since 2009, when it bagged 857.9 billion won in operating profit.

Compared with the previous quarter, LG was projected to see a 25.7 per cent increase in sales and a 67.1 per cent surge in operating profit in the third quarter.

"As more people spend more time at home, avoiding events like overseas trips and weddings, demand for upgrading their home appliances and TVs are rising," said Kwon Sung-ryul, an analyst at DB Financial Investment. "TV shipments have been increasing sharply after stores started to operate normally." Analysts said rising online sales and efficient marketing cost management also have contributed to LG's strong third-quarter earnings.

"An expansion of online sales is positive for the company's profitability considering it reduces costs for inventory maintenance and marketing promotions," said Roh Keung-chang, an analyst at HMC Investment & Securities.

"We estimate the portion of online sales in TV and home appliance businesses at around 30 per cent and 20 per cent, respectively." LG's products highlighting health and hygiene features, such as air purifiers and steam dryers, continued to post strong sales in the third quarter, according to analysts, while its TV business was buoyed by enhanced management of its product mix and rising sales of OLED TVs.

The global OLED TV market was tipped to expand to 904,000 units in the third quarter of the year, up 35.7 per cent from a year ago, according to market researcher Omdia. LG is the largest vendor of OLED TVs.

LG's vehicle solutions unit was also projected to narrow its operating losses in the third quarter as its automaking customers resume plant operations after lockdowns.
The acting Chief Medical Officer revealed tonight that one restaurant in Cork was the starting point of a cluster that has caused 57 Covid cases so far.

Speaking to RTE News Dr Ronan Glynn said: "We have one cluster, for example, tonight in Cork, from a cafe restaurant where a number of people from different households socialised.

"At the moment, that cluster is at 57 cases. We have to cut down the size of these clusters, we have to cut down socialisation if we are going to get on top of this disease."

Interview with Acting CMO Dr Ronan Glynn following NPHETs recommendation of restrictions on the number of people who can gather in households | https://t.co/Menj2oy98l https://t.co/nq6Ka0kUoG  RTE News (@rtenews) October 1, 2020

Earlier, the Department of Health has been notified of 442 new cases of Covid-19 and four further deaths.

There has now been a total of 1,806 coronavirus-related deaths in Ireland and 36,597 cases.

There were 170 cases confirmed in Dublin, 47 in Cork and 28 in Donegal.

The remaining breakdown of cases is as follows:

23 in Meath;

21 in Galway;

20 in Monaghan;

14 in Clare;

12 in Roscommon;

11 in Laois and Longford;

10 in Cavan, Limerick and Tipperary;

9 in Kildare;

8 in Wicklow;

5 in Louth and Wexford;

and the remaining 28 cases in 9 counties.

Of today's confirmed cases, 67% are under 45 years of age.

There was also 69 cases identified as community transmission, with 54% of today's cases associated with outbreaks or close contacts.

Meanwhile, no counties will be moved up a level of restrictions today after a decision from NPHET.

However, there will be further nationwide restrictions on visitors to people's homes.

The rules are to change meaning people can have no more than six people from one other household in their home at any one time.

It is in a bid to reduce community transmission caused by gatherings in houses and apartments.

The Department of Health's Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan will return to his post next week.

Dr Holohan stepped back from his role in July to spend time with his family as his wife was receiving palliative care.

Health Minister Stephen Donnelly says he's looking forward to working with the returning CMO.

Read More Ryanair warns it will shut Cork and Shannon bases on October 26

Another 259 people have tested positive for coronavirus in Northern Ireland, the Department of Health said.

It brings the tally of infections to 11,952.

Almost 2,000 have been diagnosed in the last seven days.

Two more deaths were reported.
A walker has died after he suffered serious injuries following an incident believed to have involved cows, the third such incident to occur within just one month.

The man, in his fifties, was walking with a woman through a field near Wakefield, West Yorkshire on Tuesday (29 September) when they were apparently injured by cattle.

The unnamed man was declared dead at the scene by paramedics. The woman, also in her fifties, was flown to hospital in a serious but stable condition.

West Yorkshire Police confirmed the man's death, and has since confirmed the incident is believed to have involved cows.

A spokeswoman for West Yorkshire Police said: "Police were called at 12.46pm on Tuesday to a concern for safety report at a field just off Hollinghirst Lane, Netherton.

"On arrival officers found a man and woman with serious injuries. The man was pronounced dead a short time later. The woman has been taken to hospital.

"Whilst police are in the early stages of the investigation the death is not being treated as suspicious."

It comes after 72-year-old Malcolm Flynn was killed after he was charged by cows on 11 September, near Thirlwall Castle and Gisland in Northumberland.

In a separate incident, school deputy headteacher David Clark died after he was seriously injured by cows while out walking on farmland in North Yorkshire on 21 September.

The spate of livestock incidents involving members of the public has prompted the NFU to issue a warning to others.

Stuart Roberts, NFU deputy president, explained to The Times that cows could be threatened by the presence of dogs.

"If your dog is being threatened by cows, let it go. Cattle will chase dogs instead of you. Generally, dogs will outrun cattle."

On its website, the NFU explains that livestock attacks on the public are 'very rare' given the thousands of walkers who enjoy the countryside every year.

But it adds that it is 'important' that walkers are aware of risks from livestock and to take precautions to reduce the chances of any incident.

The NFU says: Remember that it is a working environment where animals graze. Walkers should be mindful of their surroundings to fully enjoy the experience.

Be vigilant, especially on entering a field or where you cannot see the whole field, and try to stay away from animals and to be aware of their movements

"In the spring its especially important to be sympathetic to farm animals rearing their young and give them space.
For about 100 years, the U.S. government supported a system of boarding schools where more than 100,000 American Indian and Alaska Native children were stripped of their culture, their languages, and their religions and forced to assimilate to white customs.

That policy, which continued until the 1960s, has continued affects on native communities today, says a bill filed this week by Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Rep. Deb Haaland, D-N.M.

The United States has never fully accounted for the harms caused by the schools, the lawmakers said. Their bill, which has attracted a bipartisan list of cosponsors, would form a Truth and Healing Commission on Indian Boarding School Policy to compile records and oral accounts of what happened in at 367 Indian boarding schools across 30 states. Those schools educated children as young as five years old and sometimes forced them into labor in white communities far from their homes, advocacy groups say, but many records of their practices have been lost or destroyed.

The legislation uses some blunt language to make the case for a deep examination of the schools history.

The Indian Boarding School Policy was adopted by the United States Government to strip American Indian and Alaska Native children of their indigenous identities, beliefs, and traditional languages to assimilate them into White American culture through federally funded Christian-run schools, which had the effect of cultural genocide, the bill says.

An early model for those off-site boarding schools was the Carlisle Indian Industrial School in Carlisle, Penn., where founder Gen. Richard Pratt operated under the motto kill the Indian in him, and save the man. Education Week included the Carlisle school in a previous series on Indian education. A timeline shows an archival photo of long-haired students when they first arrived at the school wearing clothing from home. In the next photo, taken four months later, they have short-cropped hair and military-style clothing.

I know not many people are aware of the history of Indian boarding schools, and I know its not taught in schoolsbut our country must do better to acknowledge our real history and push for truth and reconciliation, Haaland, one of the first Native American women elected to Congress, said in a statement. The commission that U.S. Senator Warren and my colleagues want to create will be the first step to the healing that Native communities desperately need.

Warren, who has previously teamed up with Haaland on bills that address native issues, called the boarding school policy a stain on Americas history.

Today, Native American students still lag behind their white peers in academic outcomes, and their stories are frequently overlooked in U.S. history texts. At public schools that work with large populations of Native American students, educators say policies of the past have led to generations of distrust of the government and the education system. In Oregon, for example, a group of districts sought to tackle chronic absenteeism among native students by rebuilding connections with their communities and by incorporating native language and symbols into their classrooms.

A 2018 report by the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights documented some of those ongoing harms , calling boarding schools a crucial precursor to many of the existing problems for some Native Americans.

The commission formed by that bill would also develop recommendations for the U.S. government to acknowledge and heal the trauma caused by its support of the schools and to stop modern-day assimilation practices carried out by State social service departments, foster care agencies, and adoption services.

In 2014, a similar commission in Canada determined that more than 4,000 Indigenous students died while attending government-funded boarding schools there.

The National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition, a non-profit organization formed to address the legacy of Indian boarding schools in the United States, called a commission long overdue.

There can be no change for the future without acknowledgement of the past and there can be no racial equity for all if the conversation doesnt start with the first nations of these lands, said a statement from Christine Diindiisi McCleave, the organizations CEO and a citizen of Turtle Mountain Ojibwe Nation.

Photo: The student body of the Carlisle Indian Industrial School, a model for other boarding schools, taken around 1885. -Carlisle Indian School Project at Dickinson College

Follow us on Twitter @PoliticsK12 . And follow the Politics K-12 reporters @EvieBlad @Daarel and @AndrewUjifusa .
Karni Sena leader Surjeet Singh Rathore, who was present at Mumbai's Cooper Hospital on June 15, has joined a BJP leader to make an explosive claim that Rhea Chakraborty was at Sushant Sing Rajput's residence a night before he died.

Speaking to Republic TV, Surjeet claimed that film producer Suraj Singh, who was also present at the hospital, told him that Rhea was there at the late actor's residence on the night of June 13 but had then left.

"When I went to Cooper Hospital on June 15, Suraj Singh had told me that Rhea Chakraborty was at Sushant's residence on the night of June 13 and had left then itself may be due to some fight. Suraj Singh was co-ordinating everything and he had called Rhea and introduced me to her and Sandeep... I don't know any of them," Surjeet said.

When asked why he revealed this in public now and not approached the probing authorities even after three months of Sushant's death, Surjeet said he was not approached by the CBI. He also said that he had made this revelation earlier too but it was 'missed' by the media.

Surjeet also noted the presence of Sandeep Ssingh at the scene and said he was told that the producer was a 'friend' of Sushant. Moreover, Surjeet stated that he didn't personally know Sushant and hasn't been in touch with Suraj for months now.

Earlier in August, Surjeet had told Republic TV that Rhea had said 'Sorry babu' as soon as she saw Sushant's face at Cooper Hospital. He added that Rhea's brother and mother too wished to see Sushant's body but were not allowed to do so by the Mumbai police.

READ | Sushant Case: Eyewitness Claims Rhea Said sorry Babu On Seeing Actors Body At Morgue

READ | Sushant's Sister Shweta Responds To 'SSR Met Rhea On June 13' Claim; Says 'game-changer'

BJP neta's big claim

Earlier in the day, BJP Mumbai Secretary Advocate Vivekanand Gupta claimed that Sushant met Rhea on June 13 has said that he is also willing to get in touch with the CBI which is probing the case.

The BJP leader has said that he has information about the alleged Sushant-Rhea meeting which took place on the 13th. He said that some eyewitness told him they saw both Sushant and Rhea at 3 am at a location and then the late actor dropped her home. Vivekanand Gupta has also said that he is ready to depose before the central investigating agency.

"On the 13th night, there was a birthday of a big politician and another politician has also tweeted about how there can be a party in the lockdown. It means the minister knows there was a party and he knows who all were present. This incident happened on the night of 13th and 14th. Eyewitness have told me that around 2 am to 3 am, Sushant went to drop Rhea till her home. So saying that she left on June 8 is not correct. On the 14th morning, he was murdered and then hanged. I have tweeted about everything so the investigating agencies must be monitoring it. Whenever the CBI will call me, I will go and also give the identity of the witness to the CBI. I won't give any information to Mumbai Police," he said.

"The postmortem done by Cooper Hospital was done in a very dim light, which shows they were trying to hide something. That means it was done after a very long time. Feels like there is a conspiracy and it must have been done under some pressure," the BJP leader said. He also questioned Rhea Chakraborty's visit to the mortuary and said that some filmstar or minister or any influential personality is being protected.

Rhea Chakraborty had allegedly left Sushant's Bandra residence on June 8, days before he was found dead in the same flat on June 14. Her lawyer Satish Maneshinde had claimed in an interview that it was at Sushant Singh Rajputs behest that she left his home on June 8.

READ | MASSIVE: 'Rhea Met Sushant On The Night Of June 13th; He Dropped Her Home,' Says BJP Neta

READ | Ishkaran's #Revolution4SSR For Sushant Singh Rajput Gathers Momentum; Shweta, Ankita Join
BALTIMORE, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Tamiflu-maker Hoffman-La Roche (OTCMKTS  RHHBY) must answer to whistleblower charges that it falsified claims of Tamiflu's effectiveness in fighting influenza and fraudulently induced the federal government to stockpile millions of doses for a feared flu pandemic, a federal judge in Maryland ruled Monday.

In rejecting Roche's request to dismiss the lawsuit filed under the False Claims Act, U.S. District Judge George L. Russell III ruled that Roche's marketing and alleged false statements about the efficacy of Tamiflu (oseltamivir) as alleged by whistleblower Dr. Thomas Jefferson were material and capable of influencing the government's purchasing decisions.

According to the lawsuit, Roche falsified scientific conclusions and mounted a high-powered marketing and lobbying campaign to win government contracts. In fact, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration previously warned Roche that its data did not support those claims and that such statements were misleading. Despite that, federal and state governments spent more than $1.4 billion to stockpile Tamiflu between 2005 and 2009. Roche is vulnerable to a judgment in excess of $4 billion because the False Claims Act mandates payment of triple damages, plus civil penalties.

"We were confident that the court would deny the motion and are excited to present these compelling facts to a jury," said whistleblower lawyer Clayton Halunen of Minnesota-based Halunen Law. "We are particularly pleased that the court applied the proper standard for materialitywhether a defendant's false statements are capable of influencing the government's payment decisions."

Dr. Jefferson, the whistleblower, is a public health researcher affiliated with the respected global Cochrane Collaboration research network. He began questioning Tamiflu's effectiveness in 2009 and spearheaded efforts to have the company release underlying clinical study data. After finally obtaining the data in 2013, Dr. Jefferson concluded that the clinical data did not support Roche's claims.

"The False Claims Act has important safeguards to protect taxpayers and prevent unscrupulous corporations from making false claims to win government contracts," said trial lawyer Chris Gadoury of The Lanier Law Firm in Houston. "This case is more important than ever as our government responds to the desperate need to stockpile protective equipment and supplies for the Covid-19 pandemic."

The case is United States of America, ex rel. Thomas Jefferson v Hoffman-La Roche Inc. et al. In the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. Case No. 14-CV-03665.

About the Lanier Law Firm

For more than 30 years, the men and women at the Lanier Law Firm have worked tirelessly, throughout the United States, to find unique and effective solutions for their clients. More than 60 skilled attorneys practice law in a broad array of areas, including business litigation, pharmaceutical litigation, asbestos exposure, oil and gas litigation, personal injury, and defective and dangerous products, among others. Named an Elite Trial Law Firm by The National Law Journal, the Lanier Law Firm has offices in Houston, New York and Los Angeles. To learn more about Mark Lanier and the Lanier Law Firm, visit http://www.lanierlawfirm.com .

About Halunen Law

With offices in Minneapolis, Chicago and Phoenix, Halunen Law offers experienced legal representation to employees and whistleblowers across the country. Halunen Law has achieved a reputation as a fearless, tenacious and successful plaintiffs' law firm, with a laser focus on achieving justice for its clients as well as meaningful social change. The firm's qui tam / whistleblower practice group specializes in actions under the federal and state False Claims Acts and other whistleblower laws. For more information, visit http://www.halunenlaw.com

Media Contact:

Robert Tharp

214-458-4007

[email protected]

SOURCE Lanier Law Firm
On Sept. 29, the nation was given its initial glance at the first of three presidential debates between President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden.

The debate has led to a firestorm of tweets on Twitter with political commentators such as CNN's Dana Bash calling the affair a "sh-tshow."
Today, (Thursday, 1st October 2020) marks the start of HSE National Breastfeeding Week with the news that the HSEs Ask Our Breastfeeding Expert online service recorded a 57 per cent increase in demand over recent months as parents of babies born during COVID-19 restrictions sought online advice.

The figures compare queries made to the mychild.ie breastfeeding support service between April and August against the same period in 2019. There were 567 live chats (up 35% from 419 in the five-month period in 2019) and 1,121 emails were answered (a 71% increase from 652 in 2019).

Part of hse.ie, the mychild.ie site includes extensive breastfeeding information, videos and guides as well as the Ask Our Breastfeeding Expert service plus wider pregnancy and child health information. A team of lactation consultants provide free personalised advice to users by email and live chat.

The most popular queries received by the service during this time included: how to prepare for breastfeeding while pregnant, how to restart breastfeeding after a break and issues around pain and breastfeeding.

The support options available online are being highlighted as part of this years National Breastfeeding Week, which runs from today until next Wednesday, 7th October.

The Ask Our Breastfeeding Expert online service is available seven days a week with the live chat service available Monday to Friday from 10am to 3pm. It was established in 2014.

Other supports have been developed during the pandemic, with a number of hospital antenatal breastfeeding classes and some breastfeeding groups run by the HSE and voluntary organisations moving online. Over 60 virtual breastfeeding support group meetings were held online in August. Phone and virtual breastfeeding support is also being made available to replace face-to-face appointments as services try to re-establish safely, while face-to-face one-to-ones are being provided where needed.

HSE National Breastfeeding Coordinator Laura McHugh said: Parents who welcomed new babies in 2020 never expected to do so during a pandemic. We understand the past seven months have been hugely challenging for families in accessing face-to-face breastfeeding support in communities. I want to acknowledge the efforts by HSE staff and particularly the many breastfeeding volunteers who have continued to provide virtual and phone support during this time.

While mothers continue to be supported during their hospital stay and at home, the increase in queries to the Ask Our Breastfeeding Expert service coincided with reduced face-to-face contact with other healthcare professionals. Important sources of breastfeeding information and advice such as antenatal classes and breastfeeding support groups had to be cancelled so the online support service is proving more popular than ever.

Nothing can fully replace the face-to-face experience, but the impact of COVID-19 restrictions has underlined the vital role of online support for parents. We saw an increase in the number of queries from those who were pregnant and also from people who wanted to start breastfeeding again having stopped for a time. For example, one mother contacted the service on two occasions for advice whilst considering stopping breastfeeding and on returning to work during the summer; because of lockdown it meant she had more time at home and was able to breastfeed longer than she had originally intended to.

Hospital data from 2019 shows that 63.7 per cent of babies in Ireland (in 2019) are breastfed on leaving hospital. This represents a 13% increase since 2007.

Ms McHugh says that mothers experiences of feeding in hospital and the community is improving: Hospital and community services are working to deliver more breastfeeding support to mothers, particularly over the last few months. This includes providing antenatal education classes online, virtual one-to-one consultations in the home and phone support, while continuing antenatal and postnatal face-to-face consultations for mothers and babies where needed.

Having a new baby is life-changing and breastfeeding is a skill that takes time and practice to master. In the early days, skin-to-skin contact and keeping your baby close to you will help you recognise the signals they make to tell you they are hungry or want a cuddle. This will help you settle into a rhythm together. Responding to your babys needs helps them feel secure, while supporting their brain development. We want to let mothers know about supports available on mychild.ie to help them to breastfeed for as long as they wish.

National Breastfeeding Week takes place from 1st to 7th October. To join the HSE parenting and breastfeeding community, see the HSE mychild.ie Facebook page and hse_mychild on Instagram #hsemychild #breastfeeding #breastfeedingweek

NUI Galway will host an online webinar in collaboration with the HSE in support of National Breastfeeding Week 2020. The theme of the online event is Diverse global perspectives on breastfeeding and breastfeeding support.The online webinar will take place on October 7th, 2 - 5 .30pm with an introduction by Ms. Sabina Higgins who is a strong advocate for breastfeeding and breastfeeding mothers, and will include other high profile guest speakers from across the world. The COVID-19 pandemic has motivated the arrangement of this virtual conference so that mothers, fathers, breastfeeding supporters, health care professionals, and policy makers get the opportunity to share and learn from our local and global experts.

The full programme for the event is available at www.nuigalway.ie/breastfeedingconference2020

This webinar is open to anyone with an interest in breastfeeding.

Registration for this event is essential as placed will be limited. Please go to this link to register and to receive important information about accessing the webinar on the day:

https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/ diverse-global-perspectives- on-breastfeeding-and- breastfeeding-support-tickets- 122400433993
New American Eagle Gold Coin and Silver Coin Reverses

The United States Mint (Mint) today unveiled new reverse (tails) designs for bullion and collectible versions of American Eagle Gold and Silver Coins. 2021 marks the 35th Anniversary of the American Eagle Coin Program, and the new designs will begin appearing on these coins in midyear 2021.

These beautiful designs build on the United States Mints heritage of artistic excellence and fortify the American Eagle Coin Programs status as an icon in the numismatic and art worlds, said Mint Director David J. Ryder.

Redesigned American Eagle Gold Reverse

The design depicts a portrait of an eagle. Inscriptions are "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," "IN GOD WE TRUST," "50 DOLLARS," and "1 OZ. FINE GOLD." Mint Artistic Infusion Program (AIP) designer Jennie Norris created the design that was sculpted by Mint Medallic Artist Renata Gordon.

Ms. Norris, a former volunteer raptor handler, drew inspiration for her design from her deep connection with wildlife, noting that, The American Eagle is such a noble bird. I was hoping to capture the intensity of his stare through the close cropping. His gaze speaks of pride and wisdom passed down through generations of time.

Redesigned American Eagle Silver Reverse

The design depicts a single eagle coming in for a landing, carrying an oak branch as if to add it to a nest. Inscriptions are "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," "1 OZ. FINE SILVER," and "ONE DOLLAR." AIP designer Emily Damstra created the design, which was sculpted by Mint Medallic Artist Michael Gaudioso.

Reflecting on her design, Ms. Damstra commented: My inspiration for this design grew from a desire to show our national birdwith all of the values it embodiesin a unique way that could also convey traits such as diligence, cooperation, care, and protection.

Visit https://www.usmint.gov/news/image-library/american-eagle-coins to view the new designs.

The obverses (heads) of the redesigned American Eagle Gold and Silver Coins will continue to bear versions of the historic designs that have been featured on these coins for more than three decades. The gold coin obverse will display a refreshed depiction of the 1907 design by renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, while the obverse of the silver coin will display a refreshed depiction of the 1916 Walking Liberty design by famed sculptor Adolph A. Weinman.

The San Francisco-minted 2020 American Eagle One Ounce Silver Proof Coin (20EM) and the West Point-minted 2020 American Eagle One Ounce Gold Uncirculated Coin (20EH) will be the last issues of these coins featuring the current design.

The 2020 American Eagle One Ounce Silver Proof Coin (20EM) bearing San Franciscos S mint mark will go on sale October 13, 2020, and the 2020 American Eagle One Ounce Gold Uncirculated Coin (20EH) on November 19, 2020. To sign up for Remind Me alerts, visit:



To reduce the risk of employee exposure to COVID-19 in the workplace, the Mints sales centers are closed until further notice. Additionally, due to operational adjustments in response to COVID-19, our customer service representatives are available to assist with any questions you may have, but are unable to accept credit card information or place your order over the phone. Please use our website for all order placements at this time.

About the United States Mint

Congress created the United States Mint in 1792, and the Mint became part of the Department of the Treasury in 1873. As the Nations sole manufacturer of legal tender coinage, the Mint is responsible for producing circulating coinage for the Nation to conduct its trade and commerce. The Mint also produces numismatic products, including proof, uncirculated, and commemorative coins; Congressional Gold Medals; silver and bronze medals; and silver and gold bullion coins. Its numismatic programs are self-sustaining and operate at no cost to taxpayers.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:



Visit https://catalog.usmint.gov/coin-programs/american-eagle/?cm_sp=FM-_-AE-lp-_-091920&scp=AEFLAG for more information about the American Eagle Coin Program.

To request interviews with the American Eagle Gold and Silver Coin designers and medallic artists, email inquiries@usmint.treas.gov with Artist Interview Opportunity in the subject line.

Visit http://www.usmint.gov/about for information about the United States Mint.

Visit catalog.usmint.gov/email-signup to subscribe to United States Mint electronic product notifications, news releases, and public statements.

Sign up for RSS Feeds from the United States Mint and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.

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United States Mint  Connecting America through Coins


Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 20:25:41|Editor: huaxia

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A racer competes during a buffalo racing in Chonburi, Thailand, Oct. 1, 2020. Hundreds of buffaloes took part in the buffalo racing festival held annually in October among rice farmers to celebrate the rice harvest. (Xinhua/Rachen Sageamsak)
BOSTON, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, The Rockefeller Foundation announced its support for the Boston University Center for Antiracist Research with a $1.5 million grant, as part of the Foundation's continued commitment to expand equity and economic opportunity for low wage families and communities of color across the country. The funds from this grant will support the Center's antiracist research and data analysis to inform public and private policymakers.

As one of the founding funders of the Center for Antiracist Research, The Rockefeller Foundation continues its support of grantees who are committed to innovative policy solutions that address the structural causes of racial and economic inequality. Low-income Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPoC) will significantly benefit from the Center's efforts to mitigate the effects of historically discriminatory policies through research, narrative engagement with stakeholders and the general public, and advocacy efforts.

"Racism is finally at or near the top of America's agenda," says Otis Rolley III, Senior Vice President of The Rockefeller Foundation's U.S. Equity and Economic Opportunity Initiative. "The racial wealth gap in America is both striking and durable, as a result of systemic racist policies and practices. It takes wealth to make wealth, and Black and Brown Americans have largely been excluded from inter-generational access to capital and finance. The Center for Antiracist Research will help provide solutions to these systemic issues that have long restricted BIPoC people from obtaining wealth, and will work toward equity and justice for all." He adds, "We are thrilled to be working with the Center - built in the very halls where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once studied - on practical solutions to these issues."

Funding will also support the Center's efforts to build a Racial Data Tracker that will track, visualize, and analyze racial inequities while also training generations of racial data scientists. Building on the data-driven insights, the Center will convene specialists, scholars, and policymakers to create an antiracist agenda that targets the most pernicious social effects of systemic racism. Separately, the Foundation is engaging Dr. Ibram X. Kendi as an advisor to the Foundation's internal DEI and racial equity work.

"It's a game changing gift for us," says Dr. Kendi, scholar and founding director of Boston University's Center for Antiracist Research. "It will allow us to accelerate our COVID and racial data tracker and our research teams to really study the problem and make more of a policy impact."

About The Rockefeller Foundation

The Rockefeller Foundation advances new frontiers of science, data, and innovation to solve global challenges related to health, food, power, and economic mobility. As a science-driven philanthropy focused on building collaborative relationships with partners and grantees, The Rockefeller Foundation seeks to inspire and foster large-scale human impact that promotes the well-being of humanity throughout the world by identifying and accelerating breakthrough solutions, ideas, and conversations. For more information, sign up for our newsletter at rockefellerfoundation.org and follow us on Twitter @RockefellerFdn .

About the Boston University Center for Antiracist Research

The mission of the Boston University Center for Antiracist Research is to convene researchers and practitioners from various disciplines to figure out novel and practical ways to understand, explain, and solve seemingly intractable problems of racial inequity and injustice. The Center fosters exhaustive racial research, research-based policy innovation, data-driven educational and advocacy campaigns, and narrative-change initiatives. The Center is working toward building an antiracist society that ensures equity and justice for all.

SOURCE The Rockefeller Foundation

Related Links

http://rockefellerfoundation.org


Right-thinking people  like you and me  know that battery-powered electric cars are, at best, a stop-gap measure.

I  we?  have never doubted that an electric motor is a fine way to power a car. Simple technology, instant acceleration, quiet, reliable. The issue is the batteries. Despite the promises of electric car supporters, battery technology hasnt really progressed all that much since the Baker Electrics car company went out of business more than 100 years ago.

Battery weight, cost, their use of huge amounts of poisonous heavy metal, limited range (especially in colder climates), iffy recharging capacity, the still-unresolved issues of crash performance and the related challenges of repairing crashed high-voltage electric cars, and disposal of the dead batteries after 10 to 15 years are just a few of the serious problems.

The solution has been obvious for some time  hydrogen-based fuel cells to generate the required electricity.

Several carmakers such as Toyota, Honda, Hyundai and Mercedes-Benz already build hydrogen-powered cars, although I think only Hyundai currently offers them here in Canada. And the California-based Hyperion Motors recently unveiled its one-off XP-1, a hydrogen-powered supercar, which company CEO Angelo Kafantris says will have a range of over 1,600 kilometres.

The appeal of the technology is obvious. Hydrogen is the most abundant element in our universe. The challenge is that free hydrogen is difficult to make. In a perfect world, you would use solar-powered electrolysis to make hydrogen from water  H2O. The only byproduct is oxygen.

When you burn the hydrogen, the only exhaust is water. Perfect. But in the less-than-perfect world we live in, splitting the hydrogen molecule is somewhat more difficult.

A recent report here in the Star (near the front of the paper where a lot of Wheels readers may not have seen it) suggests that hydrogen, as a fuel, may be closer to the mainstream than most people think. Several European countries such as Germany, France and Spain are committing billions to develop alternate ways of producing hydrogen.

And if Canada plays its cards right, we too could become a big player.

We all know about OPEC  the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries. I have previously postulated the future existence of OHEC  the Organization of Hydrogen Exporting Countries. Canada could become a charter member. I have previously told you that Canadian Tire is using hydrogen-powered forklift trucks in many of its warehouses.

So we have a bit of a head start.

One of Canadas built-in advantages is that we have huge reserves of natural gas, which chemically speaking is largely methane  CH4. Its not unfeasible at all to scrub off the carbon atom (that C), sequester it away, possibly in many of Canadas tapped-out mines, and use the hydrogen for fuel.

Right now, the cost of hydrogen is too expensive to compete.

But Maggie Hanna, president of Common Ground Energy and a fellow with Albertas Energy Futures Lab, has been quoted as saying that Alberta could produce hydrogen for as little as $1.35 a kilogram.

Quebec has loads of the lithium needed to make batteries, which could use the power its Manic-5 hydroelectric project produces, if only those reserves hadnt been flooded by the dam.

I think thats almost the definition of irony. Still, the province could have a second shot at playing a leading role by using that power to produce hydrogen.

In fact, they are already investigating the feasibility of building a plant to turn biomass  waste wood, paper, and other carbon-containing scrap  into hydrogen that they say will be price-competitive with petroleum fuels. Canadas federal government is trying to present a green face to the population in advance of an expected general election. Committing funds to hydrogen development seems to fit nicely into that plan.

Will they be smart enough, courageous enough, bold enough, to step up to the plate? The challenge for politicians who work on a four to five year election cycle is making commitments that may not pay off for another 10 to 20 years. And the funds needed to pay for all the pandemic-related expenses will make these commitments even more difficult to make now.

But the appeal should be obvious.

The clock is ticking. Somebodys going to do it.

Why not Canada?
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: India is prepared to inaugurate soon 43 bridges mostly lying in states with the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.

A source said, Of the total 43 brides completed and are waiting for the inauguration, eight bridges are in Arunachal Pradesh, two in Himachal Pradesh, 10 in Jammu and Kashmir, seven in Ladakh, four in Sikkim, and eight in Uttarakhand.

Four more are being constructed in Punjab, towards the western borders with Pakistan, he said.

Maj Gen SB Asthana (Retd), a defence analyst, says bridges are very important for connectivity in mountains. Even a small gap keeps you away from the borders and the people living there are not connected with the other parts of the country.

For the movement of the military and its vehicles, these bridges are the only way to cross the gorges which at times are very deep. This helps in maintaining logistics in these far-flung areas, tell Maj Gen Asthana.

India has made it clear that it will continue to build infrastructure to connect with the far-flung areas as it is through these roads and bridges the services and development can be extended.

China has been protesting against India's infrastructure development along the LAC.

The Border Roads Organisation has built more than 40 bridges between 2018-2019 in Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh (Kargil and Leh), Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Assam, and Arunachal Pradesh.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Rahul Gandhi will go to meet the family members of the Hathras Dalit girl who died at Safdarjang hospital in New Delhi on Tuesday. The victim was allegedly gang-raped by four men on September 14.

Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi and sister Priyanka Gandhi, party general secretary in-charge of Uttar Pradesh will meet the family members of the Hathras rape victim today. Sources suggest that heavy security has been deployed at the DND, the Gandhis are likely to be stopped there while Congress workers are already holding protests there.

Hathras rape victim succumbed to assault injuries at a hospital in New Delhi on Tuesday. According to sources, Vadra spoke to the family members of the victim, who was allegedly gang-raped by four upper-caste men at Hathras on September 14, and assured them that she would visit their house. Planning is being done, she can go anytime, a source said.

In a series of tweets, Vadra has hit out at the Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh over the Hathras incident. I want to ask some questions to the chief minister of UP  Who ordered to cremate the body of the victim, forcefully denying the family its right to do so? What kind of chief minister are you, she tweeted in Hindi on Wednesday.

Also read: President Kovind turns 75, Prime Minister Modi, Home Minister Shah and others extend greetings

Also Read: Bihar elections 2020: JP Nadda meets top leaders over election strategy, seat sharing

I was on the phone with the Hathras victims father. I heard him cry out in despair. He had just been telling me that all he wanted was justice for his child. Last night he was robbed of the chance to take his daughter home for the last time and perform her last rites, Gandhi said in her first two tweets on the issue on Wednesday. The Hathras victims body reached from Delhis Safdarjung Hospital after midnight. The 19-year-old died in Safdarjung Hospital on Tuesday, after she was gang-raped in Hathras a fortnight ago. The victim was brought to Safdarjung Hospital on Monday from Aligarh Muslim University Medical College.

I was on the phone with the Hathras victims father when he was informed that his daughter had passed away. I heard him cry out in despair. 1/3  Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) September 30, 2020

Earlier Priyanka slammed the Chief Minister after the last rites of the Hathras gang-rape victim was performed at her native place in the absence of her family members, in the wee hours of Wednesday. Priyanka, in a tweet, said, Yogi Adityanath RESIGN. Instead of protecting the victim and her family, your government became complicit in depriving her of every single human right, even in death. You have no moral right to continue as Chief Minister, Gandhi added.

Also Read: Hathras horror: Outrage over victims midnight cremation, PM dials Yogi Adityanath; SIT to submit report in 7 days
The government is considering succession plan as one of the requirements for private companies interested in participating in the One District-One Factory (1D1F) programme.



According to the Minister of Trade and Industry, Alan Kyetematen, an effective succession plan would ensure that companies were competitive and operational in the future when the current owners were no more in existence.



Citing Darko Farms, Kasapreko Company Limited, among others, he said, the instituted succession plan would ensure that companies outlived their owners and became key players in Ghanas industrialisation drive.



The minister said these here in Kumasi yesterday, when he toured the factories of Appiah Menka Complex Limited, a soap and cooking oil production company.



He noted that In most developed and matured economies, you will notice century old companies which are still very competitive. We want our companies to emulate the practice and be beneficial both to the current owners and future generations. That can only happen if there is a good structure which can sustain the company for many years.



Established in 1979, Appiah Menka ceased operations in 2014, due to financial constraints and other economic factors, but it is currently enrolled under the 1D1F programme awaiting government support to be able to restart operations.



Mr Kyerematen said, the story of Appiah Menka reinforces governments decision to include existing companies in the 1D1F, adding the idea of government is to raise industries and support existing companies which are distressed, but have the potential succeed. Why will you abandon a company which already has made significant investments and go start something new?



The minister said the company, which has oil palm as it main raw material would strengthen governments plan to make oil palm one of the strategic anchor industries to diversify Ghanas economy and enhance export.



Kwaku Appiah Menka, Director of the Company, said that the company was in the process of securing capital injection amounting to US$5 million dollars for new equipment and working capital to restart operations.



When at full capacity, he said the company would employ 200 workers and provide indirect jobs to more than 1000 farmers engaged in the production of oil palm.



Without any unforeseen challenges, the company, he noted, would commence operations by second quarter of next year.

Source: GNA









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Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra were detained by Uttar Pradesh police on October 1, after the former was allegedly shoved and pushed to the ground by police personnel, as they made their way to Hathras district from New Delhi.

The Gandhis had planned to visit the village and meet family members of the 19-year-old woman who died on September 29, two weeks after being raped and tortured by four men in Hathras.

Accompanied by Congress supporters, the Gandhis had started a foot-march to Hathras -- more than 140 kilometres away -- after their vehicles were stopped at the Delhi-UP border. Congress supporters and the police clashed in the ensuing chaos on the Yamuna Expressway.

"I want to walk to Hathras alone. Please tell me under which section are you arresting me?" Rahul Gandhi was seen asking the police, in a video tweeted by news agency ANI.

"We are arresting you under Section 188 IPC for violation of an order," police responded.



#WATCH Congress leader Rahul Gandhi roughed up by police on his way to Hathras, at Yamuna Expressway, earlier today

Rahul Gandhi has been arrested by police under Section 188 IPC. pic.twitter.com/nU5aUSS64q  ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) October 1, 2020

Just now police pushed me, lathicharged me and threw me to the ground. I want to ask, can only people belonging to the RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh) and BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) walk in this country? Can only Modi ji walk in this country? Can't a normal person walk? Our vehicle was stopped, so we started walking, Rahul Gandhi told reporters.

Upon detention, the Gandhis were taken by the police to the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida.

Many Samajwadi Party (SP) workers who were staging a protest in Hathras, demanding justice for the rape victim, were also detained by police.

Earlier in the day, the local administration in Hathras sealed the districts borders and imposed Section 144 to help maintain law and order.

Various social and political organisations have targeted the Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath-led state government over the "deteriorating" law and order situation.

The womans body was cremated before dawn on September 30 in Hathras. The victims family has accused the police of not allowing them to take her body home prior to the cremation.

She died at the Safdarjung hospital in Delhi on September 29. She had been shifted to Delhi from Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh on September 28 after her condition showed no signs of improvement. The four accused have already been arrested.

The womans death led to sharp reactions from various sections of the society, including the opposition.
A police hunt is underway for a group of highway bandits after a sleeping truck driver was dragged from his vehicle and shot twice in the leg then robbed.

Emergency services were called to the Great Western Highway at Mount Lambie, 160km northwest of Sydney, about 5am on Tuesday following reports a truck driver had been shot.

The 42-year-old man, from Western Australia, was treated at the scene for injuries to his right upper thigh and right foot.

He was rushed to Lithgow hospital then airlifted to Westmead hospital, where he underwent surgery. He remains in a stable condition.

A 42-year-old truck driver was pulled from his vehicle (pictured) assaulted, robbed, and shot twice, in Mount Lambie during the early hours of Tuesday morning

Police are appealing for anyone that may have been travelling along the Great Western Highway (pictured) between 8pm on Monday and 5am on Tuesday to come forward

'The injuries this man sustained from the assault and the shooting were significant and given the location he was left in, he is lucky to be alive,' Superintendent Robert Critchlow said.

The man told police he was sleeping in his vehicle when a group of men broke into the cabin, assaulted him, dragged him outside then shot him twice.

The attackers then stole personal items from the truck, before fleeing the area in other vehicles.

Detectives from the State Crime Commands Criminal Groups Squad are investigating the assault under Strike Force Hathern.

The vehicle and a number of items have been seized to undergo forensic examination.

Police are appealing for anyone that may have been travelling along the Great Western Highway between 8pm on Monday and 5am on Tuesday to come forward.

Detective Superintendent Robert Critchlow said they are specifically seeking dashcam footage from any vehicles that were in the area at the time.

Investigations continue.
In September 2015, the US National Institutes of Health placed a funding moratorium on research that involves introducing human pluripotent stem cells into animal embryos--a practice that experts say is vital for advancing the field of regenerative medicine. To assess attitudes on human-animal chimeric embryo research, investigators conducted a survey among 430 Americans. The results of the survey, which found that 82% of people are supportive of at least some parts of this research, appear October 1 in the journal Stem Cell Reports.

"The take-home point is that the overall support for this kind of research across the American public is strong," says co-author Francis Shen, a professor of law at the University of Minnesota and executive director of the Harvard Massachusetts General Hospital Center for Law, Brain, and Behavior. "I think this speaks to the public's interest in the transformative potential of regenerative medicine for addressing disease in a variety of organs."

"Public attitudes were more supportive than I thought would have been possible in the current political climate," says first author Andrew Crane, a researcher in the Department of Neurosurgery at the University of Minnesota.

Crane and senior author Walter Low, a professor in the Department of Neurosurgery and Stem Cell Institute at the University of Minnesota, conduct research on stem cell applications for neurological disorders like Parkinson's disease. One project focuses on generating human neural stem cells within pig brains. After learning that colleagues in Japan had done a survey on public attitudes about this type of research, they decided to conduct a similar study in the United States. Low and Crane began a collaboration with the Japan group and with Shen, who specializes in ethics at the intersection of law and neuroscience.

The study included two waves of data collection: 227 participants were surveyed in July 2018 and 203 additional participants were surveyed in June 2020. The participants were recruited through an Amazon service called Mechanical Turk and were paid $1 for completing the survey. The questions in the survey were similar to those included in the Japanese study.

The participants knew "next to nothing "about this research going into the survey, Shen explains. "We used images, and we clarified how this research might be done, breaking it down into steps."

The survey questions were designed to assess opinions on the progressive steps of human-animal chimeric embryo research, by asking participants which aspects of research they were willing to accept based on their personal feelings. For example, it included scenarios about first injecting human stem cells into a pig embryo, then transplanting that embryo into a pig uterus to produce a pig with a human organ, and finally transplanting that organ into a human patient. It also broke down research by organ, with support for some tissue types being higher than others: 61% for heart, 64% for blood, 73% for liver, and 62% for skin, versus 44% for sperm/eggs and 51% for brain.

"With regard to putting human brain cells into animal brains, we've heard concerns about the animals having some sort of human consciousness, but that's quite far off from where the science is right now and from anything that we've tried to advocate for in our research," Crane says. "We understand this is a concern that should not be taken lightly, but it shouldn't prohibit us from moving the research forward."

The survey was also designed to assess cultural differences, and the researchers were surprised to find that support was relatively high even among religious and cultural conservatives. The largest factor influencing opposition to the research was concern about animal rights.

"As investigators in the US, we've hit a roadblock with a lot of this research with regard to funding," Crane says. He adds that a lack of funding could lead to the research moving to countries with fewer ethical safeguards in place.

"The three biggest concerns about this research are animal welfare, human dignity, and the possibility of neurological humanization," Shen concludes. "We would love to do focus groups to look deeper at some of these questions."

###

Other contributors to this study include Jennifer Brown, Warren Cormack, and Joseph Voth at the University of Minnesota; Tsutomu Sawai, Taichi Hatta, and Misao Fujita at the University of Kyoto in Japan, and Mercedes Ruiz-Estevez at Recombinetics, Inc., in Eagan, Minnesota.

The study was funded with internal University of Minnesota Law School faculty grant funding and by the University of Minnesota Brain Sciences Fund.

Stem Cell Reports, Crane et al. "The American Public Is Ready to Accept Human-Animal Chimera Research" https://www.cell.com/stem-cell-reports/fulltext/S2213-6711(20)30374-X

Stem Cell Reports, published by Cell Press for the International Society for Stem Cell Research (@ISSCR), is a monthly open-access forum communicating basic discoveries in stem cell research, in addition to translational and clinical studies. The journal focuses on shorter, single-point manuscripts that report original research with conceptual or practical advances that are of broad interest to stem cell biologists and clinicians. Visit http://www.cell.com/stem-cell-reports. To receive Cell Press media alerts, please contact press@cell.com.
Abu Dhabi state fund Mubadala Investment Co will invest Rs 6,247.5 crore to secure 1.4 percent in the retail unit of Reliance Industries (RIL) as investor interest in the Indian company surges.

This latest investment  with Silver Lakes co-investors and General Atlantic, the fifth in three weeks  values Reliance Retail at a pre-money equity value of Rs 4.285 lakh crore, RIL said in an exchange filing.

Mubadala is the second-biggest state investor in Abu Dhabi after Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, managing about $240 billion in assets.

On September 30, RIL said private equity firm General Atlantic will invest 36.75 billion rupees ($498.31 million) for a 0.84% stake in its retail arm, while Silver Lake co-investors will also buy 18.75 billion rupees ($254.89 million) stake.

The deals reflect growing investor interest in Reliance Retail, which is led by Asias richest man Mukesh Ambani. Reliance is seeking investors for its retail arm after raising more than $20 billion in recent months for its digital unit.

Reliance Retail operates Indias largest, fastest growing and most profitable retail business serving close to 640 million footfalls across its nearly 12,000 stores nationwide.

In June, Mubadala invested Rs 9,093 crore in Jio Platforms, the digital services division of RIL. Several of the overseas investors in Jio have now turned their attention to Reliance Retail.

Mubadala typically invests in enterprises that create lasting value and positive economic and social impact in communities at home and overseas, according to its website. Its portfolio companies are spread in sectors such as aerospace, agri business, information and communication technology (ICT), semiconductors, metals and mining, pharmaceutical and medical technology, renewable energy and utilities. It also manages diverse financial holdings.

The transaction is subject to regulatory and other customary approvals.

Disclosure: News18.com is part of Network18 Media & Investment Limited which is owned by Reliance Industries Limited.
The lawyer for the hitman convicted of murdering Florida law professor Dan Markel in 2014 is pointing the finger at one of his co-conspirators, slamming him as a 'lying snitch' who lied in court to save his own skin.

Markel, a prominent criminal justice scholar at Florida State University, was shot twice in the head in his Tallahassee garage on July 18, 2014 in a shocking murder-for-hire plot.

Prosecutors have implied that his murder was coordinated on behalf of relatives of Markel's ex-wife, Wendi Adelson  though no charges were ever brought against the family.

In the twisted contract killing Sigfredo Garcia was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison in November 2019 for shooting Markel.

His childhood friend Luis Rivera testified that he and Garcia were hired for the kill job and drove from South Florida to shoot Markel with Garcia behind the trigger.

Rivera pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in exchange for a 19-year sentence to run concurrently with a sentence on an unrelated case thanks to his cooperation with prosecutors.

But Garcia's lawyer Saam Zangeneh argues that Rivera is lying in the case.

The lawyer for the shooter convicted of murdering a Florida law professor Dan Markel (above) in 2014 says his co-conspirator was behind the brutal killing, but lied in court to land a plea deal

In the twisted contract killing Sigfredo Garcia (left) was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison in November 2019 for shooting Markel. His childhood friend Luis Rivera (right) testified that he and Garcia were hired for the kill job and drove from South Florida to shoot Markel with Garcia behind the trigger

'Riveras story doesnt add up to me. He rented the car, it was his firearm used to kill Dan Markel,' Zangeneh says in a new Dateline special entitled Tallahassee Trap that will air Thursday

'Riveras story doesnt add up to me. He rented the car, it was his firearm used to kill Dan Markel,' Zangeneh says in an exclusive clip shared with DailyMail.com from a new Dateline special entitled Tallahassee Trap that will air Thursday.

Zangeneh says Rivera is the only person who told the court that the gun was in Garcia's hand.

Host Dennis Murphy says in the special, 'Thats a bad story to hear in court.'

'Well, its a bad person telling a bad story,' Zangeneh replies.

Zangeneh told jurors that Rivera lied to the court to save himself and threw Garcia under the bus.

'The only person who can tell you that Sigfredo Garcia got out of the car and reportedly shot Dan Markel is who? The guy who got the deal of a lifetime,' he said in court, adding that Rivera made up the story to cut down his jail time.

Zangeneh slammed Rivera as a 'lying snitch' and said he was the sole person who testified that Garcia was the one to fired the deadly shots

Rivera pictured in court. He pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in exchange for a 19-year sentence to run concurrently with a sentence on an unrelated case thanks to his cooperation with prosecutors

Markel was shot to death after returning home from the gym and dropping off his two young children at day care in the morning.

A witness reported seeing a light colored Prius speed away from the scene and later discovered Markel bleeding, barely alive in his garage.

The car was later traced to Rivera through a rental agreement. Further investigation led authorities to Garcia and Magbanua.

Prosecutors argued that Charlie Adelson, Wendi's brother, arranged to pay Magbanua, Garcia and Rivera $100,000 to kill Markel so his sister Wendi could get full custody of her two children.

Police say the shocking murder-for-hire plot stemmed from Wendi and Markel's bitter divorce. Wendi pictured with their two kids

Markel was shot to death after returning home from the gym and dropping off his two young children at day care in the morning. A witness reported seeing a light colored Prius speed away from the scene and later discovered Markel bleeding, barely alive in his garage

In the case no charges were filed against Markels ex-wife or her family, despite a petition demanding they be called to justice.

Wendi Adelson was not charged in the case, but her brother Charlie and mother Donna were named as 'unindicted conspirators'.

The family has repeatedly denied any connection to the shooting through their lawyers.

Markel and Wendi went through a bitter divorce in 2013 and she was barred from moving to Miami with their two children so they could maintain 50/50 custody of their kids.

Katherine Magbanua is accused of being the mediator between the Adelson family and the killers. She is awaiting retrial on murder charges following a mistrial last year

Magbanua was friends with Wendi and dated her brother Charlie Adelson. Magbanua pictured left with Adelson center

A chart prepared by prosecutors shows the web of relationships the murder suspects have with family members of Markel's ex-wife, whom he was engaged in a custody battle with

Wendi moved her kids to her parents home in Coral Springs after she filed for divorce in 2012 and Markel took the issue to court. In June 2013 a judge denied Adelsons motion for the relocation of her children.

Prosecutors say there is e-mail evidence that Donna Adelson suggested her daughter do things to threaten or bully him into letting Wendi and the kids move away including converting the kids to Catholicism despite being Jewish, but it's unclear if she actually did.

Katherine Magbanua is accused of being the mediator between the family and the killers.

She was friends with Wendi and dated her brother Charlie Adelson.

She was also was Garcias on and off girlfriend and they share two children together.

Magbanua is now awaiting retrial on murder charges following an October 2019 mistrial in her original case, which isnt likely until 2021.

Datelines Tallahassee Trap Airs Thursday, October 1 at 9pm/8pm CT on NBC.
By Tracy Rucinski and David Shepardson CHICAGO/WASHINGTON (Reuters) - American Airlines said it would begin furloughs of 19,000 workers on Thursday, and a large union said other carriers would follow, as hopes faded for a last-minute bailout from Washington. American Airlines Chief Executive Doug Parker told employees in a letter seen by Reuters that he stood ready to reverse the furloughs if a deal was reached. The carrier had more than 140,000 employees before the coronavirus pandemic. That number is expected to be below 100,000 in October, including voluntary and ...
Portland police confirmed a man was found dead Wednesday morning in a Southwest Portland homeless camp.

Officers said they found the persons body around 8:45 a.m. near Southwest Fourth Avenue and Caruthers Street. Police did not immediately identify the man or specify how long he had been dead. They did not say whether the man had been living in the homeless camp.

Police would not comment about the circumstances of the mans death, other than to say homicide detectives responded to the scene. Police would not confirm whether the man was killed. They did say there was no threat to the public, but would not confirm whether they were searching for any suspects or if they had arrested anyone.

This story will be updated.

Jayati Ramakrishnan; 503-221-4320; jramakrishnan@oregonian.com; @JRamakrishnanOR

Subscribe to Oregonian/OregonLive newsletters and podcasts for the latest news and top stories.
Here are the most important things to know about COVID in Connecticut.

This story will be updated regularly with the latest on COVID-19 in Connecticut and beyond. Check back later for more.

Nov. 13

CT announces 2,746 new cases since Thursday

State officials announced 2,746 new COVID cases since Thursday, 42 more hospitalizations and 11 deaths. The positivity rate has risen to 6.7 percent after having decreased to 4.3 percent on Thursday.

Rolling seven-day average of positivity rate continues to climb

According to a CT Insider analysis of the states data, the rolling seven-day average positivity rate has gradually increased each day this week since Monday. On Monday, the rolling seven-day average positivity rate was 4.0 and by today it climbed to 4.7. Although gradual, this change reflects a steady rise in infections.

Research: Parts of Africa may have a history with COVID-19

Researchers at the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme in Kifili, Kenya, found that approximately 4.3 percent of Kenyas population had a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection, the journal Nature reported. Antibody studies revealed that by the end of June, 4 percent of Kenyas population was infected but the death toll remained relatively low in comparison. Their findings suggest that the sharp contrast between Kenyas antibody prevalence and its COVID-19 deaths hints that the coronaviruss effects are dampened in Africa, according to the article.

Missing school may be linked to a shorter life expectancy, analysis shows

An analytical model published by the JAMA Network examined years of life lost in association with primary school closures in early 2020 and compared them to potential years of life lost had schools remained open. The model estimates that closing public schools during the pandemic can be associated with a decrease in life expectancy for American children because of the adverse effects missed education creates. We estimated that there is a 98.1% probability that the decisions to close U.S. primary schools in March of 2020 could be associated with more eventual YLL [years of life lost] than would be observed if these schools had remained open, even if schools remaining open had led to a substantial increase in the rate of death observed during the early phase of the pandemic, the researchers said.

Re-testing should be done carefully, study says

Patients who have recovered from COVID-19 infection should proceed to get repeated testing, but not in the 90 days following infection, the journal JAMA Internal Medicine reported. Not getting re-tested in that time period will help those patients avoid unnecessary quarantines as remnants of the virus may give a false positive if re-tested too soon. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) tests can be positive because of nonviable remnants of the virus, the article says. This means that the test cannot accurately determine whether or not the infection can be transmitted.

Nov. 12

COVID hospitalizations surpass 600 in Connecticut

State officials announced 33 more coronavirus hospitalizations since Wednesday raising the total to 617 patients currently hospitalized. In a press conference, Gov. Lamont expressed concern. We've doubled the number of people in the hospitals in the last two weeks, he said.

CT reports another 1,158 cases since Wednesday

Connecticut announced 1,158 new COVID cases since Wednesday amounting to a total of 85,899 cases since the onset of the pandemic. The daily positivity rate slightly increased to 4.8 percent. The state announced 10 more deaths for a total of 4,726.

Changes in smell can help predict COVID outbreaks, researchers say

Its been known for a while that loss of smell and taste are early symptoms of the coronavirus. Now a team from Penn State is showing that self-reports of changes in smell and taste can predict COVID outbreak. Our research suggests that an increase in the incidence of sudden smell and taste change in the general population may indicate that COVID-19 is spreading, One researcher said. This knowledge could help decision-makers take important measures at the local level, either in catching new outbreaks sooner, or in guiding the relaxation of local lockdowns, given the strong impact of lockdown on economic and social activities.

Poll finds that two-thirds of Americans support a one-month lockdown

Results from a poll conducted by YouGov suggest that nearly two thirds of Americans would support a one-month lockdown to limit the spread of the coronavirus. About 64 percent of the 13,000 U.S. adults surveyed said they would support a lockdown, while three out of 10 said they would not. Broken down by party, more Democrats  87 percent  said they would support a lockdown, compared to 30 percent of Republicans.

Yale supervises national rollout of new, cheap COVID test

A team from Yale University is supervising a national rollout of a cheaper coronavirus test. The SalivaDirect retails for about $25, and was developed by Yales Anne Wyllie, associate research scientist in epidemiology, and Nathan Grubaugh, assistant professor in epidemiology. The test is also saliva-based, and not nasopharyngeal, which makes it less invasive.

Nov. 11

CT now averaging more than 1,000 cases a day

As of Monday, Connecticut is averaging more than 1,000 new coronavirus cases a day, a level not seen since April 26. There have been more than 1,000 new cases reported by the state every day this week. The highest number of average daily cases since the pandemic began was April 22, when there were an average of 1,102 new cases. It is important to note, however, that many of these cases may be asymptomatic. Early in the pandemic, the state was conducting significantly fewer tests, and then only on patients displaying symptoms consistent with a coronavirus infection. More recently, the state has ramped up testing, which may be identifying a significantly larger number of positive cases.

COVID cases continue to climb in CT: 1,574 new cases reported

The state announced 1,574 new COVID cases Wednesday and 36 new hospitalizations bringing the number of patients currently hospitalized for the virus to a total of 584. Nine more deaths were reported raising the cumulative amount to 4,716 deceased. The positivity rate is 4.7 percent, a decrease from a high of 6.7 percent on Tuesday.

Entitled people are less likely to comply with COVID guidelines, research says

Are you entitled? If you have a sense of entitlement, youre less likely to comply with COVID-19 guidelines, according to a survey of three studies conducted by researchers from Cornell University. Not only were people higher in psychological entitlement more likely to believe that the threat of the virus was overblown, but they were also more likely to report that they had contracted COVID-19.

Cell phone data uncovers superspreader locations for COVID infections

Using cell phone data, researchers mapped what they called mobility networks, tracking and mapping the hourly movements of 98 million people from major metro areas across the United States as they went to and from points of interest like restaurants and religious establishments. They found that a small minority of superspreader [points of interest) account for a large majority of infections. The study, published this week in the journal Nature, also suggests that restricting occupancy at specific points of interest would be more effective than uniformly reducing mobility.

Researchers find rapid COVID tests to be about 99 percent accurate

Researchers went to a public plaza in San Francisco and tested the Abbott Labs rapid coronavirus test on 878 subjects, and found that it was spot on about 99 percent of the time, producing a false positive only very rarely. Connecticut has been expected to receive thousands of the $5, 15-minute tests, as Gov. Ned Lamont announced in October. The tests were accurate regardless of symptoms, researchers said.

Nov. 10

CT positivity rate jumps to 6.7 percent with 1,524 new cases reported

Connecticut announced 1,524 new coronavirus cases Tuesday, substantially raising the one-day positivity rate (the percentage of tests that are positive) to 6.7 percent. There were 52 new hospitalizations, for a total of 548 COVID patients currently in the hospital, and nine more deaths, bringing the total number of COVID-related deaths in the state to 4,707 since the start of the pandemic.

40 percent of COVID-19 patients experience severe ringing in the ears

A sizeable portion of people with COVID-19 experience exacerbated tinnitus (ringing in the ears), according to new research. An international group of researchers found that 40 percent of people with symptomatic COVID-19 said theyre tinnitus got worse. The good news is that 6 percent said their tinnitus got a little better, and 54 percent said there was no change. Lockdowns may have had an effect, too, according to the study: Pre-existing tinnitus was significantly exacerbated for those self-isolating, experiencing loneliness, sleeping poorly and with reduced levels of exercise. Increased depression, anxiety, irritability, and financial worries further significantly contributed to tinnitus being more bothersome during the pandemic period.

Respiratory illnesses becoming less common during the pandemic may not be a good thing

There has been a much lower incidence of common respiratory illnesses (like RSV and the flu) during the pandemic, but researchers at Princeton University said that it wasnt necessarily good news. As NPIs (non-pharmaceutical interventions, like masks and social distancing) are in place, people could become more susceptible to these common diseases, resulting in a stronger comeback. While this reduction in cases could be interpreted as a positive side effect of COVID-19 prevention, the reality is much more complex, study author Rachel Baker said. Our results suggest that susceptibility to these other diseases, such as RSV and flu, could increase while NPIs are in place, resulting in large outbreaks when they begin circulating again.

Existing drugs can curb an influx of cytokine that is a factor in COVID-19 deaths

A cytokine storm is the human bodys immune response to infection. Its when the immune system goes awry, causing all sorts of inflammation  so much so that it is one of the reasons people die from a COVID-19 infection. A new study shows that two chemicals in particular are responsible for generating that cytokine storm, as Science News reported, and that existing drugs might help curb that effect. Its worked in mice, but immunologist Thirumala-Devi Kanneganti said whether or not it will work in humans is another question. I know my colleagues have cured mouse COVID, he told Science News. But most of the time when you do the trials in people, they turn out to be negative.

Working from home has potential health benefits

A report from the CDC suggests that working from home has some potential health benefits. The findings suggests that, of the COVID-19 patients sampled, patients were more likely to test positive for a coronavirus infection if they had gone in-person to work or school, suggesting that alternative methods are preferable. Most community exposures were not associated with teleworking, the CDC said.

Nov. 9

3,338 new cases since Friday and 94 new hospitalizations

Connecticut announced 3,338 new coronavirus cases Monday, raising the positivity rate (the percentage of tests that are positive) to 3.7 percent. There were 94 additional hospitalizations, for a total of 496 COVID patients currently in the hospital, and 27 more deaths, bringing the total number of COVID-related deaths in the state to 4,698 since the start of the pandemic.

Bridgeport and Hartford averaging over 50 new cases a day

Bridgeport and Hartford continue to average a relatively high number of cases per day according to a CT Insider analysis of data. Bridgeport is averaging 59 new cases and Hartford averages 52. Stamford has the third-highest rolling seven-day average of Connecticuts largest cities, with approximately 42 new cases a day.

58 percent of Europeans would take COVID vaccine

Only 58 percent of people in Europe said they will take a coronavirus vaccine, according to new research, well below the threshold needed to generate herd immunity. Thats a problem, and education is the answer, according to researchers: Only by educating the general public about the benefits, safety and efficacy of vaccines can we hope to avoid the unnecessary prolongation of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Antibodies found in camels used to neutralize COVID virus

Scientists have synthesized so-called nanobodies (very small antibodies) found in camelids (camels and llamas) to create an ultrapotent treatment for the coronavirus. The aerosol can actually neutralize the virus, according to researchers.

Air pollution creates higher risk of death for COVID patients

Air pollution may be linked to COVID deaths in the United States, according to new research. This is the first study that provides some consistent evidence that, if youre living in a [U.S.] county with a higher level of fine particulate matter, it increases the risk of covid mortality, Harvards Francesca Dominici told the New Scientist. The effect is not insignificant: For every microgram of particulate matter the COVID-19 mortality rate increased by 11 percent, the study says.

Nov. 6

Another 1,000 COVID cases in a single day

Connecticut announced Friday an additional 1,065 confirmed cases of the coronavirus, with a positivity rate (the percentage of tests that are positive) of 3.6 percent. There were 22 additional hospitalizations, for a total of 402 COVID patients currently in the hospital, and 15 more deaths, bringing the total number of COVID-related deaths in the state to 4,671.

CDC lifts no-sail order for cruise ships (with one caveat)

The CDC has lifted its no-sail order, giving cruise ships the green light to sail again, with one important caveat: No passengers. In April, the CDC issued a no-sail order, and maintains that cruise ships pose a greater threat to disease transmission than other settings. But now the agency has issued a phased approach to resumption of activities, starting with simulated voyages designed to test cruise ship operators ability to mitigate COVID-19, followed by a return to passenger operations after certification.

Danish minks could pose COVID threat to humans

A coronavirus mutation found in Danish minks has already infected 214 people in Denmark, according to local news sources. The mutated virus variant reportedly has a lower resistance to antibodies, making potential vaccines less effective, according to the Danish prime minister. We have a great responsibility towards our own population, but with the mutation that has now been found, we have an even greater responsibility for the rest of the world as well, Mette Frederiksen said this week.

Masks dont inhibit oxygen during exercise, research says

Canadian researchers have found that wearing a facemask does not reduce the bodys ability to get oxygen during exercise. In terms of oxygen levels in the blood or muscles, No differences were evident between wearing or not wearing a mask, according to the study, published this week by researchers at the University of Saskatchewan. Wearing a face mask during vigorous exercise had no discernable detrimental effect on blood or muscle oxygenation, and exercise performance in young, healthy participants.

Study says wealthier people were able to socially distance more

A study was published this week in the journal Nature showing that wealthier people are more likely to practice social distancing. Residents of low-income neighborhoods were more likely to work outside the home, compared to residents in higher-income neighborhoods, the study says.

Nov. 5

CT reports over 1,100 new cases in a single day

Connecticut announced 1,157 new coronavirus cases on Nov. 5, 10 more deaths and six new hospitalizations for a total of 380 patients currently in the hospital. The positivity rate has lowered to 3.7 percent.

Asymptomatic COVID patients may be contagious for longer periods of time

Usually, people who test positive for the coronavirus but do not have any symptoms remain contagious for about eight days. As reported by the journal Cell, one woman was contagious for more than 70 days, raising more questions about how the disease operates. The patient, a woman in her 70s, is a leukemia patient, which is why they kept checking her blood for the virus, and which may have something to do with why she remained infectious for so long. Researchers said they expect to see more cases like this in the future.

Rutgers: Workers in support roles have higher risk of contracting COVID

Hospital workers are at greater risk of catching the coronavirus than the general public, and specifically those in support roles, according to the latest research from the Rutgers School of Public Health. Its not necessarily those in patient-facing roles who are more at risk: Phlebotomists, maintenance workers and housekeepers, and food services workers were specifically found to be at risk.

COVID corpses show extensive lung damage

A study in the journal Lancet uses postmortem examination of the lungs of COVID-19 patients to show how the disease attacks the body. This kind of study may shed light on so-called long COVID, researchers said. COVID-19 is a unique disease characterized by extensive lung thrombosis, the study said. Several of COVID-19 features might be consequent to the persistence of virus-infected cells for the duration of the disease.

Coronavirus on surfaces can provide warning sign of infection surges, research shows

Research from Tufts University shows that many surfaces carry coronavirus RNA, but not much of it. A team of researchers sampled 33 surfaces in public places, and found that All samples showed only low-level contamination, and the infection risk from touching one of the contaminated surfaces is low, according to an article in the journal Nature. The authors also found that sampling heavily touched surfaces might provide a warning of a surge of infections.

Nov. 4

CT reports 530 new cases, positivity rate slightly lowers

Connecticut announced 530 new coronavirus cases on Nov. 4, 11 more deaths and seven fewer hospitalizations for a total of 374 patients currently in the hospital. The positivity rate has slightly lowered to 4.2 percent.

New Haven sees fewer new cases than other major cities in CT

New Haven has a significantly lower average of new coronavirus cases than other large Connecticut cities. Since September, New Haven has averaged 12 new COVID-19 cases each day, according to a CT Insider analysis of state data. By contrast, Hartford has averaged nearly 30 new cases a day during the same time period. Danbury and Bridgeport are averaging about 22 and 24 new cases each day, respectively, while Stamford is averaging nearly 19 new cases each day.

Was COVID here before March?

COVID may have been circulating locally for longer than we think. This study suggests that the coronavirus was present in New York City long before the first case was identified on March 1. It also shows that the virus is about 10 times more deadly than the flu. The studys authors found seropositive samples as early as mid-February in patients at New Yorks Mount Sinai Hospital.

Superspreaders impact is outsized, study says

How important are superspreading events? Very, according to researchers from MIT. Superspreaders, infected individuals who result in an outsized number of secondary cases, are believed to underlie a significant fraction of total SARS-CoV-2 transmission, according to a study published this week. These events have a fat tail, the study shows, resulting in the spread of disease long after the events themselves. Researchers suggest that controlling superspreading events should be a focus: Our findings indicate that large superspreading events should be the targets of interventions that minimize tail exposure.

Pregnant women more likely to die from COVID: CDC

Pregnant women with the coronavirus are more likely to have a severe infection, according to the CDC. An analysis of 400,000 women with symptomatic COVID-19 infections showed that intensive care unit admission, invasive ventilation, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and death were more likely in pregnant women than in nonpregnant women. How much more likely? The analysis showed that pregnant women were nearly four times as likely to need invasive ventilation and twice as likely to die as women who were not pregnant.

Nov. 2

CT reports 2,651 new COVID cases since Friday

Connecticut announced 2,651 new coronavirus cases on Nov. 2, 11 more deaths and 11 new hospitalizations for a total of 340 patients currently in the hospital. The positivity rate has increased to 3.3 percent.

CDC: People can still vote if sick or quarantining within guidelines

The CDC has released guidelines for in-person voting on Nov. 3. In an email to CNN, the CDC confirmed that someone who is currently recovering from COVID-19 or quarantining from being exposed to the virus, can still vote. Any such voter is encouraged to wear a mask, stay at least 6 feet away from others and wash their hands or use hand sanitizer before and after voting. These voters are also urged to notify poll workers of their condition or quarantine status.

Diabetes patients with metabolic syndrome at risk for severe COVID

You are much more likely to die from a COVID-19 infection if you suffer from metabolic syndrome, a disease associated with type 2 diabetes, according to a series of recent research. A study of metabolic syndrome and COVID-19 mortality among a group of adult Black patients found that metabolic syndrome was significantly associated with increased mortality, admission to an intensive care unit, invasive mechanical ventilation and acute respiratory distress syndrome.

Construction workers at high risk of contracting COVID, research suggests

Construction workers may be at significant risk of catching the coronavirus, specifically if construction work continues during lockdowns. Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin found that resuming construction work during shelter-in-place orders was associated with increased hospitalization risks in the construction workforce and increased transmission in the surrounding community. Among the cohort in central Texas researchers studied, construction workers were five times more likely to be hospitalized.

DETECT study: Smartwatches can detect a COVID infection

Early results from research called the DETECT study has found that a computer using information obtained from smartwatches and other wearable technology can accurately detect a COVID-19 infection. The study is a big one  30,529 people, of whom 3,811 reported coronavirus symptoms. Its accurate, but not a panacea, as the study itself says: Such a passive monitoring strategy may be complementary to virus testing, which is generally a one-off, or infrequent, sampling assay. But it may be an important step, representing the transitioning of research from a dependence on brick and mortar research centers to a remote, direct-to-participant approach now possible through a range of digital technologies.

Oct. 30

CT positivity rate drops to 2.5 percent and 761 new cases reported

Connecticut announced 761 new coronavirus cases on Friday, seven more deaths and eight new hospitalizations for a total of 329 patients currently in the hospital. The positivity rate has sharply dropped to 2.5 percent after surpassing six percent on Oct. 29.

Study finds 20 percent of grocery employees infected

A study has found a high rate of asymptomatic COVID infections among grocery store workers. Published in the journal Occupational & Environmental Medicine, the study found that one out of every five of the grocery store workers tested were positive for coronavirus. Of those who tested positive, 76 percent were asymptomatic, and 91 percent had roles in the store that put them in contact with customers.

Bad air can linger for 5 hours, researchers say

Ventilation matters a lot, according to a study published last week in the British Journal of Anaesthesia. Aerosolized particles can remain in the air for more than five hours in a room with low ventilation rate, suggesting that hospital rooms with COVID-positive patients should be considered contaminated for extended durations after aerosol-generating procedures have been performed, the study said, since it has been shown that airborne SARS-CoV-2 remains viable for at least hours.

One patient at summer camp infects 118 people: CDC

A single COVID-positive patient infected 118 people at a summer camp in Wisconsin, according to the CDC. That patient tested negative a week before attending the camp, but developed symptoms and tested positive shortly after arriving. The result, the CDC said, was 76 percent of the people at the overnight camp, hailing from 21 states and two foreign countries, later tested positive. According to the CDC, this case demonstrates the need for pre-arrival quarantine and testing, cohorting, symptom monitoring, early identification and isolation of cases, mask use and enhanced hygiene and disinfection practices.

FDA considering expanded access process for COVID vaccines

The FDA announced that it is in the early stages of considering whether to use expanded access to distribute a potential Covid-19 vaccine, CNN reported. Expanded access is not an approval process, but rather a method to move along the process of approving an investigational medical product, like a vaccine. The process has been used before for vaccines, just not for a massive distribution that would be needed with a COVID-19 vaccine, according to CNN.

Oct. 29

CT positivity rate hits six percent and over 1300 new cases reported

Connecticut announced 1,319 new coronavirus cases on Thursday, five more deaths and 12 new hospitalizations. The positivity rate has significantly jumped to 6 percent.

Research suggests schools may not be COVID hot spots

Data from worldwide research is showing that schools may not be COVID hot spots. Despite fears, COVID-19 infections did not surge when schools and day-care centres reopened after pandemic lockdowns eased. And when outbreaks do occur, they mostly result in only a small number of people becoming ill, the journal Nature reported. Outbreaks in schools were found to be uncommon, even in places where infections were rising.

Decreased death rates could change if hospitals reach capacity again, a study suggests

Death rates are down, but that could change if hospitals reach capacity again, according to a study from researchers at Britains University of Exeter Medical School. In late March, four in 10 people in intensive care were dying. By the end of June, survival was over 80 percent, John M. Dennis told The New York Times. Dennis research showed that a better understanding for how the disease should be treated has played an important role in declining death rates, but also a falling critical care burden, the study said.

Harvard study: Flying in an airplane may be safer than grocery shopping

Flying in an airplane may be safer than grocery shopping or eating out, according to a study published Tuesday from researchers at Harvard Universitys school of public health. The risk of COVID transmission on a plane will be below that found in other routine activities during the pandemic, such as grocery shopping or eating out, the study said, though with a few caveats. There needs to be a multi-layered approach in order to keep passengers and employees safe, including wearing face masks, disinfection of surfaces and maintenance of appropriate ventilation gate-to-gate.

CDC: College students contract COVID because of failure to follow protocols

College students are getting COVID because they are not following standard protocols, according to the CDC. Following an investigation into 17 COVID cases at a Chicago college, the CDC determined that Colleges and universities are at risk for COVID-19 outbreaks because of shared housing and social gatherings where recommended prevention guidance is not followed. The Chicago Department of Public Health was notified in August of a cluster of COVID-19 cases among a universitys mens and womens soccer teams. That cluster, the CDC said, was the result of several events, including a birthday party and an unsanctioned game between the mens and womens teams.

Oct. 28

CT reports 17 new hospitalizations, decrease in positivity rate

Connecticut announced 490 new coronavirus cases on Wednesday, nine more deaths and 17 new hospitalizations. The positivity rate has decreased to 3.4 percent from the previous high of 4.1 percent announced Tuesday.

New cases in Bridgeport have doubled, on average

In the last three days Bridgeports seven-day rolling average of new cases has nearly doubled, according to a CT Insider analysis of state data. The average of 40 new cases is the highest it has been in months. Bridgeports rise in cases mirrors the overall surge in the state.

Long-term exposure to air pollution tied to COVID-19 deaths: report

A study from the journal Cardiovascular Research found that long-term exposure to air pollution may be linked to 15 percent of COVID-19 deaths globally, as Aljazeera reported. Evidence suggests that in East Asia 27 percent of COVID-19 deaths could be tied to effects of poor air quality. The deaths linked to COVID-19 and air pollution presented a potentially avoidable, excess mortality, researchers said.

Study: Some antibodies attack body instead of COVID-19 virus

Some antibodies produced during a COVID-19 infection attack the body, as opposed to the virus, according to a study published by MicroB-plex, Inc., last week. Some patients bodies are producing so-called autoantibodies, which happens with diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. The research may be helpful in understanding in the increasingly documented cases of lingering COVID-19, researchers wrote.

Flu shots may help prevent COVID-19 infections, research suggests

A flu shot might help prevent a COVID infection according to new research. The research is preliminary, but scientists at Radboud University Medical Center in the Netherlands found that health care workers who had received a flu shot were 39 percent less likely to test positive for COVID-19, as Scientific American reported. As of June 1, 2.23 percent of the health care workers studied who did not get vaccinated against the flu tested positive, while 1.33 percent of those who got a flu shot tested positive for COVID.

Oct. 27

6 deaths, 538 new cases in a day

Connecticut announced 538 new coronavirus cases on Tuesday, six more deaths and 22 new hospitalizations.

CT positivity rate up to 4.1 percent, highest rate since June

Gov. Ned Lamont announced Tuesday that the infection rate is up to 4.1 percent. This is the highest Connecticut has had since June. The rolling seven-day average positivity rate has risen every day for the last week, accumulating to an average of 2.5 percent today.

CDC: Six percent of adults hospitalized with COVID-19 are health care providers

Between March and the end of May, 6 percent of adults hospitalized with COVID-19 were health care providers, according to the CDC. Of those health care providers hospitalized with COVID, most, 73 percent, were obese. About 36 percent were nurses, 16 percent of them needed to be mechanically ventilated and 4 percent of those health care providers hospitalized with a COVID infection died.

COVID antibodies providing immunity dont last, according to a study

Antibodies associated with immunity from the coronavirus dont last, according to a study from the Imperial College London. Using a finger prick test to detect antibodies in the blood, researchers found that the number of people testing positive dropped by 26.5 percent between June 20 and Sept. 28. These findings suggest that immunity wont last more than a few months in some cases, but Helen Ward, one of the lead researchers in the study, was reluctant to draw that conclusion explicitly: We dont yet know whether this will leave these people at risk of reinfection with the virus that causes COVID-19, but it is essential that everyone continues to follow guidance to reduce the risk to themselves and others.

Researcher suggests coronavirus may increase risk for Parkinsons disease

Coronavirus may increase risk of Parkinsons disease, according to a commentary published last week in the journal Trends in Neurosciences. "Evidence is mounting that the side effects of COVID-19 infection, such as inflammation and damage to the vascular system, could lay the foundation for development of Parkinson's disease, researcher Patrik Brundin told Science Daily. COVID-19 is clearly a major and ongoing public health threat, but the consequences of infection may end up being with us for years and decades to come.

Oct. 26

Over 2,000 cases and 37 new hospitalizations in three days

Connecticut announced 2,047 new coronavirus cases Monday, 12 more deaths and 37 new hospitalizations. The positivity rate (the percentage of total tests that are positive) has decreased to 2.2 percent from 2.9 percent on Oct. 23.

Mayo Clinic: More physically fit patients are less likely to be hospitalized for COVID

Exercise matters, according to research published by the Mayo Clinic. The more physically fit a patient was in the years prior to catching COVID, the less likely they were to be hospitalized, according to the study. As the study concludes, Maximal exercise capacity is independently and inversely associated with the likelihood of hospitalization due to COVID-19.

Study: Lockdowns affect health in both good and bad ways

What is being called a first-of-its-kind global study showed that lockdows significantly affected peoples health, in both bad and good ways. People cooked more and often ate healthier, but their mental states were adversely affected by community-wide lockdowns. The stay-at-home orders did result in one major health positive. Overall, healthy eating increased because we ate out less frequently. However, we snacked more. We got less exercise. We went to bed later and slept more poorly. Our anxiety levels doubled, said Leanne Redman, PhD, Associate Executive Director for Scientific Education at Pennington Biomedical Research Center.

Predictions show CT to have 6,000 to 9,000 COVID deaths by February

The Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, has released predictions for COVID-related deaths by state through the end of February. The most likely trajectory in Connecticut is somewhere between 6,000 and 9,000 deaths from the coronavirus, an increase of more than 1,000 in the next four months at the low-end. Nationwide, if 95 percent of the population wore masks, it would be the difference between 1,053,206 total deaths by the end of February and 381,798 total COVID deaths, according to the IHME.

NonCOVID-19 hospitalizations decrease during pandemic peaks, study says

A study published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine found a substantial decrease in the number of nonCOVID-19 hospitalizations across a range of diagnoses during the peak COVID-19 period. There were less hospitalizations for injuries, worsening of chronic conditions and medical events requiring inpatient care. The study attributes the decrease to three things: patients avoiding emergency care over fear of COVID-19, loss of health insurance, increased threshold for hospitalization and changes in patient lifestyle because of social distancing.

Oct. 23

CT positivity rate increases to 2.9 percent

On Oct. 23, Connecticut announced 679 new cases, eight more deaths and one new hospitalization. The positivity rate (the percentage of total tests that are positive) has increased to 2.9 percent from when it was 2.2 percent on Oct. 22. In the last seven days the positivity rate has fluctuated, but shown a general uptick where on six of those seven days the positivity rate is above two percent.

WHO: No normalcy for at least a year

The World Health Organizations chief science officer said this week that the world wont go back to some measure of normalcy for at least a year, even if a vaccine is approved and administered. Were looking at 2022, at least, before enough people start getting the vaccine to build immunity, Dr. Soumya Swaminathan said during a media briefing. So, for a long time to come, we have to maintain the same kind of measures that are currently being put in place with physical distancing, the masking and respiratory hygiene.

Oxford vaccine creates strong response to COVID-19

The coronavirus vaccine being developed by Oxford University creates a strong immunity response, according to researchers at the University of Bristol, as British news source Metro reported. Vaccines usually inject tiny bits of a pathogen  in this case, the vaccine instructs the body to create the relevant protein itself, and it appears to work. This is an important study as we are able to confirm that the genetic instructions underpinning this vaccine, which is being developed as fast as safely possible, are correctly followed when they get into a human cell, said David Matthews, from Bristols School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine.

Researchers: Age does not determine if you contract COVID-19 or not

A group of Japanese researchers have determined that age has nothing to do with susceptibility to the coronavirus, according to research published in the journal Nature. Their mathematical model shows that age does affect severity of infection, but how old you are has nothing to do with whether or not you catch the virus in the first place.

Study: Mismanagement of pandemic led to more deaths

A study from the National Center for Disaster Preparedness at Columbia University estimated how many deaths the United States could have prevented if it had mirrored the policies and responses in six other high-income nations, namely South Korea, Japan, Australia, Germany, Canada and France. In the U.S., the death rate is 66.33 for every 100,000 people. Had The United States adopted strategies similar to those in the other countries studied, at least 130,000 fewer people would have died, according to the studys authors. By contrasting the U.S. proportional mortality rate with that of six other high-income countries, this report highlights the stark reality that is the United States continued mismanagement of the pandemic response, the study says.

Oct. 22

Connecticut reports 502 new cases

On Oct. 22, Connecticut announced 502 new cases, two more deaths and 19 new hospitalizations. The positivity rate (the percentage of total tests that are positive) has slightly decreased to 2.2 percent from 2.6 percent on Oct. 21.

Rolling 7-day average of positivity rate is steadily climbing

The rolling seven-day average for the positivity rate in Connecticut is on an uptick. In the last week, the average has steadily increased.

CDC: COVID can be spread during brief encounters

The CDC has said COVID-19 can be passed from one host to another during even brief encounters, as Stat news reported, prompting the agency to redefine terms. The CDC had defined a close contact as spending 15 minutes or more within 6 feet of someone else. Now its cumulative  you just need to spend a total of 15 minutes or more of the course of a 24-hour period within 6 feet of someone who was infectious.

Brazilian health officials: Patient dies in AstraZeneca COVID vaccine trial

Brazilian health officials have said that a patient involved in the vaccine trial run by AstraZeneca and Oxford University has died, as reported by The Wall Street Journal. It was not made clear if the patient had been administered the trial vaccine or was in the control group. The patient was reported to be a man in his 20s and was from Rio de Janeiro.

Russia is promoting COVID disinformation: ABC News

An internal U.S. intelligence bulletin reportedly obtained by ABC News says Russia is continuing to actively promote disinformation related to the coronavirus. Dated Oct. 19, the bulletin said those efforts have increased in pace since the start of the month. Russia continues to spread COVID-19 disinformation and conspiracy theories that have the greatest potential to impact U.S. public health efforts, the bulletin says, according to ABC News.

Oct. 21

State logs 416 new COVID cases

The percent of total coronavirus tests that were positive dropped slightly Wednesday, from 3 percent to 2.6 percent. The state added an additional 416 coronavirus cases, and eight new COVID-associated deaths. Four fewer people were hospitalized with COVID-19 infections Wednesday, according to data released by the state.

Hartford averages twice the new cases seen in other CT cities

The rolling seven-day average of new coronavirus cases in Hartford is double that in other major cities in Connecticut, according to a CT Insider analysis of state data. For the last seven days, Hartford has averaged 43 new cases per day. By comparison, Bridgeport is averaging 23 new cases per day. Danbury, which was considered to be having a coronavirus surge earlier this fall, is averaging 16 new cases per day.

CDC: Over 200,000 excess deaths during pandemic

The CDC said this week that there have been 299,028 so-called excess deaths during the course of the pandemic in the United States, significantly more than the 216,000 deaths directly attributed to COVID-19. Excess deaths are the number of deaths above the average for the time period, and are considered a good way to estimate the true loss of life from the pandemic.

Study: 71.5 percent of people open to take a COVID-19 vaccine

Globally, 71.5 percent of people would be somewhat likely to take a COVID-19 vaccine, according to a study published this week in the journal Nature. The research asked 13,426 people in 19 countries their feelings on the subject of vaccines, and found a wide range nation to nation. In China, almost 90 percent of people said they would take a vaccine, compared to only 55 percent in Russia. In the United States, 75.42 percent of people answered yes to the question, If a COVID-19 vaccine is proven safe and effective and is available, I will take it.

American Academy of Pediatrics: CT children have lower COVID-19 infection rates than other states

The percent and number of kids with COVID-19 is lower in Connecticut than in most other states, according to a study released by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Nationwide, 10.9 percent of all coronavirus cases were among people aged 18 and under. In Wyoming, nearly 30 percent of all cases were among children, compared to about 4.3 percent in New York City and New Jersey. Connecticut saw less than 10 percent of all COVID cases among children, below the 11 percent median.

Oct. 20

CT positivity rate leaps to 3.0 percent

On Oct. 20, Connecticut announced 434 new cases, five more deaths and 22 new hospitalizations. The positivity rate (the percentage of total tests that are positive) has jumped to 3 percent from 1.7 percent on Oct. 19. This is the highest it has been since June.

COVID-19 vaccine may be ready for approval by December

The CEO of pharmaceutical manufacturer Moderna said a coronavirus vaccine should be ready for approval by December. Stephane Bancel, speaking to the Wall Street Journal, said that authorization might not happen until early next year. Moderna is one of four drugmakers in late-stage coronavirus vaccine trials.

Straits Times: University developing COVID-19 breathalyzer test

The National University of Singapore is developing a COVID-19 breathalyzer test, the Straits Times reported. Theres only been a pilot of 180 patients so far, but the test returned results in less than a minute and was shown to be 90 percent accurate. "Results are generated in real time, making it an attractive solution for mass screening, especially in areas with high human traffic, one researcher said.

Study: Nasal and oral rinses may deactivate coronavirus

Results from a Penn State College of Medicine study suggest that some nasal and oral rinses may inactivate coronaviruses. Listerine, for example, actually reduced the viral load under laboratory conditions, as did CVS Antiseptic Mouth Wash and others. The key may be how long you rinse your mouth, researchers said. One minute or more actually made a significant difference. Most of the common overthecounter mouth washes/gargles tested demonstrated at least a 90 percent reduction in infectious virus at one minute of contract time with the majority of products showing increasing virucidal activity with longer contact times, the study said.

UK vaccine trial moves toward human challenge trial

A UK vaccine trial announced it will begin a COVID-19 human challenge trial in January, the journal Nature reported. The trial is aimed at accelerating COVID-19 vaccine development in hopes of potentially ending the pandemic. But the prospect of deliberately infecting people  even those at low risk of severe disease  with SARS-CoV-2, a deadly pathogen that has few proven treatments, is uncharted medical and bioethical territory, the journal stated.

Oct. 19

CT COVID-19 deaths and hospitalizations rise

On Oct. 19, the State of Connecticut announced 1,191 new cases, 12 more deaths and 11 new hospitalizations. The positivity rate (the percentage of total tests that are positive) has decreased to 1.7. percent from 2.4 percent on Oct. 16.

Study shows organ damage in some hospitalized COVID patients

A new study of patients who have been in the hospital with a COVID infection suggests a potential link between chronic inflammation and ongoing organ damage among survivors, as Reuters reports. About 60 percent of patients showed abnormalities of the lungs, 29 percent had kidney issues, 26 percent had heart problems and 10 percent had abnormalities in the liver.

CVS is hiring 15,000 workers to help handle vaccines

CVS is adding 15,000 workers across the United States to handle vaccinations for both the flu and a potential rollout of a coronavirus vaccine, the company said in a statement. Were estimating a much greater need for trained pharmacy technicians this year given the continued presence of COVID-19 in our communities, said Lisa Bisaccia, CVS chief human resources officer.

Notre Dame: Virus-related lockdowns prevent thousands of deaths linked to pollution

A study from researchers at Notre Dame University showed that virus-related lockdowns in China and Europe prevented tens of thousands of deaths related to pollution. Researcher Paola Crippa and her colleagues looked at the average number of deaths associated with pollution, the number of similar deaths that happened during pandemic lockdowns and the decrease in airborne particulate matter. The study estimated that 24,200 deaths associated with particulate matter were prevented in China, and another 2,190 pollution-related deaths were avoided in Europe, compared to the average.

WHO trial finds that COVID-19 associated drugs did not clearly impact patient outcomes

The WHO Solidarity trial found that four drugs  Remdesivir, Hydroxychloroquine, Lopinavir and Interferon  have have little or no effect, on hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Research found that none of these drugs clearly reduced mortality, initiation of ventilation or hospitalization duration.

Oct. 16

CT Positivity rate drastically jumps to 2.4 percent

On Oct. 16, the State of Connecticut announced 802 new cases, two more deaths and no new hospitalizations. The positivity rate (the percentage of total tests that are positive) increased to 2.4 percent from 1.3 percent on Oct. 15.

Rolling seven-day average for positivity rate is at 1.7 percent

The rolling seven-day positivity rate average is at 1.7 percent, its highest in weeks according to a CT Insider analysis of state data. The positivity rate jumped to 2.4 percent on Oct. 16 from previously being at 1.3 percent on Oct. 15. For the past week, the average has varied between 1.3 and 1.5 percent until today.

Large Thanksgiving parties are a risk: Dr. Anthony Fauci

Dr. Anthony Fauci has said that families need to reconsider having large Thanksgiving parties. "That is unfortunately a risk, when you have people coming from out of town, gathering together in an indoor setting," Fauci, the nations leading expert on infectious diseases, told CBS news. "It is unfortunate, because that's such a sacred part of American tradition  the family gathering around Thanksgiving. But that is a risk."

Politico: Pfizer will not seek vaccine approval until after election

Pfizer, one of four U.S. drug manufacturers in late-stage coronavirus vaccine testing, said that it wont seek authorization for a vaccine until after the election. "Let me be clear, assuming positive data, Pfizer will apply for Emergency Authorization Use in the U.S. soon after the safety milestone is achieved in the third week of November," the companys CEO wrote, as Politico reported.

CDC releases guidelines for COVID testing in schools

The CDC has released interim guidelines for coronavirus testing in schools. The guidance goes into detail on the types of testing, when testing is and is not recommended for students and staff, and which schools (and which people within schools) to prioritize testing. The agency made it clear that these are just guidelines, not mandates: These considerations are for testing in school settings and are intended for K-12 school administrators working in collaboration with their state, tribal, local, and territorial public health officials.

Oct. 15

CT positivity rate decreases to 1.3 percent

On Oct. 15, the State of Connecticut announced 213 new cases, three more deaths and three new hospitalizations. The positivity rate (the percentage of total tests that are positive) decreased to 1.3 percent from a high of 2.4 percent on Oct. 13.

Coronavirus strain infecting pigs in China could spread to humans

A related coronavirus that has torn through the pig population in China (Its called swine acute diarrhea syndrome, or SADS) has the potential to jump to humans, according to researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The good news is that, "It is impossible to predict if this virus, or a relative of it, could emerge and infect human populations, as one reseracher said. However, it has been shown to replicate in human cells, which demonstrates potential risk for future emergence events in human and animal populations."

Research shows coronavirus travels through the air in different ways

Researchers have modelled how the coronavirus is transmitted via droplets and in aerosolized form, and suggest that it moves from host to host in different ways depending on the humidity in the air. UC Santa Barbara researchers say that ability to be transmitted in both droplets and aerosolized form may be why the virus did not abate in the summer as some researchers thought it might. We found that in most situations, respiratory droplets travel longer distances than the 6-foot social distance recommended by the CDC, researcher Yanying Zhu said.

Oxford University scientists developed a 5-minute COVID test

Scientists at Oxford University have developed a 5-minute antigen test, as NBC reported. Our method quickly detects intact virus particles, said Professor Achilles Kapanidis, at Oxfords Department of Physics. He said the test, described as cost-effective, should have an approved device in the middle of next year.

Israeli scientists identify drugs that can reduce COVID-19 severity

Israeli scientists have engaged in an extensive, systematic analysis of electronic health records to identify drugs that could reduce the risk of COVID-19 hospitalization, according to research published this week. Their results were encouraging: We identified several drugs and products sold in pharmacies that are significantly associated with reduced odds ratios of SARS-CoV-2 hospitalization and disease severity.

Oct. 14

CT positivity rate decreases to 1.9 percent

On Oct. 14, the State of Connecticut announced 164 new cases, four more deaths and 16 new hospitalizations. The positivity rate (the percentage of total tests that are positive) decreased to 1.9 percent, still a relatively high rate, but lower than the previously reported 2.4 percent on Oct. 13.

Dutch woman is first known death from COVID-19 reinfection

An elderly woman in the Netherlands has become the first known person to die from a COVID-19 reinfection, according to Dutch experts. She died nearly two weeks after being infected with the virus a second time. The lady had a rare bone marrow cancer called Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia, but researchers said her immune system could have still been sufficient to eliminate, the virus.

COVID-19 financial losses amount to about $16 trillion, study says

A pair of researchers from Harvard published a study this week in which they show that the estimated cumulative financial costs of the COVID-19 pandemic related to the lost output and health reduction is about $16 trillion in the United States. Thats equal to about 90 percent of the total annual GDP of the United States, translating to an average loss of almost $200 000 for a family of four. Those numbers are not so straightforward. Half of that $16 trillion is lost income from the COVID-19-induced recession  the rest is the estimated economic effects of shorter and less healthy life, researchers wrote.

Deaths 20% higher because of the pandemic

There were 20 percent more deaths than usual between March and July, according to one recent research letter published by scientists from Yale University and the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine. Those deaths were not all directly related to COVID  only about 67 percent of those 225,530 excess deaths were from a coronavirus infection. The remainder are from pandemic-related issues (like increased poverty or stretched-too-thin hospital resources.

Effects of COVID-19 on mental health will be profound: NYU researchers

Three mental health professionals from NYU expressed concerns in a research letter over what the sheer number of pandemic-related deaths might do to the people left behind. Each COVID-19 death leaves an estimated nine family members bereaved, which projects to an estimated 2 million bereaved individuals in the U.S., they wrote. Thus, the effect of COVID-19 deaths on mental health will be profound. Its not just the effects of dealing with death. There is also a significant amount of stress and social disruption caused by the pandemic, which has increased rates of depression and anxiety, and substance abuse. A second wave of devastation is imminent, attributable to mental health consequences of COVID-19, they wrote. The magnitude of this second wave is likely to overwhelm the already frayed mental health system, leading to access problems, particularly for the most vulnerable persons.

Oct. 13

CT positivity rate significantly increases to 2.4 percent

On Oct. 13, the State of Connecticut announced 320 new cases, one death and 17 more hospitalizations. The positivity rate (the percentage of total tests that are positive) increased significantly to 2.4 percent.

Pfizer expands vaccine study to include teenagers

Pfizer has altered its vaccine study to include younger participants aged 12 through 15 after getting permission by the Food and Drug Administration. The study originally planned for 30,000 participants, but expanded the participant pool to 44,000 in September.

Johnson & Johnson pauses COVID-19 vaccine trial after unexplained illness

Johnson & Johnson is temporarily pausing its COVID-19 vaccine trial after an unexplained illness in a study participant. The company said adverse events, like illnesses, are an expected part of any clinical study. The illness is being reviewed by ENSEMBLE independent Data Safety Monitoring Board and internal physicians. It is not always immediately apparent whether a participant received a study treatment or a placebo, the company said.

COVID-19 reinfection more severe the second time, study says

A study by The Lancet, a medical journal, found that a person re-infected with COVID-19 had more severe symptoms during his second battle with the virus. The patient developed myalgia, a cough, shortness of breath and signs of pneumonia. Researchers speculate that the reinfection may have been more severe for one of the following reasons: the patient may have been exposed to a higher dose of the virus, this version of the virus may be more malicious or antibodies could have been infected and became dependent on the virus.

U.S. experiences more COVID-19 deaths than any country, according to JAMA Network

The medical journal JAMA conducted a study to explain why the U.S.has experienced more COVID-19 deaths than any other country. After the first peak in early spring, U.S. death rates from COVID-19 and from all causes remained higher than even countries with high COVID-19 mortality, the study says. JAMA found that these results came from several factors, including weak public health infrastructure and a decentralized, inconsistent U.S. response to the pandemic.

Oct. 12

Coronavirus can linger on touchscreens for at least 28 days

Coronavirus can live and remain viable for at least 28 days on touchscreens and banknotes, according to newly released research from Australia. The study, from researchers at the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, showed that, at 68 degrees fahrenheit, the coronavirus can survive for a month on common surfaces such as glass, stainless steel and both paper and polymer banknotes. At 100 degrees fahrenheit, the virus can live less than 24 hours on those surfaces, the study said.

CDC: Infections in younger people happen before spike in infections in older people

A study of infection data by age group released by the CDC showed that in counties considered hotspots, including counties in Connecticut, a spike in the number of infections among younger people preceded a spike in infections among older people by several weeks. The dynamic was less profound in Northeast states, but the CDC notes that addressing transmission among young adults is an urgent public health priority.

CT projected to average over 16 deaths a day by 2021

Connecticut is currently seeing an average of 1.68 deaths from the coronavirus every day. Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation data shows the state hitting 2.3 average daily deaths by Election Day, and more than 16 deaths per day by Jan. 1. The IHMEs predictions dont go any further than February but, by that point, Connecticut could be looking at 30 deaths per day from the coronavirus, with significant increases in infections and hospital resource use as well.

Hartford is averaging 10 new cases per day

Hartford has been experiencing a steady rise in new COVID-19 cases every day. Data shows that Hartford has reported at least 10 new cases every day since Sept. 28. The rolling seven-day average shows an average 11 new cases each day so far in October.

Trinity College and UNH suspend in-person learning over COVID-19 outbreaks

Trinity College in Hartford and the University of New Haven have experienced outbreaks in the last few days. The University of New Haven announced today that it is suspending in-person learning until Oct. 17 because of the outbreak. Trinity has also paused in-person instruction until it can get a handle on the growing cases.

Oct. 9

CT positivity rate increases to 1.68 percent

On Oct. 9, the State of Connecticut announced 290 new cases, three more deaths and six new hospitalizations. The positivity rate (the percentage of total tests that are positive) increased to 1.68 percent.

States without mask mandates have 10 times the COVID-19 cases

A study of states policies as they reopened showed that those without mask mandates saw 10 times the number of coronavirus cases as those states with mask mandates. This study contributes to the growing evidence that mask usage is essential for mitigating community transmission of COVID-19, the study concludes. States should delay further reopening until mask mandates are fully implemented, and enforcement by local businesses will be critical for preventing potential future closures.

A serious COVID-19 infection can provide long-lasting immunity

A Harvard study suggests that a serious COVID-19 infection does provide long-lasting immunity. Its been assumed that catching the virus does grant some measure of immunity, but Harvard researchers may be the first to confirm that severe infections do result in some measure of immunity on a long-term basis. We showed that key antibody responses to COVID-19 do persist. the lead researcher said.

Coronavirus can live on human skin for nine hours

Coronavirus can live on human skin for nine hours, according to a study published in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases. The study shows that this nine-hour window during which the virus lingers creates a higher risk of transmission and underlines the importance of washing your hands or sanitizing.

Trump plans to hold a rally in Florida Saturday, whether infectious or not

President Donald Trump plans to hold a Saturday rally in Florida, an event which his doctors have cleared him for after a COVID diagnosis last week. Depending on the severity of his COVID infection, he may or may not be infectious at that point. According to the CDC, patients with mild to moderate remain infectious no longer than 10 days after symptom onset. Patients with more severe infections can be contagious for up to 20 days. The New York Times reported that Trump began experiencing symptoms on Wednesday, Sept. 30, exactly 10 days before his planned Saturday rally.

Oct. 8

384 cases and 5 COVID deaths as phase 3 begins

Gov. Ned Lamont announced an additional five deaths from COVID-19 Friday, as the state begins phase 3 of reopening, increasing indoor capacity in restaurants and opening up arts venues. The state also logged an additional one-day increase of 384 COVID cases, and a positivity rate of 1.4 percent.

White House chief adviser lays out vaccine approval for after election

A chief adviser to the White Houses Operation Warp Speed this week laid out a timetable for vaccine approval, after Nov. 3. On Tuesday, Moncef Slaoui told a symposium run by Johns Hopkins University that "Nobody can really say when," a vaccine would be approved, "but the expectation would be that this would happen between the month of November and December."

European Union secures 400 million doses of Johnson & Johnson vaccine

The European Union has secured 400 million doses of a vaccine being developed by Johnson & Johnson, one of four U.S.-made vaccine candidates currently in late-stage trials. The contract allows member states to purchase vaccines for 200 million people. They will also have the possibility to purchase vaccines for an additional 200 million people, the EU commission said in a statement, as was reported by Reuters. The E.U. has already signed similar deals with drugmakers AstraZeneca and Sanofi, which are also working on vaccine candidates.

U.S. ranked nine of 19 for pandemic management

The U.S. ranks ninth of 19 nations in terms of public perception of pandemic management, according to a new tool developed by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health and the City University of New York. The U.S. was rated highly in terms of income, food and shelter aid, but did not perform as well, in the view of survey respondents in terms of government cooperation with other nations and global agencies.

500,000 sharks could die for COVID vaccine, conservationists say

A conservationist group says that as many as 500,000 sharks could be killed to provide a coronavirus vaccine to the worlds population. Squalene, used as an emulsifier in many vaccines, is often derived from shark liver oil. California-based Shark Allies has put together a Change.org petition to encourage the worlds drugmakers to use squalene from other sources. The organization estimates that, depending on the vaccine, as many as 500,000 sharks could be killed to provide two vaccine doses globally.

Oct. 7

Note: Gov. Ned Lamont said Wednesday that the state actually administered more than more than 17,700 coronavirus tests Tuesday, instead of 8,200 as he initially reported. That brought the percent positive to 0.7 percent instead of 1.6 percent.

CT positivity rate increases since Oct. 6

On Oct. 7, the State of Connecticut announced 123 new cases, one death and nine more hospitalizations. The positivity rate (the percentage of total tests that are positive) increased to 1.62 percent.

Fauci says the U.S. could have as many as 400,000 deaths before pandemic ends

Anthony Fauci said during an event hosted by American University that the United States could see as many as 400,000 coronavirus deaths before the pandemic is over, as Axios reported. "We could have 300,000-400,000 COVID-19 deaths, if precautions arent taken, he said.

NY locks down on COVID-19 hotspots

New York State is locking down again, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said, placing restrictions on businesses, churches and schools near COVID-19 hotspots. Cuomo said the rules will be enforced in parts of Brooklyn, Queens, Orange and Rockland counties, and that they would take effect no later than Friday.

CT has had a 75 percent increase in COVID-19 cases over the last 14 days

The numbers are small, but the percentage increase in both cases and deaths from the coronavirus is high in Connecticut, according to data maintained by Kaiser Health News. There has been a 75 percent increase in the number of COVID-19 cases in the state over the last 14 days, the sixth highest in the nation. There has been a 40 percent increase in the number of COVID-related deaths, though the state is still at a rolling seven-day average of two deaths per day, which is relatively low for the United States. There is a seven-day average of about 200 new cases in the state.

One-third of COVID-19 patients experience neurological effects

A study by Annals of Clinical and Translational Neurology found that nearly a third of hospitalized COVID-19 patients experienced some form of an altered mental capacity. The symptoms are varied, ranging from dizziness to confusion to unresponsiveness. Patients with neurological symptoms experienced worse medical outcomes as a result, reported the New York Times.

Oct. 6

No new hospitalizations since Oct. 5

On Oct. 6, the State of Connecticut announced 121 new cases, 4 more deaths and no new hospitalizations. The positivity rate (the percentage of total tests that are positive) decreased to 1.47 percent.

Quest diagnostics releases at-home COVID-19 test kit

Quest Diagnostics has released a new, at-home COVID-19 test kit, WFSB reported. The kit includes a nasal swab PCR test that can be returned in an overnight FedEx envelope. A test kit costs $129 and can be ordered online at the Quest Diagnostics website. Alternatively, someone can complete the at-home test by buying it online and taking the specimen to a drive-thru pharmacy at a nearby Walmart.

White House blocks FDA guidelines preventing vaccine approval before election

The White House has blocked proposed FDA guidelines that would have prevented a vaccine from being approved before the Nov. 3 election, as multiple news organizations have reported. The FDA had instructed vaccine manufacturers to follow patients involved in vaccine trials for two months, a timeline that would have pushed any approvals to after the election.

13-year-old spreads coronavirus to 12 people in four states

The CDC has detailed how a 13-year-old with coronavirus spread the disease to at least 12 other people in four states. Fourteen people stayed in a house with the index patient, of whom 12 were infected (none worse masks or practiced social distancing). Six other relatives stayed outside of the hose and none of them caught the virus.

Relaxing social distancing rules contribute to increased transmission rates across U.S.

A study from researchers at the Center for Global Health in Boston showed that the transmission rate across the United States began increasing as soon as social distancing rules were relaxed. We detected an immediate and significant reversal in SARS-CoV-2 epidemic suppression after relaxation of social distancing measures across the U.S. Premature relaxation of social distancing measures undermined the countrys ability to control the disease burden associated with COVID-19, researchers said.

Oct. 5

Connecticuts positivity rate increases to 1.6

On Oct. 5, the State of Connecticut announced 823 new cases, four more deaths and 19 more hospitalizations. The positivity rate (the percentage of total tests that are positive) increased to 1.6 percent from the previous 1.3 percent on Oct. 2.

CT transmission rate at its highest since March

Connecticuts transmission rate is at its highest since March. The transmission rate is 1.11, according to rt.live and Yales model pins the rate at 1.15. This number means that an infected person will spread the disease to at least one other person on average, causing COVID-19 to spread.

MIT develops a cheap, new COVID-19 test

MIT has developed a COVID-19 test that is so cheap it could be administered at home every single day. The test returns results in 30 minutes to an hour, and is more than 90 percent accurate. We need rapid testing to become part of the fabric of this situation so that people can test themselves every day, which will slow down an outbreak, Omar Abudayyeh, an MIT McGovern Fellow working on the diagnostic, said in a release. The test is still in the research phase.

Coronavirus cases increase as cold front arrives

As the cold weather has arrived, there has been a record number of coronavirus cases in nine states, as Reuters reports. The states seeing the largest increases are those where the cold has taken hold, particularly in the northern Midwest. In Wisconsin, for example, an average of 22 percent of all COVID-19 tests are coming back positive.

CDC updates guidance to confirm COVID-19 can be spread through aerosols

Despite a mountain of other research, the CDC has gone back and forth about whether the virus can spread through aerosols, but a newly updated guidance affirms it can be spread through the air. Small viral particles can linger in the air for minutes or hours after a person has left a space, potentially infecting others. This kind of spread is called airborne transmission.

Oct. 2

Connecticuts COVID-19 cases continue to climb

On Oct. 2, the State of Connecticut announced 460 new cases, two more deaths and three more hospitalizations. The positivity rate (the percentage of total tests that are positive) is at 1.36 percent.

Norwich issued a COVID-19 alert after outbreak of positive cases

The state has issued a COVID-19 alert for the town of Norwich following a recent spike in cases in the area in the last two weeks, Gov. Ned Lamont said in a tweet early Friday morning. The state Department of Health said that Norwich recorded at least 84 new coronavirus cases in mid-September to raise the daily case rate to 24 per 100,000, the highest rate in the state. This is a significant increase in cases in Norwich we need to focus everyones attention on, said Acting DPH Commissioner Deidre S. Gifford in a release.

Moderna says vaccine could be ready by March 2021

The CEO of Moderna, one of the leading companies working on a coronavirus vaccine, said this week the company plans to submit its vaccine candidate to the FDA in January 2021, at the earliest, with an expected vaccine ready for public consumption no earlier than March or April of next year.

Kids are efficient virus spreaders, study says

Heres a little more about superspreaders: A study of 575,071 people who had been exposed to confirmed COVID-19 patients  the largest such study ever  found that children and young adults in particular were good at spreading the virus. Kids are very efficient transmitters in this setting, which is something that hasnt been firmly established in previous studies, said lead researcher Ramanan Laxminarayan.

Blumenthal getting tested after potential exposure at White House

President Trump has tested positive and is experiencing mild symptoms of COVID-19. Following his diagnosis, a string of White House officials along with Connecticuts Sen. Richard Blumenthal, have chosen to get tested. Sen. Chris Murphy stated the White House could now be a superspreading site, according to the New Haven Independent.

Oct. 1

Positive tests continues to grow in Connecticut

The percent of total tests that were positive in Connecticut continued to grow Thursday  1.85 percent of all coronavirus tests in the state came back positive, up from 1.78 the previous day. Again, three more deaths from the virus were identified, and another three people were fighting the disease in the hospital, according to the state

Who should get a vaccine first? Health care professionals

A study asked members of the public who they thought should get a vaccine first when one is available. Most people thought health care professionals should get a vaccine first. The goal is not only to better allocate limited resources but to build a little trust. Public engagement can contribute to resource allocation decisions, the studys authors said. Incorporating public preferences could advance the perceived legitimacy of vaccine allocation guidelines.

Vaccine trial participants experience symptoms in phase three

Participants in the vaccine trial being managed by Moderna and AstraZenica reported symptoms like fever, body aches, headaches and exhaustion, and while the symptoms were described as intense by some patients, they tended to abate in a single day or less, as CNBC reported. The Moderna vaccine candidate is one of of four currently in phase three trials in the United States.

Fauci says vaccine trials need a diverse group of patients

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Director Anthony Fauci told congress that vaccine trials need to include a diverse group of patients. We need to get a diverse representation of the population in the clinical trials," he told a panel of Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) members, as The Hill reported. "So when they are proven to be safe and effective, we can say they are safe and effective in everyone, not only in whites."

FDA looks into a wider scope of side effects from AstraZenica vaccine candidate

The FDA is widening the scope of its investigation into possible side effects from the AstraZenica vaccine candidate, probably resulting in further delays, as Reuters reported. The stage three trial has been on hold since Sept. 8, after a patient in the trial developed a spinal cord illness called transverse myelitis.

Sept. 30

Percent positive up in CT

About 1.8 percent of the total number of coronavirus tests in Connecticut were positive, an increase of about .1 percent from the day before. There were a total of 221 new cases announced, and 12 new COVID-19-related hospitalizations. In addition, there were three more coronavirus-related deaths in the state.

COVID-19 may be ramping up in NYC

Coronavirus cases are spiking in New York City. The daily rate of positive coronavirus tests jumped to 3.25 percent on Tuesday from 1.9 the day earlier, though it then dropped back down to below 1 percent. That spike may be centered in the citys Orthodox Jewish community, but the city did just open up to 25 percent of indoor capacity at restaurants.

Percent positive up in New Jersey

New Yorks positivity rate  the percentage of tests that are positive  may be jumping up and down, and Connecticuts may be inching up, but pay attention to New Jersey. State officials there said Wednesday the positivity rate in that state climbed over 3 percent after being in the 2 percent range for weeks.

Transmission on surfaces unlikely in the real world

Coronavirus transmission on surfaces is unlikely, according to a letter published in the journal Lancet. In laboratory conditions its possible, but in the real world its far less likely, provided that standard cleaning procedures and precautions are enforced. Wash your hands.

Chinese citizens are already getting a vaccine

There has been no coronavirus vaccine yet approved in China, but state media has said that hundreds of thousands of Chinese citizens are receiving an unapproved shot under an emergency authorization, as The New Yorker reported. The goal, they said, was to beat the United States to the punch. Chinese officials are thinking that Donald Trump might approve a U.S. vaccine before the election, Yiwu He, the chief innovation officer at the University of Hong Kong, told The New Yorker. So their goal is to have a vaccine approved before that.

Sept. 29

COVID-19 hospitalizations rise

Since Tuesday, the state of Connecticut announced 182 new cases, 2 more deaths and 17 more hospitalizations. The positivity rate (the percentage of total tests that are positive) has decreased to 1.06 percent.

Less than 10 percent of U.S. adults formed antibodies during first COVID-19 wave

A study by The Lancet shows that fewer than 10 percent of the U.S. adult population developed antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, during the first wave of the pandemic and fewer than 10 percent of those with antibodies were diagnosed. This has a lot of implications when youre looking at things such as vaccines.

Rapid COVID-19 tests to be used in Connecticut schools

Connecticut is expecting to receive 1 million rapid COVID-19 tests from the federal government. The tests are meant to help keep schools open. Of the 1 million tests, 69,000 will arrive next week, according to Gov. Ned Lamont. The tests will also be used in nursing homes, day care centers, prisons and for the state's rapid-response team to deal with virus outbreaks.

Lawsuit to stop kids from wearing masks in schools goes to court

Parents from five Connecticut towns are arguing that the state lacked the authority to create the mandate and violated the constitutional rights of students by imposing it. A state Superior Court judge is presiding over the lawsuit.

Americans over 30 have been drinking more during the pandemic

Adults over 30 have been drinking more during the pandemic, according to the JAMA Network Open journal. Alcohol consumption has increased 14 percent since 2019, averaging out to one additional drinking day per month by 75 percent of adults.

Sept. 28

More cases reported and one less hospitalization since Sept. 25

Since Sept. 25, the State of Connecticut announced 560 new cases, two more deaths and one less hospitalization. The positivity rate (the percentage of total tests that are positive) is at 1.1 percent Monday.

Silent reinfections coming to surface

An article from the journal Nature reports that the reinfection found in two Indian doctors who contracted COVID-19 in May is genetically different the second time around, according to the Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology in New Delhi. The evidence indicates that the doctors bodies are not harboring leftover virus, but instead being infected all over again. To this extent, it suggests asymptomatic reinfections are underreported.

CDC releases guidelines for a safe Thanksgiving

The Center for Disease Control released guidelines for Thanksgiving plans. One of these guidelines calls for those hosting a dinner to only include people who live in the household or have a virtual dinner.

Long-term care facilities allowing visitors again in Connecticut

The state Department of Public Health announced that long-term care facilities can begin to have visitors again. Visitors will be screened by the facility and are required to wear protective gear, such as masks. There will be limitations on how many visitors a patient can have at a time and how many are allowed in the facility.

The horseshoe crab could be a saving grace against COVID-19

Horseshoe crab blood is a key ingredient in the making of vaccines, even one for COVID-19, according to an article in National Geographic. The blood contains a substance called limulus amebocyte lysate, which helps detect a bacterial toxin that could be deadly if it makes it into vaccines. It just so happens this ingredient might be a saving grace in fighting COVID-19.

Sept. 25

Positivity rate in Connecticut is back down below 1 percent

There were 115 new cases of the coronavirus reported in Connecticut Friday afternoon, the lowest single day increase in recent memory. In addition, the state posted a positivity rate (the percentage of coronavirus tests that were positive) of a bit more than 0.8 percent. This news comes a day after Gov. Ned Lamont that the state would begin its phase three opening, allowing for restaurants to go to 75 percent capacity indoors.

Transmission rate remains slightly elevated

The only dark spot on Connecticuts COVID-19 horizon is the transmission rate (denoted as R0) which, according to rt.live, remained at 1.10 as of Friday evening. An Rt over 1 means the virus is spreading  below 1 and the virus is contained and not spreading through the population.

COVID-19 deaths globally are close to 1 million

The world is expected to cross the threshold of 1 million deaths from COVID-19 within the next few days. According to a tracker maintained by Johns Hopkins University, there were 985,104 deaths worldwide from COVID-19 as of Friday afternoon. Most estimates suggest that the world will hit 1 million deaths from the coronavirus before MOnday.

Non-COVID hospital admissions up  for some

Hospital admissions dropped considerably during the pandemic, but non-COVID-related hospital admissions bounced back (to 16 percent below normal) in June and July. Not among all cohorts, according to this study in Health Affairs. Hospital admissions in majority Hispanic areas were 32 percent lower, and were 44 percent lower among pneumonia patients and 40 percent down among people with COPD or asthma.

Is there a new way to test for COVID?

There is potentially a new way to diagnose COVID-19 which could potentially be used to analyse thousands of samples per day on a single instrument, according to the pre-printed study. The LamPORE test platform, as its called, is about as accurate as the current PCR tests being used.
They have now both been nominated for a national police bravery award

She said attack left her fearing for unborn baby daughter - who was unharmed

But the youths stabbed Jack twice and kicked and punched pregnant Joanna

A policewoman told how she feared she would lose her unborn baby as a gang of youths attacked her and her stabbed her officer husband.

PCs Joanna and Jack Wilber suffered a 'sustained attack' at the hands of an aggressive group after they stepped in to help a woman screaming for help in her car.

The couple - who work for Greater Manchester Police in Oldham - have since been nominated for a national police bravery award by their force.

Speaking for the first time, Mrs Wilber, 35, told Sky News: 'It was horrendous. I can't tell you how scared I was'.

PCs Joanna and Jack Wilber suffered a 'sustained attack' at the hands of an aggressive group after they stepped in to help a woman screaming for help in her car

The couple were attacked in September last year when, off-duty, they leapt to the defence of woman who had been surrounded by a group of nine youths in her car.

Mr Wilber, 28, was stabbed in the back and in his arm with what he believed to be either a screwdriver or a knife.

The thugs also ended up breaking some of his ribs as he was violently punched, when his wife tried to intervene.

She said: 'I stood in front of Jack and I was pleading with them because you could see I was heavily pregnant. I was saying to them: "Go away, I'm pregnant. Just leave us alone."'

But the group continued to attack the couple, kicking and punching Mrs Wilber so hard it left an imprint of a trainer on her thigh.

The couple - who work for Greater Manchester Police in Oldham - have since been nominated for a national police bravery award by their force

When the terrifying incident finished however, Mrs Wilber was left fearing that the youths could have hurt her unborn baby.

'I went to the hospital that evening. I wasn't sure if I had been kicked in the stomach,' she said.

After an agonising wait doctors told the couple that their baby had not been harmed in the attack.

'It was one of the scariest things I've ever been through. We wanted this baby so much,' said Mrs Wilber.

Mr and Mrs Wilber, who have been married for almost three years, welcomed their baby daughter in February.

The terrifying incident left Mrs Wilber fearing that the youths had hurt her unborn baby. After an agonising wait at hospital, doctors told the couple their baby was unharmed

Greater Manchester's Police Federation said the officers have now been nominated for a police bravery award after suffering 'horrific injuries in the process of protecting a member of the public'.

All the suspects were arrested and the police investigation into the incident is ongoing, it added.

The federation's chairman Stu Berry said the incident 'really proves that GMP officers are never off duty'.

'Jack and Joanna realised that this woman was clearly in trouble and in the best traditions of policing ran towards the danger to protect her,' he said.

'What a brave thing to do - they were up against an armed gang but protected this woman and did everything they could to get their assailants to justice.

The National Police Bravery Awards take place in London in July.
India and China are expected to hold the seventh round of corps commander-level talks in eastern Ladakh next week in their latest attempt to reduce military friction along the contested border, officials familiar with the developments said on Thursday.

The two countries have been locked in a border row for almost five months, and their armies have made arrangements for a long haul in the Ladakh sector with no resolution to the dispute in sight.

Indian and Chinese diplomats held talks on the border standoff on Wednesday with little to show beyond a commitment to implement decisions made at the last round of military talks about maintaining stability along the contested Line of Actual Control (LAC).

The September 21 military talks remained inconclusive, with Indian negotiators firmly demanding comprehensive disengagement at all flashpoints and restoration of status quo ante as the only approach towards de-escalation, and China asking India to withdraw its soldiers from strategic heights on the southern bank of Pangong Tso to reduce friction.

The two sides, however, made some headway.

According to a joint statement, released in New Delhi and Beijing on September 22, the two sides agreed to stop sending more troops to the front line and to hold a seventh round of commander-level talks as soon as possible, take practical measures to properly solve problems on the ground, and jointly safeguard peace and tranquility in the border area.

Chinas recent assertion that it abides by the LAC as proposed by Premier Zhou Enlai to Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1959 has complicated the border row in eastern Ladakh, and called into question Beijings intent to restore status quo ante of early April and de-escalate the conflict, officials said.

A change of guard is set to take place at the Leh-based 14 Corps, with its current commander Lieutenant General Harinder Singh moving out shortly after completing his one-year term. Singh is heading to Dehradun as the commandant of the Indian Military Academy.

Singh will be replaced by Lieutenant General PGK Menon. He was present along with Singh at the September 21 talks. The change of guard will take place around mid-October.

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Prosafe refers to the information on its financial status and process with lenders that has been provided over time.



The process and creditor discussions continue. The discussions remain constructive and lenders in general maintain their support for the company to continue to operate on a going concern basis and seek a long-term financial solution while reserving their rights.



The company is seeking a sustainable balance sheet, although it is too early to say what a solution may look like and thus also indicate the financial and accounting effects of the same. The target remains to agree a sustainable solution during the second half of 2020. Pending conclusion of these discussions, the company continues to operate on a business as usual basis to protect and create value through challenging market conditions.



On this basis the company will continue to defer making payments of scheduled instalments and interests under both bank facilities. Similarly, payment of the final instalment owed and due under the seller credit to Cosco for the Safe Notos remains as initially reported on 13 February subject to ongoing discussions with Cosco and the lenders.

Further information will be provided in due course.Prosafe is a leading owner and operator of semi-submersible accommodation vessels. The company is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange with ticker code PRS. For more information, please refer to www.prosafe.comStavanger, 1 October 2020Prosafe SEFor further information, please contact:Jesper K. Andresen, CEOPhone: +47 51 65 24 30 / +47 907 65 155Stig Harry Christiansen, Deputy CEO and CFOPhone: +47 51 64 25 17 / +47 478 07 813This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act
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CBRE

Magee

Dave Magee has joined CBRE as a first vice president, the company has announced. He makes the move from Cushman & Wakefield. CBRE's John R. Miller said in a statement, Dave is a seasoned professional who has built one of our industry's strongest networks on a foundation of friendship, experience and patience. He is a respected veteran in the Puget Sound region and will have an immediate positive impact on our service offering and culture. Magee added, While the pandemic has left no region untouched, I can't think of a better place to be right now than the Pacific Northwest.




Edison, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/01/2020 -- A new business intelligence report released by HTF MI with title "COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Weather Forecasting for Business Industry Market Report-Development Trends, Threats, Opportunities and Competitive Landscape in 2020" is designed covering micro level of analysis by manufacturers and key business segments. The COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Weather Forecasting for Business Market survey analysis offers energetic visions to conclude and study market size, market hopes, and competitive surroundings. The research is derived through primary and secondary statistics sources and it comprises both qualitative and quantitative detailing. Some of the key players profiled in the study are Accuweather Inc., Global Weather Corporation, BMT ARGOSS, Sailing Weather Service, Right Weather LLC, AWIS, Precision Weather, StormGeo, MeteoGroup, The Weather Company, Fugro, Hometown Forecast Services, WeatherBell Analytics, Enav S.p.A & Skymet Weather Services.



What's keeping Accuweather Inc., Global Weather Corporation, BMT ARGOSS, Sailing Weather Service, Right Weather LLC, AWIS, Precision Weather, StormGeo, MeteoGroup, The Weather Company, Fugro, Hometown Forecast Services, WeatherBell Analytics, Enav S.p.A & Skymet Weather Services Ahead in the Market? Benchmark yourself with the strategic moves and findings recently released by HTF MI



Get Free Sample Report + All Related Graphs & Charts @ : https://www.htfmarketreport.com/sample-report/2866545-covid-19-outbreak-global-weather-forecasting-for-business-industry-market



Market Overview of COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Weather Forecasting for Business

If you are involved in the COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Weather Forecasting for Business industry or aim to be, then this study will provide you inclusive point of view. It's vital you keep your market knowledge up to date segmented by Applications [Enterprise, Defense & Military & Meteorology & Weather Service Provider], Product Types [, Short-range Forecasting, Medium-range Forecasting & Long-range Forecasting] and major players. If you have a different set of players/manufacturers according to geography or needs regional or country segmented reports we can provide customization according to your requirement.



This study mainly helps understand which market segments or Region or Country they should focus in coming years to channelize their efforts and investments to maximize growth and profitability. The report presents the market competitive landscape and a consistent in depth analysis of the major vendor/key players in the market along with impact of economic slowdown due to COVID.



Furthermore, the years considered for the study are as follows:

Historical year  2014-2019

Base year  2019

Forecast period**  2020 to 2026 [** unless otherwise stated]



**Moreover, it will also include the opportunities available in micro markets for stakeholders to invest, detailed analysis of competitive landscape and product services of key players.



Enquire for customization in Report @: https://www.htfmarketreport.com/enquiry-before-buy/2866545-covid-19-outbreak-global-weather-forecasting-for-business-industry-market



The titled segments and sub-section of the market are illuminated below:

The Study Explore the Product Types of COVID-19 Outbreak- Weather Forecasting for Business Market: , Short-range Forecasting, Medium-range Forecasting & Long-range Forecasting



Key Applications/end-users of COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Weather Forecasting for Business Market: Enterprise, Defense & Military & Meteorology & Weather Service Provider



Top Players in the Market are: Accuweather Inc., Global Weather Corporation, BMT ARGOSS, Sailing Weather Service, Right Weather LLC, AWIS, Precision Weather, StormGeo, MeteoGroup, The Weather Company, Fugro, Hometown Forecast Services, WeatherBell Analytics, Enav S.p.A & Skymet Weather Services



Region Included are: North America (Covered in Chapter 7 and 14), United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe (Covered in Chapter 8 and 14), Germany, UK, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, Others, Asia-Pacific (Covered in Chapter 9 and 14), China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, India, Southeast Asia, Others, Middle East and Africa (Covered in Chapter 10 and 14), Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa, Others, South America (Covered in Chapter 11 and 14), Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Chile & Others



Important Features that are under offering & key highlights of the report:

 Detailed overview of COVID-19 Outbreak- Weather Forecasting for Business market

 Changing market dynamics of the industry

 In-depth market segmentation by Type, Application etc

 Historical, current and projected market size in terms of volume and value

 Recent industry trends and developments

 Competitive landscape of COVID-19 Outbreak- Weather Forecasting for Business market

 Strategies of key players and product offerings

 Potential and niche segments/regions exhibiting promising growth

 A neutral perspective towards COVID-19 Outbreak- Weather Forecasting for Business market performance

 Market players information to sustain and enhance their footprint



Read Detailed Index of full Research Study at @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/reports/2866545-covid-19-outbreak-global-weather-forecasting-for-business-industry-market



Major Highlights of TOC:

Chapter One: COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Weather Forecasting for Business Market Industry Overview

1.1 COVID-19 Outbreak- Weather Forecasting for Business Industry

1.1.1 Overview

1.1.2 Products of Major Companies

1.2 COVID-19 Outbreak- Weather Forecasting for Business Market Segment

1.2.1 Industry Chain

1.2.2 Consumer Distribution

1.3 Price & Cost Overview



Chapter Two: COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Weather Forecasting for Business Market Demand

2.1 Segment Overview

2.1.1 APPLICATION 1

2.1.2 APPLICATION 2

2.1.3 Other

2.2 COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Weather Forecasting for Business Market Size by Demand

2.3 COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Weather Forecasting for Business Market Forecast by Demand



Chapter Three: COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Weather Forecasting for Business Market by Type

3.1 By Type

3.1.1 TYPE 1

3.1.2 TYPE 2

3.2 COVID-19 Outbreak- Weather Forecasting for Business Market Size by Type

3.3 COVID-19 Outbreak- Weather Forecasting for Business Market Forecast by Type



Chapter Four: Major Region of COVID-19 Outbreak- Weather Forecasting for Business Market

4.1 COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Weather Forecasting for Business Sales

4.2 COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Weather Forecasting for Business Revenue & market share



Chapter Five: Major Companies List



Chapter Six: Conclusion



Complete Purchase of Latest Version COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Weather Forecasting for Business Market Study with COVID-19 Impact Analysis @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/buy-now?format=1&report=2866545



Key questions answered

- What impact does COVID-19 have made on COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Weather Forecasting for Business Market Growth & Sizing?

- Who are the Leading key players and what are their Key Business plans in the COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Weather Forecasting for Business market?

- What are the key concerns of the five forces analysis of the COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Weather Forecasting for Business market?

- What are different prospects and threats faced by the dealers in the COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Weather Forecasting for Business market?

- What are the strengths and weaknesses of the key vendors?



Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report version like North America, Europe or Asia.



About HTF Market Report

HTF Market Report is a wholly owned brand of HTF market Intelligence Consulting Private Limited. HTF Market Report global research and market intelligence consulting organization is uniquely positioned to not only identify growth opportunities but to also empower and inspire you to create visionary growth strategies for futures, enabled by our extraordinary depth and breadth of thought leadership, research, tools, events and experience that assist you for making goals into a reality. Our understanding of the interplay between industry convergence, Mega Trends, technologies and market trends provides our clients with new business models and expansion opportunities. We are focused on identifying the "Accurate Forecast" in every industry we cover so our clients can reap the benefits of being early market entrants and can accomplish their "Goals & Objectives".



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Chinas Push For Unilateralism Is Crippled by Its Lack of Shared Values

The Trump administration has joined with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children to launch a new campaign to combat child exploitation and child trafficking. A White House statement said that Trump administration officials including Attorney General William Barr and White House adviser Ivanka Trump will represent the the Trump administration in a webinar, and support its new Safety Pledge initiative for education and awareness of child exploitation.

In Hong Kong, meanwhile, police surrounded and cordoned off a part of the metro station where a high school student was sitting and reading a copy of the pro-democracy Apple Daily newspaper. He was allegedly told that his actions affect other passengers. The student is Davis, who is known for holding one-man protests, and is allegedly targeted and surrounded by Hong Kong police frequently.

And the Vatican wants to extend its agreement with the CCP on recognizing the regimes bishops, which is set to end on October 22. According to Vatican News, Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin said it seems to me that a direction has been marked out that is worth continuing; then we will see. The Holy See and the Chinese regime published a joint communication on September 22, and announced a provisional agreement that Vatican News says it aims to permit the Catholic faithful to have bishops in full communion with the Successor of Peter who are at the same time recognized by the authorities of the Peoples Republic of China.

These stories and more in this episode of Crossroads.

Crossroads is an Epoch Times show available on Facebook and YouTube.

Join Patreon to Support Crossroads: https://www.patreon.com/Crossroads_Josh
Three Australia Post (AP) workers spoke to the World Socialist Web Site this week about the COVID-19 dangers they have been subjected to by unions and management at the state-owned postal service, and the escalating attacks on their conditions during the pandemic.

Under draconian regulations, previously upheld by the courts, public sector employees can be sacked, and face other punitive repercussions, for speaking about their conditions of work. For this reason, the AP workers are compelled to make their comments anonymously.

Despite the threats, which have never been challenged by the unions, the workers said they felt they must speak out because of the destructive consequences of yet another pro-business overhaul at AP initiated this year, as well as the dangerous conditions they have faced.

On the pretext of the pandemic, AP management and the federal government scrapped daily letter delivery requirements and moved to an Alternative Delivery Model (ADM). This is aimed at refocusing the entitys operations into the lucrative parcel sector, in preparation for privatisation, including through mass job cuts.

When the changes were announced in April, officials from the Communication Electrical and Plumbers Union (CEPU) and Communications Workers Union (CWU), which cover AP, feigned shock and warned that at least 2,000 jobs were threatened. It rapidly emerged that they had been in back-room talks with the government before the overhaul was introduced.

Since then the unions have sought to prevent any opposition from workers. They have signed up to the introduction of the ADM, on the basis of a worthless pledge from management that there will be no enforced job cuts over the next 12 months, and are imposing a ban on any industrial action.

The three workers all said that the COVID-19 crisis was only a pretext for the overhaul. Indeed they and their colleagues had been imperilled by the virus, as a result of the actions of management and the unions.

Over the coming days, the WSWS will publish further comments from the workers.

Asked about information during the pandemic, one of the workers said: We were told very little at the start of the pandemic. I saw in an interview where AP CEO Christine Holgate recently said 50 employees had contracted the virus this year. But we were never told on the shop floor what was going on. We ran out of hand sanitiser at one point and it took several weeks before they sourced and provided more. Most posties brought their own sanitiser and face masks.

Meanwhile we were doing our rounds as normal. We were told we had to continue to deliver junk mail even though this meant spending more time outside under conditions of a growing world-wide pandemic. The response by management when it was questioned was because its a revenue source. So, it was perfectly clear from the start that revenue was and is more important than the wellbeing and safety of workers.

For its part, the union simply agreed with the policies that management instigated. Management introduced social distancing in the facilities and split the start times for teams, with one set starting at 6.30 a.m., and the other at 8.30 a.m., which then changed to 9 a.m. When we asked why we were starting later, the reply was to cut overtime. It had very little to do with combating COVID-19 and everything to do with saving costs.

The unions just repeated what management said and told us that if a case of COVID emerged in our facility, then we should take our safety into our own hands and not go in. But they never put forward any united action independently of management. Workers were left to decide for themselves.

Another worker said: The information from the union is very limited. An example of their role was demonstrated at the beginning of the pandemic. There was a case at a facility and workers were not told about it before they clocked on. So when the second shift came in they went to work as usual. The personal protective equipment (PPE) is limited and social distancing is almost non-existent because staff have to congregate to do their work like getting late express parcels.

The third worker noted that there had been a major overhaul at their facility in the months preceding the pandemic, involving the installation of large sorting machines.

So the staff were squeezed in like battery hens at work stations and mail/parcel slotting spaces were greatly diminished. Every square meter of our vast facility was calculated and re-calculated to save as much space as possible. So when COVID hit we were already up against each other. Shifts were created and starting times staggered but whenever production needs warranted, posties were sorting mail shoulder to shoulder and no-one blinked.

The worker added, Whatever COVID cases emerged it was reported in whispered terms under the guise of privacy of the individual, which automatically vetoed the collective health and knowledge of the rest of us.

We used to have daily reports of COVID hot spots in Sydney. We were told that we had to automatically go home and isolate if we had been to any of these places. Reporting of this stopped a month ago for my team. Of course many of us were worried because we were natural carriers and distributors of COVID given our very job was to be in daily contact with a wide variety of people and places.

There is no doubt in my mind that many middle managers, being ex-posties themselves, did the best they could to keep social distancing and provide PPE, but the demands of production are a hard weight to carry and enforce and the balancing act always falls the way of keeping your job and that means delivering what production demands. The union doesnt even warrant a mention in all this.

The workers all noted that in addition to the safety dangers, the introduction of the ADM, enforced by the unions, had made their job far more onerous than before.

One of them explained: The ADM is based on seniority. Those with the longest time up get assigned a beat or a van run and then those left over are the ones whose positions would have become redundant under the initial management proposal. They are now known as floaters. At this point management has decided to keep these workers and they are given whatever jobs are available. You could be doing a beat or delivering parcels or whatever is needed. I heard you could even be asked to go to another facility if the work is there.

If you refuse then there is no position for you and you dont have a job. We heard of some posties that have been doing a beat for years or riding a motorbike, being told they have to change. When they said they didnt want to, they were told to do as they were instructed, or they wouldnt have a job anymore.

The ADM changes the way we work. As a walking postie you will have to start delivering two beats instead of one. You have to do them on alternative days. But this now means you get double the mail and large letters and magazines including junk mail. Posties are doing double the amount of work each day on a beat as well as delivering parcels, which we were already doing. If you are a delivery van postie with parcels, you are like a gig economy worker. Its basically courier work.

Another said that the ADM had only recently been rolled out at their facility: I witnessed one normally calm and cheerful postie have a meltdown of confusion and panic on their first day in a van. What used to be a job you would gladly retire on has now become like a job for contractors forever chasing their tail to meet deadlines with piecemeal payments. We still get paid hourly but under enormous pressure to perform.

The main response I have seen is man overboard. In anticipation of the destruction of a good job and now realising fully that the union will do nothing, many are walking the plank. Some know they are jumping into a sea of sharks of economic uncertainty, but still we are now having a weekly parade. I know of at least ten in the last fortnight who have or are about to go. Many posties within an earshot of retirement are seriously considering doing so rather than having to practically learn a new job.

Whilst management are saying where you work and what you do is optional, it is clear to me from a number of cases they are having a quiet word to posties that they have already worked out a preferred option that best suits the ADM.

The third worker said: Posties with little seniority, especially with young families, dont want to go into vans but they have to do it because there is no other position. They dont want to do it because the amount of parcels and difficulty of delivery means you finish late. It is also hard to find legal parking, so for a number of the van drivers they are walking more than when they were just regular posties. They have to power walk to deliver, often going up many flights of stairs every day.

Posties are very upset because they are very tired when they get home and cant do much with their families. Their legs are so sore that they have to have a hot bath and soak their legs to help recover. By the end of the week they can be very fatigued.

We appeal to AP workers who want to fight the restructure and the dangerous conditions to contact the Socialist Equality Party at: sep@sep.org.au
LOS ANGELES, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- As Filipino American History Month officially begins today, Search to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA) announces additions to the star-studded lineup for its 48th Annual Benefit, "Vision for Tomorrow," a virtual gala on Saturday, October 10, at 5 p.m. PT (8 p.m. ET.)

Joining entertainers such as Apl.de.Ap of Black Eyed Peas, Nick Cannon, Josh Dela Cruz, Ava DuVernay, H.E.R., Jo Koy, Dan Lin, and Lea Salonga, are Ella Jay Basco of "Birds of Prey," pro dancer Cheryl Burke, news anchor Cher Calvin of L.A.'s KTLA News, L.A.-based dancers from Malaya Filipino American Dance Arts, and Princess Punzalan of "Yellow Rose." The SIPA benefit aims to raise money for one of the oldest Fil-Am non-profit organizations in the United States, based in Historic Filipinotown. The virtual gala will be hosted by Erin Lim, host of E! News' The Rundown and BingE! Club, and beauty guru and YouTube personality Patrick Starrr.

In addition to celebrated Fil-Am comedian Jo Koy, who appears on the September 30 cover of Variety magazine as a "Legend & Groundbreaker," SIPA is honoring Commissioner Jessica Caloza of the Board of Public Works, community leader Anna Marie Cruz of Entrepinayship, and SIPA co-founding board member and community advocate Alan Kumamoto. Also, to be honored for excellence in business is Seafood City Supermarkets, recognized for its support of the Fil-Am culinary scene and the dedication of its grocery store staff working on the frontlines during the pandemic.

"All of us at SIPA are excited to produce this special program for the community," said Lyle del Mundo, president of the SIPA Board of Directors. "One way to enjoy the virtual gala while safely dining at home is by ordering your favorite Filipino food. On October 10, viewers are encouraged to order take-out or delivery from a Filipino-owned restaurant in their city."

SIPA is offering a limited number of "Dine & Donate" exclusive gala dinners for viewers in Los Angeles. With a $50 or $100 gala donation to SIPA, viewers in L.A. can pick up a special dinner from HiFi Kitchen in Historic Filipinotown or LASA in Historic Chinatown. Donate now as limited quantities are available. Gala sponsors get to enjoy a special VIP dinner package from The Park's Finest, the popular HiFi-adjacent restaurant in Echo Park, celebrating more than 10 years in business. The Park's Finest will be featured again on the Food Network, during the premiere of "Triple D Nation" on October 2, at 6 p.m. PT. For more information on "Dine & Donate" or VIP sponsorship dinners, visit http://bit.ly/SIPAGALA.

For gala viewers across the country, SIPA encourages participating in a special "Support Small Business" gala dining program. Beginning October 5, a specially curated list of Fil-Am-owned restaurants and small businesses offering food/catering in cities such as Cerritos, Chicago, Honolulu, Las Vegas, New York City, San Fernando Valley, San Francisco, Seattle, West Covina, and more will be available on https://sipacares.org.

Supporting small business is at the heart of SIPA's community efforts. In order to continue its mission, SIPA needs donations now more than ever. Due to the pandemic, SIPA's events and programming have either halted or transitioned online. This year's benefit will raise necessary funds for SIPA's new headquarters and programs at HiFi Collective, located at 3200 W. Temple Street and set to open in spring 2022. HiFi Collective will house the future John Eric Swing Small Business Center, named in honor of Swing, a champion of small business.

Registration for the virtual gala is free at http://bit.ly/SIPAGALA, with viewing available on Facebook, IGTV, YouTube or Twitch. Support SIPA today by becoming a sponsor, purchasing dinner online, or making a tax-deductible donation at https://sipacares.org. More information about SIPA sponsorship opportunities and "Dine & Donate" is available through gala co-chairs Candida Boyette-Clemons at [email protected] or Jessica del Mundo at [email protected].

For press inquiries only, please contact 10storyhouse PR for SIPA at 1-323-741-5600.

SOURCE Search to Involve Pilipino Americans
Flying to anywhere outside India at present is difficult given the Covid-19 situation across the world. Though several countries have opened their skies for international flights, there are several checks and balances. India and the UAE are part of an air bubble agreement, which allows airlines of both the countries to carry passengers. But Dubai has imposed several additional conditions on Indians flying to Dubai.

On September 18, Dubai authorities suspended all Air India Express flights temporarily for 15 days for allegedly carrying coronavirus positive patients to the UAE city twice. The ban was lifted a day after. The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority also penalised Air India Express to bear all medical and quarantine expenditures of the Covid-19 positive patients who have been ferried to Dubai.

Test from these labs not valid

The authorities in Dubai has also specified four Indian labs whose test results are not be considered valid. It has asked Air India Express to reject negative RT-PCR test reports of these labs: Suryam Lab, Jaipur; Microhealth lab, Kerala; Dr P Bhasin Pathlabs (P) Ltd in Delhi and Noble Diagnostic Centre, also in Delhi.

The certificate must be in English, if no in Arabic. No other language certificate will be entertained, Vistara guidelines for Dubai passengers said.

Visa rules

Tourist visa holders travelling to the UAE (Dubai and Sharjah) must ensure that the passport and related documents must have a minimum 6 months validity from the arrival date.

On September 4, Air India carried a Covid positive passenger to Dubai. The passenger had a Covid positive certificate, reports said. In August too, a similar such incident took place. The airlines, however, blamed the ground-handling agency for the lapse.

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By PTI

CHANDIGARH: Asymptomatic and mildly symptomatic COVID-19 patients in home isolation will be monitored in Punjab from Friday with the state government engaging a consortium of professional home healthcare companies for their regular monitoring, a senior official said.

Health Secretary Hussan Lal informed Chief Minister Amarinder Singh during a meeting on Thursday that M/s Health Vista Private Limited has been hired for the purpose, and their professional health care tele-callers will monitor, on a daily basis, the health of COVID patients in home isolation for less than 10 days, an official release said here.

The consortium has the experience of monitoring such patients in other states and cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Karnataka.

Daily calling of home isolation patients for monitoring their well-being will be done from phone numbers 01206679850, 08068972066 and 04068118722, the release said.

Patients who are 40 years and above will be monitored on priority under this system.

The patients are being requested to respond when they receive calls from the mentioned numbers, the release said.

Video calls for consultation with the doctor, in case desired by home isolation patients, will be arranged.

For any medical assistance and doctor consultation by the patients during their isolation period, a separate dedicated number will be shared over SMS with the patient.

For any emergency or ambulance requirement, 108 or 104 can be dialled.

Meanwhile, the Punjab government has set up state and district level task forces to augment the supply and distribution of oxygen amid the COVID pandemic to ensure that there is no shortfall, and is set to float tenders for installing generation plants and storage tanks in all the three government medical colleges and hospitals with generation facilities at civil hospitals in Jalandhar and Ludhiana.

The estimated requirement for liquid medical oxygen generators and storage facilities at the three GMCs at Amritsar, Patiala and Faridkot has been estimated at Rs 9.92 crore, and tenders for the same will be issued soon, the release stated.
Michigan Joins $39.5M Multistate Settlement over 2014 Anthem Data Breach

Michigan Joins $39.5M Multistate Settlement over 2014 Anthem Data Breach

October 1, 2020 LANSING  Attorney General Dana Nessel today announced that Michigan has joined a $39.5 million settlement with national health care insurer Anthem stemming from the massive 2014 data breach that involved the personal information of 78.8 million Americans. Through the settlement, Anthem has reached a resolution with the 43-state coalition and California. Michigan will receive $354,542.05 from the settlement. In addition to the payment, Anthem has also agreed to a series of data security and good governance provisions designed to strengthen its practices going forward.

In February 2015, Anthem disclosed that cyber attackers had infiltrated its systems beginning in February 2014 by using malware installed through a phishing email. The attackers were ultimately able to gain access to Anthems data warehouse where they harvested names, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, health care identification numbers, home addresses, email addresses, phone numbers and employment information for 78.8 million Americans. In Michigan, 636,075 residents were affected by the breach.

"In this digital age, email scammers and cyber attackers are constantly attempting to steal personal information and we all must be on guard for new tactics, Nessel said. Moreover, the businesses and entities that possess our private information must implement safety measures prepared to withstand potential cyber attacks. When companies do not make every effort to protect our personal data, they must be held accountable.

Under the settlement, Anthem has agreed to a series of provisions designed to strengthen its security practices going forward. Those include:

A prohibition against misrepresentations regarding the extent to which Anthem protects the privacy and security of personal information;

Implementation of a comprehensive information security program, with regular security reporting to the Board of Directors and prompt notice of significant security events to the CEO;

Specific security requirements with respect to segmentation, logging and monitoring, anti-virus maintenance, access controls and two-factor authentication, encryption, risk assessments, penetration testing, and employee training, among other requirements; and

Third-party security assessments and audits for three years, as well as a requirement that Anthem make its risk assessments available to a third-party assessor during that term.

In the immediate wake of the breach, at the request of the Connecticut Office of the Attorney General, Anthem offered an initial two years of credit monitoring to all affected U.S. individuals.

In addition to this settlement, Anthem previously entered into a class-action settlement that established a $115 million fund to pay for additional credit monitoring, cash payments of up to $50 and reimbursement for out-of-pocket losses for affected consumers. The deadlines for consumers to submit claims under that settlement have since passed.

Attorney General Nessel is part of this settlement along with the attorneys general of Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, the District of Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Nevada, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin.

The Michigan Department of Attorney General has issued a consumer alert on email scams encouraging residents to beware of fraudulent emails and other attempts to steal personal and financial information.

###

Ryan Jarvi 517-599-2746 Attorney General
6 Essential Skills For Becoming A Self-Sufficient Musician

Being successful in an industry as challenging as the music business requires both versatility and adaptability. Here, we look at six key skills artists must master in order to achieve self-sufficiency.

Guest post by Gideon Waxman of The Bandzoogle Blog

The modern music industry requires artists today to be adaptable and versatile. The more skills you have, the more opportunities you will find to help pick up rewarding work. Therefore, the more you can diversify your music income.

But Im not only talking about musical skills. Bolstering yourself with a range of practical skills will also significantly improve your workflow, your creativity, and time management. Because being self-reliant means you dont have to depend on anybody else when producing, releasing, or monetizing your content.

Youll end up saving a lot of money and a lot of time in the long run, by not having to outsource specific processes that you can perform yourself.

The following are what I consider the six most essential skills for musicians to have today; skills that will help you create engaging content, enhance your online presence, and boost your earnings.

1. Music production

No matter what instruments you play, learning how to record and produce yourself will pay back in dividends. Its the single most important skill for any self-reliant musician wanting to be in complete control of the creative process.

And if that freaks you out even just a little bit, the good news is that 21st century recording technology is both accessible and affordable! All you need for a basic home studio is a computer to run a DAW such as Logic Pro, an audio interface, and a microphone, and youre ready to record!

Remember: Billie Eilishs chart topping debut album was in fact recorded in a bedroom. It proves that creativity and songs themselves are more important than the price of an expensive recording facility.

As with tackling any new skill theres a learning curve (you wont become Chris Lord-Alge overnight), but producing is one of the most fun and exciting things to play around with, and a lifelong endeavor. Not to mention, theres a plethora of education and advice online. Its incredibly rewarding to be able to bring your own creative vision to life.

Learn more: 4 tips to get started with home recording

2. Video production

If youve ever watched your favorite artists vlogging on YouTube, or streaming a live performance from their living room, you should already be aware of how important it is to be able to create engaging visual content. Not only is video a great way to engage your followers and find new fans, it can also earn you a monthly income; as in the case with Bandzoogles Fan Subscriptions, Patreon, and YouTube.

Learning how to capture footage and edit videos is no easy task, however, and the tools required are certainly not cheap either. But its one of those investments you make as early as you can, to save money, time, and headaches in the future.

Think about it: Hiring a professional videographer for a day to shoot, plus covering the cost of travel, and then having them edit, color grade, and bounce your final product, amounts to a small fortune. Thats not sustainable for an independent musician!

But not only does it save you a few bucks, being able to produce your own content is key to building and sustaining an active social media following and fanbase these days. Its one thing to pick up your phone and start an Instagram Live, but for content that invites and entices new audiences to tune in every week or month, youll need picture perfect video.

Pretty much all you need is a good quality DSLR. I myself own a Panasonic Lumix G7, which is a solid option on the market and I use DaVinci Resolvea free professional quality video editing suite. I also use LUTs, which are essentially drag-and-drop color grade filters for professional looking results.

Learn more: How to make a great looking DIY home performance video

3. Photography

You saw this coming, right? A great looking music website and social media hub begins with attractive, high-quality images that are consistent with your brand. If you already own a good DLSR camera for videography, then perfect. (See? Its already paying off!) If not, most smartphones are more than capable of capturing quality images that are suitable for web use.

But thats just the beginning. Youll need to at least learn basic photo editing skills too; such as: how to resize, touch up, and manipulate your images with text. Photopea is an awesome free online photo image editor that I like to use.

To capture peoples attention online in 2020, the presentation of your feed, video thumbnails, and website featured images all have to stand out from the crowd.

4. Decent writing ability

The pen is mightier than the sword is a well-known adage. No, we are not talking here about military might, but the essence of being able to write your way to a solution is just as appropriate here. A well-crafted email or press release can make all the difference between whether an album release or crowdfunding pledge falls on deaf ears or leads to sales.

Written communication extends way further than simple emails though. Your writing is how you share your message and vision to the world. And guess what, if you already spend time writing song lyrics, youre halfway there!

If you are selling a product such as your music, or a service such as lessons, tutorials, and paid session work, a compelling description will help to convince people that they should hire you. I personally help promote brands with gear reviews on my blog, and it brings in revenue, helps me network professionally, and gives me an avenue to practice my writing on an ongoing basis.

No matter the platform, excellent writing communicates your message with clarity and helps to build a powerful connection with those who are reading.

5. SEO (Search Engine Optimization)

SEO is all about optimizing your presence on different search engines, including Google and YouTube. There is a fine art to SEO, but thankfully Bandzoogle has compiled a practical SEO checklist which you can use to help your website rank online.

Its well and good having the most attractive website on the internet, but its not going to offer any value if nobody sees it. All that time and effort building bespoke tutorials for your web store will go to waste if it never receives any traffic. In order to rank on Google, your content must be ultra-relevant to particular search queries and keywords.

You will also need to build authority for your website, which also takes time, but can be achieved through collaborations and links back to your site. Search engines also track the length of time people read or view your content; these are indicators for quality and authority.

6. Marketing

While SEO is about ranking organically on search engines for particular search queries, marketing is all about building an audience through direct engagement with your target audience.

For lots of musicians, marketing can seem really challenging. Music is an art form that is personal and emotional, and promotion just feels icky or too businessy. But marketing is imbued into almost everything you do (your brand, your style, your mood and energy, your consistency) as well as being the first thing a new fan sees when they come across your music online.

So at the end of the day, do you want to be in charge of that yourself or do you want to let the record labels and executives deal with it? If you answered the former, youre more likely to become a self-sufficient artist in the long run. There are lots of different marketing strategies for musicians, and its best to avoid anything that seems too forced or feigned.

One effective way to engage with your fanbase is to build a community that feels exclusive. You can do this with your email list, by using a subscription-based platform, and in many other ways. Offer select content such as sneak peeks of new music, and limited runs of merchandise. Fans will appreciate being a part of your inner circle, and you will benefit from their loyalty and support.

Another great way to drive fan acquisition and engagement is to build a genuine connection with fans and superfans. This is always easier said than done, but you can make it part of your daily or weekly social media strategy, and start to see what works over time. Take that time to learn more about your fans, and find out what they love, who they are, and where theyre based. Ask them what they look forward to, and respond to comments and posts whenever possible.

Speaking of which, did we miss any skills you think are essential for musicians today? Let me know what you think!

-

Gideon Waxman is a London based drummer and music educator, who holds a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Westminster. You can find more of his advice over at Drum Helper  one of the webs most popular free online drumming resources.

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WASHINGTON  Tuesday nights presidential debate was dominated by chaos and crosstalk, especially as President Trump interrupted Democratic nominee Joe Biden, and moderator Chris Wallace struggled to maintain control.

But one moment of empathy broke through the muddle for some people watching: a spotlight Biden put on his son Hunters struggle with addiction.

My son, like a lot of people, like a lot of people you know at home, had a drug problem. Hes overtaken it. Hes fixed it. Hes worked on it, and Im proud of him, Biden said.

The moment came after Biden chastised Trump over disparaging comments the commander in chief had reportedly made toward the U.S. military. Biden brought up his late son Beau, a veteran who died of brain cancer in 2015. But before the former vice president could finish, Trump attacked Bidens other son, Hunter, who was discharged from the Navy after testing positive for cocaine in 2013.

I dont know Beau, Trump said. I know Hunter. Hunter got thrown out of the military. He was thrown out  dishonorably discharged. (Hunter Biden was not dishonorably discharged.)

Hunter Biden and then-Vice President Joe Biden in 2016. (Teresa Kroeger/Getty Images for World Food Program USA)

Trump continued on to allege that Hunter was able to secure a position on the board of directors of the Ukrainian natural gas company Burisma, and also able to secure a loan from the Bank of China for the investment firm Devon Archer, only because of his fathers political connections, a topic the president brings up frequently on the campaign trail. Biden ignored the charges and instead addressed the camera, speaking candidly about Hunters struggle with addiction.

Bidens frankness about his son is atypical, and he has tended to get touchy when asked about the topic on the campaign trail.

Yet advocates and experts agree that his candor might help draw welcome attention to the 20 million Americans who suffer from substance abuse disorder.

Vice President Bidens response of solidarity with his son showed that families can stick together and make it through a loved ones addiction or mental health concerns. It showed that families dont have to hide from addiction, said Fred Muench, a clinical psychologist and president of the Partnership to End Addiction, a national nonprofit.

Story continues

Muench continued: It showed that families can heal if they are supported. All too often politicians hide or deflect their personal or family histories of addiction. Biden was unapologetic in his support for his son as well as the pride he takes in how hard Hunter worked to overcome addiction. This is extremely empowering to those who are struggling and those in recovery. It shatters the stigma.

When you are struggling alone with addiction or sitting in fear because a loved one is struggling, hearing those words offers some hope.

Joe Biden drew praise for being candid and forthcoming about his son Hunter's struggle with addiction during Tuesday's presidential debate. (Patrick Semansky/AP)

Coping with mental illness and substance addiction is widespread, and often invisible. One in five Americans deal with mental health issues in any given year, and, according to data from the American Addiction Centers, the two struggles often co-occur. In 2017, one out of eight adults reportedly struggled with alcohol and drug use disorders simultaneously.

Trump has been open in the past about his own brother Fred Trump Jr.s struggle with alcoholism. His brother died in 1981 after a long battle with substance abuse, a death that the president once said was the toughest situation Ive had and affected everything that has come after it.

Daniel H. Gillison Jr., CEO of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), told Yahoo News that since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, his groups helpline has seen a 65 percent increase in calls and emails from people looking for help. (He stressed that NAMI is a nonprofit and unable to weigh in on candidates.)

While NAMI cannot comment on specific candidates, we know that discussing substance use and mental health conditions openly on such a national stage helps to get people talking about these issues and ultimately helps people feel more empowered to get the help they need, Gillison wrote. As a result of this collective crisis, more people are discussing their mental health challenges and vulnerabilities openly which helps normalize these conversations and destigmatizes mental health concerns.

President Trump attacked Democratic challenger Joe Biden over his son Hunter's struggle with addiction, and Biden's response won rave reviews. (Kevin Dietsch/UPI/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Paul Nestadt, the co-director of the Johns Hopkins Anxiety Disorders Clinic, thinks Bidens remarks might lighten the stigma those vulnerable Americans face at every turn.

For the millions of Americans struggling with substance dependence, it will be refreshing to hear Biden openly praise his son for his work to overcome addiction, Nestadt said. Stigma has been one of the major barriers to treatment in this country, but frank and honest conversations about drug use and recovery, especially coming from high-profile families, remains a powerful way to destigmatize drug dependence.

He continued: Thats a lot of families deciding how to deal with a loved one in crisis. Biden chose to applaud his sons successes, forgive his missteps and speak directly and honestly about the battle, all while presenting an example of victory. Hopefully this will inspire similar approaches in families across the country.

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Before Tuesdays presidential debate got underway, Erin Buckley Burnett and her husband made sure their two kids were safely tucked in bed. The family knew they could expect some form of PG-rated content when Joe Biden and Donald Trump took to the stage.

I would never let my own toddlers behave the way that the two presidential candidates conducted themselves, Buckley Burnett, a resident of Santa Monica who was born and raised in Ontario, said the next day. Her kids are aged four and two  perhaps a little too young to be exposed to the televised clash that she characterized as vicious, chaotic and offensive to the American peoples own intelligence.

Buckley Burnett is among thousands of Canadians, at home and abroad, who tuned in to watch the first debate between the incumbent Trump and Biden as they vie to occupy the White House for the next four years. Once the spectacle was underway, many people took to social media to express disappointment in the lack of civility from politicians looking to occupy arguably the most powerful job in the world. But none of what happened Tuesday should have come as a surprise, said Buckley Burnett.

As a policy wonk myself, policy matters and (the debate) lacked any educational component on any key issues and only highlighted their character, she said. My hope that it still encourages people to want to vote rather than disengage and tune out of the process.

Buckley Burnett is the co-president of the L.A.-based expat organization Canadians Abroad, one of the largest for Canadians anywhere. She said Canadians in the U.S. are following this election more closely than usual  tensions are extremely high due to ongoing protests against racial inequality, and the COVID-19 pandemic has made people more fearful of their health and job security. Some of her friends who used to live in the U.S. have returned back to Canada, while others are waiting to see what happens on Nov. 3  everything, she said, is on the line during this election.

One of the shocking things she has observed within American politics is how politicians in the U.S. dont shy away from dragging their opponents families into the mud  like how Trump attacked Bidens son Hunter, saying he had been dishonourably discharged from the military and had not held a job until Biden became vice-president, something that Biden vehemently rejected.

I dont think Americans are desensitized to lies and this level of abrasiveness, I think its making them more angry and my only hope is this can translate to the desire to get out and vote, she said.

David Ivkovic, another Canadian who moved to California in 2010, said his biggest takeaway from the debate was the contrast between the two candidates. Biden, he said, tried to answer questions with his policies and showed empathy to people with regards to the pandemic, while Trump did what Trump usually does: bully, cut his rival off, ramble and insult, without talking about any of his policies. And he did not address the people even once.

I understand Biden is just another old white guy, and it would have been nice to see a woman run for president again. But at least Biden brings with him the diversity and inclusive ideas that are missing right now, he said.

Ivkovic saw the early years of the Obama administration when the country was trying to recover from the recession, and it wasnt until 2016 during the Trump and Hillary Clinton campaigns that he started to see social tensions rise. At that time, Americans who didnt like Obama wanted a change, while others worried a Trump era would bring chaos and anarchy. The latter sentiment could not be more evident now, he said.

I feel we as a society have gotten to a point where we pick our side and nothing the other says will sway them, he said.

Some Trump supporters genuinely believe everything he says is the truth. Even when presented with facts to the contrary, they just write off the evidence as fake. Or they know he is lying, but are in so deep with him, their egos cant handle admitting they were wrong.

As a Canadian-American, Ivkovic said hes concerned the level of hateful divisiveness in America could spill over to Canada. Back in April, when a gunman went on a shooting rampage in Nova Scotia, he was surprised to see so many Canadians, especially on social media, getting upset that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was advocating for stricter gun control.

It seemed like these were NRA members arguing about something in the States. It was odd to see that type of rhetoric coming from Canadians, he said.

As for Trump insinuating he wouldnt leave office if he lost, Ivkovic said he has to believe that the presidents party would convince him to obey the rules of democracy.

But so much of what he does is irrational, he stokes his base to not believe verifiable facts. Someone who is so brainwashed by these ideas is unpredictable, so well just have to see, he said.

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In the recently released guidelines under the Unlock 5.0, government of India has announced to extend the ban on the international flights till October 31. The scheduled international flights to and from the country have been under suspension since March 23. Earlier, the overseas flights were suspended till September 30 under the Unlock 4.0 guidelines.

However, government will continue to operate international flights under the Air Bubble pact with various countries, including the US, UK, UAE and more. In total, government has an agreement with 13 different countries to ease the travel ban and allow free-flow of international flights from both the sides.

For countries where Air Bubble Agreement is not yet established, government is undertaking Vande Bharat Mission to repatriate stranded Indians.

Apart from international flights under Air Bubble pacts and Mission Vande Bharat, India is currently operating cargo flights and domestic flights facilitate travellers and goods movement across the country. While the domestic flights were also under ban, government gradually reopened the domestic routes in a calibrated manner, allowing 35 percent capacity of actual schedule.

Currently, domestic flights are running at 60 percent capacity of the original schedule. As for the Air Bubble agreement, India had initially established travel bubbles with countries like the United States, Germany and France. Since then, India has formed agreements with 13 nations in total including countries like Canada, Maldives, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Japan and more.

Recently, Lufthansa, one of the Europes largest air carrier and Germanys largest air carrier announced to cancel all flights to India starting till October 20 citing dispute with the centre. Lufthansa, in a statement said that Indian government has unexpectedly rejected the Lufthansas flight schedule despite prior agreement under the air bubble pact.
A man has been taken to hospital in critical condition after an alleged attack in Brisbane's south overnight.

Police say initial investigations suggest the 22-year-old was attacked after a group of people visited an Earle Street address in Greenslopes.

Police said the man was assisting detectives with their ongoing inquiries. Credit:Queensland Police Service

The man suffered wounds to his hand and abdominal region, a Queensland Ambulance Service spokesman said.

He was taken to the Princess Alexandra Hospital with critical injuries and later listed as stable.
The owner of a well-known Derry pub has tonight spoke of her 'upset' at the new Covid-19 restrictions which means she will have to close her business.

The Northern Ireland Executive today announced a raft of new measures in a bid to stop the rapid rise of the virus in the Derry City and Strabane District Council area.

The hospitality sector has been hit hard by the latest restrictions.

From next week, pubs, cafes, and restaurants in the local council area will only be allowed to offer takeaways or outdoor dining.

Hotels will only be allowed to provide services to their overnight guests and for wedding/funeral bookings.

There are a number of other restrictions being brought in after the local council area became one of the worst affected areas in the UK in relation to positive Covid-19 cases.

The new restrictions are being brought in for an initial two weeks period, but First Minister Arlene Foster said the situation would be reviewed on a weekly basis.

Susan Diggins, the owner of the Collon Bar in Derry, said she was 'so upset' by the new restrictions that she was 'compelled' to write to her MP, Colum Eastwood.

In her letter, which she has shared on her Facebook, Mrs Diggins described her pub as 'eminently Covid-ready'

She writes: I am very concerned by the latest interdiction placed on my business. I am concerned on three levels:

1. How accurate or indeed, trustworthy are the figures they are using to close an entire city's hospitality industry? It seems bizarre that our R rate is higher than that of Belfast, given the number of returning students and, of course, the much bigger population. Equally London is fine - really?

2. I have only been properly reopened for a matter of weeks and have invested heavily to ensure that we are entirely Covid compliant. If an architect were to design a bar for the Covid era, this would be it!

3. What am I to say to my staff? I have employed an entire new kitchen team to provide food to my customers and it is of a very high quality. What is to become of them?

The suggestion that we continue as a carry out or delivery service or indeed, the laughable outdoor dining option in October is a complete non starter.

Mrs Diggins finishes her letter to the local MP: I await your reply with interest, and would hope that you could fight our corner in this woeful imposition.

Speaking earlier today, Mr Eastwood said he understood the new restrictions will be 'challenging'.

People in our communities are naturally sociable, entrepreneurial and active. But they are absolutely necessary to relieve pressure on our health service and protect each other, he said.

Derry and Strabane has shown that it can step up when needed, it is now needed again and I know that people will do all that they can.

But this is a two way street, added the Foyle MP.

Government cannot restrict trading opportunities in the North West without additional support for businesses that will close and workers forced to be at home.

I will be pressing very strongly for a support package to meet the needs of people in Derry and Strabane who are being asked to make more sacrifices.
President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden clashed in Cleveland Tuesday in the first of three scheduled debates.

It was a testy affair, with both candidates talking over each other and slamming each other.

Trump entered the debate trailing Biden in opinion polls and was looking to the debates as a chance to reverse his fortunes.

Who do you think won the debate? Vote in the informal, unscientific poll below.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.

Jonathan D. Salant may be reached at jsalant@njadvancemedia.com.
More than 100 million infections of Zika virus within Central and South America and the Caribbean went undetected between 2015 and 2018, according to a new study.

The University of Notre Dame researchers who conducted the study, published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases, said the results show a need for improvements to current infectious disease surveillance systems. The study also provides insight into the potential severity of future outbreaks and the current state of herd immunity of Zika in the West.

"Fewer than 1 percent of cases were actually reported and it shows our surveillance systems catch only a small percentage of actual infections," said Sean Moore, research assistant professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Notre Dame and lead author of the study. "We need to think about how to improve surveillance systems to get a better sense of transmission, especially in cases of diseases that yield a high number of asymptomatic infections."

The first confirmed case of Zika in the Americas was reported in Brazil in 2015, with infection spreading rapidly, reaching as far north as Florida and Puerto Rico. In 2016 the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the epidemic a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

The Pan American Health Organization, which serves as an international agency for the Americas and a regional office of the WHO, totaled symptomatic infections of Zika at more than 800,000 between 2015 and 2018 -- a number far below the results of the Notre Dame study. Moore's team estimated 132.3 million infections across Latin America and the Caribbean, having collected data from 15 countries and territories in South America, Central America and the Caribbean with a combined total population of 507.1 million.

"There are some similarities to the current situation with COVID-19," Moore said. "Between 20 and 50 percent of Zika infections are asymptomatic. Even when symptoms are present, they tend to be mild, so if the infection is not severe enough for an individual to seek medical attention, those cases can go undiagnosed."

Understanding the scope of underreporting is particularly important to gain an accurate sense of herd immunity in the region. Once infected, individuals who recover from Zika virus are believed to have lifelong immunity, Moore said. While cases have dropped substantially since 2018, a remaining concern is the potential for future outbreaks.

"Our research suggests a need for a better understanding of how much transmission is happening within a community," said Moore. "The risk of congenital birth defects in pregnant women infected with Zika virus required a separate surveillance system -- testing both the mother and the baby -- to capture a more accurate indicator of underlying transmission. Without widescale testing and a comprehensive system like that, we can miss how large an outbreak is in the general population."

A recent study co-authored by Moore and colleagues at Notre Dame found that gaps in surveillance and limited testing resulted in more than 100,000 coronavirus infections in the United States that went undetected in the early months of the pandemic.

###

Co-authors of the study include Alex Perkins, Rachel J. Oidtman, Amir S. Siraj and K. James Soda at Notre Dame; Christopher Barker at the University of California Davis and Robert C. Reiner Jr. at the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation.

The study was funded by the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation with support from the Department of Defense's Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). Moore and Perkins are both affiliates of Notre Dame's Eck Institute for Global Health and the Environmental Change Initiative.
Huawei Technologies Ghana has opened applications for its global flagship Corporate Social Responsibility Program Seeds for the Future 2020, set to commence from October 26, 2020, to October 30, 2020, in partnership with the Ministry of Communication, Ministry of Education, UNESCO, National Council of Tertiary Education, University of Ghana, KNUST and Ghana Communications Technology University (GCTU).



The Ghana Sky Seed for the Future Program which seeks to develop local ICT talents, enhance knowledge transfer, promote a greater understanding of the telecommunications sector, and improve regional building and participation in the digital community has benefitted 60 university graduates since its inception in Ghana in 2015.

This year, Huawei is offering slots for up to 50 students outstanding students in the bid to engage all universities offering STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) related courses in Ghana. As part of efforts to champion Girls in ICT, Huawei is encouraging more female students to apply.





This years program will focus more on advanced courses like IoT, Cybersecurity, Digital Trade, Digital Economy; Leadership Courses like Cross-Cultural Management, Strategic Management, and Leadership Skills as well as other open ecosystem courses.



The intensive five days program which will be held online will provide an open ecosystem that supports online learning and engagement. The program is in line with the digitization strategies of many countries helps cultivate a pool of ICT professionals that are crucial to industry development, thus boosting ICT industry growth and contributing to lower unemployment rates over the long term.



Participants will have the opportunity to meet and connect with Ministers of State and top Officials from leading Universities and International Organizations. They will also take part in a series of virtual tech talks with professionals in the tech space and a virtual tour of the Huawei Head Quarters in China to learn more about latest technologies.



Participants of the 2020 Huawei Ghana Sky Seeds for the Future program will receive free Data to take part in all activities and courses as well as get to opportunity to receive various surprises in form of gifts and rewards ranging from Huawei Smartphones, Shopping Vouchers, free Huawei ICT Academy Enrollment among others.



Figure 3: 2019 Ghana Seeds for the Future Beneficiaries on a trip to the Great Wall of China

To participate in this years program, interested persons must:



1. Be a University Student, 2nd Year (Level 200) upwards and must be offering STEM-related courses



2. Fill out the Application Form (fill all areas digitally by typing) also insert a digital photo in the forms. (Contact your local Huawei Academy Rep or Ambassador for Application forms)



3. Submit a 250 - 400-words essay or a 2mins video of yourself elaborating;

i. Motivation to pursue an ICT/Engineering related degree?

ii. Career goal for future?

iii. Perception and knowledge of China and Huawei?



All applications can be sent via email to [email protected] The application form can also be made available upon request via the provided email.



Deadline for submission of all applications and all required document is Friday, 16th October, 2020 05:00pm Ghana time (1500HRS GMT).



For more information visit: https://www.huawei.com/minisite/seeds-for-the-future/index.html

Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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.

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Maksym Kozitskiy, head of the Lviv Regional State Administration, turned to the police after an anti-Semitic inscription was discovered on the advertising board of the Servant of the People political party.

UNIAN correspondents were informed about this by the United Jewish Community of Ukraine.

The head of the Lviv Regional State Administration categorically condemned the incident, calling the incident xenophobic in content. He turned to the police with a demand to open criminal proceedings on the fact of violation of Article 161 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine - violation of the equality of citizens depending on their race, nationality, religious beliefs, disability and other characteristics.

An election campaign is underway in Ukraine. Various technologies are used, including black PR. Moreover, some do not even shun anti-Semitic appeals.

As the head of the Lviv Regional State Administration, I categorically condemn such actions, which are xenophobic in their content. And here party affiliation does not matter.

We must all remember that we live in a multinational and multi-religious country. Therefore, such things today are wild.

Metropolitan Andrey Sheptytsky, a great beacon of the Ukrainian people, often met with representatives of the Jewish community. When the rabbi greeted him, he answered him in Hebrew and called him a brother by faith. Let us remember today about the posture and science of our great countryman.

I personally appealed to law enforcement agencies regarding the initiation of criminal proceedings under Article 161 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, in connection with incitement of national, religious enmity and hatred and humiliation of national honor and dignity. "

Earlier in Lviv, a board was found with the words "there will be no Yids, as you decide." Unknown people added the words "No Yids" to the political slogan of the party.

The United Jewish Community of Ukraine found out the whereabouts of the damaged billboard and immediately reported the incident to the Servant of the People cell in Lviv.

Representatives of the political party went to the scene and found that the anti-Semitic inscription had been erased. In the Lviv cell of the Servants of the People made a promise to respond and turn to law enforcement agencies, which was done by Maksym Kozitskiy.
One of those trustees, the Ford Foundation president Darren Walker, implied that the power of Gustons art, and the scholarship the curators have brought to bear upon it, was no longer of principal importance. What those who criticize this decision do not understand, Mr. Walker said last week, is that in the past few months the context in the U.S. has fundamentally, profoundly changed on issues of incendiary and toxic racist imagery in art, regardless of the virtue or intention of the artist who created it.

Put aside, at least for now, the calumny that Gustons imagery is toxic. Put aside that it is wrong to censor any artist, toxic or not. Just on its face, Mr. Walkers stance would exclude from our museums many of the open letters signatories, whose virtue or intention is not in question. Mr. Taylor, who has painted wrenching scenes of police brutality, or Pope.L, whose performances have regurgitated prejudices of Black men in messy and abject forms, might both be barred from exhibiting publicly if Mr. Walkers doctrine became the norm. (I dont even think the National Gallerys current, excellent show Degas at the Opera  with depictions of what we would now call child prostitution, by the toxic Impressionist par excellence  could survive such scrutiny.)

Museums have faced frequent calls for accountability lately, but remember, the postponement of the Guston show is not a case of overreaction to protest. There has been no public outcry, and no contention that the curators sold the work short. This is a precancellation: a case of institutions running scared from phantasms, recoiling from their missions, assuming that their public is too clueless to look and think. Gustons Klan paintings indeed require interpretation, education and public outreach  but that is precisely the job of museums at all times. It should not require four years of runway, and for the National Gallery and its partners to say it does counts as a breathtaking admission that they are not up to the job.

For as the artists suggest in their open letter, the reason to reinstate Philip Guston Now is not, or certainly not only, because he passes some anti-racist litmus test. It is to continue and accelerate the transformation of our museums into institutions that can do justice to the work of all artists and the experiences of all publics. A museum unequipped to exhibit Guston will never be able to show truly problematic artists like Paul Gauguin or Francis Picabia  but just as inevitably it will fail Mr. Barneys mythopoetic melding of bodies, Ms. Jonass culturally hybrid meditations on gender and climate, Ms. Pipers exacting probes of self and stereotypes.

Really, a museum unequipped to exhibit Guston is barely a museum at all, or else only a museum in the most derogatory sense: a dusty storehouse of dead things.

This week, at the first presidential debate, the incumbent was asked if he would condemn white supremacy outright. His response was to tell one of these white supremacist groups to stand back and stand by. It was only the latest reminder that our art institutions cannot afford anything less than a united front against racism and anti-Semitism, and should not be spooked by their own shadows when actual hatred is already at the gates. Its not too late to reverse this decision, which is shaping up to be an even worse misdeed than the 1989 cancellation of Robert Mapplethorpes The Perfect Moment at the Corcoran Gallery of Art: worse because the censorship has come not from philistines outside the museums walls but from those within.
While sadly, involuntary furloughs begin today, we havent given up, the airline said in a statement. In a continuing effort to give the federal government every opportunity to act, we have made clear to leadership in the Administration, Congress and among our union partners that we can and will reverse the furlough process if the CARES Act Payroll Support Program is extended in the next few days. We implore our elected leaders to reach a compromise, get a deal done now, and save jobs.


BRUSSELS/FRANKFURT/PARIS (dpa-AFX) - Euro area producer prices continued to fall in August, though the pace of decline slowed more-than-expected, preliminary data from Eurostat showed on Thursday.



Producer prices on the domestic market decreased 2.5 percent year-on-year following a 3.1 percent fall in July, which was revised from 3.3 percent. Economists had forecast a 2.7 percent decline.



In the energy sector, producer prices decreased 8.7 percent and in the intermediate goods industry, they fell 1.9 percent. Prices rose 0.3 percent for non-durable consumer goods and by 0.8 percent for capital goods. They increased 1.5 percent in the durable consumer goods industry.



Excluding energy, producer prices decreased 0.4 percent year-on-year in August.



Compared to the previous month, producer prices edged up 0.1 percent in August after a 0.7 percent increase in July, which was revised from 0.6 percent. The rise was in line with economists' expectations.



In the EU, the producer price index fell 2.3 percent annually in August after a 2.9 percent decline in the previous month. On a month-on-month basis, producer prices rose 0.2 percent after a 0.6 percent increase in July.



The monthly increase was the third in a row for both Eurozone and the EU.



Among the EU members, the biggest decreases in industrial producer prices were observed in Lithuania, Latvia and Italy, while prices rose only in Malta, Hungary and Slovenia.



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

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Permit me space to put my thoughts through, as a citizen of Ahafo resident in Ahafo with great familiarity on the happenings in the Ahafo Region.

WHO CREATED AHAFO REGION

The region was created by the Chiefs who were the primary advocates for its creation and the people who partook in the referendum to create the region. All political parties ie The NDC and The NPP (the dominant political parties in the region) took part in the education of the citizens of Ahafo on the need and benefits of an independent Ahafo.

AHAFO IS THE MOST RESOURCED REGION IN GHANA

Ask me for a region with most natural resources in Ghana and I will take you on a tour of Ahafo.

Gold: Every part, town and village in Ahafo is a potential Gold Mine. From the globally renowned Gold Extraction Firm, Newmont Goldcorp to the scores of Small Scale Mining Firms and the local Galamsey workers, mining is a real source of employment. From Derma to Techire, Yamfo to Ntotroso, Kenyasi to Nkasiem, gold is what will welcome you.

Timber: The number of thriving Sawmills that will greet you in Ahafo and/or the number of sawned timber you meet when entering Ahafo will signal your presence into Ghana's most vibrant Forest Region.

Cocoa: The fertile lands contributes to the Cocoa economy of Ghana.

Plantain: We are the headquarters of Ghana's plantain industry.

The above economic reasons coupled with our growing population culminated in the Ahafo Region.

DECENTRALIZATION

Some very self-seeking partisan assembly members by means of their affiliation to the NPP are blinded by partisanship to forget that with a landscape of 5193kmsq.

ELECTED ASSEMBLY MEMBER

Tano North: 32

Tano South: 39

Asunafo South: 32

Asunafo North: 29

Asutifi North: 24

Asutifi South: 23

If less than 20 assembly members with NPP Party Card gather for normal party meeting and invite the media to be present, does it represent a fraction or better still, half the opinion of the total number of assembly members? Names like Hon. Jones Anto-Afriyie, the Constituency Secretary of the NPP in Asunafo North and Assembly Member of the Fawoyeden Electoral Area addresses a press conference of the magnitude, what impact does it make?

LACK OF STRATEGY

The sheer display of political infantry makes one question the quality of input they put in running assembly decision taking. No wonder the Asutifi North District Assembly is up till date, without a Presiding Member.

DUTIES OF ASSEMBLY MEMBERS

In my region, an assembly member is equivalent to full time job. One would be asked for funds to support hospital bills, school fees, accommodation for visitors, serve as adjudicator in community matters from theft to road accidents, automatic Chairmen for festive occasions like naming ceremony, wedding and graduation.

How would an unpaid assemblyman fund these activities?

Aside the motorcycles given to members by all governments, the member is supposed to be frequent at Assembly Meetings, lobbying for projects for his people. Their work is much more tedious than the Member of Parliament.

AHAFO ASSEMBLY MEMBERS DESERVES TO BE PAID

With hindsight and for-knowledge of the challenges Assembly Members in the region face, I will continue to advocate that the next President of the Republic of Ghana fulfills his promise of paying them monthly salaries.

Edem Koku Edem,

Ahafo-Goaso.

[email protected]
The priest almost ran out of Communion wafers for the churchgoers who gathered for the reopening of the Sts. Peter and Paul Church on Wednesday.

Mark Diamond, a priests assistant, hurried from the altar to retrieve more wafers, and a crisis was averted.

There were nine parishioners in the pews.

It was the first day since the pandemic began that the North Beach church and other places of worship were sanctioned by the city to hold indoor ceremonies at a maximum 25% capacity. Sts. Peter and Paul has held unsanctioned ceremonies, however, including an unauthorized wedding that infected several attendees with coronavirus.

The church was one of the few places of worship around San Francisco that opened its doors after officials gave the go-ahead Tuesday. San Francisco reached the orange tier of the states color-coded blueprint for recovery, reflecting a moderate risk of coronavirus spread, affording it leeway to reopen  with mandatory safety measures.

Other religious communities took a more tentative approach. Many mosques plan to wait until at least Friday to reopen for indoor prayers. Other places of worship may skip indoor services altogether, choosing to remain virtual instead, said Michael G. Pappas, executive director of the San Francisco Interfaith Council.

Paul Chinn / The Chronicle

With the exception of the Catholic and Orthodox Christian churches, the overwhelming majority of faith leaders are not in a rush to open their doors, Pappas said. A lot will continue with online worship because they dont have capacity to monitor and enforce distancing, or their congregants are older and vulnerable.

The reopening came as a relief to many parishioners after a bitter fight between the city and the archdiocese over reopening discrepancies between secular and religious activities.

Albert Mung, who was one of the nine people to attend Wednesdays Mass at Sts. Peter and Paul, said he prefers worshiping in-person to watching the online broadcast.

As a believer, I think it is better to have a close relationship with God, doing what we can, safely, he said.

Mung and the other eight parishioners did not come close to filling the cavernous church, whose appearance was altered in accordance with city and state regulations. Holy water basins were dry. Pews were blocked off with bright blue painters tape. A hand sanitizer dispenser stood in the aisle.

The priest led Mass unmasked, but donned one to give communion. He declined a request for an interview.

Diamond, who assisted the priest, said he thought the Mass went smoothly  aside from the wafer miscalculation  and was pleased to see parishioners following mask and distancing guidelines.

We want to welcome people back and assure them of their safety, he said following the service.

But not everyone is satisfied. Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone called the state limit of 100 parishioners unjust and said his campaign to loosen restrictions on religious services will continue.

We will not accept believers being treated more severely than other, comparable secular activities, the archbishop said in a statement Tuesday.

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.

The archdiocese seemed to court controversy throughout the pandemic, as priests around the city continued to hold indoor prayer sessions despite mandates requiring only small outdoor religious services. City officials sent the archdiocese a cease-and-desist order in July. Sts. Peter and Paul received at least three reprimands from the city attorneys office in addition to the wedding.

Masjid Noor Al Islam is one of several mosques in the city that will host in-person prayer on Friday for the first time since March. The gathering for the Jumuah midday prayer will be a test run for the congregation, said Gehad Morsy, the mosques youth coordinator.

The Tenderloin mosque removed its carpets and is requiring that congregants bring their own prayer rugs. Its just one of many steps the mosque is taking to prevent contamination from touching the floor during prayer, Morsy said.

Morsy said the Interfaith Council and the affiliated Faith Based Roundtable have been invaluable resources for navigating the copious number of reopening restrictions. She attends the organizations weekly webinars for the faith community, which she said help cut through the governmental jargon and provide clarification when needed.

Churches, mosques, synagogues and other religious spaces can play important roles in cultivating community amid the crisis, so long as it is done safely, Pappas said.

No congregation wants to be the source of a surge, he said.

Nora Mishanec is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: nora.mishanec@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @NMishanec
RIDLEY PARK, Pa., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Readers of the Delaware County Daily Times look forward to July each year so that they can cast their ballots for "Best of Delco". Amidst a pandemic, this year was no different as votes were collected online. "Best of Delco" is a chance for the community to show thanks to our local restaurants, salons, cleaners, bars, and yes, financial institutions.

BHCU expanded membership eligibility in 2015, allowing them to provide financial services to the entire Delaware County community. "This is the first year that we are being honored with the top spot," says Ryan Conte, Head of Member Experience. "It feels good to be recognized in this regard just five years into being open to Delco. Our dedication to the community we serve shows thru smart financial services, commitment to the success of local businesses, and supporting local causes, specifically thru the BHCU Kids Foundation."

The entire team at BHCU knows that this WIN is primarily due to member support. "We have the best members," continues Conte. "Our individual and small business members are not customers; they are family. It's great that we are supporting one another in success."

What's going to happen in 2021? The BHCU team is not banking on a repeat, but they plan to invest in their relationship with the community and build upon member services. With that winning formula, the prospects are good.

About BHCU

BHCU, Your Delaware County Credit Union, was founded in 1952 in Ridley Park. As a federally insured credit union, BHCU provides comprehensive banking services to its members. Although initially established to serve Boeing's employees (then Vertol) and their family members, BHCU has expanded into a community-based credit union that is able to serve all of the families and businesses of Delaware County. BHCU has consistently maintained a commitment to helping members save by offering excellent rates and dividends while extending fair fees and expert advice. Can BHCU help you find financial independence? Learn more at www.bhcu.org

About the BHCU Kids Foundation

Established and chartered in 2019, the BHCU Kids Foundation is a registered 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization administered by a volunteer Board of Directors. The BHCU Kids Foundation began with a simple mission of strengthening the Delaware County community by seeking to provide programs and support for our most at-risk youth, with the full knowledge and understanding that they are our future. In our first initiative, the BHCU Kids Foundation has partnered with The Community's Foundation ("TCF") to endow the Hope for Children Fund, which will provide direct services to the most vulnerable among us, abused and neglected children.

SOURCE BHCU
New York, Oct 1 : Researchers have demonstrated that an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm could be trained to classify Covid-19 pneumonia in computed tomography (CT) scans with up to 90 per cent accuracy.

Also, it correctly identifies positive cases 84 per cent of the time and negative cases 93 per cent of the time.

The study, recently published in Nature Communications, shows the new technique can also overcome some of the challenges of current testing.

"We demonstrated that a deep learning-based AI approach can serve as a standardized and objective tool to assist healthcare systems as well as patients," said study author Ulas Bagci from the University of Central Florida in the US.

"It can be used as a complementary test tool in very specific limited populations, and it can be used rapidly and at large scale in the unfortunate event of a recurrent outbreak," Bagci added.

According to the researchers, CT scans offer a deeper insight into Covid-19 diagnosis and progression as compared to the often-used reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, or RT-PCR, tests.

These tests have high false-negative rates, delays in processing and other challenges.

Another benefit to CT scans is that they can detect Covid-19 in people without symptoms, in those who have early symptoms, during the height of the disease and after symptoms resolve.

However, CT is not always recommended as a diagnostic tool for Covid-19 because the disease often looks similar to influenza-associated pneumonia on the scans.

The new co-developed algorithm can overcome this problem by accurately identifying Covid-19 cases, as well as distinguishing them from influenza, thus serving as a great potential aid for physicians, the researchers said.

To perform the study, the researchers trained a computer algorithm to recognize Covid-19 in lung CT scans of 1,280 multinational patients from China, Japan and Italy.

Then they tested the algorithm on CT scans of 1,337 patients with lung diseases ranging from Covid-19 to cancer and non-Covid pneumonia.

When they compared the computer's diagnoses with ones confirmed by physicians, they found that the algorithm was extremely proficient in accurately diagnosing Covid-19 pneumonia in the lungs and distinguishing it from other diseases, especially when examining CT scans in the early stages of disease progression.

"We showed that robust AI models can achieve up to 90 per cent accuracy in independent test populations, maintain high specificity in non-Covid-19 related pneumonia, and demonstrate sufficient generalizability to unseen patient populations and centres," Bagci said.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Amnesty: Tunisian president view on death penalty wrong 'Moratorium on executions, in view of abolishing death penalty'

(ANSAmed) - TUNIS, OCTOBER 1 - Tunisian President Kais Saied said he is in favour of applying the death penalty in the recent case of a young woman's murder, which has restarted a debate in the country over capital punishment after a nearly three-decade moratorium. Amnesty International, in particular, said it is "shocked" by Saied's position.



Amna Guellali, Amnesty International's Deputy Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa, said, "Tunisia has not carried out any execution since 1991. The president's announcement in favour of the death penalty is shocking and contravenes the decades-long established practice of not carrying out executions. President Saied is the first president to ever announce intentions to implement death sentences in Tunisia".



"Resuming executions would be a slap in the face of all the human rights progress that the country has made so far. We urge the Tunisian president to immediately reverse his disturbing announcement which would take Tunisia's human rights record backwards instead of forward. We also call on the Tunisia government to immediately establish an official moratorium on executions with a view to abolishing the death penalty," Guellali said.



"Without a doubt, murder is an abhorrent crime and perpetrators should face justice. But however horrible the crimes committed are, there should be no excuse to kill a human being," Guellali said.



The murder that restarted the debate is that of 29-year-old Rahma, who disappeared after leaving work and was found dead last week near the highway between the capital city of Tunis and the residential neighbourhood of Marsa.



A suspect was arrested immediately and confessed that he killed her and stole her cell phone, according to information released by the interior ministry.



Since Tunisia gained its independence in 1956 it has carried out 135 death sentences, of which 129 under the first president of the Republic, Habib Bourguiba.



No executions have been carried out since 1991.(ANSAmed) (ANSA).




Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said any stimulus deal would send another round of $1,200 in direct cash payments to millions of Americans.

On Wednesday evening, Mnuchin said any stimulus agreement would include more direct payments for American taxpayers.

During an interview on Fox Business, Mnuchin reiterated the Trump administration's opposition to the $2.2 trillion economic relief plan that the Democratic negotiators were pressing for and said they prioritized getting everyone back to work instead.

But Mnuchin said an agreement was struck with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi that an economic relief package will include federal checks for eligible individuals.

"We have reached an agreement that if there will be a deal, there are direct payments same to last time that are in the package," the Treasury Secretary said.

Mnuchin added that the White House was seeking to give more federal aid to schools, small businesses, and additional funds to COVID-19 testing and tracing.

"If there is a fair compromise, we're prepared to do it... There are a lot of areas where we have an agreement on," Mnuchin noted.

Mnuchin's statement is a sign that the White House might be inching towards an agreement with Democrats as both sides strive for common ground on new economic relief, as per Business Insider.

On Wednesday, Mnuchin met with Pelosi in Capitol Hill for the first time since talks collapsed in August. The two have been negotiating for four days.

If a last-minute deal is reached between Democrats and the White House, it's unclear if Republicans in the Senate would support the agreement, which would likely carry a price tag that is $1.5 trillion or above.

Many GOP senators opposed the spending proposals that would increase the federal debt. Lawmakers have approved over $3 trillion in federal aid since the pandemic began.

Early last month, a "skinny" relief plan from Republicans that include only $300 billion in new spending sparked significant opposition within their party. The plan omitted direct payments keeping the cost of the package down.

The CNN reported that the Democrats prepared a House vote on their $2.2 trillion spending package on Wednesday evening. However, the party pushed it back until Thursday hoping to have more time for an agreement with the White House.

The Democratic plan is unlikely to become a law given staunch GOP opposition.

On Wednesday, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell tore into the new House Democrat's plan, saying it was "outlandish" and the amount was "too high."

President Donald Trump and Congress approved in March the $1,200 relief checks for many American adults plus an additional $500 for each dependent under the age of 17 through the CARES Act.

Those who qualified for full payment are those earning below $75,000 a year. The threshold for married couples was $150,000. Trump has long backed sending another round of direct payments.

Check these out:

COVID-19 Stimulus Talks Deadline Finally Set on Noon Wednesday, Democrats Say

Stimulus Checks Might Be Released Mid-October Once Pelosi, Mnuchin Reached a Deal

Heroes Act 2.0: New Stimulus Package, Inclusions
Hongkongers Defy Police Ban, Protest on Chinas National Day

This article has been updated with the latest information.

At least 86 people have been arrested in Hong Kong as local police broke up scattered protests on Oct. 1, which marks the 71st anniversary of the Chinese Communist Partys takeover of China.

Police said in a statement late on Thursday that at least 86 people were arrested from the site of protests around the city, on charges such as participating in unauthorized assemblies, possessing offensive weapons, and other allegations.

Among those arrested were four district councilors. The Hong Kong edition of The Epoch Times identified two of them as Lee Yue-shun and Fergus Leung.

The Causeway Bay district, where 74 were arrested, was the proposed starting point of a planned march organized by local pro-democracy group Civil Human Rights Front (CHRF). Police banned the march, arguing that mass gatherings of people during the pandemic could pose a grave threat to public health.

Hong Kong has a total of 5,088 COVID-19 cases as of Sept. 30. The city has seen a steady decline of infection cases since early September, registering 65 cases between Sept. 17 and 23, and 38 cases from Sept. 24 to 30. COVID-19 is the disease caused by the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus, commonly known as the novel coronavirus.

CHRF initially organized the march to call for the release of 12 Hongkongers currently being held in southern Chinas Shenzhen city. While traveling on a boat, they were intercepted and arrested by Chinese authorities off the coast of southern Chinas Guangdong Province. Hong Kong media reported that they were sailing to Taiwan in a bid to obtain political asylum there.

It is an annual tradition for Hongkongers to protest Beijings rule on Oct. 1, with activists noting that Chinas national day is not a day of celebration, but a time to reflect on the tragic events that have taken place since the Communist Party seized power in mainland China in 1949, such as the Tiananmen Square massacre of student protesters in 1989.

On Thursday morning, four members of the local party League of Social Democrats marched to Sai Ying Pun holding a banner with the words, There is no national day celebration, only national mourning and End one-party dictatorship.

Large numbers of police officers began gathering in Causeway Bay before 2 p.m. local time, which was the proposed starting time of the CRHF march.

Police searched pedestrians, pushed and shoved journalists covering the protests, and dispersed crowds, while repeatedly raising flags warning people that they could be arrested for illegal gatherings or violating the newly-implemented national security law.

Beijings national security law punishes vaguely-defined crimes such as secession and subversion with a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. The law went into effect late on June 30 despite international concerns that the law would crush basic freedoms in Hong Kong.

Despite the heavy police presence, protesters shouted popular slogans such as Five Demands, Not One Less, and Liberate Hong Kong, Revolution of Our Time.

On July 2, the Hong Kong government banned the latter protest slogan, saying it violated the security law due to its connotations of Hong Kong independence, or a Hong Kong that is separate from mainland China.

Hong Kong, a former British colony, returned to Chinese rule in 1997. Beijing promised to retain the citys autonomy and freedoms, but international critics and locals say the security law has spelled the end for Hong Kongs liberties.

A person dressed as North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, while holding a balloon in the shape of a missile, showed up in Causeway Bay to show support for protesters. The balloon was decorated with a piece of paper that read, [Expletive] the Communist Party. His presence drew applause from gathering protesters.

Late Thursday evening, some protesters climbed up the Lion Rock mountain and shone lights with protest messages. Police then began restricting people from accessing the area.

The city has seen tumultuous protests against Beijing since millions took to the streets in June last year to oppose a since-scrapped extradition bill. But the pandemic, coupled with fears of arrest under the security law, have diminished protesters presence.

On Sept. 29, Hong Kong police announced on its Facebook page that 10,022 people have been arrested from the site of protests from June 9, 2019 to Sept. 15 this year. Among those arrested, 2,227 have been charged, for crimes such as rioting and illegal assembly.
Rahul Gandhi was beaten by police as he attempted to travel to the victim's home district of Hathras - Chandan Khanna/AFP

Two prominent leaders of Indias opposition Congress Party were attacked and arrested by police on Thursday while trying to visit the family of a gang rape victim whose death has sparked nationwide protests.

Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi claim their convoy was stopped by police in Greater Noida, a satellite city on the outskirts of New Delhi, before he was beaten with wooden sticks known as lathi and wrestled to the ground.

Footage shared on social media by Mr Gandhis team shows police pushing him, after which he appears to fall.

Just now, police pushed me, lathi-charged me and threw me to the ground, Mr Gandhi told Asian News International.

I want to ask, can only Modi-ji walk in this country? Cant a normal person walk? Our vehicle was stopped so we started walking.

The Congress Party has condemned the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the brutal gang rape of the 20-year-old Dalit woman, who died from her injuries on Tuesday after fighting for her life for two weeks.

The opposition party argues the BJP has not done enough to ensure womens safety in India, where 91 women are raped each day.

Protesters have taken to the streets since the gang rape demanding more protection for India's women - Sivaram V/Reuters

Dalit, formerly known as lower-caste women, are particularly vulnerable as they receive little protection from Indias judicial system.

Since the victims death, members of the Dalit community in her home district of Hathras in Uttar Pradesh have clashed with the police, leading to 25 arrests.

The arrests came as a second Dalit woman died after being gang raped in Uttar Pradesh. Her mother told the BBC on Thursday that the 22-year-old woman had been walking to register for admission at a local school before being attacked.

The police have not explained why they arrested the Gandhis but they were travelling in a convoy and as of this morning, emergency laws in the Hathras district forbade gatherings of over four people.

A senior Congress Party politician told the Telegraph the arrests were a politically motivated attempt to stop the Gandhis reaching Hathras.

Story continues

Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi being detained when they wished to meet with the family of the victim of a most gruesome crime and express their solidarity against the injustice is part of the larger pattern of creeping authoritarianism in India from Parliament to the streets, said Jairam Ramesh, an MP and Chief Whip of the Congress Party.

The brutal rape of the Dalit woman in Hathras has spawned protests across India, with parallels drawn with the 2012 Nirbhaya case in New Delhi.

Unrest is expected to continue this evening after the Indian media reported the death of a second Dalit woman in Uttar Pradesh, who was allegedly gang raped in a village 310 miles away from Hathras on Tuesday.
BEIJING, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- China's General Administration of Customs on Thursday suspended accepting import applications related to a Brazilian beef producer for a week, after a sample of an imported beef package tested positive for the novel coronavirus.

The affected sample was from a batch of frozen boneless beef that came from the producer, identified as "MINERVA S.A," and the emergency measure has been announced as a precaution, the administration said in a statement.
Dug-outs Downstream in PNG

Story by Tony Robinson-Smith, photos by Nadya Ladouceur

Can a hollowed-out tree trunk get you down a crocodile-infested tropical river in Papua New Guinea? Two Canadians find out.

Coated in sweat, chests heaving, we arrive at the village late in the afternoon. Nadya and I shrug off our packs and shake the hand of a sinewy man with a shaved head, a short beard wound into a spike, and tribal scars resembling crocodile scales corrugating his back. His hut with its stilt legs and sagging sago-palm roof is the one closest to the river. Beneath it, driven into the ground like spears, are three paddles with long shafts and pointed blades. Tom, Fice, Kingston, and Alex, the four local high school students accompanying us, have told the man what we want. Yanking out one of the paddles, he leads us down a narrow dirt path.

Naked boys are flinging themselves off the four-meter riverbank and shrieking as their bodies smack the churning, brown water below. One plasters himself from head to foot in mud before coming to look us over. The Dio, a tributary of the Sepik, is about fifty meters wide and bordered by tall grasses and a rich tangle of vine-throttled trees. I see a pair of seven-meter-long dug-outs with outboard engines nestled against the near bank. Not what we are after. The man tells us to take a seat on a log. Young barefoot mothers in flowery dresses join us, carrying babies on their hips. They are also looking to go downstream.

Transportation in a Land With No Roads

My wife and I arrived in Papua New Guinea a week ago, hoping to paddle the length of the Sepik in a traditional canoe. It was our first time here, and we knew no one. But in Vanimo on the north coast, we met a headmaster willing to give us a ride to his school buried in the jungle a hundred and fifty kilometers inland. The students were about to return to their home villages for Easter, he told us, some of which were on the Sepik. They could help us paddle. I wasn't so sure. The ones going our way were in Grade 10, meaning they were fifteen or sixteen years old. What if the dug-out capsized or sprang a leak? Would they know what to do?

What if we ran into a hostile tribe on the way? PNG had a reputation for violence; pirates were active on the Sepik. What about fending off crocs? Once we started downriver, there would be no roads out for hundreds of kilometers. None of the teachers at the school nor a visiting electrician wanted to go with us. The only thing the students had, apart from their notebooks and pens, was a bush knife.

"Oscar, em kumup nau," whispers the bearded man. Oscar is coming.

Papuans paddle standing up, I note, watching a rangy man with coal-black skin pump a skinny, four-meter pirogue down the river towards us. As he approaches, I see that the paddle has a crocodile head carved into the handle. He pulls in and Nadya suggests I go for a spin. I slide down the riverbank and almost lose balance as I clamber in. The boat is nothing more than a hollowed-out tree trunk. I sit down quickly and brace my knees against the sides. Oscar stabs the bank with his paddle and shoves us out into the current. The pirogue rocks dangerously from side to side, and I cling nervously to the gunwales. How can he paddle while standing and keep his balance? I try to turn around to observe his technique, but turning means lifting my bum and the shift in weight threatens to tip us over. I face forward again and hunch over. With each thrust from Oscar's paddle, I find I need to lean to compensate.

Back on dry land, Oscar hands over his paddle and urges me to have a go. Nadya hops in the front with a short paddle she borrowed from someone. We push off, and my wife puts to use her considerable paddling skills while I, firmly seated in the stern, manhandle the oversized paddle. We manage a circle: into the current, upstream a bit, across to the far bank, into the current again, and back to where we started, the pirogue dancing about, barely under control and taking on water. We are both relieved to get out.

A Sturdier Way Down the Sepik River

I look at the river coursing by and shake my head. No way I could stand and propel this craft a thousand kilometers to the sea, especially in the rainy season when the water level is high. It would capsize on the first day, and our belongings would vanish into the soup. We'd be crocodile food. There must be wider-hulled, medium-sized canoes around for sale. Perhaps at Mockwai, the first village on the Sepik. Maybe we should ride with the mothers and their babies in a motor-canoe and make further enquiries there.

Another man turns up in a dug-out like Oscar's. Would we be interested in buying two canoes? One student could travel with Nadya, another with me. The remaining two could ride in the motor-canoe with the mothers. I shake my head. If one dug-out isn't going to work, how can two? Tom, the student wishing to travel farthest with us, has the answer. We should buy both canoes and tie them together to make a raft. The students disappear into the forest with their bush knife and return with two sticks, each as thick as my forearm. I shake my head again. How on earth are they going to make a raft without any nails or rope or planks? Off they go once more, this time into the tall grasses growing at the waterside. My wife and I return to the log.

I recall reading about the challenges early white settlers faced navigating the Upper Sepik a century ago. One remarkable four-month journey saw two Australian patrol officers and forty-two Papuan policemen and porters traverse New Guinea south to north at its widest point, completing their crossing by raft down the Sepik. Unable at first to find hardy but buoyant duduye logs to lash together, they settled for a heavier wood. Five of their six rafts hit snags and disintegrated. Against his companion's advice, Ivan Champion persisted with the slightly more buoyant sixth and noted down his experience in his journal afterwards:

There was another and greater crash; one corner had hit a submerged snag and this time the craft did not swing clear. In a moment we had turned sideways on. I saw one side of the raft rise up; instinctively I flung myself across in a puny effort to bring it down but found myself under the water hanging on with both hands...

More recently, American adventurer Kira Salak paddled a leaky "pontoon boat" from Ambunti to Angoram, two villages on a less boisterous stretch lower down the river. Using a pair of dug-outs as outriggers, the Australian she was travelling with built a bamboo platform and erected a mast. When they were busy bailing water or had grown tired of paddling, they hoisted his rain poncho up the mast and sailed.

Boat Building Innovation on a PNG Riverbank

Our students return, dragging behind them a dozen two-meter-long canes. Fice, holding the bush knife by the blade rather than by the handle, peels each stalk and teases out the tough fibers within. Alex winds one around his hand, Kingston another. Tom fetches one of the sticks. While he and Fice hold the canoes steady, Alex and Kingston lay it across the two bows. Kingston ties the end of the twine to one end of the stick and loops the loose end under one hull and passes it up between the canoes to Alex. Alex takes it, wraps it twice around the stick, and pulls it taut. Under the second hull it goes and back to Kingston. Kingston tugs hard and ties a knot. They get another cane fiber and repeat the process in reverse. Nadya and I watch fascinated. I expect the thin cane fiber to snap, but it doesn't, despite getting repeated dunkings in the river. Next, the stern. It is Tom and Fice's turn. Alex goes off to peel more cane.

When they are done, they call us over. We climb aboard and test the new accessories. Solid. We can even sit on these sticks to paddle, or, now that we have a twin-hulled vessel, stand to do so. And our improvised raft is sturdy enough to give all four students a ride home. We pay 200 kina (CAN$80) for each pirogue and 20 kina for a paddle. I have no idea what the going rate is for a scooped-out tree trunk, but I don't care. The villagers only have one paddle to sell us, so Tom lops off a branch to serve as a second. We load up and set off in the last of the light. White cockatoos and green parrots bullet by overhead, squawking riotously. I scan the tarry riverbanks for crocodiles. These and piranhas are, apparently, plentiful in the Sepik and its tributaries.

"Tenkyu tru!" we say, thanking the villagers as the current seizes us.

A couple wave, but most just stare. I wonder if what Nadya and I are doing is rash. We know nothing about dug-out canoes and only as much about the Sepik as our guidebook tells us (no info there on its upper reaches where we will join it). We have no idea whether foreigners are permitted to do this kind of thing, and our command of the local language extends little further than the words, Apinun. Yu stap gut? (Afternoon. How are you?) and Tenkyu tru (Thank you kindly).

I look at Tom with his hacked branch, poling like a gondolier; at Fice with the crocodile paddle, keeping our raft pointed downstream; at Alex crouching up front, looking out for submerged branches; at Kingston at the stern, bailing with a bark scoop. I try to relax. It may seem to us that we are breaking new ground and being uncommonly intrepid, but that is the waitman's illusion. For the Papuans, this is likely just another unremarkable day en route to the Sepik highway.

During our six-week voyage on the Sepik, we would learn that crocodiles retreat to the swamps in rainy season; that piranhas do not regard human beings as dinner; that traveling with villagers is the trick to staying safe from piracy. We learn that Papuans grow up fast, are knowing of the forest and its resources, and are adept at handling dug-out canoes.

Tony Robinson-Smith is the author of Back in 6 Years: A Journey around the Planet without leaving the Surface and The Dragon Run: Two Canadians, Ten Bhutanese, One Stray Dog, which tells of his 578 km run across the Bhutanese Himalaya to raise money to send village kids to school. He and his wife spent three months traveling in the Papua New Guinean interior, paddling dug-out canoes down the Sepik, scrambling up Mt. Wilhelm, and tracking down elusive Birds of Paradise. Check out his blog for more.

Related Features:

A Warriors' Welcome in Maikmol, PNG - Tony Robinson-Smith

Healed by Adventure Travel on the Way to Raja Ampat - Julia Hubbel

The Shape-shifter and the Architect - Tony Robinson-Smith

Rent a Real Man in Borneo - Bruce Northam





See other Asia travel stories from the archives
Washington, Oct 1 : US President Donald Trump has signed a stopgap funding bill, known as the continuing resolution legislation, to keep the federal government open until December 11, averting the possibility of a shutdown.

He signed the bill on Wednesday midnight after returning from a rally in Minnesota.

Earlier in the day, the Republican-majority Senate passed the bill by an 84-10 vote.

It was was unveiled by Democratic lawmakers from the US House of Representatives on October 21.

According to a report in The Hill news website, the bill will allow the government to keep functioning in the new fiscal year, which began at midnight, by keeping funds flowing until December 11.

An NBC News report said that it also includes a bailout for farmers in exchange for boosts in funding for nutrition benefits for poor families requested by Democrats.

Meanwhile, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin met earlier on Wednesday to discuss the next round of coronavirus aid.

Following the meeting, she said that the House plans to vote on Thursday on an updated aid package.

"We will be proceeding with our vote on the updated Heroes Act in order to formalise our proffer to Republicans in the negotiations to address the health and economic catastrophe in our country," NBC News quoted the veteran Democrat as saying.

Also on September 28, House Democrats unveiled a scaled down $2.2-trillion coronavirus relief package in an effort towards clinching a bipartisan deal before the November 3 presidential election.

In July, Senate Republicans released their $1 trillion proposal, but lawmakers failed to bridge their differences before the August recess.

Earlier this month, the Senate again failed to advance a Republican Covid-19 relief bill, which contained roughly $650 billion in total spending, with new funding of around $300 billion and repurposed previously approved spending of $350 billion.

It also included extra weekly unemployment benefits at a reduced level of $300, but Democrats want to maintain the $600 benefits.

In August, Trump signed several orders to extend certain Covid-19 economic relief, but analysts believe that those measures are unlikely to provide a meaningful boost to the overall economy.

-- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed
Renee C. Fox, a leading scholar of medical sociology, a field she was instrumental in creating in an era when women had a difficult time being heard in academia, died on Sept. 23 at a hospice center in Philadelphia. She was 92.

The cause was leukemia, according to an email sent to colleagues at the University of Pennsylvania, where she was an emerita professor of sociology.

Professor Fox was among the first to use the principles and methods of sociology to examine medical care and training, and to shed light on the social contexts of health and illness. Her work was informed by her experience with polio as a teenager, and her extensive travels and research in Africa, Asia and Europe.

Dr. Robert Klitzman, director of the master of bioethics program at Columbia University, said that when Professor Fox started her career in the 1950s, medical care was still seen through a strictly scientific lens, and that ethical, social and cultural issues were ignored.
Many Indigenous leaders across the province and country used Sept. 30 to bring conversation, education and awareness to issues facing Indigenous people, as well as honour children who were forced to attend Canadas residential school.

Wednesday was Orange Shirt Day, a day to remember the thousands of children, some as young as five, who were taken from their parents to attend a residential school, something Elder Shirley Williams says was a horrific time for her.

Speaking to a panel hosted by Ontario Tech Indigenous Education and Cultural Services, Williams recounted her time at Spanish Residential School.

I left at eight years old. They took my suitcase, and it still upsets me to think of that, says Williams.

Between 1890 and 1996, 150,000 children were forced by the Canadian Government to attend the institutions, to which Williams says is the correct word to describe the schools.

Yes, it was an institution. They kept us like prisoners, wouldnt let us talk our language nor see our parents, adds Williams.

In order to keep her language alive, Williams said she would speak it with only those she trusted and would talk to herself a lot or under the blankets at night time.

Upwards of 80,000 children survived while more than 6,000 perished, according to Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) chair Murray Sinclair. The TRC has 94 calls to action and only a handful have been honoured by the Canadian Government and other entities, says Sinclair.

One survivor who wished to remain anonymous said attending the Mohawk Institute in Brantford Ontario, which accepted the first students in 1831, was nothing short of being in jail. It closed in June 1970. Two years later it was turned into a historical site.

He says when the four-door sedan approached the reserve, all the kids were fascinated at the sight of the shiny car and it wasnt until he was put in the back seat and taken away from his parents did he feel scared.

I didnt know my parents when the same style of car brought me back a decade later. I was 16 and I didnt know them. I didnt recognize them, he said.








This coronavirus thing wasnt going to stop me from my plan, she said.

Eager to begin her career, Ms. Smith took a job teaching first grade in Maryland. But getting settled was an obstacle, so the New York Foundling, an agency of Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New York, one of 10 organizations supported by The New York Times Neediest Cases Fund, used $400 to help her with moving expenses.

The school year began remotely, and Ms. Smith looks forward to the return of in-person learning. Im excited to get back to the school and really show what I can do, she said.

Although she said she would prefer to be working in New York, she is enjoying her new apartment, where she has access to amenities. I was just doing poolside yoga, she said. And her dog, Snickers, likes the open space and grass.

Ms. Smith was one of about four million receiving degrees from American colleges and universities in the last academic year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, many of whom faced tough job prospects.

Among the students enrolled in those schools this fall and preparing for the job market is Chativa Anderson.
Il governo italiano accoglie il segretario di Stato Mike Pompeo e riafferma che, qualsiasi sia l'esito delle presidenziali negli Usa, la storica amicizia tra i due Paesi restera immutata.

A Palazzo Chigi si e tenuto un bilaterale con il premier Giuseppe Conte seguito da una semplice nota ufficiale, senza dichiarazioni alla stampa congiunta come accadde nel precedente vertice nella Capitale.

Il tema piu spinoso resta il 5G, la potente evoluzione della tecnologia mobile e cellulare, e il rapporto con la Cina. Punto sul quale il messaggio di Conte e chiaro: le norme italiane garantiscono standard di sicurezza elevati su infrastrutture e reti di comunicazione strategiche. Non solo, la protezione sara ulteriormente rafforzata.

Rassicurazioni che non e detto bastino all'alleato americano, agli occhi del quale l'Italia rischia di diventare oggetto della strategia di "espansione" cinese. Una Cina che, con Huawei, annuncia l'avvio dei lavori di un centro sulla cybersecurity proprio mentre Pompeo e a Roma.

Ma non c'e solo il 5G tra i temi piu caldi degli incontri politici di Pompeo. C'e il fronte libico e quello turco, che nelle prossime settimane, vedra l'Italia comunque coinvolta.

"L'alleanza con gli Stati Uniti e in questo fondamentale per il dossier libico e i rapporti con la Turchia", sottolinea una fonte qualificata di governo. Facendo indirettamente riferimento al ruolo di "moral suasion" che gli Usa possono avere su due fronti: quello di Tripoli, dove si avvicina il momento della successione di Fayez al Serraj, successione sulla quale si allungano le mani della Turchia. E quello della crisi tra Grecia-Cipro e Turchia del Mediterraneo Orientale.

Crisi che, oggi a Bruxelles, sara oggetto del Consiglio straordinario Ue, all'interno del quale la Francia e capofila della linea dura nei confronti di Ankara.

 Riproduzione riservata

(Unioneonline/D)
There is even a designated portion of the [pre-owned vehicle] selection priced under $10,000.

Carl Black Orlando, a dealership working hard to provide automotive service to the entire central Florida region, is currently looking to draw attention to its extensive pre-owned selections. The dealer is widely known for its new inventory of the latest Chevy, Buick and GMC models; however, it also features a massive pre-owned collection encompassing many different makes and models.

Those looking for an automotive purchase that will be kinder to their wallet are encouraged to peruse the pre-owned inventory at Carl Black Orlando. Due to its primary emphasis on new GM vehicles, the dealership does have sizable collections of used Chevy, Buick and GMC models for those interested. There is even a designated portion of the selection priced under $10,000.

Interested individuals are encouraged to take advantage of the dealerships many remote car shopping and purchasing options. In fact, the entire car buying process can be completed online with relative ease. Features include the ability to value ones trade, get pre-approved for financing and even take remote test drives (wherein the vehicle is delivered to the customers home).

Special offers at the dealership are also not limited to new vehicles. Carl Black Orlando offers a continually changing array of specials on their pre-owned inventory. Prospective customers are encouraged to check them out and see if any spark joy deep inside.

Carl Black Orlando has been serving the entire central Florida region with verve for years. The dealership is acclaimed for their straightforward, honest and friendly style; those visit Carl Black (whether virtually or in-person) are immediately welcomed as part of the family.

Customers interested in the pre-owned selection at Carl Black Orlando are encouraged to head to the dealership website at http://www.carlblackoforlando.com. Alternatively, individuals may make a phone call by dialing 888-502-0763. Finally, those who wear a mask and practice proper social distancing procedures may visit the dealership location itself at 11500 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando.
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Russia's military might is at its greatest since the Cold War with its nuclear weaponry and air forces gaining particular strength, a report by a British think-tank says.

A decade-long revamp has given the Kremlin a well-equipped military in a 'high state of readiness' with upgraded aircraft and a 'high-technology' army based on professional recruits rather than conscription.

Moscow has the world's largest nuclear warhead stockpile and has upgraded its equipment in the last 10 years - and is now pursuing hypersonic missiles and nuclear 'torpedoes' to modernise its doomsday devices.

The overhaul has made Russia's military 'more capable today than at any time since the end of the Soviet Union', the International Institute for Strategic Studies says, emboldening Vladimir Putin to spread his influence in Ukraine, Syria and elsewhere.

With relations strained between Russia and the West, the institute's Strategic Dossier warns that the revamped army is a 'capable military tool that Moscow has demonstrated a willingness to use or to threaten the use of'.

Russia's military spending is dwarfed by America's but the Kremlin possesses the world's largest nuclear warhead stockpile and a new report says Moscow's military might is at its highest point since the break-up of the Soviet Union in 1991

The report traces the overhaul back to the 'near-debacle' of Russia's five-day war with Georgia in 2008, when Moscow 'struggled to defeat' the small ex-Soviet republic.

Russia's conventional forces had long been under-funded after the collapse of the USSR and the resulting economic crisis, with only missiles given sufficient attention.

Russia fought bloody wars in Chechnya in the 1990s, and the Georgia campaign in 2008 'exposed shortcomings in equipment and training', the report says.

In response, a new State Armament Programme approved in 2010 led to a massive increase in spending and upgrades to equipment including combat aircraft and land-attack cruise missiles for the Russian navy.

'The upshot of the near debacle in Georgia in 2008 was a reform and modernisation programme that over the course of the following decade has seen a revamped military intervene successfully in Crimea, wage a covert campaign in eastern Ukraine and rescue the government of President Bashar al-Assad in Syrias civil war,' it says.

'Though significantly smaller than their Soviet predecessors, these forces are better equipped, with professional personnel increasingly prevalent.

'Elements are held at high readiness, and Moscow has left behind the era of mass mobilisation, where units would be rapidly brought to strength with reservists.

'Today, Russia fields capable conventional armed forces, which Moscow has been willing to use operationally, as well as one of the worlds two largest strategic arsenals.'

The modernisation efforts have 'ultimately provided Moscow with a credible tool for pursuing its national policy goals', the report adds.

New introductions include the Su-57 stealth fighter which was conceived as a rival to America's F-22 Raptor and made its first appearance at a Red Square parade in 2018.

Russia has tested the fighter jet in Syria and plans to have three Su-57 regiments in place by 2028, joining a fleet of more than 1,500 combat aircraft.

However, there was a setback last December when one of the jets crashed in the far east of Russia in an accident blamed on a steering system fault.

Meanwhile, the Soviet-era fleet of Su-27 fighters has been given a modern variant, the Su-35, with gives the air force its 'most capable fighter/ground-attack aircraft'.

Russia has also sold Su-35s to China in a deal worth more than $2billion and has held talks about a further sale to Turkey.

Moscow's total fleet of 4,163 aircraft across its army, navy and air force is the second-largest in the world and the same goes for its supply of transport aircraft and combat helicopters.

The London-based institute says the Russian air force has seen its capability improve 'markedly' while pilots are better equipped than before.

While the air force is not as large as the Soviet fleet, it has 'benefited considerably from recent investments', the authors say.

Russia's Su-57 fighter jets, pictured at a military show in 2018, are joining a fleet of more than 1,500 combat jets in an air force which has been heavily upgraded

The Borei-class nuclear-powered submarine K-535 Yuri Dolgoruky launches an RSM-56 Bulava ballistic missile in the Barents Sea in August last year

Russia's nuclear weapons have also had an upgrade, bolstering the world's largest warhead stockpile with new mobile land-based launch systems to replace silos.

The Institute's report says nuclear forces 'continue to be viewed by Moscow as the ultimate security guarantor'.

Along with the air force, nuclear weapons have 'benefitted most from a near-decade long increase in investment,' it says.

Russias Strategic Rocket Forces have an estimated 302 intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) at their disposal, which can carry around 1,136 warheads.

Putin also has nuclear-powered ballistic-missile submarines and older nuclear bomber aircraft at his disposal, although these are seen as the weakest of the three.

Moscow has an estimated 6,375 nuclear warheads compared to America's 5,800 and Britain's 215, according to the Arms Control Association.

The Soviet Union had around 40,000 warheads at its peak but fears of a new arms race have grown after the US backed out of a Cold War-era treaty last year.

The Trump administration quit the pact after accusing Russia of violating the agreement signed by Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev in 1987.

Russia responded by ordering a ground-launched version of the Kalibr cruise missile to be built, adapting a weapon previously launched from warships and submarines.

Moscow also wants its rocket scientists to develop a new hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile.

Such weapons had previously been banned by the so-called INF treaty which prohibited short-and intermediate-range missiles launched from the ground.

Putin also wants to give the Russian navy an underwater drone or 'torpedo' armed with nuclear strike weapons and carried by submarines.

The president has often spoken of a new generation of Russian nuclear weapons that he says are unequalled and can hit almost anywhere in the world, although Western experts have questioned his boasts.

Upgrades in Russia's land and naval forces have been 'patchier', the report says, but they have still seen 'considerable improvements in capability'.

Russia has only one aircraft carrier, the Admiral Kuznetsov, and suffered embarrassment when it caught fire last year, killing one sailor.

The Russian fleet of 16 destroyers is also dwarfed by America's fleet of 91, while defence chiefs are still relying on 'ageing' Soviet-era vessels.

Russian soldiers and their military police vehicle carry out a patrol in Syria last year as Moscow extends its influence in the Middle East

Russia has only one aircraft carrier, the Admiral Kuznetzov (pictured), and analysts say improvements in the navy have been more 'patchy'

However, naval firepower has been 'extended by the widespread introduction of land-attack cruise missiles' such as the Club-K.

The missile system can be hidden inside a shipping container, theoretically giving any merchant vessel the capability to wipe out an aircraft carrier.

Russia's ground forces, which number 400,000 troops supplied with nearly 40,000 tanks and armoured vehicles, are described as 'smaller and more capable' than in the 1990s.

'Elements of these forces are held at a high state of readiness and have had recent combat experience,' the report says.

'The re-equipment programme has been complemented by reforms to create a core of professional military, much of it held at a high state of readiness, rather than depend on conscription.'

Russian men are currently required to complete 12 months of military service, although Putin has spoken of winding down conscription.

Putin boasted to Russian lawmakers in 2018 that the Kremlin now has a 'modern high-technology army'.

Analysts noted 'particular progress in improving artillery and missile capabilities' with new equipment including the Iskander-M missile system.

Washington has previously accused Russia of 'destabilising' Europe by placing the nuclear-capable missiles in its Kaliningrad exclave that borders Poland and Lithuania.

The armed forces as a whole have also had their computer systems upgraded to replace what was 'mainly a paper-based process' for issuing commands.

The supply of money is likely to be smaller in coming years, not least because of the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

A document published by Russia's finance ministry in July proposed a five per cent cut in military spending between 2021 and 2023.

Still, 'when combined with Moscows more assertive foreign policy, Russias armed forces in 2020 constitute a capability that should not be ignored,' the report says.

Russia has become a major power-broker in the Middle East after Donald Trump pulled US forces out of Syria, leaving Moscow and Ankara to pick up the pieces.

Putin's support has helped Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad to win back nearly all the territory lost to rebels who tried to overthrow him during the civil war.

Analysts traced the revamp of Russia's military back to a near-disaster in a war with Georgia in 2008 (Russian troops are pictured securing a settlement during that conflict)

A pro-Russian separatist stands at the crash site of MH17 in Ukraine, a disaster which investigators blamed on a missile transported from a Russian military base

The official Russian deployment is thought to be about 5,000 troops, but mercenary group Wagner is also known to have fought in Syria.

The Kremlin insists that Wagner does not take orders from the Russian state, but evidence has emerged of links between mercenary leaders and Moscow's top brass.

Syrian opposition groups claim that Wagner has been recruiting people under the supervision of the Russian army, which supports Assad.

In contrast to unpopular wars in Afghanistan and Chechnya, the Syrian conflict has seen a low Russian death toll because of the use of private contractors.

Washington has also accused Russia of deploying Wagner troops in Libya who have allegedly deployed land mines in and around Tripoli.

In Ukraine, Putin similarly denies an official Russian presence but Moscow is widely accused of helping separatists in the east of the country.

The US says that Russia 'arms, trains, finances, leads, and fights alongside' the pro-Kremlin forces.

Investigators say the missile that shot down passenger flight MH17 six years ago had been transported from a Russian military base in Kursk.

Russia annexed Crimea in 2014 and rubber-stamped its takeover with a referendum which was widely seen as illegitimate.

Meanwhile, relations between Russia and the West have been badly damaged by the poisonings of Sergei Skripal in 2018 and Alexei Navalny in 2020.

Both men were found to be poisoned with Novichok, a Soviet-era nerve agent, leading to widespread suspicion of Russian involvement.

Allegations of Russian meddling in Western elections has also damaged relations. Putin denies this.
The Bombay high court has said the state has the power to cancel the registrations of private hospitals and nursing homes found guilty of overcharging Covid-19 patients, but shutting them would not be a viable option. It has said compensation to such patients could be a remedy. The court also suggested the state could form a redressal mechanism in the form of a commission on the lines of a similar set up in West Bengal that has been effective in addressing grievances of such overcharging. It observed that mere entrustment of duty to administrative officers may not be enough and the Maharashtra government can consider similar solutions. The court said this while disposing of a petition seeking directions for capping rates of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits in private hospitals and nursing homes.

Also Read: Respond to PIL on lack of POCSO implementation: Bombay HC to Maharashtra

The court was told the state government has issued notifications warning hospitals against overcharging. But in the absence of a redressal mechanism, the assurances and notifications have been ineffective.

Abhijit Mangade, the petitioner, submitted bills of a private hospital which charged Rs 1.37 lakhs for PPE kits from a patient under treatment for 20 days. Mangade told a division bench of chief justice Dipankar Datta and justice Girish Kulkarni that the patient was given a regulated bed. He added though there was a cap on the rate of PPE kits, the hospital charged the man for 11 PPE kits per day, thus making the entire purpose of the rate chart useless.

A notification issued by the government said private hospitals could charge only Rs 600 for a PPE kit.

Also Read: Fatal injury not a must to invoke attempt to murder charge: Bombay high court

Managade told the court that a hospital run by a charitable trust had also charged a Covid-19 patient Rs 46,000 for one-day hospitalisation. Mangade added flying squads constituted to ensure that private hospitals and nursing homes did not exploit patients had also been ineffective as overcharging continued.

Mangade submitted the court should direct the state to constitute a grievance redressal mechanism, which is effective and complies with the provisions stipulated in the government notifications.

Advocate general Ashutosh Kumbhakoni submitted the notifications had empowered municipal and district officials to address the grievances of patients.
BANGOR, Maine - The State Department is honouring a former diplomat for bravery when fighting broke out in the capital of the Republic of Congo during a civil war.

William Rowland, who retired in July after 25 years as a diplomat in the U.S. Foreign Service, is being recognized with a Hero of U.S. Diplomacy award, the Bangor Daily News reported.

William Rowland will be recognized for displaying unwavering courage during the evacuation of U.S. Embassy Brazzaville in June 1997, the State Department said in a statement.

Rowland, of Swans Island, Maine, was serving his first posting with the foreign service in Brazzaville, the capital of the Republic of Congo, when government forces attempted to disarm a militia loyal to an opposition candidate in advance of the presidential elections in 1997.

Fighting broke out near the U.S. Embassy in Brazzaville, which is located across the river from Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Rowland helped evacuate Americans living in Brazzaville, helped rescue colleagues from the fighting, and negotiated with the Russian-Ukrainian crew of an airplane to transport him and a group of other embassy workers on a short flight across the river to safety.

Rowland told the newspaper he left Brazzaville with a suitcase and his camera.

Thats all I got out with  and my life, Rowland said.

Rowland went on to serve diplomatic postings in Colombia, Brazil, Canada, Venezuela, India, Honduras, Nigeria and Haiti. The State Department has given the award to a dozen current and former members of the foreign service.
Kerala's COVID-19 tally



crossed the grim milestone of two lakh on Thursday as the state reported 8,135 fresh cases while the toll climbed to 771 with 29 deaths.

Kerala, which has been witnessing a rapid spike in new cases in recent weeks, had crossed the one lakh mark on September 11, seven months after India's first case was reported from the state, when a Wuhan returned medical student tested positive.

The total cases touched 1.50 lakh on September 24 with the pace of the spread further increasing, prompting the state government to warn of strict action against those not following preventive measures such as social distancing and wearing of masks.

Health workers continued to be affected in large numbers with 105 more among those who tested positive on Thursday, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said.

This is the second consecutive day that the state has reported over 8,000 cases. On Wednesday, 8,830 cases, including 123 health workers, were detected in the biggest single day spike so far.

In the last 24 hours, a total of 59,157 samples were tested, taking the cumulative specimens screened so far to 29,85,534, Vijayan told reporters here.

Of the fresh cases, as many as 7,013 had contracted the disease through contact and the source of infection of 730 people was not known, he said.

As many as67 had come from abroad and 218from other states.

While the Covid count touched 2,03,241, a total of 1,31,052 people have recovered, including 2,828 on Thursday.

At least 72,339 people were presently undergoing treatment for the infection, which has been spreading fast in the state in the past few weeks.

Kozhikode reported the highest number of cases at 1,072, followed by Malappuram (968) and Ernakulam (934).

Thiruvananthapuram accounted for856, most of them below 40 years of age, Vijayan said.

As many as 771 have succumbed to the virus, he said, adding of the fatalities reported on Thursday, the deceased were aged between 92 and 45 years.

A total of 2,43,107 people were under observation, including 30,258 in varioushospitals, the chief minister said.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
AMC Networks Acorn TV, North Americas leading streaming service for world-class TV from Britain and beyond, is arriving in Portugal on October 1st and will be available on leading telecommunications companies MEO and NOS, with a catalogue consisting of British drama, mystery and comedy series from the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland and Canada. AMC Networks International Southern Europe (AMCNISE) will support Acorn TV in Portugal, providing affiliate sales, marketing, PR and versioning services, among others, due to the companys leadership and market expertise in the region.

With a monthly cost of 2.99 euros and Portuguese subtitles, Acorn TV  the biggest streaming service specialized in British series in the United States, with well over one million subscribers, expects to expand its catalogue every month, following its plan for ongoing growth in Portugal.

According to Matthew Graham, Acorn TVs general manager, Acorn TV has been remarkably successful and were very excited about bringing some of the most iconic and critically acclaimed television shows to Portugal. Acorn TV has become a household name in the US thanks to the excellence of its programming content, including award-winning series from major networks, such as BBC, ITV, Channel 4, ABC Australia and RTE as well as series Acorn TV commissions and co-produces.

At launch, Acorn TV Portugal will include smash hit British drama Doc Martin; Irish legal drama Striking Out; detective drama Jack Taylor, starring Iain Glen (Game of Thrones, Downton Abbey) and based on Ken Bruens best-sellers; Agatha Christies Partners in Crime, a charming adaptation of Agatha Christie; The Level, which has a high-end cast of characters with names like Robert James-Collier from Downton Abbey, and Collision, with Douglas Henshall from Shetland as the leading actor, are some of the most lauded drama series that Acorn TV is bringing to Portugal.

For the fans of British comedy, the highlights include Detectorists, a BAFTA-winning series written and directed by leading actor Mackenzie Crook (The Office), alongside the likes of Toby Jones (The Hunger Games), Rachael Stirling (The Bletchley Circle) and Diana Rigg (Game of Thrones). Finding Joy, starring the Irish comedian Amy Huberman (Striking Out, The Clinic) and co-starring acclaimed comedian Aisling Bea, is yet another series included in the catalogue. Coming in November is Kingdom, starring Stephen Fry, a legend of British comedy.

In the mystery segment, subscribers will be able to watch George Gently, BBCs renowned police drama, featuring award-winning actor Martin Shaw (Judge John Deed, The Professionals); Foyles War, an awarded British series taking place during World War II, classified by The New York Times as a gift from the gods, and Indian Summers, a saga starring Julie Walters (Harry Potter) that The Hollywood Reporter found compellingdelightfully sudsy and sun-dappled about the final dramatic years of the British Empire in India.

Considered by The Hollywood Reporter as  a glorious streaming service, an essential must-have and presenting the most robust and reliable selection of European, British, Canadian and Australian shows, according to The New York Times, Acorn TV has become an essential streaming channel across the U.S., Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, Latin America, among many other countries. Launched in the U.S. in 2011, Acorn TV has led the way for specialized streamers with commissioning, co-producing and licensing a wide range of first-rate international productions.

According to the Marktest Telecommunications Barometer, about 800 thousand Portuguese citizens subscribed streaming services between February and April this year, raising the number of subscribers of this kind of platform in Portugal to the two-million mark, thus confirming that the Portuguese market is accompanying the growth recorded in other markets.

About AMC Networks

Known for its groundbreaking and celebrated original content, AMC Networks (NASDAQ:AMCX) is the company behind the award-winning brands AMC, BBC AMERICA, IFC, SundanceTV, WE tv, and IFC Films. Its diverse line-up of popular and critically-acclaimed series and independent films include Killing Eve, Better Call Saul and The Walking Dead, which has been the #1 show on basic cable television for ten consecutive years, as well as Documentary Now!, Brockmire, Love After Lockup, and the films Boyhood, Death of Stalin, and many more. Its original series Mad Men and Breaking Bad are widely recognized as being among the most influential and acclaimed shows in the history of TV. The Company also operates AMC Studios, its production business; AMC Networks International, its international programming business; the subscription streaming services Acorn TV, Shudder, Sundance Now; and UMC (Urban Movie Channel); RLJE Films; and Levity Entertainment Group, the Companys production services and comedy venues business. For more information, visit http://www.amcnetworks.com.
A firefighting helicopter makes a water drop during the Bobcat fire in the Angeles National Forest on Sept. 23. (Mario Tama / Getty Images)

Active fires and extreme fire danger will keep seven national forests, including all in Southern California, closed for at least another week, according to a National Forest Service order Wednesday. The Angeles, Cleveland, Los Padres, Inyo, San Bernardino, Sequoia and Sierra national forests will remain shut at least through Oct. 8.

Thirteen of the 18 national forests in the state have large fires. The agency closed all forests in the state on Sept. 9; local forests haven't reopened since. It's still "a day-to-day decision" on when to reopen, said U.S. Forest Service spokesman Jonathan Groveman.

Farther north, Eldorado, Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, Lassen, Mendocino, Modoc, Plumas, Shasta-Trinity, Stanislaus and Tahoe are open to varying degrees.

It's been an unprecedented year when it comes to wildfires. The agency reports that more than 3 million acres of land have burned statewide so far this season. In a typical fire season, that number is about 300,000 acres.

As of Thursday morning, the Bobcat fire in the Angeles National Forest had claimed 114,901 acres and was 75% contained. Firefighters are working in the northwestern portion of the fire, between Highway 2 and Little Rock Reservoir, and patrolling other areas, such as Mount Wilson and areas near Mount Waterman, according to InciWeb. The El Dorado fire in the San Bernardino National Forest had burned 22,744 acres and was 93% contained.

Authorities urged would-be visitors to check individual forest web pages (for specific restrictions), the Cal Fire website (for updates on the blazes in progress) and AirNow or a comparable source (for air-quality readings).

Fires also shut national parks too. Yosemite National Park closed Sept. 17-24 because of smoky air from the nearby Creek fire in Sierra National Forest. It reopened Friday.

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks reopened Thursday after the SQF Complex fire kept the parks temporarily closed. Air quality, however, remains poor because of smoke and particulates from the fire. Also, some wilderness areas, including the Mineral King and South Fork areas, remain closed because of wildfire concerns.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Congress president on Wednesday attacked the over the death of Hathras gangrape victim, saying she "did not die but was murdered by ruthless government" and "her body was consigned to flames forcibly".

"Crores of people in this country are sad and angry over the brutal incident of Hathras, which is a blot on our society. I want to ask, being a girl is a crime? Being a poor girl is a crime? What was UP government doing that they could not hear the voice of the family seeking justice? They tried to suppress the matter. Right medical facilities were not provided to the victim on time," said in a video statement.

She described 19-year-old victim, who died in Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital on Tuesday, as Nirbhaya of Hathras.

"A girl has left us. I want to say that Nirbhaya of Hathras did not die, she was murdered by a ruthless Uttar Pradesh government, its administration and its neglect."When she (victim) was alive, she was not given justice, she was not protected," she said.

alleged that the victim's final rites were performed forcefully and her body was not taken to her residence.

"She (the victim) was not handed to her family. A weeping mother could not give a final farewell to her daughter. It is a big sin. She was cremated forcefully," Gandhi said.

"There is dignity also after death. Our Hindu religion talks about it. But she was consigned to flames using the police force? What kind of justice is this? What is this government? You think you can do anything and this country will remain silent. No, this country will speak against your injustice," she said.

Gandhi further said that the Congress party stands with the family of the victim.

"On behalf of Congress, I stand with the victim family's demand for justice. India belongs to all its citizens and all have a right to live with dignity. The Constitution has given us this right. We will not let BJP destroy the constitution and the country," she said.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had also slammed the Uttar Pradesh government over the incident.

"All this is a shameful move of the UP government to suppress the Dalits and show them their 'place' in the society.Our fight is against this hateful thinking," he said.

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi said Yogi Adityanath has no moral right to continue as Chief Minister.

Uttar Pradesh government on Wednesday announced that kin of Hathras gangrape victim will be given Rs 25 lakh as ex-gratia and a house, and a government job will be given to a member of the family.

The government has formed a three-member SIT to probe the case and said the matter will be heard in the fast track court.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath spoke to the family of the victim through video conferencing.

The victim died in Safdarjung Hospital on Tuesday. She was brought to the Hospital on Monday from Aligarh Muslim University Medical College.

Last rites of Hathras gang-rape victim was performed at her native place in the wee hours of Wednesday. All the four accused involved in the incident have been arrested.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Jordan Weissmann: Jim, we just watched a debate where two septugenarian candidates for the American presidency sniped at each other relentlessly for an hour and 30 minutes. The Grumpy Old Men GIFs have been flying all night on Twitter. Trump yet again declined an opportunity to condemn generic white supremacists and maybe gave a shout out to the Proud Boys. Jake Tapper just described the whole thing as a hot mess inside a dumpster fire inside a train wreck.

And yet, Im weirdly feeling hopeful for our country after all that, because for most of the night, Trump seemed like a bellicose asshole, and Biden appeared generally together, on message, and empathetic, which is all he really needs to maintain his lead. Am I being too optimistic?

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Jim Newell: I guess Id take issue with the idea that they sniped relentlessly at each other for an hour and 30 minutes. Trump sniped relentlessly at Biden for that long, Chris Wallace sniped at Trump, and Biden was able to complete about 62 percent of each talking point he started. It made me think about the first Republican presidential debate Trump participated in in 2015, and how wildly funny it seemed at the time that he was being the way he was. Memories!

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There was nothing funny about anything tonight, and it wouldnt surprise me if Biden pulls out of the next two debates.

I didnt think Biden was at his best. He seemed too caught up in remembering his prepared answers, or useless stats that he could just paraphrase. Trump trying to throw him off his train of thought was the right strategy. But Trump was absolutely out of his mind. Well see what polls say but my interpretation is: This fires up his base and worsens his problems among those who were drifting away from him specifically because he is a priceless asshole.

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Does any Memorable Highlight Moment stand out for you, or is it all a blur of arguments about the time clock?

Weissmann: I, in turn, would take issue with the idea that there was nothing funny about tonight. I actually belly-laughed early on when Biden finally cracked and said, Will you shut up, man? And when I got done laughing, I realized that I had just experienced a very cathartic moment of Democratic wish fulfillment. A lot of liberals have been waiting for someone to talk back directly like that to Trump since he became president, which isnt an uncommon feeling among members of an opposition party. (Remember Clint Eastwood and that Obama-empty chair?) And when Biden did it, he actually seemed to snap out a bit from his slow early start, where he was mostly fumbling his way quietly through talking points.

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It didnt help Trump that his attempts to be vicious in return often sounded way off-key, like when he basically called Biden an idiot (theres nothing smart about you) and reminded everyone that the well-liked ex-VP attended a state school. He was trying to point out that Biden couldnt remember its name properly, but it came off as classist, and kind of reinforced the whole Scranton vs. Park Avenue theme Bidens been hitting on lately.

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I also expect that Trumps surreal failure to condemn white supremacists and militias, literally the easiest thing you can do in politics, is going to live on, just because it plays into the criticisms of him that already exist. What did you even make of that?

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Newell: What did he say, stand down, stand by, in a very sarcastic, wink-wink voice? Of course he did that, its what he does. What made it chilling was the way he complemented that later in the debate by talking about the need for his poll watchers to challenge voters in Philadelphia, and elsewhere, and his refusal to urge his supporters to resist street violence when mail votes are going to be counted in the days after the election. Its not just the failure to condemn, its the failure to condemn because strategically hes planning on unrest during the counting of mail votes.

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Weissmann: Right. Trump literally told the Proud Boysan actual group of white racist hooligansto stand down and stand by.

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Newell: On the Trump-couldnt-stop-interrupting front, I just heard Jake Tapper faulting Chris Wallace for losing control of the debate early and not taking the reins until too late. I always love one TV man sticking it to a rival. But I dont really know what else Chris Wallace was supposed to do? I thought he was pretty forceful throughout the debate, in every conceivable way short of turning off a mic, that Trump needed to shut the fuck up. What did you make of Wallaces inability to keep control? Was there anything else he could do?

Weissmann: He did what he could, and what he could do was spend the evening quarreling with the president. I think much of the right-wing mediathough maybe not Fox, since Wallace works thereis going to accuse him of being biased, and perhaps try to preemptively bully the next moderator to go easy on Trump. And at points, he really did let his evident frustration with Trump slip, such as toward the end when he chuckled and agreed with Biden that it was hard to remember what Trump had even just said. To be honest, if I were a dedicated Republican, I would probably be pissed that the moderator spent most of the night coming to Bidens aid. But then again, Trump could have kept quieter and been more effective, especially since Biden tends to trip on his words when he goes on for a full paragraph. For a guy who Republicans claim has lost a step, Biden was much better in their back-and-forth duels.

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Do you think there was anything that happened during this debate that would have actually changed someones mind about a candidate, though?

Newell: It felt like, if you were still a swing voter at this pointall 70 of you out therethis just reinforces the cross-pressures. Say you like or are OK with the administrations policies but also think hes a total asshole who shouldnt be in charge of anything. This reaffirmed all of that.

I thought, if Trump had a message with some juice tonight, it wasand I cant remember the exact words, and it is actually impossible to transcribe this debatelook at all the shit thats been thrown my way on a daily basis, but I just put it aside and built a strong economy and will rebuild one after COVID, too. Then, to name just one example, while Biden is talking about his son Beau dying of cancer, Trump interrupts to talk about cokehead Hunter. Its just so  cruel. Eventually those remaining swing voters will have to make a choice, but I dont see how tonight makes it easier. I dont see why anyone already committed to a candidate would change based on tonight.

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I mean, Im looking at this first CBS instapoll after the debate about who won it and  Biden +7. Almost exactly the national polling margin.

New @CBSNews poll on who won debate:



48% Biden

41% Trump  Bo Erickson CBS (@BoKnowsNews) September 30, 2020

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Weissmann: I mean, Donald Trump fought with the press, praised himself because 2 million Americans havent die of the coronavirus, seemed to once again disagree with his own scientific team, called his opponent an idiot, declined to say a bad word about racists, and suggested he would only lose the election if it was riggedall of which are pretty much par for the course. Biden basically looked at the camera and said, Can you believe this clown? (Im paraphrasing, but only sort of.)

Newell: In that way, maybe Wallace didnt fail, and the debate served its purpose: showing us what kind of people the two people running for president are.

Weissmann: And voters were unmoved. According to CNNs poll, 60 percent of viewers think Biden won, but 57 percent said the debate didnt make them more likely to vote for one or the other. It appears that most voters know what there is to know about these men.
HOUSTON, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- BMC, a global leader celebrating 40 years of delivering IT solutions for the Autonomous Digital Enterprise, today announced results of its 15th Annual Mainframe Survey. The results show overwhelming support for mainstreaming the mainframe, new strategic priorities, and a resurgence of next generation mainframe talent.

The largest survey of its kind, this bellwether study queried over 1000 executives and practitioners on their priorities, challenges, and growth opportunities for the platform. High-level insights include:

90% of respondents see the mainframe as a platform for growth and long-term applications.

68% expect MIPS, the mainframe's measure of computing performance, to grow.

63% of respondents say security and compliance were their top mainframe priorities.

More than half of survey respondents increased mainframe platform data and transaction volume by 25% or more, signaling its ongoing importance in the digital business environment.

"The Mainframe Survey validates that businesses see the mainframe as a critical component of the modern digital enterprise and an emerging hub for innovation," says Stephen Elliot, Program Vice President, Management Software and DevOps, IDC. "They're putting it to work more and more to support digital business demands as they strive to achieve greater agility and success across the enterprise."

Top Mainframe Priorities

With mainframe enterprises competing to bring new, digital experiences to market to delight customers, the survey's themes are resoundingly strong: Adapt, Automate, and Secure.

Adapt

Responses indicated that enterprises' need to adapt spanned several areas:

New processes to keep up with digital demand.

Technology demands such as application development/DevOps across the mainframe; 78% of respondents want to be able to update mainframe applications more frequently than currently possible.

Changing workforce, as the number of next generation mainframe talent increases along with the number of women working on the platform.

Automate

Mainframe modernization continues to play a key role in priorities among respondents with the need to implement AI and machine learning strategies jumping by 8% year over year.

Secure

While the mainframe has a reputation of being a naturally secure platform, respondents are seeing the growing need to fortify its "walls." Security trumped cost optimization as the leading mainframe priority among respondents for the first time in the 15-year history of the survey.

"Early results were shared with leading industry analysts and key customers from our Mainframe Executive Council in order to validate findings with market sentiment," states John McKenny, SVP of Mainframe Innovation and Strategy at BMC. "These conversations further solidified the study's findings that the platform's positive outlook and growth is largely due to the need to create intuitive, customer-centric digital experiences. The mainframe continues to shine as innovative, agile, and secure and is a vital component to digital success."

Workforce Demographic Shifts

The survey revealed the demographic shifts in mainframe operations, as younger, less experienced staff replaces departing senior staff, and a higher proportion of women respondents than last year.

"The IBM Z ecosystem continues to evolve to support a modern, hybrid cloud. But it's more than that, because the practitioners who run IBM Z are shifting as well to represent the modern workforce - with 40% representation from women and over one-third representation from those with less than 5 years experience on the Z platform," says Ross Mauri, General Manager, IBM Z and LinuxONE.

Resources

For full survey results, download the full 2020 Mainframe Survey report at www.bmc.com/mainframesurvey

Learn more detail about mainframe priorities, challenges, and growth strategies by registering for the October 6 th webinar detailing results from BMC's 15 th Annual Mainframe Survey here

webinar detailing results from BMC's 15 Annual Mainframe Survey here Learn more about the BMC AMI portfolio at www.bmc.com/ami

About BMC

From core to cloud to edge, BMC delivers the software and services that enable over 10,000 global customers, including 84% of the Forbes Global 100, to thrive in their ongoing evolution to an Autonomous Digital Enterprise.

BMC, BMC Software, the BMC logo, and other BMC marks are the exclusive properties of BMC Software, Inc. or its affiliates and are registered or may be registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office or in other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Copyright 2020 BMC Software, Inc.

BMCRun and Reinvent

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SOURCE BMC Software, Inc.
Information reaching this portal indicates that heavy downpour has led to two dams overflowing their boundaries in some parts of the West Mamprusi municipality.

The flood has resulted in over 1,500 people being displaced.

About hundreds of houses in the municipality have as well been submerged in the floods.

DGN Online gathered that two dams in the municipality namely Diani and Guabullga overflowed submerging houses and causing severe damages to properties in the communities.

The West Mamprusi Municipal Chief Executive(MCE), Aremeyaw Somo Lucky, who confirmed the incident to DGN Online, said personnel of the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) are currently at the affected communities to rescue, protect live and properties.

He indicated that affected persons were being rescued to Walewale township to accommodate them temporary.

 In Walewale we some newly constructed school that are not in use because schools are not in session that we will move them into temporary.

He said the assembly is trying to redirect the water from the dams and also rebuild them as soon as possible.

Several communities including Sakogu, Nakpanduri, Bunkpurugu,Yunyoo have been cut off due to submerging of the bridge the links the communities to West Mamprusi municipality.

An assessment team made up of NADMO (Regional and District MMDA level), Environmental Health (Regional and MMDA level), WFP, UNICEF, PLAN Ghana, Global Communities indicated in their reports that about 55,235 persons have been affected in the heavy downpour and resultant floods in addition to the spillage of the Bagre dam with 206 communities affected and nine persons confirmed dead in the North East Region.

---Daily Guide
live bse live

nse live Volume Todays L/H More 

Shareholders of Vodafone Idea (VIL) have approved a slew of proposals, including raising its borrowing limit and issuance of securities of up to Rs 15,000 crore, according to a regulatory filing.

The shareholders' nod came at the company's Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on Wednesday, where various proposals  expected to enable the troubled telecom operator to pay statutory dues and stay afloat  were put up for voting.

A special resolution for increasing the borrowing powers of the company was cleared with 99.8 per cent votes, while another relating to issuance of equity securities for up to Rs 15,000 crore received 98.6 per cent votes in favour. "All the resolutions mentioned in the AGM notice as per detailsaccordingly stand passed with requisite majority," VIL said in a BSE filing on Thursday.

According to the AGM notice circulated by the company on September 7, the resolution on borrowing powers pertained to raising borrowing limit to Rs 1 lakh crore. Shareholders of the company, which was earlier listed as Idea Cellular, had approved a borrowing limit of Rs 25,000 crore at its AGM in September 2014.

Other proposals that VIL shareholders approved were alteration of Articles of Association of the company, creation of security on properties and transactions with Indus Towers and Bharti Infratel. Earlier last month, the board of Vodafone Idea had approved fund-raising plans of up to Rs 25,000 crore through a combination of equity and debt instruments, subject to shareholders' approval.

The board's move had come just days after the Supreme Court directed telecom operators to pay 10 percent of their total Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR)-related dues this year, and rest in 10 instalments starting from next fiscal year. The ambitious fund raising plans promise to throw a lifeline to cash-strapped VIL, which has suffered massive losses, has been losing subscribers and Average Revenue Per User (ARPU), and faces outstanding statutory dues of about Rs 50,000 crore.

VIL is the third largest operator in the fiercely-competitive Indian telecom market, where Jio's entry in 2016 with free calls and cheap data pushed some rivals to exit or merge with other operators to stay afloat. Jio Platforms  the unit that houses India's youngest but largest telecom firm Jio and apps  recently raised Rs 1,52,056 crore from 13 investors, including Facebook, Google, General Atlantic, Intel Capital and Qualcomm Ventures.

Vodafone Idea's overall AGR dues stood at over Rs 58,000 crore, of which the company has paid Rs 7,854 crore to the Department of Telecom so far. The statutory dues arose after the Supreme Court, in October last year, upheld the government's position on including revenue from non-core businesses in calculating the annual AGR of telecom companies, a share of which is paid as licence and spectrum fee to the exchequer.
AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of "a-" of Abu Dhabi National Takaful Company P.S.C. (ADNTC) (United Arab Emirates). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is positive.

The ratings reflect ADNTC's balance sheet strength, which AM Best categorises as very strong, as well as its strong operating performance, limited business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.

The positive outlooks reflect AM Best's expectation that ADNTC will enhance its position in its domestic market whilst continuing to outperform takaful and conventional insurance peers as it executes its business plan.

AM Best considers the takaful regulations in the UAE to be sufficiently strong, given the protection it provides to policyholders. Consequently, ADNTC's risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Best's Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), is at the strongest level, on a combined basis, and AM Best expects prospective capitalisation to be sufficient to support the company's business plans. An offsetting factor in AM Best's balance sheet assessment is ADNTC's moderate reliance on reinsurance. However, the credit risk is mitigated by the company's reinsurance panel, which is considered to be of good credit quality. Whilst the company's asset base is concentrated in the UAE, it holds a low-risk investment portfolio that is considered highly liquid.

ADNTC has exhibited strong and consistent operating performance despite highly competitive market conditions, as evidenced by its five-year (2015-2019) average combined ratio of 66.2% and return on equity of 17.7%. Technical performance improved for the third consecutive year in 2019, with the company generating a combined ratio of 61.9% (as calculated by AM Best). The Family Takaful portfolio continues to be the main contributor to technical results. AM Best expects earnings to remain robust prospectively, although top-line growth may be challenged in the near term due to weaker sales in the Family Takaful portfolio as a result of the economic downturn related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The company has a modest, albeit growing, profile in terms of business written in the UAE insurance market. Nevertheless, ADNTC benefits from a solid reputation as one of the most successful takaful operators in the market, which is complemented by its strong relationships with local Islamic banks. Given its track record of strong operating performance, ADNTC has been reducing its dependence on the Qard Hasan (i.e., an interest-free loan from the shareholders' fund to the policyholders' fund), with the life technical account being in a surplus position. 2019 marked the second consecutive year the company distributed surplus to eligible policyholders, after being the first takaful operator in the UAE to do so in 2018. AM Best expects this to enhance its value proposition for customers thereby strengthening its business profile in the region.

This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best's website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best's Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best's Credit Ratings. For information on the proper media use of Best's Credit Ratings and AM Best press releases, please view Guide for Media Proper Use of Best's Credit Ratings and AM Best Rating Action Press Releases.

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specializing in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in New York, London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

Copyright 2020 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

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Contacts:

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The factoring market is expected to grow by USD 1,308.4 billion during 2020-2024. The report also provides the market impact and new opportunities created due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We expect the impact to be significant in the first quarter but gradually lessen in subsequent quarters with a limited impact on the full-year economic growth according to the latest market research report by Technavio.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201001005638/en/

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Factoring Market 2020-2024 (Graphic: Business Wire)

Request challenges and opportunities influenced by COVID-19 pandemic Request a Free Sample Report on COVID-19 Impacts

The acquisition of new customers increases the number of invoices for companies. Also, MSMEs are at a disadvantage while dealing with the capital market, in terms of credit rationing and finance gaps. Besides, the limited availability of funding in these firms is compelling them to opt for external sources of financing such as banks, investments from venture capitals, factoring, and others. Factoring firms provide working capital loans to help organizations mitigate credit risks by creating dynamic incentives, such as providing loans without start-up fees or termination fees. This trend is increasingly becoming popular among MSMEs in both emerging and developed countries. These factors are fostering the growth of the global factoring market.

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=IRTNTR41066

As per Technavio, the growing need for alternative source of financing for MSMEs will have a positive impact on the market and contribute to its growth significantly over the forecast period. This research report also analyzes other significant trends and market drivers that will influence market growth over 2020-2024.

Factoring Market: Advent of Blockchain in Factoring Services

Blockchain is an emerging technology that is increasingly being accepted in mainstream payment modes. It is transforming the way exchanges such as the stock market, patent awarding, and factoring work. Many developed countries are testing the affordability of the technology in the field of trade finance. For example, countries such as the UK, Canada, Russia, and China are experimenting by placing their national currencies on the blockchain. The technology will enable easy availability of information about buyers, and sellers on a single platform, which will help all stakeholders involved in factoring to reduce their risks. This trend is expected to have a positive impact on the growth of the global factoring market during the forecast period.

"Growing awareness about supply chain financing, including factoring and the adoption of structuring and pricing tools will further boost market growth during the forecast period", says a senior analyst at Technavio.

Register for a free trial today and gain instant access to 17,000+ market research reports

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Factoring Market: Segmentation Analysis

This market research report segments the factoring market by Type (Domestic factoring and International factoring) and Geographic Landscape (APAC, Europe, MEA, North America, and South America).

The European region led the factoring market in 2020, followed by APAC, South America, North America, and MEA respectively. During the forecast period, Europe is expected to register the highest incremental growth due to the increased penetration of factoring in countries such as Poland and Croatia.

Technavio's sample reports are free of charge and contain multiple sections of the report, such as the market size and forecast, drivers, challenges, trends, and more. Request a free sample report

Some of the key topics covered in the report include:

Market Drivers

Market Challenges

Market Trends

Vendor Landscape

Vendors covered

Vendor classification

Market positioning of vendors

Competitive scenario

About Technavio

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses 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.

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Reopening the borders to South Australia and the Northern Territory would provide Western Australia with no economic benefit, Premier Mark McGowan has claimed.

With other states and territories beginning to reopen their borders, WA remains isolated in its refusal to subscribe to a targeted COVID-19 'hotspots' regime.

WA's borders have been closed to anyone except designated workers and people exempted on compassionate grounds for almost six months.

The state has not recorded a case of coronavirus in the community for 175 days, but still refuses to open up - even to other safe states such as the NT and SA.

WA has not recorded a case of coronavirus in the community for 175 days (pictured, passengers and crew onboard a Qantas flight)

Reopening the borders to South Australia and the Northern Territory would provide Western Australia with no economic benefit, Premier Mark McGowan (pictured) says

Like WA, SA and the NT have managed to stamp out community transmission and have had low coronavirus case numbers for several months.

But Mr McGowan says there is no point in pursuing a travel bubble - as it would only encourage Western Australians to leave the state and bring few tourists in.

'There is no benefit,' he said on Thursday.

'All we'll do is lose jobs were we to open to those [jurisdictions].

'The other states want us to open the border so that West Australian tourists will flood east, not so that people from the east will come here.

'They're only saying all this for very self-interested reasons because we have higher incomes, we have people that are more used to travelling and therefore we'll have more tourists go from Western Australia to the east.'

The comments are likely to frustrate industry groups that have called on the McGowan government to provide certainty on the easing of border restrictions.

Mr McGowan remains adamant the borders won't come down until the eastern states go 28 days with no community spread.

Mr McGowan remains adamant the borders won't come down until the eastern states go 28 days with no community spread (pictured, Qantas crew check passengers on September 24)

He highlighted reports that passengers from the Ruby Princess cruise ship may have infected up to 11 people on a flight from Sydney to Perth.

'When we get calls from other governments around Australia, particularly NSW, to bring down our border, all I'd say is they have had significant policy failures in the east that caused the spread of the virus into Western Australia in the early days,' Mr McGowan said.

'We're always very careful about our borders to protect our people. If only they'd been more careful, we would't have had some of those cases come to our state.'

Mary-Louise McLaws, an epidemiologist at the University of NSW and an advisor to the World Health Organisation said the measures were 'beyond cautious'.

'I am a very cautious outbreak epidemiologist, and I think that the 28 days is beyond caution,' Professor McLaws told the ABC on Wednesday.

WA's borders have been closed to anyone except designated workers and people exempted on compassionate grounds for almost six months (pictured, People are seen at Sir James Mitchell Park in Perth in April)

'It's admirable, but it's looking for total eradication, or close to [it]. And I don't that think we can get to that.'

She said a more realistic approach would be using a two-week rolling average of five cases or less.

The premier was speaking at the launch of WA's new container deposit scheme, which he said would create more than 600 local jobs.

He praised mining giant BHP's promise to hire an additional 2500 apprentices and trainees across academies in WA and Queensland.

'Obviously that will be of lasting benefit to the state,' he said.

'We do want to see companies employ more West Australians. If there are shortages in industry, they need to get cracking on getting people into those jobs.'
Oil prices took another dive on Thursday, with the price of WTI falling more than 6% by late morning as OPECs production increased in September over August.

Spot prices for WTI had fallen by 6.04% to $37.79 by 11:28 a.m. EDT, while Brent had dropped 5.22% to $40.09.

The catalyst for this mornings price drop is OPEC+s September seaborne exports, which jumped to 22.84 million barrels per day from the 22.11 that the cartel exported by sea in August.

For OPEC specifically, its exports rose from 17.53 million bpd in August to 18.2 million bpd in September.

A Reuters survey shows that OPECs production for September was up 160,000 bpd from the previous month. OPEC is still in compliance. The culprits for this production increase is mostly Iran and Libya, both of whom are exempt from the production quotas.

The market is interpreting this production increase as a viable threat to any oil market rebalancing.

Further pressuring oil prices is the ever-present demand questiona metric that has been constantly pushed down by the pandemic. Bearish demand factors include another round of major airline layoffs affecting tens of thousands of employees, an impromptu lockdown of Madrid due to increasing coronavirus cases, and disappointing vaccine newstwo separate vaccine trials have resulted in unpleasant side effects, including high fever, body aches, bad headaches, and exhaustion, just to name a few.

While the vaccine news isnt a death knell for either vaccine, they may reduce the number of people willing to sign up for the vaccine if either of these are ultimately approved.

It is the vaccine that OPEC has pointed to in a meeting on Thursday as the lynchpin to stabilizing the oil market and swiften the pace of economic recovery.

By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Humphreys currently leads Tripp Lites Data Center Application Team as they use their product expertise to simplify the sales process and help channel partners close deals.

Tripp Lite, a global manufacturer of power protection and connectivity solutions, is pleased to announce that CRN, a brand of The Channel Company, has recognized Corey Humphreys, Sales Application Engineering Supervisor, as one of the IT channels 100 People You Dont Know But Should for 2020. This annual list pays tribute to the below-the-radar best and brightest who power the channel every day.

Based on feedback from leading solution providers and industry executives, the CRN editorial team uses the 100 People You Dont Know But Should list to draw attention to those outstanding channel players who may not be household names, but still work tirelessly to keep their partners thriving and the IT channel growing.

Humphreys currently leads Tripp Lites Data Center Application Team as they use their product expertise to simplify the sales process and help channel partners close deals. With over 11 years of experience in the IT industry, Humphreys combines his technical knowledge and sales skills to help his team and partner sales organizations recommend complete Tripp Lite solutions for applications such as edge computing, networking and data center infrastructure.

Corey and his team exemplify the value-add Tripp Lite has to offer our channel partners, said Glen Haeflinger, Tripp Lites President. Our partners consistently credit the Data Center Application Team as differentiators in the sales process. We thank Corey for his dedication and congratulate him on this well-deserved recognition from CRN.

Managing a successful channel partner program today calls for a small army of people, but only a few Channel Chiefs tend to enjoy widespread recognition, said Blaine Raddon, CEO of The Channel Company. With the 100 People You Dont Know But Should, we are delighted to shine a spotlight on an exceptional group of unsung team members, giving them some of the acclaim they deserve for their indispensable contributions to channel success.

The 100 People You Dont Know But Should will be featured in the October issue of CRN Magazine and can be found online at http://www.crn.com/100people.

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Since 1922, Tripp Lite has established a global reputation for quality by providing reliable products and exceptional service to customers worldwide. From desktop to critical infrastructure, Tripp Lite products and solutions power and connect the computers, networking equipment and electronic devices that form the foundation of our digital world. Headquartered in Chicago, Tripp Lite manufactures UPS systems, cables, connectivity solutions, PDUs, racks, cooling solutions, KVM switches, console servers, charging stations, display mounts, surge protectors, power strips, network switches, power inverters and specialty products for data center, healthcare, government, education and digital signage applications. Learn more at tripplite.com.

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The Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance with our dominant media, engaging events, expert consulting and education and innovative marketing services and platforms. As the channel catalyst, we connect and empower technology suppliers, solution providers and end users. Backed by more than 30 years of unequalled channel experience, we draw from our deep knowledge to envision innovative new solutions for ever-evolving challenges in the technology marketplace.

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Pennsylvanias top election official on Wednesday sought to assure the states voters that the 2020 election will be free and fair while also tackling disinformation about the states mail-in voting process.

A Luzerne County temporary election workers decision to throw out nine overseas mail-in ballots appears to be a mistake, Pennsylvania Secretary of State Kathy Boockvar said during an online press conference Wednesday. She noted the matter is being investigated by local, state and federal authorities.

This was a bad error, she said. This was not intentional fraud. So training, training, training (is needed).

Overseas ballots looks different than typical mail-in ballots and it appears some were sent back in envelopes that did not clearly denote they were ballots, said Jonathan Marks, deputy secretary for elections and commissions.

When the mail was opened, the ballots shouldve been sealed in a new envelope and placed with other ballots to be counted on Election Day, he said. All of the ballots were cast for President Donald Trump.

The temporary worker, who has been fired, did not consult with county election staff before discarding the ballots, Marks said. If they had, this wouldnt have happened, he said. They were found by the county elections director, Boockvar, a Democrat, said.

It sounds like it was confusion, Marks said of the error.

Workers in the Luzerne County elections office are now getting training in properly handling military and overseas ballots. Boockvar praised the county for appropriately responding to the mistake and seeking help to prevent a repeat.

Pennsylvania elections officials are preparing for a record number of voters to vote by mail as the coronavirus pandemic accelerates the states implementation of no-excuse absentee voting.

About 2.3 million mail-in ballots have been approved so far with the majority on their way to voters already, Boockvar said Wednesday. Registered Democrats are applying for mail-in ballots at a rate of nearly 3 to 1 over Republicans.

Voters can vote in-person at the polls Nov. 3, vote by mail or vote early in-person at their county election office if they have not yet applied for a mail-in ballot.

Dont wait, Boockvar urged of requesting ballots and completing them. Do it now.

She urged the state Legislature to pass a law allowing counties to start preparing ballots for counting before 7 a.m. on Election Day, a measure supported by Gov. Tom Wolf and the states counties. Many states allow election workers to verify signatures, remove ballots from envelopes and flatten them  known as pre-canvasing  to make counting go faster on Nov. 3.

Pennsylvania officials have warned that the battleground states current law may make it difficult to have complete election results the night of Nov. 3. The state may have as much as 10 times as many mail ballots than in past presidential elections, Boockvar said.

It is common sense to allow the counties to start pre-canvasing earlier, she said. ... It should be completely noncontroversial.

The president has repeatedly pointed to the nine ballots as evidence of election fraud in the last week, including during Tuesdays presidential debate where he sought to cast doubt on the legitimacy of the election process and accused Philadelphia of blocking poll watchers. Trumps increasingly mounted false attacks on the mail-in voting process alleging its open to fraud. Hes also made false claims about poll watchers being blocked in Philadelphia.

Bad things happen in Philadelphia, bad things, he said during Tuesdays presidential debate.

Trump is trailing Democratic nominees Joe Biden in national polls and in battleground states, including Pennsylvania, where an ABC News/Washington Post survey released Tuesday found Biden leads Trump by 9 points among likely voters in a state the president narrowly won four years ago.

Trumps campaign has threatened a lawsuit by Wednesday evening if it does not gain access soon for its campaign officials to observe activity inside newly opened satellite election offices in Philadelphia, where people can register to vote, apply for mail-in ballots, fill them out and hand them in. The campaign insists it has a legal right to observe the voting process in the heavily Democratic citys satellite election offices.

Election lawyers say there is no right under Pennsylvania law, even for a certified poll watcher, to observe inside an election office where someone is registering to vote, applying for a mail-in ballot or filling one out.

Boockvar echoed that on Wednesday calling the Trump campaigns assertions about poll watchers completely inaccurate. There are no actual Pennsylvania polling locations open right now, so there is no legal right to poll watching, she said. Voters are casting ballots at satellite elections office in a new process where voters can apply for a mail ballot and complete it on the spot.

They dont have any right to be present in county elections offices, Boockvar said.

Trump retweeted claims on Twitter on Tuesday by his son Eric and a campaign staffer that Trump campaign employees were being blocked or kicked out of Philadelphias newly opened satellite offices.

In Tuesday nights presidential debate with Biden, the Democratic presidential nominee, Trump repeated that claim, as he urged his supporters to serve as poll watchers. The president also said he would not go along with an election result if he sees tens of thousands of ballots being manipulated.

Under state law, campaigns and parties can officially appoint several poll watchers per precinct to observe voting and raise legal challenges. They are usually appointed a few days before Election Day, so none are certified currently, Boockvar said.

She said Al Schmidt, one of Phillys commissioners, who runs elections, got it right when he told The Philadelphia Inquirer:

We dont give someone a poll watcher certificate to  watch somebody fill out their ballot at their kitchen table, Schmidt, a Republican, is quoted as saying.

The Northampton County GOP answered Trumps call on Wednesday morning, urging folks to sign up as poll watchers.

Meanwhile, Wednesday, state House Republican lawmakers began advancing a just-introduced resolution to independently set up a committee with subpoena power to investigate how the election is being conducted.

As part of his long-running effort to discredit voting by mail and cast doubt on any election result that goes against him, Trump told a rally at Harrisburg International Airport on Saturday night that the only way he can lose Pennsylvania is if Democrats cheat.

Theyre going to try to steal the election. ... The only they way to win Pennsylvania frankly is to cheat on the ballots, Trump said.

Trump has targeted Philadelphia before.

In his 2016 campaign, Trump claimed that the only way he could lose Pennsylvania is if there is cheating, and, during an October campaign stop in the state, he singled out Philadelphia as a city to watch.

Trump won Pennsylvania by about 44,000 votes, or less than 1 percentage point, but he lost Philadelphia to Democrat Hillary Clinton in 2016 by 67 percentage points, or about 475,000 votes. Luzerne, Northampton and Erie counties are the only three counties in the state that twice voted for Barack Obama and flipped to Trump in 2016.

Poll watching is already being litigated by the Trump campaign, which has sued in federal court to invalidate a provision in state law that limits poll watchers to residents of that county. Republican lawmakers also have pushed to remove the provision from law, both in 2016 and 2020.

Wolf in 2016 threatened to veto the bill and opposes removing the county residency requirement now, his office said.

Democrats say efforts to end the county residency requirement are part of the Trump campaigns wider strategy of voter intimidation and suppression by targeting polling places and mail-in ballots in Philadelphia and other heavily Democratic areas.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Sara K. Satullo may be reached at ssatullo@lehighvalleylive.com.
VINCENNES and WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind - Vincennes University has announced a partnership with Purdue Universitys Cyber Apprenticeship Program (P-CAP) to provide two online associate degree programs and an online cybersecurity certificate for students registered in Purdues innovative apprenticeship program.

Vincennes is the only university providing the opportunity to earn stackable degree programs at the one-year or two-year degree programs level as part of the Purdue Cyber Apprenticeship Program. Students in the Vincennes University programs will have the opportunity to transfer credits to Purdue University, including the bachelors and masters degree programs offered within the Purdue Cyber Apprenticeship Program.

We are excited to partner with Purdue on this initiative that allows employers and employees to engage in the learning process. Cybersecurity is not just an IT initiative, and the apprenticeship program will bring awareness to the hundreds of cyber-related competencies needed across the organization to secure digital assets, said Jaci Lederman, associate professor and chair of the information technology department at Vincennes University.

Apprentices pursuing an online IT Support and Cybersecurity associate degree from Vincennes University study the forensic investigative side of cybersecurity along with the information and network security side. Students learn how to protect information systems from threats as well as how to administer servers and build, repair, and troubleshoot computers and servers.

The online computer science associate degree from Vincennes University provides a unique opportunity to learn how a computer works while learning to code in the first year. Students learn specific skills in coding and computational algorithm development, explore how to push the limits of what a computer can accomplish, and learn a variety of computer languages that prepare them to develop applications for multiple platforms.

Apprentices registered in Vincennes Universitys online Cybersecurity and Network Operations Certificate program learn a variety of different applications, equipment, tools, and scenarios that are all designed to provide the necessary skills for a quick response to security incidents. Students will also learn how to assess, design, and implement security solutions to strengthen the security posture of an organization.

Purdue University and Vincennes University are configuring a one-of-a-kind cyber competency-based dashboard built using the NICE Cybersecurity Workforce Framework, a nationally-focused resource that establishes a taxonomy and common lexicon to describe cybersecurity work, and workers, regardless of where, or for whom, the work is performed.

By offering two online associate degree programs along with a certificate for the Purdue Cyber Apprenticeship Program curriculum, Vincennes University will equip future cyber professionals with advanced skills and expertise by providing a wide range of innovative education and training, allowing students an opportunity to be part of the solution to growing cybersecurity threats.

To learn more and apply for the Purdue Cyber Apprenticeship Program, visit purdue.edu/pcap/candidates.

About Vincennes University  Indianas First College

Vincennes University in Indiana is state-supported with campuses in Vincennes and Jasper, the Aviation Technology Center and American Sign Language program in Indianapolis, Early College Career and Technical Education Centers, and additional sites such as the Gene Haas Training and Education Center in Lebanon, the Logistics Training and Education Center in Plainfield, and the Gibson County Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics in Fort Branch.

Vincennes Universitys tuition and fees are the lowest among Indiana campuses with residence halls. In addition to offering more than 200 associate degree, bachelors degree, and certificate programs, VU offers online degrees and classes to students who need access to college courses and flexibility through its distance education. A leader in dual-credit and career and technical education statewide, VU provides instruction at military sites throughout the nation. VU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and enrolls students from throughout Indiana, 36 other states, and 21 additional countries.

Founded in 1801, VU is Indianas first college and is the only college in the nation founded by an individual who would later become president of the United States. William Henry Harrison, the ninth U.S. president, founded VU while serving as governor of the Indiana Territory. More information is available at www.vinu.edu.

About Purdue Cyber Apprenticeship Program

Purdue Cyber Apprenticeship Program (P-CAP) was developed in response to the federal governments desire to fill an industry need of as many as 3.5 million cybersecurity jobs by 2021 (The New York Times). A $12 million U.S. Department of Labor Education and Training Award granted to Purdue Polytechnic Institute has tasked the University with providing a path to higher education, certifications, and cybersecurity on-the-job-learning through apprenticeships to at least 5,000 students by 2023. For more information, visit purdue.edu/pcap.

Media contact: Jim Bush, 765-336-1909, jsbush@purdue.edu
New Phuket Provincial Police Commander arrives

PHUKET: Pol Maj Gen Pornsak Nuannu has arrived in Phuket to officially begin his duties as the new Commander of the Phuket Provincial Police.

police

By The Phuket News

Thursday 1 October 2020, 05:17PM

Pol Maj Gen Pornsak Nuannu was officially installed as the new Commander of the Phuket Provincial Police at a ceremony yesterday (Sept 30). Photo: Phuket Provincial Police

Pol Maj Gen Pornsak Nuannu was officially installed as the new Commander of the Phuket Provincial Police at a ceremony yesterday (Sept 30). Photo: Phuket Provincial Police

Pol Maj Gen Pornsak Nuannu was officially installed as the new Commander of the Phuket Provincial Police at a ceremony yesterday (Sept 30). Photo: Phuket Provincial Police

Pol Maj Gen Pornsak Nuannu was officially installed as the new Commander of the Phuket Provincial Police at a ceremony yesterday (Sept 30). Photo: Phuket Provincial Police

Pol Maj Gen Pornsak Nuanu was officially installed as the new Commander of the Phuket Provincial Police at a ceremony yesterday (Sept 30). Photo: Phuket Provincial Police

A farewell and handover ceremony for outgoing commander Maj Gen Rungrote Thakurapunyasiri was held at the Phuket Provincial Police Station in Phuket Town yesterday morning (Sept 30).

At the event yesterday, attended by Phuket Governor Narong Woonciew, Maj Gen Pornsak vowed, I promise to work hard and try my best while performing my duties in this position.

I believe that with the skills and potential of all police in Phuket, we will work together smoothly and achieve our goals of taking care of local people, and tourists in the future, he added.

Gen Pornsak officially took up his position as the new Phuket Provincial Police commander yesterday (Oct 1). he arrived from his previous post as Commander of the Ranong Provincial Police.

Maj Gen Pornsak has previously served as a Deputy Commander of the Phuket Provincial Police, a post he took up in 2010, before being transferred out of the province.

Maj Gen Rungrote Thakurapunyasiri has been transferred to take up the post of Commander of Immigration Division Region 3 based in Bangkok.
MBHULENI  Mysterious!

Residents of Mbhuleni are still reeling from shock after an animal believed to be a black cat bearing unusual paraphernalia, was found dead at a Lukhele homestead on Monday morning.

Many people associate black cats with superstitious beliefs and bad omens, specifically linked to black magic practices. The unusual discovery was made by tenants residing within the Lukhele homestead on Monday morning, before they left for their respective workplaces.

Landlady

While relaying her version of events, the landlady, Nomsa Lukhele, said she was preparing for her day at about 10am, when one of her tenants approached her house and requested her to view a dead animal near the entrance to her homestead. Curious about the mysterious animal, Lukhele narrated that although she insisted that the tenant describe what the dead animal was, her tenant failed to describe it. She recalled that her tenant was not sure if it was a mongoose, or a cat. Upon viewing the dead animal, Lukhele said she was shocked to find that it had a black and red sash with a small calabash attached to its neck.

Lukhele expressed that she was still in shock after the discovery, but she believed that her Christian beliefs were stronger than black magic. I was so shaken such that I elected to spend the night at a friends house because I did not know the true intentions of the person who placed the dead animal with the black magic paraphernalia within the homestead. However, because I am a landlady with tenants who need my assistance at times, I had to gather my strength to return home, she expressed. While emphasising that the person who placed the dead animal in her homestead was unknown to her, she expressed that she was aware of the powers attached to black magic, but she believed God protected her against all harm.

Bible

In saying that, Lukhele quoted a Bible verse related to the effect that God created all living things and creatures, even those that wished death upon others.
An investigation is still underway into whether nine workers contracted COVID-19 inside the state's revamped hotel quarantine program, despite government claims that none of the workers were infected as a result of their participation in the program.

Deputy Chief Health Officer Allen Cheng said on Thursday that genomic data about how the workers came to be infected was still being processed.

Deputy Chief Health Officer Allen Cheng addresses media with Premier Daniel Andrews. Credit:Joe Armao

The government said on Tuesday none of the workers  which included five Spotless subcontractors  were infected as a result of their work in the program.

However, Professor Cheng said on Thursday the investigation of the cases and the genomic data testing was still ongoing.
Africas oil and gas industry is facing a financial onslaught as a result of a combination of COVID-19, activist shareholders and the so-called Greening of IOCs such as Shell, Total and BP. While the oil majors all seem to be preparing for an energy transition and peak oil demand, African countries are betting on a hydrocarbon future. As Shell, BP, and Total make headlines with their diversification away from oil, the largest Sub-Saharan oil and gas producer Nigeria is taking the opposite route. In a long-awaited revision of the Nigerian oil and gas sector, which has been rife with corruption, fraud, and mismanagement by former governments, a bill proposing a possible IPO of the national oil company Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) is now being discussed by parliament. In the new proposal, NNPC will be changed into a limited liability company, fully operating on a commercial basis. NNPC Ltd is to be managed by the Nigerian Ministry of Finance. The biggest impact of this policy if passed is that there will no longer be government funding of NNPC operations. In the case of an IPO, NNPC shares will be offered at market value in an open, transparent, and competitive bidding process. To support a possible share-sale the bill states that an annual audit must be performed by an independent auditor.

The current solution comes after 20 years of political infighting regarding the role and future of the NNPC. The main reasons for this aggressive change of stance seem to be the success of the Aramco IPO, the potential to bring in $200 billion, and the potential to value the NOC at $2 trillion. Another key reason is the increased international pressure on hydrocarbon financing around the world. To counter this pressure, African NOCs such as NNPC are now looking at restructuring their operations and opening up their books. NNPCs potential IPO will not attract the same level of investors as Aramco, but African private investors and possibly other NOCs and their Sovereign Wealth Funds (SWF) will have their eyes on the Nigerian development. There are already indications that Arab, Russian, and Chinese investment funds are considering the investment. While Nigerias oil and gas sector has a rather dubious reputation, the countrys on and offshore reserves are vast and produce the right crude qualities. At the same time, NNPCs reserves and projects are seen as an access point for investors looking to other emerging markets in Africa. The NNPC will also be of interest to local investors or operators such as Oando. The divestment and retraction of Shell, Total, and others from Sub-Sahara, especially from Nigerian offshore, has opened up new opportunities for incumbents or new investors, such as Aramco and ADNOC.

Related: Natural Gas Prices Explode On Stronger Demand

In 2018, NNPCs National Petroleum Investment Management Services division, the companys biggest income generator, reported revenue of 5.04 trillion nairas ($13 billion), and a profit of 1.01 trillion nairas. These figures were published in June, for the first time in 43 years. At the same time, Nigerian President Buharis government has embarked on a more market-focused energy strategy. At present, Nigerias government budgets are deep in the red, with the country facing its worst economic contraction in a decade. Underlying economics have pushed the Buhari government to remove subsidies and consider restructuring entire sectors.

Despite the move towards privatization, there are still some critics who believe the new plan does not go far enough. An earlier attempt at privatization back in 2012 aimed to do something similar but even more ambitious. At that time, full privatization was proposed with a fixed target date for the IPO and a set price range. This policy still needs to be fully approved by Nigerias government and parliament before a listing on the Nigerian Stock Exchange can take place.

If Nigeria manages to reap the much-needed financial attention it desires from this move, we can expect to see more National Oil Companies to follow suit. The current financial crisis and the lack of access to financial markets mean that privatization and an opening up of new financial opportunities is a must for these companies. Nigeria, Angola, and other African oil and gas producers all need to monetize their own resources. These are assets that these nations and companies cannot afford to be stranded.

By Cyril Widdershoven for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Frantic efforts are under way to open as many as 1,000 more college places as the Government battles to calm the latest storm to hit the Leaving Cert calculated grades process.

Tanaiste Leo Vardakar and Higher Education Minister Simon Harris told the Fine Gael parliamentary meeting last night that 1,000 more places may be needed on top of approximately 6,300 new ones already created this year.

Education Minister Norma Foley is at the centre of new controversy after it emerged two computer coding errors left about 6,500 Leaving Cert 2020 students with at least one lower grade than they should have been awarded.

Read More

The mistakes have denied an unknown number - but estimated at up to 1,000 or more - of CAO applicants a preferred college offer, and higher education chiefs are meeting today to see how that can be put right.

It could cost about 10m to fund the extra places and it also leaves the Government dealing with the political fall-out from another debacle.

Higher Education Authority chief executive Alan Wall is meeting registrars of the universities and institutes of technology today to work through the possibilities of more offers, and he said the feedback was "positive".

Meanwhile, Mr Harris said "any resources required to provide additional college places will be forthcoming".

Trinity College Dublin provost Dr Patrick Prendergast said: "We are prepared to do anything in our power to find places for them if those places are fully funded by Government." Overall, there are about 7,200 subject upgrades involved but it does not mean every student will have enough extra points for a higher offer - up to 1,000 or more are anticipated.

Further checks are under way - including by international experts, Educational Testing Services - and Ms Foley said work would be complete in coming days when she would make a Dail statement. Students will be advised by text message whether they are affected.

The minister has offered "sincere apologies" for "errors that should not have occurred". She said she became aware last Wednesday and spoke directly to Taoiseach Micheal Martin about it.

Junior education minister Josepha Madigan told the Fine Gael meeting she only heard about it on the news at 1pm yesterday and was not contacted by Ms Foley until 3pm. A source said Ms Madigan was not "over the moon" about being informed so late on.

Senior party sources have said Mr Varadkar's office and Mr Harris were aware of the issue late last week. Mr Harris was told on Friday that hundreds of extra college places may be required, but the extent of the issue was not known. The three coalition party leaders discussed the issue on Monday, but other coalition ministers were not informed at the Cabinet meeting on Tuesday.

The Department of Education became aware of one error last Tuesday when the Canadian statistics company, Polymetrika International - which developed the software for processing the data - told them it had spotted a mistake.

"At that point, we know one line out of 50,000 lines of code had a mistake in it," said Ms Foley, adding it was important to find out as much as possible before making an announcement.

The error affected the way in which candidates' Junior Cycle results were included in the national standardisation process, which involved a series of checks and balances on estimated marks sent in by schools

It was intended the students' Junior Cycle results in Irish, English and Maths would be combined with their best two other subjects but instead, they were put together with their weakest two subjects.

The department found a second error in the same section of the code.

Junior Cycle Civic, Social and Political Education results were included in the calculations when they were supposed to have been disregarded. Polymetrika has been paid 160,000 to date.

The Irish Second Level Students' Union said it had particular concerns about the financial situation students may potentially face and said that those who had paid deposits/instalments for accommodation which would no longer be needed should be reimbursed.

Teachers' Union of Ireland general secretary Michael Gillespie said when viewed against alternatives, "the value of the traditional, independent Leaving Certificate and the public trust it enjoys should be apparent to all".

Association of Secondary Teachers Ireland president Ann Piggott said that teachers were assured the calculated grades process was "robust and fair" for students and they were now "shocked and disappointed".
British lawmakers were set Wednesday to renew the governments sweeping powers to impose emergency restrictions to curb the coronavirus pandemic though many slammed the way Prime Minister Boris Johnsons Conservative administration has used them.

Legislators are increasingly unhappy about the governments handling of the pandemic, which has seen Britain go from a national lockdown imposed in March to a patchwork of local measures of varying stringency. Along the way, Britain's official virus death toll has reached more than 42,000  the highest in Europe  and the country is seeing a second spike in new daily cases.

But there is little lawmakers can do about the government's response because of the powers that Parliament granted the government six months ago in the Coronavirus Act.

Lindsay Hoyle, the impartial Speaker of the House of Commons, said the government had treated lawmakers with contempt, with new laws being brought in without scrutiny and measures sometimes published just hours before taking effect. That created travel chaos for Britons on holiday this summer, as many had to rush home in the middle of their vacations when the government changed its quarantine rules.

I am looking to the government to remedy a situation I regard as completely unsatisfactory, Hoyle said.

The powers in the act must be renewed every six months, and Health Secretary Matt Hancock said it was too soon to lift them now.

This act is still needed to keep people safe, Hancock told lawmakers. He said the law contained extraordinary measures, but they remain temporary, time-limited and proportional to the threat we face.

Johnsons Conservative government has faced growing criticism from its own lawmakers, who feel restrictions on daily life brought in to slow the spread of the virus are stifling the economy. Dozens of Conservative legislators had threatened to rebel against the measures, but were assuaged by a government promise that Parliament will get a vote on future significant national measures.

On the other side of the political spectrum, the opposition Labour Party accuses the government of botching the battle against the virus and failing to protect lives.

We have ended up with one of the highest death rates in the world and on the verge of one of the deepest recessions, said Labour home-affairs spokesman Nick Thomas-Symonds.

Things cannot go on as they are, he said, al though he added that Labour would not vote against renewing the powers.

The number of new hospitalizations for COVID-19 and virus deaths in Britain are rising again, although both remain far below their springtime peak.

___

Follow APs pandemic coverage at http://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak and https://apnews.com/UnderstandingtheOutbreak
Union Minister of Commerce and Industries Piyush Goyal on Thursday said directionless and issueless opposition is trying to mislead farmers of the country over the farm laws. "The Opposition is directionless and is not left with any issue so they are trying to mislead farmers. However, they cannot mislead farmers beyond a limited area," Goyal said at a press conference here.

He was here as part of BJP's campaign to address the issues related to farm laws and hold discussion with variousstakeholders. President Ram Nath Kovind on Sunday gave assent to the three contentious bills  Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill; Farmers' (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill; and Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill.

Goyal said that strengthening farmers has been the priority of the Narendra Modi-led government, which believes that if the farmer is empowered, the country will become stronger. He said that Centre has been working tirelessly for six consecutive years to bring changes in the lives of farmers, increase their production and fetch right price for their produce.

Goyal said that the farmers have been tied up in many chains for years and the Centre has taken transformative steps to ensure that the farmers get rid of them. "Now, the farmer is free to sell his products to anyone and anywhere. Neither we have abolished the mandis nor the Agricultural Produce and Livestock Market Committee. While maintaining the system, the farmer can sell the product anywhere he wishes," Goyal said.

Goyal said that through these laws, farmers have also been made self-reliant and given opportunities to increase their income. On the issue of minimum support price, Goyal said under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, MSP payments to farmers in the last six years almost doubled as compared to the tenure of the UPA government.

"The farmers of the country have full faith in the intentions and policies of Prime Minister Modi," he said. Earlier, Goyal consulted people related to the agriculture sector and answered various questions in a dialogue programme organised on the steps taken by the Union government to benefit the farmers and empower them.

Union ministers Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Kailash Chaudhary were also present on the occasion.
(Newser)  They thought they'd found love. But Sayeda and Anjali, pseudonyms given to two teenage girls born into poverty and sold to the same Indian brothel, were fooled, as Yudhijit Bhattacharjee writes in an expose of child trafficking for National Geographic. Sayeda, an aspiring dancer from Khulna, Bangladesh, who by age 14 had already escaped an abusive marriage, and Anjali, a 16-year-old factory worker from West Bengal, India, with only a baby goat for company, had both fallen for boys who turned out to be traffickers. It's a profitable profession in this region, where poor young women are often left alone by working parents who struggle to support them. Traffickers might receive $650 per targetabout "as much as many factory workers make in five months," Bhattacharjee writes. Each day, the girls were forced to have sex with 20 or more clients, who paid the girls' captors about $7 at most.

story continues below

If the girls refused to participate, they were beaten savagely. Anjali showed Bhattacharjee a mark where the brothel operator had put out a cigarette on her lip. But Sayeda and Anjali were some of the lucky ones. They managed to escape following a police raid, though they later told Bhattacharjee that police officers were among their abusers. "Brothel owners and traffickers who exploit minors are often able to get away with their crimes not just because the police fail to enforce the law but also because India's judicial system leaves open many avenues of escape," Bhattacharjee writes, describing intimidation tactics, a backlog of legal cases, and the millions of rupees some defendants can spend on legal fees. For victims, escape doesn't necessarily mean freedom. Indeed, Sayeda died in the months after meeting Bhattacharjee as a result of what she might call pain-numbing. The story continues here. (Read more child trafficking stories.)
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind.  An anonymous $1 million cash gift from a member of the Purdue University College of Engineering community will establish scholarships named in honor of the colleges first Black graduate as an impetus to energize and expand ongoing support to recruit and retain Black engineering students.

This gift extends a trend that has seen the total number of endowed scholarships for underrepresented minorities surge since 2013from 43 to 140 as of Aug. 31 with committed dollars quadrupling from $4.7 million to $17.2 million.

The new diversity in engineering scholarship endowment is named in memory of alumnus David Robert Lewis, who graduated from Purdue with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering in 1894. A native of Greensburg, Indiana, Lewis was one of only nine Black students who graduated from Indiana colleges between the Civil War and the year 1900.

There is no way to overstate the importance of this generous, timely gift, said Purdue President Mitch Daniels.

Daniels said Purdue is recruiting minority students in every way it can. That was the goal behind our creation of three Purdue Polytechnic High Schools, our Summer Start conditional acceptance program, our emerging Leadership Scholarships fund, and other initiatives. We are dedicated to preparing underrepresented students to enroll and succeed in STEM disciplines at the college leveland ideally at Purdue. This latest giftand those it inspireswill help make a huge difference for the students who work toward and dream about coming to our University.

The David Robert Lewis Engineering Scholarship comes at a time when our college is redoubling its efforts to increase the number of Black engineering students at Purdue and to provide the climate and support they need to succeed, said Mark Lundstrom, acting dean of the College of Engineering and the Don and Carol Scifres Distinguished Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering.

For a land-grant university like Purdue, this is simply living up to our mission of offering the opportunity for an affordable, excellent education to all of our citizens.

Lundstrom added that he hopes that this gift from one of our own will inspire others in the college to do what they can, financially or otherwise, to address this critical challenge.

The new Lewis diversity scholarship also builds on the College of Engineerings legacy of improving diversity and inclusion at Purdue.

The National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) was conceived and founded at Purdue in 1975, launching a national model to help improve the recruitment and retention of Black engineering students.

Similarly, Purdues Minority Engineering Program (MEP), which started in 1974, was instrumental in the establishment of the national launch of NSBE. MEP is another of several initiatives to improve diversity and inclusion in the College of Engineering. About 3% of Purdue students are Black or African American.

"Central to the effort to improve access to minority students is affordability," said Virginia Booth Womack, director of the Minority Engineering Program. This magnificent gift presents a perfect example of how important it is to have more resources for underrepresented minority students. Over the years, we know from experience just how much philanthropy provides support that our students need both academically and financially. We are hopeful that gifts like this, as well as Purdues increased focus on affordability, will inspire others to contribute to scholarships and programs that are accessible to all.

John Gates, vice provost for diversity and inclusion, also praised the gift. We are very grateful to this donor for their generous support of our minority scholarship efforts. This gift will have significant impact on our ability to recruit and retain engineering students of color and to provide a robust and meaningful educational experience.

The Lyles School of Civil Engineering has long honored Lewiss legacy as a Purdue pioneer by celebrating his memory, courage, and accomplishmentsincluding his Purdue thesis, "Highway Road Construction, which reviewed European road-building practices.

Lewis went on to become an educator and businessman. Lewiss legacy also lives on in family members who live in Indianapolis.

To contribute, go here.

About Purdue University

Purdue University is a top public research institution developing practical solutions to todays toughest challenges. Ranked the No. 5 Most Innovative University in the United States by U.S. News & World Report, Purdue delivers world-changing research and out-of-this-world discovery. Committed to hands-on and online, real-world learning, Purdue offers a transformative education to all. Committed to affordability and accessibility, Purdue has frozen tuition and most fees at 2012-13 levels, enabling more students than ever to graduate debt-free. See how Purdue never stops in the persistent pursuit of the next giant leap at https://purdue.edu/.

Writer: Grant Flora

Media contact: Jim Bush, 765-336-1909, jsbush@purdue.edu

Sources: Mitch Daniels, president@purdue.edu

Mark Lundstrom, lundstro@purdue.edu

Virginia Booth Womack, vwomack@purdue.edu

Journalists visiting campus : Journalists should follow Protect Purdue protocols and the following guidelines:
Srinagar:

Security forces on Friday apprehended a suspected Lashkar-e-Taiba militant from Pulwama district of south Kashmir, a police official said.

Manzoor Ahmad Ganaie, who was reported missing since January 19, was apprehended by security forces during cordon and search operation at Nowpora in Pulwama this afternoon, the official said.

One pistol and two hand grenades were recovered from the possession of the arrested ultra, believed to be a member of LeT, the official said.

Further details of the incident are awaited as search operation was still in progress, he said.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
Google's Pixel 5 Google

Google unveiled the $700 Pixel 5 on Wednesday, one of its first 5G smartphones that's launching at a lower price than last year's Pixel 4 did.

It's built on the success of the Pixel 4a and 3a, as Google says its goal was to deliver affordability and 5G.

But it's also launching as the market for cheaper smartphones is getting more competitive with new low-cost models from Apple and Samsung.

Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Google made a big statement about how it hopes to differentiate its Pixel smartphones in an already crowded market: by offering lower prices.

Google took the wraps off its new Pixel 5 flagship on Wednesday, which starts at $700 and is among Google's first phones to offer 5G support.

The Pixel 5's $700 price tag might not seem unusually cheap compared to some of its rivals. But the fact that it's the priciest phone in Google's lineup, not a starting point, says a lot about the search giant's approach to the industry.

"What the world doesn't seem like it needs right now is another $1,000 phone," Rick Osterloh, Google's senior vice president of devices and services, said on a call with reporters on Wednesday.

Other than 5G, the Pixel 5 doesn't offer much that's new to the industry, marking a stark contrast from last year's Pixel 4. The headline feature of that phone was its Motion Sense capabilities, which allow users to control the device using gestures without physically touching it.

But it also came with a higher starting price of $800. This year, Google is doubling down on value and catching up where the Pixel 4 fell short, particularly when it comes to its camera and battery life.

Google isn't finished with its Soli technology, the miniature radar it built into the Pixel 4 that powers its motion sensing features, according to Osterloh. But it's focus for 2020 is on delivering 5G at an accessible price. Early phones that supported 5G all came at a premium price, but that's started to shift over the past year as companies like Samsung and OnePlus have launched affordable 5G devices.

Story continues

"I'm really glad we built these technologies, they'll be used in the future," he said. "But they're very expensive, and so we wanted to try to offer a lot of value this year and that's what we did."

To accomplish this, Google is building off the success of its cheaper A-series line of devices. Last year's $400 Pixel 3a became the best-selling unlocked phone on Amazon in the US shortly following its launch. It released a follow-up to that phone in August, the $350 Pixel 3a, and on Wednesday introduced a 5G version for $500.

"I think the easiest way to think about it is: Pixel 4a, I think, has done a great job of delivering the essential smartphone elements," Osterloh said. "And we built out from that."

Google's Pixel 3a and 4a have earned praise from tech critics, but the competition for cheaper smartphones has only increased since the 3a's launch last May. Apple introduced a direct rival in its $400 iPhone SE, which it began selling in April. One analyst also expects it to launch a cheaper version of the upcoming iPhone 12 without 5G in 2021.

Samsung is also launching the Galaxy S20 Fan Edition, a $700 version of its flagship phone that comes with differences in terms of its design and camera.

Still, that doesn't mean Google is completely done with high-end phones.

"I wouldn't rule it out," Osterloh said in response to a question about whether Google would compete in the $1,000 smartphone market again. "Certainly what we announced today is where we're at right now."

Read the original article on Business Insider
(Alliance News) - Ocado Group PLC on Thursday said it has not received any letters from a Norwegian firm that has accused the online grocer of infringing its technology patents.

Ocado shares were 5.8% lower at 2,586.00 pence each in London on Thursday afternoon.

Autostore AS on Thursday said it has sued and has already filed complaints in the US - to both the US International Trade Commission and US District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia - and in the UK to the High Court of England and Wales.

"Ocado Smart Platform's automated storage and retrieval system unlawfully infringes AutoStore's patented technology," Autostore said.

Ocado Smart Platform is a storage and picking system used in fulfilment centres.

Autostore's system also is used in warehouses and its list of clients includes Walmart Inc's Asda, Johnson & Johnson and Siemens AG.

Ocado on Thursday noted Autostore's statement but said it has not received "any papers in relation to these claims".

"This is the first we have heard of this new claim," the FTSE 100-listed firm said.

"We are not aware of any infringement of any valid Autostore rights and of course we will investigate any claims once we receive further details. We have multiple patents protecting the use of our systems in grocery and we are investigating whether Autostore has, or intends to infringe those patents. We will always vigorously protect our intellectual property."

By Eric Cunha; ericcunha@alliancenews.com

Copyright 2020 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
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We have been discussing the importance of womens health for decades without significant advancement for the issues at hand.

I propose a new perspective on the topic that focuses on the financial health of a business. As physicians, we do not even consider the full extent to which womens health can impact our own business. The two aspects of business to be considered in this situation involve evaluating the cost of employee turnover and the loss of revenue from decreased productivity.

There is significant data showing the relationship between an increased number of women in the workforce and increased financial benefits for companies. Between 1980-2010, there was a 4% increase in wage growth, with a 7% increase in the number of female employees. Furthermore, a financial model proposed in the Harvard Business Review noted that for every 10% increase in female labor force participation, there was a 5% increase in median wages for both men and women. Part of this rise could be contributed to the increased skill levels in women in addition to the higher number of college and graduate degrees obtained by women compared to men.

Costs related to employee turnover

There is a high cost to replace an employee. An analysis of 15 studies revealed that the cost to replace an 8$/hour employee costs a business anywhere between $5,500  $9,000 per turnover. Small business owners can spend up to 40% of their working hours on tasks related to non-income generating tasks just as hiring. Most research has shown it can take anywhere from 8-26 weeks for a new employee to reach their full potential, effectively costing the business 1-2.5% of their revenue during that transition.

An unintended consequence of employee turnover is employee morale. Morale can lead to lower work production, decreased product quality, and deteriorating customer service. This indirectly raises costs for employers.

Employee retention is a key factor in the economic success of a business. Creating an environment that limits turnover by female employees allow higher business growth potential.

Costs related to decrease productivity

Productivity losses related to personal and family health problems cost U.S. employers $225.8 billion annually. There are a number of incentives employed by some companies to promote healthy lifestyles and thus decrease this burden, but there needs to be further considerations to help decrease this disparity.

Data has shown that women have increased rates of job-specific health issues. In addition, there are more work-related injuries due to improperly fitted tools or equipment that are not designed to accommodate female bodies versus male bodies. These can directly impact productivity without necessarily affecting absenteeism. They impact presenteeism  the issue whereby employees are not fully functioning in the workplace because of illness or injury.

There is significant room for financial growth of a company that accommodates the health needs of its female employees.

The two most common female health issues that can impact employee retention and productivity are endometriosis and menopause. Endometriosis affects 10-20% of women of reproductive age. Menopause and perimenopause affect an additional 15 million women. These numbers suggest that at any given time, there is a large proportion of working women who are dealing with gynecologic issues that may be impacting their work.

Why are endometriosis and menopause so challenging in the workplace?

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a painful condition for many women. Women can suffer a variety of symptoms, many of which impact their ability to perform work uninterrupted. Women frequently require around the clock pain medication and frequent trips to the bathroom. The physical burden of this pain monthly often leads to additional feelings of anxiety and depression.

In the most severe cases, women miss 1-2 days a month of school or work. Women also require more frequent medical care and appointments to treat endometriosis.

Menopause

The average age of menopause is 51 years old. In 2018 there were 15.5 million women employed between the age of 44-55, of which 20% of that population already was experiencing symptoms of menopause. By 2024 the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that there will be over 55 million women over the age of 55 in the U.S. Labor Force.

Up to 50% of perimenopausal women experience hot flashes, 60% experience brain fog, 25% experience new and unexplained depression, and 40% have sleep disturbances, all of which impact productivity. Unfortunately, menopause is not a one-time event. The years leading up to menopause can range from 10-14 years! One study noted that between 1990-2016 absenteeism from menopause-related symptoms cost employers $9.5 million dollars annually. This reflected only those with severe symptoms. What is also not considered is that menopause and perimenopause increase the risk of heart disease and osteoporosis, both of which have a direct impact on workplace productivity.

Additionally, men who are living with women dealing with any of these significant medical issues may find themselves also impacted in ways that limit their productivity at work. Many of the proposed solutions can have a direct and beneficial impact on male employees as well.

There are already a number of countries that have implanted changes to their workplace with positive effects. These changes do not have to be a large investment of money. Some of the solutions include:

Addition of an extra paid day off monthly Expand the opportunity for remote work from home Allow variations in scheduled work hours Allow insurances that cover birth control and hormones to help mitigate symptoms that can impact work Provide education and resources to managers or executives to help navigate the needs of women during these times Consider hiring more women in executive positions as this can foster increased communication with employees who are otherwise afraid to have open discussions about their situations

This information is just a small portion of the available data that not only supports the benefit of adding women to the workforce but creating a work environment that accommodates for health issues in order to have a direct impact on preventing employee turnover and decreased productivity.

Jessica Pearce is an obstetrician-gynecologist.

Image credit: Shutterstock.com
RSH Global, a leading Indian skincare company, today announced that it has appointed Madison Media as the Media Agency of Record (AOR) for their flagship brand Joy and their mens grooming brand X-Men. The account was awarded to them following a multi-agency pitch. Madison Media will be responsible for the entire media mandate, including print, television, radio, outdoor and digital.

Joy Personal Care offers quality skincare products at an affordable price point with key markets in the Hindi heartland. They are also in the process of sprucing up new markets starting with West Bengal and Maharashtra.

Also read: McDonalds entrusts Madison Media with Digital responsibilities

The brand recently signed on Kriti Sanon as the brand ambassador for its facewash category and unveiled their new campaign for their Lemon & Charcoal Facewash.

On awarding the media mandate to Madison, Sunil Agarwal, Chairman, RSH Global Private Limited, said, I welcome Sam, Vikram and the entire Madison team for partnering with us to handle our media & digital mandate. Ive been very impressed with the kind of work theyve done for many Indian brands over the last two decades and Im confident theyll play an instrumental role in the rapid growth of the brand and the business.

Poulomi Roy, Chief Marketing Officer, RSH Global Private Limited, added here, We are happy to have Madison as a partner in our journey to strengthen our position in key markets and explore new geographies. We are confident that with the ever-changing media scenario, Madison with their experience and in-depth understanding of the consumers of our country will be able to develop a robust media & digital strategy for our brand and add momentum to all our marketing initiatives.

Reacting to the win, Sam Balsara, Chairman, Madison World, said, I am super excited to partner with RSH Global, an ambitious personal care company operating successfully in the tough personal care segment with ambitious plans to help them meet their growing ambition, with Madisons experience and expertise.

Vikram Sakhuja, Group CEO Media & OOH, Madison Media, said Its a big win for Madison coming out of Kolkata. RSH Global is expanding its business and were happy to be their choice when it comes to their media agency. Looking forward to a growth-filled partnership.
An assassin who crept into a family home and shot dead a mother-of-nine and her sleeping nephew in a botched revenge hit has been jailed for at least 40 years.

Obina Ezeoke, 28, was convicted of double murder following an unprecedented five successive trials at the Old Bailey.

He executed student Bervil Kalikaka-Ekofo, 21, and his aunt Annie Ekofo, 53, after sneaking in through the unlocked door of their apartment in East Finchley, North London, in September 2016.

The killing was intended as a revenge hit after rivals - including Ms Ekofo's son Ryan Efey, 22 - shared footage of him being attacked on Snapchat, the Old Bailey heard.

Mr Efey was probably the intended target but Ezeoke decided he would kill anyone in the flat.

Sentencing him today, Judge Mrs Justice Cutts said she had considered a whole-life order but ultimately opted for life with a minimum term of 40 years.

She said: Your cold, callous and brutal murders of two people has not only cut short their lives but has ruined the lives of many.'

Juries in May 2018 and March last year failed to reach verdicts, despite the majority of jurors supporting a conviction.

In 2017 trial was stopped after a judge was forced to withdraw with agonising back pain.

Prosecutors made the exceptional choice to pursue a fifth trial after his last hearing collapsed due to the coronavirus pandemic in March.

Student Bervil Kalikaka-Ekofo, 21, (left) was shot in the back of the head by the assassin, prompting his aunt Annie Besala Ekofo, 53, (right) to investigate. She was shot in the chest

Defence solicitors for the killer had argued against a fifth trial, saying 'enough is enough'.

Ezeoke's lawyer James Scobie QC, said the case had a unique history with the crown opting for an unprecedented fifth trial.

He said: It is a case with unique history. Ive told my client its no part of our opportunity or duty to comment on any shape or form as the result of this case.

Its been a long road for everybody.

Whatever sentence is imposed today has to bear in mind that two people were murdered and murdered in a way that the defence accepted throughout the whole nature of this case.

Hes been a victim on three occasions himself one of which nearly cost him his life and one of which inextricably links him to the victims in this case.

The two desperate victims of this case. The whole connection as the court will know to that address related to a personal deep sense of grievance.

Obina Ezeoke, 28, was convicted today of the double murder at his fifth trial, following the brutal shooting in North London in 2016

Ezeoke fired a bullet into the back of psychology student Bervil's head with a vintage Western-style revolver as at her apartment in East Finchley, North London.

He then wheeled around and blasted the victim's aunt Annie Ekofo, 53, in the chest with the Smith and Wesson.44 when she came out of her bedroom dressed only in her underwear.

Neither Bervil nor Annie were the intended targets, the court was told.

Ezeoke carried out the killings as part of a 'vendetta of violence' before fleeing the scene in a Vauxhall Meriva at around 6.30am in the morning.

He maintained that he had been on Grahame Park estate in North London with four friends at the time of the murders.

Ezoeke slumped to his seat after a jury convicted him of the murder of Annie Ekofo, above, and her nephew

The killer claimed that gunshot residue particles discovered in the getaway car, which evidence showed had been bought and insured by him under a false name, came from a different shooting when others had used the vehicle.

Prosecutor Mark Heywood said: 'Ezeoke went there quite deliberately, with a gun and of course sufficient ammunition to use it, to attack and kill one of the young men of the family.

'His hate was such that he did not falter when confronted by a second person and he simply took her life as well. Both lives taken were wholly innocent.'

Mr Kalikaka-Ekofo was visiting the flat in East Finchley at short notice for one night only so he was not one of those who could have been expected to be there.

'It was two separate murders within a short space of time,' said Mr Heywood.

'No one could, or will, we understand, possibly suggest anything else.

'These were execution killings, in effect.'

A trial at the Old Bailey heard Ezeoke crept into the family home in East Finchley, London and targeted the aunt and nephew as an act of revenge, after a rival gang, including Ms Ekofo's son, attacked him and posted the video on Snapchat

Mr Heywood added: 'There had been a trend to modify ammunition to fit vintage weapons like the revolver and the overall likelihood is that that is what was done here.

'One of the typical guns you might see in a Western movie.'

Mrs Ekofo, who came to the UK with her husband from the Congo in 1991, lived with her family at the flat in Elmshurst Crescent in East Finchley.

Four other people were also in the house but were unharmed in the attack.

Mr Heywood told the court: 'Just after dawn in the early Autumn of 2016, an assassin crept noiselessly into a second floor family home.

'He had waited until that time in order to be able to get into the block.

'By his great good fortune, the door of the home was not locked.

Mr Kalikaka-Ekofo was only visiting his aunt's flat at short notice that night, the trial heard

'The layout of that flat, mirrored by others on the same estate, was probably known and clearly understood.

'At first, not one of the six people sleeping inside it heard anything at all.

'The killer moved forward to his left and then into a bedroom.

'There, just in front of him, was a young man lying on a thin mattress on the floor under a duvet, his head nearer the door resting on pillows.

'For the killer, this was as good a target as he could expect, a young man of this home, this house, of just the right age.

'He crept forward, gun in hand.

'His weapon was a deadly one, perfect for concealment in close quarters use, repeatedly if necessary. It was a revolver.

'The killer raised the muzzle just enough and placed it at the back of the sleeping head.

'And then, with a deliberation and purpose that was as cowardly as it was murderous, he simply pulled the trigger.

'The silence of the home, the neighbourhood, was shattered and the life was immediately taken.'

At the sound of the 'noise and so the hell he had just unleashed' Mrs Ekofo came out from her bedroom down the hall to investigate.

'The killer did not hesitate,' said Mr Heywood.

'Given his purpose and because he could not afford to be seen, and so caught, it suited him to use the weapon again.

'Rather than simply raise it for example to threaten or ward off, or just simply turn and run out of the front door, he instead levelled the weapon a second time and he pulled the trigger, even as the nearly naked woman bent away from the lethal danger that must have been obvious.

'His aim was central, towards the chest and the vital organs.

'For the second time in one minute the killer took a life.

He then fled back to a black vehicle and returned to 'safe ground' on another estate, the court heard.

Annie Efoko was killed as she investigated the sound of the gunshot that had killed her nephew, a trial at the Old Bailey heard

Ezeoke, of no fixed address, denied but was convicted of two counts of murder on a majority of 11-1.

Sally-Anne Russell, from the CPS, said: 'This was an execution of two family members within the space of about a minute. Obina Ezeoke's actions have devastated a family.

'Both victims were entirely innocent.

'Nobody saw exactly how these events unfolded but the prosecution case included evidence of Ezeoke's control of the car, CCTV footage of the car travelling to and from the scene, as well as a gun case discovered under Ezeoke's bed, gunshot residue evidence and proof of the ongoing feud between Ezeoke and other members of the family involved.

'Although Ezeoke denied any involvement in the killings, the jury accepted the prosecution case and convicted Ezeoke of both murders.

'I hope the family and friends of both Annie Besala Ekofo and Bervil Kalikala-Ekofo can be satisfied that justice has now been served.'
Russia is attempting to spread disinformation about potential coronavirus vaccines through anti-vaccination social media groups, the head of the UKs armed forces has warned.

General Sir Nick Carter, the chief of the defence staff, said authoritarian regimes, such as Russia and China, were using a strategy of political warfare to undermine cohesion and erode economic, political and social resilience in the western world.

In a speech for the Policy Exchange think-tank on Wednesday, Sir Nick highlighted the work of an Australian defence policy think-tank which has been tracking how some countries have sought to exploit the Covid-19 crisis.

The Covid crisis has highlighted how the use of propaganda, data misuse, disinformation, and strategic influence is presenting complex and rapidly evolving challenges for researchers, civil society, and of course for policymakers, he said, warning that autocratic rivals were utilising these techniques most effectively.

The Australian Strategic Policy Institute is tracking how a range of actors are manipulating the information environment to exploit the Covid-19 crisis for strategic gain - including pro-Russian vaccine politics whose disinformation narratives are designed to permeate anti-vaccination social media groups.

Sir Nick added that authoritarian regimes had adopted disinformation strategies to avoid physical conflicts with other nations.

Their goal is to win without going to war, to achieve their objectives by breaking our willpower, using attacks below the threshold that would prompt a warfighting response, he said.

His warning came as Russian media claimed the country had completed clinical trials for a second potential vaccine against Covid-19, developed by Siberia's Vector Institute.

It followed the controversial decision by Russian regulators to license the countrys Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine for domestic use in early August after small-scale human trials.

Health experts criticised the move to license the vaccine as it had not passed so-called phase 3 testing, recommended by the World Health Organisation, on a large number of people.

The vaccine is currently being tested on 40,000 people in Russia in a trial that launched on 26 August.

Additional reporting by Reuters
The Egyptian government has recently described the Golden Triangle as one of the richest economic areas in Egypt given its large mineral reserves.

The Golden Triangle lies in Abu Tartour on the outskirts of Qena governorate in Upper Egypt and is home to a mining area rich in phosphate reserves, estimated at almost 1 billion tons.

The Egyptian Cabinets Information and Decision Support Center, said in an infographic report published on its Facebook page Sept. 23 that the Golden Triangle area is rich in metallic and nonmetallic minerals.

According to the report, the Golden Triangle contains iron, copper, gold and phosphate minerals, amounting to 75% of all of Egypts mineral resources, and holding Egypts phosphate reserves, paving the way for numerous investment opportunities in building new factories in various fields.

The Golden Triangle is located on the coastal road connecting Egypts eastern borders to the north all the way to the southern border. The triangle area is jammed between the Red Sea governorate in the east and the Qena governorate in the west, with an 80-kilometer (50-mile) long seafront stretching between the borders of Safaga in the north and the borders of the city of al-Qusayr to the south and west. The triangles area stretches over 155 square kilometers (60 square miles) up to the borders of Qena.

The project is seen as a major national development project that serves the southern part of Egypt. The area also occupies a vital position as it overlooks the Red Sea, allowing access to the Gulf states, East Asia and Africa, as well as being connected to central and southern Africa via the ports of Aswan, both onshore and via the Nile River.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi had issued a presidential decree that was published in the official gazette in 2017, to establish the Golden Triangle Economic Zone.

Maj. Gen. Ahmed Abdullah, governor of the Red Sea governorate, told Al-Monitor that the infrastructure already exists in the area and is ready for investments and development projects to exploit the enormous potential and reserves in the area, namely minerals.

He explained that the investment projects would consist of creating mineral and agricultural industrial entities, achieving industrial and agricultural development, with the possibility of establishing cement, gypsum and phosphate fertilizers factories, glass factories in areas rich in white sand, as well as mineral and industrial complexes for the production of gold.

Abdullah said, The goal of the Golden Triangle [project] is to create a new economic zone for the Upper Egypt area that will set in motion the wheel of development in its different cities, taking advantage of the available labor force in Upper Egypt.

This is in addition to benefiting from the untapped urban communities, Abdullah added, noting that the Golden Triangle area will also include logistic areas, financial and business centers, commercial shopping centers, administrative departments, hotels, and recreational and open areas.

Maha Fahim, deputy chairman of the General Organization for Physical Planning  which is in charge of implementing the Golden Triangle project  said the development plan of the area is based on developing the Safaga Port on the western coast of the Red Sea as a global mining commercial and industrial port, the establishment of new piers, as well as developing the port to serve various purposes, and implementing projects for cargo loading and unloading services.

Fahim told Al-Monitor that the port will be developed into a commercial one that would provide all services and facilities, and would serve as a tourist port for yachts and major tourist boats, as well as a mining port.

Fahim added that the Hamrawein Port on the Red Sea coast, south of Hurghada, will also be developed and integrated with the Safaga Port and will be destined for the trade of mineral and stone materials. In addition, al-Qusayr city will be developed into a global ecotourism attraction, she added.

Hassan Bakhit, chairman of the Arab Mining Advisory Council, a government body affiliated with the Syndicate of Scientific Professions, told Al-Monitor that the Golden Triangle area is rich in mineral resources, including copper, gold, lead, tin heavy metals and trace elements, as well as raw material for construction such as limestone and peds (aggregates), the main source for the cement industry in Egypt.

Bakhit stressed that the idea of the megaproject is based on the development of the triangle area and its mineral riches, as well as developing tourist and industrial areas to benefit from the mineral reserves.

He said the development plans will contribute to industrial development for the people of Upper Egypt. This would be a good opportunity for the south and would provide the youth in the area with job opportunities, and would develop the Red Sea ports in such a way to optimize the export movement, Bakhit said.

There are existing limestone and peds quarries in the Golden Triangle. Some ports are operating too, including the Safaga Port, which will be [further] developed within the development plan for the entire area, he added. This national megaproject will create investment areas of a special nature for mining activities and related industries, and will be attractive to local and international investments.

Bakhit concluded, This would place Egypt on the international map for mining."
Stephen Maturen/Getty Brad Parscale

Donald Trump's former campaign manager said he would be leaving the president's re-election effort following what police described as a drunken incident over the weekend in which his wife said he was armed and had been suicidal  and responding officers observed her with bruising and scratches on her body.

I am stepping away from my company and any role in the campaign for the immediate future to focus on my family and get help dealing with the overwhelming stress," Brad Parscale, 44, said in a statement to Politico.

The man who helped captain Trump's surprise 2016 victory was demoted in mid-July as the president continued to trail rival Joe Biden in the polls and after he was reportedly angered over a poorly attended campaign rally in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in June.

Parscale became somewhat of a mini-political celebrity in recent years, frequently speaking at events before the president, taking selfies with supporters and even appearing prominently in a Trump campaign ad earlier this year alongside images of the president and Vice President Mike Pence.

But at home in Florida and reduced to a nominal senior adviser role within the campaign in July, Parscale "has been depressed and suicidal recently," police say his wife, Candice Parscale, told them Sunday afternoon.

"This has led him to consume alcohol a lot more frequently and make suicidal statements," police said in their reports, obtained by PEOPLE

Authorities were called to the Parscales' Fort Lauderdale residence after they say Candice told them her husband cocked a gun in front of her during an argument, causing her to flee the home and find help from a nearby Realtor who then called 911.

In a statement to Politico on Wednesday, Candice insisted what she said to police  that her husband "hits her," according to one incident report  was not accurate.

The statements I made on Sunday have been misconstrued, let it be clear my husband was not violent towards me that day or any day prior, she said in her statement, provided alongside her husband's.

Story continues

RELATED: Trump's Ex-Campaign Manager Hospitalized by Police After Wife Said He Was Armed and 'Ranting'

Bryan Woolston/Getty Brad Parscale in November 2019

When police arrived at the Parscales' home Sunday, multiple officers reported Candice had bruises on both her arms, while one officer noted she had bruising and scratches on her face. Authorities said they took photos of her as evidence.

"When I asked how she received the brusing [sic], [Candice] stated Brad Parscale hits her," one officer wrote in the police reports.

"When asked if he made these markings today, she claimed he did not. I continued to ask if Brad Parscale physically assaulted her in anyway today and she said no, but he did forcibly smack her phone out of her hand when she was attempting to call Brad Parscale's father," the officer wrote.

According to another report from an investigator at the scene, Brad was also seen with injuries on his body which he said "occurred several days ago none in relations to this incident and [police]."

The reports state that responding police felt "it was evident that" Candice "could not safely be left with [her husband] due to his potential for violence to her and/or himself."

The Parscales did not respond for additional comment on Thursday.

The Trump campaign did not dispute the Politico report but would not clearly state whether Brad is officially leaving the campaign after multiple requests to confirm his departure.

We hope for nothing but the best for Brad and his family," campaign spokesman Tim Murtaugh said in a statement.

Murtaugh had originally seemed to blame Trump's critics for the encounter with police, saying that "disgusting, personal attacks from Democrats and disgruntled RINOs [Republicans in name only] have gone too far."

RELATED: Trump Refuses to Condemn White Supremacy, Instead Telling Far-Right Group: 'Stand Back and Stand By'

FLPDPIO/YouTube Brad Parscale was detained by Fort Lauderdale police on Sunday

In a 911 call released by the Fort Lauderdale Police Department, Candice is heard telling the dispatcher that Brad has been under a "lot of stress right now" and that he had been "ranting and raving about something, I don't know."

Audio from that call shows the Realtor whom Candice flagged down seemingly noticing her bruises.

"Oh no, did he do that?" the woman says. "Oh my gosh, your arm, both your arms. Has he been hurting you?"

Responding officers reported that Brad smelled of alcohol when he was detained. Body camera footage reviewed by PEOPLE shows him holding a can while approaching an officer at the end of his driveway, before quickly getting tackled and handcuffed because authorities said he didn't respond to their commands.

Authorities said that he was not accused of a crime and that his wife was "not cooperative" with filing charges against him.

Police took the longtime Trump campaign operative to a local hospital under the Baker Act, a Florida law that allows police to detain someone to provide medical care if they're deemed dangerous to themselves or others.

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 or go to suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
Artist's depiction of the DAPPER satellite in orbit around the moon. Credit: NRAO

Scientists at CU Boulder have laid out a roadmap for a decade of scientific research at the moon.

Teams from the university will participate in four upcoming or proposed space missions that seek to use the moon as a unique laboratory for peering back to the dawn of the cosmoscollecting unprecedented data on an epoch in the life of the universe before the first stars formed.

The first of these efforts will deploy an instrument called Radio wave Observations at the Lunar Surface of the photoElectron Sheath (ROLSES). It's slated to land on the moon in just over a year. Another involves a proposed satellite known as the Dark Ages Polarimetry Pathfinder (DAPPER). It could be in orbit around the Moon by the decade's midway mark.

"It's a completely unexplored part of the early universe, which we call the Dark Ages," said Jack Burns, a professor in the Department of Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences at CU Boulder. "We have no data from this period and no prospect of getting any data using traditional telescopes like the Hubble Space Telescope."

Burns described the four missions during a virtual talk this month at the annual meeting of Lunar Exploration Advisory Group (LEAG), a scientific advisory body for NASA.

NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine, who also attended the meeting, shared in the excitement.

"One of the missions that has me really excited is DAPPER," he said in a talk. "We're going to be able to see the Dark Ages after the Big Bang and before Cosmic Dawn."

Two landers

For Burns, the next few years could wind up being the most exciting of his decades-long career.

The scientist, who is also vice president emeritus for Academic Affairs and Research for the CU System, explained that no visible light existed in the universe during the Dark Ages because of the lack of stars. That complete darkness, which lasted for roughly 180 million years, makes this time period impossible for astrophysicists to study today.

Or almost impossible: Burns and other researchers have predicted that scientists will be able to detect the faint radiation emitted by clouds of hydrogen gas that filled the universe during this period. It's that same radiation, visible today in radio waves traveling through space, that Burns and his colleagues hope to see when they go to the moon.

Artist's depiction of robots spooling out antennae on the moon's surface as part of the proposed FARSIDE mission. Credit: Jet Propulsion Laboratory

"We're probing that time period in the early universe when it all began," Burns said. "The very first stars are forming. The very first galaxies are forming, which will eventually lead to galaxies like the Milky Way."

ROLSES will get the party started in October 2021.That's when the instrument will land on the moon aboard the Nova-C Lunar Lander built by the company Intuitive Machines. ROLSES will begin scanning the sky for radio waves shortly after.

It will be followed in 2024 by a second lander mission called the Lunar Surface Electromagnetics Experiment (LuSEE), which will collect similar data but from the moon's farsideor the side of the moon that always faces away from Earth. This region of the lunar surface, Burns explained, is shielded from the interference produced by radio waves on Earth.

Both missions are part of NASA's Commercial Lunar Payload Services program. Robert MacDowall from the Goddard Spaceflight Center is leading the ROLSES mission, while Stuart Bale at the University of California, Berkeley will lead LuSEE. CU Boulder team members working with Burns include postdoctoral associate Keith Tauscher and graduate students Neil Bassett and Joshua Hibbard.

And beyond

Both landers will set the stage for DAPPER. If this satellite receives official approval from NASA, it will be about the size of a suitcase and will carry four wire antennae and one box-shaped "patch" antenna. The sensitive tools will help the spacecraft pick up the incredibly subtle traces of the early universe's hydrogen clouds.

Burns recently received another round of funding from NASA to continue to "mature" his team's designs for the mission. NASA's Ames Research Center, UC Berkeley and the National Radio Astronomy Observatory are partners on DAPPER.

"It's the closest we've come to finally being able to do this important science, so it's exciting," Burns said.

He's not content to stop there. The astrophysicist has also teamed up with scientists at the California Institute of Technology and NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory to develop one more mission. It's called the Farside Array for Radio Science Investigations of the Dark ages and Exoplanets (FARSIDE). The effort could send six-feet-long rolling robots to the moon, potentially by the end of the decade. There, they will lay out more than 28 miles of wires on the moon's surface in a spiral patternan unprecedented array that could detect cosmic signals from the surface of the moon itself.

During the virtual talk this month, NASA's Bridenstine noted that efforts like DAPPER show the potential for science on the moon. He said that astronauts living in a space station orbiting the moon, or even in habitats on the lunar surface, may one day help scientists like Burns to collect their data.

"Here you have human exploration and the scientific mission directly benefitting from each other," Bridenstine said.
Yesterday, at the initiative of the Russian side, President of the Republican Party of Armenia, third President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan received Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to Armenia Sergey Kopirkin.

During the meeting, the parties discussed the large-scale hostilities launched along the entire length of the Karabakh-Azerbaijan border and the escalation.

In this regard, President Sargsyan informed the Ambassador that the Republican Party of Armenia is freezing the domestic political agenda and talked about pan-national consolidation.

Sargsyan stressed that the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict doesnt have a military solution and that the Azerbaijani leaderships aggression against Nagorno-Karabakh and Armenia  with the overt support and through the interference of Turkeys military-political leadership  needs to be prevented by all possible means.

In his turn, Ambassador Kopirkin presented Russias stance and its efforts for a speedy settlement of the conflict at the national level and within the framework of the mandate of an OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs.
By Online Desk

BALRAMPUR: A 22-year-old Dalit woman died after allegedly being raped by two men in Balrampur district of Uttar Pradesh, a shocking incident that comes amid a nationwide outrage over the death of another gangrape victim from Hathras in the state.

Both the accused in the Balrampur incident have been arrested, police said.

Talking to reporters in Balrampur on Wednesday night, the victim's mother claimed that the rapists broke the legs and back of her daughter, a charge denied by the police.

"My daughter had gone to take admission in a college on Tuesday. On her way back, three-four persons abducted her, took her to their room, gave her an injection and raped her. They later sent her back on an e-rickshaw, which dumped her outside our house. They broke her legs and back, she could not stand or talk," the victim's mother said.

Quoting the victim's family members, Balrampur Superintendent of Police (SP) Dev Ranjan Verma said the woman, who worked in a private firm, returned home in a serious condition on Tuesday.

She looked dazed and had an intravascular cannula, medically known as Vigo and used for administering an injection or other fluids in the body, inserted in her hands.

ALSO READ | Centre should impose President's rule in UP, says Mayawati over Hathras, Balrampur rapes

She was rushed to a nearby hospital, but died on the way, the SP said.

When the matter was reported to the police by the hospital, her parents alleged that she was gangraped, he added.

Acting on her parent's complaint, the police identified the accused as Shahid and Sahil and arrested them, the SP said.

About the reports that the victim's legs and back were broken, he said, "It was not confirmed in the post-mortem. We contradict this news."

The victim was cremated on Wednesday after the post-mortem in the presence of her family members, the police said.

The district magistrate and the SP, along with the mahant of the Devipatan temple, Mithilesh Nath Yogi, visited the victim's house on Thursday morning, met the family members and condoled her death.

Meanwhile, the victim's mother has demanded a compensation of Rs 25 lakh and a government job for her son.

"My daughter wanted to become a lawyer but she was killed. The same fate should await the culprits. We want justice. My son should be given a government job and we should get at least Rs 25 lakh as compensation," she said.

ALSO READ | PIL in SC for CBI or SIT probe under judicial watch in Hathras gang-rape case

"The family members were assured that the accused will be given a strict punishment in accordance with law. A letter sanctioning a financial assistance of Rs 6,18,450 was handed over to them by the mahant. The amount will be sent to the victim's mother's bank account by the afternoon," a statement issued here said.

Reacting to the incident, Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav wrote on his Twitter handle on Wednesday night: "After Hathras, now a daughter was harassed and gang-raped in Balrampur. The victim died in serious condition. Condolences!" "The BJP government should commit no laxity in this case as was done in Hathras and arrest the accused immediately," he added with hashtags #Balrampur and #NoMoreBJP.

ALSO READ | Hathras gang-rape victim even denied dignity in death. Whats happening in UP?

The Balrampur incident comes at a time when there is a nationwide outrage over the Hathras gangrape where a 19-year-old Dalit woman was allegedly raped by four upper-caste men on September 14 and referred to the Safdarjung hospital in Delhi on Monday with spinal cord injuries, paralysis and cuts in her tongue.

She died at around 3 am on Tuesday.

14-year-old girl raped by neighbour

Meanwhile, a 14-year-old girl was allegedly raped by her neighbour at a village in Kakore area in Bulandshahr on Wednesday night, the police said.

Senior Superintendent of Police Santosh Kumar Singh said that based on the father's complaint, a case has been registered in this regard.

"The accused, who allegedly raped a minor, has been arrested," said Santosh Kumar Singh, Senior Superintendent of Police of Baghpat.

(With agency inputs)


Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban offered to opt out of the European Union's 750 billion euro ($875 billion) coronavirus fund to escape stronger scrutiny as the bloc prepares to tie aid to democratic criteria.

The proposal, if taken up, threatens to blow open a deal EU leaders sealed in July on a jointly-financed pandemic fund, with rule-of-law conditions that would also apply to regular EU budget payments.

Hungary, which is mired in its worst recession on record, stands to receive 6.25 billion euros in grants from the fund, which is aimed at helping EU states fight the economic fallout from the virus. All 27 members still need to ratify the arrangement.

"That's a substantial amount of money, especially at the time when every single euro is needed to rebuild the economy," said Piotr Matys, a London-based strategist at Rabobank.

Orban, whose government is one of two in the EU that's formally subject to a rule-of-law probe, initially threatened to block the fund unless rule-of-law conditionality was dropped. In a twist on Thursday before leaving for an EU leaders' summit in Brussels, the premier offered to opt out, proposing in a state news wire interview inter-governmental agreements -- rather than an EU institutional deal -- as a solution.

Hungary would continue to receive regular financing from the bloc under the seven-year budget from next year, Cabinet Minister Gergely Gulyas told a briefing in Budapest on Thursday. In the meantime, the country wouldn't finance nor benefit from the special virus fund, he said. That fund could "easily be decoupled" from the regular EU budget, he said.

"The solution then, since it's urgent to get aid to southern members, is that they do this without us," Gulyas said.

Under the deal struck between EU leaders during the summer, Hungary needs to sign off on allowing the European Commission to raise 750 billion euros in jointly-backed debt, whether it absorbs any recovery fund grants or not. Opting out of the so-called "own resources" provisions isn't possible without leaving the EU, according to an EU diplomat.

Creating a different vehicle that would raise the debt outside the EU budget, via an intergovernmental agreement, would likely be a lengthy process that would cause delays in the flow of much needed funds to the continent's battered economies.

Hungary has been a buzzword in the EU for suspected rule-of-law violations since Orban returned to power in 2010 and embarked on an unprecedented consolidation of power for a member state, including by extending political influence over the courts, media, culture and education. The EU has struggled to rein him in despite a multitude of infringement procedures and lawsuits.

A majority of EU states approved a watered-down, German-led version of an earlier European Commission proposal this week to financially sanction rule-of-law violators. Hungary and Poland objected that it went too far, whereas richer nations, including Sweden and the Netherlands, said it was too soft.

Orban's willingness to take a $7.4 billion hit suggests that even in a diluted form, Germany's proposal is viewed as a threat by those whom the mechanism may potentially target. It also shows the length the four-term Hungarian leader is willing to go to protect his regime from EU scrutiny. With Hungary's economy in its worst recession on record, a decision to reject EU aid may prompt a political backlash at home.

Whatever the outcome on the EU virus fund, a delay is "most likely unavoidable," with harmful consequences for Europe's economic recovery, German ambassador to the EU Michael Clauss said on Wednesday.
Australians flying home from Pakistan, the US, Britain, India and cruise ship passengers account for the bulk of NSW's COVID-19 cases imported from overseas, as community transmissions slow to a trickle.

Sydney's network of quarantine hotels could soon become the last remaining foothold for the virus in NSW.

Passengers arrive at Sydney International Airport from Los Angeles off a United Airlines flight that arrived just after 6am on Thursday. Credit:Kate Geraghty

Travellers in quarantine have been the only new COVID-19 cases reported in NSW since September 25.

On Thursday, NSW Health reported two new cases in returned travellers in hotel quarantine and a case of a man in south-western Sydney that the ministry believes is an old case only just detected.
New Delhi, Oct 1 : A Noida Film City-based digital channel head has been arrested by the Delhi police. The accused in connivance with his conduits and a team of small-time photographers and aspiring job seekers would identify prospective targets on the basis of their lavish lifestyle and swanky cars, do sting operations on them and then demand money to settle the matter.

The accused A K Chowdhary, who ran the digital channel 'Jansatya', has several other cases registered against him, including that of motor vehicle theft, the police said on Thursday.

The matter came to light when an advocate who is a resident of New Delhi's Greater Kailash-1 submitted a complaint at the Greater Kailash police station, alleging some persons on behalf of 'Jansatya' having its office in Film City, Noida had conducted a sting operation on him and were demanding Rs five crore or else they would telecast the sting operation.

A police team was formed immediately and investigations initiated.

A case u/s 384/34 IPC was registered at the Greater Kailash police station. Afsar Ali alias A K Chaudhry, a resident of Mahagun Moderne in Sector-78, Noida, aged 37, who was running a digital channel Jansatya and news office-cum-studio Global News Media Pvt. Ltd at Film city, Noida was arrested in the case after due investigation.

"After carefully picking wealthy targets, they would pose as buyers of big farmhouse land and conduct sting operations on one pretext or another and then hope that the victims will settle minor disputes and legal hassles. In the entire process which could continue for months, videos were made and the 'accused' was called for his version," said Atul Thakur, DCP South Delhi.

Based upon the victim's potential, a demand for money was made and a process of intimidation started.

The Delhi police are now verifying if there were other such victims against whom the same modus operandi was used and money extorted.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-02 05:21:54|Editor: huaxia

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CAIRO, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Egypt and Hungary signed on Thursday a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on energy cooperation, particularly in the field of oil and gas.

Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry and Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Peter Szijjarto held a press conference in Cairo following the signing of the MOU, during which they praised the distinguished relations between the two countries.

"We tackled our overall bilateral relations politically, economically and culturally," the top Egyptian diplomat told reporters, adding that he exchanged views with his visiting Hungarian counterpart on regional issues of mutual concern.

Shoukry added that they also addressed Egypt's relations with the European Union, praising Hungary's understanding of the challenges facing Egypt and its support for Egypt's economic reform.

"We also discussed the chances for increasing Hungarian investments in Egypt," Shoukry continued, noting that they tackled the implementation of the huge project to upgrade Egypt's railways through a Hungarian-Russian consortium that will provide Egypt with passenger train cars.

In September 2018, Egypt signed a deal worth 1.16 billion euros (about 1.3 billion U.S. dollars) with the Russian-Hungarian rail consortium to import 1,300 passenger cars for the Egyptian railway authority.

For his part, Szijjarto urged the EU to provide more support to Egypt, while stressing that Europe's security begins in North Africa.

The Hungarian minister lauded Egypt's success in ending illegal immigration through its Mediterranean seashores.

Szijjarto also highlighted the significance of the diplomatic cooperation between Hungary and Egypt, referring to a deal on diplomatic studies signed on Thursday between the two sides. Enditem
Judge Amy Coney Barrett, President Trumps nominee to Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburgs seat on the Supreme Court, signed a newspaper ad in 2006 that supported overturning Roe v. Wade, the landmark decision establishing the right to abortion.

The ad, which ran across two pages in The South Bend Tribune and was first reported by The Guardian on Thursday, quoted Justice Byron Whites dissent in Roe v. Wade, and called the decision an exercise of raw judicial power and urged overturning its barbaric legacy.

Judge Barretts opposition to Roe is in line with a pledge by President Trump to appoint justices to the court who would overturn the ruling. On Tuesday, during his first debate with Joseph R. Biden Jr., Mr. Trump sought to walk back that promise, disputing that abortion was on the ballot and telling Mr. Biden of Judge Barrett, you dont know her view on Roe v. Wade. You dont know her view.

But with news on Thursday that Judge Barrett had signed the open letter, which was also signed by her husband, Jesse Barrett, a fellow lawyer and former federal prosecutor, the nominees view on the ruling became clear. Though the judges participation in other groups had indicated her personal opposition to abortion, her stance on the court decision specifically had not been widely known.
Before graduating with a double masters in information and museum studies from the University of Toronto in June, Elizabeth Cytko was gearing up to apply to jobs at libraries and institutions across the country.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 1/10/2020 (478 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Before graduating with a double masters in information and museum studies from the University of Toronto in June, Elizabeth Cytko was gearing up to apply to jobs at libraries and institutions across the country.

The plan was to launch her career and start working down her debts.

Before graduating with a double masters in information and museum studies from the University of Toronto in June, Elizabeth Cytko, shown in a handout photo, was gearing up to apply to jobs at libraries and institutions across the country.The plan was to launch her career and start working down her debts. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Elizabeth Cytko MANDATORY CREDIT

My wild daydream was to have them paid off in three years," Cytko said.

I assumed I would have had full-time work by now, but that hasnt quite happened with COVID-19."

The graduate is living at home in Edmonton and taking a free online course as she wrestles with how to handle her federal student loans.

"I'm just living in limbo at the moment."

She's not alone. Thousands of recent graduates are facing the end of the six-month freeze Ottawa imposed on repayments and interest for Canada Student Loans in response to the coronavirus outbreak. Oct. 1 is the first day monthly payments resume.

Graduates like Cytko have a range of options, from requesting to postpone payments to tackling them on a budget.

Those with an income below $25,000 per year are eligible for continued deferrals until they hit that threshold. They can apply through the Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP), which also allows borrowers to apply for a reduced payment.

"Depending on your income, you may not be required to make payments that exceed your income by 20 per cent, or any payment at all," the program website states.

However, just because you're able to kick the debt can down the road doesn't mean you should.

"Attack that debt as best you can," said Keith Emery, co-CEO of Credit Canada, a not-for-profit credit counselling service.

"If youre getting a debt deferral, as with the RAP, thats not a debt writeoff, thats just putting it on pause to a later date... sort of like a giant dont-pay-a-cent event."

Graduates should steer away from the vicious cycle of using borrowed money  especially if it's higher interest  to pay down other loans, while sticking to their payment due dates, Emery said.

"It is important to maintain those payments because you dont want it to impact your credit score and credit report, which are important to build as youre getting your financial start," Emery noted.

Payment delinquency, including with the National Student Loans Service Centre, will eventually come across the desks of all three major credit bureaus, he added.

Young people have been among the hardest hit financially by the pandemic. Employment of Canadians aged 15 to 24 was 15.3 per cent below pre-pandemic levels in August, by far the largest gap among age groups, according to Statistics Canada.

More than one in three postsecondary students had a work placement cancelled or delayed as a result of the outbreak, according to a StatCan survey of more than 100,000 in April.

The time-tested method of living on a budget can make for quicker debt repayment.

If you dont have a car, if youre living at home... I would say kudos to you. Dont let anybody tell you what you should be doing at this stage in life financially. All that matters is what works for you," Emery said.

"Maybe youre not going out to eat as much... Anything that allows you to weather this storm without taking on debt and while maintaining your student loan payments is a positive."

The federal government tends to be more flexible with repayment plans than most private lenders, said Doug Hoyes of Hoyes Michalos, an Ontario-based debt-relief firm.

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A solid sense of your own financial situation provides the key to charting a path out of student debt, he said.

"You want to take stock of where youre at. Youre supposed to be paying $400 a month, say. Can you actually afford that?"

Hoyes recommends taking the initiative and giving the government a call.

"Youre allowed to pick up the phone and call the lender and make a plan: 'I cant afford to give you $400, but I can afford to give you $100 a month for the next six months.'

Youre the boss. You want to take charge. You dont want to hide from it," he said. "If its a federal student loan, they know where you are. So hiding is not a good strategy."

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 1, 2020.
New England fall foliage lovers are in for a treat later this week.

Most areas of Maine will see peak, and slightly beyond peak, fall foliage conditions this weekend, the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) said.

In its weekly fall foliage report, DACF noted that northern, western and central Maine are seeing peak conditions, while the coastal and southern regions of the state are displaying only moderate, less than 50%, color changes.

Northern Maine usually sees peak fall foliage conditions between the last week of September and the first week of October. The rest of the states color progression typically starts in early to mid October, according to DACF.

The agency attributed the early onset of color changes to widespread frost and the lack of rain this summer. Last week, a new area of extreme drought was reported in southern parts of Maine.

In Massachusetts, several experts have predicted peak fall foliage will arrive in early October.

Residents in the commonwealth wishing to travel to Maine are in luck, as Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker has declared Maine a low-risk state amid the COVID-19 public health crisis.

Those living in Massachusetts have been urged to limit out-of-state travel only to states designated as lower-risk areas.

Color is still emerging daily in portions of southern and coastal regions of Maine beyond this week and into October. But remember, it has been the shorter sunny days, followed by the cool nights of autumn that brought about the brilliant colors being displayed this week, said Gale Ross, DACFs fall foliage coordinator. "Its Mother Natures way of protecting and putting her trees to bed for the long winter months ahead.

A couple takes in the view from the ocean lookout ledges of Mount Megunticook at Camden Hills State Park in Camden, Maine. (Robert F. Bukaty/AP)

Fall foliage fans can take in high-up sights of the yellow, orange and red leaves from Sunday Rivers Chondola scenic lift rides or from Camden Snow Bowls chairlift rides, DACF noted.

Adventure seekers can whitewater raft on the Kennebec River, which DACF said is a great way to experience fall foliage from the water.

Bicyclists can also ride on the Bethel to Evans Notch route. The 27-mile ride cuts through western Maine and eastern New Hampshire, and Bicycle magazine named it one of the best bike rides in the country for looking at the fall foliage.

For a more relaxed fall foliage viewing experience, tree lovers can go to the fairytale-like trail system of Vaughan Woods in Hallowell or to the states Kennebec Valley for a leaf-peeping tour, according to DACF.

Begin in Solon and wind your way to the Canadian border along the 78-mile Old Canada Road Scenic Byway, the agency recommended. Pack a picnic for a stop at Robbins Hill for panoramic views of the valley, and dont miss the Moxie Falls Scenic Area in The Forks, where you have the chance to enjoy the changing leaves on foot with a 2-mile hike to the 92-foot vertical drop of the falls.

Maine Craft Weekend, a yearly statewide tour, will also take place on Oct. 3 and 4, with safety measures in place due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Those interested in seeing more of Maines wide array of autumnal sites can visit the states official foliage website.

Fall foliage colors appear at the beginning of their peak in Bucksport, Maine. (Pat Wellenbach/AP)

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A heiress with money to spare admits she doesn't know what benefits are as she heads to meet a family-of-seven who struggle to finish the month.

Celine, a 24-year-old drama student from Norway living in London, admits she has no idea what it's like to scrape by as she prepares to spent a few days away with Mike Jarman, his wife Natalie and their five children in Wales for 5Star's Rich Kids, Skint Holiday, which airs tonight at 9pm.

The Manchester family live off just 1,000 some months, and self-employed Mike and nurse Natalie have to meticulously save up every penny to afford the campervan they rent out for their family holiday.

However, when 'privileged' Celine shows up at the campsite in a Balenciaga jumper, Mike is shocked to learn what she's wearing costs the same price as his holiday for eight people.

Meanwhile, Celine gets a reality check after staying with the Jarmans and finding out how tight their budget really is.

Father-of-five Mike Jarman and his wife Natalie, from Manchester, welcome Finnish-Norwegian heiress Celine, 24, onto their family getaway on 5Star's Rich Kids, Skint Holiday, airing tonight at 9pm.

Celine doesn't know what to expect from her holiday with the Jarmans before she heads to meet them.

'I don't know what it's like to live in the UK without money, like on government money,' she says in the programme, admitting she doesn't know what 'benefits' are.

'I really hate camping,' she adds. 'I hate sitting in tents and caravan parks.'

And father-of-five Mike is not too impressed with his guest when she turns up in an expensive outift.

'She's rocked up in a Balenciaga jumper, which, I don't know, I'd price at two, three, 400 quid,' Mike tells the camera.

Mike is dumbfounded to hear Celine's cost just about what his family has been saving to afford their holiday. Pictured: Celine with the Jarman family

'It's about what that camper van cost us just here, so to put that into perspective her jumper cost what our holiday cost.'

Later, when he hears that Celine's designer glasses cost 500, Mike once again can barely hide his shock.

'What?' he asks loudly, before adding: A fiver at the garage save, it does the same, love.'

Meanwhile, Celine, who is used to low-key quiet time by the beach and hates camping, is equally struggling to adapt to the Jarmans' idea of a holiday.

'It feels so surreal because I'm here in my heels and I have ants crawling up my legs and I'm gonna put up a tent, I've never put up a tent before,' she tells the camera.

The heiress is more used to flying off to the South of France, Spain or Greece than camp sites with communal showers.

Avocado-loving Celine has to make due with bacon butties and barbecue while staying with the Jarmans

'I am definitely privileged because I always had money,' she admits.

'if I ever run out, I can just call my parents and I get more money,' she adds.

The drama students loves to go shopping and splashes on designer items, such as designer handbags from Saint Laurent and Chanel and Balenciaga t-shirts costing 350.

A quick look at the camping site's communal shower leave her feeling disgusted.

The heiress learns the value of a tight-knit family and admits she has not seen her father in eight months

'It actually looks kinda disgusting,' she says, but adds: 'It's gonna be fine because I have no choice.'

While she is disgruntled when Mike instructs her to pitch her own tent, Celine tries her best.

'Think she's probably used to have people running around after her,' Mike tells the camera. 'She's gonna have to muck in and she's gonna have to get involved, otherwise I'm afraid she's gonna be told.'

But in spite of never having put up her tent before and struggling to grasp with the fact the Jarman feed and amuse themselves on just 30 a day while on holiday, the rich kids does her best to get to know them.

After a day spent at the nearby beach and in the arcades, the family-of-seven and the heiress open up to each other over dinner.

Mike admits that sometimes the family live on 1,000 a months, which is not enough money, and explains that 'doing lavish things is a bit of a no-no.'

At the end of her stay at the Welsh campsite, Celine says she's learned to be more carefully with her money

This revelation is a big shock for the heiress, who later tells the camera 1,000 is what she can spend on a bag.

She compliments the family on their 'tight-knit' relationship, and admits she has not seen her father in eight months.

The penny drops for Mike, who admits he feels quite 'sad' for Celine, who must feel lonely.

After spending more time with the Jarmans, the drama student is challenged to feed the eight of them with just 20 worth of takeaway.

After a well-calculated trip to the local chippy, Celine manages to buy a feast for the last evening of the holiday.

And this dinner-on-a-budget leaves Celine with some food for thought as well.

'The family has made me realise you don't need money to have fun, and that as long as you actually care for each other and have a good time as a family, that's all you need,' she says.

In order to thank the Jarmans for their hospitality, Celine treats them to a boat trip , and she is surprised by how picturesque the Welsh landscape actually is.

When comes time to say goodbye, it is with a heavy heart that the 24-year-old student packs her suitcase.

But she leaves the family with some priceless lessons.

'The main thing I've learned was to be a bit more careful with my money,' she says.

Rich Kids, Skint Holidays airs tonight at 9pm on 5Star.
A Florida man has had his dog taken away from him after he was caught on camera punching the cowering animal because it has ran away from the house.

The unidentified man was seen at Boynton Beach in video posted to Facebook on Sunday.

He walks away from the camera, with Adi, his Labrador-Pitbull mix, on a lead.

Aldi had escaped from their home and ran off, and the man, angered by the dog running away, drove up in his car, grabbed Adi, and marched the animal back towards his car.

With his fist clenched, the man hit Adi, a Labrador - Pitbull mix, as she huddled on the ground

The dog owner slapped the terrified animal in the face, having punched it in the head

The man crouched down to attack Adi, who cowered on the ground

Enraged, he then stops, and begins punching the cowering animal with a closed fist, and slapping Adi in the face.

Stacey Rybak, who shot the video on her phone, called 911 to report the incident.

'To see a grown man punch a poor helpless dog  I was in shock,' she said.

She said the man had hit the dog with far more violence when he first found her, and she was shocked to catch him on camera hitting the animal a second time, walking away.

'What I got on video was not near as bad as the first time I wasn't able to record,' she said.

Adi was hit repeatedly on the head by the furious owner

Adi then had to be dragged by her owner to get back into the car and go home

Boynton Beach Police are investigating and took Adi to a veterinarian to be checked.

They are keeping her at Palm Beach County Animal Care and Control until the investigation is completed.

An animal abuse investigator is going to the owner's home for a welfare check on the other animals.

The man, tracked down by WPBF 25 News, said he regretted his actions.

'I understand what I did was not right and I regret it and it's a life lesson and the dog is not injured, the dog loves me to death and I love her to death, so it's a situation I have to deal with,' he said.

'There's no question I was wrong for what I did, but they didn't understand the circumstances.

'I have another dog and a parrot.

'I know Adi wants to come home and be with us and my wife.'
Somrita Ghosh By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Anxiety, pain, anger and fighting for dignity - the past 48 hours have been topsy turvy for the family of the 19-year-old rape victim from Boolgarhi village in Hathras district of Uttar Pradesh.

"Abhi jo hum chahte hai ki jitne bhi ye bade bade police officers hai inko suspend karay pehle number pe toh...kyunki inhone apne marzi se le jaake zabardasti body ko jala diya (All that we want at the moment is that the top police officials should be suspended from their duties because it is them who cremated the body of our sister on their own will and forcefully)," said Sanjeev, cousin brother of the victim.

The girl, a Dalit by caste, who was raped by four men in her village on September 14 was admitted at Aligarh Muslim University's Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and Hospital after a week.

According to the JNMC hospital administration, the victim's health condition was fragile when admitted.

Her legs were paralysed with severe spinal cord injury, her neck damaged as the accused had dragged her wrapping her dupatta to a field near which she had been gathering cattle fodder.

She also has a deep cut on her tongue which she had bitten when strangulated.

The family had accused that the cops had burnt the body for cremation against their will.

"We now have a constant fear of our lives, we are being threatened by them (family of the accused) that once the matter is settled and no further protests are held, they will seek revenge on us, may physically hurt us... wo log Thakur hai, pura mamla jaati ke upar hi hai (They are Thakurs, upper caste....the whole matter is revolved around caste here)," he claimed.

Sanjeev said that the father of the victim was also forcefully taken away by the UP police late Wednesday evening for a meeting with the state Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

"Police kya protection degi aage ka, wo to khud aake maar rahe hai (what protection will the police provide to us in future, they are beating us up)," added the brother.

The Hathras district administration on Tuesday announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh to the family which was announced by the district magistrate, shortly after she died in Delhi.

"What will we do with the cash money or house, our lives are going to change now...all that my sister's parents want is to hang the culprits who raped her...but honestly, we don't have much hope from anyone. Rather, we are going to face more threats to live," the brother noted.
Join ICMA-RC During National Retirement Security Month! Bring your future into focus by visiting www.RetirementMonth.org for tips, videos, and other resources.

Join ICMA-RC During National Retirement Security Month! Bring your future into focus by visiting www.RetirementMonth.org for tips, videos, and other resources.

Washington, D.C., Oct. 01, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- October has been designated as National Retirement Security Month, expanding on the program that had previously been limited to a single week. This national effort encourages employees across the nation to think about ways to save for a successful financial future and achieve their retirement savings goals. As part of ICMA-RCs support of National Retirement Security Month (NRSM), the company will once again offer engaging educational resources to help public sector employees plan for retirement.

This years campaign theme, Bring Your Future into Focus, emphasizes the need for participants to focus on what they need to do today to help plan for tomorrow, such as keeping a long-term perspective and growing their savings. Themes that will be explored include the following:

Market volatility

Cybersecurity

Savings strategies

Financial planning

Debt management

We are thrilled that National Retirement Security Week has been extended to a full month, as it gives us a greater opportunity to engage our clients in a more dynamic way over a longer period of time, said Orlando Cruz, Senior Vice President of ICMA-RC. Providing employees and plans sponsors with multiple ways to interact with us, including virtual and in-person meetings, as well as through videos, webinars, and interactive calculators, helps make the thought of planning for retirement a little less overwhelming.

ICMA-RC encourages plan sponsors and participants to visit www.retirementmonth.org to view its NRSM tips, videos and other resources to help plan for a successful retirement.

About ICMA-RC

Founded in 1972, ICMA-RC is a non-profit, independent financial services corporation with approximately $60 billion in assets under management and administration (as of June 30, 2020), focused on providing retirement plans and related services for over 1.5 million public participant accounts. ICMA-RCs mission is to help those who serve their communities work towards achieving their retirement savings goals. For more information, visit www.icmarc.org, download ICMA-RCs mobile app from the App Store and Google PlayTM or follow ICMA-RC on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

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CONTACT: Aprile Pritchet ICMA-RC 202-962-8067 apritchet@icmarc.org




01.10.2020 LISTEN

Should the Akufo-Addos government numerous and well-received social intervention policies and programmes go according to schedule, the ever widening social mobility gap will most likely be reduced to the barest minimum.

Take, for instance, by introducing the Free SHS, Akufo-Addo is graciously working towards the reduction of the canker of poverty.

Education, in theory, drives the development of a nation, thus the logical approach to improving accessibility and quality is not through political rhetoric and unfulfilled promises, but through well-thought through policies such as the Akufo-Addos Free SHS.

So given the enormous benefits therein education, it is, indeed, prudent and somewhat forward-thinking for Akufo-Addos government to seek to bridge the ever widening social inequalities chasm through rational distribution of national resources in the form of Free SHS.

More so, the fact that the erstwhile ambivalent NDC government needlessly left behind a huge debt stock amid harsh socio-economic standards of living , it is, indeed, commendable for Akufo-Addos government to afford to implement the seemingly admirable, albeit costly social intervention such as Free SHS.

If we stroll down memory lane, one unique campaign message that dominated the 2008, 2012 and 2016 general elections was the poverty alleviation Free SHS.

While candidate Akufo-Addo and his NPP were promising to implement Free SHS if voted into power, candidate Mahama and his NDC were all over the place campaigning vigorously against the policy.

Regrettably, however, Ghanaians mistakenly bought into NDCs message in two consecutive elections (2008 and 2012) and turned down the seemingly advantageous Free SHS offer.

But lo and behold, on 7th December 2016, the good people of Ghana saw the light and gave the Free SHS promiser (Akufo-Addo) a massive endorsement.

To his credit though, within a year into his four year mandate, President Akufo-Addo estimably implemented the Free SHS to the delight of Ghanaian parents and their children.

Sadly, however, no less a person than Ex-President Mahama has conveniently and persistently been criticising Akufo-Addo for implementing the Free SHS policy, allegedly, at the expense of other developmental projects (see: Free SHS crippling other sectors-Mahama, classfmonline.com/ghanaweb.com, 24/02/2018).

Former President Mahama was quoted to have lamented during one of the NDCs unity health walks: The problem this government is facing and it is in their own interest, is that, Free Senior High School is absorbing all the fiscal space they have and so almost every money you have, you are having to put it into Free Senior High School. So you cant pay District Assemblies Common Fund, you cant pay NHIS (National Health Insurance Scheme), you cant pay GET Fund (Ghana Education Trust Fund), you cant pay other salaries and things because all your money is going into Free Senior High School.

Rightly so, observers can draw and adverse inference from the preceding criticisms that Mahama does not fancy the Free SHS, and therefore he is not ready to spend huge amount of money to run the policy.

It is, therefore, not the least surprising that Mahama and the minority NDC operatives prefer progressively free (whatever that means) to NPPs comprehensively free.

In fact, unless I come across as the worst performer in mathematics, I cannot fathom how and why the NDCs Progressively Free SHS of GH38 per student is better than the NPPs GH1844.27 per student a year.

Dearest reader, isnt it quite disturbing that after campaigning and voting against the poverty alleviation Free SHS during the 2016 election, albeit unsuccessful, the NDC operatives now have the brashness to protest vehemently against the Free SHS implementation?

But in spite of the initial exigencies, the Free SHS has sufficed. The endless attacks and unfair criticisms did not and could not bring the scheme down.

Let us be honest, if for nothing at all, the Free SHS policy will bring enormous benefits to the students, parents and the nation as a whole.

Of course, the universal free education has been introduced in a number of jurisdictions across our own continent, Africa.

It is, therefore, heart-warming to state that, in spite of the initial challenges, the policy has sufficed in those jurisdictions. So, why not in Ghana?

In 2007, Uganda became the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to introduce free universal secondary education. Under the secondary scheme, students who get specific grades in each of the four primary school-leaving exams study free in public schools and participating in private schools.

The government of Kenya, in 2002, declared a universal free primary school and followed it up with a free secondary schooling education programme in 2008.

In Namibia, a former South African colony under apartheid, primary education was declared free in 2012, while secondary education became free from 2016.

The poverty alleviation Free SHS policy, in fact, reinforces the United Nations vision on human development and the right to development.

We should, therefore, not lose sight of the fact that per the right to development, development is shifting from the conventional approach to human rights approach, whereby the focus is on equity and social justice (Mansell and Scot 1994).

It was against that background that the international community agreed to work in valence to assist the underdeveloped nations in line with the provisions of the UN Declaration on the Right to Development.

So far there have been concerted efforts by the international community to concretise the Right to Development by first implementing the eight Millennium Development Goals with a view to developing a global partnership for development (Alston 2005).

Apparently, the MDGS came to an end at the end of 2015 and replaced with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Under the Sustainable Development Goals, every country would be obliged to meet the targets set therein (UN 2015).

Thus, as the international community heads toward implementing and monitoring the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals agenda, the human development approach remains useful to articulating the objectives of development and improving peoples well-being by ensuring an equitable, sustainable and stable world.

In hindsight, human development  or the human development approach- is about expanding the richness of human life. It is an approach that is focused on people and their opportunities and choices.

Human development, in reality, focuses on improving the lives of people rather than assuming that economic growth will lead, automatically, to greater wellbeing for all.

In other words, human development is about giving people more freedom to live lives they value. In effect, this implies developing peoples abilities and giving them a chance to improve upon their lives.

Take, for example, educating a large number of children would build their skills, but it is of little, or no use if they are denied access to jobs, or do not have the right skills for the local labour market.

Basically, human development is about more choices. It is about providing people with opportunities.

The human development approach, developed by the economist Mahbub Ul Haq, is encapsulated in the Nobel laureate Amartya Sens work on human capabilities, often framed in terms of whether people are able to be and do desirable things in life. Examples include-Beings: well-fed, sheltered, healthy; Doings: work, education, voting, participating in community life (HDR 2015).

Since 1990, 2 billion people have been lifted out of low human development, extreme income poverty has been reduced by more than a billion. Every region of the world has seen Human Development Index (HDI) gains (HDR 2015).

In a grand scheme of things, the process of development  human development  in the form of Akufo-Addos free SHS should at least create an environment for people, individually and collectively, to develop to their full potential and to have a reasonable chance of leading productive and creative lives.

In ending, some of us, as a matter of excellence, will always choose Akufo-Addos Comprehensively Free SHS over Mahamas Progressively Free SHS.

K. Badu, UK.

[email protected]
Sweeping tax changes in the federal budget next week will make it easier for small businesses to give benefits to their staff including free parking, mobile phones and laptops.

About 20,000 companies employing 1.7million Australians will benefit from ten tax changes as the government tries to drag the economy out of the first recession since 1991.

From April 2021 businesses that make between $10million and $50million will not have to a pay an extra tax when they give their staff parking and more than one portable electronic device.

Sweeping tax changes in the federal budget next week will make it easier for small businesses to give benefits to their staff including free parking, mobile phones and laptops (stock image)

About 20,000 companies employing 1.7million Australians will benefit from ten tax changes as the government tries to drag the economy out of the first recession since 1990 (stock image)

Under current fringe benefits tax rules, companies have to pay 47 per cent of the value of these benefits to the federal government.

The change will save businesses thousands of dollars and will help them attract and retain staff.

In another major change, all Australian companies will be exempt from paying fringe benefits tax when they pay for workers to train for a different role.

The government hopes this will encourage employers to re-train their staff to fill different positions instead of making them redundant.

What is fringe benefits tax? Fringe benefits tax (FBT) was introduced in 1986. It requires companies to pay tax on the value of certain benefits they give to employees such as free parking. The government says FBT plays an important role in maintaining the fairness and integrity of Australia's taxation system by placing employees with access to fringe benefits on a more even footing with employees whose remuneration consists entirely of salary or wages. In 2018-19, 43,288 businesses paid FBT, generating $3.8 billion in revenue, according to ATO data. Advertisement

Treasurer Josh Frydenber said: 'Making it easier for businesses to upskill or reskill their workforce will help people to keep their job or to find a new job as we recover from Covid-19.'

The government is also considering allowing Aussies to deduct education and training expenses they incur themselves where they are not related to their current employment - but no decision has been made yet.

Around eight per cent of Australians changed jobs in the past year, with half of these changing industries and around a third of these changing occupation.

Other concessions to small businesses will include allowing them to immediately deduct certain start-up expenses and prepaid expenditure; simplify their pay as you go tax installments; and settle excise duty once a month instead of weekly.

Furthermore, the amendment period for income tax assessments will be reduced from four years to two years starting from 1 July, 2021.

This means the tax office can only demand more tax within two years if officials feel a company has accidentally made a mistake on their tax return.

The changes are estimated to cost the budget $105million over the next three years.

They are part of the government's bid to slash red tape and reduce tax to help get Australians back to work after coronavirus lockdowns destroyed one million jobs.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has said next week's budget is the most important since the Second World War and will aim to 'cushion the blow of the pandemic recession, to recover what's been lost - the jobs, the livelihoods, the hours, the incomes, the customers, the clients - and to take new ground by rebuilding our economy for the future.'

Mr Frydenberg said: 'The Morrison Government is expanding much needed tax relief to small businesses as part of our economic recovery plan.

'We know that the pathway to recovery is not through higher taxes but through a more competitive and efficient tax system that supports jobs and promotes investment.

'Enabling small businesses to keep more of what they earn means they can keep operating, pay their bills and retain or hire more staff.

'Australia's more than three million small and medium businesses are the engine room of our economy, which is why reducing their tax burden is critical in ensuring they not only survive the crisis, but continue to invest, grow and create jobs as the economy recovers.'

The huge tax changes coming to small businesses in 2020 budget Businesses with an aggregated annual turnover between $10million and $50million will have access to up to ten small business tax concessions. The changes are estimated to support about 20,000 businesses and 1.7million employees. Immediate deduction for certain start-up expenses From 1 July 2020, eligible businesses can immediately deduct a range of professional expenses and Australian government agency payments associated with starting a new business, such as professional, legal and accounting advice. Currently, these costs are usually deducted over a five year period. Immediate deduction for certain prepaid expenditure From 1 July 2020, eligible businesses can immediately deduct certain prepaid expenditure where the payment covers a period of 12 months or less that ends in the next income year. Currently, business expenditure that relates to multiple income years is generally not immediately deductible. Fringe benefits tax (FBT): small business car parking exemption From 1 April 2021, eligible businesses would be exempt from FBT on car parking benefits provided to employees if the parking is not provided in a commercial car park. FBT: multiple work-related portable electronic devices exemption From 1 April 2021, eligible businesses would be exempt from FBT on multiple work-related portable electronic devices provided to employees  even if the devices have substantially identical functions. Simplified trading stock rules From 1 July 2021, eligible businesses can choose to use a simplified trading stock regime. Under this regime, eligible businesses may choose not to conduct a stocktake (and account for changes in the value of trading stock) for an income year, if the difference between the opening value of stock on hand and a reasonable estimate of stock on hand at the end of the year does not exceed $5,000. Pay as you go (PAYG) instalments based on GDP-adjusted notional tax From 1 July 2021, eligible businesses would have the option to have their PAYG instalments calculated for them by the ATO (based on previously reported information). Currently, they are required to calculate their actual income for the period, as the basis for their PAYG instalment calculation. Small business excise concession From 1 July 2021, eligible businesses would be able to apply to defer settlement of excise duty to a monthly reporting cycle, instead of the current weekly reporting cycle. This only applies to eligible goods under the current small business entity concession. Small business excise-equivalent customs duty concession From 1 July 2021, eligible businesses would be able to apply to defer settlement of excise-equivalent customs duty from a weekly to monthly reporting cycle. This only applies to eligible goods under the current small business entity concession. Two-year amendment period From 1 July 2021 eligible businesses (excluding entities with significant international tax dealings or particularly complex affairs) will have a two year amendment period apply to income tax assessments for income years. The current exceptions, including for fraud or evasion, would continue to apply. Businesses can lodge an amendment application before the time limit and the ATO may extend the time limit to give effect to the application. Currently, they are subject to a four-year amendment period. Simplified accounting methods From 1 July 2021, the Commissioner of Taxation's power to create a simplified accounting method determination for eligible businesses for GST purposes will be expanded to apply to businesses below the $50 million aggregated annual turnover threshold. Remove fringe benefits tax for retraining From 2 October 2020 the government will remove the 47 per cent fringe benefits tax on retraining provided by employers to redundant, or soon to be redundant, employees. This will encourage employers to help workers transition to new employment opportunities within or outside their business. Advertisement

Assistant Treasurer Micahel Sukkar added: 'Australia's small business owners have shown remarkable resolve and persistence during the Covid-19 pandemic.

'The Morrison Government is committed to do all we can to help Australia's small business bounce back stronger on the other side of the pandemic.

'Our plan to provide $105million in targeted tax relief to attract and retain workers, as well as reduce red tape, will support around 20,000 Australian small businesses and is a key part of our economic recovery plan.'

Previous support from small businesses has included JobKeeper, extending the Instant Asset Write Off, providing a Cash Flow Boost of up to $100,000 for employing small businesses, and boosting access to capital through the Covid-19 SME loan Guarantee Scheme.

The tax changes coming to devices and parking: A case study This case study is about a fictional cleaning business that provides its workers free parking, phone and lap top. Cockatoo Cleaning Co provides office cleaning services to other businesses. Its cleaners first go to Cockatoo Cockatoo Cleaning Co's warehouse where they collect supplies and then travel in Cockatoo Cleaning Co's cleaning vans to clean office and other commercial buildings. To get to work many of the staff drive and park out the back of Cockatoo Cleaning Co's warehouse. As Cockatoo Cleaning Co has a turnover of $20 million, it gets hit with 47 per cent fringe benefits tax (FBT) on the grossed-up value of car parking provided to its staff. The annual fringe benefit provided is around $1,600 per employee or around $48,000 per year based on its estimates of 30 staff using the car park. It pays FBT on the grossed-up value of this cost, which equates to an FBT bill of approximately $42,566. Cockatoo Cleaning Co's margins are tight and found it couldn't absorb these costs, so it charges staff the cost of the fringe benefit if they elect to use the car park. Cockatoo Cleaning Co's ten supervisors are also each provided with two mobile phones, costing the business $1,000 for each, which they use to navigate from job to job and get updates on changing schedules but are also available for private use. Under current arrangements, Cockatoo Cleaning Co would pay the 47 per cent FBT on the second phone they provide, which would result in a tax bill of around $9,777. Further, Cockatoo Cleaning Co needs to undertake a complex annual assessment of the value of these fringe benefits, including to assess which staff use the car park and for how long and the number of staff who receive phones and their value. This can result in significant compliance costs, including accountant's fees. Under the changes, Cockatoo Cleaning Co and its staff will no longer be hit with the over $50,000 FBT bill or the red tape and extra cost associated with compliance. Advertisement
Growing up in the princely state of Porbandar, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhis older brother, Laxmidas, did not imagine that the youngster, who did passably well in his studies and exhibited a love for theatre, would ever become a journalist. The best he hoped for was that Gandhi would study enough to become a barrister and a diwan of the state. For a while, it was touch and go, as Gandhi himself pointed out in his autobiography, My Experiments With Truth, that he wrote many years later. Fate, however, had other plans for the young MK.

After training in law and clearing the London bar, Gandhi turned his sights to South Africa, then a British colony. He migrated in 1893 to work for the offices of Dada Abdulla and Company. His own experience with apartheid, the system of racial segregation institutionalised by the colonial authorities against the Black and other non-White populations (including brown-skinned Gandhi) was a rude awakening for the 24-year-old.

Also read: Gandhi and his worldview

In 1903, he started Indian Opinion, which regularly published news about African grievances about restricted land rights and daily petty discrimination and commended African achievements, his great grand-daughter, Uma Dhupelia-Mesthrie, a professor of history at the University of Western Cape, pointed out in an essay that she wrote for the Hindustan Times as part of the Gandhi: 150 Years On series to commemorate the sesquicentennial birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation.

But Gandhi was always more than a journalist. He fought for freedoms large and small, and the news journals that he started and/ or edited through his 78 years  six in all, including Harijan, but he was a prolific writer and his pieces appeared in many places, including in this paper  served to amplify his deeply held beliefs.

Gandhi used Indian Opinion to mobilise readers, to educate them about an ethical and moral lifestyle and to highlight the harsh conditions of indentured workers on the estates and mines. His thoughts on what constituted good journalism, one free from advertisers, began to crystallise in this period. He also used the paper to establish his own leadership of the movement. It is this Gandhi and the man who went on to lead Indias liberation struggle, who would inspire generations of South African resisters, Dhupelia-Mesthrie wrote.

It was in South Africa that Gandhi gave up his flourishing legal practice; established the Phoenix Settlement where he lived with wife Kasturba and four sons, Harilal, Manilal, Ramdas and Devdas, along with other Indian settlers, and from where he published Indian Opinion; and formulated campaigns of Satyagraha. Gandhi left the running of the paper to the trustees of Phoenix farm (Manilal was one of its longest serving editors) when he returned to India in 1915, touching down in the port city where he once dreamt of becoming a solicitor while walking the corridors of the Bombay high court.

Young India

It didnt take too long for Gandhi to start newspapers in India. As his grandson Gopal Krishna Gandhi wrote for the Hindustan Times series, Young India (YI) was to become, for the duration of its lifetime (1919-1932), English-educated Indias premier thought partner.

The year it was founded in was, for India, a year of rage. The draconian Rowlatt Act restricting civil liberties in the name of the First World War, followed by the Jallianwala Bagh massacre and what came to be called The Punjab Wrong, were the chief concerns of this weekly of eight very thin pages. Its editorials made it, literally, a page turner in Indias public life of the time, Gopal Gandhi wrote.

The same year, in August, Gandhi had already started a Gujarati weekly called Navajivan, true to his belief that the majority of India lived in the villages and did not speak a word of English. If the messages of Satyagraha, Civil Disobedience, Hindu-Muslim unity  all central to Gandhis activism in the freedom struggle  was to reach them, vernacular press was the way to go. Young India, however, was started to reach out to Educated India, and to readers especially in the Madras Presidency. The paper, which worked on a subscription-only model  Gandhi did not want advertisement soiling its pages  went on to attain a circulation of 1,200 copies in its initial few weeks (it cost an anna per copy); by 1922, it had reached a weekly sales figure of 40,000.

Also read: MK Gandhis South Africa days

The paper went on to be edited by other stalwarts of the freedom struggle: Shoaib Qureshi, a son-in-law of Mohammed Ali, the Khilafat leader, C. Rajagopalachari, George Joseph, J C Kumarappa and Jairamdas Doulatram.

It became more than a thought-partner, a thought-maker and thought-changer.Educated India became an eager student of Young India, Gopal Gandhi wrote.

This is not to say that Gandhi held a very high opinion of the state of the Indian press at the time.

In an April 1924 piece for Navajivan, he wrote: Dr. (MA) Ansari [a Congressman] writes to say that those [north Indian] papers regard it as their duty to spread false rumours, to calumniate each others religion and thereby to vilify each other. It seems this has become a means of increasing the circulation of their papers. How to stop this infection from spreading has become a big problem.

Power of the editorial

This also probably explains why, speaking at the inauguration of the Hindustan Times in September 1924, Gandhi remarked that seeing the conditions in the country at the time, he would stop the printing of all newspapers except Young India, if he could. Every word and sentence published in the paper should be weighed.There should not only be no untrue statements, but no suggestio falsi or suppressio veri, he told the small crowd that had gathered for the inauguration of the printing press of the Hindustan Times. Eight days later, the first edition was taken out, with each letter painstaking hand-pressed.

Gandhi knew the power of a strongly worded editorial. In February 1943, when the British released a pamphlet, Congress responsibility for the Disturbances, 1942-43, over the 1942 Quit India resolution, Gandhi  then imprisoned at the Aga Khan palace in Poona responded with a letter, several pages long and exhaustive in its defence of the call for political freedom. The letter was published in seven instalments in the Hindustan Times.

Gandhi was a prolific writer and chronicler. Ramachandra Guha, author of two definitive Gandhi biographies offers a glimpse of it in his essay, A biographers journey: In search of the Mahatma, in which he wrote: The Collected Works are indispensable to any scholar of Gandhi. In writing my own two-volume biography of the Mahatma, I found more than half-a-dozen nuggets in this capacious and lovingly curated collection. However, I knew from the beginning that I had to go much beyond this printed series of books. The Collected Works had all the known letters that Gandhi himself wrote; but virtually none of the letters that he received or responded to. Then there were the thousands of letters written about Gandhi by his contemporaries and critics, which I wanted to study as well.

Tridip Suhrud, who recently published a critical edition of Gandhis autobiography and authored The Diary of Manu Gandhi: 1943-1944, also wrote about the various people who have written about MK Gandhi over generations. In his piece titled Essential Reading on MK Gandhi, he wrote that the most authoritative writer of Gandhi was Gandhi himself.

But of course, the best on Gandhi is Gandhi himself. His autobiography is a text for those seeking an ally in troubled times; Hind Swaraj continues to exasperate readers, new and old alike; his idiosyncratic Key to Health remains his best selling book. For all those who have leisure, volumes of his collected writings are highly recommended, Suhrud wrote.
As coronavirus cases rose statewide for a third successive day Thursday, a third nursing home in the greater Norwich area reported an outbreak involving more than half its population and 57 new cases among residents and staff.

Gov. Ned Lamont announced the additional state and local health officials would be tasked to southeastern Connecticut to enhance testing and contract tracing efforts.

And while Lamont didnt retreat from his plan to further ease restrictions on businesses one week from now, he did acknowledge the potential for that reopening phase to be interrupted.

The outbreak at Harrington Court Nursing Home in Colchester comes on the heels of recent outbreaks at managed care facilities in Groton and in Norwich  all within the past two months.

There is some community spread, Lamont said during a televised, late afternoon briefing. Were not out of the woods and we have to be very diligent about these flare-ups.

The Colchester home reported 46 positive cases among 76 residents and 11 cases among 127 staffers.

We believe the outbreak started with a patient that was admitted to our admissions observation unit from Backus Hospital in Norwich, Dr. Richard Feifer, chief medical officer for Harrington Court and other Genesis Health Care affiliates, wrote in a statement Thursday.

Outbreaks in Colchester, Groton and Norwich nursing homes in past two months

Backus Hospital spokeswoman Emily Perkins could not be immediately reached for comment.

As this pandemic continues, we remain stringent with restrictions and a whole host of other precautions Feifer wrote. As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) began providing protocols and guidelines for the coronavirus, we have diligently followed them and in many cases, have gotten out in front of public health guidelines, adopting even more stringent infection precautions than were recommended at the time.

The Colchester outbreak comes one week after Fairview Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Care Center in Groton reported four cases, two among residents and two among staff.

Since then it has escalated to 11 residents  one of whom has died  and to 10 staff members, according to a statement released late Thursday afternoon by Fairviews executive director Billy Nelson.

As a skilled nursing community, Fairview has no greater priority than the safety and well-being of our residents and staff, Nelson wrote, adding facility officials believe the outbreak was caused by one unknowingly asymptomatic staff member who came in contact with residents and employees.

Fairview has since tested all staff and residents, instituted contact tracing and reported the problem to state and local health officials.

The highest-profile incident, though, involved Three Rivers nursing home in Norwich. State health officials in mid-September ordered the removal of all residents from that facility after 27 people have become infected and four had died.

A temporary manager appointed by the state just prior to the closure uncovered numerous code violations.

The closure followed a nearly two-month investigation, health officials said, implying that cases might have begun developing at Three Rivers in July, but reports of infection were not made public until August.

State Department of Public Health officials will mobilize a rapid response team to work with hospitals, federally qualified health centers, and other care providers in Norwich and surrounding regions both to expand testing and to enhance contact tracing efforts, Public Health Commissioner Deirdre Gifford said.

Statewide infection rate approaches 2% for third consecutive day

Lamont said nearly 7% of those tested recently for COVID-19 in Norwich have been positive, more than three times the statewide infection rate.

But the new infections in southeastern Connecticut come as cases statewide have begun to rise.

The daily statewide infection rate hovered just shy of 2% Thursday for a third successive day, highest single-day marks Connecticut has seen since late June. The state enjoyed rates below 1% for much of the summer.

Thursdays statewide report also showed three more deaths from COVID-19, bringing the total to 4,511 since the pandemic began. Hospitalizations from the virus also rose by three, reaching 107 across Connecticut.

Lamont has noted that weekly infection rates  a rolling average of the previous seven daily rates  remain among the lowest in the nation.

Connecticuts weekly rate stood at 1.3% on Thursday. By comparison, many states in the Deep South and Midwest have weekly infection rates ranging from 10% to 20%.

Connecticut is set to enter its third phase of easing COVID-19 restrictions  one that will permit theaters and concert halls to reopen on a limited basis and increase the indoor capacity of restaurants and event venues  in just one week.

And Lamont said Tuesday and Wednesday, despite rising infection rates, he still planned to go forward with that reopening effort.

When asked again Thursday, he initially deflected the question, saying thats not even taking place until Oct. 8. But when pressed what it might take for him to reverse this opening, the governor added If I saw more Norwichs happening.

Lamont also cautioned residents against relaxing social distancing, mask-wearing and other personal safeguards as the state tries to reopen further. Slow down, he said. This virus never ceases to surprise us in a negative way.
The medical doctor who granted the Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Mr Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, a medical excuse duty that resulted in his absence in court last Monday, reported at the Accra High Court Thursday morning in response to the court's order to appear.



Dr Ken Addo of the Holy Trinity Medical Centre/Spa and Health Farm, was ordered by the court to appear before it today [Thursday, October 1, 2020] to explain what went into he granting a medical excuse duty to Mr Agyapong.



However, when he arrived at the court premises, the court, presided over by Justice Amos Wuntah Wuni, varied its order for the doctor to rather appear on Tuesday, October 6, 2020.



...Upon sober reflection on the return date, it is herby ordered that the said court order [with a return date of October 1, 2020] be and is hereby varied to read: It is hereby ordered, that the said Dr Ken Addo of Holy Trinity Medical Centre/SPA and Health Farm, do appear before the court on Tuesday, the 6th day of October, 2020 at 10: 00 a.m. to speak to the Medical Excuse Duty Form, the variation order stated.



Mr Agyapong on Monday, September 28, 2020 failed to show up in court to answer contempt charges due to what his lawyers said was complication from a post-COVID-19 condition.



His lead counsel, Mr Kwame Gyan explained that his client got the complication after last Fridays court hearing.



He therefore presented a medical excuse form and requested the court to adjourn the case for 14 days to allow his client to recuperate.



Order



The presiding judge, Justice Amos Wuntah Wuni agreed to adjourn the case but ordered the medical doctor who wrote the medical excuse duty to appear before the court on Thursday.



Contempt case



Mr. Agyapong is in court over an alleged contemptuous comments in which he described the judge as stupid.



Mr. Agyapongs alleged comments were made in connection with a land matter in which Susan Bandoh and Christopher Akuetteh Kotei had sued him (Kennedy Agyapong), Ibrahim Jaja, Nana Yaw Duodu aka Sledge and the Inspector General of Police.



While the case was still at the Land Division of the High Court (Land Court 12), the MP allegedly scandalised the court on a programme aired on NET2 TV and Oman FM on September 2, this year.



A court order signed on September 9, by Justice Wuni said, "I hereby summon the said Kennedy Ohene Agyapong per a warrant issued under my hand and seal to appear before the High Court (Land Court 12) on Monday, September 14, 2020, at 10:00 a.m. to show cause why he should not be severely punished for contempt if the matters are proven against him to the satisfaction of the court."









Source: graphic.com.gh









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A 43-year-old man in Georgia accused an acquaintance who worked at a nearby hospital of violating federal privacy laws by emailing graphic photos of patients, according to court filings.

But it was all a lie, prosecutors say.

Jeffrey Parker pleaded guilty to one count of making false statements after an agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation found inconsistencies in his story during an interview last year, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of Georgia said Wednesday in a news release.

He now faces up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine as well as restitution, court filings show. A sentencing date has not been set.

Jeffrey Parker tried to portray himself as a whistleblower while attempting to frame a former acquaintance, U.S. Attorney Bobby L. Christine said in the release. This fake complaint not only caused potential harm for an innocent victim, but it also unnecessarily diverted resources from federal investigators whose diligent work shredded his web of lies.

Parker contacted the FBI in October 2019 with a whistleblower complaint against a woman who worked at a hospital in Savannah, according to court filings.

The woman and the hospital are not identified, but Fox 28 described her as a former lover.

Court testimony referred to a relationship between Parker and the acquaintance, spokesperson Barry L. Paschal for the Southern District confirmed in an email to McClatchy News.

Parker accused the woman of violating the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, also known as HIPAA, which prevents the disclosure of sensitive patient information without their consent.

The alleged violation involved the transmission of graphic photographs, including, for example, a transmission that occurred Oct. 16, 2019, of gunshot victims who had been treated at Hospital 1 at some point previously, court filings state.

Parker used fake email addresses with real peoples names to back up these allegations in messages sent to the hospital, the U.S. Department of Justice and the FBI, prosecutors said.

Story continues

He also told the FBI he was receiving threatening messages as retaliation, according to court filings.

I am actually a bit frightened now for my safety, he reportedly said.

Prosecutors said the FBI immediately acted to protect him and further investigate his claims. But when an agent probed him about inconsistencies in his story during an interview at the FBI field office in Savannah, Parker folded.

He copped to the fake email addresses and admitted to sending the threats to himself, court filings state.

Prosecutors charged Parker with making false statements to the FBI earlier this year. He was arraigned before a federal judge on Jan. 16 and issued a $20,000 appearance bond, court filings show.

Parker was also released with certain stipulations, including submitting to mental health treatment and having no contact with the victim.

The judge accepted his plea agreement Wednesday.
It is unusual for the Booker, one of the most prestigious literary awards in the world, to delay its prize announcement for a single books release.

By Alexandra Alter

The literary awards season kicks into high gear every fall, with the Nobel Prize in literature, Booker Prize and National Book Awards often landing in quick succession. But this year, another major literary event threatens to make an already overcrowded fall publishing season even more chaotic: the release of former President Barack Obamas memoir, A Promised Land.

On 29 September, the Booker Prize said it was moving its award ceremony, previously scheduled for 17 November to 19 November to avoid overlapping with the publication of Obamas book.

We thought it unfortunate that two of the most exciting literary events of the year  the announcement of the winner of the 2020 Booker Prize and the publication of Barack Obamas memoirs  were due to fall on the same day, so weve decided to give readers a couple of days breathing space, Gaby Wood, literary director of the Booker Prize Foundation, said in a statement.

It is unusual for the Booker, one of the most prestigious literary awards in the world, to delay its prize announcement for a single books release. The date change highlights how much gravitational pull Obamas book has, with a first printing of 3 million copies and an all but guaranteed status as a megabestseller.

The Bookers decision to move out of Obamas way could also fuel new criticism that the prize, originally established in 1969 to honor writers from Commonwealth countries and the Republic of Ireland, has become too Americanized and increasingly focused on the US book market. American authors have dominated the Booker nominees in recent years, following a 2014 rule change that made any novel written in English and published in the UK eligible.

Since the change, American novelists Paul Beatty and George Saunders have won the prize; this year, out of the six shortlisted books, three are by American writers, while a fourth author holds dual Scottish and American nationality. Two years ago, a group of prominent writers argued that the foundation should ban American authors from eligibility, but the foundation was unswayed.

The Booker, which in previous years has been announced in October, will now be awarded directly after the National Book Awards, which will take place in an online ceremony on 18 November, potentially creating a logjam of coverage that could dilute the impact of the prizes.

With them coming as close as they are to us, of course were concerned, were worried for our authors, said Lisa Lucas, executive director of the National Book Foundation, which administers the National Book Awards. Its difficult to have a prize like the Booker, which didnt need to participate in the American landscape in the years before their change, but now you have American books dominating the Booker list. They are now having to function on some level alongside our prizes.

Both the Booker and the National Book Awards typically provide a sales bump to the winners, but the proximity of the prizes could result in less press coverage and fewer sales, in a year when debut and lesser-known authors are struggling for attention. As the pandemic and shutdowns forced many independent booksellers to close or shift to online sales, a critical outlet that drives discovery for debut authors, poets and writers of narrative nonfiction has nearly evaporated.

This year, debut novels account for four of the six books that are shortlisted for the Booker, including Douglas Stuarts Shuggie Bain, about a child growing up in 1980s Scotland; and Brandon Taylors Real Life, which centers on a Black gay graduate student. Stuart was also longlisted for the National Book Award for fiction, along with debut author Megha Majumdar for her acclaimed novel, A Burning. The other four National Book Awards longlists  nonfiction, poetry, translated literature and young peoples literature  all include debut authors as well.

The collision of major literary prizes and events isnt just bad for marketing and publicity efforts. This year, it could cause significant logistical hurdles as well. Severe shortages at the printing presses, which are under financial strain, have made it even more difficult than usual for publishers to meet spikes in demand for particular titles. Prizes almost always drive sales, and often for titles that were not obvious commercial hits, so publishers and booksellers could be left short-handed.

Awards administrators are dealing with unprecedented challenges this year by moving their ceremonies online and holding judging panels over Zoom. Still, many in the literary world feel there is much to celebrate in 2020, with so many new books to champion.

The winner is actually books, Lucas said. And getting them into the hands of people.

Alexandra Alter c.2020 The New York Times Company
Other conservatives tried to paint Mr. Wallace as a Trump hater in disguise, pointing out that he is a registered Democrat. This is true. Mr. Wallace has described himself as independent, and has said he registered as a Democrat because where I live, in Washington, D.C., the only elections that count are the Democratic primaries.

But other claims about Mr. Wallace were not true, such as a rumor that circulated on WeChat, the Chinese messaging app, that claimed he was fired from moderating any future debates. Some users also shared an image that was falsely labeled as showing Mr. Wallace with Jeffrey Epstein, the financier and accused sex trafficker. (The photo actually showed Mr. Wallace with the actor George Clooney, a vocal liberal with whom he is friendly.)

The right-wing attacks have not stopped at Mr. Wallace. Conservatives have also begun casting doubts about the fairness of the second presidential debate, which is scheduled for Oct. 15 and is slated to be moderated by Steve Scully, a longtime C-SPAN political editor and host.

One right-wing meme accused Mr. Scully of being connected to the deep state. Other conservatives referred to him as a former Biden intern, or said he and Mr. Biden had gone to college together. (They did not go to college together, although Mr. Scully did intern with Mr. Bidens Senate office while an undergraduate at American University. He also was an intern for Senator Edward M. Kennedy.)
Fat Bear Week is an annual celebration of the incredible poundage packed on by the brown bears at Brooks River in Katmai National Park in Alaska as they prepare for winter hibernation by catching and eating as many spawning salmon as they can manage.

The brown bears at Brooks River are the most watched bears on the planet thanks to Explore.orgs live online feeds from several cameras monitoring the bears as they feast.

The most successful of the bears will eat as many as 30 salmon weighing more than 120 pounds every day.

During Fat Bear Week September 30-October 6, viewers are given the chance to vote through a series of daily, head-to-head, single-elimination, matchup brackets, leading to a weight-gain champion bout on October 6. Voting is open from noon-10 p.m. daily.

Explore.org explained, "Each winter, curled snug in their dens, brown bears endure a months-long famine. During hibernation, bears will not eat or drink and they will lose one-third of their body weight.

"Their winter survival depends on accumulating ample fat reserves before entering the den.

"Katmais brown bears are at their fattest in late summer and early fall after a summer spent trying to satisfy their profound hunger.

"Each bear faces its own challenges in order to gain the body mass necessary to survive.

"Adult males need to grow large to dominate the best fishing spots and secure mating opportunities.

"Female bears need to gain weight for their own survival as well as to support the birth and growth of cubs. Bear cubs experience the same hunger as older bears but also undergo tremendous growth spurts.

"Juvenile bears living on their own for the first time must navigate a gauntlet of hazards to establish a home range and find food without mothers guidance.

"Bears gorge on the richest, most easily obtainable foods they can find. In Katmai National Park, that most often means salmon.

"Dozens of bears gather at Brooks River to feast on salmon from late June until mid-October.

"Perhaps no other river on Earth offers bears the chance to feed on salmon for so long.

Fat bears exemplify the richness of Katmai National Park and Bristol Bay, Alaska, a wild region that is home to more brown bears than people and the largest, healthiest runs of sockeye salmon left on the planet.

The National Park Service note that Fat Bear Week "is about body positivity. A fat bear is a healthy bear. Fattening up as winter approaches is a matter of life and death for the bears: relying on stored fat for energy, they can lose up to a third of their body fat as they slow down for the winter. The more bulk they put on, the more likely they are to survive the long, cold months.

The bears enter a medical state known as hyperphagia in which they eat non-stop and can gain up to 4 pounds in a single day. Some bears can eat dozens of sockeye salmon each day, with each salmon packing about 4,000 calories.
Fayetteville, N.Y.  Seven Fayetteville Elementary staff members who tested positive for the coronavirus appear to have contracted the virus through social interactions on school grounds, according to Onondaga County health officials.

Its the first reported large cluster of school employees testing positive for the virus in Central New York.

The social interactions could have been small staff meetings or informal social gatherings at the school, health department officials said in a statement in response to questions from Syracuse.com | The Post-Standard.

The health department officials said while this is a cluster, they cant definitively say they all got it from each other.

On Sunday, the Fayetteville-Manlius school district announced five staff members at Fayetteville Elementary School had tested positive for Covid-19. The district reported late last week that two teachers at the school also tested positive.

No other Central New York school district has reported that many employees testing positive in one school.

Another six staff members and four students from Fayetteville Elementary are in quarantine because of possible exposure to the virus, district officials said.

Fayetteville Elementary switched to remote learning all this week.

F-M superintendent Craig Tice said how the four teachers and three staff members contracted the virus has been puzzling.

Of the seven who tested positive, three met with each other and another two met together at school in small staff meetings, he said. He said they wore masks and social distanced.

All seven did not meet together at once, and one didnt appear to cross paths with any of the others, he said.

Several of them also got together socially outside school, Tice said.

Tice said the district is looking to see what changes can be made, such as using larger rooms for small meetings or social gatherings.

"We are rethinking everything,'' Tice said.

Tice also said several Wellwood Middle School students have also been quarantined after being present at an off-campus event, Tice said.

Tice said what everyone has to remember is that the community is still in the middle of a pandemic, and school districts are all being affected.

"We are doing our best,'' he said.

The seven positive cases do not meet the definition of spread or school spread at this time, the county health department officials said. Its too soon to determine that.

Spread is defined as a second group of cases developing from the first set of cases in the same location, in the infectious period, where people develop the illness within the incubation period, which is a full 14 days after the current cases, they said.

Elizabeth Doran covers education, suburban government and development, breaking news and more. Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact her anytime at 315-470-3012 or email edoran@syracuse.com
BLACKSBURG  Virginia Tech enrolled more than 30,000 undergraduates this fall, reaching a goal three years early that President Tim Sands made a hallmark of the universitys growth.

Undergraduate enrollment increased 2.4% over last year from 29,300 to 30,016 students, according to a fall census taken Sept. 21, the university announced Thursday.

Sands set a target to enroll 30,000 undergraduates by 2023, a goal derived shortly after he became president in summer 2014.

A statement from Sands about hitting the enrollment goal would have to wait, a university spokesman said Thursday, because the president is currently focused on navigating the impact of the pandemic.

While the coronavirus pandemic upended the college admissions process this spring, state data released this week showed overall enrollment did not take as big a hit as some analysts feared.

Enrollment across undergraduate, graduate and professional programs in Virginia fell 1.3% compared to the previous fall, according to estimates from the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia.

Community colleges faced the brunt of that decline, with enrollment down nearly 10%. A vast majority of classes at the states 23 community colleges are remote this semester.

At public four-year institutions like Tech, total enrollment fell modestly, by 0.2% from 223,438 to 222,981 students statewide, according to SCHEV. While the number of new first-time students fell about 10% for the fall, enrollment of others, such as transfer students, made up for the gap.

At Tech, 37,010 students  undergraduates, graduates and those at the veterinary and medical schools  are enrolled this fall, up 1.7% from fall 2019, the university said. Enrollment at Techs graduate school fell slightly from the previous fall, to 6,332 students, from 6,414 in 2019. The remaining 662 students are in the veterinary and medical schools.

This years freshman class is 8% African American and 10.4% Hispanic or Latinx, numbers that have increased by about two-thirds since 2017, when the university made changes in its admissions process to help recruit a more diverse class.

The freshman class stands at 6,574 students, roughly 100 students below the universitys goal, and fewer than the 7,604 entering freshmen counted in the 2019 fall census. Tech said that over-enrollment  which required the conversion of hotel rooms into dorms  was a one-time glitch caused by a new application process and buzz around Techs planned Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia.

Blacksburg Mayor Leslie Hager-Smith, who initially had expressed criticism of Techs unexpected and rapid growth in 2019, said Thursday that she didnt have any comment on the university achieving the goal of 30,000 undergraduates this year.

But she noted that the town council has recently stepped up its scrutiny of new student housing in an attempt to protect and expand non-student housing stock.

If VT is intent on continuing to grow its student body (and rumor has it that they are), it will need to be more actively engaged in housing them, Hager-Smith said in an email. The Town is landlocked. And VT administrators understand this: Thats why we are working together to create a possible faculty village, with an underlying land trust to make the homes affordable. The lack of housing in Blacksburg has become an obstacle to recruitment and retention at VT.

While Tech enrolled more than 30,000 undergraduates this semester, fewer may be in the Blacksburg area than normal because of the pandemic.

About 8,600 students are living in university housing, compared to 10,000 normally. This semester, roughly 13,000 students live in Blacksburg, according to a school spokesman, though that figure doesnt capture all those who live off-campus in the region.

The pandemic took its greatest toll on enrollment from international students, the university said.

Enrollment for the incoming class stands at 201 international students, compared to a goal of 475 for this year.

Additionally, more students this semester sought to defer their studies: 339 freshmen and 88 transfer students deferred admission, compared to 94 freshman and 10 transfer students in fall 2019.

As the pandemic upends higher education, Sands said the new normal has given leaders opportunities to expand the boundaries of campus.

I tend to think of our Blacksburg campus specifically sort of like a home base, rather than where someone should be spending four years, he said in an interview with The Roanoke Times last month. Its not a bad place to spend four years, but what would be a much better experience is if we could start our students in Blacksburg and then have them gradually migrate out, rotate out, end up doing research or service learning or study abroad somewhere else, but still be fully connected. I think thats the door that has been opened up.

Radford University enrollment figures wont be available until Oct. 15, a school spokesman said.

At a board of visitors meeting last month, Radford officials released preliminary data that freshman enrollment would fall 20.8%, from 1,599 students last fall to 1,267 students. Total undergraduate numbers were projected to decline 8.3%, from 7,967 students to 7,305 students.

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Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-02 03:43:33|Editor: huaxia

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GENEVA, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet on Thursday presented an oral update on systemic racism to the ongoing 45th session of the UN Human Rights Council, saying that her office continued to receive reports of police brutality and racism against people of African descent.

She also reported to the council her activities within the framework of the International Decade for People of African Descent, noting that structural inequalities and racial discrimination had been manifest in violence against people of African descent, including by police.

The disproportionate and devastating severity of the COVID-19 pandemic on people of African descent also exposed their marginalisation. Ending these and other harms caused by entrenched racial discrimination in institutions was crucial, she said.

Earlier in June of this year after the deaths of U.S. citizen George Floyd in Minneapolis and other people of African descent, the 44th session of the UN Human Rights Council adopted a resolution, strongly condemning the continuing racially discriminatory and violent practices perpetrated by law enforcement agencies against Africans and people of African descent.

The resolution requested the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to prepare a report on systemic racism, violations of international human rights law, and abuses against Africans and people of African descent by law enforcement agencies.

"Law enforcement officials carried out some of the most necessary and challenging work in all societies. They had a duty to perform their functions in line with human rights law, while respecting equality and dignity," Bachelet said.

Refiloe Litjobo, Chairman-Rapporteur of the Intergovernmental Working Group on the Effective Implementation of the Durban Declaration and Program of Action, also said at Thursday's session that the current COVID-19 pandemic had particularly hit groups that already faced discrimination, including people of African descent.

In this regard, the massive demonstrations around the world in solidarity with Floyd had shown that all countries were concerned by the problem of racism, he said.

In the following general debate on this topic, some speakers denounced the political instrumentalization of racism in western countries. Others called on states to address violations of the rights of indigenous peoples, which they considered to be another form of racial discrimination.

Speaking in Thursday's general debate on racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance were Germany on behalf of the European Union, Pakistan on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Kuwait on behalf of a group of countries and China on behalf of a group of countries. Enditem
The discussion in the Trilateral Contact Group of issues related to the mutual release and exchange of conflict-related detainees has not brought results.

This was said in a statement by the Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office in Ukraine and in the Trilateral Contact Group (TCG), Ambassador Heidi Grau, after the regular meetings of the TCG and its Working Groups held through video conferencing on September 30.

"The Humanitarian Working Group considered issues related to the mutual release and exchange of conflict-related detainees. The discussion did not bring results. It is unacceptable that political considerations are preconditions for resolving humanitarian issues," she said.

The ceasefire in the conflict zone in the east of Ukraine continues to be effective. This has a beneficial impact on the living conditions of the civilian population. However, this has not yet had a positive effect on the activity of the TCG; moreover, a lot of time was spent today on procedural issues," Grau noted.

The Security Working Group, in addition to the overall situation in the conflict zone and the provision of local security guarantees for the repair of civilian infrastructure, discussed the "Measures to strengthen the ceasefire" and, in particular, the functioning of the co-ordination mechanism for responding to ceasefire violations. Discussions on this issue will continue at the next meeting.

As regards preparations for the simultaneous opening of two new entry-exit checkpoints (EECPs) near the settlements of Zolote and Shchastia in the Luhansk region, the meeting participants confirmed that the work is proceeding as planned and that the EECPs will be opened as planned by 10 November 2020.

The focus of the Economic Working Group was on environmental problems and water supply issues across the line of contact in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions.

Discussions in the Political Working Group on the Verkhovna Rada Resolution No. 795-IX "On the appointment of regular local elections in 2020" did not allow to hold consultations on the agenda of the working group, in particular, the peculiarities of self-government in certain districts of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine (ORDLO), amnesty and the modalities of local elections in ORDLO.
CAMBRIDGE  The holding companies for Brantford Power Inc. and Cambridges Energy+ Inc. announced Thursday they have endorsed a joint memorandum of understanding (MOU) to explore a potential merger.

The move would see the 40,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers within Brantford and the 67,000 customers in Cambridge, North Dumfries and Brant County merged under one umbrella.

After both boards endorsed the MOU on Thursday, it will now require the City of Cambridge, the Township of North Dumfries and the City of Brantford to sign off to give the green light to move forward.

The MOU is not an agreement to merge the holding companies. Instead, it is an agreement for all parties to undertake independent financial and business reviews to evaluate the potential of merging.

If it goes ahead, the process will take the better part of a year or more, according to a press release from Brantford Power.

Experience has demonstrated that the consolidation of electric utilities across Ontario has resulted in positive outcomes for the shareholders, the customers and the employees, reads the release.

North Dumfries Mayor Susan Foxton confirmed on Thursday they have not yet signed off on the fact-finding mission. She said council will discuss the matter before deciding.

North Dumfries owns a 7.9 per cent stake of the holding company Cambridge and North Dumfries Energy Plus Inc., with Cambridge owning the remaining 92.1 per cent.

Brantford Energy Corporation  the holding company for Brantford Power and Brantford Hydro  is solely owned by the City of Brantford.

Members of council from both Cambridge and North Dumfries will appoint a Shareholders Strategic Advisory Committee next week to evaluate the potential benefits of a possible merger.

Cambridge city manager David Calder said the committee is expected to report back to the respective councils with their findings within a month.

Energy + vice president of customer care and communication Barbara Shortreed said a possible merger could translate to more stable and competitive electricity distribution rates, increased capacity to deliver advancements in technology in response to customer requests, increased efficiencies and enhanced opportunities for customer innovation.

Utility mergers are not uncommon in the area, with the Ontario Energy Board recently approving Guelph Hydros merger with Alectra Utilities  a utility serving the Golden Horseshoe region  in 2018.

In that decision, the board noted that the merger met the no harm test, and the City of Guelph would receive higher annual dividends to invest in local infrastructure, programs and services.

But the merger didnt come without its controversies, with the city previously refusing a merger with Hamiltons Horizon Utilities in 2008.

The cost of that failed business case, including expenses for outside consulting firms, came in between $350,000 and $500,000.
(This is part of an ongoing series that showcases some of the best food and drinks in Central New York that you probably dont know about. Do you have a hidden gem? Share your favorite by emailing me at cmiller@syracuse.com or texting me at 315-382-1984. I might even buy you a meal. If you want to know my next hidden gem before its published, join my text group for subscribers where I will announce it a day in advance. Thatll allow you to get there before everyone else.)

****

Skaneateles, N.Y.  A hidden gem doesnt necessarily have to be a bar or a restaurant; it can be a place that gives your mind and body some time off, even for just a few minutes.

Thats exactly what youll experience once you walk under the cast-iron Welcome to the Farm sign that serves as a gateway to Willowdale Bend. Buy a bottle of wine, grab a mug of local beer to have with the homemade snacks and sit back in one of the overstuff chairs in the backyard patio that overlooks the 60 acres of farmland.

It wont be long before youre greeted by a rooster or maybe one of the geese out for a walk.

Dont worry, hes not going to bite you, farmer Rick Frost yelled from the hay barn. Hes just saying hi. Hell be moving along soon.

These birds roam free among the visitors at Willowdale Bend.Charlie Miller | cmiller@syracuse.com

Willowdale Bend sits between Skaneateles and Otisco lakes in the town of Spafford. Rick and his wife, Joyce, bought the property 14 years ago, and she secured Willowdales business license. The farm is now home to dozens of rescue animals or retired residents of the Rosamond Gifford Zoo in Syracuse. Rick is there throughout the day and night caring for the animals. Their daughter, 16-year-old Maria, still gets up at 5 a.m. every morning to help. Shes worked long hours to nurse the calves back to health, and she helps with the feeding chores.

Its newest residents are four bison who moved in last Tuesday. Two more bison from the zoo family will arrive within a few weeks.

An old farmhouse at the front of the property serves as a country store, a country store with six draft beer taps and a healthy selection of New York State wines. Because New Yorkers, by law, must get food with their alcohol, Willowdale Bend sells Amish baked goods, free-range eggs, cheese, beef sticks, homemade chicken, tuna and crab salad. They offer local cider and donuts as well.

The whole idea of turning an old farmhouse into a taproom came on a hot day last August. Two bicyclists stopped by and asked asked the Frosts where they could get a drink of water. The nearest tavernFranks Moondanceis a few miles north, and they were thirsty. (The Moondance, by the way, is another Hidden Gem of CNY.)

We gave them a drink, and they walked around, Rick said. We got to talking and thought, Hey, we should make this into a place that everybody could enjoy. Weve still got things we want to do, but people seem to like it.

Dan Mathews, the owner of Local 315 brewery, and his wife frequently stop at Willowdale for a beer on the way home from their Otisco Lake camp. Dan gives the farm the brewerys used grain for feed. Hes also donated a couple of his goats. Local 315 Brewery now has one of the taps here. Right now, its his raspberry wheat beer. A pint of beer here is $5.50, and its served in a frosty glass or mug.

Its the perfect place to end a weekend, he said. Well go there and have a beer, and then well stop at The Moondance for some chicken wings. Ricks really got it going on.

The animals seem to love Rick Frost, who owns the farm with his wife.Charlie Miller | cmiller@syracuse.com

Thats what people do at Willowdale: They have a drink and unwind. They visit the animals, soak up the scenery, soak up the sun while soaking up some local drinks. A barn on the right side of the property houses a flea market on weekends. Vendors sell anything from antique furniture and tools to toys, blankets, glassware and artwork.

The Frosts dont charge vendors to set up shop. They figure theyll bring more people to Willowdale, which means theyll spend money in the store, which means theyll raise more money for the animals.

Karen Southard, a 77-year-old former restaurateur, is among the many vendors the Frosts dont charge. She cooks food for the weekend guests. Rick built her a shed to cook and serve from. Her hamburgers, by the way, are well worth the $5 ($6 with cheese). She uses an 80% lean ground beef mix for her 6-ounce patties, and she soaks the meat in au jus so theyre extra juicy.

Ive been around a long time, Karen said while serving us a burger and fries. Im not giving up yet. I love it here. How can you not?

Excellent point, Karen. It costs nothing to visit here. Any money the Frosts get from sales goes to feed the rescue animals. Rick is already stocking up on hay. Hell need 200 700-pound bales of hay to feed his flock through the winter. His cousin owns Tims Pumpkin Patch up the road. Rick just bought dozens of pumpkins for the animals, and hell stock up once Halloween passes.

Their 1,800-pound bull Marshmellow enjoys pumpkins as part of his buffet. On Monday, Mellow seemed protective as Rick broke open a pumpkin to send across the electric fence. The 18-inch orange squash didnt last long. And yes, thats how Marshmellow spells his name. Perhaps its because he boasts a mellow personality.

It's dinner time for 'Marshmellow,' the 10-year-old bull.Charlie Miller | cmiller@syracuse.com

The animals at Willowdale mostly came from auction houses, the zoo and nearby farms. Some were sick, and some were headed to the meat-rendering plant. Rick figures hes adding a few years onto their lives by welcoming them here.

The bison were all born at the zoo. Ted Fox, the zoos director, lives down the road.

Rick created a new home for the bison family to roam behind the hay barn. Its surrounded by an electric fence to keep them safely inside. While they dont need shelter, he built a three-sided shed thatll keep them dry when it rains or snows.

The day they arrived and got off the wagon, they just took off running, he said. This much space was new. And theyd never seen cows before.

The four bison and 16 cows get along fine, and all seem happy.

Two of the four bison from the Rosamond Gifford Zoo that now live at Willowdale Bend in Marietta.Charlie Miller | cmiller@syracuse.com

Joyce joked that not only do they rescue animals, they also rescue people. Theresa Hamilton counts herself among them. Shes a three-time cancer survivor who came here to sell antiques in the flee market. She now tends bar on weekends and is taking on the role of executive. She also cooks a crockpot dish for visitors on Fridays.

Her 11-year-old daughter has become a fixture on the farm. She helps feed the animals every day, runs the cash register, raises money for the rescue animal fund and gives tours on weekends. If you ask nicely, she might play you a song on her clarinet.

We call her The Chicken Whisperer because shes so good with the animals, Theresa said.

Emily Hamilton, 11, helps out around the farm, and she gives tours.Charlie Miller | cmiller@syracuse.com

Willowdale is Joyces happy place. The official logo of the farm is a bright yellow sunflower. Her sister-in-law, Teri Gilbert Lathrop, is an artist in Hawaii. During her last visit to New York in 2018, she created the logo on the south-facing side of the propertys silo. She painted the sunflower from a lift with her husband, Marine Col. Daniel T. Lathrop, on a clear 90-plus-degree day.

This place is about light. Its about simplicity, Joyce said. Theres no negativity here. The vendors are all positive, the animals are happy and bring happiness to the visitors. And hopefully people will leave here happy and refreshed.

Teri Gilbert Lathrop, an artist from Hawaii, painted the sunflower on this silo on a 90-plus degree day.Charlie Miller | cmiller@syracuse.com

Willowdale is only open on weekends, but people tend to stop while driving by. During feeding time on Monday evening, four strangers from Syracuse pulled into the driveway because they saw the sign for cage-free eggs. Rick told them to have a look around. They stayed for nearly an hour. They laughed at Sarah the African goose and Drake the mallard. They had never seen mini ponies before.

This is the most beautiful place Ive ever seen, the driver of the carful said as they pulled out of the gravel driveway and headed to Route 174 to return to the city. Its so close, but seems so far away. Its paradise. Well be back this weekend.

Willowdale Bend in Marietta.Charlie Miller | cmiller@syracuse.com

Next year, visitors will be able to fish from one of the two ponds behind the backyard patio. Rick just had it stocked with smallmouth bass and some algae feeders.

Youd be surprised at how many kids have never dropped a line to fish, Rick said. Kids need to unplug. They need to get away from their phones and video games, even for just a little while. They need to relax.

Rick Frost, who owns Willowdale Bend in Spafford with his wife, tends to his cows during supper time.Charlie Miller | cmiller@syracuse.com

Willowdale is open for parties and other gatherings. Call 315-415-8925 to schedule.

The Details

The venue: Willowdale Bend, 2080 Willowdale Road, Skaneateles, NY 13152, (315) 415-8925

Hours: Noon-7 p.m. Friday; 10 to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Credit cards? Yes for drinks, not at food stand

Access to disabled? Yes

Parking: Plenty

****

MORE IN CNY

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We took the Scenic Root home, and we were so glad we did (Dining In Review)

Syracuses Speach Candy celebrates 100 years of sweet business (video)

Charlie Miller finds the best in food, drink and fun across Central New York. Contact him at 315-382-1984, or by email at cmiller@syracuse.com.
CALGARYLocal dignitaries watched in silence as the long, black hair hit the freshly laid pavement.

A young man from the Tsuutina Nation stood at the podium as he took a pair of scissors to his braids Thursday in protest of a new road he says has erased his home and his familys history.

Today is not a good day, a visibly upset Seth Cardinal Dodginghorse said, taking a turn at the microphone in between politicians who had cheered the long-awaited opening of the ring road, a major new commuter route in Calgary.

For the past six years, Ive had to drive by and see my home destroyed every single day, he said. I dont think any of you will understand that. Have you ever felt upset in your local community when one of the trees was knocked down near your house?

Seth Cardinal-Dodginghorse of the Tsuutina Nation cut off his braids in an emotional protest of a new Calgary ring road Thursday that he says was built on his familys former home. (Credit: CBC Calgary)

Imagine your home and your history removed, all in the name of progress.

Dodginghorse, who was not listed as an official speaker at the roadside news conference but held the microphone for more than 10 minutes, revived a heated debate over the new road, which has been in the works for more than a decade, and served as a reminder of the the tough decisions First Nations sometimes face when balancing economic development and protection of the land.

The road in question is a 12-kilometre stretch of highway that makes up the southwest part of a new road that circles Calgary, and is expected to shave 6.5 kilometres off existing travel routes.

This road will improve commutes and help create more opportunities for job creators and Calgarians who will benefit from this world-class infrastructure, Alberta Premier Jason Kenney said in a news release.

The Tsuutina Nation has been living alongside Calgary, then a relatively new Fort built by the North-West Mounted Police, since 1880, and the proximity has occasionally put the two communities in conflict over land use. The Tsuutinas reserve was laid out in a tweak to Treaty 7 in 1883, and their borders remained largely unchanged for more than a century, according to an online history of the Ring Road published by local author Jesse Salus.

When it was first proposed, members of the Tsuutina were openly divided over selling a portion of that land for the project. While the money would be an economic boon, parts of the land in question were considered sacred.

But in 2013, 69 per cent of voters on the reserve chose to go ahead with a deal that saw the land handed over to the province in exchange for $275-million lump sum, additional funding to move existing houses, and a section of new land.

Tsuu Tina citizens have democratically struggled with the benefit of economic opportunity against the cultural and spiritual challenge of transferring land that is much more than just property to us, it has been part of the basis of our very collective identity, Chief Roy Whitney said in a statement to the Calgary Herald in 2013.

But Dodginghorse said his family was left with no choice but to move in 2014: I remember the day, driving to go to school, and I saw all the trees knocked down. These were the trees that I played in, that my Tsuutina grandmothers played in, and I knew all the trails, he said.

Dodginghorse spoke of his memories of the land and his mothers anger. At one point, he pulled out a beaded bag that he said held dirt and the remains of trees that had once been on his family land.

This is something that affects my family and I need you to know that, he said.

With this, I leave a piece of me with the road.

He pulled out a pair of scissors and cut off the braids that hung past his shoulders, first the left, then the right, before tossing the hair to the ground and walking away.

With Dodginghorse looking on, Chief Whitney came back to the podium to say that the decision to sell the land had been put to a community, and said everyone who lived along the corridor had an opportunity at several meetings to express their opinions. Those who voted in favour, it was most of the nation.

Theres a time or place for everything, and this is not the time or place.

Correction  Oct. 2, 2020: This article was edited to correct the spelling of Seth Cardinal Dodginghorses surname in several spots.

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Vets are urging farmers to take steps now to avoid possible injury and distress to livestock during traditional fireworks dates such as Bonfire and New Year's Eve.

The advice comes as concern rises over an increase in unregulated backyard fireworks this year as official displays are limited by Covid-19 restrictions.

Veterinary professionals see first-hand the impact of firework-related distress in livestock and horses at this time of the year.

In a survey conducted by British Veterinary Association (BVA) in 2018, around one in 14 vets in the UK reported seeing animals with firework-related injuries over the previous year.

By far the most commonly reported cases were self-injuries caused by fireworks-related anxiety, such as fractures in horses that had bolted from their fields.

The negative impact isnt restricted to noise levels - the debris and remnants of fireworks and paper lanterns in the countryside can also pose a serious risk of injury to livestock.

BVA Senior Vice President Daniella Dos Santos said the loud noises and bright flashes from fireworks can be extremely traumatic for livestock.

"While Covid-19 restrictions may lead to the cancellation of official displays, we are worried about a rise in the number of backyard celebrations," she added.

Wed encourage livestock keepers to consult with their vet to discuss management and treatment options, which may include noise desensitisation techniques, applying pheromone products around the house, and preparing a safe place for animals.

With professional input and owner commitment and patience, a phobia of fireworks can be effectively treated with appropriate behaviour-modification techniques."

Cows or sheep startled by the loud noises from fireworks are at risk of injuring themselves on fencing, farm equipment or fixtures and fittings within their housing, the BVA notes.

Poultry are at risk of smother, where in a fear response birds huddle together, which can result in death for some.

Horses and ponies are prey animals and exhibit flight responses in response to any threat, which can result in running away or trying to escape their enclosures, the body adds.

How can I keep livestock safe during firework season?

The British Veterinary Association has issued the following tips for farmers to keep livestock safe:

 Keep livestock housed at times when fireworks are likely to be set off locally and remove any firework debris from grazing pasture before letting them out.

 Horses may be better turned out in a field than stabled, as in a stable they may feel enclosed and unable to move. Owners should consult a qualified equine behaviourist if they have significant concerns about their horses response to fireworks.

 If youre hosting a fireworks display, avoid setting them off near horses, livestock or companion animals. Dispose of any debris and remnants of fireworks responsibly.
The first contract is a $215.7 million modification to a previously awarded contract, the cumulative value of which, if all options are exercised, could be more than $1 billion. Electric Boat will provide planning yard, design agent, engineering services and technical support for in-service submarines and submersible systems. The second contract is a $35.3 million cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for Reactor Plant Planning Yard services for the submarine fleet and Support Yard services for the Navy's Moored Training Ships.

"The shipbuilders of Electric Boat are proud to be a partner to the U.S. Navy, and continue to execute our mission to provide our sailors with the advantage that helps protect our Navy and our nation," said Kevin Graney, president of General Dynamics Electric Boat. "We continue to work to hire, train and develop future generations of shipbuilders as we continue to deliver the Virginia class of fast attack submarines and move toward full-scale construction of the Columbia class of ballistic missile submarines."



General Dynamics, headquartered in Reston, Virginia, is a global aerospace and defense company that offers a broad portfolio of products and services in business aviation; combat vehicles, weapons systems and munitions; IT services; C4ISR solutions; and shipbuilding and ship repair. General Dynamics employs more than 100,000 people worldwide and generated $39.4 billion in revenue in 2019. More information about Electric Boat is available at www.gdeb.com. More information about General Dynamics is available at www.gd.com .

SOURCE Electric Boat

Related Links

http://www.gdeb.com


Grown, cultivated, processed and packaged in Louisiana through a partnership between Ilera Holistic and Southern University's Agricultural Center, HOPE products are available exclusively through state-licensed MMJ pharmacies and available to all Louisiana patients and families through a doctor's prescription.

"After seeing the success of HOPE in Pennsylvania, we were determined to bring it to patients of Louisiana, a state where we exceed the national percentage of autism diagnoses--while at-risk and under-served patients still struggle to receive safe and effective healthcare," says Ilera Holistic CEO Dr. Chanda Macias. "Louisiana families deserve full access to all the benefits that cannabis medicine can provide, and we are thrilled to have HOPE in this market and available to everyone."

Scientific research shows cannabis to be safe and effective on patients (including children) to treat ASD, and patients who use it have reported significant improvement in quality of life, mood, and sleep--and less reliance on other medications.

HOPE is the brainchild of Erica Daniels, founder of Hope Grows for Autism, a nonprofit aimed at improving the lives of families affected by autism through research, education and advocacy of medical marijuana.

"The autism community in Louisiana is blessed to have a partner in Ilera Holistic Healthcare to bring HOPE to families affected by ASD," says Daniels. "Now more than ever, patients are struggling with the symptoms associated with autism. I am so thrilled that Ilera Holistic Healthcare is bringing HOPE to so many Louisiana patients who need it!"

"HOPE is another product with which we are proud to be associated," said Janana Snowden, director of the Southern Institute for Medicinal Plants at the Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center. "The work we do aims to not only provide valuable research but to also provide potentially beneficial and accessible treatments for symptoms due to conditions that thousands of people live with daily, like autism."

HOPE was formulated by Zelira Therapeutics a leading global therapeutic medical cannabis company with access to the world's largest and fastest growing cannabis markets. The company's focus is on developing branded cannabis products for the treatment of a variety of medical conditions including insomnia, autism and chronic non-cancer pain.

HOPE is gluten, dairy, soy and nut-free; scientifically formulated, lab tested, and pesticide free; and only available in the state of Louisiana at licensed cannabis pharmacies. HOPE will be available in two formulations: "HOPE1," a 1:1 THC:CBD tincture, and "HOPE2", a 5:1 THC:CBD tincture.

About Ilera Holistic Healthcare

Ilera Holistic Healthcare is a fully integrated medical marijuana company that fuses science and innovation to discover life-changing therapies. In Louisiana, we partner our world-class cultivation and extraction methods with Southern University's to expertly create and deliver consistent, high quality medicines. From seed and soil to dispensary shelves, Ilera is committed to providing a superior health and wellness experience.

SOURCE Ilera Holistic Healthcare
LANARKSHIRE, UK / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / An SBLC is a guarantee that assures any lenders that their client is credit worthy.In layman terms, an SBLC is a documented show of good faith that the customer has the means to pay back and has good credit standing.

An SBLC is basically a written obligation from an issuing bank to pay a sum on to a beneficiary on behalf of their customer in the event that the customer does not pay the beneficiary. An SBLC is in effect a bank guarantee, which is leased to a customer for a specific fee and a specific period of time usually one year and one day.

This letter can be used to increase confidence in newly established or lesser known companies. Any third parties that are looking to do business with these companies might require some form of assurance that they will be able to fulfil their end of the bargain. The SBLC should not have to come into effect, and should only be used as a last ditch effort. However, this doesn't mean that if it does come into effect, that the client will get away debt-free. On the contrary, the bank will pay what is owed (and the details of this will be written clearly in the agreement, alongside the terms of what constitutes as a broken agreement and when the bank is expected to foot the bill) and the client will have to pay the bank back.

It isn't purely monetary, as an SBLC can also be performative. For instance, an SBLC protects any interested parties to purchase from a developer. If the project isn't completed in the given timeframe, the customer can demand payment from the SBLC-issuing bank. This acts as an incentive for the developer to finish the project on time, to prevent paying penalties to the bank, and also it boosts the customer's confidence in buying from the developer in the first place as they will not have to worry about what might happen in the worst case scenario and the developer goes defunct.

SBLCs are created as a sign of good faith in business transactions to prove credit worthiness and repayment ability. The bank issuing the SBLC performs due diligence to ensure the credibility of the lessee before using the SBLC.

At Executive Financial Services Ltd, we are a leading SBLC/BG provider in the UK. With experience in handling projects of all sizes, we have the network, the resources and the expertise to meet all your Project finance requirements worldwide.

Company name: Executive Financial Services Ltd

Address: 57 Ayr Road, Ravenstruther Lanark, Lanarkshire ML11 8NN United Kingdom.

Website: https://www.executivefinancialservicesltd.com

Email: info@executivefinancialservicesltd.com

Phone number: +44 7427275879

SOURCE: Executive Financial Services Ltd

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/608233/Executive-Financial-Services-Ltd-Your-One-Stop-Shop-for-Genuine-Reliable-SBLCBG
Wildlife species continue to be threatened, some with extinction, by the continuing wildfires occurring in the western US.





Wholesale Destruction in Multiple States

The wildfires this year have so far been the worst wildfire season on the West coast within the last seven decades, with around three million hectares in Washington, California, and Oregon burned.

The fires killed 35 people and maybe more, devastated structures, and caused pollution which threatened millions.

The Threat to Wildlife Species

Scientists fear the damage to wildlife species as well as ecosystems. Habitat loss can make small populations and species with limited ranges extinct. Burned ecosystems may not rebound from the changing climate, which may cause permanent changes in the landscape ecology.

READ: Botswana: Mystery of Mass Elephant Die-off Solved





Rabbits

Researchers do not yet know how many wildlife species are in danger. Biologists estimate that the wildfires already killed 50% of Washington's pygmy rabbits, which are endangered species. Their habitats are the sagebrush flats which were destroyed. Scientists think that roughly 50 of these rabbits, the smallest in North America, are still alive.

Birds

The flames are also believed to have decimated 30 to 70 per cent of Washington's sharp-tailed grouse and sage grouse, who are also dependent on the sagebrush flats.

Meanwhile, according to RMRS or Rocky Mountain Research Station wildlife biologist Vicki Saab, in California and the Pacific North-west, the white-headed woodpecker's pine forest habitat is also in danger. The same is true for the oak and pine forests of northern Mexico and Southwest US, home of Grace's warbler.

New Mexico has also seen the smoke of the fires may cause thousands of scattered dead birds, which researchers speculate. They may have succumbed to respiratory ailments. Alternately, they may have also left their feeding grounds before accumulating enough fuel for use in their migratory journey.

In the 2014 California wildfires, the endangered spotted owl's habitat has been seen with abandoned nesting areas, according to RMRS biologist Gavin Jones and University of Wisconsin biologist M. Zachariah Peery. They also observed that around 22% of the nesting sites remained empty in 2015. This year's fires could worsen their plight further.

Jones says the owls avoided burned areas more than 100 hectares, perhaps due to their need for tree cover to serve as protection, shade, and perches. According to Peery, more massive and more severe fires threaten their remaining habitat.

READ ALSO: One-Fourth of All Reptiles, Many Endangered, Can Be Bought Online





Plants

According to Colorado State University in Fort Collins fire ecologist Camille Stevens-Rumann, plants having only small ranges are more vulnerable to the fires, such as California's Coulter pine tree. She adds that California has many endemic plants that can also be threatened.

Positive Effects

There are also positive effects on the fires. Some species thrive with fire. A lot of the old-growth forests originated from severe and large fires in past centuries, according to University of Washington wildfire ecologist Brian Harvey.

Burned areas also serve as habitat for many bird species, such as the black-backed woodpecker, which eats beetle eggs laid on burned trees-also, the white-headed woodpecker nests in areas that have newly opened.

Nutrients in the soil are also released by fires, causing shrub growth which attracts invertebrates which birds like the mountain bluebird and dusky flycatcher eat.

The Problem of Climate Change

Researchers, however, are worried that burned forests might not recover from the drier and warmer climate, making it harder for ecosystems to rebound. UW fire ecologist Monica Turner also says that just a little additional drought will already spark more fires. This climate crisis, she says, is a multiplier of ecosystem and species threats.

Meanwhile, wildlife species continue to be threatened, with no immediate solution to the wildfires in the western US being seen.

READ NEXT: Amazon Fires in Pantanal Threaten Jaguars and Reserves





Check out more news and information on Wildlife Species on Nature World News.
Founder Gerard Ghazarian will be president of the new board of directors

AMSTERDAM, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Ruud (Rudiger) Wanck is Candid's new CEO as of 1 October 2020. Candid is the largest independent marketing and advertising platform in the Netherlands. Headed by Ruud Wanck, former Global CEO of GroupM Connect, a new organizational structure will be created to expand both nationally and internationally.

CEO and founder Gerard Ghazarian will be leading the new board of directors. In his position as president, he will focus on Candid's merger and acquisition strategy (M&A).

Candid is growing rapidly which is a result of several acquisitions such as media agencies Stroom and M2Media. In 2018, Candid acquired the Digital Agency Group including digital media, data and advertising agencies like Online Company, Havana Harbour and 6Circles. Last year, daily dialogues and XXS joined the marcom platform. "Because of COVID-19 new acquisitions had to be put on hold, but with Ruud I will be working alongside an experienced CEO who will enable us to accelerate even more," says Ghazarian. "COVID-19 disrupts the entire market and affects Candid equally; being agile and able to look forward are essential skills in these challenging times."

Wanck held several global leadership positions at GroupM over the past years, working from Amsterdam, London and New York. GroupM is part of the world's largest communication company WPP including media agencies Mindshare, MediaCom and Wavemaker. Ruud's career involved a number of roles at GroupM, from Chairman in the Benelux, Chief Digital Officer for EMEA, Global Digital COO to Global CEO at GroupM Connect, where he headed thousands of digital experts working across 60 countries in the field of marketing, data and technology. Three years ago, he co-founded an investment company participating in various start-ups and scale-ups. He will stay on as a co-founder in addition to his role as CEO at Candid where he has also joined as a partner. "What Gerard and his team have built over the past few years and the way Candid positions itself is impressive. We will now be taking the company into the next stage of growth, both in the Netherlands and worldwide."

As a result of COVID-19 there will be lasting changes in consumer behaviour and business operations. Advertisers will focus on digital transformation and related data and technology strategies more than ever. "The market had a digital reset. Marketing, distribution and sales are inextricably connected in a digital economy. This will be our main priority and focus when further developing Candid, our services and our M&A strategy," says Wanck.

For more information or interview requests with Ruud Wanck or Gerard Ghazarian please contact Mirelle van Weldam at Candid. Mobile: +31 (0)6 5144 9655, email: mirelle.van.weldam@candidplatform.com.

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1294929/Ruud_Wanck_CEO_Candid.jpg

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1294930/Ruud_Wanck.jpg
With the help of ESO's Very Large Telescope (VLT), astronomers have found six galaxies lying around a supermassive black hole when the Universe was less than a billion years old. This is the first time such a close grouping has been seen so soon after the Big Bang and the finding helps us better understand how supermassive black holes, one of which exists at the centre of our Milky Way, formed and grew to their enormous sizes so quickly. It supports the theory that black holes can grow rapidly within large, web-like structures which contain plenty of gas to fuel them.

"This research was mainly driven by the desire to understand some of the most challenging astronomical objects -- supermassive black holes in the early Universe. These are extreme systems and to date we have had no good explanation for their existence," said Marco Mignoli, an astronomer at the National Institute for Astrophysics (INAF) in Bologna, Italy, and lead author of the new research published today in Astronomy & Astrophysics.

The new observations with ESO's VLT (https://www.eso.org/public/teles-instr/paranal-observatory/vlt/) revealed several galaxies surrounding a supermassive black hole, all lying in a cosmic "spider's web" of gas extending to over 300 times the size of the Milky Way. "The cosmic web filaments are like spider's web threads," explains Mignoli. "The galaxies stand and grow where the filaments cross, and streams of gas -- available to fuel both the galaxies and the central supermassive black hole -- can flow along the filaments."

The light from this large web-like structure, with its black hole of one billion solar masses, has travelled to us from a time when the Universe was only 0.9 billion years old. "Our work has placed an important piece in the largely incomplete puzzle that is the formation and growth of such extreme, yet relatively abundant, objects so quickly after the Big Bang," says co-author Roberto Gilli, also an astronomer at INAF in Bologna, referring to supermassive black holes.

The very first black holes, thought to have formed from the collapse of the first stars, must have grown very fast to reach masses of a billion suns within the first 0.9 billion years of the Universe's life. But astronomers have struggled to explain how sufficiently large amounts of "black hole fuel" could have been available to enable these objects to grow to such enormous sizes in such a short time. The new-found structure offers a likely explanation: the "spider's web" and the galaxies within it contain enough gas to provide the fuel that the central black hole needs to quickly become a supermassive giant.

But how did such large web-like structures form in the first place? Astronomers think giant halos of mysterious dark matter are key. These large regions of invisible matter are thought to attract huge amounts of gas in the early Universe; together, the gas and the invisible dark matter form the web-like structures where galaxies and black holes can evolve.

"Our finding lends support to the idea that the most distant and massive black holes form and grow within massive dark matter halos in large-scale structures, and that the absence of earlier detections of such structures was likely due to observational limitations," says Colin Norman of Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, US, also a co-author on the study.

The galaxies now detected are some of the faintest that current telescopes can observe. This discovery required observations over several hours using the largest optical telescopes available, including ESO's VLT. Using the MUSE (https://www.eso.org/public/teles-instr/paranal-observatory/vlt/vlt-instr/muse/) and FORS2 (https://www.eso.org/public/teles-instr/paranal-observatory/vlt/vlt-instr/fors/) instruments on the VLT at ESO's Paranal Observatory in the Chilean Atacama Desert, the team confirmed the link between four of the six galaxies and the black hole. "We believe we have just seen the tip of the iceberg, and that the few galaxies discovered so far around this supermassive black hole are only the brightest ones," said co-author Barbara Balmaverde, an astronomer at INAF in Torino, Italy.

These results contribute to our understanding of how supermassive black holes and large cosmic structures formed and evolved. ESO's Extremely Large Telescope, currently under construction in Chile, will be able to build on this research by observing many more fainter galaxies around massive black holes in the early Universe using its powerful instruments.

###

More information

This research was presented in the paper "Web of the giant: Spectroscopic confirmation of a large-scale structure around the z = 6.31 quasar SDSS J1030+0524" to appear in Astronomy & Astrophysics (doi: 10.1051/0004-6361/202039045).

The team is composed of M. Mignoli (INAF, Bologna, Italy), R. Gilli (INAF, Bologna, Italy), R. Decarli (INAF, Bologna, Italy), E. Vanzella (INAF, Bologna, Italy), B. Balmaverde (INAF, Pino Torinese, Italy), N. Cappelluti (Department of Physics, University of Miami, Florida, USA), L. Cassara (INAF, Milano, Italy), A. Comastri (INAF, Bologna, Italy), F. Cusano (INAF, Bologna, Italy), K. Iwasawa (ICCUB, Universitat de Barcelona & ICREA, Barcelona, Spain), S. Marchesi (INAF, Bologna, Italy), I. Prandoni (INAF, Istituto di Radioastronomia, Bologna, Italy), C. Vignali (Dipartimento di Fisica e Astronomia, Universita degli Studi di Bologna, Italy & INAF, Bologna, Italy), F. Vito (Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy), G. Zamorani (INAF, Bologna, Italy), M. Chiaberge (Space Telescope Science Institute, Maryland, USA), C. Norman (Space Telescope Science Institute & Johns Hopkins University, Maryland, USA).

ESO is the foremost intergovernmental astronomy organisation in Europe and the world's most productive ground-based astronomical observatory by far. It has 16 Member States: Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom, along with the host state of Chile and with Australia as a Strategic Partner. ESO carries out an ambitious programme focused on the design, construction and operation of powerful ground-based observing facilities enabling astronomers to make important scientific discoveries. ESO also plays a leading role in promoting and organising cooperation in astronomical research. ESO operates three unique world-class observing sites in Chile: La Silla, Paranal and Chajnantor. At Paranal, ESO operates the Very Large Telescope and its world-leading Very Large Telescope Interferometer as well as two survey telescopes, VISTA working in the infrared and the visible-light VLT Survey Telescope. Also at Paranal ESO will host and operate the Cherenkov Telescope Array South, the world's largest and most sensitive gamma-ray observatory. ESO is also a major partner in two facilities on Chajnantor, APEX and ALMA, the largest astronomical project in existence. And on Cerro Armazones, close to Paranal, ESO is building the 39-metre Extremely Large Telescope, the ELT, which will become "the world's biggest eye on the sky".

Links

Research paper - https://www.eso.org/public/archives/releases/sciencepapers/eso2016/eso2016a.pdf

Photos of the VLT - http://www.eso.org/public/images/archive/category/paranal/

For scientists: got a story? Pitch your research - http://eso.org/sci/publications/announcements/sciann17277.html

Contacts

Marco Mignoli

INAF Bologna

Bologna, Italy

Tel: +39 051 6357 382

Email: marco.mignoli@inaf.it

Roberto Gilli

INAF Bologna

Bologna, Italy

Tel: +39 051 6357 383

Email: roberto.gilli@inaf.it

Barbara Balmaverde

INAF Torino

Pino Torinese, Italy

Email: barbara.balmaverde@inaf.it

Colin Norman

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, USA

Email: norman@stsci.edu

Barbara Ferreira

ESO Public Information Officer

Garching bei Munchen, Germany

Tel: +49 89 3200 6670

Cell: +49 151 241 664 00

Email: pio@eso.org
A prison Governor is investigating how fillet steaks, rib roasts, boneless leg of lamb, prosciutto and expensive chocolate were purchased with taxpayer's money for Irish Prisons.

The process began after the Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG), which investigates how public money is spent, discovered that thousands of euro in public funds was spent luxury foods for prison kitchens.

The C&AG reports to the powerful Dail Public Accounts Committee which is chaired by Laois Offaly Sinn Fein TD Brian Stanley.

The findings are reported in its Report on the Annual Accounts of the Public Services 2019. A 22-page section Catering and ancillary services in prisons is dedicated to spending in jails.

The C&AG has said the food was purchased for cookery classes for prisoners but the Irish Prison Service has not been able to say why the food was procured.

In most prisons, the type of food bought for home economics courses was similar to what was used to prepare prison meals.

A C&AG initial review has found that: "fillet steaks, rib roasts, boneless leg of lamb, prosciutto and expensive catering chocolate."

It says an investigation by the Governor of an unnamed prison is underway into how 9,302 was spent in 2018 and 2019. The reason given for the spending was "to support the provision of cookery classes to prisoners".

"It has not been possible from the work training activity returns to Prison Service headquarters to be definitive on what activity was taking place or if there were official events catered for using some of the products listed," says the C&AG.

It's understood that controls have since been put in place.

The Irish Prison Service spent 8.2m on food for its prisoner population in 2019.

It says the cost of food per day for prisoners ranged from 4.54 per inmate in Wheatfield Prison to 7.27 per inmate in Portlaoise Prison.
Lyon have officially signed Lucas Paqueta from AC Milan for 19million and a percentage of his sell-on fee.

Paqueta agreed terms on Tuesday and successfully completed his medical at the club on Wednesday before putting pen to paper in the evening.

The confirmation of the deal has handed Arsenal a boost in their pursuit of Houssem Aouar as the French side have a replacement for the outgoing midfielder.

Lyon have signed Lucas Paqueta from AC Milan for 19m and a percentage of his sell-on fee

Paqueta, who moved from Flamengo to Milan in January 2019 for 35m plus bonuses, will be looking to better he personal stats during his time at Lyon.

The midfielder only managed three assists in 44 competitive games for the Rossoneri last season.

The news has provided Mikel Arteta's Arsenal with a boost in their pursuit of Houssem Aouar

Aouar scored nine goals and provided 10 assists in 41 outings for Rudi Garcia's side last season

The news of Lyon's new signing will have provided a boost to Arsenal as they look to sign Aouar to become to missing piece to link Arsenal's attack.

Aouar has been linked with a potential 45million swoop to the Emirates Stadium but Arsenal and Lyon have been unable to agree a fee.

Aouar scored nine goals and provided 10 assists in 41 outings for Rudi Garcia's side last season, and was instrumental in them reaching the Champions League semi finals.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 10:00:17|Editor: huaxia

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ATHENS, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- Multilateralism has yet to improve when it comes to inter-state cooperation in cases of serious global challenges like the current COVID-19 pandemic, a Greek expert has said.

From a systemic point of view, multilateralism is a normative repercussion of the rise of multipolarism after the end of the incomplete period of unipolarity that arrived immediately after the end of the Cold War and the collapse of the Soviet Union, Spyros Litsas, professor of international relations theory at the University of Macedonia in northern Greece, told Xinhua in a recent interview.

From an economic point of view, multilateralism is a positive result that is offering an opportunity to the global economy to be more competitive and effective, said the expert, who is also visiting professor of international relations and strategy at the Supreme Joint War College of the Greek Armed Forces.

"However, I strongly believe that multilateralism has yet to improve in the area related to inter-state cooperation to face grave global situations, such as the current COVID-19 pandemic," he noted.

If multilateralism may function as a procedure that will enhance inter-state collaboration against rogue elements, state and non-state actors, then the 21st century may prove to be more stable than the previous one, according to Litsas.

"If this inter-state collaboration may move to other areas too, such as technology, global infrastructure, or green policies, then humanity has a chance to survive the challenges ahead," he said.

For the Greek expert, the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road Initiative is a positive step toward adding to multilateralism.

"Any kind of an economic initiative that has the capacity to create new jobs and can contribute to the economic growth of a region is beneficial. The Silk Road Initiative, especially after the beginning of the Greek economic crisis, proves to be a positive step," he said.

"However, it is important to see hi-tech investments instead of low-productivity investments in order for the Greek economy to meet its full potential. As long as the Maritime Silk Road Initiative preserves its economic and cultural character, then it adds to the region's multilateralism," he said.

China's major investment into Greece's largest port, Piraeus, by COSCO Shipping coincided with the outbreak of the Greek economic crisis. In 2009, COSCO's subsidiary Piraeus Container Terminal S.A. took over the management of the port's container terminal, while in 2016, COSCO acquired a majority stake in the port's operator, Piraeus Port Authority S.A., in an international tender.

Many third-party observers say China-Greek win-win collaboration over the past decade has produced remarkable results, with the Piraeus port project, for example, massively improving the port's image and serving as a "Dragon's Head" for the new Maritime Silk Road in Europe.

"I think there are more things that can be done in Piraeus to increase the economic performance of container handling. It has to be said that the port has the capacity to be further developed, while it must also be modernized in many aspects, with the production of a technologically advanced infrastructure to be a necessity," the professor said. Enditem
Rochester Institute of Technology is preserving a rare collection of Hebrew wood types used by the Jewish-American press at the turn of the 20th century. The collection will be made accessible online for students and scholars in advance of a digital and print publication.

RIT Cary Graphic Arts Collection will print, digitize, and publish its collection of 30 different wood types of the Hebrew alphabet with a grant from the Rochester Area Community Foundation's Historic Preservation, Restoration, and Literature Fund. The foundation is supporting the initial preparatory work needed to create a digital and print monograph of the Hebrew wood types, including typesetting, printing, cataloguing and digitizing the collection. Work on the project begins in December.

"This collection is one of the most extensive private non-Latin wood type collections in the United States (outside of the Hamilton Wood Type & Printing Museum), and its significance crosses the boundaries of graphic arts teaching, as the type represents the development of the immigrant press in the United States," said Amelia Hugill-Fontanel, associate curator at the Cary Graphic Arts Collection housed in RIT Libraries.

European Jewish refugees arrived in the United States in the late 19th/early 20th centuries and created a thriving Jewish-American press in major cities like New York, Philadelphia, and Chicago. The Hebrew wood types in the Cary Collection include sets from one of the longest-running Yiddish daily newspapers still in publication, The Forward.

"One of the missions of the Cary Graphics Arts Collection is to tell the history of American printing through artifacts, typefaces, and printing presses, but the story wouldn't be complete without referring to other languages and scripts," Shani Avni, Ismar David Visiting Assistant Curator at the Cary Graphic Arts Collection. "The immigrants who came here spoke in different languages and they are an integral part of the story."

Letterpress printing fell out of favor in the mid-20th century with the advent of lithographic printing and wood type alphabets were cast aside. The hands-on printing method has gained new interest among the maker culture, Fontanel said, and has spawned "informal blogs and printers' communities; digital font revival foundries; institutional collections; and working printing collections at private presses, book arts centers, and universities across the country."

Over the past six years, Cary Graphic Arts Collection staff and members of the RIT student-run program "Adopt-a-Font" cleaned and restored thousands of characters in the Hebrew wood type collection, using archival preservation practices. Now, the Rochester Area Community Foundation is helping the project enter its next phase.

Hugill-Fontanel and Avni will lead a team of RIT student technicians and a research-and-design assistant co-op student hired for the project. Hugill-Fontanel, who is also a master printer, will typeset and print the alphabets using letterpress printing presses in the Cary Collection, and Avni, a Hebrew design expert, will analyze and catalog the print specimens. RIT student technicians will digitize the Hebrew alphabet specimens and publish the digital-type images online in RIT Libraries' Digital Collections repository, making them freely accessible to the public. The student research and design assistant will digitally trace several of the Hebrew alphabets' designs for use in desktop publishing applications and archive the wood fonts.

Avni will share her research about the Hebrew wood type project at the joint conference of the American Printing History Association and Hamilton Wood Type & Printing Museum, AWAYzgoose, Nov. 5-8, online. She will present "Back to the Shtetl: The Prospects of Hebrew Wood Type."

The Cary Graphic Arts Collection is one of the nation's premier libraries of graphic communication history and practices. Along with paper-based archives, the Cary maintains a unique technology collection comprised of a functional letterpress printing workshop with 30 presses and a full suite of printing equipment including metal and wood type. This working archive is used to teach graphic reproduction processes and typography, enhancing the curricula for students of history, art, design, and printing.

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Linkedin News Desk (Reuters) Berlin, Germany  Thu, October 1, 2020 10:10 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4863101 2 World Germany,coronavirus,COVID-19,pandemic,SARS-CoV-2,virus-corona Free

Germany declared regions in 11 European countries to be areas where there was an elevated risk of exposure to the novel coronavirus, while existing warnings about parts of Belgium were extended to cover the entire country.

In its list published late on Wednesday, the Robert Koch Institute for infectious diseases also declared the whole of France with the exception of the Grand Est region to be risk zones, the whole of Iceland, as well as Wales and Northern Ireland to be risk zones.

Risk zones were also declared in Estonia, Ireland, Lithuania, Romania, Slovenia, Hungary and Croatia. Such declarations, which result when the prevalence of coronavirus infections exceeds 50 per 100,000 population over a week, are typically followed by the Foreign Ministry issuing a travel warning.

The latest warnings, a blow to hopes that a swift revival of tourism could give the continent's pandemic-struck economies a boost, came as officials across Europe warned that a second wave of the virus was imminent.

Germany, traditionally Europe's largest source of tourists, has warned against travel to the rest of the world since March, when the pandemic first struck Europe in earnest, but the warnings were lifted for the European Union and countries with close ties to it in June.
KAMPALA  Legendary saxophonist and Jazz artist Isiah Katumwa is arguably one of the most talented saxophone players in Uganda to date.

The maestro who has mastered the art in the saxophone over the years has organized a virtual concert in collaboration with the Uganda US embassy to mark Ugandas Independence as well as entertain his fans.

In the concert, renowned Katumwa who is behind several successful popular music projects revealed that it will seek to make Ugandans aware of how beautiful their country is and also to entertain his fans.

Prior to this concert, Katumwa has dropped a new song dubbed Muna Uganda in which he heaps praises on the Pearl of Africa whilst praising her nature, climate, physical features but most notably her hospitable people.

The singing saxophonist believes that Ugandans have spent so much time and resources on politics and forgotten to praise their countrys beautiful nature and people.

Muna Uganda is written and recorded by Katumwa himself in Luganda, a local language widely spoken in Uganda today. The song was produced by Samkad.

The Virtual celebrations will also have performances in other sectors besides music including; dance, fashion, deejaying, comedy, film and many more.

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Tuesday night saw the US Presidential debate between current President Donald Trump and Democratic Presidential nominee, Joe Biden. The debate, to put it lightly, was complete chaos. Just minutes in, the debate turned into an all-out and personal brawl as they raced through issues from a Supreme Court vacancy to the coronavirus pandemic to the US health care system.

While the debate, and everything that happened during the debate, became points of discussion on social media, there was one thing that we couldnt help but notice - not a single member of Trumps family was wearing a mask. During the debate, the First Lady, Melania sat in the audience with Donald Trump Jr., Tiffany Trump, Ivanka Trump, and Eric Trump. But all of them sat through the entire debate without wearing a mask.

Yet, they wore one while posing for social media. Ivanka Trump posted a selfie on Twitter, where all of them can be seen sporting face coverings. It turns out, they wore masks when they arrived at the venue but eventually took it off when they sat down, which went against the guidelines for the debate.

Case Western Reserve University and Cleveland Clinic, which is where the debate was held, had earlier published a list of guidelines to ensure safety could be assured in the times of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The guidelines mentioned that there would be distancing between the seats and that it would be important to incorporate personal health screening and safety measures."

A Bloomberg reporter who was covering the event gave live updates on the matter. The reporter, Tyler Pager, tweeted, Everyone in Bidens side of the hall is wearing a mask. More than half on Trumps side, including his four children, are not wearing masks. According to the Cleveland Clinic, its a requirement that all guests wear masks."

He followed it up with another tweet, Melanie Trump just walked in wearing a mask. She removed it as she sat down."

Melanie Trump just walked in wearing a mask. She removed it as she sat down. Tyler Pager (@tylerpager) September 30, 2020

He also later tweeted that a Cleveland Clinic doctor had walked over to the Trump clan to ask them to put on their masks. They apparently refused, as per what the doctor told Pager. A Cleveland Clinic doctor with masks just walked up to a number of unmasked members of the audience on Trumps side of the room and asked them to put on masks. She told me they refused to take one and wear them," he tweeted.

A Cleveland Clinic doctor with masks just walked up to a number of unmasked members of the audience on Trumps side of the room and asked them to put on masks. She told me they refused to take one and wear them. https://t.co/rNUFjLfUEf Tyler Pager (@tylerpager) September 30, 2020

In fact, this isnt too surprising given the fact that Trump has never been too fond of masks either. On multiple occasions, the US President has been spotted without one, despite every health organisation in the world recommending it. During the debate too, Trump took a sly jibe at Biden by saying that he always has a mask on. Well, to be fair, it is a global pandemic.
One of the aspiring Presidential candidate of the Peoples National Convention (PNC) for the 2020 elections, Reverend (Rev) Samuel Agyei-Debrah has complained about the removal of his name from the delegates list for the partys conference at Koforidua.



Rev Agyei-Debrah who is a member of the National Executive Council(NEC) and the Council of Elders of the party said since 1992, he voted in the Eastern Region and did not understand why this time round his name was removed from the voters register of the party.



He is one of the three persons contesting to be the flag bearer of the party for the 2020 elections.



Reacting to the complaint of Rev Agyei-Debrah, Alhaji Umar Isaaka, Eastern Regional Chairman of the party explained that the regional executives of the party had no hand in the preparation of the delegates register of the party.



He said the constituency chairmen of the party of every constituency sent the names and particulars of the delegates from their constituencies to the national headquarters of the party in Accra and out of those information, the party prepared their list for every region.



Alhaji Isaaka said this time round, the constituency chairman of the party for Akuapem South, where Rev Agyei-Debrah comes from did not include his name.



He said other aspirants of the party touring the region came to the conference in Eastern Region and tried to vote but they were refused because their names were not in the delegates register of the party for the region.

Source: GNA









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Limited space for spectators may also be available in the courtroom by seating them in the traditional jury box, which will not be used by jurors during the trial.

Only one of the five circuit courtrooms in Chesterfield will be used for jury trials. Colonial Heights has only one circuit courtroom.

The presiding judges will decide when breaks will be taken during jury trials, although one break every 90 minutes to two hours is planned to permit the cleaning of high-touch surfaces and to allow jurors to wash their hands, according to the plan.

During breaks, the jurors will retire to a large assembly room  not the small, traditional jury room at the rear of each courtroom  which will allow them to appropriately social distance themselves. Jurors also will deliberate their verdict in the assembly room.

The default standard during a jury trial will be that all participants, including jurors, wear face masks, and clear plastic face shields also will be provided to jurors, attorneys, defendants and witnesses each day. However, masks may be removed in limited, exceptional circumstances, according to the plan.
An entire classroom in a Shelburne elementary school has been told to self-isolate following an assessment of a positive COVID-19 case by Wellington-Dufferin Guelph Public Health (WDGPH).

The Upper Grand District School (UGDSB) reported the positive case at Glenbrook Elementary in Shelburne on Friday (Sept. 25). Since the confirmed positive case of coronavirus, Public Health has directed the UGDSB to have the one class self-isolate.

In an email to Free Press, UGDSB communications and community engagement officer Heather Loney said, As part of its investigation into a positive case, Public Health performs a risk assessment for any contact.

All individuals determined to be at a high risk of exposure are directed to self-isolate and recommended to be tested, said Loney. Due to the positive case identified at Glenbrook Elementary School, Public Health has directed one class to self-isolate. Public Health is working with those individuals to provide guidance on what further actions they should take.

The UGDSB and Glenbrook Elementary have not disclosed which classroom has been asked to self-isolate, and whether the positive case was a staff member or student.

The school, which is still open while the single class isolates, is the first within the UGDSB to have a confirmed positive case of COVID-19.

Glenbrook Elementary Principal Tim Murray released a letter on Sunday (Sept. 27) to parents, guardians, and staff members. In the letter he says that custodial staff did a thorough cleaning and disinfection of the entire school on Sept. 25 (the date of the confirmed case), as part of enhanced cleaning protocols.

Dr. Nicola Mercer, Medical Officer of Health and CEO of WDGPH says the case is a reminder that COVID-19 is still present within the region.

This is an important reminder that we all must wear a mask, practice good hand hygiene, maintain physical distancing and keep our groups and gatherings small, said Dr. Mercer. Fewer cases in our community means fewer cases in our schools.

The decision on who should isolate, and who are considered high risk contacts is based on an assessment by Public Health.

Each time we manage a case we do a risk assessment to determine high risk contact and reach out to them so they can self-isolate and get tested, said Public Health spokesperson Danny Williamson.

We do not report publicly high risk contacts, as once in touch with Public Health they are no longer a risk to the public or school community. If they, in turn, become a positive case then we contact high risk contact of the new case.

According to Williamson an outbreak is when there are two positive cases that are linked (one positive case caused another).

Although the positive coronavirus case is the first within the UGDSB, it is not the first within a school in Dufferin County.

Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board (DPCDSB) reported a positive case at St. Benedict Elementary school in Orangeville on Sept. 22. The school has been listed as open and with no closed classes.
Chris Wallace said he was sad after hosting the first presidential debates between Donald Trump and Joe Biden earlier this week, describing the event as a terrible missed opportunity.

The Fox News anchor who moderated the debate on Tuesday night said he had no way of knowing beforehand how the president would routinely interrupt him and Mr Biden, adding that he had never been through anything like this in an interview with the New York Times.

Following the debate, Mr Wallace was met with a glass of champagne and greeted by Fox News CEO Lachlan Murdoch at an airport in Cleveland. The journalist said he didnt feel much like celebrating however, and flew home to Annapolis, Maryland.

Since then, he told the newspaper he had been involved in a certain amount of soul-searching while recalling what will undoubtedly go down as one of the most contentious presidential debates in American history.

Im just sad with the way last night turned out, he said. I never dreamt that it would go off the tracks the way it did.

He added: Ive read some of the reviews. I know people think, well, gee, I didnt jump in soon enough  guess I didnt realize  and there was no way you could, hindsight being 20/20  that this was going to be the presidents strategy, not just for the beginning of the debate but the entire debate.

From the very first minutes of the debate, Mr Trump began interjecting and talking over his Democratic opponent.

Mr Wallace clearly struggled to gain control of the discussion, which devolved at many points into a barely-comprehendible shouting match between the two candidates for both major parties.

I hate to raise my voice, but why should I be different than the two of you? a frustrated Mr Wallace said at one point.

As he attempted to reign in the president, the moderator said: I think the country would be better served if we allowed both people to speak with fewer interruptions. I'm appealing to you, sir, to do that.

Since this weeks debate sparked controversy and set off a discussion about whether moderators should have the ability to turn off a candidates microphone, the Commission on Presidential Debates has announced it will reassess how to move forward with event-formatting for the next scheduled debates of this campaign season.

Mr Wallace said he doesnt see the point in cutting off microphones, however, and added that he felt he did the best he could given the circumstances.

As a practical matter, even if the presidents microphone had been shut, he still could have continued to interrupt, and it might well have been picked up on Bidens microphone, and it still would have disrupted the proceedings in the hall, he said. Generally speaking, I did as well as I could, so I dont have any second thoughts there.
Representational picture

The first batch of houses for migrant labourers in cities who have returned to their native places following the COVID-19 induced lockdown may be readied by April 2021 while construction of new units will take another two years, Hindustan Times reported.

According to the report, nearly 75,000 vacant, government-funded complexes would be converted into affordable rental housing complexes (ARHCs) in the first phase of the scheme. These units have been built under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM), Rajiv Awas Yojana (RAY) and the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). The first two schemes were conceptualised by the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government.

States which have the most number of unoccupied houses built under JNNURM and RAY include Maharashtra (32,202); Delhi (29,245), Gujarat (8,654), Rajasthan (7,045), Uttar Pradesh (5,923) and Haryana (2,545), it said.

The AHCR scheme, approved by the Union Cabinet in July, aims to cover around 300,000 beneficiaries with an expected expenditure of Rs 600 crore.

"It (ARHCs) focuses on providing comfort and utilising governments unutilised stock. These vacant government accommodations, built at an investment of nearly Rs 2,000 crore, were lying useless. Hence, it is an important utilisation of the nations resources. We have also decided that these houses, given to the migrants, will not be affected by existing rental laws," the report quotes Amrit Abhijat, Joint Secretary, Housing For All, as saying.

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

Another official said that under model one of the scheme, the government will lease out existing houses and over 1.8 lakh such houses have been identified. Since they may be in poor condition, it will take another six to seven months to get them ready, the official added.

"They will be the first ones to be ready and should be taken up by March to April 2021. We have identified 75,000 beneficiaries," the official said.

"Under model two we will look at construction of new complexes, but that would take another two years depending on the funding available, land availability, local surveys, etc. The construction time should be around 12-14 months. To begin with 2.25 lakh houses have been planned," the official said.
DALLAS, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- One Network Enterprises, a global provider of multi-party business networks for autonomous supply chain management, today announced that it has been awarded a $61.9 million contract from the USAF for its Item Master Logistics Capability Initiative (IMLCI). The Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract enables One Network and its partner, Alion Science and Technology Corporation, to support the Air Force Material Command's logistics initiatives. The award is the result of a competitive acquisition process by the USAF.

The contract provides for commercial off-the-shelf software licenses and related technical support services. Work will be performed at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, and is expected to be completed September 2025. The first objective for the new project will establish a full Item Master Catalog and Parts Provisioning capability across the USAF, and enable Item of Supply access (such as a National Stock Number (NSN)) in a modern global network platform.

Since 2008, One Network Enterprises has supported mission critical capabilities for multiple agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense, including the U.S. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and current work with the USAF, in conjunction with their teams and allies all over the world.

"We are proud to be selected by the USAF for this important work in further improving mission readiness and supporting the war fighter," said David Stephens, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Government Programs, One Network Enterprises. "Both One Network and Alion will be helping the USAF to configure and model new Master Data Management business processes to support their portfolio of logistics initiatives. The award extends One Network's presence within the USAF and across the Department of Defense, and as our multi-party federated Master Data Management capabilities are deployed for the USAF, it strengthens our ability to provide even more value to our customers in the future."

About One Network Enterprises

One Network is the intelligent business platform for autonomous supply chain management. Powered by NEO, One Network's machine learning and intelligent agent technology, this multi-party digital platform delivers rapid results at a fraction of the cost of legacy solutions. The platform includes modular, adaptable industry solutions for multi-party business that help companies lower costs, improve service levels, and run more efficiently, with less waste. One Network offers a PaaS solution and developer tools that allow organizations to design, build, and run multi-party applications. Leading global organizations have joined One Network, helping to transform industries like Retail, Food Service, Consumer Goods, Automotive, Healthcare, Public Sector, Defense, and Logistics. Headquartered in Dallas, One Network also has offices in Japan, Europe, and India. For more information, please visit www.onenetwork.com.

About Alion Science and Technology Corporation

Solving some of our nation's most complex national security challenges, Alion works side-by-side with our Defense and Intelligence communities as we design and deliver advanced engineering solutions to meet current and future demands. We go beyond the superficial and dive deep into the root of the engineering complexities and bring innovation to reality. With global industry expertise in Big Data, Analytics, and Cyber Security; Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning; Live, Virtual, and Constructive Training; Electronic Warfare and C5ISR; and Rapid Prototyping and Manufacturing, Alion delivers mission success where and when it matters most. To learn more, visit www.alionscience.com.

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Former Vice President Joe Biden labeled President Donald Trump's combative debate performance in Cleveland, Ohio, last night a "national embarrassment," during the first leg of his whistle stop train tour through the Midwest on Wednesday.

"The President of the United States conducted himself the way he did, I think it was just a national embarrassment. But look, I just hope that the American people, those undecided voters, try to determine [if] each of us has as an answer for their concerns and allows us to actually speak," Biden told reporters standing in front of a chartered Amtrak train in Alliance, Ohio.

Biden is embarking on a roughly 200-mile whistle stop train tour on Wednesday through the battleground states of Ohio and Pennsylvania, pushing his economic agenda while hoping to appeal to voters that have strayed from the Democratic Party in recent years and delivered Donald Trump the White House in 2016.

MORE: 5 key takeaways from Joe Biden and Donald Trump's 1st presidential debate

In Alliance, Biden also blasted Trump over his "dog whistle to white supremacy," referring to the president's failure to disavow white supremacists in last night's debate -- a moment that has garnered intense attention following the clash between Biden and Trump on stage.

Trump was prompted to condemn the "Proud Boys," a group involved in recent incidents of violence and unrest, but instead told the group to, "stand back and stand by."

"My message to the Proud Boys and every other white supremacist group is cease and desist. That's not who we are. This is not who we are as Americans, Biden said Wednesday, adding that he believes Trump will leave office if he loses the election because he has "no alternative."

Pressed on his participation in the next two debates, slated for next month in Miami, Florida, and Nashville, Tennessee, respectively, Biden said he is "looking forward to" them, but expressed hope that candidates will be allowed to answer questions free from the interruptions that defined last night's conversation.

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"I just hope there's a way in which the debate commission can control the ability of us to answer the question without interruptions. I'm not going to speculate on what happens in the second or third debate," Biden said.

PHOTO: Democratic Presidential Joe Biden speaks during the first presidential debate in Cleveland, Sept. 29, 2020. (Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images)

Shortly after Biden's remarks, the Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD) announced that it is considering changes to the debate format to allow for a more "orderly discussion."

"Last nights debate made clear that additional structure should be added to the format of the remaining debates to ensure a more orderly discussion of the issues. The CPD will be carefully considering the changes that it will adopt and will announce those measures shortly," a CPD statement released Wednesday afternoon read.

The Democratic nominee, long-known for his affinity for Amtrak, also commented on Tuesday nights debate during the tours kickoff event in Cleveland, Ohio.

"Last nights debate, and this election, its supposed to be about...you and all the people I grew up with in Scranton, and people in Youngstown and Claymont, Delaware, and all the people who make a difference," Biden said standing outside at a socially-distanced event just feet away from his newly-minted campaign train.

"Does your president understand at all what you're going through? What so many other people are going through? The question is does he see you where you are and where you want to be? Does he care?" Biden asked rhetorically.

Biden also took aim at the president on the issue of taxes, after the New York Times reported Trump paid only $750 dollars in federal taxes in 2016 and 2017.

"He doesn't pay his fair share in taxes. He says that makes him smart," Biden said of Trump. "What does that make you...and millions of other hard-working Americans, decent people who pay our taxes? Are we the suckers? Are we stupid because we go by the rules?" Biden said.

MORE: Trump doesn't denounce white supremacists and militias during debate

Bidens one-day train tour will take him across Ohio and Pennsylvania, two states that show the former vice president above 50% in recent state polling. The former vice president will target areas Democrats are hoping to maintain or win back in November, with stops in Alliance, Ohio, and Pittsburgh, Greensburg and Latrobe, Pennsylvania, along with two events in Pennsylvania: one in New Alexandria and at a drive-in in Johnstown.

Stark County, Ohio, the site of the first stop on the tour, backed former President Barack Obama by over five points in 2008, but sided with Trump by 17 points in 2016. Cambria County, Pennsylvania, where Wednesday's tour concludes, narrowly backed Obama in 2008 but has swung significantly back to the GOP since then, siding with Trump by roughly 37 points in 2016.

MORE: Fact-checking Trump and Biden during 1st 2020 presidential debate

Biden signaled on Wednesday morning that the tour will home in on the economic message he has sought to cultivate in recent weeks, casting the election as a choice between his hometown of Scranton, Pennsylvania, and communities like it across the country, and the monied interests of Park Avenue in New York City.

"Folks, this election is a choice between Scranton and Park Avenue values, between Cleveland and Park Avenue values, between Alliance and Park Avenue values," Biden told a small, socially distanced crowd of supporters and reporters Wednesday morning.

Biden calls Trump's debate performance a 'national embarrassment' as he kicks off train tour originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Hospital capacity is diminishing in the state and in Bismarck as active cases continue to climb -- they rose statewide by 29 from Wednesday, to 3,690. Burleigh County continues to lead the state, with 684. Morton County has 245.

Hospitalizations statewide rose to 106, up 17 from Wednesday. The number was one higher than the previous record, set on Monday and matched on Tuesday.

Sanford Health and CHI St. Alexius employees have brought concerns about diminishing hospital capacity to the Burleigh-Morton COVID-19 Task Force, which has been working for nearly two months to address the spike of cases in the region. The state health department's public COVID-19 dashboard lists numbers of licensed beds available statewide, but not all of those beds are staffed.

As of Tuesday, there were only 15 available beds including two intensive care unit beds at Bismarck's two hospitals, according to information state officials supplied to the Tribune. Sanford was opening a new unit with 14 total beds, including six designated for intensive care patients.

Burgum said the state will be updating its COVID-19 dashboard to include daily bed capacity information for at least the larger hospitals, and Were working to clarify the difference between licensed beds in the state and those that are staffed, he said. Because its one thing to have a licensed bed, but its also important that we have the staffing.

Daily data

Six of the newly confirmed deaths were in the Bismarck-Mandan region: a Burleigh woman in her 80s, two Morton women in their 80s and one in her 90s, and Morton men in their 60s and 80s. Burleigh now has 50 pandemic-related deaths and Morton 33.

The health department also reported the deaths of a 50-year-old Stutsman County man, a 60-year-old Divide County man and an 80-year-old Richland County man. All of the new victims had underlying medical conditions, according to the state. They brought the statewide pandemic death total to 256.

Health officials on Thursday reported 373 new COVID-19 cases including 44 in Burleigh and 14 in Morton, raising the pandemic total to 22,218. There have been 18,272 recoveries statewide and 884 hospitalizations.
Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel of Sweden appeared loved-up as they attended the Maxim Theatre in Stockholm today.

The smiling couple visited the private film screening theatre which has been struggling to stay open for business due to the 50-person gathering limit currently in force in Sweden.

As they approached the establishment, the happy pair beamed as they strolled arm in arm along the streets of the country's capital.

Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel of Sweden appeared loved-up and posed for pictures as they attended a theatre in Stockholm, Sweden, which has been struggling to stay open for business due to coronavirus restrictions

The happy couple smiled widely as they stood outside the Maxim Theatre before they entered. Princess Victoria wore an impressive all-red ensemble and her husband Prince Daniel donned a dark grey double-breasted suit

Crown Princess Victoria, 43, wore a beautiful black and plum ensemble and her husband Prince Daniel, 47, donned a dark grey double-breasted suit with a deep blue tie.

The Swedish royal cut an elegant figure, wearing a printed midi-length dress which she paired with a purple jacket and matching tassel earrings.

To finish off the impressively co-ordinated look, she added some pointed high heels in a similar shade and carried a clutch bag to finish it off.

In her signature style, the King's eldest daughter wore her hair slicked back into a neat ponytail for the occasion.

As they strolled through the streets of the capital towards the theatre, the couple beamed as they walked arm in arm. Princess Victoria cut an elegant figure in her printed black and burgundy dres

To complete her look, she also wore a pair of matching high heels, some tassel earrings in a similar shade and even coordinated her clutch bag to match her burgundy themed outfit

They smiled widely for pictures outside the venue before taking a look around the theatre, with its customary pull-down red seats.

Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel, who used to be her personal trainer, are parents to Princess Estelle, eight, and Prince Oscar, four.

The mother of two is the eldest daughter of King Carl Gustaf 74, and Queen Silvia, 76, who have two other children - Prince Carl Philip, Duke of Varmland, married to Princess Sofia, Duchess of Varmland, and Princess Madeleine, Duchess of Halsingland and Gastrikland, married to Christopher O'Neill.

During their visit, the couple took a look around the private theatre which hosts film screenings but has been struggling to stay in business in recent months as Sweden cracks down on the number of people gathering
New Delhi: Senior Indian and Chinese diplomats met on Wednesday in virtual mode as part of their 19th meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) where it was once again decided to implement agreements for disengagement of troops of both nations at all the friction points along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and to strengthen communication, especially between the ground commanders of both armies.

Both sides felt that the next (seventh) round of the meeting of Senior Commanders should be held at an early date so that both sides can work towards early and complete disengagement of the troops along the LAC in accordance with the existing bilateral agreement and protocols, and fully restore peace and tranquillity. Both sides also agreed to continue to maintain close consultations at the diplomatic and military level.

The Indian delegation was led by the Joint Secretary (East Asia) from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) while the Director General of the Boundary & Oceanic Department of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs led the Chinese delegation.

Observers feel that while complete de-escalation in the Ladakh sector will probably remain a pipe-dream despite the onset of the harsh winter there, given the heavy troop deployment on both sides and the trust deficit, it is nevertheless a positive sign that the two countries continue to engage in talks both at a diplomatic and military level.

In a statement on the meeting, the MEA said, The two sides reviewed the current situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the India-China border areas and had frank and detailed discussions on the developments since the last meeting of the WMCC on 20 August, 2020. The two sides attached importance to the meetings between the two Defence Ministers and the two Foreign Ministers held earlier this month. They also noted that the agreement between the two Foreign Ministers should be sincerely implemented to ensure disengagement at all the friction points along the LAC.

The MEA further said, In this regard, the two sides positively evaluated the outcome of the sixth Senior Commanders meeting on 21 September. They emphasized the need to implement the steps outlined in the joint press release issued after the last meeting of the senior commanders so as to avoid misunderstandings and to maintain stability on the ground. In this context, the need to strengthen communication, especially between the ground commanders, was emphasized by both sides.
Bad things do sometimes happen in Philadelphia elections. Usually the people responsible are caught and prosecuted, if a crime occurred. Other incidents become the stuff of legend. As in all mythology, legends often dont stand up well to scrutiny.

President Donald Trump misled a national television audience Tuesday with his most recent conspiracy theorizing, wrapping up his first debate with Democratic nominee Joe Biden with a false claim that poll watchers were improperly barred from polling places in Philadelphia earlier that day.

Bad things happen in Philadelphia, Trump said. In reality, his campaign currently has no poll watchers certified as required by state law. And there are no actual polling places open, just new satellite election offices for requesting and submitting mail ballots.

There are irregularities in any election, and thats why we have law enforcement, thats why we have the Department of Justice, thats why we have the District Attorneys Office, Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney said in an interview Wednesday. Philadelphia is in the modern era. Your system of voting in all of the neighborhoods in the city are dependable and fair and honest.

Trump has a long history of falsehoods, exaggerations, and unsubstantiated allegations that help to fire up his supporters in Pennsylvania and elsewhere, but have little to do with facts.

Lets examine some of those facts.

The citys most infamous election fraud case came during a 1993 special election for a state Senate seat in Northeast Philadelphia. Bogus absentee ballots were filled out to benefit the Democratic nominee, William Stinson, who received 79% of the overall vote. A very public investigation, including reports from The Inquirer, followed. A federal judge threw out the ballots, ruling that election officials had illegally distributed many of them to campaign and Democratic Party workers. Stinson was removed from office as a result.

Philadelphias most viral moment of election controversy didnt involve fraud. It came in the 2008 presidential election, when two members of the New Black Panther Party, one holding a nightstick, stationed themselves outside a North Philadelphia polling place. One Republican poll watcher called in a complaint while another shot video that received plenty of play on Fox News, thanks to efforts by Mike Roman, a former Republican ward leader from Northeast Philadelphia who is now a Trump campaign official. Roman on Tuesday tweeted the false claim about poll watchers Tuesday that Trump seized on.

No actual voters complained in 2008 about the New Black Panther Party members, who left when police showed up. Still, Trump his campaign team spoke often about the incident in 2016.

 READ MORE: Bad things happen in Philadelphia, Trump says at debate, renewing false claim about poll watchers

Another canard pushed by Trump in 2016 was the notion that Mitt Romney, the 2012 Republican nominee for president, had been cheated in Philadelphia because he received no votes in 50 city voting divisions. Fifty sounds like a lot, absent the context that city had 1,687 divisions that year. So Romney received no votes in just 3% of the divisions. Inquirer reporters canvassed those divisions after the 2012 election and found no Republicans complaining about uncounted votes. Joe DeFelice, now a Trump administration official, was chairman of the citys Republican Party in 2016. He and the Republican ward leaders for those divisions helped debunk Trumps claim.

Some claims debunk themselves. During the 2016 election, conservative political provocateur James OKeefe posted a short video of him in a car trailing a van that OKeefe described as a pastor bus, bussing people around to the polls in Philadelphia."

Were going to be releasing video here today showing people doing some improper things, bussing people around," OKeefe said in the clip, which was a teaser for a longer video on voter fraud. But what OKeefe alleged the pastors were doing  transporting voters to the polls  is legal. And the full video OKeefe ended up releasing on voter fraud was actually filmed in Indiana, not Philadelphia.

Philadelphia had an actual case of election fraud in 2017, during a special election for a state House seat in North Philadelphia. Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, charged polling place workers in one location with intimidating voters, casting bogus ballots, and falsely certifying results. The investigation stemmed from complaints filed with the Philadelphia District Attorneys Office. The Democratic nominee won that race with 73.5% of the vote, so the illegal acts were unlikely to have had much impact on the results.

Another case of election fraud went public this year when a South Philadelphia judge of elections pleaded guilty to federal charges for taking bribes to inflate votes for Democratic candidates. Dominic DeMuro was a Democrat until just before his guilty plea. Trumps campaign and the Republican National Committee used the case to again claim voter fraud is a widespread problem. The U.S. Attorneys Office in Philadelphia has charged another Democrat, former U.S. Rep. Michael Ozzie Myers, with bribing DeMuro. Myers served three years in prison after he was convicted in the 1970s Abscam investigation into public corruption.

Kenney said the fact that Myers and DeMuro were prosecuted proves that elections in Philadelphia are generally secure, and not the other way around.

There are so many mechanisms to deal with [fraud], and I point to the fact that Mr. Myers and Mr. DeMuro were caught," he said.

 READ MORE: Mayor Kenney says Philly is preparing for voter intimidation after Trumps debate comments

Election experts say its no coincidence that Republicans frequently target large, diverse cities like Philadelphia for voter fraud allegations. In her book The Politics of Voter Fraud, Lorraine C. Minnite, a political scientist at the University of Rutgers-Camden, wrote that the use of baseless voter fraud allegations for partisan advantage has become the exclusive domain of Republican party activists.

Fraud allegations today typically point the finger at those belonging to the same categories of voters accused of fraud in the past  the marginalized and formerly disenfranchised, urban dwellers, immigrants, blacks, and lower status voters, Minnite wrote.

Trump in 2016 also complained often about the overturning of Pennsylvanias Voter ID law, which was passed in 2012 but shot down by the courts two years later after its Republican proponents couldnt produce evidence of the widespread voter fraud they claimed necessitated people showing state-approved ID to cast a ballot. A state judge ruled they had offered only a vague concern about voter fraud.

Thats a common refrain to rebut oft repeated but seldom substantiated voter fraud theories. Shapiro, who has challenged the Trump campaign this year in court to provide proof of voter fraud in Pennsylvania, has been telling the president to put up or shut up in television interviews.

Conservative groups that drive voter fraud narratives have also repeatedly claimed, without evidence, that people illegally vote in the name of people who have passed away in Philadelphia. Thats because the Pennsylvania Election Code sets a standard for how voters who have died or moved away can be purged from the rolls.

Voters are labeled inactive if they havent cast a ballot for five years and then also dont respond to a notice mailed by election officials. They can be removed from the rolls after that only if they dont vote in the next two general elections in which federal offices are on the ballot. So it can take seven to eight years to purge a dead voter.
Jaipur, Oct 1 : Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Thursday condemned the Uttar Pradesh police and termed the detention of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra as "illegal".

Taking to Twitter, Gehlot said, "I strongly condemn the way UP police has detained Congress leader Rahul Gandhi ji & Priyanka Gandhi ji illegally. They misbehaved with Rahul ji. This is undemocratic & brutal use of force. UP BJP govt's attempt to harass opposition leaders like this is reprehensible." "UP BJP govt's actions smacks of political vendetta. They are acting in a dictatorial manner," he said.

Rahul and Priyanka were detained near Yamuna Expressway when the duo, after being stopped on the highway, decided to march to Hathras to meet the family of the UP Dalit woman who was gang raped and died in a Delhi hospital earlier this week.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Residents of long-term-care homes in Ontario were at much greater risk of dying during the first wave of COVID-19 compared to their counterparts in British Columbia because B.Cs health-care system was better prepared and responded more effectively than Ontarios, according to a new study.

The study published Wednesday in the Canadian Medical Association Journal examines both pre-existing factors that made a clear difference as well as actions taken during the pandemic. Researchers found that after adjusting for the difference in population, there were about four times as many deaths in Ontario care homes compared to B.C. As of Sept. 10, Ontario recorded 1,817 deaths in long-term care, while B.C. had 156.

There is no single circumstance that led to the drastic difference in outcomes, but rather a confluence of factors, said Dr. Irfan A. Dhalla, a vice president and physician at Unity Health Toronto, and one of the studys authors.

Its almost certainly not just all about the response during the pandemic, Dhalla said. We found that there were some pretty striking differences between the long-term-care system in the two provinces that existed even before the pandemic.

Actions such as Ontario calling in the military to assist some care homes illustrates how stark the difference in outcomes was between the two provinces, Dhalla said.

I dont think anybody could have imagined that we would be calling in the military. And the fact that we had to do that just shows how badly we failed, Dhalla said.

The study notes that prior to the pandemic, B.Cs care system was in better shape than Ontarios. There was better co-ordination in B.C. between homes, public health systems and hospitals, allowing for a faster and more effective response.

Provincial governments determine policies, funding and standards at care homes. The study found on average, combined funding per resident per day was higher in B.C. ($222) than in Ontario ($203). Most of that funding is used to pay staff.

The study did not compare staff wages but it said some estimates suggest before the pandemic B.C. residents received more daily hours of direct care (3.25) than those in Ontario (2.71) and that there is a relation between staffing levels, care hours and higher rates of infection.

One clear difference between the provinces is in the use of shared rooms. Prior to the pandemic, residents in Ontario were more than twice as likely to shared a room, at 63 per cent versus 24 per cent in B.C. A recent study in Ontario showed that residents living in shared rooms are more likely to contract COVID-19.

There is evidence different business models result in different outcomes. In Ontario, 58 per cent of care homes are managed on a for-profit basis, compared to 34 per cent in B.C. The study says evidence suggests that on average, for-profit homes deliver inferior care compared to non-profits. A preliminary study found an association between for-profit status, the extent of COVID-19 outbreaks and the number of resident deaths.

Its also clear the frequency of inspections at homes can make a difference. Both provinces require annual inspections of care homes. But the study says in late 2018, Ontario transitioned to a risk-based framework where narrower inspections are conducted in response to critical incidents and complaints.

In 2019, inspections were carried out mostly in response to complaints or critical incidents. As a result, only nine of 626 long-term-care homes in Ontario received a comprehensive inspection that year.

Actions taken during the pandemic also made a significant difference. The study says leadership and communication was better in B.C., with health officials and elected leaders delivering consistent messages. In Ontario, elected leaders and government bureaucrats sometimes conveyed conflicting messages in separate briefings, although the report does not elaborate.

The study suggests orders limiting staff to working in a single home were effective in reducing the spread of COVID-19. B.C. announced such a policy on March 26. Ontario did not do so until April 14.

In total, Ontario long-term-care homes saw almost 6,000 COVID cases compared to 466 in B.C.

Differences in how the two provinces approached infection prevention and control also contributed to contrasting outcomes. Starting with the first outbreak in B.C. on March 7, the province sent specialized health teams with expertise in infection control to all homes with outbreaks. Ontario did not start working with public health units and hospitals to form similar teams until April 15.

In B.C., the threshold for an outbreak at a long-term-care home was a single case among residents or staff. Ontario did not revise its definition of an outbreak until April 15.

B.C. was also ahead of Ontario in screening asymptomatic residents at care homes with outbreaks, starting in March, whereas Ontario did not do so until April 22.

B.C. was also faster in requiring that everyone wear a mask in care homes. They issued this order on March 25; Ontario did not follow suit until April 8.

The study offers many lessons for governments, public health agencies and care homes to learn from, Dhalla said.

Among them: regular and unannounced inspections are critical to ensuring plans are being followed correctly. Staff should be restricted to working at one site to avoid spreading the virus. And governments must consider if their public health systems are organized in a way to provide the most effective delivery of care.

Sometimes people are looking for a simple answer  I dont think anybody can say confidently, its that one thing that made a difference, Dhalla said.

Read more about:
UPDATE: Shia LaBeouf appeared in court on Thursday, May 26, and was ordered to complete a judicial diversion program within 12 months, after which his misdemeanor charges of battery and petty theft stemming from a June 2020 confrontation would get dropped and he would avoid jail time.

According to a spokesperson for the Los Angeles City Attorney's Office, the actor must complete at least one therapy session a week, during which he would undergo anger management; wear a SoberLink device, continued random alcohol testing and continue to participate in a 12-step program to remain sober; avoid using force or violence; not own or possess any weapons and turn over any to law enforcement if he does; remain 100 yards away from the victim and have no contact with them; remain 100 yards away from the location of the confrontation and obey all laws and orders of the court.

A source close to LaBeouf confirmed the information to E! News. The actor has not commented publicly about the case. He is due back in court in August.

______

Last November, the actor pleaded not guilty to two misdemeanor charges of battery and petty theft stemming from a June 2020 confrontation with an unidentified man, TMZ reported.

Shia LaBeouf's Best Roles

According to a complaint filed in September 2020, LaBeouf is accused of willfully and unlawfully using "force and violence upon" the person and driving away with the same individual's personal propertya hat worth less than $950.

The complaint states the alleged incident took place "on or about" June 12, 2020. However, details of what may have led to the purported events are unclear. According to TMZ, which broke the news and cited law enforcement sources in its report, there were no major injuries to either person.

This isn't LaBeouf's first run-in with the law. In 2017, for instance, he was arrested in Savannah, Georgia for public drunkenness, disorderly conduct and obstruction. According to Reuters, he pleaded guilty to one count of obstruction later that year. The report stated he also pleaded no contest to the disorderly contest charge and not guilty to the public drunkenness charge. As for his sentencing, the news organization stated LaBeouf was ordered to complete a year of probation, anger management counseling, a drug and alcohol evaluation and 100 hours of community service.

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Shia LaBeouf

Last December, the actor's ex-girlfriend and Honey Boy co-star FKA twigs filed a sexual battery civil lawsuit filed against him. The actor has not been charged with a crime stemming from this case and has denied all their allegations.

Reporting by Alli Rosenbloom

(This story was originally published on Oct. 1, 2020 at 1:52 p.m. PT)
Donald Glover opened up about his sexuality in a new interview. Gregg DeGuire/FilmMagic

Donald Glover revealed in a new interview that he struggled to define and come to terms with his sexuality.

Speaking to "I May Destroy You" creator Michaela Coel, Glover said he was unsure of his sexual orientation during his college years.

"I had friends who asked, 'Are you gay?' And Id be like, 'I sort of feel like I am because I love this community,'" he added.

Glover also told Coel that he "never felt completely safe in just one place" due to experiences with racism growing up.

Donald Glover revealed in a recent interview that he's struggled to define and come to terms with his sexuality.

"There is security to being identified," Glover said while speaking to "Chewing Gum" and "I May Destroy You" creator Michaela Coel for British GQ. "'I'm a straight white male' or 'I'm a gay Asian dancer'  you can find community easily and safely."

Glover told Coel in a Zoom-held conversation that he was unsure of his sexual orientation when he was younger.

"Most of my college years were me being like, 'I don't know what I like,'" he said. "I had friends who asked, 'Are you gay.' And I'd be like, 'I sort of feel like I am because I love this community.'"

"I always was trying to figure out, 'Am I weird for not wanting to label it?'" the "Atlanta" star said of his sexuality. "Yet, also, I never felt completely safe in just one place."

Donald Glover also writes and performs music under the name Childish Gambino. Charles Sykes/Invision/AP

According to Glover, one of the main reasons why he felt unsafe was due to experiences with racism growing up, including a time when one of his white friends used the n-word in front of him.

"It was really intense," Glover said of that experience. "But I was in high school, so I didn't really have the emotional tools to really be like, 'Oh, I understand,' because I had no experience."

Video: How white savior films hurt Hollywood

Coel also opened up about her experiences with racism and microagressions. The actress gave one example that made her uneasy: when some of her non-Black friends discuss how much they love Black men.

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"Whenever I hear it, my brain starts thinking, 'You've grouped a whole people and you've made a decision on them. Can't you just 'love' that Black guy at the bar? Why can't you like whatever his name is? Why come with the whole group thing?'" Coel told Glover.

According to the "I May Destroy You" creator, despite the problematic tendencies of her white friends, Coel is still able to appreciate her friends' other qualities. Glover agreed.

"It is OK. That's what a lot of people don't realize. It's gonna be OK. Good can come from bad and bad from good," he said. "Life is not 'The Avengers.' It isn't good versus evil. It's all together and we're still figuring it out."

Glover is the writer and creator of FX's "Atlanta." Production on the show's third and fourth seasons was recently delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

This post has been updated to replace the term "sexual preference" with the scientifically accurate term "sexual orientation."

Read the original article on Insider
Hugh Jackman has bared all in a hilarious new advertisement for Australian footwear brand R.M. Williams.

The Hollywood star, 51, wore nothing but a pair of short black boots as he starred in the label's new TV campaign.

In the video, Hugh is first seen sitting in an office chair and explaining why he loves the boots.

Baring all! Hugh Jackman, 51, is NUDE in a new campaign for Australian footwear brand R.M.Williams

'I'm actually in love. They're great. They're amazing,' the actor said before spreading his legs open on the desk.

The brand's representative then tells Hugh: 'While we appreciate how literally you've taken the clause that stipulates you can only wear R.M. Williams.

'I want you to know that you are allowed and we highly encourage you to wear other clothes.'

Exposed! The Hollywood star wore nothing but a pair of short black boots as he starred in the label's new TV campaign

Hugh appears to ignore the advice and then starts explaining why he loves wearing the boots.

'I mean look at this, it's one beautiful piece of leather, beautiful stitching and they're comfortable,' he said.

'I mean the balls of my feet just feel like they've died.. Seriously they've changed my life,' he added.

'They're great!' In the video, Hugh is first seen sitting in an office chair and explaining why he loves the boots

Hugh then begins to stand up to leave the room but stops to compliment how comfortable the chair is.

'A new chair? Honestly you should sit in this,' the Wolverine star said while moving around in his seat.

'Everything at R.M. Williams is just so comfortable,' he ended.
Next Insurance has expanded its workers compensation offering into 24 additional states, including Arizona, Connecticut, South Carolina, Indiana and Virginia.

The digital small business insurer said that the coverage is now available in 30 states overall, increasing its workers compensation reach in the U.S. to more than half the country overall.

By expanding workers compensation to more than half of the country, Next Insurance is taking another important step in our journey to become the one-stop-shop for all small businesses, said Sofya Pogreb, chief operating officer of Next Insurance, said in prepared remarks.

Nexts workers compensation expansion follows news disclosed Sept. 23 that the company has raised $250 million in new venture capital financing  $631 million to date.

Nexts workers compensation coverage starts at $14 per month. The insurers online platform gives business owners a way to obtain an instant quote and explore coverage options. The policies cover medical expenses, loss of income, retraining, permanent injury, and survivor benefits.

Nexts workers compensation expansion includes the states of: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Connecticut, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, and West Virginia. The coverage was already available in Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Nevada and Texas. Plans call for expanding the coverage into more states in 2021.

Next Insurance also sells small business coverage for general liability, professional liability and commercial liability and has plans are to add new products in 2021 in accounting, construction, fitness and retail.

Source: Next Insurance

Topics Workers' Compensation Talent Virginia
Fay Hoh Yin thought long about how she would want to die after being diagnosed with incurable stage IV T-cell lymphoma in 2014.

She and her two children, Monona and Duncan, experienced a dress rehearsal of what her death might be like in late 2015 when her body started to fail her. At the time, doctors believed it was Fays cancer killing her, but, in reality, her heart was so weak that a liter of fluid accumulated in one lung.

I was ready to die, Fay told The Independent. I had all the horrible symptoms; I couldn't breathe and I had no energy at all. It was very painful.

That was when she first looked into Compassion & Choices, a nonprofit that advocates for end-of-life options, such as medical aid in dying, for terminally ill patients.

Fay lived in Delaware at the time, where medical aid in dying was not allowed. But the nearby state of Vermont offered the option for mentally capable people given a terminal prognosis of six months or less.

Vermonts bill, similar to eight other states and District of Columbia that offer medical aid in dying in the US, requires someone to have two physicians sign off that they have a terminal prognosis and are mentally capable. The patient can then receive a prescription for a drug, which they most self-administer, that would allow them to end their life before their illness ultimately kills them.

Suffering was one of Fays greatest fears when it came to thinking about her death because she watched her own mother experience a painful death in the years prior.

I had seen my own mother suffer terribly for two years, and so that made a strong impression on me, she said. To this day, I cannot think of the happy times easily.

Then Fay found herself in a similar position, with her own two children watching on as she struggled with her health and mortality. All she knew was that she didnt want to experience similar suffering as her mother or have her children witness her in severe pain.

I was very terrified of that, she said about the suffering. Not so much of a death, but just the last almost non-human living of just dragging from day to day.

She started researching medical aid in dying and even considered establishing residency in Vermont to utilise the states law in the fall of 2015 with the help of her daughter, Monona.

But Fays health went on the decline and she ended up in the hospital struggling to breathe. That was when she asked her daughter to stop everything in terms of saving her life.

We activated her Do Not Resuscitate [D.N.R] order, Monona told The Independent.

Then a hospice nurse discovered it was actually Fays heart condition, not her cancer, that was killing her at that moment, and doctors were able to provide adequate treatment so she could recover. But that period of time stuck with her, and she used the years following to research medical aid in dying and advocate for the option in other states.

I dont see any honour in me suffering

Fay moved into Mononas Brooklyn, New York, apartment following the dress rehearsal of her death while she still battled her cancer diagnosis and heart condition.

In New York, the legislature has introduced its Medical Aid in Dying Act for multiple years. In 2020, the act had its highest chance of passing through the legislature, but the coronavirus pandemic influenced lawmakers to pause all legislative practices unrelated to Covid-19. Fay and Monona were scheduled to meet with New York lawmakers in April 2020 about why they advocated for medical aid in dying, but that was all cancelled due to the pandemic.

When Fay spoke to The Independent in February 2020, she had been to the ER four times in the last two months, with other times at hospital spent undergoing chemotherapy for her stage IV T-cell lymphoma. Symptoms she experienced included extreme tiredness, neuropathy, and shortness of breath.

I'm constantly adjusting to the fact that I'm losing a little bit of myself, she said, and so I don't think I can live independently anymore.

While she enjoyed her life to a degree, Fay still wanted medical aid in dying as an option for herself for the moment when her suffering grew to be too great.

If you have children that really care for you and love you for you, it is a terrible, terrible punishment for them to watch you die, she said. I'm losing a little bit of everything every day. I can accept that. I can still enjoy life towards a degree. And I really enjoy being with [my family]  but when the pain gets too much and there's no hope, I really don't see anything honourable in fighting.

Fay remained adamant that she wanted to live her life with her family by her side, but she wanted to do it on her terms with the option to choose medical aid in dying at the end.

I want to live; I do want to live, she said. But I just don't see any honour in me suffering with [my family] watching totally helpless. I should have the freedom to decide how I want to go.

Monona added: If you saw how hard we are trying to keep mom here and with us  not surviving but really living  This is an extension of the love were showing to preserve her life. Its not at odds. I just think people dont get it because they havent had to make these really hard choices.

At best, Fay, who described herself as a realist, believed she would live another two years with her terminal illnesses.

There is a definite lifespan, she said, and I think I've fought enough because sometimes I'm so tired, just, you know, managing my body.

Fay died on 20 July at the age of 88 with her family by her bedside in Brooklyn.

Her death came just over two months before this article would be published, and at a time when both Delaware and New York had medical aid in dying bills moving through each state legislature.

Im carrying on her message

When speaking to Monona following her mothers death, she said Fay advocated for medical aid in dying into her final hours.

Mom really never lost her frustration at being thwarted, Monona said. Like she always, always said, It's not fair that I can't end my suffering. And she was very frustrated she couldnt tell lawmakers directly.

She said the words Compassion & Choices in the last few hours of her life, she added, referencing the nonprofit Fay shared her story with when advocating for medical aid in dying. She was mad that she had been denied [this option]  So I'm carrying on her message.

This is not my message. She talked about it two hours before she died, and she felt angry that lawmakers were not letting her end her suffering.

Fay stopped chemotherapy treatment for her cancer at the end of February. Then the pandemic hit and her family worried about three things that could kill Fay: terminal cancer, heart failure, and Covid-19.

So, in an effort to figure out her next steps, Fay looked into other options that would be available to her at the end of her life.

Sandwiched in between Delaware, where Fay owned a home, and New York, where she lived with Mononas family, was New Jersey, which had passed its New Jersey Aid in Dying Act in August 2019. The accessibility of the state influenced Fay to ask Monona to research establishing residency in New Jersey.

She did not want to leave things to chance, Monona said. She didn't want to arrive at a crisis without some kind of safety net in place. And so that's how we approached this whole period.

Monona went as far as researching funeral homes and New Jersey physicians who might take Fay on as a patient. But Fay ultimately decided she did not want to die away from their family in Brooklyn.

She said it would just be too sad for the two of us to leave the rest of the family, move to New Jersey, and wait [for her] to die, Monona added.

Other end-of-life options were considered, but those too fell through.

We were left with no means of legally ending her life, she said, and so the pair instead sought advice from palliative care doctors about the final steps of Fays life.

Fay, who underwent multiple palliative blood transfusions during this time period, stopped them on 8 July. Hospice care was then brought into their home on 12 July.

Suffering was still a concern for Fay, but the only extreme suffering she experienced was during the final hours of her life.

What I learned from not having medical aid in dying is that you need wonderful hospice care, Monona said. Like, yes, my mom, to her dying day, she wanted a prescription to end her own life. She wanted that and she was angry that she couldn't have that. But, at the same time, I would say she died peacefully.

Excellent hospice support, palliative care doctors, and palliative medicine were, to Monona, what people needed to have what might be considered a good death, something not everyone can access.

You kind of need everything to have the kind of death my mom had, and that was extremely important to us as survivors because I'm a lot less destroyed than I was the first time she almost died, she said. We just surrounded her with care, and she had that proverbial dying at home peacefully, surrounded by your loved ones.

Opponents of medical aid in dying have cited religious reasons for being against the act. Other concerns include a terminal patient taking the prescription to end their life before all treatments are exhausted, or the chance a patient is coerced by doctors or family members to take the prescription.

Nine states and the District of Columbia legally allow medical aid in dying, and the laws incorporate safeguards to protect a terminal patient and their rights. These laws require a patient to have a six-month terminal prognosis, be mentally and physically capable to self-administer the medication, and approval from two state physicians.

She was the most alive person

Monona described the four-and-a-half years with her mother as a beautiful time after she almost died in 2015. In her final months, Fay still found a way to use humour when interacting with her children, son-in-law, and granddaughter.

She had this glow of a person who is leaving this world fulfilled, Monona said.

But fighting for end-of-life options for Fay, especially in her last couple months of life, cut into the time they couldve spent doing other activities together.

It's a sacred thing when people die, she said. [Fay] got there on her own steam, but we spent umteen hours wrestling with her fear. It just wouldnt have been the case if she knew, I have an insurance policy. If I am in tremendous pain, I will have the insurance policy  that would have transformed the last four or five months of her life.

It's not like she was looking for an easy way out, Monona added. She was looking for full agency. She wanted to be the captain of her own ship and she wanted palliative care.

Although Fay actively advocated for medical aid in dying as an end-of-life option, both she and her daughter emphasised how she wanted to live for as long as she could.

The person in my life who wanted [medical aid in dying] the most was the most alive person, Monona said.

[Opponents] like to treat this as some casual decision, she added. No, its really the opposite of casual. Its a very considered decision by people who have fought valiantly and they deserve to have peace at the end.
BRUSSELS  For nearly two years, Belgium has been without a formal government, leaving a country that was already divided by language and politics to endure a pandemic with lame-duck caretakers wielding emergency powers.

A fragile coalition government finally took power on Thursday, ending one of the longest political stalemates in the Western world. Cobbled together from seven political parties, the partnership keeps a growing far-right movement at bay for now and should allow the country to finally pass a budget and consider a Covid-19 recovery package.

But the transition, which is set to be formally adopted by lawmakers this weekend, is not without risk. The governing coalition is now so large that any disagreement has the potential to topple it. And ushering in a new government means forcing out the ministers who have overseen the pandemic response  at a time when infections and hospitalizations are rising.
Farhan Akhtar Dismisses A Media Report

The actor shared a screenshot of a TV news debate on his Twitter page and wrote, "For the record: I have no person named Keshav working at mine. Unsurprisingly, another lie by a fake news channel famous for peddling lies. Please stop being so gullible. Just because a guy screams it out on TV doesn't make it true."

Earlier, Farhan Had Called Sushant's Demise 'A Tremendous Loss To The Film Industry'

While speaking with India Today, the actor had said, "It is one of the greatest tragedies that I can think of in recent times. It is a tremendous loss to the fraternity. It enrages you when you see that his family is not given the opportunity to breathe. Theories are being spun about why he did it. This is not the time for that. Let some time pass. Right now its speculation from abetment to murder to every crazy thing. Everyone suddenly knew what he thought, his journey and everything about him. What followed is a circus. Be kind, be more inclusive, be aware, reach out, but right now everyone is either got a sword out or holding a shield. It's ugly. We should remember him for his great work and talent, mourn the fact that we lost somebody who had great potential."

Farhan Akhtar Had Condemned Rhea Chakraborty's Media Trial

The actor had shared a tweet about the right to a fair an impartial trial' by Amnesty India and written, "Media coverage that surmise and denigrate her character and behaviour, serve no purpose. Condoning these practices distances the victims from justice and the accused from a fair trial and hampers our progress towards gender equality."
Professor Paul Cosford is the emeritus medical director of Public Health England

One of Britain's top health officials has revealed he now supports assisted dying after developing incurable lung cancer.

Professor Paul Cosford, the emeritus medical director of Public Health England, said he would like the option of an 'extra vial of morphine' in his final days.

The 57-year-old has only another one or two years to live and described the current ban on assisted dying in the UK as 'inhumane'.

Writing in the British Medical Journal, Professor Cosford said his biggest fear around dying is the 'lack of control' he will have in his final days.

He wrote: 'The option of a prescription to allow me, in my last days, to bring forward the end of my life is simply not there.'

He added that he sometimes hoped he died from Covid-19 instead, as it would be a 'quicker and kinder option'.

Professor Cosford said: 'My biggest fear around dying is the lack of control. The lack of ability, if all becomes too much, to advance the end a little, to take some control in my final days.

'I might have a diamorphine pump at that time, and the idea of having an extra vial in the fridge for me to use if I need it is appealing.

'But I know it cannot be prescribed legally for this purpose so is not really an option. Despite helpful conversations with excellent palliative care specialists, this final element of choice and self-determination seems to evade me.'

Professor Cosford said his experience of lung cancer had caused him to change his views on euthanasia.

He had previously believed the law was 'too blunt an instrument to deal with the complexities' of death, but was now convinced it must be reviewed.

All forms of assisted dying are illegal in the UK, and can result in up to 14 years in prison.

But assisted dying has been legalised in several countries including the Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium and Canada.

Campaigners who argue for the ban on assisted dying to be overturned in the UK have been met with significant opposition from doctors, religious groups and MPs. Parliament has consistently voted against changing the law.

Professor Cosford wrote: 'We need to set aside entrenched positions on each side of the debate and look openly at the problems faced by people at the end of their lives.

IS ASSISTED DYING LEGAL IN THE UK? Assisted dying remains outlawed in Britain, despite polls showing up to 80 per cent of the public support a change in the policy. It is considered a criminal offence and currently carries a maximum jail sentence of 14 years in Britain. Assisted dying is currently legal in several European countries, such as Switzerland - home of Dignitas, and some states in America. The non-profit society was founded in 1998 in the landlocked nation, situated next to France, Germany and Italy. Since the inception of Dignitas, it has reportedly helped more than 2,000 people end their lives. They often have severe physical or mental illnesses. Those wanting to end their lives must not be motivated by selfishness, have to be cleared by an independent doctor and prove they are of sound judgement. Advertisement

'We need to understand why rational, law abiding people sometimes feel compelled to travel to Switzerland for such care, often not telling their families why they are going. And we need to understand why their loved ones are sometimes prosecuted afterwards for helping them. Surely this tells us that our current arrangements are inhumane.'

Professor Cosford detailed the deterioration in his quality of life as his cancer progresses and said he would have less concern about dying if he knew assisted suicide was an option.

He wrote: 'I try hard not to, but inevitably I sometimes ponder how I will die There are many unpleasant scenarios I can contemplate.

'In some ways I hope it will be an infection that takes me, as that may be a quicker and kinder option. Perhaps, paradoxically, covid-19 or flu, which I have worked so hard to control over the years as a public health professional, will come to my aid.

He said: 'My exercise tolerance, already much lower than before my cancer, is likely to reduce still further.

'I already get out of breath walking uphill, and I can manage only a few miles on the bike instead of the several hundred I used to enjoy as an ultra long distance cyclist

Professor Cosford has had a distinguished career in public health and infectious diseases, and was involved in the UK's response to Ebola ad the Salisbury poisonings.

He stepped down from his role as Director for Health Protection and Medical Director at Public Health England last year due to his illness. He now serves as emeritus medical director at the body, providing advice to the chief executive.
New Delhi: As the construction of the Ram temple has started in Ayodhya after 500 years of the long wait, Kashi Vishwanath temple in Varanasi is now waiting for the resolution of the dispute surrounding it. After Ayodhya, Lord Shiva's abode is considered to be the biggest center of the Hindu faith.

In the city of Lord Shiva, the dispute is over the construction of the Gyanvapi mosque on the original site of the Jyotirlinga during Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb's regime. Gyan Vapi means pond or well of knowledge. The DNA analysis will present before you all the facts which were deliberately hidden from people.

We also have a few important papers which describe the 351-year-old facts and were submitted by the Hindu side in a Varanasi court hearing the dispute between the Kashi Vishwanath temple and the Gyan Vapi mosque. This is the historical document that was issued on 18th April 1669 by a courtier of Aurangzeb, originally written in Persian. This document has been submitted before the court states that when Aurangzeb received the news that in some suburbs of Multan and Benaras, some Brahmins are teaching their junk books in schools.

After hearing this, Aurangzeb issued a decree that temples and schools of the infidels should be demolished. The concerned officials were also instructed that they should immediately stop all kinds of studies related to scriptures and idol worship. Aurangzeb was also informed that after his orders, on September 2, 1669, the Kashi Vishwanath temple was demolished.

This historical document confirms that Kashi Vishwanath temple was damaged on the orders of Aurangzeb. Now, it is up to the court to consider the veracity of this document. Meanwhile, we tell you 5 facts related to the Kashi Vishwanath temple.

1. Kashi Vishwanath temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, hence it is considered to be one of the biggest centers of Hindu faith.

2. Attacks on Kashi Vishwanath temple started with the arrival of Muslim invaders in India. The first attack was made by Qutubuddin Aibak in the 11th century. The temple's summit was broken, but the worship of Lord Shiva continued despite the attack.

3. Kashi Vishwanath temple was rebuilt by King Todarmal in 1585. Todarmal was one of the nine jewels of Mughal Emperor Akbar.

4. The temple was completely destroyed and a mosque was built there in 1669, on the orders of Aurangzeb.

5. In 1780, Queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Malwa got built a new temple next to the Gyanvapi complex. The new complex is now known as Kashi Vishwanath temple. In 1853, Ranjit Singh of Punjab donated 880 kg of gold for ornamentation of the temple's top.

Since then, this dispute is continuing and now the matter is pending in Varanasi district court. In 2018, the Hindu side demanded that the entire Gyanvapi campus be surveyed by the Archeology Department to resolve this dispute.

We need to first understand the basis of this controversy: Hindus believe that Lord Vishwanath's self-proclaimed Jyotirlinga is present in the Gyanvapi complex, and wants that complex to be excavated, while Muslims opine that there was no temple on that site. Notably, Hindus filed a suit in 1991 citing 3 major demands.

1. The first demand was that the entire Gyanvapi land to be declared a part of the temple.

2. The second demand was that Muslims should be evacuated from here and the present structure should be demolished and hand over possession to Hindus.

3. The third demand was that Hindus should be allowed to rebuild the temple in place of the original Shivalinga and Muslims should not disturb it.

On September 23, 1998, the Varanasi district court directed that the religious form of the entire Gyanvapi campus should be decided first. This means that effort should be made to determine if this place was a temple or mosque on the 15th of August 1947. Because according to the Places of Worship Act, 1991, the status quo of the 15th August 1947 is maintained on the country's religious places except for Ayodhya, which was considered an exception to this.

The High Court, however, stayed the district court verdict. After 20 years, the hearing again started in 2018, but the Muslim side once again took a stay order.

The biggest argument of the Hindu side is based on the walls of the Gyanvapi mosque that differ from the construction of the other walls of the mosque. Several photographs of the Gyanvapi complex have been submitted before the court as evidence.

Judges of the Varanasi district court wanted to first decide whether there was a temple or a mosque at the disputed site on the day of independence. The court also believed that Kashi Vishwanath temple has an ancient history and this matter is related to religious sentiments of people, therefore, the dispute should be resolved as soon as possible on the basis of merit.

Notably, there are three parties in the case currently going on in the Varanasi district court; the first party is the Jyotirlinga Vishveshwara i.e, Lord Shiva himself as Ramlala Virajman in the Ayodhya case. The court-appointed advocate Vijay Shankar Rastogi as a friend of Lord Shiva. The second party is the Sunni Central Waqf Board, while the third party is Anjuman Intejamia Masajid Committee.

Although the current trial started in 1991, the legal dispute goes back to 1936, when the Muslim side filed a petition in the Varanasi district court. The petition, filed by Deen Mohammad, asked the court to declare the entire Gyanvapi complex as the mosque land. In 1937, the court rejected his claim but allowed Namaz at the disputed site.

The Hindus were not a party in this lawsuit, but evidence submitted before the court are still relevant. The Zee News team found those original documents that can give a new twist to the Kashi Gyanvapi dispute.

During the hearing of this case, the British officers had presented a map of the ancient Vishwanath temple built-in 1585. Presenting the map in the court, British officials stated that a mosque was built in some part of it.

Like the Ayodhya dispute, the Kashi Vishwanath temple dispute also witnessed bloodshed many times. In the year 1809, Hindu-Muslim riots took place in Benares claiming many lives. When the Vice President in-Council of Calcutta asked the then Magistrate of Benaras, Watson, the reason behind the riots. Watson is learned to have said that the demolition of the temple by Aurangzeb was the key reason. He also suggested that Muslims should be removed from Gyanvapi to resolve the dispute.

The Vice President in-Council of Calcutta, however, rejected Watson's suggestions as the British did not want to end the dispute. This fact was submitted before the Varanasi district Court in the year 1936.

According to the 2011 Census, there are currently more than 3 million temples in India. This includes all kinds of temples, small, big, new, and ancient, and of these more than 10,000 ancient temples were damaged. Some of these were completely destroyed, mosques were constructed over them.
Work by leading art deco sculptor, Kansan featured in new Beach Museum of Art exhibition

Thursday, Oct. 1, 2020

Waylande Gregory's "Flamingo Figure and Console Set" was made in 1930 while he was with Cowen Pottery in Rocky River, Ohio. The glazed earthenware, which is 14 x 15 x 11 inches, is part of a private collection. | Download this photo.

MANHATTAN  The works of an artist from Kansas who is considered to be one of the most prolific and innovative art deco ceramic sculptors of the 20th century will be featured in the next virtual exhibition offered by the Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art at Kansas State University.



"Waylande Gregory: Art Deco Ceramics and the Atomic Impulse" will open online Tuesday, Oct. 13, at beach.k-state.edu. This virtual retrospective expands on an exhibition organized by the Alfred Ceramic Art Museum at Alfred University in New York State and features 3D views of Gregory's art, film footage and interviews with specialists.



"Gregory's groundbreaking techniques enabled him to create monumental ceramic works, including his Fountain of the Atom for the 1939 New York Worlds Fair  a tribute to atomic energy that earned the attention of Albert Einstein," said Elizabeth Seaton, Beach Museum of Art curator and the co-curator, with independent scholar Tom Folk, of the Gregory exhibition.



Born in the southeast Kansas community of Baxter Springs in 1905, as a young man Gregory designed architectural ornaments for the Missouri Theatre in St. Joseph and the famous Aztec Room in the Hotel President in Kansas City. His early development as a sculptor was shaped by study with prominent beaux arts figure Lorado Taft in Chicago. Soon after, Gregory became lead designer at Cowan Pottery in Ohio, known for its limited-edition table-top sculptures. He also became a professor at the Cranbrook Academy of Art in Michigan before settling in New Jersey in an art deco home he designed.



Gregory was known as one of the few ceramic artists of the pre-World War II era to address social and political concerns in his work. During the Great Depression, the Gregory produced ceramic sculpture and tile murals for the Works Progress Administration, including the depiction of a pony express rider for the Columbus, Kansas, post office. Gregory served as New Jerseys director of WPA sculptural programs. During the 1940s and 1950s, he designed tableware, which sold at retail stores such as Bonwit Teller and Neiman Marcus. He died in 1971.



The virtual exhibition and both live and pre-recorded online events will be offered free by the Beach Museum of Art:



 Livestream lecture by Tom Folk, co-curator of "Waylande Gregory: Art Deco Ceramics and the Atomic Impulse," at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8.



 Virtual tour of the Waylande Gregory exhibition, led by Elizabeth Seaton, exhibition co-curator, at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17. The tour is part of the Beach Museum of Art's Art in Motion Expo.



 "Innovations in Clay" is a livestream talk to be presented at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17, by Nick Geankoplis, K-State assistant professor of art, as part of the Art in Motion Expo.



 "Waylande Gregory and the New York World's Fair," a livestream lecture by Robert W. Rydell, professor of American studies at Montana State University, will be at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12.



 "Waylande Gregory and Cowan Pottery," a livestream lecture by Greg Hatch, curator and historian at the Cowan Pottery Museum, will be presented at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 18, 2021.



To take part in any of the related events, go to beach.k-state.edu.






By Philip Pullella

ROME (Reuters) - The Vatican said on Wednesday it had denied a request from Mike Pompeo for an audience with Pope Francis, and accused the Secretary of State of trying to drag the Catholic Church into the U.S. presidential election by denouncing its relations with China.

The extraordinary remarks from the two top diplomatic officials at the Vatican came after Pompeo accused the Church in an article and a series of tweets this month of putting its "moral authority" at risk by renewing an agreement with China over the appointment of bishops.

Pompeo, who was in Rome on Wednesday and due to meet Vatican officials on Thursday, repeated his denunciations of China's record on religious freedom at an event hosted by the U.S. embassy to the Holy See.

The Vatican's two top diplomats, Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Foreign Minister Archbishop Paul Gallagher, said Francis had declined a request from Pompeo for an audience, as the pope avoids meeting politicians ahead of elections.

"Yes, he asked. But the pope had already said clearly that political figures are not received in election periods. That is the reason," Parolin said.

The Vatican's two-year-old agreement with Beijing gives the pope some say over the appointment of Chinese bishops. It was due to expire next month, but is expected to be renewed.

Officials in the Holy See say the agreement is not perfect but call it a step forward, after decades during which Chinese Catholics who recognise the pope were driven underground.

Parolin and Gallagher both described Pompeo's public criticism as a "surprise", coming just before his planned visit.

"Normally when you're preparing these visits between high-level officials, you negotiate the agenda for what you are going to talk about privately, confidentially. It's one of the rules of diplomacy," Gallagher said.

"THAT'S JUST CRAZY"

Story continues

Asked if he believed that Pompeo's criticisms of the Vatican deal were intended for political use in the United States, Parolin said: "Some have interpreted it this way ... that the comments were above all for domestic political use. I don't have proof of this but certainly this is one way of looking at it."

The Vatican-China deal "is a matter that has nothing to do with American politics. This is a matter between Churches and should not be used for this type of ends," Parolin said.

For his part, when asked at a briefing if he was "picking a fight" with the Vatican over China and what impact that could have on Catholic and other Christian voters, Pompeo replied: "That's just crazy."

President Donald Trump has campaigned on his hard line towards China ahead of the Nov. 3 election. He is also strongly associated with conservative Protestant and Catholic movements, many of which have been critical of Pope Francis.

In his speech on Thursday, Pompeo did not directly address the Vatican agreement with Beijing, but he described China as the world's worst abuser of religious rights.

"Nowhere is religious freedom under assault more than in China," Pompeo said. The Chinese Communist Party was looking to "to snuff out the lamp of freedom ... on a horrifying scale".

(Reporting by Philip Pullella; Editing by Peter Graff)
YEREVAN, 1 OCTOBER, ARMENPRESS. The Central Bank of Armenia informs Armenpress that today, 1 October, USD exchange rate up by 0.17 drams to 488.58 drams. EUR exchange rate up by 2.15 drams to 573.93 drams. Russian Ruble exchange rate up by 0.08 drams to 6.32 drams. GBP exchange rate up by 1.10 drams to 627.73 drams.

The Central Bank has set the following prices for precious metals.

Gold price up by 56.63 drams to 29639.82 drams. Silver price down by 1.59 drams to 372.68 drams. Platinum price up by 67.64 drams to 13886.06 drams.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 1)  Lawmakers are urging the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) to avail of new actuarial services due to its "bloated" and "outlandish" financial estimates even in the middle of the pandemic.

During the joint hearing of the House Committees on Public Accounts, and Good Government and Public Accountability on Thursday, congressmen criticized the projected expenses of the state health insurer, which seemed too hefty despite numerous irregularities hounding it.

Nerissa Santiago, PhilHealth senior vice president (SVP) for actuary; and Renato Limsiaco Jr., SVP for fund management sector, told the panel that for 2020 alone, the agency's projected income is at least 148 billion. However, it would still incur a deficit due to projected 237-billion expenses intended for benefit claims and COVID-19 response, they said.

"Computations seem to be outlandish...tama ba na we need another viewpoint from the Actuarial Society of the Philippines to know the truth?" Cavite Rep. Jesus Crispin Remulla asked the panel, after hearing the responses of the PhilHealth officials. "Kung ito ang asahan natin lulubog at lulubog ang PhilHealth."

[Translation: Computations seem to be outlandish...Is it right that we need another viewpoint from the Actuarial Society of the Philippines to know the truth? If we will rely on PhilHealth alone, it will continue to sink further.]

Marikina Rep. Stella Quimbo agreed to this, noting that PhilHealth previously committed to letting a third party analyze financial projections for the agency.

The Actuarial Society of the Philippines, tasked to analyze the financial statuses of firms could help in conducting third party audits for PhilHealth to ensure transparency in the agency, the lawmakers said.

Quimbo, also an economist, pointed out that PhilHealth's misleading computation of its benefit payments and new packages could be one of its ways of getting money from the government.

Santiago and Limsiaco projected 50 billion worth of benefit packages that needed to be paid for COVID-19 patients for this year, but Quimbo's calculation was only at 5 billion.

Quimbo also pointed out that the "Konsulta Package" for patients' diagnosis and consultations alone will cost the agency an 86 billion deficit, without a substantial actuarial study on how it works.

"Bakit ka mag-i-introduce ng package na ikalulugi mo, and kaya ba yan just because it provides consultation checkups for every Filipino?" the lawmaker said, noting that consultations should not be covered by insurance.

Quimbo added: "Why are they raising alarm bells? Bakit nila sinasabing malulugi sila? I think that's their way of trying to ask for more money from the government."

[Translation: Why would you introduce a package that would cost you deficits, with an uncertainty on how it can provide consultation checkups for every Filipino? Why are they raising alarm bells? Why are they saying that they will go bankrupt? I think that's their way of trying to ask more money from the government.]

In previous House hearings, Santiago claimed that PhilHealth may lose its reserve funds by next year due to decreased collections and increase in payouts amid the global health crisis.

Out of its expected 148 billion income this year, 71 billion would come from government subsidies only.

Investigations are ongoing on other PhilHealth irregularities, including its controversial reimbursement mechanism for hospitals, its questionable procurement of IT equipment, and the potential collusion of the private sector in other schemes.
Hundreds of millions in China hustled to enjoy their first major national holiday since the country beat its coronavirus outbreak, filling airports and train stations on Thursday.

The Golden Week holiday marks the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949 and sees an astonishing annual movement of people trying to get home or take holidays.

But this year has added significance, with the crowds filling the concourses pointing to a country rebounding from the outbreak and parading the freedom to travel as a contrast to the rolling lockdowns hitting much of the world.

"Normally, we would take a family holiday abroad... but this year we opted for a staycation instead," said Niu Honglin from Shanghai.

Niu booked rooms in a boutique hotel near Shanghai Disneyland but quickly encountered the problem of millions of extra tourists hunting fun at home.

"My daughter had to wait in line for nearly three hours to get on a ride," she said.

Domestic travel has sprung back to life and given the economy a boost after the virus shuttered businesses and scared away tourists following its emergence in Wuhan late last year.

"People are travelling with a vengeance!" said Huo Binxing, a banker from Beijing who is heading to Lhasa in Tibet.

"It's our first chance to unwind after such a stressful period."

Wuhan in central China is back in business too, with visitors thronging to the Yellow Crane Tower -- a Taoist shrine -- according to the country's biggest travel agency Ctrip.

But some have scrapped plans as the virus continues to seed anxiety.

Ming Rui, a fashion designer in Beijing, said she cancelled a visit to the coastal city Qingdao after two coronavirus cases were reported there last week.

"It was our first family trip this year, but we cancelled because I got very nervous," Ming said, adding her parents are in their seventies.

- Much-needed spending -

Story continues

More than 600 million trips will be taken during the holiday, down 20 percent from a year ago, Ctrip estimated, but they will still force the state railway to lay on 1,000 extra trains a day.

Around 108 million passengers will take trains during the eight-day holidays -- around 13.5 million a day.

They are likely to bring much-needed spending to far-flung parts of China -- last year, travellers spent $9.5 billion during the Golden Week.

Many will take luxury holidays at home, travel operator Quanar said, amid global travel restrictions.

But the absence of their tourist dollars this year will leave regional nations -- from Thailand to Cambodia -- wincing from the economic pain caused by the prolonged closure of borders.

At Beijing's Capital Airport -- whose check-in rows and aisles were empty in February -- thousands of passengers queued up with their luggage and children in tow.

Life in the Chinese capital has gradually returned to normal after ghostly scenes of empty roads in January and February, and a second virus outbreak in June.

The once eerily empty streets in the city's financial district are packed, previously deserted malls are full of shoppers and ice rinks have filled with children learning to skate again.

Chinese retail sales edged back to growth in August for the first time since the pandemic struck, signalling a rebound for the world's second-largest economy.

prw-rox/apj
U.S. President Donald Trumps perceived endorsement of the far-right Proud Boys seems to have injected new life into some of the movements adherents north of the border  where their founder hails from.

The Canadian chapters of the self-described all-male Western chauvinist movement have avoided mainstream attention in recent years. Now, researchers and anti-hate advocates worry that might be changing  particularly after Trump suggested during Tuesday nights presidential debate that the movement should stand by and that somebodys got to do something about anti-fascist protesters.

President Trumps mention of the Proud Boys has definitely sparked an interest, wrote a spokesperson for the movements Manitoba chapter, who declined to be identified in a statement to the Star.

We recognize there is confusion with what we are and what we stand for. Especially with knock-off groups like (Proud Boys) Canada First whose values do not align with Proud Boys Manitoba.

Listen to Ed Keenan discuss what may happen if Trump loses the election

Experts who study right-wing extremism acknowledge the Proud Boys are not easily defined. They proudly proclaim themselves to be Western chauvinists who promote minimal government, anti-political correctness, closed borders, anti-racism and venerating the housewife.

But the Southern Poverty Law Center declares Proud Boys a hate group whose members spout white nationalist memes, affiliate with known extremists and are known for anti-Muslim and misogynistic rhetoric.

Predominantly based in the U.S., the Proud Boys were founded by Gavin McInnes, the Canadian co-founder of VICE magazine and far-right provocateur who has been banned from social media platforms for promoting violence and hate.

During Tuesday nights presidential debate, Trump was asked by moderator Chris Wallace if he was willing to condemn white supremacist and militia groups that have begun showing up at protests against racial injustice.

Im willing to do anything. I want to see peace,  Trump said during the chaotic debate. What do you want me to call them? Give me a name.

Democratic nominee Joe Biden tossed out, Proud Boys.

Proud Boys, stand back and stand by, Trump responded. But Ill tell you what. Ill tell you what. Somebodys got to do something about Antifa and the left because this is not a right wing problem.

The Trump campaign attempted to recast the presidents remarks as an indication he wants the group to get out of the way, and that Trump does not condone vigilantism.

But thats not how theyve been received by far-right elements both in the U.S. and north of the border. Trump basically said to go f  -  them up, Proud Boys member Joe Biggs posted on Parler, a Twitter-like platform frequented by the alt-right.

Can you remember a time when a western leader gave a shout-out to an extremist group? I cant, said Brad Galloway, a former skinhead and now the co-ordinator for Ontario Tech Universitys Centre on Hate, Bias and Extremism.

People in positions in power, especially where were at living in liberal democracies, should be able to say, I dont think white supremacy is good for our country. They should be able to denounce white supremacy.

Galloway estimated there are hundreds of members in various Proud Boy chapters across the country.

Galloway anticipates there will be a spillover effect from Trumps comments. Proud Boys members, including those in Canada, are likely to see Trumps remarks as a call to action, he said.

Samantha Kutner, a research fellow at the Khalifa Ihler Institute, which carries out various projects in the name of global peace, describes the group as one of the most dangerous organizations out there.

When members identify as being defenders of the West, thats code for whiteness, said Kutner, who has interviewed many Proud Boys members and has been mapping their activities around the world.

Among the groups favourite targets are powerful women, members of the LGBTQ community, Muslims, journalists and those who promote progressive values, Kutner said.

In a recent article for Georgetown Universitys journal of international affairs, Kutner recalled an incident in Vancouver in 2017 when Proud Boys members showed up at a bar that was hosting a fundraiser protesting violence against women.

Their presence was a deliberate provocation, she wrote.

Proud Boys members have previously made headlines in Canada for distributing promotional flyers outlining their key tenets in Kamloops, B.C., and for disrupting a group of Indigenous activists in Halifax who were protesting a statue of Edward Cornwallis, former governor of Nova Scotia.

They will take any opportunity to maximize their visibility and gain support, Kutner said. Now they may not need much because Trump has given them a major endorsement.

Read more about:
Citizens aged 18-19 are accepted for military service at their own request.

The autumn conscription campaign has launched in Ukraine today, October 1.

In total, 13,570 citizens will be called up for military service, including 7,500 to the Armed Forces of Ukraine, 4,970 to the National Guard, 500 to the State Border Guard Service, and 600 to the State Special Transport Service.

That's according to the appendix to the Cabinet of Ministers' Order "On the approval of the number of citizens of Ukraine subject to conscription and expenses for conscription in October-December 2020."

Read alsoCourts in occupied Crimea find nine local men guilty of draft evasionCitizens aged 18-19 are accepted for military service at their own request, the Cabinet stressed in a statement.

The total amount of expenses for the conscription of citizens for compulsory military service in October-December is UAH 58,312,054 (US$2.06 million).

The cost per conscript is UAH 4,297 (US$152), of which UAH 4,204 (US$149) is a cash assistance.

Ukraine military: Other reports
Its been really challenging for Huda Jabar and her husband to help educate their own children with the new learning format at Rapid City Area Schools so far this fall amid the COVID-19 pandemic, she said.

We try our best to help as working full-time parents, Jabar said.

She stays busy as the director of Fit-n-Fun Childcare and Preschool, while her husband teaches at Douglas High School, which opted for in-person learning Monday through Friday this school year.

Their 9-year-old son switched back to Level 1 along with his peers at Pinedale Elementary School this week while his 11-year-old sister at West Middle School continued at Level 2, Jabar said.

Jabar said her daughter sits in her office three days a week working on e-learning while she manages the center. On Fridays, both kids do their off-campus learning at Fit-n-Fun.

Fit-n-Fun, meanwhile, is seeing lower enrollment numbers than it did in a normal year due to family finances and level changes at Rapid City Area Schools, Jabar said.

Some of the parents Jabar usually sees, especially those who have two or three kids, cant afford day care this year. A lot of parents lost their jobs or decided to home school due to the pandemic, she said.

There are 35 children in the after-school program, but we cant take more kids because RCAS may choose to switch levels at any time, Jabar said, noting the majority of students at the center come from Black Hawk, Canyon Lake, Corral Drive, Meadowbrook, Pinedale and South Canyon elementary schools.

After-school programs at the YMCA are only at 60% of the capacity they'd see in a normal year, director Keiz Larson said, adding that part of the decline is due to RCAS starting at Level 2 (two days of in-person learning and three days off-campus).

"We know parents are struggling to figure out those all-day needs they have when school is not in session," Larson said. At Level 1, parents can plan better for their needs to take their kids to the after-school program, she said.

Larson said she knows that many child-care programs across town have been "scrambling," and knows some people aren't operating the programs they had last year because of struggles with COVID-19.

The YMCA offers all-day programming for RCAS students on Fridays, which the district has dedicated as off-campus learning days at all levels.

At Youth and Family Services (YFS), fewer children come to Girls Inc., Head Start and the after-school programs by design to keep group sizes smaller, CEO John Julius said. It allows the center to better manage group numbers and follow CDC guidelines, he said.

Through the design, weve been adapting our model to react to what the school system is doing, Julius said. Weve done our best to support schools and children that access our services.

YFS provides opportunities for students to work on homework and utilize other resources whether RCAS is in Level 1, 2 or 3, Julius said. Students enrolled with YFS can access the WiFi and technology there as needed to help with online learning.

With the elementary schools moving to Level 1, Julius said its challenging to have some of the children in K-5 at YFS at the same time as middle and high school students who are in Girls Inc., but that YFS, parents and children are all adjusting schedules to make it work.

Julius children have all graduated from RCAS, but said he knows that among YFS employees with school-age children and especially younger children, they have to make modifications at work to take care of their children when theyre not at school.

It has made a challenge for scheduling our employees, and a challenge for families to work around getting care for their children when theyre not at school during the day, Julius said.

While the YMCA, YFS and Fit-n-Fun have seen changes in their enrollment, Harmony Childcare and Preschool has seen an increase in enrollment for after school care.

Harmony owner Brenda Showalter said at least an additional five students have started attending the center, adjacent to Robbinsdale, for the after-school program.

Numbers were low for a while because parents and everybody was home, so enrollments were down, but theyre going back up, she said. With the Level 1 change in elementary schools, its gone back down as they go into school more.

Showalter said Harmony will do whatever we can to help the parents out, including helping kids who chose distance learning for the full semester. She said she hears from parents who struggle with everything, such as getting to work on time.

We try to help as much as we can and have kids work on their days off, Showalter said. We try to do what we can to help parents out. Each parent is different. We go with whatever each parent needs.

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The Connecticut Green Bank is pleased to announce the relaunch of its Charge Up CT Buildings program, an initiative originally launched in January that offers free electric vehicle (EV) charging stations to commercial property owners who use Connecticut Green Bank C-PACE financing. The initiative was put on hold in March due to COVID-19 restrictions.

C-PACE (Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy) is an innovative financing tool that provides building owners with access to 100% financing for energy improvements, realize positive cash flow immediately, and create more comfortable, efficient buildings. C-PACE can also support building owners in reducing operating expenses and increasing cash flow, providing a vital lifeline to help businesses get through tough economic times. Plus, the Green Bank is currently offering flexible payment options for new borrowers that let them choose to defer or pay interest-only on initial payments, offering borrowers ways to improve their building and save energy while freeing up cash and receiving immediate financial relief.

The Green Bank is enabling building owners to take control of their energy costs and save money by using C-PACE, which could provide many borrowers the breathing room they need while the economy recovers and things get back to normal, said Mackey Dykes, Vice President, Financing Programs at Connecticut Green Bank. But with C-PACE and Charge Up CT Buildings, were also helping borrowers to position their properties and businesses  and our community  for future success, and a better, new normal. Borrowers will not only make their buildings more modern and attractive, but their customers, tenants, and employees will be able to charge up and enjoy the benefits of electric vehicles.

The addition of free EV charging equipment means property owners leveraging C-PACE wont just be using the clean energy financing mechanism as a tool to improve their financial position in the near term, but also to modernize their buildings and position them more competitively in the future. Whether building tenants are commercial or residential, as the EV market continues to grow, properties with charging stations can lead the way.

To qualify for a free EV charging station, energy saving projects must utilize at least $150,000 in Green Bank C-PACE financing with at least 20% of the total project costs going toward non-renewable measures. Larger projects may be eligible to receive up to three electric vehicle charging stations. Connecticut Green Banks C-PACE team will work with building owners to determine if their project is eligible for the C-PACE program and Charge Up CT Buildings incentive.

Property owners will now have until December 18, 2020 to apply for C-PACE financing in order to be eligible for this limited time promotion. Property owners are encouraged to contact the Green Bank early to start the application process.

For more information about the initiative, please visit chargeupct.com or call 866-324-0099.
University of Chicago takes top honors in the first college free speech rankings developed by RealClear Education and the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education.

The rankings are based on interviews with 20K students at 55 schools across the nation. They measure openness to discuss challenging topics; tolerance for allowing controversial speakers on campus; self-expression; administrative support, which is the students perception about whether their college protects or punishes free speech; and FIREs speech code rating which gauges college policies on how they protect or restrict free speech.

The University of Chicago, which has one of the most liberal student bodies of any school on the list, is noted for championing free expression. It released The Chicago Statement in 2015, which states:

Because the University is committed to free and open inquiry in all matters, it guarantees all members of the University community the broadest possible latitude to speak, write, listen, challenge, and learn.... [I]t is not the proper role of the University to attempt to shield individuals from ideas and opinions they find unwelcome, disagreeable, or even deeply offensive.

Kansas State University ranks No. 2 on the list, followed by Texas A&M, UCLA, Arizona State, University of Virginia, Virginia Polytechnic Institute, Brown University and University of Arizona.

The bottom five schools are Oklahoma State, Syracuse University, Dartmouth College, Louisiana State University and DePauw University.

Master of Misinformation Donald Trump is the largest driver of misinformation about the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a study by the Cornell Alliance for Science.

The study evaluated 38M articles in the English-language media and found that 1.1M of them disseminated, amplified or reported misinformation about the virus.

Miracle cures ranks as the most popular topic in the COVID-10 infodemic. Trump powered the miracle cures category by playing up unproven treatments such as hydroxychloroquine and swallowing disinfectants to cure coronavirus.

The Alliance found the No. 2 topic of misinformation was that the pandemic was created to advance a new world order/deep state." That was followed by a hoax pushed by the Democratic party and a bioweapon concocted and released by a Chinese laboratory in Wuhan.

Trump continues to contribute to the infodemic by claiming that a vaccine for the virus will be here rather quickly, perhaps ahead of the Nov. 3 presidential elections.

This is not a publicity stunt, said Federal Aviation Administration administer Steve Dickson, who conducted his own test flight of a Boeing 737 Max on Sept. 30. That plane has been grounded for more than 18 months following crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia.

Dickson, a former Delta Air Lines pilot, had to complete new training procedures and do a practice run on a 737 simulator before taking to the air.

I like what I saw on the flight, said Dickson, adding that more work has to be done before the FAA re-certifies the 737 Max.

A daughter of an Ethiopian crash victim called Dicksons test flight a gimmick.

"It's nothing but a clown in a suit to reassure the public that everything is fine," Zipporah Kuria said. "It's clearly a PR stunt for the FAA and a free endorsement for Boeing."

Dickson, who took over the FAA last fall, has promised throughout that he wasnt going to sign off on the plane until he flew it and was satisfied that he would put his own family on it without a second thought.

In flying the 737 Max, Dickson put his own life on the line. That was hardly a PR stunt. Hes talking the talk and walking the walk.
Since the onset of COVID-19, spine health has become a greater concern. The body is made for movement, and spending more time at home may lead to an unhealthy, sedentary lifestyle. This can add negative stress to the spine and create dysfunction, such as improper joint motion and decreased nerve flow to the body. Chiropractic adjustments seek spine alignment to allow for more flexibility, improved structural support, better range of motion and improved nerve function by properly coordinating your body to respond to environmental stress.

"According to the CDC, approximately 25 percent of Americans were getting their recommended daily exercise even before the pandemic. As people now pursue work and education from their couches, it further amplifies an inactive lifestyle," said Peter D. Holt, president and CEO of The Joint Corp. "The less we move, the higher the risk to our health and wellness. Chiropractic care may help some patients find pain relief, allowing the body to move more freely and in a more natural way."

Millions of Americans have found relief from pain due to the benefits of chiropractic's natural, drug-free approach to healthcare. Everyone, from growing children and teen athletes to working parents and active seniors, can take advantage of regular chiropractic care. The Joint Chiropractic's purpose is to alleviate pain and help move patients toward a healthier lifestyle - including those seeking relief from neck and back pain caused by joint dysfunction, stress and tension disorders, poor posture, unbalanced coordination, migraines and more.

A nationwide system of over 550 chiropractic clinics in 33 states, The Joint Chiropractic is known for its convenient retail setting and concierge-style services including no-appointments, no-insurance hassles, affordable chiropractic care and accommodating hours of operations, including evenings and weekends.

For information on The Joint Chiropractic, or to find one of our chiropractors near you, visit thejoint.com. To learn more about your first visit, go to thejoint.com/what-to-expect.

About The Joint Chiropractic

The Joint Corp. revolutionized access to chiropractic care when it introduced its retail healthcare business model in 2010. Today, the company is making quality care convenient and affordable, while eliminating the need for insurance, for millions of patients seeking pain relief and ongoing wellness. With more than 550 locations nationwide and over seven million patient visits annually, The Joint Chiropractic is a key leader in the chiropractic industry. Named on Franchise Times "Top 200+ Franchises" and Entrepreneur's "Franchise 500" lists, The Joint Chiropractic is an innovative force, where healthcare meets retail. For more information, visit www.thejoint.com.

Business Structure

The Joint Corp. is a franchisor of clinics and an operator of clinics in certain states. In Arkansas, California, Colorado, District of Columbia, Florida, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Washington, West Virginia and Wyoming, The Joint Corp. and its franchisees provide management services to affiliated professional chiropractic practices.

Margie Wojciechowski

[email protected]

(480) 245-5960

SOURCE The Joint Corp.
Odeefo Amoakwa Buadu VIII, the Paramount Chief of Breman Traditional Area, has been elected the new President of the Central Regional House of Chiefs.



He polled 15 of the 24 total votes cast to beat the incumbent, Obrempong Nyanful Krampah XI, Paramount Chief of Gomoa Ajumako Traditional Area, who had seven votes.



Osagyefo Kwame Akonu X, the Paramount Chief of Anyan-Abaasa Traditional Area, was also elected as the Vice President of the House, during the election supervised by officials of the Electoral Commission (EC).



Three other Paramount Chief, Daasebre Kwebu Ewusi VII, of Abeadze Traditional Area, Odeefuo Afankwa III, for Breman Essiam Traditional Area and Oseadeyo Kwesi Kenin IV, of Twifo-Atti Mokwa Traditional Area were elected as representatives of the National House of Chiefs.



Justice Mrs Patience Mills Tetteh, a High Court Judge, administered the Oath of office to the newly elected President and his vice.



In his acceptance speech, Odeefo Amoakwa Buadu praised his predecessors for the immense contribution to the sustenance of the chieftaincy institution in the region and pledged to tap into their experience for a successful tenure.



The contribution and experience of every member of this house will be needed more than ever and every Paramount Chief will have to give out his best to realise the utmost aspiration of their subjects in their respective jurisdictions, he stated.



He urged the chiefs to maintain peace in their respective Traditional Areas and the Region as a whole.



Odeefo Amoakwa Buadu expressed his readiness to work with all members of the house and stakeholders to accomplish the shared mission of meeting the needs of their communities and the region at large.



He said the required committees would soon be formed to give every member of the house the privilege of serving on at least one committee.



Collectively, we shall work together to further project Central Region as a preferred and attractive destination for investors and tourists by partnering more with public and private sectors, he stated



Odeefo touted the opportunities available for partnership with government agencies such as the Ghana Tourism Board, Coastal Development Authority, CEDECOM and the Ghana Investment Promotion Authority to reduce poverty in the region.



He admonished members of the house to exert the right influence to improve infrastructure, primary healthcare and education.



Odeefo Amoakwa Buadu, enstooled Paramount chief in 2009, is a past student of St. Augustines College in Cape Coast and Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi where he obtained a degree in Mechanical Engineering.



He holds an Executive MBA from the University of Ghana Business School and a Diploma in Chieftaincy from the Otumfuo Centre for Traditional Leadership at the University of Professional Studies Accra (UPSA)

Source: GNA









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Authorities on Thursday asked for help solving the killing of a 19-year-old man shot to death this summer in Southeast Portland.

Officers found Sammie Lee West III suffering from a gunshot wound after they responded to Southeast 139th Avenue and Main Street on Aug. 22. Authorities tried to save him, but he died at the scene.

No suspect information has been developed in the killing, authorities said Thursday, and a reward is being offered in the case.

Crime Stoppers of Oregon offers rewards of as much as $2,500 for information, reported to the nonprofit, that leads to arrests in unsolved felony cases. Tipsters can stay anonymous.

The nonprofit said people can submit tips online, by calling 503-823-4357 or by using the P3 Tips mobile application.

-- Jim Ryan

jryan@oregonian.com; 503-221-8005; @Jimryan015
'Both are mature enough to realise that a break will not benefit either of them and both will be losers.'

IMAGE: O Panneerselvam and Edappadi K Palaniswami attend an AIADMK meeting. Photograph: OPS/Twitter

There are rumblings in Tamil Nadu'S ruling party.

The All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam is in turmoil as Chief Minister Edappadi Karuppa Palaniswami and Deputy Chief Minister Ottakarathevar Paneerselvam have fallen out -- openly.

Tensions were always brewing between them as Paneerselvam, or OPS, felt that as he was appointed chief minister twice by former party supremo J JayalalithaA and once by her aide V K Sasikala, he had a better claim to the CM's post.

The incumbent Palaniswami was appointed chief minister by Sasikala after OPS revolted and deserted the AIADMK expecting other MLAs to follow him.

When they didN't he let himself be persuaded to return to the original AIADMK, and joined Palaniswami, or EPS, as deputy chief minister. In the party, however, he was named the coordinator, with EPS as joint coordinator.

Peace between them, however, remained tenuous. OPS was clear that he was deputy CM in 'Amma's government', since the mandate in 2016 was for her government. In the 2021 election, he was sure, he would not play second fiddle to anyone.

Things boiled over at Monday's meeting of the AIADMK's executive committee over who would be the party's CM nominee in 2021, with both clashing openly.

A truce was, however called, and the party's deputy coordinator K P Munusamy announced that the AIADMK will announce its CM candidate on October 7.

But OPS is clearly sulking. On Tuesday he skipped a meeting on Covid preparedness called by EPS and was holed up with his followers.

What will happen next week? Will the party break up over the clash of personalities?

Dr Sumanth Raman, a seasoned observer of Tamil Nadu politics, tells A Ganesh Nadar/Rediff.com, "The BJP will definitely play a part."

How do you think the O Paneerselvam-Edappadi Palaniswami clash will play out?

I think some arrangement will be worked out. I don't think there will be a break between them. They will probably pull back.

Irrespective of who they declare as chief minister candidate on October 7, do you think the tensions within the party will subside?

Everybody will be jockeying for seats for their supporters. So everything will not be hunky-dory.

But both are mature enough to realise that a break will not benefit either of them and both will be losers.

Is there a chance of the party splitting after the announcement of the chief ministerial candidate?

I don't see a split, as the announcement was made by Munusamy, who is an OPS confidant. The announcement will not be made unilaterally.

If EPS is not sure that he will win, so he also wants some, a partial, say in party matters.

If OPS is given control of the party, then if they lose, then EPS will not have any say in the party. Now he has joint control of the party.

OPS is saying that he is being sidelined.

OPS has said that Prime Minister Modi had told him to merge the party and he would be deputy chief minister only for this term. Will the BJP play any part in the AIADMK's internal politics?

The BJP will definitely play a part. The last few months their relations are frosty. They have been taking pot shots at each other.

There are cases against AIADMK ministers. The BJP may use these to put pressure on them.

Their primary aim is to defeat the DMK so they need the AIADMK. In Tamil Nadu the BJP needs one of the two.

The AIADMK doesn't need the BJP. The question is whether the AIADMK is in a position to drop the BJP from the alliance.

If and when Sasikala is released, how will it impact the AIADMK?

She maybe a rallying point for some dissidents, but she does not have a mass base.

Both OPS and EPS know that letting her in will greatly weaken their influence.

Will the strained relations between the top two benefit the DMK in the assembly election?

If it reaches a break then it will benefit the DMK. Otherwise, as long as they are together and the party is united, it will not have a huge impact.

Will Palaniswami's handling of the Covid pandemic be an issue in the election?

It will definitely have an impact as the economy has been severely affected. It will have an anti-incumbency effect.

What about the three-language formula in the new education policy, which Tamil Nadu has opposed?

The three-language formula will be used by the DMK. I cannot see it making a huge impact, it could have a small impact.

The election will be a referendum on what EPS and the government have done in the last two-three years.
In a time of fear and destruction, the kindness of a child has once more brought some light into the world.

In Scappoose, Oregon, 5-year-old Carver told his grandmother Sasha Tinning that he wanted to do something to help the firefighters.

The two went to the store to gather supplies for a local donation drive for firefighters in Molalla and Colton, Oregon, and a toy caught Carver's eye.

Alone on the shelf sat The Child, a well-known character from the Star Wars Disney+ original series The Mandalorian. The Child is also referred to by fans as "Baby Yoda" since the character belongs to the same alien species as the Jedi Master. The doll was packaged in a cardboard pod akin to the floating cradle that carried the character throughout the series.

(Facebook/BabyYodaFightsFires)

"He was the last one on the shelf, just staring at us saying, 'Take me with you! I need go with you.' So that's kind of how it started," Tinning told Fox 12.

However, Carver decided not to take Baby Yoda home but instead to give him to someone else.

Tyler Eubanks, who was running the donation booth, took in Baby Yoda at the donation drive and in turn brought the toy to firefighters. The crews took to it immediately, taking photos of Baby Yoda in firefighting gear as they battled the wildfires in the West. Some of his outfits ranged from an American flag bandana to a department's T-shirt -- and one photo showed a crew treating him to chicken nuggets.

"These firefighters are putting their lives on the line," Tinning told CNN. "To have a little bit of sunshine during such a dark time, I think that's really special for them. He (Baby Yoda) is also just cute as the dickens."

Eubanks now runs a Facebook page that documents Baby Yoda's travels, sharing these photos, news stories and smiles the toy has brought.

A note from the 5-year-old also travels with the toy. It reads: "Thank you Fire Fighters. Here is a friend for you in case you get lonely. Love, Carver."

Story continues

"The note travels with Baby Yoda, and it goes from fire to fire," Oregon Department of Forestry Biomass Resource Specialist Marcus Kauffman told The Register-Guard. "So we just pass it around, you know. Baby Yoda is the source of light in the Force, in the world."

Oregon Department of Forestry's Adam Meyer stands with The Child on his shoulder reviewing the fire status. (Facebook/Adam Meyer)

For about a week, the Baby Yoda traveled around a camp where Adam Meyer was planning with the Oregon Department of Forestry's (ODF) Team Three, which focused on the Holiday Farm Fire, east of Eugene, Oregon. The team had arrived at the site at the beginning of the fire and has been there for the past three weeks.

One of the things Meyer appreciated about the doll was that once the photos were posted online, it helped to show the different moving parts of the fire program.

"I think a lot of people, when they think of the work that we do, they think of somebody out on the fire line, digging trench or something like that," Meyer told AccuWeather in an interview.

Although there are people who do that, Meyer pointed out there were also people behind the scenes working on finances, logistics and operations, planning and other personnel who aren't necessarily present at the fire line.

"For us, it was kind of fun to see that the world was, through this Yoda figure, was able to see a lot of the work that we were doing."

But the Baby Yoda doll also represents to them a fictional world parallel as to what the fire personnel do in the real world, Meyer said.

On Sept. 30, Meyer spent the morning debriefing and preparing for his team to close out. In that time, he listened to stories of "true heroes" who had been out on the line fighting the Holiday Fire that lost their homes or missed major family events such as seeing their kids going to college or a family member facing a medical condition. Meyer's own father suffered a heart attack while he was on site.

"They've had challenges of all types, and there are a lot of people out here who are, like this mythical Yoda, who are really true leaders and heroes and it kind of was a neat representation of that moving its way around," Meyer said.

He added that there had been some people who had been fighting fires "almost constantly" for seven or eight weeks without being home, sleeping in tents and fighting 16 hours a day.

"There's a lot of people doing some amazing stuff," Meyer said.

While the attention of the public has seemed to latch onto the doll and the donor, Meyer expressed that he didn't feel it distracted the public from what fire personnel were facing.

"It helps to bring sort of a perspective to an issue that is truly important," Meyer said. "That these wildfires are getting a lot worse, that climate change is happening ... for Oregon, we haven't had a wildfire season like this ever before and this fire that we were working on was the third-largest in Oregon."

(Facebook/BabyYodaFightsFires)

The Holiday Farm Fire was over 173,000 acres, as of Oct. 1, and 67% contained, according to InciWeb. By Oct. 12, containment reached 96%. The perimeter, Meyer added, stretched more than 270 miles, and this fire was the largest fire that ODF had been managing in its history.

"I got messages after I posted a photo with Yoda from people, friends that I have in Europe, around the world, who were following the story," Meyer said. "So it's pretty neat to get that sort of attention on issues that are really important and through such a sort of entertaining figure like Yoda."

Seeing the doll around the camp brought a few smiles, serving as a reminder of support from the communities fire personell aim to protect.

"We all come out here in order to serve our community and be there for our community, and it's nice to see that people in the community, even little, you know, young kids who aren't maybe realizing the full impact of what they're doing are there to support us as well," Meyer said.

Keep checking back on AccuWeather.com and stay tuned to the AccuWeather Network on DirecTV, Frontier and Verizon Fios.
AN initial report on the police use of tear gas against a group of protesters on Sunday has been completed.

The report, compiled by officers involved, is expected to be reviewed and recommendations made on if any protocols were breached by the officers engaged in the activities at the Queens Park Savannah in Port of Spain.
Resplendent in white satin, her hair perfectly pinned and her make-up pristine, a blushing bride grips her brother's arm as she takes a deep breath to calm her nerves.

On the other side of the solid oak door her handsome groom stares straight ahead, his palms sweating, his mind racing.

A ripple of excitement sweeps through the 40 guests as they eagerly wait for the ceremony to begin.

But this is no ordinary wedding. When the bride walks down the aisle and locks eyes with her husband-to-be, there isn't the usual comforting look of love shared by a couple who have spent months planning their big day together.

Just six weeks earlier, Shareen and David were told they were each other's perfect match and they agreed to get married, meeting for the first time on their big day. But these aren't the usual young reality TV wannabes  David is a 56-year-old sales director and his bride is 47 and an events manager

That's because this is the first time Shareen and her groom David have ever clapped eyes on each other.

They're the latest desperate duo to put their hearts in the hands of a team of matchmaking experts for Channel 4's hit show Married At First Sight.

Just six weeks earlier, Shareen and David were told they were each other's perfect match and they agreed to get married, meeting for the first time on their big day.

But these aren't the usual young reality TV wannabes  David is a 56-year-old sales director and his bride is 47 and an events manager. So was there instant chemistry when the pair met?

'I looked at him and I felt that instant sigh of relief. I thought, 'Oh, he's a good-looking man. That's a relief, wow, OK, I'm happy!' ' laughs Shareen.

The feeling was mutual, it seems. 'I fancied her the minute I saw her,' admits David.

'We were saying our vows and I got pretty emotional. We did end up having a bit of a fumble when it came to our first kiss. I went for the lips and she went for the cheek! But it was funny, it helped break the ice.'

For the first time ever the show, which first aired on Channel 4 in 2015 and is now on its fifth series, has opened up the process to people who are over 40, have children from previous relationships or have been married before.

Bosses claim this is in order to keep up with the times, as nowadays more people are finding their intended after they've reached 40.

But finding love in the 21st century is harder than ever before. Fast-paced lives and swiping left or right on superficial dating apps has left many singletons fearing a long, lonely life. So it's no wonder that at the start of this year more than 7,000 Brits applied to be on the show.

David and Shareen are making show history as the oldest couple to be matched and married. They have five children between them, and while David was married for a decade, Shareen's longest relationship of 15 years never saw her walk down the aisle.

When the bride walks down the aisle and locks eyes with her husband-to-be, there isn't the usual comforting look of love shared by a couple who have spent months planning their big day together. That's because this is the first time Shareen and her groom David have ever clapped eyes on each other

So why did this pair, who have both travelled the world and gained so much life experience, decide to pass control of their love lives to a team of expert matchmakers?

Shareen, who was born and raised in South Africa before moving to Wales, believes now is the time to put herself first after years dedicated to raising her three daughters, aged 24, 22 and 20, as a single mother.

'My girls have been my driving force, they've been my reason why, but now I feel the next stage of my life is for me.

'Single life is lonely  the thought of living the next 20, 30, 40 years and not sharing them with someone actually terrifies me.

'Marriage is the one thing I haven't been able to attain.'

Meanwhile, David, who lives in Herefordshire and has a son, 19, and daughter, 16, from his first marriage, admits he's been a disastrous dater since his divorce in 2007.

'I'm actually treating this more seriously, if anything, than my first marriage,' he confesses.

'I'm a little bit more grown up. I've had a dozen years to reflect on why the marriage didn't work, and areas where I probably didn't help that in the sense of communication. I think I'm a lot more relaxed now  I don't sweat the small stuff any more.'

That's probably a good thing when you've agreed to marry a complete stranger in front of your family and friends, not to mention millions of strangers who will be judging your decision from the comfort of their sofas.

Yet while the show is a firm favourite with viewers, of the 12 couples who have been on it, none of them is still married.

However, David and Shareen thought they would have better luck than past couples in finding the partner of their dreams, thanks to a new team of relationship experts.

For this series, Channel 4 bosses put together the self-titled 'Avengers of Dating', who claim that if they can't match the right people to create a long-term marriage, then no one can.

Heading up the team is 'Love Doctor' Paul C. Brunson, who Oprah Winfrey describes as 'much more than a matchmaker' after working with him on her U.S. shows.

The smooth-talking American, who has been married for 20 years, is considered one of the most successful matchmakers in the world  a title he doesn't plan to lose.

He's joined by leading UK matchmaker Genevieve Gresset, and between them the pair have successfully brought together more than 100,000 people. Completing the new line-up is psychologist Dr Angela Smith, billed as the 'walking lie detector'.

As in previous series, the singletons are put through rigorous interviews  but gone are the scientific tests and DNA profiling used in the past. Computers have been banned, and this time it's all about the personal touch.

The matchmakers grill the singletons for hours. 'It was very intensive,' says David.

'There were lots of trips to London to meet the matchmakers; they want to know everything about your backstory, all your life, your hobbies, your friends, your family. It was exhausting.

'But it was quite enlightening because you've got to be able to vocalise what you're looking for in a partner, what your core values are, what your morals are, so it does make you take quite a long, hard look at yourself.

'It was quite surreal when they actually said 'We've matched you', especially as I knew how many thousands of people had applied. I've never won anything in my life. I'm never going to win the Lottery, so when they called I thought: 'Wow, that doesn't happen to me very often!' '

Agreeing to marry a complete stranger is a brave decision for anyone, but throw a handful of children into the mix and it becomes even more complicated.

Thankfully, Shareen's daughters were supportive. 'They know the one thing that I've always wanted is to find a man to travel with,' she says.

'All they wanted was Mum to be happy, and if I can share the rest of my life with a man, they're awfully supportive of that.'

Sadly the same can't be said for David's children, who were far from impressed by his choice to approach the show and bring a stepmother neither of them had met before into their lives.

'They didn't react well, if I'm honest,' he admits.

'I thought the youngsters would take on new ideas and actually roll with it  because I remember when online dating started and my generation was saying 'Don't tell people we met online'  but they were very cynical.

'Part of that is just being protective of me. They were asking me not to do it throughout the process, and it actually forced me to really think about my decision.

'At the end of the day, when I had done all that self-reflection, it made me feel even more sure that Shareen and I would be a good match. Eventually, they came round to the idea, thankfully.'

As there were only six weeks between being matched and getting married, the couple had very limited input into their big day.

The venue  Eastwell Manor in Ashford, Kent  was chosen for them, as were the flowers, food, cake and decorations.

Relinquishing control was tough for Shareen, who makes a living planning events. But she did get to pick her own dress and the bridesmaids' outfits her daughters wore on the day, as well as the music for the key moments.

Rather aptly, she chose to walk down the aisle to Bruno Mars's hit Marry You, and when the newlyweds took to the dance floor for the first time as man and wife, it was to Could You Be The One? by Welsh rock band Stereophonics.

'I think maybe because I'm not so young, it wasn't all about the wedding for me,' she says.

'It was about actually meeting David.

'I didn't have a comedown during the whole day. It was like I was walking on air. I mean, everything was perfect  the venue, the flowers, the cake, the guests, the speeches, just perfect.

'I honestly couldn't have asked for a better day. It was everything I dreamed of and more.'

David agrees. 'A lot of my friends described it as a fairy-tale wedding,' he says.

'It was a wonderful venue. Everything was perfect, including my bride. It was like we'd known each other a long time. Even our friends said that  it didn't feel contrived, it didn't feel forced. It was magical.'

The show follows David and Shareen from being matched to getting married, going on honeymoon and beginning their lives as newlyweds just as lockdown hit, putting extra pressure on their fledgling romance.

The conditions of the show give them ten weeks to make life as husband and wife work before they decide whether to part ways or remain in wedded bliss  and the clock starts ticking the moment they say 'I do'.

The reason the programme has been so popular is that it throws up so many questions viewers are desperate to have answered.

Will the match work? Do their families like each other? Will they move in together? And if the sparks do fly, how quickly will they consummate the marriage?

'Intimacy is vital; I have no inhibitions there,' says Shareen with a wink, while refusing to reveal any more.

David adds: 'My journey is 50 years with somebody, not two months. So if the chemistry happens on day one, wonderful. If it happens on day six, or month six, it doesn't really bother me. I've been single for a year so it's no rush for me in that department.

'Coming on this show was about the next chapter of my life, and you'll have to wait and see whether that's going to be with Shareen or not.'

Married At First Sight airs on Tuesday at 9.30pm on Channel 4.
Facebook has removed a new Trump coronavirus campaign ad and has banned ads supporting QAnon and militarized movements, in its latest effort to tackle the spread of misinformation and extremism ahead of the presidential election.

The social media giant on Wednesday confirmed it took down ads from the Trump campaign that had claimed taking in refugees would increase the risks of COVID-19.

The videos, which featured clips of Joe Biden discussing the border issue, began running on the platform on Tuesday with at least 38 different versions, NBC reported.

'We rejected these ads because we don't allow claims that people's physical safety, health, or survival is threatened by people on the basis of their national origin or immigration status,' spokesperson Andy Stone said.

It also claimed, without evidence, that the Democratic rival would increase the number of refugees accepted into the US by 700 per cent.

Supporters of the QAnon theory protest in Oregon in May. Facebook on Wednesday announced it is continuing its crackdown on militarized social movements and QAnon by banning ads in support of the organizations

The Proud Boys is a far-right fraternal organization that was founded on the idea that white men and western culture are under siege and champions being 'anti-political correctness' and 'venerating the housewife'. Members of the group are seen marching across the Hawthorne Bridge during a rally in Portland, Oregon, on August 17, 2019

The move comes as Facebook announced it is continuing its crackdown on militarized social movements and QAnon by banning ads in support of the organizations.

The company began down-ranking content in restricted pages and groups earlier this month, meaning members would only see it further down in their feed.

'We are also prohibiting anyone on our platform from running ads that praise, support or represent militarized social movements and QAnon,' Facebook said in an update on Wednesday.

In August, Facebook had banned about 900 pages and groups and 1,500 ads tied to the conspiracy theorists which believe the president is secretly fighting against elite Satan-worshiping pedophiles in the government.

The effort was part of what they called a 'policy expansion,' seeking to limit violent rhetoric tied to QAnon, political militias and protest groups like Antifa.

Brian Fishman, who runs Facebook's global counterterrorism team, on Wednesday said they have since identified more than 300 groups under the policy and removed more than 6,500 groups and pages between August 19 and September 15.

Facebook and Twitter have been under immense pressure to false ads and misinformation as well as dangerous conspiracy theories, particularly during an election year.

Brian Fishman, who runs Facebook's global counterterrorism team, said there has been an 'uptick' in content related to the far-right Proud Boys after Trump refused to condemn the white supremacist organization during the presidential debate

President Donald Trump told white supremacists to 'stand back and stand by' when he was challenged to condemn them

Fishman also revealed they have seen an 'uptick' in content related to the far-right Proud Boys after Trump refused to condemn the white supremacist organization during the presidential debate.

He said the content included memes featuring Trump's instructions to the group to 'stand back and stand by.'

During the debate, Trump deflected an opportunity to denounce white supremacists and militia groups amid violence that has marred some protests against racism and police brutality across the country.

'Proud Boys, stand back and stand by,' Trump said, before immediately pivoting: 'But I'll tell you what, somebody's got to do something about antifa,' he said, referencing the largely unstructured, anti-fascist movement.

Extremism experts warned the president's response could embolden Proud Boys supporters, who promptly circulated memes quoting the president's words on various social networks.

Most of the content Facebook identified on Wednesday condemned the Proud Boys and Trump's comments about them, but the company was removing any posts it found that praised the group, Fishman said.

In 2018, Facebook banned the Proud Boys, which the Southern Poverty Law Center classifies as a hate group, and it has removed three networks of related accounts and content this year.

Still, the world's biggest social network failed to catch organizers publicizing a rally in Portland earlier this month, which went on for weeks before it was spotted by the Tech Transparency Project, an outside watchdog group.

On Wednesday, Trump supporters in Facebook Groups - which the company has promoted heavily this year, despite concerns about the difficulty of moderating those spaces - defended the Proud Boys and accused left-wing protesters of being 'domestic terrorists.'

Twitter on Wednesday also announced it had removed 130 accounts from Iran that 'were attempting to disrupt the public conversation during the first 2020 US Presidential Debate'

Above is a tweet from one of many Twitter accounts from Iran that had joined the online conversation during the presidential debate

Twitter said the tweets (pictured) had 'very low engagement'

One member of the 30,000-member Trump Train MAGA Group called the Proud Boys 'hardcore patriotic Americans.'

Facebook and Twitter have been under immense pressure to crack down on ads and misinformation as well as dangerous conspiracy theories, particularly during an election year.

Included in its update on Wednesday was Facebook's decision to ban ads on the platform and Instagram that call voting fraud widespread, or election results invalid, or impugn any one method of voting.

The company announced the new rules in a blog post, adding to earlier restrictions on premature claims of election victory.

The move comes a day after President Donald Trump used the first televised debate with Democratic challenger Joe Biden to amplify his baseless claims that the election will be 'rigged.'

Twitter on Wednesday also announced it had removed 130 accounts from Iran that 'were attempting to disrupt the public conversation during the first 2020 US Presidential Debate.'

'We identified these accounts quickly, removed them from Twitter, and shared full details with our peers, as standard,' the company tweeted from its safety account.

'They had very low engagement and did not make an impact on the public conversation. Our capacity and speed continue to grow, and we'll remain vigilant.'
It was a Saturday in early June when the outrage erupting in the streets of Washington, D.C., and other cities shut down work on a digital play that was being meticulously assembled, day after day, on Zoom.

The actors, writers and directors collaborating on "Being Here" for Solas Nua, a 15-year-old company in the District of Columbia specializing in Irish culture, were deeply shaken by the Black Lives Matter protests, arising after the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis police custody. So shaken that they became convinced that the interactive play they were devising - in response to the covid-19-induced shutdown of theaters - was no longer relevant.

"I want to be out there," Solomon Parker, an actor, said wistfully of the demonstrations, in a Zoom meeting that day.

"I need to figure out where the piece fits in the wider scheme of things," observed John King, a playwright.

"It's wrong not to include a Black writer in this piece," said Rex Daugherty, the director. "The board," he added, "is fully behind this."

And so, more than a month into building a play remotely, with collaborators sheltering from D.C. to Dublin, late June performances of "Being Here" were canceled. And Daugherty, Solas Nua's artistic director, began to figure out with the help of his team how to push forward anew.

It appeared to an outside observer following the progress of the project that the whole thing might fall apart. But others who had been in the virtual rehearsal room with Daugherty could not imagine the production ceasing then and there.

"Rex won't let that happen," confided Rebecca Wahls, the assistant director at the time.

He didn't. On Thursday, under Daugherty's direction, Solas Nua unveiled online the piece that has emerged from the company's distress: a play with no alphabetical title, just three emojis that, for want of a better solution, has been termed "The Emoji Play." Written by Jeremy Keith Hunter, a Black Washington actor-playwright who came aboard in July, the work is a one-act comedy that takes the form of a digital class in "Social Media for the Young Elderly." Performed on Zoom, with an important supporting performance by WhatsApp, the playlet also involves the relationship between the course's instructors, portrayed by Da'Von Moody, a D.C. actor, and Cormac Elliott, an actor based in London.

If both the play's path and the use of the internet by the audience are somewhat unusual, so was the role I played in watching its development. A critic normally isn't a fly on the wall for the messy gestation period before the birth of a dramatic work. But from the early days of "Being Here" to the ultimate shaping of "The Emoji Play," I was a witness and occasional sounding board.

Daugherty - whose work I've reviewed several times - and I were both interested in how artists and critics could learn more about each other's functions, could demystify our roles in some small way. Social media has brought many reviewers into far closer proximity with theater artists than ever before. It occurred to us that exploring how the mistrust that often develops between critics and artists might be mitigated was worthwhile, especially when live theater has been sidelined and many theater events are occurring in the digital space.

I ended up learning far more than I contributed. I gained an appreciation for all of the granular exertions that go into making a play, the thousands of daily questions and decisions; the contributory sources of inspiration that affect every aspect of what an audience eventually sees. An actor can point a playwright to a line that's funnier than the one he composed; a designer can illuminate for the director the meaning of a scene.

The exigencies of a theater company of limited means sometimes clash with the practical needs of its artists. After the workshop and rehearsal of "Being Here," original actors Parker and Josh Adams had to leave because of prior commitments. The protracted period of development that resulted in "The Emoji Play" also claimed Wahls, who left for graduate school at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh. Moody - Parker's roommate - and Elliott were then cast in Hunter's play, and Mekala Sridhar, now based in San Diego but who previously worked at D.C.'s Studio Theatre, replaced Wahls as assistant director.

At the center throughout the nearly half-year of development have been Navid Azeez, a D.C. musician-actor who serves as technical director, and Daugherty, who after covid-19 struck found a new mission in exploring the meaning of theater on the web.

" 'The Emoji Play' cannot proceed without an audience. It is baked into the bones of the show," he said. "What feels special is you feel needed. That's my theory of what will make this feel like theater. That has been my first fascination with this moment. The second was, how do we create more seats at the table?"

The project grew out of another cancellation, a big production for Solas Nua: a revival of John Millington Synge's "The Playboy of the Western World," in which Moody was supposed to play the lead. That production was to have 11 actors and a support team of 11. The pandemic scuttled the show, which was to have cost $46,000, and some fraction of that money was redirected to the new project.

"Of course there have been challenges, and we're still finding out how technology helps and hinders," Daugherty said recently. "I told the team this feels like an ensemble. We've created that same vulnerability that you feel when you are in the room together. It takes extra generosity to channel that energy through the screen."

Indeed, some of the creators of "The Emoji Play" have never met in person; they know each other only as digital talking heads. While Moody rehearses in his apartment in Silver Spring, Md., Elliott works from his flat in London. King, who is working on a separate digital play for Solas Nua that uses Google Maps, follows along from Dublin, and Sridhar keeps track of the process from California.

"On one hand, Zoom gives you access to literally any actor you want, because it doesn't matter where you are," said Hunter, who lives in Waldorf, Md. "However, there just simply is no replacement for (live) theater. As connected as we are, there is no replacement for if we were sitting around each other at a table."

"On screen," he continued, "there are delays, there's a lag, there's an internet outage. Anything can come and derail the momentum. Whereas in the space, you're all focused on it."

Watching the creative team wrestle with devising something that people would want to actively respond to has been the challenge from the start. "What is our plan if the audience absolutely refuses to engage in the chat?" was a question Azeez posed all the way back on May 6, the first day I was permitted to eavesdrop. It remained the struggle, as the team went through multiple workshops and formal rehearsals. At one early point, a virtual character called DOLL-E was invented as an intermediary between audience and actors, but that proved too artificial and was dropped.

Eventually, the tumult of the Black Lives Matter movement, not the pandemic, pushed Daugherty and Solas Nua in a direction that gave the project both an impetus and shape. The artistic director was looking to enlist a playwright of color to broaden perspective and, he said, expand the company's relationship with artists outside its traditional scope. "Rex reached out to me via email," Hunter recalled. "I said, 'OK, what do you need me to do?' "

Hunter went to work over the summer, conferring with King via Zoom breakout rooms and coming up with what would become "The Emoji Play." In a workshop in late July, and in rehearsals in September, Elliott and Moody submitted to the seemingly endless revisions and refinements that the team debated.

As late as mid-September, they were all finding the rhythm of the piece, which starts with the character called Da'Von welcoming the audience to the class, and that shifts to Da'Von's trying to draw out the character called Cormac on the sensitive subject of his breakup with his lover. As Moody is American and Elliott is Irish, some cultural references still had to be clarified: At one point on Sept. 14, Elliott finished reading through a sequence and had the rest of the Zoom panelists in stitches when he asked: "What is 'Popeye's chicken?' "

Now, at long last, all those twists and turns have resulted in a work that is being shared with the public through Oct. 11, for $20 a pop. "Rex has described this as a laboratory for trying things out. That's a luxury you don't always get as a theater artist," King said. "It's not like anything I've ever experienced before."

- - -

http://www.solasnua.org/blog/2020/9/5/-a-digital-theatre-world-premiere
Two days after the rift in the AIADMK came to the open at the partys Executive Committee meeting on Monday, both the camps continued to hold closed door meetings on Wednesday while Forest Minister Dindigul C Srinivasan gave some clue on the lines in which the compromise formula was being worked out.

Srinivasan indicated to media persons, who managed to catch him on the phone, that Edappadi K Palaniswami would be announced as the next Chief Ministerial candidate on the scheduled date of October 7. He said that there was no infighting in the AIADMK.

But in Chennai Chief Minister Palaniswami and Deputy Chief Minister O Pannerselvam, who are fighting tooth and nail to be the next Chief Ministerial candidate, not only went about their official outings but were also closeted with their respective supporters chalking out their plan of action.

Sources said that both the sides would sit down to thrash out the matter on Saturday and most probably Pannerselvam might agree to his becoming the full-fledged convener or general secretary of the party in lieu of Palaniswami being announced as the Chief Ministerial candidate.

In the event of both the sides not coming to an agreement by October 7, the next showdown would be at the General Council meeting, to which both Palaniswami and Panneerselvam are said to be mobilizing supporters.

The huge gathering at the General Council could help them sort out their differences by displaying their support bases and both are gearing up for that.

On Tuesday evening, Panneerselvam, who was planning to leave for his hometown near Theni, triggered rumours of his resignation from the Deputy Chief Minister post as his personal car with the party flag fluttering in the front was spotted driving up to the porch.

While he had asked for the personal car since it was a long drive to his home town, onlookers speculated on his possible abandoning the official car with the national tricolor on the bonnet as a prelude to his abdicating office.

Also when the Deputy Chief Minister did not take part in the Chennai Corporations function at Island Ground on Wednesday to launch a solid waste management project it gave rise to conjectures. Since the Chief MInister and a host of other Ministers were present at the event, people started guessing if Panneerselvam was boycotting the event or was going to give up his post.

However, when Fisheries Minister D Jayakumar was asked about it, he clarified that it was not a major government event and the Deputy Chief Minister was not invited to all events that happened in the State. But the front page advertisement for the event in select newspapers without the Deputy Chief Ministers name was also one reason for the doubts that were raised.

On his part, Pannerselvam attended a meeting of the CMDA at around 11 am but only after going into a huddle with his supporters in the AIADMK like Manoj Pandian and K P Munusamy. Even Palaniswami had meetings with his supporters.
(Newser)  A Colorado police officer ignored a Black woman's cries of "I can't breathe" while she lay hogtied in the back of a patrol car, her face on the floor. That's according to bodycam footage revealed Tuesday during an appeal hearing for now former Aurora police officer Levi Huffine, who was fired in February, per the Denver Post. He'd arrested Shataean Kelly, 28, on Aug. 27, 2019, after an alleged fight. Handcuffed in the back of the patrol car, Kelly tried to open the door. Huffine then said he would "hobble" her for "trying to get out." Kelly was removed and her feet tied to her handsthough this was totally unnecessary, Police Chief Vanessa Wilson said at the Zoom hearing. She noted "there's no escaping" as the car's rear doors won't open from the inside, per CBS News. Huffine declined calling for medical help before Kelly was returned to the back seat, where she cried that she couldn't breathe.

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Kelly asked Huffine to help her sit up, shouting aggressively when he didn't, per CBS. She then tumbled to the floor with her feet above her head. She apologized, saying she couldn't breathe and felt like her neck might break. "I'm a good person, I'm just under the influence ... Please don't let me die back here," she said. "I beg you, master." She added, "I never felt so much racism in my life," per CBS Denver. Kelly remained upside-down for 21 minutes before arriving at a jail. "She decided she wanted to roll," Huffine told an inquiring officer, per CBS. Kelly said, "He was gonna kill me." She easily could've died of positional asphyxia, Wilson said. "She was just tortured back there." Huffine is to discuss the transport at a Thursday hearing before Aurora's Civil Service Commission decides whether to uphold his termination. Wilson overruled a review board suggestion of a 180-day suspension. (Read more police misconduct stories.)
BJP leader and one of the prime



accused in recruitment scam, Diban Deka, has surrendered before the in the state's Barpeta district.

Deka, who, along with former DIG PK Dutta, had been absconding since the scam came to light, surrendered on Wednesday night in Pathacharkuchi area, a officer said.

He has been brought to Guwahati for further interrogation, the officer said.

Examination to recruit unarmed sub-inspectors was cancelled on September 20, minutes after it began, as the question paper was found to have been leaked on social media.

Over 20 people have been arrested in this connection.

State Level Police Recruitment Board (SLPRB) chairman Pradeep Kumar subsequently resigned on September 27 taking "moral responsibility" for the leak.

Police had issued look out notices and announced an award of Rs one lakh each for any information which could lead to the arrest of Deka and Dutta.

The former DIG is yet to be traced and it is suspected that he was holed up somewhere near the India-Nepal border.

Deka was questioned by the CID after the scam had surfaced, but was allowed to go as there was "no circumstantial evidence against him".

Shortly after, he went missing.

On September 24, however, he took to Facebook to claim that his life was in danger.

Deka said he was involved with the "company" which was responsible for conducting the exam.

He identified himself as the executive member of the BJP's Kisan Morcha and said he would not do anything to bring disrepute to the saffron party.

He also said that he had flagged the leak after receiving a copy of the question paper on WhatsApp.

Deka said he has "left fearing for his life". He further said that he might get killed anytime as many big and corrupt officials are involved in the scam.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Robert Redfield wanted to extend the agency's No Sail Order for cruise ships set to expire on Wednesday, but was blocked by the White House, The New York Times reports.

At the beginning of the pandemic, there were several coronavirus outbreaks on cruise ships; the Diamond Princess, for example, saw 700 of its 3,711 passengers and crew members test positive for COVID-19, with 14 dying. Wanting to avoid a repeat of this, Redfield argued the No Sail Order, which went into effect in April as a way of combating the coronavirus, should be extended until mid-February 2021, but he was overruled during a White House Coronavirus Task Force meeting on Tuesday, the Times reports. The task force decided instead ships will be able to set sail after Oct. 31.

The Cruise Lines International Association says the industry generates $53 billion in economic activity every year, and its biggest market in the United States is Florida. Republican politicians in the swing state and cruise industry lobbyists have been arguing that the No Sail Order should not be extended, but White House Deputy Press Secretary Brian Morgenstern told the Times the task force's decision was not politically motivated.

"The president, the vice president, and the task force follow the science and data to implement policies that protect the public health and also facilitate the safe reopening of our country," he said.

More stories from theweek.com

Trump flew to New Jersey for a fundraiser, reportedly after learning Hope Hicks had COVID-19 symptoms

Late night hosts have a pretty good idea why Trump shockingly refuses to condemn white supremacists

7 savagely funny cartoons about the Trump tax revelations


When hundreds of supporters of President Trump gathered for a Labor Day rally in Oregon, a man in the signature black-and-gold shirt of the Proud Boys approached the crowd with a welcoming smile.

If the Republican activists ever needed security for an event, said the man, Flip Todd, the Proud Boys were available. They had sworn loyalty to the country and the president, he said. Well continue to fight for you.

It took only a few hours to demonstrate what that might entail. As some in the rally caravanned by car to Salem, the state capital, the Proud Boys joined a group of right-wing demonstrators who rushed across a street and began attacking people who had set up a leftist counterprotest. At one point, a large man in a bulletproof vest knocked a much smaller counterprotester to the ground, an event the Proud Boys celebrated later when they posted video of the attack. Hulk smash! it said.

The far-right band of brothers who have turned street thuggery into political theater had not quite become a household name before President Trump was asked about the Proud Boys during Tuesday nights presidential debate, and whether he would condemn white supremacists: Proud Boys, he said, stand back and stand by.
The Trump administration told Congress on Wednesday that it will cut the maximum number of refugees admitted to the U.S. to 15,000a record low for people around the world escaping persecution, war, and natural disaster and an escalation of the presidents campaign against immigrants.

In a statement, the State Department says it expects to receive approximately 300,000 new refugees and asylum cases in the fiscal year that began Thursday. Of that number, up to 15,000 refugees would be granted admission to the U.S., while 290,000 new asylum cases will be processed, but the statement does not say whether theyd be admitted. The Washington Post notes that immigration courts determine whether asylum-seekers can stay in the U.S. Unlike refugees, asylum-seekers must already be in the country. Both groups must show proof they can no longer live in their home country without persecution.

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President Donald Trump has decreased refugee admittance numbers yearly since taking office. He first set the cap at 45,000 in fiscal year 2018, down from 110,000 during President Barack Obamas final year in office. That number dropped to 30,000 in 2019 and to 18,000 this year. NBC reports that only 11,800 refugees were admitted this year, though its unclear whether that number is the final total for the fiscal year, which ended Wednesday. In addition, Trump has essentially closed the border to asylum-seekers from Central America and Mexico, citing the coronavirus pandemic.

Subscribe to the Slatest newsletter A daily email update of the stories you need to read right now. We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try again. Please enable javascript to use form. Email address: Send me updates about Slate special offers. By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms Sign Up Thanks for signing up! You can manage your newsletter subscriptions at any time.

According to the Pew Research Center, the U.S. led the world in accepting refugees for decades before Trump took office. Former Vice President Joe Biden has vowed to restore refugee admission to 125,000 if elected this November.

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Shortly before the announcement, Trump attacked refugees, calling them an unwanted burden during a campaign rally in Duluth, Minnesota, a state with one of the largest Somali populations in the country. Biden will turn Minnesota into a refugee camp, and he said thatoverwhelming public resources, overcrowding schools and inundating hospitals, Trump said in his speech. Supporters then chanted Lock her up toward Minnesota Rep. Ilhan Omar, who emigrated from Somalia. Trump also spewed racist attacks against Omar, asking her, How is your country doing? at a campaign rally near Pittsburgh last week.

The announcement also comes just a week after the Trump administration proposed a new rule that would put strict time limits on visas for students from 59 countriesmostly in Africawho are completing degrees or conducting research at U.S. colleges and universities.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: Footwear major Skechers India on Thursday announced the appointment of Bollywood actor Siddhant Chaturvedi as its first brand ambassador.

"Skechers is launching a new campaign featuring Gully Boy actor Siddhant Chaturvedi, who will be the first Indian brand ambassador for Skechers and will represent both lifestyle and performance collections," the company said in a statement.

The "Go Like Never Before" campaign featuring Chaturvedi will be exclusive to the Indian market and emphasizes the importance of running as a sport to remain fit and encourages people to stay active in their day-to-day routine.

Skechers Chief Operating Officer David Weinberg said, "We transitioned our business in India to a wholly-owned subsidiary in early 2019 because we believe in this market and see the incredible growth potential delivering our comfortable, innovative and stylish lifestyle and performance products to the 1.3 billion consumers here."

"That is why we're investing in this campaign and partnering with an influential star-like Siddhant Chaturvedi," he added.

In February 2019, Skechers USA bought Kishore Biyani-led Future Group's 49 percent stake in its Indian joint venture (JV).

Post this, Skechers India became a wholly-owned subsidiary of the American footwear major.
NEW YORK, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The ANA Educational Foundation (AEF) has announced a series of events, activations and commitments to advance its mission of making the advertising and marketing industries more diverse and inclusive.

The AEF will present a high-profile panel at Advertising Week 2020 to directly tackle the central issue of why the advertising industry has largely failed in its mission to attract a critical mass of diverse talent.

The panel, "The Talent Disconnect: Are We Losing The Battle to Attract The Best and Most Diverse Talent to Our Industry?", is scheduled for October 5, 11:30am-12:00pm EST during Advertising Week 2020, a now-virtual event that has been reimagined for a global audience. (Info/registration: The Talent Disconnect.)

This keynote event is just one piece of the AEF's aggressive agenda to help rebalance the advertising and marketing industry. "This year was a time of dramatic transformation for the ANA Educational Foundation, and its work has never been more important," says Gordon McLean, President & Chief Executive Officer, the ANA Educational Foundation.

"Covid-19 completely disrupted university campuses, as professors struggled to adapt to online teaching and students had their career plans entirely upended. The subsequent economic collapse has forced the industry to pull back from its broader entry level recruitment efforts, but the reckoning around racial equality has catapulted diverse hiring and talent development to the top of every marketer's priority list," McLean added.

The AEF recently named Chris Macdonald, Global President For Advertising & Allied Agencies, McCann Worldgroup, as its new Chair. "We're glad to have Chris on board as our chair, and to have McCann Worldgroup as one of our agency partners helping us to realize the urgency of our mission to rebalance the industry," McLean says.

Macdonald will moderate the AdWeek 2020 panel, which is comprised of a group of diversity advocates, including: Elizabeth Rutledge, Chief Marketing Officer, American Express; Vijay Viswanathan, Associate Dean of IMC and Associate Professor, Medill School, Northwestern University in Chicago; and Symirah Graham, a student in the Strategic Management Communications program at Howard University.

Macdonald said of his appointment, "The AEF really is the bridge that connects agencies and marketers to academia and is uniquely positioned to help us attract the best and most diverse talent to our industry. I believe passionately in this mission and am delighted to take the chair at such a critical time."

The AEF agenda for 2021, McLean says, includes achieving more scale for all of the AEF's talent and education programs by leveraging new virtual capabilities while advancing the ANA CMO Global Growth Council's talent priorities by better connecting the industry to academia and achieving true diversity through the marketing talent ecosystem.

The AEF also plans to expand its Marketing and Advertising Education (MADE) internship program, grow the Campus Speakers Program, expand its virtual Visiting Professor Program, convene six Conferences on Campus, and increase online momentum with its Advertising & Society Quarterly academic journal.

The "Talent Disconnect" panel at Advertising Week 2020 will dig deeper than the disappointing numbers for diversity representation to examine the academic, cultural, agency and corporate environments that contribute to the lack of diverse representation in the advertising ecosystem.

Examples of issues that the panel may examine include: Why don't students who are BIPOC see the advertising industry as an interesting or attractive career path? Do ad agencies and clients know how to work with colleges and universities to explain the real-world dynamics of the industry? How do agencies and clients present a picture of "a day in the life" in the advertising and marketing industry? How can companies whose leadership profiles skew 85% white males hope to reach BIPOC?

ABOUT THE AEF

The AEF is the bridge that connects the advertising, marketing and academic communities. We educate and inspire the next generation of talent while advancing the understanding of marketing and advertising in society. Created in 1983 and supported by its three constituencies, advertising, media and marketing, the AEF is a 501(c)3 operating foundation. We create and distribute educational content to improve the understanding and appreciation of the societal role of advertising and marketing through our programs on college campuses across the country.

ABOUT McCANN WORLDGROUP

McCann Worldgroup, part of the Interpublic Group (NYSE: IPG), is a leading global marketing solutions network whose professionals are united across 100+ countries by a single vision: To help brands play a meaningful role in people's lives. McCann Worldgroup was named "Global Agency Of The Year" by Adweek magazine, "Network of the Year" by the Cannes Lions, the world's most creatively-effective marketing services company by the Effie Awards (for three consecutive years), "Global Network of the Year" by Campaign Magazine and "Network of The Year" by The Webby Awards. Fast Company named McCann Worldgroup to its list of The World's Most Innovative Companies. The network comprises McCann (advertising), MRM (science/technology/relationship marketing), Momentum Worldwide (total brand experience), McCann Health (professional/dtc communications), CRAFT (production), Weber Shandwick (public relations) and FutureBrand (consulting/design).

SOURCE McCann Worldgroup

Related Links

http://www.mccannworldgroup.com


My own response is that it makes me despondent about America, said John Sawers, a former British diplomat and head of a risk analysis firm. The country we have looked to for leadership has descended into an ugly brawl.

A shift: The Commission on Presidential Debates said it would change its format after Mr. Trumps constant interruptions during the first of three debates leading up to the Nov. 3 election. There may be new limits on speaking times. There is no decision yet on allowing the moderator to cut off microphones.

Analysis: Mr. Trumps claim that balloting, already underway, was a fraud and a shame and proof of a rigged election amounted to a declaration that he would try to throw any outcome into the courts, Congress or the streets if he were not re-elected, our national security correspondent writes.

Response: Republicans distanced themselves from Mr. Trump over his failure to condemn white supremacy during the debate, as he faced a torrent of criticism. Members of the Proud Boys, a far-right group that has endorsed violence, were jubilant.

The election is also making investors nervous. The S&P stock index had its first monthly drop since March, finishing September down 4 percent, as investors prepared for instability after the election.
CANBERA (dpa-AFX) - Australia will on Friday release August numbers for retail sales, highlighting a light day for Asia-Pacific economic activity. Sales are tipped to fall 4.2 percent on month after rising 3.2 percent in July. Japan will see August figures for unemployment and September data for consumer confidence. The jobless rate is expected to rise to 3.0 percent from 2.9 percent in July, with the job-to-applicant ratio slipping to 1.05 from 1.08. The consumer confidence index score in August was 29.3. Finally, the markets in Taiwan, China and Hong Kong remain closed on Thursday and Friday for the Mid-Autumn Festival; Taiwan and Hong Kong return to action on Monday, while China is off until next Thursday. South Korea is also off until Monday for the Chuseok Festival. 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.
People are seen through a hole of a house damaged by a rocket attack in the Abu Ghraib district, on the outskirts of Baghdad, Iraq, on Sept. 29, 2020. (Saba Kareem/Reuters)

US Outraged by Baghdad Rocket Attack: State Department

The State Department said on Sept. 29 that the United States is outraged by Mondays rocket attack in Baghdad, Iraq, that killed six Iraqi civilians, and called on the Iraqi government to take action against those responsible.

The six Iraqi civiliansall women and childrenwere killed when two militia rockets struck a family home Monday in Baghdads Radwaniyah neighborhood. The Iraqi capitals international airport, which is nearby, was the intended target, security officials believe.

The attack came as the United States threatened the closure of its embassy in the city unless Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimis administration reins in Iran-backed armed groups responsible for frequent rocket fire and roadside bomb attacks targeting American personnel in the country.

We are outraged by yesterdays rocket attack in Baghdad that killed civilians, including a mother and her children, State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said in a statement. We express our condolences to the innocent Iraqi people and their families who were victims, once again, of these ruthless acts of violence.

Responding to warnings from the United States that it could close its embassy in Baghdad, a spokesman for the prime minister said Tuesday that it would have disastrous repercussions for the region.

The withdrawal or closure of any diplomatic mission of any country will have disastrous repercussions for the entire region, spokesman Ahmed Mulla Talal said.

Mourners pray near coffins containing the dead bodies of victims, who were killed in rocket attacks, in Abu Ghraib district, on the outskirts of Baghdad, Iraq, on Sept. 29, 2020. (Khalid al-Mousily/Reuters)

He said the al-Kadhimi administration rejected any attempts to turn Iraq into an arena of conflict between the United States and Iran.

The attacks have not let up, despite the warnings from the United States.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, however U.S. officials said Shiite extremists aligned with Iran are responsible. The group previously has targeted Baghdads international airport and the U.S. Embassy in the citys heavily fortified international Green Zone.

A child was injured in July after a rocket fired toward the embassy landed near a house.

According to AFP, there have been roughly 39 rocket and bomb attacks in Iraq targeting the U.S. presencealmost the same figure as attacks between October 2019 and July 2020.

A girl is seen outside a house damaged by a rocket attack in the Abu Ghraib district, on the outskirts of Baghdad, Iraq, on Sept. 29, 2020. (Saba Kareem/Reuters)

Iran-backed extremists have ramped up their rocket attacks this year following the U.S.-approved drone strike of Iranian commander Qassem Soleimani, who was accused of killing hundreds of American troops over the years. Iran then fired a barrage of about two-dozen rockets, hitting two military bases housing American soldiers in Iraq.

Days before the Soleimani airstrike, Iran-backed extremist groups were seen attempting to enter the U.S. Embassy, setting one structure on fire.

The Iraqi people deserve to live in safety and security, so we call on Iraqi officials to take immediate action to hold the perpetrators accountable, Ortagus added. We have made the point before that the actions of lawless Iran-backed militias remains the single biggest deterrent to stability in Iraq.

These militias pose an unacceptable danger to everyone in Iraq, from diplomatic officials and facilities to Iraqi activists and families.

Jack Phillips and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Today, Google announced plans to invest $1 billion in partnerships with news publishers. With that money, Google will pay publishers to curate content for a new product, the Google News Showcase. This should ensure that users get high-quality content, and it appears to be Googles latest effort to improve its relationship with publishers.

Tech companies like Google and Facebook are sometimes blamed for the demise of the news industry, and both have been figuring out ways to promote quality content, especially in the face of rampant fake news. In June, Google said it would pay publishers for high-quality journalism, but we didnt know how much the company would commit. In 2018, Google invested $300 million in fighting fake news and promoting reliable journalism. Its also done things like waive ad servicing fees for publishers and offer free G-Suite licenses to small-scale journalism.

But Google is currently involved in legal fights in Australia and France over whether it should pay for news. This $1 billion fund might be an attempt to contribute to the news industry and potentially skirt new laws that would otherwise force the company to do so. It might also prevent legal battles in other countries.

Google News Showcase is launching in Germany and Brazil today. Google has already signed partnerships with nearly 200 publications in Argentina, Australia, Canada and the UK, so we can expect to see the service in those countries sooner rather than later. Google News Showcase will appear on Android first, but Google says it will launch on iOS eventually. It will also make its way to Google Discover and Search.
Insurance fraud seems like it might be an easy thing to do. Insurance companies are often so huge, one wonders how they might not even notic...
South Africa: Hawks swoop in on Free State asbestos project suspects

Six suspects, among them former and current senior government officials, are expected to appear before the Bloemfontein Magistrates Court on fraud and corruption charges related to the 2014 Free State Asbestos Project.

This comes after the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), also known as the Hawks, swooped on the six suspects during a simultaneous operation in the Free State, KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng on Wednesday.

Among those arrested are three senior government officials, three businessmen and five companies, said Hawks spokesperson Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi in a statement.

The accused face 60 charges which include corruption, fraud, and money laundering in contravention of the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act (POCA) as well as Contravention of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA).

The arrests emanate from a joint investigation by the Free State Serious Corruption Investigation, Special Investigating Unit (SIU), and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).

This followed a referral from the SIU under Proclamation R39 of 2019, which led to the subsequent criminal investigation by the Hawks who worked closely with the NPA and its various units.

The allegations relate to a contract that was awarded through a procurement process that was done in a fraudulent and corrupt manner.

In addition, certain public officials received gratification from the contracted company and/or an individual amounting to several counts of corruption.

The contract was meant to identify and remove asbestos roofs in the Free State province and failed to conduct due diligence process before participating in the contract, reads the statement.

The Hawks also alleged that the Provincial Department created an impression that they participated in a contract concluded by the Gauteng Human Settlement Department while the services were not the same as specified in the existing contract and and also the price was higher in contravention of Treasury regulations.

During the period the department incurred unauthorised, irregular or fruitless and wasteful expenditure worth over R255 million.

A warrant of arrest has been obtained for a suspect in KwaZulu-Natal who has remained unaccounted for.  SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2020-10-01. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
KAMPALA  Experts have called for the streamlining of the Oil and Gas sector in a bid to lay a firm ground for Ugandas future exploration.

While commemorating 6th Annual Oil and Gas Convention 2020, experts noted that funding in the oil sector needs to be streamlined stating governments participation and how to spur growth in the private sector.

According to Prof Waswa Balunywa, the Principal Makerere University Business School who moderated the discussion, avenues how the private sector can benefit from the oil sector, who are the drivers of this and how the government facilitate the process all need to be spelled out.

We are looking at how the state will participate and facilitate the development of the sector. It is taking some bit of time for us to be able to enjoy the benefits of what we discovered as a country and there have been challenges. In terms of funding UNOC is a government company, we cannot say it is a private company, he said.

Balunywa added that although the government of Uganda has not resolved some issues, on ideological strategy, it has committed itself to taking 15% in the oil sector and it raises other issues.

Mr Moses Kaggwa the Director Economic Affairs in the Ministry of Finance explains that the total investment that is required for all the projects for state participation is 845.9 million dollars that includes the crude oil pipeline which is about 213 USD and the refinery which is about 480 USD.

With financing, we are looking at how much we can get from our domestic budget, out of the 45 trillion shillings from this year, we could only give them 31billion because of the pressing needs. Next year we do not see much revenues coming in from our domestic resources because COVID has impacted greatly, so we have to sort for other areas to get the needed revenue, he said.

Mr Kaggwa added that they are also looking at doing this (securing the funding) through an infrastructure bond partnering with NSSF to see how they can finance the project.

The delay in financing will cost us dearly because we have delayed taking the Final Investment Decision (FID). It should have been taken like four years ago but because of the challenges we have, we delayed and we want to take it in this financial year, if we do not take it then it will cost us a lot in terms of money.

According to Mr Emmanuel Katongole the Board Chair, Uganda Oil National Company, the ministry of finance has been doing their best to make sure the funds are availed.

We all know the funds (USD845millions) if all borrowed could exceed he borrowing limit as a country. We have got all the assurance that the government of Uganda is doing whatever it takes to make sure this money is available and I have no doubt in my mind that the money will be available, he explained.

Drawing examples from International Oil Companies, Mr Katongole argues that other than commitment from their national treasury, National Oil Companies have access to direct exploration licences and in Uganda this has been provided for by law.

Mr Richard Byarugaba, the Managing Director NSSF shares that as a fund, they cannot participate in debt but can only participate in the equity structure.

He explains that people tend to avoid the different stages of financing and come in at the process where production has started and there is visible part of the market that is available and customers identified.

This he says enables them to go in knowing how much the company will be making, how the product is being distributed, who the customers are and the cash values generated out of the business.

I have seen nothing and I really cant say anything about whether we can put in money or not. I think it is important we look at what has to happen, we look at the structure of the company, we do not know who the shareholder is, we do not know what the corporate governance structure is, we do not know who calls the shots and this is really an opaque structure that does not give any comfort to an investor.

Mr Jimmy Mugerwa, an expert with over 25 years experience in the Oil and Gas sector said 19 out of the top 25 Oil Companies in the world are National Oil Companies because they own the resource.

We are talking about funding and we seem to be looking at issues and losing out the opportunity. The opportunity we are talking about from a project perspective, is a project that is going to generate 200,000 barrels a day of which the government will take 15% of this. Yes at the moment it seems we have issues with funding but if this project is bankable, you will actually discover that funding is a smaller issue. 90% of resources in the world are owned by National Oil Companies. What we are looking at is a baby in UNOC that is being born and I can tell you the potential is huge, he shared.

Mr Mugerwa added that he wants to encourage the government to start dialogue on how they can fund themselves to ensure that they capture this opportunity since at the moment, the government has spent a lot of time negotiating how it can turn this into an opportunity.

Related
Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia said he was shocked to hear the flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) had promised to build a mortuary in Zongo communities.



He explained that, the number one priority of people living in Muslim communities is education thus wondered who gave John Mahama that idea.



Mortuaries are not the most important priority in Zongos; they need knowledge and education he stated while reacting to it on Asempa FMs Ekosii Sen programme Wednesday.



Mr. Mahama was lampooned for promising to construct not less than 300 morgues in Zongo communities if he comes to power again.



But the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) described his promise as harem since Muslims dont keep their dead in the morgue.



The NDC later came to refuse the report insisting that, Mr. Mahama only promised to facilitate the establishment of mortuaries in accordance with Islamic custom and practices.



Reacting to this, Dr. Bawumia said it is obvious the NDC was just making the promise just for political points.



A mortuary in Zongos, in his opinion is just an election winning gimmick which will never materialise.



So far, the Vice President said the NPP has proven to have the development of Muslim communities at heart.



Through the Zongo Ministry, Dr. Bawumia said they intent to build 16 model Senior High Schools in Zongo in all 16 regions of Ghana.



They want to build mortuaries but we want to build schools in Zongos; that is the difference between NDC and NPP he added.







Source: adomonline.com









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New Delhi, Oct 1 : The Indian Army said on Thursday that Pakistan is making attempts to defame the force and create a divide within it through its malicious campaign.

In a statement, the Indian Army said that over the past few days, a state sponsored malicious social media disinformation campaign has been run by Pakistan against the Indian Army, and in particular against Lt Gen Taranjit Singh, a senior officer posted in the Department of Military Affairs (DMA).

"Having failed consistently to incite religion-based disaffection within the country, Pakistan, in a desperate attempt, is now trying to create a divide within the Indian Army," the force said.

The Indian Army also categorically rejected all such malicious attempts to defame the institution, saying the force is a secular organisation and all the officers and soldiers serve the nation with pride, irrespective of their religion, caste, creed or gender.

Pakistan has been running a campaign on social media that Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (Operation), Lt Gen Taranjit Singh, has been detained on the order of Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat after he took a stand against the policies of the Narendra Modi-led government.

"Finally, Indian Army is heading towards end," the campaign by Pakistan said.
Officers were stationed on virtually every corner of the Causeway Bay shopping district, searching everyone from the young to the elderly. During the course of the afternoon, police cordoned off dozens of people, lined them up against a wall, handcuffed them and marched them away. By 6 p.m., police said they had arrested 69 people, including two local legislators known as district councilors.
The states domestic violence hotline added a new texting feature in 2018. Text messages also soared during the pandemic from 10 or less per month for March through July of 2019 to well over 100 texts per month during the same months of 2020. So far, May 2020 registered the highest number of texts ever at 116.
EDWARDSVILLE  The cozy little neighborhood bookstore wont be opening its doors anytime soon, but Afterwords Books has managed to survive during the pandemic.

The bookstore, located at 441 E. Vandalia St. in Edwardsville, is among many small businesses that have had to adapt due to the coronavirus. Store owner LuAnn Locke decided to close the shop before any mandates were issued by Madison County or the Illinois Department of Public Health.

At best, were looking at next year sometime to reopen the store, Locke said. Back in March, we thought it would be two weeks and people would stay at home and wear a mask and it would all boil over, but thats not how it happened.

I also have a son who is in fifth grade this year, so were doing remote learning. Like a lot of other families, were trying to juggle our family responsibilities with keeping our small business afloat.

Locke realized early on that keeping the bookstore open would present too much of a risk for her and her customers and provided a detailed explanation of her decision on the stores website.

Because our shop is so small, its just not feasible for us to open our doors and have folks come in, Locke said. You cant do any browsing, but you can browse online.

A loyal base of online customers, most of them former in-person customers, have helped to keep Locke in business.

As always, were fortunate to be part of the community that we live in, Locke said. The folks here are very supportive of the Shop Local movement and because our business is retail, were not hurting as much as restaurants and some other small businesses.

We offer porch pickup, so there is no contact whatsoever, plus folks can shop online and they can call the store. We can send them an invoice online and they can come by and pick up their order.

Locke has tried to find creative ways to attract customers, including the Boredom Busting Bookstore Bundle, which is available for $35 each and sold for porch pickup. Each bundle is first-come, first-served, and prepayment is required. Some bundles include both new and gently loved books plus a little surprise as a token of our appreciation, according to the website.

Every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., weather permitting, we put our blue bargain book carts, which are stacked with all kinds of different genres and all of those books are $1 apiece, Locke said. We have a little red cash box next to the front door and there is a lot more money than there are books, so lots of people are donating. Folks want to see us stick around and open back up when we can.

Putting the stores inventory online was a time-consuming process, but the response from customers has made it worthwhile.

We have moved virtually all of the inventory in the store, which is primarily used books, online so folks who have store credit with us can use it, Locke said. Weve had a trade for credit program for the past 11 years and some people have accumulated lots of store credit that they would like to use.

We have converted that into e-gift cards for those people to shop online for used books. As long as people bring us their used books that they dont want anymore, we can stay afloat. When people drop off those books on our front porch, we quarantine them for several days before we go through them.

Locke tries to find a home for all of the books donated to Afterwords Books, whether through the store or elsewhere.

The books that we cant take, whether they are little too well-loved or might not sell, we pass them on to St. Andrews Episcopal Church for their book sales, Locke said. We have been partners with them for the past 11 years and we have donated a lot of books to them.

St. Andrews will hold its second outdoor book sale from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. All items are 50 cents. Masks and social distancing are required. Call 618-656-1294 for more information.

Even before the pandemic, Afterwords Books worked with local businesses to boost the Shop Local philosophy.

Weve always had a great partnership with 222 Artisan Bakery, and they used to host our Saturday morning storytime, Locke said. Folks could go to the farmers market and then come on down to the bakery so their kids could hear stories.

Obviously we havent been able to do storytime for six months and we definitely miss it. But when Kim (Goodner) and Trevor (Taynor), the owners of the bakery, wanted to give books to kids, so when kids came to get free oatmeal in the morning, they could choose a free book.

Locke feels that the were all in this together mentality is more important than ever.

As far as other small businesses, were a pretty tight-knit community and were always giving each other a shout out on social media, Locke said. We want to keep it in the forefront of peoples minds to shop local and keep these businesses in their community. They make it more diverse so its not just a bunch of chain stores.

Locke bought Afterwords Books in 2011 after working for a friend who opened the store in 2009. It is in its third location.

We started on Main Street right next door to Sacred Grounds (Cafe) and then we moved over to Buchanan across from Annies (Frozen Custard), and then we moved to Vandalia, where we are at now, Locke said. Were very excited because we are closing on our building (Thursday), so we wont be moving around anymore on a lease.

While the customers of Afterwords Books will have to wait a little longer to browse the store again, Locke is confident that better days are ahead.

Were in it for the long haul, whatever that looks like, Locke said. Its obviously different now and it may be different next year, but well stick in there as long as we can.

For more information on Afterwords Books, call 618-655-0355, go to https://afterwordsusedbooks.com/ or visit Afterwords Books on Facebook.
SEATTLE, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- In anticipation of Rotterdam's float-out next week, Holland America Line celebrated the ship's coin ceremony today, Thursday, Oct. 1, at Fincantieri's Marghera shipyard in Italy. Following Italian shipbuilding tradition, Mai Elmar, executive director of Cruise Port Rotterdam in the Netherlands, served as the ship's madrina and participated in the festivities.

Click to tweet: Holland America Line celebrates Rotterdam's Coin Ceremony at Fincantieri shipyard. @CruisePortRTM Executive Director Mai Elmar serves as madrina. Ship to be floated out next week.

During the socially responsible ceremony, Dutch coins minted in 1872 to honor Holland America Line's first Rotterdam were welded to the outside deck of the ship to bring good fortune, followed by a blessing by the shipyard chaplain. In attendance were Antonio Quintano, director of the Fincantieri Marghera Shipyard; Cyril Tatar, Holland America Group's vice president of newbuilding services; and Nico Bleichrodt, vice president, international sales, for Holland America Line.

"We are pleased to honor the coin ceremony tradition and celebrate this milestone that signals less than a year until Rotterdam's delivery," said Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line. "With a name like Rotterdam, there is no other person more ideal than Mai Elmar to serve as the ship's madrina. Mai's name is synonymous with the cruise industry in the port city of Rotterdam and she has been a tremendous champion of our brand for decades. We're thrilled to have her take on this special role."

On Oct 7 Rotterdam's drydock will be filled with water and the ship will be floated out to begin the next stage of construction at an outfitting pier. Rotterdam is scheduled to be delivered July 30, 2021.

About Madrina Mai Elmar

For many years, Elmar has dedicated much of her time to the city and port of Rotterdam. Since 2000, she has grown Cruise Port Rotterdam from zero to 102 cruise ships that have visited yearly. She was the first chief marketing officer of Rotterdam city and now serves as executive director of Cruise Port Rotterdam. Elmar was instrumental in designing the brand policy and strategy of the city. From 2011 to 2013, she was director of the ss Rotterdam, the famed hotel ship and former flagship of Holland America Line.

In 2005 Elmar was named Mrs. "Harbor Man of the Year" and received the Wolfert van Borselen medal from the mayor for her efforts for the city of Rotterdam. In 2016 she was made a Knight of the Order of Oranje Nassau, which is awarded for longstanding meritorious service to society, the State or the Royal House.

About Rotterdam VII

The third in the Pinnacle Class series, Rotterdam will carry 2,668 guests, measure 99,800 gross tons and feature highly successful amenities and innovations introduced with her sister ships, including the 270-degree surround screen World Stage, Rudi's Sel de Mer and Grand Dutch Cafe. Delivering the best of everything, Rotterdam celebrates live music with an exclusive collection of world-class performances each night  from Lincoln Center Stage and B.B. King's Blues Club to Rolling Stone Rock Room and Billboard Onboard.

Throughout the ship, Rotterdam will showcase Holland America Line hallmarks that drive one of the highest guest repeat rates in the industry: exquisite cuisine guided by eight of the world's leading chefs; gracious, award-winning service; and superbly appointed staterooms and suites, including family and single accommodations.

Rotterdam is the seventh ship to bear the name for Holland America Line and the 17th ship constructed for the brand by Italian shipyard Fincantieri, which most recently built Nieuw Statendam.

Following Rotterdam's Premiere Voyage departing Aug. 1, 2021, the ship will spend its inaugural summer season in northern Europe. Naming details have not been finalized and will be announced at a later date.

For more information about Holland America Line, contact a travel professional or call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (1-877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.

Find Holland America Line on Twitter, Facebook and the Holland America Blog. Access all social media outlets via the home page at hollandamerica.com.

About Holland America Line [a division of Carnival Corporation and plc (NYSE: CCL and CUK)]

Holland America Line has been exploring the world since 1873 and was the first cruise line to offer adventures to Alaska and the Yukon more than 70 years ago. Its fleet of premium ships visits more than 470 ports in 98 countries around the world, offering an ideal mid-sized ship experience. A third Pinnacle-class ship, Rotterdam, is under construction and will join the fleet in July 2021.

The leader in premium cruising, Holland America Line's ships feature innovative initiatives and a diverse range of enriching experiences focused on destination exploration and personalized travel. The best live music at sea fills each evening at Music Walk, and dining venues feature exclusive selections from Holland America Line's esteemed Culinary Council, comprising world-famous chefs.

In light of COVID-19, Holland America Line is currently assessing enhanced health and safety protocols and how they may impact future cruises. Actual offerings may vary from what is displayed. Stay updated on current Travel Advisories and Health & Safety protocols.

SOURCE Holland America Line

Related Links

http://www.hollandamerica.com


Ivory Coast's former first lady Simone Gbagbo accused the French army of not having protected her from an alleged rape attempt during her 2011 arrest, in an interview broadcast Wednesday on France 24.

She also called for a postponement of October 31 elections in Ivory Coast that have seen tensions run high, with President Alassane Ouattara standing for a third term in what opponents claim is an unconstitutional move.

"I saw them with my own eyes! They were filming," Gbagbo, 71, told the French international news channel of the French soldiers.

She was responding to a question on a claim she made in 2016 that she was the victim of a "rape attempt" when she was arrested in April 2011 along with her husband Laurent Gbagbo, who had refused to cede power to Ouattara following his electoral defeat.

The couple were detained by forces loyal to Ouattara during a French-backed military operation after five months of post-election fighting that claimed at least 3,000 lives.

"They were there when people were chasing us, slaughtering us and I didn't see one single French soldier raise his hand. They were there with cameras," she said.

Footage of the arrest of Ivory Coast's power couple went round the world in 2011.

In it, Simone Gbagbo, considered the power behind the throne during her husband's regime, is seen being pushed around by soldiers.

The former first lady went on trial in Ivory Coast and was jailed, but later amnestied by Ouattara along with some 800 people in the name of national reconciliation.

In the interview, Gbagbo said she thought the elections next month would not take place, stressing that the opposition is against Ouattara standing for re-election as the constitution sets a two-term limit.

Ouattara, 78, and his supporters argue that a 2016 constitutional change reset the clock on his time in office, and that his candidacy is therefore legitimate.

"There won't be any elections, people have already taken to the streets. We're already experiencing violence," she said.

In August, around 15 people were killed in unrest after Ouattara announced he was standing for re-election.
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Britain has announced another 6,914 coronavirus cases as a wave of statistics today suggested the UK's spike in infections is finally starting to slow down  but deaths continue to creep up.

Department of Health figures show the number of daily infections is just 4.2 per cent higher this week than it was last Thursday, when 6,634 positive tests were added to the official count.

Officials today also declared another 59 laboratory-confirmed Covid-19 deaths, up 47.5 per cent on the 40 posted this time last week but down slightly on the 71 registered yesterday. For comparison, more than 1,000 people were dying each day during the darkest weeks of the first wave in April.

Despite fatalities continuing to creep up, data now suggests that the surging numbers of cases which have rattled the nation in recent weeks appear to be slowing down.

Estimates from King's College London's Covid Symptom Study suggest that the rise in daily new cases is only 23 per cent higher than last week, after it more than doubled in the week before.

Although the current numbers of positive tests seem high and are higher than they were during the peak in March and April, the remain only a ripple as scientists predict that more than 100,000 people were catching the virus in the spring and tests would've picked up tens of thousands every day if the same amount of swabs were done then.

And the Government-funded REACT-1 study, carried out by Imperial College London, said there were signs that the R rate has fallen to around 1.1 now, from 1.7 in September, and that cases are now rising less steeply than they were a few weeks ago.

Matt Hancock today stood by the 10pm curfew on pubs and restaurants despite anger it is making things worse. Denying he was taking an axe to civil liberties, Mr Hancock warned letting the virus 'rip' would mean 'hundreds of thousands of deaths'.

But that appears to be significantly more even than the chilling estimates from medical and science advisers Chris Whitty and Patrick Vallance, whose recent worst-case estimate was that the UK could see 50,000 new cases a day and 200 daily deaths - if no action was taken.

The Health Secretary also faced a revolt over new lockdown measures in Liverpool, Hartlepool, Warrington and Middlesbrough, with the mayor of Middlesbrough vowing to 'defy' the tougher restrictions, accusing ministers of 'ignorance' and claiming they went further than he and other local politicians had lobbied for.

In other coronavirus news:

Health Secretary Matt Hancock has been told to 'get his facts straight' after claiming in the House of Commons that vitamin D does not help Covid-19 patients, when studies suggest it may be beneficial;

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps is expected to announce more restrictions on international travel tonight and may add Italy and Greece to the quarantine list;

A study commissioned by London Mayor Sadiq Khan found that black people are up to 1.9 times more likely to die of Covid-19 than white people;

Matt Hancock confirmed that Liverpool and Merseyside will face stricter lockdown rules like those in the North West starting from Saturday .

In the strongest evidence yet that local lockdowns are working, results from the largest Covid-19 study in England found the R-rate fell from 1.7 to around 1.1

Mutiny in Middlesbrough: Town revolts after mayor REFSUES to follow new lockdown rules Independent Andy Preston lashed out after Health Secretary Matt Hancock told MPs the town, along with Liverpool, Hartlepool and Warrington would face the same curbs as the North East Boris Johnson is facing a coronavirus revolt in the north today as the elected mayor of Middlesbrough vowed to 'defy' new lockdown measures, accusing ministers of 'ignorance' after they brought in strict new measures for its population. Independent Andy Preston lashed out after Health Secretary Matt Hancock told MPs the town, along with Liverpool, Hartlepool and Warrington would face the same curbs as the North East. In a video message Mr Preston said they went further than he and other local politicians had lobbied for, and in what is believed to be a first for a local politician, rejected the measures outlined in the Commons. Middlesbrough and Hartlepool councils had asked for a ban on households mixing in their own homes. But Mr Hancock announced it would also be illegal for households in those boroughs to mix in a public setting such as a pub. 'I have to tell you I think this measure has been introduced based on factual inaccuracies and a monstrous and frightening lack of communication, and ignorance,' Mr Preston said in a video posted on Twitter. 'I do not accept the statement at all. I do not accept these measures. We need to talk to government, they need to understand our local knowledge, expertise and ability to get things done, and preserve jobs and well-being. 'We are really disappointed. As things stand we defy the Government and we do not accept these measures. 'We need to get Covid under control and we need to work with people to find a way of preserving jobs and mental health.' As head of the local council Mr Preston has no official powers to over-rule the decision taken by ministers. But he could, in theory, prevent council staff from helping to enforce the pub closures and household meeting ban - though there has been no suggestion yet that he would. Advertisement

NHS England said the patients who had died in its hospitals were aged between 60 and 99 and succumbed to the virus between September 18 and September 30.

Hospitals in the North West accounted for the single largest number  15  along with eight in the North East, six apiece in London and the Midlands, five in the South East, four in the East and none in the South West.

Today's announcement comes as data is beginning to suggest that the sharp rise in cases seen over recent weeks is starting to slow down.

In a now-rare TV briefing yesterday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his top advisers Sir Patrick Vallance and Professor Chris Whitty warned that data is 'going in the wrong direction'.

The PM dismissed pressure from many Tories to change strategy and focus on protecting jobs, saying he would not 'throw in the sponge'.

Critics have argued that recent social distancing measures, including local lockdowns and national restrictions such as 10pm curfews on pubs, are ineffective but are laying waste to businesses and infringing civil liberties.

There has been increasing anxiety - including in Cabinet - about following the ultra-cautious approach from Professor Whitty and Sir Patrick. One senior minister told MailOnline that the government was now 'talking more widely to people with different views'.

While the rate of infection appears to be falling, a stud commissioned by the Department of Health, found that of the volunteers tested between September 18-26, one in 200 people had coronavirus.

It also revealed the virus to be spreading more among young people, while simultaneously laying bare the North-South divide, pointing to the North West as the epicentre of the UK's outbreak.

Professor Paul Elliott, director of the REACT-1 programme at Imperial from the School of Public Health, said: 'While our latest findings show some early evidence that the growth of new cases may have slowed, suggesting efforts to control the infection are working, the prevalence of infection is the highest that we have recorded to date.

'This reinforces the need for protective measures to limit the spread of the disease and the public's adherence to these, which will be vital to minimise further significant illness and loss of life from Covid-19.'

The latest Imperial College study found 55 people per 10,000 tested positive, which is an increase on 13 people per 10,000 from the previous study between August 24 and September 7.

Extrapolating, the data suggests 411,000 people in England have the virus, meaning over one in 200 people were infected at any one time.

Findings also show that the prevalence of infection was the highest among those aged 18-24 - with one in 100 people infected - while cases increased seven-fold in those aged over 65 from 0.04 per cent to 0.29 per cent compared to the last report.

The North West of England, which has seen areas such as Burnley and Liverpool placed under local restrictions, had the highest levels of infection while the number of infections in London increased five-fold from 0.10 per cent to 0.49 per cent.

Professor Steven Riley, one of the scientists running the study said: 'Its not a flattening of the curve  that is not what were reporting.

Researchers on King's College London's Covid Symptom Study now predict that 19,777 people are catching Covid-19 each day in the UK. This suggests testing is picking up around 35 per cent of the true number of cases

FURY AFTER MATT HANCOCK WRONGLY SAID TRIAL HAD FOUND NO EVIDENCE VITAMIN D WORKS As well as in supplements, vitamin D is also available through foods, including oily fish, red meat and eggs (right). A Singaporean study earlier in the year of nearly 800 people found almost 99% of Covid-19 patients who died had vitamin D deficiency (left) Health Secretary Matt Hancock was told to 'get his facts straight' today after shooting down vitamin D as a potential coronavirus treatment despite a growing body of evidence from around the world suggesting it works. Experts have for months been calling for officials to look into the immune system-boosting nutrient's effect on Covid-19 patients after a mountain of research showed a link to vitamin D deficiency. Mr Hancock told the House of Commons last week he had green-lit a Government-funded 'trial' investigating vitamin D and that it did not 'appear to have any impact'. But officials have since admitted that no clinical trials had taken place and claim it was a slip of the tongue from the health secretary - who was also staunchly opposed to face masks in the spring and claimed they were 'extremely weak' in stopping Covid-19's spread. Officials estimate one in five Britons are deficient in vitamin D  the equivalent of 13million Britons. But the rate is up to 90 per cent in people with darker skin, such as BAME populations who are known to be at greater risk from Covid-19. Mr Hancock has now agreed to meet experts to to hear the growing case for the vitamin, which the body produces when exposed to the sun. But his flippant dismissal of vitamin D has sparked fury among scientists and MPs who today said time is running out for ministers to act, as levels of the 'sunshine vitamin' drop dramatically in autumn and winter. Experts said his comments 'displayed incredible ignorance', while Liberal Democrat MP Layla Morgan told MailOnline the secretary of state 'needs to be listening, not dismissing'. She added: 'I hope Matt Hancock will take a less flippant approach to potential treatments in future and get his facts straight before making such comments. We're in a crisis, it's time for politicians to stop playing science and listen to the experts.' A mountain of studies have found an overwhelming amount of people who test positive for Covid-19 do not have enough vitamin D in their bodies and the sickest of patients are often deficient. Scientists have not yet been able to pin down whether the nutrient deficiency is making people more vulnerable to the disease or whether becoming unwell causes vitamin D levels to crash. But vitamin D supplements are safe, cheap and readily available - costing as little as 6p a pill and sold in most pharmacies, supermarkets and health shops - which has left experts baffled as to why Mr Hancock would be so quick to dismiss them. Two leading leading doctors told MailOnline that politicians and scientists were so hellbent on getting a vaccine - the Government has pumped hundreds of millions into jab development projects - that they had overlooked the potential of vitamin D and boosting people's immune systems, which they say is a far less glamorous option. Advertisement

'If were hill-walking  if this epidemic is walking up and down a hill  between rounds four and five [August and September] it was a steep hill We have climbed quite high up the steep hill and the preliminary evidence from round five is that the gradient of the hill has gone down. We dont know that its flat.

'On average, people have changed their behaviour such that the virus is transmitting slightly less We are detecting a little bit of an optimistic sign.'

The worsening situation in the north of England, and the north-south divide that has emerged in infection rates is causing tensions to rise.

Boris Johnson is now facing a revolt in the region as the elected mayor of Middlesbrough vowed to 'defy' new lockdown measures, accusing ministers of 'ignorance' after they brought in strict new measures for its population.

Independent Andy Preston lashed out after Health Secretary Matt Hancock told MPs the town, along with Liverpool, Hartlepool and Warrington would face the same curbs as the North East.

In a video message Mr Preston said they went further than he and other local politicians had lobbied for, and in what is believed to be a first for a local politician, rejected the measures outlined in the Commons.

Middlesbrough and Hartlepool councils had asked for a ban on households mixing in their own homes. But Mr Hancock announced it would also be illegal for households in those boroughs to mix in a public setting such as a pub.

'I have to tell you I think this measure has been introduced based on factual inaccuracies and a monstrous and frightening lack of communication, and ignorance,' Mr Preston said in a video posted on Twitter.

'I do not accept the statement at all. I do not accept these measures. We need to talk to government, they need to understand our local knowledge, expertise and ability to get things done, and preserve jobs and well-being.

'We are really disappointed. As things stand we defy the Government and we do not accept these measures.

'We need to get Covid under control and we need to work with people to find a way of preserving jobs and mental health.'

As head of the local council Mr Preston has no official powers to over-rule the decision taken by ministers. But he could, in theory, prevent council staff from helping to enforce the pub closures and household meeting ban - though there has been no suggestion yet that he would.

Further adding to the optimism is the latest estimate of daily cases from King's College London, which is running a separate study that uses test and app data to predict how many people are catching the virus each day.

The Covid Symptom Study, run in conjunction with ZOE, a health-tech team that runs the Covid Symptom Tracker app, estimates there are now 19,777 people getting infected each day across the UK.

This is a rise from the 16,130 daily infections prediction last week but the increase is smaller than it was between the previous two estimates.

The rise from September 24 to October 1 was 23 per cent, while between September 17 and 24 it more than doubled from 7,536 (a 114 per cent increase).

Some 14,837 of these cases are thought to be happening in England, with the majority in the North East and Yorkshire and the North West (a total of approximately 8,800).

A further 2,294 people are thought to be getting sick each day in Scotland, along with 1,331 in Wales and 1,315 in Northern Ireland.

The estimates are based on the results of 8,377 swab tests. And they suggest that the reproduction rate of the virus, the R, has fallen, too - to 1.2 in England, 1.3 in Scotland and 1.4 in Wales.

Professor Tim Spector, an epidemiologist and leader of the study, said: 'We are confident that this flattening in the data looks real and that this might be an early sign of infection rates slowing down.

'This may be due to a number of factors including social distancing and the "rule of six", but we cant discount the role of less susceptible people and prior immunity in those exposed and the natural cycle of the virus.

'We are seeing nearly 50 per cent of our cases are coming from the under 30s, which is more than in the spring, which may explain why the pressures on the NHS are less.

'We still need to continue to work together to make sure this flattening off isnt a small blip. As we head into winter we all need to be cautious and pay attention to the advice we are being given around local restrictions, social distancing and avoiding gathering in large groups.'

Why Professor Chris Whitty's pessimism isn't the full picture: BEN SPENCER presents the good news the experts DIDN'T show you

Jeremy Hunt says early local lockdowns might have controlled surge Coronavirus cases are at a much lower level than in March and local lockdowns might have helped control the outbreak, Jeremy Hunt said today. The Health Select Committee chair insisted people should not be too alarmed by the situation, as earlier action had been taken this time around. He told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'I think the evidence from what happened earlier in the year, not just in this country but all over the world, is that acting early, decisively, quickly, is actually the best way to contain the spread of the virus and that's what I think Chris Whitty and the Prime Minister are saying. 'One of the things that is often not noted about Italy was the successful way in which they managed to contain the outbreak of the virus in northern Italy, in Lombardy, and avoid it spreading to the rest of the country. 'Now, we didn't manage to do that first time round but it just may be that these local lockdowns, although we haven't seen a big reduction in transmission within those areas, they may just have contained it and stopped it from becoming the national outbreak that we had before.' Advertisement

Four times yesterday we were told that Covid numbers are going in the wrong direction.

Cases are up, hospital admissions are up and deaths are up, the grim press conference informed the nation.

Sir Patrick Vallance, the Governments chief scientific adviser, warned: This is headed in the wrong direction. Theres no cause for complacency here at all.

Professor Chris Whitty, the chief medical officer, agreed. This is definitely heading the wrong way. Some 71 Covid deaths were yesterday recorded across the UK.

A little over six months ago, on March 21  two days before the nation was plunged into lockdown  exactly the same number of deaths were reported.

The symmetry is chilling and the message from Boris Johnson and his advisers was clear: Follow the rules, toe the line, or we will have no choice but to lock the country down once again. Warning that the nation is at a critical moment, the PM said: We will not hesitate to take further measures that would, Im afraid, be more costly than the ones we have put into effect now.

But although cases and deaths are, indeed, heading up, Britain is in a much better position than it was in the spring. On March 21, when 71 people died of Covid, we were at the start of a rising curve that was about to soar.

A few days later the daily death toll had hit 1,000. Cases were doubling every three to four days, Professor Whitty reminded us yesterday. The last time he and Sir Patrick appeared together at Downing Street, some ten days ago, they predicted that cases were doubling every seven days.

Even that now seems like a pessimistic forecast. In reality, the data suggests cases are rising far more slowly, perhaps doubling as slowly as every 21 days.

This may seem like nitpicking, after all, if cases are rising, then so will hospital admissions and deaths will inevitably follow.

The Government is desperate to avoid the virus suddenly running out of control, but there is evidence this is not on the cards at the moment

Sir Patrick and Professor Whitty often look to France and Spain, which are said to be two to three weeks ahead of the UK in their trajectories. Although both countries have far higher cases than Britain, they have not seen anything like the spike seen in the spring

But the speed of the rise, the gradient of the graph, is crucial when the cost of action to flatten the curve would be so high.

The Government is desperate to avoid the virus suddenly running out of control. If cases spike, it could overwhelm the NHS.

But all the signs suggest this is not on the cards. Yes, cases are worryingly high. Yes, hospital admissions have doubled in a week. And yes, 71 deaths are a tragedy.

But all these figures have been increasing very gradually for a number of weeks.

And a major study by Imperial College London, based on tens of thousands of tests, last night suggested that the rate of growth may even be slowing. It estimated the crucial R rate has dropped to 1.1  from a peak of roughly 1.5 the week before  suggesting that recent restrictions are working. Exponential growth does not seem imminent.

Sir Patrick and Professor Whitty often look to France and Spain, which are said to be two to three weeks ahead of the UK in their trajectories.

Although both countries have far higher cases than Britain, they have not seen anything like the spike seen in the spring.

Daily cases in both countries stand at about 12,000, if the seven-day rolling average is looked at, which flattens out the peaks and troughs of day-to-day reporting.

This figure has stayed roughly level in France over the past week, and in Spain it has actually dropped slightly. Deaths in both countries are also high  France has about twice Britains daily deaths and Spain about triple.

But, again, both have stayed fairly stable in the past fortnight.

Neither country has seen the virus run out of control, as it did in the spring. Much has been made of the 7,000 new coronavirus cases reported in Britain yesterday and the day before.Although these are the highest figures on record, last spring the country was doing only a fraction of the testing, so only a tiny proportion of cases were detected.

If we had been carrying out the same number of tests then, as we are now, we are likely to have seen between 80,000 and 100,000 infections per day.

By that measure what we are currently experiencing is more a ripple than a second wave. The PM is acutely aware of the costs of more restrictions. After a series of bruising headlines about missed cancer screenings during the last shutdown, he was quick to stress last night that the NHS remains open for business.

His officials predict that 74,000 people will die as an indirect result of the spring lockdown  many because they stayed away from hospitals.

Mr Johnson must be sure, before ordering a repeat, that the cure is not worse than the disease.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 15:30:09|Editor: huaxia

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CANBERRA, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Australia's peak medical body has warned that the nation's hospitals are facing a funding shortfall.

The Australian Medical Association (AMA) on Thursday published its Public Hospital Report Card 2020, revealing that the current hospital funding agreement between state and federal governments would leave public hospitals "chronically underfunded" amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the report, public hospitals were "bursting at the seams" before the pandemic, with the national median wait time for elective surgeries growing to 41 days in 2018-19, the longest since 2001-02.

Omar Khorshid, the president of the AMA, said that the problem has been exacerbated by COVID-19 with operating theatre efficiency falling 50 percent during the pandemic.

"This Report Card shows that access to public hospital treatment in many jurisdictions is deteriorating, and waiting times are getting worse, even though public hospital staff continue to work hard to reduce patient length of stay, so beds can be used by the next patient," he said in a media release.

"Our hardworking and dedicated public hospital staff are coming under increasing pressure, and funding levels are inadequate."

"The COVID-19 pandemic has meant that many elective surgeries have been put on hold, people have put off regular health checks, including cancer screening and diagnostic testing."

"This is likely to increase the backlog of patients who need urgent treatment because the opportunity for early intervention has been missed."

Under the 2020-25 hospital funding agreement, which was announced by Prime Minister Scott Morrison in May, the federal government pays the states 45 percent of the growth in their hospital costs.

At the time the agreement was announced Morrison said that it would ensure that "no jurisdiction is left worse off as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic."

The AMA report said that the federal government must recognize that "the impact of COVID on state government budgets and the limits on their ability to fund growth in public hospital services."

It said that it was "critical" that Morrison "acts quickly to preserve and improve the quality and quantity of health care delivered in our public hospitals." Enditem
SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19, was discovered first in China's Wuhan in December 2019. Soon after the discovery, scientists found that it belonged to the coronavirus family and had many similarities to other strains of coronavirus, especially the one that caused severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS).

Since then, multiple strategies such as repurposing old medicines, development of a vaccine and plasma therapy have been tried to stop this virus from causing harm. Recently, scientists from the Scripps Research Institute, Florida, US have found a new technique to target and destroy the RNA sequence of SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Targeting the hairpin

RNA is a molecule, which stands for ribonucleic acid and is similar to DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) found in human cells. But unlike DNA, RNA has a single strand. The SARS-CoV-2 has RNA as its genetic material.

The scientists found that the RNA of SARS-CoV-2 folds into different shapes, which can easily be targeted by drugs. One of the regions of the RNA, called frameshifting element (FSE), contains a hairpin-like structure that, along with other structures, helps the virus translate its genes into proteins, thus spreading the infection.

Scientists believed that if they identified a small-molecule drug that could bind with the hairpin and deactivate it, the virus multiplication would stop.

In the study, published in the journal ACS Central Science on 30 September, 2020, scientists Dr Matthew Disney and Dr Hafeez Haniff along with their colleagues started microarray experiments (examining thousands of genes at the same time) to identify small molecules (a drug) that could bind to a specific region of the SARS-CoV-2 FSE hairpin.

The scientists further examined if they could increase the potency of the drug by adding a component which would enhance the activity of RNA-destroying cellular enzyme.

Result of the study

On examining various molecules, scientists identified a small drug-like molecule, which was named compound 5 (C5), that ideally binds to the hairpin structure of SARS-CoV-2 with a Kd of 11 nanometers. Kd is the unit used to determine the binding capacity of a molecule. It is found that C5 impaired frameshifting in the cells by decreasing the hairpin's gene-translating efficiency by about 25 percent.

Thus, it reduced the ability of SARS-CoV-2 to make essential proteins for spreading the infection.

To further enhance the potency of C5, scientists attached another molecule, called ribonuclease-targeting chimera (RIBOTAC), to it. RIBOTAC recruits a cellular ribonuclease to destroy the viral genome, named C5-RIBOTAC, and convert it into C5-Chem-CLIP, which can directly target the viral RNA.

It was found that RIBOTAC increased the efficiency of C5 by about 10-fold.

The researchers concluded that though further research is needed on this, scientists can form a drug, using RIBOTAC-containing compounds, to disrupt the function of SARS-CoV-2 genome.

For more information, read our article on What makes COVID-19 dangerous.

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.
A conceptual artist walked into a bodega during a pandemic carrying a box full of pennies.

The place was one of those ubiquitous New York smoke shops that uses tobacco pipes in their signage instead of the letter S. The artist was named Jill Magid, and she approached the man at the counter, giving a pitch that she didnt quite have down to elevator length.

I want to pay for this in pennies, she said, picking up some Ferrero Rocher chocolates. Theyre engraved as part of a dispersed monument. See?

The clerk put on his glasses and squinted at the edge of a coin. The. Body. Was. Already. So 

Fragile! Ms. Magid finished for him. You have good eyes.

Its too small, the clerk concluded.

In the end, he seemed to understand. He accepted the pennies, and Ms. Magid strolled out with her chocolates. She had several hundred more bodegas to go.
BOULDER CREEK, Santa Cruz County  At the top of a cul-de-sac lined with burned homes, Antonia Bradford stood before what was once her cathedral-like house, surrounded by singed redwood trees. Little was recognizable in the rubble but a charred car, a chicken coop, a butterfly-shaped chair and a bathtub.

When the CZU Lightning Complex fires ripped through the Santa Cruz Mountains six weeks ago, Bradford, her husband and five children were suddenly homeless  along with thousands of others. Her family stayed in a hotel, then with friends as they scoured for rentals, watching listings disappear and prices rise.

Its pretty wild; its pretty bad, Bradford said. Housing has been a huge issue in Santa Cruz County for quite some time now. Right now its a supply-and-demand situation and people raising prices so high its pushing people off the mountain.

When lightning sparked the CZU fires in mid-August, around 60,000 people  1 in 5 Santa Cruz County residents  evacuated. The blaze destroyed 925 homes and three multifamily residences. The fire affected some of the most affordable housing in the county, adding pressure on an already costly and competitive market amid a statewide housing crisis. With the Glass Fire raging in Wine Country, a similar dynamic might play out in the North Bay, where the wildfire has destroyed more than 100 homes and tens of thousands of residents have fled.

The sudden need for housing was worsened by the pandemic limiting shelter capacity. Complicating it further was that the county had never dealt with a fire on this scale.

Meanwhile, a government-run program booking evacuees free hotel rooms got off to a bumpy start, officials and residents said. In one case, a couple with health issues slept in a friends abandoned trailer before they learned about the program. In another, a nurse got a room only when she no longer needed it because the evacuation had lifted.

Most hotel booking issues have been ironed out, but the program is a temporary solution, and finding more permanent housing wont be easy. As of Wednesday, 853 people were still in hotels. After evacuations lift, evacuees can stay longer if their home doesnt have water or power, which are still out in some areas. And many people dont have a home to which they can return.

For insured homeowners, coverage helps pay for temporary housing  either in a comparable place for up to two years or a capped dollar amount, as in Bradfords case. As an underinsured homeowner also juggling paying a mortgage and rebuilding a home, shes concerned that funds will run out quickly if shes not careful.

Sara Gobets / Special to The Chronicle

Merely a Band-Aid

Buzz Tatro, a 74-year-old caretaker and handyman, escaped his Bonny Doon home of 54 years with just a backpack of medical supplies, driving between walls of flames. He got into a hotel after nine days in a shelter. But the throat cancer survivor who cant speak and writes to communicate now needs to find a permanent place to live on a monthly disability income of $706 after losing a workshop full of tools. He didnt have insurance.

A wildfire like the CZU kicks into gear local, state and federal agencies offering a complicated web of resources for people like Tatro. On Aug. 22, the Federal Emergency Management Agency declared a major disaster in Santa Cruz and San Mateo counties and descended on the area to accept aid applications. The Red Cross distributed food and gave out one-time $450 grants.

At the peak, around 1,800 evacuees stayed in shelters, county spokesman Jason Hoppin said. Airbnb offered a program in which more than 400 hosts volunteered free places to stay, the company said. Spots filled quickly. Santa Cruz County officials strongly discouraged tourists from coming, Hoppin said, which meant that hotels had more space to help evacuees.

The county started enrolling people in a state program that booked and paid for rooms at 178 hotels, funded by FEMA.

The county was very quick in understanding that our response was needed. It was truly just our first go at all of this, said Laurin Burton, the countys hotel program manager. It was a really big learning curve.

Burton said challenges included staffing the program, making the public aware of it, and booking rooms closer than the Bay Area. Officials did have success with the Chaminade Resort and Spa in Santa Cruz, which partnered with the program three weeks ago to block off 115 rooms at half the usual rate.

Sara Gobets / Special to The Chronicle

Brittany Provinzano, who evacuated Boulder Creek with her boyfriend and 12-year-old son, paid nearly $1,600 out of pocket at two hotels before learning about the program. Once in, she bounced among four more hotels as her son, who has autism, started distance learning. Provinzano was grateful, but said it was really stressful to re-coordinate with Red Cross to get food delivered every move and in some cases stay far from resources at home.

A couple of nights I was in tears because I couldnt do it anymore, said Provinzano, who returned to her smoke-damaged home last week.

Sometimes frequent moving was in part due to the fact that bookings were good for a week and then had to be renewed. Last week, the state extended reservations to 14 days for evacuees who need more time to secure longer-term housing, said Jennifer Iida of the state Department of General Services.

The program will last for 30 days after the federal disaster declaration is lifted, a yet unknown date, FEMA said.

We know that the hotel system is merely a Band-Aid on a much bigger wound, and we have to figure out a way of getting longer-term housing to become available, said Boulder Creek evacuee Rebekah Uccellini Kuby, who along with 20 volunteers organized a grassroots group that has helped hundreds of fire victims connect with aid and housing. We are in a West Coast housing crisis and its only getting worse by the day  the more fires and fire evacuees. It truly feels like were going to be climate refugees soon.

Burning us out

Losing nearly 1,000 homes will put pressure on an already extremely tight housing market in the area. Santa Cruz County was the seventh-least-affordable metropolitan housing market in the country last year, with average rent of $2,348, according to a federal report. The report forecast that current construction couldnt meet demand by 2022. There were already more than 2,000 homeless people in the county last year, according to an annual survey.

Some of the countys most affordable housing was in the mountain towns that burned, said Morgan Lukina, board president of the Santa Cruz County Association of Realtors. Fortunately for fire victims, UC Santa Cruz, the largest employer in the area, is primarily operating remotely because of the coronavirus, which eases rental demand since not all students are living nearby, she said.

Robyn Kissler, her partner and her adult daughter lost their Boulder Creek home and landed in her sisters house in Carmel Valley. Kissler, who manages the post office in Scotts Valley, is commuting at least three hours a day while they look for a closer place. Insurance will pay, but options are dwindling, she said.

Its devastating. We got out with just the dogs and a change of clothes. Our whole lives were in that house, she said. Weve been watching the prices go up on rentals, and theyve become fewer and further between.

Fire Tracker Follow wildfires across the state Latest updates on wildfires burning across Northern and Southern California

There have also been complaints about gouging. The Santa Cruz County District Attorneys Office is investigating three hotel and two rental price-gouging complaints and expects to see more for rentals, said Shandra Handley from the consumer fraud unit.

Navigating aid isnt always easy. To help cover rising costs, people who lost their homes can apply to FEMA to get a grant up to $35,500 for temporary housing relief, home repair and replacement, but the paperwork can be a challenge for those whove just had their documents burn.

To support fire victims Gofundme for Antonia Bradford Gofundme for Robyn Kissler Venmo for Buzz Tatro @BonnyDoon-Buzz See More Collapse

FEMA doesnt duplicate insurance benefits, so homeowners, including Bradford and Kissler, were denied until they prove insurance wont cover all costs. Spokeswoman BrianaSummer Fenton said the most common reason for a denial, which can be appealed, is missing documents. Still, FEMA has disbursed $3.9 million and 4,800 evacuees registered for the aid in Santa Cruz County from Aug. 22 to Sept. 29, Fenton said.

FEMA has also provided trailers to people who lost their homes in previous wildfires, such as the Camp Fire. Santa Cruz County has requested those trailers from FEMA, but is waiting to hear back, said county Supervisor Ryan Coonerty.

Two weeks ago, county supervisors also passed a measure to let residents apply for temporary permits to return to their property in a trailer or other shelter after hazmat removal is complete, which will take about six weeks. The permit will require power, water and a septic system. Coonerty said people are already staying on the undamaged properties of friends or family members without permits.

Were trying to be flexible, understanding people have to get their lives re-established, he said. We were in a housing crisis before this occurred.

The county is looking at other possible housing solutions, including dorm-style apartments and negotiating with leasing agencies to try to get a lower set rate for fire evacuees, Burton said.

Sara Gobets / Special to The Chronicle

Boulder Creek evacuees Daniel and Melinda McNutt, who bounced among five different spots while evacuated for a month, can stay in their undamaged rental home another year, but wonder how long they can afford it. The formerly homeless couple planned to move to Oregon for cheaper housing  until that state also went up in flames.

Theres already a housing crisis, and theyre burning us out, Daniel McNutt said.

Others are wedded to staying put despite the challenges: Bradford found an affordable rental in Boulder Creek to move into Saturday.

Im not giving up on these mountains, she said.

Mallory Moench is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: mallory.moench@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @mallorymoench
In an effort to slow down the third wave of the coronavirus in Iran, President Hassan Rouhani said the country would fine those not following the health guidelines that have been recommended by the Health Ministry.

Rouhani announced the fines Oct. 1 at a meeting of the National Headquarters for Combatting Coronavirus. He said the fines would be applicable to offices, private businesses and public spaces. Provinces would have some discretion in how strict they would be required to adhere to the health protocols. The plan to issue fines for those not wearing masks was initially presented Aug. 18, but in recent statements by administration officials, it appears they are at least threatening to do so now.

According to Rouhani, authorities will have to be stricter in the coming months with issuing fines because of the flu on top of the coronavirus.

In the last 24 hours, 211 people in Iran have died of the coronavirus. The daily death rate had recently dropped to around 150 and even lower but has been slowing climbing back up. Over 26,000 Iranians have died from the virus. Health Ministry officials have previously said, however, that this number only includes confirmed deaths, meaning those 26,000 had tested positive for the virus before they died, and other individuals who had been treated for the virus and were symptomatic but were never tested were not included in the official numbers.

All of Irans provinces have cities that are officially referred to as red zones, meaning they must adhere to stricter health guidelines. Officially, 158 Iranian cities have been declared red zones.

Due to economic pressure, Iran was unable to sustain a long-term lockdown and was forced to open back up. Despite the health guidelines, many citizens still did not adhere to what the Health Ministry presented and continued living their daily lives as they normally would. In previous months, some of the main causes of the coronavirus spread were large events and gatherings such as weddings.

Iran has very few options until a vaccine is created. In a statement on the founding of the Peoples Republic of China, Rouhani said Iran is ready to participate in producing a vaccine for the coronavirus.

Vatan Emrooz, a conservative newspaper, has criticized the administration for rolling out a plan to issue fines for those not adhering to the health guidelines. The article argued that none of the ministries have issued clear guidelines with details on what the protocols are. The article also criticized the idea of issuing fines for individuals who do not wear masks, arguing that masks are becoming increasingly expensive. Furthermore, it is not clear how or by whom the individuals will be fined if they are stopped for not wearing masks. The article dismissed this new plan by the administration to begin issuing fines, saying such plans were supposed to have been in place months ago but were never implemented.
HONG KONG  A court in central China has sentenced a kindergarten teacher to death for poisoning two dozen pupils and killing one after a dispute with a colleague.

The teacher, Wang Yun, added nitrite to porridge that was fed to the other instructors class for breakfast on March 27, 2019, according to a ruling issued on Monday by the Jiaozuo Intermediate Peoples Court in Henan Province.

The teachers had a dispute over student management questions, the court said, and Ms. Wang had sought to poison her rivals class.

Several students who ate the porridge began vomiting and were sent to a hospital. Of the 25 who were poisoned, one died and 23 others fell ill, the court said.
New study from The New York Academy of Medicine shares findings on innovative partnership in the South Bronx

Claremont Healthy Village Initiative Logo

Claremont Healthy Village Initiative Logo

New York, NY, Oct. 01, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Transforming health and addressing health disparities in low-income communities is a significant challenge that requires investment and collaboration by multiple sectors. A new study led by researchers at The New York Academy of Medicine (NYAM) on the Claremont Healthy Village Initiative in the South Bronx, published in the Journal of Urban Health, found that this type of collaboration has the potential to improve the health of a community. The initiatives successful approach includes bringing in new resources, strengthening local partnerships, and increasing access to health programming and services.

NYAMs evaluation of the Claremont Healthy Village Initiative demonstrates the benefits of healthcare partnerships that work closely with community-based organizations and residents to increase access and resources, build healthier communities and reduce longstanding inequities, said NYAM President Dr. Judith A. Salerno, MD, MS. This approach is consistent with NYAMs belief that changing systems, breaking down barriers and creating access are all essential to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to live a healthy life.

With support from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, researchers from NYAMs Center for Evaluation and Applied Research (CEAR) led a two-year assessment of the Claremont Healthy Village Initiative (CHVI), a partnership with BronxCare (a local hospital), Healthfirst (a not-for-profit health insurance provider) and nearly 20 community-based organizations. Launched in 2012, CHVI is a pioneering partnership that works to address the broader determinants of health in the Claremont/Morrisania neighborhood of the South Bronx. Claremont is a low-income community with disproportionately high rates of poor health (22% of adults in Claremont have diabetes and 36% are obese) and premature mortality (at 76.2 years, life expectancy is 5 years shorter than the NYC average).

Story continues

NYAMs evaluation of CHVI found positive outcomes at the structural level including strengthened partnerships; increased visibility, recognition and connections for local organizations, including with policy makers; and access to funding and resources that enabled these organizations to offer more services to the community. In addition, over half of community members surveyed perceived improvements in access to health services, opportunities to eat healthy, and activities for youth, all of which have been key components of CHVI programming efforts.

Healthfirst remains dedicated to optimal health outcomes in this being a part of this Healthy Village, said Susan J. Beane, MD, Executive Medical Director, Clinical Partnerships, Healthfirst. Early in the project we realized that in order for it to be most effective, we couldnt dictate what the community needed. So the program grew organically by listening to the residents tell us how we could best join them in building healthier lives, and offering tools, resources and programs. The results encourage us to push forward in efforts to improve access and equity through collaboration with the communities that we serve.

CHVI focuses on improving wellness through collaboration between a variety of sectors and organizationslarge and small, local and citywide, said Linda Weiss, Director of the Center for Evaluation and Applied Research at NYAM. Our evaluation results suggest the approach has successfully promoted natural synergies and connections and has brought additional resources and recognition to a community that has faced decades of disinvestment. We hope and expect that others can use the information to strengthen local initiatives and their own community-based work.

About The New York Academy of Medicine

The New York Academy of Medicine (NYAM) tackles the barriers that prevent every individual from living a healthy life. NYAM generates the knowledge needed to change the systems that prevent people from accessing what they need to be healthy such as safe and affordable housing, healthy food, healthcare and more. Through its high-profile programming for the general public, focused symposia for health professionals, and its base of dedicated Fellows and Members, NYAM engages the minds and hearts of those who also value advancing health equity to maximize health for all.

About Healthfirst

Healthfirst is New Yorks largest not-for-profit health insurer, earning the trust of 1.5 million members by offering access to affordable healthcare. Sponsored by downstate New Yorks leading hospitals, Healthfirsts unique advantage is rooted in its mission to put members first by working closely with its broad network of providers on shared goals. Healthfirst takes pride in being pioneers of the value-based care model, now recognized as a national best practice. For nearly 30 years, Healthfirst has built its reputation in the community for top-quality products and services New Yorkers can depend on. It has grown significantly to serve the needs of members, offering market-leading products to fit every life stage, including Medicaid plans, Medicare Advantage plans, Long-Term Care plans, Qualified Health plans, and individual and small group plans. Healthfirst serves members in New York City and on Long island, as well as in Westchester, Sullivan, and Orange counties. For more information on Healthfirst, please visit healthfirst.org.

About BronxCare Health System

BronxCare is the largest voluntary, not-for-profit health and teaching hospital system serving the South and Central Bronx, with 859 beds and more than 4,500 employees. Its two main hospital divisions, comprehensive psychiatric and chemical dependency programs, long-term care facility, and extensive outpatient network are delivering the highest quality and accessible services to the community. BronxCare is now among the largest providers of outpatient services in New York City, with close to one million visits annually. Its ER is also responding to 141,000 visits, one of the busiest in New York.

Attachment

CONTACT: Kiri Oliver The New York Academy of Medicine 212-822-7278 koliver@nyam.org Elise Titan Healthfirst 718-484-5454 etitan@healthfirst.org




What Im listening to: Nao and her album For All We Know , which come out four years ago. Ive gone back to listening to music that was out when I had my freedom. Its kind of neo soul and it reminds me of a Sunday afternoon having a cocktail in the sun. You cant help but dance. Bloody oath, I love a shimmy. Also John Farnham . My first-ever live show was the Whispering Jack tour. The day of the concert I told my class I was leaving for the last time because I was going to be his child bride, hed probably spot me in the audience in my beautiful woolly Jenny Kee jumper and choose me to be his wife  I was nine. Ive always loved him. If I feel a bit low just whack on Youre the Voice , A Touch of Paradise , whatever, it always lifts me.

What Im watching: Because Im in lockdown in Melbourne it really depends on my mood and what I need. If Im after something heartfelt and life-affirming I watch a show called The Casketeers (SBS On Demand) , its about a funeral home run by a Maori family and it is almost like Taika Waititi has made a documentary about funeral directors. Its glorious and makes you realise how precious life is, but it also makes you laugh. If I want some fantasy I watch The Umbrella Academy (Netflix) . Its based on a family of kids born with superpowers, they were adopted by this megalomaniac millionaire and one of them brings about the apocalypse. Their powers are really unusual: one time travels, one can talk people into doing anything she wants and one can turn into this giant octopus that can slaughter everyone. But theres still just a family struggle to get along  with octopus powers, very relatable. And if I need a little bit of mindless hot Vikings I watch The Last Kingdom . Its on Netflix and its the story of a Saxon Viking who was stolen by a Danish Viking family. I dont really follow the storyline that closely, theres a lot of tops off, a lot of hot men with long hair, a lot of bearskin rug sex.

What Im reading: Phosphorescence by Julia Baird. She had cancer and then she thought about how humans could perhaps find a place within yourself where you can make your own light. She talks about tree bathing [shinrin-yoku], which is a practice people do in Japan where they deliberately immerse themselves in nature and the effects it has on mental health. I live out in the Yarra Valley in Melbourne, so every day Im more conscious to take in the trees and leaves. I know it sounds like hippie stuff but its really helped. It brings an innate sense of calm straightaway.

My pandemic hobby is: Roller skating. I used to roller skate a lot  I grew up on Xanadu and thought I was Olivia Newton-John. Im 41 and the last time I roller skated was when I was 14. So I ordered some leopard print ones and they arrived and Im like, Everyone watch me. And you know what, Im not very good. It hurt my ego. But its been really fun. So Im determined for my next stand-up show, whenever Im allowed to tour again, to open with roller skates. Last time I came out with 12 dancing vaginas, this time I plan to roller skate out with roller skating back-up dancers.

What made me laugh this week: I have a 20-month-old son and he has taken to aggressively smelling flowers. Imagine if Meryl Streep was told to smell a flower as hard as she can, that is what my son does. Any time I want a laugh I hand him a flower and the performance begins.

Dealing with the COVID-19 spike in Melbourne: I dont care whose fault it is right now, things will be figured out at the end of it. Everyone needs to do their part and lets just get it done. I doesnt help Victorians when other people are saying, Everyones stuffing up and your governments not doing this, this and this. I just want to survive this and then well talk about it. Thats my attitude.

Em Rusciano appears on Drunk History Australia on Monday on Channel 10.
The father of a teenager killed in a road accident in Malawi received a letter from his daughter this morning just 24 hours after he heard of the tragedy.

Brigadier David Montgomery now plans to fly out to the east African country to retrieve Amber's body and see where his daughter and her friends Arabella McDonald and Kate Morgan died with two Malawian locals.

The pick-up truck they were travelling in over-turned after skidding into a ditch on a wet road on Thursday. Their friend Lizzi Ryan survived the crash.

Amber, 18, and Arabella, 19, were ex-pupils of Princess Anne's old school Benenden, in Cranbrook, Kent.

Brigadier Montgomery, speaking from his home in Woodnesborough, near Sandwich, Kent, today revealed the added heartbreak of seeing the words of his daughter knowing that her life had been cruelly ended.

"She was a very happy girl who had a lovely life," he said. "She loved working with children and we received a letter from her today and in it she said 'I love them all so much and I would like to bring them all home'. It was heartbreaking to see her words but it is all heartbreaking really.

"We were very similar in characters in many ways and I shall always remember her as my best friend.

"I am going to go out to Malawi at some stage to visit the place where she last was, the school where she taught, and then come back hopefully with her."

Amber, eldest of three girls, was on a gap year teaching at a local school and had left Benenden with three "good" A-levels. She planned to go to Newcastle University later this year to study sociology.

Brigadier Montgomery said his family were still in a state of shock.

"I was at work when my wife called me and said I would have to be brave as she had some bad news," he said. "I straightaway said Amber and she said yes.

"My initial reaction was complete disbelief, I just carried on working for a bit until it started to sink in. One doesn't believe it now even when I've seen it in black and white.

"I have been in the army for 28 years so I am not a stranger to people dying, it's just that this was somebody so precious."

The three girls arrived in the central African country in January for a four-month teaching attachment at the country's Mlanda Girls Secondary School.

Ms Ryan was being treated in the clinic at the British High Commission in Lilongwe.

Two Malawian women were also killed and the local driver of the group's Toyota Landcruiser was seriously hurt, it was reported.

Benenden called the deaths a "tragedy".

Headmistress Claire Oulton said: "We are all deeply shocked. The school mourns the loss of two wonderful young women.

"Prayers have been said for Arabella and Amber and for their families and friends to whom we extend our deepest sympathies."
Coronavirus outbreak: India records nearly 87,000 new COVID-19 cases in last 24 hours

India

oi-Ajay Joseph Raj P

New Delhi, Oct 01: Union health ministry on Thursday said that India's COVID-19 count raced past 63 lakh with 86,821 new infections reported in a day. According to the health ministry, 1,181 coronavirus patients lost their battle with the deadly contagious virus in the last 24 hours, pushing the fatalities count to 98.678.

Covid-19: India's Coronavirus tally soars past 63 lakh with 86,821 cases in 24 hours|Oneindia News

The total number of coronavirus cases mounted to 63,12,585. Presently, there are 9,40,705 active cases of coronavirus infection in the country and 52,73,201 have been discharged so far.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), cumulatively 7,56,19,781 samples have been tested for detection of coronavirus infection up to September 30.

Coronavirus outbreak: Health ministry claims 14 states report less than 5,000 COVID-19 cases

Meanwhile, as many as 14 states in India currently have less than 5,000 active coronavirus cases each, highlighting the need to focus on states with a high case load to cut the transmission cycle of the viral infection.

Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Chandigarh, Puducherry, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Ladakh, Sikkim, Mizoram, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Lakshadweep are the 14 states.

It can be seen that ten states and Union Territories contribute to 78 per cent of the total recovered cases, with Maharashtra leading the tally with over 1,000,000 recoveries, followed by Andhra Pradesh with at least 600,000.

WHO heaps praise on Odisha govt for effective fight against COVID, despite cyclone, migrant influx

The country on Wednesday witnessed 86,764 new COVID-19 cases in the country, taking the total number of cases to 6,310,241. With 1,179 new deaths reported on Wednesday, the number of people having succumbed to the disease in the country so far since March 12, when the first death due to COVID-19 was reported from the south, is 83,722.

It is reportedly said that 36 per cent of the new fatalities reported are from Maharashtra-on Wednesday, the state reported 430 deaths.

Apart from Maharashtra, other states that have reported a higher number of deaths are Karnataka, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Delhi, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh.

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Story first published: Thursday, October 1, 2020, 10:15 [IST]
RECORDATI: MERGER BY ABSORPTION OF FIMEI S.P.A. AND ROSSINI INVESTIMENTI S.P.A. INTO RECORDATI S.P.A. APPROVED

Reverse merger by absorption of Fimei S.p.A. and Rossini Investimenti S.p.A. into Recordati S.p.A. approved by Board of Directors.

Objective - shortened chain of control and simplified corporate governance structure.

As a result of the merger, no variations of Recordati S.p.A.'s share capital and Articles of Association.

As a result of the merger, the shareholdings in Recordati S.p.A. of Rossini S.a r.l. (indirectly held by CVC Capital Partners VII Limited), currently equal to 51.820% of Recordati S.p.A.'s share capital, as well as those of the other shareholders, remain unchanged.

Reassignment to Rossini S.a r.l. of all Recordati shares held by Fimei against cancellation of all Rossini Investimenti shares held by Rossini S.a r.l. itself.

No effect on Recordati S.p.A.'s net financial position, capital allocation policy or strategy.

No recognition of goodwill or intangible assets arising from the transaction in Recordati S.p.A.'s financial statements.

Lower taxes due to transfer of tax benefits to Recordati S.p.A.. A non-recurring tax benefit of  12.9 million(subject to tax ruling) and a recurring benefit estimated at  1.3 million per year are expected.

The Board also approved the execution of a merger agreement with Rossini Luxembourg S.a r.l., providing customary representations and warranties and related indemnification obligations of the latter.

The merger, together with the merger agreement, - as major related party transaction - received unanimous favourable opinion from Control, Risks and Sustainability Committee of Recordati S.p.A., acting as Related Party Transactions Committee.

Completion of the merger is conditional upon approval by the extraordinary shareholders' meeting and favourable opinion on the fairness of the exchange ratio by the expert appointed by the Court.

Accounting and tax effective date referred to in the merger plan: 1 April 2021.

Milan, 1 October 2020 - The Boards of Directors of Rossini Investimenti S.p.A. ("Rossini Investimenti"), Fimei S.p.A. ("Fimei" and, together with Rossini Investimenti, the "Disappearing Companies") and Recordati S.p.A. ("Recordati" or the "Surviving Company" and, together with the Disappearing Companies, the "Participants in the Merger") - all subject to the management and coordination activity of Rossini Luxembourg S.a r.l. ("Rossini Luxembourg") - examined and approved [by unanimous vote of those present] the reverse merger by incorporation of Rossini Investimenti and Fimei into Recordati (the "Transaction" or the "Merger") and the documentation preparatory to implementation of the Merger, including the relevant merger plan (the "Merger Plan").

The Merger, together with the merger agreement described below, received the favourable opinion of Recordati's Control, Risk and Sustainability Committee (the "Committee"), which acts as the Related Party Transactions Committee pursuant to the regulations governing Related Party Transactions (the "Procedure").

Participants in the Merger

Recordati

Recordati S.p.A., a company incorporated and existing under Italian law, with registered office at via Matteo Civitali no. 1, Milan, tax number, VAT number and registration number with the Milan-Monza-Brianza-Lodi Companies' Register: 00748210150, listed in the Milan Economic and Administrative Index under no. 401832, a company subject to the management and coordination activity of Rossini Luxembourg.

Fimei

Fimei S.p.A., a company incorporated and existing under Italian law, with registered office at via del Vecchio Politecnico no. 9, Milan, tax number and registration number with the Milan-Monza-Brianza-Lodi Companies' Register: 01001630159, VAT number 10042010156, listed in the Milan Economic and Administrative Index under no. 784291, a company subject to the management and coordination activity of Rossini Luxembourg.

As at today's date, Fimei holds shares representing 51.820% of the share capital of Recordati and the share capital of Fimei is held entirely by Rossini Investimenti.

Rossini Investimenti

Rossini Investimenti S.p.A., a company incorporated and existing under Italian law, with registered office at via del Vecchio Politecnico no. 9, Milan, tax number, VAT number and registration number with the Milan-Monza-Brianza-Lodi Companies' Register: 10428410962, listed in the Milan Economic and Administrative Index under no. 2530577, a company subject to the management and coordination activity of Rossini Luxembourg.

As at today's date, the share capital of Rossini Investimenti is held entirely by Rossini S.a r.l. ("Rossini Sarl").

Major related party transaction

As indicated in the above description of the Participants in the Merger, on the date of this press release:

Rossini Investimenti directly and legally controls Fimei, holding 100% of its share capital; Fimei directly and legally controls Recordati, holding 51.820% of its share capital; all the Participants in the Merger are subject to the management and coordination activity of Rossini Luxembourg, pursuant to Articles 2497 et seq. of the Italian Civil Code.

Rossini Investimenti, Fimei and Rossini Luxembourg are therefore to be considered related parties of Recordati pursuant to letter (a)(i) of the definition of "Related Parties" in Annex 1 to the regulation adopted by Consob under resolution no. 17221 of 12 March 2010 and most recently amended by resolution no. 21396 of 10 June 2020 (the "OPC Regulations"). The Merger, together with the merger agreement, also constitutes a "major" related party transaction, pursuant to the OPC Regulations and the Procedure, insofar as at least one of the significance indicators set out in Annex 3 to the OPC Regulations exceeds the threshold of 5% (in particular, the "countervalue significance indicator" is 51.82% and the "assets significance indicator" is 112.43%).

For the reasons set out above, the Committee was involved in the negotiation and investigation of the Merger, as well as the merger agreement, and in the approval of the proposed resolution to be submitted to the extraordinary shareholders' meeting of Recordati and, on 28 September 2020, expressed its reasoned favourable opinion on the existence of the interest of Recordati in carrying out the Transaction, as well as on the expediency and substantial correctness of the terms and conditions of the Transaction, pursuant to the OPC Regulations and the Procedure.

In addition, the information document referred to in Article 5 and Annex 4 of the OPC Regulations (the "Information Document") will be published within the deadlines and in accordance with the methods established pursuant to the law and regulations. It should also be noted that, although the Merger is to be considered significant also pursuant to Article 70 of the Issuers' Regulation, Recordati opted, with effect from 20 December 2012, to exercise its right to derogate from the obligations to publish the information documents prescribed for significant mergers, demergers, capital increases by means of the contribution of assets in kind, acquisitions and transfers, pursuant to Article 70, paragraph 8, and Article 71, paragraph 1-bis, of the Issuers' Regulation and, therefore, the preparation of the information document pursuant to Annex 3B of the Issuers' Regulation is not planned.

Finally, it should be noted that the Merger does not entail a public offering of securities and cannot be classed as a reverse merger pursuant to European Regulation 2017/1129 (the Prospectus Regulation), Article 117-bis of the TUF (Italian Consolidated Law on Finance) and IFRS 3, paragraph B.19; therefore, a prospectus does not have to be published.

Purpose of the Transaction

The main reasons underlying the decision to proceed with the Merger, with the consequent expediency of the Transaction for Recordati and for the entire group to which it belongs (the "Group"), are as follows:

shortening the chain of control with respect to the operating companies and simplifying the Group's corporate structure, in line with national and international practice; reducing the administrative costs associated with maintaining the Disappearing Companies, with the consequent release of resources for the benefit of the entire Group; obtaining administrative synergies and synergies linked to fixed structural costs, as well as greater financial efficiency resulting from a shortening of the chain of control which will allow a faster recovery of dividend flows, and resulting in a lower tax cost as a consequence of the elimination of additional tax levels.

Furthermore, as a result of the Merger, Recordati will be able to enjoy the ACE tax benefits generated by Rossini Investimenti, as described in greater detail in the Merger Plan and the Information Document.

Terms and conditions of the Transaction

With reference to the methods of implementing the Merger, it is pointed out that the decision to proceed with the reverse merger by incorporation of the Disappearing Companies into Recordati will enable the Surviving Company to ensure the continuation of its contractual relations and to maintain the status of a listed company that it would otherwise have lost in the event of the merger of Recordati into Rossini Investimenti or Fimei.

It should also be noted that the Participants in the Merger and Rossini Luxembourg today signed a merger agreement, containing certain representations and warranties given by Rossini Luxembourg with regard to the Disappearing Companies (concerning, inter alia, their accounting records, labour law and tax aspects, the absence of litigation pending or threatened in writing) and the relevant indemnity obligations in the event of their inaccuracy or untruthfulness (the "Merger Agreement").

Based on, (i) the consolidated half-year financial report as at 30 June 2020, prepared pursuant to Article 154-ter of the TUF and approved by the Board of Directors of Recordati on 30 July 2020 for the Surviving Company, and, (ii) for the Disappearing Companies, their balance sheets as at 30 June 2020, prepared pursuant to Article 2501-quater of the Italian Civil Code and approved by their Boards of Directors on 11 September 2020, used as reference financial data pursuant to and for the purposes of Article 2501-quater of the Italian Civil Code, as well as (iii) the other assumptions described in detail in the Merger Plan and in the Information Document, the Boards of Directors of the Participants in the Merger determined the following exchange ratio (the "Exchange Ratio"):

against cancellation (i) of the 10,000,000 shares representing the entire share capital of Fimei, all held by Rossini Investimenti, as well as (ii) of the 82,550,000 shares representing the entire share capital of Rossini Investimenti, all held by Rossini Sarl,

all the 108,368,721 ordinary shares of Recordati currently held by Fimei will be reassigned to Rossini Sarl, or a different number of ordinary shares of Recordati held by Fimei on the Effective Date, as defined below (in other words, as at the date hereof, Rossini Sarl would obtain 1.313 Recordati shares for each Rossini Investimenti share),

with third-party shareholders (i.e. other than Rossini Sarl, following the Merger, and the Surviving Company itself) maintaining the same number of ordinary shares of Recordati held by them as at such date.

The Merger will not entail any change in the share capital of the Surviving Company nor is any balancing cash payment planned.

It should also be noted that the balance sheet and earnings profile of the entity resulting from the Merger will be substantially in line with that of the Surviving Company at present and, in particular, the Merger will not alter the net financial position and, therefore, the investment capacity of Recordati or the strategy or its capital allocation policy.

The Exchange Ratio was assessed by the Committee, supported by Prof. Pietro Mazzola as independent financial advisor, which declared that such Exchange Ratio, as identified through the calculation method submitted to the Committee, can be deemed fair from a financial perspective; the advisor further identified the assumptions which would made equally fair a possible different value calculated if the number of Recordati shares held by Fimei at the Effective Date were different from that as at 30th June 2020.

It should also be noted that, on 1 September 2020, the management bodies of the Participants in the Merger filed a petition with the Court of Milan for the appointment of the expert pursuant to Article 2501-sexies of the Italian Civil Code, with the option, in accordance with Article 2501-sexies, paragraph 4 of the Italian Civil Code, to request from the court of the place where the company resulting from the merger is based the appointment of one or more joint experts, with the task of certifying, in their report, the appropriateness of the Exchange Ratio (the "Expert").

The ordinary shares of the Surviving Company that will be reassigned to Rossini Sarl in exchange will have the same dividend entitlement date as that of the ordinary shares of Recordati in circulation on the Effective Date (as defined below) and will confer on their holder rights equivalent to those held by the holders of the ordinary shares of the Surviving Company in circulation at the time of their assignment.

It is envisaged that the Merger shall be completed by the end of the first half of 2021 and in any event following the date of approval of the financial statements of the Disappearing Companies as at 31 December 2020 and of their closing balance sheets as at 31 March 2021.

Within the technical time strictly necessary immediately after the approval of the abovementioned closing balance sheets, the Participants in the Merger will execute the Merger deed and file it with the competent Companies' Register. The transactions of the Disappearing Companies will be ascribed to the financial statements of the Surviving Company as from 1 April 2021 (the "AccountingEffective Date").

The same Accounting Effective Date will be considered the start date for the purposes referred to in Article 172, paragraph 9, of Presidential Decree No. 917 of 22 December 1986.

The Merger will produce its statutory effects as from the last registration required by Article 2504 of the Italian Civil Code (the "Effective Date"). As from that date, the Surviving Company will succeed to all the legal rights and obligations of the Disappearing Companies, which will therefore be extinguished.

The Articles of Association of the Surviving Company will not be amended as a result of the Merger.

The extraordinary shareholders' meetings of the Participants in the Merger called to approve the Merger will be convened within the terms of the law as soon as the Expert has delivered their report certifying the appropriateness of the Exchange Ratio.

If the extraordinary shareholders' meetings of the Participants in the Merger approve the Merger Plan, the shareholders of Recordati who did not vote on the resolution to approve the Merger will not have the right of withdrawal, in any case, pursuant to Article 2437, paragraph 1, letter a), of the Italian Civil Code, or on any other grounds, as the company object of the Disappearing Companies does not provide for the performance of any commercial and/or industrial activity, but exclusively the assumption, holding, management and disposal, in an entrepreneurial and organised form, of the shareholding held (directly or indirectly) in Recordati and in the affiliated companies of Recordati, and therefore, following the Merger, no amendment will be made to the Recordati company object clause to include a significant change in its activity, nor will there be any exclusion from listing of Recordati.

In addition to the approval of the Merger Plan by the extraordinary shareholders' meetings of the Participants in the Merger, pursuant to Article 2502 of the Italian Civil Code, completion of the Transaction is subject to the occurrence of the following conditions:

non-receipt of communications from the Presidency of the Council of Ministers - to which the Merger shall be notified pursuant to Legislative Decree No. 21/2012, converted with Law No. 56/2012, containing "Rules concerning special powers over corporate assets in the defence and national security sectors, as well as for activities of strategic importance in the energy, transport and communication sectors", and subsequent measures in this regard (the " Golden Power law ") - concerning the exercise of vetoes and/or remarks and/or the imposition of conditions on the Merger pursuant to the same Golden Power law, by the Effective Date;

") - concerning the exercise of vetoes and/or remarks and/or the imposition of conditions on the Merger pursuant to the same Golden Power law, by the Effective Date; issue of a positive opinion on the appropriateness of the Exchange Ratio by the joint Expert;

non-occurrence of one or more events or circumstances with a significant negative effect on the activities, legal relationships, liabilities and/or operating results of the Participants in the Merger, and, in any case, such as to alter the risk profile or assessments on which the Exchange Ratio is based, by the Effective Date;

the absence, on the Effective Date, of pledges or other rights in rem of third parties on shares representing the entire share capital of Fimei and on shares representing the entire share capital of Rossini Investimenti, on the current accounts of Fimei and Rossini Investimenti, on any claims of Rossini Investimenti against Fimei as well as personal guarantees provided by Rossini Investimenti within the framework of the indirect acquisition of Recordati.

Therefore, subject to the fulfilment of the aforementioned conditions, and assuming the absence of events outside the sphere of control of the Participants in the Merger, which could cause a delay in activities, the Participants in the Merger plan to complete the Transaction during the first half of 2021.

Shareholders post-Merger

As stated, the Exchange Ratio indicated in the Merger Plan provides that third-party shareholders (i.e. other than Rossini Sarl, following the Merger, and the Incorporating Company itself) will maintain the same number of ordinary shares of Recordati held by them at that date.

Therefore, on the basis of the current indirect holding of CVC Capital Partners VII Limited in Recordati and the Exchange Ratio, CVC Capital Partners VII Limited would continue to hold, indirectly, 51.820% of the ordinary capital of Recordati S.p.A as resulting from the Merger and, subject to any changes in shareholdings and/or the number of own shares independent of the Merger, which are unforeseeable and unquantifiable as at today's date, the shareholder structure of the issuer would be unchanged.

Procedure followed for approval of the Transaction

In a communication dated 15 June 2020, Rossini Luxembourg, in its capacity as a company that performs management and coordination activity over all of the Participants in the Merger, expressed its intention to proceed with the Merger and invited Recordati, Rossini Investimenti and Fimei to take the necessary steps to complete the Transaction.

In view of the aforementioned nature of the Merger as a "major" transaction between related parties, the Committee was informed of the Transaction promptly and, as of June 2020, received several drafts of an information dossier relating to the proposed terms and conditions of the Merger, continuously supplemented and updated on the basis of the requests of the Committee, the final version of which was delivered to the Committee on 26 September 2020 (the "Dossier").

As from receipt of the first draft of the Dossier, the Committee - which in the performance of its work and for the purposes of issuing its decision on the Merger decided to consult (i) Prof. Pietro Mazzola, through Partners S.p.A., as an independent financial expert, (ii) Studio Legale Galbiati, Sacchi e Associati, in the person of senior partner Aldo Sacchi, as legal advisor to the Committee in the context of the decision-making process resulted in the issuance of the opinion provided by Article 8 of the OPC Regulations, and (iii) Studio McDermott Will & Emery, as independent tax advisor, - promptly began the activities preliminary to the examination of the Merger and the merger agreement and was duly involved in the negotiation, investigation and approval of the proposed resolution to be submitted to the extraordinary shareholders' meeting of Recordati through the receipt of a complete, timely and adequate information flow on the terms and conditions of the Transaction, including with reference to the Merger Agreement. More specifically, this information - which allowed the Committee to be constantly updated on the development of the activities carried out in relation to the Merger - concerned the existence and nature of the correlation, implementation and conditions for carrying out the Merger, the assessment procedure followed, the interests and grounds underlying the Transaction, as well as the risk profiles inherent in the Transaction.

Furthermore, the Committee which, as described in more detail in the Information Document, met on several occasions, exercised its right to request information and formulate observations, receiving prompt feedback from the management involved in the investigation phase.

On conclusion of its activities, on 28 September 2020 and [unanimously], the Committee expressed its favourable opinion on the existence of Recordati's interest in carrying out the Transaction, as well as on the expediency and substantial correctness of the relevant conditions, as set out in the Merger Plan and the Merger Agreement. This opinion will be appended to the Information Document together with the fairness opinion of the financial advisor engaged by the Committee, Pietro Mazzola, relating to the appropriateness of the Exchange Ratio, and the opinion of the Committee's tax advisor.

As per the subject of this press release, the Merger Plan was finally approved by the Boards of Directors of the Participants in the Merger as at today's date.

As indicated above, the Participants in the Merger and Rossini Luxembourg also signed the Merger Agreement today.

Consultants

The Committee was assisted by the following advisors for the Transaction:

Pietro Mazzola, through Partners S.p.A., as independent financial advisor;

Studio Legale Galbiati, Sacchi e Associati, in the person of senior partner, Aldo Sacchi, as legal advisor;

Studio Dermott Will & Emery, as independent tax advisor.

The Boards of Directors of the Participants in the Merger were assisted by:

Studio Legale Gattai, Minoli, Agostinelli & Partners, as legal advisor;

Facchini Rossi Michelutti Studio Legale Tributario, as tax advisor.

Furthermore, the Surviving Company was assisted by Studio Gatti, Pavesi, Bianchi exclusively with regard to matters relating to the negotiation of the Merger Agreement.

It should also be noted that, in view of the fact that the Committee identified, in addition to a legal advisor, both a financial advisor and a tax advisor to support its investigative activities, the Surviving Company has decided, also in order to safeguard cost efficiency, not to entrust further professionals with tasks having the same scope of work , and has vetted that its evaluations as to the Exchange Ratio itself led essentially to the same conclusions of the financial advisor and of the tax advisor identified by the Committee.

Further information

For more information on the terms and methods of execution of the Transaction, please refer to the Merger Plan, the Information Document and the explanatory report of the Board of Directors of Recordati prepared pursuant to Article 2501-quinquies of the Italian Civil Code and Article 70, paragraph 2, of the Issuers' Regulation.

Said documents and the remaining documentation required by the provisions of law and regulations will be made available to the public according to the terms and conditions of law and regulations.

Note that the documentation relating to the shareholders' meeting of Recordati will be made available to the public, under the terms and conditions established by the provisions of law and regulations, at the registered office, on the website www.recordati.com and on the authorised storage mechanism 1Info https://www.1info.it .

Conference Call

Note that Recordati will organise a conference call on Friday, 2nd October at 8:30 am CET. Access numbers are as follows:

Italy: +39 02 8058811, Freephone 800 213 858

UK: +44 1 212818003, Freephone 0 800 0156384

USA: +1 718 7058794, Freephone +1 855 2656959

France: +33 170918703

Germany: +49 69 255114451

If you are interested, please call 10 minutes before the start. To get support from the Help Desk, enter *0 or call +39 02 8061371.

A recording of the conference call will be available at www.recordati.com.

A set of slides which will be referred to during the call are available on our website www.recordati.com under Investors/Company Presentations.

Recordati, established in 1926, is an international pharmaceutical group, listed on the Italian Stock Exchange (Reuters RECI.MI, Bloomberg REC IM, ISIN IT 0003828271), with a total staff of more than 4,300, dedicated to the research, development, manufacturing and marketing of pharmaceuticals. Headquartered in Milan, Italy, Recordati has operations throughout the whole of Europe, including Russia, Turkey, North Africa, the United States of America, Canada, Mexico, some South American countries, Japan and Australia. An efficient field force of medical representatives promotes a wide range of innovative pharmaceuticals, both proprietary and under license, in a number of therapeutic areas including a specialized business dedicated to treatments for rare diseases. Recordati is a partner of choice for new product licenses for its territories. Recordati is committed to the research and development of new specialties with a focus on treatments for rare diseases. Consolidated revenue for 2019 was  1,481.8 million, operating income was  465.3 million and net income was  368.9 million.

For further information:

Recordati website: www.recordati.com

Investor Relations Media Relations

Marianne Tatschke Studio Noris Morano

(39)0248787393 (39)0276004736, (39)0276004745

e-mail: investorelations@recordati.it e-mail: norismorano@studionorismorano.com



Statements contained in this release, other than historical facts, are "forward-looking statements" (as such term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995). These statements are based on currently available information, on current best estimates, and on assumptions believed to be reasonable. This information, these estimates and assumptions may prove to be incomplete or erroneous, and involve numerous risks and uncertainties, beyond the Company's control. Hence, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. All mentions and descriptions of Recordati products are intended solely as information on the general nature of the company's activities and are not intended to indicate the advisability of administering any product in any particular instance.

Attachment
Courtney Banks, who has worked in events and catering at the Chateau Marmont, writes a message in support of hotel workers who lost their jobs. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed a bill Wednesday that would have provided sweeping new labor protections for workers laid off during the pandemic by requiring hotel, airport and janitorial employers to rehire based on seniority.

Assembly Bill 3216 by Assemblyman Ash Kalra (D-San Jose) called for employers in those industries to first rehire workers they laid off during a state of emergency, including in cases in which a new owner takes over a business. The protections pushed by labor groups targeted businesses, including event centers and building maintenance, that have let go a third of their workforce as a result of COVID-19.

Newsom said the bill was too prescriptive and threatened to hurt the already devastated hospitality industry.

"I recognize the real problem this bill is trying to fix  to ensure that workers who have been laid off due to the COVID-19 pandemic have certainty about their rehiring and job security," Newsom said in his veto message, adding that the bill would apply to layoffs unrelated to a state of emergency.

"Tying the bill's provisions to a state of emergency will create a confusing patchwork of requirements in different counties at different times," Newsom's message said.

Newsom's veto was made public late Wednesday on the final day for the governor to take action on bills passed by the Legislature last month. His veto message for the labor-backed bill was posted online without the governor's office first announcing it.

Kalra called Newsom's veto "devastating news."

"This feels like a missed chance at a recovery for all," Kalra said Wednesday in a statement.

Kalra, Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez (D-San Diego) and Sen. Maria Elena Durazo (D-Los Angeles) called the bill a "job saver" in a letter to Newsom urging the governor to sign the bill.

Republicans and business groups opposed the bill, arguing that the right of recall provisions  which would require employers to extend offers of employment to laid-off workers  were unworkable and would hamper industries trying to reopen.

Story continues

The California Chamber of Commerce included AB 3216 on its annual job killer list highlighting laws corporate interests say will hurt employment and the economy. The chamber said the bill "imposes an onerous and stringent process for specific employers to return employees to the workforce, which will delay rehiring and subject employers to litigation for any alleged mistakes."

The National Federation of Independent Business, which represents small business interests, highlighted AB 3216 as an example of California making it harder for businesses to rebound from the pandemic.

"Small employers need flexibility to hire or rehire during these terrible times on Main Street," said John Kabateck, the California state director at the National Federation of Independent Business, which has 15,000 members in California. "AB 3216 places far too many rules and requirements on already fragile mom and pops, forcing them to adhere to unreasonable timelines and procedures or face the likelihood of frivolous lawsuits brought upon by scheming plaintiffs attorneys."

With business interests pushing hard for Newsom to veto the bill, labor groups ramped up their own campaign to see it signed.

Nine labor leaders appointed to the Governor's Task Force on Business and Jobs Recovery sent a letter Sept. 13 urging Newsom to sign the bill, saying the protections are needed to ensure there is a "fair and equitable recovery that will help some of those Californians most hard-hit by the pandemic and economic crisis  Latinos, immigrants and women workers."

The labor leaders highlighted a story in The Los Angeles Times featuring Raquel Lezama, a minibar attendant laid off in March from the luxury hotel Mr. C Beverly Hills. Lezama said that after she was laid off, she was told her termination was final and that if the hotel rehired in the future, she would have to reapply and start at minimum wage with no seniority.

Thousands of workers share similar stories, wrote the labor leaders, including D. Taylor, president of Unite Here, Art Pulaski of the California Labor Federation, Mary Kay Henry, president of SEIU International and Ron Herrera, president of the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor.

"The lack of recall or retention rights gives employers the ability to rehire workers at lower pay rates without any seniority," the letter to the governor reads. "They can hide discrimination against older workers or workplace activists that may have raised issues in the past."

Right to recall protections have been adopted in several California cities, including in Santa Monica, the city and county of Los Angeles, Pasadena, Glendale and Long Beach, Hernandez said. Santa Monica adopted a right to retention ordinance following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, which left many too scared to travel "and resulted in tremendous declines in tourism," said Santa Monica City Councilwoman Gleam Davis.

"We got the same apocalyptic warnings that this will be bad for business and would hurt the ability of the economy to come back," Davis said. "That turned out not to be true. Our economy came back stronger than ever, but the best thing about it was the workers who helped build the economy in the first place were able to participate in that recovery."

Walter Almendarez, 43, of Palmdale said the bill would have ensured he would get his job back and given him a peace of mind that he hasn't felt in months. Almendarez said he was fired along with his coworkers as the pandemic hit in March from Chateau Marmont in West Hollywood, where he worked for 23 years and made $15.45 an hour as a bellman at the hotel. He said beyond the likelihood that he will have to start over at minimum wage, he will also lose the more generous vacation benefits the hotel no longer offers new employees.

The hotel would have been required to rehire workers let go due to the pandemic under local ordinances, Almendarez said, but its owners have since announced that they plan to reopen as a private club, though it will not be fully closed to the public. AB 3216 applied the rehire protections to private clubs.

"There are a lot of people who work in the hotel industry who are impacted," Almendarez said. "I'm still struggling with my bills and my mortgage. Now, there are no jobs anywhere."

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A refugee mother from the Democratic Republic of Congo sits outside a shelter with her baby in Toko Kota in the Central African Republic.  UNHCR/Stella Fatime

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency and some 100 non-governmental organisations (NGOs), today called on global leaders to ensure that refugees are included in social safety nets and support services for COVID-19 and stressed the need for stronger integration of refugees and refugee-led organisations, their skills and knowledge, in humanitarian responses.

The call came as part of the annual consultations between UNHCR and NGOs, co-hosted by UNHCR and the International Council of Voluntary Agencies (ICVA), that were held from 28 to 30 September. This years theme, Responding to Pandemics, focused on how UNHCR and partners respond and can strengthen partnerships in responses to COVID-19 and other pandemics. The event was attended by participants representing some 100 NGOs, as well as refugee themselves, academia, faith-based organisations and international agencies. For the first time, these NGO consultations were held online in four different languages and across seven time zones.

Thanks also to preparedness measures, we have not yet seen any major outbreaks amongst refugees, said Filippo Grandi, UN High Commissioner for Refugees. The greatest challenge now will be to shield refugees from the economic impacts of the pandemic, which have hit the most marginalized, including refugees, the hardest. We need to focus on livelihoods and access to work for refugees to avoid them being pushed further into poverty. Only this will allow refugee families to survive.

The event started with a panel discussion with Grandi, ICVA Executive Director Ignacio Packer and Najeeba Wazefadost, an Afghan refugee in Australia, co-founder or the Global Independent Refugee Women Leaders and the Executive Director of Asia Pacific Network of Refugees.

Further sessions focused on three key subthemes around protection challenges, resilience and inclusion of refugees and climate action, particularly how to identify entry points for partnership and community engagement.

"The pandemic has highlighted the need for us to work in close partnership so that we are able to stay and deliver, said Packer. For NGOs, the ability to stay and deliver rests on four key enablers: field presenceand operational footprint, adaptation, access to timely, predictableflexible funding as well as the ability to procure and deliver the most needed items.

Wazefadost warned that refugee women and girls are particularly vulnerable to abuse and exploitation, including debt bondage, modern slavery and human trafficking, as they are often excluded from social safety nets.

What we have learned during this pandemic is the importance of prioritizing the needs of women and girls, we need to look for allies, said Wazefadost. In responding to COVID19, we need to create a firewall between immigration policies and health measures so that everyone can access health care without fear of detention, deportation or stigmatization.

Participants also acknowledged the need to develop innovative new ways of working that better leverage the capabilities of refugee-led organisations and more deeply integrates them with the refugee response.

The consultations also included cultural events, such as UNHCRs first digital 3 D refugee art exhibition, A world where kindness defeats Covid-19, which featured 35 winning drawings created by young artists aged from 12-25 that participated in UNHCRs Youth with Refugees Art Contest.

Sudanese refugee and UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador Emi Mahmoud, read out her poem called The Seven Stages of Grief During Coronavirus. With powerful words, Emi described how refugees felt and struggled during the pandemic, Some things that havent been stopped by COVID-19: wars, domestic violence, famine, pestilence, displacement  our will to live.

For more information on this topic, please contact:
Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has appealed for unity as the country celebrates its 60th independence anniversary.



Nigeria gained independence from Britain on 1 October 1960. Seven years later, a civil war erupted as the south-eastern region tried to form the breakaway Biafra state.



Millions of people are believed to have been killed before the war ended in 1970.



Tensions have persisted between the north and south and there have been rivalries between ethnic groups.



''An underlying cause of most of the problems we have faced as a nation is in our consistent harping on artificially contrived fault-lines that we have harboured and allowed unnecessarily to fester,'' President Buhari said in a televised address on Thursday.



He promised to consolidate Nigerias democracy and called for patriotism.



The president suggested that Nigerias population - now around 200 million and projected to be the third-highest in the world by 2050 - is both a challenge and an asset for the country.



The president said Nigerias revenues dropped by 60% this year largely due to the fall in global oil prices in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.



He defended his government decision to withdraw a fuel subsidy which saw fuel prices rise by 11% in recent weeks. He said the subsidy was unsustainable.



Mr Buhari said his government had managed to keep the economy moving despite lean resources and what he called "disproportionate" spending on security problems.

Source: BBC









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.

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NAPA, Calif.  Will Abrams and his family packed their pickup truck with laptops, clothes, sleeping bags and a tent and quickly left their rental home in Californias wine country after seeing flames on a hill about a quarter-mile away Monday morning. It was their third hurried fire evacuation in as many years.

In 2017, Abrams woke up to find their Santa Rosa home on fire and cleared burning branches from the driveway so he could get his wife and children to safety. Their home was destroyed. Then last year, the family evacuated as another wildfire bore down on Sonoma County. They were terrified to cross into the San Francisco Bay Area amid smaller grassland fires sparked by power lines falling in the midst of strong, hot winds.

This time we hurried up and packed up the car, and we were in gridlock traffic on (Highway) 12 while the flames were approaching from behind, Abrams said Tuesday. He and his wife tried to entertain the kids by making conversation so they wouldnt panic. It was just obviously traumatic on a personal level, but also just that so little has changed since the fires of 2017 in terms of preparedness and prevention.

They have been told this home is still standing. But with the Glass Fire only 2% contained, the Abrams and their 12-year-old son and 9-year-old daughter are staying in Berkeley until they are allowed to return.

Im trying to prepare my kids and let them know that climate change is part of life and theyre going to have to deal with it as they get older and also trying to provide them a sense of safety and security. Its not easy. But we should not accept this is the way its going to be, he said.

The Abrams family is among thousands of weary wine country residents confronting another devastating wildfire. The Glass Fire, which started Sunday, has scorched nearly 73 square miles (more than 188 square kilometers) and destroyed about 95 structures, including at least 80 homes.

Its the fourth major fire there in three years and comes ahead of the third anniversary of a 2017 wildfire that killed 22 people. Three fires, driven by gusty winds and high temperatures, merged into one on Sunday, tearing into vineyards and mountain areas, including part of the city of Santa Rosa. About 70,000 people were under evacuation orders, including the entire 5,000-plus population of Calistoga in Napa County.

Numerous studies have linked bigger wildfires in America to climate change from the burning of coal, oil and gas. Scientists say climate change has made California much drier, meaning trees and other plants are more flammable.

The Glass Fire spread rapidly and is now burning through land that was saved from the other recent wine country fires, Cal Fire Assistant Chief Billy See said. Some of the land has not burned for a century, while crews are now using old containment lines to fight the current fire, relieved slightly by easing winds.

Its one of nearly 30 wildfires burning around California. The state has already seen more than 8,100 wildfires that have killed 29 people, scorched 5,780 square miles (14,970 square kilometers) and destroyed more than 7,000 buildings.

Patrick Ryan, who lives in Sonoma County just outside Santa Rosa, stayed up the whole night trying to fight the flames and save his house, which survived.

Surreal, let me just put it that way. It brings everything about that night in 2017 right back again, Ryan said.

Mike Christianson and his wife, Mluz Torres, who were at an evacuation center Tuesday, had watched the fire engulf their Napa County home.

It was within five minutes, the entire side of the hill was on fire. All trees, all burning, all roaring like a jet, he said. And at that moment, we realized that it was time to go. So we grabbed a few things, jumped in the car.

Sonoma County Sheriff Mark Essick acknowledged some significant fire fatigue in the community during a news conference Tuesday.

Many people are feeling the effects, many people are evacuating, and evacuated multiple times, and I just want everyone to know that we continue to support you, Essick said.

The blaze tore through many iconic wineries in Napa and Sonoma counties and the five-starred Meadowood Resort, home to a three-Michelin-starred restaurant.

Further to the north, in what has already been a historically devastating wildfire season for California, a blaze in a heavily forested area of rural Shasta County has killed three people and destroyed nearly 150 buildings. The circumstances of their deaths are not known. More than 1,200 people were evacuated for the Zogg Fire, which has burned more than 72 square miles (nearly 203 square kilometers).

Zogg incident commander Sean Kavanaugh said winds from the north have subsided, giving firefighters an opportunity to get resources around the large fire.

The weather has given us a break. Were going to take the opportunity where we can, with the change in the weather, the calmness, he said.

That area, too, has seen recent fire devastation. It was torched just two years ago by the deadly Carr Fire _ infamously remembered for producing a huge tornado-like fire whirl.

About the photo: Charred wine bottles rest at Castello di Amorosa, Monday, Sept. 28, 2020, in Calistoga, Calif., which was damaged in the Glass Fire. (AP Photo/Noah Berger)

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany falsely claimed that Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett is a Rhodes scholar, when she in fact attended Rhodes College. (EPA)

White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany began her press briefing on Thursday by touting the qualifications of Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett. And while the conservative federal judge has a lengthy list of accolades on her resume, she is not, as Ms McEnany falsely claimed, a Rhodes scholar.

"When you said Judge Barrett was a Rhodes scholar, I don't believe that is true," a reporter noted during the briefing, just moments after the claim was made.

Ms McEnany glanced at her notes and replied, "Well, that's what I have written here."

This reporter just exposed Kayleigh McEnany for lying about Amy Coney Barrett being a Rhodes Scholar. Barrett attended Rhodes College. pic.twitter.com/u9Qk5uZEhp  NowThis (@nowthisnews) October 1, 2020

The reporter then pointed out that Ms Barrett actually attended Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee, where she received her undergraduate degree.

"Attended Rhodes College. So, my bad," the press secretary shrugged, acknowledging her mistake.

The Rhodes Scholarship is the oldest and arguably most prestigious international scholarship program, awarded to outstanding students from around the world to study at the University of Oxford in England. The Rhodes Scholarship and Tennessee's Rhodes College have no relation to one another.

The walk-back lit up social media, with some people pointing out that Fox News made the same error while reporting on Ms Barrett's nomination last week when an on-air graphic referred to her as a "Rhodes scholar."

Like Kayleigh McEnany several days later (https://t.co/aFplb5boWl), Fox News falsely claimed on September 25 that Amy Coney Barrett is a "Rhodes scholar" (she went to Rhodes College). Fox's error was originally flagged in this tweet on that day: https://t.co/UjtHvJaav9 pic.twitter.com/RUUuPhvxfK  Eric Hananoki (@ehananoki) October 1, 2020

President Donald Trump's selection of Ms Barrett as his nominee to fill the Supreme Court seat came just eight days after Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg died, and 38 days before the presidential election on November 3. Ms Barrett's confirmation hearing is set for October 12, but Democrats are fighting for a delay in the confirmation until the next president has been inaugurated.

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Kayleigh McEnany says Supreme Court needs more conservative justices after series of rulings against Donald Trump

Trump offered Barrett Supreme Court nomination same day he met her, according to Senate questionnaire

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Linkedin Budi Sutrisno (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Thu, October 1, 2020 15:35 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c487a044 1 Business Indonesia,South-Korea,bilateral-cooperation,bilateral-relation,investment,BKPM,Foreign-Affairs-Ministry,Foreign-Minister-Retno-Marsudi,erick-thohir,Bahlil-Lahadalia Free

Indonesia and South Korea have strengthened their business ties with investments worth trillions of rupiah that will also create thousands of job opportunities in the Southeast Asian country.

A recent visit of State-Owned Enterprises Minister Erick Thohir and Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) head Bahlil Lahadalia to Seoul resulted in at least three business deals, Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said on Wednesday.

South Korean glass manufacturer KC Glass Co. Ltd. is set to invest Rp 5.1 trillion (US$342.9 million) in a deal that can help employ up to 1,300 Indonesian workers.

Meanwhile, garment company PT Sejin Fashion Indonesia, a subsidiary of South Korean footwear manufacturer Parkland Co., Ltd., plans to relocate its production base from China to Indonesia. With an investment of Rp 1.2 trillion, it could provide 4,000 new jobs for Indonesians.

South Koreas largest chemical company, LG Chem Ltd., is set to develop an electric car battery plant and bring a "huge amount" of investment into the archipelago, Retno said, though the exact figure was still being calculated.

As Indonesia faces an economic downturn because of the COVID-19 crisis, a wave of foreign companies has confirmed plans to relocate their production facilities to the country, mostly from China, which is predicted to bring $850 million in investments and employ up to Indonesian 30,000 workers.

Read also: Indonesia teams up with global manufacturers in vaccine hunt

In the health sector, Indonesia and South Korea are currently working together through pharmaceutical companies Kalbe Farma and Genexine to develop a COVID-19 vaccine.

Since the beginning [of the pandemic], South Korea has been an important partner for Indonesia in providing medical supplies needed to handle COVID-19, including personal protective equipment, Retno said.

Amid global travel restrictions in place due to the novel coronavirus, Indonesia and South Korea arranged a travel corridor for essential business and official visits (TCA), effective on Aug. 17.

During a courtesy visit to Jakarta on Monday, South Korean Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Kim Gunn expressed his appreciation for Indonesias consistency in promoting multilateralism and its commitment to maintaining regional stability in ASEAN, Retno said.

[Kim] took a good look at the message conveyed in the statement of ASEAN foreign ministers on Aug. 8 regarding ASEANs commitment to maintaining regional peace, stability and prosperity, Retno said.

In addition, Kim delivered an invitation from South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha to conduct a Joint Ministerial Commission in Seoul at the end of this year and to participate in the UN Peacekeeping Operations Ministerial Meeting next year, she added.
Ezintsha study provides new data on current ART regimens with concerns about weight gain

The SA ADVANCE study of the potency and safety of SA's commonly used antiretroviral treatment regimens has published new safety data, especially on weight gain.

Ezintsha, a research group at Wits University that investigates better options for first-line antiretroviral treatment (ART) regimens for people with HIV, today published its 96-week outcomes in the prestigious Lancet HIV medical journal.

Conducted in central Johannesburg, the ADVANCE research study looked at the potency and safety of South Africas commonly used antiretroviral treatment regimens.

The study enrolled over 1000 participants, recruited from routine HIV services in and around the inner city area of Hillbrow, and analysed two of the current Department of Health antiretroviral regimens recommended in the 2019 ART guidelines, and a third regimen favoured by higher-income countries.

The newer regimens appeared to have side effect and resistance benefits over older regimens, and potential cost benefits, but little research had been done on African populations with them till now.

All three regimens were very potent and well tolerated by patients, however, the newer regimens containing dolutegravir (DTG) and tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) demonstrated a large increase in weight, especially in women.

After 96 weeks of treatment, the percentage of people with viral suppression was:

79% in the TAF/emtricitabine (FTC)+DTG arm

78% in the TDF (tenofovir disoproxil fumarate)/FTC+DTG arm, and

74% in the TDF/FTC/EFV (efavirenz) arm.

There were no significant differences in overall efficacy between the three treatments tested.

In terms of weight gain, after 96 weeks of treatment, men gained:

5.4 kg in the TAF/FTC+DTG arm

3.6 kg in the TDF/FTC+DTG arm, and

1.1 kg in the TDF/FTC/EFV arm.

For women, at the same timepoint, the weight gain was:

8.1 kg in the TAF/FTC+DTG arm

4.8 kg in the TDF/FTC+DTG arm, and

3.2 kg in the TDF/FTC/EFV arm.

The treatment emergent obesity for women at week 96 was:

28% for those on TAF/FTC+DTG (5% for men)

18% for those on TDF/FTC+DTG (4% for men), and

12% for those on TDF/FTC/EFV (3% for men).

Dr Simiso Sokhela, lead clinician on the study, presented additional results in a high-profile oral presentation at the 23rd International AIDS Conference in July, commented: We are concerned about the weight gain and body composition changes which are more severe in women, and we have predicted new risk of associated diabetes and other complications, especially when taking both TAF and DTG together. The 96 week results supports the WHO treatment guidelines which reserve TAF only for patients with osteoporosis or impaired renal function."

Professor Francois Venter, head of Ezintsha at Wits, added: This was a huge and complex international collaboration, and I am proud of the team achieving such a high quality result. We thought we had found the magic bullet for our patients, but it is clear there is much more work to be done on antiretroviral safety. It is imperative we do these studies locally, as toxicity seems to vary significantly by population.

One of the most worrying data points were that the women in the study were actually heavier than the men before starting treatment, a stark reminder that South Africa has a major obesity problem among women, made worse with these new drugs.

Its a headache for public health programmes that have delivered HIV treatment so effectively in the last decade, and we need to be looking to the future for alternatives that are safer.

The study team is considering the best options for patients to reduce their risk of long-term co-morbidities, and will be consulting with patient groups, researchers and other expert groups to get guidance.

The results support the current recommendation from the World Health Organization to use dolutegravir as first-line treatment for HIV, with efavirenz as an alternative option. However, the results suggest that dolutegravir should be combined with TDF/FTC, which is associated with suppression of weight gain, and not with the newer combination of TAF/FTC, which is associated with excess weight gain and clinical obesity, especially in women.

South Africa has the largest antiretroviral programme in the world with over 6 million people on treatment. The programme has resulted in a large increase in South African life expectancy and it has contributed to a large decrease in new HIV transmissions over the last few years.

Of concern is that South Africa has an obesity epidemic, with related diabetes the second commonest cause of death in the country, and both are implicated in Covid-19 severity.

The South African government has been briefed on the results of the ADVANCE study, as has the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority, the Food and Drug Administration, and the World Health Organization. The results of ADVANCE have informed international and local HIV treatment guidelines.

About the ADVANCE Study

The ADVANCE study was conceived by a team of research collaborators from Ezintsha, the Clinton Health Access Initiative, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, ViiV Healthcare, HIV i-Base, Mylan, the University of Liverpool, and Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, with subsequent input from ViiV Healthcare and Gilead Sciences, as well as the Department of Health, Treatment Action Campaign, World Health Organization and others.

This study is led by South African researchers from Wits University in an international alliance with public health and clinical researchers, the South African government, activist groups, and pharmaceutical manufacturers, in a programme linked to community education programmes about the new drugs across the region.

ADVANCE is funded by Unitaid, USAID, the South African Medical Research Council, and ViiV Healthcare. In addition investigational products are donated by ViiV Healthcare and Gilead Sciences.
Hundreds of thousands of middle and high school students in New York City are being sent back to classrooms for in-person instruction today as the pandemic continues to spread throughout the school system and the city. The following is a statement adopted Wednesday night by the New York City Educators Rank-and-File Safety Committee.

The Mayor Bill de Blasio and the Department of Education (DOE), with the full collaboration of the United Federation of Teachers (UFT), are resuming in-person instruction with complete disregard for the safety and lives of hundreds of thousands of students, educators and our families. This action can only produce a catastrophe in a city where so many lives have already been lost.

The percentage of those tested who are positive for the coronavirus has increased to 3.25 percent, and it is even higher in the working class areas of Queens and Brooklyn. Some city suburbs now have rates as high as 30 percent. Under these conditions, the outcome of reopening the schools will be mass sickness from the virus and death on the scale of March and April or even worse.

The opening of the New York City schools, the largest district in the nation, is being used to set a precedent to reopen Los Angeles, Chicago and other major urban school districts that are still teaching remotely. Whatever their rhetorical differences with Trump, Democrats like de Blasio, Cuomo and Biden fully support the reopening of schools and businesses in order to restart the flow of corporate profits. They are indifferent to the human cost of their herd immunity policy and even welcome the killing off of older workers whom the financial oligarchy considers too costly to keep alive.

The New York City Educators Rank-and-File Committee opposes this homicidal policy and calls on teachers, other school employees, students, parents and workers throughout the city to form safety committees in your local schools and communities to take the actions necessary to defend our lives. These committees must expose unsafe conditions in schools, inform the public about outbreaks, enforce health and safety conditions, and if immediate improvements, approved by these safety committees, are not put in place, prepare a citywide strike to shut the schools and protect lives.

The New York City Educators Rank-and-File Committee and the local safety committees we are encouraging to be established are completely independent from the UFT. In response to the growing public outrage, UFT President Michael Mulgrew is urging de Blasio to consider closing 80 schools in zip codes with the highest infection rates. This is a fraud. The disease does not recognize zip codes, and all 1,800 schools in the city threaten to be vectors for the spread of the contagion.

Independent rank-and-file safety committees should take the initiative to inspect buildings with medical professionals and HVAC specialists to ensure that air filtration systems do not spread the virus. The committees must enforce small enough class sizes to ensure proper social distancing. They must guarantee that adequate personal protective equipment is supplied. Information about conditions in each school should be widely publicized by these committees on social media and in the form of leaflets distributed in working class neighborhoods.

At the same time, these committees must oppose the efforts by de Blasio and the DOE to exploit the pandemic to force out older, higher-paid teachers and replace them with substitutes who are little more than temps. Students and their families must be provided with the latest computer technology and high-speed internet access to guarantee the highest quality of education in their homes, instead of the haphazard methods being used by the district to sabotage remote learning and force students and teachers back into infected schools.

The economic crisis in the citywith more than one million jobless New Yorkersis being exploited to pressure workers to return to unsafe workplaces and slash even more money from social services. In an open letter de Blasio, the Partnership for New York City, an organization of real estate tycoons and the citys financial oligarchy, instructed the mayor to implement law-and-order measures and reject demands for support to the unemployed and working class renters.

The fight to protect health and safety must be combined with a fight against the massive austerity measures being prepared that would include the layoff of tens of thousands of public workers who have sacrificed to protect their fellow citizens during this pandemic. There are ample resources to guarantee the jobs, health and well-being of workers in the city instead of the multitrillion-dollar Wall Street bailout Congress passed to enrich the billionaires. These resources must be directed to meet societys needs.

We believe that the logic of a struggle to protect the health and safety of the population leads toward a general strike, which must be the goal of this committee.

Our committee further calls for the rescinding of all cuts to public education and other vital social programs and for a sharp increase in taxes on the wealthy to:

Hire and train thousands of educators and nurses;





Provide high-quality computer equipment and free broadband to all students who are learning remotely;





Provide full financial support to parents and caregivers who must stay at home to care for their children while schools are closed;





Mass testing and rapid, effective contact tracing for all those found to be infected; and





Full medical treatment for the ill and full protection for healthcare givers, transit and logistics, and all other essential workers.

Action by New York City teachers to fight for these demands would have an electrifying effect on educators across the country and the world. Protests and job actions against unsafe reopening plans are spreading across the world, from Greece to South Carolina, Arkansas and Louisiana. Because the pandemic has a global character, it is imperative for educators rank-and-file safety committees to link up with similar committees formed internationally.

Throughout the US and the world there is growing opposition against the criminal response to the pandemic, the explosion of social inequality, endless police killings and the danger of dictatorship. Trump has responded by urging his right-wing supporters to use violence and back his attempts to remain in power even if he loses the election. As for Biden and the Democrats, they are prepared to capitulate to Trump because they fear nothing more than a movement of the working class that would threaten the wealth and power of the corporate and financial elite.

But that is exactly what must be done. The New York City Educators Rank-and-File Safety Committee calls on all teachers, school employees, students, parents and other workers to join this fight to mobilize the full strength of the working class to protect our lives and our social and democratic rights. We urge you to contact us to join this fight today.
Police have released a photograph of the victim of a brutal murder in Co Antrim.

Donald Fraser-Rennie (33) was found dead in a flat in the Crebilly Road area of Ballymena on Wednesday morning.

Detectives were yesterday granted an extra 36 hours by a court to question two men aged 29 and 33-years-old who were arrested on suspicion of the murder.

Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell said: We continue to appeal to anyone who has information that could assist with the investigation to contact us.

I am also keen to speak to anyone who had been in contact with Donald at any time between, Tuesday, 29 September and 1am on Wednesday, 30 September.

Anyone who was in the Crebilly Road between mid-day on Tuesday and 1am on Wednesday.

I am particularly keen to establish whether witnesses saw or heard anything suspicious."

Police said Mr Fraser-Rennie was the victim of a "vicious, sustained and violent beating".

Anyone with information is asked to contact detectives on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference 52 30/09/20.

Alternatively information can also be provided anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
A firefighter works at the site of a forest fire in Luhansk region, Ukraine, in this handout picture released on Oct 1, 2020. (State Emergency Service Of Ukraine/Handout via Reuters)

Eight Killed, 10 Hospitalized in Forest Fires in Eastern Ukraine

KYIVEight people were killed and 10 have been hospitalized as a series of forest fires swept through part of the eastern Ukrainian region of Luhansk, the emergency service said on Thursday.

The fires threatened 22 settlements and engulfed an area of about 9,300 hectares (36 square miles), the service said in a statement, adding that 120 people had been evacuated.

Fire burns in a forest in Luhansk region, Ukraine, in this handout picture released on Sept. 30, 2020. (State Emergency Service Of Ukraine/Handout via Reuters)

Local authorities said there were a total of 146 fires, 82 of which had been extinguished.

Local Ukrainian authorities have said the fires may have been caused by shelling from a nearby area that is controlled by pro-Russian separatists, a crossing point to which was closed due to the fire.

The office of Ukraines president called on law enforcement bodies to find the cause of the fires, saying: The reasons for such a large-scale spread of fire must be clearly established.

Firefighters work at a settlement hit by a forest fire in Luhansk region, Ukraine, in this handout picture released on Oct. 1, 2020. (State Emergency Service Of Ukraine/Handout via Reuters)

We also take into account the information about provocative shelling that could have been carried out from the temporarily occupied territory  and could have caused at least some of these fires in such weather conditions, it said in a statement.

Last month the Ukrainian military accused pro-Russian separatists of violating a ceasefire with government forces.

Firefighters work at a settlement hit by a forest fire in Luhansk region, Ukraine, in this handout picture released on Oct. 1, 2020. (State Emergency Service Of Ukraine/Handout via Reuters)

The simmering conflict between Ukrainian troops and Russian-backed rebels has killed more than 13,000 people since 2014. Major combat ended with a truce agreed in the Belarus capital Minsk in 2015, but sporadic clashes still regularly kill civilians, Ukrainian soldiers, and separatists.

Earlier this year, one person died and nine were hospitalized in a similar forest fire that swept through the Luhansk region, destroying 80 dacha holiday cottages and 30 houses in two villages.

This spring, forest fires around the defunct Chernobyl nuclear plant in the north of the country and elsewhere pushed pollution levels in Ukraines capital Kyiv to the worst in the world.
Luke Hutchison said he signed up to a coronavirus vaccine trial because he's "pro science" Luke Hutchison

Luke Hutchison woke up in the middle of the night with chills and a fever after taking the Covid-19 booster shot in Moderna's vaccine trial. Another coronavirus vaccine trial participant, testing Pfizer's candidate, similarly woke up with chills, shaking so hard he cracked a tooth after taking the second dose. High fever, body aches, bad headaches and exhaustion are just some of the symptoms five participants in two of the leading coronavirus vaccine trials say they felt after receiving the shots. In interviews, all five participants  three in Moderna's study and two in Pfizer's late-stage trials  said they think the discomfort is worth it to protect themselves against the coronavirus. Four of them asked not to be identified, but CNBC reviewed documentation that verified their participation in the trials. While the symptoms were uncomfortable, and at times intense, they often went away after a day, sometimes sooner, according to three participants in the Moderna trial and one in Pfizer's as well as a person close to another participant in Moderna's trial. The phase three trials are a critical last step needed to get the vaccines cleared for distribution. At least 41 Covid-19 vaccines are in human trials worldwide but only four U.S.-backed candidates are in phase three: Moderna, Pfizer, AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson. Health officials expect to have at least one safe and effective vaccine by the end of the year.

The trials, which each have tens of thousands of participants, are double-blind, meaning half of them are receiving saline or another placebo and patients don't know what treatment they are receiving. The health care worker administering the vaccine is also in the dark. While it's possible some of the symptoms described could be attributed to an unrelated illness, Moderna and Pfizer previously said some participants in their phase one trials experienced mild Covid-19 symptoms. But Pfizer said it was in a minority of its cases. The trials are also still ongoing, so it remains to be seen how many participants who received the vaccine will report side effects. Hutchison, a 44-year-old computational biologist in Utah, said he signed up for Moderna's phase three trial because he's healthy, physically fit and a big believer in vaccines. He specifically wanted to support Moderna's effort, as he was intrigued by the company's RNA-based approach. While still experimental, mRNA vaccines potentially offer faster development and production times, which could be a major benefit during a global pandemic that has led to more than 1 million fatalities. "I had a high degree of confidence it would work and I wanted to contribute to the solution," Hutchison said.

Bed bound

After getting the first shot on Aug. 18, he said he felt a little under the weather for several days with a low-grade fever. He got his second shot at a clinic on Sept. 15. Eight hours later, he said he was bed bound with a fever of over 101, shakes, chills, a pounding headache and shortness of breath. He said the pain in his arm, where he received the shot, felt like a "goose egg on my shoulder." He hardly slept that night, recording that his temperature was higher than 100 degrees for five hours. After 12 hours, Hutchison said he felt back to normal and his energy levels returned. Having signed a lengthy consent form, Hutchison was aware that he might experience symptoms. But he was still struck by the severity and duration, tweeting on Sept. 16 that he experienced "full-on Covid-like symptoms." Two other participants in the Moderna trial, who asked to remain confidential because they feared backlash from the company, reported similar side effects. Likewise, one participant in the Pfizer trial said he experienced more severe symptoms than he expected. Moderna and Pfizer have acknowledged that their vaccines could induce side effects that are similar to symptoms associated with mild Covid-19, such as muscle pain, chills and headache. As companies progressed through clinical trials, several vaccine makers abandoned their highest doses following reports of more severe reactions. Infectious disease specialist Florian Krammer of New York's Mount Sinai said on Twitter that the side effects reported in Moderna's phase one trial are "unpleasant but not dangerous." It remains to be seen whether kids and pregnant women will experience similar symptoms.

Short-term pain

If approved, the Covid-19 vaccine would not be the first to cause short-term pain and discomfort in some recipients. "It's a simple fact that some vaccines are more unpleasant to take than others," Stat News' Helen Branswell recently wrote. One North Carolina woman in the Moderna study who is in her 50s said she didn't experience a fever but suffered a bad migraine that left her drained for a day and unable to focus. She said she woke up the next day feeling better after taking Excedrin, but added that Moderna may need to tell people to take a day off after a second dose. She said other people in the trial have joined a couple of private Facebook groups and have shared similar experiences. She said members of the groups also reported a fever and pain in the arm similar to getting a tetanus shot, adding "you're not going to be lifting weights or working out." "If this proves to work, people are going to have to toughen up," she said. "The first dose is no big deal. And then the second dose will definitely put you down for the day for sure. ... You will need to take a day off after the second dose."

Worth the risk

She said while uncomfortable, the apparent side effects are worth the risk of not getting Covid-19. "My hope is that this works but also that the communication [on side effects] is good," she added. A Maryland participant in his late 20s said he experienced nausea after the first shot, but it wasn't until the second that he "really felt things." He said he woke up at 1 a.m. with chills and a 104 fever. He said the fever went down after he took Advil and Tylenol but it lasted until around 8 p.m. He said Moderna promptly responded, calling him within an hour after he reported his symptoms in the app. "I wasn't sure if I needed to go to the hospital or not because 104 is pretty high," he said. "But other than that, it's been fine."

Side effects

Pfizer's phase one study showed "short-lived fever, mostly mild to moderate in severity, can be expected in a minority of recipients of BNT162b2 30mcg," spokeswoman Jerica Pitts said. "No safety signals have been identified in the study," Pitts said in an email. "As discussed earlier, safety and tolerability of our vaccine candidate are continuously monitored by Pfizer qualified personnel and a DMC, an independent external data monitoring committee, which has access to unblinded data." A Moderna spokeswoman said the company does not comment on participants in ongoing clinical trials, but added that the safety committee "has recommended that the study continue as planned" at each review. A spokesperson from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, which is helping to develop Moderna's vaccine, declined to comment and referred CNBC to a press release and Q&A for information about how participant safety is being monitored. The NIAID is not involved with the Pfizer trial.

'Educating the public'

Hutchison said he's concerned that the pharmaceutical manufacturers have not sufficiently informed the public about potential side effects. If the vaccines are approved, he fears, it might cause a widespread backlash if word spreads, which is why he decided to go public now. Polls show some 35% of Americans say they won't get a coronavirus vaccine when it is available, because of misinformation or mistrust. The White House has dubbed its project to bring a vaccine to market in record time as "Operation Warp Speed," which has raised concern that drugmakers may take shortcuts to produce one quickly. President Donald Trump's push to have a vaccine ready before the Nov. 3 election also isn't helping to allay those fears. The pharmaceutical companies tried to tamp down those doubts by releasing a joint statement in September that pledged to "stand with science," rather than politics, saying the clinical trials won't sacrifice safety or the effectiveness of a vaccine. Kolina Koltai, a vaccine researcher at the University of Washington at the Center for an Informed Public, said using "speed" to describe a national vaccine campaign can be counterproductive, even if the trials are robust. "I'm hearing from people who say they want other people to test it (the vaccine) first," she said. "There's a lot of uncertainty."

Young people

Another challenge with the vaccine is that young people, who don't tend to get as sick as people over 40, may not think they are at high risk for severe health outcomes if they get the virus. If they hear about side effects via word of mouth, they may not deem the vaccine to be worth it. The vaccine is "fairly unusual," said Dr. Peter Bach, an epidemiologist and director of the Center for Health Policy and Outcomes at Memorial Sloan-Kettering, because the benefits to some young and healthy groups may be "secondary" in nature. In other words, getting a coronavirus vaccine  like wearing a mask  may be an act of service to help protect others. But public health officials can have difficulty getting some people to wear a mask, indicating that even more people may be reluctant to get the vaccine. Hutchison is continuing to report his symptoms via an app, which serves as a form of a diary. He has returned to the clinic for follow-up visits on several occasions, including after he received the second dose. Since tweeting about his experience, Hutchison said he has received pushback from people who felt that he shouldn't have said he received the vaccine rather than the placebo. Given his symptoms, he said he thinks it's highly unlikely he was part of the control group that received a saltwater solution.

Up all night
PHOENIX and OAKDALE, Minn., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Advisor Group, the nation's largest network of independent wealth management firms, and network member firm Woodbury Financial Services today marked the two-year anniversary of Woodbury's acquisition of Capital One Investing's investment management and brokerage division. As part of this announcement, Advisor Group and Woodbury commended the former Capital One financial professionals on their strong and consistent growth since joining Woodbury.

Since the transaction closed in July 2018, the financial professionals who joined from Capital One have seamlessly converted from being bank employees to independent business owners, while successfully recruiting 27 additional professionals to their practices and significantly raising their collective client assets by approximately $1.1 billion, to a total of nearly $5.7 billion today. The group, now re-branded as the Capstone Group, has an average age of 43, and is home to six of Woodbury's top 10 producing professionals under age 40.

In addition to Woodbury Financial Services, Advisor Group also includes FSC Securities, KMS Financial Services, Royal Alliance Associates, SagePoint Financial, Securities America, Securities Service Network and Triad Advisors.

Rick Fergesen, President and CEO of Woodbury Financial Services, said, "The exceptional financial professionals who joined us from Capital One in 2018 actually made two transitions  one to Woodbury, and one into the independent channel. These financial professionals represent a model blueprint for how Woodbury and Advisor Group can support seamless transitions of large teams of professionals and drive accelerated business growth for them in the immediate. We're pleased with the strength of our transition services platform, and more importantly, we're proud of the incredible hard work, dedication and focus these financial professionals have shown in effectively re-inventing themselves as independent business owners. Two years later, they have continued to super-charge their growth, and have emerged as some of Woodbury's leading young financial professionals."

The former Capital One professionals had been W-2 employees providing investment management services to Capital One Bank customers through that firm's branches across eight states. Each professional became an independent contractor with his or her own practice after joining Woodbury.

The Capstone Group professionals formed a strong common culture through recurring study groups and ongoing contact to share best practices prior to joining Woodbury, despite being located in different geographies. The group benefitted greatly from the expanded growth resources provided by Woodbury and Advisor Group both during and after their move, including extensive transition support; Advisor Group's turnkey automated marketing and client communications platform, MyCMO; its strong technology platform and asset management offerings; and its expert practice management resources.

Jeffery Sills, Senior Vice President of Business and Field Development for Advisor Group and leader of the Capstone Group, said, "The continued growth of the Capstone Group's financial professionals two years after joining us underscores the strength of Woodbury and Advisor Group's offerings and expertise, as well as the dedication of these professionals. We were very pleased to support the group through offerings like MyCMO, which provided pre-approved, authentic client communications to help the Capstone team maintain frequent, personalized touchpoints with their large client bases both during the transition and in the years since. Looking ahead, we are excited to continue to support their ongoing growth."

Jamie Price, CEO and President of Advisor Group, said, "The financial professionals of the Capstone Group are a talented, hardworking and focused community of emerging leaders who have consistently outperformed our expectations since they joined Woodbury and Advisor Group. We have been proud to stand in their corner with sophisticated growth resources and tools, not only to help them with the transition to Woodbury, but to help them master the nuances of the independent channel. From recruiting additional advisors, to building their businesses with increased wallet share and referral capture, we congratulate these financial professionals on all they have achieved, and we look forward to all that they will continue to accomplish in the years ahead."

About Woodbury Financial Services

Woodbury Financial Services, Inc. is part of Advisor Group, the nation's largest network of independent wealth management firms, and is a Registered Investment Advisor, member FINRA and SIPC. Woodbury Financial has nearly 1,600 affiliated independent financial advisors and is headquartered in Oakdale, MN. Woodbury employs a client-driven approach focused on meeting the unique demands of businesses and individuals. For more information visit https://www.joinwoodbury.com/.

About Advisor Group

Advisor Group, Inc. is the nation's largest network of independent wealth management firms, serving approximately 11,100 financial professionals and overseeing over $450 billion in client assets. The firm is mission-driven to support the strategic role that advisors can play in the lives of their clients. Cultivating a spirit of entrepreneurship and independence, Advisor Group champions the enduring value of financial professionals and is committed to being in their corner every step of the way. For more information visit https://www.advisorgroup.com.

Securities and investment advisory services are offered through Advisor Group, Inc. subsidiaries, FSC Securities Corporation, KMS Financial Services, Inc., Royal Alliance Associates, Inc., SagePoint Financial, Inc., Triad Advisors, LLC, and Woodbury Financial Services, Inc., broker-dealers, registered investment advisers, and members of FINRA and SIPC. Securities services are offered through Investacorp, Inc., Securities America, Inc., and Securities Service Network, broker-dealers and members of FINRA and SIPC. Advisory services are offered through Arbor Point Advisors, LLC, Investacorp Advisory Services, Inc., Ladenburg Thalmann Asset Management, Inc., Securities America Advisors, Inc., SSN Advisory, Inc., and Triad Hybrid Solutions, LLC, registered investment advisers. Advisor Group, Inc. is a holding company. Advisor Group, Inc. is separately owned and other entities and / or marketing names, products or services referenced here are independent of Advisor Group, Inc. 20 E. Thomas Rd., Ste. 2000, Phoenix, AZ, 85012. 866.481.0379

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Spain's government has ordered tough new travel restrictions in Madrid to slow infections at the centre of the country's second wave - but local authorities are resisting the plan.

The new rules would see the city's borders closed to non-essential travel, with parks and playgrounds shut, gatherings limited to six people and bars and restaurants ordered to close at 11pm.

The measures ordered by the Spanish health ministry come as Madrid suffers one of the highest infection rates of any region in Europe, putting pressure on hospitals where more than 40 per cent of Madrid's ICU beds are filled by Covid-19 patients.

But regional leaders are opposing the measures after weeks of wrangling between Spain's left-wing government and Madrid's right-wing authorities.

'You cannot lock down everybody,' Madrid leader Isabel Diaz Ayuso told Spanish radio today, adding: 'I'm sure the Madrid plan is the best: quick tests, quarantines and life goes on.'

Ayuso is preparing to take the Spanish government to court but said today that Madrid is 'not in rebellion' and would obey the rules until they are overturned.

Members of the Spanish Military Emergencies Unit (UME) wearing protective gear leave after disinfecting the Lope de Vega Cultural Center in the Vallecas neighbourhood where rapid antigen test for COVID-19 were conducted to residents of the area, on September 30

Death rate remains low: Spain's coronavirus fatalities are now araound 100 a day - still well below a maximum of 844 on the worst day of the March peak

'The decision is not valid legally,' Madrid health chief Enrique Ruiz Escudero repeatedly told a news conference last night.

Accusing the Spanish government of ignoring signs that the outbreak is stabilising, Escudero insisted that 'the situation is controlled'.

'We have always anticipated the hospital capacity to contain this pandemic, and we've had several days for which the balance between discharges and admissions is favorable,' he said. 'The government is in a hurry to lock Madrid down.'

Spain's health ministry announced last night it was overriding regional authorities and said the new rules would come into effect 48 hours after an official order is published, which has not yet happened.

'Madrid's health is Spain's health. Madrid is special,' Spanish health minister Salvador Illa said as he announced the new regulations.

The national standards have been approved by 13 of Spain's 19 regions and autonomous cities but Madrid's refusal is a setback for PM Pedro Sanchez's coalition, which is pushing for a stricter response in the capital.

Under the new metrics, all large cities are subject to new curbs if they record a two-week infection rate above 500 cases per 100,000 residents, have ICU occupancy rates above 35 per cent, and if more than 10 per cent tests come back positive.

In the Madrid region, the current figures are an infection rate of 735 per 100,000, an ICU occupancy rate of 42 per cent and a positivity rate of 20 per cent.

As well as the city of Madrid, nine surrounding areas with at least 100,000 inhabitants each would currently meet the Spanish government's threshold.

People would be allowed to cross the city boundaries for work, school, doctors' visits or shopping, but not for leisure.

But Madrid's resistance sets the scene for a political battle which could be dragged into the courts.

Regional president Ayuso said today that 'Madrid is not in rebellion, it will comply with all orders but we will go to court', according to RTVE.

The deadlock has exposed some of the pitfalls of the countrys highly decentralized political system, irritating many Spaniards and undermining their trust in politicians' handling of a worrying surge in virus cases more than six months after the pandemic first overwhelmed Spain.

Madrid is leading the resurgence of the virus in Spain and Europe. The region's infection rate is 2.5 times higher than the national average of 294 cases and seven times higher the average rate in Europe, which is 94 per 100,000 residents.

Sanchez's government wants to see tougher action in Madrid that does not only target working-class neighborhoods, as do existing restrictions in the parts of the city with the highest contagion rates.

But Madrid's centre-right government argues that the citywide lockdown would further damage the economy after months of standstill.

In addition to Madrid, officials from three other regions led by conservative and center-right parties and from the separatist-ruled northeastern Catalonia rejected the government's document at a meeting Wednesday.

Members of the Spanish Military Emergencies Unit (UME) wearing protective gear prepare to disinfect the Lope de Vega Cultural Center in the Vallecas neighbourhood

A waiter disinfects a table in downtown Madrid, Spain, Wednesday. Madrid is leading the resurgence of the virus in Spain and Europe

Coronavirus-related hospital admissions have risen in Spain amid the second wave of infections, although not yet to the peak seen in the spring

Regional health chief Alba Verges said that Catalonia had decided to follow its own plan, which she described as more ambitious than the national guidelines designed with Madrid in mind.

'This has turned into a circus. We have said that at this stage there needs to be action with responsibility and that they need to find agreements that don't endanger public health,' Verges said. 'We have been discussing a document that collides with the measures that we are already carrying out.'

Given that 13 regions ended up backing the guidelines, Illa announced at a press conference that the plan would be implemented nationally regardless of opposition.

'When one goes to the doctor, one expects to be told the truth: the situation in Madrid is tough,' Illa said, stressing that four of every 10 infections reported in Spain on Wednesday were in the Spanish capital. 'We are facing very tough weeks,' he added.

'The situation in Madrid is complex and worrying,' Illa told reporters, saying that of 11,016 new cases diagnosed in Spain over the past 24 hours, nearly 44 percent were in the Madrid region.

A shoe shiner brushes a client's shoes in downtown Madrid on Wednesday. Regional health chief Alba Verges said that Catalonia had decided to follow its own plan, which she described as more ambitious than the national guidelines designed with Madrid in mind

'That's why we have agreed to adopt these measures but we're aware that hard weeks lie ahead,' he said after talks with Spain's 17 autonomous regions who are responsible for public healthcare and managing the pandemic.

Confirmed Covid-19 cases have risen steadily nationwide since a state of emergency declared over the pandemic ended in late June.

Sanchez, facing some criticism for hoarding too much power, handed over control of the pandemic to regional governments.

In theory, the move gave regional officials the ability to fine-tune their responses to new outbreaks according to local conditions, but results from the change have varied.

While the Aragon and Galicia regions in the north managed to ease their summer infection curves and the Asturias region has so far avoided major case clusters, Madrid has accounted for one-third of the new cases reported daily in the past few weeks.

As the number of confirmed cases multiplied there, regional officials handed the blame back to the central government, demanding help and national guidelines.

Madrid Emergency Service (SUMMA) health workers conduct rapid antigen tests for COVID-19 in the southern neighbourhood of Vallecas in Madrid on Tuesday

A Madrid Emergency Service (SUMMA) health worker checks the temperature of a man prior conducting a rapid antigen test for COVID-19 in the southern neighbourhood of Vallecas in Madrid, Spain, Tuesday

An elderly woman lines up for a rapid antigen test for COVID-19 in the southern neighbourhood of Vallecas on Tuesday

Much of the conflict has to do with a decades-long political fight for control of the Madrid region, a conservative stronghold that for more than two decades has provided a showcase for the policies of the conservative Popular Party.

The new restrictions include having to justify trips in and out of the cities, capping gatherings at six people, closing playgrounds and limiting customers and opening times at shops and restaurants.

Over 1 million people already live under such measures, and many expressed doubt Wednesday about how effective they are.

'The government should fine those who don't abide by the medical recommendations, like young people,' Carlos Medrano, a taxi driver in central Madrid, said. 'Only when you target people's pockets is when they start complying.'

Fellow taxi driver Gregorio Munoz, agreed that the current measures were insufficient. 'It would be better if we stayed at home and didnt go out, like we did in March,' Munoz said.

As of Wednesday, Spain reported a total of nearly 770,000 confirmed coronavirus cases during the pandemic and a virus death toll of over 31,700, although experts say all numbers understate the true toll of the pandemic due to limited testing and other factors.
Dan Evans was involved in an angry confrontation on Wednesday night during a stormy first round French Open doubles match which saw tempers boil over.

A day which began with Serena Williams calling time on her season and withdrawing from the tournament ended with the 30 year-old Midlander furious at his opponents after winning the match.

Playing alongside partner Hubert Hurkacz against Brazilian Marcelo Demoliner and Dutchman Matwe Middelkoop, the trouble in the late night match flared in the deciding set over a question of whether a ball had hit Evans during a rally.

Dan Evans was involved in an angry confrontation at French Open on Wednesday night

Trouble flared in the deciding set over a question of whether a ball had hit Evans during a rally

Name calling escalated during the changeover, leading Evans to storm towards his opponents

The British star had to be separated from his rivals by French umpire Arnaud Gabas

Name calling escalated during the changeover at 5-2, leading Evans to storm towards his opponents at the net, needing to be separated by French umpire Arnaud Gabas.

After the match, eventually won 7-6 3-6 7-5 by the Polish-British team, the GB singles number one said: 'They accused me of the ball hitting me. I didn't think the ball had hit me. Then he wouldn't trust me on a call.. I would say I am pretty fair.

'They were as good as calling me a cheat which is disgusting and I won't let that go, and that's why I told him. Some of these guys seem to be happy to give it out but don't like it when it comes back their way.'
K eir Starmer has condemned as "inhuman" reports that the Government is considering placing asylum processing centres on disused ferries.

The Labour leader told the Home Office to "get your house in order" as he also responded to reports that the Government is considering processing asylum seekers on the remote UK territory, Ascension Island, in the Atlantic Ocean.

It comes as the Home Office's top civil servant, Matthew Rycroft, said the Cabinet Office has launched an investigation into the leaks on ideas of how to process asylum seekers.

Sir Keir told reporters in Westminster: This isnt creative thinking, this is lurching from one ridiculous proposition to the next  these suggestions are inhuman and the Government shouldnt be pursuing them.

Everybody knows that the biggest problem with asylum seekers claims is that it takes a long time for the Home Office to process them, thats the problem, its been there for years.

A view of Napier Barracks in Folkestone, Kent, where migrants who have crossed the Channel in small boats are being housed / PA

Get your house in order, get that sorted out instead of lurching from one ridiculous proposition to another.

Sir Keir acknowledged that there is of course an issue with people trying to get to the United Kingdom, but people are fleeing often from persecution.

Calling for international co-operation he added: We should be talking to France about how we handle this, not coming up with ever more ridiculous suggestions that have been floating round in the last couple of days.

Mr Rycroft told the Public Accounts Committee on Thursday that "everything is on the table" when it comes to the Government's management of processing asylum seekers.

He repeatedly refused to confirm if Ascension Island was being considered as a "serious suggestion" and refused to answer direct questions on whether disused ferries could be turned into processing centres.

Home Office Permanent Secretary Matthew Rycroft answering questions via videolink to the Public Accounts Select Committee / PA

When committee chairman Meg Hillier asked Mr Rycroft: Was this really a serious suggestion?, he replied: The civil service is here to give ministers impartial, fearless, honest, expert, independent advice and that is what we do. And the system works when we do that in private.

Pressing Mr Rycroft further, Ms Hillier said the idea was in the realms of cloud cuckoo land, asking the permanent secretary once more to confirm if time was spent investigating something where you couldnt even land aircraft.

He replied: What I can confirm is that the civil service has been responding to ministers questions about how other countries deal with what is a global issue  migration.

We have been leaving no stone unturned in doing that. Weve been looking at what a whole host of other countries do in order to bring innovation into our own system. No decisions have been taken.

No final proposals have been put to ministers or to anyone else.

Priti Patel has vowed to stop migrants making the journey across the Channel / PA

This is in the realm of the brainstorming stage of a future policy and, I think as ministers have said in the House, everything is on the table, and so it should be at this stage of the policy-making process.

Labour MP Ms Hillier then asked Mr Rycroft if any further offshore proposals had been discussed, adding: In your professional opinion, Mr Rycroft, is putting people on old ferries offshore an improvement to our asylum accommodation system?

He responded that no decision has been taken, while adding that the department was considering its options and responding to ministers requests to do so.

According to The Times, Number 10 is considering buying retired ferries and converting the vessels into processing centres to house asylum seekers off the UK coast.

A group of people thought to be migrants on the coastline by the White Cliffs of Dover, Kent, after crossing the English Channel by small boat / PA

The newspaper also reported the Home Office discussed moving migrants to decommissioned oil platforms in the North Sea for processing, but the idea was rejected.

In a version of the Australian offshore model, asylum seekers could also be sent to detention centres in Papua New Guinea, Moldova, or Morocco, The Guardian said.

It claimed leaked documents had revealed Downing Street had asked officials to look into the matter, but was met with pushback from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

It comes amid controversy over a proposal discussed in the Home Office that asylum seekers could be processed on British overseas territory Ascension Island.

The idea reportedly being considered within Priti Patels department was dismissed on Wednesday as an unfeasible, logistical nightmare by a member of the Ascension Island Council, Alan Nicholls.

Ms Patel has vowed to stop migrants making the perilous journey across the English Channel in small boats amid record numbers of crossings.

The proposal further reflects the influence of Australia  which has controversially used offshore processing and detention centres for asylum seekers since the 1980s  on the UKs immigration and asylum policy.

Additional reporting by PA Media.
A Belfast man who went to his ex-partner's home with a hammer after threatening to "cave her head in" has been jailed for six months.

The 34-year-old, of Erskine Street, admitted threats to kill, possessing an offensive weapon in public and criminal damage.

Belfast Magistrates' Court heard the offences were committed during contact with the woman on July 31 this year.

In a phone conversation he allegedly stated: "Nobody is going to help you this time, you're going to die this time."

The communication then switched to a FaceTime video call, where the victim saw Clarke holding a hammer.

According to the prosecution he informed her that "he was going to cave her head in with it".

He was said to have demonstrated this by banging on a kitchen wall.

Later that night the woman heard a loud smash downstairs at her home in the Mersey Street area.

Clarke allegedly shouted at her: "I told you I would come."

The woman, who was present with her two young daughters, discovered a door window had been smashed.

Police arrived at the property and seized a hammer. Clarke had left by that stage but was arrested later.

During interviews he made full admissions but claimed he could only remember parts of the phone conversation.

Defence solicitor Paul Dougan confirmed his client "unequivocally accepted his culpability" and realised a custodial sentence was inevitable.

"He is a person who has battled with his own demons in terms of alcohol and drug addiction," Mr Dougan said.

"He readily concedes that he was high on a cocktail of cocaine and alcohol on July 31, which led to this bout of offending."

Clarke also pleaded guilty to damaging an electronic tag he was wearing at the time.

District Judge Peter Magill told him the offences were unacceptable, and aggravated by the fact he was on bail for other matters at the time.

"The courts will come down heavily on instances of domestic abuse," Mr Magill stressed.

Imposing a six-month prison sentence, the judge added: "There were very serious matters, particularly when you made the most graphic threats to kill the mother of your children and then you went to her house and started to break into it with a hammer."
NEW YORK  The beleaguered Diocese of Rockville Centre, facing dozens of sex abuse lawsuits, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy Thursday.

The Long Island Catholic diocese  one of the largest in the country  said the bankruptcy filing was necessary to move forward while managing litigation costs, settlements with sexual abuse survivors and disputes with its insurers.

The cases against them have been mounting ever since the Child Victims Act passed last year opened the legal window for victims to sue the Catholic Church and other institutions.

We believe that this process offers the only way to ensure a fair and equitable outcome for everyone involved, including abuse survivors whose compensation settlements will be resolved by the courts, said Bishop John Barres, head of the diocese. This decision was not made lightly.

Barres said the dioceses insurers failed to honor their contractual obligations as the lawsuits increased, with close to 100 filed against Rockville Centre. Three other New York state dioceses already filed for Chapter 11, citing similar issues: Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse.

We carefully and prayerfully considered other alternatives, but Chapter 11 was the only way to provide fair settlements to survivors while continuing to be of service to the 1.4 million Catholics  in the Diocese of Rockville Centre, the bishop said.

He also noted the steep drop in Sunday collection money due to the COVID-19 crisis, with churches shuttered for an extended period. The diocese typically generates roughly 40% of its annual revenue from parishioners donations.

Attorney Jeff Anderson, whose firm represents dozens of sexual abuse accusers, quickly denounced the filing.

We see the dioceses decision to declare bankruptcy as strategic, cowardly and wholly self-serving, said Anderson. At the heart of these cases, we find a willful deceit on the dioceses part  persistent attempts to evade accountability and a concerted effort to conceal information.

Story continues

Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed the CVA into law in February 2019, and recently extended the period for victims to file legal actions through Aug. 14, 2021.



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BAGHDAD: At least six missiles targeting Irbil international airport in northern Iraq were intercepted Wednesday evening, a statement from the Kurdish Interior Ministry said, as diplomatic tensions between Washington and Baghdad mounted over a spate of rocket attacks targeting the U.S. presence.

The U.S.-led coalition maintains a troop presence on a base inside the airport. The recent attacks have, until now, exclusively targeted the heavily fortified Green Zone, the seat of the Baghdad government, and the capitals airport. Roadside bombs have also routinely targeted convoys carrying materials for the U.S.-led coalition forces.

According to the statement, the missiles were intercepted at 8:30 p.m. and did not cause any major damage. Two Kurdish officials said one of the rockets hit the headquarters of an Iranian-Kurdish opposition party banned in Iran. The officials requested anonymity in line with regulations.

The statement said the rockets were fired from a pickup truck near Bartella, south of Irbil in Nineveh province, which are areas under the purview of Brigade 30 of the Popular Mobilization Forces. The brigade is composed of ethnic Shabak militiamen.

Iraqs military said the perpetrators were terrorist groups, and that one rocket had landed close to Hasansham camp for the internally displaced.

The frequency of the attacks led to U.S. threats last week to close its Baghdad embassy unless decisive action was taken to reign in Shiite militias suspected of launching the attacks. Iraqs foreign minister on Wednesday said the government was taking measures to consolidate security in the Green Zone and airport.

The attack in Irbil, a rare target for rockets, is considered a serious escalation by Iraqi officials.

Kurdish officials, and former Finance Minister Hoshiyar Zebari, said the incident was yet another escalation to undermine security in the country by the same groups who are attacking the U.S. embassy in Baghdad and its convoys. Action is needed to stop it.

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Six kindergartens in Chisinau to be refurbished for greater energy efficiency

Investment part of EBRD, EIB and E5P 25 million programme for public buildings

Moldovan capital takes steps to improve its environment under EBRD Green Cities initiative

Six kindergartens in Moldovas capital Chisinau will be refurbished by implementing energy efficient and renewable energy measures co-funded by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the Eastern Europe Energy Efficiency and Environment Partnership (E5P) fund and the European Investment Bank (EIB). The Municipality of Chisinau signed the first energy performance contract for this investment today.

The six kindergartens are the first of tens of public buildings  including hospitals and schools  that will be refurbished to improve their energy efficiency. The effort is supported by a 25 million financing package, in which the EBRDs loan of 10 million is complemented by a 5 million grant from the E5P and a 10 million loan from the EIB.

In Moldova, the E5P is funded by the European Union, Sweden, Moldova, Germany, Denmark, Norway, Estonia, Poland, Romania, the Czech Republic, theSlovak Republic and Lithuania.

The E5P grants help Moldova improve energy efficiency, contributing to energy security and economic competitiveness, while having a positive impact on the environment.

The children and staff at the Chisinau kindergartens will benefit from improved facilities, such as better insulated walls, roofs and ceilings, new windows and doors, reinforced stairs, repaired drainage and ventilation systems.

Ion Ceban, Mayor of the city of Chisinau, said: This is a long-awaited project, but also a special one given that more than 2,000 children will be the direct beneficiaries. This is the first step and we hope to achieve more under the project. We will continue to put all our efforts and dedication into progressing new energy efficient projects for Chisinau.

Angela Sax, Head of the EBRDs Moldova office, said: The new energy efficiency measures will help make kindergartens more comfortable and safe for children and their educators. The investments will also save the city money in energy bills. Making kids aware of benefits of saving energy will help them become future leaders of green energy transition.

Gintautas Baranauskas, Deputy Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Moldova, added: The Chisinau Energy Efficiency Project is particularly relevant for the EU because energy efficiency is pivotal for a greener growth model and, together with the energy transition, a central goal for the EUs cooperation with eastern partners.

With more than 18 million pledged, the EU is largest contributor to the E5P Fund in Moldova.

Investing in greater energy efficiency of buildings is part of Chisinaus commitment to improving its urban environment. The Moldovan capital has signed up to EBRD Green Cities, the Banks flagship urban sustainability programme. The city has developed and approved a Green City Action Plan which aims to address the most pressing environmental challenges, such as improving air quality, water quality, land use, biodiversity, and climate mitigation and adaptation. The development of the plan was funded by the government of Austria.

The EBRD is a leading institutional investor in Moldova. To date, the Bank has invested 1.4 billion in the country in over 136 projects, supporting the banking sector, sustainable infrastructure, trade and agriculture.
Deciding to put concrete action toward racial justice following recent social unrest, the Illinois Supreme Court has appointed a its first-ever diversity officer.

Vernadean Deanie Brown was named the courts chief diversity and inclusion officer and will work with leaders throughout the justice system toward the courts strategic goals related to diversity, equity and inclusion, according to a written statement from Marcia Meis, the director of the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts.

Brown, a graduate of the University of Illinois College of Law who begins the job on Nov. 2, will have an office in Springfield, but she will travel to Chicago and other parts of the state as needed to meet with judges, judicial

branch employees and other court stakeholders.

Her hiring, announced Tuesday, was made to foster accessible, fair and equitable administration of justice, according to the statement.

Brown, a lawyer with extensive diversity and inclusion experience and expertise, has served as associate chancellor for access and equal opportunity at the University of Illinois Springfield since 2008. She also served as a member of the Chancellors Administrative Council and University of Illinois System executive committees.

The decision to hire Brown was sparked, in part, when the court in June issued an acknowledgment of the organized protests and calls to action being made throughout the United States, saying racism undermines democracy and the fair and equitable administration of justice.

The court saw an opportunity to speak to the history of the disproportionate impact the application of certain laws, rules, policies and practices have had on the African American population, the Latinx community, and other people of color in Illinois and nationally, the statement said.

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An administrative law judge in California has dismissed liens valued at $18 million filed by convicted medical provider Michael E. Barri, bringing to a close one of the earliest cases aimed at combatting fraud in Californias workers compensation system., the states Division of Workers Compensation announced.

DWC suspended Barri from participating in Californias workers comp system after he pled guilty in 2016 to federal conspiracy charges and admitted receiving $206,506 in illegal kickbacks for referring dozens of patients for spinal surgeries and other medical services to Pacific Hospital of Long Beach and related entities.

The former owner of the hospital was sentenced to 63 months in prison in 2018.

The San Clemente chiropractor challenged his suspension in court and pursued collection of $18.1 million in liens he had filed in 944 individual workers comp cases through the entities he controlled.

An appeals court denied Barris writ in 2018 and upheld the anti-fraud legislation that led to his suspension, sending the matter of the liens back to the Workers Compensation Appeals Board.

Administrative Law Judge Alan Skelly held several hearings in which the lien claimants, insurance carriers and members of the Department of Industrial Relations Anti-Fraud Unit were represented by counsel. Barri contested discovery related to his 944 liens, then filed a Notice of Withdrawal with Prejudice of liens of Tristar Medical Group, Jojaso Management, Inc., Michael E. Barri Chiropractic Corporation and Michael E. Barri, D.C. Judge Skelly accepted the notice and issued the order dismissing the liens.

Barri was one of many chiropractors, physicians and others who received lucrative kickbacks for each lumbar surgery and cervical fusion surgery referred to Pacific Hospital. During the last eight years of the scheme, the hospital submitted more than $580 million in fraudulent bills. Because of his referrals, Pacific Hospital billed insurance carriers approximately $3.9 million for spinal surgeries and other medical services.

Workers compensation reforms that went into effect in January 2017 required DWC to suspend certain medical providers from participating in the workers comp system, including those who are convicted of a felony or misdemeanor involving fraud or abuse of any patient, the Medi-Cal or Medicare programs, or the workers compensation system itself.

Related:

Topics California Legislation Workers' Compensation Fraud Medical Professional Liability
The United States has lifted its Level 4 warning not to travel outside the country for the first time since March. The number of coronavirus cases in some countries has fallen significantly and American citizens are no longer being urged to avoid traveling to many of them.

Although the travel advisory is not legally binding, this shift in stance from the US State Department could come as a boon for the travel industry as Americans may once again be more willing to take a trip outside the country.

Is travel back to normal?

Caution is still advised for traveling to most destinations, with some countries, such as India still having a Level 4 warning due to the high number of cases. Others, such as China, have been reduced to a Level 3 (reconsider traveling), while certain countries are now down to Level 2 or even Level 1.

However, the fact that US citizens can leave America does not necessarily mean that they can enter other sovereign states, with many having COVID-19 travel restrictions in place.

Likewise, the US has its own travel restrictions for foreign nationals, which mean that many non-American travelers cannot enter, regardless of whether they hold a US visa or EVUS enrollment.

What are the State Department travel advisory levels?

There are 4 different travel advisory levels that the US State Department can assign to a country or region. Each level indicates the perceived risk for American nationals in that destination and advises them on whether or not they should make the journey.

The 4 levels are:

- Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions (blue)

- Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution (yellow)

- Level 3: Reconsider Travel (orange)

- Level 4: Do Not Travel (red)

Level 4 is the highest level, which indicates that during an emergency, the US government may not be able to provide assistance to its citizens. Between March and August 2020, all countries were assigned a Level 4 warning due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Besides COVID-19, factors that can result in a higher advisory level include crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and natural disasters.

Certain countries have different warning levels assigned to specific regions where there is a greater risk of danger for travelers.

How COVID-19 has affected travel advisories

The US State Department had previously issued travel advice for each country around the world, with different advisory levels ranging from 1 to 4. The level assigned depended on the risk factors involved in visiting each sovereign state or territory.

On March 19, due to the sharp rise in the number of COVID-19 cases on a global scale, the US government decided to issue Level 4 travel warnings for every country in the world. Americans were advised not to travel anywhere outside the US.

US citizens abroad were urged to return to the United States immediately if commercial flights were available unless they were willing to stay indefinitely in another country.

The US State Department also undertook a large-scale repatriation operation to bring citizens home from other countries where international travel options had been halted. Over 101,000 American nationals were returned to the States from 136 different countries and territories from January 27 to June 10, 2020. More than 1,100 flights had to be arranged to achieve this.

After several months, the blanket Level 4 warning for the whole world has now been reversed. The State Department has reverted to issuing warning levels and travel advisories on a country-by-country basis, taking into account other factors in addition to coronavirus.

Which countries can Americans travel to?

US citizens still do not have a wealth of options when it comes to countries they can visit. Although the blanket Level 4 travel advisory has been lifted for the entire world, a number of countries, including the Bahamas, India, Namibia, Peru, and Russia are still at Level 4.

Many others are currently at Level 3-reconsider travel. These include popular destinations such as Barbados, Mexico, Morocco, and the Philippines.

However, just because the US State Department says that it is safe for Americans to visit a country does not mean that the country itself will let US citizens in. Each sovereign state has the right to introduce its own COVID-19 travel regulations.

For example, Thailand is currently given a Level 2 advisory, but Americans (and most other travelers for that matter) are currently prohibited from entering.

A number of Caribbean countries and territories have opened their borders to American visitors, including Barbados, Jamaica, St. Lucia, and Turks and Caicos. Various other countries around the world are also open to US passport holders.

However, some of these carry high warning levels from the State Department, so the choice of whether to run the risk lies with each individual traveler.

@ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
The World Socialist Web Site is publishing messages of support for Dr. Joseph Scalice from throughout the world. Scalice has come under attack from the Philippine Stalinists for his powerful lecture, First as Tragedy, Second as Farce: Marcos, Duterte and the Communist Parties of the Philippines, which examined the support given by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), to authoritarian Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte in 2016.

Acutely sensitive to the criticism of the CPP, its founder Jose Maria Sison, without a shred of evidence, has denounced Dr. Scalice as a paid CIA agent and an informer for Duterte. Scalice, through the establishment of the historical record about the betrayals of the CPP, has done a service to the working class in the Philippines and internationally.

We urge our readers to come to the defence of Dr. Scalice, including by sending statements of support to the WSWS opposing the slanderous attack on him by the CPP and sharing his lecture widely.

Zhea, university instructor, Philippines:

Joma Sisons efforts to malign Dr. Joseph Scalice by labeling him a CIA agent and informer for Dutertes death squad is just a futile attempt to remain relevant. Sison should have known better than resorting to slanderous attacks that do not erase the fact that the CPP-NPA-NDF indeed endorsed Duterte for presidency in 2016. In fact, a quick online search about it would yield numerous reports and photos showing how they were rejoicing that Duterte won. Sison and his supporters simply cannot accept that they openly supported an authoritarian president who is now very vocal in ending the communist movement in the Philippines.

The lecture of Dr. Scalice First as Tragedy, Second as Farce: Marcos, Duterte, and the Communist Parties of the Philippines delivered on August 26 was objective and informative. Sisons hostile reaction towards it only tells us that there is a part of history that they want to be covered up and forgotten. They quickly brand anyone who talks against the CPP-NPA-NDF a fascist and those who call out their communist activities a red-tagger. And this is ironic. Because if they try so hard to silence and intimidate opposing views, they are not at all different from the fascists and red-taggers they so loathe. Their ideologies are only good on paper and what they are practicing is farcical.

With this, we not only support Dr. Scalice and his scholarship but we also make it clear that we will not be silenced by any individual or group who dares to terrorize our democracy by turning us away from history.

Andrew, undergraduate political science student, Philippines:

Having actually read some of Dr. Scalices various works, from revisiting the Pasyon and some articles about Rizal, Dr. Scalice has managed to give valuable insight on Philippine history. Having to hear that he has been attacked by the founder of CPP on Facebook, its actually quite sad to see that, without publishing any concrete evidence of his own, Jose Maria Sison has shrunk to the level of Facebook trolls. If Sison really wants to reject Scalices lecture on the CPP, he really should look back on his actions in 2016 and think hard on why he supported Duterte in the first place. If he wants to validate his rejections, he should publish his own studies about it. The old Jose Maria Sison is evidently gone now, and he is currently a shell of his former past. His actions are unfortunately damaging to the real supporters and members of the Leftist and socialist movement in the Philippines that know the real situation of the country. Activists and peasant leaders are being killed by the Duterte Administration and instead of attacking academics who are trying to have an objective perception of CPP history, Sison should focus more on how to undo his mistakes in 2016.

George, Australian television producer:

Im writing to thank Dr. Joseph Scalice for his meticulous and painstaking researchten years workexposing the treacherous history of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and to defend him from the vicious attacks of Joma Sison, founder of the CPP.

In the current revolutionary period, it could not be more vital to clarify the difference between Trotskyism, that is genuine revolutionary socialism, and the anti-working class politics of Stalinism.

Dr. Scalices analysis that the CPPs support for the fascistic Rodrigo Duterte (and before that for Marcos, Aquino etc) flows from the Stalinist-Maoist doctrine of a two-stage revolution is an important and correct one.

Sison slanders and threatens Dr Scalice because he has no alternative.

Campbell, secondary school teacher, Australia:

As a current, practising educator, I write in support of Dr. Joseph Scalice and his thorough analysis of the role played by the Stalinist Communist Party of the Philippines, and in opposition to the threats and lies he has received from the CPP and its leader, Jose Maria Sison.

This is a contemporary example of the treacherous and rotten role that Stalinism has played in political life over the course of nearly a century. It provides us all with a clear focus on the role that Stalinism attempts to play in removing the working class from taking independent actions at resolving the crisis of capitalism around the globe.

Historical and political truths are abandoned by the CPP, for open lies, falsifications and distortions.

As Leon Trotsky stated: The lie serves, therefore, as the fundamental ideological cement of the bureaucracy. Its what holds the whole thing together. The more irreconcilable becomes the contradiction between the bureaucracy and the people, all the ruder becomes the lie, all the more brazenly is it converted into criminal falsification and judicial frame-up.

Dr. Scalices study has simply addressed these issues as they should. Exposing the CPP for their political degeneracy is an important step moving forward in how the global working class must commence in resolving the issues of its dominance by capital.

His article has exposed the Stalinists lies of supporting the interests of the working class, with cosy deals being made with the nationalist bourgeoisie, that serve to only enrich the CPP bureaucracy. This rottenness is further exposed with the open contempt it has historically shown to its most advanced cadre, who are treated as dangerous hence expendable tools to the movement.

The degenerative depths that these craven political cowards use to attack the truth will need to be learned as we move forward. With the increased rapidity of social dislocation occurring around the globe, and the increasing attacks on working class freedoms, these Stalinists have shown they will stop at nothing to maintain the current state of affairs.

I commend Dr. Scalice for producing a study of great importance, and openly call for his defence by the international working class, including educators, for highlighting this contemptible role played by the Sison and the CPP.
Trionfo assoluto per "L'agnello" di Mario Piredda al festival del cinema italiano di Annecy con i riconoscimenti come migliore film, premio del pubblico e premio giuria giovani.

Il regista sassarese e stato tra i protagonisti dell'appuntamento internazionale dedicato alla produzione cinematografica che si e svolta sia nelle sale del capoluogo dell'Alta Savoia sia online in tutta la Francia e in Svizzera.

Il programma, spiega Bruno Culeddu, "e stato articolato in 7 Sezioni. I film che arriveranno nelle sale francesi nei prossimi mesi sono stati inseriti nella 'Prima' sezione; fra questi spiccano 'Notturno' di Gianfranco Rosi, 'Tolo Tolo' di Checco Zalone, 'Hammamet' di Gianni Amelio e 'Spaccapietre' dei fratelli De Serio".

Mentre nella sezione "Cconcorso", che ha visto prevalere "Lagnello", figuravano otto titoli. Due appena premiati all'ultima Mostra di Venezia, 'Padrenostro' di Claudio Noce e 'I predatori' di Pietro Castellitto, e opere spesso molto applaudite nei festival di tutto il mondo ma meno conosciute per il pubblico italiano come 'Faith' di Valentina Pedicini, 'Palazzo di giustizia' di Chiara Bellosi, 'Rosa Pietra Stella' di Marcello Sannino, 'Simple Women' di Chiara Malta e 'Punta Sacra' di Francesca Mazzoleni. Quest'ultima opera si e aggiudicata il premio Migliore Regia e Art Cinema CICAE (Confederation internationale des cinemas d'art et d'essai).

"Significativa - dice ancora Culeddu - la motivazione che ha accompagnato il premio che la Giuria Ufficiale, composta dalla giornalista Yael Hirsch e dai registi Beniamino Barrese e Gianluca e Massimiliano De Serio, ha conferito allopera prima di Piredda: 'Lagnello ci regala un viaggio nel cuore della Sardegna infuocata e selvaggia come i capelli rossi della brillante attrice, la radiosa Nora Stassi. Per noi e anche il film di questo concorso 2020 che e riuscito a coniugare al meglio tutti gli elementi che ci trasportano dallaltra parte dello schermo: personaggi forti e ben incarnati, una trama avvincente che si dispiega in modo efficace, una fotografia che serve allo scopo di creare unemozione unica, portando lo spettatore a seguire passo dopo passo la lotta di Anita'".

La Giuria Giovani, composta da cinque studenti delle scuole superiori, ha accompagnato il proprio premio con queste parole: "Questo film indipendente mostra una performance attoriale incredibile e delle immagini magnifiche della Sardegna, dove il film e stato girato. Ci e piaciuta molto la bella amicizia tra Anita e suo padre e la forza dei due personaggi. E un film molto divertente da guardare, con la figura centrale dellagnello che lascia senza dubbio qualcosa da interpretare allo spettatore. Personalmente pensiamo che lagnellino rappresenti la speranza, una caratteristica che Anita ha dallinizio alla fine".

"L'agnello" e interpretato da Nora Stassi con Luciano Curreli, Piero Marcialis e Michele "dr. drer" Atzori. E una produzione Articolture, Mat Productions e Rai Cinema, con il contributo della Regione Autonoma della Sardegna e il supporto di Fondazione Sardegna Film Commission (Fondo Ospitalita e Fondo Filming Cagliari), Comune di Cagliari, Societa Umanitaria  Cineteca sarda. La distribuzione e curata da Articolture in collaborazione con Modis - Moderno Distribuzione.

(Unioneonline/s.s.)

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At work, Tammy Leask has been calling and emailing provincial income-assistance employees, landlords and tenant advocates, doing whatever she can to find or keep safe housing for the 36 women in her support program.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 30/9/2020 (479 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

At work, Tammy Leask has been calling and emailing provincial income-assistance employees, landlords and tenant advocates, doing whatever she can to find or keep safe housing for the 36 women in her support program.

The full-time Housing First worker at West Central Women's Resource Centre in Winnipeg has been busy in the lead up to Oct. 1, when COVID-19 pandemic-related protections for renters will no longer be in effect.

For the past six months, Manitoba landlords were not allowed to collect rent increases or late fees, nor were they permitted to evict anyone for non-payment of rent.

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Tammy Leask is a full-time Housing First worker at West Central Women's Resource Centre in Winnipeg.

Those emergency orders are ending, leaving Leask scrambling to help vulnerable women who are behind on rent and worry they'll be evicted. She said she hears regularly from those who are facing homelessness if they can't make rent, but are afraid of going to a shelter. One woman told Leask she hid in a bush to sleep at night because she had nowhere else to go.

"I think about that, and think about my struggle, too, because I feel for these women. I know exactly what can happen," she said Wednesday.

After work, Leask has been trying to stretch her own household budget, and wonders how she'll be able to afford the $300/month rent increase set to come into effect in November for her three-bedroom Manitoba Housing apartment. It'll cut into her grocery budget, she said.

"I have two little ones at home that I still have to feed and clothe and buy school lunches for, but I need a roof over our heads. So I have to pay the rent and let some things go," Leask said. "I have no choice."

"I think about that, and think about my struggle, too, because I feel for these women. I know exactly what can happen."  Tammy Leask

Dozens of community groups across Manitoba signed a letter addressed to Families Minister Heather Stefanson last week, asking the province to extend its moratorium on evictions and rent increases until a safety plan is in place for renters during the ongoing COVID-19 state of emergency. They called on the government to start a working group of advocates, landlords and government officials  something the province hasn't agreed to.

Stefanson's office did not respond to questions Wednesday from the Free Press, instead deferring to other government departments. Her office said the minister replied to housing advocates about affordable housing and shelter supports.

Dawn Sands, executive director of the North End Community Renewal Corporation, said the organization is anticipating a "huge push as soon as that moratorium is lifted," but doesn't yet know how many people could be facing eviction because of unpaid rent.

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Leask is scrambling to help vulnerable women who are behind on rent and worrying they'll be evicted.

The Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives has estimated the number of Manitobans who couldn't pay all or some of their rent during the pandemic may be 5,000 to 7,000.

"The reason why we're calling for a working group is because we understand that landlords have to be part of the solution. There have to be supports in place for tenants and for landlords. We know there are some landlords out there that are working with their tenants on repayment plans and doing that just by their own decision, but we would like to see a formal process put in place by this government until we can get to a place where it's safe to lift all of the mortatoriums," Sands said.

In a statement, a spokesperson for Manitoba's Residential Tenancies Branch confirmed hearings will resume Thursday, including enforcement of orders related to non-payment of rent.

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"There are still available spots for hearings in the first week, so the RTB is not currently seeing a significant demand. This appears to be consistent with Saskatchewans experience, as they began hearings in early August," the statement said.

This decision to lift the eviction ban is one example of many policies that they've been implementing over the last couple years that we think are really going to leave a legacy of increased homelessness and poverty across the province."  Kirsten Bernas, chairwoman of the Winnipegbased Right to Housing Coalition

Kirsten Bernas, chairwoman of the Winnipeg-based Right to Housing Coalition  who also works with Leask  said she understands landlords are struggling, too, and that's why the community groups are asking for landlords to be involved in a provincial plan.

"We're super concerned about the overall direction that the provincial government is taking around housing for low-income people in Manitoba. This decision to lift the eviction ban is one example of many policies that they've been implementing over the last couple years that we think are really going to leave a legacy of increased homelessness and poverty across the province," Bernas said.

katie.may@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @thatkatiemay
A 37-year-old labourer was allegedly electrocuted in Dehradun on Thursday evening while urinating near an electric pole, police said.

This is the second case of electrocution in the state in a week.

Amarjeet Rawat, in-charge Raipur police said the deceased identified as Rajveer Singh, was a labourer.

Around 6 pm, we got information that one labourer had died due to electrocution. We immediately rushed there and came to know that he had gone to urinate near an electric where he got electrocuted and died on the spot, he said.

Rawat said the deceased hailed from Moradabad in Uttara Pradesh and used to work in Dehradun as a labourer. We have sent the body to the mortuary. Post mortem of the body will be conducted on Friday, he said.

Rajneesh Aggarwal, chief engineer Garhwal zone of Uttarakhand Power Corporation Ltd (UPCL) said he has directed superintending engineer (SE) of the area concerned to submit a report to him by Friday.

The SE has himself gone to the spot and by morning he will apprise me regarding what actually happened there and what led to the electrocution of the labourer. Based on his report, further action will be taken in the matter

On September 25, a man was electrocuted when a high-tension wire fell on him in Haldwani area of Nainital district.

On September 27, taking cognisance of the incident, chief minister Trivendra Singh Rawat ordered an inquiry into the matter.

Following the inquiry, the state government on September 30 issued orders for suspension of five officials of UPCL for dereliction of their duties.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Neeraj Santoshi He is principal correspondent based at Bhopal. He covers environment and wildlife, state administration, BJP and other saffron organisations. He has special interest in social issues based stories. ...view detail
Women are found to partake more in 'risky drinking' as the age, a study reveals.

Researchers found that women in their 50s and 60s are consuming more alcohol than what is deemed safe for their age.

Their report, published in the journal of Sociology of Health & Illness, found that the participants were more likely than women in their 20s and 30s to drinking at levels exceeding low-risk drinking guidelines.

The subjects said they were aware of the health risks that come with drinking excessively, but were not concerned about overdoing it as long as they stayed in control and did not embarrass themselves in public.

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A study of women ages 50 to 69 found levels of heavy drinking higher than among younger women. 'When you get to our age, you should be able to do pretty much what you want if it doesn't hurt other people and it's not too detrimental to you,' one 57-year-old said

Researchers at Edith Cowan University investigated alcohol use among 49 women in Denmark and Australia between the ages of 50 and 69.

According to Australian health officials, more than two standard alcoholic drinks every day is considered 'risky' drinking.

Denmark's Board of Health says women shouldn't have more than seven drinks per week.

Exceeding the two-drink recommendation considerably increases the long-term risk of disease and premature death, but most study participants were more concerned with behaving respectably while drinking.

Some felt healthy activities, like exercise, 'neutralized' health risks.

'Respondents from both countries indicated that alcohol use among women their age was normal and acceptable,' said lead author Julie Dare, a professor at ECU's School of Medical and Health Sciences in Perth.

'However, the importance of 'staying in control' while drinking emerged as an important qualifier to the social acceptability of drinking.'

The percentage of Danish women age 55 to 64 who drink more than seven drinks a week is higher (24.7 percent) than that of women 25 to 34 (16.6 percent); 35 to 44 (7.8 percent); and 45 to 54 (18.8 percent). According to Denmark's Board of Health, more than one drinks every day is considered unhealthy

In recent years, shows like Cougar Town, Grace and Frankie and the Real Housewives franchise have celebrated alcohol consumption by middle-aged and senior women.

'It has become part of the norm,' said one 59-year-old study participant. 'It is something we do with our acquaintances, friends and families. That's just something we do'

While Australia puts the cap on low-risk drinking at two glasses, Denmark suggest no more than one drink a day for women.

In Denmark, the percentage of women age 55 to 64 drinking more than seven drinks a week was higher (24.7 percent) than that of women 25 to 34 (16.6 percent), 35 to 44 (7.8 percent) and 45 to 54 (18.8 percent).

About a third of the Danish women drank alcohol three to four days a week, as did a quarter of Australian participants.

While none of the Danish women drank daily, nearly 30 percent of the Australian women did.

'When you get to our age, you should be able to do pretty much what you want if it doesn't hurt other people and it's not too detrimental to you,' one 57-year-old said.

A 69-year-old participant said her peers saw their drinking as fine, 'as long as they don't make a fool of themselves.'

'They don't want to go falling down and showing their knickers,' she said.

An NHS survey in the UK generated similar results, with high-risk drinking most common among women ages 55 to 64.

Only 44 percent of British women under 35 reported drinking at least weekly, according to the alcohol-education group Drinkaware, compared with 52 percent of those 35 to 54 and 58 percent of people over 55.

Attitudes about alcohol were similar between Danish and Australian women except when it came to drinking to cope with stress.

Danish participants 'believed that you shouldn't use alcohol as a crutch to cope,' Dare said.

But the Australian women felt it was acceptable to drink if they were distressed.

'They were quite open about this, saying 'I just had a bad day, I needed to have a drink',' Dare said.

While Australian women aged 1824 remain most likely to binge drink - defined as four or more drinks in a few hours - the percentage has steadily decreased since 2010.

Conversely, the percentage of female binge-drinkers over 60 years has increased since 2010.

Some of all that tippling may be the result of peer pressure: A recent Drinkaware survey found that one in five people over age 55 felt pressured into drinking more than they otherwise would have.

'Whether it's topping up someone's glass without asking, encouraging a group to buy in rounds or incorporating drinks into social rituals, peer pressure comes in many guises,' said researcher Emma Catteral.

'Our study shows that being older doesn't make us immune to the peer pressure to drink. In fact, it suggests we actually just don't recognize pressurizing behaviors.'

But even during lockdowns, when socializing was presumably curbed, heavy drinking rose sharply, especially among women.

Researchers from the RAND Corporation found that, in late May, binge drinking in the US soared more than 40 percent among females over the same period last year.

According to Nielsen, alcohol sales rose 54 percent at the end of March, when lockdowns began in most states, and online sales rocketed up 262 percent.

'It's no surprise people are drinking more during the pandemic,' said therapist Prairie Conlon. 'Many people use alcohol as a way to self-soothe anxiety or depression, two mental health conditions I've seen more of during COVID-19.'
Hate Mail Flooded In After Golfer's Greatest Moment

She Died on African

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Trump responded, "We've done a great job. We're weeks away from a vaccine." The president accused Biden of calling Trump xenophobic for placing initial restrictions on travel from China, where the virus originated. Trump said if he had not acted, 2 million would have died in the U.S.

Early on, the two candidates, both in their 70s, clashed sharply over how to control the unchecked pandemic in the U.S. "The president has no plan," Biden claimed. "He knew it was deadly and didn't tell you about it." Biden, alluding to Trump's frequent golf outings, said the president "should get out of the sand trap" and stop the advance of the pandemic. He referenced Trump's recent remark that the death toll in the U.S. "is what it is," with Biden adding that was because, "You are what you are."

Trump, seeking a second four-year term after his upset 2016 victory over Democrat Hillary Clinton, retorted to Biden, "I've done more things in 47 months [as president] than you've done in 47 years" as a U.S. senator and vice president under former President Barack Obama. Trump argued that if Biden takes over as president next January, "you will have a depression like no one has ever seen" because of the Democrat's plan to raise taxes on corporate earnings from 21 percent to 28 percent and on individuals who make more than $400,000 a year.

Mostly they insulted each other with cutting barbs, name-calling and personal attacks. "He's the worst president America has ever had," Biden contended as he and Trump stood at podiums on a debate stage at a university in the Midwestern city of Cleveland, Ohio. Several times, Biden called Trump "a clown."

Trump disputed a New York Times report this week that he only paid $750 in federal income taxes in both 2016, when he first ran for the presidency, and in 2017, his first year in office. Trump said he paid "millions of dollars," but Biden claimed Trump "pays less tax than the average schoolteacher."

They argued over the world-leading coronavirus death toll of 205,000 in the U.S., the integrity and honesty of the Nov. 3 vote, Trump's nomination of conservative jurist Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court, fractured racial relations in the U.S., environmental policies and more.

Republican U.S. President Donald Trump and his Democratic challenger, former Vice President Joe Biden, clashed in a contentious, chaotic presidential election debate Tuesday night, trying for 90 minutes to convince American voters that the other one was unfit to lead the United States for the next four years.

The debate came five weeks ahead of the election. It was the first of three times the two candidates will meet face to face to debate during the next month. Vice President Mike Pence and Biden's running mate, Sen. Kamala Harris, will have their only debate Oct. 7. At Tuesday's encounter, Trump and Biden frequently interrupted each other. The debate moderator, Fox News journalist Chris Wallace, more than an hour into the face-off rebuked Trump for not following the debate rules to allow each candidate to finish his answers unimpeded.

One of the most personal attacks occurred as Biden recounted a recent Atlantic magazine article alleging that Trump, on a trip to Paris in 2018 for the centenary of the end of World War I, described U.S. war dead as "suckers" and "losers," a claim the president has denied. Biden said that his late son, Beau Biden, who served in the armed services before dying of cancer in 2015, was not a loser or sucker. "You're not going to talk about my son Beau that way," Biden emotionally told Trump.

Trump said he didn't know Beau Biden but did know Biden's son Hunter, whom he has claimed benefited financially with a lucrative position on the board of Burisma, a Ukrainian natural gas company, at the same time Biden was vice president and overseeing U.S. policy related to Ukraine.

 Racial Rensions in the U.S.

On fractured racial relations in the U.S., Biden accused Trump of "using everything as a dog whistle to generate racial tension," recalling how Trump said there were "fine people" on both sides after torch-carrying white nationalists marched in Charlottesville, Virginia, in 2017.

Trump rejected Wallace's overture to condemn white nationalists, instead saying he is "doing better than any Republican" ever in political support from Black voters. The president attacked Biden for writing anti-crime legislation in the 1990s when he was a senator, saying that he referred to Black criminal suspects as "super predators."

Trump assailed "radical left Democrats" whose mayors oversee some of the country's biggest cities. A number of violent protests erupted in those cities in recent months in demonstrations against police abuse of minorities in the aftermath of the May death of a Black man, George Floyd, while in police custody in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The president demanded that Biden commit to "law and order" in American cities. "He doesn't want to say, 'law and order,'" Trump contended.

Biden said he advocates "law and order with justice." The Democratic candidate said he would rejoin the international Paris climate change accord that Trump withdrew the U.S. from. Trump, asked by Wallace whether he accepts that climate change is caused by the actions of people, replied, "To an extent, yes." But Trump contended that on-going raging wildfires in the Western U.S. could mostly be curbed by "good forest management."

Biden said that Trump's nomination of Barrett to the Supreme Court threatened the national health care law approved during his vice presidency under Obama and imperiled the landmark 1973 court decision legalizing abortion rights in the U.S. Trump said, "I think she's going to be fantastic. We won the election; therefore, we had the right to choose her."

 Early Voting

Early voting has started in some U.S. states and millions of people have requested or been sent absentee ballots, so they do not have to face other people at polling stations across the country on Election Day in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.

Trump, as he has repeatedly said in recent weeks, condemned election officials throughout the country for mailing unsolicited ballots to voters. "This is going to be a fraud like you've never seen," he said, citing a handful of Trump absentee ballots found recently in a trash can.

Biden urged Americans to vote and said there is "no evidence" that mailed-in ballots will lead to fraud but called for all votes to be counted in the election. Polls have shown that more Democrats favor absentee voting, while Republicans more often say they will vote on Election Day in person.

The high-stakes debate, perhaps watched on television or livestreamed by 100 million people, comes as Biden has for weeks maintained about a 7-percentage-point advantage over Trump in national polls, threatening to make Trump the third U.S. president in the past four decades to lose reelection for a second four-year term in the White House.

However, the race is closer in several key battleground states, which raises the possibility that Trump could once again lose the popular vote -- as he did against Democrat Hillary Clinton in 2016 -- and still win more of the all-important state electors to claim victory.
TOKYO and ATLANTA, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- InComm, a leading payments technology company, today announced that it has partnered with five overseas QR and barcode payments processors to facilitate acceptance of their technology at retailers across Japan. These processors include AlipayHK and UnionPay QR code, which are popular in China, EZ-Link Wallet and Kakao Pay from Korea, and Touch'n Go eWallet from Malaysia.

InComm Japan provides QR/barcode payments at the point of sale through connections at over 50,000 retail stores in Japan, including major convenience stores, drug stores, electronics retail stores, department stores, and supermarkets. InComm has an established range of overseas partners such as Alipay and domestic brands such as au PAY, d payment and PayPay. With the addition of these brands, InComm will now offer a total of 22 payments partners, including 12 Japan-based brands and 10 overseas brands. InComm Japan not only brings connectivity, but also provides one-stop operational support, such as integration, sales and marketing campaigns, and customer support for merchants.

"The pandemic has had an unfortunate effect on tourism, but we are preparing for the future recovery," said Takumaro Arai, Senior Vice President and General Manager, InComm Japan. "We're helping our retail partners prepare to handle their customers' payment of choice by partnering with new services that bubble up in popularity within our region."

This partnership is in line with the Japanese government's commitment to raising the volume of cashless payments by facilitating growth within the financial technology industry. InComm is playing a major role in this scenario, helping connect payment platforms with its ever-growing retail network.

About InComm Japan

InComm Japan is a subsidiary of InComm, a leading payments technology headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, United States. InComm holds 386 global patents and is an innovator in point-of-sale activation and prepaid technologies; the company's presence in Japan includes 65,000 retail locations ranging from convenience, drug, home appliance, and discount stores to mass retailers, supermarkets and other retailers. InComm Japan is currently expanding its payment capabilities to better serve its partners through the coordination of multiple domestic and foreign payment operators. Its focus on streamlining QR and barcode payments for point-of-sale integration began in 2017 through targeted acquisitions of QR and barcode payment technology and system assets.

About InComm

By building more value into every transaction through innovative payment technologies, InComm creates seamless and valuable commerce experiences. InComm's unique products and services  which range from gift card malls to enhanced payment platforms  connect companies across a wide range of industries including retail, healthcare, tolling & transit, incentives and financial services to an ever-expanding consumer base. With more than 25 years of experience, over 500,000 points of distribution, 386 global patents and a presence in more than 30 countries, InComm leads the payments industry from its headquarters in Atlanta, GA. Learn more at www.InComm.com.

Media Contacts:

Nilce Piccinini

Sr. Communications Manager

InComm

404-935-0377

[email protected]

Anthony Popiel

Dalton Agency

404-876-1309

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STRATFORD  A tire blowout led to the rollover crash that backed up traffic on Interstate 95 for hours Wednesday, according to a state police accident report.

A 23-year-old Yonkers, N.Y., man was driving a Ford Econoline E250 van south on Interstate 95, just beyond Exit 30, in the center of three lanes when the rear passenger-side tire blew out, the report said.
Top BJP leaders, including Home Minister Amit Shah and party president J P Nadda, held a meeting with Lok Janshakti Party chief Chirag Paswan on Thursday to thrash out a seat-sharing arrangement with allies for the Bihar assembly polls.

Paswan, LJP sources said, listed his grievances with Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar and spoke of pressure from within his party to contest on 143 seats in the elections to the 243-seat assembly at the meeting here.

"No seat-sharing deal was finalised at the meeting," an LJP leader said, adding that Shah noted that the BJP has had no differences with the LJP. The presence of Shah at a meeting of BJP leaders on the Bihar polls on Wednesday and now his meeting with Paswan underscored his effort to settle the internal differences within the ruling National Democratic Alliance amicably.

BJP sources said the party's Central Election Committee is likely to meet either on Saturday or Sunday to finalise its candidates for the three-phase polls. The nomination process for the first phase, under which 71 of the total 243 seats will go to polls, began from Thursday and will end on October 8.

The NDA partners are expected to announce a seat-sharing arrangement in a day or two. The Chirag Paswan-headed LJP has indicated it will fight on 143 seats if it does not get a "honourable" deal from its allies. It has said it will not contest on seats where the BJP will fight.

In 2015, it contested 42 seats and won two. The JD(U) was then part of the opposition alliance which decisively defeated the NDA.
Vietnam supports joint efforts by the United Nations (UN) and the African Union (AU) to promote peace in Africa, Ambassador Pham Hai Anh, deputy head of the Vietnamese mission to the UN, has said.

Speaking at the annual consultation between the UN Security Council (UNSC) and the African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) on September 30, Anh also affirmed Vietnam supports Mali's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and acknowledges that stakeholders in Mali has reached an agreement to establish a transitional government.

He emphasised the importance of ensuring security and safety for people of Mali and continuing efforts to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, and called on the transitional government and relevant parties to strengthen cooperation and mutual trust towards promoting national concord and making a peaceful and stable transition.

The ambassador urged relevant parties to comply with international humanitarian law and protect the rights of women and children, highlighting the importance of womens participation in all stages of the political process in Mali.

He also highly valued the cooperation between UNSC and AUPSC in preventing and dealing with the conflicts in Africa in general and in Mali in particular.

Rosemary Di Carlo, UN Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs, highlighted cooperation achievements between UNSC and AUPSC in the context of COVID-19 outbreak, especially their joint contributions to the peace processes in Mali, Madagascar, Sudan and South Sudan, and to promoting the participation of women and young people in peace processes.

She expressed her hope for stable situations in Mali, Sahel and Somalia, and praised AUPSCs response to the UN Secretary-Generals call for a global ceasefire to focus on fighting COVID-19.

Meanwhile, AU Commissioner for Peace and Security Smail Chergui affirmed that AUPSC will continue to work closely with UNSC, and reiterated the call by AU member countries on facilitating the involvement of African countries in UNSC in building the councils documents on Africa.

A joint statement was adopted at the consultation, spotlighting the role by AU in preventing, managing and solving conflicts, and in promoting reconstruction and development in Africa; and reaffirming the importance of strengthening the cooperation between UNSC and AUPSC on peace and security issues in Africa.

It also stressed the need to enhance the coordination in implementing the UNs 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the AU Agenda to 2063, and the UNSC's Resolution 2457 on supporting the initiative Silencing the Guns in Africa.

The annual consultation between the UNSC and the AUPSC was established in 2007 to enhance bilateral cooperation in peace and security in Africa. This was the first time the consultation was held online due to the COVID-19 pandemic. VNS

VN urges ensured security to promote political solutions in Syria, peaceful dialogue to restore stability in Mali The UN Security Council yesterday held a videoconference on the political situation in Syria during which the Vietnamese representative stressed the need to ensure security to promote political solutions in the country
Rokus streaming player lineup has erred on the side of maximalism over the past few years. Instead of funneling customers into a small number of options, Roku offers a streaming player for every conceivable need and budget. Making sense of all those options has never been easy, but its about to get even harder with this weeks announcements of a new Roku Ultra, a new streaming soundbar, and forthcoming support for Apples AirPlay 2 media-streaming and HomeKit smart-home technologies. The sprawling nature of Rokus 2020 device lineup means that there will be some new differences between products that didnt exist before, and prospective Roku customers will need to choose wisely. There are lots of other streaming devices to choose from other than Roku players, of course, but if you appreciate Rokus simple software and are in the market for new hardware this year, heres what you need to know: 2020 Roku features compared To help make sense of Rokus 2020 streaming lineup, check out this chart comparing all the key features for each device. Jared Newman / IDG The sections outlined in green represent new features that Roku is introducing this fall. As you can see, they add some fresh complications to the Roku-buying process. With the launch of AirPlay 2 and HomeKit support on Roku OS 9.4 later this year, for instance, youll be able to cast media to or mirror your screen on a Roku device from an iPhone, iPad, or Macbut only if you have a player with 4K video support. Roku wont say why its 1080p streamers dont offer this feature.

Mentioned in this article Roku Express+ (2019) Best Prices Today:

In any case, the limitation means that the Walmart-exclusive Roku Express+, which was previously an excellent 1080p streamer, is now missing a major new feature. You could spend the same $40 on a Roku Premiere to get AirPlay 2 support, but then youd get a vastly inferior remote control, with no TV volume or power buttons and no voice control. Your best bet is to spend an extra $10 on the Roku Streaming Stick+, which has both AirPlay 2 support and the better remote. (The absence of HomeKit support on 1080p devices could be even more vexing for Roku smart TV owners, since theyll miss out on being able to turn on the TV with a Siri voice command or looping their TV into smart-home routines.) Similar dilemmas abound with Rokus Streambar and Smart Soundbar. These devices are soundbars that double as streaming players, so when you plug them into your TV, theyll provide better audio than your TVs speakers alongside access to Rokus catalog of streaming video apps.

Mentioned in this article Roku Smart Soundbar Read our review Best Prices Today:
Im Rebecca Hoverd and I have had the absolute privilege of growing up on Aucklands North Shore for all my 23 years of life.

My childhood

I grew up as the baby in my family, a little surprise coming several years after my older siblings were born. This has given me a unique experience of life and for many years now Ive been the only one still living at home. Ive been blessed to have lots of adventures and fun with my older siblings.

With this family makeup in mind, I am the only Christian in my family. There are a few believers across my extended family, and I was brought up with the knowledge of God and Christian values but actively engaging with faith or attending church was not part of my early life.

It brings me joy to think of the small moments where God spoke to me through others in my childhood. For those of you who know the Little Golden books series, if my memory serves me correctly, I was given one called My Little Book About God by an uncle who was a minister. The beautiful illustrations in this book often came to mind in my first years of attending church and the images I had in mind as I thought of God.

My teenage years and coming to Christ

How does the youngest-by-several-years in a non-Christian family come to Christ you may ask? I have one of my best friends to thank for inviting me to youth events and youth group at Windsor Park Baptist Church. I was 14 when she invited me along and I havent left since.

While many people who dont grow up in a Christian household can often have a singular life-changing encounter with Jesus, I think my experience is more one of several smaller moments and choices where I deliberately chose to accept Jesus and to keep moving forwards with him.

I was told by a few people how amazing it was that I had become a Christian in a non-Christian family and how my faith truly was my own. Although I can see how that it is great, it certainly not been without its challenges. While I am grateful that my faith has always had to be my own to claim, I remember looking at friends who went to Christian schools and had gone to kids church growing up with a little bit of wishful thinking.

Now, I can reflect upon my journey so far with gratitude, especially for the fact that I can really connect with people who also didnt grow up with much connection to the local church.

How I became a young writer

Growing up I always enjoyed writing; as a way to reflect, express creativity and to record the moments of my life. I love reading too and I notice that the two hobbies tend to go hand and hand.

Writing allows me to process my thoughts and after sharing blogs online, my senior pastor Grant Harris (who is a senior writer himself) and fellow young writer, Matthew Thornton, suggested I join the young writers group.

Being part of a community of young writers, with the task of writing a monthly column, has been a wonderful opportunity to grow not only as a writer, but also in my faith. Often the material I read or listen to significantly informs what I write about. I also find myself frequently writing articles which I recognise as messages to myself, filled with encouragement and reminders from God.

Where I am now

Now I find myself really come face-to-face with how much I need to push into Jesus. I am in my penultimate year of my Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and Bachelor of Science conjoint. University is a lot of hard work and I find myself unsure as to which path my legal career will take. As I worry about the future, particularly in the midst of these challenging times, I see how much I really need to lean into Jesus.

I feel fortunate to have wonderful people, like my boyfriend of nearly three years, Tim, his family and others in my church community, who remind me of how much satisfaction and peace I can find in Jesus when I fully surrender to him fully. Life without Jesus might be stressful, and life with Jesus might be no less demanding, but I can be at peace because of him who is peace.

Where to from here

As an extrovert I have struggled with the lockdowns and extended periods at home. But it has given me the opportunity to really know Jesus more; to reflect upon how I manage through seasons of stress and what I can improve.

I plan to continue to lean into Jesus, to learn more of who he is and to live the full life he said he came to give us (John chapter 10, verse 10). Its an ongoing story.
ANNAPOLIS, Md.  A midshipman facing expulsion after an investigation into racist tweets he sent over the summer sued the Naval Academy Wednesday, claiming it is violating his constitutional rights of free speech and a fair and impartial hearing.

The Naval Academy opened an investigation into Midshipman 1st Class Chase Standage, 21, of California after he tweeted several racist statements, including saying Breonna Taylor received justice when police shot her, over the summer.

Other tweets, all of which are included as exhibits in the lawsuit, included statements criticizing defunding the police and calling for a drone strike on protesters described as antifa, a term used to describe left-leaning individuals who resist neo-Nazis and white supremacists, sometimes through violence.

Go ahead, cut funds to the police, Standage tweeted in response to a tweet calling for defunding police instead of more money for community policing. Community policing by building relations is expensive and timely, anyways. Bullets, on the other hand, are cheap and in ready supply (shrugging emoji).

A few days later, he tweeted All it takes is one drone strike (sic) in response to a tweet from conservative media personality Andy Ngo about antifa protesters in Seattle.

Standage tweeted the statements and others as an overreaction because his parents, both officers with Los Angeles Police Department during protests in the city, and because President Donald Trump, referred to by the commander-in-chief multiple times in the lawsuit, declared antifa as terrorists, according to the lawsuit.

The investigation ended last week with the Standage receiving appropriate administrative action, academy spokesperson Cmdr. Alana Garas told The Capital. Garas said she could not expand on the details of the action or confirm if Standage was still a member of the brigade, citing the Privacy Act.

In his lawsuit, the midshipman claims Superintendent Vice Adm. Sean Buck plans to recommend to the secretary of the Navy that Standage be separated from the Naval Academy. It names Buck and Navy Secretary Kenneth J. Braithwaite. The U.S. Attorneys Office will represent the Navy.

Story continues

We are aware of the filing; it would be inappropriate for the Naval Academy to comment on pending litigation, Garas wrote in an email.

The basis for the recommendation is that Standages tweets violated the Naval Academys policies against political activities and constituted conduct unbecoming a midshipman, a charge under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, according to the lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland.

Standages Annapolis attorneys, Crighton Chase and Michael Darrow, argue that the findings violate the First Amendment protection of free speech. They also claim that Standage was not given a fair and impartial hearing, which would violate his Fifth Amendment.

Chase, Darrow and Standage did not respond to requests for comment.

The lawsuit includes Commandant of Midshipmen Notice 5720, which lays out political activities regulations for midshipmen, in its exhibits.

Notice 5720 specifically lays out policy for political activity on social media. It allows midshipmen to express personal views on public issues or political candidates on social media platforms as long as the post is clear that it is the personal views of the midshipman and not of the Department of Defense. Standages Twitter account has since been deactivated, and it is unclear if he identified himself as a Naval Academy midshipman.

As always, members of the military must also be careful not to comment, post, or link to material that violates the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) or service regulation, according to the Notice 5720.

Standage agued to the Naval Academy command, the lawsuit claims, that his tweets were not political and were protected under the First Amendment. In the lawsuit, Chase and Darrow write that Standages tweets were responses to heated exchanges on Twitter. Standage was at home watching the protests in Los Angeles when he sent his tweets.

The lawsuit also claims that because the Naval Academy leadership has made comments about systemic racism and making the institution more diverse and inclusive that they could not fairly judge Standages conduct.

It is supremely ironic that MIDN Standage faces separation for expressing political views that were nothing of the kind, while the Command is imposing an oppressive political ideology on the Brigade of Midshipmen that seeks to chill free speech and punish any midshipman who does not actively get with the program, according to the lawsuit.

In showing that Buck and Capt. Thomas R. Buchanan, Commandant of Midshipman, have embraced anti-racism and tenets of the Black Lives Matter movement, the lawsuit includes tweets from the commandants daughter and mother.

The lawsuit claims that it does not question the superintendents or his commands view on racism as the issue.

Rather, it is the Commands monolithic insistence as to what constitutes racism (sic), a subject of enormous debate across the Country, and its insistence that people like MIDN Standage are not entitled to weigh in on that issue without being branded as a racist, that is the viewpoint discrimination raised by MIDN Standage in this Complaint, according to the lawsuit.

One of the central questions of the lawsuit is if the Naval Academy leadership has the right to define what constitutes racist conduct, said attorney Joseph Donahue, a Naval Academy graduate who practices law in Annapolis. He would argue that it does, and he is in favor of seeing the institution adopt more antiracism views.

And if the Navy and the Naval Academy determine that working to eliminate racism is part of the academys mission to produce well-qualified officers, that is in their purview to do so, not the midshipmen.

When you go to the Naval Academy, when you sign up, when you take the oath, you are agreeing that you are going to be a part of the fulfillment of that mission, said Donahue, who recently settled a discrimination lawsuit against the city of Annapolis and the Annapolis Housing authority claiming discrimination.

The lawsuit also questions whether the statements were political and if they violate the social media policy, Donahue said. Standage and his attorneys argue his statements were not political and that he did not tweet in his position as a midshipman.

And as soon as you start pushing those boundaries, I mean, this midshipman, Im sure knew that when hes posting about Breonna Taylor and some of these issues, hes saying things that are, at least attention-grabbing, theyre something that puts him, puts him out. Hes taking a position, Donahue said. So then hes leaving the Naval Academy to then interpret whether or not he was taking a position officially or unofficially.

The lawsuit comes as the Naval Academy, and the country, continue to address systemic racism. In September, Buck released comments on racism at the academy, encouraging members to watch a video put together by the Midshipman Diversity Team.

As I reflect on the past couple of months since the tragic death of George Floyd, I have been encouraged by the Academys students, faculty, staff, and alumni who understand the importance of diversity to our mission, Buck said in his statement. At the same time, I am not naive in thinking that bigotry and racism do not exist, to some extent, within our Naval Academy family.

The academy will be taking steps to better increase diversity and inclusion at the institution, including several discussions and including it in the curriculum for the plebe class, The Capital previously reported. The academy declined to expand on the efforts.

I believe  as I hope you do  that fostering an environment of dignity and respect here at the Naval Academy is essential to our mission of developing future leaders of character for the Navy and Marine Corps, Buck wrote. As the Superintendent, it is my responsibility to ensure that our community is safe, welcoming, and inclusive for all, but I cannot do this alone. It must be a team effort.



2020 The Baltimore Sun

Visit The Baltimore Sun at www.baltimoresun.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
When it comes to Apple in the enterprise, Microsoft wants to make the experience as smooth as possible. At this weeks JNUC2020 event I (virtually) spoke with Microsofts Corporate Vice President of the Enterprise Client & Mobility (ECM) team, Brad Anderson, who shared insights on his companys work with Jamf and the emerging new normal of remote work.

Securing the remote enterprise

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the rate of digital transformation, underlining the need for Microsoft to support device choice and improve cloud-based collaboration.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella has described this as, effectively, two years of change in mere months.

With millions now working from home, security enhancements such as the tight integration between Apples MDM solutions, Jamf Connect and Microsoft Endpoint Manager/Azure have become enterprise essential. Cloud-based security is one of the better approaches to handling diverse endpoints in a variety of different usage scenarios.

The best way to empower business (users) to work from everywhere is to manage, secure and enable them thorough the cloud, Anderson said.

Most enterprises continue to rely on Microsofts productivity apps, Word and Excel in their work and they want feature-parity across all the devices. This is what Microsoft wants to deliver.

A look at Microsoft 365

You think about what enterprises commercial organizations use to collaborate and to be productive, Anderson said. Its Office 365, Microsoft 365 that is the language of business. The work weve been doing with Jamf is to ensure the productivity and collaboration experience is enabled on the users chosen device and that it is secure.

This is also why a Microsoft 365 user license lets you set things up on up to 15 devices. It means your users can choose what device they want to run on now.

When it comes to the Mac, Microsoft and Jamf demonstrated a plethora of security and setup tools that enable Jamf, Apple and Microsoft Azure to work closely together in order to simplify device management for remote teams.

Microsoft also demonstrated new Office for Mac features at the show. There's some stuff that we that we've done together, not just making the Mac more manageable, but a more complete enterprise device, he said.

In one JNUC demo, an individual opened up a brand-new Mac; provisioned by Jamf, it started contacting Microsoft Endpoint manager in the Microsoft Cloud to get user, device and app authorizations.

Zero touch meets zero trust

Our users are working from everywhere, said Anderson. They're not behind the firewall any longer. Identity management is critical to this.

We're able to, you know, give this great experience where the employee working from home, takes a new Mac out of the box, turns it on and in a couple of minutes that user is productive using all the cloud services, said Anderson.

And we know this is a trusted identity using a trusted device. This concept of zero trust is what the industry talks about. Its what weve built together and is the best solution for Macs on the market, bar none.

The idea is that an enterprise with this system in place will know the user, can recognize the device, and confirm both are where they are expected to be.

All this information is looked at by Microsofts own conditional access engine, which checks its access rules before permitting or denying use. Its a complete solution for giving you that zero trust model where you block everything until you verify, he said.

The idea is both to empower end users to work from where they want to be, while also satisfying enterprise requirements for data security, reliability and predictability.

Device choice demands feature parity

In many ways, the work to support an increasingly heterogenous computing world reflects Microsofts strategic approach.

One illustration of this could be Microsoft Teams, which is is built on a framework called Electron. We build for the Web first, and then we take that code and apply it to all the platforms, Anderson said. What this allows us to do, thats really important to the Mac community, is that as we roll out new capabilities these roll out across all platforms at the same time.

This is something that matters to enterprise workers on a Mac.

Gone are the days [when] Skype for Business would lag on Mac behind Windows by quite a bit of time. On Teams, because of the way that we architected, knowing that Hey, our business is to enable users on their device of choice, that's no longer the case.

The argument makes sense for any kind of cloud-based services.

After all, if you build software for the Web first and then bring it to different devices, you can end up with a much less divergent code base. You essentially have common code across all the platforms, rather than having separate code paths that have to be managed and maintained, Anderson said.

Where work is going?

I asked where work is going.

I think you have to first ask, how is work changing. So, first of all, like this kind of a format of virtual meeting. This is the new norm. We did multiple years of cultural change in the two months of March and April 2020....

"...you know, for most organizations, had you asked them in January if they would be successful with everyone working remotely, I bet very few companies would have said 'yes,'"

Today, we know working remotely works.

Employees' expectations have changed, said Anderson. Around two-thirds of employees say they expect to work from home two or three days a week going forward, so the new norm is how to deliver these experiences.

The challenge is to look at the new normal and figure out how to improve it with technology.

How do we make users, more productive, more well-being in a world where they literally are working from everywhere and a hybrid work experience is the new normal? he said.

Anderson also talked about the newly-introduced Together Mode feature in Teams. In this mode, all participants in virtual meetings are placed in one virtual space, such as a meeting room or coffee bar, which the company says reduces distraction and boosts focus.

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At the 2017 confirmation hearing for her current position, as a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, in Chicago, she said she would be bound to follow the Roe decision as an appeals court judge.

Roe has been affirmed many times and survived many challenges in the court, she said. And its more than 40 years old, and its clearly binding on all courts of appeals. And so its not open to me or up to me, and I would have no interest in, as a court of appeals judge, challenging that precedent.

Asked whether Roe had been correctly decided, she did not give a direct answer.

I feel like I cant, as a nominee, offer an opinion, she said. I dont want to give the impression that I would treat some precedents as more binding or more valuable than others.

In remarks to students at Notre Dame in 2013, as reported in a student newspaper, Judge Barrett said the core right to abortion established in Roe appeared secure.

I think it is very unlikely at this point that the court is going to overturn Roe, she said. The fundamental element, that the woman has a right to choose abortion, will probably stand, she said.

If Judge Barrett is confirmed to the Supreme Court, she will bolster its five-member conservative majority with a sixth vote, moving the court slightly but firmly to the right and putting the right to abortion at heightened risk.

On the Supreme Court, Judge Barrett could take a fresh look at the right to abortion, and she has written that it may be entitled to less respect than some other precedents.
Elbow bumps for peace: Prem Rawat and Minister of Justice Alfonso Bonafede discussed how the Peace Education Program can help foster personal rehabilitation in correctional facilities and beyond. This is about acknowledging what can help people who are in dire straits, so that our communities, our societies, and indeed our countries, and our world, can stay together, not fracture apart.

Prem Rawat recently met with officials at the Italian Senate in Rome to speak about how the Peace Education Program can help foster personal rehabilitation in correctional facilities and beyond.

The founder of The Prem Rawat Foundation (TPRF) created the innovative workshop series to help people discover their own inner strength and personal peace. Since 2012, the Peace Education Program has been offered in more than 683 correctional facilities across the globe, winning praise from officials for improving attitudes and behavior. The program has been successful at several locations in Italy, including the Venice Santa Maria Maggiore and Pagliarelli prisons, and officials are considering an expansion to include many more facilities throughout the country.

Joining Prem Rawat on September 25 at the Italian Senate were Minister of Justice Alfonso Bonafede, Arnaldo Lomuti of the Senate Justice Committee, and Alessandra Maiorino of the Special Committee for the Safeguard and Promotion of Human Rights. A live video stream shared the meeting with a wider audience in Italian and the recording from Radio Radicale is available here.

In his remarks, Prem Rawat emphasized that the reason the Peace Education Program works is that it brings out the good in people.

The world needs some ability to promote the good in a person. It is incredibly important. In schools, from kindergarten, we tell kids what they should not do, but we dont strengthen the decision making process that should come within them, he said. This is about acknowledging what can help people who are in dire straits, so that our communities, our societies, and indeed our countries, and our world, can stay together, not fracture apart.

Italian officials praised the Peace Education Program for helping incarcerated people productively reenter society and not repeat past mistakes.

Minister of Justice Alfonso Bonafede applauded the program for providing a forum for participants to rethink their behaviors, assume responsibility for their actions, and acquire more self-awareness. Senator Arnaldo Lomuti commended the program for helping participants reflect on the value of their life, on their dignity, and the importance of making better choices.

Their comments are supported by a comprehensive new study of 604 incarcerated participants across four continents that found remarkable results. Positive improvements were found in 89 percent of participants, who reported that the program helped them feel empowered to face past events, gain a willingness to change, better manage their anger and avoid fighting.

In her remarks, Senator Alessandra Maiorino emphasized the value of the Peace Education Program beyond prisons, and how it can help youth in schools.

Indeed, the program has proven effective in a variety of settings outside of corrections such as schools, community centers and many more.

The Peace Education Program workshops can be offered in person, virtually, or on inmate tablets by GTL and Edovo. The course is neither religious nor political, and The Prem Rawat Foundation makes the workshop materials available free of charge.

The Peace Education Program is just one of the ways that TPRF advances dignity, peace and prosperity by addressing fundamental human needs.

During the height of the COVID-19 breakout in Italy earlier this year, TPRF worked with the Italian NGO, CESVI, to help provide over 1 million facemasks, 550 ventilators, and critical care to the elderly and handicapped.

Learn more about all of The Prem Rawat Foundations initiatives here.
AFRICAN AMERICAN ALLIANCE FUND ANNOUNCES FIRST GRANTS

Launched at The Orange County Community Foundation, Funding Will Support Three Organizations Serving Orange Countys African American Community

The African American Alliance Fund has awarded a first round of grants to 100 Black Men of Orange County (100 BMOC), Community Action Partnership of OC (CAP OC) and The G.R.E.E.N. Foundation (TGF). The Fund was launched at the Orange County Community Foundation (OCCF) in celebration of Juneteenth this year to raise awareness about systemic racism and support programs that advance African Americans within Orange County and surrounding communities.

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I launched this Fund to go beyond what I have done in the past, and with a vision to support the African American community in a thoughtful and deliberate way, said Tammy Tumbling, founder of the African American Alliance Fund and OCCF executive vice president and COO. I am humbled by the outpouring of support from the community, and thrilled to partner with the selected nonprofits to advance their mission-critical work for African Americans in Orange County and beyond.

Tumbling launched the Fund with $25,000 of her own resources. It has since grown sixfold with contributions reaching $150,000 and counting. With a focus on programs designed to improve outcomes in the areas of education, health, human services, economic development and civic engagement, the Fund is already driving tangible impact in the community.

The first round of grants will specifically support:

100 BMOCs Passport to the Future program, which serves African American males from 6th through 12th grade, providing mentorship, cultural appreciation and college preparation with an emphasis on STEM.

A civic engagement initiative at CAP OC in partnership with the Nu Tau Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African American Men, intended to increase voter participation and empower underrepresented communities to make a difference.

TGFs continued efforts to ensure that African American citizens complete the Census and understand its role in securing future funding for healthcare, education, job training, public transportation and more.

We are honored to receive an inaugural grant from the African American Alliance Fund, said Gregory C. Scott, president & CEO, CAP OC. CAP OC and our partner, OC Alpha Phi Alpha, believe that we must capitalize on the national spotlight and rally around the political process now. By increasing voter registration in the African American community by 25%, we can help create long-term systematic changes within our community.

To support the African American Alliance Fund and learn more about its impact in the community, visit oc-cf.org/AAAFund.
A National Investigation Agency (NIA) special court here on Thursday granted bail to peasant leader Akhil Gogoi in a case related to the anti-Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) stir in Assam last year.

NIA special judge Pranjal Das granted the bail on a surety of Rs 30,000 and other conditions like non-tampering of evidence and influencing witnesses. He will, however, have to stay in jail as he is yet to get bail in connection with another NIA case.

The court granted bail to Gogoi in connection with the NIA case filed in Chabua. He was denied bail in connection with the case in Chandmari in August this year. The bail application in that case will come for hearing on October 13, Santanu Barthakur, counsel for Gogoi, said.

The leader of Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS), Gogoi was arrested on December 12 last year for allegedly inciting violence during the anti-CAA stir. He was later handed over to NIA and a court here sent him to 10 days custody of the agency on December 17. He was taken to New Delhi the same day for questioning.

Gogoi was brought back to Guwahati on December 25 and has been in judicial custody ever since.

The Gauhati high court, in July, granted him bail in connection with three separate cases filed by the Assam police for inciting violence during the protests.

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Mohinder Singh - who allegedly killed four police officers in a horror crash on Melbourne's Eastern Freeway in April - is accused of trafficking cannabis and meth to a child

A truck driver accused of killing four police officers when his vehicle ploughed into them on a busy Melbourne freeway has been charged with supplying illegal drugs to a child.

Mohinder Singh was charged with culpable driving causing death following the April 22 crash on the Eastern Freeway in Kew, inner-city Melbourne and last month hit with another 33 charges - including drug trafficking.

Singh, 47, is accused of hitting the officers with his truck after they had pulled over Porsche-driving mortgage broker Richard Pusey, 42, who was allegedly clocked driving at 149km/h while under the influence of methamphetamine and cannabis.

Pusey himself is facing more than a dozen charges after also allegedly filming the crash site and verbally abusing a senior constable as she lay dying.

Court documents have revealed Singh allegedly trafficked cannabis to a child for their use on April 5.

He also allegedly trafficked cannabis and meth to a child between April 10 and April 16.

Richard Pusey, the driver of a Porsche who allegedly fled the scene of the truck crash, is taken away from his Fitzroy property by police on April 23

Senior Constable Kevin King (pictured, far left), Constable Glen Humphris (second from left), Leading Senior Constable Lynette Taylor (second from right) and and Constable Josh Prestney (far right) all died in the crash

Singh, from the south-eastern Melbourne suburb of Cranbourne, fronted Melbourne Magistrates Court on Thursday - where his lawyer said the truck driver needed to meet face-to-face with an expert witness before his court case could continue, NCA NewsWire reported.

Among Singh's other charges are dangerous driving causing death and driving under the influence.

Leading Senior Constable Lynnette Taylor, Senior Constable Kevin King and constables Glen Humphris and Josh Prestney were killed while they were impounding Pusey's Porsche on the freeway.

A Connect Logistics' refrigerated chicken truck veered across the freeway and hit the four officers, who were on the side of the road pulling over Pusey.

They were in the process of impounding the mortgage broker's Porsche 911.

Pusey avoided being struck in the crash as he had been urinating off to the side of the road.

The 47-year-old is already facing charges of culpable driving after the April 22 incident that killed Lynnette Taylor, Kevin King, Glen Humphris and Joshua Prestney

Public funerals were held for all four officers after the tragedy, which marked the single greatest loss of police life in Victoria's history.

Pusey (pictured) is facing more than a dozen charges

Pusey, of Fitzroy, was initially charged with 12 offences include driving at a dangerous speed, reckless conduct endangering life, destruction of evidence, perverting the course of justice, failing to remain at the scene after a drug test and failing to render assistance.

He was arrested a day after the crash on April 23 and was hit with a further two charges in June, including behaving in an indecent or offensive manner and committing an act outraging public decency.

Last month, Magistrate Donna Bakos granted Pusey's lawyer Chris McLennan access to 177 pages of Pusey's medical documents to support his case, but some additional pages were not included because they could 'identify others'.

The details of the documents were not disclosed to the court and prosecutor Jason Ong did not ask for access.
MILWAUKEE, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Only nine percent of Milwaukee students will earn both a high school diploma and college degree. To boost students' long-term success to achieve their full educational and career potential, Northwestern Mutual today announced a commitment of $2.5 million to schools, nonprofits and programming in the city of Milwaukee. These funds will support the company's newly-evolved philanthropic strategy of investing in educational pathways to close the achievement gap among talented, yet underrepresented students and drive sustainable change in its hometown.

Northwestern Mutual, through its Foundation and in collaboration with community partners, is committed to addressing social, racial and economic disparities in education by increasing the number of quality seats at targeted public, charter and choice schools in Milwaukee to create pathways and opportunities for students.

"Disparities are a contributing factor to the academic achievement gap, creating obstacles that prevent diverse and talented students from reaching their full potential," said Eric Christophersen, president, Northwestern Mutual Foundation. "We are committed to creating paths to long-term educational and employment success for students of all backgrounds, fostering a pipeline of diverse talent for career opportunities at our company and throughout Milwaukee."

For more than 25 years, the company's investment in education has focused on key areas to help bridge a child's educational success, including quality early childhood education, K-12 programmatic education partners and post-secondary education completion. In total, the company invested more than $53 million to date. These investments and efforts led to an increase in reading proficiency by as much as 25 percent among first-grade cohorts in partner schools and have provided thousands of juniors and seniors with college preparation support as part of the high school strategy.

Northwestern Mutual is building on these successes and evolving its focus to sustain and deepen its impact at high-performing schools, helping to ensure all children can make the successful transition to college and job opportunities. This evolved strategy will follow students along their educational journeys from kindergarten to employment and connect them with high-quality, diverse teachers and mentors, along with quality education and meaningful career preparation, all of which are critical to long-term success.

The company is partnering with the following Milwaukee-based schools:

Acosta Middle School

Bruce Guadalupe Community School

Carmen Schools of Science and Technology

of Science and Technology Cristo Rey Jesuit High School

Dr. Howard Fuller Collegiate Academy

Forest Home Avenue School

Golda Meir

Hmong American Peace Academy

Kingdom Prep Lutheran High School

Milwaukee Academy of Science

Milwaukee College Prep School

Milwaukee Environmental Sciences Academy

Notre Dame School of Milwaukee

Pilgrim Lutheran School

Prince of Peace School

Rocketship Public Schools

Ronald Reagan High School

Rufus King International High School

Stellar Collegiate

St. Marcus Lutheran School

Wedgewood Park International School

Northwestern Mutual recently announced its partnership with All-In Milwaukee, a college completion and career placement program, to fund its Talent of the Future program. Over the next four years, the company's contribution of $1.6 million will provide 80 Milwaukee-area students with impactful scholarships as well as career leadership development, mentorship and internship opportunities at Northwestern Mutual.

The company is also seeking to address heightened disparities in internet access due to the shift to virtual schooling caused by the pandemic. An estimated 20 percent of Milwaukee students currently live in homes without access to internet. Northwestern Mutual has allocated $100,000 from its $2.5 million investment to support City Forward Collective and Milwaukee Public Schools in addressing this digital divide by providing wireless mobile hotspots with data subscriptions and home internet services to over 5,000 students.

Beyond disparities in education, Northwestern Mutual is committed to fighting racism and discrimination in all forms. The company has a dedicated task force, Sustained Action for Racial Equity, led by Chairman, President, and CEO John Schlifske, which takes a holistic look at actions that will have the greatest impact to drive sustainable change.

Locally, Northwestern Mutual also collaborates with partners to revitalize neighborhoods and support prominent local destinations. Nationally, the company supports research to find a cure for childhood cancer.

About Northwestern Mutual Foundation

The mission of the Northwestern Mutual Foundation is to improve the lives of children and families in need. The Foundation has given more than $386 million since its inception in 1992 and is designed to create lasting impact in the communities where the company's employees and financial representatives live and work. We accomplish this by combining financial support, volunteerism, thought leadership and convening community partners to deliver the best outcomes. Our efforts are focused nationally on curing childhood cancer, and locally on education, neighborhoods and making our hometown of Milwaukee a great destination. Visit Northwestern Mutual Foundation to learn more.

About Northwestern Mutual

Northwestern Mutual has been helping people and businesses achieve financial security for more than 160 years. Through a holistic planning approach, Northwestern Mutual combines the expertise of its financial professionals with a personalized digital experience and industry-leading products to help its clients plan for what's most important. With $290.3 billion in total assets, $29.9 billion in revenues, and $1.9 trillion worth of life insurance protection in force, Northwestern Mutual delivers financial security to more than 4.6 million people with life, disability income and long-term care insurance, annuities, and brokerage and advisory services. The company manages more than $161 billion of investments owned by its clients and held or managed through its wealth management and investment services businesses. Northwestern Mutual ranks 102 on the 2020 FORTUNE 500 and is recognized by FORTUNE as one of the "World's Most Admired" life insurance companies in 2020.

Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM) (life and disability insurance, annuities, and life insurance with long-term care benefits) and its subsidiaries in Milwaukee, WI. Subsidiaries include Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (investment brokerage services), broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, member FINRA and SIPC; the Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company (investment advisory and trust services), a federal savings bank; and Northwestern Long Term Care Insurance Company.

SOURCE Northwestern Mutual
PORTLAND, Ore. - A self-described member of the Proud Boys, a far-right group, pleaded not guilty to a dozen charges Thursday related to clashes in the streets of Portland, Oregon, between right- and left-wing demonstrators in the run-up to Novembers presidential election.

Alan Swinney, 50, was secretly indicted on Sept. 11 on charges that include assault and unlawful use of a weapon after authorities said he pointed a revolver at a protester and fired a paintball gun and mace at people on two occasions in August.

He was not arrested until Wednesday and made his first court appearance Thursday. He remained in custody.

Swinneys defence attorney, Eric Wolfe, did not immediately return a call seeking comment.

President Donald Trump told the Proud Boys to stand back and stand by when asked to denounce white supremacists during the debate Tuesday with former Vice-President Joe Biden.

Trump was widely criticized for not definitively denouncing white supremacist groups.

Amid the fallout, the president said Wednesday that he had never heard of the Proud Boys and told them to stand down and let law enforcement do their job.

The Proud Boys have held several rallies in Portland, most recently last weekend when several hundred members of the group gathered to express their support for Trump and the police and to condemn protests in the city that often end in violence and vandalism.

The Proud Boys call themselves Western chauvinists and are known for their violent confrontations with antifascists and other ideological opponents at protests, Members have been spotted at various Trump rallies, including last month in Nevada.

The Southern Poverty Law Center was sued for defamation after it designated the Proud Boys a hate group.

The Proud Boys have distanced themselves from Swinney, who has identified himself as a member and has a Proud Boys tattoo on his arm. Court documents show he moved to the Portland suburb of Sandy, Oregon, about eight months ago from Texas.
Theres a high chance that a tropical depression will form in the Caribbean soon.

The National Hurricane Center has raised the probabilities of a depression forming to 70 percent as of Thursday afternoon but have changed the timeline and added a disclaimer.

Forecasters originally said a tropical depression could form as soon as this weekend -- but as of Thursday afternoon that has been pushed back to early next week.

They also added that theres a chance the system could move over land in Mexico or Central America, which would limit or end its chances to develop. Thats not a sure thing; it could stay over the Caribbean or southern Gulf.

The tropical wave being watched was in the western Caribbean on Thursday afternoon and was well defined, according to the hurricane center.

It will be in a good area for strengthening, and if it stays over water a tropical depression could form by early next week.

Its too soon to say if it will affect the United States.

The hurricane center cautioned those in Belize, Cuba and on Mexicos Yucatan Peninsula to keep an eye on this system, which could bring heavy rain to some of those same areas.

Theres also another area in the tropics being watched as of Thursday. This tropical wave was located just east of the Lesser Antilles, the hurricane center said.

It was disorganized on Thursday but is forecast to track westward and could move into an area with more favorable conditions to develop early next week.

The hurricane center put the chances of a depression forming over the next five days at 20 percent.

There have been 23 named storms so far this season in the Atlantic. Forecasters have used up the entire 2020 storm name list and have had to resort to the Greek alphabet for names. The next name on the list is Gamma.

The Atlantic hurricane season ends on Nov. 30.
Hyderabad: Congress in Telangana on Thursday demanded that the TRS government convene a special session of the state assembly for passing a unanimous resolution against the anti-farmer laws" recently enacted by the NDA government at the Centre. Claiming that the opposition of TRS to the new farm law was an eyewash, state Congress president N Uttam Kumar Reddy said the party government should prove its commitment towards the farmers of Telangana by immediately convening the special session also to pass necessary legislation to override" the contentious central laws.

Reddy, an MP, said Congress would organise massive protests in front of the statues of Mahatma Gandhi or district Collectorates across the state on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanthi on Friday as part of the nation-wide agitation demanding withdrawal of the new agricultural laws, according to a Congress release. He alleged that the three new laws passed by the NDA government were aimed at benefiting the corporates.

Charging the TRS government with being unfair towards the state farmers, he claimed it did not honour its promise of waiver of crop loans up to Rs one lakh despite completing nearly two years of its second term in power. He alleged that the farmers of Telangana were deprived of compensation for losses due to natural calamities. They were also not having any crop insurance facility this season due to the negligent attitude of the state government, he charged.

Reddy said the previous Congress-led UPA Government at the Centre and the party government in the then undivided Andhra Pradesh had waived crop loans in a single instalment to help the farmers. PT SJR VS VS 10011951 NNNN.

Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor
An aircraft drops fire retardant on the Glass fire in Napa County. (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times)

Here's one possible reason Northern California is faring so much worse than Southern California in this year's terrible fire season: a lack of rain.

Northern California saw dramatically less rain than Southern California did over the last water year, which ended Wednesday. While downtown Los Angeles enjoyed 99% of its annual average rainfall, downtown San Francisco saw just 49%.

The pattern was seen across the state. Santa Rosa, the most populous city in Sonoma County, which was ravaged by the Glass fire now burning in wine country, saw just 53% of its annual average rainfall; San Diego, meanwhile, saw 132% of its annual rainfall.

Of the six largest fires in California history, five are currently burning, and all of them are in either Northern or Central California. More than 3.9 million acres have burned in California this year, a record in the state's modern history, with the fires responsible for at least 30 deaths and the destruction of more than 7,500 structures.

The last full month of summer was also the hottest August on record in California, a reminder that the effects of climate change are a factor in the state's worsening wildfire seasons.

Some scientists say climate change in California is causing dry periods to get drier while wet periods get wetter, making vegetation even more ripe for kindling.

Other factors contributing to the California fire season, an increasingly destructive cycle, include a powerful series of lightning storms that began in mid-August; tens of millions of dead trees across the state; a legacy of severe drought; bark beetle infestation; overgrown forests; a failure to thin forests of excess vegetation, such as through prescribed fire programs; and a decades-long legacy of massive housing development intruding into wildlands that are naturally prone to fast-moving wildfires whipped by Santa Ana and Diablo winds.

The return of fire weather in Northern California on Thursday stoked concern about the spread of existing fires.

Story continues

After a midweek reprieve, red flag warnings were issued again by the National Weather Service starting Thursday afternoon for the San Francisco Bay Areas hills, as well as portions of Lake, Mendocino and Monterey counties. Theyre expected to last through Saturday.

Red flag warnings are issued when meteorologists are highly confident there will be dangerous fire weather.

Fires continue to rage in both Napa and Sonoma counties, where the Glass fire has burned more than 56,000 acres since Sunday and destroyed at least 143 single-family homes and a number of winery buildings; it is just 5% contained.

The weather service warned that winds were blowing in from the north and could push the fire toward the community of Angwin in the northern Napa Valley, which has a population of about 3,000. Angwin is home to a number of wineries, the liberal arts Pacific Union College, and a small airfield.

Winds on Thursday afternoon could reach gusts of up to 30 mph, and the air is expected to remain considerably dry Thursday night into Friday morning.

The heat was expected to spike again across Northern California, with temperatures as much as 25 degrees higher than the average for this time of year. Santa Rosa, where homes have been lost to the Glass fire, was expected to see a high of 104 degrees Thursday.

The entire town of Angwin is under a mandatory evacuation order, as is the entire town of Calistoga, with a population of more than 5,000, and a portion of St. Helena, where more than 6,000 residents live.

The rest of St. Helena is under an evacuation warning.

The 6-week-old Dolan fire burning in the Big Sur area of Monterey County is 87% contained, but as with the Glass fire in wine country, theres worry that gusts of up to 30 mph could worsen that fire.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Five including an assistant manager and a former manager of the Union Bank of India were arrested by Telangana Police for cheating the bank of Rs 2.91 crore by certifying imitation gold as genuine.

According to the Rachakonda police, Talloju Sai alias Sainath was working as a gold appraiser at the banks Thukkuguda Branch in Hyderabad. Sai wanted to make easy money by getting loans from the bank and gave fake gold to his friends and relatives asking them to come to the bank for loans, the police said. As a gold appraiser at the bank, Sainath certified the imitation gold as genuine, they added.

He mortgaged the fake gold in the name of his friends and relatives and opened 99 accounts in the name of 33 people for the same. Though the accounts were in the name of his friends and relatives, he used to take all the money given out as loans.

The bank manager, Anil Kumar, was suspicious on the quality of the gold and Sai managed him by luring share in the loans. Later, Kumar was transferred to Banswada in Nizamabad district and after his transfer, Deputy Manager Ramawat Pradeep Kumar became a partner in Sais manipulations.

Pradeep also left the branch on transfer, following which Yashwant Reddy became the manager. He too suspected Sainaths activity and lodged a complaint with the police. Sainath was questioned by the police and the real scam came to light.

Along with him, the police also arrested managers Sunil Kumar, Pradeep, auditors Santosh and Sivanath and a car, a two-wheeler and real estate documents were seized from them. The accounts belonging to Sainath and his friends were also seized by the police.

According to the police, the accused had been renewing the loans in a timely manner to prevent them from being auctioned off. Sainath was also working as a Gold Appraiser in Telangana Grameena Vikas Bank from where he had taken a loan of Rs 54.06 lakh.

Police had initially identified that Sainath frequently visited Goa with the illegal money and spent them in casinos. He had also bought a house worth Rs 60 lakh.
Capella says two officers arrested for Cancun robbery not guilty

Cancun, Q.R.  Two state police officers who were arrested for the crime of robbery in Cancun are not guilty, says the Quintana Roo Police Chief. On Wednesday, news broke of their arrests however, Alberto Capella Ibarra says they are not guilty and have been released.

The two men, who are both two-year officers, were arrested for the robbery of a mechanic shop after a victim identified them as the assailants. However, Capella says that GPS locators along with surveillance cameras place both men on the other side of the city at the time of the robbery.

Two state police officers wrongly arrested for Cancun robbery

In a public broadcast accompanied by the officers who carried out the arrests, the Secretario de Seguridad Publica explained that the assault that occurred Tuesday in Region 100 of the city lead to the arrest of these agents.

Capella Ibarra stressed that the arrests were due to confusion or a clash between two corporations that were separately investigating the same crime derived from the identification of the victims. He also added that he spoke with the prosecutor and that after an internal investigation, the Public Ministry determined that there was no evidence to process the two officers.



Video surveillance of the armed Cancun robbery

On Tuesday around 11:00 a.m., four people, two of them armed, entered a business and assaulted those inside, making off with 70,000 in cash and a vehicle, which was later found crashed.

While we are discussing and investigating this circumstance, there is a group of crooks, presumed responsible for a criminal act, who are free, probably mocking the situation as it developed. That is the reality and it is what we must address immediately, said Capella.
"We are thrilled to launch iCIMS' new solution and brand to support employers as they navigate this new era of work," said Steve Lucas, CEO of iCIMS. "With Talent Cloud, iCIMS is leading from the front, doubling down on innovation to arm our customers with the best technology, critical data insights, and the industry's strongest community of customers and partners to support them in the next generation of work."

More than 4,000 employers across the globe, representing a workforce of 30 million people, including Indeed, Lloyds Bank, XPO Logistics, and the American Heart Association, partner with iCIMS to power their strategic talent initiatives.

"We proudly partner with iCIMS and leverage the Talent Cloud because we have a shared commitment to innovation and we know the importance of talent acquisition and having the right people in our organization," said Scott Bonneau, vice president of global talent attraction, HR analytics, and HR technology at Indeed. "iCIMS enables us to build strong teams of our own, and together, we're powering our mutual customers with flexible, collaborative, and impactful technology to help them build the workforces of tomorrow."

"While the way we work has certainly changed, one thing remains the same  an organization's success depends on its people, and talent powers transformation," said Susan Vitale, chief marketing officer of iCIMS. "This year's events have accelerated critical conversations around digital transformation and the future of work. Our new platform, along with our refreshed brand purpose, empower our customers to successfully align with evolving business strategies to overcome new challenges."

For more information on iCIMS' Talent Cloud, visit https://www.icims.com/.

Talent, technology, and business leaders are encouraged to register for iCIMS' free INSPIRE 2020 virtual event taking place Nov. 17 and 18. Attendees will get a view into iCIMS' transformative talent solutions and hear from some of the most influential speakers including Mindy Kaling, Trevor Noah, Dallas Mavericks' CEO Cynthia Marshall, Forbes Media EVP Moira Forbes, and renowned performance and wellbeing culture strategist, Jeanette Bronee.

About iCIMS, Inc.

iCIMS is the talent cloud company that empowers organizations to attract, engage, hire, and advance the right talent that builds a diverse, winning workforce. iCIMS accelerates transformation for a community of more than 4,000 customers, including a third of the Fortune 100, that employ more than 30 million people worldwide. For more information, visit www.icims.com.

SOURCE iCIMS, Inc.

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Insurers have succeeded in dismissing COVID-19 business-interruption lawsuits in 17 out of 23 cases heard so far, with a growing number of judges finding that some tangible alteration of a property is required to trigger coverage under commercial property policies.

Motions to dismiss were denied in six cases, with three of those rulings from the same judge.

No one expected every court in the country to grant all of these early motions to dismiss, said attorney Steven Badger, who defends insurers for the Zelle law firm. That is an obvious trend showing that in the vast majority of these cases there was no credible argument for coverage.

In a ruling on Tuesday, U.S. District Court Judge Charles R. Wolle in Des Moines, Iowa became one of the latest judges to find no merit to arguments that a government closure order by itself constitutes a direct physical loss to a property. He dismissed with prejudice a lawsuit filed by Oral Surgeons P.C. against Cincinnati Insurance Co.

Judge Wolle did not get into details in his two-page order, but other judges have explained their reasoning at length.

On Sept. 21, U.S. District Court Judge Robert W. Gettleman in Chicago dismissed a lawsuit filed by Sandy Point Dental seeking coverage for COVID-19 closure losses. In his opinion, Gettleman noted what a colleague in New York wrote when rejecting a similar claim by a magazine against an insurer. That opinion said the coronavirus damages lungs. It doesnt damage printing presses.

The coronavirus does not physically alter the appearance, shape, color, structure, or other material dimension of the property, Gettleman wrote in his order. Consequently, plaintiff has failed to plead a direct physical loss  a prerequisite for coverage.

U.S. District Judge Cathy Ann Bencivengo in San Diego wrote an 11-page order on Sept. 11 granting a motion by Farmers Group Inc. to dismiss a lawsuit filed by Pappys Barber Shops. The judge gave Pappys an opportunity to show how an amended pleading might persuade her that coverage is owed, but also said any amendment is likely to be futile.

Bencivengo said no coverage is owed under Farmers policy unless government orders, at a minimum, prohibit access to the insured premises due to a direct physical loss of or damage to property elsewhere.

The policy insures property, in this case plaintiffs property and physical places of business, and not plaintiffs business itself, Bencivengo explained. To that end, the civil authority coverage provision only provides coverage to the extent that access to plaintiffs physical premises is prohibited, and not if plaintiffs are simply prohibited from operating their business.

A database created by the Zelle law firm lists 17 COVID-19 cases that have been dismissed in 11 jurisdictions, and four where motions to dismiss were denied. A separate database maintained by the University of Pennsylvania Carey School of Law shows two additional cases where dismissal motions were denied.

Three of the dismissal motions were denied by the same judge: U.S. District Judge Stephen Bough for the Western District of Missouri in Kansas City. In Studio 417 Inc et al v Cincinnati Insurance Co., Bough said the plaintiffs plausibly alleged that coronavirus was a physical substance that attached to and damaged properties, rendering them unsafe and unusable. Bough later rejected two other insurer dismissal motions. He has not ruled on the merits of any of the cases.

A U.S. District Court Judge in Orlando, Fla; a state judge in Bergen County, N.J. and a state judge in Philadelphia have also denied motions to dismiss COVID-19 business-interruption claims, the databases show. Those cases remain pending.

Badger said the judges who denied motions to dismiss COVID-19 lawsuits did not determine that coverage is owed.

It means only that accepting the pleaded facts in the lawsuit as true, the court believed there may be some argument to be made for coverage, he said. In these cases the insured must still survive a motion for summary judgment and then establish coverage at trial.

Insurers still a long way to go. The University of Pennsylvania database shows 1,099 lawsuits seeking coverage for COVID-19 losses have been filed so far.

The pace of new filings has slowed. The litigation tracker shows 30 cases were filed in the week ending Sept. 14, compared to a weekly peak of 70 cases filed during the week ending May 4.

About the photo: The interior of Pappys Barbershop in San Diego is shown. Photo courtesy of Pappys.
A Philadelphia man who posed as a customer before he robbed an AT&T store in Ocean Township in 2016 with four others was sentenced to 19 years in state prison, authorities announced Wednesday.

Anthony Clark, 42, was convicted in February of armed robbery, criminal restraint, possession of a handgun for an unlawful purpose, theft of movable property and receiving stolen property, according to a statement from the Monmouth County Prosecutors Office.

Clark and four others drove from Philadelphia to the Ocean Township store on Sept. 6, 2016 in a stolen car and he was the first to enter the Route 35 business, the office said.

Clark posed as a customer and goaded a store employee into the far corner of the store while three others entered and forced two other workers into a back inventory room at gunpoint, officials said.

They forced the employees to their knees and zip tied their hands and feet as Clark kept watch in front of the store while communicating with another person who had parked the stolen car across the highway, the office said.

Clark then filled laundry bags with $130,000 in store merchandise and loaded them into the car before the five drove off, authorities said.

The names of the other people involved in the robbery were not released by the prosecutors office and the status of their cases was not immediately clear.

Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription.

Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com.
After receiving billions in government aid through the bipartisan $2.2 trillion CARES Act, major US airlines and defense contractor Boeing are moving forward with mass layoffs, adding tens of thousands to the unemployment rolls as the coronavirus pandemic continues to spread unchecked throughout the country.

Leading the charge in excising workers from their payrolls are American and Delta, which are set to eliminate upwards of 40,000 jobs beginning today, after Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin failed once again to reach an agreement on a fifth coronavirus stimulus bill, which would include more government grants to the airlines.

A man wearing a mask walks by a New York department store, Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2020. The discount department store chain has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and is closing its 13 stores. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)

In addition to the airlines, Boeing, the worlds second largest defense contractor, which received $17 billion through the CARES Act, is also expected to announce more layoffs. The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday that the company plans to move all 787 Dreamliner production from its Everett, Washington factory to its North Charleston facility in South Carolina.

This past April, Boeing announced it would be cutting 10 percent of its 160,000 employee workforce, of which 6,800 have already been laid off, while roughly 5,500 accepted early buyout packages.

Just two weeks ago, the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee released the results of its 18-month investigation into the two crashes of Boeing 737 Max airplanes that killed a combined total of 346 passengers and crew. The report laid out damning evidence that Boeing knowingly risked the lives of countless thousands of people by rushing into service an aircraft it knew to have potentially fatal design flaws. It systematically concealed the dangers from government regulators, airline customers, pilots and the general public.

Yet this criminal corporation and the commercial airlines, which received billions in taxpayer money, justified by Congress as an effort to save jobs, have been allowed to use the handouts to slash payrolls, restructure operations at the expense of workers wages and working conditions and boost their stock prices and executive bonuses. Meanwhile, the Democrats and Republicans allowed the $600-per-week federal unemployment supplement to expire two months ago, workers are facing the expiration of state jobless benefits and nothing is done to prevent millions from being evicted, going hungry and falling into destitution.

Neither of the big business parties, which pull out all stops to rescue Wall Street, are in any hurry to provide aid to workers. Democrats and Republicans are united in the drive to force workers back on the job in the midst of the pandemic, using unemployment and the specter of poverty as a club, in order to fully resume the extraction of profit from the workers labor. In this, they demonstrate their total subservience to the corporate-financial aristocracy that runs the country.

The Washington Post published an article Wednesday based on Labor Department data showing that since mid-March, the lowest 25 percent of income earners have seen their wages decrease by as much as 30 percent, while the top 25 percent have seen their earnings remain the same or slightly increase. Meanwhile, ultra-wealthy pandemic profiteers such as Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos and Tesla CEO Elon Musk have seen their wealth increase by 65 and 50 percent respectively.

The CARES Act, passed at the end of March by a near-unanimous vote of both parties, singled out American, Delta, United and Southwest airlines for multi-billion-dollar bailouts. Smaller regional carriers such as Alaska Air Group and Hawaiian Holdings received multi-million-dollar bailouts.

Doug Parker, the CEO of American Airlines, was joined by Sara Nelson, international president of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, on CNBCs Squawk Box Wednesday morning. Both pleaded with Congress for a six-month extension of the so-called Payroll Support Program, the official name of the airline bailout scheme.

Absent action, sometime today, we unfortunately are choosing to have a hundred thousand or more not employed, Parker warned, essentially threatening the livelihood of every single American Airlines worker. Parker took in $12 million in compensation in 2018.

American Airlines, which has already detailed its plans to lay off upwards of 20,000 workers, received $5.81 billion through the CARES Act. As of January 2020, American employed over 140,000 workers. However, after months of buyout packages and early retirements, fewer than 100,000 workers are currently employed by the company.

Delta, which started the year with over 90,000 workers, now employs less than 75,000, roughly 15,000 having taken buyouts and early retirement. Despite Delta receiving $5.4 billion in grants and low-interest loans earlier this year, and more than 40,000 workers opting for temporary leaves of absence or reduced schedules since the pandemic began, the airline plans to furlough roughly 1,900 pilots starting today.

Delta has utilized the tax code to claim huge paper losses and receive large refunds from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). In 2018, the carrier paid nothing in federal income taxes on over $5 billion in income, while claiming a $187 million refund. That same year, Delta CEO Ed Bastian received a total compensation package of nearly $15 million.

While no layoffs have been announced yet by Southwest Airlines, which received $3.2 billion in CARES Act money, this is only because large numbers of workers have volunteered to accept early retirement and buyouts. United Airlines, which received $2.75 billion, is planning to cut upwards of 13,000 workers, mostly flight attendants and maintenance crew, after negotiating separately with the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) to avoid furloughing some 2,850 pilots.

Alaska Air Group, which received nearly $1 billion in CARES Act grants, plans to go forward with the firing of 331 workers, today. However, the airline has warned that as many as 4,200 workers could be furloughed in the next month. Like Delta, Alaska paid nothing in federal income taxes in 2018 and received a $5 million refund from the IRS, despite a reported income of over $576 million.

Finally, Hawaiian Holdings, which received $664 million through the CARES Act, indicated in August that about 2,000 workers, including 600 flight attendants, will be laid off beginning today. The airline, which employed 7,447 workers at the beginning of the year, plans to have reduced the workforce to 4,946. Of the layoffs, 1,850 are supposedly voluntary cuts, while 466 are involuntary.

The WSWS spoke with an airline mechanic at the Dallas-Fort Worth airport in Texas, who

commented on the pending layoffs. I have been in aviation for nearly 10 years, he said. Im not a political person, nor do I get into the hype of it. But I gotta say, this is one time that the government has let us down.

He continued: I have family that worked for a major airline and gave all they had to them for over 20 years, but they got booted on the first round. But people who have been there less are still there.

We have been still working every day and have been fortunate to be able to do so. We are on the front lines, putting ourselves as well as our families at risk. The one thing that has been asked is for someone to stand up for us and allow us to continue what we do so people can still feel safe in the air.
(Independent)

Donald Trump shifted course on Wednesday, saying he does not know the white supremacist group known as the Proud Boys after telling them during the first presidential debate to stand back and stand by when asked to condemn all such groups.

"I don't know who the proud boys are, he claimed while leaving the White House for a campaign fundraiser and rally in Minnesota. Youll have to give me a definition.  I can only say they have to stand down, let law enforcement do their work.

Mr Trump for the second consecutive day was given a chance to clearly denounce all white supremacist groups, but he would again not say the words in a way that left no doubt.

Ive always denounced any form. Any form of any of that you, have to denounce, he said. But Joe Biden needs to say something about Antifa.  Now, Antifa is a real problem.  Biden refuses to talk about it.

But he did several times instruct the Proud Boys to stand aside during protests, though he did not denounce the groups racist beliefs.

"Whoever they are, they need to stand down" during protests across the country over perceived racial inequality and police violence against black people, the president said.

The president also told reporters on the executive mansions South Lawn that he has always denounced white racist groups.

A review of his record since taking office suggests otherwise, however.

Following protests organised by white supremacist groups in Charlottesville, Virginia, the president was pressed to condemn the pro-white activists. Instead, he contended there were very fine people on both sides, also referring to counter-protesters, one of whom was killed when a white supremacist drove his car into a crowd.

Law enforcement will do the work more and more as people see how bad this radical liberal Democrat movement is, and law enforcement is going to come back stronger and stronger, he said. But again, I dont know who Proud Boys are, but they have to stand down, let law enforcement do their work.
The country's GST collections grew 4 per cent to a high of Rs 95,480 crore in September, indicating that economic recovery is in sight.

Goods and Services Tax (GST) mop-up in September 2019 stood at Rs 91,916 crore.

The finance ministry in a statement said the gross GST revenue collected in September 2020 is Rs 95,480 crore, out of which Central GST is Rs 17,741 crore, State GST is Rs 23,131 crore, Integrated GST is Rs 47,484 crore (including Rs 22,442 crore collected on import of goods) and cess is Rs 7,124 crore (including Rs 788 crore collected on import of goods).

In September 2020, the tax collections from import of goods and domestic transaction were 102 per cent and 105 per cent, respectively, of the revenues from these sources during the same month last year.

The collections in September 2020 is higher by 10 per cent over August mop up.

The GST revenue in April was Rs 32,172 crore, May (Rs 62,151 crore), June (Rs 90,917 crore), July (Rs 87,422 crore), August (Rs 86,449 crore).

PwC India Leader (Indirect Tax) Pratik Jain said with the festive season coming in, though muted, one would hope that collections would improve further.

Measures such as e-invoicing should also help plug the tax leakage, he added.

Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co partner Rajat Bose said: "The increase in the collection is an encouraging sign for the economy.

It is expected that the revenue collection should continue to improve as we approach the festive season."

Deloitte India senior director M S Mani said a modest increase of 4 per cent in the GST collections compared to the previous year indicates that the economic recovery process is underway, with some key large states also reporting increased collections.

"If the present trends of GST collections continue, we should be hopeful of significant increases in the coming months based on the unlock steps taken in various states and the festival season ahead," Mani added.

EY Tax partner Abhishek Jain said with a significant part of the economy resuming operations and international trade gathering pace, the collections have shown decent growth.

"The increased revenues indicate reinstatement of normalcy in business operations and provides an in general optimistic outlook," Jain added.
LifeWay halts lawsuit against former president Thom Rainer, will seek alternative resolution

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Two days after filing a lawsuit against its former president, Thom Rainer, for allegedly breaching his severance agreement, LifeWay Christian Resources announced Wednesday that it will resolve the dispute in a different manner.

While there have been numerous public misstatements and inaccuracies surrounding this matter, we have been and continue to be hopeful that we may resolve this issue with Dr. Rainer regarding his agreement with LifeWay and his partnership with a competitor, Todd Fannin, chairman of the organizations board of trustees wrote in an email to his colleagues who had planned to meet over disagreements concerning the lawsuit Wednesday.

In lieu of moving forward with litigation, both parties are currently exploring the possibility of an agreed upon resolution of the differences. Our continued prayer is that this will be resolved quickly and amicably, he noted.

In the email cited by the Baptist Press, Fanning said they arrived at the decision after a meeting of the trustee executive committee. An emergency meeting that was scheduled for the full board was postponed to properly update all trustees on the disagreement.

In order to give appropriate time for continued discussions with Dr. Rainer to take place, the executive committee passed a resolution postponing this afternoons trustee meeting. The executive committee is asking trustees and all Southern Baptists to join us in a season of prayer. This period will also allow us to provide full and accurate information to each board member, Fannin wrote.

LifeWays lawsuit against Rainer, which was filed in Williamson County, Tennessee, points to an agreement between Rainer and LifeWay that was reached upon his 2019 retirement that prevented him from doing business with LifeWay's competitors until Oct. 31, 2021. Among competitors listed in the agreement is Tyndale House Publishers, which announced in August that it had reached a multi-book, multi-year agreement with Rainer.

A news release said the partnership would produce books that cover topics vital to a churchs life and health within the coming decades. Each core book is expected to have an accompanying video curriculum, participants' guides, and other ancillary books to empower church leaders and inspire church members.

Rainer explained in a statement to BP that in October 2019, he received a written and amicable release from publishing with LifeWay Christian Resources and spoke with the organizations attorney and had assumed all was well until he received notice of the lawsuit on Monday.

Before learning of the lawsuit, I heard from a LifeWay representative about this concern only one time on September 8, 2020, Rainer said. LifeWays counsel sent me an email asking for an explanation of my relationship with another publisher. I gave a quick and substantive response that same day. Even more, I requested to meet with the board officers in my response. I assumed all was well until the lawsuit was filed yesterday (Monday).

LifeWay argues in the lawsuit that termination of the Publishing Agreement did not release Rainer from the noncompete section of his transition agreement which keeps him as a paid LifeWay employee through Oct. 31, 2020, as chief advisory officer.
Cyprus defied pressure to approve European Union sanctions on Belarus at a leaders summit on Thursday, urging other members of the bloc to also punish Turkey for its oil and gas drilling in the Mediterranean.

Despite friendly elbow bumps as the summit got under way in Brussels, leaders wearing face masks due to the coronavirus pandemic were set to confront Cyprus, one of the EUs smallest countries, to break the deadlock on Belarus sanctions.

This is just inappropriate to have a situation without any reaction, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said of the Aug. 9 presidential election in Belarus that the West and the opposition say was rigged.

While Britain and Canada have imposed sanctions on Minsk to show support for pro-democracy demonstrations there, the impasse in the 27-nation EU, where decisions are taken by unanimity, has cost the bloc credibility, diplomats say.

A draft of the summits final statement said EU leaders condemned unacceptable violence against peaceful protesters in Belarus and did not recognise the election results. It added that restrictive measures should be imposed without delay.

President Alexander Lukashenko has denied his re-election was rigged and called the crisis the result of Western meddling.

Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades made no comment as he arrived on Thursday for the two-day meeting - but won public support from Austrias leader, who chided others for not supporting Nicosia.

Turkey, both a candidate to join the EU candidate and a member of NATO, has slid towards authoritarianism under President Tayyip Erdogan but remains a strategically-located partner that the EU cannot ignore.

The European Union finally has to show President Erdogan where our red lines are, said Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz. This means the termination of enlargement talks, and sanctions.

Earlier in a message marking Cyprus 60th anniversary of independence from Britain on Thursday, Anastasiades was defiant, accusing Turkey of gunboat diplomacy and of violating its maritime shelf in a search for hydrocarbons.

What I expect from the European Council summit is a more concrete and effective stance, to end this gunboat diplomacy, he said. Cyprus wants the EU to approve sanctions on Turkish drilling ships.

Erdogan, meanwhile, sent a letter to all EU leaders except Greece and Cyprus, urging the bloc to treat Ankara fairly and blaming Athens and Nicosia for tensions in contested waters of the Eastern Mediterranean.

In a sign that the diplomatic stand-off is easing at least between Athens and Ankara, NATO announced on Thursday that the two alliance members had set up a military de-confliction mechanism to avoid accidental clashes at sea.

GUARANTEES TO CYPRUS?

Germany has pushed back against the imposition of EU sanctions on Turkey, fearing it will disrupt efforts to cool tensions with Greece.

Chancellor Angela Merkel stressed she was committed to finding a peaceful solution, while French President Emmanuel Macron said EU solidarity with Cyprus was non-negotiable. But neither of the EUs two most powerful leaders suggested a way out of the impasse.

Weakened in foreign policy by Britains exit last January from the EU, the bloc is being pulled in different directions by Frances tough stance on Turkey and Germanys push for dialogue.

The EU sees itself as a beacon of democracy and human rights, eager to sway international events through soft power. But its rule of unanimity for foreign policy decisions and its strained relationship with Turkey have raised questions about the blocs ability to exert influence.

EU diplomats say a possible solution to the standstill on Belarus could involve guarantees to Cyprus of tough sanctions on Turkey in the future if it continues with drilling activities in waters claimed by Cyprus and Greece.

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A jarring video has emerged showing hospital staff in Canada verbally abusing a sick indigenous woman and calling her 'stupid' as she writhes in pain, moments before her death.

Joyce Echaquan, 37, from Manawan, died on Monday, two days after she was admitted to Joliette hospital in Quebec with stomach pains.

During her stay, the mother-of-seven, who was a member of the Atikamekw Indigenous tribe, used her phone to start a Facebook livestream, capturing the disparaging remarks made by hospital workers.

In the footage shared by CBC, nurses can be heard in French calling Echaquan 'stupid as hell,' and suggesting she was only good for sex.

Joyce Echaquan shared a Facebook Live video from hospital that captured the disparaging remarks made by her nurses before she died on Monday

The 37-year-old died two days after she was admitted to Joliette hospital in Quebec with stomach pains

'Are you done acting stupid? Are you done?' one of the nurses says as the woman moans in pain.

'You made some bad choices, my dear,' another nurse said. 'What are your children going to think, seeing you like this?'

'She's good at having sex, more than anything else,' the other nurse adds.

Echaquan's family said the mother had a heart problem and believe she died after she was given too much morphine, according to a GoFundMe page.

The videos sparked a wave of criticism and protest in a country which has a long history of abuse against its indigenous people.

'Like all Quebecers I was shocked by the racism she was subjected to,' Quebec Premier Francois Legault told reporters in Quebec City on Wednesday.

He said a provincial task force on racism would issue recommendations in the coming weeks, and a nurse had been fired over the incident.

The 37-year-old mother of seven, who was a member of the Atikamekw tribe, filmed herself being abuses by hospital nurses as she writhed in pain. Officials on Wednesday said an investigation into her death has been opened

Joyce's husband, Carol Dube and her mother Diane Echaquan Dube (right) attend a vigil in front of the hospital in Joliette, Quebec on Tuesday

Echaquan's death has drawn outrage and protests in the community amid ongoing concerns over treatment of indigenous people in Canada

'I have seven children who no longer have a mother,' Carol Dube, Echaquan's husband, told Radio-Canada on Tuesday.

Echaquan's death comes amid ongoing concerns over treatment of indigenous people in Canada, who make up about five per cent of Canada's nearly 37 million population.

A 2019 Quebec government report found systemic discrimination against indigenous people accessing public services.

In June, a video showing a forceful arrest of a Canadian indigenous leader by Royal Canadian Mounted Police over an incident involving an expired license plate was criticized by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Federal Indigenous Services Minister Marc Miller said Echaquan's death 'is not an isolated event.'

'Justice for Joyce' protests are planned in cities across the country in the coming days, including one in Montreal on Saturday that organizers estimate will draw over a thousand attendees.

'There are many indigenous people that are in the hospital that don't have a telephone to record such a situation,' said Claudette Dumont-Smith, executive director at the Native Women's Association of Canada.
As the country emerged from the fog of Tuesday nights bleak, shambolic presidential debate, pundits, politicians, and viewers at home began calling en masse for stricter measures that would prevent the candidatesspecifically, President Donald Trumpfrom interrupting each other. One remedy put forward is a kill switch that would cut the microphone of a candidate who is speaking out of turn. This would theoretically prevent Trump from trying to buffet future debates with jeers and tirades meant to drown out Biden and the moderator, as was plainly his strategy. CBS reported on Wednesday that the Commission on Presidential Debates, which organizes the events, plans to make changes to the debate format to get candidates to abide by the rules, including cutting off a candidates microphone if they violate the rules.

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Is a mute button all we need to bring some civility to the presidential debates? No, obviously. As a practical matter, even if the presidents microphone had been shut, he still could have continued to interrupt, and it might well have been picked up on Bidens microphone, and it still would have disrupted the proceedings in the hall, Chris Wallace, who moderated Tuesdays debate, told the New York Times on Wednesday. Others have pointed out that a kill switch could open the moderator to accusations of bias or trying to muzzle the candidates, and there have been doubts that Trumps campaign would even agree to such a rule change. (Typically, the campaigns negotiate over the debate rules.) CBS is reporting, though, that the Commission on Presidential Debates is putting its foot down and any new rules would not be subject to negotiation. Its unclear how exactly this will work or whether the interrupting will still be an issue for the next debate, which will be formatted like a town hall. (The third debate, however, was originally planned to have the same format as the first.)

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Still, engaging a kill switch isnt a totally hopeless idea. While there will undoubtedly be some obstacles for getting one set up for the next time Biden and Trump meet, the idea actually has worked in state-level debates. Jill Geisler, the media integrity chair at Loyola UniversityChicagos School of Communication, has hosted a number of Wisconsin senatorial and gubernatorial debates that had mic-cutting policies in place. Campaigns for the likes of Sen. Ron Johnson, Sen. Tammy Baldwin, and Gov. Tony Evers had agreed to the stipulation beforehand. Geisler first requested that Wisconsin Broadcasters Association, which was putting on the debates, implement the measure during the 2014 election cycle. I recognized how easily discourse in TV programmingyou know, cable news or Crossfirecan go off the rails, Geisler said. Candidates sometimes ignore the guardrails in service of making a point.

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In the Wisconsin Broadcasters Associations debates, its typically been up to the tech crew working the soundboard to hit the actual control that will disable the microphone. Geisler has in the past given a cue to the tech crew by telling the candidates twice that their time is up. At that point, the crew knows to silence the mic. The moderators shouldnt have to do that, she said. The moderators got enough other things to do. Indeed, it can become unwieldy if a moderator has to keep switching mics on and off throughout the night while juggling everything else. The crew may also choose to silence the candidates mics when theyre not speaking, but this often just an aesthetic choiceno one wants to hear them coughing or scratching while their opponent is speaking. The candidates also have a countdown clock in front of them so they can manage their own time and avoid an intervention from the moderator.

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Geisler has cut the mic on a candidate once before, when former Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker ran past his time while discussing the minimum wage during his first 2014 debate with challenger Mary Burke. Geisler warned Walker twice that he was over time, but he continued to speak. His mic then abruptly shut off and the moderator was able to talk over him to move the debate forward. Geisler remembers getting some mild criticism on Twitter over the incident but was satisfied overall with how it worked out. You can see the kill switch in action from this clip:

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Though she hasnt had to actually use it much, Geisler says that the very threat of the kill switch and the unflattering optics of having your mic cut helps to keep candidates in line. It is so dramatic on television when a persons lips are flapping and sound isnt coming out, or when the camera leaves them, she said. They realize that there is not a lot else they can do other than abide by the rules or walk off. Looking back at Tuesdays debate, Geisler notes that it may have helped to bring out the kill switch right at the start, when Trump began undermining the debate format. That way, the expectations and consequences wouldve been clear for the rest of the night. She also suggested that it mightve been helpful to train the camera only on the person who was supposed to be speaking, rather than showing them side by side and allowing for more interruption.
Whitney Sewell was described as a sociable, driven women with dreams of being an entrepreneur, loving to plan celebrations for friends and family. She loved her family and looked forward to what the future would bring, but the domestic violence she experienced, that she kept hidden from her loved one, would end in her death.

An awareness walk in Rock Springs Oct. 17 aims to raise awareness to how prevalent domestic violence is in Sweetwater County, while memorializing a recent victim of it.

The Stand for Whitt 5K walk/run takes place noon in downtown Rock Springs, starting and ending at th...
VANCOUVERBritish Columbians are requesting mail-in ballots by the hundreds of thousands as the provincial election nears and the COVID-19 pandemic continues.

The surge in vote-by-mail packages may lead to an election night without a winner in Canadas Pacific province, according to Mario Canseco, president of polling firm Research Co.

If you have a third of the electorate voting by mail, say goodbye to election night. Say goodbye to concession speeches, Canseco said. Its going to take a long time to count all the votes.

As of last week, the province had close to 3.5 million registered voters for the Oct. 24 election. By Wednesday morning, Elections BC had received mail-in ballot requests from 454,000 of them.

By comparison, the province received just 11,000 requests during the 2017 election. The election-night vote count represents the results from election day and the advance polls.

Results of an online survey that Canseco released Monday suggest three in 10 likely voters plan to vote via mail, and he estimates the final total will be around 500,000.

The provinces chief electoral officer, Anton Boegman, is expecting even more. Mail-in ballots typically make up about one per cent of the total but Boegman has suggested that as many as 800,000 mail-in ballots might be requested.

Those ballots will not be counted until 13 days after the election, in order to give Elections BC time to verify those who voted by mail did not also vote in person and other integrity checks.

Elections BC communications director Andrew Watson told the Star it may even take longer this year due to the surge in mail-in ballots: staff counting votes will be hired through Elections BC as per usual but more than in the past will be needed.

There are potential complications with mail-in ballots. Of the 11,268 people who requested packages to enable mail voting in 2017, only 6,517 actually sent their ballots back in time to be counted, said Elections BC.

Then theres the question of write-in ballots, Canseco said. People who request a ballot before nominations in their riding are completed will receive ballots with blank spaces and may have to write the candidates name or the party name. Canseco cautioned that writing the party leaders name makes the ballot invalid.

Another scenario is a voter writing in the name of a party which doesnt have a candidate in that riding. Such ballots would also be considered invalid.

How such errors might affect the results will only be known once the votes are tallied, and that definitely throws a curve ball to anyone wanting to do political analysis, Canseco said.

He said the surge in enthusiasm for mail-in ballots could be another step toward online voting.

Its ultimately one of the side-effects of the pandemic, he said.

On Sept. 21, B.C.s minority NDP government called a snap election nearly a year ahead of the provinces next mandated vote.

The decision has been slammed by political opponents as a posing a danger to public safety during the COVID-19 pandemic, but New Democratic Party Leader John Horgan insists his government could not offer the stability needed as the pandemic continues.

Opponents have accused the NDP of placing a desire for power ahead of public safety as the party enjoys a comfortable lead in recent polls.

Boegman said he is confident the province can hold the election safely with physical-distancing measures at polling places.

B.C. isnt the only province to hold an election during the pandemic. Saskatchewan will head to the polls Oct. 26 and New Brunswick voted on Sept. 14.

Elections NB said its unofficial count of mail-in ballots for Septembers election is currently more than 13,000. (As of Tuesday, one district in the province had yet to file its mail-in ballot results.)

Nearly 50,000 people voted via mail-in ballot in the last federal election, according to Elections Canada, and those votes were tallied on election night.

Cansecos survey results are based on an online study conducted from Sept. 21 to Sept. 23, among 750 likely voters. The data has been statistically weighted according to census figures for age, gender and region in British Columbia. The margin of error  which measures sample variability  is plus or minus 3.6 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.

With files from The Canadian Press

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Reset: Reclaiming the Internet for Civil Society, by Ronald J. Deibert (House of Anansi) If theres a book for these times, its the prescient and timely Massey Lecture being delivered by Ronald J. Deibert, director of the Citizen Lab at the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy. He starts by asking us to look at the device in our hands and then helps us understand how its not only changed our lifestyle but how we think about and approach the world. Then he explores how our new machine-based civilization is linked to politics, its impact on the environment  and how the principle of restraint can be our guide to resetting it and reclaiming it for civil society.

Agatha, by Anne Cathrine Bomann, translated by Caroline Waight (Book*hug) The Canadian release of an international bestseller, it packs a lot of punch in its mere 154 pages. Its beautifully produced with the outline of flowers introducing each new chapter and visually lush inside covers. The narrators voice is lovely, almost soothing, as they get set for retirement but embark on one last course of therapy with a new young patient named Agatha. Its been published in 23 countries  this might be the universal pandemic read we all need.

Brighten The Corner Where You Are, by Carol Bruneau (Vagrant Press) Popular and well-loved East Coast author Bruneau writes the fictional story of Nova Scotia folk art painter Maud Lewis. It might seem a strange choice: so much has been written about her; so much of her life and art has been documented. But what do we really know about her besides her cheery paintings and dire life of poverty As Bruneau writes in an authors note, I suspect the reality of her experience lies in between abject darkness and cheery sunshine in the grey areas of shifting light. Thats the portrait Bruneau sets out to paint.

The Midnight Library, by Matt Haig (HarperAvenue) British author Haig is a positive presence in the world  his book Reasons to Stay Alive about his struggles with depression and about making every day matter provided inspiration for many. The theme or question of what is the best way to live runs through his new book, too, although its not memoir but fiction: Nora, the protagonist, is given the ability to live, through books, as if she had done things differently in her life. Would you have done anything different, if you had the chance to undo your regrets? she asks.

Tell Me My Name, by Erin Ruddy (Dundurn Press) Torontos been a hotbed of commercial and thriller fiction recently; Marissa Stapley, Amy Stuart and others have been hitting international bestseller lists. Into this milieu comes Ruddys debut thriller Tell Me My Name. In cottage country, Ellie and Neil Patterson are set to spend some quality time together  until their violent kidnapping takes them into a living nightmare.
Investigators from the Multnomah County Sheriff's office inspect Kermit Smith's car the day after it blew up at the Columbia Edgewater Country Club. Oregonian
Abu Dhabi-based sovereign wealth fund Mubadala picked up 1.4 % stake in Reliance Retail Ventures (RRVL), a subsidiary of Reliance Industries Limited, for 6,247.5 crore, the company said in a statement.

The investment values Reliance Retail at a pre-money equity value of  4.285 lakh crore. "Mubadalas investment will translate into a 1.40% equity stake in RRVL on a fully diluted basis," RIL stated in its regulatory filing.

This marks the second significant investment by Mubadala in a Reliance Industries subsidiary after the US $1.2 billion investment in Jio Platforms announced earlier this year.

Reliance Retail Limited, a subsidiary of RRVL, operates Indias fastest growing and most profitable retail business serving close to 640 million footfalls across its approximately 12,000 stores nationwide.

Commenting on the investment Mukesh Ambani, Chairman and Managing Director of Reliance Industries, said, I am happy to welcome Mubadala as a valued investor in Reliance Retail Ventures. We value the partnership with a knowledge-rich organization like Mubadala and acknowledge their confidence in our mission to strengthen the core of Indias retail sector  the millions of small retailers, merchants and shopkeepers  through the power of technology. Mubadalas investment and guidance will be an invaluable support in this journey."

Khaldoon Al Mubarak, Managing Director and Group CEO, Mubadala Investment Company, said, "We are pleased to deepen our relationship with Reliance Industries through this investment in Reliance Retail Ventures. Their vision is the inclusive transformation of Indias consumer economy through the power of digitization, creating opportunities and market access for millions of small businesses across the country, and we are committed to supporting the companys continuing development."

Mubadala is the second-biggest state investor in Abu Dhabi after Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, managing about $240 billion in assets.

The transaction is subject to regulatory and other customary approvals.

Morgan Stanley acted as financial advisor to Reliance Retail and Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas and Davis Polk & Wardwell acted as legal counsels.

This is cheque number five for Reliance Retail after Silver Lake's additional 1,875 crore and earlier's 7,500-crore investment for a 1.75% stake, KKR's 5,550-crore investment for a 1.28% stake and General Atlantic's 3,675-crore investment for 0.84% stake.

Reliance has since September raised 24,847.5 crore by selling 5.65% in its retail arm.

Following the sell-down in its digital unit Jio Platforms, Reliance's focus has shifted to retail with the acquisition of Future Group's businesses and investment by global private equity firms/strategic investors.

All 13 investors who had poured in a combined 1.52 lakh crore in Jio Platforms have been offered a chance to explore investing in the retail unit.

Ambani's push to seek investments in its retail business come as the oil-to-telecoms Indian conglomerate has been looking to expand its e-commerce operations to compete against Walmart's Flipkart and Amazon.com's Indian business.

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A former teen beauty queen claims Ghislaine Maxwell tried to recruit her as a masseuse for Jeffrey Epstein while she was working out at a Florida gym when she was just 14.

Molly Skye Brown, now 42, went to the FBI last year to tell her tale of meeting Maxwell, Epstein's alleged madam who is currently jailed on sex trafficking charges, when she was in high school in 1992.

She said the encounter took place at a gym inside a childcare facility in Palm Beach, near the millionaire pedophile's mansion, where she had a part time job that gave her a free membership to the workout facility.

'I was 14, I was starting to get more into modeling, acting, singing and pageants with the expectation of making some scholarship money or grant money to further my education,' Brown, a child rape survivor who hosts a podcast called 'Let's Be Frank', told The Sun.

'I was working at a gym in Palm Beach county in the childcare facility - they gave you a free membership if you worked there two to four hours at the weekend

'I was on the elliptical machine working out, which is by the front window. I was half-naked, a young girl with an exercise outfit on, showing my body. I saw Maxwell walk by and she stopped. I was the only one in there.'

Former teen beauty queen Molly Skye Brown (pictured) claims Ghislaine Maxwell tried to recruit her for Jeffrey Epstein while she was working out at a Florida gym when she was just 14

Brown, now 42, said she reported Maxwell to the FBI last year - nearly 27 years after their encounter at a gym in Palm Beach. She is pictured in two recent photos

Maxwell is currently behind bars on sex trafficking charges. The British socialite is accused of helping recruit and groom dozens of young girls for Epstein (pictured together in 2005)

Brown continued: '[Maxwell] looked me up and down, then came into the gym, walked to the front counter and I could hear her say: "I'm not going to be long, I just want to talk to this girl."'

She said Maxwell then walked up to her and handed her a business card.

'She introduced herself, said she was a modeling scout and asked: Do I do any modeling? I said I did,' Brown recounted.

'She said: "Well, you have the look, how old are you?" I told her my age and she said: "Oh my God, you look so much older, you could easily pass for 18."'

Describing herself at the time when Maxwell approached her, Brown said: 'I was 14, I was starting to get more into modeling, acting, singing and pageants with the expectation of making some scholarship money or grant money to further my education'

Brown is seen singing the National Anthem at a Miami Dolphins game when she was a teen

Brown claimed that Maxwell went on to offer her a masseuse job and promised that she could help the teen get a modeling contract from Victoria's Secret.

But Brown was apprehensive from the start, since she suffered from congenital hip dysplasia and knew she wouldn't be able to walk as a model.

'I've had reconstructive surgery, but my knees are dislocated, I limp and I've already been told by professional agencies that I was never catwalk modeling material,' she said.

'I told Maxwell I really preferred acting, singing and musical theater. She said: "Well, if you change your mind, I have a lot of modeling opportunities."

'Maxwell painted a picture of international traveling, modeling, massages and opportunities with Victoria's Secret,' Brown said.

'It was going in one ear and out the other.'

Brown said she wasn't interested in Maxwell's offer of a Victoria's Secret modeling contract because she had congenital hip dysplasia and knew she wouldn't make it on the catwalk

Nearly 30 years later, Brown sees the experience in a whole new light as Maxwell sits behind bars awaiting trial on charges she helped groom dozens of young girls for Epstein.

'She was just a predator prowling the streets I have no doubt. I've now had others tell me that I'm exactly the type. I fit the bill perfectly,' Brown told the Sun.

She said that she later heard stories about Maxwell prowling around Orlando's Altamonte Mall making similar promises to other young girls.

'Another girlfriend of mine told me that Ghislaine used to come up to scout up there. She'd be roaming the shops, handing out her card. It happened regularly,' Brown said.

Brown hopes that by sharing her story she can help encourage other sexual assault victims to come forward and seek justice.

She said that she reported Maxwell to the FBI last year, but: 'They told me I didn't have a case.'

Dozens of women have accused Epstein of raping them at his many properties around the world, and many have described Maxwell as the millionaire's chief enabler.

Epstein, 66, was facing sex trafficking charges in Manhattan when he killed himself in August 2019 while awaiting trial.

Maxwell, 58, went on the run after Epstein's suicide and was finally arrested at her compound in New Hampshire in July.

She is accused of enticing underage girls to travel for sex, actually having sex with them and Epstein and later lying about it under oath in depositions when she was being sued by Virginia Giuffre Roberts, one of Epstein's accusers who says she had sex with Prince Andrew when she was 17.

Maxwell pleaded not guilty to the charges against her and is being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn until her trial.
Mithun Chakraborty was worried for his family as the the 'only earning member' during the pandemic
Many investors are still learning about the various metrics that can be useful when analysing a stock. This article is for those who would like to learn about Return On Equity (ROE). To keep the lesson grounded in practicality, we'll use ROE to better understand AdEPT Technology Group plc (LON:ADT).

Return on equity or ROE is a key measure used to assess how efficiently a company's management is utilizing the company's capital. In simpler terms, it measures the profitability of a company in relation to shareholder's equity.

Check out our latest analysis for AdEPT Technology Group

How To Calculate Return On Equity?

The formula for ROE is:

Return on Equity = Net Profit (from continuing operations)  Shareholders' Equity

So, based on the above formula, the ROE for AdEPT Technology Group is:

5.4% = UK985k  UK18m (Based on the trailing twelve months to March 2020).

The 'return' is the income the business earned over the last year. So, this means that for every 1 of its shareholder's investments, the company generates a profit of 0.05.

Does AdEPT Technology Group Have A Good ROE?

One simple way to determine if a company has a good return on equity is to compare it to the average for its industry. However, this method is only useful as a rough check, because companies do differ quite a bit within the same industry classification. As is clear from the image below, AdEPT Technology Group has a lower ROE than the average (8.4%) in the Telecom industry.

roe

That certainly isn't ideal. However, a low ROE is not always bad. If the company's debt levels are moderate to low, then there's still a chance that returns can be improved via the use of financial leverage. A company with high debt levels and low ROE is a combination we like to avoid given the risk involved. Our risks dashboard should have the 5 risks we have identified for AdEPT Technology Group.

Why You Should Consider Debt When Looking At ROE

Story continues

Virtually all companies need money to invest in the business, to grow profits. That cash can come from retained earnings, issuing new shares (equity), or debt. In the first two cases, the ROE will capture this use of capital to grow. In the latter case, the use of debt will improve the returns, but will not change the equity. That will make the ROE look better than if no debt was used.

AdEPT Technology Group's Debt And Its 5.4% ROE

AdEPT Technology Group does use a high amount of debt to increase returns. It has a debt to equity ratio of 2.51. Its ROE is quite low, even with the use of significant debt; that's not a good result, in our opinion. Investors should think carefully about how a company might perform if it was unable to borrow so easily, because credit markets do change over time.

Summary

Return on equity is a useful indicator of the ability of a business to generate profits and return them to shareholders. Companies that can achieve high returns on equity without too much debt are generally of good quality. If two companies have the same ROE, then I would generally prefer the one with less debt.

Having said that, while ROE is a useful indicator of business quality, you'll have to look at a whole range of factors to determine the right price to buy a stock. It is important to consider other factors, such as future profit growth -- and how much investment is required going forward. So I think it may be worth checking this free this detailed graph of past earnings, revenue and cash flow.

But note: AdEPT Technology Group 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.

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. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.



Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com.
New York: With 1.3 billion people jostling for space, India has always been a hospitable environment for infectious diseases. And the coronavirus has proved to be no exception. The country now has more than 6 million cases, second only to the United States.

An ambitious study of nearly 85,000 of those cases and nearly 600,000 of their contacts, published on Wednesday (Thursday AEST) in the journal Science, offers important insights not just for India but for other low and middle-income countries.

People wait to be tested for COVID-19 in Hyderabad, India, on Tuesday. Credit:AP

Among the surprises: the contact-tracing study found that children of all ages can become infected and spread it to others  offering compelling evidence on one of the most divisive questions about the virus.

And the report confirmed, as other studies have, that a small number of people are responsible for seeding a vast majority of new infections.
Texas, Oct 2 : The Governor of the US state of Texas - Greg Abbott, has ordered that voters can drop off their mail-in ballots at only one location per county in the lead-up to the presidential election.

Abbott, a Republican, said the move would stop illegal voting. In a statement following the order on Thursday, Abbott cited Covid-19 in calling for strengthening ballot-security protocols, the BBC reported.

"These enhanced security protocols will ensure greater transparency and will help stop attempts at illegal voting." Numerous nationwide and state-level studies over the years have revealed no evidence of major, widespread fraud in postal voting.

Critics have accused Abbott of voter suppression, pointing out that in some cases this means thousands of voters must go to one clerk's office.

Coming weeks before the election, the order requires counties to close any satellite ballot drop-off locations.

Texas is the second most populous US state and it would be a big win for candidates during the November 3 election. The state has been reliably Republican in modern presidential contests.

Many more voters this time around are expected to vote by post or drop off their ballots due to the pandemic.

Mail-in voting protocols differ slightly state by state, but in Texas, eligible early voters can begin dropping off their ballots this month.

Some of the state's largest counties had already set up multiple drop-off sites. Harris County, home to the city of Houston and some four million residents, must now close 11 drop-off locations, the Houston Chronicle reported.

In addition to raising questions about how potentially millions of urban Texans will need to visit a single drop-off site, the move may also be problematic for rural residents, who are spread out across the state - which is also America's second largest by area.

The order goes into effect on Friday.

Texas Democratic chairman Gilberto Hinojosa responded to the announcement by accusing "scared" Republicans of trying to change rules while "on the verge of losing".

Hinojosa added that courts across the US have said it is too late to make changes to election rules, "but our failed Republican leadership will try anyway".

The proclamation by Abbott will cause "widespread confusion and voter suppression", said Harris County clerk Chris Hollins in a statement. Harris County, which encompasses Houston, is the most populous county in the state.

"Multiple drop-off locations have been advertised for weeks," he said. "To force hundreds of thousands of seniors and voters with disabilities to use a single drop-off location... is prejudicial and dangerous." Abbott's order also says voting officials must allow poll watchers to be present at the drop-off site.
Gettyimagesbank



When she first met a mysterious South Korean man who introduced himself as Dr Seong, the woman thought she had found a father figure to help her start a new life after fleeing from her home in North Korea.



It seemed a positive relationship, with Seong paying her for information and reconnecting her with her brother still in North Korea.



But things went bad when Seong and a colleague, identified by his surname Kim, began to sexually abuse her, according to the woman and military prosecutors who indicted Seong, a Defence Intelligence Command (DIC) lieutenant colonel, and Kim, a master sergeant, this month on charges of sexually assaulting and raping the woman.



More than 72% of the 33,700 North Koreans resettled in the South are women and at least a quarter of them encountered sexual violence in the South but less than 10% sought help, the gender equality ministry found in a 2017 survey.



Defectors have complained recently that the government of President Moon Jae-in, who has made improving ties with North Korea a priority, is failing to provide refuge by ignoring rights, stifling political activity and deporting some escapees.



In an interview with Reuters, the woman, who agreed to be identified only by her surname Lee, said the agents abused their power and turned her dream of a new life into a nightmare.



"I was mad at myself, for being unable to resist when they did that to me," she said. "After all, they were the first people I trusted, respected and relied on here."



A lawyer for Seong and Kim did not respond to requests for comment. Defendants in South Korean criminal cases are customarily not identified by their full names.



The defence ministry, which handles public relations for the DIC, declined to comment.



The military's chief prosecutor, Colonel Lee Soo-dong, told Reuters Seong and Kim said they had consensual sexual intercourse with the woman but denied rape.



'ABSOLUTE POWER'



The woman was 26 when she defected in 2014, disillusioned with her job at a military institute and harbouring dreams of South Korea gleaned from television dramas.



It was her link to the institute, as well as the fact her brother still worked there, that apparently made her an attractive asset for South Korean agents.



Seong told her he worked for the government and they developed what she described as a "father-daughter" relationship.



When she pleaded for help after her brother was arrested in North Korea in 2018, while trying to get information that Seong had requested, he and Kim began raping her, she said. The woman later learned North Korean secret police detained her brother. He has not been heard from since.



Lee said the abuse lasted nearly a year and a half and she was pressed to get two abortions and suffered severe distress.



Her lawyer, Jeon Su-mi, described her decision to file a complaint as her #MeToo moment. But the woman said military prosecutors victimised her during the long investigation, suggesting the sex was consensual and pressing her to drop the complaint.



She said at one point, she had to listen to an audio clip recorded by Seong during one alleged rape, which left her suicidal. She said she sought therapy.



Prosecutor Lee said his colleagues never intended to undermine her rights, though he acknowledged they should have been more sensitive. Jeon blamed the system for enabling agents to take advantage of vulnerable defectors.



"The women can't say 'no' because to them, these people have absolute power, like God."



The president's office declined to comment on the woman's case but Moon has called on the security agencies change the way they conduct investigations. (Reuters)


Judy Diaz was sitting in her apartment Thursday when the glass from her patio door suddenly blew out. Moments later, someone was pounding on her front door telling her to get out because the building was on fire.

I was so scared, it was overwhelming, Diaz said.

Diaz, her son and her dog Molly escaped from the apartment before it became completely engulfed in flames. Diaz said she lost everything as she gazed onto the blackened remains of her apartment.

She was one of 50 people who lost their home after a fire tore through the Avistar at the Crest apartment complex, located in the 12600 block of Uhr Lane on the Northeast Side.

San Antonio firefighters were called to the complex around 12:30 p.m. Fire Chief Charles Hood said crews could see heavy smoke from several miles away and immediately called for more resources.

Residents were able to evacuate before there were serious injuries.

Just a few apartments away from Diaz, Ouzman Hosein and his wife were lounging in their living room while his son was participating in a virtual classroom when someone started banging on their door. Hosein looked out to see the breezeway filled with black smoke.

We didnt have time to grab anything, we just ran out of there, he said.

In describing the terrifying ordeal, Hosein said all he could see was a cloud of black smoke, not knowing if he was leading his family to safety or into more danger.

Just thank god someone saw the fire and started telling everyone,Hosein said.

One woman, who was knocking on doors to tell residents to evacuate, suffered smoke inhalation and was treated on the scene. So far, no other injuries have been reported.

It took crews nearly an hour to contain the fire as residents gathered around, watching the building burn. Hood said half of the 36-unit building was damaged with smoke and water.

We are just thankful something like this didnt happen at 2 or 3 a.m., because it could have been much worse. Hood said.

Hood said arson investigators are on scene to determine the cause.
America can be proud of many things: our innovation, generosity and entrepreneurial spirit are unsurpassed. Yet when it comes to our nation understanding one of the greatest gifts ever given to humanitythe Biblewe're moving from dumb to dumber, and it's no laughing matter.
A St. Catharines man has been arrested and charged in relation to a September stabbing in Fort Erie.

Niagara Regional Police said on Sept. 18, officers attended the Big Texas bar and restaurant on Niagara Boulevard for a stabbing.

Police said officers arrived on scene and located a male victim suffering from a stab wound. The victim was taken to an out-of-region hospital in serious but stable condition.

On Wednesday, police identified and arrested a suspect.

Michael J. Velemirovich, 22, is charged with aggravated assault.

In a news release issued Sept. 19, police said they were seeking the publics help to identify two suspects. In a release issued Thursday, police said they are not looking for further suspects.

Police ask anyone with further information to call them at 905-688-4111 ext. 9369.
By Express News Service

JAIPUR: The Rajasthan government has decided to counter the new farm laws after Congress president Sonia Gandhi had asked states ruled by her party to pass legislation to override the Centres farm laws.

The direction by the Congress high command came as protests continued in several states against the laws. PCC chief and Education Minister of Rajasthan, Govind Singh Dotasara remarked, In the cabinet meeting, we have discussed ways of how to bypass the central farm laws. We have asked officials and legal experts to explore whether we should bring our own state law or take some other legal steps. Our government plans to take a decision in accordance with the directives of Congress president Sonia Gandhi.

On Wednesday, the Gehlot government after a meeting of the state Cabinet decided to explore legal ways to oppose the three agriculture-related bills passed to regulate out-of-mandi transactions and provide a framework for contract farming, and the amended Essential Commodities Act. The Rajasthan government is looking for alternatives to bypass the Centre's farm legislation by bringing in its own bills in the state Assembly in the near future.

Besides guarding its turf to limit revenue loss due to off-mandi transactions, the Gehlot government is planning to negate the unacceptable anti-farmer provisions in the agricultural laws. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has already described the new laws as a death sentence for farmers.

The Congress president had asked the Congress-ruled state governments to explore the possibilities to pass laws in their states under Article 254(2) of the Constitution which allows the state legislatures to pass a law to override a Central law. The state laws can be passed on a subject that is concurrent to both the state and the Centre. In such a case, if a state passes a law repugnant to a central law that receives the Presidents assent, it can come into force.

Rajasthan had passed an order last month designating all warehouses of Food Corporation of India (FCI) and state warehousing corporation as mandis, thereby retaining its powers to charge mandi fees. The order was seen by many as a move to neutralise the impact of the Centres ordinance designating all out-of-mandi areas, including godowns, as trade zones where taxes could not be levied.

The central legislation defines a trade area as any area outside of mandis notified under the state Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) Act, including private market yards, direct marketing collection centres, private farmer-consumer market yards managed by persons holding any licence, as well as cold storage, and warehouses notified as market places under the state APMC Acts. The central legislation says the definition of a trade area, where central provisions will apply, will be all areas other than the ones mentioned above.

The Rajasthan government seems to be exploring this loophole in the legislation and has declared all FCI and state warehouses mandis, so that all transactions taking place in these would be eligible for state taxes.
The new feature on Google Recorder will let you edit out bits of audio and share them without an internet connection.

Amongst other helpful features Google announced last evening at the Launch Night In event for the new Pixel 5, there was an announcement made for an update for the Google Recorder app. Available for the Pixel 2 and newer iterations, the new update will make it a lot easier to search through audio files.

The new update allows you to select a snippet of an audio from a recorded clip and you can either share that or remove that from the larger audio file.

Also Read: Google Pixel 5, Pixel 4A 5G smartphones launched: Price, specs and features

You can also search for specific words in a recorded transcript and delete them. So if you have a habit of using words like - Umm, Ah ok or the likes during interviews, you can, theoretically, find them and remove them with this new update.

How the new Google Recorder update is going to work (Google )

Since Recorder automatically transcribes every recording, now you can use those transcripts to edit the audio too. Just highlight a sentence to crop or remove its corresponding audio, Google explained in its blog post.

To improve searching through your transcripts, smart scrolling will automatically mark important words in longer transcripts so you can quickly jump to the sections youre looking for as you scroll, the blog adds.

Also Read: Chromecast with Google TV, Nest Audio speaker launched: Price, specs and more

Google says you will be able to use this feature offline in the same way the companys live English transcription feature works without needed internet access.

The new feature was discussed as a part of the new Pixel 5 but it is going to come to older Pixel devices as well in all likelihood.
By Taryn Luna Los Angeles Times (TNS)

SACRAMENTO, Calif.  With Gov. Gavin Newsoms signature, California became the first state government in the country Wednesday to adopt a law to study and develop proposals for potential reparations to descendants of enslaved people and those impacted by slavery.

Newsom said the new law and bipartisan support for its passage is proving a paradigm that we hope will be resonant all across the United States.

In a year of national protests against racial injustice, state lawmakers approved Assembly Bill 3121 to force the state to begin to confront its racist history and systemic disparities that persist today. Although California entered the Union as a free state in 1850, slavery continued there after the state Constitution outlawed it the previous year. Slavery was abolished by the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution in 1865.

The new law creates a task force to recommend appropriate remedies to the state Legislature and determine who should be eligible to receive compensation, which advocates hope will become a model in a country where movements to make amends for centuries of slavery have failed to gain traction at the federal level.

California has come to terms with many of its issues, but it has yet to come to terms with its role in slavery, said Democratic Assemblywoman Shirley Weber of San Diego, the author of AB 3121. Were talking about really addressing the issues of justice and fairness in this country that we have to address.

The task force, which comprises nine members to be appointed by the governor and legislative leaders, will conduct a sweeping examination of slavery in California and the United States and the lasting consequences of discrimination against freed slaves and their descendants. The group is expected to consider the ways in which slavery has benefitted private and public institutions and led to lasting disparities related to wealth, education, employment, health and incarceration.

The bill states that 4 million African people and their descendants were enslaved in the United States from 1619 to 1865, and the practice was constitutionally approved for more than 75 years.

California has a long history of allowing slavery and discrimination, dating back to before it gained statehood.

Southerners brought slaves to California in 1848 to work in the gold mines during the gold rush, according to the California Historical Society. Though California banned slavery in its constitution in 1849 ahead of joining the Union the following year, loopholes in its legal system allowed slavery and discrimination against freed slaves to continue.

Californias first governor, in his inaugural address, recommended the Legislature ban freed slaves from the state.

Had they been born here, and had acquired rights in consequence, I should not recommend any measure to expel them, Gov. Peter Burnett said to the Legislature in late 1849. They are not now here, except a few in comparison with the numbers that would be here; and the object is to keep them out.

Federal fugitive slave laws compelled citizens and governments to help return those who had escaped slavery to the South. California passed its own fugitive slave law in 1852, which stated that all enslaved people who escaped to or were brought into California before it became a state were considered fugitives and the property of the slave owner from whom they fled or who brought them there to work.

The law was interpreted to allow slave owners to bring enslaved people to California to work and eventually return with them to the South, according to an article published in the Journal of Negro History in 1918. Slave owners also sold those they enslaved if they didnt want to pay for their return travel, or charged them for their freedom.

The California Historical Society also notes that advertisements for the sale of enslaved people appeared in local newspapers.

The law wasnt really enforced in California and so people brought slaves with them to California, said Charles P. Henry, professor emeritus of African American Studies at the University of California, Berkeley.

Until 1863, California also had laws that barred Black people from testifying against white people in court.

Racial discrimination has persisted into more modern times, with issues such as school segregation and busing dividing cities including Los Angeles into the 1970s. Just last year, the Sausalito Marin City School District received the states first desegregation order in 50 years.

White homeowners for decades restricted Black people from living in their neighborhoods under agreements not to sell to Black buyers.

The California Legislature passed a law in 1963 to ban discrimination on the basis of race in the sale or rental of public housing or apartments, but voters overturned it the following year.

It was thrown out so we have had housing segregation, which of course leads to school segregation, Henry said. It leads to not only the absence of living in better neighborhoods, but also having better schools and all the implications that drove from that kind of discrimination. We could go on down the list in terms of criminal justice, et cetera. This history of California has been heavily documented by scholars throughout California and in the nation.

Movements to pay reparations have long existed, but no state has approved such a sweeping law to consider ways to make amends for slavery and its impact.

The state of Florida paid more than $2 million in reparations to survivors of the 1924 Rosewood massacre, in which white mobs destroyed the Black community and killed at least six people. The payments, approved in a 1994 law, included $150,000 to each of nine survivors and $500,000 total for their descendants, some of whom were also eligible for scholarships to cover tuition and fees.

In 1988, Congress approved $20,000 to each survivor of the Japanese American internment camps during World War II. The bill, with a total cost of $1.25 billion, paid nearly 62,000 former internees and residents of the Aleutian Islands who were relocated during the war and their community destroyed.

Through a partnership with a private donor, Virginia in 2004 created college scholarships for state residents who lost access to education when public schools in Prince Edward County and other communities closed in the 1950s and 60s in defiance of a landmark Supreme Court case, Brown vs. Board of Education, which ruled school segregation unconstitutional.

California law says that state reparations would not be considered a replacement for reparations at the federal level, which have failed to advance for over a century.

The first congressional bill to provide pensions to people who had formerly been enslaved was introduced in 1890 and failed to pass. Members of Congress have introduced a resolution to establish a commission to study and develop reparations proposals _ which was used as a model for Webers bill _ in every session since 1989.

Critics of the California law contended that its the federal governments responsibility to provide reparations, which Weber agrees with.

I think it should start at the federal level, but will it? Weber said. The fact that it didnt doesnt mean I need to stand here crying for the next 40, 50 years until it starts at federal level.

Weber said the intent of the California law is for the task force to prioritize potential reparations for African American people who are descendants of enslaved people or those who were impacted by slavery.

The law does not prescribe a form of reparations or dictate how the state should determine who would qualify for compensation, leaving those questions up to the task force to study and recommend. In order for those recommendations to be acted upon, the Legislature would need to pass another bill to approve reparation payments.

Weber said she hopes the task force will consider forms of reparations beyond cash payments.

She referenced a 1865 order by the Union to give freed slaves 40 acres and a mule _ which, as scholar Henry Louis Gates Jr. explains, was later reversed _ as an opportunity to build wealth, but offered more recent ideas about helping with a down payment for a home and ways to provide access to better education among other potential areas of consideration.

When you start looking at the difference between poor whites and poor Blacks, its an enormous wealth gap just among those groups alone, Weber said. So, hopefully, they will look at what policies we put in place, and that they will have a list of policies that they believe the Legislature might want to take up.

The new law calls on the task force to educate the public about the history of slavery in the U.S. and California and the discriminatory policies that came after.

Last year, Newsom apologized to Native Americans for a history of violence, maltreatment and neglect, which included slavery and genocide, and developed a Truth and Healing Council to correct the historical record about the states treatment of Indigenous people and discuss potential reparations.

Although there are many different forms of possible reparations, Henry said a similar agreed-upon set of facts about the treatment of Black people and an apology would be a good start.

I think that this whole notion of truth and reconciliation needs to begin with some recognition of some responsibility and accountability here and until you have that, you cant really talk about sort of any meaningful kinds of reparations, he said.
On college campuses, students used to be able to meet company executives at job fairs, finding mentors, internships or even full-time jobs.

But the coronavirus pandemic changed all that, as institutions have responded to the coronavirus pandemic by pausing visits to campus from recruiters looking for new talent. Meanwhile, other colleges have remained completely empty, with students learning remotely. Its led to a fear that college students, particularly those with fewer resources, are being left behind.

The dilemma got the team at ProMazo - a consulting firm that connects talented college students with corporate work teams - thinking about how they could best help students find connections so they can still launch their careers. It led to the 100,000 Mentor Challenge, which was built with the work of 40 students from 12 different universities over the summer and is kicking off next month.

The goal is to connect 100,000 students with 100,000 mentors through a free app, explained Adam Lies, the director of talent at ProMazo, focusing specifically on the underrepresented population, including students who are minorities, women, LGBTQ, veterans and first-generation.

All of those rich, wonderful connections they could make on campus, theyre now not able to do that so theyre forced into being siloed in terms of their career development, said Coca Astey, the director of the ProMazo National Foundation, the companys nonprofit. We just feel that theres a gap among students and while students can go back and have family connections, there are students, primarily of underrepresented groups, that dont have those contacts and are left with an even bigger gap as to what to do over the next six to 12 to 18 months.

Gaps in education have existed for years and have been exacerbated by the pandemic. Higher education institutions across the country, including in Massachusetts, have been working to address disparities on campus that affect students of color disproportionately.

The goal is to connect 100,000 students with 100,000 mentors through a free app, focusing specifically on students who are minorities, women, LGBTQ, veterans and first-generation. Photo courtesy of ProMazo.

The initiative is launching Oct. 27, which is national mentoring day. So far, students involved with the initiative have been working with ProMazo to reach out to Fortune 500 companies to secure willing professionals to be mentees, and to promote the challenge to students at colleges from the east to west coast. So far, about 15 different companies have pledged their professionals to the program, Lies said.

Gabrielle Aberson, a Boston University sophomore and public relations strategist with the challenge, is among the students involved. Over the summer, the pandemic caused her to lose an internship.

I was really excited to start interning and really figure out what I want to do my life and with COVID, so many things happened. Its not just lost internships, family members, possibilities of getting sick, she said. All my clubs and activities have been canceled, everythings been moved online and people are having a really hard time finding an opportunity for themselves, especially freshmen. Some sophomores like me are trying to figure out ways to get involved but its just so hard.

For Sylvia Cravens, a senior at California State University - Fullerton and another public relations strategist with the challenge, a visit to pick up books on campus amid the pandemic, and as California experiences widespread fires, painted a grim picture.

Going there with not a single person on campus, the sky is orange, it was extremely depressing honestly and it was just lonely, Cravens said. I couldnt even imagine for those students who are underrepresented and maybe have a lower socioeconomic status and cant afford to be at school anymore.

Sylvia Cravens, a senior at California State - Fullerton, said campus was empty and the sky was orange from fires when she picked up books for the semester. Photo by Sylvia Cravens.

For some of the companies, the 100,000 mentor challenge is a way to give back during a global pandemic. But, ProMazo says the initiative will be as beneficial to the mentors.

Companies are also facing some of the same issues as students are, Lies said. Theyre not allowed on campus. A lot of their recruiting has been upended and things look a lot different for companies trying to also recruit young talent as well, so companies do just see this as a way to not just give back to students but also potentially to find new talent to bring in as well.

On the app, students will fill out their backgrounds and interests and an algorithm will match them with prospective mentees.

Instead of the student having to scroll through a thousand different profiles and try to select somebody that they want, they basically will automatically see five different matches, Lies said. From there, students and professionals will rank their matches and communicate through the app to set up initial meetings. Everything is virtual.

ProMazo wants the app to build the connections that will help students find paid opportunities in the future.

Our goal is that some of the connections and the relationships end up moving toward internship offers or full-time, paid opportunities. Our directive with this is just to make as many connections as possible, Lies said.

In the future, ProMazo hopes to do other specified challenges, like connecting 100,000 finance students with professionals in that field, for example.

Related Content:
A Mississippi father has been charged with murder after his 11-month-old daughter was found unresponsive - now investigators are probing whether he played a role in the death of another toddler in his care last year.

An investigation began on September 21 when officers found an unresponsive baby at an apartment in McComb, local police said on Tuesday.

The childs mother, Luvenia Chambers, told officers that she left the baby in the care of the childs father, Vantrease Frazier.

She said the baby was fine when she left for work, the McComb Police Department said in a news release.

When Chambers returned home, she found her daughter, Janiyah Chambers, lying unresponsive in bed, police said.

Vantrease Frazier (left), 39, of McComb, Mississippi, has been charged with murder after his 11-month-old daughter, Janiyah Chambers (right), was found unresponsive in her bed on September 21

Luvenia Chambers, Janiyah's mother, said she left her daughter with her father on September 21 and then left for work

Police said Janiyah was taken to Southwest Regional Medical Center and then transferred to the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson where she was kept in ICU in critical condition until she died September 23

The baby was taken to Southwest Regional Medical Center and then transferred to the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson where she was kept in ICU in critical condition until she died September 23, police said.

That same day, police interviewed Frazier and charged him with murder.

Bond informaton for Frazier was not immediately available. It was unknown if he has an attorney who could speak on his behalf.

Police say Janiyahs brother, Bralyn Blunt, died in a similar manner in May 2019, news outlets reported.

That boy was also left under Fraziers care. That case remains under investigation.

According to public records, Chambers and Frazier previously lived in Chicago, the Clarion Leder reported.

Frazier was arrested three times while living in Chicago. In 2014, he was twice arrested for soliciting unlawful business.

The next year, he was arrested for possession of marijuana.

Anyone with information in the case is asked to contact the McComb Police Department at 601-684-3023.




MOUNTAIN VIEW (dpa-AFX) - Google Inc. (GOOG, GOOGL) said it will pay $1 billion to news publishers for a new Google news initiative.



The tech giant plans to pay publishers to create and curate high-quality content for a new mobile product called 'Google News Showcase'.



'Google News Showcase is a new product that will benefit both publishers and readers: It features the editorial curation of award-winning newsrooms to give readers more insight on the stories that matter, and in the process, helps publishers develop deeper relationships with their audiences,' Google CEO Sundar Pichai said in a blog post.



According to Google, News Showcase is made up of story panels that will appear initially in Google News on Android. The product will launch soon on Google News on iOS, and will come to Google Discover and Search in the future.



These panels will enable participating publishers to package the stories that appear within Google's news products, providing deeper storytelling and more context through features like timelines, bullets and related articles. Other components like video, audio and daily briefings will also be introduced.



Google News Showcase will start rolling out Thursday to readers in Brazil and Germany, and will expand to other countries in the coming months where local frameworks support these partnerships. The countries include India, Belgium and the Netherlands.



Google said it has signed partnerships for News Showcase with nearly 200 leading publications across Germany, Brazil, Argentina, Canada, the U.K. and Australia. The publications include Der Spiegel, Stern, Die Zeit, Folha de S.Paulo, Band and Infobae, alongside regionally and locally significant publications such as El Litoral, GZH, WAZ and SooToday.



Pichai noted that over the last several years, Google has taken steps to support the news industry, from sending 24 billion visits to news websites globally every month, to the Google News Initiative's $300 million commitment, including emergency funding for local publishers globally to help with the impact of COVID-19.



The company has also announced a Digital Growth Program aimed at small and medium-sized publishers to accelerate their business growth.



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

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So it was something like a comfort to see the roundtable portion of the AAFP's annual State Legislative Conference -- the first of the adapted-for-the-pandemic event's four online-only sessions -- unfold this past week pretty much as it would have in a live setting.

Meaning: tales from the front lines of the fight for family medicine, with emphasis on some striking wins alongside candid dissections of pushes that fell short.

About 70 members dialed into the roundtable, an attendance figure not far removed from what we're used to seeing in a fly-in year. They got to witness the Academy recognize 2020's Leadership in State Government Advocacy award winners: the California, New York State and Virginia chapters. And they heard from the Idaho AFP on Medicaid, the Florida AFP on scope of practice, the Colorado AFP on COVID-19 policy and the Iowa AFP on telehealth -- topics in which members had signaled strong advance interest.

The Academy's Commission on Federal and State Policy reviews materials submitted by chapters vying for the awards, which are meant to cite outstanding contributions to further family medicine through state-level legislative accomplishments or policy initiatives.

Virginia's chapter earned the nod with a timely victory: helping to get significant vaccine legislation across the finish line. H.B. 1090 replaces the commonwealth's outdated list of vaccines mandated for attendance at public and private schools with a more open-ended requirement that the Virginia Department of Health maintain "continuous conformity" with CDC immunization standards.

"Little did we know how important this legislation would be," said Emmeline Gasink, M.D., speaking for the chapter during the roundtable. "I said, 'Why not? Let's see how this goes.'"

It went uneasily, given well-organized opposition from anti-vaccination groups. Those groups often -- and incorrectly -- cite federal overreach as a reason to resist immunization mandates, and they did in this case as well. So the chapter deployed a solid counter-strategy: foregrounding the measure as a state-led initiative focused on the health of Virginians.

"We worked diligently with every (general assembly) member on this common-sense piece of legislation," Gasink said. "Lobbying efforts included numerous speakouts and meet-and-greets and countless phone calls to educate lawmakers and ensure that we avoided any perception of being held captive to federal authority."

Political fights about immunization aren't going away, especially with a potential COVID-19 vaccine in development, and that's still true in Virginia. But -- thanks in large part to the Virginia AFP -- H.B. 1090 goes into effect next July 1 and includes state funding to ensure that those who can't afford needed vaccines still have access to them.

For its part, the New York State chapter allied itself with more than 40 partners to defeat another stubborn adversary, the backers of e-cigarette products. After several attempts to ban flavored e-cigarettes by executive order stalled in court, the New York State AFP, together with the Flavors Hook Kids NYC coalition, pushed legislators to enact S.B. 7506. The bill moved fast and has already been enacted. In mid-May, New York halted the sale of all flavored e-cigarettes in the state.

Credit the New York State AFP for that speed. The chapter's presentation to lawmakers of research connecting the use of tobacco and vaping to COVID-19 progression reignited urgency.

"These products get kids hooked on nicotine products and lead to poor health outcomes, making it a public health issue," Barbara Keber, M.D., the chapter's immediate past president, said at the roundtable. Her description of the process echoed the Virginia win. "We had frequent outreach sessions, via grassroots and formal events," she said. "We developed materials and sent memos to legislators and to the governor. We had coalition lobby days in February and March, changing the second one to an all-virtual event."

And the California AFP leveraged its already well-calibrated pursuit of primary care payment reform to respond to COVID-19. The chapter supported a proposal to allow the state's Health and Human Services Agency to unite public and private payers behind physicians transitioning their practices to the patient-centered medical home model. Alongside other organizations, the chapter is in talks with Gov. Gavin Newsom on how to support primary care practice hit hard by COVID-19 while advancing coordination among payers.

Among other issues chapters asked to discuss was Medicaid expansion, a hot policy this year.

"We were there from the beginning, in 2012. I was the coordinator of the effort," said Liz Woodruff, M.A., executive director of the Idaho AFP, who analyzed that long fight for roundtable participants. As happened elsewhere this year, a ballot initiative -- with backing from the state's AFP -- delivered for patients where initial policymaking had failed.

"In 2018, after the IAFP joined a coalition to advise on the ballot proposition, voters passed expansion," Woodruff said. "Two other states did, too, at the same time, but Idaho's had the biggest margin."

Again, victory entailed involvement. Woodruff told the roundtable that the chapter's board president was very active in media while the fight was on, and also lent expertise to panels and met with lawmakers. The chapter, meanwhile, placed physician-written op-eds in newspapers and built coalitions with other groups.

"And I can't even count the number of hearings over the years to which we submitted testimony," she said.

"The lessons learned from Idaho are transferrable to small, conservative states," Eric Waskowicz, manager of the Academy's Center for State Policy -- which organizes the SLC -- said during the roundtable. "The chapter tailored its methods to meet biases against the Affordable Care Act."

Waskowicz broadened that point when we talked the day after the roundtable.

"With no action at the federal level on expanding Medicaid -- and action on other priorities often slow or nonexistent -- state action is not only needed but is often the fastest way to win changes," he said. "Members can be impactful where they are, affecting people they're close to.

"We're going to take the next couple of months to reinforce that with these next SLC sessions, ahead of when most legislatures reconvene in the new year," he added.

Those sessions, like the roundtable, are online-only and free. And if you're a regular SLC-goer, you'll probably see some familiar names on your screen; registration for the remaining events, Waskowicz said, is already strong.

I'm not surprised. At a moment when the national conversation is deafening and a deadly public health crisis continues to slam Americans and threaten physician practices, our members know that their unique voices are necessary -- and that they're most immediately amplified where they live and work.

"When physicians go to their state capitals or meet their elected officials in their precincts, they are advocating for themselves and for their patients," Waskowicz said. "But they're also speaking as job creators and community leaders, and those parts of their identity go further at home sometimes than in D.C., where it's easy to get drowned out by other lobbies. At home in their states, physicians are understood by their representatives as healers and leaders."

You are indeed. Thank you to the award winners and to all who are using the SLC to gather steam for the end of this year and a challenging 2021.

Visit the AAFP State Legislative Conference webpage to register for the next session, which will be held at 2 p.m. ET on Oct. 28 and will be devoted entirely to primary care spend and investment. Look for a recording of the Sept. 23 roundtable on the webpage soon.

Stephanie Quinn is senior vice president of advocacy, practice advancement and policy.
Nigerians have concluded a forty-day prayer-period proclaimed by the countrys Catholic Bishops. In an Independence Day message, the Bishops said Nigeria needs urgent saving.

Paul Samasumo  Vatican City

Africas vast and most populous nation, with a population of more than 200 million attained independence from British colonial rule on 1 October 1960. At 60 years, the Catholic Bishops say the country has nothing much to celebrate for its Diamond anniversary, but its people can make the difference.

In an address to Nigerian clergy, the religious and Catholic faithful, Archbishop Augustine Akubeze called for national introspection and recommitment to spiritual values and the rediscovery of patriotism. The Archbishop is the Metropolitan Ordinary of Benin City and President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN). The address titled, Urgent call to save Nigeria at 60 from total collapse, was released Thursday, Independence Day, in Benin City.

How can we celebrate with so much suffering?

Ordinarily, we as a nation should be rejoicing on this occasion of the diamond jubilee of Nigerias independence. But how can we celebrate when many of our people cannot afford to eat? How can we celebrate when we watch daily, the killings of Nigerians by the insurgents? How can we celebrate when Boko Haram is still holding some of the Chibok girls, and Leah Sharibu is still being held captive for over three years because she refuses to denounce Christ? How can we celebrate when Covid-19 has crippled an already poor Nigerian economy? wondered Archbishop Akubeze.

The killing of Nigerian Christians

Archbishop Akubeze used his address to express gratitude to Nigerians who overwhelmingly responded to the call for forty days of prayer. Nigerians started daily prayers for the country on 22 August and continued till the fortieth day on the 30 September, the eve of independence.

On behalf of the members of the CBCN  I thank everyone who complied to our request for prayers for Nigeria, especially the solidarity prayer after the Angelus for an end to the barbaric killings of Christians in the Northern part of Nigeria. I thank you all in a very special way for prayers offered for Southern Kaduna which has had too many unfortunate cases of killings of innocent people. Prayer remains our most potent weapon as Christians. We encourage all of you to continue to say the prayer for Nigeria in distress. Nigeria is still very much in great distress after 60 years of independence, said the Benin City prelate.

Boko Haram revival?

Apart from economic challenges and corruption, security is what is on everyones mind in Nigeria, at the moment. A resurgent Boko Haram, armed Fulani Herdsmen and criminal gangs kidnapping citizens for ransom have made the lives of Nigerians miserable. When President Muhammadu Buhari assumed office in 2015, all hopes were on him to end the terrorist attacks. For a while, Boko Haram seemed on the verge of defeat. Recent brazen attacks by the insurgents indicate they are anything but a spent force. The 2019 Global Terrorism Index places Nigeria third after Afghanistan and Iraq.

Let your faith be the compass of your decisions

The message of the President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria is not all doom and gloom. He also had words of comfort. Archbishop Akubeze urged Nigerians not to lose hope because those who put their trust in God are never disappointed. The change should start with every Catholic, Christian and Muslim said the Archbishop.

To all Catholics, we say, let your faith be the compass that guides your daily decisions. Let your faith influence the values you promote. If all the more than 22 million Catholics in Nigeria decide to allow themselves to be moved by their faith-based conviction, Nigeria will be transformed. If all the Christians and Muslims in Nigeria truly follow the dictates of their religions, we will have a Nigeria that will be the envy of other nations, challenged Archbishop Akubeze.

Nigerians: A resilient, resourceful people

Archbishop Akubeze has since reaffirmed his faith in the ingenuity of Nigerians as a people.

We know that there are still very many patriotic Nigerians. The fact that we keep hearing of Nigerians who are doing well in academics, sports, and other areas, once they leave Nigeria, tells us that God has wired in the DNA of Nigerians the potential and capacity to be successful, encouraged the Ordinary from Benin City.

President Buhari addresses nation, calls for healing

For his part, President Muhammadu Buhari on the morning of Thursday addressed the nation, in a broadcast, as part of activities commemorating the Independence Day anniversary. The President appealed for national healing.

We need to begin a sincere process of national healing and this anniversary presents a genuine opportunity to eliminate old and outworn perceptions that are always put to test in the lie they always are, Buhari told Nigerians.

President Buhari also spoke about his commitment to ensuring security for all, wish for the enthronement of the rule of law, ensuring accountability of elected representatives, his quest for an improved economy notwithstanding COVID-19 and low oil prices on the global market. As a consequence, Buhari told Nigerians that his government had no choice, but to adjust Petroleum prices upwards.
An employee answers questions from the public near samples of a COVID-19 vaccine produced by Sinopharm subsidiary CNBG that are displayed during a trade fair in Beijing on Sunday, Sept. 6, 2020. AP-Yonhap





Out of 300 vaccine candidates around the world, nine are in phase 3 human trials, according to the



If Chinese vaccines are safe and effective, how many can be made? China is among the world's front-runners in developing Covid-19 vaccines. Its indications that mass production of vaccines is imminent has raised questions about capacity, efficacy and availability.Out of 300 vaccine candidates around the world, nine are in phase 3 human trials, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) . Four of those are being produced in China , by Sinovac Biotech, military-affiliated private firm CanSino Biologics, and state-owned China National Biotec Group (CNBG), which has two different shots in development.





China approved three inactivated vaccines  two by CNBG and another by Sinovac  Uncertainties remain, but Chinese officials are optimistic that the first batch of Covid-19 vaccines will be ready for the general public as early as November or December.China approved three inactivated vaccines  two by CNBG and another by Sinovac  for emergency use in July. Both companies' entry to the mass market is subject to the results of the phase 3 clinical trials.

According to the National Health Commission (NHC), the country's annual capacity for production of Covid-19 vaccines will reach 610 million doses by the end of this year, and is expected to increase to 1 billion doses next year. China's population is estimated at about 1.4 billion.

What do we know about the safety and efficacy of Chinese vaccines?

Although health experts are pressing for transparency as countries race to develop vaccines under political pressure, little has been revealed to the public about the research methodology and trial protocols of the Chinese companies.



China has been administering a domestically produced Covid-19 vaccine candidate to selected groups of workers, including medical staff and border inspection officials, since July. None of those who initially received a dose reported a fever and none had any serious adverse reactions, while preliminary results suggested the protection was effective, according to the NHC.

What will the vaccines cost?



CNBG's vice-president Zhang Yuntao said this month that its vaccines, if approved by the state drug regulator, would be available for CNBG's vice-president Zhang Yuntao said this month that its vaccines, if approved by the state drug regulator, would be available for at most 600 yuan (US$88)  down from the 1,000 yuan suggested in August.





So far the cheapest is the candidate developed by It was not clear whether Zhang was referring to the retail or wholesale price, but the figure is still the highest so far quoted for a vaccine candidate. Pharmaceutical giants AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson have cited lower prices for their vaccine candidates, heavily supported by the US and British governments.So far the cheapest is the candidate developed by Oxford University and AstraZeneca , which will cost about US$4 per dose when sold to the US government. Other countries have deals to buy the vaccine from AstraZeneca, including Britain, whose government has agreed to buy 100 million doses for an undisclosed price.

Other developers including Moderna, Pfizer and Merck have said that they expect a profit from their products.

The Chinese government will set price guidance based on cost and subject to adjustment, with the aim of making vaccines affordable for the public. There is a disparity between urban and rural incomes: China's average annual disposable income in urban areas last year was 42,000 yuan (US$6,150), while in rural areas it was 16,000 yuan. It is not known whether the Chinese government will pay wholly or partly for vaccinating people.

Not everyone in China will need to get vaccinated against Covid-19, according to Gao Fu, director of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suggesting the government has no plan for universal vaccination as yet. The NHC has said vaccination would start with high-risk groups including border agents and medical workers as well as the elderly, pregnant women and children.



Which countries could get Chinese vaccines?

Along with the United States and Russia, China is conspicuously absent from the list of 156 countries the WHO last Monday said were involved in Covax  a WHO programme to ensure fair access to Covid-19 vaccines.

Countries where Chinese vaccine developers are running clinical trials  including the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Peru, Morocco , Turkey, Bangladesh, Brazil and Indonesia  could be among the first recipients.

From Asia to Africa, vaccines have formed part of a charm offensive by China to repair strained ties and bolster engagement.

Chinese President Xi Jinping told the World Health Assembly at its virtual gathering in May that his country's Covid-19 vaccines, when available, would be treated as a "global public good". China has vowed that African countries would be among the first to benefit from an approved vaccine.

It has also said priority would be given to Mekong River countries  Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam  and promised the Philippines would be given quick access, while Latin American and Caribbean nations would receive US$1 billion in loans to buy the vaccines.

What is vaccine diplomacy'?

"China is conducting vaccine diplomacy' by making promises to many countries in the developing world," said Huang Yanzhong, a senior fellow for global health at the Council on Foreign Relations, a New York think tank.

"However, it remains to be seen whether China will work with the US if its vaccine proves effective. Lack of trust between the two is hindering cooperation in public health."

The chief executive of Sinovac, Yin Weidong, has said the company will apply to the US Food and Drug Administration to sell its vaccine in the US if it passes its phase 3 trials. "Our goal is to provide the vaccine to the world, including the US, European Union and others," Yin was quoted by Associated Press as saying.



Will China and the US cooperate on vaccines?

In July, the US' top infectious diseases official Anthony Fauci said it was unlikely the US would use vaccines developed by China or Russia, given their regulatory systems were far more opaque than those in the West.

"Each will prioritise itself," Steve Tsang, director of the China Institute at SOAS University of London, said regarding US-Chinese cooperation. "The most effective way to eradicate the virus is not at the top of the political agenda of any country."

Xi's priority is to retain support in China by ensuring the coronavirus does not wreak further havoc there, Tsang said.





Is vaccine nationalism' a major problem? Huang said lack of trust was expected to affect other Western powers' interest in Chinese-made vaccines, while China may use vaccine availability to punish countries with which it has diplomatic disputes, such as Australia, Canada and India.

Some governments have signed agreements with pharmaceutical manufacturers to supply vaccines to them ahead of other countries.

The Covax initiative, meanwhile, encourages countries to sign up to a deal to make 2 billion doses of vaccines available to poorer countries by the end of 2021.

A small number of wealthy nations representing only 13 per cent of the global population between them have already bought over 51 per cent of the expected vaccine stocks, according to an Oxfam study released last week. China, Brazil, India, Indonesia and Bangladesh  some of the world's most populous countries  were among the countries competing for the remaining 2.8 billion expected doses.

Jonathan Moreno, a professor of medical ethics and health policy at the University of Pennsylvania, said: "Imagine that instead of a virus that originated on Earth, an alien civilisation had dropped it. The whole world would be united against a common enemy. Instead we're scrapping among ourselves."
Investigators work at the scene of the accident following the death of an employee of the U.S. embassy in Ukraine, who was found unconscious by railway tracks in a park in Kyiv, Ukraine on Sept. 30, 2020. (Courtesy of Facebook/Chief of the Department of Communications of Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine Artem Shevchenko/Social Media via Reuters)

US Embassy Employee in Ukraine Found Dead by Railway Tracks

KYIVUkrainian authorities are investigating the death of an employee of the U.S. embassy in Kyiv who was found by railway tracks in a park on Wednesday, and are searching for a man suspected of assaulting her.

Police said the woman was found unconscious with a head injury by a passerby outside the city center, in running gear, and wearing headphones. She was taken to the hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries.

Police are looking for a dark-haired man of 30-40, dressed in dark shorts and a T-shirt. They have opened an investigation into suspected murder but have not ruled out that the death was an accident.

The unconscious woman was admitted to a hospital where she subsequently died. During the examination of the victims belongings, an identity card of an employee of the U.S. Embassy in her name was found, the police said on Facebook.

The embassy said on Facebook, We are heartbroken to report the death of an American member of the U.S. Embassy Kyiv community. Officials from U.S. Embassy Kyiv are currently working with authorities to determine the circumstances of the death.

The Ukrainian foreign ministry was not immediately available for comment. The Armed Forces of Ukraine expressed on Facebook their sincere condolences to Americans at the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv, and their friends and families. The Armed Forces of Ukraine always remember with gratitude and feel the reliable and strategic support of the United States in defense of Ukraines independence and territorial integrity.

May be a crime, Interior Ministry spokesman Artem Shevchenko tweeted in English. But may be an accident too. Body was found on railway in earphones during the jogging.

By Pavel Polityuk and Natalia Zinets. The Epoch Times contributed to this report.
WHO heaps praise on Odisha govt for effective fight against COVID, despite cyclone, migrant influx

India

oi-Oneindia Staff

By Anuj Cariappa

New Delhi, Oct 01: The Odisha government was heaped with praises by the World Health Organisation (WHO) for its effective management of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The praise is noteworthy because the state saw an influx of migrants and also was also struck by cyclone Amphan during the crisis.

"From governance to community resilience: Odisha's response to COVID-19" published on WHO's website praises the Naveen Patnaik led Odisha government for the measures it took to contain the spread of the virus and also effectively manage the patients.

Ganjam Will Be Role Model of COVID management, says CM Naveen Patnaik

"Evacuating the stranded people safely while adhering to social distancing measures was challenging but the state's experience in disaster management helped in managing the situation. Effective governance in collaboration with Panchayati Raj Institutions and community-based response strategy enabled the resilient state to contain the spread of the virus," the article said.

While praising the state's COVID-19 management, the article also highlighted other key features that resulted in the lower number of cases. When the first case was reported on March 15, the state control rooms had been made operational. Capacity building of the district level health officials on preparedness and response activities, and public awareness campaigns on hand washing and respiratory etiquettes were already initiated.

Further the article hailed the decision to lay down a strong governance with an Empowered Group of Ministers for quick decision making. It also note that dedicated teams were set up to ensure social distancing, capacity building, isolation, treatment, and to run awareness campaigns.

Further the state also received praise from Dr. Nihar Ray, sub-regional team leader, Odisha, WHO Country Office for India for setting up the country's first 1,000 bed dedicated COVID-19 hospital with a record time frame of one week. with the Kalinga Institute of Medical Science and SUM Hospital established as model COVID hospitals, along with 30 dedicated district COVID hospitals (DCH) set up in all districts.

Dr. Ray said, "the COVID hospitals operating in partnership mode proved successful in managing the resources under the supervision of authorised medical officer (AMO) of the Government of Odisha."

Naveen Govt formulating new Health Policy and Vison 2025

The health facilities were independently assessed by teams from WHO and United Nations. The results were shared with the authorities concerned, following which the best performing COVID hospitals like Ashwini COVID hospital in Cuttack was recognised for the state of the art quality care.

"By the end of May 2020, the state managed to build a robust infrastructure with a capacity of 22,340 beds in the dedicated COVID health facilities, with an occupancy rate of only 8.86 per cent as of June 28, 2020. The assessment of infection prevention and control (IPC) parameters of COVID and non-COVID hospitals helped in adherence to the IPC protocols in major health facilities," the report said.

The private sector was roped in to expand surveillance, track influenza like illness and and Severe Acute Respiratory Illnesses (SARI). This helped in identifying and isolating risk groups. Further the government also deployed technicians and police personnel in high risk districts.

The state of the art telemedicine services at 41 health institutes to enable patients directly consult with the doctors, and leveraging digital application in monitoring the movement of cases and contacts, identification of containment zones and establishing dedicated call centres to address the public's queries were also undertaken.

The report also said, "the government adopted multi-pronged approaches such as monitoring of migrant's movement, issue of online e-pass, contact tracing, provision of food and accommodation, monitoring health and adherence to safety measures, etc. A dedicated online Grievance Redressal Portal exclusively for migrants was also set up. More than 18,000 temporary medical camps (TMCs) that also served as quarantine centres were set up to accommodate more than 800 000 migrants."

The decentralised approach that was adopted by the government, which included gram panchayats being entrusted with the responsibility of isolating suspect cases worked well in the state of Odisha. Under this the village chief was empowered to make decisions on the basis of area based needs.

A empowered joint team of public health experts, comprising officials from State Health Directorate, medical colleges, WHO, UN agencies, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and Indian Institute of Public Health (IIPH) and "Mentoring Support to program" was initiated. This provided support to various districts in COVID-19 surveillance and containment strategy micro plan implementation and gap analysis.

Further financial help in the form of pension benefits that was provided four months in advance to older adults, disabled and widows under the national and state pension schemes. This was apart from the benefits doled out to encourage corona warriors, people in quarantine centres and vulnerable groups.

Chief Minister, Patnaik also announced a financial package of Rs 50 lakh for all health workers. State trained self-help groups under Mission Shakti through a cascade training model supported by UNICEF and UNFPA.

The report also said that as of June 28, the state has one of the lowest case fatality or death rates in comparison to the international and national figures.

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Thursday, October 1, 2020, 9:59 [IST]
Kentaro Fujiwara from Shiseido: Shanghai is where I realize my dream

From:english.eastday.com | 2020-09-30 11:05

Kentaro Fujiwara, president of Shiseido China, is one of the 50 winners of the Shanghai Magnolia Silver Award this year. Over the past 5 years, he has felt the openness, innovation and inclusiveness of this city everyday, which has deeply attracted him. In his words, Shanghai is the city where he has realized his dreams.





(Kentaro Fujiwara at the awards ceremony.)

Lucky to work in China

Fujiwara joined Shiseido in 1991 and had been working in Germany and South Korea for many years before coming to China. He has not only outstanding management skills, but also rich overseas work experience.

Since Mr. Fujiwara became the general manager of Shiseido China Investment Company in 2015, he has been actively promoting business reforms, making the company regain a competitive advantage in the rapidly changing Chinese cosmetics market. In 2017, Fujiwara became the chief representative of Shiseido China and since then China has become the largest overseas market of this Japanese company.





(Fujiwara has an interview with Eastday.)

Fujiwara believes that he has a deep bond with China, since the name Shiseido in Chinese comes from the Chinese classic I Ching(The Book of Changes)."I have worked and lived in many parts of Europe and Asia, so my career, like my company, integrates East and West."

Im interested in the culture and history of every country I have been to. I think I am very lucky to come to China.

Fighting against virus in Shanghai

Fujiwara has been in Shanghai since the coronavirus pandemic outbreak. He said that the reason to stay here during this time is to ensure the business operation and staff members health. Under his leadership, an anti-epidemic emergency response committee was established, undertaking tasks such as dispatching disinfectants and masks from the Japanese head office.

To help the Chinese, Shiseido has been conducting a series of public welfare activities. For example, a Relay of Love fund was established in February which donated 11 million RMB at the first time. Charitable activities like free hair cutting and collective weddings for the Shanghai Medical Team aiding Hubei were also sponsored. More recently and upcoming are more charitable events, like donating hand care products to female teachers in mountainous areas and guiding female university graduates in career planning and professional attire, which will cover wider areas of China including Chengdu, Guiyang, Beijing, Xian and Shenzhen.





(A relay of love activity)

Fujiwara said that in the short term, the epidemic has indeed had a serious impact on the company's global business. In the Chinese market, sales have declined since late January, but almost all retail stores had resumed operations by the end of March.

Data even shows that in the first half of the year, Shiseido's sales in China reached 6.49 billion yuan, ranking first among all overseas markets; profit in the Chinese market amounted to about 500 million yuan, being the first among all the groups regional branches. The Chinese market has thus become the fastest recovering one among all regions.

Regarding life difficulties admist the pandemic, Fujiwara said the anti-epidemic measures taken by the Shanghai government have comforted him a lot.Even at the worst time of virus spread, people around me were friendly to me. Being a foreigner, I didnt feel lonely in Shanghai due to their friendliness.

Shanghai is where I realized my dream

I came to work in Shanghai in 2015. In 2017, China became Shiseidos largest overseas market, said Fujiwara, who is ambitious to spread the innovation of Shanghai to the world.

Boosted by Fujiwara, more and more investments haves been made in China. In 2017, Shiseido established a Chinese headquarters, forming a comprehensive structure integrating production, marketing, and R&D; in 2019, the China Business Innovation and Investment Representative Office was established. In January this year, the company established a Beauty Innovation Hub in cooperation with WeWork and in March it entered the Shanghai Oriental Beauty Valley, an industrial park of health and beauty companies in Shanghais Fengxian district, becoming the first beauty company to settle there.





(Shiseido signed a contract with the Shanghai Oriental Beauty Valley.)

Due to its outstanding business performance, the company has been honored as one of Shanghais top 100 enterprises for economic contribution and an excellent contributor in the modern service industry.

Fujiwara has also worked for the Shanghai Association of Foreign Investment Enterprises, the Pudong Association of Foreign Investment Enterprises as well as the Pudong Business Federation, where he has promoted Shanghais advantages in infrastructure, administrative efficiency, and business environment to foreign-funded enterprises.





(Fujiwara and his message to Shanghai.)

In his spare time, he has also visited lots of places in Shanghai and learned about the citys history.Shanghai is at the top of the world city rankings. By actively accepting and integrating new cultures, Shanghai keeps nurturing innovation and leading the trend. In this inclusive city, I can live comfortably as a foreigner, and also witness the development here. Shanghai is a city that allows me to realize my dreams!

Story/ Fan Yicheng

Transalation/ Zheng Qian


He has over 25 years of experience in the insurance and claims management industry, with expertise in workers compensation, liability and litigation. Ryan most recently served as Sedgwicks president of casualty. He has a bachelor of science, business administration degree from Drexel University.

Since joining Sedgwick in 2011, Jim has proven himself to be an exceptional leader who has an unwavering commitment to our caring counts philosophy, said Sedgwick CEO Mike Arbour. During Jims tenure as president of casualty operations, our solutions have continued to expand, which is a testament to his skill and ability to drive us toward future growth.

Throughout my time at Sedgwick, it has been an honor to establish meaningful partnerships with our colleagues, clients and many market partners, commented Ryan. Im looking forward to sharing my experiences and continuing to support the needs of Sedgwicks operations across the Americas.
ZEISS Introduces New Solution Enhancements for Procedure Workflows at ESCRS and EURETINA

JENA, Germany, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- ZEISS presents its new solution enhancements to help doctors maximize clinical efficiency and improve patient care - from assessment, diagnosis, to treatment. The latest digital solutions from ZEISS are simple to set up, simple to use, and provide amazing insights across the full spectrum of care.

The ZEISS IOLMaster 700 with Central Topography and the CT LUCIA 621P/PY help optimize the way cataract surgeons work.

With more than 3 million SMILE treatments worldwide, the ZEISS LVC portfolio creates well-proven alternatives to commonly used procedures, enabling surgeons to provide efficient projectable decisions and results with tools such as the ZEISS Nomogram Service.

The future product, FORUM Cloud Viewer, will help doctors review their patients' data from anywhere, anytime, and collaborate with their colleagues for a second opinion.

"ZEISS is excited to showcase why we continue to be one of the leading ophthalmology companies in the world and the only company that can support diagnosis, treatment and management across the full spectrum of care," said Euan S. Thomson, PhD, President of Ophthalmic Devices and Head of the Digital Business Unit for Carl Zeiss Meditec. "ZEISS is also investing in digital solutions to capture and integrate data across clinical workflows to help doctors understand how that data can be used to improve clinical decisions and provide better patient outcomes."

Optimizing the way cataract surgeons work

ZEISS is providing technologies and services to surgeons to enhance the cataract procedure with regards to efficiency, cost effectiveness and simplicity, while maintaining established standards and ensuring excellent patient outcomes. ZEISS has one of the largest portfolios in the industry, covering all workflow steps with high-quality products and services connected through a holistic system.

The IOLMaster 700 with Central Topography (CT) allows surgeons to gain additional information and detect visually relevant asymmetries on central corneal shape with the standard ZEISS IOLMaster 700 measurement, without needing extra measurements, extra hardware, or extra time. The new IOLMaster 700 with CT also features an update to the Barrett Suite with the True-K TK formula allowing up to 12 percent more post-myopic LASIK patients to be within 0.5D compared to the classic K calculation formula1. The update also includes ZEISS EQ Mobile cloud connectivity so doctors can access IOL calculation reports on their mobile device and transfer surgical planning data via the cloud to the operating room.

"Scaling and hues of the ZEISS IOLMaster 700 with Central Topography are optimized for easy and intuitive cornea checks," says Dr. Douglas D. Koch, MD, a co-developer of the Central Topography software feature. "I am amazed at how much information we get from Central Topography."

As an additional workflow enhancement, the CT LUCIA 621P/PY from ZEISS with unique ZEISS optic design is the new-generation aspheric monofocal c-loop IOL in the hydrophobic ZEISS portfolio. The patented aspheric optic design of the ZEISS CT LUCIA device mitigates against potential decentration issues while still providing excellent visual outcomes. It also comes in a new and improved fully preloaded injector that promotes an easy and safe cataract workflow.

"The ZEISS optic of the CT LUCIA 621 makes the lens more forgiving, or less sensitive, when it comes to decentration," said Dr. Andreas F. Borkenstein, MD, co-founder of Borkenstein & Borkenstein, Private Practice at the Clinic of Kreuzschwestern Graz, Austria.

"ZEISS is offering cataract surgeons and patients an improved surgical experience with innovative solutions such as the IOLMaster 700 with Central Topography and the CT LUCIA 621," says Dr. Ludwin Monz, President and CEO of Carl Zeiss Meditec. "We're excited to showcase the entire cataract workflow at ESCRS, demonstrating our commitment to providing customers with a better way of working, so they can provide their patients with specialized care every step of the way."

Growing the refractive surgery business with one of the most comprehensive LVC portfolios

ZEISS offers one of the most comprehensive Laser Vision Correction portfolios in the industry, including PRK, LASIK, minimal invasive lens extraction with SMILE and a treatment option for presbyopic patients with PRESBYOND. The ZEISS portfolio creates a higher vision standard for everyone while enabling surgeons to grow their business and provide broader choices and a viable solution in refractive surgery to any eligible patient.

As the first provider of refractive treatment with minimally invasive lenticule extraction, ZEISS celebrates a new milestone with more than 3 million treated eyes with SMILE, accelerating SMILE treatment market penetration - together with more than 1,100 clinics worldwide. ZEISS has also finished enrollment for its multicenter hyperopia SMILE study for CE certification and has eight sites enrolled for the MEL 90 IDE clinical trial in the U.S.

"In Romania when we say that something is "ZEISS", it means that everything works perfectly! We have a long history working with ZEISS technology and this was the foundation on which we created the PREMIUM market in my country," said Dr. Andrei Filip, MD, PhD, FEBO, cataract and refractive surgeon, and senior ophthalmologist at Ama Optimex Eye Clinic in Bucharest, Romania. "Since we added SMILE and PRESBYOND to our ZEISS portfolio our business is booming, and now we are able to find the right solution for every patient's lifestyle. This is every doctor's dream, isn't it?!"

A recent enhancement to the corneal refractive workflow is the ZEISS Nomogram Service. Nomograms can improve the predictability in Laser Vision Correction, which can lead to higher post-operative uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) and has a direct impact to patient satisfaction. The ZEISS Nomogram Service supports the refractive surgeon in generating their own personal nomogram. The service includes counselling about data requirements, help with data collection, data analysis and analysis debriefing.

Advancing disease detection, management and treatment

By combining high performance OCT and Ultra-widefield imaging solutions with smart software from ZEISS in their retina workflow, specialists can evaluate retinal conditions, visualize management pathways, enhance precision and comfort during surgery, and use integrated data insight to create a better follow-up experience for patients. For early detection and optimization of glaucoma management, doctors can identify glaucoma suspects early, aiding in diagnosing glaucoma, and analyzing trends of disease progression for better glaucoma management using standard-of-care devices throughout their workflow.

When it comes to managing data throughout the clinical workflow, FORUM eye care data management was one of the first ophthalmic data management systems on the market based on the DICOM standard and has changed the way small- and medium-sized practices, as well as hospitals and large clinic groups, approach disease management with its integrated data-driven clinical workplaces. The future product, FORUM Cloud Viewer, will be offered on a flexible subscription basis, tailored to the practice needs. It will help doctors access their patients' data easily and quickly from anywhere, as well as support doctors in delivering better patient care through secure sharing of complex cases with their colleagues.

ZEISS will showcase new solution enhancements for procedure workflows at the ZEISS Ophthalmic Virtual Experience at the ESCRS and EURETINA Spotlight on October 1, 2020.

For more information, visit www.zeiss.com/meditec/

Not all products, services or offers are approved or offered in every market and approved labeling and instructions may vary from one country to another. For country specific product information, see the appropriate country website. Product specifications are subject to change in design and scope of delivery as a result of ongoing technical development.

1Lawless, Michael; Jiang, James Y.; Hodge, Chris; Sutton, Gerard; Roberts, Timothy V.; Barrett, Graham (2020): Total keratometry in intraocular lens power calculations in eyes with previous laser refractive surgery. In: Clinical & experimental ophthalmology 48 (6), S. 749-756.

Brief Profile

Carl Zeiss Meditec AG (ISIN: DE 0005313704), which is listed on the MDAX and TecDAX of the German stock exchange, is one of the world's leading medical technology companies. The Company supplies innovative technologies and application-oriented solutions designed to help doctors improve the quality of life of their patients. The Company offers complete solutions, including implants and consumables, to diagnose and treat eye diseases. The Company creates innovative visualization solutions in the field of microsurgery. With 3,232 employees (as of 30 September 2019) worldwide, the Group generated revenue of 1,459.3m in fiscal year 2018/19 (as of 30 September).



The Group's head office is located in Jena, Germany, and it has subsidiaries in Germany and abroad; more than 50 percent of its employees are based in the USA, Japan, Spain and France. The Center for Application and Research (CARIn) in Bangalore, India and the Carl Zeiss Innovations Center for Research and Development in Shanghai, China, strengthen the Company's presence in these rapidly developing economies. Around 41 percent of Carl Zeiss Meditec AG's shares are in free float. The remaining approx. 59 percent are held by Carl Zeiss AG, one of the world's leading groups in the optical and optoelectronic industries.



For further information visit: www.zeiss.com/med

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By Express News Service

BHUBANESWAR: The Opposition BJP and Congress on Wednesday launched a scathing attack on the BJD Government in the Assembly for its mishandling of the Covid-19 pandemic, which has led to spiralling cases and deaths in the State. They accused the Government of hiding the number of deaths to create a false impression of low fatality rate due to efficient management.

Initiating debate on the admissibility of an adjournment motion on Covid mismanagement, leader of Opposition Pradipta Naik stated the State Government has miserably failed in combating the coronavirus which is spreading rapidly.

The mismanagement was glaring from the beginning when migrant workers started arriving in the State. The local administration allowed the migrants to leave from the temporary medical centres (TMCs) after seven days in violation of the Covid guidelines. This led to rapid spread of infection which is beyond control now, he said.

Alleging massive corruption during procurement of medical equipment, Naik said patients are not getting proper treatment in dedicated Covid hospitals as the health care system has collapsed. He said non-Covid patients are also not getting treatment as hospitals are denying admission.

While Covid patients are dying due to shortage of ICU and ventilators, the BJP leader said 420 out of 567 ventilators provided by the Central Government are gathering dust in Odisha.

Former Minister and BJP MLA Jaynarayana Mishra and Congress MLA Santosh Singh Saluja accused the State Government of suppressing facts on the number of active Covid cases and daily casualty from the public. They further alleged that the Government is not ready to divulge the actual expenses incurred in the TMC and development of facilities in private hospitals for Covid patients.

Leader of Congress legislature party Narsingha Mishra and his party colleague Suresh Kumar Routray also blasted the Government for not revealing details of the Covid situation and the actual number of people dying of the disease.

Dismissing Opposition allegations, the Health Minister Naba Kishore Das said the Covid management in Odisha is far better than other states of the country. The low mortality rate of the State which is 0.38 per cent (pc) as compared to the national mortality rate of 1.6 pc is a pointer to this direction, he added.

He said Covid situation was under control in the State during the lockdown. However, it deteriorated after migrants returned to Odisha. The situation will aggravate if the people do not cooperate with the Government by strictly following the safety protocols.

Responding to the Opposition on the alleged scam in Covid kit procurement, the Minister said the matter is under investigation and whoever is found guilty will be punished as per the law.Not satisfied with the reply of the Minister, the BJP members walked out in protest.
Minn. school district can't ban trans students from entering opposite-sex locker rooms: appeals court

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A school district in Minnesota must allow trans-identified students to use bathrooms and locker rooms consistent with their gender identity, a Minnesota appeals court ruled Monday.

The Minnesota Court of Appeals ruled in favor of the parents of a biological female high school student who identifies as a boy. The family sued the Anoka-Hennepin School District in 2019 and alleged that the student (identified in legal documents as N.H.) was required to use a separate locker room when she participated on the boys' swim team.

The court ruled that locker room segregation based on sex is a violation of the Minnesota Human Rights Act, which bars discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, among other identifiers, including race and religion. Thus, the female student will be allowed to enter the boys' locker rooms and showers.

N.H. identifies as male, has socially transitioned to male, and lives as male. Others also identify [her] as male and treat [her] as male, Judge Peter Reyes, who was appointed by Democratic Gov. Mark Dayton in 2014, stated in the majority opinion.

Based on this record, we conclude that N.H. is similarly situated to [her] peers because [she], like [her] peers, sought to use a locker room that corresponded with [her] gender identity.

The school district had argued that a district court erred when it denied its motion to dismiss the lawsuit. However, the court upheld the lower courts ruling.

A transgender high-school student who is denied use of a locker room that is available to students of the gender with which the student identifies and to which the student has socially transitioned states a claim upon which relief can be granted of sexual-orientation discrimination, the ruling states.

The majority opinion added that students should not be required to shop among schools and districts to obtain a discrimination-free education.

In dissent, Judge Matthew Johnson, who was appointed in 2008 by Republican Tim Pawlenty, contended that the school districts argument is consistent with this courts case law.

This court has held that men and women are not similarly situated for purposes of an equal-protection claim if governmental action legitimately depends on differences in their respective anatomies, he wrote, adding that N.H. was not similarly situated in all relevant respects in comparison to the cisgender boys in [her] gym class.

Anoka-Hennepin Schools spokesperson Jim Skelly said in a statement shared by The Associated Press that the district will review the decision and weigh its options on whether to move forward with its appeal.

The districts top priority is maintaining a learning environment that is safe, secure, and free from discrimination, and its decision will be guided by those values, Skelly stressed.

The Minnesota Department of Human Rights, which intervened in the lawsuit against the school district, praised the ruling.



This decision means that schools are now safer and more welcoming for transgender and gender nonconforming students across Minnesota, Human Rights Commissioner Irina Vaynerman said in a statement. Our state was the first in the nation to prohibit gender identity discrimination. Todays decision honors that legacy and continues to build a more equitable and inclusive Minnesota.

According to legal documents, N.H. used the boys' locker room without issue after she joined the boys swim team at Coon Rapids High School during the 2015-2016 school year. But the next year, the district required her to use a separate locker room and threatened discipline if she did not.

I never want any student to experience the discrimination and cruelty I experienced from the adults at my school," N.H. said in a statement released by the American Civil Liberties Union of Minnesota. "It means a lot to see that courts protect transgender students like me. Today's decision makes it very clear that segregating trans students doesn't just dehumanize us, it violates our legal rights."

Several legal battles nationwide have been fought in relation to school bathroom and locker room policies.

While some argue that preventing trans-identified students from accessing facilities that correspond to their preferred gender identity is discriminatory, critics contend that such trans-inclusive policies infringe on the privacy rights of other students who might not feel comfortable undressing around a member of the opposite sex.

Last month, the U.S. 4th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in favor of a trans-identified high school student in Virginia who has been at the center of a lengthy legal battle that was remanded back to the lower courts by the U.S. Supreme Court in 2017.
The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has issued fresh workplace guidelines for industry and establishments in a bid to reduce the impact of coronavirus on businesses.

As per the document, 'COVID-19 safe workplace guidelines for industry and establishment' framed by the Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC)', employers have been suggested to deter employees from taking cigarette breaks as they are "social-distancing disruptors".

"Ban the use of Gutka, tobacco, Paan Masala, and cigarettes at the workplace. Ban spitting as it may increase disease transmission. Prohibit any cigarettes break," the ESIC guidelines said.

Additionally, it said the companies must avoid central air conditioning and instead use individual air conditioners with HEPA filters. The ESIC guidelines also suggested increasing outdoor air ventilation in air conditioners by opening doors and windows or instaling exhausts.

Further, the revised notice said that " Every person (with or without symptoms) in the workplace should be considered a potential source of infection. All the risk factors, including those associated with various worksites and the task workers, perform at those sites must be taken into account.

The ministry guidelines have asked companies to allow visitors inside the workplace with prior appointments only. Also, companies must avoid biometric attendance systems and adopt calibrated, infrared, and no-touch thermometers at the entrances of the facility to measure the temperature of all visitors and all workers.

The health ministry has recommended companies to disallow workers/employees from sharing pens, phones, computers, or other work tools and pieces of equipment.

Besides, the guidelines said to remove newspapers, magazine and other paper materials which might come in contact amongst individuals.

The guidelines also encourage offices to continue flexible worksites. For instance, work from home, teleworking, and flexible work hours like staggered shifts should continue to reduce the number of employees reporting at the same time.

Also read: Silver Lake to invest additional Rs 1,875 crore in Reliance Retail

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White House chief of staff Mark Meadows in the East Room of the White House in Washington, on Sept. 23, 2020. (Joshua Roberts/Getty Images)

White House Stimulus Proposal Goes Over $1.5 Trillion With $20 Billion for Airlines

The Trump administration has proposed including a $20 billion extension in aid for the battered airline industry in a new stimulus proposal to House Democrats worth over $1.5 trillion, White House chief of staff Mark Meadows said on Wednesday.

Theres $20 billion in the most recent proposal for the airlines that would give them a six month extension, Meadows told reporters aboard Air Force One, noting that the industry was in urgent need of support.

American Airlines and United Airlines, two of the largest U.S. carriers, said they were beginning furloughs of over 32,000 workers on Thursday as hopes faded for a last-minute bailout from Washington. U.S. airlines have been pleading for another $25 billion in payroll support to protect jobs for a further six months after the current package, which banned furloughs, expired at midnight EDT.

Coronavirus relief talks between the White House and House Democrats had stalled in large part over the price tag, with Democrats seeking $2.2 trillion and the White House staying firm at $1.5 trillion.

Meadows declined to provide the total value of the White Houses latest proposal but said the figure is certainly above the $1.5 trillion that has been articulated to date.

As you get above $1.5 trillion, it gets extremely difficult to justify based on the facts, he cautioned, explicitly stating that $2 trillion was too much. If it starts with a 2, its going to be a real problem, he added.

Speaking on a flight to Washington from the swing state of Minnesota where President Donald Trump had headlined a rally ahead of the Nov. 3 presidential election, Meadows said he was hopeful talks will continue with Democrats on Thursday.

Meadows also told reporters that a stop-gap spending bill approved by the Republican-controlled Senate and the Democratically-led House to fund the government through Dec. 11 had been received by the White House.

Trump signed the bill in the early hours of Thursday.

By Alexandra Alper
Many older voters are concerned about how to vote safely because of the pandemic, and one of the easiest ways to stay safe is to vote from home by requesting an absentee ballot. Thus, absentee voting allows high-risk voters to make their voices heard from the safety of their kitchen table.

Furthermore, under Wisconsin law, you don't need a reason to vote absentee. Therefore, voting by absentee ballot is a small step that Wisconsinites can safely exercise their civic duty without endangering themselves or others.

You can complete your application either online or by regular mail. However, online is very convenient. The City of West Allis created a step-by-step video to help voters register online, https://youtu.be/ByOH4qNxnME.

Option two; you can call City, Town, or Village Hall to request an absentee ballot form. It requires you to provide personal ID, the signature and address of a witness. Witnesses must be adult U.S. citizens (a member of the family can be your witness). The complete form must be delivered either by dropping in a community drop-box established by your local municipal clerk, your clerk's office or via U.S. Postal Service.

After receiving your absentee ballot, complete your voting and mail the ballot as soon as possible.

Remember, your absentee ballot must be returned to your local polling place by 8 p.m. on Nov. 3.

Paul and Phyllis Pham, Mount Pleasant

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Former bikie Shane Bowden has been fined $750 for breaching coronavirus quarantine travelling from Victoria to Queensland.

The 48-year-old travelled from Tullamarine Airport in Melbourne on August 31 but provided false information on his border declaration.

He returned to Queensland to recover from infected gunshot wounds after being targeted in a drive-by shooting on July 1.

Former bikie Shane Bowden has been fined $750 for breaching coronavirus quarantine travelling from Victoria to Queensland

He is on a waiting list for an operation to reattach his knee cap to his knee.

Bowden appeared in Southport Magistrate Court on Thursday wearing a leg brace as he pleaded guilty to one count of providing false or misleading documents under the Public Health Act.

He was diagnosed with coronavirus while in hospital in Melbourne awaiting surgery, but was cleared by Victorian authorities on August 21.

On August 22 he tested positive to a second test but was not infectious.

The court was told Bowden was taking strong painkillers when he returned to Queensland on August 31 and was confused by the questions on the declaration form.

Magistrate Joan White accepted the questions on the form were not clearly worded.

Bowden travelled from Tullamarine Airport in Melbourne on August 31 but provided false information on his border declaration

'People have to do the right thing but I can understand from the submissions made on your behalf that it was somewhat confusing for you and I can see exactly why,' Ms White said.

'I can understand how he ended up confused, I find it confusing.'

She fined Bowden $750 - significantly less than the maximum penalty of $13,345.

Bowden was once part of the Finks 'terror team' and jailed over the Gold Coast's 'ballroom blitz' brawl in which three people were shot and two stabbed in 2006.
There was no intention to keep anyone in the dark about problems with the Leaving Cert coding errors, Green Party leader Eamon Ryan has told the Dail as the Government was denounced as a fiasco factory.

The numbers affected by the grading anomaly would probably be fewer than the 6,500 students indicated, Mr Ryan added.

We will make sure that there's no student who isn't able to avail of a course that they should have been able to access, he pledged, adding that the problem had arisen from just four characters being different in a 50,000-line code.

Mr Ryan, taking leaders questions in the Dail, said: We have to make sure, first and foremost, that students do not lose out, and we commit to doing that, in whatever way and in every way possible.

Read More

But Donnchadh O Laoghaire, Sinn Fein spokesman on Education, told him: People were kept in the dark  and for over a week. There was a meeting of the Cabinet and it wasnt discussed. I cant make head nor tail of it. Surely such an important matter should be discussed.

Mr Ryan said the Government was still assessing the scale and implications of the problem at the time.

The calculated-grades crisis now engulfing the Government arose when a person running the code for the Applied Leaving Cert saw a slight variation in expected results, Mr Ryan said.

The unnamed architect of the algorithm previously worked with Education Canada and had specific experience with the Irish education system, he said.

On seeing the variation that occurred, they contacted the Department of Education late on Tuesday week last. The Minister for Education and the Taoiseach were only informed on Wednesday morning that there was a difficulty, he said.

The CAO (Central Applications Office) then issued its second round of offers on that day, because it wasn't clear that this was going to happen or the effect it would have on the CAO process.

Mr Ryan had learned of it on the Friday, when it was still a complex issue under investigation, and the three Coalition leaders had discussed it at length last Monday, he said. There was to have been a press conference at 4pm on Wednesday, but the matter had first arisen in the Dail.

Mr Ryan said his understanding as to why the calculated grades error was not noticed was because actually the predicted results were very close to what was going to be expected.

There was a variance from historic result patterns by about 4 per cent, he told the Dail, and all the analysis that have been done by all those different tiers of State expertise and officials came to the conclusion that that actually was roughly what we'd expect.

He said: There wasn't any other variation that would in any way indicate that this coding error had been made, and that the system was wrongly counting the bottom two of the Junior Cert results, rather than the top next two after a students scores in English, Irish and Maths.

When the person who actually was responsible for that (system) was themselves running the Applied Leaving Cert results, there was a variation that he couldn't quite understand, Mr Ryan said.

He then went and looked right through the 50,000 coding lines of code - and I suppose he had certain expertise having written a lot of it - to actually find out what that was. And he reported back.

The variation was not categorised in any one area, or any one school, or in any one subject. It didn't actually lead to a significant change from what results otherwise would be still appropriate.

But he pledged: We will make sure there is no student who will be disadvantaged and that they are able to get the course that they should have got.

Mr O Laoghaire said the Government decided on this model and had hired the company. This smacks of serious incompetence, he said.

He added that the Minister had not explained why it was not raised at Cabinet on Tuesday, with the Higher Education Authority only learning of the mess yesterday.

Mr Ryan said the three-leader meeting had decided to allow Education Minister Norma Foley and Third Level Minister Simon Harris to continue to investigate the situation.

Mr O Laoghaire said students were entitled to expect standards in the Department of Education and in the Government that matched their own.

They had instead seen an extraordinary mess, he said, while the events of the last week had offered a striking lack of clarity of who knew what and when.

This is not academic. This affects the lives of students. It is likely there are 1,000 students who have missed out from courses due to these errors, he said.

The minister is saying it will be a few days before the full numbers are known. Many will have taken off lower-choice courses in cities and counties. They will have paid registration fees and they will have paid deposits to landlords. They dont know whether they are coming or going.

Peadar Toibin, Aontu TD for Meath West, said the predicted grades was a dogs dinner and the latest piece of chaos from the fiasco factory that is Government.

Extra places were going to be created for students in a third-level sector that is already on its knees, with a 500 million funding deficit, he said.

Mr Toibin said that many students would be left in limbo, and that this would lead to new legal challenges.

Minster Ryan said the Government was ultimately responsible but that officials had done their best in a really difficult situation.

He said that the work now is to address an error that is unfortunate. It was recognised by the person involved.

But Mr Toibin said the Minister would be taking questions on the issue at 9pm, in the graveyard shift, with the Government appearing to hope that many TDs would have already headed for the hills.

That doesnt look like a Government with its hands up, he said.
The exercise was a step forward in the development of asymmetric capabilities to counter hybrid actions.

Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Colonel-General Ruslan Khomchak says the participation of NATO member states' armed forces in Ukraine's Joint Efforts 2020 military drills has become an important deterrent to the enemy's aggressive intentions.

Khomchak announced this at a meeting of army chiefs of the Visegrad Group and Ukraine, which took place in Warsaw (Poland), the media relations office of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said.

Read alsoU.S. warplanes fly over Ukraine in show of support (Photo, video)

"The participation of representatives of NATO countries' armed forces in the Joint Efforts 2020 command and staff drills has become an important deterrent to the aggressive intentions by the enemy," he said.

"In turn, the Ukrainian headquarters and divisions were able to work out the controls with the J ['Joint'] structure and compatibility with Western partners."

According to him, the Joint Efforts 2020 exercise allowed the participants to hammer out a scenario for the country's comprehensive defense, which provides for the use of the military and civilian potential of the state to repel aggression.

Also, Khomchak emphasized, this exercise was a step forward in the development of asymmetric capabilities to counter the enemy's hybrid actions.

Joint Efforts 2020: Facts
KYIV, Ukraine - Wildfires in eastern Ukraine have killed at least nine people and detonated unexploded ordnance fired during fighting between Russia-backed separatists and Ukrainian forces, authorities said Thursday.

About 11,000 hectares (27,000 acres) were on fire in the Luhansk region, the state emergencies service said.

In the town of Stanichna Luhanska, flames engulfed houses on two streets, one of which had leftover shells from fighting in 2014-16, the local administration said on Facebook. Stanichna Luhanska is just outside the rebel-controlled city of Luhansk.

The emergencies service said nine people have died in the fires, including one employee of the state forestry service. It say about 250 residences have been destroyed.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said in a statement that some of the blazes may have been set off by artillery fire from the rebel-held territory.

Heavy fighting between separatist rebels and Ukrainian forces broke out in eastern Ukraine in 2014. Although the fighting has died down significantly, sporadic clashes are still reported.

Read more about:
Yet deferring the election, and for a full year, simply was a sound decision.

Another wave of coronavirus infections (which would be Hong Kongs fourth) could strike later this fall or in the winter, and, say, a six-month deferral might have required another six months delay  a move that would confuse the public and no doubt be decried as a lack of foresight on the Hong Kong governments part.

Some have asked why special arrangements couldnt be made to hold the election on schedule, when at just the time that the voting was supposed to take place, the government managed to conduct a citywide coronavirus-testing program. The plain answer is that the Electoral Affairs Commission, an independent body, made no recommendations for minimizing health risks to the nearly 4.5 million voters expected to cast ballots on a single day, despite various suggestions from pro-establishment parties to allow for early voting, mail-in voting and voting outside Hong Kong, and to extend voting hours.

Then the coronavirus-detection program itself came under attack.

By the end of the two-week testing drive, on Sept. 14, 1.78 million residents had been screened, about 24 percent of the citys population. Was this a high level of participation? Or was it low  as some critics claimed, citing that as yet more proof of the communitys lack of trust in the authorities?

Mass testing was the responsible thing to do.

Hong Kong, despite being densely populated and an international business and travel hub, has managed relatively well in fighting Covid-19, without ever mandating a complete lockdown. As of Oct. 1, a total of 5,088 confirmed or probable cases of infection and 105 deaths had been reported, in a city of 7.5 million people.

Yet pro-democracy activists seized on the testing program, too, claiming that the privacy of test-takers DNA was at risk, especially since some medical teams administering or analyzing the tests were brought in from the mainland.

The Hong Kong government has not been able to resolve in recent years any of the citys main challenges, let alone restore public trust or win back hearts and minds. But these problems are not entirely the doing of Mrs. Lams government: Previous administrations failed to deal with them in any meaningful way.

This wariness is one reason that the doubts and fears being expressed today about the impact of Chinas recent national security law in Hong Kong can only diminish over time, as the new law is tested in court.
Can Dr. Michelle Lee give new patient Mikki her smile back?

In this exclusive clip from Monday, Oct. 5's all-new Dr. 90210, the famed plastic surgeon hears all about Mikki's insecurities surrounding her smile.

"I have an issue with my smile," the Arizona resident starts off. "My top lip curls up like this."

In a close up, the Dr. 90210 camera shows that Mikki's smile displays more of her gums than she'd like.

She continues, "It's just a lot of gum. Normally, I have pretty full lips, but right when I smile that top lip is gone."

Per the new patient, she makes an active effort to not smile or to hide her smile from others.

Mikki's husband Juan confirms her insecurities, noting that she has him speak to strangers for her.

"It gets so bad that, when we go to the grocery store, she has me talk to the cashiers every time," he adds. "She doesn't even want to talk to them for the fact that she doesn't want to smile."

Meet the Dr. 90210 Cast

Amid hearing the case, Dr. Michelle assures Mikki that she first noticed her "beautiful face and personality."

The Dr. 90210 surgeon further expresses, "I don't think of, 'Oh my gosh! Look at all her gums.' It's showing two more millimeters than what it's supposed to show."

Despite Dr. Michelle's kind words, Mikki reveals she's still crippled by her insecurity. With dreams of becoming a YouTube make-up guru, Mikki hates that her smile is holding her back.

"I just want to be me," Mikki concludes. "I'm so tired of holding myself back."

Watch the consultation in the exclusive clip above.
The administration in Hathras has imposed prohibitory orders in the district for maintaining law and order.

IMAGE: Police checking at Ghaziabad-Delhi border in Ghaziabad, Thursday. Some political leaders are expected go to Hathras to meet the family of the rape victim. Photograph: Vijay Verma/PTI Photo

"Section 144 (of the Code of Criminal Procedure) has been imposed in the district. It will be in force till October 31," District Magistrate P K Lakshkar said on Thursday.

The administration has also ordered to seal the borders of Hathras district.

The decision was taken to maintain law and order in the district, which hogged limelight after a 19-year-old Dalit gang rape victim from the district died at a Delhi hospital on Tuesday.

Various organisations and political parties have made it an issue and their leaders have either visited or are trying to reach the victim's village.

Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Rahul Gandhi will be visiting Hathras to meet the family members of the victim.

"Priyanka and Rahul will be visiting Hathras to meet the family members of the victim," Uttar Pradesh Congress media coordinator Lalan Kumar said, adding that a large number of party workers have gathered at Ghaziabad to receive the two leaders.

A 19-year-old Dalit woman was allegedly raped by four upper-caste men in Hathras on September 14 and referred to the Safdarjung hospital in Delhi on Monday with spinal cord injuries, paralysis and cuts in her tongue.

She died around 3 am on Tuesday.
The senior Health Department official who extended Melbourne's curfew has openly disagreed with Premier Daniel Andrews publicly stated reasons for implementing the restriction.

Associate Professor Michelle Giles, who is being sued in her capacity as the state's former deputy public health commander, told the Supreme Court on Thursday that the curfew was brought in for health reasons, not enforcement.

Premier Daniel Andrews. Credit:Getty Images

On September 9, Mr Andrews was defiant in his defence of the curfew, saying the decision to impose it was "ultimately made by me".

"It's not a matter for [Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton], that's not health advice, thats about achieving a health outcome ... Police then say, 'We need rules we can enforce.' These are decisions ultimately made by me."
Julia Coffey, owner of Mycoterra Farm, a mushroom grower in South Deerfield, started 2020 with 50 restaurant accounts and deals to provide farm-fresh fungi to Smith College, Mount Holyoke College and others.

Then came the coronavirus pandemic and shutdowns of restaurants and college dining halls  kitchens that are only starting to reopen seven months later.

At the very beginning of March, all of the sudden we saw 80% of our income stream shutting down, she said.

So she got busy founding Mass Food Delivery, which now delivers farm-fresh food directly to about 4,000 households in Massachusetts.

Basically, the food delivery business saved the mushroom farm, she said Wednesday by phone. I anticipated having to shut down the mushroom farm.

But now she can sell all she can produce, along with food grown by other local farms.

And its a business she can grow with $447,563 in grant money announced Wednesday by the state of Massachusetts.

The money will go to purchase refrigeration, storage and transportation equipment, and help develop a commercial kitchen to expand food storage capacity for a variety of crops and increase capacity for winter storage.

Its part of $5.5 million in grants addressing urgent food insecurity for Massachusetts residents as a result of the pandemic.

This funding is the third round of a new $36 million Food Security Infrastructure Grant Program.

As families across the Commonwealth continue to adjust to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is essential that we support the Commonwealths food supply chain and increase access to fresh, local food, Gov. Charlie Baker said in a statement. We are pleased to build on the success of this grant program, which is making critical investments that strengthen our local food system and ensuring its resilience to future challenges.

5/20/2020 -Hadley- These are some of the products produced by Mapleline Farm. Local dairy farms like Mapleline are dealing with a changing marketplace landscape due to the COVID-19 pandemic. (Don Treeger / The Republican)

Another local recipient was Mapleline Farm in Hadley. According to the state news release, the farm will receive two grants: $115,991 will purchase a refrigerated truck for deliveries around Massachusetts and $163,822 will upgrade Maplelines milk processing equipment.

Among the projects is replacing bottling equipment that dates to the 1950s, said Jessica Dizek, a co-owner of Mapleline.

She said demand for Mapleline products is expanding as restaurants and college cafeterias reopen. The fall and winter see more demand for dairy as well because folks start cooking more full meals.

People are still seeking out local products, she said.

Sales of half-gallon and gallon containers are up as more people eat at home. Fewer schools are buying little containers of milk.

This pandemic has been so unpredictable for us, she said.

Other local recipients include:
A group of 40 workers at San Francisco electric scooter startup Spin voted Tuesday to ratify their first union contract on after joining the Teamsters Local 665 last year.

The change comes as the company, owned by Ford, is planning to expand its fleet of scooters across San Francisco by 50% as public transportation in the city has seen falling ridership and service cuts because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The company received approval from the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency in early September to put another 500 scooters on city streets in addition to the 1,000 it already operates.

Union members include maintenance workers, shift leads, operations workers specialists, neighborhood ambassadors, and people who put out and collect scooters off the streets.

This new contract gives us job security and immediate money up front, with guaranteed increases each year going forward. We also got holiday pay and vacation, which we didnt have before we organized, said Shamar Bell, a Spin worker and shop steward, in a statement.

All this means a lot during the pandemic, Bell said.

Brian Feulner / Special to The Chronicle

Spin signed a labor peace agreement with Teamsters Local 665 in summer 2019 and followed through on its commitment to support our workers right to organize in San Francisco, said Nima Rahimi, Spins counsel for regulatory and labor affairs, in a statement. Throughout this pandemic, weve worked with the Teamsters to ensure our company could continue servicing the City by implementing safety procedures to keep both our employees and riders safe. We are proud to have negotiated this contract with the Teamsters to best support our local workforce in San Francisco.

The increase in its fleet could mean a hiring spree and potential uptick in union membership during a time when many across the Bay Area are still out of work because of the pandemic.

The company is the only one of four scooter companies with permission to operate in San Francisco that continued operating during the shelter-in-place period.

While the SFMTA has cut back service during a huge drop in ridership and revenue because of the pandemic, the agency is looking to scooters to help move people around the city.

Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes

Scooters can help by offering an efficient travel choice that is environmentally friendly and fills transportation gaps, especially for shorter trips, the agency said in a statement this month.

Spin will also expand to three more neighborhoods including the Richmond, Sunset, and the Haight, according to Muni.

Lime, another scooter company, recently acquired Jump both of which hold permits to operate scooters. Muni is reviewing the permit transfer process that would allow Lime to operate 2,000 scooters citywide.

Chase DiFeliciantonio is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: chase.difeliciantonio@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @ChaseDiFelice
Youth Chief of Greater Accra Zango, Alhaji Salim Abokin Ango

01.10.2020 LISTEN

The Zango Chiefs and Youth Leaders have emphasized the need for the youth and political parties to promote peace before, during and after the this year's general election.

The Youth Chief of Greater Accra Zango, Alhaji Salim Abokin Ango, urged Ghanaians especially Zango youth to play an active role in ensuring a peaceful election this year.

Alhaji Salim Abokin Ango said this during Accra Zango Chief's visit to signed a book of condolence over the death of Zazzau Zaria Emir Shehu Idris at the Nigerian Embassy in Accra.

He appeals to his fellow youth to conduct themselves in ways that would preserve the peace and unity Ghanaians are enjoying.

He called on them not to allow themselves to be used as violent tool to create unnecessary tension during the election which may not only jeopardize the development of the country but plunge the nation into chaos.

Emir Sharif Adam (Sarki Gadafi)

On his part, the Zango Chief of Ablekuma Agape Gonse, Emir Sharif Adam (Sarki Gadafi) revealed that Ghana has been relatively free of election violence, unlike other Africa Countries such as Kenya and Zimbabwe, which have suffered rioting during election.

He stated that since the advent of multi-party democracy in 1992, Ghana had held elections that observers regarded as relatively free, fair and violence free.

This he called on all stakeholders to actively involve in making Ghana proud and attain it stands as the gate way of Africa and a beacon of democracy.

The 2020 Presidential and Parliamentary elections he said threatened to break the history of peaceful electioneering of the country adding that due to vigilante groups form by the two major political parties posse serious threat to the nation hence the need to call on stakeholders to put proper measures in place before going into the this year's election.
Ohio Democratic State Lawmaker Endorses Trump for Reelection

A Democratic state lawmaker from Ohio says said shes endorsing President Donald Trump for reelection, citing low unemployment rates among black Americans and the presidents increased support for historically black colleges and universities.

Not only am I black, I am a proud American and delighted to endorse President Trump for reelection, state Rep. Bernadine Kennedy Kent said in a statement this week. Furthermore, I am honored to share with people my intent to vote for him and spread the word on the value of his leadership and his dedication to the American people.

Kennedy Kent, a lifelong Democrat, said that her values align more with Trumps than Joe Bidens divisive rhetoric, promotion of mass incarceration, and disrespectful, insensitive ideologies.

She also referred to a comment that Biden had made to a radio host: If youre still deciding between me and Trump, then you aint black.

Kennedy Kent, in another statement, said that her husband, who also is a Democrat, will support Trump.

Under President Trumps leadership, black Americans have experienced record unemployment and the poverty rate among the black community has fallen to its lowest level in U.S. history, she stated.

According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, Kennedy Kent and her husband, James Whitaker, met with Trump on Air Force One in Cleveland ahead of his debate with Biden.

She was kicked out of the Ohio House Democratic caucus in 2018 and hasnt been to the Ohio Statehouse since May 2019, the Columbus Dispatch reported.

President Donald Trump and Democratic presidential candidate former Vice President Joe Biden exchange points during the first presidential debate on Sept. 29, 2020, at Case Western University and Cleveland Clinic, in Cleveland. (Morry Gash/AP Photo, Pool)

Ohio Democratic Party Chairman David Pepper told the Enquirer that she basically hasnt been involved with the party or her Statehouse job for a long time, indicating that her stance on Trump isnt commonplace among Ohio Democrats. This is the first Ive heard of her in a while. Obviously, she checked out of her public position a long time ago.

Kennedy Kent, who isnt seeking reelection, said that state Democrats engaged in muddied mistreatment and unlawful action that drove her away.

Following my traumatic experience on May 22nd caught on Statehouse security video, my husband proclaimed his intent to vote for President Trump and walked away from the Democrat Party, she said, according to the Enquirer. After considering this scarring event, as well as other negative experiences in my legislative career, I, along with other citizens, came to the conclusion that the Democrat Party does not have the peoples best interest in mind.

She was voted out of the House Democratic Caucus after allegedly sending a letter with official Ohio Legislative Black Caucus letterhead without permission, according to the Enquirer.

In April, Georgia Democratic state Rep. Vernon Jones broke with his party in endorsing Trumps reelection bid, while praising the presidents policies.
Police arrest suspects in icon theft from Russias Valdai Iversky Monastery

 RAPSI, Maria Petrova

17:27 01/10/2020

MOSCOW, October 1 (RAPSI)  Law enforcement officers have arrested two suspects in the theft of an icon, altar cross and other values from the Valdai Iversky Monastery in Russias Novgorod Region, the Interior Ministrys spokesperson Irina Volk has told RAPSI.

The theft was committed overnight into September 1. Two criminals touched upon the island by boat, tunneled their way under the gates, entered the ancient monastery and stole an altar cross, gold jewellery and the Iberian Mother of God presented by President Vladimir Putin in 2001, Volk said.

The arrested are men born in the Leningrad Region; one of them was earlier convicted of grave crimes, according to the police official representative.

During searches police found a part of stolen items including the icon and the cross hiddent in a garage of one of the suspects. All sacred objects will be returned to the monastery soon, Volk stated.
After the first presidential debate, Alex Bennett asked his 12th grade government students to populate a word cloud with their reactions. The most common words: childish, unprofessional, toddlers, unorganized, combative.

Over the course of the hour-and-a-half-long debate on Tuesday, President Donald Trump repeatedly interrupted former Vice President Joe Biden, questioned his intelligence, and attacked his son, Hunter. Biden called the president a clown twice, told him to shut up, and said he was the worst president in U.S. history. Moderator Chris Wallace pleaded with Trump to respect the agreed-upon debate rules to no avail. At one point, Trump refused repeated requests to condemn white supremacists and told a violent, far-right group to stand by.

Teachers watched, horrified. Many use the presidential debates as a teaching tool for civics. Teachers often encourage their students to tune in, and some use the event as a framework for mock debates and elections. But the display on Tuesday was anything but educational, teachers said.

The students were very, very negative on what they sawthat was really disheartening to see, said Bennett, who teaches at Woodgrove High School in Purcellville, Va. We tell them that democracy is this wonderful process, and that their vote matters. ... Theyre looking to adults for leadership, theyre looking for hope that things can change, and this is the first time [theyve watched] two major candidates go head to head, and its like nothing weve ever seen before. ... Overall, they are stunned and sad.

Said Adam Dyche, the social studies department chair at Waubonsie Valley High School in Aurora, Ill.: We purposefully ask our kids and put our kids in a position to engage with the debates, and as I was watching, I was feeling guilty that I asked my kids to participate in something that did not represent a positive example of civic discourse. ... How can we hold them to a higher standard than what we are currently seeing? Were really showing them the ugly side of politics.

Clara Mattheessen, a civics teacher at A-C Central High School in Ashland, Ill., had her students watch the debate for extra credit. But when she saw them the next morning in class, she immediately told them that she does not support white supremacy. Students are coming to campus only a couple days a week, and she wont see her next group of students until Monday, but she plans to tell them the same thing then, too.

That was something that I felt while watching the debatethat all my students needed to hear that from my own face, she said. Mattheessen teaches in a rural district where many of her students are Trump supporters.

While teachers generally shy away from partisanship in the classroom, white supremacy and racism are issues that should not be debated.

It is doing a disservice to our profession if we accept certain issues as debatable or both sides, said Manuel Rustin, a government and history teacher at John Muir High School in Pasadena, Calif., who teaches mostly students of color from low-income families. As teachers, [our] No. 1 duty is to support all students. If I allow issues that dehumanize or do harm to my students, if I allow those to be framed as differences of opinion, Im not doing my duty to all students.

The Role of Mock Elections

The chaotic, acrid presidential debate has also raised questions about the staying power of one of the most civic-minded traditions in U.S. schools: the mock election. During the 2016 presidential campaign, there was a growing concern among educators that mock elections and debates would open the door to students repeating divisive and hurtful rhetoric from Trump about communities of color and could inflame racial and ethnic tensions. The National Student/Parent Mock Election, a voter education program, told Education Week then that teachers should avoid the impersonation element during a debate.

This year, studentsand students of color in particularare already traumatized from the coronavirus pandemic and the high-profile police killings of Black people, said Kelly Wickham Hurst, a former educator and a facilitator and organizer for Crossroads Antiracism Organizing and Training, which works with schools among other institutions. Having students debate these issues would be harmful, she said.

And Trump has showed a lack of compassion for those suffering while boasting about his handling of the coronavirus crisis, Hurst said: Thats just horrible behavior for children to emulateits actually childish behavior we try to train out of children, she said.

Indeed, teachers say they wouldnt tolerate the antagonistic behavior exhibited Tuesday on the debate stage in their classrooms. While watching that debate, my first thought was that if the president was in my class, he would not pass it, Mattheessen said, adding that students also wouldnt be allowed to tell their opponents to shut up like Biden did.

If teachers do hold a mock debate, they also have to make clear that certain topics, like white supremacy and racism, are off-limits, Rustin said.

If thats not made clear for students, especially if you have a diverse classroom, you are setting it up for students to be traumatized, he said, adding that as a Black man, he would have felt unsafe as a student if a classmate brought up white supremacy as standard political fare and his teacher allowed it.

If done carefully, however, educators say there can be real benefits from mock debates or elections. At Hume-Fogg Academic Magnet High School in Nashville, librarian Amanda Smithfield typically stages a mock debate and election thats meant to emulate real life as much as possible.

For example, during the Democratic primary earlier this year, students held a mock debate in which they researched the different candidates platforms and took on their personas. Students could vote early or on Election Day, and they had to register and show their student ID. (Sen. Bernie Sanders won the schools mock election.)

Smithfield said the mock election is a great way to teach the process of voting. But shes not sure what shell do this November. Her school is entirely remote, which makes the logistics more challenging. And the tenor of the presidential campaign has been so combative that shes wary of students personifying the candidates.

The presidential debate [Tuesday] night was really bombastic, she said. I would be uncomfortable [with students] trying to model some of the behavior that I saw.

Instead, she said, she will likely center a mock debate over Zoom around policy issues. Students could research the candidates platforms and debate the issues without pretending to be Trump or Biden.

If youre having a mock debate, what is the purpose of it? Smithfield said. A lot of the purpose is to inform kids of the democratic process, and youre trying to help them make an informed decision. A lot of times, kids just vote based on what their parents are doing. Youre trying to help them develop as citizens. ... You want them to become critical thinkers, you want kids to become informed on policies.

But with this divisive campaign,"its a hard needle to thread, she said.

Future Debates

Now, teachers are grappling with the question of whether theyll encourage, recommend, or require students to watch future presidential debates. Two more are scheduled, on Oct. 15 and Oct. 22. The Commission on Presidential Debates has said it will soon adopt changes to the format to ensure a more orderly discussion of the issues.

Dyche, the teacher in Aurora, said he plans on hosting virtual debate watch parties with students next month. He wants to teach them deliberation skills and civic discourse, and he said watching the debates is a good way for students to learn what they want to see from the political process.

Its a difficult balance, he said. Its balancing whats good and healthy for kids, but at the same time not sheltering them from the reality of their current political climate. ... For you to be an effective [citizen], you have to know what your candidates are saying.

Christine Jaegle, a social studies teacher at Lisle Senior High School near Chicago, said she hosted a voluntary virtual debate watching party on Tuesday. She was initially worried that she made a mistake, but the students were engaged and had thoughtful exchanges throughout the night. They asked if she would host a watch party for a future debate, and she said she would.

Teaching civic discourse is something I work really hard to do in my civics class, she said. To see that not being modeled for students is certainly disappointing, but it gives me hope when I see the kids are able to [have that on their own], and they want to have good conversations. ... They know that this is not what it should be like, they want better.

Image: President Donald Trump makes a point as Democratic presidential candidate former Vice President Joe Biden looks on during the first presidential debate Tuesday. AP Photo/Morry Gash, Pool
 Flash

A senior Chinese political advisor said protectionism by the United States has not only failed to help its manufacturing industry recover, but also violated WTO rules, aggravating the international trade situation.

Lou Jiwei, standing committee member and chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, made the remarks in an inclusive interview with Xinhua Tuesday.

China has become the world's second largest economy over the past over 40 years of reform and opening up, contributing more than 30 percent to global economic growth for several consecutive years. However, some U.S. politicians accused China of "taking away" the U.S. industrial chain, causing huge job losses in the country.

"This is a gross lack of common sense," said Lou, adding that the U.S. "declining manufacturing sector" and "loss of absolute advantage in its economic standing" as claimed by itself are rooted in its own structural problems.

Lou said structural problems in U.S. economic development have a long history.

As early as the 1970s, heavy industry and manufacturing centers such as Pittsburgh and Detroit in the United States experienced large-scale recession, decline in economic growth, and a rise in unemployment, becoming the so-called "Rust Belt." Then, China was yet to open up.

"In the following years, there was a massive transfer of traditional U.S. manufacturing industries abroad, an objective necessity that had nothing to do with China," Lou said.

Noting the United States has the advantage of being an international currency issuer, Lou said tax revenues in the country are relatively low, so long-term financial deficit must be balanced by issuing a large number of bonds. Low savings rate and inadequate domestic investment will inevitably lead to a huge trade deficit and massive outflow of U.S. dollars.

At the same time, an active financial market has caused a large flow of funds into the U.S. financial industry and the purchase of U.S. bonds, forming a cycle of inflow and outflow of the U.S. dollar. The decline of traditional manufacturing industry in the United States was further aggravated by the development of the finance-centric service industry.

With sustainable long-term financial and trade deficit, American people enjoy a higher standard of living, but certain U.S. politicians still say they are at a disadvantage. "The United States wants the status of a currency issuer, and on the other hand seeks balanced trade, which lacks economic common sense," Lou said.

Noting the current U.S. administration has created protectionist barriers by clamoring for "America First," Lou said if all countries shut their doors and impose a blockade, multilateralism will collapse, then plunging the world into chaos and crisis.

The global governance system has indeed exposed weaknesses that need to be addressed, Lou said, adding that in the face of an anti-globalization trend, China has responded by continuing to deepen reform and opening up and bringing benefits to the whole world.

"China is ready to work with other countries to actively participate in the reform and building up of the global governance system and jointly seek a more just and reasonable international governance structure," he said.
In a tightly contested presidential race, might Muslims swing the US election?

Referencing the release of President Donald Trumps tax returns in Tuesdays debate, former vice presidents Joe Bidens inshallah [Arabic for if God wills] may have been a nod to the strong support he receives from this community.

But according to data from the fifth annual American Muslim Poll, Muslims make up only 1 percent of the American population, only 74 percent are eligible to vote, and only 57 percent are registered.

Why then do they occupy such an outsized space in the mind of many American evangelicals? And what should evangelicals better understand about the American Muslim community and their political preferences?

CT spoke with Dalia Mogahed, director of research at the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding (ISPU), which commissioned the poll. Surveying 2,167 respondentsincluding more than 800 Muslims, 350 Jews, 200 Catholics, and 200 white evangelicalsISPU aimed to showcase Muslim perspectives within the context of Americas landscape of faith.

Among the findings is that American Muslims disproportionately practice their politics at the local level. Over 1 in 5 has attended a town hall meeting (22%), compared to white evangelicals and the general public (12% vs. 15%).

And while only 27 percent of the general public reports satisfaction over the direction of the country, both Muslims (37%) and white evangelicals (42%) are more positive.

Are they satisfied with the same things?

CT and Mogahed discussed the social conservatism of many American Muslims, their willingness to build coalitions on pro-life and religious liberty issues, and the surprising numbers concerning their approval rating of President Trump.

The level of support for President Trump has doubled among Muslims, from 13 percent in 2018 and 16 percent in 2019 to 30 percent in 2020. How to you interpret this finding?

We are still trying to understand it ourselves. One thing is that this growth in support came primarily from white Muslims. They are about 20 percent of the community, but approved of Trumps performance at 50 percent, on par with white Americans overall [48%]. Non-white Muslims were much lower [2027%], on par with non-whites in the general public [1624%]. So there is a salience of race in the Muslim community, just as there is in America overall.

The second thing that may have contributed to the uptick is the timing of the poll, which was right at the start of the lockdown, mid-March to mid-April. There may have been a sense of rallying around the flag as the president led the country at that time.

Your poll also examined the attitude of the Muslim community toward building coalitions with religious liberty and pro-life groups. Might some of this increase in support for the president be connected to his stand on these issues?

That also may have contributed. [Among] the variables linked to support for Trump is support for religious liberty, as is choosing the economy as the most important issue facing the government. Interestingly, just like the general public, identifying as white was also a predictor of support for the president; so again, race is a salient factor.

What was most surprising to me is that religiosityall else being equalwas not a factor. But partisanship was.

So it doesnt matter how pious Muslims are [71% said their faith was important to their daily life in last years survey], or how often they pray [43%]. These have no bearing on their political choices.

Exactly. As is the case of the general public.

Looking closely at the coalition building figures, roughly half of Muslims seem to be pro-life [49%], and roughly half support issues surrounding religious liberty [47%]. But the question is specifically about coalitions. How do you unpack these figures?

The question asked if you are in favor of building political coalitions with activists working on the cause in question. The community is split right in half, but this doesnt necessarily mean that the other half is not pro-life or doesnt care about religious liberty.

They may object for other reasonsif the activists have objectionable views about Muslims, or other issuesdespite agreeing with them on abortion or religious liberty.

Are American Muslims pro-life? Do they favor restrictions on abortion? Or is abortion an unclear matter in Islamic teaching?

The question is difficult to answer. Ive never seen data on what Muslims would say. Abortion is not as cut and dry as it may be for many evangelicals.

There is a difference over when the soul is breathed into the fetuss life. Some say it is present at conception, while other legal scholars say it comes at 120 days of gestation. Some of the latter might say an abortion is allowed for specific reasons up until this 120-day mark.

But despite many Muslims being against an abortion for themselves, a minority would say they are wary of the government regulating it, because it opens the door to regulating other personal matters.

The community is very diverse in its views.

I think this would be a wonderful topic for a dialogue between Muslims and evangelicals. I was surprised the figures for coalition building were not higher for evangelicals in our poll [53% favorable for religious liberty coalitions, and 57% favorable for pro-life ones], as we give everyone the same questions.

The polls suggest Muslims suffer disproportionate religious discrimination [60%, compared to 33% of the general public]. So one might think they would be in favor of building coalitions in defense of religious liberty. Why is it that half of the community [47%] does not?

I would say half of Muslims see the solution to religious discrimination in terms of religious libertythe first amendment. The other half would see the solution in civil rights laws.

This side is sometimes in conflict with religious liberty activism, which sees coalition building as a threat to their civil rights. If they dont stick up for other groups who are discriminated against, their own rights wont be respected.

The other side says no, we should be aligned with religious conservatives who want to give people the right to respect their faith and determine how to run their schools, churches, and mosques.

You really do have both sides in our community, in constant debate.

Is this tension reflected also in the finding that 55 percent of Muslims are not in support of building coalitions with LGBT groups?

Muslim-Americans are on par with Catholics [61%] and the general public [62%] in opposition to these coalitions. Those who approve them [39% of Muslims] may see common cause between Muslim issues and LGBT issues in terms of human rights.

How do Muslims interpret homosexuality within Islam?

This topic is much more cut and dry than abortion, and is not a debate within the body of Islamic jurisprudence in any way. The only sanctioned sexual activity is between a man and a woman in the context of marriage, anything else is considered a sin.

But I do want to clarify that in Islam, simply being a gay, lesbian, or bisexual is not a sin until it is acted upon. Islam draws the line between thoughts and actions, and gives rewards for self-restraint.

The debate is not about homosexual relations, but whether Muslim civil rights and religious liberty is protected by supporting other groups freedom to live their life as they choose.

This reminds me of last years survey, which polled Muslims on the degree to which they wanted their religious law to influence US legislation.

Some people within the Muslim, Christian [Catholics 28%, Protestants 39%], and certainly within the [white] evangelical community do favor their religious principles to inform law. But Muslims are less likely than evangelicals to favor a role for their faith in law [33% vs. 54%], and are on par with the general public.

The poll shows that American Muslims favor the Democratic candidate [51%] over the Republican candidate [16%]. But if Muslims are socially conservative on so many issues, why do they lean left?

Muslims are more socially conservative than the average Americanin terms of how they see sexual morality, for instance.

However, there are many things central to the Muslim belief system that resonate with the Democratic party. One is care for the poor. Health care as something people should have access to, even if they cant afford it. Protection of the environment. These social welfare issues align with Islam as well.

Another issue, frankly, is the alienation of Muslims from the Republican party, especially after 9/11 and the so-called war on terror, and their perceived Islamophobia. Perhaps more Muslims would identify as Republican if there wasnt such a hostile rhetoric against them from important leaders within the party.

At a social level, last years poll showed a 33-percent favorable rating toward evangelicals, compared to a 14-percent unfavorable rating. Can you explain this positive opinion toward evangelicals?

Unfortunately, the opposite is not true. Evangelicals are much more likely to have negative opinions of Muslims [44% unfavorable vs. 20% favorable], so the view is not reciprocated.

Why are Muslims neutral to positive? Muslims tend to respect and admire religious devotion, and they tend to see evangelicals as people who take their faith seriously, and live according to its teaching.

As our country tends more and more toward religious non-affiliation and agnosticism or atheism, this is the ideology that Muslims feel threatened by, not Christianity.

While evangelicals are responsible for their own community attitudes, what are Muslims doing, or can do, to overcome these negative perceptions?

Muslims are doing a great deal. I know of several Muslim-evangelical interfaith activities. But the key thing that needs to happen is for evangelical leaders to see Muslims in a more accurate light. Ive watched evangelical television, and I am horrified by the way they speak about our communitythings that are simply not true.

I think a better understanding of our faith would go a long way, as it tends to completely transform the view of Muslims. Ive seen this firsthand many times.

What have you heard evangelical leaders say in denigration?

I have heard people say that Muslims worship a false god, that their faith is based in demonic teachings. Ive heard this directly and in person.

This is simply not true. Muslims worship the God of Abraham, the same God Christians and Jews claim to worship. We have a different concept of Godwe do not believe in the Trinitybut to accuse Muslims of demonic worship is so baseless and almost laughable.

Satan is portrayed in the Quran as our enemy, as someone who rebelled against God. I encourage everyone to just read the Quran for themselves.

Within the evangelical community, the issue of same God is a theological concern, not just a case of popular rhetoric. But if religious differences cannot be set aside so easily, where do you see examples of Muslims and evangelicals working on issues of the common good?

I believe there is an anti-torture campaign these groups are involved in, believing in the dignity of human beings as endowed by their Creator. Poverty is another issue. These are two areas where we can work together, with the younger generation especially concerned about environmental protection.

We started with politics, so we can end with it also. Since many evangelicals are inclined to vote for President Trump, and it is expected to be a tight election, how can they convince Muslims to vote for their candidate of preference?

They would have to reassure Muslims that President Trump wouldnt seek to harm their community, violate their rights, and sanction discrimination against them. That he would make an effort to lift the Muslim ban. I would emphasize the economy and religious liberty, things pro-Trump Muslims already agree with. These would be my talking points.

The poll shows that Muslim support for Republicans has held steady from 2016 to 2020 [at 16%]. But this year, only 51 percent said they prefer a Democrat, which is a significant decline from 67 percent in 2016. And 28 percent of Muslims said they were undecided.

Is there a sense that Muslims are not as solidly in the Democratic camp as they were before?

I think there has been some erosion, especially because of concerns for religious liberty. Whether this will lead them to vote for President Trump, or just stay home, remains to be seen.
Harris Statement on Supreme Court Nomination

U.S. Senator Kamala D. Harris (D-CA), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, on Saturday released the following statement following President Trumps nomination of U.S. Circuit Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court of the United States:

The Supreme Court has a profound impact on the rights of all Americans. As a U.S. Senator and member of the Judiciary Committee, I have a duty to ensure that a Supreme Court nominee will uphold the law and has a demonstrated commitment to equal justice. Americans across the country are already casting votes, and we will soon know the president and senators who will be sworn in next January. We must respect Americans voices and allow the winners of the election to nominate and confirm the next Supreme Court Justice.

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From day one, President Trump made clear that he had a litmus test for Supreme Court Justices  destroy the Affordable Care Acts protections for people with preexisting conditions and overturn our right to make our own health care decisions.

President Trump, Mitch McConnell and Senate Republicans will stop at nothing to destroy the Affordable Care Acts protections for 130 million Americans with preexisting health conditions. The devastating coronavirus pandemic has already killed more than 202,000 Americans, and sickened millions more, yet President Trump is fighting in the Supreme Court right now to strike down the only law guaranteeing Americans can access the health care they need. Republicans are desperate to get Judge Barrett confirmed before the Supreme Court takes up this case in November and millions of Americans will suffer for their power play.

Just yesterday, I paid my respects to the legendary Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who devoted her life to fighting for Equal Justice Under Law and a more fair and just world. Her passing is devastating, and it would be a travesty to replace her with a justice who is being selected to undo her legacy and erase everything she did for our country.

I have been proud to represent the people throughout my entire career. With the next Supreme Court Justice set to determine the fate of protections for those with preexisting health conditions, and reproductive health options, I will continue to fight on behalf of the people and strongly oppose the presidents nomination.
Actor Ron Ely is suing the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Department over the death of his wife and son last autumn.

The actor, who is best known for playing the titular role in NBCs 1966 TV adaptation of Tarzan, is suing the city of Santa Barbara and its sheriffs department for wrongful death and unspecified damages following the incident on 15 October 2019.

On this date, Elys wife, former Miss Florida Valerie Lundeen, was stabbed to death at the couples home by son Cameron.

Police were called to the scene for a family disturbance, with Elys son being shot 24 times at the scene after reportedly telling police that he had a gun when he was, in fact, unarmed.

However, Ely has now filed a new lawsuit against the sheriffs department, claiming that deputies on the scene did not attempt to save his familys lives.

Ely in Tarzan in 1966 (Photo by Banner/Kobal/REX)

In legal documents seen by TMZ, Ely claims that he told emergency services that Lundeen had been stabbed in the chest and lungs, but they failed to check whether she was still alive when they arrived.

He also alleges that deputies prevented medical workers from entering the house to help her, leaving her without treatment for 30 mins before her death.

Ely says that Cameron was unarmed and had his hands up when police opened fire, and then went 13 minutes without receiving medical assistance and was left to die on the driveway.

The Independent has contacted the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Department for comment.

Ely and Lundeen met when he hosted the Miss America pageant in 1981 and 1982, marrying two years later in 1984. They had three children: Kirsten, Kaitland, and Cameron.
Seoul:

South Korean officials on Thursday turned away prosecutors trying to search the president's mountainside compound, a confrontation that highlights the tensions of an investigation into a scandal that knocked President Park Geun-hye from power.

Prosecutors want to question Park and search her presidential Blue House for more information about events that led to her impeachment in December.

Park has said she's willing to be questioned. But her office opposes any search and maintains that a law blocks searches in areas with state secrets unless keeping investigators away would undermine national interests.

A team of prosecutors and investigators attempted too enter the Blue House in downtown Seoul after receiving acourt-issued search warrant. But the Blue House didn't letthem in, saying it can only hand over documents toprosecutors, not give them entrance.

It wasn't immediately clear whether the president's office produced the documents or whether ignoring the court's search warrant was legal.

South Korean television stations showed what they called members of the special prosecutors' team waiting inside cars at a parking lot within the Blue House compound.

Prosecution spokesman Lee Kyu-chul told reporters that his team wants to search Blue House sites suspected of being linked to the scandal.

He said the offices of presidential advisers and security staff could be the target of the search, but didn't say how prosecutors could get into the compound without Blue House cooperation.

Park faces allegations that she let her confidante ChoiSoon-sil manipulate government affairs and extort money from businesses, though Choi has never had any government post.

Choi and several of Park's presidential advisers have been arrested on related charges.

The Constitutional Court is holding a trial to decide whether to formally unseat Park or restore her power. If Park is forced out, South Korea would hold an election to choose her successor within two months of the move.



For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
Editor, The Cheshire Herald:

Representative Liz Linehan is bragging about how shell address our high electric rates in a special legislative session. The trouble is, when Liz makes new rules for utilities, we pay the bill.

The last time Representative Linehan took a stand on electric issues, it was in support of Senate Bill 9, two years ago. Did you see a big increase in your Eversource bill this summer? That was its doing. As if we werent paying enough already, SB 9 mandated the purchase of more expensive energy.

This years jump was just the first great leap in a 10-year plan for rate hikes that Linehan embraced, without once asking the cost to her constituents.

Now shes pushing a bill to make the power company pay if food goes bad during an outage. Frankly, I can take care of the groceries myself  whats breaking the bank isnt a spoiled chicken now and then, but the highest energy charges between here and Hawaii, month after month.

Representative Linehan, your leadership on electrical issues costs us money with every bill that arrives. Instead of pointless new mandates adopted in haste, simply acknowledge the mess you have made and undo your mistakes. Please dont rush to do us any favors  you only make matters worse.

Stacey McMahon-Egan

Cheshire
Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/01/2020 -- According to the latest report by Transparency Market Research, the global self-injection device market is on course to achieve a huge growth for the given period of forecast of 2018 to 2026. The market was initially valued at US$3,770 mn back in 2017. The research report expects the self-injection device market to exhibit a massive CAGR of 13.4% for the mentioned period of forecast. With such an impressive rate of growth, the global market is projected to reach the mark of US$11,380.9 mn by the fall of 2026.



Request Brochure for Report - https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=58461



Rising Geriatric Population to Drive Market Growth



A plethora of factors are working in favor of the development of the global self-injection device market. One of the biggest driving factors for the market growth has been substantial increase in the geriatric population across the globe, particularly in countries such as China, Japan, and the US. According to the numbers presented by International Diabetes Federation, in coming 30 years, nearly one in every six people will be aged over 65. Because of the growing age and other lifestyle changes, there have been some negative effects on the health. This is expected to give rise to the trend of healthcare at home, which in turn drive the growth of the global self-injection device market.



Another important factor that is helping to drive the growth of the global self-injection device market is the recent prevalence of chronic diseases. There has been a considerable rise in the number of cases of rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes across the globe. The number from International Diabetes Federation suggest that around 642 million people are suffering from diabetes, whereas nearly 200 million are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Such staggering numbers ultimately presents a highly lucrative market space of the companies operating in the global self-injection device market. Moreover, it helps in the development of the market.



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Asia Pacific to Show Promising Growth



In terms of geographical segmentation, the global self-injection device market is divided into five main regional segments. These segments are Latin America, Middle East and Africa, Europe, North America, and Asia Pacific. Currently, the global market is dominated by the regional segment of North America. The region also projected to continue its domination in the coming years of the forecast period. The growth of the regional market is driven by the increasing cases of people suffering from chronic diseases such as diabetes. Moreover, the market is expected to witness a strong competition in coming years due to patent expiration of several biologics and therapeutics. On the other hand, regional segment of Asia Pacific is projected to show a promising rate of growth in the near future. Highly developing domestic healthcare infrastructure in the regions is one of the prime reasons behind the growth of Asia Pacific market for self-injection device.

Some of the leading companies operating in the global self-injection device market include names such as Wilhelm Haselmeier GmbH & Co. KG, SHL Group, Owen Mumford Ltd., and Becton Dickenson and Company among others.



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Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts so that it always reflects latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.



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The number of coronavirus cases had crossed 40 lakh on 5 September, 50 lakh on 16 September and 60 lakh on 28 September

New Delhi: India's COVID-19 caseload breached the 63-lakh mark with 86,821 infections being reported in a day, while 52,73,201 people have recuperated so far from the disease, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Thursday.

The recovery rate stands at 83.53 percent.

The total coronavirus cases mounted to 63,12,584, while the death toll climbed to 98,678 with the virus claiming 1,181 lives in a span of 24 hours, the data updated at 8 am showed.

There are 9,40,705 active cases of coronavirus infection in the country which comprises 14.90 percent of the total caseload, the data stated.

The COVID-19 case fatality rate due to the coronavirus infection has dropped to 1.56 percent.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on 7 August, 30 lakh on 23 August and 40 lakh on 5 September. It went past 50 lakh on 16 September and crossed 60 lakh on 28 September.

According to the ICMR, a cumulative total of 7,56,19,781 samples have been tested up to 30 September with 14,23,052 samples being tested on Wednesday.
On the occasion of the centennial birth anniversary of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, the Hindustan Times published a special supplement on October 2, 1969, which had essays by political thinkers, eminent journalists, Gandhians and writers. Fifty years on, we republish a piece from the supplement titled Statement at the great trial of 1922, which details the events of the year when the Father of the Nation was tried under section 124A of the Indian Penal Code  the sedition charge  for causing disaffection against the colonial government. The first part of this article offers a report of the trial. The second part is Gandhis oral submission. Gandhi also read out a written statement in court. The original piece has been edited for brevity:

The historical trial of Mahatma Gandhi and Shri Shankarlal Ghelabhai Banker, editor, and printer and publisher respectively of Young India, on charges under section 124A of the Indian Penal Code was held on Saturday, 18th March, 1922, before Mr C. N. Broomfield. J.CS., District and Sessions Judge, Ahmedabad.

Also read: MK Gandhis South Africa days

J. T. Strangman, Advocate-General, with Rao Bahadur Girdhartal Uttamram, Public Prosecutor of Ahmedabad, appeared for the Crown. Mr A. C. Wild, Remembrancer of Legal Affairs, was also present. Mahatma Gandhi and Shri Shankarial Banker were undefended. Among the members of the public who were present on the occasion were: Kasturba Gandhi, Sarojini Naidu, Pandit M. M. Malaviya, Shri N. C. Kelkar, Smt J. B. Petit and Smt Anasuyabahen Sarabhai.

The Judge, who took his seat at 12 noon, said that there was a slight mistake in the charges framed, which he corrected. The charges were then read out by the Registrar. These charges were of bringing or attempting to bring into hatred or contempt or exciting or attempting to excite disaffection towards His Majestys Government established by law in British India, and thereby committing offences punishable under Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code, the offences being in three articles published in Young India of September 29 and December 15 of 1921 and February 23 of 1922. The offending articles were then read out: The first of them was, Tampering with Loyalty; the second, The Puzzle and its Solution and the last, Shaking the Manes.

The Judge said that the law required that the charges should not only be read out but explained. In this case it would not be necessary for him to say much by way of explanation. The charge of each case was that of bringing or attempting to bring into hatred or contempt or exciting or attempting to excite disaffection towards His Majestys Government established by law in British India. Both the accused were charged with the three offences under Section 124A, contained in the articles read out, written by Mahatma Gandhi and printed by Shri Banker.

The charges having been read out, the Judge called upon the accused to plead to the charges. He asked Gandhiji whether he pleaded guilty or claimed to be tried.

Gandhiji said: I plead guilty to all the charges. I observe that the Kings name has been omitted from the charge, and it has been properly omitted. The Judge asked Shri Banker the same question and he too readily pleaded guilty.

The Judge wished to give his verdict immediately after Gandhiji had pleaded guilty, but Sir Strangman insisted that the procedure should be carried out in full. The Advocate-General requested the Judge to take into account the occurrences in Bombay, Malabar and Chauri Chaura, leading to rioting and murder. He admitted, indeed, that  in these articles you find that non-violence is insisted upon as an item of the campaign and of the creed, but he added of what value is it to insist on non-violence, if incessantly you preach disaffection towards the Government and hold it up as a treacherous Government and if you openly and deliberately seek to. instigate others to overthrow it? These were the circumstances which he asked the Judge to take into account in passing sentence on the accused.

(...)

Court: Mr Gandhi, do you wish to make any statement on the question of sentence?

Gandhiji: I would like to make a statement.

Court: Could you give me a writing to put it on record?

Gandhiji: I shall give it so soon as I finish it.

Gandhi then made an oral statement (...)

Before I read this statement I would like to state that I entirely endorse the learned Advocate-Generals remarks in connection with my humble self. I think that he was entirely fair to me in all the statements that he has made, because it is very true and I have no desire whatsoever to conceal from this court the fact that to preach disaffection towards the existing system of Government has become almost a passion with me, and the Advocate-General is entirely in the right when he says that my preaching of disaffection did not commence with my connection with Young India but that it commenced much earlier, and in the statement that I am about to read. it will be my painful duty to admit before this court that it commenced much earlier than the period stated by the Advocate-General.

It is a painful duty with me but I have to discharge that duty knowing the responsibility that rests upon my shoulders, and I wish to endorse all the blame that the learned Advocate-General has thrown on my shoulders in connection with the Bombay occurrences, Madras occurrences and the Chauri Chaura occurrences. Thinking over these things deeply and sleeping over them night after night, it is impossible for me to dissociate myself from the diabolical crimes of Chauri Chaura or the mad outrages of Bombay.

Also read: Gandhi: The chronicler

He is quite right when he says that as a man of responsibility, a man having received a fair share of education, having had a fair share of experience of this world, I should have known the consequences of every one of my acts. I know them. I knew that I was playing with fire. I ran the risk and if I was set free I would still do the same. I have felt it this morning that I would have failed in my duty, if I did not say what I said here just now. I wanted to avoid violence. Non-violence is the first article of my faith. It is also the last article of my creed. But I had to make my choice. I had either to submit to a system which I considered had done an irreparable harm to my country, or incur the risk of the mad fury of my people bursting forth when they understood the truth from my lips. I know that my people have sometimes gone mad. I am deeply sorry for it and I am, therefore, here to submit not to a light penalty but to the highest penalty. I do not ask for mercy. I do not plead any extenuating act. I am here, therefore, to invite and cheerfully submit to the highest penalty that can be inflicted upon me for what in law is a deliberate crime, and what appears to me to be the highest duty of a citizen.

The only course open to you, the Judge, is, as I am going to say in my statement, either to resign your post, or inflict on me the severest penalty if you believe that the system and law you are assisting to administer are good for the people. I do not expect that kind of conversion. But by the time I have finished with my statement you will have a glimpse of what is raging within my breast to run this maddest risk which a sane man can run.

He then read out the written statement:

I owe it perhaps to the Indian public and to the public in England, to placate which this prosecution is mainly taken up, that I should explain why from a staunch loyalist and co-operator, I have become an uncompromising disaffectionist and non co-operator. To the court, too, 1 should say why I plead guilty to the charge of promoting disaffection towards the Government established by law in India.

My public life began in 1893 in South Africa in troubled weather. My first contact with British authority in that country was not of a happy character. I discovered that as a man and an Indian, I had no rights as a man because I was an Indian. But I was not baffled. I thought that this treatment of Indians was as excrescence upon a system that was intrinsically and mainly good. I gave the Government my voluntary and hearty co-operation, criticising it freely where I felt it was faulty but never wishing its destruction. Consequently, when the existence of the Empire was threatened in 1899 by the Boer challenge, I offered my services to it, raised a volunteer ambulance corps and served at several actions that took place for the relief of Ladysmith (...)

The first shock came in the shape of the Rowlatt Act, a law designed to rob the people of all real freedom. I felt called upon to lead an intensive agitation against it. Then followed the Punjab horrors beginning with the massacre at Jallianwala Bagh and culminating in crawling orders, public floggings and other indescribable humiliations. I discovered too that the plighted word of the Prime Minister to the Musalmans of India regarding the integrity of Turkey and the holy places of Islam was not likely to be fulfilled. But in spite of the forebodings and the grave warnings of friends, at the Amritsar Congress in 1919, I fought for cooperation and working of the Montagu-Chelmsford reforms, hoping that the Prime Minister would redeem his promise to the Indian Musalmans, that the Punjab wound would be healed, and that the reforms, inadequate and unsatisfactory though they were, marked a new era of hope in the life of India. But all that hope was shattered. (...)

In fact I believe that I have rendered a service to India and England by showing in non-cooperation the way out of the unnatural state in which both are living. In my opinion non cooperation with evil is as much a duty as is co-operation with good. But in the past non co-operation has been deliberately expressed in violence to the evil doer. I am endeavoring to show to my countrymen that violent non-cooperation only multiplies evil and that an evil can only be sustained by violence, withdrawal of support of evil requires complete abstention from violence. Non violence implies voluntary submission to the penalty for non-cooperation with evil. I am here therefore to invite and submit cheerfully to the highest penalty that can be inflicted upon me for what in law is deliberate crime and what appears to me to be the highest duty of a citizen. The only course open to you the judge and the assessors is either to resign your posts and thus dissociate yourself from evil. If you feel that the law you are called upon to administer is an evil and that in reality I am innocent or to inflict on me the severest penalty, if you believe that the system and the law you are good for the people of this country and that my activity is therefore injurious to the common wealth.
Emily Kim has been teaching people how to cook Korean food for 13 years through her popular YouTube channel, Cooking Korean Food With Maangchi. (Emily Kim)

Love kimchi? Why not try making it at home?

Thats how Emily Kim, a.k.a. Maangchi, feels about it. Shes shared countless kimchi recipes on her popular YouTube channel, Cooking Korean Food With Maangchi, and that content isnt just for show. Its a way of life.

I make it every other month, Kim, 63, said from her home in New York City. Making kimchi is actually so easy. My entire life, Ive been making kimchi.

When she first started making YouTube videos 13 years ago, Kim made kimchi in large quantities  just like she learned growing up in Yeosu, South Korea. Early on, she recalls, readers would tell her, 10 pounds is too much. Can you do one cabbage?

But one cabbage is three pounds, Kim said. Youre not going to be very satisfied with a small jar. Now, my readers make 20, 30, 40 pounds.

And making it at home gives you the ability to tailor it to your taste.

I like it very spicy, very red, with a lot of anchovy and fish sauce with heavy paste, said Kim. Make a lot, just like me.

(Mikkalous / For The Times)

Many Korean family recipes are based on tradition, rather than precise instructions. They dont fit on index cards, and details arent always shared freely, even within the family. Kimchi and other dishes are developed over time, through observation and trial and error  all in an effort to capture the taste of Moms home cooking or to live up to a discerning mother-in-law.

But Kim has never hesitated to share her knowledge and love of Korean cuisine, or hansik. Shes also been generous with her time, and through her cooking, Kim has helped people come closer to their Korean identity.

Chef Kristen Kish, 36, was born in South Korea and adopted when she was 4 months old. She grew up in Michigan, where she says she was exposed to more Polish food influences than Korean.

My mom would always introduce me to Korean exchange students and Korean dolls and would give me all the resources to learn about it. But there was such a disconnect, and I will admit there is still a disconnect to this day, Kish said. As an adult, I understand and I see it, and I understand that it is a part of me, but I dont innately have some emotional attachment to it.

Story continues

After winning Season 10 of Top Chef, Kish was invited to join Kim to film a video for the PBS Asian American food and culture series, Lucky Chow. The concept, Kish said, was Maangchi giving Kristen Kish the Korean adoptee a Korean cooking lesson.

In a New York City test kitchen, the two met to make kimchi and cook japchae (stir-fried glass noodles with vegetables).

Kim was the first truly Korean figure to give her a proper Korean cooking lesson, Kish said, adding, Immediately, I got very  and still to this day around Korean food get  insecure. I questioned my ability as a chef, and this was post-Top Chef. Id just won and the world saw, and here I am, holding a knife, trying to cut carrots for kimchi and my hand is shaking because Im so nervous.

That insecurity with preparing Korean food was paralyzing, Kish said. But after the two spent time together, Kishs paralysis was overcome by Kims kindness.

Before they parted, Kim handed Kish a pink silk purse with roasted sesame seeds and a bag of dried Korean chiles.

That was a very big moment for me, because she is a maternal Korean woman and she was basically engulfing me in acceptance and love and care, Kish said.

Musician Michelle Zauner, who performs as Japanese Breakfast, also recalls how Kim and her cooking lessons helped her feel more connected with her Korean identity.

In 2018, Zauner wrote an emotional essay in the New Yorker, "Crying in H Mart," about her grief following the death of her mother. As a biracial Korean American, Zauner, 31, wrote that her Korean mother was my access point for our Korean heritage. (Shes turned that essay into a forthcoming memoir about the bond she shared with her mother over Korean food, her grief and how she reclaimed her identity.)

When Zauner's mother was sick, a Korean caretaker came to live with the family. The caretaker made her mother jatjuk, a pine nut porridge.

She sort of took over the caretaking process, and I think psychologically, that was a real confrontation for me not to be able to cook for my mom the way she cooked for me, Zauner said. I felt like a fake, or I couldnt be there for her, like I wasnt Korean enough to make this kind of stuff.

Zauner looked up a recipe for jatjuk after her mother died and found Maangchis recipe.

I always felt this gratitude and indebted to Maangchi. It was such a therapeutic thing for me to finally make this dish that I felt like I would never be able to know how to make, Zauner said. Maangchi was this figure that made this thing that, weirdly, is this mysterious thing thats hidden and passed on from your family. Its rare to have someone open with their knowledge.

Zauner celebrated her 30th birthday with Kim.

I ate her kimchi, and it was so good, she said.

(Mikkalous / For The Times)

During these COVID-19 pandemic times, Kim says her thoughts have been with her readers and followers who may be struggling. Shes wondered how she might help; for her, that means developing more delicious and inexpensive recipes with them in mind.

All of this is coming from love. I feel the pain when theyre losing jobs and staying home, but they have to feed their family, Kim said. I like to make food with love.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
We bring to you a bitter-sweet news for all the Kartik Aaryan fans out there. Fans are longing to see Kartik in a movie again, and director Anees Bazmee confirms that his team is planning to shoot the left portion of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 in Mumbai. Earlier, it was supposed to be completed in Lucknow, where a huge set was erected.

Masked Kartik Aaryan Shoots for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 In Lucknow

"It's safer to shoot in a controlled environment in Mumbai. We plan to complete the indoor portions here. So, we will construct sets in the city, replicating the interiors of the haveli that we had built in Lucknow. The producers [Murad Khetani and Bhushan Kumar] feel that our last schedule can be in Lucknow, where we can film the necessary outdoor shots," says Bazmee, while speaking to Mid-day.

Starring Kartik and Kiara Advani in the lead roles, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 also features Anil Kapoor and Tabu. The film is a sequel to the 2007 Akshay Kumar-starrer Bhool Bhulaiyaa.

While the director is all gung-ho about restarting the shooting of Bhool Bhulaiyaa, he shares one major hurdle which he and his team are facing currently.

"We have been looking for plots of land, but most of these locations have already been booked for shoots. It's not easy to get a property in October to build a set because many producers are kicking off new projects," shared Bazmee, who will be wrapping up the 15-day schedule once the venue gets finalised.

Kartik Aaryan To Reprise Allu Arjun's Role In Ala Vaikunthapurramloo's Bollywood Remake!
Mostafa Kamel Mostafa, also known as Abu Hamza, was accused of terrorism offenses and extradited to the United States from the United Kingdom in 2012. His extradition was permitted by the European Court of Human Rights and the British courts because the U.S. government assured them Mostafa would not be confined at a supermax prison in Florence, Colorado, for a lengthy indefinite period.



Yet, for the last five years, Mostafa has been housed at ADX Florence in solitary confinement and subject to special administrative measures (SAMs). Mostafas attorney Lindsay Lewis maintains the U.S. government misled the courts in order to make it seem like he would not be subject to cruel and inhuman treatment if extradited.



Lewis testified at WikiLeaks founder Julian Assanges extradition trial on September 29 and told the British magistrate court the unreliable nature of the U.S. governments assurances should be a concern for the court and British authorities in determining whether to extradite Assange to the United States.



Assange was charged by the U.S. Justice Department with 17 counts of violating the Espionage Act and one count of conspiracy to commit a computer intrusion that, as alleged in the indictment, is written like an Espionage Act offense.

The charges criminalize the act of merely receiving classified information, as well as the publication of state secrets from the U.S. government. It targets common practices in newsgathering, which is why the case is widely opposed by press freedom organizations throughout the world.

During the third week of the extradition trial, the court heard evidence about Assanges mental and physical health, including how he was diagnosed with Aspergers syndrome and severe depression while detained at Belmarsh prison.

Lewis drew from her experiences representing Mostafa on prison and medical issues that could arise if Assange is brought to the U.S., convicted at trial, and designated for SAMs at ADX Florence.

Mostafa, as Lewis detailed for the court, is severely disabled. He is a double- upper-arm amputee, blind in one eye, and suffers from diabetes, hypertension, and a skin condition, known as hyperhidrosis.

In 2007, Judge Tim Workman of the Westminster Magistrates Court, the same court reviewing the extradition request for Assange, ruled in favor of Mostafas extradition.

Workman indicated, ADX Florence could, if applied for a lengthy indefinite period result in inhuman and degrading treatment that violated Article 3 of the Convention Against Torture.

But Ron Wiley, who was the warden at ADX Florence, told the court it was highly unlikely for someone like Mostafa with type 2 diabetes, raised blood pressure, psoriasis, loss of sight in one eye and bilateral amputation of both forearms, who required assistance with the activities of daily living, to be placed at ADX Florence.

As Lewis noted during her testimony, Wiley stated, If it is determined that [Mr. Mostafa] cannot manage his activities of daily living, it is highly unlikely that he would be placed at the ADX but, rather, at a medical center.

That led the judge to declare, I am satisfied that the defendant would not be detained in these conditions [i.e., ADX] indefinitely, that his undoubted ill health and physical disabilities would be considered, and at worst, he would only be accommodated in these conditions [i.e., ADX] for a relatively short period of time.

Whilst I find these conditions offensive to my sense of propriety in dealing with prisoners, I cannot conclude that, in the short term, the incarceration in a supermax prison would be incompatible with his Article 3 Rights, Workman concluded.

There Would Not Be A Risk Of Isolation

The determination by the magistrates court hampered Mostafas challenge through the rest of his appeals.

Unless [the] ADX Florence regime ignores [Mostafas] medical condition and his need for nursing assistance, there would not be a risk of isolation since a nursing assistant (such as the one Mr. Mostafa saw multiple times a day while in custody in the U.K.) would be assisting in Mr. Mostafas activities of daily living, the High Court of Justice declared in their rejection of his appeal, according to Lewis.

When the case came before the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR), the Foreign and Commonwealth Office of the United Kingdom asked the human rights court to affirm the lower courts decision since it was unlikely Mostafa would be detained in supermax detention. If he was detained at a supermax, it would be for a relatively short period, given the extent and nature of his ill health and physical disabilities.

Furthermore, as outlined by Lewis, it was asserted by the FCO that he would not be put in solitary confinement because he would need to receive care for his disabilities. Any time he spent at ADX Florence would be relatively short until a medical evaluation was completed. Then he would be transferred to a medical center.

The ECHR accepted these assurances and rejected Mostafas appeal.

During cross-examination, prosecutor Clair Dobbin argued multiple times that the U.S. government never represented that Mostafa would not be sent to ADX Florence.

Lewis rejected this argument and criticized the rubber stamp process that has kept Mostafa at ADX and lacked transparency.



After exhausting a series of requests for administrative remedies to improve confinement conditions, Mostafa now has a case in federal court challenging the conditions of his confinement at ADX Florence and the SAMs that have been imposed.

CIAs View Of Assange Would Likely Factor Into SAMs Designation

Prior to Lewis, Maureen Baird, former warden of the Metropolitan Correctional Center in New York, testified. She oversaw SAMs detainees in the 10 South Unit, who were confined in conditions of solitary confinement during pretrial.

Baird was surprised the U.S. government has not said they do not have plans to apply for SAMs in Assanges case. Instead, they have left the door open, despite it being really unusual to even make that a proposal.



While Assange was in the Ecuador embassy, it is known that he was targeted with an espionage operation by UC Global, a Spanish security company. The defense believes the CIA was involved in supporting the company. (Two former UC Global employees were granted anonymity to provide testimony to the court.)

Edward Fitzgerald, one of Assanges attorneys, asked Baird about the procedure for determining whether Assange is placed under SAMs. She said the attorney general would consult with the intelligence services.

The CIA, as well as the FBI and Customs and Border Protection, would provide input, and what an agency thought about Assange would be an important factor.

According to the CIA, WikiLeaks is a non-state hostile intelligence service. Former CIA director Mike Pompeo described Assange as someone who has attracted a devoted following among some of [Americas] most determined enemies.

Oddly, every time a defense witness maintains Assange would be placed under SAMs and in solitary confinement because the U.S. government would want to restrict his communications with the outside world, the prosecution recoils.

Dobbin even questioned Bairds assertion that the U.S. Attorneys Office, after consulting intelligence officials, would view Assange as a threat to U.S. national security.

Lewis compared the medical care Mostafa received in the United Kingdom to the treatment he has received in the United States. For example, Mostafa used to receive daily nursing care four to six times a day, which does not happen at ADX Florence.

As Fitzgerald wrapped up his questions for Lewis, he noted at Belmarsh prison Assange is permitted to associate with prisoners. He may make regular phone calls. He has had access to sessions with a psychiatrist.

Lewis told the court this would change for Assange if he was extradited and confined post-trial at ADX Florence under SAMs. He would not receive anywhere near the same care or accommodations as he had in the U.K.
Thursday, October 1 is International Coffee Day. And catching up with friends over a cup of coffee, even if you're talking on video chat, has never seemed so appealing, especially since there are now so many ways to enjoy your daily perk, from creamy Vietnamese coffee and the ceremonials of Ethiopian coffee to Turkey's traditional strong black brew.

> Creamy concoction

Fans of milky coffee should beware when ordering their favorite drink at a Hanoi market or in the backstreets of Ho Chi Minh City. In fact, Vietnam has its own particular way of doing things when it comes to this drink, with a tradition that involves using condensed milk as the key ingredient. All coffee in Vietnam is served with an individual aluminum filter placed over the cup (unless you order an American coffee, of course). You then pour boiling water into the filter which contains the coffee powder. Generally, you are also brought a large glass filled with ice cubes. The Vietnamese then pour the freshly filtered coffee onto the glass of ice to drink it chilled. Coffee is a veritable way of life in the land of the ascending dragon!

> Ice cool

How do the people of Athens or Thessaloniki keep cool when the sun is shining? They drink their coffee on ice, of course. Espresso freddo can be ordered anywhere and everywhere to sip through a straw. Fans of milky brews or cappuccino can also sample iced versions. If you want to give it a try at home, the best way is to shake up instant coffee with a bit of sugar and some water in a cocktail shaker. Then, pour the foam into a glass then drop in the ice cubes. Greeks aren't the only ones who enjoy iced coffee. The Italians may be champions of the ristretto, but they also like to mix things up with a shakerato. In this version, the coffee is served short, its aroma is intense and it's above all topped with a generous foam. Finally, in Japan, iced coffee is an option that's often found ready to drink in bottles or cans in the various drinks vending machines on street corners.

Story continues

> Nice and spiced

In Ethiopia, coffee is a ceremonial affair with its own rituals. In the land that claims to be the birthplace of coffee, the drink is served by women and is prepared on the ground. In fact, fresh still-green coffee beans are roasted directly on the spot before being ground in a mortar. Water is then added to boil up the potion over a charcoal fire. The coffee is always served three times, with water added each time. Above all, the coffee is spiced with different aromatics, such as cardamom, cinnamon, ginger and even chili.

> Turkish style

Without a doubt the world's most famous traditional coffee, the Turkish technique is seen in several Middle Eastern countries, such as Lebanon. The typical Turkish coffee pot, called the cezve, made from brass or copper, is an essential piece of kit. Simply pour in water along with sugar then bring it to the boil. Next, take it off the heat to add very finely ground coffee. The coffee should then be boiled twice in a row.

> Twinned with tea

The Japanese have a particular talent for shaping cat figurines in their cappuccino foam. But the land of matcha -- where the traditional tea ceremony goes back hundreds of years -- also offers an original way to enjoy coffee, by blending it with teas with roasted flavors. In Kyoto, in particular, where coffee shops are well established and serve the black stuff in the typically Western way, drinking coffee is an experience to be savored, as customers can select and sample different varieties of green tea to be prepared together with their coffee. The resulting drink is a perfectly balanced brew that envelops the palate with roasted aromas.
08:07

A federal judge has blocked the enforcement of the H-1B visa ban issued by President Donald Trump in June this year, saying the president exceeded his constitutional authority.

The order was issued on Thursday by District Judge Jeffrey White of Northern District of California.

The lawsuit against the Department of Commerce and Department of Homeland Security was filed by companies represented by National Association of Manufacturers, US Chamber of Commerce, National Retail Federation and TechNet.

The ruling places an immediate hold on a series of visa restrictions that prevent manufacturers from filling crucial, hard-to-fill jobs to support economic recovery, growth and innovation when most needed, the National Association of manufacturers said.

In June, Trump had issued an executive order that had put temporary bar on issuing of new H-1B and other foreign visas including H-2B, J and L visas, till the end of the year.

The president had argued that the United States needs to save and protect jobs for its domestic work force at a time when millions of them lost their jobs due to coronavirus pandemic.

A number of IT companies and other US firms, and those representing them had voiced their opposition to the temporary ban.

Manufacturers went to court to challenge the administration's ban on certain visas because the restrictions both undermined the industry at a critical time and conflicted with the law, said NAM senior vice president and general counsel Linda Kelly.

"We are competing with the rest of the world to find and develop top talent to support innovation in our industry. Today's decision is a temporary win for manufacturers committed to building that innovation in the United States," he said.

In his order the federal judge said the president exceeded his authority in this matter.

"Congress's delegation of authority in the immigration contextdoes not afford the president unbridled authority to set domestic policy regarding employment of nonimmigrant foreigners. Such a finding would render the president's Article II powers all but superfluous," Judge White wrote in his 25 pager order.

The judge noted that the text of Article I and more than two centuries of legislative practice and judicial precedent make clear, the Constitution vests Congress, not the President, with the power to set immigration policy.

If the fact that immigrants come from other countries inherently made their admission foreign relations subject to the President's Article II power, then all of this law would be superfluous, the judge said.

"Indeed, there must be some measure of constraint on the presidential authority in the domestic sphere in order not to render the executive an entirely monarchical power in the immigration context, an area within clear legislative prerogative.

Such unrestricted authority would be contrary to Congress' explicit delegation of powers in foreign affairs and national security," White said.

The ruling by Judge White is in difference with a order passed by District Judge Amit Mehta of the District of Columbia in August who ruled that he does not has the power to enjoin the ban while the litigation is under way.





"The wisdom of the president's decision to address those changed circumstances by restricting the entry of certain classes of aliens is a policy decision the judiciary is not well equipped to evaluate," he had said. -- PTI
A lawsuit filed against a diocese in Georgia alleges officials knew about and covered up allegations that a Catholic priest sexually abused young students and failed to prevent the crimes more than 30 years ago.

The lawsuit was filed last week in Chatham County against the Diocese of Savannah and its current bishop, accusing the Catholic jurisdiction of conspiracy and fraud in mishandling alleged abuse by former priest Wayland Brown in the 80s.

The priest, who died in 2019 while serving a 20-year prison sentence, was convicted of child sex abuse charges in the early 2000s. Pope John Paul II eventually dismissed him from the priesthood, and in 2018, he was convicted of additional sex crimes against children.

The plaintiff in the Wednesday lawsuit joined several others in previous lawsuits alleging he was molested by Brown when he was a 13-year-old student at St. James Catholic School in Savannah.

The lawsuit alleges the then-bishop learned of abuse allegations and failed to surrender Brown to authorities, protecting him from investigation. A 1987 internal memo from the diocese included in the lawsuit shows that despite his record, Brown was later placed at the school in Savannah where he would go on to molest the plaintiff.

A spokesperson for the diocese told news outlets that it had not been served the lawsuit and could not comment. The diocese did not immediately return a request from The Associated Press for comment.

In 2016, the diocese paid $4.5 million to settle a lawsuit by a man who said Brown sexually abused him. Georgia authorities could not conduct a criminal investigation at the time because of the statute of limitations.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Lawsuits Abuse Molestation Georgia
Mumbai, Oct 1 : Reliance Industries on Thursday said that Abu Dhabi-based sovereign investor Mubadala Investment Company will invest Rs 6,247.5 crore into Reliance Retail Ventures.

Mubadala's investment will translate into a 1.40 per cent equity stake in RRVL on a fully diluted basis.

This is the second significant investment by Mubadala in a Reliance Industries subsidiary after the $1.2 billion investment in Jio Platforms announced earlier this year.

The investment values Reliance Retail at a pre-money equity value of Rs 4.285 lakh crore.

"We value the partnership with a knowledge-rich organization like Mubadala and acknowledge their confidence in our mission to strengthen the core of India's retail sector - the millions of small retailers, merchants and shopkeepers - through the power of technology," said Mukesh Ambani, Chairman and Managing Director of Reliance Industries.

"Mubadala's investment and guidance will be an invaluable support in this journey." Khaldoon Al Mubarak, Managing Director and Group CEO, Mubadala Investment Company, said: "We are pleased to deepen our relationship with Reliance Industries through this investment in Reliance Retail Ventures." "Their vision is the inclusive transformation of India's consumer economy through the power of digitization, creating opportunities and market access for millions of small businesses across the country, and we are committed to supporting the company's continuing development." Reliance Retail operates India's fastest growing and most profitable retail business serving close to 640 million footfalls across its 12,000 stores nationwide.
After witnessing two flat sessions, the domestic stock market made a stellar comeback on Thursday with the benchmark indices ending over 1.5 per cent higher. The S&P BSE Sensex ended 629 points, or 1.65 per cent higher at 38,697 levels while the Nifty50 index topped the 11,400-mark to settle at 11,417, up 1.5 per cent.



IndusInd Bank ended as the top gainer on the Sensex while ITC emerged as the biggest loser.



Among individual stocks, shares of multiplex operators like Inox Leisure and PVR rallied up to 17 per cent on the BSE after the government allowed reopening of cinemas, theatres and multiplexes from October 15.



IndusInd Bank recorded its sharpest intra-day rally in over five months after the stock rallied 13 per cent to Rs 598 on the BSE on the back of heavy volumes. Earlier, on April 28, 2020, the stock of the private sector lender had zoomed 18 per cent in the intra-day trade.



Among the new listings, Shares of Chemcon Speciality Chemicals were frozen at 20 per cent lower circuit at Rs 584.80 on the BSE on Thursday after making a stellar debut at the bourses earlier in the day. The stock of the specialty chemicals company was listed at Rs 731, a 115 per cent premium against the issue price of Rs 340 per share on the BSE. On the other hand, CAMS settles at 14% premium over the issue price of Rs 1,230 apiece.



Meanwhile, India's factory activity expanded at its fastest pace in over eight years in September as a relaxation in coronavirus lockdown restrictions drove a surge in demand and output, a private survey showed on Thursday.



Global markets



European stocks rose on Thursday as Swedish retailer H&M and French-Italian chipmaker STMicroelectronics jumped after reporting forecast-beating results, while hopes of more US stimulus aided global sentiment.



In Japan, a hardware failure shut down trading on the Tokyo Stock Exchange in the worst outage ever suffered by the worlds third-largest stock market, which said it aimed to reopen on Friday.



In commodities, oil prices fell as rising coronavirus cases dampened the demand outlook. Gold, on the other hand, rose as an easing dollar and signs of progress in talks for fresh US stimulus measures bolstered the metals appeal.
Federal Judge Orders DOJ to Release Less-Redacted Version of Mueller Report

A federal judge has ordered the Justice Department (DOJ) to publish a less-redacted version of former special counsel Robert Muellers report on Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election.

Judge Reggie Walton of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia said on Wednesday that the department had failed to properly demonstrate the redacted information could be protected by a Freedom of Information Act exemption called the deliberative process privilege.

This exemption covers internal communications in the Executive Branch and is usually invoked to protect the decision-making process in federal agencies. One of the purposes of the deliberative process privilege is to avoid chilling and distorting the candid discussion needed for optimum decisionmaking inside government agencies, according to the DOJ.

The DOJ argued that the redacted information in the report was protected by the privilege because the information was related to deliberations about charging decisions not to prosecute, which would reveal criminal charges considered but not pursued against certain named individuals under investigation.

Walton, who had reviewed the unredacted version of the Mueller report, did not agree, concluding that the DOJ failed to show that it met the threshold requirement to invoke the privilege.

The dispute regarding the release of information in the Mueller report stems from a lawsuit brought by BuzzFeed, its investigative journalist Jason Leopold, and the Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC), a nonprofit research center. The plaintiffs have been seeking the release of an unredacted Mueller report.

Although Walton said the DOJ was required to release information that was withheld under the deliberative process privilege, the department was still able to keep some information redacted under other exemptions such as exemptions protecting grand jury information, privacy, and law enforcement information.

In March, the department turned over an unredacted version of the Mueller report to Walton who had demanded to see the report.

Walton, a George W. Bush appointee, had several complaints about Attorney General William Barrs handling of the release of the Mueller report. He pointed out that there were inconsistencies between the report and Barrs summary of investigative findings he provided prior to the reports release.

The speed by which Attorney General Barr released to the public the summary of Special Counsel Muellers principal conclusions, coupled with the fact that Attorney General Barr failed to provide a thorough representation of the findings set forth in the Mueller Report, causes the Court to question whether Attorney General Barrs intent was to create a one-sided narrative about the Mueller Reporta narrative that is clearly in some respects substantively at odds with the redacted version of the Mueller Report, Walton said (pdf).

The inconsistencies between Attorney General Barrs statements, made at a time when the public did not have access to the redacted version of the Mueller Report to assess the veracity of his statements, and portions of the redacted version of the Mueller Report that conflict with those statements cause the Court to seriously question whether Attorney General Barr made a calculated attempt to influence public discourse about the Mueller Report in favor of President Trump despite certain findings in the redacted version of the Mueller Report to the contrary, Walton added.

DOJ spokeswoman Kerri Kupec at the time pushed back on Waltons opinion, saying that the courts assertions were contrary to the facts.

In response to FOIA requests, the entire report was then reviewed by career attorneys, including different career attorneys with expertise in FOIA casesa process in which the Attorney General played no role. There is no basis to question the work or good faith of any of these career Department lawyers, she said in a statement.

Walton ordered the DOJ to produce the less-redacted version of the report on or before Nov. 2.

Leopold, one of the plaintiffs, celebrated the partial victory.

@BuzzFeedNews @EPICprivacy were victorious today in our 18 month #FOIA case to get more portions of the Mueller report unredacted. These are some of the pages, which relate to WikiLeaks, DNC hack, charging decisions & the Trump campaign, he said in a Twitter post and I &

The DOJ did not immediately respond to The Epoch Times request for comment.
BERLIN, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- castLabs , secure digital video delivery solutions provider, ContentArmor the bitstream watermarking vendor and BitCine Technologies (dba CineSend), a leading provider of cloud-based media asset management tools for the film and television industry, have worked together to provide a brand-forward virtual film festival platform that is now being used by over 100 festivals worldwide. As movie theaters around the world remain closed due to COVID-19, film festivals, which usually premiere pre-release films, are shifting to online streaming which requires secured platforms to avoid piracy at all costs.

The CineSend Virtual Festival platform allows film festivals to launch VOD platforms on the web and major OTT platforms such as Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire, Android TV, Tizen, and webOS. The platform supports white-labelled branding and is easy to set up, launch, and manage. CineSend has tapped castLabs' and ContentArmor security expertise for their forensic watermarking and multi-DRM services to protect studio grade content with Widevine, PlayReady, and FairPlay Streaming DRM technology. CineSend is using castLabs' DRMtoday solution together with the company's Video Toolkit cloud-based service for secure content processing and distribution.

Digital rights management is a key component of protecting content from unauthorized access. However, there are still possibilities for people to pirate content through stream recording methods. Forensic watermarking is a powerful Video Toolkit feature powered by ContentArmor to further protect high-value live and on-demand content with a simple API.

"When we evaluated the market, we found castLabs and their partner ContentArmor to offer the most complete and comprehensive solution to meet our strict security requirements for studio content," said Colin Carter, CEO at CineSend.

A forensic watermark is a sequence of invisible characters or code repeatedly embedded into a video stream to make them difficult to detect and remove. As a result, if an illegal copy is found, the underlying watermark can be used to identify the recipient that has leaked the video. castLabs and ContentArmor have developed a server-based solution operating on CMAF assets that allows CineSend to deploy session-based watermarking on HLS and MPEG-DASH content without the need for third party libraries.

"We pride ourselves at being very efficient and quick in meeting our customers' needs to provide tailored workflows using the latest technologies. Content security is as relevant as ever during the current times and we are happy to be supporting platforms like CineSend in providing the highest level of protection for studio content. The team at CineSend was able to implement and deploy our solution in just a week," mentioned Michael Stattmann, CEO at castLabs.

"Our bitstream watermarking technology is a perfect fit to secure the distribution of exclusive content in virtual festivals. It provides Hollywood approved security for both VOD and live events," added Alain Durand, CEO at ContentArmor.

Contact castLabs to learn more information about their solutions, including DRMtoday , player software , and Video Toolkit , or start a free trial for a hands-on approach at finding the best solutions with easy setup and integration.

About castLabs

castLabs pioneers software and cloud services for digital video markets worldwide. Their solutions enable the playback of DRM-secured premium content over a large selection of consumer devices and platforms for high-quality video experiences. castLabs' range of applications and services include DRMtoday licensing, PRESTOplay player SDKs, and Video Toolkit processing. castLabs is based in Berlin, Germany and Los Angeles, California.

About CineSend

CineSend is a leading provider of cloud-based media asset management tools for the film and television industry. CineSend offers a portfolio of software solutions for studios, independent producers, film distributors, and other media professionals to manage premium media content delivery workflows. The company is based in Toronto, Canada with offices in Los Angeles, Stockholm, and Bangalore.

About ContentArmor

ContentArmor SAS is a French provider of audio and video content protection technologies. ContentArmor's Video Watermarking solution is approved by Hollywood Studios and Sports League to secure premium content production workflows as well as OTT and broadcast distribution to end-users. ContentArmor's video watermarking solution modifies the bitstream directly, resulting in instant embedding. The technology enables integration at any point of the distribution chain and requires only marginal additional bandwidth or storage.
(Photo : Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) MOUNTAIN VIEW, CALIFORNIA - MAY 07: An attendee holds a stack of the new Google Pixel 3a during the 2019 Google I/O conference at Shoreline Amphitheatre on May 07, 2019 in Mountain View, California. Google CEO Sundar Pichai delivered the opening keynote to kick off the annual Google I/O Conference that runs through May 8.

(Photo : Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images) NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 15: Sabrina Ellis, Google vice president of product management, introduces the new Google Pixel 4 smartphone during a Google launch event on October 15, 2019 in New York City. The new Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL phone starts at $799 and will begin shipping on Oct. 24.

Google now offers a cheap 5G device that doesn't compromise other features that the users care about most, especially the camera. The company unveiled its latest $499 Pixel 4a 5G on Wednesday, Sept. 30.

Also Read: Apple's iPhone 12 China Production Runs 24 Hours; Foxconn Employees Say Overtime and No Holidays In Effect for $880/Month-Is it Worth It?

Just like the new $699 Pixel 5 flagship, it also has the superfast 5G connectivity, 128GB storage, Qualcomm Snapdragon 756G processor, and a fingerprint sensor. The best feature of the new Pixel 4a 5G is its 8-megapixel front-facing camera lens, which is identical to Pixel 5.

It also has two rear cameras; a 16-megapixel ultrawide camera and a 12.2-megapixel sensor.

"Some people think that to get all the benefits of 5G at an affordable price, there needs to be a compromise on some of our core features like camera. But that's not true," said Soniya Jobanputra, Pixel's product manager.

What makes Pixel 4G 5G better than Pixel 5

The new smartphone has a bigger, 6.2-inch screen compared to Pixel 5's 6-inch display. It also comes with a headphone jack. However, since Pixel 5 is more pricy, it has some advantages.

Also Read: Apple's Support Document Suggests Restoring iPhone and Apple Watch To Fix Faulty Battery Problems and GPS Data

These include a 90Hz refresh rate on display, reverse wireless charging, IP68 water resistance, and a bigger camera, all of which the consumers need without upgrading. People usually buy new phones to have better screens, cameras, and batteries.

Why people consider buying Pixel 4a 5G than Pixel 5

Although there Pixel 5 has excellent advantages against Pixel 4a 5G, wireless charging and waterproofing don't attract consumers to upgrade, leading to many new buyers choosing the cheaper smartphone.

"Google is doing exactly the right [thing by] not compromising with the imaging quality on the cheaper [Pixel]," said Ville-Petteri Ukonaho, a Strategic Analytics analyst.

He added that he is still having a hard time figuring out how the company made the $200 price difference. Google has been developing its own Pixel handsets way back in 2016.

For more news updates about Google's smartphones, always keep your tabs open here at TechTimes.

Also Read: Apple's Autocorrect: Engineer Reveals Why It Makes So Many Mistakes; Function Flaws and Advantages

This article is owned by TechTimes,

Written by: Giuliano de Leon.

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
FRANKFURT, Germany, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Lincoln International, a global investment banking advisory firm, today announced that Rainer Miller has joined the firm's Frankfurt office as a Managing Director. Rainer will primarily lead mergers and acquisitions (M&A) execution, providing strategic leadership on transactions across all industries.

Rainer, with nearly 30-years in investment banking and the investment industry, has extensive experience across private equity, venture capital and corporate finance, accompanying clients in creating value through successful exits or divestments or creating and developing portfolios with add-ons or buy & build strategies. He brings in-depth execution knowledge and established relationships, particularly around industrial companies, to Lincoln International.

"We are very pleased to have Rainer join our constantly growing team in Frankfurt," stated Michael Drill, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer for Lincoln International AG. "Rainer's vast experience in various investment phases is an asset to the firm and our clients. The addition of Rainer expands our advisory capabilities around larger buy-sides and capital raisings."

Friedrich Bieselt, Managing Director and Board Member of Lincoln International AG, added, "The addition of Rainer further provides clients with the best-of-breed thinking and ingenuity that has become well-known for Lincoln International's execution approach. Rainer will further strengthen our position as a 'go-to' advisor for complex and larger deals."

Prior to joining Lincoln International, Rainer worked at Bachert as a Senior Project Manager, consulting for special situations, including carve out, distressed and insolvency. Previously, he held positions as an Investment Director at BWK Unternehmensbeteiligung, focusing on private equity minority and majority investments, a Senior Investment Manager at SHS, where he specialized in venture and later state investments, along with distressed investments, and a Senior Vice President of technology investments in the capital market business. Formerly, he worked as a Project Manager at BWK and a Corporate Relationship Manager and Credit Specialist at BW-Bank. Rainer earned a Master of Economics at University of Hohenheim and a Bachelor of Economics at University of Tubingen.

"I am truly excited about the opportunity to join the successful and growing Lincoln organization, and to add to Lincoln International's impressive momentum in the German and global M&A markets," commented Rainer.

This is the fourth Managing Director addition to the Frankfurt team in 2020 which currently comprises more than 75 investment bankers and support staff.

About Lincoln International

We are trusted investment banking advisors to business owners and senior executives of leading private equity firms and public and privately held companies around the world. Our advisory services include mergers and acquisitions and capital markets advisory for the mid-market. We also provide valuations and fairness opinions and joint ventures advisory services. As one tightly integrated team of more than 600 professionals across 16 countries, we offer an unobstructed perspective, backed by superb execution and a deep commitment to client success. With extensive industry knowledge and relationships, timely market intelligence and strategic insights, we forge deep, productive client relationships that endure for decades. Connect with us to learn more at www.lincolninternational.com.

SOURCE Lincoln International LLC

Related Links

http://www.lincolninternational.com


The Pixel 5 with aluminium back uses an extra layer called as bio-resin, which is essentially a thin layer of plastic

Since years it has been happening that smartphone makers have been using either polycarbonate material or glass at the back of smartphones to make wireless charging possible. Thats because phones with metal backs hinder the connectivity, which makes a difference in experience and charging speeds. But interestingly, Googles recently launched Pixel 5 flagship smartphone comes with an aluminium back and still has wireless charging. It even bring reverse wireless charging onboard. So, how is it possible.

As it turns out, the Pixel 5 with aluminium back uses an extra layer called as bio-resin, which is essentially a thin layer of plastic. This is the same material that you will feel once you hold the device. The aluminium part is just to make the back more durable instead of giving you a metal feel as mentioned by Android Authority. Hence, Google was able to pull it off. This tech let the firm cut a physical hole in the aluminium chassis and place a wireless charging coil. You wont be able to feel it since the resin layer is sturdy enough.

Also read: Google removes Pixel 4s Soli Radar Motion gesture feature from Pixel 5, but the tech will make a comeback

When asked that why didnt Google use glass or plastic at the back instead of the above solution, the firm said that it was the only way they could achieve the same footprint and thin-ness for the handset.

While this new solution opens up many possibilities for future smartphones as well and we may see more metal body devices supporting wireless charging, it is yet to be seen of the bio-resin material is as fragile as glass or stronger.
Thomas Ray Spoon, 70, of Ringgold, faithful husband, father, and papaw, made his transition to his eternal home to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, September 29, 2020, surrounded by his loving family.

Ray was born and raised in Columbia, Ky., until he was drafted into the U.S. Army. As a patriot, Ray honorably served his country for 14 years. He served in the 88th Transportation Company as a Heavy Vehicle Driver during the Vietnam conflict then reenlisted into the U.S. Navy as a Construction Seabee and Boatswains Mate in Argentina and on the USS Independence for a total of 14 years. Once honorably discharged, Ray moved to Trenton, Ga., and met his wife Sheila Thompson. He was a Journeyman Pipe Fitter and a member of Plumbers and Steamfitters Union Local 43. Ray worked for the Chattanooga Coca-Cola Bottling Co. for 15 years and for 40 plus years he faithfully served his Lord and Savior through his church, The Crossing of Chattanooga, formerly East Ridge Church of God. He served in the Bus Ministry, choir, greeting, maintenance, and never said no to any task that needed to be done. Ray lived by the verses Matthew 25:34-36, 40 and faithfully served as unto the Lord. He bled orange and enjoyed watching the Vols and the Braves. Ray cherished his family and was considered the glue that kept them together.

Ray was preceded in death by his mother, Lida Mae Spoon; brother, DeWayne Judd; twin grandchildren, Goodness and Mercy, and Grace and Hope; and sister-in-law, Sandra Wall.

Survivors include his loving wife, Sheila Thompson; sons, Thomas Ryan (Lanissa) Spoon and Jonathan (Danielle) Spoon; grandchildren: Jonathan and Levi Spoon; brother, Billy (Delores) Spoon; sister-in-law, Linda (Jerry) Smith; brother-in-law, Stanley (Judy) Thompson; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Friday, Oct. 2, at 9:30 a.m. in the South Crest Chapel. Interment will follow with military honors in the Chattanooga National Cemetery escorted by the Patriot Guard Riders who will also serve as pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to J. Spoon at P.O. Box 518, Rossville, to assist with medical expenses.

Condolences may be shared and webcasting of funeral services are available at lane-southcrestchapel.com.

Arrangements are by the South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home & Crematory, Rossville.
President Donald Trump continued to lash out at debate moderator Chris Wallace during his rally Wednesday night in Duluth, Minnesota.

'I was debating two people last night,' Trump said, pointing fingers at his Democratic rival Joe Biden and Wallace, the host of 'Fox News Sunday. 'I'm so disappointed in Fox,' Trump uttered.

Wallace has called the evening a 'terrible missed opportunity' after he was unable to control Trump's constant interruptions which have prompted the organisers at the Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD) to look into muting the president.

But the president has complained about Wallace not allowing him to land a glove on Biden during Tuesday night's first 2020 presidential debate night in Cleveland.

President Donald Trump continued to lash out at debate moderator Chris Wallace during his Duluth, Minnesota rally Wednesday night

On Tuesday night, President Donald Trump (right) participated in 2020's first presidential debate and 'Fox News Sunday' host Chris Wallace (left) moderated

On Wednesday, in front of the Minnesota crowd, President Donald Trump complained that Chris Wallace wouldn't let him hit Democrat Joe Biden as he pleased

President Donald Trump said Chris Wallace pushed back when he tried to hit Joe Biden on his son Hunter's business dealings and his support among the police

'I said "Sleepy Joe, name one law enforcement group that supports [you]" and then Chris Wallace says, "Don't do that." Can you believe? This guy,' Trump said.

The president also blamed Wallace for not being able to fully deploy an attack Biden's only living son, Hunter, who Trump smacked for his foreign business dealings.

'Protected by Chris,' Trump sniped. '"We don't want to discuss that,"' he said, mimicking the moderator. 'Oh really Chris? It's so sad.'

The president lumped Wallace in with the rest of the mainstream media during his Wednesday remarks.

'The liberal media is upset that I took the fight to Biden and exposed his dangerous agenda,' Trump said.

Turning to the summer's Black Lives Matter demonstrations coupled with the coronavirus crisis, the president charged that American journalists believe rioting is 'OK.'

'You can do whatever you want, you don't have to wear a mask you just riot, 25,000 people just standing on each other's face, do whatever you want,' Trump said. 'Can you go to church? No. Can you go to restaurants? No ... but you can riot. That's OK,' he added, referring to certain pandemic restrictions.

'Arson is OK, but challenging Sleepy Joe is totally off limits,' Trump added.

Despite his complaints, Trump told the crowd - many of whom were sporting red and black flannel shirts - 'I really enjoyed last night's debate with Sleepy Joe.'

But that might change after the CPD said it was 'clear that additional structure should be added to the format of the remaining debates to ensure a more orderly discussion of the issues.'

The commission is looking into giving the moderator the power to cut a candidate's microphone while his opponent is talking, according to a person familiar with the deliberations.

Trump told the crowd that Biden was trying to pull out of the next two debates, which is false, as the Democrat's campaign committed to the Miami and Nashville face-offs Tuesday night on a post-debate press call.

'Now I understand he's cancelling the debates,' Trump said anyway. 'I don't think that's going to be a good look for him.'

Biden also raised a record amount in the debate's later hour - $3.8 milion.

As he has at other recent rallies, Trump also took on Rep. Ilhan Omar, part of the progressive 'squad' of freshman lawmakers on Capitol Hill.

The attacks were more personal, however, as Trump went on a rant about refugees coming into Minnesota, Omar's home state and where the rally was taking place, from Somalia, the country of the congresswoman's birth.

The president accused Biden and 'Crazy Bernie Sanders' of agreeing to a 700 per cent increase in refugees into the United States.

'Congratulations Minnesota, congratulations,' Trump said sarcastically, saying the flood of people will come from 'Yemen, Syria and your favorite country Somalia.'

The audience booed.

The largest Somali diaspora in the U.S. is in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area.

'Biden will turn Minnesota into a refugee camp,' Trump claimed.

He again suggested that Omar wasn't an American citizen, which she is.

'And then she tells us how to run our country,' Trump said. 'Can you believe it?'

'How the hell did Minnesota elect her? What the hell is wrong with you people. What the hell happened?'

Omar defeated the GOP candidate in her very Democratic Minneapolis district in 2018, 78 to 21.8 per cent.
After a volatile September, all eyes are on October month. Benchmark indices broke below crucial support levels in September which does not auger well for the bulls.

The S&P BSE Sensex broke below 38,000 while Nifty50 also at one point in time hit an intraday low of 11,024 on September 23 before bouncing back.

Bulls have remained in control of D-Street in the last three months excluding September. The Nifty50 rose more than 7 percent each in June and July and rallied by about 3 percent in August. The index fell by over 1 percent in September.

We have collated a list of 4 factors which could weigh on D-Street in October:

FII Outflows:

Foreign institutional investors pulled out more than Rs 10,000 cr from the cash segment of Indian equity markets in September while DIIs were also net sellers to the tune of Rs 300 cr, as of data collected on September 29 from Moneycontrol.com.

"The decline in the domestic equity market ahead of the September expiry series was primarily led by FIIs selloff to the tune of more than Rs. 10,000 crores. An increase in the US dollar index for an extended period as foreign investors sought refuge from the risk posed by pandemic saw a dollar outflow from the emerging markets," Dinesh Rohira - Founder, CEO - 5nance.com told Moneycontrol.

"Further, the investors preferred safe-haven assets like the US Treasury after an aggressive run-up in the equity market despite a contrasting economic data with a grim outlook," he said.

US Presidential Election:

The next big challenge for Indian equity markets is to deal with volatility in the run-up to the US Presidential elections, along with domestic State elections. The volatility is not just in equity markets but also in the Yellow metal space.

US Fed will not meet again until after elections (November 5th is next FOMC), and that its 18-month policy review of AIT delivered no new measures such as negative policy rates, yield caps, a faster pace of balance sheet expansion or a shift in existing purchases from Treasuries/MBS to Credit, Edelweiss Professional Investor Research said in a note.

Fiscal cliff, uncertainty on US elections, Covid19 resurfacing, Brexit etc. will remain key uncertain issues. QE can contain volatility spikes and market drawdowns, but it doesn't prevent them, it said.

Also Read: US Election 2020: Here are quotes from the first Donald Trump-Joe Biden debate

The market has been volatile lately with significant corrections seen in the US markets. However, the bounce-back also has been very sharp in the market. The factors concerning the market are upcoming US elections, Naveen Kulkarni, Chief Investment Officer, Axis Securities told Moneycontrol.

A rise in COVID cases:

The world tally of COVID-related cases has crossed more than 33 million cases worldwide while for India the figure is slightly above 6 million. The rise in COVID-related cases has also increased the possibility of another round of lockdowns especially in Europe which could delay the global economic recovery.

Corrections are a part of the bull market and it is difficult to time them. The equity market has rallied sharply post March 2020 as investors moved from panic to optimism, Nimesh Chandan, Head of Equities, Canara Robeco Mutual Fund told Moneycontrol.

Currently, equity investors globally are worried about the second wave of Covid-19 in many countries, he said.

Market Valuations:

After rallying over 50 percent from the March lows, Indian market took a breather in September. The recovery in the market was largely on the back of liquidity, and expectations of a rebound in the economy both domestic and global which made valuations slightly expensive as earnings have more or less remained the same.

The markets had rallied strongly after the post-COVID collapse on the back of higher liquidity and the gradual unlock which led to a steady improvement in economic activity. It was inevitable that there would be a pause for breath and September was largely that, Hiren Ved, Director, and CIO, Alchemy Capital Management told Moneycontrol.

The near term outlook for the market will be driven by the pace at which the economy opens up, the trend in aggregate consumer demand, the overall liquidity situation and the earnings announcements and management commentary in the Q2 results, he said.

Indian equity markets have been trading at cyclically expensive valuations reflecting a quick road to normalcy. At a recent swing high of 11,800 Nifty traded at a PE of more than 19.2 times of FY22 EPS.

That leaves little room for gains which we have continually highlighted in our high-frequency data sets and communication, Edelweiss Professional Investor Research said in a note.

Chandan of Canara Robeco Mutual Fund said that valuations have moved up significantly from what they were 6 months back and are factoring a better growth trajectory from next year.

If the incoming data points challenge these assumptions, that could trigger a correction, he said.

: The views and investment tips expressed by experts on Moneycontrol.com are their own and not those of the website or its management. Moneycontrol.com advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.
The former Labour leader, 71, has apologised for his mistake after he was pictured at a dinner party last Saturday with eight other people. The group of nine, which includes his wife Laura Alvarez, 51, now face fines of up to 1,800.

Shadow health minister and A&E doctor Dr Rosena Allin-Khan said politicians had a responsibility to lead by example.

The MP for Tooting told Sky News: Im disappointed. Im glad that Jeremy Corbyn has apologised, it is absolutely inexcusable for people to break the rules. The rules apply to everyone. He rightly should be paying the fine.

Everybody should be fined that breaks the rules. Nobody should be able to flout the rules but that also includes government advisers and parents of the Prime Minister.

Mr Corbyn, MP for Islington North, told The Sun: I recently had dinner at a friends house where the number of guests eventually exceeded five.

I understand that remaining at the dinner was a breach of the rule of six. I apologise for my mistake.

It comes as Boris Johnsons father Stanley, 80, also said he was extremely sorry after he was photographed in a west London newsagents without wearing a face mask.

Dr Allin-Khan added: Weve seen Boris Johnsons father without a mask in a shop claiming he wasnt quite sure what the rules were.

Fundamentally we all have a responsibility to keep people safe. I work in A&EIve seen the devastation that this virus causes. We all have a responsibility to protect one another.

Mr Johnson told the Mirror he may not be 100 per cent up to speed with current rules as he had just returned to England after three weeks abroad.

He added: Im extremely sorry for the slip up and I would urge absolutely everybody to do everything they can to make sure they do follow the rules about masks and social distancing.

Dr Rosena Allin-Khan / Getty Images

Environment Secretary George Eustice suggested it was down to police whether either man was fined.

He told BBC Radio 4s Today Programme: In both cases they have admitted to making an error and have apologised for doing so."

Face coverings have been compulsory in shops and public transport since July. Last week they were made mandatory in hospitality venues, theatres, restaurants, bars and pubs unless people are eating or drinking.

The rule of six, which bans larger gatherings in indoor or outdoor settings, was introduced three weeks ago.
Bass Slams Lack of Justice in Kentucky: They got away with murder

This week, Congressmember Karen Bass (D-CA), Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, issued the following statement after Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron announced there would be no homicide charges brought against the police officers that murdered Breonna Taylor and instead, minimal charges brought against one officer for firing bullets into neighboring apartments.

These charges are an affront to the movement for justice and peace in this country and conveys loud and clear that Breonna Taylors life does not matter to the legal system of the United States.

Police officers are allowed to get away with the murder of unarmed Black people because the law doesnt just allow it, the law ensures it and this cycle  the murder of an unarmed Black person, the outrage in the streets, the lack of action by our legal system  is doomed to repeat itself over and over again until we change those laws.

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The George Floyd Justice in Policing Act has been sitting on Mitch McConnells desk over in the Senate for exactly 90 days. Todays announcement makes plain that the time to act on it is now.

We need to ban no-knock warrants for drugs, which takes the lives of many each year and traumatizes many more. We need to ban chokeholds. We need to change the threshold of prosecution for officers so that we dont need to prove what was in the officers mind when they murdered a defenseless civilian. We need to allow officers to be held accountable by eliminating immunity from lawsuits so that taxpayers dont keep having to pick up the check for the acts of racist officers.

Passing the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act means that when incidents like this happen again, the officers are indicted and convicted for their crimes.

There will be hundreds of thousands of protesters in the streets tonight throughout this country and it is critical the protests stay peaceful. They want to see an end. They want to see accountability. And theyre right.
Police officers checking on Britons who should be quarantining after returning from abroad will abandon their search if no one answers the door on their second visit.

The National Police Chiefs' Council admitted that when there is no answer at the address of someone who is meant to be quarantining, 'no further enforcement action can be taken'.

The organisation said that officers had been asked to check on 4,114 addresses in England and Wales between June 8 and September 22.

However, there was no answer at 440 of those so no further action was taken.

Police officers checking on tourists who should be quarantining after returning to the country abandon their search if no one answers the door twice (stock picture)

It is unclear how persistent officers are, with the NPCC's website stating that if no one answers the first time a policeman checks, follow ups are simply 'suggested'.

But according to The Times, officers will visit the addresses of tourists restricted by quarantine 'at most two times'.

The NPCC website states: 'Where police are unable to get an answer following a visit to an address, then additional follow-up visits are suggested.

'If there is still no answer, the times and dates of the visits should be recorded and fed back to Border Force via the triage centre.'

So far just 38 fines were issued to those failing to self-isolate across the UK.

The National Police Chiefs' Council admitted that when there is no answer at the address of someone who is meant to be quarantining, 'no further enforcement action can be taken' (stock picture)

Some 3,216 people were found to be complying with quarantine rules while 218 were found to be in breach of the regulation.

However, the NPCC stated that 'no further action was necessary as they were successfully encouraged to self-isolate'.

Air bridges: The nine nations that Britons can visit without having to quarantine when they return Sweden Poland Germany Italy Turkey San Marino Liechtenstein Gibraltar Mainland Greece and some islands

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In 240 cases, returning passengers put the wrong address down on the locator form that is required for reentry into the country so 'no further enforcement action could be taken'.

There are now just nine countries where Brits can travel freely without quarantine or a Covid test as Denmark, Iceland, Slovakia were the latest countries to be red-flagged.

Ministers removed four more nations from the safe list last week  Denmark, Iceland, Slovakia and the Caribbean island of Curacao, with quarantine required on return to the UK.

And Italy, Greece, Sweden and Poland are now facing the chop.

The UK Government currently uses a threshold of 20 cases per 100,000 when it makes decisions on whether to add or remove countries from its quarantine list.

Italy and Greece's case numbers have risen above the threshold alongside Sweden (currently at 30 cases per 100,000) and Poland (at 24).

While there are still more than 60 countries on the UK's 'green list' where quarantine is not required on return, many have their own restrictions on arrival or are closed to visitors completely.

It means holidays are only currently possible without any restrictions to Germany, Poland, Sweden, Italy, Turkey, mainland Greece, Gibraltar, San Marino and Liechtenstein. The last two are so small they don't have their own airports, meaning just seven true air bridges are in place both ways.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps reminded travellers that they are legally required to fill out a 'Passenger Locator Form' when they return to England.

Announcing the changes, Mr Shapps tweeted: 'Data shows we need to remove DENMARK, SLOVAKIA, ICELAND, and CURACAO from the Travel Corridor list.

'If you arrive in the UK from these destinations after 4am this Saturday, you will need to self-isolate for 14 days.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has announced Denmark, Slovakia, Iceland and Curacao are being added to the Government's travel quarantine 'red list'

'We will not be adding any destinations to the Travel Corridor list this week.

'Remember: You MUST complete a Passenger Locator Form by law if you enter the UK.

'This protects public health and ensures those who need to are complying with self-isolation rules.'

Heathrow boss warns government's Covid quarantine policy is 'strangling' economy Heathrow's chief executive has warned that the Government's Covid quarantine policy is 'strangling' the UK economy and costing jobs 'every day'. The west London airport registered an 82 per cent fall in passenger numbers in August compared to last year, as it repeats its call for Boris Johnson to introduce testing as an alternative to Britain's 14-day quarantine rule. Heathrow, which before the Covid-19 pandemic was the busiest airport in Europe, said that North American passenger numbers were down 95 per cent compared to last year as the coronavirus quarantine rule deters long-haul travel. Just 1.4 million people travelled through the major London airport in August, compared with 7.7 million during the same month in 2019. A spokesman for Heathrow Airport said this month that Covid-19 has 'decimated the aviation industry', caused an 'unprecedented drop in passenger numbers at Heathrow', and cost the airport over 1billion since March. It comes as the coronavirus crisis takes a sledgehammer to the travel industry in its gravest ever crisis, with airlines forced to cut thousands of jobs and slash the number of flights they provide as demand for international travel falls. John Holland-Kaye, Heathrow's boss, has said over 30 airports worldwide are using testing of travellers as a way of reducing quarantine requirements - with one of those, Germany's Frankfurt, having overtaken Heathrow in passenger numbers. Advertisement

Downing Street remains under intense pressure to change the UK's travel quarantine rules amid growing fears for the future of the aviation and travel industries.

Ministers have faced calls for months to replace the current 14 day self-isolation restrictions for people returning to the UK from high risk countries with a more nuanced system of airport testing.

Advocates believe testing on arrival could open the door to significantly reducing the two week quarantine period to potentially less than seven days.

A double testing approach would see travellers tested on arrival and then told to self-isolate for something like five days when they would then be tested for a second time.

Two negative tests would be enough to allow people to end their period in quarantine and return to normal life.

However, ministers have been reluctant to approve airport testing because of concerns that the approach could fail to identify some people who have the virus.

This is because of the amount of time it can take for the virus to be detectable after the moment of infection.

But many MPs believe the current blanket approach to travel quarantine cannot continue for much longer because of the damage it is doing to the aviation sector.

Recent weeks have seen British tourists have to make a drastic dash back home in order to meet the government's quarantine deadline from destinations such as France and Greek islands like Crete and Santorini.

Frustrated Brits have blasted the announcements, which have left them with little notice and scrambling to book last-minute flights, often at hugely inflated prices.

Many have also bemoaned the fact they've felt safer abroad than they do at home, then been told they need to quarantine due to rising case numbers.

It first emerged earlier this month that ministers were exploring plans to cut the quarantine time for holidaymakers to just five days by testing them 48 hours before they arrive in the UK.

Mr Shapps was said to have 'warmly welcomed' the proposal which would more than halve the 14-day self-isolation period.

Under plans by industry leaders, tourists and business travellers would undergo a second test five days after landing. If both tests are negative, they could leave quarantine.

This would satisfy experts on the Sage committee of scientific advisers, who say a second test around eight days after the first will pick up the vast majority of cases.

It would also allay Government concerns about the shortage of tests here by putting the onus on other countries to carry out the first tests.

Meanwhile, Heathrow's chief executive has warned that the Government's Covid quarantine policy is 'strangling' the UK economy and costing jobs 'every day'.

Recent weeks have seen British tourists have to make a drastic dash back home in order to meet the government's quarantine deadline from destinations such as France and Greek islands like Crete and Santorini

Frustrated Brits have blasted the announcements, which have left them with little notice and scrambling to book last-minute flights, often at hugely inflated prices

The west London airport registered an 82 per cent fall in passenger numbers in August compared to last year, as it repeats its call for Boris Johnson to introduce testing as an alternative to Britain's 14-day quarantine rule.

Heathrow, which before the Covid-19 pandemic was the busiest airport in Europe, said that North American passenger numbers were down 95 per cent compared to last year as the coronavirus quarantine rule deters long-haul travel.

Just 1.4 million people travelled through the major London airport in August, compared with 7.7 million during the same month in 2019.

A spokesman for Heathrow Airport said this month that Covid-19 has 'decimated the aviation industry', caused an 'unprecedented drop in passenger numbers at Heathrow', and cost the airport over 1billion since March.

The NPCC chairman, Martin Hewitt, said: 'It is crucial that people do everything they can, including limiting social contact, to reduce the spread of Coronavirus.

It is unclear how persistent officers are, with the NPCC's website stating that if no one answers the first time a policeman checks, follow ups are simply 'suggested' (stock picture)

'The country is at a critical point, and personal choices will matter in the weeks and months to come.

'Thank you to the vast majority of the public for sticking to the rules and following the guidance in place to limit the spread of the virus.

'A small minority, however, are not following the rules, and are making decisions which put lives at risk  they should expect to have enforcement action taken against them.'

The NPCC added that 18,646 fines have been issued across England and Wales but only 9,428 have been paid.
A late night snack almost turned deadly when a 15-year-old schoolgirl accidentally burned down her house while trying to cook deep fried chips.

Linda Barrett, 55, her three daughters, and their two beloved dogs managed to escape the inferno on Tuesday night after cooking oil 'ignited in an instant'.

The blaze ripped through their Glenhaven home, northwest of Sydney, destroying the kitchen, dining room, lounge room and upstairs area.

Parts of the house that escaped the worst of the fire were still damaged by smoke and water.

Up to 15 firefighters raced to the property and spent hours trying to save the family home.

The daughters, aged 13, 15 and 18, were all treated for shock before paramedics reassured them 'accidents happen'.

The loving mother said she had no 'hard feelings' against her 15-year-old daughter and said it was more important that no one was hurt.

A 15-year-old Sydney schoolgirl accidentally burned her family home down (pictured) after a fire erupted while she was trying to cook fried chips on Tuesday night

'I know it was an accident but my daughter is heartbroken, she feels completely responsible,' she told The Daily Telegraph.

'But it was a silly split-second mistake, it could happen to anyone.'

The schoolgirl was heating up cooking oil before covering it with a lid, but when she opened the lid a fire erupted out.

The quick thinking 15-year-old immediately raced to wake up her mother.

After a fire blanket failed to stop the blaze from spreading the entire family fled from the home.

Mrs Barrett was dealt another devastating blow when her insurance company told her she wasn't covered for house fires.

The Sydney mother had been paying two separate insurance premiums on her Jeep instead of on her car and her house.

She said the busy life of a single mother had caused her to miss the simple error, which cost the family the protection they desperately needed.

'I want to teach my girls resilience so now I've been given the chance to give them a real life example of how to rebuild after adversity,' she said.

The schoolgirl woke up her mother, Linda Barrett, but after a fire blanket failed to prevent the spread of the blaze Mrs Barrett, her three daughters and their two dogs fled the home (pictured)

Mrs Barrett's stepdaughter, Natalie Sutcliffe, set up a My Cause fundraising page for her family with hopes it could help them rebuild their lives.

'My mum and sisters have been made instantly homeless and lost everything,' she wrote.

'I have all faith of rallying the community, friends and family to help them get back on their feet.'

The family were told it would cost around $350,000 to fully repair their home.

'I would at least like to help them feel like they can make some moves forward in starting again,' Mrs Sutcliffe wrote.
In a previous life as a tour guide in the Eternal City of Rome, I would explain Raphaels famous Athens School in the eponymous rooms and former papal apartments inside the Vatican. There the two most consequential philosophers in history are side by side: Plato pointing up to the world of ideas, and Aristotle pointing down to the world of matter. We need ideas, I would argue as a philosophy student, big lofty ideas which propel us to greatness. Ideas of traveling across the ocean, unafraid to fall off its edge. Ideas of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness which codify mans unalienable rights. Ideas of a new way to power the world.

But those ideas must live in this world because we live in this world. The idea of a high-speed rail connecting Los Angeles and San Francisco is great. The reality is this idea is now projected to cost $98 billion and not be completed for another decade if at all. With a population of 40 million people, thats $2,450 per Californian. With ticket prices estimated at $86, every resident of the state needs to buy 28 tickets to break even. Yes, ideas are great, but reality can be brutal.

Heres another more familiar example inspired by Plato: Obamacare. Yes, the idea of government making healthcare more affordable was noble, but the harsh reality is that premiums increased by 60% while the number of insured increased. So nebulous and complex the Obamacare idea that the Speaker of the House Nany Pelosi made it clear: pass the bill so you can find out whats in it. Even she knew the idea would not stand up to reality, so much so that a decade and trillions later healthcare is still a subject in this presidential election.

Perhaps there is no better illustration of the unstoppable power ideas colliding with the immovable object of reality than in the green energy space. The chasm between fact and fiction is monstrous, and Plato and Aristotle have stop debating just punch each other nonstop. I wont pretend Im not unbiased: I am an advocate for fossil fuels. Green energy is fascinating, and it has a bright future, but its disciples are wedded to the idea alone, and they have zero tolerance for reality interfering with it. When one prominent documentarian criticized green energy by highlighting its shortcomings and questioned the financial incentives of its proponents, green activists demanded the film be banned. They claimed the filmmaker, longtime progressive activist Michael Moore, was peddling in misinformation and his ideas were dangerous.

That Raphael painting needs an edit so Plato is only pointing to good ideas.

It isnt Michael Moores fault that green technology uses a tremendous amount of fossil fuels. The idea of solar panels is great, but the reality is they need 1000 times more land, 90% of the rare earth elements they require come from China, the quartz in their cells is mined and then smelted by burning coal, they degrade at roughly 1% each year and are almost inefficient after 10 years, and with every rainstorm they leak toxic materials into the groundwater. The realty of solar panels is that that largest solar farm in America at 3200 acres produces 579 megawatts which is about 1/24 the electricity needed to power New York City. The idea of a green New York City is celebrated. Try implementing it, Plato.

I read the recent RealClearInvestigations The Red Hot, Hardly Serene, and Green vs. Green New Deal  in this light: ideas vs. reality. The idea of green technology is far too often embraced as a reality, and when implemented, the very advocates are caught in the middle. The Kennedy family, known for all things progressive, used their power to stop a wind turbine farm as it would be unsightly off the shore of their summer compound. Georgetown University was stopped from cutting down a forest to build a solar farm. Progressives battling progressives like a multiple personality Plato.

Vince Bielski, author of the Real ClearInvestigations piece, points out that battle over a proposed Ohio wind farm between the green loving Sierra Club and the bird loving Audubon Society. Ohio regulators ordered that the wind farm would have to shut down at night to keep the blades from killing birds. But its very hard, one could say impossible, to generate electricity from wind turbines which dont move and years of lawsuits have not resolved this not because there is not solution, but because there is not Aristotle to be the adult in the room and lay out the facts.

Know what generates electricity and doesnt kill birds? Natural gas plants. Yeah, but natural gas. The fossil fuel haters will say. Yes, they are not perfect. They have limitations and drawbacks, and as an Aristotelian Im happy to sit down and lay them out honestly. Are the green activists? They wont even allow Michael Moore  MICHAEL MOORE  to make a documentary.

Green is not perfect. Green is not a cure all. Green is not even green, and until its proponents are mature enough to get their head out of the world of ideas and plant their feet in the world of reality, green technology will continue to collide with reality: dead birds, land grabs, and in the case of California, blackouts.

From your hot water for your shower to your hot coffee from the machine, from plastics and medicines, same-day shipping and imported goods, your reality, our reality is a world of fossil fuels so plentiful that even Joe Biden and Kamala Harris cannot wean themselves off the convenience of private jets. Fossil fuels are reliable, abundant, inexpensive, and utterly domestic. You may not like the idea of them, but boy oh boy, do you like the reality of them. Go ahead, go without them for a single day, Plato, and then come back to me with your green ideas. Ill be waiting.

Daniel Turner is the founder and executive director of Power The Future, a national nonprofit organization that advocates for American energy jobs. Contact him at daniel@powerthefuture.com and follow him on Twitter @DanielTurnerPTF
The countrys largest public sector lender State Bank of India (SBI) announced the appointment of Charanjit Singh Attra as Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Attra, a former Partner at EY India and ICICI Securities senior executive joined the bank on October 1, the bank informed the stock exchanges.

Moneycontrol was the first to report the key move a month back on August 31. This is a rare lateral hire from the private sector by SBI for a C-suite position. In the past, it has relied on its experienced talent pool of top management.

The SBI notification to the stock exchanges read as follows: Pursuant to the applicable provisions of the 'SEBI (LODR) Regulations 2015 read with Schedule lll Part A(A)(7), we advise that Charanjit Surinder Singh Attra has been appointed as CFO and he has joined the bank today.

The position of CFO has been vacant since former Deputy MD & CFO Prashant Kumar moved to Yes Bank as part of the RBIs rescue plan led by SBI. Kumar was replaced in interim capacity by C Venkat Nageshwar. The public sector lender had created a position of Deputy Managing Director (Finance), which is held by J Swaminathan. The incoming CFO will report to Swaminathan, sources added.

Attra , a chartered accountant who specialises in Indian GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles), US GAAP, International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regulations, was previously an ED & Global CFO at IT firm 3i Infotech and CFO and Head  Structured Finance Group at ICICI Securities. He has worked with the ICICI Bank group for more than 12 years in the areas of Investment banking, finance (raising of both equity and debt), commercial and retail banking, financial accounting and operations, according to his LinkedIn profile.

He has been nominated on various committees of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and he also was a special invitee on the National Advisory Committee on Accounting Standards set up in the Ministry of Company Affairs, his profile stated.

According to a notification from the Banks Board Bureau (BBB), the name of Dinesh Kumar Khara, who is one of the MDs of the bank, has been recommended as the next Chairman of SBI. Moneycontrol had reported on August 18 that current SBI chief Rajnish Kumar will not get an extension . His term is coming to an end on October 7.
Two persons died in a road crash in Awowo village axis of the Lagos-Abeokuta expressway on Thursday while six others were injured.

An official said the bodies have been deposited at General Hospital, Ifo.

The spokesman, Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps (TRACE), Babatunde Akinbiyi, said the accident involved a yellow 8-seater bus with registration number FKJ 97 XY.

He said the accident was caused by overspeeding adding that the injured were later taken to State Hospital, Ijaiye, Abeokuta.

The dead victims were taken to Ifo General Hospital Morgue while the injured were taken to Ijaiye General Hospital and the accidented vehicle to Itori Divisional Police Station, Mr Akinbiyi said.

He said a free flow of traffic has been restored in the area.
David Attenborough says A Life On Our Planet (Netflix) is his witness statement, a 90-minute summary of nearly 70 years in broadcasting. The crime is the destruction of Earths habitats, for which he has had a ringside seat. If that sounds slightly po-faced, theres an anger in this tone that hasnt always been present in his work. This is the kind of film that could slip into self-congratulation, but the way Attenborough tells it, its only because of the urgency of the cause that he is allowing himself to be treated in such a valedictory manner. Necessarily, there is a ring of finality to A Life on Our Planet, but then again weve wondered whether each new Attenborough might be the last for about 20 years. Youd be brave to bet on it.

Footage and memories from his career, starting with the young man hunting for ammonites in Leicestershire, alternate with a new interview, with his face in close-up, in which he lays out the scale of the disaster and tentative hopes of improvement. His recent films have had a familiar rhythm: eye-popping flora, fauna and scenery for most of the film, and then a depressing environmental message in the final few minutes. This time the balance is reversed.

Much of A Life on Our Planet has the pacing of a horror film. The story begins happily, in Attenboroughs childhood and early broadcasts, where the world seemed like a paradise, and then quickly worsens. Three measures of progress appear in stark type on screen: the Earths human population, the level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, and the percentage of Earths wilderness remaining. Two of the numbers rise rapidly, one falls just as fast. In the most terrifying sequence, he projects what we might expect from future decades if we continue to trash the Earth.

Its difficult to imagine Attenborough's absence, but in his most recent series his presence has sometimes felt a bit distracting. Surely its time to hand over to someone else. In A Life On Our Planet, however, Attenborough wields his age as a rhetorical device. Even at 94, he endures, showing us the glory of the Earth and the error of our ways. He fixes us in the eye, one now drooping, carefully enunciating his words. Human beings have overrun the Earth, he says. I found it unexpectedly moving, not only for the loss on the Earth, but for the amount of my own life I can measure in Attenborough documentaries. Whatever Ive been doing, he has been there, saying the same thing. Older viewers might feel it even more acutely. These programmes at which I've spent so much time gawping are also testament to years of hypocrisy and inaction.

Although Attenborough concedes he was naive to think he was ever exploring unspoilt paradise, he still makes the point that his career has coincided with the mass destruction of the wilderness. He is also the same age as television. If you look back at his career, its clear hes one of those artists synonymous with new technology, in his case colour TV. (He was also a pioneer of HD.) He made his name in black and white, but the clips collected here are a reminder that his best work has been full-spectrum. The ginger pop of an orangutan marooned on top of a bare tree trunk, the white of a polar bear swimming in an iceless polar sea, rainbow-coloured birds hopping around in the jungle.

To leave us on as much of a high as possible, in the final minutes he offers us a ray of hope. Reforestation schemes in Costa Rica and solar power in Morocco prove the power of the right incentives. If only a third of Britains coastline was protected against fishing, our seas would soon be full of fish again. The quicker we can raise the global standard of living, the sooner everyone will stop having so many children. The film is bookended at Chernobyl, the site of one of humanitys most egregious disasters but also proof that nature thrives without us. Whether humans can learn to live with our world before we destroy it entirely is an open question. Thanks to Attenborough and the thousands of brilliant producers, camera operators, editors, guides and other crew who have worked with him over the decades, we at least know what we are losing.
A home surveillance camera has captured the horrifying moment a giant alligator grabs a six-month-old puppy in a Florida backyard and drags it back into a lake.

The incident occurred in the town of Lake Kathryn last Thursday, while homeowner Dale Barberi was out at work.

When he returned to his home - which backs onto the lake - Barberi was unable to find the young German Shepherd, named Mia, and quickly launched a frantic search.

'I went outside, started looking for her. Looked underneath the trees, looked underneath the trailer, looked everywhere and couldn't find her,' the shaken pet owner told WESH on Tuesday.

A home surveillance camera has captured the horrifying moment a giant alligator eats a six-month-old puppy in a Florida backyard

Dale Barberi returned to his home, which backs onto Lake Kthryn, and was unable to find his young German Shepherd, named Mia

Barberi believed Mia may have been stolen, so he went to check his home security cameras and discovered the horrifying truth.

The footage shows the puppy playing with another dog at the edge of Lake Kathryn when the gator emerges from the water and traps the canine in its jaws.

Mia is seen struggling to break free from the predator before it pulls her into the water and disappears.

The video subsequently shows heartbreaking footage of Barberi's three other dogs waiting by the edge of the lake for Mia to return.

One of the dogs is Mia's mother, and the canines are all related.

'I'm kind of sad about it,' Barberi stated.

'The way that gator just took her and wow, he was huge and he was fast. Less than two seconds and my puppy was gone.'

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission were called to the scene and a trapper found Mia's remains on the other side of the lake.

A hunter is now trying to find the massive gator who ate the beloved pup.
By AFP

NEW YORK: The heiress of the Canadian drinks empire Seagram was sentenced to more than six years in prison by a New York court Wednesday after pleading guilty in a sex trafficking scandal linked to a cult.

The 81-month sentence handed down to Clare Bronfman, 41, was seen as particularly stiff, since prosecutors had themselves only called for five years of incarceration.

Bronfman pleaded guilty last year to credit card fraud and harboring illegal immigrants on behalf of "self-help" group Nxivm, whose founder Keith Raniere was found guilty in June 2019 of having kept between 15 and 20 sex slaves for years.

Prosecutors said that Bronfman spent tens of millions of dollars supporting the group, known as Nxivm -- pronounced "Nexium."

"There can be little doubt that Raniere would not have been able to commit the crimes with which he was convicted were it not for powerful allies like Bronfman," the prosecution said.

Her defense had hoped she would be able to avoid jail time and had called for a three-year suspended sentence.

Her lawyers said that even though she had pleaded guilty to credit card fraud and harboring illegal immigrants for the group, she did not know about the sexual abuse committed by Raniere in a group parallel to Nxivm called DOS, which was made up of "masters" and "slaves."

They said she only knew of the beneficial side of the Albany, New York-based organization, which purported to teach classes for women's self-empowerment.

Of the six people charged in the scandal that broke in 2018, Bronfman was the first to learn her sentence.

Prosecutors have requested life in prison for Raniere, who will find out his sentence on October 27.

Four others have pleaded guilty, including actress Allison Mack from the series "Smallville," who admitted to two counts of racketeering in April 2019.

The dramatic story has been the subject of two screen adaptions: HBO's recently released "The Vow" docu-series and "Escaping the Nxivm Cult," a 2019 Lisa Robinson film focused on the testimony of a mother working to save her daughter from the organization.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 09:52:27|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday extended congratulations to the new emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and pledged joint efforts to further promote bilateral ties.

In his message, Xi said that since establishing diplomatic ties, the two countries have enjoyed smooth development of their relationship, and have become good friends of mutual trust and good partners of sincere cooperation.

Xi said he attaches great importance to the development of China-Kuwait ties, and stands ready to work with the new emir on the comprehensive and further development of the China-Kuwait strategic partnership so as to bring benefits to both countries and their people. Enditem
Since it would be too much of a stretch to refer to a series of stage performances as Carnival, the Government has decided to offer instead a Taste of Carnival.

For traditional Carnival interests whose events will be facilitated and supported by the State, the proposal presented on Wednesday by the Minister of Tourism, Culture and the Arts, Randall Mitchell, must be a welcome case of half a loaf being plenty better than none.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 21:40:09|Editor: huaxia

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BEIRUT, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Lebanon's House Speaker Nabih Berri announced on Thursday that Lebanon and Israel will begin indirect talks with the mediation of the United States for land and maritime border demarcation, the National News Agency reported.

"We have agreed on a framework to hold indirect U.S. mediated talks for land and maritime demarcation to be led by the Lebanese army," Berri said during a press conference held at Ain El Tineh.

Lebanon has an unresolved maritime border with Israel that involves a triangular sea area of about 860 square km extending along the edge of three of its 10 offshore energy blocks.

Lebanon has been trying to find solutions to border demarcation with Israel since it is preparing to kick off oil and gas exploration activities in the area of dispute later this year.

Negotiation meetings will be held at the UNIFIL base in Naqoura in south Lebanon under the auspices of the United Nations. Enditem
Emma Walmsley, the CEO of the worlds largest vaccine producing firm reportedly said that Covid-19 Vaccine would be widely available by next year. Speaking at an online event with the Confederation of British Industry, the executive head of GlaxoSmithKline opined that she was optimistic that the world would have a solution to coronavirus by next year. However, as reported by wired.gov.net, she stated that the real challenge lied in getting it in the volume that is required.

GSK is contributing adjuvants, efficacy boosters that play a vital role in many vaccines, in several development alliances for potential future vaccines. One of its most advanced project with French pharmaceutical company Sanofi, which is aiming to launch its vaccine in 2020.

'Does not compromise safety'

Read: World Bank Seeks $12 Billion To Help Poor Nations Secure COVID-19 Vaccines

Read: COVID-19 Vaccine: 100 Million Additional Vaccines Doses Secured For Poorer Countries

In her address, Walmsley she stressed that the vaccines industrys accelerated speed at producing vaccine did not affect its safety. Supporting her claim, she said that regardless of the expediated process, the trials were not smaller than usual and regulators and companies were taking steps in parallel that were previously done consecutively.

Read: Moderna's COVID-19 Vaccine Safe For Older Adults, Extended Trials Reveal

Read: COVID-19 Vaccine: Serum Institute To Make Additional 100 Million 'safe & Effective' Doses

Meanwhile, new trials conducted by Moderna Inc. revealed that its COVID-19 vaccine appeared safe and worked well with older adults. The findings of the trials were published in the New England Journal of Medicine and revealed that the vaccine produced virus neutralizing antibodies at levels similar to those seen in adults. Moderna is already testing 100 microgram dose of its vaccine in Phase 3, and positive results would make it US first vaccine.

The latest research was conducted as an extension of the companys Phase I safety trials which were first conducted in individuals aged 18-55. For the purpose, researchers tested two doses of Modernas vaccine - 25 micrograms and 100 micrograms - in 40 adults aged 56 to 70 and 71 and older.
Bismah Malik By

Express News Service

BENGALURU: The Income Tax department has notified guidelines on a 1 per cent Tax Deducted at the Source (TDS) for e-commerce companies and 0.1 per cent Tax Collected at the Source (TCS) for sellers to be implemented from October 1 onwards. However, this has raised concerns among industry stakeholders.

Experts say that the government should consider releasing a fresh draft specifying the nature of service providers, e-commerce operator, service recipient and applicability to foreign firms. They also say that the move may impact the cash flows of the e-commerce companies and discourage sellers.

Under fire, the IT department clarified several doubts on Wednesday stating that sellers need to collect 0.1 per cent tax from buyers on the amount received on or from October 1, 2020 only in cases where receipt of sale consideration exceeds Rs 50 lakh in a financial year. It added that in cases where TCS is higher than the tax liability of a seller, the extra amount will be refunded along with the interest.

A few areas in the current... regime require additional clarity (such as non-residents and its interplay with tax treaties) and an FAQ type document will be helpful. It could have been better if the withholding obligations were made effective from April 1, 2021, said Ravi S Raghavan, Tax Counsel, Majmudar & Partners.
When the Dunn County News (Sept. 23 edition) showed up at our house, I was excited to see a front-page call for candidate forum questions.

The efforts of the Menomonie Area Chamber of Commerce and Chippewa Valley Chapter of the League of Women Voters to offer fair and nonpartisan forums are just what's needed during such a polarized time in our country.

Citizens need opportunities to engage the democratic process and learn about their candidates for public office. We're lucky to have these groups in our community creating such opportunities.

However, I'm disappointed that Republican candidates for Wisconsin Senate District 10, Rob Stafsholt, and Wisconsin Assembly District 29, Clint Moses, have declined to participate.

Presumably, this is because they are too busy to make themselves available to constituents. Or, perhaps, they don't feel that groups such as the Chamber or the League of Women Voters are not fair or nonpartisan, which unfortunately signals how much trust has been eroded in our community.

Or perhaps it just isn't that important to them. Their refusals, as well as their resistance to scheduling replacement forums that work for their schedules or sense of political safety, strike me as telling of how they would fulfill their duties should they be elected.

In the end, our elected officials' first duty is to be available and accountable to those that put them in office. This duty begins before they are elected through participation in the full democratic process.

Taking part in accessible public forums for candidates to share their views and field constituent questions is part of building an engaged electorate and democracy. The Chamber and LWV get this, as do the Democratic candidates.

I encourage Rob and Clint to live up to this nation's tradition of democratic courage by scheduling and standing for candidate forums.

Pete Huff, Menomonie

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ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Public Service Company of New Mexico (PNM), the wholly-owned regulated New Mexico subsidiary of PNM Resources (NYSE: PNM) is announcing additional efforts to support customers this year with the introduction of its COVID Customer Relief Programs. The programs are being funded with a $2.0 million company contribution to support income-qualified residential customers and small business customers who have been impacted by the financial challenges created by the pandemic and have past due electric bills.

Customer programs demonstrate the Company's support for customers and communities as part of its commitment to environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles. This support has become increasingly essential to customers in response to COVID-19. Other customer programs modified during the pandemic include implementation of more flexible customer payment plans, transition to online customer assistance programs and implementation of a virtual PNM Home Energy Checkup program, one of the many energy efficiency programs designed to reduce customers' electricity usage. PNM was the first utility in the Southwest to begin providing a virtual option for this type of program.

"People are the core of our business and our communities," said Pat Vincent-Collawn, PNM Resources' chairman, president and CEO. "Our teams moved quickly this year to ensure our long-standing customer programs remained available during the pandemic to help customers access financial assistance and manage their energy usage as temperatures and energy usage peaked. As pandemic impacts continue into fall, we look for additional ways to support customers during this unprecedented time and are creating new programs to help pay down summer electric bills. Our communities are stronger when our customers are supported."

The third quarter earnings call will highlight the Company's continued focus on ESG principles that benefit customers, communities and the environment.

PNM Resources 2020 Ongoing Earnings Guidance

PNM Resources is raising its 2020 ongoing earnings guidance to $2.23 - $2.31, targeting a midpoint of $2.27, compared to its previous range of $2.16 - $2.26. The increase reflects higher residential loads resulting from COVID-19 and hotter summer temperatures, along with interest savings from the refinancing of debt in 2020 that will benefit customers long-term. Third quarter results support the guidance revision and the Company's earnings growth target of five to six percent through 2023.

PNM Resources 2020 Third Quarter Earnings Call

More information will be provided during the Company's 2020 third quarter earnings announcement on October 30, 2020, including more details on the guidance along with an update to investment plans and earnings power to incorporate 2024. The earnings news release will be issued at 6:30 a.m. Eastern and also will be posted on the company's website at www.PNMResources.com. Management will host a live conference call at 11 a.m. Eastern to discuss financial results and other company updates.

Investors and analysts can participate in the live conference call by pre-registering using the following link to receive a special dial-in number and PIN: http://dpregister.com/10148353.

Telephone participants who are unable to pre-register may participate in the live conference call by dialing (877) 276-8648 or (412) 317-5474 fifteen minutes prior to the event and referencing "the PNM Resources third quarter conference call." Listeners are encouraged to visit the website at least 30 minutes before the event to register, download and install any necessary audio software.

A live webcast of the call will be available at http://www.pnmresources.com/investors/events.cfm.

Background:

PNM Resources (NYSE: PNM) is an energy holding company based in Albuquerque, N.M., with 2019 consolidated operating revenues of $1.5 billion. Through its regulated utilities, PNM and TNMP, PNM Resources has approximately 2,811 megawatts of generation capacity and provides electricity to approximately 790,000 homes and businesses in New Mexico and Texas. For more information, visit the company's website at www.PNMResources.com.

CONTACTS:

Analysts

Lisa Goodman

(505) 241-2160

Media

Ray Sandoval

(505) 241-2782

Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995

Statements made in this news release for PNM Resources, Inc. ("PNMR"), Public Service Company of New Mexico ("PNM"), or Texas-New Mexico Power Company ("TNMP") (collectively, the "Company") that relate to future events or expectations, projections, estimates, intentions, goals, targets, and strategies are made pursuant to the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Readers are cautioned that all forward-looking statements are based upon current expectations and estimates. PNMR, PNM, and TNMP assume no obligation to update this information. Because actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements, PNMR, PNM, and TNMP caution readers not to place undue reliance on these statements. PNMR's, PNM's, and TNMP's business, financial condition, cash flow, and operating results are influenced by many factors, which are often beyond their control, that can cause actual results to differ from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. For a discussion of risk factors and other important factors affecting forward-looking statements, please see the Company's Form 10-K and Form 10-Q filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which factors are specifically incorporated by reference herein.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

GAAP refers to generally accepted accounting principles in the U.S. Ongoing earnings is a non-GAAP financial measure that excludes the impact of net unrealized mark-to-market gains and losses on economic hedges, the net change in unrealized gains and losses on investment securities, pension expense related to previously disposed of gas distribution business, and certain non-recurring, infrequent, and other items that are not indicative of fundamental changes in the earnings capacity of the Company's operations. The Company uses ongoing earnings and ongoing earnings per diluted share (or ongoing diluted earnings per share) to evaluate the operations of the Company and to establish goals, including those used for certain aspects of incentive compensation, for management and employees. While the Company believes these financial measures are appropriate and useful for investors, they are not measures presented in accordance with GAAP. The Company does not intend for these measures, or any piece of these measures, to represent any financial measure as defined by GAAP. Furthermore, the Company's calculations of these measures as presented may or may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies. The Company uses ongoing earnings guidance to provide investors with management's expectations of ongoing financial performance over the period presented. While the Company believes ongoing earnings guidance is an appropriate measure, it is not a measure presented in accordance with GAAP. The Company does not intend for ongoing earnings guidance to represent an expectation of net earnings as defined by GAAP. Since the future differences between GAAP and ongoing earnings are frequently outside the control of the Company, management is generally not able to estimate the impact of the reconciling items between forecasted GAAP net earnings and ongoing earnings guidance, nor their probable impact on GAAP net earnings without unreasonable effort, therefore, management is generally not able to provide a corresponding GAAP equivalent for ongoing earnings guidance.

SOURCE PNM Resources, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.pnmresources.com


Win McNamee/Getty ImagesBy MEG CUNNINGHAM, ABC News



(WASHINGTON) -- Members of the Proud Boys are celebrating comments from President Donald Trump at Tuesday night's presidential debate in which he told the group to "stand back and stand by."



Asked bluntly by moderator Chris Wallace if he would condemn white supremacists during the debate, Trump refused.



"Who would you like me to condemn? Who?" Trump asked.



Biden asked the president to denounce the Proud Boys, referring to the far-right extremist group, which recently rallied in Portland, Oregon, and has been tied to acts of violence.



"Proud Boys. Stand back and stand by," Trump responded. "But I'll tell you what, somebody has got to do something about antifa and the left because this is not a right-wing problem, this is a left-wing problem."



ABC News' Kyra Phillips asked Trump Wednesday at the White House if he would like to denounce white supremacy and Trump said he's "always" denounced it.



When asked specifically about the Proud Boys, Trump said he "doesn't know who they are" and that they should "stand down" and "let law enforcement do their work."



Still, the Proud Boys were energized by the president's comments, unveiling a new message on T-shirts following the debate: "President Trump, standing by."



On the conservative social media site Parler screenshots posted by a reporter found one user who said "this makes me so happy." Another said, "well sir! we're ready!"



According to The Washington Post, Trump's comments inspired memes including one of Trump in a polo shirt, which is part of the Proud Boys' signature aesthetic.



"The Proud Boys have already responded with the emblems that they're creating with the slogan and tweeting about it. And you know white supremacist groups, and far-right extremist groups in general, when something like this happens they really do see it as a legitimation as a -- an endorsement. And it really does embolden them," said Peter Simi, who studies extremism at Chapman University.



The Proud Boys is a men's group who call themselves "Western chauvinist" and say they are defending values like freedom and liberty. Formed in 2016 by Gavin McInnes, who later distanced himself from the group, they deny any connection to the alt-right and claim to be anti-political correctness and anti-white guilt, according to the Southern Poverty Law Center.



"But one of the things we're not is white supremacists and fascists," Proud Boys chairman Enrique Tarrio said to The Washington Post.



"They, of course, claim they're not white supremacists, which is pretty typical for white supremacist groups to do more broadly," Simi told ABC News.



Still, "rank-and-file Proud Boys and leaders regularly spout white nationalist memes and maintain affiliations with known extremists. They are known for anti-Muslim and misogynistic rhetoric," according to the SPLC.



Members of the group have been associated with acts of violence, including at the 2017 Unite the Rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, where a 32-year-old woman was killed when a driver rammed into a crowd of counter-protesters. The driver was found guilty of first-degree murder.



Former Proud Boy member Jason Kessler helped organize the event, "which brought together Klansmen, antisemites, Southern racists and militias. Kessler was only 'expelled' from the group after the violence and near-universal condemnation of the Charlottesville rally-goers," according to the SPLC.



In 2018, its members participated in street brawls during protests in Portland, Oregon, Seattle and New York City.



Following the brawl in New York City, two of its members were sentenced to prison and seven others pleaded guilty, according to the Anti-Defamation League. Violence involving the Proud Boys was also present in Portland, Oregon, this summer, when right-wing and left-wing protesters clashed amid unrest over racism in policing in America, though no one from the group was arrested, according to the ADL.



"Violence in terms of becoming a member and really the violence that they promote towards people that they view as un-American whether it's communists, whether it's antifa, or 'leftists,'" Simi, said.



For these far-right and extremist groups, Simi said, comments like the president's are seen as an endorsement.



"This is something that for these types of groups, it's music to their ears," he said.



Earlier this summer, an intelligence bulletin obtained by ABC News cited the threat of white supremacists at protests.



"Based upon current information, we assess the greatest threat of lethal violence continues to emanate from lone offenders with racially or ethnically motivated violent extremist ideologies and (domestic violent extremists) with personalized ideologies," according to the bulletin, which was obtained by ABC News.



Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., condemned the president on Wednesday, saying his refusal to denounce the groups was "beyond his capacity."



"In a national debate he not only refused to condemn a group of far-right white supremacists, he told them to stand by," Schumer said. "As much of the country was in despair last night at the president's juvenile behavior, one group was celebrating, the Proud Boys. That's who was celebrating President Trump's debate performance: white supremacists."



Trump's refusal to condemn white supremacist groups comes as Americans nationwide have been in the streets protesting over the deaths of Black Americans at the hands of police and as the president has sought to undermine the legitimacy of the election -- which is already underway -- and has called on supporters to go out to watch the polls on Election Day.



Simi said the president's comments are unprecedented and his later refusal to condemn civil unrest following the election was just as dangerous.



"He essentially refused to do that. So he's already told the Proud Boys to stand by and now he's saying 'Hey civil disorder is not off the table. If this is a bogus election, that's a legitimate option and I've got my proud boys on standby,'" he said.



Allison Pecorin, Elizabeth Thomas, Will Steakin, Josh Margolis and contributed reporting



Copyright  2020, ABC Audio. All rights reserved.
Its not necessarily charming, but dynamic, progressive, and modern.

That was how Peter Laing, the strategic and creative lead with Robot Interactive + Marketing, described the Town of Holyroods new Oceans Holyrood Initiative (OHI) brand, unveiled Friday, September. 25.

The new logo features two overlapping asymmetrical triangles, one teal, one a darker blue, which represent the narrows.

Branding is a lot about what your trying to communicate, in direct ways and indirect ways, said Laing, who explained that municipalities, such as Montreal and Vancouver, often have different tourism, economic development, and municipal brands.

One thought that guided the entire process, said Laing, was, the best way to predict the future, is to create it.

It seemed like this was really the philosophy for the town, said Laing.

The launch included a new website and several promotional videos.

We have the will, the partners, the desire, and the dedicated vison, and today, we are realizing the success of our vision as we launch the new Holyrood brand, said Gary Corbett, the towns chief administrative officer.

Other speakers included Holyrood Mayor Gary Goobie, Marine Institute Vice President Glenn Blackwood, Fundamental Inc. owner Ashley Smith, Avalon MP Ken McDonald, and Harbour Main MHA Helen Conway Ottenheimer.

The town boasts four projects in development: The Stores at Holyrood (a 20 acre commercial site); the Blue Ocean Industrial Park (a potentially 1,000 acre development); the Cold Ocean Research and Innovation Hub (a proposed 40 acre development); and the Beach Head Innovation Centre and Suites (a co-working and meeting space), in addition to the Marine Institutes Holyrood Marine Base, which is poised to expand by 36,000 square feet in the near future. That expansion will include a launch base to test new technology and products.

Mayor Goobie said the OHI will have an economic impact on the entire region, a sentiment echoed by McDonald and Conway Ottenheimer.

As a council, for the last several years when the Marine Institute came onboard, the words that kept resonating with us was regional economic diversification strategy, said Goobie. What we expect from this, and we really anticipate that this is going to happen; were going to see families will move here from across the province, and abroad. We know thats going to happen. Were concentrating as a council now on the commercial and business side of growth and development. Why? Because we want to see long-term sustainable employment opportunities. Not only for Holyrood, but its going to happen for the whole region of Conception Bay Centre and beyond. From that, well see an enhancement in our tax base, and of course, the bigger our tax base, the more we can do with our community. This is going to have a very positive impact on Holyrood and beyond.

The cost of the rebranding, including videos, website development, banners, and promotional materials including press kits, letterhead, and business cards was $66,200, plus HST.

The cost was split three ways between the town, and federal and provincial governments, with the federal government footing 52 percent of the bill, the province 25 percent, and the town 23 percent.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry showed off their distinctive bird nest artwork during an interview in which they demanded an end to structural racism in Britain today.

The Duke, 36, and Duchess of Sussex, 39, have offered royal fans several glimpses into the plush interiors into their dream $14 million Californian mansion during recent appearances.

However today's interview saw the couple reveal perhaps their most distinctive feature in their home as yet, a set of three $360 black-and-white prints of birds nests.

The prints are from Californian Barloga Studios, a photography and print studio owned by father-son duo Dennis and Roy Barloga.

Meghan Markle, 39, and Prince Harry, 36, showed off their distinctive bird nest artwork during an interview in which they demanded an end to structural racism in Britain today

The bird nest prints are part of a collection by Barloga Studios called Nest Studies, and cost $350 each

The brand specialise in 'nature' images, with the Duke and Duchess selecting three of the Nest Studies prints, which cost $360 each, for their living space.

The three frames on show in Prince Harry and Meghan's home are likely snaps taken by Roy, who specialises in infrared photographs and is best known for his series of 'trilogies' that span a wide variety of subjects.

According to their website, the duo are currently combining their talents to 'make prints on a variety of 'unphotographic' substrates' including handmade paper, film, wood, and fabric.

The couple have framed their huge nest prints in the brand's frameless leather and steel hangers which are described online as 'offering an easy and inexpensive way to display our prints without the hassle of custom framing'.

The prints are from Californian Barloga Studios, a photography and print studio owned by father-son duo Dennis and Roy Barloga (pictured together, left Roy and right, Dennis)

The three frames on show in Prince Harry and Meghan's home are likely snaps taken by Roy, who specialises in infrared photographs and is best known for his series of 'trilogies' that span a wide variety of subjects (pictured left and right, Roy and Dennis creating one of their bird nest images)

The trendy industrial style frames cost $50 a pop.

The Duke and Duchess spoke from their sprawling nine-bedroom and 16-bathroom mansion in upscale Santa Barbara which they share with their son Archie.

The mansion is known as 'The Chateau' for $14.65million on June 18, making them neighbors with celebrities Oprah Winfrey and Ellen DeGeneres, according to DailyMail.com.

Earlier this month, the couple revealed another piece of artwork in their home which underlined their love of America, when the Duchess of Sussex made her latest Zoom appearance with a framed print entitled 'I Love You, California' behind her.

Meghan and Prince Harry's new home sits on 5.4 acres of land and immaculately clipped hedges border the estate's stone-pillared entry gates (pictured)

The couple previously revealed another piece of artwork in their home, the title of the work is the anthem of her home US state. Published in 1913, the tune was adopted by the sunshine state in 1951 and confirmed in 1987 as its official song

Propped on the mantelpiece, the title of the work is the anthem of her home US state. Published in 1913, the tune was adopted by the sunshine state in 1951 and confirmed in 1987 as its official song.

Today the couple spoke out to demand an end to 'structural racism' in Britain.

In a wide-ranging interview from their California mansion, Prince Harry revealed his 'awakening' to issues faced by black people after meeting his wife.

Meanwhile, Meghan Markle praised Black Lives Matter protests in America after the death of George Floyd as 'beautiful' - but said this only applied to 'peaceful protest' and admitted many people found them 'inflammatory'.

Speaking from their home today, the couple spoke out to demand an end to 'structural racism' in Britain.

Speaking on Zoom to the Evening Standard, Harry also weighed on Diversity's controversial BLM dance routine on Britain's Got Talent and said he was 'surprised' by the negative comments it had received.

In an article for the newspaper, the couple said: 'As long as structural racism exists, there will be generations of young people of colour who do not start their lives with the same equality of opportunity as their white peers. And for as long as that continues, untapped potential will never get to be realised.'

The interview is the latest in a long series of political interventions by the couple, including last week when Harry weighed in on the US election by urging voters to 'reject hate speech'.

The comments - which broke royal protocol - were widely interpreted as a call to vote out Donald Trump, and prompted Buckingham Palace to immediately distance themselves from Harry by noting he was 'not working member of the Royal Family'.
RACINE  A Racine woman allegedly assaulted her neighbor and threatened to kill them.

Anna M. Villa, 57, of the 800 block of College Avenue, has been charged with misdemeanor counts of battery, obstructing an officer, disorderly conduct and three misdemeanor counts of bail jumping.

According to a criminal complaint:

At 10:50 on Tuesday, officers were dispatched to the 800 block of College Avenue. Upon arrival, an officer spoke to the 911 caller who stated Villa was physically assaulting a female neighbor.

According to police, the woman who said she had been attacked by Villa said she was on the landing of the stairway to the building when, without warning, Villa began pulling her hair and hitting her in the face. Once she fell down, Villa began kicking her several times in the abdomen.

The officer made contact with Villa who appeared to be highly intoxicated and was yelling loudly for someone to retrieve her house keys. She was then taken into custody.

While in custody, she reportedly was yelling profanities and demanding someone find her keys. She continued yelling profanities, racial slurs and, according to police, saying she still planned to kill the other woman when she returns home.

Villa refused multiple times to cooperate with the jails Breathalyzer test and had to be transported to Ascension emergency room for medical clearance due to how intoxicated she appeared to be. Throughout the entire transportation, she continued yelling profanities and calling an officer multiple profanities. She refused to exit the squad car on her own and refused to comply with orders, police said.

Villa was given a $500 signature bond and a $100 cash bond in Racine County Circuit Court on Wednesday.

A status conference is set for Oct. 12 at the Racine County Law Enforcement Center, 717 Wisconsin Ave., online court records indicate.

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US Secretary of Defence Mark Esper on Thursday started a visit to Algeria to renew their alliance as the North African state tries to mediate in war-ravaged Libya and Mali while battling extremists at home.

Esper, the first American defence chief to visit Algiers since 2006, hopes "to deepen cooperation with Algeria on key regional security issues, such as the threat posed by extremist groups", a senior US military official said.

The minister, on a North Africa tour, arrived in Algiers after talks in neighbouring Tunisia and he is scheduled to travel on to Morocco.

He was to meet Algeria's President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and the chief of staff, General Said Chanegriha, after having laid a wreath at the country's independence war memorial overlooking Algiers.

"Algeria is a committed counter-terrorism partner," General Stephen Townsend, head of US Africa Command, said on a recent visit to Algiers.

US military officials frequently visit Tunisia and Morocco, where defence cooperation with Washington is well established.

But Esper became the first defence secretary to visit Algeria, an ally of Russia and China, since Donald Rumsfeld almost 15 years ago.

"Strengthening this relationship is very important to us," Townsend said.

"Degrading violent extremist organisations... and enhancing regional stability is a mutual must."

'Pivotal state'

Algeria is trying to reactivate its role on the regional diplomatic scene, including as a mediator in the conflicts in Mali and Libya.

Jihadist groups in Libya and the wider Sahel region have become an increasing concern since a NATO-backed uprising toppled and killed longtime dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011.

Conflict in Libya since then has sucked in multiple nations backing opposing forces, including Turkey and Egypt.

Mali, supported by France and UN peacekeepers, is struggling with an eight-year-old Islamist insurgency that has claimed thousands of lives.

"The Americans want to reposition themselves in the region, which has seen the arrival of new players like Turkey," said Algerian political scientist Mansour Kedidir.

"Algeria has always been considered by the Americans as a 'pivotal state' whose vulnerability can engulf the whole region if it is affected by jihadists."

The US and Algeria have historic ties -- a treaty of friendship was signed in 1795 -- while during the 1954-1962 war of independence from colonial rulers France, Washington reportedly pressured Paris to negotiate with Algerian nationalists.

"The United States has a strong bilateral security relationship with Algeria that dates at least to the early days of the Global War on Terror," said Michael Shurkin, from the California-based RAND Corporation policy think-tank.

The US relationship is crucial for another reason, Shurkin noted.

"The US role must also be seen in the context of Algeria's reluctance to work with France, which makes the US necessary for France with respect to French hopes for an integrated regional response to jihadism," Shurkin said.

France has 5,100 soldiers deployed across the Sahel as part of its anti-jihadist Operation Barkhane.

Washington is also likely interested in selling weapons to Algeria, which currently receives some 90 percent of its supplies in this segment from Russia.

Just ahead of Esper's planned visit, Chanegriha met with a top Russian military delegation for discussions on the state of "military cooperation between the two countries", Algeria's defence ministry said.

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Girl Up, the gender equality youth initiative of the United Nations Foundation, is celebrating a decade of advocating for young women across the world. Since its start in 2010, Girl Up has trained more than 75,000 girls globally to become leaders, advocates and activists for gender equality in education, sports, STEM for social good and the elimination of gender-based violence.

Girls don't join Girl Up to become leaders; they join because they want to make the world a better place for every girl, everywhere, and they become leaders in the process, said Melissa Kilby, Executive Director of Girl Up and 2020 Fortune 40 Under 40 recipient. Im so proud of what our girls have accomplished, and I look forward to seeing the impact they will make over the next 10 years.

In honor of this milestone anniversary, Girl Up launched the Girls Equal Change campaign featuring Club member and alumnae stories to highlight the organizations key accomplishments and fundraise for Girl Up Club members future initiatives. Internationally-renowned photographer and Girl Up Champion, Nigel Barker, has joined the campaign to conduct photoshoots and provide creative direction. To fund new programs and bolster the progress toward its mission of driving social change and achieving gender equality, the organization set a goal to raise $200,000 as a part of the campaign.

Over the past 10 years, Girl Ups platform and resources enabled girls to start a movement wherever they are  galvanizing young leaders as a force for social good, united by the common goal of achieving equal rights, access and opportunities for every girl. The notable achievements of Girl Up leaders include:



500,000+ advocacy actions taken

$11 million raised for UN programs for girls' education, health and safety

Two U.S. bills signed into law protecting refugee girls access to education and demanding girls right to be counted at birth

Global virtual and in-person Leadership Summits that have brought together more than 30,000 girls around the world

Thousands of local girl-led movements for gender equality and other social issues utilizing Girl Up's leadership development training

Girl Up has supported more than 4,000 Clubs in 125 countries around the world with a network of one million supporters, including celebrities like Cara Delevingne, Monique Coleman, Yara Shahidi, and leaders like Michelle Obama, Hillary Clinton and Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka. Over its tenure, the organization has partnered with corporations including Disney, WWE and Caterpillar.

To learn more about Girl Up, visit GirlUp.org. To support initiatives through donation, visit GirlUp.org/10years.

About Girl Up

Girl Up is a global leadership development initiative, positioning girls to be leaders in the movement for gender equality. With resources in six languages and 4,000 Girl Up Clubs in more than 125 countries, weve trained 75,000 girls of all backgrounds to create tangible change for girls everywhere.

Girl Up provides leadership training and gives girls the tools to become gender equality advocates and activists. Through our programs, girls broaden their social impact skill set, benefit from a platform to tell their stories, and apply STEM for social good. Our girl leaders create real policy change at local and national levels, help raise millions of dollars to support United Nations programs that reach tens of thousands of girls around the world, and build community-based movements.

Girl Up was founded by the United Nations Foundation in 2010 and continues to work across a global community of partners to achieve gender equality worldwide.
The Swiss city of Geneva is to introduce a minimum wage of 23 Swiss francs ($25) an hour, equal to roughly 3,772 Swiss francs ($4,100) a month for a 41-hour working week.

Nearly two-thirds of the canton of Geneva on Sunday voted in favor of introducing the minimum wage, which is reported to be the highest in the world.

It is set to be implemented this month, according to the Groupement transfrontalier europeen website, an organization representing cross-border workers in France and Switzerland.

The measure had actually been rejected by voters twice in 2011 and 2014.

However, the coronavirus pandemic has further highlighted Geneva's poverty problem, with reports of thousands queuing for food.

Geneva is known as one of the most expensive cities in the world and ranked ninth on HR consulting firm Mercer's 2020 global cost of living survey.

Michel Charrat, president of the Groupement transfrontalier europeen, told the Guardian that the vote to pass the measure represented a "mark of solidarity" with Geneva's poorer residents.

"Covid has shown that a certain section of the Swiss population cannot live in Geneva," he said.

Geneva's new minimum wage is more than triple that in the U.S., at $7.25 per hour and more than double the U.K.'s highest basic hourly rate of 8.72 ($11.20).
The National Commission for Women (NCW) on Thursday sought an explanation from the Uttar Pradesh Police on the urgency to cremate the body of the Hathras gangrape victim in the middle of the night in the absence of her family members.

IMAGE: Police personnel during the cremation of a 19-year-old Dalit woman who was brutally gang-raped two weeks ago, in the wee hours, in Hathras district, on Wednesday. Photograph: PTI Photo

The Dalit woman was allegedly raped at a village in Hathras by four men on September 14, and she breathed her last on Tuesday at Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital.

Her body was cremated in the early hours of Wednesday, with her family alleging that the local police forced them to conduct the last rites in the dead of the night.

Local police officers, however, told PTI the cremation was carried out 'as per the wishes of the family'.

The NCW, in a statement, said it is shocked at the brutal gang rape of a 20-year-old woman in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh who died in Delhi after fighting for life for two weeks.

The incident underlines the grim state of women in the society, it said.

The commission said it also came across a disturbing report on police officials cremating her body in the middle of the night without the permission and presence of her family members.

It has been reported that the victim's body was cremated at 2.30 am by the police without the presence of any family member.

'The victim's family had reportedly appealed to the district magistrate for taking her body home for performing the last rites, however the police went ahead with the cremation while most of her family members were away,' it said.

'The commission has now written to Director General of Police, Uttar Pradesh seeking an explanation on the urgency to cremate the body of the victim in the middle of the night that too in the absence of her family.

'NCW has asked the administration to send a reply on the same at the earliest,' it said.

As the news of the victim's death spread, protests broke out in Delhi as well as in Hathras with all sections of society, including politicians, sports, cine stars, and activists expressing anguish and demanding justice for her.
It is obvious to anyone who travels around the country: there are construction sites everywhere. This amount of construction work naturally comes with an equal amount of rubble.

And that is where the problem arises: landfills for inert waste do not have a good image, and nobody wants them near their homes. But where to put the 7.5 million tonnes of rubble excavated each year on Luxembourg's construction sites?

Viviane Pundel, manager of the company Bonaria et Fils, explains that when people talk about rubble, they say that they do not want to have it on their doorstep. Rubble, she adds, is not rubbish, it is dirt.

Dany Sebastiani of Bonaria et Fils explains that when it comes to rubble, the company recycles everything it can, in order to take as little as possible to a landfill.

The landfill where the most construction site waste is currently being dumped in Luxembourg is that of Colmar-Berg. Lorry driver David Marques knows the road well. On average, it takes a truck an hour and a half to come and dump its load. It is not uncommon for trucks to have to come from the south of the country to Colmar-Berg. Transport tourism, as it is referred to in the industry.

The problem, according to Pundel, is that there are fewer and fewer dumpsites. The one in Mondercange, for example, has been closed for years. Other landfills, such as Sanem, are almost full. At these places, the problem of tonnage limitation is also an issue, i.e. you have to make a request in order to be able to offload rubble.

Construction site waste is accumulating to approximately 7.5 million tonnes per year. When there is no other option, the lorries go abroad, near Metz. This takes time and costs money. And in the end, it is the customer who pays the bill, when housing prices are already skyrocketing. Not to mention the impact this rubble transport has on traffic and CO2 emissions.

You watch the full report in Luxembourgish here.
It may take months for the water in a Texas city to return to normal after a brain-eating amoeba responsible for the death of a 6-year-old boy was found in its supply in September.

Authorities in Lake Jackson said Tuesday that the boil advisory the city is under could last up to three more weeks. After that, increased levels of chlorine will be pumped through the system to scour through and kill any traces of the deadly microbe, which could take an additional 60 days.

"The path forward for the citizens of Lake Jackson is not going to be one that's short," Texas Commission on Environmental Quality executive director Toby Baker told reporters Tuesday.

Naegleria fowleri is a deadly amoeba that can cause primary amebic meningoencephalitis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an infection that destroys brain tissue and can kill within five days.

More on the amoeba: Texas governor declares disaster after brain-eating amoeba that killed 6-year-old found in city's water

Baker said it was the first time to his knowledge that the amoeba has appeared in public drinking water in Texas.

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality was first alerted Friday evening to the presence of N. fowleri in the Brazosport Water Authority supply. Environmental officials initially warned all of the system's users not to use the water, but later said the problem had been narrowed to Lake Jackson's supply.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott issued a disaster declaration for the area on Sunday. In his statement, Abbott said three of 11 water tests found N. fowleri.

One of the positive tests was at the home of Josiah McIntyre, the 6-year-old who died Sept. 8 after he contracted the amoeba. A splash-pad in the city that Josiah visited also had a positive test, and Abbott said the splash-pad has since been closed.

According to the Houston Chronicle, Josiah's relatives said he was tested for strep, COVID-19 and other diseases when he got sick with a fever, headaches and vomiting, but by the time doctors realized it was N. fowleri, it was too late.

Story continues

"We just want people to be aware that its out there," his grandmother, Natalie McIntyre, said Saturday during a fundraiser, the Chronicle reported.

Baker said the samples the state has on record from the city's water supply in the months before Josiah's death show nothing of concern. "So we will definitely be investigating that further," he said.

Abbott added that authorities "want to get to the bottom" of what happened.

"It just rips your heart to know the loss of this life," Abbott said. "This is a total tragedy for Josiah as well as his family. But we, as leaders in the state of Texas, must seize upon the strategy to make sure this never happens again."

Authorities were working to provide free drinking water for residents of the city, and Abbott said in a statement that the Texas Division of Emergency Management had set up a pickup location where residents could get one free case of drinking water a day. Some private businesses were also providing free water, Abbott added.

N. fowleri and warm weather: Diseases like West Nile, EEE and flesh-eating bacteria are flourishing due to climate change

Dr. John Hellerstedt, commissioner of the state's health services department, assuaged any fears that the amoeba could persist in the city's water system.

"The risk is vanishingly small," Hellerstedt said. "There's just not going to be a chance that the water is going to contain this amoeba in the public water system after they finish the kinds of remediation efforts that they put forward."

The CDC says N. fowleri is commonly found in lakes in the South, especially in the summer, but getting sick from it is rare, with only 34 documented cases in the U.S. from 2009 to 2018. Those who do get sick are generally infected through their nose after swimming or diving in warm freshwater. The CDC says N. fowleri also can spread via inadequately chlorinated swimming pool water or contaminated tap water.

An infection cannot occur from swallowing infected water, the CDC says.

The microbe can cause symptoms similar to bacterial meningitis, including headaches, fever, nausea and vomiting, making an initial diagnosis challenging, the CDC says. The infection progresses rapidly, eventually causing neck stiffness, seizures, hallucinations and coma.

Contributing: The Associated Press

Follow USA TODAY's Ryan Miller on Twitter @RyanW_Miller

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Brain-eating amoeba: Lake Jackson water may take months to clean
The next serological survey to check for the prevalence of antibodies against the novel among people will start in Delhi within a fortnight, Health Minister Satyendar Jain said on Thursday.

Seroprevalence of antibodies to COVID-19 reduced to 25.1 per cent in September from nearly 29 per cent last month among people in the national capital, the Delhi High Court was informed on Wednesday.

These are the findings of the third round of sero survey carried out by the AAP government in the national capital between September 1 and September 7.

The first sero survey was conducted by the Delhi government in collaboration with the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

The next two surveys were conducted by the Delhi government.

"In the first survey conducted, the data was collected from 11 districts but for the September survey, we divided Delhi into 280 parts and the geographical area covered was more. The next sero survey will also be conducted on the same format and will start in the next 10-15 days," Jain told reporters here.

On the increase in the number of fatalities recorded in the last few days, he said, "In September, there was a spike in cases across the country. In Delhi, there were 4,200 cases reported and the patients were hospitalised at that time. They succumbed to the virus after 15-20 days. The number of cases have seen a decline."



On Wednesday, the national capital recorded 41 COVID-19 fatalities. On Tuesday, 48 deaths were reported, the highest number of fatalities recorded in a day since July 16, when the city saw 58 fatalities. On September 26, Delhi recorded 46 deaths, 42 the next day and 37 on September 28.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Detroit-area bank will appeal to a younger customer base through the implementation of Finastra's Fusion Phoenix core, Fusion Digital Banking and other solutions

LAKE MARY, Fla., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Finastra announced that First Independence Bank has selected its Fusion Phoenix core, Fusion Digital Banking, Fusion DepositPro and Fusion TotalTransact, as well as a number of other solutions, in order to provide its customers with a robust and fully digital banking experience. As a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), committed to serving its local community, the bank will realize operational efficiencies through a more streamlined service, and better serve its customers with modern banking services.

"First Independence Bank has been an integral part of the Detroit community for 50 years, with an affinity for supporting our under-served and minority populations," said Elizabeth A. Zuchelkowski VP, Chief Financial Officer, First Independence Bank. "As Detroit continues to undergo a true renaissance, we recognize the need to offer modern banking services to appeal to an evolving demographic that is shifting increasingly younger. By offering our account holders a single, seamless, and easy-to-use banking experience we will better serve our existing customer base while appealing to that more technologically-driven demographic."

Beyond the importance of the digital channel, which was magnified when the pandemic hit, First Independence Bank recognized that it was being restricted by its legacy core and was looking to transform. Fusion Phoenix stood out from other solutions in the market for being built on Microsoft technology, resulting in an intuitive user interface and easy access to data and reports. An integrated CRM will empower the bank as it expands its business and will help to deepen existing customer relationships. Additionally, because the core will reside in the Microsoft Azure cloud, the bank will be able to scale efficiently as it grows and improve time-to-market with new products and offerings.

"Finastra believes that financial institutions and technology vendors have a responsibility to redefine finance for good, and we are always excited to work with banks that share our passion," said Chris Zingo, SVP and GM of Americas Field Operations, Finastra. "First Independence Bank had a clear vision for the type of service it needed to provide in order to exceed the expectations of its customers and best serve its local community. We were able to work closely to help make this vision a reality by creating a suite of solutions - from core and digital to account opening, bill payment and more - to deliver a flexible, robust and fully integrated set of banking capabilities. This not only met the bank's specific needs and budget requirements, but it also promises to drive a strong return on investment and an enhanced customer experience."

About Finastra

Finastra is building an open platform that accelerates collaboration and innovation in financial services, creating better experiences for people, businesses and communities. Supported by the broadest and deepest portfolio of financial services software, Finastra delivers this vitally important technology to financial institutions of all sizes across the globe, including 90 of the world's top 100 banks. Our open architecture approach brings together a number of partners and innovators. Together we are leading the way in which applications are written, deployed and consumed in financial services to evolve with the changing needs of customers. Learn more at finastra.com

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Britain will work with Republican President Donald Trump or his opponent Democrat Joe Biden in order to clinch a US trade deal, trade minister Liz Truss said on Wednesday, declining to comment directly on a chaotic first US presidential debate.

"We're working with both parties in the United States, both the Democrats and the Republicans. There is strong support for a trade deal with the UK," Truss told ITV in an interview, adding she had not watched the first debate between Trump and Biden and would not comment on it.

"I will work with whoever is in the White House... It is not our job as ministers in the UK to intervene in foreign politics. Our job is to bat for British interests."
TDT | Manama

Bahrain is experiencing a reduction in crime rates compared with 2009, despite population growth, Interior Minister General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa said yesterday. The Interior Minister was speaking during a Foreign Affairs Ministry workshop entitled The rule of law and the protection of rights in the judiciary system administration.

The online event was held under the patronage of General Shaikh Rashid and Foreign Minister Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani. The Interior Minister said that law enforcement guarantees a better administration of the judiciary systems to fight crimes. He highlighted the importance of the workshops topic for being linked to the Interior Ministrys strategy and approach.

He reviewed two dimensions; including the policy of the Interior Ministry in ensuring capabilities and setting procedures to reinforce the rule of law and the protection of human rights. The Interior Minister commented: To be vigilant of new and emerging threats in technology, such as cybercrimes, we have drafted strategies for the future that meet challenges through the adoption of smart policing concept and expansion in the use of artificial intelligence.

The Interior Minister asserted that the workshop was part of the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa as part of the National Action Charter that protects rights and is like a roadmap for social, economic, political, and human values. It also reinforces the rule of the law and human rights protection.

He highlighted that the Royal Academy of Police had organised various workshops, specialised programmes, and training courses on human rights. The academy also introduced a human rights diploma, reformation and rehabilitation diploma, and social services of security organisations diploma. He said that the rule of law is the foundation, as citizens should protect the law, and considers it as the basis for their behaviours.

This leads us to the noble goals of the reform project of HM the King that reinforce the rule of law to achieve justice, transparency and equality in all state organisations. The Interior Minister said that the police work depends on mutual trust and respect between police personnel and citizens to promote the rule of law.

He continued that enforcing the rule of law through equality, justice, and integrity creates transparency and equality. He highlighted the essential role of the media in promoting the human rights culture by presenting accurate information.

He called upon the media to deal with challenges by tackling systematic approach of some foreign organisations and media that have been in recent years changing facts to influence the internal security in Bahrain. Meanwhile, the Foreign Minister asserted the dedication of the ministry to reinforce partnership with all law enforcement authorities to promote Bahrains human rights position regionally and internationally.

He also highlighted the efforts of the Foreign Ministry to reinforce human rights diplomacy in the foreign policy of Bahrain. The event was part of a series of workshops to set the National Human Rights Plan that is being held in association with various concerned authorities to get their views and expertise. The event attracted lawyers, legal experts, members of the Shura Council and Council of Representatives, concerned regional officials, and the press.
In the first, Justin Clark, a lawyer for the Trump campaign, told a conservative group this year of plans to leverage about 50,000 volunteers all the way through, from early vote through Election Day, to be able to watch the polls. The head of the party in Philadelphia said Wednesday that there would be multiple poll watchers at every site in the city, which would mean at least 1,600 Republican watchers in Philadelphia alone.
Plastic straws, stirrers and cotton buds have officially been banned in the UK, so we have found eco-friendly alternatives to buy now. (Getty Images)

Yahoo Lifestyle is committed to finding you the best products at the best prices. We may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page. Pricing and availability are subject to change.

The use of single-use plastic straws, stirrers and cotton buds is banned in England from 1 October 2020 onwards.

The ban will also make it illegal for businesses to sell these items, in a bid to tackle environmental issues and protect marine wildlife, as part of a 25-Year Environment Plan.

However, hospitals, bars and restaurants can provide plastic straws to those who require them, such as those with disabilities or other medical conditions.

According to the governments website, 4.7 billion plastic straws, 316 million plastic stirrers and 1.8 billion cotton buds are used in England every year  and most of those end up in the ocean.

The ban encourages us to use alternative items to plastic household products that are environmentally-friendly, and there are plenty of options.

We have found a selection of straw and cotton bud alternatives to invest in to do your part for the planet.

3 top-rated eco-friendly cotton buds

Pandoo Bamboo Cotton Buds | 9.49 from Amazon

pandoo Bamboo Cotton Buds

Pandoos Cotton Buds are made from 100% biodegradable cotton and organic bamboo. The design is odourless, as well as free from dyes, chemicals and plastics.

Snowfield 600 pk Bamboo Cotton Buds | 4.99 from Amazon

Snowfield 600 pk Bamboo Cotton Buds

Snowfields large pack of cotton buds are ideal for those looking to bulk buy eco-friendly designs, as they are made from natural materials that are eco-friendly.

The cotton bud has a bamboo handle, which is said to be stronger than paper or the previous plastic stick, but can biodegrade.

Humble Bamboo Cotton Swabs | 1.99 from Holland and Barrett

Humble Bamboo Cotton Swabs

Humbles Bamboo Cotton Swabs are 100% biodegradable.

The product has been FSC approved and vegan-certified. Plus, every purchase made goes towards funding projects for the benefit of children in need.

3 top-rated eco-friendly reusable straws

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Maistic Natural Drinking Bamboo Straws 6 Pack | 5.59 from Holland & Barrett

Maistic Natural Drinking Bamboo Straws 6 Pack

Maistics Natural Drinking Bamboo Straws are made from organic bamboo, which is pesticide free, and dried and hollowed out for your use.

The set comes with six straws measuring 21.5cm in length, which is perfect for juices, tea, coffees, milkshakes and cocktails.

S'well Reusable Stainless Steel Set of 4 Straws & Cleaning Brush | 12 from john Lewis & Partners

S'well Reusable Stainless Steel Set of 4 Straws & Cleaning Brush

Swells reusable stainless pack come complete with four straws and a cleaning brush. The design boasts flexible necks to make for easy drinking, plus they are dishwasher friendly.

VEHHE Metal Straw Stainless Steel Straws Drinking Straws Reusable

VEHHEs pack come complete with four stainless steel straws, two of which are straight and two are bent, as well as a cleaning brush.

The straws are reusable, and free from BPA and plastic, there is no oxidation, colourfast or metal aftertaste. This item has received more than 10,000 reviews, one of which read: Must buy for the eco friendly.

Watch: 10 best beauty buys for 10 or under
Facebook on Thursday announced a bevy of new features for groups, including new recommendation prompts that could push more users to discover and join them.

Now, Facebook will recommend public groups to users as they scroll through their News Feed or open their groups tab. The new recommendations come despite recent criticisms that Facebook's existing group recommendation algorithms introduce users to extremist views, such as White supremacy and anti-Semitism.

Groups have become a more important part of Facebook's business over the past few years. When users join a group, they see material from other group members on their News Feeds, alongside the customary posts from their Facebook friends. Often, these groups will be focused on shared interests, such as hobbies or political views, which can increase user engagement.

The company has put a greater spotlight on the feature with an advertising campaign, including a Super Bowl ad in February, and it seems to be working. The company on Thursday said there are now 1.8 billion Facebook users who use groups every month, up from 1.4 billion in May 2018.

But groups have also been criticized for spreading misinformation or calls for harmful action, which can spread rapidly among like-minded people while being hidden from non-group members. In September, the company announced that it would no longer recommend health groups to users, saying "it's crucial that people get their health information from authoritative sources." In August, the company rolled out a new policy that bans groups focused on militias or that support violent acts.

To prevent the new features from causing further damage, Facebook will not recommend any groups with misinformation in them and it will rely on a team of human curators to police which content is included in the recommendations, said Tom Alison, vice president of engineering for the Facebook app.

"All of the work that we do around integrity of recommendations and preventing misinformation or other types of content that we don't want to recommend are going to apply to these new features," Alison told CNBC.
By Express News Service

JAIPUR: Amid the outrage over the Hathras tragedy, two teenage girls have allegedly been gang-raped by two youths in the Baran district of Rajasthan.

The opposition is trying to equate this case with the Hathras case but the Rajasthan Police and government said that the girls, in their statements before the magistrate, have accepted that they had gone with the boys on their own and that medical examination has not confirmed rape of the girls.

The two minor girls, aged 13 and 15, were reportedly taken from Baran to Kota, Jaipur, and Ajmer and were raped for three days. Initially, the two sisters had even admitted on camera that the two boys had abducted, drugged, and raped them for days.

The father of the girls reportedly told the police that the two accused (who are also minors) lured his daughters on the night of September 18 to leave with them. They were then taken to Kota and Jaipur where they were raped by the duo, he said.

ALSO READ | Forensic report shows that Hathras woman was not raped: UP Police

Meanwhile, the family of the two minors alleged that they were threatened not to file a complaint against the accused.

Finally, on September 21, the girls were found in Kota. When they tried to tell the cops about the incident, the accused had allegedly threatened to kill them. But the police claimed that the minor girls denied allegations of rape in their statement before a magistrate.

The girls were handed over to their families after recording their statements. The SP of Baran Police, Dr. Ravi remarked, On the complaint of their father, the two minor girls were quickly recovered from Kota. In their 164 statement before the magistrate, the girls had admitted that they had gone out of their own choice. But we are conducting a detailed probe on all aspects.

With the Hathras tragedy creating a national furore against the UP government, the BJP is keen to embarrass the Congress government in Rajasthan over the Baran crime. Former Union Minister and now BJP spokesperson Rajyavardhan Rathore was quick to attack the Gehlot government. He remarked, The two minor girls from Baran were raped in Jaipur and Kota but the police allowed the culprits to get away after a few days in custody. The police are trying to cover up this horrible gang rape.

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot took to Twitter to counter BJP's allegation. The incident in Hathras is highly condemnable. But unfortunately, the incident in the Baran district of Rajasthan is being compared to the incident in Hathras. Girls in the Baran case have given their statement before the magistrate that they had gone with the boys on their own, Gehlot tweeted in Hindi.

The CM added that Medical examination of the girls was done and it was revealed in the investigation that the boys were also minors. Further investigation is on in the matter.
The UT Health San Antonio Multispecialty and Research Hospital is an exciting new venture for South Texas. This $430 million investment will serve our region with a unique pathway to health, providing intricate, specialty care using innovative technologies and clinical trials not available anywhere else.

While adding 100 medical residents and fellows to our practice, and 800 jobs in our city, the hospital will offer best-in-class, holistic, team-based care grounded in the latest medical research. UT Health San Antonio will bring the expertise of 1,000 faculty specialists and subspecialists to bear on every patient who enters our doors. Patient care will be coordinated within a single electronic medical record.

We are forging a future in which no patient will have to leave San Antonio to receive the most advanced, precision-based care, one that redefines medicine as it focuses on predicting, preventing and curing disease precisely.

Given our stature as the UT Systems flagship academic health center of South Texas, our unique mission blends medical education, research and patient care. Our patient-centered hospital will deliver the most advanced care possible because of our cutting-edge, internationally renowned research in complex diseases.

We will do this by taking our scientists laboratory breakthroughs and translating them into effective new therapies for diseases that disproportionately affect the people of our community, including our military population, seniors and Hispanics.

On ExpressNews.com: UT Health San Antonio to build teaching hospital, strengthen

The best example of our research into complex diseases is cancer, the economic burden of which is expected to increase by 34 percent nationally by 2030. Tragically, despite many advances, our regions cancer burden continues to be significant. But, fortified by the universitys nationally leading physicians in oncology, our hospitals patients will be able to receive the most advanced cancer care, including new drugs, novel cell therapies, and innovative surgical techniques and devices.

The hospital will help us respond to our regions cancer needs with 75 percent of beds devoted to cancer care. The hospital will be connected by a sky bridge to the Mays Cancer Center, home to UT Health San Antonio MD Anderson. The National Cancer Institute this year renewed its designation of the Mays Cancer Center as one of the elite cancer centers in the nation and one of only four NCI-designated Cancer Centers in Texas.

We have received tremendous community support for our hospital, and we are excited our clinical partner of 52 years, University Health System, has agreed to join us in this endeavor. We intend for the hospital to be highly complementary to existing programs at University Hospital with no duplication of services. University Hospital will continue to be the site of delivery for many leading regional programs, including trauma surgery, organ transplantation, and womens and childrens services.

We are grateful the University of Texas System Board of Regents approved $80 million for the hospital. We are also appreciative of the San Antonio Medical Foundation, which donated 12.2 acres of land in the South Texas Medical Center.

In August, the board of regents endorsed the launch of the hospitals design and development phase. A rendering is set to be presented to the board for approval in November to move forward with construction.

This important beacon of health care will take approximately three years to build and  when complete  will serve the many cancer patients of our region through new treatments and rescue therapies. A greater number of stellar physicians and health care professionals will meet the needs of our community in the finest research hospital in the country.

Dr. William L. Henrich is president of UT Health San Antonio. Dr. Robert A. Hromas is dean of the universitys Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine.
Both McCumber and Rego voiced a desire to fill the position quickly. In the interim, McCumber said the human services department has agreed to take on some of the work to offer relief to those remaining at the health department. The goal is to search no longer than 60 days for a new health officer.

Rego said the staff at the health department is fantastic and has confidence they will perform well during the absence of a director.

Lawther said in a phone interview Tuesday that he also knows the county health professionals will do well.

I think the team is absolutely fabulous, Lawther said. Theyre doing great work already and I think they will continue to do that no matter who the leader is.

As for those standing in opposition to the department, Lawther said he knows its a very vocal minority which is making success difficult. Lawther wrote in his resignation letter that he was hopeful when he started with the department in August 2019 that he could focus on multiple issues to make life safer and improved for the general public, but that didnt happen.
Her stratospheric rise in Hollywood has come at the expense of extensive physical comparisons to fellow Australian actress, Margot Robbie.

And their likeness is so uncanny that Samara Weaving has now revealed that she is regularly approached by excited fans who believe they're meeting the Oscar-nominated actress.

'I've tried saying, "No, it's not who you think it is," but because I also have an Australian accent, people still think I'm Margot and that she's being really rude. Now I just stand there like her, ' the 28-year-old star told WHO Magazine.

Seeing double! Samara Weaving [L] says she is regularly approached by excited fans who believe they're meeting the Oscar-nominated actress, Margot Robbie [R]

Samara also said she was once approached for a photo by a young Margot fan who thought she was finally meeting her idol.

'I didn't have the heart to tell her I wasn't her, so I just stood there and tried to copy her [Margot's] smile,' she recalled.

When asked if she was annoyed at the constant comparisons to the blonde bombshell, Samara said: 'Are you kidding? No, it's flattering. I love Margs. She's the best!'

Samara is currently filming her new Hulu series, Nine Perfect Strangers, in New South Wales' Byron Bay.

Samara revealed: 'I've tried saying, "No, it's not who you think it is," but because I also have an Australian accent, people still think I'm Margot and that she's being really rude. Now I just stand there like her'

'Didn't have the heart to tell her': Samara also said she was once approached for a photo by a young Margot fan who thought she was finally meeting her idol. Pictured is Margot

The series will see the rising star appear on screen alongside actors Nicole Kidman, Melissa McCarthy, Michael Shannon and Bobby Cannavale.

It is based on the 2018 novel by Big Little Lies author Liane Moriarty.

Fans can currently see her in the comedy sci-fi Bill & Ted Face the Music alongside Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter.

Despite her soaring public profile, Samara recently told The Daily Telegraph channelling her emotions into characters helps alleviate her anxiety disorder.

Uncanny: Samara's [L] stratospheric rise in Hollywood has come at the expense of extensive physical comparisons to fellow Australian actress, Margot [R]

Flattered: When asked if she was annoyed at the constant comparisons to the blonde bombshell, Samara said: 'Are you kidding? No, it's flattering. I love Margs. She's the best!'

'Oh, I am still terribly awkward. I have general anxiety disorder, so that's never really going to go away,' she said.

'But I am very grateful that I have an outlet for that, which is my job, so I can use these emotions. Sometimes it's a way to escape that, and it's very helpful for me.

'So that nervous, shy child I think is always there, but I have developed tools and methods to cope with it.'

Samara first gained public recognition for her role as Indi Walker on the Australian soap, Home and Away.
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Linkedin Galih Gumelar (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Thu, October 1, 2020 09:12 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c485fd1b 1 National #PKI,PKI,communism,#communist,communist-purge,#1965Tragedy Free

Several years ago, during a meeting with a group of women at an undisclosed location, former National Commission on Violence Against Women (Komnas Perempuan) commissioner Yuniyanti Chuzaifah had an experience she would never forget.

The women were victims and relatives of victims of alleged violence against civilians between 1965 and 1966, which occurred after the assassination of six military generals in an alleged coup attempt on Sept. 30, 1965, that was blamed on the now-defunct Indonesian Communist Party (PKI).

The meeting with the victims was part of Yuniyantis efforts to help them receive continued medical rehabilitation support from the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK).

However, she said the meeting was interrupted by a group of unidentified people who raided the building and dispersed the attendees after accusing them of discussing communism.

We saw several people raid the building carrying machetes in their hands, while others carried bamboo sticks, Yuniyanti said during a webinar on Wednesday. We were perplexed by the incident as we had only talked about health care in the meeting, not even a single word about communism.

The raid shows that the public still holds resentment against the PKI and those who are allegedly related to the party, she added.

Two decades after the fall of the Soeharto regime, fears of communism remain entrenched in Indonesia, where the ideology has been banned since 1966.

Amnesty International Indonesia executive director Usman Hamid said the fear of communism in Indonesia stemmed from anti-PKI propaganda and the manipulation of history under president Soehartos 32-year tenure from 1967 to 1998. Those included, he said, the use of a movie called Pengkhianatan G30S/PKI (Betrayal of the Communist) which depicted vicious PKI members assassinating generals.

Historians are still trying to get better access to materials to understand the violence and examine the historicity of the governments G30S accounts  or lack thereof. They say the public has the right to know the truth behind what happened in 1965 and therefore historians should be able to publish their findings openly and without intimidation.

One such historian is Grace Leksana. She obtained her doctorate in history from Leiden University in the Netherlands in May. Her thesis focuses on a 1965 tragedy in a neighborhood in southern Malang, East Java, a city she believes to be one of the main locations of violence against civilians in the period.

The government always promotes a narrative that the G30S was initiated by the PKI, but it never mentions anything about the violence against civilians that followed the incident, Grace said in a discussion hosted by history magazine historia.id on Tuesday.

In her research, she interviewed villagers to determine the sequence of violence against civilians, the forms of violence and the alleged perpetrators.

She came to the conclusion that violence had occurred in the village and that several residents had helped the military screen civilians allegedly affiliated with the communist party. These residents, she said, had done so because the regime had promised them prominent positions in local administrations if they assisted.

John Roosa of British Columbia University in Canada discussed violence against civilians in his 2020 book Buried histories: The anticommunist massacres of 1965-1966 in Indonesia. The book follows his previous publication, Pretext for mass murder: The September 30th movement and Suhartos coup detat in Indonesia, which was banned by the Attorney Generals Office (AGO) in 2009.

His research found that many civilians were subject to forced disappearances and killings.

He said at the Tuesday discussion that many civilians in places such as Riau, Lampung, West Java and Central Java were arrested and placed in detention camps in 1965 and 1966 before being murdered.

In a TV appearance on Tuesday evening, Coordinating Social, Political and Legal Affairs Minister Mahfud MD said the government had never forced the public to believe the propaganda in the movie.

He said the government had never determined which version of the 1965 tragedy the public should believe. The history of the tragedy is still debatable, and well leave it to the historians.

He said in a video statement earlier on Tuesday that the government did not oblige people to screen the G30S/PKI movie or prohibit them from screening it. But he noted one condition; everyone should refrain from hosting crowded events to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) concluded in 2012 an investigation into the 1965 communist purge. The commission found that the purge had constituted a gross human rights violation and recommended that military officials be brought to trial. But AGO prosecutors maintained that they were unable to build a case because of insufficient evidence.
October 1st, 2020

PLACEMENT OF A 991.5 MILLION EURO SECURITIZATION BACKED BY FRENCH AUTO LEASES WITH PURCHASE OPTION "LOA"

RCI Bank and Services announces the placement of its first securitization backed by auto lease monthly instalments (residual value component excluded) originated by its French subsidiary DIAC.

FCT Cars Alliance Auto Leases V 2020-1 has placed 950m(1) of Senior notes and 41.5m of Junior notes. These notes are rated AAA(sf) / Aaa(sf) and AA (low)(sf) / Aa3(sf) respectively by DBRS and Moody's.

The Senior tranche, with a WAL of 2.9 years, has a margin(2) of Euribor 1 month + 23bps. The Junior notes, with a WAL of 4.5 years, have a margin of Euribor 1 month + 100bps.

This issuance is the Group first public lease ABS and a key milestone in its funding diversification policy.

The success of this transaction demonstrates investors' confidence in the quality of RCI assets and its servicing process. This transaction also confirms the diversified financing sources to which the company has access.

(1): of which 200m retained by RCI Banque

(2): Coupon: Euribor + 70 floored at zero, issuance price 101.374

Attachment
Copyright  2020 Albuquerque Journal

The deputy chief at the Bernalillo County jail will retire at the end of the week after an investigation found he referred to an inmate using a racial slur.

Deputy Chief Aaron Vigils official last day at the Metropolitan Detention Center is Friday, but he has not been to the jail since early August, said Julia Rivera, an MDC spokeswoman.

Vigil, who has worked at MDC since November 2018, did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment on the matter.

Rivera said Vigil used Nigg in a text message referring to Clifton White, a 36-year-old Black man who was heavily involved in the Black Lives Matter movement at the time of his arrest.

It was brought to our attention that Deputy Chief Aaron Vigil had engaged in communication of a derogatory nature regarding an inmate in our custody, Rivera said. When we were made aware of the situation, it was swiftly communicated to the appropriate channels for investigation.

Bernalillo County Manager Julie Morgas Baca said that after a decision-making panel recommended termination, Vigil saw the writing on the wall and he submitted his papers to retire.

Selinda Guerrero, Whites wife and a local social justice activist, said the language is nothing new, but the evidence is.

These are high-ranking officials  and they do this all the time  they do this in the prison, they do this in our communities when they engage with us, she said.  Im just really  glad somebody was brave enough in the structure to be able to come forward (and) to put it out to the public so the entire community can see.

Guerrero said a whistleblower told her of the incident in early August, alleging MDC was trying to keep it quiet and leave it at a written reprimand in an attempt to save Vigils career.

The whistleblower told Guerrero the text thread was between Vigil and two others, from the Albuquerque Police Department and the New Mexico Corrections Department, and she said those other officials need to be held accountable.

Joseph Trujeque, president of the Bernalillo County Corrections Officer Association union, called the allegations against Vigil appalling.

That has no place in the setting of a correctional facility, let alone in the public, he said, adding that the incident reflects badly on every single one of us.

Trujeque said he was told that  in a text message exchange with MDC Maj. Michael Alvarado  Vigil called White the N-word. He said that a few days later, Vigil called Alvarado into his office, took his phone and demanded the passcode to delete the message.

Trujeque said Alvarado reported the incident to MDC Chief Greg Richardson a week later, but nothing was done. He said the investigation started after another employee filed a complaint with the county.

I expressed my concerns to the county manager because the rumor was out, and everybody knew about it and it looked like the county was trying to cover it up, he said.

Trujeque said he spoke with Richardson and Morgas Baca, suggesting that Vigil be put on administrative leave during the investigation.

Vigil was put on administrative leave immediately thereafter, and Trujeque said Richardson also needed to be held accountable if he was made aware of the message and didnt act.

Rivera disputed those claims and said Richardson referred the incident to human resources for investigation after Alvarado told him. Morgas Baca said the case wasnt swept underneath the carpet.

Trujeque said he also spoke extensively with Vigil, who confirmed that something was said in the message, but denied using that word, something Trujeque said he takes with a grain of salt.

Hes in charge of the largest correctional facility in the state  our jail is larger than all the prisons, he said. To make a statement like that, it brings bad light on everybody, especially with everything thats going on nowadays.

White was arrested June 1 for violating parole and is now in the Los Lunas prison.

According to court records, White  who pleaded guilty to armed robbery and trafficking in 2003  violated parole by having multiple negative contacts with Albuquerque police, failing to report to probation and parole by curfew, being the suspect in an auto theft and calling prisoners at the Los Lunas prison.

The June arrest of White came in the hours leading up to a BLM protest after George Floyd died at the hands of Minneapolis police.

White came to the attention of police on May 28, after a BLM protest in Southeast Albuquerque, when he and others confronted officers as they made a traffic stop on four young men in a shooting investigation. An ensuing standoff between riot police and the crowd resulted in officers deploying smoke and leaving the young mens vehicle unattended at the scene.

Police say that White took the vehicle and that officers followed him to the university area, where he was briefly detained. Although he was not charged, police told Whites parole officer about the May 28 incident and he was arrested.

In the months since the arrest, a large movement has gathered on social media and in the streets seeking Whites release and accusing authorities of targeting him for being involved in the BLM movement.

Guerrero said she hopes the revelations about Vigil will shine a light on how minorities are treated through policing and prisons.

This is what were talking about when we talk about the abuse of state violence, and the way we are devalued and dehumanized, she said. Now, heres the evidence, finally, something in the public record. Now, theres something from the inside, where people can see clearly that this is the culture.
Anne Belden was feeling down in the fall of 2017, coming back from a sabbatical to advise the Santa Rosa Junior College newspaper, with a class full of students she had never met.

When the Tubbs Fire ambushed the city in early October, torching more than 36,000 acres, killing 22 people and forcing thousands to flee, she would get to know the young journalists very quickly, and they would change her life.

I texted my Oak Leaf students (after the fires reached Santa Rosa) and eight of them showed up, Belden remembers. Half those students had been evacuated. They worked around the clock for two weeks. Theyd have to go to jobs, and some were sleeping in different places every night. It was just an incredible crew and an inspiring moment.

With three devastating fire seasons in the past four years, Santa Rosa has been forced to adapt to a new reality of wildfire. The changes are reflected in property maintenance, disaster planning and close attention to Nixle alerts. And they can be seen in the Santa Rosa Junior Colleges news organization, the Oak Leaf, which has expanded from an emphasis on hyper-local campus news to include the who, what, when, where, why and how of covering a blaze as it tears through their community yet again.

Its almost like fire college, says James Wyatt, a former Oak Leaf editor now studying journalism at San Francisco State University. Youre going to learn how to report on a fire at that college.

Courtesy Nick Vides 2019

The news teams latest challenge came Sunday night and early Monday morning, Sept. 27-28, when the Glass Fire destroyed homes in Santa Rosas Skyhawk neighborhood and threatened the retirement community of Oakmont.

Oak Leaf editor in chief Nick Vides was in Fairfield, where he planned to stay overnight, when he received a text from Belden. She said, Its bad, he recalls. So I just booked it, all the way back, all the way to (Highway) 101.

School was technically not in session because of the fires, but at least seven of the programs 18 students went to work.

Photos and live broadcasts started showing up in the 1 a.m. hour on the Oak Leafs social media feeds, before most media competitors were even on the scene in the Skyhawk area. Vides and Belden went back and forth from Mountain Hawk Drive, where several homes were ablaze, to Oakmont, posting updates via YouTube, Instagram and Facebook Live along the way. Their dramatic footage includes a retreat on Melita Road heading toward Highway 12 with flames on both sides.

By Tuesday, there were 60 photos on the Oak Leaf site from seven student journalists. They documented the Glass Fires devastation throughout Sonoma County with photos from Vides, Jonathan Bigall, Michael Combs, Aryk Copley, Priscilla Navas, Emma Molloy and Peyton Krzyzek.

Belden says the beginning of the semester is always a crash course in fire coverage, made more difficult this year because of the pandemic. She still hadnt met some of her students in person when the fire broke out.

Students are told to report in groups, and turn back at any sign of danger.

I want to do this with students, but we need to do it safely, Belden says. No. 1 rule is that everyone has to make it home.

The students say what they lack in reporting experience they make up for with hometown knowledge.

The advantages are tenfold. Youre in my backyard, Vides says. These major media outlets swarming the area, they dont know the back roads like we do. If I see a roadblock, I know two other roads to safely get to that same place to get our photo and get out.

Courtesy Anne Belden 2019

The group has swept community college awards for its fire coverage and been honored by the Society of Professional Journalists and the California Newspaper Publishers Association. Oak Leaf photos and videos have been picked up by CNN and NBC Nightly News, Belden says. A former Oak Leaf editor, Dakota McGranahan, was the only community college student of five honored with a Columbia Journalism School fellowship for a 2018 SPJ conference in Baltimore.

Vides credits the Santa Rosa Junior College faculty, which includes several professors with news coverage backgrounds, including Brian Antonson, who worked as a video journalist for CNN and CBS News.

Reminders of the scrappiness of Oak Leafs operation are everywhere, including their handmade press credentials.

We had these crappy press passes we laminated ourselves for sporting events on campus, Belden says. Suddenly (in 2017) they were using them and gaining access to Coffey Park and Fountaingrove and all these areas after those fires.

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.

Belden says those 2017 fires were an epiphany for her as an instructor. One student saw a need and made his beat dispelling false social media information, reporting with photographic proof that a grocery store rumored to be destroyed was still standing.

And everyone learned the toughest lessons for young journalists, including how to approach interview subjects and how to stand your ground with officials who dont recognize a journalists rights.

They gained more experience and knowledge in two weeks than I could teach them in two years, Belden says.

Former Oak Leaf editor James Wyatt says he wasnt sure what hed do with his life before the Tubbs Fire. His father is a police officer and his mother is a nurse. While Wyatt wanted to follow their leads and be of service, he knew those careers werent for him.

Covering the heartbreak and heroism of his neighbors in 2017, he found clarity. That was my community. Just a half mile or mile down the road were houses that I grew up wandering around, and they had burnt down, Wyatt says. When the fire happened it literally changed everything. It put me in a go-mode. It gave me purpose.

Courtesy Anne Belden 2017

Wyatt is now in his last semester at San Francisco State. His journalism units are completed, and hes thinking about a future covering news. But when he heard the fires had returned last Sunday night, he decided to cover the story for the San Francisco State newspaper Golden Gate Xpress.

I said, Screw it, I can tell this is getting big, Wyatt says. So I just took an Uber all the way up to Santa Rosa because I dont have a car. I got dropped off at a police line, and then walked all the way up to the fire. It just brought it all back to me.

Thats my hometown, you know. I love Santa Rosa. I just know that all these people are being impacted. This is what I want to be doing.

Peter Hartlaub is The San Francisco Chronicles culture critic. Email: phartlaub@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @PeterHartlaub
COSTA MESA, Calif., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Clean Energy Technologies, Inc. (OTCQB : CETY) a California-based leader and global innovator in clean energy generation and sustainability-focused technologies, announced today that it has signed a sales and manufacturing agreement with ENEX, a Clean Energy Company specializing in the design, build and operation of organic waste recovery systems based on proprietary technologies.

CETY will have the exclusive rights of the Biomass technology and product in the United States and Asia. In addition ENEX shall have exclusive rights to package and sell the CETY ORC system for any project developed in Russia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan (the "CIS Countries").

ENEX's technology is based on organic waste treatment in the high temperature ablative pyrolysis reactor (ENEX HTAP) with the production of synthetic (renewable) natural gas to be used as fuel for onsite power generation or CNG application.

ENEX proprietary technology and expertise will support CETY in securing a long term and profitable recurring revenue.

CETY and ENEX will begin to set up a facility in Russia for CETY Clean Cycle magnetic bearing waste heat generators customized to customer's applications and sites. ENEX shall begin marketing and sales activities to acquire prospective customers for CETY Clean Cycle waste heat generators and set up engineering and commissioning support of such customers in the Territory of Russia and CIP countries.

Additionally, CETY and ENEX's team will cooperate to jointly design, develop and implement biomass recovery systems for forestry and agricultural wastes in California, United States. The BioMAT Tariff opportunity in California requires each of the big 3 utilities in California to purchase up to 250 Mw collectively of power at a starting price of $127.8 to $197 per MwH. The feed stock to the project must be agriculture waste, biosolids, green waste, forestry waste or biomass diverted from landfills. The program uses a standard long-term contract (Power Purchase Agreement) offered at contract prices. CETY will be targeting the agriculture waste and forestry waste with potential $84M contracts.

This news follows several other releases over the last month regarding the expansion of CETY's global presence through strategic partnerships and joint ventures in key target markets, which supports scalability at lower costs and higher margins.

CETY's expansion into the rapidly growing and expansive Chinese clean energy market, alongside a strong partner Khorgos Shuxin Co. Ltd (KS) was announced on September 16th, 2020. Under the terms of this agreement CETY will be the majority partner in the venture and will provide the JV the licenses and know-how to market its products and solutions in China. HS brings to the JV a large pipeline of sales opportunities as well as a team of local experts who can implement CETY's products and solutions.

Additionally, CETY signed an agreement on September 22, 2020 to launch its Asia headquarters in Meishan California Smart City (MCSC). MCSC is a joint venture of Meishan California Smart Town Investment and Development Co., Ltd., and the international agricultural and real estate giant COFCO with total annual revenues of USD 31 billion.

The joint venture will promote sales and application of CETY's products and solutions. COFCO embraces several sectors highly compatible with CETY products and technology, including its Clean Cycle II applications, which are also ideal for integration into the MCSC infrastructure.

About Clean Energy Technologies, Inc. (CETY)

Headquartered in Costa Mesa, California, Clean Energy Technologies, (CETY) delivers power from heat and biomass with zero emission and low cost. We design, produce and market clean energy products & solutions focused on energy efficiency and renewable energy. The Company's principal product is the Clean Cycle magnetic bearing heat recovery generator, offered by CETY's Clean Energy HRS, or Heat Recovery Solutions, subsidiary, www.heatrecoverysolutions.com. The Clean Cycle system captures waste heat from a variety of sources and turns it into electricity that can be used or sold back to the grid. CETY's proven, reliable technology allows municipal, commercial, and industrial users with heat sources, such as from biomass, industrial processes or energy production, to boost their overall energy efficiency with no additional fuel, no pollutants, and little ongoing maintenance. CETY's common stock is currently traded on the OTC Market under the symbol CETY. For more information, visit www.cetyinc.com or www.heatrecoverysolutions.com.

DISCLAIMER

This news release may include forward-looking statements within the meaning of section 27A of the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the United States Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, with respect to achieving corporate objectives, developing additional project interests, the company's analysis of opportunities in the acquisition and development of various project interests and certain other matters. These statements are made under the "Safe Harbor" provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and involve risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements contained herein.

Contact:

Clean Energy Technologies, Inc.

Kam Mahdi, CEO

949-273-4990 x814

[email protected]

Clean Energy Technologies, Inc.

2990 Redhill Avenue

Costa Mesa, CA 92626

949.273.4990 main

949.273.4990 fax

www.cetyinc.com

SOURCE Clean Energy Technologies, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.cetyinc.com


Police in New York City are searching for a gunman who was caught on surveillance video casually strolling up to a group of people holding a vigil before opening fire and hitting one man in the chest.

According to the NYPD, the shooting took place in front of 542 Gates Avenue in the Bedford-Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn just after 9.30pm on September 23.

Several people were sitting on the sidewalk as part of a vigil when a man in a hooded sweatshirt and a mask walked up to them, with one hand tucked into his pocket and another holding a gun.

The gunman appears to target a man sitting in a chair on the sidewalk and shoots him multiple times, causing him to fall

The 34-year-old victim attempts to roll away from the gunfire, but the shooter continues squeezing off rounds at him

The short surveillance clip released by the police shows the gunman immediately opens fire, sending the vigil attendees fleeing for their lives.

He trains his gun on one person in particular, firing multiple rounds at him.

The target of the attack falls off a chair and tries to roll away as the shooter continues firing on him, squeezing off at least three rounds.

The 34-year-old victim was taken to Kings County Hospital with multiple gunshot wounds to his chest and right arm. He was described as being in stable condition and was expected to survive.

The suspect was last seen wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt and a face mask

Officials said it is unclear what the purpose of the vigil had been.

A $2,500 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest.

Anyone with information on the shooter is being asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS.
Kaitlyn Yozviak died on August 26 from cardiac arrest and severe anemia after being excessive bitten by lice

A 12-year-old Georgia girl who died as an indirect result of a severe lice infestation, lived in a house of horrors where her bedroom was infested with rats.

Kaitlyn Yozviak died on August 26 from cardiac arrest with a secondary cause being severe anemia, as it's believed repeated bites from the lice lowered her blood iron levels and may have triggered the cardiac attack.

When agents got to the home and found her body, the inside was filthy and in disrepair with vermin covering the mattress, stuffed animals and other furniture in Kaitlyn's room.

Her parents Mary Katherine 'Katie' Horton, 37, and Joey Yozviak, 38, said she hadn't bathed for a week-and-a-half.

Her mother made the 911 call saying she was unresponsive and she later died in hospital.

Wilkinson County Superior Court Judge Brenda Trammell agreed there was enough evidence for second-degree murder charges against her parents to go forward to a grand jury. The couple was also charged with second-degree child cruelty.

The GBI earlier said the girl suffered 'excessive physical pain due to medical negligence,' although the autopsy results are not yet complete.

Georgia Bureau of Investigation Special Agent Ryan Hilton testified that, at the time of her death, Kaitlyn had 'the most severe' lice infestation that the GBI's office had ever seen, and it may have lasted on and off for at least three years.

Kaitlyn Yozviak lived in a house where her bedroom was infested with rats on the mattress

Inside was filthy and in disrepair with vermin covering stuffed animals and other furniture

Her parents Mary Katherine 'Katie' Horton, right, and Joey Yozviak, left, have been charged with her murder. The couple was also charged with second-degree child cruelty

The agency didn't receive any reports on the family until 2018 where files show a call indicating the home was 'bug-infested, (with) excessive cats, and hazardous conditions.'

Her two brothers were removed from the home due to unsanitary conditions.

Kaitlyn was briefly placed with her aunt, and returned to her parents' home six days later.

The agency did not hear from the family again until after she died. The last entry in the file is heavily redacted and concerns a conversation between GBI and child welfare authorities.

Katie Horton's mother - who was alienated from the family from before Kaitlyn was born - has been taking care of her two grandsons.

'Had the system done their job and rescued Kaitlyn, I would [have] raised her, too,' Anne Horton told WMAZ.

Neighbors said they hadn't seen her playing around the house for a month or two.

Deborah Ford said Kaitlyn used to ride over on her bike and drop by for snacks.

Neighbors said they hadn't seen her playing around the house in one or two months

Investigators are seen inspecting some items from inside the house of horrors in August

Georgia Bureau of Investigation Special Agent Ryan Hilton testified that, at the time of her death, Kaitlyn had 'the most severe' lice infestation that the GBIs office had ever seen, and it may have lasted on and off for at least three years

Solomon London said he was concerned for Kaitlyn the first time he met her as she played with his three children: 'The little girl stopped and was like, 'Oh, don't come no closer,' and that girl said, 'My mom will beat me.' I heard this and I was like ... you know, when something rubs you the wrong way, it just ...'

Authorities believe that if not for having to stay home due to the pandemic, Kaitlyn's life may have been saved by teachers at school.

'I do believe that due to the mandated reporters and teachers in the school system, which are phenomenal, and the people that see kids every day, they save lives every day,' GBI Special Agent Mary Chandler told WMAZ.

'Due to the fact that this child has not been at school since February, I do believe that's the cause of her death.'

'She was a very sweet, sweet girl,' Clifton Ridge Middle School teacher Lelin Holt told WMAZ. 'Always respectful, I've never had any issues out of her at all.'

In 2008, DFCS opened another case around the time Kaitlyn was born, after the parents decided not to give her up for adoption.

Her would-be adoptive parents said they did not expect Kaitlyn's life would've turned out this way.

'I do believe that due to the mandated reporters and teachers in the school system, which are phenomenal, and the people that see kids every day, they save lives every day,' GBI Special Agent Mary Chandler told WMAZ
It also referred to a trickle and then a flood of emails and filings from Census employees complainingthat they were not being told about the Courts Orders, and that the Census Bureau was not in compliance. In light of that, the plaintiffs also asked the judge to direct Defendants to issue a new text message to all of their employees notifying them of the Courts ruling, stating that the October 5 date is not operative, and stating that field data collection operations remain ongoing  and provide a copy of that text to the Court once sent.
Wisconsins COVID-19 spike as President Trump plans weekend rallies in La Crosse and Green Bay drew national attention Wednesday night.

Wisconsin reported a record 27 COVID-19 deaths Wednesday amid a continuing surge in cases, as state health officials urged local governments to curb spread of the virus and said everyone should stay home as many people did in the spring.

MSNBCs Rachel Maddow noted on her show Wednesday night that the states COVID-19 spike and surging patient load for hospital systems in Wausau and Green Bay is worrying hospital executives.

Green Bay, she said, is one of the places in Wisconsin where President Trump is hoping to hold a gigantic in-person mega rally this weekend.  He also wants to do one in La Crosse.  The White House just told Wisconsin this week that the states viral spread is so bad that the state needs to increase social distancing, quote, to the maximal degree possible.

The Washington Post was the first to report that La Crosse and Green Bay were flagged by the White House Coronavirus Task Force as coronavirus red zones, the highest level of concern for community spread of the virus.

And, Maddow said, La Crosse and Green Bay are where the president is planning on going this weekend to have his no-distancing, everybody-packing, lets-get-thousands-of-people-there rallies. And they can all boo the idea of wearing masks.

COVID-19 in photos: How Wisconsin is managing the pandemic

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Two persons and four entities are subject to the restrictions.

The European Union has expanded the list of individuals and legal entities subject to sanctions for the construction of the Kerch Bridge in Russia-occupied Crimea.

This was announced on the European Council's website.

Read alsoRussia shuts down Kerch ferry service, earlier used to deploy troops in annexed Crimea

In particular, the Council on October 1 added two individuals and four entities to the list of those individuals and entities subject to restrictive measures in respect of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine.

"These measures were adopted in the light of the role played by these people and entities in the construction of the bridge and railway tracks linking Russia to the illegally annexed Crimean peninsula via the Kerch Strait, and further isolating Crimea from Ukraine," the announcement said.

The sanctions, which now apply to a total of 177 individuals and 48 entities, include a travel ban and an asset freeze. The travel ban prevents the entry into or transit through the territory of the European Union of the persons listed, while the asset freeze concerns the funds or economic resources of both listed persons and entities. In addition, EU citizens and companies are forbidden from making funds available to those listed persons.

The relevant legal acts, including the names of the persons and entities concerned, have been published in the Official Journal.

In particular, the sanctions were introduced against General Director of JSC TC Grand Service Express railway carrier Alexander Ganov and Deputy General Director for Infrastructure Projects at Stroygazmontazh, also spelled as Stroigazmontazh, (SGM) construction firm Leonid Ryzhenkin.

Also, the restrictive measures were applied against such organizations as: JSC LenPromTransProyekt, JSC Berkakit-Tommot-Yakutsk Railway Line's Construction Directorate, Federal State Unitary Enterprise "Crimean Railway," and Crimean First Insurance Company.

Background

The European Union does not recognize the illegal annexation of Crimea and of the city of Sevastopol by the Russian Federation, and continues to condemn the Russian violation of international law. Moreover, the EU remains unwavering in its support for the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine.

Individual restrictive measures were first applied on March 17, 2014, in response to the unprovoked actions deliberately undermining and destabilizing the territorial integrity of Ukraine. Other EU measures in place in response to the crisis in Ukraine include economic sanctions targeting specific sectors of the Russian economy and restrictions on economic relations with Crimea and Sevastopol.

The list of sanctioned persons and entities are kept under constant review and are subject to periodic renewals by the Council.

Kerch Bridge project
Eric Tataw Tano Twitter

Eric Tataw Tano, US-based Cameroonian pro-separatist activist fronting for the independence of a country called Ambazonia has said the education of children can no longer be used to gain political capital.

Taking to his social media accounts ahead of school resumption in Cameroon billed for October 5, Eric Tataw says the school boycott imposed on learners in the North West and South West Regions must not get into the fifth year.

Any amba [separatist] fighter who attacks schools should be arrested and beaten... I have said so. Nobody is supposed to attack schools, hospitals, and churches, Eric Tataw said in a video that is now breaking social media platforms.

Tataw says individuals hiding abroad should not ruin the future of school-going children in Cameroons North West and South West Regions in the name of a revolution.

His words: I am championing this back-to-school campaign and I thank Mark Bareta who has come in powerfully. I tell you that those children will go to school. No one can stay in the diaspora and determine the destiny of children in the North West and South West regions of Cameroon.

In all Revolutions, I've managed to read  their phases and patterns, all Liberators considered two things; hitting hard on what hurts the government and listening from their communities on what would possibly hurt them. On school resumption, Ive listened to parents. Diaspora steer clear!

As part of my corporate social responsibility as a rights activist, weighing on the convictions of parents to ascertain the security guarantees of their children, Im unapologetically asking all Ambazonian fighters & activists join me in the crusade to allow school resumption.

In an unexpected turnaround, Tataw instructs armed men in the North West and South West Regions to accompany learners in their pursuit. He said they must stop listening to people in the diaspora who only seek to line their pockets with money.

Four years is enough to keep these children home. We have to give the command to their parents, their guardians, and the children themselves to weigh their security to return to school. Shutting down schools any further is not a strategy towards gaining independence. The strategy of school boycott has become redundant and we must accept, Tataw said, insisting that, Let me tell you something: I am making no mistake here. 100% of parents want their children to return to school. And as a liberator, you must work based on the aspirations of the people you want to liberate. Even Ambazonian activists want schools to resume but are scared theyll be tagged as blacklegs.

Tataw says those questioning the curriculum under which the children will be taught are hypocrites.

Hear him: Those of you studying abroad, which curriculum are you using? All Mathematics and English Language is unique across the world. It is the same with Geography and other subjects. Some of you are preaching school boycott in the North West and South West regions but your kids are studying in the French-speaking regions of Cameroon. That hypocrisy has got to stop. I stand in solidarity with our children who have been out of school for four years now. Those children have a right to go to school. Their parents are scared of speaking out because they will be manhandled by the armed men.

We have mortgaged the lives of these children for four years and it is enough! Enough is enough! I give you 100% guarantee that those children will go to school. No one is going to stop them from going to school. All fighters should take our children to school when they want to go to school.

The back-to-school campaign has also gained the support of Belgium-based Cameroonian pro-separatist activist Mark Bareta.

As I have stated before, school boycott is no longer a weapon of our struggle for independence. Thus, where possible, Ambazonia Forces should allow education and even encourage schools to go on, said Bareta.

Just like Tataw, Bareta rubbished claims by Boh Herbert, Ebenezer Akwanga, and Samuel Ikome Sako that schools should only resume after a deal is reached with a Swiss-facilitated dialogue.

You cannot continue with the line that No Schools Until A Deal At The Swiss-Led Process. A so-called process you guys are doing virtually nothing, just sitting hoping something happens, no pressures even to Swiss, you guys have given them a blank check, said Bareta.

According to the UN, more than 80 percent of schools in the English-speaking North West and South West regions are closed; as the security situation and living conditions continue to deteriorate due to the three-year conflict between the government and armed groups.

The school closures are the result of a ban on education imposed by militia groups, which has affected more than 600,000 children, seen at least 74 schools destroyed, and exposed students, teachers, and school personnel to violence, abduction, and intimidation.
Police say Boris Johnson's father Stanley will not be fined after he was caught shopping without a face mask because he is a first offender.

Stanley, 79, who just months ago flew to his Greek villa despite the pandemic travel warnings, was spotted without a face covering as he went to pick up a newspaper in West London on Tuesday.

The 79-year-old previously faced a 200 fine following the apparent breach of Government regulations.

The Prime Minister believes his father should have followed the rules on social distancing, Downing Street has said.

Meanwhile, former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn could also be in trouble after being caught breaching the 'Rule of Six' during a dinner party.

The Prime Minister's official spokesman said earlier today: 'You have heard the Prime Minister's father apologise for his mistake.

'He recognises his error and fully understands that it is vital for everyone to abide by the rules on face coverings and social-distancing.

'The PM is certainly clear that the rules apply to everyone and everybody should follow them.'

This is the moment Boris Johnson's father was pictured without a face mask at his local newsagent - meaning he now faces a 200 fine for breaking Covid rules

A spokesperson for the Met Police told the Mirror: 'As a matter of course the MPS is not investigating COVID related issues retrospectively.

'Where we become aware of a breach occurring, officers will seek to engage, explain and encourage people to follow the rules, only enforcing as a last resort.

'Where alleged breaches are brought to our attention after the event, officers will not have had the opportunity to engage, explain or encourage, and those involved will not to respond positively to that process  as most people do.'

The force added that, due to the above, it would be inappropriate to pursue the Prime Minister's father and urged the public to continue following the rules.

The scenes come after the Prime Minister yesterday pleaded with the British public to 'follow the guidance' and urged people to wear a mask in shops and on public transport during a Downing Street press conference.

After being caught red-handed without a mask, the Prime Minister's father admitted he was 'maybe not 100 per cent up to speed' with the rules having just returned from abroad and said he was 'extremely sorry'.

He apologised for the mistake and said he was 'maybe not 100 per cent' up to date with the virus restrictions.

Meanwhile, Environment Secretary George Eustice said today the police would decide if Mr Johnson - and former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn who was pictured eating a meal with eight others - should be fined.

But he stressed that punishments should only be handed out to those showing a 'wilful and reckless' disregard for the restrictions regarding face coverings.

Speaking to BBC Radio 4's Today programme, Mr Eustice said: 'The police will decide what approach they should take (with Stanley Johnson) but the appropriate response is to act in a proportionate and pragmatic way.

'They are only using fines as a last resort where you have wilful and reckless disobedience of the regulations we have in place.

'As a general rule, whether it is on public transport or in other venues, it will be a matter of either directing people to comply with the rules or to leave the premises or to leave public transport and that is the approach that is working most effectively.

'I think in both these cases, the (sic) leader of the Opposition (Jeremy Corbyn) and the Prime Minister's father, in both cases they have admitted to making an error and have apologised for doing so.'

The scenes come just months after the Prime Minister was met with a furious backlash after his father jetted to his four-bed home in Greece - ignoring Foreign Office guidance which stated no one should travel unless it was essential.

Stanley Johnson, 79, who just months ago flew to his Greek villa despite the pandemic travel warnings, was spotted without a face covering as he went to pick up a newspaper in West London on Tuesday

Mr Johnson claimed he needed to 'Covid proof' his villa before the letting season began.

The retired Tory MEP told local and international press: 'There is no question of my breaking the law. The minister of tourism here has my papers.

'It was always absolutely clear from the Greek government that the only thing they were banning were people coming in from direct flights from Britain.'

Locals claimed he arrived to the region by private car after documenting his controversial journey from the UK on social media, sharing a video of himself on a plane and a selfie.

When he was later confronted by international media in Pelion, Mr Johnson said he was unaware of the outcry in Britain about his flight.

'It is true I took the pictures down,' he said. 'But I didn't put them up in spirit of defiance. I certainly had no intention of provoking anyone.'

Today Boris Johnson pleaded with Britons to 'follow the guidance' in an effort to prevent a second 'more costly' lockdown national lockdown.

He said: 'Let me just say what I've said to everybody, please everybody follow the guidance.

'Bearing in mind, you are doing it not just to protect your neighbour but ultimately someone that you could transmit the disease to that could end up infecting someone that you love. It is absolutely crucial that we stop the spread of this disease.'

He added: 'Wear a mask on transport in the way that is recommended.

'And, bear in mind that the fines are now very considerable and they will be imposed.'

Last week, the Prime Minister revealed that fines for failing to wear a face covering would rise to 200 and will become compulsory for bar staff, shop workers, waiters and taxi passengers.
Every one of us knows someone, or knows someone who knows someone who has fallen sick with COVID-19, or someone whose life has ended abruptly as they struggled against the dreaded illness.

A Harvest of Courage: The Frontline and the Fallen, a tribute film that aired Sept. 30 showed how the coronavirus has impacted the tightly knit community of Staten Island.

The 45-minute film  free and available to anyone by clicking projecthospitality.org/harvest-of-courage/ or going to projecthospitality.org  was produced in place of Project Hospitalitys annual Fall Harvest Gala. (If you have difficulty accessing the above link, the event is also on YouTube: https://youtu.be/DIAuI_7sVGI )

The riveting tribute details the direct effect of COVID-19 on an agency known for its dedication and devotion to the most vulnerable among us.

Rev. Terry Troia, president of Project Hospitality opens the tribute.

Project Hospitality is dedicated to serving Staten Islanders who are hungry who are homeless and other people in need. And thats what weve been doing since March of this year in the midst of COVID pandemic," she said. On the streets we are serving homeless and reaching out to make sure they have the information and the tools they need to avoid getting the transmission of the virus. Were here to serve and celebrate that service on what would have been our Harvest Gala  but instead our Harvest Tribute to those who worked tirelessly, courageously and fearlessly to save lives and without concern to their own self and honor them tonight and those who have fallen in the path of COVID.

The film focuses on the beacons of light in our community who died of COVID-19 who come to life again through memories shared by people whose lives they touched.

The fallen who were memorialized: the late: Rev. Maggie Howard of Stapleton UAME Church; Gale Anthony, a staff member at Project Hospitality; Mary Ellen Porter, the Richmond University Medical Center Nurses Manager; Anthony Iraci, FDNY firefighter and NYPD detective; Ed LaTourette, Curtis High School teacher; Dominick Brancato, CEO of the New York Center for Interpersonal Development, and Monsignor Richard Guastella and Monsignor Joseph Murphy, pastor and pastor emeritus, both of St. Clare R. C. Church in Great Kills.

In speaking of Monsignors Murphy and Guastella, Bishop John OHara, episcopal vicar of Staten Island, said: Father Joe Murphy was legendary. He attended a seminar in California to prepare him for what was to come. It changed him and he saw parish life. He told me the secret of pastoring is service to empower others and letting go. And he didnt sit in the rectory. He went to them.

We lost a giant when Father Richard fell victim to COVID -19 on Holy Thursday," Bishop OHara added. "Father Richard was a priests priest. What a successor to Monsignor Joe Murphy. He took what Monsignor Murphy had developed. He spent his entire life in parishes. He took what Monsignor Murphy did and expanded it and brought it to new life and the parish was the center of activity, evangelization of social services  meeting the needs of not only St. Clares but the entire Island.

City Councilwoman Debi Rose spoke about Rev. Maggie Howard:

I was blessed beyond measure  we all were  because God has bestowed upon us a precious treasure, a precious gem.... the manifestation of all that is right and good in this world  feeding, clothing and ministering to all who came in need. She had a selfless and giving spirit. During Hurricane Sandy she traveled to the South Shore every day to help those whose homes were destroyed by the floods bringing them them food water and food and clothing. I will miss our 6 a.m. calls, her laugh asking her to pray for me and with me and just the her ability to bask in her goodness. She was light and love personified. She will be sorely missed.

Frontline workers and volunteers who put their own health at risk every day were also honored for giving of themselves wholeheartedly during this unprecedented time of need.

The film depicts up close, the selfless pledges taken every day by these heroes to save and serve neighbors, friends and strangers through acts of bravery and hope.

Frontline individuals honored were: Frank Morisano of Northwell Health, Pat Kane, executive director of the NY State Nurses Association, Jose Mejia, Northwell Health Emergency Room Staff, Natalie DeVito, creator of Staten Island United Against COVID-19, Bill Sorensen, devoted volunteer at Stapleton UAME Church/City Harvest, Michelle Molina, executive director of El Centro del Inmigrante, Joe Williams, volunteer at Stapleton UAME Church, and Flora Aclan, volunteer at Christian Pentecostal/City Harvest.

Honoree Joe Williams said of Rev. Maggie Howard: She said to me, Its a pleasure to have you here.' And I was her crutch. She was a very strong minded person. She said 'Joe, you can do it and Im still here and Il continue her legacy. God gave me a sign. Youre the man for the job and everything is smooth.

Honoree Bill Sorensen: Prior to COVID, I would get six truck loads a week of food to be hand loaded and unloaded. Since the advent of COVID there were up to 12 or 15 palettes of food. If somebody is hungry we have to be resilient, compassionate and think of others and make the world a success. Im a volunteer. The truck is old. Im old. But we both still work.

And Jose Mejia of the Northwell Health Emergency Room staff noted: "My mission is to help the population in need of quality health care. And I thank God for the strength he gives me every day. And I know I made a positive impact on every patient.

The frontline professionals at Project Hospitality were also recognized for their tireless work and extraordinary commitment to make sure no one goes unfed, unhoused or unnoticed in the midst of the pandemic.
Frances oil and gas major Total is joining other European peers, aiming to reinvent itself into a broad energy company, and will be betting on profitably growing its liquefied natural gas (LNG) and renewable businesses.

Total plans to increase the energy it produces while decreasing its carbon footprint, the company said in its Strategy & Outlook this week. To reduce emissions and become a broad energy company, Total will grow its energy production by one third, with half the growth coming from LNG and half from electricity, mainly from renewables. The company will also scale up profitable investments in renewables and electricity from US$2 billion to US$3 billion per year, representing more than 20 percent of capital investments.

The French firm also confirmed its ambition, announced earlier this year, to get to net-zero by 2050.

Last week, Totals chief executive Patrick Pouyanne told French newspaper Le Parisien that the firm aims to be among the worlds top five producers of renewable energy. The companys operations mix today is 55 percent oil, 40 percent gas, and less than 5 percent electricity from renewables, Pouyanne said, noting that in 2050, Totals operations will be divided into 20 percent oil, 40 percent gas, and 40 percent renewable energy.

European oil majors have pledged various commitments to become net-zero energy companies and significantly expand their renewable energy, hydrogen, or power market portfolios.

BP said in its new strategy in August that it would reduce its oil and gas production by 40 percent by 2030 through active portfolio management and would not enter exploration in new countries.



Related: Trump Signs Emergency Order To Bolster Rare Earth Mining

Equinor mandated its incoming chief executive Anders Opedalwho will replace retiring Eldar Stre in November to accelerate Equinors transition from an oil company to a broad energy company.

Eni announced in June a new business structure to be a leader in the energy transition, creating an Energy Evolution division in the company to accelerate its plans to significantly boost renewable power generation and biofuels production.

Shell said this week it is reorganizing for a low-carbon future, which would mean up to 9,000 job cuts by the end of 2022.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Time was in the 1990s, even after 2000, that any country in danger of political chaos or implosion  a word I still instinctively loath, along with epicentre  was in danger of being Lebanised.

Djibouti would become the Beirut of the Horn of Africa and the Balkans, inevitably, subject to Lebanonisation. For a while, little civil wars  Tadjikistan, Ukraine  might be Balkanised. But the mythical Switzerland of the Middle East, the Beirut of paradise and hell, always crept back. For a country that did  for a decade and a half after its civil war officially ended  imitate the Phoenix, this was very unfair.

But now Beirut is back on the international chart of madness, political irrationality, corruption and violence. And the comparison this time round? With America, of course.The poor old Lebanese dont deserve this. US policy towards their tiny country and Washingtons grovelling support for Israels regular invasions have done much to produce Lebanons tragedy.

Yet sure enough, the Donald Trump presidency and its possibly uproarious aftermath  permanent Trumpism while the US military decides whether to defend or attack the White House in November  has brought Beirut back onto the cliche-board.

Enter, then, a friend whom I had sworn just a couple of weeks ago to mention no more  or at least not for another six months: the New York Times Imperial Messenger, Thomas Friedman. Tom and I shared a few stories back in the 1980s when we both covered the Lebanese civil war  until he was re-appointed to Jerusalem and departed Beirut. But last week, he was back with a vengeance, metaphorically at least. On CNN, he orated a classic equation that looks good but doesnt quite add up  but which everyone will remember afterwards.

You know I began my career as a journalist covering Lebanons second civil war in its history, Friedman told Anderson Cooper, and Im terrified to find myself ending my career as a journalist covering Americas second civil war in its history. Cooper rhetorically asked: You really believe that? But of course, Tom did; Trumps remarks about not carrying out a peaceful transition of power meant that America could be heading for its second civil war.

Lets just forget for a moment that only once in Lebanese history  long after Tom had left  did the country briefly acquire two rival prime ministers, one of whom, by chance, is currently the real president of Lebanon (and supported by Syria). He was originally bombed out of his palace in 1990 by  here we go again  the Syrians.

But no matter. Friedman had first plunged back into the mellow waters of the Levant in September, only just over a month before his Cassandra-like warnings on Trump, when he compared the deeply suspicious reaction of the Lebanese to the ammonium nitrate explosion which devastated several districts of Beirut with the US reaction to Covid-19. As in the Middle East  scribed the Imperial Messenger, so increasingly in America: Everything is now politics  even the climate, even energy, even face masks in a pandemic.

But he then embarked on a grossly unfair critique of recent Lebanese history where the sectarian nature of Lebanese society was held up to blame for all or most of the countrys misfortunes  and added that Americas two political parties resembled religious sects in a contest for power. And this was before Wednesdays presidential rant-binge. They [the Lebanese] call theirs Shiites and Sunnis and Maronites or Israelis and Palestinians, wrote Friedman. We call ours Democrats and Republicans, but ours now behave just like rival tribes who believe they must rule or die. Well, up to a point, Lord Copper.

For there were two missing elements to this simplistic mathematics. The second Lebanese civil war which Friedman was covering was intimately bound up with the tragedy of the Palestinian refugees, of whom perhaps 350,000 lived in refugee camps in Lebanon at that time. Without this dispossessed people, sectarianism might have survived without conflict  or without the massacres at Sabra and Chatila which Friedman himself covered in 1982. And Israels invasion of Lebanon that year  intended to drive the Palestinians into Syria and cement the minority Christian Maronites in power  cost up to 17,000 lives, almost 9 per cent of the total civil war dead. So apart from that brief Israelis and Palestinians remark, Friedman cut Palestine out of the story.

Nor am I surprised. Because in the United States today, the most obvious Middle East political comparison arises between Palestinians and Black Americans. No, I know one struggle is over nationalism, the other over racism. But however much the Israelis and their so-called friends try to smear anyone who suggests theres a parallel between a White cop shooting a Black American and an Israeli cop shooting a Palestinian, Black men and women in America and Palestinians share one demand in common: dignity. And human rights.

Black Americans were dispossessed when their ancestors were enslaved four hundred years ago. The Palestinians were dispossessed for their land just over half a century ago. But both have legitimate grievances which have much in common. It was scarcely surprising that supporters of the Palestinian Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) organisation gave its wholehearted support to the US Black Lives Matter movement.

And its impossible to avoid the personal reactions of many Black Americans to the Palestinian tragedy. In many trips to the US, whenever I have talked with a black person about the Middle East, they have always  100 per cent  expressed their sympathy and sorrow for the Palestinians. Speaking always with knowledge, openness and genuine concern about the West Bank and Gaza and the Palestinian refugees of the diaspora.

Yet most White Americans  save for those involved in the Middle East from a leftist perspective (including, of course, many Jewish Americans)  almost always respond with alarm at any straightforward discussion of the Palestinians. They know the costs of criticising Israel.

But none of this, it seems, is worthy of discussion during the American election. Why, I wonder  since he was caught up in the religions of Lebanon  did Friedman not remark about the dolourous influence of American Christian Evangelicals on Trump and their support for Israel? This is very much not a subject for discussion in the US election campaign, let alone this weeks Trumpite screamathon; and certainly not in any American newspaper column. But it is central to the nations policy (if there be such a creature in Trumpland) in the Middle East.

Sure, we all know that education and health and employment come first in American elections  as in most democracies  but if were going to discuss the future of the United States in the framework of a broken, tragic nation like Lebanon, lets talk about the real lessons to be learnt in the Middle East. And if everything is now politics in America, as Friedman maintains, we should be telling the truth about the most bloody history of the lands which the next president will find  inevitably  at the top of his danger list in the months to come.

Tom, I should add, remains a good friend. In fact, a few months before Covid-19 wrapped us all up, Friedman and I appeared  though not on the same stage  at a book festival on the east coast of Ireland. We met for Sunday coffee in the local village grocery store where he expressed his contempt for Trumps untrustworthiness (not enough contempt, in my view, but thats Tom for you). And as we were leaving, I said goodbye to Mairead, the coffee-shop owner, whom I have known for years. I was about to introduce Tom, when he gave her his winning smile and said: Im Americas Robert Fisk.

And heaven spare me, I hadnt thought of that one!
BIT MORE CONTEXT ON THE MAX/CHRIS SITUATION  pic.twitter.com/LRFNzRIibp  valeria (@eIenahoughIin) September 26, 2020

5. Max Ehrich used the song Crash Into Me while proposing to Demi Lovato. The same song he associated with his ex Veronica Dunne  pic.twitter.com/hFuGshAtbl  Jack | DEMI Documentary out now! (@ctrlovato) September 17, 2020

We're getting excited about the upcoming release of a new song by #DaytimeEmmys nominee @maxehrich and @bellathorne !! pic.twitter.com/GzCL7dxYF6  Daytime Emmys (@DaytimeEmmys) July 26, 2017

Before Demi Lovato started dating Max Ehrich, I knew his face was familiar because of people he was previously linked to. But I noticed that most of these connections I was familiar with seemed to be very strong at first then became nonexistent. So I did some searching and it is not extensive but it's the best I could do because surprise, surprise most of the content is deleted off the internet!of Modern Family fame (circa 2007-2009)- Max and Sarah went to high school together and were even extras in High School Musical 3 together.- Sarah met her pos ex-boyfriend Matt Prokop whilst filming HSM 3.- This dude literally was just a dancer in HSM 3 and would often do interviews about it earlier in his career.- There's a huge discrepency on whether or not Max and Sarah dated, some websites report it but OP cannot confirm or deny this. But it does not look like these two are not as close as they originally were.of iCarly, Drake and Josh, and Despicable Me fame(circa 2010-2012)- Max was an extra on iCarly and eventually had a guest role and would often do interviews citing he was on iCarly but at the time... he was just an extra.- In 2010, Max told Access Hollywood for some reason that he and Miranda were just good friends. He was an extra on her hit show iCarly.- BUT, he also gave an interview where he... so shameless namedrops Miranda because he recently went on a date with her in 2010- The two were papped on a "date" two years later at the movies.- This was brief but the iCarly connection will come back around... but it also involves Chris Colfer which gets really confusing as OPof iCarly fame (circa 2011-?)- In now deleted videos on Jennette McCurdy's accounts, she and Max were at one point very close on set of iCarly as soon as Max actually guest starred in the episode instead of just walked around in the background.- Max mentions the videos both he and Jennette posted in an interview while also speaking about Miranda Cosgrove a lot- This will mark the first time the social climber has done a cover with his famous friend. Both Jennette and Max did a cover of Lean on Me together.- This also marks the first time his social climbing has led to dating rumors but this gets very messy because while iCarly fans thought Max was dating Jennette... Glee fans thought Chris Colfer was dating Max.of Glee, The Land of Stories, and A Tale of Magic fame (circa 2012)*OP will note that a lot of this tea comes from Klaine shipper receipts. OP will that most of these sources DO speculate his sexuality and OP does not endorse outing people*- Apparently the two were very close and Klaine shippers were convinced they were dating.- Max had spent time with Chris on tour of Glee and they were seen both sharing the same scarf and exchanging messages on Twitter- Max denied the two dated on Twitter and said they were just friends. This tweet has now been deleted.- Here's a thread that a Demi stan made recently (which OP will note this thread does speculates his sexuality but also showcases a better summary of Max and Chris friendship)of KC Undercover fame (circa 2014-2017)- This is Max's most publicized and longest relationship where most of the receipts can actually still be found today- Max and Veronica were "papped" together and went to events together while Veronica was on her Disney Channel show- Demi stans called out Max for making his proposal video song, a song he also dedicated to his ex Veronica.- The two even started their own Youtube channel which got deleted (no surprise)- Again... posted a cover with his more famous girlfriend which also got deleted.- And like always... in a deleted tweet he announced his breakup with Veronica that he is single of Shake it Up and making headlines fame (circa 2017)- He posted a cover with Bella Thorne! Wow! And guess what? The videos have been deleted but the articles are still live as always.- This would be the first time Max's musical endeavors could actually be seen in a music studio since there were posts about him working on music with Bella- He's papped with Bella Thorne in July of 2017- He moved in with Bella and surprise, surprise spoke to the paps about it.of... I think she's an influencer? (circa 2017-2020)- They were confirmed dating before he got with Demi- Max is inconsistent with his deleted Instagram stories because he posted fire emojis on his ex's Instagram post on September 22nd.On a completely unrelated note to his social climbing, Max also posted a notes app statement about being stalked by a fan which rings similar to his break in notes app post recently.Sources:ONTD, have you used someone for your own benefit? Did it work out or did it backfire on you?
New Delhi, Oct 1: Hitting out at the BJP government in Uttar Pradesh, the CPI(M) on Thursday said that the behaviour of the state police with senior opposition leaders was draconian. A 19-year-old Dalit woman was allegedly raped by four upper-caste men in Hathras on September 14 and referred to the Safdarjung hospital in Delhi on Monday with spinal cord injuries, paralysis and cuts in her tongue. She died around 3 am on Tuesday.

Her brutal death and subsequent cremation in the dead of the night in Hathras allegedly under police pressure on Tuesday triggered massive outrage over the law and order situation in UP and over women safety in general. Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi were on Thursday stopped from visiting Hathras.

The statement from the UP Police that it was not a case of rape makes clear the criminal actions of the state government when they hurriedly and forcibly cremated the victim in the dead of the night. Todays draconian behaviour of the UP state govt with senior opposition leaders to stop them from meeting the victims is unconstitutional and undemocratic. These actions happen at the behest of the top political leadership of the ruling party which has failed the country on all fronts. Such authoritarian and dictatorial moves are reflective of the desperation of the ruling party and will not be tolerated by the people of this country, said CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury in a tweet.

Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor
President Muhammadu Buhari Thursday blamed Nigerias leaders since the current democratic dispensation for the near destruction of the country.

Although the president did not mention the leaders by name, he made direct reference to those who presided over Nigeria between 1999 and 2015, questioning how such leaders had the impundence to criticise his administration.

Those in the previous Governments from 1999  2015 who presided over the near destruction of the country have now the impudence to attempt to criticize our efforts.

Nigerias presidents since 1999 are Olusegun Obasanjo (1999 to 2007), late Umaru YarAdua (2007 to 2010), and Goodluck Jonathan (2010 to 2015).

Thursdays statement was Mr Buharis first personal reaction since the latest criticism of his government by Mr Obasanjo.

PREMIUM TIMES reported how Mr Obasanjo lamented the worsening security and economic situation in the country, blaming Mr Buharis government for it.

Nigeria is fast drifting to a failed and badly divided state; economically our country is becoming a basket case and poverty capital of the world, and socially, we are firming up as an unwholesome and insecure country, Mr Obasanjo said.

Mr Obasanjos stance was backed by many Nigerians including Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka.

However, Mr Buharis aides including presidential spokesman Garba Shehu and information minister Lai Mohammed attacked Mr Obasanjo for the statement.

Mr Buharis Thursday statement, made as part of his 60th anniversuary speech, appeared to be his direct response to Mr Obasanjo.

WHAT MY GOVERNMENT IS DOING FOR WEAKER CITIZENS

The President while explaining the efforts his government have put in place to ease the hardship Nigerians are going through in the face of harsh economic realities said he has introduced unprecedented measures to the weakest members of the society.

He listed some of the intervention to be Tradermoni, Farmermoni, School Feeding Programme, Job creation efforts and Agricultural intervention programmes.

He said no government in the past did what they are doing with such scarce resources.

We have managed to keep things going in spite of the disproportionate spending on security.

Those in the previous Governments from 1999  2015 who presided over the near destruction of the country have now the impudence to attempt to criticize our efforts.

He said in the circumstances the country has found itself, a responsible government must face realities and take tough decisions.

BLAME GAMES

Since the president came into office in 2015, he has continued to blame his predecessors for most of the woes bedeviling the country.

One of the most recent was in 2019 when he played host to the new executive of Trade Union Congress (TUC).

Then, he accused the previous governments for the hardship Nigerians are currently going through.

You will agree with me that all these challenges and many more, were long ago left unattended to thereby leaving the country in the mired state we inherited.

You all will also testify to having seen and experienced what we have put in place as an administration to address these challenges, the president said.

Mr Buharis Thursday statement shows he is unperturbed by the criticisms from many Nigerians who accuse him of always throwing blames on past administrations rather than solving the problems.
CLEVELAND, OH / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / Mace Security International, Inc. (OTCQX:MACE) (the "Company") advises that it has paid the full balance of $600K of its commercial revolving credit facility (the "Loan") from TCF National Bank, successor-by-merger to Chemical Bank (the "Bank"). The company has sufficient cash balances to fulfil its other current debt obligations and working capital needs.

With the payment of the loan, the Company's balance sheet has few debt obligations. The remaining debt is related to a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) stimulus loan received in the second quarter of 2020 and a seller's note. The Company anticipates most of the PPP loan to be forgiven. Beyond the PPP loan, Mace has little debt and modest periodic payment obligations that can be met by ongoing cash flows from operations.

President and CEO Gary Medved commented: "It can be challenging to be presented with short notice to fulfill the terms of a financial obligation, especially in today's economic climate. Nevertheless, Mace has fulfilled its obligation. We have shifted our focus to determining a new financing arrangement with a partner who wants to join Mace for its next stage of growth. It still remains a mystery why TCF National Bank called the loan."

Executive Chairman Sanjay Singh commented: "We were more than surprised to learn that TCF was calling its loan with us given that the company's market value has increased by $20MM in the last six months and the balance sheet continues to improve. The current assets have grown as has cash in the last six months. We are proud to be a small company that is enjoying substantial growth and doing its absolute best to meet its customers' needs. The company's mission is to empower those in a vulnerable situation, and we are deeply committed to that."

The Company expects to secure a replacement revolving credit facility in the next ninety days to fund its working capital needs driven by double digit growth in the order backlog. Should the Company be unable to secure a replacement for working capital financing in the next six to twelve months, this could have a materially adverse effect on the Company's ability to build inventory and further increase sales.

About Mace Security International, Inc.

Mace Security International Inc. is a globally recognized leader in personal safety products. Based in Cleveland, Ohio, the Company has spent more than 30 years designing and manufacturing consumer and tactical products for personal defense and security under its world-renowned Mace Brand - the original trusted brand of pepper spray products. The Company's other leading brands include Tornado Brand stun guns and pepper spray, and Vigilant Brand personal alarms. The Company also offers aerosol defense sprays for law enforcement and security professionals worldwide through its Take Down Brand.

Mace Security International distributes and supports its products and services through mass-market retailers, wholesale distributors, independent dealers, e-commerce channels and through its website, www.Mace.com. For more information, please visit www.mace.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements and information included in this press release constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Federal Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this press release, the words or phrases "will likely result," "are expected to," "will continue," "is anticipated," "estimate," "projected," "intend to" or similar expressions are intended to identify "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements are subject to certain risks, known and unknown, and uncertainties, including but not limited to economic conditions, dependence on management, our ability to compete with competitors, dilution to shareholders, and limited capital resources.

Press Contact:

Gary Medved, President & CEO

gmedved@mace.com

(440) 424-5322

SOURCE: Mace Security International, Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/608698/Mace-Satisfies-Revolving-Credit-Facility-Amidst-Continued-Growth-in-Orders
WATERLOO  A pedestrian was struck by a passing vehicle Monday night.

The accident happened at about 8:12 p.m. at the intersection of Ansborough Avenue and Sergeant Road.

The driver stopped at the scene following the collision and called 911, according to Waterloo police. Paramedics with Waterloo Fire Rescue took her to MercyOne Medical Center for treatment.

The identity and condition of the pedestrian werent immediately available, but police said she is a 27-year-old Waterloo woman, and her injuries are serious.

Man shot in ankle faces gun charge

WATERLOO  A Waterloo man who was shot in the ankle last week has been arrested.

Police said when they found Demitrius Shambray Cannon injured with a bullet wound early Friday, he was trying to discard a pistol.

Cannon, 34, is prohibited from handling guns because of felony convictions in Wisconsin. When he was released from the hospital Monday, Waterloo police arrested him for felon in possession of a firearm. Bond was set at $25,000.

According to police, a patrol officer was inside the Kwik Star at West Fourth Street and Kimball Avenue on Friday when someone entered the store and told him there was a shooting outside.

The officer noticed Cannon crawling across the street, and as he approached to help, Cannon tossed a small semi-automatic pistol.

Police are still investigating the incident, and no one has been arrested for shooting Cannon.

Police investigate robbery of store

WATERLOO  Police are investigating an armed robbery at a Waterloo store Tuesday morning.

A gunman walked into Alis Corner on East Fourth Street around 9:30 a.m. and pointed a weapon at the clerk, according to police.

The suspect fled before police arrived, and it wasnt clear if anything was taken.

The robber was wearing a black hat, a black coat and a mask, police said.

No injuries were reported.

Waterloo child hit by vehicle

WATERLOO  A child was taken to the hospital after being hit by a vehicle Tuesday afternoon.

The child, who appeared to be about 3 years old, was conscious and alert, authorities said. Paramedics with Waterloo Fire Rescue took the child to a hospital for treatment, and police said the injuries dont appear to be life threatening.

The accident happened in the 500 block of Cottage Street around 4 p.m. Tuesday, and the driver remained at the scene.

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Canadian alt-right YouTuber Lauren Southern has quietly been punted from the speakers' list for the upcoming Conservative Political Action Conference.

CPAC 2020  which is pretty much Woodstock for the Sky After Dark crowd  kicks off in Sydney on November 4 and just in time to coincide with the US election. This year's theme? "Fightback - your voice is your weapon".

Far right Canadian YouTuber Lauren Southern has been dropped from the Conservative Political Action Conference in Sydney. Credit:YouTube

But it appears Southern's voice on this occasion is not wanted by CPAC.

The Institute of Public Affairs, which sponsors the event, is believed to have been among those who raised concerns about Southern's inclusion.
Andujar Oliver: Vinicius was offside, but the ball came off a Real Valladolid player last Real Madrid vs Real Valladolid Goal allowed to stand at Di Stefano

Vinicius Junior was the benefactor of sloppy defending from Real Valladolid at the Estadio Alfredo Di Stefano on Wednesday night.

The Real Madrid forward saw the ball come off a Valladolid defender before finding the net at the back post to score the winner for the hosts.

Although the Valladolid players had their hands up appealing for offside, Juan Andujar Oliver explains how the officials made the right decision.

"Although the position of the Brazilian is offside, the last touch of the ball comes off an opponent, Bruno [Gonzalez] to be exact, which allows the forward to score," Andujar Oliver told Radio MARCA.
 Flash

The Annual Baltic Conference on Defense (ABCD) has focused on the impact of the global COVID-19 crisis on defense and security policy and on the role defense forces and reservists could play in helping the civilian authorities in crises.

In her opening address on Wednesday, Estonian President Kersti Kaljulaid said the reserve army and conscription model of Estonia's defense forces ensured that her country has a large, combat-ready and quickly deployable war-time army, hailing the positive societal impact of conscription and reserve service.

"It is probably why we have a relatively stable political and societal consensus on spending at least two percent of GDP (gross domestic product) on defense," said Kaljulaid.

In keynote speeches, Portuguese Defense Minister Joao Gomes Cravinho and his Estonian counterpart Juri Luik tackled the defense policies of the European Union (EU) and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) as well as cybersecurity, describing the role played by the Allied troops in Europe as defense and deterrence.

Estonian Prime Minister Juri Ratas said that his country will not make, under any conditions, compromises on the expenses related to the strengthening of national defense, which are increased to 645 million euros (755.6 million U.S. dollars) or 2.29 percent of GDP in the 2021 state budget submitted to the Estonian parliament later that day.

"Combating the coronavirus pandemic requires an inclusive approach and creates a challenge for the entire society," Ratas said, adding that the coronavirus crisis had proved how important international cooperation was.

Under the theme of "Strengthening Baltic Societal Resilience and Military Defense," the conference was organized by the International Center for Defense and Security and the Ministry of Defense of Estonia, among others.
Former drug addict arrested as Captain America during burglary shares story of faith, healing

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When David Hobbs looks at pictures from one year ago, he barely recognizes himself.

In September 2019, he was arrested in Clarksdale, Mississippi, after breaking into the backyard shed of a former Marine. High on drugs at the time of his arrest, Hobbs was dressed head to toe in a Captain America costume and fairy wings. His mugshot went viral, and Hobbs quickly became the source of mockery for millions of social media spectators.

But fast forward one year, and Hobbs is a new man  healthy, whole, and on Oct. 23 he will receive a one-year sobriety award during an upcoming pastor's conference from Good Landing Recovery, a holistic faith-based organization in Atlanta, Georgia.

"I never thought I would ever get out of addiction, Hobbs told The Christian Post. I thought it was going to be my life. But God has shown me Im not just a society throw away. It's all worth it for all of us to strive to have a better life. If I can do it, anybody can do it.

Hobbs' road to health and healing was an unlikely one. A self-described active addict for two decades, he began experimenting with drugs and alcohol as a teen, and after a series of car accidents, became addicted to painkillers.

At the time of his September 2019 arrest, Hobbs had already had several run-ins with the law and was on probation for a grand larceny conviction. Charged with burglary and held on a $25,000 bond, he now faced even more jail time.

I hit absolute rock bottom, he admitted. I believed I wasnt good enough to get sober. I thought, this is just the hand Ive been dealt.

Hobbs' story captured the attention of Newsweek, Los Angeles Times, New York Post and other media, and eventually that of Good Landing founder and CEO Trey Lewis. But unlike the media outlets  all of which poked fun at the circumstances of his arrest  Lewis saw Hobbs' as a man worthy of receiving compassion, empathy, and freedom from addiction.

A friend of mine sent me Davids story, and I recognized him immediately, Lewis told CP. We were from the same small town in Mississippi and used to get high together 20-some years ago.

A former methamphetamine addict with four DUIs on his record, Lewis had been to 10 treatment centers before embracing Christianity in 2005. After experiencing freedom from addiction, he decided to open an inpatient residential treatment facility to help others struggling in the same way.

So when I came across Davids story, I called his mother immediately and said, We want to help him. If hes interested, theres a place for him in our facility, Lewis recalled. As the entire world is laughing at David, he is in a jail cell and there's a mom that is talking to him every night, that is just horrified, embarrassed, and just can't believe that it's all over social media. Its not funny when its attached to real people. It was heartbreaking.

When faced with the opportunity to get help, Hobbs immediately accepted.

I said, 'Absolutely. I would love to go,' he said. I didn't know what to expect. I'd never been to rehab before in my life; I'd never been sober in my life. But I wanted to get clean in my addiction, so when Trey reached out to my family and gave me the resources to get clean, I accepted. Thankfully, a judge agreed to allow me to participate in rehab instead of serving jail time."

The second Hobbs walked into Good Landing, he demonstrated leadership, purpose, focus, Lewis said, adding: He had all of the ingredients for a remarkable comeback story.

At Good Landing, Hobbs told CP he learned how to process emotions and feelings, overcome his battle with addiction  and, most importantly, renewed his relationship with God.

God's timing is always perfect, he said. I don't think Good Landing is just any rehab; its a rehab where God's at the center of everything they do. That was the thing that really changed it for me. Putting God at the center of my heart and in the center of my life is really what kept me sober.

Thirty days of sobriety turned into 60, and then 90, and eventually, 365. Receiving the one-year sobriety award, Hobbs said, was nothing short of remarkable.

This award shows me how much Ive grown, he said. Before, anytime something bad would happen or someone would say something negative about me, I always had the mindset that I would prove them right. I just figured, Well, this is who I am. Im an addict.

But those are all lies," he added. "That's just what fear tells us. That's what the enemy tells us. But we all deserve a good, sober life and a good relationship with God. These are the things that I've been taught since I've been here at Good Landing.

According to Lewis, there are 20 million addicts in the United States older than age 12, and there's typically a 20% success rate and an 80% failure rate.

The 80% failure rate is typically attributed to the common denominator of pride, he shared. People know that they that they need help, but they always want to circumvent the process.

When Good Landing opened in November 2017, the facility had just one client and two staff members. Today, its the largest PHP IOP program in Atlanta with 90-95 clients and over 40 staff members.

Lewis believes Good Landing's commitment to keeping Christ at the center of the ministry is the key to the facility's success.

When we decided to start Good Landing, people were telling us we couldnt have a faith-driven Christian program and health care, that people wouldnt respond to it, he said. I remember really wavering on that. But Jesus is at the forefront of everything that we are. I believe God breathed on it and took us to where we are today.

Jesus, he stressed, is the only way out of addiction. Hes the only one who can bring freedom in this life and in the life to come.

Treating those struggling with addiction with empathy, kindness, and compassion is crucial, Lewis said, stressing that no one answered an altar call and said, 'God, please make me an addict.'

I don't think there is just this textbook type approach to every person, but I do think that we all need to have empathy and realize that this person did not ask for disordered brain chemistry, he said.

We need to realize that, once they get addicted, they forfeit the ability to be able to choose. That's when we, the people that love them, their support system, have to step in and fight for them and love them when they won't love themselves.

Addiction and recovery are not just medical issues; theyre spiritual issues, too, he said. Unfortunately, many churches and church leaders arent aware of the magnitude of the problem  or theyre simply ill-equipped to help those struggling.

Churches need to be informed and know theyre sending their people to a safe place where Jesus is at the forefront, Lewis emphasized.

Today, Hobbs is on staff at Good Landing where he reminds others struggling with addiction that no one is beyond redemption. Hes absolutely killing it here, Lewis said.

It doesn't matter how far you have fallen, there's always a path of sobriety and redemption, Hobbs said. You just have to be willing to get clean and have an open heart and mind to the people that are speaking into your life. Getting sober and changing your life is possible. Youre never too far gone.
Members of the Proud Boys, including leader Enrique Tarrio, second from left, rally with right-wing demonstrators in Portland, Ore., on Saturday. During Tuesday night's debate, President Trump didn't condemn white supremacist groups and their role in violence this summer. Instead, he said the violence is a "left-wing" problem and told the Proud Boys to "stand back and stand by." (John Locher / Associated Press)

President Trump on Tuesday again refused to condem white supremacists and nationalist groups. When asked during his debate with Joe Biden to disavow the Proud Boys, an extremist right-wing organization with an ardent following in Oregon, the president said the group should stand back and stand by. The groups leadership regarded the comments, which Trump sought to walk back Wednesday, as an endorsement similar to the one he gave white supremacists who who marched in Charlottesville, Va., in 2017.

People take a knee as an organizer reads a prayer to the crowd of several hundred gathered during a Proud Boys rally at Delta Park in Portland, Ore., on Saturday. (Maranie R. Staab / AFP/Getty Images)

Members of the Proud Boys lead a prayer at a right-wing rally Saturday in Portland. (Maranie R. Staab / AFP/Getty Images)

Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio, right, embraces a fellow member during a Saturday rally in Portland. Oregon Gov. Kate Brown declared a state of emergency in anticipation of potential violence between the Proud Boys and anti-racism, anti-fascist protesters. (Nathan Howard / Getty Images)

A man hold his hand to his heart during the Proud Boys rally at Delta Park in Portland. (Maranie R. Staab / AFP/Getty Images)

Members of the Proud Boys and other right-wing demonstrators march across the Hawthorne Bridge in Portland in 2019. The group includes organizer Joe Biggs, center in green hat, and Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio, holding megaphone. (Noah Berger / Associated Press )

Joseph Oakman and fellow Proud Boys members plant a flag in Portland's Tom McCall Waterfront Park in 2019. (Noah Berger / Associated Press )

A member of the Proud Boys gestures into the face of a counter-protester in Portland. (John Locher / Associated Press)

Members of the Proud Boys and other right-wing demonstrators rally Saturday in Portland. (John Locher / Associated Press)

A couple pose with a Trump flag during the Proud Boys rally in Portland. (Maranie R. Staab / AFP/Getty Images)

Several hundred members of the Proud Boys and other right-wing demonstrators gather in Portland. (Maranie R. Staab / AFP/Getty Images)

A man holds a Gadsden flag in the shape of Oregon during the Proud Boys rally in Portland. (Maranie R. Staab / AFP/Getty Images)

Demonstrators raise flags during the Proud Boys rally in Portland. (Maranie R. Staab / AFP/Getty Images)

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Loath to be seen profiting from the economic disaster caused by the coronavirus, the nations biggest banks were quick to pledge that they would donate to charity any money earned from helping deliver the governments signature small-business relief plan.

That promise may be something of a mirage.

The banks that were the largest lenders under the Paycheck Protection Program, handing out government-backed loans and collecting a fee from taxpayers for their trouble, now say their expenses were so high that they expect to make next to nothing on the loans.

At JPMorgan Chase, the chief financial officer, Jennifer Piepszak, said on a quarterly earnings call in July that profit from the program will be near zero. Her counterpart at Bank of America, Paul M. Donofrio, said he did not expect much profit, if any.

The $525 billion program handed banks at least $13 billion in fees, according to a New York Times analysis of data from the Small Business Administration. The agency, which managed the program, has not released detailed fee information, and few banks have disclosed how much they took in. Their true profits wont be known until the loans, which will be forgiven if borrowers meet certain criteria, are all paid off or resolved.
Feeding babies delivered via cesarean section (C-section) their mother's poop may help them develop healthy microbiota, a new small study suggests.

Infants born this way have an increased risk of allergies and asthma because they are not exposed to the bacteria from the mother's vagina and perineum during birth.

In a drastic approach, researchers diluted a small amount of the mother's feces into breast milk and fed it to the newborn shortly after delivery.

The team, from the Pediatric Research Center at the University of Helsinki, found the process was safe and that, within three months, the babies had gut bacteria that resembled those of babies born vaginally am not of those born via C-section who did not receive a transplant.

A new study from the University of Helsinki found that C-section babies who had a small amount of their mothers' feces fed to them at birth had gut bacteria similar to infants born vaginally (file image)

'From a clinical point of view, this transfer of microbial material is happening during a vaginal delivery,' said co-senior author Sture Andersson, a professor at the University of Helsinki in Finland.

'This is a gift the mother gives to her baby.'

Fecal transplantation - which has become more popular in recent years - is the transfer of stool from a healthy donor into the gastrointestinal tract of a patient.

The stool contains roughly 1,000 different species of bacteria that act as probiotics and replenish the digestive tract with bacteria.

Once doctors determine the sample is safe, they add saline to dissolve it and run it through a coffee filter to eliminate particles.

After birth, a baby's immune system begins to develop in response to the microbes they have been exposed to.

Not being exposed to certain types of bacteria can increase the risk of allergies and conditions such as asthma.

Past research has focused on whether or not swabbing a C-section newborn's skin with vaginal fluid right upon delivery reduces this risk.

For the new study, published in the journal Cell, the team recruited seven women scheduled to have C-sections at Helsinki University Hospital.

Researchers collected fecal samples from the mothers three weeks before delivery and gave it to the babies shortly after birth.

The infants remained in the hospital for two days following the transplant to ensure they did not suffer from any complications.

Their gut bacteria was tested at birth and then at two days, one week, two weeks, three weeks and three months.

Results were compared against data collected from previous studies of babies born via vaginal delivery and those who did not receive transplants at the same hospital.

They found that by the time the babies were three months old, those who had received fecal transplants had similar gut bacteria to babies born vaginally.

'This was not designed as a safety study, but we found it to be effective and supporting the concept of vertical transfer from mother to baby,' said co-senior author Dr Willem de Vos, of the Human Microbiome Research Program at the University of Helsinki.

'However, it's very important to tell people that this is not something they should try on their own. The samples have to be tested for safety and suitability.'

For future research, the teams plans to have two groups, a fecal transplant group and a control group, to compare the results and the mothers will not know if their babies received the transplant or not.
Irelands classes are the largest in EU and well above the European average of 20 pupils per class. Our average class size is 25 pupils, but the reality is that one in five children in Ireland is taught in a class of 30 or more.

Keeping an adequate distance between children, or even groups of children, in the average Irish classroom, when you have more than 30 children in that room, is a near impossible task.

Our supersized classes hindered our ability to reopen schools and may well challenge Micheal Martins great intentions to keep them open.

In Kildare, 18% of pupils learn in classes of more than 30 children.

As we approach this years budget, it seems we may have to live with this pandemic in our communities well into the future. If we want to keep our schools open, we simply have to lower our class sizes and that needs to happen in the budget.

The INTO is asking the government to commit to reducing the class sizes by one pupil per class per year over the lifetime of the government, starting in the forthcoming budget.

The government must, now more than ever, deliver on its commitment to tackle supersized classes.

Great effort has gone into getting our schools opened safely. Lets now ensure that we can keep them open.

Mary Magner is the president of the Irish National Teachers Organisation
New Delhi

The saga of airline ticket refunds finally came to an end on Thursday with the Supreme Court signing off on the Central governments proposal of airlines refunding money within three weeks for air tickets booked during the lockdown, and either within 15 days or through passenger credit till March 31 next year for tickets booked before the lockdown.

The move ends months of uncertainty for passengers who saw the flights on which they booked tickets being cancelled on account of the lockdown imposed to fight the coronavirus disease. Scheduled air services restarted in India only on May 25.

This formulation, proposed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) after consultation with airlines and travel agents, was largely accepted by all stakeholders, in view of the unprecedented situation created by the pandemic.

Accepting the suggestions of the DGCA in entirety, a three-judge bench comprising justices Ashok Bhushan, R Subhash Reddy, and MR Shah said, Strict enforcement of Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) at this moment (that required immediate refund of tickets) may not yield any meaningful result for any stakeholder. We also feel that such formulations (framed by DGCA and Ministry of Civil Aviation) are workable solutions in these peculiar circumstances which are prevailing in the country.

According to the order, if a passenger booked a ticket during the lockdown (from March 25 to May 24) for domestic or international travel during this period, he/she shall be entitled to full refund (without cancellation charges) to be made by the airline (Indian and foreign carrier) within three weeks from the date of cancellation. In cases where the ticket was booked through a travel agent, this money will be routed to the passenger through the agent. For international travel, the court dealt only with ex-India flights (originating from India) although during the hearing of the petitions, DGCA accepted that the benefit of refund will be available on flights originating outside the country provided the ticket was booked in India.

For tickets booked prior to the lockdown period, the court asked airlines to make all endeavours to refund the collected amount to the passenger within 15 days beginning Thursday. If on account of financial distress, any airline(s) are not able to do so, they shall provide credit shell, equal to the amount of fare collected, in the name of passenger when the booking is done either directly or through travel agent, so as to consume the same on or before March 31, 2021, the order said.

The order came on a petition filed by passengers represented through Pravasi Legal Cell and Air Passengers Association. The Federation of Travel Agents filed a separate petition demanding that the credit shell should be issued in the name of the agent as in several cases passengers were yet to pay for the tickets. DGCA objected to this suggestion as it recognised only the relationship between an airline and the passenger. The bench resolved the situation by directing that the passenger be free to transfer the shell to any person, including the travel agent.

Airlines such as IndiGo, SpiceJet, GoAir, Vistara and AirAsia were represented in the matter through their respective counsel. While most airlines were satisfied by the DGCAs formulation, GoAir requested the court to extend the shell period till March 31, 2022 because airlines have been hit hard by the pandemic . The airline cited a report by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) which showed 2020 as the worst year in the history of airlines with net losses of $84.3 billion posing a risk to 32 million jobs worldwide.

The bench was not inclined to extend the period. Justice Reddy, writing the judgment for the bench, said, We are not inclined to accept the same keeping in mind that the passengers who, with the hope of travel, have booked their tickets by spending their own money.

Vistara and AirAsia objected to the interest on the credit. According to DGCA, the airline will pay 0.5% interest from the date of cancellation till June 30 this year and thereafter 0.75% per month till March 31, 2021.

Arvind Datar, lawyer for Go Air, responding to the DGCAs scheme, said, In two months we have disbursed Rs 40 crore refund and have to repay Rs 266 crore. Our flights are operating at 60% strength, prices have been capped, fuel charges have increased and we have to pay salaries to our workforce. From today, the deadline to make full refund expires in six months.
Californians suffering a hellish wildfire season just got a sliver of hope: Meteorologists say we could start to see measurable rain as soon as a week from now.

A number of forecast models show about a 50% likelihood that the Bay Area will receive above normal precipitation from Oct. 8-14, according to the National Weather Service.

The experts cautioned that nothing is guaranteed. Theres increasing likelihood  now I wouldnt call it a slam dunk at all, said Scott Rowe, a meteorologist for the NWS Sacramento office, on Thursday.

But its still better than nothing.

Whats driving the predicted change in the weather pattern? California is in its transition month from dry to wet, Rowe said. Its just the change in seasons, simply put.

Specifically, an upper level ridge of high pressure that has been sitting over the West Coast for the last week or so, driving above-normal temperatures, is forecast to break down. That would allow temperatures to moderate a little, and bring in the potential for some precipitation.

Keep in mind that in California, normal precipitation for October is pretty low  but above normal still means greater than zero.

Meteorologists cautioned that a lot can change, weather-wise, within the next couple weeks. The precipitation predictions are still relatively low confidence as theyre several days out, said Gerry Diaz, a meteorologist for the NWSs Bay Area office.

But a pattern change could bring some relief for millions of Northern Californians amid this devastating and deadly wildfire season that included hazardous streaks of air quality across the state.

The blazes from Augusts lightning strikes have finally been contained after six weeks, but the Glass Fire now raging in Napa and Sonoma counties has prompted evacuations from many areas that were just rebuilding from previous wildfires.

Fire Tracker Follow wildfires across the state Latest updates on wildfires burning across Northern and Southern California

And the Bay Area weather forecast for the near future is foreboding, including strong winds and scorching heat that could propel the Glass Fire past containment lines. A red flag warning indicating critical fire conditions was in place through Friday morning. A Spare the Air alert is in place through Tuesday, with widespread smoke creating unhealthy air quality.

But, Eventually, it will rain, Rowe said. The million dollar question, though, remains exactly when.

Annie Vainshtein is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: avainshtein@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @annievain
Judge Amy Coney Barrett speaks after President Trump announced her as his nominee to the Supreme Court at the White House on Saturday. (Associated Press)

Judge Amy Coney Barrett, President Trump's nominee to the Supreme Court, has already weighed in on one of the most significant and controversial cases it is scheduled to consider this fall  albeit in a mock exercise.

And, contrary to what many Democrats fear, her position on the moot court that considered the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, went mostly against the Trump administration's stance.

One week after the election, the Supreme Court is scheduled to hear a case in which Republican officials of Texas and a coalition of other conservative states have asked the justices to strike down the entire law. The Trump administration has joined them. California Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra, joined by officials of a number of Democratic-led states, is defending the law.

Just one week before the death of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, whom she has been nominated to replace, Barrett participated in a mock court hearing on the pending case. She was part of an eight-judge panel that heard the mock arguments, conducted at William & Mary Law School.

None of the judges ruled in favor of the administration and Republican states' request to strike down the law.

Five of the judges ruled that one part of the law  the so-called individual mandate, which Congress has already effectively nullified  was unconstitutional, but that the rest of the healthcare law could stay in place. The other three judges would have thrown out the case, arguing that the conservative states challenging the law did not have standing to bring the suit.

It's not known which side Barrett was on because the participants' votes were not revealed, according to a person who viewed the session and declined to be identified.

What is known is that she previously had been publicly critical of the Supreme Court's 2012 opinion, written by Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr., that first upheld the act. The chief justice "pushed the Affordable Care Act beyond its plausible meaning to save the statute," she wrote in a 2017 essay. Barrett hasn't publicly commented on the current case.

Story continues

Moot courts are meant to be educational role-playing exercises; few who engage in such sessions would suggest that Barretts vote telegraphed how she would vote in the actual case. William & Mary law professor Allison Orr Larsen told attendees, "You should not take the questions we ask or the arguments we make as personal endorsements, according to a post on the schools website.

Still, the event provides a clue of how President Trump's third nominee to the Supreme Court might rule on one of the most significant cases of the year.

The timing of the mock session was coincidental  coming just before Ginsburg's death would propel Barrett in line for a high court seat. Barrett almost certainly would not have participated in a mock court session on a pending Supreme Court case if she had had any idea she might be on the bench to help decide it.

Democrats have made the healthcare case a key part of both their 2020 election strategy and their opposition to Barretts nomination. Just this week, Democrats began airing a campaign advertisement in Florida warning that Trump wants to get a Supreme Court justice confirmed before the election in order to have a vote to strike down the healthcare law.

The challenge before the Supreme Court is the latest attempt by opponents of the law to get it thrown out. Twice before, the high court has upheld the law's core components.

If the justices were to agree with the administration and Republican states, millions of Americans could lose their health insurance. And gone would be one of the law's most popular provisions, its requirement that insurance companies provide coverage to people with preexisting medical conditions, with policies and premiums comparable to what other customers have.

The first time the Supreme Court upheld the healthcare law, Roberts' opinion said Congress had the authority to require that people either purchase insurance or pay a fine because the financial penalty could be considered a tax. In 2017, as part of the Trump tax cut law, Congress cut the penalty for not having insurance to $0, effectively eliminating the mandate.

That opened the door to the current legal challenge. Shortly after the tax law was signed, Texas and other Republican-led states filed suit, charging that because the penalty was now zero, it could no longer be considered a tax. And because the mandate and its penalty were a central part of the healthcare law, if they were invalidated, the entire law would have to be struck down.

A federal district judge in Texas agreed in late 2018. Late in 2019, the U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals issued an inconclusive 2-1 opinion that sent the case back to the district court. In March, the Supreme Court agreed to hear the case.

During the mock session, Barrett asked skeptical questions about whether the governments taxing authority still justified keeping the individual mandate. According to the recollections of the person who viewed the session, she asked several questions about its constitutionality.

Barrett disclosed her participation in the mock court in a recent filing with the Senate Judiciary Committee, in a questionnaire required of judicial nominees, but she did not provide a video link or any other notes.

Democrats are all but certain to raise the issue in her confirmation hearing, which is tentatively scheduled for mid-October. In a recent floor speech, Sen. Christopher S. Murphy (D-Conn.) complained that Republicans renewed their effort to kill Obamacare in the courts after they failed in 2017 to repeal the law in Congress, and that they ultimately are counting on Trump's appointees on the Supreme Court to support them.

"The president started by putting Neil Gorsuch on the court, continued with Brett Kavanaugh, and now, one vote away from being able to overturn the Affordable Care Act, he now has a chance with the nomination of Amy Coney Barrett, to finally get what he couldn't get done in the elected branch of American government: the full repeal and elimination of the Affordable Care Act with nothing to replace it," Murphy said.





This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Its increasingly clear that Pennsylvania will determine the winner of Novembers presidential election. Whats less clear for many is how to win the state. Too many, including those in Joe Bidens camp, remain solely focused on white working-class voters and suburban moms. This strategy misses the mark: Winning Pennsylvania requires focusing at least as much on Black, Latino, and young voters.

In 2016, Donald Trump carried Pennsylvania by roughly 40,000 votes. This razor-thin margin of victory included many white working-class voters and suburbanites  but it was also a reflection of the Clinton campaigns failure to fully engage and energize Black, Latino, and young voters. Though Latino turnout in 2016 increased compared with 2012, the Latino share of the vote was far below Latinos share of eligible voters in Pennsylvania. More than 200,000 eligible Pennsylvania Latino voters didnt vote in 2016, according to U.S. Census data. Thats in addition to more than 350,000 eligible Black Pennsylvania voters who did not vote, plus many youths who also stayed home.

These lower turnouts reflect a number of factors, including economic barriers to voting (like having a harder time taking off work or having fewer transportation options to get to the polls), plus disinformation efforts from the Trump campaign and others. In 2016, the Trump campaign hired a firm that helped it identify Black voters whom it could deter from voting. But the turnouts also reflect an organizing failure among Democrats, who too often take support from Black and Latino voters for granted, or fail to engage people who have voted less frequently in the past.

 READ MORE: Berks County reflects an urban-rural trend that could deliver Pa. to Trump | Opinion

In 2020, Democrats and progressives committed to defeating Donald Trump need to focus on Black and Latino voters, who could well be the margin of victory. Black and Latino voters overwhelmingly reject Trump. If Black voters turn out at or above 2012 levels, and Latino voters increase their vote share to more closely reflect their portion of the electorate  and if young people who lean progressive turn out at higher numbers  they can easily overcome the 40,000 vote deficit from 2016 and deny Trump the Electoral College votes in Pennsylvania he desperately needs to win.

Reaching these voters requires investment and mobilization. The progressive organization I lead, Make the Road Action in Pennsylvania, is focused on making two million phone calls and sending one million text messages to voters in 10 counties across Pennsylvania. Were focusing specifically on Black and Latino voters, with a bilingual team ready to connect with Spanish speakers in their native language. This one-on-one voter contact strategy  which begins by asking people about the issues they care about and having real, honest conversations  works. In 2016, our internal analysis showed a 20% increase in turnout in key precincts where we engaged voters in communities like Reading and Allentown, compared with the last similar election.

Winning Pennsylvania will require similar efforts to reach Black, Latino, and young folks early and often. Communicating with voters is particularly important this year, as COVID raises many questions about voting, including by mail, and voters continue to receive misinformation designed to sow confusion and reduce turnout, such as Trump tweeting to North Carolina voters to vote twice, which is illegal.

 READ MORE: Kamala Harris wants to speak to the Black community. Are we ready to listen? | Solomon Jones

We need to use all our resources to reach Black, Latino, and young voters, make sure they have a plan to vote, and follow up to make sure their vote has been cast. If Democrats fail to invest enough dollars and energy in this type of engagement, as they did in 2016, Pennsylvania may well remain out of reach. And those who suffer most will be the very voters that they have failed to engage.

Our communities future depends on 2020 being different. Deeper engagement in Black and brown communities is the way America wins and builds a better country.

Maegan Llerena is the director of Make the Road Action in Pennsylvania, a community organization building power in Latino, Black, and immigrant communities. @maeganllerena @MakeRoadActPA
Reports of at least 382 people arrested since 20 September. Dissident tycoon Mohamed Ali calls for new protests one year after the demonstrations in Cairo. Fr. Rafic: disinformation campaign. The Covid-19 pandemic has increased hardship, the government has invested in industry and construction.

Cairo (AsiaNews) - Egypt is going through "a general situation of hardship" due to the new coronavirus pandemic, which "hit various sectors, first of all tourism, which is at a very low level. However, there are no significant street protests and there are no close details.

Fr. Rafic Greiche, president of the Communications Committee of the Council of Churches of Egypt, denies recent reports of demonstrations in the country, repressed by force by the authorities. "The arrests, this is fake news or unconfirmed rumors" resulting from disinformation that could also be linked to foreign nations "like Turkey", with which a clash is taking place "on various fronts, from Libya to gas and crude oil in the Middle East ".

According to some activist groups, since 20 September at least 382 people have been arrested in the context of small street demonstrations or protests against President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. The measures would be linked to a strengthening of security measures, coinciding with the first anniversary of the September 2019 demonstrations in Cairo, promoted by the exiled magnate and actor Mohamed Ali.

Even in these hours, the tycoon would be fuelling the protest against the president and the Cairo authorities, posting critical videos and calling for new street demonstrations. In some videos, which have been circulating for days, small groups can be seen protesting in different parts of the country. However, there are no independent confirmations of arrests and the district attorney's office itself does not refer to them, instead announcing the release of 68 recently arrested minors for their participation in "riots and protests".

Economic problems and unemployment are at the root of the discontent. The government has responded by strengthening the security in strategic places such as Tahrir Square, symbol of past demonstrations. As in the rest of the world, the new coronavirus pandemic has exacerbated pre-existing problems and increased the level of unemployment, especially youth unemployment.

The Muslim Brotherhood - says Fr. Rafic - they use social media to relaunch demonstrations, but there are no confirmations and I deny the information relating to a greater presence of policemen in Cairo or other areas. Perhaps there may be links to the arrest "at the end of August of the leader of the armed wing of the Brotherhood and number two Mahmoud Ezzat.

"The movement - he adds - wants to fuel confusion and instability but citizens have had enough and are much more interested in economic and social problems, in the Covid-19 pandemic". On the subject of coronavirus, the priest comments, "there are just over a hundred cases a day" and it is not an alarming figure "on a population of over one hundred million people, although many do not even go to hospitals and try to be treated at home".

In terms of security, "the situation has improved", also because the attacks and fundamentalist violence have reduced due to the pandemic. At an economic level, the greatest difficulties "are recorded in the tourism sector, which is why the government has decided to relaunch other sectors, especially construction and industry, primarily food exports such as oranges, watermelons sold to the European market".
Myanmar police have arrested 14 university student activists for protesting over the armed conflict in western Rakhine state, while about 30 others have gone into hiding to avoid arrest, an official from a student union umbrella organization said Tuesday.

The students, most of whom are members of the All Burma Federation of Student Unions (ABFSU), have staged anti-war demonstrations and posted stickers on utility poles in several cities since Sept. 10, including Myanmars second-largest city Mandalay, Pakokku in Magway region, and Monywa in Sagaing region.

The ABSFU is the umbrella organization for all student unions in Myanmar, advocating for academic freedoms and student rights throughout the Southeast Asian country.

The students demanded an end to the war between Myanmar forces and the rebel Arakan Army (AA) that has raged in northern Rakhine and in Paletwa township of next-door Chin state since late 2018. Nearly 300 civilians have died, more than 640 have been injured, and 220,000 people have been displaced from their homes.

They also called for an end to a government-ordered internet service blackout in the conflict-affected townships.

Among those arrested are three students from Yadanabon University, three from Meiktila University, three from Monywa University, one from Pakokku University, one from Kanbalu AGTI, two from Pyi University, and one from Co-operative College. The universities are all located in Mandalay, Sagaing, Bago, and Magway regions.

Students from Pakokku University in Magway region were arrested on Sept. 27 while they were at a student union office on campus, said ABSFU vice chairman Aung Pyae Sone Phyo from the University of Education in Yangon.

The Co-operative College student was picked up the same day, while the pair of students from Pyi University and were arrested on Monday, he said.

Police also apprehended two students from Meiktila University at a teashop and two others from Yadanabon University while they were campaigning, Aung Pyae Sone Phyo said.

Four police trucks came onto the Pakokku University campus and arrested the students without asking permission from the rector, he told RFA. Others were taken from their houses by police in civilian clothes.

Multiple charges

The students, who are being detained at the No. 6 Police Station in Mandalay, attended their first hearing on Monday on charges of violating Section 19 of the Peaceful Assembly and Peaceful Procession Law, Sections 505(a and b) of the Penal Code, and Section 25 of Natural Disaster Management Law.

Section 19 of the Peaceful Assembly and Peaceful Procession Law entails criminal liability for organizing or participating in an assembly for which notice has not been given to local officials. It carries a maximum sentence of six months in prison, a fine, or both.

The Penal Code charges are often used to stifle political dissent of peaceful protestors by criminalizing the use of statements and reports with the intent to induce soldiers to rebel or fail in their duties, or to induce someone to commit an offense against the state or disrupt public tranquility. Each charge carries punishments of up to two years in jail, a fine, or both.

Rights groups have criticized the statute as incompatible with democracy, saying its provisions are vaguely written and could be used arbitrarily to restrict freedom of expression.

Section 25 of the Natural Disaster Management Law, which covers the willful violation of Myanmars current COVID-related restrictions on public gatherings, carries a penalty of imprisonment up to three years and a possible fine.



Police arrest three students protesting against the armed conflict in western Myanmar's Rakhine state, in the state capital Sittwe, Sept. 11, 2020. Credit: RFA They dont want peace

Swam Pyae Tun, a Meiktila University student who went into hiding to avoid arrest, said police apprehended the protesting students, but they overlooked arresting supporters of political parties who also have violated government-imposed COVID-19 restrictions on public gatherings by campaigning in the run-up to Myanmars Nov. 8 elections.

We demanded that they stop the civil war because we want peace, he told RFA. The police didnt arrest thousands of people who participated in the election campaign, but they arrested and charged us under these acts.

The government and the military arrested us for demanding that they stop the civil war, and it means they dont want peace, he added.

Political analyst Maung Maung Soe said the arrests of the students were not appropriate actions for the government to take.

Its not good to arrest students on charges of unlawful assembly, and the government need not take action against them under such strict laws, he said.

RFA could not reach Myanmar government spokesman Zaw Htay for comment.

Monywa Aung Shin, a spokesman for the ruling National League for Democracy (NLD) party, said he believed the students had been arrested for using words or phrases on their posters or in the slogans they shouted that could be considered an offense against the state or a disruption of public tranquility.

Earlier in September, authorities in Rakhine state arrested three students from the Rakhine Student Union for ignoring restrictions on large gatherings amid the coronavirus pandemic by participating in a protest against the Myanmar governments internet service ban.

Reported by Waiyan Moe Myint for RFAs Myanmar Service. Translated by Khet Mar. Written in English by Roseanne Gerin.
A suspected neo-Nazi farmer wanted to 'kill Remainers' with cyanide after being 'frustrated over Brexit,' a court heard today.

Russell Wadge, 58, allegedly stored the poison in his fridge and was found with an arsenal of weapons, including grenades and mines, and instructions on how to make nerve gas.

The lethal haul was found when police raided Wadge's country home and he 'planned to use the chemicals to attack Remainers', Newport Crown Court heard.

Counter-terrorism police raided his home in the quiet village of Trimsaran, Carmarthenshire, in June last year.

A court heard Russell Wadge, 58, stored poison in the fridge next to his ginger beer at his Carmarthenshire country home which was discovered during a raid by anti-terrorism police

He was also allegedly found with an arsenal of weapons, including grenades and mines, and instructions on how to make nerve gas

Wadge was also found to have interests in white supremacy and the English Defence League and owned a book titled How Terrorists Kill, the court heard

Wadge was found with an arsenal of weapons, including grenades and mines, at his home

Wadge was also found to have interests in white supremacy and the English Defence League and owned a book titled How Terrorists Kill, jurors were told.

But he claimed he did not have any extremist views and was just a chemicals enthusiast because 'Explosives are fun.'

Newport Crown Court heard Wadge also has a property in Portugal containing chemicals including hydrogen cyanide.

Prosecutor Tom Little QC told the jury Wadge was not 'misunderstood' but was 'dangerous', adding: 'We say the case against the defendant is clear when you strip away the smoke, the white powder, the phosphorous, and his bluster and fobbing off and attempts to claim he has been misunderstood.

'The world he frequented wasn't just unusual, weird, and wacky, it was ultimately dangerous and unlawful. Something was going on behind closed doors that he doesn't want you to know about.'

Wadge claimed he had notes for nerve gas because he liked a 'challenge' figuring calculations out.

Counter-terrorism police found an arsenal of explosives and large stocks of poison after raiding the country home of Russell Wadge, 58, on Baglan Farm in Trimsaran, Carmarthenshire

Some of the chemical substances found at Russell Wadge's country home in Carmarthenshire

Giving evidence, he said: 'I have an interest in nerve agents - they are toxic which is interesting. Explosives are interesting, because they blow things up. It's interesting.'

Wadge claimed he had not realised that the law changed in 2016 to ban people from owning cyanides.

He said he had his stash for 25 years so 'was not going to use them for a terrorist attack'.

The jury heard internet searches showed significant interest in the white supremacist terror attack in New Zealand in 2019.

When questioned by police, married father Wadge said he did not believe in any extremism and had a 'keen interest' in chemistry.

Defending Paul Hynes QC said Wadge was an 'extraordinary enthusiast'.

He said: 'The prosecution say it's about the B word. That was the best they could do - it's all about Brexit.'

Pictured: A police officer on scene after a man was found with explosives in his home

Officers discovered ingredients to make the 'very dangerous explosive' called triacetone triperoxide TATP - as used in the Manchester Arena bombing.

Boxes of grenades, mines and scale drawings of a KGB weapon to deploy hydrogen cyanide were also discovered.

Wadge allegedly told police: 'If it's dodgy or poison, I love it.'

Wadge denies 28 charges of possessing explosive devices and chemical weapons.

He admitted five charges of unlawful possession of poisonous chemicals without a licence. The trial continues.
(Natural News) Federal health officials said Sept. 16 that the U.S. government is planning to ship out any coronavirus vaccines within 24 hours after approval by regulators. The rapid shipment of any approved vaccine after authorization from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was included in a playbook that authorities released on the same day.

Vaccine makers in the U.S. have already started manufacturing doses in bulk for immediate shipment, should these prove safe during tests and the FDA authorizes their use. As of writing, the vaccine candidates from Moderna, Pfizer and AstraZeneca are currently in Phase 3 testing  the final stage before regulatory approval and distribution.

Regardless of which vaccine is authorized, a limited number of initial doses will be available by the end of October, with more doses to follow by yearend.

Meanwhile, the federal government has asked states to prepare to administer the approved vaccines by Nov. 1. The playbook released by federal health officials indicated three possible scenarios states should prepare for: The vaccine from Moderna gets approved, the FDA authorizes the vaccine from Pfizer, or both get the thumbs-up at the same time.

State and local governments are still required to create plans on how they will receive and distribute coronavirus vaccines and submit these to the federal government within 30 days.

Proposed coronavirus vaccine database can track who got the COVID-19 jab

Lt. Gen. Paul Ostrowski, who handles logistics for the Trump administrations Operation Warp Speed program, said the administration wanted to track people vaccinated against COVID-19 using a database it was setting up. The database would help officials ensure that everyone gets immunized  and get two shots of the vaccine if needed, even though the doses are administered in two different locations.

Coronavirus vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer require two doses, and a vaccine that must be administered twice may not protect a person injected with only one dose.

Ostrowski added that with the database in place, health officials could make sure that a person who got the first coronavirus shot at a public health clinic in Pennsylvania could get the second shot at a Florida pharmacy after a few weeks while vacationing.

Health officials also mentioned that providers would be reimbursed for any expense, including those for administering the vaccines. Meanwhile, Americans will receive the vaccine free of charge, as the Trump administration said in June.

Its not entirely smooth sailing even though a vaccine is approved and distributed

However, some parties have reservations about the plans to roll out vaccines  among them Premier Inc. senior director of advocacy Soumi Saha. Premier Inc. is one of the largest group purchasers for U.S. hospitals and health providers.

According to Saha, the governments plan leaves out critical details  necessary to implement a mass vaccination campaign of this nature successfullyincluding how the proposed database to track COVID-19 vaccinations will work.

She also expressed concern that these gaps in the governments coronavirus vaccine rollout plan will cause problems to the supply chain and confuse people who want to be vaccinated.

Aside from the issues that Saha pointed out, a significant number of people are hesitant to receive coronavirus vaccines over safety concerns. Vaccine trials by AstraZeneca hit a roadblock in September when two of its Phase 3 test subjects developed transverse myelitis after receiving the drug makers experimental coronavirus vaccine. AstraZeneca has denied that the conditions were caused by the COVID-19 vaccine it was developing.

While a vaccine is still being tested, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended wearing a face mask as a more guaranteed protection against the coronavirus. CDC director Dr. Robert Redfield told lawmakers during a Sept. 16 Senate hearing that a mask will still provide protection in case the vaccine fails to generate an immune response.

Based on data collated by the Johns Hopkins University, the U.S. currently has the highest coronavirus caseload with more than 6.9 million cases. A total of 201,930 deaths and 2.6 million recoveries were recorded as of writing.

Vaccines.news has more details about the development of a vaccine as a response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Sources include:

WSJ.com

VOANews.com

TheEpochTimes.com
If you asked Charles Ramcharan, ecologist and associate professor at Laurentian Universitys School of the Environment, if he would ever be out in the field  and his field of choice is a wetland  perched awkwardly with his phone in the air, trying to show his students a lab technique over Zoom, he would certainly say no.

If you told him he would be asking his students to hand in their assignments by social media using a hashtag, well, again, he probably wouldnt believe you.

But hey, thats 2020 for you.

It was also 2020 that brought to the world a series of highly-traumatic videos depicting clear and intentional racism. One in particular features an attack on American science writer and editor  and comic writer and editor  Christian Cooper, who was the victim of a white womans weaponised tears while he was quietly birdwatching in Central Park, and the world could not look away  for once.

A social media campaign started in late May of this year, and though the story itself feels decades old, it was only four months ago that a Black man was simply enjoying his passion for birdwatching when his trauma went viral. In the weeks that followed other Black birders came together for Black Birders Week. Soon after, the hashtag #BlackintheIvory was started by two women sharing their stories of being Black in academia. Like many things about 2020, the revelations took some by surprise.

Less so Charles Ramcharan, who was born in Trinidad. Trinidad is known for its multiculturalism.

Its actually studied by sociologists, Ramcharan said. Its one of the worlds only examples of successful multiculturalism.

But that utopia didnt register with him as a child. Until he moved at the age of 10, not only had he not faced racism, he had no concept of it.

You dont think about the fact that a lot of your friends are Chinese-Trinidadian or Muslim-Trinidadian or white-Trinidadian. I was just a little kid who liked to read books and play in the water.

His parents understood, however, and their experiences in the world left them wanting to protect their son. And so the moment they made the decision to come to Canada, they began to encourage  and insist  that he suppress the parts of him that were instantly recognizable as other.

For instance, his accent.

From the time I was four or five years old, I remember her (his mother) trying to train me to speak without an accent. Even though my white friends did, I wasnt allowed.

When he found his path, there were obstacles in his way  many he may not even have known about. Its not often that racism is direct and confrontational.

For instance, Ramcharan was once speaking to a well-known ecologist from the University of California, Berkeley named Mary Power, who at the time was very popular and highly sought after by students hoping to work in her lab.

But she confessed to him, with deep sadness in her eyes he said, that she couldnt work with any Black students. Not because she didnt want to, quite the contrary: it was that her work took place in the rivers of the Ozark Mountains, and she couldnt guarantee Black students safety.

Once he entered academia, Ramcharan worked as hard as he could to achieve his goals, to reach the heights he saw himself capable of. But he didnt embrace a certain aspect of himself; not until, he said, it was safe.

He wanted to be known for his work, not for being of colour. He did not want to be a poster boy, nor have his roots used as a way to keep him stuck on the ground. He regrets it.

I was there, I had the opportunity earlier on to be a role model for other coloured people in sciences, (but) I was so busy just trying to make a career that it didnt occur to me how much it would matter.

Turns out, having other people of colour as role models in academia is important. Really important. Ramcharan became an academic who championed other people of colour in academia. Without role models to demonstrate that a career in academia is possible, many people of colour never even conceive of that path.

But a lack of role models isnt the only barrier for people of colour who want to pursue a career in academia.

A study of participation rates in post-secondary education showed, not surprisingly, that cost is a factor. Youth from families whose income was in the bottom third of the income distribution (annual incomes of less than $50,000) were less likely to attend college or university compared to youth from families with higher annual incomes (12.8-per-cent gap).

But if your parents did not attend post-secondary school, there is a 19.8-per-cent gap between you and the youth whose parents were able pursue higher education. In fact, the study states that this factor has more influence than any of the other factors.

There is a significant issue for Indigenous youth, with the study noting they are less likely to be able to receive a post-secondary education compared to non-Aboriginal youth (24.3 percentage-point gap).

But here is where a surprise comes in.

The study notes first-and second-generation children of immigrants had higher rates of participation in post-secondary education than non-immigrants (86.6 and 83.0 per cent respectively vs. 71.2 per cent).

So why is it then the numbers for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Colour) beyond that first participation show that while most achieve their degree, not many go beyond that?

A report by the Canadian Association of University Teachers based on the 2016 census data showed a troubling lack of people of colour.

Not only that, but academia is not the same place it once was; its a battle between research and teaching. Once, much of the cost of university was covered by the government, with only a small portion paid in tuition. Now, almost all is covered by tuition.

The esteemed, and often white, researchers at universities are retiring, and since universities themselves are moving away from research in search of more income-creating classes, the positions that are available are not ones that are sustainable.

There are only so many slots available, said Ramcharan, So, when those people retire, most often, who theyre being replaced with at universities is teachers. Because the universities have realized that research is not a big moneymaker. Its kind of a loss leader, especially in smaller schools.

These teacher/lecturers are sessional, contract and have significantly lower wages than their counterparts like Ramcharan. Their job security is nil, and tenure a faraway dream. If you are trying to make your way in the world  or even just to eat and have a bed  a choice to leave academia for a position that rewards your work seems quite logical.

It also provides a possible window into why young BIPOC have such a hard time finding someone who works at a university, looks like them, and understands their culture.

In addition to that, there is the quality of support required. Of course families will do whatever they can for their childrens benefit, but what happens when the childs education surpasses their own? Or doubles it?

This leads to an obstacle that Ramcharan himself faced: its hard to go home again. For many, it is not only difficult to find common ground  I felt like I couldnt even have a conversation with my dad, Ramcharan said  but also a phenomenon that has reared its head recently: no one likes a smarty pants.

Thats a simplistic way of putting it, but so many allow their jealousy and resentment of anothers opportunities or achievements to build, isolating them to defend their own pride.

But Ramcharan has more than a little hope, especially for Laurentian University. While he admits its needs to improve many areas, he believes they are more than up to the challenge.

Its a broken bike, he said, But its rideable, and its worth riding.

To remedy the systemic racism faced by people of colour within academia will take a complex web of well-identified issues and solutions.

To achieve this, Ramcharan believes one should start at the beginning. University should be marketed as something people can do on their own terms, as a longer learning process rather than a four year Band-Aid to be ripped off. And, perhaps more than anything, support is needed at the ground level.

I really think the universities need to be doing more to nurture and engage these families, said Ramcharan. We have a one-size fits all type of recruiting, and recruiting is more than just getting the students in; it should be a support system, but we have a one-size fits all for that too.

We need to very much and very quickly to humanize people, and support them.
 Flash

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday called for greater ambition to reverse biodiversity loss.

Biodiversity and ecosystems are essential for human progress and prosperity. They are central to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and implementing the Paris Agreement on climate change, he told the UN Biodiversity Summit.

Yet, despite repeated commitments, efforts have not been sufficient to meet any of the global biodiversity targets set for 2020. Much greater ambition is needed -- not just from governments, but from all actors in society, he said.

Degradation of nature is not purely an environmental issue. It spans economics, health, social justice and human rights, he warned. "Neglecting our precious resources can exacerbate geopolitical tensions and conflicts."

Yet, too often environmental health is overlooked or downplayed. The UN Biodiversity Summit provides an opportunity to show the world that there is another way. Humanity has to change course and transform its relationship with the natural world, he said.

"By living in harmony with nature, we can avert the worst impacts of climate change and recharge biodiversity for the benefit of people and the planet," said the UN chief.

Guterres saw three priorities for conserving and sustainably managing biodiversity.

First, nature-based solutions must be embedded in COVID-19 recovery and wider development plans.

Preserving the world's biodiversity can yield the jobs and economic growth that are urgently needed today. The World Economic Forum signals that emerging business opportunities across nature could create 191 million jobs by 2030. Africa's Great Green Wall alone has created 335,000 jobs, he said.

"Nature-based solutions are also vital tools in our fight to solve the climate crisis. Forests, oceans and intact ecosystems are effective carbon sinks. Healthy wetlands mitigate flooding. We have natural solutions at our fingertips to protect us from natural disasters, job loss and economic fallout. Let us use them," said Guterres.

Second, economic systems and financial markets must account for and invest in nature.

Nature's resources still do not figure in countries' calculations of wealth. The current system is weighted toward destruction, not preservation, he said.

The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development estimates the annual global funding needed for nature at between 300 billion and 400 billion U.S. dollars -- less than current levels of harmful subsidies for agriculture, mining and other destructive industries, Guterres noted.

Investing in nature will protect biodiversity and improve climate action, human health, and food security. And governments need to include biodiversity as a criterion in financial decision-making, he said.

Third, there is a need to secure the most ambitious policies and targets that protect biodiversity and leave no one behind.

The Convention on Biological Diversity estimates that services from ecosystems make up 50 to 90 percent of the livelihoods of poor rural and forest-dwelling households. Nature offers business opportunities to poor communities, from sustainable farming to ecotourism or subsistence fishing. All of them depend on conserving biodiversity and using it sustainably.

Most indigenous peoples, in particular, depend on healthy ecosystems that can provide the economic and financial services they need to preserve their cultures and livelihoods, he said.

Guterres said humanity, instead of waging war on nature, needs to rebuild its relationship with it.

More than 60 percent of the world's coral reefs are endangered due to overfishing, destructive practices and climate change. Wildlife populations are plummeting because of overconsumption, human population growth and intensive agriculture. And the rate of species extinction is accelerating, with some 1 million species currently threatened or endangered, he said.

"Deforestation, climate change and the conversion of wilderness for human food production are destroying Earth's web of life. We are part of that fragile web, and we need it to be healthy so we and future generations may thrive."

One consequence of the imbalance with nature is the emergence of deadly diseases such as HIV/AIDS, Ebola, and now COVID-19, against which mankind has little or no defense. Sixty percent of all known diseases and 75 percent of new infectious diseases are zoonotic, passing from animals to humans, demonstrating the intimate interconnection between the health of our planet and our own, he said.

Nations have failed with regard to biodiversity in the last decade, he said. But nature is resilient and it can recover if humankind eases its relentless assault. The UN Biodiversity Summit presents a unique opportunity for world leaders to make the decisions that will shape the shared future of humankind, he said.

Guterres stressed the need to secure an ambitious post-2020 biodiversity framework, one that will help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals; one that sets out concrete and measurable targets and includes means of implementation, particularly finance and monitoring mechanisms; one that mobilizes a full and effective partnership across state and societies, with businesses, youth, women, indigenous peoples and local communities.

"We need a healthy planet for our societies to thrive and our economies to rebuild," he said.
TORONTO, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- CI Financial Corp. ("CI") (TSX: CIX), and d1g1t Inc., the first provider of an enterprise wealth management platform powered by institutional-grade analytics and risk management tools, today announced the significant expansion of the strategic alliance between the two firms.

Under the terms of the expanded strategic partnership, d1g1t Inc.'s enterprise wealth management platform will be used to help CI Financial, a global asset and wealth management firm, to modernize its technology platforms and further develop advanced discretionary capabilities within its Assante Wealth Management business and correspondent network services.

The expanded partnership is also expected to allow CI Financial to more easily integrate its acquired U.S.-based registered investment adviser (RIA) firms, which will be able to seamlessly plug into d1g1t's comprehensive technology platform. This year, CI has acquired RIA firms that manage US$11 billion in client assets (as of August 31, 2020), emerging as one of the top consolidators of independent wealth management businesses in the U.S. market.

"The quality of d1g1t's leadership team, the strength of its offerings and the singularity of its approach is a combination that none of its competitors within the industry can meet, so expanding our relationship with them was an easy decision," said Darie Urbanky, President and Chief Operating Officer of CI. "Having the proper technology framework in place is crucial not only to serving our existing businesses but also to expanding our presence internationally, especially in the U.S. wealth management space."

Mr. Urbanky continued, "In today's competitive landscape, it isn't enough to bring financial capital to the table when making acquisitions. It's also imperative to have technology that not only streamlines the implementation process but elevates the experience for advisors and their clients. The expansion of our strategic partnership with d1g1t augments our capabilities to do all those things for the firms we acquire."

The expansion of the strategic relationship between CI Financial and d1g1t, Inc. encompasses the following:

Assante Wealth Management, one of Canada's largest providers of wealth management solutions to individuals, families and business owners with approximately $46 billion in assets (as at August 31, 2020 ), will deliver access to a proprietary d1g1t trading module that provides enhanced discretionary capabilities within separately managed accounts (SMAs) and unified managed accounts (UMAs) for the firm's 900 financial advisors.

largest providers of wealth management solutions to individuals, families and business owners with approximately in assets (as at ), will deliver access to a proprietary d1g1t trading module that provides enhanced discretionary capabilities within separately managed accounts (SMAs) and unified managed accounts (UMAs) for the firm's 900 financial advisors. CI Investment Services*, a broker-dealer that provides a wide range of innovative brokerage and trading solutions to diverse clients that include portfolio managers, introducing brokers and institutional investors, will offer access for its clients to the full spectrum of the d1g1t technology platform.

"Industry-leading technology is a critical business requirement and essential to both the client and advisor experience," said Sean Etherington, Assante President. "The capabilities of the d1g1t platform will elevate our discretionary platform, broaden our recruiting capability, support continued growth in the high-net-worth segment and help fulfill our objective of being the leading wealth manager in every market segment in which we compete."

Dr. Dan Rosen, co-founder and CEO of d1g1t, Inc., said, "We are excited to build on our strategic relationship with CI to deliver best-in-class technology tools and financial engineering expertise. We look forward to both supporting the robust global expansion plans of CI Financial, while elevating the service experience for the company's affiliated professionals and their clients. The expansion of our partnership with CI not only validates the unique solutions we provide, but underscores our ability to serve large, diversified financial businesses with ambitious growth plans, across North America, and globally."

The announcement substantially builds out on the strategic partnership created last year, when CI Financial agreed to deploy the d1g1t's technology platform across the firm's advisory businesses and acquired a minority equity stake in d1g1t, Inc.

*CI Investment Services is a registered business name of BBS Securities Inc.

About CI Financial Corp.

CI Financial Corp. (TSX: CIX) is an independent company offering global asset management and wealth management advisory services. CI held approximately $189 billion in total assets as of August 31, 2020. CI's primary asset management businesses are CI Investments Inc. and GSFM Pty Ltd., and it operates in wealth management through Assante Wealth Management (Canada) Ltd., CI Private Counsel LP, CI Direct Investing (WealthBar Financial Services Inc.), CI Investment Services (BBS Securities Inc.), Balasa Dinverno Foltz LLC, The Cabana Group, LLC, Congress Wealth Management, One Capital Management, LLC and Surevest LLC. Further information is available at www.cifinancial.com.

About d1g1t Inc.

d1g1t is the industry's first enterprise wealth management platform powered by institutional-grade analytics and risk management tools that allows firms to elevate the quality of their advice and demonstrate its value to clients. Through a single integrated solution that covers the entire advisory lifecycle, d1g1t provides wealth management firms with a whole new set of capabilities they've never had before. Headquartered in Toronto, the company was founded and is led by an experienced financial technology team who have developed leading enterprise portfolio systems for many of the world's banks, institutional asset managers, hedge funds and regulators. Visit d1g1t.com to learn more and also follow on LinkedIn.

d1g1t, Inc. Media Contacts

Michael Dugan or Joseph Kuo

Haven Tower Group LLC

424 317 4852 or 424 317 4851

[email protected] or [email protected]

CI Financial Media Contacts

Murray Oxby

Vice-President, Corporate Communications

416-681-3254

[email protected]

All financial amounts in Canadian dollars unless otherwise specified.

This press release contains forward-looking statements concerning anticipated future events, results, circumstances, performance or expectations with respect to CI Financial Corp. ("CI") and its products and services, including its business operations, strategy and financial performance and condition. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as "believe", "expect", "foresee", "forecast", "anticipate", "intend", "estimate", "goal", "plan" and "project" and similar references to future periods, or conditional verbs such as "will", "may", "should", "could" or "would". These statements are not historical facts but instead represent management beliefs regarding future events, many of which by their nature are inherently uncertain and beyond management's control. Although management believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements involve risks and uncertainties. The material factors and assumptions applied in reaching the conclusions contained in these forward-looking statements include that the investment fund industry will remain stable and that interest rates will remain relatively stable. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations include, among other things, general economic and market conditions, including interest and foreign exchange rates, global financial markets, changes in government regulations or in tax laws, industry competition, technological developments and other factors described or discussed in CI's disclosure materials filed with applicable securities regulatory authorities from time to time. The foregoing list is not exhaustive, and the reader is cautioned to consider these and other factors carefully and not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Other than as specifically required by applicable law, CI undertakes no obligation to update or alter any forward-looking statement after the date on which it is made, whether to reflect new information, future events or otherwise.

SOURCE d1g1t
Ontarios plan to get children back to school continues to prove challenging in Brampton and Mississauga as cases of COVID-19 continue to appear.

In the Region of Peel the trouble started before schools even opened their doors. At the tail-end of August, the first school case was reported by a staff member returning to Ross Drive Public School in preparation for the new year.

In the weeks that followed, things have not improved.

New cases in Peel schools are being declared on a daily basis. As students have returned to their classmates, both high schools and elementary schools in Mississauga and Brampton have been heavily impacted by new cases of COVID-19. As recently as last week, roughly 40 percent of all Ontario schools with cases were located in one of Peels two major cities.

Now, as cases continue to swarm into buildings run by Peel District School Board (PDSB) and Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board (DPCDSB), classrooms have begun to close. In total, five classrooms are shuttered, three for PDSB and two for DPCDSB.

Carberry Public School (Brampton), St. Matthew Elementary School (Mississauga) and Ellwood Memorial Public School (Caledon) have reported one case each and one closed classroom. Birchbank Public School (Brampton) has reported two cases and one classroom has been closed, while Lester B. Pearson Catholic Elementary School in Brampton has three cases and one classroom shut down.

According to data from DPCDSB and PDSB, there are 71 schools in the region with cases of COVID-19 reported as of 11 a.m. on September 30. Roughly 17 percent of schools in Peel have reported at least one case, with several schools reporting two or more.

The provinces central dashboard for reporting school cases has lagged consistently behind the numbers provided by local school boards. Despite being touted by the Ministry of Education as a key resource to keep parents informed, the websites figures have been woefully outdated. As of 10:30 a.m. on September 29 (it has not been updated for September 30), it is reporting 23 schools in Brampton and 16 in Mississauga with cases.

Its figures show a total of 249 Ontario schools with cases, 5.2 percent of the provinces total.

On Monday, Education Minister Stephen Lecce brought together the heads of Ontarios school boards to discuss measures to keep COVID-19 out of classrooms. A second wave of the novel coronavirus is breaking across the province, threatening to make the situation worse in local schools and bring attempts to keep children in class to a halt. Provincial modelling released Wednesday shows daily case counts could top 1,000 as early as October.

(I) brought together school board chairs along with Dr. Huyer to discuss our continued action to implement preventative measures in schools to keep students and staff safe, Lecce tweeted.

Experts have repeatedly linked the presence of COVID-19 in the community with the rate at which it will appear in schools. Bramptons status as an Ontario hot-spot has seen it recording a particularly high number of cases in its schools as they leak in from home and community transition.

Ever increasing occurrences of the virus in Peel suggest things will continue to be difficult for students doing in-class learning in the regions schools.

Last weekend saw daily case counts at rates not seen since April and May, when the first wave of the pandemic was at its peak. On September 25, Peel recorded 144 new cases, with 112 the next day. Sunday, September 27, saw 81 new cases in Brampton, Caledon and Mississauga.

So far, Peel Public Health has not declared any outbreaks at schools in the region. According to provincial criteria, an outbreak in a school is defined as two or more lab-confirmed COVID-19 cases in students and/or staff in a school with an epidemiological link, within a 14-day period, where at least one case could have reasonably acquired their infection in the school (including transportation and before or after school care).

Similarly, classroom closures are the responsibility of the local public health unit. When a case is declared in a school, Peel Public Health contact tracers work to understand if it was acquired outside of a school setting and determine just how likely it is that the student or teacher has passed the virus on.

In its notes to school boards and local public health units, the Ministry of Education has been clear its preference is for closing classrooms instead of schools. An emphasis on cohorting systems in high school and individual classes in elementary has been designed to limit how many people students interact with, so small groups of students can be sent home to isolate instead of entire schools.

How long it will be until Peel Public Health is forced to declare an outbreak or take more drastic measures remains to be seen.

Email: isaac.callan@thepointer.com

Twitter: @isaaccallan

Tel: 647 561-4879

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New Delhi: The Lucknow bench of Allahabad High Court on Thursday (October 1) took suo motu cognizance of the Hathras incident, and issued summons to top state government officials including ACS Home, DGP, ADG Law & Order besides Hathras DM and SP by 12th October.

Upset with the alleged gang-rape and murder of a 19-year-old woman in Hathras district of Uttar Pradesh and her forcible cremation subsequently, the Lucknow bench of justices Rajan Roy and Jaspreet Singh issued summons to the Uttar Pradesh additional chief secretary, director-general of police, and additional director general of police, asking them to be present before the court on October 12 explain the case.

Taking suo moto cognisance of the matter, the bench also ordered the Hathras district magistrate and senior superintendent of police to appear before it, asking all officials to come prepared with all the relevant material and documents to apprise the court of their versions of the incident.

Live TV

The bench also asked the late teen's parents to come to the court to apprise it of their version of the incident and ordered the Hathras district administration to arrange for their travel to the court.

The court, which appeared especially upset over the police cremating the teen's body overnight allegedly forcibly in Hathras without her parent's consent, asked officials to apprise the bench of the latest status of the probe into the alleged gang-rape and murder case.
The Loudoun County NAACP also weighed in on the case, saying Johnsons mental health struggles should have been given more consideration in sentencing. Ungvarsky and the NAACP also raised concerns that an all-White jury convicted Johnson, who is Black. A potential Black juror was struck from the jury pool by prosecutors, but a judge has concluded it was not for racial reasons.
Users of ShareChat and its short video platform Moj can have access to library of Times Music and leading Punjabi Music catalog Speed Records to create content on the two platforms, the home-grown social media venture said on Thursday.

The move is in line with ShareChat's strategy to expand its music library by collaborating with the leading music label companies in India, and across the globe.

"Our partnership with Times Music is one such step to bolster our music library and give wings to our creator's creativity," Berges Malu, Director, ShareChat, said in a statement.

Times Music is home to a music library that represents Bollywood, spiritual, indie, pop, rock and other non-film music genres.

Speed Records, which boasts of largest market share in Punjabi music, has some of the top Punjabi hits like "Lamberghini" and "Mann Bharrya", among others.

ShareChat last month announced music licensing deal with Saregama.

Currently, ShareChat and Moj together have a huge base of over 240 million monthly active users (MAUs).

The social media venture late last month announced closure of a new funding round of $40 million.
DENVER  A train that takes skiers and snowboarders from downtown Denver to Winter Park Resort wont run this season because of the coronavirus pandemic, Amtrak and resort officials said Wednesday.

Amtrak and Winter Park Resort evaluated seating options on the Winter Park Express and agreed that with social distancing requirements, it was not possible to operate the train successfully this season, the partners said in a joint statement.

The service, which typically runs on weekends from January through March, wont return until 2022. Amtrak and resort officials said that in the meantime they would explore ways to improve the experience.

The trains hiatus this season is another blow to Colorados ski industry, which is trying to figure out how to safely reopen resorts this winter amid the pandemic. Resorts in Colorado were shut down in mid-March just as spring break was ramping up.

For decades, the train chugged into the Rocky Mountains west from Denver, snaking through 29 tunnels and crossing the Continental Divide before delivering eager skiers to the base of the resort at an elevation of 9,000 feet (2,743 meters). Insurance woes doomed the service in 2009, but  with some help from Amtrak  it was resurrected in 2017.

Powered by diesel-electric engines, the train runs from Denvers historic Union Station about 60 miles (96 kilometers) and 3,700 vertical feet (1,128 vertical meters) into Colorados snow-swept mountains. It drops passengers off about 100 yards (91 meters) from the lifts after passing through the 6.2-mile (10-kilometer) Moffat Tunnel, which was finished in 1928 and is credited with opening Denver up to western commerce.

The Winter Park Express features Amtraks Superliner double-decker cars, which are designed for longer distances and are roomier than normal passenger train cars.

The train, which shares tracks with Amtraks California Zephyr that runs between Chicago and San Francisco, has been a draw since it started running in 1940, the same year the ski resort opened. After the service was discontinued for a few years during World War II, it ran almost every ski season from 1947 until 2009, when billionaire investor and then-owner Philip Anschutz shut it down because it became too expensive to run when insurance rates went up.
President Donald Trump is planning to cut refugee admissions by 3,000 to 15,000 in 2021, submitting his proposal to Congress less than an hour before the deadline for the fiscal years figure was to expire, the administration announced late Wednesday.

The 40-year-old resettlement program has been dwindling under his administration and the 2021 figure will continue to shrink it. The 2021 figure is a 16% reduction over 2020s admissions.

The 1980 Refugee Act requires presidents to issue their determination by Oct. 1 for the next fiscal year. The president also must consult with Congress before making his determination, though ultimately it is up to him.

Trump froze refugee admissions in March amid the coronavirus pandemic, citing a need to protect American jobs as fallout from the coronavirus crashed the economy.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the administration is committed to the countrys history of leading the world in providing a safe place for refugees.

We continue to be the single greatest contributor to the relief of humanitarian crisis all around the world, and we will continue to do so, Pompeo told reporters in Rome on the sidelines of a conference on religious freedom organized by the U.S. Embassy. Certainly so long as President Trump is in office, I can promise you this administration is deeply committed to that.

But advocates say the governments actions do not show that. Since taking office, Trump has slashed the number of refugees allowed into the country by more than 80%, reflecting his broader efforts to drastically reduce both legal and illegal immigration.

The U.S. allowed in just over 10,800 refugees  a little more than half of the 18,000 cap set by Trump for 2020  before the State Department suspended the program because of the coronavirus.

The 18,000 cap was already the lowest in the history of the program. In addition, the State Department announced last week that it would no longer provide some statistical information on refugee resettlement, sparking more concerns.

Advocates say the Trump administration is dismantling a program that has long enjoyed bipartisan support and has been considered a model for protecting the worlds most vulnerable people.

Scores of resettlement offices have closed because of the drop in federal funding, which is tied to the number of refugees placed in the U.S.

And the damage is reverberating beyond American borders as other countries close their doors to refugees as well.

Were talking about tens of millions of desperate families with no place to go and having no hope for protection in the near term, said Krish Vignarajah, president of the Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, a federally funded agency charged with resettling refugees in the United States.

Bisrat Sibhatu, an Eritrean refugee, does not want to think about the possibility of another year passing without reuniting with his wife.

For the past 2 1/2 years, he has called the caseworker who helped him resettle in Milwaukee every two weeks to inquire about the status of his wifes refugee case.

The answer is always the same  nothing to report.

My wife is always asking me: Is there news? said Sibhatu, who talks to her daily over a messaging app. Its very tough. How would you feel if you were separated from your husband? Its not easy. I dont know what to say to her.

He said the couple fled Eritreas authoritarian government and went to neighboring Ethiopia, which hosts more than 170,000 Eritrean refugees and asylum-seekers. Between 2017 and 2019, his wife, Ruta, was interviewed, vetted and approved to be admitted to the United States as a refugee. Then everything came to a halt.

Sibhatu, who works as a machine operator at a spa factory, sends her about $500 every month to cover her living expenses in Ethiopia.

I worry about her, about her life, Sibhatu said, noting Ethiopias spiraling violence and the pandemic. But there is nothing we can do.

He hopes his wife will be among the refugees who make it to the United States in 2021.
I was watching Law and Order last night, which is what I have been doing every night since the pandemic began in March. Due to the magic of cable, streaming, and old fashioned network TV, I can have those ripped from the headlines episodes running on a loop.

Last nights episode was from 1999, and I was only paying casual attention because my faucet was leaking and I was trying to figure out how to stop the incessant drip. But then one of the characters said his Black former crack-addict client deserved to get her toddler son back from the white adoptive parents who had been raising him for the last three years, and I forgot about the leak. The phrase ripped from the headlines became plus ca change, as I pondered how fascinating it was that a controversy from two decades ago was still playing itself out in the present.

Among the other things that her opponents have questioned is the fact that Amy Coney Barrett has committed the crime of adopting two Black children. To be more specific, since details matter, she has adopted two children from Haiti. Those children have now become the focus of scrutiny as the left beings what I call the Kavanaughzation of the Supreme Court nominee. I also call it the Palinization, but we will get to that in a minute.

Exactly two years ago, Senate Democrats and their allies engaged in one of the most despicable displays of character assassination since Clarence Thomas was subject to that high-tech lynching almost 30 years ago. To this day there are people, including an aspiring vice president, who insist that Justice Brett Kavanaugh is a serial abuser, orgy master and privileged prep boy with the punchable face (oh sorry, that was Nick Sandmann. Its hard to keep track of the hated privileged white males in the TDS era). And yet, he was confirmed because sticks and stones may break our bones, but if you have the votes, suck it up. Legal principle, you know.

Its not hard to see the stars aligning for exactly the same type of extravaganza again, since Amy Coney Barrett, now awarded an acronym like RBG, is anathema to the left. I posted a few positive things about her on my Facebook page and when friends reposted that on their own pages, women I had no idea existed went ballistic. It was like some twisted Faberge Organics Shampoo commercial (And I told two friends, and she told two friends, and those two friends took a stroke, and so on). There is no question that ACB is controversial, because she is one of the most purely and unapologetically conservative female voices in a position of authority. That alone has angered the pink hat crowd, and there is no surprise there. Hardly worth an oped.

But this has gone beyond mere disagreement with her policy positions. Critiquing her likely vote overturning Roe v. Wade and against the Affordable Care Act is absolutely appropriate and even necessary in order to fully respect the principle of advise and consent. But as we saw with Kavanaugh, it hasnt stopped there.

The nominee has become the target of attacks on her faith. Conservative Catholics are ready for that, because were familiar with the playbook. Start with the Know Nothing Chapter, read on through the Al Smith Chapter, get a yellow highlighter for the Kennedy Chapter and hum a few bars of The dogma lives loudly in us.

But now we get to that classic, go-after-the-mothering part of the process, and throw in a little racism. The Palinization part is expected, since we all know what the tolerant liberal females and their male cohorts did to John McCains running mate. Several folks who should have known better, including people affiliated with the august New York Times, suggested that Sarah Palins youngest son Trig was not really her child. They winked and nodded and some even came out and accused Palin of pretending to give birth to a baby that was actually her grandson, Bristols firstborn.

In the annals of character assassination, its up there with the pubic hair on the Pepsi can, as Justice Thomas would surely agree. But it was typical of the way that the left treats conservative women. Actually, let me be blunt: Its exactly the way the left treats women who actively oppose abortion. It is the classic, predictable and increasingly impotent methodology used to ridicule, delegitimize and neutralize pro-life females. Go after their mothering.

And now, with Amy Coney Barrett, it has come full circle. We are smack dab in the middle of the Black Lives Matter moment, so obviously race will be an issue no matter what is said or done. But this is racism mixed in with sexism, and that is a potent combination.

Coney Barrett and her husband adopted two young children from Haiti, a country with which I am intimately familiar having handled a number of immigration cases for Haitian nationals. One of my Haitian clients was a journalist who had written columns condemning Papa Doc Duvalier, the Haitian dictator in the 1970s. He was forced to flee. Haiti has suffered from political strife, poverty and untold natural disaster. Adopting a child, let alone two, from that sort of maelstrom is a heroic act. I am sure that the judge and her husband would say that they were the ones who were rescued, such is the profound nature of their faith, but in actual fact, they saved those children from early death.

But because the judge is white, and the children are Black, the narrative has twisted to fit the BLM narrative. There is the suggestion that Black children should only be adopted by Black parents so that they can be given full access to the richness of their heritage. This is objectionable, and to my mind, a form of segregation. The theory: Better to be an authentic orphan in poverty than a beloved child raised by people of the wrong color.

That sort of thinking sets us back decades, even centuries. I would think that the women who are wailing about the possible loss of abortion rights would understand that type of argument, given that theyve donned their red robes and warned about the return of the Handmaids Gilead where they will be forced into the 1960 back alleys for their abortions.

So by this reckoning, Amy Coney Barrett hates women, is a religious zealot, and also exploits little Black children by ripping them from their roots and heritage. This is the insanity that is playing out on the left, a malady that took hold well before the election of 2016 and is becoming, with each passing day, more deadly. A conservative woman cannot be a person of faith, a loving and color blind mother, and a great jurist in the alternative universe that is claiming at least as many lives as COVID 19.

And that is a tragedy for our times.

Christine Flowers is an attorney and a resident of Delaware County. Her column usually appears Sunday. Email her at cflowers1961@gmail.com.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin held a meeting on Wednesday with Virginia Gamba, the special representative of the UN secretary general for children and armed conflict, and the sides discussed cooperation on the evacuation of children from hot spots and conflict zones, the Russian Foreign Ministry said

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 01st October, 2020) Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin held a meeting on Wednesday with Virginia Gamba, the special representative of the UN secretary general for children and armed conflict, and the sides discussed cooperation on the evacuation of children from hot spots and conflict zones, the Russian Foreign Ministry said.

"The sides exchanged views on bilateral cooperation in the field of evacuation of children from hot spots, prevention of serious violations against children by sides to armed conflicts in various regions of the world, and the need to intensify efforts to reintegrate juvenile victims of conflicts," the statement said.

The sides also outlined plans to further expand the cooperation in the field of implementation of the UN Security Council profile resolutions.

In the summer of 2017, Russia has launched a campaign to identify the location and evacuate Russian children who were brought by parents to war zones Iraq and Syria. In total, 197 children have already been returned to Russia from the conflict zones in the middle East  122 from Iraq and 75 from Syria.
Senate Republicans Reject Schumer Bill Protecting Obamacare

Senate Republicans rejected a bill from Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) that would have blocked the Department of Justice from advocating the dismantling of the Affordable Care Act, known as Obamacare, in the midst of a Supreme Court nomination fight.

Senators voted 51-43 on Thursday, falling short of the 60-vote threshold required to advance the bill.

You know were fighting this Supreme Court nomination with the tools that we have. McConnell has limited those tools when he so defiled the Senate and changed all the rulesbut I managed to go on the floor when there was no Republican there, ask to put on the floor a proposal that said, we will spend no money to fight to repeal the ACA, Schumer said in an interview this week.

Six GOP senators who voted for the legislation included Sens. Susan Collins (Maine), Joni Ernst (Iowa), Cory Gardner (Col.), Martha McSally (Ariz.), Lisa Murkowski (Alaska), and Dan Sullivan (Alaska).

Its directly related to, we think, the critical issue both in the election and the Supreme Court nomination, which is the Republican efforts to destroy health care in a pandemic, Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.) told reporters Wednesday.

Republican leaders later said they support the pre-existing condition mandate.

Theres no Republican I know of that isnt for protecting people worn pre-existing conditions.  The more our members have something that they can talk about that they are for I think the better it is in terms of trying to defend themselves against the attacks, said Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) about the vote.
A millionaire businessmen whose 'rough sex' excuse for why he killed his girlfriend led to the legal defence being banned is set to be freed from jail within days.

John Broadhurst is set to be released in early October - less than halfway through his sentence.

The killer was sentenced to three years and eight months in December 2018 over the death of Natalie Connolly.

The 26-year-old victim was left to die in a pool of blood at the bottom of a flight of stairs at their home in Kenrose Mill, Staffordshire, two years earlier.

Broadhurst was jailed for three years and eight months after admitting manslaughter by gross negligence, but is set to walk free from jail within days

Natalie Connolly, 26, (pictured left) was left to die in a pool of blood at the bottom of a flight of stairs in the home she shared with John Broadhurst (pictured right)

If he is freed as expected, he will have served just 22 months of the sentence.

Two separate sources confirmed to the Birmingham Mail they had been told multi-millionaire John Broadhurst would be released in early October.

Birmingham Crown Court heard in December 2018 how Miss Connolly suffered more than 40 injuries, including a 'blow-out' fracture to her left eye, bruising and internal injuries.

During the trial the prosecution argued the injuries to her eye were consistent with 'punch or toe-poke kicks'.

Mother-of-one Miss Connolly had also suffered horrific internal injuries which it was claimed were inflicted during a grisly sex game involving a bottle of 1001 Carpet Cleaner.

Broadhurst admitted leaving Miss Connolly unsupervised and failing to contact the emergency services in circumstances where 'a risk of death as a result of her condition would have been obvious'.

He admitted a charge of manslaughter by gross negligence as he stood trial accused of murder and causing grievous bodily harm.

Miss Connolly's death attracted national attention and led to the 'rough sex defence', which claims that the victim consented to the injuries which caused their death, being banned

Miss Connolly was discovered in a pool of blood in the couple's 600,000 home in Kinver, Staffordshire after an S&M sex session (pictured)

Broadhurst claimed he had only hurt her 'within the boundaries of her masochistic desires'.

He was cleared of murder on the direction of the judge following legal submissions.

What is the 'rough sex defence' and how has it changed? The so-called 'rough sex defence', also known as the '50 shades of grey' defence, was seen in UK courts in cases of sexual violence. It was used in cases that end in murder or serious harm, to explain why the violence occurred. The defence was highlighted in the case of of 21-year-old Essex backpacker Grace Millane in New Zealand. Her killer was eventually sentenced to life in prison but Louise Perry, who co-runs We Can't Consent To This, a group that raises awareness of the 'rough sex' defence, said sentencing is often reduced. An amendment to the Domestic Abuse Bill has prevented 'consensual rough sex' from being a defence to harming or killing a victim. MPs voted in favour of the bill on July 6 2020 in the Commons - its final legislative hurdle. The new bill now rules out 'consent for sexual gratification' as a defence for causing a person any serious harm. It now now prevents 'consensual rough sex' from being a defence to harming or killing a victim. The bill still needs to be debated in the House of Lords later this year, where it is widely expected to pass. Advertisement

At the time, Broadhurst's sentence was blasted as 'unduly lenient' by prominent figures, including Labour MP Harriet Harman.

Campaigners also held up Miss Connolly's death as an example of why the 'rough sex' defence should be banned.

The tragedy led to a change in the law with the scrapping of the so-called 'rough sex defence' - the claim the victim consented to injuries which caused their death.

Wyre Forest MP, Mark Garnier, together with Labour MP Harriet Harman, championed the change.

The Government has since amended its Domestic Abuse Bill, which now prevents 'consensual rough sex' from being a defence to harming or killing a victim.

Campaigners also supported Miss Connolly's family in trying to extend Broadhurst's sentence, but it has now emerged that he will soon go free.

Mr Garnier - who was Miss Connolly's MP before she moved in with Broadhurst - previously said: 'Natalie's death is the stuff of nightmares.

'What we hope to achieve from it is a way to make sure that people take more responsibility for their actions, and that killers get the right sentences, whilst victims get justice.

'The case of my constituent Natalie Connolly, and the woeful under performance of the system with regards her killer John Broadhurst, highlighted a rising menace of justice game-playing by killers and abusers.'

He added: 'There is no justice in this. There never has been for Natalie.

'She was deprived of her life and of her reputation by this man and he got 18 months for it.

'Natalie Connolly was not someone who was into rough sex.

'This was Broadhurst using it.

'She was a just a fairly normal, fun-loving mother who, like most people, wanted a nice, happy relationship with someone she loved.'

At the time of Broadhurst's sentencing, Miss Connolly's relatives said: 'Natalie was a loving and caring daughter, granddaughter, and sister, but above all she was a loving mother to her 10-year old daughter, who now has to grow up without her Mummy by her side.

'She will to have to live a life sentence without her Mummy. Natalie was, and still is at the centre of our world, and we will all try to rebuild our lives knowing we will no longer have the beauty, the joy and the happiness of having Natalie by our side.'
The former president of a union for government employees at the New Orleans airport faces prison time and hefty fines for stealing $15,000 by forging union checks, authorities said Wednesday.

Matthew Cuomo, 55, of Kansas City, Missouri, pleaded guilty to forgery before U.S. District Judge Lance Africk, federal prosecutors said. He was accused of stealing money from American Federation of Government Employees Local 1047, based at Louis Armstrong International Airport. The local claims about 200 members who work for the Transportation Security Administration and other agencies at several Louisiana and Mississippi airports.

A 2017 audit showed money was missing from the union's bank account. Authorities later found out that Cuomo had taken the tens of thousands of dollars and used it for personal expenses. He forged about 50 checks by signing off as the union's former secretary-treasurer without that person's knowledge.

Prosecutors said Cuomo faces a maximum 10 years in prison and a fine of as much as $250,000, although maximum sentences in federal court are rare for first-time offenders. His sentencing date is Jan. 27.
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Linkedin Josa Lukman (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Thu, October 1, 2020 15:31 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c487a01f 1 Art & Culture Batik-Day,Batik-Garuda-Nusantara,Milan-Fashion-Week,fashion,arts-and-culture,batik-artisans,Joko-Widodo,Iriana-Joko-Widodo Free

Though the COVID-19 pandemic continues to pose challenges, batik artisans still stand true, come hell or high water.

Like many events and celebrations this year, the annual Batik Day is likely to be overshadowed by the pandemic.

In a time of crisis, it might sound silly to look for what some consider non-essential, as health and safety triumphs over anything else.

While there is a grain of truth there, any semblance of normalcy can be a brief respite in the face of overwhelming uncertainty.

Which is perhaps why the wax-resist dyed batik cloth, one of the symbols of Indonesias rich culture for the outside world, also symbolizes hope in these trying times. This is best exemplified in the Batik Garuda Nusantara cloth, finished just in time for the celebration.

Initiated by the Tjanting Batik Nusantara Foundation, the Batik Garuda Nusantara cloth was officiated by President Joko Jokowi Widodo and First Lady Iriana on Aug. 1, 2019, marking the 10th anniversary of UNESCOs recognition of batik as an intangible cultural heritage.

As the occasion also marked Indonesias 74th year of independence, the batik cloth itself was designed to be 74 meters in length without any seams as well as dyed entirely using natural dyes.

Due to the double-sided nature of batik, the total length in the process was 148 meters. For context, the height of the National Monument is 132 meters.

Collective work: At 74 meters in length, the cloth took more than a year to complete, involving more than 90 artisans putting in a combined total of 216,000 man-hours of painstaking work. (Tjanting Batik Nusantara Foundation/-)

On Sept. 25, the project was finally completed.

Involving more than 90 artisans putting in a total of 216,000 hours of labor, the Batik Garuda Nusantara is ready for public viewing on Batik Day, the commemoration of which will take place at the National Museum and to be streamed online.

Dubbed by the President himself, the Garuda Batik Nusantara received its name from the gurdo (garuda) pattern, the first motif to grace the cloth. Other traditional patterns are also present, like the parang, truntum, sido mukti and sekar jagad.

Pheo Hutabarat, the foundations head of supervisory board, said during a virtual press conference that the four patterns were considered after a lengthy research process with the Foreign Ministry, which decided on the patterns as part of international batik diplomacy.

The Batik Garuda Nusantara was initiated as a reflection on post-independence batik, where the first wave can be said to begin when President Sukarno in 1955 requested batik maestro Go Tik Swan to create a batik for Indonesia. Our president thought that we must continue to develop  beyond varieties like batik from Solo or Lasem, but Indonesian batik, he said.

The second wave, he continued, was in 2009 when UNESCO formally recognized batik as an intangible cultural heritage, along with then-president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyonos decree that Oct. 2 would be designated as National Batik Day to honor the moment.

If we look at it, batik is the only part of [Indonesian] culture formally celebrated with its own day of celebration. Chinas Xinhua recently tried to claim batik as a traditional Chinese art, so we thought that there is a need to create an icon of masterpiece so that batik can be fully appreciated by the public as part of the nations branding.

While the pandemic has created a difficult situation, the artisans were committed to finishing the batik cloth. The original plan to put the cloth on a world tour was also put on hold indefinitely.

Even so, batik still became an international star with the recent fashion show by Surabaya-based label Maquinn Couture on the stage of Milan Fashion Week.

Tradition meets trend: Surabaya-based label Maquinn Couture, the sole Indonesian representative at Milan Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2021, is built upon a love of batik passed down from generations. (Maquinn Couture/-)

Having the honor of being the sole Indonesian representative for the Spring/Summer 2021 season, Maquinn Couture showcased intricate designs marrying Indonesian textiles with European styles on Saturday.

Titled Pilgrimage, the collection exudes classic femininity, with dramatic silhouettes punctuated by elaborate detailing worthy of Milans hallowed catwalks.

Towering: The Pilgrimage collection is meant to represent an acculturation between Indonesian textiles and European styles, highlighting batik Pekalongan and intricate detailing. (Maquinn Couture/-)

Helmed by sisters Janice Pradipta Setyawan and Benita Pradipta Setiawan, Maquinn Couture was built upon a love of batik passed down from their mother.

In a virtual press conference before the show, Benita noted batiks eminence in the international scene but said that the brand wanted the traditional textile to be worn even in other cultures seamlessly.

We dont want batik to be worn only for formal or ceremonial affairs but also to become one with its wearer to be worn on every occasion during the day. We want to show the versatility of batik, showing that batik can be really flexible, she said.

For the Pilgrimage collection, the sisters looked at classical European styles like the leg of mutton sleeves and voluminous skirts, but also art.

Janice explained that one of the inspirations was from a 16th century painting by German painter Lucas Cranach the Elder, depicting the biblical figure Adam and Eve under a tree surrounded by animals.

We used this painting as inspiration because this was a portrait of early life  diverse but harmonious. This is also one of our aims, to combine various cultures into one but without erasing their distinct personalities, she said.

Maquinn Coutures offerings feature intricate details painstakingly handmade, from the beadwork to the embroidery, but the batik remains its foundation.

Benita noted that the production of their batik pieces maintained traditional elements of the process, from the weaving of the silk to the writing of the patterns.

Batiks superiority lies not only within the patterns but also from its creation process, she explained.

With the popularity of batik, she also highlighted the importance of the artisans, especially the sustainability aspect of the business.

By continuously innovating like what we are doing, it will also affect the artisans  not only can they survive, they can also go up a grade, or so to speak, as they will be challenged to innovate as well.
The police in Uttar Pradesh's Gautam Buddh Nagar on Thursday said it has lodged an FIR against Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and around 200 other party workers under The Epidemic Diseases Act for not maintaining social distancing and not wearing face masks.

IMAGE: Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra along with party workers on their way to Hathras to meet the family members of the alleged gang-rape victim at Yamuna Expressway in Greater Noida. Photograph: PTI Photo

The FIR was lodged under Indian Penal Code sections 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant), 269 (unlawfully or negligently spreading infection of any disease dangerous to life), 270 (malignant act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life) and under section 3 of the Epidemic Diseases Act, the police said.

Some party members have also been booked for indulging in a scuffle during which some women constables were hurt while the uniform of a lady sub-inspector got torn, the Gautam Buddh Nagar police said in a statement.

Earlier in the day, around 200 Congress workers, including senior leaders of the party, had started a march on the expressways in Greater Noida after their convoy was stopped near Pari Chowk. The two Gandhi siblings and around 150 party workers were briefly detained by the police and later released on personal bond, a senior officer told PTI.

The party workers were en route to Hathras to meet the family of the 19-year-old Dalit woman, who had died in a Delhi hospital on Tuesday, a fortnight after she was allegedly gang-raped near her village in western UP.
For a small state, Connecticut is packed to the brim with creatures of legend and folk lore. With Halloween just around the corner, what better way to get spooked than seeing what might be out there in the darkness.

Click through to see some of Connecticut's best urban myths and legends:
Sutapa Sikdar, the wife of late actor Irrfan Khan recently took to Facebook to pen a lengthy post on the raging insider-outsider debate in Bollywood. Sutapa clarified that the post was not linked to Sushant Singh Rajputs death. Without taking names she addressed the self-proclaimed messiah of outsiders, and said that the jargon only works in design journals.

She started her post with a warning that the post would be very long. She then gave her own background, saying that she was from Delhi, and a Bengali not born in West Bengal. She also said she was married to a Muslim man. She said that her roots are distant from her now, but her culture is still intact. She said that there are several ticks that qualify her as an outsider, working in Bollywood.

Sutapa further said that she does not want to be patronised. I am about myself ! I am unique! I am me! I am indian! Hence I kind of feel you the one who is pretending to be the messiah of outsiders who most probably is not even from the industry is putting me into a bracket and underlining for the whole world to see I am an outsider and also hence pity me? I dont want your patronization. Did you ask any outsiders  if they want this intervention?? Or you are self appointed outsiders association of India??" she wrote.

She continued, I eat Bhakhri listen to Marathi songs. Stop this! This inside outside theories it works only in design journals. Dont narrow the concept of oneness if one would take the regionalism so strongly you become a frog in a small pond..because I look at many sadhus spiritualist coming from every region but finding solace in Himalayas ..who owns Himalayas ? and when they go their its them they melt to the region not the people of that region? Its their need to go to Himalayas not those people who are inhabitants on the foothills and no one cares as its purely nirvana. Neither the seeker nor the giver."

She further wrote about Irrfan, saying how he carved his own way. If you consider your work a spiritual quest you wont be sad if people didnt call you for their parties or did not come for your premiers. Irrfan did not get a cover page of a film magazine for many years he did not waste his time gossiping about people or bad mouthing nor did he get depress , he chiseled his craft ..and refused to be part of it till he got the cover page and he did. (he got mostly depressed not clinically but sad, looking at the disparity in the society.) or once or twice went to a brink of breakdown preparing for roles not because so called insiders did not call him for holi parties. and yes no one dared make fun of him ever on any show or any channel."

The point is if you are unable to sustain the indifference of the power people or understand the business of film industry and you want to continue here then you need help and talking to a therapist is not equivalent to be called mad. Its a simple thing no one owns Bollywood until or unless you think there are some people who own this industry. The Bollywood couldnt do a s**t about Irrfan getting Hollywood offers," she added.

Did he miss the parties as some call them imperative to attend to feel wanted and be part of the Bollywood? No he didnt even feel to be part of vacuous stuff also without being cynical he was a great believer in individual choices. But why would he have felt left out?? May I know? In one hand we call them toxic and on the other we are offended if they dont include you. Its a weird desire you are yourself giving them the power by seeking for their validation.

She concluded the note on an important point. In the end of the day you choose to be who you are no one else does it for you. So your weaknesses are yours, your fears are yours, your fight is yours. May you survive in the most dignified way because that will determine what you are made up of. Ps : please dont remark without reading the whole post. Pss : it has nothing to do with SSR."

Irrfan passed away on April 29, 2020 after a two year-long battle with cancer. Apart from Sutapa, he is also survived by sons Babil and Ayan Khan.
Technology is paving the way for more efficient emergency rescues in the hilly terrain of the United Kingdoms Lake District.

According to a report by CNN Business, the worlds first jet suit-wearing paramedic could be coming to that area, known to be popular with hikers.

In a Sept. 15 test exercise, using the 1050 brake horsepower jet suit, the report said that what would have been a 25-minute hike was reduced to a flight lasting just 90 seconds, according to the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS), which had been collaborating on the project with jet suit manufacturer Gravity Industries, for a year.

Given the areas treacherous geographical features, "the jet suit could be a game changer, the report said.

In a statement on Tuesday, Andy Mawson, director of operations at GNAAS, said: We think this technology could enable our team to reach some patients much quicker than ever before, the report cited.

In many cases this would ease the patients suffering. In some cases, it would save their lives, Mawson said.

Where was the test performed?

The report said that after analyzing emergency call data, Mawson thought the Lake District, a UNESCO-protected heritage site located in northern England, and home to some of Englands highest peaks, would be a good location for the exercise.

Mawson said, It showed dozens of patients every month within the complex but relatively small geographical footprint of the Lakes, the report quoted.

The test was carried out at the Langdale Pikes, the report said. Gravity Industries founder Richard Browning flew from the valley bottom to a simulated casualty site at a higher elevation.

Will the jet suit have a future in emergency response?

We could see the need," Mawson said. "What we didnt know for sure is how this would work in practice. Well weve seen it now and it is, quite honestly, awesome, the report quoted.

According to the CNN report, Mawson believes the jet suit has huge potential to be an extra resource in delivering critical care to remote areas.

Browning, the jet suits inventor, told CNN that emergency response is one of the areas Gravity is actively pursuing.

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The sequel will air on October 23 on Amazon Prime

Sequel is titled Borat: Gift of Pornographic Monkey to Vice Premiere Mikhael Pence to Make Benefit Recently Diminished Nation of Kazakhstan

The new poster pokes fun at rulings over wearing a face covering

The name suggests that Pence will be a target, while former New York City mayor Rudy Giuliani will also make an appearance

The original 2006 film featured Cohen playing his Borat character, which he first debuted on his hit TV series Da Ali G Show

There were first hints that a sequel was happening in August, when Cohen was spotted in his iconic Borat suit driving in an old pickup truck

Sacha Baron Cohen posed for an extremely risque poster for the upcoming Borat 2 movie, ahead of its release on October 23 on Amazon Prime.

In a nod to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, Sacha, 48, donned a face covering in place of the character's now-iconic, neon green mankini.

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The highly-anticipated sequel to the actor's wildly successful 2006 comedy Borat, will premiere on Amazon after bosses bought the worldwide rights to the film and the new poster boasts the slogan: 'Wear mask. Save live'.

Ahem! Sacha Baron Cohen posed for an extremely risque poster for the upcoming Borat 2 movie, ahead of its release on October 23 on Amazon Prime

The sequel is titled Borat: Gift of Pornographic Monkey to Vice Premiere Mikhael Pence to Make Benefit Recently Diminished Nation of Kazakhstan, according to a now-deleted listing at the Writers Guild of America website (via The Film Stage).

There were first hints that a sequel was happening in August, when Cohen was spotted in his iconic Borat suit driving an old pickup truck.

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Earlier this month, Collider reported the Borat sequel has already been filmed, and even screened for unspecified industry types, after the crew resumed production as soon as coronavirus restrictions were eased.

Deadline reports Sacha 'risked his life' while filming and had to wear a bulletproof vest on two different shooting days.

Shocker! The green mankini worn by the character became a pop culture favourite and is often spotted being used as a fancy dress costume

He's back! The highly-anticipated sequel to the actor's wildly successful 2006 comedy Borat, will premiere on Amazon after bosses bought the worldwide rights to the film and the new poster boasts the slogan: 'Wear mask. Save live' (pictured in 2006)

MailOnline has contacted the comedian's representatives and Amazon for comment.

While the title has yet to be confirmed with any official marketing materials, it does fall in line with the full title of the original film: Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan.

The name suggests that Pence will be a target, while former New York City mayor Rudy Giuliani will also make an appearance.

Return: The film became a cult classic

Sequel: There were first hints that a sequel was happening in August, when Cohen was spotted in his iconic Borat suit driving an old pickup truck

The title also insinuates that Pence has ties to Russia, calling him 'Mikhael Pence' instead of Mike Pence, and giving him the Russian title of Vice Premiere instead of Vice President.

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The original 2006 film featured Cohen playing his Borat character, which he first debuted on his hit TV series Da Ali G Show.

Borat was a TV reporter from Kazakhstan, who was sent to America with his producer Azamat (Ken Davitan).

While Borat is sent to report on the American way of life, he quickly becomes obsessed with the old TV series Baywatch, as he begins a quest to find and marry star Pamela Anderson.

Quite the character: The original 2006 film featured Cohen playing his Borat character, which he first debuted on his hit TV series Da Ali G Show

The now-deleted Writer's Guild of America post also revealed that several different writers worked on the Borat sequel script.

The screenplay is credited to Sacha Baron Cohen, Anthony Hines, Dan Swimer, Peter Baynham, Erica Rivinoja, Dan Mazer, Jena Friedman, and Lee Kern with story by Sacha Baron Cohen, Anthony Hines, Dan Swimer, and Nina Pedrad.

Hines, Baynham and Mazer all got screenplay credit on the original Borat movie, with Cohen, Baynham, Hines and Todd Phillips getting story credit.

Swimer, Kern and Hines have worked with Cohen on his hit Showtime series This Is America, while Rivinoja wrote for South Park and worked on movies such as Girls Trip, Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs and Trolls.

Friedman had written for Late Night with David Letterman and The Conners, while also acting in films like Palm Springs, while Nina Pedrad has written on 30 Rock, New Girl and Will & Grace.

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Larry Charles directed the first Borat movie, though it isn't clear if he directs the sequel.
Judge Denies Bail for Ed Buck

A request for bail was denied last Friday for Democratic Party fundraiser Ed Buck, who is accused of giving drugs to a man who died at his West Hollywood apartment after allegedly being lured across state lines for prostitution.

Over 4,000 people signed a petition that was submitted in court, asking the judge to deny Buck bail in the name of public safety.

Bucks attorneys, Christopher Darden and Ludlow B. Creary II, argued that their client should be released from the downtown federal lockup due to the COVID-19 pandemic currently moving through jails and prisons. Buck, 66, had offered to put up a $400,000 signature bond and submit to electronic monitoring and home confinement. However, U.S. Magistrate Judge Rozella A. Oliver found that the proposed bond conditions were insufficient to ensure Bucks presence at trial, given the incentives to flee. She also determined that Buck would pose a danger to the community if allowed to leave jail before his trial in January.

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As for the threat of COVID-19, the judge said defense attorneys did not show that the Metropolitan Detention Center was unable to handle Bucks medical needs, and that he didnt have any medical conditions that put him at elevated risk for the virus, beyond his age.

Federal prosecutors allege Buck has a history of injecting men with drugs and paying them for sexual activity, and emphasized in a court filing that a previous judges ruling denying a pre-trial release on grounds of danger to the community was correct.

Darden, who became a household name prosecuting O.J. Simpson for murder in the mid-1990s, represented Eric Holder, who is accused of killing hip-hop artist, Nipsey Hussle last year. Darden then dropped the case when he began receiving death threats.

In court, Darden bragged about the amount of money Buck was paying him and complained to the judge about having to go down to the Metropolitan Detention Center to visit his client because he was risking catching coronavirus.

Journalist and victim advocate, Jasmyne Cannick, said the judge made the right decision in denying Bucks application for pretrial release and home confinement.

Home is where his crimes were committed, she said. Home is where his drugs were delivered to. Home is where he was injecting people and sexually assaulting people. Home is where two Black men died. So, were excited and happy that the judge saw fit to deny his bail.

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Cannick attended the hearing, along with West Hollywood Mayor Lindsey Horvath who was concerned Buck might be returning to her city.

Buck is scheduled to go to trial in Los Angeles federal court on nine counts next year. He also faces state charges of running a drug den, but the federal case will proceed first.

Buck was arrested last year after being charged in federal court with providing methamphetamine to a man who died after receiving the drug intravenously. He now faces additional charges, including a count alleging that he enticed 26-year-old, Gemmel Moore, to travel to the Los Angeles area to engage in prostitution. Buck allegedly provided meth to Moore, who overdosed on the drug and died on July 27, 2017.

Buck is charged with a second count of enticing a man to travel with the intent of engaging in prostitution. He is also accused of knowingly and intentionally distributing meth, and using his apartment for the purpose of distributing narcotics such as meth, and the sedatives, gamma hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) and clonazepam.

Trial is scheduled for Jan. 19

Federal prosecutors allege that Buck engaged in a pattern of soliciting men to consume drugs that Buck provided and perform sexual acts at Bucks apartment, a practice described as party and play, according to court papers.

Buck allegedly solicited victims on social media platforms, including a gay dating website, and used a recruiter to scout and proposition men. Once the men were at his apartment, Buck allegedly prepared syringes containing meth, sometimes personally injecting the victims with or without their consent, according to the indictment.

Buck also allegedly injected victims with more narcotics than they expected and sometimes injected victims while they were unconscious. Another victim, Timothy Dean, also suffered a fatal overdose in Bucks apartment, on Jan. 7, 2019, according to the indictment.

Each of the charges alleging the distribution of narcotics resulting in death, carries a mandatory minimum of 20 years in federal prison and possible maximum of life without parole.

Los Angeles County District Attorneys Jackie Lacey still has not charged Ed Buck in the deaths of Gemmel Moore or Timothy Dean.
A furnace explosion rocked an east-end ArcelorMittal Dofasco machine shop Tuesday, but the steelmaker says no one was seriously injured.

The Spectator was contacted anonymously about the explosion and sent a photo of a mangled oven in a debris-strewn machine shop on Depew Street, north of Beach Road.

Company spokesperson Marie Verdun confirmed an explosion occurred around 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday in a stress relief furnace used to heat parts during repair.

The cause of the blast is still under investigation, she said. The steelmakers own fire team responded to the explosion and ensured the building and its occupants were safe, she said.

The blast was loud  you might have heard it in surrounding neighbourhoods like Crown Point or Stinson  but did not cause a fire, Verdun said. Nothing disastrous happened.

Verdun said a few workers were in the area when the explosion occurred, but no one reported any injuries aside from ringing in the ears of one employee who is back on the job. Obviously, we are relieved about that.

The provincial Ministry of Labour was notified about the explosion Wednesday and is investigating, but had no findings to share yet, a spokesperson said via email.

The provincial Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks said it has determined the explosion was contained within the building, so off-site environmental impacts are not a concern.

The oven in the shop was completely destroyed, but Verdun could not say Wednesday how much damage was done to the rest of the building.

She expressed thanks to the steelmakers workers and fire team for quick action to limit the safety risk. Our teams will continue our root cause analysis to ensure that the risk of an event like this is mitigated and it never happens again, she said.

The machine shop is separate from the companys sprawling harbourfront steelmaking footprint, where two workplace injuries spurred a $290,000 fine against the steelmaker earlier this year.

In recent years, ArcelorMittal Dofasco has also faced complaints over blast furnace and coke oven pollution on the bayfront. The company is working to complete a multi-year, $87-million rehabilitation of its coke-making facilities that is meant to improve emissions in Hamilton.
In what can be termed as a new low for the humanity, particularly in such times of duress, a plasma donation fraud has surfaced in Karnatakas Bengaluru. Pretending to be plasma donors, the culprits modus operandi involves calling up families of coronavirus positive patients, answering requests for plasma donation. The criminals then collect the money and disappear, leaving the families hapless, a report by Bangalore Mirror said.

Despite a multi-centric study funded by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) finding minimal use of convalescent plasma therapy in coronavirus-infected patients in reducing mortality or progression to severe COVID-19, several state governments had initially set up plasma therapy units and continue to do so.

The Clinical Management Protocols for COVID-19 issued by the Union Health Ministry on June 27 allowed use of convalescent plasma (Off label) for treating coronavirus-infected patients in moderate stage of the illness under investigational therapies". This authorisation has been paralleled by questionable practices such as calls for donors on social media, and the sale of CP on the black market with exorbitant price tags in India, the study said.

Coming back to a spate of such inhumane incidents, crooks have been calling up families of Covid-19 patients, falsely assuring them of help. The families have alleged that these callers then accept advance payments and disappear, leaving the families in a lurch.

Mohammed Ismail, who works as a volunteer for the Mercy Mission was quoted by the Mirror narrating an incident where a family who needed plasma was cheated out of Rs7,000. They reportedly got a call from an unidentified man who said he can help them with the plasma if they transferred the amount to him on GooglePay. The money was paid and the family waited for him to come donate blood, only to realise they had been duped.

Another incident took place at MS Ramaiah Hospital where a woman and her family, hailing from Kolar had tested positive for the coronavirus. The woman, identified as Sushma, had sent out requests through messages, asking for plasma donation for her father who was in a critical condition. Sushma was later approached by a man who said he was from the Rotary Club and sought Rs 7,000 from her in exchange for the plasma. She transferred the amount but when ever after hours she didnt get a response, she realised it was a fraud.

Then I received several such calls from random numbers and realised the extent of the fraud. Since we are all in hospital, I have verbally filed a complaint with the local police," Sushma was quoted by Mirror.

Volunteers advise the patients families to directly procure blood from a blood bank, for which they have to pay a minimal fee for the upkeep of the bank. The family of the patient is not ideally supposed to pay a donor, it is to be given out through the government. They add that although the government has said donors will be getting Rs 5,000 for plasma donation, there has been no guidelines framed for it so far. And having no such information makes it very easy for the gullible and desperate family members to fall for such frauds.

A senior police officer has said they will be taking cognizance of Sushmas complaint and investigate the fraud.

Dr US Vishal Rao, Associate Dean, Centre for Academics and Research, HCG Cancer Centre, Bangalore has condemned the incidents and advised the families to source blood or plasma from the registered blood banks that are running in the city.

Dr Rao also warns that the blood donated has to be checked for anti-bodies before using it for patients, or else the treatment does not serve any purpose.
She ran away from her home in North Korea six years ago to find a safe haven in the South.

But it was after meeting a South Korean spy, she says, that another nightmare began.

Lee, who we're only identifying by her last name to protect her identity, was raped by the man -- according to the defector and prosecutors.

"I was mad at myself, I should have defended or fought with a knife, but I was just unable to fight back when they did that to me."

She may not be alone.

More than 72% of North Koreans resettled in the South are women and at least a quarter of them encountered sexual violence in the South, but less than 10% sought help, the gender equality ministry found in a 2017 survey.

In Lee's case, the suspected abuser called himself Dr Seong. She says he was a mysterious man, and like a father figure to help her start a new life.

Seong paid her for info. She had previously worked at a military institute in the north.

He also helped her reconnect with her brother, who was detained by secret police in North Korea.

But eventually Seong and a colleague, identified by the name Kim, began to sexually abuse her.

She says it lasted a year and a half and she was pressed to get two abortions and suffered severe distress.

"After all, they were the first people that I trusted, respected and relied upon here in the South."

Military prosecutors this month indicted the two men, a lieutenant colonel and a master sergeant with charges of sexual assault and rape.

But both men have denied rape, according to the chief military prosecutor. They are said to say it was consensual.

Lee's lawyer, Jeon Su-mi, blames the system for enabling agents to take advantage of vulnerable defectors.

"The women can't say no, they have to obey and have to go out at midnight if they are requested to. The South Korean surveillance system on North Korean defectors has absolute power like God, even if they are just government employees here."

Defectors have complained recently that the government of President Moon Jae-in, who has made improving ties with North Korea a priority, is failing to provide refuge by ignoring rights, stifling political activity and deporting some escapees.
Oxford museum will send the skeleton to be reunited with a relative in Denmark

Skeleton is one of 35 men and boys believed to have been massacred in AD 1002

Slaughter took place after King Aethelred II of England ordered the slaying of dozens of Danish raiders, settlers and their children

The familial tie between the two skeletons was discovered after scientists excavated another skeleton in Denmark and found DNA matches

A British museum will send a Viking skeleton that was butchered in an ethnic cleansing massacre in AD 1002 to its home in Denmark to be reunited with its 1,000-year-old relative.

The skeleton, known as SK1756, is being held at Oxfordshire County Council's Museum Resource Centre and is one of at least 35 men and boys believed to be victims of the St Brice's Day massacre in Oxford in AD 1002.

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The slaughter is said to have taken place after King Aethelred II of England ordered the execution of dozens of Danish raiders, settlers and their children.

But DNA has revealed that a male skeleton discovered during an excavation in Denmark could be a relative such as an uncle, nephew, grandfather, grandson or half-brother - and experts want to reunite them.

A Viking skeleton from AD 1002 at the Museum Resource Centre in Oxfordshire today

The skull of a Viking skeleton from AD 1002 which features nine sword marks at the Museum Resource Centre in Oxfordshire today

Archaeology curator Angie Bolton inspects a Viking skeleton from AD 1002 at the Museum Resource Centre in Oxfordshire today

The skeleton will be taken 'home' to Copenhagen next year, where it will be displayed in a Viking exhibition.

SK1756 is also set to be featured in a TV documentary about the Vikings led by Dr Rane Willerslev, director of the National Museum of Denmark.

Some of the work in establishing the link between the two skeletons was carried out by his twin brother Eske, an expert in DNA.

Dr Willerslev said: 'We thought it was exciting when we made the link.

'We thought that Vikings had left Denmark to live in Britain, but we were not certain. Now we had the evidence that they were kin.

The full Viking skeleton is seen at the Museum Resource Centre in Oxfordshire today

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The vertebrae of a Viking skeleton from AD 1002 which features markings from a spear or projectile at the Museum Resource Centre in Oxfordshire today

'It was strange to see this skeleton - one of your ancestors - which had been hit eight to 10 times in the head and stabbed several times in the spine, just lying there in front of you.'

Dr Willerslev had travelled to the museum in Standlake, Oxon., to interview archaeology curator Angie Bolton.

She said: 'The DNA link to the Danish skeleton is amazing and it's quite a privilege for our collection to be recognised in this way.'

The mass grave was discovered in 2008 when excavations took place ahead of a development in the grounds of the University's of Oxford's St John's College.

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Subsequent research then showed that they had all been massacred at the same time, probably in AD 1002.

While 33 of them were tall, robust adult males, two were adolescents who had met a violent death - but did not necessarily lead a violent life.

Analysis suggests that some of the victims originated from within the UK, Denmark and Germany.

The rib bones of a Viking skeleton from AD 1002 at the Museum Resource Centre in Oxfordshire today

The massacre was prompted by King Aethelred's frustration at his inability to stop Viking invaders from raiding England, experts say.

The St Brice's Day slaughter is not well known among the general Danish population, but Dr Willerslev is not expecting a backlash when his documentary reveals the gory details.

He said: 'I don't think there will be any hard feelings towards the Brits.

'People always think the Vikings went overseas and killed and plundered, but here the situation is turned around. It's payback!'

'Vikings are very popular at the moment.

'Denmark is regularly reinventing its relationship with the Vikings - the depictions are very different throughout the years - but they remain one of the most popular themes you can exhibit. Why is this?

'Well, there are adventures and a glorious time in Scandinavian history, when Christian beliefs met Pagan Europe.

'Scandinavia is very peaceful now so it's intriguing and challenging to look at the past and see what motivated them.'

SK1756 will be making the journey to Copenhagen next spring, and there are plans to carry out more tests on the 1,000-year-old bones - either in Durham or Denmark - to try to unearth more secrets from beyond the grave.

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And if Ms Bolton has her way, SK1756's Danish relative will travel in the opposite direction at some point in the future.

She said: 'I would love to borrow the Danish skeleton and put on an exhibition in Oxfordshire, showing this example of ethnic cleansing, and shatter a few myths about us and the Vikings.'

The documentary and the exhibition are due to open at the Danish National Museum in Copenhagen in 2021 and run in various forms until 2024
The FBI began searching a landfill in Florida on Thursday as the hunt continued for a missing mother who traveled from Georgia two-months ago to sell her pickup truck to a self-labeled witch.

In August, the agency announced a $10,000 reward and released surveillance footage showing the last known images of Leila Cavett, 21, whose two-year-old son Kamdyn was found wandering alone outside a Miramar apartment complex in July.

The Miramar Police Department, Hollywood Police Department and the Broward Sheriffs Office are also investigating the woman's disappearance but none of the agencies would reveal what tip may have taken the search to the Monarch Hill Landfill in Pompano Beach.

Shannon Ryan, 38, was charged with kidnapping in August as it's believed he dropped off Kamdyn in the area he was found. Authorities believe he intended to collect a ransom, reward or other benefit by holding Cavett.

The FBI began searching the Monarch Hill Landfill in Pompano Beach, Broward on Thursday

Leila Cavett, of Atlanta, was last seen on the night of July 25, just hours before her son, Kamdyn (pictured together), was found wandering alone in a shirt and diaper outside a Miramar apartment complex

Shannon Ryan, 38, and charged him with kidnapping with the intent of collecting a ransom, reward or other benefit. Ryan is a self-labeled witch

Cavett's family members said they last talked to her on July 17 and have no idea why she would've traveled to Florida.

'I FaceTimed her on July 17. We were on the phone for about an hour and she was fine,' one of her sisters told reporters a few weeks ago.

'She didnt have any plans to come to Florida, so were very confused right now.'

Court documents said Ryan told investigators he has known Cavett since around January 2019.

Ryan claimed that she had come to Florida to sell him her pickup truck.

Investigators from the FBI also said that Cavett was seen at a Cracker Barrel in Vero Beach near Interstate 95 on July 24, the day that she traveled from Georgia to Florida with her son.

According to the complaint, Ryan said Cavett met him at a gas station in Hollywood on July 25 before heading to the beach with the toddler in Ryan's gold Lexus.

Cavett, of Atlanta, was last seen on the night of July 25, just hours before her son was found wandering alone in a shirt and diaper.

The video clips shows Cavett's Chevrolet pickup truck traveling from one side of a gas station to another on the afternoon of July 25.

Another clip shows her getting out of a Lexus sedan at the gas station that afternoon, along with two shots of her inside the convenience store, first at 3.09pm and again at 10.16pm.

The second time she was seen walking into the store holding her son Kamdyn.

Authorities didn't say what tip may have led to the search location. Law enforcement previously recovered shovels with small droplets of a red substance on them

Her son Kamdyn was put into care while authorities looked for his mother missing two months now

The FBI has released surveillance footage in August showing the last known images of missing Leila Cavett. Cavett is seen standing near the door of a gas station on the afternoon of July 25 (left) and in the nighttime (right)

In video footage obtained by law enforcement, Ryan was spotted parking his vehicle near the trash bin on July 26.

He said that when they returned to the gas station, they parked at the pumps and she and Kamdyn then got into a vehicle with several Black males. That was around 2.30am on July 26.

But investigators said surveillance video from the gas station doesn't show Ryan's car at the pump. In a criminal complaint filed in Fort Lauderdale on Monday, the FBI said video evidence does not support Ryan's claims that he saw Leila and her son get into another person's vehicle at a Hollywood RaceTrac gas station.

Investigators also say he bought odor eliminator, duct tape and extra-large garbage bags around the time of her disappearance.

A federal search warrant executed on Ryan's phone shows that he had made various Google searches, including 'What day does commercial garbage pickup for Hollywood, Florida?' and 'Does bleach and alcohol make chloroform?'

Law enforcement also recovered shovels with small droplets of a red substance on them.

The complaint said several employees at the gas station were interviewed by investigators. One recognized Ryan, and had seen him near the trash bin.

Another employee remembered seeing women's clothing and children's toys in the trash and recognized a pair of floral pants worn by Cavett, the complaint said.

Cavett is seen getting out of a Lexus outside a gas station in Florida in July

Her white truck is also seen outside a store driving from one end of the parking lot to another

Her vehicle was found unattended July 28 in Hollywood.

Previously, Ryan shared a number of recent social media that appeared to be directly or potentially about the case.

On Facebook, Ryan declared that he is a spiritual adviser, CEO, a teacher and a witch.

'Stop thinking like muggles,' he wrote in one post. 'A witch putting a hex on someone does not mean that person is going to die or be killed. Why would a Witch kill anyone they want to suffer?

'There is no suffering in death, only the living suffer. You need flesh, bones and a beating heart in order to feel pain.'

'A Witch is not a spiritual assassin. We do not take death contracts. Death has already contracted us all, unless you got an extension,' he added.

In a 51-minute video shared August 9, titled 'Who is Leila Cavett and What is My Connection to her Disappearance,' he directly references the case and claims to be the last person to have seen her before she vanished.

'Leila's separation from her son is completely out of character. Her family and others in our community are very concerned about her safety and well-being,' FBI Miami Special Agent in Charge George L. Piro said.

Authorities said Cavett is about 5 feet 3 inches tall with shoulder length hair. She has a fish tattoo on her right wrist and another tattoo that says Kamdyn on her right arm.

Cavett's son is in the custody of Child Protective Services as police continue their investigation. Her family is in Alabama.

Anyone with information about her disappearance should call 1-800-CALL-FBI or go to fbi.gov/tips.

Ryan claimed that Cavett had come to Florida to sell him her pickup truck (pictured)
The motif is birds, probably peacocks, flanking a stylized tree or cross. It consists of several silk pieces sewn together. One piece, 30x40 cm, covers the front of the pillow and about a third of the back, while the rest consists of strips about 5 cm wide, cut off without regard to the pattern. The colors are golden and two light blue shades. Credit: Nationalmuseet/The National Museum of Denmark

The cathedral in Odense, Denmark, has for nine centuries held the relics of the Danish King St. Canute the Holy and his brother Benedikt. They were both murdered here in AD 1086, and just a few years later, in AD 1100, King Canute was sanctified.

The history of the relics has been that of turmoil at times, varying from initial worship of the Catholic believers to being walled up and hidden after the protestant reformation in AD 1536.

Since the 19th century the brothers' wooden shrines have been on display in the cathedral as heritage objects of national importance.

How old are the silks?

The shrines of Canute and Benedikt have long been a puzzle in Danish history. They both contain several well-preserved textiles of silk and linen and the question is: How old are the textiles and what is their historical context?

Now, researchers have examined some of the textiles in the two shrines. They conclude that King Canute's shrine no longer holds the precious silk textiles placed in it at his enshrinement.

Instead it is likely that the textiles from his brother's shrine at some point were moved to King Canute's shrine.

According to historical sources, both brothers were covered in valuable textiles when enshrined. Sources have described how Canute's shrine in AD 1536 was lined with beautiful and rare silk.

Decades later, both shrines were walled up in the cathedral, placed vertically so that the bones and textiles lay in a heap at the bottom of each shrine, and hereafter there are no reportings of the precious textiles in King Canute's shrine when it was re-examined in AD 1694 and AD 1833.

The Eagle Silk blanket was originally 195-230 cm wide, but today the remains measure 110 cm high and 133 cm wide. It is woven as samite, a fine weaving technique developed in Sasanid Persia (AD 226-661). The original colors were dark blue, dyed with woad and indigo, and red, dyed with madder and sappanwood. Credit: Nationalmuseet/The National Museum of Denmark

"It is tempting to suggest that the king's precious textiles have been stolen at some point after AD 1582, says professor and an expert in archaeometry," says Kaare Lund Rasmussen from University of Southern Denmark.

When the two shrines were removed from their walled up hiding places and prepared to be put on display in 1874, researchers at the time were puzzled by the absence of valuable textiles in King Canute's shrinehis brother Benedikt had the more valuable textilesand they declared themselves unable to judge in which of the shrines the found fabrics belonged.

They decided to move the best textiles from Benedikt's shrine to King Canute's shrine, so that he could be presented with the most beautiful, most precious textiles when on display under a glass lid. Professor Kaare Lund Rasmussen and colleagues have performed chemical analysis of the textiles in both shrines and conclude that they are of the same age, and that their age fit with AD 1086, when the two brothers were enshrined.

Birds and eagle motif

"Together with historical sources this convinces us that today, King Canute lies in his shrine with what is actually his brother's burial textiles, says," professor Kaare Lund Rasmussen.

Among the textiles, intended for Benedikt but later placed with Canute, are a pillow with birds and a textile called the Eagle Silk.

"They are exquisite and beautiful, but King Canute's textiles must have been even more exquisite," says Kaare Lund Rasmussen.

According to senior researchers at the Danish National Museum, Ulla Kjr and Poul Grinder-Hansen, the luxurious silks may have been sent from South Italy to the shrines in Denmark by King Canute's widow, Edel, possibly brought home by Canute's half-brother, King Erik I, Ejegod.

At the time of Canute's canonization and enshrinement, silk weaving in Europe was not yet established outside the boundaries of the Byzantine Empire and silk was both a precious and much-coveted import article.

Explore further How textiles undergo fossilization via mineralization
Airlines will have to refund tickets booked prior to the Covid-19 lockdown for travel upto May 24, the Supreme Court ordered on Thursday, approving the formulation drafted by civil aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation to deal with refunds for cancelled tickets due to restrictions imposed due to the lockdown that started on March 25 this year.

The airlines will also have the option to create a credit shell in the name of the passenger which can be availed for travel on any route before March 31, 2021.

The credit shell shall be transferable and interest will accrue on the money in the credit shell: 0.5 per cent from date of cancellation till June 30 and thereafter 0.75 per cent till March 31, 2021, a three-judge bench of the top court ruled.

The bench of justices Ashok Bhushan, RS Reddy and MR Shah said tickets booked through travel agents will be refunded through travel agents.

Already, the DGCA had issued a notification on April 16 ordering immediate refund for tickets booked during lockdown (March 25-April 14). This order stays intact.

The top courts order came on a petition by Pravasi Legal Cell and Air Passengers Association who demanded refund for tickets booked prior to the lockdown.

During the hearings, the government backed transferable refund vouchers to be given to the passengers in lieu of the tickets booked for the cancelled flights.

Vistara and AirAsia had opposed the governments proposal, made during a Supreme Court hearing in a plea seeking a full refund, saying most customers prefer credit shells. IndiGo said it has fully refunded the booking amount. GoAir had pleaded that many airlines are on the brink of collapse and may shut if the situation doesnt improve.
Lenny Kravitz covered Mens Health and shared about his cordial relationship with Aquaman star Momoa

Lenny Kravitz is all about a healthy mind, body, and spirit. The rock star opened up to Mens Health telling the publication what he thinks about the current state of America, how he maintains living on an island, and his thoughts on his exs husband, Jason Momoa.

Read More: Lisa Bonet trends after ex-husband Lenny Kravitz celebrates her spouse Jason Mamoas birthday

Kravitz, 56, says he is very disappointed about where we are as a country in terms of race. Born to a Black mother and Jewish father, Kravitz told writer Alex Pappademas he is not impressed with our countrys progress on the subject.

Ive been talking about this stuff, says Kravitz . I would have thought wed be in such a better place than we are now. That we would have evolved. Not that it would have been anything close to perfect.

Zoe Kravitz, Lenny Kravitz, and Lisa Bonet arrive at the Saint Laurent show at the Hollywood Palladium on February 10, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images)

When COVID-19 hit America in March, Kravitz decided to head to the Bahamas until the madness died down and has been laying low in Eleuthera ever since. Hes living a minimalist lifestyle, eating off the land, and working out almost every day.

When Im here, I pretty much live that way anyway, he said. Its a beautiful thing to really realize what you dont need. If I have to stay here another five months, five years, Im good.

Kravitz may be living on an island alone now but at one time he was married to Cosby Show star Lisa Bonet. The two eloped in 1987, had their daughter, actress Zoe Kravitz in 1988, and were divorced by 1993. Bonet remarried actor Jason Momoa in 2017. Despite their breakup, Kravitz says he is a fan of Bonets new husband.

Read More: Angela Bassett, Lenny Kravitz and more pay tribute to Diahann Carroll at star-studded New York memorial service

People cant believe how tight Jason and I are, or how tight I still am with Zoes mom, how we all relate, Kravitz tells the magazine. We just do it because thats what you do. You let love rule, right? I mean, obviously, after a breakup, its workit takes some work and time, healing and reflection, et cetera. But as far as Jason and I? Literally the moment we met, we were like, Oh, yeah. I love this dude. 

Have you subscribed to theGrios podcast Dear Culture? Download our newest episodes now!

The post Lenny Kravitz on ex Lisa Bonets husband Jason Momoa: Love this dude appeared first on TheGrio.
Analysis Vocabulary Crisis Creates Yet Another Hurdle for Myanmars Federalism

Myanmar State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi (second left) is seen with leaders of the Myanmar military and ethnic armed organizations at the 8th Joint Implementation Coordination Meeting between the government and 10 EAOs in Naypyitaw on Jan. 8, 2020. / Myanmar State Counselors Office

Disputes over terminology have been commonplace throughout the endless peace talks seeking to end armed conflicts and establish a federal union in Myanmar.

The latest dispute is over the Burmese term state basic law or state constitution, although the negotiators representing the government, military and the ethnic armed groups which are signatories to the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) have agreed in principle that the right to draft a state law, guaranteeing autonomy, is necessary.

A state constitution, once drafted, must guarantee a state/regions authority over natural resources management, decision-making on finance and revenue, legislative structure, governance and the judicial system.

The aim is for each state/region in the future federal union to write its own law, which is acceptable to the residents of each federal unit. Therefore, the underlying principles of state constitutions might differ because each state/region would draft its law based on its particular needs.

The current structure of the union is based on the seven states, which are named after key ethnic groups; seven regions; six self-administered territories; and the Naypyitaw Union Territory. Although the state, regional and self-administered governments govern their areas, the Union government has centralized control.

Although the matter is on the negotiation table now, the right to draft the state constitutions will only come after the countrys military-backed 2008 Constitution is changed.

Since negotiators could not even agree on the Burmese term for a state constitution, the matter was set aside for further discussion after intense debate in early August. As a result, the issue of drafting state constitutions was not added as a principle in part three of the Union Accord, which was signed on Aug. 19 by the military, the political leaders and ethnic armed organizations.

Still, negotiators shared a consensus that when state constitutions are drafted, this must be done without contravening or going beyond the articles of the Union Constitution that ensure federalism and democracy values.

State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, who is also the chairperson of the ruling National League for Democracy (NLD), also stressed in August that all matters related to formulating the state constitutions must be in accordance with the law as long as they do not contravene the articles of the Constitution, as stipulated in the first constitution or 1947 constitution, which emerged based on the Panglong Agreement signed by the late General Aung San and ethnic leaders.

In the 2008 Constitution, there is no mention of the right of states/regions to draft their own constitutions. The NLD and ethnic parties attempted to amend the 2008 Constitution, but that effort failed in March when the militarys appointees and the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) lawmakers blocked the changes.

The approach by politicians, legislators and ethnic leaders so far has been to amend clauses in the 2008 Constitution, but they have failed to discuss how to achieve federal principles and have been stuck on defining terms, said Khun Okkar, a negotiator in the peace process, who is a patron of the Pa-O Nationalities Liberation Organization, an NCA signatory.

Call it a vocabulary crisis for now; the term state constitution has been familiar to most of the public for the last two decades.

Since the early 2000s, ethnic groups, including the ethnic armed organizations (EAOs) and ethnic politicians, have envisioned their respective state constitutions and a federal union constitution in Myanmar.

The issue was brought onto the peace talk table with the government and military in the last few years. The EAOs, not only the NCA signatories, but also the two non-NCA signatories, the Kachin Independence Army and the Karenni National Progressive Party, have also shared their thoughts on what basic principles should be included in a state constitution.

They say state constitutions are important because Myanmar is established based on the different sovereign states coming together to be a union in 1947 and not a holding together to be a country, Myanmar.

Based on that reality, the Naypyitaw government and the military nowadays have agreed in principle on the issue, said Kheunsai Jaiyen, a veteran Shan political observer, despite the persistent argument over terminology. The military proposed the term as state basic law while the EAOs consider it a state constitution.

There are also no interim provisions or guiding principles as of yet, but some think several key principles for the state constitution should be established via the peace process.

Regarding basic principles, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi said last October that when establishing a genuine democratic federal union, Myanmar needs to have sharing of power, resources and tax revenues in line with a federal system.

She also said, All federal units should have equal status. States [in this context meaning the federal units] should have their own state constitutions capable of guaranteeing the right to self-determination. And the states exercise of powers must be based on the [wishes of the] people.

The observers stressed that state constitutions need to ensure that every resident of the federal units (states) would be entitled to equal rights in access to land, social services, mother-tongue language, literature and governance, regardless of ethnicity or number of people in a group.

Talks among the EAOs about preparatory principles are pending because the groups could not meet yet due to the COVID-19 preventative measures. The peace talks with the government are also pending until April, when a new government will be formed after the 2020 general elections.

Implementing the state constitutions is likely to take longer even under the new government because the current Constitution is unlikely to be amended right away.

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Karen Ethnic Affairs Minister Candidates in Myanmars Yangon Square Off in Online Debate
New Delhi, Oct 1 : Users of ShareChat and its short video platform Moj can have access to library of Times Music and leading Punjabi Music catalog Speed Records to create content on the two platforms, the home-grown social media venture said on Thursday.

The move is in line with ShareChat's strategy to expand its music library by collaborating with the leading music label companies in India, and across the globe.

"Our partnership with Times Music is one such step to bolster our music library and give wings to our creator's creativity," Berges Malu, Director, ShareChat, said in a statement.

Times Music is home to a music library that represents Bollywood, spiritual, indie, pop, rock and other non-film music genres.

Speed Records, which boasts of largest market share in Punjabi music, has some of the top Punjabi hits like "Lamberghini" and "Mann Bharrya", among others.

ShareChat last month announced music licensing deal with Saregama.

Currently, ShareChat and Moj together have a huge base of over 240 million monthly active users (MAUs).

The social media venture late last month announced closure of a new funding round of $40 million.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Police in Florida have released dramatic body camera footage showing the moment officers rescued a woman who they say was being held hostage by her ex-boyfriend following a kidnapping.

Tampa Police Chief Brian Dugan said that shortly before 6am on Sunday, Tyre Snead, 24, entered the home of his ex-girlfriend while she was asleep in her bed, woke her up at gunpoint and demanded money, rifled through her purse and forced her into her car, which he had stolen from her the day before.

According to police, Snead then drove the woman to his apartment and held her there against her will for more than four hours.

The suspect, Tyre Snead, 24, locked his door after seeing police outside, forcing officers to use a battering ram

Officers were able to track down the suspect and arrived at his residence just after 10.20am that morning.

As police were in the process of evacuating the next-door apartment, Chief Dugan said Snead opened his front door and immediately shut it after seeing the cops.

'Tampa police, hands in the air!' officers shout as they pull out their service weapons and train them on Snead's apartment, as seen in the newly released body camera video.

Snead refuses to obey the commands and locks his front door, prompting officers to use a battering ram to force it open.

The victim (pictured) was rescued by police after spending four hours in captivity inside Snead's apartment

Snead crawled out of the apartment and was immediately taken into custody by officers

Inside, they see the suspect and the victim in a back room and order them to come out with their hands in the air.

'Crawl to me right now, both of you, on your hands and knees,' an officer commands.

The female victim emerged from the apartment first and was whisked away to safety.

Snead came out next and was arrested on charges of robbery, home invasion, kidnapping, false imprisonment, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, carjacking and grand theft.

Snead was arrested on charges of robbery, home invasion, kidnapping, false imprisonment, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, carjacking and grand theft (pictured in his new mugshot, left, and a previous mugshot, right). He has a prior criminal record in Hillsborough County

'This was a scary moment for the victim, who is doing OK,' the police chief stated. 'I want to thank the men and women of the Tampa Police Department for doing what we do every day to protect the citizens of Tampa.'

Snead is being held in the Hillsborough County Jail on $1.3million bond.

Snead has a prior criminal record in the county that includes charges of marijuana possession and possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving without a license.
Peii Chen, PhD, Senior Research Scientist at Kessler Foundation The stress of caring for stroke survivors can affect the mental and physical health of caregivers and lead to decline in quality of life." Peii Chen, Kessler Foundation

Researchers at Kessler Foundation are conducting a study in family caregivers of stroke survivors, using an ecological momentary assessment method to collect data on caregivers behavior and experience in real-time, real-life settings. Peii Chen, PhD, senior research scientist in the Center for Stroke Rehabilitation Research, is the principal investigator for the pilot study, Ecological Momentary Assessment for Burden and Stress among Stroke Caregivers, which is funded by the New Jersey Health Foundation.

The stress of caring for stroke survivors can affect the mental and physical health of caregivers and lead to decline in quality of life. These negative effects can be exacerbated when recovery is complicated by spatial neglect, a common but hidden disability that affects 30% to 50% of survivors. Spatial neglect increases the risk for falls, prolongs hospitalization, and impedes rehabilitation outcomes, explained Dr. Chen, and complicates the job of caregiving provided by family members. Documenting stress levels and triggers is essential to developing interventions that lower stress and burden among family caregivers.

Instead of relying on traditional methods of self-reporting, Dr. Chens study uses a technology-based experience sampling method (ESM) to record users experiences as they occur naturally in daily life. The study incorporates a platform by ExpiWell that is useful for creating studies in clinical populations and collecting data via ESM. The platforms mobile app enables caregivers to enter their experiences in real time during everyday activities, avoiding the biases inherent in self-reporting. Participants in Dr. Chens study receive prompts to use the mobile app to record their experiences four times a day for one week.

By facilitating the science of studying what people do, feel, and think in their day-to-day lives, ESM is emerging as a powerful tool for researchers in many fields, according to David Torres, PhD, CEO of ExpiWell. Using ESM increases external validity, an important consideration for researchers. Less reliance on memory provides a more accurate picture of an individuals daily experiences, said Dr. Torres, and with repeated measures over time, assessment error is reduced. With the app, researchers also gain the ability to collect images, video, and audio, greatly expanding the possibilities for data collection.

Dr. Chen plans to expand her research into stress reduction for caregivers. She sees potential for ESM in other areas of rehabilitation research as well. This approach is promising for studies of other populations, especially those with cognitive issues that hinder treatment for stress and anxiety, she said. We foresee the ability to manage the symptoms of stress remotely by implementing real-time intervention strategies through smart technologies like ExpiWell.

About ExpiWell, Inc.

ExpiWell was created by leading social scientists at Purdue University and is powered by the latest in Experience Sampling Methodology. ExpiWell provides researchers with cutting-edge mobile app technology alongside advance data visualizations and a participant marketplace. ExpiWell technology allows leaders to send pulse assessments to understand what their community is thinking, feeling, and doing in real-time. To learn more, visit: http://www.expiwell.com

About Kessler Foundation

Kessler Foundation, a major nonprofit organization in the field of disability, is a global leader in rehabilitation research that seeks to improve cognition, mobility, and long-term outcomes -- including employment -- for people with neurological disabilities caused by diseases and injuries of the brain and spinal cord. Kessler Foundation leads the nation in funding innovative programs that expand opportunities for employment for people with disabilities. For more information, visit KesslerFoundation.org.

For more information, or to interview an expert, contact:

Carolann Murphy, 973.324.8382, CMurphy@KesslerFoundation.org.
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Linkedin (Agence France-Presse) Paris, France  Thu, October 1, 2020 19:30 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c488697d 2 Business Google,media,Sundar-Pichai,publisher Free

Google plans to invest $1 billion on partnerships with news publishers worldwide to develop a "Showcase" app to highlight their reporting packages, CEO Sundar Pichai said in a statement Thursday.

"This financial commitment -- our biggest to date -- will pay publishers to create and curate high-quality content for a different kind of online news experience," Pichai said.

Google has locked horns with publishers repeatedly in recent years over its reluctance to pay for displaying articles, videos and other content in its search results, which has become a vital path for reaching viewers as print subscriptions fade.

It is currently in a standoff with several European media groups, including Agence France-Presse, over its refusal to comply with a new EU law governing digital copyrights.

The US giant says it should not have to pay to display pictures, videos or text snippets alongside search results, saying it drives hundreds of millions of visits to publishers' websites each month.

It also points to millions of euros invested to support media groups in other ways, including emergency funding during the Covid-19 crisis.

Pichai said Google had already signed up almost 200 publications in several countries, including Der Spiegel in Germany and Brazil's Folha de S. Paulo, but the list lacked any from the United States or France.

Google News Showcase, he said, will highlight "the editorial curation of award-winning newsrooms to give readers more insight on the stories that matter, and in the process, helps publishers develop deeper relationships with their audiences."

The new product would be available first on Google News via its Android platform and later on Apple's iOS, and eventually be added to search results and Google's Discover feed of tailored content for users.

"It will start rolling out today to readers in Brazil and Germany, and will expand to other countries in the coming months where local frameworks support these partnerships," Pichai said.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. Deputy Editor in Chief of the Russian Dozhd TV channel Dmitry Yelovsky came under Azeri artillery strikes in the town of Martuni as Azerbaijani forces bombarded the civilian settlements of Artsakh.

The TV channel issued a statement saying that Yelovsky escaped unharmed and is now in a bomb shelter.

Other journalists from both Armenia and other countries were reporting from the scene when the attack happened. They were filming the damages to the local homes that were hit by Azerbaijani artillery strikes earlier.

Reporters of the French Le Monde newspaper and a cameraman of the ARMENIA TV Channel were wounded in the Azeri bombing.

Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan
Lennard Taylor gets routine flashbacks of dark clouds hovering over his head.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 30/9/2020 (479 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Lennard Taylor gets routine flashbacks of dark clouds hovering over his head.

Faced with the uncertainty of keeping his business running during COVID-19, the Winnipeg designer fell into a deep depression for weeks.

"I thought everything  my whole work of 14 years, all that I'd put in it  was all over, just like that," Taylor said Wednesday. "It took everything in me to pull myself out."

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES Fashion designer Lennard Taylor at his store in the Exchange District.

A certain amount of stress comes with the territory of running an independent enterprise. But several local business owners say the uncertainty of making ends meet during the coronavirus pandemic has had a significant effect on their mental health.

Recent figures from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business suggest 46 per cent of owners across the country are worried about the overwhelming stress of running their companies.

That's why the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce focused its annual small business forum Wednesday entirely on mental health and wellness, inviting leading experts to deliver live webinars to entrepreneurs in the city.

"I thought everything  my whole work of 14 years, all that I'd put in it  was all over, just like that. It took everything in me to pull myself out."  Lennard Taylor, Winnipeg designer

"The one thing I want everyone to know is that you're not alone," keynote speaker Dr. Bill Howatt told dozens of virtual attendees. "And the reason why I'm here today is because I personally experience several mental-health challenges every single day myself."

Howatt, who runs a top human resource consulting practice in Ottawa, is widely recognized for his expertise in providing strategies to manage the direct impact of mental health issues in the workplace.

His address Wednesday provided advice on coping mechanisms to ensure that independent business managers are not "falling prey to deep, regrettable burnout."

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES Loren Remillard, president and CEO of The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce.

His tips include making mental health an open topic among co-workers and employees, asking and actively seeking help "whenever needed, instead of when necessary" and making daily "micro-decisions" (such as going for a run instead of staying indoors after work).

He also talked about the pitfalls of "workaholism."

"It's easy to start measuring your personal worth with the amount of work you put in," he said.

"I certainly don't want you to believe that workaholism is the answer to solving these issues, because it's not  it's about taking the time to know that you're a human and that it's OK to struggle."

Chamber president and CEO Loren Remillard said one of Wednesday's attendees called afterward to thank him.

"They said thank you, not just for providing this information," he said, "but for doing our part to remove this stigma around such concerns that, really, we all face."

Remillard said it has become clear how traumatic life has become for business owners during the pandemic.

RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Wolseley Wool owner, Mona Zaharia and her son Josh Zaharia, in their store on Westminster Ave.: "It all took a big mental toll on us."

Wolseley Wool owner Mona Zaharia, who runs a yarn shop in Winnipeg with her son Josh and business partner Odessa Reichel, has had a tough few months.

"It all took a big mental toll on us because we hadn't ever faced anything like this before," she said, recalling several weeks of anxiety before moving their shop online to continue operations.

"Having my son to boost morale for our employees and the community of our customers calling us day in and day out to check in on us, really just saved us in the end."

Amanda Deroy Sheriff, who runs the Beauty Box by Sheriff on Ellice Avenue with her sisters and mother, said she worries the recent surge of COVID-19 cases in Winnipeg and new restrictions might mean "a second wave of mental-health issues that are still unresolved from the first time around."

"Honestly, the only thing that's been saving us has been our faith," she said. "It's the idea that no matter what, we will make it through this  that there will be light at the end of the tunnel.

"Because even in our worries and our fragile mental state, we're not alone."

MIKAELA MACKENZIE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Carla Deroy, owner of Beauty Box.

Twitter: @temurdur

Temur.Durrani@freepress.mb.ca
White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany began her press briefing on Thursday by touting the qualifications of Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett. And while the conservative federal judge has a lengthy list of accolades on her resume, she is not, as Ms McEnany falsely claimed, a Rhodes scholar.

"When you said Judge Barrett was a Rhodes scholar, I don't believe that is true," a reporter noted during the briefing, just moments after the claim was made.

Ms McEnany glanced at her notes and replied, "Well, that's what I have written here."

The reporter then pointed out that Ms Barrett actually attended Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee, where she received her undergraduate degree.

"Attended Rhodes College. So, my bad," the press secretary shrugged, acknowledging her mistake.

The Rhodes Scholarship is the oldest and arguably most prestigious international scholarship program, awarded to outstanding students from around the world to study at the University of Oxford in England. The Rhodes Scholarship and Tennessee's Rhodes College have no relation to one another.

The walk-back lit up social media, with some people pointing out that Fox News made the same error while reporting on Ms Barrett's nomination last week when an on-air graphic referred to her as a "Rhodes scholar."

President Donald Trump's selection of Ms Barrett as his nominee to fill the Supreme Court seat came just eight days after Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg died, and 38 days before the presidential election on November 3. Ms Barrett's confirmation hearing is set for October 12, but Democrats are fighting for a delay in the confirmation until the next president has been inaugurated.
As the state government scrambles to get a handle on a COVID-19 outbreak in Ocean County, another problem, potentially much greater, lurks on the horizon.

For the past month, New Jerseys coronavirus transmission rate has continued to slowly rise, raising questions about whether the state is seeing the start of the predicted and dreaded second wave start to roll onto its shores.

The problem is acute in Lakewood. Just in the past week, the town has seen 20% of its total number of coronavirus cases. Some private schools in the town have temporarily closed, and lines at Chemed, a local health center, were stretched over the weekend. Gov. Phil Murphy has sent the town a team of contact tracers and thousands of additional coronavirus tests.
The coronavirus lockdown has pushed human imagination and creativity to an unprecedented corner. Artists across the world are struggling to cope with the new restrictions of a post-COVID world. And one of the biggest impacts of the pandemic can be seen in the realm of performing arts including filmmaking and acting.

But nothing has ever stopped artists from creating art and it seems filmmakers are slowly starting to adapt.

On Wednesday, filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma released the trailer of his new film which has been shot entirely during the lockdown. All the film and television shootings were suspended from mid-March to avoid the spread of the virus.

Varma took to Twitter to unveil the trailer of the film, which he said is based on the pandemic. The film is directed by Agasthya Manju with Varma attached as a producer.

While taking a dig at other celebrities, Varma announced on social media that while others were busy filling social media posts with random activities during quarantine, Varma was busy shooting a film - and in complete compliance with social distancing norms.

But Varma wasnt the only one. Several filmmakers and artists around the world have used the coronavirus lockdown to create some interesting and potent films, shorts and series that have managed not only to adapt to the changing face of cinema but also reflect deeply reflect the anxious times we live in.

Here are three films/series that were shot during the lockdown that you should definitely try out, in case you were wondering how filmmaking looks post-COVID.

1. Homemade

Homemade is an Italian-Chilean quarantine anthology series produced by Netflix that hit the platform in June. The series is made of short films created by filmmakers and directors from across the world. Each story focuses on human aspects of the pandemic and how the lockdown has impacted people across the world, especially children. While some stories tickle the funny bone, others leave moving last impressions. Shot mostly indoors or using drones and pre-existing footage, each short film explores new techniques, styles and storytelling tropes that were previously undefined.

2. Host

Latest in the fresh genre of tech-horror films, The Host makes the transition to a post-COVID tech horror film shot entirely in lockown. Directed by the extremely talented Sundance and Berlinale alumnus Rob Savage, The Host depicts a bunch of friends who decided to participate in a digital" seance on a Zoom call, only to find out that evil spirits love the internet just as much as we do. The brilliantly shot film used the limitations of lockdown and turns it around using bare-minimum technology to create an extremely savvy, smart, and genuinely scary film. A must watch for horror fans.

3. C U Soon

This one comes from a closer home. Created in just the span of 22 days by Malayalam director Mahesh Narayanan, C U Soon was one of the first lockdown films released in India after the government announced a total lockdown on March 25, 2020. A thriller made in the digital age, the film has almost entirely been shot using an iPhone inside six apartments and fully uses the limitations of the lockdown to its advantage while offering a gripping plot and a peek into relationships in the modern age. The film released on Amazon Prime.

4. Strasbourg 1518

This surreal, confrontational TV short made by Under the Skin director Jonathan Glazer for BBC is a one-of-a-kind experience. Based on a mysterious dance epidemic", known in history as the Dancing Plague" broke out in 1518 in Strasbourg and areas of present-day France. It apparently started when a woman in Strasbourg took to the streets one day and began to dance. As many as 50 to 400 people reportedly danced for days on end, causing physicians to term it a disease. Set and choreographed to Mico Levus high-intensity electronic music, Glazers adaption brings to formidable life the anxieties and fears of isolation as well as the underlying menace of the pandemic.
Chairman of the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar people Refat Chubarov has called on the Ukrainian authorities to help return to their homeland 100 Ukrainian women and children from the Syrian refugee camp Al-Hawl.

"It seems to me that there is no political decision for further steps. I just don't understand the attitude of the Office of the President of Ukraine, I speak openly. I don't want to say banal things that the life of every person is priceless. I applaud very much when we, as a state, do everything to save 5,7,10 people ... But once again I want to say that when people find themselves in conditions where their lives are in danger, we must be equally obligated and responsible. I do not see it at all from the side of the President's Office," Chubarov said at an online conference on Thursday.

He noted that the Mejlis tried to work on the return of refugees from territories such as Syria "in office mode" so as not to harm the people who turned to them for help. However, since August last year, this work slowed down, and then stopped, while the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar people receives two or three appeals for help every week.

"As of May 2019, we compiled a list of 72 people, of which 43 were minor children from birth to 17 years old. We realized that this problem is gaining such proportions that it is urgent to involve the Ukrainian state. There were relevant appeals to state bodies," explained the chairman of the Mejlis.

Chubarov added that as of May 2019, there were about 73,000 people in the camp, of which 94% are women and children. He noted that, according to sources, there are now more than 85,000 people in Al-Hawl.

"I would like the Ukrainian real power, the one that rules Ukraine today, that exercise all powers on the basis of the Constitution and the laws of Ukraine, so that it fulfills its powers in this sphere too. I cannot agree that when we save citizens, they must be divided into classes," Chubarov pointed out.
When looking back on the US presidential debate we witnessed this week, do you think it'll be remembered as: a moment that will live on in history; that thing where Joe Biden called Donald Trump "Putin's puppy": the worst television programming since I Wanna Marry Harry?

Really, you have to go with the puppy quote. Particularly since it was about the nicest thing either of them said.

Trump had painted the debate as a virtual death sentence for Biden, who he strongly suggested was too old, at 77, to survive so much pressure. But Biden held up pretty well. Meanwhile Trump did a terrific imitation of a 74-year-old toddler up past his bedtime.

Maybe the President figured if he yelled, interrupted and made nasty faces all night long it might trigger some kind of fainting spell in his opponent. If so, the plot boomeranged. I'll bet there are a whole lot of voters wandering around now saying: "Wow, if Biden could stand all that time being yowled at by Trump, he'd definitely have no problem handling a bloodthirsty dictator with nuclear warheads."
Irish SMEs have lost more than 10bn in revenue as a result of the economic disruption caused by Covid-19, according to new estimates by the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI).

In a financial stability note published today, the CBI estimated revenue shortfalls across the SME sector range between 10.3bn and 11.7bn, putting many small businesses in financial distress.

While the bank said that many of these firms will be viable over the medium term, additional loan forbearance and restructuring may be required to help them trade through the current disruption.

It said that businesses could cover their shortfalls with a combination of cash reserves, credit facilities, new borrowing, cost cuts, and government support such as grants, reliefs and guaranteed loans. The report noted that wage subsidies alone will provide more than 5bn in fiscal support to SMEs by March 2021

The Central Bank warned, however, that policymakers should "prepare for the likelihood that some SMEs are unlikely to survive this shock".

The report was published the day after system-wide payment breaks for SME loans expired, leaving firms to negotiate any further lender support on a case-by-case basis.
A former Victorian minister has accused Premier Daniel Andrews of the 'biggest public policy disaster in Australian history' over the handling of his state's coronavirus outbreak in a scathing opinion piece.

Adem Somyurek was sacked as minister for local government and small business by Mr Andrews in June following a 60 Minutes expose on his alleged Labor branch stacking. Mr Somyurek later resigned from the party.

The Turkish-born politician has since launched an attack on the Victorian premier, writing the 'buck stops with him' in an opinion piece published in The Herald Sun.

Mr Somyurek said he shares responsibility for the deaths of more than 780 Victorians because he was working as a minister when the Victorian government decided to use private security guards in hotel quarantine.

Adem Somyurek was sacked in June as the minister for local government and small business, following a 60 Minutes expose on his alleged Labor branch stacking.

'Not because I was part of a collective cabinet decision-making process, but because I failed to insist the premier comply with a proper cabinet process,' he wrote.

Victoria's deadly second wave of coronavirus infections can be traced back to outbreaks at two Melbourne hotels used in the quarantine program.

The embattled program was subject to an inquiry before retired judge Jennifer Coate, who will hand down a report on November 6.

Mr Somyurek claimed the 'decision-making processes of the executive and the potential intermediary role played by their staff' was not in evidence before the inquiry.

'As the only former minister not constrained by party discipline, it is in the public interest that I attempt to shed light on how we got into such a mess, with so much pain and destruction for so many Victorians,' he wrote.

The former minister claimed Mr Andrews had been 'lucky' until the bungled hotel quarantine program came to light.

The Turkish-born politician has since launched an attack on the Victorian premier (pictured), writing the 'buck stops with him' in an opinion piece published in The Herald Sun

Mr Somyurek wrote that the premier decreed the use of private security guards for the program, 'without any cabinet decision at all'.

He said quarantine is a federal matter and Mr Andrews did not appear to allocate the portfolio responsibility to another minister, which means 'the ministerial responsibility buck stops with him'.

Mr Somyurek said the premier had been mentored by Legislative Council, Gavin Jennings - who retired from Parliament in mid-March.

Without the 'calming guidance' of Mr Jennings, Mr Somyurek said 'the result is the biggest public policy disaster in Australian history'.

A man and a woman in face masks hold hands as they walk in front of Flinders Street Station in Melbourne on September 20

The former minister concluded by writing the premier's government is 'centralised and micromanaged', adding that 'talented ministers lack autonomy'.

Mr Somyurek previously wrote another opinion piece for The Australian, where he slammed Melbourne's lockdown curfew.

Mr Somyurek said Mr Andrews, who hails from Labor's Socialist Left faction, had little regard for the economic cost of his Stage Four lockdowns.

'The loss of civil rights and economic damage are just collateral damage,' he said.

'The government has encroached on our lives in ways unimaginable only a few months ago.'

On Thursday, Victoria recorded 15 new cases of coronavirus and two more fatalities, bringing the state's death toll to 800 and the national figure to 888.
The Amsterdam office of global law firm Greenberg Traurig, LLP will add to its Corporate/M&A team senior associate Ellen de Jong  Van den Bogaard as from 1 October. She joins the team from the Dutch Ministry of Justice and Security, where she worked for more than a decade.

Ellen de Jong  Van den Bogaard has more than 15 years of experience in the legal market and specialises in European and Dutch procurement law and contract law. She focuses on the formation of contracts and disputes related to the performance of these contracts.

Following years of commitment to the public sector, I look forward to using my knowledge and experience with complex cases in Greenberg Traurigs dynamic and international work environment, Ellen said. This is an entrepreneurial law firm located in the heart of Amsterdam that experiences strong growth, offers a pleasant working atmosphere and is all around perfectly in line with my personality and ambitions. In short, Greenberg Traurig offered me an opportunity I simply had to accept!.

Greenberg Traurigs Amsterdam managing shareholders Cees van Oevelen and Thomas van der Vliet commented they are delighted welcoming Ellen to the firm, in their joint statement: The development of our law firm is in full swing! Ellen has an extensive background in civil law as well as unique knowledge of procurement law, so her joining us is a new and important step in expanding our Corporate/M&A team.

Most recently, the team was expanded with the addition of prominent M&A and Private Equity partners Bas Vletter and Herald Jongen, and with Banking & Finance partner Sabine Schoute. Greenberg Traurig Amsterdam employs about 50 lawyers, tax specialists, and (candidate) civil-law notaries, and more than 15 of them are part of the Corporate/M&A team.

Greenberg Traurig Amsterdam

Greenberg Traurig Amsterdam is an integrated part of Greenberg Traurig, LLP, an international law firm with more than 2,200 attorneys, tax specialists and civil-law notaries, with 40 offices throughout the world. The Amsterdam office opened its doors in 2003 and was Greenberg Traurigs first branch outside of the US.

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LONDON - Fight of his life: Assange extradition verdict due in 2021

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange will likely spend the rest of 2020 inside a British prison cell before finding out whether he can be sent to the United States to face espionage charges, the judge in his extradition hearing said Thursday.

After hearing nearly four weeks of evidence at Londons Old Bailey courthouse, District Judge Vanessa Baraitser said she would deliver her decision on whether to grant a U.S. extradition request for Assange at 10 a.m. on Jan. 4. Assange is fighting extradition.

The judges ruling wont necessarily end the proceedings. Whichever side loses is expected to appeal. Theres also the possibility of a change in U.S. policy should Joe Biden defeat President Donald Trump in the Nov. 3 U.S. presidential election.

Unless any further application for bail is made, and between now and the 4th of January, you will remain in custody for the same reasons as have been given to you before, Baraitser told Assange, who was sitting behind a security screen at the back of the hearing courtroom.

The judge previously denied Assange bail over fears he is a flight risk. Assange jumped bail in 2012 when he sought asylum at the Ecuadorian Embassy in London, where he stayed for seven years before being evicted and arrested. He has been in custody at Belmarsh prison in London since April 2019 and is expected to appear in court via video link every 28 days between now and the Jan. 4 ruling.

U.S. prosecutors have indicted the 49-year-old Assange on 17 espionage charges and one charge of computer misuse over WikiLeaks publication of secret American military documents a decade ago largely relating to the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Following the adjournment on Thursday, Stella Moris, Assanges fiancee and the mother of his two young children, said, Julian and I would like to thank everyone for the kindness that has been shown over the past few weeks.

Its a fight for Julians life, a fight for press freedom and a fight for the truth, Moris said outside the court.

Now that lawyers have finished presenting evidence, Assanges defence team has asked for another four weeks to submit its closing argument. That will be followed two weeks later by the closing argument of the lawyers prosecuting on behalf of the U.S. government.

The judge has an abundance of evidence to trawl through in a hearing that was delayed by the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. Except for an early virus exposure scare and occasional outbursts from the usually face-masked Assange, the hearing proceeded smoothly.

The charges against Assange carry a maximum sentence of 175 years in prison. Lawyers acting on behalf of the U.S. government say Assange committed serious crimes that put peoples lives in danger, allegations his fiancee disputed.

Under oath, the prosecution concedes that it has no evidence that a single person has ever come to any physical harm because of these publications, Moris said. Let me repeat that: there is no evidence that a single person has ever come to any physical harm because of these publications.

Assanges defence team argued he is entitled to First Amendment protections for the publication of leaked documents that exposed U.S. military wrongdoing and that the extradition request was politically motivated.

The London court heard from an array of witnesses, who pronounced on issues of huge importance and substance, such as the freedom of the press and government-sanctioned torture.

Julian Assanges actions, which have been characterized as criminal, are actions that expose power to sunlight, renowned U.S. linguist and scholar Noam Chomsky said.

Other witnesses relayed more shadowy  and sometimes comic  matters of intrigue during his time at WikiLeaks and at the Ecuadorian Embassy,

According to one witness, Assange binge-watched the suicide of the former Bosnian Croat general, Slobodan Praljak, at a U.N. court three years ago.

Defence lawyers said Assange was suffering from wide-ranging mental health issues, including suicidal tendencies, that could be exacerbated if he is placed in inhospitable prison conditions in the U.S. They said Assanges mental health deteriorated while he took asylum inside the embassy and that he was diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder.

His legal team argued that Assange would very likely face solitary confinement in the U.S. immediately that would put him at a heightened risk of suicide. They also said that if convicted, Assange would most likely be sent to the notorious ADX Supermax prison in Colorado, a facility labeled by a former warden as a fate worse than death and inhabited by the likes of Unabomber Ted Kaczynski and Mexican drug lord Joaquin El Chapo Guzman.

Lawyers acting on behalf of the U.S. government argued that Assanges mental state was not as poor as described and said he wouldnt be subject to improper conditions before or after any trial.

Assange has attracted the support of high-profile figures, including actress Pamela Anderson and rapper M.I.A. The dissident Chinese contemporary artist Ai Weiwei also staged a silent protest outside the court.

Daniel Ellsberg, perhaps the most famous whistleblower in living memory, argued that they had very comparable political opinions.

The 89-year-old, widely credited for helping to bring about an end to the Vietnam War through his leaking of the so-called Pentagon Papers in 1971, said the American public needed urgently to know what was being done routinely in their name, and there was no other way for them to learn it than by unauthorized disclosure.

There are clear echoes between Assange and Ellsberg, who leaked over 7,000 pages of classified documents to the press, including The New York Times and The Washington Post. He was subsequently put on trial on 12 charges in connection with violations of the Espionage Act, which were punishable by up to 115 years in prison. The charges were dismissed in 1973 because of government misconduct against him.

Assange will be hoping that developments within the U.S. government over the coming weeks will lead to a similar outcome for him  before any judgment from the London court.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. Artsakh authorities say the situation at the line of contact with Azerbaijan was relatively calm overnight September 30-October 1.

For the first time since the Azerbaijani attacks began on September 27, there was mostly relative calm last night along the entire frontline, with the exception of several firefights, Artsakh presidential spokesperson Vahram Poghosyan said at a news briefing on October 1.

103 servicemen of the Artsakh military have been killed in the attacks since September 27. Over 120 troops are wounded. 7 civilians were also killed in different cities of Artsakh as Azeri forces bombarded towns.

According to latest reports, the Azeri forces lost more than 920 servicemen in the their offensive operations with more than 2100 wounded. The Azeris have also lost 84 UAVs, 7 gunships, 166 tanks and armored equipment, 1 warplane and 1 Smerch launcher.

Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan
Seventeen years after it was born with the help of CIA seed money, the secretive big data and surveillance company Palantir Technologies offered its stock to public investors for the first time on Wednesday, a long-anticipated move that will bring public scrutiny to one of tech's most secretive start-ups.

The direct listing on the New York Stock Exchange was one of the most hotly anticipated tech IPOs since the debuts of Slack and Uber, giving investors the chance to capitalise on a business that has grown by almost a third each year since 2009. So far, it is largely seen as a successful listing: Palantir stock started trading at $US10 per share  higher than its earlier reference price of $US7.25 per share  and closed up 31 per cent at $9.50.

Of greater significance is the way in which the public offering will lift the veil of secrecy around the company's technology and finances. The first financial filings shared with investors ahead of the offering revealed Palantir's business is concentrated among a handful of loyal customers, raising questions about whether it can scale up the same way as other tech outfits.

Peter Thiel's Palantir has had a successful trading debut.

The records show that Palantir has just 125 corporate and government customers, a relatively small number for a large, publicly-traded tech company. Two-thirds of its revenue comes from its top 20 customers, raising concerns that it could lose business as long-running government contracts are renegotiated. It generated an average revenue per customer of $US24.8 million ($34.6 million) last year.
Microsoft Corp. unveiled the cheapest-ever model of its Surface laptop, aiming to take a larger share of the lucrative notebook computer market by targeting students and budget shoppers.

The Surface Go Laptop, starting at $549, is smaller and lighter than the companys other notebooks and has a fingerprint scanner to log in. The device comes in three metallic finishes  ice blue, platinum and a pinkish-gold color that Microsoft calls sandstone, and has 13 hours of battery life and an Intel Corp. processor. Customers can pre-order Thursday ahead of the laptops availability on Oct. 13, Surface Vice President Pete Kyriacou said.

Microsoft is releasing its second laptop, expanding the Surface product line in the traditional notebook-computer market after starting off by pioneering a different type of device -- the two-in-one or detachable tablet, which consists of a touch-screen that separates from a keyboard. Apple Inc.s cheapest laptop is the $999 MacBook Air, while Google-software based Chromebooks from various manufacturers start at about $250 for a decent model. Google's Pixelbook Go, that companys lower-end laptop, retails for $650.

The software maker uses the Surface business to showcase its Windows and Office programs and to experiment with different hardware designs. Microsoft has a far smaller position in the notebook market than the detachable-tablet space, where its No. 2 behind Apple. In the June quarter, Microsoft sold more than 1.61 million detachable machines and 245,934 laptops, according to IDC. The laptop market is a far larger prize, worth nearly $44 billion in the June period, compared with less than $10 billion for detachable tablets, IDC said.

In the year ended June 30, Surface sales rose by 8%, or $457 million, Microsoft said in a filing, without specifying total revenue. Thats a slower rate than the 23% increase the year before. The company reported $6.46 billion in devices revenue for the year, a metric that includes Surface devices, as well as mice and keyboards.

The Redmond, Washington-based company also unveiled a new Surface Pro X, an update to its detachable tablet device that runs a custom chip developed with Qualcomm Inc. and using ARM Ltd.s technology. The new model is faster and gets 15 hours of battery life, said Robin Seiler, a Surface vice president, in a video shared with reporters.

Microsoft will also start selling Surface in eleven new European markets: Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia.

This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.

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Family Dentist, Dr. Jaci Campo, Joins Leedy Dental in Abilene, TX Already a well-equipped team, with the addition of Dr. Campo Leedy Dental is thrilled to expand their capabilities, allowing them to treat more patients from their state-of-the-art practice in Abilene, TX.

Dr. Jaci Campo has joined Leedy Dental, a comprehensive family dentistry practice. Originally from West Texas, Dr. Campo has joined the team at Leedy Dental that also includes Dr. Robert Leedy, Dr. Sara Chen, and Dr. Albert Park. Already a well-equipped team, with the addition of Dr. Campo Leedy Dental is thrilled to expand their capabilities, allowing them to treat more patients from their state-of-the-art practice in Abilene, TX.

Dr. Campo attended Lubbock Christian University where she received her Bachelor of Science in Biology. During this time, she also attended several medical mission trips in Peru where she discovered her passion for dentistry and love for helping the underserved. Shortly after leaving Lubbock, Dr. Campo attended the University of Texas Health Science Center School of Dentistry in San Antonio where she earned her Doctorate of Dental Surgery (D.D.S) degree.

Since obtaining her degree and becoming a dentist, Dr. Campo strives to stay at the forefront of the most state-of-the-art dental technology and provide comfortable, comprehensive, and personalized dental care. This desire further solidifies the reason why Dr. Campo has chosen to join Leedy Dental, as the practice offers technologically advanced and inventive dental treatments, digital imaging, and minimally to non-invasive services in a modern, welcoming, and family friendly environment. Dr. Campo is excited to join the Leedy Dental team and to be back in West Texas.

Combined, the team of general dentists and prosthodontists at Leedy Dental have over three decades of experience. They offer services such as dental crowns and bridges, dental implants, and cosmetic dentistry, including treatments for a complete smile makeover. Book an appointment today with Leedy Dental in Abilene, TX by calling 325-268-0013 or visit http://www.leedydental.com.

About the Practice

Leedy Dental is a comprehensive dental practice located in Abilene, TX that specializes in full mouth rehabilitation and implant dentistry, as well as personalized dental care and cosmetic services. Drs. Robert Leedy, Sara Chen, Albert Park, and Jaci Campo, the team of experienced dentists and prosthodontists, are skilled in treating patients with dental phobias and those with severe dental problems. Their state-of-the-art practice is equipped with advanced and innovative technologies, an in-office dental laboratory, sedation services, and dedicated surgical suites for dental implant treatment. The practice founder, Dr. Leedy has over 35 years of experience treating patients with dental conditions that most dentists cannot fix, helping them achieve life-long health and confidence. Dr. Leedy and his team remain at the forefront of dental care through advanced training and continuing education to provide the most specialized and modern treatments for their patients. To learn more about the life-changing services provided at Leedy Dental, visit http://www.leedydental.com or call the Abilene, TX practice at 325-268-0013.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 01, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mission Ready Solutions Inc. (Mission Ready or the Company) (TSXV: MRS) is pleased to announce the appointment of Buck Marshall as President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Company, effective immediately. To facilitate this change, James Marks has relinquished his role as interim Chief Executive Officer of the Company, and concurrently been appointed to the position of Chairman (Chairman) of the Companys board of directors (the Board), effective immediately. James Marks joined the Companys board of directors in June 2018 and has been instrumental in the Companys forward development, most recently lending his expertise as CEO on an interim basis. Management wish to express their sincere appreciation to Mr. Marks for his unwavering dedication to the Company, and welcome him in his new capacity as Chairman of the Board.



James Marks, Chairman of Mission Ready, states The Mission Ready team is very excited to welcome Buck Marshall aboard as President and CEO. Buck brings far more to Mission Ready than the sum of his many professional talents and successes; he has the character and values of a thoughtful, energetic servant-leader. We won when we found Buck, and he agreed to lead us forward.

Mr. Marshall brings an impressive history of high-level management experience to the Company, including 16 years of service within the commercial banking industry. During the past 12 years, Mr. Marshall has worked in tandem with U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) lending groups  through which he has developed an intimate knowledge of SBA programs  equipping him to efficiently navigate the credit standards and requirements for working with the US Government, and to leverage the specific programs available to enable small businesses to gain access to capital when conventional access is limited.

Most recently, as Market President of Northwest Bank (Northwest), Mr. Marshall worked alongside Northwests board of directors and division managers to develop policies and procedures that would ensure the successful realization of its long-term growth strategies and corporate vision. Additionally, Mr. Marshall presided over a significant restructuring and strategic turnaround within Northwest, while growing the team over a geographically dispersed region. As the primary contact for all interactions with the U.S. Small Business Administration for exams/audits, program changes and delegated authority renewals, Mr. Marshall introduced and implemented a host of operational improvements using lean methodologies to drive efficiency and reduce costs.

A member of the National Association of Government Guaranteed Lenders (NAGGL), Mr. Marshall holds a communications degree from Eastern Washington University and multiple specialized banking-industry certifications including a Certified Lenders Diploma. Mr. Marshall has helped hundreds of small businesses get the capital needed to grow their companies. Mr. Marshalls extensive nation-wide network of banking professionals provide for coveted access to a wide range of resources including government-guaranteed lending programs and conventional credit opportunities.

Mr. Marshall places a high value on the creation and implementation of effective and efficient policies and procedures that positively impact morale and productivity. Consistently recognized for improving operational efficiencies through innovative and logical approaches that ultimately reflect positively on the bottom line, Mr. Marshall excels in aligning a companys organizational objectives with their corporate vision, building revenue streams, achieving profitable growth, facilitating team collaboration, and developing integrated strategies.

About Mission Ready Solutions Inc.

Mission Ready specializes in providing comprehensive government contracting solutions through its privileged access to a host of government contracting vehicles including its Special Operational Equipment (SOE) Tailored Logistics Support (TLS) contract administered by the United States Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), and Multiple Award Schedule contracts administered by the United States General Services Administration (GSA).

Mission Readys wholly-owned subsidiary, Unifire, Inc. (Unifire), is one of six companies, globally, authorized to provide equipment and designated services under DLAs SOE TLS program. Unifire is a designated Small Business and an industry-leading manufacturer and distributor of over 1.5 million fire, military, emergency, and law enforcement products. As an incumbent awardee of the SOE TLS contract, with extensive knowledge and experience in providing solutions to the US Federal Government, Unifire utilizes its highly-efficient, scalable technology infrastructure to provide procurement solutions for program managers, military and federal contracting offices, base supply centers, and other governmental supply agencies.

Mission Ready trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol MRS.

For further information, visit MRSCorp.com or contact:

Investor Relations

T: 1.877.479.7778  Ext 5

E: IR@MRSCorp.com

Mission Ready Solutions Inc.

(Signed Buck L. Marshall)

Buck L. Marshall

President and Chief Executive Officer

Ph: +1 877.479.7778

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "expect", "intend", "estimate", "forecast", "project", "budget", "schedule", "may", "will", "could", "might", "should" or variations of such words or similar words or expressions. Forward-looking information is based on reasonable assumptions that have been made by Mission Ready Solutions Inc. as at the date of such information and is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Mission Ready Solutions Inc. to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Mission Ready Solutions Inc. does not undertake to update any forward-looking information that is included herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.
A member of the House of Representatives, representing Kaltungo/Shongom federal constituency in Gombe state, Hon. Simon Karu, has revealed the take home of each member in the green chamber, saying its up to N9.3 million.

The cost including the monthly salary and the office running cost.

Speaking Thursday in Abuja at a well attended event to mark Nigerias 60th anniversary, tagged: FixingNigeria at 60- Sustainable and efficient democracy: Issues on accountability and transparency in governance, the lawmaker however blamed constituents high demand on the cost.

Hon. Karu said: The official salary of a member, House of Representatives which I also receive monthly is N800,0000. I told you I was going to say it, why dont you wait for me to say it? The office running cost of a member of the House of Representatives is N8.5 million.

"Those of you who know, know that I said exactly what it is. The problem is what the constituents demand and when when you dont meet they begin to call you names.

Just before I walked to the stage I received three emails from my constituents demanding for money and demanding for jobs, when you dont it becomes an issue.

While disagreeing with the revelation, another serving lawmaker in the House of Representatives and the Chairman House Committee on Treaties, Hon. Osai Osai, told the audience to disregard the information.

Osai said: I have never received such salary since I came to the National Assembly and I have been in the National Assembly before him.

Speaking on how to fix Nigeria, a former Senator, Dino Melaye, said Nigerians need to reboot Nigeria because If you get the fight against corruption right every other things will be fixed.

Melaye also advocated for the establishment of National Budget Office to stop the problem of budget padding, saying the country will continue to have problem with budgeting until it creates such office in the National Assembly.

We need a National Budget Office. Nigeria is only country without such office and until we have it budget padding will not stop.

Meanwhile, a security analyst and Editor-In-Chief, Global Sentinel, Senator Iroegbu, also harped on the for political solutions to our security challenges.

Iroegbu noted that Nigerian security challenges has continued unabated due to structural defects in our security architecture and not necessarily a problem with out fighting forces.

"No matter the kind of budget we throw, if the political culture is corrupt, we can do nothing," he said.
MARYVILLE  State Sen. Rachelle Crowe, D-Glen Carbon, is lauding the Illinois State Police Division of Forensic Services new electronic system to allow survivors to track their sexual assault kits.

From my past professional experience as a prosecutor, I can attest to the importance of survivors having access to their cases progress, Crowe said. Sexual assault cases are time-sensitive, complicated and emotional, and this new system will support survivors through the grueling process.
A Ukrainian soldier was wounded as a result of an enemy grenade hit.

Ukraine says its military have reported 11 violations of the latest ceasefire by Russia-controlled armed groups in the Donbas warzone on Wednesday, September 30.

"In the past day, September 30, the Russian Federation's armed formations violated the ceasefire 11 times," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation (JFO) Command wrote on Facebook in an update as of 07:30 Kyiv time on October 1, 2020.

In particular, the enemy fired rifles near the town of Avdiyivka, as well as an automatic grenade launcher near the village of Novotroyitske.

Moreover, the enemy provoked the Ukrainian military with rifle shots near the village of Novo-Oleksandrivka. Three small arms and under-barrel grenade launcher shots were recorded near the town of Zolote, while hand-held anti-tank grenade launcher and rifles were employed near the village of Khutir Vilny in the evening.

In addition, the occupiers fired grenade launchers of various types near the villages of Zaitseve, Myronivsky, and Novotoshkivske.

"A Ukrainian soldier was wounded as a result of an enemy attack with the use of an under-barrel grenade launcher. He was provided medical assistance and rushed to a hospital," the JFO HQ said.

Since Thursday midnight, one ceasefire violation by the enemy with the use of an automatic grenade launcher has been recorded near the village of Stanytsia Luhanska.

Read alsoOSCE monitors report almost 1,400 ceasefire violations since latest truce announcementSoldiers with the Joint Forces, together with the rescuers of the State Emergency Service and representatives of forestry, continue their efforts to contain wildfires caused the day before by enemy armed provocations with the use of tracer bullets.

The situation is under full control of the Ukrainian military.

Donbas ceasefire: Background

Participants in the Trilateral Contact Group (Ukraine, Russia, and the OSCE) on the peace settlement in Donbas on July 22 agreed on a full and comprehensive ceasefire along the contact line from 00:01 on Monday, July 27.

The new ceasefire regime was enforced at 00:01 Kyiv time on July 27.

On the very first day of the newly-agreed truce, Russia's hybrid military forces mounted three attacks on Ukrainian positions in Donbas, eastern Ukraine. Ukraine has reported more such violations over the latest period.
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Linkedin Editorial Board (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Thu, October 1, 2020 08:20 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4858cdf 1 Editorial #Editorial,vaccine,COVID-19,pandemic,health-protocol Free

Indonesia clearly is betting on a vaccine as a quick fix to the debilitating COVID-19 pandemic. President Joko Jokowi Widodo asked his ministers Monday to prepare a detailed road map on the national COVID-19 vaccination program within two weeks, although it remains uncertain whether an effective and safe vaccine will be available anytime soon.

On Wednesday Jokowi reiterated his guarded optimism that between 170 and 180 million doses of vaccine would be available by the end of the year and mass vaccination could begin. The government will allocate about Rp 22 trillion (US$1.5 billion) for the vaccination program.

Indonesia has gone as far as China and the United Arab Emirates to secure a deal to import millions of doses of vaccine, while forging a cooperation with giant pharma companies from China and South Korea to produce COVID-19 vaccine at home. State pharmaceutical company Bio Farma, for example, will be ready to expand its capacity to 250 million doses per month in the first quarter of next year to produce a vaccine being developed by Chinas Sinovac. The candidate vaccine is now entering the final stage of human trials in Bandung, which will run until January next year.

The governments yearning for a vaccine, however, is risky as there is still a possibility the candidate vaccine will not pass the scrutiny of the Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM). Even World Health Organization Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has warned there is no guarantee that any of the COVID-19 candidate vaccines currently in development will work.

According to the World Health Organization, almost 200 vaccines for COVID-19 are currently in clinical and preclinical testing. History shows that vaccine development sometimes fails and sometimes succeeds.

Experts say the journey to a successful vaccine trial still has a long way to go and the process to secure a license will take time. Besides, many still do not know what the effects of the COVID-19 vaccine will be, and how effective the vaccine may be in ending the pandemic.

David Morens, senior adviser to Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases in the United States, describes the vaccine development as a blind trial, which may be successful at the beginning but end in failure.

Many studies have shown that antibodies formed after SARS-CoV-2 infection naturally do not last long and will disappear in 2 to 3 months. However, if a certain vaccine is successful and is used for the national immunization program, then the continuity of the program will depend on an adequate supply of the vaccine.

Vaccination is not the only way to end the pandemic. The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) outbreaks, which were also caused by a coronavirus, stopped without a vaccine.

Prevention remains the best medicine including in the fight against COVID-19. Rather than giving false hope, it would be better for the government to step up the campaign to prevent the spread of COVID-19 to the maximum.

Wearing a mask, handwashing and physical distancing are the mantras that have proven effective to keep most of us safe from the virus.
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Sharekhan's research report on Balkrishna Industries

Given the strong pickup in demand in July and August, BKT is likely to improve its earlier guidance of flat volume growth in FY2021; favourable currency movement and operating leverage would drive margin expansion. BKT is expected to continue outpacing the industry, driven by new product introduction, enhanced distribution network, and increased OEM business; BKT aims to double its global market share to 10%. We have raised our earnings estimates and rollover our multiple to FY2023 earnings. BKT has amongst the best financial metrices in the tyre industry with debt free at net level, robust return rations, and FCFF yield. BKT remains our preferred pick in the automotive space.

Outlook

We recommend Buy on Balkrishna Industries (BKT) with Price target of Rs 1,770; company to deliver strong 17% CAGR over FY20-23 period.

For all recommendations report, click here

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SEATTLE  An industrial property at 818 S. Dakota St. sold for slightly over $5.4 million, according to King County records.

The seller was 818 Dakota LLC, which acquired the property in 2005 for a bit under $2.6 million.





. . .
The Romanian Code of Talent platform, specialized in digitizing the "Learning & Development" and "Business Execution" processes, obtained a non-reimbursable financial assistance of almost 1 million euros from European funds, the company announced, in a statement sent to AGERPRES on Thursday.

The total value of the project "Code of Intelligent Talent - innovation in microlearning through the use of artificial intelligence" (MySmis Code: 129112) is about 1.4 million euros (6,816,925.11 lei), of which approximately 936,000 euros (4,549,174,32 lei) represents the volume of non-reimbursable financing, and about 466,000 euros (2,267,750 lei) the company's contribution. The project runs for a period of 24 months, between August 4, 2020 - August 3, 2022.

"The Code of Talent digital platform is based on four pillars. First, personalization: each user learns at their own pace. Second, learning is assisted, with users constantly guided by a trainer or expert. Thirdly, the application offers users the opportunity to communicate and learn collaboratively. And last but not least, the course units are structured in the form of 'missions' that actively involve users. It has long been known that these solutions, which turn the assimilation of often arid information into an attractive game, give excellent results.These characteristics increase the degree of involvement of the participants and lead to a completion rate of courses up to 10 times higher than in the case of conventional e-learning platforms. One of the major disadvantages of traditional e-learning solutions is the high dropout rate among users due to the long duration of the program, of the unattractive presentation or of the lack of a permanent feedback," note the representatives of the platform.

Since September 2018, Code of Talent operates as an independent company, and in the last three years the project has attracted funding worth half a million euros, while making its own investments of about 475,000 euros.

Code of Talent is a platform available on four continents, currently being delivered in 13 different languages. The platform won the "Best L&D" award at the 2019 HR Excellence Awards Gala for the Coca-Cola 3R Learning Challenge project. Currently, the solution is used by companies such as Coca-Cola, British American Tobacco, Banca Transilvania, Renault, Bosch, OTP Bank and many more.

The project is co-financed from the European Regional Development Fund through the 2014 - 2020 Competitiveness Operational Program, under the slogan "Competitiveness together".
In an interview with FBI agents, Brown had said he was on the naval base on the evening before Billie went missing, according to court documents. He said he had blacked out at some point and couldnt remember what he did for several days after that.
Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images Sarah Collins Rudolph

Nearly 60 years after a bomb planted by the Ku Klux Klan blinded her in one eye and killed her sister, Sarah Collins Rudolph has received a formal apology from the governor of Alabama.

Gov. Kay Ivey issued Rudolph, a survivor of the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing in Birmingham in 1963, a formal apology in a letter sent to her attorneys and obtained by the Washington Post.

Ivey called Sept. 15, 1963 one of the darkest days in Alabamas history.

Collins, who was 12 at the time, lost her 14-year-old sister Addie Mae Collins and friends Denise McNair, 11, Carole Robertson, 14, and Cynthia Wesley, 14, when the bomb exploded in the predominantly Black churchs basement.

While few can truly imagine what it was like to live through that tragic day, what Ms. Collins Rudolph has endured as a survivor is a testament to the Biblical belief that good does conquer evil, Ivey wrote.

Her letter came in response to one sent by Rudolphs attorneys that alleged that while the state didnt actually place the bomb, its governor and other leaders at the time played an undisputed role in encouraging its citizens to engage in racial violence, and asked for an apology and restitution for Rudolph, the Post reported.

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It is hard to put into words the pain Ive had to deal with, both physical and emotional, because of the acts of violent hatred and bigotry on that day, Rudolph wrote in a recent statement, according to the Post. They wanted to hurt me or kill me because Im Black. They bombed a church because it was a Black church. They murdered my sister and her friends because they were Black. It has taken decades to even begin to come to terms with this trauma. To have my suffering acknowledged and to receive an apology for what happened to me would help bring a sense of closure. I truly hope Governor Ivey will do the right thing.

Story continues

In her letter, Ivey acknowledged the claims, and specifically cited the fact that the state did not place the bomb as reason for why Alabama should not be held legally responsible.

RELATED: Kerry Washington, Oprah Winfrey & More Celebrities React to Breonna Taylor Indictment News

AP Photo/The Birmingham News Victims of the church bombing

Having said that, there should be no question that the racist, segregationist rhetoric used by some of our leaders during that time was wrong and would be utterly unacceptable in todays Alabama, she wrote.

The Republican governor continued, writing that Rudolphs family, as well as those of the victims, suffered an egregious injustice that has yielded untold pain and suffering over the ensuing decades  something that deserved an apology.

For that, they most certainly deserve a sincere, heartfelt apology  an apology that I extend today without hesitation or reservation, she wrote.

RELATED: Colin Kaepernick Says the NFLs Recent Social Justice Initiatives Are Propaganda

The church was a key civil rights meeting place, and became part of a campaign led by Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and local minister Fred Shuttlesworth to desegregate the city of Birmingham in early 1963, according to the Washington Post.

Local officials, however, responded with violence, and Gov. George Wallace even reportedly declared that What this country needs is a few first-class funerals. The attack served as a turning point for the civil rights movement, and the Civil Rights Act was signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson shortly after.

Rudolphs attorneys reportedly issued a statement saying they were gratified by Iveys acknowledgement of the egregious injustice their client has faced, and were awaiting future discussions about possible compensation to make up for pain, suffering and a lifetime of missed opportunities.
~Part of Thursdays Online with SSSD~

PHILIPSBURG  Graduates from Sundial, Milton Peters College VSBO, and St. Maarten Academy PSVE on St. Maarten have the possibility of continuing their education in St. Maarten, Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, the Netherlands, United States or Canada, but they have to be aware of what their options are and what it takes to be successful.

The Student Support Services Division (SSSD) of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth & Sport will be hosting a workshop entitled My PBL, PKL and TKL Education and Beyond to highlight the abovementioned.

This free workshop, which is the final workshop on Thursdays Online with SSSD, will be held online on October 8, 2020, from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM.

According to SSSD officials, many students in Voorbereidend Secundair Beroepsonderwijs (VSBO) or Preparatory Secondary Vocational Education (PSVE)  PBL, PKL, and TKL- often need clarity about their options after graduating. VSBO is offered at the Milton Peters College (PBL, PKL, and TKL streams) and at the Sundial School (PBL and PKL streams). PSVE is offered at the St. Maarten Academy PSVE (PBL and PKL streams). For many students or graduates of the VSBO/ PSVE secondary school systems on the island, the question of What is next? after their education, often poses a challenge.

With this workshop, the Student Support Services Division (SSSD) is aiming to show these students that there are many studies/educational opportunities for them, SSSD officials indicated. They added that students have to be determined and focused as well as have the aptitude to successfully complete the requirements at the next level.

The workshop is open to students in the last two years of the PBL, PKL, and TKL sections and recent graduates. Parents are also encouraged to attend this workshop to get an understanding of what the options are for their children who are being educated in these systems.

There are ways and means for these graduates to continue their studies if they wish, but all these different opportunities have specific requirements and the graduates should be aware of these requirements. Attendants of this workshop will also be explained some of the technicalities associated with moving from vocational to academic education as well as moving off-island to study.

Moving from one educational system may not be straightforward but it is possible and it is up to the student to take advantage of what is there and they do need to apply themselves, SSSD officials stated.

The My PBL, PKL and TKL Education and Beyond workshop will highlight both opportunities to study in English as well as in Dutch. Students are encouraged to register, in advance for the workshop so an invitation can be emailed to them, students can also click Join on the link on the Student Support Services Facebook page. If parents or students have any questions on these workshops, they can contact the Student Support Services Division at telephone 543-1235 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.

The Student Support Services Division (SSSD) provides services to students referred by the schools such as psychological services, counseling services, social work services, educational diagnostic services, speech-language pathology services. SSSD also provides general services such as career services, parent sessions and crisis response.
A number of Niagara properties have made the finals in the Ontario Home Builders Association annual Awards of Distinction program.

Judged by a panel of industry professionals from across Canada, the annual awards celebrate the best in residential construction, design, renovation and marketing.

The OHBA Awards of Distinction celebrates innovation and excellence in homebuilding, professional renovation, and sales and marketing in communities across the province, said Bob Schickedanz, association president.

The quality of entries this year was stellar considering the unique times we are facing.

The 2020 finalists include:

Marz Homes for South Coast Villages The Oceanridge in Crystal Beach and Mountainview Building Group for Saffron Estates Monroe in Fonthill are competing in the architectural design category.

Marz Homes Cape May, also in South Coast Village, is a finalist in the production built home category.

The attached multi-unit home category includes finalists Rinaldi Homes for Draper Creek in Welland and Silvergate Homes for Legends on the Green in Chippawa.

The Port Dalhousie Harbour Club is in the running in the mid-rise building category as well as the high- or mid-rise condo suite category.

Windrush Hill Construction is a finalist in the home renovation category for Ridgewood in the Glen in St. Catharines.

Winners will be announced in November during a virtual awards event.

The association is the voice of the residential construction industry in Ontario, representing 4,000 member companies organized into 27 local associations across the province.
Prashant Bhushan moved the Supreme Court on Thursday seeking review of the August 31 sentencing order to either pay nominal fine of 1 or face a three-month jail term and debarment from law practice for three years in the contempt case for his two tweets against the judiciary.

Senior lawyer Prashant Bhushan on Thursday filed a petition in the Supreme Court seeking review of its August 31 judgement imposing a fine of Re 1 on him in connection with criminal contempt of court case over his tweets.

Notably, Bhushan has already paid the fine of Re 1 but has decided to challenge his conviction in the matter. While paying the fine, Bhushan had made it clear that paying the fine in the registry did not mean that he accepted the Supreme Courts judgement.

Bhushan had, on September 14, filed a review petition in the Supreme Court against its judgement convicting him and imposing a fine of Re 1 on him for criminal contempt of court in the suo motu contempt case over his tweets.

Earlier, he had filed another plea in the top court seeking directions for an appeal against conviction in criminal contempt cases to be heard by a larger and a different bench.Bhushan was convicted and a fine of Re 1 was imposed on him by the Supreme Court in connection with a suo motu criminal contempt of court case over two of his tweets.

One of the tweets, posted on June 29, was related to his post on a picture of Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sharad Arvind Bobde on a high-end bike. In his second tweet, Bhushan had expressed his opinion on the role of the last four CJIs amid the state of affairs in the country.Meanwhile, the Supreme Court is also hearing another contempt of court case against Bhushan for his interview to a magazine in 2009 in which he was quoted as saying that half of the 16 former Chief Justices of India (CJIs) were corrupt.

ALSO READ: Another Hathras in UP, 22-yr old gang-raped, succumbs enroute to hospital

ALSO READ: Indias Covid-19 tally crosses 63 lakh-mark with 86,821 new cases in last 24 hours
STOCKHOLM, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- SyntheticMR announced today that they have signed an agreement with GE Healthcare to integrate their quantitative MRI solution SyMRI in GE's platform. As part of the agreement, GE Healthcare will integrate the new SyMRI offering into their platform to provide faster workflows, unique physiologic information, and objective decision support leveraging quantification, to their customers globally.

GE Healthcare currently sells a customized imaging solution, MAGiC, developed by SyntheticMR to their customers, which enables users to speed up their imaging workflow by generating multiple contrast-weighted images and parametric maps in a single five minute scan. With this agreement, they will also be able to offer customers the full functionality of the SyMRI product, called MAGiC Neuro, including tissue volumes, industry-first myelin-correlated volumes, and quantitative data of the patient.

"GE Healthcare is pleased to continue the great collaboration with SyntheticMR to address the growing needs of neuroradiology," says Jason Polzin, general manager of Global MR Applications. "MAGiC was the first offering from a vendor of a synthetic image generation and automated workflow tool integrated in the MR system. We believe MAGiC Neuro will further increase the clinical information and value that can be derived from a single MAGiC scan."

"This agreement is an important step forward in our collaboration with GE Healthcare," says Ulrik Harrysson, CEO SyntheticMR AB. "GE Healthcare has been an important partner to SyntheticMR since we first signed the license agreement in 2014, and this brings us closer together on a global level. I look forward to working with GE Healthcare to bring game-changing quantitative data and objective decision support to healthcare providers worldwide."

For additional information, please contact Ulrik Harrysson, CEO, SyntheticMR AB, +46 70 529 29 87 ulrik.harrysson@syntheticmr.com.

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/syntheticmr-ab/r/syntheticmr-signs-additional-collaboration-agreement-with-ge-healthcare-mr,c3190702

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Since President Obama nominated Merrick Garland to the Supreme Court in early 2016, there has been extensive discussion about the highest court and its precedent, size, and nominations. This debate accelerated into overdrive last week after the passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Presidents Trumps announcement that he intended to fill the seat with Judge Amy Coney Barrett. The origins and history of the Supreme Court suggest that reform and constant change are central to the courts character.The Constitution says very little about the Supreme Court. It determines that there should be an institution, but left it up to future leaders and generations to fill out the details : The judicial Power of the United States, shall be vested in one supreme Court, and in such inferior Courts as the Congress may from time to time ordain and establish.The first federal Congress set about establishing the federal judiciary in the Judiciary Act of 1789 . They created 13 federal districts, a chief justice, and five assistant justice positions for the Supreme Court. The 13 districts were divided into three circuits, administered twice per year by two justices and a district judge.President George Washington picked up the mantle and nominated individuals to these seats. He selected John Jay of New York as chief justice, and John Rutledge of South Carolina, James Wilson of Pennsylvania, William Cushing of Massachusetts, Robert H. Harrison of Maryland, and John Blair of Virginia. Washington considered a few factors when selecting justices. First, Washington insisted that court nominees had supported the new Constitution and, ideally, a strong federal government.For example, in October 1787, James Wilson gave a speech at a public meeting in Philadelphia supporting the proposed Constitution and arguing in favor of a strong executive. Washington read the speech in theand liked it so much that he sent the speech to David Stuart, a friend and editor, and asked Stewart to republish it. Appointing Wilson to the bench was the logical next step.By selecting justices who understood the importance of a powerful executive, Washington could be fairly confident his nominees would approve of his administrations policies  and events proved him right. In 1794, a rebellion broke out in western Pennsylvania over a whiskey excise tax. Washington decided to call up the local state militias to suppress the insurrection under a law passed in 1792 . The law authorized the president to use militias in the event of foreign invasion or domestic rebellion, but required the president to submit evidence to a Supreme Court justice that military force was required. In 1794, Secretary of State Edmund Randolph delivered the evidence of the rebellion to Justice James Wilson, who granted Washington approval to call up the Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, and Virginia militias.Second, Washington selected justices from many key states. By choosing justices that represented geographic and experiential diversity, the president worked to build emotional ties with the new federal government and foster nationalism among citizens across the country.Despite the Supreme Courts prestigious position today, 18th-century justices endured a very different experience. Justices received a salary, but the compensation was relatively low and most officials had to step away from their primary careers to serve on the bench. As a result, most justices took a financial hit to join the court. Furthermore, the position was not a cushy one. In order to attend circuit hearings in districts across the country, justices spent months away from their homes and families. They rode thousands of miles on dusty roads, were jostled in uncomfortable carriages, and slept in lackluster lodgings. Sometimes the food was rotten and the beds infested with bugs.Justices complained constantly about the conditions. In his circuit diaries , Chief Justice Jay noted that on Oct. 7, he arrived at Kinderhook Servts. and Horses at Shethers Taverntolerable. A few days later, he dined at the widow Wilcoxsa bad house. Justice Iredell agreed and wrote, I did thinkthat at least a temporary change should take place. I certainly however can no longer agree to be placed on the unequal and distressing journey upon which I have so long beenalthough I have some hopes Congress will amend the law in such a manner as to express the sense whether there will or will not be rotation.The relatively short tenures of justices on the bench also revealed their displeasure with the position. Most of the justices served fewer than 10 years before retiring and returning to their families. The president then struggled to fill the openings. Both Charles Cotesworth Pinckney and Edward Rutledge, two of Washingtons friends, turned down offers to be nominated to the court. They were two of many.In response to the justices complaints, Congress passed a Judicial Reform Act in 1801 that created a level of circuit courts to hear appeals. This level of courts also eliminated the unpleasant travel requirements imposed on the Supreme Court justices.Jefferson overturned this legislation in 1801 and reduced the court to five justices, but later generations adopted additional reforms . Congress expanded the court to seven justices in 1807, nine in 1837, and 10 in 1863. Although Congress reduced the court to seven justices during President Andrew Johnsons tempestuous administration to prevent the president from making unpopular appointments, it then expanded the court back to nine justices after Johnson left office. And of course, Senator Mitch McConnell ensured that the court would remain at eight justices for over a year from 2016 to 2017.So what does this history tell us about the institution? From the very beginning, the delegates to the Constitutional Convention left room for the courts ongoing evolution by leaving it up to Congress to determine the size and shape of the institution. Additionally, the magisterial Supreme Court of the 21st century is a far cry from the humble origins of 1789. Most members of the founding generation expected justices to serve relatively short tenures. The concept of justices that would serve lifetime appointments and be treated with unquestioned deference would have struck most 18th-century Americans as shockingly monarchical and aristocratic. Reform and ongoing change were much more in character with the judicial system envisioned by the founding generation.
Alvin Coffey took a wagon train to the California Gold Rush, hoping to mine enough gold to buy his and his family's freedom. But his enslaver double-crossed him.

Archy Lee lost his freedom when the California Supreme Court ruled Lee's former enslaver could reclaim his "property," even in a free state.

Robert Perkins built a successful mining supply business near Sacramento after his enslaver returned to Mississippi without him. Then he was arrested.

Bridget "Biddy" Mason was enslaved in San Bernadino. When her enslavers wanted to take her with them to Texas, she knew she had to make a move.

These are just some of the hidden stories of slavery in California that may soon be delved into after Calif. Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a law Wednesday that will establish a task force to study the state's role in slavery. The task force will make recommendations for reparations, a formal apology and how to educate the public about this history.

"This is an extremely important time for all of us, because California tries to lead the way in terms of civil rights," said Calif. Assemblywoman Shirley Weber -- who wrote and sponsored the bill -- in a signing ceremony on Zoom.

"California's rich diversity is our greatest asset, and we won't turn away from this moment to make right the discrimination and disadvantages that Black Californians and people of color still face," Newsom said.

The law is the first of its kind for a state and had bipartisan support. In February, the State Assembly passed a resolution apologizing for the state's role in sending Japanese immigrants and Japanese Americans to internment camps during World War II.

"California has come to terms with many of its issues, but it has yet to come to terms with its role in slavery," Weber said.

Though bipartisan, the law has its critics. William Darity Jr., a Duke economics professor and reparations expert, told the website Cal Matters that no single state could launch an action large enough to be called "reparations."

"I have a sense of proprietariness about the use of the term reparations, because I think people should not be given the impression that the kinds of steps that are taken at the state or local level actually constitute a comprehensive or true reparations plan," Darity said in Cal Matters. "Whatever California does perhaps could be called atonement, or it could be called a correction for past actions."

The law specifies that any state actions should not be considered a replacement for federal measures. Weber said she hoped the California law might inspire action nationally. There have been bills to study reparations before Congress for decades. The first hearing on reparations was in 2019.

Many White Southerners who moved to the California territory during the Gold Rush (1848 to the mid-1850s) brought the people they enslaved with them, according to Susan D. Anderson, the history curator of the California African American Museum.

"In the beginning, they were forced to work in the mines like everybody else," Anderson told The Washington Post in a phone interview. "But once they got here, they were hired out, as cooks, as farmers, they were servants."

California was admitted as a state as part of a deal between lawmakers representing slave and free states known as the Compromise of 1850. In exchange for passing legislation making California a free state - tipping the balance of power toward free states - lawmakers also passed a strict fugitive slave law that effectively "turned the criminal justice system and legal system in the United States into bounty hunters for slave owners," Anderson said.

Though it was a technically a "free" state, White settlers were not abolitionists; it was more that they didn't want any Black people there at all. Before Peter Burnett became the first American governor of California, he penned a law in Oregon Country banning Black people.

Slavery persisted in California until it was abolished nationally, Anderson said. There were no slave schedules and the 1850 census was famously faulty, so it is probably impossible to know how many people were enslaved in the Golden State. There were at least several hundred and possibly many more, Anderson said. There were ads for slave sales in California newspapers.

"Because California was the frontier and the wild, there were people that ran away when they could," she said.

About 2,000 free Black people, largely from New York and Massachusetts, chose to move to California during the Gold Rush, according to Anderson, and they often helped the enslaved escape.

That's what happened to Biddy Mason in 1856. Over the years she had been forced to move with her enslavers from Georgia to Utah to California - where she met and befriended free Black people. When she learned her enslavers planned to take her to Texas, she asked them for help. Her friends alerted the sheriff, who rescued her. Mason wasn't allowed to testify at the hearing about her own freedom, but a judge still declared her and her children "forever free." Mason became a midwife and eventually became one of the richest women in California, buying a homestead in what is now downtown Los Angeles.

Archy Lee got help from the free Black community in San Francisco in 1857. When he found out his enslaver planned to take him back to Mississippi, he ran away and hid in a hotel owned by Black abolitionists. He was arrested, freed by a judge and then arrested again when the California Supreme Court reversed the decision. (Burnett, the racist former governor, was one of the justices.) Eventually, a federal court freed him permanently, and he moved to Canada.

Charles Perkins, his brother Carter and another man were forced to work in California's mines. When their enslaver decided to return to Mississippi, he could only afford passage for himself. The men earned their freedom from the White man who had been put in charge of them and started their own business.

But then California passed its own fugitive slave law, and within weeks, they were arrested and sent back to Mississippi to be re-enslaved. It was rumored at the time that the men escaped when their ship neared Panama, Anderson wrote in the California Historical Society.

Then there was Alvin Coffey. He made the trip from Missouri to California three times total. The first time, he gathered more than $6,000 in gold dust to buy his and his family's freedom. His enslaver, a doctor, had agreed to the deal, but when the time came, the doctor took the gold and sent him back to Missouri.

"That was actually pretty common," Anderson said.

Coffey was able to make his way back to California, and this time successfully bought his freedom, and then the freedom of his wife and children. He became a leader in his community and helped build schools for Black children, who at the time were banned from public schools. Family legend has it the kids were taught by John Brown's daughters.

Michele Thompson, a retired civil servant in Walnut Creek, is Coffey's great-great-granddaughter. His freedom papers passed down to her from her father, who was pioneering in his own way - he was the first black police officer in Oakland.

"I think of first-black-this, first-black-that with my father, and I think, 'Hey, we're not that far from slavery,'" Thompson told The Post in a phone interview.

So with the new reparations law, would Thompson accept possible compensation the $6,000 stolen from her great-great-grandfather? It would be $200,000 today.

She wouldn't mind a check, but she isn't seeking one, Thompson said. First of all, Coffey had nine kids, and some of them had a dozen kids each. There are a lot of relatives to split it with today, she said.

"To me, if you want to do something to compensate for slavery, put that money where it's going to do some good," she said. Use it to improve failing schools.
(Natural News) A student at New York University (NYU) attending classes online and off-campus has been suspended for going to an outdoor rooftop party that allegedly violated the citys Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) guidelines.

The student, known as Andy  a pseudonym adopted to protect his identity  is arguing that the party in question complied with New York Citys COVID-19 rules. The party, which was held on the rooftop of a building on Saturday, Aug. 22, had fewer than 50 people in it. While some attendees did not wear face masks, Andy alleges that he did not stand close to any of them and instead only spent time with his roommates. Andy is also arguing that he and his friends did not stay in the party long. (Related: Northeastern University expels 11 freshmen over supposed party, but keeps all their tuition money.)

Unfortunately for Andy, someone at the party posted a video on social media. While Andy never saw the video himself, he was visible in it. The video was then reported to NYU administrators through their COVID-19 compliance system.

The day after the party, NYU Director of Student Conduct Craig Jolley sent Andy an email accusing the student of threatening the health and safety of the NYU Community. By Monday, Aug. 24, Andy had been suspended for the rest of the semester. He will be able to return in 2021 if he begged the university to be readmitted and if he wrote a reflection paper regarding the role young people like himself are playing in the transmission of COVID-19 in the country.

NYU administrators have accused Andy of violating three key policies in their student code of conduct:

Policy B1, which prohibits students from engaging in behavior that can threaten or otherwise compromise health and safety.

Policy E1, which prohibits students from engaging in disorderly, disruptive or antagonizing behavior that can threaten the health, safety, security or welfare of the community.

Policy E3, which obliges students to follow the universitys and the citys COVID-19 guidelines while they are on campus.

In the letter sent to Andy informing him of his suspension, Jolley said that NYU is not going to tolerate any kind of conduct that supposedly disregards the rules and threatens the health and safety of others.

Your behavior in this situation was unacceptable, wrote Jolley.

Andys appeal was swiftly rejected, and his suspension was confirmed

I am not a student who will be staying at or near NYU housing, nor will I be entering Campus Grounds or NYU buildings as I am currently enrolled in all online courses, wrote Andy in a letter appealing the decision. He was invited to plead his case on a Zoom call, but he was only given 24 hours to prepare. Immediately after the call, Jolley informed Andy that his appeal was rejected and that his suspension was finalized.

Even if Andy jumped through all of the hoops NYU wants to put him through, he might not be able to return because he relies on a full-tuition scholarship, the status of which is now being threatened by the disciplinary action leveled against him.

Furthermore, Andy said that the loss of his scholarship will also affect his future employment opportunities, as he has a job offer with a bank that is contingent upon his successful graduation.

A suspension for me is more than just a semester, he said. This adversely impacts my entire life.

Andy said he considered going through legal channels to get the situation sorted out, however, when he contacted a lawyer and found out how much it would cost him, he rejected this idea as he could not afford it.

Andy still believes he was wronged. Not only did he not put the health and safety of any NYU students at risk, he believes that the universitys COVID-19 rules should only apply to people who are either actually present on campus or who attend physical classes there.

Adam Steinbaugh, an attorney for the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education, a nonprofit that advocates for free speech rights in college campuses, said that if Andy were to file a lawsuit against NYU, he would have a solid case.

Steinbaugh is arguing that, unless the party Andy went to had a lot of NYU students around, the university has no reason to take disciplinary action against Andy, a student who will not be attending any physical classes at the campus. Steinbaugh further believes that the university was grossly overreacting to the situation, and unless the outdoor rooftop party violated New York Citys health orders, it would be difficult for them to justify the suspension in court.

Its hard to blame students for being surprised that this type of policy is being applied to their off-campus conduct, said Steinbaugh.

While Andy reconsiders his options, right now hes trying to enroll at a different online college so that he can continue studying. He said that he regrets going to the party, and that he shouldnt have conducted himself in that manner while in the middle of a global pandemic.

He wrote in his appeal letter that he does try to stay safe, and that he has learned a lot from the incident. However, during the night of the party, his snap decision to go out was due to a desire to seek a sense of normalcy that he had not felt since before the coronavirus swept through the nation.

Listen to this episode of the Health Ranger Report, a podcast by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, as he talks about how the medical police state, with its insanely restrictive lockdown policies and mandatory vaccinations, has come to the United States.

NYU has suspended over 20 students for violating COVID-19 guidelines

Unfortunately, Andy is not the only victim of NYUs restrictive coronavirus rules. During the first weekend of the fall semester, the university announced that over 20 students have already been suspended for supposedly violating their health and safety rules.

Please dont be next. Avoid parties and bars. Wear a mask. Keep your distance, said NYU through their official Twitter account.

The school was concerned because of an outdoor party conducted at Washington Square Park, near the campus. NYU said that their health and safety rules apply at all times, whether or not the student is inside or outside of the campus.

Our Office of Student Conduct has been aggressively enforcing [our health and safety rules] and will continue to do so, said the university in a statement released after announcing the suspensions. If we confirm that any of our students were involved in these gatherings and acting in violation of our health and safety protocols, we will take swift action.

NYU isnt the only university enforcing these coronavirus regulations with heavy-handed punishments.

Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts, made the waves for expelling 11 students for allegedly breaking social distancing rules on campus and for refusing to refund their $36,500 tuition. The University of Maryland has threatened to punish students for socializing in large groups, with several people already being suspended for their actions. At the University of Pittsburgh, students are being designated as persona non grata for violating the revised student conduct code, which means they are barred from going inside the campus.

Being prevented from accessing quality education during a pandemic will no doubt take a very heavy toll on these students. Learn more about the draconian policies being enforced under the guise of the coronavirus by reading the articles at Pandemic.news.

Sources include:

WND.com

Reason.com

ABC7NY.com

TeenVogue.com
Eighty-one percent.

For four years, that number has been at the heart of countless news articles, research papers and online debates, each seeking to untangle why, exactly, eight out of 10 white evangelicals voted for Donald Trump, a thrice-married former Democratic donor who has been accused repeatedly of sexual assault.

But even before the 2016 election, a striking change in attitudes about political leaders showed up. While 30 percent of white evangelicals agreed in 2011 that elected officials can behave ethically even if they have committed transgressions in their personal life, one month before the presidential election, 70 percent said the same thing. The voting bloc that represented roughly one-quarter of the 2016 electorate and had for decades branded itself as part of Americas moral majority no longer demanded moral purity in its leaders.

No group has shifted their position more dramatically than white evangelical Protestants, researchers with the Public Religion Research Institute, which conducted the surveys, wrote at the time.

TRUMP'S APPEAL TRUMP'S APPEAL: President Donald Trump has low approval ratings, but a very devoted group of supporters. This occasional series will explore his appeal in Texas. See More Collapse

Mark Mulligan, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer

Four years later, the group still strongly backs Trump, and its become clear the president and his supporters have had profound effects on American evangelical Christianity.

Angela Blouin says its for the better. She jokes that she grew up in the House of No. She was born in Texas and, when she was 8, her Marine Corps father moved the family to central Ohio to pastor a small Baptist church.

Hers was a faithful, middle-class upbringing, and she said she still carries that love for Christ. So when she eventually moved back to Houston years ago, she immediately started looking for a new church home and landed at Lakewood Church, where shes also a choir member.

I just really love Jesus! she said. And that doesnt make me perfect. Of course, everybody fails. Im just like everybody else, but I have this crazy faith.

Shes all-in on Trump 2020. The 42-year-old lists abortion, religious liberty, jobs and the economy as some of the reasons why. The things that we were so down and desperate about until Trumps election, she said.

Trump, she said, makes her feel safer in what she believes to be the End Times  an apocalyptic end to the world described in the Book of Revelations.

To be honest with you, this day and age is so different. Youre really fighting for souls.

In Joe Biden, a moderate Democrat and devout Catholic known to carry a rosary at all times, many white evangelicals see a Trojan horse for the Marxist revolution that preachers and pundits have warned about since Barack Obama was elected, governed for eight years and peacefully transitioned power to a political rival.

I believe the storm is coming, Franklin Graham, son of the famed televangelist Billy Graham, said recently. Youre going to see Christians attacked. Youre going to see churches close. Youre going to see a real hatred expressed toward people of faith. Thats coming.

Underdog

Many Trump supporters believe the stakes are apocalyptically high. As protests over police brutality continue and the Senate prepares to vote on the confirmation of Circuit Judge Amy Coney Barrett to replace the late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the stakes are likely to get higher.

Trump has made good on the campaign promise to appoint conservatives to judicial openings that was key to gaining evangelical support in 2016. And some believe that will be enough to keep Trump in office for another four years.

This is why evangelicals and Christians will stick with Donald Trump in this election cycle, said Jessica Colon, a Houston-based Republican consultant and Trump supporter. He has absolutely changed the face of our judicial system for the better for a generation. And that will not be forgotten.

Adie Schlenker grew up in a very religious home in Houston and wasnt able to vote in 2016. Today, the 21-year-old is pursuing a degree in government at the University of Texas, with a focus on the relationship between religion and law.

Her top issues are consistent with those of most white evangelicals, a voting bloc that, in 2016, listed health care, jobs and national security as their most important concerns. In that survey, abortion  long assumed to be a key driver of Christian support for conservative candidates  was listed at No. 9. Gay marriage was dead last.

But it was Trumps communication style that first gained Schlenkers support.

He was the underdog, she said. He was saying things that no one else is saying, and I was like, I agree with that, thats crazy.  It was the underdog personality, the Im gonna say what I want, because no one else is saying it stuff.

Mark Mulligan, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer

And she likes that he makes jokes. When Trump last week, refused to commit to a peaceful transition of power if he loses, Schlenker laughed it off. His insults, daily Twitter rants, his bullying rhetoric are all part of what makes Trump Trump. Its part of his appeal.

For him, its appropriate, she said.

Kenny Wolfam focuses less on Trumps rhetoric and adultery, and more on what hes done in office. Wolfam voted third party in 2016, and said U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, was the last politician he was excited to support.

The 33-year-old is an ardent Second Amendment supporter. He dislikes big government, which he says infringes on the rights he views as being derived from God first, the U.S. Constitution second.

I try and keep his character in mind because, to an extent, thats how you can estimate what a person will do, Wolfam said. But at the end of the day, I care about policies.

Messages from GOP, not churches

Paul Djupe is a professor of political science at Denison University in Granville, Ohio, and has spent years studying Christians and the Republican Party.

He has a grim outlook for evangelicalism.

Djupe sees the marriage between Trump and white evangelicals as another reflection of the broadening gulfs in American religion, politics and partisanship.

That predates Trump, he said, drawing back to decades ago, when whats now known as the Religious Right first began to coalesce in opposition to issues such as abortion, gay rights and, to some degree, racial integration. The movement made household names of the likes of Billy Graham, Jerry Falwell Sr. and others who warned of Americas creeping moral decay, brought on by the loss of the traditional family structure and the sexual deviancy they assured would follow.

Others have since borrowed from the playbook, Djupe said, but havent been as influential. That left the evangelical world fragmented at the same time that the internet and talk radio increasingly gave the faithful more options for whom to look to for moral clarity, religious or not.

The messaging is not coming from churches, and instead from Republicans and conservative activists, he said. There are a lot of different concerns about being white, about the economy and the opportunities for those with less education. And that makes them really susceptible to Republican arguments about economic and culture threats because theyve conflated those two things.

Mark Mulligan, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer

Meanwhile, the number of nonreligious or religiously unaffiliated Americans continues to tick upward almost each year, with decades of research showing that younger generations continue to flee traditional churches and denominations in part because they see them as politicized.

There are fewer potential congregants for whom churches can compete and, thus, increased likelihood that church leaders will try to maintain their flocks by digging in on hot-button political issues or, alternatively, avoiding them altogether, Djupe said.

All of it makes this market competition be felt more greatly, Djupe said. Churches really feel like theyre in competition with a wide variety of local churches and they could lose people on a dime.  If they try to say anything against Trump at this point, theyre going to drive people out.

Those arent your people

Thats been particularly clear when it comes to how  or if  to address racism. Recent polling by the Barna group found that fewer than half of white Christians believed racism is a problem. More than twice as many Black Christians said the same.

The differences are sharp enough that earlier this summer, two local pastors, one Black, one white, launched an initiative to prompt conversations about race and prejudice, including a sermon series that addresses the issues from a scriptural viewpoint.

Those types of grassroots efforts may help in the long run. But it will take much more to shake the feelings of betrayal that many Black Christians have expressed since 2016, particularly as deaths of unarmed Black people at the hands of police continue to spark protests across the nation.

The election itself was the single most harmful event to the whole movement of reconciliation in at least the past 30 years, Michael Emerson, a well-known writer on race and Christianity, said at the time. Its about to completely break apart.

Trey Medley grew up in evangelical churches around Houston. Being pro-life was crucial to his faith, he recalled.

Mark Mulligan, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer

At 23, he left Texas to study at a seminary in Birmingham, Ala. It was there that he first started to wrestle with what it meant to be pro-life.

He recalls being told not to live in an apartment because those arent your people, and hearing his fellow white seminarians condemn any white Christian not aligned with the Republican Party, while simultaneously expecting their Black colleagues to be all-in on the Democratic Party simply because of their race.

Youd have people who would say things to you that were openly racist, but because we were white it was OK, Medley said. It was shocking and jolting.  Racism became a really big issue to me.

In 2008, he cast his first ballot for a Democrat  Barack Obama  and today considers himself a political moderate. He said hes voting for Joe Biden in November, and thinks the Trump presidency has damaged the credibility of white evangelicals and, thus, Christianity as a whole.

As an evangelical, I would say he has almost destroyed the Christian witness that evangelicals have, Medley said. Theyve lost sight of what the kingdom is really about by making it about temporary politics. Im not going to say its the death knell for American evangelicalism, but it could be.

robert.downen@chron.com
The raging Covid-19 pandemic and Election Commissions guidelines have hit poll campaigning in Bihar in a big way. However, this hasnt in anyway stopped political jugglery in the state.

With just a day left before nomination for the first phase polling, the political alignments remain far from settled. On the other hand, cracks have started appearing in the Mahagathbandhan over the issue of seat distribution as well as on the question of leadership.

To begin with, the Tejashwi Yadav-led Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), the principle opposition party in Bihar, is facing the heat from ally Congress over the number of seats the RJD is reportedly offering to the grand old party. The Congress, according to reports, is not ready to accept anything less than 70-75 seats against the RJDs offer of around 60 seats in the 243-member state assembly.

Another of the RJDs ally, the Upendra Kushwaha-led RLSP has already snapped ties and joined hands with Mayawatis BSP in the state.

However, its the brewing rebellion in the NDA camp led by Lok Janshakti Partys (LJP) Chirag Paswan which has baffled political watchers in the state. In a fast-changing political scenario, LJPs national general secretary, Shahnawaz Ahmad Kaifi, on Tuesday said that Chirag Paswan is their partys chief ministerial face, a stand contrary to BJPs acceptance of Nitish Kumar as the alliances face in the state polls.

Speaking to news agency ANI, Kaifi said, The party members also believe that we should fight on at least 143 seats in the elections. I, too, would urge the party to fight on these many seats."

On Monday, Paswan junior, according to reports, met BJP president JP Nadda and demanded a decision on seat-sharing soon. This was Paswans second meeting with the BJP boss in the last two weeks. Earlier, both met on September 15 where Paswan reportedly asked Nadda to contest more seats in the state than Nitish Kumars JD(U).

Paswan also reportedly shot off a letter to PM Narendra Modi, dwelling on the current political situation in Bihar while ruing about strong anti-incumbency wave against the CM.

So, what explains Paswan juniors sudden rising against the JD(U) and especially chief minister Nitish Kumar?

Before moving forward, it would be prudent to explore where the LJP electorally stands in Bihars caste-ridden identity politics.

It is true that there was a brief time in the states politics when Ram Vilas Paswan was seen as a singular claimant to Dalit votes, which constitute around 16% in the state. However, with the Nitish Kumar government carving out the Mahadalits or the most deprived section among the Dalits, Paswan was left with just 5% loyal votes of his Dusadh sub-caste. Losing this core captive vote bank to the JD(U) is still stinging the party.

Electorally, too, the LJPs vote share in the assembly polls has gone down from 11.10% votes in 2005 to a dismal 4.83% in the last state polls. The party won just two of the 42 seats it contested in the 2015 assembly elections.

The Lokniti-CSDS Post Poll survey for 2015 assembly polls found that just 51% of Paswans (Dusadhs) voted for the NDA in which the LJP was a partner. This was much lower than the 2014 Lok Sabha polls when more than two-thirds of the Paswan votes went to the alliance.

Realising the importance of the fluid Dalit vote bank, Nitish Kumar, too, has been trying to further consolidate his Mahadalit votes plus dent Paswans core Dusadh votes.

Many of recent decisions by Nitish Kumar point in this direction, including bringing back Jitan Ram Manjhi, a prominent Dalit face in the state, back to the NDA fold.

Further, as a political expert pointed out, appointment of building construction department (BCD) minister and a Dalit face, Ashok Choudhary, as JD(U)s state working president, announcement of jobs for the kin of murder victims who were from the Scheduled Castes, induction of retired Dalit IPS officer Sunil Kumar in the party are some of the recent steps taken by Kumar to consolidate his hold among Dalits. Any further fracture in the LJPs core Dalit votes will also help the JD(U) counter the former in case Paswan moves out of the NDA and puts up candidates against the JD(U).

The top BJP leaders have so far remained silent on the ongoing infighting between the two key allies. The LJP hasnt got any assurance from the BJP so far on seat-sharing with sources claiming that the party has been offered around 27 seats, much lower than 42 seats it contested in the 2015 assembly polls. Another hiccup that has reportedly emerged is that the seats offered by the BJP arent of LJPs choice.

So, where do things move from here for the LJP?

The first and the safest option for now would be to agree to the number of seats being offered and continue in the NDA alliance, says a political commentator who didnt wish to be named.

The gamble, the commentator argues, for the LJP would be to walk out of the alliance. But, it may turn out to be a pure misadventure. Given LJPs shrinking and limited voter base, Paswan could well face a prospect similar to LJSPs Upendra Kushwaha or Pappu Yadav of Jan Adhikar Party. Furthermore, it will make senior Paswans position in the Union Cabinet untenable, he said.

Second option for the LJP would be to go solo, an idea being pushed by some LJP leaders, including partys state president and Samastipur MP Prince Raj who was quoted by the Times Of India as saying that the LJP is prepared to contest 143 seats, whether as a constituent of NDA or on our own".

A source close to the party hints that these 143 seats would be those on which the JD(U) would be contesting. This step is a safer option and would keep the route open in case the party decides to come back to the NDA fold later. However, moving out of the NDAs fold for the party is easier said than done. Though the party has released a video message of its Vaishali MP Veena Devi favouring fighting on 143 seats, a future rebellion cannot be ruled out. There is a history to it in the party and Chirag Paswan would do well to remember it.

In 2005, when Ram Vilas Paswan dithered on supporting Nitish Kumar as the CM, 21 of its 29 members rebelled against him and later joined the Nitish-led JD(U).
An 11-year-old boy killed himself after leaving a chilling final message to his parents in Italy, sparking fears that he took his own life while playing a new online 'suicide game' similar to Blue Whale.

The child jumped from a ten-storey window in Via Mergellina in Chiaia, Naples, at around 1am on Tuesday.

Officers later looked at his tablet to find his final words that read: 'I love you mum and dad. I have to follow the black man with the hood.'

Investigators have not ruled out speculation that the boy was making reference to 'horror challenges' linked to an online fictional character called Jonathan Galindo, according to Italian media.

Galindo is a mysterious figure disguised as a humanoid dog in a dark hood who dares children to perform increasingly extreme and dangerous acts - culminating in their suicide.

Investigators have not ruled out speculation that the 11-year-old boy took his own life while playing a new online 'suicide game' linked to an online fictional character called Jonathan Galindo (pictured)

The child was described as healthy, sporty, popular and from a middle-class family.

It is thought he could have been playing the new online 'game' that begins when players, usually children and teenagers, add Galindo on all social media channels.

The tasks start with fairly banal orders such as 'wake up in the middle of the night' or 'watch a scary film'.

But the tasks gradually escalate as Galindo urges players to self harm or put themselves in mortal danger like 'stand on the ledge of a tower block'.

The final challenge is a demand that the user kill themselves.

The face of Galindo was created by a makeup artist who is against suicide and has denounced the association between his art and the character.

Galindo (pictured) is a mysterious figure disguised as a humanoid dog in a dark hood who reportedly dares children to perform increasingly extreme and dangerous acts - culminating in their suicide

Galindo has been compared to the Blue Whale Challenge which sets 50 tasks over 50 days before also urging users to kill themselves.

Blue Whale, which has been around since 2015, has been linked to more than 130 suicides of youngsters across the globe.

It was thought that the 'Momo Challenge' later re-created the phenomenon after first being reported in July 2018.

The Momo Challenge, which was first reported in July 2018, saw users hounded with frightening images and violent messages leading to calls for 'players' to kill themselves ('Momo' pictured)

Users were allegedly contacted by the fictional character on WhatsApp before being hounded with frightening images and violent messages.

But this has since been revealed as a hoax.

An investigation into the boy's suicide is still ongoing.
English French

MONTREAL, Oct. 01, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Computers for Success Canada (CFSC-OPEC) welcomes the support and expertise of two new Board members, Anne-Marie Mulumba (Director), and Mritunjay (MJ) Sinha (Treasurer).



As an organization helping schools, not-for-profit organizations and individuals at risk of digital exclusion to adopt the technology, connectivity and skills they need to thrive in our society, CFSC-OPEC is pleased to welcome new members whose expertise reflects our values of inclusion and social responsibility, said Toby Harper-Merrett, Executive Director of CFSC-OPEC.

Anne-Marie Mulumba collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to inform digital product delivery. Her focus is to conduct research with francophones, people with disabilities, businesses and under-presented groups by building relationships with community organizations across the country to promote inclusion.

A social entrepreneur-operator and an investor, MJ Sinha has been working in impact and responsible investing for the last few years. He started with Grand Challenges Canada and thereafter helped deploy over C$30M through private-market impact investing and over C$100M through responsible investment strategies for several family offices, foundations, and other investors. His passion for social change is complemented by his experience in Capital Markets and Corporate Strategy.

As a small Montreal-based organization, CFSC has demonstrated exceptional agility in supporting Government of Canada programs through close collaboration with private, public and not-for-profit partners in every province and territory, said Darrell Liebrecht, Chair of CFSC-OPEC. We strongly believe that the addition of Anne-Marie and MJ to our Board will help the organization further elevate its focus on inclusiveness while fulfilling its important mandate of supporting Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada digital inclusion and economic participation programs.

About CFSC

Computers for Success Canada (CFSC-OPEC) is a not-for-profit organization established in 2005 in support of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada digital inclusion and economic participation programs. CFSC-OPECs services stand in four pillars - marketing and communications, partnership development, project management, and strategic planning.

Contact

Julie Brouard

Manager, Communications and Partnerships

Computers for Success  Canada Inc.

julie.brouard@cfsc-opec.org

514-793-8073
This spring, doing rounds in the Covid-19 units at the University of Maryland School of Medicine Medical Center in Baltimore, Dr. Kirsten Lyke saw more than 130 patients each day. Some were under observation after developing symptoms like shortness of breath, dry cough, and fever. Others were on ventilators. Many initially tested negative for the virus, only to have a more precise follow-up test indicate that they did, in fact, have Covid-19.

Sometimes, it happened fast. Newly diagnosed Covid patients  who required only a few liters of oxygen when they were admitted  could end up on life support by the following morning. People who only a few months prior would have been considered too young to have their lives seriously threatened by a virus filled the beds. To protect her young son from exposure to the novel coronavirus, Lyke moved him in with a close friend of hers in Philadelphia.

By mid-May, much of the medical center had been converted into Covid wards, including three now operating as Covid ICUs. In those wards, an iPad was positioned beside each bed, with its camera and two-way speakers switched on around the clock. Down the hall, doctors and nurses hovered over monitors in a room converted into the pandemic version of Mission Control. Though many patients were on ventilators and unable to communicate, this setup allowed the medical staff to keep an eye on them, minimizing contact.

Dressed in personal protective equipment from head-to-toe, Lyke and her colleagues would enter the ward to the chorus of overlapping beeps coming from the ventilators and monitoring equipment  an aural reminder of the urgency of their work. Being part of a team whose members risked their lives to care for other people resulted in a formidable bond, Lyke tells Rolling Stone. It really felt like we were in a war together.

But the medical center wasnt the only battleground. About 100 feet away, across a tree-lined street on the medical campus, was UMSOMs Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health. There, Lyke was the co-principal investigator on the first phase of the Pfizer Covid vaccine trial. Doing both jobs meant long days for the physician  she started at 6 a.m., four hours before her hospital shift began, and went well into the night. By mid-May, as Maryland hit more than 1,000 new cases daily, the research was also at its peak, and Lyke spent her days dashing between the hospital and the research laboratory. Everything was happening in real-time: treating people hospitalized for Covid, while simultaneously trying to create a vaccine. I dont think there has ever been an experience like this in modern medical science, Lyke says. Weve done other trials where we have a sense of urgency, but this one is off the charts. To track this historic progress, Rolling Stone conducted months-long interviews with the doctors and scientists at the forefront of this research to see how, as the death-toll rises, a potentially world-saving vaccine is coming together.

Story continues

Instead of bags filled with fluids and liquid medications, in the halls of the Center for Vaccine Development, blue surgical gowns hang from IV poles, alongside cardboard boxes full of supplies. At first glance, it could be any hospital from the early Twenty-First century: clean and minimal, with white and gray walls and just enough light-oak finishings to give it a little warmth. But within seconds of entering the building, its clear that this isnt a typical medical facility. The energy is different. Instead of patients fighting for their lives, volunteers eagerly roll up their sleeves as they take to the high-backed, padded sea-foam green chairs, to make the process smoother for the nurses administering their experimental vaccine candidates.

Overall, developing a vaccine for Covid has been very different from any inoculation that came before it. First, theres the speed: The initial cases of non-travel-related Covid in the United States were confirmed at the end of February; Less than a month later, Pfizer announced that it had partnered with German biotech company BioNTech to develop a Covid-19 vaccine. They were banking on the combination of BioNTechs expertise in mRNA vaccines with Pfizers manufacturing capabilities and familiarity with the American regulatory processes to get them to the finish line as quickly and safely as possible. On May 4th, 2020, the team at UMSOM vaccinated their first volunteer, kicking off the phase-one clinical trials in the United States. Trials at the three other sites  New York University, Cincinnati Childrens Hospital, and the University of Rochester  soon followed.

Unlike many vaccines  which can contain the entire virus, whether live, dead or alive in a weakened form  the messenger (m) RNA is essentially a piece of genetic code that instructs cells to make a protein. In this case, its portions of the coronavirus spike protein. Were basically tricking our bodies into thinking that its seeing the virus, and to produce antibodies to fight Covid-19, when all its really seeing is the spike protein, Lyke explains. The protein acts like a red flag, which our bodies attack in the form of an immune response, and which we hope will provide protection against the coronavirus.

Typically, a phase-one trial would have between 40 and 60 participants, and take between 12 and 18 months to get FDA approval and for testing to get off the ground. This one involved enrolling approximately 250 volunteers across four sites and many different arms, and came together in three weeks. Instead of taking several months to review the trial, the FDA took eight days. Every step along the way, its just been 24/7, says Lyke, who is also a professor of medicine at UMSOM. We still have the same safety milestones, [and] were still monitoring the volunteers very carefully.

The interdisciplinary center at the CVD  comprised of 35 faculty members and 120 nurses, lab techs, pharmacists, and other staff  employs some of the most experienced vaccine researchers in the country. Theres Lyke, whose background in malaria and tropical diseases  as well as her experience treating Covid patients  means that she knows what the virus looks like on the ground. Theres Dr. Wilbur Chen, an experienced cholera researcher and advisor to the governor who is responsible for communicating the scientific aspects of Covid and the vaccine trial to the general public. Theres Lisa Chrisley, the trials clinical research manager, who supervises a staff of 20 to ensure that even the minute details of the operation are in order. Each person has spent their career honing the specialized skills and knowledge that would eventually put them in the position to lead groundbreaking vaccine research around the world. Pretty much every step along the way, everyone just dropped everything and immediately launched into their portion of getting this moving forward, Lyke says. After working to develop life-saving vaccines in other countries, the members selected for this team joined forces to face a threat to global health that hit close to home.

Along with the research staff, the volunteers also played an integral role in the story of the vaccine trial. Ranging in age from 22 to 83, the 87 volunteers at the CVD included everyone from college students to construction workers to a national pickleball champion. In general, there was a real spirit of altruism, Lyke says, adding that many of the participants asked if they could donate their volunteer compensation. All were grateful and excited to participate.

Every week of the trial, the participants received escalating doses of the vaccine, which were randomized and blinded  meaning that neither the participants nor researchers know which iteration of the potential vaccine theyre getting. To make things more complicated, the trial wasnt testing a single vaccine: initially there were four permutations administered in three different doses, meaning there were a total of 12 distinct combinations. The permutation that had the most promising results and was the best tolerated across age groups has moved on to its final phase, where it is currently being tested in 44,000 people nationwide.

When testing a vaccine to respond to a virus that has only been around for a few months, theres no existing formula for the vaccine itself, or for the operational needs of the clinical trial. Even under the most straightforward circumstances, vaccine research is logistically complex, requiring team members to take on multiple responsibilities, all while navigating federal regulations and each studys individual design.

Everything has to be made from scratch, from the case-report forms, to the electronic databases, to the training seminars for those working in the lab and with the resulting data. And though this all had to be done relatively quickly, the team understood that the Pfizer phase-one trial would likely be the first of many, and developed forms and other procedures that could be used for future Covid research. For example, back in May, before the trial was up and running, Lyke created a general protocol for recruiting volunteers for any type of Covid-19-related studies, including vaccine trials, plasma research, and serologic studies. It gave us a template to start to look at the Covid vaccine effort in an overarching way  not just for Pfizer, but for future studies, Lyke says.

With countless moving pieces  along with the new issues that crop up as a trial progresses  its crucial to have someone overseeing the entire operation. In this case, its Lisa Chrisley, a 20-year veteran of the Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health. Her colleagues refer to her as the backbone of the study, in awe of her ability to keep the operation not only running smoothly and safely, but doing so at unprecedented speed. In addition to being a registered nurse, Chrisleys position as the clinical research manager for the Pfizer vaccine trial made her responsible for supervising the approximately 20 staff members working on various aspects of the research  from interacting with the participants, to trainings, to making sure there are supplies, to liaising between the lab, pharmacy, and regulatory staff. And while the research deals with a novel virus, Chrisley is confident in the ability of the team. Since 9/11, weve been on the frontline of public health. Weve been through smallpox, anthrax, bird flu, Ebola, Zika, H1N1, she says. This is what we do.

Following medical school, doctors complete a notoriously stressful one-year internship. It involves working long hours, dealing with intense pressure, and spending every second or third night at the hospital. But what makes it bearable is knowing there is a set end point, says Dr. Kathleen Neuzil, the director of the CVD, who frequently uses this analogy as a way to illustrate the specific stress that comes with performing this type of exhausting and demanding work with no certainty as to when it will end. Theres a lot that makes the Covid vaccine trial unique, including that were really moving with unparalleled speed, says Neuzil, who, along with Lyke, is a co-principal investigator of the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine trial.

An expert in both the science and policy of vaccine research  shes served on committees for both the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control  Neuzils background in advocacy complements Lykes clinical and research experience, making them a formidable pair to battle the vaccines distinctive challenges. These include everything from operating at a significantly faster pace without compromising safety, to concerns over team members own health. We have learned risk mitigation. Weve learned to be smart. Weve learned to work in teams, because youre never quite sure whats going to happen, who might get sick or pulled away, Neuzil says.

Since the beginning of March, Neuzil has worked seven days a week  in the hospital for 10 or 11 hours, then catching up on work after dinner. I am the director, and I like to be here if Im requiring staff to be here, she says. Her days begin at 5 a.m., and can involve 6:30 a.m. dial-ins for calls with teams working on vaccination development in Africa or Europe, for which she serves as a strategic advisor. After that, Neuzil spends most mornings working on and overseeing the multiple studies taking place at the CVD, including the Covid-19 vaccine trials. Beyond the CVD, she is also consulting on the organization of a multitude of clinical trials taking place throughout the United States, as well as serving on a number of national advisory committees.

Yet despite her global scope, Neuzil says that some of the stress of the job comes from the fact that the vaccine team has collectively lost four relatives to the virus. Its very personal to all of us, she says. And you know you have some ability to change the trajectory. But you cant pretend that you have control over it. And the uncertainty is so large: How long is this going to last? How is this virus going to surprise us today?

Meanwhile, Lykes combined responsibilities have given her a rare perspective on the pandemic. Seeing both sides of the equation  both treating patients directly and then going into the lab and trying to figure out the vaccine  theyre both so necessary, she explains. Its a once-in-a-lifetime scenario. Even when Im rounding with my team in the hospital, we just stop and were like, This is surreal. I cant believe were doing this.

Kathy Strauss, a laboratory specialist on the team, says that while she feels the pressure of this particular trial, theres nothing else shed rather be working on. If [Lyke] hadnt asked me to do this, I would have been just devastated  crushed, she tells Rolling Stone. Her role in the Covid vaccine trial involves utilizing a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method  previously developed with colleagues while working on a malaria vaccine  to determine whether subjects have the disease. In the Covid trial, blood drawn from a participant is smeared on a slide and examined under a powerful microscope to determine whether the person has developed immune cells. The blood smears are used both as part of the screening process to ensure that volunteers are healthy enough to participate, as well as during the trial, to monitor any changes in their blood.

Antibody tests to determine COVID status cant always detect whether someone has the virus, but the highly sensitive PCR method uses the RNA of the virus to determine whether the participant is Covid-19 positive before receiving the vaccine. This [trial] is similar to our malaria vaccine studies, but a lot more intense for obvious reasons, because with malaria, if we catch it, we can treat it, Strauss explains. The threat of death isnt hanging over you like it is here.

For Strauss, the stress and excitement of being part of this historic vaccine trial has manifested in the form of excess energy. I mean, you cannot make a mistake during these [trials], she says. My biggest problem has been calming down.

As the public face of the UMSOM vaccine trial, Dr. Wilbur Chen received an onslaught of angry emails and phone calls during the first several weeks of the study  primarily from people who were upset about how long businesses had been shut down. Serving as a liaison between the research team and those on the policy side of things, Chen has been in regular communication with the Maryland Department of Health, and serves on Governor Larry Hogans Covid-19 Task Force. Prior to Covid, Chens role as the chief of the adult clinical studies section at the CVD primarily involved conducting vaccine research  including serving as the principal investigator of the 2009 influenza national vaccine trials, and participating in research on Ebola and Zika.

Once Covid hit and Pfizers phase-one clinical trials began, Chens responsibilities shifted, and he spent most of his days outside the lab, taking calls and attending meetings. I basically lend out my expertise to multiple groups to try to be the voice of reason, communicating the scientific basis for decisions made during this Covid-19 pandemic, Chen tells Rolling Stone. We would tell people that this is unprecedented  this is historic  but they didnt always get it. It was frustrating on a daily basis, because we were trying to protect people  not trying to take away liberties. Fortunately, once Maryland began to reopen, Chen says that the angry messages became few and far between.

Other members of the vaccine development team have also dealt with people with a wide range of perspectives: from those who think this is all a hoax and that vaccines are harmful, to those who believe in science but dont necessarily understand the complexities of vaccine development. Chrisley, for one, understands that people are frustrated, and says this adds to the pressure she feels working on this trial. I dont know when were going to have a vaccine, she told Rolling Stone in May. I know were working as quickly as we can, but also ensuring that we maintain the safety of our participants and that were doing good science. And a vaccine will be ready absolutely as soon as we can do it in that manner.

On one hand, Lyke says that its interesting to see people relying on science to come up with the solution to the pandemic. But at the same time, you also see this fringe element, who are rearing up against the science and trying to say, Well, you know, this is all fake, or, You know, the numbers arent as bad as youre making it out to be, and we should open up society and get on with it, she says.

While there is some historical precedent for politicizing aspects of pandemics, John M. Barry, author of The Great Influenza, says that the current situation is much different than the climate during the 1918 flu pandemic. First, the 1918 flu was much deadlier, so nobody thought it was a hoax at any time, he tells Rolling Stone. Also, the political impact of the 1918 pandemic tended to be localized, and not partisan. Most cities had closing orders, Barry says. There was some pushback from the business community, primarily from bars, which were major players in a lot of political machines. But unlike today, this type of political impact was on an insider-level, not a widespread disbelief in science split along party lines.

Lyke doesnt waste her energy on partisan conspiracy theories. Everyone on earth is equally susceptible to this virus, and if we dont act together, it doesnt really matter what state is opening up and which are remaining closed, she says.

But its not only political: some people may be skeptical of the seriousness of Covid-19 and the recommended public health measures because information on the virus has been constantly evolving since January. In public health, we usually like to be consistent [in our messaging]. But in this instance, we cant, Neuzil told Rolling Stone in May. We dont know enough about this virus, and so its better to be right than to be consistent. I understand that the public has heard different messages, so I think theres been some expected pushback. Still, after working nonstop for weeks or months on end, leaving the hospital and seeing people dismissing public health guidelines can feel personal. It is a little disheartening when I go home, and I see so many people walking around without a face mask and not social distancing, Lyke says. It feels like the world thinks that this is ending. But its not.

Over the course of the nearly five months since the Pfizer phase-one Covid vaccine trials began at the CVD, the team has had to adapt to constant updates to the trial  based on data emerging from the other sites  as well as keeping up with their ongoing research aiming to find effective treatments, including one trial involving the antiviral drug Remdesivir. The process has meant that people like Chrisley  who, in addition to the Pfizer vaccine trial, also oversaw two of the treatment studies  have witnessed the sheer magnitude of the pandemic. Weve seen firsthand how this virus ravages the body, and it doesnt care about gender or age, or even if you have other health problems, she says. I mean, this virus is no joke.

Though the team will be following up with the volunteers over the next two years, they gave their final doses for the Pfizer phase-one Covid vaccine trial in July. Based on the findings from the CVD and other testing sites, one of the vaccine candidates (BNT162b2 at 30 micrograms) was selected to move forward to the final stage of clinical trials. We found it to be well tolerated, with near equivalent immune response in the elderly, says Lyke, who, along with her colleagues, published their findings in the journal Nature in August.

Pfizers final phase of clinical trials began in July and includes approximately 120 clinical investigational sites around the world  but UMSOM is not one of them. Instead, Lyke, Neuzil, and their team are now conducting the phase-three trials for a Covid-19 vaccine candidate developed by Moderna  the first to be implemented under Operation Warp Speed, a multi-agency collaboration meant to accelerate the development, manufacturing and distribution of a Covid-19 vaccine. As a Vaccine Testing and Evaluation Unit for the NIH, the CVD is obligated to participate in phase-three trials for an NIH-funded vaccine, Lyke says, and Moderna got to that point first. But again, she emphasizes that the goal of the Pfizer and Moderna trials  as well as the others in progress around the world  is to find a safe and effective Covid-19 vaccine to help slow the pandemic and save lives. I would definitely term it as a race against the virus and, in no way, a race against any other vaccine strategies or teams, she explains. I think all of us hope that many, many vaccine development teams are successful given the complexities of manufacturing and the sheer numbers of doses required.

With both Pfizer and Moderna in the final stages of their respective Covid-19 vaccine trials, the focus now is on timing, in terms of if or when a vaccine candidate receives FDA approval, but more importantly, on a feasible timeline for manufacturing and distributing the vaccine to the public. When the Pfizer phase-one trial began in May, Chen thought that the absolute soonest there would be a licensed and available Covid-19 vaccine would be in 12 to 18 months. Now, he thinks that we could have clear efficacy data on the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine candidates by the fall or early winter. If that scenario plays out, Chen predicts that both companies will file their applications for licensure with the FDA shortly thereafter. Then, he says, it would take the FDA a few months to quickly review the applications and make a determination.

Meanwhile, Donald Trump has spent the past few weeks accusing the FDA of intentionally slowing down the approval process for Covid-19 treatments and vaccines, and has doubled-down on his claims that a Covid-19 vaccine could be ready by Election Day. The discussion even made it to the stage at the first presidential debate, when moderator Chris Wallace pressed Trump on his timeline, noting that CDC Director Dr. Robert Redfield recently said that it would be summer 2021 before the vaccine was widely available. Well, Ive spoken to the companies and we can have it a lot sooner, Trump responded on Tuesday night. Its a very political thing because people like this would rather make it political than save lives.

Concerns over whether Trump may pressure the FDA into prematurely approving a Covid-19 vaccine mounted on September 2nd, when the CDC notified public health officials in all 50 states that they should be ready to distribute a vaccine by the end of October or early November. Chen believes that this was a partially political maneuver, though also points out that it will take a significant amount of preparation for states and territories to begin even limited distribution of a vaccine, so its not unreasonable for the CDC to request that they start the logistical planning now. When the FDA eventually does license a vaccine, there will need to be a gradual roll-out, he explains, noting that it will take time to produce 300 million doses of the vaccine. The limited number of initial doses would be administered to prioritized populations. However, Chen does not think it is realistic that there will be a fully licensed Covid-19 vaccine by November 3rd, 2020  though he is optimistic about having one by November 3rd, 2021.

Since everything started, Strauss, a laboratory specialist in the trial, hasnt slept more than three or four hours a night. Her 10-minute commute doesnt give her much of a chance to decompress, and by the time she gets home, shes still buzzing with excess energy from her day at work. She changes clothes, then takes her rescue Australian blue heeler cattle dog for a two-mile walk. Once she returns to her home in a small town just outside Baltimore, she heads to the room that prompted her to purchase this particular house: her art studio.

Flooded with natural light from three large windows, Strausss workbench is covered in paper, rulers, and supplies for painting and embroidery. She is currently working on a monotype, which involves painting on glass with printing ink and then transferring the image onto paper. You have to do it really carefully, she tells Rolling Stone. Thats what a monotype is  you get one print.

At the beginning of the trial, Strauss would come home and pace. But she soon realized that retreating to her studio was a more effective way to calm her racing thoughts. When youre at work, youre so focused, she says. The stakes are so high for this because of whats going on in the rest of the world. To help deal with some of the stress, Strauss has been allowing herself three cigarettes each day, for the first time since college.

But her primary release has been making art. All my work is about viruses right now, because thats the only thing I can do to get rid of this, she says. Her last three pieces are monotypes of the novel coronavirus, but even before the pandemic, she was working on a series she calls Infectivity, featuring other viruses, as well as bacteria. Much like her work in the lab, there is no room for error with monotypes: you have one shot at getting it right.

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NPP Ashanti Regional Secretary, Sam Pyne has admonished Ghanaians and the government not to entertain the separatist group in the Volta Region.



The separatists have recently carried out a series of attacks in the Region, calling on the government to grant them independence to become an autonomous country.



The group claims they own some territories in the Volta Region and further argues that their forefathers signed a 50-year agreement with Ghana, then leadership of Gold Coast, to unite with Ghana and now that the 50 years has elapsed, they demand to be independent.



Popularly called the ''Western Togolanders'', the group no more wants to associate with Ghana.



They attacked some Police stations and also set fire to a bus belonging to the State Transport Corporation (STC) in the Volta Region in protest against the Government of Ghana.



Addressing the issue on Peace FM's 'Kokrokoo', Sam Pyne bemoaned the group saying they have no right to make demands to become a country.



To him, there is no need for the government and the group to go the negotiation table as some critics have suggested.



"Some people have suggested that we should hold negotiations with them. Who should negotiate with them? Do we know them? Immediately you do that, then you're legitimizing them," he insisted.



He described the group as a criminal group.



"We don't recognize that group . . . I don't agree with them today, tomorrow or next week. They must know it's a criminal activity like the Vice President said. It is purely criminal to do," he said.



Sam Pyne further urged the security agencies to be proactive and bring the secessionist group to order.



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Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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Model and cookbook author Chrissy Teigen said late Wednesday that she and her husband, musician John Legend, had lost their baby, a son, days after she posted on social media about suffering pregnancy complications.

Driving home from the hospital with no baby, Teigen wrote on Twitter. How can this be real.

Teigen had been hospitalized a few days earlier, and posted about a scramble to hear the heartbeat.

In an emotional Instagram post to her 31 million followers, Teigen wrote Wednesday that despite many blood transfusions, her baby had not been able to get the fluids he needed.

We are shocked and in the kind of deep pain you only hear about, the kind of pain weve never felt before, she wrote.

It was not clear how far along she was in the pregnancy, but last month, Teigen accidentally let it slip that she was expecting a baby boy.

She and Legend are the parents of one daughter, Luna, 4, and a son, Miles, 2. Teigen said in her post they had not decided on their other childrens names until just before they left the hospital.

But we, for some reason, had started to call this little guy in my belly Jack, she wrote. So he will always be Jack to us.

On Wednesday, Legend wrote on Twitter We love you, Jack, followed by five black hearts.

This article originally appeared in The New York Times.
SPRINGFIELD  Darryl Moss, a longtime aide to Mayor Domenic J. Sarno and key liaison between City Hall and the Black community, has been fired for violating the citys social media policy.

The mayor announced earlier this week that Moss was under investigation for a possible violation. Moss and his supporters responded that Moss was being unfairly targeted and denounced a previous news story about the development on the steps of City Hall Wednesday evening.

But, Sarno on Thursday said Moss' termination was a product of the mayors consistent position on the citys social media policy.

Any violation of our social media policy is taken very seriously and as I have stated on many occasions, there is zero tolerance with regards to any violation of this policy. The case involving my Constituent Services Director Darryl Moss has been treated in the same fair and consistent manner as with other similar social media violations. In turn and after proper legal review, I have dismissed Mr. Moss effective immediately," Sarno said.

In the Facebook post that prompted the investigation, Moss shared a link to a Huffington Post article that quoted President Donald J. Trumps defense of Kyle Rittenhouse, a 17-year-old facing multiple homicide charges in connection with a shooting that left two people dead and a third seriously injured during protests in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

This is equal to a declaration of war... but this is America! Sundown Sunrise [expletive] Country, Moss wrote. Tagging a fellow Springfield resident, he added, grab the rifles.

In a statement read during Wednesdays rally on Moss' behalf, he said this Facebook post was a reference to the HBO show Lovecraft Country, set in the 1950s against the backdrop of the Jim Crow era. The phrase Sundown Sunrise included in the post is a reference to the era of segregation during which Black Americans were allowed in all-white communities during the day but faced the threat of violence or arrest after sundown.

The citys lack of formal policies on social media use came to the forefront in 2017, when a city police officer wrote a Facebook post mocking a woman run down and killed by a driver during a protest in Charlottesville, Virginia. The officer was later fired. The police department had no social media policy at the time.

In the immediate wake of that incident, Sarno issued an executive order establishing a policy for non-union city employees.

Earlier this summer, a city police detective was fired after she shared an Instagram photo of her niece at a Black Lives Matter rally in Atlanta. A member of the citys fire department, meanwhile, decided to retire this summer amid an investigation into allegations that he wrote posts aimed at participants in protests against police brutality that officials described as insensitive.

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For Rahul Gujjar, a soybean grower from Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh, the latest changes to the farm marketing setup havent been very beneficial.

Though it is early days, Gujjar says with mandis closed in MP due to an indefinite strike by traders against the three new laws, he is being compelled to sell the early sown varieties of soybean at least Rs 1,200-1,500 below the state mandated minimum support price (MSP) of Rs 3,880 per quintal. In Uttar Pradesh, too, the initial paddy crop was selling much below the MSP of Rs 1,868 per quintal for the past few days at some places. ...
Italy arrested a woman who joined the Islamic State on Tuesday after she and her four children were returned to the country from a displaced persons camp in Syria, according to the Italian authorities.

The repatriation follows a debate that has steadily fallen from the global radar as to whether individuals who joined the Islamic State and other armed groups should return to their countries of origin. And now, as the four children sit in foster care pending a decision by an Italian juvenile court, there is also the mounting challenge of how to reverse indoctrination among minors.

Nobody has the right solution in how to do this, said Lorenzo Vidino, the director of George Washington Universitys Program on Extremism. Its one of the reasons why countries are reluctant [to repatriate]. But there is, generally speaking, a consensus on the moral duty to repatriate the children irrespective of the difficulties that come with that.

Alice Brignoli, her Moroccan-born husband and their three children traveled from the north of Milan to Islamic State-controlled territory in 2015. Alice later gave birth to a fourth child in Syria.

Brignoli and her family were captured by Kurdish forces and brought to Syrias Al-Hol displacement camp. Located in northern Syria close to the Syria-Iraq border, Al-Hol houses displaced individuals from former Islamic State-held territory. As of March 2019 and in the course of only a few months, the camp swelled to 74,000 people, many of which were women and children. As of May 2020, the number lingered at 68,000, including 10,000 foreigners from over 50 countries.

Abandoned by their governments and under the care of the Kurdish-led force that had recently defeated IS, some residents still fly the Islamic State flag and impose their own disciplinary measures.

Authorities confirmed that Brignolis husband died this month at the camp from an intestinal infection. She returned to Italy willingly, Italian Carabinieri Lt. Col. Andrea Leo told the Associated Press, after she was convinced it was her best choice considering the conditions she has lived in over the last five years. Upon returning to Italy, Brignoli was hit with terror-related charges and will face trial.

I didnt think Italy would make the effort to come here and take me away, Brignoli told Italian newspaper The Sheet.

Italian authorities told the Associated Press they hope Brignoli will help them find additional Italian families that joined the radical group.

Italys contingent of foreign fighters that joined the Islamic State and other armed groups is relatively small compared to other Western European countries, but the repatriation debate still rages in national security discussions. Foreign fighters linked to Italy in various forms totaled 135 as of July 2018, according to a study by the International Centre for Counter-Terrorism. That number is dwarfed by the some 1,900 foreign fighters that traveled from France and almost a thousand from Germany and the United Kingdom. Over 90% of Italy's foreign fighters were male and, bucking trends in other European countries, a majority were born abroad.

Italian authorities accused Brignoli of assisting in the radicalization of her children against the West and embracing the cause of global jihadism. The children are in foster care pending a decision by an Italian juvenile court.

Many countries refuse to take their citizens back, citing national security concerns, while some accept returnees on the condition they face terrorism-related charges. But states are far less equipped to deal with the thousands of children that lived or were born in territory held by IS. A PBS Frontline documentary uncovered that alongside witnessing atrocities and being subjected to radical militarized training, children were being taught to conduct suicide attacks against Western targets.

Theres a more proactive approach [in Italy] when it comes to children and the idea is to make an effort to bring them back, Vidino told Al-Monitor, but a lot of European countries are really struggling with this.
Peel but no repeal.

Gas station owners are free to remove the Progressive Conservative governments unconstitutional and inaccurate gas-pump stickers that attack federal carbon pricing measures.

However, Energy Minister Greg Rickford said the Tories will not be repealing the controversial Federal Carbon Tax Transparency Act, which forces stations to post the messages that a judge ruled are unlawful.

No, theres no need to. We remain committed to a fair, transparent, cost-effective energy sector, Rickford told reporters Thursday at Queens Park.

His comments came the morning after Premier Doug Fords cabinet decided not appeal a Sept. 4 decision by Mr. Justice Edward Morgan of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice.

Morgan found the mandatory Tory-blue stickers  reading the federal carbon tax will cost you  violated business owners freedom of expression.

While we respect the decision of the court, we remain committed to making sure that the people of Ontario understand that ... the carbon tax ... is an escalator tax, said Rickford.

He conceded that gas stations can now peel off the stickers without any penalties, but said the government has more decals if any businesses wish to voluntarily display them.

The judges ruling cited Rickfords April 2019 comment that were going to stick it to the Liberals and remind the people of Ontario how much this job-killing regressive carbon tax costs.

A government or political party can, in the words of Ontarios Minister of Energy stick it to another tier of government or political party as a matter of free speech in an election campaign or otherwise, wrote Morgan in a 17-page decision that said the decals featured an inaccurate message.

But a government cannot legislate a requirement that private retailers post a sticker designed to accomplish that task. The mandatory fuel pump sticker is an unconstitutional attempt to do just that.

The Canadian Civil Liberties Association, which had taken the Tories to court over the decals, hailed the move not to appeal the ruling.

So the law is gone, thanks to the efforts of Canadas rights watchdog since 1964, the CCLA said in a statement, noting the stickers were unconstitutional compelled speech to promote a political message.

NDP Leader Andrea Horwath said Ontarians deserve to know the cost of the decal debacle  and that the PC Party should foot the tab.

This was partisan activity. It was done for purely political purposes. They should give a public accounting of how much money was spent on this hare-brained initiative, said Horwath.

They should make a commitment that the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario reimburse the people of Ontario, she said, adding the law should be removed from the books.

Green Leader Mike Schreiner said its just ridiculous and embarrassing that the premier thought he could get away with this stunt.

He wanted to penalize small businesses with a $10,000 (daily) fine if they failed to display his shameful, misleading anti-climate stickers, said Schreiner.

The fact that theyre not going to just completely get rid of the act ... to me highlights how tone deaf they are on this issue, he said.

Launched last year as part of Fords $30-million campaign against the federal Liberal governments carbon-pricing regime, the decals been problematic.

To the frustration of the premier, whose family runs a label business, there were adhesive issues. His company did not print the stickers, 25,000 of which were made at a cost of $4,954.

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce renounced the decals as an example of unnecessary red tape that could drive private retailers out of business due to onerous fines.

Robert Benzie is the Stars Queens Park bureau chief and a reporter covering Ontario politics. Follow him on Twitter: @robertbenzie

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WASHINGTON, D.C. - Robert Murray, the former CEO and president of an Ohio coal company that spent years fighting federal mine safety regulations aimed at reducing black lung disease, has filed a U.S. Department of Labor application for black lung benefits, according to a report from West Virginia Public Broadcasting and the Ohio Valley ReSource.

A press spokesman for Belmont County-based Murray Energy, which filed for bankruptcy last year, declined to comment on the report.

According to the American Lung Association, the disease known as black lung disease occurs when coal dust is inhaled. Over time, continued exposure to the coal dust causes scarring in the lungs, impairing your ability to breathe. Considered an occupational lung disease, it is most common among coal miners. A Department of Labor program provides monthly payments and medical benefits to coal miners totally disabled from the disease.

According to the benefits claim the outlet obtained, 80-year-old Murray says he is near death and depends on an oxygen tank. Documents associated with his claim cite North American Coal Corporation as a potentially liable party for Murrays condition. They say he started off as a miner at the company in 1957 and rose through its ranks to become president before leaving after 30 years to found Murray Energy in 1988.

Murray Energy filed for bankruptcy protection last year amid reduced demands for coal after power producers switched to less polluting energy sources , such as natural gas. The company has been an active political player over the years, making large donations to Republican politicians whom it hoped would reverse the coal industrys fortunes.

After donating $300,000 to President Donald Trumps inauguration, Robert Murray presented Trump with a list of policy requests. Trump acted on several of them, including pulling out of the Paris Climate Accord, repealing a Clean Power Plan implemented by the Obama Administration, and cutting staff at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The companys political action committee continued donating to Trumps re-election efforts, even as it was on the verge of bankruptcy.

Murray Energy has also been linked to, but not implicated in, the federal bribery case against former Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder. The Columbus Dispatch identified it as Company B in legal documents associated with the case, which gave $100,000 to a dark money group that played a central role in the scandal that resulted in passage of a bailout for a pair of nuclear power plants that were owned by a FirstEnergy subsidiary.

West Virginia Public Broadcasting and the Ohio Valley ReSource reported that Murray Energy has disputed claims made by miners who seek black lung benefits after working at his firm, and has also been at the forefront of combatting federal regulations that attempt to reduce black lung, an incurable and ultimately fatal lung disease caused by exposure to coal and rock dust.

Their report says the company spearheaded a lawsuit against the Obama administration over a federal rule that tightened exposure standards to coal dust at a time that evidence was mounting that Appalachia was seeing a deadly resurgence in the most severe form of black lung, after reaching historic lows in the 1990s.

Today, in 2020, were seeing more miners with more advanced black lung than the country has ever seen," Wes Addington, head of a nonprofit law firm called Appalachian Citizens' Law Center that represents miners in black lung benefits cases, told West Virginia Public Broadcasting and the Ohio Valley ReSource. And yet, the industry over the past 10 to 20 years, has consistently fought against any regulation that would try to limit the amount of dust that miners breathe. Murray Energy has been part of that fight, along with a number of the largest coal companies in the country.

Murray Energys bankruptcy shifted the companys obligation to pay black lung benefits to its miners to the federal Black Lung Disability Trust Fund, the outlets reported.

Read more:

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Senate Committee approves three Ohio federal judge candidates after members voice concerns about Cuyahoga Countys J. Philip Calabrese

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ATLANTA, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- A new artificial intelligence (AI)-based application promises to reinvent the revenue cycle for hospitals and healthcare organizations by building a "digital employee" that will recognize vulnerabilities in an organization's revenue cycle and reduce errors that impact profitability.

Trusted Revenue Innovation for Smart Healthcare  TRISH  will analyze the areas of the revenue cycle that are most problematic for healthcare organizations: eligibility, authorizations, pre-certification, claims status, and the like. TRISH will reduce the administrative burden without human intervention, learn & adapt as new variables are introduced and ensure accurate reimbursement without endless iterations of re-work.

TRISH is the result of a joint venture between the Healthcare Advisory Group of Windham Brannon, the Atlanta-based accounting and consulting firm, and Deep Indigo, a data science firm with proven success delivering artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) solutions across multiple industry verticals. The joint venture is called SHOAR Health, LLC (SHOAR, for Smart Health Operations and Revenue Solutions).

"The revenue cycle is extremely rigorous," Windham Brannon Healthcare Practice Leader Valerie Barckhoff said. "HIPAA laws back in 1996 gave us an outline for how to communicate the pieces back and forth, but healthcare organizations still struggle to manage the data. Reducing errors and inefficiencies can ultimately reduce the cost of doing business for healthcare organizations, increase revenue, and allow hospitals to focus on taking care of patients," Barckhoff said.

Barckhoff teamed up with Vipin Ramani, of Deep Indigo, to match her extensive revenue cycle expertise with his AI/ML expertise to develop TRISH. Ramani holds B.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Electrical Engineering and AI from Georgia Tech and holds more than forty (40) patents. He has created applications for industries spanning financial services, law, accounting, government, manufacturing, transportation, and retail. His AI/ML solutions have been deployed at organizations like Bank of America, the United States Air Force, and Northrop Grumman.

In healthcare organizations, key areas that create revenue leaks include:

1. Poor front-end data

2. Missing or delayed referral

3. Missing prior authorization

4. Ineffective use of billing edits

5. Lagging collection times

6. Inconsistent follow-up

7. Poor denials management

Each of these areas represents a function typically rife with administrative confusion, significant human staff intervention, and frequent re-work. Accurate reimbursement is compromised, and, in many cases, patient care is impacted by preventable delays and uncertainty. TRISH promises to correct and automate the associated workflow and free staff to pursue higher value efforts.

As Barckhoff says, "Go into most business offices and less and less will you find staff on a phone with an insurance company. Rather, they will be clicking through a payer web portal to secure an authorization, provide requested documentation, or seek a claim status day by day. With TRISH, the authorization request will be initiated automatically, and TRISH will continue to seek that approval until it is secured and held for eventual bill drop and payment."

True AI/ML technologies remain basically non-existent within healthcare provider environments. What exists today is largely robotic process automation (RPA) that requires ongoing rule maintenance and significant human intervention to achieve successful outcomes. SHOAR is actively implementing TRISH in select client environments and remains available to deliver TRISH to interested organizations regardless of size or geography. The implementation process is relatively short, involving a comprehensive workflow analysis and customization of the ML tools to meet the specific requirements of each client's unique workflow needs  becoming a true complement, rather than burden, to a hospital's existing human staff.

About SHOAR Health, LLC

SHOAR Health, LLC combines the deep Revenue Cycle expertise of Windham Brannon and the Artificial Intelligence power of Deep Indigo. With more than three decades of experience in the healthcare industry and implementing AI solutions, SHOAR Health, LLC will transform your revenue cycle using machine learning and artificial intelligence solutions. Valerie Barckhoff partners with Vipin Ramani, Ph. D of Deep Indigo to bring hospitals and healthcare organizations an optimized and reinvented revenue cycle. Additional information can be requested at www.shoar.com or via email at [email protected].

About Windham Brannon

Windham Brannon is a recognized leader in providing tax, assurance, accounting and advisory services for businesses and individuals across numerous industries. While the firm's technical expertise is second to none, Windham Brannon offers clients so much more. Clients find a more proactive approach, more attention to their priorities and more investment in their relationship to ensure needs are anticipatedand met with confidence. Windham Brannon takes pride in the fact that it is re-defining the role of the typical CPA firm. Visit www.windhambrannon.com to find out how Windham Brannon is committed to offering more to you and your business.

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USA, European Union and Canada have questioned India's agriculture trade practices and farmer friendly policies at a recent meeting of the Committee on Agriculture (CoA) of the World Trade Organisation (WTO). The volley of questions has come at a time when India has amended its laws to further liberalise its agricultural trade and allow farmers and agri-businesses the freedom to produce, procure, store and sell agri-produce anywhere in the country and outside without government regulation.

The developed country members complain that India's trade practices are not transparent enough and seek more data on the trade of agricultural goods.

ALSO READ: New farm laws threaten India's ability to impose high tariffs on imported agri-produce

The CoA meeting, held on September 22-23 saw USA seeking response from India over the disclosure made by Food Corporation of India (FCI) that India had exported rice to Egypt commercially in 2016-17 and for humanitarian purposes in 2017-18. The USA saw this as an apparent contradiction to India's stand that the government does not undertake exports on a commercial basis from public stockholdings. The USA wanted India to explain how the country enforces the 'prohibition' of exports on a commercial basis from public stockholdings. India was also asked to provide details of the pricing methodology that is being followed while food grains from public stockholding is offloaded in the open market for domestic sales.

Quoting India's position that 'open market sales of food grains from public stockholding are made provided the buyer gives an undertaking of not exporting from such purchases', the US wanted the country to explain how the buyer gives the undertaking and how it is enforced.

ALSO READ: Farm Bills Row: Farmers plan massive protests in Delhi in November

The meeting also saw European Union (EU) seeking details of India's agricultural loan waivers. Noting that India has allocated $18 billion for distribution and buffer stock of food grains, EU wanted to know how much of this amount is used for distribution and how much on operating the buffer stocks. EU also sought a breakup of India's $24.18 billion input subsidies to understand how much of this amount is going towards irrigation, fertilisers, electricity and fuel, mainly, diesel. Quoting India's official figures of total milled rice production of 116 million tonnes in 2018/19, EU asked why was 44.33 million tonnes of this was used by the country in its calculation of the market price support. "Can India please explain in detail why the remaining 72 million tonnes did not benefit from the administered price? Did this rice not fulfil the same quality criteria as the 44.33 million tonnes bought in? Which are the criteria?" the EU questioned.

Meanwhile, Canada sought details of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) programme. "Could India clarify who is eligible for this programme and what are the criteria that determined eligibility for a payment? Could India indicate if payment levels are determined by income of producers and if so, what is the defined and fixed base period used to define eligibility?" the country asked. Canada also expressed doubt over the eligibility of India's Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) to be qualified for a "Green Box" or permitted subsidy treatment under WTO.

ALSO READ: Farm bills get President's nod; Opposition says 'dark day for democracy
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 1)  Only 26 of 95 booked tourists arrived on the first day of Boracays reopening and this is expected when it comes to the stringent restrictions the province has implemented in the famous destination, a local official said.

Governor Florencio Miraflores told CNN Philippines on Thursday that the low turnout can be attributed to the protocols requiring tourists to have a negative RT-PCR test result 48 hours prior to travel, aside from many other factors.

We feel that this is necessary so that we can protect our people here in the island and the province of Aklan, he said.

Miraflores added that people are still afraid to travel because of the pandemic, that is why the provincial government is making sure to strictly implement the minimum safety and health protocols

We expected this because of the pandemic, people are still afraid to travel," he said. "We in Boracay, here in Aklan, we also want to ensure that when the tourists come, they will feel safe and confident enough.

Boracay has maintained a zero COVID-19 record since it opened its doors to tourists from Western Visayas on June 16.

Miraflores said the island wants to be ready once it receives an influx of tourists in the coming months as soon as people feel safe to travel for leisure.

Tourists are required to wear face masks unless during swimming sessions. There is also no liquor ban in the island but discos and bars will remain closed.
Abhishek Bachchan has replied to yet another detractor on social media with grace. The actor often responds to his critics online, and this time was no different.

After Abhishek expressed his excitement on Twitter at the news of movie theatres reopening after several months of coronavirus-induced lockdown, one person wrote, But arent you still gonna be jobless? Abhishek wrote back, That, alas, is in your (the audiences) hand. If you dont like our work, we wont get our next job. So we work to the best of our abilities and hope and pray for the best.

That, alas, is in your (the audiences) hand. If you dont like our work, we wont get our next job. So we work to the best of our abilities and hope and pray for the best.   Abhishek Bachchan (@juniorbachchan) September 30, 2020

Abhishek, is, of course, no stranger to responding to online attacks with wit. In September, when a person pointed out that Abhishek (an insider in Bollywood) had more social media followers than Prachi Desai (an outsider), the actor wrote, I assure you Mr Singhal the amount of followers you have on social media is by no means a barometer of acceptance or popularity or talent. My friend @ItsPrachiDesai is a very talented actor and doesnt need social media to endorse that. Her work speaks for itself. When another person noted that Abhisheks fans follow him on social media voluntarily, the actor wrote, Absolutely.

The actor wasnt spared even during his recent coronavirus scare. While admitted in hospital with his father, Amitabh Bachchan, a Twitter user wrote to Abhishek, Your father admitted in hospital... Ab kiske bharose baith ke khaoge? (who will feed you now) The actor had written back, Filhaal toh let ke kha rahe hain dono saath aspatal mein (right now both of us are being well fed at the hospital). The troll replied, Get well soon sir... Har kisi ki kismat me let ke khana kaha (not everyone has the good fortune to be well taken care of). To this, Abhishek responded, I pray that you are never in a situation like ours and that you remain safe and healthy. Thank you for your wishes, maam.

Also read: Man shames Abhishek Bachchan for having more followers than Prachi Desai, actor has a graceful reply

Abhishek, who along with his father, wife Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and daughter Aaradhya, recently recovered from the coronavirus, was last seen in Amazon Primes Breathe: Into the Shadows. The actor has several projects lined up, including The Big Bull, which will be released on Disney+ Hotstar, and Ludo, which is due out on Netflix.

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WASHINGTON, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Edgybees, the industry's leading provider of geo-registration technology for real-time, full motion video announced today that it has been awarded a $950,000,000 ceiling indefinite-delivery/indefinite quantity contract for the maturation, demonstration and proliferation of capability across platforms and domains, leveraging open systems design, modern software and algorithm development in order to enable Joint All Domain Command and Control (JADC2). This contract is part of a multiple award multi-level security effort to provide development and operation of systems as a unified force across all domains (air, land, sea, space, cyber, and electromagnetic spectrum) in an open architecture family of systems that enables capabilities via multiple integrated platforms.

Today's contract follows a round of awards Edgybees received from the US Air Force at the end of last year, most recently by the AFventures STRATFI Strategic Finance Program.

Edgybees' software-only solution performs near real-time, high-accuracy, reliable geo-rectification of full motion video, agnostic of the payload and modality. The resulting geo-registered video enhances a wide range of situational awareness and operational solutions including reduction in Sensor-to-Shooter timeline and complexity, GPS-Independent Self-Positioning, FMV Augmentation, Object Detection and Tracking, and 3D Modelling.

"ABMS will transform the future battlespace for the US Air Force by delivering the right data at the right place and time enabling rapid, critical decision making," said Adam Kaplan, CEO and co-founder of Edgybees. "Edgybees is honored to be able to support the Air Force's JADC2 vision with our real-time geo-rectification software."

About Edgybees

Edgybees is the industry's leading provider of geo-registration technology for real-time, full motion video, agnostic of payload and modality. By geo-registering video, Edgybees' software-only solution enhances a wide range of situational awareness and operational solutions including GPS-Independent Self-Positioning, FMV Augmentation, Object Detection and Tracking, and 3D Modelling. Edgybees' award winning software is used by first responders, military, industrial, and media organizations.

For more information about enabling real-time, reliable decision making with Edgybees geo-registered full motion video, visit https://www.edgybees.com/ .

Contact:

Adam Kaplan

[email protected]

1-408-438-3251

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LAKEWOOD, CO / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / General Moly, Inc. (the "Company") (TSX:GMO), the only western-exchange listed, pure-play molybdenum mineral development company, today announced that the staff of NYSE Regulation has determined to commence proceedings to delist the Company's common stock from the NYSE American Exchange. Trading in the Company's common stock has been suspended.

As previously announced, the Company is currently below compliance with the $2 million, $4 million, and $6 million stockholders' equity requirements of Sections 1003(a)(i), (ii), and (iii) of the NYSE American Company Guide (the "Company Guide"), respectively. The Company informed the Exchange that it does not intend to submit a business plan that would result in compliance with the applicable Exchange continued listing requirements. As a result, NYSE Regulation has determined that the Company is no longer suitable for listing pursuant to Section 1009 of the Company Guide. In addition, the Company had also fallen below the low selling price requirement of Section 1003(f)(v) of the Company Guide.

The NYSE American will apply to the Securities and Exchange Commission to delist the Company's securities upon completion of all applicable procedures, including any appeal by the Company of the NYSE Regulation staff's decision.

The Company has a significant working capital deficit and there remains substantial doubt about the Company's ability to continue as a going concern. If the Company is unable to find an additional source of funding, it will be forced to cease operations and pursue restructuring or liquidation alternatives, including the filing for bankruptcy protection, in which event the Company's common stock would likely become worthless and investors would likely lose their entire investment in the Company. In addition, holders of the Company's outstanding convertible preferred stock and senior notes would likely receive significantly less than the principal amount of their claims and possibly, no recovery at all. As of the date of this news release, the Company has no commitments for additional funding and there can be no assurance that the Company will be successful in obtaining the financing required to complete the Mt. Hope Project, or in raising additional financing in the future on terms acceptable to the Company, or at all.

About General Moly

General Moly is a U.S.-based, molybdenum mineral exploration and development company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol GMO. The Company's primary asset, an 80% interest in the Mt. Hope Project located in central Nevada, is considered one of the world's largest and highest grade molybdenum deposits. General Moly's goal is to become the largest primary molybdenum producer in the world.

Molybdenum is a metallic element used primarily as an alloy agent in steel manufacturing. When added to steel, molybdenum enhances steel strength, resistance to corrosion and extreme temperature performance. In the chemical and petrochemical industries, molybdenum is used in catalysts, especially for cleaner burning fuels by removing sulfur from liquid fuels, and in corrosion inhibitors, high performance lubricants and polymers.

Contact:

Scott Roswell

(303) 928-8591

info@generalmoly.com

Website: www.generalmoly.com

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements herein that are not historical facts are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and are intended to be covered by the safe harbor created by such sections. Such forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected, anticipated, expected, or implied by the Company. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to availability of cash to continue ongoing operations and the possibility of seeking bankruptcy protection, that COVID-19 is having and will continue to have an effect on financing efforts to improve liquidity, availability of insurance, metals price and production volatility, global economic conditions, currency fluctuations, increased production costs and variances in ore grade or recovery rates from those assumed in mining plans, exploration risks and results, reclamation risks, political, operational and project development risks, ability to maintain required federal and state permits to continue construction, and commence production of molybdenum, copper, silver, lead or zinc, ability to identify any economic mineral reserves of copper, silver, lead or zinc; ability of the Company to obtain approval of its joint venture partner at the Mt. Hope Project in order to mine for molybdenum, copper, silver, lead or zinc, ability to raise required project financing or funding to pursue an exploration program related to potential copper, silver lead or zinc deposits at Mt. Hope, ability to respond to adverse governmental regulation and judicial outcomes, and ability to maintain and /or adjust estimates related to cost of production, capital, operating and exploration expenditures. For a detailed discussion of risks and other factors that may impact these forward looking statements, please refer to the Risk Factors and other discussion contained in the Company's quarterly and annual periodic reports on Forms 10-Q and 10-K, on file with the SEC. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements.

SOURCE: General Moly, Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/608659/General-Moly-Announces-NYSE-American-Suspends-Trading-in-Common-Stock-and-Commences-Delisting-Proceedings
Joined by Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will lead tractor rallies across Punjab from October 3 to 5, in protest against the Centre's recently enacted farm laws, party sources said on Thursday.

All Punjab Ministers and Congress MLAs will participate in the protest rallies, along with AICC General Secretary in-charge of Punjab affairs, Harish Rawat, and state president Sunil Jakhar, to give voice to the angst and pain of the farmers, whose livelihood and future has been put at stake by the central legislations, the party said.

The tractor rallies, expected to be supported by farmer organisations across the state, will cover more than 50 kms, spread over three days in various districts and constituencies, according to a Punjab Congress spokesperson.

The rallies are scheduled at around 11 a.m. on each of the three days, and will be conducted amid strict Covid protocols.

On the last day, October 5, the protest will enter Haryana, for a series of programmes there.
The thing is, though, these kinds of bots have been an irritating component of online discussions since Usenet -- a precursor to Reddit and other discussion board-type sites that was invented in prehistoric times (i.e., the 1980's), where hobbyists and fans of, well, anything, could link up and discuss . And it was a beautiful site ... until he arrived.

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In 1994, Usenet came under attack from a sophisticated spammer calling themselves "Serdar Argic." If someone posted a message containing the word "Turkey," Argic would swiftly appear and subject them to a long, rambling diatribe about how the Ottoman Empire totally didn't genocide over 1.5 million Armenians between 1914 and 1923 ... and how actually it was the other way around.

American Red Cross It wasn't.

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Argic's posts would bring the entire site to a standstill, as veteran posters showed up to debunk his horseshit and/or tell him to piss off, while newbies showed up to antagonize him further ... which would result in him posting more deranged essays ... which brought more debunkers and antagonizers ... which brought more essays ... which brought more debunkers and antagonizers ... which brought more, you get the point.

Eventually, a crack team was formed to take Argic down for good. However, they soon found out that they couldn't because Argic was nothing more than a bot programmed to respond to any post which contained the word "turkey," regardless of whether the post was about the country or the delicious animal. Worse still, they couldn't shut off the bot because the hosting platform appeared to be hosted by Argic himself.

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In response, Usenet was forced to adopt more stringent moderation policies, which in some communities translated to moderators having to manually read and approve every post made to their newsgroups. That's how toxic Argic was: when faced with the choice between reading the internet's innermost thoughts or dealing with this one guy's bullshit, they happily chose the former.

Whether because of these policies or because his parents finally evicted him, Argic vanished off Usenet within several months -- leaving behind several devastated newsgroups, a keyboard coated in chicken tendies crumbs, and a terrifying vision of what the internet would become.

Adam Wears is (allegedly) a comedy writer. Want to read other articles he's written for Cracked? Click here! Want to follow him on Twitter? Click here! Want to check out his website? Click here!
As consumers continue to flock online for a growing number of purchases, smaller-sized companies can be at a competitive disadvantage simply because they failed to position their businesses for online expansion.

To address this, Mastercard is now offering a free, online tool to help SMBs. The Small Business Digital Readiness Diagnostic is designed to help entrepreneurs future-proof their businesses for a digital world, the company said today.

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This diagnostic assessment platform is part of Mastercards digital doors program, which offers businesses a variety of tools to maximize their digital presence, the company said.

Dimitrios Dosis, president of advisers for Mastercard, said that in the midst of a massive shift to digital spending, businesses everywhere and of every size are trying to appeal to a changed and changing consumer and noted that with this latest tool, our mission is to help as many small businesses as possible better understand and expand their digital capabilities so they are positioned to seize the online opportunity and future-proof their business.

Why focus on SMBs? Well, according to Mastercards own research, 76 percent of small businesses across North America said the pandemic prompted them to become more digital.

Mastercard described the Digital Readiness Diagnostic tool as a carefully developed solution that gauges a business strengths and weaknesses across the digital space and generates customized recommendations to help owners meet the needs of todays digital environment.

The assessment looks at several aspects of a business, which include a companys overarching business strategy, its management and operations, how it is positioned for growth, how it makes payments, and how it protects employees and customers in the current climate.

Based on the online evaluation, the diagnostic tool provides a performance score and benchmarks a business against industry best practices to provide clarity on how well-equipped the business is for the digital future, the company said adding that it also provides customized, expert recommendations on considerations for each of the assessed dimensions to drive greater efficiency and effectiveness.

Story continues

By way of a case study, Mastercard shared the story of Michelle Cadore, founder of the Yes I Am clothing brand and the DA SPOT NYC boutique in New York. Cadore was forced to shutter her doors for six months when the COVID-19 pandemic struck.

Fortunate for Cadore, she was able to quickly pivot her business and focus on online sales, and partnerships with online retailers, Mastercard noted. In June, seeing the shift in consumer behavior she added curbside pickup to her customer offerings. DA SPOT NYC reopened to the public in September, and Cadore is welcoming back foot traffic under new retail guidelines while continuing to reinforce her digital presence.

Mastercard said in an uncertain retail environment Cadore wanted to ensure that she can continue to serve her customers and her community without interruption.

Cadore said DA SPOT NYC sells over 25 local and independent creative brands so having our doors closed impacted more than just my bottom line, she said.

By shifting our focus to e-commerce, we were able to stay connected to our customer base and keep our creative community alive, Cadore explained. We realized the strength of our online presence in this new environment, and by working closely with Mastercard were able to identify additional digital resources to improve our business efficiencies and customer engagement.
Hours after telling supporters in Minnesota that his Democratic rival, Joe Biden, would turn the state into a giant refugee camp, President Donald Trumps administration announced historic cuts to the country's refugee admission program.

The administration told Congress late Wednesday night that it planned to bring no more than 15,000 refugees fleeing war and persecution to the United States in fiscal year 2021, compared to the maximum 18,000 permitted in 2020.

Trump has cut the countrys refugee intake three times before, first slashing former President Barack Obamas quota by more than half, to 50,000, during his first year in office. The State Department cited a backlog of 1.1 million asylum cases and defended the new 15,000-person ceiling as one that reflects administrations continuing commitment to prioritize the safety and well-being of Americans, especially in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic."

According to a statement from the State Department, there will be specific allocations for religiously persecuted refugees, Iraqis whose work with the United States has put them in danger, and refugees from El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong, Cuba and Venezuela.

Trump, who has sought to limit both legal and undocumented immigration during his presidency, warned during a campaign rally in Duluth, Minnesota, on Wednesday evening that Biden would increase refugee admissions from the most dangerous places in the world including Yemen, Syria and your favorite country, Somalia.

Minnesota has one of the highest populations of refugees per capita in the nation. Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.), who came to the United States from Somalia as a child, is a favorite target of the president.

Biden will turn Minnesota into a refugee camp, and he said that  overwhelming public resources, overcrowding schools and inundating hospitals. You know that. Its already there. Its a disgrace what theyve done to your state, Trump told the crowd.

At 125,000 refugees, Bidens proposal quota is significantly higher than Trumps but more in line with those of past presidents. Prior to the current administration, the United States had admitted an average of 95,000 refugees per year since the modern refugee program was created in 1980.

Trump has drawn criticism among Evangelicals, a group whose support he sought in 2016, for failing to do more to protect refugees, in particular those fleeing religious persecution. In a letter this month, more than 200 bishops and reverends from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America urged the White House to restore refugee intake to the previously typical levels.

Trumps order comes amid the worlds worst refugee crisis on record, with waves of displacement from countries such as Syria, Myanmar and Afghanistan. By the end of 2019, 79.5 million people were forcibly displaced from their homes, according to the United Nations. Of those, 26 million were refugees.

Those fleeing violence, war and religious persecution in the region have had the door slammed shut on them, both because of drastic cuts in admissions, as well as xenophobic bans that discriminate based on national origin, said Krish OMara Vignarajah, president and CEO of Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, a nonprofit that works with the federal government to resettle refugees.

Its unconscionable that, of the countless families who have been forced from their homes in Yemen, literally only one person was resettled in the United States this past year, she told Al-Monitor.

Yemen is embroiled in a civil war that, according to the United Nations, has created the worlds worst humanitarian crisis. An estimated 24 million people  some 80% of the population  are reliant on humanitarian assistance.

Of the 11,814 refugees resettled in the United States this fiscal year, just 481 came from Syria. Since the uprising in 2011, more than half of Syrias pre-war population of over 12.7 million people has been forced to flee their homes.

The Trump administrations refugee proposal arrived as lawmakers complained they had not been consulted on the numbers, as legally required. This week, congressional aides told Al-Monitor that the Democratic leadership on the House and Senate Judiciary committees was not made aware of the admissions plan.

Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill), ranking member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, and Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif), ranking member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, said the administration had dropped Americas moral standing to a new low.

President Trump has harsher words for innocent refugees than for the dictators they are escaping, they said in a statement Thursday.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially launched its campaign to secure an elected non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the term 2022-2023.

The announcement was made during the UAEs statement at the General Debate of the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly delivered by Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, said a Wam news agency report.

"My country will follow the same steps and principles upon which it was founded to maintain international peace and security in cooperation with the members of the Council," said Sheikh Abdullah. "We recognise the significant responsibility associated with membership on the Security Council and the extensive challenges the Council faces, and we affirm that the UAE will work towards solving the important issues confronting states with resolve and determination. In doing so, we will be guided by our understanding of these crises, our experiences in the Arab region, and our close relationships with other states. My country will continue its call for involving regional organisations in finding permanent solutions for crises, and we count on your support to achieve these goals."

In June 2021, the UN General Assembly will elect five member states to serve as non-permanent members of the Security Council for the 2022-2023 term. The council has a total of 10 non-permanent members who serve overlapping two-year terms.

The announcement today follows the UAEs endorsement by the League of Arab States in 2012 and by the Asia-Pacific Group in June 2020. The UAE has been a member state of the UN since its founding in December 1971. The UAE had previously served on the Security Council in 1986-1987.

Under the theme "Stronger United," the UAEs campaign for a non-permanent seat on the Security Council will focus on efforts to advance inclusion, spur innovation, build resilience and secure peace.

"Serving on the Security Council is a serious responsibility. On the Council, the UAE will be a constructive partner in helping to address the critical challenges of our time," said Lana Nusseibeh, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the UAE to the UN. "As the Covid-19 pandemic has proven yet again, in todays interconnected world, no member of the international community is safe unless every member is safe. The UAE stands ready to do its part by promoting gender equality, fostering tolerance, countering terrorism and extremism, building resiliency to climate change, prioritizing humanitarian relief, tackling global health crises, and harnessing the potential of innovation for peace. The UAE will work tirelessly to help the Security Council address these critical challenges in the years ahead."
***Editors note: Photos available upon request

WASHINGTON, Oct. 1, 2020  The American Chemical Society (ACS) and the Brazilian Chemical Society (SBQ) have announced this years winners of the Brazilian Women in Chemistry and Related Sciences awards. The accolades are designed to promote gender equality in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in Brazil and to advance understanding of the impact of diversity on scientific research and the field of chemistry. The winners will be honored on Oct. 15 during a symposium on fighting inequity in science, which will be part of SBQs 43rd Annual Meeting.

Paola de Azevedo Mello, Ph.D., associate professor of chemistry at the Federal University of Santa Maria, won the Emerging Leader Award, which recognizes the achievements of an outstanding young chemical scientist or entrepreneur.

Ana Flavia Nogueira, Ph.D., associate professor of chemistry at the University of Campinas, earned the Leadership In Academia Award. This award honors an established academic who has made an important contribution with a global and societal impact on scientific research in chemistry or a related science.

Sonia Maria Cabral de Menezes, Ph.D., petroleum chemist and senior consultant at Petrobras, garnered the Leadership In Industry Award. It recognizes an industrial chemist whose research and creative innovations have led to discoveries that contributed to commercial success and the good of the community and society.

Through our collaboration with the Brazilian Chemical Society and other supporting organizations, we have been able to identify three outstanding individuals who are working to advance the chemical sciences in Brazil and beyond, says Bibiana Campos Seijo, Ph.D., editor-in-chief of ACS weekly news periodical Chemical & Engineering News (C&EN) and vice president of C&EN Media Group. We will celebrate their talent and contributions at an event that will bring many great scientists together to develop action steps to create a more diverse and inclusive environment for all. The awards are co-sponsored by C&EN and CAS, a division of ACS, and receive support from ACS and SBQ. This is the third year they have been given out.

Each winner will receive a $2,000 cash prize, a three-year CAS SciFindern subscription, a three-year ACS membership and an award certificate.

The American Chemical Society (ACS) is a nonprofit organization chartered by the U.S. Congress. ACS mission is to advance the broader chemistry enterprise and its practitioners for the benefit of Earth and its people. The Society is a global leader in providing access to chemistry-related information and research through its multiple research solutions, peer-reviewed journals, scientific conferences, eBooks and weekly news periodical Chemical & Engineering News. ACS journals are among the most cited, most trusted and most read within the scientific literature; however, ACS itself does not conduct chemical research. As a specialist in scientific information solutions (including SciFinder and STN), its CAS division powers global research, discovery and innovation. ACS main offices are in Washington, D.C., and Columbus, Ohio.
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Indonesia and South Korea have strengthened their business ties with investments worth trillions of rupiah that will also create thousands of job opportunities in the Southeast Asian country.

A recent visit of State-Owned Enterprises Minister Erick Thohir and Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) head Bahlil Lahadalia to Seoul resulted in at least three business deals, Foreign Minister Retno LP Marsudi said on Wednesday.

South Korean glass manufacturer KC Glass Co. Ltd. is set to invest Rp 5.1 trillion (US$342.9 million) in a deal that can help employ up to 1,300 Indonesian workers.

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Protest marches were taken out at many places in against the gangrape in Uttar Pradesh's Hathras, with some demonstrators demanding capital punishment for the culprits.

The protests were organised by various social outfits and Dalit organisations on Thursday at several places including Kaithal, Yamunanagar, Fatehabad and Rohtak.

At Bahadurgarh, the protesters burnt an effigy of the Uttar Pradesh government and raised slogans against the BJP led regime for its alleged failure to manage law and order.

Our demand is that the culprits should be hanged, said a protester in Yamunanagar's Radaur.

Congress president Kumari Selja hit out at the Uttar Pradesh government over the incident, asking why did they delay registering a case?



Is it a crime being a daughter of a poor Dalit, does she not have a right to seek justice?, she said in a tweet.

Selja also asked, why did the victim's family not get the right to conduct her last rites?



A 19-year-old Dalit woman was allegedly raped by four upper-caste men in Hathras on September 14. She was referred to the Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi on Monday with spinal cord injuries, paralysis and cuts in her tongue. She died around 3 am on Tuesday.

Her death and subsequent cremation in the dead of the night in Hathras allegedly under police pressure on Tuesday triggered outrage across the country over the law and order situation in Uttar Pradesh and over women safety in general.

The Chandigarh unit of the Congress took out a candle march here on Wednesday evening condemning the horrific incident.

The party's Chandigarh unit president Pradeep Chhabra while condemning the incident, alleged that criminals were having a free run in Uttar Pradesh under the BJP rule.

"It is unfortunate that the BJP which talks about Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao has the worst track record of crimes against women in states ruled by it, he said.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Pipeline

1 October 2020

Today Replay Destinations, YOTEL and BENCHMARK, a global hospitality company, announced the expected opening date, operations structure and the general manager for a new hotel that will open this ski season in Park City. Developed by Replay Destinations in Canyons Village at the base of Park City Mountain Resort, YOTELPAD Park City will be the newest hotel to open in Park City and the first YOTELPAD concept to open globally.

YOTELPAD Park City began construction in spring 2019 and is scheduled for completion in November 2020. The condominium residences include technology and design innovations that create affordable, livable residences at one of North America's most sought-after mountain resort destinations. As part of the YOTELPAD experience, condominium owners who desire to include their residences in the rental program when they are not in Park City will be part of a global network marketing to guests seeking innovative experiences in an environment with innovative design. Following the recent opening of YOTEL London along with the next YOTEL in Washington DC, YOTEL has 15 hotels in operation and another 13 hotels under development in major destinations globally plus an additional three YOTELPADs under construction in Miami, Geneva and Dubai.

To provide local and mountain resort expertise YOTEL has partnered with Benchmark, a global hospitality company, to lead the day-to-day operations of YOTELPAD Park City. Since acquiring Gemstone Hotels & Resorts four years ago, Benchmark has had a strong local presence in Park City. In addition to managing ski properties in Park City, Lake Tahoe, Jackson Hole and Vail, Benchmark is a global hospitality company that has a combined portfolio of over 70 unique projects across three continents. "The construction of YOTELPAD Park City is on track for completion and opening for business November 2020, in time for the 2020/2021 ski season", said Paul Jorgensen, CEO of Replay Destinations. "Condominium sales have steadily increased since July, demonstrating strong market demand for the YOTELPAD concept and excitement for the upcoming ski season. We could not be more pleased that YOTEL and Benchmark are collaborating on the management and operations of YOTELPAD Park City, and between the two organizations our owners and guests will have access to a set of unique services and experiences without comparison at any other property in Park City." "We could not be more excited to open YOTELPAD Park City in time for the upcoming ski season", said YOTEL CEO, Hubert Viriot. "The opening of YOTELPAD Park City follows our most recent hotel openings in London and soon in Washington DC and will be the first YOTELPAD in our global portfolio. This new concept has captured the attention of investors and buyers across the globe and we are delighted to be opening this experience to our first guests as we are working to complete similar projects in Miami, Dubai and Geneva. We are excited to be partnering with Benchmark Global Hospitality to bring the innovative design and YOTEL experience to life in Park City." "Partnering with YOTEL to bring this property to market in Park City is extremely exciting and is an important addition to our portfolio", said Alex Cabanas, CEO of Benchmark. "We are currently managing hotel properties at some of the most recognized ski destinations in the USA and adding a new and cutting-edge hotel concept at the base of the US's largest ski area is very compelling. We look forward to working with the owners of the residences and welcoming the world to Park City and the innovative design, services and experiences of YOTEL."
The event tickets market is expected to grow by USD 39.87 billion during 2020-2024. The report also provides the market impact and new opportunities created due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We expect the impact to be significant in the first quarter but gradually lessen in subsequent quarters with a limited impact on the full-year economic growth.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201001005560/en/

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Event Tickets Market 2020-2024 (Graphic: Business Wire)

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The penetration of 4G and 5G technologies have enabled end-users to access high-speed internet. This is changing consumer preferences and is encouraging the adoption of mobile apps for ticket booking. Popular ticketing apps such as Eventbrite, Ticketbud, Paytm, and Eventbee have registered over a million downloads in various application stores. These apps help users to create, promote, and sell tickets for various events. Besides, some ticketing service providers are launching their own mobile apps to enable users to book tickets conveniently. All these factors are influencing the growth of the global event tickets market.

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=IRTNTR40993

As per Technavio, the high utilization of social media will have a positive impact on the market and contribute to its growth significantly over the forecast period. This research report also analyzes other significant trends and market drivers that will influence market growth over 2020-2024.

Event Tickets Market: High Utilization of Social Media

Vendors in the market are leveraging social media for branding, marketing, broad-based knowledge management initiatives, and ticket selling. Networking platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter have enabled event organizers to explore new ways of marketing events and movies. These platforms also help them gain feedback and opinions and effectively target their audiences with customized offers. In addition, many ticket vendors are partnering with social media platforms to promote their business. For instance, SeatGeek Inc. (SeatGeek) signed up as a distribution partner with Facebook Inc. The alliance allowed SeatGeek Inc.'s customers to buy tickets directly through Facebook. Such developments are expected to foster the growth of the global event tickets market during the forecast period.

"Integration of analytics with online ticket platforms and the increasing popularity of e-sports tournaments will further boost market growth during the forecast period", says a senior analyst at Technavio.

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Event Tickets Market: Segmentation Analysis

This market research report segments the event tickets market by Geographic Landscape (APAC, Europe, MEA, North America, and South America), and Type (Sporting events, Concerts, Performing arts, and Others).

The North American region led the event tickets market in 2019, followed by Europe, APAC, MEA, and South America respectively. During the forecast period, North America is expected to register the highest incremental growth due to the presence of popular musicians, talent shows, and DJs in the region.

Technavio's sample reports are free of charge and contain multiple sections of the report, such as the market size and forecast, drivers, challenges, trends, and more. Request a free sample report

Some of the key topics covered in the report include:

Market Drivers

Market Challenges

Market Trends

Vendor Landscape

Vendors covered

Vendor classification

Market positioning of vendors

Competitive scenario

About Technavio

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses 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.

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The evolution of epidemic and endemic strains of the cholera-causing bacterium Vibrio cholerae in Argentina has been mapped in detail by researchers at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, the University of Cambridge and the INEI-ANLIS "Dr Carlos G. Malbran", Argentina. The teams used whole genome sequencing to study the bacteria circulating during the 1991-1998 outbreak of cholera in the country.

The data have influenced health policy in Argentina, where the national alert surveillance system now uses whole-genome sequencing to distinguish between pandemic and non-pandemic lineages of V. cholerae bacteria. The study is published in Nature Communications today (1 October).

Cholera, caused by strains of V. cholerae bacteria, currently affects 47 countries world-wide and claims the lives of nearly 100,000 people a year*. Since the 1800s, there have been seven cholera pandemics around the globe, causing millions of deaths. The current pandemic, which began in the 1960s, is caused by a single lineage of V. cholerae, called 7PET. While South and Central Latin America have largely recovered from the outbreaks that began in Haiti in 2010, the lineage continues to circulate the globe and is the cause of the world's largest cholera epidemic, ongoing in Yemen, where hundreds of thousands have been infected**, ***.

In a new study, the team sequenced the genomes of a unique set of historical V. cholerae samples, held at INEI-ANLIS "Dr. Carlos G. Malbran", the national reference laboratory of Argentina. By re-analysing the past, the international team of researchers hope to understand better the future patterns of disease, and to enable rapid alerts for new introductions of pandemic lineages.

Using phylogenetic analysis, they confirmed that the 1992 outbreak of cholera in Argentina was caused by one introduction of 7PET V. cholerae bacteria, originally introduced into Peru. The bacteria then evolved very little during the six years of the epidemic. This was in contrast to the diverse, multiple endemic strains of V. cholerae circulating at the same time. Previous work by the team has shown that while endemic strains can make people ill, they seem to lack the potential to spread quickly and cause an epidemic****.

Matthew Dorman, first author on the study from the Wellcome Sanger Institute said: "When a 7PET pandemic strain enters into Latin America from elsewhere, it can cause massive epidemics, such as those seen in Peru in the 1990s and Haiti in 2010. If we are to control cholera epidemics efficiently, it is vital that we are able to distinguish and understand the differences between the local, endemic V. cholerae that co-exist alongside 7PET during a cholera epidemic. Our study elaborated the genomic evolutionary history of these two types together in a single country, during a decade where there were major cholera outbreaks in this region."

The findings have been used by public health authorities in Argentina, where the national alert system has now been changed to distinguish between pandemic 7PET lineage and local V. cholerae lineages using whole-genome sequencing.

Dr Josefina Campos, senior author from INEI-ANLIS "Dr. Carlos G. Malbran", Buenos Aires, Argentina said: "Thanks to a comprehensive surveillance and reporting system, the reference laboratory in Argentina contains a snapshot of an entire epidemic. This gave us a unique opportunity to understand the detailed evolution of V. cholerae bacteria in our country. We will be able to use these data and this experience to inform how we monitor and respond to any future cholera outbreaks - bacteria that cause epidemics pose a very different risk to those that do not; this is simple information that is critical for disease control. We are the first national reporting system in the world to use genomic data to monitor cholera like this."

Professor Nick Thomson, senior author from the Wellcome Sanger Institute and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine said: "Detailed studies like this contribute to our growing understanding of how cholera is moving across the globe: evidence to inform improved control strategies as well as identify areas for further research. Our challenge is to better understand why such a simple bacterium continues to pose such a threat to human health, with this study we are a little step closer."

###

Notes to Editors:

About Cholera:

Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal disease caused by ingesting food or water contaminated with the bacterium, Vibrio cholerae. Some people develop water diarrhoea with severe dehydration, which can lead to death if left untreated. The disease spreads between people in areas with inadequate access to clean water and sanitation. https://www.who.int/health-topics/cholera

* https://www.who.int/en/news-room/feature-stories/detail/prevention-for-a-cholera-free-world

** https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-018-0818-3

*** World Health Organisation Weekly epidemiological record: https://www.who.int/wer/2020/wer9537/en/

**** https://science.sciencemag.org/content/358/6364/789

Publication:

Matthew J. Dorman et al. (2020) Genomics of the Argentinian cholera epidemic elucidate the contrasting dynamics of epidemic and endemic Vibrio cholerae. Nature Communications, DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-18647-7

Funding:

This work was supported by Wellcome, the Ministry of Health, Argentina, NIH, and BBSRC.

Selected websites:

INEI-ANLIS "Dr Carlos G Malbran"

http://sgc.anlis.gob.ar/cris/ou/ou00011?locale=en

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. http://www.wellcome.org

The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM)

The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine is a world-leading centre for research, postgraduate studies and continuing education in public and global health. LSHTM has a strong international presence with over 3,000 staff and 4,000 students working in the UK and countries around the world, and an annual research income of 180 million.

LSHTM is one of the highest-rated research institutions in the UK, is partnered with two MRC University Units in The Gambia and Uganda, and was named University of the Year in the Times Higher Education Awards 2016. Our mission is to improve health and health equity in the UK and worldwide; working in partnership to achieve excellence in public and global health research, education and translation of knowledge into policy and practice http://www.lshtm.ac.uk
Amiya Meethal By

Express News Service

KOZHIKODE: The Kozhikode-based Micro Health Laboratories (MHL) has approached the police citing the possibility of Arma Laboratories having tampered with the Covid tests of 44 Malappuram natives employed with the Dubai police.

Arma Lab had collected the swab samples of 49 people from Malappuram district who work with the Dubai police. But we received only five samples. They are set to return to the UAE, said MHL vice-president Hamza Meladi in a petition to the Valanchery police.

The police is probing the case regarding the issuance of fake Covid negative certificates by the Valanchery-based Arma laboratories  a franchise of MHL  after tampering with a minimum of 2,500 swab samples, thereby swindling close to Rs 60 lakh. The laboratory has been sealed since and cases registered against the firm and its proprietors.

In his petition, Hamza alleged that Arma conducted antigen assay tests illegally with the swab samples which were actually meant for RT-PCR testing and issued fake negative certificates when the antigen test results came back negative.

Saying Arma has no permission to conduct any of these tests, he also demanded that the probe be extended to the person through whose tampered result the fraud came to light.

Another lab comes up against Arma

Meanwhile, another Kozhikode-based laboratory  R-Cell Diagnostics & Research Centre has filed a complaint against Arma Laboratories with the Valanchery police.

The plaint says that Arma used to provide swabs to R-Cell too and that the latter had doubts over the former tampering with one or two test results.

They had given some 300 swab samples to us for RT-PCR tests in the first week of September. When we grew doubtful of a case, we cut ties with Arma, said a source with R-Cell.

5 Arma staff-members, 6 cops test +ve

Meanwhile, the probe against Arma Laboratories hit a stumbling block after five persons at Arma and six cops at the Valanchery police station turned Covid positive.

Sunil Sadath and Abdul Nazar, the mainstays of Arma, have turned positive, besides three paramedical staff. It is not certain if the six cops contracted the virus from Arma staff.

IPC Sections 465, 468, 471 and 420 have been slapped against the accused. The probe on the complaint of R-Cell lab has also been initiated, said Valanchery SI Ikbal C P.




MBABANE  As the country observes the 2020 International Breast Cancer Awareness month, an increase in the number of men affected by the disease has been noted.

About five men in the country have been diagnosed with breast cancer between 2016 to 2018 and four have died of the disease, according to Cancer Epidemiologist Xolisile Dlamini.

Dlamini said more men in the country were being diagnosed with breast cancer, which was the second most common type of cancer in the world.

According to the cancer epidemiologist, they were noting a shift in the cervical cancer diagnosis, with more young women being diagnosed with the disease.

Integrated

Minister of Health Lizzie Nkosi noted that cervical cancer screening had now been integrated into all VCT clinics and there had been an increase in cancer awareness and screening uptake.

Furthermore, she said the chemotherapy unit at the Mbabane Government Hospital was now a full Oncology Department, providing various services even after hours and on weekends with a full medical team. Nkosi said she was grateful that the country was able to come together to commemorate the breast cancer awareness month at a critical time of the COVID-19 pandemic.

She stated that the COVID-19 pandemic had brought the world to its knees but Eswatini had remained strong and managed to maintain resilience in all programmes, including cancer-related programmes.

Nkosi said cancer continued to trouble the nation, while COVID-19 was making things worse.

In addition to observing all the COVID-19 protocols, we still need to remember to screen for breast cancer and other cancers, said the minister.

She stated that the month of October was a reminder on the progress made by the country in the fight against cancer and also to look onto what more needed to be done.

In addition to screening, Nkosi said leading a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and seeking early healthcare, were some sensible ways to minimise the risk of cancer.

Nkosi urged the nation to remember to add a touch of pink to their clothing on the Fridays of the month.

On another note, a virtual Brave the breast 2020 walk will take place on Saturday October 31, 2020.

Meanwhile, World Health Organisation (WHO) Country Representative Dr Brian Chirombo said COVID-19 had made life challenging for emaSwati with cancer, those undergoing treatment, cancer survivors and their families and friends. Chirombo said if one had cancer, their immune system may not be as strong as it was under normal circumstances and one may be concerned about the risks associated with COVID-19.

The general recommendation for people with cancer is that they should continue to follow specific advice or standard precautions recommended by their healthcare providers in order to minimise risk of infection or complications, during and after treatment.

Chirombo urged the nation not to lose focus on other health issues, including cancer and other non-communicable diseases.
A woman was shot in the back and prompted police to issue an emergency declaration while they hunted for two gunmen.

QLD Police officers were called to a home in Rothwell, north of Brisbane, at about 8am on Thursday morning where a woman, 27, was reportedly shot inside a car.

The woman was allegedly shot and dumped on on Kelliher Street before the two men, both aged 27, fled north.

Officers tracked a vehicle of interest to Bribie Island, 60km north of Rothwell, where an emergency declaration was made at 10.45am.

Queensland Police (pictured) are hunting for two men after a woman was shot in the back and dumped at Rothwell, north of Brisbane, at about 8am on Thursday morning

Police tracked a vehicle of interest to Bribie Island (pictured), 60km north of Rothwell, and an emergency declaration was made at 10.45am. The lockdown was lifted at about 2pm

Officers from the Special Emergency Response Team and Public Safety Response Team and the dog squad searched for one of the gunmen on Bribie Island (pictured)

The emergency declaration was made under the Public Safety Preservation Act and shut down a number of streets across Bribie Island. It was lifted at 2pm.

Inspector Robert Hytch from the Moreton District Police said police believe the 27-year-old woman wasn't shot at the Rothwell address but was left there by the men.

He said there may have been a 'heated argument' between the woman and the two 27-year-old men inside the car or it could have been an 'accidental shooting'.

Police tracked one of the male suspects to Bribie Island where he tried to flee on foot. It is believed the other male did not travel to the island.

'One of those males was located by police at Sylvan Beach Esplanade on Bribie Island. He ran from police at the time.

'As a result of that police set up a number of cordons in an attempt to contain that person,' Insp Hytch said.

Officers from the Special Emergency Response Team and the dog squad were brought in to conduct 'a sweeping search of the area'.

'At this stage the search is still underway, however it would appear that person has slipped through the cordons,' Insp Hytch said.

'That person has an association with Bribie Island, hence the reason for police originally coming to the scene.'

Witnesses reported heavily armed police officers swarming Bribie Island (pictured)

Police have recovered the firearm they believe was used in the shooting and are focused on finding the two males.

One of the men, who fled from police on foot, has been described as 180cm tall, with brown hair and of a solid build.

'His body is covered in tattoos, he has a number of tattoos with writing in and around his upper shoulders and the side of his neck,' Insp Hytch said

Witnesses reported seeing a number of heavily armed police officers near Sylvan Beach.

'Cops everywhere, they are even flying drones around and have guns drawn,' one witness told The Courier Mail.

'Saw about eight police cars with sirens going heading towards Bribie,' another witness explained.

Police cars were reportedly placed at multiple street corners with a police van on standby at the mainland side of the Bribie Island bridge.

The woman has been taken to the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital in a serious condition with a wound to her back.

She will be undergoing surgery this afternoon but is expected to survive the shooting.
No, its not the lyrics of a Hindi film song. The flowers are indeed changing colour. And its not because of love but climate change.

Recent research suggests that due to the declining ozone and increasing global warming, flowers are changing their colours. This happens when plants increase their UV absorbing pigmentation, says the research. Published in the Current Biology journal, the study revealed that in flowering plants, UV exposure favors larger areas of UV-absorbing pigmentation on petals, which protects pollen from UV-damage.

Since pigmentation in plants also affects floral thermoregulation, the study suggests climate warming may additionally impact pigmentation also.

But US President Donald Trump does not believe in climate change. Trump, who in 2019 had infamously tweeted that he wanted global warming back" after a particularly chilly winter in the Midwest, still doesnt seem to believe in things like climate crisis. Or science.

READ: Donald Trump Does Not Understand How Global Warming Works, Or How To Spell It

While the world knows about the POTUSs complete disdain for science (remember that time when he said trees just randomly explode sometimes to explain wildfires?), Trump also seems to think that climate change can just reverse itself. Human activity, over generations, have resulted in irreparable damage to the environment and global warming. But the POTUS apparently believes that it will get cooler."

Nevertheless, researchers seem to be proving that it is, indeed, NOT getting cooler. Time for some science?

To find out the effects of climate change on flora, scientists used 1,238 herbarium specimens collected from 1941 to 2017 to test whether a change in UV floral pigmentation was associated with altered ozone and temperature in 42 species across three continents.

READ: Flowers Are Changing Colours Due to Rise in Temperature and Climate Change, Shows Study

The petals were photographed using UV-sensitive cameras to observe changes in UV pigment, and scientists also looked at preserved specimens of flowers. When compared, the results showed that across locations, UV-pigmentation in flowers increased at a rate of 2% per year from 1941 to 2017. The researchers also mapped the changes of individual species to data on their local temperatures and ozone levels. The results varied depending on the flowers structure and the region it came from. For flowers with anthers enclosed within petals, pigmentation declined with increases in temperature.

The study says there is a rapid phenotypic response of floral pigmentation to human-made climate change which has shown that global warming may affect pollination through its impact on floral color, with repercussions for plants reproductive fitness.

READ: Coronavirus to Wildfires: 4 Times Donald Trump Got Science Wrong This Week

Matthew Koski, a plant ecologist at Clemson University, who was not a part of this research explains, UV pigments are invisible to the human eye, but they attract pollinators and act as a sunscreen for plants. UV radiation can be harmful for a flowers pollen. Hence, the more UV-absorbing pigment the petals contain, the less harmful radiation reaches sensitive cells.

But Trump does not believe in any of it. In Tuesdays Presidential debate with Democratic nominee Joe Biden, Trump doubled down on his decision to relax fuel-economy standards for cars and trucks, which will cause an increase in air pollution. He defended the move by claiming it will help sell more cars.

In other news, Greenland has lost more ice in the 21st century than it did in the last 12,000 years. Think about that while you watch him deny the climate crisis in the next debate.
Growth of E-retailing will drive the market growth during the forecast period

The last mile delivery market in North America is expected to register a CAGR of over 14% during 2020-2024, as per the latest research report by Technavio. The report offers a detailed analysis of the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the market in optimistic, probable, and pessimistic forecast scenarios.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201001005469/en/

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Last Mile Delivery Market in North America 2020-2024 (Graphic: Business Wire)

Request for Technavio's market report estimates including pre- and post-COVID-19 impact on last mile delivery market in North America. Download a Free Sample Report on the impact of COVID-19 pandemic analysis.

Due to the extensive spread of the virus across the globe, the Industrials sector is anticipated to have Negative impact. The last mile delivery market in North America will showcase Negative impact during 2020-2024.

Last Mile Delivery Market in North America 2020-2024: Segmentation

Last Mile Delivery Market in North America is segmented as below:

Service Business to Customer (B2C) Business to Business (B2B)

Geography US Canada



The US was the largest market for last mile delivery services in North America in 2019. The large volume of e-retail purchases and the rising number of customers opting for fast and seamless delivery services are contributing to last mile delivery market growth in North America. Moreover, many retailers are providing free returns and exchanges that are driving the demand for reverse logistics in the last mile delivery model.

The Industrials market is anticipated to have Indirect impact and the last mile delivery market demand in North America will show At par growth. View market snapshot before purchasing

Strong focus on technological advances has been an instrumental factor in influencing the growth of last mile delivery market in North America. Other market drivers include growth of e-retailing. Technavio offers custom research analysis on the crucial pointers to highlight the impact of COVID-19 on the market across the supply chain.

Key Considerations for Market Forecast:

Impact of lockdowns, supply chain disruptions, demand destruction, and change in customer behavior

Optimistic, base case and pessimistic scenarios for all markets as the impact of pandemic unfolds

Pre- as well as post-COVID 19 market estimates

Quarterly impact analysis as the spread reaches a global level and updates on market estimates

Get more insights about the global trends impacting the future of last mile delivery market in North America, Request Free Sample https://www.technavio.com/talk-to-us?report=IRTNTR40075

Last Mile Delivery Market in North America 2020-2024: Vendor Analysis

The market is moderately fragmented, and the degree of fragmentation will accelerate during the forecast period. Key players in the market have been launching several initiatives and introducing innovative products and services to cater to a larger target audience during the pandemic. Major market participants include CEVA Logistics AG, Deutsche Bahn AG, Deutsche Post DHL Group, DSV AS, FedEx Corp., GEODIS SA, North American Logistics Holdings, United Parcel Service Inc., United States Postal Service, and XPO Logistics Inc.

Technavio's custom research reports offer detailed insights on the impact of COVID-19 at an industry level, a regional level, and subsequent supply chain operations. This customized report will also help clients keep up with new product launches in direct indirect COVID-19 related markets, upcoming vaccines and pipeline analysis, and significant developments in vendor operations and government regulations. Register for a free trial today and gain instant access to 17,000+ market research reports. Technavio's SUBSCRIPTION platform

Table of Contents:

PART 01: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

PART 02: SCOPE OF THE REPORT

Preface

Currency conversion rates for US$

PART 03: MARKET LANDSCAPE

Market ecosystem

Market characteristics

Market segmentation analysis

PART 04: MARKET SIZING

Market definition

Market sizing 2019

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 SERVICE

Business to consumer (B2C)

Business to business (B2B)

PART 07: CUSTOMER LANDSCAPE

PART 08: GEOGRAPHIC LANDSCAPE

Geographic segmentation

Geographic comparison

US Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Canada Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Market opportunity

PART 09: DRIVERS AND CHALLENGES

Market drivers

Market challenges

PART 10: MARKET TRENDS

Growing focus of vendors on expanding their market presence in North America

Strong focus on technological advances

Strong focus on offering services to specific end-user segments

PART 11: VENDOR LANDSCAPE

Overview

Landscape disruption

Competitive scenario

PART 12: VENDOR ANALYSIS

Vendors covered

Vendor classification

Market positioning of vendors

CEVA Logistics AG

Deutsche Bahn AG

Deutsche Post DHL Group

DSV AS

FedEx Corp.

GEODIS SA

North American Logistics Holdings

United Parcel Service, Inc.

United States Postal Service

XPO Logistics Inc.

PART 13: APPENDIX

Research methodology

List of abbreviations

Definition of market positioning of vendors

PART 14: EXPLORE TECHNAVIO

About Us

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses 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/20201001005469/en/

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Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 23:15:21|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- The following are the updates on the global fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

- - - -

YANGON -- The total number of COVID-19 cases in Myanmar has increased to 14,383 as of Thursday, according to a release from the Ministry of Health and Sports, with 1,010 new cases.

The death toll of COVID-19 reached 321 with 11 newly reported deaths on Thursday in the country, the release said.

According to the ministry's figures, 4,156 patients have been discharged from the hospitals so far.

- - - -

KABUL -- The Afghan Ministry of Public Health on Thursday confirmed 17 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the total number of patients in the country to 39,285, including 4,985 active cases.

A total of 375 tests were conducted within the past 24 hours, and 17 were positive in Kabul, Balkh, Baghlan, and Parwan provinces, the ministry said in a statement.

- - - -

KATHMANDU -- Nepal has recorded over 500 deaths from COVID-19 as the fatality from the pandemic has risen rapidly along with the increased community transmission of the coronavirus, the Ministry of Health and Population said on Thursday.

"With 10 new deaths in the last 24 hours, total deaths from the COVID-19 reached 509," said Jageshwor Gautam, spokesperson at the health ministry said at a press meet.

- - - -

BEIJING -- The spread of COVID-19 worldwide has taken a heavy toll on economy, employment and people's life, and has brought greater challenges to women, said Chinese President Xi Jinping Thursday at a high-level meeting on the 25th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women.

- - - -

KUWAIT CITY -- Kuwait on Thursday reported 494 new COVID-19 cases and two more deaths, raising the tally of infections to 105,676 and the death toll to 612, the Health Ministry said in a statement.

Currently, 7,867 patients are receiving treatment, including 139 in ICU, according to the statement.

The ministry also announced the recovery of 509 more patients, raising the total recoveries in the country to 97,197.

- - - -

HANOI -- Vietnam reported a new case of COVID-19 infection on Thursday, bringing its total confirmed cases to 1,095 with 35 deaths from the disease so far, according to its Ministry of Health.

The new case is a 49-year-old Russian man who has recently entered Vietnam from Russia, said the ministry, noting that he was quarantined upon arrival. Enditem
Armenia and Azerbaijan vow to keep fighting as deaths mount People in southern Azerbaijan were seen lamenting a coffin said to contain a soldier killed in the fighting

Armenia and Azerbaijan vowed to keep fighting and rejected international calls for negotiations Wednesday as clashes over the disputed Nagorny Karabakh region raged for a fourth day.

In the breakaway province's capital Stepanakert, two explosions were heard around midnight as sirens sounded. Residents said the city had been attacked by drones.

Streets were dark with public lighting shut off, although some shops were open in the city, which local authorities said came under fire when fresh violence erupted Sunday.

Moscow said Russian President Vladimir Putin and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron had called for a "complete" halt to fighting in Karabakh and said they were ready to intensify diplomatic efforts to help solve the conflict.

"Vladimir Putin and Emmanuel Macron called on the warring sides to halt fire completely and as soon as possible, de-escalate tensions and show maximum restraint," the Kremlin said.

In a telephone call, the two leaders expressed "readiness" to see a statement made on behalf of the co-chairs of the Minsk Group -- Russia, France and the US -- that would call for an "immediate" end to fighting and start of talks, it added.

Armenian and Azerbaijani forces are engaged in the heaviest fighting in years over Karabakh, an ethnic Armenian province that broke away from Azerbaijan in the 1990s when the Soviet Union collapsed.

The confirmed death toll surpassed 100 people including civilians Wednesday, with both sides claiming to have inflicted heavy losses on the other.

Baku and Yerevan have ignored mounting international pressure for a ceasefire, sparking fears the conflict could escalate into all-out war and draw in regional powers like Turkey and Russia.

"We need to prepare for a long-term war," Karabakh separatist leader Arayik Harutyunyan said Wednesday.

Moscow, which has a military pact with Armenia but also good ties with Azerbaijan, has repeatedly called for an end to the fighting and on Wednesday offered to host negotiations.

Story continues

- Russia 'ready' for meeting -

In separate phone conversations with his counterparts from both ex-Soviet countries, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reaffirmed Moscow's "readiness" to organise a meeting.

But neither leader showed signs of being ready for talks.

Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev promised his military would keep fighting until Armenian troops withdraw fully from Karabakh.

If "the Armenian government fulfils the demand, fighting and bloodshed will end, and peace will be established in the region," he said while visiting wounded soldiers.

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said it was not "very appropriate" to speak of negotiations "at a time of intensive hostilities".

In the Armenian capital Yerevan, dozens of men gathered outside a recruitment office to join the fight.

"We must act to defend our homeland against the aggressor," said Kamo, a 32-year-old factory worker. "This is our land. We will die before we abandon it."

There has been no let-up in the fighting since the weekend, with both sides reporting new civilian casualties Wednesday.

Armenia has recorded 104 military deaths and 23 civilians killed.

Azerbaijan's defence ministry said its forces have killed 2,300 Karabakh separatist troops and "destroyed 130 tanks, 200 artillery units, 25 anti-aircraft units, five ammunition depots, 50 anti-tank units, 55 military vehicles".

Armenia claimed that Azerbaijan had lost 130 troops while another 200 were wounded.

"Armenian armed forces destroyed 29 tanks and armoured vehicles," a defence ministry spokesman said.

- 'Real enemy' -

Karabakh's defence ministry, for its part, said Azerbaijani forces "continued artillery shelling" along the frontline.

The two sides have accused each other of targeting civilian areas, including some away from Karabakh.

Yerevan claims that Turkey, a longstanding ally of Azerbaijan, is providing direct military support for Baku.

It said on Tuesday that a Turkish F-16 flying in support of Baku's forces had downed an Armenian SU-25 warplane, but Ankara and Baku denied the claim.

The Karabakh separatist leader reiterated claims Turkey was involved.

"The real enemy is Turkey," Harutyunyan said.

There have been reports of Turkey sending fighters from Syria, where Ankara is allied with some rebel groups, to join the Azerbaijani side.

Azerbaijan for its part also claimed Armenia was deploying foreign fighters.

"Mercenaries from Middle Eastern countries are fighting against us alongside Armenian forces," Aliyev's foreign policy adviser, Hikmet Khadjiyev, told AFP.

Russia's foreign ministry said that "fighters of illegal armed groups including from Syria and Libya" were being deployed to the conflict zone.

It said it was "deeply concerned" but did not say who was responsible or lay any blame.

- 'Close to large-scale war' -

"We are definitely very close to seeing a large-scale war, possibly even on a regional scale," said Olesya Vartanyan of the International Crisis Group.

Karabakh's declaration of independence from Azerbaijan sparked a war in the early 1990s that claimed 30,000 lives, but it is still not recognised as independent by any country, including Armenia.

Talks to resolve the conflict have largely stalled since a 1994 ceasefire agreement.

bur-mm-as/spm
About 50,000 people are only in aged care because they can't get support to stay at home, with aged care advocates putting pressure on the Morrison government to unveil more home care packages in Tuesday's federal budget.

Council on the Ageing chief executive Ian Yates said the fact that one in five people in aged care could not remain safely at home, drawn from the latest data released by the federal Health Department, meant "the system has let them down, and let their families down".

Val Fell, 91, is hoping she will never have to go into aged care. Credit:Janie Barrett

"On top of that many more went to a nursing home because their family knew how long they would have to wait for home care," Mr Yates said.

Figtree's Val Fell, 91, said some members of her dementia carers' support group had been waiting years for a home care package and it was not uncommon for their loved one to die waiting  a story shared by 30,000 other families over the past three years.
This week, Danny M. Lavery and special guest Carta Monir discuss a Prudie letter: only certain fans.

Daniel Lavery: I think mostly this letter-writers concern is a real one! I hope that doesnt seem flippant or dismissive, butyes, you have hit on one of the real challenges of sex work/ some form of sex work/ sex-work-adjacent work!

Carta Monir: My gut feeling is to tell this person to be very careful. Starting an OnlyFans account isnt necessarily difficult, but doing it comes with unquestionable professional risks.

Like its a really crowded field and its not *very* likely that you will be successful enough to be noticed by your students. On the other hand, ask yourself: will it kill your career if your boss finds out youve been making porn? Will it hurt your relationship with your loved ones?

OnlyFans is nice because its hidden behind a paywall, but just like anything uploaded to the internet, you do have to assume that your content may be redistributed in ways that you did not anticipate or want

Daniel Lavery: Yeah, and its difficult to predict how ALL of your future students might react IF they saw your work.

Carta Monir: Right! The other thing to seriously consider is whether you could actually make enough money for the risk to be worth it. Branding yourself as an online sex worker is difficult and the field is so crowded right nowunless you have an obvious way to differentiate yourself from other people, you may end up in a sea of people who look exactly like you and are better at making content than you. This isnt to be pessimistic, it just takes a lot of work to be noticed.

Daniel Lavery: Did you get any sense for what this letter-writers conviction that theyd be good at sex work might be based in? Like  familiarity with the field, or I enjoy sex recreationally, or something else?

Carta Monir: Hard to say! Like, if you think you would be good at it because you like having sexthat might not make much of a difference. If you think you would be good at it because youre close to people who are doing it and have relevant experience, like running a really successful patreon based on your photography or something maybe you would be amazing at it! I dont know

Daniel Lavery: right! as always with gig work, being good at it also means being good at marketing, accounts payable, etc

Carta Monir: Right! Youre running a small freelance operation! If you just want to dip your toes in, assume that you will make $0 and then ask yourself if youre still interested.

Daniel Lavery: Right. And when in doubt, overestimate how much savvy, industry, and support-staff-type work all go into sex work  assume its a challenging, demanding job.

Carta Monir: Yes!! Absolutely, and one that often takes time and experience to get really good at it.

Daniel Lavery: Do you have any advice about that specific fear, What if someone from my day job sees my account?

It put me in mind of this piece from the Chronicle of Higher Ed last year.

Which I dont bring up just to scare the letter-writer, but to encourage them to seek out accounts from sex worker/academics (there are many!) and try to get a sense of Do I think I could handle this outcome?

Carta Monir That article is so horrible, yeah

Daniel Lavery and to be clear: When I say seek out accounts, I dont mean email sex workers and ask them for advice

I mean look for work thats already available for the public

Carta Monir: I would say, operate under the assumption that someone will eventually find out

Daniel Lavery: I do feel bad because this particular story is something of a perfect storm of bad reactions

and I really dont want to intone, This will happen to YO-O-U-U-U-U-U while raising a bony finger

Carta Monir: Personally, I had the good fortune to become estranged from my whole family before I started sex work

And I dont have a day job that puts me at risk of discovery, you know?

Daniel Lavery: Im trying to thread a needle between This is a terrible idea, forget about it immediately and Nothing bad will ever happen, just go for it, be yourself, have fun, leave it all out there on the field

Carta Monir: Your mileage may vary, be careful, this is what pretty much every sex worker has had to deal with since the beginning of time

Daniel Lavery: I think thats helpful  everybody in the industry has to answer the same questions about self-protection, and so theres already something in the way of resources and advice out there from people who have lived it, and its worth getting a sense of what they have to say before deciding for yourself whether the risk is worth it to you.
NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / FingerMotion, Inc. (OTCQB:FNGR), (the "Company" or "FingerMotion"), a mobile services and data company, is scheduled to release a digital message after the market closes on October 29th, 2020.

To listen to the webcast, access the Company's Investor Relations Page. The message will be delivered by CEO, Martin Shen and will cover Q2 results and provide a glimpse into the Company's upcoming developments. Details to follow closer to the release date.

About FingerMotion, Inc.

FingerMotion is an evolving technology company with a core competency in mobile payment and recharge platform solutions in China. It is one of only a few companies in China with access to wholesale rechargeable minutes from China's largest mobile phone providers that can be resold to consumers. As the user base of its primary business continues to grow, the Company is developing additional value-added technologies to market to its users. The vision of the Company is to rapidly grow the user base through organic means and have this growth develop into an ecosystem of users with high engagement rates utilizing its innovative applications. Developing a highly engaged ecosystem of users would strategically position the Company to onboard larger customer bases. FingerMotion eventually hopes to serve over 1 billion users in the China market and eventually expand the model to other regional markets.

For further information e-mail: info@fingermotion.com

718-269-3366

Safe Harbor Statement

This release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements give our current expectations of forecasts of future events. All statements other than statements of current or historical fact contained in this release, including statements regarding our future financial position, business strategy, new products, budgets, liquidity, cash flows, projected costs, regulatory approvals or the impact of any laws or regulations applicable to us, and plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. The words "anticipate," "believe," "continue," "could," "should," "estimate," "expect," "hope," "intend," "may," "plan," "project," "will," and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements on our current expectations about future events. While we believe these expectations are reasonable, such forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control. Our actual future results may differ materially from those discussed or implied in our forward-looking statements for various reasons. Factors that could contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to: international, national and local general economic and market conditions; demographic changes; the ability of the Company to sustain, manage or forecast its growth; the ability of the Company to manage its VIE contracts; the ability of the Company to maintain its relationships and licenses in China; adverse publicity; competition and changes in the Chinese telecommunications market; fluctuations and difficulty in forecasting operating results; business disruptions, such as technological failures and/or cybersecurity breaches; and the other factors discussed in the Company's periodic reports that are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and available on its website (http://www.sec.gov). Given these risks and uncertainties, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements included in this release are made only as of the date hereof. We do not undertake any obligation to update any such statements or to publicly announce the results of any revisions to any of such statements to reflect future events or developments.

SOURCE: FingerMotion, Inc

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/608826/FingerMotion-Schedules-Corporate-Message-Release-for-October-29-2020
An eco resort that boasts of being inspired by nature has admitted to dumping piles of rubbish on its own estate.

The picturesque Sahom Valley Resort in Kampa, 170km north of Malaysias capital Kuala Lumpur, offers guests a perfect getaway surrounded by mountains, rivers and greenery, however a recent visitor has documented a disturbing waste problem on its estate.

Local geologist Kovin Siva visited the eco resort with friends last week and discovered a pile of waste strewn across the landscape, nestled among its lush greenery and next to a river.

Geologist Kovin Siva was shocked with the sheer amount of waste dumped on the resort's estate. Source: Facebook

He shared on Facebook video and images of the waste which consisted of a variety of plastics, including plastic bags and bottles.

Coming from a resort who notes Eco Park in their very name, the sight that we came across resonates utter rubbish, Mr Siva said.

The geologist said he approached resort staff at its reception however he said they claimed to be unaware of the eyesore.

His post attracted anger from Facebook users, with one lambasting the resort as irresponsible.

Mr Siva told Yahoo News Australia he was shocked that the venue promoted itself as an environmentally sustainable business.

The part that makes no sense is that resort is using the word eco but not living up to it, he said.

Mr Siva said waste management was a major issue for the region, with resorts and communities having to travel up to 15km to dispose of its waste properly.

He said it was clear authorities were not doing enough to enforce laws preventing such waste sites.

In a message to Yahoo News Australia, management of the resort said the matter had now been settled and the waste had been cleared, while vowing to rectify its waste procedures.

The Sahom Valley Resort, which claims to be an 'eco park'. Source: Facebook

We will try to figure the best way to handle waste and will improve our waste management after this [incident], they said.

Story continues

The management did not clarify how the waste had been cleared, with Mr Siva skeptical the issue had been properly resolved.

He suspects the rubbish may have been buried.

The damage is done and clearing it up and saying sorry is not enough... [they] need to do more to give back to what has happened, Mr Siva said.

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.
A New Jersey man filmed himself accidentally jumping to his death in Lake Tahoe.



Ryan Normoyle was making a video of himself diving off his rental boat, but didn't realize he had left it slightly in gear.



The camera shows the boat slowly chugging away and leaving the 29-year-old behind to drown in the rough water as he couldn't catch up with the boat.



"The cellphone video basically shows him jumping off the boat," South Lake Tahoe Police Department's Lt. Travis Cabral told CBS13. "It looks like he was playing around playing in the water didn't know the boat was in gear and he wasn't able to make it back to the boat."



Police launched the investigation after the empty boat ran ashore in Glenbrook, Nevada. Aboard they found his phone with the eerie footage; using the GPS data they were able to piece together his final moments.



His body was only found last week after more than a month of searching.



It was finally discovered under 1,500 ft of water  the deepest recovery ever recorded in the North American continent.



Normoyle was on a three-week vacation to California in August when he made the decision to rent a boat for two hours during a visit to the popular beauty spot.



After weeks of fruitless searching, police enlisted the help of Bruce's Legacy, a nonprofit group specializing in search and recovery, who using underwater sonar finally located the corpse in the murky depths.



But it took another three days of dealing with very rough waters with 3-4 foot waves before they were able to bring him to the surface on Sunday, September 27.



"It was a definite body image. We drove the ROV up to him and grabbed a hold of his wrists," Keith Cormican told the site.



"To be able to call the parents and tell them we brought their son home is what it's all about."













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.

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NEW HAVEN  A city woman was sentenced to two years probation Thursday after leaking portions of a confidential police interview with another individual on Facebook, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office for Connecticut.

Diavion Hutchings, 19, previously pleaded guilty to one count of obstruction of justice, officials said in a release.

Hutchings allegedly viewed and recorded portions of a New Haven Police Department interview with another party, conducted as part of a criminal investigation, at a lawyers office in April 2019, then shared parts of the interview on Facebook Live, communicating threats of harm in the process, officials said in a release. The other party was sharing information regarding Hutchings her significant other, according to the release.

Defense Attorney W. Theodore Koch, in his sentencing memorandum, argued that Hutchings should not receive any time in prison.

He noted that this was her first conviction; that she had demonstrated grit and a great capacity to love over the course of her life, including dealing with the loss of her father and maternal grandmother, who raised her; and pointed to her youth, noting that her behavior was impulsive.

(Hutchings) is not violent, nor does she sell or use drugs, and these are the main vices of her setting. The credibility of the words she uttered which support a finding of guilt was predicated on her friendly connections to the toughs of her environment. Her braggadocio was less machismo and more masquerade, but fueled with a numbness to truly realizing how others  such as the kid on the video, or the U.S. Attorneys office  might perceive it, Koch said. A lot of the offense conduct is intertwined with a mischief-laden survival instinct. Now the mischief part has burned her. She realizes its potential tragic conclusions, and cares not to follow that path again.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Del Pilar Gonzalez argued that Hutchings should receive a 10- to 16-month sentence, in accordance with federal guidelines, for the crime.

She noted that Hutchings had chosen not to cooperate with law enforcement, expressing a fear of being labeled a snitch, which could lead others to harm her. The individual in the leaked video, she said, had faced that same fear; Hutchings then put them at risk.

Ms. Hutchings makes much of her young age, arguing that her conduct was the result of impulsivity, careless risk-taking, and a vulnerability to negative influences from her family and peers, said Gonzalez. It is hard to imagine how Person #1 would ever be able to return to (their) community after being exposed, threatened, and humiliated by Ms. Hutchings. (She) claims that she could not assist law enforcement in this case because, had she done so, she would be putting herself in danger of serious physical harm or death. The irony in that statement is palpable. Her conduct did exactly that  placed Person #1 in serious physical harm, and made (them) a target to others who shared a similar disdain for those who cooperate with law enforcement. Such conduct is worthy of serious punishment.

Gonzalez suggested that the prison sentence might also deter others from threatening those that cooperate with law enforcement, noting that oftentimes  perhaps most of the time crimes such as shootings, robberies and homicides are only solved by law enforcement with the help of community residents.

Without that help and spirit of cooperation, she said, the safety of city residents is threatened.

Cooperation of community members and, indeed, criminal defendants, is an integral part of the investigation and prosecution of violent crimes. But maybe most importantly, this cooperation is what keeps communities like New Haven safe, said Gonzalez. It is not just law enforcement that relies on cooperative efforts with the community  it is the parents that want their children to be able to play safely on the streets, it is the business owners that are trying to make a living, and it is all of the citizens of our cities that rely on each other for their safety and security.

Judge Janet C. Hall sentenced Hutchings to two years probation Thursday, according to the release.

william.lambert@hearstmediact.com
A Virgin Australia flight attendant eating a meal in an aircraft galley suffered a broken leg when a high-speed descent went wrong.

The attendant was one of two cabin crew members injured during a domestic flight from Melbourne to Adelaide in September 2017.

A new Australian Transport Safety Bureau report has found the actions of the captain, a first officer acting as pilot, contributed to their injuries.

A Virgin Australia flight attendant eating a meal in an aircraft galley suffered a broken leg when a high-speed descent went wrong (file picture)

The Boeing 737 was instructed by air traffic control to perform a high-speed descent near Adelaide Airport.

A sudden wind change during the descent resulted in the aircraft's speed increasing and approaching the maximum operating limit of 340 knots.

The concerned captain abruptly pulled back on the control, disconnecting the autopilot.

It meant sudden changes to the aircraft's pitch altitude and vertical acceleration as the attendants stood in the rear galley eating a meal.

Both suffered injuries during the incident, the report said, with one 'badly' breaking their leg.

It then took over 90 minutes for the crew member to be removed from the plane after touching down in Adelaide.

They were unable to walk or sit in a wheelchair and an ambulance stretcher would not fit down the aisle, the report noted.

Emergency services ultimately dragged the injured staff member to the front of the aircraft using a slide sheet before moving them onto a stretcher.

The ATSB said Virgin has since changed procedures for ground staff responding to emergency services requests, and has updated training and information for pilots on overspeed and overspeed recovery.

Dr Stuart Godley, the bureau's director of transport safety, said the commercial flight had exceeded its maximum operating speed by one knot.

He said it served as a reminder to pilots that they can decline air traffic control instructions if they believe them unsafe in the circumstances.
At last, some good news on the testing front in the battle against COVID-19. Health Canada has finally approved a rapid testing device that may cut down the need for people to line up for hours to see if theyre infected by the coronavirus.

Thats a win for health professionals and politicians, including Ontario Premier Doug Ford, who have been loudly calling for rapid tests to be made available in Canada. Other countries have had them for months, they asked, so why not us?

A very good question  so Health Canadas decision to green-light the test device from an American company, Abbott Diagnostics, is mostly a win for people in areas where the second wave of COVID-19 is at its worst. Those are the same areas where demand for tests has skyrocketed, leading to those frustrating hours-long lineups.

But what a tangled way to break the logjam. Health Canada took its usual cautious approach to approving the tests for use in Canada, even as the calls for quick deployment grew ever louder.

The federal government, as recently as last Thursday, went out of its way to say it would not lean on the scientists to get a move on. Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland pledged to respect the independence of our regulating authorities.

Then suddenly on Tuesday the government proudly announced it had signed a deal with Abbott for 7.9 million testing kits and thousands of the devices needed to process the results. That was at a time when, as far as the public knew, Health Canada was still evaluating their effectiveness.

But on Wednesday, barely 24 hours later, Health Canada announced the tests were good to go. We dont know exactly how all this played out, but it beggars belief that the rising chorus of criticism didnt play a role in prompting the health department to finally cough up a decision.

Now the question is when  when will these long-awaited tests actually be available for use by doctors and clinics? When will people worried that they or their kids might be infected be able to get a quick test and receive results in under 15 minutes, rather than the days it can now take to find out? And when will those unacceptable lineups for traditional tests shrink to manageable proportions?

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says the first batch of devices will be available in the coming weeks  an awfully long delay at a time when the number of COVID-19 cases is on a rapid rise. If the government had been on top of this through the summer, those tests could have been available now, in time to help deal with the long-predicted second wave.

The government needs to pick up the pace. The next step in this area is to approve a so-called antigen test, which could be used in schools, workplaces and many other locations, with quick results.

Health Canada says its reviewing several possible tests, and the government should make sure there are no unnecessary delays. The experience of the Abbott Diagnostics test finally approved this week showed the obvious  that a sense of urgency can in fact speed up the decision-making.

All this being said, acquiring rapid testing is no excuse for bungling traditional testing, as happened in too many locations in Ontario and Quebec in the past few weeks. And it may not be the game-changer that Ford claims it will be.

As its supporters pointed out, the Abbott test has been approved and in use in the United States for months. Yet that country is the poster-child for how to bungle the health crisis. Testing, of whatever kind, is just one element of a much wider solution.

That will require quick government action on many fronts. And, as public health officials remind us daily, it will require continued vigilance by us all to follow their advice and keep the second wave from swamping our health system.
Prime Minister urged stop astonishing anomaly allowing people to travel into North Wales from English lockdown areas

This article is old - Published: Thursday, Oct 1st, 2020

A North Wales MP has urged the Prime Minister to stop an astonishing anomaly allowing those living in locked-down English counties to cross into parts of north Wales.

From 6pm on Thursday, travel will not be permitted in or out of the four affected north Wales counties without a reasonable excuse, such as for work or educational reasons.

But according to Plaid Cymru MP Liz Saville Roberts, the latest Welsh restrictions mean that those living in locked down areas of England  including parts of the north west, the midlands and West Yorkshire  are permitted to travel through Wrexham, Flintshire, Conwy and/or Denbigshire into the non-locked down counties of Gwynedd or Anglesey.

While holidays do not qualify as a reasonable excuse in Wales, no equivalent rule applies in England, where residents continue to be allowed to go on holiday with people they live with.

Quizzed during Prime Ministers Questions yesterday, Boris Johnson accepted there were seeming illogicalities but offered no assurance that advice would be amended for the affected English areas.

Speaking in the Commons, Dwyfor Meirionnydd MP Liz Saville Roberts said: 2.3 million people will not be able to travel in or out of Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire or Wrexham without good reason.

Yet people in locked down areas of England can still visit rural Wales.

Travelling from Betws-y-Coed to Beddgelert can land you with a fine. But Rochdale to Rhosneigr? No problem.

I raised this with the Prime Minister last week, leisure travel from locked down areas has got to stop. Will he make good on this today?

In response the Prime Minister said: There are different measures in place but overall the UK is proceeding with the same approach and Im very grateful to Mark Drakeford and everyone else in the Welsh Government for the way were working together to defeat the virus.

Yes there will be some differences and some seeming illogicalities which are inevitable in tackling a pandemic, but Im grateful for the cooperation she is giving.

In the Senedd on Tuesday, the First Minister confirmed that he had written to the Prime Minister on Monday, asking him to implement similar stay-local rules for English lockdown areas.

Yesterday Wrexham.com asked Minister Kirsty Williams about the issue, and she pointed to that letter being sent.

Later we asked the Health Minister about the Prime Ministers response and asked if the Welsh Government could legislate  you can read what he said here.

Speaking after PMQs, Ms Saville Roberts, added: The vast majority of Welsh people are now being asked not to leave their local authority area as communities fight collectively to push down rising infection rates. These efforts could be hamstrung by tourists from outside of Wales travelling from high-infection areas.

The only illogicality is the Prime Minister ignoring good public health practice in the middle of a pandemic.

Weve seen queues of walkers on top of mountains and traffic jams outside tourist destinations, whilst people who live locally are told not to travel. It isnt fair, it isnt safe and it isnt helping to stop the spread of the virus.

Yet again, Im urging the Prime Minister to review the guidance for people facing local lockdowns in England to ensure that people do not travel outside of their local area unless it is necessary.

By Gareth Williams  Local Democracy Reporter / Wrexham.com
On October 1, the fifth day of the war unleashed against Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) and Armenia with the overt support of Turkey, the Azerbaijani Armed Forces targeted journalists performing their professional duties in Artsakh.

And so:

1 In the city of Martuni of Artsakh, the Azerbaijani Armed Forces shelled journalists of the French Le Monde newspaper and their escorting personnel, as a result of which citizens of France (two journalists of Le Monde) were seriously wounded, while the resident of Martuni escorting the group was killed during the shelling. President of France Emmanuel Macron has touched upon the incident.

2 The crew of ZHAME (HOUR) news program of Armenias ARMENIA TV station were also attacked while providing coverage of the hostilities (the cameraman of the crew was wounded).

3 A journalist for the Armenian 24News.am online TV company was among the group of journalists who were under target fire of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces in Martuni.

4 The same day, the deputy editor of  (Dozhd) TV company was also shelled.

5 The five-member crew of Armenias CivilNet TV was also exposed to shelling in the city of Martuni.

6 The Azerbaijani Armed Forces also targeted the vehicle transporting the journalists of Agence France-Presse (AFP) who were carrying out their journalistic mission in Artsakh.

The journalists affected by Azerbaijans attacks are being provided with medical assistance and are even undergoing difficult surgeries.

The attacks of October 1 are the continuation of the attacks made over the past few days, including the following:

1 On September 28, an unmanned aerial vehicle targeted the crews (journalists and cameramen) of the Armenian SHANT TV Company and Tert.am news website

The Azerbaijani Armed Forces are targeting not only peaceful civilians of Artsakh, but also journalists performing their professional duties in the war zone. Moreover, this is targeted  all the journalists have PRESS logos, but this does not bother the Azerbaijani Armed Forces from shelling them. This sparks substantiated doubt that Azerbaijan is deliberately targeting journalists, perhaps with the purpose of preventing journalists from reporting the real information about the war to the international community. With this, Azerbaijan is violating several international conventions and agreements, and there must be an adequate evaluation from the relevant institutions.

The Union of Journalists of Armenia calls on all active media organizations and human rights organizations of the world to give an adequate evaluation of the condemnable actions of Azerbaijan of targeting journalists, with the demand to ensure the international norm of protection of neutrality towards journalists providing coverage of the military operations.

The Union of Journalists of Armenia expresses gratitude to all journalists who are putting their lives on the line and the representatives of the technical staffs supporting those journalists for performing their professional duties and reporting credible and impartial news about the war imposed on us Armenians at a crucial moment for us Armenians. We express condolences to the family and all the relatives of the young person who was escorting the group of journalists of Le Monde. We wish all of our wounded and affected colleagues a speedy recovery.

Union of Journalists of Armenia
Panaji, Oct 1 : Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Thursday launched the state government's ambitious 'Atmanirbhar Bharat Swayampoorna Goa' initiative, which aims at making every village in the coastal state self-sufficient, in sync with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision to make India a self-reliant nation.

Sawant said that as part of the initiative 41 village panchayats had been identified for the early phase of the government's self sufficiency initiative, which will involve creating a detailed dossier on each village, listing existing infrastructure, potential and seeking inputs on the requirements to make it self-sufficient.

"Today, Goa has to rely on importing goods from other states, because we have neglected our own produce. Every day, we need two lakh litres of milk to be imported. 1.5 lakh eggs are a daily requirement during the (tourism) season in Goa. Why can't we produce this in our villages," Sawant said during a virtual launch of the initiative.

Sawant said that as per the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat Swayampoorna Goa' initiative, government officers and school teachers will travel to 41 villages and seek feedback on the existing infrastructure as well as identify potential sectors for furthering the self-reliance agenda.

"All government officers should be 'karmayogis' in their efforts to conduct the exercise to make Goa Swayampoorna," Sawant said.

The Chief Minister added that one of the key agendas of his government was to eliminate poverty in the state.

"We want to eliminate poverty. We are completing sixty years of Liberation (from Portuguese rule), and if a resident of Goa is still below the poverty line, we need to change this and increase his income," Sawant said.
Photo credit: Amazon Prime

From Esquire

With the US Presidential Election just weeks away, Sacha Baron Cohen is back with two big political movies.

In one corner, you've got the Aaron Sorkin-helmed The Trial of the Chicago 7, a re-telling of the court case against anti-war activists who were falsely accused of disrupting the 1969 Democratic Convention. In true Sorkin style, it's a debate in cinematic form, stuffed with speechifying and political cut-and-thrust. That one is in cinemas now, and lands on Netflix on 16 October.

Hot on its heels come Baron Cohen's film for Netflix's rival, Amazon Prime Video, in which he travels around America seeking to understand and heal the political divisions that have led to one of the most poisonous election campaigns in living memory. Oh, wait, misread that. He's going to goad right-wing nutters into shooting him (according to reports, the man behind the moustache had to wear a bulletproof vest while filming, so febrile was the atmosphere).

Related video: Sacha Baron Cohen vs. Donald Trump

Yes, Borat is back. As the pandemic wreaked its havoc, the Kazakhstani journalist has apparently been touring the US in his own inimitable way, such as espousing the antiviral applications of wearing brown paper bags over your head. A new trailer for the movie hit social media today, and you can watch it at the top of the page.

It follows a teaser yesterday, purportedly from the Kazakh Government, praising Donald Trump's performance in Tuesday's Presidential Debate (sample tweet: Congratulation to great friend of the Kazakh people @realDonaldTrump for winning debate today! Impressive and amazing result for a strong premier who always put America and Kazakhstan first!).

The film, which arrives just a fortnight before the election on 3 November, has the full title of Borat Subsequent Moviefilm: Delivery of Prodigious Bribe To American Regime For Make Benefit Once Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan. From that title and the trailer, we can assume it's going to take a sliiiiightly different tone to the Sorkin film. Neither, however, is exactly subtle. In Sorkin's courtroom drama, Baron Cohen utters the deathless line: "I've never been put on trial for my thoughts before, man". In the Borat film, he encourages a man to kill Covid-19 by smashing it with a saucepan. Oh, and the new poster features him wearing a face mask as a mankini.



Story continues

Congratulation to great friend of the Kazakh people @realDonaldTrump for winning debate today! Impressive and amazing result for a strong premier who always put America and Kazakhstan first! pic.twitter.com/qLljQ8b5UU a Republic of Kazakhstan YY (@KazakhstanGovt) September 30, 2020

This, though, is the genius of Sacha Baron Cohen a the ability to satirise anything and everything both with broad strokes, or deft brushwork. And as his work from Ali G to Who is America? has shown, he's most effective when he gets his subjects to skewer themselves.

It is often said that our current garbage fire of a world is beyond satire. For Sacha Baron Cohen, that's challenge accepted.

Photo credit: Amazon Prime

Borat Subsequent Moviefilm: Delivery of Prodigious Bribe To American Regime For Make Benefit Once Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan will be released on Amazon Prime Video on October 23

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October 1, 2020: Oslo, Norway; PGS will release its third quarter 2020 results on Thursday, October 22, 2020 at approximately 08:00 am Central European Summer Time (CEST).



The earnings release and the earnings presentation will be published on www.newsweb.no and on PGS' web site www.pgs.com .

President & CEO Rune Olav Pedersen and EVP & CFO Gottfred Langseth will present the results via an audio webcast the same day at 9:00 am CEST. To join the audio webcast, copy and paste the link below into your browser, or go to PGS website www.pgs.com .



Audio webcast link: https://channel.royalcast.com/webcast/hegnarmedia/20201022_1/



A replay of the audio webcast will be made available on www.pgs.com shortly after.



FOR DETAILS, CONTACT:

Bard Stenberg, SVP IR & Corporate Communication

Mobile: +47 99 24 52 35

****

PGS ASA and its subsidiaries.

--END--
Updated at 12:22 p.m. ET on 2020-10-02



Malaysia said Thursday it would take action against companies that violate labor laws and would send a comprehensive study on the situation in the countrys palm oil sector to the United States to avoid further American restrictions on the commodities.



The Malaysian government was responding to a ban announced a day earlier in Washington on palm oil and related products made by Malaysia-based FGV Holdings Berhad, which U.S. officials said had used forced labor on its plantations.



Human Resources Minister M. Saravanan said he would ask his officers to look into the situation at FGV Holdings that led to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency blocking the firms palm oil products through a so-called withhold release order.



It [action] is long overdue, action will be taken, Saravanan said, adding that the ban on FGV was of great concern to the government.



At the moment the country relies very much on the export [of goods], especially palm oil, for our revenue and it [the ban] is not a good sign for the country.



The government is also working on a comprehensive study of the labor situation in the Malaysian palm oil plantation sector, said Mohd. Khairuddin Aman Razali, Minister of Plantation Industries and Commodities (KPKK), in a statement to the media responding to the ban on FGV Holdings.



The study is being conducted in collaboration with the International Labor Organization, the U.N. agency which serves as the technical consultant on the study, he said.



In 2009, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) included Malaysia in the department's List of Goods Produced by Child Labor or Forced Labor list, as stipulated under the country's Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act (TVPRA), Khairuddins statement said.



The final report on the comprehensive study will be presented to both the DOL and ILO as an initiative to remove the Malaysian palm oil industry from the TVPRA list. This, hopefully, will help prevent further restrictions on agro commodity products in the future.



The ILO told BenarNews that the Malaysian government had requested some technical advice on the study, which it offered.



The Malaysian government is the writer and owner of the report, said Steve Needham, a spokesman in Bangkok for the ILOs Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific.



According to Khairuddin, child labor and forced labor, especially where foreign workers are concerned, is a complex issue because it involves unique and different determining factors for each country and is closely related to socio-cultural structures, local rules and laws.



Following several recent incidents involving the suspension of Malaysian agricultural product exports to the United States by the United States Customs and Border Protection, the Ministry of Plantation Industries and Commodities (KPPK) would like to provide an explanation of the labor situation in the oil palm plantation sector, he said.



Talking since August



Meanwhile in a statement issued on Thursday in response to the American ban, FGV Holdings Berhad revealed that it had been in contact with U.S. customs officials for the last 13 months.



Since August 2019, FGV been communicating with CBP through our legal counsel, and have submitted evidence of compliance of labor standards as committed by FGV, the statement said.



It will continue to engage with CBP to clear FGVs name, and is determined to see through its commitment to respect human rights and uphold labor standards.



The CBP confirmed to BenarNews that FGV Holdings did contact the agency.



Due to the public nature of the allegations, FGV previously contacted CBP through third parties (third party intermediaries) to address the forced labor allegations, Nate Peeters, a spokesman in Washington for the U.S. agency, said in an email.



FGV said it was disappointed that the CBP had decided to ban its palm oil and related products when FGV has been taking concrete steps over the past several years in demonstrating its commitment to respect human rights and to uphold labor standards.



The CBP responded to this comment from FGV Holdings, saying it would need adequate evidence that forced labor wasnt being used on the companys plantations to remove the U.S. block on its palm oil and palm oil products.



CBP will not modify or revoke a Withhold Release Order until all the indicators of forced labor identified by the agency are sufficiently addressed and it is demonstrated that prison and/or forced labor is no longer being used to produce the goods targeted by the order, Peeters said, adding that any change, if made, would be announced on its website.



In announcing the ban on Wednesday, the CBP said its investigation into FGV Holdings, one of the worlds largest producers of palm oil, uncovered a host of labor abuses, including physical and sexual violence, retention of identity documents, withholding of wages, debt bondage, abusive working and living conditions, and forced child labor.



FGV on Thursday denied CBPs allegations that it retains workers passports, and said it had installed more than 30,000 safe deposit boxes for workers to store their documents safely.



FGV Holdings didnt directly comment on the charge of withholding workers wages. It said it had implemented an electronic wallet cashless payroll system which gives empowerment to the workers, acts as a more convenient and efficient way for workers to manage their finances.



Commenting on the CBPs statement that it found workers in abusive working and living conditions, FGV Holdings said that it had invested approximately 350 million ringgit (U.S. $84.3 million) during the past three years to upgrade housing facilities and construct new residences on its plantations nationwide.



The palm oil producer also categorically denied recruiting or employing refugees.



An Associated Press (AP) investigative report last week said reporters found that stateless Rohingya had been trafficked onto Malaysian palm oil plantations where they were being forced to work.



Hundreds of thousands of Rohingya fled Myanmar three years ago after decades of oppression, and a brutal crackdown in the wake of deadly attacks carried out on police and army posts by Rohingya insurgents.



FGV and Sime Darby Plantation shares fall



Saravanan said Wednesdays ban on FGV Holdings products stemmed from labor issues mainly on the companys plantations in the Malaysian Borneo states of Sabah and Sarawak. He said he was given this information by the U.S. ambassador to Malaysia, Kamala Shirin Lakhdhir.



The workers there [in Sabah and Sarawak], they have their families there, and their children may help them out on the plantation, Saravanan said.



BenarNews contacted Lakhdirs office for comment but didnt hear back.



In its announcement on Wednesday, U.S. customs officials didnt specify which FGV Holdings plantations were found to be rife with labor abuse.



Labor violations at palm oil plantations in the country have been taking place for a long time and are nothing new, the minister said, echoing the findings of numerous rights groups over the last decade or so.



Shares of FGV Holdings and another Malaysian palm oil producer, Sime Darby, took a beating on Thursday following news of the U.S. ban.



FGV Holdings shares tumbled 8.7 percent and Sime Darby Plantations shares fell 5.2 percent, according to Reuters.



Another big firm will be banned



Meanwhile, the human resource minister also said Thursday that he expected another big Malaysian palm oil producer to be banned by the U.S. over forced labor issues.



What I was told was that after FGV, another big firm will be banned by the U.S., Saravanan said, without specifying who gave him that information.



When asked which company he expected would be banned, he declined to name one.



I know which one. One of the biggest planters, he said.



CBP declined to comment on Saravanans claim.



CBP as a matter of policy does not comment on whether specific firms are subject to forced labor investigations, the agency told BenarNews.



This article has been updated to include responses from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the International Labor Organization.
What the incoming credit crisis means for you. Source: Getty

The lasting legacy of Australias Covid crisis could end up being a credit binge that brings families to their knees.

Claiming it is all about the consumer, Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has announced a massive relaxation in lending rules.

Sounds good, right? Because credit has been hard to get, whether a credit card, personal loan or particularly, home loan.

In reality, the changes wipe away 10 years of progress building up protections for consumers from getting in over their heads  the very reason theyve been condemned by consumer advocacy groups such as CHOICE, Financial Counselling Australia and Consumer Action Legal Centre.

What the government is proposing represents a huge swing  and potential financial sting  from lender beware to borrower responsibility.

Whats been proposed

Should the reforms past parliament, there are several vital things that will change.

The first is that what I call the Netflix Test, where you have to show your every expense for the three months previous to applying for a loan, will be abandoned.

Instead, its likely lenders will be able to go back to using something like the household expenditure measure, which gives a generic possible-expenses estimate.

This is all about the wagyu and wine Federal Court case you may have heard about. The corporate watchdog ASIC brought an action against Westpac, for failing to go through borrowers expenses line-by-line.

It lost. Twice.

Famously, the Federal Court Judge Nye Perrams opinion said this was not necessary because it was possible to stop eating expensive beef and drinking top-shelf shiraz, and downgrade to the cheap stuff, immediately you get a home loan.

Or words to that effect.

Meanwhile, Reserve Bank Governor Philip Lowe has even been saying banks have become excessively risk averse.

Story continues

We cant have a world in which, if a borrower cant repay the loan, its always the banks fault, Governor Lowe said.

On a portfolio basis, we want the banks to make some loans that actually go bad, because if a bank never makes a loan that goes bad, it means its not extending enough credit.

As part of the governments new proposals, and presumably retribution for the very public failure, ASIC is going to be removed from home loans regulation. This gives oversight exclusively to the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority and an overhauled National Consumer Credit Protection Act, and the Australian Financial Complaints Authority as the body for consumers to be heard.

What will it mean for you?

The clear message now, as laid out by Treasurer Frydenberg, is that there needs to be faster, easier loans... to stimulate spending and help lift us out of the COVID economy.

So what we are seeking to do here is to boost Australias economic recovery by reducing unnecessary red tape, by encouraging and facilitating lending as appropriate but of course with the necessary consumer protections in place, Treasurer Frydenberg said in a press conference this week.

Regulations, which started as principles-based, have become overly proscriptive, costly and complex; its leading to delays in loans being made available, its leading to loans not being available as they otherwise should, as the risk aversion on the part of the banks cuts in.

So from March 1 next year, when the changes are schedule to start, you will be much more likely to get approval for the loan you want.

You might even be more likely to be approved for it now, as the new lenient-on-lenders ethos has been made abundantly clear.

Of course, industries such as the motor industry and the housing industry have strongly welcomed the proposals.

Why I hate these changes

In fact, none of this is new at all. As I said earlier, it undoes hard-fought progress.

It also neutralises much of the damning report by the Royal Commission into Banking.

Indeed, one of the proposed changes is to remove the responsible lending obligations on mortgage brokers, leaving the new best interest duty only.

A statement by the Consumer Acton Legal Centre called the moves a devastating rollback of responsible lending obligations for banks and other lenders.

It all puts the onus right back on you to be safe and sensible with how much you borrow, no matter how much you want a particular couch or house.

Whatever terms or how much money a bank will soon give you, it is vital to make sure you save as big a deposit as you can and stress test what you borrow to ensure the repayments dont consume more than one-third of your households income.

Any more than that is considered mortgage stress. And think about what would happen, if you commit to the hilt and you were to lose income or a job.

This might seem like welcome news for borrowers, but they have been thrown under the COVID-recovery bus.

Nicole Pedersen-McKinnon is the author of How to Get Mortgage-Free Like Me, available at www.nicolessmartmoney.com. Follow Nicole on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Make your money work with Yahoo Finances daily newsletter. Sign up here and stay on top of the latest money, news and tech news.

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The Real Housewives of Orange County alum David Beador and his pregnant fiancee Lesley-Ann Cook revealed Thursday that they're expecting his fourth daughter (and her third child).

'We feel blessed to be adding a little girl to our big family,' Lesley gushed to E! News.

'We tried for a really long time. Everyone is super excited, especially David's mom and sisters. We have a lot of family eager to help.'

Gender reveal! The Real Housewives of Orange County alum David Beador and his pregnant fiancee Lesley-Ann Cook revealed Thursday that they're expecting his fourth daughter and her third child (pictured January 30)

Lesley gushed to E! News: 'We feel blessed to be adding a little girl to our big family. We tried for a really long time. Everyone is super excited, especially David's mom and sisters. We have a lot of family eager to help'

Even the 55-year-old businessman's three daughters - Sophie, 18; and twins Adeline & Stella, 16 - with estranged ex-wife Shannon Beador are 'super excited' to meet their baby half-sister.

'[Sophie, a Baylor University freshman,] even called me right away, so excited she's going to be a big sister again,' Cook said.

It's no wonder Beador and the former crafts vlogger got pregnant considering all the steamy nude make-out snaps that she posted on her private Instagram from their Italian vacation last November.

David originally met Lesley in 2017 at a SoulCycle class, and he popped the question on January 30 with a 4-6 carat diamond engagement ring estimated to be worth between $150K-$300K.

Blended brood: Even the 55-year-old businessman's three daughters - Sophie, 18; and twins Adeline & Stella, 16 - with estranged ex-wife Shannon Beador (L) are 'super excited' to meet their baby half-sister (pictured July 24)

Cook said: '[Sophie, a Baylor University freshman,] even called me right away, so excited she's going to be a big sister again' (pictured Sunday)

'Today I said yes to the man of my dreams!' David originally met Lesley in 2017 at a SoulCycle class, and he popped the question on January 30 with a 4-6 carat diamond engagement ring estimated to be worth between $150K-$300K

The Beador Construction CEO divorced the 56-year-old reality star in 2019 after 17 years of marriage with accusations of infidelity on both sides.

Shannon has also moved on, having dated insurance salesman John Janssen for the last 15 months.

Catch more of Beador and her three daughters' battle with COVID-19 in the 15th season of The Real Housewives of Orange County, which premieres October 14 on Bravo.

Bitter split: The Beador Construction CEO divorced the 56-year-old reality star (L) in 2019 after 17 years of marriage with accusations of infidelity on both sides (pictured in 2016)

Moved on too: Shannon has dated insurance salesman John Janssen (R) for the last 15 months (pictured May 30)
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 08:17:45|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- The following are the updates on the global fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

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RIO DE JANEIRO -- Brazil again exceeded 1,000 daily deaths caused by COVID-19 after registering 1,031 fatalities from the disease in the past 24 hours, raising the death toll to 143,952, the government said on Wednesday.

According to the Ministry of Health, it was the first time Brazil had surpassed 1,000 deaths a day since Sept. 15, when 1,113 people died.

- - - -

HOUSTON -- The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated energy transition worldwide, experts said at a virtual conference Wednesday, noting that policies and collaborations are needed in the process.

The Baker Institute Center for Energy Studies and Baker Botts L.L.P. co-hosted their fourth annual energy conference in the U.S. city of Houston, often referred to as the world's energy capital.

- - - -

OTTAWA -- More Canadians are increasingly anxious about the second wave of COVID-19 and are worried about its impact on the economy, according to a survey released by the Canadian Angus Reid Institute on Wednesday.

Last week, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic had begun in the country.

- - - -

TUNIS -- Tunisian Health Ministry on Wednesday reported 1,008 new COVID-19 cases, raising the total number of infections to 18,413.

In addition, the number of hospitalized COVID-19 patients reached 341, including 102 in intensive care units and 47 on ventilators, while the death toll increased to 265, according to a ministry statement.

- - - -

SANTIAGO -- Chile's Minister of Health Enrique Paris on Wednesday said 16 percent of the 1,684 new cases of COVID-19 infection detected in the past 24 hours were discovered through active search.

Active search is part of an anti-COVID-19 strategy that consists of seeking out cases of infection through testing of segments of the population whether or not they have symptoms of the disease, said Paris.

- - - -

BEIJING -- China will share COVID-19 vaccines with the world at a fair and reasonable price, a Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Wednesday.

"Vaccines of various countries are still being developed. It is uncertain how they will be priced, but for China, one thing is clear. We will provide our vaccines to the world as a global public good at a fair and reasonable price," spokesperson Wang Wenbin told a regular press briefing.

- - - -

WASHINGTON -- The U.S. economy contracted at an annual rate of 31.4 percent in the second quarter amid mounting COVID-19 fallout, 0.3 percentage point higher than the previous estimate in late August, the U.S. Commerce Department said in its third and final estimate released Wednesday. Enditem
Just hours after moving to Luxembourg for a job, an Asian hornet joined a Facebook expats group to ask which is the best internet provider.

The hornet, which unironically says it moved here to work in a hive in Cloche dOr, expressed relief after finding the online community, which it hoped would provide a support network and real-world friends.

Unfortunately for the two-centimeter-long creature, only one group member responded, commenting This question is literally asked every day.

Undeterred, the hornet went on to post other questions that also went ignored, such as how long it takes to fly to Ikea, which is the best school for larvae, and which is the best place to feast on a colony of honey bees.

And can I travel to Germany without a negative test? it also wrote. How long does it take to get results? Can I even catch COVID?

After the hornet posted 10 questions in a single day, one fed up member asked if the hornet had ever heard of Google. The insect replied that there was no need to be nasty to someone genuinely looking for help.

By the way, if I see you in person, Im going to sting your ass, the hornet added. Youd better start carrying an EpiPen wherever you go.

One European hornet who has lived in Luxembourg for 45 days said it would like to reach out to the Asian hornet, but its annoying having to help every new winged insect that buzzes into the Grand Duchy.

They always complain about the weather, and Im like, yeah, the European hornet said. It rains here.

Sources indicate that the Asian hornet now realizes making friends here might take some time, but its determined to make it happen.

However, according to Yolanda Hartman, author of How to Make Friends in Luxembourg: A 10-Year Plan, even for a sociable young worker living in a nest of several hundred vespas, it could take up to a year to forge a solid friendship  significantly longer than the Asian hornets average lifespan of four to five months.

Read more at wurst.lu
HOBOKEN, N.J., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- eMazzanti Technologies, a New Jersey based Manufacturing IT consultant, invites manufacturing business leaders to participate virtually in tomorrow's Made in New Jersey Manufacturing Day Program organized by the New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program (NJMEP).

The NJMEP event is scheduled to run from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm on Friday, October 2, 2020. The New Jersey Manufacturing Day will be 100% virtual. It claims to be the largest networking event of its kind for the New Jersey manufacturing industry.

Get more information and register for the Advanced Manufacturing Technology: One Step at a Time live virtual sessions.

eMazzanti's Co-Founder and President, Carl Mazzanti, will join Mark Howe, Vice President, Sales and Marketing of The Knotts Company to discuss Advanced Manufacturing Technology: One Step at a Time, in three live virtual sessions moderated by Peter Russo from NJMEP.

The panel will help manufacturers understand how they can take the initial steps toward digital transformation and adopt Industry 4.0 incrementally. Participants can also experience the eMazzanti Virtual Exhibit Booth from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM EDT.

The experts at eMazzanti Technologies provide a variety of 24/7 network monitoring and managed services solutions for small business manufacturing companies. In addition, they design multi-layered proactive cyber defense solutions to mitigate manufacturing cyber-security risk.

Have you read?

Manufacturing Automation Provider Gains Productivity with eMazzanti IT Infrastructure Upgrade

FMB Steel Cuts IT Costs 50%, Ends Recurring Problems Transferring Support to eMazzanti

About NJMEP

NJMEP is a private, notfor-profit organization that improves the profitability and competitiveness of New Jersey's manufacturers. Backed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), NJMEP enables organizations to enhance their productivity and efficiencies, reduce costs, and improve employee performance.

About eMazzanti Technologies

eMazzanti's team of trained, certified IT experts rapidly deliver increased revenue growth, data security and productivity for clients ranging from law firms to high-end global retailers, providing advanced retail and payment technology, cloud and mobile solutions, multi-site implementations, 247 outsourced network management, remote monitoring and support.

eMazzanti has made the Inc. 5000 list 9X, including eight consecutive years, is a 4X Microsoft Partner of the Year, the #1 ranked NYC area MSP and NJ Business of the Year! Contact: 1-866-362-9926, [email protected] or http://www.emazzanti.net witter: @emazzanti Facebook: Facebook.com/emazzantitechnologies.

SOURCE eMazzanti Technologies
President Donald Trump is the biggest individual source of coronavirus misinformation in the world, according to a new study at Cornell University.

The New York Times reports Cornell researchers analyzed 38 million articles about the Covid-19 article in English-language media around the world. Mentions of Trump accounted for 37.9% of the overall misinformation conversation, making him the largest driver of the infodemic, they concluded.

The biggest surprise was that the president of the United States was the single largest driver of misinformation around Covid, Cornell Alliance for Science director Sarah Evanega, the studys lead author, told the Times. Thats concerning in that there are real-world dire health implications.

Even more concerning, researchers found only 16.4% of the misinformation was fact checking in nature, suggesting that the majority of the falsehoods were conveyed without question or correction.

The study, released Thursday, is the first comprehensive examination of coronavirus misinformation in traditional and online media.

The Times reports researchers identified 11 main topics of misinformation, including conspiracy theories claiming the pandemic was manufactured by Democrats or that the initial outbreak in Wuhan, China, was linked to people eating bat soup. Bill Gates, 5G, Plandemic and population control were also frequent topics; Cornell alum Dr. Anthony Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, was accused of benefitting from pharmaceutical companies working on treatments and vaccines.

But the biggest topic was miracle cures, including Trumps comments about anti-malarial drugs and disinfectants as potential treatments, which accounted for more misinformation than the other 10 topics combined. Trump continued promoting hydroxychloroquine even after numerous studies showed it was not an effective treatment for Covid-19 and the FDA withdrew an order that allowed the drugs use as a emergency treatment.

In April, when Trump suggested ingesting disinfectants to treat the coronavirus, a spike in calls to a New York poison control center followed and two people in Georgia drank liquid cleaning products in an attempt to fight Covid-19, according to the Georgia Poison Center.

I see the disinfectant that knocks it out in a minute, one minute. And is there a way we can do something like that by injection inside or almost a cleaning? As you see, it gets in the lungs, it does a tremendous number on the lungs, so it would be interesting to check that, Trump said at a White House coronavirus press conference.

The study analyzed articles related to the coronavirus pandemic published in traditional media and other major news outlets from Jan. 1 to May 26. Out of 38 million articles, more than 1.1 million  nearly 3%  contained falsehoods.

More than 1 million deaths from the coronavirus have been reported worldwide, including nearly 207,000 deaths in the U.S.  more than any other country  as of Thursday. Thirty-four million cases of Covid-19 have been confirmed, including 7.2 million in the U.S.

MORE ON CORONAVIRUS

Coronavirus in NY: Cases, maps, charts and resources

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NY requires quarantines if you travel from these 202 countries: Afghanistan to Zimbabwe

Christmas tree lighting ceremony in Clinton Square canceled because of pandemic

Complete coronavirus coverage on syracuse.com
Police arrested dozens of protesters as thousands of officers were deployed to the streets of Hong Kong on Chinas National Day. Chief Executive Carrie Lam led official celebrations and said stability has been restored in the city. Photo: GIS Handout and Yam Lik/Bloomberg
There is a huge rush among nations across the globe to immunise their citizens against coronavirus. There are 191 COVID-19 vaccines under development around the world right now, and 41 of them are under clinical evaluation, according to the World Health Organisation. Here is the country-wise list of vaccine that has reached phase 2/3 stage of human clinical trials:

United Kingdom:

European regulators will soon start review of COVID-19 vaccine front-runner AstraZeneca and its partner University of Oxford. The European Medicines Agency is expected to announce the "rolling review" as soon as this week. A "rolling review" avoids delays so that approval from the European Commission can be sought as quickly as possible.

The University of Oxford and AstraZeneca PLC has developed the first vaccine candidate to start the final round of testing of the coronavirus vaccine.

The British-Swedish pharmaceutical firm AstraZeneca aims to make two billion doses available worldwide and said one billion doses of the vaccine will be available this year.

The United States:

a) Moderna: US biotech firm Moderna has clearly stated that it will not be ready to apply for emergency authorisation for its COVID-19 vaccine before the US presidential election. Moderna Inc's CEO Stephane Bancel told Financial Times that he was not expecting to have full approval to distribute the drugs to all US population until next spring.

Moderna is developing a vaccine candidate using messenger RNA (or mRNA for short) to trick the body into producing viral proteins itself. It must be noted that the mRNA vaccine has never been approved for any disease. Moderna has promised to supply between 500 million to 1 billion doses a year starting 2021.

b) Pfizer: Another US vaccine developer, Pfizer and its partner BioNTech have said the companies expect phase 3 data by the end of October. However, several researchers and bioethicists urged the partners to wait for more safety data before submitting their shot for a green light.

The US government has approved to pay $2 billion to Pfizer and BioNTech for 100 million doses. It is estimated that Pfizer will distribute 1.3 billion doses by the end of 2021.

c) Novavax: The US-based biotech company will enroll 10,000 participants aged 18 to 84 within the next four to six weeks, with 25 per cent being over 65. Novavax is making a vaccine that consists of two shots given 21 days apart. The vaccine delivers proteins resembling the spike of SARS-CoV-2. Researchers are hoping that the protein will trigger the production of antibodies and immune cells that can fight off the coronavirus.

d) Johnson & Johnson: Another US-based frontrunner of COVID-19 vaccine J&J released an interim analysis from the ongoing phase 1/2 clinical trial of its candidate. The company said, "strong neutralising antibody response in nearly all participants were observed".

In addition, the candidate was generally well-tolerated, and immune responses were similar across all the age groups studied, including older adults, the company said.

Johnson & Johnson is expected to produce one billion doses of the COVID-19 vaccine by the end of 2021, including 100 million doses for the US.

RUSSIA:

The chief executive officer of a Russian fertiliser company volunteered to take the Sputnik V vaccine and said he did not feel any side effects. Several other Russian billionaires chose to take the "made in Russia" COVID-19 vaccine, including, President Vladimir Putin's daughter, Industry Minister Denis Manturov, and Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin.

Sputnik V is developed by the Moscow-based Gamaleya Institute and is backed by the Russian Direct Investment Fund. It's still in a three-phase clinical trial. However, the institute has been giving shots to prominent people outside the trial groups for months without waiting for results from the full study.

INDIA:

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), there are three COVID-19 vaccines under human trials--Bharat Biotech's COVAXIN, Oxford's COVDSHIELD, and Zydus Cadila's ZyCoV-D. Serum Institute has already begun a phase-3 trial of Oxford vaccine candidates at 17 sites, whereas Zydus Cadila and Bharat Biotech are conducting phase 2/3 trails.

CHINA:

There are three Chinese firms that have entered into the phase-3 clinical trials of the coronavirus vaccine. However, reports have surfaced that thousands of people in China have been given vaccine shots before the final regulatory approval for general use.

China's biotechnology firm Sinopharm is developing two coronavirus vaccines with the government agencies Wuhan Institute of Biological Products and Beijing Institute of Biological Products.

Another one is Sinovac which has also struck a deal with an Indonesian pharmaceutical firm called PT Bio farma to make up to 250 million vaccine doses each year for Indonesians.

Sinopharm has given the vaccine to 350,000 people outside its clinical trials, whereas Sinovac has injected 90 per cent of its employees and family members or about 3,000 people.

Separately, the Chinese military has approved the use of a vaccine it developed with CanSino Biologics Inc, a biopharmaceutical company, in military personnel.

Also read: FDA widens safety probe into Astrazeneca's COVID-19 vaccine

Also read: Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine unlikely to be ready before US Presidential elections

Also read: GlaxoSmithKline CEO optimistic Covid-19 vaccine widely available in 2021
A space will be renovated and equipped so that the Ontario Seniors Dental Care program can be hosted at the Markdale Community Health Centre

Construction will begin by year-end with the service to open in 2021, said Grey-Bruce Public Health in announcing the funding.

The new provincial dental program had just launched in Owen Sound in early February before COVID hit, and is only nicely re-started now.

Were already serving many, many seniors through Grey-Bruce in our clinic in Owen Sound, said Oral Health Team Lead, hygienist Carrie Greig.

There definitely is a need in our area, and this way they dont have to travel so far.

The Markdale project received $320,000. The health unit will work with the Community Health Centre and other community partners to move forward, she said.

The program in Markdale will use the Health Smiles Ontario room, which is not equipped to provide full dental care at present.

The province announced the funding for basic dental care for seniors with low income in the 2019 budget. The press release last week confirmed that there would also be $25 million for the capital costs for health units to expand the service locations.

Preventable dental issues like gum disease, infections and chronic pain account for about 60,000 emergency department visits in Ontario. Many of these are by seniors.

HOW TO FIND HELP: Call 519-376-9420 and ask for a member of the Oral Health Team.

WHO QUALIFIES: Those 65 and over whose net income is $19,300 or less for an individual, or combined annual income of $32,300 for couples.

CARE PROVIDED: Routine dental care:

-Examinations/assessments

-Preventive services (e.g., cleanings)

-Restorative services to repair broken teeth and cavities

-X-rays

-Oral surgery services to remove teeth or abnormal tissue

-Anaesthesia

-Endodontic services (root canals) to treat infections and pain

-Periodontal services to treat gum conditions and diseases

-Prosthodontic services, including dentures, are also covered to a certain extent under the OSDCP.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. An Azerbaijani military drone breached the airspace of Artsakh and was operating above the civilian residential district of the town of Askeran. The UAV was shot down by the Artsakh military.

The Artsakh authorities have released images of the UAVs wreckage in Askeran.

The peaceful settlement was in the crosshairs of the UAV, it was shot down next to the residential district, Artsakhs Information Center said.

7 civilians in Artsakh have been killed by Azeri bombings since the attacks began on September 27.

Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan
Londons Old Bailey heard evidence yesterday of astounding acts of criminality carried out by the US government against WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange. These included near total surveillance, grossly violating Assanges privacy and legally privileged conversations; the theft of personal documents; and plans to kidnap or poison him.

The testimony was provided anonymously by two former employees of UC Globala Spanish company which provided security for the Ecuadorian Embassy in London where Assange claimed asylum. Details of their accounts had previously emerged in the press and have now been formally submitted as evidence.

A meeting between Assange and lawyer Geoffrey Robertson, illegally recorded by UC Global

Summarizing their written statements, defence lawyer Mark Summers QC explained how the witnesses learned, in their words, that from 2016 UC Global boss David Morales had entered into illegal arrangements with the US authorities to supply them with sensitive information about Mr Assange.

Morales told one of the witnesses directly that they were working for US intelligence, who he otherwise variously referred to as the dark side and our American friends. Morales experienced a noticeable increment in his [financial] assets after these relations were established.

While UC Global was working for US intelligence, one witness was instructed by Morales to install new surveillance cameras in the embassy which could secretly record sound and told to deny that they could do so when installing them. They were also told the cameras should have streaming capabilities so the Americans could have access. Later, secret microphones were concealed in a fire extinguisher in an embassy meeting room and in a socket in the toilets where Assange tried to hold private meetings. Stickers were placed on external windows to counteract vibrations and allow the American friends to use laser microphones pointed at the windows from outside the embassy.

This surveillance was targeted specifically against Assanges communication with his legal representatives, considered priority targets. Morales, said one witness, showed a real obsession in relation to monitoring and recording the lawyers because our American friends were requesting it. Lawyer-client privilege is a basic principle of justice and any violation by the prosecution should result in a case being thrown out of court.

Morales also asked the team at the embassy to obtain Assanges fingerprints, steal his documents, and steal the nappy of a baby that regularly visited Mr Assange to establish whether the child was his. Morales expressly stated that the Americans were the ones who wanted to establish paternity. He later recounted to the witness that his American handlers were considering more extreme measures, specifically his kidnap or poisoning.

Other witness statements read into evidence confirmed and expanded on the utterly lawless character of Assanges persecution.

Robert Boyle, a US criminal and civil rights lawyer, gave expert evidence on grand juries, the legal mechanism by which Assange has been charged in the US. He explained that grand juries operate without adherence to the technical and evidential rules of criminal trials and that their broad powers have been usurped by the government, turning them into a rubber stamp for prosecutors. This de facto appropriation of those powers by law enforcement has created fertile ground for prosecutorial abuse, including the coercion of witnesses.

As an example, he cited the case of Chelsea Manning, who US prosecutors tried to force to testify against WikiLeaks via a grand jury subpoena. Mannings principled refusal was punished with imprisonment and bankrupting fines, which caused grievous psychological harm and very nearly cost her life. In March this year she attempted suicide in the Alexandria Detention Center, where Assange would be held pre-trial.

Bridget Prince, director of One World Research, a public interest investigations and human rights research organisation, detailed how any US jury in Assanges trial would be stacked against the WikiLeaks founder.

Assange would be tried in Alexandria, in the Eastern District of Virginia, his jury pool drawn from government military and security services and private security contractors that are some of the largest employers in that area. Government agencies with headquarters in the region include the CIA, FBI, National Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Center, US Department of Defence (the Pentagon), and United States Army Intelligence and Security Command. There is also a high concentration of companies which are government contractors working in the military and intelligence sectors.

In the afternoon, the court heard defence evidence on WikiLeaks 2011 Guantanamo Bay Files publications, which investigative journalist Andy Worthington described as, the anatomy of a crime of colossal proportions perpetrated by the US government on the majority of the 779 prisoners held in Guantanamo.

Mark Summers QC for the defence cited key passages from Worthingtons two witness statements. The journalist had partnered with WikiLeaks to provide critical background and context for the files, which comprised thousands of pages of Detainee Assessment Briefs from the Joint Task Force at Guantanamo Bay (JTF-GTMO), to US Southern Command in Miami, Florida.

Worthington has published extensively on Guantanamo and was lead author of a 2009 UN report on secret detention.

In his written statement to the court, Worthington explained how the Guantanamo files contained detailed explanations of the supposed intelligence used to justify the prisoners detentions, with evidence extracted by CIA torture, either in Guantanamo or in secret prisons run by the CIA.

He cited the example of three detainees whose false testimony, which evidenced the criminal use of torture, was used to convict many fellow-prisoners. False testimony was extracted from Abu Zubaydah, seized in Pakistan in 2002. He spent four-and-a-half years in CIA prisons in Thailand and Poland and was subjected to waterboarding and controlled drowning on 83 occasions.

Ibn al-Shaykh al-Libi was captured in Afghanistan, and illegally renditioned by the CIA to Egypt, where under torture he falsely confessed that Al-Qaeda operatives had been meeting with Saddam Hussein to discuss obtaining chemical and biological weapons. Although this false confession was retracted by al-Libi, it was used nevertheless by the Bush Administration to justify the invasion of Iraq in March 2003.

This monstrous crime, which led to one million deaths and the destruction of Iraqi society, enjoyed the knowing involvement of the British state. Worthington noted that MI6 agents witness[ed] [al-Libis] removal from Bagram Airbase in a coffin box, with MI5 and MI6 agents supplying questions to al-Libis CIA torturers.

Another prisoner, Nashiri, tortured at a CIA black site in Thailand alongside Zubaydah, later successfully brought a case at the European Court of Human Rights, utilising, inter alia, WikiLeaks Cablegate evidence of CIA rendition.

Britains Telegraph newspaper partnered with WikiLeaks on the Guantanamo FilesAssanges media partners at the Guardian and New York Times having already turned on him for irresponsibly disclosing war crimes. Worthington recalled that he and Assange met regularly at the Telegraphs offices for joint meetings and discussions. The newspaper carried no report yesterday of Worthingtons testimony, despite having published the 2011 Guantanamo revelations ahead of WikiLeaks.
district reported 3,298 new



cases in the last 24 hours, taking its COVID-19 count to 2,84,021 on Wednesday, a health official said.

He said the death toll reached 6,529 with 84 more patients succumbing to the infection in the western district.

Also, 1,431 patients were discharged from hospitals following recovery from the infection, the official said.

"Of the 3,298 cases, 1,336 were reported from areas under Municipal Corporation limits, where the count rose to 1,45,291 patients.

"With 764 cases, Pimpri-Chinchwad's COVID-19 count increased to 78,081," he said.

The number of positive cases in rural and Cantonment Board areas increased to 60,649, the official added.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
BANGOR, Maine: The State Department is honoring a former diplomat for bravery when fighting broke out in the capital of the Republic of Congo during a civil war.

William Rowland, who retired in July after 25 years as a diplomat in the U.S. Foreign Service, is being recognized with a Hero of U.S. Diplomacy award, the Bangor Daily News reported.

William Rowland will be recognized for displaying unwavering courage during the evacuation of U.S. Embassy Brazzaville in June 1997, the State Department said in a statement.

Rowland, of Swans Island, Maine, was serving his first posting with the foreign service in Brazzaville, the capital of the Republic of Congo, when government forces attempted to disarm a militia loyal to an opposition candidate in advance of the presidential elections in 1997.

Fighting broke out near the U.S. Embassy in Brazzaville, which is located across the river from Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Rowland helped evacuate Americans living in Brazzaville, helped rescue colleagues from the fighting, and negotiated with the Russian-Ukrainian crew of an airplane to transport him and a group of other embassy workers on a short flight across the river to safety.

Rowland told the newspaper he left Brazzaville with a suitcase and his camera.

Thats all I got out with and my life, Rowland said.

Rowland went on to serve diplomatic postings in Colombia, Brazil, Canada, Venezuela, India, Honduras, Nigeria and Haiti. The State Department has given the award to a dozen current and former members of the foreign service.

Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor
Del. Curt Anderson (D-Baltimore City) said Maryland could pattern its use-of-force policy on one used by the Baltimore City police department. Anderson suggested that the state attorney general, instead of the county prosecutors offices, conduct an independent investigation of officers accused of serious crimes and said officers should be evaluated on their mental fitness every couple of years, just as they are assessed annually on their ability to use a gun.


LEVERKUSEN (dpa-AFX) - Bayer (BAYZF.PK, BAYRY.PK, BYR.L) plans to cut more than 1.5 billion euros of annual costs as of 2024. The company may cut jobs and plans to exit non-strategic businesses or brands, as the coronavirus pandemic impacts its businesses. It expects to take a non-cash impairment charges on agricultural business, due to low commodity prices.



The new cost-savings program comes on top of annual savings of 2.6 billion euros as of 2022, which were announced in November 2018.



According to the company, the new cost-savings measures are currently in the early stages of development. The company will discuss with the relevant internal bodies, including employee representatives, and announce its final decision once it finalized.



The company plans to leave its dividend policy unchanged. But it expects payouts in coming years to be at the lower end of 30 percent - 40 percent of core earnings per share, rather than at the upper end in previous years.



Bayer confirmed its adjusted outlook for 2020 and expects 2021 sales at about 2020 levels despite significant headwinds from the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in the agricultural market.



The company anticipates core earnings per share in 2021 to be slightly below 2020 levels at constant exchange rates.



The company predicts growth and cash flow generation for 2021 to be lower than planned, noting that it can only be partially compensated by further savings measures.



The company anticipates the effects of pandemic will be deeper than expected on the Crop Science business. The agricultural sector is characterized by reduced growth expectations due to low commodity prices for major crops, intense competition in soy, and reduced biofuel consumption.



Bayer expects to take non-cash impairment charges in the mid to high-single-digit billion-euros range on assets in the agricultural business.



The Pharmaceuticals business is anticipated to return to growth in 2021.



The Consumer Health business has shown strong business performance and expects to outpace peer growth in the coming years. The division will complement its organic growth with smaller bolt-on acquisitions and in-licensing opportunities in high-potential segments over the coming years.



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Kostenloser Wertpapierhandel auf Smartbroker.de
(Natural News) Earth is wrapped by a magnetic field powered by the churning of hot molten metals in the outer core. Thanks to this invisible field, the planet is protected from the solar wind and cosmic particles, permitting just enough radiation to tide humans by. This magnetic field, however, can flip and does so many times every million years or so, with the magnetic south becoming the magnetic north and vice versa.

A recent study published in the journal Earth and Planetary Science Letters shows that such a reversal may happen more frequently than scientists previously thought.

According to the team of French and Russian scientists, this is was likely the case during the Cambrian period 500 million years ago, when the Earths early life forms were undergoing evolutionary growth spurts.

Earths magnetic field may flip more frequently

To calculate how frequent field flips were during the period, the researchers looked at the orientation of magnetic particles trapped in Cambrian sediments. The orientation of the particles corresponded to the direction of Earths magnetic field at the time and place the sediment was deposited. The researchers then verified the age of the sediments by dating trilobite fossils found in the same layer.

They found that around 500 million years ago, the magnetic field flipped about 26 times every million years or so  extreme by most standards. Lead author Yves Gallet, the research director of the French National Center for Scientific Research at the Institute of Physics of the Globe of Paris, said that five flips per million years were already considered very high.

Whats more, Gallet said that field reversal frequency plummeted extremely quickly shortly after this period. Between 495 million and 500 million years ago, the magnetic field started flipping around one to two times every million years.

While most scientists agree that field reversal frequency will only evolve gradually across tens of millions of years, Gallets team found a sudden change in reversal frequency occurring on a million-year timescale. He did clarify that the conditions driving the magnetic field in the outer core 500 million years ago were drastically different from those occurring today. Its still a mystery, however, what those conditions were. Figuring those conditions out could help explain why Earth flipped so frequently during that seemingly anomalous period.

One explanation is that temperatures dropped at the boundary between the liquid-iron outer core and the mantle. In fact, previous research suggested that the inner core likely cooled and solidified around 600 or 700 million years ago, so its possible this had a significant impact on the magnetic field, said Gallet.

Is the magnetic field flipping soon?

There has been some talk among experts that a field reversal may be imminent. This is based on the fact that an unusually weak region in Earths magnetic field, the South Atlantic Anomaly, has been growing as of late.

The spot, located several miles off the coast of Brazil and extending over much of South America, causes cosmic particles to dip closer into the atmosphere. In addition, this anomaly appears to be in the process of splitting into two lobes, according to National Aeronautics and Space Administration scientists.

To be sure, a field switch is not going to be catastrophic if it does happen. But it will knock out more satellites and navigation tools and permit more radiation that can trigger a sharp uptick in skin cancer cases. (Related: If the Earths magnetic field reverses, scientists think they know where ground zero will be.)

Still, such a reversal is likely to happen anytime soon, at least not in this lifetime. According to Gallet, It is important to remember that the timescale we are considering for the evolution in magnetic reversal frequency is at least a few millions of years.

For that reason, a magnetic polarity reversal is not for tomorrow, he said.

Physics.news has more on the likelihood of a magnetic field reversal.

Sources include:

LiveScience.com

USAToday.com
South Africa: Two KZN children die after contracting rabies

South Africa has recorded additional cases of human rabies after two children from KwaZulu-Natal died from the virus recently.

According to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases of South Africa (NICD), the first case involved a two-year-old child from Umlazi, Durban, who was admitted in hospital with muscle fatigue, hyper-salivation and paralysis.

It was reported that he had been bitten on his face two or three months before his illness. He had been bitten by a neighbours dog, which was killed, but not investigated for rabies, said the NICD, adding that the child did not receive rabies post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).

On 31 August 2020, the child tested positive for human rabies after three saliva samples were collected and the toddler passed away shortly after hospital admission.

The second case involved a four-year-old child who was reportedly attacked by a dog in Marianhill, eThekwini, in April 2020.

Investigations found that the dog in question was still alive and vaccinated for rabies in 2017. Either the evidence is incorrect or the child acquired rabies from a different source, the institute explained.

Following the injury, the child was taken to a healthcare facility, but no reports for the provision of rabies PEP was available. The child fell ill in August 2020 with symptoms including vomiting, weak appetite, headache and dysphagia.

The four-year-old was hospitalised and also passed away shortly after admission on 25 August.

Post-mortem investigation on brain and skin samples confirmed the clinical diagnosis of rabies.

This brings the total number of human cases of rabies reported in South Africa to seven this year.

Three cases each were recorded in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape and one in Limpopo.

Probable cases are those that presented with a clinical history and outcome, and epidemiological history compatible with a diagnosis of rabies, but laboratory confirmation was not possible.

The NICD said rabies is a fatal, untreatable disease.

However, it can be prevented firstly by vaccination of companion animals, most importantly domestic dogs and cats.

The institute said domestic dogs are linked to the majority of human rabies cases in the country.

When possible exposures do occur, rabies virus infection can then be prevented by prompt application of rabies PEP.

This includes thorough wound washing and treatment, provision of rabies vaccination and in cases where the exposure involved the breach of skin and contact with mucous membranes, the administration of rabies immunoglobulin.

NICD said rabies PEP is a lifesaving emergency medicine.  SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2020-10-01. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Attorney Perry Browder As an ISBA member, I am proud to announce my candidacy for ISBA 3rd Vice President. By utilizing the experience and knowledge of our ISBA members to cultivate new ideas and work together, we can better serve our clients, support each other, and build a stronger ISBA, Browder commented.

With his vast legal experience, Perry is prepared to lead the ISBA through the challenging legal landscape beyond 2020. As 3rd Vice President, Perry plans to increase collaboration through extensive networking and referrals; ensure the best possible representation for clients; and promote enhanced efficiency with a more personal approach.

An active member of the legal community, Perry has been involved in multiple organizations that support and enhance the practice of law in Illinois. He currently serves as a board member for ISBA and the Public Interest Law Initiative. He has previously served as president for the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association and the Illinois Bar Foundation.

As a shareholder at Simmons Hanly Conroy, Perry manages the firms Asbestos Litigation Group. Throughout his 32-year legal career, Perry has represented thousands of clients who were diagnosed with mesothelioma and asbestos-related diseases and helped recover millions of dollars in compensation on their behalf. He has been instrumental in securing some of the largest asbestos verdicts in the country, including a $250 million judgment against U.S. Steel.

Perry is licensed to practice law in Illinois and Missouri. Recognized for his outstanding work in the field of law, Perry has received the following awards during his accomplished career: Martin Hubbell AV Rating; Illinois Super Lawyers; Best Lawyers in America  Personal Injury and Mass Torts. In addition to being a member of the Illinois State Bar Association, Perry is on the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association Board and the American Association for Justice.

As a long-time ISBA member, I am proud to announce my candidacy for ISBA 3rd Vice President. By utilizing the experience and knowledge of our ISBA members and by cultivating new ideas, I am committed to establishing a successful future for the ISBA and its members during these challenging times. By working together, we can better serve our clients, support each other, and build a stronger ISBA, Browder commented.

About Simmons Hanly Conroy

The accomplished legal team at Simmons Hanly Conroy are committed to giving their clients high-quality legal representation. They have helped thousands of clients across the country who were harmed by corporate wrongdoing by recovering billions of dollars in verdicts and settlements on their behalf. Their skilled attorneys provide forward-thinking legal solutions for individuals, families, and communities in a variety of practice areas including: Mesothelioma & Asbestos, Dangerous Drugs & Devices, Class Actions, Environmental, Personal Injury, Sexual Abuse, Commercia/Business matters.

To learn more about Simmons Hanly Conroy, visit https://www.simmonsfirm.com/ or call 1-800-896-7043.

To learn more about Perry Browders candidacy, visit visit https://vote4perrybrowder.com

To learn more about the ISBA, visit https://www.isba.org/
Singaporean painter Cheong Soo Pieng (1917-1983) was renowned for his distinct artistic voice. He described the Southeast Asian indigenous tribal people within a modern language of elongated limbs and torso, with almond-shaped faces and eyes. A driving force in the development of Modernism in visual art in early 20th century Singapore, he was a pioneer of the Nanyang painting style.

The Nanyang style mixed Chinese ink painting techniques and European modernism fused with the tropical landscape. It was practiced by migrant Chinese painters in Singapore in the 1950s. The regional art movement paid tribute to the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA). Lot 825 Sisters (1978) by Cheong Soo Pieng is a stunning picture with both organic and otherworldly qualities and is one of the highlights of 25 lots of fine art going under the hammer in Jakarta on Oct. 3.

Larasatis upcoming Modern, Traditional and Contemporary Art Jakarta auction features a range of Southeast Asian and Indonesian art, from sketches on paper to oil and acrylic on canvas compositions. The works are by an array of international artists, from throughout Southeast Asia to the Netherlands, France, Switzerland, Argentina and Australia. Some of the well-known names included are Rudolf Bonnet (the Netherlands, 1895-1978), Donald Friend (Australia, 1915 - 1989), Siew Hock Meng (b. 1942, Malaysia) and pioneering Balinese modernist Nyoman Gunarsa (1944 - 2017).

Livestreaming from 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, the sale offers works for the tastes and budgets of new collectors, along with intermediate and seasoned collectors. The Virtual Exhibition on Larasati's website allows convenient access to the preview presentation of the sale within a virtual space. This dynamic platform enables visitors to navigate their experience, with a close-up observation of all works.

Buyers with small budgets or new collectors can take note of the following works. Lot 801 Pura Batoe Karoe, Oeboed, Bali (1948) is a limited edition 46 by 29 centimeters print made in Holland, edition 31/100 by the renowned Dutchman Willem Gerard Hofker (1902 - 1981). It has an estimated price of between Rp 5 million and Rp 7 million. Lot 802 is another pencil on paper sketch, Pantji Sarikusuma (1949) 35 by 26 cm, by Dutchman Auke Sonnega that comes with an estimated value of between Rp 5 million and Rp 7 million.

The famous Swiss colorist painter Theo Meier (1908-1982) gained a controversial reputation while living in Bali over nearly two decades. Lot 808 Portrait of a Balinese Dancer (1940) is a simple yet strong 47 by 32 cm pencil sketch on paper by Meier that has an estimated price of between Rp 5 million and Rp 7 million. Lot 821 a. Baris Dancer b. Djanger Dancer (1985) by Indonesian painter Krijono (1951 - 2011), are each 65 by 50 cm oil on canvas, and come with estimated prices of between Rp 9 million and Rp 12 million.

For collectors with mid-range budgets, the following works are attractive. Lot 813 Bali Festival by Batuan painter Ida Bagus Made Widja (1912 - 1992) is an acrylic on paper work depicting a Balinese cremation ceremony that has an estimated value of between Rp 15 million and Rp 18 million. Trajectory: Posthumous Solo Exhibition of I Nyoman Sukari held in July 2019 in Yogyakarta was one of the most important exhibitions in Indonesia during last year. The presentation was two years in the making and featured over 130 works in an array of genres by one of the most prolific and talented Balinese artists of all time. Sukari (1968-2010) unfortunately has been neglected by the Indonesian market.

Due to the extent of the research and documentation of the artist's career along with the chronological presentation of the exhibited work, the organizers were able to create real and tangible values for Sukari's breathtaking body of works. While his paintings are typically dark and moody, the sale of Lot 823 Eternal Flight (2000) presents both intermediate collectors and connoisseurs a rare opportunity to own a work by one of the masters of Balinese art. This powerful 150 by 150 cm oil on canvas composition is signed and dated on the lower left. It has an estimated value of between Rp 40 million and Rp 50 million.

Other distinct works of interest in the sale are Lot 817 Playing I (2015) by Singaporean artist Jane Lee (b. 1963). This unusual and stunning composition pushes the limits of the materiality and techniques. It is a UV inkjet print on stacked maple white 350 grams paper, with dimensions of 15 by 125 cm which has an estimated value of Rp 150 million and Rp 180 million. Lot 819 Untitled (1961) by well-known senior Singaporean painter Chen Cheng Mei (Tan SeaH Boey) (b. 1927) is an oil on canvas composition of a seaside village scenario. Defined by strong yet minimal visual elements, it has an estimated price of between Rp 75 million and Rp 85 million.

Connoisseurs will be interested in the following works. The rich and seductive visual delights of the tropics distinctly resonate from Lot 824 Cornys Pelangi (1989) by Filipino painter Jeremias Elizade Navarro (1924-1999). This potent 47 by 61 cm oil on canvas composition captures the ambience of looking out into nature from a room in the famed Pelangi Hotel in Ubud, Bali. The picture comes with an estimated value of between Rp 90 million and Rp 120 million.

Renowned Indonesian abstract painter Fadjar Sidik (1930-2004) was formerly an art teacher and the director of the Indonesian Academy of Art (ASRI) prior to the university being renamed the Indonesian Arts Institute (ISI) in Yogyakarta in the 1980s. Sidik was revolutionary in his visual language and use of space and form. Lot 816 Formasi Bidang Hijau (1977) by Sidik is a pulsating green and blue 105 by 95 cm oil on canvas composition that comes with an estimated value of between Rp 80 million and Rp 100 million. Lot 825 Sisters (1978) by Cheong Soo Peng will also be on the radars of seasoned collectors of Southeast Asian art and comes with an estimated price of between Rp 650 million and Rp 850 million.

Potential buyers bidding over the phone, absentee bidders or real-time internet bidders are advised to contact Larasati and enquire about the color reproduction accuracy of the images contained within the online catalogue to ensure that what they wish to purchase can be realistically appraised. The absence of reference to the condition of a lot in the catalogue description does not imply that the lot is free from faults or imperfections, therefore condition reports of the works, outlining the paintings current state and whether it has repairs or overpainting, are available upon request.

Provenance, historical data of the works' previous owner/s, is also important and provided. An information guide including before the auction, during the auction and after the auction details, including conditions of business, the bidding process, payment, storage and insurance, and shipping of the work is available. A buyer's premium is payable by the buyer of each lot at the rate of 22 percent of the hammer price of the lot.

The online catalogue, complete with a guide for prospective buyers, is available to the public and should be studied carefully by all wishing to participate in this auction.

To comply with the COVID-19 pandemic regulations, there will be no public viewing days. Viewing will be online only and Larasati will provide bidders with any information concerning the lots offered. However, it may be possible for bidders who have already registered for phone or online bids as well as those who have placed written/absentee bids to view the artworks physically by appointment. Larasati can only provide a limited number of slots for physical viewing, and it will be based upon a first come first serve basis. For appointments, "physical" viewing will not be available one day before auction day and on auction day. Live bidding in this sale is available by phone or online on www.invaluable.com. (wng)
Debenture is secured against all of the assets of HydRx Farms Inc., a Whitby, Ontario research, cultivation, and extraction facility

VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / World-Class Extractions Inc. (CSE: PUMP) (FRA:WCF) (OTCQB:WCEXF) (the "Company" or "World-Class"), is pleased to announce that its 50%-owned subsidiary, Cobra Ventures Inc. ("Cobra"), has acquired a senior secured convertible debenture of HydRx Farms Ltd. o/a Scientus Pharma ("HydRx") in the principal amount of CDN$11,500,000, plus accrued and unpaid interest and charges (the "Debenture") from Aphria Inc. ("Aphria") (TSX: APH or USOTCQB: APHQF).

The Debenture is secured against all of the assets of HydRx, including its real estate assets consisting of a 45,000 square foot manufacturing and distribution facility located on a 2.3 acre parcel of land in Whitby, Ontario, built to GMP and GPP standards. The Debenture is currently in default.

Rosy Mondin, CEO of World-Class stated: "World-Class is pleased to report its participation in the acquisition of this debenture. This interest-bearing, $11.5 million, first-position debenture is secured against all of the assets of HydRx, which includes a state-of-the-art facility and business in which over $50 million has been invested to-date. Having completed its most recent Health Canada inspections, the HydRx site is fully licensed to cultivate, process, produce and sell medical and recreational cannabis and cannabis products. We believe this is one of, if not the most advanced cultivation, extraction, and Cannabis 2.0 production facilities in Canada. We continue to evaluate the opportunities that our investment in this debenture presents for World-Class."

Cobra is a venture between World-Class and a group of investors led by Richard Goldstein, Co-founder and CFO of Canntab Therapeutics Ltd., a Canadian license holder under the Cannabis Act, and President of First Republic Capital Corporation, a Canadian licensed Exempt Market Dealer (through the Ontario Securities Commission).

Story continues

About HydRx

HydRx owns and operates a 45,000-square foot manufacturing and distribution facility in Whitby, Ontario built to GMP and GPP standards. HydRx holds numerous licenses issued by Health Canada under the Cannabis Act to cultivate, produce and sell cannabis products, including the extraction of cannabis resin for use in formulations including cannabinoid-based oils, capsules and other derivative products. HydRx is also a Licensed Dealer under the Narcotics Control Act and one of a limited number of license holders in Canada authorized to conduct R&D and fully handle cannabinoid products with the ability to wholesale, buy, process and sell cannabinoid derivatives, from and to other Cannabis Act license holders, as well as international markets.

About World-Class

World-Class is an innovation-driven company with a principle focus on the rapidly evolving cannabis and hemp industries. Through its subsidiaries Soma Labs Scientific Inc. and Greenmantle Products Inc., World-Class deploys and manages custom-built extraction centres utilizing its custom systems, technology, and processes to efficiently produce high-quality cannabis and hemp concentrates and end-products. In addition, through its subsidiary Pineapple Express Delivery Inc., the Company offers compliant and secure delivery of government regulated products, including medical and recreational cannabis in Ontario, Manitoba and Saskatchewan, and liquor delivery in certain jurisdictions in Saskatchewan.

Investor Contact

Daniel Mogil

World-Class Investor Relations

1-437-266-1968

ir@worldclassextractions.com

https://worldclassextractions.com

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release, which has been prepared by management.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

All statements in this press release, other than statements of historical fact, are "forward-looking information" with respect to the Company within the meaning of applicable securities laws. The Company provides forward-looking statements for the purpose of conveying information about current expectations and plans relating to the future and readers are cautioned that such statements may not be appropriate for other purposes. By its nature, this information is subject to inherent risks and uncertainties that may be general or specific and which give rise to the possibility that expectations, forecasts, predictions, projections or conclusions will not prove to be accurate, that assumptions may not be correct and that objectives, strategic goals and priorities will not be achieved. These risks and uncertainties include but are not limited those identified and reported in the Company's public filings under the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com. 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 information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise unless required by law.

SOURCE: World-Class Extractions Inc.





View source version on accesswire.com:

https://www.accesswire.com/608667/World-Class-Extractions-Subsidiary-Acquires-115-Million-Senior-Secured-Convertible-Debenture-from-Aphria-for-5000000




Jordans King Abdullah put an end to speculations concerning giving an extension to parliament, whose four-year term has expired, when he issued a decree dissolving the legislature on Sept. 27, thus confirming that general elections will be held on Nov. 10 as planned. Accordingly and following the constitution, the government of Omar Razzaz must resign within days and a new prime minister will be named.

A week before, on Sept. 21, the political arm of the Muslim Brotherhood  the Islamic Action Front (IAF)  announced that it had decided to contest the November elections. The decision was adopted after lengthy internal debates following a series of legal and political setbacks the movement had sustained this summer. On July 16, Jordans Court of Cassation, the countrys highest court, ruled that the Muslim Brotherhood is dissolved by law and no longer has legal status, for failing to correct its status in compliance with Jordanian laws. The ruling, which could be appealed, was the culmination of years of legal battles where lower courts had recognized the groups status and restored access to their assets.

Also in August, the government suspended the kingdoms largest professional syndicate with over 100,000 members, the Teachers Association, and arrested its board of directors on corruption charges. The authorities cracked down on protesting members and arrested over 1,000 teachers. The Teachers Association is known for its close ties to the Islamist movement.

IAF Secretary-General Murad Adaileh told Al-Monitor that the decision to participate in the elections was taken after extensive internal discussions. We decided to run in order to confront pressures aimed at weakening the Jordanian state so that it accepts the 'deal of the century' and settle [Palestinian] refugees permanently in the kingdom, which coincides with the normalization race with the Zionist entity, he said. We wanted to be the voice under the dome that expresses the Jordanian peoples rejection of such pressures.

He said that boycotting the election was an option in response to the states clampdown on activists, especially after the crisis of the Teachers Association.

In 2016, the party formed a national coalition that included Christians and leftists and won 15 seats in the 120-member Lower House of parliament making it the biggest opposition bloc.

Hussein al-Rawashdeh, Addustour columnist and expert in Islamist movements in Jordan, expects the IAF to repeat the 2016 model and build a large coalition. He told Al-Monitor that he expects the Islamists to keep their previous number of seats, if not less. What matters is that they will be represented and will work from within the system in a goodwill gesture to the government, he said. He noted that the Muslim Brotherhood realizes that their historical partnership with the regime had ended with the Arab Spring in 2011, when they supported protesters and called for deep reforms.

They cannot afford to boycott the elections because this will deliver a final blow to their ties with the state, so for now they will maintain a minimum presence through their political party, Rawashdeh added.

Pundits believe that the Islamist movement had lost a considerable margin of its public support. But with the absence of influential alternative parties they remain the only organized and experienced political movement. Earlier in September, the Civil Alliance  made up of mainly secular figures and parties that believe in a democratic and civil state  broke up over internal differences and state interference. It had delivered two candidates to the Lower House in 2016.

The governments clampdown on activists and journalists under a Defense Law that was put into action last March to deal with the impact of the coronavirus has made it unpopular among Jordanians and drew criticism from international human rights bodies. Moreover, the government, whose initial measures to confront the pandemic were praised, suddenly lost control as infections spiked in August and September with the daily rate surpassing 500 cases.

Aside from the health debacle, economic growth continued to shrink while the rate of unemployment had reached an unprecedented 23%, while the national debt increased by $5.6 billion in the last three years.

Public frustration with both the government and members of parliament is the main reason why 74% of Jordanians believe things are moving in the wrong direction, according to a poll conducted by the University of Jordans Center for Strategic Studies and published Sept. 27. Only 10% believed that things are heading in the right direction, But what is astounding is that a staggering 59% of Jordanians will boycott the November elections, with 61% expressing no confidence in candidates running.

In contrast, a poll conducted by a local center  Rased  and published Sept. 7, showed that 45.9% of Jordanian youth (ages between 19 and 22) do not intend to participate in the upcoming elections.

Jordanians vented their frustration with the outgoing government on social media, but did not express optimism about the future either.

The head of Addustour daily business section told Al-Monitor that Jordanians want to see the economy recovering as their first priority as well as a successful strategy in confronting the coronavirus. These are two major tasks for the new government  as important as managing the elections in a way to produce a credible parliament that can restore public trust, he told Al-Monitor. Its a tall order and time is running out."
When Lily Rodriguez enrolled in the University of Miami Patti and Allen Herbert Business Schools specialized graduate program in leadership she sensed there were several leadership skills that she wanted to strengthen in order to accomplish her dream of launching a school for children with autism who, like her son, need special educational support.

The faculty guidance and coursework, even the networking that linked her to new grant-writing skills, were exactly what Rodriguez, a former University of Miami employee, was seeking. Ultimately, though, it was her own courage that propelled her to face her biggest fear and speak up for her passion.

In her most important class and for her crowning program project, Rodriguez was tasked with generating a business plan. She proposed the Apollo Preparatory Program, a school for children like her 10-year-old son who is on the less severe end of the autism spectrum. Her student team loved the project and developed it. Then came the day to present the plan in class.

I have a huge fear of public speakingIm massively terrifiedyet Im all about confronting the fear. So, when it came time to present, I was so passionate that I found the strength to overcome the fear and present the plan, Rodriguez said. Her team earned an A for the project. Rodriguez was guided to a professor who helped her with some early grant-writing, and the dream began to roll forward.

Even while in school and developing her Apollo plan, Rodriguez was busy at her professional job and also at volunteering with Cub Scout Pack 69, where her son and five-year-old daughter are both members.

McKesson Corporation, her employer and a leading health care company, encourages its employees to volunteer in community projects and even donates financial support through an official foundation. Rodriguezs Apollo project was certainly a model. She logged upwards of 350 service hours in support of her school project and the Cub Scouts.

Unbeknownst to her, McKessons foundation is also a certifying organization for the Corporation for National and Community Service, an independent agency of the United States government that promotes service and honors individuals whose service positively impacts communities.

We were shocked, Rodriguez remembered, when she and her husband opened the FedEx package a few weeks ago to find a letter from the White House, a certificate, and Silver Medal recognizing her as a recipient of the Presidents Volunteer Service Award.

The Apollo Preparatory Program is on pause because fundraising in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic presents challenges. Rodriguez, who earned her masters degree in 2019, wants to build a brick-and-mortar schoola very expensive projectsince South Florida does not have a school for children on the less severe end of the autism spectrum. She seeks to model the school on the Autism Spectrum Disorder Nest schools she has visited in New York, where children learn together with typically developing children.

Still, Rodriguez knew accomplishing her dream was going to take several years at least. She continues to use the skills and confidence she fostered in her degree program to seek fundraising support and also in her new position as committee chair and a den leader of Cub Scout Pack 69.

The leadership program was amazing and that class in particular taught me a ton that I needed to start my business, she said. And Im a much stronger leader because of it, able to better verbalize my needs, set my budget, and to make the network connections we need.
A state appeals court panel on Thursday rejected the appeal of a 26-year-old man convicted of sexually assaulting a woman after a party at an apartment on the Temple University campus.

So, Steven Taft will keep serving the 2-to 4-year prison term he received as punishment for the crime.

Taft claimed on appeal that the evidence didnt support his conviction. He acknowledged having sex with the woman, but insisted it was consensual. The woman claimed she was terrified and pretended to be asleep during the attack.

The Superior Court rejected those arguments in an opinion by Judge Victor P. Stabile.

At issue was what happened in that apartment on Sept. 4, 2016.

The woman said she went to a party there with a friend, where she met Taft for the first time. She testified that she had little, if any interaction with him, nor had the two discussed sexual activity.

She said she and her friend accepted Tafts offer to sleep over in the apartment in his bed while he slept elsewhere. The woman said she fell asleep but awoke to find Taft was touching her vagina. As she pretended to be asleep, Taft proceeded to have sexual intercourse with her while she stayed still and made no sound, she testified.

Her friend later found her in the bathroom crying. The friend testified that the woman told her she had been raped.

During his trial in January 2018, Taft testified that he believed the woman had consented to sex because she had moved toward and pushed against him.

The jury convicted Taft of sexual assault but acquitted him of indecent assault and aggravated indecent assault. Stabile seconded that decision.

Taft admitted that he did not ask (the woman) whether she was okay or wanted to have sex at any point in time. Instead, he made a deliberate decision to disregard the risk that she did not want to have intercourse and penetrated her anyway, Stabile wrote.

He added that Taft admitted that the only thing (the woman) did that he interpreted as indicating her consent was touching his hand during the party. The mere touching of (Tafts) hand hours earlier was nowhere close to consent to full-fledged sexual intercourse with someone (the woman) barely knew.

The fact that the woman didnt try to stop the assault, or even tell Taft to stop is irrelevant, Stabile found. Although (the woman) did not resist, the crime of sexual assault does not require proof that she resisted, he wrote.
Donald Trump and Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden debating in Cleveland, Ohio. (Getty Images)

While the tumultuous first presidential debate between Donald Trump and Democratic nominee Joe Biden was scarred by incessant interruptions -- mostly by Mr Trump -- both candidates managed to deliver several key quotes that gave viewers some semblance of where they stand on the issues of the day.

The coronavirus is still raging, the economy is still in recession, and demonstrations against racial justice are still leading to tense confrontations between white supremacist groups and left-wing anarchists that have distracted from the largely peaceful protests against police brutality and systemic racism.

Make no mistake: Mr Biden unleashed his fair share of personal zingers against Mr Trump in frustration over the endless personal taunts, attacks, and interruptions from the president.

There will be plenty more where that came from, as the candidates are slated for two more debates before Election Day on 3 November.

From good, to bad, to ugly, here are the key quotes from the first one:

Coronavirus

Mr Trump once again touted his administration's decision to restrict travel from China, which officials have falsely called a wholesale travel "ban."

Trump: "You didn't think we should've closed our country [to China] because you thought it was terrible. ... We've done a great job. But I tell you, Joe, you could never have done the job we've done. You don't have it in your blood."

Mr Biden hit Mr Trump for saying this summer "it is what it is" regarding the American death toll from Covid-19, which has surpassed 200,000 this month.

Biden: "It is what it is because you are who you are. That's why it is. The president has no plan."

Black lives

When asked to make their pitches to black voters, Mr Biden pulled out astonishing statistics about how the coronavirus pandemic has affected black communities.

Biden: "You talk about helping African Americans -- 1 in 1,000 African Americans has been killed because of the coronavirus. ... And if he doesn't do something quickly, by the end of the year, 1 in 500 will have been killed. 1 in 500 African Americans. ... This man is the savior of African Americans? This man cares at all? This man's done virtually nothing. Look, the fact is, you have to look at what he talks about. You have to look at what he did, and what he did has been disastrous for the African American community."

Story continues

Mr Trump focused on Mr Biden's support for the 1994 crime bill that led to increased incarceration rates among black men.

Trump: "You have treated the black community about as bad as anybody in this country."

Law enforcement

Mr Trump taunted Mr Biden for not receiving endorsements from law enforcement groups, even though hundreds of current and former law enforcement officials have backed the former vice president.

Trump: "Name one law enforcement group that has come out and supported you. One. Think. We have time."

He later challenged Mr Biden to say the words "law and order."

Trump: "The top 10 cities and just about the top 40 cities are run by Democrats in many cases, radical left, and they've got you wrapped around their finger, Joe, to a point where you don't want to say anything about law and order. And I'll tell you what the people of this country want and demand law and order, and you're afraid to even say it."

Mr Biden accepted the challenge, and appeared to stumble into a succinct mantra for his campaign message on the issue.

Biden: "Law and order with justice, where people get treated fairly."

Interruptions

Mr Trump repeatedly interrupted his Democratic opponent, which clearly got under his skin.

Biden: "Will you shut up, man? This is so unpresidential. ... Keep yapping, man."

The former vice president even resorted to name-calling to deal with the taunts.

Biden: "Folks, do you have any idea what this clown is doing?"

When the president squabbled with debate moderator Chris Wallace of Fox News about the interruptions, arguing Mr Biden had also interrupted him at times, Mr Wallace put his thumb on the scale.

Wallace: "Frankly, you've been doing more interrupting."

Read more

Trump to far-right extremists: 'Stand back and stand by'

Presidential debate: Rather than ideas, Trump and Biden serve American voters garbage during chaotic clash

Painful to watch: Body language expert explains the first Trump-Biden debate

Trump took control: Chris Wallace under fire for failing to moderate presidential debate

2020 debate: Four things we learned from the first Trump-Biden showdown
The American War period Vietnamese revolutionary resistance base at the Cu Chi Tunnels, located in the suburbs of present-day HCM City, has been recommended as a UNESCO-recognised world heritage site.





The Cu Chi Tunnels are located in Cu Chi District from the northwest of HCM City. The tunnel complex stretches a total length of more than 200 kilometres.

The tunnels were dug with simple tools and bare hands in the 1940s, during the French occupation. The main axis system has a host of branches leading to underground hideouts, shelters, and entrances to other tunnels.

Built by Vietnamese soldiers as shelter from US troops during the war in Vietnam, the tunnels were used by local independence fighters as hiding spots during combat.



The tunnel complex also served as communication and supply routes, hospitals, food and weapon caches, and living quarters.



The tunnel sections in the two communes of Phu My Hung and Nhuan Duc have been preserved. Some parts of the tunnels have been restored to serve tourists.



The tunnels are situated in the areas with highly-durable clay and laterite, so the risk of erosion is low.



Each tunnel is very narrow and often only wide enough for one person to move. Lying at the depth of 3-12 metres, the tunnels could bear heavy bombing.

The tunnels are divided into different parts, including working areas for commanders, health areas and those for food storage and weapons.

Iceland President Olafur Ragnar Grimsson and his wife came to visit the tunnel in 2015 on his visit to HCM City.



The Peoples Committee of HCM City has sent a document to the Ministry of Defence to seek its advice on compilation of relevant dossiers about the Cu Chi Tunnels as the city strives to gain UNESCO recognition of the tunnels as a world heritage site.

The area for military equipment

Mechanics area



A model of Vietnamese soldiers working

The kitchen

Meeting room

Model of a side sections of the Cu Chi Tunnels

Nguyen Quang (Dtinews)
National Commission For Women (NCW) has written to Director general of police (DGP), Uttar Pradesh, seeking an explanation for the midnight cremation of Hathras gangrape victims body in the absence of her family.



The 19-year-old woman died at a Delhi hospital on Tuesday, a fortnight after she was allegedly gangraped and tortured by four upper caste men while she was out to collect fodder with her mother in UPs Hathras.

Also read: Stopped on UP highway, Rahul Gandhi, sister Priyanka set off on foot to meet Hathras family

In UP Gang-Rape Tragedy, 2.30 am Cremation By Cops, Family was Kept Out. @NCWIndia condemn it strongly. Why the family wasnt allowed in Cremation? Why at night?@Uppolice @hathraspolice, said NCW chief Rekha Sharma tweeted.

Dalit community leaders and women rights activists claim that the early morning cremation was done to prevent any mobilisation or protests in the village.

The whole world is watching how the government and the police together cremated our sister in the absence of her family, Bhim Army chief Chandrasekhar Azad said on Tuesday.

Women rights activists like Yogita Bhayana, who heads the group People Against Rape in India (PARI), condemned the incident, describing it as something beyond human rights violation.

Also read: Hathras gang-rape case: Samples sent to Agra forensic lab, say police

It is the newest low. Even in the Nirbhaya case there was nothing like this. None of the cases this happened. The family deserves an answer. They can only do this to a Dalit family..they knew the caste would not retaliate so they did this, Bhayana said.

Kavita Krishnan, secretary of the All India Progressive Womens Association, said that the girl and her family were being denied dignity even in death and mourning.

When the family found her and she was taken to the police station, the police said she is trying to trap people and then she was hospitalised and not kept in ICU for six days and then on her death the police blamed the victims family and they are denying this Dalit family and victim dignity even in death and mourning, she said.
The voluntary retirement scheme of public sector enterprises is built on the narrative of overstaffing and inefficiency. With Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited being the latest to announce a massive VRS, this article examines the path that led to this package. It argues that it is one of the instruments through which labour flexibility is ushered in public sector enterprises, which often end in privatisation. It also discusses the crucial role that BSNL could take up by virtually connecting the physically distanced in the resistance against the ongoing pandemic.

In early 2020, the Government of India (GOI) announced a voluntary retirement scheme (VRS) for workers in Indian Railways. The professed intention was to rationalise the surplus humanpower by 30% such that the railways would become more efficient. Two months later, in July 2020, the Minister of Railways announced the entry of private players in the sector. According to current plans, a substantial part of the railways would be managed by the private sector by 2023. Air India, the ailing national flyer, had been trying for a 100% disinvestment, without success. However, the trade unions in the sector anticipate massive shedding of staff and have raised claims for a VRS (Financial Express 2020). Privatisation of public sector enterprises (PSEs) and VRS in these PSEs had been occurring simultaneously since the early 2000s. The Bharat Aluminium Company (BALCO) announced VRS in July 2001, which followed just after the strategic sale in March 2001. Modern Food Industries Limited (MFIL), another PSE, mooted VRS just after privatisation (Department of Investment and Public Asset Management 2020). VRS was offered to employees of Hindustan Machine Tools (HMT) just before closing it down (Economic Times 2016).

In most of the above cases, the stated goal of the scheme was to increase PSE efficiency, yet the end outcome was privatisation of these companies. It seems that VRS is the preparatory move towards privatisation of the sector. Ever since economic liberalisation, the dominant discourse that overstaffing was the source of public sector inefficiency has been ingrained into the public imagination. So, when VRS for a PSE is proposed, it is often argued and taken for granted that it was aimed at enhancing public sector efficiency. Why, then, do firms get privatised after VRS?
These virtual sessions are the latest to be offered by Linode as a part of its new Linode LIVE! Events program.

Alternative cloud provider Linode will host a complimentary live webinar on one of the most pertinent topics in cloud computing today: data protection. Linodes Fall lineup also includes an on-demand, 12-episode series on Linux Security and a Kubernetes lab on orchestrating workloads with Zeebe. These virtual sessions are the latest to be offered by Linode as a part of its new Linode LIVE! Events program.

Octobers Featured Webinar

Data Protection in the Cloud: The Move to Holistic Backup and Retention will be held on October 14 at 2 PM ET.

As the commoditization of configuration management and application installation continues at an unprecedented pace, data is quickly becoming the only irreplaceable part of technology systems. Data protection, in turn, is becoming an increasing priority for business of all sizes. The Data Protection in the Cloud webinar will provide the latest overview of the data backup and recovery market and address how a holistic data protection scheme solves the problems inherent in block-based and file-based techniques. Participants will also learn how to prevent data from being at risk from outside actors, logical process failure and external failures.

Hosted by Hillary Wilmoth, director of product marketing at Linode, this webinar will feature Gigaom research analyst Enrico Signoretti and James Hunt, director of research and development for Linode partner Stark & Wayne.

***Register for Data Protection in the Cloud here.***

Beef Up on Linux Security

This 12-part Linux Security Server Series hosted by HackerSploit serves as a practical guide for anyone that wants to learn how to effectively secure their servers. In Part 1 of the series, comprising 5 episodes released on HackerSploits YouTube channel starting October 2, viewers will learn how to set up and secure a WordPress server and how to perform a security audit to test the effectiveness of the measures they put in place. Part 2 of the series, comprising 7 episodes that will be available on demand the week of October 19, addresses more advanced topics including the securing of FTP, SSH, web servers and more.

The Linux Security Server Series is taught by Alexis Ahmed aka HackerSploit. With just under 500K subscribers to his YouTube channel, HackerSploit is the leading provider of free Infosec and cybersecurity training.

**Click here for more information about the HackerSploit Linux Security Server Series***

Up Your K8s Knowledge with Kubernetes Labs

In October and November Linode will present two interactive labs hosted by Mauricio Salaboy Salman and Salman Iqbal from Learnk8s, the Kubernetes training company.



Orchestrating Microservices Workflows in Kubernetes with Zeebe: October 29th at 12PM ET. Zeebe is a workflow engine that can orchestrate a sequence of microservices. During this lab, attendees will experience a live demo of Zeebe working and scaling in Kubernetes. The lab will address common challenges as well as tips and tricks to master microservices workflows. Register here.

How Does the Kubernetes Scheduler Work?: November 11th at 12PM ET. This lab will dive into the internals of the Kubernetes scheduler, demonstrating how Nodes are filtered and scored before they are assigned to Pods. Participants will learn how to influence the scheduler with tools such as nodeSelector, node affinity, pod affinity and taints and tolerations. Register here.

Linode previously hosted a two-lab series with Learnk8s in July: Kubeflow - A Cloud-Native ML Toolbox and CI/CD for Kubernetes with Jenkins X are now available free on demand.

About Linode

Linode accelerates innovation by making cloud computing simple, accessible, and affordable to all. Founded in 2003, Linode helped pioneer the cloud computing industry and is today the largest independent open cloud provider in the world. Headquartered in Philadelphias Old City, the company empowers more than a million developers, startups, and businesses across its global network of 11 data centers.


A Scottish National Party MP travelled to London to debate coronavirus restrictions in Parliament after experiencing symptoms before testing positive and taking the train back to Scotland.

In a statement Margaret Ferrier said there was "no excuse for my actions" and said she had referred herself to the police for breaching Covid-19 restrictions.

The MP for Rutherglen and Hamilton West has had the whip suspended, SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford said.

Mr Blackford announced on Twitter: I have spoken with @MargaretFerrier this evening who fully accepts that what she did was wrong.

Margaret will be referring herself to the parliamentary standards commissioner as well as the police. I am tonight suspending the whip from Margaret.

SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon said Ms Ferrier's actions were "utterly indefensible".

She tweeted: "Its hard to express just how angry I feel on behalf of people across the country making hard sacrifices every day to help beat COVID. The rules apply to everyone and theyre in place to keep people safe.

"@Ianblackford_MP is right to suspend the whip."

The MP delivered a four-minute speech to the Commons chamber on Monday before receiving the results of her coronavirus test.

She acknowledged on Thursday that there is no excuse for my actions after revealing her journey while positive with the virus.

The MP said she took a test on Saturday afternoon after experiencing mild symptoms, meaning she should have self-isolated, before travelling by train to London on Monday.

This was wrong, and I am very sorry for my mistake, said Ms Ferrier.

Ms Ferrier spoke in the coronavirus debate in the House of Commons on Monday and, by her account, tested positive for Covid-19 that evening.

I travelled home by train on Tuesday morning without seeking advice. This was also wrong and I am sorry.

I have been self-isolating at home ever since, she said.

The MP said she has notified the police of my actions and has informed the test and trace system and the Commons authorities.

Despite feeling well, I should have self-isolated while waiting for my test result, and I deeply regret my actions.

I take full responsibility and I would urge everyone not to make the same mistakes that I have, and do all they can to help limit the spread of Covid-19, she said.

SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon (right) with Margaret Ferrier, SNP candidate for Rutherglen, during her visit to Burnside Pharmacy in Rutherglen / PA

Margaret Ferrier told the SNP whip on Wednesday afternoon that she had tested positive for coronavirus, nearly two days after receiving the result, the House of Commons has said.

One person was told to self-isolate as a result of Commons tracing.

A Commons spokesman said: Margaret Ferrier informed the SNP whip that she was Covid-19 positive on Wednesday afternoon. The Speaker was informed and the House authorities immediately took all necessary steps in line with their legal obligations and PHE guidance.

On the basis of the information supplied to the contact-tracing system, only one individual has been identified as a close contact in relation to this case and is now self-isolating.

Ruth Davidson, the leader of the Conservative Party in the Scottish Parliament is among ministers who have called for Ms Ferrier to resign.

She tweeted: This Margaret Ferrier case is different  knowingly taking public transport after testing positive for COVID-19 is to put lives at risk. She has to go.

Ferrier has previously criticised Boris Johnsons senior adviser Dominic Cummings for his conduct during the pandemic.

Speaking during Cabinet Office questions on June 11, Ms Ferrier told the Commons: Public health experts have voiced concerns that Dominic Cummings did undermine public trust in lockdown rules, going against the principle of integrity that is in the code of conduct.

Will the Cabinet Office conduct an investigation into potential breaches of the code of conduct by Mr Cummings, or have ministers yet again decided that they have had enough of experts?

Monica Lennon, a Labour MSP for the same region Ms Ferrier represents, took to Twitter to express her shock that Ms Ferrier "put the health of colleagues, rail staff and the public at risk".

Tory MP Alicia Kearns said it was unforgivable Ms Ferrier waited three days to tell MPs she had tested positive for the virus.

She tweeted: The number of people who have been put at risk, MPs and staff in Parliament and their families, and all those on public transport, and those who everyone has since engaged with.

"Its utterly shameful, and to wait three more days to tell anyone is unforgivable."

Labours shadow Scottish secretary Ian Murray said Margaret Ferrier had acted with astonishing recklessness.

Ms Ferrier had previously called into question Dominic Cummings' conduct during the pandemic / Getty Images

This is astonishing recklessness from an SNP MP, which has put peoples health at risk, he said.

Through her irresponsible actions, she very possibly has passed on the virus to a vulnerable person, who may now have Covid-19 and be in danger. She has put passengers, rail staff, fellow MPs, Commons staff and many others at unacceptable risk.

To breach the rules twice is simply unforgivable, and has undermined all the sacrifices made by her constituents.

Nicola Sturgeon must come out and condemn her MPs actions and tell the Scottish people what disciplinary action she will be taking. There cannot be one rule for Margaret Ferrier, another for everybody else.

Environment Secretary George Eustice questions whether Jeremy Corbyn can count to six

It comes after Jeremy Corbyn was photographed apparently breaking the governments rule of six at a dinner party.

The former Labour leader, 71, has apologised for his mistake after he was pictured at a dinner party last Saturday with eight other people. The group of nine, which includes his wife Laura Alvarez, 51, now face fines of up to 1,800.

Meanwhile the Prime Minister's father, Stanley Johnson, was pictured shopping without wearing a face covering in west London.

Stanley Johnson said he was "extremely sorry" after he was caught perusing the shelves at a newsagents on Tuesday, without a covering over his mouth and nose.

A House of Commons spokesperson said: An MP has confirmed that they have been diagnosed with coronavirus. The Houses priority is to ensure that those on the estate are safe while business is facilitated.

We have closely followed public health guidance on the action to take following a confirmed case of Covid on site. Parliament has a dedicated team to support the test and trace teams across the UK, acting as a central point of contact in the event of any suspected or confirmed cases, where an individual has been working on the estate.

We are also implementing a number of cleaning measures to ensure those working on the estate can maintain a clean and hygienic working environment and ensuring Parliament adheres to the Governments working safely during coronavirus guidance.

Our risk assessment outlines the measures we have already put in place to reduce the risk of transmission in Parliament. The Speakers and political leadership of both Houses are keeping the situation under constant review.
Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who is recovering in Germany after being poisoned in Russia by a nerve agent, accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of being behind the attack in comments released Thursday.

Navalnys supporters have frequently maintained that such an attack could have only been ordered at the top levels, though the Kremlin has steadfastly denied any involvement in it.

Navalny, a politician and corruption investigator who is Putins fiercest critic, was flown to Germany two days after falling ill on August 20 on a domestic flight in Russia.

He spent 32 days in the hospital, 24 of them in intensive care, before doctors deemed his condition had improved sufficiently for him to be discharged.

He has posted frequent comments online as his recovery has progressed, but in his first interview since the attack, he told Germanys Der Spiegel magazine that in his mind, Putin was behind the attack, in a German translation of his comments.

I dont have any other versions of how the crime was committed, he said in a brief excerpt of the interview conducted in Berlin on Wednesday and to be released in full online later Thursday.

Navalny spent those two days in a coma in a hospital in the Siberian city of Omsk, where Russian doctors said they found no trace of any poisoning, before being transported to Berlin for treatment. German chemical weapons experts determined that he was poisoned with the Soviet-era nerve agent Novichok  findings corroborated by labs in France and Sweden.

The nerve agent used in the attack was the same class of poison that Britain said was used on former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter in Salisbury, England, in 2018. German Chancellor Angela Merkel called the poisoning an attempted murder and she and other world leaders have demanded that Russia fully investigate the case.

Russia has bristled at the demands for an investigation, saying that Germany needs to share medical data in the case or compare notes with Russian doctors. Germany has noted that Russian doctors have their own samples from Navalny since he was in their care for 48 hours.

Germany has also enlisted the Hague-based Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons for technical assistance. The agency has collected independent samples from Navalny for testing, but results havent yet been announced.

German doctors have said Navalny could make a full recovery, though havent ruled out the possibility of long-term damage from the nerve agent.

Spiegel said Navalny was joking and alert in the interview with them, though his hands shook so much it was difficult for him to drink from a bottle of water. He also reiterated what his team has previously said  that he planned on returning to Russia when he was able.

My job now is to remain the guy who isnt scared, he was quoted as saying. And Im not scared.
Manitoba's Justice Department is going over roughly 70 recommendations it received following a long-awaited review of provincial laws that govern policing and oversight of police.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 1/10/2020 (478 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Manitoba's Justice Department is going over roughly 70 recommendations it received following a long-awaited review of provincial laws that govern policing and oversight of police.

Justice Minister Cliff Cullen said Thursday he has received the preliminary report from a group tasked with reviewing the Police Services Act and expects to release the final report by early December, during the legislative session that begins next week.

Cullen didn't provide details about any aspect of the report, but said the province will be looking at potential reforms to strengthen the powers of oversight agencies, including the Independent Investigation Unit.

The existing legislation, which was amended when the IIU was officially formed in 2015, isn't detailed about certain aspects of the agency's oversight powers and responsibilities. Cullen said his department acknowledges the gaps and plans to introduce new IIU legislation next spring.

"Manitobans have been clear on the need to have the most effective independent police oversight agency in the country, and we agree," Cullen said.

The legislative review was delayed by COVID-19; the report was initially expected to be released during the summer, he said.

Cullen said the government can't "simply cut and paste recommendations" from the review committee, which was led by a Saskatchewan-based non-profit called the Community Safety Knowledge Alliance. It consulted with law-enforcement agencies, police commissions, oversight agencies, police unions, Crown and defence lawyers and First Nations and Metis groups.

MIKE DEAL / FREE PRESS FILES Cullen said Thursday he received the preliminary report.

"A review of the Police Services Act is a large undertaking, and we are taking it very seriously. It is important to stress that this is the beginning of a considerable amount of work that will involve significant research and further consultations with our police agencies, municipalities, Indigenous leaders and other groups," he said.

"The changes resulting from the review will guide policing and police governance in Manitoba for years to come, and clearly we want to make sure that we get this right."

Cullen declined to discuss specifics, when asked whether this year's Black Lives Matter movement, protests against police brutality and calls to defund the police have changed the review's scope or been part of its consultations. He emphasized the provincial government is prioritizing public safety and said consultations will continue as the department reviews the draft report.

NDP MLA Nahanni Fontaine, justice critic for the Opposition, said she is "suspicious" about the delays with this report, but hopes it will lead to a stronger IIU that is fully able to hold police accountable.

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Most of the Police Services Act came into effect in 2012. It doesn't apply to police services' internal operational decisions, but it sets out how police services are delivered in Manitoba and how oversight agencies work.

The law states the government must review the Police Services Act within five years after it was enacted, and must submit a report within a year after the review is done. The review was supposed to point out any gaps in the legislation. Its mandate included a specific focus on modernizing civilian oversight of police  it was meant to determine whether the IIU's investigative powers could be expanded and whether separate IIU legislation would be required.

The review was also supposed to consider whether the police services' internal professional standards units and the provincial Law Enforcement Review Agency are transparent enough to sufficiently hold police accountable for misconduct.

katie.may@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @thatkatiemay
SACRAMENTO  California will create a task force to study reparations for slavery for African Americans, a measure intended to eliminate disparities that linger more than 150 years after the end of the Civil War.

Gov. Gavin Newsom on Wednesday signed AB3121, which directs a task force to study the history of slavery and its enduring inequities for Black people, and recommend who should be eligible for reparations and the form of compensation.

Newsom signed the bill during a virtual ceremony with the Legislative Black Caucus and civil rights advocates, including Assemblywoman Shirley Weber, the San Diego Democrat who carried the bill.

Weber said it will help California confront its role in enabling slavery and continuing problems with racial inequality. Weber called the move groundbreaking for the United States.

California has come to terms with many of its issues, but it has yet to come to terms with its role in slavery, she said.

Slavery was never legal in California, but some white Southerners came to the state with slaves. Many accounts suggest that slavery was practiced in the open, with Black people forced to work on plantations and in gold mines, according to the California Historical Society.

Webers bill gained momentum in the Legislature this summer when protests erupted nationally over racial inequality after a white police officer in Minneapolis killed George Floyd, a Black man, by kneeling on his neck for nearly nine minutes during an arrest.

However, Weber said her measure was the result of years of hard work, not just the politics of the moment.

Those circumstances reinforced the fact that what we were saying all along was true, she said. This is because of the necessity of where we are.

The nine-member task force will be appointed by the governor and legislative leaders. Newsom will have five appointees, and the leaders of the state Senate and Assembly will have two each.

Task force members will study the impacts of slavery from 1619 to 1865, when more than 4 million Black people were enslaved in the American colonies and United States, according to the bill.

In addition, the task force will study how the brutalization and mistreatment of African Americans endured through government actions, including Jim Crow laws, segregationist redlining in housing practices and discrimination in the justice system.

Its recommendations will go to the Legislature by June 2022.

Newsom signed the bill along with several measures designed to deal with racial bias in the justice system. At the outset of Zoom event, the governor alluded to President Trumps comments about white supremacists at the presidential debate the night before, where Trump refused to condemn such groups.

After watching last nights debate, this signing cant come too soon, Newsom said. He called approving the bill on reparations a moment of deep pride.

Newsom also signed a separate measure intended to counter possible discrimination in jury selection, AB3070 by Weber.

The bill, which takes effect Jan. 1, will prohibit the removal of jurors over perceptions they are biased because of their race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin or religious affiliation.

Current law allows prosecutors and defense attorneys to remove prospective jurors through peremptory challenges. Discrimination is already illegal, but proving that a removal is based on bias is difficult.

Webers bill will make it easier to challenge removals, allowing a judge to reverse a peremptory challenge if there is a substantial likelihood that the action was discriminatory. The current standard requires more evidence of discrimination.

The bill was opposed by prosecutors and law-enforcement groups. They said the measure was too sweeping and could damage decades of law used to shape the jury-selection process.

Weber said lawyers are far more likely to try to strike Black and Latino candidates from juries than members of other demographic groups, making it difficult for people of color to receive a fair trial by a jury of their peers.

She thanked advocates and Newsom for pushing the bill forward, with so many others fighting against us every step of the way. She added, You know, I always take the hard things in life.

Dustin Gardiner is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: dustin.gardiner@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @dustingardiner
With iOS 14, Apple has not only greatly improved the home screen experience on the iPhone but also made some meaningful improvements to CarPlay. If you heavily use CarPlay while driving, you are going to appreciate the new changes that iOS 14 will bring to it. Below are all the Carplay features and improvements in iOS 14.

One of the reasons why CarPlay is so popular among iPhone users is that it easily and safely lets them access important functions of their device while driving their vehicle. Using CarPlay, they can easily respond to incoming text messages, change the music, get directions to where they want to go, and more. Despite CarPlay being very good though, it has its own set of limitations and with iOS 14, Apple is removing some of them while further improving it as well.

While you are at it, make sure to also check out all the new iOS 14 features for iPhone as well.

New iOS 14 CarPlay Features

1. Wallpaper Support

This might seem like a small deal but CarPlay in iOS 14 will gain background wallpaper support. This means you will no longer have to look at the black wallpaper of CarPlay and can select from one of the five pre-loaded wallpapers in the first beta of iOS 14. The CarPlay wallpaper that you set will be different from the wallpaper of your iPhone as well.

Disappointingly, you cannot set any image of your choice as CarPlay background. Apart from setting a solid dark or white background, Apple has bundled five wallpapers for CarPlay in iOS 14 that can change appearance based on the dark/light theme.

2. Support for New Categories of Apps

Apple has always supported only a limited kind of apps for CarPlay. With iOS 14, it is adding support for new categories of apps in CarPlay to keep up with the times. This includes apps that can show EV charging stations, parking apps, food delivery apps, and more.

3. Siri Improvements

Siri is getting smarter as a part of the iOS 14 update which means that the experience of using the digital assistant in CarPlay is also going to improve. You will be able to use Siri in CarPlay to send audio messages to your friends and family and also share ETAs with them. While it is already possible to send text messages using Siri in CarPlay, the addition of audio messages is new and might be useful for many especially since the digital assistant tends to struggle to understand non-American accents.

4. Horizontal Status Bar

Users who have a car with a portrait display will now get an option in CarPlay in iOS 14 to move the status bar to the bottom of the screen for a better layout and wider app view.

5. Support for Chinese and Japanese Keyboards

CarPlay in iOS 14 will support Chinese and Japanese keyboards thereby allowing users to easily search for their point of interest in navigation apps.

6. Improved Messaging and VoIP Apps

Thanks to API improvements in iOS 14, all existing audio, messaging, and VoIP apps will also be able to offer a better CarPlay experience. All messaging and VoIP apps will be able to show a list of the previous conversations and contacts, while audio apps will be able to show album art within lists.

7. CarKey

Ok, this is not really a CarPlay feature but it is definitely related to it. Apple is going to let you use your iPhone as the key for your vehicle. Using CarKey, you will be able to unlock your car using your iPhone, and then when you place the phone on the wireless charger inside the cabin, you will be able to start the vehicle by pressing the Ignition button.

This feature will be available on iPhones with a U1 chip meaning the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 series of devices are going to be supported. While this feature will be present in iOS 14, Apple is also going to bring it to iOS 13 with a future software update. It goes without saying that you must have a car that will also support CarKey.

What do you think about these improvements to CarPlay in iOS 14? Do you think there are other improvements that Apple needs to make to CarPlay? Drop a comment and let us know!
Grant Denyer and his wife Chezzi recently announced that they are expecting their third child in March 2021.

And on Wednesday night, Chezzie Denyer shared an adorable update on her pregnancy.

Posting to Instagram, the 40-year-old expectant mum shared a short clip of the baby's sonogram at 19 weeks and explained that she and Grant are 'so excited'.

Growing bub: Posting to Instagram, Chezzi Denyer shared a short clip of her baby's sonogram at 19 weeks and explained that she and Grant are 'so excited'

'Got to see our little growing bubba today.. Shed a few tears of happiness,' she captioned the clip.

'We are just so excited - such a special time in our house... Weve waited so long for this moment and we are cherishing every step! And look at that little button nose.'

Chezzi's sweet update comes after she was left outraged after receiving rude comments from strangers about her decision to have a child at 40.

When four becomes five! Grant Denyer and his wife Chezzi (pictured with their two daughters Scout, four, and Sailor, eight) recently announced that they are expecting their third child in March 2021

Taking to Instagram last month, the mum-of-three shared several examples of the disgraceful comments she's received from strangers in her hometown of Bathurst.

She wrote: 'I am 40 years old and having a baby... I live in country NSW and get comments like... "Why would you at your age?" "Was it an accident?" "Are you worried something will be wrong with the baby?"'

Former TV producer Chezzi, who shares daughters Scout, four, and Sailor, eight, with her husband, explained that despite the negativity in her local area, she has received plenty of positive messages from friends living in other parts of Australia.

Unkind: Chezzi Denyer has been left outraged after receiving rude comments from strangers about her decision to have a child at 40

'But on the flip side, many of my friends 40+ living in Sydney or Melbourne are only now trying to have their first child,' she explained.

She then added that she feels more 'calm and confident' this time round and she credits that to her age.

'There's something you don't have when you're really young and that is wisdom.. and my ripe old age of 40 I feel I have plenty,' she concluded.
Four mud-covered theft suspects were arrested in rural Clackamas County early Tuesday morning when deputies came upon them as they walked down a highway with more than 60 pounds of cannabis plants in duffel bags and protruding from their pockets, officials said.

Sheriffs deputies responded about 3:30 a.m. to calls of people walking on Oregon 211 near South Palmer Road outside of Molalla. Deputies soon came upon four men walking on the side of the road carrying large bags.

A green leafy plant was protruding from the opening of at least one bag. Green leaves were poking out of the pockets of the subjects, the Clackamas County Sheriffs Office said in a statement. One subject was carrying a large bushel of plants in his arms in addition to his bagful.

As the deputies flashed their lights and confronted the suspects, one tossed a duffel bag down a nearby embankment.

After the suspects were detained, investigators learned the plants were stolen from a nearby legal grow operation. The would-be burglars had heard about a farm from a friend, and one of them had taken a bus from Portland to the area.

What they had not heard, according to the sheriffs office, was that the plants were a strain high in CBD and low in THC, the psychoactive chemical in recreational marijuana.

The owner of the farm arrived and identified the plants as hemp, which only contains a minimal amount of THC; these plants are mostly used for therapeutic CBD oils, and would not have delivered the intoxicating effect hoped for by the suspects.

The plants, valued at about $2,500, were returned to the owner of the farm and the suspects  Sebastian Wade Roby, 19, of Oregon City; Jason Patrick Troyer, 21, Tanner Leslie Giles, 20, and Donovan Allan Hall, 22, all of Portland  were arrested on suspicion of theft and trespassing.

-- Kale Williams; kwilliams@oregonian.com; 503-294-4048; @sfkale
A Co Down business owner who launched a global cosmetics range has spoken about defying the pandemic to open a new 250,000 flagship store in Belfast.

Brendan McDowell from Annalong, founder of BPerfect Cosmetics, spoke to the Belfast Telegraph ahead of opening his new Mega Store in CastleCourt Shopping Centre today.

Having famously once turned down an 80,000 investment on Dragons' Den, his beauty brand was started with no more than 500 and is now in demand in thousands of outlets around the world.

"Opening the store has been really scary, but at the same time I started my business in the recession eight years ago and it flourished," he told the Belfast Telegraph.

"It's the same with the pandemic - as unfortunate as it is that there's casualties I feel that there's also opportunities for smaller businesses.

"For us it wouldn't have been possible a year ago to open such a large store on the high street, but we were able to negotiate a good deal on rent and the length of the contract."

Adding celebrity star power to the launch was former EastEnders actress and 'Queen of the Jungle' Jacqueline Jossa.

"I wanted to make sure I was working with someone who was extremely credible," he said.

"I didn't want an overnight star, I wanted someone who has had to work to get where they are. Jacqueline has worked extremely hard for 10 years in EastEnders... and I couldn't have picked a better person because people really look up to her."

Having started from humble beginnings, Brendan celebrated another milestone yesterday by gifting his mum Ann with a brand new Range Rover for her 60th birthday.

"She said she never thought she would ever drive a car like the one I got her, so it's just really nice and sweet to hear your mother say that."
Brazzaville, Congo (PANA)  The UN World Health Organisation (WHO) Regional Director for Africa, Matshidiso Moeti, has condemned reports of allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse by aid workers, who identified themselves as working for the WHO Ebola response in the Democratic Republic of the Congo describing them as "deeply horrific and heartbreaking"
Nikita Sharma By

Express News Service

Ganesh Chaturthi this year was celebrated low-key, and Durga Puja preparations appear to be following the same route. With Covid-19 cases in Delhi on the rise, the Bengali Association and Kali temples have decided to tone down the festivities.

Noida Kalibari



Noida Kalibari, Sector 26, will only conduct the Ghat (Kalash) Puja. For our 38th year of celebration, we will not have an idol, but we are thinking of putting a small photograph of Maa Durga at the Bedi in the temple, says Anupam Banerjee, Executive Member, Managing Committee.

Entry will be restricted for visitors, but the puja, Pushpanjali, Shandhya aarti, Sandhi puja and Vijaya Dashami will be live streamed on all the four days. Devotees can give pushpanjali at home with flowers in hand.

To avoid any touching, we will not accept any kind of puja offerings. thali, fruits or sweets from devotees. But donations are welcome as it is very important to run the daily expenses of the temple throughout the year, adds Banerjee. The Noida Kalibari used to be a hit for its theme-based pandals.

Last year, we created a replica of Badrinath Temple. Prior to that, it was Dakshineshwar Temple. At a time, 4,000-4,500 people used to have bhog here each day, but this time we want to send the Bhog to devotees home via online delivery, adds Banerjee.

The Noida Kalibaris expenses will only reach Rs 5-6 lakhs, compared to previous years  Rs 65-70 lakhs. Largely because there will be no food, display stalls and cultural programmes organised.

Paschim Vihar Bengal Association



Paschim Vihar Bengal Association has been celebrating Durga Puja for 30 years, and had themed last years pandal on Mahatma Gandhis 150th birth anniversary.

But since we are grappling with Covid-19, we have to keep our emotions intact and follow the norms set by the government. We will only do a Ghat (Kalash) Puja within the Kali Mandir premises, says Vice- President Monojit Mukherjee.

The aarti and pushpanjali will be live streamed on their Facebook page. Over 3,000 devotees across Delhi visited this pandal last year and expenses reached nearly Rs 35 lakh.

This time, we will not exceed 1 lakh. We will not call over Dhaki (a team of 11 that play the drums), but we have paid them so they can sustain themselves, adds Mukherjee.

CR Park Kali Mandir Society



CR Park, famous for its pandals and celebrations, used to have 10 different pujas every year. But this time, only one puja will be held at the Kali Mandir, shares Bhaskar Basu Roy, Executive Member, CR Park Kali Mandir Society.



But these nine associations will hold just a one-day Kalash puja with water from the Ganges. Ours will be a low-key affair. We will keep a small idol, but only 30 core members and the priests will be allowed to partake in the five-day puja.

Provision has been to deliver readymade bhog prasad comprising five items to those living within a range of 2 km and book it from their website.



We had spent Rs 60-70 lakh last time, largely money through advertisements. But we have started organising cultural competitions Bengali recitation, songs and dance on weekends online that are telecasted through Zoom, Roy adds.

Society Vice-President Anjanesh Bhattacharya informs that they have collaborated with the local Den Cable that will telecast all the aartis and rituals being done from 6:00am to 1:00pm. All subscribers of the cable can watch it, he adds.

Dwarka Bangiya Samaj



In its 19th year of holding Durga Puja festivities, only the ghat puja will be done on all five days, and just the 1-2 women performing it will be let in, confirms General Secretary BK Barua.

Even I wont visit the place where the puja will take place. I am 62 years old and I never saw Durga Puja being celebrated this way. Ours is one of the biggest puja in India. We used to start preparing for it in June, and get sponsorships from big organisations such as SBI and other corporates. But due to job loss, people are not in the condition to donate.

While members and devotees are said to be feeling gloomy about these new normal methods, Banerjee is already looking ahead, and says, If everything goes fine, we will celebrate with extravagance next year.

In a nutshell



CR Park used to have 10 different pujas every year, but now only one puja will be held at the CR Park

Kali Mandir. Only 30 core members and the priests will be allowed to partake in the five-day puja here.
The Father Tom Campsite opened earlier this year for through-hikers on the Appalachian Trail. Cheshire became an Appalachian Trail Community two years ago. Hikers have access to water, electricity, a portable toilet and bikes. PreviousNext

Cheshire's AT Campsite 'Smashing Success'



The Selectmen voted to dispose of the former Water Department building. It will either be moved or demolished. CHESHIRE, Mass.  The town's camping site for Appalachian Trail hikers has been a "smashing success."

The Father Tom Campsite near the town garage opened earlier this year, more than a year after the idea was first broached to offer a replacement for St. Mary's Church, which had long hosted hikers. It's named for the church's former pastor, the Rev. Thomas Begley.

"It's winding down now, but I just want to say it was a smashing success, and hikers were thrilled beyond belief to stay there," said Eileen Quinn, head of the Appalachian Trail Committee told the Selectmen on Tuesday.

Quinn said she checks in on an app where through-hikers leave comments and reads what they put in the sign-in book.

Two hikers had posted that they were going to continue through until the saw the campsite, which has electricity and USB ports for charging phones and devices, water, a picnic table, portable toilet and bicycles.

"They were thrilled and like amazed that there was electricity and bicycles and they were just ... it's going to be famous and the words going get out from Maine to Georgia," she said.

Quinn said she wanted to make town officials aware of how the campsite was being received. Volunteers have been going to the site regularly for cleaning, checking with hikers and "dealing with whatever is there."

"Thank you for all the town support," she said. "It's really been a wonderful, positive thing."

Chairwoman Michelle Francesconi, who had been one of the advocates for the site before being elected to the Selectmen, thanked her for sharing the information.

"Obviously this year had a whole bunch of ups and downs and we weren't sure exactly ... we didn't have a grand opening, but at the same time, every time I did encounter people there everyone seems happy," she said. "And I've heard nothing but good things even from community members so kudos to you and your team, and all the volunteers that have assisted. I'm glad it was a success."

The subject of the campsite had "circled around" from a conversation about the disposal of a structure on the site that had been part of the Water Department. There are some supplies still in the building that will be removed.

Francesconi said there was one person who inquired about moving the building and volunteer interest in demolishing it. Once the vote made it available for disposition, she suggested seeing if there was community interest in moving the structure before demolishing it.

Gary Trudeau, who attended remotely, said Quinn had asked him to look at the one-story building. He wasn't sure it was up to being moved because sections of the floor and supports are rotted.

He volunteered to tear down the structure with his excavator and load it into dumpsters provided by town for the purpose.

Francesconi said she was aware of the rot and if no one had inquired about the building, "we probably would have moved forward demolition right from the get go."

It would likely be spring anyways before the town could inspect for asbestos, coordinate dumpsters, acquire permits and get through the winter, Trudeau said.

In other business, the board voted to set trick-or-treat hours from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Oct. 31 with plans to continue discussions with the Police Department on a possible town-sponsored candy distribution or providing safety tips to the community. Officials will also be considering what other towns are doing and public health data closer to the event. The vote was three in favor with Mark Biagini abstaining.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Controls has issued guidelines that puts door-to-door trick or treating as high risk for transmission of COVID-19.

"It is an event that is within the jurisdiction of each individual homeowner whether or not they distribute candy and people can chose to trick or treat or not," said Francesconi.

 The board appointed Ray Killeen and Gene Pierce as transfer station attendants and to make all members of the Conservation Commission special municipal employees.

 Saturday, Nov. 21, from 9 to 7 was selected as the date for a debt exclusion vote to purchase a new highway truck and related equipment for $130,000. Annual town meeting approved the borrowing on Sept. 16.
The National Council of Students (CNE) said on Thursday that the government should ensure the need for devices necessary for online courses is covered, so as not to reach the "embarrassing" situation of "moving around" tablets from one school to another.

"The inability of the Romanian Government to provide the devices needed for online teaching has devastating effects on students learning online in communities severely affected by COVID-19. Instead of setting up cab services for tablets, moving around the electronic devices from one student to the other, the authorities should make sure that the need for devices is covered, so that students are not put in embarrassing situations, having to walk the tablets from one school to another. Let's be serious!" said Rares Voicu, president of the National Council of Students, according to a press release.CNE emphasizes that the Government has the duty to comply with Law 109/2020, according to which the Ministry of Education and Research provides, upon request, an electronic device connected to the Internet to any student or teacher who requests it.The organization recalls that it has requested "ever since" May a phased centralized procurement."More than two weeks after the start of the school year, the distribution of tablets has only just begun, despite the fact that more than 580 educational units are in the red scenario, which involves the exclusively online attendance of students to classes," the students' representatives explain.Prime Minister Ludovic Orban said on Wednesday that the tablets would be given to pupils on loan, and could be redistributed to schools in other localities, depending on the evolution or involution of the number of COVID-19 cases.
Government has been accused of taking up privately owned businesses and claiming them as the fulfilment of their One District One Factory (1D1F) campaign promise.

Former NDC Member of Parliament for the North Dayi Constituency, George Loh, for instance, has accused the government of taking glory for what it has not worked for .

Former President John Dramani Mahama has also accused the NPP of failing to deliver on its promises because the factories are not evident enough.

But a Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Robert Ahomka-Lindsay on Citi FM's Voters' Diary refuted this claim saying Of the 232 1D1F companies that are currently in various stages of completion, only 68 of them are what you may call existing companies, 164 are new. 

He further clarified that the government opted to collaborate with the 64 private sector industries to support them and not to score cheap political points.

Some of these companies do not have the strength to produce enough for the internal market not to talk of the external one. We know we need more new companies because we are growing, but in growing, you don't abandon existing ones. Should we not provide support for such factories to expand enough to reach the external market?

Anyone who says we should have abandoned existent projects and start new ones does not understand the nature of the business, he added.

The role of Ghana export-import Bank in Ghana's industrialization through 1D1F initiative

GEXIM has funded the establishment of indigenous factories , which are helping to process raw materials into secondary products thereby encouraging the production and purchasing of Made in Ghana products hence, limiting our dependence on foreign goods or products.

Building on several years of robust growth, the government has instituted the One District, One Factory (1D1F) initiative to increase industrial capacity and output. This is to boost the value-added components of the country's manufactured exports.

With the focus on Poultry Pharmaceuticals, Cassava, Shea butter, Garments, Pineapples and mangoes, Creative arts, Oil palm, Cashew, and Cocoa, GEXIM is positioned for a Made-in-Ghana drive that exposes the finished products derived from these raw materials.

---citinewsroom
Addressing systems of social, economic and environmental oppression is intrinsic to Heifer Internationals work. As an organization, we strive to end hunger and poverty while caring for the Earth. But we must remember that poverty is not an accident. When specific groups of people experience similar forms of socioeconomic marginalization, that is by design.

In this series, we are exploring the intersection of historical racism and agricultural development, examining the impact on Black, Indigenous and people of color to contextualize how hundreds of years horrors continue to shape and influence the lives of the families with whom we work.

Cardamom is known as the queen of spices, and it comes with a price tag to match the name  its the worlds third most expensive spice, after saffron and vanilla. But while companies, traders and intermediaries extract profit from cardamom, producers struggle to get by. In the case of cardamom, most of the worlds production comes from Indigenous Guatemalan farmers who historically have been marginalized, robbed of land, excluded from national and international economies, and targeted by acts of unconscionable violence, all of which erode their present-day ability to maintain a dignified standard of living.

Miguel Xo Pop walks down a road in Alta Verapaz. Photo by Dave Anderson.

Today, about two-thirds of all cardamom on the International market comes from the cloud forests of Guatemala, primarily in the department of Alta Verapaz, but the aromatic spice originates in the Western Ghats mountain range in Indias state of Kerala. According to Sanskrit texts, farmers in what is now Kerala were cultivating the Indian culinary staple as far back as 3000 B.C. The spice extended its reach via the Silk Road and other trade routes, becoming a valued commodity in ancient Greece, Rome and Egypt as well as Babylon, Assyria and China. Cardamom is a stalwart in modern cuisines from Southeast Asia to the Middle East to Scandinavia, and its used popularly in curries, chewing gum and gin.

Despite its global popularity, much of the worlds supply of the commodity came from wild Kerala cardamom until the 1800s, when the British established plantations in parts of the country, including the Western Ghats, where they already had coffee plantations. In 1914, a German plantation owner named Oscar Majus Kloeffer set out to undercut Indias near monopoly by planting green cardamom from Kerala at his coffee estate in Coban, Guatemala. The mountains of Alta Verapaz turned out to be an exceptionally productive home for the plant. Guatemala was a leading exporter of the crop by the 1970s; since 2000, the country has been the worlds leading producer of cardamom.

Nearly 70% of Guatemalas cardamom comes from 300,000 farmers in Alta Verapaz using less than 10 acres of land each. On those small swaths of land, the majority of farmers are Qeqchi, an Indigenous Maya group, and virtually all of them are living in poverty. This did not happen through coincidence.

COLONIAL SEEDS OF OPPRESSION

The oppression of the Indigenous peoples in what is now Alta Verapaz began after the arrival of Spanish colonizers in the 16th century. By 1524, Spain had subjugated native populations to establish the colony of Guatemala, but Maya groups in Alta and Baja Verapaz resisted more successfully by leveraging heavily forested or mountainous terrain to their advantage.

After a protracted military failure to steal more land and control an unwilling populace, the Spanish turned to religion. In the 1530s, a Dominican friar named Bartolome de Las Casas proposed using conversion to Catholicism instead of violence to secure the area for both Spain and God. On this front, the Spanish succeeded, naming the region Verapaz, or true peace. The region did not live up to its name, as colonists invaded Verapaz for slaves and lands shortly after.

Freshly picked cardamom in Alta Verapaz, Guatemala. Photo by Dave Anderson.

In the late 17th century, several Indigenous groups were forcibly relocated to Alta Verapaz from other parts of Guatemala and Belize, where they joined the Qeqchi population. Spain continued to exploit forced labor and land until 1821, when authorities withdrew, and Guatemala declared independence. But even after independence, some areas of Guatemala like Alta Verapaz entered into a second era of colonization.

Alta Verapaz was affected by a different model after independence, and this was opening the door to foreign immigration, said Gustavo Hernandez, Heifer Guatemalas country director. A serious problem was that the government did not recognize the land rights of the Indigenous population. The government considered their lands public lands and granted them to immigrants.

Under the authority of President Justo Rufino Barrios, Europeans  mostly Germans  were invited to take communal Maya lands to turn into coffee and sugar cane plantations. The people living on the land were considered part of the economic transaction and used for labor in the fields. Those who fought against the loss of their land and freedom were killed or run off. Indentured Maya workers earned a paltry wage in an illegitimate currency that could only be used to buy food and clothing from stores on the plantations.

Mozo colono is the term given to those original families of the territories that were included as part of the farm, said Hernandez. Its a grave violation of human rights.

Its this system, known as the finca system, that Oscar Majus Kloeffer took advantage of as he experimented with growing cardamom from Kerala on his coffee plantation in Coban. Although the primary justification cited for the finca system was foreign investment, it was permeated with the idea that Indigenous cultures were inferior to the rest of the population.

From the beginning there was a belief in the need to make the nation whiter in order to improve the race, said Marta Elena Casaus Arzu, a Guatemalan-born professor of political science, sociology and history at the Autonomous University of Madrid and author of Guatemala: Lineage and Racism, in an interview for digital newspaper El Faro.

It has become naturalized, because racism not only serves to justify exploitation, domination and oppression  it also serves to unify both the ruling class as well as the middle classes, who want to whiten themselves in hopes of joining the ruling class, Casaus Arzu said, adding later that to be Indigenous in Guatemala is itself an offense.

In the 1930s, the government enacted a set of vagrancy laws that forced poor, mostly Indigenous people to work on plantations 100 to 150 days a year, depending on how much land they cultivated. During that time, police officers arrested Maya people for petty offenses or a lack of formal work, and they could only work off the fines by picking coffee on a plantation.

Flowering cardamom in Alta Verapaz. Photo by Dave Anderson.

During World War II, thousands of Germans were deported from Guatemala and other Latin American countries at the behest of the United States government, and some never returned. But the vacated lands were not returned to native peoples.

After World War II, only 2% of the population of Guatemala controlled 72% of the countrys arable land, and only 12% of private land was cultivated. In the early 1950s, as an economic and social course correction, President Jacobo Arbenz passed Decree 900, an agrarian land reform law that would redistribute idle parcels of land greater than 223 acres to agricultural workers. The law could have paved a way for Maya groups to break free from centuries of imposed dependence on an elite class of landholders. However, fearing Arbenz might be too sympathetic to Communist organizations, the CIA orchestrated a coup in 1954, ending land reform efforts and jettisoning Guatemala into political instability.

THE SHADOW OF WAR

From there, the situation deteriorated precipitously for the native peoples of Guatemala. From 1960 to 1996, civil war consumed the country, leaving more than 200,000 people dead and 43,000 people forcibly disappeared. At least 80% of victims were Maya.

In 2018, Guatemalan judges unanimously ruled that the countrys military committed genocide against the Maya-Ixil people, one of 22 Mayan ethnolinguistic groups, in the northwest region. During the tribunal, according to a news report, survivors spoke about the massacres but also crimes of rape, theft of children, bombing, displacement and forced starvation.

But the Ixil people were by no means the only Indigenous group that bore the brunt of the brutality during the civil war era. The Qeqchi community in Alta Verapaz suffered from murders, forced disappearances and other human rights abuses. Years after the war, at a military outpost near the departments capital of Coban, investigators uncovered a mass grave of 550 bodies. After forensic examination, many bodies showed evidence of torture.

From the time of the coup through the decades of civil war, Qeqchi people were continually forced off their lands. In an attempt to escape the violence, mirroring Spanish colonial times, many Maya-Qeqchi fled higher into the mountains, where the difficult terrain and lack of roads made it more difficult to reach them. By the time the civil war subsided, the Indigenous population of Guatemala had not only suffered great loss of life and severe trauma, but many families were further marginalized through societal exclusion.

One expression of racism and discrimination is that [they] havent had access to health or education in any consistent way, and they also havent had adequate access to infrastructure, said Hernandez. There are many faraway communities in the mountains where theres no adequate access to roads. Theres not sufficient infrastructure, theres no electricity. This is an expression of exclusion that we have to look at with public policies as driving forces.

THE RIGHT TO LAND

The post-war years didnt bring much solace to the Qeqchi. Palm oil plantations, hydroelectric projects, mining and other interests pushed Maya people off their productive farmlands once again. A study from Food First and the Institute for Food Development Policy estimates that 11 percent of Qeqchi families lost their land to palm oil and sugar plantations between 2003 and 2012. The finca system eventually ended, but it lasted the longest in Alta Verapaz  through the 1990s. When it did end, families who had worked on the plantations were evicted and not given land on which to live and farm, leaving them scrambling to do so, often into the mountains.

Catalina Chub Caal (left) and Candelaria Sob Tut (right) sort good cardamom from bad. Photo by Dave Anderson.

Now, the majority of the families in [Alta Verapaz farming] communities are children and grandchildren of mozos colonos, said Gerson Coy, who manages Heifer Guatemalas cardamom projects.

In some cases, Indigenous land rights were recognized but not without challenges. Coy explained that Indigenous peoples in Guatemala often hold communal land rights, but the legal and financial systems in the country are designed for landowners with individual titles. One major consequence is that poor farmers are unable to use land as collateral for low-interest loans to build economic momentum or provide a safety net in times of emergency.

If [a communal landholder] wants to go to the bank and ask for credit, everyone has to agree, and the credit is for everybody, said Coy. If one person wants to use the land as collateral for a loan, thats not possible.

Coy said a single 100-acre plot might have anywhere from 20 up to hundreds of owners. If they want to have their own, individual piece of land with a title, they have to get permission from all of the owners, he said. If any of the owners have passed away, a legal restructuring process must take place before the individual can receive the land title.

That process can take three to 10 years for each deceased person, Coy said. This is difficult because sometimes there are communities with 60 property owners and 30 have died. And the cost is $1,200 per person. So this is a huge problem.

MARGINALIZATION AND THE QUEEN OF SPICES

The Qeqchi are among the poorest populations in Guatemala, and Alta Verapaz has the lowest development indicators in the country. Families still suffer from lack of food, health services and education, and its no easy task to escape from systems of discrimination and exclusion.

I looked at some reports from the World Bank, which showed that Indigenous families because they speak a different language, because they dont have access to education and health services  it took them 24 years on average to get out of poverty, but for a Ladino [Spanish and Indigenous descent] family living in the same conditions of poverty, it only took 14 years, said Marta Elena Casaus Arzu.

Some Qeqchi families simply cannot survive in such an environment and leave their communities, making the dangerous migration to the United States. Those who do stay often depend on selling cardamom to make money.

Until the late 1990s, coffee served as the primary focus for farmers in Alta Verapaz. But low coffee prices drove farmers in Alta Verapaz to lean more heavily on growing cardamom. The higher elevation areas the Qeqchi adopted during the civil war proved to be an ideal environment for the crop and production took off, positioning Guatemala as the world leader in cardamom production. But that didnt result in higher incomes for producers.

Cardamom is a way for many people to get out of poverty or get richer, said Coy. Except the producer.

Farmers wait for their cardamom harvest to be picked up. Photo by Phil Davis.

The path from cardamom fields to consumers is a circuitous one, with as many as 24 links in the supply chain, according to Coy. Globally, the commodity sells for about $10 per pound. By the time cardamom reaches stores in the United States, it sells for at least three times that in whole pod form. Yet, in an industry worth nearly $70 billion, the average income for a cardamom farmer in Alta Verapaz is only $185 to $265 a month. The Heifer Guatemala team says farmers need to earn around $400 to maintain a decent standard of living. Farmers receive by far the lowest profit margins, and much of the reason can be traced to the history of marginalization of the Qeqchi people.

There exists an exclusion of cardamom producers from the chain, from the buyers, the intermediaries and the producers, Coy said. Often, cardamom-growing families speak only Qeqchi, while buyers speak Spanish, and since they are isolated both geographically and culturally, farmers are unaware of fair prices.

For these reasons, Qeqchi who sell cardamom struggle in negotiations, and some intermediaries take advantage of that. And since cardamom harvests rot in as little as 12 hours if not processed properly, small-scale farmers feel pressure to take the prices that are offered, even if they seem exceedingly low. Additionally, Qeqchi farmers do not have the access to reliable roads, transportation or heavy machinery that could be used to dry and sell cardamom for a higher price in the city. Traditionally, cardamom farmers work individually and dont consider banding together to strengthen their collective bargaining power or increase production capacity and attract bigger buyers.

An expression of racism and discrimination in our country is the high levels of repression of the government, particularly from the military side, said Hernandez. During the civil war, the levels of repression were so high that any social movement was a danger for the government. Thats why its easy to explain why these farmers, when they got the farm, why they didnt organize or think about cooperatives. They dont think in that way because of the levels of repression and low levels of education.

Heifer Guatemala and Alta Verapaz cardamom farmers are working to change the dynamics of the cardamom industry. Ultimately, the goal is for farmers to have the tools, knowledge, access and infrastructure that allow them to participate more fully all along the supply chain and sell their product to buyers who pay higher prices. That starts with education and training in topics ranging from improving cardamom yields to business management and negotiating a fair price as well as the formation of cooperatives. The programs of Heifer Guatemala are also addressing some of the longstanding systemic disadvantages Indigenous people face.

Were creating a guarantee fund with Heifer Impact Capital so producers can access a line of credit and have the possibility to enter markets, Hernandez said. The fund will serve as the collateral farmers need to access low-interest loans. The loans and cooperative membership mean farmers can add value to their product by drying large amounts of cardamom together, and then they can sell to bigger buyers directly. This not only ensures a living income and full market participation for cardamom farmers in Alta Verapaz but also moves toward undoing the seeds sown from hundreds of years of exclusion, marginalization and racism.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Changing a system deeply entrenched in hundreds of years of oppression wont happen overnight, but your actions can contribute to creating lasting change. Here are a few simple things you can do to start.
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More than one in 10 employees is still on furlough even as the scheme enters its final weeks, meaning more than two million workers face a question mark over their jobs at the end of the month.

Businesses said 11pc of their staff were on full or partial furlough in the days up to Sept 20, according to the Office for National Statistics.

At the same time more workers are staying at home instead of commuting, indicating an important part of the reopening of the economy, including city centres, is going into reverse.

When the Job Retention Scheme (JRS) was launched, it was hoped that the pandemic would be over by now and the economy well on track to recovering.

GDP has mounted a significant recovery, but the pandemic is not over and rising cases mean more workers are following the latest advice to work from home.

Almost one-quarter worked exclusively from home in the final week of September, the highest share since the start of August.

Meanwhile the number who travelled to work at least once fell to 59pc, from 64pc the previous week.

Economist Robert Wood at Bank of America said the revival of the virus combined with the end of the furlough scheme, which will be replaced with a less generous Job Support Scheme next month, will hit the economy hard.

We expect unemployment to double as the government replaces the successful furlough scheme with a short-time working scheme that has limited incentives, he said.

Easing lockdown led to Covid cases rising once more, so we now need to factor in tighter restrictions on activity. Almost one-quarter of the UK population are under enhanced local restriction measures. Brexit uncertainty has risen too.

We expect the economy to stall in the final quarter of 2020 and first quarter of 2021.

However there are still some signs of recovery.

Online job adverts increased to 59pc of their 2019 level, up from 55pc previously. This is the highest level since April, indicating that recruitment is gradually improving.

At the lowest point in May, during lockdown, there were just 35pc of the usual level of job vacancies advertised online.
A 17-year-old Hindu girl committed suicide in Pakistans Sindh province after she was reportedly blackmailed by three men accused of sexually assaulting her, a media report said on Thursday.

The girl ended her life by jumping into a deep well in village Dalan-Jo-Tarr in Tharparkar district on Wednesday, Dawn reported.

Her body was retrieved by the villagers who rushed her to a nearby hospital where she was declared brought dead.

"The girl was raped by three men in mid-July in 2019 and the accused in the case are on bail," the victim's father and other relatives told reporters.

They alleged that the girl committed suicide after she was blackmailed and harassed by the influential suspects who had raped her, according to the paper.

According to an FIR registered in 2019, the three men forcibly took the girl to a house where they raped her and filmed the ordeal.

The trial in the case was delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The trial of the case was delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic. October 15 has now been fixed as the date when evidence in the case will be submitted, said Mohan Mathrani, the lawyer of the victim's family.

No fresh case was immediately registered against the accused after the girl's death. However, one of the three suspects was arrested by the police.

Chelhar Station House Office Mushtaq Malik said that the police would register a fresh case if the family lodges a complaint of blackmail or harassment.

Several people including rights activists have demanded a stern action against those responsible for the crime. People of the Meghwar community and workers of various parties have warned to stage protests in Thar and other areas against the rising incidents of crimes against women.

Prime Minister Imran Khan recently said that rapists should be handed down the most severe punishments to curb the rising sexual violence, such as either hanging them publicly or chemically castrating them.

Hindus form the biggest minority community in Pakistan.

According to official estimates, 75 lakh Hindus live in Pakistan, mostly in Sindh province.
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The SNP tonight suspended its MP Margaret Ferrier after she sparked a coronavirus alert at the heart of Westminster by travelling 400 miles to Parliament from her Scottish constituency while suffering with Covid-19.

Ms Ferrier took a train to London on Monday despite still awaiting the results of a test she took on Saturday after coming down with mild symptoms.

That night she received confirmation she was infected - and rather than self-isolating made the decision to travel back to her Rutherglen and Hamilton West constituency, south of Glasgow, the next morning.

Scottish First Minister and SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon branded Ms Ferrier's actions 'utterly indefensible' and supported the swift decision to revoke the party whip.

Ms Ferrier, who is also facing a barrage of calls to resign her seat, appeared in the Commons chamber on Monday evening, delivering a four-minute speech to MPs during a general debate on the pandemic.

A House of Commons spokesman said the 60-year-old only told the Speaker of her infection on Wednesday afternoon, almost two days after testing positive.

Ms Ferrier, who won her seat back off Labour in December, also referred herself to the police and the parliamentary standards authorities.

Police Scotland tonight confirmed it was investigating and working with officers from Scotland Yard. Under laws that came into force on the day of her positive test, she could face a 1,000 fine for a first-time offence of breaching self-isolation rules.

The MP's behaviour is all the more startling because of her vehement criticism of No10 adviser Dominic Cummings when he was accused of breaching lockdown in May.

Astonishingly, the 60-year-old received a positive result on Monday night and still appeared in the Commons chamber (pictured), speaking in a debate on coronavirus and its impact on the economy and jobs

The following morning she travelled 400 miles back to her Lanarkshire seat by train, without informing anyone of her condition

The actions are all the most astonishing because she was earlier this year outspoken in criticising the Government for defending No10 advisor Dominic Cummings when he was accused of breaching lockdown

Her own leader, Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, branded her MP's actions 'utterly indefensible' and said it was hard to express 'how angry' she felt

Margaret Ferrier's statement in full 'I apologise unreservedly for breaching Covid-19 restrictions by travelling this week when I shouldn't have. There is no excuse for my actions. 'On Saturday afternoon, after experiencing mild symptoms, I requested a Covid-19 test which I took that day. Feeling much better, I then travelled to London by train on Monday to attend Parliament as planned. This was wrong, and I am very sorry for my mistake. 'On Monday evening I received a positive test result for Covid-19. I travelled home by train on Tuesday morning without seeking advice. This was also wrong and I am sorry. I have been self-isolating at home ever since. 'I have used Test and Protect and I have notified the House of Commons authorities who have spoken with Public Health England. I have also notified the police of my actions. 'Despite feeling well, I should have self-isolated while waiting for my test result, and I deeply regret my actions. I take full responsibility and I would urge everyone not to make the same mistakes that I have, and do all they can to help limit the spread of Covid-19.' Advertisement

In a statement tonight Ms Ferrier said: 'I apologise unreservedly for breaching Covid-19 restrictions by travelling this week when I shouldn't have. There is no excuse for my actions.

'On Saturday afternoon, after experiencing mild symptoms, I requested a Covid-19 test which I took that day. Feeling much better, I then travelled to London by train on Monday to attend Parliament as planned. This was wrong, and I am very sorry for my mistake.

'On Monday evening I received a positive test result for Covid-19. I travelled home by train on Tuesday morning without seeking advice. This was also wrong and I am sorry. I have been self-isolating at home ever since.

'I have used Test and Protect and I have notified the House of Commons authorities who have spoken with Public Health England. I have also notified the police of my actions.

'Despite feeling well, I should have self-isolated while waiting for my test result, and I deeply regret my actions. I take full responsibility and I would urge everyone not to make the same mistakes that I have, and do all they can to help limit the spread of Covid-19.'

Police Scotland tweeted: 'Margaret Ferrier MP contacted Police Scotland earlier today about travelling between London and Scotland after testing positive for coronavirus.

'We are looking into the circumstances and are liaising with our colleagues in the Metropolitan Police Service.'

Scottish First Minister Ms Sturgeon scolded her colleague's actions and said she could not express the anger she felt.

Unequivocally condemning Ms Ferrier, she tweeted: 'This is utterly indefensible. It's hard to express just how angry I feel on behalf of people across the country making hard sacrifices every day to help beat COVID.

'The rules apply to everyone and they're in place to keep people safe. Ian Blackford is right to suspend the whip.'

SNP Westminster leader Mr Blackford tonight said: I have spoken with Margaret Ferrier this evening who fully accepts that what she did was wrong.

'Margaret will be referring herself to the parliamentary standards commissioner as well as the police. I am tonight suspending the whip from Margaret.'

The Glasgow-born politician's profile page on the SNP website already appears to have been removed.

Ms Ferrier was among the critics who lampooned Dominic Cummings (pictured giving a press conference in the No10 Rose Gardn in May) for allegedly flouting lockdown rules

Margaret Ferrier said she was 'very sorry' for travelling from her Rutherglen seat to attend the Commons.

Politicians of all stripes tonight lined up to scold Ms Ferrier, who was accused of hypocrisy after bearing down hard on Mr Cummings in May

Margaret Ferrier: Comeback MP who won her old seat off Labour in 2019 - only to be suspended less than a year later for Covid-19 train journey Margaret Ferrier, 60, is MP for Rutherglen and Hamilton West, in central Scotland. As an SNP candidate, she won the seat in 2015 in the party's landslide on the back of the 2014 Independence referendum. She was almost instantly made a party spokesperson on Scotland and was elected to the Commons Scottish Affairs Committee. However she was narrowly beaten by Labour in the 2017 General Election. But in last year's poll she retook the seat. Until tonight, she was the SNP's spokesperson on manufacturing. Ms Ferrier was born in Glasgow but lived in Spain for several years when she was a child. In an interview with the Daily Record, she said she had been a member of Scottish Labour in her youth. Advertisement

Politicians of all stripes tonight lined up to scold Ms Ferrier, who was accused of hypocrisy after bearing down hard on Mr Cummings in May.

In June she told the Commons: 'Public health experts have voiced concerns that Dominic Cummings did undermine public trust in lockdown rules, going against the principle of integrity that is in the code of conduct.

'Will the Cabinet Office conduct an investigation into potential breaches of the code of conduct by Mr Cummings, or have Ministers yet again decided that they have had enough of experts?'

Labour shadow minister Wes Streeting said: 'She was right about Dominic Cummings. Will she now hold herself to her own high standards or to his low standards?

'And which standards will Nicola Sturgeon and the SNP hold her to?'

Labour's deputy leader Angela Rayner said: 'Margaret, all the issues surrounding transmission of #COVID19 how infectious it is, how much pain and suffering it has caused to so many.

'You are an elected member of parliament making laws to protect citizens from Covid, it wasn't one mistake but multiple ones. So disappointing.'

Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross demanded Ms Ferrier's resignation 'with immediate effect'.

Tory MP Alicia Kearns said it was 'unforgivable' Ms Ferrier waited three days to tell MPs she had tested positive for the virus.

She tweeted: 'The number of people who have been put at risk, MPs and staff in Parliament and their families, and all those on public transport, and those who everyone has since engaged with. It's utterly shameful, and to wait three more days to tell anyone is unforgivable.'

A Commons spokesman said: 'Margaret Ferrier informed the SNP whip that she was Covid-19 positive on Wednesday afternoon, the Speaker was informed and the House authorities immediately took all necessary steps in line with their legal obligations and PHE (Public Health England) guidance.

'On the basis of the information supplied to the contact-tracing system, only one individual has been identified as a close contact in relation to this case and is now self-isolating.'

The Glasgow-born politician's profile page on the SNP website already appears to have been removed

Jeremy Corbyn was at dinner with eight people to honour friend who founded Occupy Wall Street after he died four weeks ago - as ex-Labour leader refuses to reveal if he got 200 fine for Rule of Six breach

By Dan Sales for MailOnline

Jeremy Corbyn broke the 'Rule of Six' at a dinner held to remember the late Occupy Wall Street organiser David Graeber.

The former Labour leader, 71 and his wife Laura Alvarez, 51, joined his widow, the artist Nika Dubrovsky, for the London meal.

Mr Graeber, 59, died suddenly early last month in Venice and had been widely credited with helping to organise Occupy and its 'We are the 99%' slogan.

A picture that emerged of the gathering prompted Corbyn to apologise for breaking coronavirus restrictions on the number of people meeting in a household.

The former Labour leader had paid tribute to him in a special film last month and explained how he had become such good friends.

Corbyn said: 'He was a very organised anarchist. What David saw was anarchism as empowerment of people.

'David became a very trenchant defender and supporter of us and I will be forever grateful to him for that.

'I was talking to Nika last night, his widow, and they were discussing performance as a lecturer. Apparently unprecedented numbers of students wanted to come to his lectures.'

Corbyn's spokesman and the Labour Party have refused to answer whether Tooting MP Rosena Allin-Khan's comments this morning that he had been fined were correct.

The former Labour leader, 71, (circled left) and his wife Laura Alvarez, 51, (circled middle) seated with Mr Graeber's widow Nika Dubrovsky (circled middle) at the dinner

David Graeber was professor of anthropology at LSE and also founded Occupy Wall Street

It came after Boris Johnson's father Stanley apologised after he was seen breaking rules on wearing masks in shops.

Dr Allin-Khan said this morning: 'Nobody is exempt and Jeremy Corbyn rightly apologised, it was wrong for him to be at a dinner party with that many people.

'My understanding is that more and more people arrived and when it got over six he should have left.

'He's been fined, that's the right course of action and he's apologised and that's really important.

On his bike: Jeremy Corbyn takes his bicycle from his house in north London for a ride

David Graeber: anarchy and anthropology David Graeber was a professor of anthropology at Yale University but is most famous for his activism. He worked on the initial stages of the Occupy Wall Street movement which saw crowds mass by the buildings to stop them functioning in a protest against economic inequality. Mr Graeber was also a professor of anthropology at the London School of Economics. He was born in New York before moving to London and was married to artist Nika Dubrovsky. He said in 2015: 'Huge swaths of people, in Europe and North America in particular, spend their entire working lives performing tasks they believe to be unnecessary. 'The moral and spiritual damage that comes from this situation is profound. It is a scar across our collective soul. Yet virtually no one talks about it.' Advertisement

'Jeremy Corbyn was wrong , he's apologised and that's the right thing to do and he's paying a fine.'

'We've seen people like Dominic Cummings flout the rules and break the rules saying he was checking his eyesight,' she told Good Morning Britain.

The Labour party and Corbyn's spokesman have been contacted for comment by MailOnline.

He and his guests face fines of 200 each, racking up to 1,800 in total, for breaching Covid-19 rules.

The MP for Islington North last night apologised for the incident, admitting it was a 'mistake'.

'I recently had dinner at a friend's house where the number of guests eventually exceeded five,' he told The Sun.

'I understand that remaining at the dinner was a breach of the rule of six. I apologise for my mistake.'

Guests at the event reportedly included left-wing activists, filmmakers and artists.

One guest got up from the table to take a picture of the other eight, with an unsmiling Corbyn sitting two seats away from his wife.

The 'rule of six' was brought in by the government on September 14 in an attempt to control the spread of a second wave of Covid-19.

Those in violation of the rules face potential fines of 200 each for first-time offenders.

Rule of snitch: How are coronavirus breaches reported and who by? Breaches of Coronavirus rules can be reported to the authorities by members of the public, if they wish. Some police forces have dedicated pages Covid-19 informants can use to dob in regulation-breakers. It requires them to upload information to the force, who will then look over the 'evidence' and decide whether to take further action. The Met Police has a dedicated page called 'Tell us about a possible breach of coronavirus (Covid-19) measures' Councils cannot deal with reports about groups or individuals but can act on tip-offs about businesses in their areas. Advertisement

It is understood the dinner party took place on the same day Corbyn's older brother Piers led an anti-mask rally of thousands of people in Trafalgar Square.

A source said: 'It's clear that Jeremy realised immediately the danger the photo had put him in.

'His face says it all. He knew he shouldn't have been present and he, of all people, should know the rules.'

David Morris, Tory MP for Morecambe and Lunesdale, described the image as 'disappointing'.

'Millions of Brits are quietly sticking to the rules to defeat this horrific virus while Jeremy Corbyn is swanning around at a posh dinner party,' he said.

The rule applies across England by law, meaning that gatherings must be limited.

There are also local lockdowns in place across much of England with some 16 million Britons living under such local restrictions.

Britain today recorded 7,108 more coronavirus cases and another 71 deaths  including a three-month high of seven in Scotland.

Daily infections are up 15 per cent on last Wednesday's 6,178 and almost 80 per cent higher than on Wednesday two weeks ago.

But Britain's infections are a far-cry from what they were during the darkest days of the crisis in March and April, when at least 100,000 people were getting struck down every day.

Rule of Six: The new rules at a glance FAMILY AND HOUSEHOLDS OFF: All gatherings of more than six people will be illegal, putting the traditional family Christmas at risk. A family of five will be allowed to meet only one grandparent at a time, while families of six or more will be banned from meeting anyone. It does not matter how many different households meet up, as long as they stick to the rule of six. So six people from six different households can all get together, but two households of four cannot. ON: The only exemption is if a household or a support bubble is made up of more than six people. Support bubbles allow adults who live by themselves  as well as single parents  to join up with one other household. SOCIALISING OFF: All social gatherings of more than six  whether a book club, dinner party or picnic  are banned. Police will have the power to break up bigger groups in parks, pubs and private homes. An army of 'Covid marshals' will be recruited by councils to step up enforcement, patrolling town centres, parks, shopping centres and train stations and encouraging large groups to break up. People in groups of seven or more face spot fines of 100, doubling with each repeat offence to a maximum of 3,200. OFF: Pubs or restaurants cannot seat more than six people at one table. Hospitality venues can still accept more than six people in total, but each group must be separate and kept a safe distance apart. So a group of eight friends, for example, can't get round the restriction by booking two neighbouring tables of four. And you cannot go to a pub in one group, then join another group. Venues face fines of 1,000 if they do not comply with the rules. Pubs, restaurants, hairdressers and cinemas must record names and contact details of all customers, visitors and staff for 21 days. RELIGIOUS CEREMONIES ON: Churches, synagogues, mosques and temples will remain open, although congregations will be required to stay at least a metre apart. ON: Wedding ceremonies and receptions are exempt from the new rules, and up to 30 guests are allowed but they have to sit or stand a metre apart. ON: Funerals are also exempt, with 30 people allowed. SPORTS ON: Gyms, leisure centres and swimming pools will remain open, as long as they are 'Covid secure' and enforce social distancing rules. Yoga or exercise classes with more than six people are allowed. ON: Grassroots sport is largely unaffected. Recreational sports, including five-a-side football, cricket, rugby and parkruns, can go ahead as long as they follow protocols. But teams of more than six can't go for a post-match pint together. ON: Professional sports and elite training can go ahead. Pilot events for reintroducing fans to stadiums can continue, but with a limit of 1,000 spectators. SCHOOLS, CHILDCARE AND OFFICES ON: Schools and universities are not affected by the new rules. But they must continue to operate under existing guidelines. ON: Youth groups, registered childcare and playgroups are exempt from the rule of six. OFF: The rules still apply outside these settings, so a group of ten school friends cannot go from the classroom to a park, or seven colleagues cannot go from the office to the pub. PROTESTS ON: Protests can go ahead in groups larger than six, as long as they are 'Covid secure'. Advertisement

It comes as Boris Johnson's rallying cry to the nation to keep fighting coronavirus was bolstered by new figures showing the infection rate started slowing after restrictions, including the rule of six, were tightened.

In the strongest evidence yet that local lockdowns are working, results from the largest Covid-19 study in England found the R-rate fell from 1.7 to around 1.1 this month, following the implementation of the new rules.

The director of the study by Imperial College London and Ipsos Mori said the interim findings from 80,000 participants 'reinforced the need for protective measures' to help extinguish the virus.

That restrictions are seemingly helping to stem the spread of Covid-19 will help the Prime Minister's case for imposing curbs to flatten the second wave.

At a Downing Street press conference last night, Mr Johnson, flanked by Chris Whitty and Patrick Vallance, vowed not to 'throw in the sponge' and capitulate to demands to abandon his strategy.

Critics have argued that the recent suite of measures, including local lockdowns and national restrictions such as 10pm curfews on pubs, are ineffective but are laying waste to the economy and infringing civil liberties.

While the rate of infection appears to be falling, the study, commissioned by the Department for Health, found that of the volunteers tested between September 18-26, one in 200 people had coronavirus.

It also revealed the virus to be spreading more among young people, while simultaneously laying bare the North-South divide, pointing to the north west as the epicentre of the UK's outbreak.

Professor Paul Elliott, director of the programme at Imperial from the School of Public Health, said: 'While our latest findings show some early evidence that the growth of new cases may have slowed, suggesting efforts to control the infection are working, the prevalence of infection is the highest that we have recorded to date.

'This reinforces the need for protective measures to limit the spread of the disease and the public's adherence to these, which will be vital to minimise further significant illness and loss of life from Covid-19.'

Despite the green shoots of recovery, the government is still under pressure following the introduction of the rule of six and other lockdown measures.

Mr Johnson was lampooned on Tuesday night and urged to 'get a grip' after becoming muddled with the North East's lockdown rules, forcing him to make a rare apology for 'misspeaking'.

In a toe-curling episode that mirrored comedian Matt Lucas's spoof of government bumbling, the PM floundered as he was grilled on how the restrictions work - suggesting that households could still mix in groups of six indoors.

To cap his embarrassment, Mr Johnson then had to tweet to clear up the confusion, saying he had misspoken and households will not be allowed to mix indoors, regardless of numbers.

Labour's deputy leader Angela Rayner claimed the PM did not understand the rules he is imposing on two million people.

She added: 'For the Prime Minister to not understand his own rules is grossly incompetent. These new restrictions are due to come into force across huge parts of the country tonight. The Government needs to get a grip.'

Answering questions about the North East lockdown at Exeter College in Devon yesterday, Mr Johnson said: 'On the rule of six, outside the areas such as the North East where extra measures have been brought in, it is six inside, six outside.

'And in the North East and other areas where extra tight measures have been brought in you should follow the guidance of the local authorities.

'But it's six in a home or six in hospitality, but as I understand it not six outside. That is the situation there.'

Whitehall sources said No10 had been blindsided by Matt Hancock's decision to press ahead with the new restrictions, which had not been expected until at least the end of this week.

The PM's blunder had uncomfortable echoes of the skit by Lucas, which was aired at the start of the Great British Bake Off on Channel 4 last week.

It saw the comedian dressed up as Mr Johnson taking a faux press conference in Downing Street. Ridiculing the complicated rules, Lucas urged people to 'bake in a tent' if they must, before adding: 'Don't bake in a tent.'

The Imperial College and Ipsos Mori study laid bare the North-South divide, pointing to the north west as the epicentre of the UK's outbreak

In the strongest evidence yet that local lockdowns are working, results from the largest Covid-19 study in England found the R-rate fell from 1.7 to around 1.1

Last night, the PM finally bowed to demand to give MPs a vote before any fresh lockdown restrictions - after furious Speaker Lindsay Hoyle blasted him for treating the Commons with 'contempt'.

In the face of a huge backbench rebellion over the scope of new laws introduced by ministers without being seen by MPs, Health Secretary Matt Hancock confirmed the government would 'consult Parliament' on any England-wide or UK-wide restrictions, and a vote will be held in advance 'wherever possible'.

It came ahead of a vote in the Commons on renewing emergency coronavirus powers, with around 100 MPs ready to force changes if the Government failed to give concessions.

Mr Hancock said: 'Today I can confirm to the House that for significant national measures, with effect in the whole of England or UK-wide, we will consult Parliament  wherever possible we will hold votes before such regulations come into force,' he said.

'But of course responding to the virus means that the Government must act with speed when required and we cannot hold up urgent regulations which are needed to control the virus and save lives.'

Sir Graham Brady, who led the Tory revolt, welcomed the climbdown - which followed weeks of rising tensions with the backbenches. The motion was later passed by 330 votes to 24, majority 306.

Mr Johnson tonight begged Britons to stick with his coronavirus plan, warning that a 'more costly' second full lockdown will have to be imposed unless the public behaves better.

At a No10 press conference with Chris Whitty and Patrick Vallance, the PM said it was too early to judge whether the Rule of Six and 10pm pubs curfew introduced over the past fortnight were working.

And he said that letting the virus 'take its course' risked overwhelming the NHS and many more deaths.

But in a nod to rising anxiety about the consequences of restrictions, Mr Johnson said he intended to update the public more 'regularly' in the coming weeks.
Nearly a year ago, NASA reported that there was a leak on the International Space Station. They carried out multiple investigations to look for the leak, but couldnt really find out where it was coming from.

However, today the leak has been successfully discovered.

Getty Images

On Monday, NASAs ground control woke up three members of the ISS crew in the middle of the night as it found the leak intensity to have grown rapidly. They asked the crew instantly to do a search.

In case you remember, last month, everyone on the ISS was asked to stay inside the leaking Russian module while ground control was conducting analysis to find the source of the leak, which eventually turned out to be a failed mission. NASA then said that it could be either the Zvezda or Poisk Mini Research Module which were leaking.

The crew was asked to close down hatches between Zvezda's aft and forward sections, along with Zvezda's passageways to the Pirs Docking Compartment and the Poisk module. At the same time, they were using an ultrasonic leak detector to find the breach and collect the necessary data.

Shutterstock

NASA said, Throughout the night, pressure measurements were taken to try to isolate the source of the leak. At the completion of the overnight checks, the crew opened hatches once again between the US and Russian segments and resumed regular activities. By Tuesday morning the crew had confirmed the leak was in the main work area of the Zvezda module.



NASA added that they still need to do some additional work to locate the exact leak spot. Luckily the leak hadnt increased in size, however, the ground control felt its intensity to be greater due to a temporary change in temperature.



NASA

The Zvezda module is a key part of the Russian segment of the ISS as it is responsible to provide oxygen as well as drinking water. It also consists of CO2 scrubbers as well as sleeping and dining areas for Russian astronauts.
BMC tries to track missing children, finds ways to continue education for students lacking digital access

Mumbai: The COVID-19 pandemic and resultant problems like mass migration, job losses and even lack of digital access clearly seem to have impacted the education of poor students of Mumbai, who are dependent on the municipal schools. The BMC schools have seen a six percent drop in enrolments this year with only 2,48,277, as compared to the 2,63,180 enrollments last year  a difference of 14,903 students.

Around four percent of students  ie 19,736 students  have left the education system in Mumbai this academic year; the BMC has registered only 6,00,811 enrolments this year as compared to the 6,20,547 enrolments in the last academic year in primary municipal, private-aided and primary unaided schools in Mumbai.

The BMC's education officer Mahesh Palkar said that while the number of students in the primary and secondary section had reduced, the number of students enrolled in Classes 9 and 10 had actually increased from 33,472 students enrolled last year to 34,538 this year.

The BMC schools had started with online education from 15 June. The municipal corporation's own survey had revealed that around 40 percent of students do not have access to Android devices to access online education. While 64,290 students do not have Android phones, 38,122 students lack internet access. The BMC is working hard to keep education going for those students lacking digital devices. Those without internet access are sent links on WhatsApp, which can be opened at their own convenience.

"We also call up students and clear doubts on the phone for those students who don't have smartphones. We also take classes in the evening for some students who have access to phones only in the evenings after their parents return from work," a BMC teacher stated on the condition of anonymity.

The BMC is also trying to provide hard copy worksheets for students with no digital access. The BMC has already provided students with textbooks and notebooks, and students are asked to complete them at their homes. These completed worksheets are either to be submitted to the schools directly or via local community volunteer networks. Teachers visit schools a few times in a week to assess these worksheets and assess learning outcomes.

A Pratham telephonic survey conducted in July 2020 of around 11,084 students from 52 BMC schools found that about 40 percent of students were not contactable on the phone due to reasons like being out of network area, their phones not being in service or not being recharged or just wrong numbers. Also, around 1,500 students among those contacted were unable to receive digital study content from schools due to issues like non-availability of smartphones or no access to phones as parents would carry them to work, or simply no data packs.

Palkar said that the BMC was trying to track and reach out to 17,933 BMC students, who were completely out of touch and were trying to track them with the help of non-governmental organisations.

"There is a probability of many students, especially girls, having dropped out due to concerns over COVID-19 or the economic slowdown. There is a genuine concern of children being pushed into child labour or early marriages. We are working to track those students with the help of neighbourhood and community volunteers," said Farida Lambay, co-founder of Pratham, which has been working closely with the BMC on various educational issues.

NGOs like Project Mumbai are now working with BMC in an effort to provide internet access to needy students through crowd-funding options. Founder and CEO, Shishir Joshi is in talks with mobile service providers to work out on a concessional data pack that could be sponsored for students for the rest six months of academic term left till March for needy students as identified by BMC. He acknowledges that an equally pressing need is to providing Android devices to those who do not have any devices at all.

That would require more funds and Joshi and his team "are trying to bridge the gap wherever feasible". He found that sourcing second-hand devices for students was not an ideal solution as most devices tend to be donated only after being used up past their optimum capacity and thus could fail to serve the students well. The likelihood of a second-hand phone developing faults is high and repairing them would be an additional burden, he felt.

The BMC teachers have also been asked to visit students at their homes to identify challenges in accessing online education and even to coordinate with local social activists to resolve network and device problems.

Teachers are being asked to contact students, untraceable or unreachable on phones with the help of Palak Mitra (parents or neighbourhood elders of students), Balak Mitra (siblings of friends of students), Teacher Mitra (with teachers in the locality) or even NGO Mitra (local grassroot organisations).

"How can teachers be asked to visit students at their homes in these times when the number of COVID-19 cases is on the rise in Mumbai and there is apprehension among people about entertaining visitors? Most teachers complain that students are hardly able to grasp their lessons while attending classes amidst their household disturbances. Barely 10 percent of our poor students have digital devices or the internet. The BMC is clearly interested in only showing off their attempts to teach rather than the actual teaching process. Teachers are also asked to visit schools without due sanitisation protocols being followed in schools," claimed Govind Dhavale, general secretary of the Mahapalika Madhyamik Shikshak Shikshaketar Karmachari Sena.

Currently, around 508 representatives of various NGOs are working with the BMC in various capacities to help educate students.

For students like Saroj Chorotiya, a 13-year-old student, a data pack and an additional device will be very useful. Sarojs father works as a shoemaker and the entire family had migrated to their Rajasthan hometown soon after the pandemic spread in March. She and her two siblings in Classes 5 and 6 accessed classes in Rajasthan using their solitary phone and a 1 GB data pack.

Her father Sethuraman Chorotiya says that he leaves his phone home even when he steps out in search of work since it is always in use at home either for attending classes or doing homework by his three children. He has recharged it with around Rs 600 for over 84 days, but now doesn't know how he will manage to do so the next time around since his work at Mumbai has not yet started. Saroj says that a single gigabyte of data a day is barely sufficient for all three siblings.

Activists like Bilal Khan of the Helping Hands Charitable Welfare and Educational Trust, who was very actively involved in helping out migrants in Mumbai, said that forcing municipal students into online education by the government is not just unfair but also illegal.

"Under the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, the government is supposed to provide free education to students till the age of 14. Online education is a violation of this Act since providing online education without providing them with the resources to access them is also a form of denial of education. Just as the government provides studying paraphernalia like textbooks and other materials, they should also provide students with devices and internet connection to access their education now," added Khan.
New Delhi, Oct 1 : The indigenously-developed laser-guided anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) was again successfully test-fired on Thursday, destroying a target at a longer range, the Defence Ministry said.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO) for this successful feat.

The test was conducted from Main Battle Tank (MBT) Arjun at KK Ranges in Ahmednagar in continuation of a successful trial done on September 22.

The ATGM employs a tandem HEAT warhead to defeat Explosive Reactive Armour (ERA) protected armoured vehicles in ranges from 1.5 to 5 km.

"It has been developed with multiple-platform launch capability and is currently undergoing technical evaluation trials from the 120 mm rifled gun of MBT Arjun," the ministry said.

This missile has been developed by the DRDO's Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), Pune, in association with the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), Pune, and the Instruments Research & Development Establishment (IRDE), Dehradun.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Shortly after Sen. Kamala Harris became Joe Biden's running mate, the Democratic National Committee began receiving thousands of donations in the precise amount of $19.08, without any obvious explanation.

Soon, it became clear that the donations were a tribute to Harris, D-Calif., from fellow members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, a Black women's organization founded in 1908. As of Friday, the DNC had received 14,408 donations in that amount, for a total approaching $275,000, and they continue to arrive.

The contributions are a sign of how AKA, a close-knit network of Black women nationwide, has mobilized behind Harris. AKA cannot make official endorsements, so the work is less overt - members show up at Harris events, give money, organize get-out-the-vote efforts, network on how best to support the cause.

To some members, this is a version of the informal but powerful networks that have long supported White men: alumni groups, fraternal organizations, business associations. Harris was initiated into AKA at Howard University in Washington in 1986, and many members speak of being deeply moved by finally seeing one of their own on a major-party ticket.

"I think we all feel empowered and we all feel important," said Rep. Frederica Wilson, D-Fla., a co-founder of AKA's political activist wing. "We all feel that now someone knows our history, someone knows our story, someone hears our voices. This makes a huge difference."

Harris's highest-profile moment since joining the ticket will come Wednesday, when she will take the debate stage against Vice President Mike Pence.

With 1,026 chapters and nearly 300,000 members, AKA is no small army. And it's being reinforced by other members of the "Divine Nine" Black fraternities and sororities, with a total membership approaching 1 million, all working informally in their communities.

Rep. Brenda Lawrence, D-Mich., a member of Delta Sigma Theta, said members see themselves in Harris. "We all feel this sense of pride that we have made it," she said. "She knows her shoulders have to be wide and strong, because we are all standing on her shoulders and we are proud of her."

Harris's campaign appearances are limited by the coronavirus pandemic, but in almost all of them she is surrounded by women in pink and green, AKA's colors. On blazers and pins, signs and T-shirts - and virtually, on heart emoji and Instagram hashtags - the colors are omnipresent.

AKA members are also taking more practical action. The sorority recently put out a call to members who are lawyers, asking them to volunteer for the National Bar Association's election protection initiative. Those AKA lawyers will be on call if a voter's ballot is ruled invalid, a registration is challenged or a poll closes before someone can vote.

As of last week, 800 AKA members had volunteered, and more than 1,000 are expected to undergo the training before the Nov. 3 election.

"This time . . . you have a person of color on the ballot, and that has energized a lot of women," said Glenda Glover, AKA's international president.

Black sororities and fraternities have long played a critical role in African American life, starting in the decades in which White fraternities excluded African Americans and enabling Black women and men to form bonds and networks when other channels were closed.

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), where many of the chapters are based, have also been crucial cultural influences - including Howard, where the first AKA chapter was formed in 1908 and where Harris graduated in 1986.

Her presence on the Democratic ticket, as someone who chose both AKA and Howard, is electrifying to many HBCU alumni who watched as Harris - the daughter of an Indian mother and a Jamaican father, schooled at times in Montreal, able to float between worlds - chose to steep herself in Black history and tradition.

"The mere fact that Senator Harris, the vice-presidential candidate, saw worth in Howard University and became a lawyer - just think," Wilson said. "I'm sure with her background and her galactic ability she could have gone to Harvard or Yale or Princeton, and she chose Howard. And she chose Alpha Kappa Alpha."

Because AKA would lose its tax-exempt status if it officially backed a candidate, it is pouring much of its energy into generic get-out-the-vote efforts - though a certain candidate preference is assumed.

AKA created a 100-day plan directing every undergraduate chapter to ensure that its members cast a ballot. Many of those chapters have posted memes and pictures circulated by the national organization; others are holding rallies.

The chapter at Methodist University in Fayetteville, N.C., produced a video called "Why We Vote," posted to Instagram, showing a woman in a pink-and-green 1908 sweatshirt saying, "In years past, we've been seen as property or less than a whole person. We've been seen as incompetent or unfit to be contributing members of society. Many trailblazers have been martyrs for our right to vote. That's why voting is important to me."

AKA's graduate chapters are using Instagram and Facebook to circulate sorority literature, almost all of it pink and green, about early voting and absentee ballots.

The sorority also hopes to protect one of its own from the racist and sexist attacks being aimed her way. When reports emerged that some Biden allies were urging him not to pick Harris because she was "too ambitious," many AKA members heard echoes of comments that had long been directed at them.

Glover - who is president of Tennessee State University, an HBCU in Nashville - published an open letter saying, "Black women all across this nation should be outraged by the commentary that a qualified African-American woman is 'too ambitious' " to be Biden's running mate. "We jumped all over that one," Glover said with a laugh. "I wrote that one myself."

AKA is in many ways a political organizer's dream. Members consider their commitment lifelong, and AKA leaders maintain a tight organization with regional groups broken down into smaller geographic clusters. Each chapter has its own social media presence and active leadership, so national leaders can mobilize them quickly.

AKA was founded by nine women, including Ethel Hedgeman Lyle, a Howard University student who in the early 20th century chafed at what she called the "small circumscribed life" imposed by segregation and male dominance. Over the years, the sorority has pushed anti-lynching legislation, established a mobile health clinic in the Mississippi Delta and more.

At one point, AKA bought the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.'s home so it could be used by the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change, and it was involved in the effort to make the civil rights leader's birthday a national holiday. It has undertaken initiatives such as building schools in South Africa. On one day recently, the group mobilized its networks to raise money for HBCUs as part of a regularly scheduled "Impact Day," with a goal of bringing in $1 million.

Now the sisterhood hopes to provide an extra push for one of its own. It is being joined by the eight other Black sororities and fraternities, each with a similar sense of mission.

Wilson compared the Divine Nine to the "talented 10th" described by W.E.B. Du Bois, referring to the 1 in 10 African Americans who would become leaders of the community.

"It's amazing how to the forefront Senator Harris has brought the Divine Nine," Wilson said. "White people knew nothing of this. It was almost as if this were a secret organization." The congresswoman described being "on multiple Zooms with my Divine Nine groups," encouraging people to vote.

Individual AKA members nationwide are taking action on their own. Many local AKA leaders referred questions to Glover but suggested that they are undertaking fundraising and get-out-the-vote initiatives individually.

Within hours of Biden's announcement that Harris would join his ticket, AKA members had commissioned T-shirts and other gear to support her. Glynda Carr, founder of Higher Heights, which promotes Black women in politics, moderated a reception a few days later while wearing a pink-and-green shirt that read, "Black Women Lead."

At that reception, Carr interviewed actor Yvette Nicole Brown, another AKA member, who wore a black shirt with the words "We've Got Your Back" in green and pink. An online store called "Sisterly Designs 1908" began selling black lawn signs that say "Kamala is my sorority sister" and "Biden Harris," all in pink and green.

At a recent virtual fundraiser with members of the Howard community, Howard AKA members past and present - some who are acquaintances of Harris - offered support in a montage of pink-and-green-laden video messages. Harris watched the five-minute video with a smile on her face and a hand over her heart.

The senator regularly speaks of this network in emotional terms. "Family is my beloved Alpha Kappa Alpha, our Divine Nine, and my HBCU brothers and sisters," Harris said in her acceptance speech at the Democratic National Convention.

For many AKA members, this represents a pivotal moment to make a broader point about Black women and leadership. Glover said the sorority's members will make sure that people who are uncomfortable with Black women in power see that "this is a reality" and that Harris, a senator and former attorney general of California, is "eminently qualified."

"We have to make sure the silliness of the day can't interfere with this campaign," Glover said. "Everyone's not pleased with this moment, but that's their problem. And we can't let them make it her problem."
Sudan's government and rebels are to sign a landmark peace deal Saturday in a bid to end decades of war in which hundreds of thousands died -- a historic achievement, if it holds.

Ending Sudan's internal conflicts has been a top priority of the transition government in power since last year's ouster of longtime dictator Omar al-Bashir amid a popular pro-democracy uprising.

Both sides are due to sign the deal in full on Saturday in Juba, the capital of neighbouring South Sudan, after putting their initials to the agreement at the end of last month.

The location of the ceremony holds great significance -- South Sudan's leaders themselves battled Khartoum as rebels for decades, before establishing the world's newest nation state.

"This is a historic day. We hope that the signing will end the fighting forever and pave the way for development," Suleiman al-Dabailo, chairman of Sudan's Peace Commission, told AFP.

The Sudan Revolutionary Front (SRF), an alliance of rebel groups from the Darfur, Blue Nile and Southern Kordofan regions, too voiced hope for a lasting peace.

Sudan's Lieutenant General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo holds up a pen before initialing the peace deal with rebel groups in Juba, South Sudan, on August 31. By Akuot Chol (AFP)

"This day marks the success of our revolution and our fight against the old regime," SRF spokesman Oussama Said told AFP.

"The agreement tackles the roots of the crisis and paves the way for democracy," he said, stressing that it is in line with the goals of the popular revolution, "freedom, peace and justice".

Decades of war

A man displaced from Darfur by conflict, pictured in June at the al-Serif camp, west of Nyala, the capital of Sudan's South Darfur province. By - (AFP/File)

Sudan has been torn by multiple conflicts between the Arab-dominated government that was led by Bashir for three decades and rebels drawn from non-Arab ethnic groups in its far-flung regions.

In Sudan's vast rural areas, settled ethnic minority farmers have frequently competed for scarce resources with Arab herders, who have often been backed by Khartoum.

Tensions have been heightened by economic hardship, especially after the 2011 secession of South Sudan which deprived the north of three-quarters of its oil reserves.

Multiple civil wars have raged since independence in 1956, including the 1983-2005 war that led to the secession of the south.

The devastating war in Darfur from 2003 left at least 300,000 people dead and 2.5 million displaced in its early years, according to the UN.

Under the peace deal, SRF fighters are to be slowly incorporated into joint units with government security forces.

There are however holdout rebel groups who have refused to sign up to the deal.

Sudan's transitional government under Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok has made ending civil conflicts a top priority. By ASHRAF SHAZLY (AFP/File)

One of them, the Darfur-based Sudan Liberation Movement (SLM) faction led by Abdelwahid Nour, launched an attack on Monday, the army said.

Another, the South Kordofan-based wing of the Sudan People's Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) led by Abdelaziz al-Hilu, has signed a separate ceasefire.

It allows rebels to keep their guns for "self-protection" until Sudan's constitution is changed to guarantee the separation of state and religion.

South Kordofan and to a lesser extent Blue Nile state have significant Christian populations who have fought for decades to end the imposition of Islamic law by Khartoum.

Pitfalls ahead

Sudan's ousted president Omar al-Bashir is on trial over the 1989 coup that brought him to power. By ASHRAF SHAZLY (AFP/File)

Dabailo said the government hopes the holdout groups will come on board "because the document addresses the problems realistically and, if implemented to the letter, will lead to peace".

The agreement covers a number of tricky issues, from land ownership, reparations and compensation to wealth and power sharing and the return of refugees and internally displaced people.

But the path ahead is fraught with pitfalls, warned Osman Mirghani, editor-in-chief of the Sudanese daily Al Tayyar, who asked "what happens to the non-signatories?"

Sudan researcher Jean-Baptiste Gallopin, a visiting fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations, warned that "the agreement is going to be very expensive" for the poverty-stricken country.

"Without outside help, the government will not be able to finance it because the economy is collapsing," he said.

"The financial priority is likely to be the integration of thousands of combatants in return for their demobilisation, and compensation for the victims of the conflicts.

"There is a risk that many of the provisions will remain non-starters. But that is not what is at stake. What is at stake is a reorganisation of the national balance of power between the regions."

Sudan has been torn by multiple conflicts between the Arab-dominated government that was led by Bashir for three decades and rebels drawn from non-Arab ethnic groups in its far-flung regions. By ASHRAF SHAZLY (AFP)

In Khartoum, the finance ministry said it is developing a plan to implement the agreement because the region's young people "need to work" and millions of displaced need "help to return home".

"People who have suffered from the war have the right to benefit from peace through development," said a ministry official.
More than 2700 Australians stranded overseas have now been caught up in a privacy breach after the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade mistakenly disclosed their personal email addresses.

Labor has labelled the disclosure of the private email addresses "unacceptable error", warning it places the group of vulnerable citizens at further risk.

DFAT accidentally included the email addresses of hundreds of Australians stranded overseas in the email. Credit:Jason South

DFAT has confirmed the email addresses of 2,727 people stuck overseas were accidentally revealed to one another.

In the email, the addressees were mistakenly listed in the "to" field, rather than "bcc", therefore making the addresses visible to other recipients.
ISTANBUL  Speaking at a weekly press briefing Wednesday, Turkish Health Minister Fahrettin Koca acknowledged that data published by the state is only a partial record of confirmed COVID-19 cases, sparking a backlash from citizens and medical groups who have criticized the governments lack of transparency throughout the pandemic.

Koca said reported cases were limited to patients with symptoms being cared for in hospitals or elsewhere, and excluded asymptomatic individuals who tested positive for the virus.

Not all cases are patients because there are those who show no symptoms at all even though their tests come back positive. Koca said Wednesday. These make up the vast majority [of cases].

The statements come after Murat Emir, a lawmaker with Turkeys main opposition Republican People's Party, said he obtained data Wednesday showing the number of new infections were nearly 20 times those reported by the Health Ministry on a single day last month. Sharing a document alleged to be from the ministrys Laboratory Information Management System, Emir said 29,377 new COVID-19 cases had been confirmed on Sept. 10, but government data showed just 1,512 cases were reported that day.

"If this document is correct, now it's time to disclose the truth to our people, Emir said while addressing Koca.

Emir told Bloomberg News, the document included test data from 270 centers in Turkey and showed that Istanbul alone had logged more than 3,000 new cases on Sept. 10, double the publicly reported figure for the country.

In late July, the Health Ministry changed the language used for reporting daily COVID-19 infections on its website, replacing number of cases with number of patients. Some medical professionals said the change is part of the reason behind the suspected underreporting of virus cases, which seemed at odds with figures tallied by doctors in major cities.

From the beginning, we said these numbers were not correct and today we understand this was the case all along, Dr. Vedat Bulut, a member of the executive committee for the Turkish Medical Association (TTB), told Al-Monitor. From now on, all Health Ministry numbers should be multiplied by 20 to get an accurate count.

Dr. Sinan Adiyaman, who recently stepped down as TTB chair, called on Koca to resign following his statements Wednesday and the hashtag #vaksayisikac or "What is the number of cases?" trended on Twitter in Turkey Thursday.

In response to the criticism, Koca questioned the authenticity of the document presented by Emir: The document bears no date on it and our system does not have such an interface, Koca said. According to the document, on this particular day, 152,000 tests were carried out, but in fact 112,000 tests were conducted.

Koca also tweeted on Thursday, Our state protects our citizens health as well as our national interests, leading some observers to speculate whether COVID-19 numbers had been suppressed to safeguard the Turkish economy, including the tourism sector.

Throughout the summer, Turkey remained one of few countries tourists could visit without quarantine requirements. According to state data, 9.3 million tourists visited Turkey from January through August, including US citizens, who face travel restrictions in all but a handful of countries.

Medical experts expect COVID-19 infections to rise again through the fall, with some expressing concerns the pandemic coupled with influenza season may strain Turkish health facilities. Bulut said more than 100 Turkish health workers have died since the first case was recorded in March and nearly 40,000 health workers have tested positive, driving many to leave their positions at public hospitals over the risk as well as burnout and a lack of resources.

In six months, 900 doctors have resigned from their jobs [at public hospitals] and went to the private health sector, Bulut told Al-Monitor. They are angry with the situation, exhausted and worried about their safety.

In September, the TTB campaigned to raise awareness for medical worker burnout, leading Devlet Bahceli, chair of the Nationalist Movement Party, to call on state authorities to shut down the association.

Meanwhile, Turkish pharmaceutical companies announced Sunday they will soon commence human trials for domestically produced coronavirus vaccines.

To date, the nations Health Ministry has reported about 319,000 COVID-19 cases and roughly 8,200 virus-linked deaths.
A Proud Boys member pulls away another who was assaulting a freelance journalist in Portland, Oregon, last week. (Getty Images)

Senate Republicans have distanced themselves from Donald Trumps refusal at the first presidential debate on Tuesday to outright condemn a far-right white supremacist group, saying that while they believe the president misspoke, he should have been unequivocal in his denunciation.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell directed reporters on Wednesday to comments from Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina, the lone black Republican in the chamber.

I think he said it exactly correctly, and that's exactly how I would express myself on that issue, Mr McConnell said.

He said it was unacceptable not to condemn white supremacists, and so I do so in the strongest possible way, the majority leader said.

Earlier in the day, Mr Scott appeared to give Mr Trump some benefit of the doubt for telling the Proud Boys, an all-male gang known for violence at public rallies and a misogynistic, racist philosophy, to stand back and stand by, which several members of the group took to be a ringing endorsement of their recent actions confronting left-wing activists at racial justice demonstrations.

A right-wing group that sprung up after Mr Trump was elected, The Proud Boys have evolved from pseudo-intellectual hipster origins into a more thuggish, openly extremist group that calls for violence increasingly openly.

I think he misspoke, Mr Scott told reporters of Mr Trumps choice of words when asked about the group.

I think he should correct it. If he doesn't correct it, I guess he didn't misspeak, he said.

But he also stressed that white supremacy should be denounced at every turn.

Other Republicans on Capitol Hill expressed similar dismay at the presidents decision not to seize the opportunity to categorically denounce white supremacists.

North Dakota Senator John Thune, Mr McConnells top deputy in the chamber, said Mr Trump ought to clear it up, referring to the Proud Boys comments.

He should unequivocally condemn white supremacy, Louisiana Republican Senator Bill Cassidy said.

Story continues

Mr Trump on Wednesday clarified that he did not know anything about the group.

I dont know who Proud Boys are, but whoever they are, they have to stand down, let law enforcement do their work, the president said.

But his aides both in the White House and on his re-election campaign declined to add to or contextualise the presidents remarks from the debate.

Senior campaign adviser Jason Miller told USA Today that Mr Trumps phrase from Tuesdays debate, Stand back and stand by, constituted a message to knock it off.

White House communications director Alyssa Farah declined the opportunity to clarify the presidents remarks in an interview with Fox News on Wednesday.

I dont think that theres anything to clarify. He's told them to stand back, she said.

Democrats have skewered the president for not more forcefully denouncing white supremacists or the Proud Boys.

Donald Trump is a white supremacist, New York Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez tweeted on Wednesday.

People have been warning about this for a long time. They were ridiculed, called hyperbolic [and] radical  not [because] they were wrong, but [because] others couldn't accept that our country elected a supremacist as President. This is fascism at our door, she wrote.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said white supremacists were the only Americans celebrating the debate last night, which has been widely ridiculed as the most disgraceful in US history due to constant interruptions from the president and his unwillingness to defer to the moderator, Fox News Chris Wallace.

President Obama once wondered, rhetorically: How hard is it to say that Nazis are bad? Mr Schumer said on the Senate floor on Wednesday.

Apparently, for President Trump, it is beyond his capacity. In a national debate, he not only refused to condemn a far-right group of violent, white supremacists, he told them to stand by, the minority leader said.

He continued: I just want to ask my Republican colleagues: How are you not embarrassed that President Trump represents your party? How can you possibly, possibly, support anyone who behaves this way? Are you watching the same person that we are? Are you listening?

Read more

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Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Chief Mayawati attacked the incumbent Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath over the incidents of gang rape, murder in Hathras and Balrampur districts which shook the nation.

The incidents from Hathras and Balrampur have shocked me to the core. There is no rule of law in the state at the moment instead criminals, mafias and rapists are ruling the state. The law and order of the state has collapsed completely, the females in the state under the current regime are not safe at all, Mayawati said in Lucknow on Thursday.

BSP chief also called for the Centres intervention and demanded to change the Chief Minister. The Centre should consider imposing president rule in the state. Yogi was made CM under the pressure from RSS, BJP should take up the matter with RSS. Its better if Yogi Adityanath goes back to the mutt or else should monitor construction work of Ram Temple, Mayawati added.

The former CM of the state Mayawati also launched a direct attack on Yogi Adityanath and said, Yogi Adityanath has also been born from the stomach of a woman, he should respect women. Today, crime is all around in UP. He should resign himself.
Religious hospital policies that restrict reproductive health care are poorly understood by patients, according to new bioethics research from UChicago Medicine.

Religious hospital policies that restrict reproductive health care are poorly understood by patients, according to a new study published Sept. 17 in AJOB Empirical Bioethics.

Researchers from the University of Chicago and the University of California, San Francisco found that women value clear information shared early from their health care providers to help them anticipate religious restrictions before their care becomes urgent.

Jocelyn Wascher, MD, an obstetrician-gynecologist resident at the University of Chicago Medicine, Debra Stulberg, MD, Chair of UChicago's Department of Family Medicine, and UCSF medical sociologist Lori Freedman, PhD, interviewed 33 reproductive-age women from a national survey sample who had sought care from a Catholic hospital. Most women identified as Christian or Catholic, and were diverse geographically, in age, and in racial and ethnic identity. The women expressed respect for the religious beliefs of the doctors and hospital administrators, but struggled to balance this with valuing personal autonomy and decision-making.

One woman interviewed by researchers needed a Cesarean-section delivery and wanted to have her tubes tied at the same time. However, she was told on the day of her C-section that the hospital did not perform tubal ligations due to its religious beliefs. She told researchers, "When you go to a hospital, you want them to do what you want them to do. You should be in charge of your own medical care and not their beliefs."

Other women in the study shared that sentiment, adding that patients should research hospital policies and affiliations before choosing where to receive care. However, they also wanted the hospital to make more effort to inform them.

The woman who was denied tubal ligations during her C-section said she was upset that the hospital didn't tell her about their rules beforehand. "I also feel that they could've told me sooner than the day of my C-section," the woman said.

Another interviewee told researchers that religious restrictions on care "need to be plastered in 50-foot neon letters at the front door of the building," rather than something a woman learns in real time if she happens to have a helpful physician.

The study's authors highlighted that the American Medical Association advises physicians who hold moral objections to specific services should disclose any objections prior to establishing a patient-physician relationship. They also recommend informing patients of all available treatment options, and referring them to other providers if necessary. The authors recommend that health care institutions be held to the same ethical standards.

"I've cared for numerous patients who were denied desired reproductive health care because of the religion of the hospital they happened to show up at," said Stulberg, who completed her residency at a hospital that transitioned from secular to Catholic during her time there.

Stulberg saw patients quickly lose access to contraception and pregnancy-related care. It spurred her interest in the topic and led her to pursue ethics training through UChicago's MacLean Center for Clinical Medical Ethics before joining the University's faculty. Today it's her primary research focus.

Wascher, the paper's first author, chose to be an OB-GYN in order to provide comprehensive care around pregnancy and reproductive health. "It's hard to imagine sitting with a patient who wants and would medically benefit from my care, and then having to tell her, 'I'm sorry, we can't do that here.' It would break my heart," she said.

###

The study, titled "Restrictions on Reproductive Care at Catholic Hospitals: A Qualitative Study of Patient Experiences and Perspectives," was supported by the Society of Family Planning Research Fund.
Until yesterday, shares of CTI BioPharma (CTIC) had been firmly planted in the red in 2020. But sentiment can turn fast in the biotech world and the cancer drug maker provided investors with a dreamy week. The stock surged 135% over the past two trading sessions, after the FDA cleared the way for one of its treatments quick approval.

Specifically, the company announced that after a pre-NDA meeting with the FDA, the agency has granted the biotech a rolling NDA submission for possible accelerated approval of pacritinib in thrombocytopenic myelofibrosis patients. The NDA submission should be completed by 1Q21.

CTI managed to persuade the regulators that based on the existing data, the risk mitigation measures have shifted the risk/benefit profile enough to allow for a review. Results from the Phase III PERSIST-1 and 2 and the dose-finding PAC203 study have been deemed strong enough for NDA submission.

Needham analyst Chad Messer believes the surprising development highlights the lack of therapeutic options in this group of patients. The analyst expects pacritinib to make its market entrance a lot earlier than initially expected.

If pacritinib is accepted for priority review, which we believe likely, it will be subject to a ~6 month review period, the analyst said. As a reminder, in July 2018 following the 1st interim analysis of PAC203, CTI had a Type B meeting with the FDA, in which the FDA indicated an additional Phase III trial would be necessary for filing. This recent development accelerates timelines for pacritinib which may now be on the market late 2021.

CTI saw out the second quarter with approximately $70 million in cash, which should be enough to fund operations into 4Q21 and pass the potential approval, according to Messer.

As a result, the Needham analyst reiterates a Buy rating on CTIC shares, while boosting the price target from $3.5 to $6. Investors could be pocketing gains of nearly 140%, should the target be met over the next 12 months. (To watch Messers track record, click here)

Story continues

Overall, there is little action on the Street heading CTIC's way right now, with only one other analyst chiming in with a bullish view on the company's prospects. An additional Buy rating means the stock qualifies as a Moderate Buy. The average price target, though, is $5, and implies nearly 100% upside potential. (See CTIC stock analysis on TipRanks)

To find good ideas for healthcare stocks trading at attractive valuations, visit TipRanks Best Stocks to Buy, a newly launched tool that unites all of TipRanks equity insights.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the featured analyst. The content is intended to be used for informational purposes only. It is very important to do your own analysis before making any investment.
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Linkedin Liz Lee (Reuters) Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia  Thu, October 1, 2020 16:21 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c487da1d 2 SE Asia Malaysia,politics,political-crisis,investment Free

With its leadership tossed into uncertainty again, Malaysia risks delays and loss of new investments, analysts and business groups say, as anxiety bubbles among foreign investors worried about policy disruption and reforms stalling.

A week after opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim laid claim to the premiership citing enough parliamentary support to form a new government, the political situation is fluid and the power to decide what happens next rests with a king who is currently hospitalized.

Fitch Solutions said the upheaval since March was risky for Malaysia's long-term growth at a time when its neighbors compete for investments from firms diversifying manufacturing away from China.

"Malaysia could find it difficult to pitch its attractiveness to investors given the existence of lower-cost centers such as Vietnam and Indonesia on the one hand, and more stable politics in countries such as Singapore," its Senior Asia Country Risk Analyst Darren Tay told Reuters.

The power struggles that have ensued since the end of decades of unbroken rule by one party in 2018 could sap confidence among multinationals beset by coronavirus-related problems, said the American Malaysian Chamber of Commerce.

"Political instability ranks high on corporations' considerations because it would have a ripple effect on policies," said its CEO Siobhan Das said.

Muhyiddin Yassin unexpectedly emerged as prime minister in March after forging an alliance with opposition parties to gain a parliamentary majority.

He was accused of stealing power by shifting alliances instead of earning an electoral mandate and has rejected Anwar's claim of legislative backing.

Japanese firms long present in Malaysia are watching closely, and decision makers back home are worried it could complicate future plans, said Daiji Kojima, vice-president of the Japanese Chamber of Trade and Industry.

Bank Islam economist Adam Mohamed Rahim said equities investors were anxious about the possibility of a new election, while Jeffrey Halley, senior market analyst at OANDA, said a change in government could pose problems for new investments.

"Malaysia may struggle to attract foreign inflows when the country's governance is in such a state of constant flux," he said.

A smooth power transition, however, could see Malaysia's appeal restored in about six months, Halley said.
NEW HANOVER  A former township police officer who ran unsuccessfully for district judge is suing the township, the township manager, the police chief and his opponent charging them with damaging his reputation, costing him the election and seeking lost wages and damages.

Dennis Psota, who served as a New Hanover police officer for 23 years, failed to unseat District Judge Maurice Saylor in the 2019 elections.

One reason he failed, according to his lawsuit, was his ongoing conflict with Police Chief Kevin McKeon.

The lawsuit accuses McKeon of submitting Psotas name for a list of dishonest police officers despite it being unfounded and subsequently negated by the district attorney  and Saylors campaign of using that list to undermine Psotas campaign for district judge.

The lawsuit also alleges Psota suffered damages under the whistleblower law for joining former officer Keith Youse in publicly speaking out last year against McKeon and Sgt. William Moyer. Both accused the chief and sergeant of making racist comments and vindictive behavior.

In June, the township released the results of an 11-month, $31,000 investigation of the allegations made by Youse and Psota that found no evidence to confirm any of the claims.

According to the lawsuit, things began to go bad for Psota after he informed Township Manager Jamie Gwynn in July 2017 that Moyer had submitted a time card for a block of time during which he allegedly took care of personal business and did no work for the township.

From that point forward, Psota endured a pattern of harassment from McKeon, including the chief telling other officers that Psota was a rat who could not be trusted, according to the lawsuit.

A month after alerting Gwynn to the time card matter, McKeon filed a complaint against Psotas wife, who worked in a local bank at the time, for not saying hi to him, according to the suit.

The next month, McKeon filed a complaint against Psota because he had allowed a horse trailer pulled over for a traffic violation to leave the scene, according to the lawsuit.

Psota described that incident to MediaNews Group last year and said it was very hot that day and he only allowed the horse trailer to drive a short distance to the police station so the horses could be watered.

In October 2017, when Psota complained to a township supervisor about McKeons behavior, McKeon filed a disciplinary complaint against Psota, according to the suit.

And in March of 2018, according to Psotas suit, McKeon fabricated a story to the township manager that Psota wanted all orders in writing, which was not true.

The retaliation culminated in an incident on Nov. 20, 2018, in which Chief McKeon allegedly claimed officer Psota lied to him about his attendance at a speed trap at the township recreation center off Hoffmansville Road.

Psota was ordered to meet another officer at the site, but when he arrived, the officer was not there. Psota subsequently determined that was because the other officer was offsite at another traffic stop, as evidenced by the ticket he issued at the stop, according to the lawsuit.

Video footage at the recreation center, which Psota has requested but the township will not release, would show Psota was at the recreation center as assigned. While Psota awaited the other officers return, Psota responded to a bank alarm in neighboring Douglass (Mont.) Township, the lawsuit says.

McKeon said Psota had never reported for duty and Psota asked for a meeting with a union representative, according to the suit. McKeon later said the information Psota provided at that hearing was false.

McKeon ultimately charged Psota with several offenses including neglect of duty, leaving duty post, insubordination and untruthfulness.

As the township moved to fire Psota in December 2018, Psota decided to retire because he knew he wasnt going to get a fair and unbiased hearing, the lawsuit said.

Despite no adjudication on the matter, the lawsuit asserts McKeon and the township subsequently submitted Psotas name to be included on a Brady list, as a law enforcement official not deemed to be a trustworthy witness, according to the suit.

Psota believes this action, although unwarranted in his eyes, was done intentionally, willfully, wantonly, maliciously with the intent to harm Psota, the lawsuit asserts.

At the time, Psota was a candidate for the district judge seat in Gilbertsville and the lawsuit asserts the Brady list referral was intentionally done to intentionally prejudice his electoral chances to win the seat.

On April 5, 2019, the township received a letter from the Montgomery County District Attorneys Office dismissing all of the remaining summary cases in which (Psota) was involved before his retirement, the lawsuit asserts.

An attack mailer used during the May 2019 primary election by Friends of Maurice Saylor cited the letter, even though Psota was not provided a copy from the district attorneys office until October, according to the lawsuit.

In August 2019 the Montgomery County Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No. 14 issued a letter indicating the sole driving force for (Officer Psotas) placement on the Brady list was his current political campaign for judge, the lawsuit asserts.

It was not until Oct. 18 that Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele wrote a letter indicating that the April 5 letter to McKeon was not a negative determination concerning Officer Psotas credibility and further stated that the Commonwealth has not taken any position regarding officer Psotas credibility or his conduct in this matter, according to the suit.

Nevertheless, the same attack mailer used in the primary election was used again in the November 2019 general election, again citing allegations of dishonesty on the part of Officer Psota, according to the suit.

On Election Day 2019, Psota showed Steeles Oct. 18 letter to Saylor and told him it contradicted Saylors handout. However, Saylor continued to distribute the literature, the lawsuit says.

The suit also says Psota has lost at least one job opportunity at another police department because of the Brady list incident.

The lawsuit seeks lost wages and damages for losing the election and Psotas pain, suffering and humiliation.

Specific amounts for damages are not indicated in the legal papers.

Asked for comment on the suit, Township Solicitor Andrew Bellwoar released the following statement: The township received the complaint and has since turned it over to its insurance provider for legal defense. The complaint appears to be a collection of the same complaints the plaintiff raised previously, which were thoroughly reviewed and investigated in accordance with internal policies and procedures during the plaintiffs employment. The township disagrees with the allegations and encourages readers to allow due process be given in court before making a complete judgment on the situation.
Copyright  2020 Albuquerque Journal

The shooting case against an Albuquerque man has been dropped after the victim refused to testify during a preliminary hearing, according to court records.

In May, Kyle Englert, 20, was charged with aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in the April 29 shooting of Casey Stahl, 18.

However, 2nd Judicial District Attorneys Office spokeswoman Brandale Mills-Cox said prosecutors dismissed the case July 31 because the victim wouldnt testify.

As of now, there are no plans to refile, Mills-Cox said.

Englert was initially accused of shooting his then-roommate Stahl in the leg at a Tijeras home they shared. At first, Stahl told deputies he didnt know who shot him before naming Englert.

The case caught the medias attention after Bernalillo County Sheriff Manuel Gonzales III publicized Englerts cross-country arrest and extradition by U.S. Marshals in Florida.

You can run, but you cannot hide from BCSO and our expansive federal law enforcement partners, even on the other side of the country, Gonzales said in a news release at the time.

Stahl has since been charged with an open count of murder in the April 9 killing of 20-year-old Alejandro Flores-Estrada.

Police say Stahl severely beat Flores-Estrada over a $20 debt in a Northeast Albuquerque parking lot. Flores-Estrada was hospitalized and died from his injuries.
Woods that inspired Beatrix Potter could be lost due to a surge in a disease affecting the ash tree.

The National Trust says the sheer number of trees having to be felled because of ash dieback has left the charity facing its worst year on record.

Prolonged hot and dry conditions driven by climate change are putting the species under stress and making them more susceptible to the 'alien' disease.

It is caused by a fungus which originated from Asia and was first recorded in the UK in 2012.

A veteran ash tree in pasture at Glenamara Park, Patterdale. Trees and woods which inspired the likes of Beatrix Potter and John Constable could be lost to a disease affecting ash, the National Trust has warned

Lockdown meant there were fewer teams of rangers checking up on the trees, so staff are now struggling with a backlog of problems. The conservation charity has been felling about 4,000-5,000 ash trees a year in recent times.

However, this year it faces having to cut down around 40,000 ash trees at a cost of 2million.

This means 'vital' conservation work, including planting new trees, managing flower-rich meadows and maintenance activities are being put on hold. The ash dieback fungus blocks the tree's water systems, causes leaves to wilt, shoots to die, lesions on branches and eventually it will die.

It is set to kill between 75-95 per cent of the UK's ash trees in the next 20 years and is expected to wipe out about 2.5million trees on National Trust land alone.

Beautiful British landscapes under threat include the Cotswolds, where more than 7,000 trees will have to be felled in the coming year. Woodlands around the home of 18th century painter John Constable in Flatford, Suffolk, are also under threat, while dozens of trees will have to be felled this year in Borrowdale in the Lake District where he regularly visited.

Prolonged hot and dry conditions driven by climate change are putting the species under stress and making them more susceptible to the 'alien' disease

Elsewhere in the Lake District, sites that inspired the work of children's author Beatrix Potter, including Troutbeck Park Farm, near Ambleside, and High Oxen Fell, near Coniston, are also at risk from ash dieback disease.

The National Trust is warning that other woodlands, including the ravine woods of the White Peak in Derbyshire, which are 80 per cent ash, and in the Yorkshire Dales, will change beyond recognition because of the disease.

Luke Barley, the charity's tree and woodland adviser, said: 'Ash dieback is a catastrophe for nature... and this year's combination of a dry spring and late frost may have dramatically sped up the spread and severity.

'Ash trees like those at Beatrix Potter's Troutbeck Park Farm are some of our most culturally significant trees and have stood for hundreds of years but will now be lost for ever.

'There are also implications for climate change as less carbon is sequestered, homes for wildlife are being removed and people's access to nature is being diminished.'
DETROIT, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Teamsters Joint Council 43 announced its support for Jon Hoadley for Congress in Michigan's 6th Congressional District.

As a member in good standing of the National Writers Guild, and UAW Local 1981, Jon Hoadley has served working families in Michigan with passion and dedication in the State Legislature since 2015.

As a state representative, Jon has supported efforts to increase funding to the skilled trades and been a strong advocate for the hiring of union labor to local companies looking for state support on projects. In Congress, Jon would support the Protecting the Right to Organize Act (H.R. 2474) to strengthen worker's freedom to organize and negotiate for higher wages, stronger retirement security and better health insurance.

"During his time in the Michigan Legislature, Jon has been a friend and an ally of Michigan's workers," said Greg Nowak, President of Teamsters Joint Council 43. "Congress needs new leaders like Jon Hoadley, and we know he'll be a powerful voice for workers in the Senate."

"In the Michigan Legislature and in communities across Michigan Jon Hoadley has fought for working families," said Teamsters General President James P. Hoffa. "Jon has been a champion for workers at home and he will take that same dedication to Congress."

Representative Hoadley faces Congressman Fred Upton in the November 3rd General Election. In the 116th Congress, Upton voted to weaken Teamster pensions, voted against the freedom to form a union and negotiate, and voted for so-called right-to-work legislation that creates lower wages and more dangerous workplaces.

Contact:

Bill Black, (248) 227-3202

SOURCE Teamsters Joint Council 43
As a disillusioned Republican, I have written Letters to the Editors before that were never published. I have now been told that Letters to the Editors should be limited to 350 words.

With this in mind, let me cover last week alone. Donald Trump announces to the electorate that on Nov. 3, 2020, they need to go down and vote a second time. This is called election fraud and is a felony criminal offense.

Referring to a trip to Bella Wood, Trump said that the American troops that lost their lives in that battle were losers and suckers. In my opinion, Bella Wood is sacred ground. Anybody that avoided their military obligation with a never documented bone spur is dishonorable slime.

Donald Trumps campaign manager met with Russian Intelligence and they were given internal polling. If this does not meet the definition of treason, then I do not know what would.

Donald Trump previously indicated that he was going to nominate Ted Cruz for the recent vacancy on the United States Supreme Court. Months ago, Trump accused Senator Ted Cruzs father of being involved in the Kennedy assassination. The Republican Party makes no comment. I have concluded the Republican Party (in particular the Tennessee Delegation of Lamar Alexander, Marsha Blackburn, Chuck Fleischmann and Scott Desjarlais) has no shame.

So when my old friends come up and ask me what has happened to the Republican Party, the only response I have is that Trump is dismantling the Republican Party, and it is being damaged far more than at Watergate and will take longer to repair.

Graham Swafford

South Pittsburg

* * *

Mr. Swafford, I wont comment about locals you say expressed concern over the Republican Party, but I will give a reason why the party is changing.

Many of the these Republicans now endorsing Joe Biden were governors, members of Congress or at some level of party leadership. These RINOS are registered lobbyists or board members of corporations doing big business with Chinese corporations because they are among the biggest players right now. The latest of these is Marc Racicot who is hardly a household name. He is the former governor of Montana and former chairman of the RNC. He is now a lobbyist.

You ask whats happening to the Republican Party? These people who once identified as Republicans have left apparently to endorse Joe Biden. The question you should ask is why do a group of inside the beltway, high roller lobbyists and former generals choose Joe Biden over Donald Trump?

Before the virus from China, Trump was in a standoff with China over the disparity of trade which gave China a great advantage over American businesses and workers. Its no coincidence these RINOS dont want to see Trump empowered with a win over Joe Biden. After all its Joe Biden who has stated China is no threat to America.

Thats why the Republican Party has changed.

Ralph Miller

* * *

Let me respond in sequence of the original letter.

1. It is not election fraud to request to do a provisional ballot. When you mail (in other states allow other methods of collection) your ballot, improvements starting with this election allows for verification of your request, the mailing (to you) of your ballot and the receipt of the returned ballot. But what you never can know is if the ballot is verified and accepted to be counted. Response was that signature, witness and any other checks they do to verify and accept the ballot is not done until opening of the polls on election day. I have not found anywhere the statistics on rejected ballots locally, but with 20 percent plus rejection rates documented in several locations I may decide not to take the chance of my vote being rejected and go to the polls to ask for a provisional ballot if I want to make sure my vote counts. That is what Trump said, but not that detailed, because he knows to the haters, nothing he says will be accepted.

2. You obviously never served in the Marines. You would have never made it through my boot camp thinking that Ringling Brothers Circus performer (Bella) was a WW1 battle. It is Belleau Wood. You believe a so called journalist, who has previously been shown to falsify sources, when he says an anonymous source said Trump did not want to go and said the losers and suckers crap. But dozens of people who were actually there are on the record says it never happened. But losers and suckers believe anything.

3. The same anonymous source (or the reporter if he made up the source) said Trump did not want to go to the first cemetery (contradicted on the record by the people actually there) because he did not want to get his hair wet. But the very next day, he stool in the rain for over 1  hours at the second scheduled cemetery. But losers and suckers believe anything.

4. The bone spur was documented. That is how the deferral was made. You must not have gone or ever known anyone who went to an induction center for processing. They do not give you a deferral by you just saying I have a bone spur. For anyone around and eligible for the draft back then, there were thousands of people who tried to find ways out of being drafted. There were documented cases of boys dropping weights on their foot to try to develop flat feet for the deferral. I enlisted in the Marines to not be drafted as cannon fodder in the Army in later days of Vietnam. Bill Clinton lied to a U.S. senator to manipulate him into intervening and getting that dishonorable slime his deferral. And of course there were those who went to Canada. I dont know the validity of Trumps medical deferment, and neither do you. But hatred does not need actual information.

5. I agree: You dont know the definition of treason. Lets see if you think this is treason:

a. Conspire and pay to produce a false document as add to an insurance policy to aid in a conspiracy to sabotage the legally elected government of the United States.

b. Conspire to cause a false investigation of Russian Collusion", as in recent documents unclassified.

c. Destroy and or wipe clean government property (phones, etc.) to keep records from being obtained by investigators. Multiple times. Multiple methods. Remember the hammers used?

d. Bugging/tapping (whatever term you want to use) a presidential campaign and beyond that a serving President. Remember that the warrant obtained from the FISA court with known false documentation and statements, such as the dossier (brought by Hillary and the DNC), did not just allow Carter Page to be bugged, but also anyone he communicated with (i.e. Manafort) and any that person communicated with (i.e. Trump).

e. Illegally changing document submitted to FISA court.

These are all things the Democrat party engaged in with Hillary and corrupt Washington (the swamp) government employees, such as Comeys FBI circle of corruption (Strzok, Page, Clinesmith, Wiseman, etc.) and others Brennan, Clapper, etc. And recent evidence unclassified shows both Biden and Obama were involved. Unfortunately, these do not meet the legal definition of treason, but they should. The question is why they will never be held to account for any of the crimes. As for an internal poll being shared with anyone, it is not a government document and can be shared by whoever owns the data.

6. What was said by professional politicians has always been crap. Trump trying to fit in that slimy world and with his New York City upbringing, did not surprise me when he repeated a vague story that had been circulated for years with no one taking it serious. Trump did not accuse if you actually look at what was said, but why bother to be accurate.

Personally, I do not really care if either the Democrat or Republican parties are harmed. The two of them have cooperated to prevent any chance of another political party. While there is nothing in the Constitution for political parties and George Washington said permanent political parties will be the death of the republic, the duopoly or Democrat/Republicans have done everything they can to cause an unethical situation. Why dont Independents, Libertarians, Green Party members, etc. have any representation in Federal Election Commission, Federal Debate Commission, etc. You dont count unless you are either a Democrat or Republican. If you dont like the current environment where it is a us versus them ,each side with hatred and despising each other, you can thank the professional politicians and other swamp creatures. Trump is the result of this, not the cause.

I did not vote for Trump in 2016, but the corruption shown by the Democrats in the conspiracy to take down Trump has convinced me to support him this time, even though I would rather have someone with a different personality. But I dont vote for personality, I vote for actions. Biden has had actions in the last 47 years in the professional politician slime bath, but I just cant find many that are good (or true in his case). And his so-called plans are disaster waiting to happen for the country.

Jim Hill




A study conducted by the Institute of Environment and Sanitation Studies of the University of Ghana and the University of Lagos in selected slum cities shows that unaffordable housing pushes many urban dwellers into living in slums.



It, therefore, urged African countries to address shortages in housing and basic services for a more sustainable approach to achieving cities without slums rather than use of forced eviction.



They are also to identify and integrate the influence and utility of communal and self-help organisations to ensure significant, inclusive and participatory planning and revitalisation of slums.



This came to light during the validation of the report of the study, dubbed: Standardizing City-Level Data Gathering for Achieving SDG-11 in Africa (SCiLeD) Project Report, which was concurrently done in a zoom workshop in Accra and Lagos on Tuesday.



It was to discuss the similarities and differences of the data and help find solutions to the challenges identified.



The SCiLeD Project adopts the transdisciplinary approach in urban data governance towards inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable cities and communities as stipulated in the SDG-11.



The Report noted that ensuring availability, access, and sustainable management of the environment, water, and sanitation would improve health and well-being of settlers.



The project seeks to tackle various social, economic and environmental dimensions of development in Africa and formed part of the five-year programme of the Leading Integrated Research for Agenda 2030 in Africa (LIRA 2030).



In Ghana, the research was done at Chorkor and Old Fadama, both slum settlements in the Greater Accra Region, where the youth constituted the greater population in both communities, representing 56.8 per cent in Chorkor and 93.9 per cent at Old Fadama.



The SCiLeD Project integrates scientific and non-scientific knowledge co-design and co-production by bringing together academia, governments, businesses, civil society/NGOs, and communities in Lagos and Accra to address the complex urban data governance challenges hampering sustainable service delivery for the poorest households and vulnerable slum settlements.



Dr Adelina Mensah, Co-Principal Investigator of SCiLeD Project, IESS, said data was collected from about 2,500 households in Chorkor and Old Fadama.



She said the household interviews were to assess the well-being, risks, vulnerabilities and disaster preparedness of the two communities on the basis of their demographic and socioeconomic characteristics.



She said the study exposed disparities in urban data governance adding that it would go a long way to inform government policies on extending social infrastructure to improve the conditions of those living in such areas.



Dr Peter Alias, the Principal Investigator, SCiLeD Project, University of Lagos, corroborated the fact that there were lots of disparities in Lagos urban data and called for a refined approach to data collection to address the issues.



Both the Accra and Lagos surveys revealed that slums were functions of many factors, including migration, housing, sanitation and hygiene, he said.



He emphasised the need to protect lives and livelihoods of poor households and slum communities against shock to end poverty and reduce inequality.



Participants at the Accra workshop called on city authorities to be more vigilant to stop building on roads and water courses.



They also called on the authorities to monitor developments along the Accra-Tema Motorway and act quickly to avoid that stretch becoming another slum.

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.

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Statement by H.E. Xi Jinping President of the People's Republic of China. At the High-level Meeting on the Twenty-fifth Anniversary of The Fourth World Conference on Women

Beijing, 1 October 2020

Mr. President,

Colleagues,

On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, we gather to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women held in Beijing. The aim is to promote gender equality and womens development around the world. I am glad to address this event and I wish this high-level meeting a full success.

Women are creators of human civilization and drivers of social progress, and they have made extraordinary achievements across all fields of endeavor. In the ongoing fight against COVID-19, female medical and epidemic control workers, researchers, community workers and volunteers over the world, braving danger and working around the clock, have fought at the front line of the battle. With their dedication and ingenuity, they have written heroic epics of saving people and protecting lives. They truly deserve our admiration.

In China, at the height of the battle against COVID-19, more than 40,000 health workers from across the country rushed to Hubei province, which was the hardest hit by the virus, and two-thirds of them were women. Among them was a nurse from Guangdong province who had not yet reached the age of 20. Answering a reporters question of whether she was too young to help others, she said, The moment I put on the protective suit, I am not a kid anymore. Those words moved the whole nation. In fact, many women medical workers in China, like this girl, and in their tens of thousands, have taken on the virus bravely by putting themselves in harms way. Their courage and hard work have shown the very best of the medical profession. Their devotion and sacrifice have kept the nation intact through difficult times.

Mr. President,

Over the past 25 years, the powerful message of the Fourth World Conference on Women held in Beijing has unleashed many positive changes. The social status of women is significantly higher. Increasingly women are playing an important role of supporting half of the sky. Indeed, gender equality and womens empowerment are now important goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

On the other hand, the spread of COVID-19 worldwide has taken a heavy toll on economy, employment and peoples life, and has brought greater challenges to women. As Secretary-General Guterres said, the gains made in gender equality over the past decades are at risk of being rolled back. In both containing COVID-19 and promoting post-COVID economic and social recovery, it is particularly important that we address the special needs of women and deliver on the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. To this end, China calls for taking the following steps:

First, we need to minimize the impact of COVID-19 on women. We need to pay special attention to the health, social and psychological needs and working environment of frontline women medical workers. We also need to place the protection of womens and girls rights and interests high on the agenda of both public health and economic reopening. In particular, we need to create more job opportunities for women and crack down on violations of womens rights and interests. We need to improve social services, with priority given to special groups such as pregnant and postnatal women, and children. Special care may be given to women in difficulty such as those in poverty, old age or with disabilities. Efforts must be made to enhance benefit for women, address their concerns, and deliver results for their well-being.

Second, we need to strive for genuine gender equality. While posing unprecedented challenges, COVID-19 also presents an opportunity for us to draw lessons from it and reshape the future. Global development needs to be placed on a course that is more equal, inclusive and sustainable, and womens development is an important criterion to gauge its progress. Protection of womens rights and interests must become the commitment at the national level. As we pursue post-COVID recovery, we may create new opportunities for women to participate in decision-making and be more involved in national, economic, cultural and social governance. We need to eliminate prejudice, discrimination and violence against women and make gender equality a social norm and moral imperative observed by all.

Third, we need to ensure that women advance at the forefront of our times. In the 21st century, the aspiration for a better life will be meaningless without all-round progress in womens development; this aspiration can only be achieved when women contribute even greater vision and strength to this cause. In pursuing development, we need to protect womens rights and interests and improve their lives, and ensure that womens development goes hand in hand with economic and social development. We need to remove barriers and create an enabling environment in which women are motivated, their creativity is unleashed to the full, and they truly feel satisfied, happy and secure. We need to fully leverage the role of the government and mobilize all stakeholders to support women and help them live their lives to the full.

Fourth, we need to enhance global cooperation in advancing women's development. Without a peaceful and stable global environment and sustainable development, and without leveraging the UNs key coordinating role, the cause of womens development cannot move forward. We support the UN in making womens development a priority. Our Organization should do more, both to eliminate violence, discrimination, poverty and other old problems and to address new challenges such as bridging the gender digital divide, so as to make women-related targets early harvest results of its 2030 Agenda. We also need to support greater representation of women in the UN system. UN Women should expand its toolkit for promoting gender equality and improve the global roadmap for womens development.

Colleagues,

Equality between men and women is a basic state policy in China. We have put in place a legal system comprising over 100 laws and regulations for fully protecting womens rights and interests. As a matter of fact, China is recognized by the World Health Organization as one of the ten fast-track countries in women's and children's health. In China, the gender gap in compulsory education has been largely closed. Women account for over 40 percent of the countrys workforce, and more than half of Chinas Internet start-up businesses are set up by women.

Five years ago, I proposed a Global Leaders Meeting on Gender Equality and Womens Empowerment. Now, the host of proposals I put forward at the meeting for advancing global cooperation in this endeavor have all been implemented. And China is prepared to do even more to support the global cause of womens development. In the coming five years, China will donate another 10 million dollars to UN Women. China will continue to fund the UNESCO Prize for Girls and Womens Education to support this global effort. China also proposes the convening in 2025 of another Global Leaders Meeting on Gender Equality and Womens Empowerment.

Mr. President,

We still have a long way to go and need to work real hard to build a world in which women are free from discrimination as well as a society of inclusive development. Let us work together and redouble efforts to promote gender equality and advance the global cause of womens development.

Thank you.
Following hard on the heels of revelations that major global banks have been involved in a network of criminal money laundering, JPMorgan Chase has been fined $920 million for manipulating markets on two of its trading desks.

The charges involved the practice of spoofingquickly placing and then withdrawing buy and sell orders to give other traders and their algorithms the false impression that there is a surge of activity.

The spoofing activity covered trades in gold, silver and other metals futures markets as well as markets for Treasury bonds and cash. It covered thousands of trades and involved numerous traders and staff at JPMorgan in New York, London and Singapore.

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), which conducted the investigation, said traders knowingly placed orders on trading platforms they did not intend to fulfil in the hope this would trick others and enable the JPMorgan traders to obtain a better price.

According to the prosecutors, the traders openly bragged about their successes. One trader wrote in 2012: A little razzle-dazzle to juke the algos.

Announcing the decision in a statement, Heath Tarbert, chairman of the CFTC, said: Attempts to manipulate our markets wont be tolerated. Spoofing is illegalpure and simple. This record-setting enforcement action demonstrates the CTFCs commitment to being tough on those who intentionally break our rules, no matter who they are.

But who they are clearly matters and the strong words are not matched by the action that has been taken. While $920 million penalty was the largest so far imposed, it was, as in so many other cases, a settlement that suspends prosecution of the bank and its executives.

As part of the deal, JPMorgan will avoid a criminal indictment by entering into a three-year deferred prosecution agreement. A statement from the bank said it did not expect any disruption of service to its clients as a result of the settlement payout. In other words, despite having engaged in criminal conduct, its business as usual.

It is not the first time JPMorgan has been charged with market manipulation. In 2015, the bank pleaded guilty to charges that, together with several other global banks, it conspired to rig the price of US dollars and the euro, and agreed to pay a $550 million fine. But this was obviously considered simply a cost of doing business. No doubt the latest larger fine will be similarly regarded.

The agreement not to proceed with a prosecution came despite the fact that JPMorgan attempted to impede the investigation. The Justice Department said the bank had failed to fully and voluntarily disclose its conducts and noted its previous guilty plea to currency manipulation.

The CTFC said JPMorgan co-operation in the early stages of the investigation was not satisfactory and the agency had been misled. Such non-cooperation could only have been the result of decisions taken at the highest levels of the bank, indicating the spoofing was not the action of so-called rogue traders, and nor was it some kind of aberration.

A statement by William Sweeney, assistant director in charge of the FBIs New York field office indicated this to be the case.

For nearly a decade, a significant number of JPMorgan traders and sales personnel openly disregarded US laws that serve to protect against illegal activity in the marketplace, he said.

But no one in the upper echelons of the bank is being prosecuted and the penalty will be paid out of the banks revenue.

Instead, a deal has been reached where those involved are made scapegoats for a practice that was clearly known about and which the bank sought to cover up when an investigation was launched.

The chief executive of JPMorgans corporate and investment bank, Daniel Pinto, said: The conduct of the individuals referenced in todays resolution is unacceptable and they are no longer with the firm.

Pinto then pointed to the nature of the deal reached with the Department of Justice (DOJ).

We appreciate that the considerable resources weve dedicated to internal controls was recognized by the DOJ, including enhancement to compliance policies, surveillance systems and training programs.

In other words, in return for a pro forma commitment to do better in the future, the DOJ was prepared to accept the fiction that JP Morgans illegal activities, extending for more than a decade, had somehow escaped the attention of the highest levels of the bank and were unknown to those in charge of its operations and dropped the prosecution.

The fact that the practice of spoofing was sanctioned from above emerged in the case brought against former JPMorgan trader Christian Trunz in August.

Trunz, who worked at the banks London, Singapore and New York offices, pleaded guilty to charges of placing orders for gold and other metals futures that he did not intend to execute.

The Justice Department said: Trunz learned to spoof from more senior traders, and spoofed with the knowledge and consent of his superiors.

In the final analysis, the criminal activity in this and other casestwo former Deutsche Bank traders were recently convicted of multiple counts of spoofing gold and silver markets between 2008 and 2013flows from the nature of the financial system itself in which vast profits are to be made from speculation and manipulation. There is a seamless passage from so-called legitimate trading to criminal activity.

In 2019 during an investigation into another spoofing case, the then Assistant Attorney General Brian Benczkowski was reported by the Financial Times as saying his department would follow the facts wherever they lead. Whether its across desks or upwards into the financial system.

But as the JPMorgan settlement once again reveals that is clearly not the case because penetration into the financial system would reveal the rot and criminality that lies at its heart.
Hong Kong: 'One country, two systems' beneficial

Secretary for Justice Teresa Cheng

Today is the 71st anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, which coincides with the Mid-Autumn Festival this year. Last time the Mid-Autumn Festival fell on the National Day was back in 2001. I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a safe and healthy Mid-Autumn Festival alongside the celebration of the National Day.

After 71 years of development, our country has made significant achievements with rapid economic and social changes. In 1978, China adopted a policy to modernise the agriculture, industry, science and technology as well as national defence, embarking on the remarkable journey of reform and opening up. Today, China has become the second largest economy in the world.

In the early days of our countrys reform and opening up, a large number of Hong Kong entrepreneurs invested in the Mainland and became Chinas window to the world, bringing in capital, talent and management system. Meanwhile, a lot of Hong Kong manufacturers moved their production lines northward to the Pearl River Delta region, creating business opportunities for entrepreneurs and making Hong Kong the bridge linking the Mainland and the global market. This enabled Hong Kong to establish and reinforce its present position as an international commercial, logistic, shipping, financial and professional service centre.

Hong Kong has been leveraging its advantages to integrate into the growth of our country, manifesting the principle of joint development, shared prosperity. The results were well recognised. The Belt & Road Initiative and the development of the Greater Bay Area have provided ample opportunities to us. We should capitalise on our unique position under the one country, two systems and utilise our talent and experience in finance, legal and technology sectors to complement the development of the bay area and expand our business along the Belt & Road development. This will not only revitalise the city but also make new contributions to our country.

This year also marks the 30th anniversary of the Basic Law's promulgation. The concept of one country, two systems is successfully implemented in the form of law under the Basic Law, keeping Hong Kong prosperous and stable. The Department of Justice is currently preparing for Legal Summit for the 30th Anniversary of the Promulgation of the Basic Law  Back to Basic in which experts will be invited to talk about the relationship among the Constitution, the Basic Law and one country, two systems from different perspectives, with a view to enhancing the public's understanding of the Constitution and the Basic Law.

In the Chinese tradition, country and family are inseparable. Our country provides a strong support to each of her nationals, ensuring that we can live and work in peace and prosperity. A stable family leads to a prosperous society. Last but not the least, I wish our country continued peace and prosperity in the years to come.

Secretary for Justice Teresa Cheng wrote this article and posted it on her blog on October 1.

This story has been published on: 2020-10-01. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
WASHINGTON  The United States has repatriated and charged the last Americans believed to be detained in Syria and accused of supporting the Islamic State, the Justice Department said on Wednesday. The move could give the Trump administration a stronger hand in its efforts to persuade other nations to repatriate and, when appropriate, prosecute citizens who traveled to the Middle East to support the group.

The Justice Department said that the four repatriated Americans were among about 2,000 men from dozens of countries who were imprisoned in northern Syria and caught for years in legal and political limbo. The four were captured and detained last spring by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces.

This is a significant moment in what has been a yearslong effort to bring back the individuals who left the U.S. to fight with ISIS, John C. Demers, the head of the Justice Departments National Security Division, said in an interview. Each country should take responsibility for the people who left their countries.

Two of the suspects, Emraan Ali and Jihad Ali, a father and son, made their initial appearance in federal court in Miami on Wednesday. Emraan Ali traveled to Syria in March 2015 with his family, including his son, and received military and religious training from the Islamic State, the government said in court documents. Mr. Ali and his son were accused of providing, trying to provide and conspiring to provide material support to the group. They were captured in 2019 during one of the Islamic States final battles to maintain its territory in Syria, the Justice Department said.
The province does not support the Manitoba Metis Federations move to establish a controlled and limited moose harvest, it stated in an email to The Brandon Sun late Wednesday.

The Government of Manitoba does not support this unilateral declaration from the MMF that was made without legislative authority, enforcement mechanisms or consultation with Indigenous and non-Indigenous harvesters, the province stated.

The province further stated it has a long history of respectful consultations with First Nation and Metis communities in its role as the Crown is ultimately responsible for the sustainable management of Manitobas wildlife.

These consultations included those that led to the establishment of the Duck and Porcupine Mountains moose hunting conservation closures established in 2011 and night hunting consultations, according to the email.

Earlier this year, the 2020 big game aerial survey results were released and shared with First Nation and Metis communities and non-Indigenous harvesters affected by conservation closures, while also requesting feedback and input, the province stated. Despite these conservation closures, moose populations have not recovered in these areas as quickly as initially anticipated.

Despite those statements, the province said that, based on the results of recent aerial population surveys, it believes these areas can provide a limited harvest opportunity without significantly jeopardizing long-term population recovery.

Manitoba created the means to provide a controlled limited moose hunting opportunity in these areas last fall and Manitoba is in the process of contacting eligible communities and organizations for this interim moose hunting opportunity for the fall of 2020, the province stated.

The interim hunt opportunities can be granted under Section 4.3 of the Moose Conservation Closure Regulations.

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Vietnamese carrier Vietjet has officially operated international commercial flights from Vietnam to South Korea following a long hiatus because of COVID-19.

Two Vietjet flights took off on Thursday from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, both bound for Seoul, the airline announced.

The carrier will operate one flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Seoul every Wednesday.

Services from Seoul to Ho Chi Minh City will also be run every Wednesday, starting from October 7.

Flights connecting Hanoi - Seoul - Ho Chi Minh City are additional services that Vietjet has urgently deployed to meet the increasing demand of traveling and trading as the international sky returns, especially for such an important market as South Korea, Vietjet said.

Passengers from Vietnam and South Korea are required to have a COVID-19-negative certificate issued within three days of departure time and to comply with mandatory medical quarantine requirements of the host countries, it added.

All documents are probably required upon immigration.

As regulated by the South Korean government, flyers from Vietnam to South Korea have to fill out all regulated forms before boarding their flight as well as abiding by compulsory quarantine requirements by local authorities.

Passengers flying to Vietnam can opt for self-paid centralized isolation at a number of hotels and accommodations in many cities and provinces.

Vietjet has also unveiled plans to commercially fly to Japan and Taiwan.

On September 25, a Vietnam Airlines plane landed in Hanoi from Seoul with 104 passengers on board.

This was the first international commercial flight after the Vietnamese government had suspended such services since March 25 to slow the spread of COVID-19. However, charter flights to the country have been arranged to bring in experts, skilled workers, and diplomats, and to repatriate Vietnamese citizens stranded in other nations and territories due to the pandemic.

The Vietnam Airlines flight was considered a trial service to assess the countrys capacity to handle regular international arrivals after a six-month closure, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam.

Vietnam has confirmed 1,095 coronavirus patients since January 23, when the virus first hit the country, according to the Ministry of Health's statistics.

It has recorded 35 virus-related deaths so far, most having suffered critical underlying health problems. The number of recovered patients has reached 1,010.

A new wave of infections battered the country on July 25, when Da Nang documented the first community transmission after 99 days of zero domestic cases nationwide.

A total of 551 local cases were then logged across Vietnam in the following weeks, the majority linked to Da Nang.

The nation spent over a month tracing contacts and managing to suppress the outbreak.

It has gone about one month without any infection in the community.

Vietnam has resumed commercial flights to certain destinations, including Thailand, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and mainland China.

Entrants from these places are now required to present certificates proving they tested negative for the novel coronavirus within three days of their boarding flights.

Vietnam began denying entry to foreign nationals on March 22 but the government allows foreign experts, skilled workers, investors, and diplomats to enter the country on a case-by-case basis, subject to mandatory quarantine.

Vietnam currently charges international arrivals for quarantine. It provided the quarantine service for free in the past.

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A man accused of having sex with a 14-year-old girl was today refused bail at Derry Magistrates Court.

Manjit Rathore is charged with engaging in sexual activity with a child under 16, child abduction, encouraging a child to engage in sexual activity, paying a child for sex and sexual grooming.

The offences are alleged to have taken place between December 1 and December 19 last year.

A previous court hearing was told that Rathore, who is 20 years-old and whose address was given as Fox Hollies Road in Birmingham, was arrested after he was found with the alleged injury party in a room in a Derry hotel.

The girl's father had contacted police to report her missing.

Rathore has been in custody since December and he appeared via video link before today's sitting of the local magistrates court to apply for bail.

A police officer told the court that they would object to bail for a number of reasons.

The officer said that if given bail to Birmingham, Rathore would be 'out of reach' for local police and would have access to the internet.

He said that the alleged injured party was 'infatuated' with the defendant and police feared that the girl would 'abscond' from home and leave the jurisdiction to be with him if Rathore was granted bail.

The officer said that an 'aggravating' factor in the case was the allegation that the defendant instigated the sexual contact with the girl on the night before her 15th birthday so he could 'deliberately' have sex with a 14-year-old girl.

Making the bail application, Rathore's solicitor, Andrew Beech, said his client had no desire to make contact with the alleged injury party and understood the consequences if he did so.

Mr Beech said a 10,000 surety was available from Rathore's mother and added that his client would abide by any conditions imposed as part of bail.

If granted bail to an address in Birmingham, Mr Beech said Rathore, who he said had now been in custody for nine and a half months, would have the support of his family and they would be able to 'keep an eye on him'.

However, Judge Barney McElholm refused the bail application.

He said Rathore had shown himself to be a 'resourceful and manipulative' person and was not someone who was suitable for bail.

The defendant was remanded in continuing custody.
P aris could be hit with stricter coronavirus restrictions, with the health minister threatening to close bars and ban family gatherings.

Infection rates in the French capital and its suburbs are rising and a decision on imposing new measures is likely to be made on Sunday, authorities said.

Health minister Olivier Veran warned that the government could classify Paris and surrounding areas as a "maximum alert zone" starting on Monday.

He did not set a limit on group sizes or indicate what the alert zone designation might mean for the French Open, currently under way on Paris's western edge, open to up to 1,000 spectators a day.

French health minister Olivier Veran at a news conference on coronavirus in Paris

This could lead to measures such as shutting bars and banning "family parties" or other big gatherings.

Figures have showed that Covid-19 patients fill about one-third of the intensive care units in the city.

ICUs in other regions of France are also filling up with virus patients, as more than two months of increasing infections have spread to the country's elderly and vulnerable populations.

France has been recording more than 10,000 new confirmed cases a day for the past two weeks, and has reported a total of 31,956 virus-related deaths, among the highest tolls in Europe.

Amid daily protests against virus restrictions on French cafes, Mr Veran said restaurants might be able to stay open if they impose tighter rules.

The maximum alert level means that "the risk of hospital saturation is very high," Mr Veran said.

It comes as authorities unveiled region-by-region data showing that the number of patients in intensive care in some areas is rising faster than the government predicted a month ago.

The Paris region looks especially worrying, with 30-35 per cent of ICU beds now occupied by virus patients, the health minister said.

Hospitals have been delaying some scheduled surgeries to make space for Covid cases, he added.

Paris is now registering nearly 200 positive cases per 100,000 people per week, and more than 100 positive cases per 100,000 elderly people.
Srinagar, Oct 1 (IANS) A soldier was killed in action in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in the Krishna Ghati sector along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district.

Pakistan violated the ceasefire on Wednesday night, officials said.

The soldier has been identified as Lance Naik Karnail Singh.
Some police officers were stunned by Ms. Arriagas death. The chances of this happening: a million to one, said one official, who asked to discuss the shooting on the condition of anonymity.

An hour after she was killed, a 25-year-old man working in an auto repair shop in Coney Island, Brooklyn, became the 344th murder victim: He was fatally shot in the chest by a gunman who drove by in a white van, the police said. Police withheld his name on Wednesday because his family had not been notified.

The police estimate that more than half of shootings in any given year involve people believed to be members of local gangs or street crews that feud over things like music, women and turf. Shootings often lead to reprisals, and only about a third are ever solved with an arrest.

We have to get results, Chief Terence A. Monahan, the highest-ranking uniformed officer, said in an interview last month. Too many bullets are flying in the city.

It is difficult to even track how often bullets intended for others hit bystanders, said Christopher Herrmann, a professor of law and policing at John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Most shootings go unsolved, and determining the relationship between the shooters and the victims often requires a significant amount of investigative muscle.

But as shootings increase in the city, the number of people struck unintentionally by bullets will naturally rise, too. Even police officers only hit their targets about 40 percent of the time, Mr. Herrmann said, and untrained gunmen in the streets are less accurate.
Partnership addresses demand from both manufacturers and pet owners for sustainable and responsibly sourced plant-based omega-3s

AMSTERDAM, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Corbion, the global market leader in algae-based ingredients for feed, announces the expansion of AlgaPrime DHA, a clean and sustainable source of omega-3s produced by algae, to the European and North American pet food industry.

This expansion marks a breakthrough in the scale and availability to the market of a sustainably produced omega-3 ingredient for the pet food industry. With a low carbon footprint, AlgaPrime DHA is a sustainable alternative to fish oil and helps to reduce pressure on global wild fish populations. In partnership with IQI Trusted Petfood Ingredients, a global provider of high-quality, specialty ingredients dedicated to the pet food market, Corbion and IQI are poised to increase distribution of AlgaPrime DHA in Europe and North America to quickly address the growing market demand for sustainably produced omega-3s.

AlgaPrime DHA is a native algae ingredient that contains high levels of omega-3 DHA, approximately twice as high as those found in commonly used fish oils. Omega-3s in pet food are essential fatty acids that are crucial for pets' cardiovascular, brain, eye and joint health. AlgaPrime DHA is a clean ingredient, sustainably grown in closed fermentation tanks with non-GM cane sugar as a feedstock and a production system powered by renewable energy. AlgaPrime DHA provides a solution to the increasing demand for omega-3s in pet food whilst addressing the clean label, plant-based trends. By incorporating AlgaPrime DHA, pet food manufacturers and brands can lower their environmental footprint due to the reduced reliance on marine fisheries and fish oil.

Further establishing sales into the pet food market is the latest expansion for AlgaPrime DHA which has seen success of use within the salmon aquaculture industry. Since 2016, Corbion has produced the omega-3 rich feed ingredient at a relevant scale - seeing increased use in salmon feed globally. This proven track record, and ability to produce the ingredient in short turnaround times, offers pet food producers a reliable, clean and consistent source of essential omega-3 DHA.

"As a dedicated supplier of long chain omega-3 fatty acids to the pet food industry we are excited about the possibilities and sustainable aspects of algae DHA coming from AlgaPrime DHA," says Geert van der Velden, Innovation Manager, IQI Trusted Petfood Ingredients.

"The strategic partnership with IQI allows us to expand the nutritional and sustainability benefits of AlgaPrime DHA to another relevant market and to companies on an international scale which enables us to grow the adoption at a rapid pace," said Corbion's Head of Animal Nutrition, Karel Bierman. "We're confident that IQI's experienced team and dedication to the pet food market will help the continued growth of AlgaPrime DHA," said Luke Townsend, Director of Business Development at Corbion.

For additional information about AlgaPrime DHA and where to purchase please contact info@algaprime.com or sales@iqi-petfood.com.

About Corbion

Corbion is the global market leader in lactic acid and its derivatives, and a leading supplier of emulsifiers, functional enzyme blends, minerals, vitamins, and algae ingredients. We use our unique expertise in fermentation and other processes to deliver sustainable solutions for the preservation of food and food production, health, and our planet. For over 100 years, we have been uncompromising in our commitment to safety, quality, innovation and performance. Drawing on our deep application and product knowledge, we work side-by-side with customers to make our cutting-edge technologies work for them. Our solutions help differentiate products in markets such as food, home & personal care, animal nutrition, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and bioplastics. In 2019, Corbion generated annual sales of  976.4 million and had a workforce of 2.138 FTE. Corbion is listed on Euronext Amsterdam. For more information: www.corbion.com

About IQI

IQI is a global provider of premium claim-ingredients to the top brands in the pet food industry, who goes to great length to assure the quality of their products. IQI products are carefully monitored and developed through continuous innovation and by responding to the latest trends and pet needs. Since the pet food business is all about trust, IQI invests a great deal in maximizing the quality of their partnerships. Working closely together with their customers as well as with their suppliers, IQI creates full transparency in the supply chain. IQI controls every step in the process from source to shelf to supply products that are pure and traceable to the source.

For more information, please contact:

Press:

AlgaPrime@rfbinder.com

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CANBERA (dpa-AFX) - The Australian and NZ dollars moved up against their major counterparts in the Asian session on Thursday, as strong U.S. data and optimism over a stimulus deal underpinned risk sentiment.



Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said that there is progress in stimulus talks on coronavirus relief bill and would continue to negotiate with Democrats.



Better-than-expected ADP private payrolls data raised expectations that the last U.S. jobs report before the November election due out later this week will probably show the labor market's rebound continued in September.



Survey from IHS Markit showed that Australia's manufacturing sector continued to expand in September, and at a faster rate, with a manufacturing PMI score of 55.4.



That's up from 53.6 in August and it moves further above the boom-or-bust line of 50 that separates expansion from contraction.



The aussie climbed to a 9-day high of 0.7189 against the greenback and a 10-day high of 75.86 against the yen, after falling to 0.7155 and 75.45, respectively in previous deals. The aussie is poised to find resistance around 0.73 against the greenback and 78.00 against the yen.



Reversing from its early lows of 1.6378 against the euro and 0.9525 against the loonie, the aussie edged up to 1.6331 and 0.9554, respectively. Next key resistance for the aussie is possibly seen around 1.62 against the euro and 0.98 against the loonie.



The NZ currency appreciated to an 8-day high of 0.6641 against the greenback and a 10-day high of 70.07 against the yen, up from its previous lows of 0.6608 and 69.69, respectively. The kiwi is seen finding resistance around 0.68 against the greenback and 72.00 against the yen.



The kiwi gained to 1.7692 against the euro, following a fall to 1.7719 at 9:30 pm ET. If the kiwi rises further, 1.74 is likely seen as its next resistance level.



The kiwi recovered to 1.0810 versus the aussie, off its early low of 1.0834. On the upside, 1.06 is likely found as its next resistance level.



Looking ahead, PMI reports from major European economies, Eurozone PPI and jobless rate for August are due in the European session.



Canada building permits for August, U.S. weekly jobless claims for the week ended September 26, ISM manufacturing for September, construction spending for August and personal income and spending data for the same month will be released in the New York session.



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

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CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose will allow the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections to have its staff collect absentee ballots on Chester Avenue in an attempt to prevent what a federal judge called a catastrophe for residents seeking to turn in their votes.

LaRose approved a portion of the boards plan that allows staffers to collect ballots in a parking lot at 3100 Chester Ave., according to filings late Wednesday afternoon in federal court in Cleveland. The lot is adjacent to the boards offices.

The plan will go into effect Oct. 13, and it will include weekend hours, as well. The site will be in addition to the drop box at the county board. U.S. District Judge Dan Polster is expected to review the plan.

The move comes days after the judge ordered LaRose to work with county elections officials regarding Polsters concerns that Nov. 3, Election Day, will be chaotic, as thousands of residents try to cast absentee ballots at the board office.

The board sought staffed, ballot drop-off sites at six libraries across the county and the site on Chester Avenue. LaRose prevented that measure initially, citing pending lawsuits.

At an emergency meeting of the board Wednesday, members expressed relief but wondered why LaRose limited the boards original plan that had gained its bipartisan support. Members said they hope the original plan they unanimously approved would still be possible.

David Wondolowski, a member of the panel, said he is still concerned about safety, as people would still face traffic issues on Chester.

Inajo Davis Chappell, another member of the board, stressed that the additional site is helpful, but she had hoped to work with LaRose on the plan. Instead, attorneys for LaRose contacted the county prosecutors office about the secretarys decision.

LaRoses decision follows Polsters sidestepping of a ruling on whether counties across the state can have multiple drop boxes. Last week, Polster heard nearly 15 hours of testimony and arguments stemming from LaRoses directive Aug. 12 that permitted each county to have just one drop box at its board of elections.

Two weeks after that, voting-rights groups went to federal court, seeking an injunction because they said the directive was unconstitutional, and it would hinder voters' access. Polster heard the testimony in the case, but he said he would wait for the Ohio 10th District Court of Appeals to decide a similar lawsuit brought in Franklin County by the Ohio Democratic Party, as its ruling could make his decision moot.

In an attempt to work around the measure, the countys board pushed to allow staff members from each political party to gather absentee ballots at libraries in the county.

The collection site on Chester Avenue is scheduled to have these hours:

 Oct. 13 to Oct. 16, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 Oct. 19 to Oct. 23, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

 Oct. 26 to Oct. 30, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

 Oct. 24 and Oct. 31, Saturdays, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

 Oct. 25 and Nov. 1, Sundays, from 1 to 4 p.m.

The parking lot will be staffed Monday, Nov. 2, and Election Day from 8:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Tony is a retired 4-star General and was the 11th Commander of the U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM). Dash is a retired 3-star General and was the former Deputy Chief of Staff for Air Force Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance.

"Analysts and operators are facing exponential growth in the volume, velocity, and variety of all sources of intelligence that they must rapidly understand and act upon to stay ahead of our adversaries. Tony and Dash know firsthand that the only way to address this information overload is by pairing analysts with algorithms," said Primer CEO & Founder Sean Gourley. "From their time spent on the battlefield and in the Pentagon, they know exactly what kinds of capabilities our military requires to ensure the safety of the U.S. and its allies. We're thrilled to have them join our team."

In his distinguished career with the U.S. military, Tony was entrusted with the command of all U.S. and NATO Special Operations Forces in Afghanistan, ultimately commanding all U.S. Special Operations Forces globally, with over 90,000 members operating in 90 countries. He is the former Commander of both U.S. Special Operations Command and Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC). Tony served 39 years in the US Army and since 2001 has had more combat deployments than any other senior officer. Tony was one of the military's earliest and strongest advocates for applied artificial intelligence on the battlefield and was the first Combatant Commander to appoint a Chief Data Officer to bring private sector solutions to warfighters. He graduated from the U.S. Military Academy in 1980 and also attended the U.S. Army War College and Naval Command and Staff College.

"In my time with SOCOM and JSOC, our biggest enemy was information overload, even more so than any physical threat," said Gen. Thomas. "Primer's world-leading natural language processing and generation solutions are exactly the types of advanced artificial intelligence solutions that the DoD needs in order to continue fulfilling their missions, and I could not be more excited to advise the firm on their continued work with the IC and DOD."

Lieutenant General (R) Dash Jamieson has 37 years of distinguished military service, having commanded units from the squadron level to a career culminating as the Director of the United States Air Force's Intelligence Surveillance, Reconnaissance and Cyber Effects enterprise, where she was the Air Force's Senior Intelligence Officer. Dash was the driving force behind building a cohesive team of the Air Forces' intelligence and cyber forces into a single war fighting organization: a $72B entity with 73,000 personnel conducting global operations across the Department of Defense. She was also responsible for cultivating strategic partnerships with the private sector, including Microsoft, Amazon, Google and IBM, to accelerate the Air Force's digital transformation. She led units in Germany, Hawaii, Florida, Afghanistan, and Virginia and has been the senior Government representative to multiple Senate and House of Representatives committees. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from West Virginia University, and has two Master's degrees, one in Strategic Studies from the National Defense University in Washington DC and one in Aviation Management from Embry-Riddle University, Daytona Beach Florida.

"I believe in winning today, while preparing for tomorrow. And to do that, the US military needs to continue embracing new artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies," said Lt. Gen. Jamieson. "A combination of human and machine intelligence is needed to prepare our military for the threats of tomorrow, and I believe Primer's automated intelligence gathering and analysis techniques are exactly what we need."

More than 15 percent of Primer's employees previously worked within the U.S. Department of Defense or Intelligence Community. Recently, Primer added national security experts Sue Gordon, former Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence, as a strategic advisor, and Brett McGurk, former Special Presidential Envoy for the Global Coalition to Counter ISIL, as a member of its board. In order to support the fastest growing sector of our business, Primer opened an office in Washington D.C. last year.

About Primer

Primer is a machine intelligence company headquartered in San Francisco. We build machines that can read and write, automating the analysis of very large datasets. Primer's technology is deployed by some of the world's largest government agencies, financial institutions, and Fortune 50 companies. For more information, please visit primer.ai

SOURCE Primer AI
China sentences Christian bookseller to 7 years in prison, destroys thousands of 'illegal' books

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A Chinese Christian online bookstore owner has been sentenced to seven years in prison and fined nearly $30,000 for engaging in what the regime deems as illegal business operations."

Persecution watchdog International Christian Concern reports that in September 2019, Chen Yu, who operated his online bookstore in Zhejiang provinces Taizhou city, was detained for selling unapproved religious publications imported from Taiwan, the U.S., and other countries.

Last week, he was sentenced to seven years in prison and fined 200,000 RMB ($29,450), according to a document from the Peoples Court of Linhai City, shared by Father Francis Liu from the Chinese Christian Fellowship of Righteousness.

Additionally, Chen will also have his iPhone confiscated, while the 12,864 Christian books from his bookstore will be destroyed by the Linhai City Public Security Bureau.

ICC reports that police also launched a nationwide investigation to track down the bookstores customers through sale records and will confiscate their purchased books.

Gina Goh, ICCs Regional Manager for Southeast Asia, said Chens sentencing reveals Chinas Communist Party is increasingly frightened by all things religious.

From religious symbols, Chinese couplets, to Christian books, anything that features religious elements is no longer tolerated by the Chinese Communist Party, she said.

Goh warned that the disproportionate sentencing of Christians such as Early Rain Covenant Church Pastor Wang Yi  who was sentenced to nine years in prison under the same charge as Chen Yu  implies that the crackdown against Christianity will only intensify.

The U.S. government and international community should continue to stand up to the tyranny in Beijing, she stressed.

As the Chinese Communist Party seeks to limit the influence of Christianity in China, authorities have increasingly cracked down on Christian booksellers and their customers.

Last year, the owner of Wheat Bookstore, Zhang Xiaomai, was detained on suspicion of illegal business operations. A government-issued document accused her of buying religious publications from overseas and illegally selling them.

Police subsequently launched a nationwide investigation to track down the bookstores customers through sales orders and confiscated their books.

A house church pastor from Shenzhen city in the southern province of Guangdong who was summoned for purchasing from Wheat Bookstore, told Bitter Winter, People who buy Christian books are practicing believers, so the government looks into them to determine how dangerous they are to the stability of their regime.

The Communist Party has done too many shameful deeds and continues to suppress people. Our government has a guilty conscience, the pastor added.

A house church preacher from Shandong also told Bitter Winter that the police investigated him after discovering that he had purchased religious materials on Taobao.com, a Chinese online shopping website.

It seems to me that the government can access anything; I feel like I am running naked, the preacher said.

In April 2018, the Chinese government banned online retailers from selling the Bible. Legally, the Bible can only be distributed by government-approved agencies that supervise the Christian churches in China.

The CCP has also amped up measures to destroy religious symbols. In the first half of 2020 alone, over 900 crosses were removed from state-run churches across China.

In several provinces across the country, authorities have ordered residents to replace pictures of Jesus with those of Chairman Mao and those of General Secretary Xi Jinping.

China is ranked as one of the worst countries in the world when it comes to the persecution of Christians, according to Open Doors USAs World Watch List.

The communist regime's crackdown on religious freedom has also led the U.S. State Department to label it as a country of particular concern for continuing to engage in particularly severe violations of religious freedom.

This week, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo stressed that nowhere is religious freedom under assault more than in China, warning that the CCP is trying to snuff out the lamp of freedom, especially religious freedom, on a horrifying scale.
Smart plugs risk exposing sensitive data to hackers or creating a serious fire risk in the home, an investigation by consumer champions Which? has found.

Internet-connected 'smart' plugs let users turn standard appliances on and off remotely via an app on their smartphone.

But smart plug makers like TP-Link, Hive and Hictkon all have products open to vulnerabilities making them liable to hazards, and are on sale through retailers including Amazon Marketplace and eBay.

One plug made by Hictkon is so dangerous that it 'should not be sold' due to the fire risk it presents to people in the home, according to Which?.

Online retailers should take more responsibility for the safety and security of the products sold on their sites even if the seller is a third-party, Which? says, adding that government intervention is needed.



Which? experts suspect the Hictkon Smart Plug (pictured) came with a fake CE safety marking and is 'so dangerous that it should not be sold'.

'Connected devices like smart plugs bring potential benefits and convenience to our lives, but also significant risks if they are poorly made and sold without any safety checks or monitoring,' said Kate Bevan, computing editor at Which?.

'Government legislation to tackle unsecure products should be introduced without delay and must be backed by an enforcement body with teeth that is able to crack down on these devices.

WHAT ARE SMART PLUGS? Controlled by an app, a smart plug lets users turn on and off any appliance that plugs into a standard wall socket. They give users remote control over standard appliances that would normally be plugged into the mains. Users need to plug their smart plug into any standard wall socket and plug their chosen appliance into it. The chosen appliance doesn't have to be a smart appliance. With an accompanying app, the smart plug controls when the appliance plugged into it is turned on and off. Source: Alarm.com Advertisement

'Online marketplaces should also be given more legal responsibility for preventing unsafe products from being sold on their sites.

'In the meantime, online marketplaces, retailers and manufacturers must be far more proactive in preventing devices with security issues ending up in people's homes.'

Which? bought 10 smart plugs available from online retailers and marketplaces.

Products ranged from well-known brands such as TP-Link and Hive to more obscure names such as Hictkon, Meross and Ajax Online.

Which? worked with security consultants NCC Group to test the 10 smart plugs for security and safety in August 2020.

Experts found 13 vulnerabilities among nine of the plugs.

Three of these were rated as 'high impact' and another three as 'critical'  all of which could pose a major risk to peoples homes.

One device had a critical fault that could cause a fire or even an explosion 'big enough to destroy the device plugged in to it'.

Which? said the Hictkon Smart Plug with Dual USB Ports, which was available on Amazon Marketplace, has been poorly designed.

Its major issue is that its live connection is far too close to an energy-monitoring chip.

This could cause an arc  a luminous electrical discharge between two electrodes  which poses a fire risk, particularly to older homes with older wiring.

Which? experts suspect the Hictkon Smart Plug came with a fake CE safety marking and is 'so dangerous that it should not be sold'.

Hive Active plug, available at a wide range of retailers including Amazon, John Lewis, Currys PC World, B&Q and Screwfix, has a smaller window of opportunity for cyber attackers than other plugs, Which? said

Amazon has since taken this smart plug off sale pending an investigation and the old webpage for the product now redirects to the Amazon homepage.

SMART PLUG VULNERABILITIES Hictkon Smart Plug  Live connection too close to an energy-monitoring chip, which is a fire hazard. Innr SP 222 Zigbee 3.0  Vulnerability that could allow cybercriminals to steal the network password when connected to Tuya hub. Ajax Online  Same vulnerability as above. Hive Active plug  Same vulnerability as above, although with a smaller window of opportunity for attack. Meross Smart Plug WiFi Socket  Issue with users Wi-Fi passwords not being encrypted during setup. TP-Link Kasa  Flaw that meant an attacker could seize total control of the plug. Advertisement

Which? said: 'Anyone who has purchased one of these devices should unplug it and stop using it immediately.'

Meanwhile, other smart plugs were deemed a cybersecurity risk rather than posing an immediate physical threat.

Several of the products tested had a critical vulnerability that could allow cybercriminals to steal the network password.

This could be used to hack not only the plugs and the hub, but also any other connected products, such as a thermostat, camera or potentially a laptop.

This issue allegedly emerges when users connect two plugs  the Innr SP 222 Zigbee 3.0 Smart Plug (available on Amazon and eBay) and Ajax Online plugs (available on Amazon)  to a Tuya hub, a commonly used hub for connecting devices using the Zigbee specification.

As well as giving an attacker access to devices, this vulnerability could also divulge information like when people are out of their homes, which is 'potentially a gift to criminals', Which? said.

Innr claimed this issue was more with the Zigbee implementation on the hub used in the testing.

Ajax also said in a statement to MailOnline that this is not an issue caused by the plugs but the Tuya hubs.

'We have contacted Tuya directly and informed them of this issue,' an Ajax spokesperson said.

Tuya told MailOnline 'it is committed to providing the secure platform to our global clients and maintains data privacy as the top priority'.

'We use almost all mainstream information security standards on the market to ensure safe data transmission,' a Tuya spokesperson said.

'Tuya does not accept any allegation of risk from third-party sub-devices unless security testing is specifically targeted at Tuya Zigbee Hub devices themselves.'

Several of the products tested had a critical vulnerability that could allow cybercriminals to steal the network password and use that to hack plugs and other connected products, such as a thermostat, camera or a laptop. Which? found this issue emerges when connecting two plugs - the Innr SP 222 Zigbee 3.0 Smart Plug (pictured) and Ajax Online plugs (below) - to a Tuya hub, a commonly used hub for connecting Zigbee devices

Ajax Online plug (pictured), which is available on Amazon. Ajax said there is an issue caused by the Tuya hubs and not with the plugs

Which? found the same issue with the popular Hive Active plug, available at Amazon, John Lewis, Currys PC World, B&Q and Screwfix.

The 'window of opportunity for attack' on Hive Active was smaller on this device, however.

'We agree any potential vulnerability is serious and we will be reviewing their full findings to evaluate the seriousness of this claim,' a Hive spokesperson said.

'However, from what we have seen to-date, and as verified by Which?, the risk to our customers brought about from this scenario is extremely low due to the small window of opportunity, the customer interaction required and the need to be in close proximity to the devices.'

Experts also uncovered a critical issue with users Wi-Fi passwords not being encrypted during the setup of smart plugs, meaning an attacker could steal them.

Kasa Smart Plug by TP-Link (pictured). TP-Link has developed a fix for the vulnerability with the Kasa smart plug and this will roll out in October 2020. Which? will be verifying the fix when it becomes available

The Meross Smart Plug WiFi Socket, sold on Amazon and eBay, could allow a hacker to enjoy free internet at the users expense.

It could also let them monitor what sites a person is visiting and attempt to compromise other devices that they have connected to the smart home system.

In the case of the TP-Link Kasa smart plug, a flaw means an attacker could seize total control of the plug and of the power going to the connected device.

TP-Link also shares the email address used to set up the plug unencrypted with potential hackers, which could be used in phishing scams.

TP-Link has developed a fix for the vulnerability with the Kasa smart plug, which will roll out this month.

Hive is also in the process of fixing issues with its products, Which? said.

'Which? is also in ongoing talks with Innr while Meross has said it will fix the issue but this could take six months or more.'

The Meross Smart Plug WiFi Socket, sold on Amazon and eBay, could 'allow a hacker to enjoy free internet at the users expense'

In July, the UK government detailed its plans to bring security requirements for smart devices into law, including three basic security requirements that 'may be expanded on over time'.

Which? said none of the plugs it tested would currently meet these requirements under the law.

In response to the Which? findings, Amazon said in a statement: 'Safety is important to Amazon and we want customers to shop with confidence in our stores.

'We have proactive measures in place to prevent suspicious or non-compliant products from being listed and we monitor the products sold in our stores for product safety concerns.

'When appropriate, we remove a product from the store, reach out to sellers, manufacturers, and government agencies for additional information, or take other actions.

'If customers have concerns about an item theyve purchased, we encourage them to contact our Customer Service team directly so we can investigate and take appropriate action.'
Quebec reported 16 more deaths Thursday as it began the first day of new restrictions meant to flatten a spike in COVID-19 infections, while Ontario tweaked its school screening guidelines and a hospital outbreak in Calgary grew.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 1/10/2020 (478 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Quebec reported 16 more deaths Thursday as it began the first day of new restrictions meant to flatten a spike in COVID-19 infections, while Ontario tweaked its school screening guidelines and a hospital outbreak in Calgary grew.

Partial lockdowns in the Montreal and Quebec City areas, along with a region south of the provincial capital, are to last at least 28 days.

Students from Lasalle Community Comprehensive High School walk out of class to protest COVID-19 safety concerns Thursday, October 1, 2020 in Montreal. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ryan Remiorz

Bars, casinos, concert halls, cinemas, museums and libraries have shuttered and restaurants are limited to takeout.

The province announced Thursday that restaurants and bars forced to close can get loans to cover certain fixed costs not covered by federal programs. Up to 80 per cent of the loan amount, to a maximum of $15,000, will be forgivable.

It's damn good news for us, said Paul Holder, who co-owns several restaurants in Montreal.

But Holder said it won't cover the full amount of rent and taxes. He and other business owners say they're still confused about why, after building barriers to separate customers and ensuring staff are wearing personal protective equipment, they've been forced to close.

Private gatherings are prohibited in the affected regions and people cannot have any visitors from another address at their homes, with few exceptions.

Outdoor gatherings are forbidden, masks are mandatory for demonstrations and police have the power to hand out hefty fines to those who flout the rules.

The new deaths brought Quebec's total to 5,850. It had 933 new cases and the number of people in hospital rose by 13 to 275. Forty-six people were in intensive care.

Ontario tweaked its screening guidelines for schools and daycares so that students with the sniffles or a headache can return after 24 hours if they feel fine.

Previously, they had to stay home until they received a negative test result or another medical diagnosis, often causing parents to line up for hours for tests.

There's all sorts of other causes of a runny nose. There's other viruses circulating in the community, said Dr. Barbara Yaffe, Ontario's associate chief medical officer of health.

The kid might have just been outside and got a runny nose.

In Ontario, there were 538 new COVID-19 cases and three new deaths. There were 162 people in hospital, including 36 in intensive care.

Nearly 40,000 tests were completed since Ontario's last daily report, but there were still more than 82,000 samples waiting to be processed.

In Alberta, a technical glitch prevented 5,000 people who tested negative for the novel coronavirus from getting their results by phone autodialer or text. Those affected made up less than three per cent of the 224,000 tests completed between Sept. 3 and 29.

Anyone with a positive result in that time frame was informed by direct phone call.

Alberta Health Services said Thursday the problem had been corrected and delayed results were being delivered.

Also in Alberta, nearly 300 staff at the Foothills Medical Centre in Calgary were isolating as the number of COVID-19 infections at the busy hospital continued to grow.

As of Thursday, 35 patients, 29 workers and three visitors had contracted the virus. Five patients had died.

Staff restrictions and a reduced number of in-patient beds has meant 45 of 260 planned surgeries at the hospital have been postponed.

Jen Zoratti | Next A weekly look towards a post-pandemic future delivered to your inbox every Wednesday. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement.

Alberta reported 173 new cases in Thursday's update and two additional deaths. Sixty-four people were in hospital, including 12 in intensive care.

Provincial chief medical officer Dr. Deena Hinshaw said COVID-19 won't scuttle Halloween this year. She said it should be safe as long as trick-or-treaters stick to their cohorts and there aren't indoor parties.

"I have no plans to suggest that Alberta cancel Halloween this year," she said. "My own children would never forgive me."

Also on Thursday, Manitoba went live with the national COVID Alert app as the province reported 36 new cases.

Quebec is to follow in the next few days. British Columbia, Alberta, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island are in the final stages of discussions with Ottawa.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 1, 2020.
MBABANE  There are concerns over COVID-19 results as some patients claim that they are forced to wait for over three weeks without receiving them.

The patients are aggrieved that no feedback is given to them by doctors or personnel from the COVID-19 laboratory. In an interview with some of the patients, they alleged that no one at the laboratory took the responsibility to notify them once there was a discrepancy with their samples. They claimed that they had to approach the laboratory to inquire about the results and were told that the samples were rejected and discarded due to information that did not correspond.

According to a patient, she questioned what happened to the specimen when the information did not correspond and the response by the laboratory employee was that if no one came to rectify the problem, they discarded it. She said she was told that the specimen was kept for a few days before being discarded.

Samples

I was not content with the response, especially because patients are not notified after the discarding of their samples until they call to make a follow-up on their results, she said. She said in her case, nobody had contacted her but she decided to approach the laboratory seeking answers by virtue of being a health personnel. Further, she said the hospital informed her to re-swab. She stated that following her re-swab, her results came out positive.

Meanwhile, she said she was worried about the inaccurate statistics which were communicated to the nation. My daughter also faced the same predicament. She has not gone back for re-swabbing and insists the symptoms have gone away and she is fine. The patient said she believed that there were those people who were tested because they showed COVID-19 symptoms and given medication while waiting for their results, and then they did not make a follow-up. These people, she said, were not recorded in the statistics given to the nation.

Clarity

One of the COVID-19 laboratory employees who was sought for clarity said usually when samples were rejected, they informed the doctor responsible for taking the swab.
Kamala Khan/Ms. Marvel broke barriers as the first Muslim superhero to lead a Marvel comic book series. Now the groundbreaking character will become the first Muslim superhero to star in a live-action Marvel, Disney Plus series.

After an extensive search, Canadian newcomer Iman Vellani will portray Ms. Marvel, a Pakistani-American teen living in New Jersey who loves being a hero and idolizes Captain Marvel, in the upcoming Dinsey Plus series.

Newcomer Iman Vellani To Play Title Role In Marvels Ms. Marvel Series For Disney Plus https://t.co/ZOfdPK4qV5  Deadline Hollywood (@DEADLINE) September 30, 2020

While Kumail Nanjiani tweeted his tears of joy and congratulated Vellani, the Pakistani-American actor and comedian technically welcomed the young actress to the same MCU family in which he has also recently joined. Nanjiani is known for his comedic performance in Silicon Valley and for films like The Big Sick and The Lovebirds. Though, Marvel fans will soonish see him co-star in the upcoming ensemble epic Eternals as Kingo, a cosmic-powered being and swordsman who becomes a Bollywood star to fit in on Earth.

I just saw they cast Ms. Marvel and legit got teary eyed.



Congratulations Iman Vellani! Your work is going to mean so much to so many people, myself included. I cant wait.  Kumail Nanjiani (@kumailn) September 30, 2020

Eternals is in post-production, according to IMDb, and part of MCUs Phase Four slate of TV and cinematic projects. The film was initially planned for November 2020, but was pushed to November 2021, due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Also part of Phase Four are upcoming films like the completed Black Widow, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings," Thor: Love and Thunder" and more. While WandaVision will kick off Marvel Disney Plus shows later this year, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier will premiere in 2021, as of now. Other new Disney Plus series were recently announced: Samuel L. Jackson will reprise his MCU role in his own Nick Fury" series and Tatiana Maslany will star as the titular character in a She-Hulk series.

Marvel Studios' chief Kevin Fiege announced that Ms. Marvel will not only star in her own series, but in future MCU films, according to Deadline.
(Alliance News) - Bahamas Petroleum Co PLC on Thursday said it has raised GBP9.5 million to help fund drilling of the Perseverance 1 well in the Bahamas.

The Caribbean and Atlantic Margin focused oil and gas company said 475.0 million shares were issued at 2 pence each.

The stock was down 23% at 2.16p each in London on Thursday morning.

"Since mid-2019 we have been diligently implementing a funding strategy designed to ensure we have access to the funds we need, as and when we need them, such that we can efficiently discharge our licence obligation and the technical objectives for the Perseverance 1 well," Chief Executive Officer Simon Potter said.

By Eric Cunha; ericcunha@alliancenews.com

Copyright 2020 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
Update:

A Seguin resident has claimed the $47 million jackpot prize, the Texas Lottery confirmed.

The winner wished to remain anonymous. The cash value option was selected at the time of purchase and the winner received $39,767,339.23, according to a news release.

The winning ticket matched all six of the numbers drawn and was purchased at Pic N Pac 10, located at 109 Highway 123 N. Bypass, in Seguin, the release said.

Original:

A $47 million Lotto Texas ticket was sold in Seguin, according to the Texas Lottery website. The jackpot on Wednesday was the largest in North America at the time.

The winning ticket was sold at a Pic-N-Pac in Seguin, located at 109 Texas 123 N. bypass, according to the Texas Lottery website. The winning numbers for Wednesday's drawing were 4-11-16-19-27-30. Another 46 people hit five numbers out of six.

The winner was not named, but the lottery website shows they chose the cash value option.

READ ALSO: San Antonian wins $1 million playing the lotto near Leon Valley

So far in 2020, there has only been one Lotto Texas jackpot winner, a Laredo resident who claimed a jackpot prize of $17.5 million for the drawing held on Jan. 15. Since then, the lotto had grown to the $47 million jackpot.

The Wednesday prize was the largest its been since 2010. A Dallas resident claimed a $97 million Lotto Texas jackpot on May 29, 2010, according to Texas lottery officials.

The largest Lotto Texas jackpot was $145 million and was sold in El Paso on June 19, 2004.

Lotto Texas is played by picking six numbers from one to 54 and offers multimillion-dollar jackpots. Drawings are held every Wednesday and Saturday at 10:12 p.m.

Priscilla Aguirre is a general assignment reporter for MySA.com | priscilla.aguirre@express-news.net | @CillaAguirre
Wayne County Commissioners adopted a Human Rights Ordinance for Wayne County today in a unanimous vote.

The ordinance prohibits discriminations against individuals on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, sex, age, height, weight, family status, condition of pregnancy, marital status, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, HIV status, veteran status, or political affiliation.

It also bans discrimination in housing, public accommodations and employment, among other specified areas. Cities and charter townships in the county are not prohibited from adopting ordinances of their own.

The proposed ordinance was also unanimously approved Tuesday, Sept. 22 by the commissions Committee on Health and Human Services. A copy of the proposed ordinance is available on the Committee on Health and Human Services section of the county webpage, www.waynecounty.com.

This says that Wayne County is a place where you can come, live and raise your family without any concerns, said Commissioner Tim Killeen, the ordinances sponsor. Killeen (D-Detroit) is Health & Human Services Committee chair.

This is an excellent bookend to Executive (Warren C.) Evans Welcoming Wayne County initiative.

Ordinance enforcement will be overseen by a newly created seven-member Human Rights Commission to be appointed by the Wayne County Executive with approval by the county commission.

The ordinance becomes Chapter 55 of the Wayne County Code of Ordinances and will officially be known as the Wayne County Human Rights Ordinance.

Commission Chair Alisha Bell said the ordinance will be shared with other counties throughout the state and nation interested in adopting similar ordinances of their own.

Members of the Committee on Health & Human Services conducted a public hearing on the ordinance in July.

Organizations including Fair and Equal Michigan and Equality Michigan, LGBT Detroit as well as Realtor associations representing Detroit and Grosse Pointe, had input on the ordinance, Killeen said.

Source: Wayne County Commission
In Indian states in general, and Uttar Pradesh (UP) in particular, the political formation and the social coalition that wins an election and assumes power controls the thana, that lowest administrative police unit that has the maximum interface with citizens. If you are in power in Lucknow, you decide who will be the police officials in charge of these local police stations. If you come from a strong caste-based political stream or have loyalties to your caste group, it is likely that those in charge of basic policing will either be from the same caste group  or be more responsive to members of the politically dominant caste at a particular juncture. The logical corollary of this is that those who belong to castes outside the favoured coalition of ruling castes will find it harder to access justice.

The shocking Hathras episode is but a reflection of this corrosive linkage between political power, State functioning, and social dynamics. When it was the Samajwadi Party in power, Yadavs dominated the administrative structure  and the local thana was seen as primarily a Yadav bastion. When the Bahujan Samaj Party was in power, Dalits  traditionally excluded from power structures  had greater access to local police. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) wins elections on broad Hindu identity-based mobilisation  this means that Muslims have almost no representation politically, which limits their access to State institutions. But given the heterogeneity within the Hindu fold, a BJP-led administration is not just exclusivist vis-a-vis Muslims, but ends up shifting power in favour of some Hindu castes over others.

Indeed, this was the BJPs perpetual stumbling block in creating its desired united Hindu vote. Over the past six years, the party has attempted to become a more inclusive Hindu formation, which embraces all castes, and moves beyond its traditional upper-caste orientation. Not only have Dalits voted for the party in large numbers, it also has the highest number of Dalit public representatives and has sought to give them space in the party structure. But as its rule in UP has consistently shown, the attempt to expand constantly collides with its traditional upper-caste orientation. The Yogi administration is seen as partial to Thakurs; there appears to be a clear bias in police functioning; and other social groups get marginalised. Hathras is not just a human tragedy and an administrative failure of the UP government. It is also a political failure of the BJP. It must recognise that harmony among castes isnt possible without justice.
Tuesday night was a national embarrassment, and both candidates are to blame. Donald Trump came into the evening apparently determined to dominate the discussion, and he did. To some extent, I think it was effective; he certainly came off as the warmer body with more ideas about what America should be and with more energy to make those ideas come to life. But he was also cruel at times  such as when he dismissed Joe Bidens late son saying, I dont know Beau. I know Hunter  and acted unfit for office at others, like when he again tossed out a garbled word salad when asked if he would accept the results of the election.

Biden had his own unbecoming moments  shut up, man!  but his greatest crime was that he spent the evening hiding his agenda from the American people. Its obvious why: Trump is unlikable enough to many voters that Biden is hoping to coast into office on the strength of a personality gap between the two. Why get bogged down in policy discussions that could alienate one wing of his party or another? Still, it was galling of a major party nominee to say aloud that he was not going to answer whether he would support an effort to pack the court as president. And while that comment may have been the most explicit dodge, it typified his overall performance, which was much less substantive than Trumps.

Take the debate exchange about the coronavirus. Biden listed the case and fatality numbers before attacking Trump for his failures in leadership. What he didnt do was explain what his solution would have looked like. Sure, he said he would have provided all the protective gear possible and agreed to the second coronavirus relief bill passed by the House. But the Trump administration  its myriad other failings aside  has done a commendable (and usually unacknowledged) job acquiring and distributing ample personal protection equipment (PPE), as Rich Lowry detailed in The Massive Trump Coronavirus Supply Effort That the Media Loves to Hate. And it is Senate Democrats who have blocked GOP efforts to pass another relief bill because it was not as expansive as they would have liked.

Story continues

Trump responded by criticizing Biden for accepting Chinas and Russias numbers as gospel; he accurately noted that Biden called Trumps Chinese travel ban xenophobic, and then he went on to clumsily defend his record on producing and providing ventilators and PPE. Biden proceeded to hit Trump for both the lockdowns and the death toll, saying that this is his economy he shut down and asking how many of you got up this morning and had an empty chair at the kitchen table because someone died of COVID? Considering Bidens lack of policy fixes and his affinity for shutdowns, it was an unconvincing bit. Bidens performance in the segment could be summed by this line: If I were running it, Id know what the plan is.

On the economy too, Biden failed to say much of substance. To kick it off, Chris Wallace noted that unemployment was already down to 8.4 percent and asked what Trumps and Bidens impression of the recovery was thus far. Trump again rambled, nevertheless making a semi-coherent argument about how lockdowns have all sorts of deleterious effects on the economy and peoples lives. Bidens rejoinder was that billionaires have thrived during the pandemic while the working class has struggled. That tends to be a winning point, but instead of articulating his own agenda, Biden awkwardly worked his Park Avenue vs. Scranton talking point into the discussion. After that, he spent his time attacking Trump on his tax returns instead of explaining his plan for helping Scranton. A few minutes later, he touched on his tax plan (he would raise them) before the discussion devolved into crosstalk. No one could possibly come away from the debate with a real understanding of what Bidens economic plan is.

Similarly, during the portion of the debate that focused on the candidates records, Biden was less able to point to specific accomplishments than the president was. Trump again mentioned the pre-coronavirus economy, his military rebuild, VA reforms, and judges. Biden declined to make an affirmative case for himself, instead asserting that under this president, we become weaker, sicker, poor, more divided and more violent. It was a strong line, but he got sidetracked first by his own pivot to calling the president Putins puppy and then by Trumps interruptions.

Trump also answered Wallaces questions on the environment more directly than Biden did. Asked if he believed that humans contribute to climate change, Trump said that he did. Asked why he then rolled back the Obama administrations Clean Power Plan, he said the plan raised energy prices. Oddly enough, the most comprehensive policy answer of the debate was Trumps summary of forest-management techniques. Bidens most substantive answers also came in this section, as he initially did a decent job summing up his green-energy plan, which includes billions of dollars of investment in jobs, installing electric car chargers on highways, and weatherizing 4 million buildings across the country.

However, Biden also asserted that the Green New Deal would pay for itself while insisting that he doesnt support it and that he has his own Biden Plan. This mess is further complicated by his own website  where the third paragraph of the The Biden Plan for a Clean Energy Revolution and Environmental Justice begins, Biden believes the Green New Deal is a crucial framework for meeting the climate challenges we face.

Post-debate, most pundits have spent their time chiding Trump for what they saw as boorish and sometimes appalling behavior. Initial polling seems to support their conclusion that Biden won round one. The more important takeaway, however, is that Biden is worried that the campaign will now focus more on issues and less on character and personality, which he see as his strong suit. On the economy, the coronavirus, foreign policy, and his 47-year record, Biden does not have a whole lot to say. This not only presents an opportunity for the Trump campaign, it also raises serious questions about what a Biden presidency would look like. With Election Day rapidly approaching, Americans deserve honest answers from Biden about his views on such matters as the Green New Deal and packing the Supreme Court.

If Joe Biden doesnt have to commit to any real policies  or even promise not to participate in a power grab as self-evidently destructive as court-packing  to win the presidency, he should at least do so for the good of the country.

More from National Review
Downing Street is the driving force behind proposals to hold refugees offshore

It has asked officials to consider the option of sending asylum seekers abroad

The centres could be built on the Isle of Wight, the Shetlands or the Isle of Man

Migrants could also be flown out to Morocco, Moldova or Papua New Guinea

There are also claims that Boris Johnson's top aides, including Dominic Cummings, are the targets of the briefing as Downing Street has been pushing heavily for the 'offshoring' policy

Friends of Priti Patel reacted with fury today over leaks claiming she was pushing ideas including processing asylum seekers thousands of miles from Britain.

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Reports have suggested the Home Secretary was looking at 'offshoring' refugees arriving in Britain in places including Ascension island and St Helena in the south Atlantic, Moldova in eastern Europe, Morocco and even Papua New Guinea.

Leaks now being investigated also suggested the Home Office had considered putting wave machines and a floating 'wall' in the Channel to stop migrant crossings in small boats and planned to house them on retired ferries.

Although the France-facing wave machine idea has been dismissed the department has consulted maritime industries on the plausibility of a floating barrage between England and the continent, the Financial Times reported. The idea of using ferries to house refugees is also being considered.

But Ms Patel has been left furious at slew of negative briefing about the plans to crack down on abuses, on the day the number of migrants entering the UK in 2020 reached 7,000.

There are also claims that Boris Johnson's top aides, including Dominic Cummings, are the targets of the briefing rather than Ms Patel, as Downing Street has been pushing heavily for the 'offshoring' policy.

Allies of the Home Secretary said she did not believe the negative briefing was coming from her department and sighted their guns on other parts of Government.

'People are having a bit of a free for all,' one said. 'There is a lot of briefing from the Cabinet Office. They have a task force (on offshoring) there.

They pointed out that much of the material was 'damaging to No10'. 'There are people who have spent the last three weeks going after the PM and now are going after his advisers.'

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Meanwhile Scottish leader Nicola Sturgeon lashed out at suggestions that some could be housed on Islands around Britain, including off the coast of Scotland.

Home Office Permanent Secretary Matthew Rycroft told MPs today that the Cabinet Office has launched an investigation into the leaks.

Marina with boats on the Solent at East Cowes, Isle of Wight. Migrants who land in Britain could be flown to hostels on the island

Migrants are currently being housed in Napier Barracks in Folkestone, Kent, which has been repurposed for them

New proposals are part of Priti Patel 's over-arching programme to crackdown on the Channel migrant crisis

2020 Channel migrant numbers hit 7,000 At least 7,000 migrants have managed to cross to the UK in small boats this year. Wednesday marked the 100th separate day when people have arrived in small boats in 2020, according to analysis by the PA news agency. Migrants crammed into unsafe dinghies have reached the UK from France on more than one in every three days, data shows. Immigration officials say screening centres are sometimes being 'overwhelmed' by the high numbers while staff remain conscious of the threat of Covid-19. Meanwhile, charities continue to call on the Home Office to provide safe and legal routes for asylum seekers to put an end to the perilous Channel crossings. In 2019, Home Secretary Priti Patel vowed to make such journeys an 'infrequent phenomenon', but UK law enforcement now believe the issue will be here for a while. A handful of people were seen arriving in Dover on Wednesday as migrants attempt the crossing before the weather worsens in autumn and winter. Wednesday marked the 100th separate day of 2020 where migrants have successfully crossed the Dover Strait to the UK in small boats, PA analysis shows. This means that people are successfully making the dangerous crossing more than once every three days. The number of migrants arriving each day is heavily weather-dependent, with fewer than 10 arrivals on some days and hundreds making it to Dover on others. In September alone, nearly 2,000 migrants reached the UK, more than the figure for the entirety of 2019. Immigration staff say the 'sheer volume' of migrant crossings in 2020 is 'unprecedented' and has presented significant challenges. Natalie Elphicke, MP for Dover and Deal, said: 'More needs to be done to bring an end to illegal trafficking and illegal migration. All options must be on the table to close down the route itself. 'The French must stop boats leaving in the first place, boats should be returned to France instead of bringing them into Britain, and we should return people who come in through these illegal routes, no ifs or buts.'

Asked at the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) whether he thought the investigation will take account of the timing of the leaks and whether they were politically motivated, he said: 'I'm sure they will look at all relevant factors.'

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The wave machine option plan was among 'blue sky' ideas looked at by officials to discourage migrants from trying to cross in small boats - although it was quickly rejected.

The government has been working on ways to overhaul the creaking asylum system and crack down on abuse.

Sources complained that already-dismissed proposals such as creating a processing site on Ascension Island, more than 4,000 miles from the UK, were being leaked by officials who 'don't like the whole concept'.

Ironically, a snap YouGov poll has found the public backed the idea of by a margin of 40 per cent to 35 per cent. However, that proposal has already been ditched.

An ally of the Home Secretary said 'offshoring' was being attacked by people who did not like it.

'It is a perfectly logical idea, but someone who doesn't like the whole concept said 'you can only do it if it happens 4,000 miles away' and leaked that,' they said.

The Isle of Wight proposal is understood to have 'problems', but other islands around the UK - including off the coast of Scotland - and old ferries are being seriously looked at.

'This is still very early days,' one source said.

Ms Sturgeon waded into the row today, saying: 'They can rest assured that any proposal to treat human beings like cattle in a holding pen will be met with the strongest possible opposition from me.'

Shadow home secretary Nick Thomas-Symonds added: 'The Tories are lurching from one inhumane and impractical idea to another.

'The idea of sending people to Ascension Island, creating waves in the English Channel to wash boats back and buying ferries and oil rigs to process asylum claims shows the Government has lost control and all sense of compassion.'

Mr Rycroft faced a grilling on the leaked plans when he faced MPs this morning.

Citing problems with the landing strips in St Helena and Ascension Island, PAC chairwoman Meg Hillier said the idea was 'in the realms of cloud cuckoo land', asking once more 'Can you just confirm whether or not civil service time was actually spent investigating something where you couldn't even land aircraft?'

Mr Rycroft said: 'What I can confirm is that the civil service has been responding to ministers' questions about how other countries deal with what is a global issue - migration.

'We have been leaving no stone unturned in doing that. We've been looking at what a whole host of other countries do in order to bring innovation into our own system. No decisions have been taken.

'No final proposals have been put to ministers or to anyone else.

'This is in the realm of the brainstorming stage of a future policy and, I think as ministers have said in the House, everything is on the table, and so it should be at this stage of the policy-making process.'

Official documents marked 'sensitive' and produced earlier this month, summarise advice from officials at the Foreign Office, which was asked by No10 to 'offer advice on possible options for negotiating an offshore asylum processing facility similar to the Australian model in Papua New Guinea and Nauru'.

Home Office aides have also been ordered to draw up feasibility studies for the hostel-type centres on islands within the British Isles.

It emerged yesterday that officials had previously looked at locating a centre on Ascension Island or St Helena, thousands of miles away in the South Atlantic.

However, using such distant British overseas territories was ruled impractical over costs and logistical problems. Now, proposals for asylum centres on islands closer to home will be drawn up.

Migrants could be processed on disused ferries moored off the coast under the plans being considered.

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Another option being considered is buying retired ferries and converting them into asylum-processing centres.

Boris Johnson is keen to deter migrants from making dangerous crossings from France with the proposals.

Meanwhile, The Times has been told that the Home Office held discussions about moving migrants to decommissioned oil platforms in the North Sea while their applications are processed.

However, ministers decided that it was a 'no go' .

According to the Financial Times, other 'blue sky' options discussed include laying booms, barriers or even small boats together in parts of the Channel to stop migrants reaching the shore.

Another option was to have boats with pumps generating waves in a bid to force boats back into French waters.

However, the possibility was rejected amid concerns migrants in already-overladen boats would be capsized.

The plan to move migrants to ships is thought more realistic and is being given serious consideration.

The Home Office's top civil servant Matthew Rycroft told the Public Accounts Committee: 'This is in the realms of a brainstorming stage of a future policy, everything is on the table'

The leaks have sparked another briefing war around Ms Patel - with echoes of the angry row in the run-up to Home Office permanent secretary Philip Rutnam quitting last year and launching an employment tribunal.

One Whitehall source told Playbook: 'There is a rotten core of civil servants who have never gotten over Brexit... and fear the hard rain that is coming. They're the enemy within and will be rooted out.'

Ms Patel is understood to believe the processing centres would deter migrants who hope to settle in UK towns and cities. 'Offshoring is still at the scoping stage and policy is yet to be decided,' said a Government source.

'But we are looking at all options to stop the small boats in the Channel, and offshoring is part of that. In terms of locations you could look at the Shetlands, the Isle of Wight, the Isle of Man, and those sorts of areas.

'There are also lots of little islands up by Scotland.'

The source added: 'This is all fairly down the track and it's not going to be an overnight thing. It will also require changes to legislation. And if we were going to build anything at any of these places we would have to ensure there are appropriate services and provisions for asylum seekers who are sent there.'

The source said any accommodation constructed on an island would not take the form of secure detention centres. 'We do not detain asylum seekers, they are free to come and go,' he said.

It comes after it was revealed last month that a former Second World War barracks in Folkestone, Kent was now being used by the Government to house up to 400 asylum seekers.

Opening the camp was intended to put out a discouraging message to anyone thinking of crossing the Channel illegally. The sparse conditions are very different from the comfortable accommodation complete with a 40 a week spending allowance some migrants have been given on arrival in Britain.

A group of people thought to be migrants are brought into Dover, Kent, by Border Force following a small boat incident in the Channel yesterday

Under a parallel project also being considered by the Government, asylum seekers who arrive in Britain could be flown out to processing centres in Morocco, Moldova or Papua New Guinea

Gibraltar, another British overseas territory, had been ruled out as a location because it is too small, it is understood.

The source added: 'We are looking at what other countries do in terms of offshoring asylum applications and what would be appropriate for us. Government departments including the Foreign Office were asked to look at options.

'Ascension Island was one of the places they came up with. But the Home Secretary does not think that location is feasible.

'Offshoring is something that was previously proposed by Tony Blair's government.' It is unclear how a Home Office asylum facility could be set up on the Isle of Man, which is self-governing.

Separately, leaked documents marked 'sensitive' revealed that Downing Street asked the Foreign Office to consider processing centres in Morocco, Moldova and Papua New Guinea at the direct suggestion of the Prime Minister.

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The three countries were specifically 'floated' by No 10, The Guardian reported. However, the Foreign Office identified a number of diplomatic and practical problems with the plan.
Vehicular movement on the busy stretch was also disrupted for a while due to the nuisance.  DC photo

Tensions prevailed for an hour on Thursday in Odisha's capital city Bhubaneswar after a youth held his mother to ransom in front of the State Assembly near Lower PMG Square, seeking actions against some corrupt ministers.

The youth identified as Jitendra Pal of Daspalla area in Nayagarh district appeared in front of the Assembly with his mother in the afternoon. All of a sudden, he brought out a knife hidden in his bag and grabbed his mother Jharana Pals neck declaring he would kill her if actions were not taken against "corrupt" ministers.

He threatened to slit his mother Jharanas throat if any police personnel approached him to rescue his mother.

Vehicular movement on the busy stretch was also disrupted for a while due to the nuisance.

Sources said Jitendra was accompanying his mother to a private hospital here in the city. As they were walking along the Sachivalaya Marg, he swooped on his mother and held the knife against her throat, threatening to kill her if his demands for actions against the minister were not met.

The youth was carrying some leaflets and was uttering names of some ministers and political leaders alleging corruption and harassment to the public.

While holding a knife against his mother's throat, he was heard screaming in English,Chief minister Naveen Patnaik is innocent. But his misters are corrupt. He mentioned the names of two ministers as the ones who are corrupt.

The cops adroitly managed the crisis and succeeded in rescuing the woman from his captivity.

Bhubaneswar Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Umashankar Dash praised the officers for rescuing the woman tactfully and said they would be rewarded for their intelligence.

The DCP also informed that the youth was sent to SCB Medical College and Hospital, Cuttack, as he was suffering from mental illness.

However, police detained the two after a while and took both of them to custody for questioning.

The youths mother said her son was mentally sick and was undergoing treatment for the past few years now.
The West African regional bloc Ecowas has "hinted" that sanctions against Mali "could soon be lifted", a tweet from the office of Mali's interim president says.



Ecowas imposed the punitive measures after the military overthrew President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita in August.



It had demanded the resumption of civilian rule, but despite a civilian president, Bah Ndaw, and prime minister, Moctar Ouane, being appointed, the sanctions are still in place.



Earlier this week, Nigeria's President Muhammadu Buhari said there were still some "grey areas" that needed to be worked out before relations could return to normal.



For instance, Mali's new vice-president is the former junta leader Colonel Assimi Goita, and Ecowas wants to make sure that he cannot become president.



Mr Ndaw is a former military officer and defence minister.

Source: BBC









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.

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There are about 180 babies born with sickle cell disease in Texas each year, and approximately 40 percent (70 children) are born in Houston.

The Houston Health Department said in a press release that of the estimated 100,000 Americans living with the condition, approximately 7,000 are Texans, and Houston has more diagnoses than in any other region.

Sickle cell disease is a rare genetic blood condition that ultimately causes organ damage, including severe episodes of pain that can last up to a week and can result in multiple hospitalizations throughout a lifetime.

Kennedy Cooper is one of the estimated 1,500 children in Houston living with the disease. In a blog post for Texas Children's Hospital, Cooper shared her journey, recalling moments where she felt ashamed to take medicine in front of friends and had to miss out on activities she loves because of her condition.

COVID IN PEOPLE OF COLOR: Texas' tallying method further confirms that COVID-19 is deadlier for Black and Hispanic people

"Its not really fun to take medicine in front of friends at sleepovers," she shared. "Ive tried countless techniques to avoid this, including sneaking my medicine bag into the bathroom while others were distracted or waiting until everyone was sleeping to take my medicine. Ive also had to turn down invitations to countless pool parties because the pool temperature was usually never warm enough for me."

She's able to shrug if off most of the time, "but sometimes you just cant help but notice how different you are from everybody else," she said.

Dr. Titilope Fasipe, chair of the Houston Sickle Cell Collaborative, is also a sickle cell patient. She was diagnosed at age 1, and wants every child to know that they can still lead a long, fulfilling life.

Im one of the ones who made it to adulthood and Im happy, but Im also respectful of the fact that so many more did not, and thats part of what pushes me at times, she said, as reported by KPRC Click2Houston's Haley Hernandez.

Fasipe said we need more research and treatments for "this devastating disease that affects so many people in our community."

If you want to learn more about the disease, the sickle cell collaborative and health department will host their 2020 Sickle Cell Advocacy Summit on October 8.
Farmworkers in Salinas Valley continue working, despite poor air quality caused by the wildfires. Photo: Maestra Carissa/Courtesy of Diocese of El Camino Real This wildfire season, combined with the COVID-19 pandemic, has created immense needs in vulnerable communities, said Tamara Plummer, Program Officer, Episcopal Relief & Development. Our partners are actively finding solutions to meet the unique needs in their communities.

Episcopal Relief & Development is partnering with the Episcopal dioceses of California, El Camino Real, Oregon and Northern California to provide emergency assistance such as N95 masks, food, clothing and shelter to people impacted by the wildfires in the western US.

The state of California has experienced over 8,100 wildfires so far this year, scorching over 3.8 million acres of land, destroying buildings, homes and infrastructure, and causing dangerous air quality issues. More than 1 million acres have burned in Oregon, forcing the evacuation of 80,000 people from their homes. Episcopal Relief & Developmentss US Disaster Program staff has been coordinating with partners in California, Oregon and Washington since mid-August as the dioceses monitored the impact of the wildfires in western states and developed response plans to provide assistance to marginalized communities.

This wildfire season, combined with the COVID-19 pandemic, has created immense needs in vulnerable communities, said Tamara Plummer, Program Officer, Episcopal Relief & Development. Our partners are actively finding solutions to meet the unique needs in their communities.

The Episcopal Diocese of Northern California is responding with assistance in communities where farmworkers and day laborers have been particularly affected by the wildfires and the economic effects of COVID-19. The diocese has developed a network of mental health professionals who are available for online counseling and support. Clergy and lay volunteers are providing aid in the form of food, gas, clothing, rental assistance and other emergency supplies to bridge gaps as the communities begin to recover.

With Episcopal Relief & Developments support, the Episcopal Diocese of California is distributing N95 masks in the San Francisco Bay area to individuals and families who are marginally housed or without homes and are therefore more vulnerable to COVID-19 and the smoke caused by the fires.

The Episcopal Diocese of El Camino Real is leveraging its connections to local communities to identify individuals and families who have lost their homes, whose homes have been damaged or who have lost income due to the wildfires. Diocesan staff and volunteers are supplying food, and clothing, as well as monetary assistance to cover gas, hotel bills, rent and utilities.

The Episcopal Diocese of Oregon, with Episcopal Relief & Developments assistance, is responding to provide physical and spiritual aid in communities throughout southern and western Oregon. English and Spanish-speaking clergy are offering emotional and mental health services and are assisting people in applying for FEMA benefits. Churches have transformed parish halls into temporary housing, with appropriate COVID-19 protections, to offer shelter to individuals and families who have had to evacuate their homes. The diocese is also distributing food and gift cards to cover emergency expenses such as gas, clothing, cleaning supplies and prescription medications.

Wildfires are unpredictable and must be contained before communities can begin to respond, so it often takes longer to reach the recovery phase of disasters, continued Plummer.

Learn more about the three stages of a disaster and what you can do. Donations to the US Disaster Response Fund will help Episcopal Relief & Development continue to provide support in communities impacted by disasters, both natural and human-made.

ABOUT EPISCOPAL RELIEF & DEVELOPMENT:

For over 75 years, Episcopal Relief & Development has been working together with supporters and partners for lasting change around the world. Each year the organization facilitates healthier, more fulfilling lives for more than 3 million people struggling with hunger, poverty, disaster and disease. Inspired by Jesus words in Matthew 25, Episcopal Relief & Development leverages the expertise and resources of Anglican and other partners to deliver measurable and sustainable change in three signature program areas: Women, Children and Climate.


Amid the countrywide outrage following the death of a young woman who was allegedly gang raped and brutalised by four men in UPs Hathras leading to her death, the district magistrate on Thursday appeared to raise doubts about the rape.

The victim, in her statement to the police, had named the four accused who were later arrested under Sections 376 D (gang rape) and 307 (attempt to murder) of the Indian Penal Code.

Talking about the medical examination report, Hathras district magistrate Praveen Kumar said there was no injury on the private parts of victim and samples had been sent to forensic science lab in Agra to establish conclusively whether or not it was an incident of gang rape.

The report from the forensic science lab in Agra may come in three days and it will make the picture clear, Kumar said even as the Special Investigation Team (SIT) reached Boolgarhi village in and began investigation into the gang rape case.

Senior IPS officer Bhagwan Swaroop, who is posted as secretary of home department, heads the SIT, which has been asked to submit its report within a week.

Two other members of SIT are deputy inspector general of police Chandra Prakash and Poonam (who goes by one name), the commandant of 15th Battalion of Provincial Armed Constabulary, Agra.

SIT headed by Bhagwan Swaroop and two other members reached Hathras. They were in the village on Thursday to interact with family members of the girl. The SIT is recording statements and has gone to the crime scene also, the Hathras district magistrate said.

Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code has been imposed in Hathras district and no unlawful assembly of people will be allowed, the district magistrate said. Section 144 prohibits assembly of four or more people.

The entry of journalists in the village was prohibited reportedly after some police personnel were found with Covid-19 symptoms.

We have asked these cops to get themselves tested and if they test positive, the village might be declared a containment zone. Thus, entry of outsiders, including media, has been stopped on apprehension of Covid-19, the Hathras DM said.

There were also reports that Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi set off on foot to meet the family of Hathras gang rape victim after the police stopped them on the Yamuna Expressway

citing prohibitory orders.

However, Kumar denied any information about the arrival of the two Congress leaders.

The 19-year-old Dalit woman, died in a Delhi hospital on Tuesday a fortnight after she was gang-raped at Hathras while she was out to collect fodder with her mother. She was cremated in the early hours of Wednesday, with her family alleging the local police forced them to conduct the last rites in the dead of the night.

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ST. JOHNS, N.L. - Newfoundland and Labrador is reporting one new case of COVID-19.

Health officials said today the new case involves a woman under the age of 40 who returned to the province from Alberta.

Authorities say the woman is in the central region of the province and has been isolating since she arrived.

The province says the new infection is not connected to the case reported Wednesday in Labrador.

That case involves a woman under 40 who travelled to the province from Saskatchewan as an essential health-care worker.

Newfoundland and Labrador has three active cases of COVID-19, and all are travel-related.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 1, 2020.
Political and business leaders in the north-west have called on residents to comply with new restrictions announced at Stormont on Thursday.

They also accepted, however, that the rules could hit the local economy hard.

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood said that following the regulations could save the lives of friends, family and neighbours.

"Everyone has made immense personal sacrifices to keep themselves and their families safe," the Foyle MP added.

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"People have lost mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters to this virus and have given up the chance to say a proper goodbye in many cases.

"People in the north-west have been very good at following the public health advice, even when it appeared confusing.

"But if we're honest, the cautious attitude we all took at the start has slipped.

"People aren't always wearing face masks in shops, unnecessary journeys have become routine again and compliance is not as good as it should be.

"The hard truth is that unless people change their behaviour immediately, we're going to lose more friends, neighbours and family members.

"These restrictions will be challenging.

"People in our communities are naturally sociable, entrepreneurial and active.

"But they (the rules) are absolutely necessary to relieve pressure on our health service and protect each other.

"Derry and Strabane has shown that it can step up when needed.

"It is now needed again and I know that people will do all that they can."

Colin Neill, chief executive of Hospitality Ulster said: "This will come as a shock but no surprise to the hospitality sector in the north-west, which has experienced the worst impact of this for over six months now.

"Public health and control of the coronavirus is the number one priority.

"But it will, without doubt, be a devastating blow to our sector at this critical time."

The Federation of Small Business described the restrictions as disappointing.

It also called on the Government to bring forward a support package for firms.

News of the tightening of restrictions in the Derry and Strabane council area came as it was learned that the city's Halloween festival was to be scaled back because of the health crisis, with the fireworks display scrapped entirely.

The annual event brings more than 100,000 people into the city every year and generates business worth more than 3m for local firms.

Foyle MLA Sinead McLaughlin said the cancellation of the fireworks was a major blow to the city and its economy.

"It's a very important festival, an important economic festival for the city and for all of its businesses," the SDLP woman told this newspaper.

"But at this moment in time, it is the right decision that the council has made.

"Every single hotel bed in the city is normally occupied over the Halloween period.

"It has a significant impact upon our hospitality and tourism sector, in particular, and also within retail.

"It is a blow, but it's a blow that has been made with safety in mind."

Derry and Strabane Mayor Brian Tierney said that while it was disappointing to have to scale back the festival, the council's decision was "a responsible and proportionate response to the current health situation".
Sylvester Stallones daughters, Sophia and Sistine, fondly reminisced about the 'beautiful life' of their grandmother, who passed away at the age of 98 last week.

During an episode of Heather Dubrows World on PodcastOne on Thursday, stunning sisters Sistine, 22, and Sophia, 24, discussed their relationship with the larger-than-life celebrity astrologer.

They told the 51-year-old former Real Housewives Of Orange County star that their grandma was still tap dancing and doing Pilates before her death.

Reflecting on good times: Sylvester Stallones daughters, Sophia and Sistine, fondly reminisced about the 'beautiful life' of their grandmother, who passed away at the age of 98 last week

Mother and son: The movie star and his mom at the Hollywood Women's Press Club's 57th Annual Golden Apple Awards in 1997 at the Beverly Hilton Hotel

Dubrow started the conversation by gushing she had met their grandmother years ago, and described her as 'fabulous' and 'fun.'

Sistine nodded eagerly, exclaiming, she 'certainly' was, before noting Jackie 'lived a long, beautiful life.'

Meanwhile, Sophia raved about their good genetics, since their father's mother was just one year and a month from turning 100.

A sad loss: During an episode of Heather Dubrows World on Thursday, the stunning sisters opened up about their relationship with the larger-than-life celebrity astrologer, who they revealed was still tap dancing and doing Pilates (Jackie Stallone seen in 2013)

'She was still tap dancing,' Sophia gushed, before her younger sister remarked their grandma was still 'very active.'

Sistine joked: 'The Stallone gene is something else!'

Dubrow listened and smiled, before telling the women that their grandma's longevity is 'good news' for them, before complimenting their large, close-knit family.

Sweet moment: After the 51-year-old former Real Housewives of Orange County star extended her condolences about Jackie Stallone's death to her guests, Sistine, 22, and Sophia, 24, shared some of their favorite memories

'What did you get from your grandma?' the podcast host asked.

'You know, it's so funny, when I was younger, every time I went over to her house, she had these little Beanie Babies, she collected,' Sistine recalled, before revealing she has about 50 of them in her room.

On a more reflective note, Sophia said her grandmother taught her she didn't have to have her entire life mapped out just yet.

The host: Dubrow listened and smiled, before telling the women that their grandmother's longevity is 'good news' for them, before commenting on the dynamics of their large, close-knit family

'You have your whole life to be old,' Sistine quipped, of what her grandmother would always remind them.

Additionally, the 47 Meters Down: Uncaged star and her sister said Jackie would advise them to 'slow down' and 'enjoy' their youth.

The women's uncle, Frank Stallone, announced the news of Jackie's death with a Facebook post last Monday, revealing she 'died in her sleep as she had wished.'

Tribute: In a post shared to Instagram, Frank stated that Jackie 'died in her sleep as she had wished' on Monday morning

The 70-year-old Grammy Award winner also wrote that Jackie 'was a remarkable woman' who worked out 'everyday' and was 'full of spunk and fearless.'

'It was hard not to like her, she was very eccentric and flamboyant person.'

Frank provided some impressive details regarding his mother's life, including that she 'lived through prohibition, the depression and World War II.'

Sons: She also leaves behind sons Sylvester, 74, and Frank, 70; Jackie, Sylvester and Frank pictured in 2019

'I would talk to her for hours about the 20's 30's and 40's. It was a history lesson. Her mind was as sharp as a razor till the day she died.

'She never wore a mask a true revolutionary gal. I guess I'm drowning my emotions in tears and to much vino. But when you've known someone for 70 yrs it tough and sad.'

Frank informed his following that Jackie 'had seven grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren' and that his older brother Sylvester 'took care of her like a Queen for all of her life.'

Jackie also leaves behind husband of over two-decades Stephen Marcus Levine.

Tribute: 'I would talk to her for hours about the 20's 30's and 40's. It was a history lesson. Her mind was as sharp as a razor till the day she died,' Frank wrote

Jackie is known for appearing in the popular Richard Simmons Silver Foxes exercise tapes, which provided low-impact exercise routines for senior citizens.

But Jackie's biggest passion was astrology, having written a famous book on the subject titled Star Power: An Astrological Guide to Supersuccess, which was published in 1989.

She studied astrology for 15-years under the supervision of a plethora of acclaimed astrologers, including the 'protegees of Evangeline Adams, the greatest astrologer of the Twentieth Century.'

Hollywood life: The eccentric socialite, who boasts over 26,000 followers on the platform, achieved internet fame for her ultra Hollywood lifestyle and her youthful demeanor; Jackie pictured in July

Up until her death, Jackie could be seen engaging in weight lifting exercises, which she often filmed and uploaded to her Instagram page.

She would also refer to herself as Mamma Rambo, Mamma Stallone and Mamma Rocky as a way of paying homage to her Sylvester's most legendary roles.

The eccentric socialite, who boasts over 26,000 followers on the platform, achieved internet fame for her ultra Hollywood lifestyle and her incredibly youthful demeanor.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 19:11:04|Editor: huaxia

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RAMALLAH, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas announced that holding the elections in Palestine will be decided after an agreement with the Palestinian factions is reached, official Palestinian news agency WAFA reported on Thursday.

Abbas made the announcement during a telephone conversation late on Wednesday night with Josep Borrell, the high representative of the European Union for foreign affairs and security policy.

The president informed Borrell that as soon as an agreement is reached with the Palestinian factions, including the Islamic Hamas movement, "a date for holding the parliamentary elections will be announced" and presidential elections will be held afterward.

Palestinian officials had earlier said that Abbas would hold an online meeting soon with representatives of 14 Palestinian factions to announce a reconciliation agreement that includes setting a date for holding the general elections in Palestine.

The Palestinians held the last presidential elections in 2005, when Abbas succeeded late Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat. In 2006, Hamas won the parliamentary elections held in the Palestinian territories.

Meanwhile, the WAFA reported that Abbas also briefed Borrell on the latest political developments in the region and preparing for holding an international conference for peace in the Middle East this year. Enditem
UP: Elections not won on exit polls basis, results will be surprising: Kamal Nath

Hathras gang-rape case: Akhilesh Yadav slams Centre, says BJP is showing its true colours

India

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New Delhi, Oct 01: Samajwadi Party president and former chief minister Akhilesh Yadav slammed the government over the death of Hathras gangrape victim on Thursday.

"Hathras victim's family severally beaten on the order of the government. Now the people will ensure the government is brought to justice. People are seeing the way BJP's misrule is revealing its true colours. The wicked will be unveiled soon," Yadav's tweet read (roughly translated from Hindi).

Hospital report doesnt confirm rape says Hathras SP

Meanwhile, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati said that criminals, mafias and rapists are having a free run under the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led Uttar Pradesh government after a gang-rape case was reported from Balrampur, following closely on the heels of the Hathras incident.

Hathras sealed ahead of Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi's visit|Oneindia News

She demanded that the Centre impose President's Rule in the state as the Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath-led government had failed to protect the women in the state.

Hathras gang-rape: Mamata Banerjee terms 'forceful' cremation of victim's body as 'shameful'

"After Hathras incident, I hoped the Uttar Pradesh government will take action against people committing crimes against women. But a similar crime has been committed against a Dalit student in Balrampur. Under BJP's UP government, criminals, mafias and rapists are having a free run," Mayawati told reporters.

The BSP chief said that the incidents had shaken her to the core and therefore she had decided to talk to the media, "in an attempt to wake up the Centre if the UP government isn't waking up."
Local people experience calligraphy during a medley of traditional Chinese cultural activities held in Lower Hutt library, Wellington, New Zealand, Sept. 30, 2020, to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival, which falls on Oct. 1 this year. (Xinhua/Guo Lei)
West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday expressed her shock at the Hathras gang-rape and murder case, saying she has no words to condemn the barbaric and shameful incident.

Banerjee further slammed the alleged forceful cremation of the victim by the Uttar Pradesh police. Have no words to condemn the barbaric and shameful incident at Hathras involving a young Dalit girl. My deepest condolences to the family. More shameful is the forceful cremation without the familys presence or consent, exposing those who use slogans and lofty promises for votes, she tweeted.

Have no words to condemn the barbaric & shameful incident at Hathras involving a young Dalit girl. My deepest condolences to the family.

More shameful is the forceful cremation without the familys presence or consent, exposing those who use slogans & lofty promises for votes.  Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) October 1, 2020

The 19-year-old girl was sexually assaulted and tortured by four men from her village on September 14. After battling for life for nearly two weeks, she breathed her last at Delhis Safdarjung Hospital on Tuesday.

However, there was fresh controversy on Wednesday as family members of the girl alleged that the UP police forcibly cremated her in the early hours of the day, a charge that has been denied by the administration.

Under fire over the horrific crime, chief minister Yogi Adityanath has set up a three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the case. The team will submit its report within seven days. The case will also be tried in a fast-track court.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, too, has spoken to the chief minister and directed that strictest action be taken against the culprits.

All four accused, meanwhile, have been arrested by the police.
In the final leg of 2020, does the market have what it takes to reach a record high? If you ask J.P. Morgan, the answer is yes.

According to strategist Dubravko Lakos-Bujas, the S&P 500s earnings are bouncing back more quickly than expected thanks to the Federal Reserves accommodative monetary policy, global reopenings and long-term tech plays. He argues this earnings trend could power the indexs rally to a record 3,600, reflecting a 6% gain from current levels.

Tech is the key here. Although the space has had a rough going recently, the strategist sees the latest pullback as healthy," noting that tech names are still relatively insulated from COVIDs economic impact. Tech profits could also potentially help offset earnings weakness in the broader market.

As for COVID-19 sensitive companies, Q2 likely marked the bottom with earnings to see a sustained recovery as the economy rebounds, and consumer and corporate behavior gradually normalize, Lakos-Bujas commented. Whats more, the firm expects improving demand and falling interest costs to drive a rebound in S&P 500 companies margins, with a full recovery potentially coming by the second half of 2021.

Bearing this in mind, we wanted to take a closer look at three stocks that have earned J.P. Morgans stamp of approval. Accompanying a bullish rating, the firms analysts believe each could climb at least 60% higher in the year ahead. Running the tickers through TipRanks database, we got all the details and learned what makes them such compelling plays.

PDC Energy (PDCE)

First up we have PDC Energy, which is the second largest oil and gas producer in the DJ Basin and has significant scale (182,000 net acres). Based on its standing in the space, J.P. Morgan is pounding the table on this name.

Firm analyst Arun Jayaram sees the company as one of the positioned operators among the small to mid-cap E&Ps given that it pairs a strong free cash flow profile and relatively clean balance sheet with a cheap multiple. Out of all the names in the firms E&P coverage universe, PDCE trades at the lowest 2021 EBITDA multiple and has the highest free cash flow yield.

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Additionally, even though Colorado politics presents challenges given that its a purple state, or a swing state, the analyst believes these headwinds can be overcome.

In our view, the stock appears to be discounting a significant haircut to its undrilled inventory from regulatory headwinds in Colorado consistent with the implementation of hard 2,000 ft. setback rules. While we dont expect potentially restrictive political measures in Colorado to go away, we see the current ~2.6x discount as too punitive, with just a half turn re-rate providing ~40% upside to shares, Jayaram commented.

The analyst argues that the stock presents investors with a rare opportunity to snap up a name at a discount to PDP value. Shares are currently changing hands for only 73% of Jayarams PDP estimates, based on recent strip pricing.

We view this as a compelling risk-reward given the growing likelihood the State could enforce soft 2,000 ft. setbacks that would still provide PDCE with the ability to tap the lions share of its undrilled DJ Basin inventory, albeit with additional administrative hurdles in the permit process that could modestly raise the cost of doing business, the analyst stated.

It should be noted that PDCE has approximately 400 DUCs or permitted wells in the DJ Basin, which could serve to buffer the operational risk for several years and provide leeway for the company to successfully navigate the changes to the permitting process, in Jayarams opinion.

With the significant dislocation from the value of the underlying asset base, Jayaram gives PDCE a place on J.P. Morgan's U.S. Equity Analyst Focus List as a value pick.

It should come as no surprise, then, that Jayaram sides with the bulls. To this end, he puts an Overweight rating and $23 price target on the stock. Investors could be pocketing a gain of 93%, should this target be met in the twelve months ahead. (To watch Jayarams track record, click here)

Are other analysts in agreement? They are. Only Buy ratings, 11, in fact, have been issued in the last three months. Therefore, the verdict is unanimous: PDCE is a Strong Buy. Given the $21.50 average price target, shares could jump 80% in the next year. (See PDCE stock analysis on TipRanks)

GeoPark (GPRK)

Moving on to another player in the energy game, GeoPark is a leading independent oil and gas company with oil and gas assets in Chile, Colombia, Brazil, Peru and Argentina. With a solid asset base in Colombia, which accounts for 81% of its production, J.P. Morgan sees big things in store for this oil play.

Writing for the firm, analyst Ricardo Rezende opined: We recommend GPRK for investors looking for exposure to oil prices... we think the stock reflects long-term oil prices at $50/barrel (bbl), in line with the current the forward curve.

In addition, the companys portfolio management approach to its assets (operations must be self-funding and prove their value on a standalone basis) and the fact that it recently grouped its operations into two segments, could help the company rein in costs  an additional positive, especially in a low oil price environment, according to Rezende.

That being said, Rezende argues most of GeoParks current  and future  value lies in its Colombian operations. Llanos-34, its best asset, is located in the country. This asset saw an average production of 26kboed in Q2 2020, with it also holding roughly 71% of net proved reserves.

GPRK has made a significant effort to expand its exposure to the areas around Llanos 34, with its holdings in the area now totaling over 1.4 million acres. As part of these efforts, it acquired five exploration blocks in partnership with Hocol (Ecopetrol), agreed with Parex to assume a 50% working interest in the Llanos 94 block and acquired Amerisur, an independent E&P whose most relevant block (CPO-5) is in the vicinity of Llanos 34.

The latter acquisition is the key to the companys success, in Rezendes opinion, as it opened a new exploration region for GeoPark: Putumayo, a region closer to the border with Ecuador.

Expounding on this, the analyst stated, Llanos 34 and its vicinities, in our view, are much more important drivers to GeoParks investment case than any other blocks the company has a stake in. Also, a successful exploration campaign in areas that GeoPark recently incorporated and the ramp-up on CPO-5 are the other relevant triggers in the area. We see production in Colombia reaching 39.8 kbpd in 2023, compared to 28.5kbpd in 2018.

All of this prompted Rezende to rate GPRK an Overweight (i.e. Buy) along with a $16 price target. This target conveys his confidence in GPRKs ability to soar 119% in the next year. (To watch Rezendes track record, click here)

Looking at the consensus breakdown, 2 Buys and no Holds or Sells have been published in the last three months. Therefore, GPRK gets a Moderate Buy consensus rating. Based on the $13.60 average price target, shares could surge 85% in the next year. (See GeoPark stock analysis on TipRanks)

iTeos Therapeutics (ITOS)

Making our way to the healthcare sector, iTeos Therapeutics is focused on the discovery and development of a new generation of highly differentiated immuno-oncology therapeutics. With its development pipeline boasting significant potential, J.P. Morgan thinks that now is the time to get in on the action.

Its two lead candidates, EOS-850 (an A2AR antagonist) and EOS-448 (an anti-TIGIT antibody), are targeting key mechanisms of cancer immunosuppression, and are in development alone as well as with other therapeutic combinations.

The A2A receptor, a key signaling component within the immunosuppressive ATP-adenosine pathway, has been shown to modulate immune responses in pathological conditions. As for the T-cell immunoreceptors with immunoglobulin (Ig) and ITIM domains (TIGIT) program, it is another receptor that certain cancer types use to sustain tumor growth.

Weighing in for J.P. Morgan, 5-star analyst Anupam Rama wrote: We acknowledge that development in the adenosine and TIGIT classes are competitive with the likes of multiple large pharma/biotechs and SMID biotechs; that said, we still see iTeos as having multiple value-creating levers with both EOS-850 and EOS-448.

These include the potential for the molecules to differentiate themselves over time within a particular target class. EOS-850 has demonstrated a differentiated PK/PD profile pre-clinically, with early responses looking encouraging. Based on this solid data, a Phase 1/2 trial was initiated for EOS-850 in patients with advanced solid tumors, both as monotherapy and in combination with standard of care therapies. Dose escalation in the combination arms of the study is expected to begin in Q3 2020, and data from the dose expansion monotherapy cohort is expected in 1H21. Rama sees these readouts as capable of driving major upside.

It should also be noted that a new formulation of EOS-850 with improved dissolution properties and good absorption under high pH conditions is expected to be available for a clinical bridging study in Q1 2021, with completion potentially coming in Q2 2021. Assuming a net initial price of $12,000 per cycle of therapy, Rama estimates peak global sales of $2-2.5 billion by 2039.

Additionally, EOS-448 has shown high binding affinity and that it actively engages FcyR, based on preclinical data. A Phase 1/2a study is now underway for EOS-448 in patients with advanced solid tumors, and preliminary results from the escalation phase are slated for release in 1H21, another potential catalyst, according to Rama. For this therapy, Rama believes peak sales could land at $3 billion.

From current levels, execution on one product across a few indications or a combination of both products in more select go-forward indications has the potential to create meaningful value (via probability of success increase and/or peak revenue increases), Rama said.

Whats more, both therapies are wholly owned by ITOS, which leaves the potential for future strategic interest in both assets pending evolution of data, in Ramas opinion. On top of this, both assets have shown signals of activity in interesting but less-competitive indications.

Everything that ITOS has going for it convinced Rama to keep an Overweight (i.e. Buy) rating on the stock. Along with the call, he attaches a $40 price target, suggesting 61% upside potential. (To watch Ramas track record, click here)

Turning now to the rest of the Street, other analysts echo Ramas sentiment. 4 Buys and no Holds or Sells add up to a Strong Buy consensus rating. At $45, the average price target is more aggressive than Ramas and implies 81% upside potential. (See ITOS stock analysis on TipRanks)

To find good ideas for stocks trading at attractive valuations, visit TipRanks Best Stocks to Buy, a newly launched tool that unites all of TipRanks equity insights.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the featured analysts. The content is intended to be used for informational purposes only. It is very important to do your own analysis before making any investment.
LONDON, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Sinja Stadelmaier of disruptive feminine care business The Female Company has been named the top of her field in the 2020 Business Worldwide Magazine (BWM) CEO Awards.

The Awards seek to identify and honor the Most Respected C-level executives across the globe from a variety of different sectors. The awards themselves do not focus on a company's success, as many do, but the spotlight is on the success of individuals who make the corporations tick- namely senior executives such as CEOs, Managing Directors, Directors and senior-level management. The intention is to give a worthy individual the recognition he/she deserves as well as to use their example to inspire other companies and business leaders to achieve similar success.

Sinja, who was the outright winner in her category, 'Best CEO - Organic and Natural Feminine Care Industry', spoke to BWM about the company's achievements so far, and why its work is so important.

The Female Company has made huge strides in what has been traditionally considered a notoriously challenging business area - period products. Periods affect around 50% of the world's population, yet the subject is still seen as taboo. Other Important issues such as the tampon tax and the increased use of plastics in feminine hygiene products have also highlighted the fact that periods are an unavoidable part of life, with a far-reaching impact. Women like Sinja Stadelmaier are leading a revolution that's all about challenging the way we think about periods; making quality, environmentally friendly female care products available to all.

Born and raised in a small town just outside of Stuttgart, Germany, Sinja met the company's co-founder at university and they have been on a mission to make life better for women ever since. They soon discovered huge issues in the industry, including the fact that many women in Germany (and around the world) are unable to afford suitable sanitary products, adding to the shame and discomfort associated with periods.

The Female Company has been at the forefront of major campaigns, leading to the reduction of tampon tax from 19% to 7% in Germany, as well as producing products that are better for the female body and the environment. Their period products, which include tampons, bandages, panty liners and menstrual cups, are made from certified organic cotton, with no harmful chemicals or pesticides, and produced to high social standards. The overall effect is the creation of products that are attractive, honest and kind - not shameful necessities to be hidden away.

The award Best CEO - Organic and Natural Feminine Care Industry is the first of its kind. Sinja told BWM what it means to her to be the outright winner in the category. "Our vision is to empower women to be proud in their womanhood and I honestly could not be more proud to be the first to win the award in the category of feminine hygiene industry with The Female Company."

To find out more about The Female Company visit https://www.thefemalecompany.com/

An article on the company can be found on the BWM website: https://www.bwmonline.com/2020/08/17/the-female-company-breaking-down-an-age-old-taboo/

Further information about the Business Worldwide Magazine CEO Awards 2020 visit https://www.bwmonline.com/awards/ceo-awards-2020-winners/

About Business Worldwide Magazine



Business Worldwide Magazine is the leading source of business and dealmaker intelligence throughout the world. Our quarterly magazine and online news portal enables an established audience of corporate dealmakers to track the latest news, stories and developments affecting the international markets, corporate finance, business strategy and changes in legislation. This readership includes of CEO/CFO - Banks, Corporate Lawyers and Venture Capital/Private Equity Companies to name a few.

Contact

David Jones

Awards Department

E: david@bwmonline.com
Some cities, notably Marseille, are already on the list. Paris so far has avoided further restrictions since a lockdown was lifted in mid-May. But Veran said that in the last 24 hours, the capital crossed multiple thresholds that make it a maximum-risk environment: The transmission rate has risen above 250 cases per 100,000, and the percentage of those whove tested positive for the novel coronavirus who require intensive care is now hovering between 30 and 35 percent.
Parliamentary candidate for the Ayawaso East constituency, Peter Mireku has urged the people of Ayawaso North and East to vote massively for him and Alhaji Manaf to bring development to their doorstep.



Speaking at the Kawukudi park on Wednesday on the second day of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumias four-day tour of the Greater Accra, Hon. Mireku urged the constituents not to waste their votes on the opposition NDC, stressing the NPP government is poised to continue its good works for the Zongos.



He added that comparatively, the Ayawaso West Wuogon and Central have seen massive changes, hence calling on residents in Ayawaso North and East to do same.





Source: Pious Baidoo Banson/Peace FM News









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.

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WASHINGTONSenate Republicans sought on Wednesday to promote their efforts to rewrite the narrative of the Trump-Russia investigation before Election Day, using a hearing with former FBI Director James Comey to cast doubt on the entire inquiry by highlighting problems with a narrower aspect of it.

Led by Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, Republicans on the Senate Judiciary Committee spent hours burrowing into mistakes and omissions made by the FBI when it applied for court permission to wiretap former Trump campaign adviser Carter Page in 2016 and 2017. Republicans drew on that flawed process to renew their claims that Comey and his agents had acted with political bias, ignoring an independent review that debunked the notion of a plot against President Donald Trump.

Comey, who testified by video from his home, rejected the Republicans conclusions and pointed to the findings of that review by the Justice Departments inspector general, Michael E. Horowitz, who detailed the mistakes in the applications for permission to eavesdrop on Page but concluded that there was no evidence they stemmed from political bias.

In the main, it was done by the book, it was appropriate and it was essential that it be done, Comey said of the Russia inquiry.

But Republicans seized on dubious intelligence disclosed a day earlier by the Trump administration to accuse Comey of ignoring what they portrayed as a plot by Democrats to trick FBI investigators into targeting the Trump campaign in the first place and then weaponize the inquiry on the campaign trail.

Im beginning to understand there was a two-tiered system here, Graham said. When it came to Trump, there were no rules, plow ahead, ignore everything, lie if you need to, alter documents. When it came to Clinton, it seems to be a completely different standard.

The hearing was the latest action by Graham to undercut the Russia inquiry. Working with Attorney General William Barr and John Ratcliffe, director of national intelligence, he has disclosed declassified records that cast investigators in a sinister light but that Democrats say are distorted selections.

Trump, who fired Comey in May 2017 after the FBI director refused to say publicly that the president was not under investigation for his ties to Russia, promoted the attacks, writing on Twitter shortly after the hearing that Comey should be arrested on the spot! for defending the investigation. Hours later, he added that Comey was a disaster who cheated and lied and should be tried for treason.

Comey readily conceded that the applications were sloppy and testified that he would not have signed off on them knowing what he does now.

Its embarrassing. Its sloppy. Ive run out of words, Comey said.

But he insisted that the wiretap of Page, a relatively junior aide who had left the campaign before the FBI secured a court order to wiretap him based on suspicions about his ties to Russia, was a slice of the larger effort to determine whether Trump and his team were conspiring with Russias election interference operations. And he angered Republicans by repeatedly saying he could not remember details of the case.

With all due respect, Mr. Comey, you dont seem to know anything about an investigation that you ran, said an irate Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah.

The hearing was the committees third in recent months to scrutinize the investigation, and Graham intends to call Comeys former deputy, Andrew McCabe, to testify next week.

Graham, who is locked in his own unexpectedly tight reelection fight, insisted that he would keep going until one of the most corrupt investigations in modern history was exposed and officials involved were either fired or go to jail. A former FBI lawyer has pleaded guilty to falsifying a document used in preparations for the warrant application. He was prosecuted as part of another ongoing review of the investigation, led by John H. Durham, a federal prosecutor Barr appointed.

During the hearing, Graham released a letter from the Justice Department, stating that an unnamed low-level department lawyer who had signed the warrant application also now regretted it and claimed the FBI had withheld key facts.

Republicans were most animated by the FBIs use in the warrant applications of a dossier of unverified information compiled by a British former spy, Christopher Steele. Steeles work was funded, in part, by Democrats, and it drew from information provided by a Russian source who Republicans said could have been spreading misinformation. Agents relied on the dossier in part to secure court permission for the Page wiretaps, while sharing few details with the court about its provenance.

But if Republicans had hoped to use Comey to score political points, Democrats sought his help backing up their criticisms of Trump and Barr.

Comey said he had no idea what on earth Barr meant by saying the FBI lacked sufficient reason to begin investigating the Trump campaign. He accused Barr of acting at odds with the nature of the department to remain outside the political fray.

When the attorney general starts acting like the personal lawyer for the president, it threatens that, and that is a priceless thing, Comey said.

The former director also took on the most direct claim related to the investigation that Republicans have levelled against former Vice President Joe Biden, the Democratic nominee for president.

Comey denounced an unfounded assertion pushed by Republicans  including Trump at the first presidential debate Tuesday  that in an Oval Office meeting in the final days of the Obama administration, Biden came up with the legal theory for prosecuting Trumps former national security adviser Michael Flynn, who twice pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI about his contacts with the Russian ambassador.

The Justice Department has released handwritten FBI notes that Trump and his allies claim as supporting evidence. But former FBI officials say Republicans are misrepresenting the notes and taking them out of context.

Comey, who attended the meeting, said that Biden had played no role in directing the investigation. I would remember it because itd be highly inappropriate for a president or vice president to suggest prosecution or investigation of anyone  and it did not happen, Comey said.

Graham spent much of the hearing building his case around the unverified intelligence made public by Ratcliffe, in an apparent bid to help Trump politically. The years-old intelligence, rejected by other investigators, suggested that Russian intelligence officers had acquired information that Hillary Clinton had approved a plan for her 2016 campaign to elevate concerns about Trumps ties to Russia.

Comey said he was not aware of the intelligence. I have read Mr. Ratcliffes letter, which frankly I have trouble understanding, he said.
Anarchy! Violence! Destruction! All the talk of how American cities are turning into hellscapes is a good reminder that, truly, there is nothing new under the sun.

This vein of cultural imagination has a history. In fact, it long predates the nation itself. The medieval poet Dante located the deepest, darkest circles of hell entirely inside city gates. Satan was not only The Emperor of the Universe of Pain. He was the ruler of hells metropolis.

A metropolis was hard to find in the United States prior to the Civil War. Cities were small and in most cases run by wealthy white Protestants, who loved urban America before they left it. Their change of heart was driven, first and foremost, by their inability to see an unprecedented influx of European immigrants as anything other than a dire threat to American democracy. In 1885 leading minister Josiah Strong sounded the alarm about the dangerous classes, writing, It goes without saying, that there is a dead-line of ignorance and vice in every republic, and when it is touched by the average citizen, free institutions perish.

Thirty years later the pugnacious revival preacher Billy Sunday homed in on the nations largest city and delivered one of his signature punches. There is little hope that the Lord ever will be able to save such a hell hole as New York, Sunday informed the crowd at the Philadelphia Tabernacle in the dead of winter 1915. He heaped on a laundry list of pejorative adjectives for good measure: rotting, corroding, corrupt, hell-ridden, God-defying, devil-ridden. The next week The New York Times published a response by a woman worried that Sundays comments would only deepen the belief of the average American citizen that Nineveh, Sodom, and Gomorrah had nothing on little old New York.

A Religious Outpouring

Such beliefs have, in fact, proven hard to shake. Over the course of the 20th century the image of the godforsaken city never went entirely out of fashion. In the wake of this summers urban protests it is, in some circles, back in vogue. As a result, while historian Jon Butlers latest book, God in Gotham: The Miracle of Religion in Modern Manhattan, focuses on a bygone era (the 1880s1960s), it could not feel timelier.

Butler offers overwhelming evidence that even New Yorkers could not flee from Gods presence. Most did not try. Instead, some decorated Manhattans streets with ornate churches and synagogues, while others turned homes and rented rooms into worship spaces. Attorney Street on the Lower East Side was a noteworthy case in point: Though only four blocks long, by 1930 it was home to more than fifty Jewish congregations only two of which met in synagogues, Butler writes. Religious content crowded the citys newspaper columns and saturated its airwaves too. Nearly everywhere one looked, the Big Apple was shot through with the sacred. Religion resonated throughout the worlds most populous place, Butler observes, sacralizing every kind of space and linking faith to the press of modern life.

The durability of faith defied the expectations of more than just the citys sanctimonious detractors. A sprawling scholarly literature on secularization long insisted that modernity spelled certain doom for religion. This theory eventually ran aground on a stubborn fact: In many of even the most urbane places, the predicted disenchantment never came. For Butler, Manhattan is in part a case study underscoring this larger point. The likes of Max Weber and William James misjudged the resilience of modern religion and mistook what its emerging textures and energies could mean, he argues.

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But it is not merely a case study. A vein of what one might call Manhattan exceptionalism runs through the book. Chicagoans may be inclined to jump out of their seats at Butlers assertion that the Windy City approached Manhattans complexity but did not achieve it. But if they can manage to keep reading, they may, by the end, concede that he has a point when he writes that between the 1920s and the 1960s Manhattan stimulated an outpouring of individual and institutional religious creativity unsurpassed in any other twentieth-century American locale, urban or rural.

Butlers evidence includes the contributions of some of the extraordinary Protestant, Catholic, and Jewish leaders who called Manhattan home. A handful grew up there, but many more emigrated from afar. Collectively, their work and witness reverberated not only across but also far beyond the borough. Intellectuals such as Paul Tillich, Reinhold Niebuhr, and Jacques Maritain transformed the way that countless believers understood the meaning of Christianity for the modern world. Activists such as Dorothy Day and ministers such as Adam Clayton Powell and Adam Clayton Powell Jr. sparked momentous, faith-infused movements for economic and racial justice. Meanwhile, Abraham Joshua Heschels legacy sprung from both his pen and his feet. On the way to becoming the nations best-known rabbi, he published a variety of influential books even while marching alongside civil-rights and antiwar demonstrators.

Faith in Institutions

Butler offers windows into the lives of these luminaries and many more, but he does not rest his case for Manhattan there. As he points out, These figures seldom worked alone; institutions extended and deepened their messages. This sentence encapsulates one of God in Gothams most unfashionable and yet, at least in the view of this reader, highly persuasive arguments. While acknowledging the prevalent view of institutional history as unsexy and boring, Butler counters that this perspective ignores the real dynamism between common worshipers and religious institutions. This back-and-forth shaped the life of organizations ranging from Harlems Abyssinian Baptist Church to the now-ubiquitous Alcoholics Anonymous. Butlers commitment to pursuing this institutional angle of vision springs in part from the documentary record, where he finds all kinds of evidence that, in modern Manhattan, religion was as much institutional and bureaucratic as theological.

But there is an unmistakable normative dimension to this emphasis too. While New Yorks religious institutions had grievous faultsillustrated, for one, by the way that so many white-led churches capitulated to Jim Crowthey were not merely imperfect, Butler contends. They were moreover pliant and soulful. Not only were they supple enough to further many worshipers aspirations; they were, in his estimation, the instruments through which most New Yorkersmost Americansapproached God. In our moment, so awash in anger with institutions, Butlers more sanguine evaluation of them will give readers much to ponder.

Readers should find plenty to debate as well. In recovering the vital role of institutions, does Butler overstate the extent to which religious power in Manhattan flowed from the top down? However much Protestant leaders busied themselves managing their worshipers and however rigidly hierarchical the Catholic church could be, the might of real and prospective pew dwellers remained more formidable than he at points lets on. When they got organized and flexed their muscle in theological, social, and political fights, the clergyperennially anxious about cash flow and influenceoften took heed, however begrudgingly. More sustained attention to the grassroots might have yielded a somewhat different cast of characters too. While Butler underscores the reality that women predominated among the laity, ordained men nevertheless command most of the leading roles in his story.

Article continues below

A Colorful Tour

If there is much here to ponder and debate, there is even more to enjoy. What a pleasure it is to take a tour of Manhattans sacred past led by one of the nations preeminent religious historians. The experience comes complete with a chance to duck down into the subway, an extended visit to Harlem, and briefer stops in many other neighborhoods. Along the way Butler showcases his ear for the most colorful turns of phrase, including fundamentalist minister John Roach Stratons proclamation that he hoped his churchs radio broadcast facility would be so efficient that when I twist the devils tail here in New York his squawk will be heard across the continent. Butler has an eye, too, for the most captivating photographs. One could while away an afternoon just taking in the images included in these pages.

Butler sends the reader out with a conclusion that is far more than a summary of what has gone before. Carrying the story forward in time and outward in space to the New York and New Jersey suburbs, he frames a final provocation, beautifully conveyed in this evocative sentence: Without the urban encounter, suburban religion would have failed as quietly as seed cast in drought.

In gesturing toward such connections, Butler offers yet one more reason why contemporary Americans might want to ask hard questions the next time they hear someone declaiming against urban places. The worlds of the city, the suburbs, and beyond are more interdependent than we sometimes think. And an unrelenting pursuit of the divine is common to them all.

Heath W. Carter is an associate professor of American Christianity at Princeton Theological Seminary and the author of Union Made: Working People and the Rise of Social Christianity in Chicago (Oxford University Press).
The Vietjet Air flight VJ963 from Incheon International Airport that landed at the Tan Son Nhat International Airport was the second inbound flight permitted by aviation authorities after the Vietnamese government last month green-lighted the resumption of commercial flights to and from seven Asian destinations.

After completing immigration procedures, over 100 of the 158 passengers on the flight refused to proceed to hotels for the mandated 14-day quarantine, angrily protesting what they said was a discrepancy in the rates mentioned before and after arrival. A demand by some that the hotels allow four people in a room was refused as it would flout Covid-19 preventive protocol.

Some of the angry passengers booed and created a ruckus, live-streaming the incident on Facebook, gathering public attention. Several hours later, authorities intervened and took the passengers to a centralized quarantine facility in the outlying district of Can Gio.

Nguyen Thanh Nhan, 49, one of the Vietnamese passengers on the flight, told VnExpress from the Can Gio quarantine camp that passengers on the flight protested because Vietjet did not initially announce the specific quarantine fee.

"When selling tickets, the airline only said customers could choose to be isolated at two places, at centralized quarantine facility for VND120,000 ($5.16) per day, or at hotels, without saying how much it would cost a day," said Nhan.

Nhan said when arriving at Incheon Airport he was asked to sign a commitment paper agreeing to be quarantined at a hotel before boarding the flight.

Another passenger on the flight, who asked to remain anonymous, said that when the plane landed at Tan Son Nhat, a Vietjet staff announced that the hotel isolation fee was VND1.3 million per day, and all passengers agreed. But just minutes later, the carrier said it could not find vacant rooms and there were only options at VND1.7 million ($74), and then VND5 million ($216), the passenger said.

"We were not informed clearly on quarantine prices, and the final offer was beyond the pockets of many of us."

Doan Quoc Binh, deputy general director of the Southern Airport Authority, said at a press conference Thursday that all the 158 passengers had signed their commitment to being quarantined in hotels on arrival, but only three of them did so.

Some passengers persuaded others to refuse to go to hotels so that they could be taken to centralized quarantine facilities at cheaper costs, he said.

"Many people caused disorder, affecting the image of Vietnam's aviation industry. Some live-streamed and uttered falsehoods on social media," Binh said.

The citys Covid-19 steering committee intervened to have those refusing to be quarantined at hotels sent to the centralized facility in Can Gio, around 45 kilometers from the airport, to limit risks of community transmission, he added.

Officials have suggested to the Civil Administration Aviation of Vietnam that it asks airlines to apply stricter procedures and regulations including collecting hotel, transportation and testing fees from passengers before they board the flights to avoid similar incidents in the future.

'Not humanitarian flight'

"VJ963 was a commercial flight, not humanitarian flight and passengers should have voluntarily registered to be quarantined at hotels," Binh said.

Nguyen Thi Thuy Binh, deputy general director of Vietjet Air, said at the press conference that the airline had announced the list of hotels designated as quarantine facilities for all passengers at the Incheon Airport before the aircraft took off.

All the passengers had agreed and signed commitments to be quarantined at hotels upon arrival in Tan Son Nhat.

Binh said Vietjet does not decide hotel rates, but was responsible for surveying and trying to find the most reasonable chargers for passengers.

Responding to passengers' complaints that it announced higher hotel rates than it initially informed the passengers, Binh said the airline was not allowed to announce specific hotel prices based on the instructions of the Department of Tourism. Therefore, the airline had only announced that the hotel quarantine fee was expected to cost around $100 per night, depending on the services.

Nguyen Thi Anh Hoa, deputy director of the municipal tourism department, said the city has designated 10 hotels with a capacity of nearly 1,000 rooms as paid quarantine facilities for passengers.

The two to five-star-hotels charge passengers between VND1.2 million to VND5 million per room per night, she said.

Doctor Phan Thanh Tam, deputy director of the HCMC Center for Disease Control, said that as guided by the Health Ministry, people entering the country are divided into two groups, those arriving on humanitarian flights and those on commercial flights. The latter have to use paid quarantine services and have to register specific addresses, book for hotels in Vietnam before boarding the flight, Tam said.

To limit the risk of infection, each passenger will stay in a separate room during the quarantine period, but a maximum of two people are allowed to share a room.

From January until the end of August, the Vietnamese government had quarantined people arriving in the country at its facilities or military camps for 14 days for free.

It has since decreed that foreign nationals and Vietnamese citizens returning from abroad have to pay a minimum of VND120,000 a day to be quarantined at government facilities while those preferring to quarantine themselves at hotels and resorts have to pay the listed price at these establishments.

Vietnam has gone 29 days without domestic transmission of the novel coronavirus. It has so far recorded 1,095 Covid-19 infections, of which 39 are active cases.
TUPELO, Miss., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- BancorpSouth Bank (NYSE: BXS) will release third-quarter 2020 earnings on Monday, October 19, 2020, after the close of the financial markets. It will also hold its regularly scheduled webcast Tuesday, October 20, 2020, beginning at 10:00 a.m. CDT.



The webcast is live coverage of management's conference call with analysts and can be found by visiting: www.BancorpSouth.com/Webcast . This will be an interactive session between management and analysts; others may listen to the live broadcast as it happens. The conference will also be available in archived format at the same address.



BancorpSouth Bank (NYSE: BXS) is headquartered in Tupelo, Mississippi, with approximately $23 billion in assets. BancorpSouth operates approximately 310 full-service branch locations as well as additional mortgage, insurance, and loan production offices in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Tennessee and Texas, including an insurance location in Illinois. BancorpSouth is committed to a culture of respect, diversity, and inclusion in both its workplace and communities. To learn more, visit our Community Commitment page at www.bancorpsouth.com ; "Like" us on Facebook; follow us on [email protected]; or connect with us through LinkedIn.

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NORWALK  When the new Norwalk High School project was unveiled in December, residents had questions and concerns.

They werent alone.

Newly obtained emails from last December show members of Norwalks Common Council were initially unclear on some of the aspects of the project as well.

The emails were obtained through a Freedom of Information request sent to the city in early February, documents which the city did not produce until Sept. 30. There is currently a complaint regarding the response time waiting to be heard by the states Freedom of Information Commission.

Common Council members received official notice about the project on Dec. 6 via an email from Mayor Harry Rilling, three days before the news conference held with Rilling, state Sen. Majority Leader Bob Duff, D-Norwalk, and other state and city officials.

In the email, Rilling said there had been ongoing discussions with the state about Norwalks new school projects and the need for repairs on Norwalk High School.

The state recognized that the current Norwalk High building has significant restraints due to the building being made of concrete. They began questioning the prudence of continuing to repair a building with so many constraints, Rilling wrote. Long story short  we now have the opportunity to build a brand new 300,000 square foot Norwalk High School!

Rilling said the new school would cost approximately $200 million, about $40 million of which Norwalk would pay. He also explained the school would house 1,800 Norwalk students and another 200 students from across the region.

The campus will also support a visual and performing arts academy that would accept students from across the region and an expanded, pilot P-TECH with seats open to students from Bridgeport and Stamford. But it would not be considered an intradistrict magnet school.

The 80% (reimbursement) rate is a unique, and somewhat, unprecedented opportunity for Norwalk! We are excited to capitalize on this moment and replace the 48 year old school instead of taking a Band-Aid approach to repairs, Rilling wrote. We have worked hard with the Board of Ed and through our State Delegation, led by Senator Duff, to make this happen. This project, like all of our capital endeavors, will require approval from the Common Council and Board of Estimate and Taxation. I hope you will join me in support of this wonderful project and opportunity.

On Dec. 17, Common Council member Nick Sacchinelli emailed fellow members Tom Livingston and Barbara Smythe about feedback he had received from Norwalk High teachers on the project, which included confusion on how the regional aspect of the school would work.

They are very concerned (the more appropriate phrase would be pissed off) about the shipping in of Bridgeport and other surrounding Cities as part of this agreement for the new Norwalk High. I was embarrassingly ignorant to that fact.

Smyth said she was confused about how it would work and what makes it different from the inter-district magnet programs.

There are definitely a lot of open questions, Livingston wrote in one email in response to Sacchinelli.

Smyth, who was a teacher at Norwalk High at the time, added she had heard positive feedback on the project from her colleagues.

The only concern one teacher expressed to me is the inconvenience of construction, otherwise numerous teachers have shared their overwhelming excitement and support for a new school, she wrote. A few expressed annoyance at the negativity on social media. They just dont understand why people would not support it.

The Common Council approved $50,000 for design work for the project the following month.

This article has been updated to reflect that the Common Council approved $50,000 for design work for the new Norwalk High School project.

erin.kayata@hearstmediact.com
Bajaj Auto has reported a 10 per cent rise in sales in September, selling as many as 4.41 units compared to 4.02 lakh units in September 2019. The exports accounted for 2.12 lakh units in September as against 1.86 lakh units in September 2019, recording a 14 per cent rise. The domestic sales rose 6 per cent to 2.28 lakh units compared to 2.15 lakh units during the same period last year.

The sale numbers reflect a major turnaround in the two-wheeler industry after the COVID-19 pandemic left the industry high and dry, forcing auto companies to cut costs and jobs amid poor sales.

Bajaj Auto's total sales stood at 356,199 in August, compared to 390,026 units in the same month last year. The Pune-based company reported a 33 per cent YoY decline in sales in July, selling as many as 381,530 units compared to 2,55,832 units in July 2019. In June, it reported a 31 per cent decline in auto sales as the industry moved towards a slow recovery after lockdowns.

Bajaj Auto CFO Soumen Ray had recently said the company is witnessing a strong revival in demand for two-wheelers in both domestic and international markets, but the three-wheeler segment is yet to pick up.

The negative sales in the first quarter have led to poor quarterly figures in Q2 as well. On the quarterly basis, the company saw a 35 per cent decline YoY in domestic sales of two-wheelers at 7.36 lakh units. Exports of two-wheelers declined 33 per cent YoY to 6.28 units in the September quarter.

In the commercial vehicle category, domestic vehicles saw 85 per cent YoY dip to 28,674 units, while exports plunged 35 per cent YoY to 103,373. Overall, the domestic sales declined 42 per cent YoY to 7.64 units and exports declined 33 per cent to 7.31 lakh units in the July-September quarter.

Bajaj Auto had reported a 53 per cent fall in profit at Rs 528 crore in April-June quarter of FY21 against Rs 1,125.67 crore in the corresponding period of last fiscal. Total revenue from operations stood at Rs 3,079.24 crore in Q1 as against Rs 7,755.82 crore in the same period last year.

Also read: Bajaj Auto Q1 results: Profit halves to Rs 528 crore amid coronavirus crisis
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Linkedin Yunindita Prasidya (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Thu, October 1, 2020 16:13 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c487d6a9 1 Business telkom,Telkomsigma,Telkomsel,data-center,tower,telecommunications Free

State-owned telecommunication giant PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia (Telkom) is bolstering its data center business and plans to strengthen its tower enterprise against the backdrop of dwindling revenue from its legacy businesses.

Telkom vice president of investor relations Andi Setiawan said the company would be capitalizing on the shift in consumer behavior, as more people and enterprises were using data to work, study and do more activities online.

Within our enterprise segment, we are focusing on businesses with good profitability, including data center, cloud, connectivity and enterprise solutions while limiting businesses with low margin, in this case, device-related businesses, Andi said in a virtual company update hosted by Samuel Sekuritas on Tuesday.

Telecommunication firms have benefited from the work-from-home policy and online learning programs implemented nationwide as a result of social restrictions imposed to limit the spread of the coronavirus. A surge in data usage was recorded as companies, schools and government offices are forced to digitize their operations.

Telkom was building a data center on the outskirts of Jakarta, with the first phase of development to conclude by mid-2021, said Andi.

Telkom owns three data centers in Indonesia through its subsidiary TelkomSigma, located in Serpong, Sentul and Surabaya. According to the companys annual report, 74 percent of the total capacity of the three data centers had been utilized by the end of last year.

TelkomSigma currently holds the biggest share in the data services market at 43 percent, according to company data. The second biggest data center company only owns a 24 percent market share.

Aside from propping up its data center business, Telkom is also strengthening its tower business through its subsidiary PT Dayamitra Telekomunikasi (Mitratel).

In time, we will need to unlock Mitratel, either through an initial public offering or strategic partnership, Andi said. In line with the plan to increase Mitratels valuation, around 5,000 to 6,000 of Telkomsels towers would be consolidated to Mitratel, the company said.

Mitratels market share, in terms of total industry revenue, increased from 28 percent in the first half of last year to 29 percent in the first half of this year, making it the second-biggest player in the industry.

Mitratels business is projected to continue to expand against the backdrop of a growing market driven by the transition to 4G and a strong customer base with predictable revenue streams, as the tower business offers long-term contracts.

Telkom, whose line of business includes providing mobile voice and SMS services through its subsidiary PT Telekomunikasi Selular (Telkomsel), reported that its revenue decreased by 3.6 percent year-on-year (yoy) to Rp 66.9 trillion in the first half of this year.

Andi noted that Telkoms revenue from its SMS, fixed & cellular voice segment decreased by 27.5 percent to Rp 13 trillion. By contrast, revenue from the companys data, internet and technology services segment and IndiHome grew by 6.8 percent and 19.1 percent to Rp 35.3 trillion and Rp 10.4 trillion, respectively.

Within Telkomsel alone, its digital business segment grew by 13.4 percent during the first six months of this year. Meanwhile, its legacy segment declined by 29.7 percent. The growth in the former, however, had yet to compensate for the downturn in the latter as Telkomsels total revenue contracted by 2.4 percent yoy.

Indeed, the trend of increasing connectivity has brought about alternative solutions for SMS and voice; our revenue experienced a slump, but mostly from the legacy business segment, Doni Andriansyah, Telkomsels financial planning and business partner senior vice president said.

Mirae Asset Sekuritas Indonesia analyst Lee Young Jun wrote in a report published on Aug. 11 that Telkoms first-half performance was in line with the securities firms forecast.

In the first half of the year, net profit came in at Rp 11 trillion, achieving 59 percent of our forecast or 54 percent of consensus. All in all, we think the result was in line with our forecast, the analyst said.
Alumnus Billy Walton owns Walton Academy and Childrens World on Arlington Boulevard in Greenville, as well as three other child care centers. | Photos: Billy Walton

Billy Walton, wife Toni and sons Blake and Chad all graduated from ECU.

This post appears here courtesy of ECU News Services . The author of this post is Erin Ward When Governor Roy Cooper issued an executive order to shut down K-12 schools in North Carolina in March, Children's World, a day care center with multiple locations in Greenville, stayed open. As an essential service during the COVID-19 crisis, Children's World continues to serve kids aged 6 weeks to 12 years, many whose parents are health care workers.Alumnus Billy Walton and sons Chad and Blake, who also graduated from ECU, own and run the centers. By combining business acumen and education principles, they've managed to build a successful family operation when many child care programs nationwide are in danger of shuttering permanently Billy Walton said.Twenty years ago, Walton bought his first day care center on Greenville Boulevard. He bought it because he was unable to sell it for a client in his brokerage firm The Sabre Group. He considered the building a real estate investment. Little did he know that he would become passionate about child care and the owner of three more centers and a private K-5 school. Or that running child care centers would become a family business. The Waltons even started a scholarship at ECU in the College of Health and Human Performance for students majoring in birth-kindergarten teacher education or child life.Billy Walton said.Walton graduated from ECU in 1977 with a degree in industrial technology, although he comes from a family of educators. His wife, Toni, is a former kindergarten teacher and ECU alumna. Twins Blake and Chad Walton graduated from the College of Business in 2005.Blake Walton added.echoed Chad Walton.In the future, the Waltons would like to see their scholarship incorporate business classes or a certificate in entrepreneurship alongside an early childhood education curriculum.Billy Walton said.Senior birth-kindergarten education major Caroline Galindo is considering being a director or owner of a day care one day. She was very appreciative of being named one of the first recipients of the Walton Academy & Children's World Learning Centers Scholarship, she said.she said.Understanding the value of their employees and providing the tools for them to successfully do their jobs is a core part of the Children's World business plan, Billy Walton said.he said.The Waltons plan to expand several of their existing centers in addition to building a new child care location in Greenville and one outside of town within the next year or two. By that time, there may even be a number of Walton Academy & Children's World Learning Centers Scholarship graduates ready to hire.Walton said.Kelly Rusk contributed to this story
COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Gov. Mike DeWine used his televised briefing on Thursday to denounce political extremists, including racist hate groups, and to seek to reassure Ohioans that the states upcoming presidential election will be fair.

In other words, DeWine, without saying so, was seeking to perform some damage control following President Donald Trumps comments during Tuesdays chaotic presidential debate in Cleveland, when Trump refused to clearly condemn a hate group and once again cast doubt on the integrity of the election.

As Ohioans, we were very proud to host this debate. However, the debate itself was not our countrys finest hour or our finest 90 minutes, DeWine said at the beginning of his briefing. (Hed previously written on Twitter immediately following the debate that Trump had done a great job!)

A great job tonight by @realdonaldtrump! Congratulations to tonights sponsors @cwru and @ClevelandClinic on hosting on a great debate.  Mike DeWine (@MikeDeWine) September 30, 2020

DeWine on Thursday chided both Trump, who he said he politically supports, and his Democratic challenger, former Vice President Joe Biden, who he said he likes personally, for name calling during the debate. Trump had repeatedly interrupted and insulted Biden, who grew testy and occasionally reciprocated.

Without explaining why, DeWine then moved on to condemn hate groups and political extremists.

There are haters. There are people who hate Jews, Muslims, African-Americans, and we could go on and on. There is no place in this great country for that, he said. There also are people who believe that violence is the way to achieve political ends. That is not right.

It sickens me that there are people in our country who perpetrate this hate and violence and work to divide us, he said. We cannot let the fringe groups of the right and left divide us.

He then reiterated that Ohios election will be fair and secure, including for those who vote by mail. He did not say why he was raising that topic either.

Ohioans can be assured of a fair and orderly election this November, DeWine said. As our history proves, it is orderly, it is transparent, it is bipartisan and as Ohioans should and can expect, the will of the people will be respected, he said. In Ohio and in this country, elections are sacred. There is a sanctity to our elections process. We give them proper respect.

You and your vote are safe, he later said.

Lt. Gov. Jon Husted, a Republican who served as Ohios Secretary of State from 2011 through 2018, reiterated DeWines comments.

Remember, elections in Ohio are run by your neighbors," he said. "The 88 county boards of elections, they are made up of Democrats and Republicans that live in your community. The local polling locations are operated by men and women who are your friends and neighbors. If you have concerns, if you have questions about whether the elections process will be run well, you can be a part of it.

But pressed later by reporters on what role Trump may have played in prompting his speech topic, DeWine declined to be more specific. DeWine almost never criticizes Trump and on the rare occasions that he has, hes been very diplomatic.

Press conference after press conference, I get asked about different comments by the president or somebody else, he said. Im not here to answer every single thing the president says. Throughout my career, and throughout my time as governor, what I believe in and what we will do... Well continue to speak out against violence, well continue to speak out against anything that disrupts the fairness of an election. Well continue to speak out against hatred and violence, and thats what my job is. My job is not every single day to critique the president of the United States, nor Joe Biden. And if we have a different president in there in January, Ill have the same attitude."

Following Tuesdays debate, Trump was widely criticized, by Democrats and even by some Republicans, for once again not clearly denouncing a right-wing racist group, and for sowing uncertainty over what is already a heated election.

During the debate, moderator Chris Wallace asked Trump if he would denounce white supremacist and militia groups, since he had criticized Biden for not doing the same of left-wing groups. After Trump demurred, Biden mentioned the Proud Boys, a right-wing group with racist and misogynist beliefs.

In a chaotic exchange, Trump said the Proud Boys, who have engaged in street fighting with left-wing demonstrators, should stand back and stand by, before pivoting to criticizing Antifa, the loosely organized, militant left-wing movement.

Pressed by Trump on Antifa, Biden said the group is an idea, not an organization.

Trump backtracked on Wednesday, saying he didnt know who the Proud Boys are and said they should stand down.

When asked to do so, Trump on Tuesday also declined to say he will respect the results of the election.

Elections observers are concerned about a fraught scenario in which a candidate may hold an inconclusive lead on Election Day, leaving the results up to a possibly large number of additional mail-in votes that will arrive in the subsequent days. This is why Republican Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose has said he will prominently report the number of outstanding mail ballots on election night this year.

This post-election ballot-counting is normal -- in Ohio, for instance, Hillary Clinton picked up a net 8,142 votes in Ohio in 2016 after the late arriving ballots were recorded. But Trumps victory by then was assured and the change was inconsequential. And this year, when a record amount of mail votes are expected, Democrats have been promoting mail-in voting because of the coronavirus pandemic, while Trump has been priming his supporters to mistrust it.

Trumps campaign, meanwhile, has told supporters to view any prolonged counting of mail-in votes as Democrats fraudulently stealing the election" if it meaningfully shifts the results.

Trump declined during Tuesdays debate to say he would urge calm among his supporters or avoid declaring victory pre-emptively if there is an extended limbo period.

He once again predicted, without evidence, there will be widespread fraud because of the increase in mailed ballots. He denounced the practice of sending unsolicited absentee ballots to all registered voters -- a practice long followed by a handful of Republican and Democratic states -- even though, like Ohio, nearly all of this years key battleground states, like Michigan, North Carolina, Florida, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, only send ballots to registered voters who request them.

Im urging my supporters to go in to the polls and watch very carefully, because thats what has to happen, Trump said. I am urging them to do it.

Democrats increasingly have grown concerned that Trump, by claiming fraud, is laying the foundation for a strategy to seek to invalidate the election results if he loses.

Biden, meanwhile, said Tuesday he would accept the results of the election if all ballots are counted.

The fact is, I will accept it, and he will too. You know why? Because once the winner is declared after all the ballots are counted, all the votes are counted, thatll be the end of it. Thatll be the end of it. And if its me, in fact, fine. If its not me, Ill support the outcome," he said.
Schumer Suggests Ending Filibuster, Pursue DC and Puerto Rico Statehood

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) reiterated the everything is on the table mantra amid Democrat efforts to delay the confirmation of Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett, while raising the prospect of ending the legislative filibuster and pursuing statehood for Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C., if Democrats win a majority in the Senate.

We are using all the tactics we can to slow the thing down, he told MSNBC in an interview.

Would that include adding, if the Senate becomes a Democratic majority, adding D.C. and Puerto Rico as states and ending the filibuster? asked host Joy Reid.

Id love to make them states, Schumer replied, and as for the filibuster, Im not busting my chops to become majority leader to do very little or nothing. We are going to get a whole lot done. And as Ive said, everything, everything is on the table.

Democrats fear that a successful confirmation of Barrett, a conservative, to the nations highest court would represent a rightward shift that could reverse liberal gains and strengthen conservatives legal agenda for years to come. In response, Democrats are seeking to stack the deck in their favor, including ending the filibuster.

Former Senate Democratic leader Harry Reid told MSNBC in an interview in early September that ending the legislative filibuster, which effectively requires a 60-vote supermajority to advance any bill out of the Senate, would be a key move serving to clear the way for Democratic nominee Joe Bidens progressive agenda if he wins the race for the White House.

If President Biden wants to get things done, he cant play around with the filibuster, Reid told NBC News. So I think that should be the first item of business with a Senate majority which is Democraticto get rid of the filibuster.

Eli Zupnick, former communications director for Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) and current head of a coalition of veteran Democrat party operatives and activist groups, echoed those remarks in an interview on MSNBC.

Our goal is to lift the filibuster higher on progressives agendas in advance of November and help them make it clear to a future President Biden and Senate leadership that they expect and demand speedy Senate rules reform in 2021 and will not accept more gridlock, delays, and excuses, Zupnick said.

Granting statehood to Puerto Rico and Washington is being considered presumably on the assumption that this would give Democrats four additional senators.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) told Fox News Radios Guy Benson several weeks ago that every single Democratic Senate challenger [wants to] admit the District as a state, adding theyre going to admit Puerto Rico as a state. Thats four new Democratic senators in perpetuity.

And once they get a hammerlock on the Senate, theyre going to then pack the Supreme Court, the circuit courts, and the district courts by creating new vacancies, filling them with judicial activists. And then theyll do what they always do, turn to the economy and overtax and over-regulate, McConnell said.

Expanding the number of justices on the Supreme Courtknown as court-packingalso has been floated by prominent Democratic lawmakers.

Sen. Ed Markey (D-Mass.), in a Sept. 19 tweet, said that if McConnell wont back down on Barretts confirmation, neither will we.

We must make it absolutely clear that if McConnell attempts to fill this seat, we will abolish the filibuster and expand the court when we retake the Senate, he wrote.

Joining Markey in calls to consider packing the Supreme Court, and echoing the Democrats everything is on the table message, is Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), a prominent member of the partys leftmost wing.

We should leave all options on the table, including the number of justices that are on the Supreme Court, Ocasio-Cortez said on Sept. 19.

The idea of expanding the Supreme Court has so far received a muted response from Biden, who during the primary opposed suggestions that Democrats might pack the court, although he has recently become more vague.

Biden refused to answer a question during the first presidential debate on Sept. 29 on whether he would support court-packing.

Whatever position I take in that, thatll become the issue, Biden told debate moderator Chris Wallace of Fox News. The issue is the American people should speak. Youre voting now. Vote, and let your senators know how you feel.

President Donald Trump interjected, pressing Biden for an answer, prompting Biden to say, Would you shut up, man?
Tech platform for blue-collar workforce management Betterplace has said the overall demand for jobs in 2020 will be 14 lakh and the will lead 80 per cent of overall demand.

The economy is beginning its recovery, and sectors like delivery and healthcare will surpass pre-Covid levels, it said in a report based on data from the past five years, 1000-plus companies, 20,000 pin codes, 80 lakh employees and millions of data points giving insights into the ground realities, pandemic impact and concluding with the path to recovery.

"Job opportunities will see massive growth in tier two and three cities. Bengaluru and the four metros will generate 70 per cent of demand pre-Covid levels," it said.

The paradigm and reality shift that is poised to sweep across blue-collar ecosystem is expectations of job seekers and its impact on their employers.

The migrant workforce returning to work due to the necessity of sustaining a livelihood expects a healthy, safe and stable work environment. Visibility of guaranteed income and healthcare insurance cover is uppermost in the minds of the migrant workforce, said the report.

Pravin Agarwala, Co-founder CEO of Betterplace, said the Covid outbreak in India impacted blue-collar sector more than any other. Lakhs of migrants walking back to their villages which led to their absence in industry and our daily lives demonstrated how urban India is dependent on this workforce.

With the onset of the festive season across the country, he said, it is heartening to see governments and private sector employers rising to this challenge because they expect the period to pave the way for the recovery.

Agarwala said there are already green shoots appearing in demand generation in cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Delhi. The report reinforces the fact that the jobs pipeline on the ground is robust.

"With the application of AI-based technology which matches skills and jobs, both job seekers and employers will be winners. As a result, our country and economy wins," he said.

The Betterplace report said one-third of the demand for jobs will come from three southern states -- Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Telangana. The city-wise maximum job creations will happen in Bengaluru with 58,000 jobs followed by Hyderabad, New Delhi and Mumbai.

Whiel Bengaluru and Hyderabad are top destinations for job seekers, four big states are home to over 70 per cent of the migrants' workforce.

The top five cities from where the workforce reverse migrated are Mumbai, Bengaluru, Delhi NCR, Hyderabad and Chennai and the top six states from where the migrants returned are Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand and Odisha.

The report said facility management segment will close the year at 90 per cent of January demand levels with close to 60,000 openings and the delivery segment will surpass January numbers. The on-demand driver segment was the worst hit accounting for 44 per cent job losses.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Australia Post is recruiting more than 4000 workers to help deliver an expected record number of parcels this Christmas.

The mail service is embarking on its largest hiring spree in its 210-year history and is looking to snap up 2,900 Christmas casuals for transport and delivery across the country.

Australia Post is also looking to hire 300 fixed term full-time and part-time staff for the customer contact centre.

Australia Post is recruiting 4,000 people ahead of what is expected to be the biggest Christmas ever

The mail service is embarking on its largest hiring spree in its 210-year history and is looking to snap up 2,900 Christmas casuals for transport and delivery across the country

These opportunities are available in Brisbane and regional areas of South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria and Queensland.

Nine-hundred staff are also sought after to work in areas such as the Post Office network.

Last year 23,000 people applied for casual positions at Australia Post at Christmas.

Earlier this year, more than 50,000 people applied for 1000 casual positions created to cope with the increased volume of parcels during the pandemic.

Sue Davies, executive general manager of People & Culture, said she is proud of how Australia Post has worked in unprecedented times.

'A lot has been expected of our people this year and I'm so proud of the way our team has adapted and dealt with the challenges they've faced to keep delivering for Australia across our entire network,' Ms Davies said.

Australia Post is also looking to hire 300 fixed term full-time and part-time staff for the customer contact centre

'In managing all the necessary COVID-safe requirements, including a reduced workforce in our Melbourne facilities during the recent Stage 4 restrictions, our people have gone over and above to provide critical services for businesses and their customers and delivered for over 8.1 million households who have shopped online between March and August alone.

'This is a record-breaking recruitment drive for what we expect to be a Christmas unlike any we've had before in Australia Post's history.

'In a year that has been incredibly challenging and impacted people in many ways, we are delighted to be inviting people to join us this Christmas as we deliver across the country.'
Xi Jinping's bid for world climate leadership might be more palatable if China were not building a new coal plant every two weeks or adding more gigawatts of coal power each year than the rest of the world combined.

In February, China's National Energy Administration relaxed its "traffic light system" on permitting for new coal plants, opening the way for a construction blitz in the early 2020s. The small province of Jiangxi has a green light to double its coal power capacity over the next five years, adding 22 gigawatts (GW) or "another Turkey". Ecologists call it the "green leap backwards".

At the same time China is pitching for supremacy in renewable technology and electric vehicles. This has more to do with the strategic ambitions of "Made in China 2025" than mitigating climate change.

China already burns half the world's coal, and it keeps building. Credit:AP

An EV run off coal power is dirtier than a Volkswagen diesel. A lithium battery manufactured at 1000 degrees centigrade in Xinyu's giant coal-fired facility in Jiangxi is a brown horror story. So are the steel towers built for wind turbines. Coal produces 66 per cent of China's power, and 57 per cent of total energy.
In this aerial image from a drone, an empty migrant dinghy floats off the beach at St Margaret's Bay after the occupants landed from France in Dover, England, on Sept. 11, 2020. (Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)

Britain Arrests Three People in International Small Boat Migrant Smuggling Investigation

British immigration officials arrested three people in simultaneous 6 a.m. raids in London on Tuesday as part of an international investigation into migrant smuggling by small boat.

In a government statement published on Wednesday, the Home Office and Immigration Enforcement said the three people were arrested on suspicion of assisting unlawful immigration to the UK.

The three arrested at separate London addresses, a 36-year-old Iranian man arrested in Streatham, a 40-year-old British woman in Greenhithe, and a 33-year-old British man in Enfield, are thought to be part of an organized crime ring, the government said.

As part of the same operation, seven arrests were made in France and two in the Netherlands by French and Dutch officials, who also seized a number of vessels and related equipment, the government said.

Belgium, France, the Netherlands, and the UK all cooperated in the two-day operation, which led to the dismantling of a large network of criminals smuggling migrants in life-threatening conditions through the English Channel, Europol, the European Unions law enforcement agency, said in a statement.

Dangerous Crossings

Home Secretary Priti Patel gave a stark warning to people smugglers behind the notoriously risky Channel crossings.

I will not tolerate the illegally facilitated, dangerous crossings of the Channel, she said in the government statement.

I want these arrests to send a clear message to the gangs engaged in people smugglingwe are coming for you, she added. My commitment to solving this problem is absolute.

UK Border Force officers help migrants with children, believed to have been picked up from boats in the Channel, disembark from coastal patrol vessel HMC Hunter, in the port of Dover, on Aug. 9, 2020. (Glyn Kirk/AFP via Getty Images)

Europols Robert Crepinko, head of the European Migrant Smuggling Center, also condemned the dangerous illegal crossings organized by ruthless criminals who are risking migrants lives for profit.

According to think tank Migration Watch UK, 7,221 people in around 400 boats have been discovered crossing the Channel illegally since the start of the year.

Increasing Migrants

There were at least 1,974 illegal migrants smuggled across in September alone, Migration Watch UK said, which is 139 more than in the whole of 2019.

The average number of illegal migrants per boat also appears to be increasing, going from just under eight to over 12 since early 2019, Migration Watch UK said.

The government said that those arrested are thought to have bought rigid-hulled inflatable boats, outboard motors, and lifejackets, and charged each person around 3,000 pounds ($3,850) to illegally cross the Channel, which separates southern England from northern France, the UK government said.

They are suspected of being part of an organized crime ring consisting mainly of Iranian nationals living in France, the Netherlands and the UK, Europol said.

Also seized during the London operation by Immigration Enforcements Criminal and Financial Investigation team were 40,000 pounds ($51,400) in cash and four cars.

Britains National Crime Agency said on Wednesday that, in a separate cooperation with French law enforcement, almost 100 suspected people smugglers had been arrested in France since the collaboration began two months ago.

In addition, the Joint Intelligence Cell had helped prevent 500 migrants from attempting to cross the Channel in small boats.
EAST CHICAGO  A man was shot to death early Thursday outside a bar in the city's North Harbor neighborhood, officials said.

Fabian Villagomez, 36, of East Chicago, was pronounced dead about 4:50 a.m. His manner of death and injuries were still listed as pending as of Thursday morning, according to the Lake County coroner's office.

Police are investigating Villagomez's death as a homicide.

About 3:30 a.m., East Chicago police were alerted to about four shots fired in the area of El Sombrero Bar, at 2001 Broadway St. Officers found Villagomez lying outside the ground on the west side of the bar, Deputy Chief Jose Rivera said.

A preliminary investigation determined Villagomez was engaged in an argument earlier inside the bar. The argument escalated and moved outside, where Villagomez was shot several times, Rivera said.

Lake County Sheriff's Department CSI units also responded to the scene, according to the coroner's office.

Police did not disclose additional details on the shooting, citing an ongoing investigation.
SASKATOON - University of Saskatchewan (USask) hydrologist Jay Famiglietti has been awarded the 2020 Hydrologic Sciences Award by the American Geophysical Union (AGU) for outstanding contributions to the science of water over his career.

Famiglietti, executive director of USask's Global Institute for Water Security (GIWS), has led development of novel remote sensing tools for hydrology and water security, particularly the capability to do remote sensing of groundwater using the NASA Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) satellite mission.

These satellite remote sensing techniques and advanced computer models have made it possible to document how the water cycle and freshwater resources are affected by climate change and to map how water availability is changing globally. The models are used by major climate modelling labs across North America.

"Jay's contributions to the GRACE satellite mission to assess groundwater resources from space is considered one of the major hydrologic discoveries of our time, transforming local hydrology to the continental scale," said Scott Tyler, president of the AGU's Hydrology Section.

"His analysis and models are giving water policy makers, often for first time, the data they need to accurately assess rates of groundwater depletion and to understand the impacts of over-exploitation of groundwater. He is an extremely worthy recipient of this distinguished award from his peers."

Famiglietti, a faculty member in the USask School of Environment and Sustainability as well as in the Department of Geography and Planning, was recruited in 2018 from the U.S. where he had been Senior Water Scientist with NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

"It is incredibly humbling to be included in the same category as previous awardees," said Famiglietti, who holds the Canada 150 Research Chair in Hydrology and Remote Sensing at USask.

"Over the course of my career, I've tried to do the science that draws attention to some of the world's most urgent challenges in water security and global change."

One of the world's most cited hydrologists, Famiglietti's work has been cited over 19,000 times. He regularly publishes in top journals such as Nature, Science, Nature Climate Change, and Nature Geoscience. With a very high h-index of 74 (Google Scholar), he was named a Highly Cited Researcher in 2019 (Clarivate Analytics).

Famiglietti also leads the USask Let's Talk About Water science outreach initiative which involves a number of avenues for science communication including a film festival and competition, and a podcast which he hosts and which has just begun a second season.

Famiglietti was nominated by his peers for the Hydrologic Sciences Award. The AGU's Hydrology Section, the largest of all of the AGU sections, has more than 7,500 members. Normally presented at the annual AGU meeting (which would have taken place in San Francisco this year), the award was presented this week to Famiglietti at a virtual event.

"It is so gratifying to see Jay win this prestigious award. The only negative is that I cannot give him a hug or high five and for all of us to be in San Francisco to celebrate this huge accomplishment," said Jeff McDonnell, USask professor and past-chair of the AGU's Hydrology Section.

"This award underscores why we were so eager to bring Jay to USask and how lucky we are to have a scientist of his prominence leading the Global Institute for Water Security."

###

In 2020, USask ranked first in Canada and 20th in the world for water resources research (Academic Ranking of World Universities).

For more information on this award, visit: https://eos.org/agu-news/2020-agu-section-awardees-and-named-lecturers

For more information on the Global Institute for Water Security, visit: https://water.usask.ca/

For more information on Let's Talk About Water, visit: https://www.letstalkaboutwater.ca/
BRUSSELS (dpa-AFX) - Eurostat is set to release the euro area producer prices and jobless rate for August at 5.00 am ET Thursday. Ahead of the data, the euro traded mixed against its major rivals. While the euro rose against the pound, it held steady against the greenback and the yen. Against the franc, it fell. The euro was worth 123.80 against the yen, 1.1725 against the greenback, 0.9144 against the pound and 1.0782 against the franc as of 4:55 am ET. 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.
Accepting Fate on the GR7 Hiking Trail of Spain

Story and photos by Jeremy Bassetti

Plans for a long-term hike in the Spanish Alpujarras region provides a lesson on the futility of making plans at all in a place that operates on nature's schedule.

Red poppies and seaside towns rushed by the bus, which hauled us along the Mediterranean coast of Spain for a few hours before turning north into the Sierra Nevada foothills. The rolling hills became sharper and steeper the farther we drove from the coast, its thick saline air giving way to the lighter atmosphere of the mountains, sweetened by deciduous woods and wild lavender in equal measure. The bus pulled off the road onto a gravel embankment. "Lanjaron," the driver said. We stepped off the bus and hoisted our backpacks over our shoulders when a small man with a drunken face wobbled towards us.

"Senderistas?" he slurred  "Hikers?"

I nodded.

He laughed, which transformed into a phlegmy cough, and asked for a cigarette. We apologized to the man that we didn't smoke. "Hasta el cuarenta de mayo no te quites el sayo," he muttered and stumbled away.

"Um. What just happened?" my wife asked.

"Town drunk probably."

"I got that. But what was he saying?"

"He wanted a cigarette. And then he said something like, 'Don't take off your raincoat until the 40th of May.'"

"What does that even mean?"

"It is an old Spanish expression, I think. That the weather is unpredictable until the summer months."

Sarah turned to me.

"Don't give me that look," I said. "That's why we brought raincoats. Just in case."

I changed the subject to the more pressing issue of finding a place to sleep, but I must admit that I was a bit worried. It was mid-May and our mission was to hike some 50 alpine miles on the GR7 trail from Lanjaron to Valor, visiting the white villages of the Alpujarra along the way. It was our first true holiday in nearly a year and though we had light raincoats, we were ill preparedmentally and physically to deal with any rain. And, most importantly, I'd read too many books to ignore forewarnings of any kind, especially those spoken by fevered oracles in the mountains.

Walking in the Footsteps of Moors on the GR7

The Alpujarra is a mountainous region in southern Spain that sits between the Sierra Nevada and the Mediterranean. To the northwest lies Granada and the highest peak in the Iberian Peninsula, Mulhacen. To the south, the city of Motril and the sea. Some 80 small villages, famous for their whitewashed and rectilinear architecture, dot the slopes of the Sierra Nevada.

The GR7 hiking trail runs through the well-known white villages of the Alpujarra that appear along the route "lying like constellations in the vague immensity" of the mountainscape, noted the British expat and Hispanist Gerald Brenan. Small and white, they seem to glow against the drab hills, only to disappear under the rare camouflage of snow. Hikers can occasionally see the lofty peaks of Mulhacen and Veleta appearing and disappearing behind the lesser mountains. Other times, when hikers peer farther afield, the mountains of Africa across the Mediterranean take shape between the closer Spanish peaks.

"GR7" stands for Gran Recorrido 7, or Long-Distance Route 7, and is part of an extensive network of walking paths throughout Europe. The GR7 runs from Tarifa to the Pyrenees, where it connects to the European hiking trail network and runs through southern France, Switzerland, Austria, and Hungary before bending south and eventually ending in Greece. Even without factoring in the European extensions, the Spanish GR7 alone is more than twice as long as the most popular route of the well-trodden Camino de Santiago.

And portions of the GR7 are probably just as old, too. While the GR7 did not exist in its present form until the 1970s, sections of the trail correspond with medieval paths mentioned in historical sources from the period. Trail guides and hikers often note that the Moors and Berbers who invaded the Iberian Peninsula in the 8th century and took residence in the mountains walked upon some of these trails.

Lanjaron, the popular spa town and the so-called "Gateway of the Alpujarra," was our starting place. "Popular" is a relative term. Despite us arriving at the start of the hiking season, the streets were free from the constant flow of tourists one can easily find in nearby Malaga or Granada. We were mostly alone in the tiny squares, where clay pots holding geraniums stood in contrast against the chalky walls. Tiled fountains bubbled with mountain-fed water next to grandmothers sitting on benches, the town gossip flowing just as freely as the water.

We set off on our hike the next morning under clear skies, stopping at a local bar at the edge of the village for coffee and provisions. There we spotted the village drunk who, nearing the end of his bender, recognized us, and unsuccessfully asked for another cigarette.

At around 2,000 ft. in elevation, Lanjaron was one of the lowest-lying cities on our route. Our next stop, Soportujar, wasn't too much higher at around 3,000 ft. Nor was it far away. But with regular elevation gains and losses on its 10 miles of trails, the hike would take a full day, especially for lowlanders carrying upwards of 40 pounds of gear on their backs.

"How far is our hike today?" Sarah asked some 10 minutes into our hike leaving Lanjaron.

"About 16 kilometers in total."

"Is it like this the whole way?" She planted a hand on a small boulder and pushed herself onto it.

"No," I said copying her move and unsure if I was telling the truth.

At that moment we heard rustling below us. An old man carrying grocery bags walked up the path, his dog not far behind. We watched them pass, their lungs and legs seemingly hardened by years of mountain living.

"If they can do it, so can we," I reassured Sarah, and we pressed on.

Navigating Hazards on a Spanish Mountain Trail

The path took us to a rumbling acequia (irrigation canal)perhaps as old as the middle ageswhere a few dogs greeted us and led us into the mountains with wagging tails. Our canine guides left us to scuffle with a much larger dog as the path leveled off and opened into an immense meadow. In that vast space, the only reminders of civilization were the trails that cut through the flowers, the far-off clangs of livestock bells, and the white villages hanging in the mountains like ghostly apparitions.

Soon though, reminders of danger and a few deadly tests disrupted the serenity. The first came on the trail with the village of Canar visible across the ravine. The footpath had crumbled away, revealing a precipitous drop into a rocky gorge. With Canar so close and our cortijo (literally "farmhouse," but in this context a rural accommodation) in Soportujar already booked, turning back was not an option. We threw our packs across the collapsed path and, aware that one false step would result in our deaths, we scrambled to a point above the path, traversed across the exposed section, and slid down onto the path on the opposite side. There the skull of an animal, possibly a sheep or goat, greeted us.

We made it across, but no sooner had the effects of the adrenaline started to dissipate than we faced another challenge. We knew that we would soon arrive at a levee, but we hadn't expected that the melting snow from the mountains would form a confluence at the dike. A river flowed down from the mountains, felled trees evidence of its power, and over the levee some 30 meters into the ravine. We walked upstream and saw an opportunity to cross at a point where a few trees had logjammed. We tied our shoes to our packs and, with our ankles submerged in its cool waters, walked across the river on slippery logs.

After a brief refuel at Canar, we arrived at our cortijo in Soportujar battered, both mentally and physically. The next day arrived with another surprise, this time in the form of steady rain. The steward of the cortijo expressed concern that we would hike in such conditions. He cautioned us that the rain and muddy trail would be hazardous, and offered to drive us directly to Pitres, bypassing Bubion, Pampaneira, Capileira and the other villages of the Poquiera Valley. With the memory of nearly dying still fresh, we readily agreed.

Seeking a Simple Life in the Alpujarra

Gerald Brenan had no choice but to walk everywhere when he lived in the Alpujarra for seven years beginning in 1919. He didn't have the luxury of being driven to nearby villages when conditions were poor. In the early twentieth century, most Alpujarrenos walked or rode horses to their destinations as motor vehicles, and the roads to drive them on, hadn't yet arrived in the Alpujarra.

In his famous book South from Granada, Brenan once conveyed a sense of shame that, after being struck with dysentery, he was in such a "poor condition" that he could only walk 130 miles in 5 days. This feat must not only be impressive to contemporary Americans who walk somewhere between 2.5 and 3 miles each day on average even without diarrhea, but also to anyone unaccustomed to steep elevation gains and mountain life.

Brenan was okay with hiking, as part of his motivation for moving to the Alpujarra in the disillusioned years following the Great War was to get lost. He wanted to escape his dissatisfaction with the "formless society" and "routine professions" of middle-class life. With the discontent went the comforts; he also left behind good roads and modern forms of transport. Life in England was "stifling," he said, with its "rigid conventions" that poisoned the soul. Instead, the climate south of the Pyrenees was one that "nourishes" the creative impulse and offers an existence that is the purifying and redemptive antithesis to a modern, consumption-driven life. But Brenan also moved to the Alpujarra to have the space to study, read, meditate, and lose himself in undistracted thought. In a word, he wanted to be free in an environment that modernity, industry, and all their trappings had yet to ruin.

The wish to escape a modern, consumption-driven life for the Alpujarra is one that still resonates. Without much else to do in Pitres on a cold and rainy day but drink, we cozied up to the owner of a bar who told us he moved to the village after "wasting my time as a banker in Barcelona." Between servings of his vinegary homemade wine, Antonio told us he preferred the slow pace of "real life" to the large paychecks of a fast and superficial city. To be sure, while tourism in the Alpujarra has been on the rise since the 1960s, market forces and promises of economic prosperity have driven many Alpujarrenos from the villages to larger Spanish cities. But not Antonio who, with his lip piercing and angular haircut, is going in the opposite direction. And he wasn't the only one who preferred the country to the city.

The owner of a nearby restaurant, an elevated spot with decor reminiscent of Middle Earth and a large outdoor patio overlooking the Rio Trevelez, invited us for some after-hours drinks in the restaurant and to show us a slideshow of his travels around the world. "I've traveled all over," the owner told us. "I took this photo in Egypt. And this one in Algeria. I've seen it all. But I prefer to live here. It is better here."

Suddenly, an old man wearing rubber knee-high boots and overalls entered the restaurant. The owner greeted the old man and locked the restaurant doors behind him. "And here I can do whatever I want," he said as he pulled a joint out of his pocket and lit it. The smoke of marijuana and tobacco filled the small restaurant. Later, I helped them search for large snails in the restaurant's outside patio. "For dinner," the old man told me as he tossed some snails into a plastic grocery bag.

No Place for Tight Schedules

We awoke the next morning to heavy rain drumming on the flat roof of our room. And the forecast for nonstop rain for the rest of the week dampened our enthusiasm to continue hiking to Valor. The rain meant that we would have to continue by bus, and that we'd be confined to the depopulated villages themselves. The mountains, the mountainscapes, the remoteness, and the escape in the wildernessall these plans washed away.

Still, we continued by bus and made Trevelez our final stop. At 4,840 feet above sea level, Trevelez is one of the highest and remotest villages in Spain. Its proximity to the summit of Mulhacen and its access to a variety of trails means that Trevelez is a choice destination for mountaineers. But the rain kept us confined to the village with little to do but wander around, peek into the foggy windows of closed shops, and eat ham.

Yet somehow, that was okay. The deeper we went into the Alpujarra, the more we learned that the true natural order of things is that the world imposes a schedule on us, not the other way around, that we had no choice but take what the mountains had to give. Like Brenan, we went to the Alpujarra to get away from the predictable monotony of the modern world, to experience nature in all its glory as much its grit. And we got exactly what we asked for. Though, if there is a next time, we'll happily give an inebriated man what he asks fora cigarettelest we incur the curse of another drunken seer.

Jeremy Bassetti is a writer and the host of Travel Writing World, a podcast in which he interviews authors of travel books about their work and the business and craft of travel writing. He is also the editor of Adventures in Ideas. You can learn more about Jeremy and his work at www.jeremybassetti.com.

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See other Europe travel stories from the archives
When The Truffle Hunters directors Michael Dweck and Gregory Kershaw visited a small town in North Italy, they had no idea theyd be stumbling upon a secret culture of, yes, truffle hunters.

Speaking to TheWraps Steve Pond at the virtual Toronto International Film Festival, Dweck explained that the duo had just finished the edit on their last film when he needed to find a place to relax. When he got to a small town in the Piedmont mountains, he knew he had found something magical.

The people kept saying, why are you here now? You should be here in November, Dweck explained. Its truffle season. I started to ask where these truffles come from  they wouldnt tell us.

Also Read: How a Small Film Slate at Toronto Film Festival Translated Into Big Sales

He added: Nobody really knew who these truffle hunters were. It was a secret culture and we were always fascinated by these subcultures that are kind of rare and on the edge of extinction and worth exploring.

Kershaw agreed, speaking to the magic of this little town.

Michael and I were both looking for places that have held on to their past, that have held on to a relationship with nature and that still have a sense of deep-seated community. This place had all of that. When we both came back from these trips, we both kept talking about this place as mysterious and magical and we knew there was a story that needed to be told there.

Also Read: 'Nomadland' Wins Audience Award at Toronto Film Festival

The Truffle Hunters delves into the stories of the 70 or 80-year-old men who hunt for the rare and expensive white Alba truffle, the value and demand of which increases year by year.

What they found is that these truffle hunters live the simple life, with no technology. Instead, theyve held on to traditions for hundreds of years. But the challenge was finding the actual truffle hunters and earning their trust.

Ultimately, though, we got to see the secrets, Kershaw said.

Story continues

The Truffle Hunters first premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January, and also screened at Cannes, Telluride and New York. Sony Pictures Classics bought the film at Sundance.

Watch the video above.

Read original story Michael Dweck, Gregory Kershaw on Discovering the Secret Culture of The Truffle Hunters (Video) At TheWrap
ATLANTA, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Amanda Yancey has been named the executive director of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's (LLS) Georgia - South Carolina Region, as of September 1, 2020. Yancey takes the position from Piper Medcalf, who was promoted to a national position within the organization.

Yancey joined LLS in 2011 with LLS's Team In Training campaign. Since then, she has held leadership positions in Advancement and in the fundraising campaigns Man & Woman of the Year and Students of the Year. Most recently, she was a senior director, responsible for overseeing three large campaigns in Atlanta with a combined revenue goal of over $4,000,000. During her tenure as senior director, Yancey had exceptional success growing corporate and volunteer leadership and experienced exponential revenue growth in all areas. In particular, she grew the Atlanta Man & Woman of the Year campaign from $1,100,000 to $2,400,000 and recruited and managed two national title winners, including the 2020 National LLS Man of the Year All-Star, who raised over $420,000.

In addition to LLS, Yancey worked as the development director for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, where she was responsible for their endurance programs and special events. Yancey graduated from Georgia College & State University with a Bachelors of Science in Psychology.

"I am thrilled for this opportunity to continue my career with LLS and honored that I was chosen to lead the strong team already in place in the Georgia - South Carolina Region. Together, we will move the LLS mission forward getting us closer to a world without cancer," said Yancey.

About The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is a global leader in the fight against cancer. The LLS mission: cure leukemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. LLS funds lifesaving blood cancer research around the world, provides free information and support services, and is the voice for all blood cancer patients seeking access to quality, affordable, coordinated care.

Founded in 1949 and headquartered in Rye Brook, NY, LLS has chapters throughout the United States and Canada. To learn more, visit www.LLS.org. Patients should contact the Information Resource Center at (800) 955-4572, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., ET.

The Georgia - South Carolina (GA-SC) Region of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, headquartered in Atlanta, helps those diagnosed with blood cancers with financial and emotional support through a variety of programs. including the Patti Robinson Kaufmann First Connection Program, the Susan Lang Pay-It-Forward Patient Travel Assistance Program, and the Urgent Need Program, which last year provided over $400,000 to patients region-wide. Currently, the GA-SC Region is funding $3.7 million towards research grants in multi-year agreements with Emory Winship Cancer Institute. Each year in the GA-SC Region, over 8,500 people are diagnosed with a blood cancer, and over 2,500 patients do not survive their disease.



Contact: Carey Stadler

[email protected] 404-720-7884

SOURCE The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS)
PLAYA VISTA, Calif., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Exer Urgent Care celebrates the grand opening of their 17th urgent care clinic, located in Playa Vista. The facility is an expansion to the clinics in the Los Angeles county, and Exer is excited to provide an increase of medical care in the Westside area. Exer provides the community a clinic built and staffed by ER doctors, offering patients more medical services than most urgent care centers, for a fraction of the cost.

"We're thrilled to expand into the Playa Vista area and we are looking forward to providing patients a place for care that's convenient, high-quality, and affordable," said Rob Mahan, CEO at Exer. "Our staff is experienced and passionate about serving our community and with our new protocols in place during the pandemic, we're proud to provide a safe and clean environment for patients to seek care."

Across Southern California, nearly one-third of all visits to hospital emergency departments are not true emergencies. As a result, hospitals are finding new ways to help patients access the care they need. Exer Urgent Care's mission is to become an essential part of every community, with welcoming facilities that are sanitized, clean, and safe for patients to visit.

"We want to ensure our patients get the medical attention they need by providing an ER alternative with easy access to a medical provider while easing the strain on emergency rooms," reiterated Mahan. "We strive to provide a place where patients can manage their health, especially during this time as healthcare systems are overburdened from COVID-19 related visits."

Exer Urgent Care is Southern California's fastest-growing ER alternative that's built and staffed by ER doctors and medical professionals. With on-site x-ray, IV, laceration and diagnostics, Exer offers patients more comprehensive medical services than a typical urgent care. To add to their services, Exer recently launched an online telehealth platform, VirtualCare by Exer, which allows patients real-time access to a medical provider via video chat. Each Exer Urgent Care location is helping to ease the strain on local emergency departments and now offers flu shots and COVID-19 testing with next day results. The recently launched patient portal allows access to test results as well as discharge and other health information, to those who register.

Exer Playa Vista is the 17th new clinic opening since the company began expanding in 2016. This location is available 7 days a week, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. with the last patient seen at 5:45 p.m. and Saturday to Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. with the last patient seen at 3:45 p.m.

The company has 17 locations across Southern California through Los Angeles and Ventura Counties including: Culver City, Camarillo, West Hills, Rolling Hills Estates, Westwood, La Canada Flintridge, Pasadena, Canyon Country, Westlake Village, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, Calabasas, Newbury Park, Northridge, Sherman Oaks and Stevenson Ranch, and Playa Vista. Exer accepts most PPOs, most HMOs, Medicare and offers affordable payment options for those with minimal or no health insurance.

For more information about Exer Urgent Care visit www.ExerUrgentCare.com and follow @ExerUrgentCare on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

ABOUT EXER URGENT CARE:

With 17 Southern California locations, Exer Urgent Care is staffed with ER doctors who provide premier medical services in a clean, convenient, high-quality and affordable urgent care environment to a growing number of communities throughout Southern California. With on-site pharmacy, lab, x-ray and more Exer can treat 80 percent of the cases seen in an ER for a fraction of the cost. VirtualCare by Exer provides patients real-time access to an Exer provider with no appointment necessary via video chat with a smartphone, tablet, or computer. For more information on Exer Urgent Care, visit ExerUrgentCare.com.

SOURCE Exer Urgent Care
California could become the first state in the US to offer reparations to black people Americans under new plans signed into law on Wednesday.

Seeking to make amends for the historic oppression of black people, officials have put together a detailed plan for potential reparations in a bill that was announced by governor Gavin Newsom.

The law does not stipulate that reparations must be cash payments. Support could come in the form of waiving student loans, paying for public projects or job training.

It does not limit reparations to slavery, although it requires a task force to give special consideration for black people who are descendants of slavery

This is not just about California, this is about making an impact, and a dent, across the rest of the country, governor Newsom said moments after signing the bill during a ceremony broadcast on his YouTube channel.

California never had a government-sanctioned system of slavery. It entered the Union in 1850 as a free state after gold was discovered in the Sierra Nevada mountains.

But the state did let slave-owning whites bring their slaves to California. The Legislature even passed a law making it legal to arrest runaway slaves and return them to their owners.

State legislatures in Texas, New York and Vermont have considered studying reparations, but none have passed measures.

Reparations are not without precedent in American. The US government partially funded German reparations to Holocaust victims following World War II.

Reparations for slavery have been debated for decades in the United States. A similar proposal to study reparations for black Americans was first introduced in Congress in 1989. It has never passed, but Congress held a hearing on the proposal last year.

And in 1988, the federal government set up a reparations program for Japanese-Americans who were held in concentration camps during World War II.

The news comes amid a wave of unrest in the US this year over the police killings of black Americas.

Protesters have been taking in place in some cities for months following the deaths of Breonna Taylor in Kentucky and George Floyd in Minneapolis, with demonstrators calling for greater race equality and an end to police misconduct.
Researchers in China and Switzerland have developed electronic blood vessels that can be actively tuned to address subtle changes in the body after implantation. The blood vessels--made of a metal-polymer conductor membrane that's flexible and biodegradable--mimic natural blood vessels, were conductive in in vitro experiments, and were able to effectively replace key arteries in rabbits. The research, published October 1 in the journal Matter, could overcome the limitations of conventional tissue engineered blood vessels (TEBVs), which serve as passive scaffolds, by coordinating with other electronic devices to deliver genetic material, enable controlled drug release, and facilitate the formation of new endothelial blood vessel tissue.

"We take the natural blood vessel-mimicking structure and go beyond it by integrating more comprehensive electrical functions that are able to provide further treatments, such as gene therapy and electrical stimulation," says lead author Xingyu Jiang, a researcher at Southern University of Science and Technology and the National Center for NanoScience and Technology in China.

Previous research has developed a variety of TEBVs that provide mechanical support for hard-to-treat blockages of tiny blood vessels in patients with cardiovascular disease. But these TEBVs have limitations: they cannot proactively assist in regenerating blood vessel tissue and, unlike natural tissue, often cause inflammation in response to blood flow. "None of the existing small-diameter TEBVs has met the demands of treating cardiovascular diseases," says Jiang.

To surpass the limitations of existing technologies, Jiang and colleagues fabricated biodegradable electronic blood vessels using a cylindrical rod to roll up a metal-polymer conductor membrane made from poly(L-lactide-co--caprolactone). They showed that, in the lab, electrical stimulation from the blood vessel increased the proliferation and migration of endothelial cells in a wound healing model, suggesting that electrical stimulation could facilitate the formation of new endothelial blood vessel tissue. The researchers also integrated the blood vessels' flexible circuitry with an electroporation device, which applies an electrical field to make cell membranes more permeable, and observed that the combined technologies successfully delivered green fluorescent protein DNA into three kinds of blood vessel cells in the lab.

Next, the researchers tested the device in New Zealand rabbits, replacing their carotid arteries - which supply blood to the brain, neck, and face - with electronic blood vessels. Jiang and colleagues monitored the implants using doppler ultrasound imaging over the course of three months, finding that the device allowed for sufficient blood flow the entire duration. Imaging tests that use X-rays and dye to peer inside arteries revealed that the artificial arteries appeared to function just as well as the natural ones had, with no sign of narrowing. When the researchers removed the implants and analyzed the rabbits' internal organs at the end of the three-month period, they discovered no evidence that the devices had produced an inflammatory response.

While these electronic blood vessels demonstrated promise as surrogate arteries in rabbits, Jiang acknowledges that more work must be done before the technology will be ready for human trials, including long-term safety tests in larger cohorts of rabbits and other animals. Additionally, in order to be suitable for long-term implantation, the electronic blood vessels would need to be paired with smaller electronics than the electroporation device used in this study.

"In the future, optimizations need be taken by integrating it with minimized devices, such as minimized batteries and built-in control systems, to make all the functional parts fully implantable and even fully bio-degradable in the body," says Jiang. The researchers also hope that this technology could someday be combined with artificial intelligence to collect and store detailed information on an individual's blood velocity, blood pressure, and blood glucose levels.

###

This study was supported by the National Key R&D Program of China, the National Natural Science Foundation of China, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, the Tencent Foundation through the XPLORER prize, the Beijing Science and Technology Plan Project, the Post- graduate Innovation Foundation of Peking Union Medical College, and the Teaching Reform Foundation of Postgraduate Education in Peking Union Medical College.

Matter, Cheng, Hang, and Ding et al.: "Electronic Blood Vessel" https://www.cell.com/matter/fulltext/S2590-2385(20)30493-8

Matter (@Matter_CP), published by Cell Press, is a new journal for multi-disciplinary, transformative materials sciences research. Papers explore scientific advancements across the spectrum of materials development--from fundamentals to application, from nano to macro. Visit: https://www.cell.com/matter. To receive Cell Press media alerts, please contact press@cell.com.
Its a fundraising contest decided by the live audience. So, what to do when theres no audience?

For Lip Sync Battle Niagara organizer Amy Layton, its all in the thumbs.

Held Wednesday night, the fifth annual event in support of Womens Place of South Niagara used the thumbs up symbol from hundreds of online viewers to decide the winner.

When the glitter settled, Niagaras Cathalina Overholt lip synced to Rick Spingfield and Pink to beat out seven challengers at Greg Frewin Theatre.

But for Layton, a Niagara Falls realtor, the real prize was $3,475 raised during the pandemic for Womens Place. Online viewers of the event were asked to donate a minimum of $20 to watch and vote.

The highlight for me was seeing my sister in the Zoom room on the big screens, waving to her and watching her have a great time, said Layton. I do this event in her honour as shes a survivor of domestic violence and this is the first time shes been able to see the show.

From the start, the pandemic played havoc with the show. Normally held in November, Layton pushed to have it earlier in the event the province goes into lockdown again.

With many businesses struggling, she was worried she wouldnt get local sponsors. A handful came through, allowing the show to be livestreamed through Niagara company WeeStreem.

Once it started, the two-hour show had hundreds of viewers across Canada and dozens in the U.S.

One person even told me it was great to see her family member as well as they live out of town and they havent been able to see much of them lately, said Layton. That really touched me.

Layton expected the pandemic-affected show to raise about $2,000 and it nearly doubled that.

Just connect with people in your community and youll find those who are just as willing to help do something as you are. Every time.

Layton was overwhelmed after the event.

Our community of Niagara, and beyond, put their opinions and drama away for one night and all came together to support those women and children who are trying to escape domestic violence, she said.

People can still donate to the event until Oct. 8 by emailing amylayton@royallepage.ca.
Brandi Wilkins once went a week without water at her house.

And I would never wish something like that on my worst enemy, she said.

I had to go to my moms to take a shower and wash clothes. I have two teenage girls who couldnt do their hair or makeup. You couldnt wash your face, flush commodes  it was hard. It was stressful. You cant live without water.

She isnt sure why her water was turned off  the Western Virginia Water Authority said it has no record of Wilkins water being disconnected, although she had an unpaid water bill from years earlier and she had failed to pay a connection deposit at her new place. The COVID-19 pandemic added to her financial worries. Her fulltime job with the nonprofit Total Action for Progress was reduced to 20 hours a week, but bills kept piling up.

She and her daughters were left high and dry until they received help from the water authoritys assistance program called Authority Cares.

They were just awesome, Wilkins said of the program.

Wilkins, 35, is far from alone when it comes to people struggling to pay their water bill during the pandemic crisis.

The number of Western Virginia Water Authority customers who are behind on their water bills has tripled during the COVID-19 pandemic. As of this week, 1,053 households in the Roanoke Valley face potential water cutoffs, were it not for a short-term moratorium on disconnections implemented by the water authority, with more than 900 of those in Roanoke. The rest are spread among water authority customers in Roanoke, Franklin and Botetourt counties.

Even though that number accounts for just 1.6% of the authoritys approximately 62,000 customers, the number is considerably higher than the same period in 2019 when 362 households were behind and faced disconnections. The current delinquencies add up to $295,983.88 in past-due debt, according to authority spokesperson Sarah Baumgardner.

There has been a steady progression of people falling behind on their bills, said Mike McEvoy, the Western Virginia Water Authoritys executive director.

People with overdue bills could have had their water turned off by now, except that the authority placed a moratorium on most disconnections as the pandemic spread this spring and summer. The water authority has not set a date for disconnections to resume, but delinquent customers are being contacted and told of options for getting bills paid off.

The biggest support program is Authority Cares, which was established in 2017 and offers delinquent customers up to $300 in pledges to pay off a monthly water bill. People can receive two pledges a year, and they can apply for a third month if they participate in a United Way-sponsored financial program that would help them solve their household expenses and budgeting problems, Baumgardner said.

Authority Cares gets its money from a portion of insurance policies sold by HomeServe, a company that began working with the water authority in 2017 to offer customers coverage for external water lines, sewer lines and internal plumbing. Currently, Authority Cares has about $190,000 available for customers.

Roanoke also kicked in an additional $100,000 from federal funds the city received from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act. Roanoke County and Franklin County also earmarked some CARES Act funds for assistance with utility bills.

The city must spend its CARES Act money by the end of the year, so water authority customers who need help are encouraged to apply soon, Baumgardner said. The water authority, however, will return any unspent CARES Act money to the city on Dec. 11, so applications for Authority Cares funds should be made before then.

Paying off a water bill is significant for individuals and families, because overdue water bills typically indicate deeper financial problems.

If youre having trouble paying your water bill, youre having trouble paying other bills because water is the lowest, Baumgardner said.

The water authority is not regulated by the State Corporation Commission, which has suspended regulated utility service disconnections until Oct. 5.

Wilkins, who has received a total of $385 from Authority Cares to cover past-due water bills, also needed assistance with electricity bills, she said. The pandemic has also brought additional expenses, such as pricey high-speed internet that her daughters need for online education.

I cant get the cheap package, said Wilkins, who pays $115 per month for Cox internet service so that daughters Rhonda, 15, and Bethanie, 14, can do all their schooling virtually at home during the pandemic.

The fact that her work hours have been cut in half during the pandemic has exacerbated financial stress, she said. Expenses for groceries, utilities and gasoline add up, not to mention the girls still had to pay certain school fees even though all their classes are online.

Its really hard for single mothers not to be able to work, Wilkins said. I dont have money lying around saved.

Even individuals with relatively low water bills are struggling. Margaret Payne, 54, is a former home health care provider who was injured on a job in 2001 and receives a monthly disability insurance payment of $618. Even though the amount of her monthly check hasnt changed and her water bill only runs about $50 a month, she missed a payment earlier this summer because she had given some money to relatives who were in need because of pandemic-related financial problems.

Ive been checking on family members, said Payne, who lives on Hanover Avenue in northwest Roanoke. Im a very giving person. I try to help if I can. I help with food or utilities if they really need it and go lacking myself.

She tried conservation, but that wasnt enough to allow her to make her monthly payment.

I tried not to use as much, Payne said. I kept using a little less, a little less, a little less.

Eventually, she received help from Authority Cares to cover her missed payment. The one-time pledge allowed her to balance her monthly budget, she said.

If they werent there, I would have had trouble with my utilities, Payne said. I had to rely on extra help since the pandemic has made things worse. Money is kind of at a standstill these days.

Many of the customers who apply for Authority Cares assistance come through the citys Central Intake office, which helps people who are homeless or could be at risk of becoming homeless. Usually, the program is geared for households that make less than half of the Area Median Income, but the water authority expanded eligibility to people whose jobs and finances were hurt by the pandemic.

The authority also works with United Way, Roanoke Area Ministries, Council of Community Services and the Department of Social Services to help people obtain pledges to pay off overdue bills. Central Intake has seen an increase in numbers of people needing assistance with monthly rent and utility bills.

Most of those coming in are in a crisis, especially due to COVID said Sandy Peggins, an intake specialist for the city who worked with both Wilkins and Payne. Theyve had a loss of a job, a loss of hours, a loss of daycare. Being able to listen to them is one of the important things. They need to be heard and shown care and compassion.

Wilkins, who went through Central Intake to apply for assistance, said that kind of personal touch made asking for help easier.

She got to know me on a personal level, Wilkins said. They dont treat you like youre poor. They treat you like youre somebody.

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Ford's CFO will depart later this month and be replaced by a longtime company executive

Ford's chief financial officer will leave this month after less than two years on the job to take on a senior role with an artificial intelligence company, the automaker announced Thursday.

Tim Stone, who was named Ford's CFO in March 2019 after a long career at Amazon and other technology companies, will leave the automaker on October 15 to work as chief operating officer and chief financial officer at software company ASAPP Inc., Ford said in a news release.

Ford, which has suffered through manufacturing stumbles in recent years that have hurt profitability at times, named long-time executive John Lawler as Stone's successor.

Lawler most recently led Ford's autonomous vehicles division and has held posts in finance and general management.

"John knows our company inside-out, has a clear a view and great ambition for what Ford can be, and articulates what's needed to get there," said Chief Executive Jim Farley. "As CFO, he will assure we have the means to fund those ambitions."

Thursday was Farley's first day as CEO after being named to the role in August by the 117-year-old auto giant. His appointment comes as Ford pushes ahead with a slate of new electric vehicles around the world following a major corporate restructuring.

jmb/dw
SAO PAULO, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Natura &Co (NYSE: NTCO and B3: NTCO3) today announced that it has commenced a global offering of approximately R$6,207.2 million (US$1,106.3 million), based on a price of R$51.13 per share, corresponding to the closing price of the common shares on the Novo Mercado segment of the Sao Paulo Stock Exchange (B3 S.A.  Brasil, Bolsa, Balcao) on September 30, 2020. The global offering consists of (i) an international offering of common shares, including in the form of American Depositary Shares ("ADSs"), in the United States and elsewhere outside of Brazil by the international underwriters and (ii) a concurrent offering of common shares in Brazil, and is expected to be priced on October 8, 2020. ADSs represent two common shares of Natura &Co.

We intend to use the net proceeds of this offering to: (1) support investments to accelerate our growth over the next three years aimed at shaping the future in a more sustainable and inclusive way, primarily in the following strategic areas: (a) Avon integration and turnaround, focusing on a new commercial model, innovation and brand rejuvenation; (b) digitalization of the business by expanding social selling, including new features and services; (c) geographic opportunities leveraging existing footprint; and (d) 2030 Commitment to Life agenda, mainly related to Carbon net Zero Program, progressing in circularity of our packaging and ingredients and developing a more diverse and inclusive workforce while improving quality of life of our network; and (2) optimize our capital structure by accelerating deleveraging and reducing our U.S. dollar-denominated debt and eliminating restrictive covenants.

The offering is being conducted pursuant to a registration statement on Form F-3 filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC, on the date hereof, which automatically became effective upon filing, and an accompanying preliminary prospectus supplement filed with the SEC on the date hereof. The registration statement on Form F-3 and the accompanying preliminary prospectus supplement may be accessed through the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.

BofA Securities, Morgan Stanley, Bradesco Securities, Inc., Citigroup, and Itau BBA USA Securities, Inc. will serve as international underwriters with respect to the offering of the ADSs and as placement agents on behalf of the Brazilian placement agents with respect to the placement of common shares sold outside of Brazil, not in the form of ADSs.. When available, a copy of the prospectus and the accompanying preliminary prospectus supplement relating to the offering may be obtained from BofA Securities, Attention: Prospectus Department, NC1-004-03-43, 200 North College Street, 3rd floor, Charlotte, NC 28255-0001, or by emailing [email protected]; Morgan Stanley, Attention: Prospectus Department, 180 Varick Street, 2nd Floor, New York, New York 10014; Bradesco Securities, Inc., Attention: 450 Park Avenue, New York, New York 10022; Citigroup, Attention: c/o Broadridge Financial Solutions, 1155 Long Island Avenue, Edgewood, New York 11717, or by telephone at 1-800-831-9146; and Itau BBA USA Securities, Inc., Attention: 540 Madison Avenue 24th Floor, New York, New York 10022, Attention: Equity Sales Desk, or by telephone: 1-212-710-6756, or by emailing [email protected].

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy the securities described herein, nor will there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

About Natura &Co

Natura &Co is a global, purpose-driven, multi-channel and multi-brand cosmetics group which includes Avon, Natura, The Body Shop and Aesop. Natura &Co posted net revenues of R$ 14.4 billion in 2019 and R$32.9 billion on a proforma basis, including Avon. The four companies that form the group are committed to generating positive economic, social and environmental impact. For 130 years Avon has stood for women: providing innovative, quality beauty products which are primarily sold to women, through women. Founded in 1969, Natura is a Brazilian multinational in the cosmetics and personal care segment, leader in direct sales. Founded in 1976 in Brighton, England, by Anita Roddick, The Body Shop is a global beauty brand that seeks to make a positive difference in the world. The Australian beauty brand Aesop was established in 1987 with a quest to create a range of superlative products for skin, hair and the body.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the U.S. federal securities laws. Statements contained herein that are not clearly historical in nature are forward-looking, and the words "anticipate," "believe," "continues," "expect," "estimate," "intend," "project" and similar expressions and future or conditional verbs such as "will," "would," "should," "could," "might," "can," "may," or similar expressions are generally intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof and are based on Natura &Co's current plans, estimates of future events, expectations and trends that affect or may affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flow, liquidity, prospects and the trading price of our ADSs and common shares, and are subject to several known and unknown uncertainties and risks, many of which are beyond Natura &Co's control. As a consequence, current plans, anticipated actions and future financial position and results of operations may differ significantly from those expressed in any forward-looking statements in this press release. You are cautioned not to unduly rely on such forward-looking statements when evaluating the information presented. None of Natura &Co or the international underwriters undertakes any obligation to update publicly or to revise any forward-looking statements after we distribute this press release because of new information, future events or other factors. Our independent public auditors have neither examined nor compiled the forward-looking statements and, accordingly, do not provide any assurance with respect to such statements. In light of the risks and uncertainties described above, the future events and circumstances discussed in this press release might not occur and are not guarantees of future performance. Because of these uncertainties, you should not make any investment decision based upon these estimates and forward-looking statements.

Contacts



Investors:

Natura

[email protected]

Viviane Behar de Castro: +55 (11) 4389 7881



Media:



Brunswick Group

NATURA&[email protected]



U.S.

Katharine Cralle: +1 (917) 238 6191



Brazil

Roberta Lippi: +55 (11) 992 499 277

Natasha Bonomi: +55 (11) 993 478 905

SOURCE Natura &Co

Related Links

http://natura.net/


Health Canada has given the green light to a rapid test for coronavirus, but experts say people shouldnt expect the testing backlog  and lineups  will disappear anytime soon.

Its sort of sold as reducing the backlog, Dr. Zain Chagla, an infectious disease specialist with McMaster University, said about the newly approved ID Now test. Im uncomfortable with this. I dont think this is going to significantly reduce the backlog by any means.

It is nice to have another tool to get people tested, but this is probably not the test thats going to change the provincial testing queues altogether.

Ottawa announced Wednesday it approved the test developed by Abbott Laboratories, which can deliver results in less than 15 minutes of a patient being swabbed, without having to first send the sample to a lab for processing.

Neither the company nor the federal government will be more specific about when the test kits will start arriving, other than the coming weeks.

The approval came a day after the federal government announced it had signed a deal to buy nearly eight million of the tests from the U.S.-based company, pending Health Canada approval, as well as 3,800 of the analyzer machines that process the results.

The ID Now test has been approved and used in the United States since the end of March under an emergency authorization, but not without controversy. Several clinical studies have since raised concerns over its accuracy, though others concluded with more favourable results.

If you look at some of the literature that has come out around this machine, it does miss some positives, noted Chagla. From reading the U.S. experiences, people who are still having symptoms after a negative test are recommended to get another test.

Theres limitation with this machine but its better than nothing at this point.

According to an Abbott spokesperson, the test needs to be administered by a trained health-care provider.

A swab is taken either from the nose or the back of the throat, and then mixed with a chemical solution that can recognize a unique section of the Coronavirus genome, while ignoring other viruses even if theyre similar strains, the spokesperson told the Star in an email.

ID NOW delivers reliable results in minutes, rather than hours or days, on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic with accuracy rates as high as 94.7% compared to lab-based PCR reference tests in the acute phase of illness.

Dr. Andrew Morris, an infectious disease specialist at Sinai Health and University Health Network, called the approval of the rapid test welcome but not a surprise. The test has been approved in almost every jurisdiction where theres been an application, he said.

The question now is when these tests are going to arrive.

Other countries and the World Health Organization have also purchased them, and its not clear where we are in the pecking order, Morris said.

Inevitably its going to help us but we really needed it several weeks ago to avoid our backlog, he said.

The province also needs to figure out how the new tests will be used as part of a larger strategy, which should include surveillance, screening and diagnostic testing.

Thats something weve been really challenged by, Morris said. This will expand our capacity for testing, it probably wont be used in the highest stakes, because almost certainly its quality is not going to be as good as the gold-standard PCR test.

While the rapid test can relieve the pressure on the back end of the testing process at labs, Chagla said people still need to go through the same registration at COVID assessment centres and line up to get tested.

Local health authorities need to take a look at what their testing needs are and how the test can meet those needs.

The rapid test works best in remote areas where test centres and labs are far and apart, for asymptomatic people and at high-risk workplaces where routine testing is called for, said Chagla.

We need to develop a system to determine who is best for what test, Chagla said.

Dr. Isaac Bogoch, an infectious disease specialist at the University Health Network, said the approval will provide incremental help and is an excellent move but not a silver bullet.

It might be particularly helpful in remote or northern communities that are far from labs, for some workplace outbreaks, or even in underserved urban neighbourhoods that have been hard hit by COVID, to remove barriers to testing.

The newly approved rapid ID NOW test is not to be confused with antigen tests, which test proteins on the surface of the virus. Health Canada said Tuesday its still reviewing those.

The goal, said Bogoch, would be a rapid antigen test that you could do at home, before heading to work or school, similar to a pregnancy test.

If it was positive, he said, it would trigger a more formal test at the centre. But in the meantime it would let you know not to go to work and to isolate, to avoid infecting others.
The OPEC+ group raised their total seaborne exports in September to 22.84 million barrels per day (bpd) from 22.11 million bpd in August, but the alliance stayed within its agreed ceiling, IHS Markit data and analysis showed on Thursday.

OPECs crude oil shipments rose last month to 18.2 million bpd, up from 17.53 million bpd exported on tankers in August, according to data from IHS Markit Commodities at Sea.

Saudi Arabias shipments have recovered from the lows in June, when they were below 5 million bpd, and returned to above 6.25 million bpd in September, close to the levels last observed in March 2020, before the Saudis flooded the world with oil in April in the brief price war with Russia, wrote Fotios Katsoulas, Liquid Bulk Principal Analyst, Maritime & Trade at IHS Markit, and Raj Rajendran, Principal Journalist, OPIS.

Year to date, Saudi Arabias crude oil exports were basically flat year over year, at an average of 6.25 million bpd, according to IHS Markit data.

The key Saudi partner in the OPEC+ alliance, Russia, saw its exports edge up to 3.59 million bpd in September from 3.52 million bpd in August, amid a drop in domestic demand.

The UAE busted its quota in August and September, with crude oil shipments also rising, according to IHS Markit Commodities at Sea data. The UAE shipped 2.54 million bpd and 2.61 million bpd in August and September, respectivelya lot more than around 2.1 million bpd exported in May and June.

Venezuela and Libya, exempted from the OPEC+ agreement, saw their shipments increase in September compared to August, and Libya is set to continue to boost production and crude oil exports if the truce there holds.

At current forecast levels of 300,000-400,000 b/d, it is not likely to cause too much concern to OPEC+, whose focus is on compliance and compensation, IHS Markit said, commenting on Libyas ability to ramp up production.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
In yet another boost to Make in India, the Ministry of Defence on Thursday signed a contract worth Rs 409 crore with a Nagpur-based company for the supply of 10,00,000 multi-mode hand grenades to the Indian Army. The contract was signed by the Acquisition Wing of Defence Ministry.

These grenades will replace the hand grenade design of World War-II vintage, in use with the Indian Army. The grenades have a distinctive design and can be used in both offensive and defensive modes.

A statement read, "Providing a further boost to the Make in India initiative of Government of India in the Defence Sector, Acquisition Wing of Ministry of Defence (MoD) today signed a contract with M/s Economic Explosive Ltd (EEL), (Solar Group) Nagpur for the supply of 10,00,000 Multi-Mode Hand Grenades to the Indian Army at an approximate cost of Rs 409 Crores. These grenades will be replacing the hand grenade design of World War-II vintage, in use with the Indian Army."

"The multi-mode hand grenade has been designed by DRDO/Terminal Ballistic Research Laboratories (TBRL) and is being produced by M/s EEL, Nagpur. The grenades have a distinctive design, in that, they can be used in both Offensive and Defensive Modes," the statement added.

"This is a flagship project showcasing public-private partnership under the aegis of Government of India (DRDO & MoD) enabling AtmaNirbharta in cutting edge ammunition technologies and accomplishes 100 per cent indigenous content," it further added.
The hostile environment for immigrants will remain in place until at least 2022, an improvement plan issued by Priti Patel suggests.

The home secretary was told to publish a timely review of the policy, after the Windrush scandal exposed its devastating effects  a recommendation she accepted in the summer.

But the new document gives no commitment to scrapping any measures, while arguing action has already been taken to ensure such a scandal never happens again.

And it hints any legal changes will be delayed, by stating: Initial analysis of data and evidence on the compliant environment will be completed by autumn 2021.

Long-term evaluation will be ongoing, and timescales will be determined by the outcomes from the initial analysis.

This week, ministers ploughed ahead with one of the most controversial measures  the Right to Rent scheme, which made landlords responsible for immigration checks  by moving it online.

Two years on from the Windrush scandal and it appears the Home Secretary is still doing woefully little to right the wrongs that led to it, said Satbir Singh, chief executive of the Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants:

Priti Patels statement speaks of regret and building a more compassionate Home Office, while committing to no specific actions which would actually prevent an injustice like Windrush from happening again.

In April 2018, the Windrush scandal engulfed Theresa May, forcing her to apologise  in front of Commonwealth leaders  for the harsh impact of her policies as home secretary.

Windrush generation: threat of deportation from UK Show all 15 1 /15 Windrush generation: threat of deportation from UK Windrush generation: threat of deportation from UK The ex-troopship 'Empire Windrush' arriving at Tilbury Docks from Jamaica, with 482 Jamaicans on board, emigrating to Britain. Getty Windrush generation: threat of deportation from UK Jamaican immigrants being welcomed by RAF officials from the Colonial Office after the ex-troopship 'Empire Windrush' landed them at Tilbury. PA Windrush generation: threat of deportation from UK Alford Gardner who arrived in Britain in 1948 on the first Windrush ship to dock in Tilbury, Essex, speaking at his home in Leeds PA Windrush generation: threat of deportation from UK Alford Gardner in Leeds shortly after he arrived in Britain in 1948 on the first Windrush ship to dock in Tilbury, Essex PA Windrush generation: threat of deportation from UK Gardner was 22 years old when he boarded the ship in Kingston, Jamaica, with his brother Gladstone before they and hundreds of Caribbean migrants called on to rebuild post-war Britain disembarked the ship in Tilbury Docks PA Windrush generation: threat of deportation from UK Alford Gardner (right), during his RAF service in 1947 PA Windrush generation: threat of deportation from UK The son of Ruth Williams, a Windrush-generation immigrant, wants to the leave the country after threats of deportation. According to his mother, Mr Haynes applied for British citizenship in 2016 but was rejected, despite Ms Williams having lived in the UK almost permanently since arriving from St Vincent and the Grenadines in 1959. Ruth Williams, 75, said she felt "betrayed" by Britain after the Home Office twice turned down applications for her 35-year-old son, Mozi Haynes, to remain in the country. Ms Williams is understood to have cancer and said she relies heavily on her son for support. PA Windrush generation: threat of deportation from UK The British liner 'Empire Windrush' at port in 1954. Getty Windrush generation: threat of deportation from UK Ruth Williams, 75, with her British passport. "I feel betrayed and a second class citizen in my own country," she said. "This makes me so sad and the Home Office must show some compassion. "I am unwell and almost 75, I live on my own and I need my son to stay here. I need my family around me and I cant face being alone. He has applied to the Home Office and been refused twice." PA Windrush generation: threat of deportation from UK From the top, hopeful Jamaican boxers Charles Smith, Ten Ansel, Essi Reid, John Hazel, Boy Solas and manager Mortimer Martin arrive at Tilbury on the Empire Windrush in the hope of finding work in Britain. Getty Windrush generation: threat of deportation from UK Jamaicans reading a newspaper whilst on board the ex-troopship 'Empire Windrush' bound for Tilbury docks in Essex. Getty Windrush generation: threat of deportation from UK After half a century in Britain, Anthony Bryan decided it was time to go abroad. But the decision set off a nightmare that saw him lose his job, detained twice and almost deported to Jamaica. AFP/Getty Windrush generation: threat of deportation from UK Jamaica-born Anthony Bryan poses outside his home in Edmonton, north London. Now 60 and a grandfather, Bryan thought the issue could be resolved swiftly, as he legally moved to Britain with his family as part of the Windrush generation of Caribbean migrants after World War II. In 1948, the ship Windrush brought the first group of migrants from the West Indies to help rebuild post-war Britain, and many others followed from around the Commonwealth. A 1971 law gave them indefinite leave to remain, but many never formalised their status, often because they were children who came over on their parents' passports and then never applied for their own. AFP/Getty Windrush generation: threat of deportation from UK Three Jamaican immigrants (left to right) John Hazel, a 21-year-old boxer, Harold Wilmot, 32, and John Richards, a 22-year-old carpenter, arriving at Tilbury on board the ex-troopship 'Empire Windrush', smartly dressed in zoot suits and trilby hats. Getty Windrush generation: threat of deportation from UK Newly arrived Jamaican immigrants on board the 'Empire Windrush' at Tilbury in 1948. Getty

British citizens had been deported, detained, sacked from their jobs and made homeless because they could not provide correct documents to employers, landlords and the NHS acting as de facto border guards.

Back in July, in a Commons statement, Ms Patel had promised sweeping reforms to the culture and working practices in the much-criticised Home Office.

"I have tasked my officials to undertake a full evaluation of the compliant environment policy and measures, individually and cumulatively, to make sure the crucial balance is right, she told MPs.

Pledging that immigration and nationality laws would be made fit for purpose, she vowed: Have no doubt, where we find problems, I will seek to fix them.

The lessons learned review, carried out by Wendy Williams, had demanded an evaluation of each measure to assess whether they are effective and proportionate in meeting their stated aim, given the risks inherent in the policy.

But the improvement plan now argues better decision-making and the introduction of new safeguards in our data-sharing processes means another Windrush has already been prevented.

On Right to Rent and the similar Right to Work scheme, where employers carry out checks, it points to better information on government websites.

All Home Office staff will be trained on race history in the UK, including Britain's colonial past, the history of black Britons and migration.
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / JNC Resources Inc. (CSE:JNC) ("JNC" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the results of a rock sampling program at our Imperial Project which is located 18 miles northeast of one of the largest gold producers in Goldfield, Nevada in the Silver Peak District.

"We are extremely pleased with the rock samples at our Imperial Project in Nevada. With grades as high as 16.65 g/t we are now ready to formulate our fully funded, permit ready, drill program anticipated for Q4 2020. The test grids have identified large and open gold in soil anomalies that further support the potential for large and continuous gold bearing vein targets through the area" stated CEO, Michael Mulberry.

Six selected rock samples were collected at surface to help target the upcoming drill program. Grades as high as 16.65 g/t Au were found along the main, southeast trending Imperial fault structure, with up to 2.25 g/t Au seen on a northeast trending structure. The lowest result was from a sample taken from a prospect pit on a color anomaly across the canyon, which yielded 0.98 g/t Au.

The sampling was concentrated in areas of surface mineralization occurring beyond the limits of the fault zone that offsets the known mineralization. This is suggestive of the potential that the mineralization extends past the fault that stopped the original Imperial adit, which has subsequently influenced drill hole planning. The 2.25 g/t Au sample also shows strong potential for gold along northeast trending structures as well, some of which have gold enriched jasperoids outcropping at surface. While barely under one g/t Au, the sample across the canyon also shows potential for further gold bearing structures along the property.

Below is a chart of the assay results and their rough locations:

Name Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Location ISN-1 2.25 12 Jasperoid on NE trending structure roughly 700m east of post mineral fault ISN-2 5.78 <5 Vein material roughly 200 meters east of post mineral fault on Imperial structure ISN-3 9.95 14 Vein material roughly 100 meters east of post mineral fault on Imperial structure ISN-4 16.65 14 Vein material roughly 70 meters east of post mineral fault on Imperial structure ISN-5 3.37 14 Vein material roughly 50 meters west of post mineral fault on Imperial structure ISN-6 0.98 <5 Sample of color anomaly on hillside 65 meters south of main Imperial structure



Please note: Rock samples are selective by nature and may not represent the true grade of style of mineralization across the property

Qualified Persons

Warren Robb, P.Geo., is the qualified person for the Company as defined in National Instrument 43-101 and has reviewed the technical information presented within this news release.

About JNC Resources Inc.

JNC is a North American-based junior venture mineral exploration company with a goal to develop under-explored properties and benefit from deal flow generated by strategic partnerships and growth opportunities. Currently the Company is developing its 100% optioned Triple 9 Project in South Central British Columbia. The Triple 9 Project is a gold property with a new discovery of high levels of base metals, located 20 km from the town of Sicamous. JNC also has an option agreement with Great Basin Resources to acquire 100% control and interest in the Imperial Project in Nevada. The Imperial Property is located in Esmeralda County, Nevada, which has been a prolific mining area in the state. The Property is in close proximity to the town of Goldfields, where gold production occurred in the early part of the 20th century.

For further information please contact:

Michael Mulberry

T: 778-855-5001

info@jncresources.com

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur.

Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in applicable forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results, performance or developments to differ materially from those contained in such statements.

NEITHER THE CANADIAN SECURITIES EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

SOURCE: JNC Resources Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/608626/JNC-Resources-Announces-Rock-Sample-Results-from-the-Imperial-Project-in-Nevada
The Supreme Court on October 1, approved the government's scheme to refund tickets booked during the lockdown, an issue that had led to a lot of angst among passengers.

Instead of refunding the tickets, airlines had created a credit shell that the customers could use, but with conditions attached.

Nishant Pitti of EaseMyTrip in a statement to Moneycontrol, simplifies the Apex Court's order and tells how it meets some of the concerns of all the stakeholders - customers, airlines and OTAs.

How customers benefit

If a passenger had booked a ticket during the lockdown period - from March 25 to May 25, when domestic flights resumed - and the booking was done either on an airline website or through an OTA, she will get a refund of the full amount. This is applicable for both, domestic and international air travel.

If she had booked on an OTA site, then the agency will refund the amount.

On the other hand, if the passenger had booked the ticket - irrespective of the time - but for travel from May 25, the refund of fares to the passengers covered under this category shall be governed by the provisions of Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR). The guideline applies for international travel, booked on Indian or foreign carriers.

Interestingly, the Court also provides for a compensation that a passenger can avail on the credit shell. "In all cases where credit shell is issued there shall be an incentive to compensate the passenger from the date of cancellation up to 30th June, 2020 in which event the credit shell shall be enhanced by 0.5 percent of the face value (the amount of fare collected) for every month or part thereof between the date of cancellation and 30th June, 2020. Thereafter the value of the credit shell shall be enhanced by 0.75 percent of the face value per month up to March 31, 2021," Pitti said, citing the order.

The larger question though is if the compensation is fair enough, or not.

For airline

At the same time, says Nitti, the Supreme Court has taken into note if an airline is facing financial distress and can't immediately refund tickets. In this case, the airline can use the credit shell mechanism.

The credit shell has to be used by the passenger on or before March 31, 2021.

"It is open to the passenger either to utilize such credit shell up to 31st March, 2021 on any route of his choice or the passenger can transfer the credit shell to any person including the travel agent through whom he / she has booked the ticket and the airlines shall honour such a transfer," Pitti says, quoting the Supreme Court order.

In other words, the passenger can transfer the ticket to someone else, and can use the credit shell to travel on any route, and not just on which she had originally booked the ticket.

The concerned airline will have to honour this guidelines by devising a

mechanism to facilitate such a transfer.

For travel agencies

The Supreme Court has allowed, says Pitti, for the travel agencies through whom the ticket has been booked, to use the credit shell for third party use. In other words, the ticket holder can transfer the ticket to another person, through a travel agent.

Only the original travel agent can use the credit shell for further booking.
On September 22, a massive fire ripped through American Axle and Manufacturings plant in Malvern, Ohio, causing extensive damage and temporarily shutting down production. All employees were evacuated safely. There were no injuries or deaths.

One hundred and twenty firefighters from 18 fire departments from the surrounding counties of Carroll, Stark and Columbiana worked for 13 hours to put out the blaze. Some nearby businesses and the local school system were forced to close for the day as black smoke blanketed the area. The local water supply was directed fully toward the firefighters efforts, resulting in little to no water pressure for surrounding homes and businesses.

Fire burns at AAMs Malvern plant (Source: Superhope Willochell via Facebook)

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but the fire appears to have been sparked by a hydraulic press and fed by hydraulic fluid, and then spread quickly throughout the facility. While American Axle and Manufacturing reports that it has yet to assess the full damages, it is estimated that the fire caused millions of dollars in damages to both products and the building itself. The plant is currently closed until further notice.

In rural Carroll County, where 53 percent of the workforce commutes outside of the county for work, the Malvern plant is the countys largest private employer. While some employees are currently engaged in the clean-up for the plant, most are in limbo, unemployed and given no information on when or if the plant will reopen.

American Axle and Manufacturing (AAM) was formed in 1994 when General Motors spun off much of its parts plants to private investors. Based in Detroit, Michigan, AAM has plants in 90 countries across the world, employing an estimated 20,000 people and producing a variety of parts for passenger cars, trucks and commercial vehicles.

The Malvern plant has 276 employees and produces forged transmission shafts, hypoid drive pinions, propeller shafts, transmission gears and wheel spindles for both automotive and nonautomotive use. In total, the Malvern plant generated $100 million in profits for American Axle and Manufacturing last year. The Malvern plant supplies a large amount of parts to General Motors. In 2019, roughly 37 percent of the plants business was with General Motors. While it is not yet clear which GM vehicles or plants will be most affected, the significant damage to a major parts plant will impact GM production.

As with the auto parts industry as a whole, which was converted by a series of bankruptcies and divestitures beginning the 1980s into an ultra-low wage sector, conditions at AAM are exceptionally poor, far below even the disastrous conditions at the major automakers' assembly plants. Wages for auto parts workers are also on the decline. Between 2003 and 2013, auto parts workers saw a 14 percent decline in real wages, triple the speed of losses compared to manufacturing as a whole.

The Malvern plant is a unionized facility, organized under the United Auto Workers (UAW). Unsafe conditions at auto parts plants across the country are primarily the responsibility of the UAW union who betrayed a series of strikes in the parts industry in the 1980s and 1990s in order to lower costs and boost profits of auto corporations.

A 2008 strike by AAM workers was sold out by the United Auto Workers, which forced through a new contract slashing wages from $28 to as low as $10 per hour. This betrayal paved the way for the closure of AAM's largest US plant in Hamtramck. An empty concrete lot is all the remains of the plant in the Detroit enclave.

The coronavirus pandemic has also spread widely throughout North American parts plants, as workers are being forced to work weekends and overtime to make up for widespread absences. Although the true extent of the virus unknown due to an information blackout by the parts companies, major outbreaks have occurred already at the Faurecia Gladstone and Lear Hammond plants in Indiana, DENSO's plant in Battle Creek, Michigan and maquiladora plants in northern Mexico.

Ten fatal workplace injuries occurred in the auto parts industry in 2018, the last year in which statistics are available from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That year also saw a fire which sparked several explosions at the Eaton Rapids, Michigan Meridian Magnesium plant, injuring two workers. At the time, workers in Facebook groups confirmed that plants from Kansas City to Tuscaloosa, Alabama were experiencing temporary layoffs due to lack of parts previously produced by Meridian.

The Meridian Magnesium workers were only paid for two work days following the incident. Those who were not hired as part of the clean up crew were transferred to other units far from their homes and families or simply laid-off.

After such accidents, the parts companies force workers to shoulder the financial burden of workplace accidents in the form of layoffs, even though the accidents themselves are a result of cost cutting and managerial negligence of basic plant safety. [Parts workers] just had their hands up and said, What do we do? We dont have any place to go to work, Malvern Mayor Robert DeLong told the Columbus Dispatch. Theyre dumbfounded. Its devastating.

The Malvern plantlike the Michigan Meridian Magnesium planthas a history of safety violations. In 2011, the plant was cited for four safety violations by the U.S. Department of Labor. One citation was a repeat violation for failing to set-up lockouts for hydraulic presses that are not in use. Without such an arrangement, the hydraulic presses could operate unintentionally, causing significant injurysuch as amputationor death to workers.

The other violations were for lacking specific safety procedures in controlling hazardous energy managing workers exposed to hazardous energy. Hazardous energy, according to OSHA is any energy source including electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical or thermal that can be hazardous to workers.

Workers at American Axle and Manufacturings Malvern plant should construct rank-and-file safety committees, following the example of workers at FCA Jefferson North Assembly, Faurecia Gladstone, Ford Kansas City to defend themselves against serious safety events as well as the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic. The lives of autoworkers and auto parts workers are more important than corporate profits.
On the sidelines of the opening of Afghan peace talks on Saturday, the US envoy to Afghanistan expressed hope for the process.

The negotiations in Qatar have brought together the Taliban and delegates appointed by the Afghan government for historic meetings aimed at ending decades of war.

US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad, who has helped facilitate the talks, said Washington was hoping for a quick resolution to the talks but also acknowledged the difficulties both sides will face.

Parties are expected to discuss tough issues including the terms of a permanent cease-fire, the rights of women and minorities and the disarming of tens of thousands of Taliban fighters and militias loyal to warlords, some of them aligned with the government.

Khalilzhad said the guarantee signed in February in which the Taliban committed to fight terrorist groups, in particular the Islamic State affiliate in Afghanistan, and ensure Afghanistan cannot again be used to attack America or its allies, was the US' "most important condition" for the talks.

He said the hope was for a full withdrawal of US troops from the country by April 2021.
Kate Garraway wants to show lockdown rulebreakers a picture of her husband Derek Draper 'in his current state' as he continues to battle COVID-19.

Visibly fighting back tears, the Good Morning Britain presenter, 53, revealed her husband's parents had been unable to visit the former lobbyist, 53, since he was hospitalised on March 29, and urged viewers to maintain government guidelines.

In a stark warning to those flouting the rules, Kate said: 'You don't want this in your life. You don't know who it will affect and how.'

The daytime television star's words of warning come amid reports Derek's battle with coronavirus has become the 'longest in the UK,' after spending 184 days in and out of intensive care.

Scroll down for video

Serious: Kate Garraway has admitted she's wants to show lockdown rulebreakers a picture of her husband Derek Draper, as he continues to battle COVID-19

An emotional Kate urged viewers to keep following the guidelines, after host Susanna Reid asked for her feelings on the nation's growing fatigue towards masks and social distancing.

She said: 'I have huge sympathy with people who are fed up with it.

'I think if you haven't been directly touched by it, you haven't seen the devastation, your life has been devastated, your livelihood, your ability to feel a sense of joy, you're going to get frustrated.

'It does make me tempted to show a picture of Derek in his current state and say "You don't want this in your life. You don't know who it will affect and how". So stick to it.'

Fighting it: The presenter revealed her husband's parents had been unable to visit Derek since he'd been hospitalised back in March (Kate and Derek are pictured in December 2019)

Hard: Kate urged viewers to keep following the government guidelines, after host Susanna Reid asked for her feelings on the growing fatigue towards masks and social distancing

'There's huge confusion around it, but we kind of know wearing a mask, social distancing, we know the basics, and we have to do our best in the muddle.'

'There are so many shades of grey. If we stick to basics we can hopefully get through it.'

Struggling to fight back tears, Kate then added: 'Derek's mum and dad haven't been able to see Derek.

'If they can go six months without giving a hug to their son, who's so desperately ill, the rest of us can probably get through.

'Sorry, I didn't mean to depress everybody. That's the reality of getting caught up in the virus directly.'

Important: Fighting back tears, Kate added: 'If they can go six months without giving a hug to their son, who's so desperately ill, the rest of us can probably get through'

The discussion came after Prime Minister Boris Johnson's father Stanley was pictured shopping without a face covering, and former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn was revealed to have attended a dinner party with nine guests, more than the legal limit.

Earlier this week Lorraine Kelly also threw her support behind Kate as she lambasted anti-lockdown protesters as 'ridiculous' and 'irresponsible.'

She said: 'I was fuming at the weekend! The protests! I absolutely would love to take these people by the hand and show them the reality [of COVID-19]!'

'Wouldn't you like our Kate Garraway to have a wee word with [the protesters] and tell them about the hell she's been living through with her husband!' Lorraine hissed. 'It's absolutely ridiculous and totally irresponsible!'

Chic: Later Kate was seen heading to Global Studios in Leicester Square to present her mid-morning slot on Smooth FM

Stylish: The mother-of-two opted for black denim overalls and a pretty floral shirt, and completed her outfit with a white overcoat

On Monday it was reported that Kate's husband Derek has become the longest surviving patient with coronavirus, after spending 184 days in and out of intensive care.

The former lobbyist was first hospitalised with the disease on March 29, he was on a ventilator and put in an induced coma shortly thereafter before he was woken up in July, but progress is said to be 'very slow.'

According to a report from The Sun on Monday, Derek is one of 'only a handful' of people to be in hospital for six months with coronavirus.

A source speaking to the publication claimed: 'Kate has been so brave and her strength is awe-inspiring. But the truth is that progress is very, very slow.

'Derek has now been hospitalised for six months which makes him one of only a handful of people who have been in hospital for this long.

Illness: Derek was first hospitalised with the disease on March 29, he was on a ventilator and put in an induced coma shortly thereafter before he was woken up in July

'It's incredibly tough for Kate though because some days he shows signs of improvement, and then 24 hours later he has taken a worrying turn for the worse. It's literally one step forward, two steps back.'

The source went on to claim that Kate is thankful Derek is 'still here' as it means she has hope he will pull through after so many have lose their loved ones.

Derek was hospitalised after suffering serious complications from Covid-19 and has remained in intensive care ever since, in a minimally conscious state from which no one knows if he will ever recover.

Speaking to the Mail On Sunday's YOU magazine about the family's ordeal earlier this month, Kate revealed doctors had warned her Derek wouldn't survive, and expressed her shock at seeing his appearance as his 'worn-out and thin' body struggled to fight the virus.

Derek, who she revealed has lost eight stone during the battle, is one of an estimated just five people in the world whose bodies have been damaged so much by Covid.

Kate recalled: 'Doctors were saying, "He's not going to make it.'Unable to breathe, he was put into a medical coma to give his lungs a rest. Before he went under, he called Kate and said, "I love you, you've saved my life."

For several weeks, the family's only contact with Derek was through hospital staff, so when Kate first saw her husband, she found him unrecognisable.

Kate recalled: 'When I finally got to FaceTime him, seeing him unconscious was a big shock.

'He's lost nearly eight stone in weight, a lot of it muscle throughout his body. He looked worn-out, thin and pale with dark circles under his eyes and there were lots of tubes.'

In July Derek emerged from his deep coma and started showing some signs of consciousness, occasionally opening his eyes.

Only a few weeks ago, Kate was finally allowed to visit Derek in hospital. Coronavirus precautions mean the children and Derek's parents haven't been able to yet.

Kate and Derek married in 2005, and share daughter Darcey, 14, and son Billy, 11.

Earlier this year, Kate took a break from work in order to look after their children in lockdown and be there for Derek, but has since returned to Good Morning Britain, and her mid-morning slot on Smooth Radio.
MANZINI  Good news for patients of RFM and other health centres under the Nazarene group.

The Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC) has saved members of the public seeking medical assistance at Nazarene health institutions, including RFM Hospital. This is because the Raleigh Fitkin Memorial (RFM) Hospital and clinics under the Eswatini Nazarene Health Institutions (ENHI) are highly likely to continue charging fees that would be affordable to the public, courtesy of E501 491.09 worth of medical equipment that was donated by EEC.

Boardroom

The Deputy Director of Health Services (Clinical), Dr Velephi Okello, said this during the donation of the medical equipment to ENHI at the RFM Hospital boardroom yesterday.

It is worth noting that currently, the health facilities under ENHI charge E20 per patient and E6 per night for admitted patients. The fee for admission, which is E6, includes meals and the ENHI Chief Executive Officer (CEO) said these fees were as good as though the public was accessing their facilities for free. Dr Okello said the facilities were fully reliant on government funding, yet the country was facing financial challenges. In that regard, Okello said sometimes government could promise an institution a certain amount, but at the end, the organisation would receive less money as subvention.

Thereafter, she said as a ministry, they were happy that institutions like EEC were stepping up and assisting government. She said as a ministry, they encouraged such partnerships because public health facilities like those under ENHI were not charging much for their services. She said if the amount charged could be increased, many people would be in a disadvantaged position as they might not afford to access health services.

So, the medical equipment will come in handy because the facility might not reach a point where it can decide to increase the fees in order to be able to buy and replace faulty machines, she said. Again, she said the donation from EEC would also ease stress from healthcare workers as there was nothing as stressful for a nurse than having a patient, yet the machine was not functioning.


NCIS is a well-known and loved procedural drama show. The series features a group of elite special agents from the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, working to solve crimes across the world.

The popular show has had its share of characters leaving and one of the best-loved has been Ziva David, played by Cote de Pablo. Read on to find out more about why she left NCIS, what brought her back, and how her departure was received by her co-star.

Who are Cote de Pablo and Ziva David?

Cote de Pablo as Ziva David on NCIS | Bill Inoshita/CBS via Getty Images

Born in Chile, de Pablo moved to the US when she was 10 to study acting. Her most well-known role has been on NCIS as Ziva David.

In the show, she started out as an Israeli Mossad officer but then turned to NCIS. She has been described as being unlike anyone else in the series. As an Israeli officer, she was notably used to men being in charge and had no discomfort or trouble accepting male authority.

She has been shown to be a strong female character, in which many fans identify, praising her independence, strength, and capability. In short, Ziva is well-loved by fans, especially women, across the world.

Why did Cote de Pablo leave NCIS?

Since de Pablo joined NCIS, she has been incredibly popular with fans of the show. However, her exit came as a huge shock in 2013.

She claimed she left for personal reasons, but she refused to disclose these reasons. But there were also claims that she left because she wasnt happy about the storylines being planned for Ziva and felt it was an unfair view for female fans.

There were further claims that she left due to political elements. Still, other claims were from de Pablo herself, stating she had no other option but to leave the show. So, several different stories from an amazingly complicated and talented actress.

In her own words, de Pablo stated to TV Guide: As far as my decision to leave, thats a personal thing, and Id rather leave it at that.  They were going to send [Ziva] back to Israel and make her a sad, miserable woman. I said, What do I leave all the women that are watching and following the show? And I didnt think it was fair. So, I said, Unless someone can really write something fantastic, I wont go back Unfortunately, because of political things and the scripts not being good enough, I chose not to [stay]. I love this character. I worked eight years in crafting this character and loving her, so when I felt or I perceived the character was not being treated with the respect that she deserved, all the money in the world couldnt buy [me].

What did co-star David McCallum think of her departure?

Cote De Pablo poses for a portrait session during the Riviera International Film Festival | Jacopo Raule/Getty Images

To DigitalSpy, co-star David McCallum, who plays Donald Ducky Mallard, talked about de Pablos exit. He stated: It was frustration and anger that someone should just walk out on us. I just dont understand how a leading lady in a show thats worldwide, who ostensibly wants to have a career as an actress, suddenly walks away from such a gem and just vanishes a couple of days before we start production.

At the time I was astonished when Cote left but in retrospect, it seems that she was not up to handling the demands that the character put upon her, said McCallum, adding: I still dont understand her deeper motives.

Its clear her co-star is unsure of the real intention behind her decision and surprised those she shared screen space with.

Ziva returned to the series temporarily

RELATED: NCIS Season 18: Cote de Pablo Reportedly Isnt Returning, But Heres Why Fans Might See More of Ziva David

Not all was lost. In Season 17, Ziva returned. It was presumed that she was dead, but it turns out shed been kidnapped by terrorists, then went into hiding upon escape to protect her family.

Heres the best part: She came back to save Gibbs from Zahar. Shell also get to reunite with her daughter Tali upon her return. When she first went on-set, she described it as being incredible to be back on the NCIS set, getting applause from colleagues and signs of being ready for her reappearance in the NCIS world.

Part of the reason she came back was because the writers planned to do right by her character, giving Ziva the full support she needed to continue to grow into an amazing person. Not only is this occurring for Ziva, but also for other characters in the show. However, Zivas full-circle growth may be the most notable.

NCIS is a phenomenal show with tons of complex storylines. With the many actors coming and going, it can be a bit hard to follow. Ziva coming back makes many fans happier and has contributed to the shows continued success. Keep watching to find out more about Ziva and her relationship with the other characters on NCIS, as well as how de Pablo relates to other colleagues.
A custom-made B777 aircraft, which will be used to fly the President, Vice President and prime minister, has arrived in Delhi from the United States on Thursday, said government officials.

The plane was scheduled to be delivered by aircraft manufacturer Boeing to Air India in July but its delivery was delayed twice --once in July for a few weeks due to COVID-19 pandemic and then in August for a few weeks due to technical reasons -- the officials noted.

Air India One, which is the call sign of the aircraft, landed at the Delhi airport from Texas at around 3 pm on Thursday, they stated.

Senior officials of the national carrier had reached the US during the first half of August to receive the plane from Boeing, the officials said.

Another custom-made B777 plane for the travel of VVIPs is likely to be received from Boeing during a later date, they noted.

These two aircraft were part of Air India's commercial fleet for a few months in 2018 before they were sent back to Boeing for retrofitting them for VVIP travel.

Officials said the total cost of purchase and retrofitting the two planes has been estimated to be around Rs 8,400 crore.

The B777 planes will have state-of-the-art missile defence systems called Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures (LAIRCM) and Self-Protection Suites (SPS).

In February, the US agreed to sell the two defence systems to India at a cost of $190 million.

During the travel of the VVIPs, the two B777 aircraft will be operated by pilots of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and not of Air India, an official said.

Currently, the President, Vice President and prime minister, fly on Air India's B747 planes, which have the call sign Air India One.

Air India pilots fly these B747 aircraft for the dignitaries and the Air India Engineering Services Limited (AIESL) maintains them.

When these B747 aircraft are not flying the dignitaries, they are used by the Indian national carrier for commercial operations.

The custom-made B777 planes will be used for travel of the dignitaries only.

The Centre has already initiated the process of divestment of its stake in Air India, which has a debt of over Rs 60,000 crore.

However, the process has been postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The final exams and terminal semester examinations in West Bengals colleges and universities will start from Thursday.

The state government has asked the power supply corporations to maintain uninterrupted supply as students would have to download the question papers and upload the answer sheets using internet.

Advisory issued to CESC & WBSEB to provide uninterrupted power during examinations from 1st October to 18th, tweeted Partha Chatterjee, education minister of West Bengal.

Advisory issued to CESC &WBSEB to provide uninterrupted powerduring examinations from 1stOctober to 18th.  Partha Chatterjee (@itspcofficial) September 29, 2020

The University Grants Commission had allowed the West Bengal government to hold final year exams in colleges and universities within October 18.

Students, living in remote villages, however apprehend the worst as internet connection is very weak in some villages, particularly in the remote islands of the Sunderbans.

As internet connection is weak in some villages and towns, students have been given the option to submit the answer scripts at colleges within a stipulated time after writing the exam. For this, students have been asked to write the exam somewhere near the college if necessary. Officials and teachers will be there to assist the students if they face any difficulty, said an education department official.

The apex education body has, however, requested the state government to ensure that results are published preferably by October-end so that admission to post graduate and PhD programs can start soon.

Some universities such as Presidency University and engineering departments in Jadavpur University have already held the exams and published the results.
As the result of a joint American-Israeli effort, an Israeli firm has created a new quad-copter optimized to take down enemy quad-copters and small fixed-wing UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle). Called Skylord, it has been tested for over a year in southern Israel (Gaza) to bring down the kites and helium balloons and Hamas has been using from Gaza to transport incendiaries or small explosives into southern Israel. Skylord has brought down 2,500 of these devices so far.

Skylord is a quadcopter with an AR (Augmented Reality) operator control system based on FPS (First Person Shooter) handheld controller used in many commercial video games. After launching Skylord, an operator puts on the AR headset that gives him a view from the UAV. The operator can then home in on the enemy UAV and use a long flexible and detachable tail carried under Skylord until the tail makes contact with the enemy UAV rotors or propeller and brings it down. The tail automatically detaches from Skylord when it snags another UAV. The guidance system includes the ability to put the cross hairs on another UAV than switch to automatic intercept mode which keeps after the target until it is close enough for the operator to bring the other UAV down, or just take high res pictures of it.

Skylord can carry devices weighing up to one kilogram (2.2 pound) and this can include electronic devices that will jam GPS and most UAV control signals. A net can also be used or anything else developers can come up with. In Gaza Skylord carried a tail that just punctured balloons to bring down the incendiary/explosives carrying devices used by Hamas.

Skylord is fast, moving at up to 80 meters a second, enabling it quickly close in on and bring down the target UAV. Skylord can then automatically return to the operator to be equipped with a new tail device and sent back into the air in less than ten seconds. An advanced (heavier) version of Skylord is being tested by American troops. Skylord is meant to be constantly upgraded, especially when it comes to devices that will bring down an enemy UAV.

Israeli firms have already been developing a number of ground-based devices to bring down the Hamas balloons. For example, Light Blade is an air defense weapon designed to detect and shoot down balloons. These Hamas devices cause more psychological than physical damage but the Israelis threatened are voters, and the devices do cause casualties or, more often, property damage and brush fires. The thousands of rocket, mortar and now kite and balloon attacks from Gaza over the last fifteen years have created a demand for specialized weapons to deal with the menace.

Light Blade works because of another new techy; SupervisIR. This is a radar that can detect small, slow-moving, low altitude targets and pass that data on to a weapons system. When combined with Light Blade, over 90 percent of available targets were detected, tracked and destroyed by the Light Blade variable focus laser. The ability of the Light Blade laser to focus into a powerful enough beam to bring down the balloons or kites was an important breakthrough. It means the laser beam is eye safe if it hits anyone in a passing aircraft. The beam focuses only long enough to burn through the balloons or kites and bring them down. Light Blade can hit targets within five kilometers of the truck (pickup or hummer type) mounted laser and fire control system.
Guwahati, Oct 1 : Even as the third wave of flood situation in Assam slightly improved, 2.71 lakh people in seven of the state's 33 districts were still suffering on Thursday, disaster management officials said.

Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) officials said that of the flood affected people, 1,90,537 people were in central Assam's Nagaon district.

The officials said that in the ongoing flood, besides the low-lying areas, over 25,307 hectares of crop lands in 426 villages in the seven districts -- Nagaon, Barpeta, Biswanath, Hojai, Morigaon, Goalpara, and West Karbi Anglong -- have been inundated.

Around 46,000 domesticated animals as well as wild animals, including rhinos in sanctuaries and national parks, were also affected due to the flood, which also damaged many roads, bridges, embankments, government buildings and schools, they added.

The Brahmaputra was flowing above the danger level in Dhubri district and its tributary Kopili, crossed the danger mark in Nagaon district.

The ASDMA officials said that Assam, until early August, witnessed devastating floods that killed 120 people in 22 districts, while 26 others were killed in landslides since May 22.

With a respite in monsoon rains, the situation significantly improved in the first week of August even as 57 lakh people were affected in 5,378 villages in 30 districts.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Assam witnessed 11 per cent excess rainfall (1,651.1 mm against average 1,486.2 mm) in the four-month (June-September) monsoon period.

In September, the state recorded 37 per cent excess rainfall (373.8 mm against average 272.4 mm).
This article is part of an ongoing series that looks at the history of disability issues in television. You can find Part One in the series, about viewers recollections of disability on television here; and Part Two on disability in Very Special Episodes here.

When Norman Lear won another Emmy two weeks ago  becoming the oldest Emmy winner in history  it reminded audiences of how vital and revolutionary the showrunner and creator has been for more than 50 years. His television shows in the 1970s changed the landscape, deconstructing everything from gender to race.

But one area that is often overlooked in his career is his work with disability. Its a statement Lear chuckles at when asked about  to him, it just made sense to include disabled characters and, more importantly, disabled actors, to emphasize the world we lived in.

To hear him tell it, there isnt a grand story in what inspired him to discuss disability in his shows. I grew up in Hartford, Connecticut, Lear told IndieWire. And across the street from me there was a disabled person, up the street from me there was somebody with a different disability. It wasnt unknown to me. For Lear, to showcase American life in an authentic way demanded discussing disability.

And to bring up that world is to briefly discuss where the disabled community was in the 1970s when Lears series started to take the world by storm. In 1973 the first major series of laws combating discrimination and opening up accessibility for those with disabilities were enacted. Soldiers returning home from Vietnam, with the war ending entirely in 1975, further precipitated the need for more discussion of how the disabled navigated the world.

Unfortunately, by 1977 the regulations the American Coalition of Citizens With Disabilities wanted remained unsigned by President Jimmy Carter, leading to nationwide sit-ins and disabled activists taking over the San Francisco Federal building. (This is fantastically shown in the Netflix documentary Crip Camp.) That same year saw Lears series Good Times, then in its fifth season, tackle disability with the episode Breaker, Breaker where Michael (Ralph Carter) discovers the girl hes talking to via CB radio is in a wheelchair. Lear says the episode was Entirely an example of good and fortuitous timing. Though the actress playing Nancy  aka Michaels Fun Girl, actress Sharon Brown  wasnt disabled, the episode still sought to put her story front and center, and put the impetus on Michael to realize his what we now know of as ableism.

Story continues

Lear could have easily rested on hiring able-bodied performers to play disabled characters but in 1978 he met stand-up comedienne Geri Jewell and it changed everything. Jewell, who has cerebral palsy, was performing at Los Angeles landmark The Comedy Store, where shed cultivated an act that acknowledged and poked sly fun at the people who didnt understand disability. When asked, Lear said the first thing he noticed about Jewell was her smile and her laugh. She wanted to perform, he said. It was a good time for it, too. The 1980s, especially the year 1981, would become known as the year of the disabled person, meant to increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of the disabled community.

Nobody had ever seen anyone like Jewell, the actress told IndieWire, let alone someone like Jewell doing stand-up comedy. I was in the right place at the right time, she said. In 1980 Lear put Jewell on his sitcom The Facts of Life as the affable cousin to snooty Blair (Lisa Whelchel). Much of the character was based on Jewell herself  including that Cousin Geri herself was a comic  though the actress said she had little input on her character. Because Lears production company only oversaw the series, it often left Jewell struggling on-set with the screenwriters. Theres a lot of pressure because you are told again and again that you represent so many people, Jewell said. But Jewell also struggled with her own issues. She hid from the cast and crew that she was hearing impaired, mostly because she didnt want others to assume she was a handful on top of having CP.

Every time I had a cue to go on-stage from backstage, they would always have someone behind me, tapping me, she said. And even though Jewell tried to hide her hearing loss, the other actresses on the show figured it out. The big craze was the Walkmanand I remember Lisa [Whelchel] coming over to me and saying, Will you take that Walkman out of your ear? And I said, Everybody else has a Walkman [and she said], Yeah, because everybody else can hear,' Jewell said.

In 1982 Lear and Jewell reunited for the all-star variety special I Love Liberty, and as much as Jewell might have struggled on The Facts of Life, working with Lear emphasized his compassion and understanding of how the world often responded to the disabled. As Jewell recounted, she went on the stage with no hearing aids because in 1982 hearing aids produced a whistling sound that cameras picked up on. Nobody laughed. I thought that was the end of my career. I had tears in my eyes, she said. Lear said he assumed Jewell froze and rushed on stage  in the years I could run, he said  and gave her a hug. I knew she could do it, he said.

Jewell said it was soon discovered that the mics werent working and that what she thought was a crowd that hated her actually couldnt hear her. Norman put his hand on my shoulders, he backs me up, and he said, Geri, read my lips, your mic isnt working, she said. It didnt end her career and Jewell stayed with The Facts of Life through 1984, in spite of feeling like her character was often only utilized to tell disabled stories. Jewell was initially announced to have her own spin-off series, entitled Heres Geri in the mid-1980s, which she would have had more input on, but when production supervisor Al Burton  who was working on the series  left the show, the talks ended there.

Lears encouragement also gave another disabled performer her start after Jewells rise to fame. When she was 13, Californian Melanie Watson was spotted by a talent scout at her local YMCA who was seeking disabled swimmers. Working on various television shows eventually ended up putting her on the radar of Marshall Goldberg, the writer of another Lear produced series, Diffrent Strokes. She was first placed on an experimental series Lear produced called The Baxters.

The short-lived series, debuting in 1979, blended both a sitcom with a talk show that focused on important topics. It wasnt until after that shows failure that Watson ended up cast on Diffrent Strokes, in the role of Kathy Gordon, Arnolds (Gary Coleman) best friend who used a wheelchair. It was written specifically for her.

Watson wasnt as close to Lear as Jewell was, but she understood his influence at a young age  though she admits she wasnt the easiest child to work with. I was a pill, she said. I was always playing with my yo-yo and listening to my Walkman. But when she was on-set she knew it was work and it was a different atmosphere for her. Back in those days I didnt have a wheelchair, she said. So I was carried everywhere. On-set, the manual wheelchair she utilized often got tripped up on the cords placed throughout the set, though Watson said the entire crew was polite and accommodating in helping her navigate everything.

That being said, like Jewell, Watson struggled with the material she was given. In her second appearance on Diffrent Strokes, entitled Kathy, the character of Kathy shows up on crutches to prove that she can walk and inspire Arthur to give an important speech. I did not want to do that, she said, explaining that a few years prior to filming shed endured a bad fall that left her fearful of walking again. I can remember saying, This is somebody elses dream, she said. But they explained to me this was the premise of the episode. Her mother told her to remain quiet and do the scene, which Watson did, but the desire to be an independent person left her feeling disillusioned by acting.

Despite that, Watson has always praised Lear for giving disabled actors like herself an opportunity on a large series. Im proud of Norman for going against the norm and doing something, she said. Its enough to make Watson wish she had been more mature when she started acting: I didnt realize what a gift it was to be the first one out there. If I had to do it all over again I would have stayed in the business.

As for Lear himself, hes eager to look for new opportunities to highlight disabilities in his shows. On the new incarnation of One Day At a Time, airing on Pop TV, disabled actress Santina Muha plays Beth, one of the veterans who is a part of series lead Penelopes (Justina Machado) support group. Its our responsibility as producers, when we have this gift of the platform that we have in entertainmentwe tell the stories that have people feeling represented on television, said Lears producing partner Brent Miller.

He and Lear say they could even see Muhas character and the women of the support group translating to their own series someday. Either way, Lear is hopeful that well see more disabled representation from others down the line. Fingers crossed, and Ill even cross a couple of eyes, he said.

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(Natural News) A New York Times report based on projections for 2020 shows 18 of the top 20 cities for homicides have Democrat mayors.

(Article by AWR Hawkins republished from Breitbart.com)

Ironically, the Times leans on the Republican exceptions in the list to claim President Donald Trump is wrong for calling out the Democrat Party over violent cities around the country.

Again, 18 of the top 20 cities for the projected highest murder rates are run by Democrats. The projections were drawn from a combination of police department figures and media reports.

Below is a list of the cities, the names/party affiliation of their mayors, and their projected murder rate (PMR):

St. Louis  Mayor Lyda Krewson (D)  PMR: 90.4 Baltimore  Mayor Bernard Young (D)  PMR: 55.8 Detroit  Mayor Mike Duggan (D)  PMR: 47.6 New Orleans  Mayor LaToya Cantrell (D)  PMR: 46:4 Cleveland  Mayor Frank G. Jackson (D)  PMR: 41:3 Kansas City, MO  Mayor Quiton Lucas (D)  PMR: 40.0 Cincinnati  Mayor John Cranley (D)  PMR: 33:4 Milwaukee  Mayor Tom Barrett (D)  PMR: 31.7 Chicago  Mayor Lori Lightfoot (D)  PMR: 28.6 Atlanta  Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms (D)  PMR: 27.9 Philadelphia  Mayor Jim Kinney (D)  PMR: 27.4 Washington  Mayor Muriel Bowser (D)  PMR: 27.3 Louisville  Mayor Greg Fischer (D)  PMR: 23.0 Miami  Mayor Francis X. Suarez (R)  PMR: 22.2 Indianapolis  Mayor Joe Hogsett (D)  PMR: 21.9 Oakland  Mayor Libby Schaaf (D)  PMR: 21.0 Toledo  Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz (D)  PMR: 20.8 Tulsa  Mayor G.T. Bynum (R)  PMR: 20.0 Minneapolis  Mayor Jacob Frey (D)  PMR: 18.7 Greensboro  Mayor Nancy B. Vaughan (D)  PMR: 18.6

The Times also includes a lookback at the ten U.S. cities with the highest murder rates in 2019. All ten had Democrat mayors.

The Times contends, More cities are run by Democratic mayors than by Republican ones, but murder is rising pretty much everywhere, regardless of a mayors political party.

On June 29, 2020, Breitbart News reported a Washington Post column suggesting Trump was wrong to criticize the violence in Democrat-controlled cities because only 17 of the top 20 most violent cities are run by Democrats.

Read more at: Breitbart.com
It was a humble scene at 1016 Elm St. in Bala on Wednesday afternoon, Sept. 23, as around a dozen people gathered at a patch of grassland in a residential neighbourhood.

However, in two years, officials in Muskoka Lakes hope this will be the site of two new affordable homes. Habitat for Humanity Ontario Gateway North plans to build two semi-detached, two-bedroom houses in Bala by October 2022. They will give the homes to any families in the area looking for a place to live. Officials with Habitat for Humanity and Muskoka-area councillors say this is one part of addressing the shortage of affordable houses in the community of Bala, where developers would often prefer to build million-dollar cottages. Its a great opportunity for people to be able to come to this community, said Muskoka Lakes mayor Phil Harding at the unveiling of the site on Sept. 23. This is the second time Habitat for Humanity will build homes in Bala, the first being built over 10 years ago. Starting in February 2021, families can apply to move in once construction is complete in 2022. The project came together after conversations with the townships Heritage and Attainable Housing Committee. Habitat for Humanity found out the committee had a residential lot in Bala ready for construction. Providing someone in your community with stable, decent, affordable housing means that they can elevate on the Maslows Hierarchy of Needs, said Ontario Gateway Norths CEO Kimberely Woodcock at the unveiling. They have space and energy to chase their ambitions. Wendy and Jason Martin moved into a Habitat for Humanity home in Huntsville with their three children in 2013. Wendy said rent was getting too expensive in the Muskoka region, and her family was unable to get a mortgage from the bank. This area we live in, its not extraordinarily affordable, Wendy said. Affordable housing  I know thats been a real need and desire for many of the local people who live here. District of Muskoka councillor Ruth Nishikawa described Bala as a place with a dire, dire need for affordable housing. There is no housing in Bala, she said. She described situations where, in many households, three to four generations of the same family live under one roof, stacked on top of each other. Not all can afford to be on the water on the lake, Nishikawa said. If you were to look on a map, this area is mostly water, so its difficult to find properties. Muskokas kind of interesting, Wendy said. Its a little divided by people who live on the lake and are not here full time and then theres a lot of people who are here year-round and theres not a lot of affordability in the centre of town. Wendys husband Jason was born and raised in Huntsville, while Wendy is from Barrie. Theyre both self-employed and were working full-time when they applied with Habitat for Humanity. Donelda Hayes, a councillor with the Township of Muskoka Lakes, was part of arranging the Habitat for Humanity project. She said options are scarce for seniors, staff housing and attainable housing in Bala. Attainable housing was something that was on everybodys radar during the election time, she said. When we spoke to people, they said weve got to do something. Hayes said land is expensive in Bala: what shes heard from developers is they encounter the same red tape in building a million-dollar cottage as they do in building a smaller, more affordable house  with a larger profit margin for the former. Projects led by Habitat for Humanity are one piece of the puzzle in fixing this problem in Bala and other remote parts of Muskoka, Hayes said. Nishikawa said she believes some local bylaws are interfering with the ability to build smaller, affordable houses. She cites a bylaw that states developers must build a residential property to be at least 750 square feet unless there is a variance  in some cases, she said, a 600-700 square foot house is enough. We have to get developers thinking there is profit in doing this kind of housing, Hayes said. Maybe not the same kind of profit as when you go off and do that million-dollar home on the lake, but there is a need, and you could do both. Habitat for Humanity is aiming for shovels in the ground by October 2021. Volunteers are fundraising to collect $150,000 to $200,000 to support construction.STORY BEHIND THE STORY: Access to affordable housing in the Muskoka area continues to be an ongoing struggle for families, seniors and first-time buyers. With the construction of these new Habitat for Humanity homes in the Muskoka Lakes Township, our reporter wanted to unpack what the causes of this shortage is and some of the potential solutions.
Firefighters struggled to contain the raging Glass Fire as it threatened lives and properties in the Sonoma and Napa counties, California, on September 30.

Footage shows an orange, smoky haze blanketing Saint Helena, in Napa County, as several evacuation orders were in place for the fire which had scorched through at least 48,440 acres.

Hot, dry conditions exacerbated the blaze as firefighters focused on saving properties while building and reinforcing containment lines.

Authorities said they were expecting arid weather over the following days, making for difficult firefighting conditions. Credit: @palatexposure via Storyful
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Accused of commanding a presidential guard implicated in high-profile murders during the Rwandan genocide, Protais Mpiranya is the top priority for investigators following this year's arrest of a fellow alleged war criminal.

On the run for 20 years, charged with war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity, Mpiranya is the most sought of the six remaining fugitives indicted by an international tribunal into the 1994 slaughter which left some 800,000 dead.

He was second on the wanted list until the arrest of alleged genocide financier Felicien Kabuga near Paris in May.

France's top appeals court ruled Wednesday that Kabuga, who had evaded capture in several countries, should be transferred to a UN tribunal in Tanzania to stand trial.

But Mpiranya, who is believed to be around 60, remains at large.

At the time of the genocide he commanded the presidential guard, a feared outfit accused of targeted assassinations during the 100-day massacre of Tutsis and moderate Hutus.

In particular, Mpiranya was allegedly among those who ordered the murder of then prime minister Agathe Uwilingiyimana, 10 Belgian soldiers protecting her, and several other leading politicians and their families on April 7, 1994, in the early hours of the genocide.

Wave of assassinations

The evening before, a plane carrying Rwanda's president Juvenal Habyarimana had been shot down on its approach to Kigali International Airport.

The president had just returned from a regional meeting in Tanzania, where he agreed to push ahead with the terms of the 1993 Arusha Accords which were meant to end a three-year war between the Hutu government in Kigali, and a Tutsi rebellion.

Following Habyarimana's assassination an emergency meeting was called between top brass of the Rwandan Armed Forces, top police officials, the UN military and civilian leaders.

The latter made the case that Uwilingiyimana, a moderate Hutu and Rwanda's first female prime minister, had legal authority to take control of the country and suggested she make a national address to that effect.

But Rwanda's radical Hutu leadership had other ideas.

On the morning of April 7 Mpiranya and two other military officials "ordered their subordinates... to search for the prime minister, Agathe Uwilingiyimana, in order to kill her", read the prosecutor's indictment for the former International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR).

Uwilingiyimana was sexually assaulted and murdered and left in the street, naked, in full view of passersby. The savage attack was overseen by a captain of the battalion of the presidential guard, the indictment said.

But her murder was only the first in a wave of assassinations targeting prominent figures and politicians who supported the Arusha Accords.

Among those killed were the president of the Constitutional Court, the minister of agriculture, the minister of information, and the vice-president of the Social Democratic Party, who was being considered for the post of president of the transitional National Assembly.

The killings aimed "to create a political vacuum and derail the implementation of the Arusha Accords", read the indictment, which directly implicated the presidential guard in the attacks.

'He is hiding'

Mpiranya hails from the former province of Gisenyi, in northern Rwanda, also the homeland of Habyarimana and several other top-ranking hardline Hutu military officials.

After graduating from military college in Kigali in 1983, he was assigned to the national police force.

In 1991, as the army was fighting the rebels of the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), led by today's President Paul Kagame, Mpiranya was transferred to the presidential guard battalion and two years later was promoted to commander.

In July 1994, after the army's defeat at the hands of the rebels brought about the end of the genocide, Mpiranya began a long journey into exile that would take him to several African countries.

In 1998, he fought alongside Congolese forces in a campaign against rebels backed by Rwandan troops, said the NGO African Rights, which has studied the genocide.

According to press reports, he was later sent to Zimbabwe on behalf of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a militia partly composed of former Hutus implicated in the genocide, and accused of exploiting the mineral wealth of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

"Through our intensified investigations over the past three years, we have come to a solid understanding of Mpiranya's movements and where he is hiding," said Serge Brammertz, the prosecutor of the Mechanism for International Criminal Tribunals (MICT), the body charged with completing the work of the ICTR which formally closed in 2015.

"Our task now is to obtain the necessary cooperation from the countries concerned."

Reports submitted to the UN indicate Mpiranya could be moving around southern Africa.

Brammertz insists Mpiranya is still alive, despite claims to the contrary by some Rwandan exiles.
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Linkedin Fiachra Gibbons (Agence France-Presse) Paris  Thu, October 1, 2020 09:37 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4861a0b 2 Food Taku-Sekine,Chefs,Japan,suicide,#MeToo Free

The family of a Japanese chef who was a rising star in France said he has killed himself after he was the target of false sexual assault allegations.

Taku Sekine's tiny Paris restaurant, Dersou, was named the best in France by the Fooding guide in 2016, and his new Asian fusion restaurant, the Cheval d'Or, had garnered equally rave reviews.

But his family said that Sekine, 39 -- a protege of French superchef Alain Ducasse -- "got caught in a violent spiral of depression" after he became the target of "false and malicious gossip" on social media two months ago.

"A brutal campaign of destruction was waged against him," the family said in a statement sent to AFP late Tuesday, adding that it was an attempt to tarnish his standing among his peers who were warned about "working with him".

The family said no official complaint had been made against the chef and he was not being investigated by the police.

His partner Sarah Berger -- the mother of his two-year-old son -- later shared the statement on Instagram.

It also railed against his treatment at the hands of a specialist French gastronomic website -- which it did not name.

The Atabula website published a long investigation in August into sexual abuse and harassment in top French kitchens, saying that "a well-known Japanese chef" who it did not name "could be accused of rape".

Second top chef accused

On Tuesday, hours after Sekine had committed suicide, the website carried the testimony of a woman who claimed that French celebrity chef Guy Martin had attempted to rape her.

Florence Chatelet Sanchez, who supplies some of France's top restaurants with high-end produce, said he pinned her against a wall in a small room in one of his restaurants five years ago and tried to strip her.

The two-star Michelin cook, best known for his Le Grand Vefour restaurant in Paris, later denied the allegations, saying they "had no basis".

On Wednesday, Atabula published a justification of its wider inquiry into abuse in the industry, saying that Sekine's name "had come up several times from different sources" around harassment.

It said that a 25-year-old Canadian woman had claimed on Instagram in August that he had tried to sexually assault her twice while she slept in January 2019.

"Several parents whose children worked in the restaurant world have thanked us for raising the subject after the suicides of their sons and and their daughter who were not able to speak out about their torment," wrote reporter Franck Pinay-Rabaroust, who led the investigation.

He insisted the timing of its revelations about Martin hours after Sekine's death was a "sad coincidence".

Experts caution that suicides are often the result of multiple factors and complex mental health problems. which can be treated with professional help and advice.
A probe into how a patient became ill during trials of Astrazeneca's potential Covid-19 jab has been widened in the US.

The Food & Drug Administration will examine data from past trials of similar vaccines developed by the same scientists, sources told Reuters.

It is a blow to Astra's proposed vaccine  jointly developed by scientists at Oxford University and Astra  which is one of the most advanced among global candidates but could now face further delays.

Trials of Astrazeneca's potential Covid-19 vaccine were paused in the US on September 6 after a participant in the British trials developed what was thought to be a rare spinal disorder

Large trials of the vaccine were paused in the US on September 6 after a participant in the British trials developed what was thought to be a rare spinal inflammatory disorder.

The trials were also paused in other countries such as the UK but have since resumed there.

Data requested by the FDA was expected to arrive this week, according to reports, and will take time to be analysed.

The FDA wants to determine whether any side effects experienced by the British patient in Astra's trials emerged in trials of other vaccines designed by Oxford University, Reuters reported.

Astrazeneca said yesterday: 'We are continuing to work with the FDA to facilitate review of the information needed to make a decision regarding resumption of the US trial.'
KALAMAZOO, MI  One of two former owners of Stamp Farms has reached a plea agreement with the U.S. Attorneys Office on a multi-million dollar fraud case.

Michael Stamp, of Decatur, pleaded guilty Sept. 24 to one count of bank fraud and one count of making false statements to the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation. The agreement was accepted by the U.S. District Court Western District of Michigan on Sept. 28, according to court documents.

Stamp admits to executing a scheme to defraud Wells Fargo Bank and conspire to provide false statements to the FCIC, according to the plea agreement.

Per the agreement, Stamp faces a maximum penalty of eight years imprisonment. Should U.S. District Judge Paul Maloney not accept the plea agreement, the U.S. Attorneys Office and/or the defendant may opt to withdraw from the agreement.

The case, according to the 2017 indictment, involved the couple allegedly filing for bankruptcy after fraudulently borrowing $68 million from Wells Fargo.

The defendant, according to the plea agreement, provided Wells Fargo with false financial statements, false borrowing base certificates, and other false information concerning the amount of farmland he was farming, the assets of his businesses and the profitability of his business operations.

He admitted to doing so between March 2011 and April 2018 so the bank would continue to loan him money and not foreclose his loans on him, the plea agreement states. He also hid assets from Wells Fargo Bank that he had pledged as security for the loans, the agreement states.

As part of his scheme, Stamp also admitted to directing others to lie about his business operations and their financial condition, the agreement states.

Between 2006 and 2013 Stamp also conspired with Doug Diekman, James Becraft, Robert Trowbridge and others to provide false statements to the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation and the companies it reinsures to obtain money from it, according to the agreement.

The four men submitted false documents to the FCIC and made false claims for crop insurance benefits. As part of the conspiracy, Stamp admitted to also directing others to falsify crop records in order to qualify for crop insurance benefits, resulting in financial losses to the USDA.

Stamp and the U.S. Attorneys Office had reached an agreement previously on two separate charges in the indictment, but Stamp withdrew his plea after Maloney ruled earlier this year that the sentencing guidelines agreed to between the parties did not result in a long enough prison sentence.

Related: Former owners of large Michigan farm heading to trial after plea agreements withdrawn

Michael Stamps initial agreement made with the U.S. Attorneys Office in April 2019 included a maximum sentence of five years in prison.

After looking at sentencing guidelines for the crimes Michael Stamp pleaded guilty to  conspiracy to commit bank fraud and conspiracy to commit crop insurance fraud  Maloney ruled in January this year that the agreement between the two parties presented an inaccurate interpretation of how sentencing guidelines should be applied.

The judge concluded that Stamp should instead be sentenced to between 12.5 and 15 years in prison on the charges.

As Maloneys interpretations of the sentencing guidelines grossly exceeded the initial agreement, the judge granted Michael Stamp the opportunity to work out a new agreement with the U.S. Attorneys Office or to withdraw his guilty plea.

Stamp withdrew his guilty plea in March.

Two weeks later, the U.S. Attorneys Office withdrew from a plea agreement it had in place with a co-defendant in the case. Stamps wife Melissa Stamp, had previously pleaded guilty to misprision of a felony and admitted to being aware of her husbands fraud, not reporting it to authorities and helping hide money from the couples creditors.

Melissa Stamp was scheduled to go to trial Oct. 13. Her final pretrial conference, scheduled for Sept. 28, was adjourned Monday, due to provisions in Michael Stamps plea agreement.

No new date has been set in Melissa Stamps case. Michael Stamp is scheduled to be sentenced Jan. 19, 2021, in U.S. District Court in Kalamazoo.

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SEBEWAING  Matt Wiese, who graduated from Unionville-Sebewaing Area High School in 1980, was unanimously elected to be the president of the Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan by his peers and will serve a one-year term through August 2021, according to a press release from the association.

The Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan is made up of a 14-member board of directors and the attorney general, who represents Michigans 83 county prosecuting attorney offices. As president, Wiese has prioritized advocating for victims' rights, continuing the associations focus on advancing the professionalism of prosecution, criminal justice reform, and the prosecution of violent crimes against women.

Although I never experienced a lot of the issues I deal with as a prosecuting attorney of violent crimes during my time in the Thumb, it was a good experience that shaped the person I am today, Weise said. You gain a respect for others and a sense of community growing up in a small town that you dont always get elsewhere.

After graduating from USA High School, Wiese studied at Northern Michigan University before going on to Vermont Law School. He graduated law school in 1987. Most recently, Wiese has been a Marquette County Prosecuting Attorney since 2012, after moving back to the Upper Peninsula.

I always loved Northern Michigan and attending university at NMU just reaffirmed my desire to live here, Wiese said. I knew I would come back here.

Wiese became interested in being a prosecuting attorney through the desire to help victims of domestic and sexual violence. According to Wiese, the most rewarding part of his job is seeing justice prevail, especially in the case of violent crimes.

My goal is to make sure victims feel and know their voice is heard, Wiese said.

Wiese went on to explain what an honor and humbling experience it had been to be elected president of the Prosecuting Attorneys Association, with his goal to continue the mission of the association, which includes maintaining public safety and the support of law enforcement. Coming from a small area and rural school, Wiese agreed that students can doubt their potential.

When I met with my guidance counselor and expressed my interest in being a prosecuting attorney, I remember getting a funny look, Weise said. If you work hard, you can achieve anything you set your mind to, regardless of where you come from.

The Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan was established in 1928. The association's primary purposes are to promote equal justice in enforcing the states criminal laws and continuing the education of prosecuting attorneys and other law enforcement officials.

Matt Wiese is a thoughtful prosecutor who is well-respected throughout the state, said the association's immediate past President Bill Vailliencourt. His dedication to protecting victims and doing justice will serve Michigan well during his presidency.

Matt Wiese is the ideal person to lead the Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan in these times of unprecedented challenges, added Mark Reene, another past president. He personifies what it takes to be a model prosecutor through his dedication, integrity, and passion.

He is a champion for victims and has been instrumental in developing policies and practices that help protect our more vulnerable citizens, he added.
The Supreme Court on Thursday sought the response of the state of Rajasthan on a plea challenging the bail granted by the Rajasthan high court to a person accused of raping his minor daughter.

A bench headed by justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul heard the petitioners counsel Ronak Karanpuria before issuing notice to Rajasthan government and the accused.

Issue notice returnable in three weeks, the bench which also comprised justice Ajay Rastogi ordered.

The accused is alleged to have continuously raped and molested his daughter from 2014 when she was 10 years old.

When the daughter informed her mother of the same, the mother left the house along with the daughter for a few days but the accused persuaded them to come back.

The exploitation continued and though the victim informed her aunt and grandmother of the same, nobody believed her, the petition said.

Eventually when she was assaulted on March 18, 2020, the mother took a stand and approached the police on April 20 and filed a complaint based on which an FIR was registered. A medical examination was conducted on the victim on April 21 which concluded that sexual intercourse had taken place.

The accused was charged with offence of rape under section 376 of Indian Penal Code and for offences under Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act.

The Rajasthan high court, however, granted bail to the accused on September 3.

High Court mechanically and casually granted bail to the accused without considering the gravity of offence. High Court ought to have considered that if released, he in his capacity as the father of prosecutrix can to influence, intimidate and coerce her and can tamper evidence/witness, the petition in the Supreme Court said.
Technavio has been monitoring the small animal imaging market and it is poised to grow by USD 959.08 million during 2020-2024, progressing at a CAGR of over 9% 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.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200930005952/en/

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Small Animal Imaging Market 2020-2024 (Graphic: Business Wire)

Although the COVID-19 pandemic continues to transform the growth of various industries, the immediate impact of the outbreak is varied. While a few industries will register a drop in demand, numerous others will continue to remain unscathed and show promising growth opportunities. Technavio's in-depth research has all your needs covered as our research reports include all foreseeable market scenarios, including pre- post-COVID-19 analysis. Download a Free Sample Report on COVID-19 Impacts

Frequently Asked Questions-

Based on segmentation by technology, which is the leading segment in the market?

The optical imaging segment is expected to be the leading segment based on technology in the global market during the forecast period.

What are the major trends in the market?

Growth in number of veterinarians is one of the major trends in the market.

At what rate is the market projected to grow?

Growing at a CAGR of over 9%, the incremental growth of the market is anticipated to be USD 959.08 million.

Who are the top players in the market?

Aspect Imaging Ltd., Bruker Corp., FUJIFILM Holdings Corp., Heska Corp., IDEXX Laboratories Inc., LI-COR Inc., MR Solutions Ltd., PerkinElmer Inc., Promega Corp., and Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. are some of the major market participants.

What are the key market drivers?

Rising demand for pet insurance is one of the major factors driving the market.

How big is the North America market?

The North America region will contribute 54% of market growth.

The market is fragmented, and the degree of fragmentation will accelerate during the forecast period. Aspect Imaging Ltd., Bruker Corp., FUJIFILM Holdings Corp., Heska Corp., IDEXX Laboratories Inc., LI-COR Inc., MR Solutions Ltd., PerkinElmer Inc., Promega Corp., and Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. are some of the major market participants. The rising demand for pet insurance will offer immense growth opportunities. To make 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.

Buy 1 Technavio report and get the second for 50% off. Buy 2 Technavio reports and get the third for free.

View market snapshot before purchasing

Technavio's custom research reports offer detailed insights on the impact of COVID-19 at an industry level, a regional level, and subsequent supply chain operations. This customized report will also help clients keep up with new product launches in direct indirect COVID-19 related markets, upcoming vaccines and pipeline analysis, and significant developments in vendor operations and government regulations.

Small Animal Imaging Market 2020-2024: Segmentation

Small Animal Imaging Market is segmented as below:

Technology Optical Imaging Magnetic Resonance Imaging Nuclear Imaging Other Technology

Geographic Landscape Asia Europe North America ROW



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=IRTNTR40312

Small Animal Imaging 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. The small animal imaging market report covers the following areas:

Small Animal Imaging Market Size

Small Animal Imaging Market Trends

Small Animal Imaging Market Analysis

This study identifies growth in number of veterinarians as one of the prime reasons driving the small animal imaging market growth during the next few years.

Technavio suggests three forecast scenarios (optimistic, probable, and pessimistic) considering the impact of COVID-19. Technavio's in-depth research has direct and indirect COVID-19 impacted market research reports.

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Small Animal Imaging Market 2020-2024: Key Highlights

CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2020-2024

Detailed information on factors that will assist small animal imaging market growth during the next five years

Estimation of the small animal imaging market size and its contribution to the parent market

Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior

The growth of the small animal imaging market

Analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors

Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of small animal imaging market vendors

Table of Contents:

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

Market segmentation analysis

Value chain analysis

PART 04: MARKET SIZING

Market definition

Market sizing 2019

Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Market outlook

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 TECHNOLOGY

Market segmentation by technology

Comparison by technology

Optical imaging Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Magnetic resonance imaging Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Nuclear imaging Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Other technology Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Market opportunity by technology

PART 07: CUSTOMER LANDSCAPE

PART 08: GEOGRAPHIC LANDSCAPE

Geographic segmentation

Geographic comparison

North America Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Europe Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Asia Market size and forecast 2019-2024

ROW 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

Business strategies

Growth in number of veterinarians and their income in developed countries

Rising demand for pet insurance with growing animal health expenditure

PART 12: VENDOR LANDSCAPE

Overview

Landscape disruption

Competitive scenario

PART 13: VENDOR ANALYSIS

Vendors covered

Vendor classification

Market positioning of vendors

Aspect Imaging Ltd.

Bruker Corp.

FUJIFILM Holdings Corp.

Heska Corp.

IDEXX Laboratories Inc.

LI-COR Inc.

MR Solutions Ltd.

PerkinElmer Inc.

Promega Corp.

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.

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 focuses 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/20200930005952/en/

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Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media Marketing Executive

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UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: media@technavio.com

Website: www.technavio.com/
Motorist cut free from two vehicle crash

A motorist was freed from their car following a two-vehicle crash yesterday.

Emergency services were called Main Road near the Santon Motel following a collision at about 2pm.

Fire crews from Castletown and Douglas extracted one person from a car.

The casualty was taken by ambulance to hospital to have their injuries assessed.

The road was closed for around an hour for recovery work.
Shana Selena Decree, 47, (L) and her daughter Dominique Kiaran Decree, 21, pled guilty but mentally ill to five counts of first-degree murder and one count of criminal conspiracy (Buck's County District Attorney's office)

A Pennsylvania mother and daughter have pled guilty to the massacre of five of their family members, officials have said.

Shana Selena Decree, 47, and her daughter Dominique Kiaran Decree, 21, pled guilty but mentally ill to five counts of first-degree murder and one count of criminal conspiracy, Buck's County District Attorney's office said.

The women killed five family members: Shana Decrees children, NaaIrah Smith, 25, and Damon Decree Jr, 13, her sister, Jamilla Campbell, 42, and Campbells 9-year-old twin daughters, Imani and Erika Allen, prosecutors said.

They have been sentenced to five consecutive life sentences, avoiding the death penalty as part of the negotiated plea.

"Were it not for their severe mental illness, both would face the death penalty, District Attorney Matt Weintraub said in a statement following the sentencing.

As it stands, they both will spend the rest of their lives in prison cells separated from the rest of us, as punishment.

President Judge Wallace H Bateman Jr described the case as "horrific and sad at the same time."

The murders occurred between 23 February and 25 February in 2019, according to the attorneys office. The bodies were discovered in the afternoon of 15 February.

Autopsies determined that four victims: Erika Allen, Imani Allen, Damon Decree, and NaaIrah Smith, were killed by homicidal asphyxia. Jamilla Campbell was killed by homicidal ligature strangulation, officials said.

According to the release, separate mental health professionals said they believed that both were guilty but mentally ill at the time of the murders.

John Fioravanti Jr, Dominque's lawyer, told CNN that this was one of the hardest cases he had ever worked and described Dominique Decrees remorse.

"She was very remorseful and pleasant to deal with," Mr Fioravanti Jr said. "It's very troubling for me. One of the hardest cases I've ever had and I've been doing this a long time."

Story continues

Shana Decree spoke emotionally about the crimes on Monday morning, USA Today reported.

"To my family, I am sorry for taking away such beautiful souls in such a horrible manner," she reportedly said.

During the investigation, Shana Decree is said to have told investigators that all five victims wanted to die, according to the district attorney's office.

Chief Deputy District Attorney Christopher W Rees said he had "never dealt with a case as heartbreaking as this in a statement.

I have never seen a case with this level of sadness, with this level of loss, he said.
Out this week is the highly anticipated JW Anderson collection from Monclers Genius, an ongoing collaborative series between the Italian-based brand and various designers, such as Simone Rocha, Richard Quinn and Matthew M. Williams of 1017 ALYX 9SM. Im from Northern Ireland, Anderson explained of his interest in Moncler over Zoom, so Im very used to the cold. Many of the collections 31 looks (around 180 pieces in total) were references to Andersons own prolific archive as a designer for his namesake brand (he is also the creative director of Loewe)  details such as floppy, wide-brimmed hats and oversize chains for the handle of a bag might look a little familiar  but all are rendered in Monclers signature nylon material to keep out the frost. Ive always loved puffers, he added. I love the shape they create. Ive always wanted to play with it in my own collections. Theres nothing better than volume. It boosts the theatrics, and you can build character out of it and create a kind of abstraction. Not one to shy away from bold colors, Anderson chose to work with canary yellow, silky pink, red and a bright sky blue for many of the items. A long vest printed with mallards and other pond fauna, with matching boots and bag, also stands out. Anderson acknowledged it was his way of exploring nostalgia: I was thinking of summer camp, and a kids sleeping bag. Both playful and dramatic, Andersons cerebral collection promises to not just keep you warm but make you think. moncler.com.
With relationship abuse, there is no one-size-fits-all-solution  but for some survivors, Wearsafe can be a great source of protection and peace of mind, says Katie Ray-Jones, CEO of the National Domestic Violence Hotline.

Wearsafe Labs, creators of personal safety and emergency communication products via IoT and mobile devices, is proud to announce that as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, they are expanding their Givesafe Program to support nonprofits. In addition to donating 20% of sales to partner organizations, Wearsafe will offer donors the ability to double their impact when they designate their contribution to an organization for the purchase of Wearsafe Tags. Wearsafe will then match the designated gift with an in-kind donation of Wearsafe Tags in the same amount. Wearsafe is also working with nonprofits to provide products to its community members who need them most- at a discounted price.

"After my parents experienced a horrible fire in their home, couldnt reach me, and I didn't find out about it until hours later. I had to find a way for them to call for help without using their phone," says David Benoit, co-founder, and CEO of Wearsafe. Today, when a person presses the Wearsafe Tag, a preselected group of contacts is sent an alert via text and an email containing live audio and exact GPS location, so that the right help can be coordinated, right away. With so many people isolated due to COVID, calling for help is even more difficult. Our Givesafe Program provides multiple paths to get Wearsafe into the hands of people who need it most and help organizations raise funds critical to achieving their missions. The Givesafe Program has strategic partnerships with the National Domestic Violence Hotline, amfAR, the Ali Forney Center, and End Allergies Together," adds Benoit.

"When survivors reach out to our advocates, they are looking for support, validation, safety planning, and connection to local resources. By informing our contacts of Wearsafe's platform and the nondescript Wearsafe Tag, we can provide another option for survivors to access immediate support and safety, without having to say a word," says Katie Ray-Jones, CEO of the National Domestic Violence Hotline. With relationship abuse, there is no one-size-fits-all-solution  but for some survivors, Wearsafe can be a great source of protection and peace of mind.

"The in-kind matching component of the Givesafe Program is a game-changer for any organization, especially those with limited funding but, who have the pressing need to help the population they serve to stay connected and safe," says Alexander Roque, President and Executive Director of the Ali Forney Center. We are so grateful for financial support from donors, and with Wearsafes in-kind match, we can double the impact of a donor gift and can provide Wearsafe to even more of our homeless LGBTQ+ community members who will benefit greatly from the protection it provides.

About Wearsafe Labs

Wearsafe Labs, pioneers of personal protection products and communication services, is redening the way people seek and provide help via its IoT platform and mobile app software. Based in Hartford, Connecticut, the Wearsafe platform provides consumers with comprehensive features including real-time tracking, live audio, voice activation, and more, all in a universal application. Wearsafe also has embedded Accident Medical Expense Insurance coverage from Zurich Insurance Company into every Wearsafe Tag at NO additional cost to the user, which provides medical expense coverage in the event a user experiences an accident and is ever injured. Wearsafe-enabled devices have been used in over 115 countries and provide more accurate data and context than any other personal safety technology. To learn more, visit wearsafe.com.
In this special episode of Whats Next, Aki Anastasiou talks to three of the top energy experts to unpack the state of the energy industry in South Africa, which is in crisis.

Demand for electricity continues to increase, which is adding strain to Eskoms fragile electricity grid.

There is also a global drive to phase out fossil fuels and alternative reliable energy sources are therefore being considered for the future  including those that dont require sunlight or wind to function efficiently.

The interview starts with Chris Yelland, Managing Director at EE Business Intelligence, explaining the current state of South Africas power grid.

Yelland says South Africans are forced to look for alternative energy sources to continue their daily operations during load-shedding.

In the second part of the interview, Andrada Manu, National Product Manager for Eaton at Mustek Limited, unpacks the various alternative energy options that are available.

Manu also provides examples of how these alternative energy options can be implemented by households and businesses.

The interview concludes with Jaco Du Plooy, Eaton Product Manager for Africa, discussing the challenges and solutions of the alternative energy options that were detailed by Manu.

Du Plooy also details the relationship between Mustek and Eaton, as well as their strategy for the future  with a particular focus placed on addressing long term energy challenges.

The full interview is embedded below. You can watch all Whats Next with Aki Anastasiou interviews here.
A hypothetical question asking women what they would do if men disappeared from Earth for 24 hours has elicited a devastating response from thousands of women.

The initial question attracted thousands of responses globally across TikTok, Facebook and Twitter - and most of them had one thing in common.

The overwhelming majority of women said they would use the opportunity to go for a stroll, alone and after dark, without the fear of being followed by a man.

Others said they would stop carrying their car keys in between their fingers 'like a weapon' when walking at night and could use both earphones when listening to music in public.

While the responses have given rise to vicious trolling from men and women who take offence to the post, the statistics speak for themselves.

Aiia Maasarwe was on her way home in Melbourne in January 2019 when she was raped and murdered by Codey Herrmann after getting off a tram in Bundoora

Perhaps most notorious was the rape and torture of registered nurse and beauty queen Anita Cobby in 1986

So far in 2020, 44 women have been killed, along with 21 children and 112 men. Of those deaths, 199 suspects are male and just 26 are female.

The nation mourned the deaths of Aiia Maasarwe, Eurydice Dixon and Courtney Herron, who were all killed in Melbourne by men while walking alone at night, in 2018 and 2019.

After Ms Dixon's death, Superintendent David Clayton was slammed for encouraging women to have 'more situational awareness' while walking in public.

'So just make sure you have situational awareness, that you're aware of your surroundings,' Clayton said. 'If you've got a mobile phone carry it and if you've got any concerns, call police.'

The message prompted a scathing response from Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews, who made it an election promise in 2014 to do more to keep women safe.

'We'll keep asking ''Why was she alone in the dark?'' instead of asking ''Why was he?''. We'll keep ignoring the real problem, instead of actually fixing it. So our message to Victorian women is this: Stay home. Or don't.

'Go out with friends at night. Or don't. Go about your day exactly as you intend, on your terms. Because women don't need to change their behaviour. Men do.'

After Ms Dixon's death, Premier Daniel Andrews (pictured) vowed to help keep women safe

In total, more than 30,000 people responded to the question across Facebook, Tik Tok and Twitter.

The overwhelming majority were women who said they would feel safer performing everyday tasks without men for 24 hours.

From going for a walk alone at night, to stargazing and jogging with both earphones in, women revealed they fear for their safety if they are alone after dark.

But the post also sparked a debate in feminism and sexism, with thousands of men jumping to the defence of their gender as a whole to preach the message of 'not all men'.

Dozens of comments condemned women for 'playing the victim card' while other men agreed that they've never held concerns for their safety when walking alone after dark.

Most of the men felt they were being unfairly targeted in a post that should have specifically called out 'evil men'.

In total, more than 30,000 people responded to the question across Facebook, Tik Tok and Twitter

'We are fully aware that not every single man is threatening,' one woman wrote. 'We are just stating that most of the time we avoid doing certain things we would like to do out of fear of being kidnapped, raped or harassed.'

'We have a true fear of being attacked because we're women. There's a history of it. This does not invalidate any man's story of being attacked or abused. This is not saying that you're all horrible people because you're male,' another added.

'To say that we're crying victim or over exaggerating is not true. These things happen every day and we're taught to not walk alone at night, keep one earbud out, not to wear ponytails in public.'

It circles back to the argument that while not all men are violent or dangerous, most women have heard enough horror stories in their lives to feel concerned about their safety if they come across an unfamiliar stranger in a public place.

A 2018 study found 80 per cent of men said they had no concerns about walking alone after dark, but just 50 per cent of women agreed.

From going for a walk alone at night, to stargazing and jogging with both earphones in, women revealed they fear for their safety if they are alone after dark

22-year-old Eurydice Dixon was stalked for more than an hour and raped and murdered in Carlton North's Princes Park by a stranger later identified as Jaymes Todd, 19

But history indicates there is good reason for women to fear being caught alone after dark.

Aiia Maasarwe was on her way home in Melbourne in January 2019 when she was raped and murdered by Codey Herrmann after getting off a tram in Bundoora.

Herrmann repeatedly beat Ms Maasarwe over the head with a metal pole and sexually assaulted her, before covering her body in flammable WD-40 spray and setting her alight.

The pair did not know one another.

A year earlier, 22-year-old Eurydice Dixon was stalked for more than an hour and raped and murdered in Carlton North's Princes Park by a stranger later identified as Jaymes Todd, 19.

She had spent the night in a comedy club and was walking home after her performance.

In May 2019, 25-year-old homeless woman Courtney Herron was murdered by another rough-sleeper, Henry Hammond, in a park

Todd was sentenced to life behind bars with a non parole period of 35 years - a sentence which he argued was manifestly excessive due to his youth and previously clean record.

In May 2019, 25-year-old homeless woman Courtney Herron was murdered by another rough-sleeper, Henry Hammond, in a park.

Ms Herron was beaten with a stick for up to 50 minutes before her legs were tied together and she was dragged into a clearing and covered with branches, giving her what he described to police as a 'symbolic burial'.

Perhaps most notorious was the rape and torture of registered nurse and beauty queen Anita Cobby in 1986.

The 26-year-old was walking home from Blacktown station in Sydney's west when she was kidnapped by five men who repeatedly raped her, beat her and eventually slit her throat.
Minister of Defense of Armenia Davit Tonoyan today met with Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of France to Armenia Jonathan Lacote, as reported the news service of the Ministry of Defense.

The Ambassador expressed his condolences on the occasion of the deaths of soldiers and civilians as a result of the hostilities of the past few days and stated that France is strictly concerned over the tense situation and is closely following the developments.

The defense minister informed that the volume of hostilities launched by Azerbaijan with Turkeys unconditional support is unprecedented and that the hostilities are taking place along the entire length of the line of contact. Tonoyan emphasized that the Defense Army of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) is completing its tasks, achieving more success and restraining the adversarys aggression, and there will be devastating blows to the Azerbaijani armed forces attacks, adding that the process has already been launched.

During the meeting, the parties agreed to be in constant touch and exchange information about the developments.
A Vestavia Hills doctor convicted of producing and possessing child pornography was sentenced Wednesday to federal prison.

Dr. Ronald Tai Young Moon Jr., 56, was convicted in February after five days of testimony before U.S. District Judge Annemarie Axon. He has now been sentenced to 30 years in prison, according to an announcement Thursday by U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona and FBI Special Agent in Charge Johnnie Sharp, Jr.

Moons sentencing hearing began at 1 p.m. Wednesday and lasted for hours. In addition to the lengthy sentence, Moon was ordered to serve five years of supervised release and, by law, will also be required to register as a sex offender.

Unfortunately, this sentence will not undo the harm suffered by Moons victims, Escalona said. However, understanding that the consequences of this conduct is severe might discourage other sexual predators from victimizing innocent children in this district.

I am proud of the effort put forth by my agents in order to ensure this defendant was brought to justice and will no longer be able to harm children, Sharp said. Moon serving the next 30 years in federal prison ensures there is one less predator victimizing the most innocent and vulnerable members of our community.

Moon, who lives in Liberty Park and up until his arrest last year practiced at his clinic in Birmingham, has worked as a physical medicine doctor at The Industrial Athlete located in Birmingham. The FBI investigated the case, which Assistant U.S. Attorney John B. Ward and First Assistant U.S. Attorney Lloyd Peeples prosecuted. Moons defense team includes James Parkman, William White and Clayton Tartt.

Moon was arrested June 4, 2019 on charges of producing and possessing child pornography. According to his practices Facebook page, Moon practiced osteopathic manual techniques and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. As part of his holistic practice, Moon offered Suboxone treatments to help fight opioid dependency.

Federal investigators raided The Industrial Athlete as part of an ongoing probe into health care fraud. The health care fraud investigation was led by the DEA, HHS, and FBI. He was not charged with any fraud-related crimes.

It was during the 2019 search that investigators found 27 VHS tapes in Moons private office at The Industrial Athlete alongside a television-VCR combination. Authorities also found evidence of covert cameras and instruction manuals for the cameras, Evidence at trial proved that between the mid-1990s and about 2012, Moon secretly recorded neighbors and guests in his own home, including minors as young as 12 and 13 years. Some of those individuals were filmed naked, both dressing and undressing.

Moon was accused of filming teen girls undressing in his pool house without their knowledge and possessing commercial pornography depicting what experts categorized as a rare amount of sexual violence. The FBI, with assistance from the DEA, led the investigation into the child pornography charges.

At an earlier hearing, FBI Intelligence Analyst Tina Mauldin, who has worked in that capacity for 25 years and examined hundreds of thousands of child pornographic images, testified as to what she saw on the tapes seized from Moons office.

Of the 27 tapes, Mauldin said, 25 of them contained pornography. Of those 25, about six or seven involved child pornography.

She said the view on those tapes was from a camera hidden in a residential bathroom, alleged to be at Moons home on Reynolds Lane in Liberty Park. The videos, she said, involved young teen girls changing into and out of their bathing suits. At times they were naked, and their breasts and genitalia visible on the recordings. Some were also seen going to the bathroom.

One of the recordings, she testified, shows Moon walking into the bathroom and looking directly at the camera. She said he was clearly identifiable in the image.

Mauldin said investigators identified five of the teen girls and interviewed them. The girls were able to identify themselves and each other in recordings, she said, and all said they had no idea they were being recorded. They had attended a pool party at his home. They were shown the images of the man that appeared in the same bathroom and identified him as Moon.

Mauldin also testified to other records described by authorities as voyeuristic. They involved two different families and appeared to have been recorded at night and from outside of a window into the homes. Both adults and children were seen naked in those recordings and also were unaware they were being recorded in various stages of undress.

As for commercial videos recovered from Moons office, Mauldin testified they included bondage, torture, beating, rape, electrocution of genitals, attempted drowning, suspension from the ceiling, forced eating of feces and forced drinking of urine.

Under questioning by prosecutors, Mauldin said those recordings depicted "the worst violence Ive ever seen,'' in her career as an FBI analyst. She said of the hundreds of thousands of pornographic images or recordings shes examined, those in Moons possession rose to a rare level of violence.
Some very clever cats are able to recognise and imitate human actions on command  even better than some dogs  a study has reported.

Hungarian researchers worked with an 11-year-old kitty named Ebisu, who had been taught by her dog-trainer owner to copy her using the so-called 'do-as-I-do' method.

This is a training regime long-applied to canines, in which the trainer says a command (i.e. "Do as I do!") before undertaking a particular actions.

The trainer then follows up with a second command (such as, say, "Do it!") to prompt the animal to mimic the displayed action in order to get a reward  such as a treat.

Very few animals are able to perform the copy-cat trick  although, alongside dogs, it has also been observed in apes, dolphins and killer whales.

However, this is the first time that such behaviour has been formally observed in a cat and written up in the scientific literature, the team claimed.

Nevertheless, the researchers believe this ability in cats is likely not limited to Ebisu.

Scroll down for video

Some very clever cats are able to recognise and imitate human actions on command  even better than some dogs  a study has reported. Pictured, Ebisu the cat watches her owner, Fumi Higaki, in preparation to repeat the latter's action

Hungarian researchers worked with an 11-year-old kitty named Ebisu, who had been taught by her dog-trainer owner to copy her using the so-called 'do-as-I-do' method. Pictured: after owner Fumi Higaki rubbed her face against a cardboard box (left) Ebisu does the same (right)

'Our experiment provides the first evidence that the Do as I Do paradigm can be applied to cats,' wrote animal behaviour expert Claudia Fugazza of the Eotvos Lorand University and colleagues in their paper.

'Based on the cats performance, we argue that she has the ability to map the different body parts and movements of the human demonstrator into her own body parts and movements, at least to some extent,' the team added.

'The ability of reproducing the actions of a [human] in well-socialized cats may pave the way for future studies addressing cats imitative skills.'

Dr Fugazza first met Ebisu's owner  Ichinomiya, Japan, resident and dog trainer Fumi Higaki  as a result of her work into canine cognition.

When Ms Higaki told the researcher that she had also trained Ebisu  who she added had always been 'exceptionally motivated for food', making her ideal for instruction  Dr Fugazza was keen to see the behaviour, Gizmodo reported.

In fact, Ebisu only took five months to master imitation, Ms Higaki told the team.

Following 18 tests  which the researchers recorded a slight distance away from Ebisu, who is wary of strangers  they found that the cat successfully imitated Ms Higaki behaviour when prompted 81 per cent of the time.

The actions Ebisu emulated included spinning around, touching a toy or cardboard box, opening a small drawer or laying down.

The team noted that when Ms Higaki did actions that were not particularly cat-like  such as raising both hands up in the air  Ebisu was able to figure out how to perform a similar manoeuvre (like standing on her back legs with her front paws up).

The advantage of the 'Do as I do' approach is that it breaks the process down into two distinct steps  helping to mitigate the possibility that Ebisu was only appearing to imitate her owner, but in fact reacting to non-verbal cues.

'In studies where the "two action" method is used, cueing is controlled for, because different actions are demonstrated on the same object,' Dr Fugazza told Gizmodo.

'In this case, even if the demonstrator would give a visual cue to send the animal in the direction of the given object, the cue would still not tell the animal what action to do on it,' she explained.

'These are untrained actions, so they cannot be commanded by a cue  because there is no cue that has previously been associated to them.'

'Our experiment provides the first evidence that the Do as I Do paradigm can be applied to cats,' wrote animal behaviour expert Claudia Fugazza of the Eotvos Lorand University and colleagues in their paper. Pictured: after owner Fumi Higaki touches a cardboard box (left) Ebisu does the same (right)

Unfortunately, Ebisu passed away in early 2019  shortly after performing for the researchers  as a result of having a kidney disease.

However, Dr Fugazza is hopeful that other felines might be similarly trained in the future so that researchers can study the imitation ability across a wider range of cats of different ages, breeds and familiarity with the person they are copying.

'I hope that somebody will take up the challenge to do it, but I am also aware of the difficulties and time needed to train cats,' Dr Fugazza told Gizmodo.

'So, I feel its a matter of time and resources,' she concluded.

The full findings of the study were published in the journal Animal Cognition.
Amit Shah likely to visit Bengal before Durga Puja

India

pti-Madhuri Adnal

Kolkata, Oct 01: Union Home Minister and senior BJP leader Amit Shah is likely to visit West Bengal before Durga Puja to look into the party's organisational aspects ahead of state assembly polls due in 2021, its state president Dilip Ghosh said on Thursday.

BJP national president J P Nadda is likely to visit the state after the Pujas to be held later this month, he said. Amid murmurs of discontent in BJP's Bengal satrap, Shah along with Nadda held a meeting with the top brass of the state unit on Thursday and discussed various organisational issues.

Amit Shah compliments successful test-firing of BrahMos supersonic cruise missile

"Today we had an organisational meeting with Amit Shah Ji and J P Nadda Ji. We discussed various issues related to our growth in the state. Most likely Amit Shah Ji will come to Bengal for an organisational meeting with other party leaders state-level leaders.

The date of his visit will be announced later," Ghosh said after the closed-door meet. The date of Nadda's visit to West bengal is yet to be decided, he said.

According to sources in BJP, during their visit both Shah and Nadda will take stock of the organisational situation of the state unit and also ground level political situation in Bengal.

"Our party leadership has big plans for Bengal. After our spectacular success in the Lok Sabha polls in 2019 nearly one crore people of Bengal had registered for the party's membership during its nationwide campaign. Bengal is one of the focus states of the party," they said.

The organisational restructuring of BJP's central unit had sparked off discontent in the Bengal unit as senior leader Rahul Sinha, who was dropped as the national secretary, expressed his anger over being left out. Sinha too had been asked to present at the meeting held this afternoon. He declined to comment when asked whether the meeting discussed his grievances.

"I will wait for 10-12 days before announcing my next line of action," he had said earlier. Announcing a new team of the party's national office bearers on Saturday, the BJP had named Mukul Roy as a vice- president, and Anupam Hazra, a former TMC MP who had joined the saffron party in March 2019, as a secretary. Roy, once considered the number two in the TMC next to its supremo Mamata Banerjee, had switched over to the BJP in 2017 following differences with her.
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HOLLAND, MI  A dispute between a Hudsonville business owner and a Holland-area resident over a controversial political sign is gaining attention in West Michigan.

Marla Drost, 73, who lives north of Holland, said she was recently pursuing the anti-President Donald Trump Facebook page Nasty Women of Michigan when she noticed a picture of an anti-Joe Biden political sign.

The sign, planted in the yard of Hudsonville business owner Douglas Smith, said, "Joe & the Ho: Vote No 2020.

Drost told MLive she was upset when she saw the picture because the sign is demeaning to Biden and his vice-presidential running mate, Calif. Sen. Kamala Harris.

Frustration with the sign prompted Drost to send a Facebook message to Smiths business, Smittys Truck Wash, that stated: Despise your political sign! Hope you lose business because of it!

She then received an expletive filled reply stating, Go **** yourself **** we wont lose business over it us Republicans work no like you worthless **** liberals. Drost provided MLive with a screen shot of the online exchange.

Smith, 54, who lives in Holland, could not be reached for comment. A representative who answered the phone at Smiths Truck Wash said he was not working today. No one answered when an MLive reporter knocked on the door of his Holland home.

The offensive yard sign that was captured on Facebook had since been moved to one of the homes second-story windows.

The dispute between Drost and Smith was first reported by The Holland Sentinel. Smith told The Sentinel that he had placed the sign in his homes yard. However, he said his company was not responsible for the Facebook messages with Drost.

That wasnt my business Facebook page, he told The Sentinel. I dont use my business Facebook page. You dont understand. We are tied to the Nasty Women of Michigan and they dont have a clue whats going on. We see everything theyre saying.

The Facebook page for Smittys Truck Wash has since been deactivated.

Drost said she was taken aback when she saw the Facebook reply.

I just think theres a lot of meanness coming out of people this election season, and I dont think its good, she said.

Read more:

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Bruce Willis was an all-American movie heartthrob in red white and blue bandannas while out in Los Angeles this Wednesday.

The 65-year-old Die Hard superstar could be spotted picking up some takeout at a Le Pain Quotidien in Beverly Hills.

Wrapping a red and white bandanna around his forehead, he used a blue and white bandanna as a face mask while emerging from lockdown.

Out and about: Bruce Willis was an all-American movie heartthrob in red white and blue bandannas while out in Los Angeles this Wednesday

Bruce modeled a pair of faded blue jeans and a striped T-shirt, rounding off his California casual ensemble with sneakers.

He has returned to Los Angeles after a period of self-isolation in Idaho with a bubble that included his five daughters and their mothers.

The Pulp Fiction star shares his three elder daughters Rumer, 32, Scout, 29, and Tallulah, 26 with his ex-wife Demi Moore.

Here and there: The 65-year-old Die Hard superstar could be spotted picking up some takeout at a Le Pain Quotidien in Beverly Hills

Bruce also has two little ones called Mabel, eight, and Evelyn, six, with his current wife Emma Heming who is more than two decades his junior.

Despite the coronavirus lockdowns Bruce has had two movie releases this year, Hard Kill which came out in August and Survive The Night which bowed in May.

Hard Kill stars Bruce opposite Desperate Housewives dreamboat Jesse Metcalfe and also features Vanderpump Rules diva Lala Kent.

Action star: Despite the coronavirus lockdowns Bruce has had two movie releases this year including Survive The Night in which he is pictured with Lydia Hull

One of the producers of the film was Lala's fiance Randall Emmett, and earlier this month she announced she is expecting their baby.

Meanwhile Survive The Night starred Bruce alongside blond bombshell Chad Michael Murray of One Tree Hill fame.

Both films were directed by Matt Eskandari and were savaged by critics - Survive The Night has 15% on Rotten Tomatoes and Hard Kill has 0%.
The Maldives has become the first country in the world to offer a traveller loyalty rewards program.

The south Asian country will give points towards perks for regular visitors, it announced.

Maldives Border Miles will reward tourists for regular visits, with members progressing up three tiers: Aida (Bronze), Antara (Silver) and Abaarana (Gold).

The three names come from Divehi, the country's main local language and the program will begin on December 1 this year, as the country seeks to draw back tourists during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Maldives has become the first country in the world to offer a traveller loyalty rewards program

Points will be awarded on each border occasion, with more given for visits on special occasions, and regular visitors will earn special privileges and move up the three tiers.

Maldives Immigration said: 'Maldives Border Miles is a three-tiered loyalty program focused on tourism promotion.

'Tourists enrolled to this program will earn points for each border crossing. Additional points are rewarded for the visits on special occasions.

'Once the tourist reaches to a tally of a specific amount of points, privileges are rewarded with amazing benefits.

'As they move up the tiers, privileges are enhanced, and benefits are made exclusive.'

It is not yet known what perks will be given to customers but industry experts have hailed the innovative move by the country's tourism board.

Scott Keyes, founder of the Scott's Cheap Flights newsletter, told CNN: 'It is perhaps the most innovative move by a country's tourism board since Iceland's "free stopover en route to Europe" program.

'Most tourism boards focus solely on glitzy ad campaigns and Photoshopped spreads, but this campaign from Maldives is both new and unique.'

The Maldives was one of the first countries to reopen its borders during the coronavirus pandemic on July 15, having closed them on March 27.

Pictured: Abdulla Shahid, Foreign Minister of Maldives, speaks in a pre-recorded message which played during the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday

Tourism accounts for a majority of the country's foreign exchange earnings, with around 1.7 million tourist arrivals recorded in 2019.

It currently requires all tourists and short term visitors to present a negative PCR test for Covid-19 on arrival.

The test and negative PCR certificate must be issued no more than 72 hours prior to departure.

Screening procedures are in place for passengers on arrival, with quarantine facilities set up to isolate any suspected cases of coronavirus.
The Freedom From Religion Foundation has filed a federal lawsuit challenging Alabamas mandatory religious oath for voter registration.

Alabama is the only state in the country that requires voters to register on a form mandating they swear so help me God, without allowing any option of a secular affirmation, the Madison, Wisconsin-based group said.

The foundation is filing on behalf of four Alabama citizens who have encountered and objected to the religious test when trying to register to vote. The defendant is Alabama Secretary of State John H. Merrill.

The Alabama secretary of state excludes Alabama citizens from being able to vote if they are unable to swear a religious oath, the lawsuit states. The secretary of states official policy is to hinder the registration of voters who are unable to swear so help me God. This policy violates the rights of the plaintiffs and others under the First and 14th Amendments to the United States Constitution.

The lead plaintiff, an atheist, Randal Cragun, has sought to register to vote in Alabama since November 2019, using a mail-in form downloaded from the secretary of states website. The bottom of the voter declaration section warns, Read and sign under penalty of perjury, and adds: If you falsely sign this statement, you can be convicted and imprisoned for up to five years. Voters submitting this registration form in Alabama must sign the voter declaration, beginning I solemnly swear or affirm and concluding with so help me God.

Cragun contacted the secretary of states office to ask about the process to register to vote without swearing an oath reading, so help me God. The following day, the director of elections informed him, There is no legal mechanism to register to vote in AL without signing the oath as it is stated. He continued, If you cross out a portion, the board of registrars in your county will reject the application and ask you to resubmit.

The secretary of state maintains that the registration forms are prescribed by statute and that any changes would require legislative action. FFRFs lawsuit points out that the secretary of state has the authority to create and amend voter registration forms. Alabama is the only state in the United States that requires voters to register on a form mandating they swear so help me God. In all other states, voters are provided a completely secular registration form or are not required to submit an oath or affirmation at all.

Government officials also routinely allow attorneys, jurors, witnesses and many others who must take an oath to make a secular affirmation instead when they are unable to swear so help me God as a matter of conscience.

The foundation said it previously sent a letter to the secretary of state, noting that any requirement for religious oaths violates the First Amendment of the Constitution, which bars religious tests. In Torcaso v. Watkins, the Supreme Court held that neither a state nor the federal government may force a person to profess a belief or disbelief in any religion. The prohibition on mandatory religious oaths is a well-settled issue, FFRFs letter added.

A prior case brought in Alabama in the 1970s was resolved in favor of a challenger to a mandatory oath. In Nicholson v. Bd. of Commrs of Ala. State Bar Assn, the court said, We hold that it is a violation of the Constitution for the state of Alabama to compel plaintiff to swear an oath invoking the help of God as a prerequisite to entering upon the practice of law.

The plaintiffs, and FFRF on their behalf, are seeking the following relief: A permanent injunction (a) prohibiting the secretary of state from requiring voters who register to swear so help me God, and (b) ordering the secretary of state to provide registration forms that permit the plaintiffs to register to vote without swearing so help me God.

The plaintiffs are also asking for a declaratory judgment that the secretary of state has violated the U.S. Constitution by issuing voter registration forms that require all registrants to swear so help me God without the option of a secular affirmation.

The secretary of state has willfully excluded nontheist citizens from registering to vote, says FFRF Senior Litigation Counsel Patrick Elliott, and is coercing a statement of belief in a monotheistic god by requiring nontheists to swear a religious oath.

It is deplorable that in our secular nation nontheistic citizens are encountering a religious test to register to vote, said Freedom From Religion Foundation Co-President Annie Laurie Gaylor. No citizen should have to choose between their right to vote and their freedom of conscience.

The four plaintiffs are Cragun, Chris Nelson, Heather Coleman and Robert Corker.

The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama, Southern Division. Steven P. Gregory of the Birmingham-based Gregory Law Firm is serving as the local counsel. FFRF Senior Litigation Counsel Patrick Elliott and FFRF Associate Counsel Liz Cavell are also attorneys in the case.
More than half of the Ukrainians surveyed are ready to vote in a referendum for Ukraine's membership in NATO and the European Union, according to a survey conducted by the Center for Social and Marketing Research SOCIS in September.

If the referendum on Ukraine's accession to Euro-Atlantic structures was held in the near future, 57.6% of respondents would support EU membership, 27% would vote against, 5.3% would not participate in the plebiscite and every tenth (10.2%) refused to answer.

Some 52.5% of those polled would support joining NATO, 30.5% would vote against, 5.4% would not participate in the plebiscite and 11.7% refused to answer.

The telephone survey was conducted from September 18 to September 28, 2020 throughout Ukraine (in all regions, including Kyiv), except for Russia-occupied Crimea and Donbas.

Some 2,000 respondents over the age of 18 were interviewed. The statistical error of the study (confidence interval) is +/- 2.2%.
Photo: The Canadian Press Clare Bronfman arrives at federal court, Wednesday, in New York.

An heir to the Seagrams liquor fortune was sentenced Wednesday to an 81-month prison term and immediately thrown behind bars for her role as an unwavering benefactor of Keith Raniere, the disgraced self-improvement guru convicted of turning women into sex slaves who were branded with his initials.

U.S. District Judge Nicholas Garaufis gave Clare Bronfman the harsh sentence at a hearing lasting more than three hours and featuring emotional statements from several victims gathered in a courtroom under strict coronavirus safety protocols. The judge repeatedly scolded Clare Bronfman for standing by Raniere and his upstate New York organization, even after the evidence made clear she eventually became aware of his sex-trafficking scheme.

With that knowledge, she could have distanced herself from him, the judge said, his bench fitted with a sheet of plexiglass. Instead, she chose to double down on her support of Raniere.

Before hearing the sentence, the 41 year-old Bronfman had told the judge in a soft voice that she was thankful for the prayers of her supporters.

It doesnt mean I havent made mistakes because I have made mistakes, said Bronfman without mentioning Raniere.

The sentence far exceeded the three years probation sought by the defence and even the five years the government wanted for Bronfman, who had been under home confinement. She also was fined $500,000.

Bronfman, 41, admitted in a guilty plea last year that she harboured someone who was living in the U.S. illegally for unpaid labour and services and that she committed credit card fraud on behalf of Raniere. But her lawyers had argued she deserved leniency because she had no direct involvement in the case's most disturbing allegations against the 60-year-old Raniere.

At trial where Rainere was found guilty last year, prosecutors told jurors his organization, NXIVM  pronounced NEHK-see-uhm  operated like a cult whose members called him Vanguard. To honour him, the group formed a secret sorority comprised of brainwashed female slaves who were branded with his initials and forced to have sex with him, the prosecutors said.

Bronfman had long been affiliated with NXIVM, giving away tens of million of dollars to bankroll Raniere and his program of intense self-improvement workshops that prosecutors labeled a pyramid scheme. Ex-followers told the judge on Wednesday that for years, Bronfman has used her wealth to try to silence NXIVM defectors.

Barbara Bouchey, a former Raniere girlfriend who worked as a financial planner for Bronfman before quitting the group, described how Bronfman used lawyers to threaten litigation and seek false criminal charges. She claimed the harassment has continued even as the defendant was approaching sentencing.

Youve been under house arrest for two years, yet you have never stopped, Bouchey said through tears. Will you never stop?

A victim of the forced-labour scheme, an immigrant who didnt give her name, described how Bronfman lured her into the group with the promise of a good job, only to find herself being threatened with visa problems if she didnt do menial chores for little pay and endure Ranieres exploits.

At one point, Bronfman addressed the woman directly, saying, I truly hope you can forgive me and live a happy life. The judge berated Bronfman for the remark while imposing the sentence, suggesting it fit an unchecked pattern of manipulation that left him speechless.

Along with Bronfman, Ranieres teachings won him the devotion of Hollywood actresses like Allison Mack of TVs Smallville. Mack also has pleaded guilty and, like Rainere, is awaiting sentencing.

As part of a plea agreement, Bronfman agreed to forfeit $6 million from a fortune prosecutors have said is worth $200 million.
PHILIPSBURG:--- In reply to a letter received from MP Claudius Toontje Buncamper of the USP Faction in parliament, Minister of VROMI, Egbert Doran responded to the various questions posed and suggestions made by the MP.

MP Buncamper, referring in his letter to the property currently being exploited by Rain Forest Adventure (RFA), questioned the Minister on, among other things, the illustrious plans for agriculture/reforestation of the Cul de Sac area and suggested that we take back at least two-thirds of the lands, seeing the need to have land available for agriculture and that the property was acquired for such purposes, including a natural park.

The Minister informed MP Bucamper that there are no known plans for agriculture and that the agreed reforestation program was carried out between July 2017 and May 2018. In the development agreement between RFA and country St. Maarten it is stated that RFA together with country St. Maarten will jointly develop a number of programs, one being for the reforestation of all indigenous plants and trees on St. Maarten. There is no mention of agricultural plans or programs in the Development Agreement. However, the reforestation programs were realized when RFA and Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) worked together on a BEST 2.0 European funded project. The project resulted in the reforestation of three sites on St. Maarten, one being the grounds of RFA on which some 300 indigenous trees were planted and are being maintained by RFA.

Minister Doran, in his response, also informed the MP that a request was filed by RFA to relinquish or give back a substantial part of the leased land to the government. Although the precise dimensions of the piece of land that will be relinquished are still being concluded, it looks like it will be approximately 44% of the property. The department of domain affairs is in the final stages of handling the request. The Minister emphasized that the property of RFA was not acquired for agricultural purposes; the Development Agreement states that it is for the purpose of an Eco-Adventure and Nature Park. RFA falls within two zoning areas: Nature and Green Park.

MP Bucamper commended Minister Doran for re-acquiring part of the property and hopes that, if not all, a substantial part of it will be used for agriculture.
VV Balakrishna By

Express News Service

HYDERABAD: Hardening his stand against Andhra Pradesh on sharing of river waters, Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao on Thursday said he is ready to fight even with God to protect the interests of Telanganas farmers and the agricultural sector.

During a review meeting with officials at Pragathi Bhavan, KCR decided on the strategy to be adopted for the Apex Council meeting scheduled for October 6, to drive a hard bargain with AP. Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat will convene the Apex Council meeting through video-conference.

I am ready to fight even with God, the Chief Minister, who has decided to build a watertight argument against APs claims on the sharing of Krishna and Godavari river waters, said. He also wants to expose the Centres passive attitude towards resolving the issues between the sibling States.

KCR recalled that the Telangana Statehood movement primarily focused on the rightful share of river waters. There is a festive atmosphere in Telanganas farming sector now. The State stood first in agricultural production after it was carved out of Andhra Pradesh. Its farmers have become a role model for the country and the State has turned into a rice bowl. We are using the rivers waters to make barren land fertile. We will use every drop of our rightful share in the Krishna and Godavari. The arguments to be presented in the Apex Council meeting will focus on our rights, he asserted.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister directed the officials to prepare effective arguments to be presented at the Apex Council meeting. Irrigation Principal Secretary Rajat Kumar, State Planning Board Vice-Chairman B Vinod Kumar, Chief Advisor to Government Rajiv Sharma, Irrigation Advisor SK Joshi, OSD to CM Sridhar Rao Deshpande, and Engineers-in-Chief C Muralidhar Rao, B Hari Ram and B Nagender Rao, among other officials, attended the meeting.
On Tuesday, 15 September 2020, ECOWAS leaders hurriedly arraigned a meeting at Peduase in Ghana. At that meeting, ECOWAS leaders gave the Malian current military leaders one week to form a transitioning government. The ultimatum stipulated that the President and Prime Minister of the transitional government must be civilians and the nominations of these two key personalities must be done immediately.

The ECOWAS leaders also decided that the transition period would be 18 months maximum, with effect from the day of the meeting. Thus, the new Malian leaders were ordered by ECOWAS leaders to hand over power to a civilian transitioning government or face sanctions. Sanctions including the closure of all land and air borders, freezing of all financial transactions, and freezing of economic and trade flows between ECOWAS member states and Mali were immediately imposed on Mali.

Ten days later, on Friday, 25 September 2020, a transitional government was formed with former Defense Minister and retired Col. Maj. Bah NDaw as the new transitional president while Col. Assimi Goita, head of the junta that staged the coup, was installed as Malis new vice president. Then on Sunday, 27 September 2020, the former minister of foreign affairs, Moctar Ouane, was appointed the prime minister. The three government heads are to lead the transitional government to an election in 18 months.

On the surface, this seems a positive achievement by the leaders of West African states but underneath that, there is a ploy by current West African leaders to stay in power forever. Remember that ECOWAS boasts of some presidents who came to power either through military coups or are refusing to leave power after serving their terms in office. Such presidents want to abolish coups in the region so that they can hang on to power forever. They dont want to leave office through the ballot.

Most of the presidents of the fifteen states that form ECOWAS were in attendance but I will focus on the records of just a few of them. By the time you read through this piece, you will know that the presidents of ECOWAS member states do not want coups because some of them have decided to overstay in power illegally and sadly the others look on approvingly.

Lets consider the records of some of the leaders discouraging military coups, and threatened Malis new military leaders. Lets start with President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbe of the Republic of Togo who has been the president since 2005  a whole 15 years.

His father Gnassingbe Eyadema came to power through a military coup in 1967 and stayed in power until he died in 2005. Thus, he ruled for 38 years. According to the Togolese Constitution, when a President dies, the President of the National Assembly should become acting President until an election is conducted. At the time of Eyadema's death, National Assembly President Fambare Ouattara Natchaba was out of the country, and Faure Gnassingbe was hurriedly sworn in by the military as acting President.

It is an open secret that the military sent a message to Natchaba not to come back to Togo. In fact, the African Union denounced Faure's assumption of power as a military coup. The Gnassingbes  Eyadema and his son Faure - forced a constitution that allows an unlimited presidential term on Togolese, and any Togolese who questioned that constitution is dealt with brutally. Like his father, only death or a military coup can remove Faure from power. It is therefore obvious why proscribing military coups in West Africa is important for Faure.

Next, lets consider the record of President Conde of Guinea. The constitution of Guinea allows a maximum of two terms. The end of President Condes two terms as president is around the corner. In order to hold on to power illegally, the 82-year old president amended the nations constitution through a shady referendum.

According to him and his ruling party, since the country is guided by a new constitution, the two terms served by Conde are wiped out. His party has nominated him as its presidential candidate for the next election. This illegal imposition of Conde on Guinea has led to protests, and several people have been killed. As far as Conde is concerned, like Faure of Togo, only death or a military coup can remove him from power. Therefore, it is not surprising that he is at the forefront of discouraging military coups in West Africa.

A dictator in the making in the West African region is President Alassane Ouattara of the Ivory Coast. There is chaos brewing in the Ivory Coast because the sitting President Alassane Ouattara, who has already served two terms allowed by the constitution, is insisting that he would seek re-election in October 2020. Ironically, the Ivory Coast was thrown into a brief civil war when Ouattaras predecessor refused to relinquish the presidency for Ouattara to be sworn in as the newly elected president.

That war claimed the lives of 3,000 Ivoirians. Now, 78-year-old Ouattaras time as president is up, and he wants to hang onto power illegally. The 3,000 Ivoirians who died eight years ago to ensure democracy in their country died in vain.

As expected, President Alassane Ouattaras bid for a third term in office has been rife with controversy. Opponents and legal experts point out that the Ivorian constitution limits the presidency to two terms. However, Ouattarra maintains that because the constitution was reformed in 2016, the term count should be re-set to zero. Like Faure and Conde, only death or a military coup may remove Ouattara from power.

So far, we have not heard any condemnation from other West African leaders, and certainly, they have not imposed any sanctions to compel Ouattara to do the right thing. We should not be surprised if the Ivorian military organizes a coup detat to remove Ouattara. Should that happen, judging by the past, we should not be surprised if West African leaders impose sanctions on Ivoirians and the coup plotters.

Another country that ECOWAS has failed is Guinea Bissau. On 29 December 2019, the National Commission of Elections (the Electoral Commission) declared Umaro Sissoco Embalo as the winner of the elections. Mr. Domingos Simoes Pereira (known as DSP) challenged the results at the Supreme Court. At the end of February 2020, after a tour of several African countries where he has a wellspring of supporters, Embalo organised his inauguration ceremony to mark his succession of Jose Mario Vaz.

Immediately afterwards, he moved into the presidential palace, paying no heed to the fact that the Supreme Court had not made a final ruling regarding the appeal filed by DSP. Thus, although neither the Supreme Court of Guinea-Bissau nor the parliament gave its approval for the official swearing-in ceremony, Sissoco Embalo organized an alternative swearing-in ceremony in a hotel in Bissau to announce himself as the legal president of Guinea-Bissau. Several politicians in Guinea-Bissau, including prime minister Aristides Gomes, have accused Sissoco Embalo of arranging a Coup d'etat. Despite this controversial move, on April 22, 2020, ECOWAS recognized Umaro Sissoco Embalo as the president of Guinea Bissau.

It should be noted that the Supreme Court asked for a recount but the National Commission of Elections didnt comply. ECOWAS published a statement that In the face of the persistence of this blockage and after an in-depth analysis of the countrys political situation, the ECOWAS heads of state and government decided to recognise the victory of Mr. Umaro Sissoco Embalo. Yes, ECOWAS declared a winner despite the fact that the case was at the Supreme Court. Obviously, this is courting trouble in Guinea Bissau.

There is a saying that when persuasion fails, force must be applied. I personally do not encourage coups but it appears under certain circumstances, for example when a president refuses to leave office after their term and where Parliament, the [Supreme] Court and civil society are either unwilling or unable to act in the public interest, then coups to remove them should be supported. In such a case, military intervention in West Africa could be equated to what John Lewis called good trouble.

There would not be military coups in the West African region if our leaders respect the democratic rights of the people. Anything short of that is courting trouble in the region. If ECOWAS wants to be respected, it should clean its house, it should insist on democracy in its member states. If ECOWAS wants to maintain its credibility then it should ensure that the leaders dont impose themselves on the population.

Kwaku Obosu-Mensah

[email protected]
BOSTON, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The Brattle Group announces today that it has welcomed four lateral hires in three Brattle offices across North America. These experts bring specialized skills in several key practices, including Antitrust/Competiton; Market Manipulation; Bankruptcy & Restructuring; Tax Controversy & Transfer Pricing; Credit, Derivatives & Structured Products; and Securities Class Actions.

"Rosa, David, Albert, and Mame are terrific additions to our global litigation and finance offerings. While they each have unique focuses, they all bring a deep understanding of the complex business and regulatory landscape that our clients are navigating, as well as the critical economics, financial, and analytical skills needed to address related disputes," said Brattle President David Sunding. "We're pleased to continue building for the future of the firm by adding this outstanding talent, and look forward to many years of shared successes."

Dr. Rosa M. Abrantes-Metz has joined the Antitrust/Competition practice as a Principal in the New York office. Dr. Abrantes-Metz is an expert in economic matters related to collusion, market manipulation and fraud, and multisided platforms, as well as regulation, financial and commodities markets, and valuation. She pioneered the development and application of empirical screens to detect potential collusion, manipulation, and fraud, including in the uncovering of LIBOR rigging and other financial benchmarks. Dr. Abrantes-Metz has provided testimony on behalf of both governmental agencies and private institutions in many areas. She has also published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, trade publications, handbooks, and mainstream media outlets such as The Wall Street Journal, The Financial Times, and Bloomberg. Prior to joining Brattle, she was a Managing Director at an international economics consulting firm.

David Plastino has joined our Tax Controversy & Transfer Pricing, and Bankruptcy & Restructuring practices as a Principal in the Boston office. An expert in financial economics with over 20 years of experience in finance and consulting, Mr. Plastino leads engagements related to bankruptcy, tax controversy, complex litigation, and corporate mergers and acquisitions. He has extensive experience analyzing, valuing, and assessing the credit quality of companies, including firms charged with financial fraud and those which are undergoing (or have undergone) leveraged buyouts and recapitalizations. In addition, Mr. Plastino is a lecturer in finance at the Boston University Questrom School of Business, is a certified public accountant, and is Accredited in Business Valuation by the AICPA. Prior to joining Brattle, he was employed by a Big Four accounting firm where he was recently promoted to Partner.

Dr. Albert Metz has joined the Credit, Derivatives & Structured Products practice as a Senior Consultant in the New York office. A securities and finance expert, he has deep experience in credit analysis, financial modeling, and asset pricing. In the institutional and consumer credit space, he specializes in risk management, model design and estimation, and credit research. During his 15 years at Moody's Investment Service, Dr. Metz vetted credit models in many market segments, including the public sector and banking, and also developed patented models of corporate default and rating transition. His experience spans numerous industries, with a focus on transaction platforms, insurance, heathcare, telecom, real estate, and financial institutions. Prior to joining Brattle, he was a Managing Director at an international economics consulting firm.

Mame Maloney has joined the Antitrust/Competition and Securities Class Actions practices as a Senior Associate in the Chicago office. She specializes in empirical analyses related to market manipulation, antitrust, and securities litigation. In antitrust and market manipulation engagements, Ms. Maloney's expertise is focused on analyzing large (often multi-terabyte) datasets and developing applied econometric models. In securities litigation, she has analyzed class certification, loss causation, and damages related to securities class actions. Prior to joining Brattle, Ms. Maloney was a Director at an international economics consulting firm, and she previously worked as a Senior Consultant at an economics firm in Chicago.

ABOUT BRATTLE

The Brattle Group answers complex economic, finance, and regulatory questions for corporations, law firms, and governments around the world. We are distinguished by the clarity of our insights and the credibility of our experts, which include leading international academics and industry specialists. Brattle has over 350 talented professionals across three continents. For more information, please visit brattle.com.

SOURCE The Brattle Group
President Donald Trump again on Wednesday would not denounce white supremacist groups. ((REUTERS))

President Donald Trump was called racist by Democratic nominee Joe Biden during the first presidential debate, as the Republican candidate repeatedly used racist tropes to defend his supporters and engage in personal attacks.

During Tuesdays debate, which was the first of the three scheduled before 3 Novembers election, Mr Trump repeatedly interrupted and spoke over Mr Biden, as he launched attacks on the former vice president and other Democratic officials.

During a discussion about racial sensitivity training, Mr Biden called the president racist over his decision to ban the practice for federal contractors earlier in the year.

Mr Biden, who has undertaken the training, claimed: This is a president who has used everything as a dog whistle to try to generate racist hatred, racist division.

Mr Biden added later on in the debate, while the candidates clashed over Black Lives Matter protests: Hes the racist.

However, there were other moments during the debate where the president used racist tropes - while talking about the coronavirus pandemic, white supremacists and senator Elizabeth Warren.

The president refused to condemn white supremacist groups

On Tuesday, the president refused to condemn the violence of far-right and white supremacist groups during Black Lives Matter protests this summer, when moderator Chris Wallace, of Fox News, repeatedly asked him to.

Mr Trump initially tried to avoid the question by asking Mr Wallace for a specific group that he wanted him to condemn, but eventually chose to address the far-right, white supremacist group, the Proud Boys.

He said: Proud Boys, stand back and stand by! But Ill tell you what, somebodys got to do something about antifa and the left.

In reaction to the presidents comments, a key Proud Boys organiser wrote on the free speech social network, Parler: Standing by sir.

Following the debate, experts warned that Mr Trumps comment could encourage violence from extremist groups.

Story continues

Kathleen Belew, a historian of American white power movements, tweeted: A green light like stand back and standby is catastrophic.

It's astonishing that, when asked a simple question, will you condemn white supremacists, @POTUS responded - "The Proud Boys should stand back and stand by." Trying to determine if this was an answer or an admission. @POTUS owes America an apology or an explanation. Now. https://t.co/9tgufXom9K  Jonathan Greenblatt (@JGreenblattADL) September 30, 2020

Jonathan Greenblatt, the CEO of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), also tweeted his concern, and said that the president owes America an apology or an explanation. Now, for his comments.

President Trump called senator Elizabeth Warren Pocahontas

During the debate, Mr Trump questioned whether Mr Biden would have won the Democratic nomination if senator Elizabeth Warren had not dropped out of the race, and called her Pocahontas while doing so.

He said: If Pocahontas would have left [the race] two days earlier, you would've lost every primary on Super Tuesday, in reference to the senators previous claims that she has Native American heritage.

Pocahontas was a Native American woman, who belonged to the Pamunkey tribe. She was born in 1596 and died in 1617.

In 2018, president Trump claimed that Ms Warren was lying about her Cherokee heritage for political gain, and in response the senator took a DNA test, which showed that she was between 1/64th and 1/1028th Native American. She subsequently apologised for her previous claims.

However, Mr Trump has continued to refer to Ms Warren as Pocahontas, and although it was not commented on during the debate, the president using the term has caused upset to Native American people in the US.

In 2019, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), which describes itself as the oldest and largest indigenous rights organisation in the US, said the presidents actions were part of a long tradition of insults endured by Native Americans.

For centuries Native people have endured such slurs  from R*dskins to Injuns to savages  that the forces of racism and intolerance deploy to dehumanise our people, mock our cultures, and interfere with our inherent right to control our own lands and destinies, said NCAI CEO Kevin Allis.

He added: Not only does it disrespect Pocahontas legacy and life, it likens her name to a slur.

The president once again called coronavirus the China plague

During the debate, the president once again referred to the coronavirus pandemic as the China plague, while defending his administrations response to tackling the virus.

He said: We built the greatest economy in history, we closed it down because of the China plague.

According to a tracking project hosted by Johns Hopkins University, in the US as a whole, some 7.1 million people have tested positive for coronavirus, while the death toll has reached at least 206,351.

Mr Trump, alongside other Republicans, has repeatedly referred to Covid-19 as the China virus, or Wuhan flu, and other slurs during the pandemic, which have been criticised for blaming the virus on a single country and group of people.

Additionally, there are concerns that the phrase could lead to a rise of harassment and mistreatment of Asian Americans, according to NBC News.

Speaking at a virtual invitation-only fundraiser for Joe Bidens presidential campaign last month, the former US president Barack Obama criticised Mr Trumps use of the phrase, according to The Hill.

I dont want a country in which the president of the United States is actively trying to promote anti-Asian sentiment and thinks its funny, Mr Obama reportedly said.

I dont want that. That still shocks and p***es me off, he added.

Earlier in the year, the World Health Organisation (WHO) director general, Tedros Adhanom, said the name specifically does not refer to a geographical location, an animal, an individual or group of people, and which is also pronounceable and related to the disease, according to Forbes.

He reasoned that having a name matters to prevent the use of other names that can be inaccurate or stigmatizing.

The second presidential debate is scheduled to take place on 15 October in Miami with C-SPAN's Steve Scully moderating.

Read more

This is a colossal waste of time': Pundits and Biden supporters call for him to drop out of remaining debates

Painful to watch: Body language expert explains the first Trump-Biden debate

Biden, Trump press contrasts in Midwest after debate chaos

The Proud Boys heard Trump last night. Their reaction tells you everything you need to know
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 21:47:14|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- China is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as one of the 10 fast-track countries in women's and children's health, President Xi Jinping said Thursday at a high-level meeting on the 25th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women. Enditem
ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP)  President Donald Trump has said he will issue a permit for a rail line connecting Alaska and Canada, he said.

Trump sent a tweet last Friday citing the influence of two members of Alaskas congressional delegation on his decision, The Anchorage Daily News reported.

I will be issuing a Presidential Permit for the A2A Cross-Border Rail between Alaska & Canada. Congratulations to the people of Alaska & Canada, Trump said in the tweet.

Trump credited what he called a strong recommendation by U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan and U.S. Rep. Don Young, both Republican...
A federal appeals court has ruled that a North Carolina employee who was attacked and fired after he complained about his supervisors intoxication on the job is entitled to more than $1 million in damages and legal costs.

Construction worker Justin Driskell brought claims for retaliatory termination in violation of the states Retaliatory Employment Discrimination Act (REDA) and wrongful discharge in violation of North Carolina common law. He alleged there were two reasons Summit fired him: because of his complaints about his supervisors drinking and a fight they had, and because his employer believed that he would file a workers compensation claim due to his injuries from the fight his boss started.

A Western North Carolina district jury sided with Driskill but the court then required him to choose between either $250,000 in punitive damages (reduced from the jury award of $681,000) or $441,600 for attorneys fees but not get both because of a state law against duplicative rewards. It also awarded him $65,000 in compensation for lost wages.

The district court reasoned that North Carolina law prevents duplicative remedies, and the law applied because the awards of punitive damages and attorneys fees were based on the same conduct, namely, Summits retaliatory firing. Driskell chose to forgo punitive damages, collecting $195,000 in trebled compensatory damages and $441,600 in attorneys fees.

Both parties appealed.

The 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond, Virginia rejected Summits arguments for judgment and its claims that it did not really fire Driskill but if it did, it had a legitimate busines reason to do so. The court found that the evidence showed that not only did Summit violate REDA and common law in its treatment of Driskill but also it had acted with malice toward its former employee. Discovery also yielded evidence that Summit had shown hostility toward other workplace safety reports and workers compensation claims.

The appeals court also partially reversed the lower court, ruling that Driskill was entitled to untrebled lost wages of $65,000 plus both the jurys original award for $681,000 in punitive damages on the wrongful-discharge claim and $441,600 in attorneys fees on the REDA claim. The appeals court ruled that the two awards serve different interests and arent based on the same conduct.

Under North Carolinas law, a plaintiff may not recover inconsistent remedies or remedies that would provide double redress for a single wrong. The appeals court said punitive damages and attorneys fees are not inconsistent remedies and that whether they are duplicative turns on whether they serve different interests and are not based on the same conduct.

The court said that without question, the two awards serve wholly different interests, maintaining that punitive damages are designed to punish willful conduct and to deter others from committing similar acts, while an award of attorneys fees is intended to address costs that arise in the course of the litigation of a particular case.

Further, the ruling continued, the two awards are not based on the same conduct. To recover punitive damages, Driskell had to prove that Summits conduct involved fraud, malice, or willful or wanton conduct. In contrast, REDA gives the trial court discretion to award fees and costs to a prevailing plaintiffirrespective of the defendants conductprovided the plaintiff can show that such fees and costs are reasonable.

Facts of the Case

According to the facts as cited by the court, on his job at Summit, Driskill reported to Daniel Rhyner. In June and July 2015, Driskell noticed that Rhyner frequently drank alcohol at lunch and returned to work intoxicated, occasionally acting belligerently. One day, Rhyner drunkenly brandished a handgun at the job site. Summits policies prohibit visiting a job site after drinking or while carrying a gun.

Driskell reported Rhyners drinking to senior employees several times. During his first week at a project in Charlotte, he complained that it was a safety issue. The complaint was relayed to Marc Padgett, Summits president and chief executive officer. Driskells father, who was also an employee, also relayed his sons complaints to Padgetts wife, Nicole Padgett, who was Summits chief administrative officer. The Padgetts, however, suspected that the father and son Driskells were scheming to file a bogus lawsuit against Summit.

One night, Driskell ran into Rhyner, who was drunk, in the parking lot of a hotel where many employees were staying. They argued about a workplace safety issue, at which point Rhyner angrily told Driskell to pack his things and leave the job site.

Later that night, Driskell spoke with the CEO on the phone and complained again about Rhyners drinking on the job. The CEO told Driskell to disregard what Rhyner had said about leaving the job site and that he would send someone to Charlotte to investigate Driskells complaints. After the call, Rhyner apologized to Driskell.

On July 18, the employee sent to investigate asked a few employees whether they had seen Rhyner drink at the job site, which none of them had. He didnt test Rhyner for drugs or alcohol, check his company credit card receipts (which reflected purchases of alcohol), or ask anyone if they had seen Rhyner drink at lunch, as Driskell had alleged. The investigator then met with Driskell and told him to stop telling people what was going on at the job site, and that whatever happened at the job site should stay there.

A day later, Driskell again saw Rhyner, who appeared drunk, in the hotel parking lot. At Rhyners insistence, the two had a beer together. Rhyner then said that he was removing some employees from the team that Driskell supervised, and that Driskells team needed to increase its production even though it would have fewer members. Driskell said that pushing his team any harder would create safety issues. The two argued about this and cursed each other. According to Driskell and an eyewitness, Driskell then turned toward his truck to leave. Rhyner followed him and punched him in the face repeatedly. Driskell didnt throw a punch, but wrestled with Rhyner, threw him over his head, and put him in a headlock. Neither party was hurt seriously, although Rhyner had to wear a neck brace for two weeks. During the fight, Rhyner told Driskell, Youre fired.

Later, Driskell spoke to the CEO on the phone. The CEO told Driskell that he wasnt fired and that Rhyner lacked the authority to fire him. Driskell replied that he would quit if Rhyner remained at Summit. The owner didnt respond to that threat. Soon thereafter, Driskell was asked by a senior employee to return his work tools. Driskell expressed confusion about why he had to do that, as he planned to continue working at Summit, but he ultimately complied.

That same night, Driskell filed a criminal complaint against Rhynereven though the CEO had discouraged him from doing sowhich led the police to charge Rhyner with assault. Driskell also visited the emergency room for medical treatment. The doctor said that he could return to work three days later.

The next morning, the chief administrative officer emailed her husband (the CEO) and several other employees, claiming the Driskells were plotting a bogus lawsuit with the intent to screw the company out of $5 million.

Driskell called and texted the company repeatedly, seeking clarity on where he should report to work. He got no answer. The CEO told the court they did not respond because they were waiting for instructions for the companys attorney. Within days, the senior employees and CEO discussed designating someone to fire Driskill and collect his company phone and iPad devices. Notwithstanding this conversation, no Summit employee (except for Rhyner back after the fight) ever told Driskell that he was fired. However, Driskells company-issued phone and iPad were deactivated.

At trial, Driskill testified that he knew at that point that [he] had been terminated and that it was not going to be reversed. Nevertheless, he texted his supervisor later that evening: Still havent heard any word as to what you need me to do. Please give me a call. Nobody never responded.

Driskell turned in his company-issued devices. He explained at trial that he did so because he knew . . . that [he] had been fired and that if [he] kept company property that [he] could be prosecuted for theft.

About a month later, Driskell applied for a new job at another company. On the application, he checked a box indicating that he had never been fired from a job. At trial, Driskell explained that this was a lie to improve his chances of getting the new job.

In January 2016, Driskell filed a complaint with the North Carolina Department of Labor. He alleged that he was fired because of his complaints about Rhyner and his refusal (for safety reasons) to increase his teams production, and because he became a threat, risk or liability to the company after Rhyner attacked him. After the Labor Department declined to investigate his complaint, Driskell asked for and received a right-to-sue letter and Driskell then filed this suit.

The case is Justin Driskill v. Summit Contracting.

Topics North Carolina Construction
Customers Benefit from Consistent, High-Quality Content Regardless of Author

SDL (LSE: SDL), the intelligent language and content company, announces a partnership with Congree Language Technologies GmbH, experts in authoring assistance tools and content optimization, to provide linguistic guidance, terminology checks and content intelligence to authors and content teams. The combination of SDL Tridion and Congree's focus on content authoring assistance is expected to save customers between 20-80% of their translation costs.

"You only get one chance to impress a customer," said Thomas Labarthe, Group Revenue Officer, SDL. "Together with Congree we're offering a new way for brands to create highly impactful content, consistently, regardless of who authors it."

Customers can now access three new features within SDL Tridion:

Rule-Based Language Checks: Apart from the spelling, grammar, and terminology, the rule-based Language Check also validates the style of authored content. Predefined rule sets cover most application cases, and additional company-specific rules can be added as needed.

Authoring Memory: The Authoring Memory serves as a sentence repository, and displays all text segments that are similar to the authored text and were approved in the past. New sentences are included in the Authoring Memory after they are checked and approved. Congree Data Grooming can help to maintain and improve the quality of Authoring Memory.

Terminology Management: A connection to a terminology component enables access to a wide range of information on terminology hits. The terminology component in Congree delivers definitions and usage information on specialized terms including preferred terms, admitted terms, and deprecated terms.

"Like no other company within our market, SDL offers a broadness of services and solutions all around language technology, combined with customers in a very wide range of different verticals," says Congree CEO Stefan Kreckwitz. "With the professional and experienced international SDL team and the Congree Authoring Server, we are very enthusiastic about the opportunities this strategic partnership will offer to customers."

Congree helps writers create great, consistent and compelling content by sharing writing guidance and feedback according to their company's unique style, branding and terminology guidelines. The Congree Authoring Server can now be accessed through SDL Tridion giving customers the ability to create, manage and deliver consistent, high-quality content, across all languages, for any digital channel.

"A big trend we're seeing at the moment is that companies are looking for ways to standardize and optimize their language and content creation. It's largely driven by the reality that large volumes of content are created by dozens of different authors and stakeholders within a company," said Val Swisher, CEO of Content Rules. "We're excited to see both SDL and Congree come together in a way that will help brands ensure that their language and brand remains consistent, no matter who creates it."

SDL Tridion offers organizations a knowledge hub and 'single source of truth' across all their content, providing the foundation for delivering next-generation digital experiences, intranets, self-service and support services. It enables businesses to run more efficiently, but also gain insights into consumption habits, consumer behavior, and other patterns that can identify and capitalize on to achieve higher revenues.

About Congree

Congree Language Technologies GmbH offers a software platform for content optimization. Congree help writers create great, consistent and compelling content. Linguistic intelligence provides writing guidance and feedback according to company unique style, branding and terminology guidelines. In addition, the Authoring Memory alerts writers to opportunities to reuse existing content instead of creating new, similar content. This saves time for your writers and can significantly reduce your translation costs. Congree seamlessly integrates and works within the most popular editors on the market, so there's no need for writers to switch to a new environment. For more information, visit: www.congree.com.

About SDL

SDL (LSE: SDL) is the intelligent language and content company. Our purpose is to enable global understanding, allowing organizations to communicate with their audiences worldwide, whatever the language, channel or touchpoint. We work with over 4,500 enterprise customers including 90 of the world's top brands and the majority of the largest companies in our target sectors. We help our customers overcome their content challenges of volume, velocity, quality, fragmentation, compliance and understanding through our unique combination of language services, language technologies and content technologies.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201001005079/en/

Contacts:

SDL

Denis Davies

Corporate Communications

ddavies@sdl.com

+44 1628 410105
Its not that were overstressed right now, but our hospitals are certainly busy and this puts us in an especially difficult position as we move into cold and flu season, he said. We need to get this virus under control and the way we can do it is by once again taking this virus seriously.

The trend could also strain supplies of personal protective equipment, although Bullock said the state has stockpiled roughly 90 days of personal protective equipment and ordered more.

Dr. Greg Holzman, state medical officer, said the Benefis Health System Hospital in Great Falls is at 115% capacity, with 37 people in the hospital diagnosed with COVID-19, seven of them in intensive care.

Holzman said hospital capacity is "very concerning" given the upcoming flu season, which typically leads to further strain on local hospitals.

Dr. Shelley Harkins, chief medical officer at St. Peters Health in Helena, said the hospital was treating four COVID-19 patients Wednesday. That is a bump in patient numbers, but most concerning are upticks in cases in Lewis and Clark and neighboring counties as hospitalizations typically come in the days and weeks following reported cases.
The Afghan government and the Taliban will need to find compromises on a plethora of contentious issues to reach a peace settlement -- from civil liberties and womens rights to the country's name and flag.

The most crucial issue facing the warring sides is the makeup of Afghanistans future political system, which is currently an Islamic republic that is modeled on Western-style democracy.

An extremist Islamist group, the Taliban is seeking to transform the Afghan state into a theocracy. The militants see the current system as the product of a U.S. occupation.

The internationally recognized government in Kabul is seeking to preserve as much of the current constitutional order as possible, including key democratic tenets like womens rights, free speech, and competitive elections.

The Taliban has admitted it cannot revive its Islamic Emirate, the official name of the brutal regime that ruled from 1996 to 2001. An international pariah that was targeted by U.S. sanctions and air strikes, the regime committed gross human rights abuses and persecuted women and religious minorities.

Fragile and deeply divided, the Afghan government has come to the peace negotiations that started on September 12 in the Gulf state of Qatar in relative weakness.

With roughly half of the country controlled or contested by the Taliban, Kabul lacks the military advantage to drive a hard bargain, especially with U.S. forces withdrawing, experts say.

As a result, they say, the Afghan government will likely have to accept significant constitutional changes and alterations to the current political system to achieve peace.

The Taliban knows that they cannot go back to their old emirate and will need to compromise because of their need for international recognition, says Kamran Bokhari, a director at the Center for Global Policy, a Washington-based think tank. We could see a hybrid between their medieval Sunni ideal and a modern Western-style state.

Bokhari says the likely outcome, if a peace deal is reached and the Taliban abide by it, is a Sunni Afghan version of the Islamic Republic of Iran -- a republican system with a heavy theocratic layer.

A political settlement between the opposing Afghan sides is a key component of a landmark U.S.-Taliban signed in February that is aimed at ending the 19-year war.

Under that deal, foreign forces will leave Afghanistan by May 2021 in exchange for counterterrorism guarantees from the Taliban, which agreed to negotiate a permanent cease-fire and a power-sharing formula with the Afghan government.

Truly Islamic

Rahmatullah Amiri, a Kabul-based political analyst, says recent remarks by U.S. officials and Taliban leaders appeared to show that regime change, via the negotiations, was under way.

Both sides will not use that term because of its sensitivity, says Amiri. But in reality, the Talibans main goal is regime change, and that is what is being discussed.

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, during the opening ceremony of the peace talks in Qatar on September 12, told the Afghan sides that the choice of your political system is yours to make.

He added that the size and scope of future U.S. financial assistance to the country, which relies heavily on international funding, would depend on that choice.

Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the Talibans political chief and deputy leader, told the ceremony that Afghanistan should "have an Islamic system in which all tribes and ethnicities of the country find themselves without any discrimination and live their lives in love and brotherhood."

Abdul Hakim Ishaqzai, the head of the Talibans negotiating team, said the group was seeking to establish a "truly Islamic" system.

Abdullah Abdullah, the head of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation, a body that oversees the peace talks with the Taliban, made his own reference to the current political system that is supported by millions of men and women from a diversity of cultural, social, and ethnic backgrounds in our homeland.

Supreme Role Of Islam

There is common ground in the legal and governance systems of the Afghan government and the Taliban.

Both the Talibans political vision and the Afghan political system rely heavily on the centralization of power and the supreme role of Islam.

Afghanistans 2004 constitution prescribes that "no law can be contrary to the beliefs and provisions of the sacred religion of Islam" and sometimes appears contradictory with more liberal and democratic elements within it.

Power resides in a heavily centralized government.

According to the Talibans views on governance, power should be centralized in an "Amir ul-Momineen," or leader of the faithful. This supreme leader is the head of state and has ultimate authority.

The Taliban, too, regards Sharia as the supreme law.

But the warring parties have staunchly different interpretations of Sharia law and the role of Islam.

The Taliban is a group of clerics, says Amiri. In any outcome, the implementation of their version of Islamic law is paramount for them.

The Iran Model

Experts say many new political systems are built on modifying existing models.

Bokhari says Irans Islamic republic, despite being predominately Shiite, could be used as a template in Afghanistan, a Sunni-majority country.

Under Iran's Islamic system of government, known as "velayat-e faqih," a top cleric serves as supreme leader and has the final authority on all matters of state and religion.

The system is designed to balance two forms of governance: theocracy and democracy. The supreme leader, the paramount expert in religious law, supervises the office of the president, who represents the people's will.

Bokhari says Afghanistans future political system is likely to have a complex web of institutions -- like the system in Iran -- that will be dominated by the Taliban at the expense of its opponents.

The Taliban could allow the presidency to remain in the hands of their opponents as long as it has oversight through a powerful cleric, much like Irans supreme leader, says Bokhari.

The Taliban will face stiff resistance in the legislative branch because they do not have a political party or experience in elections, experts say. But the group could look to establish a clerical body like Irans powerful Guardians Council, which supervises elections and vets legislation passed by parliament for compliance with Islamic laws.

Experts say the Taliban is likely to control the judiciary, which is already a stronghold of like-minded ultraconservative clerics.

The security sector, which is dominated by the Afghan National Army, the Afghan National Police, and the National Directorate of Security, the countrys main intelligence agency, is likely to be a major source of dispute.

Bokhari says the Taliban will look to break that monopoly through a Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) program as a framework for demobilizing or integrating fighters into the army or police.

Another option, he says, is for the Taliban to maintain a militia that is parallel to the state security forces like Lebanons Iranian-backed Hizballah, a powerful armed militia that plays a prominent role in politics.

Revolutionary Model

Experts say there are also reasons why the Talibans ideal "Islamic system" might not be based on or closely resemble Iran's.

It would be difficult for the Taliban as a movement, even among their own people and sympathizers, to put forward a model that was recognizably similar to the world's most prominent Shia Islamic state, says Andrew Watkins, a senior analyst for Afghanistan at the International Crisis Group (ICG).

The Iranian state is also based on a revolutionary model that seeks to export its 1979 Islamic Revolution, which goes against the Talibans insistence that its aims are solely national.

Shiite-majority Iran and the Taliban, a fundamentalist Sunni group, were former foes. But in recent years, the sides have forged closer ties.

External support has been key to the Talibans insurgency.

Pakistan, the Talibans main sponsor, has long been accused of sheltering and aiding the militants. U.S. officials have accused Iran of providing financial, political, training, and material support to the Taliban. Washington has also accused Russia of arming the Taliban, which Moscow denies.

The Taliban want to be seen as independent and not influenced by neighboring states, says Watkins. This will also likely steer it away from similarities with Iran's system.

The Saudi Template

Amiri says the Taliban appears to be most interested in replicating the system in Saudi Arabia, outside of it being a theocracy headed by a religious leader who rules for life and is chosen through "bayat," or an oath of allegiance.

The Sunni kingdom is governed by Sharia law, has no elected legislature, and has a Council of Ministers, headed by the king, that exercises both legislative and executive powers.

While the Taliban might be interested in a Saudi style of government, they have not been able to articulate this because of the recent reforms made in Saudi Arabia have become unpopular among the Taliban, says Amiri, referring to Riyadhs publicly stated effort to open up the ultraconservative kingdom.

Saudi Arabia was among only three countries that recognized the Talibans brutal regime in the '90s and is believed to have sway over some Taliban leaders.

The Kabul government is not going to be able to secure a peace settlement without consenting to significant changes to the current political system, says Watkins. Whether those changes are constitutional in nature, or if the Taliban prove to be more flexible on the constitutional framework and more insistent in other ways, remains to be seen.
01.10.2020 LISTEN

The outspoken mining engineer, mineral economist and former NPP-California, USA Deputy Secretary, living in Colorado, USA, Dr. Solomon Owusu has challenged Pesident Akufo-Addo to catalog with detailed explanations, project costs and project stages of the supposed 1,824 projects that his administration has undertaken in Ashanti Region for Ghanaians to authenticate their existence.

According to Solomon, the President Akufo-Addo disseminated politically smeared lies to the Asantehene when he visited the wise King at his Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.

Expressing his views on a diaspora radio station, Dr. Owusu admonished Ghanaians abroad, especially the Ashantis to ignore President Akufo Addos falsehood and demand the list of all the projects located in each constituency so that Ghanaians back home can cross-check the location and the progress of each project.

According to him, the president has disappointed the Asanteman, where the NPP party wins lots of its votes and he had no other option than to fabricate untruths to the Ashantis on projects because he had nothing to show in the region.

The outspoken former NPP executive disclosed that the president has even abandoned most of the projects initiated by the previous NDC government.

On Monday September 28, 2020, the President paid a courtesy call on Asantehene Otumfour Osei Tutu II, introduced himself as a presidential candidate and introduced all the forty-seven (47) NPP parliamentary candidates to the King.

Presenting his achievements to Otumfour, President Akufo Addo narrated that his government has undertaken 1,824 projects in Ashanti Region alone, including 606 water and sanitation projects, 604 education projects, 151 road projects, 92 health projects, one aviation project and one port project.

In all, the President mentioned 1,455 projects but couldnt state the other areas for the rest of the 369 projects. Criticizing the inconsistencies in the Presidents speech, Dr. Owusu said the difference in the figures between the total 1,824 projects against the actual 1,455 he enunciated raised a red flag, indicating that the President was speaking lies to the King and just concocting numbers with deceitful intent to convince Asanteman for votes. In his opinion, the President has scored less then 15% in infrastructure development in Ashanti Region as compared to Ex-President Mahama who built schools, roads, markets, hospitals, water reservoirs and airports among others.

After carefully listening to the President, the King wished Nana Akufo Addo well and reminded him that Asanteman will vote based on the good works of each candidate, hence the records of President Akufo Addo will determine his votes on the election day. Commenting on the Kings delivery, Dr. Owusu commended the proverbial and wise speech by Otumfour and inferred that the King restrained himself to avoid embarrassing the President for his abysmal performance but cautioned him to improve on his governance strategy to lessen the hardships Ghanaians are currently subjected to. For example, this government has nothing to show in Obuasi, Tarkwa, Dunkwa and all the other mining towns, except poverty, poor roads and poor living conditions.

The Ashanti Region is known to be the strongest region of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) but the Akufo Addo led government has poorly performed in the region than any of the past governments. Lots of the residents in this region are engaged in small-scale mining, illegal mining (galamsey), auto mechanic and auto electric businesses, vehicle spare parts business, small business and other businesses. Unfortunately, this government has collapsed the mining business and subjected residents in mining areas into unprecedented hardships. Also, this administration has collapsed the local banks, where the small business owners acquire loans.

In addition, the government is planning to ban the importation of salvage cars into the country, which will immensely affect the auto mechanic, auto electric and spare parts businesses in the Ghana, especially those in Suame-Magazine in Kumasi who voted massively for the then candidate Akufo Addo during the 2016 elections. Furthermore, the car dealership business in Ghana will collapse, if Ghanaians mistakenly vote for President Akufo Addo on December 7th. Expressing his regrets for supporting the President in the 2016 elections, Dr. Owusu said this government doesnt care about the welfare of the people but rather interested in selfish and greedy ventures, leading to the alarming rate of corrupt practices Ghanaians witness every day.

In his concluding remarks, the outspoken mining engineer advised Ghanaians to vote against President Akufo Addo for his disappointment to the nation. He continued that Ghanaians cannot withstand another 4-year term under President Akufo Addo with frustration, intimidation, unemployment, insecurity, lawlessness, corruption, collapse of businesses, weak economic management and unparalleled hardships. Finally, Dr. Owusu declared that the President and his Vice are liars and a vote for them is a vote for disaster for the country.
Hamilton County Mayor Jim Coppinger announced Wednesday that all businesses throughout Hamilton County can expand their operations as of today with the expectation that Hamilton County Businesses will continue to comply with the Tennessee Pledge for operating safely.

His office said, "While restrictions have been lifted, we still require businesses (which includes restaurants and bars) to comply with social distancing standards as defined in the Tennessee pledge which you can find here.

https://www.tn.gov/governor/ covid-19/economic-recovery. html

"The mask mandate remains in place and we expect all business to comply with the mask mandate."

The Hamilton County Health Department is ordering the removal of restrictions based on the authority delegated by Governor Bill Lee through Executive Order 63.

The Hamilton County Mask Mandate remains in place until Oct. 8.

County Mayor Jim Coppinger said he will conduct a press conference on Oct. 6 to discuss the mask mandate.

Guidelines for Executive Order 63 can be found later today on Hamilton County's website at www.HamiltonTN.gov or on the state of Tennessee's website at www.TN.gov.
Ontario is reaching a danger point in COVID-19 testing with a huge backlog, Health Minister Christine Elliott said Thursday, as the province recorded another 538 cases and Premier Doug Ford gave personal support workers a long-promised raise of up to $3 hourly.

The queue of samples awaiting lab processing topped 82,000, double the daily capacity and putting thousands of nasal swabs in jeopardy after people waited in line for hours to get tested.

The specimens are only good for three days and then they spoil and people have to be retested, so we understand how urgently this needs to be addressed, Elliott told a news conference Thursday.

We are looking to boost our lab capacity, she added. Weve reached out to our universities who are coming on board very shortly with significant lab capacity  so that we can process those tests in time.

Ford pleaded with Ontarians, saying, if you arent showing symptoms, please dont go get tested, and associate medical officer Dr. Barbara Yaffe said the backlog is slowing contact tracing for positive cases by public health departments.

Unfortunately, those contacts could already be incubating, could, in fact, be symptomatic, could have spread it already. Its very important that we reduce the turnaround time ... We are aiming for 24 to 48 hours max.

The raises for personal support workers, who earn about $20 hourly now, will expire at the end of March and fall short of the $4 hourly they earned in temporary pandemic pay that ended in mid-August.

The effort aimed at encouraging PSWs to return to the sector or not quit for safer jobs as COVID-19 cases continue rising will cost $461 million and come as 14 more nursing-home residents and six more staff tested positive for the highly contagious virus across Ontario, where 48 homes have outbreaks.

Ive always said they were overworked and underpaid, Ford said of PSWs, who help nursing-home residents get out of bed, groomed and dressed and ready for meals, among other tasks that bring them face-to-face many times daily. PSWs are among the eight workers who have died of COVID-19 to date in long-term care, along with 1,869 residents.

The raises will be $3 hourly for the 88,000 PSWs in long-term care and home and community care, $2 hourly for 12,300 PSWs in public hospitals where wages and benefits are higher, and $3 hourly for 47,000 direct care workers in children, community and social services.

This is a great start to what we hope is a permanent change, said Miranda Ferrier of the Ontario Personal Support Workers Association.

Ford said he will do everything I can to make the top-up permanent.

Opposition parties questioned why the move didnt come over the summer, with nursing homes still trying to recruit more staff needed to provide proper levels of care.

They are not ready for the second wave, said NDP Leader Andrea Horwath.

The 48 long-term-care outbreaks include the Fairview and Norwood nursing homes in Toronto, where a combined total of 55 residents and 16 staff have been infected. At Ottawas West End Villa, where 17 residents have died since late August, with 30 residents and 38 staff testing positive.

The new infections reported Thursday were down from 625 on Wednesday, when health officials warned an increasingly rapid spread of the virus due to lax pandemic precautions is propelling the province toward 1,000 new cases daily in early October, with the number of infections doubling every 10 to 12 days.

There were three new deaths for a total of 11 since Monday, according to the report from the Ministry of Health. Toronto had 229 new cases, Peel had 101, Ottawa had 66 and York Region had 43.

Hospitalizations, which have doubled in the last two weeks, increased by 12 to 162 with 36 in intensive care, and increase of one, and 17 of those patients on ventilators, unchanged from the previous day.

Provincial officials warned earlier this week that hospitals can only continue scheduled surgeries and other procedures as usual until the number of COVID-19 patients in intensive care units across the system reaches 150, at which point capacity will begin to erode; at 350 cases, they said, normal operations will become impossible.

There were 65 new cases in schools, bringing the total to 387 in the last 14 days. Another 25 schools reported students or staff with COVID-19 infections, raising that tally to 307 or just over six per cent of all schools in the province. Three schools have been temporarily closed because of outbreaks.
Iraqi students staged a demonstration on Thursday to mark the first anniversary of mass protests that erupted in 2019.

Students carrying Iraqi flags and anti-government banners marched toward Tahrir Square and the freedom monument in central Baghdad.

They demanded justice for the hundreds of protesters estimated to have been killed by security forces during last year's protests, and held up pictures of some of those who died.

They also called for an end to Iraq's sectarian political system, along with early elections.

Thursday's march passed off peacefully.

In October 2019, mass anti-government protests erupted in Baghdad and across Iraq's predominantly Shiite south as tens of thousands of angry Iraqi youth took to the streets to decry rampant government corruption, poor services, including electricity, and unemployment.

The leaderless, economically driven protests targeted Iraq's entire political class and called for the overhaul of the sectarian system established after the 2003 US-led invasion.

At least 700 people died under fire from Iraqi security forces who used live rounds and tear gas to disperse crowds.

This story has not been edited by www.republicworld.com and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.
Curator of social media group of death from Yugra gets 8 years for murder attempt

 flickr.com/knuton

10:49 01/10/2020

MOSCOW, October 1 (RAPSI)  Curator of a so-called social network group of death living in Russias Yugra has been sentenced to 8 years in high-security penal colony in a case over attempted murder of a schoolgirl, the Investigative Committees press service reports.

One more defendant Elena Sinelnikova has received a 6-year suspended sentence.

According to the investigation, between October and December 2016, Tolmachev and Sinelnikova through one of social networks came into contact with a minor schoolgirl. Step by step they suppressed the girls will, placed her mind under their control, gave orders, put in claims and induced to hurt herself. In their last task the defendants demanded that the girl committed actions which circumstances were fatal.

Due to the timely intervention of parents the tragedy was prevented. Later, the girl received psychological aid, the statement reads.




ALLIANCE, Ohio  Donald Trumps volcanic debate performance put the presidents sympathy for white supremacists in the campaign spotlight Wednesday, heightening a sense of menacing chaos in the campaign that threatens to undercut other Republicans up for reelection in a year that was already a challenge for the GOP.

By midday, the president distanced himself from his most inflammatory debate remark  a call to the Proud Boys, an extremist group to stand back and stand by  saying that he didnt know the organization.

I dont know who Proud Boys are. But whoever they are they have to stand down, let law enforcement do their work, Trump said. He also said he always denounced any form of white supremacy, despite failing to unambiguously do so Tuesday night.

Trumps debate performance unsettled his allies and gave his rival, Joe Biden, a springboard to return to the themes that propelled the former vice presidents bid  a restoration of the nations character that had been degraded by political coarseness and racial animus.

Last night I think was a wake-up call for all Americans, Biden said during a campaign event in Alliance, Ohio  one of seven stops in a train tour Wednesday through two key states, Ohio and Pennsylvania.

He blasted Trump for his dog whistle to white supremacy, particularly his words for the Proud Boys.

Biden issued his own message to the extremist group: Cease and desist.

Trump, speaking to reporters on the South Lawn of the White House on Wednesday afternoon, presented a generally upbeat review of the debate, saying he got tremendous reviews.

Few others enjoyed the helter-skelter nature of the debate, including the Commission on Presidential Debates, the nonpartisan nonprofit entity that has sponsored all general election presidential and vice presidential debates since 1988.

The commission, in a statement, acknowledged changes were needed to facilitate a more orderly discussion of the issues, and announced that the group plans to ensure that additional tools to maintain order are in place for the remaining debates. The organization did not specify what those changes would entail.

As Trumps comment dominated post-debate news coverage, Republicans expressed concern about how fallout from the chaotic debate and the way the campaign is shaping up could affect the partys candidates up and down the ballot.

It feels like 2018 all over again, said GOP pollster Neil Newhouse, referring to the midterm elections that delivered gigantic losses for the party and turned control of the House over to Democrats. That election was a referendum on Donald Trump, and this year feels exactly the same way. Republicans dont fare well in that kind of election environment.

Trump spokesman Hogan Gidley defended Trumps debate performance and insisted the president had actually condemned white supremacists.

He said sure three times, Gidley said on CNN, referring to his response to questions about whether he would condemn supremacists. The president does and he did call them out.

But outside of Trumps staff, even many of his staunch supporters struggled to make sense of his comments and spin them in a favorable light.

I think he misspoke, I think he should correct it, said Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, the only Black Republican senator. If he doesnt correct it, I guess he didnt misspeak.

Former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum, a Republican, said on CNN that the Democrats owe a lot to Chris Wallace, blaming the moderator for having asked the question that elicited Trumps Proud Boys comment.

He was asking the president to do something he knows the president doesnt like to do, which is, say something bad about people who support him.

The Trump campaign felt compelled to rehash in a video the times over the years that the president has condemned the Ku Klux Klan. Here Are 7 Examples Of President Trump Condemning The KKK, the campaigns Trump War Room account tweeted.

The controversy echoed the blowback over Trumps handling of white supremacist violence in Charlottesville, Virginia, three years ago, when he said there were very fine people on both sides. Biden said those comments spurred him to run for president, and now hes capitalizing on a sequel to fuel his campaign in the closing weeks.

Trumps aides have been hoping to reshape the final weeks of the campaign in terms Republicans think work to his advantage  as a choice between himself and Biden, whom he portrays as a tool of the Democratic Partys extreme left wing.

The reaction to Tuesday nights debate, however, appeared to lock in the current framework of the race _ a referendum on Trump, which has clearly favored the Democrats.

On network morning shows, a key source of information for swing voters who tend not to closely follow politics, Republicans had difficulty defending Trump.

On CBS' This Morning, for example, former Republican Party chair Reince Priebus tried to avoid commenting on Trumps remark about the Proud Boys, claiming he hadnt heard him say it.

Youll have to ask him, Priebus said when host Gayle King asked if Trump would condemn white supremacists Wednesday.

Even Brian Kilmeade, a Trump-friendly host on Fox & Friends, the presidents favorite television show, expressed sharp disappointment.

Donald Trump ruined the biggest layup in the history of debates by not condemning white supremacists, he said. I dont know if he didnt hear it, but hes gotta clarify that right away. Thats like, are you against evil? Why the president didnt just knock it out of the park, Im not sure.

Trump was also rebuked by the sheriff of Portland, Oregon, whom the president claimed during the debate was a supporter.

I have Florida, I have Texas, I have Ohio, Trump said. Excuse me, Portland, the sheriff there just came out today and said, I support President Trump.

But Multnomah County Sheriff Mike Reese went on Twitter on Tuesday to deny any such support.

As the Multnomah County Sheriff I have never supported Donald Trump and will never support him, he tweeted.

The aftermath of the debate could pose a threat not only to the president, who has trailed Biden for months, but also to Republicans up for reelection in swing states, such as Sen. Susan Collins of Maine, who are already struggling to keep the backing of Trump supporters while distancing themselves enough from the president to woo swing voters.

The debate could also hurt Republican efforts to hold onto swing congressional districts in the nations suburbs.

Many found the entire debate disturbing, said Sarah Chamberlain, president of the Republican Main Street Partnership PAC, a group that supports the dwindling band of GOP centrists in the House.

Our polling shows he damaged the brand in suburban areas, she said.

As the post-debate commentary swirled, Biden , underscored a theme he tried to get across in the din of Tuesdays debate.

Does your president understand at all what youre going through? he said.

Does he see you where you are and where you want to be? Does he care? Has he tried to walk in your shoes to understand whats going on in your life?

Trump plans a rally later in the day in Minnesota.

Analysts were puzzled by what Trump was trying to accomplish in the debate. He needs to win over moderate Republicans and wavering independents to overcome Bidens lead in polls. But instead he appears to have unnerved them.

Two public snap polls poll of debate viewers showed Biden winning the debate; 60%-28% in a poll by CNN; a closer outcome, 48%-41%, in one by CBS.

--By Janet Hook, Eli Stokols and Melanie Mason/Los Angeles Times
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 21:26:14|Editor: huaxia

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DAMASCUS, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Nine school students were wounded on Thursday when a landmine exploded near their school in the southwestern countryside of the capital Damascus in southern Syria, state news agency SANA reported.

The landmine, which is a leftover from the rebels' explosive devices, went off while the students were leaving their school in the Beit Jin area, said the report.

The wounded students were rushed to a local hospital.

SANA said the bomb experts in the Syrian army are exerting tremendous efforts to dismantle explosive devices left by the rebels in formerly rebel-held areas in the country. Enditem
An anti-masker launched into an angry tirade at a Subway sandwich shop after staff refused to serve him.

The heated exchange between a customer and an employee at a Subway store in the US was captured on video that went viral on Twitter this week.

A fellow patron began recording while waiting in line behind an unidentified man who stepped up to the counter without a mask - despite a local face covering requirement inside businesses.

The female employee behind the counter calmly explains that she can't serve him as the man repeatedly shouts at her to ignore the health department's warnings.

'I want my sandwich!' he cries.

Scroll down for video

An anti-masker was dubbed 'Sandwich Karen' after video showed him launching into an angry tirade at a Subway store in the US because staff refused to serve him

The man repeatedly screamed: 'I want my sandwich!' as other patrons patiently waited in line

The video opens with the employee telling the mask-less man: 'The health department will shut my business down.'

'The health department's over!' the man responds with frustration. 'Don't listen to them!'

The employee maintains her composure as she pleads with the man to hear her, while he insists that she ignore the rules and give him what he came for.

He furiously grabs a bag of chips off a display and says: 'I have freedom, I have rights, serve the people!'

'I have the right not to serve you,' the woman replies, placing her hands on her chest in exasperation.

The man raises his voice even louder and shouts: 'I'm not forcing you! You're forcing me!'

The video opens with the employee telling the mask-less man that she can't serve him without a mask because: 'The health department will shut my business down.' He replies: 'The health department's over!' the man responds with frustration. 'Don't listen to them!'

The employee repeatedly tells the man to leave as he threatens to call the police on her

The employee points to the door urging the man to move out of the way as he threatens to 'call someone' to complain.

'Call who you need to, it's the law from the health department,' the employee says.

'You're breaking the law, you're following them, I'm not,' the man shoots back. 'I want my sandwich.'

'Sir, I'm not going to serve you, you need to go,' the employee insists before the man leans over the counter and shouts even louder: 'I want my sandwich!'

She asks him one last time to put on a mask, to which he responds: 'I'm not wearing a mask! I need to breathe!'

When the employee walks away from the counter, the man turns around and looks incredulously at the other compliant customers waiting in line.

'What's your f**king problem, wearing your f**king mask?' he yells before throwing a bag of chips at the floor and storming out.

When the employee walks away, the man turns around and looks at the other compliant customers waiting in line, shouting: 'What's your f**king problem, wearing your f**king mask?'

He launches a bag of chips at the ground before finally storming out of the store

The video was posted on Monday by @davenewworld_2 and has already racked up more than 100,000 views as users ridiculed the irate anti-masker - dubbing him 'Sandwich Karen'.

'To this day, I still don't understand why people have a problem wearing a mask,' one user wrote.

Another added: 'I know it's been said numerous times bit these people don't get paid enough to have to put up with this kind of abuse.'

A third critic asserted: 'People refusing to mask in public should be denied health insurance coverage at the very least and medical care as well.'

The video was one of dozens that have gone viral over the course of the coronavirus pandemic as citizens balk at widespread mask mandates and insist that the requirements are an infringement on their freedoms.

Earlier this month a group of anti-maskers stormed a Target store in Florida and demanded that fellow customers join them in defying the rules.

In South Dakota, a sewage technician was wrestled out of a school board meeting because he refused to put on a face covering.
ATLANTA, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Marine Products Corporation (NYSE: MPX) announced today that during the third quarter of 2020 it purchased 97,940 shares under its share repurchase program.

Marine Products Corporation (NYSE: MPX) is a leading manufacturer of fiberglass boats under three brand names: Chaparral, Robalo and Vortex. Chaparral's sterndrive models include SSi and SSX, along with the Chaparral Surf Series. Chaparral's outboard offerings include various models, such as OSX Luxury Sportboats, the 257 SSX, and SunCoast Sportdecks. Robalo builds an array of outboard sport fishing boats, which include center consoles, dual consoles and Cayman Bay Boat models. Chaparral also offers jet powered boats under the Vortex brand name. The Company continues to diversify its product lines through product innovation. With premium brands, a solid capital structure, and a strong independent dealer network, Marine Products Corporation is prepared to capitalize on opportunities to increase its market share and to generate superior financial performance to build long-term shareholder value. For more information on Marine Products Corporation visit our website at MarineProductsCorp.com.

For information contact:

BEN M. PALMER

Chief Financial Officer

(404) 321-7910

[email protected]

JIM LANDERS

Vice President Corporate Services

(404) 321-2162

[email protected]

SOURCE Marine Products Corporation

Related Links

http://www.marineproductscorp.com


Families living in the al-Deir camp in Idleb have been told they must pay 50 Turkish lira, despite the poor condition in the cam and lack of services reports Baladi News.

The Agriculture Office of the al-Deir Hassan Local Council demanded the residents of the al-Deir camp, near the town of Talada in the northern countryside of Idleb, pay the amount of 50 Turkish liras as an annual rent for each tent, in addition to issuing new lease contracts with the displaced, even though the land was previously owned by the state.

An exclusive source from the camp told Baladi News, Last year, we paid the Agriculture Office of the Salvation Government an amount of 3,500 Syrian pounds for each 1010 tent in the camp in exchange for land lease, land that belongs to the state and is not even private property.

The source explained that the Salvation Governments Agriculture Office informed the camp director that lease contracts must be renewed and that 50 Turkish liras must be paid for each tent occupied by the displaced, in exchange for renewing the lease contract with the Salvation Government as a way to legalize housing in state property, which happens to be uninhabitable land.

The source pointed out that most of the displaced people residing in the camp refused to pay the Agriculture Office because they are poor and their living conditions are already precarious, which means they are unable to secure the amount, noting that the camp residents have not received any form of support or aid from the Salvation Government since they started living in the camp.

The source pointed out that no organization acts as camp guarantor, which means that the displaced pay large sums to prepare the land so they can erect their tents, despite the land being mountainous, rugged, and unsuitable for housing.

According to the source, each displaced family paid nearly 100,000 Syrian pounds in order to scrape off the land and erect each tent.

The number of displaced families in the al-Deir camp is about 150, all of whom were displaced from the southern countryside of Idleb and northern Hama.

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.
DAVENPORT, Iowa  The racial justice protests following the death of George Floyd earlier this year prompted calls to defund the police in cities across the country, a priority for activists that has now become a central point in the presidential contest.

A review by The Associated Press finds that while local governments have trimmed police budgets over the past four months, the cuts have been mostly modest. They have been driven as much by shrinking government revenue related to the coronavirus pandemic as from the calls to rethink public safety.

Advocates want to overhaul a policing system that has repeatedly been linked to brutality against Black people, including the death of Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police in May.

Those calling for defunding generally mean shifting money from law enforcement agencies to other efforts. They want social workers rather than police to respond to non-crime emergency calls and more money sent to community programs aimed at preventing crime. They want to take police officers out of schools and military gear away from departments.

Police dont really solve or prevent most of what is classified as criminal activity, said Ash-Lee Woodard Henderson, a lead activist at the Movement for Black Lives.

A narrative that has often overwhelmed local debates over police reforms and funding is that activists want to strip entire budgets from local law enforcement and replace the departments with something else. President Donald Trump has repeatedly said his Democratic rival, former Vice President Joe Biden, supports defunding police, even though Biden has stated clearly that he does not. Democratic mayors across the U.S. also have pumped the brakes on major changes.

In Minneapolis, Seattle and Portland, Oregon, all hotspots for protests and counter protests, the calls for deep police cuts have been answered with modest ones, at least for now. Even in liberal enclaves such as Austin, Texas, and Berkeley, California, where officials have embraced sweeping changes to policing, implementation is slow-going and uncertain.

Some of the boldest proposals came in Minneapolis, where Floyd died after being pinned to the ground by a white officer who pressed his knee into Floyds neck for nearly eight minutes. The officer and three other officers were fired and have been charged in Floyds death.

Soon after Floyd was killed, the majority of the City Council pledged to dismantle the police department. But its far from happening: Some council members have backtracked on their pledges, and a ballot measure on the topic wont go before voters this year.

In Seattle, activists have called for cutting police funding in half. The City Council approved something much more modest  cuts equal to less than 1% of the police budget and shifts of some money to community programs.

Mayor Jenny Durkan vetoed even that before the council overrode her in late September, with some calling the measure a down payment on future reductions. In a statement, Durkan said the calls for budget cuts dont come with solutions about how to offer many of the services police perform, including dealing with homeless encampments.

Part of my overwhelming concern about councils approach on the 2020 budget was a lack of a plan, said Durkan, who like most big-city mayors, is a Democrat.

In Portland, this years police budget is nearly $10 million less than last years, but that was far less than the $50 million cut activists had sought. It represents less than 4% of the police budget.

Austin has plans to reduce its police budget by one-third, but its not certain that will happen. The city transferred about $21.5 million of its $450 million police budget to areas such as homeless services.

The city is exploring bigger changes, including moving civilian duties such as forensic science and victim services out of the department. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, has said he would consider having the state take over policing in the capital city in response.

In Berkeley, the council agreed in July to create a new traffic enforcement agency with the intent of eliminating racial profiling in traffic stops. But the switch will take time.

Some smaller left-leaning cities also are considering cuts to police. Burlington, Vermont, adopted a plan to reduce the number of officers by 30% through attrition. In North Carolina, the Asheville City Council this past summer gave police and other city departments only one-fourth of their annual funding. But in September, the council adopted a budget that repurposes only about 3% of the police budget.

Larger cities, including San Francisco and Los Angeles, have settled on relatively small police budget reductions and boosts to other programs. Philadelphia rolled back planned funding increases.

New York City announced a police budget cut, but a piece of that was moving school officers from the police department to the education department.

Some activists have been underwhelmed at the scope of the changes so far.

Its a positive that we were able to prevent increases in budgets, said Scott Roberts, who leads criminal justice efforts for the racial justice group Color of Change. But its not what we were looking for.

Patrick Yoes, president of the Fraternal Order of Police, which has endorsed Trump, told the AP that the defunding talk is demoralizing officers and pushing good candidates away from police careers.

Even without massive policing overhauls, its significant that cities are including law enforcement budgets in the spending cuts they are being forced to make as tax revenue has shriveled during the coronavirus pandemic, said Insha Rahman, a vice president at the Vera Institute of Justice. In Milwaukee, for example, the Democratic mayor has proposed eliminating 120 officer positions through attrition to deal with a citywide budget deficit.

Police spending accounts for one-fourth to half of government spending in most big cities and has sometimes been considered untouchable.

We are seeing in big city councils, like in New York City, the budget conversation has been dominated by what actually delivers public safety, Rahman said.

Some departments got a one-time boost this year from an $850 million law enforcement package approved by Congress to deal with coronavirus-related expenses.

While there have been no massive defunding actions, policing changes are being considered in cities across the U.S.

In Davenport, Iowa, the Civil Rights Commission is asking the City Council to consider a list of initiatives on public safety, including reallocating money from police to social services and community programs.

Henry Karp, the commission vice chairman, said he is hopeful the measures will be adopted, though he expects resistance,.

He cited the August shooting by police of Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisconsin, which left the Black man paralyzed. Like Kenosha, Davenport is a Midwestern city of about 100,000 people.

That hasnt happened here yet, Karp said. And thats what we want to prevent.

___

Geoff Mulvihill of The Associated Press wrote this story. Follow Mulvihill at http://www.twitter.com/geoffmulvihill
A trendy cafe has been slapped with a hefty fine after a routine inspection found the kitchen in a shocking state.

The eatery in Brisbane's north-east was hit with a $13,000 fine for failing to comply with the Food Act following a routine audit in July 2018.

Brisbane City Council barrister Greg McGuire told the Magistrates Court cockroaches was found throughout the premises, the Courier Mail reported.

A fancy cafe and bakery has been slapped with a hefty fine after a routine inspection found the kitchen was so dirty it was rife with cockroaches

Inspectors found the cafe's director and part-owner had failed to carry out pest control after noticing the insects two days earlier.

They also found unidentifiable matter in a drain as well as in bread pans, on the floor and walls in parts of the premises.

When confronted one of the part-owners they said 'we don't take them very lightly at all, because we deal with people's lives.'

He claimed to have already booked in pest control for the next day, and admitted the situation was 'unbelievably unacceptable'.

In Brisbane Magistrates Court on Thursday, the part-owner pleaded guilty to four counts each of failing to comply with the Food Act.

They also found unidentifiable matter in a drain as well as in bread pans and on the floor and walls in parts of the premises

When confronted,a part-owner said 'we don't take them very lightly at all, because we deal with people's lives'

Inspectors suspended the cafe's food licence before reinstating it the following day after they fixed the issues.

Barrister Michael Henry told the court the owners contacted a pest controller on the day the cockroaches were found, but the pest company couldn't visit the cafe immediately.

The business had paid pest control to be carried out monthly rather than quarterly as recommended by exterminators.

Magistrate Colin Strofield fined the owner $2000 and no conviction was recorded.
Its a sign of the times.

As Ontarios COVID-19 infections soar, Premier Doug Ford invited political rivals to huddle in his Queens Park office Wednesday to discuss the pandemic response.

We have the best plan in the country and we are ready to respond as the situation on the ground changes, Ford told reporters before the meeting with Liberal Leader Steven Del Duca, Green Leader Mike Schreiner, and NDP MPP John Vanthof, standing in for leader Andrea Horwath.

We have the best and the brightest minds working together on this. We have an army of front-line heroes helping to deliver this plan. But well need everyone pulling in the same direction, the premier said.

After the closed-door 45-minute meeting, Fords office called it a productive discussion that underscored the importance of putting partisanship aside during this extremely difficult and unprecedented situation.

As the premier has said before, there is no Team Blue, Orange, Red or Green when it comes to the health and well-being of the people of Ontario. He pressed that a Team Ontario approach is crucial in our fight against the spread of COVID-19.

Del Duca said he was encouraged that Ford agreed with his suggestion that these Team Ontario meetings between the opposition leaders, premier and senior cabinet ministers should occur on a regular basis moving forward.

Health Minister Christine Elliot, Finance Minister Rod Phillips, and Dr. David Williams, the chief medical officer of health, were also at the meeting.

The Liberal leader implored the premier to focus on expanding lab capacity for testing (and) boost  pay for front-line workers in our nursing homes.

Del Ducas office said he and Ford agreed that the pandemic should be the number one priority of all political parties and that more needs to be done to boost Ontarios economic recovery.

Vanthof (Timiskaming-Cochrane) pinch hit for Horwath, who had a long-scheduled medical appointment.

I have a lot of respect for the premiers office and for the premier, said the NDPs deputy chief.

But he was the one who brought up politics after insisting he doesnt want to be partisan. He said he likes NDP supporters because they vote for him, the MPP said.

I didnt mention a political party  he did, said Vanthof.

On Twitter, Schreiner said he voiced concerns from constituents about the delay in delivering a second wave plan.

I urged the premier to meet with the opposition again so we can work through COVID-19 together.

Robert Benzie is the Stars Queens Park bureau chief and a reporter covering Ontario politics. Follow him on Twitter: @robertbenzie

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A former Commissioner for Home Affairs in Lagos State, Abdulhakeem Abdullateef, has announced his resignation from the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement announcing his resignation from the ruling party, Mr Abdullateef said his decision followed the rejection, by party leaders, of a movement he launched to promote good governance in the state.

I launched a movement IYEPE 2023 because I believe that the Nigerian constitution allows freedom of expression and the rights of all citizens to participate in bringing about the needed transformation in all sectors of the economy, Mr Abdullateef said in the statement which he titled My 1st October Speech.

I am an indigene of Lagos State and an Awori by birth. I, therefore, have a duty to take positive steps including admonitions and practical reorientation of our people towards the ideal society we crave for.

My desire is to win the pleasure of my lord which no political position can replace and that is why I am not desperate.

The former Lagos State House of Assembly member added that he would be totally fulfilled when he has made efforts to enlighten his people about good governance, welfarism, youth development, the care of the elderly, and the growth of the private sector among others.

This movement has been rejected by some close leaders I respect, Mr Abdullateef, who also served as the Imam of the Lagos State House of Assembly, continued.

I have therefore decided to leave the party in order not to create disunity within the party. Please do not persecute or victimise my followers who have chosen to stay in APC. I leave them all in the care of the Lord. I am more concerned about paradise and I am not afraid of death.

I will continue to preach the word of God and invite all Nigerians regardless of their religions, colour and race to be determined to be different. We cannot continue this way.

Mr Abdullateef expressed gratitude to the party leaders, state governor, and members of the state house of assembly for their support while working for the party.

To all other leaders of our party too numerous to mention, may the good Lord continue to be with you.
The Route 29 line is the first of a comprehensive network of as many as 10 BRT lines that Montgomery County first envisioned in 2013. Elrich said such a network is key to creating a true transit-friendly county, with robust east-west and north-south bus connections. Following the kickoff of Route 29, he said, the county plans to proceed with other bus rapid transit systems on the main arteries that connect to job centers and Metro and have the countys Ride On bus system, which covers neighborhoods, feed that system.
Built on Penetron waterproofing technology: The 90 million Porto di Ventimiglia (Italy) project created a new marina on the Mediterranean coast. Finally, the ease of application and the time savings in the construction schedule enabled by the Penetron System made the Ventimiglia project a complete success.

Completed this month, the Porto di Ventimiglia Marina is now the newest stop for sailors (and shoppers!) on the Italian Riviera. Penetron was trusted to provide durable solutions to waterproof and protect the concrete tanks as well as the piers, walls and slabs of the new port against the harsh marine environment.

A popular summer destination for tourists on the Italian (and French) Riviera, Ventimiglia (pop. 55,000) features a historic town center, a popular weekly street market on the Boardwalk, and a new marina: the Porto di Ventimiglia.

The new marina is not the first project Penetron Italia helped complete in Ventimiglia, adds Enricomaria Gastaldo Brac, CEO & Managing Director of Penetron Italia. Just over a year ago, we provided a durable waterproofing solution for the vehicular underpass at the main train station by adding Penetrons integral crystalline technology to the cast-in-place concrete components for the tunnel structure.

The 90 million Porto di Ventimiglia project created a new marina on the Mediterranean coast that increased the number of berths for boats, expanded marina services, added retail shops and parking areas  and even an elevator to connect the port with the historic center of Ventimiglia.

Integral Waterproofing the Most Durable

CEM, the project contractor, asked Penetron Italia to provide a durable waterproofing solution for the following key concrete elements of the new port:



Yacht fuel tanks  four concrete tanks (4 m x 12 m x 3.6 m) with a 30 cm thick base slab permanently immersed in sea water

Hydraulic service tanks  five tanks (5 m x 5 m x 3.3 m) with a 30 cm thick base slab permanently immersed in sea water

All concrete piers, walls and slabs exposed to seawater and surrounding weather conditions

All resulting construction joints and tie holes in the foundation slabs and walls, especially for the underwater components

During the planning phase of the marina project, it became evident that the quayside construction of the concrete marine structures and the need to hoist each tank and the pier elements into the sea would demand a robust waterproofing solution. The Penetron System was the only system that would not be damaged during the complicated installation process of the tanks  because Penetron waterproofing is integral to the concrete, says Enricomaria Gastaldo Brac. The Penetron System met all performance parameters of the Ventimiglia marina project.

Lifetime Concrete Protection

Added during batching, PENETRON ADMIX significantly increases concrete durability and service life through a non-soluble crystalline formation that grows throughout the pores and capillary tracts of the concrete to permanently seal microcracks, pores and capillaries against the penetration of seawater and moisture from any direction. This significantly reduces chloride penetration into the concrete, which prevents corrosion of the underlying reinforcement steel. Once the concrete has been placed, the waterproofing and protection capabilities are part of the concrete matrix for the lifespan of the concrete.

Finally, the ease of application and the time savings in the construction schedule enabled by the Penetron System made the Ventimiglia project a complete success, concludes Enricomaria Gastaldo Brac.

The Penetron Group is a leading manufacturer of specialty construction products for concrete waterproofing, concrete repairs and floor preparation systems. The Group operates through a global network, offering support to the design and construction community through its regional offices, representatives and distribution channels.

For more information on Penetron waterproofing solutions, please visit penetron(dot)com or Facebook(dot)com/ThePenetronGroup, email CRDept(at)penetron(dot)com or contact the Corporate Relations Department at 631-941-9700.
A container ship is pushed to its berth by a tug at the Port of Melbourne on June 6, 2018. (WILLIAM WEST/AFP via Getty Images)

Maritime Union Should Not Extort Australia: Prime Minister

The Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) has been told not to extort Australia by Prime Minister Scott Morrison after industrial negotiations between the MUA and stevedoring company, Patrick, reached an impasse.

In a media release on Sept. 29, Patrick said that industrial action by the MUA had reached the point where it was delaying imports and exports at ports in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and Fremantle with some ports being delayed up to 11 days.

The company also alleges that there are 38 ships with more than 100 thousand containers currently waiting to be unloaded. But the MUA and the Australian Council of Trade Union (ACTU) disputes this.

Speaking at a press conference after Patricks announcement, Morrison said it was not acceptable for the MUA to be engaging in a campaign of extortion.

We cannot have the militant end of the union movement effectively engaging in a campaign of extortion against the Australian people in the middle of a COVID-19 recession. I mean this is just extraordinary, appalling behaviour, said Morrison.

He then noted that while there was a time for extortionate demands, it was not when the country is in the middle of a difficult recession.

I would think that the union movement would want to distance itself from that behaviour as much as certainly the government does in condemning it, he said.

The dispute between Patrick and the MUA is centred around the creation of a new enterprise agreement.

According to Patrick, the MUAs requests include a six percent wage increase per year for the next four years, a guarantee of job security for the term of the agreement, and a $2000 sign-on bonus for all employees who enter into the new enterprise agreement among other claims.

Patrick estimates the cost of the new agreement is an additional $40 million a year and has countered with guaranteed pay rises of 1.5 percent and 2.5 percent over four years.

Taking the unusual step of releasing its pay scales under the current enterprise agreement, Patrick explained that fulltime maritime workers in Sydney and Fremantle ports receive $172,124 and $166,464 annually for a 35 hour week. Those who work at Melbourne and Brisbane ports receive $151,048 and $153,880 annually.

Michael Jovicic, Patrick Terminals chief executive, told the ABC on Sept. 29 that the industrial action had reduced the companys operations in just Sydney to 50 or 60 percent of the normal levels, causing a backlog of up to 90,000 containers.

Im getting phone calls every day and night from importers and exporters complaining about this industrial action, he explained to the ABC.

Of most concern to the federal government is that there will be a delay in medical supplies which has been vehemently denied by the MUA.

Greg Hunt, the federal health minister, who had been consulting with Medicines Shortage of Working Group with the Therapy Goods Administration told the Nine Network on Sept. 29 that there was is a clear risk to the supply of vital medicines to Australia.

There are risks, and there are consequences, and I would respectfully say to those in the union that are denying that there are risks to medicines, the advice they have is false, incorrect and untrue, Hunt said.

Its not an immediate risk, but if this goes on for any period of time, then we will see potential shortages, and thats been provided to us by a range of different medical companies, he said.

Responding with its own media statement on Sept. 29, the MUA declared that they would be offering a peace deal at the conciliation meeting at Fair Work Commission on Sept. 29.

According to the MUA the peace deal would see the companys pre-existing enterprise agreement extended for an additional 12 months with a pay rise of 2.5 percent to wharfies.

Our proposal does not seek to modify a single word of the existing agreement, so there is no change to the arrangements that Patrick has successfully and profitably operated their container terminals under, MUA National Secretary Paddy Crumlin said, noting its acceptance would result in the immediate end to all industrial action at Patrick container terminals.

It would provide certainty for farmers, exporters, and the general community, and allow Patrick and the union to refocus our efforts on the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID crisis, he said.
WASHINGTON - Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett signed a 2006 newspaper ad sponsored by an anti-abortion group in which she said she opposed abortion on demand and defended the right to life from fertilization to the end of natural life.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 1/10/2020 (478 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Supreme Court nominee Judge Amy Coney Barrett, meets with Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, not shown, Thursday, Oct. 1, 2020, at the Capitol in Washington. (Caroline Brehman/Pool via AP)

WASHINGTON - Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett signed a 2006 newspaper ad sponsored by an anti-abortion group in which she said she opposed "abortion on demand" and defended "the right to life from fertilization to the end of natural life."

The ad, which had more than 1,200 names attached to it, appears to be the most direct expression of Barretts opposition to abortion and is sure to intensify debate that she would vote to restrict, if not overturn, abortion rights if she is confirmed to the Supreme Court.

It was not included in materials Barrett provided to the Senate Judiciary Committee for her pending high-court nomination or in 2017, when she was nominated to the job she currently holds as a judge on the federal appeals court based in Chicago.

President Donald Trump has nominated Barrett to take the seat of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, an abortion rights supporter who died last month.

White House spokesperson Judd Deere said Barrett already has distinguished her personal views from her responsibility as a judge. "As Judge Barrett said on the day she was nominated, A judge must apply the law as written. Judges are not policymakers, and they must be resolute in setting aside any policy views they might hold," Deere said in an email.

Barrett, meeting for a third day with senators on Capitol Hill, declined to comment when asked why she did not disclose the ad on her questionnaire.

She was meeting with Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo, who has pledged to support only nominees who acknowledge that Roe v. Wade was wrongly decided. "How she will vote in the future on Roe, I dont know," Hawley said after the meeting.

Barrett was a professor at the University of Notre Dame Law School when she and her husband, Jesse, along with other people affiliated with Notre Dame, signed the brief statement sponsored by Right to Life of St. Joseph County, Indiana. "We, the following citizens of Michiana, oppose abortion on demand and defend the right to life from fertilization to the end of natural life," the ad in the South Bend (Indiana) Tribune read. "Please continue to pray to end abortion."

The statement was part of a two-page spread that ran in conjunction with the anniversary of the Supreme Courts Roe v. Wade ruling in 1973 that declared a nationwide, constitutional right to abortion. "Its time to put an end to the barbaric legacy of Roe v. Wade and restore laws that protect the lives of unborn children," the other, unsigned page of the ad read.

Jackie Appleman, executive director of the anti-abortion group, declined to comment. The group is now known as Right to Life Michiana, encompassing parts of Indiana and Michigan.

The South Bend Tribune provided a copy of the ad, dated Jan. 21, 2006, to The Associated Press. The Guardian newspaper first reported the existence of the ad.

Barrett's name on the ad points in the same direction as her membership in Notre Dames "Faculty for Life" group and her name on a 2015 letter to Roman Catholic bishops affirming the "value of human life from conception to natural death."

But she said about abortion in her 2017 questionnaire before her confirmation to the appeals court that "my views on this or any other question will have no bearing on the discharge of my duties as a judge."

On the Senate floor, meanwhile, Democrats who know they cant stop Barretts nomination continued Thursday to use Senate rules to delay and call attention to Republican states lawsuit, backed by the Trump administration, to strike down the Affordable Care Act. The court will hear the latest challenge to the law a week after the election, and if confirmed by then, Barrett could take part.

"The threat to Americans health care is very, very real," Schumer said before senators voted on whether to prevent the Department of Justice from arguing to strike down the Affordable Care Act in the Supreme Court. "And Senate Republicans are tying themselves in knots in trying to explain how its not."

The vote got 51 of the 60 votes it needed to pass.

While Democrats knew the vote would fail, Schumer tied up business on the Senate floor for over an hour  and forced Republicans to go on the record as endorsing the administrations efforts to repeal it. Six Republicans voted with Democrats: Maine Sen. Susan Collins, Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst, Colorado Sen. Cory Gardner, Arizona Sen. Martha McSally and Alaska Sens. Lisa Murkowksi and Dan Sullivan. All but Murkowski are in competitive races for reelection this year.

Trump said in Tuesdays debate that he doesnt know Barretts views on Roe v. Wade and didnt discuss them with her when they met in the Oval Office three days after Ginsburgs death. She said in her Senate questionnaire that no one had asked her about her views on any specific legal issue.

She has voted at least twice on abortion issues as an appellate judge, both times joining dissenting opinions to decisions in favour of abortion rights.

Last year, after a three-judge panel blocked an Indiana law that would make it harder for a minor to have an abortion without her parents being notified, Barrett voted to have the decision thrown out and the case reheard by the full court. In July, the Supreme Court did, in fact, throw out the panels ruling and ordered a new look at the case.

In 2018, a three-judge panel ruled that Indiana laws requiring that funerals be held for fetal remains after an abortion or miscarriage and banning abortions because of the sex, race or developmental disability of a fetus were unconstitutional.

Barrett was among four judges who wanted the full court to weigh in and suggested that the laws, signed by then-Gov. Mike Pence, might be constitutional.

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Last year, the Supreme Court reinstated the fetal remains law, but not the ban on abortions for race, sex and developmental disabilities.

Barrett, who is Catholic, co-wrote a 1998 law review article in which she said "that Catholic judges (if they are faithful to the teachings of their church), are morally precluded from enforcing the death penalty. This means that they can neither themselves sentence criminals to death nor enforce jury recommendations of death." The article in the Marquette Law Journal was jointly bylined with John Garvey, then a Notre Dame law professor and now president of Catholic University in Washington, D.C.

The authors, though, drew a distinction between the church's opposition to capital punishment and abortion. "The prohibitions against abortion and euthanasia (properly defined) are absolute," they wrote, but that "those against war and capital punishment are not."

"There are two evident differences between the cases. First, abortion and euthanasia take away innocent life. This is not always so with war and punishment."

___

Associated Press writers Zeke Miller, Lisa Mascaro and Mary Clare Jalonick in Washington contributed to this report.
A Russian man convicted of hacking LinkedIn, Dropbox and Formspring was sentenced on Wednesday to more than seven years in prison. The man, Yevgeniy Nikulin, is convicted of stealing personal information of more than 100 million customers.

According to news agency AP, Nikulin, 32, was sentenced by a federal court in San Francisco, after a six-day trial that took place in July. He was convicted for selling stolen usernames and passwords, installing malware on protected computers, conspiracy, computer intrusion and aggravated identity theft.

Prosecutors said that in 2012, Nikulin, working from Moscow, hacked the computers of the San Francisco Bay Area companies, installed malware, stole login credentials for employees and used them to obtain customer data such as usernames and passwords that he offered for sale on a Russian-speaking cybercrime forum.

The Formspring and Dropbox hacks were similar, as per official statements.

Nikulin was arrested in Prague in 2016 and extradited to the United States in 2018 after a long extradition battle. His trial began this March but was suspended because the coronavirus pandemic closed the courthouse. The case resumed in July.

As per a report by NBC, Nikulin was also convicted of hacking into Formspring, a social networking service that shuttered in 2013, and Automattic, the parent company of WordPress. The US Attorney's office in a statement said there was no evidence that he stole anything from Automattic.

(With agency inputs from AP)
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The Odessa Police Department Criminal Investigation Division, along with the assistance of the Texas Rangers Unsolved Crimes Investigation Program have made an arrest in connection to a cold case murder investigation, according to a press release.

Bill Wayne Ludwigson, 58, has been charged in connection with the murder of Velma Nesset, 64 years of age at the time of her death. One April 19, 1982, Nessets body was located in a drainage culvert in the 4200 block of Tanglewood Lane after she failed to arrive at her place of employment at the Permian Mall (now Music City Mall). Nesset was employed by the mall as a part-time housekeeper.
With two Housewives already confirmed to be exiting Real Housewives of Beverly Hills - Teddi Mellencamp and Denise Richards - Ali Landry reveals she has talked with producers about joining the show.

The 47-year-old actress appeared on Radio Andy's Jeff Lewis Live on Wednesday, where Lewis asked her about Mellencamp and Richards leaving the show.

Landry revealed she has had discussions with the show's producers, but still she's, 'not sure it's for me.'

Ali speaks: With two Housewives already confirmed to be exiting Real Housewives of Beverly Hills - Teddi Mellencamp and Denise Richards - Ali Landry reveals she has talked with producers about joining the show

Leaving: The 47-year-old actress appeared on Radio Andy's Jeff Lewis Live on Wednesday, where Lewis asked her about Mellencamp and Richards leaving the show

When asked if she might get the gig, Landry responded, 'Oh, I don't know Jeff,' though she did reveal discussions with producers have happened.

'I mean, the last time we spoke, I had gone through... I talked to them like three or four different times, the executive producers,' she said.

'And they said, of course, we would let you know, but, in my heart, I shared that with you, I honestly don't know,' she added.

Discussions: When asked if she might get the gig, Landry responded, 'Oh, I don't know Jeff,' though she did reveal discussions with producers have happened

Don't know: 'And they said, of course, we would let you know, but, in my heart, I shared that with you, I honestly don't know,' she added

Landry added, 'I don't know if it's for me,' before adding that she does have two good friends on the show, Kyle Richards and Garcelle Beauvais.

'I do have two of my really good friends on there, and it's killing me that they're in a fight,' Landry said, referring to Richards and Beauvais.

'They genuinely do not like each other,' Landry added. 'I adore them both so much. I feel like it's a big misunderstanding and they need to start from scratch.'

Good friends: Landry added, 'I don't know if it's for me,' before adding that she does have two good friends on the show, Kyle Richards and Garcelle Beauvais

Lewis added that he thought Landry, 'would bring something different to the show,' though Landry wondered, 'but it it something different that they want?'

Lewis speculated that, 'I don't even think they know what they want, I just think they throw girls in and shake it up.'

Landry then added, 'I don't know, we'll see. Look, I'm surrendering to the whole experience. No plans, no expectations.'

Different: Lewis added that he thought Landry, 'would bring something different to the show,' though Landry wondered, 'but it it something different that they want?'

Landry first came into prominence when she won the Miss Louisiana in 1996, before winning Miss USA that same year.

She was thrust into the national spotlight two years later when she appeared in a Super Bowl commercial for Doritos in 1998.

She was married to Mario Lopez for under a year before it was annulled, and she marred Alejandro Gomez Monteverde in 2006.
The Chief Executive of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has been bestowed with the National Award of Commander of the National Order of Cote dIvoire by the President of Cote dIvoire H.E. Alassane Dramane Ouattara.



The award was conferred on him for leading the joint Ghanaian and Ivorian negotiations to secure a new cocoa trading mechanism which has a Living Income Differential (LID) as a means to ensure that cocoa farmers in Ghana and Cote dIvoire earn a living income from the sale of their cocoa beans.



The Ivorian Commander of the National Order Award is reserved for individuals who have distinguished themselves in service to the Ivorian nation.



The award was presented to him on Thursday 1st October, at a ceremony held in Yamoussoukro to mark this years edition of la Journee Nationale du Cacao et du Chocolat (the National Cocoa and Chocolate Day), the Ivorian equivalent of Ghanas Cocoa Day celebrations.



The Ivorian Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development, Kouassi Adjoumani, said Ivorian cocoa farmers owe Ghanas president, Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo and the Chief Executive of COCOBOD a great debt for their work to improve the living standards of cocoa farmers.



He acknowledged that although the COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted all sectors of the economy, including the price of cocoa. LID has ensured that the income of cocoa farmers in the country have been protected.



He expressed, on behalf of the entire cocoa sector, and particularly the cocoa subsector a solemn appreciation, to Hon. Joseph Boahen Aidoo and congratulated him for the national award.



In his keynote address, H.E. Alassane Dramane Ouattara recounted the discussions he had with his Ghanaian counterpart, President Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo, which has culminated in the achievement of LID. A US$400 extra amount on every tonne of cocoa sold by the two countries.



We are friends and sons of both Ghana and Cote dIvoire, President Ouattara said, as he paid homage to President Akufo-Addo for his leadership and commitment to strengthening the cooperation between Ghana and Cote dIvoire".



The achievement of LID is a testimony to the excellent relationship between the two countries and a harbinger of what can be accomplished by deepening the cooperation between the two countries, he said.



In his acceptance speech, Hon. Joseph Boahen Aidoo also expressed his profound gratitude to the Ivorian President for conferring on him a high national honour. He described the award as the greatest recognition he has obtained in his life.



Hon. Boahen Aidoo recognized the immense contribution which the Chief Executive of CCC, Mr. Ibrahim Kone Yves, and his team made to the achievement of LID.



He also described LID as the greatest legacy of the two presidents and said that its sustenance depends on the continues cooperation of the two countries to consolidate present gains and reach for higher goals. He assured President Ouattara of Ghanas commitment in that regard.



The Ivorian president used the occasion to announce an increase in the producer price of cocoa in Cote dIvoire for the next crop season from CFA 825 per kilogram to CFA1000 per kilogram. He stated that the increase in price has only been made possible by the Living Income Differential.

Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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HB Customs Holger Breuer is no stranger to the glorious realm of unique two-wheelers. The moto wizard completed his very first build all the way back in 2004. Ever since his introductory project, this ambitious fellow managed to deliver over thirty one-off entities. Let me tell you, each and every single one of these things is a genuine testament to Breuers remarkable abilities.As you browse his magnificent portfolio, youll find absolutely no shortage of breathtaking creatures thatll have just about any gearhead drooling. These include his spectacular Kawasaki Z650-based venture, a sinister Triumph T100 and one brutal Harley Davidson Softail Slim, to name a few.To give you an idea as to what this German magician is capable of achieving, well be having a quick look at one of his projects. The exploit in question in based on a truly ravishing showstopper, namely Honda s iconic CB900F Bol dOr. Before we go into any details about the build itself, Ill be taking a minute to point out a few of the stock bikes main specs and features.Lets set things straight, the revered CB900F is one hell of a donor to work with. It is put in motion by a ruthless four-strokeinline-four leviathan, with a compression ratio of 8.8:1 and four valves per cylinder head. This feral piece of Japanese machinery prides itself with four Keihin carburetors and a humungous displacement of 901cc.The air-cooled behemoth will produce up to 95 hp at 9,000 rpm, while 57 pound-feet (77 Nm) of monstrous twisting force will be accomplished at approximately 8,000 rpm. This ungodly power travels to a chain final drive by means of a five-speed transmission. As a result, Hondas fierce Bol dOr is blessed with a respectable top speed of 135 mph (217 kph). Additionally, itll be more than happy to run the quarter mile in just under 12 seconds at 110 mph (178 kph).At the front, suspension duties are taken good care of by a pair of air-assisted telescopic forks, joined by a double-sided swingarm and dual adjustable shocks on the opposite end. Stopping power is handled by twin 280 mm (11 inches) brake discs up front and a single 297 mm (11.7 inches) rotor at the rear. Lastly, the entire structure has a dry weight of 513 lbs (233 kg).As to Breuers one-of-a-kind CB900F, the building process kicked off with a frame transplant. Its original steel double cradle unit was removed to make room for an aftermarket counterpart from the experts over at Jung, a reputed German producer of framework.The following step consisted of treating the colossal inline-four mill to a comprehensive overhaul. He replaced its standard Keihin carbs with a set of top-grade modules from Mikunis inventory and crafted a custom four-into-one exhaust system, as well as a carbon fiber airbox. Ultimately, the engines power output figure jumped all the way up to 110 hp.Next, the surgeon went about honoring Bol dOrs front suspension with a Suzuki GSXRs forks, while the rear end received a Wilbers monoshock. Furthermore, its wheels are hugged by high-performance Diabola Supercorsa tires from the almighty Pirelli.Breuer undertook the painstaking task of fabricating several aluminum bodywork components by hand, such as a handsome fuel tank, a slim tail section and even a flawless front fairing that keeps things looking vintage. To top it all off, he raided Motogadgets catalogue for an array of modern electricals and installed adjustable Magura levers.Personally, Ill admit this stunning work of rolling art had me lost for words! If youre finding yourself in a similar position, then you may want to consider heading over to this guys Instagram profile for some more custom goodness.
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GUATEMALA CITY/TEGUCIGALPA: Over 2,000 Central American migrants heading to the United States from Honduras barged past armed Guatemalan security troops at the border on Thursday, as they sought to escape poverty exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic.

On Thursday, caravan members, many wearing face masks, began gathering near the Guatemalan border at 6.30am. By mid-day more than 2,000 migrants had crossed without authorization, said Guatemalan officials, who expressed concern about contagion.

Were talking about a caravan in the middle of a pandemic. The situation is complicated because they broke the health protocols and we dont know who has entered (the country)," said Guatemalas migration director Guillermo Diaz.

One member of the caravan died on Thursday after falling from a trailer in Guatemala and getting trapped under its wheels, the Guatemalan Red Cross reported.

The caravan is the biggest since the coronavirus pandemic hit Central America in March, triggering strict government shutdowns that battered already precarious economies, leading to rises in unemployment and poverty.

It is likely to face challenges crossing through Mexico, where President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has deployed the National Guard to the border with Guatemala and dispersed previous caravans under pressure from the United States.

Republican President Donald Trump has made cracking down on unauthorized immigration a key part of his platform, ahead of the U.S. presidential election in a months time.

Members of the caravan said they were fleeing dire conditions in Honduras, which is experiencing the worst economic decline in its history.

No one migrates because they want to, its out of necessity," Carlos, a Honduran migrant who asked not to use his last name, told Reuters via WhatsApp after reaching Guatemala. We dont have any money to eat."

Migration experts said the pandemic has exacerbated long-standing social issues in Central America.

This new caravan is yet another effect of the pandemic, but even more than that, its a result of social inequalities that are on the rise," said Misael Hernandez, a migration expert at the Colegio de la Frontera Norte.

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Studies for many years have shown that minorities in California are more likely than whites to be stopped and arrested by police. A new report shows particularly wide disparities in police stops for non-traffic infractions, like sitting on the sidewalk, loitering in public or jaywalking, all punishable by hundreds of dollars in fines and fees.

During a recent 18-month period in Oakland, the report said, Black adults were 9.7 times as likely as whites, and Latinos and Latinas 5.8 times as likely, to be cited for such offenses by police. In San Francisco, the white and Latino citation rates were roughly equal, but Black people were 4.5 times as likely as either group to be stopped and cited.

These are not citations police commonly give in white, wealthy neighborhoods, said the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights of the San Francisco Bay Area, which issued the statewide report. They do not include harms to people or property, but instead criminalize everyday behaviors such as standing, sleeping, owning a dog and crossing the street. Owning a dog requires a license in some cities.

Another report in 2016 found that in all types of criminal cases, Blacks were nearly three times as likely to be arrested as white or Latino Californians.

Unlike more serious criminal charges, the new report noted, people accused of non-traffic infractions have no right to a court-appointed attorney. The fines for most infractions range from $25 to $100, but the state has tacked on mandatory fees to fund the financially strapped court system, raising a $100 fine to a $490 penalty. For those who miss a deadline to pay, the bill can run as high as $815. And in some counties, though not San Francisco or Alameda, judges can issue arrest warrants for those who fail to pay their fines.

Despite the attempts to deter or punish nonpayment, the report said, California has more than $10 billion in uncollectable debts from infraction fines and penalties.

Out of 4.77 million criminal cases filed statewide in 2017-18, the report said, more than 256,000, or 5.4%, were for non-traffic infractions. In the last decade, overall criminal charges have declined by 43%, while non-traffic infractions have dropped by 27%.

Jeff Cretan, spokesman for San Francisco Mayor London Breed, said Thursday that Breed has worked for years to reduce the harmful impacts of punitive fines and fees that disproportionately impact low-income families for years. He said the mayor led a successful effort to eliminate some court fees and is working to change our citys response to calls for service so that our police officers can focus more on the violent crimes and dangerous situations for which they are trained.

The new report said San Francisco has taken positive steps with a District Attorneys Office program called Connect, which allows homeless people to get non-traffic infractions dismissed if they receive 20 hours of social service assistance from a city-approved organization.

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 participants must complete paperwork and navigate confusing bureaucracy, the report said, and San Francisco police are still issuing citations for ordinary life-sustaining activities such as sitting or sleeping.

The Lawyers Committee said enforcement of non-traffic infractions has been neither even-handed nor effective and should be scaled back substantially or halted altogether.

Non-traffic infraction enforcement punishes acts that do not call for punishment, expends money on policing that causes harm but achieves no important purpose, and is rife with racial disparity, the report said. At a time when it is not only crucial but possible to reimagine policing, California should end enforcement of these laws.

Bob Egelko is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @BobEgelko
A former employee at the states only youth correctional facility for teenage girls and young women has filed a $500,000 lawsuit against the Oregon Youth Authority, saying the agency fired him after he reported that four other staff members had inappropriate relationships with the incarcerated youth.

Isaiah Montoya says in his lawsuit filed Tuesday that from 2016 to 2019, he reported one staff member who was writing love notes to a youth and three other staff members who had sexual contact with youth at Oak Creek Youth Correctional Facility, which is run by the Oregon Youth Authority.

The suit says three of those co-workers were fired. Court records show at least two of them were convicted of the crime of first-degree official misconduct.

Montoya also reported other unprofessional behavior or safety violations -- such as a staff member watching TV on screens meant to monitor youth who were thought to be at high risk of suicide, according to the lawsuit.

Montoyas reports led to staff deeming him a problem and harassing him, up until the time he was fired this past January, according to the lawsuit. Montoya had been hired as a group life coordinator more than seven years earlier. The lawsuit doesnt say what reason Montoya was given for his firing, but the suit describes him as a whistleblower.

Oregon Youth Authority spokesman Benjamin Chambers said the agency couldnt comment about the lawsuit because of the active litigation. But Chambers described Montoyas claims as concerning.

I can say that we take all claims of sexual abuse extremely seriously, Chambers wrote in an email. We have a zero-tolerance policy on sexual abuse and sexual harassment. And we do a great deal to prevent and respond to allegations of sexual abuse.

That includes educating youth about the importance of reporting sexual abuse, Chambers said.

Oak Creek is located in Albany. It can house up to 50 youth, ages 15 to 25, and many of the young people incarcerated are there because of drug-related problems.

Oak Creek came under national scrutiny in December 2019 when the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics found that about 14% of Oak Creeks youth had reported being sexually victimized while incarcerated in 2018. That was twice the national average and enough to rank Oak Creek among the 10 highest American juvenile facilities for sexual victimization.

In a letter to all employees in July, the Oregon Youth Authority clarified that additional information showed that youth reported four instances of youth-on-youth sexual misconduct and three instances of staff-on-youth sexual misconduct in the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics report. Director Joseph OLeary and Deputy Director Nakeia Daniels wrote that no number of sexual assault incidents is acceptable.

When we learn of an allegation of sexual abuse or victimization, we act on it immediately, they wrote.

Montoyas lawsuit doesnt state why the Oregon Youth Authority fired him. But according to Montoyas attorneys, the agency told Montoya it was firing him for being insensitive or disrespectful to LGBTQ youth and staff. But Montoyas lawsuit and lawyers allege retaliation, after Montoya earlier had reported a defamation campaign against him by staff and youth after word got out that hed reported seeing inappropriate sexual contact between a female staff member and an LGBTQ youth.

Montoyas lawsuit was filed on his behalf in Marion County Circuit Court by Salem attorneys Kevin Lafky and Amanda Reilly. In addition to the Oregon Youth Authority, the lawsuit lists as defendants five supervisors or administrators who the suit says decided to fire Montoya without a formal write-up or disciplinary hearing.

-- Aimee Green; agreen@oregonian.com; @o_aimee
West County Community Hope Center and, of course, the water system were the hot topics at the Leadwood Board of Aldermen meeting Monday night.

Several audience members asked all the right questions according to Mayor David Henry, who, along with the rest of the council, absent Charlie Lewis, did their best to answer.

Resident Connie Smith began. There are so often comments about the water in Leadwood, and I wonder if the public could be informed, where does that $90-plus go, she said. Weve heard a lot about improvements, and Amy (Harrison, another citizen present) read a recent article. Im the kind of person who, even if you say, Itll be done five years from now, thats great, Ive got something to grasp, and I think a lot of unhappy people might comprehend.

City Clerk Kendra Boyer said, We have three USDA accounts, and theres sales tax revenue, we have the fireplug account for maintenance of hydrants, $36.54 goes to sewer for salary, upkeep, things like that, $51.51 goes to water department for salary, payment of bills, improvements.

We hear all the time that were just taking their money  were not. Were paying bills, were saving as much as we can, were putting it into the loan. For the record, we have not received a penny of our grant or loan money. Everyone thinks weve spent it, but we havent even gotten it yet.

Alderman Randy Howard chimed in, But we have to show that we can pay the loan. Thats how stupid this is. We have to show we can pay the loan, without getting the money. And thats what were working on. Its the USDA. I didnt know  I just came on the board back in June for this particular reason.

Weve been saving money to get the payment up for two years, Boyer said.

Alderman John Vickers joined in, We dont get the grant money until after the loan. Theyre loaning us $2.2 million from the USDA, but we have to pay that back. And before we can start, we have to make that one-year payment to them.

Howard said, Then on top of that, we have the Department of Natural Resources to answer to.

Boyer pointed out the city has had, in the meantime, to buy new trucks and pieces of equipment because the well-used trucks and equipment have broken down.

Mayor Henry said, The public just doesnt know. For instance, weve replaced both wells

Boyer broke in, .and those were $25,000 each

Dr. Amy Harrison, a newer Leadwood resident, said she thought citizens were seeking clarity: where is this money, wheres it going, and when can we expect some sort of project timeline.

Howard pointed out Tim Robbs of Taylor Engineering was supposed to have talked at the board meeting that evening, but couldnt make it.

Is he the middle person, between the city and the USDA? Harrison asked. Howard confirmed it. Harrison asked who he reported to in the city. The board confirmed it was all of them.

We had to get an engineer, to get a loan, to get a grant, Howard said. Its complicated.

Harrison, who is on the faculty of Missouri Baptist University, said shes worked with enough grants to know theres nothing easy about them.

Howard explained a bit more. The presence of radionuclides in the water brought DNR down on the city, which is what compelled them to pursue the grants and loans to fix the water system in the first place. In the meantime, the city has figured out another way to deal with the radionuclide problem, but the infrastructure of the water system still needs to be addressed  residents complain of brown, smelly water, often caused by rust in the pipes. Residents down hills and dead-end streets, or residents who dont use enough water to keep the lines flushed, often bear the brunt of it.

Park Hills has also offered to supply the town with water, which Leadwood is seriously considering. According to the board, Park Hills doesnt seem to have a problem with naturally-occurring radionuclides.

Smith asked tentatively, Is there any.um.

.end in sight? Howard quickly added for her, smiling.

You read my mind, Smith said, smiling back.

The timeline is July 2021, Boyer said. That would be the completion of the feasibility study, then construction can start in December 2021, thats the timeline theyve given us now.

Water Supervisor Kevin Brooks said it doesnt make a difference, whether Park Hills or Leadwood water is pursued, the only difference is where it comes from. The project itself includes a new water tank and new mains, that doesnt change. The only thing that might change is where the water comes from, whether we treat our own water or whether we buy water from Park Hills.

So the grant, Harrison said, would give the city and thus the residents, a new water system? The feasibility study is to see whether its better to treat our own water or buy from Park Hills?

The board confirmed this. The residents in the audience indicated they were beginning to understand.

Harrison proposed working with the board and the media present to come up with a way to package the vast amounts of information about the water saga in Leadwood, how its progressing and why its taking so long, to present to the citizens. The board agreed.

Earlier in the meeting, the board heard a report from Betty McIntyre, representing West County Community Hope Center on 206 Church St. The faith-based non-profit mission opened last January and provides various support groups and links to services offered by East Missouri Action Agency, Great Mines Health Center, LIFE Center, Presbyterian Childrens Services and many more organizations that help the general public.

McIntyre said some of their more timely activities have included delivering Farmers to Families food boxes to those in need, keeping their grief support groups going and working with UniTec to offer the HiSET which has replaced the GED.

McIntyre also asked the board to consider partnering with the community organization on four future, possible projects:

A community-wide cleanup initiative, with help from probation and parole manpower.

A fall street fair, to provide fun for citizens, but also to offer a possible dental mobile unit, inoculations, and booths so that school groups, churches and other organizations could raise money.

A transportation grant, since McIntyre said the more common modes of public or nonprofit transportation in the southeast region dont seem to reach the tiny, hilly town located off of Highway 8.

Helping with the centers fundraising efforts to eventually buy the facility theyre renting.

Henry asked how much they needed for a down payment. McIntyre said about $6,000 or $7,000.

We planned on doing a trivia night as a fundraiser, and we hoped to have a fundraiser for the alums at the West County all-school reunion, but COVID dashed that, she said. We have a lot of former students who have left the West County School District and gone on to bigger and better things around the world, and we wonder if they might like to make a contribution to their hometown to make it better.

Henry said the board would definitely talk it over. We do appreciate the work youre doing, he said. A lot of people benefit from it.

The board also:

Introduced the new city marshal, Greg Northrup of Frankclay

Discussed the ongoing process of moving city court to the county, as many other municipalities have done to cut costs.

Discussed the importance of maintaining the city equipment, particularly the trucks and zero-turn lawnmower.

Heard a mobile home/tiny house request, which will be tabled until the next meeting pending Brooks' review of the property and the associated sewer and water hookups needed.

Approved a bid for two backhoe tires at $294 each from R&K Tire in Mineral Point.

Heard a citizen concerned about the conditions of the dog pound, which Henry said would be seen to immediately.

Set the next meeting for 6 p.m. Oct. 26, at Leadwood City Hall.

Sarah Haas is the assistant editor for the Daily Journal. She can be reached at 573-518-3617 or at shaas@dailyjournalonline.com.

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A retired British expat who resides in Luxembourg is set to make a small fortune at an auction, thanks to the first edition Harry Potter book he owns. The Luxembourg resident had bought the Harry Potter book authored by JK Rowling more than 20 years ago to help his children learn English.

He recently discovered that the Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone book that was sitting on his bookshelf for over 20 years could reportedly earn him as much as 50,000 pounds (Rs 48 lakh, approximately).

The retired British expat who worked in the aviation sector, said: I knew there had been a few first editions sold recently and Hansons was featured on the BBC website so, just to be safe, I checked the criteria. I did not think mine would be valuable as it was certainly not purchased when first published.

The hardcover copy of the Harry Potter book is rare as only about 500 copies of those were printed. The first edition copy of the Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, which will be auctioned at the Hansons Staffordshire Library Auction on October 13 is expected to fetch about 30,000 pounds, but the value may go up to 50,000 pounds due to its astonishingly good condition.

Jim Spencer, the book expert at Hansons, said: True first issues are seriously scarce. Only 500 were printed, 300 of which were sent to schools and libraries. This is extra rare because it is one of the remaining 200... This new copy deserves to do really well because it is in astonishingly good condition.

Hansons Auctioneers say there are many ways to identify a genuine first edition Harry Potter book that was published by Bloomsbury in 1997. One thing to look out for is the duplication of 1 wand on page 53, the other is the issue number, which will read: 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 in the original copy.
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, attorneys at Hilliard Shadowen LLP and Hilliard Martinez Gonzales LLP filed a petition with the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights to hold the United States accountable for the cross-border killings of numerous Mexican citizens. The Petitioners are the families of victims killed by United States Border Patrol agents along the nation's southern border. Victims include 15-year-old Sergio Hernandez, whose killing sparked a Supreme Court battle; Jose Antonio Elena Rodriguez, a 16-year-old who was shot in the back 10 times; a man who was having a picnic with his wife and daughters when he was shot by Border Patrol agents from an airboat in the Rio Grande; and 3 others.

The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR), located in Washington, D.C., is the human-rights arm of the Organization of American States (OAS), created in 1959 "to promote and protect human rights in the American hemisphere." The United States ratified the OAS charter in 1948 and is bound to uphold its treaty obligations, including the American Declaration of the Rights and Duties of Man, which prohibits the arbitrary taking of life.



The petition alleges that U.S. Border Patrol agents systematically engage in extrajudicial killings of Mexican citizens along the U.S.  Mexico border.

The Border Patrol's "Rocking Policy" (shooting to kill in the absence of imminent threat), and the government's failure to adequately and timely investigate the shootings violate fundamental international law.

The petition also alleges that the U.S. violated international law by refusing to allow the families to obtain judicial review of these killings in U.S. courts. This past February the Supreme Court refused to allow the family of Sergio Hernandez to get judicial review by suing the individual border patrol agent. The courts had previously prohibited the families from directly suing the U.S. itself, asserting sovereign immunity to those claims.

Over 100 individuals have been killed directly by CBP agents or died in CBP custody in the last ten years alone.

This bombshell international lawsuit comes at a time of great crisis at the U.S-Mexico border, as President Donald Trump increases border security and personnel and continues a trend of militarizing the border.

The families of slain civilians and the entire Mexican nation look to the Commission to shine much needed light on the Border Patrol's toxic culture of racism, violence, and lack of oversight and accountability.

Counsel for the Petitioners, Nicholas Shadowen, said: "These tragic cases are yet another series of police killings in America that have gone largely unnoticed and wholly unredressed. The United States must be held accountable; there must be police reform in this country; and it must happen now."

"If the U.S. judicial system is so callous and broken that it disregards the lives of these innocent victims and flatly denies any reparations or remedies, then we will stand with these families and take their fight to a Court that recognizes and promotes the value of human life."

Counsel Robert Hilliard said "When the law of the land is that a U.S. law enforcement officer, while on U.S. soil, may shoot and kill an unarmed, unthreatening child, unchecked by the U.S. civil justice system, the arch of the moral universe snaps, no longer able to bend towards justice. The courage of the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's dissenting words resonate: "I resist the conclusion that 'nothing' is the answer required in this case." We call on this Commission to declare and find a violation of international law. What matters is the life wrongly taken, and the immensity of death."

The U.S. judicial system has failed the families whose loved ones have been killed by Border Patrol agents. The petition seeks justice and redress for the families, to press the federal government to acknowledge and reform its unlawful border policies, and to force the United States to comply with its obligations under international law.

ABOUT HMG http://www.hmglawfirm.com/

Hilliard Martinez Gonzales LLP (HMG) specializes in personal injury, mass torts, product liability, commercial and business litigation. For 35 years we have been trying cases all over the United States, exclusively on behalf of plaintiffs. Year after year, obtaining record verdicts and unparalleled settlements, our law firm proudly stands with those who have been harmed and seek justice.





ABOUT HS: https://hilliardshadowenlaw.com

Hilliard Shadowen LLP specializes in complex cases involving economic and social justice. The firm's team of experienced attorneys has steered some of the decade's landmark litigation, including the leading pharmaceutical antitrust cases and other milestone cases such as Hernandez v. Mesa, Staley v. Gilead, and the Visa/Mastercard merchant fee litigation.

CONTACT: [email protected]

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Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday called for sustained efforts by all parties to enhance biodiversity conservation and global environmental governance.



Xi made the call at the United Nations Summit on Biodiversity, noting that "the loss of biodiversity and the degradation of the ecosystem pose a major risk to human survival and development."

"We need to take up our lofty responsibility for the entire human civilization, and we need to respect nature, follow its laws and protect it," Xi said.

He stressed upholding multilateralism and building synergy for global governance on the environment, noting that faced with global environmental risks, countries "share a common stake" and form "a community with a shared future."

"Unilateralism finds no support; cooperation is the right way forward," he said. "We must firmly safeguard the UN-centered international system and uphold the sanctity and authority of international rules so as to enhance global governance on the environment."

At a time when COVID-19 has wreaked havoc on economic and social development globally, Xi emphasized the need to "have our eyes on the long run" and "stay the course for green, inclusive and sustainable development."

The Chinese president also stressed upholding the principle of "common but differentiated responsibilities" for developed and developing countries in tackling the challenges to the environment.

Developing countries' concerns over funding, technology and capacity building need to be accommodated, he said.

In his address, Xi also shared with the world China's experience of advancing biodiversity governance and ecological progress.

"China has always prioritized ecological progress and embedded it in every dimension and phase of its economic and social development," said Xi, adding that the country has also rolled out strong policies and actions for preserving biodiversity and protecting the ecosystems.

For the last 10 years, China has topped the world in forest resource increase, with more than 70 million hectares of land afforested, he noted.

Pledging that China will adopt even more forceful policies and measures on environmental protection, Xi reaffirmed the country's goal to peak carbon dioxide emissions before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2060.

Before concluding his address, Xi extended invitations to the 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity, scheduled to be hosted by China next year in the city of Kunming.

"I look forward to the adoption of a comprehensive, balanced, ambitious and implementable framework of action," he said.
Military spouses whose families are getting ready to move to civilian life will soon have the chance to take in-person, career-focused transition classes designed for them and scheduled at convenient times, officials announced this week.

Leaders with the Pentagon's transition assistance program have long said that military spouses are encouraged to attend the sessions, which include classes on civilian career help for service members, financial guidance and information on how to use the Department of Veteran Affairs and what to expect in the form of post-military benefits.

Read Next: It's Official: The ACFT Is Now the Army's Fitness Test of Record

But those classes are offered to spouses on a space-available basis, do not include childcare and are typically held during normal working hours. While about 44% of spouses surveyed said they would attend the Transition Assistance Program if it was convenient and offered information they found useful, only 7% said they had attended any portion, according to the Department of Labor, which administers elements of the program.

A new TAP addition offered by DOL seeks to address that problem. Dubbed Transition Employment Assistance for Military Spouses, or TEAMS, it includes four courses designed to be delivered both virtually and in-person. They are: "Your Next Move;" "Career Credentials: How Important Are They?;" Mastering Resume Essentials;" and "Marketing Me: Job Search Tactics & Networking."

The classes will be first offered on a limited basis, with virtual sessions for all four in late October scattered throughout morning, afternoon and evening time slots in Eastern time. Pilot in-person classes are being offered in early October at Fort Hood, Texas and Fort Gordon, Georgia. Classes are expected to be held nationwide in early 2021, according to a release.

Funding for the classes was included in DOL's fiscal 2020 budget. The classes do not include childcare.

Spouses can register for the virtual training's on DOL's website. Those who want to attend in person at Fort Hood or Fort Gordon should contact their local transition assistance office.

Although data is not available for the rate at which former military spouses experience unemployment, the rate among current military spouses is estimated between 16% and 24%, depending on the report.

A program administered by the Defense Department, known as Spouse Education and Career Opportunities, offers career training, job placement assistance and, depending on the rank of the service member, money for education.

But access to those services largely ends when the family leaves the military. The DOL programming looks to give spouses an off-ramp into a post-military career.

"Military spouses make great sacrifices for our country. As a nation, we should lessen those burdens when we can, including in the workplace," Secretary of Labor Eugene Scalia said in a release. "The TEAMS initiative will equip military spouses with skills they can use to participate more fully in our nation's economy even as they shoulder the challenges of life in a military family."

-- Amy Bushatz can be reached at amy.bushatz@military.com.

Related: Military Transition Assistance Program Overview
Amid the widespread outrage over the alleged gang-rape and murder of a Dalit teen from Hathras in Uttar Pradesh, an yet another scheduled caste woman died in Balrampur district of the state while being rushed to a hospital after her rape by two youths.

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Balrampur Superintendent of Police Dev Ranjan Verma said the incident happened in the Gaisari area of the district, where a 22-year-old Dalit woman, working in a private firm, failed to return home in time on Tuesday evening, prompting her parents to start looking for her.

The woman's parents said she did not respond to calls on her mobile phone, triggering panic among family members, the police said.

The woman, however, returned home shortly later in an autorickshaw with an intravascular cannula, medically known as Vigo and used for administering injection, glucose or other fluids in the body, inserted in her hand, the police said, quoting her parents.

The girl looked dazed and in a serious condition, prompting her parents to rush her to a nearby hospital, but she died on the way, said the SP.

When the matter was reported to the police from the hospital, the parents alleged that their daughter was gang-raped, SP Verma said.

Acting on the parent's complaint, police identified the accused as Shahid and Sahil and arrested them, the SP said.

Reacting to the incident, Samajwadi Party supremo Akhilesh Yadav said, "After Hathras, now a daughter was harassed and gang-raped in Balrampur. The victim died in serious condition. Condolences!"



"The BJP government should commit no laxity in this case as was done in Hathras and arrest the accused immediately," he added with a hashtag#Balrampur... #NoMoreBJP" on his Tweeter handle.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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We are here to look, really, to this alliance for guidance, as well as we look at reforming our justice system here in the county. We want to know what the new and best approaches are, she said.
Dysarts service delivery review found $700,000 the municipality could make by tackling issues such as short-term rentals, a new strategic plan and recreational facilities.

The Toronto-based consulting firm, StrategyCorp, presented to council Sept. 25, outlining seven major policy areas the municipality could improve on. The review, paid for by a $75,000 provincial grant, also makes comparisons and recommendations for how the municipality could improve on strategic customer service, landfills, sewage treatment and digitizing the roads department.

Mayor Andrea Roberts said it was a big undertaking.

Its no longer good enough in the municipal world  and in other businesses really  to say this is how were always done it, so this is the way well continue to do it, Roberts said. Theres something proactive and great about not being afraid to look inward.

StrategyCorps recommendations are wide-ranging. The company found more than 50 potential improvements, though only flagged seven as high priority, which they focused on at the meeting.

StrategyCorp principal John Matheson said the $700,000 is a conservative estimate and the figure could be much greater. He added the report was not to criticize.

No sense were saying, Oh, its shocking this hasnt been done already, Matheson said. In a lot of cases, the maturation of the opportunities has only happened in fairly recent times  Really valuable things you can do to take the organization to the next level.

The firm recommended Dysart create a new strategic plan. Manager Chris Salloum said Dysart lacks a true north star document which would help improve co-operation and efficiency.

The review comes at the same time StrategyCorp is also working on a shared services delivery review across the County. Deputy Mayor Patrick Kennedy said the two reports should work in conjunction.

With the County also doing the shared services, wed just incorporate those things (in that report) that will help us become even better, Kennedy said. A blend of both reports will end up serving the community a lot better.

Other key recommendations from Dysarts review included:

 Creating service level standards for customer service across the organization.

 Increased enforcement of proper waste disposal, including increased bag overage fees.

 Centralizing construction and demolition at one landfill.

 Providing a unified vision for a new joint-recreation facility and canvas to find potential partners.

 Implementing long-term planning for Dysarts sewage treatment plant.

 Digitizing more of the roads department operations.

As for short-term rentals, StrategyCorp reviewed what other municipalities are doing and recommended Dysart either implement a licencing system, an accommodations tax, or both.

Roberts said with every municipality in the County examining the issue, it would be good to make the systems as similar as possible.

A lot of places have figured it out, Roberts said. Its time for us to figure out what works for us.

Council voted to receive the report as information. Matheson said he expects municipal staff to bring forward separate reports addressing each of the key priorities.

This is a menu of ideas for you to use over time, he said. It will be up to you what makes the most sense.
The Agbotui and allied families of Dzelukope in the Volta Region have confirmed Saturday, October, 24, for the funeral and burial of Madam Victoria Agbotui, the mother of former President Jerry John Rawlings.



A statement issued by Mr Kobina Andoh Amoakwa, the Communications Director, Office of the former President, copied to the Ghana News Agency, said there would be a burial service at the Forecourt of the State House in Accra, after, which the body would be conveyed to Dzelukope in the Volta Region for interment.



It noted that former President Rawlings, the Agbotui, and allied families had been receiving visitors and messages of commiseration, following the demise of Madam Agbotui, last Thursday, September 25.



The statement said on Wednesday, a large Government delegation led by Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, called on the bereaved family to commiserate with them over the loss.



Vice-President Bawumia in sympathising with the former President noted that though he knew him as a tough man, the loss of a mother was a difficult situation for every offspring.



The Vice-President who represented the President was accompanied by Madam Frema Osei Opare, the Chief of Staff; Madam Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration; Mr Ken Ofori Atta, Finance Minister; Mr John Peter Amewu, Energy Minister; and Mr Pius Hadzide, a Deputy Minister for Information.



Others are; Mr Perry Okudjeto, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports, Madam Elizabeth Sackey, Deputy Greater Accra Regional Minister, Mr Anthony Karbo, Deputy Minister for Roads and Highways, and Mr Sammy Awuku, New Patriotic Party (NPP) National Organiser, among a host of other senior officials.



The statement said earlier on Friday, September 25, a high-powered delegation from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) led by the Partys flagbearer, former President John Dramani Mahama, called on the former President Rawlings and his family to commiserate with them over the loss of Madam Agbotui.

Former President Mahama in paying tribute to Madam Agbotui said, Mama was always available to give wise counsel whenever the opportunity availed itself.



He said though Mama was a centenarian, she was the kind of person one would assume would live forever.



Members of the NDC delegation included; Alhaji Mahama Iddrisu, Vice Chairman of the NDC Council of Elders, Mr Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, National Chairman, Mr Johnson Asiedu Nketia, General Secretary, national executives and other leading members of the Party.



It said the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Nuhu Sharabutu accompanied by a delegation of Muslim Chiefs also called on the former President on Tuesday.



Sheikh Sharabatu in mourning the loss of Madam Agbotui said the loss reminded him of the significant contributions his son, former President Rawlings had made to the development and unity not only of the Muslim community but the country at large.



The Chief Imam in consoling the bereaved said Madam Agbotui was in a good place and urged the family to remain strong.



On Monday, a delegation from the NDC parliamentary caucus led by Mr Haruna Iddrisu, the Minority Leader, and Mr Alban Bagbin, the Second Deputy Speaker also called on the former President and his family to express their condolences.



Madam Imane Quaadil, the Moroccan Ambassador to Ghana, also called on the former President and his family on Wednesday to express the condolences of the Kingdom of Morocco to the bereaved family.



Mr Daniel Abodakpi, Stoolfather of Anlo State, expressed the gratitude of the former President and his family for the show of solidarity from the Kingdom of Morocco and gave the ambassador details of the funeral.

Source: GNA









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JUSTICE Minister Helen McEntee has set out the issues that a special committee on assisted dying will would be asked to consider.

There are medical, ethical and moral considerations involved, as well as criminal justice and Constitutional issues, she said.

The committee would have to look to developing and policing safeguards, needed to ensure that a person is not subjected to any pressure by any third parties, she said.

It would also have to look at unintended consequences that might create any adverse impact on vulnerable, many of whom did not want to be a burden, as the High Court had pointed out.

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The committee should also look at safeguards in the regulatory regimes in Switzerland, the Netherlands and US states such as Washington and Oregon which have legislated for assisted dying, she said.

It could look at what role or legal rights a family member should have, along with the legal profession, or those with a function under law in supporting decision-making, she said.

There were also issues of a Constitutional nature that might arise, she said, raising the distant prospect of a potential future referendum.

But the Minister was told that the process of legalising assisted dying was being regrettably delayed by the Governments decision to refer the matter to a Dail committee for the next twelve months.

That was the assertion of People Before Profit TD Gino Kenny as he introduced the Dying with Dignity Bill in the Dail on Thursday night.

This debate is extremely difficult for everybody, regardless of what your views are. All voices should be taken into account, Mr Kenny said.

But the most important voice should be that of the person in an irredeemable situation where they are facing unbearable pain in terminal illness, he said.

They should have that choice. We should hear their voice and not vilify them, he said. His party also wanted greater resources for hospice and palliative care, but there is no conflict, he said, adding that it was irresponsible to conflate suicide and assisted dying.

His party colleague, PBP TD Richard Boyd Barrett, said he regretted that a Government counter-motion referred to assisted suicide, which had very different connotations.

The proposal instead involved people who had extreme pain which would only get progressively worse and end in death.

To deny them that right is to torture them, said Mr Boyd Barrett. What right has anybody to deny to anybody else the right to determine how that life ends, when it is bound to end.

He said he had thought Ireland had moved past moral codes that were imposed on individuals.

He said the Supreme Court had made clear in 2015 that the Oireachtas had the power to legislate. Every moment of delay means that a small number of people may suffer unnecessarily.

The Justice Minister said the Supreme Court in its judgment in the Marie Fleming case on 29 April 2013 had said there was no Constitutional right to suicide, or to end ones life at a time of ones choosing.

There was also the issue of safeguarding a person nearing the end of life and to protect them against possible abuse, she said.

New Zealand is to hold a referendum on assisted dying in a fortnights time.
In the first two minutes of Netflixs hit reality show Indian Matchmaking, Sima Taparia, a Mumbai-based matchmaker, declares, In India, we dont say arranged marriage. There is marriage and then love marriage. A large majority of the countrys population that opts to be set up is a testimony to the popularity of this timeless tradition.

The eight binge-worthy episodes by Oscar-nominated documentary filmmaker Smriti Mundhra follows Taparia on her quest to find suitable spouses for hopeful singles of Indian descent from around the world. Reviews of the show have been polarized  sparking debates on patriarchy, colorism, gender stereotypes and regressive mentalities, and also bringing this centuries-old practice under a scanner.

Does the system have a lot of growing up to do? Ample. But does that automatically mean everyone associated with an arranged marriage is scathed, pursuing it only under pressure? Such has been the general  and sometimes unfair  assumption. Because of my Indian heritage, I have been on the receiving end of questions like Do you have to marry someone youve never met? and Will your parents choose your husband? by my non-South Asian friends in the past.

Aparna Shewakramani, a 35-year-old Houston-based lawyer and luxury travel consultant, one of the participants on the show, adds: A lot of women outside the South Asian diaspora messaged me on Instagram to say that up until they saw Indian Matchmaking, they thought that an arranged marriage meant a forced one.

Destination: Altar

Shewakramani, who is currently single, said that while the definition is different for everyone, her bottom line in seeking this route was straightforward: to find a partner who was as serious about commitment as she was. She first sought the services of a matchmaker when she was 27.

I remember paying $400 just to have a 30-minute conversation with this U.S.-based matchmaker, she said. She did not think I needed her services at the time, but obviously I was open to the concept.

Not unlike her, there are others  well-educated, independent and successful Indian women  who view arranged marriage as a means to an end: to navigate the minefield of modern dating that involves more heartache, disappointment and swiping than commitment.

The human need to find love has remained unchanged over time, said Anju Nanda, a 53-year-old culinary artist in Nashik, India. Her husband of 30 years, Chandan Nanda, an entrepreneur, was a match suggested by a rishta auntie (a local matchmaker) from her hometown, Amritsar. Using your parents social network or a matchmaker need not be the last resort just because you are modern, she said. Its simply another way.

The rationale is echoed by Anokhi Shah, 28, a Mumbai-born public relations consultant in Antwerp, Belgium. She married Swapnil Bhansali, an Antwerp-based diamond trader, this year after being introduced by their respective aunts in March 2019.

Love or arranged marriages are just terminologies, she said. Does it matter if you find happiness in the end? I was always open to every avenue to find my life partner. The common connections between the two worked in Shahs favor. It definitely adds a layer of security, she said. You have access to this persons family background, values and lifestyle. Someone you know can vouch for them.

It also helped that they were able to broach important subjects  as you need to with the person you will share your hopes, dreams and bank account with, and raise children with  without tiptoeing around them. These are conversations youd typically have after years of dating, Shah said. But since you are both in it with the same intention, you can be honest from the get-go.

Two Sides of a Coin

So is romance replaced with rationality? Anoli Udani, 32-year-old fashion designer raised in Ahmedabad, India, doesnt think so. In 2016 Udani met her husband, Arjun Udani, a health care and pharmaceutical entrepreneur who lives between Mumbai, Dubai and Lagos, through a distant aunt who is also a matchmaker.

We had a first date, traveled together during our courtship, and he even proposed, Udani said. No part of our love story was diluted just because we were introduced formally. She added: Everyone wants the serendipitous meet-cute. But if you are self-employed or live in a small town, the opportunities to meet someone new can be limited. Its not very different from broadening your search through your friend circle or a dating app.

In this case, filtered profiles are replaced with equally precise biodata, and families need to swipe right, too. Despite success stories, the framework is far from perfect. For every progressive mindset, there is a peculiar criterion. Cue the excessive focus on fair, tall, slim and trim on Indian Matchmaking. Appearance, education, age, community, family background and horoscopes play no minor role in narrowing down prospects either. Assessments like too stubborn or too picky, and unsolicited advice on adjustment and compromise are liberally directed toward women.

The process had its highs and lows, Udani said. There was a societal expectation for me to get married when I turned 25. But my parents had a more realistic and modern view that aligned with mine.

Means to an End

The proverbial hunt did not overshadow every other aspect of Udanis life. It was one of the many focuses of my life, not the only one, she said. Yes, there were times when I met two suitors in one week. But also periods when I did not meet anyone for, say, nine months. She attests to having found clarity in what she sought from a life partner along the way.

Instead of spontaneous decisions disguised as leaps of faith, Nanda is in favor of taking the plunge only when youre truly ready. She was 24 when she got married, an age deemed late by society standards three decades ago. The couple had a yearlong courtship, another bold move for their time.

Success boils down to love, mutual respect and regard for the institution of marriage, Nanda said. Any relationship can go south if you dont work to make it work. How you met will be of little consequence then.

Praachi Raniwala@c.2020 The New York Times Company
SuperValu Knocklyon has apologised for "any embarrassment" they may have caused to Panto legend Twink after banning her pet parrot from their store.

A spokesperson for the supermarket said: SuperValu Knocklyon would like to apologise for any confusion regarding a cherished customer at our store, Adele King.

"We wish to make clear that Ms King continues to be welcome at our store and that yesterdays news coverage in relation to her pet cockatiel came about due to the store manager responding to a query to clarify our policy in relation to letting animals in-store.

"The intention was not to cause any embarrassment to Ms King, who is a long standing and much loved customer by the Knocklyon staff, we apologise for any offence caused.

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Whatsapp Twink with her pet cockatoo Timerberlake, affectionately known as Timby

SuperValu Knocklyon manager Owen Doyle previously told the Irish Sun that unfortunately, Twinks cockatoo Timerberlake, affectionately known as Timby, isnt welcome in his Dublin store.

The panto icon had been previously spotted by locals casually shopping with the bird on her shoulder.

He stressed that there is no bad blood between him and Twink, aka Adele King, but the store has a no-animal policy in place.

"Aside from guide dogs, there are no animals allowed in this store and we are definitely not making an exception for Twink, he told the publication.

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"At the end of the day, this is a fresh food and fruit market. Its not a place we encourage anybody to bring pets into - that includes parrots, as well as cats.

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"There are no animals of any descriptions allowed in aside from guide dogs."

The Supervalu manager said that when restrictions ease that hopefully himself, Twink and the parrot will go for a drink together and have a laugh about this.

Earlier this month the panto star shocked fellow SuperValu shoppers as she strutted around the store wearing a high-end visor with Timby perched on her shoulder.

Twinks good friend and former co-star Joe Rooney condemned the move to ban Twinks parrot from supermarkets, saying: "Twink is a national treasure in Ireland, and if she wants to bring her parrot into a shop, she should be allowed.

"I cant think of any woman who has done more for this country than Twink. Shes the Queen of Ireland and should be treated like royalty," he told the Irish Sun.
Kyiv expresses protest to Minsk over participation of Crimean occupational authorities' rep in forum of regions of Belarus and Russia

The Minister-Counselor of the Belarusian Embassy in Ukraine was invited on October 1 to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine to give explanations in connection with participation in the VII Forum of the Regions of Belarus and the Russian Federation in the format of a videoconference by the representative of the Russian occupation administration Vladimir Konstantinov.

"Ukraine considers unacceptable such unfriendly steps of the Belarusian side, which call into question the belonging of Crimea and Sevastopol, temporarily occupied by Russia, to Ukraine," the website of the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said on Thursday.
The ringleaders of a Romanian 'Mission Impossible' criminal network who stole 3.3million of 'irreplaceable' books have today been jailed for more than 23 years.

Gavril Popinciuc, 45, and Cristian Ungureanu, 41, plotted raids which involved cutting holes in roofs and skylights of warehouses, abseiling down to avoid sensors that would have set off alarms.

Their most prominent raid was a heist during which 'irreplaceable' rare books worth more than 2million were stolen from a west London depot in 2017.

Seven defendants were the first of 12 men to be sentenced at west London's Kingston Crown Court, having pleaded guilty to either conspiracy to commit burglaries, conspiracy to conceal and transfer criminal property, or both.

Gavril Popinciuc, 45, the 'brains' and Cristian Ungureanu, 41, the 'brawn', plotted raids that involved cutting holes in roofs and skylights of warehouses, abseiling down to avoid sensors that would have set off alarms

Editions of works by Sir Isaac Newton and the Italian astronomer Galileo were among 170 books stolen from the warehouse during the five-hour operation, in which two members of the gang abseiled from the roof, managing to avoid setting off sensor-based alarms.

They were found buried under a house in rural Romania last month.

Graphic, above, shows how the gang pulled off their 'Mission: Impossible'-style heist

Before they were sentenced, Judge Jonathan Davies told the court they were part of a 'criminal network' that conducted a series of 'serious, professional crimes originating in Romania'.

Judge Davies said 'they each played their part' and 'took risks with their eyes open' due to the financial reward.

He added: 'Each of the burglaries was a carefully planned operation carried out with Mission Impossible skill.'

He rejected their pleas for more lenient sentences, saying the risk of prison 'had to have occurred to you'.

Twelve 'high-value and well-planned' raids were committed by the 'sophisticated' network in the UK between December 2016 and April 2019, with most targeting premises holding hundreds of expensive and portable items such as smartphones, tablets and laptops, the court was told.

Among their raids was the 'deliberate targeting' of customs clearing centre Frontier Forwarding in Feltham on January 29 2017, inside which were works of 'immense cultural significance' due to be shipped to the US for a specialist book auction.

They belonged to three book dealers, two Italian and one German, and had a combined insurance value of about 2 million.

Hundreds of rare books worth millions of pounds were stolen in a sophisticated heist by the crime gang - who also carried out 11 other raids, Kingston Crown Court was told. Pictured: The books were found in a hidden underground compartment

Judge Davies said he believed the books were 'clearly targeted' and the planning was 'very careful'.

The lengthiest sentence of five years and nine months was handed to Popinciuc, 45, who had an 'overseeing and controlling role' in the gang.

Ungureanu, 41, a father of two sons, who was 'present at the scene of burglaries' and held a 'leading role' within the crime network, was sentenced to five years and one month.

His younger brother, Ilie Ungureanu, 37, who oversaw the transportation of the books out of the United Kingdom, was jailed for three years and nine months.

Victor Opariuc, 29, one of the men who abseiled into the warehouse and brought 'crucial skills' to the operation, was sentenced to three years and seven months.

Narcis Popescu, 34, who rented a house in Balham, south London, where the books were stored, was jailed for four years and two months.

Also sentenced in the afternoon were Marian Albu, 41, from Harrow in west London, and Traian Mihulca, 32, who were both handed four years.

Eleven other raids, including several using the same method of abseiling through the roof, were carried out by the group, with the value of goods stolen in those burglaries estimated by Scotland Yard at around 2 million.

In one raid on a warehouse in Reading in March 2017, about 500 MacBook computers, 520 iPhones, 240 Samsung tablets and 400 iPads were stolen, with the value of the goods estimated at 340,000.

The other five gang members will be sentenced tomorrow morning.
Toni Morrison speaks at PEN America's World Voices literary festival in 2006. (PEN America)

On Sunday, free speech organization PEN America sent a California school district a letter.

"We write to encourage the Colton Joint Unified Board of Education to reverse its recent decision to remove the renowned 'The Bluest Eye' by Nobel and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Toni Morrison from its core and extended reading list for upper-level AP English Literature classes," the letter stated.

"The decision to remove this book is educationally and constitutionally unsound. We urge you to reinstate the book as soon as possible."

Within an hour, the president of the board of the district, in San Bernardino County, responded that "The Bluest Eye" was, in fact, no longer banned. After being removed from the reading list in February to some public consternation, it had been quietly reinstated during an August board meeting.

"In preparing for this decision, our approach was to personally reach out directly to those who are most impacted by it, our teachers and families," school board spokeswoman Katie Orloff wrote The Times in an email. "For us this issue also involved improving our processes and procedures for book selection ... as well as the process for parents opting their students out and expanding their representation in the book selection committee."

PEN quickly reversed its own plan to publish the open letter, which was set for Monday to mark the beginning of Banned Books Week.

The organization recognizes the issue each year with a variety of programming, including book drives, readings, appearances, petitions and events.

Morrison's 1970 novel frequently draws controversy for its content, including rape and incest, and has been banned in states including Colorado and North Carolina  despite being part of the body of work that earned the author the Nobel Prize in Literature.

Back in February, four out of seven Colton school board members voted to remove "The Bluest Eye" from the district's reading list. Two members opposed the motion and one member abstained.

Story continues

The San Bernardino Sun reported Morrison's novel was the only book removed from a district list of almost 500 works of literature. District officials at the time could not remember another instance of such a removal, according to the Sun.

Parents, teachers and students throughout the district deluged the board with emails and comments both opposing and advocating for the book.

On Aug. 20, the Colton school board held a regular (albeit virtual) meeting that was quickly overtaken by the book debate. Members listened to almost an hours worth of public comments and eventually voted to reinstate "The Bluest Eye," six months after its removal. Three board members reversed their votes from February: President Patt Haro, Frank Ibarra and Israel Fuentes. Five members voted to put the book back on the reading list. Two opposed the motion.

A decision to remove a book, particularly a Toni Morrison book, one of the prominent Black authors in American literature  regardless of the individual motivation of those parents, which I think was valid  the message that that decision sends to the Black community within our school district was one that I just couldn't support, Colton School Board Vice President Dan Flores told The Times.

Although the change caught PEN by surprise, Flores clarified that the board hadn't intended to keep the reversal under wraps. In fact, both the meeting minutes and a video of the meeting (recorded over Zoom because of the COVID-19 pandemic) are publicly available online. Local reporters who had written about the original ban simply hadn't covered its reversal.

"We're very pleased that the school board reversed their decision," James Tager, PEN's deputy director of free expression research and policy, told The Times. "It shows that it's never too late to reverse a book ban, [and] it's never too late to reverse a bad decision.

"And it's a demonstration that these concerns are taken seriously and that there is utility to raising your voice. I hope it sends a message to convince parents, teachers, librarians across the country that there's a point and a purpose to expressing opposition to book bans anywhere they happen."

On the August Zoom call, some community members suggested that teachers had asked the local press to cover the removal.

To call the media so you could all drag these people through the [mud] to prove your point and be the loud voice  does that make your opinions correct? parent Nicole Littlefield asked in August. Need I remind you who puts you in those seats you hold?

Others argued the ban should stay. I could not continue to read this book, as its contents overwhelmed me and compromised my morals and beliefs, former student Alexis Nicols said at the meeting. I have always been taught that when participating in something, always keep in mind: if your mom, dad or God was standing next to you, would you continue to participate in that activity?

The Bluest Eye tells the story of Pecola Breedlove, an 11-year-old Black girl in Ohio who prays every day for the blond hair and blue eyes that she believes will make her beautiful.

Being a minority in both caste and class, we moved about anyway on the hem of life, struggling to consolidate our weaknesses and hang on, Morrison, who died in in 2019, wrote in the novel. Or to creep singly up into the major folds of the garment.

Pecola is raped and impregnated by her father, developments that have sparked controversy before. The novel made the American Library Assn.s "Top 10 Most Challenged Books" list in 2006, 2013 and 2014; on Monday the association announced "The Bluest Eye" was on its combined list for the past decade.

The No. 2 most-challenged novel: "The Bluest Eye" by Toni Morrison. Complaints against Morrison's novel: "Offensive language, sexually explicit, unsuited to age group and violence." (Random House / Guillermo Arias / Associated Press)

The Colton district's initial removal of the novel had deprived students of an important teaching tool and raised constitutional concerns, effectively resulting in censorship, Tager said: We've seen other examples around the country where Morrison's books have been singled out for banning in ways that raised the obvious inference that it was selected, in part, because it grapples with the uncomfortable realities of race and racism in America."

In particular, PEN's letter cites the 1982 case of Board of Education vs. Pico, in which the Supreme Court ruled that the First Amendment limits the discretion of school boards to remove books from middle and high school libraries.

This is a theme that has been consistent throughout decades when it comes to book banning in the United States, Tager said. It's ingrained in one of the most important court decisions, and yet the problem remains: Books written by or featuring people of color are disproportionately likely to be challenged or banned.

Books by and about people of color offer Black students  who make up 6% of the Colton district  representation, as one student attested at the August meeting.

Being an African American girl transitioning into adulthood, I formed a special connection with this book, Grand Terrace High School senior Destany Lewis said. This was the first time I had read a book at school following a main character that looked like me.

Coltons African American Parent Advisory Committee also advocated for the reversal of the "Bluest Eye" ban.

We continue to tell our Black community that they matter, but our actions show otherwise, AAPAC commented at the August meeting. How can we support a marginalized community and build trusting relationships with them when actions represented from the school board go against the words of support echoed for the African American community?

Lewis said that only 13 out of 300 books, or roughly 4%, on Colton's approved list for English classes are written by Black authors.

Toni Morrison speaks at the PEN World Voices Festival in 2010. (Beowulf Sheehan / PEN American Center)

The reversal coincided with an ongoing movement for civil rights ignited by the police killing of George Floyd in May. Activists have subsequently pushed for more African American history taught in schools  and President Trump has pushed back.

In the political environment that we're in right now and the emphasis on Black Lives Matter and the Black community, it definitely elevates that conversation, brings it to the forefront, Flores said.

Unless we're lifting everybody up and providing an opportunity and voice and space [and] representation for everyone, then we're not really doing a great service to our students," he added.

The PEN letter cited an obvious alternative to censorship: an "opt out" process that gives any parent the right to object to a book on Colton's reading list and to select an alternative.

There is no educational or constitutional justification for allowing members of the community to dictate reading lists for students who are not their own children, read the letter.

Opting out allows parents to choose which books their children read without forcing those choices on others, Tager said. Otherwise, You are taking the option away from other parents who would want their kids to read those books."

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
(TNS)  The state is set to receive $3.9 million as part of a multistate lawsuit filed against Anthem following a massive data breach in 2014, Connecticut Attorney General William Tong announced Wednesday.Connecticut led a 43-state suit against the insurer, Tong said, and a settlement was recently reached between those states and the company.Connecticut led the multistate investigation into Anthems 2014 data breach, culminating today in a $39.5 million multistate settlement," Tong said, in a written statement. Nearly half of all of Connecticut residents were impacted by this massive breach, involving some of our most personal information, including Social Security numbers, phone numbers, healthcare identification numbers, addresses, and more.The breach, which began in February 2014, was disclosed publicly by the company about 12 months later, officials said. The data was accessed through phishing emails that included malware. The hackers were able to access much of the companys data that included personal information from Social Security numbers to home address for 78.8 million customers.Tongs office said that 1.7 million people in Connecticut were impacted by the data breach.Along with reaching a financial settlement, Anthem has agreed to a number of key provisions that range from not misrepresenting the security of individuals private information, increased security measures and three years of security audits.The company previously reached a class action settlement that created a $115 million fund for credit monitoring, cash payments and reimbursements for losses for impacted customers, Tongs office said. However, the time to file a claim has passed.Tong used the announced settlement to highlight his offices commitment to addressing data theft and online security. Tong was one of the first attorneys general in the country to establish a unit dedicated to privacy and data security.This settlement sends a strong message that state attorneys general will fight to protect consumer privacy and data security," he said.
Private security guards have been pulled from a Melbourne quarantine hotel and replaced by police after a health worker raised fears about infection control breaches.

Guards employed by services company Spotless were sent home from the Novotel in Southbank half way through their shift on Wednesday.

The state government took action after an anonymous health worker at the hotel tipped off a local newspaper with claims that infection control protocols were not being followed.

It comes just four months after the state's deadly second wave of coronavirus - which has killed more than 750 people - started with outbreaks at two hotels.

Victoria reported two more deaths and 15 infections overnight.

Private security guards have been pulled from a Melbourne quarantine hotel and replaced by police. Pictured: Cleaning staff at the hotel on Thursday

Guards employed by services company Spotless were sent home from the Novotel (pictured) in Southbank half way through their shift on Wednesday

'I can see it happening all over again,' the health worker told The Age.

'When international flights start again we [Victoria] will be screwed.'

The worker claimed some Spotless staff accidentally entered rooms containing infected patients, made mistakes putting on and taking off protective gear and complained they were not trained well enough.

'I'm concerned about the practice of training brand new staff in a positive environment,' she told the newspaper, calling it 'very tight and unsafe'.

'They stuff up because they've never done a dry run of removing their PPE safely.

'It's so frustrating. I'm always telling new staff to keep their distance or clean their work stations.'

Melbourne is not accepting international travellers but hotel quarantine is still being used to isolate coronavirus patients who cannot isolate at home.

The program was overhauled in July after the virus escaped from two quarantine hotels in May and June and spread rapidly around the city.

The deadly second wave sent Melbourne into Stage Four lockdown, with even regional Victoria suffering tight Stage Three restrictions.

Police and Protective Services Officers are seen in the foyer of the Novotel Melbourne South Wharf hotel in Melbourne on Thursday

A public inquiry into the blunder heard security guards did not socially distance or properly use protective gear.

Private security guards employed by Spotless have been used in the overhauled program as floor managers since July.

The scheme is overseen by the Department of Justice and Community Safety which contracted Alfred Health to provide clinical services.

Alfred Health then subcontracted Spotless to provide cleaning from mid June and customer service, bag checking and floor monitoring since early July.

Andrews must go - his toxic mix of arrogance and incompetence is destroying Victoria Opposition leader Michael O'Brien

It has now stopped providing all those services except the cleaning.

A Spotless spokesman told Daily Mail Australia that strict monitoring is in place to make sure staff adhere to infection control rules.

'At Spotless, infection control is paramount and all Spotless staff who work on the program complete mandatory PPE and infection prevention induction training and regular refresher training,' the spokesman said.

'One of many additional controls in place includes a requirement that staff must provide a daily declaration that they have not worked at another site in the 14 days prior to commencing their shift.

'Adherence to infection control requirements is routinely checked and verified by Spotless and Alfred Health.'

A justice department spokesman said Spotless floor monitors had been replaced by police on Wednesday.

The state government said nine hotel quarantine workers have caught the virus since July, including five Spotless employees. The government said they caught the virus away from the hotels.

Opposition leader Michael O'Brien slammed the government for continuing to use private security guards.

'This hopeless Labor government has learnt nothing from its hotel quarantine scandal that's already killed 781 Victorians,' he wrote.

'They're still using private guards not up to the task. Andrews must go - his toxic mix of arrogance and incompetence is destroying Victoria.'
BRUSSELS/FRANKFURT/PARIS (dpa-AFX) - German stocks edged higher on Thursday after U.S. House of Representative Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin both expressed hope for a breakthrough in partisan stimulus negotiations and the latest PMI data pointed to a gradual recovery in Europe's largest economy. IHS Markit's final Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) for manufacturing rose to 56.4 in September from 52.2 in August as output grew at the fastest pace in more than two years. However, that was lower than a flash estimate of 56.6. The benchmark DAX inched up 16 points, or 0.1 percent, to 12,778 after falling around half a percent in the previous session. MorphoSys AG edged down slightly. The biopharmaceutical company said that Jens Holstein has decided to step down as Chief Financial Officer and member of the company's Management Board, effective December 31, 2020. Bayer slumped 9 percent. The pharmaceutical and chemicals company has unveiled plans to cut jobs and exit non-strategic businesses or brands, as the coronavirus pandemic impacts its businesses. It expects to take a non-cash impairment charges on agricultural business due to low commodity prices. 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.
European Union leaders are meeting in Brussels for a two-day summit amid internal disputes that threaten the blocs coronavirus recovery package and weaken its ability to respond to crises involving neighboring Turkey and Belarus.

The first evening of the extraordinary summit that started on October 1 centered on tensions between Turkey and EU members Greece and Cyprus over maritime borders and energy resources in the eastern Mediterranean.

Relations with Ankara deteriorated in July when Turkey sent a research ship with a naval escort to work in contested waters, with Athens responding with war games backed by France.



Turkey and Greece have since agreed to resume long-stalled talks, and European Council President Charles Michel warned in his summit invitation that "all options remain on the table" if Ankara does not engage constructively in talks.



This could include tough economic sanctions against Turkey, but EU officials insist that the focus for now is on trying to find a diplomatic solution.

In a statement ahead of the summit on October 1, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said alliance members Greece and Turkey have agreed to set up a hot line to help stop tensions in the eastern Mediterranean from boiling over into military conflict.

"This safety mechanism can help to create the space for diplomatic efforts to address the underlying dispute," Stoltenberg said.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel reiterated her insistence on a diplomatic solution to the dispute.

"I will point out that our relation to Turkey is, of course, very complex," Merkel said, highlighting that the country is a NATO member and hosts a large number of refugees.

Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz, however, called for ending EU accession talks with Turkey and for imposing sanctions on the country.

"The European Union has to finally show [Turkish] President [Recep Tayyip] Erdogan clear red lines," he said upon arrival at the summit.

Erdogan nonetheless lashed out at the EU as the talks began, claiming the bloc had been taken "hostage by spoiled Greece and Cyprus.

Meanwhile, EU leaders confronted Cyprus, which has been blocking sanctions over the political crisis in Belarus, insisting the bloc must also agree to impose sanctions on Turkey over its controversial oil and gas exploration activities.



Reuters quoted a Cypriot diplomat as saying on October 1 that his country will stand firm at the meeting.



"To release the Belarus file, we have to have an agreement on our proposals as well," the diplomat said, adding that Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades met Charles Michel, who will chair the two-day summit, to lay out Nicosia's position.



"I imagine there will be a long discussion in the European Council. I'm not excluding that something might come out of it but, as of now, I wouldn't put money on having a happy outcome."



EU officials have drawn up a blacklist of 40 Belarus officials seen as responsible for a crackdown in the country following an election in August that the West and the opposition say was rigged.

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said he expected EU leaders to find a "principled solution" on Belarus at the summit.



The recent flare-up of fighting between Azerbaijani and Armenian forces over Azerbaijans breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh are also set to color the talks on Turkey.



French President Emmanuel Macron has accused Ankara of "reckless and dangerous" statements backing Baku, drawing a sharp response from Turkish officials.

European Union leaders are also expected to address an internal argument about tying access to EU funds to a member state's respect for the rule of law -- a proposal opposed by Hungary and Poland.



The leaders have already agreed in principle to build a 750 billion euro ($881 billion) economic recovery package, to be backed by a long-term EU budget totaling 1.8 trillion euros ($2.1 trillion).



In a September 30 report, which could have repercussions for negotiations on the distribution mechanism, the European Commission criticized judiciary reforms by the Hungarian and Polish governments as a "major source of controversy" and "serious concern."



The report about failings in the rule of law across the bloc also said that, in Hungary, the prosecution of high-level corruption "remains very limited," while the absence of legislation and transparency in the distribution of state advertising has opened the door for the government to "exert indirect political influence over the media."



Hungarian Justice Minister Judit Varga dismissed the report as "flawed" and "unfounded."



Warsaw and Budapest have repeatedly clashed with EU leaders over their moves to increase state control of the judiciary, media, nongovernmental organizations, and academia.

With reporting by AFP, dpa, and Reuters
The decision was taken in a state cabinet meeting after Environment Minister Aaditya Thackeray raised the issue, which was supported by ministers Jitendra Awhad and Aslam Shaikh among others

Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Wednesday directed the state Home department to withdraw cases registered against protesters in 2019 for opposing felling of trees for a proposed metro car shed in Aarey Colony, a prime green lung of the city. The decision was taken at the state cabinet meeting.

A tweet from the Chief Minister's office said Thackeray has directed the state home department to begin the process of withdrawing the cases.

The request for withdrawal of cases was made at the cabinet meeting by state Environment Minister Aaditya Thackeray, which was supported by deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar and other ministers.

"I thank all the cabinet colleagues of the MVA government for prioritising and realizing the importance of sustainable development and green governance and supporting such issues," Aaditya tweeted.

He said the protesters were citizens standing up for future of the planet.

"To hold them from stopping desired work was one thing but to press police charges was another. We can't have cases against those who stand up for environment and forests," he said in another tweet.

Uddhav Thackeray had announced withdrawal of cases against green activists last December, days after he took oath as chief minister.

Cases were registered after clashes broke out between the police and green activists opposing axing of trees by the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (MMRCL) in Aarey Colony last October for construction of a metro car shed for the Metro-3 line.

Police had booked at least 38 protesters under IPC sections 353 (assault or criminal force to deter public servant from discharging duty), 332 (voluntarily causing hurt to deter public servant from duty) and 143 (unlawful assembly).

Earlier in August, the chief minister had asked the Mumbai Metro and Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) officials to examine whether the proposed metro car shed can be shifted to Pahadi Goregaon area near Oshiwara.
Director Ram Gopal Varmas next film CoronaVirus will be released in cinema halls. The 58-year-old announced on his social media accounts that the film will be the first one to release post lockdown. Following the recent guidelines of the Unlock 5.0 by the government, theatres across the country are allowed to open doors from October 15. Cinemas halls in the country had been shut since mid-March.

CoronaVirus will revolve around members of the family who contract the deadly infection during the pandemic induced lockdown. The film entirely shot during India lockdown was earlier announced for an OTT release.

CORONAVIRUS film is about a family caught in the LOCKDOWN situation and has been entirely shot during LOCKDOWN and will be 1st film to release after LOCKDOWN is lifted on movie theatres #CoronaVirusFilm, wrote RGV via Twitter.

CORONAVIRUS film is about a family caught in the LOCKDOWN situation and has been entirely shot during LOCKDOWN and will be 1st film to release after LOCKDOWN is lifted on movie theatres #CoronaVirusFilm pic.twitter.com/lKzA6Vik04 Ram Gopal Varma (@RGVzoomin) October 1, 2020

The film directed by Agasthya Manju stars Brochevarevarura fame Srikanth Iyengar. Other members of the cast include Vamsee Chaganti, Dora Sai Teja, Sonia Akula and Dakkshi Guttikonda. The cinematography of the low budget thriller is by V Malharbhatt Joshi. CoronaVirus is jointly bankrolled by Ram Gopal Varma and Annapu Reddy Yella Reddy. The trailer of the CoronaVirus was launched in May by Varma, who has also written the film.

The Home Ministrys announcement on September 30 for the reopening of theatres has been welcomed by The Multiplex Association of India. In an exception, West Bengal could reopen cinema halls October 1 onwards.

Ram Gopal Varma has nearly ten films in the pipeline for this year. Few of them including Power Star, Climax and Thriller are already streaming on Varmas own PPV site RGV World Theatre.

Ram Gopal Varma charges the audience to watch his films on the direct-to-home platform. The rest of RGVs projects scheduled for 2020 will be released in the approaching months. 12 O Clock, Dangerous, Murder and Enter The Girl Dragon are in filming stage.
After being part of the community for two decades, the Canadian Cancer Society's Windsor branch has permanently closed its doors.

Donna Gerardi, whose 28-year-old son was recently diagnosed with cancer, says she was disappointed to hear the news.

"People need to understand that this is a huge loss to Windsor," said Gerardi, who lives in East Riverside. "They don't understand what this association does for people in the community until you live it."

The society provides support services and information for people and families dealing with a cancer diagnosis including counselling, travel accommodations to appointments and wigs.

The organization, located in downtown Windsor, has been closed since the start of the pandemic in March and has slowly moved out of the space over the last few months, executive vice president of finance and operations Sara Oates told CBC News Wednesday.

Jennifer La Grassa/CBC

While the closure isn't specifically due to COVID-19, Oates said the pandemic has made operations more difficult and pushed the society to cut administrative costs to provide more online services.

"This also means that we are changing our overall office footprint. So this had already started before March, but the COVID experience definitely showed us that much more can be done virtually," Oates said.

"The Canadian Cancer Society is going through a larger transformational change to increase our ability to control cancer and to support Canadians that are affected by cancer. So we've been revisiting everything that we do, how we serve Canadians with our services, how we fundraise [and] how we work,"

Three permanent staff working out of the Windsor office were laid off, due to the closure.

Overall, the organization has seen a 40 per cent drop in revenue due to the pandemic, Oates said, a "significant" loss. Across the country 23 other locations will close this fiscal year.

While they may not be in person anymore, Oates said people can still access support online through the company's live chats, helpline and online peer support community.

Story continues

Oates said the organization is still trying to determine how it can continue it's transportation service, which would help cancer patients get to their appointments.

Submitted by Donna Gerardi

"It's just really sad to see because so many things are closing, whether it be a store or a business," Gerardi said of the services moving online.

"There's people out there in the community that need that support and now they're saying go on on the internet and utilize it from there?"

As for how this closure might impact the community, Oates said it's "something that we've considered and it's been a concern to us."

"We continue to look at ways that we can grow [our virtual services] and provide them to more people ... and I think that we'll continue to look at how we can view community in a different way, not just from a physical or geographic location, but also linking people to others who are going through a similar circumstance and can provide them with support in maybe a different way, but a way that continues to be valuable to them," she said.
THE INSPIRATION

New York is and always has been an international phenomenon that means so much to so many people around the world. Think: Global. Diverse. Inclusive. Vibrant. United. Resilient. #StrongerTogether. Throughout its long and wild history, our "little town" has demonstrated time and time again that it's truly New York Tough. "I honestly never thought that New York would experience a more challenging situation than 9/11, says Bond No. 9 founder Laurice Rahme. "We've created scents for many great neighborhoods. It feels like the right moment to celebrate the whole city!"

THE COMPOSITION

"This scent is abstract. It's sexy and spicy, just like New York," says Rahme. The top explodes with an energizing burst of ginger and pink pepper, which simmers down into a rich rose heart. Finally, the base is lush with cashmeran, sandalwood, and patchouli, lending the composition a luxurious and grounding warmth.

THE PACKAGING

While the world was watching non-stop devastating news in the early days of the pandemic, something truly hopeful occurred in Brazil. Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro's ever-present symbol, stood solid as the images of flags from around the world were projected onto the statue's facade in a sign of solidarity among nations affected by the virus. This awesome feat inspired My New York's own packaging, which consists of a pastiche of various flags; among them: Japan, Great Britain, and Mexico, ranging to the tri-colored Pan-African flag developed in 1920, which represents not so much a territory but a symbolic union of Black people around the world.

GIVING BACK

We're honored to announce that, from October 15-29, 10% of online sales of My New York on www.bondno9.com will benefit Robin Hood's Rise Up New York!, which is helping everyday New Yorkers rebuild their lives as the city moves toward recovery, each and every day.

AVAILABILITY

My New York arrives in October 2020 and will be sold at Bond New York Boutiques, Saks Fifth Avenue nationwide, select Bloomingdales stores and www.bondno9.com

Eau de parfum, 100 ml, $410, 50 ml, $260 Scented candle, $100

My New York Limited Edition Swarovski arrives in November 2020, 100 ml, $440

SOCIAL

#bondno9

@bondno9ny

SOURCE Bond No. 9 New York

Related Links

http://www.bondno9.com


Eagle Ford producer Lonestar Resources filed for bankruptcy protection under Chapter 11 this week, becoming the latest casualty in the string of bankruptcies in the U.S. shale patch this year.

Lonestar Resources filed for relief under Chapter 11 in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas, as a growing number of U.S. oil and gas producers  from small players to giants  are saddled with debt they cannot repay with oil prices so low.

This week, Oasis Petroleum Inc also filed for a voluntary Chapter 11 process aimed at restructuring that is expected to reduce its debt by US$1.8 billion. Oasis Petroleum has enough liquidity to maintain operations and expects to emerge from the restructuring process in November 2020, subject to Court approval, the company said.

Dozens of shale producers have already filed for bankruptcy protection this year, with Chapter 11 filings accelerating after oil prices crashed in March and U.S. shale producers curtailed production in the following months.

Notable bankruptcies included Permian producer Rosehill Resources, California Resources, and Denbury Resources. Shale giant Chesapeake Energy also filed for bankruptcy at the end of June.

According to data from law firm Haynes and Boone as of August 31, a total of 13 producers filed for protection in July and August, which, combined with the rest of the filings this year, represents a 62-percent increase over this time last year.

Its not quite the level of filings reached in 2016 but a disturbing trend nevertheless. It is interesting to note that the total secured debt involved in 2020 producer bankruptcies to date already exceeds the total amount of secured debt for all producer filings in 2016, Haynes and Boone said.

Until full economic activity returns and consumer confidence that the worst of the pandemic is behind us, demand levels will remain depressed. Lower for longer remains the watchword for producers and their creditors, the law firm said.

By Josh Owens for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:




Haiti - News : Zapping...





Budget 2020-2021 : 254 billion gourdes

On Wednesday an extraordinary Council of Ministers adopted the decree on the state budget for the fiscal year 2020-2021 in the amount of 254 billion gourdes. To be continued...



The Government is mobilizing for the CEP

"My Government is mobilized to make available to the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) all the financial and material resources necessary for the accomplishment of its mission. I am currently meeting with the new members of the CEP to show them, on behalf of the Government, my support and solidarity," declared Prime Minister Joseph Jouthe on Wednesday.



Ouanaminthe border market opening soon

On Wednesday morning, various actors gathered around the regulation of management mechanisms for the Ouanaminthe border market, with a view to starting its operations very soon. The construction of this market, which is estimated at around 9 million euros, financed by the European Union from the 10th European Development Fund, includes : a main building for exhibition and sale, 4 warehouses, an administrative block , a parking area, sanitary facilities etc...



European diplomacy lunched with the CSC/CA

On Wednesday, Ambassador of the European Union Sylvie Tabesse and the ambassadors of the Member States : France, Germany and Spain in Haiti, had a lunch meeting with the President of the Superior Court of Accounts and Litigation CSC/CA Me Roguavil Boisguene who was accompanied by other members of the Court. These exchanges made it possible to discuss the priorities of the Court as well as the themes of good financial and institutional governance, key elements of the partnership with Haiti.



200th after the death of King Henry Christophe

The commemoration ceremony for the 200th anniversary of the death of King Henry Christophe scheduled for Thursday, October 8, 2020 in the second city of the country will be held at the Town Hall located at street 20 FG, starting at 4:00 p.m. ceremony, the historian Michel Soukar will present the work of Louis-Emile Elie "The tragic life of Henri Christophe".



HL/ HaitiLibre


















As the census nears the end of completion for 2020, some areas in northeast Houston are going largely undercounted.

Sheldon, Aldine and the southwestern portion of Porter are a few of the areas that have 50 percent or fewer responses to the U.S. Census, according to self-reported data from the US Census Bureau. For now, the census is expected to end self-response and field data collection by Oct. 5. According to the government website, 98 percent of households were counted so far in the 2020 census despite the disparities in some areas, according to self-reported data.

ELECTION: Harris County launches mail ballot tracking system to ensure residents their vote has counted

Before the novel coronavirus arrived, the Harris County Precinct 2 Commissioners office worked by going to places in person and through various promotional work to create awareness about the importance of filling out the census.

Now, they rely heavily on their online work and outreach programs, including a partnership with the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations and Houston in Action in addition to census parades, Facebook live events, and reaching out at food distribution sites in Spanish and English.

Precinct 2 has canvassed 16,849 doors with a literature drop about the census since May 1, focusing on Magnolia Park, Barrett Station in Crosby, Pecan Park, Pasadena, Aldine, Channelview, Northshore, Atascocita, Baytown, and Southbelt/ Ellington. Since April 1, they have made 27,574 calls through phone banking.

Precinct 2 Commissioner Adrian Garcia said census data is essential in deciding where to direct federal funding.

Collecting census data is critical because all of our funds from the federal government depend on an accurate count of how many people live here, Garcia said in a statement.

However, some underrepresented communities are less likely to respond.

According to the Pew Research Center, 16 percent of all U.S. adults said they might or might not, probably will not or definitely will not fill out the 2020 census last October. About 34 percent of those between the ages 18-29 said they were unlikely to fill out the census. Black and Hispanic individuals were 26 and 21 percent unlikely, and those with a family income of less than $30,000 were unlikely to fill out the census.

Do you want better roadways and highways that result in opportunities for local businesses? Fill out your census. Do you want good schools with teachers that can be paid well for their hard work? Fill out your census. Do you want access to quality healthcare and address medically underserved communities? Fill out your census, Garcia said in a statement.

LOCAL: Faith leaders say Trumps refusal to denounce white supremacists will fuel hate, violence

In one northwestern Aldine census data tract, only 53 percent of people responded to the census in 2010. As of now, only 34.6 percent have responded in the same area. This portion of Aldine is termed Tract 2226.01 by the census and is located between the Hardy Toll Road and Imperial Valley Drive.

Its especially important because Aldine is unincorporated, which has led to depending heavily on the school district and the county for services, Garcia said.

In areas like Aldine, not getting a full response from residents just perpetuates the problems of areas continuing to be underserved by government services.

There has been a whirlwind of confusion around the 2020 census, beginning with whether or not to include an individuals immigration status on the census.

In July, President Donald Trump signed a presidential memorandum to exclude undocumented immigrants from being counted for changes to congressional districts, which ended up in court. The Supreme Court will likely hear this case as soon as December according to recent reporting from The New York Times, which said that in the past everyone has been counted regardless of their immigration status. The census is meant to collect information to help determine political representation, funding distribution and understand growth in a community.

The census also is directly related to our representation in Congress and Texas growth could mean as many as four additional seats in state and federal governments, which translates to areas like Precinct 2 gaining more state and federal advocates getting help during national emergencies and more funding after natural disasters, Garcia said. These potential new seats could add additional representation for the Hispanic and Black communities.

savannah.mehrtens@chron.com
Syracuse, N.Y. -- The Remington Arms factory in Ilion, which employs more than 700 people, will be sold to an investment company as part of a plan to break up the troubled gun maker and sell it off in pieces.

Roundhill Group LLC is identified in bankruptcy court filings as the successful bidder for the non-Marlin portion of Remingtons firearms business, which includes its gun factory in the Herkimer County village of Ilion and its handgun barrel factory in Lenoir City, Tennessee.

Roundhill has agreed to pay $13 million for the firearms business, according to documents filed Sunday in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in the Northern District of Alabama.

The pending sale has union leaders in Ilion optimistic that the gun factory will remain open.

Publicly available documents filed over the weekend with the Bankruptcy Court indicate that there could be a successful bidder for certain assets of Remington that would include the Ilion, N.Y., plant, and that bidder would agree to keep the plant open, Cecil E. Roberts, president of the United Mine Workers of America International, said in a statement Monday.

Roberts said the union has been in talks with Roundhill about the Ilion plants collective bargaining agreement and will be talking with Roundhill further if its bid is accepted by the court.

Our goal throughout this process has always been to keep that plant open and our members working, he said. That appears to be on track, at least to this point.

Citing slumping sales, Remington filed for protection from creditors under Chapter 11 of U.S. Bankruptcy Code on July 27, the second time in two years that it has done so.

The move created uncertainty about the future of the Ilion plant. The day after the bankruptcy filing, Remington warned in a notice filed under the state Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act that it may close the plant and lay off its 717 workers on Sept. 29 or within two weeks after that.

The company said it filed the notice because it could not predict the outcome of a potential sale of the company in a bankruptcy court proceeding.

Remington was founded in Ilion in 1816 by blacksmith Eliphalet Remington.

These are the other successful bidders for Remingtons various businesses:

Vista Outdoor Inc. was the successful bidder for the Lonoke ammunitions business.

Sierra Bullets LLC was the successful bidder for the Barnes ammunition business.

Sturm, Ruger & Co. was the successful bidder for the Marlin firearms business.

JJE Capital Holdings LLC was the successful bidder for the DPMS, H&R, Stormlake, AAC and Parker brands.

Franklin Armory Holdings Inc. was the successful bidder for the Bushmaster brand and certain related assets.

Sportsmans Warehouse Inc. was the successful bidder for the Tapco brand.

The sales, which are subject to the courts approval, would bring in $155 million to be applied to Remingtons debt.

Rick Moriarty covers business news and consumer issues. Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact him anytime: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 315-470-3148
Louisville Detective Myles Cosgrove in two file photographs. (Louisiville Metro Police Department and Safety and security of Detective Myles Cosgrove/GiveSendGo)

Louisville Police Officer Involved in Breonna Taylor Shooting Raises Funds to Retire Early

One of three police officers involved in the shooting death of Breonna Taylor earlier this year is fundraising to retire early, citing threats and personal information being revealed by malicious actors.

It has recently become clear that it will be impossible for Myles to safely return to his position serving the community with the Louisville Metro Police Department, the family of Detective Myles Cosgrove wrote on the GiveSendGo fundraising website.

We hope to raise enough funds to help him purchase the remainder of his service time, or air-time, so that he can retire from the LMPD and continue to focus on the safety of his family, a family that has been put continually at-risk over the past few months.

Family members said Cosgrove, a former U.S. Marine, and his family have received countless threats.

Myles reputation has been completely dismantled and the psychological trauma is something that he will have to cope with for the rest of his life. Every day, the threats seem more legitimate and scarier; his family has been doxed and harassed, while the threats remain unrelenting, the family wrote.

Victoria Gunther marches with Black Lives Matter protesters, in Louisville. Ky., on Sept. 25, 2020. (Darron Cummings/AP Photo)

Jarrod Beck, an attorney for Cosgrove, told CNN the page is legitimate. Beck didnt return a voicemail on Thursday.

Cosgrove helped serve a warrant for Taylors ex-boyfriend in March at the emergency medical technicians apartment in Louisville.

He and two other officers, Detective Brett Hankison, and Sgt. Jon Mattingly knocked and announced themselves before breaching the door, Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron said at a news conference last month.

Sergeant Mattingly, the only officer who actually entered the residence, saw a man and a woman, and the man, later identified as Taylors boyfriend, Kenneth Walker, began firing at him.

The officers returned fire.

Hankison was charged last month with three counts of wanton endangerment after shots he fired went into a neighboring apartment, where a family was at home.

The shots fired by Cosgrove and Mattingly were justified since Walker fired first, Cameron said. They were not charged. Walker was initially charged with attempted murder but the charge was later dropped.

Breonna Taylor in Louisville, Ky., in an undated photograph. (Courtesy of Taylor family attorney Sam Aguiar via AP)

Taylor was hit by six bullets, according to the states investigation.

The fatal shot was fired by Cosgrove, according to an FBI ballistics test. A state ballistics test was not conclusive.

Cosgrove and Mattingly are still on administrative reassignment, with pay.

An FBI probe into the shooting is ongoing as is an internal police probe.

After lawyers for Taylors family applied pressure and a judge ordered him to do so, Cameron, Kentuckys top law enforcement official, agreed Monday to release a recording of grand jury proceedings that led to Hankison being charged.

Todd McMurtry, who is helping represent Mattingly, said in a statement this week that the sergeants family was told someone had put out a contract to kill them.

According to the Louisville Courier-Journal, Mattinglys wife wrote on Facebook last week that the family left their home months ago after receiving a phone call that there were credible threats received and vetted by the FBI.

We have been in hiding ever since. Try explaining that to your young child without traumatizing him. Since all of this happened, he has experienced night terrors and so much anxiety that he becomes physically sick. Our adult children have been traumatized and displaced as well, she wrote.

The guilt of moving your in-laws, who are in their 70s, out of their house for their safety is overwhelming. Our lives will never be the same, and all because my husband was shot first while doing his job.
Story of a Colombian woman who went missing two years ago and is found alive at sea has sparked various theories. Angelica Gaitan was spotted floating alive at the sea. The footage of the rescue of a 46-year-old Colombian woman has now gone viral on social media by Roland Visbal, floating 1.2 miles off Puerto Colombia. Gaitan was found by fisherman Rolando Visbal and his friend around two miles away from the shore of Puerto Colombia on Saturday. As the story went viral, people were reminded of the 2000 Hollywood movie Cast Away storyline. And soon, people were reminded of more such incidents that resembled the movie' story which will surely make Tom Hanks proud. In the movie, after a deadly plane crash, Chuck Nolan finds himself on a desolate island. With no way to escape, he finds various ways to survive in his new home. Miracle! Indonesian Woman Found Alive on the Same Beach Where She Went Missing One & Half Years Ago.

Also Read | Laal Singh Chaddha: Aamir Khan Will Start Shooting in Mumbai With Extra Safety Measures for Pregnant Kareena Kapoor Khan

Video of the Colombian woman's dramatic rescue has gone viral on social media platforms. He initially mistook Gaitan for a piece of driftwood, but when she raised her hands to signal for help, that's when they realised. She was found around 6 AM on Saturday. When they found her, she was exhausted and suffering from hypothermia after staying afloat for more than eight hours. Mystery Sea Creature Washes Ashore Canterbury Beach in New Zealand.

Missing Woman Found on Colombian Beach After 2 Years:

Also Read | Mel Gibson Tested Positive for COVID-19 in April, Treated With Drug Remdesivir in Hospital

Real-life Robinson Crusoe

Real-life Robinson Crusoe was likely a Scottish man by the name of Alexander Selkirk, who lived on a deserted island for four years due to a shipwreck. Similarly, in October 1704, Selkirk was on the crew of a ship called St. George when it stopped at the archipelago of Juan Fernandez, west of Chile. Selkirk thought the ship was in bad shape and decided he better be on Juan Fernandez than on in a vessel. The captain left him with some clothing, a musket, some tools, a Bible and tobacco. He first read his Bible and expected a ship to come, but four years and four months later a friendly ship finally crossed his path. Today, the island he lived on has been renamed, Robinson Crusoe. A nearby island has been christened Alexander Selkirk.

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Thomas Francis Neale

Thomas Francis Neale wanted to be on the beach on Rarotonga, the largest island in the Cook Islands in October 1952. A boat passing by Suwarrow Island in the South Pacific agreed to drop him. The island had been uninhabited since WWII but people had left chickens and pigs. Neale began hunting and eat the pigs, and domesticate the chickens. He was got along well until May 1954 when he hurt his back and took a ride to Rarotonga, the largest Cook Island for medical attention. He then married and had two kids, but kept dreaming of his island. He returned to the island in 1960. He left and again returned in 1967 and lasted 10 years. In 1977, he was found ill by a yacht and took him back to Rarotonga. He later died of stomach cancer eight months later. Eerie! Seattle Teens Find Human Remains During Tiktok #randonautchallenge That Sees Netizens Exploring New Places.

Juana Maria

A Native American woman believed to be Juana Maria is known in history as the Lone Woman of San Nicolas Island. She belonged to the Nicoleno tribe. In 1835, when Russian otter killers invaded San Nicolas Island and slaughtered most of the Nicoleno people, missionaries took the remaining tribespeople with them to live at the San Gabriel Mission in California. In 1853, a sea otter hunter named George Nidever found her in a hut made of whale bones. She was taken to the Santa Barbara Mission and eventually, Nidever brought her home to live with him and his wife. But just seven weeks later she contracted dysentery and died.

The fishermen are being praised for bringing the survivor to life. She was initially looked after by kind locals before being taken to the hospital. She cried as people tried to record her on camera. Gaitan's first words on being rescued by Visbal and his friends were, "I was born again, God did not want me to die." Gaitan said that she decided to run away from home in 2018 due to domestic abuse from her ex-husband. Russia's 'Spy' Beluga Whale Returns iPhone to Woman Who Dropped It in the Sea, Video Goes Viral.

She had approached the police to register complaints, but the cops failed to address her concerns. In September 2018, she ran away from home and moved around the streets for six months before finding a place to stay in the city centre. One day she decided to leave everything and jump into the sea, but does not remember anything after that.
The License Board meets Monday.

Wheeler's Market Manager Awaits Approval of Alcohol Licenses

PITTSFIELD, Mass.  The Licensing Board approved the transfer of two alcohol licenses to the new owner of Wheeler's Market contingent on receiving legal information from the applicant's attorney regarding the rules around holding a pouring and a package store license at the same time.

Raj Patel of Wheeler's Market Inc. was before the board on Monday for approval of the transfer of both an annual wine and malt package store license and a seasonal all-alcohol package store license from Desiderata Packaged Goods LLC contingent on his attorney providing this information.

The board, consisting of Chairman Thomas Campoli, Vice Chairman Richard Stockwell, Dennis Powell, Dina Lampiasi, and Kathleen Amuso were hesitant to make the final approval without this contingency.

Wheeler's Market sits across from Pontoosuc lake, offering everything from convenience items to fresh made sandwiches. It has been owned for about a decade by Gregory Babich. Patel, of Seekonk, is purchasing the property and assets for $649,000 according to documents filed with the board.

Patel is also involved in two other package stores  in Fall River and Swansea  and owns a hotel in Seekonk that has a restaurant and banquet hall that have been both been closed because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"In the pandemic, hotel businesses are hurting too much," Patel said. "Particularly, the banquet business is totally shut down.

Patel stated that he would be working at Wheeler's for a total of 30 hours a week until a manager is put in place. Campoli asked about the management of his other holdings, and Patel said the two other package stores share a manager who holds the license but that his name is on the restaurant's license. However, that is in the process of being transferred to the longtime banquet manager.

Stockwell raised the question of whether Patel could hold the two different licenses under state law and referred to Babich, who he said had run into the same issue when he ran the Tavern at the A.

"When we got the pouring license for the GEAA, we were told that we had to put that license in another name," Babich confirmed. "I don't know what the exact law is."

Campoli thought Stockwell could be right and asked that Patel's attorney, C. Beau Akers, research that information and return it to the board. Until then, the board voted to approve the transfer pending the further clarification.

Stockwell suggested to Patel it would be easier for him if the transfers  the ones in Pittsfield and the one Seekonk  went to the Alcohol Beverages Control Commission at the same time.

The board filed any action against Robert B. Skubel, operating as R.B.S. Automotive, related to a fine for violating conditions of his Class II Auto Dealer License after a show cause hearing.

Fire Lt. Randy Stein issued the noncriminal fire code fine of $100 to the 100 Linden St. business for vehicles not being in the approved spots. Stein said the fine was paid and he has checked back a couple of times.

"They are very close to perfect compliance," he told the board, with the exception of vehicle that was left at business that Skubel has had difficulty getting rid of. "We did give them the option to go to the Police Department and have it towed."

He said there were some tires that are being removed and a recommendation for customer and employee parking signage.

The property and the adjacent lot being used for parking are owned by Louis Costi, and Skubel said he was looking into having some trees removed on the lot to provide more space. He noted he has been in business for 26-27 years and that this was maybe the second time he'd had an issue.

"If you check your records, this is not a constant thing of me coming in front of the board," he said.

The board voted to table the matter with the potential for revisiting in the future if there are more violations. Campoli thanked Skubel for his diligence and patience.

"We'll keep it clean, it sometimes gets out of hand but we'll take care of it," Skubel said.

In other business, the board ratified Campoli's approval for sidewalk seating at The Lantern Bar & Grill for applicant Bjorn Somlo and extended a seasonal wine and malt package store license for Wohrle's Foods Inc. of 1619 East St. Campoli said manager Lynn Kessler had asked for an extension to Jan. 16, but that was one day beyond what the board could give under statute. The board amended and approved the extension to Jan. 15.
Close

(Photo : New Studies Reveal Higher Rates Of Mental Health Issues In Families With Intellectual Disability)

Family caregivers for individuals with intellectual disabilities were 10 times more likely to have an episode of severe anxiety and major depression, according to studies from Swansea University. The challenges faced by caregivers, especially mothers, have been largely overlooked during the pandemic. In fact, caregiver burnout is considered a major obstacle in providing the utmost medical care for those in need, whether it be at home or at a healthcare facility. During the pandemic in particular, parents have found it more difficult to handle their children or family members due to lack of finances, supportive assistance, or their own health issues. It is important that these challenges aren't disregarded or minimized, as they may affect the family as a whole.

Mental Health of Caregivers

According to the Cerebral Palsy Family Network, it is important to be aware of the increased risk of mental and behavioral health disorders among those with disabilities such as Cerebral Palsy, as well as their care providers. Another study by the University of Warwick showed that caregivers of adults and children with mental disabilities were 5 times more likely to have severe anxiety episodes. Not to mention, caregivers were also 4 times more likely to incur an episode of major depression than families without disabilities.

This is partly due to the economic recession that forced family members to budget around bills and food rather than educational development. In fact, these problems are over what is annually expected pre-pandemic and are magnified in low-income households. Closures of special daycares and adult health services have also added extra work and responsibilities for family members to care for loved ones while maintaining their home and work responsibilities.

Burnout Care

The focus of burnout care is to re-instill the normalcy of everyday life into parents without leaving their responsibilities behind and take control of their health. Social support from family members and friends have shown to decrease the severity and occurrences of anxiety and depression in parents. Numerous studies have shown that it gives them time to reconnect with friends and loved ones who can offer advice or help, or maybe just a shoulder to lean on during difficult times.

Learning a new hobby such as cooking, reading, sewing can help reduce mental stress on a daily basis. A regular fitness routine would also drastically improve your physical and mental health while giving yourself time "to blow off steam" or simply focus on yourself when the opportunity is needed.

By keeping in mind the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and their primary caretakers, people can better navigate their day-to-day responsibilities without approaching burnout.

See Now: What Republicans Don't Want You To Know About Obamacare
Two white Alabama police officers have been charged with assault for beating a black man and threatening to kill him after he got into a road rage incident with one of their wives.

Selma Police officer Matthew Blaine Till and Dallas County sheriffs deputy John Nicholas Taccone were hit with felony assault charges on Tuesday.

On April 30 Till's wife got into a road rage incident and called her husband to tell him about her squabble with a 'black guy in a red Charger', according to court documents.

Till and Taccone arrived to the scene near an Exxon gas station at the 2700 block of Highway 80 West in Selma and found the driver exiting a parking lot. They stopped him and ordered him out of the vehicle.

Selma Police officer Matthew Blaine Till (left) and Dallas County sheriffs deputy John Nicholas Taccone (right) were hit with felony assault charges on Tuesday for assaulting a black man on April 30 who got into a road rage incident with Till's wife

Till placed one handcuff on the victim but was unable to get the second one one him and a physical struggle ensued, where the officers struck his head and face in a brutal beat down, according to AL.com.

In the 90-second confrontation, Till allegedly pulled out a gun and told the victim that he was 'going to kill him'.

'They Tased him multiple times, threw him to the ground and were punching and kicking him. It was a brutal beating. All this was happening while the victim was repeatedly asking the officers "What did I do?" Dallas County District Attorney Michael Jackson said announcing the charges.

Jackson pointed out that both cops were white and their victim black.

The unidentified black man eventually got into his car and fled, but crashed his vehicle a short time later.

Till and Taccone arrived to the scene near an Exxon gas station at the 2700 block of Highway 80 West in Selma before the struggle ensued

On Wednesday Dallas County District Attorney Michael Jackson announced that both men were charged with felony second-degree assault, unlawful imprisonment and obstructing governmental operations

'It was a brutal beating. All this was happening while the victim was repeatedly asking the officers "What did I do?"' Jackson said at the Wednesday press conference

He was then transported to a holding cell at the city's police department where federal agents interviewed him about weapons that were found inside his car, court documents said.

'These officers escalated a personal matter that should have been a traffic stop at worse into a Rocky Horror beating,' Jackson said.

Till pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice in federal court last week for telling Taconne not to speak with anyone about the call he received from his wife before the incident

Till was fired, and Taccone is no longer employed with the sheriff's office, according to the prosecutor. It was not immediately clear if either of the two men had an attorney who could comment.

'Public officials are held to a higher standard,' Jackson said, according to the Selma Times-Journal. 'It was a bullying situation. The badge is a symbol of integrity and protection.'

Both men were then charged Tuesday with felony second-degree assault, unlawful imprisonment and obstructing governmental operations.

Till pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice in federal court last week for telling Taconne not to speak with anyone about the call he received from his wife before the incident.

A federal judge has set his sentencing date to December 28.
Wallish did not return CBDs calls. But a friend speaking on her behalf clarified that the activist was not distributing election material. Peake practice It will be some time before we get the full picture of the vast amount of money that federal and state governments have thrown at the pandemic. But its unlikely many find themselves on a wicket as generous as Michele Morrison, the Department of Health and Human Services' new COVID-19 chief development officer. DHHS is led by secretary Kym Peake, one of the star witnesses in the ongoing inquiry into the governments hotel quarantine program. DHHS secretary Kym Peake giving evidence this week.

Peake took on Morrison midway through the public health meltdown, paying her some serious danger money. Her salary? A cool $1.19 million, for a two year contract. What will the development tsars duties be? The chief development officer will play a key role in the delivery of the government's social housing program and will report to the deputy secretary housing at DHHS, a departmental spokesman told CBD. Morrison was contracted "following a procurement process" that was "undertaken in accordance with all Victorian public sector requirements".

The department didnt comment directly on the enormous salary but is excited about her track record. "Michele is a recognised expert in large scale, complex infrastructure delivery, most recently at Capella Capital where she led the team responsible for constructing the Bendigo Hospital." Another source (Morrisons LinkedIn page) was even more flattering: "Michele is whom you choose when you must have certainty of outcome on your projects." All Southerned out Canadian alt-right YouTuber Lauren Southern has been punted from the speakers list at next month's Conservative Political Action Conference.

The event  regarded as Woodstock for the Sky After Dark crowd  kicks off in Sydney on November 4, US election day. Lauren Southern Credit:Illustration: Joe Benke The Institute of Public Affairs, who sponsor the event, raised concerns about Southern's inclusion, as did a number of federal MPs scheduled to appear. "A lot of people that support CPAC and want the event to succeed thought it was inappropriate for her to be there," one source close to the event told CBD. Southern, who has moved to Sydney, appeared in a widely-circulated photo making a "white power" hand gesture to white supremacists including members of the neo-Nazi group Antipodean Resistance. Others understandably regard Southern's views on the "Great Replacement" conspiracy theory that warns of white genocide to be abhorrent.

Loading Officially, COVID-19 event restrictions have forced event organiser Andrew Cooper to downsize the event. The IPA declined to comment. Australian Jewish Association president David Adler said he had been reviewing his position on the conference but space restraints and Southern's removal from the line-up meant it became a "non-issue". Cooper said he had been made aware of some attendees' concerns. "Some questions were asked [about Southern's inclusion], but it wasn't just about her," Cooper said. "Space meant we dropped about half a dozen."

Did anyone else who received complaints get the chop? Maybe not, Cooper said. Porter's request Attorney General Christian Porter had a win of sorts on Thursday when the Maritime Union of Australia agreed to press pause on industrial action against port operator Patrick. But an appeal sent out to industry shows just how prepped the Attorney-General was to escalate the battle if the impasse over the port operator's enterprise bargaining agreement continued with the MUA. Attorney-General Christian Porter. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

On Wednesday, International Forwarding and Brokers Association of Australia chief executive Paul Damkjaer appealed to members with a call to arms - of the bureaucratic variety. "Today I have been contacted by the office of the Attorney-General requesting information on the impact the Sydney ports issue is having," Damkjaer wrote. "The Attorney-General's office would appreciate a letter or an email from your clients which/who are being impacted or who are concerned about the effects of the ongoing industrial action." Loading Letters sent needed to include specifics regarding costs incurred, delays and knock-on effects the industrial action has caused to members' clients, Damkjaer said. He also included the reminder: "Your client would need to be comfortable with the letter potentially being submitted as evidence to the Fair Work Commission in the event the Attorney decides to intervene in support of terminating industrial action." Porter, luckily, didnt need to take the nuclear option of relying on the Fair Work Commission to terminate the MUA's proposed action. But it's nice to know the A-G's department now has its ducks in a row if it needs to take the FWC route in a month's time.
By PTI

ALIGARH (UP): The principal of the Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College (JNMC) hospital, where the Hathras gangrape victim was under treatment for more than two weeks, on Thursday said he had no idea why she was admitted to the Safdarjung hospital in Delhi when they had referred her to the AIIMS.

"We are not in a position to explain as to why the patient was taken to the Safarjung hospital in New Delhi when we had referred her to the AIIMS," Professor Shahid Ali Siddiqui said.

"On the night of September 28, the victim's family sought permission to shift her and we willingly referred her to the AIIMS," he added.

The next morning, the patient, along with her family members, left for Delhi.

Asked about the issue on Wednesday, JNMC authorities told reporters, "The Hathras district administration will be able to respond to this query, we had no role in this."

Siddiqui said, "Normally, the decision to shift a patient for better medical facilities is taken by doctors in consultation with the patient's family, but if the family members wish to go by their decision, they can do so and we always cooperate."

Asked about certain conflicting media reports regarding the injuries suffered by the victim, he said there is no scope for speculation as "we are only authorised to submit the report to the investigating officer or the court".

Meanwhile, opposition parties and organisations have severely criticised the decision of the Hathras authorities on performing the last rites of the victim allegedly without the consent of the family.

The 19-year-old Dalit woman was allegedly raped by four upper-caste men in Hathras on September 14 and referred to the Safdarjung hospital in Delhi on Monday with spinal cord injuries, paralysis and cuts in her tongue. She died at around 3 am on Tuesday.


The images were heartbreaking  a senior citizen, alone in their nursing home bedroom while, on the other side of the window, a family member stands outside and tries to establish some kind of connection to ease the sense of isolation and foreboding.

Surely, people said, there has to be a better way to keep residents of care facilities safe while also allowing them to be with their families.

Baptist Housing is working on it. The coronavirus pandemic has unexpectedly provided new insights into how nursing homes should be designed to help control the spread of any type of illness. The timing is especially beneficial as Baptist Housing works on its plans for the first phase of the Inglewood Care Centre redevelopment.

This past February, BC Housing financed the sale of the aging facility and three adjacent lots to Baptist Housing, which owns and operates 21 care homes in British Columbia. With a large financial commitment from the province, as well as Vancouver Coastal Health, Baptist Housing came up with plan to subsidize the construction of a replacement care home by creating a community of housing on the site. The total of 699 proposed units also includes private-pay units, life leases and rental apartments for staff.

In mid-September, the District of West Vancouver allowed the project to move to the public consultation stage.

In advance of the first public open house (details at bottom of story) on October 6, the North Shore News talked with Howard Johnson, Baptist Housing CEO and president, and Marc Kinna, executive vice-president operations and chief operating officer. They walked through some of the ways theyre adapting traditional nursing home designs to ensure residents and staff can enjoy a better quality of life and work during a pandemic.

COVID-19 has taught us about the risk of bringing a virus from the outside world into the residences of these seniors, Kinna says. We have to remember that they dont life where we work; we work in their home. This has really transformed our thinking around that.

As well, the changes will keep residents healthier, pandemic or not. Every single design element that will make the building better, and the experience better for residents, also applies to other forms of illness, he says. Were hoping that the incidence of other communicable illnesses such as influenza, the Norwalk virus and the common cold will be lesser as well.

Because many of these design changes can be incorporated into the original plans, they are optimistic they wont add much to the overall cost of the construction.

The COVID-19 dilemma: in some facilities, many residents share a room. (In Ontario, it is not uncommon to have up to four residents in a room; in B.C. it is more commonly two.) This made residents much more susceptible to transmission of the virus. As well, it was challenging to isolate residents who were ill.

The Inglewood solution: every resident will have their own room plus an ensuite bathroom with shower. This gives them privacy, dignity and, when needed, the opportunity to reduce transmission risk.

The COVID-19 dilemma: Family members were not allowed to visit. There was no physical contact with the outside world, leaving many residents feeling lonely and confused.

The Inglewood solution: there will be two elevators  one for visitors, one for staff. When you get off the visitor elevator, there will immediately be a multi-purpose room. In normal times, it will be a place where residents can gather amongst themselves or with visitors. In times of a pandemic or influenza outbreak, it will accommodate one-on-one family visits. Safety protocols can easily put in place  perhaps it will be a plexiglass shield or some other sort of barrier  and visitors will not have to go near residents rooms or staff areas.

It would just seem seamless, Kinna says.

The COVID-19 dilemma: it was hard to isolate residents and staff from each other, especially when there could be up to 60 people living on one floor.

The Inglewood solution: the seniors home will be designed as households, with 23 residents living in that community. This creates distance and separation between households, which is particularly important when it comes to food services and living spaces.

As part of these households, staff will have their own lunch rooms and team spaces. They will be able to take their breaks withing their own area of work and not have to congregate in larger spaces, says Johnson. As well, Kinna adds, it allows team members to be closer to the residents and not have to leave the floor theyre working on.

The COVID-19 dilemma: unable to have in-person visits, residents relied on phones or tablets to stay in touch with family. Often they needed staff to assist them.

The Inglewood solution: Were going to expand our use of technology quite a bit more in terms of how we ensure theres enough resources and flexibility to support residents, Johnson says. Our building will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology to allow for that, whether its Wi-fi or the wiring necessary to provide technology within the suite.

The COVID-19 dilemma: at first it was believed that the virus spread primarily through physical contact. Now, much of the research indicates that it is also an airborne disease.

The Inglewood solution: We need to keep the air moving in such a way that its not recirculating within the communities and potentially spreading anything thats airborne, Kinna says. Johnson adds, Think about how often the air is exchanged. When you look at how we design buildings for seniors to live it, its similar in that youre making sure the air in the building is new every six minutes or so.

Each household of 23 suites will have its own air system, which will also help prevent the spread of airborne diseases from one floor to another.

To find out more about design plans for the Inglewood Care Centre redevelopment, people are invited to participate in two upcoming drop-in open houses. Each session will be limited to 50 people:

 Tues., Oct. 6: Session 1 is from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Session 2 is from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

 Thurs., Nov. 5: Session 1 is from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Session 2 is from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Baptist Housing will also be hosting a virtual town hall at a date yet to be determined.

People are also invited to submit questions and answer a short survey at https://www.baptisthousing.org/inglewoodredevelopment, where they can also find out more about the project.

Martha Perkins is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter with the North Shore News, where this story first appeared.

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Most readers would already be aware that Discovery Africa's (ASX:DAF) stock increased significantly by 19% over the past three months. Given the company's impressive performance, we decided to study its financial indicators more closely as a company's financial health over the long-term usually dictates market outcomes. Particularly, we will be paying attention to Discovery Africa's ROE today.

Return on equity or ROE is a key measure used to assess how efficiently a company's management is utilizing the company's capital. Put another way, it reveals the company's success at turning shareholder investments into profits.

See our latest analysis for Discovery Africa

How To Calculate Return On Equity?

The formula for ROE is:

Return on Equity = Net Profit (from continuing operations)  Shareholders' Equity

So, based on the above formula, the ROE for Discovery Africa is:

75% = AU$1.6m  AU$2.1m (Based on the trailing twelve months to June 2020).

The 'return' is the profit over the last twelve months. That means that for every A$1 worth of shareholders' equity, the company generated A$0.75 in profit.

What Is The Relationship Between ROE And Earnings Growth?

So far, we've learned that ROE is a measure of a company's profitability. Based on how much of its profits the company chooses to reinvest or "retain", we are then able to evaluate a company's future ability to generate profits. Generally speaking, other things being equal, firms with a high return on equity and profit retention, have a higher growth rate than firms that dont share these attributes.

Discovery Africa's Earnings Growth And 75% ROE

First thing first, we like that Discovery Africa has an impressive ROE. Secondly, even when compared to the industry average of 12% the company's ROE is quite impressive. So, the substantial 44% net income growth seen by Discovery Africa over the past five years isn't overly surprising.

Story continues

Next, on comparing with the industry net income growth, we found that Discovery Africa's growth is quite high when compared to the industry average growth of 34% in the same period, which is great to see.

Earnings growth is a huge factor in stock valuation. The investor should try to establish if the expected growth or decline in earnings, whichever the case may be, is priced in. Doing so will help them establish if the stock's future looks promising or ominous. One good indicator of expected earnings growth is the P/E ratio which determines the price the market is willing to pay for a stock based on its earnings prospects. So, you may want to check if Discovery Africa is trading on a high P/E or a low P/E, relative to its industry.

Is Discovery Africa Making Efficient Use Of Its Profits?

Discovery Africa doesn't pay any dividend to its shareholders, meaning that the company has been reinvesting all of its profits into the business. This is likely what's driving the high earnings growth number discussed above.

Conclusion

In total, we are pretty happy with Discovery Africa's performance. In particular, it's great to see that the company is investing heavily into its business and along with a high rate of return, that has resulted in a sizeable growth in its earnings. If the company continues to grow its earnings the way it has, that could have a positive impact on its share price given how earnings per share influence long-term share prices. Remember, the price of a stock is also dependent on the perceived risk. Therefore investors must keep themselves informed about the risks involved before investing in any company. You can see the 4 risks we have identified for Discovery Africa by visiting our risks dashboard for free on our platform here.

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. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.



Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com.
How quickly we pivot from honoring our frontline workers. In the exploitation splatter comedy 12 Hour Shift, two nurses manage an organ-trafficking network out of their Arkansas hospital. The drug-addled Mandy (Angela Bettis), who takes her orders from Karen (Nikea Gamby-Turner), brings fresh harvests to the soda machine just outside the buildings doors. From there, Regina (Chloe Farnworth), who harbors a misapprehension that shes Mandys cousin, is supposed to shuttle organs in a picnic cooler to their destination.

But Regina is not the sharpest scalpel in the operating room, and its only after a comically drawn-out pit stop for cheese puffs that she learns that she forgot to grab the latest biohazard bag. Her boss (the wrestler Mick Foley) informs her if she doesnt get him a kidney, hell take one from her.
Scene: Three huge cruise ships dock in Melbourne and disgorge a horde of pristinely clad but virulent tourists.

"Everyone gets infected, everyone dies," says award-winning director and playwright David Woods in a two-minute video pitch. "The whole thing's set in mud," he says, adding ironically, "it's hilarious".

It is the seed for a project likely to be a highlight of Rising, Melbourne's new winter arts festival that will debut next year.

Woods describes a gigantic, epic "durational performance" that will immerse audiences in apocalyptic chaos inspired by the intricate, nightmarish art of Hieronymus Bosch and Pieter Bruegel. He's engaged a team of writers to come up with ideas for the sprawling show that "should be fast, dirty and take nine hours and take a while to clean up".
An evil father who stabbed his ex-wife to death in a frenzied knife attack in a garage has been ordered to pay their devastated sons nearly $300,000 in damages.

Fernando Paulino murdered Teresa Mancuso, 46, by stabbing her at least 16 times at her elderly parents' Reservoir home in Melbourne's north in July 2013.

Her sons Daniel and Luke, 27 and 30, were on Thursday awarded a combined $280,000 after suing their father in Victoria's Supreme Court.

'Fernando has shattered the bounds of trust that are inherent in a parent-child relationship, and this is further compounded by Fernando's apparent lack of remorse,' Justice James Elliott said.

Teresa Mancuso (centre) was fatally stabbed by her ex-husband, Fernando Paulino  the father of Daniel and Luke. The pair have been awarded nearly $300,000 in damages against their father following the brutal attack in 2013

Daniel and Luke have become known as the 'YiaYia Next Door' brothers after they formed a special bond with their Greek next-door neighbour Nina - who would give them meals over the fence following their mother's death.

Paulino is serving a 30-year jail sentence after being convicted of murder - but is seeking for an appeal in the High Court.

An inmate who was housed in the same wing as Paulino told Daily Mail Australia in 2018 he wanted the brothers to know their father was a 'gutless coward' who plans to 'kill himself' if he is not released and forced to rot in jail.

Paulino killed out of jealousy, hatred and a determination to punish Ms Mancuso for moving on with life without him.

On December 20, 2017, Paulino (pictured) was sentenced to spend at least 25-years in jail for Ms Mancuso's murder

A loving mother: Teresa Mancuso and a young Daniel. Ms Mancuso, 46, was stabbed by her ex-husband at least 16 times in the garage of her elderly parents' Reservoir home

'From that moment, Fernando has deprived his sons, Daniel and Luke, of a life with their mother, of the ability to share her 50th birthday with them, and of the chance for her to be there as they celebrate their respective milestones,' Justice Elliott said.

With their father jailed, the young men took him to court. Each sought $350,000 for loss and suffering, including post-traumatic stress disorder and depression.

Justice Elliott said the figure was significantly more than compensation granted in similar cases. He ordered Daniel, now 30, receive $137,500 and 27-year-old Luke $142,500.

Ms Mancuso's brother, Patrick, sought $100,000 but received $42,500. He was angry and frustrated because he believed the murder could have been prevented.

Happier times: Ms Mancuso enjoys a special moment with her young sons during their childhood

Teresa Mancuso clowns about with her son Daniel (left). She was killed by her ex-husband out of jealousy and to punish her for moving on with life without him

Before she died, Ms Mancuso expressed fears Fernando would 'kill her one day'.

'It is clear that Teresa was a much loved person, and that she had close and loving relationships with Daniel, Luke and Patrick, and with the rest of her immediate and extended family, and friends,' Justice Elliott said.

'No award of compensation will ever fill the deep sadness, hurt and trauma that will remain with not only Daniel, Luke and Patrick, but the rest of Ms Mancuso's family and friends as well, for the rest of their lives.'

The bond between the brothers and their 'Yiayia' was forged after the murder.

No one had lived in the property for years until the brothers decided to move into the house to honour their mum.

Pictured are Daniel (left) and Luke Mancuso (right). They have formed a close bond with their neighbour Nina - a relationship popularised by an Instagram account they manage - who gives them cooked meals across the fence

The garage has since been turned into a games room filled with their childhood toys.

Nina has since cooked meals for the brothers, including traditional Greek food, homemade bread, chicken and their favourite spinach pie, Spanakopita.

Last year, the grandmother and her husband Petros discovered they would fly home to visit her family in Greece after Daniel and Luke surprised her with a travel voucher.

'To see my sister and my brother. That's a big, big deal for me,' Nina told the men, who she refers to as 'my grandkids'.

Nina's sister had suffered a stroke and Flight Centre donated a $4,000 travel voucher for the grandmother to be reunited with her and her brother.

Daniel and Luke surprised Nina with the voucher and celebrated by popping open a bottle of champagne.
HAMBURG: Two more cases of African swine fever (ASF) have been confirmed in wild boars in the eastern German state of Brandenburg, Germanys federal agriculture ministry said on Thursday.

The new discoveries bring the total number of confirmed cases to 40 since the first one on Sept. 10. All were in wild animals with no farm pigs affected, the ministry said.

The latest cases, confirmed by Germanys Friedrich-Loeffler scientific institute, were found in the area of the first discoveries, the ministry said. A case had also been found on Wednesday in a new area about 60 kilometres away from the first.

The ministry has previously warned that more cases in wild boar were to be expected as the disease is highly infectious.

China and a series of other buyers banned imports of German pork in September after the first case was confirmed, causing Chinese pork prices to surge.

The disease is not dangerous to humans but it is fatal to pigs and a massive outbreak in China, the worlds biggest pork producer, and elsewhere in Asia led to massive changes in global pork trade flows.

The state government of Brandenburg said separately it is searching intensively for dead wild boars in both areas where the disease has been confirmed, with teams working in fields and woods and aircraft drones also being used.

German pig prices remain unchanged since falling sharply on Sept. 11 on hopes that Spain, the Netherlands, Denmark and other EU countries will increase pork sales to China and elsewhere in Asia to compensate for lost German supplies, leaving market demand inside the EU which Germany can meet.

Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor
SAN DIEGO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / Nascent Biotech, Inc. (OTCQB:NBIO) Announced today that It has continued to reduce its liabilities through stock conversion and payment of accounts payable and accrued liabilities. The reduction was achieved through the conversion of debt to equity and the reduction of liabilities, including its last convertible note. The convertible note's principal is now $11,250 down from $161,250, a reduction of $150,000.

Nascent's CEO Sean Carrick states," The reduction of debt puts Nascent in a stronger position to move forward with the clinical trials which are to begin soon. Further liability management is a primarily objective of the Company."

About Nascent Biotech, Inc.:

Nascent Biotech, Inc. (OTCQB:NBIO) is a clinical-stage biotech company pioneering the development of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for the treatment of incurable cancers such as brain and pancreas, as well as hard-to-treat cancers such as colon and lung. Nascent is also employing its mAbs as part of treatments for dangerous viral infections, such as COVID-19. Collectively, cancers and viral infections afflict and kill tens of millions worldwide each year. Nascent's products are not commercially available. Our lead candidate, Pritumumab (PTB), is a fully-human mAb that will commence study in an FDA-approved Phase I clinical trial later this year for the treatment of primary and metastatic brain cancer, including glioblastoma and malignant astrocytoma. Development of PTB as a potential treatment for COVID-19 has been initiated. For more information, visit www.nascenbiotech.com.

Safe Harbor:

Statements in this press release about our future expectations constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and as that term is defined in the Private Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and are subject to change at any time, and our actual results could differ materially from expected results. These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, Nascent Biotech Inc's ability to target the medical professionals; Nascent Biotech Inc's ability to raise capital; as well as other risks. Additional information about these and other factors may be described in the Nascent Biotech Inc's Form 10, filed on May 2, 2015, and future subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or release any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this statement or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities nor will there be any sale of these securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction.

Contact:

Sean Carrick

President | CEO | Nascent Biotech, Inc.

6330 Nancy Ridge Dr Suite 105

San Diego CA 92121

772.713.0541 Cell

sean.carrick@nascentbiotech.com

www.nascentbiotech.com

SOURCE: Nascent Biotech, Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/608585/Nascent-Biotech-Continues-to-Reduce-Liabilities-by-Over-20-Million-Dollars
Central Regional Minister, Kwamena Duncan has called on the Government of Ghana to use a balanced approach in resolving the Western Togoland issue.



A secessionist group recently attacked some Police stations and blocked principal roads in the Volta Region in protest against the government.



The group demands to be an independent country, arguing there was an agreement between their forefathers and the government that, after 50 years, they could become autonomous.



The separatists also carried out an arson attack at the State Transport Corporation (STC) in Ho, Volta Region, burning vehicles belonging to the State-owned company.



The group say they want to become a country called ''Western Togoland''.



Their attacks have raised serious concerns with some people calling for a counter force from the government to restore calm in the Region.



But the Central Regional Minister is of a different opinion about how the government should conduct herself regarding this issue.



Although he condemns the secessionists in no uncertain terms, he however thinks using a counter force isn't the best solution.



He argued that the group members are Ghanaian citizens and deserve equal treatment as citizens; hence pleading with the government not to take any decision that will encroach upon the fundamental rights of the group.



"The State must have a very balanced solution to this matter. That yes, it is provocative that the State of Ghana cannot sit and watch aloof for some people or group to dare us but they're not just any persons or group from somewhere. They are Ghanaian citizens, so the State must act in a manner that will still ensure that their fundamental human rights are also respected . . . The State will by all means deal with this but the State, in dealing with this, must also bear in mind they need not to trample on their rights as citizens," he told host Kwami Sefa Kayi on Peace FM's 'Kokrokoo'.







Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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
ANKARA  When a long-simmering conflict in the south Caucasus burst into open warfare this week, Turkeys President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was the first world leader to jump into the fray.

His mission was not to calm tensions between the warring parties, Azerbaijan and Armenia. Instead, he declared all-out support for the Azerbaijanis, close Turkic allies, and accused Armenia of ignoring efforts to negotiate a resolution. He also demanded that Armenia withdraw from lands it occupied 30 years ago.

I condemn Armenia once again for attacking Azerbaijani lands, he said. Turkey continues to stand with the friendly and brotherly Azerbaijan with all its facilities and heart.

Dozens have been killed in four days of fighting since Azerbaijan and Armenia began missile strikes against each others positions along a front line that has been frozen since a territorial war between the former Soviet republics in the 1990s. On Thursday, the American, Russian and French presidents together called on both sides to cease hostilities.
The president of the European Commission - Thierry Monasse /Getty Images Europe

The European Commission today launched legal action against the United Kingdom, after MPs passed the Internal Market Bill, which overrides parts of the Brexit divorce treaty.

Brussels had set Britain an end of month deadline to withdraw clauses in the Bill relating to Northern Ireland, which it said broke the Withdrawal Agreement and international law.

On Monday, the Commission said it would not be shy in taking legal remedies unless the UK backed down over the provisions on state aid and export declarations on goods from mainland Britain to Northern Ireland.

Downing Street refused the same day and the Bill was passed on Tuesday night by 340 votes to 256 and will now go to the House of Lords.

Ursula von der Leyen, the president of the European Commission, said, "We had invited our British friends to remove the problematic parts of their draft Internal Market Bill, by the end of September.

"This draft bill is by its very nature, a breach of the obligation of good faith, laid down in the Withdrawal Agreement. Moreover, if adopted as is it will be in full contradiction to the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland.

She added,"The deadline lapsed yesterday. The problematic provisions have not been removed. Therefore this morning, the Commission has decided to send a letter of formal notice to the UK Government. This is the first step in an infringement procedure."

The lawsuit begins a lengthy process that could ultimately end in the European Court of Justice in Luxembourg. The EUs top court could then impose hefty, daily fines until the law was changed.

The UK now has a month to respond to the formal letter of notice before the next stage of the process to punish breaches of EU law by member states. Infringement proceedings take on average 35 months to complete.

In practice there is plenty of time for Britain to agree a trade deal with the EU before the UK is taken to the European Court of Justice.

Story continues

If there is a trade deal agreed by the end of October, many of the concerns the Bill seeks to solve will fade away, Simon Coveney, Irelands foreign minister, said on Monday.

As part of the Withdrawal Agreement, the UK agreed to be bound by decisions of the court on cases begun before the end of the transition period on December 31 for four years.

A UK spokesperson said, "We will respond to the letter in due course. We have clearly set out our reasons for introducing the measures related to the Northern Ireland Protocol.

"We need to create a legal safety net to protect the integrity of the UKs internal market, ensure Ministers can always deliver on their obligations to Northern Ireland and protect the gains from the peace process.

Mrs von der Leyen said that work with the UK would continue to ensure that the Withdrawal Agreement was fully implemented, including the new customs arrangements in Northern Ireland, by the January 1 deadline of the end of the transition period.

"We stand by our commitments," she said before meeting Micheal Martin, the Irish prime minister, for talks. Mr Martin is in Brussels for todays European Council summit.

The commission could also bring separate action through enforcement mechanisms in the Withdrawal Agreement. These could result in fines or parts of any future trade deal being suspended, if a panels rulings are ignored.

In the immediate aftermath of the controversy over the Bill, Mrs von der Leyen had warned that trade negotiations with the UK, which continue in Brussels today, were at risk.

Since then the EU has looked to decouple the trade talks from the row over the Brexit treaty and continue negotiations.

A senior EU diplomat said that any final trade deal will be conditional on the UK withdrawing all of the offending provisions of the Internal Market Bill.

"The Internal Market Bill would have to be withdrawn," the source said in Brussels before adding it was implausible to expect the EU to agree to any new deal, when it had undermined the Brexit treaty.

The diplomat said that if the forthcoming Finance Bill was tabled and broke international law and the Withdrawal Agreement, it would be an "extremely serious situation".
Infection rate begins to slow in sign tighter restrictions are working, major study finds

The Covid-19 infection rate is starting to slow after tighter restrictions came into force, results from the country's largest study into the virus has found.

The R rate appears to have fallen from 1.7 to around 1.1 this month based on early results from a study by Imperial College London and Ipsos Mori.

The director of the programme said this could mean efforts to control the virus could be working and that this reinforced the need for protective measures.

PM's father and Jeremy Corbyn caught breaking coronavirus rules

Boris Johnson's father has apologised after he was pictured shopping without wearing a face covering in west London.

Stanley Johnson said he was "extremely sorry" after he was caught perusing the shelves at a newsagents on Tuesday, without a covering over his mouth and nose.

Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has also been caught breaking coronavirus rules as he was pictured at a dinner party for nine people.

The MP for Islington North has since apologised for his mistake, acknowledging that he breached the strict rule of six measures.

Spain orders Madrid lockdown amid resurgence of coronavirus cases

The Spanish government has ordered a lockdown in the capital Madrid and surrounding areas badly affected by Covid-19 following a spike in cases.

Residents will be barred from leaving except on essential trips under the new rules set to come into force in the coming days.

As the the move to introduce new measures on the countrys capital were announced, local authorities complained the decision had no legal basis.

Debate commission promises changes after chaotic exchange between Trump and Biden

Changes will be made to the debate process after Donald Trump and Joe Biden engaged in a fiery exchange full of insults and interruptions.

The long-awaited battle between the US leader and former vice president in Cleveland resulted in an event that was lacking in policy discussion as Mr Trump repeatedly interrupted his rival.

The debate commission is yet to make clear what changes will be made but, according to reports, the possibility of turning off a candidates microphone when rules are violated is being considered.

Britons brace for three days of downpours

Heavy rain and powerful 65mph winds are set to lash the UK from today as storms move in from Europe.

Britons are expected to be hit with downpours and gales along the coasts until Saturday, with the Met Office issuing a yellow warning for tomorrow.

It will come as Storm Alex - named by the French meteorological service - moves across northern France and into the Channel.

Alex is set to bring potential flooding, large waves and delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport to southern England.

Most of the UK will see downpours across the three-day period.

Kevin Hart and Eniko Parrish welcome second child

Kevin Hart and his wife Eniko Parrish have welcomed their second child together.

Parrish, who married Hollywood comedian and actor Hart in 2016, announced on social media she had given birth to a daughter.

Writing that she is "thankful, grateful, blessed," the 36-year-old model said the baby's name is Kaori Mai Hart.

On this day...

1843: The News of the World was first published.

1868: The Midland Railway opened St Pancras station in London.

1880: The Edison Lamp Works began operations in New Jersey to manufacture the first electric light bulbs.

1890: Master of the monologue Stanley Holloway was born in London.

1908: Henry Ford introduced the model T car at a price of 850 dollars. Within 18 years, production techniques reduced that to 300 dollars. He is rumoured to have told customers, "You can have any colour you want as long as it's black".

1918: Arab forces under Emir Faisal, and including British officer TE Lawrence, captured Damascus from the Turks.

1969: Concorde 001 broke the sound barrier for the first time during a test flight in France.
Mazda Reports September 2020 Sales Results







IRVINE, Calif. (Oct. 1, 2020)  Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported total September sales of 24,237 vehicles, an increase of 28.7 percent compared to September 2019. Year-to-date sales totaled 203,280 vehicles; a decrease of 2.3 percent compared to the same time last year. With 25 selling days in September, compared to 23 the year prior, the company posted an increase of 18.4 percent on a Daily Selling Rate (DSR) basis.

Sales Highlights

Sales of the CX-5 saw its best September since launch with 13,582 vehicles sold.

Sales of the CX-9 saw its best September since 2011 with 2,183 vehicles sold.

Sales of the MX-5 saw its best September since 2015 with 862 vehicles sold.

CPO sales totaled 6,016 vehicles in September, an increase of 35 percent compared to August 2019, and achieved its best September.

Mazda Motor de Mexico (MMdM) reported September sales of 4,089 vehicles, a decrease 4.8 percent compared to September last year. Year-to-date sales decreased 28.3 percent, with 31,078 vehicles sold.

Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, California, and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States and Mexico through approximately 620 dealers. Operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.
Amazon on Thursday said that slightly more than 19,800 of its employees have tested positive for Covid-19 since the start of March.

Data on the e-commerce giant's 1.37 million frontline workers, including those at its Whole Foods Market grocery stores in the United States, showed a lower infection rate than expected, Amazon said.

The release of the figure comes as some workers in logistics centers have criticized the company's safeguards to protect them from the pandemic as well as its reluctance to share information about colleagues who get infected.

Amazon has ramped up testing to 50,000 a day across 650 sites, according to the Seattle-based company.

"Since the beginning of this crisis, we've worked hard to keep our employees informed, notifying them of every new case in their building," Amazon said in a blog post sharing Covid-19 infection rates among its frontline workers.

If the rate of infection among Amazon and Whole Foods workers were the same as the general US population, the number of cases would have topped 33,000, according to the company.

Amazon workers have been asking for Covid-19 infection rates at company facilities since early in the pandemic, according to labor and migrant activist coalition Athena.

"Now we know why the corporation refused," said Athena director Dania Rajendra.

"Amazon allowed Covid-19 to spread like wildfire in its facilities."

Rajendra called for an investigation into Covid-19 spread at Amazon workplaces by public health officials.

"Amazon is, in no uncertain terms, a threat to public health," Rajendra said.

gc/ch
(Photo : Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) Facebook co-founder, Chairman and CEO Mark Zuckerberg testifies before the House Energy and Commerce Committee in the Rayburn House Office Building on Capitol Hill April 11, 2018 in Washington, DC. This is the second day of testimony before Congress by Zuckerberg, 33, after it was reported that 87 million Facebook users had their personal information harvested by Cambridge Analytica, a British political consulting firm linked to the Trump campaign. (Photo : Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images) Twitter chief executive officer Jack Dorsey takes his seat as he arrives for a House Committee on Energy and Commerce hearing about Twitter's transparency and accountability, on Capitol Hill, September 5, 2018 in Washington, DC. Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey and Facebook chief operating officer Sheryl Sandberg faced questions about how foreign operatives use their platforms in attempts to influence and manipulate public opinion. (Photo : Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images) Google CEO Sundar Pichai testifies before the House Judiciary Committee at the Rayburn House Office Building on December 11, 2018 in Washington, DC. The committee held a hearing on 'Transparency & Accountability: Examining Google and its Data Collection, Use and Filtering Practices.

A Senate panel has officially voted on Thursday, Oct. 1, to send subpoenas to the CEOs of Facebook, Google, and Twitter. This was to force them to be in court to testify before the panel's concerns over the internet giants' business model. It was also said to be in relation with Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act.

Zuckerberg, Pichai, and Dorsey are being summoned

The Senate Commerce Committee voted unanimously to force appearances by Mark Zuckerberg, Sundar Pichai, and Jack Dorsey to the court.

This was after the U.S. court failed to reach agreements with the companies to send the CEOs voluntarily. The committee is expected to ask questions about the companies' media consolidations or their sides over the possible changes to a law known as Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act.

This law is called the "foundation pillar of the Internet," that protects companies from lawsuits over their user content.

CNN reported that lawmakers have been trying to amend the provision, especially before elections come. However, there is still no accuracy on the things they wanted to change on the law.

Washington Sen. Maria Cantwell, the top Democrat on the committee, initially opposed the subpoena introduced by Chairman Roger Wicker, R-Miss.

She stressed out that one thing she "doesn't want to see is a chilling effect on individuals who are in the process of trying to crack down on hate speech or misinformation about COVID during a pandemic."

Biased for Republicans?

Bloomberg reported that many thought this subpoena was a Republican-led effort to focus on how conservatives say. Section 230 enables companies to silence right-wing viewpoints.

However, lawmakers have clarified that Democrats and Republicans are both tech giants' victims due to the companies' dominance on speech or data.

As of now, Facebook, Google, nor Twitter have not yet answered the subpoena.

ALSO READ: FTC Will File Antitrust Case Against Facebook Over WhatsApp and Instagram Takeover, Despite Previously Approving These Acquisitions

This article is owned by Tech Times

Written by Jamie Pancho

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Over 230 Vietnamese citizens return home from Thailand

More than 230 Vietnamese citizens from Thailand were brought home on a repatriation flight which landed safely at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City on October 1.















Vietnamese citizens wait for a repatriation flight. Photo by VOV.







According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the flight was arranged by authorities of the two countries and the national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines.



Passengers include children aged under 18, the elderly, the ill, pregnant women, stranded tourists, workers whose visas or labour contracts expired, students with no residences due to dormitory closures and those in extremely difficult circumstances.



After landing at the airport, all passengers and crew members of the flight were given health check-ups and sent to quarantine areas.



To date, more than 140 repatriation flights have been arranged by Vietnamese authorities since April 10 to help over 50,000 local people stranded abroad due to Covid-19 return home, the ministry said, adding that more such flights are set to be conducted in the coming time.
This is one in a series of stories that are part of Swing County, Swing State, a collaborative project between lehighvalleylive.com and nj.com that explores Northampton Countys critical role in the upcoming presidential election.

On inauguration day in 2017, SCC Concrete held a watch party at their Lopatcong Township headquarters, complete with a red, white and blue cake that proclaimed God bless Donald Trump.

Owner Rocky Stine said hell do it again if the president wins re-election. And while pollsters give Joe Biden the edge in November, theres little question how Stine and the majority of his neighbors in Warren County will be voting.

I see more and more Trump signs and flags, Stine said. In this county, he estimated, Its going to be a landslide.

Hes got history, not just lawn signs, to back up the prediction.

Warren County is one of New Jerseys most consistently Republican counties, favoring the GOP candidate in every presidential race for more than 50 years.

Its an outlier in New Jersey, which has soundly supported Democrats for president in every race since it went for George H. W. Bush in 1988. Only two counties, Ocean and Sussex, went more red than Warren County in the 2016 election, when Warren County favored Trump over Hillary Clinton by 26 points.

Which is why it might be a bit surprising that just across the Delaware River is a Pennsylvania county that has long been viewed as one of the most important swing counties in the country when it comes to presidential races. Voters in Northampton County have flipped for different parties over the years but almost always end up picking the winner. In the last century, theyve backed the winning presidential candidate all but three times.

So how is it that one of the most solidly purple counties in the region  inundated by politicians and pollsters every four years  shares a border with a Republican stronghold where no Democratic presidential candidate would bother to campaign?

Matt Krayton, a Democratic political consultant, said it is not uncommon that neighboring counties end up having such different politics.

It happens all the time, especially if youre crossing state lines, he said.

Get the latest updates from the Swing County, Swing State project sent to your inbox.



A look a section of Donaldson's Farm along Allen Road and Harmony Lane in Warren County, NJ. on Sept. 25, 2020. Saed Hindash | For lehighvalleyl

Krayton, founder of the Caldwell public relations firm Publitics, said it generally comes down to the demographics. A place as rural, white and blue-collar as Warren County fits the profile for voting Republican.

Though Northampton County has similar education and income levels, it is slightly more diverse and has bigger cities with new industries and a lower cost of living that has lured new residents from parts of New York and New Jersey. Voters' values here have evolved over the years, but many are moderates who sometimes split the ticket, backing candidates from different parties.

The identity of the Warren County voter  just like the relationship Warren County has with the Lehigh Valley and the rest of the state  is also complicated.

Theyre independent thinkers, said James Kern III, 32, a Republican freeholder.

He noted Warren County voters have been known to snub the big party candidates. They backed Steve Longegan over Chris Christie for governor in 2008, and voters in the 2016 Democratic primary picked Bernie Sanders over Clinton. He thinks that independent spirit is why Trump  who portrayed himself as a party politics outsider in 2016  appealed to them so much.

Locally, they tend to elect fiscal conservatives who want to keep government small, according to Doug Steinhardt, state Republican Committee chairman and a five-term mayor of Lopatcong.

We have some of the lowest debt in the state, Steinhardt said.

Theres no sign of Northampton Countys purpleness rubbing off on its neighbor in New Jersey. But the proximity is affecting Warren County and its politics in one new way: as the Lehigh Valley gets built up with more warehouse and distribution centers thanks to its strategic location, developers have started looking east.

Theyve proposed similar projects in Warren County, near I-80 in the north and I-78 in the south, but it remains to be seen if the county  and its voters  will allow this shift for the rural county.

More than one big farm

Some parts of Warren County feel like they could be stuck in time, or straight out of the rolling hills of Iowa. Just 50 miles from Manhattan, fields of corn and hay stretch for miles, livestock graze in pastures and in some areas, you see more farm supply stores than fast food joints.

The Warren County Farmers Fair is the event of the year, and campaigning local politicians dont miss it. Recent posts in a local Facebook group offered chicken feed for sale and a very friendly pet rooster, free to a good home.

Spectators watch the Tractor Pull competition during the Warren County Farmers Fair on July 31, 2019. Saed Hindash | For lehighvalleylive.com

Chris Vitalos, a board member of the county Democratic Committee who moved to Washington Borough 15 years ago, said the area has an old-timey charm.

I grew up in the Lehigh Valley and it was rural then, lots of cornfields, and now I go there and its warehouses, Vitalos said. But I see Warren County as being what the Lehigh Valley was 30 or 40 years ago.

Kern said people tend to imagine the county as one big farm, but theres more to it than that.

From the industrial legacy of Phillipsburg and Hackettstowns hip college-town vibe, to the Delaware Water Gap bordering the Poconos region, Warren County contains multitudes in its 363 square miles.

Likewise, the identity of the areas approximately 105,000 residents varies. Phillipsburg residents might feel more like an extension of the Lehigh Valley across the river, farmers in the southern part of the county might feel more connected to Hunterdon County and young people in Hackettstown might see it more as an extension of Morris County, Kern said.

And given the very different, very Democratic politics that dominate state government, for many it can feel like the goings-on in Trenton are a world away, instead of just 40 miles away.

The county is more blue-collar than some of its neighbors. Nearby counties of Hunterdon, Morris and Somerset have the highest median household incomes in the state, while Warren County ranks squarely in the middle of the pack.

Its also cheaper to own a home there than in neighboring New Jersey counties, according to 2018 census data on median homeowner costs. Those costs are substantially lower across the river in Northampton County, the data shows.

And while the population in Northampton County has been rising along with the revitalization of Easton and Bethlehem, its been declining in Warren County. The county lost roughly 3,400 residents since 2010, or about 3% of its population, according to 2019 census estimates.

Its something several politicians attributed to the loss of big employers over the years, including big plants like Ingersoll-Rand that used to employ generations of residents in Phillipsburg. As businesses move elsewhere, so do residents.

Steinhardt said there is not a lot of economic development creating job opportunities, so many people commute elsewhere for work. But he thinks for a lot them, thats part of the areas charm.

Its a place thats convenient enough to get to those urban centers if you want to get to them, but when you come home, you come home to just a totally different lifestyle," he said.

The county has not drawn as many Big Apple commuters as you might think, given its a little more than an hours drive to New York City, and the property prices and taxes are much cheaper than closer counties.

Its something Vitalos attributes to the lack of easy or speedy public transit to the city. The Montclair-Boonton line comes to Hackettstown on the countys easternmost point, but its more than two hours to the city.

What do Warren County voters see for their future?

This farm right here is being sold to a developer, almost 100 acres, Joel Schnetzer said, jabbing a finger at the soybean fields passing by his farm trucks drivers side window on a recent Saturday morning.

A third-generation farmer, Schnetzer will lose the soybean field he rents in Washington Township. But he hates to see any developers eat up the good cropland, especially when they get municipal tax deals to do it.

We all know theres less farmland every day. You cant remake it, he said.

Joel Schnetzer looks over his hereford cows on his 300-acre farm in Franklin Township, N.J. Sept. 19, 2020.Rebecca Everett | For NJ.com

Seldat Inc., an international distribution company, wants to build a mixed-use development on the land near Route 31 featuring light industry, 2,000 housing units and businesses to serve the needs of the worker-residents. The company is asking the township to approve its plans and a 30-year payment-in-lieu-of-taxes agreement.

The fact is, the Lehigh Valley is flourishing, in part thanks to favorable tax deals for developers and less restrictions, according to Kern. As Northampton County is built out, some developers are looking to rural spots in Warren County as the next frontier.

Whether the county will embrace the same efforts to draw new industry and residents remains to be seen, but Valley developer Jaindl Land Co.'s proposal for an 800,000-square-foot warehouse in White Township is facing opposition from local and county politicians and residents on both sides of the aisle.

But in Phillipsburg, redevelopment is welcomed. Mayor Todd M. Tersigni touts the creation of Bridge Point 78, a sprawling 2.8 million-square-foot warehouse complex on the former Ingersoll-Rand site billed as the Lehigh Valley alternative."

The population I believe will increase now, because of these jobs, he said.

This September 2019 photo shows construction on the Bridge Point 78 warehouses in Phillipsburg and Lopatcong Township, on the former Ingersoll Rand property. Steve Novak | For lehighvalleylive.com

Its not entirely clear how interested residents are in drawing jobs, and new people, elsewhere in the county. Steinhardt said people here like smaller government and the quiet life, even if that means traveling for work or other things. And he doesnt want anyone moving here from a more urban area to expect to change that.

To the extent that people move out to Warren County, moving away from all the things that made their communities more expensive and congested, weve done a good job over the last 16 years to make sure that those people dont bring those types of changes with them, he said. So the county has remained relatively affordable.

Are Warren Countys politics evolving?

County voter rolls tell a story of an electorate thats becoming more polarized.

While more than half of the countys voters were unaffiliated 15 years ago, that number is now a third, as thousands more Republicans and Democrats registered to vote or switched their affiliation.

Fifteen years ago, registered Republicans outnumbered Democrats 2:1, but as of Sept. 1, the ratio is more like 3:2.

Steinhardt and Kern see the pendulum swinging more conservative during the Trump era, pointing to traditionally-Democratic Phillipsburg electing a Republican mayor, Tersigni, and several councilors last year.

You see a lot of Trump signs  some homemade ones, Kern said. I dont see a lot of Biden signs, but hell get 40% of the vote in the county, so it is here.

The number of voters in both parties has increased over the last 20 years, but Democrats have doubled their ranks while Republicans saw a 75% increase.

Different people have moved here. Different voters, said Ethel Conry, a Democrat and the first Black woman on the Washington Borough Council. She moved from New York City and said she knows other transplants from South Plainfield, Orange and Scotch Plains.

Liberals have also been more visible lately. As like many places across the country, activists have rallied in the borough and Phillipsburg in the wake of the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis.

The area is becoming gradually more diverse, with its minority population growing by 5% from 2010 to 2019, according to census data. Conry said she and her children experienced racism years ago, but shes seen things improve since then.

Ive lived here 31 years and it has changed quite a bit, she said.

A view of Washington Avenue in Washington Borough, N.J., on Sept. 25, 2020. Saed Hindash | For lehighvalleyl

Both Kern and Conry agree, on a local level, many people vote for who they think is best for the job, and they dont care for party politics getting in the way.

And for any party diehards who wants to effect change in national politics  given the near certainty that the county will vote for Trump in November  they can always make the short drive across the river to Northampton County for rallies and campaigning.

Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription.

Rebecca Everett may be reached at reverett@njadvancemedia.com. Tell us your coronavirus story or send a tip here.
Tractor rally

Chandigarh: Joined by Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will lead tractor rallies across Punjab from October 3 to 5, in protest against the Centres brutal, unconstitutional and anti-farmer Agriculture laws.

All Punjab ministers and Congress MLAs will participate in the protest rallies, along with AICC General Secretary in-charge of Punjab affairs, Harish Rawat, and PPCC president Sunil Jakhar, to give voice to the angst and pain of the farmers, whose livelihood and future has been put at stake by the central legislations.

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Captain Amarinder Singh and Rahul Gandhi

The tractor rallies, expected to be supported by farmer organisations across the state, will cover more than 50 kms, spread over three days in various districts and constituencies, according to a Punjab Congress spokesperson. The tractor rallies are scheduled at around 11 a.m. on each of the three days, and will be conducted amid strict Covid protocols.

The protest rally on Day 1 (October 3, Saturday), will cover a total distance of 22 kms, starting with a public meeting at Badni Kalan (Nihal Singh Wala, District Moga), before moving through through Lopon (Nihal Singh Wala).

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The rally will then move into Jagraon (District Ludhiana), where it will be received at Chakar, Lakha and Manoke, culminating eventually in a public meeting Jattpura (Raikot, District Ludhiana).

Capt Amarinder SinghOn Day 2 (October 4, Sunday), a total of 20 kms would be covered, beginning with a Reception at Barnala Chowk, Sangrur, from where Rahul and his team will travel by car to Bhawanigarh for a public meeting, before embarking on tractors to Samana (District Patiala), where Receptions will be held at Fatehgarh Chhana and Bahmna, before ending the day with a public meeting at Grain Market, Samana.

On Monday (October 5), the protest will begin from Dudhan Sadhan (District Patiala) with a public meeting, and the tractors will then travel 10 kms to Pehowa Border, from where Team Rahul will enter Haryana, for a series of programmes there.
The fact that Nigerian kids today are not excited about Nigerias independence anniversary is a pointer to how bad things are in the country, a Nigerian lawyer has said.

When we were growing up, Nigerias Independence Day was such a big deal, the lawyer, David Augustine, told PREMIUM TIMES, Wednesday.

Today, even the young ones in primary and secondary schools do not seem to have anything special about the day. Today existential concerns now occupy every moment of our lives.

Mr Augustine, an Uyo-based lawyer, spoke with PREMIUM TIMES on the 60th independence anniversary of Nigeria.

The lawyer said since its independence from British rule in 1960, Nigeria has been grappling with myriads of problems, but the challenges have today escalated to a point where tensions could be felt in every area of our national life.

The stress is so much that even those in government today are beginning to express open worries. Our country is turned into pieces by ethnoreligious and regional tensions. There are wide spread fears and suspicions everywhere.

The much-needed unity continues to be elusive. Hatred and divisiveness are now openly canvassed and discussed, even among our leaders. Life is shrinking and discontent has become our everyday reality.

He attributed Nigerias problems to corruption and poor political leadership.

We have progressed to a two party system that emerged, not from the legal enactment of the Babangida era, but from the people of Nigeria. That is a remarkable evolution.

We have, however, in practice seen two parties that are essentially the same in every other thing. We have a democracy that has no philosophy, a democracy lacking in ideology. The result is that we have a polity where power is rotated among politicians who rule without any direction; politicians who exercise authority with no ideology.

We have a country where one can wake up a member of one party and go to bed at night the same day as a member of the opposing party. We are running a democracy where money is the only denominator; where corruption is not seen as anything to be ashamed of. We are in a democracy where development has no direction; where the people are of no consequence to those in power.

He said Nigeria could overcome its challenges if it gets the right leadership.

PREMIUM TIMES asked Mr Augustine if he thinks the agitation for the independent state of Biafra would slow down if the South-east produces a president in 2023.

He responded: A Nigerian president of Igbo extraction is a good idea, only to the extent that it would massage the ego of being carried along and provide a platform for their elites to also sit on the bazaar table to share the proverbial national cake. If not, the concerns that fuel the agitation will not likely disappear.

The South-east is today no longer the only region agitating. The middle belt and the South-west have joined.

He added, The reality of Nigeria is that the elites use ethnic subterfuge to cover their desire to perpetually rule. Being Nigeria president from any region has not led to any significant change in the lives of the ordinary citizens of those regions. How has Jonathans six years presidency helped the people of the South-south? How has the regime of Gen Obasanjo been of major life-changing benefits to the people of South-west and how has the long years of military and civilian leadership of the North benefited the northerners? The story of poverty, deprivation and utter hopelessness still pervade those zones.

I am praying for the time we shall really evolve into a country only divided by workable ideologies and not pulled apart by tribal, regional and religious bigotry. We need a new nation where justice and equality will always prevail no matter where the president comes from.
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01.10.2020 LISTEN

Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has reiterated that this years general elections would be based on the trust that the electorates have for the leaders of the two main parties.

Addressing residents of Accra Newton on Wednesday as part of his four-day campaign tour of the Greater Region, Dr. Bawumia said the Akufo-Addo led government has transformed the Ghanaian economy in terms of digitization and infrastructure.

And I know that when it comes to the matter of trust and track record comparison, there is no doubt in my mind that the NPP will win the 2020 elections.

But the December general elections, he said, is about comparing the records of the two parties.

He said the NDC Presidential candidate is indecisive and therefore cannot lead Ghana again.

He said Mr. Mahama on many occasions spoke against the implementation of the free Senior High School policy and the payment of teacher training allowances but now says he will continue such policies should he be given the opportunity to lead Ghana again.

---KingdomfmOnline
Residents of New York and some surrounding states can now use their smartphones to track whether they have come close to someone with the coronavirus.

New York and New Jersey on Thursday released apps that use new technology from Apple and Google that detects nearby phones and can notify people if they spent time with someone who was later tested positive for the virus.

New York and New Jersey are the latest states to enable its residents to use the technology, joining at least eight other states: Alabama, Delaware, Nevada, North Carolina, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Wyoming. [An earlier version of this article included an inaccurate list of the states.]

Residents of those states can turn on so-called exposure notifications in their phones settings. Depending on the phone, people might have to download an app run by their state.
U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo arrived Thursday at the Vatican to meet with top Holy See officials, a day after tensions over American opposition to the Vaticans China policy spilled out in public.

Pompeo was meeting with the Vatican secretary of state, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, and the foreign minister, Archbishop Paul Gallagher. The Vatican declined his request to see Pope Francis, citing Holy See policy to not grant papal audiences during election campaigns, Parolin said.

Pompeo was in Rome to participate in a conference on religious freedom organized by the U.S. Embassy to the Holy See, and to meet with Italian and Vatican officials.

During the Wednesday conference, Pompeo urged the Vatican to join the U.S. in denouncing violations of religious freedom in China, part of the U.S. campaign to criticize Beijing's crackdown on religious and ethnic minorities that has increased amid the coronavirus pandemic and before the Nov. 3 election.

The conference was organized at the same time the Vatican is entering into delicate negotiations with Beijing on extending their controversial 2018 agreement on nominating bishops for China.

The Vatican is seeking to extend the accord, which envisages a process of dialogue in selecting bishops. It signed it in 2018 in hopes it would help unite China's Catholics, who for seven decades have been split between those belonging to an official, state-sanctioned church and an underground church loyal to Rome.

Pompeo has strongly criticized the accord, penning an essay earlier this month suggesting that the Vatican had compromised its moral authority by signing it. His article greatly irritated the Vatican, which saw it as interference in the churchs internal affairs for the sake of scoring domestic political points.

The Vatican secretary of state, Parolin, said the Holy See was surprised by Pompeos article. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the conference, Parolin said the private meetings Pompeo had scheduled at the Vatican would have been the more appropriate setting to express his concerns, Italian news agency ANSA reported.

Pompeo started his day Thursday visiting the Rome-based SantEgidio Community, a Catholic charity active in caring for refugees in Italy and providing HIV-AIDS care in Africa. Arriving at SantEgidios headquarters, Pompeo praised the groups efforts as the Lords work.
Phil Murphy is officially beginning his bid for second term as New Jerseys governor.

The Democrat announced Thursday he will file paperwork with the states Election Law Enforcement Commission to open a candidate account that allows him and Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver to begin raising money for re-election in the 2021 race.

Filing with ELEC is a procedural step that will allow our campaign to legally begin raising money for the 2021 Primary Election, Murphy campaign spokeswoman Caitlin Mota said. Governor Murphy remains focused on leading New Jersey through the COVID-19 pandemic and building a stronger and fairer economy for every family.

A re-election campaign isnt a surprise. Its long been expected that Murphy, a 63-year-old Middletown resident, will seek a second term.

But this makes it formal, even though its not a grand declaration. Murphy is likely to make a broader in-person announcement in the coming months.

For now, Murphys campaign will be primarily a fundraising operation, with the governor focused on helping former Vice President Joe Biden, a longtime friend, in his race against President Donald Trump, and to help Democrats win up and down the ballot in Novembers elections, Mota said.

Murphy, of course, first has to win the Democratic primary next June to win his partys nomination. There have been whispers for more than a year that he may face a primary challenge. But hes right now considered the heavy favorite, with approval ratings that have skyrocketed in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

Only one candidate, former state Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli, has announced a bid for the Republican nomination for governor. But others have said they are considering campaigns  including Assembly Minority Leader Jon Bramnick and state party chairman Doug Steinhardt.

Murphy, a former U.S. ambassador to Germany and a retired investment banking executive at Wall Street firm Goldman Sachs, defeated former Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno in 2017 to succeed Republican Gov. Chris Christie.

That gave Democrats control of both the state Legislature and the governors office, though Murphy  a proud progressive  has often clashed with the more moderate top lawmakers in his party.

In his first term, Murphy and the Legislature have enacted laws raising the minimum wage, instituting equal pay, guaranteeing sick pay, tightening gun control, and more.

But two of Murphys top campaign promises  a millionaires tax and legalized marijuana  stalled in his first two years. Plus, polls showed Murphy had lukewarm recognition with residents even though registered Democrats outnumber registered Republicans by more than 1 million in the state.

Murphys cache, however, has risen this year in the wake of the pandemic, with the governor appearing regularly on television and his poll numbers rising into the 60s and 70s.

In addition, Murphy worked out a deal with top Democrats to finally install his millionaires tax in the new state budget he signed Tuesday. (New Jersey voters will decided in the Nov. 3 election if the state will legalize marijuana.)

Despite Murphys rise in popularity, Republicans have been hammered him over his handling of COVID-19, which has claimed the lives of more than 16,000 residents. They have repeatedly criticized him for months-long restrictions that they argue violate residents' rights, as well as over long lines at Motor Vehicle Commission centers and the deaths of more than 7,000 residents at nursing homes and other longterm care facilities.

Republicans have also blasted Murphy over toll hikes, tax increases, and investigations into his administrations handling of a rape allegation and patronage hires.

Phil Murphy has made New Jersey less affordable, less livable, and less free, Steinhardt, chairman of the Republican State Committee, said in a statement Thursday. Nine million New Jerseyans deserve a government that wont embarrass them on the national stage, and doesnt hold our state back from being a land of opportunity and freedom.

If he wins next Nov. 2, Murphy would be the first Democratic New Jersey governor elected to a second term since Brendan Byrne in 1977.

There have been rumors Biden could offer Murphy a cabinet position or an ambassadorship if he defeats Trump for the White House. But Murphy told NJ Advance Media in December theres zero chance hed take a cabinet post. And hes since repeated his intention to remain governor, especially amid the pandemic.

My job is New Jersey, and I cant imagine, even in peacetime, I cant imagine another job," Murphy said in August. "But certainly not under the circumstances in which we find ourselves.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.

Brent Johnson may be reached at bjohnson@njadvancemedia.com.
In a secret letter to President Donald Trump in December 2018, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un likened the two leaders' budding friendship to a Hollywood romance. Future meetings with "Your Excellency," Kim wrote to Trump, would be "reminiscent of a scene from a fantasy film."

Yet even as he penned the words, Kim was busy creating an illusion of a different kind. At six of the country's missile bases, trucks hauled rock from underground construction sites as workers dug a maze of new tunnels and bunkers, allowing North Korea to move weapons around like peas in a shell game. Southeast of the capital, meanwhile, new buildings sprouted across an industrial complex that was processing uranium for as many as 15 new bombs, according to current and former U.S. and South Korean officials, as well as a report by a United Nations panel of experts.

The new work reflects a continuation of a pattern observed by analysts since the first summit between Trump and Kim in 2018. While North Korea has refrained from carrying out provocative tests of its most advanced weapons systems, it never stopped working on them, U.S. intelligence officials said. Indeed, new evidence suggests that Kim took advantage of the lull by improving his ability to hide his most powerful weapons and shield them from future attacks.

The pause in testing has produced benefits for both leaders, despite the lack of tangible progress toward the stated goal of the United States in any accord: a denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula in exchange for ending crippling economic sanctions against the North. Kim's show of restraint has allowed Trump to claim a partial foreign-policy success, even as administration officials acknowledge that North Korea has not eliminated a single bomb or dismantled any of its missile factories.

For Kim's part, the easing of tensions has opened new routes for circumventing sanctions while his factories quietly churn out more nuclear warheads and bigger missiles to carry them, current and former U.S. intelligence analysts and nuclear experts say.

"North Korea hasn't stopped building nuclear weapons or developing missiles systems; they've just stopped displaying them," said Jeffrey Lewis, director of the East Asia Nonproliferation Program at the Center for Nonproliferation Studies in Monterey, Calif. "They stopped doing the things that made bad news cycles for Trump."

The result, two years after the start of Trump's unconventional peace overture, is a North Korea that U.S. officials say is better armed, with a growing nuclear arsenal scattered across a network of bunkers newly hardened against a potential U.S. airstrike. Kim meanwhile has gained an advantage that has eluded other North Korean leaders: a personal friendship with a U.S. president - one in which Trump describes Kim admiringly and shows off what he has called "love letters" exchanged between the two leaders. The contents of dozens of letters were revealed last month by journalist Bob Woodward in his book, "Rage."

Some experts see signs that Kim is losing patience with diplomacy and may be preparing to revert to more aggressive behavior, including possible tests or displays of new weapons. But many analysts believe that such provocations are not likely to occur until after Nov. 3, because of Kim's apparent wish to avoid undermining Trump's reelection chances.

"In theory, an 'October surprise' - some form of provocation - could be in play, but this is not a normal election year," Sue Mi Terry, a former senior analyst on North Korea for the CIA, said at a North Korea policy forum last week. "From Kim Jong Un's perspective, he still prefers to deal with Trump."

- - -

By any objective measure, the risk of imminent hostilities with North Korea has receded since Trump's controversial decision to pursue personal diplomacy with Kim. In the early months of the Trump presidency, North Korea conducted its sixth nuclear test, detonating a powerful new weapon believed by experts to be a hydrogen bomb. It also successfully launched two new types of intercontinental ballistic missiles, one of which was judged capable of reaching cities on the U.S. East Coast.

Diplomacy between Washington and Pyongyang meanwhile devolved into name-calling. Trump publicly derided the North Korean leader as "Rocket Man," while the U.S. president was mocked in official North Korean communiques as a "dotard." In recorded interviews for Woodward's book, Trump acknowledged that the two countries narrowly avoided war in 2017, inching closer to the edge than Americans knew at the time.

Trump's announcement that he would meet unconditionally with a North Korean leader - something previous presidents, Republican and Democrat, had declined to do - was greeted skeptically by many arms-control experts. It was clear that the highly theatrical 2018 Singapore summit was mostly symbolic, as the talks failed to produce a substantive agreement, or even a shared understanding of what a "denuclearization" of the Korean Peninsula actually meant.

Still, many critics of the summit would later credit Trump's team for its willingness to try something different.

"We had never tested whether the negotiation hypothesis - the idea that talking to the leader directly about denuclearization - could work," said Victor Cha, director of Asian affairs at the White House National Security Council during the George W. Bush administration. "We had never tried that."

Even though disarmament talks quickly stalled, the lessening of tensions was a significant and undeniable achievement. The "strategic patience" doctrine adopted by the Obama administration over the previous eight years had proved unsuccessful in slowing North Korea's pursuit of nuclear weapons and advanced missiles, noted John Delury, a professor at Yonsei University in Seoul.

"The logic behind engaging Kim Jong Un was sound and remains sound," Delury said. "Trump was able to get certain things done."

Yet despite two additional summits the following year, talks on eliminating North Korea's nuclear arsenal produced little more than token gestures. Trump basked in the media spotlight when he crossed the Korean demilitarized zone to shake hands with Kim, but the author of "The Art of the Deal" could not persuade Kim to open his weapons bunkers for inspection, or to part with his nuclear weapons, estimated by U.S. intelligence officials at between 40 and 60. Those officials concluded that Kim never intended to give up his arsenal, which the dictator views as the ultimate guarantor of his regime's survival.

"There was the willingness to engage at the high level, but then it kind of crumbled from there," Delury said. "Trump's chaotic and distracted theatrics of politics meant that it didn't really create a lasting process."

- - -

Still, more than a year after the last summit, North Korea's unilateral freeze on nuclear and ICBM testing remains intact. So does, apparently, the two leaders' mutual admiration for one another. Trump has told followers at political rallies that he and Kim "fell in love" after their first meeting. Kim's letters to Trump, as quoted by Woodward in his book, are fawning paeans rendered in language that would make a romantic novelist blush.

"I cannot forget that moment of history when I firmly held Your Excellency's hand," Kim wrote in a Dec. 25, 2018, missive. Trump's reply, three days later: "The only two leaders who can do it are you and me."

But all along, North Korea - a serial cheater on past nuclear agreements - was hedging its bets. Multiple strands of intelligence collected by U.S., South Korean and Japanese intelligence agencies have confirmed that Kim never missed a step in his march toward creating a credible nuclear deterrent that included powerful warheads and a variety of advanced missiles for delivering them.

Exactly how many new bombs North Korea has built since the Singapore summit is not publicly known, but analysts calculate that the country's nuclear weapons complex currently generates enough fissile material for up to seven new bombs each year - meaning that Kim's nuclear stockpile has possibly expanded by about 15 warheads since the two leaders first met.

North Korea's recent progress on weapons systems is detailed in a report by a U.N.-appointed Panel of Experts that compiles intelligence on North Korea supplied by multiple countries, including the United States and South Korea. A pre-publication draft of the report, obtained by The Washington Post, concludes that North Korea has not only continued to manufacture nuclear bombs but also has "probably developed miniature nuclear devices to fit into the warheads of its ballistic missiles." Two U.S. officials familiar with the findings said the report's conclusions are broadly shared by U.S. intelligence agencies.

The report highlights a construction boom at six military bases where North Korea manufactures and tests components for new missiles, describing a "level of activity [that] is constant." Particularly striking, the report said, is a surge in subterranean building projects, including new bunkers and tunnels that have been dug beneath existing bunkers and storage facilities, the report said.

"An effort is made at some sites to enhance the undetectability and the camouflage of the existing or recently built infrastructures," the report said.

The U.N. experts also noted the appearance of new or expanded facilities at North Korea's uranium processing plants, including a large industrial complex at Pyongsan that refines uranium ore. The improvements could enable Pyongyang to build more nuclear weapons faster.

In addition, the report cited evidence of preparations for a possible future resumption of tests. Advance work appeared to be underway for a possible missile test at a navy base in Sinpo, a port city on North Korea's northeast coast and the site of previous tests of submarine-launched ballistic missiles.

Meanwhile, an elaborate North Korean network for smuggling weapons parts continues to operate. According to a separate analysis by South Korean researchers last month, Kim's government successfully imported at least $30 million worth of banned missile components just in 2018, the year when the ICBM testing freeze went into effect.

"Even amid the flurry of diplomacy in 2018," said report author Jina Kim of the Korea Institute for Defense Analyses, a think tank affiliated with South Korea's Defense Ministry, "North Korea never stopped developing military options as a backup."

- - -

Trump administration officials say they are fully aware of Kim's continued pursuit of nuclear weapons, but they argue that a combination of diplomacy and continued economic pressure will eventually compel North Korea to give up its nuclear arsenal. Some analysts believe that North Korea is waiting out the U.S. presidential elections, and Kim may be willing to strike a bargain after Nov. 3, depending on the outcome.

Harsh U.S. and U.N. economic sanctions have battered North Korea's economy. Yet pressure from sanctions has slowly ebbed, in a side effect of the Kim-Trump summits. As tensions in the region eased, both China and Russia curtailed enforcement of the restrictions, allowing North Korea to export more of its coal to foreign markets while bringing in critical supplies of gas and oil.

North Korea's economy remains under severe strain, however, because of problems unrelated to the nuclear weapons crisis. After the start of the coronavirus pandemic, Kim closed the border with China, sealing off commerce with the country's main trading partner. Numerous cities and farming provinces also suffered massive damage because of historic flooding over the summer.

Some experts believe the extreme financial stress could eventually force Kim to agree to a disarmament deal. But others note that North Korean leaders have withstood similar pressures in the past, at times even allowing their citizens to endure starvation in order to procure the weapons they believe will help them stay in power.

In the meantime, analysts say, neither Kim nor Trump is likely to jeopardize their personal relationship. The odd friendship has continued to offer value - a temporary lessening of tensions and a chance to stand together in the international spotlight as statesmen - even as prospects for a nuclear-free North Korea appear to recede further from sight.

"There have been a lot of efforts, but in substance, I see no progress at all," said Chun Yung-woo, a former South Korea national security adviser who participated in nuclear talks with North Korea in the mid-2000s.

"North Korea is more dangerous. It has more nuclear warheads, or fissile materials with which to produce nuclear weapons," Chun said. "In that regard, at least, North Korea has more capability to destroy peace on the Korean Peninsula. I wouldn't describe that as any progress."

- - -

Denyer reported from Tokyo.
Vietnams health care sector is stepping up the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve service quality.

Time-lapse technology for embryo culture and selectioncombined using artificial intelligence software are used in Hanoi's Vinmec Hospital to select good embryos, increasing the likelihood of IVF conception. Photo vietnamplus.vn

Updates on the country'sAI research, development and use were introduced at a seminar held last week, attended by medical and tech experts.

The online seminar is part of AI4VN Program organised by the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Ministry of Planning and Investment, HCM City Peoples Committee, online newspaper VnExpress, and Sun Bright Art Creative and Event JSC, in co-operation with the Aus4Innovation programme, Australian Embassy in Vietnam, and Hanoi University of Science and Technology.

Deputy Minister of Science and Technology BuThe Duy said the development of AI, digital technology and big data created miracles in various fields.

In the health care sector, humans knowledge and the accumulated knowledge and experiences of doctors and health professionals are saved thanks to big data. With algorithms and computing technologies, the data is processed to become tools assisting doctors and health care workers to provide better health services, Duy said.

He said that Vietnam expected high-tech developers to become more interested in the medical sector and health professionals to become more engaged in using digital technologies and big data in their work.

The application of AI, digital technologies and digital transformation is very meaningful to disease prevention, control and treatment, particularly when COVID-19 is still going on, at least by year-end, Duy said.

David Hansen, CEO of the Australian e-Health Research Centre, Australias first and largest e-research hub, said the hubhad been providing an evidence base for the digital transformation of health care.

AI and digital technology had helped increase health care service quality, he said, giving examples like machine learning on retinal images to enable telehealth screening for eye diseases, for examples, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.

Machine learning can be used to understand the movement patterns of aged Australians living alone, alerting carers if functional independence declines over time, he said.

Associate Professor Nguyen Viet Nhung, director of the National Lung Hospital and chairman of Vietnam Lung Association, said he had been spending years studying the use of AI to diagnose tuberculosis and lung disease.

The science ministry has tasked the hospital with utilising technology to screen and detect tuberculosis patients with radiography, Nhung said.

Vietnam aimed to have zero cases of tuberculosis by 2030 and key to achieving that goal was improving its ability to detect the disease early and deliver treatment timely, Nhung said, adding that modern technologies could help reduce 70 per cent of TB cases within four years.

AI would help screen with X-rays, predict spatial epidemiology, support patient compliance with treatment, and support the management of drug side effects, Nhung said, adding that the final goal is to detect TB cases early and treat them completely.

AI would further enhance doctors diagnosis ability, he said.

"AI would help relieve the burden on humans while increasing accuracy and ensuring no case slips by while using lung radiography," he said.

According to Tran Thi Mai Oanh, director of Health Strategy and Policy Institute under the Ministry of Healt, in Vietnam, AI is applied in four key fields  diagnosis, treatment, management of health history data and training.

Vingroups Big Data Institute has been developing an AI application to diagnose lung diseases with chest X-ray images and breast cancer with breast X-ray images. The application is being trialled at Military Hospital 108, the Medical Universitys Hospital and Vinmec.

Oanh said AI could be applied widely, especially to help people record their own health conditions, reminding people to take medicine and exercise, and provide early warnings to detect diseases like cardiovascular issues or cancer.

When it comes to AI application in the health care sector, its code of ethics is needed regarding the protection of privacy and personal information like their health conditions, Oanh said.

"Another issue is to ensure safety for patients if robots are used to deliver services as it's possible for programmed robots to have errors," Oanh said, adding that in such cases, legal regulations on compensation needed to be clarified.

How much AI applications can be used to deliver treatment services is also a key issue that decides the treatments effectiveness and responsibility, Oanh said.

Besides an improved legal framework, qualified input data would be needed to ensure reliable and exact diagnosis and treatment, she said.

Prof and Dr Nguyen Thanh Thuy, deputy chief of the national programme supporting the research, development and application of technologies in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, said that three years ago, the Ministry of Science and Technology launched a master plan on AI development as well as studies on AI use in the health care sector.

Vietnam now has advantages to apply AI in health care including high demand, available input health data and human resources with people who are committed and determined to try, Thuy said.  VNS
In 1624, a man named John Donne wrote, No man is an island, entire of it selfe, every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main.

Justin Frost never heard those words but he came to the same conclusion. He listened to his grandfather, Harold Frost, tell stories about ancestors he would never know. And in the deepest part of his being he knew that he belonged to a long line of men and women who had come before him. Generation after generation, family after family. Men and women he never knew but he was a part of them. And they were a part of him.

Just 15 years after the Pilgrims arrived on the Mayflower at Plymouth Rock in 1620, the first Frost family came to America.

Justins story begins with Leonard Frost, his third great-grandfather, who was born in Oswego, New York on Nov. 25, 1842, to Isaac Frost, Jr. and his wife, Olivia Schofield. When Leonard was 18 years old, our country was being torn apart by the Civil War, which began on April 12, 1861.

Some of the family migrated to Canada once the war began," Justin said. "They sympathized with the South and left the United States rather than stay here. The North had had slaves at one time just as the South had. But eventually slavery in the North disappeared because it became industrialized. Slavery had continued in the South because the South was basically agricultural.

Leonard was drafted in Albion, New York. A faded piece of newspaper reported that 188 young men were on the list to be drafted. Only 50 names were drawn. Leonard was one of the young men drafted. But by 1865, Leonard was living in Michigan and married Eunice Robinson in Saginaw. In 1866, Hattie, their first child, was born in Saginaw. Ben, their first son, was born two years later, in 1868 in Midland. By now, Leonard and Eunice had been given 60.9 acres in the area where Diamond Drive is today. President Ulysses S. Grant signed the land patent.

In 1870, Susan was born. The next year, 1871, saw Midland surviving a fire that had swept over much of the Lower Peninsula. At home, alone with three small children, Eunice took the children to a swamp, where all four lay in water and muck to escape the fire. Minnie was born in 1872. Olia in 1874. Eliza in 1880 (she died in infancy), and in 1883, their last child was born and they named him Walter. Walter is Justins second great-grandfather.

Leonard Frost was road commissioner for Midland Township. He won a contract for building a bridge over the Sturgeon Creek at the end of Main Street. He put in the approaches for the new wooden bridge but the job was taken out of his hands and given to someone else. It turned out the contract had never been approved. Later, the man who had replaced him had to sue the city of Midland for his money in building the bridge.

Names familiar in Midland came about as the Frost daughters married. Today, we still have names like Gray, Munger, Whipple, Cone, Godfrey, Siebert, DeGeer and Boughner.

Ben Frost, Leonards oldest son, was born in Midland, and spent his entire life here, marrying a young woman named Jota Kinney and they lived on a farm north of the Circle. Ben had vivid memories of growing up during the years that his dad Leonard owned a lumber mill near North Bradley on the Salt River. Everyone in the Frost family worked at the mill. Eunice and her daughters did the cooking and kitchen work at the mill. Ben helped his dad in whatever capacity he was needed. He remembered hauling green shingles down Ashman Street which at the time was a sand road. The wagon wheels sank up to their hubs in the sand at times.

Owning his own pony was something Ben wanted and he worked hard to earn enough money to buy one. When he got the pony home, he took it up to the attic of the farmhouse, worried that the cold weather would hurt the pony and he would be out his hard-earned money. Men who worked for Leonard in his lumber mill had their sleeping quarters there. Ben had no trouble getting the pony up the stairs but the next morning it took nine men to push and pull the pony downstairs and outside.

As he grew older, Ben loved to tell about the Midland he grew up in when Main Street had hotels. Lumber camps were everywhere. And the roads were corduroy roads. The road past the Frost farm was called State Road originally but eventually it was changed to Jefferson Avenue. Ben secured the job of Superintendent for the Poor of Midland County for a few years. Justins Uncle Don once said, Ben would have liked to be a politician.

Leonards wife Eunice died in 1900, 11 years before her husband died. She had been suffering from gastrointestinal problems for a couple of weeks, unable to eat anything. Then she began feeling better. Justin said, They were very social and liked to entertain and play Pedro. They invited friends over one evening when Eunice seemed to be better. She even had something to eat. After awhile she said, Im getting a little tired. She stopped playing cards and went over to lay down on the sofa in the living room while the card game went on. When the card game ended and the guests were going home, Leonard went over to wake his wife. She had passed away while the guests were playing Pedro.

Leonard died in 1911 in Midland and today is buried in the Midland Municipal Cemetery. Justin said, To restore my third great-grandfather Leonard Frosts headstone was probably one of the greatest feelings I ever had.

Walter Frost is Justins second great-grandfather. He was the last son born to Leonard and Eunice Frost. Born in 1883, he married Effie Ellis July 31, 1901. They had five children: Cecil (a daughter), Russell, Ida, Irene and Nina. Walter and Effie lived on Jefferson and their barn stood in the same spot where Nottingham Place stands today. Walter farmed. He graded roads. He dug basements. In 1938, he cut the road grade on the Circle in the first section. Walter died in 1951. Don Frost was Walters grandson and they often worked together. Don said, I enjoyed working with Grandpa as much as he enjoyed working with me.

One day after finishing a job, Walter said to Don, Im kinda tired. Why dont you take care of the horses and do whatever you want to do. When Don finished working, he went into town and then went home. That night Walter had a brain hemorrhage. Three days later he told Don he wanted him to work the horses. Walter said, Thats what I wanted to see.

Walters funeral was held in Russells home at 1370 North Jefferson. Walter and his wife Effie lived on North Jefferson in the same farmhouse for fifty years. Effie died in 1977 having spent 26 years as a widow after her husband died.in 1951. Effie was 93 years old at the time of her death and lived at 3615 East Ashman.

Editor's note: Part II will appear in two weeks.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) has documented the death of the first Syrian fighter of Turkish-backed factions in Azerbaijan after being shot, SOHR reported.

Reliable sources have informed the SOHR that Turkish-backed Syrian mercenaries were sent to join the battles in Azerbaijan, while their sole mission was supposed to be protecting the oil fields.

The sources have confirmed that the number of Turkish-backed Syrian mercenaries in Azerbaijan approximates 320, and they have been transported by Turkish security companies. It is worth noting that these fighters have not participated in any battles so far.

Most of the Syrian fighters sent to Azerbaijan are of Turkmen descent, and they went to Azerbaijan under the pretext of defending the national cause, while the Turkish-backed Arab factions refused to send their fighters to Azerbaijan, SOHR sources added.
President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that Ukraine is interested in further cooperation with China in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Ukraine is interested in further coordination with China in its efforts to combat the consequences of the coronavirus pandemic. The issue of providing our citizens with a quality vaccine is becoming especially important, the Ukrainian president said in an interview with Chinas Xinhua News Agency, Ukrinform reports referring to the presidents press service.

Zelensky stressed that Ukraine and China had cooperated effectively in the fight against COVID-19. He thanked China for the humanitarian assistance provided to Ukraine to combat the coronavirus, assistance in the air transportation of medical cargo, as well as the return of Ukrainian citizens home.

Thousands of test systems, face masks, goggles, gloves and other personal protective equipment were sent to Ukrainian hospitals at the beginning of the pandemic in Ukraine this spring. It saved many Ukrainians, Zelensky said.

As of October 1, Ukraine recorded a total of 213,028 COVID-19 cases, including 4,069 cases confirmed over the previous day.

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SELMA, Ala. - A prosecutor said two on-duty white Alabama officers brutally beat a Black man five months ago after the victim got into a road-rage incident with the wife of one of the officers.

Dallas County District Attorney Michael Jackson announced felony assault charges against former Selma police officer Matthew Blaine Till and former Dallas County sheriffs Deputy John Nicholas Taccone at a news conference Wednesday, news outlets reported.

According to court documents, Tills wife got into the dispute with the victim on April 30 in Selma and called her husband to let him know about the incident with a black guy in a red Charger.

Both officers then arrived at the scene and eventually pursued the driver of that car. When the man pulled over, court documents said the officers approached him and got into a physical struggle with him, striking his head and face.

Till had tried to put handcuffs on the man before the struggle ensued, AL.com reported. During the 90-second encounter, Jackson said Till also pulled out a gun and told the victim that hes going to kill him.

They Tased him multiple times, threw him to the ground and were punching and kicking him, Jackson said. It was a brutal beating. All this was happening while the victim was repeatedly asking the officers What did I do? Jackson said.

The unidentified Black man eventually got into his car and fled, but crashed his vehicle a short time later. He was then transported to a holding cell at the citys police department where federal agents interviewed him about weapons that were found inside his car, court documents said.

These officers escalated a personal matter that should have been a traffic stop at worse into a Rocky Horror beating, Jackson said.

Till was fired, and Taccone is no longer employed with the sheriffs office, according to the prosecutor. It was not immediately clear if either of the two men had an attorney who could comment.

Public officials are held to a higher standard, Jackson said, according to the Selma Times-Journal. It was a bullying situation. The badge is a symbol of integrity and protection.

Till pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice in federal court last week for telling Taconne not to speak with anyone about the call he received from his wife before the incident. A federal judge has set his sentencing date to Dec. 28.

Both men were then charged Tuesday with felony second-degree assault, unlawful imprisonment and obstructing governmental operations.
A family were horrified when they discovered a huge carpet python curled up inside their child's playroom.

Snake catcher Bryan Robinson travelled to Ferny Hills, 18km north-west of Brisbane, on Tuesday to remove a carpet python from the home.

The snake was hidden on a shelf behind a box filled with dolls.

Snake catcher Bryan Robinson travelled to Ferny Hills, 18km north-west of Brisbane, on Tuesday to remove a carpet python from a playroom

WHAT TO DO IF YOU FIND A PYTHON If the snake is a python, it is not venomous. Don't ever try to pick up a snake. Don't ever kill one. If you have one in your house, call a snake catcher. Source: Tony Morrison, Redland's Snake Catcher Advertisement

A social media post by Snake Catchers Brisbane, Ipswich, Logan and Gold Coast, compared it to a scene from E.T. where the alien hid inside of the cupboard.

'They noticed the animal there in the corner. It didn't come at them or surprise them or anything like that,' Mr Robinson told 7news.com.au.

'It was simply a carpet snake curled up in a corner.'

He believed the snake came through one of the doors in the house.

Carpet pythons are a snake that does tend to stray towards taking refuge in homes.

They are also not an unusual type of snake to find around Brisbane.

'As a general rule, snakes will occupy pretty much any niche within the suburban environment,' Mr Robinson said.
Carmel Middletent, an Australia, Aboriginal artist who was raised in an orphanage before moving to America in 1986, has published her new book A Place Called Home: a sensitive and beautifully written memoir of her earliest memories as an orphan in Australia.

This book is about Australian Aboriginal Mindfulness Healing Trauma for anyone who is a survivor of trauma or going through trauma, young and older survivors. Some of you may be adults now. Ms. Middletent shares with you some of her coping techniques that helped her through her rainy days as a young girl and today. Through practicing the Children of the Light Meditation, painting the Australian Aboriginal art, writing, and growing up outside in nature has helped her in her own healing therapy. Ms. Middletent is from the Kabi Kabi Tribe, her great-grandmother is Towcha, a tribal woman from the Nossa River of the Dulingbara Clan Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia. Later, Towcha was also known as Queen Maria of Childers. Carmels Father side of the family name is Trapp related to the Von Trapp Family. Carmel is still searching for her son Rodney Trapp (Antony Douglas Koplick) and her sister Caron Trapp.

Ms. Middletent was home recently and for the first time saw a picture of her great-grandmother Towcha and realized that this was the same lady she saw in her dreams. If it wasnt for Ms. Middletent moving to America, she would never have met her mentor in the USMC, a cultural heritage specialist/anthropologist/archaeologist in Twentynine Palms, California, who taught her all about the Australian Aboriginal art at an ancient Native American petroglyph site. Carmel would not be writing this book and painting in the Australian Aboriginal art if it were not for her mentor. Today Carmel is an Australian Aboriginal Fine art Illustrator, an Author and meditation teacher of Children of The Light Meditation style. Ms Middletent writes about Intergenerational Tramua and shares with you her own healing therapy through the Australian Aboriginal Art, Meditation, Eco-Psychology and writing. For upcoming lectures about Australian Aboriginal Mindfulness Healing Trauma, email pfhillc@gmail.com.

Published by Page Publishing, Carmel Middletents engrossing book is a stirring compilation of autobiographical essays.

Readers who wish to experience this engaging work can purchase A Place Called Home 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.
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Amid widespread outrage over the gangrape and brutalisation of a Dalit woman in Uttar Pradesh's Hathras, the government published the National Crime Records Bureau data which revealed an overall increase in crimes against Dalits with Uttar Pradesh recording the highest number of crimes against the SC population.

Crimes against women increased by over 7.3 per cent with over 4 lakh cases registered in 2019 as compared to 3,78,236 cases in 2018.

Data showed crimes against scheduled caste (SC) people increased by over 7 per cent and by 26 per cent against scheduled tribe (ST) people in 2019 as compared with 2018.

Almost 46,000 cases were registered for committing crime against SCs with Uttar Pradesh recording the highest number of such cases at 11,829 cases.

ALSO READ | Hathras gang-rape: DCW chief writes to CJI demanding action against those involved in cover up

This was followed by Rajasthan with 6,794 cases, and 6,544 cases in Bihar, the report documented.

Rajasthan saw the highest number of rape cases of SC women with 554 cases, followed by Uttar Pradesh at 537 and Madhya Pradesh at 510 cases.

Crimes against STs increased steeply with the data recording an increase by 26.5 per cent.

A total of 8,257 cases were registered for committing crime against tribal people while 2018 had recorded 6,528 such cases.

The highest number of such cases were registered in Madhya Pradesh with 1,922 cases, followed by Rajasthan, which recorded 1,797 cases and Odisha with 576 cases.

Madhya Pradesh also saw the highest number of incidents of rape of tribal women with 358 cases, followed by 180 incidents in Chattisgarh and 114 in Maharashtra.

ALSO READ | Vehicles can overturn anytime in Yogi's UP: Vijayvargiya on Hathras gangrape

The category of 'simple hurt' with 1,675 cases constituted the highest number of atrocities against tribal people, accounting for 20.3 per cent of the total crimes committed in 2019.

An analysis of the data by the Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative showed around 9 per cent of the crimes against SC people were registered only under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities Act), and around 91 per cent were registered under the SC/ST PoA Act read with the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

Dalit organisations have repeatedly expressed their concern on the ground implementation of the PoA Act. Cybercrimes saw an increase by over 63 per cent with 44,546 cases registered in 2019, the data showed.

Inhumane

7.30 pm-7.45 pm: UP Police escorts victims father and brother to a SUV waiting outside Safdarjung Hospital.

12.45am-1 am: Body reaches the village, but cops did not allow it to be taken to her house.

2.30-2.45 am: Ambulance carrying the body halted by villagers as the family alleged that they were being forced to do cremation at night. Cops locked the family inside their house.

3.00-3.15 am: Cremation done despite familys request to wait till sunrise.
As the U.S. senior population grows and health insurance options become more complex and confusing, Coverance is a critical resource that delivers the best insurance options to seniors, protecting their health and financial well being

Coverance Insurance Solutions, a national health insurance brokerage specializing in Medicare coverage, has agreed to a multi-million-dollar funding deal with revenue-based financing firm Decathlon Capital Partners.

Decathlon Capitals funding will support the companys growth and enhanced customer service as they deliver insurance services to senior citizens across the U.S.

Coverance connects senior citizens with the Medicare insurance plan that best fits their needs. The company uses experienced agents and its proprietary technology platform to navigate the Medicare Advantage, Medigap, and Part D prescription plan markets and place consumers in the optimal plans that fit within their budget.

As the U.S. senior population grows and health insurance options become more complex and confusing, Coverance is a critical resource that delivers the best insurance options to seniors, protecting their health and financial well being, said Chris Mullins, Coverance founder and CEO.

As the company continues expanding to meet the growing demand in the Medicare insurance marketplace, having partners like Decathlon Capital is key, said Coverance CFO Michael Kim.

Our key partnerships with companies like Decathlon Capital have allowed Coverance to scale and serve more seniors with this empowering insurance brokerage model, said Kim.

Decathlon Capital, which funds growth companies with strong revenue track records, agreed to terms with Coverance on a funding deal that will be paid back through future revenue, not through equity. This model gives Coverance extra flexibility as it scales.

Decathlon Capitals funding formula is designed to empower the founders and company owners who built their businesses, delivering growth capital without taking precious equity or company control, said John Borchers, Managing Partner of Decathlon Capital.

About Coverance Insurance Solutions

Coverance Insurance Solutions, Inc. is a licensed insurance brokerage focused on meeting the needs of seniors in the Medicare health insurance marketplace. Headquartered in Long Beach, California, Coverance is dedicated to the mission of helping seniors make the best choices when selecting their health insurance. Learn more at http://www.coveranceis.com/

About Decathlon Capital Partners

Decathlon Capital Partners provides growth capital for companies seeking alternatives to traditional equity investment. Through the use of highly customized revenue-based financing solutions, Decathlon provides long-term growth capital without the dilution, loss of control and operational overhead that often comes with equity-based funding. With offices in Palo Alto and Park City, Decathlon is the largest revenue-based funding investor in the U.S. and is active across a wide range of sectors. Learn more at http://www.decathloncapital.com.


Olivier Douliery-Pool/Getty

The truck-revving, banner-waving, loudspeaker-blaring pro-Trump rally took place, conveniently, on Sept. 19, the first Saturday of early voting in the swing state of Virginia, in a parking lot where voters in Democratic-leaning Fairfax County were lined up to cast their ballots. Some Trump supporters drove circles around the voters while othersmany without face masksmingled with the line, chanting and waving flags.

We had a couple poll observers there that had to actually escort voters in because we saw people that would get to the edge of the parking lot, and see this giant group of Trumpers yelling and screaming, Jack Kiraly, executive director of the Fairfax County Democratic Committee, told The Daily Beast, adding that the scene reminded him of the volunteers who escort people past anti-abortion protesters outside womens health clinics.

So during Tuesday nights remarkably unhinged presidential debate, when President Donald Trump urged his supporters to take unsanctioned actions at polling places, Kiraly was reminded of what Fairfax County voters had witnessed earlier this month.

During the debate, Trump appeared to tell the far-right paramilitary group the Proud Boys to stand by and urged fans to go into the polls and watch very carefully for voter fraud, an exceedingly rare phenomenon Trump has crafted into a cornerstone of his political identity. For close observers of the far right, as well as officials like Kiraly, the remarks amounted to the latest warning that an embattled president might use his supporters to impede fair elections, or to cast the results of those elections in doubt.

If the prospect of election-related violence was already looming over the first presidential contest since Trump effectively welcomed the paramilitary far-right into the Republican Party, the debate made the alarm bells ring even louder.

Trump Tries to Step Out of the Proud Boys Mess He Created

The two things that concerned me most were the remarks about the Proud Boys, basically incentivizing these armed militiamen who are loyal to him to show up at polling places, Kiraly said, and then his comment saying theyre going to have observers there. They are related. I think he was incentivizing those Proud Boys to go inside.

Story continues

The Proud Boys are an explicitly violent right-wing group with extensive ties to white supremacists and disturbing connections to more mainstream Republicans. Trumps comments about the group came when debate moderator Chris Wallace asked him to condemn white supremacists and right-wing militias. Trumps debate opponent, former Vice President Joe Biden, specifically urged Trump to condemn the Proud Boys, who are often visible in Portland, Philadelphia, and New York, where two members were convicted of gang assault and other crimes in 2018.

Trump did not do so. Proud Boys, stand back and stand by, he said. But Ill tell you what, somebodys got to do something about antifa and the left.

On Wednesday, Trump attempted to walk back the comments, claiming that he did not know who the Proud Boys are, and that they should stand down. (The current leader of the Proud Boys sat directly behind Trump at a 2019 rally, and was a Florida director of Latinos for Trump as of last year.)

Even if Trump were telling the truth on Wednesday, his words have already energized the far right around elections, according to Kathleen Belew, history professor at the University of Chicago and author of Bring the War Home: The White Power Movement and Paramilitary America.

He didn't tell the Proud Boys to stand down. He told them to stand back and stand by, Belew told The Daily Beast.

That's a call for readiness, she explained. Of course that leads us to a set of questions about readiness for what. One of the things to understand about this movement is that adherence to stand back and stand by does not necessarily mean adherence to the person that gave that marching order, or to what might come afterward. I think part of the concern here is that he simply can't unring the bell in this kind of situation.

The Proud Boys capitalized on Trumps comments even before the debates end, putting his words on memes and t-shirts. But the far-right glee at the prospect of presidential permission for election-related violence wasnt confined to one group.

Andrew Anglin, the founder of the neo-Nazi website the Daily Stormer, wrote a post-debate blog post that reiterated Trumps baseless claims that Democrats would attempt election fraud, and claimed that Trump is ready for a war in the streets. (Anglin cannot personally participate in said war on the streets because he has gone AWOL while avoiding an ongoing lawsuit and tens of millions in civil penalties from previous lawsuits.)

Far-right interference with free elections has a long history, especially when aimed at Black people, Belew noted.

During Reconstruction, after the Civil War, during the 1920s, during the Civil Rights movement, attempts to keep people from exercising their legal right to vote were as intrinsic to white supremacy and white power groups as a burning cross, she said. Its one of the textbook, central strategies.

Election trickery also has a history with less-fringe right groups. Devin Burghart, executive director of the Institute for Research & Education on Human Rights, a social justice non-profit, pointed to the so-called Brooks Brothers Riot in late November 2000. While election canvassers in Floridas hotly contested Miami-Dade County gathered to count ballots, a mob of paid operatives pounded on doors and windows, and punched a Democratic official, intentionally interfering with ballot counting.

Burghart noted that the riot was allegedly organized in part by GOP operative Roger Stone, who is now closely affiliated with the Proud Boys. The group has provided security for him, and in turn he has recently endorsed one of them for office in Hawaii and appeared to participate in a Proud Boy initiation stunt.

Given the Trump orbits connection to the Proud Boys and given his advisors connections to previous voting meddling efforts, Burghart said, there is certainly a concern both for violence on Election Day coming from groups like the Proud Boys and, should there not be a clear victor on November 3, for potential violence and meddling in the electoral process after Election Day.

Contacted via text message about Trumps Proud Boy comments, Stone responded with a paragraph-long rant about anti-fascists, and did not respond to a follow-up question.

The threat isnt just from Proud Boys, Burghart emphasized, but also from the larger network of paramilitary groups that have voiced support for Trump. Some of those groups are not cohesive militias, but recurring pro-Trump rallies, like a series of caravans in Oregon organized by pro-Trump Facebook pages.

Those Oregon events often begin much with truck caravans and Trump flagsmuch like the event in Fairfax County that saw pro-Trump activists cross through an early voting line.

Its no longer an election day, its an election season, Kiraly said. We need to be vigilant at all times, and we need to call out these instances of voter intimidation, of encouraging voter intimidation that way that the president did last night.

We need to shame that stuff.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Army Public School Recruitment 2020: The Army Public School (APS) on Thursday invited online applications for the recruitment of PGT (Post Graduate Teachers), TGT (Trained Graduate Teacher), and PRT (Primary Teacher) on its official website.

Interested and eligible candidates can apply for the positions online at aps-csb.in on or before October 20, 2020.

The exact number of vacancies available in the respective school will be announced by the School/Management while advertising for holding interviews/evaluation of teaching skills. In the last two years the number of total vacancies in different categories were 2315 & 2169 respectively, reads the official notification.

An online screening test will be conducted on November 21 and 22, 2020. Candidates who will qualify the screening test will be eligible to appear for interviews, evaluation of teaching skills and computer proficiency.

The admit card for the recruitment examination are tentatively scheduled to be released on November 4, 2020. The results for the screening test will be tentatively announced on December 2, 2020.

Candidates are required to pay a non-refundable online application fee of 500.

For more details, candidates are advised to read the official notification.

Heres the direct link to apply online.

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TOKYO: Japanese manufacturers sentiments improved for the first time in three years, a quarterly Bank of Japan survey showed Thursday, as the nation grappled with stagnation worsened by the coronavirus pandemic.

The headline measure for the tankan, tracking sentiment among large manufacturers, stood at minus 27, an improvement of seven points from the previous survey that came out in July.

The tankan measures corporate sentiment by subtracting the number of companies saying business conditions are negative from those responding they are positive.

That measure had declined for six quarters straight, to an 11-year low, before Thursdays report.

Sentiment among large nonmanufacturers improved by five points to minus 12.

Despite some positive signs in the tankan, the numbers are still in the minus range, meaning pessimism is still rampant in Japan Inc. and the worlds third largest economy has a long way to go before its on a solid growth track.

Worries also remain about a second wave of COVID-19 infections. Japan has never had a total lockdown, and businesses have been trying to return to normal with mask-wearing and social-distancing measures.

The pandemic has squelched overseas tourism, which had sustained economic activity in recent years.

Although exports have been falling in recent months, there are some signs of a recovery as overseas demand picks up. The Bank of Japan has continued to pump ample cash into the system. The government has doled out cash handouts to encourage consumer spending.

___

Yuri Kageyama on Twitter: https://twitter.com/yurikageyama

Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor
Four top Australia Post executives flew to Brisbane to accompany One Nation leader Pauline Hanson on a guided tour of its new parcel facility at the same time the organisation was trying to win her party's critical vote in the Senate.

The red carpet treatment was rolled out for the Queensland Senator in July, 11 days after the Australia Post chief executive Christine Holgate threatened to call police unless the City of Melbourne delivered more than 100 One Nation-branded stubby holders to every apartment in a locked-down suburban public housing tower.

Australia Post chief executive Christine Holgate intervened to get Pauline Hanson stubby holders distributed to residents in one of Melbourne's locked down public housing towers. Credit:Peter Rae/Supplied

Ms Holgate was joined by Sydney-based HR executive Sue Davies, NSW/ACT and Queensland general manager Christian Jackson and community and consumer executive Nicole Sheffield, who all flew from Sydney to provide the tour. But the organisation said the federal government's temporary relaxation in daily postal services was not discussed.

In May the federal opposition announced it would seek to overturn the temporary relaxation in daily services in the Senate with the support of the Greens. The disallowance motion, which was later defeated in a vote Senator Hanson did not attend, needed four members of the five-person crossbench to succeed.
Debenture is secured against all of the assets of HydRx Farms Inc., a Whitby, Ontario research, cultivation, and extraction facility

VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / World-Class Extractions Inc. (CSE: PUMP) (FRA:WCF) (OTCQB:WCEXF) (the "Company" or "World-Class"), is pleased to announce that its 50%-owned subsidiary, Cobra Ventures Inc. ("Cobra"), has acquired a senior secured convertible debenture of HydRx Farms Ltd. o/a Scientus Pharma ("HydRx") in the principal amount of CDN$11,500,000, plus accrued and unpaid interest and charges (the "Debenture") from Aphria Inc. ("Aphria") (TSX: APH or USOTCQB: APHQF).

The Debenture is secured against all of the assets of HydRx, including its real estate assets consisting of a 45,000 square foot manufacturing and distribution facility located on a 2.3 acre parcel of land in Whitby, Ontario, built to GMP and GPP standards. The Debenture is currently in default.

Rosy Mondin, CEO of World-Class stated: "World-Class is pleased to report its participation in the acquisition of this debenture. This interest-bearing, $11.5 million, first-position debenture is secured against all of the assets of HydRx, which includes a state-of-the-art facility and business in which over $50 million has been invested to-date. Having completed its most recent Health Canada inspections, the HydRx site is fully licensed to cultivate, process, produce and sell medical and recreational cannabis and cannabis products. We believe this is one of, if not the most advanced cultivation, extraction, and Cannabis 2.0 production facilities in Canada. We continue to evaluate the opportunities that our investment in this debenture presents for World-Class."

Cobra is a venture between World-Class and a group of investors led by Richard Goldstein, Co-founder and CFO of Canntab Therapeutics Ltd., a Canadian license holder under the Cannabis Act, and President of First Republic Capital Corporation, a Canadian licensed Exempt Market Dealer (through the Ontario Securities Commission).

About HydRx

HydRx owns and operates a 45,000-square foot manufacturing and distribution facility in Whitby, Ontario built to GMP and GPP standards. HydRx holds numerous licenses issued by Health Canada under the Cannabis Act to cultivate, produce and sell cannabis products, including the extraction of cannabis resin for use in formulations including cannabinoid-based oils, capsules and other derivative products. HydRx is also a Licensed Dealer under the Narcotics Control Act and one of a limited number of license holders in Canada authorized to conduct R&D and fully handle cannabinoid products with the ability to wholesale, buy, process and sell cannabinoid derivatives, from and to other Cannabis Act license holders, as well as international markets.

About World-Class

World-Class is an innovation-driven company with a principle focus on the rapidly evolving cannabis and hemp industries. Through its subsidiaries Soma Labs Scientific Inc. and Greenmantle Products Inc., World-Class deploys and manages custom-built extraction centres utilizing its custom systems, technology, and processes to efficiently produce high-quality cannabis and hemp concentrates and end-products. In addition, through its subsidiary Pineapple Express Delivery Inc., the Company offers compliant and secure delivery of government regulated products, including medical and recreational cannabis in Ontario, Manitoba and Saskatchewan, and liquor delivery in certain jurisdictions in Saskatchewan.

Investor Contact

Daniel Mogil

World-Class Investor Relations

1-437-266-1968

ir@worldclassextractions.com

https://worldclassextractions.com

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release, which has been prepared by management.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

All statements in this press release, other than statements of historical fact, are "forward-looking information" with respect to the Company within the meaning of applicable securities laws. The Company provides forward-looking statements for the purpose of conveying information about current expectations and plans relating to the future and readers are cautioned that such statements may not be appropriate for other purposes. By its nature, this information is subject to inherent risks and uncertainties that may be general or specific and which give rise to the possibility that expectations, forecasts, predictions, projections or conclusions will not prove to be accurate, that assumptions may not be correct and that objectives, strategic goals and priorities will not be achieved. These risks and uncertainties include but are not limited those identified and reported in the Company's public filings under the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com. 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 information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise unless required by law.

SOURCE: World-Class Extractions Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/608667/World-Class-Extractions-Subsidiary-Acquires-115-Million-Senior-Secured-Convertible-Debenture-from-Aphria-for-5000000
The unemployment rate in the eurozone edged up to 8.1 percent in August from 8 percent in July, the European Union said Thursday, as government support cushioned much of the economic impact of the pandemic.

But economists fear that the jobless rate could surge when the programs expire, or employers go bankrupt or are forced to lay off workers permanently.

Germany, France and many other countries compensate workers for some of the income they lose when their employers put them on furlough or reduced hours. That has a led to relatively modest increases in the jobless rate, which was 7.2 percent in March when the pandemic hit Europe.

In the United States, which does not have a comparable program, unemployment shot from 3.5 percent in February to 14.7 percent in April, though the rate has since declined to 8.4 percent.
Google is taking aim at photo face filters and other "beautifying" techniques that mental health experts believe can warp a person's self-confidence, particularly when they're introduced to younger users. The company says it will now rely on expert guidance when applying design principles for photos filters used by the Android Camera app on Pixel smartphones. In the Pixel 4a, Google has already turned off face retouching by default, it says, and notes the interface will soon be updated to include what Google describes as "value-free" descriptive icons and labels for the app's face retouching effects.

That means it won't use language like "beauty filter" or imply, even in more subtle ways, that face retouching tools can make someone look better. These changes will also roll out to the Android Camera app in other Pixel smartphones through updates.

The changes, though perhaps unnoticed by the end user, can make a difference over time.

Google says that more than 70% of photos on Android are shot with the front-facing camera and over 24 billion photos have been labeled as "selfies" in Google Photos.

Image Credits: Google

But the images our smartphones are showing us are driving more people to be dissatisfied with their own appearance. According to the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 72% of their members last year said their patients sought them out in order to improve their selfies, a 15% year-over-year increase. In addition, 80% of parents said they're worried about filters' impact and two-thirds of teens said they've been bullied over how they look in photos.

Google explains it sought the help of child and mental health experts to better understand the impact of filters on people's well-being. It found that when people weren't aware a photo filter had been applied, the resulting photos could negatively impact mental well-being as they quietly set a beauty standard that people would then compare themselves against over time.

Story continues

Image Credits: Google

In addition, filters that use terminology like "beauty," "beautification," "enhancement" and "touch up" imply there's something wrong with someone's physical appearance that needs to be corrected. It suggests that the way they actually look is bad, Google explains. The same is true for terms like "slimming," which imply a person's body needs to be improved.

Google also found that even the icons used could contribute to the problem.

It's often the case that face retouching filters will use "sparkling" design elements on the icon that switches the feature on. This suggests that using the filter is making your photo better.

To address this problem, Google will update to using value-neutral language for its filters, along with new icons.

Image Credits: Google

For example, instead of labeling a face retouching option as "natural," it will relabel it to "subtle." And instead of sparkling icons, it instead shows an icon of the face with an editing pen to indicate which button to push to enable the feature.

Adjustment levels will also follow new guidelines, and use either numbers and symbols or simple terms like "low" and "high," rather than those that refer to beauty.

Image Credits: Google

Google says the Camera app, too, should also make it obvious when a filter has been enabled -- both in the real-time capture and afterwards. For example, an indicator at the top of the screen could inform the user when a filter has been turned on, so users know their image is being edited.

In Pixel smartphones, starting with the Pixel 4a, when you use face retouching effects, you'll be shown more information about how each setting is being applied and what specific changes it will make to the image. For instance, if you choose the "subtle" effect, it will explain that it adjusts your skin texture, under-eye tone and eye brightness. Being transparent about the effects applied can help to demystify the sometimes subtle tweaks that face retouching filters are making to our photos.

Face retouching will also be shut off in the new Pixel devices announced on Wednesday, including the Pixel 4a 5G and Pixel 5. And the changes to labels and descriptions are coming to Pixel phones through an upcoming update, Google says, which will support Pixel 2 and later devices.
UP: Elections not won on exit polls basis, results will be surprising: Kamal Nath

Hathras gang-rape case: NHRC issues notice to Uttar Pradesh govt, state police chief

India

oi-Ajay Joseph Raj P

Lucknow, Oct 01: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued notices to the Uttar Pradesh government and the state's police chief in connection with the recent gang-rape of a 19-year-old Dalit women in Hathras district.

The woman, who was battling for her life after the assault, died at Safdarjung Hospital on Tuesday.

According to reports, the NHRC has taken suo motu cognisance in connection with the "gang rape and brutality of a 19-year-old women belonging to the Scheduled Caste in Hathras district", the rights panel said in a statement.

Hathras gangrape: Plea in SC for CBI probe, transfer of trial to Delhi

"The victim had gone missing on September 14 and was found in a badly injured condition on September 22, and was subjected to gang-rape and brutality in Hathras over two weeks ago," it said.

The Commission has sent notices to the chief secretary of the state government and the Director General of Police of Uttar Pradesh, the officials said.

Hathras gangrape: UP CM speaks to kin of victim, announces 25 lakh ex-gratia, house, job for kin

According to reports, the young woman had gone to the fields with her mother and went missing soon after on September 14. She was found later, beaten and tortured, her tongue cut as she bit it when the accused attempted to strangle her.

Hathras sealed ahead of Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi's visit|Oneindia News

She was first admitted to Aligarh Muslim University's Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and Hospital and then shifted to Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi on Monday.

The NHRC observed that the young woman, belonging to the Scheduled Caste community, was subjected to sexual harassment and brutality. "It is apparent that the police was not able to take timely action to trace and save the victim due to which she could not be saved from being subjected to grave cruelty," it said.
Scientists have found a 'detectable level' of the novel coronavirus for the first time in samples of beach water.

A team from the University of Minnesota Medical School has been collecting water every weekend from eight beaches along Lake Superior since the Fourth of July.

Four of them - Brighton Beach, 42nd Avenue East Beach, Franklin Park Beach and Lief Erickson Park Beach - had trace amounts of SARS-CoV-2 in the water, over the weekends of September 11 and September 18.

While there is no evidence the virus can be transmitted through lake or beach water, it may contain clues about how the virus has spread throughout the community.

Researchers from the University of Minnesota Medical School have been testing water samples at eight beaches along Lake Superior since July. Pictured: Brighton Beach along Lake Superior where trace samples of coronavirus were found

Over the weekend of September 11 and September, trace levels were found at four of the beaches. Pictured: Franklin Park Beach along Lake Superior where trace samples of coronavirus were found

Levels were detected between 100 copies and 1,000 copies of the virus per liter, about 10,000 times less than levels found in wastewater. Pictured: Franklin Park Beach along Lake Superior where trace samples of coronavirus were found

According to a statement from the University of Minnesota Medical School in Duluth, researchers found between 100 copies and 1,000 copies of the virus per liter.

This is about 10,000 times lower than levels found in wastewater, which is toilet water that travels through a drainage system to a treatment facility.

Dr Richard Melvin, an assistant professor at the Medical School in Duluth, told KARE 11 he believes swimmers are transferring the virus into the beach water.

He said people infected COVID-19 can shed the virus in their stool for up to one month after their symptoms disappear.

'It's known that beaches can be contaminated by fecal matter due to human activity,' Melvin told the news station.

'It's also possible that the virus, if people are shedding, that could wind up in the water at the beach [too].'

There is currently no evidence that people can be infected with coronavirus through water as is possible with bacteria such as salmonella and E. coli.

The medical also states that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is 'not aware of any scientific reports that indicate the virus can spread to people through exposure to lake water.'

However, knowing the virus can be found in fresh water may offer clues about hw widespread the virus is in a communtiy.

'Understanding where to look for the virus is really key in how to deal with these types of infections in the future,' Melvin told KARE 11.

'Now knowing that we can find it in the lake water, it could be another indicator of the prevalence of the virus in the population that lives in that location.'

In the meantime, the University of Minnesota Medical School advised that anyone going to the beach wear masks and practice social distancing because COVID-19 is much more likely to spread on land.
Here is a partial list of all the people who will not enjoy Netflixs new series, Emily in Paris:

1. French people

2. French speakers

3. Expats who live in France

4. Anyone who has been to France

5. Anyone who has been exposed to any culture set in France

6. Anyone who has seen a picture of the Eiffel Tower

7. Anyone whos eaten a croissant

If you fall into any of these categories, Im afraid Emily in Paris is not for you. Still, we can be confident that despite these exemptions, millions of viewers stand ready and willing to lose themselves in this chic new comedy-drama. Netflix doesnt commission things by mistake, except maybe Marco Polo, and the Emily in Paris creator, Darren Star, was previously responsible for Sex and the City, Melrose Place and Beverly Hills 90210. He knows as well as anyone in the industry how to engineer something for an audience.

Lily Collins and Samuel Arnold in Emily in Paris (Carole Bethuel/Netflix)

Being an industrious Americaine, Emily turns up for work on the first day several hours early. Shes wearing a top with a picture of Paris on it, which brings to mind Alan Partridges girlfriend, Sonia, and her Beefeater teddy bear. Emilys French colleagues, led by her boss, Sylvie (Philippine Leroy-Beualieu), are justifiably unsympathetic to this obnoxious new arrival, who shouts at them in English about social media, using a translator on her iPhone when her colleagues English isnt up to it. Nobody will have lunch with her.

In the first episode, Emily Cooper (Lily Collins, daughter of Phil), an ambitious twentysomething from Chicago, is sent to work for a Parisian marketing agency that her American firm has just bought. She settles into her perfect little apartment, via some faintly agonising banter about how the French number their floors, and two meet-cutes with generic handsome white French men, the first of many. At first shes not interested, because shes trying to maintain a long-distance relationship with her generic handsome white Chicago boyfriend. Their relationship is as doomed as the Hindenberg.

Never fear, though. Soon Emily makes a friend in the form of a fellow-American Mindy (Ashley Park), one of the least credible nannies youll see. She, too, is dressed for a nightclub in LA. While Emily is ostracised at work, its not long before her social media posts start making her an influencer back home, a Caroline Calloway-esque manic pixie nightmare chronicling her cultural misadventures for the audience back home.

Even the trailer of Emily in Paris was enough to set Parisian tongues wagging. Some warned that visitors might be traumatised by this antiseptic vision of their town. Sure, its nonsense, but who will be sitting down to this expecting La Haine? The way to think of Emily in Paris is not to imagine that it is set in Paris at all, but a kind of Westworld-style Paris-themed amusement park in the midwest designed to teach` young women lessons in life and love. Its not much of a stretch, considering the way many tourists approach Paris. Nobody would dream of making a series like this about Malmo or Warsaw. There is an idea of the French capital, completely distinct from the real city, reinforced by hundreds if not thousands of books and films  Amelie, Midnight in Paris, Moulin Rouge, Ratatouille, Before Sunrise and, not coincidentally, the final series of Sex and the City. Emily in Paris is just Emily in Paris, and we ought to leave her there to get on with it.
RAMALLAH, West Bank  Hebron municipality, in the south of the West Bank, began long-awaited work Sept. 21 to expand and open the barrier known locally as the "Qalqas barrage" south of the city, which the Israeli forces closed more than 20 years ago.

Some 5,000 people live in Qalqas village. A highway known as Street 60 lies along one side, just minutes to the Hebron city center. With the outbreak of the 2000 intifada, the Israeli army blocked the entrance to the town with a dirt barrier, thus preventing residents from taking Street 60 to the city and forcing them to take a longer and more difficult route. People also cross the barrier and Street 60 on foot to reach vehicles they leave parked there, risking being run over on the highway.

Qalqas' residents have repeatedly tried in vain to open the road over the past 20 years.

The opening of the road will not only end the long drives to the city center, it will also enable economic, social and urban development in the area that consists of the sole outlet for the governorates urban expansion.

The deputy mayor of Hebron, Yusef Jabari, told Al-Monitor that the works to open the road started a few days ago, adding that the village is in a convenient location for development and the expansion of Hebron, sandwiched between the two sides of the city.

Jabari added that citizens who need to get to the city fast, such as students or people seeking medical care, often run across the highway. He said that eight people have been hit doing so since the barrier was erected.

Hebron municipalitys many requests that the Israeli authorities remove the barrier had all been rejected, Jabari noted. He went on, Since 2019, there have been efforts to work with the Israeli side, through the Palestinian Liaison Office, and Israel made suggestions such as building a tunnel under the highway [ostensibly to avoid contact with the area's settlers], which we opposed. The meetings and contacts continued until the Palestinian leadership decided to end all agreements reached with Israel.

He said that at that point, the municipality received an email from the Israeli authorities granting it permission to remove the barrier.

According to the plan agreed upon with the Israeli authorities, the Hebron municipality will build a large square on the site of the barrier and a new street running parallel to Street 60, complete with sidewalks and center islands, providing access to Hebron.

Jabari said that Israel has refused to execute or finance the project, forcing the Hebron municipality to cover the cost of about 4 million shekels ($1.16 million) from its own budget. He added that it's possible the local community and businesses will contribute 25% of the cost. He stated that the project will take three months and is expected to be completed before the end of the year.

Qalqas resident Zuhair Abu Daoud, 51, told Al-Monitor that reopening the road will end the suffering of the people who have been demonstrating for many years over the matter. He said that the Israeli authorities promised many times to open the road, but never delivered. He called on the municipality to hurry and complete the road before the Israeli authorities revoke their decision.

He said, When the road opens it will turn the area upside down, as the residents will reach the city faster and easier, and Qalqas will turn into a transit point to some of the surrounding areas.

He added, Qalqas and the surrounding area will recover experience many economic benefits because this road is so important. Many factories are expected to move their headquarters to that area because there is so much unused land available. Land prices are expected to double, and an urban development and real estate boom is anticipated, as it is a natural extension of the city of Hebron and businesses will be encouraged to invest there.

He went on to saying that there is a social aspect as well, as the village ends its semi-isolation. He said, The citizens refused to let their daughters marry young men living in Qalqas because it is hard to access the city. Some of my close friends have refused to visit me at home because it takes forever to get there.
A self-confessed former Essex 'party girl' has claimed her transatlantic romance saved her life and helped her wave goodbye to her wild lifestyle.

Kyra Dawson, 27, from Loughton, who has shared shocking before and after photos, didn't realise she had a problem and just thought she enjoyed a good time as she necked bottles of Prosecco then binged on up to five takeaways a day while hungover.

As her boozy antics spiralled out of control, her weight ballooned to 16 stone and she began hiding how much she partied from her adoptive mum, Marie Dawson.

However after a chance plea on Facebook for a man in May, her call was answered by Hunter Shepard, from Arizona, who had added her on social media after spotting their similar interests.

Kyra Dawson, 27, from Loughton, claims her transatlantic romance saved her life and helped her wave goodbye to her wild lifestyle. Pictured, when her boozy lifestyle left her eyes bloated and badly bloodshot in 2018

Kyra didn't realise she had a problem and just thought she enjoyed a good time as she necked bottles of Prosecco then binged on up to five takeaways a day while hungover. Pictured, posing for a photo when she was 16 stone

In May, Hunter Shepard (pictured together), from the US, added Kyra on social media after spotting their similar interests

As Hunter revealed he had overcome his own addictions, Kyra fell in love with her American hero's caring nature and took his advice to reign in her unhealthy lifestyle. Pictured, Hunter at the depths of his addiction

As Hunter revealed he had overcome his own addictions, Kyra fell in love with her American hero's caring nature and took his advice to reign in her unhealthy lifestyle - and 'hasn't even thought about having a drink' for the last couple of months.

Their relationship quickly blossomed and the 26-year-old came to stay with Kyra for six months earlier this month - and they became engaged on Sunday.

Incredible photos show the pair's transition, with Kyra's eyes appearing bloated and badly bloodshot after a weekend of partying in the before snap, and having lost four stone and looking like a different person in a second.

Meanwhile, images show Hunter covered in scabs and looking gaunt from the depths of his addictions, while recent snaps see him happy and healthy, hugging Kyra.

Kyra, pictured after her four stone weight loss, wearing her engagement ring shortly after Hunter proposed on Sunday

As a teenager Kyra began hiding alcohol from her adoptive mum and in her 20s her wild lifestyle spiralled out of control, resulting in her ballooning to 16 stone. Pictured, posing for a photo on a night out during her 'party girl' days

'I didn't know I had a problem, I just thought I was a party girl. I loved drinking and going out partying,' explained Kyra.

'For at least two years I was drinking loads of bottles of wine and prosecco, then when I was hungover I would have like five takeaways in a day, maybe even more. Then the day after that I would drink again, and it was like a cycle. That was my life.

'I realised I needed to change, but I relapsed a lot because I didn't have support. But now Hunter's like my rock.

'Since he's been here I honestly haven't even thought about having a drink. I have a fantastic sponsor who supports me, but most of it is because of him. He's saved my life.

'At the beginning I kind of just thought it was a bit of fun. Getting to know someone. I didn't think it would turn into something serious like this.'

As a teenager Kyra began hiding alcohol from her adoptive mum and in her 20s her wild lifestyle spiralled out of control, resulting in her ballooning to 16 stone.

After her adoptive mum died in 2018, Kyra realised she needed to change her ways, but she struggled to turn her back on the booze.

Kyra, pictured during her partying days, said she 'hasn't even thought about having a drink' for the last couple of months

Kyra pictured with her adoptive mum Marie Dawson before she passed away in 2018

Meanwhile, Hunter overcame his addiction in 2018 and works as business developer for a rehabilitation centre while also offering help to addicts looking to recover like he did.

He added Kyra on Facebook when he spotted her in an addiction recovery group but only plucked up the courage to message her a year later when she jokingly posted she was 'looking for a man'.

'He came across as very confident,' said Kyra. 'He was very cheeky, very flirty and that was exciting. We were talking pretty much every single day and were video calling each other.

'There wasn't even anything about our recovery when we started talking, but he told me he was helping people get into rehab and then the conversation came up.

'The fact that I knew he was helping people and that he had a huge understanding of addiction too. That's so attractive, and that's when I fell for him.

'He told me my mum wouldn't want me to be in this situation, she'd want you to be sober and have a beautiful life and I decided he was right.'

Four months later and Hunter touched down at Heathrow Airport to visit his new girlfriend, and the two are currently living in a room she rents in Essex while she focuses on her recovery.

Hunter covered in scabs and looking gaunt from the depths of his addictions (pictured)

Kyra (pictured, now) revealed that for at least two years she was drinking loads of bottles of wine and prosecco, then when she was hungover she would have like takeaways in a day

Hunter added Kyra on Facebook when he spotted her in an addiction recovery group but only plucked up the courage to message her a year later when she jokingly posted she was 'looking for a man' (pictured, together)

The 27-year-old admits she was worried about how well they'd click when they finally met in person, but it soon became apparent she didn't have anything to worry about.

'I was so worried he might have been a bit shorter than me, or he might have looked a bit different from seeing him on a screen,' said Kyra, 'I was really, really nervous.'

'It felt like Christmas, and when we met we clicked instantly. I felt like I'd known him for years and years, but I was incredibly nervous.

'We're just so comfortable with each other, like Hunter could be sitting on the other side of the bed and I'll be drawing.

'Sometimes we annoy each other but it's not a big deal and then we make up within like ten minutes.

'I'm not the easiest person to deal with. I'm very, very stroppy and I get frustrated quickly, but he's a calming influence on me. It probably helps that he's got a lovely American accent.'

Hunter (pictured now) overcame his addiction in 2018 and works as business developer for a rehabilitation centre while also offering help to addicts looking to recover like he did

Dad-of-one Hunter will return home to Yuma, Arizona, in December, but the pair are trying to work out how they can live together long-term (pictured, together)

Dad-of-one Hunter will return home to Yuma, Arizona, in December, but the pair are trying to work out how they can live together long-term.

Kyra said: 'There's no way he could move here because he has his daughter, which I appreciate, but I only have my friends here, so there's nothing that's keeping me back here.

'I'd probably go over there with a holiday visa, and see how we get on, but I would definitely consider moving over there if that had to be done.

'He gives me so much hope for a positive future. We have such a good friendship and have loads of plans for things we want to do.

'I'm enjoying life being sober so much more than when I was drinking and I never thought I'd be able to say that because drinking was my life.'

Hunter added: 'For me helping anyone find freedom from addiction is what I live for. I literally spend every day helping people. So when it comes to helping Kyra it's even more personal than it already is for me.

'However, she's done this for herself I just pushed her in the right direction. It's unbelievable what love can do. I believe what she needed was someone to love her and have faith in her.'
Brussels, Oct 1 : The European Union (EU) on Thursday started a legal action against the UK after it refused to ditch plans to override sections of the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement.

In a statement, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the UK had been put on formal notice over the Internal Market Bill, which would override a part of the agreement when it came to goods and allow the country to modify or re-interpret "state aid" rules on subsidies for firms in Northern Ireland, in the event of the two sides not agreeing on a future trade deal.

She said the UK would have until the end of November to respond to the EU's concerns over the draft legislation, reports the BBC.

She the bill was a "full contradiction" of previous UK commitments over how a hard border on the island of Ireland should be avoided.

The EU had given UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson until the end of September to ditch the contentious clauses, but "the deadline had lapsed", von der Leyen was quoted as saying in a Guardian report.

"We had invited our British friends to remove the problematic parts of their draft internal market bill, by the end of September.

"This draft bill is, by its very nature, a breach of the obligation of good faith, laid down in the withdrawal agreement. Moreover, if adopted as is it will be in full contradiction to the protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland.

"The problematic provisions have not been removed. Therefore this morning, the commission has decided to send a letter of formal notice to the UK government. This is the first step in an infringement procedure," she added in the statement.

Meanwhile, the UK said it would respond "in due course", the BBC reported.

A spokesperson for the Johnson government said the bill was a necessary "safety net" to protect trade between different parts of the UK.

Thursday's announcement came after Maros Sefcovic, Vice-President of the European Commission for Interinstitutional Relations said on Monday that the EU was mulling legal options if the UK breaches the Brexit deal.

The UK left the EU on January 31, having negotiated and signed the withdrawal agreement, which is now an international treaty, with the bloc, the BBC reported.

The two sides are now in the closing weeks of negotiations for a post-Brexit trade deal before the transition period ends on December 31.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
- The the Central Bank of Kenya governor announced the waiver granted to borrowers in March lapsed on Wednesday, September 30

- The regulator said it would not extend the period giving creditors the greenlight to blacklist borrowers on CRBs

- Njoroge asked the defaulters to regularise their loans within the next three months to avoid being listed

- Borrowers who fail to do so will have their names appear on the three Kenyan CRBs starting January 2021

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Thousands of borrowers risk being blacklisted with the Credit Reference Bureaus (CRBs) after bad loan listing moratorium lapsed on Wednesday, September 30.

The Central Bank of Kenya Governor Patrick Njoroge. Photo: Citizen TV.

Source: UGC

This followed a decision by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) not to extend the waiver granted to loan defaulters in March 2020 as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The CBK Governor Patrick Njoroge gave creditors the green light to list loan defaulters starting Thursday, October 1, saying the waiver had achieved its desired effects.

The point here is to emphasise we are going back to the normal operations, the way things used to happen and thats where we will be from October 1, Njoroge said.

The Central Bank of Kenya. Photo: The Star.

Source: UGC

The CBK boss who was speaking at the post monitory committee meeting implored on defaulters to regularise their loan repayments within the next three months to avoid being blacklisted.

And there is a process where they will indicate if lets say you have not paid loans, you have 60 days," said Njoroge.

"They will give you 30 days so you have three months to regularise whatever you had not paid, he added.

The defaulters will appear in the books of the three CRBs, Metropol, TransUnion and Creditinfo starting January 2021 after the expiry of the 90 days notice.

He further denied insinuation that the regulator was out to influence on exchange rates insisting it was market-determined.

"It has reflected a change in the attitude of the banks where they are working with the customer," said Njoroge.

"Rember we talked about the banking sector charter where actually they should be much more customer-centric and work with the customer," he added.

The CRB listing relief was part of the stimulus package announced on March 25, to cushion distressed Kenyans and businesses from the effects of the pandemic.

The announcement by the CBK governor comes at a time when the bank was struggling with mounting unpaid loans whose share is reported to have risen to the highest level since 2007.

Over 3.2 million Kenyans were reportedly negatively listed as loan defaulters with the CRBs before the outbreak in an economy where job cuts had left thousands of people in a debt trap.

Data from the three CRBs showed the accounts negatively listed had jumped from 2.7 million in 2019, most of them linked to mobile digital borrowers.

The default rates jumped in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak.

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Source: TUKO.co.ke
Glasgow, Oct 1 : Superstar Akshay Kumar and his co-stars of Bell Bottom have completed the shoot of the film in the United Kingdom amid the pandemic.

On Thursday, Akshay expressed his happiness on completing the project and also unveiled a new poster of the film, which is directed by Ranjit M. Tewari, and co-stars Vaani Kapoor, Huma S. Qureshi and Lara Dutta Bhupathi.

In the new poster, Akshay looks dapper in a suit, with shades on his eyes and a bag in hand.

"It's teamwork and I am grateful to each and every member of the cast and crew from the spot dadas to the light dadas to the technicians to the make-up dadas to my lovely heroines Vaani, Lara, Huma, my director Ranjit and to Vashuji and the production team who believed in our audacious plan," Akshay said, about completing the overseas shoot at Glasgow, Scotland.

"The new normal has made us realise a different way of working that none of us could have imagined. I hope this encourages film industries globally to do what they do best and start entertaining audiences again. I hope our shoot during the pandemic reassures others that keeping all safety in mind it's time to get things moving again," the actor added.

On finishing the shoot on time amid pandemic, Vaani hoped it "gives encouragement and confidence to other people back home to shoot".

"Bell Bottom" is scheduled to release on April 2, 2021.
Questo comunicato e stato pubblicato piu di 1 anno fa. Le informazioni su questa pagina potrebbero non essere attendibili.

Gypsum Board Market Growth & Trends

The global gypsum board market size is anticipated to reach USD 100.73 billion by 2027, according to a new report by Grand View Research Inc. It is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 11.9% in terms of revenue, during the forecast period. Increasing utilization of gypsum boards in decorative and partitioning applications in residential constructions is anticipated to drive the market.

Rise in the construction industry is likely to provide growth opportunities to the market players. The demand for gypsum boards is driven by the residential sector, where the product is widely used in multi-family constructions for room partitioning. Durability and lightweight coupled with easy handling of the product are some of the factors anticipated to propel the demand.

Product availability in the form of wallboards, ceiling boards, and pre-decorated boards are the factors positively influencing the popularity of gypsum boards in construction applications. These boards are accepted in commercial, institutional, and industrial facilities for impact and mold resistance, exterior sheathing and shaft wall constructions. Moreover, the availability of decorative designs on the boards is likely to support the growth over the forecast period.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved the use of Flue Gas Desulphurization (FGD) Gypsum as a substitute to mined gypsum for the production of wallboards. A major proportion of the gypsum used in the wallboard production in FGS gypsum with low environmental impact and reduced mining operations to extract gypsum.

Request a free sample copy or view report summary: Gypsum Board Market Report

Gypsum Board Market Report Highlights

Gypsum wallboard is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 11.6% over the projected period owing to wide utilization of the product in partitioning and decorative application majorly in multi-family residential constructions

In 2019, residential application held the dominant market share of 47.2% and is likely to ascend at the highest CAGR over the forecast period on account of rising need for the construction of multi-family houses in Asia Pacific and North America

In North America, the revenue for gypsum ceiling board stood at USD 3.85 billion in 2019 and is expected to witness growth over the forecast period, owing to its wide acceptance in the ceiling and decorative applications

The U.S. gypsum board market is expected to realize gains at a CAGR of 10.6% from 2020 to 2027 due to presence of a well-established construction industry and acceptance of enhancing construction materials

Saint-Gobain accounted for the major market share in the past with gypsum solutions offered under brands, such as Certainteed, British Gypsum, Gyproc, Rigips, and Placo

Gypsum Board Market Segmentation

Grand View Research has segmented the global gypsum board market on the basis of product, application, and region:

Gypsum Board Product Outlook (Volume, Million Square Meters; Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2027)

Wallboard

Ceiling Board

Pre-decorated Board

Others

Gypsum Board Application Outlook (Volume, Million Square Meters; Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2027)

Pre-Engineered Metal Buildings

Residential

Industrial

Commercial

Institutional

Gypsum Board Regional Outlook (Volume, Million Square Meters; Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2027)

North America US. Canada Mexico

Europe Germany UK. Russia

Asia Pacific China India Japan South Korea

Central & South America Brazil

Middle East & Africa Bahrain Kuwait Qatar Oman Saudi Arabia UAE Jordan Iraq Iran Egypt Syria Turkey Libya Sudan



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.
The Royal Institute of British Architects has named Ghanaian-British architect Sir David Adjaye the recipient of its 2021 Royal Gold Medal, one of the highest accolades in the field. The judges praised Adiaye as a singular and timely talent and a strong reminder of the insightful and integrative role of the architect. Its the first time in the awards 172-year history that its been presented to a Black architect. Adjaye joins a pantheon of Royal Gold recipients that includes Frank Lloyd Wright (1941), Kenzo Tange (1965), Charles and Ray Eames (1979), Rem Koolhaas (2004), and Zaha Hadid (2016).

Its incredibly humbling and a great honor to have my peers recognize the work I have developed with my team and its contribution to the field over the past 25 years, Adjaye, 54, said in a statement. Architecture, for me, has always been about the creation of beauty to edify all peoples around the world equally and to contribute to the evolution of the craft. Adjaye has created dazzlingly unique homes, commercial properties, product designs, exhibition spaces, and major arts centers through a career defined by contrasts.

Lost House in Londons Kings Cross neighborhood, for example, has no exterior windows. But a series of light wells flood the home with sunlight that bounces off the black resin floors. The committee praised Adjayes work as contradictory and yet coherent, balancing light and dark, elegance and austerity, weightlessness, and weight.

Sugar Hill Housing, New York, United States. Architect: David Adjaye, 2014. Photo: Getty Images

The son of a Ghanian diplomat, Adjaye was born in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, in 1966two years after the country gained its independence from Great Britain. His childhood was cosmopolitan and privileged: Adjaye was educated by private tutors as his family moved to Uganda, Egypt, Yemen, Ghana, Saudi Arabia, and Lebanon before settling in London in 1977. He earned a B.A. at London South Bank University in 1990 and, three years later, a masters from the Royal College of Art. In 2000, he launched his own firm, Adjaye Associates. Today it has offices in London, Accra, and New York, and commissions all over the world. Though keen to avoid being labeled a Black architect, Adjaye acknowledges the role his roots play in his work.

Story continues

I think you are always a product of what you do and where you came from  you are shaped by your background, he told Designboom. I was very inspired by the world and the things that I saw, but what inspired me wasnt the artifacts or the quality of architecture, but the power of architecture to shape societies. He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2017, the same year Time magazine named Adjaye one of the years most influential people.

Celebrity clients have included actor Ewan McGregor, painter Chris Ofili, photographer Juergen Teller, and designer Alexander McQueen. But Adjaye has also put his stamp on major civic and cultural projects, including the Nobel Peace Center in Oslo and the Aishti Foundation complex in Beirut. He called designing the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., the defining project of my career. Completed in 2016, the 31,000-square foot museum filled the last plot on the National Mall (where enslaved people were once auctioned) with a shimmering three-tiered facade inspired by a Yoruba crown. Among other projects, Adjaye is currently working on the National Cathedral for Ghana in Accra, the Studio Museum in Harlem, and the Abrahamic Family House interfaith complex in Abu Dhabi, which will house a mosque, church, and synagogue.

Exploring Our Nation's Capital: Washington D.C. Photo: Getty Images/George Rose

The social impact of this discipline has been and will continue to be the guiding force in the experimentation that informs my practice, he said. The ongoing pandemic meant most of RIBAs awards were postponed until next yearincluding the prestigious Stirling Prize, given to the years best new building. To maintain the consistency and rigor of our judging process, all RIBA Awardwinning projects must be visited in person, therefore it is unfortunately not possible to continue with this years awards, the organization said in a statement on its website. But because the Royal Gold Award is given for an architects entire oeuvre, rather than a single building, it was not impacted. This years selection committee included RIBA president Alan Jones, 2020 Royal Gold Medal recipient Shelley McNamara, architects Lesley Lokko and Dorte Mandrup, and structural engineer Hanif Kara.

Through his work as an architect Sir David Adjaye speaks confidently across cultures, disciplines, politics, and continents, the committee said. His work reveals a core belief in the generative power of architecture. In a world that has become polarized he brings politics, art, and science together with architecture, as he works to create a better future. Jones praised Adjaes work as local and specific and at the same time global and inclusive. His artistic and social vision has created public projects that perfectly demonstrate the civic potential of architecturefostering empathy, identity, and pride.

Originally Appeared on Architectural Digest
Customers at Sharkeys Bar & Grill and those who attended a house party in Syracuse may have been exposed to the novel coronavirus, according to Onondaga County Health Department officials.

Two patrons at Sharkeys tested positive for Covid-19 after going to the bar from 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Thursday, officials said. The bar is at 7240 Oswego Road in Clay.

One person who attended a party at a house on Boston Street on Sept. 19 also tested positive for Covid-19, county officials said. The party lasted from 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. and was open to the public, so the health department has been unable to identify all who attended, officials said.

People who may have been exposed should monitor themselves for symptoms of COVID-19 for 14 days from the date of potential exposure, officials said.

If symptoms do develop, stay home and call your doctor for further guidance, they said. If you are elderly, have underlying medical conditions, or are immunocompromised, call your doctor early even if your illness is mild.

Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact Chris Libonati via the Signal app for encrypted messaging at 585-290-0718, by phone at the same number, by email or on Twitter.
Solidity of the activity and results, despite the health crisis and increase in R&D investments

Cash position of 19.9 million at June 30, 2020, excluding the State-Guaranteed Loan

Order book up 14% despite the health crisis

Successful roll-out of the new model based on 3 Business Units, in accordance with the Group's new strategy

Regulatory News:

ONCODESIGN (Paris:ALONC) (ALONC FR0011766229), a biopharmaceutical group specialized in precision medicine, announces its results for the first half of 2020 and issues a business update.

Philippe GENNE, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Oncodesign, says: "Within a context marked by an unprecedented global public health crisis in the first semester, Oncodesign has deployed a business continuity plan that has enabled to remain operational to serve clients, drive projects forward and continue the strategic development. The Group has shown resilience, with operating revenue of 18.1 million and a net profit at June 30, 2020. Our total revenue, on a like-for-like basis (excluding upfront and milestone payments), of 11.8 million in the first half of 2020 has held up, with a record cash position of 19.9 million. The first half was also marked by the success of our collaboration with Servier's laboratories on the LRRK2 project that provided us with a 1 million milestone payment. The RIPK2 project with its First-in-class ODS 101 inhibitor, is following its development plan to the letter, and its IND is still scheduled for June 2021. We are now equipped to meet the targets we have set for 2023: i.e. pursue the clinical development of our drug candidates, support the development of Drug Discovery while consolidating our multi-year Drug Development service partnership offer (DDSA) and Integrated Drug Discovery (IDDS) offer to drive Service revenue and EBITDA growth. The Oncodesign teams and I are more than ever focusing on the Group's future, as illustrated by the stakes recently acquired by members of the Company's Senior Management team

Arnaud LAFFORGUE, Chief Financial Officer of Oncodesign, continues: "From the start of the year, we implemented the growth plan for the next five years and structured our company into three Business Units. Lastly, despite this unprecedented context in which Business Development has been directly penalized, we have recorded a 14% increase in incoming orders compared to last year, to 11.6 million, driven by the signing of a number of multi-year contracts in Asia and Europe. Also, in the first half of the year, we have launched the integrated Drug Discovery service offer, DRIVE, including in partnership with Chinese company Hitgen, and a new service offer dedicated to COVID-19 in association with IDMIT, providing a response to the high level of demand on this market, the latter leading to a substantial order book with revenue prospects on this offer in the second half of 2020. In addition, for the first time, the income statements of 2 main BUs are presented, namely the Service BU and the Biotech BU for the first half of 2020 compared to the homogeneous figures for the first half of 2019 in order to better highlight the performance and challenges of its activities."

 millions

Consolidated figures under French accounting standards H1 2020 H1 2019 Sales 11.81 14.10 Other revenue 6.29 5.96 Total operating revenue 18.10 20.06 Operating expenses (18.42) (19.55) Operating profit (0.32) 0.51 Financial income and expenses (0.25) (0.19) Exceptional income and expenses 0.24 (0.11) Income Taxes (0.13) 0.03 Share of profit/(loss) from associates Amortization of goodwill 0.50 0.50 Attributable net profit 0.04 0.73 Cash position (at June 30) 19.9 13.3

First-half 2020 financial results

The Group generated revenue of 11.8 million in the first half of 2020, down 16% compared with H1 2019, due to both the decrease in Biotech revenue, with a milestone payment of 1 million in H1 2020 versus an upfront of 3 million over the same period last year, and, for the Service revenue, resulting from the public health crisis.

Other operating revenue, which totaled 6.29 million in the first half, was up by 5.5% compared with the first half of 2019, and consisted primarily of the following:

the subsidy received from GSK, within the framework of the acquisition of the Francois Hyafil center, which amounted to 3.96 million in the first half of 2020 (6 months pro rata temporis). The final payment was carried out in January 2020;

the 12% increase in French and Canadian Research Tax Credit to 1.66 million, directly associated with investments in internal programs (RIPK2, MNK1/2) and on AI.

Operating expenses totaled 18.42 million, down because of the reduction in variable costs such as purchases of external subcontracting services and business trips because of the pandemic. Personnel expenses were stable at 9.2 million (+1.3%) as a result of the decision taken at the start of the year, given the first effects of the pandemic on the economy, to freeze all wage increases that normally take place at this time of the year. However, it is worth noting the effect of the full presence over the first half of the year of the new staff recruited during the second half of 2019, i.e. an additional 9 people.

Research Development investments amounted to 5.41 million in the first half of 2020, versus 4.0 million at June 30, 2019. This acceleration in spending (+35%) was primarily associated with the RIPK2 program's regulatory preclinical phase, entirely financed by Oncodesign.

Thanks to good management of operating expenses, down 1.1 million (-6%), there was an operating loss of -320k, a controlled decrease of 830k compared with the first half of 2019 in view of the investment efforts undertaken over the period.

The net profit remained close to zero (+40k), despite a financial income deteriorated due to the effect of exchange rate fluctuations (US$) for 125k. In addition, the restatement of goodwill, following the sell and lease-back of the Les Ulis building, enabled income of 500k to be recognized in consolidated accounts.

Cash position

The Company had cash and cash equivalents of 19.9 million at June 30, 2020, a substantial increase of +50% compared with June 30, 2019 (13.3 million) despite the Group's considerable R&D investments. This figure includes the 1.0 million milestone payment received from Servier, the 7.92 million GSK subsidy received for 2020 and the Research Tax Credit for 2018 (3.5 million not redeemed at the end of 2019 and regularized in April 2020) and 2019, 3.2 million and usually received at the end of the following year. Lastly, it should be noted that this cash position was achieved without, as yet, incorporating the State-Guaranteed Loan.

First-half 2020 business update and outlook

SERVICE BU

Income Statement Service BU Data in millions of euros H1'20 H1'19 Evolution Sales 14.00 13.76 + 1.8% Direct costs (2.85) (2.86) - 0.3% Gross margin 11.16 10.90 + 2.3% Internal costs (9.56) (10.18) - 6.1% Net margin 1.60 0.72 + 121.6% Other costs and revenues (0.93) (1.87) - 50.0% EBITDA 0.67 (1.15) +1.8M

Following completion of the new organization, the Service BU, which has 203 employees, realizes a total revenue of 14M by cumulating the "External" revenues corresponding to the sales realized with Oncodesign's customers, and the "Internal" revenues1 carried out for the execution of work related to our therapeutic projects for the Biotech BU (RIPK2, LRRK2, MNK1/2). It is stable compared to last year at the same date (+260 K).

External revenues amounted to 9.03 million over the period, a decrease of 10% in the first half of the year, following the economic slowdown associated with the global health crisis. Oncodesign SA (worldwide clients excluding the USA and Canada) recorded a 13.6% decrease in revenue to 7.71 million, while revenue generated in North America (USA and Canada) remained dynamic, increasing by 18.4% to 1.4 million. The latter's growing weight with it now accounting for 16% of revenue compared to 10% in 2019 demonstrates its strategic role for the Service Business Unit, thus justifying its development over the coming years. Moreover, activity recorded in Asia (Japan and South Korea) has also grown rapidly over the last 3 years, with this region now accounting for 7% of total first-half 2020 revenue compared to just 2% in 2018. This international development reflects the substantial investments undertaken by the Company, and notably the strengthening of the sales teams.

Internal revenues increased by 30% to almost 5 million following the acceleration of our programs for the Biotech BU.

In terms of EBITDA, the BU achieves an increase of 1.8 million to reach 0.67 million in the first half of 2020, representing an improvement in EBITDA margin of 13.1% from -8.3% to +4.8% (thanks to good cost control and increased productivity as a result of the new BU organization). This performance illustrates the Service BU's ability to improve its operational performance by optimizing its productivity and internal organization. These figures give us confidence in the Service BU's ability to achieve its profitability objectives at term.

The objectives of the Service BU are to accelerate the development of the sale of integrated and long-term service contracts for growth in Service revenues and EBITDA.

A COVID-19 offer has been developed in association with IDMIT. This offer is seeing very high demand in the current context, particularly as few companies have the infrastructure and expertise to undertake this type of service. This offer has promising revenue potential, both for the short term in H2 and for the coming years.

Impact of the Covid pandemic: the activation of our Business Continuity Plan and the continuation of activity on our sites and in our laboratories allows us to undertake the work entrusted to us by our clients. To date, we have not recorded widespread order cancellations from our clients. The procurement of supplies is still possible for most of our consumables/raw materials; delivery times are occasionally longer but this isn't blocking our work. Lastly, the nature of our portfolio of offers, notably multi-year programs, guarantees us a level of recurrent activity scheduled over the long term. In contrast, the booking of orders for one-off and non-recurrent offers could be penalized, with the cancellation of conferences and ongoing travel restrictions impeding the fieldwork of our sales staff, without us currently being able to assess the precise impact.

Oncodesign's 2023 targets are notably, for the Service BU, to achieve revenue of 50 million and EBITDA of between 15% and 20%.

BIOTECH BU

Income Statement Biotech BU Data in millions of euros H1'20 H1'19 Sales 2.78 4.00 Direct costs (5.71) (5.58) Gross margin (2.93) (1.58) Internal costs (0.42) (0.97) Net margin (3.34) (2.55) Other costs and revenues 0.02 0.43 EBITDA (3.32) (2.12)

Biotech revenues consist mainly of the sale of partnerships and licensing resulting from Nanocyclix: so in the short term from Up-fronts Milestones and the coverage of research costs of the Servier Partnership for LRRK2. Thus, its sales reached 2.8 million in the first half of 2020, versus last year's figure of 4 million that included the initial 3 million payment by Servier, within the framework of the strategic partnership sealed in March 2019 to develop LRRK2 kinase inhibitors as a treatment for Parkinson's Disease. Revenue relating to work on LRRK2 increased by +78% to 1.8 million and the program is progressing rapidly in accordance with its initial schedule.

Costs in the Biotech BU are under control thanks to our efforts to rationalize our expenses, in connection with the new allocation of scientific staff and the control of our purchases.

However, the medium-term trend of this BU, whose programs are progressing according to their development plan, should enable it to achieve milestones in the coming semesters.

The objectives of the Biotech BU are to continue to ensure the ramping up of our pipeline via the selection of, on the one hand, kinase inhibitor drug candidates resulting from Nanocyclix technology and, on the other hand, external opportunities on other targets.

Biotech's prime focus is to develop the maturity of our therapeutic pipeline by taking our molecules to the clinical development stage: RIPK2, LRRK2 and MNK1/2 inhibitors in oncology.

At the end of 2019, the substantial investment efforts undertaken in R&D enabled Oncodesign to select a First-in-Class drug candidate, a RIPK2 kinase inhibitor, for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, which represents a first step in the creation of expected value. As a reminder, Oncodesign initially planned to finance the development of ODS 101 up to the IND (significant risk-limiting step on the inhibitor by regulatory multi-species toxicity studies), programmed in June 2021, while looking for a Pharma partner.

In February 2020, Servier and Oncodesign announced that they had reached a major milestone several months ahead of schedule, within the framework of their strategic partnership in the research and development of drug candidates to treat Parkinson's disease (LRRK2 program). Oncodesign received a first milestone payment of 1 million associated with the program's first success.

Moreover, discussions are ongoing with new partners to enable the resumption of the clinical development of the mutated EGFR radiotracer. Regarding the partnership with Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMS), after the internalization of the program at the end of 2018, the company decided to stop the program for toxicity reasons related to the target. The intellectual property concerning the molecules has been returned to Oncodesign, which is free to exploit them. Lastly, the MNK1/2 program is continuing to move forward, the aim being to reach the pre-candidate stage by the end of 2020.

Impact of the Covid pandemic:for the Biotech Business Unit, as a result of our autonomy on work programs, the pandemic has had little impact on our activity or the ramping up of our pipeline. However, we are observing a slowing down of Big Pharma decision-making and therefore partner research processes for RIPK2.

Oncodesign is aiming to take 3 products to the clinical phase by 2023.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE BU

The objective of the AI BU is to continue the development of our strategic technological pillars using AI: structure the Precision Medicine platform of the 21st century

On the basis of the OncosnipeTM project, whose launch 3 years ago initiated the application of AI technologies to the detection of new therapeutic targets and enabled the creation of an internal center of expertise on this subject, a third Business Unit dedicated to Artificial Intelligence was created in April 2020, under the direction of Stephane Gerart.

Impact of the Covid pandemic: the OncosnipeTM project was penalized by the public health crisis in the first half, as it relies on a clinical trial whose patient enrollments had to be suspended during this period. In return, we opened 5 new clinical centers and received the associated BPI subsidy of 0.4 million at the end of June within the framework of the PSPC competitive cluster structuring project.

This BU is aiming to build, by 2023, a platform to identify and validate new therapeutic targets and to increase the Drug Discovery process' reliability and reduce its development times, while developing revenue streams by providing research services to industry.

Oncodesign's first-half 2020 financial report is available in French on the Company's website:

www.oncodesign.com

Next investor meeting: Investir Direct Dirigeants event in Paris on Tuesday October 6, 2020

About ONCODESIGN: www.oncodesign.com

Founded 25 years ago by Dr. Philippe Genne, the Company's CEO and Chairman, Oncodesign is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to precision medicine. With its unique experience acquired by working with more than 800 clients, including the world's largest pharmaceutical companies, along with its comprehensive technological platform combining state-of-the-art medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, regulated bioanalysis, medical imaging and Artificial Intelligence, Oncodesign is able to predict and identify, at a very early stage, each molecule's therapeutic usefulness and potential to become an effective drug. Applied to kinase inhibitors, which represent a market estimated at over $65 billion by 2027 and accounting for almost 25% of the pharmaceutical industry's R&D expenditure, Oncodesign's technology has already enabled the targeting of several promising molecules with substantial therapeutic potential, in oncology and elsewhere, along with partnerships with pharmaceutical groups such as Bristol-Myers Squibb. Oncodesign is based in Dijon, France, in the heart of the town's university and hospital hub, and within the Paris-Saclay cluster. Oncodesign has 233 employees and subsidiaries in Canada and the USA.

Disclaimer

This press release contains certain forward looking statements and estimates concerning the Company's financial condition, operating results, strategy, projects and future performance and the markets in which it operates. Such forward-looking statements and estimates may be identified by words such as "anticipate," "believe," "can," "could," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "is designed to," "may," "might," "plan," "potential," "predict," "objective," "should," or the negative of these and similar expressions. They incorporate all topics that are not historical facts. Forward looking statements, forecasts and estimates are based on management's current assumptions and assessment of risks, uncertainties and other factors, known and unknown, which were deemed to be reasonable at the time they were made but which may turn out to be incorrect. Events and outcomes are difficult to predict and depend on factors beyond the Company's control. Consequently, the actual results, financial condition, performances and/or achievements of the Company or of the industry may turn out to differ materially from the future results, performances or achievements expressed or implied by these statements, forecasts and estimates. Owing to these uncertainties, no representation is made as to the correctness or fairness of these forward-looking statements, forecasts and estimates. Furthermore, forward-looking statements, forecasts and estimates speak only as of the date on which they are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any of them, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

1 Internal revenues are neutralized in consolidated data since they are offset by direct costs in the Biotech BU's income statement

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201001005774/en/

Contacts:

Oncodesign

Philippe Genne

Chairman and CEO

Tel.: +33 (0)3 80 78 82 60

investisseurs@oncodesign.com

NewCap

Investor Relations

Mathilde Bohin Louis-Victor Delouvrier

Tel.: +33 (0)1 44 71 94 95

oncodesign@newcap.eu

NewCap

Media Relations

Arthur Rouille

Tel.: +33 (0)1 44 71 00 15

oncodesign@newcap.eu
French President Emmanuel Macron was philosophical on Wednesday in his appeal for global efforts to reverse biodiversity loss, saying it is the life insurance of humans.

The protection of nature raises the fundamental ethical issue of the protection of human beings. Above all, the protection of biodiversity is the protection of ecosystems, he spoke at the UN Biodiversity Summit.

I do not believe that the right of any other living creature is higher than a human right. But I do not believe in the effectiveness of preserving human rights without preserving the ecosystems. For me, this is the philosophical and ethical basis of this battle for biodiversity, Macron said.

Scientists have long been alerting about the risks of new infectious diseases due to deforestation and the poaching of wild species, by showing the links between human, animal and environmental health. The Covid-19 pandemic reminds that biodiversity is the life insurance of humans.

When it is weakened, our health security and our economic security are at stake, said Macron.

He stressed the need to step up the fight against environmental crime, and to put a definitive end to all illegal activities that endanger nature, destroy ecosystems, feed corruption, hinder the development of rule of law and, ultimately undermine the sustainable development of humanity.

He called for public investment to enable the transformation. The French recovery plan will devote more than 1 billion euros (1.17 billion US dollars) to biodiversity and the fight against land degradation, he said.

If 2020 is the year of awareness, 2021 must be the year of action, Macron said.

France will mobilize for the adoption of an ambitious new global strategic framework for the protection of biodiversity at next years UN Biodiversity Conference in Kunming, China, he said.

Like the Paris Agreement on climate change, we would like this agreement to include quantified and measurable commitments, as well as a clear implementation and accountability mechanism, he said.

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Construction of the project's first 3.8 million-tonne-per-annum (Mtpa) processing plant and surface infrastructure at the high-grade Kakula Mine more than 52% complete, with first production less than a year away

Orders now being placed for the long-lead items for the project's second 3.8 Mtpa processing plant

Development from Kakula's southern decline nearing the centre of the orebody, where grades average between +5% and +8% copper

Pre-production surface stockpiles at Kakula North, Kakula South and Kansoko now contain an estimated 803,000 tonnes of ore

Kolwezi, Democratic Republic of Congo--(Newsfile Corp. - October 1, 2020) -Ivanhoe Mines (TSX: IVN) (OTCQX: IVPAF) Co-Chairs Robert Friedland and Yufeng "Miles" Sun announced today that underground development at the Kamoa-Kakula Copper Project totalled 2,069 metres in September, setting a new monthly record for the project and bringing the total underground development to more than 22.6 kilometres - approximately 7.0 kilometres, or 44% ahead of schedule.

The project's monthly total of 2,069 metres of underground development is comprised of 1,696 metres at the Kakula Mine and 373 metres at the Kansoko Mine, which is located at the Kamoa Deposit - approximately 10 kilometres north of the Kakula Mine.

Several underground development headings at the Kakula Mine now have transitioned into the higher-grade ore zones near the centre of the deposit, grading between approximately +5% copper and +8% copper. October will be the first month of mining in Kakula's high-grade ore from the southern access drives, and this ore will be stored on a separate high-grade surface stockpile near the southern decline. Mining on the northern side of the orebody also will soon intersect the higher grade ore.

The main access drives between northern and southern declines have less than 520 metres remaining before they connect in the high-grade centre of the deposit. The connection is expected to occur next month and will significantly increase ventilation to the centre of the orebody, allowing for additional mining crews to begin work in Kakula's high-grade ore zones.

In addition to driving the main connecting access drives, underground mining crews at Kakula are focused on preparation work for developing the high grade, drift-and-fill stoping blocks in the centre of the orebody, where the average grade is up to plus 8% copper. Opening up of the mining footprint for these high-grade stoping areas entails development work in areas of low-, medium- and high-grade ore, and is designed to coincide with the start-up of the processing plant next year. This will allow mining crews to deliver high-grade stoping ore directly from the underground to the processing plant.

Drift-and-fill stoping is a highly-efficient form of underground mechanized mining and will allow the operation to efficiently recover significantly more tonnes from the orebody. Once drift-and-fill stoping operations begin, mining at the Kakula Mine will produce a significantly higher proportion of high-grade stoping ore than lower-grade development ore.

Underground development at the Kansoko Mine currently is in low-to-medium-grade ore zones, grading between approximately +2% and +3% copper. Kansoko is being developed by training crews and will be a supplemental source of ore when the Kakula concentrator processing capacity doubles to 7.6 Mtpa - currently planned to be commissioned in Q2 2022.

Pre-production surface ore stockpiles now total more than 803,000 tonnes

In September, mining crews at the Kakula and Kansoko mines produced and transported to surface approximately 132,000 tonnes of ore, bringing the project's total pre-production ore stockpiles to an estimated 803,000 tonnes. September's ore production is approximately 24% higher than August.

The ore being mined from the northern portion of the Kakula Mine is transported to surface via the conveyor system and placed on a blended surface stockpile that now contains 540,000 tonnes grading an estimated 3.73% copper; comprised of 125,000 tonnes of high-grade ore grading 6.00% copper, and 415,000 tonnes of medium-grade ore grading 3.05% copper.

Two additional, pre-production ore stockpiles are located at the Kakula South decline (approximately 168,000 tonnes grading 2.73% copper) and the Kansoko decline (approximately 95,000 tonnes grading 2.34% copper).

"The new underground record achieved in September puts development progress months ahead of plan," said Mark Farren, Kamoa Copper's CEO. "With each passing month, our mining and engineering teams are increasingly confident that the forecasted mining productivity rates used in our engineering studies are conservative - a testament to the focus and dedication of the project's mining crews as well as the remarkable consistency of the Kakula and Kansoko orebodies."

"The next major milestone in the mine's development will be the joining of the northern and southern access drives, which is expected in November. Once this is achieved, the opening up and ledging of the drift-and-fill blocks can commence in the high-grade core of the deposit, where the average grade is up to plus 8% copper," Mr. Farren added.

First copper production expected in less than a year

Initial production at the Kakula Mine processing plant is scheduled for Q3 2021. Kakula is projected to be the world's highest-grade major copper mine, with an initial mining rate of 3.8 Mtpa at an estimated average feed grade of more than 6.0% copper over the first five years of operation. Kakula is the first of multiple, planned, high-grade mining areas on the 400-square-kilometre Kamoa-Kakula mining licence.

The Kakula Mine will have one of the most favourable environmental footprints of any tier-one copper mine worldwide. The mine will be powered by clean, renewable hydroelectricity and be among the world's lowest greenhouse gas emitters per unit of copper produced. Kakula also will have a relatively small surface footprint, as approximately 55% of the mine's tailings will be pumped back into underground workings.





Image 1: All long-lead items for Kakula's initial 3.8-Mtpa processing plant now have been delivered to site with the exception of the transformers, which are currently en route and expected around the third week of October.

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Image 2: Aerial view of the Kakula Mine showing the tonnes and grade of the main pre-production stockpiles at the northern declines. The stockpile currently contains approximately 540,000 tonnes grading 3.73% copper; comprised of approximately 125,000 tonnes at 6.00% copper and 415,000 tonnes at 3.05% copper.



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Image 3: Miner Fabrice Kasunka marking the face for drilling in the room-and-pillar mining area of the Kakula Mine.

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Image 4: Kakula southern decline medium-grade ore stockpile currently containing approximately 168,000 tonnes grading 2.73% copper.



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Image 5: Miner Haliday Mujinga operating an Epiroc double-boom drilling rig at Kakula.

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Image 6: Kansoko decline medium-grade ore stockpile currently containing approximately 95,000 tonnes grading 2.34% copper. Recently-erected transmission towers for the new 35-kilometre powerline that will carry high-voltage hydroelectricity from the national grid to Kamoa-Kakula can be seen in the background.

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Development work at the Kakula Mine now concentrated on accessing the high-grade stoping zones within the next six months

Underground development of the Kakula Mine - the first of multiple, near-surface copper deposits planned to be put into production on the 400-square-kilometre Kamoa-Kakula mining licence - is significantly ahead of schedule. Mine connection drives (interconnected, parallel tunnels providing access to the ore zones) are being driven from both the north and the south to effect a holing in the centre of the high-grade zone.

The connection drifts are expected to be joined in November. This will increase underground ventilation, allowing additional mining fleets to begin working in the high-grade ore zones.

Development of the eastern perimeter drives also is well advanced and a second set of connection drifts are being planned. Mining of medium-grade ore in the room-and-pillar block is progressing well.





Image 7: Kakula's northern access drive #1, showing a high concentration of gray-coloured chalcocite ore. Chalcocite, which is almost 80% copper by weight, largely accounts for the mine's average feed grade of 6.6% copper over the first five years of operations, and 5.2% copper on average over a 21-year life.

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Figure 1: The eastern portion of the Kakula Mine - representing less than half of the overall 13.3-kilometre-long Kakula Deposit - overlain on southern Manhattan Island to provide a sense of the scale of the underground operations.



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Figure 2: Underground development completed to the end of September (in black) and scheduled mine development over the three months ending December 31, 2020. Majority of the development during this period will be in the initial drift-and-fill mining area within Kakula's high-grade zone (+8% copper).



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Construction of the initial 3.8-Mtpa concentrator plant and other surface infrastructure rapidly progressing; orders for long-lead-time items now being placed for the second 3.8-Mtpa concentrator plant

Construction of Kakula's initial 3.8-Mtpa concentrator plant is progressing well. Civil works are now nearing completion, with approximately 24,000 cubic metres (of a total of 31,000 cubic metres) of concrete poured to date. Concrete bases for the bulk of the plant areas have been fully or partially handed over to the mechanical contractor, and mechanical erection and installation is underway in almost all plant areas.

Structural steel fabrication is complete, with the bulk of the structural steel already delivered to site. Fabrication of platework is complete, with a number of items already on site and installed. Piping is progressing according to schedule with around 15 kilometres (of a total of 81 kilometres) of piping already delivered.

Over 1,000 tonnes of steel now has been installed. All floor and sidewall plates for the concentrate thickener and the tailings thickener are in position, and welding is complete. Steel erection on the mill building is progressing well. Prefabrication and installation of the plant front-end conveyor gantries is well advanced. Steel erection of the concentrate storage shed and the reagent store house is underway.

Both ball mills have arrived on site and the shells, trunnions and motors have been lifted into position.

All long-lead items for the initial 3.8-Mtpa concentrator plant have been delivered to site with the exception of the transformers, which are currently en route and expected around the third week of October. The transformers are the heaviest single piece of project equipment, weighing 85 tonnes each.

Beijing-based CITIC Construction is building Kakula's first phase, backfill paste plant. The backfill plant will be used to mix tailings from the processing plant with cement to produce paste backfill. The backfill will be pumped back into the mine and used to help support mined-out areas. Approximately one half of the mine's tailings will be sent back underground, significantly reducing the surface tailings storage. Construction of the backfill plant civil works is well advanced and erection of the two 2,000-tonne cement storage silos has started.

Construction of the tailings dam has commenced and is progressing well, with the aim to complete most of the earthworks before the rainy season starts in November.





Image 8: Cranes installing the shells and trunnions for the second of two identical ball mills that will be used to grind the copper ore at Kakula's initial 3.8-Mtpa processing plant.

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Image 9: A 3D illustration of the finished ball mills (shown in green) is above, with the next two ball mills for the recently-initiated second processing plant shown in magenta.

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Image 10: Kakula's initial 3.8-Mtpa processing plant under construction, showing the first four flotation cells (in green) and the two ball mills (yellow).



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Image 11: A 3D illustration of the finished plant is above, with the recently-initiated second 3.8-Mtpa processing plant shown in magenta.

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Image 12: Kakula's high-pressure-grinding-rolls (HPGR) stockpile under construction.



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Image 13: A 3D illustration of the finished HPGR stockpile is above, with the recently-initiated second HPGR stockpile shown in magenta.

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Image 14: Kakula's processing plant tailings thickener (larger one) and concentrate thickener (smaller one) under construction.



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Image 15: A 3D illustration of the finished thickeners is above, with the concentrate bagging plant shown in green and recently-initiated second phase shown in magenta.

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Click here to watch a short time-lapse video of crews installing the "bridge" on the tailings thickener: https://vimeo.com/463611677

Discussions underway for the marketing of Kakula's copper concentrates

Kamoa-Kakula is in detailed discussions with a number of parties with respect to the marketing and smelting of its copper concentrates. Kakula is expected to produce an extremely high grade and clean copper concentrate that will be highly coveted by copper smelters around the world. Metallurgical test work indicates that the Kakula concentrates contain extremely low arsenic levels by world standards - approximately 0.01%.

The Kamoa-Kakula Copper Project is a joint venture between Ivanhoe Mines (39.6%), Zijin Mining Group (39.6%), Crystal River Global Limited (0.8%) and the DRC government (20%).

Clean, sustainable hydroelectric power for Kamoa-Kakula

Construction activities at the Mwadingusha hydroelectric power plant, where all six turbines are being replaced, is progressing well; as is the associated 220-kilovolt (kV) infrastructure to supply Kamoa-Kakula with clean hydropower. The mine is scheduled to be energized with permanent 220kV hydro-generated power in early 2021, well in time for first copper production.

The temporary construction power supply for the Kakula Mine was recently upgraded, including the commissioning of six 2-megawatt (MW) generators to provide back-up power, and the installation of an 18 MW/120-kilovolt (kV) mobile substation to increase the capacity of grid power available at the mine. This will provide sufficient power until the main 220kV power supply is energized. An additional six new 2-MW generators have arrived at the port of Durban from China, and are en route to site. The twelve generators will supply the full back-up power requirements for the mine.

Construction of the 220kV supply infrastructure is in progress, including a new 220kV distribution sub-station for SNEL, the power utility; a new 35-kilometre, 220kV power line; and a consumer substation at Kakula with two 80 MW/220kV transformers.





Image 16: Construction activities at the Mwadingusha hydroelectric power plant are nearing completion and the plant will soon be generating 72 MW of clean, sustainable hydroelectricity for the national grid.

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Kamoa-Kakula's COVID-19 readiness initiatives focused on risk mitigation

In accordance with health guidelines from the DRC government, and in line with the country's lifting of restrictions, Kamoa-Kakula's Congolese workforce have gone back to normal work rotations. Rigorous testing, physical distancing, wearing face masks, frequent hand washing and contact-tracing measures are still in place to protect the safety and health of the workforce and community members. All expatriate employees are still required to quarantine for two weeks upon arrival at Kamoa-Kakula.

The project has established a COVID-19 isolation facility at the Kamoa camp. Potential symptomatic patients are moved to this facility, where they will be isolated, tested and treated. Once patients have recovered and are deemed no longer infectious, they can return to work only after an additional quarantine period determined by the project's medical staff.

As the pandemic evolves, the medical team at Kamoa-Kakula is reviewing and updating its risk mitigation protocols. The project's preventative measures are at the highest international standards and, if there was a case internally, the risk of spreading or cross-contamination is very low.





Image 17: Kakula's backfill plant under construction in the foreground, with the initial 3.8 Mtpa processing plant in the background. Approximately one half of the mine's tailings will be mixed with cement in the backfill plant, then pumped back underground, significantly reducing the surface tailings storage.

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Image 18: Ongoing installation of Kakula's cone crushers and surface conveyor systems that will transport the ore from the run-of-mine stockpile to the HPGR stockpile.



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Qualified Persons

Disclosures of a scientific or technical nature regarding development scenarios at the Kamoa-Kakula Project in this news release have been reviewed and approved by Steve Amos, who is considered, by virtue of his education, experience and professional association, a Qualified Person under the terms of NI 43-101. Mr. Amos is not considered independent under NI 43-101 as he is the Head of the Kamoa Project. Mr. Amos has verified the technical data disclosed in this news release.

Other disclosures of a scientific or technical nature in this news release have been reviewed and approved by Stephen Torr, who is considered, by virtue of his education, experience and professional association, a Qualified Person under the terms of NI 43-101. Mr. Torr is not considered independent under NI 43-101 as he is the Vice President, Project Geology and Evaluation of Ivanhoe Mines. Mr. Torr has verified the other technical data disclosed in this news release.

The stockpile grade estimates contained in this release are based upon bulk ore sampling from underground headings. Sampling is done on each heading every second blast and three 5-kilogram samples are taken. The samples are pulverized at the project's onsite laboratory and analyzed used using a portable XRF (pXRF) instrument. Kamoa Copper has routinely analyzed its exploration drill core for copper using pXRF, in addition to analysis at a commercial laboratory using four acid digest and ICP-OES. This data has demonstrated that pXRF results can be relied upon for grade control and run-of-mine sampling.

Ivanhoe has prepared an independent, NI 43-101-compliant technical report for the Kamoa-Kakula Project, which is available on the company's website and under the company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com:

The Kamoa-Kakula 2020 Resource Update dated March 25, 2020, prepared by OreWin Pty Ltd., Wood plc, DRA Global, SRK Consulting (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd and Stantec Consulting International LLC.

The technical report includes relevant information regarding the assumptions, parameters and methods of the mineral resource estimates on the Kamoa-Kakula Project cited in this news release, as well as information regarding data verification, exploration procedures and other matters relevant to the scientific and technical disclosure contained in this news release.

As announced in Ivanhoe Mines' September 8, 2020, news release, an updated independent, NI 43-101-compliant technical report for the Kamoa-Kakula Project is being prepared and will be issued later this month.

Information contacts

Investors: Bill Trenaman +1.604.331.9834 / Media: Matthew Keevil +1.604.558.1034

Forward-looking statements

Certain statements in this release constitute "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such statements and information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the company, its projects, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information. Such statements can be identified by the use of words such as "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "expect", "believe", "plan", "anticipate", "estimate", "scheduled", "forecast", "predict" and other similar terminology, or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. These statements reflect the company's current expectations regarding future events, performance and results and speak only as of the date of this release.

Such statements include without limitation, the timing and results of: (i) statements regarding the northern and southern access drives at Kakula are expected to be joined in November 2020; (ii) statements regarding as Kakula's underground development progresses over the next few months, the majority of the working areas are expected to transition into the higher-grade ore zones near the centre of the deposit that have copper grades approximately 5% to 8%; (iii) statements regarding initial production at the Kakula Mine is scheduled for Q3 2021; (iv) statements regarding Kakula is projected to be the world's highest-grade major copper mine with an initial mining rate of 3.8 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) at an estimated average feed grade of 6.6% copper over the first five years of operation and 5.2% copper over the 21-year mine life; (v) statements regarding the Kakula Mine will have one of the most favourable environmental footprints of any tier-one copper mine; (vi) statements regarding the Kakula Mine will be powered by clean, renewable hydroelectricity and be among the world's lowest greenhouse gas emitters per unit of copper produced; (vii) statements regarding Kakula will have a relatively tiny surface footprint as approximately one half of the mine's tailings will be pumped back into underground workings; (viii) statements regarding that once drift-and-fill stoping operations begin at Kakula, mining will produce a significantly higher proportion of high-grade stoping ore than lower-grade development ore; (ix) statements regarding access drives at Kakula are expected to be joined in November 2020; (x) statements regarding in roughly one year, the Kakula Mine will be producing extremely high-grade concentrate containing over 55% copper with essentially zero arsenic (xi) statements regarding the Kakula mine is scheduled to be energized with permanent 220kV hydro-generated power in early 2021; and (xii) statements regarding the timing when the Kakula concentrator processing capacity doubles to 7.6 Mtpa - currently planned to be commissioned in Q2 2022.

As well, all of the results of the pre-feasibility study for the Kakula copper mine and the updated and expanded Kamoa-Kakula Project preliminary economic assessment constitute forward-looking statements or information, and include future estimates of internal rates of return, net present value, future production, estimates of cash cost, proposed mining plans and methods, mine life estimates, cash flow forecasts, metal recoveries, estimates of capital and operating costs and the size and timing of phased development of the projects. Furthermore, with respect to this specific forward-looking information concerning the development of the Kamoa-Kakula Project, the company has based its assumptions and analysis on certain factors that are inherently uncertain. Uncertainties include: (i) the adequacy of infrastructure; (ii) geological characteristics; (iii) metallurgical characteristics of the mineralization; (iv) the ability to develop adequate processing capacity; (v) the price of copper; (vi) the availability of equipment and facilities necessary to complete development; (vii) the cost of consumables and mining and processing equipment; (viii) unforeseen technological and engineering problems; (ix) accidents or acts of sabotage or terrorism; (x) currency fluctuations; (xi) changes in regulations; (xii) the compliance by joint venture partners with terms of agreements; (xiii) the availability and productivity of skilled labour; (xiv) the regulation of the mining industry by various governmental agencies; (xv) the ability to raise sufficient capital to develop such projects; (xiv) changes in project scope or design; and (xv) political factors.

Forward-looking statements and information involve significant risks and uncertainties, should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results and will not necessarily be accurate indicators of whether or not such results will be achieved. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements or information, including, but not limited to, the factors discussed below and under "Risk Factors", and elsewhere in this release, as well as unexpected changes in laws, rules or regulations, or their enforcement by applicable authorities; the failure of parties to contracts with the company to perform as agreed; social or labour unrest; changes in commodity prices; and the failure of exploration programs or studies to deliver anticipated results or results that would justify and support continued exploration, studies, development or operations.

Although the forward-looking statements contained in this release are based upon what management of the company believes are reasonable assumptions, the company cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this release and are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. Subject to applicable securities laws, the company does not assume any obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this release.

The company's actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of the factors set forth below in the "Risk Factors" section in the company's Q2 2020 MD&A and its current annual information form.

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Former NSW Liberal MP Daryl Maguire could have earned almost $1 million by assisting in the sale of a block of land near Western Sydney airport on behalf of racing heir Louise Raedler Waterhouse.

A corruption inquiry on Thursday heard allegations that Mr Maguire, while a member of Parliament, agreed to "grease the wheels" for Ms Waterhouse and her property agent by agreeing to speak to authorities to iron out road and zoning issues in 2017.

Then-MP Daryl Maguire, Louise Raedler Waterhouse and Ho Yuen Li Credit:ICAC

Chinese investment broker and property agent William Luong told the Independent Commission Against Corruption he gave Ms Waterhouse a proposed consultancy agreement for the sale of the land with a service fee on a "sliding scale".

The land lay within a stone's throw of the new airport and was expected to fetch between $330 and $360 million.
Assistant Professor Kyu Young Han will use the funding to develop a new optical technology that could aid in the understanding of human protein linked to diseases.

Kyu Young Han, an assistant professor in the University of Central Florida's College of Optics and Photonics, is the first faculty member to be awarded the National Institutes of Health's Maximizing Investigators' Research Award for early stage investigators.

The five-year $1.7 million grant is intended to provide stable funding so recipients can pursue ambitious challenges, according to the National Institute of General Medical Sciences, which oversees the program.

Han, who has a doctorate in chemistry, will use the grant to develop a novel bioengineering tool and imaging system to enable researchers to image multiple proteins in a single cell under a super-resolution microscope. The current technique is extremely slow, taking weeks to months to image fewer than 20 target proteins. Han expects to be able to accomplish this with nanoscale resolution in 24 hours.

If successful, this new tool could be invaluable to researchers trying to understand key biomedical problems from diabetes to cancer because proteins are linked to so many important processes in the body. Specialized proteins play a variety of roles including biochemical reactions, the body's immune system, scaffolding structures and regulation of metabolisms.

"That's why I study optics," Han says. "My background, how I got into this, is biophysics and biochemistry. I recognize the potential. It makes sense because we need to know how proteins interact with each other and the surrounding systems. We need to be able to observe those to understand all the connections."

Han's work aligns to the goal of the award, which is part of NIH's Maximizing Investigator Research Awards program.

"This is my dream job," he says. "I am excited to get started."

Han said he knew of college's reputation for optics and photonics, which is why in 2016 he accepted a position at UCF. He has received several grants - including a National Science Foundation award - published several journal papers and began training students in this interdisciplinary area of research. Two of his graduate students, Jinhan Ren and Vahid Ebrahimi, will work on the NIH project.

Interdisciplinary ties are critical, he says because of the complexity of the challenge. That's why for this NIH project he is collaborating with a neuroscientist at Rutgers University and a cell biologist at the University of Illinois.

Before joining UCF, Han worked at the Max Planck Institute in Germany where he studied super-resolution fluorescence imaging. His postdoctoral research, at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, focused on designing new optical tools for biological applications, such as studying DNA-protein interactions, RNA imaging in live-cells, and revealing nuclear structure in mammalian cells. He has one patent, which was commercialized by Leica Microsystems.

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California governor Gavin Newsom signed the first reparations bill into law - Rich Pedroncelli /AP

California has begun a process to pay reparations for slavery after it became the first US state to pass a law to study and develop compensation proposals for the descendants of slaves and those affected by it.

The landmark bill, signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom on Wednesday, will create a task force to develop recommendations for how the state could make payouts and determine who would be eligible.

In addition, the nine-member body can recommend how the state might offer a formal apology "for the perpetration of gross human rights violations and crimes against humanity on African slaves and their descendants". The task force can also recommend the elimination of laws that disproportionately impact black people.

Singing the legislation into law, Mr Newsom acknowledged that people of colour continue to face discrimination and disadvantages in the state, but said that the bipartisan support for the new law represented a paradigm that we hope will be resonant all across the United States.

The task force will carry out a comprehensive study on the lingering effects of slavery on all parts of society, such as racial disparities in prison populations, unemployment, wealth, housing, health care and education.

CA just became the first state in the nation to mandate the study and development of proposals for reparations.



Our past is one of slavery, racism, and injustice. Our systems were built to oppress people of color.



Its past time we acknowledge that. https://t.co/sY8UWffqzt  Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) September 30, 2020

The law does not prescribe a form of reparations or who should be eligible, which is something the task force must study and recommend, and any proposals for reparations payments would still require further legislation to proceed.

Story continues

California has come to terms with many of its issues, but it has yet to come to terms with its role in slavery, said Shirley Weber, the Democratic assemblywoman who wrote the bill. Were talking about really addressing the issues of justice and fairness in this country that we have to address.

Although California entered the Union as a free state in 1850, slavery continued in the state. Slavery was abolished nationwide by the 13th Amendment to the US Constitution in 1865.

The thorny issue of slavery reparations has long been debated in the US, but has received little support from most of the population.

However the issue has gained more traction in the upper echelons of political power in recent years, with the US House of Representatives holding a hearing on the idea last year. Kamala Harris, the Democratic vice presidential nominee, and other prominent Democratic senators have also publicly supported some form of reparations.

But despite the increase in mainstream support, President Donald Trump and Mitch McConnell, the majority leader of the Republican-controlled Senate, have emphatically rejected the idea.
Egypt has taken steady steps towards the achievement of equality and the empowerment of women in recent years, President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi told the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Thursday.

His remarks came during a speech delivered by video to the body on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women and the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.

The event had the theme of accelerating the realisation of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls."

El-Sisi emphasised that women represent half of society and must be taken care of to ensure the renaissance, reform and progress of society as a whole and to achieve sustainable development.

"Last year, Egypt celebrated a hundred years of Egyptian womens participation in public life, and it was one of the first countries in the world to set a national strategy for the protection and empowerment of women politically, economically and socially," the president said.

The legislative framework related to women has also been developed by adopting a number of new laws and amending existing legislation, El-Sisi said, and as a result, Egyptian women "will be guaranteed full equality and equal opportunities" and their active participation in the community movement "will be ensured without any discrimination."

Such efforts proved successful, he said, adding that, as a result, womens representation in the cabinet and the Egyptian parliament has increased to 25 percent, in parallel with their occupancy of senior positions in the judiciary and other important positions, including as a provincial governor and national security adviser.

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Ireland's 'Green List' of countries that people can travel to without restricting their movements on return will remain unchanged next week.

The next 'Green List', which is updated on Thursdays to take effect the following Monday, will feature the same four countries as last week.

The list uses a cut-off of 25 cases of Covid-19 per 100,000 people, but Cyprus (23.6), Latvia (17.6), Liechtenstein (23.5) and Finland (22.5) are all trending upwards, placing them on course to exceed that number.

Last week, rising incidences in Germany, Iceland, Lithuania and Poland saw those countries removed from the list.

While caseloads may also stabilise or decrease, numbers throughout Europe have been rising, making it possible that next week's update could see zero countries listed.

Ireland's 'Green list' updates are an interim measure until a new European 'traffic light' system for travel is approved later this month.

The common European approach will see countries colour-coded as red, orange or green based on assessments of their 14-day incidence of Covid-19 by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).

Under the proposed system, 'green' countries would have 25 cases or less per 100,000 people, 'orange' countries would have between 25 and 50 per 100,000, and 'red' countries would have more than 50.

The percentage rate of positive cases will also be a factor.

Ireland's Green List updates have been heavily criticised by airlines, travel agents and the Irish Tourist Industry Confederation (ITIC) as further restricting travel rather than moving towards any alignment with the EC's system - by including 'orange' countries such as Germany (31.2), Italy (38.8) or Greece (41.3), for example.

"It's easier to get out of North Korea than Ireland," Ryanair's CEO Michael O'Leary has said.

The airline today notified Transport Minister Eamon Ryan that it would close its Cork and Shannon bases for the winter if the Government failed to fully adopt the system from October 13.

However, Tanaiste Leo Varadkar has indicated that different countries may opt into the 'traffic light' system in different ways.

Green will be green, theres no doubt about that, but amber and red may be treated differently by different countries, whether its testing or restricted movements, he has said.

An Taoiseach, Micheal Martin, has also said restrictions on travellers are likely to last well into 2021.

Today's update comes as ITIC issued an open letter calling for leadership from the Taoiseach on international travel restrictions, and an assurance that Ireland would sign up to the 'traffic light' system.

In the letter, co-signed by Aer Lingus, daa, Shannon Airport, Irish Ferries and Stena Line, among others, ITIC said there was an effective "closed sign" hanging over Ireland, and that the loss of overseas visitors is costing 27 million per day, with up to 300,000 jobs in danger.

Budget 2021, due on October 13, is the "last chance to save save tourism and hospitality industry", it said.

According to Government data, around 2pc of Ireland's cases are related to "travel abroad", a figure that has remained stable since June.

Travellers from Ireland to 'Green List' countries have also been warned to be mindful of any restrictions at their destination.

Ireland's 14-day average is currently 88.8 cases of Covid-19 per 100,000 of the population - well above the 'red' threshold.

Those figures mean travellers from Ireland to Cyprus must show negative test results on arrival, for instance, while those travelling to Latvia are required to self-isolate for 10 days.

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The prime minister has revealed his favourite animal, and the curious reason behind it.

Scott Morrison made the confession after a weekend visit to the Adelaide Zoo.

'I am a big fan of koalas, I've got to say, I love koalas,' he told Adelaide radio 5AA on Thursday.

The prime minister has revealed his favourite animal, and the curious reason behind it. Scott Morrison's daughter Lily is pictured holding a quokka at Adelaide Zoo

'And I like it when they get the 'irrits' a bit, too. I find that quite funny.'

One of Mr Morrison's daughters joined him for the jaunt through the wildlife park.

'My daughter loves quokkas and she got to cuddle a quokka,' he said.

'She is still over the moon.'

The prime minister did not try his luck wrapping his arms around a cranky koala.

His government has launched a review into the endangered status of the native animal after koala populations were decimated by the Black Summer bushfires.

Scott Morrison (left) loves koalas, but he also seemed quite keen on this wombat

But Mr Morrison's comments could raise eyebrows amongst his coalition colleagues in NSW.

The state's Liberal and National parties are at war over laws designed to protect koala habitats.

NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro recently threatened to blow up the coalition over the legislation before staging a humiliating backdown and falling into line.
Princess Martha Louise's daughter Leah has revealed she felt 'so broken inside' after her father Ari Behn's suicide as she marked his birthday yesterday.

Leah Behn, 15, shared an emotional Instagram post on what would have been her father's 48th birthday this week.

Author Mr Behn, who was married to Martha Louise for 15 years and shared three children with the royal, was found dead after taking his own life on Christmas Day last year.

In the heartbreaking post, the teenager shared a picture alongside her father and another of his gravestone, writing: 'Going through something like this made me feel so many emotions...I felt so broken inside and walked around feeling like it was all a dream and this wasnt real or it didnt happen. But it did.'

Princess Martha Louise's daughter Leah, 15, has revealed she felt 'so broken inside' after her father Ari Behn's suicide as she marked his birthday yesterday

Sharing the post with her 19,000 followers online, the 15-year-old wrote: 'Happy birthday Dad.

'9 months ago, my dad passed away from suicide. This has been and will always be the toughest tragedy me and my family have had to go through.

'I really dont know what to say. I miss him so much and I wish that things were different.'

She continued: 'I have never really ever been open about this on social media, because I was scared and sharing my feelings seemed terrifying.'

In a heartbreaking Instagram post, the teenager shared a picture of her father's gravestone and said she wondered whether she 'deserved' to be happy

Leah explained she has had 'so many thoughts that she will never ever be able to explain'. adding: 'I will never forget my dad. He was an amazing human with so many good intentions and always wanted everyone to have a good time. I loved him so much.'

She went on to say that going through the loss of her father had 'changed' her, saying: 'It has given me a whole different perspective in life, and if you love someone you tell them. You never know when you will loose them.

'Sometimes when Im happy and I catch myself having fun, I stop and think. Do I deserve this? Am I allowed to feel like this?

Leah, whose mother Princess Martha Louise separated from Ari in 2017, said she had been left 'broken inside' by his death (pictured, Leah with her mother)

'And of course I am. Everyone deserves to be happy. But you never know what someone is going through and everyone fights there own battles. Remember to always be nice.

'This didnt make me stronger or brave, it made me realize how strong I already was. I miss you so much dad. Love you and Happy Birthday!'

Her mother Princess Martha Louise was quick to comment on the post, writing: ' Your dad is so proud of how strong you are and how heartfelt your words are. He loves you so much.

The teenager shared the deeply personal note with her Instagram followers as she urged them to 'always be nice' to one another

'I am so proud of you for sharing this, darling. Love you with all my heart.'

Meanwhile her boyfriend Shaman Durek also commented on the post, sharing a small heart emoji beneath Princess Martha's comment.

Ari separated from the fourth in line to the Norwegian throne in 2017, who he had three daughters with called Maud, 17, Leah, and Emma, 12.
Paul Clark delivered nightly news about the deadly Covid-19 pandemic while masking the heartache that his father was about to become one of its first Northern Ireland victims.

The veteran UTV anchorman spent weeks shuffling between the television studio and the hospice, where his cancer-stricken dads life was ebbing away.

And with 92-year-old Thompson Clark also contracting coronavirus in the final throes of his illness, that made him officially the 11th local casualty of the virus.

His immune system was really shot, and there was no way he could resist anything, said the popular television presenter.

He had been in the hospice for five weeks and we were not expecting him to come home.

We knew his last journey out of there would be in a coffin  and so it turned out.

Read More

At the time Paul, along with the rest of society, was attempting to get to grips with the effects of an incurable respiratory disease virtually no one had heard of at the start of the year, but has now claimed over a million lives worldwide, 579 of them here.

As a journalist, its very important to put out as much information as you can, but at the same time my father was dying, he said.

Not everybody who got Covid-19 died, but there were many who did and we were privileged to tell their stories.

I hope that in some way it helped me to empathise with them, that I wasnt entirely untouched either.

Thompson, a father-of-four who had been fighting both leukaemia and skin cancer before contracting the coronavirus in his latter days, passed away on March 25.

The nurses in his room were able to hold a phone up to him, and the last thing I remember him doing was blowing a kiss to myself and my mum

Due to strict quarantine rules he was unable to have his wife Ida (89) and children  Paul (66) Susan (64), Maureen (63) and Philip (54)  at his Northern Ireland Hospice bedside.

Expand Close Missed: Paul Clarks father Thompson Clark / Facebook

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The doctors had advised us that the end was coming, and on the last day when we went up to say goodbye to dad we physically could not get into his room because everything had locked down, recalled Paul.

We had to say goodbye to him from outside the window looking in. He was conscious.

The nurses in his room were able to hold a phone up to him, and the last thing I remember him doing was blowing a kiss to myself and my mum.

Paul, Maureen and brother-in-law Wesley accompanied his mother to the hospice in Belfast that day.

Philip was locked down in disease-ridden Italy, while it was a similar story with Susan, who works in England.

Philip put on a suit and watched the funeral from his apartment in Bassano Del Grappa in Veneto, revealed the presenter.

He put on his suit for the occasion. The undertakers fed the ceremony directly onto his iPad.

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As a devout Catholic, Pauls father, who would have been 93 last Saturday, did not fear dying.

But because of lockdown restrictions the family was unable to observe the traditions of the religion he held so dear.

Rather than being in a chapel overnight, his body had to repose in a funeral parlour in Dunmurry, where Paul grew up.

It was taken from the undertakers to the church where we had a committal  no full Mass  and then we went to Roselawn, he said.

They werent allowing people into the chapel but we were able to drive up to the door, where the priest did a final committal.

The coffin was then put onto something akin to a low loader; the men were so apologetic because they realised that families couldnt say a proper farewell.

It wasnt ideal, but the staff at Roselawn handled it very sensitively, as did everyone at the hospice.

As president and patron of the Northern Ireland Hospice, Paul, who was awarded an MBE for voluntary service to the community in 2013, is no stranger to the place. But he admitted it was really strange visiting not as the patron, but actually as a member of the family, as a son whose father was passing on.

Im 66 now. All of my life he had been a constant, somebody to whom I could go and seek advice, lean on, and ask for help

I saw it then, at a very personal level, the difference the hospice does make, he said, taking a moment to reflect on the magnitude of his loss.

The longer you have your father, or mother, or both, the harder it is to let go, he said.

Im 66 now. All of my life he had been a constant, somebody to whom I could go and seek advice, lean on, and ask for help.

A few days after the funeral the father-of-two, who lives in Belfast, returned to the studio at City Quays where he faced the combination of dealing with that, dealing with my job and dealing with the story that was opening up in front of us.

As a professional you have to get on with the job and its only some time later that things settle in, he added.

My dad was a man of very deep faith; he was well prepared for death and he made it easy for us. And I thank him for that.

But thats really the first time I saw death writ large, and the first time Ive ever lost somebody so close.

Paul said he found that the business he has been in for the past 46 years proved to be a small distraction from his grief.

I think at that stage I was numb, genuinely, he said.

I had been working about a day-and-a-half before dad died.

The last thing I remember was interviewing Michelle ONeill and Arlene Foster in the studio for View From Stormont, and it was a united front.

They mustve known what was coming down the tracks. It was the last time for a long time we managed to get people into the studio.

He added: In terms of dealing with dads death, the person I felt most sorry for was my dear mother, who will be 90 in January.

But shes still a fiercely independent lady. She still drives and she has all her faculties, physically and mentally.

The effects of Covid-19 on his life did not end with his fathers funeral.

The devoted family man had to endure a temporary separation from his retired bio-chemist wife of 35 years.

Carol is having to shield medically; she has a very rare lung condition and is on oxygen 24/7, he explained.

Shortly before dad died, I had to move out of the family home and live with my mum in Lisburn because of the risk of infection.

Carol felt so vulnerable, and because she was in the at-risk category she felt that since I was still working that it would be prudent for me not to be in the house.

I think it was good comfort for mum at the time, but because she was also perceived as being in the at-risk category we had to keep our distance from each other.

Thats a hard thing to do when its your mum... my abiding memory of that time is mum calling me by my dads name and then apologising. But I told her that I regarded that as a great compliment!

My fathers Christian name is also my middle name.

Paul added: Because I was physically outside the house I could do all the shopping. Indeed, I think my most important job during the early stages of the pandemic was making sure that there was bread on the table.

He revealed that he also honed a new skill.

I became a personal shopper in a way Id never imagined, he explained.

Shopping and me havent always mixed but Im getting used to it at this late stage of my life.

He also revealed the effects the Covid restrictions have had on the couples youngest son David (29), who has Downs and who had been working with the Belfast Trust and the Orchardville Society, which provides sheltered employment for people with a learning disability.

David is a creature of habit and couldnt manage to reason why he couldnt go to work, but I was able to explain to him, he said.

He keeps hoping that Robin Swann is going to say that the crisis is over. Thats his world view.

He hangs on every word the Health Minister says. And he keeps asking me to tell Robin to hurry up!

Paul said their older son Peter (31) was a real rock; he assumed the role of daddy during those early difficult days.

And although Carol (69) is doing well healthwise, the Clark family know they have to remain ultra careful.

Im downstairs with the boys and shes upstairs, so we have to keep some distance for Carols own safety, he explained.

Were all having to behave as if our lives depend on it. And, guess what? They do

And until we have a vaccine, or until we move to safer times, thats the way its going to be.

I dont have an issue with that because Im not the only one. There are many others in a worse situation than me.

Were all having to behave as if our lives depend on it. And, guess what? They do.

Paul, along with several national and regional ITV colleagues, has now put his thoughts on paper for a new book, Reporting Coronavirus.

It is clear that he now believes Covid will be the defining element of his decades-long journalistic career. Perhaps, I suggest, because he was reporting it and living it at the same time.

I suspect there must be great truth in that because we dont always remain detached from the stories we cover, he replied.

Were all human, all part of the same community.

I felt last year that Brexit would be the defining story of my career.

I remember thinking at the time: How do you top that? And then suddenly this happens.

Reporting Coronavirus, published by ITV Ventures, is out now
YEHEY! Brands and bargains!

Camille Aldeguer and Raki Urbina, chairperson and co-chairperson of the Great Cebu Sale (GCS), are excitedly urging consumers to gobble up Cebus first-ever, industry-wide virtual sale.

As of the first week that started last Sept. 15, already 3,000 visitors have been recorded on the GCS official website.

Riding on the growing online business traffic are visitors from the United States, Singapore, Qatar and Japan, with a huge chunk from our islands.

Attracting relevant attention are these webinars offered by GCS to stimulate added sales: On Oct. 5 and 6, Part Two of Rethinking our Business and Repurposing our Facilities for Survival and Sustenance. On Oct. 12 and 13, Redefining and Optimizing the Essential Components of retail in these most Challenging Times.

GCS will also host on Oct. 19 and 20, Leading by Emotional Intelligence with Stressed-out Workforce and Anxious Guests and Customers.

Webinars will be conducted by that rockstar trainer and resource speaker, Francis de la Cruz.

According to Chester Lim, Philippine Retailers Association-Cebu chapter president, these high-impact webinars might even be extended to the holiday season.

Incidentally, GCS would like to introduce its top brands and bargains participants.

Among them:

Wellness Facilities: Maayo Well Cebu, Prosel Pharma Inc. and UV Care.

Food and beverage merchants: Cafe Laguna, Dessert Factory, Nanays Best, The Lemon Co., Amarillo, Freshco Cebu brand Dried Fruits, Uy Masuy Wine Factory, Casa Verde, Bricklane Doughnuts, Bon Chon, D&B Wines and 10 Dove St.

Travel and tourism brands: Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino, Marco Polo Plaza Cebu, bai Hotel, JPark Island Resort and Waterpark, Crimson Mactan Resort and Spa, Anjo World, Seda Ayala Center Cebu, Citadines, Plantation Bay Resort and Spa, Cebu Grand Hotel, Cebu White Sands, Radisson Blu Cebu, Summit Galleria Cebu, Cebu Parklane International Hotel, Southwind Travel and Tours, Quest Hotel and Conference Center, Destination Specialists-Cebu, Golden Prince Hotel and Suites, Tambuli Seaside Resort and Spa etc.

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Hardware establishments: Living N Style, Belmont Hardware Depot, Cebu Home and Builders Centre etc. Lifestyle brands: ATE by Tatah, Islands Souvenirs, The Outlets at Pueblo Verde, Loalde etc.

Home essentials merchants: Ayala Center Cebu, SM City Cebu and Consolacion, Gaisano Grand Malls, Robinsons Galleria Cebu, Prince Hypermart, Oakridge Business Park etc.

Get online today!
This may indicate that "in such an exotic way, Moscow seeks to put a squeeze on Kyiv to make them fulfill obligations that [Leonid] Kravchuk undertook on amending the [local] election resolution."

Statements by Russia's envoy to the Trilateral Contact Group on Donbas settlement Boris Gryzlov on the intention to release unauthorized recordings of talks testify to the deadlock in negotiations and mounting pressure on Ukraine.

The Russian side to the TCG is not even hiding the fact they have been conducting unauthorized audio and video recording of peace talks, Gerashchenko wrote on Facebook.

MP says the Ukrainian delegates to the TCG, as well as those from the OSCE, were rightfully indignant about the move and even interrupted the latest meeting on Wednesday.

"We never had any doubts that the security services of the Russian Federation and Belarus, which is the same thing, are recording [the talks]," she said, adding that things have gone really bad if Gryzlov himself threatens to release the illegally recorded material.

"It testifies not only to the deadlock and possible aggravation, but also the fact that now, the Russian Federation allows itself such a tone in negotiations," she said.

Also, Gerashchenko adds, this may indicate that "in such an exotic way, Moscow seeks to put a squeeze on Kyiv to make them fulfill the obligations that [Head of Ukraine's delegation to the TCG Leonid] Kravchuk undertook on amending the [local] election resolution."

"Because you mustn't promise what you won't fulfill and what you have no influence on, Mr. Kravchuk," she said.

Gerashchenko recalled that the Verkhovna Rada "will not work in session mode until the elections are held, so no one will adopt anything."

Read alsoZelensky sacks Fokin from TCG delegation amid Donbas statements row"I give the Minsk Group this argument as an idea for the next round of negotiations  blame everything on a pandemic and don't undertake any obligations upon Ukraine as long as the shooting in Donbas continues and hostages remain in prisons," Gerashchenko said.

TCG talks: Background

Special Representative of the OSCE Chairman-in-Office Heidi Grau on Wednesday, September 30, was reportedly forced to interrupt the meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group on Donbas settlement (Ukraine, Russia, OSCE) due to the Russians conducting unauthorized audio and video recording of talks that are deemed to be confidential.

Moreover, chief of the Russian delegation Gryzlov said he intends to publish the tapes  without asking anyone's permission.

The OSCE representative suggested taking a break and holding a separate meeting to agree on a code of conduct and information policy that all participants should adhere to.

Ukraine supported the OSCE position, stressing the unacceptability of actions contradicting the agreements and international negotiation practices.
The L.A.-based Heidi Duckler Dance has planned a series of walk-up or drive-in outdoor shows as an alternative way of engaging live performance during the COVID-19 pandemic. (Heidi Duckler Dance)

Tired of just streaming shows at home? Ready to lay your eyes on a real canvas, hear the patter of dancers' feet in person, catch a concert in the company of a live audience? Here are a half-dozen SoCal shows following COVID-19 protocols for a safe, distanced, in-person experience.

The Quest"



The L.A.-based site-specific dance company Heidi Duckler Dance celebrates its 35th anniversary with a 10-day series of walk-up and drive-up performances at different locations. The Thursday performances, at 7 and 7:45 p.m., are drive-up shows at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Studio City; Friday is another drive-up, at 7:30 and 8:30 p.m., at the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook in Culver City; and Saturday shows at 6:30, 7:15 and 8 p.m. are drive-in at North Figueroa Street in Mt. Washington. Shows run daily through Oct. 10. $35-$400. heididuckler.org

Driven: A Latinx Artist Celebration



The Museum of Latin American Art in Long Beach copresents this drive-thru art experience set to a playlist curated by KCRW deejay Raul Campos. Hollywood Palladium, 6215 Sunset Blvd., L.A. Various time slots from noon to 8 p.m. Thursday through Sunday. Free; reservations required. Register at universe.com

"Classical Guitar & Strings"



Mainly Mozart has organized free concerts at the Del Mar Fairgrounds' main lot as a gift to music lovers coping with the COVID-19 pandemic. The program this weekend includes Vivaldi, Mozart and Rossini, and the players include Martin Chalifour, concertmaster of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Audience members are asked to arrive early and remain in their vehicles at all times. SUVs and high-profile vehicles park in the back. No pets. 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar. 3 and 6 p.m. Saturday. Admission is free but donations are accepted; RSVP at mainlymozart.org/classicalguitar.

Grand Central Comedy



Local comics perform live and socially distanced stand-up showcases on the rooftop of Grand Central Market, 317 S. Broadway, downtown L.A. 8 p.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays. $30-$35; advance tickets required. grandcentralmarket.com

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Drive-in Jazz



Every Thursday evening in October, the Muckenthaler Cultural Center hosts live jazz for an audience parked on the Muck's lawn. This week it's the Joshua White Trio with Rob Thorsen on bass and Tyler Kreutel on drums. $30 per car. Gates open at 6 p.m., concert starts at 7:30 p.m. 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton. themuck.org

"Granville Redmond: The Eloquent Palette"



Museums are open in Orange and San Diego counties, with caps on visitors numbers that could make for a more pleasant art-going experience. A recommendation from The Times' Pulitzer-winning art critic, Christopher Knight: the Laguna Art Museum's show on Granville Redmond, whose close friendship with Charlie Chaplin and intriguing impressionist landscapes make for good viewing through Nov. 15. 307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach. $5-$7 (17 and younger are free); advance tickets with timed entry required. (949) 494-8971, lagunaartmuseum.org

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
The two neighbors in the South Caucasus have been locked in conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh, a region of Azerbaijan that has been under the control of ethnic Armenian forces backed by Armenia since a war there ended in 1994. International efforts to settle the conflict have stalled.
San Francisco voters who want to cast their ballots in person may do so under a massive tent at the Civic Center starting Monday. Its one of 588 locations in the city where people can vote, in addition to mailing in their ballots before or on Nov. 3.

Although we cant do what weve done in the past and provide early voting in City Hall, we are going to be doing early voting right outside ... in what looks like a beautiful party tent, Mayor London Breed said Thursday, standing outside the new Voting Center at 99 Grove St., next to the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium.

The Department of Elections has been meticulously preparing for this years election, as it anticipates a record turnout and a surge in mail-in ballots due to the coronavirus pandemic. The Voting Center is just one of many options San Francisco residents have before election day.

This year, every registered voter will receive a ballot in the mail  not just those who requested them. People should start seeing them in their mailboxes next week. The deadline to register to vote is Oct. 19.

People can register to vote online or in person at the Voting Center. Those who miss the registration deadline can visit the Voting Center or a polling place to register and cast a provisional ballot, if they are eligible to vote.

There is no excuse for anyone in the city who was a registered voter, not to vote, Breed said, while wearing a face mask and standing underneath a wildfire smoke-tainted sky.

Trisha Thadani /

The outdoor Voting Center is a large event tent with rows of booths spaced apart inside. Its right outside City Hall, where  in a normal year  people usually go to cast their ballots in the basement.

The Voting Center will follow strict public health guidance, which means people must wear a mask and stand 6 feet apart from each other. All of the booths and voting materials will be sanitized.

It will be open every weekday between Monday and Nov. 2 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. It will be open on two weekends, Oct. 24 and Oct. 25 and Oct. 31 and Nov. 1, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

It will also be open on Nov. 3, election day, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

John Arntz, director of the department of elections, assured voters that as long as their ballots are cast correctly and before or on Nov. 3, they will all be counted  regardless if someone votes in person or by mail. But he encouraged people to vote early to avoid possible wait times and crowded public spaces.

But voting by mail is still the safest way to vote this year, according to the mayors office.

Now Playing: California is voting early at historic levels: More than twice as many ballots were cast as of Monday than the total ballots cast in 2016, officials say. Video: Caron Creighton

Heres how you can vote:

By mail: If you cast your ballot by mail, the Department of Elections recommends returning the ballots via the blue United States Postal Service collection boxes. Find your nearest mail box here.

Voters can also drop off their ballots at the Voting Center between Monday and Nov. 3. They can also drop off ballots at Chase Center, Bayview/Linda Brooks-Burton Library, Excelsior Library or Portsmouth Square.

In person at the Voting Center: Open at 99 Grove St., from Monday to Nov. 3. Open weekends starting Oct. 24.

At a polling place on Nov. 3: There are 588 polling places in San Francisco. Find your polling places here. You can vote in person at the polling place or drop off your mail-in ballot there.

Accessible Vote-by-Mail System: Allows voters to vote using a remote accessible vote-by-mail (AVBM) system. Learn more about it here.

Authorizing another person to pick up your ballot: Beginning Oct. 5, any registered voter may authorize a spouse, child, parent, grandparent, sibling or person residing in their household to pick up a vote-by-mail ballot from the Voting Center and deliver it to them. The authorized person must be at least 16 years old.

Trisha Thadani is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: tthadani@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @TrishaThadani
Congolese artist Emery Mwazulu Diyabanza and four others are under trial for attempting to steal a 19th-century African funeral pole from a museum, a charge they have denied saying that they were simply trying to draw attention to the artwork's origin

Paris: Is dislodging African artwork from a European museum a political statement, or a criminal act?

That's the question a French court weighed on Wednesday in an emotionally charged trial centered around a Congolese activist campaigning to take back art he says was plundered by colonizers.

It belongs to us! shouted a Black woman watching the trial, breaking down in tears and storming out after a lawyer for Paris' Quai Branly Museum insisted that its holdings  including tens of thousands of artworks from former colonies  belong to the French state.

Congo-born Emery Mwazulu Diyabanza and four other activists went on trial on attempted theft charges for removing a 19th century African funeral pole from its perch in the museum in a June protest livestreamed on Facebook.

Guards quickly stopped them; the activists argue that they never planned to steal the work but just wanted to call attention to its origins.

Lurking beneath nearly every exchange in the courtroom was the question of whether and how former empires should atone for colonial-era wrongs.

The question took on new urgency after this year's global protests against racial injustice unleashed by George Floyd's death in the US at the knee of a white policeman.

Diyabanza seized on that mood and has staged three livestreamed museum protests in recent months  in Paris, Marseille and the Netherlands.

French officials denounced the Quai Branly incident, saying it threatens ongoing negotiations with African countries launched by President Emmanuel Macron in 2018 for legal, organized restitution efforts.

If convicted of attempted group theft of a historical object, Diyabanza could face up to 10 years in prison and a 150,000 euro fine ($173,000).

However, the lawyer for the French state did not ask for prison time, demanding only modest fines. A verdict is scheduled 14 October.

Diyabanza defended what he called a political act and said it's about time that Africans, Latin Americans and other colonized communities take back ill-gotten treasures.

He accuses European museums of making millions on artworks taken from now-impoverished countries like Congo, and said the pole, which came from current-day Chad, should be among works returned to Africa.

We are the legitimate heirs of these works, he said.

But he insisted that appropriation wasn't my goal. ... The aim was to mark the symbolism of the liberation of these works."
The Department of Agriculture is including a letter signed by President Donald Trump in boxes of surplus food that are being sent out to needy American families.

The letters - both in English and Spanish - were obtained by Politico, with representatives from the organizations tasked with handing out the food complaining to the news site that the letters are being used to bolster Trump's re-election effort.

'In my 30 years of doing this work, I've never seen something this egregious,' Lisa Hamler-Fugitt, the executive director of the Ohio Association of Food Banks told Politico. 'These are federally purchased boxes.'

The Farmers to Families Food Boxes, seen behind President Donald Trump on an August 24 trip to Mills River, North Carolina, now contain letters signed by him

The president is captured holding what looks to be the controversial letter during his tour of Flavor First Growers and Packers in Mills River, North Carolina in late August

These letters are reminiscent of the Trump-signed $1,200 stimulus checks that started going out to American families in April.

That move was also controversial because the stimulus, like the food boxes, was taxpayer-funded.

More recently, The New York Times reported that the president only paid $750 in federal income taxes in 2017, his first year in office.

The food boxes are part of the USDA's $4 billion Farmers to Families Food Box Program, which first daughter and White House aide Ivanka Trump has actively promoted.

Trump wrote in the letters, 'safeguarding the health and well-being of our citizens is one of my highest priorities.'

'As part of our response to coronavirus, I prioritized sending nutritious food from our farmers to families in need throughout America,' the letter ssaid.

The president then boasted that 50 million Farmers to Families Food Boxes have been sent out.

'And we will continue to serve those most in need during this challenging time,' Trump wrote.

The USDA told Politico in a statement, 'Politics has played zero role in the Farmers to Families food box program.'

'It is purely about helping farmers and distributors get food to Americans in need during this unprecedented time,' the Agriculture Department said.

While Ivanka Trump has been the face of the program, the president accompanied her on a trip to Flavor First Growers and Packers in August during the week of the Republican National Convention.

Trump had just won his party's nomination in Charlotte, North Carolina before making an afternoon stop in Mills River, a small town near Hendersonville and Asheville.

The president didn't keep politics off the table then.

Before he started talking about the food boxes, Trump laid into his Democratic rival Joe Biden for not traveling to Milwaukee for the Democratic National Convention.

'And, you know, Joe Biden was supposed to be in Wisconsin, but he never showed up,' Trump said. 'I showed up. ... I was there. It was a great, exciting moment actually,' he said of winning the nomination earlier that day in Charlotte.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that he has tested negative for the COVID-19 virus since a staffer became ill this week and forced the governor and others into quarantine.

Pritzker said his office staff was tested Monday afternoon and got a clean bill of health. Still, it will not be business as usual for the next two weeks.

"There are a few other close contacts of this staffer and each of us will be in quarantine until Oct. 12," Pritzker said during a virtual news conference Wednesday. "That's the 14-day period that's recommended by public health officials as a precautionary measure."

Pritzker announced Tuesday that a member of his staff began experiencing symptoms of the virus and was tested Monday. The test came back positive.

The staffer, who was not identified, accompanied Pritzker to events in Chicago last Wednesday, Marion on Thursday and Marseilles on Sunday. Both the governor and the staffer wore masks at those events, the office said.

However, the staffer later experienced symptoms and was tested again Monday. That time the results were positive.

"I spoke with the staffer who tested positive and they have some symptoms, but are in good condition and resting at home," Pritzker said.

Pritzker used the situation to remind people that widespread testing is available in the state and that people don't need insurance or showing symptoms to take advantage of most of it. Testing sites can be found at the Illinois Department of Public Health web site at http://dph.illinois.gov/testing.

On Wednesday, IDPH announced 2,273 new cases of the coronavirus, bringing the statewide total to 293,274. There were 35 additional deaths bringing that total to 8,672.

The statewide positive rate is 3.6%.

Pritzker said the positivity rates in nine of the state's 11 regions have declined in the last two weeks. An exception is the north region that includes Rockford. Mitigation efforts in that region, which includes Boone, Winnebago, Ogle and Stephenson counties, go into effect Saturday and include a ban on indoor dining and bar service and limits on crowd sizes.

Mitigation efforts remain in effect in the Metro East area.

The Department of Public Health also posted its recommendations for Halloween activities on its web site. They can be found at http://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/community-guidance/halloween-guidance.

Public health experts are recommending that people alter their usual Halloween activities this year. Haunted houses are taboo because they tend to have many people in a small space. However, outdoor activities such as hayrides are acceptable in certain circumstances. It is also recommended that adults not attend Halloween parties.

Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike said people should understand that a Halloween mask is not a substitute for a face mask needed to protect against the coronavirus. Both should be worn, she said. Also, it might be better to set out individual pieces of candy on a table that trick-or-treaters can then retrieve.

"We are encouraging people to find ways to celebrate that might look a little different from years past, but which still allow our children to take part in our festivities," she said.

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I am scheduled to travel to Egypt on one ticket Tuesday, September 15 from Tampa to Dallas/Dallas to Heathrow/on a second ticket Heathrow to Istanbul/Istanbul to Cairo arriving 01.40AM at Cairo. The total time of my trip is around 33 hours. My questions:

1) Does Egypt require results that are dated no later than 72 hours before arrival (for example I get tested Friday the 11th and get my result Monday any time the 14th.

2) or that the test be conducted no more than 72 hours before arrival? (for example I get tested Monday the 14th, perhaps get my test as early as the 15th - print it out while at Heathrow - and check in for the LHR-IST-CAI segment.
Republicans are already accusing Democrats of anti-Catholic bias ahead of hearings to confirm Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court. Yet at the same time, the Trump administration is feuding with Pope Francis himself. Relations between the Vatican and the Trump administration hit a new low this week when the pope denied an audience to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo while he was visiting Rome. Donald Trumps relationship with the pope has long been rocky, dating back to the 2016 campaign when Pope Francis suggested that Trump is not Christian. Since then, Francis has expressed disdain for the administrations policies, particularly on immigration and climate change. In this latest case, Francis moral authority in the dispute is a little more dubious.

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Pompeo recently criticized the pope over the Vaticans intention to renew a controversial 2018 deal with the Chinese government over the appointment of bishops. The last several popes have all soughtwith little successto improve relations with the Chinese government, home to around 10 million Catholics. (Thats not many people by Chinese standards, but larger than the Catholic population of most European countries.) The stumbling block has been control over the appointment of bishops. The Chinese government views bishops appointed by the church as an infringement on its sovereignty and has insisted on choosing them itself. Chinese Catholics are split between an illegal, underground church thats loyal to the Vatican, and an official one with bishops appointed by the Catholic Patriotic Association, a state-controlled organization.

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Under the 2018 agreement, the text of which has never been made public, the Vatican agreed to recognize seven Chinese bishops who had been appointed without papal approval in exchange for some say over the appointment of future bishops. Francis defended the deal as a way to fulfill the heartfelt desire of Chinese Catholics to live their faith in full communion with the universal Church. But critics including Joseph Zen, the former cardinal of Hong Kong, accused Francis of selling out Chinese Catholics to a repressive atheist regime.

If the hope was to soften the Chinese governments stance on Catholicism, it does not appear to have worked. Since 2018, there have been reports of crosses being removed from church buildings throughout the country and regulations targeting religious education. In June, underground Bishop Augustine Cui Tai of Xuanhua, was detained and taken to an undisclosed location. Last November, police in Hong Kong entered a Catholic church to arrest protesters who had taken shelter there during anti-government demonstrations.

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Francis, who has spoken out strongly in defense of human rights and against the abuse of religious minorities elsewhere in the world, has also been notably quiet when it comes to the persecution of Muslims in Xinjiang, Tibetan Buddhists, or, for that matter, Christians throughout China.

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This is a natural priority for Pompeo, who is running a global campaign to pressure countries to spurn Chinese influence, and has not been shy about linking his faith (hes a member of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church) to his foreign policy goals. Prior to his planned trip to Rome this week, Pompeo published an essay in the Catholic magazine First Things, saying its clear that the Sino-Vatican agreement has not shielded Catholics from the Partys depredations and urged the Catholic Church to take note of its unique capacity and duty to focus the worlds attention on human rights violations, especially those perpetrated by totalitarian regimes like Beijings.

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The official reason for Francis refusal to meet with Pompeo is that he does not receive political figures ahead of electionsPompeo did get a meeting with the Vaticans secretary of statebut church officials were miffed that Pompeo published this criticism in a conservative magazine that has been strongly critical of Francis, rather than raising them in meetings with church officials, and suggested he was playing partisan politics.

Pompeo clearly knew his audience in writing the op-ed: This pope is not all that popular with Trumps evangelical base or with many conservative Catholics. While he didnt get to meet with Francis in Rome, Pompeo did attend an event on religious freedom organized by Callista Gingrich, the U.S. ambassador to the Vatican and wife of former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich, which was attended by a number of Francis critics, including Raymond Burke, the conservative American cardinal known for denying communion to Catholic Democrats like John Kerry and Nancy Pelosi. Pompeo called the accusation that he was playing partisan politics with his criticism just crazy.

Still, Pompeos hardly the only one who may be playing politics here. Theres an awful lot of cynicism to go around.
EDWARDSVILLE  A judge on Thursday morning found an Alton man guilty but mentally ill in the Oct. 16, 2018, murder of Eldon Twirp Williams of Godfrey.

Presiding over a bench trial, Circuit Judge Kyle Napp said experts on both sides gave credible evidence but, among several other factors, defendant Donald M. Nelson, 36, showed signs of defiance during during a recorded session at the Alton Police Department.

Napp said Nelsons behavior on the video led her to believe he was defying authorities, leading her to the conclusion that he was aware of the criminality of his acts.

Nelson could get up to life in prison. The penalty for murder is between 20 and 60 years in prison , but there is a 25-year-to-life enhancement because a gun was used.

Nelson also was convicted Thursday of criminal trespass to a residence, armed violence, unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon and possession of a stolen firearm. A sentencing date will be set.

Before the verdict, Napp offered condolences to Williams family, many of whom sat throughout the trial. Williams family members celebrated the verdict.

I want to thank the attorneys, and the wonderful job the police did, said JoEllen Archerd, Williams daughter.

Godfrey Mayor Mike McCormick said he was very happy with the verdict and thought it was fair.

The defendant committed a horrible act, and I lost a colleague and good friend, McCormick said. I miss Twirp on a daily basis.

Napp also told Nelson that the Illinois Department of Human Services failed him by failing to treat him for his mental illness.

Nelsons attorney, Assistant Madison County Public Defender Mary Copeland, on Wednesday sought a verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity which would have resulted in Nelsons confinement to a mental health facility until state authorities decided he could leave.

In order to prove that, Copeland would have had to prove that there was clear and convincing evidence that Nelson did not perceive the criminality of his acts.

On Wednesday, Dr. Terry Killian, testifying for the defense, said Nelson did not appreciate the criminality of his act when he shot Williams, 87, in the back of the head. There was no argument as to the facts that Nelson went to a house in the 200 block of West Delmar Avenue, Alton, where Williams was sitting in a car, and shot him before fleeing the scene.

Killian said Nelson has a history of mental illness, noting Nelson had been admitted a number of times to mental health facilities for treatment. Killian said Nelson suffered from probable schizo-affective disorder, which entails symptoms such as hallucinations or delusions, and mood disorder symptoms, such as depression or mania. Killian said he could not diagnose an accompanying mood disorder, along with Nelsons hallucinations.

Another expert witness, Daniel Cuneo testified Tuesday that while Nelson is mentally ill he was able to appreciate the criminality of his acts. Cuneo also testified that Nelson was malingering, or feigning insanity.

In her closing argument, Copeland said Nelson carries with him a great amount of guilt, over his actions. She said that, when he is taking the proper amount of medication, his symptoms are less bothersome.

Assistant Madison County States Attorney Cyrstal Uhe argued that Nelsons flight following the shooting and his lying to police was evidence of his recognition of the criminality of his acts. Officers from both Alton Police and the Madison County Sheriffs Office worked on the case.

We are fortunate we can take comfort in knowing all law enforcement is standing by to jump in and solve event the most unfathomable crime, States Attorney Tom Gibbons said.
ANN ARBOR, MI  When a proposed cleanup deal with polluter Gelman Sciences was announced in August, Ann Arbor Mayor Christopher Taylor expressed excitement, while County Board Chairman Jason Morgan, D-Ann Arbor, called the tentative legal settlement a monumental moment.

Both now say they dont support it, at least as currently drafted, and some other local officials say the same.

After listening to weeks of public input, they share residents' concerns about discharging dioxane-laced wastewater from proposed pump-and-treat cleanup operations into Ann Arbors First Sister Lake at the Dolph Nature Area.

Taylor said hes grateful for the work done by the negotiation team and he still thinks weve come a long way, but he wants an alternate discharge point for the proposed Parklake Avenue groundwater extraction system.

A map presented by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy at a virtual public meeting Sept. 14, 2020, showing plans for new groundwater extraction wells on Ann Arbor's west side to accelerate cleanup of the Gelman dioxane plume. Some of the purged water would be discharged into First Sister Lake after going through treatment to reduce pollution levels and some residents are concerned it could pollute the lake.EGLE

Taylor said hes looking for City Council to consider a conditional yes if resolution to articulate the conditions under which it would support a new deal to accelerate cleanup and expand monitoring of Gelmans dioxane plume, but with a different discharge location for the Parklake operations.

Council is expected to vote Oct. 19.

Plan to address Ann Arbor pollution unbelievably unacceptable, residents argue

Gelman discharged large amounts of the toxic chemical 1,4-dioxane into the environment at its Wagner Road filter manufacturing complex between the 1960s and 1980s. The plume has spread for miles through the areas groundwater, posing threats to drinking water supplies and raising concerns about potential infiltration into homes.

Gelman has been doing pump-and-treat remediation for many years under court orders, but the pace has slowed in recent years and local officials are pressing for a more aggressive cleanup targeting hotspots, as well as more monitoring to track the plume and make sure it isnt headed toward township residents' wells or the citys main drinking water supply, Barton Pond.

The proposed deal includes some of those elements, and Parklake Avenue is one of multiple hotspots that would be targeted, along with Rose Drive and the Gelman property.

First Sister Lake in May 2019. It's one of two natural lakes in Ann Arbor, the other being Second Sister Lake. Both are within the city's 57-acre Dolph Nature Area. Third Sister Lake is a stone's throw west of Wagner Road in the University of Michigan's Saginaw Forest, behind the Gelman Sciences property in Scio Township.Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News

Taylor said he supports the Parklake pump-and-treat system, as it could remove a significant amount of dioxane, but he wont support discharges into the Sister Lakes. Instead, he suggests piping discharge water back to Gelmans property, which is estimated to cost between $500,000 and $1 million.

A deep well to re-inject treated water back into the ground also has been mentioned as a possibility, Taylor said, but hes not sure about the feasibility or wisdom of that.

The pump-and-treat technique Gelman uses removes some, though not all, dioxane, and the effluent that is discharged is still laced with the pollutant within regulatory limits  up to 22 parts per billion daily with a monthly average up to 7 ppb.

Dioxane is classified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as likely to be carcinogenic to humans by all routes of exposure. It also can cause kidney and liver damage, and respiratory problems.

The states limit for dioxane in drinking water is 7.2 ppb.

Gelmans current cleanup operations discharge dioxane-laced effluent to Honey Creek, which flows to the Huron River upstream of Barton Pond.

Ongoing discharges may be to blame for dioxane in Ann Arbor drinking water

A hydrogeological expert said last week discharges to First Sister Lake could ultimately follow that same path after leaving the lake system, though there could be environmental impacts.

Morgan said he fully agrees with Taylor and will not support discharges into the Sister Lakes.

I will work to support this effort to secure an alternative to discharge into the lakes from the county. Thank you for your work on this, mayor, Morgan wrote in an email Wednesday, Sept. 30, ahead of a City Council public hearing.

Morgan said he had additional concerns and will continue listening to residents, gathering more information and working to get questions and concerns addressed.

Council members heard from several residents Wednesday night who urged them to reject the proposed legal settlement, some advocating for a federal Superfund cleanup through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

First Sister Lake in Ann Arbor on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2020.

Officials should insist Gelmans multibillion-dollar parent company, Danaher Corp., uses more effective treatment technology available through Trojan Technologies, one of its companies, some residents argued, saying the company has shown in Tucson the technology can remove dioxane to nearly non-detectable levels.

Danaher has the technology to actually remediate the situation and stop that plume from spreading, said Ann Arbor resident Lauren Sargent. And to even consider polluting a pristine lake, its like the Cat in the Hat. Its absolutely absurd.

Accepting the settlement means Gelman wins, that obfuscating wins, that threatening and twisting arms and delaying wins, and we simply cannot capitulate to that, she said.

After years of litigation, the proposed settlement is disappointing and almost embarrassing, said Linda Berauer, another Ann Arbor resident who argued Danaher has the resources and technology to do a better cleanup.

Fred Dindoffer, an attorney representing the city, said last week Gelman is the liable party, not Danaher. It would take significant factual and legal research to determine if Danaher could be held liable, he said.

Nancy Shiffler of the Sierra Clubs Huron Valley Group relayed her environmental groups opposition to the proposed legal settlement, saying its insufficient.

After four years of negotiations, we are still not far from where we were when the process started, Shiffler said.

The dilution and dispersion strategy remains, rather than a more aggressive cleanup strategy.

The group shares concerns about proposed discharges into First Sister Lake, worrying it could harm the wetland area.

Concerns remain as officials near decision on Ann Arbor pollution cleanup

Council members thanked the residents who spoke out Wednesday night.

I appreciate everybody doing their homework on this issue, said Council Member Jeff Hayner, D-1st Ward, agreeing its a very bad idea to pollute a pristine body of water.

Hayner made it clear hes not happy with the proposed settlement and encouraged his colleagues to reach out to him to discuss why they shouldnt be satisfied.

Council Member Anne Bannister, D-1st Ward, said the citys Environmental Commission, on which she serves, is drafting a resolution urging council to reject the settlement.

If there is consideration of a new discharge pipeline from Parklake Avenue to the Gelman site, Council Member Jane Lumm, I-2nd Ward, said the city should talk to Scio Township, Washtenaw County and Gelman to explore financing opportunities.

We all do share in this responsibility, so I would encourage staff to explore those options with our partners, she said, adding she wants clarification on whether that could be done separately from the legal settlement or if the settlement needs to be rejected in order to go back and further negotiate.

Council Member Ali Ramlawi, D-5th Ward, expressed concerns about the hundreds of thousands of dollars the city has spent on the litigation, saying the cost is becoming a little too heavy and residents are paying for it through their water bills.

Council Member Kathy Griswold, D-2nd Ward, said the city should consider all options for accelerated cleanup.

MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:

Expert explains cleanup plan for Ann Arbor dioxane plume in 7 new videos

Ann Arbor finalizing plans to test for dioxane leaking into residents' basements

10 (yard) signs show Donald Trump isnt getting many votes in Ann Arbor

Former Michigan Gov. Rick Snyders downtown Ann Arbor condo hits market for $2.35M

Coronavirus cases surge in University of Michigan residence halls
The (BJP) workers in the capital hold protest on Wednesday, demanding the re-opening of weekly markets.

Weekly markets in the city were closed since March 25 due to induced lockdown. Earlier, the government allowed the opening of the market on a trial basis till August 30.

on Wednesday reported 3,390 new COVID-19 positive cases and 41 deaths. According to the government bulletin, the total count of cases in Delhi has gone up to 2,79,715, including 26,908 active cases, 2,47,446 recoveries/discharges/migration, and 5,361 deaths.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Thu, October 1, 2020 15:50 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c487b2b8 4 National AGO,AGO-building-fire,Attorney-General-Office,National-Police,Bareskrim,criminal-investigation,arson,fire-accidents Free

The National Police's Criminal Investigation Department (Bareskrim) is examining a bank account owned by a janitor working at the Attorney Generals Office (AGO) in its investigation of a fire that destroyed the offices main building in South Jakarta on Aug. 22.

The bank account had hundreds of millions of rupiah.

Bareskrim general crimes director Brig. Gen. Ferdy Sambo said investigators and the janitor had visited the bank on Wednesday to obtain the bank accounts records.

We have visited BRI [Bank Rakyat Indonesia] and Bank Mandiri to ask for a printout of the janitors bank account for the past five years, Ferdy said on Thursday, as quoted by tempo.co.

Bareskrim investigators also questioned the janitor on Tuesday and Wednesday as a witness in the fire case.

Read also: Graft suspect's office destroyed in AGO blaze

Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) lawmaker Arteria Dahlan raised suspicions about the janitors bank account during a meeting between House of Representatives Commission III overseeing legal affairs and Attorney General ST Burhanuddin.

A fire broke out on the sixth floor of the AGO building on Aug. 22 at 6:15 p.m. It lasted for about 10 hours and engulfed the entire structure.

Although AGO officials said vital case records were out of harms way, some saw the fire as an attack on the prosecutors who were leading investigations into some of the nations largest graft cases.

On Sept. 17, Bareskrim concluded that the fire was caused by an open flame rather than an electrical short circuit, leading investigators to conclude that there may have been criminal factors behind the fire.

The police have questioned more than 130 witnesses in the investigation, including janitors, office clerks and other AGO employees. (aly)
MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- El Camino Health has been recognized with the Transcatheter Valve Certification from the American College of Cardiology (ACC), acknowledging its exceptional program, physician leadership, quality patient outcomes and team-based care. El Camino Health is the first health care organization in the state of California to receive this certification.

"We are especially proud of this certification from the American College of Cardiology, as the entire transcatheter valve team has worked tirelessly to ensure our program is one of the best in the country," said Frederick St. Goar, MD, medical director of the Heart and Vascular Institute. "As with everything we do at El Camino Health, our number one goal remains centered around delivering the safest, highest quality care and outcomes for our patients, and our cardiac programs are no exception."

The ACC's Transcatheter Valve Certification is an external review and certification process that identifies hospitals that are currently implementing best practices and clinical excellence in transcatheter valve procedures, which include replacing the aortic valve or repairing the mitral or tricuspid valves using minimally invasive techniques. El Camino Health's Norma Melchor Heart and Vascular Institute is recognized for its uniquely high quality, pioneering work in the heart valve space and offers advanced cardiac and vascular care at every stage of the health care continuum.

El Camino Health is advancing cardiology programs for patients with the recently opened, highly specialized Women's Heart Center  one of the only clinics of its kind in the region that offers comprehensive heart care for women. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the U.S., but symptoms often go undiagnosed or untreated. Through the new Center, El Camino Health is addressing gender disparities by taking a personalized and prescriptive approach to treatment, considering lifestyle, stress and other factors with a heavy emphasis on prevention.

El Camino Health has also launched a Cardio-Oncology Program, which specifically treats patients at risk for developing heart issues as a result of cancer treatment. This program is the only community-based cardio-oncology clinic in the Bay Area, with only two others in the Western U.S.

To learn more about El Camino Health's Norma Melchor Heart and Vascular Institute and the services it offers, visit www.elcaminohealth.org/services/heart-vascular.

About El Camino Health

El Camino Health provides a personalized healthcare experience at two non-profit acute care hospitals in Los Gatos and Mountain View and at primary care, multi-specialty care, and urgent care locations across Santa Clara County. For nearly sixty years, the organization has grown to meet the needs of individuals and communities it serves. Bringing together the best in new technology and advanced medicine, the network of nationally recognized physicians and care teams deliver high-quality, compassionate care. Key medical specialties include heart and vascular, cancer and lifestyle medicine. The hospitals have earned numerous awards for clinical excellence, such as a 5-Star Overall Hospital Quality Rating from Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and nursing care, including three consecutive American Nurses Credentialing Center Magnet Recognitions for Nursing Care. Visit elcaminohealth.org to learn more.

Media Contact

Christopher Brown, director of communications, El Camino Health

[email protected]

650-694-3891

SOURCE El Camino Health
The Internal Revenue Service is working to alert local residents that even if they didnt file a federal income tax return, theyre eligible for a coronavirus stimulus payment.

The IRS is mailing letters to the roughly 9 million people nationwide encouraging them to see if theyre eligible to claim an economic impact payment, colloquially known as a stimulus check, according to a release.

Letters will be sent to 71,382 people in Iowa who typically arent required to file a federal return, according to ZIP code-by-ZIP code data provided by the IRS. That includes 2,105 Council Bluffs residents.

Specific data for Pottawattamie County as a whole and Mills and Harrison Counties wasnt available, as the agency rolled any ZIP code with less than 200 mailings into an other category, of which there are 26,928 for Iowa.

The letters being sent out this month are to residents who havent filed a return for either 2018 or 2019.

The agency noted based on an internal analysis, these are people who dont typically have a tax return filing requirement because they appear to have very low incomes based on Forms W-2 and 1099, and other third-party statements available to the IRS.

The letter urges recipients to visit the special Non-Filers: Enter Payment Info tool on IRS.gov before an Oct. 15 deadline to register for an Economic Impact Payment. Residents can register ahead of the letter arriving if they believe theyre eligible.

The letters will be sent in both English and Spanish and include information on eligibility criteria.

The IRS continues to work hard to reach people eligible for these payments, IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig said in the release. These mailings are the latest step by the IRS to reach as many people as possible for these important payments. We are releasing this state-by-state information so that state and local leaders and organizations can better understand the size of this population in their communities and assist them in claiming these important payments. Time is running out to claim a payment before the deadline.

Individuals can receive up to $1,200, and married couples can receive up to $2,400, according to the IRS. People with qualifying children under age 17 at the end of 2019 can get up to an additional $500 for each qualifying child.

The IRS cautioned that receiving a letter is not a guarantee of eligibility. An individual is likely eligible if he or she is a U.S. citizen or resident alien, has a work-eligible Social Security number and cant be claimed as a dependent on someone elses federal income tax return.

People can qualify for a payment, even if they dont work or have no earned income. But low- and moderate-income workers and working families eligible to receive special tax benefits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit, cannot use this tool, the IRS noted. They will need to file a regular tax return as soon as possible. The IRS will use their tax return information to determine and issue any Economic Impact Payment for which they are eligible.

After signing up, residents can go to irs.gov/coronavirus/get-my-payment#_blank to check the status of their payment.

Go to irs.gov/coronavirus for more information.

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.
An entire neighbourhood in North Korea has had its handwriting checked to find the culprit who scrawled anti-government graffiti on a fence.

The message appeared earlier this month at a marketplace in Unsan in South Pyongan, north of the capital Pyongyang.

It read: 'Down with party officials, who live well by exploiting the people.'

Authorities believe that it was a direct criticism of North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un, also referred to as Highest Dignity, because the sign appeared close to the 75th anniversary of the October 1945 founding of the ruling Korean Workers' Party.

Officers have since checked the handwriting of both adults and children - with their left and right hands - to find who might have daubed the slogan.

The message appeared earlier this month at a marketplace in Unsan in South Pyongan, north of the capital Pyongyang (farmers in Unsan pictured)

One resident of South Pyongan, who wished to remain anonymous, told RFA's Korean Service: 'Security officials concluded that the graffiti is an attempt to overthrow party officials and is an anti-government act that directly criticizes the party's central leadership, including the Highest Dignity. So, they began an investigation.

'Under the orders of the security department, the leaders of the local neighborhood watch units visited each household, making both adults and children to write with pens on paper to be submitted to the security department.'

The source added: 'They are closely comparing the graffiti and the handwriting examples, but they have yet to catch the criminal. So, they are starting a second handwriting investigation.

'The first time they made everyone write with their right hand, but this time, all the residents must write with their left.'

It is thought that even non-residents of the province who had been in the area at the time the graffiti appeared have been requested to submit samples.

Authorities believe that it was a direct criticism of North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un (pictured) - also referred to as Highest Dignity

The investigation has now been ongoing for two weeks.

But citizens have expressed their satisfaction with the graffiti 'because the authorities and powerful people, including party officials, are well off, but normal residents suffer each year from different hardships,' a second source told the publication.

In 2019 a study by NSI, a Boston-based analytics firm, was carried out into inequality in North Korea - officially the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK).

It concluded that whilst primary data on North Korean was not available, 'anecdotal information and innovative means of tracking resource flows indicate that the DPRK may be by far the most unequal society in the world, with a small elite (less than 10 per cent) controlling virtually all wealth, leaving the rest of the population at barely or below subsistence level.'
Dr Bert Keizer is the 'go-to' man if you want assistance in ending your life. A 73-year-old philosopher-turned-geriatrician, the Dutchman works for the End of Life Clinic in The Hague.

The law changed in the Netherlands in 2002, when euthanasia was legalised for patients experiencing unbearable suffering with no prospect of improvement. The range of conditions expanded and the definition of unbearable suffering was loosened in 2007.

Since then, the numbers being euthanised have grown steadily from 2,000 that year to 6,600 in 2017.

According to a Guardian article in 2019 by Christopher de Bellaigue, one-quarter of all deaths in Holland are induced. Euthanasia accounted for 4.2pc of deaths in the Netherlands last year.

Writing in the journal of the Dutch Medical Association, Dr Keizer caused a stir recently. He wrote: "After the turn of the [last] century, what our British colleagues had predicted years earlier with unconcealed complacency happened: those who embark on euthanasia venture down a slippery slope along which you irrevocably slide down to the random killing of defenceless sick people With every limit we set ourselves, there is the possibility to cross it And so it was with euthanasia.

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"We started with the terminally ill, but also among the chronically ill it turned out to be hopeless and unbearable suffering. Subsequently, people with incipient dementia, psychiatric patients, people with advanced dementia and elderly who struggled with an accumulation of old-age complaints. And finally elderly, who, although not suffering from a disabling or limiting disease, still find that their life no longer is content."

He said, "it is true that we now provide euthanasia to people to whom we had said, a little indignantly, 20 years ago, 'Come on, that is really impossible'."

He went on to speculate about the possibility of expanding the practice to prisoners with life sentences who long for death, or "doubly disabled children" who are institutionalised and suffer because of self-harm.

He has not become a born-again anti-euthanasia campaigner. Far from it. He sees expanding the grounds as a sign of progress.

Professor Theo Boer, a Dutch ethicist, agrees with Dr Keizer that there is a slippery slope. However, unlike Dr Keizer, he no longer embraces euthanasia.

Prof Boer writes: "Like many of the current supporters of assisted dying, I used to believe that it was possible to regulate and restrict killing to adults with less than six months to live I was wrong."

For 10 years, he was a member of the Dutch board reviewing all cases of assisted dying and his research found that legalising assisted suicide has had a normalising effect of suicide in the general population.

He points to data from the Netherlands showing that 1,353 died by suicide in 2007, while in 2019 the figure was 1,811, a rise of more than a third. The figures contradict what campaigners claim when they say that assisted suicide actually reduces the overall suicide rate.

In Canada, euthanasia was legalised in 2016, again for terminally ill adults. This was challenged in the Superior Court of Quebec and that limitation was declared unconstitutional. It is now available to any patient, whatever their life expectancy. Meanwhile, in the Hague, a bill to allow the killing of any person over the age of 75 is being considered. It is further evidence of the slippery slope.

A chilling paper in the Canadian Medical Journal in 2017 examined the cost implications of medically assisted dying. It calculated that the saving in health costs was between $34.7m (22.1m) and $138.8m (88.5m), far exceeding the cost of its implementation.

The authors wrote: "Providing medical assistance in dying in Canada should not result in any financial burden to the healthcare system, and could result in substantial savings."

So the value of the elderly and seriously ill is now being reduced to commodities on which a saving could be made, if only they could be eliminated.

We are now beginning our debate on euthanasia in Ireland, although campaigners are using the term "death with dignity". This is no more than an Orwellian play on words that shies away from what is proposed and what it could become.

It is the active participation of a doctor in knowingly bringing about the death of another human being. By its presence in society, it has unintended consequences on suicide in general.

Euthanasia, or assisted suicide, or whatever euphemism is used, does not have a monopoly on death with dignity. The term is a cruel blow to those of us who have lost loved ones who, dying naturally, had a death with dignity, or as we often say in this country "a good death".

Given the experience of Theo Boer, a one-time supporter of euthanasia, and the comments of continuing advocate Bert Keizer, about the reality of the slippery slope, we should be careful what we wish for in Ireland.

Patricia Casey is consultant psychiatrist in the Mater Hospital and professor emeritus at UCD

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article please contact Samaritans helpline 116 123 or Aware helpline 1800 80 48 48 or Pieta House on 1800 247 247.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 22:44:23|Editor: huaxia

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MOSCOW, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Leaders of Russia, the United States and France on Thursday called for an immediate cessation of hostilities between countries involved in the armed conflict in the Nagorno-Karabakh region, according to the Kremlin.

In a joint statement published by the Kremlin, Russian President Vladimir Putin, U.S. President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron, representing the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Minsk Group Co-Chairs countries, condemn in the strongest terms the escalation of violence taking place on the contact line in the Nagorno-Karabakh region.

"We mourn the victims and express our condolences to the families of those killed and wounded," it read.

"We also call on the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan to immediately undertake commitments in good faith and without setting preconditions to resume negotiations on the essence of the settlement with the assistance of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs," said the statement.

Armenia and Azerbaijan have been at loggerheads over the mountainous region of Nagorno-Karabakh since 1988. Peace talks have been held since 1994 when a ceasefire was reached, but there have been occasional minor clashes along the border.

A new round of armed conflict broke out Sunday morning along the contact line of the Nagorno-Karabakh region. The clashes, which are still going on, have reportedly caused heavy casualties and equipment loss. Enditem
After the Central government released guidelines for Unlock 5.0, Uttarakhand government on Thursday said that schools will be opened in the state only after consultation with parents and school management.

Arvind Pandey, state education minister held a meeting in this regard with senior officials at the state secretariat on Thursday.

Any decision regarding opening of the schools will be taken after consultation with all concerned parties including the management of the schools. All the district magistrates are being instructed to send feedback related to their districts to the government in a week, after which any decision will be taken, said Pandey.

The district magistrates have been asked to give feedback based on the status of Covid-19 in their districts, what the management committees and parents of students say there. After the feedback received from the districts, a decision will be taken by the cabinet in consultation with the health department. The state cabinet is scheduled to meet on October 14 next.

If the opinion is formed regarding opening of schools, then it will be proposed to open schools in three phases. In the first phase, classes 9 to 12 will be included, classes 6 to 12 in the second phase and all other classes in the third phase. All the protocols required for Covid-19 will be followed in all schools. The safety of children is paramount. No child will be compelled to come to school without parental permission, said Pandey.
Ghana's Political struggle for independence and partisan Politics has been silent on the role of women. The name of Rebecca Naa Dede Aryettey a famous political female guru in the Nkrumah CPP is always silent and Several people do not even know her image is on the 50 Ghana Pesewas.



The Traditional Ghanaian society by default has relegated women to a more silent Edifice, the home.



Men have always taken a certain entrenched position as the movers of various facets of society thus, Politics and governance, technology, construction, etc..



There have been several civil society groups that have been serious advocates for women empowerment and Emancipation.



In the recent past, there has been a revolution of women conspicuity, and that the role of women recently cannot be downplayed.



A woman worthy of Mention is Nana Ama Asiamah Agyei Dokua..the Deputy Minister of Information and the member of Parliament for Akuapem North Constituency.



For the purpose of this write-up, I will dwell on the Name Dokua.



To my readers, Dokua an Akuapem has Akyem as her kinsmen and her name Dokua was named after a brave woman warrior of the Akyem people who in the history of Akyem was the only Queen-King that ever lived. That is, in the History of Akyem, she was once a Queen Mother and a King at the same time. This feat is not a mean achievement.



Dokua "Abire" as she was affectionately called embarked on a series of wars of conquest and consolidated the gains of Akyem Abuakwa.Akyem Abuakwa became a cradle of development and was seen as a state of civility.



It was during the reign of Aberewa Dokua in the 1800s when she accepted and gave Kukurantumi Akyem lands to Asante refugees from Dwaben to settle in the present New Juabeng with Koforidua as the Capital

Again, it was under her rulership that she ordered the Akyem Wankyihene who doubled as the Osewuohene of Akyem Abuakwa to give out lands to Akyem Kotoku for their present settlement.



Aberewa Dokua was a woman par excellence and her diplomatic skills and her humanistic instincts made Akyem a hospitable enclave to live.



It is Worthy to note that names have consequences and it is not surprising that the current Ama Dokua of Akropong is exhibiting some qualities that were features of the Aberewa Dokua of old.



she has denied the old age mentality that politics is a male-dominated career. Her Political prowess is glaring for all to see.she has distinguished herself in the male-dominated area..her diplomatic skills have resulted in the elevation of the Akuapem area with several developments including the construction of schools, clinics, provision of boreholes, and the most important achievement of funding education for several people in tertiary Institutions. This and many others were made possible by her diplomatic Tendencies.



Akuapem North Constituency is now a home for most of the People and her readiness to accept you is a hallmark of an exceptional leader.



Her bravery can be likened to her "Greatest" Grandmother and has made her survive in the vigorous Ghanaian politics and still growing stronger.



No wonder at her youthful Age she's now a role model for most Ghanaian young girls.



Ama Dokua, your name is a name of historical relevance and you have not disappointed your Greatest



Grandmother.



Soar Higher.







Source: Daniel Obeng Acquah (Boxxy)









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TEMPE, Ariz., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture has awarded researchers from Arizona State University and the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture grant funding to examine consumer preferences for U.S. beef and to estimate beef import demand in select countries within Asia, Europe, and Latin America.

Leading the effort is Carola Grebitus, associate professor of food industry management in the Morrison School of Agribusiness at ASU's W.P. Carey School of Business. The $477,131 grant will fund the researcher's insights regarding the economic implications of changes in trade policies and provide information on how the U.S. beef export market can be strengthened.

"This project will evaluate consumers' willingness to pay and demand for U.S. beef in select markets that are important to U.S. exports and overall global beef trade," said Grebitus. "Our findings will provide information to beef producers and processors with regards to beef characteristics that are important to consumers in different parts of the world, and shed light on whether shoppers are willing to pay a premium for U.S. beef."

While the United States is one of the largest beef exporters in the world, recent years have been wrought with trade disputes that have impacted agricultural trade, such as the trade war with China; U.S. withdrawal from the Trans-Pacific Partnership; a renegotiated U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement; and ongoing trade negotiations with the European Union. Although China opened its market to U.S. beef in 2017, beef exports to this region have remained negligible, further prompting research to help strengthen and expand the U.S. beef export markets.

Beef is one of the largest U.S. agricultural exports, making it a vital sector to analyze for global trade. "Maintaining and expanding foreign markets for U.S. beef is crucial to the economic viability of U.S. agriculture," said co-project director Karen DeLong, associate professor in the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics at the University of Tennessee. "This project will provide beef producers and processors with information of potentially significant drivers of future beef demand and important information regarding the potential for U.S. beef in foreign markets."

The three-year project is funded by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture and will target specific markets that are important to U.S. exports and overall global beef trade. Japan and Mexico are the two largest markets for U.S. beef and will be among the countries chosen for this study, along with three emerging markets: China, the U.K., and Germany. The three emerging markets were also chosen because they are representative of key regions around the world, allowing research results to be extrapolated for other countries.

"Ultimately, this project will provide insights regarding the economic implications of changes in the aforementioned trade policies and provide information on how the U.S. beef export market can be strengthened," said co-project director Andrew Muhammad, Blasingame Chair of Excellence in Agricultural Policy at the University of Tennessee. "The policy relevance lies in the analysis of different export markets outside the U.S. and whether or not foreign consumers are likely to purchase U.S. beef with different characteristics, and then using these results to assess the impact of pending and existing trade agreements on U.S. beef exports."

About the W. P. Carey School of Business

The W. P. Carey School of Business is one of the top-ranked business schools in the United States. The school is regarded internationally for its research productivity and distinguished faculty members, including a Nobel Prize winner. Students come from more than 100 countries, and alumni represent W. P. Carey in over 160 countries. Visit wpcarey.asu.edu.

For more information, contact:

Shay Moser, W. P. Carey School of Business

[email protected], 480-965-3963

SOURCE W. P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University

Related Links

https://wpcarey.asu.edu


Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Vadra on Thursday were detained by UP police. They were stopped by Uttar Pradesh authorities at Yamuna Expressway while they were on their way to Hathras to meet the family of a 19-year-old girl who succumbed to her injuries as she was gangraped by 4 men. Rahul Gandhi, while speaking to media said that he was lathicharged by the cops.

Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, partys general secretary in-charge of Uttar Pradesh were detained by Uttar Pradesh authorities on Thursday. They both were on their way to meet Hathras victims family. Rahul asked the cops that on what grounds was he being arrested, the cops said that they were arresting him under IPCs section 188 for violation of an order.

Rahul and sister Priyanka Gandhi, partys general secretary in-charge of Uttar Pradesh were stopped on their way to Hathras by state authorities at Yamuna Expressway. Rahul Gandhi said to the media that he was pushed by the police. He said that the cops lathicharged him and threw him to the ground.

The Congress leader asked if only Prime Minister Modi can walk in the country and not a common man. He said that their cars were stopped by the authorities so they started walking. Gandhis then started a foot-march to meet Hathras rape victims family after their convoy was stopped, their foot-march has been stopped as well by the authorities.

Also read: President Kovind turns 75, Prime Minister Modi, Home Minister Shah and others extend greetings

#WATCH Congress leader Rahul Gandhi roughed up by police on his way to Hathras, at Yamuna Expressway, earlier today Rahul Gandhi has been arrested by police under Section 188 IPC. pic.twitter.com/nU5aUSS64q  ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) October 1, 2020

Earlier pictures of Congress leader #RahulGandhi being roughed up by Uttar Pradesh police at Yamuna Expressway, while he was on his way to #Hathras pic.twitter.com/tsJVuo4V1N  ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) October 1, 2020

Also read: Hathras Horror: Forensic report shows the victim wasnt raped, says UP Police

Uttar Pradesh authorities have imposed a ban on crowding and gatherings citing coronavirus pandemic. Barricades had been placed on the borders in the view of Covid-19. Congress workers were holding massive protests there. Section 144 had also been imposed in the district.

19-year-old Hathras victim succumbed to her injuries on Tuesday in Delhis Safdarjang Hospital, New Delhi. Her family alleged that she was raped by four men from upper caste but the forensic reports that have come out today stating that the victim was not raped and that she died due to strangulation.

Also Read: Hathras horror: Outrage over victims midnight cremation, PM dials Yogi Adityanath; SIT to submit report in 7 days

#WATCH Rahul Gandhi, who has been stopped at Yamuna Expressway on his way to Hathras, asks police, "I want to walk to Hathras alone. Please tell me under which section are you arresting me." Police says, "We are arresting you under Section 188 IPC for violation of an order. " pic.twitter.com/uJKwPxauv5  ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) October 1, 2020

We have stopped them here. The Epidemic Act is being violated. We will not allow them to proceed forward: Noida ADCP Ranvijay Singh https://t.co/Cnrp4iDn1s pic.twitter.com/3VATy9FngK  ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) October 1, 2020

#WATCH Just now police pushed me, lathicharged me and threw me to the ground. I want to ask, can only Modi Ji walk in this country? Can't a normal person walk? Our vehicle was stopped, so we started walking: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi at Yamuna Expressway,on his way to #Hathras pic.twitter.com/nhu2iJ78y8  ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) October 1, 2020
London, Oct 2 : Even an effective coronavirus (Covid-19) vaccine will not return life to normal in spring, a group of leading scientists has warned. A vaccine is often seen as the holy grail that will end the pandemic.

But a report, from researchers brought together by the Royal Society, said we needed to be "realistic" about what a vaccine could achieve and when. They said restrictions may need to be "gradually relaxed" as it could take up to a year to roll the vaccine out, the BBC reported on Thursday.

More than 200 vaccines to protect against the virus are being developed by scientists around the world in a process that is taking place at unprecedented speed.

"A vaccine offers great hope for potentially ending the pandemic, but we do know that the history of vaccine development is littered with lots of failures," said Dr Fiona Culley, from the National Heart and Lung Institute at Imperial College London.

There is optimism, including from the UK government's scientific advisers, that some people may get a vaccine this year and mass vaccination may start early next year.

However, the Royal Society report warns it will be a long process.

"Even when the vaccine is available it doesn't mean within a month everybody is going to be vaccinated, we're talking about six months, nine months... a year," said Prof Nilay Shah, head of chemical engineering at Imperial College London.

"There's not a question of life suddenly returning to normal in March." The report said there were still "enormous" challenges ahead.

Some of the experimental approaches being taken - such as RNA vaccines - have never been mass produced before.

There are questions around raw materials - both for the vaccine and glass vials - and refrigerator capacity, with some vaccines needing storage at minus 80C.

Shah estimates vaccinating people would have to take place at a pace, 10 times faster than the annual flu campaign and would be a full-time job for up to 30,000 trained staff.

"I do worry, is enough thinking going into the whole system?" he says.

Early trial data has suggested that vaccines are triggering an immune response, but studies have not yet shown if this is enough to either offer complete protection or lessen the symptoms of Covid.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
When testing for the coronavirus, the swab has to reach the back of the throat and then high up the nose. (Posed by models, Getty Images)

With the coronavirus dreaded second wave now well underway in the UK, testing is as important as ever.

Knowing you have the infection enables patients to isolate and warn those they have spent time with to get swabbed, helping to stem the spread of the virus.

With children back at school after months out of the classroom, many are concerned outbreaks could occur among pupils. While it is unlikely they will become seriously ill, children could pass the infection to vulnerable grandparents.

Anyone with the coronavirus tell-tale fever, cough, or loss of taste or smell is encouraged to get tested for free on the NHS. While suspected patients can go to a test site, at-home swabs can also be ordered if the individual is unable to travel.

Read more: One in 10 critically ill COVID patients has a cardiac arrest

The NHS stresses those aged 11 or under should have the swab performed for them. While generally considered painless, children are unlikely to take well to a long cotton bud being put up their nose or down their throat.

An expert has therefore shared her top tips on how to test a young child for the coronavirus.

With children back at school across the UK, outbreaks could occur within classrooms. (Posed by models, Getty Images)

How to perform a self swab at home

Regardless of a persons age, anyone performing a swab should first wash their hands thoroughly or use a sanitiser made up of at least 60% alcohol.

A deep swab is required of both the nose and throat using the same cotton bud.

The idea is to get the cotton tip on both tonsils and then right to the back of your nose, said a medic from Barts Health NHS Trust, London.

If its a properly taken swab, you should gag.

Read more: UK coronavirus cases exceeding April's 'peak'  why are deaths low?

When it comes to the nose, the medic stressed the swab should be pushed back as far as it can go until you hit resistance and then turned around. Repeat with the other nostril.

He added it is normal to tear up during the nasal swab.

The bud should then be lowered into an upright sample container and broken at the snap off point.

Story continues

Watch: How to do a coronavirus self-swab test

Tips on swabbing young children

A coronavirus swab is generally considered uncomfortable.

For children who are old enough to understand, explain how important it is they are tested amid the pandemic.

Having an honest and age-appropriate conversation about what is happening and whether they have any worries can help manage anxieties and show younger children talking about their feelings is okay, Emma Selby, a nurse who specialises in child mental health, told Yahoo UK.

Otherwise, they might fill in the gaps with their own imagination, and become overwhelmed and scared if they need a test.

Selby  who is also clinical lead for the AI mental health app Wysa  recommends parents and guardians performing the test first have a health meeting with the child.

Read more: Vitamin D linked to reduced risk of coronavirus death

Use diagrams or educational videos to explain what the virus is, how it spreads, and how were looking after our health and our loved ones by having a test, she said.

By being honest, linking the test back to people they know and care about, and positioning the swab as something they are doing to look after them, you can make them feel empowered about taking a test rather than afraid.

For toddlers and babies, Selby advises turning the swab into a game and distracting them with other sensory stimulants such as lights, bubbles and noises.

This will help calm your child and make a positive connection with the swab, she said.

Also, it can be helpful to have a drink on hand for afterwards to help clear your childs throat or a well done treat such as a biscuit or their favourite toy.

Watch: UK coronavirus cases high but deaths low - why?
Friday will see the next volume of Rihanna's scintillating Savage X Fenty lingerie collection.

And actress/model Cara Delevingne, along with model/DJ Soo Joo Park, served up some edgy and cheeky looks on the brand's Instagram on Wednesday, to build further buzz leading up to the Amazon Prime Video premiere of the show.

Cara, 28, and Soo Joo, 34, appeared in fishnets and lingerie in the saucy post, in a two-shot from behind that also saw the beauties rocking some artful face makeup.

Cheeky display: Cara Delevingne, along with model/DJ Soo Joo Park, served up some edgy and cheeky looks on Savage X Fenty's Instagram on Wednesday

Sublime: The images were to build further buzz leading up to the Amazon Prime Video premiere of the Savage X Fenty Volume 2 show on Friday

The very rock 'n roll-inspired image saw the pair in pink hair  Cara's 'do surely a wig  as they were scantily clad in skimpy brassieres, thongs and silver chains.

Cara's underthings were black with garter bands on her upper thighs, while Soo Joo's were white and paired with lacy stockings which peeked out over her fishnets and under her thigh-high boots.

Both femme fatales sported pointy white manicures, as they palmed their derrieres.

Meow: The very rock 'n roll-inspired image saw the pair in pink hair  Cara's 'do surely a wig  as they were scantily clad in skimpy brassieres, thongs and silver chains

The ladies' makeup looks featured black linework creating a profile down the center of the face, in a similar style made famous by John Cameron Mitchell in his stage show Hedwig And The Angry Inch.

Park, a successful Korean-American DJ who is also the global ambassador Chanel and L'Oreal Paris, also wore fishnet opera gloves and a chunky chain bracelet.

'They comin' for you with that BBE*. Serve it, @caradelevingne + @soojmooj!' the brand wrote in the caption for the scintillating snap, adding the footnote '* Bad Bih Energy'.

In her element: Cara looked very excited during a video link for Balmain

Going for it: She was dressed to the nines for the occasion and clapping her hands in delight

The post was sandwiched between closeups of Delevingne and Park on Savage X Fenty's Instagram feed, each 'hidden' by a 'warning' in the style of IG's trademark 'sensitive content' warnings.

One of them read: 'Shocking Content - May contain some major T&A. Clutch ya pearls, hunny.'

On the bottom, the image stated, 'See More 10.02.20'.

The closeups of Delevingne and Park were each 'hidden' by a 'warning' in the style of IG's 'sensitive content' warnings: 'Savage Content - May contain some BBE (bad bih energy)'

The posts were the latest in a buzzy campaign leading up to the Savage X Fenty show, the second of its kind to be featured on Amazon Prime.

Other snippets have featured the likes of Lizzo, Demi Moore and Bella Hadid, all of whom will appear in the sexy showcase.

And 'bad gal riri' Rihanna will also feature in the proceedings, having teased an image of herself earlier on Wednesday to the brand's IG feed.

Other snippets for the show have featured the likes of: Lizzo, Demi Moore and Bella Hadid, all of whom will appear in the sexy showcase
Dunn graduated from arts at University of Sydney in 1964. The St Andrews College yearbook of the same year remarks that he was often conspicuous late at night in the college corridors in pyjamas, clutching a toothbrush, engaged in loud argument with all and sundry.

Born in 1944, Dunn and his sister, Phillipa, were the children of farmer and RAAF flying instructor Thomas William Dunn and University of Sydney botanist Marjorie Harriet Taylor. The family lived and worked on their farm, Hareenyha, on the outskirts of Wagga Wagga. His education began at bush school Eunonyhareenyha before he boarded at Scots College.

Robert Dunns footprints could often be found on his beloved Newport Beach. But if you followed his tracks over the length of his life, you would see this talented solicitor-turned local politicians commitment to the environment and his community left a much larger imprint. His passion sparked an uprising that formed the first new breakaway council in a century and inspired two young men to enter state and federal parliaments.

Conscious of the financial burden of his college and tuition on his parents, Dunn returned to Wagga to complete his legal studies as an articled clerk with Walsh and Blair. He was admitted in 1969 before working in Canberra, Sydney and London.

Although offered a partnership in London, Dunn decided to return to Australia in 1972. A year later, he met and married Carolyn (his wife of 47 years), joined the Liberal Party and established Robert T Dunn & Co Solicitors in Mona Vale.

He often joked he did it all in one year to avoid forgetting the key anniversaries. Over the next 10 years, he focused on building his business, family and political experience. In 1976, the couple had their first child, Robert Simon, followed by Angus, Edwina and Hannah within the decade. His eldest son still runs the family firm Dunn Legal.

Dunn always said that in politics, timing was everything. Unhappy that the 1978 Pittwater electoral conference had refused to acknowledge or list his motion for party structure reform, he decided to confront the state executive at the state council AGM. As it happened, a young and ambitious Bronwyn Bishop was seeking election as state president the same night. She rang to work out a deal and they agreed on the wording of her apology as president once elected.

Just to be sure she wouldnt back off, Dunn sat in the front row, where he eyeballed her and was ready to jump to his feet if she hesitated. Nick Greiner, then leader of the Opposition, was also sitting in the front, and gave a grin and nod of approval as Bronwyn read out her contrite agreed apology word for word. It would be some years until Greiner became Premier, more still until he would preside over the formation of Pittwater Council. However, it was two decades before the Liberals adopted a near-identical party structure to what he had proposed in 1978.
Bengaluru, Oct 1 : Former Karnataka minister Aravind Limbavali, who headed the fact finding committee of the ruling BJP to probe the Bengaluru riots that broke out about a month ago, handed over its report to Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa at the party office here on Thursday.

While handing over the report, Limbavali demanded that the state government should take steps to impose a ban on the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) for its alleged involvement in the D.J. Halli riots, that broke out in different parts of the city.

In the riots, Congress MLA Akhanda Srinivasamurthy's ancestral house and two police stations were torched by an enraged mob over an alleged Facebook post by the MLA's nephew, Naveen Kumar.

According to the report, the riots were pre-planned taking extensive help of social media to instigate the mob.

"On that day, Bengaluru witnessed a Taliban-like situation in D.J. Halli and K.G. Halli where the riots broke out. Efficient officers should be deputed by the police for the area," the report noted.

The report also tried to highlight that the riots were a result of a leadership crisis within the Congress.

Giving a clean chit to the police department, the report added that intelligence failure was not the cause for the riots, but the internal crisis in the Congress was the reason.
BHP will create up to 1250 new apprenticeships in Perth as part of a $800 million skills and technology package to be rolled out over the next five years as Australia focuses on its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Up to 1250 apprenticeship positions will be created in BHP's Welshpool academy.

BHP chief executive Mike Henry announced the additional job opportunities on Thursday, vowing $300 million of the cash boost would be spent on 2500 additional apprenticeships and traineeships.

Of the 2500 positions, half will be based in the companys FutureFit Academy in Welshpool, the other half in Mackay in Queensland.

Apprenticeships will be on offer for heavy diesel fitters and mechanical fitters.
Upset with the alleged gang-rape and murder of a 19-year-old Dalit woman in Hathras district of Uttar Pradesh and her forcible cremation subsequently, a Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court on Thursday summoned top government officials to the court.

A bench of justices Rajan Roy and Jaspreet Singh issued summons to the Uttar Pradesh additional chief secretary, director general of police and additional director general of police, asking them to be present before the court on October 12 to explain the case.

Taking suo moto cognisance of the September 14 gang-rape and subsequent death of the teenager, the bench also ordered the Hathras district magistrate and senior superintendent of police to appear before it. The bench asked all officials to come prepared with all the relevant material and documents to apprise the court of their versions of the incident.

The court, which appeared especially upset over the police cremating the teens body overnight allegedly forcibly in Hathras without her parents consent, also asked officials to apprise the bench of the latest status of the probe into the alleged gang-rape and murder case. The bench also asked the late teens parent to come to the court to apprise it of their version of the incident and ordered the Hathras district administration to arrange for their travel to the court.
CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Adaptive Surface Technologies, Inc. (AST), a Cambridge, MA-based industrial technology company that produces the SLIPS line of materials and coatings used for a wide range of industrial, marine, and medical repellency applications, today announced that it has entered into an IP licensing partnership with global chemical manufacturer SABIC for development of consumer packaging products. The agreement covers mutual intellectual property for AST's SLIPS Zero line, which enables consumer brands to create novel packaging designs for viscous liquid products.

"We are delighted to announce our collaboration with SABIC to develop enhanced packaging performance in our SLIPS Zero product range, as well as working on joint customer opportunities with SABIC's broad network of packaging raw material customers," said David Ward, Chief Executive Officer of Adaptive Surface Technologies.

The SLIPS Zero system allows for complete emptying and cleaning of the package, resulting in less waste, improved recyclability, and potential reusability. AST and SABIC will also collaborate on commercial opportunities, as SABIC and its customers continue to pursue sustainable consumer packaging solutions.

AST also announced that it has raised a new round of equity financing. The new funding comes from existing investors, including industrial technology investment firm Anzu Partners, and underlines the progress that the company has made in 2020 despite the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. AST recently announced it was awarded a $500,000 U.S. Air Force AFWERX SBIR Phase II contract for the development of ice-phobic coatings for military aviation.

AST's corporate investors include Tokyo Electron Ventures and BASF Venture Capital.

For more information Adaptive Surface Technologies and its products, please visit https://adaptivesurface.tech .

About Adaptive Surface Technologies

A world leader in repellent surfaces, Adaptive Surface Technologies, Inc. is a Cambridge, MA-based industrial technology company that produces the SLIPS line of materials and coatings used for a wide range of industrial, marine, and medical applications. Our innovative coatings and cleaning maintenance systems create a slippery, fully liquid layer on surfaces that repel fluids, contaminants, and biological fouling agents. For more information, visit https://adaptivesurface.tech .

About SABIC

SABIC is a global leader in diversified chemicals headquartered in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. We manufacture on a global scale in the Americas, Europe, Middle East and Asia Pacific, making distinctly different kinds of products: chemicals, commodity and high performance plastics, agri-nutrients and metals.

We support our customers by identifying and developing opportunities in key end markets such as construction, medical devices, packaging, agri-nutrients, electrical and electronics, transportation and clean energy.

SABIC recorded a net profit of US$ 1.5 billion in 2019. Sales revenues for 2019 totaled US$ 37.3 billion while total assets stood at US$ 82.6 billion. Production in 2019 was 72.6 million metric tons.

SABIC has more than 33,000 employees worldwide and operates in around 50 countries. Fostering innovation and a spirit of ingenuity, we have 12,540 global patent filings, and have significant research resources with innovation hubs in five key geographies - USA, Europe, Middle East, South Asia and North Asia.

CONTACT

Rob Haralson, [email protected]

(202) 674-6679

SOURCE Adaptive Surface Technologies, Inc.
Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi, his sister and party general secretary in-charge of Uttar Pradesh Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and other leaders were detained by the police on their way to Hathras to meet the family of the 19-year-old Dalit girl - who died in a Delhi hospital on Tuesday, a fortnight after she was allegedly gang-raped in her village.

The Bharatiya Janata party (BJP) dubbed the proposed visit of Gandhi siblings to Hathras as political tourism. Union minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said the criminals will be punished for their barbarism. The probe teams are carrying out the investigation, but I think there should not be political tourism on the same, he said.

The Gandhis and other Congress leaders were first stopped at Greater Noida on the Yamuna Expressway and later detained when they started walking towards Hathras, around 145 km from Greater Noida.

Taken away in a police jeep, the Gandhis were kept in a guest house for sometime before being released and escorted back to Delhi by the UP police. The Congress had claimed that Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi were arrested by the police and attacked state chief minister Yogi Adityanath for the move.

Shri Rahul Gandhi, Smt Priyanka Gandhi and senior Congress leaders have been arrested by the UP police, the party said on Twitter.

Videos and pictures shared by the Congress showed Rahul Gandhi falling down in the scuffle that ensued when the police tried to stop Congress leaders and supporters from marching towards Hathras near the Jewar toll plaza.

The girl was cremated in the early hours of Wednesday, with her family alleging the local police forced them to conduct the last rites in the dead of the night.

Priyanka Gandhi also alleged that the police used lathis on Congress workers and many of them were wounded in the baton-charge.

Earlier, Rahul Gandhi was seen asking the UP police under which law he was being stopped and insisted that he would like to proceed alone towards Hathras to meet the rape victims family since Section 144 was imposed. Under this section, assembly of four or more people is prohibited.

Can you tell me under which law can you stop me from marching towards Hathras? I want to go alone to Hathras and on what basis can you arrest me? he asked, to which police officials replied that he had violated Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) of disobeying orders promulgated by the government during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Rahul Gandhi also alleged that in India today only RSS people and Prime Minister Narendra Modi can move around. In todays India, only Modi can walk or travel by air. No one else can, he said.

The Congress leader also tweeted, In times of sorrow, loved ones are not left alone. It is Jungle Raj in UP that meeting a family in mourning also scares the government. Do not be so afraid chief minister.

Priyanka Gandhi said they were repeatedly stopped from going to Hathras. When we all started our march on foot with Rahul ji, we were repeatedly stopped and lathis rained on us in a barbaric manner. Many workers were injured. But our intention is clear, she alleged.

The sticks of an egotistical government cannot stop us. I wish these lathis were used by this police while standing in defence of Hathrass Dalit daughter, she also tweeted in Hindi.

An arrogant power is demonstrating its power over the dead bodies of innocent girls and it is indulging in injustice, instead of preventing it. Our struggle for women will continue for a safe society and state, where they can live freely and progress, Priyanka Gandhi said in another tweet.

Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala also posted a video with a tweet showing Rahul Gandhi allegedly being manhandled.

Lala Lajpat Rai had said that every blow of a stick on my body would prove to be the last nail in the coffin of the British Raj. The sticks on Rahul ji and Priyanka jis convoy will also prove to be the last nail in the coffin of the Yogi government, he tweeted in Hindi.

Former union finance minister P Chidambaram also alleged that none of the countrys laws seemed to apply to the UP police.

UP police is a law into itself. None of the laws of the country seem to apply to it. What is wrong if the leaders of a political party protest against a gruesome crime and wish to visit the victims family? he asked on Twitter.

The Congress has demanded Adityanaths resignation over the gruesome incident that it said was a blot on the society. Congress chief Sonia Gandhi said the Nirbhaya of Hathras did not die but was killed by a cruel and insensitive government and its administration.

In a video message, she said the country will speak up against this injustice and not allow the BJP to divide the country and violate the Constitution.

Before leaving for Hathras, Rahul Gandhi attacked the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government over jungle raj in Uttar Pradesh. The atrocities on daughters continue in UPs jungle raj. They were not given respect when alive and now the dignity has been taken away even in death. The BJPs slogan of Beti Bachao is not to save girls but to hide facts and save power, he tweeted.

Priyanka Gandhi too attacked Adityanath over the increase in incidents of rape in UP. Hathras-like gruesome incident has happened in Balrampur. The girls feet and back was broken. There have been atrocities on girls in Azamgarh, Baghpat and Bulandshahr. There is no limit to UPs jungle raj. Law and order cannot be implemented through marketing and speeches. This is the time for the chief ministers accountability. People want answers, she tweeted in Hindi.

But the BJP accused the Congress of politicising the issue and said the Uttar Pradesh government would provide justice in the incident.

Without naming the Gandhis, Naqvi said, Those who are trying to increase the tension through political tourism, should not do that. Everyone is saddened and wants punishment for the culprits. The Uttar Pradesh government is working towards it. You will see the results soon.

In UP, cabinet minister Siddharth Nath Singh lashed out at the Congress leaders and accused them of politicising the incident. He said the Congress leaders must answer why they havent visited Rajasthan where a similar incident of rape has been reported.

Singh said the Hathras gang rape will be heard in a fast track court and the UP chief minister has already declared that a special investigation team (SIT) will probe the matter. It will be made public in a weeks time, he said, adding the state government has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2,50,000, a house and a job for the family of the victim.
Over 2,000 mathematicians have signed a letter agreeing to boycott all collaboration with police, and insisting their colleagues do the same.

They are organizing a wide base of mathematicians in the hopes of cutting off police technologies at their source. The letters authors cite deep concerns over the use of machine learning, AI, and facial recognition technologies to justify and perpetuate oppression.

Predictive policing is one key area where some mathematicians and scientists have enabled the racist algorithms now animating broken-windows policing, which tell cops to treat specific areas as hotspots for potential crime. Activists have long criticized the bias inherent in these practices. Algorithms trained on data produced by racist policing will reproduce that prejudice to predict where crime will be committed and who is potentially criminal.

The data does not speak for itself, its not neutral, explains Brendan McQuade, author of Pacifying the Homeland: Intelligence Fusion and Mass Supervision. Police data is dirty data, because it does not represent crime, but policing and arrests.

So what are its predictions going to find? That police should deploy their resources in the same place police have traditionally deployed their resources.

Algorithms Perpetuate Over-Criminalization

Predictive policing of this kind came into use only in 2013, but today its implementation is both vast andbecause companies claim their algorithms and customers (local governments) are valuable trade secretsobscure. Most U.S. states and major cities are thought to use some type of predictive policing model, with known users including Chicago, Atlanta, Tacoma, New York, and LA, though not without a considerable amount of pushback.

Tarik Aougab, an Assistant Professor of Mathematics at Haverford College, was one of many mathematicians who saw the recent uprising as a push to take action against these practices. If there is already disproportionately large amounts of time and energy being spent criminalizing Black and brown people, Aougab explains, the predictions the algorithm puts forth are just going to reflect that. Its a way to perpetuate that over-criminalization.

Black people not only face higher murder rates at the hands of police but disproportionately high arrest rates as welltwice that of their white counterparts. Racial data is not allowed to be used as a factor within predictive policing models, but in the US, location and socioeconomic factors are employed as an easy stand-in for racial data.

The popular use of racist predictive policing technologies is unsurprising for Aougab, who traces the history of the police, which is rooted in slave patrols and private security forces hired by the rich to break up labor strikes. Their primary motivation is not to serve and protect, Aougab said, but preserving a social order that is put forth by the will of elites to protect property. The institution has never drifted away from that basic function over its entire existence in this country.

McQuade argues that surveillance isnt just about policing, its about more subtle forms of social control. Just as a reduction in prison population has only led to an increase of home monitors, so too is there a risk that reduction in police on patrol would only lead to greater use of predictive policing technologies.

Mathematicians Boycott Police

The call to action for many among this large collaboration of mathematicians was the police killings of George Floyd, Tony McDade, and Breonna Taylor.

At some point we all reach a breaking point, where what is right in front of our eyes becomes more obvious, says Jayadev Athreya, a participant in the boycott and Associate Professor of Mathematics at the University of Washington. Fundamentally, its a matter of justice.

The mathematicians penned an open letter, collecting thousands of signatures for a widespread boycott. Every mathematician within the groups network pledges to refuse any and all collaboration with police. Called out in particular was a mathematics foundation that allowed the founder of PredPol, a major predictive policing company, to host a sponsored workshop encouraging mathematicians to work with police.

PredPol is not a neutral tool to deliver data, but a policing company with an agenda. Internally, it compares its software to the highly-criticized broken windows policing strategy, where a department heavily polices nuisance violations believing that doing so will curb more serious crime. There is little evidence that this is so.

It has instead become a vector for mass incarceration, sending millions of mostly young Black men to prisons for non-violent crimes or, in cases like Eric Garners, death by police while selling loose cigarettes.

PredPol encourages departments to expand their usage of the technology to include predicting nuisance crimes. This provides them with more business, and its easier for algorithms to predict, because non-violent crimes happen with more regularity.

Theres a big question here: is predictive policing really getting ahead of events, or is it just a self-fulfilling prophecy? McQuade explains that crime statistics are more accurately referred to as arrest statistics. They measure police behavior, which is not directly correlated with crime and violence. These arrests justify and perpetuate more arrests.

Athreya explains the boycotters will confront this by collaborating with criminal justice organizations.

We want to work through issues of how various algorithms are used in the criminal justice system, for things from facial recognition to DNA matching algorithms, where community groups and mathematicians can have a say.

One step along that route is the creation of ethics materials for courses and conferences, critical of policing and the role of these technologies as part of it. Equally important, however, is developing a culture around the mathematics community, where those cooperating with police are outcast.

We want folks to be politicized, Aougab explains. In mathematics that is rare, because there is this widely held and false belief that mathematicians have some sort of super power to be objective, and not influenced by political considerations like any other human being.

The open letter, and its upcoming publication in the notices of the American Mathematical Society, is the first step in that direction. Mathematicians, when confronted with large-scale police brutality and organizing by their peers, must choose a sidethat of the people or the police.

Those who chose to side with the police have pushed back against Aougabs criticisms. They would say You all are not personally involved in writing these algorithms, so you dont know enough about the math to be taking such a hard stance.

The point I want to make is we did not arrive at this stance by finding an error in a formula, Aougab said. This is a political stance that anybody can take.

Giving Policing A Scientific Veneer

An algorithm can only be as good as its data, and in this case, the data is derived from the actions of corrupt and biased police departments.

One study conducted by the AI Institute last year examined police departments and their predictive policing systems. The result: in numerous jurisdictions, these systems are built on data produced during documented periods of flawed, racially biased, and sometimes unlawful practices and policies.

A 2019 audit on predictive policing in Los Angeles found a serious lack of oversight or procedures around the tools, rendering them relatively useless. While some trials have found a slight, but statistically insignificant improvement in prevention of crime, accurate studies are difficult to find. Complicating matters is the fact that researchers have noticed police tend to pursue their own known hotspots rather than follow the dictates of the technology.

For Aougab, that is to be expected because police never intend to change their practices. Its nefarious, he explains, because now theres a scientific veneer for what the police were going to do anyway. It doesnt actually have an impact on how the police police, and where they police. But it gives them what appears to be a legitimate justification for what they were already going to do.

One demand of the mathematics collective is that any algorithm must face a public audit before its usea process in which mathematicians and community groups must participate.

But the profit motivations behind tools like PredPol have resulted in fiercely guarded practices. Companies claim both their algorithms and clients are trade secrets, blocking analysis of exactly how these black-box technologies work and are used.

Police departments are similarly tight-lipped. In 2018, the New York Police Department (NYPD) faced a lawsuit after denying information requests for so much as the algorithmic inputs and outputs. The NYPD argued that releasing predictive policing data would allow criminals to somehow game the system, as well as harm relationships with their vendors.

Tech companies are major players in the policing business, lobbying state legislatures to approve bills that allow for use of their technology. In the case of PredPol, this means effectively throwing millions of dollars to bolster broken windows policing tactics.

Is Predictive Policing Free From Bias Possible?

Newer models have tried to break free from the bias of arrest data by building their algorithms on citizen reports, suggesting that 911 calls similarly correlate to where crime is happening.

While this avoids the bias of individual police officers, the bias of callers remain. Only around 40 percent of the victims of violent crime even report their assault to the police in the first place, and many marginalized people avoid doing so out of fear for their safety.

Viral videos depicting white women calling the police on Black neighbors simply for existing in public also illustrate the racist motivations behind police calls.

Critics of predictive policing models also point out that the type of crime police address rarely includes far more common white-collar crimes such as wage theft and fraud. These can indirectly but violently cost people their lives, health, and homes. The state and police make an active choice to pursue certain crimes over others, and as a result, the poor are surveilled and protection of property is prioritized over human lives.

Meanwhile, the harm created by this situation is not considered criminal.

We dont usually think of any deprivation of rights or basic necessities as a crime, McQuade notes. Deprivations including disinvestment from communities, poverty, crumbling infrastructure, failing schools, public health issues, pollution, and voter suppression are all the result of decisions made by those in power. Theres a strong case to be made that those are crimes, and thats erased from consideration.

Police abolitionists suggest other paths forward. Rather than tackling crime, society should be focusing on addressing harm. Reducing public urination and graffiti might be successful crime prevention to PredPols algorithms, but they have little to do with the material and political reasons behind why violence occurs, especially in communities constantly subjected to poverty and police violence.

Policing and prisons are not a just or effective way to prevent and heal damage, Aougab explains. None of these algorithms, even if they worked perfectlywhich they dontwould be addressing harm.

The Threat Of AI In An Uprising

As calls for defunding police echo across the U.S., mathematicians and activists keep a watchful eye out for increases in algorithm-based policing and surveillance. Using AI is cheaper than paying for salaries of patrolling police, but just as biased and with potentially just as deadly outcomes.

Among the Black Lives Matter uprisings, police are doubling down on AI technologies as a deadly weapon. Facial recognition technologies are being used across the country to identify, track down and arrest protesters with alleged criminal activity, to dissuade others from taking to the streets.

As police surveillance and AI use escalate, Aougab insists The mathematics community is going to have to figure out how to play a bigger role in monitoring and ultimately dismantling the collaborations that exist between us, and the institution of policing.
The Chief of the Garu Traditional Area, Naaba Akontam Suguru Awuni, has said the current and future generation will applaud President Akufo-Addo and the NPP, for the introduction of the Free SHS among other projects since their administration started in January 2017.

According to the chief, the introduction of the Planting for Food and Jobs initiative, and other policies implemented by the NPP government since they took over office has transformed the lives of Ghanaians.

Describing the Free SHS policy as the greatest intervention to hit the education sector in the country's pre-and post-colonial history, Naaba Akontam Suguru Awuni said students and parents on any day will forever be grateful to the President.

The Chief made this comment when the Minister for Communications, Mrs. Ursula Owusu Ekuful paid a courtesy call on the chiefs and Queen Mothers of Garu, as part of her tour to rally support for the NPP in the Upper East Region ahead of the December parliamentary and presidential elections.

We are Planting for Food and Jobs. I am not surprised that our people have nicknamed the President as a friend to farmers. The Chief noted.

Naaba Akontam Suguru Awini used the occasion to appeal to the Minister of Communications and Roads Minister to fast-track the construction of the leftover roads.

He assured the NPP of his commitment to gain more votes for the party to enable them to continue their prospects of good works for Ghana and the people of Garu.
MINNEAPOLIS, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Meda (Metropolitan Economic Development Association) has opened up applications for its third year of the Million Dollar Challenge for Minority Entrepreneurs. The Meda Million Dollar Challenge is the largest BIPOC entrepreneurial competition in the country, awarding $1 million in financing to BIPOC businesses from across the nation.

This year's competition will continue to include the Boot Camp for Successful Pitches as well as the final pitch and award ceremony, hosted entirely online. Find the application form here: http://meda.net/challenge2020.

Applications open October 1, 2020 and the 15 finalists will be announced November 30, 2020. Finalists will virtually attend Boot Camp for Successful Pitches from December 7, 2020 until January 22, 2021. The final pitch event will take place January 27, 2021.

Meda is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping BIPOC businesses succeed. The past two years of the Million Dollar Challenge resulted in 12 minority businesses from five states receiving financial awards, totaling nearly $3 million.

"Meda's Million Dollar Challenge provides so many opportunities for entrepreneurs of color to highlight their creativity and innovation, and accelerate their business growth," said Alfredo Martel, President and CEO of Meda. "Investing in BIPOC businesses is more important than ever as the economy is ravaged by the effects of COVID-19 and civil unrest. BIPOC entrepreneurs are resilient and adaptable, and investing in them has proven to create jobs and boost economic development. We are excited to bring the Million Dollar Challenge back for a third year to continue that impact and support on a national level in these unprecedented times."

Meda services include business consulting, financing solutions and corporate and government opportunities, such as contracts and funding opportunities. Since its inception in 1971, Meda has assisted more than 20,500 BIPOC entrepreneurs and helped start more than 500 minority-owned, small businesses.

About the Metropolitan Economic Development Agency (Meda): Meda was founded by a group of Minnesota business leaders who saw minority business ownership as a positive, long-term response to rising economic inequity within minority communities in our state. Meda provides business development services, access to capital and corporate and governmental market support for minority entrepreneurs. Over the years, Meda has helped launch more than 500 minority businesses and assisted more than 20,000 Minnesota minority entrepreneurs. Today, Meda clients employ 6,000 Minnesotans and have a combined annual revenue of $1 billion. Meda operates a growing Community Development Fund Institution (CDFI) that provides needed capital for minority businesses to become sustainable. Meda is also the host organization for the Minneapolis Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) Business Center, which has been recognized by the MBDA as the top performing center four consecutive years from 2016- 2019. For more information, visit meda.net.

Contact:

Carol Schuler

[email protected]

612-281-7030



SOURCE Metropolitan Economic Development Association
Three teens charged with homicide in the shooting death of a high school senior in Bethlehem have been ordered held in Northampton County Prison, court papers show.

Gabriel Ramos, 18, of Lehighton, turned himself in to Bethlehem police on Wednesday, accompanied by his attorney, Josh Karoly, according to District Judge John Capobianco.

Ramos was not in custody earlier Wednesday when Northampton County District Attorney Terry Houck announced homicide and related charges would be filed against Ramos and co-defendants Isaac Bringuez and Christopher Nieves, both 16 and from Bethlehem.

The three are charged with killing 17-year-old Aiden Toussaint, of Whitehall Township, during an apparent marijuana deal that turned into a robbery and led to gunfire about 9:35 p.m. Tuesday in the area of Norwood Street and Dearborn Avenue, in Bethlehems Saucon Park.

Ramos, Bringuez and Nieves were all arraigned Wednesday night before Capobianco on charges of homicide, robbery, conspiracy and related crimes.

Capobianco sent them all to the prison without the possibility of bail.

Nieves is represented by attorney John Waldron, and Bringuez did not immediately have counsel.

The three face preliminary hearings to determine if there is sufficient evidence to send the charges against them toward trial in Northampton County Court. All three hearings are tentatively scheduled Oct. 14 before District Judge Nicholas Englesson in his office on Stefko Boulevard in Bethlehem.

Bringuez is accused of arranging to buy a quarter-pound of marijuana from Toussaint, who brought his younger brother and his girlfriend to Saucon Park to make the deal, authorities said. Instead, Bringuez along with Nieves and Ramos took some of the marijuana during an altercation, police allege. Two others reportedly came to the park with the alleged assailants, and police say they know who they are, but they were not immediately charged with any crimes.

Toussaint tried chasing them but was shot with a laser-sighted firearm that witnesses said Ramos had pulled from his waistband, according to police.

Toussaints brother and girlfriend drove off with him and flagged down police in the area of East Fourth Street and Lynn Avenue as officers were responding to the report of shots fired in the park. Toussaint was taken by ambulance to St. Lukes University Hospital, Fountain Hill, where he was pronounced dead of gunshot wounds. The death was ruled a homicide.

Bethlehem police were continuing their investigation.

City police on Wednesday night responded to reported gunfire for a second straight night, this time in the area of Pembroke Road and Garfield Street along the border in Freemansburg. The shootings do not appear to be related.

Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com.

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WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange will spend Christmas behind bars as he awaits a decision on his bid to avoid extradition to the United States.

The 49-year-old, who fathered two children while holed up at the Ecuadorian embassy in London for seven years, has already spent 16 months at Belmarsh top security jail.

He is wanted in the US over leaks of thousands of classified documents a decade ago, allegedly exposing US war crimes and abuses in Iraq, Afghanistan and Guantanamo Bay.

At the end of four weeks of evidence at the Old Bailey on Thursday, Judge Vanessa Baraitser adjourned the case until January 4 when she will deliver her ruling on whether Assange should be extradited.

Whistleblower Chelsea Manning was jailed over leaks (PA)

She remanded Assange in custody and said he will next appear at Westminster Magistrates Court for an administrative hearing on October 29.

Assanges legal team has called dozens of witnesses in a bid to persuade the district judge to block his extradition.

They have questioned the strength of the evidence against Assange, who faces 18 charges including a plot to hack computers and conspiracy to obtain and disclose national defence information.

Assange has refuted the claim he plotted with defence analyst Chelsea Manning to crack an encrypted password on US Department of Defence computers and that unredacted leaks by WikiLeaks put US informants lives at risk.

Witnesses have told the court the prosecution under the Donald Trump administration has been politically motivated, after an investigation launched under President Barack Obama failed to bring charges.

His lawyer Jennifer Robinson described a meeting in August 2017 in which he was offered a pardon allegedly on behalf of Mr Trump to identify the source of the Democratic National Committee leaks to WikiLeaks which boosted him in the 2016 election in order to end speculation over Russian involvement.

Meanwhile, security contractor was allegedly recruited by American friends to bug Assanges meetings at the Ecuadorian embassy.

Story continues

By December 2017, the US contacts were said to be desperate, and even discussed a potential kidnap or poison plot to end the stalemate.

Assanges partner Stella Moris (left) and human rights lawyer Jennifer Robinson arrive at the Old Bailey (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

US lawyer Eric Lewis told the court Mr Trump wants to put Mr Assange in jail and keep him quiet.

The defence say the US constitutions first amendment on freedom of speech has previously protected publishers of leaks, and to prosecute would be a chilling precedent.

Other witnesses told of the likelihood that Assange would be subjected to harsh prison conditions under controversial Special Administrative Measures (Sams), more commonly reserved for dangerous terrorists.

If Assange was convicted, he could face up to 175 years in a Supermax ADX facility in Colorado, where convicted terrorist Abu Hamza has been housed under Sams in solitary confinement, the court heard.

Such conditions would be torturous for Assange, who was said to have Aspergers syndrome.

Psychiatrists for the defence said he had suffered from severe depression and was a high suicide risk, it has been claimed.

Lawyers for the US Government have said the prospect of Assange being held under Sams is speculative and the sentence was likely to be much lower.

Ms Manning had been sentenced to 35 years over her role in leaking classified material, but was given clemency after seven years.

However, she was jailed again for contempt in 2019 and fined for refusing to testify in court about Assange.

A psychiatrist for the prosecution told the court that Assanges depression was moderate and his suicide risk manageable.

Dr Nigel Blackwood pointed out Assanges behaviour demonstrates he is a resourceful and resilient man capable of sharing banter with others.

However, the defence said an incident in May 2019 in which a razor was found hidden in Assanges cell beneath underwear told a different story.

The evidence ended on Thursday with a series of witness statements summarised in court, including five from Assanges solicitor, Gareth Peirce.

She said legally privileged material had been seized from the Ecuadorian embassy after his eviction, at the request of the US.

Mrs Peirce also claimed her own meetings with Assange in December 2017 and January 2018 were the subject of surveillance, with records handed to the US intelligence agencies.

I was wholly unaware of that surveillance, she said, although Assange remained suspicious throughout that period.

There is a very high level of anxiety and fear that legal interviews with Mr Assange are continuing to be monitored, she said.

This fear is triggered by the clear evidence that surveillance had been taking place over a number of years.

Mrs Peirce said this had had a chilling effect on the preparation for Assanges extradition hearing and effected confidence as to the confidentiality of his case.

Throughout the hearings in Court 10, pro-Assange protesters have staged noisy and colourful demonstrations outside the historic central London court, shouting, banging drums and a glockenspiel.

Mr Assanges father, John Shipton, had been joined by the artist Ai Weiwei and designer Dame Vivienne Westwood  who also lent their support.

Assanges partner, Stella Moris, sat metres from Assange, who on three occasions leapt up in the dock as he became animated by the evidence.

In an unprecedented move brought about by Covid-19 restrictions, dozens of journalists watched by video link or in an socially-distanced courtroom next door as the majority of witnesses gave evidence remotely from the US.
Donald Trump distorted Joe Bidens description of the Democratic Party under his leadership, telling supporters on Wednesday night in Minnesota the former vice president owns the socialism the president says defines his party.

The president made another stop in the state in less than two weeks despite trailing there, according to multiple polls, by around 10 points. He began the rally by predicting a victory before hammering his general election foe and trying to link him to the progressive wing of the Democratic Party. He uttered false statements about his own record and Mr Bidens proposals. But he did not offer a clear denouncement of white supremacists after twice sidestepping pointed questions on the matter in the last two days.

What the Democratic presidential nominee actually said during their raucous first debate was: I am the Democratic Party right now. (The partys nominee becomes its leader, at least until Election Day, and sets its official policy platform.)

During the Tuesday night debate in swing state Ohio, the president tried contending Mr Biden supports the Green New Deal, an environmental plan experts say would require a $3trn makeover of the entire US economy. The former VP told Mr Trump he supports the Biden plan to address environmental issues, a more moderate blueprint.

Using a word Mr Biden used for him, at one point, Mr Trump said of a potential Biden presidency: Can you imagine if this clown gets in?

The president stepped onstage at the rally for his first extended public appearance  he held a closed-door fundraiser in Shorewood before heading to an airport in Duluth to greet his adoring loyalists  since his angry and aggressive performance in the first general election debate the night before.

After ripping into his general election foe, the president dropped a phallic quip as he introducted his partys candidate for the states 5th Congressional District seat: "A man with the greatest name in politics, Lacey Johnson."

At Tuesdays debate, he again declined to clearly denounce white supremacist groups, including the Proud Boys. As he left the White House on Wednesday, he again did not say white supremacists when he vaguely denounced any form of any of that. Some members of his party, in a rare move, distanced themselves from his repeated refusals. Senate Majority Whip John Thune called on the president to clear it up.

But a night later, after declaring victory earlier in the day despite multiple polls saying voters deemed his rival the clear winner, Mr Trump contended he held Joe Biden accountable for his 47 years in Washington.

Great Lakes gamble

Mr Trumps midweek stop in the Great Lakes State was something of a long-shot try at trying to flip a state he lost narrowly four years ago. It was his second rally there in 12 days.

Most sites tracking polls in battlegrounds no longer include Minnesota. But political strategists have told The Independent they believe Mr Trumps rallies and ad buys in the state are designed to force the Biden campaign to also devote more resources there.

RealClearPolitics average of polls there give Mr Biden a 9.4-point lead with less than two months to go, but Mr Trump, as he did during his 18 September rally and again on Wednesday night, predicted he will finish the job he started in 2016. One survey, concluded on 18 September by the Washington Post and ABC News, gave the former vice president a commanding 16-point lead.

That makes Minnesota something of an outlier in the Midwest, where Mr Trump had been chipping away at his rivals leads. Mr Trump had cut into Mr Bidens leads in Pennsylvania, Michigan and other states in late-July. But after more recent controversial comments, including suggesting he might not oversee a peaceful transition to Mr Biden if he loses in November, the president has again lost ground in the Rust Belt, according to new polling.

All evidence before last week suggested the presidents law-and-order message in the face of sometimes-violent protests over racial inequality and police violence against black people was resonating there.

Despite the myriad controversies and self-inflicted wounds of his term, the president remains within striking distance of Mr Biden.

For instance, one new poll out Tuesday put the former VP up 10 percentage points in Pennsylvania, which experts say Mr Biden must win. But that survey came with an eyebrow-raising 5-point margin of error. Notably, Mr Trump either leads or is within three percentage points in a list of other swing states: Arizona, North Carolina, Florida, Ohio, Texas, Georgia and Iowa.

For his part, Mr Biden also hit the road after the first debate, departing on a train whistle-stop tour of Ohio and Pennsylvania. He will be in Michigan on Friday.

He did what I expected him to do last night, Mr Biden said of the president in Alliance, Ohio. I think the phrase was: Now he can become really vicious  that was his phrase.
House Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Commercial and Administrative Law Chair David Cicilline, D-RI, speaks during a hearing on "Online Platforms and Market Power" in the Rayburn House office Building on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on July 29, 2020.

Congress' more than year-long investigation into four of the world's most valuable tech companies is nearing its final stages, paving the way for new legal proposals that could drastically alter antitrust enforcement in the U.S. for the years to come.

On Thursday, the House Judiciary subcommittee on antitrust held its seventh and final hearing in a series examining the health of competition in digital markets and the business practices of Amazon, Apple, Facebook and Google. The event was not as splashy as the subcommittee's July hearing featuring the four tech CEOs and it also took about half the time.

But the nitty-gritty legal questions at this latest hearing displayed a group of lawmakers nearing the final stage of a long-awaited conclusion to their tech probe.

Chairman David Cicilline, D-R.I., summarized the recurring themes from the expert witnesses at the end of the hearing for how to reform the laws. Those themes included:

Shifting the burden to dominant companies to prove their mergers will not harm competition, rather than forcing investigators to prove that a merger will harm competition.

Separating different lines of business to weed out conflicts of interest.

Beefing up resources at enforcement agencies.

Prohibiting companies from "discriminatory behavior." (He didn't expand on this point, but could have been talking about how companies promote and price their own products.)

Reversing court decisions that have "changed the intention of Congress" on antitrust law.

A congressional aide for a Democratic member of the Judiciary Committee, who was not authorized to speak publicly on the process, told CNBC that committee members anticipate reviewing the report in the coming days before releasing it publicly.

So far, it seems the subcommittee staff has held the report closely. But Rep. Ken Buck, R-Colo., said in an interview Wednesday that, based on conversations with Cicilline and staff, he expects it will include an overview of the investigation's findings as well as broad legislative recommendations. Buck had not yet seen the report as of Wednesday.

Subcommittee Ranking Member Jim Sensenbrenner, R-Wis., who does not support updates to the antitrust laws, said in his opening testimony that enforcement of existing laws needs to step up. But he also noted reports that the Justice Department may soon bring an antitrust case against Google as evidence that change is already underway.
At least 21 undocumented immigrants have died in custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in the last 12 months, according to data released by the agency.

ICE announced the figures for the fiscal year 2020, which covered October 1, 2019 through September 30, 2020.

The death toll of 21 for the 2020 fiscal year far exceeds the eight deaths recorded for the 2019 fiscal year, and matches the death toll from 2005.

At least 28 migrants died in custody of ICE in 2004.

Maria Celeste Ochoa (left) and Cipriano Chavez (right) were among the 21 undocumented immigrants who died in custody of ICE from October 1, 2019 to September 30, 2020

Demonstrators gather outside of Stewart Detention Center in Lumpkin, Georgia, during a demonstration Monday calling for the abolishment of ICE. Data from ICE shows that 21 detainees died under its custody during fiscal year 2020, which spanned October 1, 2019 through September 30, 2020

ICE reported that eight of the 21 deaths this year were caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Another seven detainees committed suicide. The six other deaths were tied to cardiac arrest and a brain injury.

Data from the agency also showed that 6,208 of 42,366 detainees have tested positive for the coronavirus since the outbreak of the epidemic.

The Stewart Detention Center, a private prison in Lumpkin, Georgia, contracted by ICE, was the worst hit with three migrant deaths related to the coronavirus, and 354 confirmed cases.

La Palma Correctional Facility, another private-owned jail contracted by ICE in Eloy, Arizona, saw 385 undocumented immigrants tested positive for the virus.

Inmates (photographed August 23, 2017) walk down a hallway at the Otay Mesa Detention Center in San Diego

The Winn Correctional Center in Louisiana, Glades County Detention Center in Florida, and Joe Corley Detention Center each had one detainee die of the coronavirus.

'Like all agencies and institutions around the world, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has adapted in response to the unprecedented Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic,' an ICE spokesperson said in a statement provided to DailyMail.com.

'Since March, ICE has temporarily reduced the population of all detention facilities to 75 percent capacity or less, and its detained population has dropped by more than 18,000, in an effort to minimize the spread of the virus within ICE detention facilities.'

The Stewart Detention Center, a private prison in Lumpkin, Georgia, contracted by ICE, was the worst hit with three migrant deaths related to the coronavirus during fiscal year 2020

Protesters gathered Monday outside Stewart Detention Center in support of undocumented immigrants held at the private jail, which is contracted by ICE

'We're seeing the pandemic is playing a role - but also the conditions of detention, and what it does both to your mental health and the really poor medical care that exists inside,' said Silky Shah, executive director of Detention Watch Network, to CNN.com.

'As we're looking at this death toll going up, what it tells us is ... it's a system that shouldn't exist. People should be with their loved ones, with their families, being able to social distance and quarantine at home going through their immigration proceedings.'

As of Sunday, ICE listed 19,791 people in detention.
Albany, N.Y.  Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced today a new smartphone app is available that will tell New Yorkers if they have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for coronavirus.

Smartphone users who download the free app, called Covid Alert NY, will be notified if they have been within six feet of an infected person for at least 10 minutes.

Its using technology on a level its never been used before, Cuomo said in a telephone press briefing.

Cuomo said the new app is voluntary and anonymous. It can be downloaded from the Apple App Store and Google Play.

The state Health Department will contact people who have tested positive and ask them to anonymously participate in the smartphone contract tracing program. New Yorkers who are notified by the app that they have been exposed will be directed to quarantine, stay home and call a doctor.

The app was developed by Apple, Google and other technology companies for about $700,000. Former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and the federal government picked up the cost.

The more people who download the app, the more effective it will be, Cuomo said.

Melissa DeRosa, a Cuomo aide, said the app does not track a users location or movement, nor does it use GPS. It also does not collect or store personal information, she said. It uses bluetooth technology to send proximity to another phone with the same app, but not geographic location.

Its available to anyone 18 or older who lives, works or goes to school in New York state. Cuomo said the app will also be available for residents of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware and Connecticut.

James T. Mulder covers health and higher education. Have a news tip? Contact him at (315) 470-2245 or jmulder@syracuse.com
Welch and Pennington were overheard calling the victims two little bitches several years after the crime, according to an arrest affidavit filed in April 2018. Witnesses also said the men said that if they wouldnt have taken off running  they would still be alive.

After the girls were captured, they were tied up with a rope Pennington and Welch had taken from Danny and Kathys bedroom and socks were stuffed into their mouths.

Busick said they came back to the farm to check on the fire, Stansill said. I believe when they returned to the scene it was in the dark-colored sedan and this was when the insurance card fell out of the vehicle.

Dannys remains were found the next day beside the waterbed by Lauria Bibles parents, Jay and Lorene Bible. The Bible family had been searching through debris and rubble, when they stumbled onto Dannys body, guarded by his pet Rottweiler.

Court documents show the teens were taken to a mobile home in Picher, where they were bound, tortured, raped and killed, and their bodies were thrown in a mine pit. Stansill believes the girls were alive for two weeks.
Consumer Reports has no financial relationship with advertisers on this site.

Earlier this year, state and federal researchers reported finding a new, potentially dangerous chemical in soil samples from multiple locations in New Jersey. The compound was a form of PFAS, a group of more than 5,000 chemicals that has raised concerns in recent years because of their potential link to learning delays in children and cancer, as well as their tendency to last in the environment for a long time.

But the new revelations, reported in the June issue of Science magazine, stoked concerns among water-quality researchers and advocacy groups for other reasons, too. It underscored how easy it is for manufacturers to phase out their use of PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances) once the substances have been regulated, and replace them with newer, related compounds that researchers know even less about. And it showed how difficult it is for regulators to track and oversee these new compounds.

The authors of the Science report, from the Environmental Protection Agency and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), identified the West Deptford, N.J., plant of a company called Solvay Specialty Polymers USA, a division of the Belgian chemical giant Solvay S.A., as the likely source of the contamination.

Solvay, in a statement to CR, denies its responsible.

But Solvay has been cited by the New Jersey DEP in the past for contamination of soil and water with an older, now-regulated PFAS compound. And the company has used a replacement PFAS at the facility for years, despite having not implemented an official way for regulators or independent researchers to analyze whether the new compound is present in the environment, according to documents obtained by Consumer Reports through a public records request.

Through that request, CR sought documents and communications between Solvay and the agency that were related to the chemicals identified in the Science study, and received more than 240 pages of filings that highlight the companys use of a PFAS replacement at its facility.

Story continues

The records shed light on the struggle that regulators in New Jersey face in identifying the environmental risks posed at the Solvay plant, as well as the ongoing debate between both sides over how to remediate the companys substitute compound and limit new types of PFAS from being used in the future.

The New Jersey DEP tells CR it believes Solvay is using one or more of the replacement compounds identified in the Science study at the companys facility. The replacements are expected to have toxicity and other properties similar to currently regulated PFAS compounds, the agency says. The DEP declined to answer questions about whether Solvays replacement compounds have been detected in public water supplies.

The DEP will continue to use the best science available to evaluate emerging contaminants to protect New Jerseys public health and environment, the DEP says.

Environmental and health advocates say that because it takes years to assess the risk of chemicals like Solvays new substitute, PFAS should be regulated as a group, with new compounds subject to the same regulations as previously identified ones.

The American Chemistry Council, an industry group, objects to that idea, saying that each compound is different, so the compounds should be regulated individually.

Erik Olson, senior strategic director of health and food at the Natural Resources Defense Council, an environmental organization, says that approach is impractical and unnecessary. We dont want to continue on this toxic treadmill, he says, where one PFAS chemical is phased out only to be replaced by one of literally thousands of others that have similar chemical structures and can reasonably be expected to pose similar environmental and health risks.

A Fraught History

Until 2010, Solvay had used a PFAS compound at its New Jersey manufacturing facility called PFNA (perfluorononanoic acid), which preliminary research indicates may be linked to immune system and liver problems. A year earlier, New Jerseys DEP detected the contaminant in public water supplies in Paulsboro, a community near the plant. The New Jersey DEP now attributes continued PFNA contamination around the facility to Solvay.

The company retained a licensed remediation expert to assess that claim, and says it has spent more than $25 million in the process. In April, the company told the DEP that it remains committed to investigating and remediating PFNA impacts attributed to the West Deptford facility, according to records obtained by CR.

But the company steadfastly denies responsibility for all PFNA contamination. In an April 21 letter to the DEP, Solvay alleges the department has maintained a long-held erroneous belief that the company is responsible for all PFNA contamination near its facility, and points to what it says are other possible nearby sources, including a former manufacturing site and a fire-training academy that uses firefighting foam, a known source of PFAS.

DEP has yet to act on this information, either to investigate and remediate these PFAS discharges itself, or to require the dischargers to do so, the company claims.

The DEP declined to comment about Solvays claim. But the agency has previously said Solvays science does not support the conclusion that alternative sources are to blame for PFNA contamination.

In 2018, New Jersey adopted strict limits on how much PFNA can be present in drinking water. And a year later, the state directed multiple companies, including Solvay, to address PFAS contamination in the state. The state claims in the directive that Solvay knew it was discharging large amounts of PFNA into the environment from the facility at least as early as 1991. The company, the state alleges, knew or should have known of the adverse effects of PFNA exposure because an industry group of which it is a member had conducted toxicology studies in the 2000s.

The Next Struggle

While New Jersey and Solvay continue to battle over the companys history with PFNA, state regulators are actively working to assess the risk of Solvays replacement PFAS and to set conditions for its use.

New Jersey asked Solvay last December to cover costs for investigating the safety of its replacement PFAS (referred to as Solvays product) and how to remediate it, according to the April letter Solvay sent to the DEP. The company balked.

The reason? No official remediation standards for the new compound are yet approved, the company says, so it cannot be legally required to pay for the work. Nor has the state approved an official analytical method to detect the compound in environmental samples.

The dispute puts the state in a tough predicament: How can it approve a testing method or remediation standard for a compound it knows little about?

Dave Andrews, senior scientist at the advocacy organization Environmental Working Group, doesnt think determining the methodology should be the states job. Andrews co-authored a June letter on PFAS regulations to the journal Environmental Science & Technology, arguing that PFAS compounds should be managed as a class.

Companies that manufacture and produce PFAS compounds should be required to both develop sensitive methods for detecting their compounds in the environment and provide analytical standards to researchers, he says.

Solvay tells CR its currently working with a lab to develop analytical methodologies for testing its replacement compound.

More recently, after meeting with New Jerseys DEP to discuss how to develop methods for determining the safety of Solvays PFAS replacement and to test for those compounds in the environment, Solvay proposed a legally binding judicial decree to address the use of its replacement PFAS, the April 2020 letter says.

New Jersey declined Solvays offer, writing in a June 22 letter that the company failed to detail concrete steps Solvay is willing to take to proactively and aggressively bring itself into compliance with New Jerseys environmental laws and standards.

Unfortunately, the letter says, while the Department appreciates Solvays efforts, the response lacks a specificity of commitment to convince the Department that further active negotiations will be fruitful.

Among other things, the state says Solvay refused to address contamination of public and private water supplies that the DEP determined were affected by the companys PFAS compounds, how to eliminate and dispose of PFAS discharges, and whether it would agree to conditions to introduce new replacement compounds going forward.

Andrews, at the Environmental Working Group, says that the states response indicates it is unwilling to allow Solvay to walk away from the mess they created and must take significant action, including paying for cleanup of contamination already in the environment and the elimination of future contamination.

Solvay says it cant comment on its discussions with the state. However, Solvay continues to respond to information requests by NJDEP and fully intends to maintain an active and ongoing dialogue with the Department, as we have since 2013, the company says. It also says that it has provided toxicology reports and safety data on the replacement product to the New Jersey DEP and the EPA for review.

The New Jersey DEP declined to release that data to CR, citing state law that prohibits the release of records deemed trade secrets. And a spokesperson for the EPA says it has no such studies from Solvay, which didnt respond to requests for comment on the apparent discrepancy.

A Call for Transparency

Consumers can try to address PFAS contamination in their home by having their drinking water tested, installing a reverse osmosis water filter if PFAS is found, and avoiding productssuch as stain-resistant fabrics, microwave popcorn bags, and nonstick cooking pansknown to contain the compounds.

But experts say that because only regulators and industry have insight into the potential risks of Solvays productor any new PFAS replacementconsumers should demand that relevant information be publicly disclosed, not kept guarded as a company trade secret.

Information related to chemical risk should not be held as confidential business information, says Alissa Cordner, co-director of the PFAS Project at Northeastern University in Boston.

The New Jersey DEP says that Solvay has claimed that all documents pertaining to its PFAS replacement are confidential business information. But the agency has notified Solvay that it does not believe certain information provided by the company qualifies for that status. As both sides sort through Solvays ongoing confidentiality requests in private, the DEP remains prevented from releasing additional documents to CR.

Brian Ronholm, CRs director of food policy, says that if Solvay has toxicology and safety data on the new product, the company should release it for independent researchers to review.

From a public health standpoint, Solvay has an obligation to be as transparent as possible, Ronholm says. Any attempts to deflect the issue should put consumers on alert.

Theres always an alternative option: New Jersey regulations (PDF) allow for the immediate release of the safety recordsas long as Solvay consents to disclosure.

But the company didnt respond to questions from CR about whether it would agree to release the information. CR has appealed the DEPs withholding of the safety data.

The availability of so many substitute PFAS chemicals creates a significant burden for regulators, Ronholm says. Thats why its imperative for them to be aggressive in holding companies accountable.

Americas Water Crisis

Consumer Reports has a long history of investigating Americas water. In 1974, we published a landmark three-part series (PDF) revealing that water purification systems in many communities had not kept pace with increasing levels of pollution and that many community water supplies might be contaminated. Our work helped lead to Congress enacting the Safe Drinking Water Act in December 1974.

More than 45 years later, America is still struggling with a dangerous divide between those who have access to safe and affordable drinking water and those who dont. Communities of color often are affected disproportionately by this inequity. Consumer Reports remains committed to exposing the weaknesses in our countrys water system, including raising questions about Americans reliance on bottled water as an alternativeand the safety and sustainability implications of this dependence.

In addition to our ongoing investigations into bottled water, we are proud to be partnering with our readers and those of the Guardian US, another institution dedicated to journalism in the public interest, to test for dangerous contaminants in tap water samples from more than 100 communities around the country. The Guardian and CR will also be publishing related content from Ensia, a nonprofit newsroom focused on environmental issues and solutions.

Americas Water Crisis is the name we are jointly giving to this project and the series of articles we co-publish on the major challenges many in the U.S. face getting access to safe, clean, and affordable water. We will share the results of our upcoming test findings with you. In the meantime, you can join our social media conversation around water under the hashtag #waterincrisis.

Gwendolyn Bounds

Chief Content Officer, Consumer Reports
Mumbai: Screenwriter-lyricist Varun Grover on Thursday revealed he has recovered from coronavirus, two weeks after contracting the virus. In a blog detailing his diagnosis, experience in isolation and subsequent recovery process, the Sacred Games writer said he contracted COVID-19 even after strictest of precautions. Grover, 40, said he was diagnosed coronavirus positive after undergoing an antigen test at a testing camp set up by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) in their housing society on September 15. While, his partner, Raj Kumari, tested negative.

The writer-comic immediately went into complete isolation at his apartment and started medication, he said. I am happy to announce that I have now recovered from COVID-19  a full 14 days after testing positive and 19 days after the onset of (mild and slightly unusual) symptoms, Grover wrote in the blog he shared on Twitter. The National Award-winning lyricist, who was being super careful, said he had stepped out for weekly grocery shopping on September 9, after a gap of 10 days, and started feeling mild symptoms  cold, stuffed nose, weakness, lack of hunger- the next morning. Grover added that his sense of smell had completely vanished by September 16, a day after his diagnosis.

It was only 10 days later that his sense of smell started returning gradually and the writer said though its not hundred per cent back, his condition is improving day by day. Summing up, I never had fever, scratchiness in the throat, diarrhoea, or breathing difficulties through the entire run of the virus. The worst symptoms I had were a combination of weakness, cold (runny or stuffed nose), and uneasy stomach. It lasted for a day and faded away gradually, he said.

Grover said he didnt plan to keep his diagnosis secret but the initial days were a mix of panic, figuring out medication and setting the processes in place. The multihyphenate personality said he was gripped with extreme anxiety when he was diagnosed.

The symptoms were mild but the future was uncertain. The feeling is surreal  to know that the pandemic you have been reading about and trying to avoid obsessively for the last six months is inside your body, he added. What if Raj Kumari also tests positive and both of us are forced to hospitalize? Who will take care of our cats? he recalled. Grover described COVID-19 as a complicated illness as the patient has to double down on discipline and ensure they dont infect others. Which means very limited and strictly protected contact with the caregiver  and that makes it a very lonely battle against a very unpredictable virus.

In that sense, its also a very bureaucratic illness  the days of recovery are spent in a long list of detailed, repetitive processes, he added.
TORONTO, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ - Russel Metals Inc. (TSX: RUS) today gave notice to redeem $150 million principal amount of its 6.00% senior unsecured notes due April 19, 2022 (the "Notes") on November 5, 2020, at a price equal to 100% of the aggregate principal amount of the Notes to be redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon to the date on which they are redeemed. This redemption represents half of the original $300 million principal amount of the Notes and will be financed through cash on hand and borrowings under the company's credit facility.

Martin L. Juravsky, Executive Vice President and CFO commented, "This redemption, in combination with the recent extension and update of the company's credit facility, will substantially reduce Russel's interest expense while maintaining strong ongoing liquidity."

About Russel Metals

Russel Metals is one of the largest metals distribution companies in North America. It carries on business in three metals distribution segments: metals service centers, energy products and steel distributors. Its network of metals service centers carries an extensive line of metal products in a wide range of sizes, shapes and specifications, including carbon hot rolled and cold finished steel, pipe and tubular products, stainless steel, aluminum and other non-ferrous specialty metals. Its energy products operations carry a specialized product line focused on the needs of energy industry customers. Its steel distributors operations act as master distributors selling steel in large volumes to other steel service centers and large equipment manufacturers mainly on an "as is" basis.

If you would like to unsubscribe from receiving Press Releases, you may do so by emailing [email protected]; or by calling our Investor Relations Line: 905-816-5178.

Web site: www.russelmetals.com

SOURCE Russel Metals Inc.

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The fund will make investments in enterprises with robust growth potential in sectors such as education, health care, manufacturing, and services

The European Investment Bank (EIB) has signed a commitment of $22 million with LCP FUND II COOPERATF U.A., a private equity fund that primarily targets growth capital investments in small and medium-sized enterprises and mid-market companies in Egypt.

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) also announced on Thursday it will invest $50 million in the same fund.

At the first closing in September, the fund attracted $140 million in commitments from the EBRD, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Proparco (a development financial institution owned by the French development agency and private shareholders from the developed countries and developing countries) and the Egyptian American Enterprise Fund, the EIB said in a statement.

It added that the fund manager, LCP FUND MANAGER BV, will adopt a hands-on value-adding investment strategy and will seek to invest in enterprises with robust growth potential in important economic sectors, including education, health care, manufacturing, and services.

The fund seeks to contribute to the development of the private sector in Egypt by increasing access to capital for domestic SMEs and mid-market companies and supporting their growth and continued institutionalisation.

In addition, the funds portfolio companies are anticipated to contribute to robust job creation, according to the statement.

The EIBs action comes in the framework of its Economic Resilience Initiative Risk Capital Facility (ERI RCF) and seeks to foster private sector development and job creation through investments in venture capital and private equity funds, according to the statement.

Additionally, it blends EIBs own resources with donors resources to unlock more opportunities for the private sector in the southern Mediterranean region.

The EBRD said in a statement on Thursday that the fund is targeting total commitments of $250 million.

The EIB is the long-term lending institution of the European Union and aims to make long-term finance available for sound investment in order to contribute towards EU policy goals.

The Risk Capital Facility for the Southern Neighbourhood countries, which include Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria and the West Bank and Gaza, was set up by the European Commission and the EIB and provides access to equity and debt financing to SMEs in the Mediterranean region in order to support private sector development, inclusive growth and private sector job creation.

The main activities of the facility include investing in private equity funds, investing in and lending to microfinance institutions and microfinance investment vehicles, and providing technical assistance to financial intermediaries (private equity funds, microfinance institutions, microfinance investment vehicles, banks and other financial institutions) or final beneficiaries.

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Ilias Biologics Inc. (previously Cellex Life Sciences, Inc.), a Daejeon, South Korea-based exosome-based therapeutics company, completed a Series B financing round of $20.6m.

The initial investors from the Series A round, HB Investment, Timefolio Asset Management, and Daedeok Venture Partners joined this round with follow-on investment. The new institutional investors, including Asset One, Devsisters Ventures, Meritz Securities, Kiwoom Securities, Daishin Securities, Hanyang Securities/Yeolim Partners, and Genie Asset Management joined this round along with a small number of private investors.

Ilias has raised a total of $40.2m of capital since its foundation in November 2015.

This financing will support the continued development of the companys proprietary EXPLOR (Exosome engineering for Protein Loading via Optically Reversible proteinprotein interaction) platform technology and the advancement of exosome-based therapeutics pipeline. Ilias recently published promising preclinical data on its lead therapeutic candidate, ILB-202, in Science Advances, and secured a key exosome engineering patent from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in July. While the company plans to submit the IND application to U.S. FDA and initiate the first-in-human clinical trial by the 2nd half of 2021 targeting an undisclosed acute inflammatory disease, it is also in active discussion with multiple pharmaceutical companies for potential research collaborations.

EXPLOR technology is a novel protein-loading method that enables free form loading of large therapeutic cargo proteins into the lumen of exosomesnanosized, cell-derived extracellular vesiclesby genetically engineering the producing cell lines. While exosomes have been actively studied as novel therapeutic vehicles for intracellular drug delivery, the controllable loading of therapeutic cargo proteins as a free form in the exosomal lumen has remained a technical hurdle.

The companys technology provides a solution to overcome this challenge and increase the efciency of therapeutic protein delivery into the intracellular component of target cells.

Led by Dr. Chulhee Choi, CEO, Ilias Biologics is currently developing various pipelines including inflammatory diseases and oncology. The company has been recently finalizing the underwriter contract with securities companies, planning for an IPO to KOSDAQ (Korea Securities Dealers and Automated Quotation) in Q1 2022.

FinSMEs

01/10/2020
DALLAS, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Comerica Bank's Michigan Economic Activity Index increased in July to a level of 95.1. July's reading was 8 points or 10 percent higher than the cyclical low. The index averaged 117.7 points for all of 2019, 0.9 points below the index average for 2018. June's index reading was revised to 86.7.

Our state economic activity indexes all showed a rebound in economic activity in July. The rebound is dampened somewhat because of the smoothing process that we use to reduce the volatility inherent in some regional economic data. We expect to see an ongoing strong rebound in the August state economic activity indexes. In July, eight out of nine sub-indexes were positive for Michigan. This was the strongest performance since last February when all nine components showed gains. The positive contributors for July were nonfarm payrolls, unemployment insurance claims (inverted), housing starts, industrial electricity demand, light vehicle production, total state trade, hotel occupancy and state sales tax revenue. Only the house price sub-index was negative for the month. Michigan, along with many other states, saw an uptick in coronavirus cases in September. This represents a significant downside risk factor for the state economy this fall and winter. Increasing cases in other states also represents a risk factor for Michigan to the extent that they are a weight on auto sales. Light vehicle sales were stable in July and August, near a 15.0 million unit rate, well below the peak 18.7 million unit sales rate from August 2019. California has just announced that they will ban sales of new gasoline powered cars in 2035. This will add to the push toward electrification of the industry, which will result in a significant reduction in the amount of labor needed per vehicle assembly.

The Michigan Economic Activity Index consists of nine variables, as follows: nonfarm payroll employment, continuing claims for unemployment insurance, housing starts, house price index, industrial electricity sales, auto assemblies, total trade, hotel occupancy and sales tax revenue. All data are seasonally adjusted. Nominal values have been converted to constant dollar values. Index levels are expressed in terms of three-month moving averages.

Comerica Incorporated (NYSE: CMA) is a financial services company headquartered in Dallas, Texas, and strategically aligned by three business segments: The Commercial Bank, The Retail Bank, and Wealth Management. Comerica focuses on relationships, and helping people and businesses be successful. In addition to Texas, Comerica Bank locations can be found in Arizona, California, Florida and Michigan, with select businesses operating in several other states, as well as in Canada and Mexico. Comerica reported total assets of $84 billion at June 30, 2020.

To subscribe to our publications or for questions, contact us at [email protected]. Archives are available at http://www.comerica.com/insights. Follow us on Twitter: @Comerica_Econ.

SOURCE Comerica Bank

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Nearly four months ago, Gov. Charlie Baker signed an emergency COVID-19 bill that required more detailed data on who was hit hardest in the pandemic, including numbers on a COVID-positive persons job, primary language and disability status.

Much of that data on people who have tested positive for COVID-19, meant to help health care experts better detect patterns and disparities, remains missing as of Thursday.

The latest batch, reported Wednesday, shows the state is missing occupational information on patients in more than 84% of positive COVID-19 tests since July 1, after the data collection bill was signed into law. More than 91% of the breakdown of positive tests by primary language is missing.

About 10% of the data on ethnicity and nearly 25% of the data on the race of people who test positive are missing.

When looking back at the data dating back to the start of the pandemic in March, a much larger portion of race, language and occupational data remains missing. And no data is published on whether people who tested positive have a disability.

Chapter 93 requires the collection of data by industry, by occupation, said Carlene Pavlos, executive director of the Massachusetts Public Health Association. Thats just a shocking amount of missing data, and were not able to understand anything about the pattens about where people are getting sick.

Most people who are asked about their occupation when getting tested for COVID-19 dont seem hesitant to answer.

Of the 2.8 million COVID-19 tests conducted between July 1 and Sept. 29, the patients refused to disclose their occupation in less than 1% of the tests, according to the Ch. 93 data.

The exact number of refusals falls somewhere between 38 and 152 of the COVID-19 tests during that time frame. The state has only recorded 0 or fewer than five refusals since March 10.

Labs reported people refusing to provide occupation information in less than 1% of all COVID-19 tests administered between March 10 and July 1 as well.

Health and Human Services Secretary Marylou Sudders, who is also leading the states COVID-19 Command Center, said Tuesday the Baker administration warned that the state would need months to comply with the emergency law.

If youve looked at the data, weve continued to increase the data fields that have been reported on, we will continue to comply with it, but anyone who has worked with system changes know you cant just immediately put into place the systems and technology upgrades you need, Sudders said during a news briefing in response to a reporters question.

While the governor signed the bill into law, she said, he also filed a bill that would authorize the Department of Public Health to fine entities up to $2,000 a day for failing to provide the data required by law. Among other things, it would also exempt independent senior living complexes from data reporting requirements.

One of the things we said in the legislation we filed, which we would love to get, was that there is an onus, Gov. Charlie Baker said Tuesday. He called fines a much more effective tool to get the folks who actually have to give us the data to actually give us the data.

In recent weeks, Baker has said the source of most clusters appear to be private gatherings, rather than occupational hazards. There have been some notable exceptions, most recently an outbreak at Brigham and Womens Hospital in Boston.

Most of our new cases, most of our clusters have involved unstructured, non rule-based gatherings, celebrations, parties that have taken place between and among people where there arent any rules," the Republican governor said. Part of what I think were trying to do here is recognize and understand that in many states, an emphasis on organized gatherings, organized play, organized indoor activity has actually not translated in those places into a significant increase in cases, but exactly the opposite."

Baker has cited findings from contact tracers, but theres no publicly available data that identifies the presumed source of COVID-19 spread even after contact tracers find it. The statutorily required information  data on the primary languages COVID-positive people speak or their jobs  is so underreported that public health experts say they cannot use it to verify or dispel any concerns about who is prone to exposure and where.

When the state is suggesting it isnt work sites that are points of the outbreak, it would be helpful to have some transparency in what they are seeing in the data. That is certainly something were not getting, Pavlos said.

Massachusetts has not been immune to work-related COVID-19 transmissions. In April and May, scores of Walmart employees tested positive for the virus at the companys Worcester, Quincy, Avon and Abington stores. One Quincy employee, Yok Yen Lee, died.

A report released in September by the Massachusetts Coalition for Occupational Safety and Health and the AFL-CIO union estimates 59 people have died from coronavirus-linked complications after potential exposure at work. At least 1,350 workers across 12 unions tested positive for the coronavirus, although those are not confirmed, but rather suspected to be work-related cases.

Also referenced in the report are the thousands of work-related complaints about COVID-19 enforcement to various state and federal agencies. At least 313 workplace complaints were made to Attorney General Maura Healeys office that alleged employers failed to make symptomatic workers stay home between May and August.

While Baker says private gatherings are COVID-19 magnets, some residents are more vulnerable to workplace exposure because they are essential workers, and the risk compounds if theyre returning home to multi-generational homes or crowded units in densely populated cities.

Black, Latinx and Asian people are more likely to work in essential jobs and on the front lines than white residents. That puts them at higher risk of workplace exposure to the virus, according to the report.

In early September, Latinx residents made up 12% of the population but 30% of positive cases. Black residents made up 7% of the population but 14% of COVID-19 cases. In elder care facilities, 37% of the workers who died were Black, according to the report.

Disparities were especially high in cities that are predominantly Black and brown, such as Chelsea or the Mattapan, Hyde Park, Dorchester and East Boston sections of Boston, that have high numbers of essential workers.

These statistics cited in MassCOSHs report, however, point to correlations compiled through surveys, news articles and complaints databases. Its unclear how many people of color were exposed to COVID-19 through work. The lack of occupation and race/ethnicity data that the state is required by law to publish only makes it harder for researchers and labor rights advocates to easily track correlations and look into why they exist, said Jodi Sugerman-Brozan, executive director of MassCOSH.

For me, work is a key way in which the pandemic is spreading, Sugerman-Brozan said. By not understanding the occupation, industry or employer  we are missing a huge piece of information that would allow us to better identify trends, protect workers and prioritize [worker protections].

While the state is required to track occupation and other information, not everyone fills it out, Sugerman-Brozan said.

When asked about the gaps, Sudders said the Baker administration warned the Legislature that it would take three to four months for health officials to update the data even though the COVID-19 law took effect immediately.

Health and Human Services Secretary Marylou Sudders, who is also head of the COVID-19 Command Center, takes questions from reporters Sept. 29 at the Massachusetts State House.Sam Doran/State House News Service

Baker went on to sign the bill into law with a clear understanding that we were unable to immediately comply, Sudders said.

There wasnt a conference committee for this bill, and it is unclear which key legislators were warned of a three to four month delay. The Executive Office of Health and Human Services did not respond to questions about who was notified.

Rep. Ruth Balser, the lead sponsor in the House who focused on data collection for elder facilities, said she never spoke with Sudders or the Baker administration about the law. The Newton Democrat said she wasnt told to expect a delay.

House Speaker Robert DeLeos office did not say whether he was told about the delay. His office said in a statement, it is up to the administration to implement the law.

Senate President Karen Spilkas office didnt immediately respond to an inquiry.

Sen. Julian Cyr, the lead Senate sponsor, did not answer a question about whether he was warned about a delay., but he noted in a statement that issues with the public health system and data collection were known well before the pandemic.

The fragmented nature of local health and various electronic health records mean that it can be difficult to get consistent health surveillance data in all areas, the Truro Democrat said in a statement. In crafting the legislation, we aimed to capture as much data as possible to inform the commonwealths ongoing response to COVID-19 ... Our expectation is the Baker-Polito Administration will provide as much data as possible given inherent limitations."

Related Content:
Leaked internal Department of Homeland Security talking points have revealed that federal law enforcement officials were directed to make sympathetic comments about Kenosha teen gunman Kyle Rittenhouse if publicly asked about the shootings.

The talking points, obtained by NBC News, were given to Homeland Security officials to prepare them for possible questions from the media after the 17-year-old was charged with shooting dead two protesters in Kenosha, Wisconsin last month.

It is not clear if the leaked talking points came from the White House or from Homeland Security's press office.

The emergence of the document came as Rittenhouse's attorneys said they planned to sue Joe Biden and his campaign for libel after the Democratic candidate tweeted a video clip that suggested the teenager is a white supremacist.

The leaked document, which Homeland Security refused to comment on, suggests that officials point to the fact that Rittenhouse 'took his rifle to the scene of the rioting to help defend small business owners'.

The talking points were given to Homeland Security officials to prepare them for possible questions from the media after Kyle Rittenhouse, 17, was charged with shooting dead two protesters in Kenosha, Wisconsin last month

It also suggests that Rittenhouse was acting in self-defense when he opened fire, which is the main argument the teenager's attorneys have put forward in fighting the charges against him.

'Kyle was seen being chased and attacked by rioters before allegedly shooting three of them, killing two,' the document's talking points say.

'Subsequent video has emerged reportedly showing that there were 'multiple gunmen' involved, which would lend more credence to the self-defense claims.'

The documents also instructed to tell reporters, if asked, that they couldn't comment on pending investigations.

Instead, officials were directed to say: 'What I will say is that Rittenhouse, just like everyone else in America, is innocent until proven guilty and deserves a fair trial based on all the facts, not just the ones that support a certain narrative. This is why we try the accused in the court of law, not the star chamber of public opinion.'

Among the other talking points was a reference for the need to restore law and order.

Rittenhouse, who is from Illinois, is currently fighting extradition to Wisconsin where he is charged with shooting dead two protesters and injuring another. He is pictured during a virtual court hearing in Illinois last week

Homeland's acting deputy secretary, Ken Cuccinelli, did not appear to use the talking points last month when he tweeted that cases like the one involving Rittenhouse were complicated

Attorneys for Kenosha shooter Kyle Rittenhouse say they will sue Joe Biden and his campaign for LIBEL Attorneys for Kenosha gunman Kyle Rittenhouse have announced they plan to sue Joe Biden and his campaign for libel after the presidential candidate tweeted a video suggesting the teenager is a white supremacist. Lin Wood, who is representing the 17-year-old shooter, said he is taking steps to demand a formal 'public retraction' from the Biden/Harris campaign shortly after the former VP shared the clip. The 50-second video showed a mashup of scenes from white supremacist rallies and far-right groups across the country as debate moderator Chris Wallace is heard asking Trump if he is willing to condemn the racist organizations. The clip also includes a shot of Rittenhouse holding a rifle during the Kenosha protests, where is accused of fatally shooting two demonstrators. 'There's no other way to put it: the President of the United States refused to disavow white supremacists on the debate stage last night,' Biden said. Wood tweeted: '[A] formal demand for public retraction is being prepared for Biden/Harris Campaign on behalf of Kyle Rittenhouse. I also hereby demand that [Joe Biden] immediately retract his false accusation that Kyle is a white supremacist & militia member responsible for violence in Kenosha.' Advertisement

'This is also why we need to stop the violence in our cities. Chaotic and violent situations lead to chaotic, violent and tragic outcomes. Everyone needs law and order,' the document said.

Homeland's acting deputy secretary, Ken Cuccinelli, did not appear to use the talking points last month when he tweeted: 'While as Americans we are naturally antsy and want things concluded quickly, cases like this show the complexities involved in an investigation and why it can take some time to reach conclusions.'

President Donald Trump has previously sympathized with Rittenhouse by saying publicly that the teen appeared to be 'trying to get away' from the protesters he shot dead.

Rittenhouse, who is from Illinois, is currently fighting extradition to Wisconsin where he is charged with shooting dead two protesters and injuring another.

It comes as Rittenhouse's attorneys announced they planned to sue Joe Biden and his campaign for libel after the presidential candidate tweeted a video suggesting the teenager is a white supremacist.

Attorney Lin Wood said he is taking steps to demand a formal 'public retraction' from the Biden/Harris campaign shortly after the former vice president shared the clip on Twitter.

The 50-second video showed a mashup of scenes from white supremacist rallies and far-right groups across the country as debate moderator Chris Wallace is heard asking Trump if he is willing to condemn the racist organizations.

The clip also includes a shot of Rittenhouse holding a rifle during the Kenosha protests.

'There's no other way to put it: the President of the United States refused to disavow white supremacists on the debate stage last night,' Biden said.

Wood tweeted: '[A] formal demand for public retraction is being prepared for Biden/Harris Campaign on behalf of Kyle Rittenhouse. I also hereby demand that [Joe Biden] immediately retract his false accusation that Kyle is a white supremacist & militia member responsible for violence in Kenosha.

'On behalf of Kyle Rittenhouse, I shall sue Joe Biden & Biden/Harris Campaign for libel.

Rittenhouse is charged with first-degree intentional homicide in the killing of two protesters: Joseph Rosenbaum (left) and Anthony Huber (right)

Video shows that Rittenhouse tripped in the street before 26-year-old Anthony Huber hit him with a skateboard and tried to take his rifle away. Rittenhouse opened fire, killing Huber

Rittenhouse then shot and injured Gaige Grosskreutz, who was holding a handgun at the time, as he approached the teenager

'I am partisan in 20/20 supporting [Donald Trump.] I am non-partisan trial lawyer who aggressively pursues truth to achieve justice. Put in your hearing aid, Joe. You will hear footsteps,' he added in a follow-up tweet.

Rittenhouse is charged with first-degree intentional homicide in connection to the deaths of Joseph Rosenbaum and Anthony Huber, during a night of unrest in Kenosha on August 25.

He is also charged with wounding a third demonstrator, Gaige Grosskreutz.

His attorneys have said Rittenhouse acted in self-defense and have portrayed him as a courageous patriot who was exercising his right to bear arms during a night of protests over the police shooting of black man Jacob Blake.

Rittenhouse, who was arrested in his hometown of Antioch, participated in a virtual hearing last Friday at the Lake County Circuit Court in Illinois from the detention facility where he is being held.

Lawyer John Pierce told the judge he planned to fight the request by Kenosha prosecutors that Rittenhouse be transferred to Wisconsin to face charges.

The judge, Paul Novak, gave 14 days for the defense to review papers and file pleadings ahead of an October 9 hearing.

Pierce asked for a month to prepare arguments challenging extradition that he said involve 'issues of some complexity, frankly that have not arisen in the country for some time'.

Rittenhouse's attorneys announced they planned to sue Joe Biden and his campaign for libel after the presidential candidate tweeted a video suggesting the teenager is a white supremacist
With Election Day only weeks away, the Biden-Harris ticket is ramping up the identity politics. The way they see it, President Trump is the hate-inciting racist, and the Democrats are swooping in to save the day.

This was on full display in last night's debate. Not only did Joe Biden call President Trump a "racist," which is unprecedented for presidential politics, but he also railed on and on about "systemic injustice" without providing examples. At the same time, Biden remained reluctant to denounce the left-wing violence lighting America's cities on fire, struggling to even say the words "law and order."

Biden's running mate, Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.), is even more blunt. She recently accused President Trump of "sowing hate and division in our country" (again, without providing examples) while vowing to "speak about systemic racism." She also promised to incorporate "Black Lives Matter" (BLM) messaging into the Biden campaign.

To her credit, Harris is at least walking the race-baiter's walk: she has supported the bailouts of Minnesota rioters and looters, essentially emboldening violent criminals to continue wreaking havoc on their communities. The California senator endorsed the Minnesota Freedom Fund (MFF), which prides itself on bailing out those violent criminals in the name of social justice. In recent months, MFF financially supported Darnika Floyd, who was charged with second-degree murder after allegedly stabbing a friend to death, and Christopher Boswell, who is facing charges of sexual assault and kidnapping. The group put up $100,000 on Floyd's behalf and $350,000 for Boswell, funded in part by Biden staffers.

Digging an even deeper hole for herself, Harris met with Jacob Blake's family in Wisconsin, claiming to be "proud" of Blake. Remember: this is the same Jacob Blake who had a warrant out for his arrest for violating a restraining order due to an alleged sexual assault. (Apparently, "Black Lives Matter" propaganda trumps the #MeToo movement in 2020.) It is also the same Jacob Blake who resisted arrest and reached for a knife in his car before being shot by police.

Nevertheless, race-baiters like Harris won't let facts get in the way of identity politics. When two Los Angeles police officers were ambushed and shot in her home state, she was nowhere to be found.

On the other side, President Trump has denounced race-related violence since day one, urging Americans to protest peacefully. The Trump administration does not waffle when the radical left is clearly the villain, and law-abiding citizens are the clear victims. President Trump recently designated Antifa a terrorist organization, along with the Ku Klux Klan. In last night's debate, when asked to condemn white supremacy, President Trump responded unequivocally: "Sure, I'm willing to do that. I'm willing to do anything. I want to see peace."

The American people understand that  which bodes well for Republicans in 2020. According to a recent poll, most likely voters described the recent violence in America's largest cities as riots, not protests. At the same time, BLM's approval rating continues to dip, as their intentions and tactics become clearer and clearer.

Americans aren't stupid: when they see a small business being looted or a neighborhood going up in flames, they don't consider it a "peaceful protest."

Biden and Harris may play the race card, but most Americans can call a spade a spade. And so can President Trump, whose re-election chances improve each and every time his opponents enable the radical left.

Ted Harvey serves as chairman of the Committee to Defend the President.

Image: Biden-Harris 2020.
A former Army commander who stepped down in 2010 after mocking then-Vice President Joe Biden endorsed the Democratic nominee Thursday  at the same time George W. Bush's 2004 campaign manager also said he will not vote for President Donald Trump in November.

Retired General Stanley McChrystal told MSNBC's Joe Scarborough during 'Morning Joe' on Thursday that he will be voting for Biden despite his previous criticisms of him.

'I think my willingness to endorse him now should signal to people that there was a respectful relationship then, and just how important I think it is to replicate that kind of relationship between senior military leaders now,' McChrystal said.

'We have to believe in our values. You have to believe that your commander and chief, at the end of the day, is someone that you can trust, and I can trust Joe Biden,' McChrystal said.

McChrystal came under fire in 2010 after a Rolling Stone article quoted him as mocking Biden, among other top civilian officials.

Even though the general apologized to Biden, he was ultimately pushed to resign.

Retired Gen. Stanley McChrystal endorsed Joe Biden on Thursday. He told MSNBC's Joe Scarborough: 'We have to believe in our values. You have to believe that your commander and chief, at the end of the day, is someone that you can trust, and I can trust Joe Biden'

The endorsement comes despite the general stepping down in 2010 after he mocked then-Vice President Joe Biden

At the same time, George W. Bush's 2004 reelection campaign chairman Marc Racicot said he would not be voting for Donald Trump in November

'I worked most closely with President Obama and Vice President Biden when I commanded in Afghanistan, and I had policy differences at times,' McChrystal now reveals. 'But in every instance, they listened. In every instance, they took in my view.'

He continued: 'In every instance, I felt that they were trying to make the best decision based on all the information they had and based upon a bedrock of values.'

Marc Racicot, 72, who chaired George W. Bush's reelection campaign in 2004, said he will vote for Trump in November.

Racicot, who served as Montana's governor for two terms in the 1990s and as Republican National Committee chairman in 2002 and 2003, cited character flaws in President Trump when explaining how he will cast his ballot.

He made the statement during an interview Tuesday on Yellowstone Public Radio with Home Ground host Brian Kahn.

'I regret that I will cause consternation, perhaps, in some corners, but even as a Republican, I will not be supporting Donald Trump for president, and I will not be voting for him,' Racicot said during an interview with Yellowstone Public Radio on Tuesday.

'But at the end, the content of a man's character or a woman's character to serve in that capacity is more important than any other issue that I have to consider as a matter of conscience,' he told 'Home Ground' host Brian Kahn.

Racicot clarified that he still has policy disagreements with Biden and did not explicitly say if he will vote for the Democrat.

While Racicot says he did not vote for Trump in 2016, it is unclear if he did cast his ballot for Democrat Hillary Clinton.

He also said he has 'even more doubts' now than he did in the 2016 election.

Both men coming out against Trump comes as Tuesday's first presidential debate in Cleveland, Ohio was deemed 'chaotic' and a 'dumpster fire' as a general consensus was reached that neither candidate came out looking good.
Air Arabia, a leading low-cost carrier in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region, has announced plans to launch direct flights from its hub Sharjah to Uzbekistan capital Tashkent starting November 4.

Tashkent is known for its numerous fountains, pleasant parks, many museums and its mix of modern and Soviet-era architecture.

Air Arabia said customers can start booking their direct flights to Tashkent by visiting the Sharjah carrier's website or through travel agencies.-TradeArabia News Service
Expanded Scholarship! This scholarship is a proven way to help home care aides advance their careers, tell their stories of what caregiving means to them, and highlight the difference it has made in the lives of their patients. -William A. Dombi, President of NAHC

CellTrak, the provider of the industrys leading mobile point of care and field force management solution for home care, personal care, and hospice, announced today an expansion in their previously announced scholarship program with the National Association for Home Care & Hospice (NAHC).

The newly expanded scholarship program will provide additional funding opportunities for home health aides, during the COVID-19 crisis across the country, while supporting the recipients along their career journey.

This scholarship is a proven way to help home care aides advance their careers, tell their stories of what caregiving means to them, and highlight the difference it has made in the lives of their patients, says William A. Dombi, Esq., President of NAHC. America needs to hear from the people who provide care to our most vulnerable citizens."

November is National Home Care & Hospice Month, a time to celebrate and recognize the practice of home care, and all of the individuals who make it possible. Part of this month's planned celebrations include one week, November 8-14, focusing solely on home care aides. Home care aides are vital to our health system transformation and this newly expanded scholarship program will give even more recipients an opportunity to advance their careers within the industry.

Each week during November, two scholarships will be granted to deserving home care aides. During the week of November 8-14, Home Care Aide Week, two scholarships will be granted each day for a total of twenty, five hundred-dollar scholarships over the course of National Home Care & Hospice Month.

With the impact of COVID on our industry, we realized our commitment to the scholarship program for 2020 needed to be doubled, to 20 scholarships! In March, many of our home care aides found themselves forced to make tough choices, and yet they remained at the forefront of caring for our family and friends in their homes. Because of their dedication, we want to recognize and support their efforts in continuing a career path as a homecare hero! Andrew Kaboff, Founder of CellTrak

This is the first year a home care aide-specific scholarship program has been offered through the National Association for Home Care & Hospice. Aides awarded with scholarships will be announced in November 2020. If you are interested in nominating yourself or someone else for the scholarship program, please complete this form: https://www.celltrak.com/celltrak-home-care-aide-scholarship.

If you have any questions, please email aidescholarship@celltrak.com. All submissions must be made by October 30th, 2020.

About CellTrak

People receive exceptional health care in their home or community when their care providers use CellTraks mobile health care solution. Home care, home health and hospice/palliative care agencies in the US, Canada, and the UK deliver higher quality care, communicate more effectively, improve compliance, reduce costs, and increase productivity with CellTrak.

Today, CellTraks complete, integrated software-as-a-service solution supports over one million visits per week, facilitating care delivery and real-time field force management, automating data collection, and providing information for business and care optimization. It includes application formats for all types of caregivers that run on the leading mobile devices; portals for efficient, coordinated care delivery across the patient health care team; interfaces to EHRs and back office systems; and supports adoption and optimization across the agency. For more information, visit http://www.celltrak.com.

About National Association for Home Care & Hospice (NAHC)

NAHC is the voice of home care and hospice. NAHC represents the nations 33,000 home care and hospice providers, along with the more than two million nurses, therapists, and aides they employ. These caregivers provide vital services to Americans who are aged, disabled, and ill. Some 12 million patients depend on home care and hospice providers, who depend on NAHC for the best in advocacy, education, and information. NAHC is a trade association that helps its members maintain the highest standards of care. To learn more, visit http://www.nahc.org.
Like fingerprints, each persons ears are unique. Since most earbuds only come in a few generic sizes, its nearly impossible to get earbuds that fit perfectly. Logitechs Ultimate Ears brand wants to change this. Today, the company is unveiling its UE Fits, earbuds that instantly mold to fit each ear.

To size the earbuds, youll use the UE Fits app, which will trigger embedded LEDs. Lightform technology will harden the gel-filled tips to the contours of each ear. In less than 60 seconds, youll get custom-fit true wireless earbuds. This should make the UE Fits comfortable even after extended use and ensure that they wont plop out of your ears. The tight fit will also provide passive noise isolation to better block ambient noise.

Ultimate Ears' UE Fits

Before joining Logitech, Ultimate Ears was an in-ear monitor brand for pro musicians, so it has a lot of experience molding components to fit peoples ears. Its pretty remarkable that Ultimate Ears found a way to bring that technology to true wireless earbuds. The brands other recent products, like its Hyperboom Bluetooth speaker, have a strong track record, too.

The UE Fits are engineered with 10mm drivers to produce sound thats full, warm and detailed with tight and punchy bass. They offer eight hours of continuous listening on a single charge, and you can get up to 20 hours of playback with the charging case. They come in grey, lilac and navy.

Customers in the US can pre-order the earbuds now for an introductory price of $199.00, and they should ship this fall. They come with a 30-day trial and perfect fit guarantee.
THE WOODLANDS, Texas, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Huntsman Corporation (NYSE: HUN) will hold a conference call on Thursday, October 29, 2020, at 10:00 a.m. ET to discuss its third quarter 2020 financial results, which will be released at approximately 6:00 a.m. ET that day.

Webcast link:

https://78449.themediaframe.com/dataconf/productusers/hun/mediaframe/41067/indexl.html

Participant dial-in numbers: Domestic callers: (877) 402-8037 International callers: (201) 378-4913

The conference call will be accompanied by presentation slides that will be accessible via the webcast link and Huntsman's investor relations website, ir.huntsman.com. Upon conclusion of the call, the webcast replay will be accessible via Huntsman's website.

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


The provincial government said Wednesday it does not support a "unilateral declaration" from the Manitoba Metis Federation about running its own moose hunt this fall with its own conservation regulations.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 30/9/2020 (479 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The provincial government said Wednesday it does not support a "unilateral declaration" from the Manitoba Metis Federation about running its own moose hunt this fall with its own conservation regulations.

The federation said this week that Metis have been left out of any consultation on reopening moose hunting areas and will handle their own conservation efforts.

Starting Oct. 1, it said it will allow the harvest of bull moose on a limited basis in designated hunting areas through its own harvesting initiative. It will issue a limited number of unique moose tags to Metis hunting parties of no less than four, it said.

"The Metis government and the Metis laws of the harvest place a priority on conservation-minded harvesting," the federation said. It wants to co-operate with the province and noted that in 2011 they mutually agreed to close certain areas to hunting to rebuild the moose population.

Two years ago, Manitoba government surveys indicated moose populations in Porcupine Mountain and Duck Mountain were stable, and two per cent of the population, or 60 animals, could be harvested, the Metis federation said.

"We are now into the ninth year of closures and it is time for the harvest to continue in a monitored, responsible, collective manner," federation president David Chartrand said. "Indigenous Peoples rights to harvest for culture and food have constitutional priority over recreation hunters."

Metis' plans for the moose hunt are being made without legislative authority, enforcement mechanisms or consultation with Indigenous and non-Indigenous harvesters, government press secretary Miranda Dube said Wednesday.

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The province has a "long history of respectful consultations with First Nation and Metis communities in its role as the Crown ultimately responsible for the sustainable management of Manitobas wildlife," she wrote in an email.

Chartrand and Premier Brian Pallister, however, have had a fractious relationship, especially regarding the moose hunt. Comments attributed to Pallister in 2017 about a ban on night hunting possibly igniting a "race war" blew up in the media.

Dube said Wednesday that results from a big game aerial survey this year were shared with First Nation and Metis communities and non-Indigenous harvesters affected by conservation closures. Their feedback was sought. "Despite these conservation closures, moose populations have not recovered in these areas as quickly as initially anticipated," she said.

While the areas remain subject to a conservation closure, established through consultations and under the authority of the Wildlife Act, the province is allowing a limited harvest based on recent aerial population surveys that won't hurt the long-term moose population recovery, she said.

Manitoba is in the process of contacting eligible communities and organizations for the interim fall moose hunt, she said.

carol.sanders@freepress.mb.ca
SACRAMENTO, Calif., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- With five weeks to go until the November election, dialysis corporations are poised to spend even more to defeat this year's Proposition 23 than the record $110 million they shelled out two years ago against another measure to reform the dialysis industry, Proposition 8.

At this stage of the campaign, the industry already has spent more money and amassed a war chest that is bigger than two years ago. Once again the industry has shown a willingness to spend massive amounts to protect its outsized profits in California, a total of nearly $600 million in earnings in the most recent reporting year, 2018.

"There they go again," said Ida Panell, a dialysis patient at Satellite Healthcare in San Francisco. "All Prop. 23 does is ask the industry to direct more of its profits to improving the clinics where we get our treatment, but the sky's the limit when it comes to their spending to protect their huge profits, millions for executive salaries and expensive perks. Their priority appears to be money. Our priority is staying healthy and alive."

This year, the industry has already raised $93 million and spent $85.7 million, compared with $65.3 million and $47 million respectively two years ago. The new spending includes:

$74 million in television advertising;

in television advertising; $5 million for direct mail; and

for direct mail; and A nearly $2.8 million payment to the California Republican Party.

Dialysis is a dangerous procedure for patients with end stage renal disease whose kidneys either aren't functioning or are not functioning properly. It involves removing a patient's blood, cleaning it, and then returning it to the body. It must be done 3 times a week for 3 to 4 hours, and must be done for a patient's entire life or until they receive a kidney transplant. It puts patients at risk of serious complications, including heart attacks, large fluctuations in blood pressure, and loss of consciousness.

Proposition 23 does four things to protect the health and safety of dialysis patients:

Requires a physician or nurse practitioner to be in the clinic any time patients are being treated to oversee care, make sure safety and sanitation protocols are followed, and be there for the inevitable complications that arise. Requires clinics to report accurate data on infections to the state and federal governments so patients and their families can access the information and make informed decisions on which clinics to utilize. Like all other life-saving health care facilities, stops clinics from being closed or reducing services unless approved by the state. This is designed to protect patients in rural communities or those who would have to travel long distances if their clinic closed because the dialysis industry the location is not making enough money. Prohibits clinics from discriminating against patients because of the type of insurance they have.

Although the "Yes on 23" side is being heavily outspent by the dialysis industry, a recent poll by Survey USA shows the measure with more than a 2-1 lead, with 49 percent of voters in support and 23 percent against.

SEIU-United Healthcare Workers West (SEIU-UHW) is one of the largest unions of hospital workers in the United States, with 97,000 members. Learn more at www.seiu-uhw.org.

SOURCE SEIU-United Healthcare Workers West

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A mother who welcomed premature twins via a surrogate after a 10-year fertility struggle which cost her over 120,000 admits she is 'broken' after one of the babies contracted a rare form of meningitis, while his brother remains in intensive care.

Lisa Clarke, 50, from Maidenhead, initially met her husband Ruston at a yoga retreat where they formed a close friendship and he agreed to be her sperm donor.

After multiple failed attempts to have a baby, the pair became a couple and married and both were elated when their sons Bodhi and Keanu were born in Greece last month, via surrogate.

With Bodhi requiring a longer stay in neonatal care in Athens, Lisa and Ruston were able to leave hospital with Keanu home four days - but rushed him back into hospital a week later after noticing unusual changes in his behaviour.

The couple were then dealt the heartbreaking blow that Keanu had contracted a very rare form of bacterial meningitis which has spread to his brain and caused abscesses, with potential long-term damage.

Lisa Clarke, 50, from Maidenhead, and her husband Ruston (pictured) welcomed premature twins via a surrogate after a 10-year fertility struggle which cost her over 120,000 - but one of the babies has contracted a rare form of meningitis

With his brother Bodhi requiring a longer stay in neonatal care, Lisa and Ruston were able to take Keanu (pictured) home after four days - but rushed him back into hospital a week later after noticing unusual changes in his behaviour

Unable to leave the country while their son's life hangs in the balance, Lisa and Ruston are now desperately fundraising via GoFundMe to cover Keanu's soaring medical bills - while being prevented from seeing him due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Speaking to FEMAIL, Lisa admitted: 'Ruston and I are processing so many emotions from guilt, anxiety to shock.

'After everything we have gone through to have these precious souls to feel happiness like no other for a few days to now this - it is too much to comprehend.'

Lisa's fertility journey began at the age of 40, after leaving her long-term partner when he admitted he couldn't see a future with children.

She met her now-husband shortly afterwards at a yoga retreat in Costa Rica and the pair formed a close friendship, with Ruston agreeing to be her sperm donor.

The couple were then dealt the heartbreaking blow that Keanu (pictured before he became ill) had contracted a very rare form of bacterial meningitis which has spread to his brain and caused abscesses, with potential long-term damage

Unable to leave the country while their son's life hangs in the balance, Lisa and Ruston are now desperately fundraising to cover Keanu's soaring medical bills - while being prevented from seeing him due to Covid-19 restrictions. Pictured: Bodhi in hospital

After undergoing a 'natural' IVF cycle, Lisa fell pregnant, but sadly miscarried at six weeks. Over the next four years she had two further pregnancies, both of which ended in miscarriage, and four failed cycles of IVF, at which point she was eligible for diagnostic testing.

It transpired Lisa has an overactive immune system which meant her body was rejecting the foetus.

Feeling her dream of becoming a mother was fading fast, she looked into surrogacy, and was overwhelmed when a close friend agreed to carry her baby. Following a natural IVF cycle using Lisa's eggs, she fell pregnant.

'To say I was grateful was a huge understatement,' Lisa said. 'I felt incredibly fortunate and felt sure this was going to be "it". At last I was going to be a mum.'

But tragedy struck when, at the 12-week scan, Lisa was told the baby had stopped developing a week earlier, leaving her and her friend devastated.

'My fertility specialist at the time wrote the last miscarriage down to "just one of those unexplained things",' she recalled.

Lisa's fertility journey began at the age of 40, after leaving her long-term partner when he admitted he couldn't see a future with children. She met her now-husband (pictured) shortly afterwards at a yoga retreat in Costa Rica and the pair formed a close friendship, with Ruston agreeing to be her sperm donor

'Though my amazing friend was still open to trying again, after putting her through a very harrowing miscarriage, there was no way I felt comfortable to risk putting her in that situation again.'

Lisa's friend then kindly offered to donate her eggs, which were transferred in August 2014 - but sadly it didn't result in a pregnancy.

By this point Lisa had consulted with various fertility specialists, and decided to pursue treatment at the Serum IVF clinic in Athens. Ruston - who was still living in the US - flew out to provide a sperm sample, a suitable egg donor was found and six embryos were frozen.

Having been on a concoction of drugs to reduce her body's immune response, Lisa had three embryos transferred in February 2015, but unfortunately she still didn't fall pregnant.

'I had reached the point there were no more plan Bs,' she explained. 'Finances at this point were limited and what I had hoped had been the solution to implantation failure hadn't worked so I was at a loss as to what to try next.

After suffering miscarriages and failed rounds of IVF, Lisa had consulted with various fertility specialists, and decided to pursue treatment at the Serum IVF clinic in Athens. Ruston - who was still living in the US - flew out to provide a sperm sample, a suitable egg donor was found and six embryos were frozen

'I had literally thrown everything at this by now; there was not a test I had not done, a treatment I had not tried, both conventional and non conventional.'

Having sold her property in London, Lisa moved to Oregon to be with Ruston and the pair married on St Patrick's Day in 2016. While life had taken a more positive turn, Lisa felt guilty about leaving her family in the UK, especially as her mother had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's.

In December 2018, she made the difficult decision to return to the UK to support her family with her mother's care. On New Year's Eve, while scrolling through Instagram, Lisa came across a surrogacy post shared by the Serum clinic.

'The reason this stood out to me is that when I had last been in touch with Serum in 2015 and asked about surrogacy, it was illegal to anyone but Greek citizens,' Lisa explained.

She contacted them the following day and received an almost instant response, confirming the law had changed.

Bodhi and Keanu (pictured with dad Ruston) were born at 34 weeks and Lisa admitted she couldn't believe her luck

'For the first time in years the remnants of a flicker of hope sparked to life,' Lisa admitted.

At this point she was fast approaching her 50th birthday - the legal cut-off age for the intended mother of a surrogate child in Greece - so the clinic moved swiftly and, after a suitable surrogate came forward, two of the three remaining embryos held by Serum were transferred that October - but yet again, no pregnancy.

After consulting with her specialist, the couple decided on a plan to improve Ruston's sperm, which wasn't bad but did show a high amount of DNA fragmentation.

After a 40-day course of antibiotics, testosterone and antioxidant supplements, his sperm quality rocketed and the couple decided on one last attempt. A donor was found and two embryos were transferred in February this year - weeks before the clinic shut due to Covid-19.

Days later the couple received the joyous news their surrogate was expecting twins - five months before Lisa's 50th birthday.

Lisa admitted she and Ruston struggled with only being allowed to see their newborns for a few minutes before they were whisked away to neonatal. They were then prevented from visiting them due to Covid-19 restrictions. Pictured with Keanu

On September 25, Lisa told how Keanu (pictured) didn't seem himself, but the new parents put his crying down to colic and an upset stomach. When he took a turn for the worse, they took him into hospital, where they received his heartbreaking diagnosis

The pregnancy was relatively straightforward bar a few scares until a scan earlier this month showed one baby was experiencing abnormal blood flow. The boys were delivered at 34 weeks on September 14.

'I could not truly believe it when Dr Ioannis came and told us we have two healthy boys,' Lisa recalled.

What is meningitis? Meningitis is inflammation of the membranes that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Anyone can be affected but at-risk people include those aged under five, 15-to-24 and over 45. People exposed to passive smoking or with suppressed immune systems, such as patients undergoing chemotherapy, are also more at risk. The most common forms of meningitis are bacterial and viral. Bacterial meningitis Bacterial meningitis requires urgent treatment at hospital with antibiotics. Some 10 per cent of bacterial cases are fatal. Of those who survive, one in three suffer complications, including brain damage and hearing loss. Limb amputation is a potential side effect if septicaemia (blood poisoning) occurs. Vaccines are available against certain strains of bacteria that cause meningitis, such as tuberculosis. Symptoms for both include: Pale, blotchy skin with a rash that does not fade when compressed with a glass

Stiff neck

Dislike of bright lights

Fever, and cold hands and feet

Vomiting

Drowsiness

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'What I was not prepared for was, despite having had the Covid test, we would have to see the boys individually and then only for a few minutes.

'I had expected to be able to stay with them for as long as we wanted, even overnight. Upsettingly we were not allowed to see them until they were ready to be discharged.

'At this time Bodhi is still in neonatal and I have not seem him since the day he was born. He was the smaller baby who was showing distress at the scans.

'Keanu was doing amazing for a preterm and was discharged on the 18th. He was perfect.'

On September 25, Lisa told how Keanu didn't seem himself, but the new parents put his crying down to colic and an upset stomach. When he took a turn for the worse, they took him into hospital.

'He was fretful all of Saturday and I wish so much I had reacted sooner,' Lisa said. 'I called the hospital at 3am Sunday explaining the symptoms.

'They told us to wait three hours and call again if he still wasn't eating. We decided to override their advice and go straight to the hospital.

'We acted quickly but looking back wish I had researched deeper and perhaps pieced together the symptoms to have reacted sooner, thinking it may have made all the difference to the spread of the infection.

'A few hours later they confirmed bacterial meningitis and then, having cultured his lumbar fluid, detected it to be an extremely rare form of gram negative bacterial.

'The MRI on Monday confirmed he'd had seizures and the infection has crossed the blood brain barrier.

'Lesions are visible, in areas that affect both cognitive and motor function, to what degree we do not know. I am too scared to ask right now.

'The guilt for somehow not reacting sooner I don't think will ever leave me.'

While the couple hope to bring Bodhi home soon, they hadn't budgeted for the extra medical care Keanu is receiving, and have set up a GoFundMe page for donations.

'I can't process that this is happening and feel broken,' Lisa said. 'We are doing our best to stay positive.'
HARTFORD  A city man authorities say was connected with a drug trafficking organization selling cocaine will spend more than two years in federal prison.

A judge has sentenced Hector Luna, 32, to 30 months in prison, followed by four years of supervised release, stemming from an investigation into drug trafficking in and around Hartford.

Investigators learned the drug trafficking organization was receiving shipments of cocaine from Puerto Rico and California, then would distribute it in the Hartford area, according to a news release from the office of U.S. Attorney for Connecticut John Durham.

The shipments started with the U.S. Postal Service letter carrier, who was facilitating the shipments of parcels with kilogram-amounts of cocaine through the USPS to addresses on his delivery route in Hartford, Durham said. The letter carrier distributed cocaine to his own drug customers and received parcels to other large-scale cocaine traffickers in the Hartford area, Durham said.

Luna received parcels of cocaine from the letter carrier. Authorities say Luna then delivered the parcels to other accomplices.

On May 21, 2019, Luna was arrested.

A grand jury in Hartford returned an indictment on June 4, 2019, charging Luna and 18 accomplices with conspiracy to distribute cocaine and related offenses, authorities said .

On Nov. 17, 2019, Luna pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute cocaine.

He was released on a $100,000 bond and told to report to prison on Nov. 11.
(Newser)  Sallie Hammett wrote an obituary for her dog, thinking it would help her sort through some tough feelings. Having now gone viral, the write-updesigned to look like it would appear in a newspaperhas thousands mourning along with her. "Born July 15th, 2013, in Easley, South Carolina, Charlie was the son of Sallie Gregory Hammett," the Greenville woman wrote in the obit posted to Twitter on Sept. 22. The golden retriever she took home at 8 weeks old was adopted four years later by her husband, "loving dog dad" David Hammett, the obit continued. Charlie loved walking, stick collecting, swimming, smiling, sleeping, bananas, socks, the beach, car rides, and going to his grandparents' house, where he'd chase squirrels, she added. In fact, "Charlie loved everything life had to offer (except stairs. He hated stairs)."

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She recalls one time the 80-pound dog was "being especially stubborn" and had to be carried up four flights of stairs, per CNN. But he was worth it. "More than anything else, Charlie loved his mom," the obit reads. "He was her constant companion." Charlie, who had lymphoma, died Sept. 13 at age 7. But his last days were sweet. At the beach, "he relaxed in the Charlie-sized holes he dug himself, and dove straight into the oncoming waves." Hammett noted "we will think of him every time we open the peanut butter." She told CNN that if you gave Charlie peanut butter on a banana, "you would think it was just the best day of his life." The obit has received more than 110,000 likes. But more important are "all the people that say they loved Charlie even though they never met him," Hammett tells HuffPost. "It makes me feel less alone and just flooded with love." (Read more obituary stories.)
Health Secretary Matt Hancock was told to 'get his facts straight' today after shooting down vitamin D as a potential coronavirus treatment despite a growing body of evidence from around the world suggesting it works.

Experts have for months been calling for officials to look into the immune system-boosting nutrient's effect on Covid-19 patients after a mountain of research showed a link to vitamin D deficiency.

Mr Hancock told the House of Commons last week he had green-lit a Government-funded 'trial' investigating vitamin D and that it did not 'appear to have any impact'.

But officials have since admitted that no clinical trials had taken place and claim it was a slip of the tongue from the health secretary - who was also staunchly opposed to face masks in the spring and claimed they were 'extremely weak' in stopping Covid-19's spread.

Officials estimate one in five Britons are deficient in vitamin D  the equivalent of 13million Britons. But the rate is up to 90 per cent in people with darker skin, such as BAME populations who are known to be at greater risk from Covid-19.

Mr Hancock has now agreed to meet experts to to hear the growing case for the vitamin, which the body produces when exposed to the sun. But his flippant dismissal of vitamin D has sparked fury among scientists and MPs who today said time is running out for ministers to act, as levels of the 'sunshine vitamin' drop dramatically in autumn and winter.

Experts said his comments 'displayed incredible ignorance', while Liberal Democrat MP Layla Morgan told MailOnline the secretary of state 'needs to be listening, not dismissing'. She added: 'I hope Matt Hancock will take a less flippant approach to potential treatments in future and get his facts straight before making such comments. We're in a crisis, it's time for politicians to stop playing science and listen to the experts.'

A mountain of studies have found an overwhelming amount of people who test positive for Covid-19 do not have enough vitamin D in their bodies and the sickest of patients are often deficient. Scientists have not yet been able to pin down whether the nutrient deficiency is making people more vulnerable to the disease or whether becoming unwell causes vitamin D levels to crash.

But vitamin D supplements are safe, cheap and readily available - costing as little as 6p a pill and sold in most pharmacies, supermarkets and health shops - which has left experts baffled as to why Mr Hancock would be so quick to dismiss them.

Two leading leading doctors told MailOnline that politicians and scientists were so hellbent on getting a vaccine - the Government has pumped hundreds of millions into jab development projects - that they had overlooked the potential of vitamin D and boosting people's immune systems, which they say is a far less glamorous option.

But Matt Hancock told the House of Commons last week he had green-lit a Government-funded 'trial' investigating vitamin D and that it did not 'appear to have any impact'

Vitamin D supplements are safe, cheap and readily available - costing as little as 6p a pill and sold in most pharmacies, supermarkets and health shops

As well as in supplements, vitamin D is also available through foods, including oily fish, red meat and eggs (right). A Singaporean study earlier in the year of nearly 800 people found almost 99% of Covid-19 patients who died had vitamin D deficiency (left)

A study by Tehran University, in Iran, and Boston University analysed data from 235 hospitalised patients with Covid-19. Patients who had sufficient vitamin D - of at least 30 ng/mL were 51.5 per cent less likely to die from the disease. Although no one in the study under age 40 died, fatalities (red) were more common among vitamin D deficient people (under the black line) of all ages

A correlation graph showing the relationship between levels of viamin D (bottom, measured in nmol/l) compared to infection numbers of coronavirus by the University of East Anglia. Countries with low vitamin D levels tend to have the highest case rates per million - but the graph was from a study in May, when outbreaks looked very different to how they do now and testing was patchy in most countries

University of Chicago researchers studying 500 Americans' vitamin D levels found 60 per cent higher rates of Covid-19 among people with low levels of the 'sunshine vitamin'

What have just some of the DOZENS of studies into vitamin D and Covid-19 shown? When? September. By who? Cordoba University in Spain. What did scientists study? 50 Covid-19 hospital patients with Covid-19 were given vitamin D. Their health outcomes were compared with 26 volunteers in a control group who were not given the tablets. What did they find? Only one of the 50 patients needed intensive care and none died. Half of 26 virus sufferers who did not take vitamin D were later admitted to intensive care and two died. What were the study's limitations? Small pool of volunteers. Patients' vitamin D levels were not checked before admission. Comorbidities were not taken into consideration. When? September. By Who? University of Chicago. What did scientists study? 500 Americans' vitamin D levels were tested. Researchers then compared volunteers' levels with how many caught coronavirus. What did they find? 60 per cent higher rates of Covid-19 among people with low levels of the 'sunshine vitamin'. What were the study's limitations? Researchers did not check for other compounding factors. Unclear whether or not volunteers were vitamin D deficient at the time of their coronavirus tests. People's age, job and where they lived - factors which greatly increase the chance of contracting the virus - were not considered. When? September. By Who? Tehran University, in Iran, and Boston University. What did scientists study? Analysed data from 235 hospitalized patients with Covid-19. What did they find? Patients who had sufficient vitamin D - of at least 30 ng/mL were 51.5 per cent less likely to die from the disease. They also had a significantly lower risk of falling seriously ill or needing ventilation. Patients who had plenty of the nutrient also had less inflammation - often a deadly side effect of Covid-19. What were the study's limitations? Confounding factors, such as smoking, and social economic status were not recorded for all patients and could have an impact on illness severity. When? July. By Who? Tel Aviv University, Israel. What did scientists study? 782 people who tested positive for coronavirus had their vitamin d levels prior to infection assessed retrospectively and compared to healthy people. What did they find? People with vitamin D levels below 30 ng/ml - optimal - were 45 per cent more likely to test positive and 95 per cent more likely to be hospitalised. What were the study's limitations? Did not look at underlying health conditions and did not check vitamin D levels at the time of infection. When? June. By Who? Brussels Free University. What did scientists study? Compared vitamin D levels in almost 200 Covid-19 hospital patients with a control group of more than 2,000 healthy people. What did they find? Men who were hospitalised with the infection were significantly more likely to have a vitamin D deficiency than healthy men of the same age. Deficiency rates were 67 per cent in the COVID-19 patient group, and 49 per cent in the control group. The same was not found for women. What were the study's limitations? Independent scientists say blood vitamin D levels go down when people develop serious illness, which the study did not take into consideration. This suggests that it is the illness that is leading to lower blood vitamin D levels in this study, and not the other way around. When? June. By who? Inha University in Incheon, South Korea. What did scientists study? 50 hospital patients with Covid-19 were checked for levels of all vital vitamins and compared to a control group. What did they find? 76 per cent of them were deficient in vitamin D, and a severe vitamin D deficiency (<10 ng/dl) was found in 24 per cent of Covid-19 patients and just 7 per cent in the control group. What were the study's limitations? Small sample size and researchers never accounted for vitamin levels dropping when they fall ill. When? June. By Who?. Independent scientists in Indonesia. What did scientists study? Checked vitamin D levels in 780 Covid-19 hospital patients. What did they find? Almost 99% of patients who died had vitamin D deficiency. Of patients with vitamin D levels higher than 30 ng/ml - considered optimal - only per cent died. What were the study's limitations? It was not peer-reviewed by fellow scientists, a process that often uncovers flaws in studies. When? May. By Who? University of Glasgow. What did scientists study? Vitamin D levels in 449 people from the UK Biobank who had confirmed Covid-19 infection. What did they find? Vitamin D deficiency was associated with an increased risk in infection - but not after adjustment for con-founders such as ethnicity. It led to the team to conclude their 'findings do not support a potential link between vitamin D concentrations and risk of Covid-19 infection.' What were the study's limitations? Vitamin D levels were taken 10 to 14 years beforehand. When? May. By Who? University of East Anglia. What did scientists study? Average levels of vitamin D in populations of 20 European countries were compared with Covid-19 infection and death rates at the time. What did they find? The mean level of vitamin D in each country was 'strongly associated' with higher levels of Covid-19 cases and deaths. The authors said at the time: 'The most vulnerable group of population for Covid-19 is also the one that has the most deficit in vitamin D.' What were the study's limitations? The number of cases in each country was affected by the number of tests performed, as well as the different measures taken by each country to prevent the spread of infection. And it only looked at correlation, not causation. When? May. By Who? Northwestern University. What did scientists study? Crunched data from dozens of studies around the world that included vitamin D levels among Covid-19 patients. What did they find? Patients with a severe deficiency are twice as likely to experience major complications and die. What were the study's limitations? Cases and deaths in each country was affected by the number of tests performed. Advertisement

NEW FINGER PRICK TEST CAN SPOT VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY IN JUST 15 MINUTES Britons can now find out whether they are deficient in vitamin D in as little as fifteen minutes, thanks to a new test. The pioneering DIY kit  marketed as the first-of-its-kind in the world  works on just a few drops of blood taken from the finger. It works in exactly the same way as how diabetics check their blood sugar levels, and similar kits exist to look for Covid-19 antibodies. Blood is mixed with a solution before it is fed into a 10cm device, which analyses the sample to determine vitamin D levels. Users are able to find out their results through the Your Personalised Vitamin's (YPV) app, by scanning the device through their phone. It is the first vitamin D test kit to give a quantitative result, meaning the result gives a precise reading rather than just high or low. Other do-it-yourself vitamin D tests, which do not give a quantitative result instead giving a basic reading just like a pregnancy test, are sold online and for around 10. YPV's home-kit costs 40. Advertisement

It comes after promising research in Spain, which MailOnline covered last month, suggested supplementing Covid-19 hospital patients with the vitamin saves lives.

With very limited treatment options - only a handful of steroid have been proven to help Covid-19 patients - the UK Government has had to rollback economically-crippling and socially-constraining lockdown measures.

Ministers have threatened a second lockdown unless the virus's current trajectory is curtailed.

If proven to work, vitamin D could provide a cheap and easy way to protect Brits and keep the nation ticking over until a vaccine is ready.

Mr Hancock shot down vitamin D's potential last week in reply to a question from Dr Rupa Huq, the Labour MP for Ealing and Acton Central.

He said: 'Vitamin D is one of the many things we have looked into, to see whether it reduces the incidence or impact of coronavirus.

'And I've seen reports that it does, so we therefore put it into a trial, and unfortunately the results were that it doesn't appear to have any impact. So that is the latest clinical advice, which, of course, is always kept under review.'

Mr Hancock appeared to be referring to a review of evidence conducted by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), an arm of the Department of Health.

NICE conducted a review of a limited number of studies published by June. It noted that a stronger immune system provided greater protection against Covid-19 and admitted that vitamin D boosted immune function.

But it was not convinced there was enough evidence to show that giving doses of the vitamin to already-sick Covid-19 patients provided any benefit.

Dozens of studies  based on weaker methodologies than the Spanish research  have also pointed to similar links.

For instance, researchers at the University of East Anglia in May said: 'The most vulnerable group of population for Covid-19 is also the one that has the most deficit in vitamin D.'

While University of Chicago scientists last month found that rates of Covid-19 were 60 per cent higher among people with low levels of the sunshine nutrient.

But not all of the evidence has pointed to a benefit.

Glasgow University researchers in May ruled that vitamin D deficiency was associated with an increased risk in infection - but not after adjustment for con-founders such as ethnicity.

It led to the team to conclude their 'findings do not support a potential link between vitamin D concentrations and risk of Covid-19 infection'.

Dr Huq, in a point of order in parliament on Monday this week, said: '[Mr Hancock] said that he had conducted a trial and there was no effect.

'It turns out that there was no trial. The word 'trial' implies fresh evidence, not reheated leftovers.'

Liberal Democrat MP Layla Morgan told MailOnline: 'This Government needs to be listening not dismissing.

'I hope Matt Hancock will take a less flippant approach to potential treatments in future and get his facts straight before making such comments.

'We're in a crisis, it's time for politicians to stop playing science and listen to the experts'

Professor Asif Ahmed, vice chancellor for healthcare at Aston University in Birmingham, said it was 'illogical' to say vitamin D has no effect on fighting illnesses.

He told MailOnline: 'We can't expect the secretary of state to know everything. So we can't put all the blame on him, but questions have to be asked about why none of his experts have looked into this properly.

'Even if there is a glimmer of hope - vitamin D supplements are safe, there's no dangers to taking them unless people take way too much.

'Even if taking vitamin D only reduces the chance of falling very ill with Covid-19, let's do it. The amount of millions we're spending on vaccines, public health measures and other treatments - why don't we just make everyone take supplements over winter.

'Even if we don't have conclusive data, we should go ahead.

'The Government still doesn't have conclusive data on wearing face masks, but we're wearing them and they're probably helping a little bit.

'We can't call for a big study into vitamin D then wait to years time and decide. It'll be too late then.'

Professor Ahmed suggested that Britain becoming the first country to produce a vaccine was more glamorous than simply prescribing the nation with cheap and common supplements.

As well as in supplements, vitamin D is also available through foods, mainly oily fish.

Black and ethnic minority people (BAME) are more likely to be deficient because it is harder for darker skin types to absorb the nutrient from sunlight.

Eighty per cent of people from South Asian backgrounds, for example, are deficient in the nutrient.

Some believe this may one of the reasons BAME people face a higher risk of dying from the illness, but this has yet to be proven.

The current advice from Public Health England and the NHS is for everybody to consider taking a daily supplement of 10 micrograms - the amount found in one small salmon fillet - during the winter months when sun is hard to come by.

'This is because you may not be getting enough vitamin D from sunlight if you're indoors most of the day,' the NHS advises, saying that supplements helps to keep bones healthy.

The NHS adds: 'There have been some reports about vitamin D reducing the risk of coronavirus. There is currently not enough evidence to support this.'

The NHS says the general consensus is levels of below 25nmol/L  the equivalent of 10ng/ml  in the blood indicate vitamin D deficiency.

This is thought to be the equivalent of taking around 10 micrograms of vitamin D a day.

The Institute of Medicine  a US health advisory body  states levels below 20ng/ml (50nmol/L) is a deficiency.

Large doses of vitamin D can be dangerous, with anything above 100 micrograms to be taken only under medical supervision.

Charles Bangham, chairman in immunology at Imperial College London, told The Times: 'PHE already recommends that everybody take a daily vitamin D supplement but the message is not getting through to a large section of the population.

'As we move into autumn and winter, vitamin D levels will fall and more of the population will become deficient.

'On that basis, whatever is to be done must be done swiftly. We have nothing to lose but much to gain by eradicating deficiency.'

Studies linking vitamin D deficiency to poorer health outcomes from Covid-19 have been piling up since the pandemic hit earlier in the year.

The growing body of evidence prompted Jacqueline Dunkley-Bent, chief midwifery officer at NHS England, to send a memo to all maternity units in June warning that 'women low in vitamin D may be more vulnerable to coronavirus'.

The US Government's leading infectious disease expert, Antony Fauci, has admitted he takes vitamin D to boost his immune system against viruses.

But the most promising study into vitamin D's effects on Covid-19 was carried out by the University of Cordoba in Spain and published last month.

Researchers gave high doses of calcifediol  a type of vitamin D supplement  to 50 patients hospitalised with the disease.

They were given 1,000 micrograms of the supplement over the course of a week, with 550mcg on the first day and then two booster doses of 270mcg on days three and seven.

'The dose was much higher than the 70mcg weekly limit recommended by the NHS.

Scientists compared the participants' health with 26 volunteers in a control group who were not given the tablets, which are normally prescribed to patients with thyroid or kidney problems.

Just one patient given calcifediol fell ill enough to be admitted to intensive care, whereas half of the participants in the control group were taken to ICU and two died.

There were no deaths among volunteers receiving the vitamin and all 50 patients were eventually discharged by the end of the study.

Independent scientists, including some from NICE, said the findings were promising but there were too many flaws in the study's methods.

For example, the experts did not measure vitamin D levels before or after administering the drug.

And participants' underlying health conditions were not defined.

Experts now believe Covid-19 causes a catastrophic build-up of a chemical called bradykinin, which makes blood vessels leaky and drives up the risk of inflammation.

Calcifediol is one of the few hormones which regulates the bradykinin and it can also prevent the immune system from going into overdrive.

But this is just a theory and has still not been proven.

HOW VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY AFFECTS THE BODY Vitamin D deficiency  when the level of vitamin D in your body is too low  can cause your bones to become thin, brittle or misshapen. Vitamin D also appears to play a role in insulin resistance, high blood pressure and immune function  and this relates to heart disease and cancer  but this is still being investigated. Low levels of the vitamin have also long been linked to an increased risk of multiple sclerosis. For most adults, vitamin D deficiency is not a concern. However, some groups  particularly people who are obese, who have dark skin and who are older than age 65  may have lower levels of vitamin D due to their diets, little sun exposure or other factors. The NHS says the general consensus is levels of below 25nmol/L in the blood indicate vitamin D deficiency. This is thought to be the equivalent of taking around 10 micrograms of vitamin D a day. The Institute of Medicine  a US health advisory body  states levels below 20ng/ml (50nmol/L) is a deficiency. Large doses of vitamin D can be dangerous, with anything above 100 micrograms to be taken only under medical supervision. WHAT PERCENTAGE OF PEOPLE ARE VITAMIN D DEFICIENT IN BRITAIN? White people: About 20%

People with African, African-Caribbean and South Asian origin: Over 80% Advertisement

Professor Ian Jones, a virologist at the University of Reading, told MailOnline: 'My general view is that if there is no clear cut view on vitamin D after six months of debate then there is nothing in it.

'The bradykinin theory sounds plausible but it is just one of hundreds of factors that are induced by the infection and many cytokines also cause blood vessel leakage (its why you have hemorrhagic shock in several viral diseases).'

Taking too much vitamin D can cause bone and organ damage over time, however, and scientists discouraged people from trying to self-medicate.

Meanwhile, Britons can now find out whether they are deficient in vitamin D in as little as fifteen minutes, thanks to a new test.

The pioneering DIY kit  marketed as the first-of-its-kind in the world  works on just a few drops of blood taken from the finger.

It works in exactly the same way as how diabetics check their blood sugar levels, and similar kits exist to look for Covid-19 antibodies.

MINISTERS WOULD ALREADY KNOW FOR DEFINITE WHETHER VITAMIN D WORKED IF DEFICIENCIES WERE MORE COMMON IN WHITE PEOPLE, EXPERT SAYS More research would have been done into the link between vitamin D and Covid-19 if deficiency was a bigger problem for white people, a doctor has claimed. Ethnic minorities more often suffer from vitamin D deficiency because their skin is slower to make it from sunlight. Eighty per cent of people from South Asian backgrounds, for example, are deficient in the nutrient, compared to one in five Brits overall. Experts have for months called on officials to take a proper look into the nutrient's effect on Covid-19 patients due to its immune system-boosting properties, with an array of evidence suggesting it is beneficial. But scientists have yet to be able to conclusively say that the sunshine vitamin does help because of a lack of gold-standard trials, such as the one carried out to prove that the cheap steroid dexamethasone boosts survival rates for the most critically-ill patients. Dr Aseem Malhotra, one of Britain's leading anti-obesity campaigners and a former NHS cardiologist, told MailOnline 'underlying racism' is clearly to blame for the lack of clinical trials into vitamin D. He said: 'Vitamin D plays an essential role in innate and adaptive immunity. Severe deficiency, which has been strongly correlated with adverse outcomes from Covid-19, also has a high prevalence among BAME groups in the UK. 'The majority of those from South Asian or black backgrounds are either deficient or severely deficient. 'This has been known for years yet little has been done to act on it, in part because of how endemic racism is in both medical research and practice.' Dr Malhotra, author of Sunday Times best-seller 'The 21-Day Immunity Plan', added that everybody should consider taking vitamin D during the winter months. He said: 'There is no significant harm from supplementing the public with vitamin D, and only likely a benefit.' Advertisement

Blood is mixed with a solution before it is fed into a 10cm device, which analyses the sample to determine vitamin D levels.

Users are able to find out their results through the Your Personalised Vitamin's (YPV) app, by scanning the device through their phone.

It is the first vitamin D test kit to give a quantitative result, meaning the result gives a precise reading rather than just high or low.

Other do-it-yourself vitamin D tests, which do not give a quantitative result instead giving a basic reading just like a pregnancy test, are sold online and for around 10. YPV's home-kit costs 40.

Private clinics have for years offered Britons the chance to find out whether they are deficient in the vitamin through similar tests.

But these can take up to a week to give results because they must be analysed in a laboratory.

YPV offers plans to tailor the results of the test to individual needs, advising deficient Britons on exactly how much of the nutrient they need.

Chris Chapman, chief executive officer of manufacturer YPV, said: 'We have seen a mountain of evidence that vitamin D has a positive, and at times life-saving, impact on people suffering with severe symptoms of coronavirus.

'It is not just the abundance of evidence that points to this conclusion.

'We fundamentally disagree with the Health Secretary on this matter, his comments display incredible ignorance.

'We urge him to practice his well-trodden mantra by following the science, which overwhelmingly points to the benefits of vitamin D when it comes tackling coronavirus.

Mr Chapman added: 'We are deeply disappointed about his comments.'

It comes as one doctor today claimed more research would have been done into the link between vitamin D and Covid-19 if deficiency was a bigger problem for white people.

Scientists have yet to be able to conclusively say that the sunshine vitamin does help because of a lack of gold-standard trials, such as the one carried out to prove that the cheap steroid dexamethasone boosts survival rates for the most critically-ill patients.

Dr Aseem Malhotra, one of Britain's leading anti-obesity campaigners and a former NHS cardiologist, told MailOnline 'underlying racism' is clearly to blame for the lack of clinical trials into vitamin D.

He said: 'Vitamin D plays an essential role in innate and adaptive immunity. Severe deficiency, which has been strongly correlated with adverse outcomes from Covid-19, also has a high prevalence among BAME groups in the UK.

'The majority of those from South Asian or black backgrounds are either deficient or severely deficient.

'This has been known for years yet little has been done to act on it, in part because of how endemic racism is in both medical research and practice.'

Dr Malhotra, author of Sunday Times best-seller 'The 21-Day Immunity Plan', added that everybody should consider taking vitamin D during the winter months.

He said: 'There is no significant harm from supplementing the public with vitamin D, and only likely a benefit.'

Dr Malhotra said he suspects ministers are so focused on a vaccine that they may be overlooking more simple treatment options, like promoting a healthy immune system and supplementing vitamin D.

He added: 'The current narrative of suggesting the best and only solution to beat Covid-19 is waiting for a vaccine plays into the Big Pharma narrative, who have too much influence over politicians.

'As one very senior politician once said to me, "the Department of Health is too close to industry" - we yet have no idea how effective a vaccine will be.

'For example the flu vaccine is largely ineffective for over 65s yet most doctors dont know this let alone patients. The focus needs to be advice and policies that help the population lead healthier lives, which wont only reduce the burden on the overstretched NHS but will also improve our resilience to infection.'

It comes as another study today claimed that black people are almost twice as likely to die from Covid-19 as white people.

Numerous reports, including government-funded research, have shown people in black, Asian and ethnic minority (BAME) communities are being hit harder by the coronavirus.

The latest review of evidence, commissioned by London Mayor Sadiq Khan, adds to the fire.

Manchester University academics, who carried out the research, found black people were 1.9 times more likely to die from Covid-19 than white people. They analysed the data from both local and national sources to make the conclusion.

WHY HAVE SCIENTISTS ONLY CARRIED OUT ONE ROBUST TRIAL OF VITAMIN D? Despite scientists banging the drum about the nuterient's potential benefits against Covid-19 throughout the crisis, only one peer-reviewed clinical trial has been carried out. The University of Cordoba in Spain study which was published last month is the only piece of research currently in the scientific literature that has compared Covid-19 patients supplemented with the vitamin versus patients who were not. Dozens of other studies that look back at virus infected patients' vitamin D levels retrospectively have been conducted, however, and most identify a link between deficiency and risk of coronavirus infection. There are a few examples - including one by the University of Glasgow - which found the risk disappears when other factors such as ethnicity, poverty and comorbidities are considered. However many medics - including Dr Malhotra, one of Britain's leading anti-obesity campaigners and a former NHS cardiologist, and Professor Asif Ahmed, vice chancellor for healthcare at Aston University in Birmingham - believe that vitamin D deficiency among BAME people may be a hidden driver behind why non-whites are being disproportionately affected by Covid-19. They say the link deserves urgent investigation in the form of clinical trials - particularly with the threat of a second lockdown looming over the UK. Professor Ahmed said he saw 'no logic' as to why more clinical trials had not been done. When asked if he believed it was because the vitamin was seen as a far less glamorous option than a world-first vaccine, he said 'quite possibly'. Advertisement

Black people are almost twice as likely to die from Covid-19 as white people, finds study commissioned by Sadiq Khan Black people are almost twice as likely to die from Covid-19 as white people, according to a study that adds to growing evidence on the subject. Numerous reports, including government-funded research, have shown people in black, Asian and ethnic minority (BAME) communities are being hit harder by the coronavirus. The latest review of evidence, commissioned by London Mayor Sadiq Khan, adds to the fire. Manchester University academics, who carried out the research, found black people were 1.9 times more likely to die from Covid-19 than white people. They analysed the data from both local and national sources to make the conclusion. And the effect was still found even when they took into account that non-white people tend to, on average, have worse health and living conditions. Experts believe BAME communities have been hit harder by Covid-19 because ethnic minorities are more likely to be poorer and therefore in worse health, and more likely to work in public-facing jobs  leaving them vulnerable to catching the illness. The new report for Mr Khan made the same two conclusions, and it pointed out that a disproportionate number of BAME people work in risky jobs in the NHS and care homes. It comes after a study last week concluded BAME people are not genetically more at risk, but face a greater danger because of their life circumstances. Public Health England, which found a similar risk of death for BAME people in a long-awaited report published in June, warned historic racism and the hostility towards immigrants was partly to blame. The study into Covid-19 death rates in London found that black men face a 1.9 times higher risk of dying than white men, even when their differences in age, where they live, and their wealth and health are taken into account (yellow bars indicate the increased risk when all those factors except race are taken out of the equation) Advertisement
Sahar Daftary should have been celebrating her 24th birthday.

But instead of sharing the model's happiness, her family spent Christmas Day keeping a vigil at the spot where she plunged to her death.

More than two dozen relatives travelled from their homes in London to the block of flats in Salford Quays, Greater Manchester, where they laid flowers and cards and lit 24 candles, one for each year of her life.

Miss Daftary, who was crowned Miss Face of Asia last year, fell from the balcony of businessman Rashid Jamil's 12th-floor flat last Saturday.

Sahar's mother lays flowers at the spot where the model fell to her death

She had married 33-year-old Mr Jamil in a lavish Muslim ceremony 12 months ago but the relationship ended when she discovered he was already married with three children.

In fact the former restaurant owner had been married three times, and was still living with his third wife.

Miss Daftary's family, who are originally from Afghanistan, remain convinced she would not have taken her own life.

Her cousin, Aarozo Tach, 30, said: 'She would never have done that over this man. She was over him and was looking forward to the future.'

Miss Daftary, from Brentford, west London, went to Manchester to take part in a fashion show.

Friends say she agreed to go to Mr Jamil's apartment to finalise their divorce.

Mr Jamil was arrested on suspicion of murder but was later freed on bail.

Earlier, it was revealed Miss Daftary had lodged a complaint of sexual assault with police.

A spokeswoman for Greater Manchester Police said: 'Police received a report of sexual assault in May 2008. An investigation was launched but the victim refused to co-operate further.'

Sahar Daftary and Rashid Jamil on their 'wedding day' last year. She died after falling from his 12th floor luxury apartment. Her life fell apart after she discovered he had allegedly been married three times before

A close friend of Miss Daftary, who asked not to be named, said: 'Sahar went to the police about six months ago after she split with Rashid. She thought she was being followed and walked into a police station near the apartment in Salford Quays to lodge a complaint.

'He was very possessive of her and she said that he told her that he had people watching her.'

Miss Daftary had been in Mr Jamil's home city of Manchester for work but was persuaded to go to his flat after he offered her an Islamic divorce.

Her sister Mariya Massumi, 34, said Miss Daftary had previously tried to get Mr Jamil to sign divorce papers but he had not agreed.

Ms Massumi said: 'On the way up to Manchester, Sahar was arguing with Rashid on the phone but then he acted nicely and promised to sign the divorce papers.'

The family, having released pictures of Miss Daftary's marriage to Mr Jamil at the Holiday Inn in Brentford last December, now claim the union was never registered.

The happy couple 'wed' in Brentford, west London in December 2007

They have also insisted she would not have killed herself and had 'everything to live for'.

But they also claimed her marriage had been a sham and her husband was a womaniser.

Meanwhile his second wife, a lawyer by whom he has an 11-year-old daughter, said she had left the former curry house boss because of his drinking and womanising.

It is also unclear whether Mr Jamil's third marriage was ever legally recognised under English law.

Miss Daftary, who had been planning to fly to Dubai with friends for New Year's Eve, had tried to rebuild her life, recently starting studies for an accountancy degree.

Mr Jamil led the life of a wealthy entrepreneur but was behind a string of failed businesses and lived in a rented flat.

Ms Daftary shows off her wedding ring

He was arrested on suspicion of murder after she plunged to her death from his 12th floor waterside apartment at the weekend but was later released on bail.

It is understood that evidence so far points to her death being suicide or a tragic accident.

It also emerged that a pornographic video clip apparently featuring Miss Daftary and an unnamed man had recently been posted on a publicly accessible website.

She was said to have feared the footage would damage her career, and police are expected to examine whether somebody had made it public out of spite.

Miss Daftary's mother Anisa, a widow, has been left distraught by her daughter's death.

Sahar's brother-in-law Joe Karim said: 'She would never commit suicide. It was against everything she believed in. She had everything to live for. She was a beautiful, intelligent, religious woman.'

Miss Daftary's sister, Mariya Massumi, said: 'Sahar did not have a new partner but she had moved on with her life. She had started studying and stopped modelling. She had washed her hands of Rashid.'

The family released photographs of the Islamic ceremony at which Miss Daftary married Mr Jamil in December last year in front of 200 family and friends at the Holiday Inn near her home in Brentford.

They show the couple looking happy at the engagement party followed by the exchange of rings and vows and cutting of a four-tier cake in front of guests and an imam, who oversaw the ceremony.

Sahar wore a floral dress before changing into a more traditional green dress for the wedding ceremony.

Sahar's death is being treated as either suicide or a tragic accident

But crucially, the union was not registered with the authorities, claim her family. The couple had met through her modelling work, which often took her to fashion shows in Manchester.

But within a matter of weeks, Miss Daftary discovered that her ' husband' in fact already had a 'wife' in Manchester, 29-year-old Narissa Amjad, a marketing executive who was expecting their second child.

'When the wife phoned we didn't believe her,' said Mrs Massumi. 'She phoned every day. Eventually we went up to Manchester to ask him what was going on. His wife was there and his sister-in-law.

'He said in front of his wife that he wanted to be with Sahar. He had told Sahar that his wife was only with him for the money.'

Mr Jamil is thought to have first undergone an arranged marriage in Pakistan which ended in divorce. He then married a lawyer in Manchester in an officially recognised wedding. They had a daughter, but again the couple divorced.

The couple surrounded by family members during their wedding ceremony

With Narissa Amjad he had a boy, now four, and a girl, one. It is not known whether his marriage to Miss Amjad was registered officially or just recognised in the form of an Islamic ceremony, but in the eyes of Miss Daftary's family he is guilty of bigamy.

Their suspicions were first aroused when his parents did not turn up to the Holiday Inn ceremony - he claimed they were against the wedding because she was an Afghan - and again when he cancelled an appointment to register the marriage.

Despite the revelations of his allegedly secret past, Miss Daftary initially agreed to move to Salford Quays with him, but when it became apparent that he was staying with his 'wife', she decided to finish the relationship.

Having quit her job helping wealthy Arab shoppers at Harrods she enrolled in an accountancy and finance degree at Thames Valley University near her home.

'Remembering Princess Sahar'

Her sister added: 'Sahar had moved on. Last month Rashid tried to get back together with her. He offered to buy my sister a house and he asked her to live with him. But she told him she didn't want his money.'

At the weekend she had agreed to travel to Manchester to do the make-up for a fashion show at an Indian restaurant.

Friends have told her family that they had a row but that she then agreed to go to his 250,000 rented apartment at the NV Buildings on Saturday evening after he offered to give her an Islamic divorce.

Shortly afterwards, police received a call from Mr Jamil requesting assistance. By the time they got there she had suffered fatal injuries after her 150ft fall.

The luxury apartment block from which Ms Daftary plunged to her death

A man at his apartment refused to answer the door to the Daily Mail earlier this week. Mr Jamil had been seen leaving a red rose next to the spot where Miss Daftary landed.

Mr Jamil's ex-wife revealed that he had conducted a secret affair with Narissa while still married to her.

And she did not divorce him until July last year, long after his Islamic wedding to Narissa and just a few months before the ill-fated ceremony with Sahar, meaning the three 'marriages' almost overlapped.

She and Mr Jamil were childhood sweethearts, marrying in 1996.

Model looks: Ms Daftary's family have urged police not to write off her death as suicide. Here she poses with a friend

The woman said: 'People would have said we were the perfect couple. But four or five years after the marriage, he began drinking and began his affairs and things went downhill after that.

'He always had two women on the go. He would never be faithful to just one woman. Two girls turned up at my house, knocking on the door claiming they were pregnant. They said he'd promised to marry them and divorce me.'

She said he eventually left her for Miss Amjad but then became obsessed with Miss Dafarty.

'For him to be with a model, a girl like that, was beyond his dreams. She was a young, hot chick from London. He lavished her with money and jewels.'

Stunning: The dead woman was named Miss Asia 2007. She was in Manchester for a modelling job

She said she didn't believe he was responsible for her death. 'It could have been an accident,' she said. 'I think that it could be possible she has committed suicide.'

A police source said: 'Witnesses have said there was no shouting or ranting - just a single scream. It is being looked at as either suicide or a horrible accident.'

Her friend, Afrah Sami, said: 'We are all shocked and devastated. Sahar was very beautiful - she loved life and she was always the centre of the party.'
Innovation at ING is about creating a differentiating experience for customers and making their lives better. Our ambition is to increase the pace of innovation to stay a step ahead of the changes and evolutions in the world. And so far, our strategic innovation focus has allowed us to turn many great ideas into products and services that customers really need.

ING Neo

To increase the speed and impact of our performance, we are combining all our innovation activities into one dedicated business area called ING Neo, which will report directly to our chief executive officer (CEO) Steven van Rijswijk. INGs Annerie Vreugdenhil, will take on the new role of head of ING Neo on 1 January 2021, subject to Dutch Works Council advice.

Annerie brings years of knowledge of ING and leadership experience to her new position. In her current role as head of Wholesale Banking (WB) Innovation, she has focused on developing innovative value propositions for clients using technologies like distributed ledger technology and advanced analytics. She has explored initiatives through the WB Labs in Singapore, London and Amsterdam and has worked closely with ING Ventures.



Innovation areas at ING such as the chief innovation office and the WB innovation office will be brought into ING Neo as of 1 January 2021, subject to Dutch Works Council advice. This means that after five successful years in innovation, Benoit Legrands assignment as chief innovation officer and CEO ING Ventures will come to an end on 31 December 2020. His next role will be announced in due course.



Benoit has played a crucial role in leading innovation at ING to where it is today. He has built a strong reputation for ING in the banking sector, as recognised by Global Finance magazines Innovators 2020 awards, which named ING the most innovative bank in Western Europe. Under Benoits leadership, ING Ventures was established, and our 300 million fund, which currently holds more than 30 investments, was awarded most active fintech Corporate Venture Capital in Europe and includes highly successful fintechs like WeLab, Fintonic and Cobase. ING Labs have incubated and launched promising scale-ups, such as open banking platform Yolt, which now has 1.6 million registered users.
1. Layoffs in the U.S. are growing as companies signal new anxiety about the course of the coronavirus pandemic and uncertainty about further legislative relief.

Two major airlines, the insurance giant Allstate, Disney and a major book publisher have in recent days cumulatively announced plans to fire or furlough more than 60,000 workers, and more cuts are expected if Congress cannot agree on a new aid package to stimulate the economy.

Talks between Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin are the latest in a series of last-ditch negotiations. Democrats are pushing a new $2.2 trillion plan unveiled this week while the White House has floated a $1.6 trillion plan.
Mass Humanities to Honor Pioneer Valley Man

NORTHAMPTON, Mass.  Mass Humanities has announced that Al Griggs as a recipient of a 2020 Governor's Award in the Humanities.

The awards event is the organization's major annual fundraiser, and will be held virtually on Sunday, Oct. 25, from 5 to 7 p.m.

For the past two decades, Griggs has worked to enhance the lives of people in the Pioneer Valley through organizational leadership and philanthropy. He served as chairman of the Tuition Management Systems board, which helps individuals and families reduce the student loan debt burden.

This experience opened his eyes to the disparities of access to higher education. It is also why he has been such a huge champion of the Clemente Course over the years, which Mass Humanities runs in partnership with Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services and UMass Amherst in Springfield.

Another of Griggs' achievements was as a co-founder of the Valley Gives program, which spotlighted the numerous nonprofits in the Pioneer Valley, helped small organizations enhance their fundraising capabilities in the digital age, and channeled millions of new dollars to the region's nonprofits. He recently completed a six-year term on the Mass Humanities board and is currently chair of the board of CISA (Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture), and is also a member of the board of the John Hay Estate at the Fells in Newbury, New Hampshire.

"The Humanities have given me a lens to view the world in a different way, especially now in terms of the pandemic and the issues of racism facing our country," Griggs said. "I'm thrilled to be a recipient of a Governor's Award this year. We are living in challenging times and I am thankful that Mass Humanities is doing such important work to help support organizations and individuals as we grapple with the fallout of COVID-19."

Established in 2014, the Governor's Awards in the Humanities recognize individuals for their public actions, grounded in an appreciation of the humanities, to enhance civic life in the Commonwealth. The Mass Humanities Board of Directors selects nominees who are confirmed by Gov. Charlie Baker.
(Natural News) Within the first 20 minutes of its public release, a new video from Project Veritas exposing Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Mn.) as an election thief racked up more than 100,000 views, suggesting that the house of cards known as the Democrat Party could be tumbling down before our very eyes.

In it, a ballot harvester in Omars district is seen paying people cash to vote for Democrats. As explained by Project Veritas founder James OKeefe, these paid ballot harvesters purchase registration forms for absentee ballots from voters, fill them out, then come to collect them after voters fill them out for Democrats.

The tape youre about to see shows a man buying a registration form for an absentee ballot from a voter giving him pocket money of $200 and expecting to collect his ballot when the voter receives it, OKeefe states during the videos introduction.

You can watch this latest Project Veritas release at this link.

This cash for ballots scam was created, at least in Minnesota, by Omar, who appears to have utilized it for her own election win. And it is still being used today to pack the Minneapolis legislature with Omar-connected crooks who are openly breaking the law and could not care less.

We dont care illegal, one Omar-connected ballot harvester is heard stating while exchanging $200 for an illegal ballot. We are taking the money and well vote for you.

This same ballot harvester instructs the illegal voter about how to fill out the form, then hands him money from his pocket like some kind of drug deal.

More related news about Democrat election corruption can be found at Corruption.news.

Another illegal voter in Omars district paid $800 for ballot

Osman Ali Dahquane, another illegal voter, is seen admitting in the footage that he was allegedly paid $800 for his ballot. Dahquane states openly that he does not care if what he is doing is illegal because it pays good money.

Dahquane is then heard speaking in another language, which as translated by Project Veritas supposedly suggested that he owed someone named Al-Shabaab, who is tied to the terrorist group Al-Qaeda, money.

[Omar] is the one who came up with all of this, another woman, identified as a former organizer for Omar, is also heard stating in the footage.

This video release comes on the back of another that also shows prolific voter fraud in Omars Minneapolis district. That one, as we reported, showed someone named Liban Mohamed bragging about having collected hundreds of illegal ballots in his car.

Numbers do not lie, he boasted. You can see my car is full. All these here are absentee ballots. Cant you see? Look at all these; my car is full.

Local police, which in some areas was recently defunded, has promised to look into the matter to get to the bottom of what is going on. The hope is that We the People, with the help of law enforcement, can hold criminals like Ilhan Omar accountable for violating the sacred election process.

Treason used to get you a firing squad, wrote one Breitbart News commenter in response to the videos. I miss those days.

We have PLENTY of proof that shes guilty of election fraud, and also fraud regarding her immigration status, wrote another about Omar. She also lied under oath when sworn into Congress!

Send her packing right back to Mogadishu, Somalia! this same commenter added. Before shes dropped off in her 3rd world country, tell her somebody did something and its called corruption. Thats all, Omar! Now, enjoy your mud hut in Somalia!

Sources for this article include:

Breitbart.com

Twitter.com

NaturalNews.com
Governor Presents Lexmark with U.S. Department of Defense Freedom Award "Lexmark has a long history of success and innovation in the Bluegrass, and that clearly extends to the companys enlightened leadership, which supports its workers and all of our people with a strong military," said Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear.

Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, was honored at the Kentucky State Capitol by Gov. Andy Beshear, on behalf of Secretary of Defense Mark Esper and the U.S. Department of Defense. Lexmark was recognized with the 2020 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award for its sustained commitment to U.S. military veterans and active Guard and Reserve service members.

The award was accepted by Lexmark President and CEO Allen Waugerman and David Jenkins, who leads Lexmarks IT Strategic Project Management Office. Jenkins, who nominated Lexmark for the award, is a brigadier general and serves as assistant adjutant general for the South Carolina National Guard.

The U.S. Department of Defense named Lexmark one of 15 recipients of the 2020 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. The award is the highest recognition given by the U.S. government to employers for their support of employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve.

"I am proud to recognize these 15 outstanding civilian employers," said Secretary of Defense Mark T. Esper in the Department of Defense announcement. "The citizen warriors of the National Guard and Reserve have evolved from a strategic reserve to become an integral component of the operational force. Having employers that support their military service is critical to their success and the success of our national defense strategy."

It is my great honor as Governor of the Commonwealth of Kentucky to recognize Lexmark International Inc. as one of this years recipients of the Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award, Gov. Andy Beshear said. The Kentucky National Guard and Reserves are indispensable assets, and its soldiers are proud members of communities throughout Kentucky. Lexmark has a long history of success and innovation in the Bluegrass, and that clearly extends to the companys enlightened leadership, which supports its workers and all of our people with a strong military.

Freedom Award recipients were selected from more than 2,600 nominations received from Guardsmen and Reservists highlighting how their civilian employers went far beyond what federal law requires to support them. The Freedom Award began in 1996, and there have only been 295 honorees to date.

"Lexmark values the leadership skills veterans bring to the table and recognizes the partnership that inherently exists with the Reserve Components of the U.S Armed Forces," said Jenkins. "From Captain to Flag Officer, through deployments and international expatriate assignments, Lexmark has enabled me to advance and realize my potential as a leader in both corporate America and the Army National Guard. I could not maintain the high tempo demanded of my military service without the unwavering advocacy and support of my colleagues at Lexmark."

"We are honored to receive the Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award," said Waugerman. "Lexmark takes great pride in supporting the communities in which we live and serve, and acknowledge the personal sacrifices made by veterans, reserve component personnel still serving, and their families. We are pleased to be recognized as a company that is committed to honoring the sacrifice and commitment of National Guard and Reserve forces."

Lexmark has also been named a Military Friendly Employer for the fifth consecutive year, receiving the esteemed Gold designation for 2021. Lexmarks scores exceeded the Military Friendly standard in all measured categories including Recruiting & Sourcing; Policies & Compliance; Support & Retention; Culture & Commitment; Opportunity & Advancement; and Hiring & Onboarding. The Military Friendly Company survey identifies those whose commitment to serving the military and veteran community is comprehensive in scope and meaningful in terms of actual outcomes and impact.
Decatur authorities are looking for a person they believe set a fire Tuesday at a community events center.

Decatur Fire and Rescue responded to a call of a building fire Tuesday at 9:05 p.m. in the 2000 block of Lowery St. S.W. Investigators later determined the fire was intentionally set.

Video surveillance from the scene shows a man walking up to the building with two gas cans.

Anyone with information about the incident or the identity of the subject is asked to contact Det. Sean Mukaddam at (256) 341-4617 or Decatur Fire Marshall Jason Jones.
Photo: (Photo : Kaboompics on Pixabay)

A man was reunited with his wedding ring that he lost on a UK beach. All thanks to the 11-year-old girl who found it and tracked him down.

Like Cinderella getting reunited with her glass slippers, Matt Eastley got his wedding ring back after losing it at a beach and thinking he will never see it again.

He didn't notice that the ring slipped off his fingers

Eastley, 54, and his wife Lisa have been married for 15 years. Last August, the couple, together with their daughter, Alice, visited Ventnor Beach while on vacation on the Isle of Wight. It was there where he lost his wedding ring.

He said that they were splashing about in the sea when a big wave hit them, BBC reported. That was when the wedding ring slipped off his finger. He didn't notice at first that the ring was gone. The wave also sent his daughter's glasses flying, but they were able to recover it later.

Eastley described the moment when he realized he lost his wedding ring as devastating. "It is irreplaceable," he said. Still, he did make plans of having the band replaced thinking that he may not find it anymore. However, before the left, he asked the help of the cafe owner on the beach to keep a lookout hoping that the ring would somehow turn up.

An 11-year-old would find the ring the next day

The wedding ring did turn up the next day. Priya Sahu, an 11-year-old girl who was also vacationing in the Isle of Wight with her mom found the ring in the sand on Ventnor Beach. Priya, who attends secondary school at King Edward VI in Southampton, Hampshire, said she found the ring while looking for seashells under the sand.

"What's this?" she asked herself after seeing a shiny thing on the ground. She told her mom about the ring that she found. Aswita Sahu, who is an artist from Southampton, wasn't really interested at all thinking it was "probably just a fake ring." Speaking to Daily Mail, Mrs. Sahu recalled that Priya thought how magical it would probably be if they would be able to find the owner of the wedding ring. And so she decided to help her daughter locate the wedding ring's owner.

Cinderella moment

Mom and daughter began their search by contacting friends and friends of friends. Luckily, they got connected to the owner of Toni's Tea Rooms; the owner immediately contacted Eastly to let him know that a ring has been found. Mrs. Sahu then contacted Eastly and asked for his finger measurement, to make sure that they will return the ring to the right owner.



They then arranged to meet in Watts Park, Southampton to have the wedding band returned. Eastley described the moment of getting the ring back as a "glass slipper in Cinderella." While he was devastated losing the ring, getting it back felt wonderful and life-affirming. It is a really happy ending, he said. What happened certainly "put a smile on my face."

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Scott Disick didn't look too great in the latest teaser for this week's Keeping Up With The Kardashains episode.

Kim Kardashian is styled in pale pink and white as she is seen walking in the house of Kourtney Kardasinan's ex partner Disick when he begins to discuss his poor health.

'This feeling of exhaustion came out of nowhere and I really can't seem to shake it,' said the father of three. 'I am kind of like worried about it.'

Could he have COVID-19? Scott Disick told Kim Kardashian in the latest teaser for the next episode of KUWTK that he is tired all the time; she hints he could possibly have the coronavirus

Sleepy Scott: 'This feeling of exhaustion came out of nowhere and I really can't seem to shake it,' said the father of three. 'I am kind of like worried about it'

The teaser begins with a shot of the back of Scott's large white home in Calabasas, California.

'Knock knock,' says Kim as she walks into the house flipper's living room.

'Ready to go? Are you ready to go down those vegetable aisles?' asks the Selfish author as she hints they are going to a grocery store.

His digs: The teaser begins with a shot of the back of Scott's large white home in Calabasas, California which has a swimming pool

She's here: 'Knock knock,' says Kim as she walks into the house flipper's living room

She talks to SD: Kardashian is styled in pale pink and white as she is seen walking in the house of Kourtney Kardasinan's ex partner Disick when he began to discuss his poor health

'I would rather just stay home,' says Scott who looks like he has not slept in days. He has on a black sweatshirt and does not move from the couch.

Kim shoots back: 'You're backing out?'

Then Lord Disick, as he calls himself, says, 'I am just tired.'

The wife of rapper Kanye West asks what are the symptoms for the novel coronavirus.

Let's go! 'Ready to go? Are you ready to go down those vegetable aisles?' asks the Selfish author as she hints they are going to a grocery store

No thanks: 'I would rather just stay home,' says Scott who looks like he has not slept in days. He has on a black sweatshirt and does not move from the couch

'I don't think I have that,' answers Scott without naming any symptoms.

The episode was filmed in March when the virus was just starting to get talked about in the US even though there were thousands of fatalities in China already.

'I mean you are tired a lot,' said Kim, who was now sitting on the sofa.

Disick is seen in an interview saying that it 'came out on the news' that corona was a problem and 'everyone was starting to get sick.'

Concerned: Kim shoots back: 'You're backing out?' Then Lord Disick, as he calls himself, says, 'I am just tired.' The wife of rapper Kanye West asks what are the symptoms for the novel coronavirus

Worries: The TV vet added that he did not travel to Paris for Fashion week - which took place from February 24 to March 3 - because of it. 'I was worried about it, you don't know who has it and who does not,' he said

The TV vet added that he did not travel to Paris for Fashion week - which took place from February 24 to March 3 - because of it.

'I was worried about it, you don't know who has it and who does not,' he said.

'This feeling of exhaustion came out of nowhere, I really can't seem to shake it. I am kind of like worried about it.'

See a doc! 'You need to get your blood drawn,' said Kim. Her doctor has given her magnesium in the past, she explained as an example for how good he is, adding the doctor was really 'specific'

Just do it: 'I don't want to go to a doctor and hear something is seriously wrong,' said a scared Scott. Kim then comes off as very sensible as she adds, 'Well wouldn't you rather know? If you find out in the earliest stages you have a chance to get better. Information is key,' adding if he 'waits too long' he is 'screwed'

He said he 'really doubted' it was coronavirus. 'I don't feel sick I just feel tired. I don't feel like this is what a normal 36-year-old should feel like.'

'You need to get your blood drawn,' said Kim. Her doctor has given her magnesium in the past, she explained as an example for how good he is, adding the doctor was really 'specific.'

'I don't want to go to a doctor and hear something is seriously wrong,' said a scared Scott.

Glam all the time: Kim had her hair slicked back with beige lipstick on and winged liner as she modeled a beige top and white slacks

A different Scott: In his sit-down interview, Scott looked much healthier with a tan

Kim then comes off as very sensible as she adds, 'Well wouldn't you rather know? If you find out in the earliest stages you have a chance to get better. Information is key,' adding if he 'waits too long' he is 'screwed.'

Scott said he has put his 'vessel through a lot of trauma already,' hinting at his issues with addiction: 'I'm not gonna lie,' he adds.

Kim had her hair slicked back with beige lipstick on and winged liner as she modeled a beige top and white slacks. The star, 39, sipped from a cup of to-go coffee, flashing long beige nails.

Scott, who split from Sofia Richie this summer, was in all black as he sat on a gray sofa.
The yet again pulled up the city government for not using its actual testing capacity, noting that Delhi can conduct 15,000 RT-PCR tests per day while actual number of tests being done is still around 11,000.

"Delhi has the capacity of conducting 15,000 tests per day through RT-PCR mode... 4,000 RT-PCR tests per day are not being utilised, which does not make any sense when cases of Covid-19 infection during the period between September 14, 2020 to September 27, 2020, remain in the range of 3,500-4,000 cases per day with only one exception on September 20 when the positive cases reported were 2,548," said a division bench of Justices Hima Kohli and Subramonium Prasad.

The court further noted that the report of Sero Surveillance-3 reflects a reduction of the IgG antibodies' seroprevalence from 28.7 per cent to 25.1 per cent.

"The seroprevalence has declined in northwest and central districts but has increased in west, south, northwest and east districts," it said.

As per the report submitted to the court, the seroprevalence was found to be more in females during the three rounds of Sero Surveillance and least in those aged 18 to 49 years, as compared to those aged below 18 years and above 50 years.

"The conclusion in the Sero Surveillance-3 report is that there is a need to enhance the focus on sample representativeness of the survey in the central, northeast and north districts," the court said.

In its report filed before the court, the city government said that Geospatial Delhi Ltd has incorporated the changes made in the draft map, in terms of the feedback received from various districts and the said map of available testing in Delhi was received by the on September 28.

"The map mentions a total of 320 testing sites in Delhi. The said map has been shared with DMRC for being displayed at permanent locations/sites at all major Metro Stations. It has also been sent to the Delhi State Mission and uploaded on various websites of the Delhi Government," the order noted.

The also told the high court that providing access to Covid-19 testing through Mohalla Clinics and Community Centres is under the active consideration of the Expert Committee constituted by the Lt. Governor. "But no final decision on the way forward for capacity building and ramping up the overall testing strategy in Delhi has been taken," the government, represented by Additional Solicitor General Sanjay Jain and Additional Standing Counsel Satyakam, submitted.

While posting the matter for further hearing on October 7, the high court has asked the ASG to inform the court of the date finalised for commencing the next Sero Surveillance in Delhi.

"Since we are informed that the Expert Committee is actively involved in re-strategising the testing capacity as also reviewing the overall strategy required to be followed by the and request has been made to await the said recommendations, list on October 7, 2020," said the court.

The directions came as the court was hearing a PIL filed by advocate Rakesh Malhotra seeking increasing Covid-19 testing numbers in the national capital and getting speedy results.

--IANS

anb/vd

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
HARTFORD  The Senate on Thursday put the finishing touches on a bill to create more oversight for the states utilities, following the controversial, prolonged power outages after Augusts tropical storm .

During a special session following a House vote Wednesday night, senators voted 35-0 to send to Gov. Ned Lamont a bill that would give electric customers up to $250 in reimbursements for lost food and medicines for power outages that last 96 hours or more.

It would create a variety of new standards for utilities, including the staffing of linemen and tree-trimming crews, as well as enhanced communication with local officials during outages. During the August tropical storm, town and city officials throughout the state complained of a communications breakdown with utilities including Eversource and United Illuminating.

Ladies and gentlemen, it is time to put the ratepayers ahead of the shareholders, said Sen. Norm Needleman, D-Essex, co-chairman of the legislative Energy & Technology Committee. This is an important first step. There will be more. He described executives at Eversource, like United Illuminating a regulated monopoly, as a little bit tone-deaf during negotiations over the last two months.

Paul Formica, R-East Lyme, ranking member of the energy committee, said that between a new price hike in July and the seriousness of the storm, lawmakers agreed that a new path forward was needed, including greater transparency in electric bills. What is the plan for the next 10 years? Formica asked.

I believe this bill starts that conversation, Formica said, stressing that the legislation would offer a cooperative way forward for ratepayers, regulators and customers alike. Its time for the utilities to take it to the next level and treat ratepayers with the respect they deserve.

Formica and Needlemen agreed that since the historic storms of 2011 that prompted a massive state investigation, it seems that electric utilities became much-worse in communicating with local officials during the power-restoration process. This is one of the places where I believe that Connecticut can lead the way, Needleman said. We want them to be judged on an array of things that will improve customer outcomes throughout the state.

This is not a regular free-market business, said Sen. Craig Miner, R-Litchfield, recalling the August storm. This is a utility. The electric bills have risen and the delays for restoration went on for a long, long time in northwestern Connecticut.

Were not here by choice, said Sen. Carlo Leone, D-Stamford. Were here because our constituents demanded us to act.

Sen. Matt Lesser, D-Middletown, said the Take Back Our Grid Act was needed, because the massive restructuring act of 1998, which put UI and the Eversource precursor Connecticut Light & Power out of the generation business, never succeeded in lowering rates or increasing competition.

Lesser said Eversource drastically cut the number of line workers, opting to bring in out-of-state contractors during emergencies, but they are unfamiliar with Connecticuts grid.

Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff, D-Norwalk, a former chairman of the energy committee, said that part of the problem with regulating Eversource is that it operates in three states, while UIs service areas is confined to areas around New Haven and Bridgeport.

It is a difficult beast to slay from one states perspective, Duff said of Eversource. Duff complained that during the August storm aftermath, he and other state lawmakers became the liaisons with utilities because the usual lines of corporate communications failed totally, leaving mayors and first selectmen literally in the dark.

Senate Minority Leader Len Fasano, R-North Haven, in one of his final speeches on the Senate floor before retiring, first offered, then withdrew an amendment that would separate the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority and the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.

He recalled that the same problems of nine years ago re-emerged in August. Fasano warned that while the state wants to foster renewable energy sources, lawmakers think they can also keep rates low while trying to meet goals of reducing carbon emissions. He said that PURA was set up to keep lawmakers from having to go on the record in voting for customer rate hikes.

Lets not say renewables are needed, but we dont want to talk about the realm of consequences, Fasano said.

Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney, D-New Haven, summing up the bill, said the storm gave lawmakers a sense of urgency. This will align financial incentives with performance metrics of the ratepayers, Looney said. Our utilities are not financially incentivized for their ratepayers.

In a related development, Attorney General William Tong on Thursday called on UI and Eversource to do the right thing and offer compensation to families who suffered losses when their refrigerators lost power during the prolonged August outage.

While this law does not retroactively apply to the Isaias outages, there is absolutely nothing stopping these companies from providing immediate compensation to Connecticut families who lost hundreds of dollars in food and medicine, Tong said.

Tricia Taskey Modifica, spokesperson for Eversource said the company appreciated the interest of lawmakers.

The legislation passed tonight includes performance-based regulation which we believe will benefit our customers, she said. This new approach will hold us accountable if we fall short in meeting certain standards, and will acknowledge when we exceed the standards, which we believe will result in better service for our customers. The legislation also includes an important provision that affirms PURAs ability to adopt storm performance standards based on industry best practices.

kdixon@ctpost.com Twitter: @KenDixonCT
Sometimes his optimism proved badly naive. He supported the United Statess invasion of Iraq. The New Yorker writer Lawrence Wright notes that when Khashoggi interviewed a young Osama bin Laden, Khashoggi looked at bin Laden with stars in his eyes, and that he became disillusioned later on. The actor Nasser Faris reads Khashoggis writings as narration throughout, and Khashoggis assessment of bin Laden after bin Ladens death in 2011  You were beautiful and brave in those beautiful days in Afghanistan, before you surrendered to hatred  is misleadingly overlaid on footage of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks, as if the remarks were written years earlier.

Rowleys impressive access, and the films brisk contextualization of relationships and political alliances, can make it difficult to assess how much weight to accord each statement, or to decide what to think of Khashoggi  which may be part of the point. Shortly after the movie has walked us through Khashoggis grisly killing, it is jaw-dropping to hear David Rundell, a former American diplomat who served in Saudi Arabia, say that Saudi Arabia is a strategic ally, and I do think that outweighs the death of one person.

But the films primary virtue is in presenting many friends and colleagues of Khashoggi who illuminate his ideals, ventures and personal relationships  which is useful, because, as the human rights activist Mohamed Soltan puts it, Jamal chose what information he shared with each person. Khashoggis international life, often lived warily, means that no one documentary could capture the full picture.

Kingdom of Silence

Not rated. In English and Arabic, with subtitles. Running time: 1 hour 38 minutes. Watch on Showtime.
State health officials confirmed another 510 coronavirus cases on Wednesday, bringing the statewide total to at least 129,753.

Officials also announced 32 new COVID-related deaths, bringing the statewide death count to 9,242.

Wednesdays data is based on 14,404 new molecular tests, according to the Department of Public Health. There are currently 438 patients hospitalized with COVID-19, including 89 people in intensive care.

The seven-day average of positive tests has increased to about 1%; the three-day average of COVID deaths, the three-day average of hospitalizations and the number of hospitals using surge capacity have all increased as well.

There has been an average of 516 new COVID cases per day in Massachusetts over the last week, which represents an increase of 49% from the average two weeks prior, according to a New York Times analysis.

On Tuesday, a new study published in New England Journal of Medicine showed that Cambridge-based Modernas vaccine candidate not only produced antibodies to neutralize the coronavirus, but showed no serious side effects in older adults after it was administered.

Wednesdays statistics come as local and state officials respond to an uptick in cases across the state. Boston Mayor Marty Walsh said on Wednesday cases are increasing in most Boston neighborhoods, adding that the city wont be moving into Step 2 of Phase 3 of Gov. Charlie Bakers reopening plan.

Baker announced on Tuesday that communities with lower rates of infection can take that next step in the process beginning Oct. 5.

Several colleges and school districts with hybrid models are reverting to remote learning following new outbreaks on campuses and large gatherings. Some of the gatherings, such as a recent party that drew dozens of Milton teens, have not been verified as COVID-19 magnets but prompted school officials to go remote as a precaution.

In North Andover, Merrimack College moved to go fully remote after a five students in a dorm tested positive for the virus.

In Springfield, Health Commissioner Helen Caulton-Harris said infections are rising again, noting that the trend appears to be linked to people not wearing masks, socially distancing or isolating.

A recent cluster of COVID-19 cases on Nantucket island have been linked to a church gathering, officials say. After months of low case numbers, the island is now one of 15 communities labeled high risk for coronavirus transmission.

Boston University said on Tuesday that it will begin disciplinary hearings after nearly two dozen students were at an outdoor party over the weekend reportedly not following university-mandated COVID-19 guidelines, including gathering size, masks and social distancing. The college also announced that it is canceling spring break next semester due to coronavirus concerns.

The Centers for Disease Control has issued a warning ahead of Halloween recommending people avoid activities like indoor parties or haunted houses, where people will be crowded together, trunk-or-treat events where candy is handed out from cars parked together and going on hayrides or tractor rides.

Here are the number of coronavirus cases in each Massachusetts county:

Barnstable County: 1,786

Berkshire County: 716

Bristol County: 10,114

Dukes County: 64

Essex County: 20,031

Franklin County: 412

Hampden County: 8,283

Hampshire County: 1,251

Middlesex County: 27,624

Nantucket County: 104

Norfolk County: 10,338

Plymouth County: 9,777

Suffolk County: 24,479

Worcester County: 14,471

Unknown location: 303

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YEREVAN, Armenia: Two French and two Armenian journalists were injured Thursday in the South Caucasus separatist region of Nagorno-Karabakh, where heavy fighting between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces this week marked the biggest escalation in years of the decades-old conflict.

The two Le Monde reporters were wounded in morning shelling in the town of Martuni, the newspaper said. Armenias Foreign Ministry said they were being taken to a hospital and accused Azerbaijan of bombarding the region.

A cameraman with the Armenia TV channel and a reporter with the Armenian 24News outlet also were injured in the Martuni shelling, Armenian officials said. It was unclear how badly the four journalists were hurt. A Russian journalist with the independent Dozhd TV channel was reported to have reached a bomb shelter safely.

Clashes broke out Sunday in Nagorno-Karabakh, a region within Azerbaijan that has been controlled by ethnic Armenian forces backed by the Armenian government since the end of a separatist war a quarter-century ago. Fighting has continued unchecked since then, killing dozens and leaving scores wounded. Armenian and Azerbaijani forces blame each other for continuing attacks.

The two ex-Soviet nations have been locked for decades in a conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh, where a separatist war was fought in the early 1990s, ending in 1994 three years after the breakup of the Soviet Union. The 4,400-square-kilometer (1,700-square-mile) enclave in the Caucasus Mountains, roughly the size of the U.S. state of Delaware, lies 50 kilometers (30 miles) from the Armenian border.

Soldiers backed by Armenia occupy the region as well as some Azerbaijani territory outside of it.

The president of Azerbaijan said Armenias withdrawal from Nagorno-Karabakh was the sole condition to end the fighting. Armenian officials claim Turkey is involved in the conflict, allegedly sending fighters from Syria to the region and deploying Turkish F-16 fighter jets to assist Azerbaijnai forces.

Turkey has publicly supported Azerbaijan in the conflict and said it would provide assistance if requested but denies sending in foreign mercenaries or arms.

Continued fighting in the turbulent region prompted calls for a cease-fire from around the globe and raised concerns of a broader conflict potentially involving other regional powers.

The office of French President Emmanuel Macron said in a statement that he and Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed the issue in a phone call Wednesday night and both share concern about the sending of Syrian mercenaries by Turkey to Nagorno-Karabakh." Macrons office did not elaborate.

The Russian Foreign Ministry on Wednesday expressed concern over reports about militants from illegal armed groups" from Syria and Libya being sent to the conflict zone in Nagorno-Karabakh. It didnt provide further details, but in a statement urged the leadership of the states concerned to take effective measures to prevent the use of foreign terrorists and mercenaries in the conflict.

Macron said he and Putin urged restraint and agreed upon the need for a joint effort toward a cease-fire, as part of international mediation efforts for Nagorno-Karabakh led by Russia, France and the U.S.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Thursday refused to comment on Turkeys alleged involvement in the conflict, but said that any statements about military support for one of the (opposing) sides can provoke further escalation of tensions in the region.

We believe that any participation of third countries in this confrontation can also have extremely negative consequences," Peskov said.

___

Angela Charlton in Paris and Daria Litvinova in Moscow contributed to this report.

Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor
LONDON, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Beeline, a global leader in software solutions for managing the non-employee workforce, today announced the launch of its EMEA Strategic Partner Certification Programme  the result of a focused effort to strengthen its global network of Managed Service Providers (MSP) and deliver unparalleled service to clients using Beeline software solutions to source and manage contingent labour. The Partner Certification Programme evaluates, qualifies, and connects a community of MSPs who can meet Beeline's high standards for quality, value, and customer service.

"Our European clients expect a consistent brand experience when they use our technology worldwide," said Manuel Roger, Beeline's managing director, Europe. "By ensuring our partners know how to exercise all the capabilities of our unique talent-focused VMS solutions, we can make sure that they can deliver the best possible service and added value to our mutual clients."

The Beeline Strategic Partner Certification Programme is only available to selected Beeline MSP partners. The certification includes robust vendor management system (VMS) technology training, as well as a joint implementation methodology. Each strategic partner collaborates with Beeline's professional services organisation to develop a streamlined implementation process. This methodology will be reviewed on an ongoing basis to identify areas of improvement and share an understanding of processes, procedures, and documentation.

In addition, each strategic partner's team participates in client service workshops which review and align both organisations' support processes to ensure continuous improvement. These sessions further enhance the partner's usage of Beeline's innovative technology and provides customers the confidence of knowing the service and technology companies that support them are closely aligned and jointly committed to the success of their programme.

"Our strategic partners are identified based on the high caliber of their work, the depth of their experience, their capacity to handle complex projects and, most important, their professionalism," said Roger. "We are confident that this certification program will help strengthen our alignment with the best MSP organisations in Europe for the best benefit of our customers."

About Beeline

For more than 20 years, Beeline's software solutions have enabled organisations to source and manage their non-employee labour to achieve workforce flexibility. Our solutions, supported by the world's deepest, most experienced team of contingent workforce specialists, control costs, mitigate compliance risks, enhance workforce visibility, improve efficiency, and increase productivity.

Human capital expense is typically the largest single cost of doing business. We help our clients automate the entire contingent staffing process so they can utilise an agile mix of employee and non-employee talent to reduce fixed costs and adapt quickly to market threats and opportunities. To learn more, visit beeline.com.

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The SNPs Margaret Ferrier acknowledged today that there is no excuse for my actions after revealing her journey while positive with the virus.

She said she took a test on Saturday afternoon after experiencing mild symptoms, meaning she should have self-isolated, before travelling by train to London on Monday.

This was wrong, and I am very sorry for my mistake, the MP for Rutherglen and Hamilton West said.

Ms Ferrier spoke in the coronavirus debate in the House of Commons on Monday and, by her account, tested positive for Covid-19 that evening.

I travelled home by train on Tuesday morning without seeking advice. This was also wrong and I am sorry.

I have been self-isolating at home ever since, she said.

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The MP said she has notified the police of my actions and has informed the test and trace system and the Commons authorities.

Despite feeling well, I should have self-isolated while waiting for my test result, and I deeply regret my actions.

I take full responsibility and I would urge everyone not to make the same mistakes that I have, and do all they can to help limit the spread of Covid-19, she said.
Young people who were already deemed most at risk became the most disconnected from youth services and supports as a result of Covid-19.

Thats according to a research report, A Review of the Youth Work Sector Response to the Covid-19 Pandemic, published today by the National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI).

The findings show thousands of young people missed out on the supports they would normally receive from local youth services as a result of Covid-19. Of 256 services surveyed for the report, 14% were unable to provide a service during lockdown, impacting on approximately 6,900 young people.

The report, produced by researchers Deborah Erwin and Lorraine Thompson using a combination of quantitative and qualitative research tools, highlights how the Covid-19 pandemic made it more difficult for youth services to engage with at risk or marginalised young people. 67% of youth workers surveyed cited this as a key limitation of the move to online models of working.

The challenges of delivering youth services digitally are highlighted in the research report, with key findings including:

Almost one in four youth projects surveyed experienced difficulties with the switch to digital youth work because young people did not have adequate digital access.

Similarly, 24% found staff lacked the requisite digital skills.

17% of survey respondents expressed concerns about safeguarding mechanisms not being in place for digital service delivery. Safeguarding concerns were a particular issue in relation to work with younger age groups, with youth workers highlighting the challenge of trying to connect with younger age groups where these young people might often be reliant on going online via a parents device and / or might be below the legal age limit for social media platforms.

68% of survey respondents cited young peoples reluctance to engage digitally as a major challenge.

Commenting today, Mary Cunningham, CEO of NYCI, said: Over the past six months, youth workers have shown their creativity, flexibility and commitment in numerous ways. However, the research shows clearly that  despite the strenuous efforts of youth services  young people who were already most at risk became the most disconnected during the pandemic. Young people already experiencing poverty, for example, became even more isolated.

While highlighting the challenges faced by the youth sector, the report also points to good-practice examples of youth services that responded proactively and effectively in the face of the pandemic. Examples cited include:

Foroiges Feed Your Body, Fuel Your Life initiative, which was launched as a social media campaign to encourage young people to focus on mind, body and soul, addressing self-care through music, art, craft, design and food.

BelongTo, which conducted an LGBTI+ Life in Lockdown survey, in which almost 300 LGBTI+ young people from all over Ireland participated.

What youth workers and projects have managed to achieve in the midst of a global crisis is highly impressive and commendable, said Mary Cunningham.

What is important now is for the youth sector to get into a stronger position to meet the current and emerging needs of young people in the face of challenges arising from the pandemic.

The NYCI research report was officially launched at an online event today by Roderic OGorman TD, Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.

Commenting on the report, the Minister said: The youth work sector plays a vital role in supporting young people nationwide  particularly young people who are at risk and marginalised.

This research clearly shows that youth services throughout Ireland have gone above and beyond to maintain contact and continue to provide supports to the young people with whom they work. I would like to commend the youth work sector on their responsiveness and commitment to date.
The Ghaziabad police on Thursday morning arrested three members of a gang allegedly involved in robbery after a brief shoot-out in Kavi Nagar Industrial Area.

The shoot-out, investigators said, took place when the suspected robbers opened fire at a police patrol team which had launched a raid in Kavi Nagar area The police team fired back in self defence and later arrested all three suspected robbers, two of whom had sustained gunshot injuries.

Investigators said that the three men were involved in cash loot from an ATM in Vasundhara in August.

The three suspects were identified as Kamruddin, Shahrun and Usman  who all go by single names and are residents of Mewat region in Haryana. The cops said that Kamruddin and Usman were serving life sentences at a jail in Delhi in connection to a gangrape incident of 2010 and had come our on parole during the month of March. They later went missing.

The three men are part of gang which conducts recce at different locations and target ATMs and shops to loots cash or valuables. On the night of August 31 they had targeted an ATM at Vasundhara locality and fled with cash after cutting through the machine with the help of gas-cutter. The bank having the ATM has not given us the amount of cash lost during the incident, but our assessment is that it is between Rs 4-5 lakh, said Abhishek Verma, superintendent of police (city).

During the Vasundhara robbery, the men had entered the ATM and sprayed black paint over the CCTV cameras to disable them before cutting through the machine and fleeing on cash. During the incident, they used a Santro car which was captured on one of the CCTVs in the locality during investigations.

During an early morning check, the three men in the same Santro car were captured on a CCTV in Kavi Nagar. A raid was conducted but they opened fire at the police. We fired back and two of them sustained gunshot injuries to their legs. We have recovered Rs 40,000 in cash, gas-cutter machine and cylinder, besides the spray which they used to blind CCTVs during their robberies. We have also recovered several mobiles, which they stole from several shops during an incident at Shastri Nagar and Avantika on the night of July 22, Verma, added.

According to investigators, suspect Kamruddin has 16 cases of heinous crime against him at Delhi, Haryana and Ghaziabad, while Shahrun and Usman have 12 and nine cases, respectively, against them.
Coronavirus super-spreaders were behind the explosion of Covid-19 in India, the country with the most cases after the US, researchers said.

A group of patients that included about 8% of Indias confirmed cases later led to almost two-thirds of its total infections, scientists said Wednesday in a study published in the journal Science. The research, based on tracing more than 3 million contacts in the southern states of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu through August 1, is the first major study of transmission in a developing country.

Follow live updates on the Covid-19 pandemic here

While most research on the pandemic has come from China, Europe and North America, cases are now burgeoning in India and other developing countries, according to researchers led by Ramanan Laxminarayan, director of the Center for Disease Dynamics, Economics & Policy who wrote the study. Barriers to health care are greater in these nations, and the risk of getting severely ill and dying from Covid is higher, they said.

Weve never had this degree of information to say, hey, some people are really transmitting the virus in a massive way, Laxminarayan said in an interview. In contrast with the super-spreader minority, 71% of confirmed cases whose contacts were traced werent found to have spread the virus to anyone.

A nationwide serological survey showed that one in 15 Indians have been exposed to the coronavirus. Hospitals in several states are now struggling to secure medical oxygen, needed to assist patients with trouble breathing on their own.

Data for the Science study were gathered by thousands of contact-tracers during Indias lockdown, when mass gatherings were banned, schools were closed and people were ordered to wear face masks in public. Almost 130 million people live in the two Indian states, accounting for about 10% of the countrys population. India has recorded more than 6.2 million Covid-19 cases.

Prolonged Close Contact

Both states reported their first SARS-CoV-2 infections on March 5. Health workers traced as many as 80 contacts per confirmed case, using skills and resources honed from routinely tracking potential transmitters of HIV and tuberculosis, Laxminarayan said.

Prolific SARS-CoV-2 transmitters tended to spread the virus during prolonged close contact on buses and other forms of transportation, according to the researchers, who were also from Princeton University, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, and Indian state governments. In such settings, there was a 79% chance of an infection occurring.

That compares with only a 1 in 40 chance of catching the virus from someone in the community who wasnt a household member, Laxminarayan said. Children under 14, though, were found to be frequent silent spreaders of the virus, especially to their parents and peers.

This shows that even without schools being functional, children-to-children transmission seems to be quite important, he said. As terrible as it is to say -- with two kids at home myself -- its actually important to keep the kids home.
President Nana Akufo-Addo has questioned former President Mahamas credibility on the latter's claim to expand the Free Senior High School programme to include private schools if re-elected to the Presidency in the December 7 polls.



According to the President, John Mahama and the NDC, has since the NPP's announcement of its intention to roll-out such an initiative, doubted effectiveness of the Free SHS policy.



Speaking exclusively on Hello FM with King Edward de Slave, he explained that the NDC government has over the years spurned every credible policy that will help alleviate the hardship of Ghanaians.



"The NDC then in opposition during Kuffours era vehemently kicked against the Health Insurance Policy and this same NDC is giving us an option for free SHS.



"First of all, has he come to the realization of the free SHS policy? If he has, then he should prove his credibility on the policy.



"But for me, I still doubt his credibility on the free SHS policy because he has never given us any alternative policy than to kick against it as he has always done from day one," President Akufo-Addo stated.



Free SHS has come to stay  Mahama



The flagbearer for the opposition NDC, John Dramani Mahama says contrary to opinions that he will scrap the Free Senior High School policy introduced by the governing NPP when voted into power, free Senior High School education has come to stay.



Clarifying his stance, the former President said he is not against the policy but rather against the implementation process which he claims has caused parents, students, and teachers great inconvenience.



Free Senior High School education has come to stay. If anybody tells you that I, John Dramani Mahama, will abolish Free SHS when I come into power tell the person he is a bloody liar, Mr Mahama said.



Earlier this month, at the launch of the NDCs manifesto at the University for Professional Studies in Accra, on the theme Peoples Manifesto: Jobs, Prosperity and More, the flagbearers running mate, Prof Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang noted that the second-cycle schools in the private sector also need to be rolled onto the national policy in the next NDC government.



We plan to make the Free SHS more inclusive by expanding it to cover students in private Senior High Schools in under-served and deprived parts of the country, she added.



The Free SHS, introduced in September 2017, meant that the fees of every child in Ghana, who gained admission to a public Senior High School, will be absorbed by the government.



It also meant free tuition, admission, textbooks, library fees, science center fees, fees for ICT, examination fees, utility fees, boarding, and meals.



This, the government believes, will remove any cost barrier that prevents students from achieving their educational goals.



Listen to President Akufo-Addo in video below







Source: Isaac Kwame Owusu/Peacefmonline.com/[email protected]









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By Jason Lange and Steve Holland

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Donald Trump's re-election campaign on Thursday rejected calls for new rules to govern the next two debates between him and Democratic challenger Joe Biden but said the president planned on participating in the events.

Following Tuesday night's debate in Cleveland that saw Trump regularly interrupt and talk over both Biden as well as the moderator, the presidential debates commission said it would adopt changes to allow for a "more orderly discussion." The next debate is scheduled for Oct. 15 in Miami.

There was immediate speculation that could include a mute button to limit the interruptions that plagued the initial encounter between Trump and Biden.

"We dont want any changes," Trump senior campaign adviser Jason Miller said on a conference call with reporters.

He added Trump plans to attend the second and third debates ahead of the Nov. 3 election. But campaign officials did not respond to a question about whether the president would agree to abide by the existing rules.

"Why would I allow the Debate Commission to change the rules for the second and third Debates when I easily won last time?" Trump asked in a tweet on Thursday.

Both campaigns agreed to the rules of Tuesday's debate, which had envisioned six 15-minute sections in which each candidate had two minutes to answer a question without interruption before beginning a back-and-forth.

The face-off on Tuesday triggered widespread criticism of Trump and, to a lesser extent, Biden. The Republican president repeatedly bullied Biden and questioned his intelligence, while the Democratic nominee called Trump a racist, a liar and the worst president ever.

In a statement on Wednesday, the debates commission said it would announce changes to the debate format soon.

Biden campaign spokesman Andrew Bates said the former vice president would participate in upcoming debates under the rules laid out by the debates commission.

Story continues

"The only real question left is whether the President will start following the rules in the next two debates," Bates said in an email.

BIDEN MAINTAINS POLL LEAD

With little over a month to go before the election, the two candidates are fighting for the small slice of the electorate that remains undecided, with a new Reuters/Ipsos poll showing most voters have already made up their minds.

Biden leads Trump in most national opinion polls, but the polls also show that the two are neck and neck in several states that could determine the winner of the contest.

In a Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted nationwide from Tuesday through Thursday, 50% of likely voters said they were backing Biden, while 41% said they were voting for Trump. Four percent said they were voting for a third-party candidate and 5% were not sure. Eighty-seven percent of likely voters said they were now "completely certain" about their choice for president, according to the poll.

The campaign is playing out against disputes over mail-in balloting during the coronavirus pandemic. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, a Democrat, charged two conservative political operatives with felonies on Thursday for allegedly trying to discourage people from voting by mail.

Nessel's office said the two men were behind computerized phone calls to nearly 12,000 people in Detroit and other urban areas, in which a recording made false claims that people who voted by mail could be subject to more scrutiny by police and by credit-card companies seeking payment.

Trump has said repeatedly without evidence that a shift to universal mail-in voting would lead to fraud in the November election. Millions of Americans have cast absentee ballots by mail for years without such problems.

More than 2 million voters have already cast ballots, with a surge of early and mail voting expected this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

(Reporting by Jason Lange and Steve Holland; Editing by Scott Malone, Alistair Bell and Peter Cooney)
Defence officials today confirmed the British Army is about to launch a major logistics exercise but denied it was a preparation for military action on Iraq.

Operation Log Viper will see up to 6,000 regular troops and Territorial Army reserves shift equipment and supplies to an RAF base in Suffolk and a military port near Southampton.

The exercise, which gets under way on Sunday, has been planned for many months and will end on October 12, a Ministry of Defence spokesman said.

The move comes as the MoD adamantly denied reports today that advance parties involving up to 30,000 British troops would start to be deployed to Kuwait over the next two weeks.

The Daily Telegraph reported three British armoured division, including the Desert Rats, are about to be sent to the Gulf in readiness for possible military intervention against Saddam Hussein.

It also reported that all RAF leave has been cancelled as the number of aircraft in the region is about to be tripled.

But a MoD spokesman said: "There is absolutely no truth in that whatsoever. It is pure speculation and there are no plans for the deployment of troops."

The news comes as Foreign Secretary Jack Straw said military action against Saddam Hussein's regime will be less likely if the Iraqi dictator readmits United Nations weapons inspectors and gives up his weapons of mass destruction.

He told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "What I know, and what I think the whole of the UN knows, is that the only way to get those weapons inspectors back into Iraq and to ensure that Iraq is free of weapons of mass destruction is by the complete and united resolve of the UN, led by the Security Council, and clarity that if the weapons inspectors are not allowed back, then the will of the UN has to be enforced by other means which inevitably would mean military action."

Parliament is to be recalled on September 24 to discuss the growing crisis over Iraq after US President George Bush warned that Saddam Hussein's regime had to strip itself of weapons of mass destruction or be ousted.

Prime Minister Tony Blair formally requested the recall of MPs and peers after talks with Liberal Democrat leader Charles Kennedy and Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith.

Downing Street announced that the dossier the Government is publishing on Saddam's regime will be available to MPs from 8am on that day.

Chancellor Gordon Brown yesterday backed Mr Blair's tough stance on Iraq in his first public comments on the issue.

Meanwhile Mr Bush told the United Nations General Assembly in New York yesterday that the regime in Baghdad represented "a grave and gathering danger" to global peace and security.

He accused Saddam of sheltering and supporting terrorist organisations directing violence against the West and claimed that al Qaida members were hiding in Iraq.

And he warned that if Iraq succeeded in acquiring fissile material from abroad, it could build a nuclear weapon within a year.

Speaking the day after the first anniversary of the terrorist attacks that decimated New York, Washington and Pennsylvania, President Bush laid down a challenge to the UN, saying that Saddam's continuing defiance of Security Council resolutions relating to his weapons of mass destruction meant that the UN itself faced a "difficult and defining moment".

He demanded: "Are UN resolutions to be honoured and enforced or cast aside without consequence?"

In Britain, Operation Log Viper is being launched to test the capabilities of the 101 Logistics Brigade based at Aldershot, Hampshire.

Troops will move all forms of vital supplies from clothing and petrol to ammunition and medical supplies to RAF Woodbridge in Suffolk and the military port at Marchwood near Southampton.

The MoD spokesman said: "This is an exercise that has long been planned to test our logistics capabilities."

Asked if it would be fortunate to have the supplies in place should action be launched on Iraq, the spokesman added: "That is speculation. There are no plans on that front and this exercise will stop on October 12 when the troops will return to their base."

The last major exercise by the Armed Forces, Saif Sareea II in Oman last year, ended with servicemen and women staying behind to join the war on terror in Afghanistan.

The Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Illustrious sailed from the Arabian Sea off Oman to the Gulf, with a small battle group, to support operations against Afghanistan.

In addition, hundreds of Royal Marines involved in the joint exercise with the Omani forces also stayed behind in the region.

A military expert said Operation Log Viper, despite being pre-planned, would now be a vital exercise for the Ministry of Defence and should serve as a warning to Saddam Hussein.

Ian Kemp, news editor of the specialist Jane's Defence Weekly, said the developments surrounding Iraq could not be ignored.

He added: "The MoD is going to view it (Operation Log Viper) as an extremely important exercise.

"It also sends a clear message to the Iraqi government that Britain does have this sort of capability and can put it in to practice."

Mr Kemp said Operation Saif Sareea II will also still have an important role if ground troops are deployed in the Gulf once again.

He said the lessons learnt then will be vital as the deployment of land forces was very different to air or naval forces.

He said Operation Log Viper was also likely to build on any lessons from Saif Sareea II.
President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally at Duluth International Airport in Duluth, Minn., on Sept. 30, 2020. (Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images)

Trump Declares National Emergency Backing Domestic Mining, Will Reduce Reliance on China for Critical Minerals

President Donald Trump on Sept. 30 signed an executive order that seeks to ramp up domestic production of critical minerals such as rare earth elements to support mining jobs in the United States, in a bid to reduce the nations reliance on Beijing.

China is currently the top global producer of the specialized minerals, used to build electronics, military weapons, and other high-tech equipment. Last year, 80 percent of rare earths imported by the United States came directly from China.

The presidents executive order declares a national emergency in the U.S. mining industry and asks the Department of the Interior to look into implementing the Defense Production Act to fund mineral processing that protects our national security.

In a release, the White House said the order will slash unnecessary delays in permitting actions, providing Americans with job opportunities, and improving economic and national security.

We will put our miners back to work, Trump said.

Federal agencies will also be authorized to probe and work to reduce reliance on other nations for imports of minerals.

The President will continue to protect our domestic supply chains for critical minerals from predatory Chinese action, a White House statement said.

Rare earths are an obscure group of 17 minerals, and there are no known substitutes for them.

Trump signed the rare earth mining executive order as he made his way to campaign stops in Minnesota. Last month, Trump told supporters during a campaign visit to the state that his administration would set up tax credits for U.S. companies that shift their manufacturing facilities from China back to the United States as he seeks to reduce reliance on Beijing and rebuild American manufacturing.

He also said his administration would strip federal contracts from companies that outsourced work to China, vowing to create 10 million jobs in 10 months, in part through his economic plan.

More recently, the president raised the prospect of decoupling the U.S. economy from Beijing during his second term to bring back manufacturing jobs from China and key supply chains back to the United States.

The Defense Department was ordered by the White House last year to ramp up domestic production of samarium cobalt rare earth permanent magnets over concerns Beijing could restrict exports of the goods. They are often found in precision-guided missiles, smart bombs, and military jets.

While the United States used to be the leading producer of the minerals, China currently commands a lions share of the market after it displaced competitors by strategically flooding the global market over the last few decades.

Since gaining this advantage, China has exploited its position in the rare earth elements market by coercing industries that rely on these elements to locate their facilities, intellectual property, and technology in China, the executive order states.

For instance, multiple companies were forced to add factory capacity in China after it suspended exports of processed rare earth elements to Japan in 2010, threatening that countrys industrial and defense sectors and disrupting rare earth elements prices worldwide.

Trumps executive order also aims to reduce the vulnerability of the United States to the disruption of critical mineral supply chains through cooperation and coordination with partners and allies, including the private sector.

Separate mineral-related legislation has been introduced by two Republican senators in the past year or so, but they havent been passed so far.

Reuters contributed to this report.
It seems Bulgaria lifted Quarantine / PCR test from people arriving from Turkey.

I am trying to find a way to make it to Sofia. From my research, Rental cars are not allowed to cross Turkey to Bulgaria. People correct me if this info is outdated.

And I also can't find a running bus / train from Istanbul to Sofia.

Any suggestions other than flying? We are a family of 4 so flying will be really expensive and won't be considered.
BSP chief Mayawati demanded if CM Yogi can't handle UP then either Centre should make someone else CM or impose President's rule in the state. She further said that the two incidents in Hathras and Balrampur reminded her of the Nirbhaya case.

Criminals, mafias and rapists are having a free run under the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led Uttar Pradesh government said Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Thursday after a gang-rape case was reported from Balrampur, following closely on the heels of the Hathras incident. She demanded that the Centre impose Presidents Rule in the state as the Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath-led government had failed to protect the women in the state.

After Hathras incident, I hoped the Uttar Pradesh government will take action. But a similar crime has been committed against a Dalit student in Balrampur. Under BJPs UP government, criminals, mafias and rapists are having a free run, Mayawati told ANI here. The BSP chief said that the incidents had shaken her to the core and therefore she had decided to talk to the media, in an attempt to wake up the Centre if the UP government isnt waking up. She also raised questions on the actions taken against criminals in UP in the past few years.

Especially the girls coming from the Dalit community are not at all safe, she added, further condemning the attitude of police and administration with the family members of the Hathras gang-rape victim. On September 28, I sent a BSP delegation to meet the victims family member. When they reached the police team kept them in the police station, they then called the victims mother and brother to the police station and the cops stayed constantly by their side while the delegation held talks with them, she added. The BSP chief said that the administration not handing over the victims body to the family members to pay respects and performing the last rites was a very shameful incident. If this is not jungle raj, then what is this? Mayawati said.

Also Read: Hathras politics: Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra to meet victims family today

She further said that the two incidents in Hathras and Balrampur, reminded her of the Nirbhaya case of New Delhi. She also said that financial compensation, jobs being given to the victims family would not stop the crimes against the community and women. I want to tell the Centre that the UP government is not waking up. Yogi Adityanath is not fit to control law and order, therefore, I want to tell the Centre that they might have made him the Chief Minister under pressure from RSS but he is not fit to run the government efficiently in UP, Mayawati said. She said that it would be better if Yogi Adityanath is sent back to the Gorakhpur Math or to Ayodhya, where the Ram Janmabhoomi temple is being constructed, by the BJP.

In his place, a more capable person should be made CM who can give better law and order to the UP residents. I want to tell Prime Minister that he has been chosen (as an MP) from UP only, he should take care of the state. If Yogi cant handle UP then either make someone else CM or impose Presidents rule in the state, Mayawati said. The BSP chief further asserted that the leadership needs to be changed immediately in the state. The UP government has faced backlash after another Dalit woman lost her life due to gang rape in Balrampur district, a day after the cremation of the Hathras gangrape victim, who had succumbed to her injuries, was conducted by the administration.

Also Read: Another Hathras in UP, 22-yr old gang-raped, succumbs enroute to hospital
JEFFERSON CITY  Missouri lawmakers may have to put their campaigns on hold in the coming days for a return trip to the Capitol.

With the clock ticking down to the Nov. 3 election, Gov. Mike Parsons administration is working with legislative budget writers on a supplemental budget proposal aimed at ensuring the governor can manage any future influx of federal pandemic aid.

In a briefing Wednesday, Parson said the special session would be scheduled simply to make sure if we do get more federal money that we have the ability to use that money when it gets here.

Were working with the legislators every day to try and come up with solutions to that, Parson said.

The move to bring lawmakers back to town carries political ramifications.

Republicans who control both the House and Senate could be concerned about the outcome of the governors race as they craft a supplemental budget. If Auditor Nicole Galloway, a Democrat, wins, she would then be able to control the spending of the money.

And, there is no guarantee Congress and President Donald Trump will find agreement on a new stimulus package.

Democrats have pushed for $2 trillion of aid for state and local governments, while the White House is seeking $1.5 trillion.

Parson spokeswoman Kelli Jones said a special session for a supplemental budget is not dependent on whether a new federal stimulus bill is passed by Congress.

Since the time that the state operating budget was approved in May, the state has received several additional federal grants as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act that were not included in the original budget.

Additionally, as a result of changing federal guidance, we also feel that additional authority is needed to expend current funding from the CARES Act, Jones said.

According to Galloway, Missouri has received $2.7 billion in federal coronavirus stimulus funds and spent $1.6 billion, leaving more than $1 billion unspent.

Counties and the city of St. Louis have received a total of $539 million, with another large chunk going to the states Medicaid program.

The states public universities also have received large outlays of aid, including $33 million to the University of Missouri and $6 million to Missouri State University.

On Friday, Parson is expected to announce another round of education funding, including federal stimulus dollars for the states private colleges and universities.

Unlike the governors special session on violent crime that lasted for two months in the summer, a special session on budget issues is expected to be a shorter affair.

The states $30 billion budget has been rocked by the pandemic, with Parson withholding nearly $450 million in spending to account for a decrease in tax revenue.

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After students were found partying, Natick Public Schools are issuing new fines in attempt to keep students safe during the coronavirus pandemic.

Fines of $300 will be given to families from Natick Public Schools who dont truthfully fill out a daily health form saying their children dont have COVID-19 symptoms or havent come into contact with anyone that might have the virus, the Tauton Daily Gazette reported.

The fines follow a shift from the hybrid option to high school students attending school remotely for at least two weeks because students attended parties over the past few weekends, the newspaper reported. At least 50 students also failed to self-quarantine after being exposed to people who tested positive for COVID-19.

College and high school students have continued to party despite warning across the state.

School officials decided to move school to a remote option after a recent party that drew dozens of Milton teens. Boston University said that it began disciplinary hearings after nearly two dozen students were at an outdoor party and reportedly not following university-mandated COVID-19 guidelines.

But its not just schools.

Boston Mayor Marty Walsh asked people on Wednesday to not host house parties while watching the Patriots-Chiefs game.

Health Commissioner Helen Caulton-Harris said infections are rising again in Springfield, which appears to be linked to people not wearing masks, socially distancing or isolating.

There are also fines for those who do not comply with the governors order could face a fine of $500 per day. The travel order first took effect Aug. 1.

And Natick Public Schools wants to take the pandemic just as seriously.

We want people to take this seriously, and we will take it to the level to make sure they are safe, Superintendent Anna Nolin told the Tauton Daily Gazette.

Although, it is unsure who or how the fines will be enforced, the newspaper reported.

Related Content:
CEDAR KNOLLS, N.J., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program (NJMEP) has been awarded $1.5 million in state funding to expand its services, beginning in 2021.

The state budget signed by Governor Murphy on Tuesday, calls for $1.5 million to be invested in NJMEP to help stimulate job growth  especially in underserved communities, including to industries re-engineering to make PPEs and to help domesticate the New Jersey supply chain in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic activities. The program led by NJMEP, which plans to also use these funds to open a southern New Jersey operation to make sure this training and jobs program is equally effective throughout the state.

The center's extensive engagement with the state's manufacturers and the resulting economic impacts and Return on Investment were key in obtaining the state funding. NJMEP has a history of high marks within the national program's performance metrics, and in the first six months of 2020, the organization ranked as the number one MEP center in the country. More significantly, the center has helped its clients collectively achieve more than $4.31 billion in economic impact in New Jersey.

"NJMEP assisted over 3,700 New Jersey manufacturing, STEM, and supply chain firms during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through collaboration and constant support from the Legislative Manufacturing Caucus, we saw an astonishing 30:1 Return on Investment over the past 6 months," said John W. Kennedy, Ph.D, CEO, NJMEP.

"We are very thankful to the New Jersey Legislators, including those on the Legislative Manufacturing Caucus, the Labor and Budget Committees and to Governor Murphy. "The tireless efforts of the NJMEP Board and staff and their commitment to strengthening New Jersey manufacturing puts the state and economy in a position to grow and prosper in 2021 and beyond. This State support will allow NJMEP to continue increasing the competitiveness of our state's manufacturers as well as providing professional development programs to New Jersey residents, especially those in underserved communities," continues John W. Kennedy.

About NJMEP: NJMEP is a private, notfor-profit organization that improves the profitability and competitiveness of New Jersey's manufacturers. Backed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), NJMEP enables organizations to enhance their productivity and efficiencies, reduce costs, and improve employee performance. For more than 20 years, NJMEP has used its extensive network of connections and proven track record of success to help manufacturers adapt to the latest innovative technologies and best practices to realize more than $4.31 billion in value. Our services are categorized into the following three areas: Operational Excellence, Innovation and Growth Strategies, and Workforce Development. NJMEP also has a signature philanthropic program, Manufacturing Cares, which is designed to provide a platform for manufacturers to give back to the community by pooling efforts to increase our impact.

SOURCE New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program

Related Links

njmep.org


As expected, this week President Trump nominated Notre Dame law professor and federal appellate Judge Amy Coney Barrett to fill the seat on the Supreme Court vacated by the late Ruth Bader Ginsburg. While most Democrats and the Biden campaign have focused on the proximity to the election or Barretts strong conservative tendencies on issues like abortion and health care, others have chosen to focus on her faith and family, which they see as being outside the mainstream. A devotional group she belongs to was falsely accused of having inspired the book and television show The Handmaids Tale, while others focused on the size of her family or the fact that two of her children were adopted internationally from Haiti.

Adoption is a complicated enough topic even without adding race into the mix. That hasnt stopped commenters like Ibram X. Kendi, author of the acclaimed book How To Be an Antiracist, from jumping into the fray on Twitter, where he wrote that Some White colonizers adopted Black children. They civilized these savage children in the superior ways of White people, while using them as props in their lifelong pictures of denial, while cutting the biological parents of these children out of the picture of humanity. Meanwhile, transracial adoptive parents like the National Reviews David French, who wrote a controversial piece in 2018 about his family, have weighed in on the subject as well.

Yet few people seem to ask those who understand the situation best: those of us with Black or brown skin who have been raised by white parents.

Like Judge Barrett, my parents came to be adoptive parents through involvement in the pro-life movement. Adoption agencies like Bethany Christian Services will often reach out to like-minded churches, and a visit to my parents' congregation served as a religious calling to live out their Christian faith through action.

 READ MORE: Should Supreme Court justices have term limits? | Pro/Con

Through fostering, my parents had learned that they were the type of people who could easily love children who were not their own biological children. They had also learned sad lessons about race and adoption, some of which were surprising to them. One was that it is easier to find adoptive parents for white children than it is for nonwhite children. Very few white parents expressed interest in nonwhite children, and the first transracial adoption was not even recorded until 1948. One can imagine that this effect was even stronger in the 1980s, a time when most white Americans told pollsters that they would not approve of a relative marrying someone of a different race.

Yet for my family, the attitude was different. They felt confident that they could love and raise a child of any background, because they already had. My sister, a third grader at the time, summed it up for an agency-created questionnaire: When we get the babies, we fall in love with them. But they stay usually for a little while. When we get this baby, we will have it forever. It will be very different, especially to my friends.

Today, interracial marriage, transracial adoption, and multiracial families are not nearly the taboo that they were when I was adopted. This has led to a corresponding increase in scrutiny, often from those professing antiracist and anticolonial worldviews. For those of us who are actual transracial adoptees, the rhetoric of Kendi and others puts people like me and Judge Barretts adopted children in an awkward position, asked to choose between the families that raised us and love us to this day, and advocates who claim to advance the cause of equality for nonwhite America, a group we also belong to and whose interests matter deeply to us.

After all, while being raised by parents of a different background does mean a different cultural upbringing than a child might otherwise have had, it does not change the way the world perceives this child as they get older.

Being raised by white parents did not prevent my younger brother from being stopped, frisked, and taken to a police station for hours simply because he looked suspicious while walking home from work, still wearing his ShopRite uniform. When he was a little boy with my parents and our van was stolen, the police offered a ride home. On his own as a teenage Black boy, he was told to find his own way home, despite being taken miles away from where he was initially brought in.

 READ MORE: Stop and frisk still plagues Philadelphia | Opinion

This dichotomy can indeed be difficult to navigate, especially for children. Other children are rarely hesitant to ask whatever questions occur to them, and adoption is still relatively rare, which can often spark curiosity. All adopted children deal with awkward questions and unfortunate jokes about telling younger siblings that they were adopted, but for transracial adoptees, explaining yourself and your background was almost an inevitable consequence of anyone meeting your parents. In the 1990s, the only other transracial adoptees my brother and I knew were children of friends my parents had met at an event for their adoption agency.

In addition, while my parents did seek to teach us about Black American culture, it was a little bit like learning how to play piano while being taught by the math teacher. A lot of things that my parents could not understand because they themselves had never been taught slipped through the cracks, and we had to learn for ourselves, as my brother did when he was detained.

These cultural differences are what naysayers like Kendi are pointing to when they criticize transracial adoption. Yet for the vast majority of adoptive parents, choosing a nonwhite child has nothing to do with any racial fantasies, colonialist or otherwise, and everything to do with the sad realities of adoption in America.

There are challenges and difficulties involved in transracial adoption, [but] as a product of the system, I cannot help but look at it as what it is: kind-hearted people doing their best to help a broken situation. Dan Pearson

Nonwhite children, and Black children, in particular, are harder to place in adoptive homes. As my father said in response to the agency questionnaire: It is our desire to provide a home for a child who is hard to place because of the color of his/her skin. In my case, interest in adopting a biracial boy was so low in 1980s Allegheny County, where I was born, that the agency rushed to get in contact with my parents, all the way on the other side of the state. My placement had taken longer than any of the children my parents had fostered in Philadelphia.

So while I certainly acknowledge that there are challenges and difficulties involved in transracial adoption, as a product of the system, I cannot help but look at it as what it is: kindhearted people doing their best to help a broken situation.

Becoming an adoptive parent happens for various reasons. Some families are unable to have children of their own. In cases like the Barrett family and my own, it is the result of a religious calling. These parents often adopt transracially, because they are the least picky about which children they bring into their families and they feel confident in their ability to open their hearts to a unique kind of family experience. According to research, conservative Catholics and Evangelicals who support transracial adoption have more liberal attitudes on same-sex marriage and adoption, and race, only fully aligning with other conservatives on the issue of abortion.

When Democrats interrogate Amy Coney Barrett, they should not be surprised if, instead of the colonizing zealot that critics fear, they find a lawyer and mom of deep compassion and a faith that inspires her to bring love to others.

Dan Pearson is the biological son of a Black mother and a white father. He was raised in Philadelphia.
A Kilkenny resident has been appointed director of pharmacy across all UPMC facilities, including hospitals and cancer centres in Waterford, Kildare and Cork.

Long-time UPMC Whitfield pharmacist Catherine Kelly, MPharm, is the first to serve in this new role. Ms Kelly is responsible for implementing a strategic vision for UPMCs approach to pharmacy that promotes evidence-based models of healthcare delivery while driving continual, cost-effective improvements in patient care.

In the constantly growing and evolving world of pharmacy, Im excited to play a bigger role in ensuring the best and safest treatments and pharmacy practices for our patients, she said.

Ms Kelly has been part of the UPMC Whitfield team for nearly 12 years. She previously served as a senior pharmacist and the hospitals chief pharmacist. In her new role, she will continue to work with UPMCs growing service lines, including medical oncology and cardiology, and support the expansion of UPMCs clinical research in collaboration with the University of Pittsburgh and other academic institutions in Ireland.

In her time at UPMC Whitfield, Catherine has demonstrated her desire and ability to innovate on behalf of our patients, said David Beirne, UPMC International senior vice president and managing director of UPMC in Ireland.

Her skills and knowledge will be critical to delivering best-in-class pharmaceutical solutions across all of our operations.

Ms Kelly received her masters degree in pharmacy from the University of Brighton after completing her undergraduate degree at the University of Dublin. She began her career in retail pharmacy and went on to work on the HIV unit at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital in London and in psychiatry at St Patricks University Hospital in Dublin before joining UPMC Whitfield.


Annual Report June 2020

Ballarat, Oct 1, 2020 AEST (ABN Newswire) - White Rock Minerals Ltd ( ASX:WRM ) is an Australian minerals exploration and development company with activities focussed on two projects: Red Mountain and Mt Carrington.Red Mountain zinc - silver - gold ProjectThe 100% owned Red Mountain Project is located in the Bonnifield District of central Alaska. The Company is exploring for Intrusion Related Gold System (IRGS) mineralisation and high-grade zinc and precious metals volcanogenic massive sulphide (VMS) deposits.IRGS exploration is focussed on the Last Chance gold target located within the Tintina Gold Province, host to giant gold deposits including Donlin Creek (45 Moz Au), Fort Knox (13.5 Moz Au) and Pogo (10 Moz Au), which are all Cretaceous aged IRGS deposits.VMS exploration is focussed in the East Bonnifield District within the Yukon-Tanana Terrane. There are already two high-grade zinc-silver rich deposits with an Inferred Mineral Resource of 9.1 million tonnes @ 12.9% ZnEq for 1.1Mt of contained zinc equivalent.The Company has secured a significant land package (798km2) that incorporates regional-scale potential around the exciting Last Chance gold target and the majority of prospective VMS stratigraphy associated with the Dry Creek and West Tundra Flats deposits where there are many lookalike conductivity targets and numerous historic VMS prospects.The 2019 field season focused on exploring the VMS potential. At the end of the field season drilling tested a 250 metre down-dip step out from known high-grade zinc - silver - lead - gold mineralisation of both the Fosters and Discovery lenses at the Dry Creek deposit. Mineralisation was successfully intersected with 1.4 metres including massive sulphide containing abundant sphalerite (zinc sulphide) located within stratigraphy equivalent to the Fosters lens. Assay results for this intersection returned 1.4m @ 13.9% zinc, 4.4% lead, 115g/t silver, 0.8g/t gold & 0.3% copper for 21.6% ZnEq from 524.6m. The drillhole was abandoned due to ground conditions prior to reaching the lower Discovery lens target. This deepest intersection in the Dry Creek deposit indicates a possible steeper dip to mineralisation than first interpreted, suggesting the deposit could be wide open down dip along its entire 1,200 metre strike length.The 2020 field season has focused on the Last Chance gold target, discovered in late-2019 from regional stream sediment sampling1. The first on ground exploration commenced mid-June 2020. Systematic soil geochemistry indicates the presence of a large mineralizing system with considerable gold anomalism distributed over a 6km strike and 1.2km width. Geological reconnaissance has identified a series of hydrothermal silica breccia bodies and associated narrow quartz veins associated with gold, arsenic and antinomy anomalism. Surface sampling has returned assay results including 77.5g/t gold and 4,580g/t (147oz/t) silver in rock chip samples and up to 7.1g/t gold in soil samples.Geological reconnaissance and surface geochemical results suggest that the Last Chance gold target lies within the upper brittle domain of a large orogenic and/or Intrusion Related Gold System. Hydrothermal silica breccia bodies with their associated gold-arsenic-antimony anomalism may represent upper leakage of hydrothermal fluids immediately above a zone of more favourable gold deposition.A maiden program of diamond drilling commenced late-July 2020.Mt. Carrington gold and silver ProjectMt Carrington is a 100% owned advanced gold-silver epithermal project located in the southern New England Fold Belt, northern NSW, Australia. A 2017 Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) into the "Gold First" development stage declared a Maiden Ore Reserve of 3.47 million tonnes at 1.4g/t gold for 159,000 ounces gold from within a Mineral Resource of 210,000 ounces gold. The gold pits are pre-stripped and there is considerable existing infrastructure including a tailings storage facility, freshwater dam, granted Mining Leases, access to State grid power and site office. The PFS financial metrics for this project are robust, especially in this strong gold price environment. An update to this PFS was done in August 2020 and using a conservative A$2,300 per ounce, the 2020 Gold First PFS financial metrics demonstrate a capital payback of just 14 months, an IRR greater than 80% and with free cash flow generated from the gold over its first 5 years of greater than A$120M.In addition, the overall Mineral Resource includes 341,000 ounces of gold and 23 million ounces of silver. With successful implementation of the Stage One gold development the Company will investigate a Stage Two operation to develop the silver deposits and remaining gold deposits. The Mt Carrington Mining Leases are enveloped by an Exploration Licence (183km2) with demonstrated potential for epithermal and intrusion-related gold, silver and copper mineralisation. White Rock has generated and refined an extensive exploration target portfolio at Mt Carrington since 2010.The Company undertook an update to the 2017 PFS during 2020 to reflect more recent gold price trends as well as current capital and operating cost projections to confirm the enhanced value proposition in advancing this asset through permitting and development. The updated financial and operating metrics allow the Company to complete a strategic review of Mt Carrington and select the best pathway forward to enhance shareholder value from this project in light of the very strong gold price environment. In addition, the large silver endowment will also be the focus of future development studies given the more recent strong silver price environment as well.White Rock's Board and Management team comprise a small group of highly experienced mineral industry professionals with global proficiency in exploration, project development, mining, business, corporate development and management.To view the Annual Report, please visit:About White Rock Minerals Ltd

White Rock Minerals Ltd (ASX:WRM) (OTCMKTS:WRMCF) is a diversified explorer and near-stage producer, headquartered in Ballarat, Victoria. The Company's flagship exploration project is Red Mountain in central Alaska. At Red Mountain, there are already two high grade zinc - silver - gold - lead VMS deposits, with an Inferred Mineral Resource of 9.1 million tonnes @ 609g/t AgEq / 13% ZnEq. The Company is also exploring its recently discovered large intrusion related gold anomaly at Last Chance, also located in the Tintina gold belt of Alaska, home to multi-million gold ounce deposits like Pogo, Fort Knox and the Donlin Project. The Company also has the Mt Carrington project, located near Drake, in Northern NSW, which is a near-production precious metals asset with a resource of 341,000 ounces of gold and 23.2 million ounces of silver on an approved mining lease, and with a Gold First PFS and JORC Reserve.
On the first question, he said, Heck yes, of course they did, siding with the unanimous conclusion of the intelligence agencies. As national security adviser, Mr. McMaster shared that view, including during a speech at the Munich Security Conference, leading Mr. Trump to chide him on Twitter. His aide, the president noted, forgot to say that the results of the 2016 election were not impacted or changed by the Russians. It was one of the issues that led Mr. Trump to begin to freeze him out, and to later replace him.

On the second question, Mr. McMaster said you can debate whether the Russians favored Mr. Trump in 2016. Like others, he said, the Russians expected Hillary Clinton to win, and they had a whole disinformation campaign ready to go to say that the election was rigged. Many believe that is what is happening now: that the Russians believe Joseph R. Biden Jr., the Democratic presidential nominee, will win, and that in an effort to diminish Mr. Bidens influence if he takes office, they are amplifying Mr. Trumps allegations that the election will be fraudulent.

And on the third question, whether the Russians influenced voters in 2016, Well never know that, Mr. McMaster said.

But Mr. Trump, he added, is focused on the third question and believes that if he confronts Putin directly, you know, he will inadvertently draw his own election into question.

Another prominent retired general who served under Mr. Trump has also been highly critical in recent months. The former defense secretary Jim Mattis, who often clashed with Mr. McMaster inside the White House, broke his silence after the president moved against protesters demonstrating after the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. I have watched this weeks unfolding events, angry and appalled, he wrote in June. Donald Trump is the first president in my lifetime who does not try to unite the American people  does not even pretend to try. Instead, he tries to divide us.

John F. Kelly, a retired four-star general who served as secretary of homeland security before becoming White House chief of staff, has also called into question the presidents judgment and character. But he declined to speak out when Jeffrey Goldberg of The Atlantic reported that the president had privately referred to American soldiers who were killed in combat as suckers and losers. Mr. Kelly's son, a Marine, was killed in 2010 in Afghanistan.
Moses Dani Baah has dethroned Bernard Mornah as the National Chairman of the Peoples National Convention (PNC).



For the flagbearship slot of the PNC, David Apasera has beaten Rev Samuel Adjei-Debrah and Sampson Asaki Awingobit.



The PNC held its congress Wednesday [September 30, 2020] to elect its flag bearer for the 2020 presidential election and national executive officers to steer the affairs of the party for the next four years.



Related: PNC elects flag bearer, officers



Graphic Online's reporter, Joshua Koomson who was covered the congress and was there when the results were collated Wednesday night reported that, for the flag bearer slot, David Apasera won overwhelmingly with 1315 votes as against Samson Awingobit's 789 votes and Rev Samuel Adjei-Debrah's 465.



For the National Chairman slot, Bernard Mornah got 1266 votes as against Moses Dani Baah's 1297 votes.



Janet Asana Nabla emerged as the General Secretary for the PNC with 1312 votes as against that of Kobe McDonald's 230 votes and that of Emmanuel Wilson Jnr's 1041 votes.



For the Vice Chairman slot, Henry Haruna Asante won with 1729 votes against that of Omar Ahmed Bekure's 635, Eugene T.K. Bashiru's 375 and Hajia Hajara Musah Ali's 946 votes.



Abass Nuhu was elected as the National Organiser with 1124 votes.



His competitors Ntow Desmond Twumasi and Daniel Nii Noi got 773 and 639 votes respectively.



Hidaya Sungjun was elected as the Women's Organiser with 1249 votes as against that of Esther Osei Danso's 736 votes, Adam Johnson Patience Lamisi's 317 and Hummi Sinare's 236 votes.



Before the voting, Graphic Online's Joshua Koomson reported that Bernard Mornah urged the delegates to elect individuals with character and dignity.



Joshua Bediako Koomson reported that the landslide victory against other two contenders, Mr Apasera, an experienced, having represented the people of Bolgatanga Constituency in Parliament for three successive terms (2000, 2004, and 2008) in his victory address promised to bring back life into the PNC which, he said over the years has suffered some set backs.



This is a great party, I joined in 1992 and I received invitations to join other parties but I made a choice for PNC because when I look at Dr Hilla Liman, who was overthrown for doing nothing wrong, I had to serve this party to honour his name, he said.



I am going to work hard to let Ghanaians know that PNC is a vehicle that can lead to the Jubilee House. We are hitting the ground at a fifth gear to be able to catch up with the others, he added.

Manner of congress



In conformity with the COVID-19 preventive protocols, the congress, unlike previously, was held simultaneously in all the 16 regions of Ghana.



The PNC Headquarters in Accra served as the collation centre where the results from the various regions were collated and announced by the Electoral Commission (EC).



The PNC, which follows in the Nkrumah-Egala-Limann tradition, had originally planned to hold the national congress earlier in the Western Region in honour of Ghanas first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, who is a native of the region.



The plan was rescinded due to the restrictions imposed on mass gatherings.



Congress guidelines



More than 4,000 delegates across the 16 regions were expected to participate in the exercise in their respective regions.



The election was from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., under the auspices of the EC.



#GhanaVotes2020

Source: graphic.com.gh









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MIAMI Commercial President Fernando Arencibia Jr. "Each topic of our first ever virtual Commercial Conference has been carefully chosen to help our members overcome challenges and leverage opportunities that have resulted from the pandemic"

MIAMI Association of Realtors Commercial (MIAMI Commercial) will bring together 15 top speakers to analyze commercial real estate opportunities during the global COVID-19 situation at its first virtual Commercial Conference on Friday, Oct. 9.

Adapt and Adopt is the theme of the conference as it aims to educate South Floridas commercial practitioners on how to succeed in the current commercial real estate market despite the challenges of COVID-19.

"Each topic of our first ever virtual Commercial Conference has been carefully chosen to help our members overcome challenges and leverage opportunities that have resulted from the pandemic, MIAMI Commercial President Fernando Arencibia Jr. said. The practical and relevant programming combined with the high caliber of our presenters makes this event a must for all commercial practitioners."

Conference topics include: a national economist speaking about adaptive reuse how to value your commercial brokerage business, a panel on industrial and warehousing, retail and office landlords and tenants, and a conversation with Miami restaurateur and master chef Nivel Patel. Patel, who was named among Food & Wine Magazines Best New Chefs 2020, is redefining Indian food and farm-to-table cooking at his pop-up and two Miami restaurants.

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The MIAMI Association of Realtors was chartered by the National Association of Realtors in 1920 and is celebrating 100 years of service to Realtors, the buying and selling public, and the communities in South Florida. Comprised of six organizations, the Residential Association, the Realtors Commercial Alliance, the Broward-MIAMI Association of Realtors, the Jupiter Tequesta Hobe Sound (JTHS-MIAMI) Council, the Young Professionals Network (YPN) Council and the award-winning International Council, it represents 52,000 total real estate professionals in all aspects of real estate sales, marketing, and brokerage. It is the largest local Realtor association in the U.S. and has official partnerships with 223 international organizations worldwide. MIAMIs official website is http://www.MiamiRealtors.com.
The presidents of France, Russia and the United States called on Thursday for an immediate ceasefire between Azerbaijan and ethnic Armenian forces around Nagorno-Karabakh, but Turkey said the three big powers should have no role in peace moves.

France, Russia and the United States are co-chairs of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europes (OSCE) Minsk Group, set up in 1992 to mediate in the decades-old conflict over the mountainous enclave.

They appealed for peace as the death toll rose in the heaviest clashes since the 1990s around Nagorno-Karabakh - part of Azerbaijan, but run by its mostly ethnic Armenian inhabitants.

We call for an immediate cessation of hostilities between the relevant military forces, the joint French, Russian and U.S. statement said.

They urged the former Soviet republics of Armenia and Azerbaijan to commit without delay to resuming substantive negotiations, in good faith and without preconditions under what is called the Minsk process.

But in a speech to the Turkish parliament just before the three countries statement, President Tayyip Erdogan said he opposed their involvement.

Given that the USA, Russia and France have neglected this problem for nearly 30 years, it is unacceptable that they are involved in a search for a ceasefire, Erdogan said.

He said a lasting ceasefire could be achieved only if Armenian occupiers withdrew from Nagorno-Karabakh.

His comments are likely to fuel tension with his NATO allies as fears mount that the conflict could draw in regional powers Russia, which has a military base in majority Christian Armenia, and Turkey, a close ally of mainly Muslim Azerbaijan.

MOUNTING DEATH TOLL

Dozens of people have been reported killed and hundreds wounded since Sunday in fighting that has renewed concern about stability in the South Caucasus, a corridor for pipelines carrying oil and gas to world markets.

Nagorno-Karabakh broke away from Azerbaijan in a 1991-94 war that killed 30,000 people, but is not recognised internationally as an independent republic.

Azerbaijan said at least three Azeri civilians had been killed in the latest clashes, taking the civilian death toll in Azerbaijan to at least 18. Azerbaijan has not reported on casualties among its military forces.

Nagorno-Karabakh has said 103 of its servicemen have been killed and more than 200 wounded but has given no figures on civilian casualties.

Armenia said two French nationals working for Frances Le Monde newspaper had been wounded during Azeri shelling of the town of Martuni in Nagorno-Karabakh, clarifying earlier confusion over the location of the incident. An Armenian government source said they were in grave condition.

French President Emmanuel Macron and Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed on the need for a ceasefire in a telephone call late on Wednesday. Their joint statement with U.S. President Donald Trump was issued hours later on Thursday.

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Washington: Former Trump campaign manager Brad Parscale is stepping away from his job at the campaign, officials say.

Parscale, 44, was admitted to hospital for his own safety on Sunday after threatening suicide while holding a handgun during a confrontation with his wife at his Florida home.

Demoted and later hospitalised: Brad Parscale former manager for President Donald Trump's 2020 campaign. Credit:AP

Parscale was campaign manager for almost three years until July, when he was demoted. He had come under scrutiny for his spending as campaign manager but had remained close to the Trump family.

"We hope only for the best for Brad and his family," campaign spokesman Tim Murtaugh said on Wednesday night.
New Delhi: In a development that will increase connectivity and economic development in north-east India and Myanmar, India on Thursday announced that the key Sittwe port in the Rakhine state of Myanmar will be operationalized in the first quarter of 2021, the period between January to March. The Sittwe port is called Chabahar of the east.

India's Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla during virtual Foreign Office Consultations between the two countries said, "Despite the challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, we are working towards operationalizing the Sittwe Port by the first quarter of next year. With respect to the 69 bridges on the Trilateral Highway, I am happy to inform you that we will soon be moving forward with the tendering process."

Port at Sittwe and IWT Terminals in Sittwe and Paletwa have been constructed with Centre's grant assistance in May 2017 at a cost of about USD 78 million. A Port Operator has taken over the port operations at Sittwe from February 1, 2020.

Sittwe is part of India built mega Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project. The project when completed, will improve connectivity with Myanmar, by creating a transport corridor for shipment of cargo from the eastern ports of India to Myanmar as well as to the North-Eastern region of India via Myanmar.

Myanmar delegation was led by Permanent Secretary, U Soe Han at the virtual meet that saw several other issues being discussed.

During the meet, Shringla highlighting the "strong civilizational links", talked about the work India has "undertaken with the restoration of the famous Ananda Temple and are working on the conservation of some earthquake-damaged pagodas in Bagan". He expressed hope that Phase  I will be completed "at the earliest which has been delayed due to the ongoing COVID pandemic."

On security cooperation, Shringla remarked how both countries "have remained sensitive to each others security concerns" and "Myanmars handing over of 22 Indian insurgents has been deeply appreciated by the India government and sends a strong message of deterrence to inimical elements on both sides".

It is interesting to note that Myanmar will be sending its representative to India's Information Fusion Centre for the Indian Ocean Region based in Gurgaon. The Fusion centre has detailed information on the developments in the Indian ocean.

On COVID-19 vaccine, he said, "We stand committed to sharing our capabilities with our strategic partners, including Myanmar, in our collective best interest."

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He also mentioned the Rohingya issue between Myanmar and Bangladesh saying, "Our efforts towards ensuring an early, safe and sustainable repatriation of internally displaced persons to Myanmar will continue."

India has entered into trilateral cooperation with Japan on the Rakhine State in Myanmar under which New Delhi will create soft infrastructure for 15 schools.
SNOQUALMIE, Wash. - At least 25 COVID-19 cases have been reported at the Salish Lodge & Spa in Snoqualmie, public health officials said Wednesday.

The outbreak involves 23 staff and two guests, according to a news release sent by Public Health - Seattle & King County spokeswoman Sharon Bogan.

Anyone who visited the popular lodge east of Seattle next to Snoqualmie Falls overnight or during the day from Sept. 16-30 should get tested for COVID-19 and monitor for symptoms, the news release said.

Salish Lodge & Spa is fully co-operating with Public Health to implement recommendations, is facilitating testing for staff and is currently closed, according to health officials. The Salish Lodge & Spa restaurants will be closed the week of Sept. 28, says a message on its website.

We have done everything possible to protect our guests and team members since the beginning of the pandemic, including elevating our health, hygiene, safety and sanitation protocols and following health agency guidance, Alan Stephens, General Manager of Salish Lodge & Spa said in the news release.

Stephens also said the entire facility will be sanitized.

State health officials on Wednesday reported 480 additional COVID-19 cases in Washington as of Tuesday night, and two more deaths, The Seattle Times reported.

The update brings the states totals to 87,522 cases and 2,126 deaths, according to the state Department of Health.
When the Ethics Board announced it would start enforcing the rules, it said the decision was in part because Lightfoots ordinance would apparently not pass. Sufficient time has now elapsed for any amendment process to have occurred; the board has now confirmed there will be no changes to (the statute), the boards ruling read in part.
Seoul, Oct 1 : In a letter to Chinese President Xi Jinping, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has pledged his "invariable" support to Beijing, a state-media report said on Thursday.

According to the report by Pyongyang's Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), the letter dated October 1 was sent to congratulate Xi on the 71th founding anniversary of China.

"The Supreme Leader also stressed in the message that he and the party and the people will invariably stand by the General Secretary (Xi), the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the Chinese people in the struggle for accomplishing the joint cause of defending and glorifying socialism gained at the cost of blood," Yonhap News Agency quoted the KCNA report as saying.

"The Supreme Leader in the message expressed his will to strive, together with the general secretary, to ceaselessly consolidate and develop the invincible friendship which has entered a new historical period," it added.

Between 2018 and 2019, Kim and Xi met five times.

The March 25-28, 2018 meeting was Kim Jong-un's first diplomatic trip abroad to meet a foreign leader since coming to power in 2011.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
OTTAWA - After being rushed through the House of Commons in a single day, a bill authorizing new benefits for workers impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic has hit a speed bump in the Senate.

Sen. Marc Gold, the governments representative in the Senate, was denied leave Wednesday to have the upper house deal with Bill C-4 on Thursday, after having an opportunity to question Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland and Employment Minister Carla Qualtrough about it.

Senators may yet hear from the two ministers on Thursday but they will not begin debating the legislation until Friday, barring further holdups.

Sen. Scott Tannas, leader of the 13-member Canadian Senators Group, said he was among a number of senators who denied the unanimous consent Gold needed to proceed with the bill Thursday.

And he said they did so to protest the fact that Gold has still not proposed a way for the Senate to resume its full functions during the pandemic, with all senators able to participate in debates and votes, either in person or virtually, as is being done in the House of Commons.

Since mid-March, the upper house has met only periodically for single-day sittings to pass pandemic-related emergency aid bills. For those sittings, only a small number of senators have attended, leaving the rest with no role to play.

The situation has been particularly hard on senators from Atlantic provinces, which have imposed travel restrictions on their residents during the pandemic.

Weve got to be the last chamber in all of the Westminster system that is still operating with no hybrid (format) or not even a glimmer of it, Tannas said in interview.

He said senators are also frustrated that the government is pressuring them to approve billions worth of aid legislation in a matter of hours and then go home and do nothing until the next emergency bill comes along. In the case of Bill C-4, he questioned the urgency, noting that applications for one of the proposed new benefits arent scheduled to open until Monday, and not until Oct. 11 for the other two.

We just thought today was a good day to provoke some conversation and see if we could get to the bottom of it and get a resolution, having satisfied ourselves that this would not put anybody in jeopardy in terms of the extension of benefits, Tannas said, adding its still possible to pass the bill on Friday or to hold a special weekend sitting to get it done.

Tannas said Gold has a motion for hybrid Senate sittings ready to go but has not introduced it because he wants to arrive at a consensus with all groups in the 105-seat upper house. Thats been stymied by the 21 Conservative senators, whom Tannas said continue to want everybody to be in the chamber and, if you cant be in the chamber, then you should take a sick day.

A motion for hybrid sittings can be passed without the Conservatives and Tannas said no one can figure out why Gold hasnt tried to proceed without them.

I dont know why. He knows full well that 80 per cent of us are ready to vote on it today.

Sen. Yuen Pau Woo, leader of the largest caucus group in the chamber, the Independent Senators Group, said his members are equally frustrated and mystified about why Gold has not introduced a motion on hybrid sittings.

This issue of hybrid sittings has been discussed for many months, Woo said in interview, adding that he supports Tannas efforts to force the issue.

Many of us were expecting that there would be a motion this week ... It surprises many of us that we havent seen such a motion being tabled.

Nevertheless, Woo stressed that ISG senators are committed to passing Bill C-4 this week.

In a written statement, Gold said that he fully supports the implementation of a hybrid approach as soon as the Senates internal administration reaches a state of operational readiness.

He said much progress has been made to make hybrid sittings possible this fall but declined further comment since discussions among Senate leaders are ongoing.

Opposition MPs have expressed similar frustration about the short time theyve been given to deal with emergency aid legislation.

Conservatives and Bloc Quebecois MPs voted Tuesday against the governments bid to fast-track Bill C-4 through the Commons. With the support of the NDP, the government was nevertheless able to speed up passage of the bill, which was eventually approved unanimously in the wee hours of Wednesday morning.

Conservative and Bloc MPs took shots Wednesday at the NDP as they explained why they supported the bill after vigorously opposing the manner in which it was sped through the Commons.

This is a minority government, not a coalition government, Conservative House leader Gerard Deltell said. We have to keep that in mind and I hope that the NDP will continue to do their job. They are there as an opposition party and they have to do opposition work in the House of Commons.

Deltell said Conservatives ultimately supported the bill because, in the big picture, we are talking about Canadian workers.

They need some support. Canadian business, they need some support. So this is why we approved the bill at the end of the process.

Bloc Quebecois Leader Yves-Francois Blanchet echoed that position, saying the principles of the legislation are pretty good.

Yet both he and Deltell continued to complain about the fast-tracking, with Blanchet saying the Liberals decision to rush the aid package was a blow to democracy, robbing MPs of a chance to analyze and possibly improve the bill.

We were not given time to proceed with the analysis and the improvements that this law might have received because the government decided for some particular reasons or purpose that  it was important enough for the government to impose the shut-up procedure, Blanchet said.

NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh shot back that New Democrats supported the bill only after forcing the government to make changes that will help millions more Canadians. And he mocked the other two opposition parties for complaining that the NDP fought to get help to people too quickly.

We fought and we won for Canadians, Singh said.

The Conservatives and the Bloc have done nothing. Throughout this pandemic, theres not a single win they can point to that theyve helped out Canadians. I think thats a pretty bad record.

All opposition parties have blamed Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for creating the need for the speedy approval of the bill by proroguing Parliament for a month, during which time it could not deal with anything.

Bill C-4 replaces the Canada Emergency Response Benefit, which came to an end last weekend after helping almost nine million Canadians weather the pandemic. The CERB is being replaced with a more flexible and generous employment insurance regime and, for those who still dont qualify for EI, a new Canada Recovery Benefit.

The bill also creates a new sick-leave benefit and another new caregiver benefit for those forced to take time off work to care for a dependent due to the pandemic.

At the behest of the NDP, the government has increased the proposed new benefits to $500 per week from the originally proposed $400, aiming to see that no one receives less than they were getting under the CERB.

It has also expanded the eligibility criteria for the sick-leave benefit so that it applies not just to individuals who contract COVID-19 but also to those with underlying health conditions or other illnesses, including the flu or the common cold, that makes them more susceptible to COVID-19.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 30, 2020.

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The NHAI on Tuesday said it has agreed with most of the suggestions made by industry body Consulting Engineers Association of India (CEAI) to improve national highways. The CEAI had submitted suggestions pertaining to areas that include Omnibus Bank guarantee, performance parameters of consultants, approval of DPR, value engineering, technical capacity provisions, evaluation of bids etc, the NHAI said in a statement.

After having detailed deliberation with the industry body, NHAI agreed with most of the suggestions made by them," it said. Suggestions which were outside the purview of NHAI have been sent to the related authorities for consideration. The NHAI assured the body that all good suggestions facilitating smooth working with the consultants shall be positively considered in the future as well. Some of the key suggestions accepted by the NHAI are regarding Omnibus Bank Guarantee system and guidelines have been issued on the matter, it said.

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RELATED NEWS Now NHAI to Fine Contractors for Badly Constructed Highways and Other Quality Issues

Suggestions regarding use of innovative technology / material have been accepted. The NHAI has asked the Consultants to propose new technologies while preparing DPRs and wasteful expenditure items should be avoided. The authority also assured that the approval process of various stages of DPR shall be expedited. National Highways Authority of India has reiterated its commitment to ensuring timely payments to the Consultants.

Under technical capacity provisions, cap on the number of projects awarded to a consultant will be linked to the consultants performance and its rating on the vendor performance evaluation system," it said. The NHAI is committed to improving ease of doing business and facilitate better working relationship with all its stakeholders.
Hotel occupancy rates in Dublin City for October are currently as low as 10 per cent, while they are highest in the South East at 38 per cent.

It comes as the 'Stay and Spend' scheme kicked off today, which offers up to 125 in income tax credits for those staying in hotels or eating out between now and the end of April next year.

According to the IHF, 100,000 jobs have been lost so far this year, with a further 100,000 jobs at immediate risk.

IHF chief executive Tim Fenn said: The situation has now deteriorated further in recent days, and we have reached a critical point with cancellations wiping out all new business generated over the week.

"Effectively, no net new business has been generated over the last seven days for the country as a whole  the first time this has happened since the sector reopened at the end of June."

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Mr Fenn added: The collapse in new bookings is extremely worrying and adds to an already exceptionally challenging environment. It is a direct consequence of additional Government restrictions and points to a very difficult number of months ahead.

"This must be recognised by the Government in the upcoming Budget. Existing supports for the tourism industry are totally inadequate given the current restrictions.

"Urgent and unprecedented intervention by the Government is essential to support tourism and safeguard the thousands of jobs that are at risk. "
B oris Johnson was embarrassed today as the European Union carried out its threat to take legal action over his threat to break the Withdrawal Agreement.

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen issued a letter of formal notice of proceedings and accused the UK government of acting in bad faith.

Downing Street sources said they were relaxed about the action, saying such cases tended to take three years and end in no more than a fine.

But the new low in relations comes as post-Brexit talks on a trade deal are at a critical stage.

Ursula von der Leyen / AP

The commission will argue that the new Internal Market Bill breaks EU and international law by going against the UK obligations in the legally binding Brexit agreement which include protecting an open border with the Republic of Ireland.

This draft bill is, by its very nature, a breach of the obligation of good faith laid down in the Withdrawal Agreement, Ms von der Leyen said in a short statement. Moreover if adopted as is, it will be in full contradiction to the protocol of Ireland-Northern Ireland.

The EU set a 30-day deadline for the UK to back down when the row blew up. It expired yesterday without the demand for the removal of the key section of the Bill being met. The letter is the first stage of a process that could end up in the European Court of Justice.

Ms de Leyen added: The problematic provisions have not been removed. Therefore, this morning, the commission has decided to send a letter of formal notice to the UK government.

This is the first step in an infringement procedure."

She said the UK has one month to respond to the letter.

The commission will continue to work hard towards a full and timely implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement, she said. We stand by our commitments.

Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage tweeted: The oven ready deal was an international treaty  for the EU Commission, that is like the Bible.

Whilst the EU always acts in bad faith, all they are doing today is asking Boris to keep his promises.

It should never have been signed in the first place.

A UK Government spokesman said: We will respond to the letter in due course.

We have clearly set out our reasons for introducing the measures related to the Northern Ireland protocol.

We need to create a legal safety net to protect the integrity of the UKs internal market, ensure ministers can always deliver on their obligations to Northern Ireland and protect the gains from the peace process.
Booking.com Co-Founder Creates All-Australian PPE Mask

An entrepreneurial duo is in talks with Victoria and New South Wales state governments to establish a production factory for their new military-grade, reusable and environmentally-friendly, Australian designed protective masks.

Adrian Critchlow, co-founder of Booking.com, and Mehdi Qerim, Managing Director of Solid Foundation Investments, are in the final stages of settling on a location for their multi-functional and environmentally friendly protective face covering.

Mechanical engineer and clean-tech investor Critchlow told Epoch Times that both are keen to commence production as soon as possible, weve narrowed it down to two sites, one in Ballarat and one in Adelong for our manufacturing base, he said. There is also interest from governments about their requirements in terms of emergency services, and were talking to a number of corporates.

Ambulance services in Victoria and NSW have already agreed to trial their masks.

ActiveMask prototype (Image supplied by ActiveMask)

Made In Australia

Developing an all Australian supply chain was important for the ActiveMasks co-founders who note the need for masks will not dissipate until the pandemic ends.

Australians, particularly Victorians, will be required to wear masks for some time into the future. It will remain a critical piece of equipment for many years on the other side of the current COVID-19 crisis, said Critchlow

ActiveMask will be entirely designed and constructed right here in Victoria. It is important that Australia develops its own supply pipeline for sophisticated, protective masks, Qerim said.

The friends also have plans to take their product global.

We have already had enquiries from the UK, United States and Asia, so we see a sizable export opportunity for a quality manufactured Australian mask, they said

ActiveMask will use an automated manufacturing process and expects to generate hundreds of jobs at the new site.

Critchlow said the balance of automated machinery and labour enables them to compete with low-labour-force countries.

Inspired by Loss

The co-founders set out to create a long-lasting, reuseable mask after Critchlows elderly father lost his life due to COVID-19. At the aged care home, he saw first hand how concerning face-covering standards were for health care workers.

Many single-use and fabric mask designs have significant drawbacks that limit their efficacy putting the wearer at potential risk, and they are made of melt-blown plastic, which ends up in landfill or our waterways, he noted.

Were already seeing hundreds of them being audited and removed from Australias register of therapeutic goods given they dont adequately prevent infection, Critchlow said.

The experience inspired him and friend Qerim to develop a mask suitable for a variety of infectious diseases and other lifethreatening situations, including bushfires.

ActiveMask diagram v1.1a, 2020. (Image supplied by Activemask)

Their product named ActiveMask, partly developed with the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation is made up of two layers: an activated carbon layeroriginally designed for the British army for nuclear biological and chemical warfarecombined with a P2/N95 filter, made of wool currently processed in New Zealand, which was created for NASA personnel. In addition, its medical-grade silicone straps are designed for all-day comfort Critchlow explained.

The masks are also environmentally conscious with the company not using plastic materials in the construction of the ActiveMask, instead relying on silicone.

Read More FDA Bans 65 Chinese Mask Makers for Failing to Meet Filtration Standards

Read More Chinese Mask Maker Charged With Selling Defective N95 Respirators

Currently in Australia Victorians have been required to wear a mask when in public since July while in New South Wales and Queensland mask-wearing has been encouraged to slow down the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

When asked about this, Critchlow said, Were pleased that the government has recognised the fact that having masks is a good step  masks that fit well is a crucial step.

Retail value of ActiveMask is estimated by the founders to be under $100.
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Thu, October 1, 2020 07:26 479 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c485515c 1 City vandalism,place-of-worship,Tangerang,Banten,mushala,vandalisme,police Free

An 18-year-old from Tangerang, Banten, has been named a suspect by the Tangerang Police for allegedly vandalizing a mushola (Muslim prayer room).

The suspect, identified only as S, has confessed to the police, who have seized several pieces of evidence from his residence.

We will charge the suspect under Article 156 of the Criminal Code for committing an act that could spark tension between religions, as well as inciting hate toward certain religious groups, Tangerang Police chief Sr. Comr. Ade Ary Syam Indardi said on Wednesday as quoted by kompas.com.

Ade went on to say that the police were currently investigating the suspect. The investigators will invite several experts ranging from linguists and psychologists to religion experts to support the investigation.

Read also: Vandalized building in North Sulawesi not mosque, authorities say

According to Ade, S confessed willingly because he thought his actions were justified.

We are still trying to find out [his motive]. We are still investigating websites and content that he accessed through his mobile phone, Ade said.

Previously, residents of Villa Tangerang Elok housing complex in Pasar Kemis district, Tangerang, exposed the vandalism at the Darussalam Mushola on Tuesday evening on social media, which later went viral.

The culprit has painted over the musholas floor and wall with spray paint, as well as tearing a Quran apart. (dpk)
MOSCOW -- When a Russian court sentenced gulag historian Yury Dmitriyev to 3 1/2 years in prison on child sexual-abuse charges in July, many supporters who have waged a campaign for his exoneration considered it something of a victory.

Dmitriyev had spent much of the past four years behind bars, languishing in pretrial detention following his arrest in December 2016 on suspicion of producing child pornography and committing lewd acts with his adopted daughter, charges he has vehemently denied from the outset.

Few expected him to be spared a lengthy prison term, amid a dogged state TV propaganda campaign and a record of politicized trials since President Vladimir Putin came to power in 2000. And in a justice system in which acquittals are extremely rare, the sentence handed down this summer was seen as proof that he was innocent as claimed.

"The prosecution had no evidence that Dmitriyev was guilty of any abusive sexual acts toward his adoptive daughter," Irina Flige, a fellow researcher on the Soviet prison-camp system and a friend of Dmitriyev's, told RFE/RL after the ruling.

But both sides appealed -- the prosecution seeking a harsher punishment and the defense seeking an acquittal -- and the Supreme Court of the Karelia region slapped another 9 1/2 years onto Dmitriyev's sentence in a ruling on September 29 -- weeks before the 64-year-old researcher was due to be released because of time served.

Rachel Denber, deputy director of the Europe and Central Asia Division at Human Rights Watch, called the new ruling "atrocious." "The circumstances surrounding the case strongly indicate that the charges against Dmitriyev were spurious and politically motivated," she wrote.

For some of Dmitriyev's supporters, the harsh new sentence came as a bad blow but as no surprise, merely restoring the punitive status quo they have grown used to.

"I expected it," Anatoly Razumov, a close friend of Dmitriyev's and a fellow historian who has collaborated with him on studies of Stalin-era repression, told RFE/RL.

Razumov and other supporters of Dmitriyev have for years argued that a harsh sentence was predetermined and perhaps even ordered from officials in Moscow. "These people have huge financial resources, and huge propaganda resources. And they wont back down," he said.

Three days before Dmitriyev's latest hearing in Petrozavodsk, Karelia's capital, state news channel Rossia-24 aired censored, nude photographs of the adopted daughter whom prosecutors allege he abused. Dmitriyev argues that he was using the photographs to document the child's development for social workers, whom he had fought in court to win adoptive rights.

The report on the nationwide state channel -- which elicited immediate condemnation from Dmitriyev's supporters -- slammed what it called the defense team's "absurd justifications" and portrayed the amateur historian as a depraved agent of Western powers.

The report was later scrubbed from Rossia-24's website, only to be reposted after journalists flagged its disappearance. But the narrative it pushed is one that Russian officials have advanced from the outset of Dmitriyev's protracted prosecution, which continued despite his acquittal in April 2018 -- overturned two months later by the same court that extended his sentence on September 29.

"This decision defies reason," Dmitriyev's longtime lawyer, Viktor Anufriyev, who could not attend the appeal hearing because he was under isolation with COVID symptoms, said of the latest ruling in an interview with the news outlet MBKh Media. "I doubt anything like it has happened in Russia's legal history."

In jail, Dmitriyev has received regular letters from supporters and relatives, many of whom have shared his upbeat and sometimes ironic responses on Facebook and other social-media platforms. He appears to be unbroken: less than an hour after his prison term was extended, he put pen to paper to make clear his resolve to prove his innocence.

"Oh well. We'll keep fighting," he wrote in a letter that was published by MBKh Media, in which he says he had just left the court. "God tests those he loves."

Dmitriyev's defense team says it will launch its own appeal, which will likely be examined at a higher court in St. Petersburg.

"I'm convinced that this ordeal will end with his release within the year," Razumov said. "And we will ultimately obtain the acquittal he deserves."
Uttarakhand forest department authorities have initiated the process to put radio collars on five tigers, 10 elephants and 15 leopards in the hill state in a bid to study the animals movements and behaviorial pattern and also prevent the growing man-animal conflict.

JS Suhag, chief wildlife warden, Uttarakhand, said that the radio collar project is in progress as part of the three separate initiatives to reduce man-animal conflict and study these animals movement patterns.

Also read: Uttarakhand gets its first pine needle power generation plant

We have received permission from the Central government to put radio collars on 10 elephants in and around the Haridwar forest division ahead of next years Mahakumbh. Usually, the elephants stray into human habitations. These elephants have been identified by a team of experts and the radio-collar project will start soon, said Suhag.

The jumbo population has increased in the hill state, leading to an uptick in man-elephant conflict.

In June, according to the elephant census that was conducted earlier this year, the pachyderm population in the state has reached 2,026.

In 2012, there were 1,559 elephants in Uttarakhand, and their population rose to 1,839 by 2017.

Suhag said radio-collars would be put on 15 leopards in different parts of the state, but predominantly in the Rajaji Tiger Reserve (RTR) landscape.

The radio-collar project for leopards is a part of the initiative with the Dehradun-based Wildlife Institute of India (WII), he added.

WII scientists want to study the nature of a leopard. For example, the areas it moves around, how much time it spends in what type of an area, around what time it moves and a natural habitat that it prefers. The leopards will be put radio-collars predominantly around the RTR landscape, he said.

Neeraj Sharma, divisional forest officer (DFO), Haridwar division, said, We are keeping a target of five leopards each from Haridwar and Dehradun forest divisions and another five from the RTR for the radio-collar project in a bid to study their behaviour. We will be able to form better strategies on how to reduce the man-leopard conflict after we learn more about their movement patterns.

He said a leopard, which had strayed into human settlements, was captured last week and was later radio-collared at the Chidiyapur rescue centre. The leopard was monitored for upto 12 hours following which it was released in the wild.

Five tigers are due for translocation for the first time in Uttarakhand from Corbett Tiger Reserve (CTR) to RTR in November in a bid to increase the animals population in the western part of the Rajaji landscape.

These five tigers will also be radio-collared and monitored for the next two years.

DK Singh, director, RTR, said, All preparations have been done for the translocation of the tigers. Camera traps have been set up in the CTR landscape to identify these tigers following which the translocation process will start by the first week of November. Radio-collars will be put on these tigers to study their movement patters.

The tigers would be monitored for the next two years to get a sense of how they would move out of their natural habitat, their interactions with tigresses in the Rajaji landscape, etc, he added.

The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) had given the permission to put radio collars on these tigers as part of the relocation project itself.

In July, CTR had reported the highest tiger density among Indias 50 reserves.

CTR has a density of 14 tigers per 100 square (sq) kilometres (km).

It also recorded the highest tiger population at 231 and 266, if the reserve is taken into account, according to a publication called Status of Tigers, Co-predators and Prey in India, which was released by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and WII.

Similarly, the tiger population in the RTR is 38, while including the reserve is 52.

Last September, the RTR landscape was chosen for a pilot project on man-wildlife conflict mitigation by the MoEFCC.

The forest officials had started their preparations for next years Mahakumbh since last November, when man-animal hotspots were identified and geo-tagged.

Response teams at multiple levels were formed and a geo-tagged map was prepared by the Haridwar forest division by collating information on all the conflict incidents over the past two years.

The geo-tagging holds the key in providing the precise information to the forest officials on how frequently did a conflict occur in a certain area and the pattern helps to devise an effective strategy to contain similar incidents in the near future.

RTR, a hotspot for human-leopard conflict in Uttarakhand, had cited in a report in 2019 that 23 people were killed in the reserve over the past five years.
France's mobile operators paid the state nearly 2.8 billion euros for the first block of 5G radio frequencies auctioned off this week, with former state monopoly Orange winning the biggest share, the Arcep telecoms regulator said Thursday.

The agency put 11 unused frequency "blocks" on sale, with the aim of making the ultrafast technology available in some French cities by the end of this year.

Arcep said the country's four operators -- Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom and Free -- paid a total of 2.786 billion euros ($3.3 billion) for the radio frequencies that will now be reserved for 5G services.

The fifth-generation successor to 4G technology promises radically quicker transfers of data, heralding major changes to an array of products and services from self-driving cars to remote surgery.

Operators had already paid 350 million euros each for 50 megahertz of spectrum on the available frequency bands, and could bid for bigger slices that would improve network performance and coverage.

Orange won an additional 90 MHz and SFR obtained 80 MHz, while Bouygues and Free got 70 MHz each.

Another auction will be held this month for "positioning," since slots closer to the centre of the frequency band are less susceptible to interference from other devices.

"This was a successful auction, and we have to commend the very strong commitment by the operators to invest significantly in France," the Arcep president Sebastien Soriano said at a press conference.

The conference was held at the French headquarters of Ericsson, the Swedish mobile network equipment maker.

Ericsson and Finland's Nokia stand to benefit from heavy spending on the 5G network rollouts, after France placed heavy restrictions on the use of gear from the Chinese giant Huawei.

Several governments, in particular the US, suspect the company could help China eavesdrop on western networks.
The Mayor of Bucharest's District 1, Dan Tudorache, stated, on Thursday, for AGERPRES, that the lawyer of the Social Democratic Party's District 1 branch will file a criminal complaint to the General Prosecutor in the case of the images with ballot bags at the headquarters of the District 1 Electoral Bureau (BES), shown on Wednesday night in the public space.

According to Dan Tudorache, the lawyer justified the complaint by the fact that some persons have entered the hall with ballot bags only with the agreement of the BES chair, without there being a decision of the District 1 Electoral Bureau in this sense.

According to a release of BES District 1, in the images filmed on the night between Monday and Tuesday there is the chairman of the Electoral Bureau of the Electoral Circumscription of District 1, who, together with the chairman of the polling station, entered the room to retrieve the bag containing voters' signatures.

"They were accompanied by representatives of USR PLUS [Save Romania Union - Party of Liberty, Unity and Solidarity], who, in accordance with the dispositions of art. 98, paragraph 4, of Law no. 115/2015, requested to participate in the procedure, request admitted by the chairman exactly in order to ensure the transparency of the electoral process," the BES mentioned.

The person that appears in the images searching through bags is part of the auxiliary technical personnel of BES 1 and works within the District 1 Hall, being designated in this quality in agreement with dispositions of Law no. 115 of 2015, BES states.

"The person that appears in another shot of the film, in a corner of the room and places down a bag, is a member of the Electoral Bureau of the Electoral Circumscription of District 1, and that bag contains the reports from a polling station," BES 1 added.
Ministers are bracing for unemployment to hit four million over the winter months as pub bosses warned a quarter of staff are facing redundancy when furlough ends.

The Office for Budget Responsibility spending watchdog has forecast that unemployment could peak at 12 per cent by the end of the year, the equivalent of four million workers.

Work and Pensions Secretary Therese Coffey has revealed her department is preparing on the basis of that prediction and is bolstering the Universal Credit benefits system ahead of an expected surge in claims.

However, she insisted ministers 'genuinely hope we don't reach, obviously, that figure'.

Work and Pensions Secretary Therese Coffey has confirmed her department is preparing for the coming months on the basis that unemployment could hit four million

Pub bosses today warned that they are facing big redundancies when the furlough scheme ends this month. Drinkers are pictured in central London on September 25

Chancellor Rishi Sunak is ending the furlough scheme at the end of this month and replacing it with a less generous wage subsidy programme to help people who can work part-time in 'viable' jobs.

Experts have warned the move to the Jobs Support Scheme will inevitably lead to widespread job losses as the Government removes help for so-called 'zombie' roles with no future.

The OBR has forecast in its 'central' coronavirus economic scenario that unemployment will peak at four million at the end of 2020.

In its 'downside' forecast with 13 per cent unemployment the number is even higher at 4.5 million.

Ms Coffey confirmed in an interview with Sky News that the Department for Work and Pensions is preparing on the basis of the 'central' forecast.

She said: 'I think we're in a number similar in terms of being ready to help people and trying to help them get back to work as quickly as possible.

'We're bringing people into the organisation and in a COVID safe way in order to respond to the challenge.

'I genuinely hope we don't reach, obviously, that figure. But it's important we are ready to help people."

Ms Coffey said her department is 'evolving' its plans to help more people but she stressed that the Government 'never promised we could save every single job or every single company'.

'We will do our best to try and help businesses keep going,' she said.

'But we have reached a point where we absolutely recognise we cannot pretend, we've never pretended, we can save every job.'

The most recent Office for National Statistics data showed the UK unemployment rate in May/July was 4.1 per cent. Experts fear that could spike significantly in the coming months.

The end of furlough and the Government's 10pm curfew on pubs, restaurants and bars is expected to hit the hospitality sector particularly hard, especially as the nation moves towards winter.

The UK unemployment rate in May/July this year was 4.1 per cent, according to the Office for National Statistics, but experts are bracing for a surge in the winter months

Clive Watson, the executive chairman of the City Pub Group which has 48 pubs across South East England, said his company is facing 'tough decisions'.

Asked what the firm will do when the furlough scheme ends, he told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'We have got about 12 per cent of our workforce on full furlough and 40 per cent of our workforce on what we call flexi-furlough.

'So we are going to have to make some tough decisions. Trade is shrinking because of the curfew and because of social distancing.

'Unfortunately we are going to have to look at making up to 25 per cent of our workforce redundant. That will be about 250 people.'
By Express News Service

KOZHIKODE: Political parties and religious organisations expressed shock at the acquittal of all the 32 accused in the Babri Masjid demolition case. In a joint statement issued on Wednesday, Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulema president E Sulaiman Musliar and General Secretary Kanthapuram A P Aboobacker Musliar called the acquittal extremely disappointing. This verdict quashes the judgment of the Supreme Court in the land dispute case.

The demolition of the Babri Masjid was an event that deeply hurt Indias secularism. It was carried out after years of planning. Some of the accused had traveled all over the country and deployed communal propaganda and most openly led the anti-Babri campaign, they said. Kerala Nadvathul Mujahideen (KNM) State President T P Abdulla Koya Madani said: It was surprising that the prosecution failed to bring to justice those responsible for the demolition of the Babri Masjid. The verdict, which came 28 years after the incident, is the result of someone trying to subvert the law.

The legal battle against the verdict must continue. We must be able to move forward with foresight and be tolerant towards the judgment just as we did in the case of Supreme Court judgment in a land dispute case. The Loktantrik Yuva Janata Dal (LJD) demanded the dismissal of CBI. With the Babri Masjid verdict, the allegation that the CBI is a puppet in the hands of the ruling party has been further strengthened. A just society cannot accept this verdict that says the Sangh Parivar leaders, , didnt know about the incident. Its better to dismiss CBI than continue in the current state, said Saleem Madavoor, national president of the Loktantrik Yuva Janata Dal.
Someone repainted a thin blue line down Main Street in Flemington early Tuesday morning several months after it was ordered removed by the mayor.

Between 3:46 a.m. and 4:01 a.m., a blue line was painted on Main Street from Chorister Place to Capner Street, Flemington Chief of Police Jerry Rotella confirmed on Wednesday. The line was painted over by the Department of Public Works later Wednesday at approximately 9 or 10 a.m., he added.

This is the second time this has happened in the borough in recent months, as a 15- to 20-foot long blue line was painted in front of the police station shortly after Flemington Mayor Betsy Driver directed the Department of Public Works to cover the existing blue line on Main Street in June.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 1)  Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade wants consortium AF Payments, Inc., which operates the fare collection system in Metro Manila rail systems and EDSA Busway, to give stored value cards or beep cards to commuters for free.

This is after the Department of Transportation required cashless transaction for public utility buses, plying the EDSA Busway route starting on Thursday.

Tugade on Thursday said the beep cards should be given for free after load payment, even with the minimum amount. He also asked the AF Payments not to pass on the cost of the value cards to the commuters.

Dapat libre lang ang card (the card should be free). We are still under quarantine measures," he said. "Workers who have just returned to work are the main users of the rail system and the EDSA Busway.

Malaking bagay para sa mga ordinaryong manggagawa ang 30 to 50 na ikakaltas para bayaran ang card ng beep. Pasahe din yun," he added. "They should be spared from the burden of having to pay the price of the beep card on top of their fares.

[Translation: Taking away 30 to 50 to pay the beep card is a big thing for ordinary workers. That can still be used as fare. They should be spared from the burden of having to pay the price of the beep card on top of their fares]

A beep card can also be used to pay fares in LRT-1, LRT-2, and MRT-3 train lines, and some point-to-point buses, as well as modern public utility vehicles and is valid for four years.
BAKU/YEREVAN -- Heavy shelling between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces persisted for a fifth day as the two sides continued to ignore repeated calls from international leaders to halt fighting over the breakaway Nagorno-Karabakh region.



As the death toll rose in the heaviest clashes since the 1990s around the region -- part of Azerbaijan but run by its mostly ethnic Armenian inhabitants -- France, Russia, and the United States called on October 1 for "an immediate cessation of hostilities between the relevant military forces."



In their joint statement, Presidents Emmanuel Macron, Vladimir Putin, and Donald Trump acted in their capacity as co-chairs of the so-called Minsk Group of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), which mediates in the conflict.

The trio also called on the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan to "commit without delay to resuming substantive negotiations, in good faith and without preconditions, under the auspices of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs."

But addressing parliament, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Ankara would continue to provide all types of support to Azerbaijan as he criticized the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs for failing to resolve the long-running dispute over Nagorno-Karabakh.



Given that the United States, France, and Russia as OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs have neglected the problem for nearly 30 years, it is not acceptable for them to call for a cease-fire in the face of negative developments today, Erdogan said.



He demanded Armenian occupiers first leave the breakaway territory.



As international powers struggled with diplomacy, Azerbaijan's Defense Ministry said October 1 that its forces had carried out "crushing artillery strikes against Armenian forces' positions in the occupied territories" overnight.



Ethnic Armenian separatists in Nagorno-Karabakh said both sides exchanged artillery fire, describing the situation along the front line as "tense.



More than 100 people, including many civilians, have been killed since fighting erupted on September 27 -- the worst flare-up in years over region, whose status has been disputed for decades.

Heavy clashes -- including the use of armed drones, tanks, helicopters, and multiple-rocket systems -- have been reported along much of the Line of Contact that separates the ethnic Armenian forces who control Nagorno-Karabakh from Azerbaijan's troops.

The upsurge of violence has threatened to draw in Russia, a member of a security alliance with Armenia, and NATO member Turkey.



Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has called his Armenian and Azerbaijani counterparts to inform them that his country was willing to host negotiations.

Putin and Macron also held a phone call to discuss the situation, with both leaders calling on the sides to "implement an immediate and full cease-fire, de-escalate tensions and show maximum restraint," according to the Kremlin.



Referring to Yerevan's accusation that Turkey is dispatching fighters from northern Syria to bolster Azerbaijani forces, Macron's office said he and Putin "also shared their concern regarding the sending of Syrian mercenaries by Turkey to Nagorno-Karabakh." It did not provide further information.

But later on October 1, Macron said France has "information today that indicates with certainty that Syrian fighters from jihadist groups have transited through Gaziantep [in southern Turkey] to reach the theater of operations in Nagorno-Karabakh."

Macron, who was speaking as he arrived for a summit with EU leaders in Brussels, added, "This is a very serious new fact, which changes the situation."

Separately, Russia's Foreign Ministry on October 1 was quoted by RIA Novosti as saying that Moscow has knowledge about Syrian mercenaries in the Nagorno-Karabakh region independently of media reports, after two Syrian rebel sources told Reuters that Turkey is sending Syrian rebel fighters to support Azerbaijan.

Earlier in the day, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that any participation of third countries in this standoff may have extremely negative consequences."

Turkey and Azerbaijan have denied the reports.

Answering a question regarding the allegations, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that "any participation of third countries in this standoff may have extremely negative consequences."



The potential for robust Turkish involvement in the conflict is being watched closely by Russia, which is already on opposing sides with the NATO member in conflicts in Libya and Syria.



Russia is among the largest suppliers of weaponry to both Azerbaijan and Armenia. It also has a military base in Armenia.

Infographic: Where Armenia, Azerbaijan Get Their Weapons

Turkeys involvement is also raising attention in Europe, with Macron accusing Ankara of "reckless and dangerous" statements backing Azerbaijan.



The fighting, as well as Turkeys involvement, is likely to come up during a summit of EU leaders starting on the evening of October 1.



Reports said two French nationals working for the Le Monde newspaper were wounded on October 1 during shelling of the town of Martuni in Nagorno-Karabakh and taken to a hospital.



Reuters quoted Le Monde Chief Editor Luc Bronner as confirming that two of its journalists, including one photographer, had been injured.

Macron said the French Foreign Ministry was working to organize the journalists repatriation as quickly as possible.

Armenias Foreign Ministry said that the two reporters were badly wounded in shelling by Azerbaijan forces in the town of Martuni. The ministry said that two Armenian journalists were also hit in the shelling.

The Azerbaijani side neither confirmed nor rejected the report.

Azerbaijan and Armenia have been locked in a conflict over the mountainous region since the waning years of the Soviet Union. They fought a war that ended in 1994 with an uneasy cease-fire and an estimated 30,000 killed.



Since then, Nagorno-Karabakh has been under the control of ethnic Armenian forces.

With reporting by AFP, AP, Reuters, TASS, and Interfax
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At the end of the Civil War in 1865, Mississippi was a majority-Black state.

Republicans, who were the liberals at the time, championed granting Black people the right to vote. The military commander of Mississippi in 1867 started to allow Black people to register to vote for delegates at the Reconstruction constitutional convention. That year, there were 60,167 Black people registered and only 46,436 white people.

Black people had enough electoral power to control the state.

The new Mississippi Legislature in 1870 was about a quarter Black. As Mississippi sought readmission to the Union and representation in Congress in January of that year, the state had to fill its two vacant Senate seats (one of which had been vacated by Jefferson Davis, who would become president of the Confederacy).

The Black delegation insisted that one of the seats should go to a Black party member. You can insist when you have that much political power. The legislators agreed that they could have the seat with the shortest term remaining, and elected Hiram Revels, a well-educated Black pastor who was born free in North Carolina in 1827 and who formed regiments of Black men in Maryland during the war. (Senators were not popularly elected at the time.)

In February 1870, Mississippi was readmitted into the Union. On Feb. 3, the 15th Amendment was ratified, and just 22 days later Revels took his oath of office in the Senate. Civil rights activist Wendell Phillips called Revels the 15th Amendment in flesh and blood.
To raise awareness of the value of skilled trades and to build excitement around vocational career opportunities, the campaign will feature several new initiatives, including a "31 Faces of Makers" social campaign, a DEWALT and STANLEY Security scholarship program, and a new Stanley Black & Decker Vocational Leadership Program.

"To help close the vast skills gap today, an issue exacerbated by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, businesses need to showcase and celebrate the wide variety of opportunities that can be pursued across the skilled trades," said Stanley Black & Decker President and CEO Jim Loree. "Maker Month is our contribution to this effort, helping to highlight the immense potential these careers offer while also working to achieve our corporate social responsibility goal of empowering 10 million makers by 2030."

31 Faces of Makers: We are #MakerProud

Throughout October, Stanley Black & Decker will start a conversation across social channels spotlighting a diverse range of makers and creators. From tradespeople and engineers to philanthropists and innovators, the 31 Faces of Makers campaign will showcase one individual for each day of the month, bringing their unique stories to life across Instagram and Twitter.

"Today more than ever, it is important to highlight the wide range of exciting careers individuals can pursue as part of our industrywide effort to break stigmas against trade careers," said Stanley Black & Decker Chief Technology Officer, Mark Maybury. "By showcasing the wealth and variety of trade careers available that incorporate innovative technologies, we strive to inspire a diverse set of future tradespeople."

Stanley Black & Decker will feature all 31 makers on its website, along with resources and information for those interested in learning more about skilled career paths. The company also invites makers to share their "Maker Moment" or celebrate the work of a maker they know using the hashtag #MakerMonthGiveaway. Each week throughout the month of October, one person who posts on their Instagram or Twitter using #MakerMonthGiveaway will be randomly selected to win a tool package from one of our tool brands.

Vocational Leadership Program (VLP)

As part of the company's commitment to upskilling, Stanley Black & Decker is also introducing its new Vocational Leadership Program to serve as a pathway for future leaders in manufacturing regardless of an individual's higher education background.

This unique, cohort-based program offers individuals the opportunity to learn the ins-and-outs of manufacturing by working hands-on in one of its facilities while also participating in formal leadership skills training. Participants will spend 12 months training and working in roles centered around Industry 4.0 and lean manufacturing. They will learn and apply core leadership principles and gain exposure to mentors and senior leaders.

The program's first cohort primarily consists of existing Stanley Black & Decker employees, with plans to expand the program to ambitious graduating students and working professionals. To be eligible, prospective participants must have their high school or trade school diploma or general education degree (GED).

To learn more about the program and how to apply, click here.

DEWALT and STANLEY Security Scholarship Program

As part of the Maker Month initiative, the company has established two scholarship programs to support future trades professionals. The DEWALT Trades Scholarship will assist 20 individuals in the US attending a two-year college or vocational-technical school and are pursuing a trade degree/certificate in an industry aligned with DEWALT's core focus areas  including but not limited to Construction, Industrial, Motor/Power Sector, Mechanics, and Technology. The STANLEY Security Scholarship will launch in 2021 to support students in North America, the UK and Europe as they attend school to be a security technician.

Media Contacts:

Debora Raymond

Vice President, Public Relations

[email protected]

203-640-8054

Abigail Dreher

Director, Public Affairs

[email protected]

860-515-2759

About Stanley Black & Decker:

Stanley Black & Decker is a purpose-driven, $14 billion revenue industrial organization. Stanley Black & Decker has 61,000 employees in more than 60 countries and operates the world's largest tools and storage business, the world's second-largest commercial electronic security services company, a leading engineered fastening business as well as Oil & Gas and Infrastructure businesses. The company's iconic brands include Black & Decker, Bostitch, CRAFTSMAN, DEWALT, FACOM, Irwin, Lenox, Porter Cable and Stanley. Stanley Black & Decker is a company for the makers and innovators, the craftsmen and the caregivers, and those doing the hard work to make the world a better place. Learn more at www.stanleyblackanddecker.com.

SOURCE Stanley Black & Decker

Related Links

https://www.stanleyblackanddecker.com


Lusaka, Zambia (PANA) - A consortium of 10 civil society organisations and students unions presented a petition to Zambian President Edgar Lungu at State House on Thursday with 40,000 signatures seeking creation of a commission of inquiry into the privatisation of state-owned enterprises
Pune city has a pendency of 96.4%, and a conviction rate of 12.9%, in cases related to crime against women for the year 2019, according to data released by the National Crime Records Bureau of India (NCRB).

The publication, titled Crime in India, 2019, compares data from all states and union territories along with data from 19 metropolitan cities.

The definition of metropolitan, as per NCRB, is a city that has a population in excess of 10 lakh. However, only metropolitan cities which have a population of at least 20 lakh have been considered in the study.

In 2019, the courts in Pune sent 1,172 cases to trial. A total of 12,420 cases are pending trial from the previous years.

Of all the cases which went to trial in 2019, 58 were convicted, 384 were acquitted and eight cases were discharged.

These are only among cases which reached the legal end of investigation.

There are 2,432 cases, including 1,390 cases from 2019, and 1,042 cases from previous years, which are awaiting investigation by the police.

While cases keep mounting in the annals of the judiciary in the city, the addition to the burden has lessened under this category in the past three years, according to the data.

The annual number of cases registered in Pune has, however, come down compared to 2017. From 2,032 in 2017, and 1,481 in 2018, the city police registered 1,390 cases in 2019.

On a national level, NCRB report points to an increase in crimes against women in the 19 cities it surveyed in the year 2019, as compared to 2018.

A total of 45,485 cases of crime against women were registered during 2019, showing an increase of 7.8% over 2018 (42,180 cases), reads a part of the summary of the report.

Discussing reasons for cases getting stuck in court, a senior police inspector of the Pimpri-Chinchwad police, requesting anonymity, narrated an incident of a minors rape at a labour camp.

The girl woke up in the middle of the night and was walking towards the bathroom when this man pulled her into his room and raped her. During the assault she raised an alarm and the neighbours and her parents came and rescued her, but he had already done the deed by then. The parents settled the matter when the boy agreed to give money and marry her. When that promise fell flat three days later, they came to the police. When the case was registered, he agreed to marry her. Now the complainant and her parents do not wish to pursue the case. How do we make such a case stand in court? This is not the only incident of its kind.

Firstly, awareness of people about registration of these cases - there is a stark increase as these complaints are taken up on a fast track basis. Judicial persons have not increased proportionately. Secondly, this has simply added to the pendency that was already high. The usual issues of availability of witnesses and complainants for procedures like identification parade are also majorly at play. For example, the labourer women who come here for work, they register cases and then are forced to change location as per their work. It is difficult to trace them. After all, no court wants to keep pendency on purpose but n number of reasons are at play, said Advocate Leena Pathak who practices in Pune district court and is a public prosecutor.
The boss of Flight Centre has issued a desperate plea for Australia's borders to be reopened 'as soon as possible' after more store closures were announced.

The company will close another 91 stores across the country with hundreds of staff expected to lose their jobs as the coronavirus pandemic continues to take a crippling toll on the travel industry.

Chief executive Graham Turner has called for Australia's international borders to be reopened in wake of the company's latest 'right-sizing' closures.

Flight Centre has announced it will close another 91 stores across Australia in a move Graham Turner described as 'right-sizing'. Pictured is a store in Melbourne

Australia's borders remain shut to international arrivals and departures to control the spread of COVID-19 until at least December 17.

'We have to live with this virus,' Mr Turner told ABC News Breakfast on Thursday morning.

'A vaccine is still some months away  and even if it's here, the virus will still be around for at least two or three years.

'No-one wants to be overwhelmed by too many infections, but if you accept that we can't eliminate it, which most people do, it is about living with it.'

He had this plea for the to federal and state, along with health authorities.

'We need the Australian borders open, we need the New Zealand Trans-Tasman [bubble] up and running as soon as possible,' Mr Turner said.

'I'm part of an industry group that's helping formulate some strategy to deal with this, with the governments, and hopefully that's going to happen fairly quickly.'

Graham Turner wants to see a Trans-Tasman travel bubble open up between Australia and New Zealand. Pictured are tourists taking a selfie at New Zealand's Milford Sound

The latest store closures and job cuts are in addition to 4,000 Flight Centre already let go in the past six months due to the pandemic.

Around 332 Flight Centre stores remain, less than half of the 740 prior to COVID-19 hitting Australia's shores in January.

Mr Turner said some staff affected by the latest closures would move to call centre and online roles.

'Bear in mind, we're in 23 countries as an organisation. So, it varies a lot with each country. This is really about Australia. We have had a huge network here,' he told the ABC.

'A lot of these shops will be more heavily staffed than they were in the past so we'll be building them back up with staff coming back on board as the business returns,"

The coronavirus pandemic continues to take a crippling toll on the travel industry. Pictured are travellers arriving at Sydney International Airport on September 18

Around 60 of the remaining stores are expected to remain closed for another 6-12 months while international travel bans remain in place.

'Without question, the past six months have been the most challenging period in our almost 40 years in business,' Flight Centre managing director James Kavanagh said in a statement on Wednesday night.

'Never before had we imagined  let alone faced  a scenario whereby all discretionary travel would be halted for a prolonged period.

'We are incredibly sorry that some of our great people are not able to continue on their Flight Centre journey with us at this time but we are taking steps to preserve as many roles as possible for the future, while building a smaller but stronger overall network.'

The company announced a full-year $662 million loss in August.
From the mast of the unfortunate vessel was seen a signal: Water, water. We die of thirst. The answer from the friendly vessel at once came back: Cast down your bucket where you are. A second time, the signal, Water, send us water! went up from the distressed vessel. And was answered: Cast down your bucket where you are. A third and fourth signal for water was answered: Cast down your bucket where you are.

Finally the captain of the distressed vessel, at last heeding the injunction, cast down his bucket and it came up full of fresh, sparkling water from the mouth of the Amazon River. The lost ship had drifted into safety.

Washington shared his parable as a lesson about race relations. His wisdom is also a guide to our experience of life.

In this age of COVID-19, it is easy to think life is on hold. One day, some tell themselves, when a COVID-19 vaccine is proclaimed safe and effective, well get back to living a full life.

Cast down your bucket where you are is an admonition to be more present in this moment, in this life.

A few weeks ago, I was out walking my daily loop with an elevation gain of 450 feet. The day was hot and humid; my head filled with thoughts of how miserable I felt. Approaching the first break in the climb, I uncharacteristically turned around in retreat, my miserable thoughts intact.

Voices rang out as I started down the hill. Barry, shouted four of my neighbors, waving me to turn around and join them.

Present, and engaging them in conversation, my thought-induced misery vanished.

In her book Rapt: Attention and the Focused Life, Winifred Gallagher offers this guidance: Who you are, what you think, feel, and do, what you loveis the sum of what you focus on.

It was good to be reminded: The focus of my attention, not the world, creates my experience of life.

Does my life have any meaning? is a question many ponder. Today, among the young, suicidal thoughts are rampant.

What if we could find meaning in our lives by being present to what the present moment offers?

We live only in the present, but often our attention is on the past or future. If only. I should have. They should have. How dare they. When will they ?

Out of thoughts beginning with What if  we spin elaborate scenarios. Polly Berends observes in her book, Coming to Life, the tendency is to rush ahead after a what if. What if I cant? What if they wont? These what ifs lure and threaten us into the future, making us take thought for ourselves and drowning out the thoughts that God is having for us.

Often, our attention goes to forming opinions about things that are none of our business. Or we notice a slight mistake someone makes, and were annoyed. Such mental habits mask the now. A call to cast down your bucket does not get through to us.

Research shows that the act of remembering is a faulty recreation of the past tainted by our current thinking. Dealing with the future can be equally fruitless. Shifting the spotlight away from speculation and attempts to control the uncontrollable helps us embrace whats in front of us.

Berends explains what might change if we understood that our source is love: The more we know that we are loved [by God], the more lovingly we are seeing. The more lovingly we are seeing, the more loving we are being.

Meaning is central to our sense of well being and worth, but its a fragile thing.

Meaning disappears when wanting takes over, says Berends. We are just reacting to our experience  and thinking of what we want, what we suppose we know is best.

Berends offers us a simple example of presence shared by a young mother, at a time before COVID-19:

We were sitting in Brooklyn on the front stoop, my husband, our 2-year-old daughter, and I. My daughter was in her party dress. Amazingly, even though she had worn it to a party, it was still clean. So we thought, maybe if we put her in a raincoat to eat this ice cream cone, she can keep her dress clean for one more wearing. There she was in her raincoat in the hot sun, and the ice cream was running all over the place. She was a complete mess. And it didnt matter. It was so wonderful. You know, Mark, I said to my husband, I think this is as good as it gets.

As Berends shared the story, she anticipated what you might be thinking: You may say, so what? Big deal! Why shouldnt she enjoy watching her daughter eat ice cream? She had no big problems to worry about.

Notice your own life. Berends says we almost always think we have something more important to worry about, so we are almost never aware of the fact that at least for this one moment, everything is perfect.

Berends gives a long list of distracting thoughts the mother could have been having. Here are a few:

What will the neighbors think of her wearing such a warm coat in August? Watch out! Its dripping!  What am I doing wasting my time here when I have so much more important work to do before I go to the office tomorrow?  She shouldnt have so much sugar  What are we going to have for supper? Which of us is going to fix it? Whos going to go to the store?

The mother kept her focus on the now; her thinking was not removing her from making the most of the present. Berends encourages us to engage in prayer and momentarily set aside all impressions of what seems to be going on and what we think we want and need and what we think we are forin order to allow ourselves to be inspired.

As we set aside needless thinking, what seems meaningless becomes meaningful. No matter how much the world seems to be weighing us down, we can cast down [our] bucket where [we] are and find new possibilities. As we shift the focus of our attention, so changes our experience of life.

Barry Brownstein is professor emeritus of economics and leadership at the University of Baltimore. He is the author of The Inner-Work of Leadership. To receive Barrys essays, subscribe at Mindset Shifts. This article was originally published on Intellectual Takeout.
At first, it seemed like the spotlight would shine most on the low-key Mr. Kelly: This is a special election, and details of Arizonas election law mean that a victorious Mr. Kelly could, theoretically, be seated by Nov. 30, in time to vote on Mr. Trumps pick.

But that scenario now seems to be a long shot as Senate Republicans fall into line behind the president. Now the focus has shifted to Ms. McSally.

Last week, a Washington Post-ABC poll of likely voters in Arizona appeared to show a tightening race at the top of the ticket, with Mr. Trump pulling even with his Democratic opponent, Joseph R. Biden Jr., after a spate of recent surveys showing Mr. Biden slightly ahead. It also showed Mr. Kelly holding just a one-point lead, his worst showing in months.

The poll, conducted from Sept. 15 to Sept. 20, was taken before Cindy McCain, the widow of the still-popular Arizona Senator John McCain, endorsed Mr. Biden, with roughly half the respondents surveyed after Justice Ginsburg died. Ms. McCain, who has told friends she does not believe Ms. McSally did enough to defend her husband from Mr. Trumps attacks, had refused to endorse the Republican senator, saying, I have no interest in it.

Other recent polls paint a slightly different picture, one that Republican operatives think is more reflective of the core dynamics of the race  that Ms. McSally in faring slightly worse among Arizona Republicans than Mr. Trump, a situation that typically spells trouble for down-ballot candidates.

Shes had Republican bleed-off, said Kirk Adams, former chief of staff to Gov. Doug Ducey, a Republican, and former speaker of the Arizona House of Representatives. Somewhere between 10 to 15 percent of people who are choosing the president are not choosing McSally.
Alec Baldwin has branded President Trump and his followers as 'psychotics' and views the leader's refusal to tackle the big issues facing the country as a 'form of insanity' that reminds him of Psycho character Norman Bates.

As the actor prepares to portray Donald Trump when Saturday Night Live returns this weekend, he admitted he's exasperated lampooning the 74-year-old politician based on topics of the week.

Speaking before the disastrous debate with Joe Biden on Tuesday night, where Trump claimed he had support from Portland's Sheriff regarding protests and that he'd been getting along well with the Governor of California amid wildfires, Baldwin accused him of covering up issues rather than dealing with them.

President Donald Trump has been compared to Psycho character Norman Bates

'Nothing would make me happier than to see this end,' Baldwin said about the presidency and portraying Trump on SNL (right)

'Nothing would make me happier than to see this end,' the SNL star told The Hollywood Reporter.

'It's not about climate denial or racial insensitivity, it's a form of insanity.'

Baldwin has been known for his Emmy-winning portrayal of Trump for years. After much character research and study he now draws overt comparisons to Alfred Hitchcock's fictional character with dissociative identity character.

'This vision of what the world is, these white privilege optics of the world, is really like Norman Bates' dead mother in the basement,' Baldwin continued.

'Just keep putting some powder on her, keep putting some makeup on her, keep throwing your voice, ventriloquist-style into her dead corpse.'

Baldwin, 62, thinks there's a deeper issue when Trump uses the adopted slogan 'Make America Great Again.'

'It's not about climate denial or racial insensitivity, it's a form of insanity,' Baldwin said about Trump's views

In April, Baldwin made a surprise appearance as Donald Trump on Saturday Night Live's at home edition to give an update on coronavirus, referring to the pandemic as 'Covfefe-19'

Instead he urges the country's leader to push forward.

'Trump and his minions continue to try to keep alive this faded, bygone view of what this country is and should be,' Baldwin added. 'To me, they're psychotics.'

While SNL has been filmed from home during the pandemic, the cast returns to the studio this week but it's unknown how they'll handle sketches with social distancing measures.

In April, Baldwin made a surprise appearance as Donald Trump on Saturday Night Live's at home edition to give an update on coronavirus, referring to the pandemic as 'Covfefe-19'.

'America is now number one in the world for coronavirus,' Baldwin said in character to Weekend Update hosts Colin Jost and Michael Che.

The faux president noted that 'every night at 7pm all of New York claps and cheers for the great job I'm doing,' a reference to the nightly tribute to medical workers.

In February he attacked the president in a Twitter rant.

Baldwin compared Trump to Adolf Hitler, warning the public to wake up before the president's 'fascist thinking' becomes the new normal.

The actor ripped into the president just a week after Trump was acquitted in his impeachment trial in the Senate.

'Its official. The United States government is as lawless as the malignant dictatorships weve hated in our foreign policy since WWII,' Baldwin tweeted.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. Days after the outbreak of the fighting in the Artsakh region, a high-ranking official in the US Defense Department confirmed the validity of the information that spoke about sending hundreds of Syrian mercenaries from Turkey to support Azerbaijan.

The official, who asked not to be named, revealed to Sky News Arabia - The reports and information that spoke about dozens of trips between Turkey and Azerbaijan in the past days to transport hundreds of Syrian mercenaries are proven and correct."

There are numerous international media reports saying that the number of Syrian mercenaries sent by Turkey to Azerbaijan against Artsakh ranges between 3.000-4.000.

Azerbaijan, actively and overtly supported by Turkey, unleashed an aggression against Artsakh on September 27. The Defense Army of Artsakh repels the attacks of the adversary successfully, inflicting heavy losses, So far Azerbaijan has lost 90 UAVs, 12 helicopters, 181 armored vehicles, 4 aircrafts, 2 Smerch and 1 Uragan multiple rocket launch systems, 3 TOS-1A heavy flamethrower systems and 1200 manpower.

Armenia has reported 103 casualties among the military, there are also 11 civilian victims, including children. International reporters were bombed and injured on October 1.

On September 29 Turkish F-16 downed Armenian SU-25 jet in the Armenian air space, killing the pilot.

Editing and translating by Tigran Sirekanyan
A depraved paedophile who lured two young girls with a backpack filled with toys and lollies has a sickening history of child sex abuse dating back more than two decades.

Anthony Richard Carr, 68, was sentenced to four years in jail on Wednesday after filming and touching the two girls aged four and six in the front yard of a unit complex in Campsie in Sydney's inner south-west on March 10.

Burwood Local Court heard Carr - who had approached the two girls on a bicycle as they played on a mat - filmed one of the girls' genitalia after moving her clothing.

Bystanders performed a heroic citizen's arrest after a father of one of the girls noticed the elderly sex offender touching one of their thighs and taking photos.

Anthony Richard Carr, 68, was sentenced to four years in jail on Wednesday after filming and touching two girls aged four and six-years-old outside an apartment complex in Campsie, south-west Sydney

Introducing himself as 'Tommy', the predator told the girls 'I'll rest here' as he sat beside them, the court was told, NewsLocal reported.

Carr put both of the girls separately on his lap despite them trying to leave, while a video he took showed him looking down the top of one of the children and putting lollies down their clothing.

'Now this (lolly) snake he might like to go there,' he said as he put it down her shirt.

Neighbours and family soon spotted Carr as he pulled out his camera, with the father of one of the girls yelling: 'Why are you taking photos of the kids?'

Footage shared on social media at the time showed the paedophile groaning after being tackled to the ground.

'You f***ing mutt. Face down you piece of s**t,' the man who caught him can be heard saying.

Carr had claimed he was riding his bike and wanted to rest when questioned by police - but officers discovered items including a Canon camera, lollies and a drone in his backpack.

The paedophile, who will be eligible for parole in March 2023, said 'ahhh s****' under his breath as his sentence was read out.

Carr in 1996 was given a seven-year prison sentence after taking a sexually explicit video of a child estimated to be about five-years-old while on holiday in the Phillippines.

The sentence meant he was the first person in Australia to be convicted of 'child sex tourism' - which was a crime named only a year earlier in legislation intended to protect children outside the country from being the victims of sexual abuse by Australians.

The elderly man allegedly had a bag filled with lollies, soft toys and a drone

In 2009 and 2017, Carr appeared in court charged with the indecent assault of a child under the age of 10-years-old and the production of child abuse respectively.

Carr's lawyer argued his client's level of offending earlier this year was on 'the lower end', and the lollies and chocolate in his bag were for his use.

His lawyer Dan Brown also said Carr's elderly age meant he would be vulnerable if sent to prison.

The 68-year-old pleaded guilty to intentionally carrying out a sexual act with a child under 10, common assault and producing child abuse material.

The 68-year-old man was riding a bike when he stopped and spoke to the two children in front of the unit complex

A magistrate said Carr had pre-planned the meeting and was on the prowl for victims that day.

'Im quite satisfied the community needs protection from Mr Carr,' the magistrate said.

Footage of the dramatic citizens arrest in March showed a police officer thanking the Good Samaritan who intervened after catching Carr carrying out the abuse.

The paedophile can be heard groaning in the footage as he lay on the ground before the man who caught him yelled for him to stay down.

'He has everything, from lollies, plush toys and drones. Everything that can possibly appeal to any age child  he has it,' the hero bystander said after restraining the man

The elderly man's bag was filled with lollies, soft toys and a drone.

'He has everything, from lollies, plush toys and drones. Everything that can possibly appeal to any age child  he has it,' the hero bystander said in the footage.

'This is how he lures kids.'

Hero neighbour Milad Youseff, 31, ran outside and dragged the paedophile away from the girls

Milad Youseff, 31, ran outside and dragged the paedophile away from the girls.

Mr Youseff then detained the 68-year-old until police arrived.

'I saw an older guy sitting on a play mat with two kids and he was touching the younger girl,' the shaken neighbour told 7News.

'That's when I knew [something] wasn't right.'
SPRINGFIELD  More than 300 boxes of cooked meat, produce and dairy were delivered to the Springfield Rescue Mission Thursday morning for distribution to those in need as part of the Farmers to Families Food Box Program.

Food insecurity is increasing with COVID-19, said Thomas Slicklen, president and founder of Provision Ministry Inc., which provides food, clothing and home goods to people in need in Massachusetts and across New England. The agency delivered the boxes, which were later distributed to various agencies across Western Massachusetts.

Farmers to Families is a federal initiative that works with farmers, ranchers, specialty crop producers, food processors and distributors, and nonprofit organizations to ensure all Americans have access to fresh and wholesome food during the coronavirus pandemic.

Rachels Table, a program of the Jewish Federation of Western Massachusetts, received the boxes and shared them with partner organizations including Home City Pantry of Housing Management Resources Properties in Springfield and the Project Hope Pantry of the House of Refuge Church in Chicopee.

At this challenging time, it is wonderful to join forces to help those in need, said Jodi Falk, director of Rachels Table. Our work is to alleviate hunger in the Pioneer Valley. During this time of need we are doing everything we can to make sure our neighbors are fed," Falk said.

We wouldnt be able to do what we do without partners like the Springfield Rescue Mission and Rachels Table, said Slicklen. Its my pleasure to help families in need during these extraordinary times.

The program will continue every Thursday through the month of October.

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In an email interview, he added that Dr. Orlov was looking for an idea for unification, an understandable and meaningful program of action. And he found it. He came to the conclusion that it is necessary to unite people not just against totalitarianism, but in constructive activity that would not formally look anti-Soviet and therefore could not be immediately suppressed.
PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and Community Legal Services, Inc. (CLS) today announced a partnership to offer legal support to West and Southwest Philadelphia families facing eviction. CHOP's Healthier Together Initiative, which addresses the social determinants of health, will support CLS to provide legal representation to families as Philadelphia's temporary ban on evictions is set to expire, and the national moratorium on evictions issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention covers only a fraction of Philadelphia renters.

"Eviction is a traumatic event that can have long-term impacts on families, including poverty, homelessness, adverse mental and physical health outcomes, and negative impacts on school achievement," said Peter Grollman, Senior Vice President of External Affairs at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. "The COVID-19 pandemic has caused economic hardship for many families, making it difficult or impossible for them to make timely rent payments. The threat of eviction will become real for many Philadelphia families, and many will need legal help to access the CDC protection against eviction for nonpayment of rent, making this partnership so very important."

In order to raise awareness of these free legal services to the community, representatives from CLS will attend West and Southwest Philadelphia community meetings to educate the community on tenant rights and explain the legal representation CLS is able to provide.

This new work builds upon and complements the Family Justice Partnership (FJP), a medical-legal partnership between CHOP and CLS that has been housed at CHOP's Nicholas and Athena Karabots Pediatric Care Center since 2018. As legal advocates working closely with healthcare teams, CLS attorneys within the FJP team provide no-cost legal representation to CHOP patients and families to address a number of legal issues that impact health, such as lack of heat and food insecurity. This partnership also complements CHOP and Healthier Together's commitment to create healthier homes through the Community Asthma Prevention Program Plus (CAPP+), an initiative that addresses the impact of unhealthy housing on pediatric asthma outcomes through home repairs to remove the source of asthma triggers.

This new partnership between CHOP and CLS, which is dedicated to eviction prevention and housing stability, will reach beyond the four walls of CHOP and into the broader community, making help available to all families in West and Southwest Philadelphia, regardless of whether or not they are CHOP patients.

"Fewer than 10 percent of renters have legal representation in eviction court, but when they do, they experience favorable outcomes 95 percent of the time," said Debby Freedman, Executive Director of CLS. "This initiative will help families in West Philadelphia who otherwise would not know about or have access to these services."

"Philadelphia has the fourth highest eviction rate in the country, and the issue is particularly acute in our West Philadelphia neighborhoods, where evictions disproportionally affect households headed by Black women," said Philadelphia City Councilmember Jamie Gauthier. "Evictions can disrupt the fabric and cohesion of neighborhoods and social connections, destabilizing communities that are already challenged by these difficult times. That's why I'm so grateful that CHOP and CLS are spearheading this initiative, which will go a long way towards providing stability for children and families in my district."

CHOP launched Healthier Together in 2019 to address the social determinants of health, and the initiative partners with community groups to support four pillars of community focus: housing, trauma, hunger, and poverty. To date, Healthier Together has launched several programs in an effort to address these nonmedical factors that impact health, including a home repair program for asthma patients and projects that address trauma in the community.

About Children's Hospital of Philadelphia

Children's Hospital of Philadelphia was founded in 1855 as the nation's first pediatric hospital. Through its long-standing commitment to providing exceptional patient care, training new generations of pediatric healthcare professionals and pioneering major research initiatives, Children's Hospital has fostered many discoveries that have benefited children worldwide. Its pediatric research program is among the largest in the country. In addition, its unique family-centered care and public service programs have brought the 564-bed hospital recognition as a leading advocate for children and adolescents. For more information, visit http://www.chop.edu.

About Community Legal Services (CLS):

Community Legal Services' (CLS) mission is to fight poverty, challenge systems that perpetuate injustice, and change lives through cutting-edge advocacy and exceptional legal representation. CLS is recognized as a national model for legal services programs and is one of the largest and most respected programs in the country. CLS represents more than 11,000 individual clients each year on legal issues that range from predatory lending to nursing home evictions, Social Security denials, health insurance coverage, employment issues and utility shut-offs. CLS staff use what we learn in our high-volume legal practice to identify local and national trends that harm low-income Philadelphians. We then find creative ways to create more just systems via class action litigation, policy advocacy, and communications and community education.. For more information, visit www.clsphila.org.

Contact: Joey McCool Ryan

Children's Hospital of Philadelphia

(267) 426-6070

[email protected]

Contact: Caitlin Brown

Community Legal Services

(610) 742-7503

[email protected]

SOURCE Children's Hospital of Philadelphia

Related Links

http://www.chop.edu


Courtesy ASPCA

Savage and his owner, Iraq war veteran and former paramedic Henry "Andy" Roach, are together again thanks to the ASPCA.

In late August, with Hurricane Laura barreling towards his home in Sulphur, Louisiana, Roach prepared to evacuate. As he was packing up essentials, Roach, 51, realized his truck would only fit himself and the four other adults he vowed to keep safe, including his 88-year-old mother, leaving no room for his rescue German shepherd Savage.

Roach made the difficult decision to get his human family and friends to safety and then return for Savage. Unfortunately, when Roach planned to make his way back home and pick up the dog, he learned from a neighbor that the storm had collapsed part of his backyard fence, allowing Savage to wander off.

The owner was heartbroken to be without his 6-year-old furry friend and unsure of his pet's safety. Thankfully, Roach later learned that shortly after Savage escaped, he was spotted by a Good Samaritan and picked up by Calcasieu Parish Animal Services. The shelter, caught in Hurricane Laura's path, sustained serious damage during the storm, so the ASPCA deployed a disaster response team to the local shelter to help the facility look after the animals under its care.

RELATED: Man Reunites With Lost Cat While Looking for a New Pet in Maine Animal Shelter

Courtesy ASPCA

Savage stayed at an ASPCA emergency shelter until Roach was able to reunite with his loyal companion. At the reunion, Savage ran towards Roach, with his tail-wagging, the second he laid eyes on his owner. Roach was "ecstatic" to see Savage again and was especially pleased to see no serious harm had come to his loving dog.

Courtesy ASPCA

RELATED: Watch Troye Sivan Emotionally Reunite with His Dog Nash After 7 Months Quarantining Apart

"I was ecstatic to see Savage not only alive, but in good spirits and healthy," Roach said in a statement to PEOPLE.

"Its gratifying to see pets go home after such a stressful time. He was definitely glad to see Andy," Jessica Rushin, the ASPCA's senior director of placement partnership, said of the reunion she witnessed.

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Courtesy ASPCA

The ASPCA hopes that Savage's story inspires other pet owners to include their pets in their disaster preparedness plans, so no one will be forced to make the difficult decision Roach had to endure. ASPCA has lifesaving tips on how to easily incorporate your pet into your disaster plan.
California companies are now on notice: hire diverse board members, or else.

That is the message Gov. Gavin Newsom and the Legislature sent Wednesday with the governors signing of AB979 into law.

The legislation mandates that public companies headquartered in California have at least one director from an underrepresented community by the end of 2021. Larger companies with larger boards must add more people from those communities, which the legislation describes as someone who self-identifies as Black, African American, Hispanic, Latino, Asian, Pacific Islander, Native American, Native Hawaiian or Alaska Native, or who self-identifies as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender.

AB979 has been compared to another California law, SB826, which requires women in boardrooms, and critics and boosters have made similar arguments about each.

Im excited to see this happening in California, said Allison Scott, chief executive officer at the Kapor Foundation, an Oakland nonprofit focused on enhancing diversity and inclusion in the technology industry, speaking before the bill was signed.

Critics of the two board laws have argued that legally mandated diversity quotas dont address root problems and are themselves a form of discrimination. One of those opponents, the Pacific Legal Foundation, a nonprofit with offices in Sacramento, helped file a lawsuit challenging SB826 in November.

The government should treat people as individuals, not according to their immutable characteristics, Anastasia Boden, the foundations senior attorney, said in an emailed statement.

Scott disagreed with those objections.

Everybody shudders at the words regulation and accountability, she said, adding that without mandates, there is no incentive to address the lack of diversity in company leadership.

I think weve got to have a carrot and a stick approach, she said.

The legislation appears to be at least partially aimed at the states technology sector. Its authors noted in its text that fewer than 1% of Silicon Valley executives and managers are African American, according to the Equal Opportunity Employment Commission.

In the tech sector nationwide, whites are represented at a higher rate in the executives category, which typically encompasses the highest level jobs in the organization, the bills authors noted, citing the federal employment commission again.

Some research has shown that diversity on boards also leads to increased profit margins, although a group of professors who studied the states law mandating women on boards have cast doubt on that notion.

The legislation cited a report from McKinsey & Company that found for every 10% increase in racial and ethnic diversity at the executive level, earnings jumped almost a percentage point.

That research shows a correlation between diversity and profit but does not establish that one causes the other, Kathy Kahle, a professor at the University of Arizona who co-authored the study on Californias law on women in the boardroom, previously told The Chronicle.

Kahles co-authors, Vincent Intintoli and Daniel Greene, both assistant professors at Clemson University, also noted when the bill was passed by the state Senate in August that groupthink was still possible even with diverse leadership.

Intintoli said at the time that a more important factor was independence from the CEO.

The researchers also found that laws mandating companies add directors, who are generally well compensated for what is typically part-time work, could also disproportionately affect smaller businesses with smaller boards and less cash to burn.

Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes

Beyond financial considerations, AB979s boosters say it would force companies to hire people with different backgrounds and perspectives and open opportunities to previously overlooked candidates.

Scott of the Kapor Foundation said it would cause companies to do the hard work of digging through networks to find qualified candidates, including those outside the company.

A number of large corporations in California already have at least one person of color on their boards. Those companies include Facebook, Tesla, Google parent Alphabet, Salesforce, Wells Fargo and others. Peter Thiel, a gay venture capitalist, sits on the boards of Facebook and Palantir, among others. Tim Cook, CEO of Apple, is a gay man; he also is a member of the companys board.

But diversity in leadership does not necessarily carry over into the rank and file.

Of Facebooks U.S. employees less than 4% are Black, while Hispanic people make up 6.3% of the workforce, according to the companys most recent diversity report. The companys leadership team consists of 3.4% Black people and 4.3% Hispanic individuals in the U.S.

The legislation requires companies to diversify boards by the end of 2021 or face fines from $100,000 to $300,000, and some companies are not waiting until next year to make changes.

Over the summer website Reddit placed Michael Seibel, CEO of Bay Area startup incubator Y Combinator, who is Black, on its board of directors after Reddits co-founder Alexis Ohanian stepped down, to make room for a person of color.

Ohanian is married to the Black athlete Serena Williams, who has a venture capital fund, Serena Ventures, and serves on the boards of Poshmark of San Francisco, an online apparel marketplace, and SurveyMonkey of San Mateo, the online research firm. Poshmark said this week it would pursue an initial public offering, and SurveyMonkey went public in 2018.

Chase DiFeliciantonio is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: chase.difeliciantonio@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @ChaseDiFelice
LONDON  Cazoo, a U.K.-based online marketplace for buying used cars, has seen its valuation double to 2 billion ($2.6 billion) after raising 240 million in a bumper round of funding.

Founded in 2018 by Alex Chesterman, creator of British property site Zoopla, Cazoo aims to fill an Amazon-shaped gap in the automotive industry. Online sales still account for a tiny slice of the overall market globally but are on the rise as e-commerce has gotten a boost from the coronavirus pandemic.

The company only launched its e-commerce platform for used cars in December 2019 but has already seen revenues surge to 100 million, a spokesperson for the firm told CNBC. It's now worth more than twice the $1 billion it was valued at in a June funding round, and has raised a total of 450 million to date.

"Over the past few months we have seen an acceleration in the shift from offline to online car buying as U.K. consumers have continued to embrace our unique and market-leading proposition," Chesterman, Cazoo's CEO, said in a statement Thursday.
MANZINI - Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, which has crippled the economy and affected many businesses, Cargo Carriers Swaziland employees smiled all the way to the bank when they were paid for September 2020.

This is because the workers received a bumper pay as per a collective bargaining agreement which was signed by the company and the Swaziland Transport Communication and Allied Workers Union (SWATCAWU).

The collective bargaining agreement was concluded and signed on September 9, 2020 and awarded the employees a five per cent pay rise.

Increase

On top of that, according to the employees, they were also entitled to a seven per cent increase in all corresponding allowances.

The collective agreement provided that the increments were effective from April 1, 2020, which meant that the workers got backpay of six months.

SWATCAWU Acting Secretary General Sticks Nkambule confirmed the latest developments.

He said they concluded the talks on September 9, 2020 and the collective bargaining agreement was effective from April 1, 2020 to March 31, 2021.

The acting secretary general added that on top of the five per cent pay rise and seven per cent increase on all corresponding allowances, the one-year settlement further made a provision for a job grading exercise, which endeavoured to put in place an equitable pay structure in the company.

He said as a trade union, they appreciated the settlement in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which invariably brought into being a global economic meltdown.

On the same note, Cargo Carriers Swaziland General Manager Nico Gerber also confirmed the collective bargaining agreement.

He said since they were in the agricultural sector, the COVID-19 pandemic did not affect them much.

He added that as a company, they always made sure that they looked after their employees because they could not do without them.

Awarded

It is worth noting that last financial year; the company also awarded its workers a five per cent pay rise.

Cargo Carriers Swaziland is one of the oldest multinational road freight companies, which had been operating on Eswatini roads for over half a century now. On the other hand, SWATCAWU, which was known as the Swaziland Transport and Allied Workers Union (STAWU) before 2017, is the oldest trade union in the transport industry, having been established in 1983.

Its name changed to SWATCAWU, pursuant to an amalgamation that took place in 2017.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Jeff Orlowski is no stranger to using his cinematic talent to bring attention to national -- and international -- issues.

In 2012, the Eltingville native debuted his award-winning film, Chasing Ice," which followed environmental photojournalist James Balogs exhaustive efforts to capture undeniable evidence of global warming.

This year, Orlowski is back in the limelight with the Netflix documentary The Social Dilemma, detailing how social media is silently controlling society on a personal level. The former Staten Islander met Tristan Harris, a former design ethicist at Google, in college and a conversation between the two created the premise for the film.

Once we started talking to experts about the software and how it works, we saw more of the intention behind it and thought to anthropomorphize it, Orlowski told AMNY. We thought about how we could make it as accessible, entertaining and engaging as possible while showing what the algorithms data has on us and feeling what they are trying to do.

Harris began to publicly criticize Googles business model in 2017, as well as the business models of other tech companies. Filming for The Social Dilemma began in 2018 and the documentary debuted at the Sundance Film Festival this year. A lineup of private screenings led up to its release on the streaming service, which was delayed due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The director has publicly spoken about the importance of incorporating the pandemic in the film due to misinformation about the virus being spread on social media.

This isnt the first project by Orlowski that has been picked up by Netflix. In 2017, the streaming service ran Chasing Coral" -- Orlowskis documentary on filmmakers and scientists protecting the oceans coral reef.

Orlowski came from humble beginnings on Staten Island.

Before scaling massive glaciers, he was on the debate team at Bernstein Intermediate School in Huguenot.

The Stuyvesant High School graduate went on to become the grand prize winner of 2004s MTV Free Ride Essay Contest, which celebrated higher education and the pursuit for a cleaner environment. The then-19-year-old took home a hybrid Toyota Prius and $50,000 in scholarships for winning. He went on to graduate from Stanford University in 2007.

Affected by the message behind The Social Dilemma," Orlowski is not currently active on social media. For more on his work, visit jefforlowski.com.
Baton Rouge, LA  Trooper Kasha Domingue was involved in an on-duty shooting incident during the course of a traffic stop on Perkins Road in Baton Rouge on Tuesday, July 10, 2018. Upon the completion of a thorough and detailed investigation by the Louisiana State Police Bureau of Investigations, the investigative findings were provided to the East Baton Rouge Parish District Attorneys Office.

Earlier today, an East Baton Rouge Grand Jury delivered a decision to indict Domingue on charges of Aggravated 2nd Degree Battery and Illegal Use/Discharge of a Weapon. Domingue has been placed on paid leave pending the administrative investigation. Domingue has been employed with LSP since August of 2015 and has been restricted to administrative duties at Troop A since the shooting incident.

Louisiana State Police began an immediate investigation into the incident and has cooperated fully with the East Baton Rouge District Attorneys Office, stated Colonel Kevin Reeves, Louisiana State Police Superintendent. I remain confident in our investigative process. Through the judicial system, I expect a fair and just outcome to this incident.

Upon issuance of the Grand Jury warrant, Domingue will be arrested by State Police Detectives and booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison.

No further information is available at this time pending the ongoing criminal and civil proceedings.
The Vietnamese logistics industry could tremendously improve its efficiency through digital solutions

This was stressed at the seminar titled "Logistics industry before the turning point of digital transformation. Risk management to properly and effectively digitize services", held in Ho Chi Minh City on September 30.

Nguyen Tuong, deputy secretary general of the Vietnam Logistics Association, pointed out three challenges keeping logistics companies from embracing digital transformation, including financial capacity, human resources, and choosing suitable technology. In particular, companies need from hundreds of millions to dozens of billions of dong to invest in digital technologies. However, the majority of Vietnamese logistics players are small- and medium-sized, so they lack the capital to digitise their operations.

In addition, there are few international-standard software offerings in Vietnam, making it difficult for local firms to choose suitable technology. Logistics leaders are not confident about data and payment security when implementing digital transformation. Both leaders and staff remain hesitant to change their habits for the digital environment. Thus, we need to change the perceptions of logistics companies, he said.

Nguyen Ngoc Dung, vice chairman of the Vietnam E-commerce Association (Vecom), shared that local firms have remained slow to embrace digital transformation in the past 10 years. A shipper in a developed market can deliver 200 parcels a day with map data to optimise routes. In Vietnam, a shipper can deliver two parcels a day on average as it takes time to find the address and wait for the recipient to collect the order.

Most e-commerce activities are taking place in big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Logistics companies also focus on the urban areas which increases shipment costs for long distance.

According to the Vietnam Logistics Association, not many logistics firms apply integrated solutions in their logistics and supply chains. Around 40 per cent of software applications remain basic such as international forwarding management, warehouse management, transport management, electronic data exchange, and customs declaration.
Tre Johnson spoke to the co-director behind Antebellum, starring Janelle Monae in her first lead role

Just a couple of weeks ago, Donald Trump issued a declaration to the nation to do away with racial sensitivity training that deals with things like white privilege and critical race theory. It wasnt a surprising move for a president whose motives have been largely rooted in turning back the clock to an America more defined by denial than in dealing with the nations culpability in racialized power and injustice.

Read More: Janelle Monae on Antebellum role: The world owes Black women so much

Like many of you, Ive sat in these kinds of trainings in workplace spaces over the years while concepts of diversity, cultural sensitivity, political correctness, inclusivity, and unpacking privilege were dispensed to help shed light on what we swim in and bring to our collective public spaces and how they inform and reflect our environments.

Those trainings were sometimes informative, sometimes cathartic, often controversial, and always left me wondering who is the intended audience? Was it the blind, well-intentioned white people sitting alongside me?

Was it the blissfully ignorant, defensive white people sitting a couple of seats over? Was it for the maligned and silenced Black and brown people forced to endure in these environments without any say or visibility?

When we left those rooms, we often left with fractured reflections; some people feeling charged, some people feeling attacked, some people feeling that the sessions were perfunctory, standard lip service, some feeling it was a waste of time, others feeling vindicated.

Films, particularly Black films, have in many ways served as a more accessible public critical race theory curriculum. This has been especially true in the last decade. Black filmmaking and stories have sought to be the instructors on Americas racial conscience as the country has increasingly begun sliding backward into a primordial hole weve labored to escape.

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This instruction has taken on a variety of rhetorical approaches. Theres been the directness of films like 12 Years a Slave; the allegorical Queen & Slim; the metaphorical Get Out; the lyrical Moonlight; and the fantastical Black Panther; amongst others. Increasingly, the horror genre is stepping in and up as the intersection of the literal feeling many Black Americans have with a storytelling genre that taps into that existential dread.

The aforementioned Get Out, but also Us, and the soon to be released Candyman are all dabbling in it, while TV series like Black Mirror, Lovecraft Country, and Watchmen have used bits of it to explain and translate the Black journey in America. All of these projects have found niche audiences that are still rife with tensions as they literally or figuratively leave the room, and with them comes the question  What justice or validation are Black people feeling and are white people even getting this?

Janelle Monae in Antebellum (Lionsgate)

I saw Antebellum at a small, private screening back in March, which now feels like approximately 15 years ago. When I left the screening, those were some of the things on my mind as I watched Janelle Monae spin between time and settings that would seem to be at odds with each other, but have a tenuous connection all the same. Since March, the world has, of course, become fantastically different, especially in terms of race as the pandemic sped up conversations long needed to be had and the collapses of a number of monuments.

Antebellum arrives several footsteps into a long-standing march, and just as it taps into the explicit new legacies of Get Out, 12 Years a Slave, and other recent films, and resurfaces many allusions to Octavia Butlers Kindred, its also a film finding its pace with a march thats several paces ahead of when it was made.

In a conversation with Gerard Bush, who co-wrote and co-directed Antebellum with Christopher Renz, who are known as Bush + Renz, all of these things were on my mind as we waded through space, time, race, and horror together. Below is the conversation.

Antebellum directors Christopher Renz and Gerard Bush (Lionsgate)

theGrio: Why was Janelle Monae the right person to lead this film?

Gerard Bush: We were really looking for someone that we couldnt even envision after we finished writing the character. She would have to be someone that had a mythological quality and also a woman that reminded me a bit of my grandmother, who was very strong and strong-willed and feisty. We would learn Janelle was in possession of a great reservoir of [all those qualities.] Its a huge undertaking, especially when youre talking about it being her first leading role and she delivered in spades. I think her performance is extraordinary. It was meant to be for her.

Why did you want to use time as such as important storytelling device inside of this movie?

Thats really interesting for us because it further underscores that time, in many ways, is an illusion. What if we could step out of one space and be in another space? Theres no difference in how Veronica or the other people were feeling at this plantation, it felt exactly the sameshe had an experience that took her from the modern world to a world down South of chattel slavery.

Do you feel like the pandemic and this current period of time is going to change how people might look at this film now?

Janelle Monae attends the 51st NAACP Image Awards, Presented by BET, at Pasadena Civic Auditorium on February 22, 2020 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

The country really cant agree on anything. I think that we are more polarized than ever and that we continue to find ourselves divided up in two increasingly fragmented factions. The pandemic, the quarantine, the racial reckoning, the uncertainty, the inequality, and the financial impact that the pandemic is having on so many people exacerbates some of the frustrations and anger and sadness that were already dealing with.

Antebellum is meant to show all of us that these things that we fear so much arent buried with the symbol. Whether that be the N-word or the Confederate statue of Robert E. Lee, just because theyre out of sight or its become socially unacceptable to use that language publicly, it doesnt in any way reflect a change or a decrease in the potency of white supremacy and how it impacts Black people in America and our country as a whole. So what wed like for people to see is just because something is out of sight, just because you fly over a part of the country, it doesnt mean that 30,000 feet underneath you is not incredible suffering as a result of the original sin of this country and how it continues to plague us in every corner and crevice. And just because you cant see it and its hidden from view or the words arent spoken publicly, doesnt mean that isnt happening. Its just hibernating and evolving.

Do you feel like there you were able to get all of that across in the film?

Were not here to provide the answers. We are here to make people ask questions and look at it differently, perhaps, than they did before. Even at the end of the movie, its not this box with a red bow on it that ties everything up. Its a nightmare ended. It gives you this feeling. I think it replicates the feeling of waking up from a nightmare and thats what were trying to achieve; that you woke up from a nightmare and you think to yourself, Oh my God, Im so glad its not my life.

Can you talk about why you held out on the tension of the big reveal as long as you did in the film?

Because you needed to sit in that discomfort and you needed to be indoctrinated into the idea of what this is. Your mind is convinced of what it is, and then suddenly when its not, it is sort of a cycle of psychological gymnastics. You go back to the beginning of the movie and the way that you perceive the beginning of the movie has bloomed and evolved into something else based on this new information. Youre then going back and it makes what you saw that much more disorienting, horrific, and disturbing.

How do you think white and Black audiences will receive this film?

There will be a great swath of folks in the Black community that will stand up and cheer. As far as white people are concerned, we were trying to make a movie that will also reach down because the younger members of white America are not getting the truth. There was a study just released that says the majority of American students dont even know that six million Jews were murdered in the Holocaust.

I hear from Black people all the time who say theyre so tired of the slave narrative and [that they] wouldnt last one minute on a plantation. I think that we need to get really clear on our past. I think that we need to because we need to reexamine it thoroughly as we move into this process of dismantling and rebuild the scaffolding that continues to support growth and equity as it relates to Black America.

How would you help people frame how to look at the acts of violence, the early slave scenes, and some of the character choices and behavior early on in the film?

I think that some people obviously do not know their history and they should probably go and do that work before responding with such a reckless and accurate description of what that is. [Christopher and I] did a lot of research on what that period looked like and when I tell you that we dont even begin to scratch the surface of the cruelty inflicted on these people; not even close.

If we decided to do that, we would have told the story where this white woman slave owner would starve her 14-year-old house slave and then tempt her with apples and candy and leave it in a very specific area and see if she would try to take it and eat it. Eventually, the little girl couldnt take it anymore and took a little piece of candy and ate it. Her punishment was to lay her head underneath the womans rocking chair so she could rock back and forth over her face, breaking her jaw and disfiguring her. And this was just one of the myriad atrocities that Black enslaved people faced on the plantation, so to call it cartoonish is to be really naive and not well-informed. That is the kind of cruelty that was the metastasizing psychopathy of the antebellum South. Thats what that looked like, and so we wanted to be accurate in our reflection of that.

Because you had a multiracial cast on the set, what was it like to navigate with everybody involved? How did you decide the line between what was too far or far enough?

Read More: Janelle Monae says filming Antebellum on plantation was triggering

We knew that every single person involved in the movie is involved in the movie for the right reasons. And they were all making tremendous sacrifices to do this. There wasnt anyone that was deriving some sadistic satisfaction from being, you know, disgustingly cruel to Black people. No one enjoyed any of this. This is hard workWe have moved into this place where our moviegoing audience in America has become so hypersensitive to anything that disturbs them and anything that makes them uncomfortable. Theyve become so accustomed to theme park rides that distract them from the reality of the world that we live in. I hope that this movie wakes them up out of the idea that a superhero with a cape from another planet is going to come to save us. It is only us who can save us from us.

Have you subscribed to theGrios podcast Dear Culture? Download our newest episodes now!

The post Antebellum co-director Gerard Bush on star Janelle Monae, Black history and more appeared first on TheGrio.
As the competition among employers for top tier talent grows ever fiercer, so does the importance placed on employee benefits. After all, why go with Company A when Company B offers an equal salary but a few extra bells and whistles? Among these benefits is a focus on employee health and well-being. A healthy workforce can mean lower stress and fewer employees calling out sick, which means increased wins for the business overall.

Initiatives that place an emphasis on employee health are needed perhaps more than ever, too. Its reported that 63% of adults in the U.K. are overweight and its not much better in the United States, amounting to a problem in the billions for healthcare. Employers are taking notice of the need for robust health programs for team members and according to a survey by Society for Human Resource Management, wellness benefits increased more than any other area in 2019.

Just like fashion, food, and music, wellness trends come and go and some are on the rise more than others (dont expect to see jazzercise classes in the company gym). In fact, its not so much a new focus on the physical when it comes to employee well-being, but mental, holistic, and tech approaches to health.

Mental health offerings are increasing

Despite technology making many aspects of our lives easier, people are more stressed today than they were a few decades ago. While this may not seem especially surprising, it has resulted in an increased focus on not just the physical health of employees, but mental health. The trend of employers offering a broader spectrum of mental health services seems to be rising with an 11 percent increase in company mindfulness programs and a 13 percent increase in on-site stress management programs.

The stigma around mental health has shifted dramatically over the last few decades. Whereas mental health issues were at one-time taboo, individuals are encouraged more than ever to seek out mental health resources without fear of judgment. This has led to companies such as American Express taking an active stance with its Healthy Minds program that offers on-site counseling and emotional support services.

Related: Self-Compassion Is an Essential Tool for all Entrepreneurs

The increase in mental health benefits isnt going unnoticed either. According to a survey published by Aetna, 80 percent of respondents would give higher marks to an employer who offered mental health services over one that did not.

A holistic approach to employee well-being

Another emerging well-being trend that employers would be wise to take notice of is the holistic approach. With the workforce rapidly changing, employers must look to well-being programs that acknowledge a work/life blend over a work/life balance. Whats this mean exactly?

In short, it means employers will need to construct benefits plans that address both mind and body components of an employees life. Employees are looking to their employers to help with the issues that may be unique to their particular life, such as getting out of debt, legal counsel, or becoming more involved in their community, in addition to mental and physical needs.

There was this initial focus on health and fitnessphysical health, Sarah Sardella, senior director for global benefits at Akamai Technologies told the Society for Human Resource Management. Now everyone is saying What about financial wellness, emotional well-being and mental mindfulness? This is especially true when it comes to younger workers with Generation Z and Millennial employees placing higher importance on holistic employer programs than older workers.

Incorporation of tech and artificial intelligence

Dont act too surprised to see tech in the lineup of emerging employee well-being trends. Employees in the workforce today expect their employers to provide them with the latest technological tools and apps to keep their health in check. Whether its a device such as a Fitbit to ensure theyre hitting those daily recommended 10,000 steps or some form of telehealth to communicate with a health professional virtually. For example, the SHRM survey found that company-offered telehealth services for employees increased by 10 percent in 2019  and this is expected to increase in 2020 and 2021 with Covid.

Related: Is Covid-19 a Mental Health Tipping Point?

Tech is finding its way into employee well-being programs in numerous ways, from virtual clinics to companies such as Apple offering genetic testing to Silicon Valley employees. Not surprisingly, many tech companies are also incorporating AI into these programs to better predict employee needs.

Peer collaboration is key for a productive team, and when employees are stressed, tired, or sick, this lags. Companies are already at work in finding ways to team up AI with HR to help reduce employee burnout. Aside from identifying employee stress, AI is also emerging as a growing resource to better manage healthcare enrollment and aid employees in selecting the optimal healthcare plan. This reduces the likelihood theyll be over-insured, which in turn, can save on company healthcare costs.

The bottom line is that like with any aspect of business, employee health needs are shifting and leaders should keep up with the changes. Were likely to see these trends emerger even stronger in a post-Covid world as a greater focus is placed on keeping the workforce healthy.

Related:

Is Your Company Embracing These Employee Well-Being Trends?

3 Things To Know About the New Cat Que Virus

Healthcare is in Turmoil, But Technology Can Save Businesses Billions



Copyright 2020 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved
The United Arab Emirates, the United States and Israel issued a joint statement on Thursday about developing a joint strategy in the energy sector, the state news agency (WAM) reported.

The statement, issued by energy ministers, also stressed that countries will seek solutions for energy challenges the Palestinian people face by developing energy resources, technologies, and related infrastructure.

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Lily Collins has revealed her engagement ring is 'exactly what she wanted' as she shared details from fiance Charlie McDowell's special proposal.

The actress, 31, said the rose-cut diamond was designed by filmmaker Charlie, 37, who collaborated with jewellery maker Irene Neuwirth to create the perfect ring.

Les Miserables star Lily shared the happy news of her engagement on Instagram last Friday after Charlie popped the question on a romantic date during a road trip through New Mexico.

Set to wed! Lily Collins has revealed that her engagement ring is 'exactly what she wanted' as she shares details from fiance Charlie McDowell's special proposal

Making a virtual appearance on Thursday's episode of the US talk show Live with Kelly and Ryan, she said of the ring: 'It's a rose-cut diamond. Charlie designed it with Irene (Neuwirth).'

'I was very surprised by it, but it's exactly what I would've wanted and he knew me so well, obviously.'

She also revealed she knew Charlie - who is the son of actor Malcolm McDowell - was the one 'the second' they met, but she had no idea when he would propose.

On cloud nine: The actress, 31, said the rose-cut diamond was designed by filmmaker Charlie, 37, who collaborated with jewellery designer Irene Neuwirth to create the perfect ring

'I can't believe I get to call myself a fiancee now. I was very surprised as to when and where it would happen.

'But it was kind of one of those situations where I knew the second that I met him, that I wanted to be his wife one day', she shared during the chat.

The brunette beauty added: 'It was just a matter of when, really. 'We were just on a road trip through New Mexico in Sedona for the last week. And it happened in New Mexico.'

'You have illuminated my life': Artist Charlie uploaded a photo of his new fiancee beaming with delight after the proposal last week, with an accompanying caption

Lily shared the happy news of her engagement on her social media last week alongside images of the couple kissing and the moment he proposed.

The star, who confirmed her relationship with The One I Love director last August, wrote: 'I've been waiting my lifetime for you and I can't wait to spend our lifetime together...'.

Artist Charlie uploaded a separate photo of his new fiancee beaming with delight, with an accompanying caption which read: 'In a time of uncertainty and darkness you have illuminated my life. I will forever cherish my adventure with you.'

Lily is the latest in a long line of A-List partners for Charlie, who directed The One I Love and The Discovery.

How sweet! Lily took to Instagram last Friday to share the happy news alongside images of the couple kissing and the moment he proposed during a romantic date

The LA native has dated several high-profile actresses, including Emilia Clarke, 33, Hilary Duff, 32, and Rooney Mara, 35.

Charlie was in a relationship with Hilary for three months between September and December 2007.

The Bye Bye Benjamin star then had a serious romance with Rooney for over six years from 2010, which came to an end in September 2016.

Charlie and Game Of Thrones star Emilia confirmed they were dating in October 2018, but the relationship fizzled out and they called it quits in February 2019.

Just the two of us: The thespian confirmed her romance with the LA native on Instagram last year when he flew out to the French capital to visit her on the set of Emily In Paris (pictured)

Lily has also had her fair share of headline-grabbing relationships, including a brief romance with her Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil, and Vile co-star Zac Efron, 32, in 2012.

The brunette had an on/off romance with British actor Jamie Campbell Bower, 31, for five years after meeting on the set of The Mortal Instruments, but the pair called it quits for good in 2018.

Lily and Charlie both have famous parents in common; Lily's dad is British musician Phil Collins, while Charlie is the son of actor Malcolm McDowell and actress Mary Steenburgen.

Late last year, the pair took their relationship to the next level as they adopted their rescue dog, and have been living together in Los Angeles amid the coronavirus pandemic.
A self-described member of the Proud Boys, a far-right group, pleaded not guilty to a dozen charges Thursday related to clashes in the streets of Portland between right- and left-wing demonstrators in the run-up to Novembers presidential election.

Alan Swinney, 50, was secretly indicted on Sept. 11 on charges that include assault and unlawful use of a weapon after authorities said he pointed a revolver at a protester and fired a paintball gun and mace at people on two occasions in August.

He was not arrested until Wednesday and made his first court appearance Thursday. He remained in custody.

Swinneys defense attorney, Eric Wolfe, did not immediately return a call seeking comment.

President Donald Trump told the Proud Boys to stand back and stand by when asked to denounce white supremacists during the debate Tuesday with former Vice President Joe Biden. Trump was widely criticized for not definitively denouncing white supremacist groups.

Amid the fallout, the president said Wednesday that he had never heard of the Proud Boys and told them to stand down and let law enforcement do their job.

The Proud Boys have held several rallies in Portland, most recently last weekend when several hundred members of the group gathered to express their support for Trump and the police and to condemn protests in the city that often end in violence and vandalism.

The Proud Boys call themselves Western chauvinists and are known for their violent confrontations with antifascists and other ideological opponents at protests. Members have been spotted at various Trump rallies, including last month in Nevada.

The Southern Poverty Law Center was sued for defamation after it designated the Proud Boys a hate group.

The Proud Boys have distanced themselves from Swinney, who has identified himself as a member and has a Proud Boys tattoo on his arm. Court documents show he moved to Sandy about eight months ago from Texas.

-- The Associated Press
This 23-year-old helps lovelorn TikTokers get answers from their exes. (Photo: TikTok)

Why did we break up?

Its a question that looms on the minds of many at the end of a relationship, but Pearl Davis has used it to launch herself into full-time TikTok stardom.

Davis, who goes by @justpearlythings, created an account on the social platform in May, and has already amassed close to 100,000 followers. Her expeditious success stems mostly from the Breakup Quiz series the 23-year-old created earlier this month.

Inspired by another users quiz about ghosting (that is, cutting off communication without any form of explanation), Davis created her own. Based on feedback from her fans, she included plenty of personal questions like How long did we date?; What is your favorite memory?; How long did you want to break up before we did?; Would you ever want to date again? and Did you cheat on me?

To date, Davis says that more than 9,000 people have utilized her quiz to get answers from their exes. Davis, who gets the responses and then shares results in a short video, has created about 20 posts so far, with her favorite being one that was not funny like my typical content, but ... a quiz about an ex who passed away. It was very sad, but ... moving.

Because of the volume of participants, she hasnt been able to read them all and admits some are a bit TMI (too much information). I try to post appropriate ones. I know there are kids on this app, so the bigger I get, the more I try to keep it PG, she adds. In fact, the TikToker says shes received a number of responses with more graphically-described sex acts as well as some that seem more disrespectful, which she is opting not to post for this reason.

Davis herself has yet to send the quiz to anyone in her past, though.

I actually have not had a boyfriend that was serious enough for me to send it to, hence why I had my followers take it. The only long term relationship I can think of is a guy I talked to for a couple of years in college. I do not think he would take it, she says, adding that if he sent it to her, she would likely respond.

Story continues

She did, however, send a ghosting quiz to a few former paramours, asking about her conversation skills and specific reasons as to why communication was unceremoniously cut off.

For now, Davis has plenty of fodder for her account, with plans to keep creating and posting more quizzes, among other things. People have requested all types of quizzes that I am in the process of making. A couples examples are ex-roommates, co-workers, a cheaters quiz and mistress quiz. My followers have given me a ton of ideas that I plan on creating for them, she says.

The Milwaukee-based TikToker has even more plans, having recently quit her sales job to pursue media. Davis plans to continue growing her account, as well as launching a website, and YouTube channel, all under JustPearlyThings. Additionally, she plans to study digital media management in Bournemouth, England early next year.

She also wants to eventually get on board with some sponsored content and selling products, hoping to collaborate with brands shes already a fan of (like Chipotle).

I have not figured out the details yet, but the goal is definitely to make it a business, says Davis.

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Gov. Gavin Newsom toured the site of a burned Napa County elementary school Thursday morning, while an army of firefighters prepared for winds that threaten to fan four-day-old fires burning outside Calistoga and on the valleys western edge.

Surveying the charred remains of the Foothills Elementary School in Deer Park, Newsom said he intends to commit more money in the coming years budget for the states firefighting forces.

Ive got four young kids in elementary school, and I cant imagine for the parents whats going on in their minds, with all the anxiety going into the school year, to see their precious school burned down We have your backs, Newsom said.

As of Thursday morning, the Glass Fire had destroyed 107 Napa County homes, damaged 31 more and sent shock waves through the Upvalley wine industry.

The fire had grown to 56,781 acres in Napa and Sonoma counties Thursday, prompting new evacuations in the Calistoga area and in the western hills in the mid-valley.

Winds of 10 to 15 mph were expected from the northwest, with gusts to 25 mph or more, with the National Weather Service issuing a Red Flag warning that runs until 6 a.m. Saturday.

There are currently more than 18,000 Napa County residents under mandatory or advisory evacuation orders, with shelter centers set up at CrossWalk Community Church and at Napa Valley College in Napa.

A third location at American Canyon High School was set up Wednesday to serve the vulnerable elderly and those with special needs, said Janet Upton, the countys public information officer. It is not a shelter for the general population, she said.

Smoky air from the Glass Fire continued to hang over the Napa Valley Thursday, with air quality crossing into the very unhealthy range at mid-day, according to the Bay Area Air Quality Management District.

Napa had the unhealthiest air in the Bay Area. The Bay Area Air Quality Management District extended its Spare the Air alert until Tuesday because of smoke from Napa and other regional fires.

When air is rated very unhealthy, active children and adults, and people with respiratory disease such as asthma, should avoid all outdoor exertion. Everyone else, especially children, should limit outdoor exertion, the district advises.

The Napa County Board of Supervisors held a special meeting Thursday afternoon to talk about the Glass Fire and the even more devastating Hennessey Fire in August that destroyed 300 homes.

While we have lost some buildings, more than weve ever lost before, I am confident we saved the vast majority of them thanks to the heroic efforts of our firefighters, Supervisor Ryan Gregory said.

For those who suffered losses in the fires, the county will be with them to the end in the recovery effort, Gregory said.

The Glass Fire started early Sunday morning outside Deer Park, then quickly spread from the east side of the Napa Valley to the west side, then into Sonoma County where it has destroyed 36 single-family homes, Cal Fire reported.

The Glass Fire is now 5% contained, but continuing to spread overnight Wednesday and Thursday near Calistoga and west of St. Helena, Cal Fire said.

A handful of Napa County wineries have been destroyed, as well as several resort properties. Cal Fire said Thursday that five commercial buildings had been destroyed in Napa County and four had been damaged, but assessments are still being made.

Earlier evacuation orders remaining in effect over a broad swath of the Upvalley, include Calistoga, St. Helena and the communities of Deer Park and Angwin.

Pacific Gas & Electric said it does not expect to call a Public Safety Power Shutoff due to the predicted winds.

Because of the high heat over California, PG&E said the state power grid had issued a Flex Alert asking that the public conserve energy between 3 and 10 p.m. Thursday to reduce the demand on the electrical system.

PG&E on Thursday had restored power to about 1,500 homes and businesses in Calistoga, utility spokesperson Deanna Contreras said. Calistoga is under an evacuation order because of the Glass Fire.

About 6,600 customers as of Thursday at noon were still without power. They were in Calistoga, Angwin, Deer Park, St. Helena and Pope Valley. The reason is because of Glass Fire damage or because firefighters asked that lines be de-energized for safety, Contreras said.

Newsom was accompanied by a cluster of dignitaries during his Napa visit, including Cal Fire Director Thom Porter; Rep. Mike Thompson, D-St. Helena; State Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa; Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry, D-Winters; and Napa County Sheriff John Robertson.

Newsom said he hoped the explosion of wildfires in California would put the global predicament of a changing climate into the forefront of more peoples minds, if not President Trump, whom he described as having a different point of view than 98% of the worlds scientists.

Trump accuses California of mismanaging its forests, and Newsom agreed that more forest and vegetation management was needed.

In California, 57% of forestland is owned or maintained by the federal government, the state owns roughly 5% and the remainder is private property.

Register reporter Barry Eberling contributed to this report. Julie Johnson, a reporter at the Press Democrat, contributed to this story as the pool reporter for Newsoms visit.







Watch Now: Deer Park decimated by Glass Fire

You can reach City Editor Kevin Courtney at kcourtney@napanews.com or at 707-256-2217.

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The Justice Department is fighting a court order that halted the use of a COVID-era loophole to detain hundreds of children in hotels rather than licensed immigration facilities and then expel them from the country without access to lawyers or deportation proceedings.

Hotel detentions for children, toddlers and infants  which sometimes lasted weeks  came about when the CDC issued a public health order March 20 that shut the border to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Under this provision, Customs and Border Protection began funneling minors who wanted asylum or lacked entry visas through a different chain of custody that bypassed protections that date back decades. These accompanied and unaccompanied children were detained under the CDCs coronavirus order, the government said, so they werent privy to safeguards for children detained under immigration law.

ICE officials said in the wake of a ruling banning this practice, no unaccompanied children have been housed in hotels since Sept. 11.

Melissa Adamson, class counsel for the children at the National Center for Youth Law, called the policy particularly egregious given there are more than 10,000 beds available at licensed refugee shelters.

The governments detention of children in unlicensed and unmonitored hotels presents a significant risk of harm to these children, as children are supervised by private contractors who do not have licensure or appropriate training in childrens development, trauma or legal rights, she said.

Jennifer Podkul, vice president for policy at Kids in Need of Defense, which provides lawyers to unaccompanied children, views the detentions as a symptom of a larger problem, that children who have legitimate claims for asylum are being denied due process. In order to avoid giving these kids their rights they were stashing them in hotel rooms, she said.

My understanding is that finding these kids in hotels around the country is kind of a needle in a haystack, she said.

The majority of at least 660 child detentions between March and July occurred in Texas, including some at a Doubletree hotel in Houston. The mostly unaccompanied children were held in 25 hotels in Texas, Arizona and Louisiana, according to court documents.

The children were kept 24/7 in mid-tier chain hotel rooms and supervised by MVM Transport, an ICE contractor normally used for transportation. MVM employees undergo a few hours of training on child development and crisis intervention during their two-day orientation, according to court documents.

The government said the children play board or video games and watch TV and movies to keep them comfortable, engaged, and at ease. But the trial judge highlighted a finding that a list of amenities is not a system of care for children of different ages and developmental stages. The judge also cited a report that found a detention experience need not require mistreatment to be traumatic for a young child.

In late July, Roberto Lopez, a community organizer with the Texas Civil Rights Project, visited a Hampton Inn & Suites in McAllen where he witnessed two unmarked white vans loaded with children and adults and several other vans parked in the hotel lot. Lopez saw people in scrubs going from room to room or seated on chairs on several floors. On one floor, a boy who was about 2 was gripping a baby gate in a doorway as an adult on the other side of the gate played with him. Lopez heard the cries of at least one child from the hallway. Employees at a nearby taqueria told Lopez theyd made about 60 meals for the children and families in the hotel whom they understood were awaiting expulsion.

Employees working with the children later physically blocked attorneys from contacting them about their rights, according to he Texas Civil Rights Project. The nonprofit group later sued the government for summarily expelling dozens of unaccompanied minors under the CDC order without due process.

Class counsel for the accompanied and unaccompanied children say holding children under these conditions, denying them access to lawyers and licensed care providers and expelling them from the country amounts to a flagrant violation of a longstanding settlement.

U.S. District Judge Dolly Gee ruled the government had circumvented fundamental humanitarian protections, saying the conditions were not adequately safe nor did they sufficiently account for the vulnerability of unaccompanied minors in detention. Under the landmark 1997 Flores settlement, all detained immigrant children must be placed in state licensed facilities, supervised by childcare professionals and protected by due process afforded to refugees, she said.

In a footnote to her September order denying the stay, Gee called the CDC detentions an opaque, unregulated, ad hoc program.

The children were exposed to unnecessary risk, the judge said, because hotel staff in cities such as Houston, San Antonio, McAllen, El Paso and Phoenix moved back and forth from communities that experienced high rates of COVID-19 transmission and were exposed to travelers who could have been exposed at nearby airports.

The government has argued that the children were not protected by the order, nor were they entitled to immigration custody, since theyd entered the U.S. in violation of public health law, preventing entry during the coronavirus pandemic. The hotel stays are an emergency action, the rooms are safe and sanitary, and most children are expelled from the country within days, according to government lawyers.

A lawyer for Homeland Security told a panel of 9th circuit judges at a video hearing Wednesday that local communities would suffer irreparable harm if children stayed in licensed shelters because there isnt enough space to comply with social distancing requirements.

U.S. Judge Milan D. Smith Jr. in California countered with the governments own data, indicating a sharp decline in such detentions: Theyre only 3 percent occupied. They can go up to 30 percent.

As of late August, the shelters had more than 10,000 empty beds, according to pleadings.

Deputy Attorney General Scott Stewart disputed the 30 percent cap at group shelters, saying that number was based on early and less stringent calculations about the danger the virus posed. He told another judge: The concern, your honor, is that once we have a bottleneck, weve already got the problem that we were trying to avoid.

Class counsel for the children told the appellate judges that without access or information, there is no way to accurately assess the conditions in hotels.

Theyre all over the map when it comes to the number of children and where theyre being held, said Carlos Holguin, of the Center for Human Rights and Constitutional Law. Frankly right now this situation with children in hotels is sort of a black hole. The government has refused to give up information on any kind of a coherent basis regarding the treatment of these children and in facthas run out lawyers whove attempted to come in and assist children on a pro bono basis.

Podkul said the government has been inconsistent in claiming its goal is to protect people from the virus. This is an administration (that) is keeping immigrants detained in crowded ICE facilities. Theyre packed even with COVID running rampant. Theyre continuing deportation flights. Theyre sticking kids on crowded deportation flights yet theyre claiming that they cant legally process these children under the law. Its absurd.

Plaintiffs argued that legal services providers are often unaware that unaccompanied children have been detained under the CDC order unless a parent or family member calls seeking help.

The appellate judges are expected to rule by Monday on the governments request for a stay. A Justice Department appeal of the order halting the hotel stays is also pending.

gabrielle.banks@chron.com
Navalny, who was barred from running for president in 2018, has frequently been jailed and harassed. And this was not the first time he has been the victim of a toxic attack. In 2017, Navalny was attacked with an antiseptic green dye that damaged his vision in one of his eyes.
Sen. Susan Collins was already in a tight spot. The Republican from Maine was trailing her Democratic challenger, Sara Gideon, in nearly every major poll. She was struggling to distance herself from Donald Trump, who earned a 59 percent unfavorable rating from Mainers in a recent poll. And then Ruth Bader Ginsburg died.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell issued a statement within hours that promised, President Trumps nominee will receive a vote on the floor of the United States Senate. It sounded like he knew he had enough votes to push another Supreme Court nominee through. Political observers and concerned Americans immediately turned to the Republican senators running tight reelection races, including Collins: Would they support the unpopular president, defying the precedent set by McConnell himself when he blocked hearings on Merrick Garland for the entire last year of Barack Obamas presidency? Or would they try to appeal to centrist and center-left voters by sitting this one out?

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In this climate, with this president, and with polls showing that Mainers clearly want the winner of the November election to pick the next justice, who was Collins tortured, pseudo-diplomatic response for?

The day after Ginsburgs death, Collins issued her first statement on the vacant court seat. She used the most ambiguous possible terms: I do not believe that the Senate should vote on the nominee prior to the election, she said, adding that the decision on a lifetime appointment to the Supreme Court should be made by the President who is elected on November 3rd. The statement contained one believe, two shoulds, and no mention of what Collins would actually do if Trumps nominee came up for a vote. It was baggy enough to accommodate hopes on both sides of the aisle.

It wasnt until three days later, hours after Sen. Mitt Romney announced that he would support a preelection vote on a Trump nomineelocking in an all-but-certain GOP victorythat Collins took a concrete stance. My statement was a model of clarity, she said, as if those whod noticed her noncommitment were the disingenuous ones. I made it very clear, yes, that I did not think there should be a vote prior to the election. And if there is one, I would oppose the nominee.

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No part of this Collins news cycle came as a surprise to the Maine voters whove turned against her in the years since Trumps election. Not her initial opacity, phrased as fair-minded deliberation. Not the fact that it took her two statements over three days to deliver anything resembling an actionable position on an issue. Not her implied admonishment of those constituents whod asked for a clearer explanation. Certainly not that she landed on a decision that aligned with the Democratsand a strong majority of Mainersonly after Sen. Mitch McConnell had secured enough GOP votes to confirm a Trump nominee without her.

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Some of those voters say this episode has been a perfect microcosm of Collins tenure as theyve come to understand it. Collins was perfectly teed up to do exactly what we thought she would: find her moral center only after McConnell found his votes, said Karin Leuthy, 48, a Maine Democrat who voted for Collins in 2014 and now runs a progressive advocacy group thats working to oust the senator. We have her number. We know all her moves.

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Conventional wisdom has long held that conservative voters are more motivated by the judiciary than liberal ones. But in the past few years, as the ideological balance of the Supreme Court has shifted, that notion has been proved wrong: Democrats are now more driven by court concerns than Republicans are. In a recent Quinnipiac University poll of likely Maine voters, 19 percent of Democrats ranked the Supreme Court as the top issue that mattered to their choice of senator. Only health care netted more first-place picks.

In this climate, with this president, and with polls showing that Mainers clearly want the winner of the November election to pick the next justice, who was Collins tortured, pseudo-diplomatic response for? Most Maine Democratic voters39 percent of whom supported Collins in her last electionhave given up on the idea that moderate Republican are allies in the Trump era. Is there anything Collins could do during this SCOTUS nomination process to win back Democrats support? If she spent every last minute of her time authentically trying to convince her Republican colleagues to join her in opposing the nomination, and if she gave an impassioned speech in support of Joe Biden, maybe we would tone down some of our criticism, Leuthy told me. But wed still vote against her.

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Collins wont say so directly this cycle, but its obvious that she isnt a huge fan of Trump. The senator wrote an op-ed against him in the runup to the 2016 election, and if she didnt like him then, three years of his high crimes and misdemeanors cant have converted her. But if Collins were to out-and-out admit her distaste for the president, she would reap minimal benefits. Some avid Trump supporters in Maine, whose allegiance to the president outweighs their appreciation for control of the Senate, might abandon her completely. Whether theyd be willing to give up the Senate out of spite is anyones guess, but Collins social media pages are full of Maine Republicans demanding she vote to seat Trumps nominee, the radically conservative judge Amy Coney Barrett. Another complication: Maines ranked-choice voting system means these dissatisfied Republicans could cast their vote for the conservative (and eccentric anti-masker) independent Max Linn and list Collins as their second choice, which would be counted only if no candidate wins a majority of first-choice votes. But will Collins refusal to vote for Barrett before the election, when the GOP can easily do it without her, push any significant number of Maine Republicans over the edge? In the Quinnipiac survey, just 9 percent of Republicans placed the Supreme Court at the top of the list of issues that matter to their Senate votes. And even if Collins wont endorse the president, her campaign has been boasting to Republican voters that shes voted with Trump 94 percent of the time. They know shes on their side when it counts.

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The last group, then, is independentswho actually outnumber registered Republicans in Collins state. Several recent polls have shown them leaning toward Gideon by a comfortable margin. And a recent Suffolk UniversityBoston Globe poll found that self-described moderate voters prefer Gideon to Collins by a margin of 15 percentage points. Just 37 percent support Collins, down from 72 percent of moderate voters who cast their ballots for her in 2014. This used to be Collins constituency: not the dyed-in-the-wool Democrats, not the rabid Trump-boosting conservatives, but the people in the middle who were drawn in by the idea of a plain-spoken, evenhanded legislator who was willing to break from her party when it diverged from her values. But the sight of Collins tiptoeing around Trumpa president she plainly dislikesat a moment when our very democracy is at stake has disabused these voters of their image of Collins. They arent likely to be dissuaded by a last-minute show of mettle.

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Part of that clarity has come from the numerous efforts of Maine activists who oppose Collins. Many are former Collins voters themselves, people who spent weeks pressuring Collins to vote against Brett Kavanaugh in 2018. After Trump nominated Kavanaugh, Leuthy teamed up with a few issue-based advocacy groups in Maine to research Kavanaughs judicial history and prepare a briefing packet for Collins that opposed the judge based on the qualities Collins had said she looked for in a judicial nominee. On two occasions, the cohort met with members of Collins staff to review the research. Leuthy was gutted when Collins voted for Kavanaugh anyway, which is why she, along with many Mainers, has now spent a considerable part of the past two years agitating against her in an effort to flip the Senate seat.

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This time, Leuthy isnt even bothering with a direct appeal to the senator. We dont have time to play those reindeer games, she said. If we want to honor RBG, we need to demonstrate that we can deliver the Senate and the White House. Theres not much we can do to stop Trump from getting his Supreme Court pick, but we can sure as hell make sure he never gets any more. Mainers close reading of Collins statement includes the observation that she did not note how she would vote in a lame-duck period (hers or the presidents). I think it would be fair to say that distrust of Senator Collins is high and that we parse every statement she makes very carefully, James Cook, 49, a Maine progressive activist, told me. He and his peers have gotten wise to Collins techniques for obscuring her positions on issues, and in this case, in both her statements, she left a loophole large enough to drive a truck through.

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But Mainers realize that McConnell has the votes anyway, and many view Barretts nomination as a done deal. So, theyve begun to adjust their focus accordingly. Some are already preparing to push Gideon to support adding seats to the Supreme Court if Gideon beats Collins in November. Others are wary of making any early demands of the Democratic candidate before shes clinched the seat. (Gideon has said she will evaluate any proposals based on whether theyll help us return the judiciary to an independent body free from politics but has doubts that expanding the Supreme Court would do that.) Some are still holding out hope that Sen. Angus King, a Maine independent who caucuses with the Democrats, can be prodded to abandon his generally agreeable demeanor and take drastic, possibly controversial measureslike holding more impeachment hearingsto stall the Barrett vote until the election has been decided, though they dont all agree on which tactics are advisable, or feasible.

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An Indivisible chapter in Bangor held a Zoom meeting on Sept. 23 to decide how to respond. Someone suggested holding a protest on the day Ginsburg was set to lay in state at the U.S. Capitol, but another member thought it might seem disrespectful to politicize her death on that particular day. What would RBG want us to do? someone wondered. Several people responded with gusto: Raise hell! Linda Mosley, 59, urged the group to think again. Ginsburg would want us to raise hell, but shed want us to be strategic, Mosley said, pointing out that the main goal of their action wasnt to pressure Collins but to win over other Maine voters who might be undecided on the Senate or presidential race. The group had opened their meeting by reading a few quotes from Ginsburg, including this one: Fight for the things that you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.

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The chapter ended up doing it both ways: On the day Ginsburg lay in state, members created a street-side memorial full of flowers for the late justice and sent sympathy cards containing her dying wish (that I will not be replaced until a new president is installed) to the offices of both Collins and King. Two days later, they held a No Confirmation Before Inauguration rally, taking care to focus on the illegitimacy of a justice seated weeks before a presidential election that will likely be contested, rather than their specific objections to Barrett.

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But even with all this action, no one is spending much time on Collins herself. Shes already committed to doing the thing most Mainers want her to dofor now, anywayand the GOP doesnt need her to get its way. But even though shes on their side this time, sort of, theyve lost faith in Collins convincibility and her willingness to take bold action to stop Trump. So theyre fully focused on replacing her. In the last Supreme Court fight, Maine activists perceived Collins as holding an inordinate amount of power. In this one, theyve all but written her off as irrelevant.
Tokyo, Oct 1 : The Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE) halted trading on Thursday due to a technical glitch, the cause of which is under probe.

Due to the outage which is having a major impact on businesses and individual investors, stock exchanges in Nagoya, Fukuoka and Sapporo have also suspended activity because they also use the TSE system to execute trades, Japan's public broadcaster NHK said in a news report.

About 3,700 companies are listed on the TSE.

In a statement, the TSE said that there was no timeline for when they will reopen.

But the exchange in Osaka is currently trading.

This is the first time the TSE has suspended all trading since January of 2006.

That outage was due to a surge in trading that exceeded the system's processing capacity, the NHK report said.

The system was developed by Japanese tech giant Fujitsu.

The company has said that it was currently looking into the problem.

Meanwhile, Japan's Financial Services Agency has launched a probe into the cause of the outage.
A study from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Cedars-Sinai addresses a mystery first raised in March: Why do some people with COVID-19 develop severe inflammation? The research shows how the molecular structure and sequence of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein-part of the virus that causes COVID-19-could be behind the inflammatory syndrome cropping up in infected patients.

The study, published this week in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, uses computational modeling to zero in on a part of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein that may act as a "superantigen," kicking the immune system into overdrive as in toxic shock syndrome-a rare, life-threatening complication of bacterial infections.

Symptoms of a newly identified condition in pediatric COVID-19 patients, known as Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C), include persistent fever and severe inflammation that can affect a host of bodily systems. While rare, the syndrome can be serious or even fatal.

The first reports of this condition coming out of Europe caught the attention of study co-senior author Moshe Arditi, M.D., director of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Immunology Division at Cedars-Sinai and an expert on another pediatric inflammatory disease-Kawasaki disease.

Arditi contacted his long-time collaborator, Ivet Bahar, Ph.D., distinguished professor and John K. Vries Chair of computational and systems biology at Pitt School of Medicine, and the two started searching for features of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that might be responsible for MIS-C.

Bahar and her team created a computer model of the interaction between the SARS-CoV-2 viral spike protein and the receptors on human T cells, the foot soldiers of the immune system. Under normal circumstances, T cells help the body fight off infection, but when these cells are activated in abnormally large quantities, as is the case with superantigens, they produce massive amounts of inflammatory cytokines-small proteins involved in immune system signaling--in what's known as a "cytokine storm."

Using this computer model, the team was able to see that a specific region on the spike protein with superantigenic features interacts with T cells. Then, they compared this region to a bacterial protein that causes toxic shock syndrome and found striking similarities in both sequence and structure. Importantly, the proposed SARS-CoV-2 superantigen showed a high affinity for binding T cell receptors-the first step toward touching off a runaway immune response.

"Everything came one after another, each time a huge surprise. The pieces of the puzzle ended up fitting extremely well," said Bahar, co-senior author on the study.

By finding protein-level similarities between SARS-CoV-2 and the bacterial structure that causes toxic shock syndrome, the researchers said they may have opened up new avenues for treating not only MIS-C patients, but also adults with COVID-19 infection experiencing cytokine storm.

The researchers also collaborated with scientists studying adult COVID-19 patients in Germany and found that those who experienced severe symptoms had a T cell response similar to what is seen in people exposed to superantigens and very different from the T cell response in patients who had only mild symptoms.

"Our research finally begins to unravel the potential mechanisms involved and raises the possibility that therapeutic options for toxic shock syndrome, such as intravenous immunoglobulin and steroids, may be effective for managing and treating MIS-C in children and hyperinflammation in adult coronavirus patients," said Arditi, professor of pediatrics and biomedical sciences at Cedars-Sinai.

Arditi's and Bahar's labs are now using the ideas generated by this study to search for and test antibodies specific to the SARS-CoV-2 superantigen, with the goal of developing therapies that specifically address MIS-C and cytokine storm in COVID-19 patients.

###

This study was supported by the National Institutes of Health (grants P41 GM103712 and R01 AI072726), as well as institutional funds.

Additional authors include first author Mary Hongying Cheng, Ph.D., and She Zhang, Ph.D., both at Pitt; Rebecca Porritt, Ph.D., and Magali Noval Rivas, Ph.D., at Cedars-Sinai; and Lisa Paschold, Ph.D., Edith Willscher, M.Sc., and Mascha Binder, M.D., at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg.
Chennai:

Nearly a week after the oil spill due to collision of two ships off Chennaias coast, hundreds of volunteers have removed about 60 tonnes of sludge in a massive clean-up effort.

The strong winds and waves have caused the oil spill to spread as it has crossed the Marina Beach and is moving to other beaches in Chennai.

After the collision between two ships took place near Chennai's Kamarajar Port, more than 20 tonnes of thick oil spilled into the Bay of Bengal, affecting the marine life and a 30-km stretch of shoreline.

The Coast Guard said: "It is estimated that more than 20 tonnes of oil has spilt from MT Dawn Kanchipuram as against the initial report of two-three tonnes."

Hundreds of volunteers including students from engineering colleges and fishermen are involved in clearing the thick sludge that machines have failed to remove. Oil spill dispersants and neutralisers are being sprayed by Coast guard ships and choppers.On Thursday, the Coast Guard said tremendous progress had been made and no major oil patches were seen seawards.



The clean up work on a war-footing was carried out in several areas, including the Ennore shoreline, Marina and Elliots beaches by multiple agencies including Coast Guard along with the help of volunteers and local people.

Tiruvallur (TN): Coast Guard trainees removing oil sludge collected at Ennore coast manually #ChennaiOilSpill pic.twitter.com/Z4ndHOSaZ4 a ANI (@ANI_news) February 3, 2017

aApproximately 1,100 personnel braving the hot sun came forward and assisted in removal of approximately 21 tonnes of oil with sludge and about 17 tonnes of sand mixed with sludge, sand mixed with oil and oil mixed with water,a a Coast Guard release said.

aAt present, no significant oil patches are observed seawards from Ennore to Mahabalipuram. Only sheen of oil can be seen at some places which is likely to clear off in one or two days. Tremendous progress has been made towards sludge removal,a it said.

Apart from Coast Guard, personnel from Tamil Nadu Police Coastal Security Group, pollution control board, fire and rescue department, state Highways, port trust, corporation, panchayat besides volunteers from various colleges, universities and NGOs joined the operation.



The mishap had occurred when M T BW Maple, with a flag of Isle of Man, was leaving after emptying Liquefied Petroleum Gas and M T Dawn, Kanchipuram, loaded with petroleum oil lubricant (POL), was on its way to berth at the suburban port, formerly Ennore port.



(With inputs from PTI)

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URBAN LEAGUE LEADERS: GRAND JURY DECISION IS AN AFFRONT TO BREONNA TAYLORS MEMORY

Marc H. Morial, President and CEO of the National Urban League, and Sadiqa N. Reynolds, Esq., President & CEO of the Louisville Urban League, issued the following joint statement in response to a grand jurys failure to seek justice for the fatal shooting of Breonna Taylor.

Perversion of justice is too feeble a term to describe the grand jurys decision not to file a single criminal charge related to Breonnas death. It is an affront to Breonnas memory, and to the millions of Americans who have stood in solidarity with Breonnas family and marched in the streets in her name.

The barrage of gunfire that endangered Breonnas neighbors is the very same gunfire that took Breonnas life. It is incomprehensible to suggest that the risk of injuring neighbors is a crime but the actual killing of an innocent young woman is not.

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Breonnas family has waited six months for justice, only to be slapped in the face by the grand jurys indifference. Where is the swift hand of the law that took only hours to charge Kenneth Walker with attempted murder for a single gunshot, fired in fear for his and Breonnas lives? Where do the Black victims of police misconduct go to find that kind of justice?

We are a community in despair but we do not seek revenge, as Attorney General Daniel Cameron so offensively suggested. We seek healing. We seek change. We ask our brothers and sisters to demonstrate with us peacefully in Breonnas name, and we plead with city authorities and police to allow us space to express our grief without provocation.
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The maiden public offer of UTI Asset Management Company has so far received a tepid response from investors. Experts feel the hefty demand for Mazagon Dock due to attractive valuations could be the reason behind it.

The public issue has been subscribed 2.3 times on October 1, the last day of bidding, as the IPO has received bids for 6.31 crore equity shares against offer size of 2.73 crore equity shares, the data available on the exchanges showed.

The offer size mentioned above was after the exclusion of the anchor portion. The company raised Rs 644.64 crore from several anchor investors.

The portion set aside for retail investors was subscribed 2.32 times and that for employees was subscribed 1.34 times. The company has reserved 2 lakh equity shares for employees.

UTI AMC IPO to open on September 29: Here are 10 key things to know

The reserved portion of qualified institutional buyers has seen 3.3 times subscription and that of non-institutional investors 92 percent.

Incorporated in 2002, UTI Asset Management Company is in the business of managing the domestic mutual funds of UTI Mutual Fund. It also provides portfolio management services (PMS) to institutional clients and high net worth individuals (HNIs), and manage retirement funds, offshore funds and alternative investment funds.

UTI AMC is the second-largest asset management company in India in terms of total AUM and the eighth largest asset management company in India in terms of mutual fund QAAUM as of June 2020.

The public issue consists of an offer for sale of 3,89,87,081 equity shares by State Bank of India, PNB, LIC, Bank of Baroda and T Rowe Price International. Hence the company will not receive any funds from IPO.

The price band for the issue has been fixed at Rs 552-554 per share.

"The company is well-positioned to capitalise on favorable industry dynamics, including the under-penetration of mutual fund products. At the upper price band of Rs 554, the stock trades at 25.7x its FY20 EPS of Rs 21.53. We recommend to subscribe the issue from a long-term perspective," Asit C Mehta said.

It managed 153 domestic mutual fund schemes, comprising equity, hybrid, income, liquid and money market funds as of June 2020. UTI AMCs total QAAUM for domestic mutual funds was Rs 1,33,630 crore, while the other AUM was Rs 8,49,390 crore.

With 1.09 crore live folios as of March 2020, its client base accounts for 12.2 percent of the approximately 8.97 crore folios that, according to CRISIL, are managed by the Indian mutual fund industry.
HALIFAX - Three Mi'kmaq parliamentarians say Ottawa should create a co-managed Indigenous fishery off Nova Scotia as a long-term solution to conflicts between First Nations and non-Indigenous fishers in the lobster harvest.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 1/10/2020 (478 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Members of the Sipekne'katik First Nation prepare to go fishing in Saulnierville, N.S., as it launches its own self-regulated fishery on Thursday, Sept. 17, 2020. A trio of Mi'kmaq Parliamentarians says Ottawa should create a co-managed Indigenous fishery off Nova Scotia as a long-term solution to tense conflicts between First Nations and non-Indigenous fishers in the lobster harvest. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Andrew Vaughan

HALIFAX - Three Mi'kmaq parliamentarians say Ottawa should create a co-managed Indigenous fishery off Nova Scotia as a long-term solution to conflicts between First Nations and non-Indigenous fishers in the lobster harvest.

The proposal comes from Sen. Dan Christmas, a former chief of the Membertou First Nation in Cape Breton, Sen. Brian Francis, of Abegweit First Nation in Prince Edward Island and Jaime Battiste, a Liberal MP from Nova Scotia.

Christmas said in an interview this week the trio held discussions last Friday with Fisheries Minister Bernadette Jordan and Indigenous Relations Minister Carolyn Bennett to push their proposal.

The effort comes amid the launches of multiple Mi'kmaq lobster fisheries, each tied to the 1999 Supreme Court of Canada decision stating Donald Marshall Jr. had a treaty right to fish for eels when and where he wanted, without a licence.

The Marshall decision said the Mi'kmaq, Maliseet and Passamaquoddy bands could hunt, fish and gather to earn a "moderate livelihood,'' though the court followed up with a clarification two months later, saying the treaty right was subject to federal regulation for conservation purposes.

The Sipekne'katik First Nation opened their lobster fishery in St. Marys Bay last month, provoking criticisms from non-Indigenous fishers who argue fishing outside of the normal season violates federal rules  and the second part of the Marshall decision.

The Sipekne'katik fleet includes 10 boats with 50 traps each, which is equivalent to the catch of about two of the roughly 944 commercial lobster licences granted to non-Indigenous harvesters in the area.

Meanwhile, Mi'kmaq lobster harvesters from the Potlotek First Nation in Cape Breton were planning on taking to the water in St. Peters Bay on Thursday under their own fishing plan, outside of the regular commercial season.

Christmas said the Mi'kmaq leadership is largely dissatisfied with the current federal Fisheries Department method of seeking individual deals with bands.

"The current path isn't working after 21 years of waiting for action and the last three years of negotiations," the senator said.

The Mi'kmaq leaders point to the successful implementation of a co-managed education system in the province adopted by 12 of 13 of the Mi'kmaq First Nations as a model.

"We've governed our own education system for 25 years, and we think developing a similar model for the fishery would have equal success," Christmas said. He also argues that talks on the fishery issue should shift from the federal Fisheries Department to Indigenous Relations, under Bennett's leadership.

Meanwhile, Battiste's office posted a letter signed by the three Mi'kmaq parliamentarians saying they favour an "Atlantic First Nations Fisheries Authority" to oversee their moderate livelihood fishery.

Neither minister was available for comment on the proposal.

However, a spokesman for a group of commercial, non-Indigenous fishers in western Nova Scotia says Mi'kmaq leaders need to recognize the Marshall decision clearly refers to the federal Fisheries Department as the regulator of the resource.

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.

Colin Sproul, president of the Bay of Fundy Inshore Fishermen's Association, said the Supreme Court was unambiguous, citing it from memory.

The November 1999 clarification by the court said: "The paramount regulatory objective is conservation, and the responsibility for it is placed squarely on the minister responsible and not on the Aboriginal or non-Aboriginal users of the resource."

Sproul said he is calling, "for two-way respect for the decision."

Still, Christmas said he remains convinced the creation of a co-managed Mi'kmaq fishery, where Indigenous communities have oversight of a moderate livelihood fishery, will eventually be seen as the wisest way forward.

"If we try a different approach, a different model we'd be able to solve these problems and get some certainty on the water," he said.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 1, 2020.
By PTI

LAHORE: An Indian national has been arrested for allegedly crossing the border without travel documents in Sialkot district of Pakistan's Punjab province, police said on Thursday.

The man, identified as Hareender Singh, was arrested on Wednesday for "illegally entering into Pakistan by crossing the Working Boundary through the border village of Kundanpur in Sucheetgarh Sector of Sialkot," some 130kms from Lahore, police said.

No travel documents were recovered from Singh, who is said to be a resident of Gurdaspur, according to police.

The Sialkot police registered a case against him.

He has been shifted to an undisclosed location for interrogation.

As many as nineteen Indian nationals are languishing in jail in different parts of Pakistan for "illegal border crossing", according to an official of the federal government.
Theo Paphitis has revealed he lost his mother to Covid-19, while his father survived the virus after a stint in intensive care.

The British Greek-Cypriot businessman, 61, made famous by his appearances on the panel of Dragons' Den, also laid bare the devastating impact the pandemic has had on his high street stores.

In a conversation with Kathleen Saxton for Advertising Week 2020, Mr Paphitis - who is worth 290million according to the 2020 Sunday Times Rich List, admitted many of his central London branches of Ryman and Robert Dyas are 'haemorrhaging cash', adding: 'Our stores that took 100,000 a week, are taking 10,000.'

The retail tycoon and entrepreneur, who is married to Debbie Stocker and has five children, said the pandemic has been 'incredibly testing' for him and his family, however they were 'very fortunate' they had a large house with plenty of outdoor space when the country went into lockdown in March.

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Dragon's Den star Theo Paphitis has revealed he lost his mother to Covid-19 while his father battled the virus in intensive care

'We weren't generally touched by Covid, apart from one pretty well serious incident where we lost my mother, and my father ended up in intensive care,' he explained.

'He's recovered; sadly my mother had underlying health issues that tipped her over the edge.

So it was a stressful time, not being able to go to funerals, not being able to do the normal things that we all do at times like that when we need to grieve.

'But as a family unit here in sunny Surrey, we coped, and just like everybody else we're trying desperately to live our lives as normal as possible.'

Mr Paphitis' family hail from Cyprus, where his father and grandfather worked on British bases. They were granted British passports when the UK government granted the country independence.

Mr Paphitis told how his mother, who had underlying health conditions, succumbed to the virus while his father has now recovered. Pictured as a young boy with his parents and brother in Venice on his family's first journey to England

He previously told The Daily Telegraph: 'My family were poor and the only asset they had was that British passport. My father bought a two-up two-down for 880 in Gorton, Manchester, when I was about seven.

'We then moved to London but my parents split up, so my mother raised my brother and me. We lived in a council flat. My mum didnt have any spare cash so there was never any pocket money.'

Mr Paphitis, whose retail group also encompasses lingerie brand Boux Avenue and the London Graphic Centre, also spoke candidly about the impact of coronavirus on him professionally, in particular the challenges he faces as an employer complying with government advice.

The British Greek-Cypriot businessman, 61, also laid bare the devastating impact the pandemic has had on his high street stores. Mr Paphitis admitted many of his central London branches of Ryman and Robert Dyas are 'haemorrhaging cash'. Pictured opening his Kings Road branch of Ryman in Chelsea in November 2018

'We're trying to say to people, please come back to the office, but you're going to have to sit on the Tube, next to somebody who's coughing and spluttering irrespective of mask,' he said.

'And when you've got a family, it's very, very difficult to tell people exactly what they should be doing so. Lots of the decision making, has to be left to the individuals.'

Mr Paphitis also shared his perspectives on the lasting effects the pandemic will have on the retail sector, support provided by the government, and the challenges presented by having so many stores in central London.

Covid-19 continues to wreak havoc on the High Street, with 195,331 job losses now announced by major British employers since the start of lockdown in March.

During his conversation with Kathleen Saxton for Advertising Week 2020 (pictured), Mr Paphitis said he believes Chancellor Rishi Sunak's decision to suspend business rates for a year has made 'a massive difference', but insisted it's 'nowhere near enough when you've also got central London rents'

Though his businesses have done 'pretty well online' during lockdown, with large growth as people adapted their shopping habits, the impact on his business empire was felt in stores.

Speaking about the loss of revenue at his branches, he said: 'You would ask yourself why you even open, but we're trying to do our best to keep our colleagues engaged.

'We can't keep all of them engaged, sadly, because there isn't a demand to keep those doors open.

'The longer this goes on goes for, it's going to get very, very tough. The reality is there cannot be normality without a vaccine.'

While he believes Chancellor Rishi Sunak's decision to suspend business rates for a year has made 'a massive difference', he insisted it's 'nowhere near enough when you've also got central London rents'.

Mr Paphitis, pictured in August, said he believes working habits will change forever as a result of the pandemic

'Our stores that remain open will be where the landlord is working with us in the short term to allow our doors to be open,' he explained.

'Those landlords who are being absolutely knuckleheads will find that we'll be shutting those doors, because they will not be viable.'

He added that a lot of cash spent by the government to reduce the impact of the pandemic on the economy has 'probably been wasted'.

'[The government] was very slow in getting business loans and credit insurance [sorted], those sort of things that really make a difference, but they are working on it,' Mr Paphitis said, adding that he would 'hate to be in their position'.

'They're working towards a more direct understanding of the areas of the economy that need further assistance. They mustn't blink now. If they do, they would have absolutely lost all the benefits they've spent a fortune trying to protect.'

Mr Paphitis said he believes working habits will change forever as a result of the pandemic.

Speaking about the loss of revenue at his High Street stores, Mr Paphitis said: 'You would ask yourself why you even open, but we're trying to do our best to keep our colleagues engaged'

'Everybody is going to change, and it's going to change everybody very differently. It's not going to be consistent,' he said.

'The minute this went on for more than a couple of weeks, you could see the writing quite clearly on the wall. People are looking at different ways of leading their lives.

'Maybe that's a better balance of life by working, partly from home, which was a little bit of a taboo subject in the workplace.

'It was always felt that you [need] to be there first thing in the morning [and] you will be last to leave to show that you care and had passion for the business. That's not so true these days. It used to be black and white 50 years ago, but now it's not.

'It's about output. It's about delivery. It's about performance. It's about focus Lots of people are now saying, "Life balance is an important factor for me. My two-bedroom flat in Putney? I can sell that, and I can buy a five-bedroom house in a wonderful village an hour and a half away from London. I can have my children go to a really good school. And I promise you [my employer] the delivery and the performance and the commitment. I'll pop in once a week or twice a week." We are going to find a lot more of that.'
Fashion giant River Island has been blasted by parents for selling 'sexy' tight leather trousers for children as young as five.

The retailer was accused of 'sexualising children' after the range of black leatherette trousers was spotted on display in the kid's section of the store and online.

Angry mums have deemed the clothing 'highly inappropriate' and accused River Island of 'stripping the innocence away from kids.'

Some have now demanded River Island pull them from stock after one grandmother brought the matter to light while shopping with her daughter in Worcester.

Helen Richards, 60, had been browsing the aisles for an outfit for her nine-year-old granddaughter on Tuesday when she noticed the trousers on display.

A pair of leather-look trousers available for children ages five to 12 on the River Island website

Ms Richards, of Worcester, said: 'Why are they sexualising children? Why do they feel the need to put leather trousers for parents to buy for their child?

'It's so wrong, especially in this day and age. We shouldn't encourage our children to dress like that.

'There's more than one way to take away a child's innocence. I am so angry.'

The gran-of-seven said the 12.99 leatherette trousers were available to buy from aged five to age 12.

A pair of trousers from the range in question, purchased at River Island for 18, sized five-years

The trousers were seen by some parents to be 'tasteless' while others said that parents shouldn't assume everything is 'sexually motivated'

Ms Richards, who was shopping with her 33-year-old daughter Alison, added: 'It was the first time I have been shopping in months.

'I was shopping with my daughter who was looking for an outfit for her daughter.

'She pointed at these trousers, and I was so shocked. I am usually the one who mentions this sort of thing.'

Ms Richards said she was particularly concerned because of recent fears about a kidnap gang approaching children in Worcester.

She said: 'I thought I am not going to be one of those people who ignore it, especially with so much going on in Worcester at the moment.

Helen Richards, 60, had been browsing the aisles for her nine-year-old granddaughter when she spotted the trousers in Worcester (Ford Shopping Centre, Birmingham pictured)

'That sort of thing makes me think speak out. There are other options of clothes for children to wear.

'I was tempted to say something to the staff but it's not their fault.

'I think River Island should remove the clothing from their store immediately. I'm also worried the clothes might attract unwanted attention.

'Young people can't deal with that and it can take away their childhood.'

Other mums and dads flocked to social media with some urging parents to boycott the store.

Another pair of leather-look trousers available from River Island for children aged five to 12

Sally Wright wrote on Facebook: 'Who would want their children walking around like Kim Kardashian in leather pants? We should boycott the place until they are removed.'

Carlie Brown added: 'This is highly inappropriate and another example of our kids innocence being stripped away. Shame on River Island.'

Terri Hopcroft put: 'I'm all for children's fashion but please let kids be kids. Wouldn't dream of letting my two-year-old daughter run around in tight fitting trousers.'

Ally Moore said: 'Personally, I like to see children dressed like children. Pvc leggings on a little girl... a bit much.'

Others leapt to the defence of the store with Nicola Long saying: 'What's worrying is how adults are pushing their idea on everything being sexually motivation.

'It's a pair of trousers, how you see them says more about you.'

Jade Charlotte commented: 'No need to get angry, just don't buy them. If everyone thinks they're tasteless and doesnt buy them, then they'll stop making them.

'I dont particularly like them as I dont think it's a good look for most adults either. But I can't make that decision for other people!

'Basically, worry about what your own children are wearing, not other people's.'
FORT EDWARD  A Clifton Park woman was arrested on Thursday for allegedly driving drunk and causing a fatal crash that killed two Washington County residents in August.

Lindsey Godfrey, 29, of 5 Timber Terrace, was arraigned in Fort Edward Town Court on several charges, including the top count of aggravated vehicular homicide, as well as driving while intoxicated-first offense and driving while ability impaired by the combined influence of drugs and alcohol.

Authorities say that on Aug. 8, Godfrey drove recklessly and while intoxicated traveling east on state Route 313 in Jackson in her 2017 Subaru. She collided with a 2019 Subaru traveling west. The driver, 43-year-old Richard Chadwick, and his mother-in-law, 77-year-old Alice Hahn, died in the crash. A third occupant, Chadwicks wife, Jill Chadwick, was injured and is recovering.

Godfrey had had a blood alcohol concentration of 0.124% and there was marijuana in her system, according to a news release. She also allegedly was using her mobile phone, driving at an unsafe speed.

Washington County District Attorney Tony Jordan said the top count of the indictment alleges that Godfrey drove recklessly, under the influence of drugs and alcohol, and caused the death of a person. It carries a sentence of up to 25 years in prison.

Jordan said investigators were waiting on toxicology results before deciding on the exact charges.

Godfrey uses a wheelchair and has her right foot in a boot because of injuries suffered in the crash. She also recently had surgery on her clavicle.

She was crying throughout the hearing, speaking weakly only to confirm her address. Fort Edward Town Justice Joseph Malvuccio released Godfrey on her own recognizance. She is currently living with her mother and stepfather. Her drivers license has been suspended.

Her attorney, Matt Chauvin, said his client was working in New York City after graduation but moved back with her parents in May when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. She was working as a bank teller.

Godfrey is due back in court on Oct. 29 at 1:30 p.m.

The case is being presented to a grand jury, according to Jordan, and Chauvin said his client may testify.

Jordan said after the court hearing that the allegations in this case show that the message of not drinking and driving or texting and driving still has not reached everyone.

The choices that people make, the consequences that follow really have a devastating impact on so many people, he said. You see three families whose lives have been irrevocably changed.

Jordan said investigators believe that Godfrey may have been headed to the Batten Kill because there were some life rafts and tubing equipment in her vehicle.

The Chadwicks and Hahn had been celebrating Jill Chadwicks birthday and were headed back from a trip to Vermont, according to Jordan.

He said the loss has been deeply felt in the Cambridge community.

Richard DJ Chadwick was a graduate of Hartford Central School and worked as a special education teacher at Hoosic Valley Central School for 18 years.

Hahn worked at what was then Mary McClellan Hospital in Cambridge for more than 20 years, serving as the director of environmental services.

Jill Chadwick is a music teacher at Cambridge Central School.

The outpouring of support and concern in the Cambridge community and Hoosic Valley community  traditional rivals in the sports world  has been incredible, Jordan said.

Chauvin said Godfrey was in Washington County that day to visit a friend. He said she does not have a lot of recollection of the moments leading up to the crash.

Chauvin said that his client is horrified about this accident. His client has never been in trouble with the law, he said.

My client is not someone who has a malicious bone in her body. The fact shes in any way a part of the pain that these other families are going through is something shes struggling with every day, he said. Its not an easy thing for her. Obviously, it pales in comparison to what those two families are going through having lost two loved ones.

Reach Michael Goot at 518-742-3320 or mgoot@poststar.com and follow his blog poststar.com/blogs/michael_goot/.

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Uttarakhand chief minister Trivendra Singh Rawat on Thursday announced the creation of a new tourism zone in Corbett Tiger Reserve, which will be known as Garjiya Tourism Zone and will be soon opened for visitors.

Rawat made this announcement after inaugurating an interpretation centre, Kumaoni canteen and a souvenir shop at Dhangadi Corbett Tiger Reserve on Thursday. Thirty SUVs in the mornings and 30 in the evenings will be allowed to carry tourists in the new zone, which is likely to become functional in November. With the new zone, CTR will soon have eight tourism zones.

Rawat said Corbett tiger reserve is the identity of Uttarakhand. Because of Corbett, Uttarakhand is recognized in India and world over. CTR is famous for its tigers, wildlife, greenery and its biodiversity. Now, this interpretation centre will further increase awareness about different aspects of Corbett, be its history or biodiversity, he said.

Rawat also announced that villages including Chopda, Leti, and Rampur will be made revenue villages

Rahul (who goes by his first name), director CTR said they had sent a proposal to chief wildlife warden for developing a new tourist zone in CTR. The proposal has been approved by chief wildlife warden, paving way for the setting up of the new tourist zone, he said.

This tourist zone has been developed by combining the forest areas of Bijrani range, Ringora Chaur, Aamdanda beat, Garjiya beat, Bijrani range and Sarpduli range, he said.

Rahul said big grassland, streams and scenic beauty are the main attractions of this zone. 60 Gypsy SUVs will ferry tourists in the mornings and in the evenings. At present the gate of this zone has not been constructed yet. Till a separate gate for Garjiya tourism zone is built, tourists will go for safari from the Bijrani zone gate, said Rahul.

He said the zone will help in reducing the pressure of tourists on the other zones of CTR. It will also help in increasing the revenue, he added.

Currently CTR has Bijrani, Dhikala, Dhela Durga Devi, Jhirna, Pakhro and Sonanadhi zones for tourism activities. But with the arrival of thousands of tourists every year, there is a lot of pressure on these zones. With the opening of this new Garjiya Tourist Zone, tourists will get to see a new place in CTR and the pressure on other zones will be comparatively reduced, Rahul said.

Earlier in the day, Rawat inaugurated around 62 development works worth 119 crore in Haldwani. He also inaugurated BPPI (Bureau of pharma PSUs of India) Jan Aushadhi Kendra. Congress workers staged a protest against the CM and showed black flags to him.

Protesters under the leadership of Hemant Sahu, Congress Nainital district unit secretary and Gurpreet Singh Prince, city president of youth Congress were stopped by police. Nearly 50 Congress workers were detained by police and later released.
Naj Austin, founder and CEO of subscription-based physical and digital community Ethel's Club, is building Somewhere Good to be a one-stop shop for people of color. Beyond being a place for people of color to connect, it's also about creating a safe space for folks to be their authentic selves.

"A lot of how we're talking about Somewhere Good with investors is this idea of a new online world where our identities are centered," Austin told me. "The vision for Somewhere Good is you take your phone out of your pocket and, as a Black person or person of color, all of your needs are met there in that one place."

That means folks could access communities around things like wellness, art, music and film, and engage in commerce through those groups. It's not that some of these communities don't already exist, it's just that they're fragmented across the web and not always easy to find.

Through operating wellness community Ethel's Club, Austin said many members keep asking her if she knows of other types of spaces for Black people and people of color that focus on more granular topics, like jazz music from the 80s or an online space specifically for Black women who don't want children.

"We've had so many of those," Austin said. "We just need to create a platform where they can do it themselves. It goes back to my core belief of building a company that provides space for people of color. My whole thing is, are we providing more space, are more people of color feeling empowered. As long as that's a yes, it doesn't matter the vehicle."

[gallery ids="2054998,2054999,2055000,2055001,2055010,2055011"]

When Somewhere Good launches in beta in January, Austin said users will be able to input their general info and then choose a selection of interests. For example, someone could identify themselves as a mother who likes painting, has a dog and works as a baker.

Story continues

"We would then spit out communities we think are the best fit for you," Austin said.

That will enable Somewhere Good to foster an additional level of connection for users, Austin said. One way of achieving that extra layer will be through a matchmaking tool.

"We're trying to give people a more tangible reason for connection," Austin said. "Other than you're both Black."

Ethel's Club, the wellness platform for people of color that currently lives on Mighty Networks, will be just one of many communities on Somewhere Good. The plan is to bring on a number of other communities to the platform that center Black people and people of color. From there, Austin envisions users of those communities may then create communities of their own on Somewhere Good.

"We want to give space to people who are already creating community, allow people who want community to build it and then for the audience, once they're feeling empowered, to be able to build community," she said.

When you go to Somewhere Good right now, you'll engage in a Stumble Upon-esque experience where you click "Take me somewhere new" to see a brand geared toward Black people or people of color. There are a little over 100 brands currently featured on the site, including Black hair brand Nappy Head Club, Black designer directory Black Fashion Fair and cereal and culture brand OffLimits.

Image Credits: OffLimits

While OffLimits, for example, doesn't currently have a community, the brand centers around thinking about food differently, Austin said. But OffLimits, which tells its story through "emotionally unstable, counterculture cartoon characters," could run a community on Somewhere Good centered around product design or food. She also envisions makeup brand Fenty running a community centered around skin care.

Each community on Somewhere Good will have a moderator and all members will need to follow Somewhere Good's code of conduct. The platform will not allow any hate speech, abusive behavior, bullying or other types of violence.

"Any users acting against our code of conduct will be immediately removed from the Somewhere Good platform," the platform's mission statement says.

Somewhere Good will be a 100% ad-free environment and says it will never sell data. Its business model relies on users paying to join communities and then taking a percentage of that transaction.

"That means we have to create a compelling opportunity for people to create communities," she said.

Down the road, Somewhere Good plans to enable communities to charge for live-streamed events, sell products and enable other types of peer-to-peer transactions. The company would then take a percentage from those transactions, as well.

Somewhere Good soft-launched with a tweet last week and began taking signups. Already, there are more than 2,500 people on the wait list.

It's a similar strategy Austin said she had with Ethel's Club. With Ethel's Club, she didn't quite know the functionality of the product before launching but went ahead and started talking about it to see if there was interest. Once Austin saw there was interest, Ethel's Club embraced the community to help the company build products they wanted. That's the same framework she's now using for Somewhere Good, she said.

Ethel's Club, which got its start as a physical community space in Brooklyn before expanding into the digital realm as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, has currently raised a little over $1 million from Dream Machine, Shrug Capital, Canvas Ventures, Color, Debut Capital and angel investors like Katie Stanton, Roxane Gay and Hannibal Buress.

Since transitioning into digital, Ethel's Club has grown to more than 1,500 members. But the biggest issue is that people just want more, Austin said. And Somewhere Good aims to be just that, she said. It aims to be the one platform where people of color can go to for everything.
Utterly predictably, the Commission on Presidential Debates, along with the grandees of the (progressive) mainstream media, has come to precisely the wrong conclusion on changes to the form of presidential debates, in the wake of Chris Wallace's inept moderation of the first of three presidential debates.

The Commission on Presidential Debates announced Wednesday that it would consider changes to the remaining debates, citing the need for "structure" after Tuesday night's often chaotic affair was marked by repeated interruptions. "Last night's debate made clear that additional structure should be added to the format of the remaining debates to ensure a more orderly discussion of the issues," the commission said in a statement.

This view presumes that voters would be better served if each candidate had precisely equal, uninterrupted time to make oral presentations to the American people, basically reading aloud the sort of talking points that could just as well be communicated in print. It's the logic of bureaucrats and schoolteachers, prioritizing order above spontaneity and form above content.

The entire point of presidential debates is to help voters make up their minds about whom to support. A no-holds-barred debate, with the moderator's role minimal, would far better help acquaint voters with the substance and character of each candidate. If one of them interrupts the other, so what? That tells people a lot about the character of each. Is one of them a bully and the other a doormat? That's worth knowing in a world where powerful leaders of other nations are tough guys, unconstrained by notions of decorum and process unless they want to be seen a certain way.

The hard fact is that the leader of the United States faces a state of nature in the global power struggle, a world in which Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, and lesser despots, not to mention democratic allies, will try to get away with as much as possible to benefit their nations, as long as they see it serving their interests. They will obey the norms of conduct only so long as it is to their advantage to do so. The same goes for Congress, in essence, prettied up by rhetoric, but a base struggle for power at its core.

An open-format presidential debate would give voters a better sense of the candidates than a tightly organized and intrusively moderated one. Moderators inevitably let their biases and preconceptions influence their conduct, and since the media are 90%+ progressives, denizens of an industry and social system deeply leftist, the less the role of a moderator, the better.

I'd favor 90 minutes with an introduction and a 30-second conclusion, following a loud buzzer. But I'd settle for 15-minute segments theoretically organized around a theme question, but completely open format after that. If it degenerates into a shouting match, that's not a tragedy, it's an exercise in character revelation.

Why give the power to control things to people like this?



YouTube screen grab.

Or this?



Candy Crowley. (Photo credit: Mark Knight and Jordan Miller, licensed under the terms of the GNU Free Documentation License, Version 1.2.
Facebook Chairman and CEO Mark Zuckerberg greets members of congress after testifying at a House Financial Services Committee hearing in Washington, October 23, 2019. REUTERS/Erin Scott

Facebook has announced it's banning any ads in support of the far-right group QAnon and any militarized social movements.

Wednesday's move is Facebook's latest effort to crack down on misinformation and extremism on its platform ahead of the Nov. 3 election. Earlier in the day, the company also announced that it would ban ads that tried to delegitimize the results of the election.

In August, Facebook removed hundreds of groups, pages and ads tied to QAnon, plus unfounded conspiracy theory alleging that President Donald Trump is secretly saving the world from a group of prominent satanic cannibals that run the world.

The company also announced Wednesday that members of Facebook groups associated with QAnon will see content from those groups further down in their News Feeds.

Additionally, the company said that because QAnon supporters increasingly use the issue of child safety and hashtags like #savethechildren to recruit more supporters, Facebook will now direct people to credible child safety resources.
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani's Chief of Staff, Mahmoud Vaezi, denied several reports on Wednesday, September 30, that Iran is assisting Armenia in its war with the neighboring Republic of Azerbaijan.

Vaezi dismissed the reports as "baseless rumors" aimed at disrupting Tehran-Baku relations.

In a phone call with Azerbaijan's Deputy Prime Minister Shahin Mustafayev today, Vaezi stressed that the "Republic of Azerbaijan has an important and special place in Iran's foreign policy."

Following the recent deadly conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia, Araz News, a website of the Azerbaijan National Resistance Organization (ANRO), an exiled separatist group of Iranian Azaris, published videos and photos on Monday of trucks allegedly carrying arms and equipment to Armenia.

Earlier, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Saeed Khatibzadeh, also rebuffed the allegations, saying the transit of conventional non-military items through Iran to the neighboring countries has always been underway.

"The mentioned trucks are crossing Iran simply within the same framework," Khatibzadeh said on Tuesday.

Iran monitors and controls the transportation and transit of commodities to other countries within the country's borders "and does not allow our country's soil to be used for the transfer of arms and ammunition whatsoever," Iranian local news outlets cited Khatibzadeh as saying.

Clashes broke out on the front line between Azerbaijan and Armenia in the volatile Nagorno-Karabakh region on Sunday. The mountainous region is internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan but controlled by Armenian forces.

Iran, which has traditionally taken a pro-Armenian approach in the Nagorno-Karabakh dispute, has been trying for years to persuade its two northern neighbors to end the conflict.

Vaezi voiced concern over the Azerbaijan-Armenia clashes, saying Iran closely monitors the developments, the state-run Mehr News Agency (MNA) reported today.
U.S. Sen. Gary Peters, D-Bloomfield Township, said he does not support expanding the Supreme Court if Republicans confirm Trump appointee Amy Coney Barrett.

Peters said the debate over whether to pack the court, an idea that has gained traction among some Democrats after the death of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg, is a distraction from whats really at stake. On a press call Thursday, Peters said Barrett could be part of a Supreme Court majority ruling that would end the Affordable Care Act.

If this nominee goes forward, she has already said that she believes that the Affordable Care Act cannot stand constitutional muster, and when that gets thrown out were going to be at an incredibly difficult situation, Peters said.

The Supreme Court is set to hear oral arguments a week after the Nov. 3 election for a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the ACA. Peters, a freshman senator up for reelection in 2020, said the future of the landmark health care reform law is an election issue.

I think folks are going to want to elect people who understand the importance of having the Affordable Care Act, Peters said.

Peters is one of two Democrats up for reelection in a state President Donald Trump won in 2016. He has a slight lead over Republican challenger John James, who has outfundraised Peters throughout the race while closing the polling gap over the last few months.

Peters said his Republican opponent has no plan whatsoever" to protect coverage for people with preexisting issues.

James has pledged to protect preexisting conditions through a market based, patient-centered approach. James recently opposed the lawsuit challenging the ACA after not taking a position on the issue for much of the Senate race.

Ive said and will continue to say that I do not believe you should pull the rug out from under people, and I dont support this move without a plan in place, James said in an interview with WZZM 13.

James supported repealing and replacing the ACA when he first ran for Senate in 2018. The Farmington Hills businessman since said he supports improving aspects of Obamacare while removing parts that reduce choice and drive up costs.

Peters plans to vote against confirming Barrett. The senator said Michigan voters are already casting ballots and deserve a say in the process based on the result of presidential and Senate elections.

Organizers with Trumps campaign in Michigan have held several rallies outside Peters' offices across the state this week, pushing him to confirm Barrett. The campaign held rallies outside his offices in Lansing, Rochester Hills and Grand Rapids.

Republicans argue Trump has a constitutional obligation to select a nominee. Democrats say the GOP-led Senate did not allow former President Barack Obama to use that same authority when it refused to hold a vote on Merrick Garland.

The Republican National Committee launched a $10 million digital ad campaign to pressure Democratic senators over the Supreme Court nomination.

I was really disappointed, but I wont say surprised that Gary Peters took all of about five minutes to say that he would vote no on this selection, said Michigan Republican Party Chair Laura Cox. Its just another example of him being very partisan, making things political fighting with his party, rather than giving a vastly qualified woman a vote on her record and her qualification.

Thursdays press call was organized by the Biden campaign. It was scheduled a day before Biden is set to campaign in Grand Rapids.

Peters touted the work he and Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden did to usher the ACA through Congress a decade ago. Peters was a member of the U.S. House at the time.

James supports filling the Supreme Court nomination before the 2020 election. A spokesperson said James would have followed the Constitutional process when Garland was nominated by Obama.

Peters was joined on the call by Michigan residents who are concerned about how losing health care coverage would impact their family.

Keith Van Houten, a Hartland resident, has a 21-year-old son who uses his employer-provided health insurance.

The ACA allowed young adults to remain on their parents' health insurance until they turned 26. Van Houten said his son, a college student living with muscular dystrophy, wouldnt be able to afford the $100,000 in annual expenses on his own.

In my situation, I cant just hope that things are going to be okay, Van Houten said. Hope is not a plan. For families like mine, the choice is obvious between Biden and Trump, and the choice is obvious between Gary Peters and John James.

READ MORE ON MLIVE:

Trump administration officials swarm Michigan ahead of 2020 election

Joe Biden to visit Grand Rapids Friday

Whitmer, Democratic governors denounce attacks on election integrity

Trump and Biden clash in worst presidential debate in history
The President of the Federated Commodity Association of Nigeria (FACAN), Victor Iyama, said his group will inform President Muhammadu Buhari of the grave legal and economic implications of wrongful implementation of the unfettered access to foreign exchange domiciliary account as contained in the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) circular of September 24, 2020.

This was disclosed at a press conference with journalists in Abuja on Wednesday.

Mr Iyama, while speaking at the conference, said that the CBN in its infinite wisdom needs to revise the obnoxious policy to encourage exportation of Nigerian farm produce across the globe in order to earn more foreign exchange.

According to him, you cannot be regulating exporters proceed why we are on deregulation, its not the way to repatriate people controlling funds.

The CBN should be made to understand the pains that exporters are going through, we are not ready for our money to continue depreciating,

But if its N100 to a dollar, we will sell, it is not justifiable as many people are sitting in their cosy environment building banks and others why the farmers are in pain, he said.

Farmers who are making losses can not encourage export until we have a stable price, what they expect us to do is reduce the price at the farm gate.

Thereby making the farmers to suffer and they expect us to increase production and subsidize import, thereby discouraging export its not possible.

The new policy by the CBN has actually prevented the foreign investors and Nigerians bringing in their funds into the country for investment, he said.

We are into business to make profit not to make losses and we operate within the laws of the country, it pays us to operate a stable foreign currency than operating a fluctuating one.

If you have borrowed 500million, we would have lost, although you can still loss money due to price fluctuation we cant be battling with that and be battling with currency policy, the excuses they always bring up is that the exporters are not bringing their money into Nigeria, and that is why we are saying, for those that did not repatriate their funds should be jailed for 5years and we will monitor the process.

We have to be fair if we really want to grow export, this will encourage capital flight, which will prevent the foreign exchange liquidity.

The way to reduce this is the limitation of unwanted goods, so that everyone can source for their dollar, and in that way you will preserve your foreign exchange and more people will be able to export and farmers will be able to produce more, he added.

He said letters have been written to the Central Bank of Nigeria on seeing how the situation can be checked, but no response up until now.

Exporters must have unfettered access to their money if we want exports to grow in the country.

We are willing to work with the government to monitor those that refuse to repatriate their funds back into the country.

We are here for the development of the countrys economy and farmers, adding that it is believed that the government is a listening government as this is about the survival of the country and its one of the major things that will change the face of our economy.

The banks cannot stop us but they are sanctioned by the CBN and off course the banks are happy because they are making more money as some of them are the beneficiaries. We still hope, he said.
The Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (AGB), the premier organization representing higher education governance, has officially opened registration for its three flagship events in 2021: the Foundation Leadership Forum, the Board Professionals Conference, and the National Conference on Trusteeship. Against a tumultuous backdrop of uncertainty and change, this critical time for higher education compels college, university, and foundation leaders to gather, hear from experts, and discuss best practices for addressing the future of the sector.

Given global health and safety concerns, institutional travel restrictions, and member financial challenges, serving members in this new environment calls for a reimagining of the typical conference setting. Taking advantage of new technology and expert advice, AGB will use a trusted virtual conference platform to create a truly interactive conference-type experience, with opportunities to learn, network, and share with colleagues in a digital setting. All three conferences will have robust communications tools and dedicated time to connect with peers, conference speakers, and AGB expert consultants and staff.

When the coronavirus struck the United States, AGB quickly pivoted to a remote national conference in April 2020. For this next year, we want to transform the online conference into something that rivals in-person experiences. In some ways, we think it can be better, said Robert Waters, AGB vice president for experiential programming and partnerships. These types of events, ones that dont require time or dollars for travel, mean that attendees who never could have participated before can do so now, digitally. Were looking forward to making the most of this opportunity to benefit our members.

The themes and many of the sessions at each conference will be dedicated to change and transformationa key topic for many AGB members as they address not only the coronavirus epidemic, but growing financial uncertainty, outdated business models, social justice initiatives, and new government regulations.



The Foundation Leadership Forum (Jan. 2527), celebrating its 25th year, is designed for the board members and senior leaders of institutionally related foundations to learn and share insights and best practice from experts and with peers. This years conference theme is Fast Forward: Accelerate Transformative Change. The opening plenary, titled The Future of Higher Education and What It Means for Foundations, will be moderated by Liz McMillen, executive editor, The Chronicle of Higher Education, and feature Brandon Busteed, president, Kaplan University Partners; Kent Fuchs, president, University of Florida; Patrick Methvin, director of postsecondary success in the United States program, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation; and Devona Williams, chair of the board of trustees and foundation board of trustees, Delaware State University.

The Board Professionals Conference (April 68), formerly the Workshop for Board Professionals, has been renamed to reflect a new, more comprehensive format that better aligns with the needs of todays board professionals. It is one of the only conferences of its kind to cater to those important individuals who staff boards of trustees. AGB, in conjunction with the Board Professionals Leadership Group, is building an event that includes important conversations about declining enrollments, increasing expenses, and other issues that boards will need support to address.

The National Conference on Trusteeship (April 1214) is the largest gathering of higher education board governance in the country. The theme of the conference is Breakthrough, and many of the sessions will focus on upending the status quo, driving transformations to forge something stronger and more resilient. Plenary session topics include racial equality on campus, using the board to support innovation, and addressing higher education business models. The National Conference will kick off AGBs celebration of its 100th anniversary.

Shauna Ryder Diggs, chair of the AGB Board of Directors and a regent of the University of Michigan, expects crucial conversations to take place at these events. I am encouraging my colleagues to attend one or more of these conferences. The coronavirus has accelerated disruption of higher education, and many board members, presidents, and other leaders are learning and adapting in real time. These conferences are a chance to discover creative solutions to problems were facingthe chance to share whats worked and what hasnt, and to chart the path forward with leading minds of higher education governance, she said.

Personally, I am excited for the opportunity to demonstrate AGBs innovation, said Henry Stoever, AGB president and CEO. I have heard from AGB members across the country who share my anticipation about this new format for our flagship events. We have been encouraging our members to rethink how they approach governance and leadershipand we are similarly rethinking how AGB serves its members. Our 2021 conferences will offer the very best programming and networking opportunities for higher education governing boards and executives while being more accessible and enabling more board members to attend due to the virtual aspect.

More information for members of the media who wish to attend one or more of these conferences will be available at AGB.org/Events.

About AGB

The Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (AGB) is the premier membership organization that strengthens higher education governing boards and the strategic roles they serve within their organizations. Through our vast library of resources, educational events, and consulting services, and with nearly 100 years of experience, we empower 40,000 AGB members from more than 2,000 institutions and foundations to navigate complex issues, implement leading practices, streamline operations, and govern with confidence. AGB is the trusted resource for board members, chief executives, and key administrators on higher education governance and leadership.
Actor Ansh Bagri, who was last seen in Dil Toh Happy Hai Ji, has tested positive for Covid-19. The actor is currently in Mumbai and away from his family.

Confirming his diagnosis, the actor told Times Of India, I fell ill around six days ago and immediately consulted my family doctor. He prescribed some medicines and also asked me to undergo the test for coronavirus. On Tuesday, I got the test result, which came in positive. I feel weak, and have mild fever and diarrhoea.

The actor further added that he has been in self-isolation since the day he became unwell. He said that he has been taking all precautions. And, that he is fortunate that he is in Mumbai, away from his mother and sister as he wont be passing the infection to them.

Meanwhile, earlier, the actor was in news after he was beaten up by a group of men outside his home in Delhi on July 25. The actor had filed a complaint at the Paschim Vihar police station.

Since the shootings have resumed many television actors have been infected with Covid-19. Among the actors, who recently tested positive for the infection are Shweta Tiwari, Rajeshwari Sachdev and Namish Taneja.

Read all the Latest News, Breaking News and Coronavirus News here
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 19:37:05|Editor: huaxia

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HANOI, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Vietnam reported a new case of COVID-19 infection on Thursday, bringing its total confirmed cases to 1,095 with 35 deaths from the disease so far, according to its Ministry of Health.

The new case is a 49-year-old Russian man who has recently entered Vietnam from Russia, said the ministry, noting that he was quarantined upon arrival.

As many as eight more patients have been given all-clear, raising the total cured cases in the country to 1,018 as of Thursday, said the ministry.

Meanwhile, nearly 15,500 people are being quarantined and monitored in the country, the ministry said.

Vietnam has gone through 29 straight days without any COVID-19 cases in the community, according to the ministry. Enditem
During the fifth season of The Real Housewives of Potomac, former friends Monique Samuels and Candiace Dillard came to blows. Even though Ashley Darbys bathroom break caused her to miss the fight, she seemingly immediately took Samuels side after returning. The mother-of-one explained why in a recent interview.

Monique Samuels, Ashley Boalch Darby, Candiace Dillard | Larry French

Monique Samuels and Candiace Dillard fell out during RHOP Season 4

When former Miss United States Candiace Dillard joined The Real Housewives of Potomac cast in season 3, she quickly became good friends with Not For Lazy Moms owner, Monique Samuels.

However, they fell out during the following season because Samuels befriended Ashley Darby, a Housewife who Dillard had issues with at the time. While Dillard perceived the budding friendship as a personal attack, Samuels claimed they began hanging out more because they both experienced the pain of having a miscarriage.

Candiace Dillard Bassett says she DONE with #RHOP as long as Monique is on the show and will not film another season with her. Who would you rather see back: Candiace or Monique? pic.twitter.com/AqDjZj6ZKW  Real Housewives Confessionals (@RHConfessionals) August 14, 2020

RELATED: Are RHOP Stars Monique Samuels and Candiace Dillard Friends After Their Emotional Moment at the Reunion?

Toward the end of season 4, Samuels showed Darby text messages between her and Dillard, an action the former Miss United States didnt appreciate. Even so, the ladies both claimed they wanted to repair their friendship at the reunion and hung out afterward.

However, their relationship went south again when Dillard invited OG Housewife Charrisse Jackson Jordan to her anniversary party.

Samuels and Dillard got into a physical altercation during RHOP Season 5

According to Samuels, her ex-friend and the former RHOP star spread rumors that she had an affair with her trainer, resulting in her pregnancy. Samuels claims that Karen Huger called her and warned her about the meeting and insisted Dillard knew about it.

Therefore, it upset Samuels that Dillard would invite Jordan, especially since the former Miss USA didnt give her a heads up. A few weeks later, the ladies hung out at Samuels lake house, where they got into an argument over a misunderstanding.

The #RHOP After Show is coming soon and the ladies are not holding back! Click here for more info: https://t.co/ue4gsOEUWD pic.twitter.com/AEpFaD4erk  Bravo (@BravoTV) September 26, 2020

RELATED: RHOP: Chris Samuels Responds to Rumors Questioning His Sons Paternity: Yall Are Dirty People

When they saw each other for the next time at the winery, the former friends started arguing again, but it turned physical when Samuels grabbed the former Miss USA by her hair.

Darby went to the bathroom and missed the fight but seemingly took Samuels side and believed Dillard likely egged the mother-of-three on. In an interview with the Daily Mail, the new mother explained why she quickly sided with Samuels over Dillard, despite not seeing the fight.

Ashley Darby on why she took Samuels side

The OG Housewife explained Samuels invariably had her back even though they didnt always see eye to eye. Therefore, Darby wants to reciprocate the loyalty Samuels showed her.

She then pointed out how Dillard was wrong, describing her as a woman who just doesnt necessarily know when to stop. Additionally, Darby mentioned Dillards persistent social media tactics and claimed the newlywed doesnt really have the instincts of when enough is enough, which can be overwhelming for anybody.

RELATED: RHOP Star Candiace Dillard Under Fire for Wishing Death on a Blogger

The mother-of-one also brought up Dillard ruthlessly tweeting horrible things about her as she gave birth to her son as proof that the former Miss United States has no decency.

Due to Dillards past behavior and Samuels history of loyalty to her, Darby has chosen to side with the latter in the emotionally-charged fight. The Real Housewives of Potomac airs Sundays at 9 p.m. EST on Bravo.

Follow Tamara Grant on Twitter.
Balmiki community people take part in a candlelight vigil and protest to seek justice for a Dalit woman, the victim of alleged gang rape in Uttar Pradesh state, in Dharamsala, India, Sept. 30, 2020. EPA



A woman from India's marginalised Dalit community has died after being gang-raped, police said Thursday, days after the death of a teenager from the same low-caste group at the hands of a group of high-caste men sparked outrage.



The 22-year-old, a member of India's "untouchable" Dalit community, was allegedly raped by two men on Tuesday and died while being taken to hospital, police in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh said.



The latest assaults come months after four men were hanged for the 2012 gang rape and murder of a student on a bus in Delhi, a case that came to symbolise the nation's problems with sexual violence.



Police said that two men in the latest case had been arrested on charges of gang-rape and murder, without giving further details on their identities.



An investigation was under way and the suspects may be tried in a special fast-track court, they added.



"A rickshaw-wallah (driver) brought her home. (She) was thrown in front of our house. My child could barely stand or speak," the NDTV news channel quoted her mother as saying.



The incident took place in Balrampur district in Uttar Pradesh state, around 500 kilometres (300 miles) from where the other Dalit girl was allegedly gang-raped in mid-September by four upper-caste men.



The 19-year-old, who was left paralysed by her injuries, was rushed to hospital in New Delhi 200 kilometres away but died on Tuesday.



Her death sparked protests in Delhi and in cities in Uttar Pradesh.



India's 200 million Dalits have long faced discrimination and abuse, and campaigners say attacks have increased during the coronavirus pandemic.



An average of 87 rape cases were reported every day last year, according to the latest data released Tuesday by the National Crime Records Bureau, but large numbers are thought to go unreported.



The bureau reported an increase of more than seven percent in the number of crimes against women in 2019 compared to the previous year. (AFP)


SCHENECTADY - Nearly 500 students in Schenectady have been shut out from attending in-person and remote classes because their immunizations are not up to date as required by the state health department.

Karen Corona, a city school district spokeswoman, said that as of Wednesday afternoon, 477 students were missing one or more of the immunizations and will be barred from participating in classes until they have had the required vaccines. She saidthat last school year, the first when religious exemptions for vaccines were not allowed, 330 students in the district were similarly kept away from class until they'd been vaccinated.

"COVID may have impacted this year as families probably didn't get doctors appointments March-June," she wrote to the Times Union.

The state Health Department guidelines require that students be current on all the necessary immunizations 14 days after the start of school, which in Schenectady was Sept. 14 for the kindergarten through Grade 12 district of roughly 10,000 students.

"We have been communicating with parents whose children's record is incomplete since the spring," said Corona, adding "we have also been sharing notices to inform families of walk-in clinics."

The issue has taken on greater significance as a result of the deadly coronavirus pandemic that led school districts this fall to offer students a mix of in-person and remote learning options.

In the case of Schenectady, an anticipated almost $29 million reduction in state aid forced school leaders to take grades 7 through 12 entirely online this semester as the district has slashed more than 400 staff as well as programs.

Jeffrey Hammond, a spokesman with the state Health Department, said Wednesday that DOH issued a reminder to all schools in the state that they are required to comply with the Public Health Law.

He said schools need to ensure that students show proof that they are meeting vaccine requirements and must within 14 days of the first day of school "receive the first age-appropriate dose in each immunization series," regardless of whether they are attending school in person or remotely.

Schools are also required to maintain a list of susceptible students, and those with medical exemptions  signed by a licensed physician  which are granted by the school or the district, not DOH, Hammond said.



In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, now more than ever, immunizations protect children and those in the community from vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles and mumps," Hammond added.

The parent of a 6th grader at Oneida Middle School in Schenectady with special needs who has been attending school fully online this fall said that as of Sept. 29 her son's online account with the district, which gave him access to his schoolwork and teachers, had been disabled.

When the woman, who asked not to be identified, approached his teachers about getting his work, she was told that they were not allowed to do that because his vaccinations were not complete.

She said she received a letter about a week and a half ago alerting her that her son needed to be up-to-date on his vaccines by Sept. 28 or he would be barred from school

"They (school district) gave very little time, and in the past, if you could show you had this appointment scheduled ... they'd say that's enough and you could still attend, but they're not allowing that anymore," she said.

Her child, who turns 12 soon, is scheduled to see the doctor Monday to get the two booster shots he needs.

By the time he resumes classes, which she hopes will be Tuesday, the youngster will have missed a week of instruction.

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The woman, who has two other school-age children in the district, both of whom are up to date with all their immunizations, said she is more upset with the state than the school district.

"I understand the health issues, but again for students who are only in remote learning, it seems like we could have some nuance around this," she added.

The woman said she has friends in other Capital Region school districts who are facing the same situation.

The Times Union was unable to verify this late Wednesday afternoon. However, the Democrat & Chronicle reported last week that an administrator in Rochester city schools said hers was among other so-call Big 5 districts, the largest in the state, that petitioned that state health department for waivers or extensions on the immunization deadline that were unlikely to be granted.

"A lot of families in our district ... they are under-insured or have no insurance or are working, and this is a lot of burden to put on families who are already going through so much right now, " the mother of the Schenectady student said.

Corona, the district spokeswoman, said Ellis Primary Care Plus, at 600 McClellan Street, is offering a walk-in immunization clinic from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Thursday.

No appointment is needed, but parents and guardians of students are required to bring insurance cards and documents showing what immunization is needed.

Those who do not have that information should contact the nurse at their child's school who can provide it directly to Ellis.
The degenerate spectacle of Tuesday nights debate between Donald Trump and Joseph Biden will be remembered in history as the United States moment of truth. The myth of an invulnerable and eternal American democracy has been shattered. Political reality has burst through the countless layers of deceitful propaganda of the corporate-financial oligarchy and exposed the undeniable fact that the White House is the political nerve center of a far-advanced conspiracy to establish a presidential dictatorship and suppress constitutionally guaranteed democratic rights.

The grunts and barks emitted by Trump on Tuesday night leave no doubt about his intentions. Trump is as serious about the threats he made during the debate as Hitler was about those he wrote down in Mein Kampf. Trump views the November election as a continuation of the political coup detat that began last June in Washington, D.C, when he unleashed military and police forces against peaceful protesters.

Trumps political strategy is fairly obvious and can be summed up with the infamous phrase: Cry Havoc, and let slip the dogs of war. The conspiracy will unfold as follows:

First, during the remaining month of the election campaign, Trump will do everything he can to discredit the voting process with the intention of delegitimizing the counting of the ballots, which, as he fully expects, will show that he lost the election by millions of votes. He will use fabricated allegations of ballot fraud to incite fascist thugs, assisted by police and unidentified federal agents, to intimidate voters and carry out violent acts at polling stations.

Second, on election night Trump will declare that he is the winner, claiming that all ballots cast through the mail are illegitimate. He repeated during the debate his claim that the only way that he can lose is if the election is rigged, through the destruction of ballots and other forms of fraud. Even though he trails heavily in the polls, Trump is counting on a delay in the tally of mail-in ballots to give him the opportunity to declare victory in key battleground states.

Third, Trump will use the 10 weeks between Election Day on November 3 and the Inauguration on January 20 to mobilize his followers in the streets, while turning to a stacked Supreme Court to decide the election in his favor. On Tuesday he again said that he was counting on the court to look at the ballots. He has the full support of the Republican Party, which is pressing forward with the rapid confirmation of Trumps Supreme Court nominee, Amy Coney Barrett, so that she will be in a position to cast a deciding vote in any court decision on the election.

Trump is also counting on support within the police and sections of the military, as well as his control over the Department of Homeland Security. The Washington Post reported Tuesday that DHS acting Secretary Chad Wolf, a Trump crony, is preparing immigration raids by Immigration and Customs Enforcement in sanctuary cities, such as Denver and Philadelphia, this month. Federal paramilitary forces will be mobilized in many major metropolises in advance of the election.

Finally, and most critical of all for the success of his conspiracy, Trump has factored in the spinelessness of the Democratic Party. He fully expects that the Democrats, apart from mouthing a few empty threats, will do nothing to stop him.

The abject bankruptcy of the Democratic Party was on display on Tuesday night. While Trump personified the viciousness of a ruling class moving toward fascism, Bidenfrail and frightenedepitomized bourgeois democracy on its death bed. Though endlessly intoning, This is the deal, Biden spent the 90 minutes of the debate evading the fact that his opponent is preparing for civil war and dictatorship. He mindlessly declared that once the votes are counted, the political crisis will be over, and everything will return to normal.

The role of the Democratic Party is to do everything it can to downplay and cover up reality, in order to prevent any popular mobilization against Trump. Biden went out of his way to declare that he is not opposed to Supreme Court nominee Amy Barrett. He complimented her as a very fine person, even though Barrett, once on the Court, will be one of those who will drive a nail into Bidens political coffin.

When Trump goaded Biden by declaring that the Democratic Party candidate supports the far left manifesto of Sanders, Biden responded by repudiating any association with left-wing politics: I beat Bernie Sanders  by a whole hell of a lot.

Biden did not even respond to Trumps verbal salute to the fascist Proud Boys. He pledged to demand that his own supporters stay calm as the election is contested, while Trump urged that they mobilize and challenge the results.

To believe that dictatorship can be averted by supporting the Democratic Party is to close ones eyes to reality. The Democrats actions are determined not by an abstract devotion to democracy but by the interests of the class that they represent.

Any strategy to counter the threat of dictatorship must base itself on a correct understanding of the underlying causes of the political crisis. Trump is the expression of a far deeper disease, whose origins and character must be properly understood.

There are several interrelated factors at work.

First is the far-reaching decay of American capitalism. In little more than a decade, the United States has been devastated by two major crises, first in 2008 and now in 2020. In both cases, the ruling class resorted to a massive and unsustainable inflow of fundsessentially, the printing of moneyto keep the financial markets afloat. The historically unprecedented transfer of wealth to the rich must be paid for through an intensification of the assault on the working class.

Second, arising from the economic weakening of the United States, is the precipitous decline in the global position of American imperialism. Despite 30 years of unending war, the American ruling class has been unable to maintain its position as the global hegemon. Now, it sees in the rise of China an existential threat. All the resources must be diverted to prepare for global warfare with China, of which the conflict with Russia is one element. The American working class must be put on rations.

Third is the staggering concentration of wealth in the hands of a tiny layer of society. The 400 richest individuals in the United States now control $3.2 trillion, and the richest one percent have more wealth than the bottom 40 percent. A recent RAND Corporation study calculated that the stagnation of income over the past four decades for the bottom 90 percent of the population created an aggregate net loss of income of $47 trillion. Democracy cannot survive under conditions of such enormous levels of inequality.

All of these underlying conditions have been intensified by the pandemic, which has revealed in the starkest way the dysfunctionality of American society. Trump speaks and acts on behalf of a criminal financial oligarchy that will stop at nothing to protect its wealth. Its response to the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated its contempt for the lives and welfare of the population. Its demand for the reopening of schools is an essential component of its program of herd immunity, which has already led to the deaths of more than 210,000 people in the United States. While the federal bailout has sent share values on Wall Street soaring, tens of millions are unemployed, and the major corporations are planning mass layoffs.

The ruling class knows that it confronts mass social anger that will take an explosive and potentially revolutionary form. This is what imparts to Trumps actions their frenzied and reckless character. Terrified of the development of social opposition, he sees in every protest and manifestation of opposition the danger of the radical left and socialism. The growth of working class militancy, already apparent in the wave of strikes, has convinced a substantial section of the ruling class that they have no way out except through violence.

The lessons of the rise of fascism in the 1920s and 1930s are of burning contemporary relevance. The examples of Hitler in Germany, Mussolini in Italy and Franco in Spain demonstrate that the turn to fascism and dictatorship comes when the ruling class is no longer able, for reasons embedded in the character of capitalist society, to resolve its crisis through democratic means.

In the aftermath of Hitlers rise to power in 1933, Leon Trotsky warned that the Nazi regime was not a uniquely German phenomenon:

In all countries the same historic laws operate, the laws of capitalist decline. If the means of production remain in the hands of a small number of capitalists, there is no way out for society. It is condemned to go from crisis to crisis, from need to misery, from bad to worse. In the various countries the decrepitude and disintegration of capitalism are expressed in diverse forms and at unequal rhythms. But the basic features of the process are the same everywhere. The bourgeoisie is leading its society to complete bankruptcy. It is capable of assuring the people neither bread nor peace. This is precisely why it cannot any longer tolerate the democratic order. It is forced to smash the workers by the use of physical violence. [Whither France, November 9, 1934]

The working class must resist Trumps coup plotting with its own program and its own methods.

First, this requires an absolute break with the Democratic Party and all political forces that work to subordinate the struggles of the working class to the capitalist system.

Second, workers must reject every form of politics that seeks to divide the working class along national, racial or gender lines. The fight is not between white America and black America, but between the working class and the corporate-financial oligarchy.

Third, the class struggle must be expanded and unified. The logic of the crisis raises the necessity for workers to prepare a political general strike through the formation of popular organizations and committees, controlled by workers, and independent of the pro-capitalist unions and the political parties of the ruling class.

Fourth, the fight for democratic rights is inseparable from the fight against the capitalist system. The many forms of social protest throughout the countryespecially the multiracial demonstrations against police brutality and the growing rank-and-file movement against the life-threatening demands for a return to workmust be unified as a class-conscious movement against capitalism.

Fifth, and most critical of all, American workers must recognize that their struggle within the United States is part of a global movement of the working class against the international capitalist system. The workers of every country, including those of China and Russia, are their class brothers and sisters. They, too, are engaged in struggle against their capitalist rulers.

The weeks to come will be used by the Socialist Equality Partys presidential campaign to mobilize the working class and youth against the threat of dictatorship.

The Socialist Equality Party and the World Socialist Web Site make an appeal to all those opposed to Trumps coup to draw upon the lessons of history, recognize the very real political dangers, and make the decision to fight back.

Support and utilize the Socialist Equality Partys presidential campaign to develop an understanding of the present crisis and the necessity of revolutionary socialist policies. Circulate this statement as widely as possible in order to build up opposition to Trumps Operation Dictatorship.

The American working class has the power to scuttle Trumps conspiracy. But it requires a socialist program and genuinely revolutionary leadership.

Do not wait passively for events to unfold. If you understand the danger, take action to avert it. And the most effective action readers of the World Socialist Web Site can take is to become members of the Socialist Equality Party and fight to put an end to capitalism in the United States and throughout the world.
OTTAWA - The Liberal government is promising to finally spend $10 billion that has sat in the accounts of its infrastructure financing agency for years, hoping to create thousands of post-pandemic jobs.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 1/10/2020 (478 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Chair of the Board of the Canada Infrastructure Bank Michael Sabia takes part in a press conference in Ottawa on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick

OTTAWA - The Liberal government is promising to finally spend $10 billion that has sat in the accounts of its infrastructure financing agency for years, hoping to create thousands of post-pandemic jobs.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said the three-year plan would create 60,000 jobs by expanding access to high-speed internet, building out agricultural irrigation infrastructure in western provinces and greening transit fleets.

He didn't outline any specific projects  or any new money  but highlighted priority areas in which the bank intends to invest.

The reshaped spending will front the costs for things like energy retrofits of buildings, offer low-cost financing for the purchase of zero-emission buses, or de-risk agriculture projects with uncertain returns due to commodity price fluctuations.

All told, the government has retooled $10 billion from the bank's allocation of $35 billion, some of which had already been earmarked for rural broadband and greening transit fleets.

Michael Sabia, chairman of the Canada Infrastructure Bank board, vowed the money wouldn't sit idle. He said he expected the agency to announce projects by the end of this year.

"There is a substantial amount of work that has been done on that, but there is a substantial amount of work to do," Sabia said Thursday at a news conference in Ottawa.

"To get that investment program moving  that's our top priority."

Sabia, the former head of Quebec's pension fund, was named chairman of the board in April amid a shakeup of the infrastructure bank's senior executives. A new chief executive has yet to be named.

At that time, he and the government predicted that the bank would play a major role in stimulating the economy after the pandemic.

The Liberals created the agency in 2017 to entice funding from private-sector partners, particularly big institutional investors like pension funds, to pay for what the government called "transformational" infrastructure projects.

However, the bank has been criticized for the relatively few investments it has made thus far, in just nine projects. During last fall's federal election campaign, both the Conservatives and the NDP promised to abolish the bank if elected.

Conservative Leader Erin O'Toole reiterated that promise on Thursday, calling the Liberals' plan just another re-announcement.

"Construction workers in New Brunswick, commuters in Montreal, and agricultural workers in the Prairies dont need more Liberal hashtags and photo ops," he said in a statement.

"They need an actual plan to build roads, bridges, and railways."

The Liberals say the investment plan is part of the government's promise in last week's throne speech to create one million jobs and revive an economy ravaged by the COVID-19 pandemic. It is also intended to help the government meet its goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Among the new allocations are $1.5 billion for agricultural infrastructure in the West, and $2.5 billion for clean power, or half the $5 billion previously given for so-called green infrastructure.

There is also $2 billion for broadband to connect some 750,000 households and businesses, up from the $500 million the bank in 2018 was asked to invest. The Liberals promised in summer 2019 to spend $6 billion through to 2030 to expand broadband to all corners of the country.

A further $500 million is to help speed up the things that need to be done before starting construction, such as studies and technical reports.

Sabia said projects that get the bank's backing would require them to contribute to economic growth, draw in private capital to turn $1 of public funding into $2 or $3 of spending, and help the bank earn back what it pays out.

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He said the bank has already started the work needed to identify and review proposed and existing projects.

"The analyses have been done because we know where these projects are," Sabia said. "So this plan, as I said, is very real, very concrete, bottom-up build and we have a lot of confidence in it."

New Democrat infrastructure critic Taylor Bachrach said the infrastructure bank has proven to be the wrong tool for getting projects built.

"The public-private approach the Liberals continue to push consistently ends up costing Canadians more over the long term, while private investors can make millions," he said.

Bloc Quebecois critic Xavier Barsalou-Duval said in a statement that provinces and cities need direct and unconditional federal funding to pay for projects. Instead, Barsalou-Duval said, the Trudeau Liberals are offering more loans.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 1, 2020.
They are reducing opportunities for fruitful dialogue between the East and West and increasing hate speech among societies, El-Tayyeb said

Egypts Grand Imam of El-Azhar Ahmed El-Tayyeb denounced some Western officials' insistence to use the term Islamic terrorism, demanding the incrimination of its use.

El-Tayyeb's office released a statement saying the term is offensive to Islam and its believers and reflects a shameful ignorance of the religion's graceful Sharia and its laws and principles that incriminate violence against human rights, freedoms, and mutual respect.

Sheikh Al-Azhar reasserts that attaching the crime of terrorism to Islam or any other divine religion is a defective confusion between the truth of religions that came down for the happiness of mankind and using them for low purposes at the hands of a minority, the statement added.

El-Tayyeb urged Western officials to refrain from using misleading terms that will only increase hatred and radicalisation and defame the principles of peaceful religions that call against violence and promote coexistence.

"Those who insist on using this hateful term are not aware they are reducing opportunities for fruitful dialogue between the East and West and increasing hate speech among societies," the statement added.

Al-Azhar is Egypt and the Muslim worlds Sunni institution.

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A middle-aged man from Kenyatta Road in Juja, Kiambu County, Kenya has been arrested for causing grievous bodily harm to a 20-year-old man and his mother.

The suspect bit the 20-year-old mans p.e.n.i.s and a finger of the victims mother following a disagreement between the suspect and the woman.

Joyce Muthoni was putting up a one-floor building in his compound to accommodate her two sons, a move which angered the suspect, Eric Nyagah, who vowed not to allow Muthoni construct the building, arguing it lowered the status of the residential estate.

Nyagah had allegedly brought down a wall of the building, which was under construction, forcing Muthoni to inquire why he had destroyed a part of her house.

Nyagah allegedly became violent and began assaulting Muthoni. Muthonis son, Charles Kinyua, who was watching the fight between his mother and the suspect from afar rushed to the scene to rescue his mother.

Nyagah is said to have overpowered the 20-year-old man, whom he wrestled to the ground and bit his manhood before turning on the mans mother. Muthoni sustained injuries after Nyagah allegedly bit her finger.

Kinyua was taken to the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), where he underwent a corrective surgical operation.

Juja Sub-County police boss Dorothy Migarusha confirmed the incident, saying the suspect will be arraigned soon.

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OKLAHOMA CITY -- In 2009, the Food and Drug Administration banned numerous cigarette flavors, from chocolate to cherry to cinnamon, in an effort to decrease their attractiveness to young people. But it did not ban menthol flavoring. Now, the FDA is considering whether to ban the minty flavor, and a researcher at Stephenson Cancer Center at OU Medicine is conducting a study that will help inform that decision.

Tobacco regulatory science researcher Amy Cohn, Ph.D., received a $1.3 million grant from the National Institutes of Health and the FDA Center for Tobacco Products for her study, which will investigate the role of menthol flavoring in smoking habits among young adults. The study will build upon on existing research as the FDA gathers evidence for its proposal to ban menthol flavoring in cigarettes.

"A lot of young people who initiate tobacco use with a cigarette do so with menthol, and one of the hypotheses for this is that the minty, cool sensation of menthol masks the harshness of inhaled cigarette smoke," said Cohn, who is part of the TSET Health Promotion Research Center at Stephenson Cancer Center. "Young people who had their first cigarette with menthol flavoring reported a more positive smoking experience compared to young people who didn't smoke menthol as their first cigarette. That's important because an initial positive experience is linked to ongoing use of tobacco products."

Cohn's study will also help the FDA in another move it is contemplating: bringing very low-nicotine cigarettes to the market with the aim of helping people reduce and ultimately quit smoking. Low-nicotine cigarettes have approximately 0.4 milligrams of nicotine compared to the average cigarette, which contains 10 milligrams of nicotine. While previous studies have shown that low-nicotine cigarettes help people stop smoking, Cohn will specifically investigate whether menthol flavoring in low-nicotine cigarettes contributes to that reduction in smoking, or if it has the opposite effect and entices people to continue smoking.

Cohn uses three primary methods to measure the appeal of different types of cigarettes. In her laboratory, she can analyze smoking behavior, which is a proxy for the influence of a particular tobacco product. She can measure how many puffs people take, the interval between puffs, the volume of the puff and the draw of the puff. Another method involves giving study participants cigarettes, both menthol and regular, to take home and smoke as they wish for a week. They will be surveyed to gather information about how satisfying each type was in comparison to the other, and whether they choose to use other tobacco products instead, as a potential negative unintended consequence of bringing low-nicotine cigarettes to the market.

Study participants will also take part in an "experimental tobacco marketplace," similar to any online shopping experience, in which they shop online according to the availability of various tobacco products, including low-nicotine options. Researchers will manipulate the types of tobacco products available in the marketplace to determine what young people choose to buy when menthol is and is not available in cigarettes and other combustible tobacco products. The marketplace serves as a simulation of tobacco policies, allowing researchers to see how people react to policies before they actually go into effect.

"Menthol cigarettes are disproportionately used by several at-risk populations, including African Americans, young people, Hispanics and women," Cohn said. "There are a lot of hypotheses that a ban on menthol would reduce the public health impact of cigarette smoking, which we know is a very strong risk factor for cancer and other diseases. Our research will help the FDA make decisions in its regulatory efforts."

Research reported in this press release is supported by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, a component of the National Institutes of Health, under the award number 1R01DA050990-01.

###

STEPHENSON CANCER CENTER

Stephenson Cancer Center at OU Medicine was named Oklahoma's top facility for cancer care by U.S. News & World Report in its 2020-21 rankings. As Oklahoma's only National Cancer Institute-Designated Cancer Center, Stephenson Cancer Center is one of the nation's elite centers, representing the top 2% of cancer centers in the country. It is the largest and most comprehensive oncology practice in the state, delivering patient-centered, multidisciplinary care for every type of cancer. As one of the nation's leading research organizations, Stephenson Cancer Center uses the latest innovations to fight and eliminate cancer, and is currently ranked No. 1 among all cancer centers in the nation for the number of patients participating in clinical trials sponsored by the NCI's National Clinical Trials Network. For more information, visit stephensoncancercenter.org.

OU MEDICINE

OU Medicine -- along with its academic partner, the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center -- is the state's only comprehensive academic health system of hospitals, clinics and centers of excellence. With 11,000 employees and more than 1,300 physicians and advanced practice providers, OU Medicine is home to Oklahoma's largest physician network with a complete range of specialty care. OU Medicine serves Oklahoma and the region with the state's only freestanding children's hospital, the only National Cancer Institute-Designated Stephenson Cancer Center and Oklahoma's flagship hospital, which serves as the state's only Level 1 trauma center. Becker's Hospital Review named OU Medical Center one of the 100 Great Hospitals in America for 2020. OU Medicine's oncology program at Stephenson Cancer Center and OU Medical Center was named Oklahoma's top facility for cancer care by U.S. News & World Report in its 2020-21 rankings. OU Medicine was also ranked by U.S. News & World Report as high performing in these specialties: Colon Surgery, COPD and Congestive Heart Failure. OU Medicine's mission is to lead healthcare in patient care, education and research. To learn more, visit oumedicine.com.
Microsoft Corp. unveiled the cheapest-ever model of its Surface laptop, aiming to take a larger share of the lucrative notebook computer market by targeting students and budget shoppers.

The Surface Go Laptop, starting at $549, is smaller and lighter than the companys other notebooks and has a fingerprint scanner to log in. The device comes in three metallic finishes  ice blue, platinum and a pinkish-gold color that Microsoft calls sandstone, and has 13 hours of battery life and an Intel Corp. processor. Customers can pre-order Thursday ahead of the laptops availability on Oct. 13, Surface Vice President Pete Kyriacou said.

Microsoft is releasing its second laptop, expanding the Surface product line in the traditional notebook-computer market after starting off by pioneering a different type of device -- the two-in-one or detachable tablet, which consists of a touch-screen that separates from a keyboard. Apple Inc.s cheapest laptop is the $999 MacBook Air, while Google-software based Chromebooks from various manufacturers start at about $250 for a decent model. Googles Pixelbook Go, that companys lower-end laptop, retails for $650.

The software maker uses the Surface business to showcase its Windows and Office programs and to experiment with different hardware designs. Microsoft has a far smaller position in the notebook market than the detachable-tablet space, where its No. 2 behind Apple. In the June quarter, Microsoft sold more than 1.61 million detachable machines and 245,934 laptops, according to IDC. The laptop market is a far larger prize, worth nearly $44 billion in the June period, compared with less than $10 billion for detachable tablets, IDC said.

In the year ended June 30, Surface sales rose by 8%, or $457 million, Microsoft said in a filing, without specifying total revenue. Thats a slower rate than the 23% increase the year before. The company reported $6.46 billion in devices revenue for the year, a metric that includes Surface devices, as well as mice and keyboards.

The Redmond, Washington-based company also unveiled a new Surface Pro X, an update to its detachable tablet device that runs a custom chip developed with Qualcomm Inc. and using ARM Ltd.s technology. The new model is faster and gets 15 hours of battery life, said Robin Seiler, a Surface vice president, in a video shared with reporters.

Microsoft will also start selling Surface in eleven new European markets: Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia.

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After four federal judges blocked additional operational changes to the U.S. Postal Service and ordered it to reverse the changes that had been made, South Jersey and Delaware processing and delivery plants have started reinstalling some of the mail sorting machines that had been removed.

But in Philadelphia, nothing has changed. No machines in the Lindbergh Boulevard facility have been replaced, local union leaders and employees say, trucks are still being forced to leave on time, with or without the mail, and mail delivery is still being delayed.

In fact, despite federal court orders, more operational changes have occurred in the Philadelphia, South Jersey, and Delaware processing facilities in the last week, according to union employees at all three locations.

Employees at the Southwest Philadelphia, New Castle, and Bellmawr plants were told that mail sorting machines must stop sorting the mail by 5 a.m., whether all the mail has been sorted or not. Typically, the machines start sorting mail around 1 p.m., and dont stop until the job is done. The time a machine usually finishes varies greatly and depends on the volume of mail that day.

 READ MORE: The head of the USPS said he was suspending changes. But Philly mail delays arent getting better

The goal, employees believe, is to make sure all the mail makes it onto the delivery trucks by the time they need to leave, so that no mail is left behind. But instead, at least in Philadelphia, its resulting in thousands of letter pieces going unsorted, said Laurence Love, an assistant clerk craft director who operates mail sorting machines at the Philadelphia plant.

Ive been here for 35 years and we have never had any directive to shut off a machine, said Love.

The massive sorting machines are programmed to sort mail based on address and route, making it easy for carriers to grab their bins of mail and hit the road. Carriers are usually only left to hand sort a few letters and flats that are unable to go through the machines.

But by 5 a.m., those items that havent been sorted yet are then only divided by route, not address, leaving some carriers with hundreds of pieces to sort themselves.

Not every machine has unsorted mail, but those sorting zip codes with heavy volumes, are struggling to finish, Love said. Last Sunday, which is usually the Postal Services heaviest mail volume day, at least 20,000 pieces of mail were left unsorted across four machines.

When you have to hand sort thousands of pieces of mail, that is delaying the mail seriously, he said.

The USPS did not respond to requests for comment. Union leaders say its unclear where the order for this change originated, but they were alarmed it was being made across multiple districts.

In a statement late Thursday, Attorney General Josh Shapiro called the changes deeply concerning and said his office is investigating the matter and will take additional action in court if necessary.

These operational changes were made illegally and the courts have spoken  stop it. My office is investigating this situation and any others we are alerted to while our injunction on these practices is in place, Shapiro said.

Carriers across the city said they havent felt the impacts of the change yet. Over time, though, it could delay carriers' work, said Frank Bollinger, business agent for the South Jersey Area Local.

Given the expected parcel increase surrounding the election and coming holidays, the timing of the change is especially concerning, Bollinger said.

It has the potential of being a very major deal, he said. It can build up and lead to mail being left behind and mail being delayed."

Machines reinstalled, more overtime approved

In the last three weeks, four federal judges, including one in Pennsylvania, granted preliminary injunctions that bar the Postal Service and its leader, Louis DeJoy, from making any more operational changes. The judges ordered that the changes that had been made  which included the cutting of overtime, elimination of extra transportation trips to complete mail delivery, and the removal of mail sorting machines  be reversed.

 READ MORE: Pennsylvania judge temporarily blocks USPS changes

Some postal employees have said that their working conditions have improved in the last two weeks. Overtime is being approved, work days are not as long, and for the most part, post offices are clearing their mail for the day. In the facilities where sorting machines are being reinstalled, mail is being processed faster.

Delawares sole processing center in New Castle was alerted last week that two of the six barcode sorting machines that were removed this summer will be reassembled, said Trina Wynn, president of Wilmington Area Local 152.

By just returning two of the machines, Wynn said, processing speed has dramatically improved.

South Jerseys processing and distribution center in Bellmawr will see three sorting machines reinstalled of the seven that were disassembled, said Bollinger.

Things are running a little bit smoother, he said, adding that no mail is being left behind.

At least 671 sorting machines  or about 10% of the agencys inventory  were removed this summer as part of a long-term plan to adjust to the declining use of letter mail. By comparison, 125 machines were decommissioned in 2018, and 186 were taken offline in 2019.

Its unclear how many machines are being reinstalled across the country, but DeJoys lawyers have pointed out that some machines have already been generally disassembled for their usable parts and cannot be returned to service.

The Lehigh Valleys processing center in Bethlehem Township lost three machines and has not been alerted that any will be replaced, said Andy Kubat, president of Lehigh Valley Area Local. One has been sent to the scrap yard and cannot be salvaged, he said.

He said reinstalling machines would greatly improve their ability to process all the mail, especially now that political mail is beginning to increase.

I know the employees are going to do everything they can to make sure those ballots get delivered, said Kubat, who works as a clerk in the processing center. But we are going to see an unprecedented increase in the number of mail in ballots in Pennsylvania that we didnt see in 2016.

We barely stay afloat

In Philadelphia, none of the nine sorting machines that were decommissioned this summer are set to be reassembled, said Nick Casselli, president of Phillys American Postal Workers Union Local 89.

Theyre not disassembling more machines, but theyre also not putting any back together, said Casselli. Nothing has been done to improve our processing."

Mail is not piling up on the floors as it was in July and August, carriers across Philadelphia said, but some are wary to assume that one good week indicates systemic improvements.

 READ MORE: Changes to the Postal Service leave an Upper Darby mail carrier exhausted, yet eager to serve his residents

We barely stay afloat, said a North Philadelphia letter carrier who asked to remain anonymous for fear of retribution. But things are getting better.

Still, residents are reporting days-long delays in items theyre expecting. This is likely stemming from delays inside the citys processing center, Casselli said.

Trucks are still ordered to leave on time, with or without mail, Love said. Because of that, the processing centers staffing shortage, loss of machines, and now a hard sorting deadline, mail delays are not improving.

We have tons of mail that we dont get out, said Love, the clerk. Tons of flat mail is being delayed, and tons of first-class letters are being delayed.

And residents are still feeling the impacts.

We still arent getting our mail on time, said George John Smith, a 62-year-old Overbrook resident. But Im just learning to live with it like this.
LONDON, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Clarivate Plc (NYSE: CCC), a global leader in providing trusted information and insights to accelerate the pace of innovation, announced today it will report its financial results for the third quarter 2020 before the market opens on Thursday, October 29. The press release and earnings supplement, with accompanying financial information, will be posted on the Clarivate investor website at www.clarivate.com. The Company will host a conference call and webcast on Thursday, October 29 at 8:00 AM Eastern Time to review the results.

The live webcast of the call will be accessible through the investor relations section of the Company's website. To join the webcast please visit https://services.choruscall.com/links/ccc201105.htmlhttps://services.choruscall.com/links/ccc200506.htmlhttps://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__services.choruscall.com_links_ccc200227.html&d=DwMFAg&c=OGmtg_3SI10Cogwk-ShFiw&r=gUTuxzUS1UsIb16SBz5wNw-B2Hhn5Mj0GUrJacY2qW4&m=vhXx2ZeRWbZcHd6Muf2C3tGGi51xaUEek2wBWSGU5vs&s=XbYKMcoQknLglZc8kppJyMq1mpiuLK6oQd1bdyBgMF0&e=. A replay will also be available on the investor relations section of the Company's website.

Interested parties may access the live audio broadcast by dialing (888) 317-6003 (in the United States), 412-317-6061 (International) and 866-284-3684 (Canada). The conference ID number is 9584356.

An audio replay will be available approximately two hours after the completion of the call at 877-344-7529 (in the US), 412-371-0088 (International) and 855-669-9658 (Canada). The replay access code is 10139889. The recording will be available for replay through November 12, 2020.

About Clarivate

Clarivate is a global leader in providing solutions to accelerate the lifecycle of innovation. Our bold mission is to help customers solve some of the world's most complex problems by providing actionable information and insights that reduce the time from new ideas to life-changing inventions. Covering scientific and academic research, pharmaceutical, biotech and healthcare intelligence and intellectual property services, we help customers discover, protect and commercialize their inventions using our trusted subscription and technology-based solutions coupled with deep domain expertise. For more information, please visit?clarivate.com.

Category: Earnings

Source: Clarivate Plc

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In January, Republican Gary Gates defeated Democrat Eliz Markowitz in a special election for the position of state representative for House District 28. The vacancy was left by Rep. John Zerwas midterm, which opened the position again for this November. The two candidates are now running against each other for the same seat nine months later.

Both candidates participated in a question and answer series on their respective opinions on issues facing the district.

Tell us a little about yourself. What made you decide to run for House District 28?

Gates: This community has given me so much; I founded my business here and raised my family here; I want to do what I can to give back. Shortly after I was elected, COVID-19 began to devastate Texas, and Fort Bend County was on the front lines. We had the first case in the state. As businesses shut down and seniors were told to stay in, I went to work contacting residents to connect them with the information and resources they needed. We reached out to over 30,000 people and distributed care packets to over 15,000 residents here in Fort Bend

Together, we are weathering the storm, but COVID-19 will not be the last challenge we face. I want to help our community be prepared for what lies ahead and give our families and the next generation every chance to succeed.

Markowitz: Im a Fort Bend County native with an educational background in computer science, business, healthcare, and education and a professional background in all of the aforementioned fields. I believe that my diverse educational and professional background provides me with a unique perspective on the issues that are most concerning to the constituents of HD 28 and Fort Bend County. I previously ran for the Texas State Board of Education because I wanted to work to improve Texas public schools. While running, I heard about all the challenges that face Texans beyond education, such as healthcare, economic development, criminal justice reform, disaster management and school safety. I also learned that Texans want an honest representative that will conduct herself with integrity and work to improve the lives of all Texansnot just a select few.

I am running because I believe that this district deserves a representative who puts the well-being of people over personal power or prestige and treats every individual with respect and dignity. I am ready to put forth whatever it takes to win this election and ensure that we elect individuals with honesty and integrity who are willing to work for a more equitable Texas.

Related: Suspect in custody following string of armed robberies in Katy and Houston

Youve both mentioned that education reform is among your top priorities for the district. What are some of the things you would work to change, and what is your plan for enacting those changes?

Markowitz: The pivotal role of our public education system has come to the forefront over the past year, and we must revamp the way we fund and operate our public schools if we wish to see future economic success. For too long, we have underfunded our schools, underpaid our teachers and wasted money on metrics like standardized testing. In addition to the countless hours of lost learning time, Texas pays over $90 million annually to administer STAAR tests and hundreds of millions on test development. Meanwhile, the quality of K-12 education has sharply declined as teachers teach to the test in order to ensure that students master the current curriculum standards. Unfortunately, the current standards do not allow for student mastery, in-depth understanding, or experiential learning. The emphasis on rote memorization and lack of instruction time spent developing critical thinking skills leaves students unprepared for either college or a career. Furthermore, school funding and, often, teacher evaluations are also partially based on STAAR results. To link school funding to the results of a one-shot high-stakes standardized test, which have been shown to be unreliable and invalid metrics of student achievement, is inequitable in a state where districts themselves are not standardized.

Gates: The Texas Constitution guarantees a quality education to all Texans, which means we must take an all of the above approach to education and ensure our students are prepared for what comes next. Our high schools need to increase workforce training so that when students graduate, they can thrive in college or in the workforce.

Texas needs to continue to increase funding for our schools at the state level to reduce the burden on homeowners and give our school districts the budget certainty they need to plan for the future. We need to ensure that additional funding is going to the classroom where it is needed most to support our teachers and give them the resources they need to prepare our next generation.

Property taxes are a major consideration for residents in the district. What are your views on taxes?

Gates: Fighting skyrocketing property taxes and utility fees will be a top priority next session. We must address the appraisal process and put checks in place so that sky-high taxes do not prevent young families from achieving their dream of homeownership. I am committed to appraisal reform and ensuring the state pays its fair share for our schools so we can reduce property taxes for hardworking Texas families.

Markowitz: In 2011, the administration pulled $5.4 billion from the public education budget, reducing the amount of money the state put towards public education from 50% to 38%, placing the difference on the backs of taxpayers. We must immediately ensure the state pays its fair share of 50 percent and remove the excess property tax burden placed on taxpayers.

Alternatively, Texas remains one of four states in the nation that does not have a corporate income tax, allowing the tax burden to fall on the shoulders of small businesses rather than large corporations. Should we institute a corporate income tax, we would be able to accrue revenue from such corporations, ensure that we account for budget shortfalls, and allow for a continual stream of revenue for the state to utilize in other sectors.

Finally, the legalization of marijuana could create a new revenue stream. If Texas were to tax the sale of marijuana at 15 percent tax rate, the state would pull in nearly half a billion dollars in tax revenue the first year. Not only would Texas benefit from the sales tax, but the state would also save a significant amount of funding from eliminating trials and incarcerations of marijuana-offenders.

What are some of your other biggest priorities?

Markowitz: The pandemic has shown how important it is that Texans have access to affordable, quality health care. Despite having the greatest number of uninsured individuals in the nation, Texas has continually declined to increase the number of Texans who qualify for Medicaid, leading to increased state spending on health care as medical care is shifted to emergency rooms that have higher costs. The Texas Legislature should immediately approve Medicaid expansion to all individuals for whom federal matching funds are available, which would provide insurance to over 1.2 million uninsured Texans. Medicaid expansion, which is supported by the majority of Texans, would bring over $100 billion in federal funding to the state over the next decade, improving the fiscal health of health care providers, reducing the costs of uncompensated care and state health care costs and benefiting the economy. Texans should support legislation that expands upon the principles of the Affordable Care Act, providing preventative and primary care treatment for medical, dental, and vision issues, and allows Texans to choose their providers, replacing high insurance premiums, deductibles and copays with progressive financing options.

Gates: We know first-hand the devastation floods can cause. I'm dedicated to working with my colleagues in the House to make sure Texas is prepared for the next storm and that we are also working proactively on projects to mitigate potential future floods. And I will give law enforcement the tools they need to protect children from criminals who seek to exploit them through human trafficking.

On HoustonChronicle.com: After fierce debate, city to mark alternative to Columbus Day

What are your goals for the 87th legislative session, if elected? Are there any pieces of legislation that are of particular interest to you?

Gates: We must continue to work to find market-based solutions to lower healthcare costs and increase access to low-cost preventative treatments for all Texans, regardless of income. Cancer screenings and mammograms should never be seen as a luxury.

We have to get Texans back to work this next session, that means staying the course with low taxes and eliminating intrusive red tape so our businesses and families can once again thrive.

Markowitz: As we have seen over the past year with COVID-19, and previously with multiple 500-year floods in a five-year period, robust disaster management, health care, and public-school systems are imperative to a functioning society. Every Texan should be assured that the state has comprehensive plans for handling the occurrence and aftermath of natural and man-made disasters. Immediately, we must develop and implement measures to allow for our economy and schools to safely reopen. Furthermore, we must also proactively develop plans to handle any future emergent situations. Following the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, many counties in Texas were left without sufficient support. The state must develop, fund, and implement processes to ensure the welfare of Texan residents during emergent situations, including plans to manage emergency transportation, both the temporary and permanent housing of displaced individuals, both the short-term and long-term health care needs of displaced individuals, the educational needs of displaced students, debris and hazardous material removal, testing physical locations prior to repopulation, and securing funding to rebuild. The state must also pass legislation that will prohibit the sale of residential land located in a flood-plain without the buyer's knowledge.

claire.goodman@chron.com
A Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court on Thursday summoned top Uttar Pradesh government officials to the court over the alleged gang-rape and murder of a 19-year-old Dalit woman in Hathras district of Uttar Pradesh and her forcible cremation subsequently.

A bench of justices Rajan Roy and Jaspreet Singh issued summons to the Uttar Pradesh additional chief secretary, director-general of police and additional director general of police, asking them to be present before the court on October 12 to explain the case.

Taking suo moto cognisance of the September 14 gang-rape and subsequent death of the teenager, the bench also ordered the Hathras district magistrate and senior superintendent of police to appear before it.

The bench asked all officials to come prepared with all the relevant material and documents to apprise the court of their versions of the incident.

The court, which appeared especially upset over the police cremating the teen's body overnight allegedly forcibly in Hathras without her parent's consent, also asked officials to apprise the bench of the latest status of the probe into the alleged gang-rape and murder case.

Live TV

The bench also asked the late teen's parent to come to the court to apprise it of their version of the incident and ordered the Hathras district administration to arrange for their travel to the court.
Three persons who allegedly invaded the Mepe and Aveyime Police stations in the Volta Region and made away with 10 AK 47 rifles have been remanded by an Accra Circuit Court.



The accused persons are; Francis Kudzo Wor, a 71 year old, and Samuel Wor and Kobla Kove, a 67 year old fisherman, have been charged with three counts of conspiracy, stealing, participating in campaign of a prohibited organization, namely Western Togoland and causing unlawful damage.

The court preserved their pleas.



They are to reappear before the court presided over by Ms. Eva Bannerman Williams on October 15.



Mr. Theophilus Donkor, one of the defense lawyers, argued that the three accused persons were innocent and were nowhere near the scene on the day of the incident.



Mr. Donkor said one of his clients, Kove, for instance attended a funeral only to return to be arrested by the Police.



According to counsel, the state had violated the 48 hour rule and the court should not listen to the Police arguments because the accused persons had spent more than four days in Police custody.



Defense Counsel argued that a search conducted by the Police in the accused persons room revealed nothing incriminating, adding that the accused persons are just being used as scape goats.



Counsel said Francis and Kove were diabetic and that they had been able to take their medication in custody.



Defense Counsel said Samuel had an elderly mother and father under his care adding that, he was also a bread winner for his family.



Counsel said their continued detention for an offence they had not committed would be a great injustice to them.



Prosecution led by Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Sylvester Asare said they were in court because of Article 14 (3) of the 1992 Constitution.



He said the Police were still conducting investigations into the matter.



The facts of the case as narrated by ASP Asare are that the accused persons are residents and natives of Aveyime in the Volta Region and also members of the prohibited Organization namely Western Togoland Organization in the Volta Region.



ASP Asare said on September 25, this year, the accused persons together with others now at large numbering about 20, armed themselves with offensive weapons such as guns, cutlasses among others and besieged the Aveyime and Mepe Police Stations respectively.



Prosecution said the accused persons attacked the officers of these stations, overpowered the few personnel on duty and vandalized properties at both stations and made away with 10 AK47 assault rifles and a Police patrol vehicle.



According to prosecution, the accused persons and their accomplices fled from the scene on board the Police vehicle amidst firing into the air to ward off members of the community.



ASP Asare said the accused persons and their accomplices later abandoned the Police vehicle at a secluded place and went into hiding.



On September 26, this year, Police intelligence led to the arrest of the accused persons from their hideout at Aveyime, prosecution said.



Efforts are being made to trace their accomplices and arrest them as well as retrieve the stolen rifles.

Source: GNA









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Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service has apologised for taking two hours to respond to the Manchester Arena terror attack.

At the public inquiry into the attack on Wednesday, the service blamed 'silence' from the police on the night of the bombing which led fire service bosses to assume there was a continuing marauding terror strike and so firefighters were kept back.

But they pointed to an infamous terror training exercise at the Trafford Centre some 12 months before the Arena attack where there was an almost identical communications failure which delayed firefighters and paramedics reaching the scene for 90 minutes.

Salman Abedi (pictured) killed himself and 22 innocent people when he detonated a huge bomb in his backpack as concert-goers were leaving an Ariana Grande concert at the Manchester Arena on May 22, 2017. Hundreds of others were also seriously injured.

The revelations emerged on day 13 of the Manchester Arena public inquiry as organisations involved in the aftermath, including the emergency services, continued to make opening statements to the chairman, Sir John Saunders.

Salman Abedi killed himself and 22 innocent people when he detonated a huge bomb in his backpack as concert-goers were leaving an Ariana Grande concert at the Arena on May 22, 2017. Hundreds of others were also seriously injured.

Abedi's brother Hashem has been jailed for life and must serve a minimum 55 years behind bars for helping his sibling source chemicals for the bomb and prepare for the attack.

Andrew Warnock QC, representing Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) on behalf of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, said: 'In relation to the fire service response on the night, we say at the outset that GMFRS accepts and agrees with the conclusions of the fire and rescue expert... that its initial actions in response to the Arena bombing were neither adequate nor effective.

'It is unacceptable that it took over two hours for the fire and rescue service to attend the Arena.

'On behalf of GMFRS we would like to say to the families and victims that we are sorry that this happened.

'The inquiry will hear evidence from many individual GMFRS witnesses who still have profound feelings of frustration and deep anguish that they were not there to help.

'It is important that the reasons for that failing are fully investigated. GMFRS would like the chairman and the families to know that it welcomes the aim of this inquiry to get to the truth of what happened on the evening of the attack and to scrutinise whether the measures GMFRS has put in place since the attack are sufficient to protect Manchester into the future.'

Mr Warnock admitted: 'There were failures in communication, in particular with other agencies and their control rooms.'

He went on that there was 'an unforeseen gap in incident command... delaying these difficulties being solved as quickly as they might have been'.

The QC admitted there was 'a lack of situational awareness' from the fire service due to communication problems on the night.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service has apologised for taking two hours to respond to the Manchester Arena terror attack at the public inquiry into the attack three years ago

The response of the fire service 'was driven by a misinformed and skewed understanding of what was happening'.

He said: 'The information relayed to key GMFRS personnel, combined with their assumptions as to what a terror attack would likely involve, led them to assume that the bomb was one part of an on-going terrorist attack of a type which had recently incurred in the UK, continental Europe and elsewhere.

'Silence from partner agencies as the night went on fed the assumption that the police were dealing with an on-going armed threat.'

He added: 'No responsible fire officer could send unarmed and unprotected personnel into what they understood to be an ongoing gun or bomb attack and, indeed to do so would have been contrary to the established guidance for dealing with such incidents.

Manchester Arena bomber Salman Abedi (pictured) was brought to the attention of M15 on at least 18 occasions before the 2017 terror attack, a public inquiry has heard

'However, the understanding itself was - it is now known - completely wrong.'

The QC pointed to an infamous training drill at the Trafford Centre in May 2016 which replicated a marauding terrorist attack.

Police chiefs had to apologise when the man playing the suicide bomber shouted 'Allahu Akbar' as he 'detonated' his fake bomb at the beginning of the drill, which was filmed by the media.

At the Arena inquiry, Mr Warnock said: 'We would like the bereaved families to know that prior to the attack GMFRS had taken the risk of terrorist attacks and the need to respond to mass casualty events extremely seriously.

'That it had done so makes it all the more disappointing for all involved that the organisation's response fell so far short when the Manchester Arena bomb happened.'

He said police were supposed to declare Operation Plato, where there is suspected to be a marauding terrorist, during the Trafford Centre training exercise, named Winchester Accord, which would then have triggered a response from the fire and ambulance services.

Mr Warnock said said neither the fire service nor specialist ambulance crews received any contact from GMP during the drill and that 'attempts to contact the police commanders proved unsuccessful'.

The enquiry heard that Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service accepts and agrees with the conclusions of the fire and rescue expert and that 'its initial actions in response to the Arena bombing in May 2017 were neither adequate nor effective'

The QC said: 'The result was a delay of at least one-and-a-half hours in both the fire and ambulances services being deployed to the Trafford Centre.'

The QC said: 'There are obvious, striking, parallels with what happened on the night of the Arena incident.

'One difference being that ambulance personnel did reach the Arena, but largely it seems by reason of the fact that Paramedic Ennis self-deployed and gained early situational awareness for that agency.

'It has been suggested that experiences such as these gave rise to negative expectations on the part of some GMFRS personnel about what could be expected of the police.

'That evidence will be explored by the inquiry, but it would be wrong to conclude that this led GMFRS to be defeatist and simply resign itself to non-compliance with... principles by the police.

'On the contrary, GMFRS acted proactively to address these issues in the aftermath of Winchester Accord.'
Brad Parscale, campaign manager for US President Donald Trump's 2020 reelection campaign, speaks during a campaign rally at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas, October 22, 2018.

A Florida judge has ordered that police can keep nearly a dozen guns from Brad Parscale, the former head of President Donald Trump's reelection campaign, who was taken into custody Sunday after an armed standoff at his home.

Parscale, 44, poses "significant danger of causing personal injury to themselves or others in the near future," cops had reportedly said in a request for the order, which allows them to keep Parscale's guns for at least two weeks.

A Broward County judge granted the request by cops and it has been served on Parscale, a police spokeswoman told CNBC on Thursday.

Police have the option of asking a judge to extend the order by up to one year.

The order comes a day after Parscale said he was resigning from Trump's campaign, where he most recently was serving as a senior advisor for digital and data.

Cops seized 11 guns from Parscale's home after Sunday's standoff, which ended when SWAT officers dramatically tackled the shirtless and shoeless digital guru outside his Fort Lauderdale home.

He was taken to a hospital that same day under a state mental health law that allows for involuntary admittance to a health-care facility.

Police had gone to the house following a 911 call reporting that Parscale had loaded a round of ammunition in front of his wife, Candice Parscale, after a verbal altercation inside.

Candice fled the house and heard what seemed to be a gunshot, a realtor who saw Candice outside the house told police during that 911 call.
Pegatron Corporation, photo: Internet

A fortnight ago, Pegatron Corporation, one of the worlds five largest electronic parts and component manufacturers, announced that it would invest $1 billion into Vietnam, and is proposing to develop a plant in the northern region, according to a source from the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI). Pegatron will pour $19 million as part of this capital volume into an industrial zone.

The company is also seeking permission for future projects worth $480 million, also part of the above-said $1 billion, and estimated to create 22,500 direct jobs, while contributing around VND100 billion ($4.35 million) annually to state coffers. A third phase in Vietnam worth $500 million of investment is set for 2026-2027.

Besides these plans on manufacturing of computing, communications, and consumer electronics, Pegatron is also seeking to move its research and development centre from China to Vietnam.

According to a representative of the MPIs Foreign Investment Agency (FIA), Pegatron has been planning to relocate out of China for nearly a year. Reasons include the US-China trade dispute and an ongoing patent lawsuit with Qualcomm, which may end up costing Pegatron billions of US dollars.

This year, rumours have circulated relating to the relocation of Pegatron to Indonesia or India, attached to the manufacturing of Apple products. Pegatron currently supplies 30 per cent of total components to Apple.

With Samsung still being the biggest presence in Vietnam and the likes of Apple, Intel, and Nintendo attempting to forge new strategies in the country, other technology giants are also choosing the country as a brand new destination or for expansion plans.

Following Intel over a decade ago, numerous companies from various countries like LG, Samsung, Foxconn, and Kyocera have already carried out huge projects in Vietnam, which enabled it to become a more promising land for the worlds other leading technology producers, explained Phan Huu Thang, former director general of the FIA.

Foxconn, which has placed investment in Vietnam since 2007, started with small-sized projects in the northern provinces of Bac Ninh, Bac Giang, and Vinh Phuc. Last year it expanded its project in Bac Ninh, building a 600ha factory here, with further plans to pour $325 million in building affordable apartments for workers across three provinces.

Elsewhere, Winstron NeWeb Corporation from Taiwan, specialising in high-quality services for communications products, has just broken ground on its $300-million factory in the northern province of Ha Nams Dong Van 3 Industrial Zone.

Promoting the achievements in mobilising foreign direct investment (FDI) in recent years, the FIA is doing utmost to innovate and call for more investors into the country, especially in the context of restructuring supply chains across the world.

Do Nhat Hoang, the current FIA director general, said that collaboration with banks in mobilising FDI, especially catching up with the wave of relocations, is the most efficient method at present. Vietnam welcomed investors of all sizes providing that they bring good investments into the country.

Despite the unpredictable nature of COVID-19 and difficulties in transporting overseas, numerous online investment promotion events or bilateral talks with overseas investors have been taking place. These have helped to facilitate almost $20 billion in registered investment into Vietnam over the first eight months of 2020.

In addition to the latest movements of technology giants such as Pegatron and Apple, Millennium Corporation is planning to develop a $15-billion super gas power project in the south-central province of Khanh Hoa, while Exxon Mobil has also committed to carrying out billion-dollar projects in the country.

Numerous investors are seeking large-scale projects around $500 million or even several billions of US dollars in Vietnam which are currently under negotiation, Hoang said, while reaffirming that Vietnam has already prepared for the needs of investors including land, power, human resources, and strong and relevant policies.

Of these, a transparent investment climate and attractive incentives are most important to lure more giants. After issuing the amended Law on Investment in June, some legal documents which facilitate foreign investors are being compiled quickly, including a decree cutting 60 per cent of total conditional business lines and sectors off-limits for foreign investors, as well as a special project to orient and receive more relocating FDI after the pandemic. These should be submitted to the government soon, the FIA representative said.

MPI Minister Nguyen Chi Dung said that along with proactively approaching corporations that plan to relocate or restructure supply chains, an FDI task force has been providing general advice and proposing the most outstanding incentives to negotiate not only with Apple and its suppliers, but also more leading technology giants worldwide in order to entice them to build facilities in the country.
Im thrilled to be joining WireCo as its CFO. I was attracted to WireCo because of its reputation as a market-leading manufacturer of mission-critical steel and synthetic ropes and specialty wire. This is an extraordinary opportunity to join a world class industrial organization with global brands

WIRECO WORLDGROUP ANNOUNCES DANIEL VINTON AS NEW CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

WireCo WorldGroup (WireCo) announced today that Daniel Vinton has been appointed Chief Financial Officer effective October 19, 2020.

Mr. Vinton joins WireCo from PerkinElmer, where he is Vice President and CFO of its Discovery & Analytical Solutions segment, a global provider of instruments, consumables and other laboratory solutions for the pharmaceutical, agriculture, industrial, life science and food industries. Prior to joining PerkinElmer in 2017, Mr. Vinton spent 18 years at General Electric in multiple locations in North America and Europe, most recently holding various CFO roles within GE Current. Prior to GE Current, Mr. Vinton held several management positions at GE Aviation, including overseeing supply chain cost management and financial planning & analysis. He began his career with GE as part of its Financial Management Program (FMP) and worked for GEs Corporate Audit Staff (CAS). He is an Edge Certified Six Sigma & Lean leader.

Mr. Vinton holds an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and a Bachelor of Arts in Literature and Business Administration from the University of Vermont. He and his family will be relocating to the greater Kansas City area from Boston.

Daniel Vinton commented, Im thrilled to be joining WireCo as its CFO. I was attracted to WireCo because of its reputation as a market-leading manufacturer of mission-critical steel and synthetic ropes and specialty wire. This is an extraordinary opportunity to join a world class industrial organization with global brand recognition.

Regarding Mr. Vintons appointment, Keith White, WireCos CEO said, On behalf of the board and management team, we are excited that Dan will be joining WireCo as its Chief Financial Officer. Dan has a strong background of driving value creation through commercial and operational excellence at PerkinElmer and General Electric, which makes him a strong addition to the WireCo management team.

Mr. Vinton will succeed Keith Hyder, WireCos current CFO, who will be leaving to pursue other opportunities.

###

About WireCo WorldGroup

WireCo WorldGroup markets value-added products under several brands that are recognized throughout the world and used in a wide range of market applications. WireCo WorldGroup is headquartered in Prairie Village, Kansas with manufacturing plants, distribution facilities and research and development centers worldwide.
Actor Adil Hussain has bagged the Best Actor award at the Indo German Film Week in Berlin, for two of his recent performances - Pareeksha and Nirvana Inn. Prakash Jha directed Pareeksha while Vijay Jayapal had helmed Nirvana Inn.

Adil was most recently seen as Buchchi - a rickshaw-puller making all efforts to ensure best education for his child in Prakash Jhas film. Nirvana Inn is yet to release. Adil wrote in two separate tweets, Thrilled to have received the Best Actor Award for the role of Buchchi Paswan in Pareeksha @Pareeksha2020 at the #IndoGermanFilmWeek in Berlin last night. Thank You for this recognition. I share this Award with dearest @prakashjha27 . And of course with the entire team.

The Award for Best Actor at the #IndoGermanFilmWeek, Berlin Last Night is for my two roles as Buchchi and Jogi in @Pareeksha2020 and @NirvanaInnFilm Director @Pareeksha2020 and @iam_vj I am sorry that I hadnt Mentioned Both Films in earlier tweet , he added. Manoj Bajpayee was among the first ones to congratulate Adil. Congratulations @_AdilHussai, Manoj tweeted and Adil quickly thanked him.

The Award for Best Actor at the #IndoGermanFilmWeek, Berlin Last Night is for my two roles as Buchchi and Jogi in @Pareeksha2020 and @NirvanaInnFilm Director @Pareeksha2020 and @iam_vj

I am sorry that I hadn't Mentioned Both Films in earlier tweet .   Adil hussain (@_AdilHussain) October 1, 2020

Talking about the artists in his film Pareeksha, Prakash Jha had said in an interview with Hindustan Times, In terms of creativity, Adil brings a lot to the table. I do not work with a hard set rule. We held workshops so that we build upon what we have. Each artist on sets brings his own creative inputs - Adil, Priyanka, Shubham and everyone else. The final output is something with everyones insight. Adil is a sensitive actor and I enjoyed working with all of them.

Also read: Amitabh Bachchan recalls when he couldnt afford 2, shares emotional childhood memory

Adil, who has worked in several critically acclaimed films, received National Film Awards (Special Jury) at the 2017 National Film Awards for Hotel Salvation and Maj Rati Keteki.

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State Rep. Robin Smith and State Sen. Bo Watson on Thursday announced they will reintroduce legislation for the 2021 legislative session to end the practice of surprise or unexpected medical billing in Tennessee.

This proposal removes patients from the process of resolving billing disputes between providers and payers and directly affects citizens with insurance who receive services provided by out-of-network providers in emergency situations.

This solution will realign the role of patients and providers within our current health care marketplace to prioritize them, not insurance companies, said Chairman Smith. Tennesseans shouldnt have to worry about a surprise or unexpected medical bill, and this legislation will eliminate this practice that often reflects network battles outside patient awareness.

Under the bill, payers would also be required to make an initial payment to the provider; should a billing dispute arise, the Department of Commerce & Insurance will establish a dispute resolution process between insurance companies and the billing healthcare provider without patient involvement.

Too many Tennesseans have been hit with costly surprise medical bills at a time when they are most vulnerable," said Senator Watson. "Like President Trump, we believe it is time to end this practice. This legislation helps to protect patients from financial strain by establishing a process that keeps patients out of billing disputes so they can focus on their health rather than unexpected medical bills.

The 112th Tennessee General Assembly officially begins at noon on Jan. 12, 2021.




Photo: Contributed

They say love conquers all, but not according to the RCMP and border agents.

A 49-year-old man has been arrested and had his boat impounded after it was determined he crossed into Canadian waters from the United States so he could visit his 50-year-old girlfriend from Surrey.

The Canada/U.S. border remains closed to all non-essential travel during the Covid-19 crisis.

But that didn't stop a U.S man from boating all the way from Bellingham, Wash. to see his girlfriend.

The incident happened on September 27 as RCMP members along with the ShipRider program were patrolling along the US/Canada marine border in the Southern Gulf Islands region when they encountered a Seasport cabin cruiser out of Bellingham, Wash. anchored in the Crescent Beach Channel.

The two occupants of the vessel were identified as a 49-year-old U.S. man from Bellingham and a 50-year-old woman from Surrey. Investigators discovered that the man had left his home port that morning and picked up his girlfriend at Elgin Park Marina in Surrey. The man had failed to report his crossing into Canada and did not meet the entry requirements under the current quarantine restrictions.

The man has since been arrested under the Customs Act and his vessel was seized for failure to report. A search of the man's vessel confirmed that the trip was simply personal in nature and no other criminality was involved. The RCMP fined the man $1,000 for contravening the Quarantine Act and he was released without further charges. It didn't end there, however, he also had to pay an additional $1,000 for the return of his vessel and was ordered to leave Canada immediately.

The woman was taken back to the mainland at Crescent Beach Marina where she had to find her own ride back to her vehicle.
Activist Akhil Gogoi was granted bail on Thursday by a special court here in one of the two cases being probed by the NIA in connection with his allege drole in the violent protests against the Citizenship(Amendment) Act in Assam last year. Gogoi was granted bail after five days of hearing in the case, which was filed at the Chabua police station and later transferred to the NIA.

NIA special judge Pranjal Das granted bail to Gogoi on a surety of Rs 30,000 and routine conditions, including not tampering with evidence and influencing witnesses. The special court on August 7 had rejected his bail plea in the other case, which was registered at Chandmari police station. He then filed a petition challenging it in the Gauhati High Court, which admitted the matter on September 28and fixed October 13 as the next date of hearing.

Advocate Santanu Borthakur appeared for Gogoi while SC Kayal represented NIA as its standing counsel. Gogoi, the leader of the Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti(KMSS), was arrested on December 12 last year from Jorhat, during the height of the anti-CAA protests in the state, as a"preventive measure" in view of the deteriorating law and order situation and his three associates were taken into custody the next day.

They were later handed over to the NIA and booked under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for their alleged role in the violent protest and possible links with Maoists. While in custody, they were also arrested in a number of old cases registered across different police stations in the state but they have got bail in most of these cases.

His three associates  Dhaijya Konwar, Bittu Sonowal and Manash Konwar  are now out on bail in the NIA case. Gogoi was granted bail on July 16 by the Gauhati High Court in the three cases filed by the Assam Police related to the burning of a post office, circle office and a branch of United Bank of India at Chabua in Dibrugarh district during anti-CAA protests.
Abbie Chatfield tried her hand at surfing on Thursday, wearing a purple bikini and a rash shirt for the occasion.

The 25-year-old former Bachelor hopeful enrolled in a day course with Get Wet Surf School on the Gold Coast.

But after asking her instructors for their honest opinions after her lesson, Abbie discovered her talents may lay elsewhere.

Surfer girl: Abbie Chatfield tried her hand at surfing on Thursday. The 25-year-old former Bachelor hopeful enrolled in a day course with Get Wet Surf School on the Gold Coast

Despite thinking she 'did okay' out in the water, Abbie asked instructors Sami and Blake for a 'review', filming the whole interaction for Instagram Stories.

'She's as good as she is at surfing as she is at dancing,' deadpanned Sami, prompting Abbie to respond, 'Okay, bit of shade, but that's fine.'

Blake said a photo of him facepalming himself while out in the surf with Abbie summed up the experience for him.

Riding waves: After asking her instructors for their honest opinions after her lesson, Abbie discovered her talents may lay elsewhere

Helping hands: Despite thinking she 'did okay' out in the water, Abbie asked instructors Sami (centre) and Blake (right) for a 'review', filming the whole interaction for Instagram Stories

'She's as good as she is at surfing as she is at dancing,' deadpanned Sami, prompting Abbie to respond, 'Okay, bit of shade, but that's fine'

Taking it all in her stride, the reality star laughed at their assessments of her surfing ability, as photos of her out in the water flashed up on a screen behind them.

The surf school also posted a series of photos of Abbie during her lesson, and said what she lacked in skill, she made up for in 'energy and enthusiasm'.

'Such a pleasure meeting the beautiful @abbiechatfield today,' they captioned the photos.

Practice makes perfect: In one photo, Abbie was seen practicing to stand up on her surfboard on a patch of grass, before taking it into the water

That bad? Blake said a photo of him facepalming himself while out in the surf with Abbie summed up the experience for him

'Your energy and enthusiasm was contagious. Can't wait to get you back out there'.

In one photo, Abbie was seen practicing to stand up on her surfboard on a patch of grass, before taking it into the water.

Other photos showed the reality star looking slightly terrified as she concentrated on staying upright on her board.
Manufacturing Talk Radio - The Voice of Manufacturing Globally President Obama issued a presidential proclamation declaring the first Friday of October each year as National Manufacturing Day.

The New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Partnership is hosting a virtual Manufacturing Day Event on October 2, 2020 when manufacturing is highlighted each year on the first Friday in October. Keynote speakers include New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, U.S. Representative Josh Gottheimer (D- 5th District), New Jersey State Senate President Steve Sweeney, State Senator Linda Greenstein (D  14th District), State Senator Steve Oroho (R- 24th District), Mr. Kevin Cummings, CEO of Investors Bank, and NJMEP CEO Mr. John Kennedy who will address more than 10,000 manufacturers across the state of New Jersey and over 250,000 manufacturing employees, to recognize and honor one of the backbone industries of America. Manufacturing Talk Radio, a podcast by Jacket Media Co., will broadcast via live video feed the New Jersey event beginning at 8:50 a.m. of Friday October 2.

Manufacturing Day was initially held in 2011 on the first Friday in October and was jointly created by the Fabricators and Manufacturers Association, The National Association of Manufacturers, The Department of Commerce National Standards and Technology Manufacturing Extension Partnership, and the Manufacturing Institute to bring attention to manufacturings impact on the U.S. economy and raise awareness of its transformation from and industry perceived as dark, dirty and dangerous to the advanced Industry 4.0 careers in the dynamic and digital businesses across the country. From just 600 open house events at manufacturing plants in 2012, Manufacturing Day has grown to thousands of plant tours and presentations from headquarter and production facilities across the U.S. In 2014, President Obama issued a presidential proclamation declaring the first Friday of October each year as National Manufacturing Day.

Manufacturing Talk Radio hosts Lewis A. Weiss and Tim Grady will cover the days events and provide context around the importance of Manufacturing Day. Manufacturing Talk Radio has been broadcasting industry-leading information with thought leaders and industry experts since November of 2013 and is one of the principal podcast platforms covering the many sectors that make up manufacturing in the U.S. and employ more than 40 million people when that measurement includes all employees working for manufacturers and all upstream suppliers that provide raw materials and components to the production facilities throughout the country.

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About JacketMediaCo: Jacket Media Co (jacketmediaco.com) is a media content producer of podcasts and publisher of the Manufacturing Outlook ezine. Podcasts include Manufacturing Talk Radio, The WAM Podcast for Women And Manufacturing/Business, Manufacturing Matters with Cliff Waldman, Hazards Girls with Emily Soloby, Wheres Willie with William Miller, and Fulltime with Amy Nicklaus. Jacket Media has produced over 600 episodes and dozens of industry videos, syndicated through the C-Suite Network, iTunes, Spreaker, Blubrry, Stitcher, and other podcast listening platforms.

About NJMEP: NJMEP is a private, notfor-profit organization that improves the profitability and competitiveness of New Jerseys manufacturers. Backed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), NJMEP enables organizations to enhance their productivity and efficiencies, reduce costs, and improve employee performance. For more than 20 years, NJMEP has used its extensive network of connections and proven track record of success to help manufacturers adapt to the latest innovative technologies and best practices to realize more than $4.16 billion in value. Our services are categorized into the following three areas: Operational Excellence, Innovation and Growth Strategies, and Workforce Development. NJMEP also has a signature philanthropic program, Manufacturing Cares, which is designed to provide a platform for manufacturers to give back to the community by pooling efforts to increase our impact.
KINGSTON, ON / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / Delta Resources Limited ("Delta" or "the Company") (TSXV:DLTA)(OTCBB:GOLHF)(Frankfurt:6G01) is pleased to announce that it has completed a non-brokered private placement (as announced September 2 and 17, 2020), by issuing 4,453,569 units of the Company at a price of $0.35 per unit, for gross proceeds of $1,558,749. Each unit consists of one common share and one-half of a common share purchase warrant exercisable for up to 24 months from closing at $0.50.

The net proceeds of the financing will primarily be used for exploration including drill campaigns at its Delta-1 and Delta-2 properties in Thunder Bay, Ontario and Chibougamau, Quebec and general working capital. Any shares issued are subject to a four-month plus one day hold period.

In connection with this private placement, the Company has paid cash commissions in the aggregate amount of $12,127.50. As additional consideration, the Company also issued an aggregate of 34,650 non-transferable compensation warrants (the "Compensation Warrants"). Each Compensation Warrant is exercisable to acquire one common share of the Company at an exercise price of $0.35 at any time in whole or in part for a period of 24 months following the closing of the Offering.

The Company is pleased to have received significant support from four Quebec-based institutional funds as follows:

SIDEX L.P. (" SIDEX ") : SIDEX is an initiative of the Quebec government and the Fonds de solidarite FTQ Its mission is to invest in companies engaged in mineral exploration in Quebec in order to diversify the province's mineral base, promote innovation and new entrepreneurs.

The Societe de Development de la Baie-James ( " SDBJ ") : SDBJ is an organization created under the James Bay Region Development Act adopted by Quebec National Assembly in 1971. The SDBJ has been in existence for over 45 years with a mission to promote, from a sustainable development perspective, the economic development, improvement and exploitation of natural resources other than hydroelectric resources in the Baie-James territory. The SDBJ can also foster, support and participation in the implementation of projects having these objectives. http://www.sdbj.gouv.qc.ca

Capital Regional et Cooperatif Desjardins: Nearly 45 years strong, Desjardins Capital has a mission to value, support and nurture the best of Quebec entrepreneurship. With assets under management of C$2.4 billion as of June 30 th , 2020, Desjardins Capital helps contribute to the longevity of some 530 companies, cooperatives and funds in various sectors from across Quebec. In addition to helping to maintain and create more than 80,000* jobs, this subsidiary of Desjardins Group offers business owners access to a large business network and supports their business growth. For more information, visit our website or our LinkedIn page. * Data as at December 31, 2019 " For many years, Desjardins Capital has been supporting mining exploration companies in the Nord-du-Quebec region to ensure the longevity of Quebec flagship businesses." declared Yves Calloc'h, acting Chief Operating Officer of Desjardins Capital.

The Fonds regionaux de solidarite FTQ have been participating in the economic development of Quebec's regions for over 24 years. Created in 1996, the Fonds regionaux have invested just over $1 billion in 1,400 companies, helping to create, maintain or protect close to 52,000 jobs.

"We are very pleased to close this hard-dollar financing at such a price within a year of acquiring our Delta-1 and Delta-2 properties." says Andre Tessier, President and CEO of Delta. "We're especially proud of the recognition and support provided to Delta by these four solid Quebec-based institutions. We're very grateful and are looking forward to the upcoming drill campaign".

"We are so pleased with the level of interest in this financing at such an early stage of Delta's development. Initially we had planned to raise 1 Million dollars, however, we had easily surpassed that target within days of our initial announcement on September 2. This is truly a testament to the quality of our properties in Quebec and Ontario, the efficient and methodical development of the Chibougamau, Quebec property whereby we have such a large number of highly prospective drill targets thanks to the tireless work of Andre Tessier and Michel Chapdelaine and the excitement ahead of announcing the details of our first Quebec drill campaign." stated Frank Candido, Chairman of the Board of Delta.

Insiders of the Company subscribed for a total amount of $53,250 or 152,143 units. Participation by these insiders constitutes a related party transaction as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The issuance of securities to the related parties is exempt from the formal valuation requirements of Section 5.4 of MI 61-101 pursuant to Subsection 5.5(b) of MI 61-101 and exempt from the minority shareholder approval requirements of Section 5.6 of MI 61-101 pursuant to Subsection 5.7(b) of MI 61-101. The Company did not file a material change report 21 days prior to the closing of the Offering as the details of the participation of these insiders of the Company had not been confirmed at that time.

About Delta Resources Limited

Delta Resources Limited is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on growing shareholder value through the exploration of two very high-potential gold and base-metal projects in Canada.

DELTA-1, located 50km west of Thunder Bay, Ontario where a 1000m drilling program was completed in Nov. 2019, testing the newly discovered Eureka Gold prospect. Results so far show very wide intercepts of low-grade gold in a km-scale alteration zone.

DELTA-2, located 35km SE of the Chibougamau, Quebec, where preliminary due diligence and prospecting work discovered two new gold occurrences where grab samples returned up to 55,8 g/t Au and 11,45 g/t Au.

Delta also owns a 100% interest in the Bellechasse-Timmins gold deposit in SE Quebec, which contains a 43-101 gold resource of 171,000 oz @1.83 g/t gold (indicated) and an additional 95,000 oz @1.36 g/t gold (inferred). On July 3, 2020, Delta signed an agreement with Yorkton Ventures Inc for the sale of the Bellechasse-Timmins project for $1,7M payable over 15 months of signing.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DELTA RESOURCES LIMITED.

Andre C. Tessier

President, CEO and Director

www.deltaresources.ca

We seek safe harbor. 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 TSX Venture Exchange has not approved nor disapproved of the information contained herein.

For Further Information:

Contact Delta Resources Limited

Frank Candido, Chairman

Tel: 514-969-5530

fcandido@deltaresources.ca

or

Andre Tessier, President and CEO

Tel: 613-328-1581

atessier@deltaresources.ca

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Information

Some statements contained in this news release are " "forward looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. Forward looking information include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the use of proceeds of the non-brokered private placement and payment of the debt settlements. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes" or variations of such words and phrases (including negative or grammatical variations) or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved" or the negative connotation thereof. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking information is inherently uncertain and involves risks, assumptions and uncertainties that could cause actual facts to differ materially. There can be no assurance that future developments affecting the Company will be those anticipated by management. The forward-looking information contained in this press release constitutes management's current estimates, as of the date of this press release, with respect to the matters covered thereby. We expect that these estimates will change as new information is received. While we may elect to update these estimates at any time, we do not undertake to update any estimate at any particular time or in response to any particular event.

SOURCE: Delta Resources Limited

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/608588/Delta-Resources-Announces-Closing-of-1558749-Private-Placement
Wits researchers today publish major findings from the ADVANCE research study, conducted in central Johannesburg, looking at the potency and safety of SA's commonly used antiretroviral treatment regimens

The study enrolled over 1000 participants, recruited from routine HIV services in and around the inner city area of Hillbrow, and analysed two of the current Department of Health antiretroviral regimens, recommended in the 2019 ART guidelines, and a third regimen favoured by higher-income countries. The newer regimens appeared to have side effect and resistance benefits over older regimens, and potential cost benefits, but little research had been done on African populations with them till now.

All three regimens were very potent and well tolerated by patients, however, the newer regimens containing dolutegravir (DTG) and tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) demonstrated a large increase in weight, especially in women.

After 96 weeks of treatment, the percentage of people with viral suppression was 79% in the TAF/emtricitabine (FTC)+DTG arm, 78% in the TDF (tenofovir disoproxil fumarate)/FTC+DTG arm and 74% in the TDF/FTC/EFV (efavirenz) arm.

There were no significant differences in overall efficacy between the three treatments tested.

In terms of weight gain, after 96 weeks of treatment, men gained 5.4 kg in the TAF/FTC+DTG arm, 3.6 kg in the TDF/FTC+DTG arm, and 1.1 kg in the TDF/FTC/EFV arm.

For women, at the same time point, the weight gain was 8.1 kg in the TAF/FTC+DTG arm, 4.8 kg in the TDF/FTC+DTG arm, and 3.2 kg in the TDF/FTC/EFV arm.

The treatment emergent obesity for women at week 96 was 28% for those on TAF/FTC+DTG (5% for men), 18% for those on TDF/FTC+DTG (4% for men), and 12% for those on TDF/FTC/EFV (3% for men).

Dr Simiso Sokhela, lead clinician on the study, presented additional results in a high-profile oral presentation at the 23rd International AIDS Conference in July. She commented, "We are concerned about the weight gain and body composition changes which are more severe in women, and we have predicted new risk of associated diabetes and other complications, especially when taking both TAF and DTG together. The 96 week results supports the WHO treatment guidelines which reserve TAF only for patients with osteoporosis or impaired renal function."

Professor Francois Venter, head of Ezintsha at Wits, added: "This was a huge and complex international collaboration, and I am proud of the team achieving such a high quality result. We thought we had found the magic bullet for our patients, but it is clear there is much more work to be done on antiretroviral safety. It is imperative we do these studies locally, as toxicity seems to vary significantly by population. One of the most worrying data points were that the women in the study were actually heavier than the men before starting treatment, a stark reminder that South Africa has a major obesity problem among women, made worse with these new drugs. It's a headache for public health programmes that have delivered HIV treatment so effectively in the last decade, and we need to be looking to the future for alternatives that are safer."

The study team is considering the best options for patients to reduce their risk of long-term co-morbidities, and will be consulting with patient groups, researchers and other expert groups to get guidance.

The results support the current recommendation from the World Health Organization to use dolutegravir as first-line treatment for HIV, with efavirenz as an alternative option. However the results suggest that dolutegravir should be combined with TDF/FTC, which is associated with suppression of weight gain, and not with the newer combination of TAF/FTC, which is associated with excess weight gain and clinical obesity, especially in women.

South Africa has the largest antiretroviral programme in the world, with over 6 million people on treatment. The programme has resulted in a large increase in South African life expectancy and it has contributed to a large decrease in new HIV transmissions over the last few years. Of concern, South Africa has an obesity epidemic, with related diabetes the second commonest cause of death in the country, and both are implicated in COVID-19 severity. The South African government has been briefed on the results, as has the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority, the Food and Drug Administration, and the World Health Organization. The results of ADVANCE have informed international and local HIV treatment guidelines.

###

About the ADVANCE Study

The ADVANCE study was conceived by a team of research collaborators from Ezintsha, the Clinton Health Access Initiative, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, ViiV Healthcare, HIV i-Base, Mylan, the University of Liverpool, and Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, with subsequent input from ViiV Healthcare and Gilead Sciences, as well as the Department of Health, Treatment Action Campaign, WHO and others. This study is led by South African researchers from Wits University, in an international alliance with public health and clinical researchers, the South African government, activist groups, and pharmaceutical manufacturers, in a programme linked to community education programmes about the new drugs across the region.
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The initial public offering of Likhitha Infrastructure has seen a good response especially from retail and high net worth individuals. The issue has been subscribed 8.4 times so far, on October 1, the last day of bidding.

The Rs 61.2-crore public issue has received bids for 4.3 crore equity shares against an offer size of 51 lakh equity shares, the data available on the exchanges showed.

Retail investors continued to provide strong support to the issue as their portion set aside has subscribed 21.13 times.

The reserved category of non-institutional investors witnessed 5.4 times subscription and that of qualified institutional buyers 45.3 percent.

The offer comprises a fresh issue of 51 lakh shares and after the issue, promoters' shareholding will be reduced to around 74 percent.

The price band for the issue, which closes today, has been fixed at Rs 117-120 per share.

Likhitha Infrastructure IPO: 10 key things you should know

Hyderabad-headquartered oil and gas pipeline infrastructure service provider is going to utilise issue proceeds for working capital requirements and general corporate purposes.

Brokerages recommended subscribing the issue given the expected expansion of oil & gas pipeline network and strong return on net worth (RoNW).

"At the price band of Rs 117-120, the Likhitha issue comes priced at a PE of 8.83x FY20EPS and P/BV of 2.51X based on its NAV Rs 47.8 per share in FY20. For the last three years, the company has posted an average EPS of Rs 11.7 and Return on Net worth of 35.1 percent. While Likhitha will be the first mover in the segment, there is no average industry P/E is available," KR Choksey.

The brokerage believes the recent government initiatives have provided profitable opportunities for work execution company like Likhitha.

India's pipeline network is expected to expand to around 35,000 km in the next 5-6 years, based on which the company is also planning to expand its pipeline laying execution capacity to a range of 250-300 km per year. The company has a strong project execution track record in the last 20 years, said the brokerage which recommended subscribe to the issue with a long-term perspective.

Hem Securities also recommended subscribing the issue as the company has established track record in executing pipeline infrastructure projects and O&M services have long-standing relationship with customers. "Also the company has shown strong financial performance with almost zero debt on its book. In addition to this company's order book is healthy which gives strong revenue visibility going forward."
"When I opened Rand Realty in 1984, my vision was to build a brokerage devoted to agents and homeowners alike," said Rand. "Howard Hanna is a company that shares that mission. Because of that, and because of our shared experiences as family-owned businesses and industry innovators, I am very excited about the future of Rand Realty, now Howard Hanna | Rand Realty. By combining our expertise, we can create an even more exceptional real estate experience."

The announcement finalizes a partnership between Rand Realty, the No. 1 real estate brokerage firm in the Greater Hudson Valley, and the nation's largest independently owned brokerage firm, Howard Hanna. This partnership also advances Howard Hanna's strategic growth plan to be one of the fastest growing real estate companies in the United States.

"This union brings together leading real estate industry professionals from two of the most respected and trusted family-owned companies in the business and blends them into one unified industry leader," said Casey.

The Rand family will continue on with the newly announced company as Howard Hanna | Rand Realty. The new partnership with Rand Realty is a major milestone in Howard Hanna's strategic growth and plans, which have progressed steadily since 2015. The partnership also marks a major step for Howard Hanna in lower New York state, after successfully establishing itself in upstate New York through previous mergers.

"Howard Hanna is very excited to partner with Rand Realty and for our teams to work together to continue to do great things in New York," said Howard W. "Hoby" Hanna, IV, President of Howard Hanna Real Estate Services. "At Howard Hanna, we've been on a focused growth strategy since the early 2000s. Our plan has always been to partner with like-minded brokerage firms where we believe two cultures and philosophies can mesh and blend together. As ambitious as we have been in New York state, we knew we would only enter the downstate market if we could create a partnership with the Rand company family and agents, who we have trusted and admired. This partnership will allow us to continue to expand and grow in the New York housing market, and we are very excited to welcome the Rand team and offices into the Howard Hanna family."

The latest partnership adds to the strength of both family-owned real estate companies in downstate New York. Rand Realty finished 2019 with a closed sales volume of more than $2 billion and over 6,000 homes sold in total, according to a research report produced by REAL Trends in March 2020. In New York state, Howard Hanna finished 2019 with a closed sales volume of more than $5 billion and over 29,000 homes sold in total.

Howard Hanna's total sales volume across its multiple regions totaled more than $22 billion, as well as a total of over 100,000 houses sold, according to a research report produced by REAL Trends in March 2020.

Rand Realty, now Howard Hanna | Rand Realty, has more than 1,000 residential real estate sales associates, as well as a commercial real estate company (Rand Commercial) and Hudson United Home Services, which provides residential mortgage lending, title services, and personal lines and commercial insurance. Its 28 offices serve Bergen County, Passaic County, Hudson County, Morris County, and Essex County in New Jersey; as well as Rockland County, Orange County, Westchester County, Bronx, Sullivan County, Ulster County, and Putnam County in New York.

"Howard Hanna Real Estate Services is one of the largest real estate companies in the country, and partnering with them marks an exciting milestone in the history of Rand Realty," added Matt Rand, CEO of Rand Realty. "Our two companies carry extremely similar philosophies, particularly regarding our focus on our agents and our local communities. We are also each dedicated to providing the resources homeowners need to navigate their real estate transaction in one convenient location. This partnership will allow us to grow and perfect this one-location shopping experience."

Howard Hanna had previously become the largest New York state brokerage after merging with Nothnagle Realtors and RealtyUSA in 2017. Howard Hanna also prides itself on its one-stop-shopping offerings, which aim to guide homeowners through their entire buying or selling experience. Programs such as the 100% Money Back Guarantee are also exclusively available through the Howard Hanna company.

Moving forward, Dan Rand, President of Hudson United Home Services, expects that this new partnership will help both companies continue to make the entire real estate transaction experience as smooth and easy as possible for homeowners  a shared mission that he and Howard Hanna leaders take pride in.

"It's our pleasure to welcome Rand Realty to our growing family, and we're looking forward to working with them as we continue to invest in new technologies and innovative programs that benefit homeowners," added Hoby Hanna. "Together, we will continue to provide best-in-class service, local expertise, innovative technologies, and a client-first philosophy."

About Howard Hanna: Howard Hanna Real Estate Services is the #1 family-owned and -operated independent broker in the U.S.A. The full-service real estate company has 325 real estate, mortgage, insurance, title and escrow service offices across 10 states, including Allen Tate Realtors in the Carolinas, with more than 11,000 sales associates and staff, including many of the industry's top-producing real estate agents. For more information, visit www.HowardHanna.com.

SOURCE Howard Hanna Real Estate Services

Related Links

http://www.howardhanna.com


Even when a sudden cardiac arrest happens inside a top hospital, where a code blue team is readily available, most people won't survive.

This year, while researchers continued exploring how to improve dismal cardiac arrest survival rates, clinicians started noticing a new population of patients who seemed to be experiencing cardiac arrest quite often: those hospitalized for COVID-19 infection.

This sparked an observational study led by experts at the Michigan Medicine Frankel Cardiovascular Center and Brigham and Women's Hospital that leveraged data from 68 hospitals across the United States, just published in The BMJ.

Researchers reviewed data from more than 5,000 U.S. patients, including those at Michigan Medicine, who were hospitalized in the intensive care unit for COVID-19. Fourteen percent of them experienced cardiac arrest within two weeks of being admitted to the ICU.

"Cardiac arrest is common in older patients with COVID-19, and survival rates after an arrest are poor," says lead study author Salim Hayek, M.D., an assistant professor of internal medicine at Michigan Medicine and a cardiologist at the Frankel CVC. "This is the first multicenter study to investigate in-hospital cardiac arrest in people with COVID-19 infection."

Along with older patients, those more likely to experience cardiac arrest included Black patients as well as those admitted to hospitals with fewer ICU beds.

"One of the more interesting findings was that patients who were admitted to smaller hospitals were more likely to experience cardiac arrest," says co-senior author David Leaf, M.D., MMSc, an assistant professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School. "Further, admission to a smaller hospital was independently associated with an increased risk of death among those who received CPR."

The researchers encourage medical centers to consider how they'll manage high rates of cardiac arrest in their sickest patients with COVID-19, especially if future patient surges occur.

"In general, only around one-fifth of people survive in-hospital cardiac arrest," says co-senior author Brahmajee Nallamothu, M.D., M.P.H., a professor of internal medicine at Michigan Medicine and an interventional cardiologist at the Frankel CVC, who has extensively studied in-hospital arrest procedures and outcomes.

"The numbers for patients with COVID-19 look worse; however, younger patients who receive CPR have reasonable survival rates compared with other critically-ill patients, though less than 3% of people older than 80 who received CPR lived long enough to go home from the hospital."

CPR for patients with COVID-19

Some have questioned whether patients with COVID-19 should be given CPR. In addition to concerns about the effectiveness, there's also worry about the chances of health care providers becoming infected and being taken out of circulation because COVID-19 can spread during resuscitation. Hospitals have strict protocols in place that require providers be suited up in personal protective equipment before getting close to patients with a confirmed or suspected COVID-19 infection, but there is still a risk.

Despite these concerns, Hayek and colleagues found that all patients who did not have a do-not-resuscitate order received CPR. About a third of patients older than 80 received CPR, while more than three-quarters of those younger than age 45 did.

However, only 12% of those patients given CPR survived.

"These data should encourage people to have more discussions about end-of-life wishes, including decisions about resuscitation, ideally before anyone even becomes severely sick," Hayek says.

That's because in COVID-19, unexpected complications can arise quickly.

Leaf adds that the acute severity of illness may have played a larger role in the cardiac arrest rates than existing heart disease, which wasn't independently associated with arrest rates, such as in the case of one previously healthy COVID-19 patient without a cardiac history who experienced cardiac arrest four times.

Other common complications of COVID-19 include blood clots and acute kidney injury.

And going home from the hospital after surviving cardiac arrest and COVID-19 isn't the end of the health struggles; it's simply an initial victory.

Researchers say, in the small sample size of patients with COVID-19 who were able to leave the hospital after receiving CPR, nearly half of them (20 out of 48 people) went home with a moderate to severe neurological impairment.

This is the latest project to come from the Study of the Treatment and Outcomes in Critically Ill Patients with COVID-19 (STOP-COVID) group led by Harvard's Leaf, which includes detailed data on patients with COVID-19 infection who were admitted to ICUs at one of 68 hospitals across the country between March and June.

"It's impressive that this group led by David and Salim got together under stressful times to put together such a wonderful resource for asking these real world questions," Nallamothu says. "It has provided those of us studying resuscitation in other contexts with invaluable information."

Along with individual researchers' support from the National Institutes of Health, the Frankel CVC funded this project in its pivot to address the pandemic with the COVID-19 Impact Researcher Ignitor Fund.

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We always knew a second wave was coming. No surprise that it came.

But heres the question that keeps coming back: What should we have done, and what still must be done, to minimize a virus that almost inevitably goes viral?

Thats what Kathleen Wynne was asking herself this week, which prompted her to pose the same question to her successor as premier, Doug Ford. In a rare and remarkable exchange between the 25th and 26th premiers of Ontario on the floor of the legislature, she put it to him:

I appreciate the complexity of what the premier is up against right now, Wynne mused from her perch in the far corner of the chamber.

I was actually thinking last night, What I would do if I were in his shoes.

Wynne began by conceding that we all understand the economic imperatives. But why couldnt Ford go further, faster  closing casinos, for example, instead of enabling gamblers to take health risks against all odds?

A year or two ago, the premier would have pounced on his predecessor  mocking her electoral loss and revelling in his populist triumph. Now, at midterm and mid-pandemic, a more subdued Ford thanked her for the question.

And stressed, as his fellow Tories listened quietly, that she had earned the right to second-guess him.

She understands the pressures of this job, he conceded. You know something? I could never get upset with the former premier, because shes walked a mile in my shoes. She understands it.

Few were in the chamber to hear this unusually respectful debate. Most MPPs seats were emptied by social distancing, the public galleries closed.

But their dignified disagreement is well worth recording. It was a quintessentially Canadian counterpoint to the hyperpartisanship plaguing America, a reminder that politics need not always be about one-upmanship and put-downs.

Wynne flagged weaknesses in the reopening plan raised by outside experts, from crowded classrooms to potential hospital overcrowding as caseloads surge. Ford countered that the provinces 40,000 daily tests are second only to Illinois in North America, so the rising case count is only part of the story (and, as he keeps reminding people, infection rates in all other large jurisdictions, from Quebec to California and New York, are far worse).

Glass half-empty or half-full? Fair question.

I appreciate the question from the former premier. We do listen to the chief medical officer of health,  the deputy chief medical officer and the health team. Thats what Im going to have to do, and I know the former premier would do the exact same thing.

Fords response raises an interesting question: Would Wynnes Liberal government have done things radically differently, and would the NDP be any better than the governing Tories?

A better way to look at the politics of the pandemic is to examine the assumption of sometimes presumptuous know-it-all experts on the outside that they know better than the presumably know-nothing experts on the inside. There is much carping from critics at Dr. David Williams, the avuncular chief medical officer of health, with some claiming he is in over his head  and calling for his head.

Would a change in government, and an exchange of experts, bolster Ontarios response to the crisis? Would a new premier and education minister have delivered fewer start-up problems in our schools?

There is no easy answer, but its easy to question the premise: An NDP government in B.C. unveiled a back-to-school plan less robust than Ontarios approach, notably on mandatory masking for younger students; the Liberal opposition in Quebec pointed enviously to Fords government as being miles ahead of us in protecting kids.

In an interview, Education Minister Stephen Lecce acknowledged the delayed starts for many students as school boards struggled to meet a last-minute surge in demand for online courses, but argued thats the price to be paid for giving parents a choice they dont have elsewhere. Quebec, for example, made attendance in class compulsory  more predictable but less preferable for parents who opted for online courses.

The continuing scramble for teachers is a reminder that cost isnt the only COVID-19 obstacle  capacity is also a constraint. Scaling up schools isnt as simple as turning on the tap, because integrating teachers, repurposing classrooms and re-engineering ventilation systems requires more than limitless cash flow or air flow  its also about living in the real world of choices, resources, and planning capacity.

Ontarios back-to-school plan wasnt perfect, but its a work in progress  fully endorsed by the chief medical officer of health, even if thats often forgotten. The provinces pandemic response hasnt been stellar, but the sky isnt falling yet.

As the spectre of a second wave bears down on Ontario  on our leaders, our experts and ourselves  can we remain vigilant without being vituperative? Amid the complexity and context of COVID-19, its worth remembering there are no panaceas in a pandemic.

In that spirit, Ford surprised the opposition this week by inviting the party leaders to share their ideas with him privately in the premiers office. In the aftermath, the parties didnt stop disagreeing, but they did agree to keep talking.

Coming the day after a depressing presidential debate in the U.S.  where the politics of the pandemic are truly destructive  and in the wake of Fords more dignified exchange with Wynne, it was a good week for democratic discourse. Even if a second wave comes as no surprise, domestic politics are proving surprisingly unpredictable.

In a pinch, and in a pandemic, Canada can do COVID-19 differently.

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Governor Newsom has signed a first-in-the-nation bill requiring California businesses including some Silicon Valley giants to have diverse boardrooms.

The law, signed into law by Newsom Wednesday, legally requires all public companies headquartered in California to have at least one board member from a racial or sexual minority by the end of 2021.

This includes someone who identifies as black, Latino, Asian, Pacific Islander, Native American, Native Hawaiian or Alaska Native, or as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender.

The new law, which is the first of its kind on US soil, will apply to more than 660 California-based corporations including the likes of publicly-listed Silicon Valley firms Apple and Facebook.

It comes as companies face mounting calls to improve the diversity of their organizational make-up amid nationwide protests demanding an end to systemic racism following the killings of multiple black men and women by cops across America.

Governor Newsom (pictured) has signed a first-in-the-nation bill requiring California businesses including some Silicon Valley giants to have diverse boardrooms

Newsom said at an online signing ceremony it was important for minorities to have a voice on the boards of powerful corporations.

'When we talk about racial justice, we talk about empowerment, we talk about power, and we need to talk about seats at the table,' he said.

Assemblyman Chris Holden, who co-authored the bill, said many businesses had issued issued statements of support for diversity after the Minneapolis 'murder' of black man George Floyd by a white cop but few had put their words into action.

'The new law represents a big step forward for racial equity,' he said Wednesday.

'While some corporations were already leading the way to combat implicit bias, now, all of California's corporate boards will better reflect the diversity of our state. This is a win-win as ethnically diverse boards have shown to outperform those that lack diversity.'

As well as having one diverse director by the end of 2021, companies with four to nine board members will then be required to have at least two members from an underrepresented community by the end of 2022.

Three directors are required for boards with nine or more directors by the end of 2022.

Firms that don't comply will face fines of $100,00 for first violations and $300,000 for repeated violations.

Assemblyman Chris Holden (pictured), who co-authored the bill, said many businesses had issued issued statements of support for diversity after the Minneapolis 'murder' of black man George Floyd by a white cop but few had put their words into action

The text of the corporate diversity bill cited the Latino Corporate Directors Association, which said 233 of 662 publicly traded companies headquartered in California had all-white boards as of this year.

Nearly 90 percent didn't have any Latino directors, despite Latinos make up 39 percent of the state's population.

Only 16 percent of businesses had an African American board member.

It follows on from diversity legislation adopted in 2018 requiring boardrooms to have at least one female director by 2019.

The only official opponent to the bill was former California commissioner of corporations Keith Bishop.

The only official opponent to the bill was former California commissioner of corporations Keith Bishop (pictured)

He said the bill, coupled with an existing diversity law, would lead to positive discrimination against some people and limit the chances of people who do not fit the diversity standard.

He argued it makes it more desirable for corporations to pick women who also are members of the underrepresented communities to simultaneously meet both sets of quotas, to the detriment of men or women who do not meet the qualifications in the new bill.

The bill may also face pushback from conservative groups who are expected to argue it is a discriminatory quota, as they did with the 2018 law.

Conservative group Judicial Watch filed a suit over the 2018 law saying quotas are 'unconstitutional'.

The new legislation was part of a package of racial justice measures signed by Newsom before a midnight deadline Wednesday.

Others include banning the use of peremptory challenges to remove potential jurors based on racial, religious or gender identity; allowing judges to alter sentences that are believed to involve racial or ethnic discrimination; and setting up a state task force to study the idea of reparations to African Americans for slavery.

The lack of diversity and equal opportunities across corporate America has been put under the spotlight in recent months, in the wake of the Memorial Day 'murder' of unarmed black man George Floyd.

The new law will apply more pressure on Silicon Valley firms that have long faced criticism for their lack of diversity. In May, 10 House Democrats sent a letter to Google CEO Sundar Pichai (pictured) demanding answers over the firm's diversity and inclusion initiatives

Stark data from executive recruiting firm Heidrick & Struggles reveals African-Americans made up just 10 percent of new director appointments in the Fortune 500 last year despite making up 13 percent of the US population.

New Hispanic directors were even more scarce, the study found.

Only 7.3 percent of the five highest-paid executives at financial companies in the Russell 3000 were racial or ethnic minorities, ISS ESG data shows.

The new law will apply more pressure on Silicon Valley firms that have long faced criticism for their lack of diversity.

In May, 10 House Democrats including Reps. Yvette Clarke of New York and Andre Carson of Indiana sent a letter to Google CEO Sundar Pichai demanding answers following allegations the company had scaled back its diversity and inclusion initiatives since 2018.

'It is no secret that companies across Silicon Valley and the tech sector have struggled to increase diversity, and Google is no exception,' the representatives wrote.
Three weeks after the massive presidential rally in Freeland, the Midland County Health Department has seen no COVID-19 cases appear related to the event. Midland County Public Health Director/Health Officer Fred Yanoski explained cases show up between 10-14 days after an event is held.

We have not been notified or discovered any cases of COVID that weve associated with the rally in Freeland, Yanoski stated.

Yanoski did not know of a clear reason why no cases have appeared, as smaller social gatherings in the area have produced new COVID-19 cases. He still cautions individuals to refrain from attending high volume events, wear masks and maintain social distancing in order to keep the community safe.

Its very difficult to predict what events will result in a large number of cases, Yanoski said.

Overall, Midland has seen an increase in its positivity rate as well as cases this past week. A majority of the countys cases are being caused by individuals who do not take the proper precautions, Yanoski said. He empathized with the general frustration felt by the community with the pandemic, but said that since COVID-19 is a highly transmissible disease with no proven vaccine as of yet, the community cant let its guard down

Being a smaller county, a couple of outbreaks can have an impact on the numbers, Yanoski said.

Midland County recorded 11 new confirmed coronavirus cases Thursday, according to the afternoon state report, bringing the pandemic total to 536 cases, 105 probable cases and 11 deaths.

No new deaths recorded Thursday in the region, which includes Midland, Gladwin, Isabella and Saginaw counties, that the Daily News has been chronicling since the start of the pandemic.

In a school outbreak, Northwood University University in Midland lists four active cases, three pending tests and 71 recoveries as of Thursday morning.

Thursday, Oct. 1 daily numbers

Bay County: Eight cases were added; pandemic total stands at 939 cases, 96 probable, 52 deaths.

Gladwin County: Two cases was added; pandemic total stands at 97 cases, 12 probable, two deaths.

Isabella County: Three cases were added; pandemic total stands at 645 cases, 83 probable, 14 deaths.

Saginaw County: 37 cases were added; pandemic total stands at 2,833 cases, 198 probable, 136 deaths and four probable deaths.

The state on Thursday added 891 new cases and 19 deaths; 11 of the deaths were from vital records reviews. Overall, Michigan is at 125,578 cases and 6,781 deaths.

Testing

The state report shows as of Sept. 24, Midland County has performed 14,111 diagnostic tests and 1,796 serology (antibodies) tests, totaling 15,909 tests. Gladwin County is listed as having administered 5,420 diagnostic tests and 263 serology (antibodies) tests, totaling 5,683 tests.

Nursing Homes

Brittany Manor in Midland is listed in the state report as having four cumulative cases and one death among residents as of Sept. 30, and six cumulative cases and no deaths among staff. Midland Kings Daughters is reporting one cumulative case among staff and Medilodge of Midland is reporting three cumulative cases among staff. The other reporting facility, Stratford Pines, is reporting no cases.

Gladwin Pines Nursing Home is listed as having three cumulative confirmed cases and no deaths among residents as of Sept. 30, and two confirmed cases and no deaths among staff. Gladwin Nursing & Rehabilitation Community, the other long-term health facility reporting to the state, is reporting one cumulative confirmed case among residents and three cumulative cases among staff.

Recovered

The Midland County health department in its weekly numbers show a pandemic total of 444 recoveries  37 in the last week  and 41 hospitalizations  four in the last week.

The state lists the total recovered at 95,051 cases, as of Sept. 25, which represents COVID-19 confirmed individuals with an onset date on or prior to Aug. 26, according to the state website, mich.gov.

MidMichigan Health statistics

Patient census: As of Oct. 1, MidMichigan Health is listed as have a 63.7% bed occupancy across its medical centers in Midland, Gladwin, Alpena, Clare, Gratiot and West Branch. In addition, as of Oct. 1, the health system is listed as having 22 COVID-19 patients, including three COVID-19 patients in the ICU. The 10 patients include both patients who have tested positive and patients who are suspected.

PPE days on hand as of Oct. 1: The health system reported 0-6 days for N95 masks; 0-6 days for surgical masks; 7-14 days for surgical gowns; 7-14 days for shields and 0-6 days for gloves.

Recommendations for public

 Socially distance at least 6 feet from non-household members.

 Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

 Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.

 If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol based sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

 Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

 Wear face coverings in public.

 Stay home when sick.

 Covering coughs and sneezes.

 Throw used tissues in the trash right after use.

 Routinely clean frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning wipe or spray.

Where to get help

If you think you've been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms such as cough or difficulty breathing, call your health care provider for medical advice. If he/she isn't available, call MidMichigan Urgent Care in Midland at 989-633-1350 or MidMichigan Medical Center's Emergency Department in Midland at 989-839-3100.

MidMichigan Health has a COVID-19 informational hotline with a reminder of CDC guidelines and recommendations. The hotline can be reached toll-free at 800-445-7356 or 989-794-7600. Michigan Department of Health and Human Services also has a hotline number for Michigan residents for questions about COVID-19. The number is 1-888-535-6136 and is available seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Residents can also e-mail COVID19@michigan.gov. E-mails will be answered seven days a week between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

If you are feeling anxious, stressed, depressed and feel you need to talk to someone, reach out to Community Mental Health for Central Michigan by calling 800-317-0708.
Washington: They've been fighting in Wisconsin and Pennsylvania over the cutoff date for counting mailed ballots, and in North Carolina over witness requirements. Ohio is grappling with drop boxes for ballots as Texas faces a court challenge over extra days of early voting.

Measuring the anxiety over the November election is as simple as tallying the hundreds of voting-related lawsuits filed across the country in recent months. The cases concern the fundamentals of the American voting process, including how ballots are cast and counted, during an election made unique by the coronavirus pandemic and by a president who refuses to commit to accepting the results.

A mail-in ballot is examined at the Santa Clara County Registrar of Voters in San Jose, California. Credit:AP

The lawsuits are all the more important because President Donald Trump has raised the prospect that the election may wind up before a Supreme Court with a decidedly Republican tilt if his latest nominee is confirmed.

This is a president who has expressed his opposition to access to mail ballots and has also seemed to almost foreshadow the inevitability that this election will be one decided by the courts, said Kristen Clarke, executive director of the National Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law.
Meriwether Lewis and William Clark may have felt miserable as they wintered on the Oregon coast, but the hiking trail that traces their legacy is one of the very best in the region.

The Fort to Sea Trail runs between the historic Fort Clatsop site to the Pacific Ocean, passing through several stages of beautiful scenery that the famed explorers encountered at the end of their transcontinental journey. Between the historical significance and diverse natural beauty, theres nothing else like it in Oregon.
SEATTLE, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- For the sixth year in a row, outdoor retailer REI Co-op will close its 167 locations -- stores, activity centers, distribution centers, call centers and headquarters -- and pay its more than 13,000 employees to #OptOutside on Black Friday. Since 2015, REI has made the decision to close on the busiest shopping day of the year to inspire people to spend the day outside with family and friends. Each year, millions of people and hundreds of organizations have joined the movement, demonstrating the power of the outdoors against the turbulence and chaos of Black Friday sales and crowds. In 2020, the outdoors has become increasingly important amid the pandemic, a contentious election season and widespread civil unrest.

"In the middle of everything, we have watched as people all over the world  some of them for the first time  looked to time outside to reflect, restore and connect to one another," REI CEO Eric Artz wrote in a letter to employees and members. "In this year of unprecedented challenges staying true to our purpose, living our values and caring for our people and communities is more important than ever."

The decision to close again on Black Friday comes as the coronavirus pandemic has forced many retailers, including REI, to reimagine how they served customers and communities. Despite unprecedented disruptions to its business, REI remained committed to its core values by prioritizing the health and safety of its employees, continuing to support nonprofits, giving employees and members the tools and information to vote and recently announcing a sweeping carbon commitment to steward the planet for future generations.

With record numbers of people turning to the outdoors this year, local parks, trails and public lands are seeing increased use. In order for everyone to enjoy the outdoors this Black Friday, REI is calling on its employees and members to recreate responsibly and help reduce the spread of COVID-19 while getting outside. This includes practicing physical distancing, carrying handwashing supplies and a face covering, and being prepared to change plans if a trail or park is crowded.

"One of the gifts that time outside offers is perspective  on our own lives, on our work and on the places where those intersect," Artz wrote. "We are focusing on what matters most  on caring for one another, caring for our community, and sharing the connection brought by time outside."

About the REI Co-op

REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation's largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 19 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 167 locations in 39 states and the District of Columbia. If you can't visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI Outlet or the REI shopping app. REI isn't just about gear. Adventurers can take the trip of a lifetime with REI's active adventure travel company, a global leader that runs more than 250 itineraries across all continents. In every community where REI has a presence, professionally trained instructors share their expertise by hosting beginner-to advanced-level classes and workshops about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access toand stewardthe outdoor places that inspire us all.

SOURCE REI Co-op

Related Links

http://www.rei.com


Fort Lauderdale, FL, Oct. 01, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via NewMediaWire -- MediXall Group Inc. (OTCQB: MDXL), a technology and innovation-driven organization focused on reducing healthcare costs and transforming the patient-provider experience through the launch of its Health Karma platform, is pleased to announce the addition of Scott Leavitt as a Consultant to the Company. Scott Leavitt is a Past President of the National Association of Health Underwriters and a professional in the insurance industry. Mr. Leavitt brings more than 28 years of comprehensive healthcare experience and relationships from the health insurance, employee benefits, and wellness market segments and will provide guidance to help support and shape continuing innovation at MediXall Group.



Specifically, Mr. Leavitt will help provide guidance and support on strategic initiatives as the company accelerates business growth, expands its services, and strives to increase market share with insured consumers. Furthermore, he will help provide strategic and tactical insights on health insurance market outreach strategy and provide context to market forces potentially impacting Health Karma and the Companys overall strategy.

I am very excited to be able to Consult with MediXall Group regarding their new program that will help provide tools to consumers to make better decisions about their healthcare needs and to become consumers of healthcare instead of patients of healthcare, said Mr. Leavitt.

Mr. Leavitt, a financial & Insurance professional with a successful track record in the insurance industry, brings a wealth of experience across many dimensions of healthcare to MediXall.

Along with his strong leadership skills and attention to detail, Scott has a long track record working with both clients and advisors.

Following two years with The MONY Group, he founded the Scott Leavitt Insurance & Financial Services firm in Boise, Idaho. Today, he shares his experience as a General Agent in recruiting, training, and mentoring successful agents with Gem State Financial Group.

He is a Past President of the National Association of Health Underwriters (NAHU) in 2008-2009, was the 2010-2011 & 1999-2000 President of Idaho AHU and currently serves on the NAHU Education Foundation. Scott has sat on the Idaho DOI Continuing Education committee and licensing committee. Additionally, Mr. Leavitt is a former Region 7 vice president for NAHU. While NAHU Region 6 membership chair, he guided the region to the NAHU Cup. Prior to that, he was the President of the NAIFA-Boise in 2001 to 2002.

Scott has helped support the private insurance system in all forms of media. Scott has been quoted widely on healthcare, insurance and wellness in several media publications including; The Wall Street Journal, Newsweek, INC Magazine, Fox Business, Kiplingers Business, MSN, Money Magazine, Bankrate.com, USA Today, LA Times, Web MD, Yahoo Finance, Business Week, Idaho Statesman, Idaho Business Review and the Spokesman Review.

Scott is also a frequent speaker at conferences around the country, has written several articles for various magazines and has also testified before Congress.

We are thrilled to be adding Scott Leavitt as a Consultant and leveraging his experience and knowledge, as well as his immense understanding of healthcare and health insurance methodologies to improve health literacy, increase consumer engagement, and expand our strategic relationships with healthcare organizations to help position the organization for success. There are few people in the industry who can equal his deep background in health insurance, employee benefits, and consumer healthcare education, says Michael Swartz, President of Health Karma. Scott will be integral to our strategic planning and growth strategy, as he helps shape our position in the health and wellness space.

As a Consultant, Scott Leavitt will work closely with the MediXall leadership team to consult on business strategy and sales, marketing, and product plans; as well as identifying additional market opportunities and new strategic partnerships for the company.

About MediXall Group, Inc.

MediXall Group, Inc. (OTCQB: MDXL) is a technology and innovation-driven organization purposefully designed and structured around delivering products and services to make it easier for consumers to learn, decide and pay for healthcare, without intruding on the important relationship with trusted doctors. The mission of the MediXall Group is to revolutionize the medical industry by improving communication; providing better technology and support services; and enabling more efficient, cost-effective healthcare for the consumer. For more information, please visit www.medixallgroup.com or call 954-908-3481.

Contact: 954-908-3481
Hong Kongs leader vowed to resist pressure from hostile foreign governments and leverage on Beijings strong support, as the city marked National Day with official celebrations and muted protests under a heavy police presence on the streets that led to scores of arrests.

Authorities had been bracing for potential chaos amid online calls for mass anti-government protests and radical action, but there were only scattered gatherings in defiance of a police ban on what would have been the annual October 1 rally.

There was a heavy police presence in Causeway Bay. Photo: Jonathan Wong

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As of 10pm on Thursday, at least 86 people had been arrested across the city for various offences, mostly for illegal gatherings in Causeway Bay, and the 6,000 officers out in force far outnumbered any pockets of dissent.

At an official morning reception to mark the 71st anniversary of the founding of the Peoples Republic of China, Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor stressed the need for a stable and safe society, learning from the experience of last years social unrest triggered by her since-withdrawn extradition bill and the impact of the national security law that Beijing imposed three months ago.

If we are to keep Hong Kong moving forward  [we must] correctly understand the relationship between one country and two systems, and act in accordance with the constitution and the Basic Law, she said.

No matter how severe some foreign governments, holding double standards, are going to level unjustified accusations, or aggressively impose further sanctions, I and my relevant colleagues will continue to discharge our duty to safeguard national security in accordance with the law, without fear or anxiety.

Lam also said the sweeping security legislation had helped restore stability, and the new law was repeatedly cited as a warning by frontline police officers facing off against those trying to protest on the streets.

Story continues

The Beijing-drafted law, which took effect on June 30, bans acts of secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces.

The citys economic recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic, meanwhile, would require new approaches, Lam said, repeatedly highlighting the support of the central government.

The reception was held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai, and in its Grand Hall, tables of four were set up to abide by social-distancing rules.

The flag-raising ceremony at Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai. Photo: Nora Tam

Before the reception, Lam and hundreds of officials, politicians, diplomats and business representatives attended a flag-raising ceremony at Golden Bauhinia Square outside the exhibition centre.

It was a sharp contrast with October 1 last year, when the flag-raising ceremony was held at the square but officials and guests had to stay in the exhibition centre to watch it on television due to security concerns as the city was rocked by protests.

The Civil Human Rights Front had planned this years National Day rally to show support for 12 Hong Kong fugitives captured at sea by mainland authorities while fleeing to Taiwan, but the activist group was denied permission on public health grounds.

No major clashes or outbreaks of violence were reported on Thursday, as police moved quickly to stop any protest action and break up big groups, while regularly stopping and searching people.

Police made the bulk of the arrests in Causeway Bay. Photo: Sam Tsang

The bulk of the arrests were made in Causeway Bay, where 74 people were detained on suspicion of taking part in unauthorised assemblies. Four of them were district councillors.

Others were accused of possessing an offensive weapon, being unable to show valid identification, holding fake documents, and disorderly conduct in public, among other charges.

Another 20 people were fined for violating rules banning gatherings of more than four people.

Protesters in Causeway Bay kept their movements fluid, scattering across the district, with some joining brief chanting and quickly leaving as police officers approached.

At around 3.30pm, riot police briefly raised the purple flag warning against acts that might breach the national security law, after people gathered near Great George Street and chanted the slogan Liberate Hong Kong; revolution of our times.

The flag was raised again at around 4pm as officers warned protesters they could have violated the sweeping new law after some shouted rogue cops and cursed their families. Inciting hatred against the authorities is considered a crime under the law.

Earlier, the blue flag warning against unauthorised assembly was raised several times, with around 40 mostly young people being detained by officers outside the Fashion Walk shopping centre.

Student Max Jin was among those out protesting in Causeway Bay, playing Glory to Hong Kong, the de facto anthem of the protest movement, on his recorder.

The 18-year-old noted that the lyrics of the song, which has been banned in schools, were taboo under the new law.

Student Max Jin plays his recorder in Causeway Bay. Photo: Jack Lau

Some have replaced the lyrics with numbers. I decided to play the melody with my recorder, he said.

By 7pm, most of the protesters in Causeway Bay were gone, but police were still stopping and searching people near the Sogo department store.

Police also condemned two protesters accused of hurling petrol bombs onto Lung Cheung Road in Wong Tai Sin at around 3pm.

The evil acts of the rioters have severely jeopardised the personal safety of road users and constituted a breach of the peace, police wrote on their social media platform.

A year ago, Chinas grand celebration to mark the 70th anniversary of communist rule was marred by violent protests in Hong Kong, with a police officer opening fire for the first time at an 18-year-old protester.

More from South China Morning Post:

This article National Day: Hong Kongs leader vows to resist foreign pressure and leverage on Beijings strong support first appeared on South China Morning Post

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HOUSTON, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- EP Energy Corporation ("EP Energy" or the "Company") today announced it has successfully completed its financial restructuring and emerged from Chapter 11 better positioned for the long-term with significantly reduced debt, a stronger balance sheet and enhanced financial flexibility.

Through the financial restructuring process, EP Energy has reduced its pre-petition debt by approximately $4.4 billion. Pursuant to the Company's Amended Plan of Reorganization (the "Plan"), EP Energy closed on a new $629 million senior secured reserve based loan facility ("RBL") from the Company's existing revolving loan lenders. The three-year RBL facility is backed by a $650 million borrowing base supported by the Company's oil and gas reserves. EP Energy is well-capitalized and is moving forward with over $200 million of available liquidity and approximately $400 million of debt net of unrestricted cash.

President and Chief Executive Officer Russell Parker said, "This is an exciting day for EP Energy and marks the beginning of the next chapter as an even stronger, more competitive company. Having successfully completed the restructuring process, we have a stronger balance sheet and a sustainable business model that is positioned for success throughout commodity cycles. We are now poised to generate significant free cash flow on a go-forward basis, which we believe will provide the financial flexibility to continue building our business and create value for our stakeholders."

Mr. Parker continued, "I want to thank our outstanding employees for their unwavering commitment and focus throughout this process. We are moving ahead well enabled to capitalize on our strong asset base and operational expertise as we continue working with our vendors, royalty owners, lessors and business partners. We look forward to the continued partnership with our stakeholders and our bright future ahead."

In connection with the completion of its financial restructuring, EP Energy has appointed a new Board of Directors consisting of Russell Parker (President and Chief Executive Officer), John Pinkerton, Harry Quarls (Chairman), Jerry Schuyler and David Wolf. The Company's management team remains in place. Biographies for the directors and management team may be found on the Company's website at epenergy.com.

Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP is serving as the Company's legal counsel, Evercore is serving as financial advisor and FTI Consulting, Inc. is serving as restructuring advisor.

About EP Energy Corporation

The Company focuses on enhancing the value of its high quality asset portfolio, increasing capital efficiency, maintaining financial flexibility, and pursuing accretive acquisitions and divestitures. EP Energy is working to set the standard for efficient development of hydrocarbons in the U.S. Learn more at epenergy.com.

Forward Looking Statements

This release includes certain forward-looking statements and projections of EP Energy. Such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause results to differ materially from the Company's expectations. While the Company makes these statements in good faith, neither the Company nor its management can guarantee that anticipated future results will be achieved. The Company assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements made herein or any other forward-looking statements made by the Company, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. All forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on the Company's behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the foregoing cautionary statements. All such statements speak only as of the date made, and, except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

SOURCE EP Energy Corporation
The Centre on Thursday said it has procured 1,04,417 tonnes of paddy worth Rs 197 crore in the past five days at minimum support price (MSP) from Punjab and Haryana.

With the release of procurement data on a daily basis, the government possibly aims to send a message to farmers protesting against new farm laws that it has no intention of scrapping procurement at MSP.

Farmers of Punjab and Haryana and several other states are protesting against the new farm laws, which they feel will lead to procurement in the hands of corporates and the end of MSP regime.

In a statement, the Union Agriculture Ministry said about 91,005 tonnes of paddy from Punjab and 13,412 tonnes from Haryana has been procured at MSP of Rs 1,888 per quintal in the past five days till September 30.

A total of 1,04,417 tonnes of paddy at Rs 197 crore under MSP has been procured from 8,059 farmers of Haryana and Punjab during the period, it added.

commenced from September 26 in Punjab and Haryana, while in the remaining states it commenced on September 28.

For the current year, the government has fixed the (common grade) at Rs 1,868 per quintal, while that of A-grade variety at Rs 1,888 per quintal.

Besides, under the Price Support Scheme (PSS), the government, through its nodal agencies, has procured 46.35 tonnes of moong at Rs 33 lakh MSP value so far, benefiting 48 farmers in Tamil Nadu.

Similarly, 5,089 tonnes of copra (the perennial crop) having MSP value of Rs 52.40 crore has been procured, benefiting 3,961 farmers in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu in the past three days.

The ministry said it has given nod for procurement of 14.09 lakh tonnes of kharif pulses and oilseeds from Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Telangana and Haryana.

For other states and union territories, approval will be accorded on receipt of proposal.

Cotton procurement for the 2020-21 season will commence from October 1.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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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.
Utilizing these neighborhood feeds allows me to deliver a more direct message to individuals which I think is more impactful in todays culture.

Award-winning author Christal Jordan has partnered with Soofa, the neighborhood news feed, to provide inspiration based around her best-selling book, 'HOW TO WIN WHEN SH*T HAPPENS: 31 Affirmations to Build Mental Immunity in the Midst of Chaos' for the metro Atlanta community. Twenty-eight Soofa news boards around the city will host daily affirmations and motivational quotes from Jordan's book reminding readers to take time for personal reflection. "I'm excited to be partnering with Soofa a revolutionary platform that offers a personal line of communication with the community. Soofa sign is the world's first outdoor electronic paper display for downtowns, neighborhoods, parks and campuses. My hope is when people are going about their day, they see these affirmations and it gives them a personal reminder to take a moment for themselves. Sometimes taking a moment to restart your thinking process is key in changing the outcome of your day," Jordan says.

Jordan selected ten significant affirmations from the book for the Soofa signs along with quotes and a daily question for each sign. Jordan believes affirmations from the book such as: THAT WHICH MAKES ME DIFFERENT MAKES ME VALUABLE and I AM POWERFUL BEYOND MY WILDEST DREAMS AND IMAGINATIONS will resonate with people as they pass the signs throughout their day.

Since the books release in May 2020, Jordan has received consistent feedback on the impact of doing the affirmations on a daily basis. "I've gotten emails, DMs and messages from the website on the impact of the affirmations. The book was written to help anyone that needs to fix their internal perspective, but this year many people needed it more than ever. From the constant feeds of current political unrest to the racial violence and economic disparity, we are all in need of "good news". I celebrated a milestone in sales with a billboard in Times Square, a dream come true but Im even more excited about this partnership with Soofa. Utilizing these neighborhood feeds allows me to deliver a more direct message to individuals which I think is more impactful in todays culture, Jordan believes.

Jordans Soofa newsfeeds will premiere on Friday, October 2nd in twenty-eight primary locations throughout metro Atlanta. My birthday is October 3rd and I couldnt think of a better way to celebrate than helping to inspire others to believe unapologetically in themselves, she shares.

HOW TO WIN WHEN SH*T HAPPENS: 31 Affirmations to Build Mental Immunity in the midst of Chaos lists quotes from Oprah Winfrey, Jay Z, Tony Robbins, Kobe Bryant and many more. The book is currently a top-seller on Amazon and is also available at http://www.howtowinwhenshithappens.com. You can find Jordans Soofa sponsored signs throughout metro Atlanta HERE: https://soofatalk.com/explore/-KxhlWBbhhrnBKtqJH5W.

About Soofa

Soofa is a female founded company, launched out of MIT and Harvard in 2014.

Soofa is for people with a shared stake in a special place. We create the neighborhood news feed that connects a community with screens everyone can see and anyone can use. (http://www.soofatalk.com)

About the book:

HOW TO WIN WHEN SH*T HAPPENS: 31 Affirmations to Build Mental Immunity in the Midst of Chaos is a brilliantly organized compilation of thirty-one self-motivating affirmations and quotes that moves the reader from the core of self through layer after layer of fear, uncertainty, and doubt to emerge as a stronger, more self-assured individual. (http://www.howtowinwhenshithappens.com)
Highlights Apples App Store and Google Play Store may get a competition soon.

Startup founders have asked the government to help them create an app store.

Many startup founders discussed the idea in a call on Tuesday.

The startup founders across India have asked the government to support them in creating an app store to counter the existing app stores in India by Google and Apple.

As per Economic Times, a group of startup founders recently discussed ways to come up with an app store that could host local apps.

Group of founders including Paytm's Vijay Shekhar Sharma, Yashish Dahiya of Policybazaar, and Matrimony.com's Murugavel Janakiraman have demanded app neutrality. "If India has net neutrality, why can't we have app neutrality. A body monitored by the government can ensure app neutrality, fairness, and openness," Jayaraman was quoted by ET as saying

Another founder in the group, Visha Patel, founder of CCAvenue said, "The government has to certainly step in and take the lead on this. If there is some kind of restriction imposed due to geopolitical tensions, an Indian app store can save the day for everyone." The founders have expressed their displeasure over Google's play store guidelines, which gives it the right to take a 30 percent cut on in-app purchases.

"The company is forcing developers to use its own payment gateway, it is also controlling how ads appear and there are issues on search; they seem to have an unabated power over the entire ecosystem which we are against," Patel told ET.
Amid the standoff at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China, the United States on Thursday said that it has recognised the state of Arunachal Pradesh as India's territory for nearly six decades and strongly opposes any unilateral attempts of advancing claim over it, indirectly targeting China.

For nearly six decades the US has recognized Arunachal Pradesh as Indian territory. We strongly oppose any unilateral attempts to advance territorial claims by incursions, by military or civilian incursions across the established line of actual control, said a US Senior State Department official.

"For the disputed boundaries, all we can say is that we encourage India and China to use their existing bilateral channels to discuss those and not resort to military force," said the official.

Earlier in September, the Pentagon had said that China has been using coercive tactics in pursuit of territorial and maritime claims in the South and East China Seas, as well as along its border with India and Bhutan. "Tensions with India persist along the northeastern border near the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, which China asserts is part of Tibet and therefore part of China, and near the Aksai Chin region at the western end of the Tibetan Plateau," the Pentagon had said in its report to the Congress.

Here is the full comment:

SENIOR STATE DEPARTMENT OFFICIAL: I see. I see. I mean, we could say that we are  that were closely monitoring the situation. The discussion of where the actual border is, of course, is very  is a very sensitive one, so what we have done in the past is supported both sides efforts to achieve a diplomatic settlement that both sides can accept. We have  our position on some parts of the border for sure is explicitly clear. For nearly six decades the United States has recognized Arunachal Pradesh as Indian territory. And  I mean, I guess where I will leave it as saying that we strongly oppose any unilateral attempts to advance territorial claims by incursions, by military or civilian incursions across the border or across the established line of actual control. And the disputed boundaries, all we can say is that we encourage India and China to use their existing bilateral channels to discuss those and not resort to military force.

Amid the rising border tension, India and China on September 30 held talks to ease the current border tension. The Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination (WMCC) talks between India and China took place virtually.

While this was the 19th WMCC meet since the mechanism came up in 2012, it is the fifth such meet amid the ongoing tension. At WMCC meets, Joint Secretary (East Asia) in Ministry of External Affairs Naveen Srivastava represents India. China is represented by Director General of the Boundary & Oceanic Department of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

This is the first WMCC meet since the foreign ministers of two countries met in Moscow on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) earlier in September in which both sides agreed for disengagement to ease the tension.

During the talks, the two sides had an in-depth exchange of views on the situation and agreed to earnestly implement the five-point consensus reached at the Moscow meeting in Russia between the two foreign ministers.

Both the nations decided to strictly abide by the border affairs agreement and agreement signed by the two countries, and take practical measures to promote the border situation. It was also agreed to further ease the cooling down and avoid any actions that may complicate the situation.

The two sides positively evaluated the results of the sixth round of commander-level talks and agreed to continue to maintain dialogue and consultations through diplomatic and military channels. They also agreed to hold the seventh round of commander-level talks as soon as possible.

It was decided to step up and properly handle remaining issues on the ground, and jointly maintain peace in the border areas.

After the Foreign Ministers meet, 6th corps commander level talks happened at the Line of Actual Control, and while disengagement by China is yet to happen, both sides agreed to "stop sending more troops to the frontline."

WMCC is an institutional mechanism for consultation and coordination for the management of India - China border areas. During this meet, both sides exchange views on strengthening communication including on areas such as border security personnel of the two sides.

On September 29, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) asserted that India never accepted the so-called unilaterally defined 1959 Line of Actual Contro (LAC), adding that the position has been consistent and well known including to the Chinese. The MEA said India urged China to "sincerely and faithfully" abide by all "agreements and understandings in their entirety and refrain from advancing an untenable unilateral interpretation of the LAC".

India and Chinese have been involved in commander talks ever since the Galwan Valley clash in June. On August 29-30, the Indian and Chinese troops were involved in another skirmish as the Indian side sought to push back the Chinese incursion amid the standoff at the border.

"As we have previously made clear, the Indian side has always respected and abided by the LAC. As Defence Minister stated in the Parliament recently, it is the Chinese side which by its attempts to transgress the LAC in various parts of the Western Sector, has tried to unilaterally alter the status quo," it had said.

In the last few months, the Chinese side has repeatedly affirmed that the current situation in the border areas should be resolved in accordance with the agreements signed between the two countries. In the agreement reached between External Affairs Minister and his Chinese counterpart on September 10 also, the Chinese side has reiterated its commitment to abide by all the existing agreements, the MEA had added.



The MEA had added, "We, therefore, expect that the Chinese side will sincerely and faithfully abide by all agreements and understandings in their entirety and refrain from advancing an untenable unilateral interpretation of the LAC."

"Under their various bilateral agreements including the 1993 Agreement on Maintenance of Peace and Tranquility on Confidence Building Measures (CBMs) in the military field, 2005 Agreement on Political Parameters and Guiding Principles for settlement of the India-China boundary question, both India and China have committed to clarification and confirmation of the LAC to reach a common understanding of the alignment of the LAC," the MEA had said.

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The MEA had further stated that the "two sides had engaged in an exercise to clarify and confirm the LAC up to 2003 but this process could not proceed further as the Chinese side did not show a willingness to pursue it".

"Therefore the insistence now on of the Chinese side that they is only one LAC is contrary to the solemn commitments made by China in these agreements," the MEA had asserted.
Google to Pay Publishers $1 Billion Over 3 Years for Their News

BRUSSELSAlphabets Google plans to pay $1 billion to publishers globally for their news over the next 3 years, its CEO said on Thursday, a step that could help it win over a powerful group amid heightened regulatory scrutiny worldwide.

News publishers have long fought the worlds most popular internet search engine for compensation for using their content, with European media groups leading the charge.

CEO Sundar Pichai said the new product called Google News Showcase will launch first in Germany, where it has signed up German newspapers including Der Spiegel, Stern, Die Zeit, and in Brazil with Folha de S.Paulo, Band, and Infobae.

It will be rolled out in Belgium, India, the Netherlands, and other countries. About 200 publishers in Argentina, Australia, Britain, Brazil, Canada, and Germany have signed up to the product.

This financial commitmentour biggest to datewill pay publishers to create and curate high-quality content for a different kind of online news experience, Pichai said in a blog post.

Google parent Alphabet reported a net profit of $34.3 billion on revenue of almost $162 billion last year.

The product, which allows publishers to pick and present their stories, will launch on Google News on Android devices and eventually on Apple devices.

This approach is distinct from our other news products because it leans on the editorial choices individual publishers make about which stories to show readers and how to present them, Pichai said.

German publisher the Spiegel Group welcomed the project.

With News Showcase and the new integration of editorial content like from Spiegel, Google shows that they are serious about supporting quality journalism in Germany. We are happy to be part of it from the start, said Stefan Ottlitz, managing director of the Spiegel Group.

The European Publishers Council (EPC), whose members include News UK, the Guardian, Pearson, The New York Times, and Schibsted, however, was not enthusiastic.

By launching a product, they [Google] can dictate terms and conditions, undermine legislation designed to create conditions for a fair negotiation, while claiming they are helping to fund news production, said EPC Executive Director Angela Mills Wade.

The product builds on a licensing deal with media groups in Australia, Brazil, and Germany in June, which also drew a lukewarm response from the EPC.

Google is negotiating with French publishers, among its most vocal critics, while Australia wants to force it and Facebook to share advertising revenue with local media groups.

Googles funding for news organizations has frustrated other Internet publishers, such as weather websites and recipe tools, which say Google has hurt their revenue.

By Foo Yun Chee
Locals are banding together to push for improvements to Ontarios long-term care system and call for that care to be under the Canada Health Act.

The Haliburton-CKL Long-Term Care Coalition is a new public group made up of people from across both Haliburton and Kawartha Lakes. It formally announced itself Sept. 24 and seeks to address the deficiencies in long-term care made apparent by COVID-19.

Member Bonnie Roe said they feel bringing it into the Canada Health Act will help address those issues.

Theres a real issue around the quality of care, Roe said. With COVID, it stretched staff, working hours, training. I think its just stretched people too thin.

The coalition is also calling for an end to private, for-profit nursing home companies and a change in long-term care culture to become more resident-centred and rights-based. Roe said they have established contacts in other organizations, like the Ontario Health Coalition, with similar objectives. She said the group is getting a positive response.

It affects everyone, she said. This issue is not new.

Long-term care in the province came under scrutiny when the military, called in to assist amidst the pandemic, reported terrible conditions at some private long-term care homes. That prompted the province to launch an independent commission.

Every publicly funded dollar and every dollar paid by the residents of long-term care should go to their care, not to profit corporate entities and their shareholders, Haliburton member Brigitte Gebauer said in a press release.

Kawartha Lakes member and former federal NDP candidate Mike Perry said they have ambitious goals but there is a great need.

We need to help our seniors, front-line workers, and families, Perry said. To build things back better, as any of us may need long-term care ourselves one day.

The group is planning its first event in Haliburton Oct. 8, in solidarity with a day of action organized by the Ontario Health Coalition to call for long-term care improvements. Anyone interested in the group is encouraged to contact Roe at 705- 286-2414 or hcklongtermcarecoalition@ gmail.com.

Roe said improved standards could help local care providers and prevent situations such as the roof leaks at the Highland Wood Long-Term Care Home in February 2019.

We feel that the regulations, if they were under the Canada Health Act, would be for all long-term care facilities, Roe said. Hopefully, that would help prevent the issues.
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Linkedin Alya Nurbaiti (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Thu, October 1, 2020 06:38 479 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c485324b 1 SE Asia Abu-Sayyaf,Sulu,sulu-waters,Philippines,Foreign-Minister-Retno-Marsudi,Foreign-Ministry,kidnapping Free

An Indonesian fisherman held hostage by the Abu Sayyaf group has died following a shootout between the Philippines security force and militants in the coastal town of Patikul in Sulu on Wednesday, the Foreign Ministry has confirmed.

The fisherman, identified as LB, was among five Indonesian sailors abducted by the militant group in January and held captive in the southern Philippines.

Indonesia Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said the gun battle between security personnel of Joint Task Force Sulu and the 45th Battalion Infantry with the Abu Sayyaf group occurred at 8 a.m. local time.

LB's body has been flown from Sulu to a funeral house in Zamboanga City aboard a Filipino military aircraft, she said.

On behalf of the government, I would like to express my deep condolences to the family of the victim, Retno said in a press briefing on Wednesday.

The ministry has told LBs family and the Buton administration in Southeast Sulawesi of his death, she added.

She asserted that the Indonesian government would continue to coordinate with the Philippines on the status of the four other hostages.

The AFP [Armed Forces of the Philippines] is committed to finding and rescuing them, Retno said.

On Jan. 16, six members from a faction of the Abu Sayyaf group  a loose association of militants who kidnap for ransom  abducted five Indonesian fishermen from their fishing boat in Sabahs easternmost waters off Lahad Datu, Malaysia, about 10 minutes from the Tawi-Tawi chain of islands in the southern Philippines.

The hostages were part of an eight-man crew aboard a Sabah-registered fishing vessel before armed gunmen took them to the southern Philippines, where the Abu Sayyaf operate.

The militant group began targeting Indonesian sailors in 2016. As many as 39 people had been abducted before the January kidnapping, although the government has denied claims it has paid the ransom demands to release the hostages.
Three years ago at a psychology conference, a small group of female researchers and university faculty members observed that, compared with their male counterparts, few women had received early-career awards. Some reflected on their experiences of bias in the workplace and the treatment they had received during maternity leave and promotion decisions.

These observations were the catalyst for a systematic assessment of the literature in the field to more fully define the standing of women in psychological science, ultimately resulting in the publication of The Future of Women in Psychological Science in the journal Perspectives on Psychological Science.

Systemic pressure for women to serve as caregivers may contribute to lower publication rates, less pursuit of tenure-track positions, and less research prominence.

Many of our fellow female psychologists were interested in exploring womens roles and status within psychological science, signed up to coauthor, and offered suggestions for other authors to include, said June Gruber (University of Colorado, Boulder), lead author of the article. Very quickly, we had a large and active authorship group of over 50 women psychological scientists.

A Call to Action

Over the past several decades the face of science has evolved from a mostly White, male cohort to be more diverse and inclusive. This is particularly true in the field of psychology, which has seen a rapid rise in the percentage of bachelors degrees awarded to women, from approximately 45% in the early 1970s to well over 70% in 2017.

Although the gender distribution of undergraduate degrees is encouraging, it does not paint the full picture. As detailed in the report, more work is needed to close the academic, professional, and financial gender gaps that continue to permeate all scientific disciplines, including psychological science.

As the coauthors initially observed, there was a dearth of data on the standing of women in psychological science. This raised two important questions the study aimed to address: What are the present gender gaps in psychological science? And why do these gaps exist?

The paper introduces 10 issues of analysis. Three present gender gaps in psychological science today. The remaining seven identify the mechanisms that allow gender gaps to continue to exist in psychological science.

Where Are the Present Gender Gaps in Psychological Science?

The authors examined gender gaps in three domains: career advancement, financial compensation, and service assignment and practices.

They found that women are still underrepresented among veteran psychological scientists, although psychology is doing comparatively better than other fields in closing the gender gap in early-career advancement. But the gap doesnt stop there.

On average, men publish more psychological science articles than women every year across most stages of their careers, and gender pay gaps persist despite shrinking over time. On average, a womans salary as an associate professor is 92% that of a mans across all institutions; for full professors, it falls to 88%.

In addition, women are more likely to perform lower-status services for their universities, institutions, and broader scholarly communities, which Gruber and colleagues define as an integral part of academic life. They also perform more services that may go unnoticed (e.g., informal mentorship, especially given the large percentage of female psychology majors).

And although women earn more doctoral degrees in psychology than men and are as or more likely than men to be hired as assistant professors, they are less likely to submit, receive, and renew grants or to have comparable publication and citation rates.

Although they vary in form and over time, the gaps are there. Where do we go from here?

Why Do Gender Gaps Exist in Psychological Science?

Gruber and her colleagues tackled this question by considering systemic, interpersonal, and intrapersonal factors in seven issues affecting womens success in psychological science. Systemic factors focus on the broadest, macro-level perspectives. Interpersonal factors shape mens and womens behaviors and perceptions. Intrapersonal factors affect womens choices and preferences and, consequently, may also affect womens career advancement and success.

Factors were not mutually exclusive, which led the studys authors to conclude early that gender-gap-facilitating mechanisms are complex and embedded deeply in workplace and academic structures.

They analyzed issues including lifestyle roles and work-family conflict, gender biases, attainment of positions of power, intersectionality, harassment and incivility, agency, self-esteem, promotion, and a sense of a lack of belonging.

The studys results showed that systemic pressure for women to serve as caregivers may contribute to lower publication rates, less pursuit of tenure-track positions, and less research prominence. Additionally, interpersonal and intrapersonal gender biases create stereotypes that are more likely to associate scientific work and brilliance with men than women.

The study found that both women and men are socialized to accept and conform to gender stereotypes and will seek out careers that enforce such stereotypes.

The influence of stereotypes and biases aside, women also experience sexual harassment more often than men, a problem the studys results suggest will persist for women in the workplace.

Apart from illustrating gender gaps and the mechanisms that allow them to exist in psychological science, the study also makes recommendations for psychological scientists to reduce and perhaps even close the gender gap.

Whats Next? The Path Forward for Women in Psychological Science

Gruber and colleagues make a series of recommendations to address the problems their report explores, including educating and redesigning hiring and award committees, providing transparency in compensation, offering gender-bias training, providing more support for families and underrepresented groups of women, and collecting and maintaining data on the efforts made to narrow the gender gap.

Although the study found that many mechanisms that allow the gender gap to remain are deeply rooted in systematic practices, it also outlines smaller steps toward broader inclusivity. These include strategies as simple as encouraging female colleagues to invite their own colleagues to events and holding meetings at hours that dont compete with family time.

The study acknowledges the strides the field of psychology has taken to bridge the gender gap. However, despite the accomplishments of women in psychological science, the researchers believe work remains to reach true parity.

The authors conclude by stressing the need for the field of psychology to support women, especially in the midst of economic unrest. Although we have made some progress over time, there remain significant and important issues to address to chart a path of equity for women looking ahead, Gruber said.

Gruber acknowledged the work of the core team of leading authorsJane Mendle, Kristen Lindquist, Toni Schmader, Lee Anna Clark, and Eliza Bliss-Moreauwho helped bring together this group of women in our field to create an impactful paper.

References

Gruber, J., Mendle, J., Lindquist, K. A., Schmader, T., Clark, L. A., Bliss-Moreau, E., Akinola, M., Atlas, L., Barch, D. M., Barrett, L. F., Borelli, J. L., Brannon, T. N., Bunge, S. A., Campos, B., Cantlon, J., Carter, R., Carter-Sowell, A. R., Chen, S., Craske, M. G., . . . Williams, L. A. (2020). The future of women in psychological science. Perspectives on Psychological Science. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1177/1745691620952789

Perry, M. (2019, May). Chart of the Day: Female shares of BA degrees by major, 1971 to 2017 [Blog post]. Retrieved from https://www.aei.org/carpe-diem/chart-of-the-day-female-shares-of-ba-degrees-by-major-1971-to-2017/
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 04:15:02|Editor: huaxia

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Tunisian President Kais Saied (C) meets with U.S. Defense Secretary Mark Esper and the American delegation in Tunis, Tunisia, Sept. 30, 2020. They discussed U.S.-Tunisian cooperation in the fields of economy, security, defense, combating terrorism and regional issues of common concern, according to a statement released by the Presidency. (Tunisian Presidency/Handout via Xinhua)

TUNIS, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- Tunisian President Kais Saied met on Wednesday with U.S. Defense Secretary Mark Esper over the issues of anti-terrorism and the Libyan crisis during his one-day visit to the country.

They discussed U.S.-Tunisian cooperation in the fields of economy, security, defense, combating terrorism and regional issues of common concern, according to a statement released by the Presidency.

On the Libyan crisis, Saied noted the solution to the crisis should be based on the agreement of all the Libyan factions away from any foreign interference.

He reaffirmed Tunisia's readiness to provide all facilities for finding a political settlement that preserves the unity and stability of Libya since Tunisia is one of the countries most affected by the situation in Libya.

For his part, Esper said the United States is also ready to contribute to a peaceful solution that would put an end to the crisis in Libya and achieve stability in the region.

Earlier in the day, Tunisian Defense Minister Ibrahim Bartaji signed with Esper a roadmap for military cooperation between the two countries for the period 2020-2030.

According to a statement released by the Defense Ministry, this roadmap aims at increasing the readiness of the Tunisian armed forces and developing their capabilities of facing security threats and challenges in the region. Enditem
Senior woman wearing medical mask giving medicine to husband

Findings of a recent study from the University of Georgia support growing evidence for airborne transmission of COVID-19 in enclosed spaces.

Researchers were able to link a community outbreak of COVID-19 in China to a source patient who likely spread the virus to fellow bus riders through the bus's air conditioning system.

"The possibility of airborne transmission has long been suspected, but with limited empirical evidence. Our study provided epidemiologic evidence of transmission over long distances, which was likely airborne," said Ye Shen, an associate professor of epidemiology and biostatistics at UGA's College of Public Health and lead author on the study.

The study, which was published recently in JAMA Internal Medicine, calls into question the prevailing thought on how COVID-19 can spread.

"It was largely believed that close contact through droplets is a major route of transmission for COVID-19. However, the widely adopted social distancing and hand washing did not effectively prevent the transmission globally. Instead, the number of new COVID-19 cases increased steadily," said Shen.

Shen and his co-authors worked with epidemiologists from two regional Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in China to trace infections following a large outdoor worship event in Zhejiang province.

Some of the attendees, it turns out, took two buses to the event creating a unique natural experiment for the researchers.

Both buses had closed windows and had air conditioning running, said Changwei Li, an associate professor of epidemiology at Tulane University and study co-author - but one bus carried a patient infected with the virus, and the other did not.

Of the passengers who later got sick, the majority of them rode on the same bus as the source patient. Even though the two groups later mixed in with the larger crowd at the worship event, the number of new cases attributed to the event were much lower, suggesting that the bus was the major point of transmission.

Story continues

Further, some of the bus passengers who later showed symptoms of COVID-19, the authors found, were not sitting close to the infected passenger.

These findings highlight scenarios where COVID-19 could be spread through fine aerosol particles being circulated in an enclosed space, and as the weather turns colder, Shen and Li hope this work will persuade more people to wear face masks in public areas, particularly in indoor spaces.

"Understanding the transmission routes of COVID-19 is critical to contain the pandemic, so that effective prevention strategies can be developed targeting all potential transmission routes," said Shen.

"Our findings provide solid support for wearing face covering in enclosed environments with poor ventilation," Shen added. (ANI)
India on Thursday said the onus is on Pakistan for creating an environment conducive to normal neighbourly relations in an atmosphere free of terrorism and violence.

External affairs ministry spokesperson Anurag Srivastava made the remarks during a weekly news briefing while answering a question on Indias overall relations with its neighbouring countries. He said Indias position on ties with Pakistan is well-known.

The government has conveyed that it desires normal neighbourly relations with Pakistan in an atmosphere free of terror, hostility and violence. The onus is on Pakistan for creating such an environment, he said.

In recent days, India has held a bilateral summit with Sri Lanka, a meeting of the Joint Consultative Commission with Bangladesh, and foreign office consultations with Myanmar and these engagements were part of the countrys neighbourhood first policy, he said.

The Indian government is committed to friendly and mutually beneficial relations with neighbours, and its engagements are based on a consultative, non-reciprocal and outcome-oriented approach, Srivastava said. India also has a large development cooperation footprint in neighbouring countries, with several projects to promote greater connectivity, improved infrastructure and people-to-people contacts, he added.

In response to another question, Srivastava dismissed Pakistans criticism of an Indian courts verdict acquitting all 32 accused in the 1992 Babri mosque demolition case, including senior BJP leaders LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi.

India is a mature democracy, where the government and the people abide by the verdicts of the court and show respect for the rule of law. It may be difficult for a system with a coercive apparatus, where people and the courts can be silenced at the will of the establishment, to understand such a democratic ethos, he said.

Srivastava also said India expects Pakistan to ensure the safety and security of the Indian high commission in Islamabad and its personnel following a staged protest outside the mission over the recent death of 11 Pakistani Hindus in Rajasthan.

He said the Pakistani Hindus, who were in India since September 2015, died after consuming a toxic substance and their deaths were reported to the external affairs ministry on August 8. In response to a communication from the Pakistani high commission in New Delhi seeking information on the incident, India had shared an interim response on August 14.

This incident was exploited by the Pakistani establishment to further its own anti-India propaganda, and a staged protest was held in Islamabad, where people who claimed to belong to the Hindu community had gathered outside the Indian mission, he said.

I would say it is the responsibility of the Pakistani authorities to ensure the safety and security of the Indian high commission in Islamabad and its personnel, he added.
The Laois Offaly based Minister who has responsibility for forestry insists she act 'swiftly' in the face of claims that families are worried about their livelihoods due to what has been called a supply crisis.

Green Party senator, Pippa Hackett, is Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture. She moved a new bill through the Dail this week which met with stiff opposition.

She acknowledged that jobs are going in what is a crisis but she insists what she has done is the correct action.

I moved swiftly to get this bill implemented because this is a crisis. There is so much at stake. Saplings are being destroyed, landowners cant get licences, sawmills are ceasing to function, workers are being laid off.

I have long-term plans to increase the amount of land under sustainable forestry, but the appeals process had become unmanageable and needed to be made fit-for-purpose

The Forestry Bill is designed to speed up the appeals process with more people hearing appeals. However, the right to appeal is still protected. I removed the provision that only relevant people can make objections and I declined amendments seeking to put a time limit on appeals, she said.

However, Dep Stanley, who is Laois-Offaly TD and Chair of the Public Accounts Committee, has called for urgent caation to address the crisis in the forestry and timer industry. He spoke in the Dail chamber where Minister Hackett came under attack over the Forestry (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2020.

There is a crisis in the forestry sector, and it needs to be urgently addressed. This is an industry in which thousands of jobs are at risk in rural areas where there is little or no alternative employment.

There are almost 800 workers in Laois and Offaly alone who are reliant upon this industry through forestry, timber production and sawmills. Some of these workers are already on short time.

This crisis is very real for the likes of Coolrain Sawmills, Sheerans in Mountrath and the Portlaoise Sawmill where families are very worried. Supplies of wood are reaching a critical point, to supply construction and biofuel industries. Portlaoise Sawmill has already scaled back production of wood pellets and cant meet demand. Right now, only around 25% of what is needed in the supply chain is being approved due to the licenses backlog.

It has got to the point where we are now importing timber into Ireland to meet demand. Alarmingly, Ive been informed that a case of timber imported from Germany was contaminated by Bark Beetle. This is an insect that led to 32 million cubic metres of German timber having to be disposed of in 2019. We cannot allow for such an incident to occur in Ireland. We need to reduce importing timber and allow our own industry to get back to work.

We support the substance of the government's bill but will be submitting a number of amendments aimed at dealing with the bottlenecks in granting licenses and to make the appeals system work more efficiently. We support the proposal for a modest fee to lodge appeals or submissions on the granting of licenses, but it must be capped at a reasonable amount.

The Forestry Appeals Committee must also be adequately resourced to clear the backlog and to allow it deal with licenses a lot quicker. Legislation will be worthless if this doesnt happen," he said.

Dep Stanley called for a new forestry policy to increase the amount of broadleaf trees, to improvise biodiversity, and to promote on farm forestry.
An Irish national who evaded police for three weeks by hiding in rural NSW has been charged following an alleged one-punch assault and stabbing.

Patrick Farrell could face deportation in relation to the two violent incidents. In November 2019, Mr Farrell allegedly punched a 56-year-old man in the beer garden of a hotel in Matraville knocking him unconscious.

Irish national Patrick Farrell was arrested on Wednesday in relation to an alleged one-punch assault and unrelated stabbing. Credit:NSW Police

In August, Mr Farrell, 29, was allegedly one of four people involved in a stabbing attack in Randwick in which a 30-year-old man had his ear partially severed.

NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller told 2GB in September that Mr Farrell was in Australia on a student visa.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-02 06:26:13|Editor: huaxia

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DUBLIN, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Ambassador to Ireland He Xiangdong said on Thursday that China is grateful for the kind help offered by the Irish people and government in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and is now willing to work together with Ireland as well as all other countries to win the battle against the pandemic.

The Chinese ambassador made the remark while delivering a speech at an online event to celebrate the 71st anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China and the traditional Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival, which both fell on Thursday.

"During the war against the pandemic, China received precious support from many friendly countries, including Ireland. I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to the people and the government of Ireland for your kind help," said He in a video speech posted on the website of the Chinese embassy in Ireland.

"Now China has achieved decisive progress in controlling COVID-19 and reopening the economy, we would like to work along with all countries, including Ireland, to achieve the final victory," as the health and prosperity of the Chinese people are closely linked with that of the whole world, he said.

In his speech, He cited a number of factors as favorable conditions for the further development of China-Ireland relations.

"Our shared task of economic recovery is the impetus for deepening of cooperation between our two countries," he said, adding that the friendship tested during the pandemic creates a positive atmosphere for further expansion of bilateral relations in many fields.

"China's commitment to greater openness provides many more platforms and opportunities for our bilateral cooperation. Both of our two countries strongly advocate multilateralism," the ambassador noted.

"Working together, we will bring a brighter future to our two peoples and the whole world," he emphasized.

In the speech, the Chinese ambassador also expressed his warmest greetings and best wishes to all the Irish friends on the occasion of the celebration of the two Chinese holidays. Enditem
COLUMBUS, OH / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / GOSH Enterprises today announced the promotion of BIBIBOP Asian Grill VP of Marketing, Brian Hipsher to the role of Chief Marketing Officer for all three of GOSH's restaurant brands: Charleys Philly Steaks, BIBIBOP Asian Grill, and Lennys Grill and Subs.

As Chief Marketing Officer, Hipsher will guide marketing strategy, menu development, digital innovation, advertising, and the overall brand experience for each of GOSH's brands. He will report directly to President of Shared Services, Boyd Hoback.

"Brian has done a great job building a strong marketing team at BIBIBOP Asian Grill, transforming both the culture and approach to the business," said Hoback. "We're excited to have him take the reins as CMO for all three brands. His leadership, marketing expertise, and ability to make things happen will be key in guiding each brand."

Hipsher brings to GOSH more than 25 years of marketing, operations, and human resources experience with brands such as City Barbeque, Mettler Toledo, and 7-Eleven. In his first year at BIBIBOP, Hipsher and team added online ordering, launched a new loyalty app, developed the brand guide, achieved double digit comparable store sales growth, and created the foundational marketing processes and systems needed to grow from 27 to 42 locations and beyond.

"What a blessing to get to work alongside and develop the talented teams that will make our big plans come to life," said Hipsher. "It's an incredible opportunity to enhance and develop these three unique brands during what will be an amazing time of growth and transformation."

About GOSH Enterprises, Inc.

Columbus, OH based GOSH Enterprises, Inc. is a multi-brand restaurant company whose portfolio includes: Charleys Philly Steaks, BIBIBOP Asian Grill, and Lennys Grill and Subs. Founded in 1986, over 600 locations today across the globe serve Charleys signature grilled-to-order cheesesteaks in addition to loaded Gourmet Fries and refreshing real fruit Lemonades. BIBIBOP Asian Grill is all about well-being, serving healthy & affordable Asian food at 42 restaurants nationwide. Most recently, Lennys Grill and Subs joined GOSH's family of brands. Hailing from Memphis, TN, Lennys Grill & Subs offers unique grilled and deli sandwiches crafted with freshly baked bread, premium meats sliced to order, and freshly prepared toppings.

Story continues

Media Contact:

Maggie Mackie

(614) 652-6808

mmackie@charleys.com

SOURCE: Charleys Philly Steaks





View source version on accesswire.com:

https://www.accesswire.com/608774/Brian-Hipsher-Announced-As-Chief-Marketing-Officer-For-Gosh-Enterprises-Inc




Cellarius, Andreas, 1661. Harmica Macrocosmica is considered of the most glamorous astronomical books ever published. Courtesy of The Linda Hall Library of Science, Engineering & Technology. The Virtual Rare Book Sessions offer a unique opportunity for educators to bring our vast science collection into the virtual classroom to engage students in science with a broader social, historical and cultural context.

The Linda Hall Library  an independently funded research library dedicated to science, engineering and technology  today announces availability of its new Virtual Rare Book Sessions. In collaboration with educators, the Library will tailor rare book presentations to enrich STEM curriculum for high school, undergraduate and graduate coursework.

The Virtual Rare Book Sessions invite educators to incorporate the Librarys notable collection into coursework with topics related to the Librarys collecting areas from astronomy, math, engineering and natural history to microscopy, electricity, printing, and scientific exploration.

Our new Virtual Rare Book Sessions represent another step forward in bringing science to life in relevant, engaging ways for educators and students in both our Kansas City metropolitan community and around the world, said Lisa Browar, president of the Linda Hall Library. In addition to our online public programs and digital exhibitions, the Virtual Rare Book Sessions offer a unique opportunity for educators to bring our vast science collection into the virtual classroom to engage students in science with a broader social, historical and cultural context.

How to Schedule a Virtual Rare Book Session

Sessions are approximately one hour and include a short history of the Library, an overview on how to use the Librarys collection, and an interactive look at selected rare books from the Librarys world-renowned history of science collection. Sessions can be scheduled Monday through Friday, 9 AM  4 PM Central at no charge. To schedule, visit https://www.lindahall.org/virtual-book-session or contact the collections team at collections@lindahall.org

Largest Science Collection in the World

With over 39 miles of shelves with more than 1.5 million volumes, the Linda Hall Library preserves and makes available the largest collection of rare science, technology, and engineering works in the world. The Librarys History of Science Collection includes books from the fifteenth century to the present, including first editions of many landmarks of science and technology (including rare books from Copernicus, Galileo, Newton, Darwin, Marie Curie, among others).

The collection also has significant holdings in astronomy, geology and paleontology, natural history, engineering, mathematics, and the physical sciences. Other scientific publications, such as star atlases and encyclopedic works of early natural history, are also well represented.

Linda Hall Library Digital Exhibitions in the Classroom

In addition to Virtual Rare Book Sessions, educators can incorporate the Librarys Digital Exhibitions into related coursework. The exhibitions feature the Librarys collection of rare books, photographs, manuscripts and artwork and include source links to the Librarys digital archives. Each exhibition is enriched with video presentations by renowned science experts who have presented at the Library. Educators and students can access the Librarys Digital Exhibitions on the Linda Hall Librarys website (http://www.lindahall.org/online-exhibitions/) at no charge:



Blade and Bone: The Discovery of Human Antiquity

Centuries of Civil Engineering

Drawn from Nature: Art, Science, and the Study of Birds

Flying Machines: A History of Early Aviation

Ice: A Victorian Romance

Napoleon and the Scientific Expedition to Egypt

Out of This World: The Golden Age of the Celestial Atlas

Paper Dinosaurs 1824-1969

Ribbons Across the Land: Building the U.S. Interstate Highway System

The Atomic Age

The Face of the Moon: Galileo to Apollo

The Grandeur of Life: A Celebration of Charles Darwin and the Origin of Species

The Land Divided, The World United: Building the Panama Canal

The Transcontinental Railroad

Thinking Outside the Sphere: Views of the Stars from Aristotle to Herschel

Voyages: Scientific Circumnavigations 1679-1859

Vulcans Forge and Fingals Cave

Womens Work: Portraits of 12 Scientific Illustrators from 17th to 21st Century

By the end of 2020, the Library plans to add Digital Exhibitions including Natures Fury: The Science of Natural Disasters; Connecting the Dots: The Science of CSI; and Mapping the Moon: Lunar Cartography from Galileo to Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter.

ABOUT LINDA HALL LIBRARY

As a world renowned independently-funded research library, the Linda Hall Library, located in the heart of Kansas City, Missouri, is dedicated to science, engineering and technology. Through our collections, programming, and cultural partnerships, the Linda Hall Library brings science to life in new and relevant ways that demonstrate the intersection of science and modern life. To learn more, visit http://www.lindahall.org.

###


Hong Kong: 687 receive honours, awards

The Chief Executive has awarded 687 people in this years Honours List in recognition of their significant contributions to Hong Kong or for their dedicated public and community service.

Four people - Andrew Leung, Bernard Charnwut, Chan Tung and Hui Wing-mau - received the Grand Bauhinia Medal.

Fifteen people received the Gold Bauhinia Star, 22 the Silver Bauhinia Star, and 40 the Bronze Bauhinia Star.

The Gold Medal for Bravery was posthumously awarded to Senior Customs Officers of the Customs & Excise Department Iris Ng and Ben Lai, and Customs Officer of the department Wong Cheuk-bond. They died while carrying out duties in January.

The medal was also awarded to Cheng Chak-yin who rescued a passenger during a case of arson in February 2017. The rescue happened in a compartment of a Mass Transit Railway train where he sustained serious burn injuries while using his bare hands to smother the flames on a woman set alight by an arsonist.

Fourteen people were awarded the Distinguished Service Medal for disciplined services & the Independent Commission Against Corruption, and 47 the Meritorious Service Medals for disciplined services & the ICAC.

Seventy-eight people received the Medal of Honour, 195 the Chief Executive's Commendation for Community Service and 253 the Chief Executive's Commendation for Government/Public Service.

The Government pointed out that the number of award recipients in the Chief Executive's Commendation for Community Service and the Chief Executive's Commendation for Government/Public Service this year is exceptionally large.

This is to give recognition to meritorious performance by individuals involved in the handling of social incidents and the fight against the COVID-19 epidemic in the past year, it added.

The 2020 Honours & Awards and appointment of Justices of the Peace were announced on October 1 instead of July 1 this year to accord top priority to the fight against the COVID-19 epidemic and related matters.

Click here for the full Honours List.

This story has been published on: 2020-10-01. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Decision 2020

Affordable housing, a schools challenge, and voting tips.

by James Leonard

From the October, 2020 issue

A pandemic changes everything--including voting patterns.



Absentee ballots made up three-quarters of the votes cast in the August primary, and of those, 40 percent were cast more than two weeks before the election, a trend local officials expect to be even more pronounced in the November 3 general election. To reach those early voters, the Observer has moved up our election coverage a month.



We won't revisit the city council race since the winners of the Democratic primaries are unopposed. And though five Republicans are running for the city's seats on the county board of commissioners, and two for the state house of representatives, none is likely to win in heavily Democratic Ann Arbor--especially with the presidential election boosting turnout.



One important race could still go either way: the nonpartisan contest for circuit court judge. Amy Reiser finished third in August's primary and was eliminated, narrowing the general election to Nick Roumel and Tracy Van den Bergh (Inside Ann Arbor, August, Calls & Letters correction, September). The outcome may depend on which way Reiser's supporters turn.



Millages



"My jaw dropped," says Chuck Warpehoski. "Like, absolutely dropped."



That's how the Ann Arbor Community Foundation board member reacted when he learned that in a July poll, 77 percent of the voters said they'd support an affordable housing millage in November.



The former city councilmember's jaw wasn't the only one to drop. When work on a housing millage started last fall, he remembers telling folks that "2020 might be our best shot because of progressive voter turnout" for the presidential election. But "then Covid hit. I thought we were dead."



The last effort to pass a housing millage, in 2008, ended with the Great Recession. Many thought the pandemic made it even less likely now. But then, Warpehoski says, Amanda Carlisle and Aubrey Patino, executive directors respectively of the Washtenaw Housing Alliance and Avalon Housing, warned that the city was "looking at a 40 percent increase in homelessness" due to Covid-19.



Carlisle

...continued below...
Enovacom will consolidate and develop the Orange Business Services Healthcare division from October 1, 2020

2020 The ambition of Orange Business Services, through Enovacom, is to become one of the leaders in digital Health in France

The healthcare sector is a key focus of Orange's 2025 strategic plan. As part of this, Orange Business Services is reorganizing its healthcare entities, Enovacom and Orange Healthcare, to fully meet the needs of the players in this sector, which is currently undergoing a digital transformation, both in France and abroad.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201001005451/en/

Enovacom and Orange Healthcare, to fully meet the needs of the players in the health sector, which is currently undergoing a digital transformation (Photo: Orange Business Services)

As of today, Orange Healthcare B2B activities have been transferred to Enovacom. With a team of 250 people, this unique hub will boost synergies and support the digital shift in healthcare. With headquarters in Marseille, the integrated team also supports the Group's commitment to reinforce its strategic activities in local regions, as close as possible to local players and talent. This transformation is being complemented by an ambitious recruitment plan.

"Orange Business Services understands the need to gain momentum in the healthcare sector. Thanks to this integration, Enovacom-which is already a leader in terms of interoperability in France-will see its expertise enhanced and expand its portfolio to offer tailored solutions for all healthcare players. Enovacom will be able to take advantage of the strengths of the Orange Group to face the many healthcare challenges ahead and take part in larger scale projects. Enovacom has all the attributes required to become a leader in e-health in France," says Pierre-Louis Biaggi, Senior Vice President, Digital and Data, Orange Business Services and CEO of Enovacom

"A new page of Enovacom's history is being written. By focusing on the healthcare ambitions of the Digital and Data unit of Orange Business Services from now on, we are taking on a new dimension. Now more than ever we need to work alongside those who care for us in order to improve medical devices. The support and expertise of Orange Business Services will help solidify the foundations of Enovacom solutions. Our commitment at present is to develop new products to meet the current and future needs of our 1,600 customers," adds Laurent Frigara, Deputy CEO of Enovacom.

Within the Digital and Data business unit, Enovacom will be led by Laurent Frigara and Renaud Luparia Co-founders and current Deputy CEOs. The organization, whose 250 employees are spread across Marseille, Paris, London and Montreal, hosts the Healthcare activities of Orange Business Services, structured around three main Departments:

The Operations and Transformation Department under the leadership of Eric Pieuchot. This department will ensure the deployment and operation of services to customers while ensuring the compliance of processes and the security of operations related to ISO-27001- and HDS-certified Data Hosting activities.

- The Business Department, in particular commercial business in France, led by Laurent Moulin

- The Products Department, headed up by Frederic Bourcier, which will develop digital products and solutions adapted to the healthcare ecosystem.

The new structure's e-health software and services respond to four key challenges: health data protection, exchanges and sharing between players in the health ecosystem, patient journey digitization and health data utilization.

Enovacom is a specialist in the healthcare data journey and collects, transports, stores, processes, analyzes and shares data, and creates value in a secure way. Since 2006, the company has been supporting healthcare players in their digital transformation, in France and abroad, with innovative solutions to improve quality, the care path and patient experience. Enovacom will be able to rely on the expertise of Orange Business Services in digital and data, cyber, cloud, consulting and IoT to support healthcare players throughout their data journey.

About Enovacom

Enovacom joined Orange Business Services in 2018, and since October 1, 2020, consolidates all of its B2B activities dedicated to the health sector. With 250 experts based in Marseille, Paris, London and Montreal, Enovacom offers software and services dedicated to e-health to support healthcare establishments in their digital transformation. The expertise of Orange Business Services in network, cyber, cloud, IoT, analytics and consulting means that it can support healthcare providers throughout the data journey. Enovacom is a key player in projects involving innovation and cooperation with the entire ecosystem to develop new services and use cases. Enovacom has more than 1'600 public sector customers.

About Orange Business Services

Orange Business Services is a network-native digital services company and the global enterprise division of the Orange Group. It connects, protects and innovates for enterprises around the world to support sustainable business growth. Leveraging its connectivity and system integration expertise throughout the digital value chain, Orange Business Services is well placed to support global businesses in areas such as software-defined networks, multi-cloud services, Data and AI, smart mobility services, and cybersecurity. It securely accompanies enterprises across every stage of the data lifecycle end-to-end, from collection, transport, storage and processing to analysis and sharing.

With companies thriving on innovation, Orange Business Services places its customers at the heart of an open collaborative ecosystem. This includes its 27,000 employees, the assets and expertise of the Orange Group, its technology and business partners, and a pool of finely selected start-ups. More than 3,000 multinational enterprises, as well as two million professionals, companies and local communities in France, put their trust in Orange Business Services.

For more information, visit www.orange-business.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter and our blogs.

Orange is one of the world's leading telecommunications operators with revenues of 42 billion euros in 2019 and 253 million customers worldwide at 30 June 2020. Orange is listed on the Euronext Paris (ORA) and on the New York Stock Exchange (ORAN). In December 2019, Orange presented its new "Engage 2025" strategic plan, guided by social and environmental accountability. While accelerating in growth areas, such as B-to-B services and placing data and AI at the heart of innovation, the entire Orange Group will be an attractive and responsible employer.

Orange and any other Orange product or service names included in this material are trademarks of Orange or Orange Brand Services Limited.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201001005451/en/

Contacts:

Press:

Elizabeth Mayeri, Orange Business Services, elizabeth.mayeri@orange.com, +1 212 251 2086
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has selected its 14-member public advisory committee as the state updates its elk management plan.

The members were selected from a pool of 59 applications, with FWP citing a diversity of perspectives and locations in its selections.

An elk management plan has existed since 1992 and was last updated in 2005. The nearly 400-page document details the states strategy for managing elk as a species given diverse land ownership, habitats and the role of hunting.

Lindsey Parsons, FWPs deer/elk coordinator, in a previous interview cited the many changes in Montana since 2005 when asked about a need to update the plan.

Land use has changed, populations and where they occupy, large carnivore recovery in the state, so a lot of things have happened that affect elk populations and habitat but also our ability to harvest them, she said in March.

The current plan offers a framework of 44 elk management units with population goals called objectives, which biologists believe the units can support. Objectives are based on a balance of maintaining healthy herds and habitat while also addressing conflicts and damage to private land. Populations in some parts of Montana grew well above objectives in recent years leading to shoulder seasons and additional licenses in many areas.

The advisory committee plans to meet three times starting next month and offer recommendations around the end of the year, Parsons said.

Committee members according to their applications are:

Karie Decker of Missoula is director of habitat stewardship for the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

Ed Fryer of Melstone is a retired ranch manager who said he brings perspectives from a property owner and private industry.

Ren Gardner of Miles City is a partner in multiple eastern Montana businesses and says he would bring a nonpartisan perspective of the financial positives and negatives of the elk plan.

Casey Hackathorn of Missoula describes himself as an avid hunter primarily on public lands who has participated in several collaborative working groups.

Everett Headley of Stevensville is the lead instructor of the Montana Master Hunter Program focused on hunter and landowner issues.

Druska Kinkie of Pray is a rancher with perspectives on both agriculture, hunting and outfitting.

Kevin Koss of Malta is a rancher and hunter with perspectives on the challenges of elk management in his area.

Joel LaLiberty of Belgrade is a member of the Montana Farm Bureau Federation and hunter touting his experience working in natural resource management groups.

Ali Morgan of Choteau is a packer and guide interested in addressing the demographics of hunters, chronic wasting disease and the effectiveness of shoulder seasons.

Patrick Roth of Rexford is a hunter and former logger who has hunted elk in Montana for 54 years.

Justin Schaaf of Fort Peck served on the board of the Montana Chapter of Back Country Hunters and Anglers and as the conservation director of the nonprofit Keep it Public, which he helped establish. He brings a number of perspectives on elk management with some herds growing and others struggling and working through conflicts.

Mark Schwomeyer of Lewistown is a hunter and officer in Montana bowhunting organizations. He would like to see all sides give to reach a collaborative elk management plan for the future.

Marcus Strange of Helena is program and partnership director of the Montana Wildlife Federation and calls for a scientific, balanced and collaborative approach to ensure robust elk herds.

Dan Vermillion of Livingston is an outfitter and former chairman of the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission. He believes the current plan is a good document but needs to be updated to remove flashpoints between landowners and FWP and to better reflect changes in the state.

The committee will meet Nov. 19, Dec. 2-3 and Dec. 16-17 on Zoom at http://fwp.mt.gov/fishAndWildlife/management/elk/citizensGroup.html.

The committee will take public comment during meetings in December, but the recommendations are only the beginning of a long public process, Parsons said. FWP will take the recommendations to the commission and then go out for public comment.

We still have a lot of building to do after this initial step, she said. Once we get through this we go through multiple other avenues like public meetings, surveys, etc. Depending on the COVID situation wed like to be having public meetings next summer and fall.

Reporter Tom Kuglin can be reached at 447-4076 @IR_TomKuglin

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One of the biggest fears for Debbie Conner and her husband was their daughter being forgotten. Juliane Conner Lovelady passed away unexpectedly after a brief illness on Dec. 7, 2014 and was an advocate for rescue animals, spending much of her life dedicated to helping Texas Animal Society and saving dogs and cats.

On HoustonChronicle.com: TOMAGWA Tomorrow Campaign seeks communitys help to endure the COVID-19 pandemic

Julianes Compassion for Critters has held an in-person fundraiser the past three years in Tomball to raise money for the society. The organization was preparing to host the event in the fall, but Connor ultimately chose to cancel in July due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

With supporters asking about the benefit, the group decided to hold its fourth annual event virtually as an online basket raffle with tickets on sale via their website from Oct. 1 through Oct. 30 and a live Facebook event to draw the winners on Nov. 1.

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We were struck with a profound grief that lives forever in our hearts, Conner said. We are continuing to do the work that Juliane would be doing if she were alive. Juliane had a giving spirit and was passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of others.

Julianes Compassion for Critters is devoted to helping animals in need by donating all proceeds from events and sales to the Texas Animal Society in memory of Juliane.

Conner said the annual event helps the Conner family, surrounding family and friends to move forward in a positive way as they work together to support a cause that Juliane was passionate about in rescuing, fostering and adopting homeless animals in need.

In addition to animal rescue and supporting the society, Juliane also organized volunteers and fundraisers for the Montgomery Food Bank, Montgomery County Womens Center, Montgomery County Animal Shelter and Adopt a Family for Christmas.

She would have a whole slew of them at one time, they were like a second family to her, Conner said. Even on the day that she passed away, she was on the phone getting one of her foster dogs placed with a loving family.

Community outreach

Kathy McHugh and Conner are the primary organizers of the fundraiser each year. But Conner said her friend McHugh is the heart of the event, who creates and manages all posts for the Facebook page as well as the webpage.

Conner said the event was harder to put together this year and there was a learning curve in adjusting to an online format. She said its a team effort to plan, organize, and execute the fundraiser each year and said they are lucky to have many volunteers including Lone Star College-Tomball Occupational Therapy students and professors.

Im just blessed to have so many friends that help with this event to raise money for the animals that have been rescued by Texas Animal Society, Conner said.

Texas Animal Society Treasurer Sue Probst said Julianes event is the societys major fundraiser of the year, which enables them to help the community out with spay and neuter vouchers and vaccinations to help people who own pets but dont have the money to afford the expenses.

Probst said they are one of the few rescues in the area who will take on difficult medical cases, adding that their veterinary bill is over $60,000 every year.

Julianes fundraiser makes it possible for us to be able to say yes when we have these animals cross our path where a lot of rescues just dont have the resources to fund that, Probst said. Its an amazing event, Juliane was an amazing human being. I knew her personally, for many years we worked together in rescue.

Drawing prizes

The event usually features vendors, a DJ, and games for kids, with a focus on getting families together and making memories. Last year, there was a dog costume contest and Conner said for this year they took a poll on the Facebook page to see what the online theme would be.

Conner said people asked for the continuation of basket raffles, the organizations biggest money maker, and also wanted to purchase merchandise.

She said the website  jcompassion4critters.weebly.com  will have a 50/50 raffle and merchandise for sale such as T-shirts, hoodies for pets, and mugs imprinted with a new design, Pets are Essential, created by graphic designer Lauren Blyskal, who also created the organizations logo years ago and donates her time to rescue groups.

We were just really honored that she would reach out to us and offer to do that, Conner said. Each year, she helps us design T-shirts and this year she created a new design. Shes just a really talented young lady.

Conner said all 48 baskets were donated. Prizes include certificates from small businesses, snacks, treats for dogs and cats, movies, gift cards, fine wine, toys and beauty and house products.

I know Juliane would be honored and pleased to know that weve had 48 fabulous baskets donated, Conner said.

Each basket has a description and an approximate value. Conner said some friends have already agreed to help deliver baskets, Nov. 7, but that winners can chose to have them mailed as well, if the option is available.

She said people like the choice of picking which baskets they want to win, adding how some have purchased 100 tickets or more at a time; and they have already received three donation checks, including one for $500.

Its a true testament of the love and support of friends and family to help us celebrate Julianes legacy and keep her memory alive, Conner said.

Challenging circumstances

The fundraiser has raised more money each occasion, with $6,700 raised the first year and $8,300 in 2019  the most theyve raised so far, according to Conner.

With the event going virtual this year, Conner said the organization isnt sure what to expect. She said they made a portion of the funds that were raised last year through 13 vendors.

She said the group is trying to do everything they can to promote the event by mailing post cards to people that have previously been involved and passing out post cards to local businesses in Tomball and The Woodlands area.

Im just not real sure, I dont have a good feel for it. What Id like it to be, at least match what we got last year. Texas Animal Society needs it more than ever, Conner said.

Since the pandemic, Conner has helped dogs get adopted and promotes the society on social media.

Ive been fortunate enough to have five of my neighbors and friends adopt dogs from Texas Animal Society in the last six months, Conner said. So, thats been a blessing for them as well but its still challenging for them because of not being able to host the (adoption) events that theyve held in the past.

Conner said 100 percent of the money raised is donated to Texas Animal Society.

We tell people, its all going for a cause that was dear to Julianes heart, its a great cause, Conner said. We just appreciate all the support that weve received over the years, especially this year under the challenging circumstances. Were excited about moving forward with our event.

Probst said Julianes friends and family have kept her spirit alive in a great way to allow the society to be able to help these animals not only get into their forever homes but also vetted, spayed, neutered, and vaccinated for owners who cant afford it.

She said theyve treated at least 15 heart worm positive dog cases, which is expensive, and have been called on by local vet partners to take in animals and network to get them in a good home, especially this year, with multiple animals losing their owner due to illness.

All of the people who come together to support this event, its definitely far reaching in the local community, Probst said, and without that support, we would not be able to do what were doing  especially the community outreach piece, that just would not be something we could do.

alvaro.montano@chron.com
"...many will bring this procedure to their practice simply for the safety of the posterior approach coupled with this unique approach to SI joint fusion site preparation."

Captiva Spine, Inc., developer and distributor of intuitive spine fusion devices, announced today they received a Notice of Allowance by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for their patent on a novel posterior SI Fusion System named TransFasten. Specifically, the systems precision form of Quadracentric carpentry which prepares the sacroiliac joint (SI) intended for an easy, safe, and repeatable SI joint fusion surgery.

Recognizing the growing adoption of SI fusion procedures, we are committed to the continued development of differentiated and proprietary devices that clearly provide incremental improvement. This patent marks another milestone for Captiva Spines growing patent portfolio, said Dale Mitchell, President of Captiva Spine. TransFastens form of carpentry is truly aligned with key principles of achieving ease of use, stabilization, and fusion while utilizing a safe posterior approach.

The TransFasten technique is intended to provide stabilization of the SI joint, with minimal disruption to anatomy, in a minimally invasive procedure. This patented Quadracentric site preparation is a form of mortise and tenon carpentry and requires one implant; many other systems require multiple implants or large screws. TransFasten is a precision-machined allograft with a large graft window that precisely fits within the sizeable cross-joint decortication for creating a biologic fusion. This posterior procedure provides a safe approach to dock minimal instrumentation. It prepares the SI joint site which includes the richest proliferation of osteogenic cells while placing the implant in a predetermined position. Altogether, TransFasten may potentially reduce operating room and fluoroscopy time.

As Captiva Spine continues to introduce TransFasten, many will bring this procedure to their practice simply for the safety of the posterior approach coupled with this unique approach to SI joint fusion site preparation, said Dr. Robert E. Lins, The Center for the Bone & Joint Surgery, and inventor of TransFasten. Because the sacroiliac joints transfer forces from the upper body to the lower extremities, they are subject to trauma and chronic degenerative changes. I truly believe the TransFasten procedure will enable the medical community to better serve their patients suffering these degenerative changes in the future.

Inquiries from physicians and industry professionals looking to incorporate intelligent and innovative technologies into their offerings are always welcome. Captiva Spine can be contacted directly by phone at 561-277-9480 or via their contact page on their website.

Discover strength through connections at http://www.captivaspine.com and read more about TransFasten Posterior SI Fusion System.

About Captiva Spine, Inc.

Captiva Spine is a privately-owned medical device organization founded in 2007. Captiva Spine supports spine surgeons, tenured spine distributors, and healthcare facilities in providing patients with progressive spinal care and an obsessive focus on quality; they strive to create and maintain sincere, honest, collaborative relationships. Above all else, valuing their relationships fosters the mutual trust and openness needed for Captiva Spine to be a conduit of high quality, smart, elegant, and intuitive patient solutions. Captiva Spine operates as a family of industry professionals that take pride in delivering these solutions responsibly and ethically while never losing sight of what they refer to as the Human Factor. Finding joy in their daily lives and serving the needs of their customers with sincere, professional enthusiasm.
Ongole : , Oct 2 (IANS) Amid rising security challenges in the country, intensifying radicalisation and communal sentiments, Andhra Pradesh's Prakasam district police Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team, one of the first in India, has carried out an anti-terror exercise to enhance it preparedness.

"With the rising communal sentiments and radicalization of youth, police should have the capacity to undertake high risk anti-terror operations to serve and protect the citizens," Prakasam district superintendent of police (SP) Siddharth Kaushal told IANS.

Ongole town is 152 km south west of Vijayawada.

He said the district police should not wait for special forces to arrive from faraway hubs in crucial scenarios such as urban warfare and high-risk operations.

Raised and deployed in the district by Kaushal, the SWAT team has completed a year, aimed at undertaking high risk operations which the normal district police cannot do.

As part of their training, the SWAT team has been regular conducting reconnaissance operations, recces and real life firing even during the Coronavirus pandemic.

The urban warfare specialist team finds even more relevance at a time when communal politics are finding their way into the state, which has been immune to such religious politics until now, being a beacon of communal harmony.

"Our SWAT team has gone around important places in the district, like the Bhiaravakonda temple and Ravi Priya mall. We have done recces and studied all the entry and exit points. Every week our team goes and conducts reconnaissance of all these potential targets," he said.

The SP said it is important for the district police to have some capacity to respond to situations, rather than completely depending on experts to arrive.

He cited the example of 2008 terrorist attacks in Mumbai when the police department was brought to its knees for lack of urban warfare experts like a SWAT team.

Though the London SWAT was raised after the 2005 tube bombings, he said it was not used much but there needs to be a team on standby for incidents which may occur in a generation or five or 10 years.

Kaushal reminded that the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested Islamic State (IS) terrorists in the neighbouring states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala and also the masterminds of serial bomb blasts in Hyderabad.

In 2013, a terrorist was nabbed during a pilgrimage in Tirupati.

Amid these kinds of developments, Kaushal reviewed the preparedness of the SWAT team, and gave them instructions on how to deal with situations such as hijacks, attacks on religious structures, bomb situations and others.

He demonstrated advanced firing techniques at Chimakurti firing range to the SWAT commandos.

The team has also equipped themselves with special training in room intervention, counter-ambush and disaster response management, including the Israeli martial art Krav Maga in Hyderabad.

Besides the SWAT team, the Intelligence Special Branch - II, which looks into terror and communal cases has also been engaged in the mock drill, discussing various possible scenarios.

All districts in the southern state have already been instructed to raise SWAT teams.
A 71-year-old Conroe man is being accused of sexually assaulting two small girls after offering them candy and authorities are looking to see if there are other alleged victims.

Dalton Wayne Campbell is being charged with two counts of aggravated sexual assault of a child, a first-degree felony. Campbell was taken into custody Friday and is being held on a combined $140,000 bond, according to Montgomery County Jail records.

On May 14, a Montgomery County Sheriffs detective started investigating allegations of sexual assault involving two girls, ages 4 and 5, who were neighbors of Campbells. The girls had been removed from their home by Child Protective Services. Once in CPS custody, the two made accusations against the man they addressed as Mr. Campbell, according to a probable cause affidavit.

BREAKING NEWS UPDATES: Get your Houston breaking news alerts delivered to your Inbox

A relative of the alleged victims told CPS that Campbell was a lonely old man who would offer the girls and other neighborhood kids candy to visit him. Another relative of the girls described Campbell as creepy and said children in the neighborhood were warned to stay away from him, according to charging documents.

The detective on the case spoke to two parents who said Campbell offered their children candy to try to lure them to his house and even tried giving one child a bicycle. A mother said she had to run Campbell off her property on more than one occasion, including when he climbed the yard fence to join her kids in a small plastic pool without her permission, according to court records.

Campbell also intentionally sought out employment throughout his life that put him into close contact with children, read a sheriffs office statement on Wednesday afternoon.

LATEST UPDATES: Montgomery County COVID-19 cases top 11K; deaths remain at 140

Anyone who has been in close contact or whose children were in close contact with Campbell are being asked by detectives to contact the sheriffs office at 936-760-5800, reference case number 20A156159.

jose.gonzalez@chron.com

twitter.com/jrgzztx
White actors, writers and directors still dominate Broadway stages, according to an annual report released on Wednesday by the Asian American Performers Action Coalition in partnership with the American Theater Wing.

About 20 percent of shows in the 2017-18 season on Broadway and Off Broadway stages were created by people of color, the report found. Nearly two-thirds of roles were filled by white actors on Broadway, and about 94 percent of directors were white.

The study examined the citys 18 largest nonprofit theaters, as well as all 41 Broadway stages. It is a snapshot of a single season, and varies each time it is done. In the seasons since 2017-18, several shows with casts that feature a high percentage of performers of color  including the musicals Aint Too Proud, Tina, Hadestown and West Side Story, as well as Slave Play and A Soldiers Play  have been staged on Broadway.

The study found that Off Broadway theaters invested as much as six times as much in white actors as they did in actors of color. It noted that a similar gap likely exists on Broadway stages, but it could not say for certain because Broadway theaters do not publish their negotiated salaries.
PITTSBURGH, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The Pittsburgh Business Times named Net Health as a winner of a 2020 Fast 50 Award as one of the fastest growing private companies in the Pittsburgh region. Net Health's CEO Josh Pickus accepted the award on behalf of the company at the 2020 Fast 50 Awards' virtual celebration on September 29.

Criteria for the award included gross revenues and exceptional growth rates between 2017 and 2019 by a western Pennsylvania-based, locally owned for-profit corporation, proprietorship or partnership. Net Health was among the top five fastest growing companies in Pittsburgh in the $75M - $125M revenue range.

While the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic were not reflected in the revenue and growth reported for Fast 50 List, the virtual event addressed the pivotal topic by connecting with some of the winners on how the pandemic has affected their business. The Fast 50 winners were counted down throughout the virtual event in order of their growth.

The Pittsburgh Business Times asked Net Health how the company has adapted its business this year to adjust to the rapidly changing, challenging pandemic. CEO Pickus explained: "We executed a rapid expansion of our software products to make secure telehealth capabilities available to healthcare providers in 14,000 facilities. The company was well positioned to respond quickly to make its cloud-based software readily accessible to medical providers across the continuum of care. In addition, we rapidly transitioned our employees to work from home, and because of the success of these efforts, we rolled out a permanent, employee-friendly, Work from Anywhere policy."

Pickus reflected on how the company's solid foundations of processes, technology and teams enabled these changes to be made swiftly and successfully. "I am proud of our dedicated, hard-working and forward-thinking employees," he said. "This award is for everyone at Net Health."

About Net Health

Net Health is reuniting caregivers with their calling through cloud-based software for specialty medical providers across the continuum of care. Net Health's interoperable EHRs deliver end-to-end solutions that ensure compliance, improve outcomes, empower providers and inspire care. The company serves over 14,000 facilities, including 98 percent of the largest hospital chains, two-thirds of skilled nursing facilities and many leading hospice organizations and private practices. Net Health is a portfolio company of The Carlyle Group, Level Equity and Silversmith Capital Partners. www.nethealth.com.

SOURCE Net Health Systems, Inc.

Related Links

nethealth.com


The liberals' worst nightmare has come to pass: Ruth Bader Ginsburg died during the Trump administration. Many supporters had urged her to retire during Obama's tenure so he could appoint her leftist successor. But with arrogant defiance, Ginsburg stayed on the bench, certain, no doubt, that President Hillary Clinton would name her successor.

Reality's one tough customer.

Now President Trump has nominated Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court. We'll let all the others recount her unimpeachable credentials. Suffice to say, Mrs. Barrett is at least as qualified for the bench as was Mrs. Ginsburg. Ginsburg was confirmed 96-3 in just 50 days. Historically, it doesn't take long to confirm Supreme Court justices, so let's dispense with that straw man. There's plenty of time before Election Day.

A devout Catholic, Barrett will endure the unrelenting slings and arrows of oh, so tolerant Democratic senators (should they even decide to attend the hearings) and the ever fair-minded liberal MSM. Her seven children will be presented as exhibits of evidence of her unsuitability to serve, proof that anyone who would choose to raise seven children in a stable household with a spouse, complete with homework, birthday parties, and new clothes, is someone who is hopelessly out of touch with today's new societal norms and is therefore incapable of rendering relevant judicial decisions in the modern world.

However, let's assume that Barrett survives all the procedural, legal, and personal attacks that the Democrats can muster and is confirmed to the Court. What then? Can conservatives be confident that Barrett will be the kind of Justice that brings a commonsense, constitutional, reliably traditional voice to the bench? Or will she soften over time; stray from her roots; and become more of an unpredictable, random vote?

Unfortunately, this softening seems to happen pretty often with conservative Republicans, whether it be judges or politicians. They wander from their conservative ideals, the ones that got them appointed or elected in the first place.

For politicians, the examples are endless. The much ballyhooed "Maverick of the Senate," John McCain, was celebrated by the liberal mainstream media because he frequently sided with the Democrats. Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan are two examples of "Never Trump" Republicans whom liberals love so much. So admirable and principled, no? The liberal media love to highlight NeverTrump Republicans as some sort of "proof" that President Trump is unworthy. When Romney ran for president, the liberal media portrayed him as the most misogynistic spoiled rich kid imaginable, complete with his infamous binders of women, his pretentious new house with its car elevator, and a foreign policy stuck in the 1980s. But these days, let him publicly rebuke President Trump, and suddenly he's a distinguished, veteran statesman, a steady voice in the Senate. His newfound liberal acceptance will no doubt evaporate before our very eyes now that he has pledged to support Barrett's confirmation.

While Thomas, Alito, and Gorsuch (with one glaring exception) are mostly reliable conservatives, the Court's undecided vote is always an erstwhile conservative. Sandra Day O'Connor was an uncertain vote before every big case. She was appointed by President Reagan in 1987 and thought to be a definite conservative-leaning judge prior to her appointment. David Souter, named by Bush I in 1990, ended up being a huge disappointment to conservatives. He regularly strayed from conservative orthodoxy and often sided with the Court's liberal faction. Anthony Kennedy, the judge named in wake of Robert Bork's politically charged rejection, was known as the "swing vote"  a term not even in existence before him. Kennedy earned the ire of conservatives several times, sometimes inexplicably citing foreign case law as precedent for American suits.

The biggest conservative disappointment in recent times has been Bush II appointee Chief Justice John Roberts. In his stunning deciding vote to uphold Obamacare in 2012, he sided with the liberal justices to retain the individual mandate. His reasoning was that the penalty for non-compliance amounted to a tax and that "the Constitution permits such a tax." Conservatives felt betrayed when they realized that Roberts was not going to be the dependable right vote they thought he'd be.

Kennedy, O'Connor, Souter, and Roberts  all were initially thought to be conservative, but their actual Supreme Court performances ended up being surprisingly moderate-to-liberal. The Supreme "drift" is always in the conservative-to-liberal direction.

The question is why. Why do Republicans turn soft and drift leftward, but Democrats never seem to drift to the right? There is no McCain analogue on the left, no "Maverick of the Senate" Democrat who votes often with the conservatives. We never seem to question whether the Democrats will hold their ranks or how many Democratic senators will bolt and vote the other way. Is there even the slightest doubt as to how Breyer, Sotomayor, or Kagan will vote? Was there ever even a scintilla of doubt as to how RGB was going to vote on contentious liberal-conservative issues? No. All four were and are reliably, completely rubber-stamp liberals, every single time.

As to why Republicans drift, this is tougher to pin down. One or a combination of the following could explain it:

Perhaps Republicans, realizing either consciously or reflexively that the mainstream liberal media cards are stacked against them, try in some way to curry favor with the hostile media: "Well, So-and-So is a 'reasonable' Republican, someone who has some fealty to the notion of honorable public service." Some Republicans covet such media approval. Democrats don't need to seek media approval  they already have it.

It's possible that the conservative mindset is more steeped in historic tradition, a high regard for law and order, and a respect for the Constitution as our guiding document than is the liberal mindset, so when a proposed policy seems contrary to a conservative's sensibilities, they honestly oppose it. The conservative mind feels no hesitation in being loyal to personal ethics over party dogma. Liberals are unencumbered by such quaint considerations and willingly sell the country down the river in an instant when their party asks them to.

Another possibility: Democrats are simply used to presenting disingenuous, fraudulent policies, such as racial and ethnic quotas that will never apply to them, wasteful "safety net" programs like SNAP that are riddled with corruption but are funded by "other people's money," and support for blatantly illegal sanctuary cities, where Democrats knowingly welcome dangerous people who degrade the area's standard of living, but whose American-born offspring will instantly become Democratic voters. For Democrats, looking the other way in the face of such deceitful, double-standard legislation has become easy. It's standard practice, and they feel no hesitation about doing it en masse, never straying.

Full circle, this brings us back to Judge Amy Coney Barrett. Assuming she is confirmed, what kind of Supreme Court justice will she prove to be? Will she be the dependable conservative her supporters hope for? Or will she turn into an unpredictable "swing vote"? Time will tell.
(CNN)  Google is tapping out of the super-expensive smartphone race.

With its latest line of Pixel devices, announced in an online event Wednesday, Google appears to be targeting a more cost-conscious user than the premium smartphones from competitors such as Apple and Samsung  many of which cost upwards of $1,000 and some as much as $2,000. The Pixel 5 starts at $699 and the Pixel 4a 5G starts at $499. Meanwhile, the Pixel 4a that launched earlier this year costs $399.

Those lower prices do come with some sacrifices. Both Pixel phones have less powerful processors and displays than the top devices from Samsung and Apple, and the Pixel 4a 5G is not waterproof, though the Pixel 5 is.

Japan will be the first country to get the Pixel 4a 5G on October 15, with the phone set to launch in eight other countries, including the United States, in November. The Pixel 5 will launch in eight countries on October 15 and in the United States on October 29.

Both of Google's new phones support 5G, the next generation of super-fast wireless networks. They are the latest in a growing slate of phones on the market built to connect to 5G, including models from Motorola, Samsung, Huawei, LG and others. Apple is widely expected to launch its own 5G-enabled phone next month.

But the relatively low price point of the Pixel devices could provide a more affordable entry point to the 5G ecosystem.

A camera with more control before and after you click

As it has with past models, Google is leaning heavily on software to help its smartphone cameras compete with the likes of the iPhone and Galaxy devices.

Both phones Google launched on Wednesday have the same front and rear camera system that Google described as its "best one yet," featuring a new ultra-wide lens and software that helps take sharper images.

Google is combining two of the Pixel's most popular features  Night Sight and Portrait Mode  to let users blur their backgrounds while shooting in darker environments. Another low-light feature called Portrait Light allows users to strategically add light to darker sections of a photo.

The new Pixel cameras also have new video features to help shoot more stable footage.

Google Assistant, wait on hold for me

Instead of listening to many minutes of tedious hold music, Google is introducing a new feature called Hold for Me. Google Assistant will wait on the line for you if a business with a toll-free number puts you on hold, and alert you when you're off hold and a representative comes on the line.

Google is addressing another pain point for users: running low on battery. Its new Extreme Battery Saver mode will allow you to pick what essential apps you want to keep on, while everything else gets paused. The company boasts this could increase battery life for up to 48 hours.

Both features will come to older generations of Pixel phones soon, too.

Google's TV system gets a refresh

Google also updated and rebranded some of its smart home devices with new TV and speaker offerings. The company announced a new version of its Chromecast streaming device, with a system called Google TV (similar to its existing Android TV operating system) that integrates several devices into one. Google TV's Watchlist lets you save movies and shows you want to watch, and add titles to the list from your phone or laptop.

The new Chromecast has its own remote with dedicated buttons for Netflix and YouTube, and will go on sale in the US for $50 starting Wednesday.

The company also unveiled a new smart speaker called Nest Audio, which it says packs a better sound and louder volume than its Google Home predecessors. The speaker ($99) will go on sale October 5 and comes in five colors, including black, white and light blue.

This story was first published on CNN.com Google ditches the super-expensive phone race with the 5G Pixel
Brandman University and Rio Salado College today announced an agreement to help students who earn associate degrees seamlessly transfer to baccalaureate programs. Working together, Brandman and Rio Salado will be able to provide students who select the transfer route a reliable roadmap to the degrees they want to earn, Brandman Chancellor Gary Brahm said.

Brandman University and Rio Salado College today announced a new partnership enabling students to earn an online associate degree with seamless transfers into selected online baccalaureate programs.

The programs are open to students throughout the United States. Brandman is headquartered in Irvine, California. Rio Salado is based in Tempe, Arizona.

Brandman and Rio Salado share a common mission to promote college completion via online learning. Both institutions specialized in distance learning courses for several years before the coronavirus pandemic prompted a widespread shift to online learning at colleges and universities from coast to coast. The schools also share a commitment to fostering a learning environment that promotes diversity, equity, inclusion and putting the needs of their students above all else.

We are committed to providing accessible and adaptable online pathways for students to achieve their goals, Rio Salado Interim President Kate Smith said. Beyond this present crisis, we look forward to this partnership providing innovative and flexible options for students who may be juggling multiple responsibilities, serving in the military, residing a prohibitive distance from an institution of higher education, or who simply prefer the flexibility and experience that this online partnership provides.

This partnership will enhance Brandmans and Rio Salados abilities to offer relevant degree programs to students who are looking for online programs because they are a safer option while the pandemic is still a public health concern, or because they are at a point in their lives at which online learning best matches their personal needs.

The partnership establishes articulated transfer pathways leading to bachelors degrees in business and information technology. Additional degree pathways will be created in the future.

Starting at a community college and transferring to a four-year university is a cost-effective pathway to a four-year degree, Brandman Chancellor Gary Brahm said. Working together, Brandman and Rio Salado will be able to provide students who select the transfer route a reliable roadmap to the degrees they want to earn.



Additional commentary from Brandman Chancellor Gary Brahm and Rio Salado College Interim President Kate Smith is available here.

The transfer pathways will also create value for students by enabling them to concentrate their time on classes leading to a degree and ensuring that students will earn a valuable credential  an associate of arts or science  midway through their college journey. Transfer pathways offer cost savings for students allowing them to benefit from Rio Salado Colleges affordable tuition rate while they complete their associate degree.

Federal data show Americans working in positions that generally require no greater credential than a high school diploma earned a median wage of about $38,000 last year. An associate degree opened the door to positions that paid a median wage of about $55,000 last year, and a bachelors degree could qualify a recipient for jobs that paid a median wage of about $75,000.

Working Americans with college credentials are also less likely to be unemployed during hard times. Labor Department figures covering April through August of this year show substantially lower unemployment rates among members of the workforce who have earned bachelors degrees. Similarly, people with associate degrees had lower unemployment rates than people who did not go to college.

Brandman and Rio Salado are regionally-accredited institutions and national leaders in online education with long records of helping students complete the transfer process. Serving more than a quarter million students online for more than 20 years, Rio Salado has been a leader and innovator in distance learning since 1978. A survey of 554 students who graduated from Rio Salado from 2014 to 2019 found that 91% indicated that the college met or exceeded their online learning expectations.

Rio Salado College has more than 40 additional partnerships with four-year schools within and beyond the Grand Canyon State, offering educational opportunities to communities across the country.

Brandman is well-adapted to educating transfer students. As a formal partner with the California Community Colleges Chancellors Office, Brandman guarantees admission to California community college graduates who earn an associate degree for transfer. Brandman students are typically working adults who already have some college credits to their name when they enroll, and federal College Scorecard data shows full-time transfer-in students have a 76% graduation rate within eight years of enrollment with Brandman.

ABOUT BRANDMAN UNIVERSITY

Brandman University is a private, nonprofit institution accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission. As part of the Chapman University System, Brandman blends a legacy of academic excellence with innovative programs and support services designed for students with busy schedules. The university offers undergraduate, graduate, credential and certificate programs designed to be relevant to more than 90 career paths. Brandman serves about 22,000 students, about 14,000 of whom are degree-seeking students, at 25 physical campuses in California and Washington, as well as online. Brandman offers fully-online courses for students anywhere in the United States and for military personnel serving abroad. For additional information, visit the universitys website.

ABOUT RIO SALADO COLLEGE

Rio Salado College is one of ten Maricopa Community Colleges and one of the largest online public community colleges in the nation, serving nearly 50,000 students annually with almost 30,000 online in 50 states and internationally. Founded in 1978 and headquartered in Tempe, Arizona, Rio Salado offers 600+ online classes, 130+ degree and certificate programs and general education courses. The college also provides support for dual enrollment, military and incarcerated students and serves as the largest provider of adult education in Arizona.
CNN anchor Jake Tapper eloquently described the first presidential debate as a hot mess inside a dumpster fire inside a train wreck.

The reporter wasnt the only person who felt frustrated by last night's debate between President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden. Many celebrities took their frustration out on their social media, live-tweeting while watching.

Cardi B, who has been vocal about her political stance (she was a Bernie fan and is now a staunch supporter of Biden), posted multiple videos on her Instagram to voice her feelings about the candidates.

In one video, the rapper is seen with the anime face filter on, talking about how she was offended by Trump talking about how Joe Bidens son Hunter struggled with a drug problem.

I feel like that was very unnecessary especially because Joe Bidens family has suffered through so much sh*t especially because his wife and one of his kids died in a car accident. You know what Im saying? the rapper asked her 76 million Instagram followers.

She continued, So you can imagine what kind of pain and what kind of s***t his son had to turn to for comfort, just like so many Americans have had to turn to for comforting...So it was such a low blow from Trump...It was so unnecessary and gross.

Justin Biebers manager, Scooter Braun, posted a video on Twitter where he looks straight into the camera with a straight face and says, This is how you do it President Trump, I condemn White Supremacy.

Mark Ruffalo, who has always been outspoken politically, voiced his concerns on Twitter. The actor wrote, "Donald showed he has no leadership qualities, he has shown that all he can do is denigrate and lie. You can't debate insanity. We have a lot coming our way and we need a leader who can hold it together under pressure not blow his stack. #TrumpUnhinged #BidenCalm #Debate2020.

The Marvel actor also retweeted posts about the debate, including many that called out the President for telling the neo-Nazi organization the Proud Boys to stand back and stand by.

Brie Larson also was feeling the stress of the debate and reminded her followers that theres nothing wrong with changing the channel.
YEREVAN.  There are reconnaissance and strike UAV activities in Vardenisand not only in that direction; but there are no active combat operations in that particular part of the border of the Republic of Armenia. Artsrun Hovhannisyan, a representative of the Ministry of Defense, told this to a briefing Thursday.

Referring to the issue of Azerbaijans engagement of Syrian militants he said: "The facts of the presence of militants have been recorded at the international leveland not only at the media level. You know that there has already been a corresponding reactions from the diplomatic representatives of the leading countries. It is, of course, the result of our brilliant diplomatic information work. It no longer raises doubts in anyone that Azerbaijan and Turkey have used the militants of international terrorist organizations; that evidence has been presented and is being presented. This raises no doubts in anyone, except the actual users, who persistently try and will try to conceal [this information]but in vain."

And whether there were approximate figures on how many militants have been transferred to Azerbaijan, Hovhannisyan answered: "Our services are working in that direction. But I cannot publish figures on how many thousands of people have been brought or are being brought [to Azerbaijan], or how many of them have died [in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone]. It is a matter of time, it is not difficult to find out."
United Nations  The U.N. on Thursday commemorated 25 years since a world declaration was agreed to in Beijing to advance women's rights. But progress is faltering, the U.N. says.

"Due to the pandemic, it is estimated that in 2021, 47 million women and girls will be pushed into extreme poverty, bringing the total to 435 million," the U.N. said in a report adding, "By 2021, for every 100 men aged 25 to 34 living in extreme poverty, there will be 118 women  a gap that is expected to increase to 121 women per 100 men by 2030."

So, what went wrong? Why are women's rights not where they were committed to a quarter of a century ago?

France U.N. Ambassador Nicolas de Riviere told reporters on Wednesday: "On women's rights, the concern is backsliding. When you stop moving forward, you go backward. There is no standstill."

"Women do two thirds of the work in the world, and get a tiny proportion of the reward," journalist and women's rights activist Gloria Steinem tells CBS News in a one-on-one interview Thursday, reflecting on the global summit.

Steinem said that the social justice movements  for women's rights, for racial justice, for LGBTQ rights  are all now "majority concerns" and there is a pushback in the U.S.: "So, it is a time in a way, a dangerous time, that we forget to honor, after a victory. You know, we relax, instead of understanding that there is a backlash and we're now in it."

"In some parts of the world, levels of femicide  the killing of women  could be likened to a war zone": U.N. chief says

U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres has made gender equality a flagship issue, underscoring the "relentless pushback against womens rights."

Opening the summit, he said: "In some parts of the world, levels of femicide  the killing of women  could be likened to a war zone."

On Thursday, the picture Guterres presented was particularly stark: "Women are still frequently excluded from peace negotiations, climate talks, and decision-making roles of all kinds. Worldwide, women have just 75% of the legal rights of men."

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"The World Bank estimates that it could take 150 years to achieve gender parity in lifetime earned income," Guterres said.

Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka seen May 29, 2019. / Credit: ALFREDO ESTRELLA/AFP via Getty Images

The Summit included more than 172 speakers, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Mexico's President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, and French President Emmanuel Macron, in addition to the U.N. speakers, led by the executive director of U.N. Women, Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka.

Of the 149 high-level speakers, 58% were women, according to the spokesman for the president of the General Assembly Brenden Varma said.

At the meeting, Macron announced a forum called Generation Equality to take place in Paris in summer of June 2021.

The U.N. report says more men between the ages of 25 to 54 are in the labor force than woman and the global gender pay gap is stuck at 16%. / Credit: United Nations

"There can be no equal future without the full and equal participation of all women and girls everywhere"

In one of the most riveting talks in the U.N.'s virtual leader-level women's summit at its 75th anniversary General Assembly meeting, Nomzamo Nxumalo Mbatha, a South African actress, human rights activist and U.N. refugee agency's Goodwill Ambassador said, "The world still has a far long way to go to achieve gender inequality." She cited fiindings from The Malala Fund that say because of COVID-19, half of all refugee girls in secondary schools will not return when classrooms reopen.

In terms of where to go next, Elizabeth Broderick, chair of a Working Group of the Human Rights Council, said the need is now "to avert rollback."

The U.S. chose to focus on the education of women with U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos this year. And U.S. Ambassador Kelly Craft, in an interview with CBS News, said efforts are being made around the world for women, such as in talks with the Taliban in Afghanistan "to make certain that we maintain the strides that Afghan women have made," such as participation in government.

U.N. Women, the agency that coordinates most of the world body's efforts on gender equality, gave a stark overview in its report for the event: 750 million women and girls alive today were married before their 18th birthday; 400 million women live in extreme poverty; and 243 million women are victims of violence from an intimate partner each year.

The U.N. says women aged 25-34 globally are 25% more likely than men to live in extreme poverty. / Credit: United Nations

It said that "hard-won advances are being reversed," that women currently hold just 25% at the tables of power across the board: Men are still 75% of parliamentarians, hold 73% of managerial positions, are 70% of climate negotiators and almost all of the peacemakers.

"This is the generation" that can make the change

But with all the steps back, several women leaders are positive about what needs to be done. Steinem said she does remember when it was worse.

"At the arc of history, as Martin Luther King said, it does move toward justice. But it's up to us to make that happen. So I just hope that we that we don't get a case of the 'shoulds,' you know, 'what should I do,' but rather we do whatever we can every day."

"It does depend on what we do and all of our small acts matter," she said. "I think if we have faith that those small acts are important  and we don't despair, looking at the large outrages, but just keep doing everything we can every day, then we'll get there."

And, in a passionate call for progress, the Mbatha said: "We have a collective responsibility to accelerate global action to realize women's rights and equal future as there can be no equal future without the full and equal participation of all women and girls everywhere."

"And this, this is the generation to accomplish that," she added.

Trump attempts to clean up "stand by" comment, earlier refusal to denounce white supremacists

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Donald Trump Jr. explains President Trump's debate stance by saying he's "a fighter"
Jaeger-LeCoultre is perhaps best known for its stylish dress watches, such as the classic Reverso or the Master Control. But the storied Swiss manufacture also makes a cracking divers watch: the handsome Polaris, which is one of the most underrated divers watches on the market.

RELATED: Best Jaeger-LeCoultre Watches To Buy In 2020

Jaeger-LeCoultre celebrates its long history of underwater excellence in 2020 with the release of their new Polaris Mariner collection, consisting of the Polaris Mariner Date and Polaris Mariner Memovox. The pair are a fantastic new addition to Jaeger-LeCoultres already impressive lineup, the latter in particular a true innovation that takes the brands iconic chiming watches into the wet.

The robust capabilities and distinctive aesthetic of the new Polaris Mariner Memovox (ref. Q9038180) pay direct homage to Jaeger-LeCoultres first diving watches. Water-resistant to 300 metres, the 42mm stainless steel watch features the self-winding Calibre 956  a direct descendant of Jaeger-LeCoultres first automatic alarm watch calibres.

With a new peripheral gong designed to allow for a transparent sapphire case-back, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris Mariner Memovox retains the signature school bell sound that lends such charm to Jaeger-LeCoultres alarm watches  the chiming still audible even deep underwater. The deep blue dial of the watch is especially tasteful, and befitting of the brands stylish character.

If youre more desk jockey than Jacques Costeau, the Polaris Mariner Date (ref. Q9068180) might be more to your taste. Slightly slimmer than its Memovox brother yet just as stylish and capable underwater if put to its paces, its the perfect companion for the modern gentleman.

To mark the launch of its new Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris Mariner collection, the brand released a short film made in collaboration with acclaimed British actor Benedict Cumberbatch titled In A Breath. In it, Cumberbatch draws the parallel between his longstanding practice of meditation and diving  and the impact that both have on our sense of time. Filmed in Rakino Island, New-Zealand during the height of COVID-19 restrictions, the film perfectly demonstrates the technical capabilities of the new Memovox timepiece, as well as Cumberbatchs love of diving and his meditative habits.

The new Polaris Mariner collection is available now  dive on in and check it out.
WA Premier Mark McGowan has met with staff at Port Hedlands quarantine site and thanked personnel from the police and armed forces, as well as healthcare workers for their efforts to contain the COVID-19 outbreak that originated on board a bulk carrier.

The Patricia Oldendorff remains off the Pilbara coast, with Health Minister Roger Cook saying on Wednesday he was hopeful the vessel would be able to leave local waters by October 10.

Mr McGowan confirmed on Thursday there had been no further infections reported from the ships crew, and two who had earlier tested positive for the coronavirus had since recovered.

Were doing our best to keep a very, very secure environment, he said. The measures are very, very significant. First class.
Kim Kardashian lovingly paid tribute to her beloved father, Robert Kardashian, with two throwback images and a heartfelt note on the 17th anniversary of his death.

In memory of the famed attorney, who passed away after a battle with esophageal cancer in 2003 at the age 59, the reality star reminisced on his legacy and life.

'Today my dad went to heaven 17 years ago,' the 39-year-old captioned a black and white childhood photograph posing nearly cheek-to-cheek with her dad.

In memory: Kim Kardashian lovingly paid tribute to her beloved father, Robert Kardashian, with two throwback images and a heartfelt note on the 17th anniversary of his death

She continued: 'I really can't believe it's been that long. I miss you so much dad. I could really use a law school study buddy.'

Additionally, she shared a glowing snap at a party with Robert and sisters, Khloe and Kourtney, who appeared to be holding onto a glass of white wine.

In the image, the famous siblings, who looked respectively around 16 to 21 years old at the time, had their arms wrapped each other and sport beaming smiles.

Beloved dad: In memory of the famed attorney, who passed away after a battle with esophageal cancer in 2003 at the age 59, the reality star reminisced on his legacy and life

The KKW Beauty mogul has been working to follow in her father's footsteps in recent years, as she continues studying the legal system to become a criminal justice lawyer.

In March, she spoke of how becoming a mother prompted her to begin a four-year apprenticeship with a law firm in San Francisco in 2018.

Speaking to Grazia, the beauty, who is a little more than a year into a four year law course, said: Becoming a mom has really opened up my heart, and its changed me.

'I really can't believe it's been that long. I miss you so much dad. I could really use a law school study buddy,' the mother-of-four wrote on her Instagram Story (Kim seen on her 16th birthday)

I dont know if this journey would have happened for me before I was a mom. I will do what I can to help keep on shouting the stories of these people Ive met.

The Keeping Up With The Kardashians star said she was 'prideful' that she could set an example for her children through her work and that a 'big part' of life should be giving back.

She is a mom to North, seven, Saint, four, Chicago, two, and Psalm, one, who she shares with husband Kanye West.

Just like dad: The KKW Beauty mogul is working hard to follow her father's footsteps, as she continues studying the legal system in the hopes of becoming a criminal justice lawyer

She said: 'Life becomes a little bit less about you than it used to be. So I love showing them that message: that they can really be in a business to help people, and that should be a big part of their lives.

Though Kim is not attending law school, she is eligible to take the bar exam through an alternative path known as 'reading the law', which allows students to take the test by apprenticing through a practicing lawyer or judge.

In conjunction with her Vogue US cover in May 2019, she took to her social media to share a lengthy post about her new study venture.

Evolving: Speaking to Grazia , the beauty, who is a little more than a year into a four year law course, said: Becoming a mom has really opened up my heart, and its changed me

'Last year I registered with the California State Bar to study law. For the next 4 years, a minimum of 18 hours a week is required, I will take written and multiple choice tests monthly,' she began.

'As my first year is almost coming to an end I am preparing for the baby bar, a mini version of the bar, which is required when studying law this way. Ive seen some comments from people who are saying its my privilege or my money that got me here, but thats not the case.'

She continued: 'One person actually said I should stay in my lane. I want people to understand that there is nothing that should limit your pursuit of your dreams, and the accomplishment of new goals. You can create your own lanes, just as I am. The state bar doesnt care who you are. This option is available to anyone whos state allows it.'

Gone too soon: Robert, who was an attorney that at one point represented O.J. Simpson, died of esophageal cancer in 2003 just two months after he was diagnosed (seen with his two eldest daughters)

Her father, who was an attorney that at one point represented O.J. Simpson, died of esophageal cancer just two months after he was diagnosed.

He was married to momager Kris Jenner from 1978 until 1991, when they very publicly went through a messy divorce.

While Robert was married to two more women in his lifetime (Jan Ashley from 1998 to 1999, and Ellen Pierson in 2003), he only had children with Kris.
Nicola Sturgeon and Peter Murrell will both give evidence to the Holyrood inquiry - ROBERT PERRY/AFP

Nicola Sturgeon has refused to say whether her husband had privately called for pressure to be put on police to investigate Alex Salmond, as she was accused of a shabby abuse of power for failing to order the release of evidence to MSPs.

The First Minister said it was not her place to confirm the authenticity of WhatsApp messages, apparently sent by her spouse and SNP chief executive Peter Murrell, and leaked to the media and MSPs probing the Salmond affair.

In the messages, allegedly sent by Mr Murrell the day after Mr Salmonds first court appearance on sexual harassment charges, he apparently said it was a "good time to be pressuring" police and would be good to know Met looking at events in London.

The second alleged message, sent 80 minutes later, says: TBH [to be honest] the more fronts he is having to firefight on the better for all complainers. So CPS [Crown Prosecution Service] action would be a good thing.

Mr Salmond was later cleared of 13 sexual assault charges at a trial in Edinburgh and he was never prosecuted south of the border.

On September 16th, I asked the SNP ahead of publication whether party chief executive Peter Murrell sent the Whatsapp messages on Alex Salmond.



Still no response fifteen days laterhttps://t.co/f3S3ujs50t  Paul Hutcheon (@paulhutcheon) October 1, 2020

Asked about the messages at First Ministers Questions by Ruth Davidson , Ms Sturgeon angrily rejected calls to confirm whether they were genuine.

"I do not think it is reasonable for me to be asked questions about things that other people might or might not have done, the First Minister said.

"Call the people who the messages are purported to come from and ask them the questions. Call me and I will answer for myself."

Ms Sturgeon has become embroiled in an increasingly bitter row with opposition MSPs over the probe into a botched investigation launched by her government into sexual harassment claims against her predecessor.

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She previously claimed the Holyrood committee would have access to any documents it wanted linked to the affair. However, the Scottish Government is refusing to hand over legal advice it received about the civil case and other documents, with Ms Sturgeon now saying she has recused herself of decision making.

Mr Salmond challenged the fairness of the Scottish Government probe in court, winning the case and more than 500,000 in costs, before later being cleared of criminal charges.

Ruth Davidson raised the messages at Holyrood - Jeff Mitchell/Getty

While police are now investigating how the messages came to be leaked, Ms Davidson said there was nothing to stop Ms Sturgeon confirming if her husband had sent them.

She said: Throughout this affair, the First Ministers excuse has been that she can swap hats whenever it suits her: Nicola Sturgeon who leads the SNP is not the same person as Nicola Sturgeon who runs the Scottish Government. That is complete nonsense and hides the truth, which is the shabby abuse of power that this affair has revealed.

The alleged messages from Mr Murrell will add weight to claims from Mr Salmond and his allies that he was the victim of a political conspiracy. Ms Sturgeon has dismissed the conspiracy claims as nonsense.

At Holyrood, Ms Sturgeon said she had already submitted substantial written evidence to the committee which it had not yet chosen to publish. She strongly rejected claims she had obstructed the inquiry.

She said: "I stand ready any time - today, next week, the week after that - to turn up at this committee and give evidence to it orally. I have not had an invitation to do that yet.

"It is a bit galling for me to hear, often members of the committee from the Conservative benches, somehow saying I am not answering questions.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister has banned the entry of media inside Hathras village as media has presented some important facts from the ground in front of the whole country, said Uttar Pradesh Congress. They have also revealed things regarding Yogi Jis jungle raj. So now the media has been banned, Uttar Pradesh Congress tweeted. Meanwhile, Ajay Kumar Lallu, President-Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee tweeted, In order to save power, efforts are being made to suppress and burn the truth, it is responsible for the torture of daughters. Sensitivity, morality is not left in the government. Presidents rule should be applicable in UP.

National Coordinator, AICC, SC Department stated that CM Yogi Adityanath banned the entry of media inside Bulgarhi, Hathras today. The 19-year-old victim died in Safdarjung Hospital on Tuesday. She was brought to the hospital on Monday from Aligarh Muslim University Medical College. An official had earlier said that the last rites were performed at the victims native place in the wee hours of Wednesday. All the four accused involved in the incident have been arrested.

Uttar Pradesh government on Wednesday announced that kin of Hathras gangrape victim will be given Rs 25 lakh as ex-gratia and a house, and a government job will be given to a member of the family. The government has formed a three-member SIT to probe the case and said the matter will be heard in the fast track court.

After being stopped by the tyrannical BJP govt in UP, we in the Congress delegation led by Shri @RahulGandhi & Smt. @priyankagandhi are walking to Hathras. pic.twitter.com/6VeN6fOlv8  K C Venugopal (@kcvenugopalmp) October 1, 2020

Also Read: Hathras politics: Rahul, Priyanka stopped on way to meet victims family, begin foot-march to Hathras

Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi and sister Priyanka Gandhi, partys general secretary in-charge of Uttar Pradesh were stopped on their way to Hathras by state authorities at Yamuna Expressway. Gandhis have begun a foot-march to meet Hathras rape victims family after their convoy was stopped. Uttar Pradesh authorities have imposed a ban on crowding and gatherings citing coronavirus pandemic. Barricades have been placed on the borders in the view of COVID 19. Congress workers are holding massive protests there.

Also Read: BSP supremo Mayawati asks imposition of Presidents rule in UP over Hathras, Balrampur incidents
EDWARDSVILLE  Southern Illinois University Edwardsville has selected Mesha Garner, MA, as director of student financial aid through a national search chaired by Kevin Wathen, SIUE director of military and veteran services. Garner assumed her duties on campus Thursday, Oct. 1.

Scott Belobrajdic, EdD, associate vice chancellor for enrollment management said Garner brings critically important experience to SIUE. Her previous roles as federal awards coordinator and policy manager at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and financial aid specialist at Illinois State University (ISU) provide SIUE with valuable insight regarding large campus financial aid operations and efficiencies, he said. SIUEs financial aid office manages more than $180 million in student aid annually. A working knowledge of large-scale operations is critical for the individual in the directors role.

A member of UW-Madisons financial aid team since 2017, Garner was involved in the development and implementation of its Buckys Tuition Promise, demonstrating her ability to guide SIUE in the roll out of the SIUE Commitment. I look forward to leading the SIUE financial aid team for the implementation of the new SIUE Commitment, Garner said. This program is a direct reflection of our financial commitment to students and their success. Moreover, we are sending a message that SIUE is accessible and affordable to Illinois students.

Garner also has a strong history working with marginalized groups on campus, including her role as chair of UW-Madisons Engagement, Inclusion and Diversity Committee. I have served on multiple committees, both campus-wide and divisionally, that strategize to hire, recruit and retain employees from marginalized groups, she said. Also, I have led a team of professionals to use an equity-based lens for the administration of financial aid to students and decreased mitigators that would prohibit marginalized students from financial access to education. Equity and access are important to me personally and professionally.

Prior to her arrival in Madison, Garner was a financial aid specialist at ISU from 2012-17.

Garner will lead an experienced SIUE financial aid team that supports undergraduates, graduate students and students enrolled in SIUE professional programs. She succeeds Sally Mullen who retired in May 2020 after serving SIUE for more than 30 years.

SIUEs student recruitment strategies align with Garners goal of creating access to students, which proved attractive to her.

I look forward to building and strengthening campus and community partnerships for the recruitment and retention of students, she said. As an Illinois native from Tinley Park, I feel it is our states responsibility to prepare the nations future leaders for success. To progress towards this goal, I am committed to leading this division with fairness, authenticity, innovation and intention. With these values at our core, I am confident that our goals will not only be met, but also exceeded.

Garner earned a bachelors in family and consumer science and political science, and a masters in political science/public administration from ISU. She is a currently pursuing a doctorate in education administration at ISU.
Ikeja Electric(I.E.) said it has fully complied with the the order from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to suspend the new Service Reflective Tariff (SRT) for the next two weeks.

The electricity distribution company confirmed the development in a public notice to its customers posted on its official Twitter account on Thursday.

The DisCo said : Dear Esteemed customers, this is to inform you that we have fully complied with the Order from the NERC to suspend the new Service Reflective Tariff (SRT) for the next two weeks.

 Within this period, the tariffs for all customers shall be based on rates applicable as at Aug. 31. 

Recall that NERC had on Wednesday ordered the 11 electricity distribution companies (DISCOs) to suspend the Sept. 1 tariff increment.

The commissions suspension order of the Multi Year Tariff Order (MYTO) 2020 signed by NERCs chairperson, James Momoh, was released on its website

The suspension followed a joint communique issued by the Federal Government and the labour unions.

The Federal Government agreed that the recent review in electricity tariffs would be suspended by the commission for a period of 14 days for further consultations that will lead to final negotiations between the parties.

The order by NERC said that from Sept. 28 to Oct. 11, the DisCos must revert all charges to the tariff existing as of Aug. 31.

READ ALSO:

This means that for the next two weeks, electricity consumers having power above 12 hours who were affected by the over 100 per cent tariff hike would revert to their old charges.

It said as empowered by Section 33 of the Electric Power Sector Reform Act ( EPSRA) 2005, the Minister of Power, Sale Mamman, could issue such a directive to NERC.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation,Boss Mustapha, and Mr Mamman were in the team that met with the labour unions on the issue.
Kerala-based private sector lender Dhanlaxmi Bank on Thursday said that its board has appointed a three-member committee of directors (CoD) to manage its business affairs after shareholders on Wednesday voted out managing director and CEO Sunil Gurbaxani. The committee of directors will include G. Subramonia Iyer as chairman and G. Rajagopalan Nair and P.K Vijayakumar as members, the bank said in a regulatory filing.

At the 93rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the bank held on September 30, 2020, the resolution for appointment of Sunil Gurbaxani as managing director & CEO was not approved by the shareholders, with 90.49 per cent voted against him. Gurbaxani was appointed for a period of three years with effect from February 2020.

The bank said that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), as requested by the board of directors, has approved an interim arrangement for formation of a committee of directors to exercise the powers of managing director and CEO till new appointment.

"As advised by RBI, the interim arrangement will not continue beyond four months within which the bank will complete the process of identification and appointment of a new MD and CEO," Dhanlaxmi Bank said in a BSE filing.

This happens to be second incident in recent past when where the shareholders have voted against the appointment of the managing director and CEO of the bank. On September 25, private lender Lakshmi Vilas Bank's shareholders had voted out seven directors, including the Managing Director and CEO, in the AGM.

In a separate development, the shareholders of the bank, at the AGM held on September 30, have approved the resolution for increasing the authorised share capital of the lender from Rs 300 crore to R 400 crore, subject to regulatory approval.

Meanwhile, shares of Dhanlaxmi Bank closed Thursday's trade at Rs 12.40, up 0.57 per cent, against previous closing price of Rs 12.33 on the BSE.

By Chitranjan Kumar

Also Read: Dhanlaxmi Bank shareholders vote out CEO Sunil Gurbaxani

Also read: RBI approves panel of 3 independent directors to run Lakshmi Vilas Bank
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Ghana faces 12 percent youth unemployment and 50 percent underemployment, according to a World Bank report reached by Xinhua on Wednesday.

The report titled Youth Employment Programs in Ghana, Options for Effective Policy Making and Implementation, described the challenge as enormous since the figures were higher than overall unemployment rates in Sub-Saharan African countries.

It said despite critical investments by both the government and the private sector, the challenge of youth unemployment intensified since job opportunities remained limited.

It, therefore, urged the Ghanaian government to introduce urgent actions in areas such as agribusiness, entrepreneurship, apprenticeship, construction, tourism, and sports, all of which have the potential to offer increased employment opportunities to deal with the challenge.

"Ghana's youth employment challenge is vast and requires an all-round, deliberate, and consistent response," the World Bank Country Director for Ghana Pierre Frank Laporte said.

Ghana's employment and labor relations minister Ignatius Baffour Awuah lauded the report for presenting "specific options to guide the government in the short-to-medium-term to enhance effective coordination of youth employment programs."
Australia's top agricultural bodies are moving ahead of the federal government on climate policy to shore up their lucrative export interests as China's new zero-emissions target creates fresh tensions in high-level trade negotiations.

On Wednesday, European Union and Australian chief negotiators discussed the climate chapters of a $85-billion free-trade deal. Minutes of the meeting show the EU said climate was a key issue and it would work with Australia on its commitments to the Paris agreement.

China has announced a target of net zero emissions by 2060. Credit:Sanghee Liu

The EU said it was considering a carbon border tax for high-emissions exports. Australia is expected to reject any attempt to make such a levy part of the free-trade deal. Its negotiators have pushed for climate to be separated from trade outcomes in the deal.

Trade Minister Simon Birmingham said the government's primary focus was on delivering new export opportunities for farmers and businesses.
The Reject Shop has vowed to beat Woolworths, Coles and Aldi on the price of groceries as it ramps up its war on the supermarket giants.

The Australian discount store has started stocking grocery items in a major overhaul of the brand after securing a deal with the UK's largest supermarket, Tesco.

The retailer is rolling out designated grocery aisles, selling Tesco-branded pantry items including tea, biscuits, soup, rice, pasta, baby care and a huge range of other grocery staples.

Andre Reich, CEO The Reject Shop, announced on Thursday the store will beat its competitors' price on identical items in what will be Australia's first ever low-price guarantee on groceries.

The discount store started stocking grocery items after securing a deal with the UK's largest supermarket Tesco - and it means huge savings for shoppers

Customers could soon be seeing cheaper items from big brand names such as Coca-Cola, Colgate, Mars, Morning Fresh, Uncle Toby's, Cadbury and Rexona

'No one wants to be ripped off, especially for the things we must use every day. It's our job to buy bulk and pass the savings we make onto our customers,' Mr Reich told the Herald Sun.

'With this commitment to delivering products at the lowest price, we're proud to offer a 10 per cent discount on an item if by chance they find it at a cheaper price.'

Mr Reich said The Reject Shop will be expanding its products to ensure shoppers have more variety.

'We've reviewed all our product to make sure only the best quality items are available and we've expanded our product offering significantly so Australians can buy high quality essentials for less,' he said.

The Reject Shop CEO Andre Reich, said this exciting expansion of products will see shoppers having more variety

Mr Reich previously told Daily Mail Australia that shoppers are now more than ever seeking cheaper items due to the coronavirus

Mr Reich previously told Daily Mail Australia shoppers are now more than ever seeking cheaper items due to the coronavirus.

'We are very excited to utilise our 354 store buying power to bring quality and innovative Tesco products to Australia, the first of which will hit all stores in early September 2020,' he said.

'We absolutely connect with what Tesco stands for as 'a champion for customers  helping them to enjoy a better quality of life and an easier way of living,' a similar mission to ours in that we are helping Australians save more money every day.

The discount chain, which first launched four decades ago, is eyeing up the likes of Aldi and Kmart and already employs over 5,300 workers across Australia, generating more than $800million in sales each year.

With 300 new grocery products being delivered in bulk, Chief Operations Officer Dani Aquilina says huge savings are here to stay.

The products are currently available at all stores in New South Wales, Canberra and Queensland, meanwhile Victoria will have the range by mid September

Packets of rice cakes will hit the shelves for $2 and Tesco biscuits are on offer and will range from $2 to $2.50

'What we do specifically that's different is we make sure we find the best-selling products, we buy them in big volumes so we can get the best prices and then we pass those savings on to our customers,' Ms Aquilina told A Current Affair.

'It's everything from pantry staples  oil, vinegar, we've got things like rice pouches, snacks and treats - then we've also brought in a great baby range, so everything from formula to baby wipes and nappies.'

Because of Tesco's buying power, The Reject Shop has assured customers it will always be fully stocked with cheap items.

For example, Tesco's Gold Instant Coffee costs just $6 compared to Nescafe at Coles or Woolies for $9.

Australian bargain hunters are flocking to discount chain The Reject Shop as the first Tesco-branded grocery items finally hit the shelves (pictured: Tesco rice)

Tesco's microwave rice is $1.90 compared to $2.50 at Woolworths and an 88-pack of baby wipes is the same at both The Reject Shop and Coles, but the latter gives a smaller packet.

Tick Yes Marketing expert Peter Applebaum said customers should be excited.

'At the moment the Reject Shop in the Australian retail market is like a tinny up against a range of battleships,' Mr Applebaum said.

Mr Applebaum said The Reject Shop's move was 'smart' and that it is being 'nimble' by increasing market share.

'We consumers are aching for people to give us a reason why we should buy from them now,' he said.

'In the absence of that we will go for the cheapest option so if you have great prices I'm probably more likely to shop with you than I am with someone else.'
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-02 05:29:19|Editor: huaxia

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Photo taken in Arlington, Virginia, the United States on Sept. 29, 2020 shows C-SPAN 2 live stream of U.S. President Donald Trump (L) and his Democratic challenger Joe Biden speaking during their first debate in the 2020 presidential race. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

President Donald Trump's remarks came a day after the Commission on Presidential Debates said it's considering changes to the format of the next two debates to "ensure a more orderly discussion of the issues."

WASHINGTON, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump suggested on Thursday that he won't agree to any rule changes at the remaining two debates with 2020 Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden.

"Why would I allow the Debate Commission to change the rules for the second and third Debates when I easily won last time?" Trump tweeted, while several polls showed that most viewers think Biden did better in the first 2020 presidential debate.

The tweet came a day after the Commission on Presidential Debates said it's considering changes to the format of the next two debates to "ensure a more orderly discussion of the issues" amid wide criticism that the first Trump-Biden matchup was messy and unpresidential.

On the stage in Cleveland, Ohio on Tuesday night, Trump interrupted Biden on nearly every topic he was talking about and mocked his intellect and performance in college, while the former U.S. vice president hit back by calling his opponent a "liar" and a "clown" and told him to "shut up."

White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said during a White House press briefing on Thursday that Trump "wants to debate, he plans on being at the debate, but he wants the rules to be fair and wants a fair exchange and doesn't want rules that cover for a certain candidate's inability to perform well."

In a press call later, Trump campaign adviser Jason Miller said Trump will participate in the next two debates against Biden and that "there should not be any changes" to the rules that have been agreed to. Biden's campaign has committed to attending the events.

Biden on Wednesday criticized Trump's behavior during the debate, saying that changes are needed.

Photo taken in Arlington, Virginia, the United States on Sept. 29, 2020 shows C-SPAN 2 live stream of U.S. President Donald Trump (L) and his Democratic challenger Joe Biden (R) attending their first debate in the 2020 presidential race. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

"I just hope there's a way in which the debate commission can control the ability of us to answer the question without interruption," Biden told reporters.

U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said on Thursday that she doesn't think Biden should debate Trump again.

"I myself did not think that Joe Biden should dignify debate with the president who has no commitment to fact, evidence, data, demeans the office he holds," the California Democrat said during an interview with Bloomberg TV. "I never thought he shouldn't do it because I didn't think he would do well. I thought he shouldn't do it because I thought something like this could happen."

The second 2020 presidential debate will be held on Oct. 15 at Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts in Miami, Florida, Trump's home state and a battleground for this year's presidential election.

That debate will take the form of a town meeting, in which questions will be posed by citizens from the South Florida area. The candidates will have two minutes to respond to each question and there will be an additional minute for the moderator to facilitate further discussion.

Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee, will host the third Trump-Biden debate on Oct. 22, whose format is said to be identical to the first encounter.

There will also be a vice presidential debate between Vice President Mike Pence and Biden's running mate, U.S. Senator from California Kamala Harris, at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, Utah on Oct. 7.

Election Day falls on Nov. 3 this year, while early voting, either in-person or by mail, has started in some states. According to the RealClearPolitics polling average, Biden leads Trump by 7.2 percentage points nationally and 3.5 points in top battleground states, as of Thursday. 
The Foreign Office Consultations between India and Myanmar was held virtually on October 1, during which Myanmar was assured that it is an integral element of India's Neighbourhood First and Act East policies. While the Indian delegation was led by Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla, the Myanmar delegation was led by Permanent Secretary U Soe Han. Thursdays meeting, which marked the 19th round, saw a useful exchange on various issues, such as border cooperation, coronavirus pandemic and trade and investment ties.

FS @harshvshringla and Myanmar Permanent Secretary U Soe Han @SoeHan11 had a useful exchange on a range of issues at the India-Myanmar Foreign Office Consultations today.



Myanmar is an integral element of Indias Neighbourhood First and Act East policies. pic.twitter.com/HcUTV2cMFp  Anurag Srivastava (@MEAIndia) October 1, 2020

According to the official press note released by the Ministry of External Affairs, both sides review the entire gamut of relations, including up-gradation of border infrastructure, the status of Indias ongoing development projects in Myanmar, trade and investment ties, power and energy cooperation, consular matters and cultural cooperation, including the ongoing restoration work on earthquake-damaged pagodas in Bagan. Further, cooperation in regional and multilateral fora was also discussed.

READ: Myanmar Registers Spike In Coronavirus Cases

The two sides expressed satisfaction that despite the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, meeting in several areas, such as power, energy and etc., have been held virtually, reflecting the depth of the bilateral engagement. The two sides also held extensive discussions on the challenges posed by COVID-19 and ways to mitigate its impact, including through vaccine development, the supply of medicines, equipment and technology and capacity building.

The press release read, Foreign Secretary reiterated the priority India attaches to its partnership with Myanmar in accordance with Indias Neighborhood First and Act East policies. He stated that India remained committed to enhancing its multifaceted cooperation with Myanmar and also to explore new avenues of cooperation.

READ: Rohingya Crisis Created By Myanmar; Must Be Solved By Them: Bangladesh PM Seeks UN Focus

Next meet to held on October 20

Myanmars official reaffirmed its countrys commitment to further strengthen its time tested partnership with India for the mutual benefit of the two countries. Soe Han also expressed appreciation for the COVID related and development assistance extended by India to Myanmar and further thanked the nation for providing debt service relief under the G-20 Debt Service Suspension Initiative. It was noted that the next Joint Trade Committee Ministerial Meeting to be held on October 20, which will be useful in further strengthening bilateral trade and investment relations.

(Image: @MEAIndia/Twitter)

READ: US Lawmakers Seek Transparent, Fair Election In Myanmar: Introduce Resolution

READ: Myanmar Imposes Tighter Virus Restrictions In Main City
Actor and filmmaker Farhan Akhtar has dismissed recent reports that he has employed Sushant Singh Rajputs former cook, Keshav. It was recently reported by a news channel that Keshav has been working for Farhan and Sara Ali Khan.

Farhan took to Twitter to dismiss the claims. He wrote, sharing a screengrab of a TV news debate, For the record: I have no person named Keshav working at mine. Unsurprisingly, another lie by a fake news channel famous for peddling lies. Please stop being so gullible. Just because a guy screams it out on TV doesnt make it true.

For the record: I have no person named Keshav working at mine. Unsurprisingly, another lie by a fake news channel famous for peddling lies.

Please stop being so gullible. Just because a guy screams it out on TV doesnt make it true. https://t.co/Fkex3iUHug  Farhan Akhtar (@FarOutAkhtar) October 1, 2020

Farhan paid tribute to Sushant on June 16, two days after his death, with a poem. He had written, Sleep my brother Sleep. Let the vultures gather and the crocodiles weep, let the circus performers juggle, contort, bow and leap. Let the shrill get higher let the darkness in the hearts of men get deep. Sleep my brother sleep. RIP Sushant.

In the aftermath of Sushants death, Farhan has commented on the insider-outsider debate, the media trial of Sushants girlfriend Rhea Chakraborty, and other matters related to the tragic event. In an interview to India Today, Farhan said, It is one of the greatest tragedies that I can think of in recent times. It is a tremendous loss to the fraternity. It enrages you when you see that his family is not given the opportunity to breathe. Theories are being spun about why he did it. This is not the time for that. Let some time pass. Right now its speculation from abetment to murder to every crazy thing. Everyone suddenly knew what he thought, his journey and everything about him. What followed is a circus. Be kind, be more inclusive, be aware, reach out, but right now everyone is either got a sword out or holding a shield. Its ugly. We should remember him for his great work and talent, mourn the fact that we lost somebody who had great potential.

Also read: Farhan Akhtar shares tweet against Rhea Chakrabortys media trial, tackles hate: You deserve a PHD in whataboutery

Sharing a tweet about the right to a fair an impartial trial by Amnesty India, Farhan had written, Media coverage that surmise and denigrate her character and behaviour, serve no purpose. Condoning these practices distances the victims from justice and the accused from a fair trial and hampers our progress towards gender equality.

Sushants death is being investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation, after the Mumbai Police concluded in its original probe that the actor had died by suicide. Sushants family has accused Rhea of abetment to suicide and misappropriation of funds.

Follow @htshowbiz for more

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Up to 2022, BNB will supply NAS batteries to G-Philos for P2G projects

Yongin, South Korea, and Ludwigshafen, Germany, September 10, 2020  BASF New Business GmbH (BNB), a wholly owned subsidiary of the German chemical company BASF SE, and the leading Korean P2G system company G-Philos have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to cooperate in P2G projects globally. Up to 2022, BNB will supply NAS batteries that can provide a total of 19.2 MWh of energy to G-Philos for P2G projects. BNB will support G-Philos in further P2G projects and in the development of business with Power Conversion Systems (PCS) for NAS batteries in South Korea as well as in the global market. Through the collaboration, the two companies expect synergy effects in the field of P2G systems for green hydrogen production.

Green hydrogen production from renewable energies, such as solar, wind and hydro, without CO 2 emissions has been drawing ever-more global attention in recent years. In South Korea, the Green New Deal comprises plans to invest KRW 73.4 trillion ($61 billion) in projects, including renewable energy and hydrogen, as a part of South Koreas policy to transform into a low-carbon society. P2G technologies will be one of the key elements of this plan. South Korea is expanding its renewable energy supply and clean hydrogen production in a similar manner to the E.U., which recently announced its own Hydrogen Strategy. With the recently signed MoU, BNB and G-Philos are now joining forces to support the expansion of green hydrogen production from renewable energy.

BNB distributes NAS batteries produced by NGK Insulators Ltd. NAS batteries are high-energy, long-duration sodium-sulfur batteries designed for stationary energy storage. With their capability to discharge for 48 hours, NAS batteries are ideally suited for applications such as renewable power stabilization and integration into the grid. In order to use the electrical energy stored in the battery, a power conversion system (PCS) is needed.

G-Philos has developed a suitable PCS for a 200 kW NAS battery system. The battery and the PCS have already been commissioned in a P2G project implemented by G-Philos in collaboration with Korea Midland Power (KOMIPO) at Sangmyung Wind Farm (21 MW), Jeju Island, South Korea. In this case, the NAS battery serves as an energy buffer between wind turbines and electrolyzers to ensure stable hydrogen production from surplus wind power despite the fluctuating nature of wind. G-Philos can now supply PCS products for the NAS battery systems ranging from 200 kW up to 800 kW.

Gawoo Park, CEO of G-Philos, said: In order to stably produce green hydrogen while accommodating the variability of renewable energy, the NAS battery is expected to play an important role in securing system operation safety and reliable long-term operation as an energy buffer. G-Philos will keep focusing on commercializing green hydrogen production through various P2G projects.

BNBs Director of E-Power Management, Frank Prechtl, said: Green hydrogen production is an upcoming market and a promising application for NAS batteries. With G-Philos, we now have a strong and competent partner to develop this opportunity into a sizeable business.

Media contacts:

BASF G-Philos



Christian Muller Kyumoon Um ()

Communications and Marketing Director ()

Phone: +49 621 60-43340 Phone: +82-31-548-2050

christian.d.mueller@basf.com km65um@g-philos.co.kr
AVENTURA, Fla., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Benihana, Samurai, RA Sushi and Haru Sushi are proud to support National Breast Cancer Awareness Month with an annual national promotion to benefit The American Cancer Society, an organization with a mission dedicated to Save Lives, Celebrate Lives and Lead the Fight for a World Without Cancer.

From October 1 through October 31, our four brands will partner with The American Cancer Society by offering a special, limited-time menu and a portion of sales from each item will be donated to the organization:

Pink Kimono Lemonade - $2 donated

donated Spiked Pink Kimono Lemonade - $2 donated

donated Ros e Wine - $2 donated per glass; $4 donated per bottle

- donated per glass; donated per bottle Pink Hope Sushi Roll - $2 donated



Over the past 100 years, The American Cancer Society has been working relentlessly to end cancer and has empowered volunteers to do just that -- influence change and impact the future of cancer. From funding critical research to helping ensure all Americans have access to cancer care, their work is saving lives and leading to new innovative breakthroughs in how to fight this disease.

"Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an important time for our employees and our guests. We are committed to joining the fight to raise awareness and donate funds to The American Cancer Society so that they can continue their mission," said Benihana Chief Executive Officer and President, Tom Baldwin. "As a company that celebrates families, this partnership is a natural fit as this disease affects the entire family."

"We are thrilled to partner this year with select Benihana, Samurai, RA Sushi and Haru Sushi restaurants nationwide to raise awareness about the importance of breast cancer screening and prevention," said The American Cancer Society Chief Executive Officer Gary Reedy. "One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime and the donations made through this partnership will help our organization continue to fund the research and patient services that are vital to our mission."

About Benihana Inc.

Benihana Inc., through its subsidiaries, including Benihana National Corp., is the nation's leading operator of Japanese teppanyaki and sushi restaurants with 100 restaurants operating under the brands BENIHANA, HARU SUSHI, RA SUSHI, and SAMURAI, including ten franchised BENIHANA restaurants in the United States, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. To learn more about Benihana Inc. and its four brands, https://www.benihana.com/about/company-video/

About The American Cancer Society

The American Cancer Society is a global grassroots force of 1.5 million volunteers dedicated to saving lives, celebrating lives, and leading the fight for a world without cancer. From breakthrough research, to free lodging near treatment, a 24/7/365 live helpline, free rides to treatment, and convening powerful activists to create awareness and impact, the Society is the only organization attacking cancer from every angle. For more information go to www.cancer.org.

Contact:

Jeannie Means

305-702-2880

[email protected]



SOURCE Benihana Inc.
Outlook and Office 365 services are down for many users around the world. Microsoft is working to resolve the problems.

Microsofts Outlook service is facing a global outage. Users are unable to use services such as Outlook on the web, Outlook.com, and Outlook. The service interruption appears to have affected both desktop and mobile users.

Microsoft has acknowledged issues with Outlook services.

We've received reports of users experiencing issues accessing their Exchange Online accounts via Outlook on the Web. Our initial investigation indicates that India-based users are the primarily impacted audience. Further details can be found in your admin center under EX223208, said Microsoft in a tweet.

According to downdetector, the service interruption began at around 10 AM IST this morning. Majority of users on the website reported facing issues with logging in. Some users also faced difficulties with the website and receiving messages. A live outage map reveals users in Europe, India, and the US have been affected.

It appears that the outage has been caused by some of the changes made to its service. Microsoft has cautioned users that they may face problems with various Exchange Online protocols.

Is Microsoft Outlook / Office 365 down for anyone else in india? pic.twitter.com/P8udtibf1t  Prasanth S (@Itsmeprasanths) October 1, 2020

@Outlook

It's not working since 10:00am.

Unable to login / Email.

Is there any problem in Hotmail/Outlook Email? pic.twitter.com/0DoYZXHuvC  roshan jha (@Jha_roshan_kr) October 1, 2020

Oh how tragic, outlook is down and I can't get into any of my emails... pic.twitter.com/UgUqIfy7aO  Catherine Crompton (@cjcrompton) October 1, 2020

Were reviewing recent changes to our service to further determine the cause of impact. Users may experience problems with various Exchange Online protocols including Outlook desktop, mobile devices as well as those dependent on REST functionality, said Microsoft 365 Status in another tweet.

The outage comes 48 hours after Microsoft 365 users faced a similar interruption. According to reports, multiple Microsoft 365 services, including Outlook.com and Microsoft Teams were affected by the global outage. The services were restored hours later.

Developing
Trick-or-treaters should social distance and wear proper face coverings, but haunted houses are out in light of COVID-19, according to Halloween guidelines issued by the Illinois Department of Public Health on Wednesday.

When it comes to Halloween parties, gatherings of more than 50 people or 50 percent or more of a building's maximum occupancy are prohibited, the IDPH reminded.

Hayrides should not exceed 50 persons capacity with persons spaced at least six feet apart.

Carter Brothers Haunted Hayrides, 104 Carter Lane, will open Friday.

According to a Facebook post, hayride patrons are required to wear face coverings and practice social distancing.

City of Springfield communications director Julia Frevert said the city hasn't set trick-or-treating hours yet. Typically, the hours have been from 4:30 to 8 p.m., but Frevert said they could be adjusted with Halloween falling on a Saturday.

Frevert said Mayor Jim Langfelder and Fire Chief Allen Reyne will be meeting and speaking with officials from the Sangamon County Department of Public Health and surrounding communities about coordinating hours.

As an alternative to door-to-door trick-or-treating, the IDPH suggested leaving individually wrapped candy or treats on a table on a front walkway or sidewalk.

Costume masks should not be a replacement for face coverings, according to the guidance.

Trunk or treat events are considered "a higher risk activity" and are discouraged by the IDPH.

Visitors to pumpkin patches and orchards should use hand sanitizer before handling produce. The IDPH discourages people from attending fall festivals outside their community if they live in an area with community spread of COVID-19.

Anyone who has participated in higher-risk activities or may have been exposed during a celebration, should take extra precautions by staying home as much as possible and avoid being around people at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19. The person should also consider getting tested for COVID-19.

"We know what our best tools are: wearing our masks, keeping our distance, limiting event sizes, washing your hands and looking out for public health and each other," said IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike.

For more information, go to https://www.dph.illinois.gov/.

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Five months after Kerala earned praise from the international community for flattening the COVID-19 curve successfully, the state finds itself among those with the maximum coronavirus case load now.

Kerala, on October 1, reported 8,135 fresh COVID-19 cases, 2,828 recoveries, and 29 COVID-19 deaths, taking total number of active cases to 72,339. Keralas total coronavirus tally now stands over 1,96,000, including 742 deaths and more than 1,28,000 recoveries.

In the past few days, Kerala has seen a sudden spike in the number of new COVID-19 infections being reported daily. Even two weeks ago, somewhere around 3,500-4,000 new coronavirus cases were being reported daily.

Unfortunately, Kerala now ranks among the top three worst-hit states vis-a-vis the number of new coronavirus cases being reported per million population per week, coming next only to Delhi and Maharashtra. According to a Times of India report, Kerala is registering 158 coronavirus cases in the week from September 19-26, whereas there were 111 new cases per million population in the week before.

What is especially a cause for concern is that the proportion of active cases in Kerala is nearly 35 percent of the total number of COVID-19 cases recorded thus far, The Indian Express reported. This is far higher than the national active coronavirus case ratio that stands at 15.42 percent.

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

Keralas recovery rate is also far below the national average. Indias COVID-19 recovery rate at the moment is above 83 percent, whereas that of Keralas is 65.39 percent.

In what could offer a little relief to Keralites, the state fares better than most states in the top 10 list with regard to the mortality rate. Kerala has a mortality rate of 0.38 percent, which is among the lowest in India. The national average for the same is 1.57 percent.

Though the Kerala government has admitted that the current COVID-19 situation in the state is extremely critical, it has ruled out imposing a complete coronavirus lockdown again.

Follow our coverage of the coronavirus crisis here
In June, Mubadala invested Rs 9,093 crore in Jio Platforms, the digital services division of Reliance Industries. Several of the overseas investors in Jio have now turned their attention to Reliance Retail

The retail unit of the Reliance Industries (RIL) will receive an investment of Rs 6,247.5 crore from Abu Dhabi state fund Mubadala Investment Company. The Abu Dhabi-based company is seeking to secure 1.4 percent in Reliance Industries.

Mubadala will join the global clamour to own a stake in the Indian company.

This latest investment  with Silver Lake's co-investors and General Atlantic, the fifth in three weeks  values Reliance Retail at a pre-money equity value of Rs 4.285 lakh crore, RIL said in an exchange filing.

On 30 September, RIL said the co-investors of private equity giant Silver Lake will invest an additional Rs 1,875 crore in Ventures (RRVL), taking their combined investment in the company to Rs 9,375 crore in exchange for a 2.13 percent stake.

Investor interest in Reliance Retail, a subsidiary of RRVL, has been amplifying in the past few weeks. Besides the Silver Lake investments, Indias biggest brick-and-mortar retail business has also collected Rs 5,550 crore from US buyout firm KKR & Co and Rs 3,675 crore from private equity firm General Atlantic.

Reliance Retail operates India's largest, fastest growing and most profitable retail business serving close to 640 million footfalls across its nearly 12,000 stores nationwide.

In June, Mubadala invested Rs 9,093 crore in Jio Platforms, the digital services division of RIL. Several of the overseas investors in Jio have now turned their attention to Reliance Retail.

Mubadala is billed as the second-biggest state investor after Abu Dhabi Investment Authority. It has more than 50 businesses and investments in more than 50 countries.

Mubadala typically invests in enterprises that create lasting value and positive economic and social impact in communities at home and overseas, according to its website. Its portfolio companies are spread in sectors such as aerospace, agri business, information and communication technology (ICT), semiconductors, metals and mining, pharmaceutical and medical technology, renewable energy and utilities. It also manages diverse financial holdings.

The transaction is subject to regulatory and other customary approvals.

Disclosure: Reliance Industries Ltd. is the sole beneficiary of Independent Media Trust which controls Network18 Media & Investments Ltd.
COLUMBUS, Ohio  Plans to require Ohio Medicaid recipients to work 20 hours a week have been delayed because of the coronavirus outbreak.

Until the pandemic is ended, we are not allowed to make a change in our program like that, said Maureen Corcoran, director of the Ohio Department of Medicaid. Or to terminate people.
The global social commerce market size is poised to grow by USD 2.05 trillion during 2020-2024, progressing at a CAGR of almost 31% throughout the forecast period, according to the latest report by Technavio. The report offers an up-to-date analysis regarding the current market scenario, latest trends and drivers, and the overall market environment. The report also provides the market impact and new opportunities created due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Download a Free Sample of REPORT with COVID-19 Crisis and Recovery Analysis.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200930005610/en/

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Social Commerce Market 2020-2024 (Graphic: Business Wire).

The rising use of social media advertising is one of the major factors driving the market growth. The e-commerce industry uses social media platforms for advertising and increasing their customer base. With the rising popularity of social media, e-commerce advertisers use banner display ads and sponsored content to attract customers. These platforms help in effectively engaging the target audience. The posts on social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter are increasingly being viewed and shared by users. Circulation of the posted content increases traffic to the company's website and expands the customer base. Such benefits have increased the popularity of social media platforms, in turn, propelling the growth of the social commerce market.

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Report Highlights:

The major social commerce market growth comes from laptops and PCs segment. Laptops are widely used for gathering information such as customer reviews, product information, and product ratings. The widescreen of the laptops and PCs provides easy access to product information. These devices are also used for the promotion of content through advertising. These devices help the users to view multiple screens at once and compare the prices offered by competing social commerce websites.

APAC was the largest social commerce market in 2019, and the region will offer several growth opportunities to market vendors during the forecast period. The rising demand for smartphones, growing investment in the telecommunication infrastructure, and widespread reach of Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram will significantly drive social commerce market growth in this region over the forecast period. Market growth in this region will be faster than the growth of the market in other regions.

The global social commerce market is fragmented. Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., Etsy Inc., Facebook Inc., LinkedIn Corp., PayPal Holdings Inc., Pinterest Inc., SINA Corp., Tencent Holdings Ltd., Twitter Inc., and Verizon Communications Inc. are some of the major market participants. To help clients improve their market position, this social commerce market forecast report provides a detailed analysis of the market leaders.

As the business impact of COVID-19 spreads, the Global social commerce market 2020-2024 is expected to have Negative and Inferior growth. As the pandemic spreads in some regions and plateaus in other regions, we revaluate the impact on businesses and update our report forecasts.

Read the full report here: https://www.technavio.com/report/report/social-commerce-market-industry-analysis

Technological Advancements in Social Media will be a Key Market Trend

Technological innovations have revolutionized social media platforms. Presently, social media platforms are not just limited to interaction among people but are also used for shopping and information exchange. User-friendly social interaction platforms such as Snapchat are increasingly used for marketing products. The usage of chatbots with artificial intelligence (AI) to mimic conversations engages the audience without human intervention. It involves users in self-initiated tasks and quasi-conversations. Such technological advancements in social media will be one of the latest trends that will contribute to the growth of the social commerce market.

Technavio's sample reports are free of charge and contain multiple sections of the report, such as the market size and forecast, drivers, challenges, trends, and more. Request a free sample report

Social Commerce Market 2020-2024: Key Highlights

CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2020-2024

Detailed information on factors that will assist social commerce market growth during the next five years

Estimation of the social commerce market size and its contribution to the parent market

Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior

The growth of the social commerce market

Analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors

Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of social commerce market vendors

Buy 1 Technavio report and get the second for 50% off. Buy 2 Technavio reports and get the third for free.

View market snapshot before purchasing

Executive Summary

Market Landscape

Market ecosystem

Market characteristics

Value chain analysis

Market Sizing

Market definition

Market segment analysis

Market size 2019

Market outlook: Forecast for 2019 2024

Five Forces Analysis

Five forces summary

Bargaining power of buyers

Bargaining power of suppliers

Threat of new entrants

Threat of substitutes

Threat of rivalry

Market condition

Market Segmentation by Device

Market segments

Comparison by Device

Laptops and PCs Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Mobiles Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Tablets Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Others Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Market opportunity by Device

Customer landscape

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

South America Market size and forecast 2019-2024

MEA Market size and forecast 2019-2024

Key leading countries

Market opportunity by geography

Market drivers

Market challenges

Market trends

Vendor Landscape

Overview

Vendor landscape

Landscape disruption

Vendor Analysis

Vendors covered

Market positioning of vendors

Alibaba Group Holding Ltd.

Etsy Inc.

Facebook Inc.

LinkedIn Corp.

PayPal Holdings Inc.

Pinterest Inc.

SINA Corp.

Tencent Holdings Ltd.

Twitter Inc.

Verizon Communications Inc.

Appendix

Scope of the report

Currency conversion rates for US$

Research methodology

List of abbreviations

About Us

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses 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/20200930005610/en/

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Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

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Email: media@technavio.com

Website: www.technavio.com/
Constellation Brands has received considerable interest from Black-owned start-ups getting a foothold in the alcohol industry after the company announced its racial equity efforts this summer, CEO Bill Newlands told CNBC's Jim Cramer on Thursday.

Constellation Brands, whose portfolio of beer and booze includes Corona, Modelo and Svedka, in late June pledged to invest $100 million this decade in Black- and other minority-owned businesses dealing in alcoholic beverages.

"It's a sector that has not gotten the right amount of capital over time," Newlands said in a "Mad Money" interview. "We think we can help change that."

As part of the Focus on Minority Founders program, which will be carried out through 2030, Constellation said it will offer sales, marketing, operations and finance expertise to entrepreneurs.

Constellation Brands is one in an ongoing list of corporations that jumped into action committing billions of dollars toward social justice issues that have been highlighted in a summer of racial reckoning. Netflix, Apple, Google-owned YouTube and SoftBank are just a handful of the companies that committed $100 million each toward Black businesses and causes.

Access to capital is one of the top reasons Black entrepreneurs struggle to get their businesses going, and impact investing offers a way to address the issue. It's highly underutilized for entrepreneurs of color, however, according to William Towns, an adjunct lecturer of social impact at Northwestern University.

"How much is going to entrepreneurs of color from an impact-investing standpoint? It's relatively small," Towns said in a study.

According to Rate My Investor, just 1% of venture capital-backed entrepreneurs between 2013 and 2017 were Black.

Black communities historically were denied access to government and financial resources, and the effects continue to show up today in disparities in housing, education and pay, among a long list of other issues. Not only have Black Americans contracted the coronavirus and died of Covid-19 at disproportionate rates to White Americans, Black- and other minority-owned businesses have also been upended by the economic crisis that came with the pandemic.

The number of Black and Brown-owned businesses dropped by 41% and 32%, respectively, between February and April. In comparison, White-owned businesses declined by 17%.

Disparities also showed up in the distribution of business rescue loans.

"We have to reflect the communities we serve," Newlands said.

Newlands likened Constellation's $100 million plan to invest in Black businesses to its $100 million commitment to women-owned businesses in late 2018. More than half of the firms in Constellation's venture portfolio is now made up of women-owned or women-led businesses.

While he did not give any details of any prospective companies, Newlands said Constellation, based in Victor, New York, is evaluating a number of investment opportunities.

"We think we can do the same thing for the African-American and minority-owned businesses going forward," he said. "We're very excited about the opportunity."
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has called for the adoption of the University Transparency and Accountability Solution (UTAS) in the country.

The Kano Zonal Coordinator of the association, Mahmud Lawan, made the call in a statement issued in Kano on Thursday at the end of its meeting held at the Federal University, Dutse.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the federal government had directed university lecturers to enroll on the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS).

The union, however, rejected IPPIS insisting that it violated the university autonomy, and proposed UTAS as alternative to the IPPIS.

Mr Lawan said that the union expressed dismay over non payment of salaries to its members by the government.

We urge the federal government to immediately release the salaries of our members and stop playing politics with the ongoing six month old industrial action.

The misinformation regarding payment of salaries by government officials is disheartening and laden with mischief to discredit the noble course of ASUU and its members, Lawan said in the statement.

The statement urged the federal government to investigate the matter, noting that payment of salaries to its members were suspended in the past three months.

It also called for the provision of revitalisation fund, completion of renegotiation exercise and adoption of UTAS, to end the strike. (NAN)
Conakry, Guinea (PANA) - A high-level delegation of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the African Union (AU) and the United Nations (UN) will on Thursday begin a 48-hour visit to Guinea, less than three weeks before the crucial 18 October presidential election
Critics like to pigeonhole movies using familiar categories  fiction, nonfiction, happy, sad  but one of the charms of Dick Johnson Is Dead is how slippery it is. Pitched artfully between the celebratory and the elegiac, it is an inarguably serious documentary with light, surrealistic flourishes that, at times, veer into exuberant goofiness. Even at its silliest, the movie retains an undertow of melancholia because (as the title announces) its a death notice. It is also a love letter from a daughter to a father who, for the viewer, becomes fully human even as he fades away.

The trouble started, the director Kirsten Johnson explains, with missed appointments and mistakes. Her father, Dick, a psychiatrist and widower who lived alone in Washington, started to slip up. And then he drove through a construction site and kept on going, making it home on four flat tires. His worried friends and colleagues alerted Johnson and her brother. Every call, she says in voice-over, felt like an alarm bell.

When the documentary opens, father and daughter have already come to an understanding. He will move into her New York apartment, and the two of them, rather more unusually, will make a movie about his dying, partly by enacting it. What made Dick sign on? He seems like a supremely loving, indulgent father, but when he agreed to make this movie did he fully grasp the situation? The possibility that he didnt is both painful and ethically murky, which strengthens the movies complexity.

Kirsten doesnt offer much of an answer other than he said yes, though the movies very existence, you come to understand, explains plenty. Not long after, an air-conditioner is falling out of a high window and landing on Dick, splat. Like the serially unlucky Wile E. Coyote, though, he is soon back on his feet and smiling into the next scene, the next fantasy. The Oedipal overtones are strong (and Dad is a shrink), but Johnson doesnt put either of them on the couch (maybe because Dad is a shrink).
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. The Ministry of Healthcare of Armenia has called on citizens to adhere to the coronavirus guidelines during these days of tensions. It said that new COVID-19 cases are growing.

During these days all of us are focused on Artsakh, it said, referring to the massive Turkish-backed Azeri military attack on Artsakh.

However, the global COVID-19 epidemiological situation, including in Armenia, should not be subjected to indifference.

The pandemic hasnt retreated, moreover a noticeable growth of COVID-19 cases is observed all across Armenia in recent days. Even in these tensions it is necessary to strictly adhere to the epidemiological rules. Dear people, do not let your guard down, continue wearing masks, practice social distancing and disinfection of hands, the ministry said.

Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan
Yuri Orlov, a Soviet physicist and disillusioned former Communist who publicly held Moscow accountable for failing to protect the rights of dissidents and was imprisoned and exiled for his own apostasy, died on Sunday at his home in Ithaca, N.Y. He was 96.

His death was confirmed by his wife, Sidney Orlov.

Professor Orlov was released from Siberia in 1986 in a prisoner exchange before his 12-year term in a labor camp and exile expired. He was banished from the Soviet Union and went to the United States, where he pursued his scientific research and human rights advocacy and, beginning in 1987, taught physics and government at Cornell University in Ithaca. He became a citizen in 1993.

A credulous Communist Party member since college, Professor Orlov began having doubts about the party based on a growing foreboding under Stalin over what he later described as slavery without private property. He was further alienated by the subsequent Soviet repression of civil liberties movements in Hungary and what he called the savage suppressions of workers unrest in Czechoslovakia.

He helped organize the Soviet branch of Amnesty International in 1973. In 1976, he founded, with Lyudmila Alexeyeva, what was considered his most enduring legacy: the Moscow Helsinki Group, which monitored Soviet compliance with the human rights commitments that had been outlined in the 1975 Helsinki Accords, signed by some 35 nations.
Following its discovery in 1999, the Nebra Sky Disc spent three years on the black market until authorities seized the relic in a 2002 sting operation.

Shortly thereafter, in 2005, Regensburg University archaeologist Peter Schauer claimed the disc was a modern forgery. His arguments have been dismissed; the corrosion and other lines of evidence are a testimony to this object's advanced age.

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Still, the nature of its recovery raises questions. The two men who found the sky disc claimed they unearthed it at a site near Nebra, Germany  about 111 miles (180 kilometers) southwest of Berlin. Since the disc was considered property of the state, they had no legal right to dig it up or attempt to sell it. But these guys did both. And in 2005, they were found guilty of illegal excavation.

" " A pair of Bronze Age swords, among other artifacts, was allegedly found near the site of the Nebra Sky Disc discovery in 1999. Schellhorn/ullstein bild/Getty Images

Before the sting, the looters tried to sell the disc as part of a collection that also included two axes, two swords and other artifacts allegedly taken from the same location.

Is It Bronze Age or Iron Age?

Right now, the disc is on display at the State Museum of Prehistory in Halle, Germany. According to the locally based State Office for the Preservation of Monuments and Archaeology's official website, it "cannot be directly dated" using radiometric dating techniques.

Yet all is not lost. Radiocarbon dating shows that the bark on one of those associated sword hilts is about 3,600 years old. If the sky disc was made at the same time (more or less), then it's definitely a Bronze Age treasure.

However, a controversial paper, released in September 2020, proposes that the disc's place of origin may not have been reported accurately. The authors also suspect it could be 1,000 years younger than previously thought, making it an Iron Age relic.

Harald Meller, director of the Halle State Museum, isn't sold. Neither is Deputy State Archaeologist Alfred Reichenberger, who wrote a press release questioning the 2020 paper. "The colleagues not only ignore the abundance of published research results in recent years, their various arguments are also easily refuted," declared Reichenberger's statement. According to this January, 2021 story in The New York Times, the controversy concerning the age of the disc continues to rage unabated.

Looters, a court case and rejected fakery charges. After everything it's been through  just in the past 21 years or so  one wonders what the future has in store for the mysterious Nebra Sky Disc.

Now That's Interesting Capitalizing on his artistic background, the great astronomer Galileo Galilei published detailed sketches of sunspots and the moon's pockmarked face.

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Originally Published: Oct 1, 2020
Since the implementation of Simcoe Countys LINX Transit system that runs through AllistonBeetonBradford in early August, members of New Tecumseth Council have noted that Tottenham has been left out.

In an effort to include Tottenham, Ward 6 Councillor Stephanie MacLellan put forward a motion requesting that staff apply for funding to purchase two new buses through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.

Other items mentioned in the motion included funding for the Towns current Administration Centre (10 Wellington Street East) and Joint Operations Centre (6558 8th Line), but it was defeated due to concerns around complicating the application.

Regardless of the outcome of this motion Ill be brining the extension of the bus [to Tottenham] into our budget deliberations coming up, noted Ward 8 Councillor Alan Lacey.

MacLellan said creating an inter-town transit system by connecting Alliston, Tottenham and Beeton is on the top of everyones mind and something the Town should get started on.

Ward 5 Councillor Donna Jebb said she fully supports linking in Tottenham to the LINX route but shed like Council to also consider Treetops, Green Briar and Briar Hill as stops.

I dont think we should just narrow it down to the Tottenham area, it should be a bus that runs up and down the 10th Sideroad and into Beeton, down to Tottenham and joining the others, she noted.

Ward 4 Councillor Fran Sainsbury said the motion seems a bit premature because the LINX transit route is a pilot project and theres currently only three people in Beeton riding the bus to Bradford.

I dont think they [County of Simcoe] are going to continue it because the subsidization of it would be terribly expensive to the taxpayers and we pay 11.3 per cent, she explained.

I think that were getting ahead of ourselves because we have a very small tax base, plus we only have 38,000 people and most of these buses are usually not very successful in the first instance because theres just not enough users to pay.

MacLellan noted that if funding was secured to purchase buses for Tottenham, they would be operated by the Town instead of the County of Simcoe.

We had a full day working session on transit and an inter-town transit system last year, so it sort of boggles my mind that we dont take this [opportunity], she said.

I think this is absolutely the time to try to start our fleet for transit which is going to be small and simple. We want Tottenham to get to Beeton so they can either go to the Go [Station] in Bradford or they can go to Alliston.

MacLellan said youth take these buses to and from Alliston, especially with Banting Memorial High Schools new schedule, which allows some students to leave at 12:30 p.m. but theyre stuck there until 2:00 p.m. if they dont have transportation.

I understand with transit its usually a slow start, but you have to start somewhere, at some point, she remarked.

I think this is the opportunity to try to jump start and connect all of our towns.

Planning for the 2021 budget is expected to begin later this fall and at that time further discussions regarding a Tottenham bus route, funded by the Town, will be discussed.
Like many in his community, Alex Dedam will never forget the lobster wars.

It was 21 years ago that a small fleet of Esgenoopetitj fishing boats took to the waters off eastern New Brunswick, where the Miramichi River meets the ocean.

They had been fishing for lobster in the weeks before as part of their ceremonial fishery, harvesting enough for a feast that would take place at the end of their annual powwow.

But on Sept. 17, 1999, the Supreme Court of Canada had released a ruling on Donald Marshalls case. The Mikmaq man had been arrested in Cape Breton, N.S., in 1993 for catching and selling eels out of season. His case went all the way to the Supreme Court, which formally acknowledged the right of Indigenous people to fish year-round for a moderate livelihood.

Newly sanctioned by the highest court in the land, the Indigenous fishermen from Burnt Church, N.B., at once set out to lay their traps again.

That act would trigger three years of conflict with the federal government and non-Indigenous fishermen.

In the weeks that followed, lines were cut and thousands of Indigenous lobster traps were destroyed. On Oct. 3, an armada of more than 100 non-Indigenous fishing boats gathered in Miramichi Bay in an attempt to stop Indigenous fishing boats.

Tempers flared. Arrests were made.

Standoffs with non-Indigenous fishermen escalated in 2000 to standoffs with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and the RCMP. During a raid, a DFO boat was filmed ramming an Esgenoopetitj fishing boat. Two other small boats were swamped and sunk after being charged by DFO boats  their occupants forced to leap overboard.

Our elders suffered a great deal, says Dedam, who was then a spokesperson for the Esgenoopetitj and is now the bands financial controller. (They had) boats in the water, there were helicopters flying around; there was a police presence that was very noticeable. People, when they left the community, some of them were searched and harassed and that type of thing. And that certainly has affected a lot of our people.

To this day, my mother is 95, and she just does not trust the police. And this was 21 years ago, so she was in her 70s already. She was one of the elders in our community.

In the minds of some, it all seemed to be playing out again, albeit in somewhat less drastic fashion, a few weeks ago, when the Sipeknekatik First Nation opened its moderate livelihood fishery in Nova Scotia by issuing seven licences for a total of 350 lobster traps to their members. Like the Esgenoopetitj, their fishery drew the ire of non-Indigenous commercial fishers and the attention of the DFO.

The stakes are high when it comes to lobster on the East Coast.

The federal governments preliminary figures for the 2016-17 lobster season placed the value of the Maritimes inshore lobster fishery at $833.3 million. Lobster Fishing Area (LFA) 34  which covers the southwestern tip of Nova Scotia, where the Sipeknekatik launched their fishery  is by far the most lucrative of those designated areas, with a landed value more than $350 million for the same season.

But some things have changed between this moment and the Burnt Church crisis more than two decades ago.

Between 2000 and 2007, the federal government put $354 million into commercial fishing licences, fishing vessels, gear and training for First Nations. It estimates that, between 2007 and 2015, the value of First Nations commercial fishing increased 120 per cent, to $145 million.

This particular federal government has consistently emphasized its commitment to reconciliation with the Canadas First Nations, and it has stated that Mikmaw have a constitutionally protected treaty right to fish in pursuit of a moderate livelihood.

Yet negotiations on what that moderate-livelihood fishery should look like have so far failed to bear fruit.

More than two decades on from the Supreme Courts ruling, First Nations have grown tired of waiting and, like the Sipeknekatik, some are taking it upon themselves to create, license, monitor and regulate their own fisheries.

The lobster wars, as they came to be known, in New Brunswick saw an expanding conflict as the Esgenoopetitj continued to fish despite a DFO intent on stopping them.

In the end, in 2002, the Esgenoopetitj came to an agreement with DFO, under which they would fish under federal government licence during federally mandated fishing seasons.

But the crisis left scars that persist in the community even now. The two halves of the town of Burnt Church  Indigenous and non-Indigenous  had, in the past, mostly kept to themselves. The crisis further deepened that split. And the Esgenoopetitjs view of law enforcement was shaken.

I think that the relations with the police really deteriorated here, said Dedam. (We) didnt trust them anymore because they really didnt protect us.

In Saulnierville, N.S., as the Sipeknekatik launched their own fishery this year in St. Marys Bay on Sept. 17, more than 50 non-Indigenous fishing boats waited for the five Indigenous fishing boats to leave the wharf. In the hours and days following, Sipeknekatik fishers reported lines being cut as soon as traps were laid and their lobster traps being hauled out of the water.

Colin Sproul of the Fundy Inshore Fishermens Association said about 100 boats were removing Sipeknekatik traps from the water with the intention of taking them to a nearby wharf, even as federal Fisheries Minister Bernadette Jordan met Sipeknekatik band Chief Michael Sack to discuss a path to accommodating the fishery and de-escalating the conflict.

On Thursday, the Potlotek First Nation in southeastern Cape Breton, following the path of the Sipeknekatik, launched its own moderate-livelihood fishery, with its own licences for six or seven fishermen.

In this case, however, the Potlotek have been talking with the Richmond County Inshore Fishermens Association, which represents commercial fishermen in the area. The two parties have agreed to avoid the kind of conflict that has marred the Sipeknekatik fishery.

In Quebec, across the border from Campbellton, N.B., the Listuguj First Nation, also impatient with the pace of negotiations between DFO and the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mikmaw Chiefs, began its lobster fishery Sept. 20.

Its the same ceremonial fishery theyve had for the past 20 years, said Listuguj Chief Darcy Gray  five fishermen and a community-owned boat, for a total of 235 traps, which go out fishing for two weeks. Its a ceremonial fishery that has been approved by the DFO, and is within the federal departments conservation limits.

But the past two years, the Listuguj have attempted to sell a portion of that catch, and that has created problems with DFO.

It is still primarily a food ceremonial and social fishery, said Gray. It is about feeding our community. Its also a small commercial aspect to cover the cost of managing the fishery. So we at least want to cover our costs.

Although the amount of lobster taken was the same as the DFO-approved harvest for the past two decades, last year DFO notified prospective buyers of their lobster that buying that lobster would be illegal, Gray said.

Forced to find an alternative, the band entered into a trade agreement with another First Nations community for its lobster.

Last year, there was an explicit message sent out that this is illegal lobster, said Gray. This year, with the events going on (during the Sipeknekatik fishery), Im not sure what message may have been sent, because you see different messaging thats evolving coming out of DFO. And maybe theres a little bit of hope there.

Grays hope is that his band can exercise its treaty rights and add a commercial moderate- livelihood component to its existing ceremonial fishery. But as elsewhere, hes faced with claims that the Indigenous fishers are jeopardizing conservation efforts and damaging the commercial fisheries.

Weve heard a lot of those kind of points raised in ignorance, not understanding how were going about our fishery, and, and maybe banking on the perpetuation of ignorance and hoping that that would discourage the way we went forward, said Gray.

I think back to  even though it was a milder reaction last year with regards to our fishery  I pointed out to DFO at that time, that they have a responsibility to inform, educate and build the awareness and knowledge around the expression of our rights, the exercise of those rights, and how that differs from the usual allocation of commercial permits.

While many of the concerns about Mikmaq fisheries centre on the conservation of the lobster stock, Megan Bailey, who studies fisheries management, argues otherwise.

Bailey, an associate professor in the marine affairs program at Dalhousie University in Halifax, points to the scale of the Sipeknekatik moderate-livelihood fishery.

In the commercial fishery, she says, there are nearly 1,000 licensed lobster fishermen in the fishing area that covers the southwestern tip of Nova Scotia  at about 375 traps per boat.

By contrast, the Sipeknekatik issued seven fishing licences at 50 traps per licence, for a total of 350 traps.

Thats the equivalent of one commercial vessel operating per day, when normally in the commercial season, there are 1,000  so its one one-thousandth of the effort that we see in the commercial season, she said.

Added to that, the last stock assessment, undertaken by DFO in 2015, concluded that that the lobster stock in that area was thriving.

Landings in LFA 34 began a long-term increase in the 1980s and recent landings are at record highs, said a DFO statement in 2017.

Commercial fishers argue that fishing by Indigenous communities when the commercial season is closed has the potential to harm the stock, but Bailey says thats not quite the case.

Part of the reason for having lobster seasons in Atlantic Canada is to create a uniform supply of hard shell lobster, said Bailey. So when the fishery in southern Nova Scotia closes in May, the fishery further north up in Cape Breton opens. That staggering of seasons allows for hard shell lobster  which is a more lucrative catch than the softer shelled, post-moult version  to be sold over longer periods of time.

For its part, DFO acknowledges that the new Indigenous fisheries  contrary to the claims of non-Indigenous commercial fishers  do not present a conservation issue.

I think that the issue is because this is contentious, because its political, (because) it has economic ramifications, every administration just kicks the can down the road, said Bailey.

I really think its an avoidance tactic, where there was this hope that the Mikmaq would never organize themselves in a way to be able to really exercise this right. And I think thats coming back to bite DFO in the butt.

But also in the commercial fishing industry. Theyve known this was coming. Where have they been in the lead-up to this to try to create a collaborative coexistence situation where what we see happening at the wharf doesnt happen?

On both sides of the issue, fishermen are frustrated with DFOs failure thus far to provide clarity on the moderate-livelihood fisheries.

For its part, the federal government is walking a tightrope between the two sides, and choosing its words very carefully.

But the biggest difference between 1999 and now is a government that has committed  publicly at least  to implementing the Marshall decision.

First Nations have a treaty right to fish, and we want to work with them to implement it, said DFO spokesperson Jane Deeks. Thats the conversation thats happening right now.

Between that commitment, and the pressure being exerted by Indigenous and non-Indigenous fishermen alike, it seems likely that there will be some movement on an issue that has been mired for 21 years.

This government is firmly committed to advancing reconciliation, respecting Indigenous treaties, and implementing First Nation rights, and we firmly believe that respectful, constructive dialogue is the way to achieve this, said Fisheries Minister Bernadette Jordan and Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Carolyn Bennett in a joint statement.

At this time we need communication, not confrontation.

Correction  Oct. 19, 2020: This story was edited to clarify that Miramichi is in eastern New Brunswick.

Read more about:
BETHESDA, Md., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The Maryland Higher Education Commission has approved a groundbreaking professional cybersecurity bachelor's degree  the Bachelor of Professional Studies in Applied Cybersecurity (BACS) to be granted by the SANS Technology Institute (SANS.edu), a regionally accredited college in Maryland.

BACS graduates will complete immersion training taught by nationally recognized cybersecurity professionals. The program will include extensive hands-on lab work, and students will earn eight professional cybersecurity certifications demonstrating that they have the practical skills to excel in cybersecurity careers. BACS graduates will also complete all Maryland requirements for general education (English, math, science, arts, and humanities), a robust set of foundational IT and computer science courses, a targeted professional development curriculum to develop effective cybersecurity-focused written and oral communications skills, and an internship as a handler and analyst at the Internet Storm Center.

Expands access and lowers costs by partnering with community colleges

To expand access to the BACS, Montgomery College, Maryland's largest and most technically advanced community college, has established a pathway that enables its students to directly transfer into the BACS program. High school graduates may also be accepted directly into the BACS program, but they must complete their general education and foundational IT courses at Montgomery College before diving into SANS.edu immersion courses. In addition, under Montgomery College's dual enrollment program, high school students who demonstrate a strong aptitude for careers in cybersecurity can complete some of their BACS courses while still in high school. This will enable them to graduate from high school with college credit, saving money in tuition, and to accelerate their completion of the BACS program.

Margaret Latimer, vice president and provost for the collegewide STEM unit at Montgomery College, says, "BACS removes the barrier faced by many community college graduates: industry demand for a bachelor's degree, while leveraging what community colleges already offer to provide an option that is less expensive than many 4-year programs. It is another example of how Montgomery College is meeting its vision to be a national model of educational excellence, opportunity, and student success, characterized by agility and relevance."

Establishes a model for the future of higher education

Sanjay Rai, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at Montgomery College, added that "Montgomery College sees the BACS as an extraordinary illustration that the future of higher education is here. The BACS is an innovative next generation opportunity, building on the work that MC has done over the years to address the need for a well-developed, inclusive and varied talent pipeline for cybersecurity employer needs. Cyber threats have disrupted every sector of our lives; the SANS Technology Institute and MC are responding with a program that improves upon the traditional higher education model in order to address a critical need in the public, private, and government sectors. Our students, including our dually enrolled students, will have the opportunity to be accepted directly into the BACS program, and complete a baccalaureate degree with the expertise they will need to be successful in cybersecurity careers."

"With the help of Montgomery College," said Alan Paller, President of the SANS Technology Institute, "BACS will enable thousands of talented Maryland students to establish strong academic foundations and develop high levels of professional skills giving them a powerful advantage in competing for the important cybersecurity jobs that protect the nation and its infrastructure."

Takes the risk out of finding and hiring new cybersecurity employees for employers

Cybersecurity employers currently invest in sending more than 40,000 of their employees to pursue SANS training and GIAC certifications each year, confirming the value they see in the up-to-date, real-world training SANS provides and in the skills validation of Global Information Assurance Certifications (GIAC). By completing those same SANS courses at SANS.edu, an independent division of the SANS Institute and a sister organization to GIAC, BACS graduates will bring those same cutting-edge and validated skills to employers as new hires.

How to learn more and how to apply to BACS

Applications to the first BACS class will be accepted beginning on November 1, 2020 and ending on December 15, 2020 at www.sans.edu/bacs.

Free Online Information Sessions

October 15: 12 p.m. (ET)

October 21: 4 p.m. (ET)

October 29: 11 a.m. (ET)

Students can learn more about the bachelor's degree program at upcoming free online information sessions featuring Margaret Latimer, the Vice President and Provost for the STEM unit at Montgomery College and Alan Paller, the President of the SANS Technology Institute. More info at www.sans.edu/bacs.

SOURCE SANS Institute

Related Links

www.sans.org


Brad Pitt's legal team reportedly plan on calling on Angelina Jolie's Girl, Interrupted costar Jillian Armenante to testify at the former power couple's upcoming custody trial.

A witness list for Pitt filed on September 21 includes a therapist, security guard, and numerous psychologists, according to Us Weekly.

Pitt will also be testifying, and will have Jolie cross-examined by his attorneys, claims the site.

Testify: Brad Pitt's lawyers reportedly want Angelina Jolie's Girl, Interrupted costar Jillian Armenante to testify at their upcoming custody trial (Jolie and Armenante pictured at the premiere of Girl, Interrupted in 1999)

The trial is set to occur from October 5 to October 23, according to Us Weekly.

DailyMail.com have contacted representatives for Pitt.

Jolie starred opposite Armenante and Winona Ryder in the 1999 film Girl, Interrupted, which followed a troubled young woman at a psychiatric hospital.

Jolie also worked with Armenante in the 2007 film A Mighty Heart.

Legal battle: Pitt will also be testifying, and will have Jolie cross-examined by his attorneys, claims the site

Hollywood family: Jolie attended the Maleficent: Mistress of Evil premiere with children Vivienne, Zahara, Shiloh, and Knox

The former power couple have been locked in a bitter custody battle ever since splitting in 2016.

Relations between the former couple who share six children have deteriorated to the point where they are no longer engaging in family therapy ahead of a custody trial slated for next month, UsWeekly reported earlier this month.

'Tensions have escalated between Brad and Angelina, with family therapy no longer taking place,' a source exclusively told the website.

Flashback: Jolie starred opposite Armenante and Winona Ryder in the 1999 film Girl, Interrupted, which followed a troubled young woman at a psychiatric hospital

Pitt and Jolie had appeared to reach a cordial understanding about co-parenting their kids, with the Once upon A Time... In Hollywood actor spotted leaving the actress' LA home in June after spending time with the children.

However, UsWeekly claimed they have become at odds again over how much time they each get with Pax, 16, Zahara, 15, Shiloh, 14, and 12-year-old twins Knox and Vivienne.

Eldest child Maddox, 19, is allowed to choose his own timetable and is rumored to no longer have any contact with his father.

'Brad wants 50/50 joint physical and legal custody of the kids. Angelina has been unagreeable to those terms,' a source told UsWeekly.

Called it quits: The former power couple have been locked in a bitter custody battle ever since splitting in 2016 (pictured 2019)

The insider added that Jolie 'will only agree to talk about an agreement if the home base for the children isn't Los Angeles. The younger kids are in school in Los Angeles, which Angelina has always been opposed to.'

It's previously been suggested that Jolie wants to relocate to the UK and base the children with her there.

Pitt and Jolie - who enjoyed the moniker Brangelina during their time together - separated in September 2016 when the Maleficent star filed for divorce following an incident aboard a private jet involving son Maddox and Pitt.

All together: Jolie pictured with the kids in Paris in 2017

The two had met on the set of the film Mr. & Mrs. Smith that was released in June 2005.

Several months before the movie's debut, Pitt and then wife Jennifer Aniston had announced they were separating after five years of marriage, with the Friends star subsequently filing for divorce in March 2005.

On January 11, 2006, Jolie finally confirmed the romance with Pitt when she confirmed she was pregnant with his child.

Brad has recently begun dating German model Nicole Poturalski.
Nutrition Specialist, Manila, Philippines

Organization: Unicef

Country: Philippines

City: Manila, Philippines

Office: UNICEF in Manila, Philippines

Closing date: Wednesday, 14 October 2020

Nutrition Specialist, NO3, TA, Manila, Post number 114563

Job no: 534761

Position type: Temporary Appointment

Location: Philippines Division/Equivalent: Bangkok (EAPRO), Thailand

School/Unit: Philippines

Department/Office: Manila, Philippines

Categories: Nutrition, NO-3

UNICEF works in some of the worlds toughest places, to reach the worlds most disadvantaged children. To save their lives. To defend their rights. To help them fulfill their potential.

Across 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, every day, to build a better world for everyone.

And we never give up.

For every child, a fair chance

UNICEF has been an active partner of the Government of the Philippines and civil society in realizing the rights of every Filipino child, in line with priorities to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. UNICEF efforts have been focused on the most vulnerable regions identified by the Government of the Philippines Development Plan, particularly in the regions of Visayas and Mindanao. To ensure that interventions are sustainable and scaled up, UNICEF primarily supports local government units (LGUs) as the main instruments of delivering services and building systems. The level of engagement with government institutions will take into account capacities, economies of scale and sector issues.

Visit this link for more information on UNICEF in the Philippines https://www.unicef.org/philippines/

How can you make a difference?

The Nutrition Specialist will support the development and preparation of the nutrition programme, and is responsible for managing, implementing, monitoring, evaluating, and reporting the programme progress of the Philippines Country Plan for the prevention and treatment of Wasting, in-line with the Global Action Plan (GAP) for Wasting and PIMAM strategic plan. The Nutrition Specialist also supports and build capacity for Nutrition Preparedness and Response including the national nutrition cluster response activities, technical guidance and management support throughout the programming processes to facilitate the administration and achievement of concrete and sustainable results in health systems strengthening maternal, infant and child nutrition.

Under the direct Supervision of the Nutrition Manager, the post shall undertake the following tasks and responsibilities: Support to programme development and planning

Contribute to and support the preparation, design and updating of the situation analysis for the nutrition to ensure comprehensive and current data on maternal and child nutrition is available to guide policy development, and the design and management of nutrition programmes/projects.

Keep abreast of development trends to enhance programme management, efficiency and delivery.

Participate in strategic programme discussions on the planning of nutrition programmes/projects.

Formulate, design and prepare nutrition programme proposal, ensuring alignment with UNICEFs Strategic Plans, Country Programme, and coherence/integration with the UN Partnership Framework for Sustainable Development (PFSD), regional strategies, as well as national priorities, plans and competencies.

Establish specific goals, objectives, strategies, and implementation plans for the nutrition sector(s) based on results-based planning terminology and methodology (RBM). Prepare required documentations for programme review and approval.

Work closely and collaboratively with colleagues and partners to discuss strategies and methodologies, and to determine national priorities/competencies to ensure the achievement of concrete and sustainable results.

Provide technical and operational support throughout all stages of programming processes to ensure integration, coherence and harmonization of programmes/projects with other UNICEF sectors and achievement of results as planned and allocated.

Provide technical support to Samar Province and the UNICEF Samar Province Alternate Focalpoint for the Country Program.

Programme management, monitoring and delivery of results

Plan and/or collaborate with internal and external partners to establish monitoring benchmarks, performance indicators, and UNICEF/UN system indicators and measurements, to assess and strengthen performance accountability, coherence and delivery of concrete and sustainable results for the assigned sector in nutrition programmes.

Participate in monitoring and evaluation exercises, programme reviews and annual reviews with government and other counterparts to assess progress and to determine required action and interventions to achieve results.

Prepare and assess monitoring and evaluation reports to identify gaps, strengths and/or weaknesses in programme management. Identify lessons learned and use knowledge gained for development planning and timely intervention to achieve goals.

Actively monitor programmes and projects through field visits, surveys and/or exchange of information with partners and stakeholders to assess progress. Identify bottlenecks and potential problems and take timely decisions to resolve issues and/or refer to relevant officials for timely resolution.

Monitor and verify the optimum and appropriate use of sectoral programme resources (financial, administrative and other assets) confirming compliance with organizational rules, regulations, procedures, donor commitments, and standards of accountability. Ensure timely reporting and liquidation of resources.

Prepare regular and mandated programme/project reports for management, donors and partners to keep them informed of programme progress

3. Technical and operational support to programme implementation

Provide technical guidance and operational support to government counterparts, NGO partners, UN system partners and other country office partners/donors on the interpretation, application and understanding of UNICEF policies, strategies, processes, best practices, and approaches on nutrition and related issues to support programme development planning, management, implementation, and delivery of results.

Participate in discussions with national partners, clients and stakeholders to promote nutrition and development issues especially in the areas of emergency preparedness, PIMAM and maternal, newborn and child survival and development.

Draft policy papers, briefs and other strategic programme materials for management use, information and/or consideration.

Tags child health child nutrition child rights child survival cluster coordination development planning development trends emergency preparedness good practices health systems health systems strengthening information management information systems knowledge management local government monitoring and evaluation monitoring and reporting nutrition programmes programme implementation programme management social justice sustainable development sustainable development goals

Participate in emergency preparedness initiatives for programme development, contingency planning and/or to respond to emergencies in country or where designated.

Provide technical support to DOH, NNC, the legislative arm of government (Senate ang HOR), and PLCPD in developing relevant laws and IRRs and protecting key nutrition legislation and policy instruments

Provide technical support to NNC and DOH on Cluster Coordination and Information Management as Nutrition Cluster Co-Lead including monitoring and reporting of response accomplishments and challenges

Provide technical support to DOH, its regional offices, and partners on PIMAM, including but not limited to strategic and operational planning, supplies estimation, analysis of bottlenecks, monitoring and reporting.

4.Networking and partnership building

Build and sustain effective close working partnerships with nutrition sector government counterparts and national stakeholders through active sharing of information and knowledge.

Facilitate programme implementation and build capacity of stakeholders to achieve programme goals on maternal and child rights as well as social justice and equity.

Prepare communication and information materials for CO programme advocacy to promote awareness, establish partnership/alliances and support fund raising for nutrition programmes (maternal, newborn and child survival and development).

Participate and/or represent UNICEF in inter-agency discussions, ensuring that UNICEFs position, interests and priorities are fully considered and integrated in the UNPFSD development planning and agenda setting.

Innovation, knowledge management and capacity building

Apply and introduce innovative approaches and good practices to build the capacity of partners and stakeholders, and to support the implementation and delivery of concrete and sustainable programme results.

Keep abreast, research, benchmark, and implement best and cutting-edge practices in nutrition management and information systems. Assess, institutionalize and share best practices and knowledge learned.

Contribute to the development and implementation of policies and procedures to ensure optimum efficiency and efficacy of sustainable programmes and projects.

Organize and implement capacity building initiatives to enhance the competencies of clients and stakeholders to promote sustainable results on nutrition related programmes and projects.

To qualify as an advocate for every child you will have...

An *advanced university degree in one of the following fields is required: nutrition, public health, nutritional epidemiology, global/international health and nutrition, health/nutrition research, policy and/or management, health sciences, nutritional epidemiology, or another health-related science field. *A first University Degree in a relevant field combined with 7 additional years of professional experience may be accepted in lieu of an Advanced University Degree.

A minimum of five years of professional experience in a UN system agency or organization in one or more of the following areas is required: nutrition, public health, nutrition planning and management, nutrition in emergencies, management of acute malnutrition or maternal, infant and child health/nutrition care.

Experience in health/nutrition programme/project development and management in a UN system agency or organization is an asset

A good grasp and understanding of development and humanitarian work is a plus.

Emergency experience an advantage.

How to apply

Qualified candidates are requested to complete an online candidate profile in http://www.unicef.org/about/employ/ by 14 October 2020. Only applications sent through the e-recruitment portal under 534761 will be considered.

By applying through our Talent Management System (TMS) you agree to our privacy statement which is in line with the Philippines Data Privacy Act. You are strongly advised to read carefully through the privacy statement before submitting your application.

UNICEF is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

For every Child, you demonstrate...

UNICEFs values of Care, Respect, Integrity, Trust, and Accountability (CRITA) and core competencies in Communication, Working with People and Drive for Results.

The competencies required for this post are: Core competencies

Nurtures, Leads and Manages People (1)

Demonstrates Self Awareness and Ethical Awareness (2)

Works Collaboratively with others (2)

Builds and Maintains Partnerships (2)

Innovates and Embraces Change (2)

Thinks and Acts Strategically (2)

Drives to achieve impactful results (2)

Manages ambiguity and complexity (2)

Functional Competencies:

Analyzing (3)

Deciding and Initiating action (2)

Applying technical expertise (3) View our competency framework at

http://www.unicef.org/about/employ/files/UNICEF_Competencies.pdf

UNICEF is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities, to apply to become a part of the organization.

UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UNICEF, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination. UNICEF also adheres to strict child safeguarding principles. All selected candidates will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles and will therefore undergo rigorous reference and background checks. Background checks will include the verification of academic credential(s) and employment history. Selected candidates may be required to provide additional information to conduct a background check.

Remarks:

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process.

Temporary Appointment (TA) staff, consultants, UNVs are all considered internal as per the definition of internal candidates.

Advertised: Sep 29 2020 Singapore Standard Time Application close: Oct 14 2020 Singapore Standard Time
Ocado is being sued by a Norwegian company amid allegations the online supermarket 'unlawfully' breached a patent for its warehouse technology.

The food logistics and delivery tech firm is being sued in Britain and the US by Norway-based AutoStore in a legal wrangle which could trigger financial damages running into millions of pounds being forked out if the claim is proven.

In a statement, Ocado said it had not received any court documentation in respect of the matter, adding that 'this is the first we have heard of this new claim.'

Legal action: Ocado is being sued in Britain and the US by Norway-based AutoStore

The legal saga emerged as Ocado overtook Tesco as the country's most valuable grocery retailer on the UK stock market for the first time this week.

Ocado, which was once described by ex-Tesco boss Terry Leahy as a 'charity' case owing to its hefty losses, was worth around 21.7billion against Tesco's 21.1billion valuation at the close of play on Tuesday. The company's share of the grocery market comes in at around 1.7 per cent at present.

FTSE 100-listed Ocado's share price is down over 5 per cent or 137.99p to 2,606p this afternoon.

Karl Johan Lier, chief executive and president of AutoStore, said: 'Since 1996, AutoStore has developed and pioneered technology that has revolutionised retail storage and order fulfilment, and is driving the growth of online retail.

'Our ownership of the technology at the heart of Ocado's warehousing system is clear.

'We will not tolerate Ocado's continued infringement of our intellectual property rights in its effort to boost its growth and attempt to transform itself into a global technology company.'

AutoStore claims Ocado must stop selling its technology and pay damages, according to court documents filed in the US and UK.

In its US legal filing, AutoStore points out that Ocado's deal with US retailer Kruger to install its robotic smart platforms across 20 warehouses, saw Ocado bank 42.6million per site.

AutoStore confirmed it was seeking an order barring Ocado and its partner Tharsus Group from manufacturing and selling 'infringing products and importing them' into the US.

The filing in the High Court in London is calling on the courts to block sales of Ocado's products from Britain as well.

Ocado told This is Money in a statement: 'Ocado Group plc ('Ocado') notes the press release from Autostore today.

'Ocado confirms it has not received any papers in relation to these claims and this is the first we have heard of this new claim.

'We are not aware of any infringement of any valid Autostore rights and of course we will investigate any claims once we receive further details.

'We have multiple patents protecting the use of our systems in grocery and we are investigating whether Autostore has, or intends to infringe those patents. We will always vigorously protect our intellectual property.'

AutoStore boss Lier said that his company's warehouse system operates with storage bins stacked vertically in a grid and stored in a cubic structure, with the bins retrieved by robots that travel on the top of the structure.

Around 500 installations and 18,000 robots across 30 countries are used by firms including UK supermarket Asda, US retailer Best Buy and German airline Lufthansa.

AutoStore added: 'Ocado's infringement of AutoStore's AS/RS intellectual property  including the storage system and robots  is the foundation on which the 'Ocado Smart Platform' (OSP) was built and on which Ocado's business today is based.'

Several alleged infringements also include the 'central cavity design' of the robots, the arrangement of the lifting mechanism and their in-wheel motors.

A court in Norway has already found that AutoStore is entitled to ownership of its patents covering the robots' central cavity technology, it added.

Ocado's technology has been sold around the world, with Marks and Spencer and Morrisons buying up services in Britain.

Prior to selling its tech services, Ocado struggled to turn a profit due to wafer-thin margins of only a few percent on its home delivery business.

Founder Tim Steiner insisted he would continue looking for outside investors to buy the technology, with the Kruger deal marking a turning point, eventually catapulting the firm into the FTSE 100.

The unprofitable grocery division was eventually bought by M&S and turned into a 50/50 joint venture, which offered online food delivery last month for the first time.
(CNN)  Cases of Covid-19 surged among college-age individuals in August and September, just as schools were opening across the country.

Two new studies released on Tuesday take an in-depth look what may be driving the numbers up.

The CDC study

In the first study, researchers at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention looked at nearly 100,000 coronavirus cases reported to the agency between August 2 and September 5.

The study found that during that period, weekly Covid-19 cases among persons aged 18-22 years increased 55% nationally. Researchers found the greatest Increases in the Northeast at 144% and the Midwest at 123%.

"The observed increases in Covid-19 cases among persons aged 18-22 years could be driven by many factors, including changes in behavior or risk profiles resulting from multiple social, economic, and public policy changes during this period. Because approximately 45% of persons aged 18-22 years attend colleges and universities and 55% of those attending identified as White persons, it is likely that some of this increase is linked to resumption of in-person attendance at some colleges and universities," the researchers wrote in the CDC's weekly report on death and disease, the MMWR.

"Previous reports identified young adults as being less likely than other age groups to adhere to some Covid-19 prevention measures, which places them and their close contacts at higher risk for Covid-19," they added.

CNN previously spoke to several psychologists about why students may rebel against Covid-19 safety measures.

"Their decision making ... is more about 'what's in the moment, what am I missing out on, what is the thing that would make me happiest in this moment?'" Ben Locke, the senior director for Counseling & Psychological Services at Pennsylvania State University said.

That imbalance, he said, may cause this age group to make more risky decisions, like attending a party.

The North Carolina Department of Health and University of North Carolina study

The second study, led by a team at the North Carolina Department of Health and the University of North Carolina, showed what happened in real time as students began to return to campus on August 3. The university tried to make moving in safe, spreading it out over a week, reducing crowding in dining halls and taking other measures. But the students gathered and partied, anyway.

The university quickly determined the virus was spreading too fast and moved all classes online. It also asked students to move back home or off-campus.

By August 25, 670 cases of Covid-19 had been confirmed, almost all of them in people under the age of 22.

The largest cluster was at an off-campus apartment complex affiliated with the university.

"The rapid increase in cases within two weeks of opening campus suggests that robust measures are needed to reduce transmission at institutes of higher education, including efforts to increase consistent use of masks, reduce the density of on-campus housing, increase testing for SARS-CoV-2, and discourage student gatherings," the researchers wrote.

So, who is to blame?

The University of Tennessee had a similar event happen and had to scramble to create more quarantine and isolation space as more and more students became infected. Across the nation, many colleges and universities that have reopened amid the pandemic have experienced a similar fate: They opted for in-person learning, with safety precautions in place, but were still hit by Covid-19.

So, what is driving in-person learning to fall flat?

CNN previously reported that there are several reasons, including institutions placing blame on students.

"Any public health plan that requires radical changes in behavior and perfect compliance is doomed to fail," Julia Marcus, an infectious disease epidemiologist at the Harvard Medical School, told CNN in a recent interview. "And that's exactly what's happening."

However, not all of the blame is on the schools and administrators.

Holden Thorp, editor in chief for the "Science" family of academic journals, told CNN he believes colleges were placed in an impossible situation.

"You've got so many constituencies that have so many different views ... The administrators are trying to bridge a divide that really can't be bridged, between what the campus wants and what outside forces want."

No matter the reason, many colleges and universities have opted to stick to virtual learning or have had to revert to virtual learning to be on the safe side.

This story was first published on CNN.com 'Coronavirus cases surge among college-aged individuals just as universities reopened, studies say'
Prashant Bhushan moves Supreme Court, seeks review plea of fine imposed on him in contempt case

India

oi-Ajay Joseph Raj P

New Delhi, Oct 01: Senior lawyer Prashant Bhushan on Thursday filed a petition in the Supreme Court and sought review of its August 31 judgement imposing a fine of Re 1 on him in connection with criminal contempt of court case over his tweets.

It can be seen that Bhushan has already paid the fine of Re 1 but has decided to challenge his conviction in the matter. While paying the fine, Bhushan had made it clear that paying the fine in the registry did not mean that he accepted the Supreme Court's judgement.

'Does not mean I have accepted SC verdict': Prashant Bhushan pays Re 1 fine

On September 14, Bhushan filed a review petition in the Supreme Court against its judgement convicting him and imposing a fine of Re 1 on him for criminal contempt of court in the suo motu contempt case over his tweets.

Hathras sealed ahead of Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi's visit|Oneindia News

Earlier, the senior lawyer had filed another plea in the top court seeking directions for an appeal against conviction in criminal contempt cases to be heard by a larger and a different bench.

Prashant Bhushan was convicted and a fine of Re 1 was imposed on him by the Supreme Court in connection with a suo motu criminal contempt of court case over two of his tweets.

One of the tweets, posted on June 29, was related to his post on a picture of Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sharad Arvind Bobde on a high-end bike. In his second tweet, Bhushan had expressed his opinion on the role of the last four CJIs amid the state of affairs in the country.
HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Chronic Tacos, the California-inspired Mexican grill, is once again giving away FREE TACOS on October 4th in celebration of National Taco Day. This year, through the Chronic Tacos App, customers can redeem their free taco with three easy steps:

Download the Chronic Tacos app Create your account by October 2 On National Taco Day, all loyalty members will be sent a free taco through the 'Rewards' section of the app, that is redeemable only on that day, October 4th.

"We are excited to celebrate Taco Day this year, especially during these uncertain times," said Michael Mohammed, CEO and President of Chronic Tacos. "This year we are changing things up and offering free tacos through our Chronic Tacos App. National Taco day is our favorite day of the year, so we are extremely excited to continue our taco tradition!"

National Taco Day Free Taco offer includes Chicken, Carnitas, Al Pastor, and veggie tacos only. Offer excludes fish, shrimp, steak and Beyond Beef tacos. One taco per customer at participating locations.

About Chronic Tacos

Chronic Tacos is a California-inspired Taco Shop that celebrates authenticity and the individuality of guests through the #TacoLife. They respect tradition and keep it real. Founded in 2002, the Southern California-based brand has over 60 locations operating across the United States, Canada and Japan. The #TacoLife consists of undeniable tacos and the most authentic recipes, a laid back So Cal vibe with an irresistible edge, and only the most personal, friendly service. Chronic Tacos prides itself on serving the highest quality ingredients, with bold flavor profiles, made from authentic Mexican recipes. On the menu, you'll find a wide variety of traditional Mexican items including tacos, burritos, and bowl-ritos, along with some non-traditional items such as the California Burrito and Chronic Fries. Guests are able to walk down the prep line, and see their items being made, whilst adding all the toppings they can imagine. The menu also features kid's meals, all day breakfast, and an array of vegetarian, gluten-free, and vegan options, as well as choices of: Carne Asada (Premium, Grass-Fed Steak), Carnitas (Pork), Al Pastor (Pork), Pollo Asado (Chicken), Beyond Beef (100% Plant-Based Protein), and Beer- Battered or Sauteed Mahi Mahi (Fish) and Shrimp.

The #TacoLife is all about good food, good vibes and good experiences, so to capitalize on this, each taco shop features original artistic designs inspired by traditional "Day of the Dead" art along with lively, engaging music. No matter what Chronic Tacos you visit, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience. For more information, or to find the nearest Chronic Tacos, visit www.chronictacos.com.

Contact:

Matt Kovacs

Blaze PR

(310) 395-5050

[email protected]

SOURCE Chronic Tacos
Pompeo was meeting with the Vatican secretary of state, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, and the foreign minister, Archbishop Paul Gallagher

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo arrived Thursday at the Vatican to meet with top Holy See officials, a day after tensions over American opposition to the Vatican's China policy spilled out in public.

Pompeo was meeting with the Vatican secretary of state, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, and the foreign minister, Archbishop Paul Gallagher. The Vatican declined his request to see Pope Francis, citing Holy See policy to not grant papal audiences during election campaigns, Parolin said.

Pompeo was in Rome to participate in a conference on religious freedom organized by the US Embassy to the Holy See, and to meet with Italian and Vatican officials.

During the Wednesday conference, Pompeo urged the Vatican to join the US in denouncing violations of religious freedom in China, part of the US campaign to criticize Beijing's crackdown on religious and ethnic minorities that has increased amid the coronavirus pandemic and before the Nov. 3 election.

The conference was organized at the same time the Vatican is entering into delicate negotiations with Beijing on extending their controversial 2018 agreement on nominating bishops for China.

The Vatican is seeking to extend the accord, which envisages a process of dialogue in selecting bishops. It signed it in 2018 in hopes it would help unite China's Catholics, who for seven decades have been split between those belonging to an official, state-sanctioned church and an underground church loyal to Rome.

Pompeo has strongly criticized the accord, penning an essay earlier this month suggesting that the Vatican had compromised its moral authority by signing it. His article greatly irritated the Vatican, which saw it as interference in the church's internal affairs for the sake of scoring domestic political points.

The Vatican secretary of state, Parolin, said the Holy See was ``surprised'' by Pompeo's article. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the conference, Parolin said the private meetings Pompeo had scheduled at the Vatican would have been the more appropriate setting to express his concerns, Italian news agency ANSA reported.

Pompeo started his day Thursday visiting the Rome-based Sant'Egidio Community, a Catholic charity active in caring for refugees in Italy and providing HIV-AIDS care in Africa. Arriving at Sant'Egidio's headquarters, Pompeo praised the group's efforts as ``the Lord's work.''

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Linkedin (Agence France-Presse) Paris, France  Thu, October 1, 2020 08:03 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4856ac0 2 Art & Culture Literature,author,books,music,France,cafe,Ernest-Hemingway,jk-rowling,Vincent-Van-Gogh Free

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, certain cities have been required to close down bars and restaurants, with the new restrictions in Marseille making headlines across the country.

Cafe culture has long been associated with life in France but in many countries, cafes are more than places to have a libation and socialize. They have been the birthplace of major iconic cultural works.

JK Rowling penned Harry Potter in Edinburgh's Elephant House, Hemingway wrote A Movable Feast at Paris's Closerie des Lilas, while inspiration for international hit Garota de Ipanema came from a Brazilian girl passing by a Rio de Janeiro bar leading to the beach.

Literature

Harry Potter  JK Rowling

Without the Elephant House pub in Edinburgh, Scotland, the Harry Potter saga may not have seen the light of day. Most of the early novels of the saga were penned in this Scottish pub with a red facade. JK Rowling sat in the back room overlooking the Edinburgh castle, drafting the characters and the whole universe that became an international blockbuster when first published in 1997.

A Movable Feast  Ernest Hemingway

This autobiographical tale by Ernest Hemingway came out after the writer's death. The novel narrates the first few years that Hemingway spent in Paris during the 1920s.

It offers readers a trip through the City of Lights and its most iconic neighborhoods from rue Mouffetard, to Brasserie Lipp and the Les Deux Magots cafe in Saint-Germain-des-Pres.

But it's in the Montparnasse neighborhood that Ernest Hemingway actually wrote A Movable Feast, at Closerie des Lilas, a cafe-restaurant where painters like Renoir and Monet gathered in the mid 19th century.

On a side note, Closerie des Lilas is also where F. Scott Fitzgerald asked Hemingway to read The Great Gatsby before publication.

Being and Nothingness  Jean-Paul Sartre

If Parisian Cafe de Flore had been shut down, would French philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre have produced all of his iconic texts? In an upper room of this historic Saint-Germain-des-Pres cafe, the French writer outlined drafts of Being and Nothingness, published in 1943.

Not far from Sartre, at a table that faced him, his partner Simone de Beauvoir drafted what would go on to become her first hit novel, She Came to Stay.

Read also: The day Hemingway liberated the Ritz bar in Paris

Painting

Cafe Terrace at Night  Vincent Van Gogh

It's a must see for every tourist visiting Arles in the south of France. Located on the Place du Forum, just next to Nord Pinus hotel, Van Gogh made this cafe immortal in 1888. At the time, it was called The Terrace.

The Dutch painter set his easel on the northeastern corner of the Place du Forum and depicted the warm end-of summer atmosphere of this welcoming French cafe.

Music

"Garota de Ipanema"  Antonio Carlos Jobim and Vinicius de Moraes

The most well-known bossa nova tune was written in 1962 in a Rio de Janeiro cafe called Veloso. Music composer Antonio Carlos Jobim and poet Vinicius de Moraes regularly met there. They both drew inspiration from a young Brazilian woman who used to pass by the bar's terrace.

"Garota de Ipanema" became an international hit thanks to Stan Getz and Joao Gilberto's adaptation in English two years later. "The Girl from Ipanema", sung by Astrud Gilberto, is one of the most played songs worldwide, and the legend started in a carioca bar...
Air quality for much of the Bay Area was expected to worsen Thursday as smoke from the Glass Fire in Napa and Sonoma counties blows south, driven by winds that could gust up to 30 mph later in the day.

A Spare the Air alert  which has persisted for much of the week  is in effect until at least Friday.

A swath of unhealthy air blanketed large portions of the South and East Bay, according to the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, including San Jose and Vacaville.

Moving west, Antioch and Livermore reported air conditions that were unhealthy for sensitive groups, like people with respiratory conditions.

San Francisco, Oakland and San Rafael all reported moderate air quality Thursday morning  but those conditions could change rapidly through the day, and likely for the worse.

Wind speeds are expecting to pick up Thursday afternoon. That, combined with forecasted high temperatures and low humidity, prompted the National Weather Service to issue a red flag warning that will last through Friday afternoon now that weather conditions may converge to further whip up the Glass Fire.

Unfortunately, theres a lot of smoke, said district spokeswoman Kristine Roselius Wednesday. The wind has shifted and the smoke from the Glass Fire is moving southeast into those areas like Napa, St. Helena and down into the East Bay.

Harmful, hazy smoke from wildfires has become painfully familiar in the Bay Area. Last month, smoke from the SCU and LNU Lightning Complex fires hovered over the region for several days, even turning the sky in San Francisco bright orange one day.

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.

The smoke returned Wednesday ahead of a heat wave thats expected to bring triple-digit temperatures and dry, gusty winds to the Bay Area. The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for the Bay Area beginning at 11 a.m. Thursday and lasting through 8 p.m.

We expect (the smoke) at the very least through Friday because the Glass Fire is putting out a significant amount of smoke, Roselius said. We also have the August Complex Fire in Northern California and the Zogg Fire (Shasta County). Its just a lot of smoke all-around.

Tatiana Sanchez is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: tatiana.sanchez@sfchronicle.com. Twitter: @TatianaYSanchez.
Microsofts Outlook email service was down, affecting the use of Outlook on the web, desktop, and mobile.

We've received reports of users experiencing issues accessing their Exchange Online accounts via Outlook on the Web, an official Microsoft account tweeted.

While its initial investigation determined the fault was primarily in India, additional data found it was affecting users globally.

Weve collected additional data from the affected infrastructures to determine impact to our Exchange online protocols. Additionally, weve identified this issue to be affecting users worldwide", the company followed-up.

Users may experience problems with various Exchange Online protocols including Outlook desktop, mobile devices as well as those dependent on REST functionality.

According to the website DownDetector, Office 365 and Microsoft Teams was also affected.

Of those making reports about Office 365, 60 per cent were affected by the Outlook issue and over a quarter were struggling to connect to servers.

For those having trouble with Microsoft Teams, nearly half were experiencing issues connecting to the server or logging in.

This was the second of such outages in a week for the software giant.

Yesterday, the company said both SharePoint and OneDrive were not working properly.

The outage took took place mere hours after an issue had also affected the companys Teams, Outlook and Office products.

It is unclear if these issues are related.

"Our engineers have mitigated the issue for Microsoft SharePoint and Microsoft Teams users. The majority of users of our Exchange services are also seeing service recovery as we work towards full resolution", a Microsoft spokesperson said.
President Trump abandoned plans to hold a rally Saturday night in La Crosse, Wis., and will move the event to another part of the state after the mayor pleaded for the event to be canceled because the area is experiencing a spike in coronavirus cases.

The president planned to go ahead with rallies in Wisconsin, a key battleground state, even though the White House coronavirus task force said in a report this week that the states high rate of infections put the state in the red zone for new cases. To the maximal degree possible, increase social distancing mitigation measures until cases decline, it urged Wisconsin officials in a recent report.

La Crosse County is one of the trouble spots in the state: the White House coronavirus task force also designated the county a red zone. The mayor of La Crosse, Tim Kabat, told local reporters on Thursday that the last thing we need is another spike in cases, were already in that severe or high risk, and we dont need anymore.

The presidents campaign said Mr. Trump will hold a rally at an airport hangar in Janesville instead of La Crosse. Janesville is in Rock County, which has seen spikes in coronavirus cases, but is designated as an orange zone, by the task force, indicating a less severe spread of the virus. But some local officials in Janesville pleaded with him on Thursday not to hold a rally there, either.
In a relief to guest teachers, the Delhi government has directed its schools to engage services of all guest teachers who had been hired in the last academic session.

There has been uncertainty over the engagement of the 20,000 odd guest teachers - who are paid per day of work - since schools were closed in view of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The heads of government schools were earlier authorised to call 50 per cent teaching and non-teaching staff from September 21 for smooth running of teaching, learning and assessment activities, for online teaching and tele counselling and other related work, an official order by the Directorate of Education (DoE) said.

Hence, in order to ensure smooth functioning of schools, all heads of government schools are hereby directed to engage all such guest teachers (except non-CTET) who were engaged during the last academic session, subject to the availability of vacancy in their schools, within three days positively, it added.

In July, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia had said guest teachers would be re-engaged as part of the remote teaching-learning plan. The education department had then issued directions to all heads of schools to engage willing guest teachers and contract teachers, wherever required, for online teaching-learning activities.
Pune:

A 23-year-old IT professional working with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) in Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park in Hinjawadi in Pune, allegedly committed suicide by hanging himself at his apartment located in the IT Park, said police.

The incident took place on Thursday, four days after a 23-year-old woman employee of Infosys was allegedly murdered at her workstation in the same IT Park.

According to police, the deceased, Abhishek Kumar, who hailed from Kanpur, was working with TCS in Hinjawadi as a software engineer and stayed at a rented apartment in Phase III of IT hub along with his friends.

Abhishek and his roommates were in the apartment around noon on Thursday. He went to his bedroom saying that he wanted to sleep and locked it from inside, said a police officer, attached to Hinjawadi police station.

Meanwhile, his roommates received a call from a Abhisheks friend, who told them that he was committing suicide. Roommates then entered the bedroom through a window and found him hanging from the ceiling fan. He was then rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was declared brought dead, the officer added.

According to police, the deceased might have sent a message or a photo to his friend before committing suicide.

We have not received any suicide note from the spot, however, primary investigations have revealed that he was depressed after his break-up with a girl. We are yet to record statements of his roommates and his cellphone is yet to be checked, the police officer said.

After the post mortem, his body was handed over to his parents, said police.

On Sunday, a 25-year-old woman software engineer from Kerala, Rasila Raju OP, working at Infosys was allegedly strangled to death by a security guard on the premises of her company in Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park in Hinjawadi.

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Leaning into the renewed sense of connection and spirit of community inspired by the global pandemic, Kors looked closer to home to cast the talent for his latest Watch Hunger Stop campaign, the brand's long-running philanthropic initiative in partnership with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP). Renowned for starring a long list of celebrity ambassadors including Kate Hudson, Halle Berry and Lupita Nyong'o, this year's campaign instead focuses on Michael Kors employees from across all levels of the organization, individuals who volunteered to further support the cause by stepping in front of the camera.

The resulting imagery, shot by Menelik Puryear against brilliantly colored backgrounds and accented with still photos of fruit and vegetables, is an exuberant, heartfelt expression of collaboration and commitment by Team Kors. The staffers are pictured wearing the special-edition Watch Hunger Stop 2020 designs: a white, 100% organic cotton LOVE T-shirt, $40; and a blue denim tote, $58, made with 25% Repreve recycled polyester. Both are adorned with a specially designed red love heart patch. All profits from the sale of the tee and tote go to WFP.*

"The idea behind Watch Hunger Stop has always been to connect communitiesto share and focus our resources, our voices and our attention to solve the problem of hunger. Now, in the face of this global pandemic, we see just how interconnected we all are, and this reinforced my belief that we all want to do good and make a difference in the world," says Kors. "Casting and photographing our employees for this campaign was very special. People talked about their pride in working on Watch Hunger Stop over the years, and their eagerness to help those in need."

Engagement is crucial in the march toward Zero Hunger, and this year's Watch Hunger Stop campaign includes innovative and inviting social media initiatives. A special Instagram camera effect (also known as a "filter") called "Share Your Heart," allows each user to join the community and spread the love. Each post using the "Share Your Heart" filter triggers a donation of 50 meals to WFP.* The filter can be found on the @michaelkors Instagram profile in the filters tab. The brand also continues to encourage people to "Wear It and Share It". Each selfie, video or "Reels" post to a public Instagram account with the LOVE t-shirt or tote and the hashtag #WatchHungerStop, will result in a donation of 50 meals to WFP.*

Now in its eighth year, Michael Kors' Watch Hunger Stop campaign is focused specifically on helping WFP provide much-needed school meals to children in food-insecure regions of the world. It's exciting to announce that this year, Watch Hunger Stop reached the major milestone of delivering 20 million school meals through WFP's school meals programan achievement made possible by the extraordinary support and generosity of friends all over the world. The brand looks forward with pride and optimism to achieving WFP's goal of Zero Hunger.

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT

The LOVE T-shirt and tote will be available online and in select Michael Kors Lifestyle stores globally from the 1st of October, 2020. Michael Kors will donate all profits from every LOVE T-shirt and tote sold through official Michael Kors channels to the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP)* to support children in need. Throughout the month of October, Michael Kors customers can make a donation to WFP at select Michael Kors stores around the globe. Just $5 feeds a child in school for one month. Or go to WatchHungerStop.com and follow the on-screen link to donate to WFP directly (select countries only).

For more information, please visit the following:

Michael's World: http://www.michaelkors.com/michaelsworld

@MichaelKors on Instagram + Instagram Stories: http://instagram.com/michaelkors

@MichaelKors on IGTV: https://www.instagram.com/michaelkors/channel/?hl=en

Michael Kors on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/michaelkors

Michael Kors on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/michaelkors

Michael Kors on Facebook Messenger: m.me/MichaelKors

@MichaelKors on Twitter: http://twitter.com/michaelkors

@MichaelKors on Weibo: http://weibo.com/michaelkors

Search for "Michael Kors" on Weixin and WeChat

Search for "Michael Kors" on LINE Japan

Search for "Michael Kors" () on Kakao Korea

To purchase the LOVE t-shirt or tote, visit www.watchhungerstop.com

To learn more about WFP, visit http://www.wfp.org

World Food Programme on Facebook: www.facebook.com/worldfoodprogramme

World Food Programme on Instagram: www.instagram.com/worldfoodprogramme

@WFP on Twitter: twitter.com/wfp

*PROGRAM DETAILS: For each Watch Hunger Stop LOVE T-shirt or tote purchased from a Michael Kors retail store or official Michael Kors website, Michael Kors will donate 100% of profits (equivalent to the average value of 100 meals or US $25) to WFP. For each Watch Hunger Stop LOVE T-shirt or tote selfie posted to an Instagram public account tagged with #WatchHungerStop, Michael Kors will donate 50 meals (equivalent to US $12.50) to WFP. For each selfie posted to an Instagram account using the "Share Your Heart" filter, Michael Kors will donate 50 meals (equivalent to US $12.50) to WFP. Michael Kors will donate up to two million meals to WFP through 9/30/2021. All funds raised will be donated to WFP USA, a 501(c)(3) US charity that supports the programs of WFP. WFP does not endorse any product or service.

About Watch Hunger Stop

Watch Hunger Stop, established in 2013, raises funds and awareness to help achieve a world with Zero Hunger. The brand's partner in the effort is the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), and funds go to support WFP's school meals program. In 2015, Michael Kors was named a WFP Goodwill Ambassador; in 2016, he was awarded the McGovern-Dole Leadership Award by WFP USA for his dedicated efforts to highlight and alleviate the crisis of hunger.

About Michael Kors

Michael Kors is a world-renowned, award-winning designer of luxury accessories and ready-to-wear. His namesake company, established in 1981, currently produces a range of products under Michael Kors Collection, MICHAEL Michael Kors and Michael Kors Mens, including accessories, ready-to-wear, footwear, wearable technology, watches, and a full line of fragrance products. Michael Kors stores are operated in the most prestigious cities in the world. In addition, Michael Kors operates digital flagships across North America, Europe and Asia, offering customers a seamless omni-channel experience.

About the World Food Programme

The United Nations World Food Programme is the world's largest humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies, building prosperity and supporting a sustainable future for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on such statements because they are subject to numerous uncertainties and factors relating to the operations and business environment of Capri Holdings Limited (the "Company"), the global fashion luxury group behind Michael Kors, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond the Company's control. Forward-looking statements include information concerning the Company's possible or assumed future results of operations, including descriptions of its business strategy. These statements often include words such as "may," "will," "should," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "plan," "estimate" or similar expressions. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on assumptions that the Company has made in light of management's experience in the industry as well as its perceptions of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors that it believes are appropriate under the circumstances. You should understand that these statements are not guarantees of performance or results. They involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Although the Company believes that these forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, you should be aware that many factors could affect its actual financial results or results of operations and could cause actual results to differ materially from those in these forward-looking statements.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Dinesh Kandiah

Division Vice President, Global Marketing and Communications

MICHAEL KORS

T: 917.934.2427

E: Dinesh.Kandiah@michaelkors.com

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1294860/Michael_Kors__Watch_Hunger_Stop_2020_Lead_Image.jpg



Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/747502/Michael_Kors_Logo.jpg



Related Links

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SOURCE Michael Kors (USA), Inc.
OTTAWA, ON, Oct. 1, 2020 /CNW/ - The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the celebration of the Mid-Autumn Festival:

"Tonight, we join many Asian communities in Canada and around the world to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival.

"Celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth month of the lunar calendar, when the moon is at its fullest and brightest, the Mid-Autumn Festival is a time to give thanks for the harvest and successes over the past year.

"To mark this occasion, many communities usually join together to light colourful lanterns, share traditional meals and mooncakes, and exchange greetings and gifts. They also admire the spectacular beauty of the full moon, which represents family unity and prosperity. This year, as we continue to fight the global COVID-19 pandemic and follow health guidelines to keep each other and our communities safe, people will celebrate at home and turn to virtual ways to mark this special day.

"The Festival is also an opportunity to honour the many communities that observe this day. This year in particular, as we see an increase in anti-Asian racism across the country, we are reminded of the importance to speak out against discrimination in all its forms, celebrate our differences, and stay united. We are stronger because of the many contributions that Asian communities have made, and continue to make, to our country.

"On behalf of all Canadians, Sophie and I offer our best wishes to everyone celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival, here in Canada and around the world."

This document is also available at http://pm.gc.ca

SOURCE Prime Minister's Office

For further information: PMO Media Relations: [email protected]

Related Links

http://pm.gc.ca/


Michael Frederick Jr. made the remarks after being given a moment to speak about bond

WARREN, Mich. (AP)  A 24-year-old white man accused of firing shots into the home of a Black suburban Detroit family who put a Black Lives Matter sign in their front window asked for forgiveness during a court hearing Thursday.

Michael Frederick Jr. made the remarks after being given a moment to speak about bond. He was appearing by video in Warren District Court for arraignment on charges including ethnic intimidation.

Read More: White Ohio police chief explains BLM support: We have to listen to people

Frederick told Judge Michael Chupa that he wanted Eddie and Candace Hall to forgive him and that he acted out-of-character.

This wasnt about the color of anyones skin, he added.

Chupa told him a couple of times not to discuss the case. The judge entered not guilty pleas on behalf of Frederick for each count and set his bond at $200,000. Frederick requested a court-appointed lawyer.

A court conference was set for Oct. 13 and Fredericks preliminary examination is scheduled for Oct. 20.

On Sept. 7, shots were fired at the Halls home in Warren. Two days later, someone painted a swastika on one of their vehicles, slashed the tires and threw a large stone through their front window. Outside, they discovered the swastika and found that someone had written terrorist Black Lives Matter, not welcome and a phrase containing an expletive on their pickup truck.

Candace Hall stands in front of graffiti written on her truck in front of her Warren, Mich., home on Thursday, Sept. 10, 2020. (David Guralnick/Detroit News via AP)

The following day, someone fired a bullet through the Halls front window and police found six shell casings outside the house.

Read More: Texas teacher fired for refusing to stop wearing Black Lives Matter mask

A neighbors home surveillance video showed a masked and hooded man carrying what appears to be a handgun outside the Halls home. Frederick, who lives in the Halls neighborhood, was arrested Tuesday and confessed, Warren Police Commissioner Bill Dwyer told reporters Wednesday.

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The post White Michigan man seeks forgiveness in attack on Black familys home appeared first on TheGrio.
The Uttar Pradesh Police cited forensic reports on Thursday to deny that the 19-year-old Dalit woman, whose death and forced cremation sparked nationwide outrage, was raped, contradicting statements by the victim and her mother.

Additional director general (ADG) of UP police, Prashant Kumar, said forensic examination revealed that the woman, who succumbed to her injuries at Delhis Safdarjung hospital on Tuesday, was not raped.

WATCH | Hathras horror: UP cop cites forensic report, says no rape

The samples did not have sperm and thus makes it clear that no rape or gang rape took place with the girl, he said. Hathras district magistrate Praveen Kumar also denied gang-rape charges.

Experts pointed to lapses in the medical examination procedure, which occurred eight days after the alleged rape, and said it violated national and international guidelines that say the scrutiny must be done at the earliest in cases of sexual assault.

Also Read: Hathras gangrape: Police stifle protests after forcibly cremating victim

For India, guidelines laid down by the Union ministry of health and family welfare say the medical examination must happen within four days of the assault. However, internationally, countries also collect samples up to seven days. After seven days, chances are usually bleak of finding any evidence of consequence, said a senior forensic expert from a government hospital on condition of anonymity.

Activists said the rape allegations notwithstanding, the murder of a young Dalit woman needed to be strictly punished. The death of the girl points to the impunity enjoyed by the Thakur caste in the region. The strictest punishment is needed in this heinous case, said Sumedha Boudh of the Rashtriya Dalit Mahila Adhikar Andolan.

The woman, who hailed from the Valmiki caste, was allegedly gang-raped by four men from the Thakur caste on September 14. She was first moved to the district hospital in Aligarh, where her statement was recorded on September 22, and finally shifted to Delhi on September 28.

Also Read: Media will go, well still be here: Top official on visit to Hathras family

She succumbed to her injuries on Tuesday, triggering protests by Dalit groups in Delhi and elsewhere in the country.

In the early hours of Wednesday, police drove the victims body and family back to Hathras, where the woman was forcibly cremated at 2.30am, sparking anger and allegations from opposition parties that the authorities were trying to bury evidence.

Also Read: Rahul Gandhi, sister Priyanka detained; not allowed to march to Hathras to meet UP womans family

On Thursday, Safdarjung hospital issued the womans death summary and autopsy report, which mentioned strangulation, cervical injuries, sepsis and cardiopulmonary arrest as the final diagnosis. The private parts showed healed tears and wounds, said the postmortem report.

Citing a report by Agras Forensic Sciences Laboratory, Kumar said some people misrepresented the facts to disturb social harmony and create caste violence. Police took immediate action in the case and now we will identify those who tried to disturb social harmony and law and order, he said.

Also Read: Under fire for supporting actors, Ramdas Athawale to meet Hathras victims family

Kumar said the woman in her first statement to police didnt mention rape initially. The case FIR filed at Chandpa police station on September 14 also initially mentioned attempt to murder, and sections concerning rape were added eight days later. On Thursday, unverified videos showing the mother and the daughter making these statements did the rounds as the battle of narratives heated up.

But the victims family pointed to statements by the woman in hospital and her mother that alleged rape.

In a declaration recorded before the magistrate on September 22, the woman named all four men -- Sandip Singh, Ramu Singh, Ravi Singh and Lavkush Singh, who have been arrested  and said she was raped by them. She said she was afraid to leave the house because she was harassed for six months by the men, said a person who was present when the statement was being recorded.

Also Read: Govt may declare Hathras village a Covid containment zone, says DM

The statement of the mother, also recorded at the same time, mentioned that the upper-caste families had been hostile to them for years. The victims grandfather had, in 2001, filed cases against the families of Ramu and Sandip of criminal intimidation, hurt and under the SC/ST Atrocities Act. That case was settled in 2015.

These declarations, experts said, should be treated by police as important pieces of evidence. The dying declaration is the most important piece of statement. Such a statement made in front of a magistrate is enough to land a person in jail for life, said former UP director general of police Vikram Singh.

Lucknow-based legal expert Rohit Kant said when the woman alleged rape in her statement before death, then all FSL and postmortem reports became irrelevant. The victims word should be given priority, he said.

At the village, a three-member special investigation team visited the family and questioned them while authorities imposed prohibitory orders and barricaded all entry points.

Earlier in the day, local police said three constables on duty in the village had displayed Covid-like symptoms and that the entire area may be categorised as a containment zone (something that would effectively make it off limits to visitors) but by evening the Hathras chief medical officer said no such zone had been set up at the spot.
The COVID-19 pandemic has made 2020 a tough year for many businesses, but for many Indigenous enterprises, its been even tougher, according to a new report by the Atlantic Provinces Economic Council.

When this years ledgers are totalled, Atlantic Indigenous businesses are expecting a 40 per cent drop in own-source revenues, APEC states in the report commissioned on behalf of the Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat.

This drop will result in a dramatic decline in community services, said Fred Bergman, senior policy analyst at APEC, noting a second wave could further compound the issue.

The federal government doubled the Indigenous Community Support Fund, which covers preparedness measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and provides for mental health, educational, and other supports for Elders and vulnerable community members, to $610 million as part of its pandemic response measures. Bergman said its a step in the right direction, but APEC is calling for the fund to be doubled once more, a move that he added would still cover only 35 per cent of the anticipated fiscal shortfall for Atlantic First Nations.

More than two out of five Atlantic First Nation businesses are expecting their revenues to drop by at least 50 per cent because of COVID-19, said Bergman. Thats a higher proportion than the 30 per cent for all Atlantic businesses.

Prior to the pandemic, the Atlantic Indigenous economy was valued at $1.1 billion, with First Nations business sales of $1.6 billion in 2016, Bergman stated in the report.

The pandemic has resulted in lower revenues from fishing, gaming, retail, hospitality and tourism, he said.

There are also modest declines in retail activity, due to lower fuel prices and less foot traffic, said Bergman, adding that some gas bars experienced a 25 per cent drop in revenues.

Indigenous tourism in the province normally directly employs 829 people, according to the Indigenous Tourism Board of Canada.

Patricia Dunnett, general manager of Metepenagiag Heritage Park and Red Bank Lodge, near Miramichi, said numerous international visitors originally booked from May to October had to cancel earlier this summer due to pandemic-related travel bans. Other operators had to reduce the maximum number of guests per tour.

Similarly, powwows, which are a central source of revenue for many artists, craftspeople and others were all cancelled.

In St. Marys First Nation, while sales at the community grocery store initially climbed by 20 per cent at the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak, the store had to pay more for cleaners, security, and personal protective equipment. It also paid employees a $2 per hour premium. However, sales soon diminished due to less foot traffic, resulting in a 10 per cent net loss, said Bergman.

Many Indigenous businesses did not qualify for the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy because they were tax-exempt and could not meet the burden of proof by CRA, said Bergman.

APEC is calling for broadening of the eligibility rules for the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy to include all Indigenous businesses, said Bergman.

Indigenous businesses had a larger drop in revenues, more layoffs and a smaller proportion than non-Indigenous businesses will survive a year without support, he said.

Calls to Fort Folly, Buctouche and Elsipogtog First Nations requesting comment on the report were not returned by press time.

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Sixty iron ore miners in the city of Krivoy Rog in eastern Ukraine have spent almost the entire month of September underground, carrying out a strike for increased pay and benefits and against the incompetent oligarch-backed management.

Beginning on September 3, twenty-nine workers refused to come to the surface, occupying the October Mine which belongs to the privately owned Krivoy Rog Iron Ore Company (KZRK). Within days, three other nearby iron ore mines had joined the strike and the number of miners occupying the mines had grown to 393.

While the number of miners remaining underground has fallen due to health issues incurred by staying underground for such long periods of time, workers have continued to strike with the support of their families and the Ukrainian working-class who have carried out protests supporting them both in Krivoy Rog and the capital of Kiev.

The Krivoy Rog Iron Ore Company is jointly owned by financial firms Metinvest and Privat, which are owned by Ukraines billionaire oligarchs Rinat Akhmetov and Igor Kolomoisky, respectively.

While Akhmetov has a net worth of over $6 billion, workers at the Krivoy Rog October Mine reported making just $330 a month. They work 1,200 meters underground in extremely dangerous conditions.

After striking in 2017 and receiving assurances that wages would rise in increments, management has recently cut off all raises and reverted to its former poverty wages.

As a result of their direct confrontation with Ukraines wealthiest oligarchs, striking miners and their families have reported being harassed by management, with their personal details and addresses menacingly posted to social media by KZRKs management. Thugs, who had been tipped off by company management that the workers were not at home and how to best break into their homes, have broken into the apartments of strikers.

While the Krivoy Rog workers are nominally represented by the Independent Trade Union of Miners of Ukraine, the union has done its best to prevent the miners occupation from spreading. It has even refused to call it a strike so as not to anger the Ukrainian government. Workers and their families have led the occupation independently from the union, setting up tents outside the companys headquarters and circulating their own petitions.

Predictably, the miners courageous strike has been met with a media blackout from much of Ukraines oligarch-controlled capitalist press. The media blackout is motivated, above all, by fear that the strike could spread further throughout Ukraine and to other former Soviet republics. In August, a strike wave, which also included many miners, shook the government of Alexander Lukashenko in neighboring Belarus.

Despite the media blackout, within days following the outbreak of the Krivoy Rog strike, reports surfaced of workers taking inspiration from the miners and carrying out their own actions against the ruling class.

On September 8, workers at the Berdyansk Sea Trade Port, located approximately 400 km southeast of Krivoy Rog, stopped work and demanded the resignation of the ports management.

Later on September 14, three-hundred workers at a pipe plant in the northeastern city of Sumy likewise stopped work and demanded payment for unpaid wages.

On September 21, workers at the Kremenchuk Automobile Plant, which is owned by another Ukrainian billionaire oligarch Kostyantyn Zhevago, stopped work and took to the streets. They blocked the streets in front of the factory to demand promised wages that have not been paid out in over eight months.

As a result of the ongoing privatization of state-owned enterprises that has been carried by successive Ukrainian governments and accelerated by the current regime of President Volodomyr Zelensky, many Ukrainian workers have seen their wages, benefits, and working conditions plummet. Their factories have been passed from one oligarch-owned investment firm to another, following privatization. Agreed upon contracts are often violated by management and workers in both the private and public sectors can go months without pay.

Like all over the world, the coronavirus pandemic has led a further, massive deterioration in the already miserably low living standards of broad sections of the working class. Ukraine is now in the midst of a second wave and has recorded several new record highs of new cases in the past few days. As of September 30, there were over 202,0000 confirmed cases in the country of just over 40 million.

The strike in Krivoy Rog itself was preceded by a strike of coal miners at the Nadiya coal mine in the western region of Lviv who struck underground and occupied the mine throughout the summer due to unpaid wages. The strike only ended when the Ukrainian government intervened and promised to compensate the miners for unpaid wages. The government also announced that it would investigate the mines management for its failure to pay the salaries and selling coal at below-market prices.

Ukraines mining industry employs approximately 194,000 workers. Despite extremely hazardous conditions and crumbling equipment and infrastructure, it is still highly valued by international finance capital due to the large amount of mineral deposits present in the country.

According to Innspired Investing News, Ukraine is home to one of the largest proportions of iron ore deposits on the planet with an estimated 27 billion tons accounting for more than 10 percent of the earths reserves. The country also has the highest titanium reserves in Europe as well as large deposits of coal, natural gas, oil, salt, sulfur, graphite, magnesium, kaolin, nickel and mercury.

Both the current Zelensky government and the previous regime of Petro Poroshenko have carried out a policy of closing Ukraines remaining unprofitable state-owned mines while privatizing the more profitable ones, which contain sought after minerals such as iron ore.

President Zelensky, who was born and raised in Krivoy Rog, has neither commented on the miners strike nor visited his hometown to speak with the striking workers.

Zelensky is well aware that to do so would anger the very same forces to which he owes his entire political career. Last week it was revealed by the newspaper Ukrainska Pravda, that Zelenskys own Servant of the People party only exists due to the beneficence of the oligarch and Krivoy Rog mine-owner Rinat Akhmetov, who doles out approximately $2.5 million per month to back Zelensky and his party. Above all, Zelensky fears drawing any further attention to a strike that threatens to encourage a much broader movement by the working class.
SARAJEVO, Bosnia-Herzegovina: Two people were killed and 18 others were hurt in a clash among migrants in the northwestern part of the country, Bosnian police said Thursday.

The violence took place late Wednesday in the northwestern town of Bihac, police said. A police patrol came to the scene following a call from a Bihac resident. The injured migrants, including 10 seriously, have been transferred to a local hospital.

It wasnt immediately clear what sparked the clashes, but the migrants long journeys and uncertain future often lead to tensions among them.

Migrants have flooded into the northwestern Bosnian town because its located near the border with European Union member nation Croatia.

Thousands of people who fled poverty or violence in their home countries have been stuck in Bosnia and other Balkan countries as they try to reach Western Europe. Many migrants have been sleeping rough or in makeshift camps.

Aid workers have voiced fears over conditions that migrants face as cold weather approaches with the end of summer.

Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor
WATERLOO, ON, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- To celebrate fall, Siborg Systems Inc. is offering up to 30% off on their electronic testing tools in the Online LCR-Reader Store and on Amazon sales channels in North America and Europe. The sale includes their LCR-Reader and Smart Tweezers multimeter devices, featuring the new Bluetooth enabled LCR-Reader-MPA model. The sale will begin October 1-st, 2020 and will end October 30-th at 11:59 EST.

LCR-Reader-MPA Bluetooth Component Tester enables 1 click Pass/Fail component test. Digital Multimeter Catalog from Siborg Systems Inc

Siborg has been offering test equipment for Surface Mount Technology since the early 2000's when they initiated Smart Tweezers multimeter project. Since then, Siborg has created a new line of tweezer-based multimeters, starting the LCR-Reader budget-friendly devices in 2013. The LCR-Reader followed the tried-and-true design of a powerful multimeter combined with a set of sharp gold-plated tweezers as probes. The devices can determine the type of component when it is in contact with the probes; the multimeter will also determine the best test parameters to use when measuring with the best possible accuracy.

Budget-friendly LCR-Reader lacks some features; the device can test with a 0.5% basic accuracy, but only allows users to change to measure LCR and ESR.

Siborg's online sale will include these popular devices, as well as their other test equipment

The original budget friendly LCR-Reader; 0.5% basic accuracy, LCR-ESR measurement

LCR-Reader-MPA; 0.1% basic accuracy, LCR/ESR, LED, Voltage/Current, Oscilloscope, etc

Smart Tweezers ST5S and ST5S-BT ; 0.2% basic accuracy, LCR/ESR, Diode

; 0.2% basic accuracy, LCR/ESR, Diode LCR-Reader-CT; recently released Ring Coil Tester

LCR-Reader Kelvin Probe; two-wire connector for LCR-Reader and Smart Tweezers

Since the initial offering of Smart Tweezers in the early 2000's Siborg has put a major effort into developing new test tools. The first product in the new line was a budget friendly LCR-Reader in 2013 and then expanded to include the LCR-Reader-MP in 2018 and LCR-Reader-MPA in 2019 devices. These offer an unrivalled selection of functions, the widest possible measurement ranges and highest available accuracy at 0.1%, outperforming Smart Tweezers. Features include 100 kHz test signal frequency, super cap testing, oscilloscope, AC/DC voltage/current measurements, easy short/open calibration, frequency meter, signal generator mode and more.

The recently released LCR-Reader-MPA BT offers Bluetooth measurement recording and the ability to quickly test components using pre-set test conditions. The device connects to the LCR-MPA-BT Logger program for PC and Android. The main feature of the program is the custom component test profiles and automatic pass/fail granting. Users set specific values that component must meet; when tested, the program will determine if the component meets these standards and grants a pass/fail status. The program reflects this status by changing the display color to red if failed, as well as marking the values green(pass) or red (fail) in the recorded data.

There are 2 kinds of custom test profiles: Single Component Test and Multiple Component Test. Single Component Test is used when the same component type is being repeatedly tested. Multiple Component Test is best when testing full PCBs and users need to record various types of components. All data can be exported to spreadsheets for later analysis.

Siborg's sale will begin on October 1st, 2020 and will run until October 30st at 11:59 EST. Customers can make a purchase online through the LCR-Reader Online Store or through Siborg's Amazon sales channels in USA , Canada and Europe .

Contact: Siborg Systems Inc, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, Tel 519-888-9907, Toll Free 877-623-7576, Fax 519-725-9522, E-mail [email protected], Web https://www.siborg.com/

SOURCE Siborg Systems Inc.

Related Links

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The United States has taken in those huddled masses yearning to breathe free because, first and foremost, doing so reflects American values. We like to consider our nation a city upon a hill for those fleeing religious persecution, political violence, genocide, tyranny; Americans are a people blessed and generous enough to offer refuge to some of the worlds most vulnerable. Just what this country offered so many generations of immigrants before, including many of our own ancestors.
JEFFERSON CITY  Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt signed on to a letter urging the U.S. Senate to promptly confirm the nomination of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the U.S. Supreme Court.

The letter to Senate leaders, signed by 22 Republican attorneys general and dated Wednesday, said, Judge Barrett is a distinguished legal scholar and an exceptional appellate judge with a track record of interpreting the Constitution according to its text and original public meaning.

The GOP-controlled Senate is already moving swiftly to place Barrett on the court after President Donald Trump said he would nominate her following the death last month of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

If confirmed, Barrett, a conservative, would replace Ginsburg, a liberal, moving the court to a 6-3 conservative majority.

U.S. Sens. Roy Blunt and Josh Hawley have both indicated that they support Barrett, and would vote for confirmation before Election Day.

Hawley has said he would only support a nominee who believes the 1973 case guaranteeing the right to an abortion nationwide, Roe v. Wade, was wrongly decided.

In the near term, the high court is scheduled to hear arguments next month in a lawsuit by Republican attorneys general that targets the Affordable Care Act.

The lawsuit is the main point of contention in Missouris race for attorney general.

If the court strikes down Obamacare, Schmitts Democratic opponent Rich Finneran has repeatedly noted that without a replacement, consumer protections implemented a decade ago would vanish.

Since 1975, it has taken an average of about 70 days for the Senate to confirm a justice to the Supreme Court, according to The Washington Post. Ginsburg, before she died, said she wanted the next president to name her replacement.

The decision to confirm a Supreme Court justice is one of the most sacred and consequential duties of the U.S. Senate. The process should not be rushed, Finneran said in a statement.

I believe we should heed Justice Ginsburgs dying wish that her replacement not be seated until the American people have spoken in this election, he said. The Attorney General is free to offer his opinion on any judges qualifications, but it is the American people who should decide.

As of last week, before Trump named Barrett, an average of 12 polls by the outlet FiveThirtyEight showed a majority of respondents supported waiting until next year to fill the seat.

The outlet found 52% of respondents supported the winner of the election filling the seat next year, versus 39% who supported Trumps ability to do so this year.

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As several groups and political outfits continue to protest against the brutal gang-rape and murder of a 20-year-old Dalit woman in Uttar Pradeshs Hathras, a senior official said that the forensic report of the victim has not confirmed rape.

The forensic report makes it clear the woman was not raped," said Additional Director General (Law and Order) Prashant Kumar on Thursday.

The postmortem report says the victim died due to her neck injury. The Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) report hasnt found sperm in samples," he said.

Even the woman in her statement to police did not mention about rape but talked about marpeet (beating) only," said Kumar. For disturbing social harmony and create caste violence, some persons wrongly presented facts. Such people will be identified and legal action will be taken."

Kumar said the cause of the death is injury to neck and the trauma resulting from it.

The postmortem of the woman, who died in Delhis Safdarjung Hospital on Tuesday a fortnight after being gang-raped, has revealed that she suffered a fracture in her neck as a result of repeated strangulation.

The report makes observations about injury to the cervical spine produced by indirect trauma and its resultant sequelae." The accused strangled her repeatedly, resulting in the fracture in the neck, the report confirmed, while also mentioning a ligature mark over the neck. The ligature mark over the neck is consistent with attempted strangulation but did not contribute to death in this case," it said.

The report, which has been signed by three doctors, said, fracture of C6 cervical vertebra was present with extravasations of blood along the fracture line. The postmortem was conducted by doctors of Safdarjung Hospital in the presence of police personnel, sources had earlier told news agency PTI.

The womans father and cousin sat on a dharna outside the hospital on Tuesday. They were joined by Bhim Army and Congress workers before the body was taken to Uttar Pradesh.

The 20-year-old Dalit woman was raped in a village in UPs Hathras by four men on September 14. The woman had died two weeks after she was attacked brutally while helping her mother in the fields. She had suffered multiple fractures, paralysis and a gash in her tongue in the horrific assault.

She was admitted to Aligarh Muslim Universitys Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and Hospital and shifted to Safdarjung Hospital where she succumbed to her injuries on Tuesday. The woman was cremated in Hathras during the early hours of Wednesday, with her family alleging that the local police forced them to conduct the last rites in the dead of the night.

All four attackers, upper-caste men from the womans village, are in jail. They will now also be charged with murder. The UP police is under scrutiny over alleged lapses throughout the case, and the inexplicable rush in cremation has further added to anger and confusion in the village.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 17:33:37|Editor: huaxia

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A flag-raising ceremony to celebrate the 71st anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China is held at the Tian'anmen Square in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 1, 2020. (Xinhua/Ren Chao)

BEIJING, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- The People's Republic of China embraces its 71st founding anniversary amid the country's race against time to realize national rejuvenation withstanding various challenges, thus evincing a test of courage as the road ahead is not devoid of struggles.

Since the beginning of this year, the country has grappled with numerous challenges. The sudden outbreak of the COVID-19 epidemic, severe floods and the increasingly uncertain external environment have all served as a reminder that national rejuvenation will not come easy. To realize this grand dream, China must fight a valiant battle.

Thanks to the unified efforts of all Chinese people under the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC), the country forged a heroic feat against COVID-19 and became the first major global economy to rebound. Victory in building a moderately prosperous society in all respects is within sight, thereby fully demonstrating the strength of the CPC leadership and China's socialist system.

China has benefited from the world peace and development. Meanwhile, a burgeoning China indicates a greater force for fairness and justice. The country is committed to promoting an open and inclusive world economy, with the virtue of multilateralism to safeguard world peace and stability.

However, the progress achieved so far cannot be an excuse to stop moving forward as China is still a developing nation. The country has arrived at a critical point of whether it could avoid the middle-income trap, a typical conundrum faced by many developing middle-income economies. China must advance reforms to tackle challenges in ecological protection, employment, healthcare, housing and education.

China must also face up to external challenges involving certain countries that attempt to contain its development through bullying tactics and incite unwarranted provocations on issues related to Xinjiang, Tibet, Hong Kong, Taiwan and the South China Sea. Such forces are pushing the world into the abyss of ideological confrontation and clash of civilizations.

The road ahead is marred by trials and hardships, but battling difficulties will strengthen the nation's conviction in its dream of rejuvenation.

All risks and challenges plaguing the CPC leadership, China's socialist system, as well as the country's sovereignty, security, development and people's fundamental interests, will be fought unswervingly until victory is secured.

China will put more effort into effectively implementing regular epidemic control measures and promoting high-quality development that is efficient, sustainable and secure. The country will march on the path of peaceful development and will resolutely safeguard its core interests.

The past seven decades have shown that a developing country can achieve modernization by exploring a path that suits its national condition rather than following the Western model. The success story will continue as China marches toward a modern socialist country that is prosperous, strong, democratic, culturally advanced, harmonious and beautiful. 
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Atal Tunnel in Rohtang --at a height of 10,000 feet, the worlds longest tunnel for traffic--in Himachal Pradesh on October 3 at 10 am, the Prime Ministers Office said on Thursday.

As per the reception plan, approved by the cabinet, PM Modi will be accorded a grand welcome upon his arrival at four points as per the traditions of the districts. The PM, who will return to New Delhi the same day, will be accompanied by Union defence minister Rajnath Singh and Union minister of state for finance Anurag Thakur.

PM Modi will address two public meetings in Himachal Pradesh after opening the strategic Atal Tunnel Rohtang, Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur said on September 28, asserting all Covid-19 protocols will be followed during the function, according to news agency PTI.

Named after former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the 9.2 km-long tunnel is the longest highway tunnel in the world, which connects Manali to Lahaul-Spiti valley throughout the year. Earlier, the valley was cut off for about 6 months each year owing to heavy snowfall.

The tunnel is built with ultra-modern specifications in the Pir Panjal range of Himalayas at an altitude of 3000 mtrs (10,000 Feet) from the Mean Sea Level (MSL). It reduces the road distance by 46 Kms between Manali and Leh and the time by about 4 to 5 hours.

Atal Tunnel has been designed for traffic density of 3,000 cars per day and 1,500 trucks per day with max speed of 80 km/hr. It has the state of the art electromechanical system including semi transverse ventilation system, SCADA controlled firefighting, illumination and monitoring system.
The insolvency law has led to a significant behavioural shift among borrowers as non-repayment of loan is no more an option and ownership of a firm is no more a divine right, Comptroller & Auditor General of India G C Murmu said on Thursday.

According to him, this behavioural shift has resulted in substantial recoveries for creditors outside the (IBC) and improved the performance of firms.

Delivering 'IBC: Adaptability is the key to Sustaining Reforms in the Times of a Pandemic' lecture on the occasion of the fourth annual day of the Insolvency & Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI), Murmu said one of the most remarkable achievements of the Code was that it has led to a significant behavioural change among the debtors and creditors alike.

"It is further motivating them to make the best efforts to avoid default. Further, it encourages the debtor to settle default with the creditors at the earliest, preferably outside the Code. With the Code in place, non-repayment of loan is no more an option and ownership of the firm is no more a divine right and equity is no more the only route to own a firm," he said.

Further, he noted that the Code has had an impact on the credit market as the provision of resolution and liquidation reduces the incidence of default and enables the creditors to recover their dues through revival of the firm or by the sale of liquidated assets.

It incentivises both secured and unsecured creditors, bank and non-bank, financial and operational, financial and domestic to extend credit at a lower cost of projects and thus enhances the availability of credit, he added.

"The Code is also helping in resolving the NPA (Non-Performing Assets) problem of the banking system," Murmu said.

The Code has also created a cohesive and comprehensive ecosystem. This has created markets for services of insolvency professionals, insolvency professional agencies, registered valuers, registered valuers organisations, insolvency professional entities and information utilities, he added.

Till June 2020, Murmu said that about 3,900 corporates, including some with very large NPAs, have been admitted into CIRP (Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process). About 1,205 CIRPs have completed the process, either yielding resolution plans or ending up with orders for liquidation.

As many as 380 processes have been closed on appeal/ review or settled while 218 processes have been withdrawn. Also, 692 firms have commenced voluntary liquidation, he noted.

"As the government prepares the insolvency landscape of the country for the post-COVID-19 phase in the longer term, one is hopeful that the measures taken in the short and medium-term will be successful in preserving the life of companies and livelihood of persons in distress.

"Rescuing lives of firms being the prime objective of the Code, it must not be used to take away their lives prematurely," Murmu said.

Going forward, he said that once the pandemic is behind us, a few issues that need to be handled through the Code would be making provisions for group insolvency and cross-border insolvency, and implementing various provisions related to individual insolvency.

Speaking on the occasion, Union minister Anurag Singh Thakur said the Code has undergone prompt course corrections to address deficiencies arising from its implementation and sync with emerging market realities to further its objectives.

The Code has been amended five times.

"We have seen a behavioural change, better recovery and better debtor-creditor relationship after IBC," Thakur, who is the Minister of State for Corporate Affairs as well as Finance, said.

Regarding suspension of fresh insolvency proceedings, the minister said it was done to prevent viable companies from being pushed into insolvency proceedings for their failure to service debt obligations on account of the pandemic-induced stress.

"The government realises that it may be difficult to find adequate number of resolution applicants to rescue a corporate debtor during this period of crisis... Extending the suspension of the Code by another three months. This will give companies breathing time to recover from the financial stress and also avoid job losses which would have happened otherwise," he said.

Provisions under the Code for initiating fresh insolvency proceedings were suspended for six months starting from March 25 and has been further extended by three months.

The minister also exuded confidence that the country will sustain growth and equitable development.

Further, Thakur noted that India has responded quickly and has implemented a judicious mix of fiscal and monetary policies to mitigate the negative impact of COVID-19 on the economy.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
SRINAGAR, India - At least three Indian soldiers were killed and five others wounded by Pakistani shelling along the highly militarized frontier dividing Kashmir between the two nuclear-armed rivals, the Indian army said Thursday.

Indian army spokesman Col. Rajesh Kalia said two soldiers died and four were wounded on Thursday when Pakistani soldiers fired mortar rounds and other weapons in the northwestern Nowgam sector along the Line of Control in Kupwara district.

Kalia called the incident an unprovoked violation of a 2003 cease-fire accord and said Indian troops gave a befitting response.

Separately, one soldier was killed and another wounded in Pakistani shelling and firing in southern Poonch district along the frontier on Wednesday night, said Lt. Col. Devender Anand, another Indian military spokesman.

Pakistan did not directly comment on the deaths. In the past, each side has accused the other of starting border skirmishes in the disputed Himalayan region, which both claim in its entirety.

However, Pakistan summoned an Indian diplomat on Thursday to register a protest over a cease-fire violation leading to serious injuries to a 65-year-old woman on Wednesday, the countrys foreign ministry said in a statement.

Earlier Thursday, Pakistan foreign ministry spokesman Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri accused New Delhi of escalating tension along the Line of Control to divert world attention from its human rights violations in Indian-occupied Kashmir.

Chaudhri said at a weekly media briefing that India has committed 2,404 cease-fire violations since January in which 19 people were killed and 192 others were wounded in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

On Tuesday, Pakistans military said Indian troops opened fire across the border in the region, killing a 15-year-old boy and a soldier and wounding four villagers.

The Indian government says Pakistan has committed more than 3,000 cease-fire violations so far this year.

The two neighbours have fought two wars over the territory, and India accuses Pakistan of arming and training insurgents fighting for Kashmirs independence from India or unification with Pakistan. Pakistan denies the charge and says it offers only diplomatic and moral support to the rebels.

Tensions soared in February 2019, when a suicide bombing killed 40 Indian paramilitary soldiers in the Indian-controlled part of Kashmir, and India retaliated with airstrikes inside Pakistani territory. Pakistan shot down one of the warplanes in Kashmir and captured a pilot who was quickly released. India said the strikes targeted Pakistan-based militants responsible for the suicide bombing.

Relations have been further strained since August last year, when India revoked the Muslim-majority regions decades-old semi-autonomous status and divided the region in two federally governed territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, touching off anger on both sides of the frontier.

Since then, rival troops have traded fire almost daily along the rugged and mountainous frontier, leaving dozens of civilians and soldiers dead on both sides.

The violence comes amid heightened tensions between India and China along their disputed border in Ladakh region, where the two Asia giants are locked in a monthslong bitter standoff. The high-altitude desert region borders China on one side and Pakistan on the other, and is the worlds only junction of three nuclear-armed nations.

In recent months, the two countries have amassed tens of thousands of additional troops in the already militarized region. In June, 20 Indian soldiers were killed in a clash on a high ridge between soldiers using clubs, stones and their fists.

___

Associated Press writer Munir Ahmed in Islamabad, Pakistan, contributed to this report.

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Independence Day! Its Birthday Time as Nigeria turns 60.

The President will light the candles on the nations cake and cut it (- probably imported from Harrods in London) and there will be a big bash at Aso Rock with past presidents, important dignitaries and foreign ambassadors invited. They will drink, make merry and pose for countless photo sessions.

But is there really anything to celebrate?

No!

The country is in a worse state than it was 60 years ago when the Union Jack came down and Nigerias green and white flag went up: a Man doesnt know where his next loaf of bread is going to come from or whether hell even live to see the next day; mass unemployment has created a generation of people wholl never work for a living; the crime wave is spiralling out of control as is poverty and incessant killings; corruption has taken a front seat and with the current Covid-19 Pandemic nobody can see the fabled light at the end of the tunnel!.

If Nigeria were to be a person it would have nearly lived a full life by now having gone through childhood, puberty, adulthood, middle age and about to enter the blissful age of retirement. That is to say Nigeria should have got over its teething problems by puberty, settled into a staedy growth rhythm by adulthood and now at retirement should be a nation everybody should be happy to live in.

But alas, Bad Boy Nigeria (- and its inhabitants) has refused to grow up and revels in its alter-ego of a Man-Child still acting irresponsibly with no clear sense of direction. Haba! Na only you waka come?

In an attempt to govern ourselves weve tried every form of governance known to Man  without success- from military dictatorships to the US- Presidential Style we currently practice. We havent tried Socialism or Communism yet because its not in our DNA to call one another comrade, dress and eat like peasants and live in unpalatable hovels. It wont work unless we adopt the Animal Farm maxim of  All Animals are Equal but Some are More equal Than Others!.

Nigeria is probably the only nation in the World that doesnt have a national airline: Ethiopia we belittle has the best airline in Africa, flying modern aeroplanes that dont fall out of the sky! What does it take to buy of lease a few planes, slap the national emblem on it and run an airline? In Nigeria thats a Mission Impossible and recent attempts to revive the national airline have flat lined. Thats probably because theyre still bickering about whos going to run it: is it going to be Mallam Muslim from the North or Christian Chief from the South? Or how much money they can chop from the venture even before it takes off.

We have the largest deposits of crude oil in Africa yet our ancient and crumbling refineries ( - are any of them still working?) cant pump out cheap petrol and kerosene for the populace to consume: to make matters worse fuel subsidies have been removed and a litre of petrol now costs a fortune. We have to import refined petroleum products  even from countries like Niger who only started commercial oil production in 2011.

Boko Haram and other insurgents are still busy terrorising the land killing and kidnapping hundreds of people at random and sacking villages while the Nigerian Army is powerless to bring their reign of terror to an end. Is it because they are cowering in their barracks or they have no guns to fight?

Still after sixty years building and maintaining simple basic structures such as roads and bridges is alien to our culture. We build them (-if we do!) and forget about them or Who build that garda?, as a past military leader once asked. It is the year 2020 and driving from Lagos to Abuja is like a daytrip to Hell! If the pot-holed roads or non-existent roads, rickety bridges and other reckless motorists dont kill you, you are bound to meet your Waterloo at the hands of marauding robbers, kidnappers  or the police! (SARS are the guilty ones here!).

The minority ruling elite are well-heeled (- and corrupt!); well educated (- well most of them!) ; live in palatable mansions; drive the latest cars (- and may have a private plane or two!); send their kids abroad to proper schools; order cooked pizza from London while the rest of the country wallows in poverty and uncertainty. Let them eat cake, they tell the rest of the country  and mean it!

With nothing else to do many are jumping on planes to go abroad  many vowing never to come back home again. Abroad the pastures are greener, the opportunities are unlimited, proper healthcare, police you dont have to bribe and the chance to live at least a decent life  something you cant do in Naija (- unless you are connected) A nation is losing its top brains to institutions and organisations abroad and the government is doing nothing to stem the flow: there are no incentives to stay other than youll earn less than what a cleaner or nurse earns in the U.K (- thats if you get paid at all!) and youre not killed by ritualists or cultists or kidnapped by herdsmen! And those who dont jump ship have to face the humiliating task of finding any kind of job. How many Ph.D. holders work for Dangote driving trucks?

Faced with hopelessness many are forgetting that Get Rich quick or die trying is meant to be lyrics in a rap song and not a mantra a great many Nigerians live and swear by: so kidnapping, armed robbery, embezzlement or sacrificing your granny or brother for a money ritual are not honest ways to make a fast buck.

So after 60 years of independence Nigeria has managed to wangle its way into the infamous club of failed nations, hardly something worth celebrating: itll be like a younger me coming home from school with Fail on my report card and thinking my parents will throw a party to celebrate.

Grow up [email protected]!

Im on Twitter: @Archangel641 or visit http://www.archangel641.blogspot.co.uk
The Kerala High Court on Thursday rejected a petition of rape accused former bishop of Jalandhar Franco Mulakkal to adjourn the trial against him citing a big spurt in coronavirus cases in Kerala.

In his plea, he said in view of the Covid-19 pandemic situation his lawyers are finding it difficult to appear before the trial court in Kottayam and hearing can be resumed after two months once the situation normalises.

But his plea was opposed by the prosecution saying it was part of his plan to delay the trial. It said when witnesses are facing intense animosity and danger, it will be inappropriate to adjourn the case at this juncture. The prosecution also cited his multiple attempts earlier to delay the trial. The court agreed to the contention of the prosecution and rejected Mulakkals plea.

Following the rejection of the plea, the trial will continue in the chief judicial magistrate court in Kottayam. The court has posted the next hearing on October 5. Since proceedings are in-camera press has not been allowed to cover the trial.

Mulakkal, former head of the Jalandhar Diocese was accused of raping a 44-year-old nun of the Missionaries of Jesus congregation between 2014 and 2016. He was arrested in September 2018, but later released on bail.

The rape survivor and fellow nuns who supported her are leading a secluded life in a convent in Kottayam. There were many attempts to evict them but the High Court had intervened and directed police to give protection to them.
The Uttar Pradesh Police on Thursday lodged an FIR against Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi and 153 Congress workers for violating the Epidemic Diseases Act for their attempted march to Hathras to meet the family of a gang-rape victim who died earlier this week. The complaint, filed at the Gautam Buddh Nagar police station, also names 50 unknown people for not maintaining social distancing and not wearing face masks.

The FIR was lodged under Indian Penal Code (IPC) Sections 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant), 269 (unlawfully or negligently spreading infection of any disease dangerous to life), 270 (malignant act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life) and under section 3 of the Epidemic Diseases Act, said the police. A few party members have also been booked for indulging in a scuffle during which some women constables were hurt while the uniform of a lady sub-inspector got torn, the Gautam Buddh Nagar police said in a statement.

The Congress earlier in the day staged a dramatic protest, leading to the detention of the Gandhi siblings by UP police. The two leaders were detained in Greater Noida, just outside Delhi when they insisted on marching to Hathras.

The Gandhis and about 150 party workers, held briefly for violating prohibitory orders, were let off after they furnished personal bonds, said the UP Police. The melee on the Yamuna Expressway, during which the former Congress president fell to the ground, was the biggest among scattered protests during the day over the death of the woman who the UP police controversially suggested was not a victim of rape.

According to the police, the Gandhis were repeatedly informed about Section 144 of CrPc in place and a letter from the Hathras District Magistrate, asking no political party to reach the district as it might affect law and order, was also read out to them. Despite all this, the leaders decided to go ahead with their march, said the police.

Another FIR has been lodged against UP Congress leader Ajay Singh Lallu and 50 other workers for damaging a police vehicle, creating a ruckus, not allowing the police to do its work as well as misbehaving with female police personnel.
With so much discussion around the world about statues, it was only a matter of time before one particular statue in Dublin came up for debate. The statue is that of Sean Russell, a former IRA chief of staff and a Nazi collaborator.

In June this year, Dublin Fine Gael councillor Ray McAdam submitted a request to Dublin City Council for the removal of the Russell statue, which is owned by the National Graves Association, but situated in a public park owned by Dublin City Council.

Later, his party leader, Leo Varadkar, commented: We have a few of our own statues we may need to take down.

There is a statue in Fairview Park in Dublin of an Irish republican man who was also a Nazi collaborator.

The original statue of Sean Russell was unveiled in Fairview Park in Dublin in September 1951, with an IRA colour party organised by Cathal Goulding, three volleys of shots by IRA gunmen and a prominent role for Irish-American supporters.

Ever since, it has been a subject of controversy and has been defaced, daubed with swastikas and vandalised many times.

As a result, the original statue had to be replaced with a sturdier version.

While many Ulstermen and Irishmen, Protestant and Catholic, were fighting the Nazi war machine, the IRA leader spent the summer of 1940 in a large villa near Berlin.

He was a guest of the SS and he enjoyed all the privileges of a diplomat, courtesy of Adolf Hitler.

Russell was there to develop the relationship between the IRA and the Nazis and his proposals were incorporated into Operation Sealion, Hitlers plan for the invasion of Britain.

Russell then boarded a German U-boat to return home to Ireland, but died on board the vessel

The IRA leader was then buried at sea, with full German naval honours, wrapped in a swastika flag.

Sinn Fein is clearly troubled by the situation. They want to portray themselves as a party of the Left, modern, progressive and ready for government. But that doesnt sit well with defending a Nazi collaborator.

So, how will Mary Lou McDonald and her friends deal with this?

The first clue came in an article by councillor Micheal Mac Donncha, a former Sinn Fein Lord Mayor of Dublin, in the online Sinn Fein newspaper An Phoblacht.

It marked the 80th anniversary of the death of the IRA leader and the article was entitled Sean Russell and the IRA of the 1940s.

It is typical of the republican hagiographies that appear in An Phoblacht and councillor Mac Donncha is profuse in his praise of Sean Russell, highlighting his courage and dedication to the IRA.

Meanwhile, he tries to argue that Russell did not see himself as a collaborator and downplays the IRA-Nazi collaboration by describing Russell as naive and isolated.

Its an argument that doesnt stand up to scrutiny, because the IRA collaboration with the Nazis continued after the death of Russell and, on November 21, 1940, the main IRA publication, War News, published a short piece of eulogistic doggerel that began, Heres to Adolf Hitler.

The truth is that, while Russell may have said he wasnt a Nazi, Mac Donncha cannot produce any evidence of him saying he wasnt a Nazi collaborator.

He didnt have to be a Nazi to be a Nazi collaborator, although some republicans did share the views of the Nazis.

Now Mary Lou McDonald will be considering all this with the benefit of past experience.

In 2003, when she was standing as candidate for the European Parliament, she participated in a republican commemoration ceremony at the Russell statue, alongside IRA leader Brian Keenan.

It led to criticism and controversy then, but, of course, at that time, Sinn Fein wasnt presenting itself as a party that is ready for government.

Nowadays, that is how it wants to be seen and anything that draws attention to republican collaboration with the Nazis will be unwelcome.

Questions were asked about the statue in 2017, but this time the issue seems to be getting more traction and the An Phoblacht article is evidence of that.
With an increase of 86,821 new cases and 1,181 deaths reported in the last 24 hours, Indias COVID-19 count crossed the 63-lakh mark on Thursday, according to the Union Health Ministry.As per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), the count stands at 63,12,585 in the country including 9,40,705 active cases, and 52,73,202 cured and discharged or migrated patients. With 1,181 deaths reported, the toll due to the disease has now reached 98,678 in the country.Maharashtra continues to be the worst affected by the pandemic with 2,59,462 active cases, 10,88,322 cured and discharged cases and 36,662 deaths.

Karnataka with 1,07,635 active cases is the next on the list. While 4,85,268 patients have been cured in the State, the disease has claimed 8,864 lives so far.Kerala with 67,140 active cases is also severely affected, however, 1,28,224 patients have been cured in the State, while 742 deaths have occurred due to it.Meanwhile, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 7,56,19,781 samples have been tested up to September 30 for COVID-19 in the country. Out of these 14,23,052 samples were tested yesterday.

According to the Health Ministry data, Indias average Covid testing has been increased to conduct more than 15 lakh tests per day, and has exceeded the 140/day/million tests as advised by the World Health Organisation by more than 5 times.A total of 14 lakh tests were done in the last 24 hours and 7.6 crore tests have been done in India till now.High levels of testing lead to early identification, prompt isolation and effective treatment of COVID-19. This has resulted in sustained low fatality rate, the Health Ministry tweeted.

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On Thursday, October 1, Standardbred Owners Association of New York President Joe Faraldo issued a press release stating that the SOA of NY is seeking the return of on-track wagering and purses at Yonkers Raceway.

The contents of the release appear below.

SOA Seeks Return of On-Track Wagering and Purses

The SOA of NY has made every effort to insure a continuity of personal aid and racing from the time of the shutdown of racing at Yonkers, through the resumption of racing in June and after the recent grant of authority to open the racino. The cost to the SOA of NY to for aid and for supplementation of the purses account to keep racing going while the racino was closed was in the neighbourhood of $1.4 million.

With the advent of the reopening of the racino at Yonkers, on site play on the VLT machines has resumed. That raises the question as to why, if the casino can operate at 25% capacity, with attendees, does not the onsite simulcasting and on track wagering by fans get the same consideration?

The SOA of NY is petitioning for such approval of simulcasting and on track wagering from leading racing legislators and from the executive branch of state government. We are hereby requesting that MGM Resorts-Yonkers join in that request and that it bring back many of the key personnel necessary to secure the return of onsite wagering. Of course, much of the wagering is on self-serve betting machines, not very dissimilar from the VLTs. MGM Resorts does an admirable job with its racino protocols, and there seems to be no reason why those efforts cannot be duplicated consistent with MGMs responsibilities as a NYS licensee, holding a racing and simulcasting license along with its racino license.

The additional revenue from on-track wagering certainly would not hurt the purse account or the NYS Agriculture and Horse Breeding Development Fund (NYSS) which has been negatively impacted by the pandemic as has all of racing and agriculture in NYS. We have endured quite a hit that can negatively impact our industry and its economic multiplier effect to NYS.

Racing, as you know, has struggled with no racing, lower revenues that fuel the agricultural industry in NYS, less racing opportunities and no finally fans on site. The SOA Board of Directors continues to strive towards a return to normalcy. Our cooperative efforts with MGM Resorts has now seen the return of live racing next week on a five-day per-week schedule with still reduced purses and nine races per card. It is anticipated that we will see that number of races per day slowly increase and the purses themselves begin to slowly crawl their way higher in the near future. Those achievements will only be possible through a careful analysis of the economic trends that we hope -- and are optimistic -- will continue on the rise

I and the SOA of NY Board of Directors wish to thank our member for the confidence shown in our judgments so far, as well as your support and cooperation in those efforts.
Chris Wallace; Donald Trump

Chris Wallace and Donald Trump Noam Galai/WireImage/Joe Raedle/Getty Images

Fox News host Chris Wallace on Thursday blamed President Donald Trump for what he admitted was an "awful" debate.

In his first TV appearance following Tuesday night's debate, Wallace noted that Trump had interrupted either Democrat Joe Biden or himself 145 times.

"He bears the primary responsibility for what happened on Tuesday," Wallace said. "At a certain point, 45 minutes in, I called a halt to the debate for a moment and said this really isn't serving America and please stop the interruptions."

Wallace complained that his team had spent "hundreds" of hours preparing for the debate only to have it spoiled by the president.

"I was really hoping for the debate that America wanted to see, which was a serious exchange of views," he recalled. "I felt like I had gotten together all of the ingredients. I had baked this beautiful, delicious cake, and then, frankly, the president put his foot in it."

"I guess I thought originally that the president was going to engage in a debate with Biden and let Biden answer," Wallace added. "That was a misapprehension. Then I thought maybe the president is going to do this in the first segment  try to rattle Biden. When that didn't work, I think he would have been well advised to pull back and let Biden talk more."

"And then 45 minutes in, I realized what a total mess and disservice this was," the Fox News host said. "Do I wish I had stepped in earlier? Yes. But, as I say, hindsight is 20-20."

You can watch the video below via YouTube:

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Nand Kishor Gurjar, a lawmaker of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday asked governor Anandiben Patel to act against officials, who he said, had denied the family of the Hathras gang-rape victim the right to perform her last rites.

Gurjar, who represents Loni assembly constituency of Ghaziabad near national capital Delhi, said the police had hastily performed the last rites of the 19-year-old woman in violation of religious beliefs of Hindus not to cremate the dead after sunset.

The family of the 19-year-old Dalit victim had alleged that they had been forced by UP police to perform her last rites in the stealth of the night. The police said they had the consent of the kin. Opposition parties have slammed the Yogi Adityanath government over the hurried cremation, arguing that it was meant to suppress protests.

Also Read: Rahul Gandhi detained on way to Hathras, UP police take him back to Delhi

Gurjar claimed that a political syndicate was at work along with officials to paint the BJP as anti-dalit and the administrations decision to cremate the woman past midnight was part of this conspiracy.

The entire thing appears to be the handiwork of top officials from Lucknow to Hathras to malign the image of the government. It just cannot happen that such acts that are against the spirit of sanatana dharma - of not cremating the dead at night and denying family the right to even lend a shoulder to their daughters bier  would be allowed without the consent of senior officials like UP DGP and others, the lawmaker said in a letter to the governor.

Also Read: Govt may declare Hathras village a Covid containment zone, says DM

The unfortunate incident in Balrampur too appears to be the handiwork of this syndicate about whom I had briefed the chief minister in the past, he said demanding that officials be tried for murder and the cases against them be tried in a fast track court.
Expansion of the dairy herd has led to an increase in agricultural emissions

The national herd must be cut, further emission-reducing measures introduced and farmers mentored, if the country is to meet reach its climate targets.

Thats according to the Climate Change Advisory Council annual review, which reported that while national emissions reduced by 0.1pc from 2017 to 2018, this was largely due to progress in the electricity sector, and Ireland will not meet its 2020 climate targets, as other sectors have not delivered emissions reductions on the scale required, including agriculture.

The report also says policy needs to ensure that cattle numbers are consistent with both market realities and environmental and biophysical constraints, which it says is not the case at the moment.

Some sectors, such as agriculture, present little or no correlation with economic growth, it says.

There is incontrovertible evidence that the current level of livestock output (milk and meat) exceeds the sustainable level of output given current technologies.

Agriculture accounted for 33.9pc of the total greenhouse gas emissions in 2018 and key drivers from 2017 to 2018, the report states, are due to increased dairy production in the sector.

The observed trend in the expansion of the national dairy herd has been the major contributor to increases in agricultural emissions in recent years.

The one dominating challenge in addressing greenhouse gas emissions is from ruminant farming, it says and its a problem that will increase beyond 2030.

Enteric methane accounts for 56pc of emissions, and there is no system or technology at present available to reduce such emissions at scale at acceptable cost. If this situation prevails, the only way to reduce emissions at scale is to reduce levels of production.

The report also states that improvements in production efficiency will not be enough to meet mitigation targets and that in the light of significant risk of under-achievement of the ambitious deployment rates of measures in the Climate Action Plan, there is a need to consider the implementation of additional measures as a contingency.

These measures There are specific challenges in implementation of mitigation measures across the sector, for example the uptake of alternative fertilisers, as well as the estimation and reporting of carbon emissions and removals associated with land management.

Irish farmers though it says have little if any experience of implementing actions that directly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and will need a lot of support, mentoring and information particularly the findings of research to enable rapid deployment of measures as they transition their farms to a lower emissions status.

The report says CAP funding could be used to increase knowledge transfer activities, advisory services and support for farmer-driven partnerships dedicated to reducing net emissions.

Action

It says that the delay in the introduction of a new CAP is an opportunity for the EUs farm to Fork and Biodiversity Strategies to be reflected in Irelands CAP strategic plan.

Teagasc figures, it says, show that a high proportion of beef farmers fail to generate a positive net margin, even taking account of very significant transfers from the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and national payments and the high border protection for EU beef production, as well as the availability of coupled payments.

The low income on many beef farms is a long-standing issue and the recent period of low prices has exacerbated this. There is a legitimate need for support for farmers with low incomes. A more effective use of taxpayers money would be to couple this support to the provision of environmental outcomes, including emissions reductions and removals, rather than to animal numbers.

Its economic sustainability is beyond doubt, but its current environmental footprint is not sustainable.

Council member Professor Frank Convery said there is great potential under the new CAP to reconfigure payments in a way that would support farm incomes better and incentivise farmers to reduce emissions.

He said there is an opportunity for a greater focus on environmental outcomes and to reduce stock numbers.

Changes in land use, he said, is the other way to reduce emissions, including increasing forestry levels, which can also add to farm profitability.

The key, he said is to pay farmers for delivering public goods.

Forestry

The report also warns that low afforestation rates are undermining sectoral mitigation targets, while the management of national grasslands and peatlands continues to be a significant source of emissions.

It also states that opportunities exist for many co-benefits from rewetting bogs and afforestation if effectively implemented, including eco-tourism, biodiversity, water quality and local amenity value.

The Councils report also states that the rate of afforestation in 2018 fell to 4,025ha from a high of nearly 23,000ha in 1996, with provisional figures for 2019 falling further to 3,550ha.

At these rates, Ireland will not attain the national forest policy goals for 18pc forest cover by mid-century.

It also says that forestry has the potential to transform from being a sink to a source by 2030.

The Council recommends that CAP income support payments should better support and encourage farmers to reduce emissions, including through reducing animal numbers and/or using their land more profitably, while providing additional positive environmental outcomes.

Specific policy innovation to encourage and enable higher rates of afforestation and improved management of high carbon soils, including peatlands are required.
A second woman has been gang-raped and killed in India just days after a teenager's brutal murder shocked the country.

The woman - a member of India's 'untouchable' Dalit community - was allegedly raped by two men on Tuesday and died while being taken to hospital.

The 22-year-old's death in Balrampur district comes days after the gang-rape and death of a teenager from the same low-caste group at the hands of a group of high-caste men sparked outrage.

Two men have been arrested on charges of gang-rape and murder in relation to the latest attack.

A second woman has been gang-raped and killed in a week in Utter Pradesh, India, just days after a teenager's brutal murder shocked the country. Pictured: India's opposition Congress party supporters protest against the first killing in New Delhi

The member of India's 'untouchable' Dalit community, 22, was allegedly raped by two men on Tuesday and died today while being taken to hospital. Pictured: A man holds a placard during a protest in Mumbai yesterday after the death of the first rape victim from the same cast

An investigation was under way and the suspects may be tried in a special fast-track court, they added.

Her mother said: 'A rickshaw-wallah [driver] brought her home. [She] was thrown in front of our house.

'My child could barely stand or speak,' reported NDTV.

She told the BBC: 'They broke my daughter's leg, they broke her waist. When she arrived, she looked very weak.

'Our daughter couldn't speak or get up. When we asked her what had happened, she couldn't answer.'

Uttar Pradesh police guard the family house of a 19-year-old woman, who died after being allegedly gang-raped by four men

Police have arrested four men in connection with the crime who will now be charged with murder

The incident took place in Balrampur district in Uttar Pradesh state, around 300 miles (500 kilometres) from where the other Dalit girl was allegedly gang-raped in mid-September by four upper-caste men.

The 19-year-old, who was left paralysed by her injuries, was rushed to hospital in New Delhi 200 kilometres away but died on Tuesday.

Police have arrested four men in connection with the crime.

Girl, 14, killed with bricks and stones in Uttar Pradesh after suspected rape A 14-year-old girl was found murdered with her head bashed in after a suspected raping in Uttar Pradesh, days after India reeled from the rape and murder of a 19-year-old in the same state. The girl, who was a member of the Scheduled Castes, died in Bhadohi in eastern Uttar Pradesh. She did not return home after going to the fields to relieve herself, police said. Her brother found the body when he went to look for her. Police suspect she was raped. Ram Badan Singh, an officer of the local police told NDTV: 'This would become clear when the postmortem report is in.' It is not yet known who the attackers are but police say they are pursuing all leads. Advertisement

Clashes between protesters and police erupted in Hathras district on Wednesday after police cremated the woman's body.

The victim's brother said the cremation was carried out against the wishes of her family, who had wanted to perform their own funeral rites. Local officials deny this.

Twenty-five people were arrested in connection with the unrest, according to a police information report.

An eye-witness said police had wielded batons during the clashes.

This latest case has caused widespread outrage and protests across India due to the backgrounds of those involved.

The four men arrested were all from a higher caste, her brother said.

The victim and her brother are not being identified due to laws against naming victims of sexual violence.

Orders preventing the gathering of more than five people have been imposed in Hathras, Vikrant Vir, the top police official in the district, said on Thursday.

Indian Parliament member Rahul Gandhi was detained by the state police on his way to Hathras to meet the family today.

Rahul Gandhi said he was pushed to the ground and baton charged charged when he and Priyanka Gandhi marched on the highway after their convoy was stopped by Uttar Pradesh policemen.

They were later released and taken back to Delhi.

Uttar Pradesh, which is ruled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party, ranks as one of the most unsafe states for women in the country.

Under the emergency laws, police will stop members of political organisations from entering Hathras, Vir said.

The latest assaults come months after four men were hanged for the 2012 gang rape and murder of a student on a bus in Delhi, a case that came to symbolise the nation's problems with sexual violence.

Demonstrators shout slogans during a protest after the death of a rape victim inside the premises of Safdarjung Hospital in New Delhi, India, on Tuesday

India is the one of the world's most dangerous countries for women, with a rape occurring every 15 minutes, according to federal data - figures that rights groups say vastly underestimate the scale of the problem.

India's 200 million Dalits have long faced discrimination and abuse, and campaigners say attacks have increased during the coronavirus pandemic.

An average of 87 rape cases were reported every day last year, according to the latest data released Tuesday by the National Crime Records Bureau, but large numbers are thought to go unreported.

The bureau reported an increase of more than seven percent in the number of crimes against women in 2019 compared to the previous year.
JERSEY CITY, N.J., RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. and HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Enterprise Channel Management leader Zift Solutions has formed a strategic alliance with Vistex , the global leader in software solutions for managing rebates, marketing funds, pricing, and other incentives solutions, to help Zift customers better manage promotions, incentives, and discounts.

With too many channel programs overloaded and partners resource-strapped, many Suppliers find that their well-intended incentive initiatives falter due to lack of automation, low adoption by partners and poor utilization and/or use of designated funds. By combining the partner engagement tools in ZiftONE with Vistex's incentive management solutions, companies can now administer and better manage fiscal programs to improve both business process and outcomes through the channel.

"We are excited to form this partnership with Vistex," said Gordon Rapkin, CEO of Zift Solutions. "Uniting ZiftONE and Vistex's incentive management solutions enables us to offer a seamless experience for channel partners to easily leverage Market Development Funds for building awareness and generating a high-value pipeline."

Vistex's solutions enable the effective management of marketing spend and incentives including planning, approval tracking, auditing, accruals, payments and analysis. The ZiftONE platform promotes the available sales and marketing programs in a supplier branded marketplace where partners may spend their MDF.

"Zift will be an important partner for Vistex because our solutions complement each other. Together, vendors now have an end-to-end solution for optimizing both financial management and marketing execution," said Sanjay Shah, Founder & CEO of Vistex. "Some of the industry's most notable channel programs are already using our joint solution and seeing the benefits of providing an integrated solution that is driving better adoption and an easy to use experience for their partners."

How the Joint Solution Helps Customers

Joe Gabriel, Senior Director of Global Partner Marketing for Qlik, is one of many customers that is already realizing the advantages of working with both Vistex and Zift. Through the Qlik Partner Program, qualified partners can spend approved MDF funds directly from their "electronic wallet", minimizing the number of steps for planning and executing joint marketing activities. "Improving the ease of doing business with Qlik is always a top priority for us, and the integration both solutions has made it simpler for partners to engage with Qlik while ensuring these funds are utilized efficiently," said Gabriel.

Working with Zift and Vistex, leading and emerging channel organizations can create MDF programs to influence partner behavior and drive productivity. The integrated solutions reduce complexity and engage partners in supplier-designed MDF programs where they can earn points or accumulate funds as they engage in planning activities, take training or launch their campaigns.

To learn more about Zift's Strategic Alliance Partnership program, its partners, or to join the Zift Zone, visit Strategic Alliance Partners .

About Zift Solutions

Zift Solutions is the Enterprise Channel Management leader, delivering the people, processes and technology organizations required to drive channel success. Zift boosts channel partner program productivity, and profitability by automating and aligning marketing, sales, and operational processes. The ZiftONE platform integrates seamlessly with established systems and infrastructure to speed time-to-sales, create an exceptional partner experience, and provide faster ROI. To learn more, visit www.ziftsolutions.com , follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn , and join the conversation via Channel Chatter .

About Vistex

Vistex solutions help businesses take control of their mission-critical processes. With a multitude of financial programs covering rebates, marketing funds, pricing, promotions, and other incentives, it can be complicated to see where all the money is flowing, let alone how much difference it makes to the topline and the bottom line. With Vistex, business stakeholders can see the numbers, see what really works, and see what to do next  so they can make sure every dollar spent or earned is really driving growth, and not just additional costs. The world's leading enterprises across a spectrum of industries rely on Vistex every day to propel their businesses. For more information, visit http://www.vistex.com .

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There is a good chance Oregon lawmakers will redraw the states legislative and congressional district lines next year, after an initiative that would have asked voters to hand the job of redistricting to an independent commission failed to make it onto the November ballot.

Still, lawmakers have a spotty track record of getting the job done: In the last century the Legislature just once completed the work, according to a City Club of Portland report.
Ever since my colleague, Damon Linker, wrote his column about the possibility of a "2000 election on steroids," I've been brooding about that scenario. While a clear victory by either Biden or Trump could still be followed by claims of widespread fraud or voter suppression, if the waters are sufficiently muddied before the count is complete such that no one can really say with confidence who won, the prospect of radical destabilization, and even the collapse of our system of government, becomes far more imaginable.

That's not what happened in 2000, of course. Instead, the Supreme Court stepped in to halt the increasingly fraught and acrimonious recount process, effectively awarding the presidency to George W. Bush. After the decision, Gore promptly conceded, and the election was over.

In 2000, the Court's decision probably didn't change the result. A complete recount of the ballots in question would likely still have resulted in a Bush victory, and if Florida had proved unable to resolve its slate of electors in time for the Electoral College to meet, then a deadlock would have thrown the election to the House of Representatives, which would have also awarded Bush the presidency. But while accepted as a practical matter, it was deeply resented by Democrats nonetheless, and it discredited the Court in the eyes of many observers as tainted by political partisanship.

Could it happen again? In a close enough election, it certainly could. There's already a lawsuit pending in which Pennsylvania Republicans are asking the Court to overrule Pennsylvania's State Supreme Court ruling that ballots received after Election Day should be counted if postmarked before Election Day, or if they lack a postmark but the "preponderance of evidence" suggests they were mailed in time. There could easily be other disputes that emerge if states like North Carolina, Florida, Wisconsin, or Arizona prove close and potentially decisive.

Story continues

What would the Court do if faced with such an awesome responsibility for a second time? We shouldn't presume we know.

On the one hand, the Roberts Court has hardly been a champion of voting rights, and has been deferential to the power of state legislatures, most notably in Shelby v. Holder which struck down a key part of the Voting Rights Act and in Rucho v. Common Cause, which upheld partisan gerrymandering. So a story in which the Court acts to uphold the letter of the law in cases where its spirit is plainly being violated  and where millions of voters are potentially disenfranchised  isn't hard to spin.

On the other hand, this Court has also been extremely cautious about not jeopardizing its own legitimacy by intruding overmuch in the political sphere. Indeed, the gerrymandering case can be defended on precisely those terms, and while striking down the Voting Rights Act provisions was an act in blatant disregard of the power and intent of Congress, it substantively removed judges from involvement in supervising elections, and was arguably therefore a retreat from judicial involvement in elections. Most recently, the Court's stay cutting off extended absentee voting in the Wisconsin primary was strikingly defensive in tone, taking unusual pains to argue that it was not establishing a wider precedent but only acting to prevent sudden, last-minute changes to an election already underway ordered by a lower court in defiance of the legislature's own decisions. Considering the powerful arguments that Bush v. Gore was itself not truly justiciable  arguments very similar to positions that the Roberts Court has taken in other contexts  it's entirely possible to imagine the Court punting altogether rather than grasping the nettle.

This, however, would simply kick the chaos back down to the various states, where state legislatures, governors and state supreme courts might wind up going to war with each other in ways that have a consistently partisan tinge. Chaos would only serve the interest of those eager to discredit the election, and could ultimately toss the result to the House of Representatives where the GOP, even though in the minority, still controls the majority of state delegations, each of which would get a single vote in breaking an Electoral College deadlock. Ironically, this time it might be liberals and Democrats who want the Supreme Court to weigh in, particularly if similar conflicts over counting absentee ballots crop up in multiple states. If faced with the question, the Supreme Court might still conceivably be the only body able to lay down a set of principles that both sides could agree is not transparently one-sided or arbitrary.

So it's worth asking what those principles might be  and the Democrats have an opportunity to do just that in the hearings for Amy Coney Barrett's confirmation. Right now, many Democratic leaders are planning to boycott the hearings on the grounds that they legitimize an outrageous abuse of power by the Senate Republicans. But if an abuse of power occurred, it was in 2016 when Merrick Garland was denied a hearing under similar circumstances, and if the Democrats want to make a political case of it  and they absolutely should  that case needs to be made in Senate races across the country, not in the hearing room. While it's undoubtedly a waste of time to grill Barrett about abortion  and it would be atrocious if they engaged in character assassination or countenanced religious bigotry  there are actually other topics worth grilling Barrett about, and none more pressing than the role of the Court in an election dispute.

Does Barrett think Bush v. Gore was decided correctly, or should have been heard at all? I'd very much like to know. Does she think judges have a role to play in making sure that an election is fair, or is their job to construe the letter of the law as narrowly as possible regardless of circumstances? While a narrow construction may seem conservative and restrained on the Court's part, if it results in the invalidation of many votes that there is no credible reason to believe are fraudulent, it could deal a material blow to the legitimacy of the outcome, precisely the result that restraint would ostensibly be intended to prevent.

That is the largest question looming in the background: What does Barrett see as the basis for political legitimacy in our system of government? Why should anyone listen to the Court when it speaks, or respect the legislature when it passes laws? The constitution guarantees to each state a republican form of government, meaning that power vested in all branches, legislative, executive and judicial, is ultimately derived from the people. Congress has the power to enforce that requirement through legislation like the Voting Rights Act provisions that Justice Roberts disparaged. If the proper role of the courts is to defer to the political branches when they are exercising powers granted to them by the constitution, and not to second-guess them based on their own personal values or what they think the people believe, what is the proper role of the courts in ensuring that the political branches are themselves deriving their authority from the people, without whose support, in our system, they have no legitimate authority at all?

The most troubling aspect of Bush v. Gore was that it stopped a recount, proclaiming that there was no way to complete it in a manner both fair and timely. In a close election, that's essentially to say there is no way for the political system to derive its legitimacy from the people. I don't think it's too much to expect a potential Supreme Court Justice to be asked to reject such a view, and to affirm the opposite: that precisely because we have a republican form of government, the state has a compelling interest in allowing those eligible to vote to do so, and even more so to knowing to the best of its ability how the people actually voted.

The Democrats may not get any such affirmation; they may not get clear answers of any kind. But through such questions, they can at least put the nominee and the Court on notice for how high they understand the stakes to have risen, and how important the perception of legitimacy is to the survival of our system of government. They could also give notice for how they would respond to a Court that does not treat the right to vote, and the right to have one's vote counted, as being the fundamental foundation of not only the elected branches' legitimacy, but the courts' as well.

More stories from theweek.com

For the first time, Trump faces the consequences of his actions

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Trump is reportedly experiencing 'cold-like symptoms' and has appeared 'lethargic'


B-Freed Photography Matt Zachary

Matthew Zachary knows just how stressful a cancer diagnosis can be  and for the past 13 years, hes built a career out of it as host of The Stupid Cancer Show.

The self-described Howard Stern of radio for cancer, Zachary has embraced being the face of patient advocacy since launching his company in 2007, 12 years after his brain cancer diagnosis gave him just six months to live at age 21.

When youre treated with cancer and youre not 80 and youre not 8, theres varying degrees of Oh sery that are different than you being a mom to an 8-year-old or worrying about your retirement in Florida, he tells PEOPLE ahead of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which begins Thursday. [Stupid Cancer] was the community I wish that Id had and didnt know I needed, didnt know could exist.

After a successful decade and a half at the helm, though, Zachary, 47, is moving on  not away from patient advocacy, but even deeper into it, with an unfiltered audio media company called OffScrip Media.

You know how Crooked is like, a no [bulls] show about politics? This is a no bulls company about consumer advocacy when s happens, he explains.

B-Freed Photography

OffScrip is launching with a pair of podcasts hosted by the Brooklyn-based Zachary: NORDPod, a partnership with the National Organization for Rare Disorders, and Out of Patients, which he says aims to call out all sorts of stupid BS in healthcare.

Other shows include Brave New Weed and Am I Dying?!, and future plans include coverage of everything from oral hygiene and multiple sclerosis to the fight for equity in biological parenthood through disease and fertility preservation and adoption and surrogacy.

OffScrip is also releasing an expose of sorts on breast cancer focused on long-ignored voices like those of transgender, LGBTQ and Black patients, which Zachary calls a social justice issue within the small lens of healthcare.

Im fighting for these people to be their voice, he says. I feel like we can be the company that elevates the voices that can be angry enough, but can stir the pot Thats the endgame here: nothing matters unless its policy.

Story continues

B-Freed Photography Matthew Zachary

A three-part documentary called #BCSM will also hit airwaves for Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, chronicling the birth of the breast cancer social media community and its impact as a global network of patients, caregivers, clinicians and researchers dedicated to empowering those affected by the disease.

The plan for OffScrip wasnt yet developed when Zachary left Stupid Cancer in 2019, but the father of two said he knew it was time to move on, as his now-10-year-old twins were getting older and he wanted to spend more time watching them grow.

With that in mind, he took a year off to visit with friends in places like Seattle, Los Angeles and Boston, all the while engaging in conversations that would eventually lead to OffScrip.

RELATED VIDEO: Couple Overcomes COVID-19, Cancer, Chemotherapy in 46-Year Marriage

Couple Overcomes COVID-19, Cancer, Chemotherapy in 46-Year Marriage

Robert and Janice Beecham were both diagnosed with COVID-19, but have recovered

I was joking like, Heres how to take our money! but its like, heres the white space you can fill that no one else is doing, he says. Remember that movie The Incredibles, where hes like, the insurance guy? And that old lady comes in and he gives her all the loopholes to get through the process? Theres a lot of parking lot conversations and loopholes that happen in healthcare. If you know how to navigate those waters you can actually impact with the same advocacy hat youve been wearing without the restrictions of nonprofit. So it just became very appealing over the year of sabbatical.

For Zachary, whether its as the face of Stupid Cancer or OffScrip Media, the goal remains the same: produce healthcare-related content thats focused on people as a means of advocating for the little guy.

This is about rallying American citizens, he says, to realize the only thing thats ever changed how things suck less for us when s happens, are people like us.

OffScrip Media shows are available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. The #BCSM project will launch on Oct. 30.
Castillo Copper Ltd - Australia and Zambia focused base metal explorer - Agrees to acquire two new tenements at its Broken Hill zinc-silver-lead project in New South Wales, Australia. The two tenements are the 611.9 square kilometre EL8434 and 72.4km2 EL8435, which will expand company's footprint in project. Now looking to conduct ground geophysics on priority targets, and then start formulating inaugural drilling campaign.

Current stock price: 2.67 pence

Year-to-date change: up 16% since August 4

By Dayo Laniyan; dayolaniyan@alliancenews.com

Copyright 2020 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
WASHINGTON, DC  U.S. Congressman Garret Graves (South Louisiana), a member of the U.S. House Natural Resources Committee, released the following statement today after a bill he sponsored and negotiated passed the U.S. Senate and now heads to President Trump for his signature. The legislation, H.R. 3399 - To amend the Nutria Eradication and Control Act of 2003 to include California in the program, and for other purposes, provides funding for a nutria bounty program and restoration funds to nutria related damage. U.S. Congressman Josh Harder (D-CA) is the sponsor of the legislation.

Weve spent months hosting meetings with Congressman Harder and representatives of the nutria community, but no solutions have prevailed in our negotiations for their peaceful surrender. Our funds were almost depleted but our spirits remained untouched in the fight for the soul of our marsh and coastal communities. With this swift action from the Commander in Chief, the states will have the resources needed to fight back the invasive species that accelerate the destruction of coastal wetlands, Graves said.

Nutria are a huge threat to our farms, our water infrastructure and our native ecosystems. Its time to get rid of them. I want to thank Congressman Graves for working with me on this bipartisan bill to help protect both of our districts from the swamp rat menace, Harder said.

The bill increases funding and expands efforts to control nutria populations. The funds will be distributed in an amount that is in proportion to the total impacted area affected by nutria. The legislation also allows the funding to be used to restore areas that have been lost or damaged by nutria. This includes public and private and private wetlands, agricultural lands and coastal marshes.

Click here for Graves remarks on the legislation passing the U.S. Senate.

Background:

In February, Graves spoke about the bill on the House Floor before the bill passed the U.S. House: I have come here many times to describe the coastal challenges we have in Louisiana. We have lost 2,800 square miles of our coast, and the 20 million invasive nutria infesting our state are part of the problem. Think about this: nearly 4.5 million people live in Louisiana, yet we have an estimated 20 million nutria20 million! It's an extraordinary figure. If we could count them in the census, Louisiana would pick up an additional 27 members of Congress. Were having infestation without representation and we need to do something about it

Click here for that previous speech.

The current Louisiana Coastwide Nutria Control Program is funded through 2022. To read more, click here.

2018-2019 Nutria Control Program:

223,155 nutria tails worth $1,115,775 in incentive payments were collected from 241 active participants

Terrebonne Parish turned in the most tails (51,960), followed by Plaquemines (39,657), and St. Mary (19,458) Parishes

86 (36%) participants turned in less than 200 tails, 49 (20%) turned in 200-499 tails, 28 (12%) turned in 500-799 tails, and 78 (32%) turned in >800 tails

55% of the nutria were harvested by rifle, 27% trapped, and 18% with a shotgun

The 2019 Nutria Herbivory Survey was completed May 23rd, there were 3,907 acres damaged along transect lines, which extrapolates to 14,652 acres coastwide
Secretary Benson discusses countering misinformation, voting absentee with Ottawa County Clerk Justin Roebuck

Secretary Benson discusses countering misinformation, voting absentee with Ottawa County Clerk Justin Roebuck

OCTOBER 1, 2020

Fourth "Ready for November" episode encourages voters to seek trusted info

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson interviews Ottawa County Clerk Justin Roebuck, a member of Michigans Election Modernization Advisory Committee, in the fourth episode of Ready for November, a video series Benson's office launched last month to inform voters ahead of the Nov. 3 general election.

Roebuck has been county clerk and register of deeds for Ottawa County since 2014 and served as elections coordinator for the county for several years prior to that. He serves as the current chairman of the Michigan Council of Election Officials, co-chair of the legislative committee of the Michigan County Clerks' Association and also serves nationwide as a member of the standards board for the Election Assistance Commission. The two talked about how Michiganders have successfully used the absentee voting option to cast their ballots during the COVID-19 pandemic in two earlier statewide elections this year. They also discussed how voters can counter the misinformation that is prevalent during this election season.

"One of the best things we can do to combat misinformation and disinformation is just consistent, accurate, factual information coming out of our office and trying to make sure that were staying consistent in our messaging with our voters," Roebuck said.

"As people have called our office, I think theres some great tools out therethe Secretary of States office has a great website, weve put together our own information online miottawa.org/securingthevoteand we're constantly trying to redirect folks to those sources and saying theres a lot of answers to your questions here. Heres some great places where you can get solid information on actually how this process does work."

"Voters can certainly look to you and their clerks for trusted sources of information at a time when so many others are trying to get their attention and confuse them about their rights," Secretary Benson said. "County clerks or local clerks, or our Secretary of State website, Michigan.gov/Vote, is where citizens can go to ascertain, get and spread trusted information."

For more information on Michigans election security efforts, visit Michigan.gov/ElectionSecurity.

This week's Ready for November episode can be found on the Michigan Department of States social media accounts and is archived on the MDOS informational webpage for the Nov. 3 election.



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A 28-year-old Calhoun County man is facing multiple felonies after authorities say he abducted his ex-wife and sexually assaulted her earlier this week.

Michael Preston McDonald was taken into custody Monday afternoon, hours after Anniston police had issued a lookout bulletin for McDonald and his ex-wife, saying the woman was likely in danger. Both were later found in Alexandria, which is about 10 miles from Anniston and where McDonald lives.

Court records made public Wednesday show McDonald has been formally charged with attempted murder, rape, kidnapping, sodomy and interference with a domestic violence emergency. Charging documents indicate he abducted the woman from her Anniston home with the intent to inflict physical injuries, terrorize her and sexually assault her.

He also, authorities contend, prevented her from calling 911 by taking away her cell phone.

The alleged crimes happened 10 days after the couples divorce was granted. McDonald remains in the Calhoun County Jail on bonds totaling $246,000.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 01:18:23|Editor: huaxia

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NANJING, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- Fishery authorities in east China will use a radar system to crack down on illegal fishing at Taihu Lake, the country's third-largest freshwater lake, where a 10-year fishing ban begins Thursday.

The radar system, launched by the city of Wuxi's Binhu District, in east China's Jiangsu Province, employs technologies like 5G, big data and cloud computing and can track 64 targets simultaneously, the district government said at a press conference Wednesday.

"The new system can timely spot and keep tracking a suspicious ship," said Ruan Yulin, deputy director of the district's bureau of agriculture and rural affairs.

Illegal fishing on the vast Taihu Lake often occurs at night and is hard to spot, but the introduction of radar technology will boost the authorities' detection capabilities.

China has imposed a fishing ban in 332 conservation areas along the Yangtze River since the beginning of this year, and a 10-year fishing ban will cover all the key waters of the country's longest river starting next year, as the country strives to protect marine fishery resources and the ecological environment. Enditem
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a chargesheet against Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) chief Muhammad Hafiz Saeed, his deputy Shahid Mehmood, a Dubai-based funds manager Mohammad Kamran and a Delhi-based hawala operator Mohammad Salim in connection with its money laundering probe against outfits financial arm Falah-i-Insaniyat (FiF) Foundation.

The agency had initiated a money laundering probe against Mohammad Salman and Mohammad Salim, arrested in 2018, on the basis of a probe by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

A statement by ED on Thursday said that Salman was involved in receiving funds from FIF operators through illegally operated hawala channels.

FiF is a Pakistan based organisation established by Jamat-ud-Dawa (JuD), the parent organisation of LeT, founded by Hafiz Saeed. FiF was designated as a terrorist organization by the United Nations in March 2012. The UN and the Indian agencies have repeatedly claimed that FIF is nothing but a front end organization of JuD & LeT that was formed to evade security and sanctions. India declared FIF as a terrorist organisation under Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) in August 2016.

The ED said that LeT uses FiF to raise funds and build a network for further terror activities.

The agencys probe revealed that funds were re-routed from Pakistan to Dubai and further to India through hawala channels.

Salman was the recipient of funds sent by Kamran and his associates Abdul Aziz Behlim and Arif Gulambashir Dharampuria, in Dubai. Salman used the funds received from abroad for construction of a Masjid at Uttawar, Palwal, Haryana and for the marriages of poor girls in and around the area of village Uttawar, the ED said.

The ED probe revealed Salman received Rs 4.69 crore through FiF and its members.

The agency said it has attached three properties of Salman in New Delhi worth Rs 73.12 lakh.

He was chargesheeted by the ED earlier this year. Both Salman and Salim are in jail.
B oris Johnson believes his father Stanley should have followed coronavirus restrictions after he was seen shopping without a face covering, Downing Street has said.

Stanley Johnson was forced to apologise and said he was "extremely sorry" after being pictured perusing the shelves at a newsagents in west London, seemingly in breach of the regulations.

The pictures emerged in the Mirror newspaper on Thursday, days after fines increased to 200 la for first time offenders who fail to wear a face covering in accordance with the Government's coronavirus guidance.

The Prime Ministers official spokesman said on Thursday: You have heard the Prime Ministers father apologise for his mistake.

He recognises his error and fully understands that it is vital for everyone to abide by the rules on face coverings and social-distancing.

The PM is certainly clear that the rules apply to everyone and everybody should follow them.

It comes after the Government have faced intense questioning about what actions should be taken against Mr Johnson and former Labour party leader Jeremy Corbyn.

Mr Corbyn also apologised for breaching the rule of six, which was introduced last month, by attending a dinner party alongside eight other people.

Environment Secretary George Eustice said it is for the police to decide whether to take action against Jeremy Corbyn and Stanley Johnson for apparent breaches of coronavirus restrictions.

Speaking to BBC Radio 4s Today programme, Mr Eustice said: The police will decide what approach they should take (with Stanley Johnson) but the appropriate response is to act in a proportionate and pragmatic way.

They are only using fines as a last resort where you have wilful and reckless disobedience of the regulations we have in place.

Boris Johnson during a media briefing in Downing Street / PA

As a general rule, whether it is on public transport or in other venues, it will be a matter of either directing people to comply with the rules or to leave the premises or to leave public transport and that is the approach that is working most effectively.

I think in both these cases, the (sic) leader of the Opposition (Jeremy Corbyn) and the Prime Ministers father, in both cases they have admitted to making an error and have apologised for doing so.

Speaking to the Mirror, Stanley Johnson said he may not be 100 per cent up to speed with current rules as he had just returned to England after three weeks abroad.

Im extremely sorry for the slip up and I would urge absolutely everybody to do everything they can to make sure they do follow the rules about masks and social distancing, he said.
The Uttar Pradesh administration sealed off Hathras and the UP Police arrested Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra after scuffles with party workers on Thursday, as protests escalated over the alleged gang rape and murder of a woman whose family said she was forcibly cremated in the dead of the night to scuttle growing public anger.

The former Congress president and his sister, who is also the general secretary in-charge of Uttar Pradesh, were on their way to meet the family of the 19-year-old Dalit woman in Hathras, where the administration enforced restrictions against public assembly of five or more people and barred the entry of media persons.

Watch: Rahul & Priyanka Gandhi Vs UP cops over march to Hathras; duo arrested

The Congress has sought chief minister Yogi Adityanaths resignation over the Hathras incident, as have several other rivals of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati said on Thursday that Adityanath must be replaced or the Centre should put the state under Presidents rule.

Also Read: Media will go, well still be here: Top official on visit to Hathras family

Meanwhile, UP cabinet minister Siddharth Nath Singh accused the Congress of politicising the incident.

On the Yamuna Expressway, roughly an hours drive from the national capital, a Congress convoy was stopped by the state police, forcing Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi and their party colleagues to walk. A group of policemen attempted to physically stop them, resulting in scuffles with party workers. At one point, Rahul Gandhi fell to the ground as a policeman attempted to stop him from moving forward. Video footage showed a messy scuffle, with, at one stage, the policemen pushing Gandhi and later body tackling him.

Also Read: In photos: Rahul Gandhi, sister Priyanka detained by UP Police

Shri Rahul Gandhi, Smt Priyanka Gandhi and senior Congress leaders have been arrested by the UP police, the party said on its official Twitter handle in the afternoon. The party leaders, who were arrested at 3.40pm, on the Yamuna Expressway, were taken to a facility at the Buddh International Circuit close by before being driven back to the national capital, accompanied by UP Police. The two were later booked for violating provisions of the epidemic diseases act that is in place for fighting the Covid-19 pandemic.

The BJP called the Gandhis attempt to visit Hathras political tourism. Union minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said the suspects arrested for the alleged gang rape and murder would be punished. The probe teams are carrying out the investigation, but I think there should not be political tourism..., he said.

The woman was allegedly raped and brutalised by four dominant-caste men on September 14 when she had gone to the fields in her village to gather cattle fodder. Left partially paralysed and admitted for treatment in the Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College of Aligarh Muslim University, she was shifted to New Delhis Safdarjung Hospital when her condition did not improve. She died on Tuesday morning.

Police on Thursday, however, contended that there was no rape  and referred to the first charge sheet filed in the matter that did not mention rape  contradicting a statement given by the victim in the Aligarh hospital days before she died. Conflicting videos did the rounds, increasing the murkiness around the crime (a young womans death, at the least), and highlighting efforts to spin the narrative.

Anger has mounted since the predawn cremation of the woman on Wednesday that her family said had been forced by the Uttar Pradesh authorities. Protests took place in Hathras, where the police were deployed in strength. Elsewhere in UP and in major metropolitan cities such as Delhi and Mumbai, political party workers and ordinary citizens held demonstrations for a second consecutive day on Thursday.

Priyanka Gandhi alleged that the police used lathis on Congress workers and that many of them were injured. The sticks of an egotistical government cannot stop us. I wish these lathis were used by this police while standing in defence of Hathrass Dalit daughter, she tweeted in Hindi.

Rahul Gandhi was seen asking the UP Police under which law he was being stopped and insisted that he would proceed alone towards Hathras to meet the rape victims family, given that section 144, which prohibits large gatherings, had been imposed.

Can you tell me under which law can you stop me from marching towards Hathras? I want to go alone to Hathras and on what basis can you arrest me, he asked, to which police officials replied that he had violated section 188 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for disobeying orders promulgated by the government during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Love Kumar, additional commissioner of police of Gautam Budh Nagar, said section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) had been enforced in the district. Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi and about 50 party workers were booked under section 188 of IPC (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant). They were released on personal bond in the evening, he said.

Kumar said the police used mild force to disperse the crowd and denied there was a lathi-charge.

Samajwadi Partys Akhilesh Yadav, BSPs Mayawati and Trinamool Congresss Mamata Banerjee lashed out at Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath.

Condemnation also came in from the chief ministers of Kerala and Punjab, while protests were held by cadres of SP, in addition to those by Congress workers, across multiple cities in Uttar Pradesh. In Aligarh, SP workers lodged a protest when they were stopped from moving towards Boolgarhi village in Hathras on Thursday.

Azad Samaj Party chief and Bhim Army founder Chandrashekhar Azad too demanded Presidents Rule in Uttar Pradesh, saying the constitutional machinery in the state failed to curb crimes against Dalits. Azad said he has started a dharna at his home in Saharanpur where he is put under a house arrest, which was ordered by the local police on Wednesday.

The Dalit activist was accompanying the family of the 19-year-old woman, who died in a Delhi hospital on Tuesday, a fortnight after she was allegedly gang-raped in UPs Hathras, to their home but was detained midway.
Bhubaneswar, Oct 1 : Tension ran high near the Odisha Assembly here after a youth held his mother hostage at knife point on Thursday, police said.

The Commissionerate Police personnel, deployed there for security in view of the Monsoon Session of the Assembly, overpowered the youth and rescued the woman.

The youth has been identified as Jitendra Pal of Nayagarh district.

He threatened to slit the throat of his mother in full public glare on Sachivalaya Marg.

The youth was holding some leaflets and accused some BJD leaders of indulging in corruption.

"He is my son. He asked me to accompany him to hospital. Later, he brought me to this place and grabbed me by my neck," said the woman.

The Commissionerate Police said that the youth has known psychiatric ailments.

He has been sent to the Psychiatry Department of SCB Medical College and Hospital.

Bhubaneswar Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Umashankar Dash said the mother-son duo hail from Nayagarh area and had come here for medical treatment.

"The Sachivalaya Marg is open for all, not a restricted area. The mother and son were walking along there. The duo halted at the Eastern Gate, where our security forces are deployed for the Assembly session. All of a sudden, the son pulled out a knife from his bag and placed it on his mother's neck," said the DCP.


Thai-based workers wearing augmented-reality (AR) smart glasses will transmit images and sound to Japan in real time. In turn, support technicians in Japan will provide highly detailed instructions, including manuals, images, checklists and other information, which the workers will view with their smart glasses.

TOKYO, Oct 1, 2020 - (JCN Newswire) - NTT DOCOMO, INC. announced today its new 5G X-Border Platform (5G-XBP) that directly connects the DOCOMO Open Innovation Cloud platform with 5G networks overseas using a dedicated network for closed communication walled off from the open Internet, allowing customers to use cloud services with confidence in secure cross-border environments.DOCOMO will initially use the new platform to offer a global version of the AceReal solution on a limited-time pre-service basis in Thailand, which will allow technicians in Japan to remotely support worksites in Thailand beginning October 15. The solution will be provided via a dedicated cloud network for secure, stable, and high-quality communications. DOCOMO will collaborate with local mobile operator Advanced Info Services Public Company Limited (AIS) to provide the service in Thailand.The AceReal global version solution includes the cloud-based AceReal Apps business-support application, AR smart glasses, communication lines and the Cloud DirectTM service, which directly connect devices to DOCOMO's cloud platform via an optimized path for secure, stable, 5G communications. AceReal Apps is offered via the DOCOMO Open Innovation Cloud platform.Later, DOCOMO will expand the 5G X-Border Platform globally to other markets and for other solutions. Japanese companies are expected to use the solution to provide their onsite and local employees with support from Japan while avoiding the difficulties of international travel during the COVID-19 pandemic. Primary applications will likely include support for product maintenance in the manufacturing sector and electricity and gas facility inspections in the infrastructure sector."The Coronavirus pandemic has had a big impact on individuals and businesses worldwide. The "New Normal" brings in an era of sophisticated, digital yet remote and distributed societies challenging the traditional way of how we conduct business.", said Mr Keisuke Yoshizawa, Executive General Manager, Global Business Division at NTT DOCOMO, INC. "As DOCOMO, we are determined to address these challenges by utilizing our technological expertise and experience as a leading telecommunications provider and bring in a social change. DOCOMO's 5G X-Border Platform brings in a paradigm shift by providing a very secure yet fast cloud-based connectivity platform allowing offshore and onsite teams to collaborate and work together in real-time even if separated by great distances and across international borders."Kenjiro Momi, president and chief real creator of TOYOKOH Inc., a Japanese company with business in Thailand, said: "To fully manage our unique processes for waterproofing and reinforcing roofs of commercial structures, we normally send Japanese technicians to worksites overseas. In a trial using DOCOMO's 5G X-Border Platform, however, our employees at TOYOKOH THAILAND were able to successfully complete a job for Thai Kansai Paint. DOCOMO's solution will create opportunities for us to expand our global business without having to send Japanese engineers overseas."Global business activities have been severely affected by international travel restrictions due to COVID-19. By providing this platform, DOCOMO hopes to help solve the huge logistical challenges for the nearly 1,400(1) Japanese companies that are trying to support their manufacturing operations in Thailand.Going Forward, DOCOMO is committed to helping customers overcome challenges to realize enhanced efficiency and prosperity through advanced 5G technologies and services as well as solutions offered via DOCOMO's 5G X-Border Platform in Thailand and other countries worldwide.(1) According to PDF49th Basic Survey on Overseas Business Activities, July 2019, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry AceReal is a registered trademark of SUNCORPORATION.DOCOMO Open Innovation Cloud is a registered trademark of NTT DOCOMO, INC.About NTT DOCOMONTT DOCOMO, Japan's leading mobile operator with over 80 million subscriptions, is one of the world's foremost contributors to 3G, 4G and 5G mobile network technologies. Beyond core communications services, DOCOMO is challenging new frontiers in collaboration with a growing number of entities ("+d" partners), creating exciting and convenient value-added services that change the way people live and work. Under a medium-term plan toward 2020 and beyond, DOCOMO is pioneering a leading-edge 5G network to facilitate innovative services that will amaze and inspire customers beyond their expectations. DOCOMO is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (9437). https://www.nttdocomo.co.jp/english/.Source: NTT DOCOMOCopyright 2020 JCN Newswire . All rights reserved.
Democrats and the White House are nearing a deal for the next coronavirus stimulus bill with a price tag of $2 trillion, including a retroactive boost in unemployment that will last through the end of the year.

The House Speaker met with Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin Wednesday afternoon for an hour-and-a-half to try and hammer out the details of a deal to provide relief to Americans and stimulus to the U.S. economy in the midst of the prevailing coronavirus pandemic.

Pelosi and Mnuchin plan to meet on Capitol Hill again Thursday and House Democratic leaders announced a delay in voting on their $2.2 trillion bill until after those talks.

'The speaker thinks there's a possibility of getting a deal,' House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer of Maryland told Roll Call after meeting with Pelosi.

'If we have a deal, yes, we may well do that,' Hoyer said when asked if the House would be willing to wait several more days to vote if Pelosi and Mnuchin want to continue fine tuning legislative text. 'But if we don't have a deal, then we're going to move the bill.'

A person briefed on the GOP plan told Roll Call Wednesday that Mnuchin's latest proposal includes a $400 per week federal benefit on unemployment insurance which would work retroactively to September 12 and continue through Jan. 1, 2021.

Although the new measure is $200 less than the $600 per week Democrats want, it is still $100 more than Senate Republicans proposed this summer.

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin will stop by Capitol Hill Thursday for another round of negotiations with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on the next coronavirus stimulus package

Although Pelosi and Mnuchin neared a deal during their talks Wednesday, the two are still billions apart on the desired price tags of their respective proposals

Mnuchin is also pitching $160 billion more to revive the Paycheck Protection Program, with $10 billion specifically allocated for minority-owned businesses.

The second round of forgivable loans will help more businesses remain open as they are hit by economic downfall in the midst of the pandemic. It also comes as American Airlines and United Airlines announced a mass round of furloughs are coming as their funds run out.

While Republicans want the deal to be more in the $1 trillion range  with some fiscal conservatives claiming there is no need for yet another COVID-19 stimulus package  Democrats are pushing for a bill with the likes of $2 trillion plus.

As of the latest package proposal, Pelosi has moved from her initial number of $3.4 trillion to $2.2 trillion, and Mnuchin has moved the needle on the right side of negotiations from $1 trillion to $1.62 trillion.

White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany cast doubt on the continued negotiations, accusing Pelosi of not taking the talks seriously.

'Nancy Pelosi is not being serious,' McEnany told reporters during a press briefing at the White House Thursday morning. 'If she becomes serious, then we can have a discussion here.'

But the speaker said during her weekly press conference at the Capitol about an hour earlier that she is 'optimistic' about the deliberations and looks forward to her discussion with Mnuchin later in the afternoon.

'We not only have a dollars debate, we have a values debate,' Pelosi told reporters. 'Still, I'm optimistic.'

Although the two parties still have a gap of $580 billion between their desired price tags, the move Wednesday night signals progress toward a deal being struck before the presidential election.

White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany accused Pelosi of 'not being serious' in negotiations. She said during a briefing Thursday: 'If she becomes serious, then we can have a discussion here'

Mnuchin admitted Wednesday night of Fox Business that Republicans will not go for such a high number.

'We're not going to do a $2.2 trillion deal,' Mnuchin said. 'The president instructed us to come up significantly, so we have come up from the trillion-dollar deal that we were working on earlier.'

If the right deal is made, Mnuchin signaled the White House's latest offer could be in the 'neighborhood' of $1.5 billion.

White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows told reporters traveling on Air Force One Wednesday night that GOP package 'extremely generous.'

Even as Pelosi and Mnuchin move closer to a deal, there is still doubt that it will ever reach the GOP-majority Senate floor.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said Wednesday they are still 'very, very far apart.'

Negotiations between Pelosi and Mnuchin, sometimes joined by Meadows, have been at a stand-still for months as it became clear the two sides were asking for more than the other was willing to give into.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell cast doubt Wednesday that the measure will even make it to the Senate floor, claiming they are still 'very, very far apart'

As Pelosi and Mnuchin met Wednesday, Meadows was on the other side of the Capitol meeting with McConnell.

Still unsolved by the two sides are how much to allocate for state and local funding in the next bill, as Democrats want $500 billion and Republicans are more near half that number. Funding for K-12 has also reached a halt with Democrats demanding $225 billion and Republicans only willing to go to $150 billion.

Also not yet agreed upon are several tax provisions, some related to health care.

The $250 billion Mnuchin is offering for state and local assistance is more than GOP negotiators have put forward to date.

It is unclear if McConnell will be able to sell anything higher than the $1 trillion the GOP Senate previously put forward as a vote on the new legislation comes to the higher chamber's floor.

Following Mnuchin's meeting with Pelosi on Wednesday, the Treasury Secretary briefed McConnell, and a source said the Kentucky Republican felt he might be able to get the votes needed  but a spokesperson for McConnell denied that characterization.
SACRAMENTO  California will ban certain police choke holds and establish independent investigations for some law enforcement shootings under legislation Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Wednesday  the remnants of what activists once hoped would be a far more ambitious overhaul of policing practices.

Although Newsom hailed several measures he signed as long overdue in California, activists who pushed lawmakers to consider much more following the police killing of George Floyd were frustrated that their biggest priorities fell short at the Capitol.

Im shocked, actually. Maybe arrogantly so, or naively so, said Cat Brooks, co-founder of the Anti Police-Terror Project in Oakland. She said many of the proposals that failed were no-brainers, given the groundswell of protests against police brutality and racism.

Were tinkering around the edges, Brooks said. We had an opportunity to make transformative and substantive change, and I feel like a lot of our lawmakers here in Sacramento ignored us.

Legislators introduced a flurry of measures this summer after Floyd, a Black man, was killed in May when a white Minneapolis police officer knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes. Activists hoped the national outcry would propel change in California, which, despite its liberal reputation, has historically been deferential to law enforcement and passed some of the strongest protections for officers in the country.

But the most far-reaching bills snagged on opposition from police groups, which expressed general approval for some of the ideas but urged lawmakers to delay action during the pandemic-shortened session and wait until next year, when there would be more time to deal with their objections.

Representatives for the California Police Chiefs Association and the Police Officers Research Association of California, a statewide federation of police unions, declined to comment Wednesday.

A bill to strip the badges from police officers who break the law and eliminate their legal immunity for killing a suspect ultimately died in the Legislature without ever getting a vote. Lawmakers also shelved a bill prompted by Floyds death that would have required police officers to intervene when their colleagues use excessive force. The clock ran out on measures to make more police records public and limit use of tear gas and rubber bullets at protests.

None of these bills are easy, Newsom said Wednesday at a virtual signing ceremony where he promised that legislative efforts would continue next year. They may appear to be easy on the outside. So many constituencies, so many nuances, a lot of folks pushing back.

The governor signed four bills that will change policing practices in California:

 AB1196 by Assemblyman Mike Gipson, D-Carson (Los Angeles County), which bans the use of choke holds that apply pressure to a persons windpipe, as well as a technique known as a carotid restraint, in which an officer applies pressure to the sides of a persons neck to cut off blood flow and quickly knock them unconscious. Newsom ordered the state this summer to stop teaching the hold in its police training programs, and some law enforcement agencies, including the San Mateo County Sheriffs Office and the Santa Rosa Police Department, have already stopped the practice. The San Francisco Police Commission prohibited carotid restraints in 2016.

Scott Strazzante / The Chronicle

 AB1506 by Assemblyman Kevin McCarty, D-Sacramento, which requires the state attorney general to investigate any incident in which a law enforcement officer kills an unarmed civilian. It was McCartys third attempt in five years to move investigations of police shootings out of the hands of local prosecutors, who critics argue are not well equipped to handle them because of their close relationships with law enforcement agencies. Previous efforts faced opposition from Attorney General Xavier Becerra and his predecessor, Kamala Harris, who have been reluctant to intervene in what they consider to be local investigations.

 AB1185 by McCarty, which allows counties to create oversight boards that can investigate their sheriffs departments.

 AB846 by Assemblywoman Autumn Burke, D-Marina del Rey (Los Angeles County), which requires that evaluations of prospective officers include a screening for biases based on race, ethnicity, gender, religion, disability and sexual orientation. It also requires departments to rewrite their job descriptions to emphasize community interaction over paramilitary aspects of the job.

Newsom vetoed four other policing measures:

 AB1299 by Assemblyman Rudy Salas, D-Bakersfield, which would have required law enforcement agencies to complete misconduct investigations when an officer was fired or left in the middle of the probe and report the results to the state. Newsom said in his veto message that the bill did not go far enough and could slow momentum for broader decertification measures in future legislative sessions.

 AB2054 by Assemblywoman Sydney Kamlager, D-Los Angeles, which would have established a pilot program for community groups to respond to mental health crises, domestic violence and other situations instead of law enforcement. Newsom said in his veto message that the underlying goal of this legislation is important, but should be done through the budget process.

 SB629 by Sen. Mike McGuire, D-Healdsburg, which would have allowed media members to report from areas that police close during a protest and prohibited officers from arresting reporters for failing to disperse. The bill defined journalists too broadly, Newsom said in his veto message , and could include those individuals who may pose a security risk  such as white nationalists, extreme anarchists or other fringe groups with an online presence.

 SB1220 by Sen. Tom Umberg, D-Santa Ana, which would have required law enforcement agencies to maintain a list of officers who have been convicted of crimes or misconduct in the previous five years and provide it to prosecutors. Newsom cited the cost of the mandate in his veto message.

Marc Philpart, managing director for PolicyLink, an advocacy group for racial and economic equality, said it was a disheartening year for legislative efforts to overhaul policing. He said lawmakers remain too beholden to the donations and political influence of law enforcement groups.

State to study slavery reparations California will create a task force to study reparations for slavery for African Americans, a measure intended to eliminate disparities that linger more than 150 years after the end of the Civil War. Gov. Gavin Newsom on Wednesday signed AB3121, which directs a task force to study the history of slavery and its enduring inequities for Black people, and recommend who should be eligible for reparations and the form of compensation. Assemblywoman Shirley Weber, the San Diego Democrat who carried the bill, said it will help California confront its role in enabling slavery and continuing problems with racial inequality. Slavery was never legal in California, but some white Southerners came to the state with slaves. Many accounts suggest that slavery was practiced in the open, with Black people forced to work on plantations and in gold mines, according to the California Historical Society. The nine-member task force will be appointed by the governor and legislative leaders. Its recommendations will go to the Legislature by June 2022. - Dustin Gardiner See More Collapse

The everyday crisis that is the extermination of Black people and people of color is just going unchecked, Philpart said. What are lawmakers waiting for? They havent communicated that to us.

After the Legislatures session ended in August, Senate President Pro Tem Toni Atkins, D-San Diego, affirmed her commitment to working on the decertification bill next year. Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon, D-Lakewood (Los Angeles County), created a committee to develop meaningful changes to policing in California. But activists expressed little optimism that legislators would put forward reforms needed to fix what they say is a broken system of policing.

The reality is weve given you a chance. Weve done training. Weve done body cameras, Brooks said. If you aint got it right yet, you aint going to get it right.

Alexei Koseff is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: alexei.koseff@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @akoseff
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. Russian President Vladimir Putin, French President Emmanuel Macron and US President Donald Trump have issued a joint statement regarding the situation at the Nagorno Karbakh conflict zone.

The President of the Russian Federation, the President of the United States of America and the President of the French Republic, representing the Co-Chair countries of the OSCE Minsk Group, condemn in the strongest terms the recent escalation of violence along the Line of Contact in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone.

We deplore the loss of human lives and extend our condolences to the families of those killed and injured.

We call for an immediate cessation of hostilities between the relevant military forces.

We also call on the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan to commit without delay to resuming substantive negotiations, in good faith and without preconditions, under the auspices of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs, the statement says according to the French MFA.
Study conducted by independent consulting firm reveals how Peakon enables organizations to generate strong return on investment (ROI) through improved productivity, reduced staff turnover, and less absenteeism

COPENHAGEN, Denmark, LONDON, AUCKLAND, New Zealand, BERLIN and NEW YORK, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Peakon - an employee success platform - today released a commissioned Total Economic Impact study, conducted by Forrester Consulting, which quantifies the benefits and returns of using Peakon. The study proved a direct correlation between employee success and business success.

A composite organization, made up of interviewed Peakon customers, enjoyed an ROI of 244 percent over three years, equating to a net present value (NPV) of $1.2million.

The study found that, by using Peakon, the composite organization financially benefited in the following ways:

Savings of approximately $871,000 driven by a 10% reduction in voluntary staff turnover over three years.

driven by a 10% reduction in voluntary staff turnover over three years. Estimated savings of $755,000 as a result of reduced employee absenteeism, with average absenteeism declining by two days after the first year with Peakon.

as a result of reduced employee absenteeism, with average absenteeism declining by two days after the first year with Peakon. Savings of around $5,200 as HR teams save seven days annually on post-survey analysis: Peakon survey results are delivered directly to managers instead.

When interviewed for the study, one enterprise customer from the recruitment sector said: "The Peakon platform drives engagement results to managers directly through the dashboard. That really empowers them to understand how they're leading the team, what's working well, and what improvements they could make."

Another enterprise customer, director of people services in the non-profit industry, said: "The implementation process itself was probably one of the easiest I've ever been a part of... It was seamless. It was right on time as promised."

In addition to the quantifiable benefits above, the composite organization also reaped the following unquantified benefits:

Improved Employee Experience (EX). Peakon customers interviewed for the study repeatedly stated that their EX scores improved following the implementation. As we know from previous research, engaged employees positively impact customer experience, productivity, hiring, and overall profitability.

Peakon customers interviewed for the study repeatedly stated that their EX scores improved following the implementation. As we know from previous research, engaged employees positively impact customer experience, productivity, hiring, and overall profitability. Empowered managers. The composite organization found that Peakon helps to empower managers. It makes it easier for managers to address difficult issues, implement changes, and to improve team engagement. Peakon provides suggestions for training and follow-up, in addition to the initial data and team insights.

The composite organization found that Peakon helps to empower managers. It makes it easier for managers to address difficult issues, implement changes, and to improve team engagement. Peakon provides suggestions for training and follow-up, in addition to the initial data and team insights. Initiating organizational culture change. The study also found that, with Peakon, employees feel heard, and managers can identify and address issues quickly. This helps to facilitate a change in established attitudes and behaviors - and ultimately a culture shift.

All interviewees flagged their appreciation of Peakon's continued platform development. Ongoing updates provide additional benefits and use cases, allow for greater flexibility, and further cost avoidance.

Commenting on the findings, Peakon CEO and co-founder Phil Chambers said: "More companies are partnering with Peakon as they begin to understand the direct and inextricable correlation between strong employee engagement and better business outcomes.

"As this study shows, Peakon customers enjoy benefits that extend far beyond improved employee engagement scores. This includes reduced staff turnover and absenteeism, better customer experience and productivity, and healthier profits as a result."

Chambers adds: "We've long since understood the business benefits of making your people the top priority. We believe that this study by Forrester Consulting just proves it further by quantifying the impact Peakon can have on businesses worldwide."

Download THE TOTAL ECONOMIC IMPACT OF PEAKON here.

Forrester developed the Total Economic Impact of Peakon, commissioned by Peakon, through four enterprise customer interviews at organizations using Peakon to obtain data with respect to costs, benefits, and risks, and subsequent financial analysis. Forrester conducted customer interviews across recruiting, defense, non-profit and media industries.

Total Economic Impact is a methodology developed by Forrester Research that enhances a company's technology decision-making processes and assists vendors in communicating the value proposition of their products and services to clients. The TEI methodology helps companies demonstrate, justify, and realize the tangible value of IT initiatives to both senior management and other key business stakeholders.

About Peakon

Peakon is an employee success platform that converts feedback into insights. It makes the employee conversation quantifiable and actionable to increase employee engagement - not simply measure it. Peakon's core belief is that work should work for people, and with the largest standardised data set of employee feedback in the world, Peakon provides customised benchmarks and personalised insights to support our mission of helping every employee drive the change they want to see. To date, Peakon has helped organisations like Capgemini, Verizon, Pret, Trustpilot, and easyJet make fundamental changes in how they operate to improve employee experience, driving greater business results.
Biden interjected with 'inshallah' when Trump said he would release tax returns showing he paid 'millions' of dollars

The term means 'god willing' an Arabic and Farsi but can be used as a more sarcastic 'yeah, right'

His use of the phrase drew immediate attention on the internet, then got picked up around the globe

Its use was praised by Arab publications, as well as the Forward, which noted some Jewish dialects also use it

Former Vice President Joe Biden's use of the term 'inshallah' in the presidential debate has drawn notice around the globe  with international media highlighting it and parsing whether the presidential candidate was being sarcastic.

Biden dropped the phrase while sparring with President Trump in the chaotic first presidential debate in a spat over revelations that the president paid just $750 in individual federal income tax in 2016.

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It came up when Trump said he had paid 'millions of dollars, and you'll get to see it,' after Biden demanded he release his tax returns.

President Donald Trump

Joe Biden

'When?' Biden interrupted. 'Inshallah?'

His use of the phrase, used both in Arabic and Farsi, drew immediate note on debate night, as people analyzed the clip.

'Yes, Joe Biden said 'Inshallah' during the #Debates2020 debate,' wrote political commentator Wajahat Ali, in a post that made its way around the internet.

He noted that the phrase means 'God willing,' but can also be used sarcastically.

'It literally means 'God willing,' but it's often used to mean, 'Yeah, never going to happen.' Example: My wife: Will you finally pick up your socks? Me: Inshallah. No, saying inshallah doesn't make you Muslim,' he wrote.

NPR confirmed that Biden had, in fact, said 'inshallah,' as some viewers wondered if it was a slip of the tongue.

Before served two terms as vice president, Biden chaired the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and has traveled around the world, giving him ample opportunity to pick up the phrase.

The Arab News, an English language Saudi daily, reported that Biden's comment 'lit up Twitter across the Arab world.'

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'Whether or not he actually uttered the familiar Arabic expression remains a mystery but it certainly caught the attention of American expats in the Gulf, some of whom feel distanced from the core issues of the election,' according to the publication.

The Pakistan Observer reported that the phrase 'raised eyebrows' and picked up AP reporting on its use.

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Al Jazeera reported the moment was being called 'historic' on Twitter.

The Kashmir Monitor noted that many confused English-speakers turned to Internet for answers, as google searches spiked for 'What is Inshallah?' as well as 'What is Inshallah definition?' and 'What does Inshallah mean?'

The Forward, a longtime Jewish publication, noted that many Jews from Middle Eastern countries also use the phrase.

It called it 'an Arabic phrase literally meaning 'God willing' or sometimes a sarcastic 'yeah, right.'

'Jews have reason to be excited as well,' the paper wrote. 'While equivalents like the Hebrew bezrat Hashem or Aramaic bsiyata dshmaya are used by Jewish communities all over the world in similar ways, for many Sephardi and Mizrahi Jewish communities who have spoken Arabic or dialects of Judeo-Arabic for hundreds of years, inshallah is as much a Jewish phrase as it is a Muslim one.
Twitter went down for many users on Thursday, leaving people around the world unable to load or post new tweets.

The outage began at around 3pm BST and appeared to last for around 30 minutes.

Website monitor DownDetector registered thousands of reports from users experiencing difficulties connecting.

The highest concentration of reports came from Japan, according to an outage map.

Users in the UK, Netherlands and US also reported issues with the service.

The Independent contacted Twitter for further details.

Twitter Support wrote in a successful tweet following the outage: Let's see if this works... You may have had trouble sending and seeing Tweets. (Yeah, us too.) Weve now fixed this.
Error. Page cannot be displayed. Please contact your service provider for more details. (19)
Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who is recovering in Germany after being poisoned in by a nerve agent, accused Russian President of being behind the attack in comments released Thursday.

Navalny's supporters have frequently maintained that such an attack could have only been ordered at the top levels, though the Kremlin has steadfastly denied any involvement in it.

Navalny, a politician and corruption investigator who is Putin's fiercest critic, was flown to Germany two days after falling ill on Aug. 20 on a domestic flight in

He spent 32 days in the hospital, 24 of them in intensive care, before doctors deemed his condition had improved sufficiently for him to be discharged.

He has posted frequent comments online as his recovery has progressed, but in his first interview since the attack, he told Germany's Der Spiegel magazine that in his mind, Putin was behind the attack, in a German translation of his comments.

I don't have any other versions of how the crime was committed," he said in a brief excerpt of the interview conducted in Berlin on Wednesday and to be released in full online later Thursday.

Navalny spent those two days in a coma in a hospital in the Siberian city of Omsk, where Russian doctors said they found no trace of any poisoning, before being transported to Berlin for treatment. German chemical weapons experts determined that he was poisoned with the Soviet-era nerve agent Novichok findings corroborated by labs in France and Sweden.

The nerve agent used in the attack was the same class of poison that Britain said was used on former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter in Salisbury, England, in 2018. German Chancellor Angela Merkel called the poisoning an attempted murder and she and other world leaders have demanded that fully investigate the case.

Russia has bristled at the demands for an investigation, saying that Germany needs to share medical data in the case or compare notes with Russian doctors. Germany has noted that Russian doctors have their own samples from Navalny since he was in their care for 48 hours.

Germany has also enlisted the Hague-based Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons for technical assistance. The agency has collected independent samples from Navalny for testing, but results haven't yet been announced.

German doctors have said Navalny could make a full recovery, though haven't ruled out the possibility of long-term damage from the nerve agent.

Spiegel said Navalny was joking and alert in the interview with them, though his hands shook so much it was difficult for him to drink from a bottle of water. He also reiterated what his team has previously said that he planned on returning to Russia when he was able. My job now is to remain the guy who isn't scared, he was quoted as saying. And I'm not scared.
Greece and Turkey set up a military hotline on Thursday to avoid accidental clashes in the eastern Mediterranean, where they are at loggerheads over energy resources and maritime borders, NATO said.

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg welcomed the breakthrough, which comes after several weeks of talks between military officials from the two alliance members.

The two NATO members agreed to the talks after a standoff over gas exploration in contested waters led to a dramatic ramping-up of tensions, stoking fears that conflict could erupt, perhaps by accident.

"Following a series of technical meetings between the military representatives of Greece and Turkey at NATO Headquarters in Brussels, a bilateral military de-confliction mechanism was established on Thursday," NATO said in a statement.

"The mechanism is designed to reduce the risk of incidents and accidents in the Eastern Mediterranean. It includes the creation of a hotline between Greece and Turkey, to facilitate de-confliction at sea or in the air."

Tensions between Greece and Turkey have eased somewhat in the last couple of weeks and the two governments have agreed to begin exploratory talks to resolve their dispute.

Stoltenberg thanked both sides for their "constructive engagement".

"This safety mechanism can help to create the space for diplomatic efforts to address the underlying dispute and we stand ready to develop it further," Stoltenberg said.

The announcement of the breakthrough came as EU leaders began tough summit talks on their relations with Turkey.

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[SEAGULLS SQUAWKING] You could not learn to swim in Harlem if you didnt go to the Harlem Y. There was no effort to really encourage youngsters in Harlem and Brooklyn to learn how to swim. So a lot of my friends never learned how to swim. And thats sad, because 3/4 of the world is water. So if you dont know how to survive around water, youre a little more in jeopardy. But segregation, that was another cost of segregation and discrimination. You couldnt even learn to swim in New York. I mean, New York is surrounded by water. [MUSIC PLAYING] When most Japanese [INAUDIBLE] it is not in the middle of a vast, smoke-clogged, industrial metropolis, but in the tree-lined outskirts of a small American town, the seaport community named Sag Harbor in the state of New York. The history of Sag Harbor, U.S.A., has been tied to the sea. A century ago, its name was known on almost all of the seven seas, for Sag Harbor was home port to some of the most famous of Americas whaling fleet, ships that scoured the world for the most precious and largest of the oceans creatures. [MUSIC PLAYING] Many of the African-American males that were here established their wealth through the occupation of whaling. Black folk learned how to sail. Now, we came here on sailboats 300 years ago, but we werent running those boats. Here, you run your own sailboat. Youre in command. African-American women were matriarchs in this community because of their husbands occupation. They owned land here legally before women were allowed to own land. They were head of households because of the wealth that they accumulated together. Sag Harbor was always a place, especially Eastville, where free Blacks lived among Natives and among working-class white people. And so the idea that all these people living together doing their thing in this community  and this is in the 1800s  was obviously not common. This house has a history of having three families of Black ancestry living in it. Before SANS developed, the summer houses were mine and the three or four here and a few that are on Liberty Street. They were all summer houses. And its basically from that group that SANS really got started. [MUSIC PLAYING] This wasnt desirable land back then because it was marsh. It wasnt developed. And so it was attainable. [MUSIC PLAYING] Sag Harbor was a rare opportunity. So, we live in the Azurest neighborhood. Azurest is the A in SANS. SANS stands for Sag Harbor Hills, Azurest, Ninevah, Subdivisions. The early houses were small. There wasnt a lot of cash in the old days, and so people built what they could afford. And at the time, African-Americans had difficulty getting mortgages. So they really were just building what they had in cash on hand. [MUSIC PLAYING] The Black banks developed because Blacks couldnt get money from the predominantly white banks. African-Americans were not being offered beautiful, virgin land on the water anywhere in America. This is in the 40s, you know, and so we were up against a lot of resistance. And so we had to certainly use our own people to get financing. [MUSIC PLAYING] Now, this tree is an old hickory tree. And its famous on these grounds because this is a tree that Langston Hughes wrote poetry under in 1952. He was visiting the Pickens, and he came here, and he knew the Trotts, because all the families knew each other in the area. And he came here, and he loved the tree, and he loved the bench, and he just sat here and wrote poetry. Well, when we were children, really you knew everybody. Back then, there were only about 14 or 15 houses in all of Sag Harbor Hills, so everybody was an aunt or an uncle. It was like a big, extended family. Our grandparents knew each other, our kids are now friends, and our grandchildren are friends. So weve had five generations of friendships. I think places like Sag Harbor are very important to the African-American community, because it is really a safe haven. The word community has the word unity in it. And were united in the love and reverence for this place. In my family, Im the fifth generation, through my granddaughter, to occupy this land. Five generations. Id like it to be 10. [MUSIC PLAYING] The developers are really targeting our community. Its ideal real estate. They want to flip it to a different kind of community, and we want it to be ours still. And its not that we object to other people moving in, its just that we want to maintain the sense of community. If they want to come and be a part of the community, its fine. But if you want to come and chase all of us out, its a whole different thing. And thats the problem. And you have a developer and some people pushing an agenda that isnt the proper agenda to approach, and its more of a scare tactic. [MUSIC PLAYING] [CHILDREN GIGGLING] There are things that can be done, but it is supposed to be done collectively by the community. So for me, as a historian, a preservationist, a history teacher and professor, I will continue to tell the story and write it down until everyone learns about the tenacity of the women and the men who continue to make sure that their children have access to what every one mother, grandmother, auntie, cousin wanted. So, I think for kids, and particularly our kids, like to see that this is what they come from and this is their history, this is not new, and just kind of understanding how their great-grandparents, I guess, got here. Its just something that they need to know. And hopefully, they value it, because what we really want to have happen is this gets passed on and on and on. And I think the worst thing you would see here is things not being passed on to the next generation. [MUSIC PLAYING]
We have information that indicates with certainty that Syrian fighters from jihadist groups have transited through [the Turkish city of] Gaziantep to reach the theatre of operations in Nagorno-Karabakh, said French President Emmanuel Macron This is a very serious new fact, which changes the situation.

We have agreed with President [Donald] Trump and President [Vladimir] Putin to exchange all the information we have on this situation and to draw all the consequences", Macron added as he arrived for a summit with other European Union leaders in Brussels.

According to Macrons office, the French and Russian presidents shared their concern regarding the sending of Syrian mercenaries by Turkey to Nagorno-Karabakh when they spoke by phone on Wednesday night.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Russian Foreign Ministry expressed serious concern over what it described as a dispatch of Syrian and Libyan terrorists and mercenaries to the Karabakh conflict zone. It demanded their immediate withdrawal from the region.

Russias Security Council discussed the matter at a meeting on Thursday chaired by Putin. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said they noted the extreme danger in the region emanating from the presence of jihadist fighters.

Unlike Macron, Moscow did not publicly and explicitly implicate Turkey in their recruitment, which has been reported by Western media and Syrian opposition sources since the outbreak on September 27 of heavy fighting around Karabakh.

Earlier this week, the Reuters news agency quoted two fighters from Islamist rebel groups in areas of northern Syria under Turkish control as saying that they are deploying to Azerbaijan in coordination with Ankara. One of them claimed that nearly 1,000 Syrians are set to be sent to Azerbaijan.

Turkey has denied sending mercenaries to take part in the conflict.

The Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry likewise insisted on Thursday that no Syrian mercenaries have joined Azerbaijani troops fighting Armenian forces in Karabakh. We strongly deny such claims and maintain that the Azerbaijani army does not need any outside forces to ensure the countrys territorial integrity, the ministry said in a statement.

Armenia maintains that Islamist militants from the Middle East are participating in the hostilities in Karabakh. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian hailed the Russian and French statements confirming their presence.

The international community has now clearly stated that the Azerbaijani-Turkish alliance is waging a war against Artsakh (Karabakh) and Armenia with the help and involvement of foreign terrorist fighters, Pashinian said in a Facebook post.

He said the mercenaries also pose an equally serious security threat to the United States, Russia, France as well as Iran.

An Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman reportedly warned on Wednesday that Tehran will not allow terrorist groups in the areas adjacent to the northern borders of our country to become a center of threat against our national security.
LONDON, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Greensill, the leading provider of working capital finance for businesses and employees globally, has strengthened its Board of Directors with the appointment of Tracy Clarke as a Non-Executive Director, effective 1st January, 2021.

Tracy will join the Greensill Group Board next year upon her retirement from Standard Chartered. Tracy is currently CEO, Europe and Americas and Global CEO, Private Banking at Standard Chartered plc, a leading international trade finance bank. She recently announced her retirement, following a distinguished 35 year career with the bank. During this time she held a broad portfolio of leadership, compliance, HR, corporate affairs, brand and marketing roles. She is a Director of TheCityUK and sits on the Board of England Netball. Previously she was a Non-Executive Director of BSkyB for six and a half years, prior to its acquisition by Comcast; and was a Non-Executive Director of satellite-operator Inmarsat until its sale to private equity in December 2019. She holds an MBA from Brunel University.

Maurice Thompson, Chairman of the Board of Greensill, said: "We are delighted to welcome Tracy to Greensill. She brings a wealth of experience, working at the highest levels within a listed global bank specialising in trade finance. She is joining Greensill at an exciting time in our growth trajectory as we continue to accelerate the movement of capital into the real economy, where it is needed most".

Tracy Clarke said: "I am excited to be joining Greensill at this time. I have been impressed by the company's innovative approach to working capital solutions and improving the way that businesses and individuals are paid. I look forward to contributing to the next chapter of Greensill's growth."

About Greensill

Founded in 2011, Greensill is headquartered in London with offices in New York, Frankfurt, Chicago, Miami, Singapore, Bogota, Shenzhen, Abu Dhabi, Johannesburg, Sydney, Warrington and Bundaberg. Greensill provides innovative working capital financing solutions to customers across Europe, North America, Latin America, Middle East, Africa, and Asia  injecting more than $143 billion of financing in 2019 to more than 10 million customers and suppliers across more than 175 countries.

Greensill's Board of Directors

More details on Greensill's Board members can be found here.

SOURCE Greensill
Amazon on Thursday released comprehensive data on the spread of the coronavirus among its employees, disclosing for the first time that more than 19,000 workers, or 1.44% of the total, contracted the virus this year.

Between March 1 and Sept. 19, Amazon counted 19,816 presumed or confirmed Covid-19 cases across its roughly 1.37 million Amazon and Whole Foods Market front-line employees across the U.S.

The information comes months after labor groups, politicians and regulators repeatedly pressed Amazon to disclose how many of its workers were infected by Covid-19. Early on in the pandemic, warehouse workers raised concerns that Amazon wasn't doing enough to protect them from getting sick and called for facilities with confirmed cases to be shut down. Lacking data from Amazon, warehouse workers compiled a crowdsourced database of infections based on notifications of new cases at facilities across the U.S.

Amazon previously declined to share the data, saying it would be misleading and lacked context. In Thursday's blog post, Amazon said the total number of infections would be "more powerful" if other companies released similar data. "Wide availability of data would allow us to benchmark our progress and share best practices across businesses and industries," the company said.

There have been at least eight confirmed Amazon worker Covid-19 deaths this year, but Amazon did not give an updated figure in its announcement Thursday.

Walmart, the largest employer in the U.S., said in April that fewer than 1% of its roughly 1.5 million U.S. employees had gotten sick with the coronavirus. The company has not released a total number or an updated percentage. Walmart didn't immediately respond to a request for comment.

Amazon's total does not include its network of third-party delivery drivers, which handle a portion of last-mile deliveries. It's unclear how many contracted drivers make up Amazon's third-party delivery network, but the company previously said it has added nearly 85,000 jobs across the U.S., Canada, UK, Spain, and Germany.

Amazon said the rate of infection among employees was 42% lower than expected, compared with the "general population rate" in the U.S. If Amazon's infection rates were in line with the community, the total number of cases would have reached 33,952, the company said.

The company has long maintained that the rate of infection in its warehouses is lower than what the rates are in surrounding communities, though that has been disputed by workers, specifically at an Amazon warehouse in Minnesota, where infection rates exceeded community levels.

Amazon also gave an update on its progress providing coronavirus testing to front-line workers. Thousands of tests are being conducted daily, Amazon said, and it expects that to grow to 50,000 tests a day across 650 facilities by November.

CNBC previously reported Amazon's goal is to test the bulk of its front-line workers every two weeks, with employees testing themselves with nasal swabs. The company previously said it would invest its expected Q2 profit of $4 billion into its Covid-19 response and will spend $1 billion on testing throughout the year.

Amazon has built a dedicated team of research scientists, program managers, procurement specialists and software engineers in order to quickly scale up its testing capabilities, it said. It has built its own lab to develop coronavirus testing capacity, with teams focused on these efforts in Sunnyvale, California, and Hebron, Kentucky.

 CNBC's Melissa Repko contributed to this article.
The Metro Bar in Londonderry has temporarily closed after a staff member tested positive for the virus. (Liam McBurney/PA)

Stormont health minister Robin Swann has described a surge of coronavirus cases in the north-west of Northern Ireland as not expected.

The Derry City and Strabane Council area had previously seen lower numbers of Covid-19 compared with other areas.

But a surge saw it become one of the areas in the UK with the highest number of cases per 100,000 people.

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Mr Swann told the Stormont health committee there is sustained transmission of Covid-19 in the community in Derry and Strabane.

The increase that weve seen in the Strabane and Derry City Council area has been stark, its been dramatic. Its not something that we were expecting, to be brutally frank, he told MLAs.

Sinn Fein MLA Pat Sheehan raised concerns with the minister over services, saying there is a Covid service, but not a health service unless you have an immediate life-threatening condition.

When can we expect normal service to be resumed? he asked.

Mr Swann responded by saying it is not possible to give a date until Covid-19 has gone away.

But he said officials are trying to open up as many services as possible.

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Chief medical officer Dr Michael McBride warned the health service is not likely to be business as usual for many, many months  until such times as we have better control on the virus.

He also gave a stark description of the experience of a seriously-ill Covid-19 patient, saying it is difficult for people to imagine what its like to be fighting for your breath.

Youve got a mask tightly fitted over your face, which many people find quite claustrophobic, he said.

Its a bit like facing into a wind tunnel, youve got this air coming at high pressure forcing air into your airways, its a very unpleasant experience.

Its a very, very scary experience, and when individuals are paralysed and ventilated, they dont know whether they are going to wake up again Dr Michael McBride

What you know as a patient sitting there is its the difference between you keeping well and staying well, and perhaps ending up needing to be transferred into intensive care.

Then comes the conversation that has to be had with those individuals, that once they are ventilated they might never wake up again, it may not ever be possible to take them off the ventilator.

Its a very, very scary experience, and when individuals are paralysed and ventilated, they dont know whether they are going to wake up again, and their relatives dont know if they are going to wake up again, and sadly for too many, they dont.

SDLP MLA Colin McGrath joined the meeting by video call after going into self-isolation following a notification via the Stop Covid NI app that he had been in contact with a positive case of Covid-19.

He described himself as the living embodiment of the Covid app actually working.
TEN new cases of Covid-19 have been reported in Limerick this Thursday, the Department of Health has confirmed.

It's the second day in a row that the daily number of cases has been in double figures - yesterday 12 new cases of the disease were reported in Limerick.

Nationally, the Health Protection Surveillance Centre has been notified of 442 new confirmed cases of Cpvid-19 bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Ireland to 36,597.

170 cases are in Dublin, 47 in Cork, 28 in Donegal, 23 in Meath, 21 in Galway, 20 in Monaghan, 14 in Clare, 12 in Roscommon, 11 in Laois, 11 in Longford, 10 in Cavan, 10 in Limerick, 10 in Tipperary, nine in Kildare, eight in Wicklow, five in Louth and five in Wexford with the remaining 28 cases in nine counties.

Twelve cases of Covid-19 were reported in Limerick on Wednesday, nine on Tuesday, six on Monday, six on Sunday, three on Saturday and six last Friday.

Read also: Further restrictions on household visits likely to be introduced in Limerick

Of the cases reported today 225 are men and 217 are women with more than two thirds of them (67%) aged under 45.

The National Public Health Emergency Team says 54% of the cases are confirmed to be associated with outbreaks or are close contacts of a confirmed case. 69 cases have been identified as community transmission.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 1) A member of the House of Representatives is questioning the sudden suspension of the 2021 budget deliberations, saying the move is an 'affront' to taxpayers.

We dont have any work today. We didnt even finish yesterdays business. Thats an affront to the taxpayers. If I could give back my salary for yesterday, I will, PBA Party-list Rep. Jericho Nograles told CNN Philippines The Source on Thursday. Cancel for what? Hindi inexplain sa amin (It wasnt explained to us)."

The lower chamber has decided to put its budget hearings on hold until Friday morning. This came after the lawmakers voted to reject speaker Alan Peter Cayetanos resignation offer on Wednesday.

Nograles bared he walked away from the plenary and refused to cast a vote on whether to accept or deny Cayetanos resignation, as he called the proceedings absurd.

I find it absurd because first of all, what is an 'offer to resign'? Nothing in the rules of the House of Representatives talks about an offer of resignation its either you resign or you do your job, Nograles explained.

I decided to walk away because I could not, in good conscience, participate in wasting the taxpayers time. Congressmen are there to do a job. And our job is to pass the budget, the lawmaker stressed.

Nograles noted the speaker could have spoke about the matter virtually either through video conferencing application Zoom or Facebook instead of hijacking the floor deliberations.

House members have repeatedly vowed the timely passage of next year's proposed budget in line with President Rodrigo Dutertes appeal despite the heated leadership row.

READ: Pass 2021 budget on time, Palace tells House amid speakership controversy

Cayetanos offer to step down came a day after a meeting with his slated successor, Marinduque Rep. Lord Allan Velasco, and Duterte, who brokered the term-sharing deal for the House speakership.

Under the deal, Cayetano was supposed to serve as Speaker for the first 15 months or until October this year. Velasco would then take over the post for the succeeding 21 months.

Velasco, meanwhile, also lamented the suspension of the budget deliberations, and called Cayetano out for supposed political maneuverings and theatrics. The speaker has yet to issue a response to this comment.
(Natural News) When the big tech behemoths all announced after the 2016 election they were going to begin fact-checking posts because of all that Russian misinformation that led to Donald Trump winning the White House, we knew what they meant.

The platforms were not interested in fact-checking anything because left-wing media types never are. Rather, conservatives believed Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Google and the other biggies were really aimed at censoring content they didnt like or otherwise approve of.

And we were right.

Just like the commies they are, they went into Stalin mode and have begun deep-sixing any and all information that doesnt comport with accepted knowledge. If the content doesnt toe the party line, then it gets deleted or blocked and the user who posted the information punished or banned.

Thats what has happened to any and all content related to claims by a rogue Chinese scientist that, based on her research and that of three others, the COVID-19 virus was actually manufactured in a lab in Wuhan, and did not naturally occur from bats (as weve all been told for the past six months).

In recent days, Dr. Li-Meng Yan  who has fled her China home and prestigious position at a Hong Kong university  posted a link on Twitter to the research which indicates strongly that the novel coronavirus was manufactured in a lab, not a naturally occurring new virus.

But within a few days, her content was taken down and her account banned by the speech Nazis there who are obviously carrying water for the commies in Beijing.

Next, Li-Meng appeared on Fox News Tucker Carlson Tonight in which she discussed various aspects of her and her teams findings. After the interview, Carlson later said, a video of the segment reached 1.3 million people on Facebook.

And thenit vanishedbecause apparently, Mark Zuckerberg is in bed with the ChiComs too.

And why wouldnt it? The coronavirus pandemic has touched the life of every American. And justifiably, people want to know where it came from. But Facebook still doesnt want you to know that, Carlson said.

So Facebook suppressed the video, presumably on behalf of the Chinese government. Facebook executives made it harder for users to watch our segment. Those who found the video had to navigate a warning that the interview repeats information about COVID-19 that independent fact-checkers say is false, he continued.

What a laugh. Fact-checkers who never spent 10 minutes in a lab doing any kind of COVID-19 research have deemed a highly educated research teams findings wrong simply because the tech/media left cant allow the authoritarian Chinese to be embarrassed, for some reason.

Instagram, which Facebook also owns did the same thing. Twitter suspended Dr. Yans account entirely. It did not explain why, Carlson continued. Nor did the tech companies explain how they would know more about disease transmission than an MD, PhD virologist like Dr. Li-Meng Yan. Instead, Facebook and Instagram linked to three so-called fact checks which supposedly proved Yan was lying.

But if you clicked on the provided links, youd notice something odd. The fact checks were all published months ago, many months  in January, February, and March, and they had nothing whatsoever to do with what Dr. Li-Meng Yan said on our show, Carlson noted. One of the fact checks attacks a completely unrelated claim, the virus was patented and that a vaccine was prepared and ready to go.

Li-Meng never made such claims.

What does that have to do with the interview we did? No one will tell us that. The truth is, and you know it if youve watched carefully, experts have been wrong frequently throughout this pandemic  They have changed their prescriptions many times, he continued.

Heres a fact check: The left-wing tech giants hate America  the country that spawned them  so much they would rather support authoritarians in China who suppress people, freedom and liberty. The question iswhy?

Sources include:

NaturalNews.com

ZeroHedge.com
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Yves here. I know I keep revealing myself to be a Luddite, but I cannot comprehend why anyone would share health information with a technology company. And thats before getting to the fact that studies have found that this sort of self-monitoring does not improve health. But it should come as no surprise that it is the Europeans who are raising concerns about the hazards of a proposed Fitbit-Google deal.

This post also provides a overview of how Google has leveraged its various services to extent its data reach and stymie competitors.

By Marc Bourreau, Cristina Caffarra, Zhijun Chen, Chongwoo Choe, Gregory Crawford, Tomaso Duso, Christos Genakos, Paul Heidhues, Martin Peitz, Thomas Rnde, Monika Schnitzer, Nicolas Schutz, Michelle Sovinsky, Giancarlo Spagnolo, Otto Toivanen, Tommaso Valletti, and Thibaud Verge. Originally published at VoxEU

The European Commission is conducting an in-depth investigation of the Google/Fitbit deal. A static, conventional view would suggest limited issues from a merger of complements. Yet, as this column outlines, unprecedented concerns arise when one sees that allowing for Fitbits data gathering capabilities to be put in Googles hands creates major risks of platform envelopment, extension of monopoly power and consumer exploitation. The combination of Fitbits health data with Googles other data creates unique opportunities for discrimination and exploitation of consumers in healthcare, health insurance and other sensitive areas, with major implications for privacy too. We also need to worry about incentives to pre-empt competition that could threaten Googles data collection dominance. As the consensus is now firmly that preventing bad mergers is a key tool for competition policy vis-a-vis acquisitive digital platforms, the European Commission and other authorities should be very sceptical of this deal, and realistic about their limited ability to design, impose and monitor appropriate remedies.

Googles Mission Is To Monetize the Worlds data  and Health Data Is Exceptionally Monetizable, in Ways That Can Directly Harm Consumers

Google advertises its mission as to organise the worlds information and make it universally accessible and useful  but its business practices of the last decade suggest a more accurate statement: to monetize the worlds data.

Googles playbook is by now well understood. Its history of systematic acquisitions across a vast chessboard of disparate activities, bolted onto its original Search behemoth, are unified by a common aim: to enhance and protect its unique data empire, and enable its monetization in ever-expanding applications. YouTube was acquired and, like Search, offered for free to consumers to be monetized by selling audiences to advertisers. Android was acquired and then offered for free to developers and handset manufacturers as part of a strategy to build the bridge that enabled the shift of Googles search monopoly from the desktop to mobile. Like Googles suite of popular free services (Gmail, Calendar, Maps, News, Chrome, etc.), it was not monetized directly through the sale of ads, but through the collection of consumer demographic, interest, and location data to better target the sale of ads. The acquisitions of Doubleclick and AdMob sealed Googles current monopoly in ad intermediation. In addition to these high-profile acquisitions, Google has made dozens of others, mostly under the radar of competition agencies, involving multiple complementary functionalities facilitating its mission of data collection, data analysis, and exploitation. There is a term for this  platform envelopment (Eisenmann et al. 2011): offering convenience to consumers while throttling competition. And (as the competition authorities know well) the strategy has also involved a track record of proven anticompetitive leveraging from one market into others (from Android to Shopping to adtech).1

Monetization of data has multiple aspects. As documented by the CMA, controlling access to vast audiences allows Google to charge higher advertising prices;2 and controlling access to unparalleled data about these audiences allows Google to carve them up according to demographics, interests and locations, and to auction them to the highest bidder. And because it operates on all sides of the ad tech stack, Google can infer advertisers willingness to pay and other publishers willingness to accept for audiences, and extract value from both. Unlike traditional monopolists, Googles dominance does not yield just ordinary market power: its essence is that of a discriminating monopolist present across multiple markets, capable of harming consumers through personalisation of advertising and increasingly also by enabling targeted product offerings, accompanied by a record of leveraging its power both into adjacent markets and to protect its existing dominance.

This discriminatory power, supported by Googles unmatched data, is the dimension of the proposed acquisition of Fitbit that concerns us most. The interest of Google in this deal is not in Fitbits wearable itself  but only in the wearable as a source of valuable complementary health metrics which Google can correlate with an enormous wealth of other data. Exploiting this data as a general-purpose input, and flexing its discriminatory power, is something Google has done (very profitably) for some time, and very openly, in online advertising markets. But such data has many more possible applications and Google has the incentive, ability, and track record to leverage its strength in data into many potential markets. There are known concerns around Googles role in facilitating financial scams, for example, that hurt the weak and vulnerable (Financial Times 2020a). Gathering health data that can be interacted with its existing data assets adds a whole new level of concern around using a massive informational advantage to profitably exploit consumers and put employees at risk. In particular, combining health and other data allows for personalisation of offers in fields such as insurance, health, and even employment, that is incomparable and, as we argue below, absolutely not benign or efficient. Looking beyond narrow consumer welfare, an increased vulnerability of users as employees endangers the social fabric of Europe.

There is every sign that Google has made major strides to position itself to be as strong as possible in the fabulously attractive health tech field of applications (health and life insurance, medical services, and related services). Health tech is an enormous growth area where personalised offers often do not mean primarily lower prices to good candidates, but higher prices and  critically  lower cover to others.3 This is already happening today. But what is concerning us is the prospect of Google becoming dominant in this space, uniquely combining its existing data with that gathered from Fitbit and hobbling the ability of others to compete by exploiting in various ways its Android bottleneck.

Privacy issues amplify our concerns. GDPR rules have known limitations, but privacy issues here are intimately connected with market power issues, and we cannot just look away hoping that privacy regulators will pick up the ball. The reality is that consumers dont know how their data is used and have limited control over it even when they do know. Changes in the way data is shared, paired with other data, and used  which Google would inevitably pursue  would represent a quality-adjusted price increase to consumers for the use of Googles free services (including the historical use of their services). Furthermore, unknown privacy characteristics (like knowing how data given five years ago may be used by Google today) are analogous to hidden prices in the behavioural economics literature, and suggest further economic harms.

Such harms are merger-specific not because rivals will necessarily have the incentive to offer better hidden privacy options, but because rivals simply do not have remotely comparable capabilities to analyse such data  to the detriment of consumers. This also means that a data access obligation is not an adequate remedy and may lead to more consumer harm.

It is just plain wrong to say Gmail and Chrome and Android are free. They are not free if they permit the targeting of negative goods (addictive products, financial scams, insurance exclusions), if the costs of digital advertising (estimated by the CMA at 500/household in the UK) are passed on to consumers, or if it was poorly understood that the use of a Google product implies the data collected by them may be used forever for any use whatsoever. These data practices can already be seen as an exploitative abuse of dominance. And the prospect for consumer exploitation of this kind is in our view both direct consumer harm and implies future competitive harm that is relevant to the evaluation of a Google/Fitbit merger.

Need To Look Beyond the Most Obvious Theory of Harm in Online Advertising

As widely reported in the press, Google conceded at the end of the EC Phase 1 review of this matter that to the extent there was a possible concern about the use of health data gathered from Fitbit for advertising purposes, it could accept an undertaking not to do so.

Of course we should worry about the combination of Fitbits health with Googles non-health data if this further cements Googles already dominant position in online advertising markets. Correlating such data (e.g. demographics and/or interests with heart rate and/or sleep patterns) could well be valuable to pharmaceutical or health product suppliers interested in targeted advertising, for instance, and would enable Google to extract further value from them in search advertising. This would also mean less value for rivals (in search) and less choice for advertisers (and ultimately consumer harm). This is a key chapter of Googles playbook.

But note: a promise by Google not to use Fitbit data for advertising would not conjure away all potential harm in any event. Leaving aside how such a promise could even be monitored, given Googles track record, predictions need not rely on individual/personal data: due to privacy externalities, it is enough for Google to correlate aggregate health outcomes with non-health outcomes for even a subset of Fitbit users that did not opt out from some use of using their data, to then predict health outcomes (and thus ad targeting possibilities) for all non-Fitbit users (billions of them) (Choi et al., 2019; Acemoglu et al., 2020). This implies direct harm from reduced privacy/quality to consumers, higher prices to advertisers due to greater ability to discriminate, and a substantial lessening of competition (SLC) in online advertising markets.4

Other Theories of Harm Are of Even Greater Concern

The essential concern around this deal is the way that it enables Google to implement conduct that will strengthen its ability to gather and exploit health data, and undermine the ability of rivals to do so, in order to leverage its power into health and insurance markets. This involves various combinations of strategies that are intended to expand the adoption of Fitbit over other wearables (through pricing and tying and other means) so as to enhance data collection (both health data andgeneral mobile device data); and leverage Googles control over the Android operating system  which wearable manufacturers require for tethering the wearable to users smartphones  by making their access to Android contingent on terms that restrict their ability to use data from their users (or force them to share it with Google). The harm (which is merger-specific) is the creation of additional power in health and insurance markets (among others), foreclosure of actual and potential rivals in these markets by undermining their ability to compete, and directly exploiting consumers by extracting surplus from them (in addition to exposing them to a reduction in the quality of the service by using the data in ways they do not consent to and are indeed not even not aware of).

The starting point needs to be an appreciation that health tech (the use of data and AI to finely discriminate on the basis of user profiles and health data to predict health outcomes and personalise offers) is already a $100 billion business and one that is predicted to be a major area of growth in the future.5 There is enormous money to be made by selling sophisticated analytics to health providers and insurers that enable them to identify risk and price it accordingly. A wearable is a generator of a constant stream of health-related signals that is then related to an app on users smartphones, and from there sent on to the cloud where it can be analysed. Wearables are alsoincreasingly featuring non-health apps  from maps to music  with screens becoming bigger and incorporating voice-activated commands. At present, in Android space (i.e. outside of Apples ecosystem) there are multiple significant wearable manufacturers and a large range of health analytics providers, all involved in investing and positioning for this future. The enormous potential of these applications has certainly not been lost on Google, which has already taken multiple steps to position itself as a major player in health and insurance.6 This deal has the potential to tip the scale in its favour in ways that are not retrievable given Googles other advantages, and extend its hold on sensitive and critical data into an area which touches us all. We see three potential theories:

First, Google has the incentive and ability to favour the adoption of Fitbit over rival wearables on the user side, and to simultaneously undermine the ability of others to offer competing products to insurers and health providers. The concern is (partial) foreclosure of rival wearable manufacturers, and of other operators in the supply chain that rely on data for the sale of analytics to health providers and insurers. On the user side, Google can adopt multiple strategies that would directly favour the adoption of Fitbit over rival wearables  such as selling the wearable at below-cost price because it can recoup in multiple ways elsewhere that are not replicable by others; or entering into agreements with insurers and health providers to give their customers incentives to use Fitbit in exchange for other benefits (for instance, conditioning benefits and premia to the insured adopting certain behaviours  already standard in health insurance markets). As to rival wearable manufacturers, the concern is that Google will have the incentive and ability to hobble their ability to compete in health data applications, not only by directly pushing the adoption of Fitbit with users and health providers/insurers, but also indirectly by degrading the interoperability of dominant Google-owned complements on which other manufacturers rely. Wearables manufacturers particularly rely on Android functionalities for connecting the wearable to the smartphone, and for multiple other purposes; they also need to be allowed to place their app into the Play Store. Those Android capabilities that are currently open source could be restricted in the future, post-deal, and interoperability could be degraded in multiple ways. Google could also or alternatively require compensation from rival wearables manufacturers/health data competitors in order to maintain interoperability. This compensation could take the form of demanding access to their own health data, collected from users of their wearables, or placing restrictions on rivals use of data in health applications.

Second, what is unique about this deal is that the Fitbit datastream would be bolted on top of Googles own data firehose and unrivalled stock of cumulated data on multiple aspect of users profiles. The interaction of health and non-health data can be used to make enormous profits in health and insurance markets, directly (to the extent that Google offers these services itself) or indirectly (to the extent that it sells these insights and analytics to actors in these markets). Googles dominance in non-health data, combined with health data, will enable them to uniquely identify good risks and extract surplus from them (e.g. offering them only slightly lower prices), causing higher prices or lack of cover for bad risks and, in the extreme case, market unravelling over time.

It is precisely Googles dominance in non-health data which indeed counters the efficiency gains from the entry of Google into health data markets: if non-health data like that controlled by Google were widely held and firms competed on that basis, then we could imagine competitive benefits. Instead, the entry of a dominant discriminating (data) monopolist into insurance markets will notyield price benefits to consumers in these markets; it will just extract consumers surplus. This direct consumer harm would be reinforced by an SLC as Googles non-health data advantage is durable, particularly if health data applications themselves have any factors that encourage concentration in the long run (as is likely the case in big data applications).7 Wearables providers are now on a roughly equivalent footing in that none has the non-health data that Google has; allowing Google to leverage its non-health data dominance into health data applications will cause price increases, quality reductions and direct customer harm from discrimination. This can be also purposed as an SLC as potential future competition is undermined due to Googles durable competitive advantage and (possibly) the increasing-returns structure of health data applications markets.

As an additional dimension, while we have focused so far on health data and its applications, it also is widely known that based on a consumers browsing history and app use, Google can already predict personal characteristics many users would strongly prefer to remain private.8 Combining health data with non-health data is likely to improve the ability to make such predictions (for example, using the time of night, your heart rate, and locations from multiple Android phones to predict whether you are having sex and with whom) and nothing would prevent Google from using such predictions for any application. There are already growing concerns about AI being used to inform sensitive financial services and insurance decisions; imagine it being used for employment or selective entrance decisions. We consider this an unknown future (hidden) price increase of the merger which again causes both direct consumer harm and, if profitable, an SLC in the affected markets since no other firms will have comparable non-health data.

Third, there is a clear theory of harm centred around dynamic foreclosure considerations in wearables operating systems. In addition to the value wearables may have for health data applications, they are also likely to be a particularly important market for the dynamic evolution of competition in digital markets more generally. This is because they are a potential new access point for consumers to the Internet, particularly as voice-recognition technology continues to develop. Because wearables are a potentially important new source of consumer attention, Google would have the incentive and ability to favour its Wear OS operating system for all (non-Apple) wearables in a defensive leveraging strategy: such a strategy would not only protect its current dominance in demographic, interest, and location data from a rival that developed a widely adopted wearable operating system, but could also protect Android from a potential entrant into mobile device (smartphone and tablet) operating systems.9 Foreclosure strategies are particularly likely to be effective in operating system markets, as they exhibit network effects and are likely to tip to a small number of providers (as they have done for mobile phones with iOS and Android).10 The analogy to the Microsoft/Netscape case is clear: accounting for the likely dynamic evolution of the wearables market, this isnt just a merger of complements!

Evidence for These Theories of Harm

Competition authorities are of course best placed to directly interrogate Googles internal documents and probe the evidence of third-party wearable manufacturers, health data providers, and other actors in the supply chain concerned by this merger. While we do not have direct evidence to offer, we would nonetheless point to two important dimensions.

First, it is unquestionable that health tech is recognised as a major area of future application for data and AI, in which there are enormous profits to be made. Personalisation is acknowledged as the future of the health care industry and it is already present and growing in the insurance industry. The wearable devices market alone is projected to grow to over one billion connected devices by 2022.11 But the wearables market is not the real prize. And it does not matter that Fitbit is currently a small piece of this market; it is valuable because it provides Google with a toehold in wearables from which to leverage a more ambitious strategy of expanding in the giant potential of health tech  combining sensitive health data with the personal profiles of users collated from other services.

Google has indeed taken multiple steps already to position itself in this massive growth area: it established Google Health (a repository of health records and data intent on developing a specific search engine for medical records), it established Project Nightingale (a secretive joint project by Google Cloud and Ascension, a large private healthcare system in the US, which collates enormous medical records on millions of citizens), it acquired Deepmind (health data analytics), it partnered with Mayo Clinic and other hospitals and healthcare providers to view and analyse millions of patient records, and it owns subsidiaries Verily and Calico with a focus on research in life sciences and health and wellbeing.12 Indeed Verily just announced that that it will begin itself to offer insurance (Peters, 2020). Billions have been invested by Googles venture capital arm, GV, in health care and life sciences. The combination of these assets with Googles cloud power and AI already make abundantly clear that this should be one of the main focuses of the assessment of this deal. Fitbit is one more essential piece in this puzzle: it provides the capability of harvesting health data directly, and at the same time of undermining rivals progress (not necessarily Apples, but owning the space of manufacturers that must connect to Android mobile devices would be good enough). There can be little doubt that the opportunity available in health tech dwarfs the size of the wearables market.

Second, inspired directly by this deal, academic research is beginning to emerge offering analytical support to the concerns we have outlined here. As briefly mentioned above, a new paper by Chen et al. (2020) models the effects of a data-driven merger between two firms respectively operating in a market A for data applications (health care) and a market B for data collection (wearables).13 There are cross-market complementarities in that the data generated in market B can be used in market A for personalisation of offers that match better with consumers tastes. However, the extra consumer surplus created by such personalisation can be extracted by the merged entity through personalised pricing (price discrimination). A merger between firms operating in each market creates a merged firm C with market power, and the authors identify two anticompetitive effects from personalisation: exploitation of consumers through extraction of consumer surplus above the outside option, and market foreclosure as the merged entity is secured a large base of non-contestable consumers under personalisation and will compete aggressively for contestable consumers. While there may be some circumstances in which the benefit of more aggressive competition for consumers can offset the harm and total surplus can increase, this competition-intensifying effect is a by-product of market foreclosure, which could ultimately harm consumers in the long run. Moreover, Chen et al. found that the merger would link the market for wearables and the market for health care together, through which Google could leverage its market power and foreclose competitors in both markets. This directly formalises some of the types of effects we are describing, and this contribution is important as it illustrates that these concerns can be also formally articulated.

Furthermore, the negative effects formalised in Chen et al. (2020) arise in a model in which superior data does not allow firms to better predict a consumers risk class, and in which consumers and firms are equally good at predicting likely future health problems. Following the merger, however, it may be often the case that Google/Fitbit can better predict what diseases a consumer is likely to develop than the consumer herself. Google/Fitbit could use this information to the further detriment of consumers by selling the information about which consumers have the lowest risks of developing costly health conditions. This would cause the deterioration of the functioning of health insurance markets as competitors will tend to face worse risks on average, and hence offer worse deals (enabling Google to collect even more money from its information advantage). And, since selecting a health insurance plan is extremely difficult and a large body of existing academic work documents that consumers make a number of mistakes when doing so (Chandra et al., 2019), a more realistic consumer model should allow for limited attention of or mistakes by consumers. In such a case, Google/Fitbit is likely to enable insurance companies to exploit their informational advantage over consumers through offering personalised contracts that exclude exactly those costly services that the consumer will need with higher than average probability. Such exploitative tricks will likely further deteriorate the functioning of insurance markets to the detriment of consumers and competition.

Some Reflections on Remedies

A decision to block the merger would preserve the current playing field among wearable manufacturers and health data providers and protect consumers from exploitation and a reduction in competition due to the combination of non-health with sensitive health data.

We acknowledge that a prohibition, and even remedies, may well imply that certain innovations by Google are foregone as a result. We recognise of course that mergers involving data can have beneficial effects, as firms can better tailor their products and personalise their offerings and can foster data-driven innovation by the merging parties. But Google is not just anyone. It is arguably dominant in non-health data as well as multiple related product markets and has a track record of leveraging that dominance. Putting a break on Googles ambitions in this space is, in our view, the price one should be willing to pay for the prospect of more innovation over time from others (as well as less consumer exploitation). Authorities have dealt with these tradeoffs before  from the original Microsoft case, where Microsofts argument was that any intervention would amount to expropriation of its IP and was going to kill all innovation. The reality is that competitiondrives innovation in most settings.14 This is the view the European Commission has taken in multiple mergers too (Dow/Dupont to quote but one), where the loss of future competition and innovation was a material concern.

The difficulty of designing a suitable package of remedies becomes apparent once one starts to think of what solutions could be adopted and whether they would work. Press reports indicate that the Commission is poised to approve the deal subject to remedies, the most important of which include (1) a promise not to use Fitbits health data for online advertising for ten years; (2) a requirement granting other wearable manufacturers access to Fitbits health data (subject to user consent), on the same terms as Google; and (3) a commitment that rival wearable manufacturers would not be hindered from using Googles Android and cloud platforms (Financial Times 2020b).

Based on our review of likely consumer harms from the transaction, short of a prohibition we see the need for remedies that are both extensive and detailed, with a big question mark over the scope for circumvention and how they would be policed in practice. For example, to address the exploitation theories of harm described above, minimal commitments should include:

Data use restrictions (not just data silos) (a) preventing the combination of health data with any characterisation of Googles non-health data for use in online advertising, but also (b) requiring that Googles existing non-health data is only used for online advertising unrelated to health products and services, employment, and any other product or services for which there are particularly strong concerns about consumer exploitation and/or market unravelling (e.g. financial services). While a (weak) version of this commitment appears to have been offered by Google, much detail would need to be worked through to make it meaningful and to avoid circumvention. A sector regulator (not in existence) or a trustee would likely be needed to constantly monitor ongoing compliance.

While a (weak) version of this commitment appears to have been offered by Google, much detail would need to be worked through to make it meaningful and to avoid circumvention. A sector regulator (not in existence) or a trustee would likely be needed to constantly monitor ongoing compliance. Data use restrictions (c) preventing the combination of health data with any characterisation of Googles non-health data in health data and insurance markets, but also (d) requiring that Google can only use Fitbit data for health data and insurance applications . We do not see this in the list of remedies for consideration at present. Such a restriction would prohibit Google from using health data together with non-health data to sell  directly or indirectly  risk profiles to insurance companies or offer health or other types of insurance itself. In effect, this would impose an inverse-HIPAA protection on Googles non-health data and say that it may not be used for health data applications. 15 Furthermore, if health data were permitted to be used by itself in insurance markets, a requirement should be set that it not be used to exclude components of coverage that consumers may value (e.g. based on predictions of future illness). Again, data use restrictions would require monitoring and, thus, a sector regulator with the power to immediately intervene.

. We do not see this in the list of remedies for consideration at present. Such a restriction would prohibit Google from using health data together with non-health data to sell  directly or indirectly  risk profiles to insurance companies or offer health or other types of insurance itself. In effect, this would impose an inverse-HIPAA protection on Googles non-health data and say that it may not be used for health data applications. Furthermore, if health data were permitted to be used by itself in insurance markets, a requirement should be set that it not be used to exclude components of coverage that consumers may value (e.g. based on predictions of future illness). Again, data use restrictions would require monitoring and, thus, a sector regulator with the power to immediately intervene. Require consumer-friendly privacy practices. Many of the exploitation harms we are concerned about could be partially mediated by granting consumers much greater control over the use of their data. Examples here would include (but need not be limited to) (e) mandating the ability of consumers to opt out of targeted advertising, (f) mandating the ability of consumers to opt out of targeted insurance, (g) mandating that Google provide consumers the right to be forgotten across all non-health and health data, and (h) mandating consumers be asked (e), (f), and (g) on a regular (e.g. annual) basis with privacy-friendly defaults. For example, the default consumer privacy setting should be that data is not used for targeting advertisements or health offers, and that use of a service is not conditioned on the choice. Google should furthermore be required to document that consumers were making an informed choice with respect to targeting.

To address the foreclosure theories of harm described above, it is very hard to enumerate all the many ways Google could foreclose rival wearable manufacturers and/or rival wearable operating systems. Two general principles should be that Google should be forbidden from agreeing to exclusive deals in any market which impacts the wearables or wearable operating systems markets, and to require interoperability on FRAND terms equivalent to that which Google grants its own services in related markets.16 Minimal commitments that embody these principles include (but need not be limited to):

Interoperability and FRAND access not only to Android and Google Cloud APIs, but to APIs for all Google products and services for which Google has a more than minimal market share (e.g. Play Store, Maps, Calendar, Chrome, etc.). This commitment seeks to prevent Google from leveraging their dominance in one of its many related product markets into the wearables market. It is probably feasible to formulate this as there are precedents: one could mandate comparable interoperability between rivals OS and all Googles dominant apps as Google has with its own Wear OS. However, absent remedies on data use described above, this appears unlikely to prevent Google from leveraging its dominant position in non-health data into the market for wearables and, more importantly, associated health data markets.

The next commitments seek to prevent some of the many ways that Google may seek to distort competition in the wearables and/or wearables operating system markets. Each practice would give Google an advantage in both the wearables (and thus health data) and wearables operating system (and thus health and non-health data) markets. Minimal commitments include (but need not be limited to):

Prohibition of below-cost pricing for wearables. This commitment would be very difficult to monitor given the difficulties of calculating the relevant cost. Also, it would not necessarily be effective since even marginal cost pricing (or low margins) can also endanger competitors that face fixed costs for their investments in quality.

This commitment would be very difficult to monitor given the difficulties of calculating the relevant cost. Also, it would not necessarily be effective since even marginal cost pricing (or low margins) can also endanger competitors that face fixed costs for their investments in quality. Prohibition of tying strategies involving Fitbit and insurers/health providers  for instance, prohibiting Google from offering deals to insurance companies or healthcare providers conditional on them pushing Fitbit onto their customers or patients. Again, the difficulties of monitoring this commitment seem enormous. Tying is a major part of Googles playbook and circumvention of a prohibition is always somehow possible (see, for example, Googles response to the Android remedies).

 for instance, prohibiting Google from offering deals to insurance companies or healthcare providers conditional on them pushing Fitbit onto their customers or patients. Again, the difficulties of monitoring this commitment seem enormous. Tying is a major part of Googles playbook and circumvention of a prohibition is always somehow possible (see, for example, Googles response to the Android remedies). Prohibition of exclusive deals with major rival wearable manufacturers that disadvantage rival wearable OS providers (a la Apple and Google Search). This has the advantage of being feasible and easily monitorable.

Conclusion

The Google/Fitbit merger provides the chance for the European Commission to remain a front runner in enforcement and indeed guide merger policy in the digital era. While some remedies are conceivable that can mitigate the risks to competition and long-run consumer harm, they are complex, at risk of circumvention in multiple dimensions, and will continue to require constant monitoring. This cannot be the preferred road to take even if a proper regulatory structure were already in place. The ex-post consequences of failing to prevent a harmful combination in digital markets have been documented time and time again, and there is a widely held consensus that given the difficulties of unscrambling the eggs over time, the only principled approach to merger control in this space is to prevent harmful mergers from being consummated. All too often, academics and policymakers look back and lament a failure to intervene more decisively, and bemoan their hopeful reliance on remedies that just do not work. As we have argued, the acquisition of Fitbit is not just about one more gadget being brought into Googles ecosystem, but one involving highly sensitive data that is likely to harm consumers in health insurance, medical services and even labour markets and protect Googles dominant position in demographic, interest, and location data. Blocking the merger does not solve all problems related to health data, but it avoids amplifying already existing problems. A bad merger with bad remedies remains a bad merger for society.

Authors note: None of the authors is consulting for any party involved in this transaction, and none has taken payment from any party in connection to this Policy Insight. Current or recent consulting clients on matters unrelated to Google-Fitbit for those authors with such clients are ETNO (for Bourreau), Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, and multiple other firms not in the technology sector (Caffarra), Apple (Crawford), several competition authorities (Duso), clients not in the technology sector (Genakos), a competition authority and clients not in the technology sector (Heidhues), several competition authorities and a client not in the technology sector (Peitz), and a software company involved in an antitrust complaint and suppliers not active in technology markets (Verge). A party in the Google-Fitbit matter adverse to Google is a client of CRA, but not of Caffarra. This column has also been published as CEPR Policy Insight No. 107.

Endnotes 1 See European Commission (2017, 2018), CMA (2020) and multiple others. 2 CMA (2020) reports that Google commands prices for search keywords 30-40% higher than that earned by Bing, and that they earn a return on capital in excess of 40%. 3 Furthermore, acknowledging that consumers have limited attention or ability to foresee future medical conditions, Google would have an incentive to use its superior knowledge to sell or enable others to sell secretly degraded insurance options whose coverage exempts medical conditions likely to be important for the consumer (Day and Nadash, 2012). In addition to direct consumer harm, this has the potential to significantly harm the functioning of health insurance markets, with similar concerns arising in other applications. 4 Note that the last two effects are distinct: the SLC is an increase in market power, and the discrimination is a more efficient exercise of an existing level of market power. 5 See Appendix C in Chen et al. (2020) for a concise summary of Big Data Analytics (BDA) and personalisation in health care. They show there, for example, that almost 50% of insurance providers already use BDA for pricing and underwriting and that this will grow to 70% in the next three years. 6 See Appendix B in Chen et al. (2020). 7 As motivated by Chen et. al. (2020), it is common in big data for there to be a positive feedback loop: firms with larger/more comprehensive data sets can offer better-targeted products thanks to data-enabled learning, attracting more customers, and accumulating ever more data. 8 See, for example, Ryan (2020). The submission documents that advertisers may search for people who regularly visit websites related to Substance abuse, Diabetes, and Chronic pain. Data brokers further allow targeting based on a host of other intimate details, including religious beliefs. 9 It would also serve as an offensive leveraging strategy to collect health data from wearables manufactured by rivals. 10 These points have been made across a host of reports analyzing the status of competition policy (including merger review) in digital markets, including ACCC (2019), HM Treasury (2019), Cremer et al. (2019), and Stigler Committee on Digital Platforms (2019). 11 https://www.statista.com/statistics/490231/wearable-devices-worldwide-by-region/ 12 See again Appendix B of Chen et al. (2020) for a concise summary of Googles ambitions in health care. 13 Op cit. 14 See, among many, Federico et al. (2019). In an empirical investigation, it has been found that app developers reduce innovation efforts and increase prices of apps threatened by entry from Google (Wen and Zhu, 2019). 15 In the US, HIPAA is a 1996 law establishing standards to protect sensitive patient information. Among other things, it limits the use of patients protected health information for treatment, payment, and healthcare operations. 16 FRAND = fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory. FRAND terms and conditions are commonly used in regulatory and antitrust environments.

See original post for references
LANSING  Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel joined 16 other attorneys general to defend a Texas county clerks decision to send mail-in voting applications to registered voters ahead of the November election. The State of Texas is suing to block the county clerk from mailing the applications, claiming that he does not have the authority to make such a decision and that the mailers will confuse ineligible voters into voting by mail.

In a friend-of-the-court brief filed in Texas v. Hollins in the Texas Supreme Court, the coalition argues that local election officials require the ability to tailor their election rules to protect voter participation and the health and safety of residents during the COVID-19 pandemic. The brief also argues that there is no evidence that voting by maillet alone sending mail-in voting applications to registered votersresults in widespread fraud.

"All Americans who are eligible deserve to perform their civic duty safely this year as we continue to navigate through the pandemic, said Nessel. For this reason, clerks across this nation are doing all they can within the confines of the law to simultaneously protect voters and our democracy. Ensuring all voters  regardless of party affiliation or who they vote for  are informed and have the tools necessary to vote in November shouldnt be a matter of contention.

Here in Michigan, the Attorney Generals office recently defended Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson for lawfully sending out unsolicited absentee voter ballot applications to registered voters. The Michigan Court of Appeals affirmed a lower courts ruling that state law and the Michigan Constitution allow Secretary Benson to distribute applications in the manner that she did.

Election experts project that voter turnout in the general election this November could be the highest in over a century. At the same time, however, according to one study, 49 percent of U.S. registered voters expect to face difficulties casting a ballot due to the coronavirus outbreak. As a result, states across the country have modified their election procedures to protect both voter participation and the health of voters and election workers.

On Aug. 25, 2020, Chris Hollins, the Harris County Clerk, stated that his office would mail every registered voter in the county an application to vote by mail in the November election. The mailer would clearly outline the categories of voters who are eligible to vote by mail. The State of Texas filed for a temporary injunction to block this vote-by-mail outreach, claiming that Hollins did not have the authority to make such a decision and that it would confuse recipients into committing voter fraud since only certain voters are eligible to vote by mail. The trial court denied Texass motion for a temporary injunction, and the Court of Appeals affirmed. The State has appealed to the Texas Supreme Court.

In the amicus brief, the coalition supports the Harris County Clerks plan to send vote-by-mail applications to registered voters because:
Girls on the Run inspires girls to be joyful, healthy and confident.

Girls on the Run inspires girls to be joyful, healthy and confident.

Charlotte, NC, Oct. 01, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, Girls on the Run International (GOTRI) announced the establishment of its inaugural IDEA Commission to support inclusion, diversity, equity and access across the national nonprofit organization. GOTRI designs programming that strengthens third- to eighth-grade girls social, emotional, physical, and behavioral skills to successfully navigate life experiences. More than 2 million girls have participated in the program since it launched 24 years ago.

This commission will help us deliver on our commitment to be a place where all people feel welcome, worthy and empowered, said Elizabeth Kunz, CEO of Girls on the Run International. Staff and volunteer leaders from throughout our organization were intentionally selected to ensure a wide range of perspectives and experiences are brought to the meaningful work of advancing inclusion, diversity, equity and access at Girls on the Run.

The commission will be led by Juliellen Simpson-Vos, vice president of council development at GOTRI, and Ivory Patten, legal manager at GOTRI. Elizabeth Kunz, CEO, will serve on the committee to assist in strategic guidance and oversee organizational commitment. The following individuals will be serving on the IDEA Commission and developing the organizations national IDEA vision and strategy:

Mollie Anderson, Chicago, Illinois

Melida Barbosa, New York, New York

Kathleen Cannon, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Rakesh Gopalan, Charlotte, North Carolina

Tenika Hill, Riverside, California

Erica Hernandez, San Francisco, California

Rachel de Jesus, Flagstaff, Arizona

Hao Le, San Jose, California

Sonal Modisette, Seattle, Washington

Jennifer Passey, Fairfax, Virginia

Kaityre Pinder, Atlanta, Georgia

Meg Pomerantz, Durham, North Carolina

Elena Simpkins, Ann Arbor, Michigan

Megan Wolfe, Mountlake Terrace, Washington

The IDEA Commission will oversee seven subcommittees created to inform, deepen and articulate the activities and outcomes of the Commission. To learn more about the organizations ongoing commitment to IDEA, please visit https://www.girlsontherun.org/inclusion-diversity/

Story continues

ABOUT GIRLS ON THE RUN INTERNATIONAL Girls on the Run International designs programming that strengthens third- to eighth-grade girls social, emotional, physical, and behavioral skills to successfully navigate life experiences. Each year, more than 200,000 girls ages eight to 13 participate in communities in 50 states and Washington DC. More than 2 million girls have participated in the program since it launched in 1996. The curriculum reaches girls at a critical stage, strengthening their confidence at a time when society begins to tell them they cant. Underscoring the important connection between physical and emotional health, the program addresses the whole girl when she needs it the most. Results show GOTRI programs inspire and empower girls to build healthy physical and mental habits that last long beyond the program. According to a longitudinal study conducted by The University of Minnesota, 97% of Girls on the Run participants said they learn critical life skills including resolving conflict, helping others or making intentional decisions; and 94% of parents reported it was a valuable experience for their girl. To learn more about this international non-profit, visit www.girlsontherun.org.

Attachment

CONTACT: Deborah Pleva Girls On the Run International deb.pleva@girlsontherun.org




Check the story of harsh times for a golden ghetto news outlet that made a big deal of low rent forums that aren't so important to politicos amid the ongoing pandemic . . .

The upshot: JoCo politicos forgo their meetings with a suburban news outlet.

Behind the scenes . . . Coronavirus killed the advertising game for publishers and digital subscriptions have increased but FAILED to pick up revenue decline.



Meanwhile, our conservative pals have always tried to convince us that Democracy works just fine without the media . . .



Read more:


To mark five years since Russia intervened in the war in Syria, the Syrian Network for Human Rights have released a report, documenting their crimes writes Alsouria Net.

The Syrian Network for Human Rights (SNHR) issued a report documenting Russias violations in Syria, after five years of Russian military intervention and support for the Assad regime.

The SNHR report, issued on Wednesday, stated that Russian forces are responsible for killing 6,589 civilians in Syria, including 2,005 children and 969 women, most of whom were killed during the military operations in Aleppo, Idleb, and Deir ez-Zor.

The report recorded no less than 354 massacres committed by Russian forces and at least 1,217 attacks on vital populated spots, including 222 schools and 207 medical facilities, which resulted in the killing of 69 medical personnel and 42 civil defense personnel, in addition to 22 media personnel.

The report documented Russias use of internationally banned cluster munitions in 236 attacks, and its use of incendiary weapons in 125 attacks, between Sept. 30, 2015 and Sept. 30, 2020 (the timeframe of Russian military intervention in Syria).

In its report, SNHR considered that Russia, has always justified its intervention in Syria by saying that it came at the request of the Syrian regime, which controls the Syrian state. However, the report made it clear that, this is just legal deception, as there are human rights requirements for the validity of military intervention, which are all unfulfilled in the Syrian example.

On Sept. 30, 2015, Russia announced its military intervention for the first time and its siding with the Assad regime against the opposition factions, which were controlling large swaths of Syrian territory at the time. Back then, Russia was able to turn the balance in favor of the regime.

The Syria Response Coordination Group team issued a report on Wednesday, on the occasion of the five-year anniversary of the Russian military intervention in Syria, in which it indicated that Russias support for the regime has resulted in thousands of civilian casualties, the displacement of millions of Syrians, a scorched-earth policy, subsequent demographic change, and systematic forced displacement.

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.
A team of Election Commission officials visited Patna to take stock of poll preparations on Wednesday, ahead of the Bihar Assembly election.

The EC team has also asked for suggestions from all political parties and individual candidates about each and every constituency and polling booth in Bihar.

The representatives of various parties have submitted their suggestions to the team.

Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) Bihar unit has pointed out that the state has many places adjacent to rivers like Ganga, Sone, Gandak, Bagmati, Kamla Balan, Kosi, Burhi Gandak and others.

"As those places are surrounded by sand, reaching those places is extremely difficult for police of respective areas. In last few elections, we have observed that money and other illegal items are transported through boats and distributed among voters. Hence, we have demanded patrolling through horse riders, two days before the day of polling. Election Commission must also ensure flag march of paramilitary forces 24 hours before polling," said Radhika Raman, convener of BJP election cell.

"We have demanded installation of CCTV cameras at every polling booth to prevent rigging," she said.

"We have also urged EC to clarify polling arrangement in Covid containment zones. In a bid to follow social distancing, we have urged 15 vehicles in a convoy of every candidate for poll campaign. The EC has allowed only 5 vehicles," Raman said.

15 vehicles could be tricky for EC as candidates could misuse it. Monitoring the activities of individual candidates could be a difficult task for the commission especially in remote areas. Bihar is spread over 94,163 sq kms with 38 districts and 243 constituencies.

Since the Bihar Assembly election is to be held in the middle of the Covid-19 pandemic, the opposition RJD has demanded insurance for every voter.

"We have demanded adequate medical arrangements at every polling booth with distribution of face masks and voter slips to voters," said Chitranjan Gagan, state spokesperson of RJD.

"We have also urged EC to install polling booths in the places where SC, ST, OBC and minority people are in majority. The idea is to avoid being influenced by other persons," Gagan said.

--IANS

ajk/kr

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Xi Jinpings pledge that China will reach carbon neutrality before 2060 is a game changer. While China still needs to get there faster and do more in the short term, for the first time, the worlds largest emitter has a long-term trajectory for decarbonisation. Scientists have calculated this alone will shave up to 0.3 degrees off projected global temperature increases this century.

While a big producer of coal-fired power plants, China is also the world's largest producer of renewable energy plants, including solar farms. Credit:AP

Xis announcement came less than 48 hours after Scott Morrison refused to set a deadline for Australia to make the same transition, but has received remarkably little attention domestically. The fact is Xis announcement leaves Australia not just diplomatically isolated, but also economically vulnerable.

According to the Investor Group on Climate Change, 40 per cent of Australias trade is now with countries that will reach net-zero emissions around the middle of the century. If Joe Biden becomes the next US president, this figure jumps to more than 50 per cent. A Biden presidency would also mean the worlds three largest economies and more than 120 countries have set a pathway to decarbonisation.

Xis announcement came exactly one year after Morrison called for China to take on the responsibilities of a developed country on issues such as climate change. By some measures, China is now not only doing more than Australia, it is doing a lot more. This includes Xis separate confirmation last week that China will at least enhance its existing 2030 emissions target under the Paris Agreement which Australia refuses to do  even though the extent to which it does so remains an open question.


People around the world have been reacting to the debate between the two main candidates for president in the United States.

President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden met Tuesday night in Cleveland, Ohio, for the first of three planned debates.

Many people overseas were critical of the language the candidates used during the 90-minute-long event. The two men insulted each other with name-calling and personal attacks.

Speaking to Biden, Trump said, Ive done more things in 47 months [as president] than youve done in 47 years as a U.S. senator and vice president under former President Barack Obama.

Biden described Trump as the worst president America has ever had. Several times, the former vice president called him a clown.

The Associated Press reports that the candidates comments and actions could have a big effect on Americas international image.

Observers from Asia and Australia to Europe and Africa looked for possible effects on financial markets.

Michael Hewson is chief market expert at investment service CMC Markets UK.

If last nights presidential debate was supposed to inform and educate, he wrote, all it did was merely confirm the credibility deficit in U.S. politics. Hewson accused the candidates of taking part in what can only be described as a fact-free, name-calling contest.

A highly divided and possibly legally contested U.S. election is coming, warned Stephen Innes of AxiCorp, a foreign exchange trading services provider based in Sydney, Australia.

With mail-in votes likely to be too high (and possibly questioned), there is a chance that we still will not know the result by Inauguration Day, he said.

By law, the winner of the election is to be sworn in on January 20. Innes warned of a possible constitutional crisis if the election results are questioned or delayed.

In Europe and Africa, people awoke Wednesday to news reports on the debate.

The comments Ive seen from various European press is basically: Im happy Im not an American voter this year. Its just a mess, said Jussi Hanhimaki. He serves as a professor of International History at the Graduate Institute in Geneva in Switzerland.

On Twitter, Kenyan commentator Patrick Gathara noted: This debate would be sheer comedy if it wasnt such a pitiful and tragic advertisement for U.S. dysfunction.



World leaders react to the debate

On Facebook, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen criticized all the time spent on arguments at the debate Tuesday night. Fortunately, this is not the case in Denmark. And I never hope it will be like that, she wrote.

Other leaders followed the debate, but kept their distance from American politics. Steffan Seibert is spokesman for German Chancellor Angela Merkel. He said Merkel was informed about what took place last night. But he refused to comment.

In Russia, a spokesman for President Vladimir Putin said he would not comment on the debate because it might be thought of as an attempt to interfere. The Russian Federation has never interfered in the internal affairs of the United States and never will, he said.

Walter Veltroni writes opinion pieces for Italys Corriere della Sera newspaper. Veltroni, a former mayor of Rome, says he has seen every U.S. presidential debate since 1960.

I have never witnessed a spectacle similar to the one last night, he wrote on Wednesday. He said the debate showed how there are two Americas that appear unable to exist together without conflict.

Hu Xijin, editor of Chinas Communist Party newspaper Global Times, noted the personal attacks and insults made by the two candidates. He wrote that the debate was a sign of Americas overarching division.

I used to(like) this kind of televised debate in American politics, but I have much more mixed feelings when watch[ing] it again now, Hu wrote. The Global Times often criticizes American policies.

Foreign policy issues were largely missing from the debate. However, Trump did blame China for the coronavirus health crisis, which has killed more than 1 million people worldwide. He also accused China of paying Bidens son Hunter to provide advice. Joe Biden attacked Trumps trade deals with China for failing to help Americans.

Im Mario Ritter, Jr.

The Associated Press reported this story. George Grow adapted it for VOA Learning English. Ashley Thompson was the editor.

_________________________________________________

Words in This Story

clown  n. a foolish person; a joker

merely  adj. just or only

contest  n. a competition; a struggle or conflict

mess  n. disorder or when things are out of place

transfer  n. movement from one place to another

sheer  adj. complete and total

comedy  n. a show with jokes or funny situations

dysfunction  n. limited or less than full operation

spectacle  n. something unusual or notable; a special show

overarching  adj. something that affects everyone or everything

advantage  n. a condition that puts you in an improved or better position

pitiful  adj. causing feelings of dislike or disgust by not being enough or not being good enough

fortunately  adv. used to say that something good or lucky has happened

internal affairs adj. issues existing or taking place within a country

We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section, and visit our Facebook page.
(Newser)  It's "soul-searching" time for Chris Wallace. The Fox News Sunday anchor admits he struggled to moderate last night's presidential debatea contentious affair that one pundit called "two old men shouting at each other"but he isn't apologizing or taking all the blame. "I've read some of the reviews. I know people think, well, gee, I didn't jump in soon enough," Wallace tells the New York Times in a voice still hoarse from the debate. "I guess I didn't realizeand there was no way you could, hindsight being 20/20that this was going to be the president's strategy, not just for the beginning of the debate but the entire debate." For more:

story continues below

"I thought this was greatthis is a debate!" Wallace says of the moment when President Trump first spoke straight to Joe Biden. But as Trump kept interrupting, Wallace got worried. Then came "desperation." He says he "never dreamt that it would go off the tracks the way it did."

"You're reluctantas somebody who has said from the very beginning that I wanted to be as invisible as possible, and to enable them to talkto rise to the point at which you begin to interject more and more. First to say, 'Please dont interrupt,' then 'Please obey the rules,' and third, 'This isn't serving the country well.'"

Should the president's microphone be cut off if he interrupts next time? "People have to remember, and too many people forget, both of these candidates have the support of tens of millions of Americans."

"Generally speaking, I did as well as I could, so I don't have any second thoughts there. I'm just disappointed with the results."

"To quote the president, 'It is what it is.'"

(The Commission on Presidential Debates is mulling changes for the next debate .)
NEW YORK - It may not rate as an international scandal, but the death of a Yorkshire terrier in U.S. custody is fueling a messy legal battle over the importation of a group of purebred canines imported from Russia.

The dog died in September at a private facility at New Yorks Kennedy Airport used to hold animals from overseas that are denied entry to the U.S. by federal officials. The news was heartbreaking for a woman who says she was the owner-in-waiting for the female Yorkie.

Its been really, really rough for me to deal with her death, Rachel Hobbs, of Dayton, Ohio, said in a recent interview.

The Yorkie, named Uti-Puti Knopochka, was among 11 dogs  including three Dobermans, a Dalmation and a golden retriever  flown into the country from Moscow via courier on Sept. 8. They were quarantined after they didnt clear customs, with federal agents claiming they didnt have the proper paperwork for rabies vaccinations and accusing the courier of smuggling two dogs in carry-on luggage.

The courier and the buyers of the dogs insist the papers were in order and have sued in federal court to get them released to the people claiming they are the rightful owners. After the government argued on a Sept. 18 telephone conference that the dogs should be sent back to Russia, U.S. District Judge Frederic Block put off a decision on their fate.

Make sure no harm comes to them until I sort all this out, Block said at the time.

Three days later, prosecutors wrote a letter to the judge saying Uti-Puti had unfortunately passed away.

The standoff has left the buyers, some of whom paid breeders thousands of dollars, in distress and the dogs in limbo. Hobbs said that while deciding on her purchase for an emotional support dog, the breeder in Belarus sent videos and photos of the Yorkie wearing hair ribbons that got her hooked.

I fell in love with her, she said.

Hobbs still had hopes of bringing the Yorkie home until word came from the animal quarantine facility, known as The ARK at JFK, that the dog had died. A necropsy found that the dog tested positive for the highly contagious canine parvovirus. A second Yorkie named Wonderful Baby Blue Diamond was under the care of a veterinary clinic suffering from an intestinal illness, according to court papers filed this week.

The plaintiffs in the lawsuit are now claiming they were kept in the dark about the condition of the dogs at The Ark, calling it a disease-ridden facility. They also say the dogs were unnecessarily revaccinated for rabies without the owners permission.

The rabies vaccinations mean the dogs must remain at The ARK for another 28-day quarantine period before the question of whether they can legally enter the country or not is finally settled, prosecutors said. The owners call that unfair, in part because they say theyre being threatened with having to pay $250 a day per dog for their care.

The question of who is responsible for any of these charges rests upon whether the seizure was reasonable and constitutional, the plaintiffs say in court papers.

Officials at The Ark have weighed in as well, complaining to the court that the case is harming its reputation as a state-of-the art, multi-million dollar, climate-controlled facility that offers first-rate animal care. The organization is still waiting to get paid for providing valuable service for U.S. citizens and dogs even though it had no role in the smuggling of dogs or their counterfeit papers, lawyers wrote in a court filing.

Hobbs says all the wrangling only serves as a cruel reminder of the unnecessary death of the Yorkie she planned to rename Pixie once settled in Dayton.

Theres no reason she had to die, she said.
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Ivanka Trump traveled to Central Florida on Wednesday, stopping at the Asian Pacific Americans for Trump office in Orlando, before a 'fireside chat' staged for Trump supporters.

The 38-year-old, one of the most poised and diplomatic members of the Trump campaign, wore a face mask throughout the majority of her visit.

Arriving at the Asian Pacific Americans for Trump campaign headquarters, in the Pine Hills district of the city, she thanked the several dozen assembled activists for their work.

She said millions like them gave 'their time, their energy, their resources - because they know what's at stake.'

Ivanka Trump traveled to Florida on Wednesday, campaigning in Orlando on behalf of her father

The 38-year-old's first stop was the Asian Pacific Americans for Trump office in the Pine Hills district of Orlando

Ivanka Trump met with many of the volunteers and thanked them for all their work on her father's behalf

Everyone inside the Orlando campaign center appeared to be wearing face masks, in contrast to her father's rallies

Thuy Lowe, who guided her around the room, said the volunteers included many Vietnamese Americans who have never voted before despite living in the U.S. for nearly 50 years.

'They may not speak English very well, but they understand that they're coming to register to vote for the first time because of President Trump,' Lowe said, according to the Orlando Sentinel.

Ivanka then signed the wall at the back of the small office - following in the footsteps of her brother Eric, who two weeks ago did the same thing.

The first daughter then crossed town to the Citrus Club, a private member's club on the 18th floor of a tower in downtown Orlando.

Ivanka was welcomed to the site and told that those campaigning would ensure her father won four more years

Ivanka signed her name on their supporters' wall, next to that of her brother Eric Trump, who visited two weeks earlier

Ivanka was interviewed on stage by Mercades Schlapp, who served as the White House Director of Strategic Communications until 2019, and is now employed by the re-election campaign.

Schlapp, who is from Miami, asked Ivanka what she thought were the president's greatest accomplishments in the last four years.

Ivanka said she believed his most important achievements included moving the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem, tax cuts, de-regulation and paid family leave.

'As he likes to say, he's kept more promises than he's made, which is actually true,' she said.

Ivanka refused to address the chaotic debate of Tuesday night, and nor did she respond when Schlapp mentioned Biden several times.

Instead, Ivanka preferred to speak about the economy, saying the country's business outlook was 'amazing' in January, before the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

'When the president's policies started really kicking in, renegotiating trade deals, tax reform, tax cuts, energy independence - the economy started just soaring,' she said.

After 'this plague descended on us,' she cited the Small Business Administration's Paycheck Protection Program in the CARES Act as a major help for small businesses in the state.

'In 14 days, two weeks, the SBA issued more loans than in the 14 years prior,' she said.

'So it's extraordinary. And bring it back down to the state level, that in Florida alone protected 3.2 million jobs of people employed by close to a half a million small businesses here in the state.'

Ivanka Trump then went on to downtown Orlando, where she was interviewed on stage by Mercedes Schlapp

Ivanka Trump beamed as she took off her face mask when approaching the stage, having worn it for her prior event

The Citrus Club, a private member's club on the 18th floor of a tower in downtown Orlando, served as the venue

Ivanka did not discuss Biden, or the previous night's fiery debate - preferring to emphasize the administration's achievements

The day before her visit, Disney announced the loss of 28,000 jobs in its theme parks - a tough blow to the resort city.

Disneys theme parks in California and Florida employed roughly 110,000 people before the pandemic. The job cuts will come from both resorts.

Asked why the Trumps got involved in government, she said: 'This country has given so much to our family. And the opportunity to give back is a privilege.'

She left immediately after the discussion with Schlapp - taking no questions from reporters.

The first daughter's visit comes two days before the president's visit on Friday to Seminole County.
The GSMA has announced it will host MWC Africa in Kigali, Rwanda in 2021, bringing the leading global event series to the continent for the first time.

GSMA Director General, Mats Granryd, announced the news during his opening keynote address at Thrive Africa, the GSMAs virtual event platform. MWC21 Africa is part of the GSMAs flagship series of MWC events, which includes editions in Barcelona, Shanghai and Los Angeles.

The event aims to bring together the leading names from business and technology to become the continents most connected and influential event. With Africa facing its own unique challenges and addressing them with ingenious and often homegrown solutions, an African Mobile World Congress underlines the continents remarkable progress in terms of global connectivity.

I am proud of what we have built with Thrive and the previous Mobile 360 events, which have helped shape the continents connected digital future, said Granryd. From 2021 we will celebrate MWC Africa, joining our world-leading platform for thought-leadership and technology, recognising the important role Africa will play in our connected future.

Around the world, access to mobile internet is helping close the digital divide. Its transformative power is nowhere more obvious than in Africa. That is why Im excited about welcoming the world to Kigali next year to shine a light on African mobile and tech innovation.
Health officials' recommendation that the entire country be subject to visitor restrictions of six people from just one household was made due to an alarming spike in Covid infections among 18-25 year olds.

Its understood that the recommendation, decided upon at today's meeting of the National Public Health Emergency Team, is targeted at the pinch point of that age profile.

That is the particular pressure point that needs to be squeezed, that the message needs to be got across to, a senior source said.

The new restrictions as recommended by NPHET ordinarily apply to counties operating at level three of the Governments roadmap for living with Covid only.

That meeting did not recommend that any other counties join Dublin and Donegal on level three, despite much speculation beforehand that Cork, Roscommon, Monaghan, and Galway would do so.

The weekly HSE Covid-19 briefing heard that while the capital, which is two weeks into its level three restrictions, is still seeing three times the infection rate of much of the rest of the country, evidence of flattening within the countys numbers is beginning to be seen.

We need people to urgently get out of the mindset of worrying whats going to happen in the next three days, and start changing their behaviours, HSE chief executive Paul Reid said.

Meanwhile, the HSE is to conduct research via the Health Protection Surveillance Centre of 500 community-transmitted cases of Covid-19 for seven days prior to their positive test in order to add value to the contact-tracing process.

Speaking of the research, Mr Reid said that the knowledge gained from it will then be incorporated into the call scripts for contact tracers.

We need people to urgently get out of the mindset of worrying whats going to happen in the next three days, and start changing their behaviours, HSE chief executive Paul Reid said. Picture: Leon Farrell / Photocall Ireland

The news comes in the aftermath of an admission two weeks ago by Professor Philip Nolan, the head of NPHETs modelling taskforce, that the resources to ascertain close contacts of confirmed cases for a period of time greater than 48 hours prior do not exist.

However, Mr Reid said that the lessons learned from the research, which will be published once finalised, should not be allowed to compromise the speed of the contact tracing process.

Read More HSE boss welcomes the return of Tony Holohan

Giving an update on testing and tracing, Mr Reid said that more than 93,000 swab tests were performed last week, with just under 16,000 contact tracing calls made.

Of the positive cases notified last week, some 25% were aged between 15- 24, Mr Reid said, with 10% aged younger than 15, and 10% older than 65.

Mean turnaround time from test referral to completion of contact tracing is now two days, he said.

Meanwhile, Dr Una Fallon, the HSEs director of public health in the midlands, outlined a number of different contact tracing scenarios to give an idea of how cases are quantified in terms of risk.

She said that in a meat plant the source is not of as much importance as it would be in a school as the environment is controlled.

She gave the example of how two students in a class, with no obvious connection, who were found to be positive were discovered to have been swapping desks for a particular class.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. Armenian freestyle wrestler, 2019 European Wrestling Champion Arsen Harutyunyan has volunteered and joined the Artsakhi military amid the Azeri attacks.

The Wrestling Federation said Harutyunyan is already in Artsakh and has joined the troops.

Harutyunyans father, a war veteran, is also in Artsakh serving in the military.

103 servicemen of the Artsakh military have been killed in the Turkish-backed Azerbaijani attacks since September 27. Over 120 troops are wounded. 7 civilians were also killed in different cities of Artsakh as Azeri forces bombarded towns.

According to latest reports, the Azeri forces lost more than 920 servicemen in the their offensive operations with more than 2100 wounded. The Azeris have also lost 84 UAVs, 7 gunships, 166 tanks and armored equipment, 1 warplane and 1 Smerch launcher.

Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan
Representative image

In media appearances and talks with investors, Pfizers chief executive nearly always mentions a word that is so politically perilous, most of his competitors shy away from it: October.

Right now, our model  our best case  predicts that we will have an answer by the end of October, the chief executive, Dr. Albert Bourla, told the Today show earlier this month. In other interviews, he has said he expected a conclusive readout by then, with an application for emergency authorization that could be filed immediately.

Bourlas statements have put his company squarely in the sights of President Donald Trump, who has made no secret of his desire for positive vaccine news to boost his chances on Election Day, Nov. 3. Were going to have a vaccine very soon. Maybe even before a very special date, Trump said recently.

And yet by all other accounts, the idea that it will be ready in October is far-fetched. Even if the vaccine shows promising signs in clinical trials  still a big if  the company will not have collected enough data by then to say with any statistical confidence that it is safe and effective.

By repeating a date that flies in the face of most scientific predictions, Bourla is making a high-stakes gamble. If Pfizer puts out a vaccine before it has been thoroughly tested  something the company has pledged it will not do  it could pose a major threat to public safety. The perception matters, too: If Americans see the vaccine as having been rushed in order to placate Trump, many may refuse to get the shot.

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 there is a significant upside, to the tune of billions of dollars, in being first to the U.S. market with a vaccine. And staying in the presidents good graces  particularly when he keeps talking about ways to lower drug prices  might not be a bad thing for a company that brought in nearly $40 billion in 2019 from sales of high-priced, brand-name drugs.

Theres a huge financial advantage to being first out of the gate, said Dr. Megan Ranney, an associate professor of emergency medicine and public health at Brown University. She was one of 60 public health officials and others in the medical community who signed a letter to Pfizer urging it not to rush its vaccine.

And given the White Houses persistent efforts to interfere in the decisions of federal health agencies, some scientists fear a vaccine approval could come under similar pressure.

What I worry about is that the politics or the financial gain may drive earlier release than is scientifically appropriate, Ranney said.

Pfizer will not be anywhere near completion of its clinical trial by the end of October, according to a company spokeswoman. When Bourla referred to a conclusive readout next month, she said, he meant that its possible the outside board of experts monitoring the trial would have by that date found promising signs that the vaccine works.

Pfizers trial blueprints allow the panel to look at the data after just 32 volunteers have become ill with COVID-19. Even if most of those cases were in the placebo group, regulators at the Food and Drug Administration would likely need data from more volunteers before making a decision on authorization, according to people familiar with the governments vaccine approval process.

The FDA has also told vaccine-makers that they will need to track at least half of the patients safety data for two months before the agency will grant emergency access. That would push the earliest date into at least November.

In a statement, Pfizer said that it would continue to collect data on trial volunteers health for two years, and that it planned to submit two months of safety data to the agency to help inform FDAs ultimate determination of authorization or approval.

In public interviews, government health officials have refuted the October date. Both Dr. Moncef Slaoui, the chief scientific adviser to Operation Warp Speed, the federal effort that has awarded billions of dollars to vaccine-makers, and Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the nations top infectious disease doctor, have said October was unlikely.

Pfizers leading competitors in the vaccine race, Moderna and AstraZeneca, have been more vague about timing, saying they expect something before the end of the year. In a recent interview, Modernas chief executive, Stephane Bancel, said: October is possible, because very few things in life are impossible. The better word, he said, is unlikely.

They will not get approved before the election, said Ronny Gal, an analyst with the Wall Street firm Bernstein. The timing just doesnt work.

One key to understanding how Pfizer vaulted to first place in the vaccine race is found in its trial blueprints, known as a protocol.

Even though Moderna and Pfizer began their trials on the same day, Pfizers is built for speed, as one Wall Street firm, SVB Leerink, described it.

Participants in Pfizers trial are given two doses of a vaccine 21 days apart, whereas those in Modernas wait 28 days in between. Pfizer begins looking for sick volunteers seven days after the second dose, whereas Moderna does so at 14 days. And Pfizers plan allows an outside review panel to look at early data after just 32 volunteers have become ill with COVID-19. Modernas plan doesnt allow for a first peek until 53 cases.

Some experts have speculated that Pfizers volunteers happen to be in places where the virus is spreading quickly, making it more likely that they would have been exposed to the virus and put the vaccine to the test. While Modernas trial is being conducted only in the United States, Pfizers is international, with locations set up or planned in the United States, Brazil, Turkey and Argentina.

Across all of its trial sites, Pfizer said, 24,000 volunteers have received the second dose of the vaccine, more than half of the 44,000 that are expected to enroll.

Despite Pfizers confident pronouncements, a win is not guaranteed. Around 15% of vaccines in late-stage trials do not make it to approval.

Dr. Mark Goldberger, an infectious disease expert at the Global Antibiotic Research and Development Partnership and a former FDA official, noted that the agency has scheduled a meeting of outside experts to discuss experimental coronavirus vaccines on Oct. 22.

It would take an enormous effort to get the data by then, he said. Its within the realm of possibility, but there are things that could trip them up  a manufacturing issue, a safety issue, the efficacy is not as good as they expect.

Taking first place in the vaccine race isnt just about bragging rights, although the public-relations boost from developing a vaccine that could liberate the world from a deadly pandemic cannot be overstated.

Gal, the Bernstein analyst, said that Pfizer could win a significant commercial edge by taking control of the early market for a coronavirus vaccine. Unlike Johnson & Johnson and AstraZeneca, which have said they will not profit from their products during the pandemic, Pfizer has made no such promises.

It also has not taken federal money to develop its vaccine, instead signing a $1.95 billion deal to sell the first 100 million doses of its vaccine to the U.S. government. Bourla has said that the company didnt accept federal investment in its research and development so that the government wouldnt be able to control the price of the vaccine later on.

We didnt take money so that we dont have any restrictions, Bourla said on Sept. 16 at an event organized by the investment bank J.P. Morgan. Because I can imagine, if you take money, then you have to  a little bit  to explain about your pricing.

Bourla, who has spent much of the past month giving interviews to media outlets and appearing on industry panels, has insisted the companys accelerated timeline had nothing to do with politics. We have politicians or journalists speaking about efficacy or safety about medicines which, of course, is not appropriate, Bourla said at the companys investor day on Sept. 15. The scientists should be having these discussions.

Ultimately, Pfizers strategy may be about managing the publics expectations, said Brandon Barford, a partner at Beacon Policy Advisors, a research firm. Pfizer could now explain any delay past October by saying, Were being extra cautious. And you get kudos for it.

But if the opposite occurs, and Pfizer is seen to be pushing a vaccine before it is ready, the potential fallout is enormous, said Ranney, of Brown University. We cannot afford to have a vaccine released for COVID-19 that is either unsafe or ineffective.
[Follow our live Biden vs. Trump 2020 election coverage.]

Joseph R. Biden Jr. cast the first presidential debate as a leadership test for President Trump; Mr. Trump framed it as cognitive test for a supposedly senile Mr. Biden.

One of them passed.

While Mr. Biden did not deliver a stellar performance on Tuesday  and the mud-spattered spectacle in Cleveland left neither participant unsullied  he easily surpassed the low expectations set for him by a Trump campaign that had portrayed him as a doddering weakling incapable of facing an alpha president.

Mr. Biden arguably had more to lose going in: He was shaky in some primary debates and has kept a light public schedule and a relatively low profile since securing the Democratic nomination, in part to allow his opponent, who craves the spotlight, to roast in it alone.

But the former vice president, who turns 78 in November, stood comfortably at the lectern for 90 minutes  a capacity Trump aides had questioned leading up to the debate. And while he was often overshadowed and outshouted, he largely executed his main goal of presenting a stable contrast to the man beside him, despite a few flustered word fumbles and angry outbursts in which he called the heckling president a clown and a fool.
Naturally, electric vehicle and truck enthusiasts have lined up up to buy one, but the wait is going to be very long since the Cybertruck isnt scheduled to roll off the assembly line until late 2021. But a fan from Bosnia took matters into his own hands and transformed a Ford F-150 Raptor into a Cybertruck.

The Tesla Cybertruck created quite a stir when it was unveiled back in 2019. Thats mostly because it boasts an unusual design with extremely sharp lines, but its also because Tesla promises performance and towing specs that will put the Cybertruck well above the Ford F-150 , Chevrolet Silverado , and the Ram 1500 .

The conversion was done by a team of IT specialists and engineers working at the owner's company, Stark Solutions.

According to Reuters, it took them eight months to disassemble the F-150 Raptor truck and build a body that looks similar to the Tesla Cybertruck. Although its not identical to the angular truck that Elon Musk unveiled in 2019, and it clearly doesnt feature all the smart tech, its a good looking clone that might fool a few people from believing its the rear deal.

The "Ford Cybertruck" was driven for the first time through the streets of Mostar and drew a lot of attention. According to Stark Solutions manager Mario Coric, "everybody was watching and half of them thought we made a tank, because people dont know what the Cybertruck is."

"The owner wanted us to combine two opposite sides  Ford and Cyber  because he is a fan of both Tesla and Ford, so we merged two souls into one," he added.

The truck continues to feature the drivetrain of the Ford F-150 Raptor, so power comes from a 3.5-liter V-6 rated at 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque.

Theres no electrification whatsoever, so the conversion is just about the looks. But it seems the owner might not be able to drive this creation on public roads, because sharp vehicle edges are banned in Bosnia. Start Solutions is still trying to register it though.

Ford F-150 Raptor specifications Engine: 3.5-liter turbocharged V-6 engine (third-generation Viper) Horsepower: 450 horsepower Torque: 510 pound-feet of torque 0 to 60 mph: 5.1 seconds Top Speed: 107 mph Curb Weight: 5,525 pounds (2,506 kilos) Power-to-weight ratio (US tonne): 163 MSRP Price: $45,190 Used-Car Price (average): $30,000

The Tesla Cybertruck is coming in 2021

Unveiled in prototype form in November 2019, the Tesla Cybertruck is scheduled to arrive in 2021. The American company is planning to built a $1.1-billion factory near Austin, Texas, which will handle Cybertruck production exclusively.

The all-electric truck will be sold with three drivetrain configurations. There will be a base, single-motor RWD variant that will be able to run for up to 250 miles per charge and two up to 7,500 pounds. The mid-range version will feature the dual-motor, AWD layout and will provide 300 miles per charge and two more than 10,000 pounds of cargo.

Finally, there will be a tri-motor AWD model with the companys new Plaid drivetrain. Capable to cover more than 500 miles per charge, it will also enable the Cybertruck to tow more than 14,000 pounds. This truck will also run 0 to 60 mph in less than 2.9 seconds and hit a top speed of 130 mph.

2021 Tesla Cybertruck specifications Single-motor RWD Dual-motor AWD Tri-motor AWD Horsepower: >400 HP 690 HP 800 HP Torque: TBA 824 LB-FT 1,000 LB-FT Range: 250+ miles 300+ miles 500+ miles 0-60 mph: 6.5 seconds 4.5 seconds 2.9 seconds Top Speed: 110 mph 120 mph 130 mph Payload Capacity: 3,500 pounds 3,500 pounds 3,500 pounds Towing Capacity: 7,500 pounds 10,000 pounds 14,000 pounds

The truck features an exterior made from stainless steel panels and an in-house-developed alloy thats bullet-resistant against 9mm caliber bullets. Its windows are also bullet proof, so the truck is built almost like a tank.

Pricing for the Cybertruck starts from $39,900, but the range-topping model with the tri-motor layout will come in at $69,900.

Source: Reuters
The White House

President Donald Trump early Thursday morning signed a spending bill to keep the government open until December 11, according to a tweet from White House spokesman Judd Deere.

The President signed the bill upon returning to the White House from campaign stops in Minnesota. Trump did not sign the bill before the midnight deadline to keep the government open, but no federal operations were expected to be affected by the shutdown that lasted less than an hour.

The bill breezed through the Senate on Wednesday after having been approved by the House last week and had been sent for Trumps signature just after 6 p.m. The President had left the White House for campaign stops about three-and-a-half hours before that vote.
At least three Indian soldiers were killed and five others wounded by Pakistani shelling along the highly militarized frontier dividing Kashmir between the two nuclear-armed rivals, the Indian Army said on October 1.

Indian Army spokesman Colonel Rajesh Kalia said two soldiers died and four were wounded on October 1 when Pakistani soldiers fired mortar rounds and other weapons in the northwestern Nowgam sector along the Line of Control in the Kupwara district.

Kalia called the incident an unprovoked violation of a 2003 cease-fire accord and said Indian troops gave a befitting response.

Separately, one soldier was killed and another wounded in Pakistani shelling and firing in southern Poonch district along the frontier on September 30, said Lieutenant Colonel Devender Anand, another Indian military spokesman.

Pakistan did not directly comment on the deaths. In the past, each side has accused the other of starting border skirmishes in the disputed Himalayan region, which both claim in its entirety.

However, Pakistani Foreign Ministry spokesman Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri accused New Delhi of escalating tension along the Line of Control to divert world attention from its human rights violations in Indian-occupied Kashmir.

Chaudhri said at a weekly media briefing on October 1 that India has committed 2,404 cease-fire violations since January in which 19 people were killed and 192 others were wounded in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

On September 29, Pakistans military said Indian troops opened fire across the border in the region, killing a 15-year-old boy and a soldier and wounding four villagers.

The Indian government says Pakistan has committed more than 3,000 cease-fire violations so far this year.

The two neighbors have fought two wars over the territory, and India accuses Pakistan of arming and training insurgents fighting for Kashmirs independence from India or unification with Pakistan. Pakistan denies the charge and says it offers only diplomatic and moral support to the rebels.

Tensions soared in February 2019, when a suicide bombing killed 40 Indian paramilitary soldiers in the Indian-controlled part of Kashmir, and India retaliated with airstrikes inside Pakistani territory. Pakistan shot down one of the warplanes in Kashmir and captured a pilot who was quickly released. India said the strikes targeted Pakistan-based militants responsible for the suicide bombing.

Relations have been further strained since August last year, when India revoked the Muslim-majority regions decades-old semi-autonomous status, touching off anger on both sides of the frontier.

Since then, rival troops have traded fire almost daily along the rugged and mountainous frontier, leaving dozens of civilians and soldiers dead on both sides.
Wagner Goncalves, the artistic director of Estacio de Sa, one of the oldest samba schools, or groups, has turned their workshop into a distribution center for food baskets. On Monday, people lined up near the schools floats, which have not been disassembled, to collect the assistance packages.

The financial impact is something that we havent been able to grapple with, Mr. Goncalves said, noting that many Brazilians have been getting by on temporary government assistance payments. The food baskets, he said, are a way to give people a breath of hope.

Luiz Carlos Silva, a steel sculptor who has worked on carnival displays since the 1990s, was in line waiting for a basket wearing necklaces of blue beads, a symbol of his faith in the Afro-Brazilian deities that are frequently honored in the parades.

He listed the friends he has lost to the virus and said he never expected to go through such hardship when he gave up his job as a bus driver in 2002 to devote his time to a labor of love: the citys carnival.

Were losing the art of carnival, he said, referring to the scaled-back plans this year. Its a bit sad because carnival is the land of joy.

Mr. Ferreira, the researcher, said samba schools leaders are keeping their options open and their plans vague. They may put on performances outside the Sambodromo, or participate in the street parties that have become an increasingly central part of carnival.
Biocard Pro COVID-19 Rapid Antigen kit is a chromatographic immunoassay for the qualitative detection of COVID-19 specific antigen present in human nasopharyngeal

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has granted its approval to Chennai based Trivitron Healthcare to commercially launch their flagship product COVID-19 Rapid Testing Antigen (ag) Kit.

This Covid-19 testing kits will be branded as Biocard Pro COVID-19 Rapid Antigen and is claimed to provide accurate results in just 7~10 minutes.

Individuals suspected to have been infected with the novel coronavirus (nCoV) can make use of the Biocard Pro COVID-19 Rapid Antigen kit to confirm their infection status.

Biocard Pro COVID-19 Rapid Antigen kit is a chromatographic immunoassay for the qualitative detection of COVID-19 specific antigen present in human nasopharyngeal. Using a nasal swab to get a fluid sample, antigen tests can produce results in minutes. As these tests are faster and less expensive than other popularly done PCR tests, antigen tests may be more practical to use for large numbers of people.

Technical Specification of Biocard Pro COVID-19 Rapid Ag test kit:

Method: Immuno chromatography

Sample type: Nasopharyngeal Swab

Assay Time: 7 to 10 minutes

Storage: 4 to 30  C

C Shelf-life: 24 months

Rajesh Patel, Chief Executive Officer  IVD India, Trivitron Healthcare, on this occasion said - The main focus is to contribute in the global fight against COVID-19 through world class products and expertise in medical technology. Our Rapid antigen test is quicker than the available RTPCR based tests, as it takes approximately 7-10 minutes, compared to about five hours being taken by the RT-PCR based testing methods. Also, confirmation through antigen based tests does not require a sophisticated laboratory, which is a key requirement for RT-PCR tests.

Biocard Pro COVID-19 Rapid Antigen kit will be manufactured at Trivitrons Chennai manufacturing facility at the rate of around 4.5-5 million tests per month. The company plans to distribute these kits to various government entities and private laboratories through various marketing channels.
DUBLIN, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- ResearchAndMarkets.com published a new article on the hydrogen power industry "Saudi Arabia Sends World's First Shipment of Blue Ammonia to Japan for Zero Carbon Energy"

A pilot study conducted by the Institute of Energy Economics Japan and Saudi Aramco in partnership with Saudi Basic Industries Corp has seen the world's first shipment of blue ammonia from Saudi Arabia to Japan to be used in power generation. Blue ammonia is a feedstock for blue hydrogen. The Saudi Japan blue ammonia supply demonstration study focuses on converting hydrocarbons to hydrogen and then to ammonia as well as the capture of associated carbon dioxide emissions. Ammonia derived from renewable sources that create no emissions is known as green ammonia.



Japan has committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 26% by 2030 from 2013 levels, under the Paris climate pact. Since blue ammonia can be burned in a thermal power station without releasing carbon emissions, it has the potential to make a significant contribution to the country's low carbon future. The study also represents a way for Saudi Aramco to demonstrate the potential for hydrocarbons as a source of low carbon hydrogen. Japan will receive 40 tons of blue ammonia in the first shipment.



To see the full article and a list of related reports on the market, visit "Saudi Arabia Sends World's First Shipment of Blue Ammonia to Japan for Zero Carbon Energy"



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MARYVILLE  Maryville Police reported a burglary at Walgreens, located at 6607 Route 162, before sunrise Wednesday.

Dep. Police Chief Tony Manley said at 4:49 a.m., the department received an alarm from the store for glass breakage.

Two minutes later, officers responded and noticed a window broken and merchandise lying on the ground. Officers eventually cleared the building and called crime scene investigators with Illinois State Police. As the store was closed, no employees or customers were involved.

Video footage showed a thin, white male subject entering the business through the broken window. Manley said an undisclosed amount of tobacco was taken before police arrived.

The investigation is ongoing and we are working with other agencies to help solve this crime, Manley said.

A reporter called the Walgreens located at 401 Beltline Road on the northwest corner of Beltline and Route 159 in Collinsville Thursday. While a female employee verified that the store was burglarized overnight Tuesday into Wednesday, she would not confirm any other details. The store manager was off-site so she referred a reporter to the companys media relations department in Chicago.

Maj. Brett Boerm, the deputy police chief in Collinsville, said Thursday that the suspect is wanted in more than 10 Walgreens burglaries on both sides of the Mississippi River since Sept. 12. In each case, he has broken in for tobacco products while the store was closed, he added. Boerm confirmed both Walgreens in town have been hit by the same suspect.

Reach reporter Charles Bolinger at 618-659-5735
No gathering is permissible around the India Gate area owing to the imposition of Section 144, Delhi deputy commissioner of police said on Thursday. A gathering of 100 people in Jantar Mantar is allowed but with the prior consent from the competent authority, the DCP office said. The order comes a day before a gathering was being planned demanding justice for the Dalit woman of Hathras, who was allegedly gang-raped on September 14 and later succumbed to the injuries on September 29.

General public is informed that in view of Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) order (dated 03.09.2020) a total gathering up to 100 persons is permissible at Jantar Mantar, and that too with prior permission of the competent authority, the DCP office tweeted.

In the past few days, several protests took place near the India Gate area. The recent farm bill protests in which a tractor was set on fire took place in this area. Police arrested five people, including the Punjab Youth Congress president Brinder Singh Dhillon, for leading the group that had set afire a tractor on Monday this week.
Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has said the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) is better today than it was in 2016 when the party won the election from opposition.

He said the NPP, since assuming office in 2017, had worked harder to justify its re-election and would not need to 'play games' with anybody to win the 2020 contest, adding that the NPP would surely defeat the National Democratic Congress (NDC) again.

Speaking on 'Asempa FM' in Accra yesterday, the Vice-President said it was unfortunate for the current opposition NDC to suggest that the NPP government was deliberately creating insecurity in the Volta Region and then use that as a pretext to send security personnel to the area to intimidate the people.

The host of the programme read a statement coming from the NDC National Chairman, Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, in which he claimed President Akufo-Addo was not acting on the Volta Region violence because they want to send soldiers to the NDC stronghold during the election to put fear in the people.

But the Vice-President described the NDC position as unfortunate, saying, When the country faces a threat, we expect all political parties to leave politics aside so that we join hands together and protect the country.

But any opportunity for our opponent to get political advantage in this issue does not make sense. We won an election in 2016 when they were in office. We didn't need to suppress votes in their strongholds. They were in office when we won the election by over a million votes, he added.

And, in fact, if truth be told, I think that our performance in government has even put us in a better position than we were in 2016 as far as the politics is concerned. So there is no need to try to play games and try to suppress votes in strongholds. There is no need for that at all, he indicated.

Bawumia Shakes Nima

In the morning, activities at Nima in Accra literally came to a standstill when the Vice-President started the two-day of his Greater Accra Regional tour with a walk there.

He was in the company of the party's parliamentary candidates for Ayawaso East and North constituencies, Peter Mireku and Manaf Mohammad Osmanu, respectively.

Everywhere he went, Dr. Bawumia was cheered on by enthusiastic crowd, most of whom did the NPP sign indicating 'Four More for Nana' to which he responded in like manner in the form of a wave.

It was an interesting sight to behold when he got to the Nima Market where scores of market women sang the 'Four More for Nana song.

He urged the market to consider what the Akufo-Addo-led NPP administration had been able to do, including the provision of Free SHS, the construction of factories, warehouses, dams, planting for food and jobs programme, restoration of trainee teachers and nurses allowance and other achievements, to give the four more years to do more.

Dr. Bawumia later addressed a mini rally at the Kawukudi Park where he touted government's achievements, saying, among other things, that since independence, Zongo communities had seen little development and had never been considered in the national budget and that it took the coming into power of President Akufo-Addo to change the narrative and created a Ministry for Zongo Development as well as an agency called the Zongo Development Fund to see to the progress of the communities.

He said that former President John Mahama and his NDC who pretend to love Muslims rather cancelled allowances for Arabic instructors and it took President Akufo-Addo and the NPP to restore it alongside the restoration of the teaching and nursing trainee allowances.

Apart from that, he said 40 students from Zongos had been selected under the NPP government to study medicine in Cuba and added that 37 ICT centres had also been constructed for Zongos throughout the country.

---Daily Guide
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 1, 2020) -ALX Resources Corp. (TSXV: AL) (FSE: 6LLN) (OTC: ALXEF) ("ALX" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that an airborne electromagnetic ("EM") survey has commenced at the Company's Firebird Nickel Project ("Firebird", or the "Project", formerly the Falcon Nickel Project) located near the town of Stony Rapids at the terminus of Highway 905 in northern Saskatchewan, Canada. Firebird is currently the subject of an option agreement with Rio Tinto Exploration Canada Inc. ("Rio Tinto") where Rio Tinto can earn up to an 80% interest in Firebird (see ALX news release dated August 24, 2020, "ALX Resources Corp. Announces Rio Tinto Exploration Canada Earn-In for the Falcon Nickel Project").

At the request of Rio Tinto, ALX is acting as operator of the airborne EM survey, which will consist of approximately 1,060 line kilometres utilizing the helicopter-borne Vertical Time-Domain Electromagnetic ("VTEM Max") system from Geotech Ltd. of Aurora, Ontario, Canada. The VTEM Max system offers a higher degree of depth penetration than the VTEM system previously used at Firebird in 2005, and will be carried out over the northern part of Firebird where no modern airborne EM system has ever been flown.

"Rio Tinto is moving quickly to assess the exploration potential of Firebird," said Warren Stanyer, ALX's CEO and Chairman. "This leading edge, deep-penetrating airborne survey is an excellent method to locate and better define conductors that could not be detected by historical exploration."

Click on the highlighted link to view maps and pictures of ALX's exploration activities at the Firebird Nickel Project.

About the Firebird Nickel Project

ALX owns 100% of Firebird, subject to certain 2.0% net smelter returns royalties. ALX first acquired claims at Firebird beginning in May 2019. Additional land purchases and acquisitions by staking increased the size of the Project to approximately 20,491 hectares (50,635 acres). Mobilization is achieved from the town of Stony Rapids, SK, located approximately 18 kilometres by air from the centre of Firebird. Stony Rapids is connected to the Saskatchewan highway system by all-weather Highway 905 and has a fully-serviced airport to support both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters.

Firebird is located within the Tantato Domain, which forms a segment of the Snowbird Tectonic Zone. The Project hosts a magmatic nickel sulphide mineralizing system that has been underexplored by modern methods until its acquisition by ALX. A long history of exploration beginning in 1929 discovered numerous nickel-copper-cobalt showings within Firebird's boundaries, including the historical Axis Lake, Rea Lake and Currie Lake deposits.

Helicopter-supported diamond drilling and ground geophysical programs were completed by ALX at Firebird in March 2020. Magmatic nickel-copper-cobalt mineralization was intersected in two of the three holes drilled on new targets developed by ALX (see ALX news release dated April 15, 2020, "ALX Resources Corp. Announces Results of 2020 Winter Drilling at Falcon Nickel Project, Northern Saskatchewan"), with the best result being 23.78 metres grading 0.36% nickel in hole FN20-002, including 10.61 metres of 0.55% nickel and 2.05 metres of 0.90% nickel (true widths unknown).

Firebird hosts a multitude of other airborne geophysical anomalies that could represent zones of magmatic sulphide mineralization. The proposed airborne EM survey will provide new information about the relatively underexplored northern part of the Project, where ALX believes higher grades of nickel tend to occur. ALX looks forward to the completion of the 2020 VTEM Max survey, which combined with the ongoing review and interpretation of historical airborne and ground EM data could generate a series of new drill targets at Firebird.

NI 43-101 Disclosure

The technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Sierd Eriks, P.Geo., President and Chief Geologist of ALX, who is a Qualified Person in accordance with the Canadian regulatory requirements set out in NI 43-101.

Drill core samples described in this news release were shipped to SRC Geoanalytical Laboratories in Saskatoon, SK. Base metals were analyzed using a 4-acid digestion with Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Samples that returned over 10,000 parts per million nickel were analyzed with HCl:HNO3 digestion followed by base metal wt% assay by Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES). Gold, platinum and palladium were analyzed by fire assay techniques.

About ALX

ALX is based in Vancouver, BC, Canada and its common shares are listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "AL", on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol "6LLN" and in the United States OTC market under the symbol "ALXEF".

ALX's mandate is to provide shareholders with multiple opportunities for discovery by exploring a portfolio of prospective mineral properties, which include gold, nickel-copper-cobalt and uranium projects. The Company uses the latest exploration technologies and holds interests in over 200,000 hectares in Saskatchewan, a stable Canadian jurisdiction that hosts the highest-grade uranium mines in the world, a producing gold mine, and demonstrates strong potential for economic base metals deposits.

ALX owns 100% interests in the Firebird Nickel Project (now under option to Rio Tinto Exploration Canada, who can earn up to an 80% interest), Flying Vee and Sceptre Gold projects in northern Saskatchewan, the Vixen Gold Project in the historic Red Lake Mining District of Ontario, Canada, and the Draco VMS Project in Norway. ALX holds interests in a number of uranium exploration properties in northern Saskatchewan, including a 20% interest in the Hook-Carter Uranium Project, with Denison Mines Corp. holding an 80% interest since 2016.

For more information about the Company, please visit the ALX corporate website atwww.alxresources.com or contact Roger Leschuk, Manager, Corporate Communications at, PH: 604.629.0293 or Toll-Free: 866.629.8368, or by email: rleschuk@alxresources.com

On Behalf of the Board of Directors of ALX Resources Corp.

"Warren Stanyer"

Warren Stanyer, CEO and Chairman

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Statements in this document which are not purely historical are forward-looking statements, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Forward-looking statements in this news release include: the Firebird Nickel Project ("Firebird") is prospective for nickel-copper-cobalt mineralization; the Company's expectations for funding partners to undertake exploration activities at Firebird and expend funds on Firebird. It is important to note that the Company's actual business outcomes and exploration results could differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties include that: the initial findings at Firebird may prove to be unworthy of further expenditure; announced contracting and funding partners may decide not to continue work or funding our projects; commodity prices may not support exploration expenditures at Firebird or at any of the Company's other projects; ALX may not be able to fully finance exploration at its other mineral exploration projects, including drilling activities; and economic, competitive, governmental, societal, environmental and technological factors may affect the Company's operations, markets, products and share price. Even if ALX and its funding partners explore and develop Firebird or any of our other projects, and even if nickel-copper-cobalt or other metals or minerals are discovered in quantity, Firebird or our other projects may not prove to be commercially viable. Additional risk factors are discussed in the Company's Management Discussion and Analysis for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2020, which is available under the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com. Except as required by law, we will not update these forward-looking statement risk factors.

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

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/64992
Hydrogen could supply our energy needs, fuel our cars, heat our homes, and help to fight climate change all while generating $2.5 trillion of direct revenues and $11 trillion of indirect infrastructure potential by 2050, a report said.



It has the potential to jump 6x in volumes, said the Thematic Investing report by Bank of America (BofA) Global Research.



The report highlighted that the point of harnessing the element that comprises 90% of the universe, effectively and economically is being reached.



Economics, tech, environment



Hydrogen technology has been around for decades, but has yet to reach its tipping point in mainstream use. BofA said this is about to change for 3 reasons:



1) the falling cost of renewable energy and electrolysers used to produce green hydrogen - down 50% in the past 5 years, and estimated to fall 60% - 90% further before the end of the decade;



2) tech improvements, better efficiencies and flexibility in fuel cell and electrolysers;



3) a global focus on decarbonisation and sustainability, expanding potential end-markets.



Renewable electricity cannot provide the entire solution for decarbonisation: 80% of energy today comes from fossil fuels rather than renewable sources. Green hydrogen could be key in the fight against global warming, providing up to 24% of our energy needs by 2050, helping to cut emissions by up to 30%.



For the increasing number of countries signing legally binding pledges for net zero carbon emissions by 2050, the only viable clean molecule is hydrogen, which will play a major role in achieving these goals.



Scaling up any new technology entails challenges, but now is the time to look at it, before it goes mainstream. Hydrogen is not yet a clean industry - 99% is today made using fossil fuels, accounting for more emissions than the entire airline industry, while hydrogen efficiency for electricity can be as low as 16%.



Costs need to fall up to 85% for green hydrogen to compete with fossil fuel-derived hydrogen, which should happen by 2030. Furthermore, governments, e.g. EU, China, and Australia, are starting to provide strong policy support, through increased carbon prices and funding to develop the fuel.



Hydrogen will have the greatest effect on sectors where decarbonisation with electricity from renewable energy is not possible. Providers of H2 tech are set to be beneficiaries, alongside renewable utilities, as the renewable capacity needed for green hydrogen production could grow 10x by 2050.



The industrial gas & chemicals sectors, should gain share of this energy supply and self-decarbonisation. Other sectors where electrification cannot be the answer, e.g. steel, heating, and transport, could transition. In contrast, fossil energy faces a demand decline as end-markets transition, e.g. 20% additional decline in oil demand if road transport fully transitions by 2050.  TradeArabia News Service
Jerry Mallach was on the lookout for his familys mail-in ballots in recent days.

When they arrived, he got more than he expected.
SEATTLE, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Apprenti , Washington State's first registered tech apprenticeship program, announced today that the U.S. Department of Labor has awarded it a $7.5 million, five-year contract to continue its nationwide expansion.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating effect on the nation's economy, with 13.6 million Americans out of work in August 2020. According to McKinsey, even before the current crisis, evolving technologies and new ways of working were disrupting jobs and the skills employees needed to do them. This shift, coupled with a dramatic split in college attendance between higher and lower income students, has accelerated the need for programs that can bridge the gap for untapped talent with non-traditional backgrounds.

"This has been an unpredictable, and uncertain year, but it's also compelled people to hone in on what's most important. For many organizations, that's taking action to hire, support and retain a diverse and inclusive workforce," said Jennifer Carlson, co-founder and executive director, Apprenti. "Closing these gaps helps lift our economy as we recover from the pandemic and also builds organizations that look more like the communities in which they operate. This contract from the Department of Labor solidifies the continued need for our program, and apprenticeship as a national system, allowing us to expand our proven model and create jobs during a time it's needed most."

Apprenti is the nation's first registered tech apprenticeship program that places diverse talent into top tech roles across the U.S. Apprenti offers a proven, reliable pipeline for underrepresented groups, bridging the talent gap and giving diverse talent with nontraditional backgrounds the opportunity to apprentice at some of the top companies in the world. Apprenti currently operates in 16 U.S. markets. Apprenti has placed more than 1,000 apprentices nationwide at top companies including Microsoft, Wayfair, and JPMorgan Chase. More than and 80 percent of these apprentices have been retained or hired post-apprenticeship with significantly higher salaries than previous employment. For example, apprentices in Washington State earn an average salary of $87,209n in their first year after graduation, which is a 114% increase based on their income prior to the program.

This news comes on the heels of a momentous year for Apprenti. The organization expanded to three new markets  New Jersey, Kansas, and Delaware  due to increased employer demand. Apprenti has also signed on over 20 new hiring partners in 2020.

For more information on Apprenti, visit www.ApprentiCareers.org .

About Apprenti

Apprenti is a registered apprenticeship program powered by the Washington Technology Industry Association (WTIA) and run by the WTIA Workforce Institute. Apprenti trains future tech workers with an emphasis on underrepresented groups including women, minorities, and veterans. Apprenti is an industry recognized, state accredited program. Apprentices receive two to four months of full-time, industry recognized training then begin one-year of paid on-the-job training with one of the program's hiring partners. The program is partially funded through both a contract and grant from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), with support from the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I). For more information on how to apply, donate, or become a hiring partner, please visit www.ApprentiCareers.org .

SOURCE Apprenti
Chennai, Oct 1 : Breaking its silence on the happenings in the Kerala-based Dhanlaxmi Bank, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Thursday approved the formation of a Committee of Directors (CoD) to exercise the powers of Managing Director and CEO as an interim measure.

In a regulatory filing, Dhanlaxmi Bank said, as requested by its Board of Directors, the RBI has approved an interim arrangement for formation of a CoD to exercise the powers of Managing Director and CEO till such time a new person takes charge.

The CoD consists of G. Subramonia Iyer as Chairman, and G. Rajagopalan Nair and P.K. Vijayakumar as Members.

"As advised by the RBI, the interim arrangement will not continue beyond four months, within which the Bank will complete the process of identification and appointment of a new MD and CEO," Dhanlaxmi Bank said.

Since Wednesday, suspense continued over the next course of action at the Dhanlaxmi Bank, after the shareholders voted out MD and CEO Sunil Gurbaxani at the annual general meeting (AGM), said industry officials.

"The bank has communicated, to the RBI, the shareholders' decision at the AGM to vote out Gurbaxani. The bank Board has sent to the RBI its decision to form a CoD to manage the day-to-day affairs of the bank till a new Managing Director and CEO is appointed," a source told IANS.

The bank Board on Wednesday had recommended a three-member CoD. On the other hand, Gurbaxani has not put in his papers after the shareholders voted him out, and was waiting for the RBI's decision on the issue, saying he was appointed by the Central bank.

However, Gurbaxani chose to be silent when asked to comment by IANS.

Industry experts told IANS that though a bank is governed by both the Companies Act and the Banking Regulation Act, the latter overrides the former in case of any conflict of provisions.

It has to be seen whether the RBI will direct Dhanlaxmi Bank to call another AGM as per the provisions of the Banking Regulation Act. If this happens, the issue of shareholder democracy will also come into play.

There is already a view that the RBI seems to be micro-managing Dhanlaxmi bank by directing it to remove a former Chief General Manager appointed as an adviser.

Gurbaxani was appointed as MD and CEO of the bank for a period of three years from February 27 this year.

In the AGM, the ordinary resolution moved for Gurbaxani's appointment was defeated with 90.49 per cent of the votes polled against the proposal as per the regulatory filing. Only 9.51 per cent of the votes were polled in favour of his appointment.

Of the 10 resolutions moved at the AGM, the shareholders had passed nine and defeated one.

This is the second private bank where the shareholders have voted against the appointment of the Managing Director and CEO in recent days.

On September 25, the shareholders of Lakshmi Vilas Bank (LVB) had voted out seven directors, including the Managing Director and CEO, in the AGM. However, in the case of LVB, the RBI had asked the Directors to form a CoD on the same day.

The RBI had, on September 28, appointed Dhanlaxmi Bank's General Manager, Bengaluru Regional Office, D.K. Kashyap as an Additional Director of the bank for a period of two years.

However, in a letter to RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das, All India Bank Employees' Association's General Secretary C.H. Venkatachalam said it is hoped the move will strengthen effective monitoring and control by the RBI over the affairs of Dhanlaxmi Bank.

Venkatachalam also suggested to Das, that while appointing a new Managing Director and CEO for the Dhanlaxmi Bank, the RBI should keep the entire background and context in view and select a person who is familiar with the bank, its customers, depositors and shareholders as well as over nine decades of its existence.

(Venkatachari Jagannathan can be contacted at v.jagannathan@ians.in)
LAS CRUCES, N.M., Oct. 01, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MCI, LC of Iowa City, IA has recently expanded it's United States operations to the talent-rich City of Las Cruces. As MCI's business has expanded with new customer acquisition and growth of existing clients, the need for additional brick and mortar facilities and new talent pools prompted the footprint. The location is a natural fit for the organization, providing affordable office space, labor pools, and a higher proportion of bilingual speakers.



New Mexico's Economic Development Department's Job Training Incentive Program (JTIP) awarded a training grant to MCI to aide in the decision to bring over 100 jobs initially to the market, with a grant that extends to up to 360. This grant provides training incentive resources to attract great candidates and secure MCI's future in the market. Further, MCI was assisted in the move to Las Cruces by the City itself and the Mesilla Valley Economic Alliance.

"We are excited to see the growth of Mass Markets (MCI) into Las Cruces," said Las Cruces Mayor Ken Miyagishima. "It is important to see our economy begin to recover as we restore the growth of our jobs. We are thankful to the New Mexico Economic Development Department for their efforts to see this growth in our City, as well as the efforts and collaboration with our Economic Development Department of the City of Las Cruces and MVEDA".

MCI-owned Mass Markets has been expanding rapidly over the last five years through a combination of organic and inorganic growth. While evaluating new locations to expand to, a thorough, multi-layered vetting process was done.

The Las Cruces location is a good fit for Mass Markets as it is an affordable location in the Mountain Time Zone in a community that already has a trained workforce, said Don Christiano, Vice President for the Southwest region of Mass Markets.

"We are elated to be expanding to the American Southwest, and Las Cruces, specifically. The people have been very welcoming, and based on the talented workforce that makes up the landscape, we are very excited about the growth opportunities to come as the economy opens back up," said MCI's founder and CEO Anthony Marlowe. "MCI has expanded in a very geographically diverse, strategic way. Las Cruces and the state of New Mexico checked many boxes for us when we were searching for new markets. The addition of the Las Cruces site sets us up very well for continued growth and demand for bilingual and southwestern U.S. workers," Marlowe added.

Davin Lopez, CEO and President of MVEDA also welcomed Mass Markets. "It is so critical that at this time period we continue to encourage job growth into our community," said Lopez. "We welcome Mass Markets to Las Cruces and value the investment they are making into our workforce."

Mass Markets, an MCI Company headquartered in Iowa City with 14 office locations, handles telephone support for several industries and government agencies.

Mass Market has leased the space vacated by Empereon, 2255 S. Main St., Las Cruces, New Mexico.

Mass Markets will be ramping up its hiring and training in the next several weeks as the Covid-19 health restrictions allow. For more information on jobs, please visit or https://www.mci.world/careers/

About MCI

In 2019 Marlowe Companies Inc. (MCI) was named by Inc. Magazine as Iowa's Fastest Growing Company in the State of Iowa and was named the 452nd Fastest Growing Privately Company in the USA, making the coveted top 500 for the first time. MCI's subsidiaries had previously made Inc. Magazine's List of Fastest Growing Companies 16 times respectively.

MCI is headquartered in Iowa City, IA, and has twelve customer contact management centers, I.T. services, and business process outsourcing service delivery facilities in Iowa, Georgia, Florida, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Nova Scotia, South Dakota, and Texas.

Driving modernization through digitalization, MCI ensures clients do more for less. MCI is the holding company for a diverse lineup of tech-enabled business services operating companies. MCI organically grows, acquires and operates companies that have a synergistic products and services portfolios, including but not limited to Automated Contact Center Solutions (ACCS), customer contact management, I.T. Services (I.T. Schedule 70), and Temporary and Administrative Professional Staffing (TAPS Schedule 736), Business Process Management (BPM), Business Process Outsourcing (BPO), Claims Processing, Collections, Customer Experience Provider (CXP), Customer Service, Digital Experience Provider (DXP), Account Receivables Management (ARM), Application Software Development, Managed Services, and Technology Services, to mid-market, Federal & enterprise partners.

MCI now employs almost 4,000 talented individuals with 100+ diverse North American client partners across the following MCI brands: GravisApps, Mass Markets, MCI Federal Services (MFS), The Sydney Call Center, OnBrand24, and Valor Intelligent Processing (VIP).

MCI provides products and services under the following NAICS Codes: 511210 Software Publishers, 518210 Data Processing, Hosting, and Related Services, 519190 All Other Information Services, 524291 Claims Adjusting, 524292 Third Party Administration of Insurance and Pension Funds, 541511 Custom Computer Programming Services, 541512 Computer Systems Design Services, 541519 Other Computer Related Services, 541519 Information Technology and Value Added Resellers, 541611 Administrative Management and General Management Consulting Services, 541613 Marketing Consulting Services, 541690 Other Scientific and Technical Consulting Services, 541990 All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services, 561110 Office Administrative Services, 561320 Temporary Help Services, 561330 Professional Employer Organizations, 561421 Telephone Answering Services, 561422 Telemarketing Bureaus and Other Contact Centers, 561431 Private Mail Centers, 561440 Collection Agencies, 561499 All Other Business Support Services, 561990 All Other Support Services, 611430 Professional and Management Development Training.

For more information about MCI, please visit or https://www.mci.world/

To Contact MCI PR Dept.

Info@MCI.WORLD
N Sathiya Moorthy By

Conveying the sentiments of 1.3 billion people of India in the annual address to the UN General Assembly, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said matter-of-factly: it is also true that the people of India have been waiting for a long time for the completion of the reforms of the United Nations.

Today, people of India are concerned whether this reform process will ever reach its logical conclusion.

In the same vein, he asked, more out of frustration at the past than desperation about the future: For how long will India be kept out of the decision-making structures of the United Nations? A country, which is the largest democracy of the world, a country with more than 18% of the world population, a country, which has hundreds of languages, hundreds of dialects, many sects, many ideologies, a country, which was a leading global economy for centuries and also one which has seen hundreds of years of foreign rule. In effect, a world within the world.

It was typical Modi-speak. The reference is to the long-pending Indian aspirations to become a permanent member of the UN Security Council, where as Modi noted, beginning January, India will fill an elected, non-permanent seat for a term. Whither UN?: As the prime minister pointed out, the world is caught in the web of the Covid pandemic and has no time for what someone out there may dismiss as an India lament. The prime minister listed out Indias contributions to the world over the years. He recalled how more Indian soldiers had died peace-keeping for the UN than counterparts from other countries.

Restricting himself to the recent years (for obvious domestic political reasons), Modi referred to Indias Neighbourhood First Policy and how it has proved itself as a good, large and large-hearted neighbourand without mala fide intent, as he pointed out. In particular, India rushed Covid-related aid material to as many as 150 countries (out of a total of 193 member-states in the UN, or three-fourths of the total membership), Modi said. It could well be the highest number for any nation, including the so-called developed ones, to have sent out help in these testing times.

Using Covid-care as yet another peg, the prime minister seemed to be looking at the world body straight into its eyes: Were the efforts of the United Nations sufficient during those times or are these efforts adequate even today? ... Where is the United Nations in this joint fight against the pandemic? Where is its effective response? It was again typical Modi-speak, and taken to the world body and to the larger world outsidetheir national leaderships. India has made UN reforms a world cause, and the Indian demand for a permanent UNSC seat an element within that larger and ever more urgent requirement of mankind as a whole.

India now needs to take it to the logical conclusion, but leading the Third World, with First World nations like Germany and Japan, too, already signing in. For the Third World, Indias present-day contributions go beyond the spiritual, yet are as much as they were during the closing years of colonial rule across the globeafter a gap. For individual nations, the taste of their food is in the eating. It has to go beyond pulpit talks to hard, behind-the-scenes diplomacy. It requires hard talk and harder decisions, at times involving our friends and allies.

In the neighbourhood, in particular, India still needs to fine-tune its perceptions of balancing traditional political and cultural linkages with its postmodern self-styled R2P (Responsibility to Protect) actions. In effect, it is all about Indias friends outsourcing their quaint perceptions that most of them do not apply to the self. And India needs to begin its UN and global ride with all neighbours (sans Pakistan, of course) by its side, but unaffected by customary/periodic domestic political swings in individual nations.

Humanitarian enterprise: This is where Indias idea of Vasudhaiva Kudumbam is at work, not only as a political idea or a social contract, but even more as a humanitarian enterprise. In his UNGA appearance in person last year, Modi quoted the Tamil equivalent (not a translation), a line from pre-Christendom poet Kaniyan Poongundranar: Yaadhum Oore Yaavarum Kelir. It means that as Indians, we belong to all places and to everyone.

The last time around, the prime minister said that this sense of belonging beyond the borders is unique to India. What he did not say then or now is that both the Sanskrit and Tamil lines spoke only the language of love, caring and sharing, commodities that have been in the Indian DNA for millennia, and are in short supply elsewhere. Right now, India needs to produce the promising and promised pandemic vaccine and share it with the world, which the patent-conscious West would not dare. The world could be Indias, and possibly Indias alone then!

N Sathiya Moorthy

Distinguished Fellow and Head-Chennai Initiative, Observer Research Foundation

(sathiyam54@nsathiyamoorthy.com)
Maharashtra: Arambol fishermen urge govt to take action on Maharashtra fishing trawlers

October 01,2020 | Source: Herald

Fishermen from Arambol on Saturday urged the government to take action on Maharashtra fishing trawlers. A meeting was convened by Coastal Police Inspector Dattaram Raut with the fishermen from Pernem coastal belt. During the meeting, the fishermen highlighted the issues that they are facing to carry out the fishing activity their jurisdiction.



Fishermen claimed that the fishing trawlers from Maharashtra enter into the jurisdiction of local fishermen due to which they do not get expected quantity of fish which cause them loss in thousands of rupees every day.



Fishermen said that these trawlers from Maharashtra stay in water throughout the day and take away all types of fish due to which local small time fishermen do not get enough quantity. Fishermen demanded that these trawlers should not be allowed to operate within five kilometre of jurisdiction of coast. They also said that these trawlers move around haphazardly and further destroy their nets and other fishing equipment which again add to their loss. Fishermen demanded that these trawlers should not allowed to enter jurisdiction of five-km from Goan coast as well if any trawlers crosses the line then they should be fined or action should be taken on the same by the coastal police.
During the first presidential debate on Tuesday night, when moderator Chris Wallace asked President Donald Trump if he would be willing, tonight, to condemn white supremacists and militia groups, and to say that they need to stand down, the President seemed to many to do the opposite.

Proud Boys, he said, stand back and stand by.

While it wouldnt be the first time the President failed to condemn white supremacists, his most recent commentdirected at an organization founded in New York City during the 2016 presidential election season and designated a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Centerconfused even members of his own party. On Wednesday morning, Tim Scott, a Black Republican U.S. Senator from South Carolina, told reporters that he thought the President misspoke and should correct it.

Speaking to reporters later that day, Trump indeed walked back his comments, asserting that he did not even know of the Proud Boys before former Vice President Joe Biden mentioned them in the debate as an example of a militia group. (At least one outlet has linked former Trump adviser Roger Stone to the group, and President Trumps FBI has called them an extremist group.)

"I don't know who the proud boys are," Trump tells reporters on the South Lawn, per pool. He adds: "Whoever they are, they need to stand down"  Josh Lederman (@JoshNBCNews) September 30, 2020

Members of the Proud Boys, however, saw his remarks differently, celebrating online and vowing to stand by, an expert monitoring their social media posts told TIME. On Twitter, Kathleen Belew, author of Bring the War Home: The White Power Movement and Paramilitary America and an assistant professor of History at the University of Chicago, warned that such an interpretation was no surprise: Trumps shout-out sounded like a call to arms, she wrotea green light that could be catastrophic.

Story continues

And, Belew noted, the story goes beyond any one organization. Though the Proud Boys were the only group mentioned by name during the debate, they are part of a movement that goes back decades, if not generations. TIME spoke to Belew about the origins of that movement and where the Proud Boys fit in that history.

TIME: Whats going on in American history when the movement that produced the Proud Boys begins?

BELEW: Right after the Vietnam War, there was this huge narrative about the government betraying soldiers in Vietnam. The far right was able to use that narrative to bring together a whole bunch of people who had not been able to band together in common cause before. Here, Im talking about Klansmen, Neo-Nazis, radical tax resisters, followers of a white religion called Christian Identity, and a whole bunch of white separatists and white supremacists. They all came together in the late 1970s and called themselves the white-power movement.

At the Aryan Nations World Congress [in 1983], several people reported that there was a meeting where activists decided to wage war on the federal government. Nobody was in the room who wasnt an activist so we have to take everything they say with a grain of salt, but we can measure a real change in movement tactics after that meeting, where they started doing things like targeting infrastructure and government agents. They have no more hope for political change at that point. The kinds of changes these activists wanted were so extreme that even under Reagan, even under a conservative Executive, they didnt think they could ever achieve things they wanted.

From 1983 forward, were talking about a movement that is fundamentally opposed to democracy and to the United States as a nation; when people talk about white nationalism, the nation in white nationalism is not the United States. The nation in white nationalism is the Aryan nation. So right away were talking about a fundamentally more violent and radical thing than most people think about when they hear the word nationalism.

Then across the 1980s and 1990s, this movement begins to figure out how to capitalize on changing culture in order to bring in bigger and bigger groups of people. The first group it brings in are the skinheads in late 1980s. The skinheads are a lot younger. Theyre in cities instead of in rural areas and suburbs, and it lets the movement get this inflow of younger membership. And then the second thing that happens is the militias.

How would you define a militia in this context?



The paramilitary white-power movement in the 1980s has often been thought of as separate from the militia movement, but actually I think its more instructive to think about them as a Venn diagram. The larger circle is the militia movement, and then mostly, but not entirely contained inside it is a smaller but much more violent and radical white-power movement. There are militiamen and militia groups that are not white power, but there are very few white-power groups in the 1990s that are not militia.

All of it is paramilitary and by that I just mean characterized by military uniforms, language, weapons, et cetera, even though its not conducted within the military. They tend to be highly organized, and they tend to be organized most vociferously around opposing the federal government and around gun rights. So a white power militia would take that frame and then add on a whole bunch of stufffor instance, the assumed attack on the white birth rate and things like that.

From the 1990s forward, the guns, the weapons, the people, the money flow from those earlier white-power groups into militias. That gets us to the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995, the largest deliberate mass casualty on American soil between Pearl Harbor and 9/11. But most people still dont understand what it was and or what it meant. That bombing was the work of a movement, not a few disaffected people.

Hundreds of far-right Proud Boys and their supporters held a rally in Delta Park in Portland, Ore., on Sept. 26, 2020. Mark PetersonRedux

Is that building targeted for a certain reason? What did it mean to white power groups?

It has structural-integrity advantages. It has a glass facade and a place you can park a truck. It also housed federal government employees, and so it was seen as a hit on the federal government. After the Oklahoma City bombing, there was an upflow in militia activity, and then also a whole bunch of people began to use the Internet much more. Its important to note they had been online since 1983 and 1984.

How are they online that early?

They are way early. They are pioneers. What theyre using is early computer message boards that are code-word accessed. On the message board they posted things like ideologies, but also things like personal ads. So effectively what they were doing was Facebook before Facebook was even invented.

Where do the Proud Boys fit into this history?

Fast forward to now: What were seeing is the re-emergence of something that has been there this whole time. Id characterize Proud Boys as a group that straddles the line between militia and a white-supremacist fight club. Its commonly noted they are in some instances a multiethnic group. Weirdly this is not that atypical, but it is a white-supremacist group. They do believe in the primacy of western culture, and they believe that other places are dirty and degraded. They dont like Islam. They dont think very highly of women.

For me, the Trump comment, however he meant it, was heard by white-power activists as a call to arms. This has been a paramilitary movement that very easily understands what stand by means in the context of a military campaign. That means [be] preparedly ready. He didnt say stand down, which means something completely different. And we know that has hit home with these groups. We see them incorporating it in their slogans and badges. We see them retweeting about it all the time. To me, its not even just about the Proud Boys; its about all of the other groups that are emboldened by this. Even if Trump didnt mean it, its very difficult to unring this particular bell.

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And Wednesday, when he was speaking to reporters, he did say whoever they are, stand down.



The important thing is how they heard it, because I think it will very likely result in violence, and you just cannot undo a statement like that. And also, not for nothing, a Proud Boys [member was was at least partly] responsible for [organizing] the Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville. So for Trump not to know about them is a flagrant failure of his presidency.

How do the militia groups that expand after the Oklahoma City Bombing compare to the militias that existed in the early U.S.?

Thats a great question. Absolutely not. The militias Im describing are just late 1980s forward. What weve seen before that like, the Second Amendment militias in early America, has not existed since the Dick Act [of 1903]. The act incorporates militias into the National Guard. Theyre regulated. Historians of early America wouldnt recognize these [modern] militias as a continuation of that tradition.

What about vigilante racial violence in the Jim Crow era? How are present-day militias connected to that history?

This is part of that longer thread of vigilante violence for sure. And by vigilante, I simply mean extralegal violence that is attempting to preserve status quo power or systemic power. With my undergraduates, I get into a definitional debate [about] when something stops being vigilante and begins to be revolutionary meaning, at what point do you stop supporting the system of power thats already in place and start attempting to overthrow it?

The white-power movement has mostly been a revolutionary movementand I say that in no positive connotation at all but rather to just say, it has mostly been interested in overthrowing the federal government rather than supporting it. So I think one of the questions people ought to have is, if these groups were to come out and support Trump in some way, what would they do after that? Because I dont think that all of them are genuine supporters of any American leader.

Do the culture wars that are getting going in the late 1970s, the 1980s and the 1990s play a role in fanning the flames of the white-power movement?

Yes and no. The people who join the white power movement largely do so because they dont see another place for themselves in the nation. So part of that has to do with feeling unrepresented in the culture, part of that has to do with rising fundamentalism, not that those are the same thing, but theyre overlapping Venn diagram circles. Then of course, theres the post-Vietnam frustration, general economic frustration, so some of it is coming out of the historical context.

But actually, one of the interesting things I found in my research is that the best predictor for rises in Klan activity across American history has been the aftermath of warfare. Its more consistent than poverty, than civil rights legislation, than immigration surges. The best predictor is the aftermath of warfare, and turns out that thats not just about veterans; all of us get more violent in the aftermath of warfare. My undergraduates dont remember a time when we were not at war, and what that aftermath period looks like in the present is one of the big open questions about this historical moment.

Why would warfare make people feel this way? Was this about veterans struggle for re-entry?

Thats the question I had that started the book. It turns out there are also a lot of people who werent there and didnt fight but claim the war as part of their identity anyway, so I think it has to do with how all of our society is mobilized in wartime. Doing violence somewhere else ricochets back into the nation in ways that we dont always anticipate.

Are there myths you often find yourself debunking or misconceptions you often find yourself setting the record straight on?

People should really push back when they read about a lone wolf. There are such things as individual acts of violence, and even mass violence or apolitical acts of mass violence, but there is not a white-power lone wolf attack. It is a movement.

Have white-power groups motives evolved over time?

Yes and no. They tack onto the prevailing frustrations of the moment. Theyre always trying to recruit.

When you say the white power movement tacks onto whats happening in the news, have any notable examples galvanized them recently?

I think the Trump election is what brought this to Charlottesville, but then Charlottesville brings them to the next event. It springs up from itself once it gets going, so its a momentum kind of thing. One of the concerning things today is that we are in a rising tide kind of a moment. Its going to keep going up until we stop it.
(CNN)  The Louisville police officer who fatally shot Breonna Taylor is currently raising money to fund his retirement.

Detective Myles Cosgrove was one of three Louisville officers who fired shots into Taylor's apartment last March after breaking in to serve a search warrant related to Taylor's ex-boyfriend.

Taylor, an emergency room technician, died from multiple gunshot wounds sustained in the botched raid.

Now, Cosgrove is seeking funds on the "Christian crowdfunding site" GiveSendGo so he can "purchase the remainder of his service time" and retire, according to the fundraiser's description. He wants to focus on his family's safety, which, per the description, has been threatened since protests erupted after Taylor's killing.

"Myles' reputation has been completely dismantled and the psychological trauma is something that he will have to cope with for the rest of his life," the fundraiser description reads.

Jarrod Beck, an attorney for Cosgrove, confirmed to CNN that the page was set up by members of Cosgrove's family but declined to comment further. CNN also reached out to GiveSendGo to comment on the campaign and is waiting to hear back.

The detective is currently seeking $75,000 and, as of Wednesday morning, has raised over $9,000.

The Louisville Courier Journal was the first to report about the fundraiser.

Cosgrove and Officer Jonathan Mattingly were two of the three officers present the night of March 13 when Taylor was killed.

Neither were indicted for their actions that night, though Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron said Cosgrove fired the fatal shot  which he said was justified because Taylor's boyfriend fired at officers first.

A third officer, Brett Hankison, has been indicted on three counts of wanton endangerment in the first degree for firing blindly into an adjoining apartment that was occupied.

Hankison has pleaded not guilty.

Cameron told CNN affiliate WDRB that he didn't seek murder charges against Cosgrove or Mattingly.

The grand jury's decision to indict only one of the officers involved in her death, and on Class D felony charges, the lowest of four classes of felonies, outraged Louisville protesters. Last week, two Louisville officers were shot at a protest and dozens of demonstrators, including Kentucky's only Black woman legislator, were arrested.

GiveSendGo hosts fundraisers for Kyle Rittenhouse and Kenosha officer

GiveSendGo currently hosts fundraisers for two other accused gunmen: Kyle Rittenhouse, the 17-year-old charged with first-degree murder for allegedly shooting and killing two people in Kenosha, Wisconsin, during protests against the police shooting of Jacob Blake; and Rusten Sheskey, the Kenosha officer who shot Jacob Blake. The campaigns have raised over $500,000 and $30,000 respectively.

GiveSendGo didn't immediately respond to CNN's requests for comment, but in a release published following backlash for hosting Rittenhouse's legal fund, co-founder of GiveSendGo Heather Wilson said the platform allows campaigns "even if we don't agree with them" as long as the methods of funding are legal.

CNN's Ray Sanchez and Mark Morales contributed reporting to this story.

This story was first published on CNN.com "The police officer who fatally shot Breonna Taylor is crowdfunding money to retire"
Nevada to vote on scrapping man-woman definition of marriage in state Constitution

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Voters in Nevada will decide in November whether to change the text of the state Constitution to remove language defining marriage as a union between only one man and one woman.

Nevada is one of the about 30 states that passed a constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage before such rules were struck down by the 2015 Supreme Court decision, Obergefell v. Hodges, which established a right to same-sex marriage nationwide.

However, the text of the amendment remains in the Nevada Constitution even though it is unenforceable.

In 2017, former Assemblyman Nelson Araujo and state Sen. David Parks, both Democrats, introduced Joint Resolution 2, which would amend Section 21 of Article 1 of the Nevada Constitution to reflect the fact that the Obergefell decision made it unenforceable.

Last year, the Nevada legislature voted so that the question will appear on the ballot as Question 2 this fall.

If Question 2 passes, the text of Section 21 of Article 1 of the Nevada Constitution will be revised to read The State of Nevada and its political subdivisions shall recognize marriages and issue marriage licenses to couples regardless of gender.

The language offers a caveat that Religious organizations and members of the clergy have the right to refuse to solemnize a marriage, and no person has the right to make any claim against a religious organization or member of the clergy for such a refusal.

The proposal stresses that all legally valid marriages must be treated equally under the law.

Supporters of Question 2 include the American Civil Liberties Union of Nevada, the pro-LGBT advocacy organization Human Rights Campaign and Planned Parenthood Advocates.

Proponents formed the Yes on Question 2 coalition earlier this month.

According to Ballotpedia, Nevada is the first state to leave it up to voters to repeal a constitutional amendment that bars same-sex marriage or defines marriage as between one man and one woman.

According to a 2017 poll conducted by the Public Religion Research Institute, 70% of Nevadans support same-sex marriage while 23% oppose it.

Nevadas Question 2 is one of several high-profile ballot initiatives that voters will have the opportunity to weigh in on this fall.

In another western state, Colorado, voters will decide the fate of Proposition 115, which would ban abortions after 22 weeks of gestation.

Currently, Colorado is one of only seven states that does not have any restrictions on abortion.

In Louisiana, voters will weigh in on Amendment 1, which, if passed, will add language to the state Constitution declaring that nothing in this constitution shall be construed to secure or protect a right to abortion or require the funding of abortion.

Similar measures passed in West Virginia and Alabama in 2018.

Residents of Arizona, Montana, New Jersey and South Dakota will vote on the legalization of recreational marijuana, while Mississippi voters will decide whether or not to approve the legalization of medical marijuana in their state.

Californians will vote on a ballot measure that would overturn Proposition 209, the 1996 ballot initiative supported by a majority of the states voters that prevented the use of race as a factor when considering employment applications and university admissions.
NEW DELHI: India continues to report a trend of steadily declining active COVID-19 cases as a percentage of the total positive cases in the country, as per the Health and Family Welfare Ministry. Presently the active cases constitute only 15.11% of the total positive COVID-19 cases of the country, standing at 9,40,441.

From 33.32 % on 1st August to 15.11% on 30th September, the active cases have less than halved in two months, according to the Health Ministry. The continuous upward trajectory of Indias recovery rate has touched 83.33% today. 86,428 have recovered and discharged in the last 24 hours.

The total recovered cases stand at 51,87,825. The gap between Recovered cases and Active cases has crossed 42 lakh (42,47,384). With an increasing number of recoveries, this gap is continuously widening.

With the decreasing active caseload in the country, the active patients are sustained below 10 lakhs since 22nd September.

More than 76% of the Active Cases are concentrated in 10 States viz. Maharashtra, Karnataka , Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Assam, Chhattisgarh and Telangana. Maharashtra contributes maximum with more than 2,60,000 active cases.

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Following the TEST, TRACK, TRACE, TREAT, TECHNOLOGY strategy, States and UTs are registering speedy recoveries. 14 States & UTs have less than 5,000 active cases.

10 States/UTs contribute 78% of the total recovered Cases. Maharashtra leads the tally with more than 10,00,000 recoveries followed by Andhra Pradesh with more than 6,00,000 cases.

80,472 new confirmed cases were recorded in last 24 hours. 76% of the new cases are from 10 States and UTs. Maharashtra has contributed the maximum to the new cases with nearly 15,000 cases followed by Karnataka with more than 10,000 cases.

1,179 case fatalities have been reported in the past 24 hours. Of these, nearly 85% are concentrated in ten State/UTs of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Delhi, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh.

More than 36% of new fatalities reported are from Maharashtra (430 deaths).

As on Thursday, India`s coronavirus COVID-19 tally has mounted to 63,12,584 cases with a spike of 86,821 coronavirus cases and 1,181 deaths in the past 24 hours. Out of the total cases, 9,40,705 are currently active, 52,73,201 have been discharged, while 98,678 lost the battle against the viral disease, the Union Health Ministry data said.

While the recovery rate stands at a whooping high of 83.53 per cent, the fatality rate has come down to 1.56 per cent, the data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.

Maharashtra continues to be the worst-hit with a total of 13,84,446 cases, including 36,662 deaths; followed by Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi. Maharashtra contributes the maximum number of active cases which is over 260,000.

According to the data from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), India conducted 14,23,052 sample tests in a single day on Wednesday, taking the total number of samples tested so far to 7,56,19,781.

The ministry pointed out speedy recoveries were being registered by states and union territories (UTs) after following the 5T strategy, i.e. test, track, trace, treat, technology strategy. Ten states and UTs contribute 78 per cent of the total recovered cases.
VIRGINIA  To start the month of October, the Virginia Department of Health coronavirus dashboard showed one of the lower new case totals in recent months. On Thursday, 450 new cases were reported, bringing the cumulative case total to 148,721.

The breakdown of new cases by region is 147 in the southwest region, 121 in the northwest region, 71 in the northern region, 60 in the eastern region, and 51 in the central region. The seven-day average of new cases across Virginia is now 747, compared to 997 on Sept. 1.

The positive average of PCR tests remains at 4.5 percent, below the 5 percent rate recommended by the World Health Organization before reopening. Four regions have averages in the 4-percent range  the northwest and eastern regions with 4.4 percent, northern region with 4.3 percent and central region with 4.1 percent. The southwest region has an average above the statewide average  5.7 percent. The total of PCR tests completed in Virginia stands at 2,074,236, up 24,248 from Wednesday.

Hospitalizations of COVID-19 patients stand at 913 statewide on Thursday. The breakdown of hospital patients by region is 282 in the central region, 199 in the northern region, 178 in the eastern region, 168 in the southwest region, and 86 in the northwest region.

The current hospitalizations include 210 in the intensive care units and 107 on ventilators, according to the Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association. Ventilator use stands at 20 percent among all Virginia patients, and ICU occupancy remains at 79 percent. There are no hospitals reporting difficulty obtaining personal protective equipment in the next 72 hours.

Here is the latest breakdown of cases, hospitalizations and deaths by age group:



Ages 0-9: 5,452 cases, 93 hospitalizations, 0 deaths

10-19: 14,557 cases, 120 hospitalizations, 1 death

20-29: 30,950 cases, 472 hospitalizations, 7 deaths

30-39: 25,471 cases, 961 hospitalizations, 29 deaths

40-49: 22,941 cases, 1,427 hospitalizations, 87 deaths

50-59: 20,816 cases, 2,037 hospitalizations, 223 deaths

60-69: 13,616 cases, 2,218 hospitalizations, 506 deaths

70-79: 7,226 cases, 1,938 hospitalizations, 820 deaths

80 and up: 6,441 cases, 1,807 hospitalizations, 1,551 deaths

Not reported: 1,251 cases, 19 hospitalizations, 4 deaths

Story continues

Here are the latest coronavirus data updates for our coverage area between Tuesday and Wednesday:

Alexandria: 3,859 cases, 324 hospitalizations, 69 deaths; increase of seven cases and one hospitalization

Arlington County: 3,997 cases, 500 hospitalizations, 150 deaths; increase of two cases

Fairfax County: 21,018 cases, 2,166 hospitalizations, 588 deaths; increase of 37 cases and six hospitalizations

Fairfax City: 137 cases, 14 hospitalizations, eight deaths; no changes

Falls Church: 71 cases, 13 hospitalizations, seven deaths; increase of one case

Loudoun County: 6,887 cases, 436 hospitalizations, 126 deaths; two cases removed, increase of one hospitalization and one death

Manassas: 1,931 cases, 130 hospitalizations, 26 deaths; no changes

Manassas Park: 613 cases, 55 hospitalizations, eight deaths; one case removed

Prince William County: 12,594 cases, 919 hospitalizations, 207 deaths; increase of 27 cases, four hospitalizations and two deaths

Fredericksburg: 549 cases, 49 hospitalizations, five deaths; increase of two cases

Spotsylvania County: 2,161 cases, 136 hospitalizations, 46 deaths; increase of eight cases, two hospitalizations and two deaths

Stafford County: 2,039 cases, 161 hospitalizations, 17 deaths; increase of 11 cases and one hospitalization

MORE COVERAGE:

This article originally appeared on the Greater Alexandria Patch
Premier Mark McGowan continues to defend his 'hard border' stance despite the latest advice from WAs Chief Health Officer suggesting the WA government could open borders to low-risk states if it was happy with their COVID-19 battle plans.

The hard border has been in place since April, but has been criticised by the federal government and high-profile business figures including AFL chairman Richard Goyder as being too restrictive. It is also the subject of a High Court challenge by billionaire Clive Palmer.

Mr McGowan always insisted the hard border was based on health advice from WAs Chief Health Officer, Andrew Robertson. Under that advice, for the border to be lifted every Australian state would need to record no community transmission cases for 28 days.

Health advice provided by the state's top doctor to the Premier on September 25 stated it could be safe for WA to open borders to low-risk states if Mr McGowan was satisfied with their border controls.
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) on September 25 announced the launch of its new space toilet worth $23 million for the future missions to the moon and mars. In a press release by NASA, it said that the agency is working on setting up a Universal Waste Management System (UWMS) on the International Space Station (ISS) by September 29 on the Northrop Grumman's 14th contract resupply mission. The new UWMS will be installed in Orion for the Artemis II flight test.

Here's how space toilet works

NASA astronaut Jessica Meir in the press release said, We recycle about 90% of all water-based liquids on the space station, including urine and sweat. We recycle about 90% of all water-based liquids on the space station, including urine and sweat.

The UWMS has been designed using the central design concept so that it can be integrated into different spacecraft and life support systems. The regenerative system of the UWMS will recycle the pre-treated urine into the water for further use. Also, it could simply be stored for disposal during the shorter missions, such as the Artemis II. The new UWMS is said to be 65% smaller and 40% lighter than the toilet currently in use on the space station and it can also support larger crews.

Read: NASA Targets Halloween For Next Manned SpaceX Mission To Deconflict Soyuz Arrival

(Credits: NASA)

Read: NASA Launched Discovery Into Orbit On This Day In 1988; All About The Manned Space Shuttle

(A team member demonstrates lifting the urine hose out of its cradled position. Credit: NASA)

Usually, when there is no gravity, space toilets use air flow to pull urine and feces away from the body. However, the new feature of the UWMS allows the automatic start of air flow when the toilet lid is lifted. This feature also helps in controlling the odour. According to NASA, the UWMS are corrosion-resistant, durable parts to reduce the likelihood of maintenance outside of the set schedule. NASA also added that less time on plumbing means more time on science and other tasks. A 3D-printed titanium dual-fan separator on the units was designed by Collins Aerospace to control the airflow.

Read: Asteroid 2020 SY4 To Swing By Earth On September 28, Says NASA

(For privacy, the toilet is located inside of a stall just like in a public restroom on Earth. Credits: NASA)

According to the reports by Space.com, expedition 63 astronauts, Chris Cassidy and Ivan Vagner have started preparing for the delivery of space toilets. NASA Advanced Exploration Systems Logistics Reduction project manager Melissa McKinley, said during the press conference, The toilet was designed for exploration and it builds on previous spaceflight toilet design. She added, The big key to the exploration piece of the design is looking to optimize mass volume and power usage, which are all very important components of a spacecraft design.

Read: NASA Expert Suspects 'mini-moon' About To Enter Earth's Orbit Is Old Space Junk From 1960s

Also Read: NASA Shares An Intriguing Image Of Jupiter's Violent Stormy Atmosphere; See Here

(Image Credits: NASA)
Derby-based engineering giant has seen business decimated by Covid-19

FTSE 100-listed company has seen share price drop by 80% this year

Shares in ailing engineering giant Rolls-Royce have fallen to the lowest level for over 16 years today, as the group continues to be hammered by the global slowdown in aviation travel triggered by Covid-19.

This morning, shares in FTSE 100-listed Rolls-Royce, which have plunged by 80 per cent this year alone, are down 6.19 per cent or 8.05p to 121.95p, close to levels seen back in 2003.

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Rolls-Royce has today announced plans to raise 5billion in a bid to to bolster its balance sheet amid a 'sharp deterioration' in civil aerospace business.

Ending weeks of speculation about how it planned to move forward with its finances, the aircraft engine maker has today confirmed it will tap shareholders for 2billion via a rights issue.

As part of the rights issue, Rolls-Royce shareholders will be offered 10 shares at 32p for every three they own, marking a discount of just over 40 per cent of yesterday's 130p closing price.

On top of that, the company will seek Government support for a new debt package of up to 3billion to try and boost its finances.

The group said: 'Having considered a number of different scenarios, and in particular a 'reasonable worst case' scenario, we have determined that it is in the best interests of shareholders.'

Derby-based Rolls-Royce said the fundraising would help it weather wider economic risks from the pandemic, which has hammered the aerospace industry.

It comes on top of a major restructuring announced by Rolls-Royce in May that will see it axe at least 9,000 jobs globally in response to the crisis, 3,000 of which will be in the UK.

Around 4,800 roles had already gone by the end of August and 5,000 or more will go by January, it said.

The company has called off talks to sell a hefty stake in its business to Asian and Middle Eastern sovereign investors in recent days.

Rolls-Royce shut down talks with sovereign wealth funds in Kuwait and Singapore in the last few days amid opposition from existing shareholders who did not want to see their stakes diluted.

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Last month, Rolls-Royce revealed the company slid to a 5.4billion half-year loss as it was battered by the downturn in air travel.

Today, it said revenues and underlying earnings remained 'materially' lower for the first eight months of the year. It is not expecting to return to strong cash generation until 2022.

Warren East, chief executive of Rolls-Royce, said today: 'The sudden and material effect of the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the commercial aviation industry, resulting in a sharp deterioration in the financial performance of our Civil Aerospace business and, to a lesser extent, our Power Systems business.

'We are undertaking decisive and transformative action to fundamentally restructure our operations, materially reduce our cost base and improve our financial position.

'The capital raise announced today improves our resilience to navigate the current uncertain operating environment.

'By raising additional capital now, we will improve our liquidity headroom and reduce our level of balance sheet leverage, while supporting disciplined execution and investment to ensure we maximise value from our existing capabilities.'

Rolls-Royce is cutting 9,000 jobs globally as it battles to stay afloat during the pandemic

Is Rolls-Royce taking the right course of action?

Michael Hewson, chief economist at CMC Markets UK, said: 'Rolls Royce clearly needs the cash to shore up its balance sheet, given the sharp drop in revenues it has experienced in the last few months, and which is likely to continue for some time to come.

'The continued procrastination however is not helping, and last night's news that it had called off its talks with KIO and Singapore's sovereign wealth fund closed off another avenue for the business.

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'It's being reported that the failure of talks was due to opposition from existing shareholders, which is fair enough, but then these existing shareholders need to come up with alternatives or face the breakup of the business.

'A vote will be held on the deal on 27th October, where shareholders will have the opportunity to either put up or shut up.

'Today's announcement that Rolls Royce will be launching a 1bn bond issue as well as a 2bn 10 for 3 rights issue at a 41 per cent discount to 130p is therefore long overdue, and will hopefully be well received by the same recalcitrant shareholders who were reluctant to dilute their stakes with funds from overseas.'
Coronavirus testing has uncovered 170 positive cases of Covid-19 at a major pork processing site in Cornwall.

Five hundred workers at Pilgrim's Pride in Pool, near Camborne, have been tested as part of an NHS contact tracing exercise.

Most of the staff who tested positive for the virus did not exhibit any symptoms.

Pilgrim's Pride, a multinational processor which employs more than 50,000 people and operates in the US, UK and Europe, said that 'from the outset' the firm had 'worked conscientiously to do all we can to protect our workforce and the local community'.

Cornwall Council confirmed those staff members with Covid-19 were now isolating in line with government regulations.

"In total, almost 500 employees at the factory have been tested and the vast majority of the cases who tested positive were not displaying symptoms," the council said.

Rachel Wigglesworth, interim director for Public Health for Cornwall Council, added: "In finding people who weren't displaying symptoms we have potentially stopped much wider spread in our communities".

It comes as 18 factory workers at a Bernard Matthews turkey processing site in Suffolk tested positive for the coronavirus earlier this week.

Public health officials tested 100 members of staff who work at the plant, located in Holton, near Halesworth.

Bernard Matthews said those who tested positive for Covid-19 - from the Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft areas - were now self-isolating.

The turkey processor employs around 1,000 people at the Suffolk site.
The jobs of almost three million people working for small businesses are at risk because of Rishi Sunak's "flawed" job support scheme, Labour has warned.

Shadow chancellor Annelise Dodds accused the chancellor of "pulling up the drawbridge" on workers who had put their faith in him and forcing employers to choose which staff to keep and which to fire.

Thursday marks a critical deadline for jobs as it is one month until the furlough scheme ends and firms that wish to make 20 to 100 staff redundant must start 30-day consultations or face paying more in wages.

The new scheme that replaces furlough incentivises employers in financial trouble to sack staff by making it more expensive to keep two people on reduced hours than to sack one and keep the other.

Viable businesses that need support to cope with restrictions imposed on them by the government now face tough decisions.

They pinned their hopes on the Chancellor to deliver, but hes pulling up the drawbridge at the worst possible time," Ms Dodds said.

This wasnt by accident  it was by design. This sink or swim mentality is a throwback to the worst days of Thatcher, and just like in the 1980s people on the lowest incomes will pay the highest price.

Some 2.8 million people working for small and medium-sized firms were furloughed under the Job Retention Scheme, Labour estimates.

While many of those will have since been brought back to work, new national restrictions imposed last week, as well as local lockdowns across much of the North of England mean that around 133,000 SMEs cannot operate at all or are trading at reduced capacity, according to the party's figures.

Restaurants, licensed clubs and event operators are among those worst affected.

Over a million SMEs are also still experiencing a fall in turnover, with approximately 310,000 turning over less than half what they did over the same period last year.

Labour calculates that bringing back one bar manager full-time will cost 455.30 per week, but it would cost 610.89 for the same bar to bring back two workers for half their working week, a difference of 155.60

Ms Dodds called for an urgent meeting with her opposite number to discuss the scheme and better support for workers.

Citizens Advice warned of a bleak winter after a sharp rise in the number of callers worried about losing their job when the furlough scheme ends.

Recommended Greggs hints it may have to cut jobs when furlough scheme ends

Andy Gillett, a telephone advice manager at Citizens Advice Blackpool, says: "Work worries are really ramping up. With the end of the furlough scheme in just a few short weeks, a lot of people feel like they're in the waiting room for a redundancy.

"There's a sense of underlying anxiety, but at the same time people are trying to be practical, for example asking how they'd go about claiming benefits or what they can do about their bills if they suddenly lose their income.

"The hardest thing is people saying that if they lose their job there wont easily be another to go into - for many, thats the reality of the labour market."

Dame Gillian Guy, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice, said: The furlough scheme has been an extraordinary intervention, but as it draws to a close we could face a bleak winter of redundancies.

The Chancellor has acknowledged that the new Job Support Scheme wont protect every job. While people look for work its critical our benefits system provides a strong enough safety net.

Making the 20 uplift to Universal Credit permanent would provide some much-needed security as we weather this storm.
By Express News Service

CHENNAI: Wearing masks while stepping outside the house is mandatory and they should cover the mouth and nose, Health Secretary Dr J Radhakrishnan said on Thursday.

Interacting with vendors from shopping complexes in Alandur, Radhakrishnan said that people must also practise social distancing of two metres.

People must strictly follow these measures especially when they go to crowded places like railway stations, bus stands, government offices, hospitals, vegetable markets, places of religious worship, and cloth shops," said Radhakrishnan.

He said people must not touch their masks with their hands and should wash them after they are used. The health secretary also advised people not to dispose of masks along with other garbage in public places.

He warned that people who do not wear masks outside their homes would be fined Rs 200, as per section 1939 of the Tamil Nadu Public Health Act, while people who spit in public places and those who do not maintain social distancing will be fined Rs 500.

The Health Secretary along with corporation officials inspected many shopping complexes in the city on Thursday.
Stress is also what makes the annual admiring of foliage  aka leaf peeping  so poignant this pandemic year. The trees are stressed, yet so is everyone else, said David Lorenz, vice president of Travel Michigan, the agency that produces those nearly somnolent, stress-relieving Pure Michigan tourism spots. Scientifically, foliage is all sacrifice and hunkering down  leaves change colors because their trees are prepping for months of austerity. Aesthetically, fall foliage is all metaphor and melancholy. Because nothing gold can stay (Robert Frost), we spend three too-short months noticing what Gwendolyn Brooks called summer-gone. We wonder if leaves dream how comfortable it will be to touch the earth (Mary Oliver). We ascribe to foliage our own need for calm.
AirAsia-backed BigPay has revealed that it is considering different options to bid for a digital banking licence in Malaysia, including teaming up with a strategic partner for the effort or making the bid on its own. This comes alongside the announcement of BigPays expansion into Singapore, bringing its payments and remittance services to the neighbouring country.

We have a strong team and strong product. We have many products that resemble what a virtual bank looks like, and we dont need to rebuild. But were open to working with strategic partners. Many people reach out to us and were considering our options, said the chief executive officer and co-founder of BigPay, Christopher Davison.

Davison also said that the acquisition of a digital licence will add to BigPays existing e-money (payment) and remittance features, enabling it to carry out functions similar to a bank. BigPay will then also be able to grow its business in any of these three core pillars for commercial banking.

Our product is the most bank app-like product, and it is fully converted into a digital bank. The only difference between the product that we offer and what a banking licence would allow us to offer, is offering interests on deposits and for us to lend, Davison elaborated.

Davison also added that BigPay has been in close contact with Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) despite the delayed rollout of the digital banking licences. BNM had extended the consultation period for its digital banking regulatory framework from 30 April 2020 to 30 June 2020 considering disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. Aside from BigPay, other contenders for the digital banking licence include Razer, Grab, AirAsia, Sunway Group, and MPay.

Davison further stressed that while BigPay has benefited from AirAsias distribution platform as an entity linked to the airline, the fintech company is also highly diversified and not dependent on just travel or airline. At present, BigPay is one of the largest e-money issuers in Malaysia by gross transaction value, with a record of 1.2 million users. Its business is rooted primarily in international money transfers and online spending, spurred by the worldwide acceptance of its Visa card.

In the upcoming weeks, BigPay will bring its mobile money app and prepaid Visa card to Singapore after receiving its operating licence from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) early this year.

The fintech company will be offering its two key features  payments and remittance  to the republic state. With regard to payments, users will be able to seamlessly open accounts from their mobile phones and make payments at any local or international merchants. They can also make free and instant money transfers, split bills, manage work expenses, and track their expenses in one integrated app. Remittance-wise, Singapore users can send money quickly and at a competitive rate for up to 10 markets, including Malaysia, China, and Australia.

BigPay said that it has quietly opened its waiting list on the app earlier this year for the expansion exercise to Singapore. Since then, the fintech company has garnered 20,000 people ready to get early access to its services. BigPay also have plans to launch new business lines, such as loans, insurance, and wealth management, as well as to expand to other Southeast Asian markets in early 2021.

(Source: The Sun Daily)

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October 01 : Hollywood Legends Jackie Chan and Arnold Schwarzenegger are working together for the second time on-screen for the forthcoming Iron Mask, the official trailer for the film is out.

Iron Mask, directed by Oleg Stephchenko and written by Dmitri Palees, Alexey Petrukhin, and Stephchenko, is a sequel to the massive box-office hit, Forbidden Empire/Viy.

It stars Jason Flemyng, Charles Dance, the late Rutger Hauer, Jackie Chan, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Helen Yao.

The official plot synopsis reads something like this: "Set in the 18th century, the film follows the continuing exploits of cartographer Jonathan Green (Flemyng) as he undertakes a scientific and supernatural journey that leads him from England to China.

It was also revealed that members of the Jackie Chan Stunt Team would be helping out in choreographing the fights for the film.

Surprisingly both the superstars are actually playing secondary characters in 'Iron Mask' which has British actor Jason Flemyng and Helen Yao in the lead. But the fact remains that the selling point as the tag line suggests is for the collision scenes of the two legends not to forget the dragon and other fantasy elements.

The film is expected to release in theaters and streaming platforms in November.
By PTI

LUCKNOW: A senior Uttar Pradesh police officer said on Thursday said the forensic report has revealed that the 19-year-old Hathras woman who succumbed to her injuries at a Delhi hospital was not raped.

Citing a forensic science laboratory (FSL) report, ADG (Law and Order) Prashant Kumar said the cause of her death is an injury on the neck and trauma resulting due to it.

"The report of the FSL has also come.

It says clearly that samples did not have sperm.

It makes clear that there was no rape or gang rape," Kumar said.

"Even the woman in her statement to police did not mention about rape but talked about 'marpeet' (beating) only, he said.

"For disturbing social harmony and create caste violence, some persons wrongly presented facts," the UP police officer said.

"Police took immediate action in the case and now we will identify those who tried to disturb social harmony and create caste violence," the ADG added, stressing that people "distorted facts" in the media.

The officer said taking note of the matter, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had constituted a special investigation team to probe the incident.

Those involved in the act will not be spared.

But before the medical report, wrong statements pointing fingers on the government and police to malign their image were made.

We will examine who are doing this.

This is a serious matter.

The government and police are sensitive to crime-related to women," he said.

The ADG claimed that as per data, Uttar Pradesh topped in conviction in cases related to the crime against women in 2018 and 2019.

The woman was allegedly raped at a village in Hathras by four men on September 14.

After her condition deteriorated, she was referred to the Delhi's Safdarjung hospital where she breathed her last on Tuesday.

She was cremated in the early hours of Wednesday, with her family alleging the local police forced them to conduct the last rites in the dead of night.

Local police officers, however, said the cremation was carried out "as per the wishes of the family", even as the incident triggered protests in Hathras with several people coming out on roads.
Model Ellie Goldstein has insisted that she she would rather appear in unretouched pictures in order to showcase her natural beauty.

The 18-year-old model from Ilford, Essex, graces the cover of Glamour UK's September digital edition, which honours the new faces shaking up the world of fashion and proving it can be inclusive.

Ellie, who was the star of Gucci's Unconventional Beauty Campaign in July, was the first model with Down's syndrome to ever work for the fashion designer, and the first to ever pose for Glamour.

Talking about diversity and representation in the world of fashion, Ellie said she prefers when her photos aren't edited, saying: 'Id rather be as natural as possible without retouching or filters and show my real beauty.'

18-year-old model with Down's Syndrome Ellie Goldstein, from Ilford, Essex, graces the cover of Glamour's September digital edition. She is the first model with Down's to star on the cover of the publication

The model added: 'People have to get me and see my personality not the disability.

'My role model was my sister, Amy, because she took me shopping and we did so many things together. She chose many of my outfits and still does! I have always been outgoing and my passion was to be a model, act and be famous,' she said.

The teenager added: 'The change I want is for other brands to use models with disability hidden or not. Everyone deserves a chance and to achieve what they want.'

Ellie said she hoped to remain a role model for others aspiring to break into the world of fashion.

Ellie signed with Zebedee Management, an agency that only represents people with disabilities, three years ago (pictured at home)

'I have used fashion to reflect my story in the way that shows my personality. I love fashion, makeup and looking amazing.

'My look is normally bright colours and pinks and purples they show my personality and I like to be fashionable.

She added more needs to be done to champion diversity in fashion, and that there is still a long way to go before models with disabilities became mainstream.

'Diversity is very important. It seems to be getting better at using disabled models, but I think we are still a way off it being normal to see models like me,' she said.

'It seems to be getting better at using disabled models, but I think we are still a way off it being normal to see models like me,' she added.

Ellie made a splash this summer where she posed for Gucci with Mascara LObscur, from the brand's beauty range.

The snap has been liked more than 865,000 times since it was shared by the brand on its official Instagram account.

After the collaboration with the Italian luxury brand, the model was propelled to the cover of Italian Vogue.

The burgeoning model has already worked with Gucci, Nike, Vodafone, and has appeared in Superdrug'S Christmas 2018 campaign

Ellie said she hoped to be a role model for other people with disability wishing to make it into the world of fashion

Ellie signed with Zebedee Management, an agency that only represents people with disabilities, three years ago.

The model, who studies performing arts at a college in Redbridge, Essex, has already featured in a number of campaigns, including Superdrugs 2018 Christmas advert, Nike and Vodafone.

Speaking to You Magazine earlier this month, Ellie's mother Yvonne recounted how terrified she was after having given birth, when her newborn daughter was swiftly whisked away by staff.

'We were terrified  we had no idea what was happening  until a nurse said, We think she might have Downs syndrome, but were not sure, she said.

Once the confirmation came, Yvonne said she was told Ellie would never be able to walk, talk or live an independent life. But the model is now making her way into the mainstream.

Read the full feature in GLAMOUR UK September Digital Issue, available online now.
To help reduce COVID-19-related health disparities in vulnerable populations in Texas, a multi-institutional team of researchers led by The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) will identify disease hotspots and testing deserts in three racially diverse areas, and then develop and evaluate intervention strategies to increase COVID-19 testing.

The study, which is funded by a $5 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to UTHealth through the Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences (CCTS), will focus on three areas of the state with high infection rates - South Texas, Houston/Harris County, and Northeast Texas. Study partners include The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), and The University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler (UTHSCT).

Finding the reasons behind the disparities in testing is a first step to reducing those disparities in vulnerable populations. By quickly identifying those who have COVID-19, we can reduce spread, which is critical for saving the lives of those most affected by the virus." David McPherson, MD, principal investigator for CCTS-related research and chair of the Department of Internal Medicine at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth

The study is funded through the Rapid Acceleration of Diagnostics (RADx) initiative. As part of the initiative, the RADx Underserved Populations (RADx-UP) program will support research that aims to better understand COVID-19 testing patterns among underserved and vulnerable populations; strengthen the data on disparities in infection rates, disease progression, and outcomes; and develop strategies to reduce the disparities in COVID-19 testing.

UTHealth is one of 32 institutions across the country that received an NIH award through the RADx-UP program to support projects designed to rapidly implement COVID-19 testing strategies in populations disproportionately affected by the pandemic. These groups include African Americans, American Indians/Alaskan Natives, Latinos/Latinas, Native Hawaiians, older adults, pregnant women, and those who are homeless or incarcerated.

"It is critical that all Americans have access to rapid, accurate diagnostics for COVID-19, especially underserved and vulnerable populations who are bearing the brunt of this disease," said NIH Director Francis S. Collins, MD, PhD. "The RADx-UP program will help us better understand and alleviate the barriers to testing for those most vulnerable and reduce the burden of this disease."

The study will seek to understand why vulnerable populations, such as those with medical comorbidities and people experiencing homelessness, have significant disparities in coronavirus infection and mortality rates. Underserved populations such as Blacks, Hispanics, those who live in rural areas, and underinsured individuals, have higher rates of comorbid conditions including diabetes, obesity, asthma, and hypertension, which places them at risk for severe disease. In Texas, Hispanics make up 29.4% of the population, but 40.1% of COVID-19 cases, and 47.9% of confirmed fatalities, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services.

"The long-term goal is to reduce COVID-19-related disparities and improve health and quality of life of underserved populations," said Maria E. Fernandez, PhD, lead co-principal investigator of the study and the Lorne Bain Distinguished Professor in Public Health and Medicine at UTHealth School of Public Health. "One of the coolest components of the study is the community engagement piece where we will meet with people in the neighborhoods most affected and prioritize together the education and strategies needed for intervention."

The study has three overall aims:

Identify priority areas based on disease hotspots, access to testing, and prevalence of chronic conditions.

Identify and examine relationships among the various organizations in these priority areas that are providing services.

Use data from the first two aims to prioritize intervention activities, tailoring and implementing the materials, methods, and strategies to increase testing.

"We want to not only encourage people to get tested, but for them to follow up on results and, if needed, practice behaviors to protect themselves and others, and participate in contact tracing," Fernandez said.

To identify priority areas, researchers will use data from regional health departments and hospital records to estimate real-time testing availability and use by residents. They will also examine the incidence and test-positive rate. The higher the positivity rate, the more likely that testing is low in a particular area.

For the second aim, by looking at the relationships among organizations providing services, researchers hope to maximize system-level performance to increase testing.

Community engagement is integral to the study and in the third aim, is used to develop, implement, and evaluate adaptive intervention approaches in real time that correspond to rapidly changing conditions and needs of priority communities to increase testing. Researchers will study whether the engagement approaches and the resulting interventions increase COVID-19 testing and follow-up.

"The integration of these aims and how they influence each other is unique and exemplifies how public health can be practiced. We work to understand the issue and then intervene in a way that uses data to make best decisions," said Belinda Reininger, DrPh, professor and regional dean of UTHealth School of Public Health in Brownsville. "The areas where we are working are in high need because of health disparities. The proposed study will test strategies to improve access to testing across rural, border, and inner-city populations."

Fernandez said the team will use "Community Just In Time Interventions," an innovative concept that identifies priority areas dynamically using rapidly changing data, so that strategies can be quickly tailored to meet the needs of the community.

The work will bring together researchers and community partners for a truly collaborative approach. Co-lead investigators for the study are Fernandez; Reininger, who is in the Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences; and Marcia C. Otto, PhD, assistant professor in the Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences at UTHealth School of Public Health.

The lead investigator for UTRGV is John M. Thomas III, PhD, assistant professor in the Department of Biology, College of Sciences; and for UTHSCT is Paul McGaha, DO, MPH, chair and associate professor in the Department of Community Health for the School of Community and Rural Health. Numerous researchers from the partner institutions are involved to ensure a multidisciplinary approach is used to address this complex issue.

"This study will have great significance for the underserved populations in Northeast Texas," McGaha said. "Many do not have access to COVID-19 diagnostic testing and services. As the only health science center in the area, we want to assist our regional communities in responding to the coronavirus pandemic."
Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad, who was accompanying the family of the 19-year-old Dalit woman who died after being gang raped from Delhi to Hathras, said Wednesday that he was detained by Uttar Pradesh police midway and has now been put under house arrest in Saharanpur.

The whole world saw how our sister was cremated at night in the absence of the family and without their consent, in connivance of the government and the police. The morality of these people is dead. I was detained by their police the night before and now I have been put under house arrest in Saharanpur. But we will fight, Azad tweeted in Hindi.

He also shared a picture of the notice issued to him by the Saharanpur police, which stated: You are being informed that CrPC section 144 is imposed in the district. There are credible inputs that your tours and acts are gathering crowds, which may lead to law and order situation. Any untoward incident may happen. Hence, you are being informed that you will stay in your house only. The order, issued by the local Fatehpur police station in-charge Manoj Chaudhary, also warned Azad of legal action for violating the instruction.

When contacted, Chaudhary told PTI that it was not a house arrest but Azad has been asked to remain at his home in view of the law and order situation.

There is no time limit on the order as such, he added.

According to functionaries of the Azad Samaj Party, which was launched by the Bhim Army chief in March, Azad and Delhi unit head Himanshu Balmiki had gone missing after 10 pm on Tuesday while they were on their way to Hathras, accompanying the family of the gangrape victim, who died in a Delhi hospital on Tuesday. The Azad Samaj Party and affiliates of the pro-Dalit Bhim Army, among others, had joined the protests outside Safdarjung hospital in the national capital on Tuesday to demand justice for the gangrape victim and her family. There is no clue about the location of Azad and Balmiki after they reached the Jewar toll plaza to get on the lane to Tappal, Aligarh, Azad Samaj Partys core committee member Ravindra Bhati said earlier on Wednesday.

He alleged that Azad and Balmiki were detained during the intervening night of Tuesday and Wednesday, but the police were not making it public.

The body of the gangrape victim was cremated in Hathras in the early hours of Wednesday, with her family members alleging that the local police forced them to perform the last rites in the dead of the night.

Local police officers, however, told PTI that the victim was cremated according to the wishes of the family. Around 12.30 pm on Wednesday, dozens of Azad Samaj Party and Bhim Army activists reached the Tappal police station in Aligarh and staged a demonstration.

A delegation of our representatives will be meeting senior police and administration officials to inquire about Azad and Balmiki, Bhati told the protesters inside the Tappal police station compound. When contacted, a senior Aligarh police official said, I have no idea about this (detention) claim. The district police chief and some other senior officers could not be contacted as according to another police official, they have been infected with the coronavirus and are under medication for the last three-four days.
Webb testified in Jarigeses trial that he spent the bribe money on things such as gambling trips to nearby casinos. Federal guidelines call for Webb to be sentenced to between seven and nine years in prison, but prosecutors have said theyll recommend that Gettleman give him a lower sentence due to his cooperation.
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Linkedin Darmansjah Djumala (The Jakarta Post) Vienna  Thu, October 1, 2020 08:58 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c485d582 3 Opinion economic-diplomacy,trade-deal,economic-contraction,pandemic,COVID-19,diplomacy,diplomatic-missions,international-relations Free

It has been eight months since the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world hard. With the high prevalence and mortality rates, the disease has turned into more than a health crisis. The pandemic has even penetrated deep into relations between countries, affecting both political and economic aspects.

To meet domestic needs, many countries have acted selfishly, such as banning exports of medical equipment and supplies. There are concerns this trend will hurt the principles of free trade. Some experts predict that because of the pandemic, the world will be trapped in the backflow of globalization: the rise of protectionist attitude in international trade. This act of betrayal to free trade has disrupted world trade flows.

The pandemic has triggered an economic downturn in various countries. The repercussions of the economic doldrums moving from one country to another is exacerbated when the production of goods is increasingly connected in one global supply chain. China, the worlds second-largest economy and a major player in global supply chains, is also experiencing slow growth.

But the economic slowdown and disrupted world trade cannot be blamed solely on the pandemic. In fact, the prolonged trade tension between the United States and China was the first to send shockwaves to the global economy.

The impact of the US-China trade war, which began 2018, was immediately felt. According to the US Census Bureau, US imports from China were down by 16 percent in 2019 compared to the previous year. It was the biggest decline in the last 35 years. At the same time, total US imports from around the world fell only by 2 percent. There has been a shift in the source of supply to the US.

It is interesting that Vietnam and Taiwan benefited the most from the shift. Their exports to the US jumped by 36 percent and 19 percent, respectively, last year. Thailand and India also enjoyed a spike in exports to the US, albeit not significantly, at 5 percent and 6.3 percent each.

How about Indonesia? The countrys exports to the US during the trade war fell by 3 percent.

The pandemic has made the US and other countries aware that dependence on intermediate industrial goods from China is very risky for their economic resilience. Peter Navarro, economic adviser to the US president, suggested that the US move its production base linked to global supply chains in order to reduce dependence on other countries (Richard Fontain, Foreign Policy, April 17). It is in this context that the US has relocated its industry from China.

So have Japan and Germany. Japan has allocated US$ 2.2 billion in stimulus funds to help its companies relocate their production base from China to Southeast Asia.

German news channel DW also reported a quarter of German companies in China also planned to relocate the intermediary product industry to other countries.

It is believed that the relocation of the industrial base from China by these three countries will change the structure of the global supply chain, which has been so far dominated by China. The Nomura research institute revealed that before the pandemic, between April 2018 and August 2019, at least 56 foreign companies had relocated their factories from China. Of that number, 26 moved to Vietnam, 11 to Taiwan, eight to Thailand, three to India and two to Indonesia.

Clearly Indonesia, unlike its ASEAN neighbors, has yet to tap the opportunities up for grabs during the trade war pitting the worlds two-largest economies and the pandemic. It is at this point Indonesian economic diplomacy should rise to the challenge.

Foreign Minister Retno LP Marsudi has instructed the entire Indonesian mission overeseas to launch blusukan diplomacy, or a direct approach to business players and investors to explore the possibility to relocate their investment to Indonesia. The Indonesian Embassy in Berlin, for example, has approached the German Chamber of Commerce and

Industry regarding the relocation plans of more than 100 German companies from China to the Southeast Asian region.

In an effort to attract foreign investment, economic diplomacy abroad is one thing, and the investment climate is another thing. But the two must go hand in hand.

More vigorous economic diplomacy will mean nothing without improvement in the ease of doing business at home. Government policies indeed follow this direction, yet many more have to be done.

The 2020 World Bank data shows that Indonesia ranks sixth among the 10-member ASEAN in terms of ease of doing business. When it comes to the competitiveness index and corruption perception index, Indonesia ranks fourth.

The three indicators will surely impact investor confidence. Learning from Thailand and Vietnam, Indonesia needs to combine efforts to improve investment attractiveness with policies toward trade liberalization, infrastructure development, agrarian reform, labor law and tax convenience ( The Economic Times, Oct. 7, 2019).

Daunting challenges lie ahead for Indonesia to convert the distress resulting from the pandemic into opportunities and the looming recession into a steady recovery.

As the old saying goes, where there is a will there is a way. The resolve should be translated in economic diplomacy overseas that moves in sync with reforms to remove barriers to investment at home.

***

Indonesian diplomat assigned to Austria and the United Nations in Vienna and lecturer for the doctoral program of international relations, School of Social and Political Sciences, Padjadjaran University, Bandung.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the official stance of The Jakarta Post.
Western Australian Premier Mark McGowan speaks during a media conference at Dumas House in Perth, Australia on Sept. 4, 2020. (Matt Jelonek/Getty Images)

Western Australian Health Workers Virus Breach Stupid

WAs premier says a healthcare worker was stupid to approach COVID-infected ship crew without protective equipment and she has been ordered into quarantine.

Photos have emerged of the WA Health employee in close proximity to infected crew as they disembarked the Patricia Oldendorff bulk carrier off Port Hedland.

Premier Mark McGowan, who labelled her actions as stupid, has confirmed she was directed to enter quarantine on Oct. 1, almost a week after the incident.

He said any further action would be a matter for WA Health but he did not expect her to lose her job.

Obviously it was a very disappointing and, to a degree, stupid thing that took place and Im unhappy that the example being set wasnt of the standard that we would expect, he said.

Nine people remain on the ship as essential crew, seven of whom have tested positive.

There are also a dozen crew members in quarantine at the fenced-off Hedland Hotel and 10 of them have tested positive.

None are seriously unwell.

The premier visited Port Hedland on Oct. 1 and inspected the hotel quarantine site, also meeting with health workers and ports staff.

The fencing, the security, all of the arrangements in place I think are first-class and were obviously doing our best to protect people, he said.

Australian Defence Force personnel also arrived on Oct. 1 to assist police and security guards in overseeing the hotel quarantine situation.

The Patricia Oldendorff, carrying 20 Filipino nationals and the captain, is anchored eight nautical miles off WAs northwest coast.

It arrived from Manila on Sept. 16.

Authorities are confident the infected crew will fully recover and the ship, which needs at least 13 fit crew to set sail, will depart by Oct. 10 at the latest.

Crew members are rapidly getting better, McGowan said.

Theres at least two that are recovered, two or three more expected to recover. Once they are all fully recovered, the expectation is theyll go back on the ship and sail her away.

Another ship will arrive in Port Hedland to pick up the manganese the Patricia Oldendorff was carrying, the premier said.

WAs government will investigate what testing protocols were in place when the ship departed the Philippines and may seek costs from the vessel operator.

The Maritime Union of Australia said vessels should be required to remain at sea for at least 14 days before docking in WA ports.

WA recorded one new COVID-19 case on Oct. 1, with a man in his 30s testing positive in hotel quarantine after returning from India.

By Michael Ramsey
The Congolese authorities and the United Nations have not done enough to hold human rights violators to account and deliver justice to victims a decade after the landmark UN Congo Mapping Exercise ...

(Kinshasa)  The Congolese authorities and the United Nations have not done enough to hold human rights violators to account and deliver justice to victims a decade after the landmark UN Congo Mapping Exercise Report was published in October 2010, Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch said today.

The mapping report documented more than 600 incidents of serious violations of international human rights and humanitarian law committed in the Democratic Republic of Congo between March 1993 and June 2003.

The failure to identify and put in place adequate mechanisms to provide justice and reparations has left thousands of victims and their families helpless, said Deprose Muchena, Amnesty Internationals regional director for East and Southern Africa. As a consequence, widespread impunity continues to reign in Congo and the wider region, contributing to the recurrence of killings and other serious crimes.

President Felix Tshisekedi should make the fight against impunity a priority for his administration and take meaningful steps to hold those responsible for past and present human rights violations accountable, the organizations said.

The UN commissioned the Congo mapping project following the discovery of three mass graves in North Kivu province, eastern Congo, in 2005 and published its findings on October 1, 2010.

The Congo Mapping Exercise Report describes serious violations of international human rights and humanitarian law, concluding that a majority of the documented abuses qualified as war crimes and crimes against humanity.

With reference to particular events between 1996 and 1997, the report raised the question of whether certain crimes committed by Rwandan troops and their Congolese ally, the Alliance des forces democratiques pour la liberation du Congo-Zaire (Democratic Forces Alliance for the Liberation of Congo-Zaire) rebel group, against Rwandan Hutu refugees and Congolese Hutu citizens could be classified as crimes of genocide. It specified that a competent court should make this determination.

All violations and abuses documented in the report were committed by a range of actors, including foreign armies, rebel groups, and Congolese government forces, in waves of violence that engulfed the country between 1993 and 2003.

In addition to exposing serious violations and abuses, the researchers assessed the capacity of Congos justice system to adequately address the documented crimes, and proposed reforms and alternative judicial mechanisms that could deliver justice and reparation. But none of the mapping reports recommendations have been carried out, and most of the documented crimes remain unpunished.

Although efforts have been made to investigate and prosecute grave crimes over the last 10 years, mostly through military courts, they have confirmed serious shortcomings in the domestic justice system. While in 2004 the International Criminal Court (ICC) opened investigations over serious crimes committed in Congo after July 1, 2002, many of the events described in the mapping report occurred before that date.

The ICC has convicted three former rebel leaders for atrocities committed in Ituri in 2002-2003, but the Congo cases brought before the ICC have failed to address accountability by senior political and military officials.

The UN Mapping Report remains a powerful reminder of the crimes committed in Congo, the shocking absence of justice, and the consequences of impunity, said Thomas Fessy, senior Congo researcher at Human Rights Watch. Ten years on, the Congolese authorities and international partners should take serious steps to strengthen the domestic justice system and establish an internationalized mechanism that will ensure credible and independent justice for past and present crimes.
Obina Ezeoke, left, was found guilty of murdering innocent Annie Ekofo and her nephew Bervil Ekofo. (PA/Met)

A drug dealing assassin has been sentenced to life in prison for murdering a mother-of-nine and her nephew as part of a feud, after an unprecedented five trials in four years.

Obina Ezeoke, 28, crept noiselessly into a family home and killed Annie Ekofo, 53, and 21-year-old psychology student Bervil Ekofo amid a vendetta of violence in September 2016, a court heard.

Ezeoke, of Cambridge Heath, east London, was convicted of the murders by a majority verdict at the Old Bailey in September.

Sally-Anne Russell, from the Crown Prosecution Service, said: This was an execution of two family members within the space of about a minute. Obina Ezeokes actions have devastated a family.

He went to the flat to carry out a revenge attack because of an ongoing feud between himself and another in the household. When he couldnt find the person he was looking for, he murdered a young man and a mother-of-nine instead. Both victims were entirely innocent.

He was sentenced to life with a minimum term of 40 years on Thursday.

Annie Ekofo and her nephew Bervil Ekofo who were shot dead in 2016. (PA/Met)

Justice Cutts said: Whatever the motive, you murdered two entirely innocent people.

Your cold, callous and brutal murders of two people has not only cut short their lives but ruined the lives of many.

The judge noted that the killings had been compared to an execution  a description she believed was justified.

It took five trials for the prosecution to get a guilty verdict, with the first trial in 2017 collapsing because the judge had a bad back.

Jurors were unable to reach verdicts following a trial in 2018 and another in 2019, and a fourth attempt was abandoned when the coronavirus lockdown came in as a jury deliberated in March.

Ezeokes lawyer argued that to continue the case for a fifth time would be oppressive.

Is it really right and proper for this defendant to actually have the appalling prospect of a fifth attempt trying to get a conviction over the line? We submit, enough is enough, James Scobie QC said.

Story continues

However, prosecutor Mark Heywood argued the case was exceptional and had such gravity.

During the trial, Heywood described Ezeoke as an assassin who crept noiselessly into the home as six people inside slept.

Obina Ezeoke was sentenced on Thursday. (PA/Met Police)

He said Ezeoke had gone to the flat in East Finchley, north London, in his vendetta of violence and wanted to kill one of the teenage boys in the family.

The court heard Ezeoke, who has admitted dealing drugs, found Bervil Ekofo sleeping.

Heywood said: For the killer this was as good a target as he could expect  a young man of the house of just the right age.

He crept forward, gun in hand. He raised the muzzle and placed it almost against the back of the sleeping, dreadlocked head.

And then, with a deliberation and purpose that was as much cowardly as it was murderous, he pulled the trigger.

Annie Ekofo then went into the hall to investigate what happened, but instead of trying to scare her off with his revolver, Ezeoke shot her, the court heard.

His hate was such that he did not falter when confronted by a second person  he simply took her life as well, Heywood said, stressing that both victims were innocent and Bervil was visiting only for one night.

Justice Cutts said: He was not your intended target, but was in the wrong place in the wrong time.

You have an entrenched criminal lifestyle. Although not unintelligent, you have shunned a law-abiding life.

Your precise motive for doing so is unclear although I have no doubt that its roots lay in your previous criminal behaviour and desire for revenge.

Firearm residue was found in Ezeokes Vauxhall Meriva, which was used in the getaway, and on his top recovered from a friends home.

He claimed he leased the car from a man who took it back the day before the murders and said the residue must have been found because of a previous shooting.

Defending, Scobie said the first murder was planned but the second was not.

Ekeoze has already served four years and 11 days in prison, which will be taken into account.

Chantelle Mamie, Bervil Ekofos mother, said in a statement at the sentencing: I dont think any words can describe how traumatic it is for a mother to have their child killed.

We grow to accept that death is a part of life and we should embrace it.

However, no-one really prepares you for burying your child whose life was taken from them by another.

Osman Jeanefey, the husband of Annie Ekofo, said in anpther statement: I think about Annie every day, I cant believe she is gone. Sometimes I feel I will go mad and the image of her dying on the floor is always in my head.

Detective Chief Inspector Garry Moncrieff, who led the investigation, said: It appears that they were totally innocent victims, killed as a result of escalating violence between rival groups, and the latest in a series of violent clashes dating back several years.

This double murder has devastated Bervil and Annies families, and I hope that they find some comfort in knowing that the man who killed them has been brought to justice and now faces life imprisonment.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 16:15:36|Editor: huaxia

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NEW DELHI, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- China-India relations go far beyond the bilateral scope and have great regional and global significance, Chinese Ambassador to India Sun Weidong has said.

At a virtual meeting to celebrate the 71st national day of the People's Republic of China Tuesday, the Chinese ambassador said a sound China-India relationship is an important and positive factor in maintaining world stability, and as two great civilizations, China and India can also make great contributions to building a community with a shared future for humankind.

The growth of China and India is a global trend and an important opportunity for both countries, Sun said, adding that the two sides should firmly grasp the general direction of the relationship, regard each other as positive factors in the changing balance of power in the world, and maturely manage their differences.

"China and India have consensus in these aspects, on which we can move our bilateral relations in a positive and constructive direction," he said.

The ambassador said promoting the China-India friendship needs the participation of more people with insight.

"Only by deepening exchanges can we increase understanding; only by increasing understanding can we deepen mutual understanding and establish genuine trust and friendship," he said.

He noted that this year the people-to-people exchanges have been affected by the pandemic and other factors. However, the history of friendly exchanges between the two peoples, which has lasted more than two thousand years, won't be hampered by the pandemic or temporary difficulties in bilateral relations.

Sun said that as China-India relations confront challenges, it is all the more important for those who care about the relationship to play a positive role in strengthening public opinion on bilateral ties. Enditem
The NHRC has issued notices to the Uttar Pradesh government and the states police chief in connection with the gang rape of a 19-year-old Dalit women in Hathras district, officials said on Wednesday.

The woman, who was battling for her life after the assault, died at Safdarjung Hospital on Tuesday.

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognisance in connection with the gang rape and brutality of a 19-year-old women belonging to the Scheduled Caste in Hathras district, the rights panel said in a statement.

According to reports, she had gone missing on September 14 and was found in a badly injured condition on September 22, and was subjected to gang rape and brutality in Hathras over two weeks ago, it said.

The Commission has sent notices to the chief secretary of the state government and the Director General of Police of Uttar Pradesh, the officials said.

On September 14, the young woman had gone to the fields with her mother and went missing soon after. She was found later, beaten and tortured, her tongue cut as she bit it when the accused attempted to strangle her.

She was first admitted to Aligarh Muslim Universitys Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and Hospital and then shifted to Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi on Monday.

The commission said the responses from the state authorities are expected within four weeks.

The NHRC observed that the young woman belonging to the Scheduled Caste community was subjected to sexual harassment and brutality. It is apparent that the police was not able to take timely action to trace and save the victim due to which she could not be saved from being subjected to grave cruelty, it said.

The way the perpetrators have acted shows that they had no fear of law in their mind. The family has suffered an irrevocable loss. A young and a precious human life has been lost, the rights panel added.

Not only this, there are also allegations made by the family that the police forcibly took away the body of the deceased for cremation as have been reported in the media, the statement said.

Then incident has raised many questions about the law and order situation in the state. Many such incidents have occurred in the state of Uttar Pradesh where the members of the Scheduled Community have been subjected to discrimination and harassment by the people belonging to upper castes, it said.

There have been a number of instances of allegations of inaction against the police authorities and the administration. This is a serious issue of violation of human rights, the NHRC added.

The commission said it has further directed the state government to provide adequate protection to the family of the deceased keeping in view the gravity of the matter and the aspect of the witness protection as there is apparent rift between the two communities and there may be danger to the family of the deceased.

The DGP is expected to look personally into the matter to ensure a speedy trial so that the culprits could be punished by the competent court without any further delay, the statement said.

In the current scenario, it is necessary that family of the deceased as well as other members of the SC community residing in the village are provided proper protection by the police. Both the authorities are expected to submit their report, within the stipulated time, it added.
A microscope image of the intertidal flatworm Procerodes littoralis. Credit: Katharine Clayton, University of Plymouth

A tiny flatworm found commonly on the coasts of western Europe and North America is living proof that species may be able to evolve and adapt to rapid climate change.

Research by the University of Plymouth examined the extent to which the intertidal flatworm Procerodes littoralis was able to regenerate and repair itself when challenged with different sea water conditions.

Repeating a study conducted more than a century earlier it was shown that the response of individuals had changed markedly since then.

The original study was conducted by Dorothy Jordan Lloyd, who was based at the Marine Biological Association in Plymouth, and focussed on individuals found in Wembury Bay, Plymouth.

It was published in 1914, and the current studyled by BSc (Hons) Marine Biology graduate Katharine Claytonreplicated it in terms of the processes followed and the precise locations from which samples were collected.

When tested across a range of different concentrations of salt water in the laboratory, scientists showed the flatworm was able to regenerate following minor injuries at lower salinities than were recorded originally.

They also demonstrated that while in 1914 there was an optimum salinity level for individuals to regenerate this is no longer the case, suggesting individuals have extended their tolerance range in the intervening 104 years.

Katharine Clayton examines a sample of Procerodes littoralis found in Wembury Bay, Plymouth. Credit: University of Plymouth

Scientists also examined rainfall levels for the Wembury Bay area and found they had increased between 1914 and 2018, which is likely to result in exposure to lower salinities in the intertidal region, where the flatworm is found.

Put together, they say it shows how individual species may be able to adapt and survive the localised effects of climate change which, if correct, provides some of the first evidence of evolutionary rescue taking place in the wild.

Katharine Clayton began the study as part of her undergraduate degree and wrote it up for her final year dissertation. Now pursuing a Ph.D. at the University of Exeter, she said: "When we first began looking at this flatworm, we were interested in how it tolerated salinity levels in it natural habitat. However, we quickly found out about Dorothy's study in 1914 so it became a perfect test of how an individual population had adapted to changes within its immediate environment. The findings provide really interesting evidence of the impacts of climate change, but it has also been inspiring for me to revisit Dorothy's work and highlight a pioneering female scientist of her time."

Dorothy Jordan Lloyd (left) working with colleagues at the Marine Biological Association in 1911. Credit: Marine Biological Association

The research's co-author, Professor of Marine Zoology John Spicer, supervised Katharine's work and is a world-leading authority on how marine species can adapt to climate change. He added: "There has been an idea around for the last 15 to 20 years called evolutionary rescue where, faced with rapid climate change, animals evolve to survive. Many, including myself, have doubted the possibility of such rescue, especially over such a short space of time in terms of species evolution. But this study shows it may well be possible in the wild because, in comparing two identical experiments 100 years apart, the animal has changed how it works, its physiology.

"It is proof that evolutionary rescue may exist in the wild, not just in the laboratory, and is a major step forward in our understanding of how species can adapt as the environment around them changes. With the two studies being conducted 50 years before and after the start of the Anthropocene, it also provides a fascinating insight into the effect humans are having on species with whom we share our planet."

Explore further Rapid evolution under climate change

More information: KA Clayton et al, Evidence for physiological niche expansion of an intertidal flatworm: evolutionary rescue in the wild, Marine Ecology Progress Series (2020). Journal information: Marine Ecology Progress Series KA Clayton et al, Evidence for physiological niche expansion of an intertidal flatworm: evolutionary rescue in the wild,(2020). DOI: 10.3354/meps13473
An amateur pole dancer has pleaded guilty to common assault charges after she spat on a commuter while they boarded a train.

Laura Zammit, from western Sydney, told a court her victim was pushing on her back when they queued to get on a train headed to the Blue Mountains from Parramatta Station on June 19.

The 26-year-old threatened her victim by raising her right fist as they entered the carriage.

Police facts state the victim said 'whatever, keep on going' before the Penrith woman turned around and spat on his face at the peak of the coronavirus pandemic.

Laura Zammit (pictured) spat on a commuter she thought touched her backside on a train at Parramatta

The 26-year-old amateur pole dancer (pictured) pleaded guilty to common assault in Parramatta Local Court

The victim sat with a witness in the same and notified Blacktown train station staff after exiting the train, who contacted police.

Zammit faced Parramatta Local Court on Tuesday where her lawyer Andrew Sant said she spat on the victim because she thought he touched her backside.

Magistrate Tim Keady rubbished claims the victim had touched her inappropriately.

He believed the victim was simply boarding from a crowded train platform.

'If this man punched you in the face, what would your reaction be?' Magistrate Keady said, as reported by Parramatta Advertiser.

'Spitting at someone  that is the most extreme form of disgusting.'

Zammit was given a two-year conditional release order and no conviction.
LANSING -- Michigan plans to spend $500 million on improving the states water infrastructure.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced MI Clean Water on Oct. 1, saying that its a step in the right direction after, decades of underinvestment in Michigans infrastructure.

The MI Clean Water investment will help us rebuild Michigans water infrastructure and will prioritize and invest directly into protecting our public health, environment, and economy, she said in a statement.

The money will come from federal dollars for lead service line replacement in low-income communities along with bonding authority for water quality protection. There will also be a one-time General Fund appropriation for drinking water infrastructure and innovation and various grants for things like non-lead drinking water infrastructure, drinking water asset management, correcting combined sewer overflows, and removing direct and continuous discharges of raw sewage from surface or ground water.

Access to clean drinking water is a cornerstone of our work at EGLE, and this exciting package of water protections pulls together a wealth of resources to help ensure clean water for all Michiganders, said department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) Director Liesl Clark.

Whitmers office said taxes will not be raised as a result of the investment, and will support over 7,500 jobs.

Mike Shriberg with the National Wildlife Federation called the move a historic investment that will protect public health, or economy, and our Great Lakes for generations to come. While agricultural businesses also applauded the move.

Michigans crumbling infrastructure is a serious impediment to economic growth for agriculture and enhanced quality of life in our states rural communities, said Chuck Lippstreau, president of the Michigan Agri-Business Association in a statement.

In July, the state adopted new PFAS drinking water limits. The new standards limit how much of the toxic forever chemicals can be in Michigans public drinking water. The enforceable rules, which set low limits on fluorochemicals like PFOS and PFOA and require regular testing, are expected to impact about 2,700 utilities, schools, hospitals and large businesses in Michigan that provide water to the public.

Whitmer said the investment isnt the only thing the state needs to improve its water infrastructure. She called on the state Legislature to authorize EGLE to use the rest of the 2002 Great Lakes Water Quality bond during the current session.

Its time for the Legislature to take bold actions to invest in Michigans infrastructure and protect our water from toxic contamination, she said. Michiganders are tired of waiting for action, the time is now. We must all work together to improve the quality of the waters of our State.

The head of the U.S. Department of Environmental Quality recently toured Michigan to promote a few water quality initiatives the day after the first presidential debate. As the election gets closer, the EPA announced another $95 million investment into a state revolving loan fund that allows Michigan communities to borrow money for water infrastructure improvements, and $681,000 to the Michigan Department of Environment Great Lakes and Energy for voluntary lead testing of drinking water in child care programs.

The investment has support from Democrats as well as Republicans, like Sen. Rick Outman, R-Six Lakes. Outman said the Legislature has invested millions of dollars to improve the states drinking water, but the MI Clean Water investment will allow the state to use existing funds as well as federal funds.

Having access to quality water is a fundamental, basic need that every Michigan family should have the right to, he said. "There are several solid solutions in this proposal that I look forward to seeing further fleshed out. "

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An indigenously developed laser-guided anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) was successfully test fired on Thursday in Maharashtra's Ahmednagar, defeating a target located at longer range. It was the second such successful test firing of the missile, having a range of up to 5 km, in the last 10 days, officials said.

The weapon was test fired from an MBT Arjun Tank at KK Ranges in Armoured Corps Centre and School (ACC&S) in Ahmednagar, in continuation of successful trial done on September 22.

The ATGM employs a tandem heat warhead to defeat Explosive Reactive Armour (ERA) protected armoured vehicles in ranges from 1.5 to 5 km, the Defence Ministry said in a statement. It said the ATGM has been developed with a capability to launch from multiple platforms and is currently undergoing technical evaluation trials from 120 mm rifled gun of MBT Arjun.

The Arjun is a third generation main battle tank developed by the DRDO.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on the successful test firing of the ATGM. Secretary DD R&D and Chairman DRDO congratulated DRDO personnel for this achievement which paves the way for Atmanirbhar Bharat pledge of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Pune-based Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) developed the ATGM in association with High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), Pune and Instruments Research and Development Establishment (IRDE), Dehradun.

India on September 30, successfully test-fired a new version of the surface-to-surface supersonic cruise missile BrahMos having a range of around 400 km from an integrated test range at Balasore in Odisha. The missile, featuring a number of indigenously developed sub-systems, was flight tested from a land-based mobile launcher for a designated range at 10:30 am from the integrated test range in Balasore.

The range of the new land-attack version of the missile has been extended to 400 km from the original 290 km and its speed has been maintained at Mach 2.8 which is nearly three times that of sound. India has already deployed a sizeable number of the original BrahMos missiles and other key assets in several strategic locations along the de-facto border with China in Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh.

The test-firing of the missile comes at a time India and China are locked in a bitter border standoff in eastern Ladakh. "BrahMos surface-to-surface supersonic cruise missile featuring indigenous booster and airframe section along with many other 'Made in India' sub-systems was successfully flight tested for designated range at 1030 hours today," the defence ministry had said.

In a statement, it had also said the successful launch has paved the way for the serial production of the indigenous booster and other indigenous components of the powerful BrahMos weapons system.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had congratulated scientists and engineers after India successfully test-fired a new version of the surface-to-surface supersonic cruise missile BrahMos having a range of around 400 km.

"Brahmos Supersonic Cruise Missile has achieved yet another milestone with successful test launch showcasing enhanced operational capabilities and additional indigenous technologies. Congratulations to all the scientists and engineers. DRDO, BrahMosMissile," he had tweeted.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated all the team members of the Defence Research and Development Organisation and BrahMos for the mission. "Congratulations to Team DRDO and Brahmos for the successful flight testing of BRAHMOS Supersonic Cruise Missile with Indigenous Booster and Air Frame for designated range. This achievement will give a big boost to India's Atmanirbhar Bharat Pledge," he tweeted.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah complimented DRDO for the successful test-firing of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and said the state-of-the-art weapon is a testimony of India's defence potential. The BrahMos supersonic cruise missile with several indigenous features was successfully test-fired from a test range in Odisha and it has been termed as a major step towards achieving 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' pledge.

"India is extremely proud of DRDO for successfully testing the indigenously developed extended range BrahMos supersonic cruise missile. This state-of-the-art weapon is a testimony of India's defence potential and PM Narendra Modi ji's resolve towards an Aatmanirbhar Bharat," Shah tweeted.

Live TV

BrahMos Aerospace, an India-Russian joint venture, produces the supersonic cruise missile that can be launched from submarines, ships, aircraft, or from land platforms.

In May 2019, the Indian Air successfully test-fired the aerial version of the BrahMos missile from a Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft. The BrahMos missile provides the IAF a much-desired capability to strike from large stand-off ranges on any target at sea or on land with pinpoint accuracy by day or night and in all weather conditions.

The IAF is also integrating the Brahmos supersonic cruise missile on over 40 Sukhoi fighter jets which is aimed at bolstering overall combat capability of the force.
Protesters calling for an end to police violence against Black Portlanders held vigil Wednesday in the same spot police shot and killed a 27-year-old Black man exactly two years ago.

A few hundred demonstrators marched to Southwest Fourth Avenue and Harvey Milk Street, chanting Patrick Kimmons' name.

A series of speeches, including his mother Letha Winston, continued for more than two hours as the crowd filled the street. Some people painted Kimmons' name on Harvey Milk Street. Others placed candles and flowers beneath a banner demanding justice for Kimmons.

Make it known by our presence, make it known by our bodies, make it known by our voice, how much this matters, activist Kinsey Smyth told the crowd. Its the least we can do.

Portland police have shot and killed 40 people since May 2003. Those fatally shot were disproportionately Black, an analysis by The Oregonian/OregonLive found in August.

None of the more than five dozen officers who pulled a trigger in the shootings were ultimately disciplined or indicted by a grand jury, despite attempts to fire or suspend some of them.

Police have said Kimmons was armed. A grand jury convened after Kimmons' death found the two officers fired in self defense. Police have said Kimmons shot and wounded two men amid a fight, then ran toward officers who heard the gunshots. One officer said he saw Kimmons shove a gun into his waistband and then reach to pull it back out. The other officer said he saw Kimmons point the gun toward them. They fired 12 times as Kimmons ran in their direction and then turned toward parked cars. Police said they recovered a revolver near Kimmons.

His mother, Letha Winston, described to the crowd what it was like to find her son, Pat Pat, dead at the hospital. She questioned video evidence, which she believes shows Kimmons running away, clearly wounded by a bullet, before officers continued to shoot at him.

I dont know what video youve seen, but I know what video Patrick Kimmons' mother seen, said Winston, who spoke for more than an hour.

She said she had always supported police, but her sons shooting spurred her activism to defund the force.

What took me through the wringer is that the police killed my son, she said. "I always thought the police were here to protect and serve.

At some points as she spoke, Kimmons son stood beside her.

My son was a good man," Winston said. "He took care of his kids. He took care of his kids' mama. He took care of his own mama.

Kimmons' son, Patrick Jr., told the crowd he remembered his dad for dropping him off at school and buying him shoes.

Winston holds a protest every week to demand police reopen her sons case. She is a frequent speaker at nightly protests that started in response to the Minneapolis police killing of George Floyd in late May.

She criticized people for setting fires or causing other damage that she said distracts from the broader push for justice for people killed by police.

We need to ask these people to stop taking the meaning out of Black Lives Matter, Winston said.

Fahiym Acuay, who also goes by Mac Smiff, encouraged the crowd to continue pushing for change.

We have to stay out here in numbers, Acuay said.

After the speeches ended, a music show began on Fourth Avenue just before 11 p.m.

The demonstration for Kimmons in Portland comes as city, state and federal officials dispute the federal deputization of 56 Portland police officers. The designation means federal prosecutors file charges of assault on a federal officer if the deputized officers face attacks from demonstrators, including thrown fireworks, rocks, bottles or other objects. Federal offenses typically carry a stiffer sentence.

Yet even before local officers were deputized, federal prosecutors have and will continue to select certain protest cases to pursue in federal court.

By 11 p.m. Wednesday, police had not approached the crowd.

Beth Nakamura of The Oregonian/OregonLive contributed to this report, which will be updated throughout Wednesday.

-- Eder Campuzano

Subscribe to Oregonian/OregonLive newsletters and podcasts for the latest news and top stories.
Ahead of its 30th anniversary in November, Lone Star Flight Museum has a full schedule of fall events and reintroduces its TBM Avenger on Friday, Oct. 2.

The Avenger is the same model of plane as the one former President George H.W. Bush was shot down in over the Pacific during World War II in 1944. Bush had to eject from the aircraft, and two crew members were killed. He was picked up by a submarine and went on to fly around 54 combat missions.

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We are terrifically honored and privileged to be able to honor President Bush in this way, said retired Lt. Gen. Doug Owens, president and CEO of the museum.

The plane has been out for restoration for more than a year and now has a brand-new paint job. Not only is it the same model, but it also replicates Barbara III, which is what Bush called his airplane after his then fiancee Barbara Pierce. Bush named all his planes after her.

But the Avenger is just a part of what is available at the museum, which has two 30,000-square-foot hangars that are home to more than two dozen aircraft.

Weve got aircraft from World War II, Korea. Weve got commercial and general aviation aircraft, Owens said. Its a wonderful place. And the thing that sets us apart is all of our aircraft are operational. So this is a museum that brings flying to life.

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Located at Ellington Airport in southeast Houston, Lone Star Flight Museum is around 20 minutes from downtown Houston. It started in Galveston nearly 30 years ago but took on a lot of damage during Hurricane Ike. So the museum built a new facility at Ellington and was slated to open in August 2017, the same week that Hurricane Harvey pummeled the Houston area with rain and flooding. Instead, the 130,000-square-foot facility opened the next month.

It was built to tell the story of Texas aviation, to honor those aviators that are from Texas. And were home of the Texas Aviation Hall of Fame, Owens said.

He said the museum runs on the idea that aviation inspires achievement and endless possibilities. The flight museum uses aviation as a tool to teach young people in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math, and Owens recognized that the past can equip them for the future. There are classrooms on-site. Since the facility is at an airport, guests can also fly in some of the airplanes on weekends.

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An aviation learning center allows school groups to better understand the principles and processes that go into flying. Students create a flight plan, go through a pre-flight check and then implement their flight plan in a simulator.

Owens explained while Space Center Houston educates people about flying in space, Lone Star Flight Museum is the only museum in the Houston area that teaches them about flying airplanes. Guests can study what aircraft looked like over different periods and for different uses and see how the models evolved over the years. During the weekends, they can see the planes start up and move around.

Were all about flying in aviation and everything that inspires young people to grow and realize their potential, Owens said.

The museum is open during the pandemic. Some of its health and safety protocols include requiring face masks, taking temperatures of everyone that enters the facility and having a directional flow that helps guests to socially distance.

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Lone Star Flight Museum is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays. Admission is $14.95 for adults; $12.95 for seniors and youth 12 to 17 years; and $9.95 for children 4 to 11 years. Children 3 years and younger are admitted for free. Active and retired military, National Guard and Reserves receive discount pricing.

Scouts can complete their Aviation Merit Badges on Saturdays, Oct. 24 and Nov. 21.

Visit https://lonestarflight.org/ for more information, and follow the museum on Facebook and Instagram. Lone Star Flight Museum is a $35 million endeavor operated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. It largely depends on the generous donations from the public.

Fall events at Lone Star Flight Museum include:

Friday, Oct. 2: TBM Avenger returns

Check out the fully restored Avenger. The torpedo bomber is fully operational. The museums programs and events during the weekend (Friday through Sunday) will feature the aircrafts return. The airplane will remain at the museum.

Friday, Oct. 9, through Sunday, Oct. 11: Wings Over Houston Airshow

The airshow will give families a great drive-thru experience. The museum will be open during the airshow from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Guests can see and enjoy aircraft, exhibits and occasional flyovers. Parking will be available for museum guests only.

Saturday, Oct. 24: Patriots Day

To commemorate the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II, the community is encouraged to share photos, artifacts and memories of veteran family members to be displayed in the museums Heritage Hangar. The purpose of Patriots Day is to honor veterans and their families. The public can register on the website.

Saturday, Oct. 31: Halloween in the Hangar

Children 12 years and under that arrive in costume receive free admission all day. The safe but entertaining twist on trick or treating should be a hit. Since its always a good time to give blood, the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center will be on hand to take donations.

Thursday, Nov. 5, through Sunday, Nov. 8: The Lone Star Flight Museum Celebrates 30 Years

As Tuesday, Nov. 3, is the museums 30th anniversary, the public is encouraged to celebrate. The weekend will provide a look back at the museums history, complete with aircraft tours, Hangar Talks, demonstrations and more. Also during the four days, there will be a $30 discount off Warbird Rides in the Stearman, T-6 Texan or the Mescalero.

Saturday, Nov. 14: Third Annual Hangar Bash - Red, White & You

The annual fundraising event will feature food and good times: a big band, swing dancers, a silent auction, a virtual preview party and barbecue, beer and wine. The event is 21 years and up, and event tickets are required.

Saturdays, Dec. 5, 12 and 19: Stearman Santa Set for Holiday Cheer

Santa is cleared for landing. Santa will taxi to the museum in the yellow Stearman Biplane, which is also available for Warbird Rides.

tracy.maness@hcnonline.com
Showcase Cinemas is celebrating the return of concessions at movie theaters with free food on Monday after they had been banned due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Showcase Cinemas said it will offering customers a free small popcorn at Massachusetts locations on Monday, Oct. 5.

Earlier this week, MA Governor Charlie Baker announced that movie theaters could resume food and beverage service effective October 5  and Showcase Cinemas is excited to get popping again, the company said in a statement Friday.

Movie theaters closed in March due to the coronavirus pandemic. They began reopening at the end of August, but the smell of buttered popcorn was absent.

While allowed to reopen, movie theaters couldnt serve food or drinks under Massachusetts reopening guidelines.

For owners of small family-operated movie theaters, the future of their businesses hinged on the popcorn and candy and soda and all other concessions. Some theaters still havent reopened.

But on Monday, those rules are changing.

Enjoying freshly popped popcorn is a huge part of the moviegoing experience, and something we know our guests look forward to when they come to the movies, said Mark Malinowski, vice president of global marketing at Showcase Cinemas.

The company has more than a dozen cinemas located in Massachusetts, including in Worcester. Its currently showing movies such as, Space Jam and On the Basis of Sex.

Its also starting its Halloween Horror Month, which will feature cult classics and fan-favorite horror films throughout the month.

Those interested in returning to the movies but worried about being around too many people, Showcase Cinemas is also offering deals on private theater rentals.

Friends and families can book a private screening for up to twenty guests, priced at just $99 for Bring Back films such as Hocus Pocus or The Goonies,' the movie theater said. First run films like Tenet or The New Mutants are just $199.

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She was a stalwart of the scaled back New York Fashion Week earlier in September. attending several pandemic-era presentations.

And on Wednesday, Nicky Hilton put her fashionista credentials in display in a short camel duffle coat paired with skinny jeans.

The socialite and hotel heiress, 36, was spotted running some errands solo in the Big Apple, wearing a cloth mask.

Always stylish: Nicky Hilton put her fashionista credentials on display in a short camel duffle coat paired with skinny jeans as she ran errands solo in NYC on Wednesday

She stepped out in brown flats and carried a designer purse over one shoulder.

Her shoulder-length blonde hair was left loose and she covered up with a pair of black-framed sunglasses.

Nicky has been married to banker James Rothschild since 2015 and the couple shares daughters Teddy, two, and Lily-Grace, four.

Errands: The socialite and hotel heiress, 36, stepped out in brown flats and carried a designer purse. Her blonde hair was left loose and she covered up with black-framed sunglasses.

Nicky's older sister Paris Hilton has made headlines lately with the release of her highly hyped YouTube documentary This Is Paris.

In the movie, the former Simple Life star revealed her trauma at being sent to a boarding school for troubled youth in Utah at the age of 16 because her parents couldn't control her.

Nicky recently told E! News about the first time she watched the documentary, in the company of her sister.

'It was very, very emotional,' she recounted. 'She didn't even want to show my mother the movie. So we snuck downstairs and we were watching it together.

'Very emotional': Nicky recently told E! News about the first time she watched her older sister Paris' YouTube documentary in which Paris spoke about trauma she's experienced as a teen

'She said, 'I don't want mom to see it.' I was like, 'Well she's going to see it in a few weeks when it's on YouTube for the whole world to see.''

Nicky continued: 'We laughed. We cried. I'm just so proud of her, because going through so much trauma and reliving it with the whole world watching is very brave.'

Paris, 39, revealed a never-before-seen side of herself in the documentary, stripping away the shallow socialite character she's been pigeonholed into portraying.

She told Variety of her portrayal in the film: 'I feel that I've grown up so much, especially in the past year. Doing this film, I just had so many realizations and realized who I truly am and why I am the way I am.'
PHILIPSBURG:--- Prime Minister Jacobs and the Council of Ministers have made several attempts to meet with the CCSU and particularly the secretariat of the CCSU whose role is to serve as an impartial mediator between the Government and the unions. The Minister of General Affairs as was requested by the CCSU members in their letter of June 1st, 2020, sent a draft Covenant on July 27th, 2020 to solidify the cost-cutting measures proposed. Along with the draft Covenant the Minister sent a cover letter requesting to initiate a workgroup on the agreements and further proposals of the CCSU Members, to be discussed on August 7th, 2020.

On July 31st, 2020, the CCSUs secretariat responded to the Minister asking for clarity on the purpose and content of the recent draft covenant they received. The unions WICSU, PSU, and WITU along with associate members NAPB and ABVO responded to the draft covenant, stating they were not in agreement with the way in which the conditions would be applied. They also stated that they would not be able to sign the agreement as requested by the Council of Ministers.

It should be noted that the draft covenant was sent in order to receive feedback from the members in order for the Council of Ministers and the CCSU to come to a mutual agreement on the proposed cost-cutting measures. To date, the Minister has sent two requests to the CCSU members for meetings, which the CCSU did not accept.

Meanwhile, on August 31st, 2020 the CCSU filed a complaint with the Ombudsman against the Minister of General Affairs and the Minister of Finance claiming that both ministers have violated the law regarding the handling of the labour rights of the Civil Servants of St. Maarten. Although this complaint was filed on August 31st, the ministers did not receive this notice until Monday, September 7th, 2020, two weeks later.

In order to diffuse the ongoing tension with the unions the Minister of General of Affairs once again requested a meeting with the secretariat of the CCSU on the 11th of September which they again declined until after the hearing of the Ombudsman.

The Minister requested clarity from the Ombudsman on the complaint submitted by the CCSU on Friday, September 11th, 2020. Due to pre-set arrangements, the proposed date of the hearing is now scheduled for October 2nd, 2020. The Minister of General Affairs is awaiting the hearing of the Ombudsman after which, the much-anticipated negotiations with the members will continue.

It is unfortunate that the Council of Ministers was informed yesterday, September 29th, 2020 by the convocation of a public meeting of parliament to be held on September 30th, 2020, with the WICLU & CCSU unions prior to the hearing of the Ombudsman. The Government remains open to discussions with the CCSU and the WICLU respectively, with the main focus of both parties coming to an amicable agreement on the proposed cost-cutting measures.
EZULWINI  The Eswatini Trade Information Portal (ETIP) aims to close the information divide between large businesses and micro, small, medium enterprises.

That is the feeling of Prime Minister Ambrose Mandvulo Dlamini. Yesterday, the premier led guests to the Eswatini Revenue Authority (SRA) headquarters in Ezulwini to kickstart ETIP, which became live yesterday. This is simply a one-stop shop for trade information and it will benefit mainly exporters and importers.

The portal, according to the PM, contains more than 430 documents from at least 22 different sources. They include legal documents, procedures, measures, forms, trade agreements and other pertinent market intelligence.

One can only imagine the amount of stress traders had to go through in searching for this information before the establishment of this portal.

Our trade information was sitting and kept in different agencies and ministries. From a perspective of a trader, this was cumbersome, not smart, time consuming and very costly, said the PM.

The PM dubbed the portal as a window into Eswatini, highligiting that and it could not have come at a better time than this, in a COVID-19 environment, which limits movement of persons from one place to the other.

It is a key step towards a simpler, faster and lower cost trade facilitation environment where small or big, national or international businesses, would have equal access to regulatory information available in a single integrated website.

The Eswatini Information portal will provide the business community with complete, timely and up-to-date information relating to trade from a single website that is comprehensive in scope, user friendly, interactive and accessible, using a single search engine, said the PM.

Platform

The PM further noted that the platform would improve compliance.

Traders and investors with access to one window of information tend to have a better understanding of regulatory requirements associated with exportation, importation and transiting of their goods, for them to naturally comply.

With this portal, users will be able to identify formalities and procedures that may be inconsistent or redundant and thereby accordingly advise government to make the necessary amendments, he said.

The portal can be accessed on logging onto https://www.eswatinitradeportal.com/.

Witnessed

Ministers Manqoba Khumalo (Commerce, Industry and Trade) and his Public Service as well his Economic Planning and Development counterparts Christian Ntshangase and Dr Tambo Gina, also witnessed the festivities.

Support for the portal is provided by the World Bank Group with funding under the Trade Facilitation Support Programme (TFSP). The TFSP is funded by nine donor partners: Australia, Canada, the European Commission, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, the United States, and the United Kingdom. This initiativeimplemented by IFC and the World Bankassists countries seeking to align their trade practices with the WTO TFA.






New Japan PM might make Vietnam first overseas destination

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga at a press conference in Tokyo, Japan, September 16, 2020. Photo by Reuters.

Japans new prime minister, Yoshihide Suga, could visit Vietnam in October on what will be his first foreign trip since taking office last month.

If the trip materializes, he is expected to hold discussions with Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc, Japanese news agency Kyodo News reported on Wednesday, citing government sources.

Japan seeks to strengthen ties with ASEAN member countries amid growing tensions between the U.S. and China over trade, security and other issues, it said.

Vietnam is the ASEAN chair this year.

Japanese national broadcaster NHK said a decision would be made after assessing the Covid-19 situation in both countries.

The Japanese PM also intends to visit Indonesia in October to hold talks with President Joko Widodo.

Suga, 71, became prime minister after winning a parliamentary vote, taking over from Shinzo Abe, who resigned over health issues along with his cabinet.

He was considered Abes right hand, serving as chief cabinet secretary for eight years.

Vietnam recently approved the resumption of commercial flights to seven Asian destinations: mainland China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand.

A flight from Hanoi to Tokyo, Vietnam's first international commercial flight in months, took off September 19.

Vietnam has had no local transmission for nearly a month.
Military members and veterans can get up to four free months of Apple Music through the Apple Music military discount -- but...
The nation was horrified and captivated in 2018 when Chris Watts murdered his picture-perfect family in Frederick, COthen scrambled to cover his tracks. The case is about to achieve new notoriety thanks to a new Netflix documentary, "American Murder: The Family Next Door," which will start streaming on Wednesday. But the home at the center of the macabre tragedy is languishing in its own kind of legal purgatory.

The documentary details how Watts strangled his pregnant wife, Shanann Watts, in their five-bedroom home during a fight in the early hours of Aug. 13, 2018. Chris told her he was having an affair with a co-worker and asked for a divorce. Shanann reportedly shot back that he'd never see his daughters again. So he killed her.

That same night Chris murdered daughters Celeste, 3, and Bella, 4, after driving them to Anadarko Petroleum, where he worked as an operator, and smothering them in his car. He went on TV the following day, begging his wife and children to return home. But he would eventually fail a polygraph test and confessed his grisly crimes to the police.

Shanann's body was found in a shallow grave on the Anadarko site, and his daughters were discovered in oil tanks.

He is now serving multiple life sentences behind bars. But the fate of the Watts' roughly 4,200-square-foot, brown house, at 2825 Saratoga Trail in Frederick, is still uncertain. The unassuming, single-family house in the suburbs sits in legal limbo.

The lender that owns the mortgage on the home, built in 2013, foreclosed on the property and put it up for auction. But no one bought it within a year of when it went up for sale. So the county took it out of foreclosure.

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Watch: See Serial Killer John Wayne Gacy's Notorious Former Property

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That means that it's still owned by convicted murderer Chris Watts.

"It's not getting any bids because people know the sordid history of the house, and nobody wants it," says Denver-based bankruptcy attorney Clark Dray, who works with foreclosures.

"It just sits in limbo until [a creditor] comes along and tries a foreclosure again," says Dray, who is not affiliated with the home or its former owners.

The couple purchased the brand-new home for $399,954 in May 2013. It's now estimated to be worth $648,100, according to realtor.com.

"Usually at least the mortgage company will attempt to buy the home so they can resell it," says Dray. That could mean the lender is worried the home won't fetch a good price or simply won't attract a buyer. Real estate investors also shied away.

It's also likely to lead to significant price cuts.

"The longer the house sits vacant, the bigger the discounts. [And] it's been vacant over two years," says real estate appraiser Orell Anderson, of Strategic Property Analytics.

"When there are kids involved, the discounts are higher. People really dont like that, says Anderson, who specializes in real estate damages, which include properties where crimes occurred.

The Netflix documentary will likely exacerbate the stigma, making the house even more toxic. Anderson expects the house will need to be discounted by 15% to 25% to sell.

"It's a great neighborhood of nicely built homes. It's family-friendly. It's a great location. You can get to Denver quick from there, you can get to Boulder," says local real estate agent Tanja Nelson, of Sellstate Peak Properties, of the upper middle-class community. But the crime "was a huge deal. ... It was talked about for months."

If it sells at all, it will likely be to an out-of-state buyer, Nelson says.

"Everybody knows the story around here," says Nelson. "It's a nice enough house and the neighborhood's awesome. It would have sold by now if someone local felt comfortable enough to buy it."

For the Watts house to be auctioned off, one of the creditors owed money from the property would have to put it back up for foreclosure. Or the state could do it if the delinquent taxes pile up. Creditors are those who have liens on the property for unpaid bills. They include Shanann's parents, Sandra and Franklin Rzucek, who won a $6 million wrongful death lawsuit against Chris, according to the property's title report. There is also the mortgage lender, water company, and local homeowners association.

Potential buyers who aren't scared off by the heinous act that occurred in the home may be scared off by the attention it will likely continue to receive. They may want to alter the home's appearance, with a new color of paint or different landscaping. Or they may want to knock it down and put up a new home on the property.

"If you can make the house look different from [how it was portrayed in the media], you don't get all the looky-loos," says appraiser Anderson.

The post 'Nobody Wants It': Colorado Home at the Center of Netflix Murder Documentary Hangs in Limbo appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com.
COARSEGOLD, Calif., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The Chukchansi Economic Development Authority (CEDA), operator of the Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino, has entered into an agreement to settle litigation and restructure CEDA's debt. The settlement, which has been approved by over 94% of senior noteholders, will reduce CEDA's debt, inclusive of accrued and unpaid interest, by at least $125 million.

"This settlement will reduce CEDA's debt and strengthen our tribal economy," said CEDA Board Chairwoman Claudia Gonzales.

Pursuant to the settlement, the parties will dismiss the lawsuit filed against CEDA styled Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee and Collateral Agent v. Chukchansi Economic Development Authority, et al. (New York Supreme Court Index No. 654079/2019). The parties have agreed to initiate a Trust Instruction Proceeding in probate court to obtain an order approving the settlement.

CEDA's obligations in relation to CEDA's 9 % senior notes due 2020 will be satisfied through a pro rata exchange of all outstanding amounts of existing notes for new 8% senior secured notes due seven years from the date of the exchange, in an amount to be determined upon the closing date of the exchange, not to exceed an aggregate principal amount of $193,000,000 and $30,000,000 cash, or, if a new term loan facility is not entered into on the closing date, new senior secured notes due six years from the closing date bearing interest at LIBOR plus 4%.

Chukchansi Economic Development Authority

The Chukchansi Economic Development Authority (CEDA) is a wholly-owned enterprise of the Picayune Rancheria of Chukchansi Indians, a federally-recognized Indian tribe based in Oakhurst, California. CEDA owns and operates the Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino in Coarsegold, California. Since opening in 2003, Chukchansi Gold Resort and Casino has been voted No. 1 for 13 years as Best Casino by People's Choice Awards, sees over 130,000 monthly guests and employs over 1,200 individualsdisbursing roughly $50 million in payroll and benefits into the local economy every year.

Important Information about the Settlement

Documents relating to the exchange will only be distributed to holders of CEDA's 9 % senior notes due 2020. Persons who are not eligible to participate in the exchange will not be able to receive or review such documents. The complete terms and conditions of the exchange are set forth in the settlement support agreement. This press release is for informational purposes only and is neither an offer to sell nor a solicitation of an offer to purchase the new notes nor a solicitation of any consents relating to the settlement support agreement. The exchange is not being made to holders of existing notes in any jurisdiction in which the making or acceptance thereof would not be in compliance with the securities, blue sky or other laws of such jurisdiction.

The new notes will not be registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any other applicable securities laws and, unless so registered, the New Notes may not be offered, sold, pledged or otherwise transferred within the United States or to or for the account of any U.S. person, except pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements thereof.

Contact Person:

Alejandra Duran

(209)349-1748

SOURCE Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians
The first comprehensive study of DNA changes in healthy and diseased human bladder tissue has revealed that 'cancer-driving' mutations are common in healthy bladder tissue. The study, conducted by scientists at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, the University of Cambridge and their collaborators, provides an unprecedented view of the first steps towards bladder cancer.

Published today (1 October 2020) in Science, the research uncovered high variation in the number and types of changes between individuals, indicating that a wide range of factors influence how bladder cancer develops. The researchers also provided new insights into the link between smoking and bladder cancer, whereby bladder tissue is exposed to tobacco chemicals present in urine.

More than 10,000 people are diagnosed with bladder cancer every year in the UK, with around 5,000 deaths. Around 60 per cent of new cases occur in people aged 75 and over. Around half of bladder cancer cases are estimated to be preventable. Early diagnosis is also crucial, with 95 per cent of those diagnosed early surviving for one year or more, dropping to 36 per cent for late stage diagnosis*.

Cancers occur due to changes in DNA, known as somatic mutations, which continuously occur in all of our cells throughout life. Some somatic mutations, particularly those affecting known 'cancer genes', confer a competitive advantage that allows these mutated cells to expand more rapidly than normal cells and can lead to disease.

Technological developments have enabled the detection of somatic mutations linked to cancer in normal tissues, providing insights into the earliest stages of cancer and raising the prospect of early detection and treatment strategies**.

This new study used DNA sequencing to better understand the genetic changes in healthy and diseased bladder tissue. Clinicians from the University of Cambridge provided donated bladder tissue from five people with bladder cancer and 15 people with no history of cancer.

Researchers at the Wellcome Sanger Institute then took 2,097 biopsies from the tissue samples, using a technique called laser-capture microscopy to isolate segments of just a few hundred cells. DNA from these samples was genome sequenced and the sequences were analysed to characterise the landscape of somatic mutations.

The team found an unexpectedly high variability in the number and types of mutations and in the frequency of 'cancer-driving' mutations between individuals, suggesting that a wide range of factors affect the accumulation of mutations in the bladder. Some of these factors could be identified by their 'mutational signature' - tell-tale patterns of mutation in the genome caused by a certain chemical or process.

The study identified a new mutational signature associated with smoking, shedding light on why tobacco is the single greatest risk associated with bladder cancer. Though the bladder does not come into contact with smoke directly, the chemicals in tobacco products are filtered out of the body by the kidneys and come into contact with the bladder in the urine.

Andrew Lawson, first author of the study from the Wellcome Sanger Institute, said: "One of the questions we sought to answer with this study was why bladder cancers have some of the highest mutation rates and cancer-driving mutations of any cancer type, even though the cells in the bladder divide slowly, reducing the chance of a genetic error. The high patient-to-patient variation in which genes were mutated and in the types of mutations may be consistent with the wide variety of factors that can contribute to bladder cancer. Further studies on the causes behind this variation could help uncover hidden causes of bladder cancer."

The researchers were surprised to find that mutations in key cancer genes such as TP53, FGFR3 and TERT were largely absent from healthy bladder tissue, despite the high number of mutations overall. As mutations in these genes are common in bladder tumours, their presence is a strong indicator that disease has set in.

Thomas Mitchell, a senior author of the study from Cambridge University Hospitals and the Wellcome Sanger Institute, said: "Like many cancers, early diagnosis of bladder cancer gives the patient a much greater chance of survival. The presence of mutations in key cancer genes in bladder tumours that are usually absent in normal tissue opens up the possibility of looking for these changes in fragments of DNA that are present in urine. These 'liquid biopsies' could be a non-invasive way to screen for bladder cancer earlier, which could help reduce the number of people who die from this disease."

Dr Inigo Martincorena, lead author of the study from the Wellcome Sanger Institute, said: "This study reveals an unexpectedly rich landscape of mutation and selection in normal bladder, with large differences across individuals driven to some extent by our daily exposures. Thanks to technical advances, our understanding of how our cells mutate, compete and evolve as we age have been transformed over the last few years. In addition to shedding light on the origins of cancer and informing early detection efforts, these observations raise questions about the possible role of these widespread mutations in ageing and other 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:

*For more information on bladder cancer is available from Cancer Research UK (CRUK): https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/bladder-cancer/about

** Further information about these studies is available here: https://www.sanger.ac.uk/news_item/mutant-cells-colonise-our-tissues-over-our-lifetime/

https://www.sanger.ac.uk/news_item/uncovering-pathway-colon-cancer/

https://www.sanger.ac.uk/news_item/accumulation-dna-mutations-found-healthy-liver-leads-disease/

https://www.sanger.ac.uk/news_item/normal-human-uterus-is-colonised-by-clones-with-cancer-driving-mutations-that-arise-early-in-life-study-finds/

Publication:

Andrew R. J. Lawson, Federico Abascal and Tim H. H. Coorens et al. (2020). Extensive heterogeneity in somatic mutation and selection in the human bladder. Science. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1126/science.aba8347

Funding:

This study was funded by Cancer Research UK (CRUK) and Wellcome.

Selected websites:

About Cancer Research UK

* Cancer Research UK is the world's leading cancer charity dedicated to saving lives through research.

* Cancer Research UK's pioneering work into the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer has helped save millions of lives.

* Cancer Research UK receives no funding from the UK government for its life-saving research. Every step it makes towards beating cancer relies on vital donations from the public.

* Cancer Research UK has been at the heart of the progress that has already seen survival in the UK double in the last 40 years.

* Today, 2 in 4 people survive their cancer for at least 10 years. Cancer Research UK's ambition is to accelerate progress so that by 2034, 3 in 4 people will survive their cancer for at least 10 years.

* Cancer Research UK supports research into all aspects of cancer through the work of over 4,000 scientists, doctors and nurses.

* Together with its partners and supporters, Cancer Research UK's vision is to bring forward the day when all cancers are cured.

For further information about Cancer Research UK's work or to find out how to support the charity, please call 0300 123 1022 or visit http://www.cancerresearchuk.org. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

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/
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Debiopharm (www.debiopharm.com), a Swiss biopharmaceutical company, announced today the first patient dosed in their phase III clinical trial (TrilynX) with xevinapant, an orally available antagonist of IAPs (Inhibitor of apoptosis proteins) cancer therapy in combination with CRT for LA-SCCHN patients. This prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter, 2-arm clinical trial is being conducted to demonstrate the superior efficacy of xevinapant vs. placebo when added to CRT in high risk head and neck patients including those affected in the throat and vocal chords (oropharynx -HPV-negative, hypopharynx and larynx). The TrilynX study is being launched worldwide in 25 countries in over 200 sites with the aim of enrolling approximately 700 patients.

This trial launch follows the positive phase II results observed at 3-year follow-up analysis showing superior and statistically significant locoregional control, progression-free survival and overall survival vs. the placebo control group. Efficacy during phase III will be evaluated by multiple radiological and clinical variables including event-free survival, progression-free survival, and duration of response.

"The launch of the TrilynX trial follows several key 2020 milestones in the development of xevinapant including the FDA Breakthrough Designation in February and the recent presentation this fall of our clinically meaningful 3-year, phase II data at the ESMO (European Society of Medical Oncology) virtual congress. We expect that this large-scale trial will confirm the strong outcomes observed in phase II, bring us a step further towards positively impacting the lives of high-risk head & neck cancer patients." expressed Bertrand Ducrey, CEO of Debiopharm.

Worldwide, head and neck cancer accounts for more than 650,000 cases and 330,000 deaths annually1 making it the 6th most common cancer type worldwide. LA-SCCHN is a highly debilitating disease, gradually progressing impaired breathing, swallowing, and speech.2 Risk for the disease is linked with alcohol and tobacco abuse, largely due to exposure to carcinogens in the upper airways. Despite standard of care CRT, at least 50% of patients with LA-SCCHN develop locoregional or distant relapses, which are usually detected within the first 2 years of treatment,3,4 hence the need to identify new therapeutic solutions.

Debiopharm's commitment to patients

Debiopharm, Swiss Biotech Award Winner 2020, develops innovative therapies that target high unmet medical needs in oncology and bacterial infections. Bridging the gap between disruptive discovery products and real-world patient reach, we identify high-potential compounds and technologies for in-licensing, clinically demonstrate their safety and efficacy and then select large pharmaceutical commercialization partners to maximize patient access globally.

Visit us www.debiopharm.com/

Follow us @DebiopharmNews at http://twitter.com/DebiopharmNews

Debiopharm Contact

Dawn Haughton - Communication Manager

[email protected]

Tel: +41 (0)21 321 01 11

References

1. Bray F et al. CA Cancer J Clin, 2018 68 (6): 394-424.

2. Marur S, and Forastiere AA. Mayo Clinic Proceedings 2018, 83 (4): 489-501.

3. Gregoire V et al. , Annals of Oncology 2010, 21 (suppl_5): v184-v86.

4. AWMF. 2019. 'S3 guidelines - Laryngeal carcinoma, diagnosis and therapy.

SOURCE Debiopharm

Related Links

http://www.debiopharm.com/


With 1.3 billion people jostling for space, India has always been a hospitable environment for infectious diseases of every kind. And the coronavirus has proved to be no exception: The country now has more than six million cases, second only to the United States. An ambitious study of nearly 85,000 of those cases and nearly 600,000 of their contacts, published Wednesday in the journal Science, offers important insights not just for India, but for other low- and middle-income countries. Among the surprises: The median hospital stay before death from Covid-19, the illness caused by ...
ALTON  Kimberly Engelman of Eunice Smith Elementary in Alton has been named the first-ever Early Childhood Teacher of the Year by the Illinois State Board of Education.

Engelman said she was surprised and honored when she received the honor.

Im proud to say that my entire career has centered around teaching preschool-age children, and this award confirms the importance of the early years, she said. I feel Early Childhood educators work hard at helping young learners build a strong foundation for life-long learning.

According to Engelman, she has always had a passion for teaching, going back to early childhood when she would play school in her basement. She worked at several childcare centers through high school and attended the STLCC-Florissant Valley Child Development Laboratory Center.

I met several influential people in the field of early childhood and discovered my ambition for making a difference in childrens lives, she said.

She went on to get her undergraduate degree from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville where she said she truly learned the importance of early childhood education being the foundation of a childs ability to become a life-long learner.

She then returned to the Florissant Valley Child Development Laboratory Center as a full-time teacher. After three years, she moved on to become a Pre-K teacher for the Alton School District working with students who were considered at-risk.

At-risk was a new concept to me, she said. But I quickly learned how I could help families recognize they were their childs first teacher and, by working together, we could make a difference in their childs life.

Engelman went on to complete her graduate degree in early childhood care.

After working in early childhood care for 29 years, Engelman said she is proud to have played a part in shaping the future of our community.

I have had the privilege of introducing young children to their first school experience, she said. I get to help them recognize what it means to be a part of a community and develop basic social skills.

During the boards virtual meeting on Oct. 21, ISBE will recognize all its Teacher of the Year awardees and select one of the 10 Regional Teachers of the Year to receive the 2021 Illinois Teacher of the Year award.
BIG RAPIDS  After negotiations between Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the state legislature, a $62.75 billion state budget was signed yesterday that includes positive news for Ferris State University.

In the 2021 budget, which begins today, higher education funding was restored to the original levels in the 2020 budget, meaning the Universitys operational allocation from the state remains essentially flat without additional operational funding cuts.
The mastermind behind the alleged Bollywood-drugs nexus is an actor who has also been a supermodel in the past, Narcotics Control Bureau sources have told a news channel. So far, actors such as Deepika Padukone, Sara Ali Khan, Shraddha Kapoor and Rakul Preet Singh have been questioned by the NCB about the matter.

Their names came up during the agencys investigation of actor Rhea Chakrabortys connections to drug suppliers. Rhea was initially being investigated in connection to her boyfriend, actor Sushant Singh Rajputs death.

CNN-News18 reported that three more actors are under the scanner, and the alleged mastermind is an actor who used to be a model. These three could be summoned by the NCB for questioning in the coming days. The channel reported that the NCB is trying to uncover the identities of individuals who are supplying narcotics to various people in the film industry, such as actors, directors and producers. The alleged mastermind, the report added, is the big fish at the helm of affairs, and is supposedly connected to all the local peddlers, and who facilitates the consumption and procurement of drugs in the film industry. However, NCB is yet to comment or release a statement on this officially.

Also Watch | Bollywood drugs case: What Deepika, Shraddha & Sara told NCB during probe

Previously, Republic TVs sources said that the upcoming phase of the investigation is expected to last a month, and will involve a few of the biggest names in Bollywood.

Also read: Rhea Chakraborty didnt name any actor, says lawyer as Deepika Padukone, Sara Ali Khan, Shraddha Kapoor, Rakul Preet summoned

Rheas lawyer, Satish Maneshinde said in a TV interview that she had not implicated any actor during her interrogations. He told CNN-News18, Rhea Chakraborty has not named anybody in her statement. If NCB or anybody is making a statement that she has leaked, its totally false. There is no thread of evidence that suggests that Rhea Chakraborty has named anybody apart from what Sushant Singh Rajput had consumed all his life when she was with him.

The NCB had launched an investigation into the drugs case after it received official communication from the Enforcement Directorate (ED), which was investigating the money trail related to Sushants death case. Rhea has said in her bail hearing that Sushant used to consume drugs, and would ask those close to him to procure them for him.

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A sweeping new report urges significant policy and funding action to ensure the United States does not lose the preeminent position in discovery and innovation it has built since the end of World War II.

"The Perils of Complacency: America at a Tipping Point in Science and Engineering" was released today by Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

"The United States became a world powereconomically, militarily and culturallyin significant part by placing a high priority on innovation, fueled by advances in science and technology," the report's authors write. "This priority, in turn, required investing in R&D, especially fundamental research conducted in universities and national laboratories across the fields of science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine."

China is projected to become the world's largest economy when measured by gross domestic product by 2030, according to the report. "By 2026, the 250th anniversary of the United States, China's strategic plan calls for it to be well on its way to becoming the unchallenged world leader in science, technology and innovation. These developments are perilous for America, which today, 50 years after the Apollo 11 moon landing, is at a tipping point in R&D," the authors wrote.

The report assesses progress and setbacks in the five years since an earlier report, "Restoring the Foundation: The Vital Role of Research in Preserving the American Dream."

It will be discussed in a virtual presentation this afternoon, titled "Inadequate Investment: America, China and the Future of Innovation," which will feature remarks from Norman Augustine, retired chairman and CEO of Lockheed Martin; Neal Lane, senior fellow in science and technology policy at the Baker Institute and former director of the National Science Foundation; and Jeanette Wing, the Avanessians Director of the Data Science Institute at Columbia University and a professor of computer science.

"Recent developments are placing additional stress on the U.S. research system even as they underscore its indispensability in providing the fuel for American innovation and competitiveness as well as the know-how required to address the nation's many societal challenges," the authors write. "As this report was being prepared, a major coronavirus outbreak was impacting thousands of lives in China, America and other parts of the world. Meanwhile, security concerns have led some policymakers to propose draconian restrictions on the very same foreign researchers on whom we have come to rely to fill the persistent domestic talent gap in science and engineering."

One result of recent and proposed immigration restrictions is that other countries have become more competitive at attracting workers, the authors write. The report also says U.S. corporations are now more inclined to move R&D laboratories to other countries. "Compounding this problem is a continued weakness in U.S. support for basic and applied research; the fiscal year 2021 Presidential Budget Request would cut federal support for these categories by $7.9 billion, or just over 9%," the authors wrote.

2020 priorities

The authors expand on the recommendations outlined in the 2014 report, which focused on R&D priorities, and urge action to strengthen STEM education and the American workforce.

"The nation's pre-K12 public education system has been in crisis for decades, and the urgent need to improve student achievement was one of the seven priorities listed in the 'Innovation: An American Imperative' call to action that was supported by over 500 organizations across the country," the authors wrote. "The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine, in its 'Gathering Storm' report, laid out a strategy to address this crisis."

The report also recommends states return to providing sustained public university funding to the levels per student, in real dollars, that were in place prior to the 2008 recession.

"Restoring state funding for universities will enable those institutions to better serve the educational needs of the state's citizens, raise the skill level of the workforce, support full employment, form stronger partnerships with local companies and contribute to the country's overall science and technology enterprise," the authors write.

"The recent tax placed on the earnings of endowments of (private) universities represents an altogether counterproductive trend and should be repealed promptly," the authors write. "Repealing this punitive tax will help universities control tuition, provide more financial aid and maintain modern research and teaching facilities. Doing so will also, hopefully, discourage further such narrowly targeted, counterproductive approaches."

More information: Restoring the Foundation: The Vital Role of Research in Preserving the American Dream: Restoring the Foundation: The Vital Role of Research in Preserving the American Dream: www.amacad.org/publication/res  rving-american-dream
Security has been beefed up in Uttar Pradesh's Hathras as Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra left for Hathras on Thursday (October 1) to meet the family of the 19-year-old girl who was gang-raped and killed by four men belonging to upper caste.

The victim died on Tuesday at Delhi's Safadarjung Hospital, prompting nationwide outrage and protests. Even as the family members of the victim were grieving over the death of the girl, the Uttar Pradesh police cremated the victim in the dead of the night without the consent of her family members.

The post-mortem report of the victim showed that she was brutally captured by the four men, who are now under arrest. The report also revealed that the girl suffered fracture in her spine and was also strangulated.

Hathras District Magistrate has imposed prohibitory orders under section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) and ordered sealing of the district borders to maintain law and order in the area.

It is expected that the imposition of Section 144 and sealing of the borders of the district would make it tough for Rahul and Priyanka to meet the victim's family.

Meanwhile, a three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) team appointed by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday met the victim's family.

Live TV

Earlier, Priyanka had sought CM Yogi Adityanath's resignation over Hathras incident. "Instead of protecting the victim and her family, your government became complicit in depriving her of every single human right, even in death. You have no moral right to continue as Chief Minister," she had tweeted.

Congress president Sonia Gandhi on Wednesday (September 30) said that the girl was "killed by a ruthless government" that was trying to "hush up the matter".

Former UP chief minister Mayawati has said that CM Yogi Adityanath should resign if he is unable to maintain law and order in the state. "I urge the Central government to send him to his place - Gorakhnath Math. If he doesn't like the temple, he should be given the task of Ram Temple construction," said BSP chief Mayawati.
Tampa International Airport is the first airport in the United States to offer the tests and they will be available to passengers flying on any airline. Tests will be administered by BayCare nurses and medical professionals, and travelers have the option of taking a PCR test that returns results in 48 hours or a rapid antigen test that returns results in 15 minutes. Before the pandemic, Tampas airport was one of the busiest in the country, with more than 22 million travelers in 2019. Ticketed passengers who are flying or have flown within three days and can show proof of travel can take a nasal swab test for $125 or an antigen test for $57.
Our favorite ahjussi, veteran actor Sung Dong Il, talked about his close friendship with BTS V! In the recent episode of MBC's Radio Star, Sung Dong Il revealed that BTS V and actor Park Bo Gum are very close to him and he even invites them over to his house.

The actor also shared that he once gave Park Bo Gum some money as his birthday gift. Though his age is way older than the two stars, Sung Dong Il still formed a close bond with them. He shared that when they hang out they would mostly talk more about life. Given the fact that the veteran actor has a huge age gap with his young friends, he admits that he enjoys giving them advice and life lessons.

ALSO READ: Sung Dong Il and Oh Jung Se to Join Ju Ji Hoon and Jun Ji Hyun in Upcoming Drama "Jiri Mountain"

Sung Dong Il also talked about how BTS V adores his daughter Sung Bin. It seems like in this case, it's just the other way around, instead of the little girl admiring a K-pop star. In this situation, it's the BTS idol who adores the little girl so much that he even sends her gifts and food.

When BTS began travelling to Japan for their shows there, V would send her boxes of Japanese goodies and ramen.

During that time, Sung Bin had no idea who BTS was and how famous they are! However, Sung Dong Il revealed that the day came when his daughter discovered them, then she began to question her father if it was the same person who always sends her snack and gifts! She's such one lucky girl!

Meanwhile, this is not the very first time that the veteran actor flaunted his close friendship with V. In a reality show that was shot in the beautiful island of Hawaii, Sung Dong Il once ran into an American fan of V and was able to connect a video call to the BTS member for him.

You can watch the cute clip below!



Sung Dong Il was born April 27, 1964. He began his career in the acting industry through theater in 1987. Following this, in 1991 the actor was recruited at the SBS open talent auditions. The veteran actor gained popularity in 2013 he starred in "Dad! Where Are We Going?" alongside his son Joon. This is a reality/variety show that features five male celebrities and their children on camping missions.

Every avid Korean drama fan is familiar with Sung Dong Il as the universal father figure in some dramas or as the famous ahjussi that we always get to see. He is well recognized for his amazing performance in dramas including the Reply series and he has also appeared in Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart, The Legend of the Blue Sea and Hospital Playlist, amongst others. But if you're curious to where the friendship with BTS V started, it was on the set of the hit drama, Hwarang.
With international travel almost nonexistent because of the coronavirus pandemic, the global tourism industry is finding new ways to make money. In Asia, one way companies are trying to stay profitable is through so-called "flights to nowhere," as VOA's Bill Gallo explains from Seoul.
They then attacked him with sharp weapons even as his family members pleaded for mercy (Representational image)

Suspected Maoists on Thursday brutally killed a local BJP leader and a Janata Congress Chhattisgarh (JCC) worker in two separate incidents in south Bastar district of Bijapur in Chhattisgarh.

According to the Bastar police, around a dozen armed Maoists barged into the house of Dhaniram (42), a local BJP leader and ex-sarpanch, in the village of Korsa Bardela under Jangela police station and dragged him out.

They then attacked him with sharp weapons even as his family members pleaded for mercy.

They accused the slain leader of spying for police. Dhaniram died on the spot.

The ultras later fled the village. In another incident, a group of armed rebels entered into the house of local JCC leader Gopal Kodiyam (26) in the village of Gangala under Jangela police station early on Thursday morning.

They attacked him with axes and other sharp weapons, even as his family members watched the gruesome killing helplessly.

The tribal was accused of being a police informer by the ultras. He died on the spot. According to a senior police officer posted in Bastar, at least 10 people including an assistant inspector of police (ASI) were killed by Naxals in different parts of Bijapur district in the last one month.

ASI Nagayya Kosa (59) was abducted by Maoists while he was on his way to his home in Dantewada in Bastar division from Bijapur on August 31.

His body was found at a place nearly 15 km from district headquarters of Bijapur the next day. A Maoist leaflet, owning up the killing, was found near the body.
Dilip Kumar has expressed happiness on the restoration of his ancestral home in Peshawar by the Pakistani government. He has shared several childhood memories of growing up with his parents, siblings and cousins in the house and playing around at the Qissa Khwani Bazaar.

The veteran actor conveyed through Twitter, I am at once full of fond remembrances of my parents, grandparents and numerous uncles, aunts and cousins who filled the house with the sounds of their chatter and hearty laughter. My mother who was frail and delicate was always in the spacious kitchen of the house and as a little boy I would wait for her to finish her chores so that I could just sit by her side and gaze at her beautiful face.

2/n My mother who was frail and delicate was always in the spacious kitchen of the house and as a little boy I would wait for her to finish her chores so that I could just sit by her side and gaze at her beautiful face.  Dilip Kumar (@TheDilipKumar) October 1, 2020

He further said, I have memories of the sitting room where the family gathered for high tea in the evenings, the large room where the ladies prayed, the terrace, the bedrooms, everything. I can vividly recall the piggy rides on my grandfathers back and the scary stories my grandmother cooked up to forbid me from wandering out of the house alone.

3/n I have memories of the sitting room where the family gathered for high tea in the evenings, the large room where the ladies prayed, the terrace, the bedrooms, everything.  Dilip Kumar (@TheDilipKumar) October 1, 2020

4/n I can vividly recall the piggy rides on my grandfathers back and the scary stories my grandmother cooked up to forbid me from wandering out of the house alone.  Dilip Kumar (@TheDilipKumar) October 1, 2020

Sharing memories of nearby market, he said, I have lovely memories of Qissa Khwani Bazaar, where I received my first lessons in story telling, which later provided the impetus to choose meaty stories and scripts for my work. Every day as the trading closed in the market of Qissa Khwani Bazaar, a story teller would sit in the centre of the square narrating stories of valour and victory, deceit and retribution which I would listen to with wide- eyed attention, seated next to my father and uncles.

5/n I have lovely memories of Qissa Khwani Bazaar, where I received my first lessons in story telling, which later provided the impetus to choose meaty stories and scripts for my work.  Dilip Kumar (@TheDilipKumar) October 1, 2020

6/6 Every day as the trading closed in the market of Qissa Khwani Bazaar, a story teller would sit in the centre of the square narrating stories of valour and victory, deceit and retribution which I would listen to with wide- eyed attention, seated next to my father and uncles.  Dilip Kumar (@TheDilipKumar) October 1, 2020

The provincial government in Pakistans Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa has decided to purchase the ancestral houses of Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor to conserve the historic buildings which are in dilapidated condition and facing demolition threat.

Also read: Kareena Kapoors son Taimur takes cue from cousin Inaaya as they board a toy train during playtime, watch

Raj Kapoors ancestral home, known as Kapoor Haveli, is situated in the fabled Qissa Khwani Bazar. It was built between 1918 and 1922 by the legendary actors grandfather Dewan Basheswarnath Kapoor. Raj Kapoor and his uncle Trilok Kapoor were born in the building. It has been declared national heritage by the provincial government. Veteran actor Dilip Kumars over 100-year-old ancestral house is also located in the same locality.

(With PTI inputs)

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Pennsylvania officials deny Trump claims on poll watchers and fraud (REUTERS)

Donald Trump not only called out to white supremacists as he debated with Joe Biden this week, but also for his supporters to go into the polls and watch proceedings take place.

In making that plea on Tuesday night, the president once again alluded to widespread election fraud taking place across the United States, without any basis, as he called on his base to stage an intervention.

For Trump supporters to do so, would amount to election fraud of its own, with official poll workers typically requiring certification.

The presidents critics and Democratic opponents argue that those assertions are aimed at delegitimizing the 3 November election long before votes are counted.

Taking to the stage in Cleveland, Ohio, on Tuesday night, Mr Trump complained that apparent poll watchers had been thrown from polling stations in Philadelphia, in claims that state officials have since been rebuked.

"I am encouraging my supporters to go into the polls and watch very carefully, because that's what has to happen  I am urging them to do it," he said on Tuesday.

"There was a big problem, in Philadelphia they went in to watch, they're called poll watchers, very safe very nice thing  they were thrown out, they weren't allowed to watch," he claimed, adding, "You know why? Because bad things happen in Philadelphia, bad things."

But any poll watchers Mr Trump referenced on Tuesday do not exist, because there are no registered Republican or Trump campaign poll watchers in Pennsylvania, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.

At the same time, there are no polling stations open in the city where poll watchers could be thrown out.

Pennsylvanias secretary of state, Kathy Boockvar, said in response: There are no poll watchers yet. They are officially appointed a few days before Election Day. They literally dont exist now.

Whilst each state has different rules for poll watchers, most are paid workers registered by campaigns or national committees to observe potential polling issues.

Steve Simon, secretary of state for Minnesota, said to Axios on Wednesday as Mr Trump campaigned in the state that he was concerned about any large mobilisation of self described poll watchers.

"What is distressing about the presidents remarks is I fear his supporters will take it upon themselves to mobilise large numbers to go to the polls" as poll watchers, he said.
MILFORD  Bestselling author Alan Katz said one of his most rewarding experiences is when teachers say he has inspired children to have an interest in reading.

Ive had teachers come up to me with their arms around a kid, saying, This is Bobby. He refuses to read but he will read your books, and we thank you. Thats what I love, said Katz, 63.

Katz is the author of almost 50 books, and has been nominated six times for daytime Emmy Awards. Most of his writing is for children.

Three of his most recent books, which are coming out on Oct. 15, are biographies in a series called Lieographies.

While the books, recommended for 7- to- 10-year-olds, consist of made-up life stories of famous people, they also contain facts. Theyre designed to get children interested in reading, according to Katz.

Recent books

Katz said the purpose of the Lieographies series is not to fool, mislead or misinform them, but instead, to get them to read and be entertained by what theyre reading, he said. Hopefully, itll peak their interest and theyll say I had a good time reading. Now, let me go learn about these people.

The first three books in the Lieographies series are about Amelia Earhardt, Thomas Edison and Babe Ruth. Each of the books has pages at the end that include real facts about the subjects.

He said if he can get the kids to read, thats step one.

If you can get them to laugh, thats step two. If you can get them to take their curiosity and go learn more, thats great, he added. Im hoping the kids who are reluctant readers will read the books and say, Thats hilarious. Let me find out what really happened.

Also coming out this month is a short story collection called, Really Stupid Stories for Really Smart Kids. It contains 20 short stories for children ages 7 to 11, and is publishing Oct. 6 by Running Press in Pennsylvania.

One of the stories is about a smelling bee instead of a spelling bee. Another is about a day when it snowed snowmen, with a blizzard of snowmen falling from the sky.

Getting creative

When thinking up creative ideas for the subject matter, humor was the key factor, Katz said. The stories are designed to make kids laugh, he said.

They are really ridiculous , outrageous, he said.

Katz has also written a bestseller  Take Me Out of the Bathtub, which has about 3 million copies in print since it came out 20 years ago.

He said he enjoys inspiring children to try writing.

When he visits schools, I say How many writers are in this room? Sometimes people yell, One. I say No, youre all writers, he said. The kids really get into it,. By the end, they say Im going to write a book.

Katz has made author visits to schools in about 30 states. Since he has written that his favorite food is cantaloupe, the schools often have an array of cantaloupe for me, he quipped.

He has also written two poetry books. After reading his poetry, kids send him their poems, saying, Look I can be a poet, too, he said.

Of course, you can, I tell them, he added.

Writing at 16

A native of Queens, N.Y., Katz lived in Weston for 26 years, and last year, moved to Milford. He and his wife Rose, who is a journalist, have four grown children.

He began writing comedy when he was 16.

At Francis Lewis High School in Fresh Meadows, N.Y., beginning at the age of 16, he wrote jokes for Henny Youngman, a comedian who was known for his Borscht Belt comedy and humor.

I would mail him 20 one liners. He would circle three and send me a check for $21 . My parents would always say How do you know hes not using the others? and I would say You got to trust him, He kept buying the jokes from me all throughout my time in college.

Katz is now a full-time author who writes for TV and advertising from home. Prior positions he has held include a writer for the Rosie ODonnell Show.

I would read seven newspapers on the train ride between Westport and Manhattan every day, he said. The show was live at 10 a.m. that day, with the material Id written on the train.

Hes also written for the Tony Danza Show, as well as the Grammy and Tony awards. He has written for Nickelodeon/Nick at Nite Online, creating TV trivia games, and was a creator and writer of the Wheel of Fortune Live Show.

He has written for theme parks, advertising, and animation.

Once I did one thing, everything led to something else, he said.

He has also delved into nonfiction. His nonfiction books, which he wrote last year, are on science and technology.

Each book has profiles of 12 people who invented things that kids definitely use or have access to every day  like the remote control, like the microwave, like windshield wipers. After you read the story about this person in an uplifting way, there are three or four pages of humor related to the invention.

So, after you learn, you laugh, he added.

Next steps

Upcoming projects include a six-book series for young readers about a superhero substitute teacher called S.O.S. (Society of Substitutes). The first two books in the series will be released in January 2021.

Everybody likes funny stuff, said Katz, with regard to his interest in writing humor. If you can make people laugh or share a joke or write something that makes people have a good time, thats very appealing to me.

To read more about Katz, visit alankatzbooks.com.

sfox@milfordmirror.com
The ongoing war between the Madrid region and the central government went up a notch on Wednesday, after the former rebelled against the latters plan to impose new restrictions across Spain  but that would, for now, mainly affect Madrid  in a bid to halt the spread of the coronavirus.

The latest chapter in the battle between the two governments played out after an apparent deal had been reached between the Health Ministry and the Madrid deputy premier, Ignacio Aguado. In the face of the regions worsening coronavirus figures, the ministry had agreed that new measures would be applicable to municipalities across Spain, and not just in Madrid, should certain criteria be met. However, in a shock move, the Madrid region made clear on Wednesday that it would not accept these new restrictions being imposed by the central government, and would seek legal advice should that happen.

In line with the plan that had been agreed by the Health Ministry and the Madrid deputy premier earlier this week, Spains Inter-territorial Health Committee  which brings together the countrys regional healthcare chiefs  voted yesterday in favor of restricting movement in municipalities that have a cumulative incidence of coronavirus cases over the last two weeks that exceeds 500 per 100,000 inhabitants, a positivity rate (the percentage of PCR tests that come back positive) above 10%, and more than 35% of available intensive care beds occupied by Covid-19 patients.

Under these criteria, 10 municipalities in the Madrid region  including the Spanish capital  would have to implement perimetral confinement measures, among other limitations. For now, they would not affect other Spanish cities.

Health Minister Salvador Illa spoke to reporters on Wednesday evening to announce that the measures will be published as a ministerial order in the Official State Gazette (BOE) in the next few days after the joint agreement was reached. Government sources confirmed that this will happen on Thursday, Carlos E. Cue reports. The measures will then need to be published by the affected regions in their respective gazettes.

But in a surprise announcement on Wednesday evening, the Madrid regional health chief, Enrique Ruiz Escudero, stated that the deal lacked legal foundation given that not all of the regions had voted in favor of the plan. He warned that should they be published in the BOE, the regions legal services would study how to proceed.

The proposal, presented by the Spanish Health Ministry, was approved by a majority of the Inter-territorial Health Committee. Madrid, Galicia, Catalonia, Andalusia and the exclave city of Ceuta rejected it, while Murcia abstained  later claiming it did so by accident. The rest of Spains regions and territories voted in favor.

The Madrid regional government is run by the conservative Popular Party (PP) in coalition with Ciudadanos, and is propped up by far-right Vox. The PP premier of the region, Isabel Diaz Ayuso, has been highly critical of the central governments handling of the coronavirus crisis, and during the state of alarm earlier this year was calling for powers to be returned to her government on the basis it would handle the epidemic better. Since those powers were returned, however, the epidemiological situation in Madrid has worsened and the region yesterday registered a cumulative incidence of 735 cases over the past two weeks per 100,000 inhabitants. The national average in Spain for that data point is currently 284. Despite this, Ayuso has expressed her unwillingness to confine Madrid on economic grounds, and has accused the Socialist Party (PSOE) government of trying to impose strict measures on the region for political reasons.

Speaking last night, Illa said that he could not envisage that Madrid would not apply what he described as a jointly agreed decision made by the committee." Once the restrictions are introduced, they will need to be ratified by a judge, as is the case with all measures that affect fundamental rights when a state of alarm is not in place.

Under the criteria that were approved on Wednesday, 10 cities in the Madrid region, including the Spanish capital, will have to establish a perimetral lockdown and introduce other restrictions on social gatherings. These measures are currently in place in 45 basic healthcare areas in the region, although that move  which was implemented in two stages over the last two weeks  has drawn widespread criticism for having focused in many cases on working-class neighborhoods.

The Madrid municipalities that would be confined under the new plan are the capital, Alcala de Henares, Alcobendas, Alcorcon, Fuenlabrada, Leganes Parla, Getafe, Mostoles and Torrejon. Under the Health Ministrys guidelines, residents in the affected zones would only be able to enter and leave for essential business, such as to go to work, to school, to take care of a dependent or for reasons of force majeure.

Social gatherings will be limited to six people, both in private and public spaces, and capacity in commercial and hostelry establishments reduced to 50%. Shops will have to close by 10pm and bars and other hostelry venues by 11pm, although new patrons will not be allowed in after 10pm. Consumption at bar counters will also be prohibited. Capacity at religious sites will be cut to one-third, while maintaining social distances, and funeral attendees reduced to 15 people in outdoor spaces and 10 indoors.

Up until now, all decisions made by the Inter-territorial Health Committee have been approved unanimously. The regions that voted against the document claimed that they want to see more criteria applied and that they be technical. As if those that are included werent, said a representative of one of the regions that is most closely observing the progress of the pandemic in Madrid, with incredulity. The measures that were discussed today were very similar to those that we have been taking in recent weeks in nearly all the regions, a PSOE regional chief commented.

If the central government goes ahead with its plans, it would be the first time that proposed measures are applied without the consensus of all regions during a public health crisis. Jose Martinez Olmos, the former health secretary general, explained that the agreement must be adhered to by all regions, whether or not they voted in favor of it. Its mandatory to follow the measures, even if there was not unanimity, he explains.

The Health Ministry has said that it is open to refining the document, and even including more criteria to establish more restrictive measures, as some regions have requested. We will work tirelessly to reach wider consensus and if possible unanimity. Yesterday there was an agreement. Today there isnt. It is not up to me to explain why, said Illa, in reference to Madrids U-turn. The goal is to take control of the epidemic, he added.

Regions that are run by the PSOE are indignant as to what they consider to be a strategy agreed beforehand by the PP regional chiefs to oppose the measures proposed by the Inter-Territorial Committee, under orders from the party leadership. They are taking the country to a cliff edge, said one PSOE regional chief on Wednesday. This is a strategy of Pablo Casado, who is completely irresponsible, he added, in reference to the PPs national leader. They believe that the worse things are, the better for them. They are only looking at the short term, and are afraid that Vox will gain relevance with their motion of no confidence [that will be tabled against the coalition government] and they dont want to lose their role as the main opposition.

Based on reporting by Pablo Linde, Isabel Valdes, Jessica Mouzo, Jose Marcos and Elsa Garcia de Blas.

English version by Melissa Kitson and Simon Hunter.
BROOKVILLE, N.Y., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Results of a breaking Long Island University Steven S. Hornstein Center for Policy, Polling, and Analysis national poll were announced in the aftermath of the first presidential debate for Election 2020.

HIGH VIEWERSHIP

National poll results found that 80 percent of respondents tuned in to watch President Donald Trump debate former Vice President Joe Biden on Tuesday evening. High viewership of the event was supported by Neilsen ratings that estimated 73.1 million Americans watched the debate.

WHO DID A BETTER A JOB IN THE DEBATE?

BIDEN 41%; TRUMP 22%; NO DIFFERENCE 18%; NO OPINION 19%

Americans were asked who they thought did a better job in Tuesday evening's debate between Trump and Biden. Among respondents, 41 percent said that Biden did a better job in the debate, while 22 percent said that Trump had a stronger performance. More than a third of respondents (37 percent) said there was no difference (18 percent) or gave no opinion on the matter (19 percent).

WHO WOULD YOU VOTE FOR IF THE ELECTION WERE HELD TODAY?

BIDEN 48%; TRUMP 31%; UNDECIDED 9%; ANOTHER CANDIDATE 7%

After the presidential debates ended on Tuesday evening, Americans were asked who they would vote for if the election were held today. Respondents said they would vote for Biden (48 percent), Trump (31 percent), and another candidate (7 percent). An additional 9 percent of respondents said they were undecided and 5 percent said they wouldn't vote if the elections were held today.

ECONOMY IS THE ONE ISSUE THAT MATTERS MOST FOR VOTERS

While a variety of factors were mentioned, the one issue that mattered most on deciding how to vote among respondents was the economy (26 percent). Following close behind was coronavirus (13 percent), racial inequality (12 percent), law and order (11 percent), and health care (11 percent). Undecided voters and Americans between the age of 45 and 60 reported the economy as the most important issue at a higher rate than other demographics. Americans between the age of 18 and 29 reported racial inequality at nearly double the rate of other age demographics (21 percent).

MINDS MADE UP

Among respondents that were asked after the first presidential debate, the majority of Americans (71 percent) said their mind is made up on their election vote, while 17 percent indicate they might change their minds and 12 percent said they aren't sure.

UNDECIDED VOTERS

Among undecided voter respondents, the demographic majorities were women (59 percent), education less than a bachelor's degree (72 percent), and age 18-29 (36 percent). The one issue that mattered most to undecided voters was the economy (32 percent).

VOTER LIKELIHOOD

Among the respondents, 88 percent said they are likely to vote in the November elections (1,324 total likely voters).

IN-PERSON VOTING - METHOD OF CHOICE

Among the respondents, 46 percent of Americans said they plan to vote in person, 38 percent plan to mail in their ballot, and 16 percent said they still aren't sure. Americans over the age of 60 plan to mail in their ballot at a higher rate than other demographics. Respondents' answers remain relatively steady from previous response.

IMPACT OF FIRST PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE

A comparison of pre-debate and post-debate national polls conducted in the days before and after the event by the Long Island University Steven S. Hornstein Center for Policy, Polling, and Analysis indicated that the presidential debate had little effect on likely voters. Collectively, the difference in respondents' answers varied 3 percent or less in the days before and after the presidential debate for the majority of poll questions. The only exception included Trump's debate performance. Among pre-debate respondents, 32 percent said that Trump would do a better job. Among post-debate respondents, 22 percent said that Trump did a better job.

FINAL STRETCH

Two presidential and one vice presidential debates remain in the 2020 election cycle. The election will be held in 33 days on November 3, 2020.

METHODOLOGY

This Long Island University Steven S. Hornstein Center for Policy, Polling, and Analysis online poll was conducted through SurveyMonkey from September 30 - October 1, 2020, among a national sample of 1,502 adults ages 18 and up. Respondents for this survey were selected from the nearly three million people who take surveys on the SurveyMonkey platform each day. Data for this week have been weighted for age, race, sex, education, and geography using the Census Bureau's American Community Survey to reflect the demographic composition of the United States. The modeled error estimate for this survey is plus or minus 3.5 percentage points.

ABOUT THE LONG ISLAND UNIVERSITY STEVEN S. HORNSTEIN CENTER FOR POLICY, POLLING, AND ANALYSIS

The Long Island University Steven S. Hornstein Center for Policy, Polling, and Analysis conducts independent polling, empirical research, and analysis on a wide range of public issues. Our studies inform the public and policy makers about critical issues, attitudes, and trends shaping the world. Faculty and scholars from all schools of study at Long Island University participate in data collection and analysis. Visit liu.edu/Hornstein for more information and results from this post-debate national poll.

ABOUT LONG ISLAND UNIVERSITY

Long Island University, founded in 1926, continues to redefine higher education, providing high quality academic instruction by world-class faculty. Recognized by Forbes for its emphasis on experiential learning and by the Brookings Institution for its "value added" to student outcomes, LIU offers over 250 degree programs, with a network of 270,000 alumni that includes industry leaders and entrepreneurs across the globe. Visit liu.edu for more information.

SOURCE Long Island University

Related Links

www.liu.edu


COLUMBUS, Ohio, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- As COVID-19 drives more Americans to turn to virtual or digital business interactions, cyber criminals have found fertile hunting ground for new opportunities to exploit weaknesses. According to a new Nationwide Agent Authority survey, many American consumers and businesses are dangerously underprepared to defend against common and evolving cyberthreats.

"Our survey highlights concerning vulnerabilities for consumers and small business owners, many of whom may be more focused on keeping their family or business afloat in tough times, as opposed to guarding against cybersecurity threats," said Catherine Rudow, Vice President of Cyber Insurance for Nationwide. "It's encouraging that middle market business owners appear to be more attune to risks and are proactively preparing their defense. But regardless of the type of client, now is an important time for insurance agents to talk to their customers about cybersecurity solutions and best practices."

Nationwide's research uncovered four key themes:

Small business owners are underprepared and overconfident Middle market business owners have a better handle on cyberthreats Consumers underestimate their cyber risk exposure Agents are vital and can help clients understand cyber risks, including new and evolving threats

Small business owners don't recognize cyber vulnerabilities

Nationwide's research highlights an opportunity for agents to deliver counsel that small business owners may not know they need. Though nearly half of cyberattacks are aimed at small businesses, only 37% of small business owners reported believing they are at risk to fall victim to a cyberattack. Alarmingly, about one-third also said they are not confident they could recover if their business was attacked.

While nearly half of small business owners believe they are prepared to handle a cyberattack, only 39% of independent agents believe that their customers are prepared to prevent one. Only 17% of small business owners, or fewer than 1 in 5, say they have cyber liability insurance, and half (53%) say they do not offer cybersecurity training to their employees

Approximately 8 in 10 agents say many of their clients are unsure of how they are exposed to cybersecurity risks, they don't know what is covered in a cyber insurance policy, they lack knowledge, and they believe the chance they can fall victim is small.

Quick tip for agents

Make sure cybersecurity is part of your next conversation with small business clients. If they are part of the 83% without cyber insurance, bring some options to the table.

Middle market business owners have firmer cyber-footing

Nationwide's research shows that middle market businesses, which typically have more sophisticated operations, have a greater awareness and are more prepared for cyberthreats compared to small businesses. Seven in 10 (70%) middle market business owners are concerned about a cyberattack, and 79% feel they are well prepared to address an attack. They are also confident in their ability to recover from an attack (80%).

This confidence may be warranted as they are more likely than small business owners to have taken key security precautions, including purchasing cybersecurity insurance (71%). They also appreciate the support they are receiving from agents, with 7 in 10 (70%) indicating they trust their agent to provide insurance council on cyberthreats.

Quick tip for agents

Lean on your carrier partner for cybersecurity loss control resources to share with middle market clients and make a point to discuss changing exposures and potential coverage gaps in client conversations.

Consumers underestimate their cyber risk

Survey data showed that consumers have quite limited knowledge of cyberthreats as an alarming 40% of consumers reported they have never been victim of any sort of cyberattack, including phishing.

About 2 in 5 consumers lack adequate knowledge of common risks.

Only 62% reported being knowledgeable about ID theft;



56% know about malware; and



57% know about phishing.

This lack of knowledge lends to poor preparation for potential cyberattacks. Only 1 in 3 (32%) said they feel prepared to fend them off and an alarming 8% reported taking zero cybersecurity precautions. Only 13% of consumers indicate that they have some type of cyber insurance.

Consumers are also unaware of what it takes to recover from an attack and just 51% believe they could recover at all. Four in 10 don't know how much it would cost to recover from a cyberattack. Of those who did experience an attack, 30% reported that it impacted their personal finances.

Quick tip for agents

Help personal lines clients understand the repercussions associated with a cyberattack, including the commitment of time and money. Compare and contrast that with the cost of identity theft insurance.

Agents can help clients with new and evolving cybersecurity issues

Insurance agents have an opportunity to strengthen relationships by offering effective counsel to help their clients protect against cyber risks, including several new and evolving threats that remain off the radar of most consumers and business owners. While the agents surveyed are well aware of the knowledge and protection gap, only about half (52%) say they talk to their customers often or always about cybersecurity threats.

Nearly half of agents said they are familiar with emerging cyberthreats, including:

58% - IoT (Internet of Things) security breaches (associated with products like Google Home, Alexa, Next, Ring, Smart TVs, smart cars)

58% - Mobile point of sale malware (associated with tools like Square, Clover, Toast and Shopify)

53% - Denial of Service (DoS) attacks (when a business' system is intentionally shut down by a flood of traffic)

47% - Deep fakes (manipulated video)

Small business owners reported an even lower understanding of these emerging risks, and consumers' understanding was dramatically lower.

A challenge may be that some agents need more education. While 84% of insurance agency principals say they provide plenty of resources to their employees, only 61% of producers and 42% of customer service reps agree, highlighting a potential disconnect between management and other customer facing representatives.

Quick tip for agents

This is a good time to reexamine how your agency shares information with colleagues and clients about cyber risks. With nearly half of agents saying they don't often have cybersecurity conversations with clients, there is an opportunity to strengthen relationships and drive new sales.

*These insights and more were uncovered through Nationwide's ongoing Agent Authority research series, which includes samples of independent insurance agents, various business owners, and consumers. Previous Agent Authority research reports: Agent-customer relationship; Small business owner needs and challenges; Middle market business owner needs and challenges; Agents' top concerns through the pandemic.

Survey Methodology:

Nationwide commissioned Edelman Intelligence to conduct a 20-minute quantitative online survey among a sample of 2,600 U.S. independent insurance agents, small business owners, mid-market business owners, mid-market business owners with fleet vehicles, African American business owners, Hispanic business owners and general consumers between June 9  June 25 to understand what business owners and consumers value when buying or renewing insurance policies, explore the different challenges each audience faces around insurance, gauge perceptions of the economy and how each audience is managing uncertainty, and find out the actions business owners and consumer have taken as a result of COVID-19 and the conversations they're having with agents. For the purposes of this survey, middle market business owner was defined as anyone who self-reported as being a sole or part owner of a company with either 51-500 employees or $10M-$500M in revenue or 20+ fleet vehicles. As a member of CASRO in good standing, Edelman Intelligence conducts all research in accordance with Market Research Standards and Guidelines.

About Nationwide

Nationwide, a Fortune 100 company based in Columbus, Ohio, is one of the largest and strongest diversified insurance and financial services organizations in the U.S. and is rated A+ by both A.M. Best and Standard & Poor's. The company provides a full range of insurance and financial services, including auto, commercial, homeowners, farm and life insurance; public and private sector retirement plans, annuities and mutual funds; banking and mortgages; excess & surplus, specialty and surety; pet, motorcycle and boat insurance. For more information, visit www.nationwide.com.

Contact:

Mike Switzer

(614) 249-6349

[email protected]

SOURCE Nationwide

Related Links

http://www.nationwide.com


The first day of October concludes the period when US carriers that received billions in aid from Congress promised to refrain from laying off workers

Workers from the beleaguered US airline industry were making a last-ditch public appeal this week to coax more money from Capitol Hill power brokers to save their jobs.

The first day of October concludes the period when US carriers that received billions in aid from Congress promised to refrain from laying off workers.

American and United airlines were the first to announce cuts, saying they would begin furloughing 19,000 and 13,000 workers respectively as US officials have failed to reach a deal on fresh aid to the pandemic-hit air travel sector.

A package of loans totaling up to $25 billion to seven US carriers announced Tuesday night by the Treasury Department provides funds for airlines to ride out a prolonged downturn amid the coronavirus, but won't affect plans for furloughs, airline sources said.

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said Wednesday on CNBC he was hopeful airlines would postpone layoffs if congressional leaders can reach a framework for a deal, saying it was "critical" for Congress to act.

While the stalemate in Washington over stimulus has pinched unemployed workers and put public sector employees on notice, vulnerable airline workers have in some ways been the poster children for the impasse.

"Tomorrow, tens of thousands of essential aviation workers will wake up without a job or healthcare and tens of thousands more will be without a paycheck," Sara Nelson, president of the AFA-CWA flight attendant union, said in a statement.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Mnuchin held talks again Tuesday and agreed to keep negotiating. But a deal is still far from assured.

Voluntary exit

Since the coronavirus intensified in March, US airlines have been grounding planes and delaying jet deliveries to limit their cash-burn as air travel remains at about only one-third of its level a year ago.

Airline travel remains depressed, prompting US carriers to resort to voluntary leave programs and warn of layoffs as soon as this week

Carriers have struck agreements with unions to spread out work among employees. Tens of thousands of employees have also accepted unpaid leave or early retirement packages to avert the need for involuntary terminations.

Still, the decisions will not be enough to avert all job cuts. Airlines have said they do not expect a full recovery until a vaccine is widely available, which company executives have said may not be until late 2021.

Unions have said 100,000 people or more could be laid off without additional federal aid, but analysts expect a smaller number than that as airlines and unions seek ways to avoid layoffs.

In one such deal, United Airlines on Monday reached an agreement with its pilots union to avert furloughs of 2,850 employees.

Flight attendants and staff in other airport operations are among the 13,000 being laid off.

Southwest Airlines has said it does not plan involuntary job cuts.

The Delta Air Lines pilot union last week said it reached an agreement with the company to avoid furloughs until at least November 1 to give congressional talks more time.

Delta has said earlier voluntary staff departures and union agreements averted the need for involuntary job cuts for flight attendants and other frontline employees.

Peter McNally, an analyst at research firm Third Bridge, predicted there would be significant downsizing throughout the industry.

"The businesses cannot support the cost structure as it is," McNally said in an interview. "They worked around it through furloughs and early retirement and voluntary departures, but there are still going to be a lot of layoffs.

"The recovery has just not come as quickly as people had hoped," he said.

Association of Flight Attendants International President Sara Nelson joined a Washington press conference last week to call for more federal aid to avert mass layoffs in the industry

Public sector faces crunch

Airline workers are hardly the only losers from Washington's inability to enact fiscal stimulus.

Laid-off workers had been receiving $600 in weekly supplemental unemployment benefits under a provision of the CARES Act that expired at the end of July.

President Donald Trump authorized an additional $300 in weekly spending by tapping federal emergency funds, but those funds are also running out and expected to be gone in October, said Nancy Vanden Houten of Oxford Economics.

"Households got quite a boost from these benefits, so we're going to see a pretty big drop-off," she said in an interview.

Another vulnerable group is public sector workers, who face an uncertain future as governments struggle with lower tax revenues and, in many cases, balanced budget rules.

The most recent version of House Democrats' "Heroes Act" includes more than $400 billion in funding for state and local governments, a provision Republicans oppose.

The Economic Policy Institute has estimated that failure to provide support to local government could cost 5.3 million jobs through 2021.

Explore further US Treasury says loan deal reached with seven airlines amid crisis

 2020 AFP
The National Crime Record Bureaus Crime in India 2019 report was released on Tuesday. As the country grapples with the atrocity committed against a Dalit woman in Uttar Pradeshs Hathras, the NCRB data presented a clearer picture of how common crimes against women are in the country.

In a series of graphics depicting the frequency of various forms of crimes against women, News18 reveals how every 16 minutes a woman gets raped in India; every four hours a female gets trafficked; and how every four minutes a woman is subjected to cruelty at the hands of her in-laws.

Here are the grim details:

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The Chinese government is guilty of gross human rights violations in Tibet, particularly in the manner that Beijing restricts access to the region and its push to replace Tibetan language instruction in schools, human rights organizations and Tibetan activists said during a U.S. hearing Wednesday.

At the bipartisan Congressional Executive Commission on Chinas hearing on the rights situation in Tibet, witnesses said that the polices were an engineered attempt to eradicate Tibetan culture and enforce silence about Beijings various abuses.

More than 60 years have passed since the Dalai Lama escaped into exile, and today Tibetans in China are still struggling to exercise their basic rights: to speak and teach their language, protect their culture, control their land and water, travel within and outside their country, and practice their religion as they choose, said CECC chairman, Rep. Jim McGovern (D-Mass.).

Chinas Regional Ethnic Autonomy Law says that ethnic autonomous areas have the right to make decisions about education, including the language used in classroom instruction.

But Beijing has recently backed policies pushing Chinese as the medium of instruction in many of Chinas autonomous regions, not only in Tibet, but also in regions home to Mongolian and Koreans.

In Tibet, the governments policy is veiled under the name Mother Tongue Education for Tibetans, according to Sophie Richardson, China director at New York-based Human Rights Watch (HRW)

The Chinese governments use of the term is deeply misleading. It is not the case that students across Tibetan areas are being taught equally in both languages. State policies are in fact leading to the gradual replacement of Tibetan by Chinese as the medium of instruction except for in a single Tibetan language class, she said.

Richardson cited HRW findings that the policy in Tibet has expanded gradually over the years.

So-called bilingual education was originally limited to urban secondary schools, but now its in primary schools and kindergartens and across rural areas, she said.

Regional policies promoting what are referred to as mixed classes or concentrated schooling, mix together Tibetan and Chinese speaking children, which is fine, to justify the use of only Chinese in the classroom, which is not, she added.

Richardson raised concern that there is also a shortage of available Tibetan-language materials, saying that the use of Chinese-language materials not only eliminates fluency in Tibetan among the young, it also instills political views favorable to the Chinese government.

Zeekgyab Rinpoche, an abbot at the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, said Chinas linguistic policies were essentially genocidal.

It is clear that the Chinese policy over Tibet is a deliberate attempt to remove from the face of the Earth our racial and cultural identity. This is clearly seen in the way the Chinese government interferes and intervenes in the functioning of the monastic education system, by imposing restrictions on our monks and nuns, he said through an interpreter.

Even in our schools we see this maligned design to wipe out our unique identity in the form of restructuring the curriculum and banning the learning of Tibetan language. In short, there is a continuous and systematic destruction of our culture, religion, language and environment in Tibet, said Zeekgyab Rinpoche.

China has been able to control the human rights narrative by silencing its critics and restricting access to Tibet and other areas under its control, the panel was told.

Tenzin Dorjee of the Tibet Action Institute told the commission that Beijing is able to use its status in the world to oppress rights even outside of its borders.

As China becomes a global power, the threat it poses to freedom and human rights goes far beyond Tibet. Beijings surveillance and influence operations are undermining the liberty and security of those living in America. China uses a sophisticated set of tools, tactics and strategies to conduct what I would call Repression Without Borders, he said

One strategy is the weaponization of access. Access to markets, to family, to funding. By carefully controlling access, China buys the silence of American individuals and corporations, even Hollywood and the NBA, said Tenzin Dorjee.

Tenzin Dorjee said Chinese consulates and embassies silence ethnic Tibetans outside of China through discriminatory visa issuance practices.

In what he called the visa as bait strategy, Tenzin Dorjee said exile Tibetans must write personal statements on their entire life histories, including past participations in protests, as well as names and IDs of relatives in Tibet.

So, the Chinese government knows who you are, and who your relatives are. Now the fate of your relatives is somehow your responsibility. Theyre the hostage; youre the target, he said.

Tenzin Dorjee also said that control over exile Tibetans to divide the community and stifle the pro-Tibet movement was increasingly facilitated by WeChat, which he called the ultimate platform of censorship and state surveillance.

Launched by Tencent in 2011, WeChat now has more than 1.1 billion users, second only to WhatsApp and Facebook, but the company keeps users behind China's complex system of blocks, filters and human censorship known as the Great Firewall, even when they are physically in another country.

The app is also used by China's state security police to carry out surveillance and harassment of dissidents and activists in exile who speak out about human rights abuses in the country, or campaign for democratic reform.

Wednesdays CECC hearing followed the release this week of Surveillance and Censorship in Tibet, a report by the Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy (TCHRD) on mass high-tech monitoring of Tibetans by China.

China has in the past decade built a systematized social control mechanism that ignores human rights such as the freedom of speech, religion, and peaceful assembly, the report by the Dharamsala, India-based TCHRD says.

Online surveillance, CCTV cameras, bugged homes, and checkpoints provide simple instruments of observation and monitoring to expand the influence of the state, it said.

China has expanded to Tibetan urban and rural areas, as well as to Buddhist temples, the mass surveillance aided by artificial intelligence that is has rolled out in other parts of China  sparking self-censorship among local people, the report said.

Any talk of politics or critique of state policy is considered for a charge of separatism; posting, possessing, or even clicking on images of the Dalai Lama is grounds for a charge of religious extremism. To speak of such matters with outsiders is often a more extreme crime in the eyes of the state, and Tibetans are routinely discouraged from contacting the outside world in any way whatsoever, it said.
Report Reveals Alarming Amount of Systemic Police and Prosecutorial Misconduct

On Jan. 21, 2011, former Chicago Police Commander Jon Burge was sentenced to four and a half years in federal prison for perjury and obstruction of justice because he lied under oath about his use of torture to extract confessions from numerous criminal suspects, overwhelmingly Black men.

Burge was fired in 1993 and was prosecuted only for lying in a civil case. He served more than four years in prison and died in 2018

In 1987, when Ken Anderson was District Attorney of Williamson County, Texas, he successfully prosecuted Michael Morton for murdering his wife, Christine.

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To do so, according to a report from the National Registry of Exonerations, Anderson concealed that neighbors had seen a suspicious stranger hanging around the Mortons house.

After the murder, while Morton was in custody, someone else attempted to use a credit card belonging to his wife and cashed a $20 check that was in her missing purse.

Further, the Mortons three-year-old son, who witnessed the killing, told his grandmother that a monster killed his mother when Daddy was not there.

What followed was a parade of horribles, researchers said.

In 2011, DNA testing of a bandana found near the crime scene identified the actual killer.

The District Attorneys Office had successfully resisted testing that bandana for many years. Morton spent 24 years in prison for a crime that he did not commit  a crime that was itself an unspeakable tragedy for him and his family.

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The real killer went on to bludgeon another woman to death in 1988. Anderson himself was disgraced. He pled guilty to contempt of court, spent four days in jail, was disbarred, and was forced to resign from the position he later held as a judge.

While researchers of a new report released on Tuesday, Sept. 15, said its hard to summarize the enormity of the harm Burge and his underlings inflicted their victims, and what Anderson did, they did piece together a critical and comprehensive study on tainted cases that have only underscored why Americans  particularly Black people  have lost trust in the police and prosecutors.

In the report titled, Government Misconduct and Convicting the Innocent: The Role of Prosecutors, Police and other Law Enforcement, the National Registry of Exonerations examined more than 2,400 cases nationally which measured the role of government misconduct in wrongful convictions and how African Americans specifically suffer from those actions.

The study found that 54 percent of official misconduct involved corruption or negligence by police, prosecutors, lab workers, or other government employees.

The authors  which included researchers from the Newkirk Center for Science at the University of California, Irving, the University of Michigan Law School, and the Michigan State University College of Law  cautioned that the tally is very likely a vast undercount of the actual number of instances in which misconduct has led to the convictions of innocent people.

They outlined that many whove been wrongly convicted including those who pleaded guilty to low-level crimes  did not have the necessary resources or legal counsel.

Why did Ken Anderson conceal all that evidence of Michael Mortons innocence?

We dont know. We could ask, but we wouldnt trust the answer  if any was given  and Anderson himself may no longer know if he ever did, the authors wrote.

They concluded that the most important causes of official misconduct in criminal cases are systemic, pervasive practices that permit if not encourage bad behavior; lack of the resources needed to train, supervise and conduct high-quality investigations and prosecutions; and ineffective leadership by police commanders, crime lab directors and chief prosecutors, the authors stated.

If these systemic problems are corrected, misconduct is less likely to occur  and when it does happen, more likely to be counteracted before innocent people are condemned.

Overall, Black defendants exonerations have a slightly higher rate of misconduct than those of white defendants, 57 percent to 52 percent.

But the differences are more significant for murder cases (78 percent to 64 percent)  especially those with death sentences (87 percent to 68 percent)  and drug crime exonerations (47 percent to 22 percent).

The study concluded that official misconduct falls into five general categories:

Witness tampering occurred in about 17 percent of exonerations.

Misconduct in interrogations occurred in 57 percent of all exonerations with false confessions or about 7 percent of all cases.

Fabricating evidence happened in about 10 percent of cases, in three forms: Forensic fraud  in 3 percent of exonerations, police officers or forensic analysts lied about forensic evidence.

Fake crimes  in 4 percent of exonerations, police planted drugs or guns on innocent suspects, or lied and said the suspects had assaulted them.

Fictitious confessions  in about 2 percent of exonerations, officers fabricated confessions from defendants who did not confess.

At trial, misconduct occurred in about 23 percent of exonerations, about evenly divided between perjury by law enforcement officers, 13 percent, and trial misconduct by prosecutors, 14 percent (with some overlap).

Misconduct in interrogations occurred overwhelmingly in murder cases the led to exoneration

Concealing exculpatory evidence and misconduct at trial were most common in murder cases, followed by white-collar crimes. Witness tampering was slightly more common among exonerations for child sex abuse exonerations than for murder, and fabricating evidence was several times more common among exonerations for drug crimes than for any other crime.

Concealing exculpatory evidence contributed to 44 percent of exonerees convictions, more than any other type of official misconduct.

The rate of concealing exculpatory evidence varies by crime, from 61 percent for murder to 27 percent in child sex abuse cases.

It is so common and widespread that it happened in 82 percent of all exonerations with any official misconduct, the researchers noted.

Prosecutors concealed exculpatory evidence in 73 percent of cases in which [exonerations] occurred.

Police concealed exculpatory evidence in 33 percent of cases where it occurred (including cases with concealing by more than one type of official), and forensic analysts did so in 6 percent.

In some portion of those exonerations, prosecutors did know about the concealed evidence. Still, the researchers stated that they knew of about 13 percent that included concealed physical objects like clothing and weapons.

The authors conceded that this gap may in part reflect how effectively objects can be destroyed or hidden, but information may linger in electronic or physical files or the memories of people.

In 63 percent of cases with concealed exculpatory evidence, substantive evidence of the exonerees innocence was hidden  evidence that in itself helps prove the defendants innocence, such as an eyewitness who named another person as the criminal, the report noted.

In 80 percent of such cases, impeachment evidence that undermined testimony by prosecution witnesses was concealed  for example, evidence that a witness who identified the exoneree as a murderer told his brother he never saw the killing.

In half the exonerations with concealed exculpatory evidence, both substantive and impeachment evidence were hidden. Often, a single item of evidence serves both functions.

Substantive evidence may sound more important, but concealing impeachment evidence that eviscerates the credibility of a critical prosecution witness can be devastating to an innocent defendant, the authors stated.

Predictably, law enforcement officials usually conceal their own misconduct. Thats misconduct in itself, derivative concealment, they wrote.

For example, its misconduct for an officer to plant drugs on a suspect, and its a separate act of misconduct to conceal the officers knowledge that the suspect is innocent.

Other notable findings in the report include:

Evidence of other official misconduct was concealed in 26 percent of all exonerations.

Guilty pleas rather than trial verdicts obtain at least 95 percent of criminal convictions in the United States, but 80 percent of exonerations followed conviction at trial.

About 28 percent of those trials (23 percent of all exonerations) included official misconduct in court.

Perjury by all law enforcement officials occurred in 14 percent of the trials at which exonerees were convicted, or 13 percent of all exonerations (including those after guilty pleas).

In about a quarter of those cases, officials lied about forensic testing, or about things the officials themselves claimed to have witnessed the exonerees do or say.

Perjury by police officers occurred in 11 percent of trials of exonerees. In 9 percent of those trials (7 percent of all exonerations), officers lied about others information.

Most often, police lied about the investigations conduct, including what a witness said or how a lineup was conducted.

The most common subject of police perjury was the conduct of interrogations at which innocent defendants confessed.

We miss a great deal of police perjury, the authors wrote.

We rarely have access to transcripts or other detailed information about trial testimony, so we only learn about perjury at trial if it becomes a conspicuous issue.

In 1959, the Supreme Court held that a prosecutor has a constitutional obligation to correct perjury by a state witness even if she did not herself offer the false testimony.

However, researchers discovered that prosecutors permitted perjury to go uncorrected in 8 percent of exonerations. In most cases, the perjury was by civilian witnesses.

The most common lies were about the favorable treatment the witnesses receive in pending criminal cases of their own.

We know that prosecutors lied in court in 4 percent of exonerations. The real rate may be higher since we only count cases with clear evidence that prosecutors made statements they knew were false, the researchers noted further.

They said about half of lies by prosecutors were made in a closing argument with a common pattern of repeating and affirming perjury by a witness that the prosecutor knew about but failed to correct  for example, a lie by a witness who claimed to have no deal with the prosecutor.

Federal prosecutors committed misconduct in exonerations more than twice as often as police (52 percent to 20 percent), while state prosecutors committed misconduct less often than police (29 percent to 36 percent).
CHICAGO - Sept. 30, 2020 - PRLog -- The family and legal team of Paul Rusesabagina will hold a press conference on Thursday morning at 10:30 am E.D.T (Washington, DC time). Rusesabagina, the international human rights icon whose incredible story of saving 1,268 people during the Rwandan Genocide was told in the film Hotel Rwanda, was kidnapped from Dubai and is being detained illegally in Rwanda. Thursday will mark one month since Rusesabagina was captured, and his family and legal team will present updates on his case to urge people to act.



Rusesabagina is a beloved hero to many. He is a Belgian citizen, US resident, and has been honored across the world for his continued advocacy, including by being awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005. His kidnapping and detainment have sparked international outcry and concern from human rights observers, including from the American Bar Association and the Clooney Foundation For Justice. While being held in Rwanda, he has been subjected to a corrupt trial on false terror charges. The oppressive Rwandan regime has a history of setting up or even "disappearing" activists and opponents. The regime has denied him access to his international counsel, forced him to use government-appointed lawyers, supervised all interactions, and is holding him without bail.



His family continues to be incredibly concerned about the blatantly illegal circumstances of his detention and for his health. Paul is a cancer patient in remission and has cardiovascular health issues that require daily medication. He appears visibly ill and has not been allowed to access an examination from the Red Cross. In light of this, Rusesabagina's legal team and loved ones would like to use the one month anniversary of his detention to share updates about the status of his case and new efforts to secure his release.



To RSVP for the press conference and receive a zoom link, please click here (mailto:kittykurth@ me.com) and ask for the the link for the press conference.



The press conference will be held webinar style on Zoom and will also broadcast on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ FreePaulRusesabagina) and Twitch (https://www.twitch.tv/ kurthlampeworldwide) .



Website: www.hrrfoundation.com



Contact

Kitty Kurth

***@me.com Kitty Kurth
Scott Lilienfeld, Samuel Candler Dobbs Professor of Psychology at Emory, passed away Sept. 30. He was widely recognized as the foremost authority on pseudoscience in psychology, as well as a pre-eminent scholar of psychopathy.

Scott Lilienfeld, Samuel Candler Dobbs Professor of Psychology at Emory, passed away Sept. 30 from pancreatic cancer. Lilienfeld was widely recognized as the foremost authority on pseudoscience in psychology, as well as a preeminent scholar of psychopathy. More recently, he began exploring the interface of psychology, politics and the polarization of society. He was also renowned for his kindness and humility.

Scott was a giant of psychology and the impact of his research will obviously be long lasting, says Thomas Costello, an Emory graduate student in the Lilienfeld lab. But his legacy among his colleagues and his students is foremost his warmth, empathy and kindness, along with his intellectual and moral courage. Everyone who knew Scott was amazed by his humanity.

He treated students like colleagues from day one, says Shauna Bowes, who joined the Lilienfeld lab as a junior in the Neuroscience, Behavior and Biology Program and is now a graduate student in the lab. Scott never made you feel small or inadequate. Anything that you brought to the table he would look at and discuss. He built you up. He wasnt just a great intellect and a titan in his field. He was a wonderful person.

Weve lost a great friend and colleague, and our students have lost a master teacher, adds Patricia Brennan, professor and chair of Emorys Department of Psychology. Its a loss not just for Emory, but for the entire field and the world.

Lilienfeld, who was 59, was born and raised in New York City. He attended Cornell University and went on to earn a doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Minnesota. He joined the Emory faculty in 1994, where he built an international reputation as a clinical researcher specializing in psychopathy and other personality disorders.

Lilienfeld also became a fierce and courageous advocate for rigorous science in his field. He led the charge against unproven psychological wisdom, challenging the validity of some widespread diagnostic tools and therapies. In 2002 he founded a journal, The Scientific Review of Mental Health Practice, with the stated goal to present objective investigations of controversial and unorthodox claims in clinical psychiatry, psychology and social work.

In addition to publishing more than 350 journal articles, Lilienfelds reach extended to the general public. He often served as an expert commentator for major media on psychology topics, and regularly contributed articles to the New York Times, Psychology Today, Scientific American and other outlets.

He wrote and edited both influential textbooks and books aimed at broad audiences. Among the popular titles he co-authored are: 50 Great Myths of Popular Psychology: Shattering Widespread Misconceptions about Human Behavior, Brainwashed: The Seductive Appeal of Mindless Neuroscience and Whats Wrong with the Rorschach? Science Confronts the Controversial Inkblot Test.

He was extraordinarily dedicated to education at all levels, including the general public, Brennan says. He wanted to help people learn to think critically so that they could become better citizens.

In recent years, Lilienfeld began exploring the role of psychopathy and personality disorders in relationship to politics, leadership and the polarization of society. He published an opinion piece in the New York Times in 2015, The Narcissist in Chief, which referred to the political rise of Donald Trump and whether the public should consider personality when voting for presidential candidates.

It was this focus that drew Thomas Costello to join Emory in 2016 as a graduate student in Lilienfelds lab. Scotts research showed how personality traits underlying psychopathic behaviors, like fearlessness and narcissism, can make for successful leaders, Costello says. But when mixed with other psychopathic traits, like callousness and impulsivity, the combination can potentially have disastrous consequences.

Inspired by Lilienfeld, Costello plans for a career as an academic researcher focused on the psychology of politics. Now more than ever, its important to understand why people have the political opinions that they do, he says. Scotts recent work was basically trying to find ways to bring people together by better understanding why they are so polarized right now.

Funded by a Templeton Grant, the Lilienfeld lab began investigating whether intellectual humility may temper extremism and polarization and, if so, whether it is a skill that can be taught and learned. As Lilienfeld summed it up: Its good to disagree if we hold respect for the other side. When we disagree to the point of not liking each other or hating each other, there is an increased risk for discord, extremism and violence.

Scott had his thumb on the pulse of both science and culture, says graduate student Shauna Bowes, who joined the Lilienfield lab in 2017, tackling constructs like authoritarianism, decision-making and interpersonal dialogue. Like Costello, she hopes for a career in academic research.

Im interested in how we think and make decisions, she says. How do we operate under ideal circumstances and how does that change when things go wrong?

Bowes was recently interview by the New York Times about a study she led on personality traits associated with a belief in conspiracy theories. The analysis found links to conspiracy beliefs and a sense of entitlement, self-centered impulsivity, cold-heartedness, depressive moods and anxiousness.

Psychology Today asked Bowes to write a regular column on conspiracy theories and she gladly accepted. Im taking on Scotts mantel and passion for making science understandable for the lay public, she says. He inspired me to see the importance of that.

She notes that many more major papers led by students, guided by Lilienfeld, are nearing publication.

Publishing is bittersweet because Scott is not here to enjoy the fruits of his latest labors, Bowes says. But what a gift he has given to his students, setting us up to be able to make a difference.

Lilienfeld is survived by his wife, Candice Basterfield, and his sister, Laura Lilienfeld, who lives in West Palm Beach, Florida. Memorial plans are still under way.

Among his many honors, Lilienfeld received the James McKeen Cattell Award for Lifetime Contributions to Applied Psychological Science from the Association for Psychological Science (APS) and the David Shakow Award for Early Distinguished Contributions to Clinical Psychology, from the American Psychological Association.

Lilienfeld was editor-in-chief of Clinical Psychological Science and a member of 10 editorial boards. He also served as president of the Society for a Science of Clinical Psychology and the Society for the Scientific Study of Psychopathy.

The APS recently established The Scott O. Lilienfeld APS Travel Award, to honor Lilienfeld as a transformative leader in the field of clinical science. The award will recognize graduate student achievement in clinical psychological science research by funding one or more graduate students to attend the APS annual Convention each year.
San Marcos police have arrested a man in connection with the death of a San Antonio resident.

Police charged Kyle Nissen, 30, of San Marcos with intoxication manslaughter with a vehicle, intoxication assault with a vehicle causing serious bodily injury and unlawful carrying of a weapon.

On Sept. 6, police said Nissen caused a fatal five-car crash on W. Wonder World Drive that killed 60-year-old David Hollinbeck. Nissen was driving his Ford F250 in the left lane when he drifted to the right and side-swiped a Nissan Rouge. He then drifted back to the left and crossed the center double-yellow line and hit four vehicles in the oncoming lane, including Hollinbeck's truck.

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The crash sent all of the drivers and passengers in the five vehicles to the hospital, including Hollinbeck's wife.

Police said Nissen was driving around 95 miles per hour in a 55 mile per hour area. His blood alcohol level was three times the legal limit, according to police.

Police did not arrest Nissen at the scene because they were awaiting toxicology reports to determine the charges.

After a warrant was issued, Nissen turned himself in Monday and has since been released from jail on a $22,500 bond, police said.

Taylor Pettaway is a breaking news and general assignment reporter for MySA.com | taylor.pettaway@express-news.net | @TaylorPettaway
The Military forces of India want to arm their drones with laser-guided missiles to make them deadlier. India has been acquiring equipment for its front-line armies that are superior to most Chinese equipment.

Smart bombs have proven themselves to be effective, especially when paired with Israeli-made drones UAVs. According to the India's Economic Times, the country's border troubles with China deserve a response that is effective and imposing.

This prompted them to arm the Heron UAV with guided munitions like bombs and anti-armor missiles to hit the People's Liberation Army (PLA).

India's military forces expressed interest in purchasing a specialized version of the American MQ-9B called the SeaGuardian. Essentially, it is a souped-up version of the MQ-9 Reaper strike and surveillance drone.

All military services of India have assessed the need for an armed drone instead of the drones for recon and surveillance. The U.S. government approved the sale in 2017 for India, according to the Hindustan Times.

Their agreement with the U.S. administration included 22 of armed drones, but the Indian Army's needs have changed. Threats from Beijing need a firmer response and resolve to make them back off, reported Forbes.

A fleet of Israeli and U.S. drones unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) might do the work. A total of 90 Herons UAVs have been equally equipped for the army, navy, as well as air force by Israel Aerospace Industries and rated for flying at median-altitudes.

Equipped with imaging equipment on the small airframe, the pilotless plane (UAVs) is similar to Americans that have gained notoriety in the battlefield.

Also read: Chinese Fighter Jets in Indian Border Doubled in Number

These are similar to the MQ-1 Predator and MQ-9 Reaper which can mount missiles as a recon and offensive system. Herons of the army have been deployed over the Chinese territory in the Ladakh area. They are used primarily to track the PLA's movement in the location.

China has been fortifying the disputed border called the Line of Actual Control (LAC), where they are beefing up their forces. The PLA has even stationed jets near the area, as well as anti-air defense positions that will be a threat to manned aircraft attempting to provide support for Indian troops.

Creation of Project Cheetah aims to give the 90 Heron UAVs more punch as unmanned air support will be a boost for Indian forces. It will add more precise targeting munitions and improved sensors for recon and surveillance. These can strike Chinese armor and weapons from a stand-off distance.

One possible role of the armed Herons will be weaponized recon missions, watching enemy movement, and destroying targets of opportunity. Missiles and smart bombs will be used to punish Chinese positions if approval is given for selected targets.

Acquisition of the weapon-laden Herons is the most effective means to destroy rebels in counterinsurgency operations. Border disputes are not only with China stealing Indian territory, but the country also face troubles with Kashmiri insurgents.

Another variant of Heron TP was reported in 2019 but it did not pull through. Instead, Project Cheetah is more expedient at arming the Herons in operation now. But the Chinese have been busy as well with spying using drones. They use the Chinese Wing Loong, which might carry weapons to attack Indian positions too.

Fighting in the roof of the world will not be easy, as it will be hard to fight in such an environment. Even with the Tibetan Frontier Force, having drones with laser-guided missiles will be the edge India needs.

Related article: China Unhappy About Border Rebuffs and Calls India on Supporting Exiled Tibetan Leaders

@ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Wirecard AG headquarters in Aschheim, Germany, 8 August 2020 (PHOTO: Getty Commercial)

By Chanyaporn Chanjaroen

(Bloomberg) -- Singapore authorities charged the director of a local accounting firm with fraud for falsely claiming his company held 475.5 million euros ($558 million) on behalf of disgraced German payments business Wirecard AG in 2016.

R. Shanmugaratnam, a director of Citadelle Corporate Services Pte, was charged with five counts of wilfully and with intent to defraud falsifying letters to Wirecard, Wirecard UK & Ireland Ltd., and Cardsystems Middle East FZ LLC, according to charge sheets filed on Thursday and seen by Bloomberg News.

Shanmugaratnam falsely stated he held about 378 million euros in escrow across multiple accounts as of December 2016 and 97.5 million euros as of November 2016 in a fifth account, the charges stated.

The accusations follow six earlier charges -- related to accounts purported to have held about 393 million euros -- against the 54-year-old Singaporean, the first person to be indicted in the city-state over the spectacular collapse of Wirecard, which has reverberated across the world. Taken together the 11 charges cover about 868 million euros in cash, roughly half of the amount missing from the firm, though they cover different time periods.

Aggressive Expansion

Wirecard filed for bankruptcy in June after acknowledging that 1.9 billion euros it had listed as assets didnt exist, triggering a global investigation. Singapore is home to Wirecards Asia-Pacific headquarters and the company had been expanding aggressively in the region, which accounted for almost 45% of the groups reported revenue in 2018, second only to Europe.

Shanmugaratnam declined to comment on the charges via his lawyer. The state court will hold another hearing on Nov. 26.

On Wednesday, the Monetary Authority of Singapore ordered Wirecards local entities to cease their payment activities and return all customer funds by Oct. 14 after the firm told the regulator that its unable to continue providing payment processing services to a significant number of merchants.

While Wirecards Singapore business isnt part of the insolvency proceedings, administrator Michael Jaffe has mandated advisory firm FTI Consulting to help with the planned sale of the local unit, Bloomberg reported last month.

 2020 Bloomberg L.P.
Sri Lanka is looking forward to a $1 billion currency swap with India to boost its foreign reserves and attract more investment into the island nation after its economy was hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic.

Issuing a government reaction to the downgrading of Sri Lankas credit rating by Moodys investor services, countrys state minister of capital markets Ajith Nivard Cabraal on Wednesday said that the latest negotiations with India for $1 billion swap was in addition to the 400 million Sri Lanka received under swap with the RBI in July.

Sri Lanka looks forward to a $1 billion currency swap with Indias Reserve Bank to boost its foreign reserves with action to attract more investment in to the island as measures to boost the island's reserves, he said.

Also read: Sri Lanka seeks fresh currency swap facility, deferment of debt payments from India

The Reserve Bank of India in July this year signed necessary documents for extending a $400 million currency swap facility to Sri Lanka to boost the island nation's draining foreign exchange reserves due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The currency swap arrangement will remain available till November 2022.

Cabraal said the other options available with them were of Samurai (Japanese), Panda (Chinese) bonds and a $700 million syndicated Chinese loan.

On Monday Moody's downgraded the Government of Sri Lanka's long-term foreign-currency issuer and senior unsecured ratings to Caa1 from B2 and changed the outlook to stable.

This was following a review for downgrade that had started mid-April 2020. Moodys said the decision to downgrade reflected its assessment that the coronavirus-induced shock, which Moody's regards as a social risk, will significantly weaken Sri Lanka's already fragile funding and external positions.

Cabraal described the downgrading as premature and unfair.

The negotiations with India which is underway for 1 billion dollar swap was in addition to the 400 million Sri Lanka received under swap with the RBI in July, he said.

Sri Lanka would receive 700 million dollars as the second tranche of the 1.2 billion dollar syndicated Chinese loan of which 500 million had been received in March.

Sri Lanka is also looking forward to 1 billion dollar repurchase agreement with the US Federal Reserve, he said.

Sri Lankas economy, especially the tourism sector, has been hit hard since last year  initially by the Easter Sunday attacks, which killed over 250 people and later by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Till now, the island nation has reported 3,380 infections and 13 deaths, according to local media report.
Police have charged what they say are the ringleaders behind a highly organized circuit of street racing and stunt driving events seen across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area in recent months.

The community has had enough, said Chief Nishan Duraiappah, Peel Regional Police, of the operation, which responded to public complaints about events staged in city streets and in private parking lots. Investigators were able to identify and connect organized street racing crime circles throughout the GTA.

York police laid 10 criminal charges linked to the joint GTA operation, while Peel Regional Police charged six people it said are part of three key groups  ToTakeoverss, 416Wolfpack and 905MexicoRuns  it blames for organizing much of the reckless driving seen on city streets in Toronto, Peel and York Region in recent months.

At Thursdays joint virtual press conference, York Deputy Chief Cecile Hammond spoke about the stunning increase in speeding, stunt driving and car rallies that have prompted complaints from citizens across the GTA.

Hammond said York police started seeing an uptick in reckless behaviour in April shortly after the COVID-19 lockdown began. As of June, stunt driving-related charges were up 128 per cent.

Since the lockdown, the Ontario Provincial Police has seen more than 1,000 examples of dangerous aggressive drivers refusing to stop for police when caught breaking road rules, which OPP Deputy Commissioner Rose DiMarco deemed a significant public safety threat.

Hammond said these coordinated street racing and stunt driving events were attended by droves of people, some of whom were not afraid to obstruct police trying to break up the gatherings.

One of the videos played at the joint press conference showed people hanging out of the windows of modified cars, while the driver performed a ring of doughnuts close to unprotected onlookers.

Another video shows a group taking over an intersection in Scarborough for a stunt-driving event. Some spectators and drivers scramble to evade police, while others create a human barricade blocking police from arresting drivers. The video shows people yelling at the police and even climbing onto the hood of the cruiser.

That video speaks for itself in terms of the blatant disregard for human life and also the blatant disregard for police trying to deal with it, said Toronto Deputy Chief Shawna Coxon.

Even after police broke up events, organizers would direct participants to new locations near the boundaries of Peel and York regions, along the 400-series highways to evade police detection.

Police said it doesnt appear that the stunt drivers or street racers were in it for anything other than bragging rights and to show off in front of a crowd. Some sold merchandise, but there is no evidence of significant monetary gains, police said.

Police across the region worked under the joint banner of Project DRIFT (Dangerous Racing Investigative Focus Team) from mid-July to the end of September.

Police in York Region conducted targeted enforcement from late July to mid-August, resulting in 10 criminal charges and close to 300 provincial offences.

As seen in Wasaga Beach recently, geography is no boundary, with organizers going to great lengths to host illegal events, DiMarco said at Thursdays press conference.

Police said the driving behaviours that were captured far exceeded the threshold of what constitutes a dangerous driving charge. Investigators determined that participants were engaged in highly organized and coordinated attacks on our roads, including taking over entire intersections and disrupting travel of other residents.

This summers operation resulted in the following charges:

Jonathan Rooplal, 25, of Toronto has been charged with dangerous driving (aiding and abetting), obstruct person in lawful seizure, cause disturbance and dangerous driving.

Tyler Kendall, 29, of Brampton has been charged with 12 counts of dangerous driving (aiding and abetting) and obstruct peace officer.

Mohamed Djebel-Ameli, 22, of Richmond Hill has been charged with dangerous driving (aiding and abetting).

Torrell Campbell, 22, of Barrie, has been charged with dangerous driving (aiding and abetting).

Harmanjot Rehal, 23, of Mississauga has been charged with dangerous driving (aiding and abetting).

Amidulla Baluch, 21, from Toronto has been charged with driving while prohibited, failing to comply with recognizance, breach of probation and possession of property obtained by crime.

Jason Miller is a Toronto-based reporter for the Star covering crime and justice in the Peel Region. His reporting is funded by the Canadian government through its Local Journalism Initiative. Reach him on email: jasonmiller@thestar.ca or follow him on Twitter: @millermotionpic
Indian Foreign Service officer Devyani Uttam Khobragade has been appointed as India's next to Cambodia, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Thursday.

Khobragade, a 1999-batch Indian Foreign Service officer, is currently serving as a joint secretary in the ministry at its headquarters in Delhi.

"She is expected to take up the assignment shortly," the MEA said in a release.

In her nearly 21-year career, Khobragade has served in Indian missions in Berlin, Islamabad, Rome and New York.

She had hit the headlines in 2013 as action against her by the authorities in New York on charges of underpaying her Indian maid had snowballed into a major row between the two countries.

She then was serving as India's deputy consul general in New York.

In the MEA headquarters, Khobragade served in several wings including the PAI (Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran), Central Europe, Finance and CPV (Consular Passport, Visa) divisions.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
By Express News Service

KOCHI: The Kerala High Court has observed that the investigation by the CBI into the alleged irregularities in the LIFE Mission Housing Project in Thrissur cannot be stopped. "There are certain grey areas in the issue. Let the investigation go on," the court observed and asked the LIFE Mission to cooperate with the probe.

The HC made the observation when the petition by the LIFE Mission CEO challenging the CBI's investigation into the housing project came up for hearing on Thursday.

Appearing for the state government, K V Viswanathan, senior Supreme Court lawyer, and former Additional Solicitor General, sought to restrain the CBI from taking any coercive measures against the CEO of LIFE Mission as the agency had issued a notice to him asking to produce documents. But the court declined to accept the plea. The court issued a notice to the CBI and Anil Akkara, MLA, who filed a complaint against the LIFE Mission and adjourned the case to next Thursday (October 8) for further hearing.

ALSO READ: Kerala govt files petition in HC challenging CBI probe into LIFE Mission housing project

Justice VG Arun issued the order on the petition filed by the LIFE Mission Chief Executive Officer seeking to quash the First Information Report (FIR) registered by the CBI.

Viswanathan submitted that the state government had no role in the agreement between Red Crescent and the two construction companies - Unitac and Sane Ventures. The CBI had registered the FIR with mala fide intention and the agency was guided by political and extraneous considerations, he argued.

The FIR had alleged violation of section 3 of the Foreign Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act. In fact, the LIFE Mission had not accepted any contribution, much less any foreign contributions. The contractual agreement for the construction of the buildings under the LIFE Mission was executed between the Consular General of United Arab Emirate and Unitac, a construction company. It was the sponsors which had selected Unitac and Sane Ventures for giving contract for constructing the buildings under the project.

"Neither the state government nor LIFE Mission had any role in the section of contractors. Nor had they entrusted any work to these construction companies. The companies which had inked agreements with the Consulate General of United Arab Emirates did not come under any categories of persons prohibited from receiving any foreign contributions under section 3 of the Act," he said.

Even if it was assumed that they had received any contribution or the Red Crescent had provided financial assistance for the project, no offence could be attributed to them. Besides, any amount received by way of fee or cost in lieu of goods or services rendered in the ordinary course would not come under the foreign contributions as per explanation 3 to section 2(h) of the Act, the state government counsel said

The LIFE Mission only gave the land and the two companies that are building the homes received the foreign donations directly into their accounts, the petitioner submitted. On this, the court asked "whether there were any separate agreements between the two companies  Unitac and Sane Ventures  and Red Crescent, which made the donations? There should be some sort of agreement. But the court did not come across any such agreement."

The court also asked, "Could Unitac and other organisations have got these funds without the LIFE mission?"

The CBIs counsel Sasthamangalam S Ajithkumar submitted that the memorandum of understanding signed between the LIFE Mission and the Red Crescent was the genesis of the project. The two constructions came into the picture only at a later stage. "The construction companies were nothing but stooges of government servants," the CBI counsel said.

When asked by the court whether any independent agreement had been signed by the Red Crescent with these companies, the counsel for the CBI said that the investigation is in an embryonic stage and investigation needs to be conducted to find out these aspects and whether they were acting as proxies for government officers or agency for receiving kickbacks. It is therefore fair to continue with the investigation.

He also argued that the petition was not maintainable as the CEO had no locus standi to file the petition. He pointed out that the agency had not named the CEO in the FIR nor had officers been identified by the agency. How can a person, whose name was not in the FIR, challenge the FIR, the CBI counsel asked.

The court observed that the probe cannot be stopped. Let more materials come on record, the court said while pointing out that the CEO of LIFE Mission has not been named as an accused but has only been summoned to produce some documents.

Meanwhile, advocate Abhilash KN, counsel for Santhosh Eappen, MD of Unitac submitted that he has also filed a petition challenging the FIR. He pointed out that there was an agreement between Red Crescent and Unitac.
American, United Airlines to Furlough 32,000 Workers After No Pandemic Stimulus Deal

American Airlines and United Airlines said that they will start to furlough more than 30,000 employees after lawmakers and the White House failed to reach an agreement on stimulus relief measures that would include federal aid for airlines in the midst of the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus.

American Airlines CEO Doug Parker told The Associated Press that if Capitol Hill comes up with a deal in the coming days, the company will reverse nearly 20,000 furloughs that are slated for Thursday. United Airlines added that it has to furlough about 13,000 workers, telling the White House and Congress that if payroll aid is approved, it could undo the furloughs as well.

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby said that we implore our elected leaders to reach a compromise, get a deal done now, and save jobs, according to the Chicago Business Journal.

The CARES Act Payroll Support Program funding for our airline expires today, September 30. That means after months of aggressive cost-cutting and proactive debt-raising actions to manage the company through the Covid-19 crisis and its impact on our business, we regrettably are forced to move forward with the process of involuntarily furloughing about 13,000 of our United team members, he added.

American and United airlines said they would try to apply for more loans from the federal government and will lobby Congress to pass a stimulus deal that includes funding for airlines.

Unfortunately, there is no guarantee that any of these efforts will come to fruition, Parker said in a letter. However, in an effort to encourage competition and keep hope alive for our team, I informed the Secretary [Mnuchin] that if these efforts to extend PSP are successful over the next few days, we will reverse our furlough processes and recall any impacted team members.

The furloughs come in the midst of stalled talks on how to proceed with the stimulus package. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and Democrats unveiled a $2.2 trillion HEROES Act 2.0 that would include airline aid, but it was deemed too expensive by some Republicans, including Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), who told reports that Democrats and Republicans are very far apart.

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Pelosi spoke this week on a deal but no agreements were hashed out yet.

We will be proceeding with our vote tonight on the updated Heroes Act in order to formalize our proffer to Republicans in the negotiations to address the health and economic catastrophe in our country, Pelosi said in a statement.

Its not clear when the two parties will meet again.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 06:04:05|Editor: huaxia

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DUBLIN, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- Irish Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue, said on Wednesday that Ireland is willing to further enhance economic and trade cooperation with China, particularly in the agrifood sector.

McConalogue made this remark while meeting Chinese Ambassador to Ireland He Xiangdong at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) on Wednesday, according to a press statement from the Chinese embassy in Ireland.

McConalogue said that China is Ireland's third largest agrifood market outside the European Union and Ireland looks forward to exporting more high-quality agrifood products to China.

Ambassador He said that China and Ireland are complementary to each other in bilateral trade and China welcomes more Irish agrifood products' entry into the Chinese market.

He said that despite the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global economy, the agrifood trade between China and Ireland has grown steadily thanks to the healthy and steady development of bilateral relations.

China stands ready to work with Ireland to further strengthen communication and expand friendly and mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields, the ambassador said.

During the meeting, McConalogue, on behalf of the Irish government, also extended his warm wishes to the Chinese people on the occasion of the Chinese National Day and the Mid-Autumn Festival, both of which will fall on Oct. 1. Enditem
Energoatom supplies first batch of electricity to Moldova

19:59, 01.10.20 1463

Moldova has become a new and promising area for the enterprise's electricity sales abroad.
EasyCOV, a virological saliva detection test for COVID19, has shown a sensitivity of 88% and a specificity 99% during a clinical trial performed at the testing center operated by the teaching hospital of Montpellier. The test relies on an optimized thermal protocol that provides the results in 40 minutes.

EasyCOV, developed by SkillCell in collaboration with the CNRS (French National Center for Scientific Research), is a saliva test that can be run in the field and that provides results in the form of a change of color in no more than 40 minutes. Performed by a healthcare professional, the test requires the collection of 200 microliters of saliva, approximately 4 drops, from under the patient's tongue. The sample is heated successively in two tubes using the nomadic heating device EasyVID (developed and produced by TRONICO, sister company of SkillCell). A test turning bright yellow indicates that the virus has been detected while an orange test is negative.

A double-blind clinical trial has been conducted at the teaching hospital of Montpellier, France, in real life conditions at the testing center operated by the hospital. During this clinical trial, nasopharyngeal and saliva samples were collected simultaneously and analyzed via RT PCR. These two analyses were used as a basis to establish the infection status of the participants. This status was then compared to the results of EasyCOV test. This analysis showed a sensitivity of 87.5% and a specificity of 99.4% for 220 participants, including 40 positive patients with and without symptoms. EasyCOV test was performed using a thermal protocol giving results in 40 min.

EasyCOV demonstrates with this trial that it is high quality, faster, cost-efficient and not invasive test that can be performed in a large variety of locations without requiring heavy investments.

Alexandra Prieux, President of SkillCell commented EasyCOV is a unique and necessary tool in the fight against COVID 19. It is a real satisfaction for the team that our test is able to bring a concrete answer to the sanitary and economic challenges that we face today.

The EasyCov programme is supported by the French Ministry of Armed Forces via the Direction Generale de l'Armement (Directorate General of Armaments DGA) and the Agence de l'Innovation de Defense (Defense Innovation Agency AID).

About SKILLCELL

SkillCell develops in-field diagnostic tests using its simplicity-centered approach: tests capable of being used by anybody, anywhere and at any time. Founded in Guadeloupe in 2017, the company has offices in France in Jarry (Guadeloupe), Paris and Montpellier. The SkillCell team brings together scientific experts and seasoned manufacturers to find solutions to medical and environmental diagnostic testing issues by providing relevant, high-quality information that allows users to make well-informed choices with full transparency. SkillCell is a subsidiary of ALCEN group. For more information: www.skillcell-alcen.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201001005914/en/

Contacts:

Nathalie Charousset

+33 6 09 26 44 62

presse@skillcell-alcen.com
San Francisco: Facebook has banned ads on its flagship website and Instagram photo and video sharing service that claim widespread voting fraud, suggest US election results would be invalid, or which attack any method of voting.

The company announced the new rules in a blog post, adding to earlier restrictions on premature claims of election victory.

Facebook has expanded the range of election ads it has banned. Credit:Andrew Harrer

The move came a day after US President Donald Trump used the first televised debate with Democratic challenger Joe Biden to amplify his baseless claims that the November 3 presidential election will be "rigged".

Trump has been especially critical of mail-in ballots, and he cited a number of small unrelated incidents to argue that fraud was already happening at scale.
Former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and BSP supremo Mayawati on Thursday demanded imposition of President's rule in the state, following the rape and murder of another Dalit woman in Balrampur district.

Mayawati said that the Hathras incident had led to outrage across the nation and she thought that the Yogi Adityanath government would take steps to curb such incidents from taking place.

"I feel that anti-social elements have taken over the state completely and there is no rule of law left in Uttar Pradesh. The Balrampur incident is a replay of what happened in Hathras. In such circumstances I request that President's rule should be imposed in the state," she said.

The BSP leader further said that as Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was unable to ensure law and order in Uttar Pradesh, it would be better if he returned to his 'Gorakhnath Math'.

"The BJP should entrust the government to some another leader who can manage things better," she added.
Up to 100 million additional doses of any eventual Covid-19 vaccines will be secured for delivery to poorer countries in 2021, health groups announced Tuesday, as the virus showed no sign of receding after claiming more than one million lives around the world.

The announcement doubles the number of doses already secured from the Serum Institute of India by the Gavi vaccine alliance and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, following an initial agreement last month.

The public-private health partnership stressed that the eventual total is potentially several times greater, and said the price would be capped at $3 per dose.

No country, rich or poor, should be left at the back of the queue when it comes to Covid-19 vaccines; this collaboration brings us another step closer to achieving this goal, Gavi chief Seth Berkley said.

As nine vaccine candidates are in last-stage trials, the World Bank said Tuesday it had asked its board of directors to approve $12 billion to help poor countries purchase and distribute vaccines.

A World Bank spokesman said that the global economy will not recover fully until people feel they can live, socialize, work and travel with confidence.

As humanity struggles against Covid-19, the World Health Organization said this week that some 120 million rapid tests will soon be made available to low- and middle-income countries if funding can be secured.

The kits -- faster, cheaper and easier to administer than standard polymerase chain reaction (PCR) swab tests, but also less reliable -- will be rolled out across 133 countries in the next six months.

- European wave -

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday said that responsible leadership matters in steering the world through the pandemic.

Science matters. Cooperation matters -- and misinformation kills, he warned, urging people to respect familiar infection control measures like hand-washing, distancing and mask-wearing.

Case numbers are climbing rapidly in Europe, where governments are clamping down on movement in an attempt to curb the surge.

Germany introduced new limits on the number of people who can attend private events, after Spain, France, Britain and Northern Ireland all imposed fresh restrictions.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said a reaction is necessary after recent outbreaks were frequently traced to weddings and other gatherings.

In Britain, Prime Minister Boris Johnson appeared to share general confusion about his governments measures, apologising after wrongly saying that rules limiting gatherings in northeast England to no more than six people did not apply outdoors.

The Czech Republic and Slovakia said they were preparing to declare a state of emergency.

In Israel, which has the worlds highest infection rate per capita, Health Minister Yuli Edelstein said Tuesday that there was no way the countrys second nationwide coronavirus lockdown would be lifted after three weeks as originally planned.

- New York worries again-

Across the Atlantic, former coronavirus hotspot New Yorks rate of positive tests surged to more than three percent from below two in just 24 hours, authorities said, adding that Orthodox Jewish communities have faced a particularly sharp increase.

The figures were a real cause for concern, Mayor Bill de Blasio told reporters as he introduced fines for those not wearing masks in public.

More than one in ten of the 203,107 people who have so far died of coronavirus in the US were New Yorkers.

US President Donald Trump and Democratic challenger Joe Biden were gearing up for their first televised election debate, with the countrys troubled response to the virus likely to be a battleground.

Hours before the debate, the economic impact of the virus was highlighted by Disney saying it will cut 28,000 jobs from its US theme parks division.

Worldwide the virus has now infected almost 33.5 million people and killed over a million, according to an AFP tally compiled from official sources.

Mid-September saw a record rise in cases in most regions and the WHO has warned that virus deaths could even double to two million.

On Monday, the number of cases in India surpassed six million, with the country on course to overtake the US in the coming weeks as the nation with the most infections.

The countrys lead pandemic agency said Tuesday that as many as 60 million of Indias 1.3 billion population could already have been infected, based on a study of blood antibodies.
The Bharatiya Janata Party brass, including party president JP Nadda and Union home minister Amit Shah, met Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief Chirag Paswan on Thursday, indicating that the wrangling between the National Democratic Alliance partners over seat sharing for the upcoming assembly elections in Bihar is close to a settlement.

Notification for the first phase of elections for 71 assembly seats was issued on Thursday. The elections are to be conducted on October 28.

According to a party functionary aware of the developments, Shahs presence at the meeting is an indication that the differences that cropped up between the allies are on the mend and a decision on the final seat allocation will be announced soon.

This is the second time this week that Nadda has met the LJP president who has been threatening to pull out of the alliance if his demand for a reasonable share of the seats is not met. Paswan has also been targeting the JD(U) for failing to fulfil promises that were made ahead of the last assembly elections.

According to a second functionary, there is a broad agreement that the BJP will accommodate the LJP from its quota of seats while the JD(U) will reserve seats for the HAM from its quota.

It remains to be seen if the BJP and the JD(U) contest an equal number of seats. The BJP cadre has been pushing for an equal distribution of seats, but even if that happens, the JDU will still have more seats to contest from because the HAMs share will not be as much as the LJP has been demanding, said the second party functionary.

Paswan, who told his party workers on Wednesday that a decision will be taken in the interest of the party, did not respond to calls.

It was a day of hectic political activity in state capital Patna, where senior BJP leaders were involved in the series of meeting within the party. According to a top BJP source in Patna, although efforts are on to placate the LJP, the BJP and the JD(U) are still to decide on the numbers and the seats to contest.

The JD (U) has staked its claim on least a dozen BJP sitting seats another functionary said. The scheduled meeting with chief minister Nitish Kumar was deferred twice, once in afternoon and then in evening. The next meeting has been fixed for late evening, said a NDA leader.
Joe Biden stiff-armed the Green New Deal liberal climate plan at Tuesday's debate and offered a pointed reminder of his opposition to Medicare-for-all. He boasted of defeating Sen. Bernie Sanders "by a whole hell of a lot" and sidestepped calls from the left to expand the Supreme Court.

And on Wednesday, Biden said he hadn't recently spoken to Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., the leader of his party's young generation of ascendant liberals.

During his first debate against President Donald Trump, and again the next day, the Democratic nominee distanced himself from his party's left wing in some of his starkest terms yet, pushing back against Trump's efforts to brand him a puppet of "radical socialists."

"What the president keeps trying to do, he's trying to run against somebody other than me," Biden said Wednesday on a whistle-stop tour through Ohio and Pennsylvania. "I've said to the left, the right and the center exactly where I am on each of these issues."

Biden's debate comments, which reflected his commitment to winning over moderates in battleground states, prompted some concern among left-leaning activists, including at least one whose group reached out to his campaign to express his worries. But they were also followed by an embrace from some of the very liberal leaders Biden is keeping at arm's length - including Ocasio-Cortez, one of the chief sponsors of the Green New Deal.

"Our differences are exactly why I joined Biden's climate unity task force - so we could set aside our differences & figure out an aggressive climate plan to address the planetary crisis at our feet," she tweeted late Tuesday, referring to one of the working groups Biden set up with liberals after capturing the nomination. Biden said Wednesday that he while they had not spoken recently, "I appreciated her endorsement."

Her Green New Deal co-sponsor, Sen. Edward Markey, D-Mass., sounded similar notes. "I support the Green New Deal and I'm voting for Vice President Joe Biden," Markey said in a statement. "Donald Trump is wrong. The progressive left is with Joe Biden, and we will pass a Green New Deal."

The collective reaction on the left underlined the difficult balancing act facing the liberal movement since Biden won the nomination. Liberal activists are determined to push him on health care, climate change and economic policy, but they fear that too much resistance could hurt what they see as the overriding priority: defeating Trump. Many do not want to be blamed for derailing his campaign, as they were in 2016 for spurring significant defections from Hillary Clinton.

"Unfortunately, that's the position we're in right now," said Heather Stockwell, who served as a Sanders delegate to the Democratic National Convention and plans to vote for Biden. "We're going at this from a medical perspective: We have to stop the bleeding and hemorrhaging right now."

Trump renewed his efforts to stir divisions Wednesday, tweeting that in the debate, Biden "disrespected Bernie, effectively calling him a loser!" But liberals said that when Trump tries to stoke disagreement in their ranks, it hardens their desire to unite toward the goal of voting him out of office.

"I think no one takes Donald Trump seriously," said Rep. Mark Pocan, D-Wis., who supported Sanders and now backs Biden. "He's somewhere between showman and clown, depending on the day."

Biden's posture at the debate reflected his belief that the path to the White House runs largely though moderate suburbs where voters are sick of Trump but are not ready to embrace ideas such as government-run health care or defunding the police.

But that strategy is not without risk, and some on the left fear that turnout could be depressed among liberal voters. Sanders himself has expressed concerns about Biden's strategy.

At the same time, the senator from Vermont is campaigning virtually for Biden and said Wednesday that he soon plans to hit the road for Biden. "I'm doing everything I can," Sanders said on ABC's "The View." Sanders also defended Biden against Trump's attacks, reiterating that Biden does not agree with him on health care. "I wish he did, but he does not," he said.

Trump and his allies have relentlessly sought to cast Biden as beholden to Sanders's brand of democratic socialism, despite Biden actively rejecting that philosophy in the primary and doing so again in the debate.

"Joe, you agreed with Bernie Sanders's far left on the manifesto, we call it," Trump said in one heated exchange.

"Manifesto?" asked an incredulous Biden.

"And that gives you socialized medicine," interjected Trump.

"Look, hey, I'm not going to listen to him. The fact of the matter is I beat Bernie Sanders," Biden shot back.

"Not by much," Trump retorted.

"I beat him by a whole hell of a lot. I'm here standing facing you, old buddy," snapped Biden.

Biden underscored his commitment to expand the Affordable Care Act with an optional public insurance program, rather than replacing it with Medicare-for-all as Sanders and others want.

Biden repeatedly made the point that he won the nomination by defeating more leftist candidates. "My party is me," Biden said.

Health care is hardly the only major issue that has divided Democrats. While Democrats generally agree about the dire threats presented by climate change, for example, they hold different views of how aggressively to tackle it.

Evan Weber, political director of the Sunrise Movement, a group of youthful climate activists, called it a victory that the Green New Deal got any debate time at all. Still, he said his group reached out to Biden's campaign about the nominee's pointed distancing of himself from the plan, arguing that it could cost him votes. The Biden campaign listened to the concerns, he said, and Biden eased their worries when he told reporters that while he has his own plan, the Green New Deal was not bad.

"The vice president has an enthusiasm and mobilization gap with young people, particularly young people of color," Weber said. "This was an opportunity to reach out to them and get them excited about his campaign. And I'm not sure that his performance on this question did that. So we're hopeful that the campaign sees that as a mistake and misstep."

Earlier this year, there was hope for more cooperation. After Sanders dropped out, he quickly backed Biden and their teams formed unity task forces that issued recommendations on climate change, immigration and health care. Biden also moved closer to Sanders on combating student debt.

But since then there has been less harmony. "I beat the socialist. That's how I got elected," Biden said in an interview with Fox 11 News in Wisconsin last week.

But liberal fears about a second Trump term have prevented the fractures of 2016. Actress Susan Sarandon, a Sanders surrogate who supported the Green Party ticket in 2016, has endorsed Biden as "a vote against fascism." Most left-wing groups that backed Sanders or Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., in the primary have either endorsed Biden or shifted their focus to down-ballot races, not to protests of the nominee.

The dampened enthusiasm for a "Dem Exit," as the Green Party supporters called for in 2016, was on display at a leftist-oriented demonstration near the debate site Tuesday.

Attacks on Trump - including a chant that combined his name with a four-letter word - got far more applause than attacks on the two-party system. Even as Green Party presidential nominee Howie Hawkins roamed near the back of the crowd, some in the crowd wore Biden-Harris masks.

"We may not have the best candidate right now, but God knows, we have the lesser evil," said Asia Jones, the rally's emcee. "I need us to vote. I need Trump and [Vice President] Pence to be out of the White House."

- - -

Weigel and Linskey reported from Alliance, Ohio. The Washington Post's Matt Viser contributed to this report.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 06:01:00|Editor: huaxia

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BRUSSELS, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- The European Union (EU) on Wednesday published its first annual report on the pan-Europe body's overall situation of rule of law.

The 2020 Rule of Law Report shows that many EU member states have high rule-of-law standards, but important challenges exist in the EU, according to a European Commission press release.

"While we have very high rule of law standards in the EU, we also have various challenges. The European Commission will continue working with the national authorities to find solutions, to guarantee people's everyday rights and freedoms," said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

The report covers four main pillars: national justice systems, anti-corruption frameworks, media pluralism and freedom, and other institutional issues. It is meant to enlarge the existing EU toolbox with a new preventive tool, said the commission.

The report also reflects relevant development stemming from the emergency measures to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing some issues that have arisen in the national debates and the legal and political response to the crisis.

"For example, changing or suspending customary national checks and balances can pose particular challenges to the rule of law," said the commission in the press release. Enditem
President Moon Jae-in, left, German Chancellor Angela Merkel / EPA-Yonhap



President Moon Jae-in on Thursday asked German Chancellor Angela Merkel to support South Korean Trade Minister Yoo Myung-hee's bid to become the leader of the World Trade Organization in the latest diplomatic push to win the top post.



Moon said in the about 20-minute phone conversation that Yoo is the best person who can develop and bring back confidence in the world trade body.



Yoo has vowed to focus on rebuilding trust in the multilateral trading system by making it more relevant, resilient and responsive if she gets picked as the new director-general.



Yoo is competing with candidates from Nigeria, Kenya, Saudi Arabia and Britain in the second round of the elimination process, which is set to run through next Tuesday.



In the second round, three out of five candidates will be removed, leaving just two runners in the third and final stage for the top post of the global trade body.



The final result  which is to be selected through consensus among 164 member countries  is widely expected to be delivered in early November.



Merkel told Moon that she thinks Yoo is a qualified candidate who has expertise for the top job of the WTO, according to the presidential office.



Yoo was appointed as trade minister in February last year, becoming the first woman to take the top-ranking position in the 70-year history of South Korea's trade ministry.



Last month, Moon also sent a letter to Germany seeking for its support for Yoo's bid.



Also last month, South Korea's Deputy Foreign Minister Kim Gunn met with Stanley Loh, second permanent secretary at Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and asked for Singapore's support for Yoo's bid for the top post of the WTO.



Her bid comes amid escalating trade tension between the United States and China, and a frayed relationship between South Korea and Japan.



Last month, Yoo visited the U.S. to secure Washington's support for her campaign to become the next director-general of the WTO.



U.S. support is widely seen as crucial in winning the top post of the WTO, as the U.S. is the biggest contributor to the WTO in terms of budget.



In 2018, Moon met with Merkel in Brussels, Belgium, on the sidelines of the Asia-Europe Meeting. (Yonhap)


Kim Foxx said no this week to a debate against her Republican opponent in the Cook County states attorneys race and will not sit on a stage with him at all as she campaigns for reelection. The incumbent is bowing out of debates because of past editorial board interviews in which each candidate argued their case to be Cook Countys top prosecutor, Foxxs spokeswoman Alex Sims wrote in a statement.
Law enforcement units at the scene had to deploy pepper spray on some people who refused to cooperate with law enforcements request to cease fighting and disperse. The sheriff's office also was assisted by Rowan County EMS and several local fire departments to assist with traffic and treat anyone injured during the fights that broke out.

The sheriff's office established a site for people to be picked up by their parents at the Walgreens in China Grove, near the location. The sheriff's office had two Detention Center transport vans respond to the location to assist in transporting people from Reapers Realm and areas surrounding the location to the Walgreens so they could be picked up by their parents. The Rowan County Criminal Investigative Unit responded to Reapers Realm to conduct an investigation of the entire incident. Detectives had to interview multiple witnesses and handle multiple scenes that required the collection of evidence.
UPDATED 1 OCTOBER Three journalists from the Azerbaijan Public Television ITV who were reporting from the Azerbaijani-Armenian frontline have been fired upon by Armenian armed forces on 29 September. The International and European Federation of Journalists (IFJ/EFJ) call on Armenian and Azeri authorities to secure journalists' safety.

An unexploded artillery shell on a road in the Tartar region during clashes between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Credits: TOFIK BABAYEV / AFP

The journalists were reporting on the clashes between Azeri and Armenian armed forces in the Tartar region in Azerbaijan when Armenian armed forces suddenly started firing at their car. The journalists escaped without injuries, but the broadcasters car was severely damaged.

Correspondent Shohrat Eyvazov - who reports on the frontline for ITV - told the Azeri union JuHI that his colleagues involved in the incident were clearly identifiable as press corps and were wearing press uniforms and driving a car marked with ITV logo.

Several dozens of civilians and soldiers have been killed since 27 September when clashes between Armenian and Azerbaijani armed forces escalated in the Nagorno-Karabakh region which has been subject to a decade-long conflict. The region is officially part of Azerbaijan but has been under the control of ethnic Armenian forces backed by the Armenian government since 1994.

According to the Armenian news agency Armenpress, an Azerbaijani military drone has also made threatening approaches on 28 September against a group of reporters covering the conflict in the town of Martuni in Armenia.

Netblocks NGO reported on Sunday that social media and communications platforms were restricted across Azerbaijan following clashes with Armenia over Nagorno-Karabakh.

IFJ General Secretary Anthony Bellanger said: It is essential to publish accurate reporting about the conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh. This means that journalists must be able to report without fearing attacks. We call on Azeri and Armenian authorities to ensure the safety and independence of the press corps reporting on the ground."

Updated (01/10/2020): Two reporters with the French newspaper Le Monde and two Armenian journalistswere injured by Azerbaijani artillery in the town of Martuni, part of the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh, on 1 October, Armenias foreign ministry said.

Updated (02/10/2020): The two wounded reporters have been evacuated by the French government.
CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- An analysis of energy data conducted by Sense, a leading smart home energy company, reveals that 20% of Americans have HVAC systems that cost the homeowner an extra $882 annually on average to keep their homes coolalmost four times as much as the most efficient similar homes.* The 20% of homes with highest cooling use have a big impact on the nation's energy picture, accounting for 45% of all cooling consumption nationwide. Updating these least efficient homes could save 8% of US residential electricity usage overall and have a significant impact on U.S. climate change goals by eliminating nearly 52M tons of CO2 emissions annually.

Sense compared AC energy usage across the U.S. to identify homes that were less efficient.

Updating and weatherizing the least efficient homes in the country could save consumers $15.3B annually while moving the country closer to climate change goals. Incentive programs that updated the 20% of homes with the highest cooling usage would eliminate 115 billion kWh of electricity usage annually. By comparison, in 2019 the U.S. generated 107 billion kWh from solar and 300 billion kWh from wind.

Says Sense CEO Mike Phillips: "As the country transitions rapidly to a clean electric economy, policymakers and utilities need to develop initiatives that have a big impact in a short period of time. The problem is we've been operating in a data vacuum with little knowledge about energy consumption inside the home. That's changing as innovations in machine learning can deliver digitized energy data that pinpoints the highest potential savings in the residential sector while enabling collaboration with homeowners to lower their energy costs as quickly and directly as possible."

The study used anonymized data to analyze electricity use for air conditioners in nearly 15,000 homes across the U.S. and compared the 20% of homes with highest electricity usage for air conditioning to the most efficient similar homes. The efficient homes had similar square footage and geographic location but had the 20% lowest AC use, showing what's possible with upgrades to the home's HVAC equipment and home thermal performance.

Analysis of peak demands could help avoid rolling blackouts

The study also examined impacts on peak energy consumption. In California, the demands on the grid from millions of homes running air conditioning during peak evening hours (from 6 to 8 pm) prompted rolling blackouts this summer. Sense's data shows that if the 20% least efficient houses in California were upgraded to match the most efficient homes, peak AC consumption would drop by 27.5%, reducing overall residential electricity usage at peak by 13.5%. Reducing peak loads so substantially would make the transition to low carbon energy a more realistic and achievable goal for policymakers and utilities, and reduce the current reliance on peak energy from carbon sources like natural gas - or expensive battery storage.

According to the EIA, heating and cooling account for more than half (51%) of a household's annual energy consumption, so improving a home's performance can have a big impact on consumer costs. Starting with an energy audit, residents can assess which of the following factors have the biggest impacts on their heating and cooling bill: the efficiency of the HVAC system itself, whether the home's envelope is well insulated and tightly sealed, or the residents' preferred thermostat settings. Updating an older, inefficient HVAC system or switching from oil or electric heat to a heat pump system can deliver significant efficiencies and pay off within a few years for many consumers.

States lead with aggressive goals

Many states have committed to ambitious goals to decarbonize their energy systems, and energy efficiency is a key part of those goals. For instance, New York has adopted aggressive targets to decarbonize the power sector by 2040 and reach net-zero economy-wide by 2050. The Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA) set a 2025 statewide energy efficiency target that will deliver nearly one-third of its greenhouse gas emissions goal of a 40% reduction by 2030. The state has called upon its utilities to achieve significantly more, in both scale and innovation, in their energy efficiency activities.

Being able to identify and target homes with inefficient HVAC systems will help utilities reach those goals faster and at lower cost. In New York, Sense data shows that transitioning the 20% of homes with the highest AC usage to equal the most efficient similar homes would reduce New York state's residential electricity use by 6%. Homes with the highest 20% AC energy consumption have an outsize impact on the state's energy footprint, too, accounting for 40% of all residential cooling consumption. Residents in homes with the highest AC energy use pay the price by spending $782 more annually compared to the most efficient homes.

While states have taken the lead to mitigate climate change, an aggressive national commitment to electrify all aspects of our economy would create up to 25 million good-paying American jobs over the next 15 years and 5 million sustained jobs by mid-century, according to Rewiring America. It could generate up to $2,000 annual savings for the average household on energy costs, dramatically lower CO2 emissions, and improve health outcomes by reducing air pollution.

Sense is working closely with its partners Schneider Electric and Landis+Gyr to digitize electricity in the home. By gathering intelligence about the key resources entering the home, such as electricity and water, smart homes can discover problems and optimize resources far more efficiently than in the past.

For consumers, the energy-smart home will make life more convenient and efficient. Consumers will be able to tell their home, "Charge my car by 7 am tomorrow," and the smart home will figure out how to charge at the least cost and lowest carbon impact by tapping into data from the utility. Your home will also remind you about the best ways to use clean energy. For instance, it might prompt you to turn on your dishwasher or washing machine when solar power is produced abundantly on your roof or from the energy grid. Even better, the dishwasher will turn itself on when the energy cost is lowest, responding to information from the utility grid and your solar roof. When you go on vacation, your home will hibernate in low-energy mode until you return. Smart homes will share information that makes it easier for you to take care of your home, and your smart home will take better care of you, too.

*How the data was analyzed

Sense's data was gathered through an initiative in Sense Labs, an invention space where the company tries out new ideas that will make smart homes more insightful and less wasteful than they are today. Through a Labs project for AC energy comparison, Sense analyzed HVAC data from 14,948 representative homes across the country that have the Sense Home Energy Monitor to determine how efficiently the homes were cooled during summer 2020 relative to other users. The 20% of homes with highest AC usage were compared to the 20% of homes with lowest AC usage that were similar in size, zip code, and weather data. For the New York state data, the study analyzed 733 homes.

About Sense

Sense's mission is to make all homes intelligent by keeping people informed about what's happening in their homes, and helping to make homes safer, more efficient, and more reliable. Founded in 2013 by pioneers in speech recognition, Sense uses machine learning technology to provide real-time insights on device behavior, even for those devices that are not "smart." Customers rely on Sense for a wide range of uses including monitoring their home appliances, determining whether they left appliances running and identifying how to reduce their energy costs. Sense has received investments from two of the world's largest energy technology companies, Schneider Electric and Landis + Gyr. Sense is headquartered in Cambridge, Mass. To make sense of your energy, visit: https://sense.com.

Media contact:

[email protected]

SOURCE Sense

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www.sense.com


Thursday's joint drills were the third between Egypt and France in 2019 as they conducted naval drills earlier in July and February

Egyptian and French naval forces have conducted an exercise in the Mediterranean Sea, with the participation of Egypts FREMM frigate Tahya Misr and new Type-209/1400 submarine and the French frigate Latouche-Treville.

A statement by the official spokesperson of the Egyptian Armed Forces said on Thursday that the naval drills come in light of the Armed Forces General Commands plan to raise the level of combat training and exchange expertise with the armed forces of Egypts friendly countries.



The exercise included many different training activities, such as securing and protecting an important area against the threat of submarines at night, electronic warfare training, in addition to training for responding to and deterring asymmetrical threats.



It also involved training on various sailing formations, and conducting signal transportation exercises.



The drills come in light of endeavours meant to boost Egypt-France military cooperation, in a way that contributes to honing combat and operational skills for the two countries' armed forces.



They also support efforts that aim to maintain maritime security, stability and peace in the Mediterranean region.

Thursday's joint drills were the third between Egypt and France in 2019 as they conducted naval drills earlier in February and July.

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SCS EXPERT is the first expandable percutaneous lead for neuromodulation treatment for chronic pain

New investors, led by CDP Venture Capital, and including Indaco Ventures I and EUREKA! Venture, join existing participating investors in financing round

Adds to EUR 2.3M grant earlier in 2020 from the European Commission to launch SCS EXPERT

WISE Srl, a medical device company developing next-generation implantable leads for neuromonitoring, neuromodulation and brain-machine interfacing, today announced the closing of a EUR 15 million Series C financing round. New investors, led by CDP Venture Capital SGR, and including Indaco Ventures I Fund and EUREKA! Venture SGR, joined existing investors participating in this round Principia SGR, New Frontier, Atlante Seed and Atlante Ventures (funds managed by Indaco Venture Partners SGR), High Tech Grunderfonds and F3F.

The proceeds will be partially used to accelerate the development of the Company's second product, SCS EXPERT (EXpandable PERcuTaneous), a percutaneously implantable multi-column paddle lead for Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS). The funds will also support the upcoming launch of its first product, WISE Cortical Strip (WCS), a single use medical device for IntraOperative Neurophysiological Monitoring during brain tumor and epilepsy surgeries, which is anticipating the granting of its CE mark.

This financing adds to the recent European Commission grant of EUR 2.3 million given to WISE in July 2020, to support the development and launch of SCS EXPERT within the EIC Accelerator program of Horizon 2020.

"We are delighted with the support we have received for our latest funding round and welcome our new investors," said Luca Ravagnan, CEO at WISE. "With this additional funding, we will be able to accelerate our plans to launch SCS EXPERT, as we make progress toward FDA clearance and market launch."

He added, "With support from our engaged investors, we remain committed to build on our innovative drive and passion to provide the best lead with the least invasive implantation procedure to the SCS market, potentially bringing higher relief to patients suffering from chronic pain and other disorders."

Chronic pain is a debilitating disease for sufferers and treatment costs billions for the European and US healthcare systems each year. Globally, around 328 million people suffer from high-impact chronic pain pain that lasts three months or longer, and is accompanied by at least one major activity restriction.

To date, the therapeutic market has been dominated by drugs from several classes including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and opioid analgesics. However, the increased scrutiny of opioid use worldwide has led to a significant rise in interest in alternative treatments, such as neuromodulation using SCS implants. The current neuromodulation market has an estimated value of $5.8 billion, with over 50% of the value given by the SCS sector.

SCS implants work by blocking pain signals before they reach the brain through the delivery of electrical stimuli to the spinal cord by means of implantable leads. Currently there are two types of implantable leads available multi-column paddle leads and cylindrical leads. Multi-column paddle leads offer better overall treatment results, but current products can only be inserted surgically.

Thanks to its proprietary SCBI technology, WISE is the first company capable of producing a multi-column paddle lead the SCS EXPERT that can be folded in a catheter and implanted percutaneously like a cylindrical lead, i.e. with no surgical intervention required. This will offer the opportunity to the patient for the first time to receive the best SCS lead with the least invasive implantation procedure.

New investor, Laura Scaramella, Partner at CDP Venture Capital SGR said: "We are delighted to support WISE's brilliant team in this important phase. The technological advantage deriving from the unique characteristics of the proprietary technologies underlying its medical leads has been validated with the first product, WISE Cortical Strip. We are confident this will be a distinctive feature also of SCS EXPERT, thus confirming the enormous potential that WISE has in its ability to offer cutting edge solutions to unmet medical needs, hence to improve quality of life of millions of people."

New investor, Massimo Gentili from EUREKA! Venture SGR added:WISE's sound and consistent IP package and the material-based approach originally developed at the University of Milan nicely fits with EUREKA!'s goals. The experienced management team and a clear path to the market confirms the high potential of their technology. The excellence in developing the technological platform from research to a product that is ready-to-be-launched, demonstrates that Italian technology transfer deals are feasible."

Paolo Siviero from Principia SGR added: "WISE has made significant progress since we first invested in 2015 and we are pleased to continue supporting the Company's work. We believe the SCS Expert leads will be a major step forward in the treatment of chronic pain and provide an important alternative treatment for patients. The Company has a clear commercialization strategy for its lead product and the technology to create further innovative products.

Davide Turco, CEO of Indaco Venture Partners SGR concluded: "Our Funds have been supporting WISE since the Seed stage and we are very pleased that, thanks to its outstanding team and technology, the Company has been able to raise this new important equity round by qualified investors. We are delighted to participate in this round again with our latest fund, Indaco Ventures I, with the core mission to finance large equity rounds that enable advanced technologies to reach the market."

End

About WISE

WISE S.r.l. has developed a genuinely new generation of leads for neuromonitoring, neuromodulation and brain machine interfacing by means of its proprietary Supersonic Cluster Beam Implantation (SCBI) technology.

Neuromonitoring and neuromodulation require electrodes and leads to be surgically implanted on neural tissues (as for instance the brain and the spinal cord) to apply electrical stimuli or to record the electrical activity. The leads produced using WISE's new SCBI technology consist of stretchable electronic circuits integrated in very thin elastomeric foils. As a result, WISE's electrodes are highly ergonomic, conformable, soft and thin, thus allowing great adhesion, minimal invasiveness and excellent adaptability on neural tissues.

In parallel with the development of the SCS EXPERT lead, WISE will be soon launching the WISE Cortical Strip (WCS), a single use medical device for IntraOperative Neurophysiological Monitoring during brain tumor and epilepsy surgeries. The WCS is used for continuous recording of the brain's electrical activity and for brain stimulation. The Company has applied for its CE mark.

Founded in 2011 by a team of material scientists coming from the University of Milan, WISE has so far received funding from Agite!, Atlante Seed and Atlante Ventures, b-to-v, HTGF, Principia SGR, New Frontier and private investors, and closed a Series C funding round in 2020 with new investors (CDP Venture Capital SGR, Indaco Ventures I Fund and Eureka! Venture SGR). In 2016, the Company established its production plant in Cologno Monzese, Milan, Italy (1000 m2 wide, comprising cleanrooms and production laboratories compliant for the manufacturing of implantable medical devices) and has an office in Berlin, Germany.

For more information, please visit: www.wiseneuro.com.

About CDP Venture Capital SGR

CDP Venture Capital SGR Fondo Nazionale Innovazione CDP Venture Capital is an asset management company (of which 70% is held by CDP Equity and 30% by Invitalia) with an AuM of 1 billion. The mission of the firm is to make Venture Capital a strategic pillar to Italy's economic growth and innovation, creating the conditions for a comprehensive and sustainable growth of the Venture Capital ecosystem. It operates through a set of funds that aim to support startups in all their development phases and through a mix of direct and indirect investments.

For more information, please visit: https://www.cdpventurecapital.it.

About Indaco Venture Partners SGR

Founded in 2016, today Indaco Venture Partners SGR is the largest independent Italian venture capital asset management company, with a strong experience in companies that innovate in electronics and robotics, medtech, digital and new materials. Indaco manages over 250 million across its five funds.

For more information, please visit: www.indacosgr.com.

About EUREKA! Venture SGR

EUREKA! Venture SGR is an independent venture capital firm exclusively focused on deep tech investments. The firm manages Eureka! Fund I Technology Transfer": investments are focused on proof of concept, seed and early stage deals in spinoffs and startups steaming out from Italian Universities and Research Centers. Ideas and companies backed by Eureka! Fund has a competitive advantage stems from cutting-edge proprietary technologies and innovations in materials science with a clear and unique vision on intellectual property rights.

For more information, please visit: https://www.eurekaventure.it.

About Principia SGR

Principia SGR is one of the leading Italian venture capital firms. Currently the company manages three investment funds, called Principia Fund, Principia Principia II and III Health. Through the first two funds today fully invested Principia has funded about 40 companies in the start-up phase and by supplying growth capital. Principia III Health is one of the main Venture Capital and Growth Capital funds in Italy specifically dedicated to the healthcare sector. The fund, with a size of 206 million euro, has realized 16 investments in start-up and early-stage companies as well as small and medium sized (SME) companies, with already 2 successful exits completed. Goal is to contribute to the development of a sector in Italy that is characterized by the presence of high skills and internationally recognized quality but suffers currently from the lack of financial support. For more information, please visit: www.principiasgr.it

About New Frontier

Located in Padua (Italy), New Frontier is a privately-owned Italian company focused on investments in innovative enterprises. New Frontier srl, is attributable to the Family Office of the Rossi Luciani family, majority shareholder of Carel Industries, listed on the Milan Stock Exchange, invests in start-up and early-stage companies with a high growth potential, with a particular focus on Italian companies in the bio-tech industry.

About High-Tech Grunderfonds

High-Tech Grunderfonds (HTGF) is a seed investor that finances high-potential, tech-driven start-ups. With around EUR 900 million in total investment volume across three funds and an international network of partners, HTGF has already helped forge almost 600 start-ups since 2005. Driven by their expertise, entrepreneurial spirit and passion, its team of experienced investment managers and startup experts help guide the development of young companies. HTGF's focus is on high-tech start-ups in the fields of digital tech, industrial technology, life sciences, chemistry and related business areas. To date, external investors have injected over EUR 2.6 billion into the HTGF portfolio via more than 1,600 follow-on financing rounds. HTGF has also successfully sold interests in more than 100 companies.

Investors in the public-private partnership include the Federal Ministry of Economics and Energy, KfW Capital, the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft and 32 companies (Our Fund Investors). For more information, please visit: www.htgf.de/en

About F3F

F3F is an Italian company controlled by biotech and healthcare entrepreneur Laura Iris Ferro. Based in Milan the company has an investment policy aimed at taking stakes in diversified business with high return potential including traditional ones as real estate and innovative ones such as life science.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201001005125/en/

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WISE Srl

Dr. Luca Ravagnan, CEO

+39 02 84962493

E: info@wiseneuro.com.



Instinctif Partners for WISE Srl

Melanie Toyne-Sewell Agnes Stephens Kiki Zaccagnini

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Turkey has acknowledged that it was not making all confirmed coronavirus cases public in its daily announced tally, but counting only those patients showing symptoms.

Many doctors for months have been warning that the actual scale of the pandemic is much wider in Turkey than has been depicted in the official figures.

We have been saying that for six months, said the Turkish Medical Association on Twitter, addressing the government. You concealed the truth. You did not stop the epidemic.

Turkey had imposed a partial lockdown during weekends and official holidays, banned travel between cities and closed social facilities like gyms and cafes, but it avoided any measure that would further harm an already staggering economy. The country has recorded at least 318,000 confirmed cases and nearly 8,200 deaths, according to a New York Times database.
International Day of Non-Violence is celebrated on October 2. The date of October 2 is the date of birth of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation. Mahatma Gandhi led India's freedom movement and preached the philosophy of non-violence. It is said that the philosophy of non-violence was developed by Gandhi in conjunction with the famous Russian writer Lev Talsttoy. The UN General Assembly passed a resolution on June 15, 2007 urging the world to follow the idea of peace and non-violence and celebrate Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary as "International Day of Non-Violence".

It was decided to celebrate the day as 'nternational Day of Non-Violence' to appreciate Mahatma Gandhi's contribution to promoting the message of peace around the world through the policy of non-violence. The issue was fully supported by the resolution put forward by India in the UN General Assembly. Out of a total of 191 member countries of the General Assembly, more than 140 countries co-sponsored the proposal. In addition to India's neighbouring countries like Afghanistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Bhutan, many countries in Africa and the United States continent were also present. Recognizing the significance of non-violence in the present world order, the proposal was passed unanimously without voting. The resolution passed by the General Assembly on 15th June, 2007 said, "There will be widespread dissemination of non-violence among the people through education. The resolution also reinforces that "the universal relevance of the principle of non-violence and peace, tolerance and culture should be protected by non-violence." "

Gandhiji's philosophy and his ideology have been influenced by the teachings of the true and non-violence Bhagavad Gita and Hindu beliefs, Jainism and Leo Tolsto's pacifist Christianity. Gandhiji was a vegetarian and a Hindu idea of celibacy. They believed in the central and practical purity and had a silent vow for 1 day in the week. He was confident that by restraint on speaking, he gives them inner peace, this effect should be taken in silence and peace. After returning from South Africa, Gandhiji had stopped wearing Western-style clothes, which was associated with his prosperity and success. He supported indigenously woven fabrics i.e. Khadi. He and his followers adopted the cloth of khadi woven from yarn. He has woven the cloth from the charkha and has also made it to other people to do so. The Charkha was later included in the flag of the Indian National Congress. Gandhiji has told the story of my experiment with his life story truth about philosophy and about the style of life.

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These three parties will contest Bihar Assembly Elections together

Tamil Nadu: Fake profiles of policemen are extorting money from residents; arrested

Kerala CM Vijayan rejects all claims terming them as 'Baseless'
- Deputy President William Ruto arrived at the Jubilee Party headquarters on the morning of Thursday, October 1

- He was soon joined by over 15 Tanga Tanga politicians for the meeting which went on after journalists were locked out

- The nature of the meeting was not immediately established but Meru senator Mithika Linturi said they had been invited by the party

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Several journalists were locked outside the Jubilee Party headquarters when Deputy President William Ruto and allies held a secret meeting earlier Thursday, October 1.

Ruto who was soon followed by over 15 Tanga Tanga loyalists was the first person to arrive at the Pangani offices at around 9am for the said deliberation.

William Ruto when he first made a surprise visit to Jubilee Party offices on September 22. The DP and over 15 MPs met again on October 1. Photo: William Samoei Ruto.

Source: Facebook

Invited by the party

The nature of the meeting was not immediately established but Meru senator Mithika Linturi who hurriedly spoke to the media said they had been invited by the party.

Notable leaders present were Kandara MP Alice Wahome, Gatundu South lawmaker Moses Kuria, Kimilili's Didmus Barasa and senators Susan Kihika and Millicent Omanga among others.

This was the second time Ruto made an impromptu visit to the party office months after his close associates claimed he had been denied access owing to his poor working relationship with its leadership.

On September 22, he and Lang'ata legislator Nixon Korir walked into the premises in what was said to be laying the ground for the upcoming December by-elections.

Kandara MP Alice Wahome was among Tanga Tanga politicians who joined Ruto at the said meeting. Photo: Alice Muthoni Wahome.

Source: Facebook

UhuRuto bad blood

The alleged bad blood between him and President Uhuru Kenyatta saw him open parallel party offices in July where he hosted atleast 16 Jubilee MPs.

The meeting was held in Karen at Jubilee Asili centre, the DP's private office, which reports indicated would become the official nerve centre for the Tanga Tanga faction.

Sources close to him intimated he was considering to register Jubilee Asili as a new party to push for his 2022 presidential ambitions.

However, registration of the new outfit would be based on the circumstances arising from the ruling party presidential nomination.

"We commissioned Jubilee Asili Centre because we still believe in the original Jubilee dream; we shall move along with the aspirations that we had in the original Jubilee dream," said Soy MP Caleb Kositany.

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This is me coming to you with a heavy heart. My friends left after I got cancer - Esther Nyambura/TUKO TV.

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Amazon has filled the roof of a massive two million square foot fulfilment centre in Essex with 11,500 solar panels as part of a pledge to move to renewable energy by 2025.

With an annual production of around 2,700 megawatt hours - or a capacity of 4.83 megawatts - the Amazon 'solar system' will generate the equivalent electricity needed to power 700 homes for one year.

The impressive installation was unveiled on Thursday at Amazon's fulfilment centre in Tilbury, Essex - the second largest Amazon facility in the world and the largest in Europe.

The solar development is part of Amazon's Climate Pledge, launched last year that commits the company to move to fully renewable energy and become net zero carbon across the whole business by 2040.

Amazon has filled the roof of a massive two million square foot fulfilment centre in Tilbury, Essex, with 11,500 solar panels as part of a pledge to move to renewable energy by 2025

With an annual production of around 2,700 megawatt hours - or a capacity of 4.83 megawatts - the Amazon 'solar system' will generate the equivalent electricity needed to power 700 homes for one year

The impressive installation was unveiled on Thursday at Amazon's fulfilment centre in Tilbury, Essex - the second largest Amazon facility in the world and the largest in Europe

Brittany Stanton, Senior Energy Programme Manager at Amazon, said they were putting their 'scale and inventive culture' to work on sustainability and saving the planet for future generations.

'We are proud of the fact that Amazon has a goal to power our global infrastructure using 100 per cent renewable energy,' Stanton explained.

'This solar panel installation is just one of the ways we are working to make our fulfilment centre network sustainable.'

To reach the 100 per cent renewable energy goal by 2025 Amazon plans to invest in more large on-site solar installations throughout the fulfilment network.

These solar systems are then able to power the centres directly, reducing their reliance on fossil fuels or other energy - but they also plan to contribute to the grid.

'We will also invest in large off-site renewable energy, wind and solar projects where the power goes into our local utility grids,' said Stanton.

'We're investing in sustainability and renewable energy projects of this kind because it's good for the environment, good for our communities, and good for business.'

This latest solar system, future renewable installations and other projects form part of the wider Amazon Climate Pledge, first announced in 2019, the company confirmed.

The solar development is part of Amazon's Climate Pledge, launched last year that commits the company to move to fully renewable energy and become net zero carbon across the whole business by 2040

Brittany Stanton, Senior Energy Programme Manager at Amazon, said they were putting their 'scale and inventive culture' to work on sustainability and saving the planet for future generations

This latest solar system, future renewable installations and other projects form part of the wider Amazon Climate Pledge, first announced in 2019, the company confirmed

The pledge is an outline of the wider commitment to be completely free of carbon emissions by 2040 - a decade ahead of the Paris Climate Agreement target.

The Paris agreement urges countries and companies to work to remove or offset carbon emissions by 2050 in a bit to stop temperatures rising by more than 3.6F over pre-industrial levels by 2100.

The idea is that these are the minimum measures required to stop the worst effects of climate change from happening.

These effects could include extreme heatwaves, rising sea levels from ice caps and glaciers melting and severe weather.

To reach the 100 per cent renewable energy goal by 2025 Amazon plans to invest in more large on-site solar installations throughout the fulfilment network

As part of the Climate Pledge Amazon is also moving to fully-electric delivery vehicles and investing $100 million in reforestation projects around the world

To reach the 100 per cent renewable energy goal by 2025 Amazon plans to invest in more large on-site solar installations throughout the fulfilment network

As part of the pledge Amazon is also moving to fully-electric delivery vehicles and investing $100 million in reforestation projects around the world.

The pledge commits Amazon and other signatories to measuring and reporting greenhouse gas emissions and implementing decarbonisation strategies.

'We're done being in the middle of the herd on this issuewe've decided to use our size and scale to make a difference,' said Jeff Bezos, Amazon founder and CEO.

'If a company with as much physical infrastructure as Amazon - which delivers more than 10 billion items a year - can meet the Paris Agreement 10 years early, then any company can,' he said in 2019 when announcing the pledge.
Having led the resistance, are they eager to speak truth to power (their own) and publicly examine their roles in carrying the water for it all? It doesnt seem so. The Department of Justice is investigating the extent to which federal law enforcement was used as political muscle, and U.S. Attorney John Durham is preparing his report on the matter. But its all being brushed off as Republican Party talking points.
Ivory Coast, the world's biggest cacao exporter, said Thursday it would hike the guaranteed minimum price for farmers by 21 percent for the 2020-2021 growing season.

The announcement was made by President Alassane Ouattara at the start of an annual trade fair for the cacao industry, the West African country's biggest economic sector.

"We have decided to increase the price from 825 to 1,000 CFA francs (from $1.48 to $1.79) a kilo," he said to applause from farmers in the capital Yamoussoukro.

The price floor is set once a year.

The announcement comes in the run-up to a presidential election on October 31 in which Ouattara, 78, is controversially seeking a third term in office.

Critics accuse him of trying to get around the country's two-term presidential limit by tweaking the constitution in order to reset his number to zero.

Around 15 people were killed in clashes in August, and the opposition has called on the public to carry out "civil disobedience."

Ivory Coast produces more than 40 percent of the world's cacao -- the raw ingredient for chocolate, grown from cocoa beans.

The 2020-21 harvest in Ivory Coast is likely to be the same as in 2019-21, at around 2.1 million tonnes, according to the International Cocoa Organisation (ICCO), an estimate that depends on political calm.

Cacao accounts for between 10 and 15 percent of the country's gross domestic product (GDP) and nearly 40 percent of its export revenue, according to the World Bank.

At least five million people, or about a fifth of the population, depend on the sector for work.

'Living income' premium

The figure of 1,000 CFA per kilo is the same as that announced last week by neighbouring Ghana, which accounts for around 20 percent of global cacao output.

The two countries have been working together since last year to try to shore up prices on the world market.

They have introduced a "living income differential," or LID -- a premium aimed at combatting poverty among farmers -- that is negotiated with cocoa and chocolate multinationals.

Ivory Coast. By (AFP)

The new floor price of 1,000 francs takes into account the LID of $400 per tonne that has been agreed for the 2020-21 season.

"If Ghana and Cote d'Ivoire can stick together, (the) living income differential will be there forever," said Joseph Boahen Aidoo, chief executive of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), referring to Ivory Coast by its French name.

The increase to 1,000 francs brings Ivory Coast's guaranteed minimum price to 2015 levels, which then rose to 1,100 francs in 2016 before collapsing.

But some farmers told AFP that the hike still fell far short of what was needed.

"It's just enough to survive. We would have preferred 1,200 francs," said N'Dri Kouao.

"It's progress, but it's not enough to live on. We need 1,400 or 1,500 francs to cope," said Moussa Kone, president of the National Agricultural Union for Progress in Ivory Coast (SYNAP-CI).

Election pitch

The ceremony in Yamoussoukro was virtually a campaign event for Ouattara, whose re-election bid is styled on claims of stability and economic revival.

Ouattara told the farmers the increase would bring state support for the cacao sector to 355 billion francs -- $630 million -- annually.

Sweet announcement: Ouattara unveiled the price hike on National Cocoa and Chocolate Day. By SIA KAMBOU (AFP)

"You can count on me," the president said.

His agriculture minister, Kobenan Kouassi Adjoumani, told the audience, "Go everywhere into your villages and announce the good news of President Ouattara's candidacy... the president has done a lot for you, in return, you have a duty of acknowledging him."

The remarks drew a mixture of laughter and applause.

Ouattara won 2010's election, but the result was rejected by then-president Laurent Gbagbo.

A brief civil war erupted, claiming around 3,000 lives, before Ouattara ousted Gbagbo, who was then put on trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague.

Gbagbo has since been acquitted and remains in Brussels pending the outcome of an appeal against that verdict.

But he remains a powerful figure back in a country still traumatised by the violence.
A total of 3,037 fresh coronavirus cases in the national capital took the infection tally to 2.82 lakh on October 1, while the death toll mounted to 5,401, authorities said. Forty fatalities due to the disease were recorded in the last 24 hours in the city, they said.

A total of 55,423 COVID-19 tests were conducted, officials said, adding the number of containment zones stands at 2,615. According to the Delhi government's health bulletin, Union cabinet secretary conducted a meeting on Public Health Response to COVID-appropriate behavior' via video conferencing.

Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain also held a meeting with medical directors or medical superintendents of all state-run hospitals to review the status of coronavirus testing. Delhi chief secretary took a review meeting of all district magistrates on COVID-19 management, it said.
Donald Trump announced he was cutting refugee admission a new record-low just hours after his latest racist attack on Ilhan Omar.

The move by the White House will see the number of refugees allowed in 2021 to 15,000, which is 3,000 less than the 2020 figure.

The announcement came after Trump decried refugees in a campaign stop in Duluth, Minnesota, in which he falsely claimed his rival Joe Biden wants to flood the country with immigrants.

Biden will turn Minnesota into a refugee camp, and he said that, overwhelming public resources, overcrowding schools and inundating hospitals, said the president.

You know that. Its already there. Its a disgrace what theyve done to your state.

Mr Biden says he wants to increase the limit to 125,000 refugees a year.

Mr Trump also vilified Minnesota representative Ms Omar, who came to the US in 1995 at the age of 12 from Somalia and who has been a citizen for 20 years.

The president questioned the standing of Miss Omar, who has been a vocal critic of his, as an American as he falsely accused her campaign of ballot harvesting.

Harvesting is terrible, but its the least of things that she has done, Mr. Trump said.

Then she tells us how to run our country, can you believe it? How the hell did Minnesota elect her? What the hell is wrong with you people, right? What the hell happened?

Minnesota has not been won by a Republican since 1972 and polls show Mr Biden has a strong lead over Mr Trump in the state.

Hillary Clinton won the state by less than 2 per cent in 2016.
As Chimere Smith clicked on the link to join the covid-19 Slack support group, she could feel her body shaking. Not because of an internal buzzing sensation reported by some people struggling with the illness - though she is certainly familiar with that. Smith, a 38-year-old Baltimore middle school teacher, fell ill in March with symptoms progressing rapidly from a sore throat to crushing fatigue to heart palpitations. Still dealing with symptoms several weeks in, she was confused and afraid but alive - though that, it seemed, could change at any moment.

For Smith, joining the Slack group meant accepting that as her struggle continued with no end in sight, she could not go on alone. "As strong and independent as I think I am, I had to admit that I needed other people to help me," says Smith, who still has symptoms to this day.

The pandemic has spared no one from loneliness. The sick survive or die away from their loved ones. The healthy converse through computer screens, smile under face masks from six feet away. But for "long-haulers" who have suffered covid-19-related symptoms for 30-plus days, the isolation runs layers deep. They face doctors who don't believe them; media that often ignore them; friends and family who don't understand why they aren't better; and a virus that, with each passing month, pushes them deeper into the unknown. Being a long-hauler means being "displaced," says Melanie Montano, 32, a New Jersey-based administrator for the Slack group. "We're not dead but we're not living."

With nowhere else to turn, long-haulers have been finding one another online. They write collaborative histories in Facebook posts and develop their own lexicon in Slack channels. They organize academic studies of themselves and crowd-source advice on how to deal with skeptical doctors and why to avoid underwire bras. They might be physically distanced, but they could not be more united in body - in brain fogs and blood clots and midday naps. Across oceans and time zones, they have become living affirmations for each other that the many health problems they experience are not just in their heads. And once strangers, many have become friends.

By the time Kimmy Campbell stumbled upon a long-hauler support group on Facebook 2 months into symptoms, she had seen 10 specialists and had zero answers. Until then, the 39-year-old family therapist and mother of four in Pembroke Pines, Fla., was unsure whether she had the virus, but the group was a revelation. Scrolling through the stories of unending headaches and shortness of breath, she sat at her dining room table with her husband and cried for two hours. "It didn't matter whose story I read. There was a piece of me in every single one," she says.

Her posts to the group, which is now called Long Haul COVID Fighters Round 1 (80+ days), have slowly become more personal. "I can't tell you how many times I talked myself out of going," she said on June 5 of finally deciding to visit to the emergency room for chest pressure and limb pain. Later in the month, she wrote, "I CANNOT begin to thank you all for praying for me, sending good vibes, thinking of me. Whatever you did with healing intention I thank you. You guys are part of my village and I'm truly grateful."

Campbell noticed Smith in the group and admired her increasingly "relentless" posts. "I remember thinking, what an intelligent woman, what a brave woman," she says. Now, they exchange voice notes regularly - about their symptoms, their families, and their prayers. "I don't know if I would be where I am without her and a couple of other people in these groups," Smith says.

Photo for The Washington Post by Craig Hudson

For many long-haulers, the testing deficits that defined the early days of the pandemic continue to haunt them. While some tested positive for the virus or its antibodies, others (such as Smith) tested negative or did not have access to testing. The latter group is often barred from covid-19 recovery programs and studies, and some doctors write their covid-19-like symptoms off to anxiety. (The FDA has advised that because test results are not always accurate, symptoms should be a factor in a diagnosis.) Recently, the media has been giving the long-hauler phenomenon increased attention, and some doctors are coming around, treating patients as "presumed covid-19."

To the long-haulers connecting online, what matters is that they're suffering, physically and psychologically. Claire Hastie describes the 23,000-person Facebook group Long Covid Support Group, which she started in May, as a "virtual joining of hands." In the group's early days, Hastie recalls, long before it was getting over 200 posts per day and 1,000-plus new members a week, a "highflying" chief-executive-type man posted about how he could not bring himself to tell his family about his persistent symptoms and that the group was the only support he had. "It's humbling that we've been able to provide this safe space for this 'alpha male,' for want of a better phrase, to share such vulnerable information that he is not sharing with anyone else," says Hastie, who's 48 and based in the United Kingdom.

Kevin Wright, a professor who studies health communications at George Mason University, likens online support group relationships to the "stranger on a plane phenomenon." People will share their life story while sitting next to you because they know they probably will never see you again and the information won't get back to their inner circle. Among long-haulers, many of whom are stuck at home and would never cross paths in real life anyway, that plane-ride closeness lasts indefinitely.

Plus, returning to pre-covid-19 relationships can prove difficult. "A lot of my friends are always very concerned about catching covid-19," said Adina Gerver, a 41-year-old moderator for Hastie's Long Covid group who lives alone in New York City. "But my main worry is that I'll be tired forever and not be able to work my normal three jobs."

Fiona Lowenstein, founder of the Body Politic Covid-19 Support Group Slack channel that Smith joined, which has 8,000 active members, says she talks to her covid-19 friends more than her Before Time friends. The 26-year-old in New York City wrote an essay for Teen Vogue about covid-19 patients losing friends, and notes that the sick often cannot participate in typical pandemic social activities like Zoom happy hours or outdoor runs.

Alexandria, Va.-based long-hauler Cynthia Adinig, 35, finds it difficult to even explain her symptoms to people who haven't experienced them. How do you tell friends you're too hoarse for a phone call? Or in too much of a brain fog to type coherent messages? With fellow long-haulers, "You can just say, 'Hey, today I can't spell,' And it's a nonissue. It doesn't come with a whole set of questions," she says.

The intimacy and goodwill fostered in these groups can be hard to preserve as they grow into a virtual town. An early Facebook group, Survivor Corps, has ballooned to over 100,000 members. Another, Long Haul Covid Fighters, split into two "rounds" according to how long members have been symptomatic. The Slack group changed platforms twice, operating on WhatsApp for just 12 hours before surpassing the 256-person cap. Its volunteer administration team grown nearly sevenfold. Long Haul Covid Fighters Round 2 instituted "self-care Sunday," when new posts aren't allowed. On Long Covid, moderators receive alerts if a keyword such as "masks," which could spark controversy, appears in a post.

For some, the regulations go too far. Many long-haul Facebook groups limit political speech. But the Slack group grew out of a queer feminist wellness collective, and Smith, who is Black, has found it more welcoming to discussions on covid-19 and race than some Facebook groups. "It is not a group for likes. It is a group that pays attention to the -isms of people who suffer with covid-19," she says.

On Slack, chat rooms are grouped by categories such as duration of illness, body system and specific community, such as LGBTQ+ or "solo riders" facing the virus while living alone.

Smaller Facebook groups have also appeared. When Ryan Brown, 42, joined the 350-person Utah-specific group and shared a dermatologic problem with founder Lisa O'Brien, she pointed to several members who might be able to help off the top of her head. "She seems to know everybody's ailments at one time or another," he says. "It's pretty incredible."

Margot Gage, a 38-year-old epidemiologist in Beaumont, Tex., founded a group specifically for long-haulers who are BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and other people of color). She connected with Adinig over parallel instances of medical racism: Both women were assumed to be having a drug overdose when presenting with shortness of breath. Adinig is drawn to the BIPOC group for its intimacy - members know each other's stories, follow up on posts and reach out if they haven't seen her active for a while.

While organizing her medicines in the morning, Adinig spends hours exchanging messages with Smith, the Baltimore teacher, or her "covid-19 twin" Miranda, who has similar symptoms.

Smith still feels effects. And when asked about her covid-19 friends around the country, Smith's voice breaks. "I pray to God that there is an opportunity for us to meet up somewhere where we can celebrate a victory of recovery," she says. "I know that we'll be friends for life, because this virus is so vicious that it bonds you in the craziest way."
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HALIFAX, Nova Scotia, Oct. 01, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Erdene Resource Development Corporation (TSX:ERD | MSE:ERDN) (Erdene or the Company) announces the conclusion of and the initial results from the first phase of its 18,000 metre Khundii Gold District drill program.



Highlights:

Phase I Drilling complete, totaling over 10,000 metres on the Bayan Khundii License:

 49 holes including 4 extension holes at Bayan Khundii for 8,435 metres

 11 holes at Dark Horse for 1,574 metres

Results from the first twelve expansion holes (2,016 metres) at Bayan Khundii include:

 Midfield North: Expansion drilling on both the western and eastern sides of the proposed economic pit returned high-grade mineralized intersections:

 BKD-302  Eastern flank extension: 3.9 g/t gold over 22.4 metres, including 2 metres of 27.5 g/t gold beginning 127 metres down hole (vertical 115m)

 BKD-304  Western flank extension: 3.9 g/t gold over 12 metres, including 1 metre of 38.9 g/t gold beginning 206 metres down hole (vertical 144m)

 Striker SW: At the southern end of the economic pit, expanded shallow areas of high-grade mineralization beyond the economic pit and outside the current resource:

 BKD-310  4.0 g/t gold over 10 metres, including 1 metre of 24.5 g/t gold beginning 14 metres down hole, and 44 metres of 1.0 g/t gold, including 1 metre of 16.2 g/t starting 64 metres down hole

 BKD-312  20.8 g/t gold over 3 metres, including 1 metre of 51.7 g/t gold beginning 13 metres down hole

Assays are pending for 48 holes totaling 7,945 metres at Midfield Southeast, Striker West, Northeast Bayan Khundii and Dark Horse

 Visible gold reported in 10 holes (see details below)

Quotes from the Company:

We are encouraged by the early results from the first phase of the drill program, including high-grade gold intersections in multiple holes and visible gold in 10 drill holes with pending assays, in areas peripheral to the Bayan Khundii Gold Project economic open-pit, said Peter Akerley, Erdenes President and CEO. These results demonstrate the high probability of resource expansion for the Bayan Khundii Gold Project beyond that outlined in the Feasibility Study delivered in August 2020.

Story continues

The second phase of the 2020 drilling program will include further expansion drilling at Bayan Khundii and Altan Nar, as well as exploratory drilling at the Dark Horse, Altan Arrow and the Ulaan prospects, continued Mr. Akerley. We have a full pipeline of prospects to grow our resource base in advance of initial production at the Bayan Khundii Gold Project, expected in 2022.

Drilling Summary & Plans

Plan view maps accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a307ce2e-d823-4bc7-9dc6-24fde124fe86

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9a8dc9cd-9a15-4932-863c-37f5933a7925

The company has completed the 10,000 metre first phase of an 18,000 metre drill program within the Khundii Gold District which has the following objectives:

Bayan Khundii Expansion: Deliver expansion areas and increased continuity and confidence expanding ore zones beyond the boundaries of economic pit in the Midfield North, Midfield Southeast and Striker SW areas. Further define and upgrade the Striker West resource as a potential area for major pit expansion. Explore for new resources North and Northeast of the BK deposit, and at the Dark Horse, Altan Arrow and Ulaan prospects. Complete initial stages of condemnation drilling over proposed processing plant and mining operation footprints. Continue expansion drilling and exploration within the Altan Nar gold deposit trend.

Indications of Bayan Khundii deposit resource expansion potential have been received with the initial assay results and the visible gold reported in drill core from Midfield North, Midfield Southeast, Striker SW and Striker West, which should prove beneficial to the scale and economics of the Bayan Khundii Gold Project.

Bayan Khundii Gold Deposit: Extensions Beyond Economic Pit

The current drill program has the potential to upgrade current resources to reserves expanding the economic open pit and expanding resources beyond the current boundaries. The economic pit defined in the Bayan Khundii Feasibility Study hosts 409,000 ounces of gold at 3.7 g/t gold however, significant resources exist, inclusive of reserves, totalling 521,000 @ 3.2 g/t gold M&I and 103,000 @ 3.7 g/t gold Inferred. Those resources excluded from the economic pit are in the peripheral areas of the planned open pit where there exists strong potential for a portion of these to be upgraded in continuity, confidence, and grade and in conjunction with a higher gold price, brought into a revised economic pit as the development advances towards first production. Several gold mineralized zones peripheral to the current economic open-pit host exceptionally high-grade (30 to 150 g/t gold intersections over 1 meter) gold-bearing veins and broad intervals of mineralization. In addition, the Bayan Khundii resource is an open-pit constrained resource beyond which drilling has previously intersected significant gold mineralized zones which require further exploration drilling. The following sections describe the areas tested in the current drill program.

North Midfield

North Midfield is the most northerly portion of the Bayan Khundii Deposit. Five holes (BKD-301 to BKD-305) were drilled in the current program in this area to test for extensions of gold mineralization beyond the boundaries of the currently modelled economic pit. These specific drill targets represent zones where continuity of high-grade domains are interpreted to extend beyond the currently modelled pit wall. Four of the five holes intersected anomalous gold mineralization ( 0.2 g/t gold) outside the economic pit.

Two of these holes, BKD-302 and BKD-304, intersected high-grade gold mineralization outside of the economic pit. BKD-302, located on the east side of North Midfield zone, intersected 22.4 metres of 3.9 g/t gold followed by a thick, 39 metre mineralized interval averaging 0.38 g/t gold. Relatively wide drill spacing east and west of BKD-302 provides considerable room for possible expansion of this high-grade zone. BKD-304, located on the west side of North Midfield, intersected 12 metres of 3.9 g/t gold, including 1 metre of 38.5 g/t gold within an interval located proximally below and outside of the economic pit. BKD-302 and BKD-304 successfully demonstrate the potential for continuity of wide, high grade zones of similar tenor to existing reserve grade outside of the current pit wall boundary. Further testing and identification of these zones may positively impact the minable reserves of Bayan Khundii should the economic pit be expanded to encompass these new extension zones.

Hole From(m) To(m) Interval(m)* g/t Gold BKD-301 87.9 170 82.1 0.60 Incl 107 139 32 1.17 Incl 108 109 1 21.15 BKD-302 126.6 149 22.4 3.90 Incl 126.6 140 13.4 6.02 Incl 133 135 2 27.50 And 161 200 39 0.38 Incl 162 177 15 0.62 BKD-303 No significant mineralization BKD-304 119.2 132 12.8 1.30 And 142 196 54 0.56 Incl 144 159 15 1.35 And 206 218 12 3.87 Incl 210 211 1 38.56 BKD-305 148.5 176 27.5 0.23 And 200 203 3 1.81

_________________________________________

* Reported intervals are downhole widths. Drill holes were oriented to intersect SW dipping WNW trending gold veins, normal to their orientation and therefore reported widths are very close to true width. However, geologic parameters near BKD-312 may affect local vein orientations in this hole. Additional study will be required to confirm.





Striker Southwest Extension

Several drill holes have been completed both within and outside the economic pit boundary at the southern perimeter of the economic pit. These holes have returned intervals of intense quartz stockwork, quartz hematite and quartz adularia veining and at least one instance of visible gold. Results to date (up to BKD-311 and the upper portion of BKD-312) confirm a new zone of shallow, high-grade mineralization south of the economic pit boundary, continuing beyond the permitter of existing resources. Initial results from BKD-312 indicate shallow, high grade gold mineralization with 3 metres of 20.8 g/t gold at only a 10 metre vertical depth.

Initial results for the Striker SW area are displayed below, with multiple assays pending. These results have the potential to expand the economic pit boundary to the south and southwest to encompass these new zones of high grade mineralization.

Hole From(m) To(m) Interval(m)* g/t Gold BKD-306 48 53 5 0.32 And 138 161 23 0.50 BKD-307 8 12 4 1.77 And 68 88 20 0.29 BKD-308 56 60 4 0.36 And 66 69 3 0.31 And 83 94 11 0.31 And 100 103 3 0.40 And 153 156 3 0.68 BKD-309 No significant mineralization BKD-310 10.7 30 19.3 2.33 Incl 14 24 10 4.02 Incl 14 15 1 24.52 And 64 108 44 1.01 Incl 66 68 2 16.15 BKD-311 28 37 9 0.66 And 107 124 17 0.34 BKD-312 13 16 3 20.79 Incl 14 15 1 51.70

_________________________________________

 Complete assay results and screen metallic gold values for BKD-312 are pending.





Midfield Southeast (MFSE)

Drilling in Q2 2020 discovered very high grade, near-surface gold zones in Midfield SE, with intersections of 5.5 metres of 125.9 g/t gold, including 1 metre of 581.6 g/t gold in BKD-288, beginning 11.5 metres downhole, and 40 metres to the north, 15 metres of 25.6 g/t gold including 1 metre of 338 g/t gold beginning at 14.9 metres downhole in BKD-274. In total, 16 of 18 holes drilled at Midfield SE in Q2 2020 intersected anomalous gold (0.2 g/t gold) mineralization within 25 metres of surface. This discovery is interpreted as the intersection of the stacked NW trending quartz adularia veins, with a N-S trending conceptual feeder structure. The Midfield SE structure has been traced over a strike length of at least 200 metres with the Q2 drilling testing only the northern 50 metres.

Eight holes have been drilled in MFSE in the current drill program targeting the conceptual feeder structures southeast continuation. Although results are pending, visible gold has been logged in four of the eight holes, in association with quartz adularia veining, hematite breccias and quartz vein material within conglomerate. Other holes from current drilling in the MFSE target area contain intervals of intense quartzhematite and white mica veining, both indicators of gold mineralization in the Bayan Khundii system. These preliminary logging results confirm the MFSE zone as a new area of interest within the Bayan Khundii deposit to be further defined for high-grade gold mineralization potentially related to a feeder structure. As this area is classified as waste or low-grade stockpile material in the current resource, confirmation of mineralization has the potential to have a significant impact on early mine life economics.

Striker West

Striker West is located approximately 210 metres west of the defined Bayan Khundii open pit and contains the largest portion of resources outside the economic pit. Drilling in 2019 confirmed and extended the Striker West target with the best intersection within this deposit area to date with 3 metres of 40 g/t gold at a vertical depth of 136 metres (BKD-265). Results from this hole also broadened the mineralized domain at shallow depth and outside the defined resource boundary with a 16-metre interval of 1.1 g/t gold, including 5 metres of 2.7 g/t gold, beginning only 28 metres from the surface. The Striker West area has received relatively little drilling compared to the main Bayan Khundii deposit area and remains open to the south, where BKD-266 was drilled in Q2 2019, approximately 250 metres west-southwest of the planned open-pit, and outside the currently defined resource boundary. This hole intersected a high-grade, one-metre interval of 51.9 g/t gold at a depth of 264 metres within a broad zone of silica-illite and magnetite altered volcanic tuff, suggesting a down-dip continuation of high-grade gold mineralization from the currently defined Bayan Khundii pit.

Phase 1 drilling in the Striker West area includes 14 holes which aim to provide resource definition within the core of the Striker West zone and resource expansion around the perimeter of the known gold mineralization. Although assay results are pending, multiple logged intervals containing visible gold have been recorded in association with intense and in some cases thick intervals of quartz adularia and quartz hematite veins.

Dark Horse ( Khar Mori)

The Dark Horse prospect, and by extension, the Altan Arrow prospect, 3.5 kilometres north of the Bayan Khundii gold deposit, are included in the drill program. The Dark Horse prospect covers an approximately 1.5 by 3-kilometre area, connected to the northwesterly adjacent Altan Arrow gold prospect. Trenching and rock chip sample results have returned very high gold grades over a large target area at Dark Horse. Previous drilling along the subsidiary structures south of Altan Arrow (within 300 metres of the Dark Horse target area) have provided the highest-grade intersections to date, including 24 g/t gold and 70 g/t gold over 2 metres (AAD-03 and AAD-12) within 75 metres of surface. A series of eleven holes have been completed at Dark Horse with results pending. These reconnaissance holes will provide support for additional drilling in Q4 to establish highest priority targets in this large prospect area.

Altan Nar Gold Polymetallic Deposit

At Altan Nar, approximately 16 km north of the Bayan Khundii gold deposit, a growing gold and polymetallic resource provides a significant opportunity for resource expansion. The current Altan Nar Gold resource includes 318,000 ounces of 2.0 g/t gold Indicated and 186,000 ounces of Inferred at 1.7 g/t gold in addition to significant silver and base metal content. The second phase of the drill program will target this highly prospective license for resource expansion and new discoveries.

COVID-19 Precautions

Throughout the 2020 field season, Erdene has worked to deliver an injury-free, effective field exploration program, rolling out increased preventive measures in response to COVID-19. The Company has kept in place precautionary measures to protect against the spread of COVID-19. In the field, daily protocols are used to ensure basic hygiene, and daily briefing, induction and visitor reception procedures continue to include body temperature checks. Isolation facilities and personal protective equipment for emergency response have been prepared. Since late January, the Government of Mongolia has implemented a series of preventive measures in response to COVID-19, including limitations on public gatherings and international border controls. As of September 30, 2020, Mongolia has reported no cases of local transmission of COVID-19 and zero deaths from the disease. All confirmed and reported cases to date have been related to repatriated citizens.

Khundii Gold District

Erdenes deposits are located in the Edren Terrane, within the Central Asian Orogenic Belt, host to some of the worlds largest gold and copper-gold deposits. The Company has been the leader in exploration in southwest Mongolia over the past decade and is responsible for the discovery of the Khundii Gold District comprised of multiple high-grade gold and gold/base metal prospects, two of which are being considered for development: the 100%-owned Bayan Khundii and Altan Nar projects. Together, these deposits comprise the Khundii Gold Project.

The Bayan Khundii Gold Resource includes 521,000 ounces of 3.16 g/t gold Measured and Indicated (M&I) and 103,000 ounces of Inferred resources at 3.68 g/t gold. Within the M&I resource, a proven and probable open-pit reserve totals 409,000 ounces at 3.7 g/t (see the full press release here), providing significant potential growth of reserves with the development of the remaining M&I and Inferred resources.

In July 2020, Erdene announced the results of an independent Feasibility Study for the Bayan Khundii Gold Project (press release here). The Feasibility Study results include an after-tax Net Present Value at a 5% discount rate and a US$1,400/oz gold price of US$100 million and Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 42%. The Feasibility Study envisions an open-pit mine at Bayan Khundii, producing an average of 63,500 oz gold per year, for seven years, at a head grade of 3.71 g/t gold, utilizing a conventional carbon in pulp processing plant. Production is expected to commence in early 2022 based on the current project schedule.

Erdene Resource Development Corp. is a Canada-based resource company focused on the acquisition, exploration, and development of precious and base metals in underexplored and highly prospective Mongolia. The Company has interests in three mining licenses and two exploration licenses in Southwest Mongolia, where exploration success has led to the discovery and definition of the Khundii Gold District. Erdene Resource Development Corp. is listed on the Toronto and the Mongolian stock exchanges. Further information is available at www.erdene.com. Important information may be disseminated exclusively via the website; investors should consult the site to access this information.

Qualified Person and Sample Protocol

Peter Dalton, P.Geo. (Nova Scotia), Senior Geologist for Erdene, is the Qualified Person as that term is defined in National Instrument 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this news release. All samples have been assayed at SGS Laboratory in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. In addition to internal checks by SGS Laboratory, the Company incorporates a QA/QC sample protocol utilizing prepared standards and blanks. All samples undergo standard fire assay analysis for gold and ICP-OES (Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy) analysis for 33 additional elements. For samples that initially return a grade greater than 5 g/t gold, additional screen-metallic gold analysis is carried out which provides a weighted average gold grade from fire assay analysis of the entire +75 micron fraction and three 30-gram samples of the -75 micron fraction from a 500 gram sample.

Erdenes drill core sampling protocol consisted of collection of samples over 1 or 2 metre intervals (depending on the lithology and style of mineralization) over the entire length of the drill hole, excluding minor post-mineral lithologies and un-mineralized granitoids. Sample intervals were based on meterage, not geological controls or mineralization. All drill core was cut in half with a diamond saw, with half of the core placed in sample bags and the remaining half securely retained in core boxes at Erdenes Bayan Khundii exploration camp. All samples were organized into batches of 30 including a commercially prepared standard, blank and either a field duplicate, consisting of two quarter-core intervals, or a laboratory duplicate. Sample batches were periodically shipped directly to SGS in Ulaanbaatar via Erdenes logistical contractor, Monrud Co. Ltd.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information regarding Erdene contained herein may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements may include estimates, plans, expectations, opinions, forecasts, projections, guidance or other statements that are not statements of fact. Although Erdene believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. Erdene cautions that actual performance will be affected by a number of factors, most of which are beyond its control, and that future events and results may vary substantially from what Erdene currently foresees. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include the ability to obtain required third party approvals, market prices, exploitation and exploration results, continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions. The forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. The information contained herein is stated as of the current date and is subject to change after that date. The Company does not assume the obligation to revise or update these forward-looking statements, except as may be required under applicable securities laws.

NO REGULATORY AUTHORITY HAS APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THE CONTENTS OF THIS RELEASE

Erdene Contact Information

Peter C. Akerley, President and CEO, or

Robert Jenkins, CFO

_________________________________________

 For details of the Mineral Resources see Khundii Gold Project NI 43-101 Technical Report, Tetra Tech December 4, 2019  SEDAR

 M&I: 171,000 ounces of 3.77 g/t gold Measured, and 349,700 ounces of 2.93 g/t gold Indicated






Its just a long process to get the rocks up here, Benson said. Its hard to get enough rocks. Its hard on the trucks.

Hopefully, were on the downhill part of this, pushing rocks up the hill, he said.

This week, the Porter County Board of Commissioners extended its declared state of emergency along the shoreline for another 30 days. That allows municipalities to seek federal assistance with needed repairs.

"We're just leaving the window open for them," board President Jeff Good, R-Center, said. "That's really the only thing as a county we can do for them."

In Beverly Shores, the erosion exposed the sewer line underneath Lake Front Drive. Drivers often forget how much infrastructure lies underneath the road surface  sewer lines, natural gas lines and more.

We took out a $5 million bond that the town is paying for, and weve spent about half of it, Benson said. This is an emergency. Thats really what we felt, that this was the line in the sand that we had to draw."

Its a fight that has been brought by record high lake levels, but its not unprecedented.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued notices to the Uttar Pradesh government and the state's police chief in connection with the gang rape of a 19-year-old Dalit women in Hathras district, officials said on Wednesday.

IMAGE: Social activists protest over the death of a 19-year-old Dalit woman who was brutally gang-raped two weeks ago in Hathras (UP), at Kargil Park in Kanpur, on Wednesday. Photograph: PTI Photo

The woman, who was battling for her life after the assault, died at Safdarjung Hospital on Tuesday.

The NHRC has taken suo motu cognisance in connection with the 'gang rape and brutality of a 19-year-old women belonging to the Scheduled Caste in Hathras district', the rights panel said in a statement.

According to reports, she had gone missing on September 14 and was found in a badly injured condition on September 22, and was subjected to gang rape and brutality in Hathras over two weeks ago, it said.

The Commission has sent notices to the chief secretary of the state government and the Director General of Police of Uttar Pradesh, the officials said.

On September 14, the young woman had gone to the fields with her mother and went missing soon after.

She was found later, beaten and tortured, her tongue cut as she bit it when the accused attempted to strangle her.

She was first admitted to Aligarh Muslim University's Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and Hospital and then shifted to Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi on Monday.

The commission said the responses from the state authorities are expected within four weeks.

The NHRC observed that the young woman belonging to the Scheduled Caste community was subjected to sexual harassment and brutality.

'It is apparent that the police was not able to take timely action to trace and save the victim due to which she could not be saved from being subjected to grave cruelty,' it said.

'The way the perpetrators have acted shows that they had no fear of law in their mind. The family has suffered an irrevocable loss. A young and a precious human life has been lost,' the rights panel added.

Not only this, there are also allegations made by the family that the "police forcibly took away the body of the deceased for cremation" as have been reported in the media, the statement said.

'Then incident has raised many questions about the law and order situation in the state. Many such incidents have occurred in the state of Uttar Pradesh where the members of the Scheduled Community have been subjected to discrimination and harassment by the people belonging to upper castes,' it said.

There have been a number of instances of allegations of inaction against the police authorities and the administration. This is a serious issue of violation of human rights, the NHRC added.

The commission said it has further directed the state government 'to provide adequate protection to the family of the deceased' keeping in view the gravity of the matter and the aspect of the witness protection as there is apparent rift between the two communities and there may be danger to the family of the deceased.

The DGP is expected to 'look personally into the matter to ensure a speedy trial so that the culprits could be punished by the competent court without any further delay', the statement said.

In the current scenario, it is necessary that family of the deceased as well as other members of the SC community residing in the village are provided proper protection by the police. Both the authorities are expected to submit their report, within the stipulated time, it added.
Berkeley voters will get to decide in November whether the city should form a new police review commission, the mayor and City Council members should get raises, and nearly $11 million in new taxes and fees should be adopted.

The tax measures come amid an economic meltdown due to the coronavirus while the plan for a new police review board comes amid a national reckoning on police brutality and racism.

Berkeley has a population of more than 120,000 people. The city is largely affluent, but many have suffered financial losses due to the pandemic. In May, the city surveyed 500 people and found nearly half to have been seriously affected by the pandemic  financially and emotionally. Most of the survey respondents reported challenges in mental health and many reported financial difficulties as a result of the public health crisis, with some saying that they are struggling to pay for food, health care and other essentials.

Below is a breakdown of some ballot measures:

Measure II: Police review commission (requires majority vote)

A 1973 Berkeley ballot measure created one of the first police review commissions in the nation, with oversight of the Berkeley Police Departments policies and procedures. That nine-member commission appointed by the mayor and council also investigates police complaints. This Novembers ballot measure would replace the commission with a police board, a different structure that allows for more accountability, according to supporters.

The biggest difference between the existing commission and the new board is the establishment of a new position: director of police accountability. That person would be a hired professional who is trained in policing policy.

Sometimes when youre first, you dont benefit from improvements that the experience of many jurisdictions provides, said Vice Mayor Sophie Hahn. We really felt that rather than just make some changes to what we already had, we should ... bring Berkeley up to true best practices and to do that, we needed to have a different structure.

The purpose of the new board is to build community trust through independent, objective civilian oversight of the Police Department, according to the staff report.

The measure changes the standard of proof used in determining whether a sworn employee of the department can be charged with misconduct  from clear and convincing to preponderance of evidence, a less-stringent standard, according to the staff report.

The new board will also recommend whether an officer should be disciplined and the level of discipline. The board has access to records and can issue subpoenas.

The nine-member board appointed by the mayor and each member of the City Council and the new director will report to the mayor and City Council except on administrative issues.

Yalonda M. James / The Chronicle

The current police commission costs the city $778,000 a year. The new board and director will add $500,000 a year to that cost.

Hahn said the measure was created in partnership with the Police Department and Berkeley Police Officers Association. No arguments of opposition have been submitted to the city.

Measure JJ: Mayor and City Council salaries (requires majority vote)

Currently, Berkeley Mayor Jesse Arreguin makes $61,304 per year and council members make $38,695 a year. Their salaries were set in 1998 and are based on part-time work, but the workload has since grown. Arreguins salary is that of a very low-income household of three people and the council members salary represents the salary of an extremely low-income household, according to the city staff report.

The mayor doesnt have another job, but some council members do hold a second job or work as consultants on the side.

If passed, the ballot measure would increase Arreguins yearly pay to $107,300 for 2020, and councils salary to $67,599  both considered moderate income as established by the California Department of Housing and Community Development.

Its important because we have a hard time attracting people that are really reflective of our community to be on the council, said Councilwoman Kate Harrison.

Plus, she said, the workload has increased dramatically as council members now have to serve on two committees, write legislation and are often holding weekly council meetings versus biweekly.

The salary amount would adjust each year based on the area median income.

This amendment would recognize the offices are more than part-time and set the salary of the Mayor at 100% of area median income and maintain the ratio between the compensation for Council members and that of the Mayor at 63%, the staff report said.

Several Berkeley residents filed an opposition argument saying that now is not the time for a raise due to the economic crisis spurred by the pandemic.

Measure GG: Ride share surcharge (requires majority vote)

People hailing rides from services, including Uber and Lyft, would pay a 50 cent-per-trip surcharge for private rides and 25 cents-per-ride for pooled trips. The tax would generate an estimated $910,000 annually to be used for general municipal services, according to the staff report.

Transportation services contribute to the wear and tear of the public infrastructure and cause traffic congestion and air pollution within Berkeley, the staff report states. Yet these companies do not pay taxes to offset their impacts on the City, the report states.

The tax would not apply to taxis.

This is an attempt to even the playing field and make sure that ride shares are also contributing to our tax base, Hahn said.

Several members of the countys taxpayers association and Berkeley residents filed an opposition letter saying that ride-hailing companies provide an essential service to residents coming from the Berkeley hills and other less walkable areas. Furthermore, the drivers do contribute to the citys taxes by purchasing gas.

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.

Measure FF: Property tax to fund firefighters, wildfire prevention and emergency medical response (requires two-thirds vote)

If passed, the measure would impose a parcel tax of $0.1047 per square foot, which would equal $199 per year for a 1,900-square-foot home. The tax would generate $8.5 million annually.

The revenue would go toward boosting funding for firefighting efforts, emergency medical response, and wildfire prevention and preparedness.

Since 1995, calls for service to the citys Fire Department have increased by 130%, according to a city staff report. The tax would help fund training and more staffing.

Last year, the county stopped paying for transporting patients to hospitals in Berkeley who are deemed a danger to themselves or others. This tax measure would help fund those transfers, the report states.

Also, as the city prepares for the closure of the Alta Bates emergency room by 2030, emergency transfers will take on average 24 minutes longer round-trip when transporting patients to Summit Campus Emergency Department in Oakland or Kaiser in Oakland.

The city also plans to use the funds to revamp the 911 dispatch system.

Right now, pretty much everything is code red and every time we dispatch our firefighters, even if someone just stubs their toe, its with all the sirens blaring and ... fire engines and staff going out, Hahn said. With this better modernized 911 system, we can do more triage and be more nuanced with the resources we deploy.

The tax revenue would also allow the Fire Department to come up with a vegetation management plan in the case of a fire in the citys flatland. The department could also use funds to create safe passages and enhance the emergency alert system.

The countys taxpayers association opposes this measure, arguing taxpayers are already struggling due to economic uncertainty.

Measure HH: Utility tax (requires majority vote)

The measure would create a climate action equity fund by increasing the tax on gas and electricity from 7.5% to 10% for all residents except those who are low-income.

Thats because low-income residents often live in environments that are much more polluted, Harrison said.

The tax could generate close to $2.5 million a year, which would be used to help lower-income families, Harrison said. That could mean a variety of programs, including discounted bus passes for seniors or insulated windows for tenants.

Sarah Ravani is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: sravani@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @SarRavani
Every day there's news of a new gangrape case where a young woman with her entire life ahead was brutalized by some men who felt entitled to her. Another day and another life lost with no hope for reform anywhere. Another day and a new family grieving over their daughter's life cut short. When will this end? When will women stop getting punished for just existing?

It was just yesterday that the horrific gangrape in Hathras shook the country and made everyone rally together to fight for justice for the 19-year-old woman, whose family didn't even get to give a proper send off to her as she was burned by the police in the middle of the night. Now, another gangrape in Uttar Pradesh is showing us how this is no country for women, once again.

 Reuters

About 500 km from Hathras, a 22-year-old Dalit woman died after being allegedly raped and assaulted on Tuesday evening, who died soon after the incident occurred.



According to the victim's mother, the woman from Balrampur had left the house in the morning to go and get admission to a college. When she failed to return back home on time, the worried family started their search.

 Reuters

Reportedly, she reached back at around 7 in the evening, drugged up as assailants had allegedly put her on an e-rickshaw. Her mother said,

"The men had injected her with some substance due to which she lost consciousness. Then they raped her... They broke her legs, they broke her back. A rickshaw-wallah brought her home. They were thrown in front of our house. My child could barely stand or speak."

#UttarPradesh| 22-year-old Dalit woman gang raped in UP's #Balrampur after being given "lethal injection." The young woman died on the way to the hospital. Two accused in the case have been arrested.

Another horrible case of gang rape in UP after #Hathras incident. pic.twitter.com/wSoxiqdHHs  Mojo Story (@themojo_in) September 30, 2020

She added,

"Somehow, crying, my daughter said, 'Save me, I do not want to die'."

After she complained about severe pain in her stomach, the doctor at the local hospital advised the family to take her to Lucknow but unfortunately, she passed away on the way.

Refuting the family's claim, the Balrampur police tweeted, "In the said case, prompt action has been taken by the police with both the accused arrested. Details that hands and legs were broke is not true The post-mortem report does not mention this."

 Reuters

Officer Dev Ranjan Verma said,



"Her hands had a glucose syringe sticking out. She appeared to be in a very bad condition. The family has named two persons. They said they took her to a doctor to get her treated and raped her. When her condition got worse, they sent her home instead of sending her to the hospital. The police have taken swift action and arrested the two named. We will ensure swift action."

Apparently, the local leaders have given the family 6.18 lakh as 'compensation'.

People are questioning the UP government and CM Yogi Adityanath after two unspeakable acts have occurred in a span of few days in the state.

UP has a history of people fighting for Mandir & masjid, its high time they realise that schools and colleges are way more important.



UP has failed as a society. #BalrampurHorror pic.twitter.com/WwIHwLpTXD  Inder Kumar (@RunOnSarcasm) October 1, 2020

There needs to be some sort of solution, this cannot be normalized.

Totally numbed by the horrific happenings in UP & truly no words to explain this heinous act. The screams seems to be falling on deaf ears. #JusticeForManishaValmiki #BalrampurHorror  Harish Kalyan (@iamharishkalyan) October 1, 2020

It's heartbreaking.

Within 24 to 48 hours, the second rape incident is going to be heartbreaking, surely Uttar Pradesh has now become a stronghold of criminal incidents which show the failures of the Yogi government!



I Demand to immediate impose president rule in Uttar Pradesh #BalrampurHorror pic.twitter.com/PVJaL4FxIC  Deepak Khatri (@Deepakkhatri812) October 1, 2020

This is happening for real in our country, wake up.

Pehle #HathrasHorror phir #BalrampurHorror



We the Indians to Modi, Yogi and 56 others pic.twitter.com/uGmCkhm6m0  Aishwary (@AishwaryVerma9) October 1, 2020

Hm.

Hathras fire still burning, another Dalit woman drugged, gangraped and killed in UP's #Balrampur.

BJP's new Slogan now:

Apradhi Bachao, Beti Jalao#YogiResignNOW#BalrampurHorror pic.twitter.com/SzVtquzIAs    (@shahidsheik03) October 1, 2020

They really do.

It continues to spread grotesquely with the #BalrampurHorror. Words do fall short at this point. https://t.co/QrYMZNs8Da  Dr. Arvinder Singh Soin (@ArvinderSoin) October 1, 2020

Terrifying.

After Hathras, another gangrape & murder in UP. This one is even more



Another Dalit girl gangraped & murdered. This time in UP's #Balrampur



After rape, her legs & waist were crushed. She was then given a poison filled injection.#BalrampurHorror pic.twitter.com/7fXrOJ3rWO     (@jamilhussan_a) October 1, 2020

What is even happening?

In a country whr we worship girls.Why r there increasing cases of rapes & assault,Simple bcz we have a failed system,I mean what's the whole point of writing the biggest constitution in the world whn it can't protect our Girls #____#BalrampurHorror pic.twitter.com/D0bl4kAER7     (10k) (@Krishna63355428) October 1, 2020

This is not done.

Law & Order is being encountered on daily basis due to BJP Zero Protection & Zero Prevention Women (Un)Safety Policy



Accountability is an alien concept to BJP-How many more daughters have to give up with their life to wake up heartless&shameless UP Govt? #BalrampurHorror  Jaiveer Shergill (@JaiveerShergill) October 1, 2020

Wow.
On Guato indigenous land, in Brazil's western state of Matto Grosso do Sul, drought-worsened fires this year have burned through 90% of the tribe's 11,000 hectares of territory, incinerating the crops and native plants they depend on.

"It burned everything overnight. We are without food and water, which became very dirty because of the fires," Alessandra Guato, the indigenous group's leader, told the Thomson Reuters Foundation by telephone.

"Without training and equipment, we had no way of saving anything. The fire came very close to the houses," she said, noting that overstretched fire brigades stayed only one day, and left before the worst blaze hit.

Read: Fire in Brazilian wetland threatens jaguar reserve

Fires on indigenous land are surging in Brazil, according to an annual report published Wednesday by the Indigenist Missionary Council (CIMI), a Catholic Church-linked organization that has worked with Brazil's indigenous groups for decades.

The report, which includes data on fires from the National Institute for Space Research (INPE), shows the damage extends well beyond the Amazon.

In 2019, a drought year and the first of the government of right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro, indigenous territories inside Brazil's vast Pantanal wetlands recorded seven times more fires than in 2018, CIMI noted.

This year, fire has consumed 22% of the Pantanal system and affected every piece of indigenous land in the region, according to a LASA, the Laboratory for Environmental Satellite Applications at the University of Rio de Janeiro.

In 2019, 17,000 fires were recorded in indigenous territories, representing an 87% increase from 2018. In total, 345 pieces of indigenous land were affected, the CIMI report said.

Nearly 40% of fires were on indigenous land in the Amazon, where more than 6,000 fires burned, a 67% increase from 2018, CIMI said.

But the Brazilian Cerrado savanna saw 9,500 fires in 2019, almost twice the number the year before, and the Pantanal was even more heavily affected.

Many of the fires, especially in forest areas, are set as part of a process of illegal land clearing to create more farmland, the CIMI report said.

Invaders often first cut and sell trees, then burn what remains to clear the land for pasture or farming, it said.

Antonio Eduardo Oliveira, executive secretary of CIMI, said in a telephone interview that Brazil's government had allowed fires to "multiply" as it reduced inspections by environmental agencies such as Ibama, Brazil's Institute of the Environment and Renewable Natural Resources.

Ibama, the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Defense did not respond to requests for comment on what they are doing to combat fires in indigenous lands.

Right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro has said he favors development of the Amazon and earlier this year unveiled a controversial bill to allow commercial mining, hydropower plants and oil and gas development on indigenous land.

Bolsonaro last month also denied the existence of fires in the Amazon rainforest, calling reports a "lie," despite data produced by his own government showing thousands of fires surging across the region.

In the Pantanal, the Bolsonaro government's messages on the need for development have "opened the gate" to more land-clearing fires, said Oliveira of CIMI.

On its official websitesite, the Ministry of Defense said military personnel are working to combat fires in the Pantanal in partnership with local agencies, including by using aircraft to pour water on the fires.

In 2019, Mato Grosso do Sul, a state that contains much of the Pantanal, recorded a 450% increase in fire spots in indigenous lands compared to the previous year.

"It is a terrible situation. The country loses a lot with this, Oliveira said. Now, "we need to try to recover something that took millennia to establish itself".

On burned Guato land in the Pantanal, indigenous residents are now looking for donations of food and water, and trying to collect rice and bean seeds to restart farming, Alessandra Guato said.

Medicinal plants the community relies on also were destroyed in the fire, she said.

"We are trying to rebuild what is left," she said. "It is a terrible situation."
Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill pictured meeting with The Prince of Wales at Hillsborough Castle this afternoon. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye.

Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill discussed Brexit, the Good Friday Agreement, the upcoming centenary of the creation of Northern Ireland and Bloody Sunday with Prince Charles.

The Sinn Fein deputy leader met with Prince Charles and his wife Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, at Hillsborough Castle during a Royal visit to Northern Ireland on Wednesday, September 30.

Following the meeting Ms O'Neill said they discussed a wide range of topics.

"We discussed Brexit and we made it clear to him that there is no such thing as a good Brexit for the north, that the British government's breaking of international law threatens the Good Friday Agreement and that what has been agreed with the EU must be implemented," she said.

"We also discussed the upcoming centenary of partition and explained to him that for Irish republicans, nationalists and democrats there is nothing to celebrate about the partition of our country.

"We are looking to a new future beyond partition through the creation of a new Ireland built on equality, reconciliation and respect.

"We also discussed the need for the British government to deal with the legacy of the past and raised our disappointment at the decision not to pursue additional prosecutions of the British soldiers involved in the Bloody Sunday massacre."

Earlier this week the Public Prosecution Service announced that no further soldiers will be prosecuted over the killing of 13 civilians in Londonderry in 1972. Only one veteran, known as Soldier F, will face charges.

Expand Close First Minister Arlene Foster and Lord Dodds pictured meeting with The Prince of Wales at Hillsborough Castle. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. / Facebook

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Whatsapp First Minister Arlene Foster and Lord Dodds pictured meeting with The Prince of Wales at Hillsborough Castle. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye.

The Prince of Wales also met First Minister Arlene Foster, Secretary of State Brandon Lewis and Sinn Fein junior minister Declan Kearney during the trip to Northern Ireland.

Mrs Foster said on Twitter she was "delighted to welcome the Prince of Wales to Northern Ireland."

Earlier, Charles and Camilla met with young nurses in Belfast to thank them for their work during the coronavirus pandemic.

The royal couple also visited the Ulster Museum.
In this Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2020 file photo, Kyle Rittenhouse carries a weapon as he walks along Sheridan Road in Kenosha, Wis., during a night of unrest following the weekend police shooting of Jacob Blake.

Federal law enforcement officials were directed to make public comments sympathetic to Kyle Rittenhouse, the teenager charged with fatally shooting two protesters in Kenosha, Wisconsin, according to internal Department of Homeland Security talking points obtained by NBC News.

In preparing Homeland Security officials for questions about Rittenhouse from the media, the document suggests that they note that he "took his rifle to the scene of the rioting to help defend small business owners."

Another set of talking points distributed to Homeland Security officials said the media were incorrectly labeling the group Patriot Prayer as racists after clashes erupted between the group and protesters in Portland, Oregon.

It is unclear whether any of the talking points originated at the White House or within Homeland Security's own press office.

More from NBC News

Rittenhouse, 17, supported Trump and police on his social media pages before he traveled from his home in Antioch, Illinois, to Kenosha on Aug. 25 with an AR-15-style rifle, authorities said. Rittenhouse was arrested on first-degree murder charges and is fighting extradition to Wisconsin. His attorneys argue that he was acting in self-defense.

Three former Homeland Security officials, two of whom worked for Republican administrations, said it was unusual for law enforcement officials to be instructed to weigh in on a case involving a particular group or individual before investigations had concluded.

"It is as unprecedented as it is wrong," said Peter Boogaard, who was a spokesperson for Homeland Security during the Obama administration.

The Rittenhouse talking points also say, "Kyle was seen being chased and attacked by rioters before allegedly shooting three of them, killing two."

"Subsequent video has emerged reportedly showing that there were 'multiple gunmen' involved, which would lend more credence to the self-defense claims."

The document instructs officials, if they are asked about Rittenhouse, to say they are not going to comment on an ongoing investigation and to say that "what I will say is that Rittenhouse, just like everyone else in America, is innocent until proven guilty and deserves a fair trial based on all the facts, not just the ones that support a certain narrative. This is why we try the accused in the court of law, not the star chamber of public opinion."

Officials were instructed to bring conversations back to the need to preserve law and order: "This is also why we need to stop the violence in our cities. Chaotic and violent situations lead to chaotic, violent and tragic outcomes. Everyone needs law and order."

Asked for comment, a spokesperson said Homeland Security "does not comment on alleged leaked documents."

Trump has expressed sympathy for Rittenhouse, saying it appeared that he was "trying to get away from them," referring to the protesters he is accused of having fatally shot.

Despite the talking points, Homeland Security officials have not gone as far to support Rittenhouse. Ken Cuccinelli, the official performing the duties of deputy Homeland Security secretary, said on Twitter after the shooting that the Rittenhouse case shows "the complexities involved in an investigation and why it can take some time to reach conclusions."

By contrast, Trump and other officials in his administration have been quick to blame left-wing extremists. Acting Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Mark Morgan has repeated Trump's claim that organized black-clad members of "antifa" were being flown to protests across the country to incite violence.

In Tuesday night's debate, Trump refused to condemn white supremacy and instead blamed left-wing groups.

"The Proud Boys," said Trump, referring to a right-wing group that has rallied in his support and against anti-racism protesters. "Stand back and stand by."

"But I'll tell you what, I'll tell you what, somebody's got to do something about antifa and the left, because this is not a right-wing problem," he said.
The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has cautioned the public against the buying or selling of Ghana Cedi notes and coins currently in circulation as legal tender on online platforms.

The Bank says it is the only institution with the right to issue and redeem Ghana Cedi notes and coins in Ghana, according to Article 183 (1) of the 1992 Constitution, and section 35 of the Bank of Ghana Act, 2002 (Act 612) as amended.

The Bank describes as illegal, the buying or selling of the Ghana Cedi notes or coins by any person or institution, regardless of the purpose or intent for such trading.

It says any person who buys or sells or offers or attempts to buy or sell any local currency at or for a lower rate than its face value or for an amount exceeding the face value, commits an offence and would be liable upon summary conviction to a term of imprisonment not exceeding ten (10) years, or to a fine not exceeding two thousand (2000) penalty units or both, in accordance with the Currency Act, 1964 (Act 242) as amended.

The Central Bank however says persons who engage in money exchange for the purpose of making some denominations available to others who need them are not affected by the new notice.

---citinewsroom
A teenager placed in secure accommodation after going into council care must have his phone and the opportunity to play online games, a High Court judge has ruled.

Mr Justice Holman said council staff should also ensure that the 16-year-old boy could charge the mobile - and make sure that he had access to wifi, so that he could use his games console.

The judge said removing a phone from a young person was a "very severe" thing.

Social services staff had raised a concern about the boy, who lives in south-east England, having a phone and said there was a risk that he could leave the specialist unit where he is being held.

The teen who is placed in a secure unit must have his mobile phone a High Court judge ruled

But barrister Thomas Jones, who represented the boy, said denying him access to a phone and games console was disproportionate.

Mr Justice Holman agreed and said the boy should be able to call his parents and friends, and play online games, if he wanted to.

He made rulings while analysing the boy's case at a hearing in the Family Division of the High Court in London.

The judge said the boy, who is in the care of Croydon Council, could not be identified in media reports of the case.

He was told that the youngster had been placed at a unit in northern England recently after going missing and being picked up by police.

The 16 -year- old boy is in the care of Croydon Council after run-ins with police

The judge heard that the boy had been involved with police a number of times and was told there was evidence linking him to drug distribution.

Mr Justice Holman gave his approval to the boy remaining in secure accommodation but said the case would be reviewed in the near future.

The judge said he was concerned about the boy being hundreds of miles away from his home area.

In recent years, a series of judges have raised concern about children having to live in units many miles from their homes because of a shortage of secure units in England and Wales.
Everybody who survives 2020 will look back on it as a year that stood outside the normal flow of our lives. Tech vendors have had to adapt to the chaotic storm of events that has turned global society upside down.

In addition to the FAANG vendors (Facebook, Amazon, Apple, Netflix, Google), Microsoft will remain one of the dominant figures in the eventual post-pandemic phase of our lives. This week at its now virtual-only annual Ignite conference, the Redmond, Washington-based cloud powerhouse cemented its position as an innovation leader.

We could easily focus on Microsofts numerous tweaks to its Azure cloud portfolio and Office productivity tools, but these are less interesting than the new and enhanced solutions that are positioning the company for life after COVID-19.

In this coming social order, the most pivotal technologies will be those that enable greater social distancing, more productive remote collaboration, more fluidly immersive reality, and comprehensive biosensing.

Heres my dissection of the chief Ignite announcements that address each of these trends.

Social distancing

Social distancing increasingly depends on tools for keeping people out of range of those who might spread infection. Contactless technologies are fast becoming most peoples interface for everything from payment to self-service interactions with all enterprise apps and devices.

Recognizing how central this is to the future, Microsoft this week announced contactless support in its Teams solution. Later this year, Microsoft Teams Rooms devicessuch as the new Surface Hub 2Swill support new contactless meetings capabilities within physical conference rooms. Contactless support will be built into the Rooms remote app and will be available for Teams through Microsoft Cortana voice assistance.

In addition, Microsoft announced Teams Panels, a new category of mountable devices that use information from other wirelessly connected Teams devices, such as people-counting cameras. The Panels devices can show room capacity information, notify meeting participants of room scheduling and occupancy, and assist with wayfinding around physical offices. They will also be able to provide concrete safety guidance from the meeting facility administrator.

Better support for people-counting cameras was also in Microsofts announcements this week. It rolled out a new spatial analysis feature of the computer vision service within its Azure Cognitive Service portfolio. For social distancing purposes, this feature combines images from multiple cameras and employs AI algorithms to count people in a space, measure how long theyve been there, determine the distance between them, and meter their queue wait times. For retail, security, and other apps, it can also meter foot traffic in a space and determine when people are trespassing in forbidden zones.

Remote collaboration

Working from home has become essential to keep our economy, society, and even political system from screeching to a halt. Its no secret that usage of Microsoft Teams and other remote collaboration solutions has skyrocketed during this crisis, along with distance learning, remote medicine, and other technologies that replace in-person meetings of all sorts.

Recognizing that it has a pivotal platform for this new era, Microsoft this week announced many enhancements to Teams that bridge the productivity gap between remote workers and those who may choose to operate out of traditional multiperson offices, now or in the future. These new features, some of which will be available later this year, include:

Support for as many as 1,000 participants per meeting with the full meeting experience and scale to support 20,000 participants in a view-only mode with live captions.

Automate attendee registration through e-mail and generate a postmeeting reporting dashboard to analyze attendee engagement.

Automatically generate a postmeeting recap with the recording, transcript, chat, and shared files, then store them in the meetings Outlook calendar event entry and in Microsoft 365.

Split participants into smaller groups, thereby facilitating brainstorming sessions and workgroup discussions. Also allow presenters to switch between breakout rooms, make announcements to all rooms, and close them to return everyone to the main meeting.

Transpose a presenters video feed onto the foreground of the slide theyre showing.

Place all participants in a shared background no matter where they are, while defining default backgrounds (such as auditoriums, conference rooms, or coffee shops) for all meeting attendees.

Automatically scale and center meeting participants videos in their virtual seats, regardless of how close or far they are from their camera.

Provide a streamlined Calling view that shows contacts, voicemail, and calling history at once, while enabling single-click initiation and return of calls.

Immersive reality

Remote work tends to lack the hands-on, interactive support that weve come to expect from on-site technical and administrative support personnel. As enterprises retool their internal processes to support a post-pandemic workforce, theyre exploring a growing range of immersive reality hardware, software, and services to ensure seamless support across distributed personnel.

Recognizing that remote users need immersive reality to achieve full productivity in an increasingly virtual world, Microsoft made three key announcements at Ignite:

Expansion of global availability of HoloLens 2, its MR (mixed-reality) headsets: These blend augmented realitys dynamically superimposed captioning with virtual realitys simulated environments.

Private preview of a new MR service called Azure Object Anchors: This enables HoloLens headsets to recognize an object in the real world and dynamically map relevant instructions or visuals onto it. It does so automatically without requiring users or MR developers to have any expert knowledge or barcodes to align physical and virtual objects.

Launch of Dynamics 365 Remote Assist: People in two different physical locations can collaborate and solve problems in a shared MR environment.

Taken together, these solutions enable, for example, a headset-wearing car owner to be guided by an automaker-developed MR program in performing a simple repair job at home.

Comprehensive biosensing

Life after COVID-19 will see growing adoption of biosensors to monitor the presence and spread of pathogens that threaten lives and health. Well see deployment of ubiquitous sensors to detect viral pathogens in the air, water, soil, surfaces, and human and animal tissues. Well also see them internetworked through IoT (the Internet of Things).

Addressing this imperative head-on, Microsoft announced Premonition, an early warning system for disease outbreaks such as, but not limited to, COVID-19. Available in coming weeks through an early access program, Premonition is designed to detect pandemics and other disease outbreaks early so that they can be prevented, contained, and otherwise mitigated before they spin out of control. The service automates the capture, collection, aggregation, and analysis of data on potential outbreaks.

Behind the scenes, Premonition leverages a a global network of IoT-connected sensing platforms to feed supercomputers with real-time genomic data recovered from insects and other environmental sources. Running on Azure, it uses robotics to autonomously collect environmental samples and scan the recovered genomes for biological threats.

Over the past five years, Microsoft has tested its technologies in various habitats worldwide, ranging from the sands of the Florida Keys to the deep forests of Tanzania. To date, it has scanned more than 80 trillion base-pairs of environmentally recovered genomic material worldwide for biological threats.

Anticipating the growing need for governments to maintain counter-contagion nerve centers, Microsoft has worked with Harris County, Texas (where Houston is located), for the past four years on the initative now called Premonition. In conjunction with Premonitions public launch, Microsoft has announced that Harris County is expanding its deployment to support continuous biological situational awareness. The countys goal is to enable health officials to monitor and forecast outbreaks in real time on a map so that they can better plan early interventions to protect the public.

The announcements that werent made

Microsoft has the strongest portfolio for helping enterprise customers shift operations toward a future in which more work is done from employees homes and the practical distinction between physical and virtual team spaces vanishes.

Such productivity will depend on tools such as those Microsoft announced at Ignite for social distancing, remote collaboration, immersive reality, and comprehensive biosensing. But there were a few notable gaps in Microsofts strategy, if we consider purely the announcements at Ignite 2020.

For starters, Microsoft did not make any robotics-focused announcements. That was unfortunate, if we consider that the market for automated disinfection robots continues to heat up with new entrants. Before long, many offices and public spaces will be equipped with biosensors and robotic cleansing platforms that allow workers and customers to reoccupy them.

Also, Microsoft did not indicate whether it plans to package its Premonition biosensing technology for on-premise deployment in enterprise facilities, or even for hybrid deployments that span the Azure public cloud and enterprise private clouds. This was a noteworthy gap in its Premonition story, especially since Microsoft made a big to-do about adding more devices and services to its Azure Stack hybrid-cloud portfolio.

Neither was there any discussion of whether Microsoft plans to provide customers of Premonition with quarantine orchestration tools to guide more orderly lockdown, quarantine, and reopening of physical facilities in the face of disease outbreaks.

That latter capability will almost certainly become a standard feature of enterprise facility management solutions everywhere as we move more deeply into the new decade.
ROME (dpa-AFX) - Italy's jobless rate decreased in August, defying expectations for an increase, data from the statistical office ISTAT showed on Thursday. The jobless rate fell to 9.7 percent August from 9.8 percent in July. Economists had expected the rate to rise to 10.1 percent. The employment rate rose to 67.3 percent in August from 66.9 percent in the previous month. The number of employed increased by 83,000 persons from the previous month. The unemployment rate among the youth aged between 15 and 24, rose to 32.1 percent in August from 31.8 percent in the prior month. 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.
GBP/USD Exchange Rate Falls as US Continues to Discuss Stimulus Measures

The Pound to US Dollar (GBP/USD) exchange rate held steady, with the pairing currently trading around $1.292.

The US Dollar (USD) suffered from improving global sentiment following the US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and House of Representatives speaker Nancy Pelosi coming close to striking another stimulus deal for the American economy.

Consequently, demand for the safe-haven USD has slipped on growing confidence in the global economy.

Jingyi Pan, senior market strategist at IG, explains:

The fact of the matter, however, remains that both sides remain at work in ironing out the details that would add this into the list of things to watch into the end of week. Assuming any middle ground achieved between what had been the higher bound for Republicans at $1.5 trillion and Democrats latest $2.2 trillion plan in terms of costs, this could potentially provide the US market with another booster shot. One to watch.

In US economic news, today saw the release of the Initial Jobless Claims for September, which fell unexpectedly from 873,000 to 837,000. As a result, Greenback investors have become moderately most confident about Americas economic recovery.

Richard Flynn, UK managing director at Charles Schwab, commented:

Todays decline in initial jobless claims shows some sign of improvement in the labour market, but without extended supplemental unemployment benefits, the outlook for the broader economic recovery and US GDP growth remains highly uncertain.

Pound (GBP) Sinks as EU Launches Legal Action Against Downing Street

The Pound (GBP) held steady today following the release of the UK Manufacturing PMI for September. Although the figure fell below forecasts to 54.1 the sector has remained relatively strong.

Duncan Brock, the Group Director at the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply, said:

Manufacturing made solid progress towards recovery in September, with just a minor step back from Augusts two-and-a-half-year index high. New pipelines of work increased for the third month in a row and export orders the strongest for almost two years.

Meanwhile, UK market mood was dampened after Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission President, announced that the EU had launched legal action against the UK for breaching the Brexit withdrawal agreement.

As a result, GBP investors have become concerned that souring relations between the UK and the EU could jeopardise a post-Brexit trade agreement.

GBP/USD Outlook: US Nonfarm Payrolls Data in Focus

US Dollar (USD) investors will be looking ahead to tomorrows release of Septembers US Nonfarm Payrolls data. Any improvement in Americas economic performance could further drag on safe-haven demand for the Greenback.

Tomorrow will also see the release of Augusts US Factory Orders figure. If these sink, then we could see the USD benefit as concerns grow over the worlds largest economy.

Any further indications that US could go forward with stimulus measures would also improve risk-sentiment and drag down the USD/GBP exchange rate.

The GBP/USD exchange rate will however continue to be influenced by ongoing Brexit developments. Any failure for Downing Street to compromise on a post-Brexit trade deal would prove GBP-negative.
Emma Moore is a Research Associate at the Center for a New American Security and Non-Resident Fellow at the Brute Krulak Center for Innovation and Creativity at Marine Corps University.

Katie Galgano is a Research Assistant at the Center for a New American Security specializing in democracy and governance.

Last week, a group of bipartisan lawmakers expressed their frustration with the military's handling of sexual assault by introducing the "I Am Vanessa Guillen Act," new legislation to address a long-standing problem.

Sexual misconduct is a pervasive problem in the military, with rates continuing to rise on a year-to-year basis. Instances of sexual assault and rape for service women increased from 4.3% in 2016 to 6.2% in 2018. This increase comes despite greater congressional, military and public attention and support to addressing sexual harassment in the ranks.

As a result of sexual assault and harassment, as many as 25% of survivors leave the military. Publicly, the military says it views sexual assault as a readiness issue. But internally, it is not treated like one.

The Department of Defense has spent millions on measures meant to prevent sexual assault, including forming a task force in 2004 that led to the creation of the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office (SAPRO) in 2005. Nevertheless, these efforts are failing. Congress already requires SAPRO to submit an annual report, but while the reports call attention to the ongoing issue, they have not led to substantive progress on prevention. As the DoD's solutions to sexual assault and harassment remain ineffective, Congress must continue to leverage its oversight ability to effect change.

Numerous lawmakers --including Reps. Jackie Speier, D-Calif., and Chellie Pingree, D-Maine; Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y.; Martha McSally, R-Ariz.; and Joni Ernst, R-Iowa; and former Sen. Claire McCaskill, among others -- have advocated for change, but to little avail. Some male congressmen occasionally sponsor or support bills and amendments, but it has largely been left to the women to lead the charge in demanding change. For real, effective and permanent change to occur, this issue needs to be addressed and supported by both men and women.

To achieve this change, Congress should continue to employ its legislative prerogative to pass new laws aimed at decreasing sexual assault in the military and increasing support for survivors. For example, Sens. Gillibrand and Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, introduced the Safe to Report bill, aimed at protecting service members from retaliation for reporting sexual assault. Gillibrand also regularly advocates for removing sex crimes from the military justice system with the Military Justice Improvement bill, introducing it annually as an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act.

There are competing arguments about whether prosecution should be kept under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, but so far, insufficient change has occurred to adequately address sexual violence in the ranks. As Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., said in 2014 on the issue, "The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result."

Should the DoD continue failing at comprehensively and effectively addressing sexual violence, Congress must intervene more robustly.

The most promising movement has been the bipartisan "I Am Vanessa Guillen" bill, co-sponsored by more than 90 lawmakers, which would substantially change the way sexual violence is treated within the military. The bill proposes making sexual harassment a crime under the UCMJ, moving prosecutorial decisions outside the chain of command, and establishing trained investigators, among others. Forging new ground, the bill is the most comprehensive legislation yet in requiring change across the services and illustrates the inadequacy of existing practice and Congress' role in oversight and accountability. Should the bill pass both houses and be signed into law, the services should lean into enabling and supporting change.

Aside from passing new legislation, Congress should continue calling attention to sexual assault and harassment in the ranks through public hearings to name and shame services and communities not taking adequate steps and to indicate the issue is a congressional priority.

As Richard Fontaine and Loren DeJonge Schulman wrote for the Center for a New American Security, through "coordinated questioning  hearings can draw the public eye" and increase public pressure for change. For instance, the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Military Personnel held a hearing on the military's #MeToo moment in July 2020 following Guillen's murder "to review lack of reporting of sexual harassment in the Department of Defense due to fear of retaliation."

Despite many reporting requirements, training measures, victim advocates, and attempts to reduce retaliation for reporting sex crimes, 58% of women still experience retaliation. Congressional hearings must question the weaknesses of military culture. Congressional leaders can also ask for more direct information, such as Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., requesting the Government Accountability Office to examine the Army's sexual assault program, or the "I Am Vanessa Guillen Act" requesting the GAO review the military's procedures for finding missing persons.

One of SAPRO's 2019 focus areas was "unit climate," on which it noted "male-dominated cultural norms are slowly changing" and "military culture is heading in the right direction, albeit slowly."

Each branch of the military has at least one core value regarding character -- integrity, honor, respect -- yet, as the number of sexual assault cases displays, this core value is not followed at even the most basic level of service member to service member. As Speier noted, there exists "a pernicious military culture, that time and time again, SAPRO report after SAPRO report exposes an environment that is ripe for sexual harassment."

Again, greater fail-safe measures must be in place to mitigate continued inconsistencies in military action versus pervasive culture. Members of Congress should continue to push leaders to answer how military culture successfully prioritizes physical fitness, military bearing and other requirements while failing to decrease the pervasiveness of sexual assault, regardless of what some DoD leaders claim.

The annual NDAA is a pathway for prompting culture change. Resources should be appropriated to address and hold accountable military culture as the root cause for sexual violence. Funding could be used to hire congressionally appointed independent inspectors to evaluate unit culture, regularly identified as the key variable in harassment and discrimination. Such cultural audits could be driven by these inspectors and staff, who would evaluate each unit, write a report with recommendations, and appear at a congressional hearing to answer questions. Furthermore, Congress can allocate money for implementing the recommendations and require military officials to report back to Congress, both in a written report and public hearing, on progress implementing the recommendations. Progress will be corroborated by the independent inspectors who could perform follow-up evaluations every other year.

Congress can also use its power of the purse to ensure that the Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services (DACOWITS) and the Defense Advisory Committee on Investigation, Prosecution, and Defense of Sexual Assault in the Armed Forces (DAC-IPAD) continue to be funded at levels sufficient to complete their work and that the services take recommendations seriously.

Both advisory committees have the authority to demand key information from each of the services about current policies and shortcomings and have direct contact and influence with the secretary of defense to enact key reforms. DACOWITS reports that 98% of its more than 1,000 recommendations have been adopted in some form by the DoD. DAC-IPAD, largely viewed as objective, reviews allegations of sexual misconduct and reports to both the DoD and Congress. Providing these advisory boards with sufficient funding is vital to promoting the work they do and keeping their issues at the forefront with the secretary of defense.

The United States is not alone in struggling with this issue. The United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand and Australia all suffer from high levels of sex crimes in the military, and efforts to decrease cases have been largely unsuccessful. Lessons can be gleaned from our allies: Australian ministers launched a task force on defense abuse in 2012 with recommendations in a 2016 report. Furthermore, Australia associates a tangible monetary cost to abuse, offering reparations for survivors. To indicate the impact of sexual violence on the health of the force and readiness, Congress could follow suit to require the services host restorative engagement conferences, mandate reparation payments, and safe reporting.

Sexual assault in the military is a significant issue, particularly as it relates to recruiting and retaining talent and force readiness. Since the DoD cannot seem to get a handle on the issue, Congress must use its oversight, legislative and appropriation tools to effect change.

-- The opinions expressed in this op-ed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Military.com. If you would like to submit your own commentary, please send your article to opinions@military.com for consideration.
Victims' portraits displayed during an exhibition at the Kigali Genocide Memorial in Kigali, Rwanda on April 29, 2018. (Yasuyoshi Chiba/AFP via Getty Images)

French High Court OKs Extradition of Rwanda Genocide Suspect

PARISFrances highest court on Sept. 30 gave the green light for a Rwandan genocide suspect Felicien Kabuga to be extradited to a special international court in Tanzania, rejecting his appeal.

Kabuga, one of the most-wanted fugitives in Rwandas 1994 genocide, was arrested outside Paris in May after 25 years on the run. He is accused of genocide and crimes against humanity for equipping militias that killed more than 800,000 ethnic Tutsis and moderate Hutus who tried to protect them.

Kabuga has denied involvement in the massacre.

In June, a French appeals court ordered Kabuga, 87, to be turned over to the U.N.s International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals, which had sought his arrest since 2013.

Laurent Bayon, one of Kabugas lawyers, told The Associated Press that the court decision all but assures that Kabuga will be transferred to Arusha, Tanzania, to face the U.N. International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, which works with the Mechanism.

He left open the possibility of a further appeal to the European Court of Human Rights, which allows for emergency rulings, and he asserted that the medical exam, given by a prison doctor at Paris La Sante penitentiary, was inadequate.

Twice weve asked for a professional medical expertise to be conducted on Felicien Kabuga in order to ensure his health was compatible with the transfer. Twice, we were turned down, Bayon said. So, I am asking myself how today the court, in the wake of these refusals, could have decided his health condition was compatible with this transfer. Unless one assumes the magistrates are also doctors.

Frances Court of Cassation rejected arguments to keep Kabuga in France.

Rwandan prosecutors say financial documents found in the capital, Kigali, after the genocide indicated that Kabuga, then a wealthy businessman, used dozens of his companies to import vast quantities of machetes that were used to slaughter people.

He also was accused of establishing the station Radio Television Mille Collines that broadcast vicious propaganda against the ethnic Tutsi minority, as well as training and equipping a militia that led the killing spree.

Kabuga was close to former President Juvenal Habyarimana, whose death when his plane was shot down over Kigali sparked the 100-day genocide. Kabugas daughter married Habyarimanas son.

The Mechanisms chief prosecutor, Serge Brammertz, said on Sept. 29 ahead of the court decided that a team from the Mechanism is in Kigali to assess the evidence against Kabuga, contact witnesses, and seek out new evidence.

The objective is to update and strengthen the existing case, Brammertz said. We continue the search for the remaining fugitives, he said, adding that the main challenge is lack of cooperation from countries where we believe the fugitives are hiding, or traveling to.

Commenting earlier this month for the first time since Kabugas arrest, Rwandan President Paul Kagame said on national television it was possible that those who sheltered him didnt want the death of the aging fugitive on their hands.

The French court decision was issued in a statement.

By Elaine Ganley
Cheesecake is one of America's favorite dessert, may it be paired with coffee or served after a hearty meal, it is difficult to say no to a slice of creamy and dense cheesecake.

Cheesecakes have evolved throughout the years, and many pastry chefs gave their own spin on the delicious dessert. From ultra-light to fruity to sugar-free to burnt ones, here are some of the best cheesecakes in America.

Eileen's Special Cheesecake in New York, New York

Eileen's serve one of the best New York-style cheesecake. The owner, Eileen Avezzano, is considered as an institution, as she makes classic cheesecakes from her SoHo shop since 1975.

Eileen makes her light and creamy cakes in more than 40 flavors, a new one added every year, with at least 25 flavors on the menu at all times.

From Maker's Mark to Orange Marble to Sugar-Free Rocky Road, Eileen has it all. She can also accommodate a special flavor not on the menu. If you can't decide between the flavors, you can try their sampler plate.

Also Read: Perfect Desserts for People Who Don't Like Chocolate

Maurice in Portland, Oregon

Pastry chef Kristen D. Murray was encouraged by then-head chef Marcus Samuelsson to develop her own unique approach to cooking. The result of this is Maurice's Black Pepper Cheesecake, which Murray says epitomized her whimsical style.

Murray said that she likes the juxtaposition of a light cheesecake with hand-cracked pepper to further help digestion and cut the fat that most associate with cheesecake. Murray's recipe uses equal parts cream cheese, lemon juice, vanilla, aquavit, and homemade creme fraiche.

Zanze Cheesecake in San Francisco, California

Sam Zanze, the 82-year-old owner of Zanze's Cheesecake, believes that a good item will always work as long as it is very good. In his cake, his cheesecakes.

For the past 36 years, he's been making cheesecakes that are not overly sweet, very delicate, not heavy at all, and with a very good aftertaste. He was able to learn his famous crust-less European-style cheesecake from his father, a Croatian who trained with German pastry chefs.

Zanze's shop does not have a website and is only open four days a week. Zanze keeps his menu simple, with optional toppings like sour cherries in kirsch or chocolate shavings.

Tatte Bakery & Cafe in Boston, Massachusetts

Tatte Bakery & Cafe chef and owner Tzurit Or said that she started baking when she was 9. Her mother made her a cake every other week and that she used to hide the crust from her because she could not resist eating it all.

This inspired her to create her own cake, and her fluffy and light vanilla cheesecake is a best seller. The cheesecake has a creamy texture and flavor, far from the traditional American cheesecake.

Commander's Palace in New Orleans, Louisiana

Commander's Palace is famous for its Creole Cream Cheese Cheesecake, which takes five days to make. The recipe is more than 20 years old, and it was first developed by the late Chef Jamie Shannon. Creole is cream cheese made with milk from local cows who spend their days feasting on the salty marsh grass.

On the first day, the milk is mixed with vegetable rennet, and it is left to rest at room temperature for 48 hours. On the third day, it rests for another 24 hours in the refrigerator. On the fourth day, chefs make the batter and leave it to sit for another day. Then it is baked.

Related Article: Best Bakeries in America, Perfect for Pastry Lovers

@ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
ALLENWOOD  A second federal prison in central Pennsylvania has seen an increase in the number of inmates and staff who have tested positive for the coronavirus.

As of Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Prisons (BOP) reported 27 inmates and six staff had tested positive at the medium-security prison in the Allenwood complex.

In early August, the Lewisburg Federal Penitentiary, which also is a medium-security prison, reported 51 inmates had tested positive for COVID-19.

As of Wednesday, Lewisburg reported no positive cases among inmates and 84 prisoners listed as recovered. Ten staff members are on the current positive test list.

The Allenwood inmates who have tested positive have been quarantined and isolated if need be, BOP spokesman Justin Long said.

Protocols have been implemented for the rest of the inmates to mitigate any potential spread of the virus, he said.

Staffing of the prison has not been affected by the six being off due to testing positive, he said.

The Allenwood penitentiary has four inmates, all of whom recently arrived at the facility, who have tested positive, Long said.

They were identified upon initial intake screening and isolated, he said, noting that the penitentiarys operations have not been impacted.

The low-security prison in the complex does not have any inmates with the virus, BOP statistics show.

Inmates in all three Allenwoods facilities are frequently screened by health services staff, Long said.

Throughout the pandemic, there have been spikes in inmate positive cases, but as a result of our mitigation strategies and lessons learned we have been able to flatten the curve in our institutions nationwide, he said.

The number of inmates nationwide hospitalized and on ventilators is near zero, he said.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, 124 inmates and two staff members have died from COVID-19, the BOP says. Four of those inmates were on home confinement, it says.

Current BOP statistics show 1,804 inmates and 724 staff members with the virus.
FORT WORTH, Texas: The Fort Worth Police Department on Thursday fired a veteran officer for posting a racially insensitive meme on Facebook that drew wide public criticism last month, police said in a statement.

Officer Roger Ballard was given a indefinite suspension, which a spokesman described as equivalent to termination, for violating the departments general orders, according to the statement. It said that after hearing about the post on Sept. 20, Internal Affairs quickly began an investigation and concluded that Officer Roger Ballard was responsible for posting the racially insensitive meme containing a photo which led to numerous complaints and public outrage.

Internal affairs investigators are also looking into a second officers involvement.

Ballard worked as a patrol officer on the day shift and had been with the department since 2002, said Officer Buddy Calzada. He declined to describe Ballards Facebook post or say whether the officer is appealing his firing.

The meme showed a photo of a Black man in a casket accompanied by the text, The face you make when you dont understand Stop resisting, according to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. The paper cites screenshots of the post on a personal Facebook page that has since been deactivated.

The Fort Worth Police Officers Association did not immediately respond to a request for comment. It was not immediately clear if Ballard has an attorney.

Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor
By Express News Service

CHENNAI: Tamil Nadus COVID-19 caseload crossed the 6 lakh-mark on Thursday, reporting 5,688 new cases, which took its tally to 6,03,290.

The State also reported 66 deaths on the day, taking the toll to 9,586. With another 5,516 people being discharged after treatment, the number of people discharged since March now stands at 5,47,335.



Chennai continued to report over a 1000-cases, recording 1,289 cases on the day. Its neighbouring districts of Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram and Tiruvallur reported 356, 148 and 260 cases respectively.

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The number of new cases reported from the Western districts continued to soar, Coimbatore leading the pack with 550, followed by Salem with 341. Erode recorded 145 cases, Tiruppur 192 and Namakkal 111. However, Dharmapuri reported 79 cases, Nilgiris 72 and Krishnagiri 87 cases. The lowest number of new cases -- nine -- was reported from the southern district of Ramanathapuram.

Among the deaths reported on the day, nine of the deceased did not have comorbid conditions.

Tamil Nadu crossed 1 lakh Covid cases on July 3, nearly four months after its first case was reported on March 7. The caseload crossed 2 lakh on July 25, 3 lakh on August 10, 4 lakh on August 27 and 5 lakh on September 13.

Speaking to reporters after inaugurating a post-Covid clinic at Government Omandurar Medical College Hospital, Health Minister C Vijayabaskar reiterated that the positivity rate in the State is less than 10 per cent. "The aim is to bring it below 5 per cent," he said.

He added that, as cases in the neighbouring districts are increasing, people should be careful. They should wear face masks to prevent the spread of the virus, the minister said.

Meanwhile, according to the media bulletin issued by the Directorate of Public Health, another private lab -- SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre in Chengalpattu --has been approved for Covid-19 testing.
The United States will protect and defend the Good Friday Agreement, the US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland said.

Mick Mulvaney said the agreement could be at risk because of the UK Governments controversial Internal Market Bill, but that it was something the United States was very interested in seeing not happen.

He made the comments on a visit to Dublin on Monday where he met with the Irish premier Micheal Martin and Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney.

Expand Close Taoiseach Micheal Martin greeting United States Special Envoy for Northern Ireland Michael Mulvaney at Government Buildings (Julien Behal/PA) PA / Facebook

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Whatsapp Taoiseach Micheal Martin greeting United States Special Envoy for Northern Ireland Michael Mulvaney at Government Buildings (Julien Behal/PA)

His visit comes as the British government rebuffed a fresh demand from the EU to withdraw the Internal Market Bill, which could see the UK unilaterally tear up elements of the Brexit divorce deal.

Mr Mulvaney said the US was watching the EU/UK negotiations closely.

I think its fair to say we are aware and cautious and watching the situation, he said.

Concern would imply that were worried and I dont think were at that point yet but we certainly understand the interplay between the EU/UK trade deal and the Internal Market Bill and the Good Friday agreement.

Thats mostly while Im here. I have not been able to be here previously because of Covid.

He told RTE News that the Good Friday Agreement could be at risk.

He said: I dont think it necessarily follows that just because the UK introduced the Internal Markets Bill that automatically means the Good Friday Agreement is at risk.

But I think anyone who looks at the situation understands there could be a series of events that could put the Good Friday Agreement at risk.

Again something were very interested in seeing not happen in the United States.

Were here to protect, defend that Good Friday Agreement that was so hard fought and won.

Mr Mulvaney met Mr Coveney on Monday morning.

Following the meeting, Mr Coveney said the two men discussed the return of powersharing in Northern Ireland, the work that has resumed on a North-South basis and the challenges arising in the context of Covid-19 and of Brexit.

I emphasised our real concern at the current approach of the UK Government and the vital importance of the full implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement and the Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland, for the protection of the Good Friday Agreement and the achievements of the peace process, Mr Coveney said.

Those achievements were made possible by the sustained engagement of successive US administrations and special envoys, and friends of Ireland across the United States.

I appreciate the deep personal commitment that Mick has shown in continuing these vital conversations and contacts which underpin this engagement.

Mr Mulvaney also met with the leader of the opposition and president of Sinn Fein Mary Lou McDonald during his visit to Dublin.

On Sunday, he met Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis in Belfast. Speaking afterwards, he said he believed the UK and the European Union could still reach a trade deal that would be acceptable to all sides.

The former acting chief of staff to US President Donald Trump took up the position of special envoy in March.

An Irish American with strong links to Co Mayo, this is his first trip to Ireland in his new role.

The diplomatic role had remained vacant since former US senator Gary Hart left the position in 2017 when Donald Trump took power.

Later in the week, Mr Mulvaney will meet representatives from Northern Irelands devolved government and he will also travel to London to meet with MPs.
Requests for mail-in ballots ahead of the November election have increased this year as more people decide to make their voice heard from home.

Despite promises of increased cleaning and limits on the number of people inside polling places at any one time, county officials are seeing more people asking to cast their votes by mail-in ballot.

Roughly 1,040 Greene County residents have requested mail-in ballots, according to the U.S. Elections Project, which has released a county-by-county breakdown of the requests.

Mail-in ballot requests in the county have seen a significant increase since last year, as has early voting, Greene County Clerk Deborah Banghart said.

The county has roughly 9,137 registered voters, meaning roughly 11.4% of voters have requested the mail-in option, according to the project.

This is higher than in past years and, so far, weve had a lot of people coming in for early voting, right off the bat, Banghart said.

Many counties are seeing requests for mail-in ballots in the thousands.

In Cass County, 1,078 of the countys 7,971 registered voters have requested mail-in ballots, according to the projects update Tuesday. That is about 13.5% of registered Cass voters.

According to the projects data, Brown County has had only one voter request a mail-in ballot  out of 3,522 registered voters  though County Clerk Judy Ham said she has had several such requests.

Weve already had 76 ballots come back so far, Ham said.

Though she doesnt have exact numbers, Ham said the number of Brown County voters requesting mail-in ballots has increased since last year.

In Morgan County, about 11.2%  or about 2,550  of the countys 22,677 registered voters have requested mail-in ballots.

So far, 2,001,775 Illinois voters have requested mail-in ballots.

The biggest reason for the increase is concern over the COVID-19 pandemic, Banghart said.

Some are worried; the pandemic has a lot to do with (the increase), Banghart said.

County officials have put many safety measures in place for the upcoming election, including limiting the number of people inside polling places at one time, requiring that a face mask be worn, additional cleaning and sanitation, and increased opportunities for early voting.

We are waiting for a drop box to arrive and we have a sanitation sprayer that should be arriving soon, Banghart said.

Other numbers:

Jersey County has had 2,196 of its 16,306 voters request mail-in ballots about 13.5%.

Pike County has had 950 mail-in ballot requests from its 10,268 voters  about 9.3%.

Scott County had about 10% of its voters request mail-in ballots  about 362 out of 3,614.

Schuyler County has about 15% of its voters requesting mail-in ballots  789 out of 5,279.

Sangamon County has 32,927 out of 153,720 voters requesting mail-in ballots  about 21.4%.
Peace between Israel, the UAE, and Bahrain is an occasion for both celebration and self-reflection. Most immediately, it promises a new strategic framework for contesting regional threats to American interests, as well as those of Americas allies  threats stemming from the aggressive designs of Iran and Turkey. But it is also an occasion for critical reflection by many American policy makers, analysts, and commentators, not to mention their foreign counterparts. The reason: This achievement and the paths that led to it defy the conventional wisdom that prevailed for at least 30 years.

That wisdom decreed that the lack of peace in the Middle East as a whole was due to the IsraeliArab conflict, and that the surest  and only  way to reach a broader peace was through pressuring or cajoling the Israeli and the Palestinian leaders into compromising their aims.

This was to be accomplished by a so-called peace process launched in 1993 through the Oslo Accords. This view informed the many phases of the peace process through several American administrations. Over 25 years, whole careers in government and think tanks were built in this fashion. Adherence to its orthodoxy won praise for statesmanship and good judgment.

The conventional view was stated with particular energy and force at the very highest level in December 2016 by then-secretary of state John Kerry. He declared, There will be no advanced and separate peace [for Israel] with the Arab world without the Palestinian process and Palestinian peace. Everybody needs to understand that. That is the hard reality. Kerry warned, Ive heard several prominent politicians in Israel sometimes saying, well, the Arab world is in a different place now, we just have to reach out to them, and we can work some things with the Arab world, and well deal with the Palestinians. No, no, no and no.

Kerrys four noes bore an unfortunate resemblance to the infamous three noes, pronounced at an Arab League summit in Khartoum, in the summer of 1967: no peace with Israel; no recognition of Israel; no to negotiations with Israel. But the recent events have produced at least four yeses  two unqualified affirmatives from the UAE and Bahrain; two tacit approvals from Saudi Arabia and Oman. Kerrys hard reality has proven an illusion.

Story continues

There was always a minority view that disputed the conventional wisdom. This minority contended that the Middle East was awash in local and regional rivalries, and that viewing these disputes primarily through the lens of the ArabIsraeli conflict was absurd and harmful. This minority view was first stated in the early 1990s by Benjamin Netanyahu, then leader of the Likud opposition, today Israels prime minister. He declared that Israels way to a glorious future was not tearing down our walls of defense . . . but to fortify [the state] economically and socially. This was to be partially accomplished by the cultivation of sophisticated industries, including the new industry of knowledge and an economic liberalization. The creation of a strong Israel would eventually secure Israel, a prominent theme in A Place Among the Nations, the title of Netanyahus book of that era. Peace would come through strength.

This view gathered force over the ensuing years as the Oslo Accords brought not peace but increased violence. The minority view attributed these failures to the lack of a genuine Palestinian partner for peace. Its evidence: the rejection by Yasser Arafat of the generous peace plan formulated by President Bill Clinton in 2000 and Arafats prompt instigation of the Second Intifada which killed and wounded thousands of Israelis, most of them civilians; the similar rejection by Arafats successor Mahmoud Abbas of another still more generous peace plan in 2008; and the Palestinians prolonged disdain for an Israeli settlement freeze which was demanded by President Obama in his failed attempt to relaunch negotiations in 2010. Then, too, there were the Gaza Wars, which have erupted periodically since Israel unilaterally withdrew in 2005 and left a de facto Palestinian state ruled by Hamas, a movement openly dedicated to Israels destruction.

The minority viewed European and American indulgence of Palestinian intransigence as contributing to these failures by feeding Palestinian leaders hopes that, despite their intrinsically weak position, Palestinian suffering would leverage world opinion into forcing upon Israel ever greater concessions. The minority decried Palestinian leaders declared aim: forcing Israeli acceptance of millions of so-called Palestinian refugees within its borders, a result which would have meant, and was intended to mean, the end of Israel as an independent state.

Through these years, Palestinian supporters contended that failure to support their expansive claims would ruin not just Israeli, but American relations with angry, oil-rich Arab nations and the broader Islamic world. Israels leaders, in particular Netanyahu, eventually undertook to test that premise. Israel could win peace with some Arab states, Netanyahu argued, through a policy, of peace for peace. This was the policy Kerry ridiculed in his final days in office, but Netanyahu proved right and Kerry wrong.

It is perhaps understandable, if lamentable, that the erroneous conventional wisdom prevailed for so long. It was creditable to feel some concern for Palestinian suffering, and generous, as well as easier, to accept Palestinian leaders professions of good faith. Certainly, unanticipated events, dramatic and vast, occurred in the Middle East over the last 25 years: the war with al-Qaeda; the Iraq War; the so-called Arab Spring and the conflicts it spawned; Irans increasingly violent interventions across the reigion; latterly, the aggressive ambitions of President Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey. Some Arab leaders have grown increasingly dissatisfied with the effects of prolonged Palestinian rejectionism. Cumulatively, these events created new conditions favorable to the deal recently struck, as President Trumps winter 2020 peace plan and some others more recently have now observed.

Still, conventional views have been remarkably slow in taking changed conditions into account, both with regard to Israel and the broader Middle East. The crucial question now is whether the policy community that embraced the conventional wisdom  and even earlier this year saw no prospects for an IsraeliArab breakthrough  can face up to its errors and recalibrate its approach.

It is of course too soon to reach a definitive answer, but the results so far are hardly promising; they are at best ambiguous. The editors of the New York Times grant that something was accomplished: The Middle East Deal is good but not that good. Why? The agreements made only a perfunctory nod to what Middle East peace has long referred to: peace between Palestinians and Israelis. A prominent New York Times columnist opines that the whole new situation is a mirage. Regrettably, these views have been echoed by prominent politicians such as Nancy Pelosi on the grounds that the Palestinian issue remains paramount. Martin Indyk, one-time special envoy to IsraeliPalestinian negotiations, allows that normalization is a historic development, but it doesnt resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict which was what they and Obama were trying to achieve. In that respect they failed just like the rest of us.

Well, not quite. Oslos failures persisted over 25 years. The current American plan successfully enhanced peaceful relations between Israel and moderate Arab states as both an end in itself and as a possible precursor to progress with Palestinians. Peace between Israel and its neighbors is the more important regional concern, not just for American interests but for these Arab states as well. And by undermining Arab support for Palestinian leaders excessive claims, the recent deals add pressure for a reasonable compromise leading to a solution.

As the scholar Hussein Ibish has observed, these deals could induce greater sobriety on the part of the Palestinians. The Arab parties to the recent deals express just such a hope. Western dissenters dismiss or ignore the prospect of such progress. Perhaps, some may say, the Arab states sentiments reflect a cynical abandonment of rejectionist Palestinian demands. But, if so, this itself shows how badly the dissenters have misread what is important to the region.

The clearest task of American policy going forward is to build upon the recent agreements with a view to the interests of America and our regional allies. This includes first and foremost expanding peace between Israel and the regional states that seek evolutionary, not revolutionary progress in the face of revisionist Islamist threats  most notably our great and mutual regional foe, Iran. These threats, potentially augmented by Russian and Chinese hands, could shift the fate of a regional critical to the democracies worldwide. Growing cooperation between Arab states and Israel can be an important counter to such threats.

As we proceed, we can urge and support accommodationist movement from heretofore rejectionist Palestinian leaders. But we cannot force them into a reasonable compromise that they continue, sadly, to disdain. Responsible states of the region have decided that they have greater geostrategic concerns, concerns which we share. Parts of our policy community need to catch up.

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PORTLAND (AP)  The city of Portland said Wednesday it will fine the owners of a painting contractor $20,000, saying they created a front company in order to qualify as a woman-owned business.

The city is accusing the business, Portland Coatings, of receiving over $1 million in contracts while falsely claiming to be owned by a woman.





. . .
There is a new rig in the parking lot at the Helena Police Department, and for the first time ever it's a hybrid.

Lt. Jayson Zander said the department is using the vehicle for a trial run to see whether it can squeeze more efficiency out of the electric/gasoline hybrid than it could from a traditional gasoline-only cruiser.

"Really there is a big push from Ford on these for the fuel savings," Zander said. "We are already seeing an average 5- to 7 mile-per-gallon increase in efficiency."

The vehicle is Ford's police interceptor model. It's modeled after the sixth-generation Explorer and is "more purpose built than it has ever been," according to Zander.

One major change in this model is that it's now built off a truck frame rather than a car/hatchback frame. The "police interceptor" badge dates all the way back to 1992, when it could be found on many Crown Victoria cars.

Zander, who is in charge of all vehicle ordering for HPD, said the hybrid option adds $3,000 to the base cost of the vehicle. This is one of the cost balances HPD will monitor to see how quickly the vehicle saves that cost on fuel.

Zander ordered the hybrid back in October 2019 and it finally arrived at the station approximately two months ago. The vehicle has been on the streets during this two-month period.

There are a number of ways the vehicle could prove more efficient beyond simple fuel efficiency. According to Zander, the average police vehicle probably spends a few hours per day in an idle state. While this isn't necessarily a lot, it is more than the average civilian vehicle.

Zander said HPD doesn't typically leave its vehicles idle while at the station, but each vehicle will spend some time idling during patrols when officers are out on a call. When not in motion, the vehicle will switch to its electric battery, saving fuel while maintaining power to the air conditioner, radio, police computer and more.

The vehicle also has an automatic shutdown process once the key is removed. This will maximize efficiency during times when the vehicle is unexpectedly not in use, such as any potential foot pursuit. However, the vehicle can still get moving quickly when it needs to. It actually has more horsepower than a typical gas-only cruiser.

"There are lots of considerations with emissions and fuel consumption," Zander said. "Our fuel is paid on the taxpayers' dollar."

For Zander, anything that can save money in the police budget and unburdens the taxpayers is of ultimate benefit. Police cruisers typically run fewer than 20,000 miles per year, even though this vehicle and many others run up to three shifts per day.

It will take at least a year on the streets before the HPD can determine if the fuel savings, maintenance costs and everything else equates to a net cost savings. Zander said police cruisers typically don't get good gas mileage, so he has high hopes for the hybrid vehicle.

Zander is confident enough that he placed an order for two more hybrid vehicles in the 2021 budget. Given the benefits he has seen thus far, he believes it could ultimately be more efficient for the HPD.

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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has broadened its investigation of a serious illness in AstraZeneca Plc's COVID-19 vaccine study and will look at data from earlier trials of similar vaccines developed by the same scientists, three sources familiar with the details told Reuters.

AstraZeneca's large, late-stage U.S. trial has remained on hold since Sept. 6, after a study participant in Britain fell ill with what was believed to be a rare spinal inflammatory disorder called transverse myelitis.

The widened scope of the FDA probe raises the likelihood of additional delays for what has been one of the most advanced COVID-19 vaccine candidates in development. The requested data was expected to arrive this week, after which the FDA would need time to analyze it, two of the sources said.

Effective vaccines are seen as essential to help end a pandemic that has killed more than one million people worldwide. The administration of President Donald Trump has pledged $1.2 billion to support development of the AstraZeneca vaccine and secure 300 million doses for the United States. Other leading companies in the U.S. vaccine race include Pfizer Inc, Moderna Inc and Johnson & Johnson.

Regulators in the UK, Brazil, India and South Africa have allowed AstraZeneca to resume its clinical trials there. The FDA, however, wants to determine whether similar side effects emerged in trials of other vaccines designed by AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine partner, researchers at Oxford University, the sources said. That does not mean the agency believes there were safety issues associated with any of these vaccines, they added.

"It just shows that the FDA is being thorough," said one of the sources. Further complicating the situation is that the data requested by FDA is in a different format than what the U.S. regulator requires, two of the sources said.

The FDA declined to comment on discussions involving an experimental product. Oxford did not respond to requests for comment. AstraZeneca, in a statement, said: "We are continuing to work with the FDA to facilitate review of the information needed to make a decision regarding resumption of the US trial."

VIRAL VECTOR

All of the vaccines it wants to review use a modified adenovirus as vectors to safely deliver genetic material from the target illnesses - flu, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome, and other diseases - into the body to stimulate an immune system response to fight future infection.

While other vaccine developers have used human adenoviruses for such vaccines, the Oxford researchers chose an adenovirus found in chimpanzees. They felt this would reduce the likelihood that an individual's immune system would attack the vector virus due to prior exposure rather than the intended target.

Reuters reviewed six research papers that detailed safety data of vaccines using the engineered chimpanzee adenovirus called ChAdOx1 for diseases including tuberculosis, prostate cancer and influenza. In one of those trials, one serious adverse event cited by researchers was deemed unrelated to the vaccine.

The type of review being conducted by the FDA is generally intended to scrutinize raw data for other side effects, the sources said. The U.S. government's effort to speed development of a COVID-19 vaccine - and promises by Trump that one could be available prior to the Nov. 3 presidential election - has led to concerns of political interference in the regulatory process at the expense of safety. The FDA has denied this.

AstraZeneca's vaccine development could also be slowed by a change to its clinical trial protocols to show that it has met pre-determined safety and efficacy standards. Independent safety monitors will conduct their first review of the vaccine's safety and effectiveness after 75 trial subjects become infected with COVID-19, up from the original initial review plan after about 40 infections, according to a Reuters review of protocol documents issued in July and amended in mid-September.

The safety monitors could decide to stop the trial if the vaccine proves either highly effective, and therefore should be considered for public use before the trial concludes, or if serious safety problems appear. "Safety is likely to have been a major reason" for the change, said Thomas Lumley, chair of biostatistics at the University of Auckland who was not involved with the study.

AstraZeneca would not say why it had made the change to its protocol.
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You see, the battery is one of the most expensive components of an electric vehicle. The cost perdictates the final price of the car, and LG Chem is one of the top suppliers in this segment because of that. So why is Tesla interested in buying a stake in the battery division of LG Chem  a.k.a. LG Energy Solution?The Korea Times explains it best. Any direct investment will help Tesla purchase qualified batteries without any outstanding risks in terms of supply, and you definitely need a steady supply of batteries when youre selling hundreds of thousands of EVs on a yearly basis. For reference, 2019 was a record-breaking year for the Palo Alto-based automaker at 367,500 vehicles sold worldwide.Tesla had 28 percent of the worldssales in the first half of 2020, hence the pressure to stabilize the supply chain. According to sources in the industry, a stake of 10 percent is enough to put the American automaker in a comfortable position within LG Energy Solution, but still, that is far from the entire picture.The South Korean company is actively researching nickel manganese cobalt and nickel cobalt aluminum chemistries along with lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries. The LFP chemistry may be limited in some respects, but it also has its strong points.To put it as simply as possible, Tesla relies on a steady supply of LFP batteries because cobalt is hard to mine and often mined unethically. The Model 3 electric sedan already features LFP batteries in China, produced by local supplier CATL. Last, but certainly not least, these batteries have brought the starting price of the Model 3 down to 249,900 yuan as opposed to 271,550 yuan ($36,800 and $39,990).Otherwise said, Tesla is diversifying its battery chemistries while making sure that the supply chain will be steady for the foreseeable future. Given the partnerships with CATL and Panasonic, buying a stake in LG Energy Solution seems like a forward-looking move for the world's largest and most hyped manufacturer of electric vehicles.
Deputy Foreign Minister of Ukraine Vasyl Bodnar met with Ambassador of the Netherlands to Ukraine Jennes de Mol on September 30, the ministry's press service has reported.

The main attention of the interlocutors was focused on the development of cooperation in the investigation of the downing of Flight MH17. Bodnar noted Kyivs commitment to make every effort for a fair investigation into the downing of Flight MH17 and bring to justice those responsible for this crime.

The parties also discussed the prospects for cooperation in trade and economy, given the leading role of the Netherlands as one of the largest investors in the Ukrainian economy. An agreement was reached to intensify work on bilateral projects in the field of mine clearance in eastern Ukraine, the development of infrastructure and agro-industrial projects, as well as the implementation of projects for the development of civil society in Ukraine.

The ambassador stressed that Ukraine's progress in promoting reforms and readiness to further adopt European, in particular Dutch, experience in law enforcement and judicial spheres will increase the share of Dutch investments in the Ukrainian economy.

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Proud Boys members including organizer Joe Biggs, center, in green cap, march across the Hawthorne Bridge in Portland, Ore., last year. (Noah Berger / Associated Press)

The far-right organization emboldened by President Trump to stand back and stand by got its start four years ago as a mens drinking club, and has morphed into a gang considered a hate group by experts on extremism  one that the Anti-Defamation League says operates in a way that all but guarantees violence.

The Proud Boys has become a dangerous element on the streets of Portland, Ore., where its leaders say it is dedicated to thwarting Black Lives Matter and the anti-fascist movement known as antifa. This week, its members embraced what they regarded as Trumps endorsement during a presidential debate when he avoided condemning far-right and white supremacist groups.

Joanna Mendelson, associate director of the Anti-Defamation Leagues Center on Extremism, said the Proud Boys is an unconventional far-right faction, bragging of a membership representing a range of ethnic backgrounds.

Proud Boys have carved out this niche for themselves as both this right-wing fight club and a volunteer security force for the GOP, she said. And they purposely organize and act in a manner that will all but guarantee violence.

Joe Biggs, a Florida-based organizer for the male-only group who helped organize a rally Saturday in Portland, said that vilifying antifa and the social justice protests erupting nightly in that city is key to his group's national strategy.

Portland is the main center of insurrection around the country, Biggs said, adding that his members were prepared to return if we continue to see these insurrections going unchecked.

The debate night statement by Trump  who said antifa and left-wing activists were a mounting threat to American cities, and that the Proud Boys should "stand back and stand by" was celebrated on social media channels frequented by neo-Nazis and white supremacists. Commenters regarded the presidents remark as an endorsement and a call to action.

Trump sought to walk back his statement Wednesday after criticism from fellow Republicans. "I don't know who the Proud Boys are," he said, responding to a reporter's question on the White House lawn before departing on a campaign trip to Minnesota. "I can only say they have to stand down, let law enforcement do their work."

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Started in 2016 by Vice Media co-founder Gavin McInnes as a "men's drinking club," the Proud Boys bills itself as a group of Western chauvinists who believe in free speech, gun rights and closed borders and oppose what they describe as racial guilt and political correctness.

They have become a mercurial, hard-to-define, flag-waving shock force for conservatives. The Southern Poverty Law Center considers them a hate group, noting their leaders and members "regularly spout white nationalist memes and maintain affiliations with known extremists."

Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio, left, and organizer Joe Biggs congratulate each other after a rally in Portland, Ore., last year. (John Rudoff / AFP/Getty Images)

The group has organized rallies in Portland and other cities, calling on police to be more aggressive against left-wing activists. Members of the group participated in a pro-Trump truck caravan that turned violent in downtown Portland on Aug. 29, when a follower of another right-wing group, Patriot Prayer, was fatally shot.

Saturday's rally in Portland attracted far fewer far-right activists than the thousands the Proud Boys had predicted. Several hundred far-right demonstrators, many in helmets and body armor and some openly carrying guns, turned out in a park.

Biggs claimed that the rally succeeded by forcing Gov. Kate Brown to declare a state of emergency. The U.S. Marshals Service deputized more than 50 Portland police officers on Saturday for a year, giving them powers that enable federal prosecutors to bring charges with stiffer penalties.

"That's kind of cool because they can do their job now," Biggs said Wednesday. "We're just sick and tired of the lawlessness for 100-plus days in Portland. There has to be some accountability."

Biggs, 36, of Daytona Beach, Fla., has a LinkedIn page that lists him as having served as a U.S. Army staff sergeant for 10 years. Banned along with his organization from Twitter and Facebook, he works for Censored.TV, a subscription channel that features hosts including McInnes.

After Tuesday's debate, Biggs wrote on the Parler social media platform that "President Trump told the Proud Boys to stand by because someone needs to deal with antifa ... well sir! we're ready!!"

He spoke with relish of his organization's role in Portland. "It's a joke that it took a men's drinking club to help restore law and order," he said.

He accused Brown and Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler of failing to crack down. "They've emboldened antifa to such a point that it's now inspiring insurrection around the country," he said, adding that the left-wing movement is "a great white shark that has a taste of blood and is trying to get more."

Brown said a day before the rally that the Proud Boys and other participants aimed to intimidate, instigate and inflame. "We have seen what happens when armed vigilantes take matters into their own hands: Weve seen it in Charlottesville. Weve seen it in Kenosha. And, unfortunately, we have even seen it here in Portland," she told reporters.

On Sunday, she thanked citizens of Oregon "for not rising to the bait when the Proud Boys came from out of town to express their hateful views."

Wheeler said that local and state police had collaborated to ensure a mostly peaceful day. "Our community showed up in great numbers, standing peacefully against white supremacy without giving hate groups the fight they came for," he said in a statement issued Wednesday.

Meanwhile on Wednesday, Portland police arrested Alan Swinney, a regular at Proud Boys rallies, on suspicion of a dozen criminal counts including assault, menacing and unlawful use of mace and a weapon.

According to an indictment, Swinney, 50, of Texas, pointed a revolver at someone in a crowd of anti-fascist protesters during a Proud Boys rally and used a paintball gun to injure someone.

Times staff writer Brian Contreras in Washington, D.C., contributed to this report.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Doctors including the acting chief medical officer have recommended tightening rules on visitors to private households across Ireland (Brian Lawless/PA)

Doctors have recommended rules on visiting private households be tightened across Ireland after more than 400 new coronavirus infections were detected.

The public health team advising ministers urged that a maximum of six people from a single household be allowed to go to another house, in all parts of the country.

They said people should be able to continue to meet socially in other settings but only with those from one other household.

The Government will have to make a decision on any recommendations made by its disease experts.

Four more people have died with Covid-19, according to Thursdays official figures.

Sometimes you might forget, but every one of us is still at risk from #COVID19. Every time we do the right thing, were protecting ourselves & the people around us.

Wear face coverings in shops & on public transport and if you cough or sneeze - cover it or have a tissue handy. pic.twitter.com/mA6Za6zB8I  HSE Ireland (@HSELive) October 1, 2020

Acting chief medical officer Dr Ronan Glynn told RTE: We are trying to give people the opportunity to adhere to the public health advice and try to turn the tide.

We have seen significant increases; we are very worried about what we are seeing.

Donegal and Dublin have already seen extra restrictions and those will remain for the time being.

A total of 442 new cases were reported across the country on Thursday. Most were in Dublin, followed by Cork and Donegal.

Dr Glynn said one cluster in Cork had produced 57 infections as he appealed for people to cut down on socialising.

There are 119 patients in hospital, with 20 in critical care.

Thirty-two people died with coronavirus in September.

We do understand the growing frustration among the public as we continue to live with continued uncertainty Paul Reid, HSE

Officials from the National Public Health Advisory Team (Nphet), meeting on Thursday, did not recommend that any other counties be moved up a level in the Governments phased plan for dealing with Covid-19.

The Irish Government increased restrictions in the capital and Donegal last month and these include a ban on indoor social gatherings and a requirement for pubs and restaurants to only serve food outdoors, while travel in and out of the county has been limited to work, education and essential purposes.

Meanwhile, HSE chief executive Paul Reid said that of 4,300 tests conducted in 183 schools across the country, 84 cases had been detected and identified.

In one case cited by the HSE, it was discovered that the virus had been passed between two students who swapped desks.

Mr Reid urged people not to demonise any particular sector or social group in the battle against Covid-19.

He told a briefing on Thursday that he understood the public demand for a new magic strategy that could target a particular group and allow others to continue their lives as normal  but said no such strategy exists.

We do understand the growing frustration among the public as we continue to live with continued uncertainty.

This evening Dr Breda Smyth @HSELive showed this slide.



It demonstrates how fast #COVID19 spread between people over the course of one weekend - and how important it is to stay home if you're unwell or a close contact of a case.



Make a plan today to limit your social contacts. pic.twitter.com/KtL3965bLP  Department of Health (@roinnslainte) September 30, 2020

We can definitely sense a relentless demand from the public to find the new magic strategy or the new best solutions in terms of dealing with the virus.

Id make a special plea to the public just to deter from blaming certain sectors of the economy or certain elements of society in terms of the spread of the virus. 

He noted that in the past the blame has moved from transport, to meat plants to direct provisions centres, and indeed, more recently, to schools and also young people.

He added: From our perspective this actually does nothing other than add to a stigmatisation to some quarters of society.

The reality is that the virus spreads rapidly in the community as we meet and then transfers rapidly, like wildfire into our homes. Thats the area we all need to continuously, relentlessly look at.
The Ukrainian delegation to the Trilateral Contact Group (TCG) on the settlement of the situation in Donbas supported the position of Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office in Ukraine and in the Trilateral Contact Group (TCG), Ambassador Heidi Grau who was forced to suspend the meeting on Wednesday, September 30, due to the violation of the confidentiality regime by the Russian side, a source related to the negotiation process told Interfax-Ukraine.

"As it turned out during the meeting, the Russian side was conducting an unauthorized audio and video recording of the TCG's work, which it announced during the meeting. The head of the Russian delegation, in particular, also announced his intention to unilaterally release audio and video recordings of the talks," an interlocutor of the agency said.

According to him, Grau proposed to take a break in the work of the TCG and hold an extraordinary meeting to agree on a code of conduct and information policy, common for all TCG participants.

The Ukrainian side supported this position of the OSCE representative, saying that no one has the right to violate the principles of the TCG activities, single-handedly carrying out actions that contradict the agreements reached and international practice of negotiations, in particular confidential ones.

"At the same time, the Ukrainian delegation is open for joint discussion of the further format of the TCG work. The Ukrainian side insists on the exclusive mandate and right of the OSCE to moderate the negotiation process. The Ukrainian side is ready to continue working in a 24/7 format, but strictly adheres to the OSCE position on the format of the TCG negotiations," the interlocutor of the agency said.
US Defense Secretary Mark Esper signed a 10-year military cooperation deal with Tunis Wednesday during his first stop on a regional tour, hailing US-Tunisia collaboration over the conflict in neighbouring Libya.

The past decade has seen growing cooperation between the Pentagon and Tunisia, particularly on counter-terror training and securing the North African country's long border with Libya, where jihadist groups operate and world powers back rival sides in a complex war.

"We look forward to expanding this relationship to help Tunisia protect its maritime ports and land borders, deter terrorism and keep the corrosive efforts of autocratic regimes out of your country," Esper said in a speech after meeting President Kais Saied.

Speaking at a cemetery in Carthage housing the remains of over 2,800 American soldiers, mostly killed in World War II, he warned of the worldwide threat posed by "violent extremists".

Esper also accused US rivals China and Russia of continuing "to intimidate and coerce their neighbours while expanding their authoritarian influence worldwide, including on this continent."

He said Moscow and Beijing's "malign, coercive, and predatory behaviour" aimed to "undermine African institutions".

Washington in 2015 classified Tunisia as a Major Non-NATO Ally, allowing for reinforced military cooperation.

The two sides regularly hold joint exercises, and since 2011 Washington has invested more than $1 billion in the Tunisian military, according to the US Africa Command, Africom.

The deal signed Wednesday, full details of which have not been disclosed, lasts a decade and covers training and after-sales service of sophisticated American weapons, said officials in Esper's entourage.

Tunisia in 2016 denied a Washington Post report that it had allowed the US to operate drones from its territory for missions in Libya against the Islamic State jihadist group.

But a court martial in 2017 in a case of sexual harassment by an American officer, reported in the US defence press, publicly confirmed the presence of an American squadron operating drones from within a Tunisian base in the northern region of Bizerte.

New US interest

The US has "regained interest" in longtime allies Tunisia and Morocco, Tunisian analyst Youssef Cherif said, citing the growing clout of jihadist groups in Libya and the Sahel region since the fall of former Libyan dictator Moamer Kadhafi.

"But Tunisia does not seem to have given its approval to use its airspace and its territory to conduct attacks," he told AFP.

In May, the head of Africom said the US would send more troops to the country in light of the deteriorating situation in Libya, triggering an outcry in Tunisia.

Africom later clarified that it was only deploying "a small training unit" that would not engage in combat missions, and the Tunisian government said there were no plans for an American base in the country.

Esper also met his Tunisian counterpart Ibrahim Bartagi and gave him a replica of a pistol belonging to George Washington, a military leader who became the first president of the United States.

Presenting the gift, Esper said it was to remind Bartagi of the "importance of the civilian control of the military, the importance of an apolitical military."

Esper was set to visit neighbouring Algeria on Thursday, becoming the first US defense secretary to do so since Donald Rumsfeld in 2006.

Esper will then head to Morocco, the other US Major Non-NATO Ally in the Maghreb region.
Sacha Baron Cohen posed for an extremely risque poster for the upcoming Borat 2 movie, ahead of its release on October 23 on Amazon Prime.

In a nod to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, Sacha, 48, donned a face covering in place of the character's now-iconic, neon green mankini.

The highly-anticipated sequel to the actor's wildly successful 2006 comedy Borat, will premiere on Amazon after bosses bought the worldwide rights to the film and the new poster boasts the slogan: 'Wear mask. Save live'.

Ahem! Sacha Baron Cohen posed for an extremely risque poster for the upcoming Borat 2 movie, ahead of its release on October 23 on Amazon Prime

The sequel is titled Borat: Gift of Pornographic Monkey to Vice Premiere Mikhael Pence to Make Benefit Recently Diminished Nation of Kazakhstan, according to a now-deleted listing at the Writers Guild of America website (via The Film Stage).

There were first hints that a sequel was happening in August, when Cohen was spotted in his iconic Borat suit driving an old pickup truck.

Earlier this month, Collider reported the Borat sequel has already been filmed, and even screened for unspecified industry types, after the crew resumed production as soon as coronavirus restrictions were eased.

Deadline reports Sacha 'risked his life' while filming and had to wear a bulletproof vest on two different shooting days.

Shocker! The green mankini worn by the character became a pop culture favourite and is often spotted being used as a fancy dress costume

He's back! The highly-anticipated sequel to the actor's wildly successful 2006 comedy Borat, will premiere on Amazon after bosses bought the worldwide rights to the film and the new poster boasts the slogan: 'Wear mask. Save live' (pictured in 2006)

MailOnline has contacted the comedian's representatives and Amazon for comment.

While the title has yet to be confirmed with any official marketing materials, it does fall in line with the full title of the original film: Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan.

The name suggests that Pence will be a target, while former New York City mayor Rudy Giuliani will also make an appearance.

Return: The film became a cult classic

Sequel: There were first hints that a sequel was happening in August, when Cohen was spotted in his iconic Borat suit driving an old pickup truck

The title also insinuates that Pence has ties to Russia, calling him 'Mikhael Pence' instead of Mike Pence, and giving him the Russian title of Vice Premiere instead of Vice President.

The original 2006 film featured Cohen playing his Borat character, which he first debuted on his hit TV series Da Ali G Show.

Borat was a TV reporter from Kazakhstan, who was sent to America with his producer Azamat (Ken Davitan).

While Borat is sent to report on the American way of life, he quickly becomes obsessed with the old TV series Baywatch, as he begins a quest to find and marry star Pamela Anderson.

Quite the character: The original 2006 film featured Cohen playing his Borat character, which he first debuted on his hit TV series Da Ali G Show

The now-deleted Writer's Guild of America post also revealed that several different writers worked on the Borat sequel script.

The screenplay is credited to Sacha Baron Cohen, Anthony Hines, Dan Swimer, Peter Baynham, Erica Rivinoja, Dan Mazer, Jena Friedman, and Lee Kern with story by Sacha Baron Cohen, Anthony Hines, Dan Swimer, and Nina Pedrad.

Hines, Baynham and Mazer all got screenplay credit on the original Borat movie, with Cohen, Baynham, Hines and Todd Phillips getting story credit.

Swimer, Kern and Hines have worked with Cohen on his hit Showtime series This Is America, while Rivinoja wrote for South Park and worked on movies such as Girls Trip, Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs and Trolls.

Friedman had written for Late Night with David Letterman and The Conners, while also acting in films like Palm Springs, while Nina Pedrad has written on 30 Rock, New Girl and Will & Grace.

Larry Charles directed the first Borat movie, though it isn't clear if he directs the sequel.
Kayla Kniepmann has joined Carrollton Bank as an Agricultural Banking Officer.

Kniepmann has been helping farmers for 10 years, working at Farm Credit Illinois in Highland.

Were excited that Kayla is joining our bank, said Tom Hough, CEO of Carrollton Bank. She brings excellent experience and a real passion for helping farmers and agribusinesses.

My husband and I operate a farm in Bond County, said Kniepmann, so I am familiar with the challenges and needs farm families face in their operations.

Weve been working with farmers since the 1870s, said Hough. More farmers are turning to us than ever before. Attracting an ag banker like Kayla helps us do more of what they need done.

Kniepmann has an agricultural and consumer economics degree from the University of Illinois.

Carrollton Bank is a privately held, employee-owned bank with $2.4 billion in assets and 12 offices. The bank is led by Tom Hough, the fifth generation in an unbroken string of family members to lead the bank since 1877
Coronavirus LIVE Updates: Amid declining coronavirus cases and deaths, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh today ordered a slew of relaxations, including lifting of night curfew and an end to Sunday lockdown, while directing the police to strictly enforce wearing of masks and other safety norms. Other relaxations include increasing the limit for marriage functions and funerals to 100, in line with the central government guidelines, as well as easing limit of three persons in a car and 50% capacity in buses, subject to condition of windows being open.

Congress Rajya Sabha MP Ahmed Patel today said he has tested positive for the coronavirus infection. "I have tested positive for Covid19," Patel said on his Twitter account. "I request all those who came in close contact with me recently to self-isolate."

US biotech firm Moderna won't seek an emergency use authorization for its coronavirus vaccine before November 25, its CEO has told the Financial Times. The news deals a blow to President Donald Trump's hopes of having an injection ready before the election to give his campaign a much-needed boost. Stephane Bancel told the newspaper: "November 25 is the time we will have enough safety data to be able to put into an EUA file that we would send to the FDA (Food and Drug Administration)  assuming that the safety data is good, i.e. a vaccine is deemed to be safe." Trump, whose approval has taken a hit over his handling of the Covid-19 crisis, has frequently hinted a vaccine could be ready before the November 3 vote. This has raised concern among experts that his administration may attempt to interfere with the regulatory process for political reasons.

The Republican repeated his claim on Tuesday night, during a debate with his Democratic rival, former vice president Joe Biden. "It's a possibility that we'll have the answer before November 1," he said. Moderna's vaccine is one of 11 experimental vaccines in final stage trials. Another is being developed by Pfizer, whose CEO Albert Bourla has taken the position that his company may have a clear answer about whether their shot works by October. Most experts are skeptical of the claim, believing that the ongoing trials will not have sufficient statistical data to prove the drug's safety and effectiveness by that time. Speaking to the Washington Post on Tuesday, Bourla denied he was attempting to curry favor with the president by making his October claim. "For me, the election day is an artificial day. The end of October is an artificial day. This is how we operate. If we can bring it earlier, we will," he said.

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Meanwhile, The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has broadened its investigation of a serious illness in AstraZeneca Plc's Covid-19 vaccine study and will look at data from earlier trials of similar vaccines developed by the same scientists, three sources familiar with the details told Reuters. AstraZeneca's large, late-stage U.S. trial has remained on hold since September 6, after a study participant in Britain fell ill with what was believed to be a rare spinal inflammatory disorder called transverse myelitis.

The widened scope of the FDA probe raises the likelihood of additional delays for what has been one of the most advanced COVID-19 vaccine candidates in development. The requested data was expected to arrive this week, after which the FDA would need time to analyze it, two of the sources said.

Effective vaccines are seen as essential to help end a pandemic that has killed more than one million people worldwide.

The administration of President Donald Trump has pledged $1.2 billion to support development of the AstraZeneca vaccine and secure 300 million doses for the United States. Other leading companies in the U.S. vaccine race include Pfizer Inc, Moderna Inc and Johnson & Johnson.

Regulators in the UK, Brazil, India and South Africa have allowed AstraZeneca to resume its clinical trials there.

The FDA, however, wants to determine whether similar side effects emerged in trials of other vaccines designed by AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine partner, researchers at Oxford University, the sources said. That does not mean the agency believes there were safety issues associated with any of these vaccines, they added. "It just shows that the FDA is being thorough," said one of the sources.

Further complicating the situation is that the data requested by FDA is in a different format than what the U.S. regulator requires, two of the sources said.

The FDA declined to comment on discussions involving an experimental product. Oxford did not respond to requests for comment. AstraZeneca, in a statement, said: "We are continuing to work with the FDA to facilitate review of the information needed to make a decision regarding resumption of the US trial."

All of the vaccines it wants to review use a modified adenovirus as vectors to safely deliver genetic material from the target illnesses - flu, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome, and other diseases - into the body to stimulate an immune system response to fight future infection.

While other vaccine developers have used human adenoviruses for such vaccines, the Oxford researchers chose an adenovirus found in chimpanzees. They felt this would reduce the likelihood that an individual's immune system would attack the vector virus due to prior exposure rather than the intended target.

Reuters reviewed six research papers that detailed safety data of vaccines using the engineered chimpanzee adenovirus called ChAdOx1 for diseases including tuberculosis, prostate cancer and influenza.

In one of those trials, one serious adverse event cited by researchers was deemed unrelated to the vaccine.

The type of review being conducted by the FDA is generally intended to scrutinize raw data for other side effects, the sources said.

The U.S. government's effort to speed development of a COVID-19 vaccine - and promises by Trump that one could be available prior to the Nov. 3 presidential election - has led to concerns of political interference in the regulatory process at the expense of safety. The FDA has denied this.

AstraZeneca's vaccine development could also be slowed by a change to its clinical trial protocols to show that it has met pre-determined safety and efficacy standards.

Independent safety monitors will conduct their first review of the vaccine's safety and effectiveness after 75 trial subjects become infected with COVID-19, up from the original initial review plan after about 40 infections, according to a Reuters review of protocol documents issued in July and amended in mid-September.

The safety monitors could decide to stop the trial if the vaccine proves either highly effective, and therefore should be considered for public use before the trial concludes, or if serious safety problems appear.

"Safety is likely to have been a major reason" for the change, said Thomas Lumley, chair of biostatistics at the University of Auckland who was not involved with the study.

AstraZeneca would not say why it had made the change to its protocol.
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Boris Johnson is facing a coronavirus revolt in the north today as the elected mayor of Middlesbrough vowed to 'defy' new lockdown measures, accusing ministers of 'ignorance' after they brought in strict new measures for its population.

Independent Andy Preston lashed out after Health Secretary Matt Hancock told MPs the town, along with Liverpool, Hartlepool and Warrington would face the same curbs as the North East.

In a video message Mr Preston said they went further than he and other local politicians had lobbied for, and in what is believed to be a first for a local politician, rejected the measures outlined in the Commons.

Middlesbrough and Hartlepool councils had asked for a ban on households mixing in their own homes. But Mr Hancock announced it would also be illegal for households in those boroughs to mix in a public setting such as a pub.

'I have to tell you I think this measure has been introduced based on factual inaccuracies and a monstrous and frightening lack of communication, and ignorance,' Mr Preston said in a video posted on Twitter.

'I do not accept the statement at all. I do not accept these measures. We need to talk to government, they need to understand our local knowledge, expertise and ability to get things done, and preserve jobs and well-being.

'We are really disappointed. As things stand we defy the Government and we do not accept these measures.

'We need to get Covid under control and we need to work with people to find a way of preserving jobs and mental health.'

As head of the local council Mr Preston has no official powers to over-rule the decision taken by ministers. But he could, in theory, prevent council staff from helping to enforce the pub closures and household meeting ban - though there has been no suggestion yet that he would.

He posted his statement on his Facebook page, with Middlesbrough residents flocking to express their opinion.

Simon Rylander said: 'Really proud and happy you're standing up for our town and region Andy! What do we do in the meantime though?'

Craig Hatton wrote: 'Well done for speaking your mind! This government hasn't got a grasp on reality.'

Graham Hadfield added: 'I share your frustration Andy but I fear Hancock will simply continue to close his ears to logic. He has been out of his depth since the start and is just getting worse.'

The confirmation comes despite Mr Hancock hailing 'early' indications that the nationwide Rule of Six and 10pm pubs curfew are already bringing cases under control - and downgrading the swingeing measures in place in Bolton.

Meanwhile, there are signs that ministers are scrambling to simplify the rules after even the premier became muddled this week. A 'traffic light' system could be introduced to show what restrictions are in place for different regions, with three tiers of intensity.

There are hopes could help free up some parts of the South that have dramatically lower rates of infection than the North.

In other developments today:

The UK recorded 7,108 more coronavirus cases and another 71 deaths yesterday  including a three-month high of seven in Scotland;

There are signs the government is considering simplifying the lockdown curbs by introducing a traffic light system for different areas, with three tiers of varying intensity;

The Health Secretary batted away calls for a rethink on the 10pm pubs curfew in England, despite complaints that it has made the situation worse by encouraging house parties and drinking on the street;

Mr Hancock is facing a backlash after it emerged the government has not carried out its own research on whether Vitamin D could help people ward off coronavirus;

Work and Pensions Secretary Therese Coffey has admitted her department is planning on the basis there could be four million unemployed in the coming months - although she stressed she hoped numbers would not go that high;

A Tory backlash is growing at the PM's advisers including Dominic Cummings after a chaotic fortnight;

Ministers are looking again at whether Vitamin D can be useful in the battle against coronavirus.

The Bank of England's chief economist Andy Haldane called for optimism on the country's prospects, warning that a 'Chicken Licken' attitude could harm the recovery;

Ministers fear that the public is showing increasing signs of 'lockdown fatigue' as the pandemic drags on and the rules become more complicated.

Independent Andy Preston lashed out after Health Secretary Matt Hancock told MPs the town, along with Liverpool, Hartlepool and Warrington would face the same curbs as the North East

'There's no way people are going to stay at home': Furious residents of Middlesbrough join mayor in protest against lockdown measures Furious locals in Middlesbrough today backed mayor Andy Preston in his defiance of the Government's new coronavirus restrictions. Sarah Best, 28, who owns the Sherlock's and Dr Watson's bars in the North Yorkshire town, said she had feared she would have to close her doors in as little as three weeks under the latest rules. She said: 'When people can only go the pub with members of their own household it's obviously going to reduce trade even more. 'The 10pm curfew has been bad enough and it doesn't work. People gather in the street and can't get taxis because everyone has to leave at once. Landlady Sarah Best, 28, said she had feared she would have to close her doors in as little as three weeks under the latest rules 'We're just hanging on and if things don't change I might have to close the doors in three weeks, that's how bad it is. I really think customers will rebel, especially if the mayor is backing us. 'We'll listen to Andy, we get more support and back from the mayor than we do from government. How do you enforce this rule anyway? I'm not going to be asking customers for utility bills.' Nicola Brogan and Paula Hoare, both 27, added the rules are now 'so confused that it's impossible to enforce' them. 'It's crazy that we can't see relatives who need to see people to stay in touch but you can come down to the pub,' Ms Hoare said. Nicola Brogan (left) and Paula Hoare (right), both 27, added the rules are now 'so confused that it's impossible to enforce' them 'The mayor is sticking up for the town where there is already massive poverty.' Ms Brogan added: 'I worked with the mayor on a charity project and he's a very well liked and respected guy. I think people will listen to what he thinks more than the government.' Liam Watson, 24, said: 'There's no way people are going to stay at home and not go to the pub when you've got the mayor saying 'defy the ban.' 'Good for him. He's sticking up for people and trying to stop businesses going bust and if it comes down to it I'd rather listen to our local leader than some muppet at Westminster. They don't know anything about us.' However, Craig Kevin, 47, who works in a fast food stall, said Mr Preston had merely 'added to the confusion' with his video statement. 'Andy Preston has added to the confusion and I think people will just decide to carry on as normal because they don't actually believe any of them,' he said. 'Boris Johnson didn't even know the rules as they apply to the North East when he was asked the other day so what chance do the public have, especially when national and local Government are saying different things.' Nathaniel Lawton, 42, was today having a drink with friends outside the town's Swatter's Carr Nathaniel Lawton, 42, was today having a drink with friends outside the town's Swatter's Carr. He said: 'It's funny to see Andy Preston saying 'defy the law' when he was the one who was asking for stricter rules in the first place. 'He decided MIddlesbrough needed restrictions but he hasn't got the ones he wanted which he should maybe have seen coming. 'There will always be those who adhere to the rules and those who don't. No matter what anybody says, whether it's the government or the mayor, people will decide the law doesn't apply to them. 'It's being spread anyway through offices and schools so I can't see the restrictions making that much difference.' Advertisement

Results from the largest Covid-19 study in England found the R-rate fell from 1.7 to around 1.1 last month.

But the director of the study, by Imperial College London and Ipsos Mori, said the interim findings from 80,000 participants 'reinforced the need for protective measures' to help extinguish the virus.

Mr Hancock told the Commons: 'The study published today shows us hope that we can crack this.'

However, he again defied calls for the 10pm curfew on pubs to be lifted amid claims it is doing 'more harm than good'. Mr Hancock's positive message on the findings of the study contrasted sharply with the grim message from Boris Johnson, Chris Whitty and Patrick Vallance at a Downing Street press conference last night.

The PM and his senior medical and science advisers warned that the outbreak was 'going in the wrong direction' - even though it is understood they were aware of the latest Imperial findings in advance.

Liverpool had been braced for more measures to curb a recent rise in infections that has left it with the highest rolling seven-day rate of new cases at 258 per 100,000, while nearby Knowsley is second at 262.

In addition, Luton, Wakefield, Chester, East and West Cheshire, Barrow-in-Furness and Rotherham have been added to the Government's watchlist as 'areas of concern'.

And Sheffield has been moved up to an area of 'enhanced support', suggesting it could be the next to be placed in lockdown.

Areas of concern are the focus of targeted actions to reduce the prevalence of coronavirus, for example receiving additional testing in care homes and increased community engagement with high-risk groups.

Areas for enhanced support are those at a medium-high risk of intervention where there is a more detailed plan, agreed with the national authorities.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer called for a 'rapid review' of the local lockdown strategy and urged the Government to consider whether the 10pm curfew should remain.

'We have supported these restrictions, but we have now got - after this morning's announcement - over 50 areas in local restrictions and over the weeks and months only one area has come out of these restrictions,' he said.

'So we need a strategy, a road map, people need to have hope that this is going to work.'

He told reporters at Westminster that the Government needed to 'massively improve' the way it communicated and provide economic support for areas at the same time restrictions were imposed.

'I think we need a rapid review of the local lockdowns because what we are seeing is that in some areas in lockdown the infection rates are going up, not down.

'That's worrying and there needs to be a review into that. In other areas they have been in local lockdown for months and so there needs to be a rapid review - what's working, what isn't working, what does the science tell us about that.'

Speaking in the Commons, Mr Hancock was repeatedly challenged over the blanket 10pm curfew on pubs and restaurants in England.

There were complaints that people have been causing issues by piling out of venues and going to the supermarket for more alcohol, or having house parties instead.

But Mr Hancock said: 'Of course, we keep this under review and of course we're constantly looking at how we can improve these policies, but I think we've got to look at both sides of the evidence to try to get this right.'

He added: 'We know that sustained contact, especially in crowded, poorly ventilated spaces is a driver of infection and pubs and bars an obvious risk.

'So I heard what he said about the 10pm rule, but my concerns relate to everybody leaving the pub at the same time.'

Warrington Borough Council leader Russ Bowden said: 'These restrictions are disappointing for our town but are, again, a necessary response in helping us to drive down the number of case of coronavirus in Warrington.

'Now more than ever, we need to do all we can to stop the spread of the virus.'

He added: 'I'm aware the Government has announced a support package for affected councils as part of the announcement of these new restrictions.

'I await the detail on what this funding could mean but it's clear that, as part of these strict new measures, we need to do all we can to support affected businesses - not least our hospitality industry which will, again, be seriously impacted by these new restrictions.

'We will, therefore, continue to work closely with Government and press them for the support our hospitality sector needs during this increasingly difficult period.'

Earlier, Liverpool Mayor Joe Anderson called for a two-week 'circuit-breaker' lockdown to restrict the virus from spreading.

But his colleague, Metro Mayor Steve Rotherham, repeated his opposition to the proposal, which he insisted was never discussed as an option when he spoke to Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty.

The elected mayor of Middlesbrough said he was prepared to defy the Government and reject new coronavirus measures imposed on the town in what was thought to be a first for an authority figure.

Independent Andy Preston was furious with the new rules which go further than he and his counterparts in Hartlepool had lobbied for earlier in the week.

Simon Clarke, Conservative MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, had been opposed to extra measures and spoke in the Commons earlier about the need for a clear exit strategy.

In response to the new rules, he said: 'I would like to personally thank Mr Hancock for ensuring that a clear, evidence-led exit strategy has been included in the measures imposed on Middlesbrough.

'I was clear in my opposition to any further local restrictions at this time, especially seen as the latest national restrictions had not had even a week to bed in.

'And while I respectfully disagreed with the decision of Middlesbrough mayor Andy Preston to request a local lockdown in Middlesbrough, I am in no doubt that he acted in good faith in making this request of the Government.

'So now we are where we are, our focus must shift to protecting the most vulnerable members of our society.'

Andy McDonald, Labour MP for Middlesbrough, said the new measures were 'inevitable'.

He said: 'I've said before that no one welcomes further restrictions, but we on Teesside sit next to seven neighbouring North East local authorities where tighter restrictions have been imposed for some time now because of worryingly high rates of Covid-19.

The weekly infection rate in Liverpool now stands at 258.4 per 100,000 people

The north west of England, which has seen areas such as Burnley and Liverpool (pictured today) placed under local restrictions, had the highest levels of infection while the number of infections

'It's only 13 miles from Middlesbrough to Sedgefield in County Durham and the virus is clearly in circulation right across the North East region at levels that are concerning and the virus pays no heed to the local authority borders between County Durham and the Tees Valley local authority areas.'

Andy Preston, the independent Middlesbrough mayor and philanthropist who clashed with 'Labour snowflakes' over immigration and raised 3 million through his charity foundation Middlesbrough mayor Andy Preston has been catapulted into the national coronavirus debate after he launched a stunning revolt against the government's new lockdown rules in the town. The independent politician launched his astonishing mutiny after Health Secretary Matt Hancock told MPs the town, along with Liverpool, Hartlepool and Warrington would face the same curbs as the North East. In a video message Mr Preston said they went further than he and other local politicians had lobbied for, and in what is believed to be a first for a local politician, rejected the measures outlined in the Commons. Mr Preston was elected mayor in 2019, having first stood and narrowly lost in 2015. The businessman was previously a high-profile philanthropist in Teesside before going into politics. The first charity he founded, in 2011, was Middlesbrough and Teesside Philanthropic Foundation which raises funds for communities in the area. The Foundation is supported by a number of local businesses including Middlesbrough Football Club. A few years later, Mr Preston launched a new charity called CEO Sleepout which holds events across the UK to raise funds to combat homelessness and poverty. In December 2016, launched a restaurant, The Fork in the Road, in Middlesbrough in an attempt to provide employment opportunities for former prisoners, recovering addicts and the long term unemployed. He stepped down from his foundation after being elected, having raised three million during his tenure. Mr Preston was previously a staunch Labour member before standing as an independent in 2015. He had a run in with the Labour Party in 2019, when he was accused of 'dog whistle racism' after making a post on Facebook titled 'Immigration Can Bring Big Benefits and Big Negatives'. Andy McDonald, MP for Middlesbrough, labelled Preston's post 'irresponsible and dangerous'. However, the mayor was heavily supported by the public and an online poll suggested that 89% of residents agreed with his post. In it, he said that he was '100% certain that recent and rapid immigration to some parts of central Middlesbrough is causing new problems and a clash of cultures is developing.' Dismissing his critics in the Labour party, Mr Preston later said: 'If professional politicians and some snowflakes aren't happy with me then that's fine. I'll keep sticking up for people - regardless of what abuse politicians and their lackeys send me.' Advertisement

At the press conference last night, the PM dismissed pressure from many Tories to change strategy and focus on protecting jobs, saying he would not 'throw in the sponge'.

There has been increasing anxiety - including in Cabinet - about following the ultra-cautious approach from Prof Whitty and Sir Patrick. One senior minister told MailOnline that the government was now 'talking more widely to people with different views'.

While the rate of infection appears to be falling, the study, commissioned by the Department of Health, found that of the volunteers tested between September 18-26, one in 200 people had coronavirus.

It also revealed the virus to be spreading more among young people, while simultaneously laying bare the North-South divide, pointing to the North West as the epicentre of the UK's outbreak.

Professor Paul Elliott, director of the programme at Imperial from the School of Public Health, said: 'While our latest findings show some early evidence that the growth of new cases may have slowed, suggesting efforts to control the infection are working, the prevalence of infection is the highest that we have recorded to date.

'This reinforces the need for protective measures to limit the spread of the disease and the public's adherence to these, which will be vital to minimise further significant illness and loss of life from Covid-19.'

Asked whether the Prime Minister and his advisers would have seen this study before their downbeat TV briefing yesterday, Professor Elliot said 'yes'.

'We report in weekly to Government and so they are aware of these statistics from our study,' he said this morning. 'Clearly there are a range of stats that are considered by Government and we're just one area.'

But he did not agree that the tone of the briefing should have been more optimistic, and said: 'I thought the messaging was very good yesterday. We've got to really quite high levels of the virus.

'One in 200 people who are walking the streets today, on average, [would] test positive for the virus. It's not dependent on the testing system [and] it's not just symptomatic people.

'I think people have begun to hear the message since the beginning of September. The rate of increase of the virus at the beginning for September was alarming now we've got to high rates we've really got to do something about it and that was the message yesterday. The rate of rise may have slowed and that's the first step.'

Professor Steven Riley agreed and added: 'This [study] is entirely consistent with the messaging yesterday  100 per cent consistent with the messaging. All the public health measures that are in place right now are absolutely crucial

HOW HAS THE CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK CHANGED? The REACT study, run by Imperial College London and funded by the Department of Health, has been tracking England's Covid-19 outbreak throughout the summer. The prevalence of the virus is based on what proportion of people tested have a positive result, and is used to work out what percentage of people in the country currently have the virus. This is how the data shows the change in England's outbreak: Round three: July 24 - August 11 Prevalence: 0.04% (one in 2,500)

Estimated R rate: 1.3

Tests done: 161,560

Positive results: 54 Round four: August 20 - September 8 Prevalence: 0.13% (one in 769)

Estimated R rate: 1.7

Tests done: 154,325

Positive results: 137 Round five: September 18 - 25 Prevalence: 0.55% (one in 181)

Estimated R rate: 1.06

Tests done: 84,610 (ongoing)

Positive results: 363 The most recent round of results from REACT provides estimates for the prevalence of the virus in different regions across England as follows: North West: 0.86% (1 in 116 people)

North East: 0.78% (1 in 128)

Yorkshire & Humber: 0.54% (1 in 185)

London: 0.49% (1 in 204)

East Midlands: 0.44% (1 in 227)

West Midlands: 0.38% (1 in 263)

East of England: 0.31% (1 in 323)

South West: 0.25% (1 in 400)

South East: 0.24% (1 in 417) Advertisement

'If we were reporting it we would very much comment on the prevalence. It [the messaging] has to go negative for us to avoid substantial numbers of hospitalisations and deaths.'

Politicians in the region met with Mr Hancock last night, with the final decision taken after a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Boris Johnson this morning.

Mr Anderson said measures to restrict travel, in place in some areas of Wales, had not been put forward, but he believed the Government was considering measures to ensure restaurants only take bookings.

Environment Secretary George Eustice told BBC Breakfast: 'I know that there are some discussions, I understand, that are going on about the situation in Liverpool, but no decisions have been taken yet.

'It's not really possible for me to say what they may or may not do since I think there's currently dialogue between health officials and the local council there.'

Halton MP Derek Twigg said he and other local MPs had 'demanded' a meeting with the Health Minister.

In a statement released on Wednesday evening, Mr Twigg said: 'I raised several concerns and issues and asked for evidence and data on the impact of Covid-19 on our area.

'I was assured that a decision has not yet been taken on the further local restrictions we may face but it is likely to be decided tomorrow.'

Local leaders have called for the Government to provide financial support if it brings in stricter restrictions.

In a joint statement, Liverpool City Region metro mayor Steve Rotheram and the leaders of Liverpool, Sefton, Wirral, St Helens, Halton and Knowsley authorities have called for the Government to work with them, provide financial support and increase testing capacity.

They said: 'Throughout the pandemic, we have always put the health of our residents first and we will continue to do everything we can to stop the spread of coronavirus and keep as many people as possible safe.

'However, at the same time, we must be clear that any further restrictions will deal a hammer blow to our economy.'

Four Welsh local authority areas - Denbighshire, Flintshire, Conwy and Wrexham - will go into lockdown at 6pm tonight, with people banned from meeting anyone outside their household indoors.

People will also be forbidden to enter or leave the county in which they live without a reasonable excuse, such as travel for work or education.

In North Wales, the new local lockdown will affect around 504,000 people and will bring the number of people in the country under lockdown to more than 2.3 million.

It means 16 areas of the country will face some form of extra restrictions, with the majority of the other areas under lockdown located in South Wales.

This morning, Jim Jones of North Wales Tourism said he had seen no evidence that visitors were responsible for the spread and warned the lockdown would devastate local businesses.

'Business are extremely and understandably frustrated, it's another dark day,' he told BBC Radio Wales Breakfast.

'They have invested so much time and gone to extraordinary measures to be Covid-compliant and make everybody safe and then all of a sudden they've got to cancel bookings and tell visitors to go home.'

The North East was made subject to new restrictions yesterday morning, with people banned from meeting anyone inside unless they are part of their Covid bubble. However this stopped short of a full lockdown that would shut pubs and restaurants.

It comes as Boris Johnson was bolstered by new figures showing the Covid infection rate has started slowing since restrictions were tightened.

The REACT study shows that prevalence of the coronavirus has surged in all regions over the summer, with the North of England worst affected. Pictured: The graphs show different phases of the study, starting with May in the top left and September in the bottom right. Darker colours show higher rates of Covid-19

The prevalence of Covid-19 varies widely across different regions of England but is not lower than one case per 400 people in any part of the nation, the researchers said. It is highest in the North West, where almost one in 100 people are carrying the disease

The Imperial College London's predictions of the prevalence of Covid-19 - the percentage of people who have the illness - rose sharply in September (illustrated by the pink lines)

Revellers in Liverpool make their way home earlier this week after partying until the 10pm curfew

In the strongest evidence yet that local lockdowns are working, results from the largest Covid-19 study in England found the R-rate fell from 1.7 to around 1.1 this month.

The director of the study by Imperial College London and Ipsos Mori said the interim findings from 80,000 participants 'reinforced the need for protective measures' to help extinguish the virus.

North Wales lockdown: What are the new restrictions from 6pm tonight and how long could they last? Where are the lockdowns being imposed? The Welsh Government has announced Denbighshire, Flintshire, Conwy and Wrexham will be placed under local lockdowns from 6pm on Thursday. Announcing the new measures, health minister Vaughan Gething said: 'It's always difficult to make the decision to impose restrictions but we hope that these measures will make a positive difference - just as we have seen in Caerphilly and Newport, where local residents have pulled together and followed the rules.' What are the new restrictions? Under the new measures, people under lockdown will not be allowed to enter or leave the county in which they live without a reasonable excuse, such as travel for work or education. People will also only be able to meet people they do not live with outdoors and will not be able to form, or be in, extended households. How many people will be affected? The local lockdown will affect around 504,000 people and will bring the number of people in Wales under lockdown to more than 2.3 million. It means 16 areas of the country will face some form of extra restrictions, with the majority of the other areas under lockdown located in South Wales. Why are the measures being brought in? The Welsh Government said the local lockdowns are being imposed after people meeting indoors, not following social-distancing guidelines and returning from summer holidays overseas with the virus led to a surge in cases. Mr Gething said: 'These are largely linked to people socialising indoors and are the pattern of transmission similar to what we have seen in South Wales. 'We have worked closely with local authority leaders and the police in North Wales and we all agree about the need to take swift action to control the spread of the virus.' How long will the lockdowns last? While there is no definitive answer as to how long the new restrictions will be in place, authorities have said they will be under 'constant review'. Councillor Mark Pritchard, leader of Wrexham County Borough Council, said: 'It's a balance between people's health and the economy, and we have to do everything we can to get it right. 'These measures will be kept under constant review as we look to control the spread of the virus in the counties of Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire and Wrexham.' Advertisement

That restrictions are seemingly helping to stem the spread of Covid-19 will help the Prime Minister's case for imposing curbs to flatten the second wave.

The trio presented maps that starkly exposed the North-South coronavirus divide. And official data shows that the average number of positive tests each day is at least twice as high in North West England as in any other region, and that Scotland's cases are 14 times higher than they were at the beginning of August, outpacing England's outbreak.

An average 1,595 cases of Covid-19 are being diagnosed in the North West every day now, compared to just 150 in the South West, while Yorkshire and the Humber and the North East face the second highest infection rates. All of the 10 areas with the worst case-per-person ratios are in the north, while eight of 10 of those with the lowest are in the south. Professor Whitty said there was a 'heavy concentration' of coronavirus towards the top of England.

In a plea to the public the Prime Minister said: 'If we put in the work together now then we give ourselves the best possible chance of avoiding that outcome and avoiding further measures.'

'I know some people will think we should give up and let the virus take its course despite the huge loss of life that would potentially entail. I have to say I profoundly disagree. I don't think that is what the British people want. I don't think they want to throw in the sponge. They want to fight and defeat this virus and that is what we are going to do.'

'Even as we fight Covid, it is vital that people get all the treatment they need for other conditions. But I must be clear, if the NHS were to be overwhelmed by covid, then no-one could get any such care.'

Highlighting the sharp rise in infections and defending his recent comments warning that the UK could see 50,000 coronavirus cases a day by mid-October, Sir Patrick said grimly: 'Things are definitely going in the wrong direction.'

Professor Whitty slapped back at critics, saying they had accused him of being 'too optimistic and too pessimistic on numbers'. But he said that in March the government failed to recognise how fast the virus was spreading and the mistake could not be repeated. In a gloomy message, he said: 'We have a long winter ahead of us.'

Data presented by Professor Whitty in the televised briefing showed a clear north-south divide in the coronavirus infections across England.

The scientific advisers admitted the top half of the country is clearly worse affected than the bottom, but insisted 'it would be wrong' to think the problem isn't nationwide.

A heat map of infection rates across the country showed that almost all of the South West, South East, East Midlands and the East of England were shaded in the lightest possible colour, meaning the numbers of cases are below the average for England.

The average infection rate for the country as a whole was 35.7 cases per 100,000 as at Public Health England's latest official update last Friday.

Colour-coding showed the problem is worst in the North West around Liverpool and Manchester and also in the far North East, towards Newcastle.

Much of those two regions and the West Midlands - and to a lesser extent London and Cornwall - were shown in a darker colour, indicating case rates are near or above average.

Professor Whitty said: 'At this point in time there is a very heavy concentration in particular areas - in particular in the North West, the North East and parts of the Midlands

Jeremy Hunt says early local lockdowns might have controlled surge Coronavirus cases are at a much lower level than in March and local lockdowns might have helped control the outbreak, Jeremy Hunt said today. The Health Select Committee chair insisted people should not be too alarmed by the situation, as earlier action had been taken this time around. He told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'I think the evidence from what happened earlier in the year, not just in this country but all over the world, is that acting early, decisively, quickly, is actually the best way to contain the spread of the virus and that's what I think Chris Whitty and the Prime Minister are saying. 'One of the things that is often not noted about Italy was the successful way in which they managed to contain the outbreak of the virus in northern Italy, in Lombardy, and avoid it spreading to the rest of the country. 'Now, we didn't manage to do that first time round but it just may be that these local lockdowns, although we haven't seen a big reduction in transmission within those areas, they may just have contained it and stopped it from becoming the national outbreak that we had before.' Advertisement

'There's a general increase [in the rate of infection] across the whole of England and the same is also true in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland but a very rapid increase in particular areas; again, particularly in the North East, North West and areas of the Midlands [but] not exclusively.'

Numbers of positive tests reported by the Department of Health reflect what was shown in the map, with the North West reporting significantly more cases than any other region.

In the week up to September 23 - the most recent data available - there were an average of 1,595 cases diagnosed each day in the crisis-hit region.

This was more than double the 663 daily average in Yorkshire and the Humber, three times as high as the 564 in the West Midlands and 551 in the North East.

It blows the more southern regions, except London (471 per day), out of the water.

In the East Midlands there were 274 cases per day over the same seven-day period, along with 227 in the South East, 185 in the East of England and just 150 in the South West.

This means that the looming threat of a national lockdown, which Mr Johnson yesterday said he didn't want to resort to but would if he had to, places millions of people at risk of being lumped under tight restrictions because of the actions of people hundreds of miles away.

MPs have already cautioned against 'broad brush' tactics that see people in less-affected areas unfairly punished.

But Sir Patrick Vallance insisted: 'It would be wrong to take from this that this is a problem that's only in certain areas.

'It is worse in certain areas but there is evidence of spread everywhere, and we need to be mindful of that and everyone needs to take precautions across the country.'

Bars and restaurants could be forced to shut in Liverpool (pictured: People in the city enjoy a drink outside yesterday) as part of a circuit-breaker lockdown

Official data for Liverpool, with Covid cases from September 21 to 27 broken down by age and sex

Liverpool John Moores University's campus has remained quarantine-free, despite footage of a huge booze-fuelled rave in an accommodation hall surfacing today

Revealed: All the areas of England, Scotland and Wales that have been hit by tougher local restrictions because of a spike in Covid-19 cases

The map of Britain's coronavirus rules: As confusion reigns, where can you meet friends for a pint inside or outside? And will the lockdown police ask you for a 'reasonable excuse'?

Britain's complex coronavirus rules have confused even the Prime Minister as numerous different restrictions are put in place across the country to try and keep the number of coronavirus cases down.

Aside from the standard rules in England, eight different regions have additional restrictions or rules that differ from those in place in England.

In total around 16.6m people in the UK are subject to local lockdowns, one quarter of the population.

Among the subtle differences are those between different local lockdown areas in England. For example in the North East, residents are legally banned from meeting people from outside their households inside pubs - but are free to do so outdoors.

In Bolton pubs and restaurants have been closed completely and can do takeout only while funerals and weddings are limited to six people. In the North East the weddings and funeral limit remains 15.

The devolved regions also have different rules. The rule of six applies to children in England, but not to under 12s in Scotland and under-11s in Wales.

In Scotland the rule of six is limited to people from two households in Scotland. Residents are not allowed to host guests in their own homes, if the guests are from outside their household or support bubble.

In Wales the rule of six is limited to people of up to four households indoors. Outdoors, people can gather in groups of up to 30 but should maintain social distancing from people from other households.

In Welsh local lockdown areas people can meet in their own gardens in groups of up to 30, but in English local lockdown areas the rules apply to gardens as a well as inside homes. Welsh people are also banned from leaving local lockdown areas unless they have a 'reasonable excuse'.

Welsh wedding ceremonies do not have a limit on the number of attendees, but they must wear masks including the bride and groom. Welsh wedding receptions are limited to 30 people.

These are the rules:

England:

Social gatherings

No more than six people are permitted to gather indoors or outdoors - with a few exceptions, which include going to school, work, or 'exceptional life events'.

Children are not exempt from the rules, unlike in Wales and Scotland

Breaking these new restrictions mean fines of 200 (100 if paid within 14 days), doubling for each incident up to 3,200.

Pubs and Restaurants

Pubs and restaurants across England must close at 10pm. The rule of six still applies but applies to each group inside - not the venue as a whole.

Venues are now 'legally required' to take and keep the contact details of a member from every group of visitors for 21 days. This is so they can pass them on to NHS Test and Trace 'without delay' if needed.

The hospitality venue could face a fine if it fails to stick to the Covid security standards and the Government pledged to back local authorities to make 'further and faster use of their powers' against venues who break the rules.

Covid-19 secure venues, such as places of worship, restaurants and hospitality venues, can still host larger numbers in total but groups of up to six must not mix or form larger groups.

Travel

The rule of six limit does not apply to strangers gathering in the same space, such as a train or bus.

Government guidelines say: 'You can help control coronavirus and travel safely by walking and cycling, if you can. However, where this is not possible, you can use public transport or drive.

'If you do use public transport, you must wear a face covering and you should follow the safer travel guidance for passengers.'

Schools

Face masks not required in schools outside local lockdown areas. Face masks are required for school pupils in Year 7 or above in communal areas in areas where local lockdowns are in place.

Work

The six person limit does not apply to gatherings for work. Offices should take steps to ensure social distancing is maintained.

The government initially urged workers to return to the office, but has since U-turned and called for anyone who can work from home to do so to try to drive down the number of cases.

Sport

You can continue to take part in organised sporting or licensed physical activity in groups of more than 6 outdoors and up to 6 people indoors (for over 18s).

Organised dance and exercise classes can take place in groups of more than six, but you must not mix with more than five other participants.

Masks

Face coverings have to be worn on public transport, in shops and supermarkets. They are also needed in other indoor venues such as museums, cinemas, galleries and places of worship.

The government also advised people to where them wherever they cannot keep to social distancing guidelines.

Hospitality and retail workers now have to wear face coverings at work, as well as passengers in taxis.

Weddings and Funerals

Weddings are limited to 15 people and funerals are limited to 30 people. Staff working at these events are not included.

North East and Liverpool:

Seven local authorities in the North East and Liverpool are subject to some of the strictest restrictions, which came into force on Wednesday. The affected areas are:

Durham

Gateshead

Newcastle

Northumberland

North Tyneside

South Tyneside

Sunderland

Liverpool

Warrington

Hartlepool

Middlesborough

How are the rules different to the rest of England?

Social gatherings

Residents are legally banned from meeting friends who are not in their household or support bubble indoors. This includes in their homes or gardens, pubs and restaurants. But it does not include anywhere outdoors including pub beer gardens.

The police will be able to take action against those who break these rules, including asking people to disperse and issuing fixed penalty notices starting at 200 for those who participate in illegal gatherings.

While the rules do not ban people from meeting under the rule of six outside, the government advice states residents should not 'socialise with people you do not live with'. It also advises against visiting care home residents.

Pubs and Restaurants

Hospitality venues also have to close at 10pm like the rest of the country. It is against the law to sit in a pub with someone you do not live with or is in your bubble.

Travel

Public transport is restricted to 'essential trips', be it work or school or looking after an elderly relative. Going outside the area is also restricted to 'essential' reasons.

But this is not law, this is just government advice so it is left to people to judge for themselves what is essential.

Schools

Face masks are required for school pupils in Year 7 or above in communal areas in areas.

Work

Same as the rest of England

Masks

Same as the rest of England

Sport

Sports can be played outdoors with more than six people, but indoors they are limited to six people out of only one 'one household and support bubble', the government say.

Organised dance and exercise classes can take place in groups of more than 6 outdoors, where a risk assessment has been carried out, but you must not mix with more than five other participants.

Weddings and Funerals

Same as the rest of the country.

Bolton*

Bolton was put under tighter lockdown measures on September 5 as the stubborn infection rate remained high. At one point the rate increased to 99 cases per 100,000 people per week, which was the highest in England.

Social gatherings

People are not allowed to host people from outside their own household or support bubble in their houses or garden.

Meeting outside is allowed, but pubs and restaurants are closed.

Pubs and Restaurants

Pubs in Bolton are shut to stem a flare-up in infections. They can only serve takeaway, and are obliged to close completely between 10pm and 5am.

Travel

People can travel in and out of Bolton for work, education reason or other excuses deemed 'essential'.

Schools

Face masks are required for school pupils in Year 7 or above in communal areas in areas.

Work

Same as rest of England.

Masks

Same as rest of England.

Sport

You can continue to take part in organised sporting or licensed physical activity in groups of more than 6 outdoors and up to 6 people indoors (for over 18s).

Weddings and Funerals

In Bolton, a maximum of 6 people should to attend these events. The government says this should be limited to close family of the people getting married or the person who has died, or people who live(d) or formed a support bubble with them. A close friend can attend a funeral only if there are no household members or immediate families.

*rules change to the same as North West on 2 October

Northern and Southern Wales

From 6pm on Thursday, residents of Denbighshire, Flintshire, Conwy and Wrexham will be banned from mixing indoors with other households - affecting 500,000 people. The full list of Welsh areas in lockdown include:

Carmarthensire

Swansea

Neath Port Talbot

Bridgend

Rhondda Cynon Taf

Merhtyr Tydfil

Caerphilly

Blaenau Gwent

Torfaen

Newport

Cardiff

Vale of Glamorgan

Bridgend

Conwy

Denbighshire

Flintshire

Wrexham

How do the rules differ from England?

Social gatherings:

In the Welsh local lockdown areas meeting anyone from outside your own household indoors is banned.

Meeting them in gardens or outdoors is allowed.

However people are allowed to gather in groups of thirty outdoors - including in private gardens.

Outside the local lockdown areas, the rule of six applies indoors in Wales but is limited to people from four different households.

The rule of six in Wales applies only to children 11 and over.

Travel

In the Welsh local lockdown areas travel to another area is banned unless an individual can provide a 'reasonable excuse'. This can include going to school or work.

If the individual cannot provide a reasonable excuse they can be fined and prosecuted by the courts.

Pubs and Restaurants

Pubs and restaurants must close at 10pm and can provide table service only.

Schools

Schools are unaffected by the Welsh local lockdowns. All children over 11 are advised to wear masks in indoor public areas.

Work

The Welsh local lockdowns do not affect the rules on working from home. The Welsh government advises employees to work from home wherever possible and should not return to the work place unless there is a 'clearly demonstrated' need for them to do so.

Masks

The Welsh government legally requires face masks in indoor public places for all people over the age of 11.

Weddings and funerals

Attendees at Welsh weddings and funerals are required to wear face masks. This includes the bride and groom who can remove their masks to kiss.

There is no limit on the size of the ceremonies. Receptions and wakes are limited to 30 people.

Sport

Organised outdoor outdoor sport is allowed but 'social disatncing must be maintained at all times and particiapnts are limited to 30 people.

Gyms and leisure centres can remain open but users must wear masks when not performing strenuous exercise. Indoor sports that cannot be socially distanced are banned.

Cycling is allowed but only within the boundary of the local lockdown area.

The rest of Wales

Other areas in Wales have so far managed to steer clear of new restrictions but are still subject to the Welsh rules.

How do the rules differ from England?

Social gatherings

The rule of six applies indoors in Wales but is limited to people from four different households. However people are allowed to gather in groups of thirty outdoors - including in private gardens.

The rule of six in Wales applies only to children 11 and over.

Travel

People from the rest of Wales are not allowed to travel into the local lockdown areas unless they have a 'reasonable excuse'

They are allowed to go on holiday or travel for other 'legitimate' reasons.

Pubs and Restaurants

Pubs and restaurants must close at 10pm and can provide table service only

Schools

All children over 11 are advised to wear masks in indoor public areas.

Work

The Welsh government advises employees to work from home wherever possible and should not return to the work place unless there is a 'clearly demonstarted' need for them to do so.

Masks

The Welsh government requires face masks in indoor public places for all people over the age of 11.

Weddings and funerals

Attendees at Welsh weddings and funerals are required to wear face masks. This includes the bride and groom who can remove their masks to kiss.

There is no limit on the size of the ceremonies. Receptions and wakes are limited to 30 people.

Sport

Organised outdoor outdoor sport is allowed but 'social distancing must be maintained at all times and participants are limited to 30 people.

Gyms and leisure centres can remain open but users must wear masks when not performing strenuous exercise. Indoor sports that cannot be socially distanced are banned.

Scotland

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon last week took the Covid-19 response a step further in Scotland, proving to be moving more cautiously than neighbouring England once again. Areas in lockdown north of the border are:

West Dunbartonshire

East Dunbartonshire

Glasgow City

Renfrewshire

East Renfrewshire

South Lanarkshire

North Lanarkshire

How do the rules differ from England?

Social gatherings

The rule of six applies indoors and outdoors in Scotland, but it also has a limit of individuals from two households.

Residents of Scotland are not allowed to host people from outside their own household in their own homes. They can host people in their garden but must abide by the above rule of six.

Pubs and Restaurants

People are allowed to meet in pub beer gardens - six people from a maximum of two households. They close at 10pm.

Travel

Same as England.

Schools

Face masks are mandatory in communal areas of secondary schools.

Work

Everyone who can work from home should do. Non-essential offices and call centres should not yet re-open.

Masks

People have to wear face coverings in: aquariums, indoor zoos or visitor farms, and any other indoor tourist, heritage or cultural site, banks, building societies and credit unions, cinemas, community centres, crematoriums and funeral directors, libraries, museums and galleries, places of worship, post offices, storage and distribution facilities, including collection and drop off points, bingo halls, casinos, bowling alleys, amusement arcades and other leisure facilities (such as snooker and pool halls), indoor funfairs, indoor fitness studios, gyms, swimming pools or other indoor leisure centres, indoor skating rinks.

Sport

People can take part in organized outdoor sport. Indoors, contact sports are not allowed and social distancing must be maintained.

Weddings and Funerals

Weddings, civil partnership ceremonies and funerals should have no more than 20 people indoors or outdoors.

North West

Twenty-six other areas in the North are subject to some restrictions. The affected areas are:

Blackburn

Blackpool

Burnley

Chorley

Fylde

Halton

Hyndburn

Knowsley

Lancaster

Liverpool

Pendle

Preston

Ribble Valley

Rossendale

Sefton

South Ribble

St Helens

West Lancashire

Wirral

Wyre

Bradford

Calderdale

Kirklees

Leeds

Greater Manchester

Social gatherings

People are not allowed to host people from outside their own household or support bubble in their houses or garden.

The police will be able to take action against those who break these rules, including asking people to disperse and issuing fixed penalty notices starting at 200 for those who participate in illegal gatherings. (100 if paid within 14 days).

While the rules do not ban people from meeting under the rule of six in pubs or restaurants, the government has issued advice that states residents should not 'socialise with people you do not live with'. It also advises against visiting care home residents.

Pubs and Restaurants

Pubs and restaurants must shut at 10pm. The guidelines advise that social contact with other households should be avoided in, restaurants, cafes, shops, places of worship, community centres, leisure and entertainment venues, or visitor attractions and parks. But it is not banned.

Travel

Within most of the North West lockdown public transport is restricted to 'essential trips', be it work or school or looking after an elderly relative. Going outside the area is also restricted to 'essential' reasons.

But this is not law, this is just government advice so it is left to people to judge for themselves what is essential.

The Greater Manchester area is exempt, apart from Oldham where residents have been instructed to avoid using public transport and instead walk or cycle where they can.

Listing acceptable reasons for locals to catch a bus, train or tram, the government website includes: to get to and from work; to get essential food or medical supplies including click and collect services; to support someone who is vulnerable, if no one else can do so; to travel to and from the homes of others in your support bubble; to attend an early years setting, school or college, or to accompany a child who is attending an early years setting, school or college, where necessary; to fulfil legal obligations; to seek medical care, or avoid illness, injury or harm.

Residents can still go on holiday wherever they choose - subject to following the Foreign Office travel guidance - as long as they only go with people in their bubble.

Schools

Face masks are required for school pupils in Year 7 or above in communal areas in areas.

Work

Same as rest of England.

Masks

Same as rest of England.

Sport

Same as rest of England.

Weddings and Funerals

Same as rest of England.

West Midlands

Britain's second largest city and three surrounding areas were placed into a local lockdown two weeks ago amid concerns the restrictions will spread to other regions.

Birmingham

Sandwell

Solihull

Wolverhampton

Social gatherings

People are not allowed to host people from outside their own household or support bubble in their houses or garden.

Meeting outside and in pubs is allowed but only under the rule of six.

Pubs and Restaurants

Pubs and restaurants must shut at 10pm.

Travel

If you live in the affected area, you can travel outside them. But you must not meet people you do not live with in their home or garden, whether inside or outside of the affected areas, unless they are in your support bubble.

Schools

Face masks are required for school pupils in Year 7 or above in communal areas in areas.

Work

Same as the rest of England.

Masks

Same as the rest of England.

Sport

Same as the rest of England.

Weddings and Funerals

Same as the rest of England.

Covid situation

Coronavirus cases are on the rise across Birmingham, with 12,995 pupils and 714 teachers back home self-isolating.

112 of the city's schools have seen infections since reopening to students at the start of this month.

Leicester

The Department of Health and Social Care yesterday tweaked the rules in place for Leicester's localised lockdown, with the changes also applying to:

Leicester city

Oadby

Wigston

Social gatherings

People are not allowed to host people from outside their own household or support bubble in their houses or garden.

Meeting outside and in pubs is allowed but only under the rule of six.

Leicester is the only area in the country that has had to remain under addition measures since the rest of the country was lifted from lockdown on July 4.

Vulnerable residents have been told to remain shielding until October 5.

After this date formal shielding will be paused in the area, and Leicester City Council will take over advising the local population on what to do.

Pubs and Restaurants

Same as the rest of England.

Travel

Same as the rest of England.

Schools

Face masks are required for school pupils in Year 7 or above in communal areas in areas. Parents have been asked to wear masks on the school run.

Work

Same as the rest of England.

Masks

Same as the rest of England.

Sport

Same as the rest of England.

Weddings and Funerals

Same as the rest of England.

Are there any loopholes?

Despite vast swathes of England, Scotland and Wales being under some form of local lockdown, there are some loopholes people could exploit.

Get a pint after 10pm

Punters can still get their hands on a draft pint after 10pm if they use establishments at motorway services because they are classed as an essential service.

The Hope and Champion is a Wetherspoon at Beaconsfield Services on the M40, in Buckinghamshire is one pub that can still legally serve after the curfew lasting until 5am. It provides food and drink for those on the roads, so now remains open later than other pubs.
Charlie Carver was allegedly chastised by a fellow gay actor on multiple occasions for being 'too effeminate,' while attending an Emmy's after-party in 2015.

'I was told that I needed to "get it under control" around people in the business,' recalled Charlie, 32, in an interview with Variety published Wednesday.

Carver claimed that the unnamed actor, who he had worked with in the past, even slapped him across the face at one point for seeking clarification on the unsolicited advice.

Uncalled for: Charlie Carver was allegedly chastised by a fellow gay actor on multiple occasions for being 'too effeminate'; Charlie pictured in 2016

Charlie explained that the physical encounter occurred as he was waiting at the party venue's valet area.

While waiting for his car, Carver happened to bump into the unnamed actor for the umpteenth time and he asked him what he meant by getting his effeminate nature 'under control.'

Instead of elaborating, the former co-worker of Carver's slapped him across the face.

'It wasn't playful but intentional, pointed and meant to be instructive. A slap. I told him that if he ever touched me again, I would name him,' Charlie recalled.

He told Variety that the slap was a major turning point for him because it only further emboldened him to be his true self.

Unforgettable: According to Charlei, the incidents occurred at an Emmy's after party in 2015; Charlie pictured in 2015

'That was the moment when I said to myself, "I can't do this. I cannot police myself in that way."'

Months after the incident, Charlie used his Instagram to come out as gay.

The series of posts, uploaded in January of 2016, detailed Carver's internal struggle with his sexuality and how finally being open and honest about who he is may help put an end to the stigma.

'Honesty is probably a great step in the right direction. I now believe that by omitting this part of myself from the record, I am complicit in perpetuating the suffering, fear, and shame cast upon so many in the world,' read one portion of his post.

The Boys In The Band: Charlie's candid interview with Variety was, in part, to promote the Ryan Murphy-produced film adaptation of The Boys In The Band for Netflix

Another excerpt read: 'So now, let the record show this- I self-identify as gay. And does that really matter anymore? As a young man, I needed a young man in Hollywood to say that- and without being a d*ck about it, I owe it to myself, more than anything, to be who I needed when I was younger.'

Charlie's candid interview with Variety was, in part, to promote the Ryan Murphy-produced film adaptation of The Boys In The Band for Netflix.

The Boys In The Band was originally an off Broadway production that premiered in 1968, but the iconic play made its Broadway debut when it was revived in 2018.

Broadway: The Boys In The Band was originally an off Broadway production that premiered in 1968, but the iconic play made its Broadway debut when it was revived in 2018; Jim Parsons, Matt Bomer, Zachary Quinto, Andrew Rannells, Brian Hutchison, Michael Benjamin Washington, Robin de Jesus and Tuc Watkins pictured in 2019

Watch now: The entire ensemble reunited for Murphy's 2020 film which premiered on Netflix on Wednesday; Zachary Quinto, Robin De Jesus and Charlie Carver pictured

The Tony Award winning 2018 revival starred Charlie, as well as fellow openly gay actors Jim Parsons, Matt Bomer, Zachary Quinto, Andrew Rannells, Brian Hutchison, Michael Benjamin Washington, Robin de Jesus and Tuc Watkins.

The entire ensemble reunited for Murphy's 2020 film which premiered on Netflix on Wednesday.

Carver is most famous for portraying handsome werewolf Ethan on the popular MTV series Teen Wolf alongside his twin brother Max, 32.

Teen Wolf is available to stream on Stan in Australia
SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Primer, a machine intelligence company, announced today winning a multi-million dollar Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract from the United States Air Force (USAF) and Special Operations Command (USSOCOM).

Primer will develop the first-ever machine learning platform to automatically identify and assess suspected disinformation. Primer will also enhance its natural language processing platform to automatically analyze tactical events to provide commanders with unprecedented insight as events unfold in near real-time.

Primer to create first AI-powered platform to combat disinformation

In partnership with the USAF and USSOCOM, Primer will develop the first machine learning platform capable of identifying and assessing the veracity of suspected disinformation. It was previously impossible for machine learning solutions to effectively identify and extract claims, but by leveraging new approaches pioneered by Primer's in-house natural language processing researchers, Primer aims to complete initial development of these platforms within the next 12 months.

Information overload is one of the most pressing challenges facing the U.S. military. Every day, humanity creates 2.5 quintillion bytes of new data, and less than one percent of the total amount of global data has ever been analyzed . From 1995-2016, the average US intelligence analyst's daily required reading grew from 20,000 to 200,000 words per day, and is expected to grow to over 2,000,000 by 2025. The massive volume of information available, coupled with exponential growth in disinformation, underscores the fact that to fight disinformation the U.S. will need to illuminate the truth .

Primer will tailor existing AI platform to enable USSOCOM and USAF to analyze events in real-time

Primer builds software machines that read and write in English, Russian, and Chinese to automatically unearth trends and patterns across large volumes of data. The company supports the mission of the intelligence community and broader DOD by automating reading and research tasks to enhance the speed and quality of decision-making. Primer will tailor this technology to provide a continuously updating dashboard for USAF and USSOCOM operational commanders to analyze events as they unfold in real-time. This platform will automate the work typically done by dozens of analysts in a security operations center to ingest all of the data relevant to an event as it happens and funnel it into a unified user interface, including identifying trends and patterns, to quickly give commanders the most important information.

"Since 2016, we have seen AI-powered disinformation disrupt elections, critical infrastructure, and undermine the ground truth of our nation," said Sean Gourley, CEO & Founder of Primer. "We've entered a new era where information warfare and the ability for our adversaries to shape perceptions of reality are their deadliest weapons, and we're honored to work with the US Air Force and SOCOM to create first-of-its-kind AI solutions for tracking complex events and countering online disinformation."

More than 15 percent of Primer's employees previously worked within the U.S. Department of Defense or Intelligence Community. Recently, Primer added national security experts Sue Gordon, former Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence, as a strategic advisor, and Brett McGurk, former Special Presidential Envoy for the Global Coalition to Counter ISIL, as a member of its board. In order to support the fastest growing sector of our business, Primer opened an office in Washington D.C. last year.

About Primer

Primer is a machine intelligence company headquartered in San Francisco. We build machines that can read and write, automating the analysis of very large datasets. Primer's technology is deployed by some of the world's largest government agencies, financial institutions, and Fortune 50 companies. For more information, please visit primer.ai

About the Air Force SBIR Program

AFRL and AFWERX have partnered to streamline the Small Business Innovation Research process in an attempt to speed up the experience, broaden the pool of potential applicants and decrease bureaucratic overhead. Beginning in SBIR 18.2, and now in 20.R, the Air Force has begun offering 'Special' SBIR topics that are faster, leaner and open to a broader range of innovations.

SOURCE Primer AI
HAIFA, Israel, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- proteanTecs, a leading developer of Deep Data solutions for electronics' health & performance monitoring, will be participating in a virtual panel discussion at the Global Semiconductor Alliance (GSA) European Executive Forum 2020. The live panel discussion titled: "Reliability in Automotive Electronics" will be held on October 6th at 7PM CET. To register, visit here.

proteanTecs, Qualcomm, Renesas Electronics and NXP to participate in GSA European Executive Forum discussion on automotive reliability

As vehicles become smarter, connected, and more fuel efficient, the content of electronics, especially semiconductors, is increasing dramatically. Unprecedented levels of reliability in electronics are demanded by the automotive industry as (1) more semiconductors are used in critical functions in the vehicle and as (2) emerging business models dictate an uninterrupted 24/7 exploitation of self-driving vehicles.

The panel will feature discussions by various players from the automotive ecosystem on challenges and solutions to address the reliability concerns of automotive electronics. Speakers include:

Moderator:

Luca de Ambroggi, Senior Principal Automotive Electronic Systems and Components; Wards Automotive; Informa Tech

Panelists

Shai Cohen , co-Founder and CEO of proteanTecs

, co-Founder and CEO of proteanTecs Dino Flore , VP Technology at Qualcomm

, VP Technology at Qualcomm Tomomitsu Maoka, SVP, Deputy GM of Automotive Solution Business Unit at Renesas Electronics

Lars Reger , CTO at NXP; Managing Director NXP Semiconductors Germany

The event will feature a live Q&A session. To join, register here.

About proteanTecs

proteanTecs develops revolutionary Universal Chip Telemetry for electronic systems throughout their entire lifecycle, increasing their performance and reliability. By applying machine learning to novel data created by chip-embedded Agents, proteanTecs provides meaningful insights and visibility unattainable until today, leading to new levels of quality, reliability and scale. Founded in 2017, the company is headquartered in Israel with offices in New Jersey and California. For more information, visit: www.proteanTecs.com.

About the Global Semiconductor Alliance (GSA)

GSA is Where Leaders Meet to establish an efficient, profitable and sustainable semiconductor and high technology global ecosystem encompassing semiconductors, software, solutions, systems and services. It is a leading industry organization that provides a unique neutral platform for collaboration, where global executives interface and innovate with peers, partners and customers to accelerate industry growth and maximize return on invested and intellectual capital. The GSA has an impressive global footprint representing over 25 countries and 250 corporate members, including 100 public companies. The global membership ranges from the most exciting emerging companies to industry stalwarts and technology leaders. Members of the GSA represent 75% of the $400B+ semiconductor industry and continue to grow.

At the Virtual European Executive Forum 2020, industry leaders will discuss how industry is being reshaped and society being transformed by a wave of Industrial Automation and Robotics, Remote Maintenance and Digital Twins. These digital transformation trends are unleashed and enabled by the coming-of-age of AI, 5G, Cloud Computing and Cybersecurity, and are now suddenly accelerated by the dramatic effects of the world pandemic sweeping the world over.

Press Contact:

Tamar Naishlos,

Media Relations

[email protected]

SOURCE proteanTecs

Related Links

http://www.proteanTecs.com


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Palantirs chief on stocks and social activism

The data-mining consultancy successfully went public yesterday, getting a valuation of more than $20 billion by directly listing existing shares on the New York Stock Exchange, rather than raising new money with an I.P.O. Palantirs co-founder and C.E.O., Alex Karp, spoke with Andrew about the debut.

On going public without a traditional I.P.O.:

With a listing, you can still kind of keep your culture, Mr. Karp said. We didnt bring in the super-experienced but culturally foreign A players. We were doing it with people at Palantir.

On his tight control of Palantir through special classes of stock:

I think the control structure has to be tethered to a philosophical or mission bent that is deeply intertwined in the company, he said, adding that a justification of Were the founders, take it or leave it wasnt satisfactory. He added, I also think that many people believe that over the long haul, it may be better to invest in a founder-driven company  that the co-founders may look odd, but the results may be really good. And I kind of share that bias. (For more on Palantirs unique governance model, check out the Deal Professor below.)

On the debate about companies embracing, or rejecting, social activism:

Companies should really articulate what they stand for, and then investors should get to judge whether they want to be involved in that company, Mr. Karp said. If youre a consumer internet company, you should say, We believe that monetizing your data is a really good commercial model and it makes people happier because they get free communication services on the back of the fact we can influence their behavior.
World Space Week 2020 webinar series on "Satellites to improve lives"



In its resolution of 6 December 1999, the United Nations General Assembly declared 4-10 October "World Space Week" to celebrate each year at the international level the contributions of space science and technology to the betterment of the human condition.

The theme of this year's World Space Week is: "Satellites improve lives".

Satellites are unique allies that allow us to make better informed decisions. By providing us with images and data that would not otherwise be accessible, satellite technology offers governments and organisations superior information to shape policymaking, for the benefit of all. Just to cite a few examples of their uses, satellites help us plan responses in case of disasters; support the planning of humanitarian aid; help us find suitable locations for sustainable energy production; enable access to services such as healthcare advice and education even in remote locations; help us improve sustainable agriculture and water management; and identify the most efficient transport routes.

UNOOSA works to ensure that all countries and their people, independently of their socio-economic conditions or location, can take advantage of these benefits. We do this by reducing barriers for developing countries in particular to access space; by promoting international cooperation and cross-sector partnerships to share skills and know-how; and by offering training, expertise and advice to governments, organisations and individuals to seize the benefits of space applications.

In this series of webinars, we will present some of our initiatives focused on satellites. We will also hear from the winners of our Space4Youth competition their ideas to leverage satellites for sustainable development.

The webinars will take place on Microsoft Teams.

Below are the agenda and timing of each webinar, as well as the link to join.

Webinar 1 Title Voices from global youth on leveraging satellites for better lives: the winners of the UNOOSA/SGAC Space4Youth competition Date Monday 5 October 2020 Time 14:00 CET Duration 1.0 hours Link to join the event https://bit.ly/3lbtqJB Live event description In this webinar, we will hear the winners of the UNOOSA/SGAC Space4Youth competition, that asked young people worldwide contributions to leverage space applications for sustainable development, present their ideas. The competition has been generously supported by the U.S. Mission to the International Organizations in Vienna. The event will be followed by a short Q&A with the winners. Agenda Veronica Cesco (UNOOSA): Introduction to the Space4Youth competition (5 min)

Matteo Cappella (Operations Manager, SGAC): SGAC and the Space4Youth Competition (3 min)

Courtney Mazzone (Deputy Public Affairs Officer, U.S. Mission to the International Organizations): The U.S. support for the Space4Youth Initiative (5 min)

Arthur Nielsen Demain (winner of 1 st edition of the Space4Youth competition): Launching the satellites within: a paper on how design thinking can empower the youth to accelerate space and peace in vulnerable communities (7 min)

edition of the Space4Youth competition): Launching the satellites within: a paper on how design thinking can empower the youth to accelerate space and peace in vulnerable communities (7 min) George Profitiliotis, winner of 1 st edition of the Space4Youth competition): Potential synergies between Space Exploration and Sustainable Development on Earth, in light of SDG 15 - Life on Land (7 min)

edition of the Space4Youth competition): Potential synergies between Space Exploration and Sustainable Development on Earth, in light of SDG 15 - Life on Land (7 min) Satrio Wicaksono, winner of 2 nd edition of the Space4Youth competition: Empowering local youth to tackle tropical deforestation via space data (7 min)

edition of the Space4Youth competition: Empowering local youth to tackle tropical deforestation via space data (7 min) Tsz Long So, winner of 2 nd edition of the Space4Youth competition: Space as a tool to address climate change challenges: the case of Hong Kong (7 min)

edition of the Space4Youth competition: Space as a tool to address climate change challenges: the case of Hong Kong (7 min) Q&A moderated by Hazuki Mori (10 min)

Webinar 2 Title The work of UNOOSA helping all countries access satellite technology Date Wednesday 7 October 2020 Time 15:00 CET Duration 1.30 h Link to join the event https://bit.ly/3cEpi1E Live event description In this webinar, we are going to present how UNOOSA helps countries and communities access satellite applications for use in various areas, including for capacity-building in space research and exploration, for GNSS, and for disaster risk reduction. The event will be followed by a short Q&A. Agenda Video message from UNOOSA Director Simonetta Di Pippo: Why satellites matter (5 min)

Jorge Del Rio Vera, UNOOSA: Opportunities to develop and deploy satellites with UNOOSA under the Access to Space 4 All Initiative (20 min)

Coen Bussink, UNOOSA: Satellites for enhancing disaster resilience - the work of UN-SPIDER (20 min)

Sharafat Gadimova, UNOOSA: Satellites for GNSS - the role of International Committee on GNSS (20 min)

Q&A moderated by Ottavia Pesce, UNOOSA (20 min)
In announcing the change in Texas, Mr. Abbott described it as necessary for security. His spokesman did not immediately respond to a request for comment Thursday afternoon about why the governor considered the satellite drop-offs insecure.

The state of Texas has a duty to voters to maintain the integrity of our elections, Mr. Abbott said in a statement accompanying his proclamation. As we work to preserve Texans ability to vote during the Covid-19 pandemic, we must take extra care to strengthen ballot security protocols throughout the state. These enhanced security protocols will ensure greater transparency and will help stop attempts at illegal voting.

There is no evidence that mail-in ballots lead to widespread fraud.

The move drew immediate criticism from Democrats, who are more competitive in Texas this year than they have been in past election cycles, and from voting rights groups.

Republicans are on the verge of losing, so Governor Abbott is trying to adjust the rules last minute, Gilberto Hinojosa, the chairman of the Texas Democratic Party, said in a statement.

The Harris County clerk, Chris Hollins, also denounced the change, saying he would have been willing to allow poll watchers at drop-off locations in order to keep those locations open, and noting that the county had been advertising the now-closing locations for weeks.
While the ballot tells voters to mark the oval to the left of their choice, the ovals actually lie above candidates names. The ballots are also missing a slash between military and absentee, leading many nonmilitary voters to believe theyd gotten the wrong ballot.

Some voters said they were considering forgoing mail-in ballots entirely, despite the potential health risks. At this point Im like, do I just chuck the absentee ballots and try to vote early in person? said Caty Bennett Gray, a resident of Williamsburg. But thats not ideal, because I have a 3-week-old.

Im not sure what Im going to do, because I just feel like I dont trust the absentee ballot system anymore, she said.

Max Yoeli, who lives in the Brooklyn neighborhood of Boerum Hill, has given up on voting by mail entirely.

I called the BOE and was 75th in line, so I emailed them to inform them I would vote early in person instead, he said. I have yet to receive a response.

After two days of silence, Phoenix Graphics, the Rochester, N.Y.-based company that sent out the misprinted ballots, tried to temper worries and said that the mistake was isolated to a single print run of 100,000 ballots and affected fewer than 1,000 ballots in that run. Sal DeBiase, the president of the family-owned company, said in a statement that mechanical-inserting issues caused the mislabeling.

Election officials said a software glitch prevented their knowing how many ballots were affected.

I know that they cant narrow it down any further than the batch than 99,000-plus, said Douglas A. Kellner, the co-chair of the New York State Board of Elections. He faulted Phoenixs quality-control measures.
The Wahkiakum School District Board of Directors began their meeting Sept. 22 with an update on food services. They learned how educators are handling attendance, what the school is doing to combat covid-19, and heard about some big ticket items that needed immediate attention.

Krista Fritzie, the food services director for the district, said that the day before school started, the USDA extended the summer feeding program through December 31, which means the school will be able to continue to provide free meals, both breakfast and lunch, to all students in Wahkiakum County, age 0-18.

They have been preparing and delivering brown bagged breakfasts and lunches for all the students in the classrooms Monday through Friday. There are two lunch periods at the high school, three for K-5, and two for the middle school, and while food services may have once dealt with one group at a time, they are having to make sure students across the board are getting a warm meal, on time.

Its challenging, Fritzie said, but were smoothing out the wrinkles.

The team continues to prepare meals on Fridays for the families who want them, even though it is a remote learning day for all. Bus drivers deliver them to students homes, and hand out meals for the following week for the students who are on a hybrid schedule and are only in the classroom two days a week.

They had delivered 30 meals one Friday and 35 a week later, Fritzie said. She said that some parents had opted to only participate in the program on the days that their children were in school.

Superintendent Brent Freeman took a few moments to honor five people who recently retired from the school district, including Cheryl Parker, 10 years; Julie Doumit, 14 years; Linda Ashe, 22 years; Mary Heagy, 23 years; and Joyce Wilson, 38 years.

Thats a lot of years that they dedicated to the district, Freeman said.

Freeman gave an update on the reopening plan, noting that mask wearing was going well. The district has installed about 80 hand sanitization stations, including on the buses, as well as several hand washing stations.

Establishing cohorts was probably the biggest challenge, Freeman said, and probably took the most time for the two principals. Trying to create cohorts for high school students who have all these different requirements was almost a kind of sadistic game to force on someone.

He acknowledged that they still had some work to do to get the students to understand the importance of the cohorts.

We have control when they are at the school, but during lunches or during the weekend, we need the cohort to stay true to who it is, Freeman said.

He spoke briefly about six foot social distancing and sanitization, before talking about measures put in place to monitor and document symptoms, or the lack of them, and their efforts to mitigate any future issues.

They have kiosks installed to monitor temperatures of all who pass, and they are awaiting a program that will go out to everyone that provides a checklist of symptoms for self-screening, and tells each person whether they should stay at home or not, but Freeman said, it was slow to roll out.

Right now it takes about 10 minutes to get K-8 into building, as they go through those things, Freeman said. We havent had a fever yet, but weve had a few students stay home, which is awesome.

"Attendance has been a chore, Wahkiakum High School Principal Stephanie Leitz told the board. Teachers have to track students in the classroom, the ones at home, and the ones who are 100 percent remote.

But she said, they worry first about the kids in the classroom.

We need to know who is in the building at all times and that they are where they are supposed to be, Leitz said.

She shifted slightly to a connected issue, engagement.

Its harder for remote students because of the internet challenges we have in our community, Leitz said. Students have to have multiple ways to show engagement. Zoom is not accessible for all of our students. Right now, we are using the term not engaged and providing students a lot of ways to show engagement. Simply logging into Zoom doesnt show engagement either. We need to see learning from students, whether thats turning in assignments or being in conversation with their teachers. 100 percent remote students are asked to check in more than once a week to make sure they are understanding concepts, making progress, and mastering standards required for a course.

"Its been awesome to have their little bodies back in the building, to hear the laughter, and the youthfulness in the classrooms and the playground, J.A. Wendt Elementary and John C. Thomas Middle School Principal Nikki Reese said. She also noted that there were 40 students, K-8, who were working remotely.

We are really noticing in K-8, the smaller groups in the classroom are helping students who struggle with regulation or being in larger groups, she said. They are not having any explosive behaviors, or students trying to leave the classroom. Every child is being seen. They have more of their own space, they are getting more attention from the teachers. Maybe kids who are a little resistant to that connection are grabbing on a little sooner.

The principals praised Paul Ireland, who is in charge of technology at the district, for all the work he is doing.

Freeman and Ireland shared some bad news.

The district checkbook is going to get kicked in the teeth a little bit, Freeman said.

Two failing HVAC units needed to be replaced and will cost a little over $37,000, Freeman said, and nine more have the potential to follow.

Ireland reported that their primary domain controller, which the entire network relies on to function had gone down, and while he was exploring options, he believed it could cost the district $20,000.

This is not where I wanted to be, Ireland said. Building a domain controller is not for the faint of heart, doing it in a production environment is no fun, and I dont have time for it.

Freeman continues to search for ways to fund much needed improvements to the aging school district following a bond failure earlier this year.

Covid-19 is all consuming, but this building wont be here in 10 years if we dont start being aggressive, he said. Were not going to get that vehicle I wanted any time soon, but its all about priorities.
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi took on Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath for the death of Hathras rape victim, saying he doesnt have any moral right to continue as chief minister.

I was on the phone with the Hathras victims father when he was informed that his daughter had passed away. I heard him cry out in despair. He had just been telling me that all he wanted was justice for his child. Last night he was robbed of the chance to take his daughter home for the last time and perform her last rites, Gandhi said in her first two tweets on the issue on Wednesday.

She also asked Adityanath to resign. @myogiadityanath RESIGN. Instead of protecting the victim and her family, your government became complicit in depriving her of every single human right, even in death. You have no moral right to continue as Chief Minister, Gandhi tweeted.

@myogiadityanath RESIGN



Instead of protecting the victim and her family, your government became complicit in depriving her of every single human right, even in death. You have no moral right to continue as Chief Minister. 3/3  Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) September 30, 2020

The 19-year-old died in a Delhi hospital on Tuesday. The woman was admitted there in a critical condition after being brutally raped by four men in her village in Uttar Pradeshs Hathras district.

The incident took place on September 14. She was first admitted to JN Medical College and Hospital in Aligarh, but was shifted to Delhis Safdarjung Hospital after her condition deteriorated where she breathed her last.

The UP government has been facing flak from Opposition parties over the issue. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav had said that no hope is left from the insensitive government.

Reacting to the incident, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) president Mayawati tweeted in Hindi, The news of the death of the Dalit girl after gangrape in Hathras, UP, is very sad. The government should provide all possible help to the victims family and ensure quick punishment to the culprits by prosecuting them in a fast-track court.

The Congress has questioned the silence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and women leaders of his party and alleged that Uttar Pradesh under the Yogi Adityanath government has become the countrys crime capital.

At a press conference, Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate alleged that for eight days no gangrape charges were pressed in the matter and that the UP chief ministers information advisor and Agra Police kept calling the incident fake news.
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Linkedin Alice Philipson and Tran Thi Minh Ha (Agence France-Presse) Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam  Thu, October 1, 2020 18:01 478 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4883900 2 People beauty-pageant,Vietnam,children,HHen-Nie Free

Skin-whitening, child marriage, a curtailed education: Vietnamese model and literacy campaigner H'Hen Nie has defied traditional expectations laid on her -- and is now determined to show the next generation a different way.

The 2017 Miss Universe Vietnam winner, who hails from the Ede ethnic minority group in the Central Highlands, was 14 years old when her farmer mother suggested she find a husband.

"I was really scared of getting married. At that time I liked to swim, slide down slopes and play in the forest," the 28-year-old tells AFP.

She was being led down the path of many poor, marginalized ethnic minority children in Vietnam -- marrying young, dropping out of school, and having a slimmer shot of making it to positions of power compared to the country's Kinh majority.

But H'Hen had other plans, explaining: "I was competitive and I loved to study. And I had lots of dreams."

Today, as the first ethnic minority woman to win Vietnam's crown, H'Hen is widely regarded as a trailblazer, going on to represent the country on Miss Universe's world stage and finishing in the Top 5.

She is now an ambassador for global non-profit Room to Read, which focuses on girls' education in the developing world -- an issue pulled into sharper focus as the coronavirus exposes inequalities globally.

A recent Malala Fund report found that 20 million more secondary school-aged girls are at risk of permanently dropping out of school compared to boys by the time the crisis has passed.

Charities are also warning that years of progress tackling child marriage is being undone as desperate families, plunged into poverty because of the pandemic, marry young daughters off -- meaning they are less likely to complete their education.

Read also: Malaysian beauty queen sorry over racist US protest remarks

Refusing to conform

In Vietnam, the legal age to wed is 18, but UNICEF says one in ten girls are married before. Amongst ethnic groups the figure is almost double that.

Growing up with six siblings in a traditional stilt house, H'Hen knew from a young age what was expected of her due to her gender and ethnicity -- but she defiantly rejected the pressures to conform.

Even beauty became a battleground.

Colorism -- prejudice against darker skin tones -- is pervasive across Asia. Today, in the aftermath of the global Black Lives Matter protests, a backlash has begun against archaic beliefs that fair complexions are more desirable.

But even as a young girl, H'Hen was ahead of the times. Her mother tried to convince her to use skin whitening products.

"I refused to take it and would run away to play," H'Hen remembered. "Teenagers often bought cream that made their faces extremely white... but I didn't want to be like them."

And while never outright rejecting her mother's suggestions of marriage, she instead turned to her books and taught herself Vietnamese -- her passport out of the rural village where only a local dialect was spoken.

A decade later, sitting in a golden, chandeliered convention center in Ho Chi Minh City, H'Hen is helping choose a local designer to dress her Miss Universe Vietnam successor.

Her early days in the bustling city were less glamorous. She worked as a maid to fund her degree in corporate finance, and family too came round to her ambitions.

She says: "My mother started to save money for my studies. It was a huge sacrifice. I think my siblings were perhaps not given that much food -- certainly no treats."

Empowering girls, changing lives

After a couple of years in the country's commercial hub, she got her break as a model, and was soon thrust into the spotlight as the first ethnic minority woman to win the Miss Universe Vietnam title.

But her win brought out racists -- who claimed her skin was too dark for her to be beautiful.

"I got made fun of so much that it became normal," H'Hen says.

The taunts only increased her determination to instill confidence and a love of learning in girls from disadvantaged families.

"The thing that I couldn't stand was their comments about my people. I didn't want others in my community to be criticized because of their skin... so I would speak out."

On the advice of her mother -- now her biggest champion -- H'Hen poured all of her Miss Universe prize money into scholarship programs for schoolchildren.

Since her win, she has raised tens of thousands of dollars to build libraries in Vietnam's rural central provinces and supported girls across Asia and Africa to complete secondary school.

H'Hen also mentors older girls who want to go onto further studies.

"I guess I'm a little biased when I meet girls from my community in Ho Chi Minh City," she laughs.

"If she's a student, I encourage her to study more. If she's struggling, I'll offer to share her tuition fees."

If they are given the tools to succeed, she says, nothing can hold them back.

H'Hen insistis: "I want to share this message and change some lives."
3 1 of 3 Democratic National Convention Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images Show More Show Less 3 of 3





Eva Longoria Baston wants to make sure you get out and vote by giving you the opportunity to speak with her as incentive.

The Texas native shared out a post on her Facebook page asking constituents to register to vote on Go2Vote.org. Those who register could win a chance to speak with the Latina actress, producer, director, and activist.
For weeks now, the hundreds of millions of people using TikTok outside of its home base of China have been watching as the fate of the app in the US and other countries is being determined. The US governments main beef with the app, and why its moving to ban it, has centred on TikToks ownership by a Chinese firm, which government lawyers have argued represents an immediate danger to national security. The apps parent company ByteDance is based in Beijing, and the Trump administration has claimed that the apps American user data risks ending up in the hands of the Chinese government  a claim that TikTok has denied.

At the same time, ByteDance has been involved in a settlement around consumer privacy litigation that has exposed it to hundreds of millions of dollars in damages in the US and involved claims that the app unlawfully recorded facial-scan images of children and sent confidential information about adult users to China, according to a filing in Chicago federal court cited by Bloomberg.

Then, over the past weekend, a federal judge in the US partially granted TikToks request for a temporary injunction against the Trump administrations attempt to ban the app in the country, reported Bloomberg. The move effectively blocked the US governments ban on downloads of the app only hours before the policy was set to take effect. This is happening all while the application scrambles to find a commercial partner that would allow it to continue operating in the US.

While it has become the centre of attention in this saga, the US isnt the only country thats been scrutinising TikTok. At the end of June, India banned TikTok, and, just last week, the general manager of TikTok Australia and New Zealand had to reassure a parliamentary hearing about the security of the apps data. Concerns about the security of the app have likewise cropped up in Europe, though theres been little action to investigate or ban the app on the continent so far.

The debates around how serious a privacy risk TikTok actually presents have many layers to them, and, in many cases, encircle other social media applications that gather and use peoples data with what is sometimes reckless abandon. Nevertheless, TikToks expansion, and the political controversies it has sowed, have underscored the rise of a new risk in the cyber and privacy landscape, as well as the importance of regulations to protect users rights and privacy, such as the GDPR in Europe, the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) in Canada, state-specific legislation in the US, and the mix of federal, state and territory laws used in Australia to regulate data privacy and protection.

Read more: Former NSW Police deputy commissioner joins fight against cybercrime

Theres a lot to be gleaned from this developing regulatory environment where an increasingly harsh light has been shone on companies that either dont adequately safeguard their users information or misuse it. In fact, some experts have predicted that the next cyber storm on the horizon involves the wrongful use or wrongful collection of data. However, insurers are somewhat tentative about providing coverage for wrongful use or wrongful collection of information because its an evolving risk, which in turns presents challenges on the cyber insurance front, in terms of adequately protecting companies from the financial losses that could arise.

As a result, brokers and agents have their work cut out for them, to not only understand how cyber policies are evolving to adjust to a changing risk landscape, but also to explain to clients how their policies work and, importantly, what they dont cover.

I think people expect their cyber policies to do a lot more than they actually do, Nick Economidis, vice president, eRisk at Crum & Forster, recently told Insurance Business. They expect their cyber policy to cover everything to do with their computer system, and so lots of people try to make claims for things that are far beyond the intention of the policies.

Read more: New cryptocurrency scam targets Queenslanders

While it may seem like the privacy issues floating around TikTok have little to do with your insureds, the controversy is a good reminder of the growing consumer and political disillusion towards misuse of data, the reputational as well as financial risks that this environment can introduce, and the potential gaps that exist in cyber policies to address this threat.

Its also a learning opportunity for the insurance industry about the need to be fast-moving in identifying new privacy and cyber-related challenges, and providing relevant risk transfer solutions to clients, while also passing along useful risk mitigation tools so that insureds understand what the wrongful use and/or collection of data looks like within their own operations, and the consequences of not respecting regulations.

By staying ahead of the privacy curve, insurers can demonstrate their value and help clients avoid  in the worst-case scenario  becoming the next target of governments around the world.
Whether it's the fall breeze or an uneasiness to eat indoors due to the coronavirus pandemic, San Antonio foodies are searching for patio dining.

Yelp, the website of crowdsourced business reviews, recently released a 10-restaurant list of for al fresco feasting based off Senior Community Manager Fernanda Fonseca's recommendations. Fonseca knows a thing or two about the San Antonio scene - as a Yelp elite member she works as an on-the-scene ambassador to curate happenings and restaurants for the local newsletter and hosts events highlighting the businesses.

From shucking oysters in the open air at The Pearl or catching dinner and a movie at Ida Claire, Fonseca's collection is a buffet of options from downtown to outside Loop 1604.

Graze some of Yelp's patio picks below.
Facebook has announced that it is banning all adverts in support of QAnon.

Since September, Qanon content had been down-ranked by Facebooks algorithm, but not removed.

The social media site says it is now prohibiting anyone on our platform from running ads that praise, support or represent militarized social movements and QAnon."

Facebook will also direct users to credible child safety resources should they come across Qanon hashtags.

That is because QAnon uses phrases like #savethechildren to recruit and organise, due to its conspiratorial ideology that President Trump is secretly working to save the world from a satanic cult of paedophiles and cannibals.

In addition, content about QAnon and child safety is eligible for fact checking through our third-party fact-checking program," Facebook said.

Content that is debunked will be reduced in News Feed and filtered from Explore and hashtags on Instagram will receive a label (so that people who see it, try to share it or already have, will see more context), and it will be rejected as an ad.

The FBI has deemed QAnon a threat, and considers the theory a strong motivator for extremist violence.

In one example from earlier this year, a woman filmed herself on a high-speed car journey carrying several knives to take out Joe Biden.

In August, Facebook took down over 790 groups, 100 Pages and 1,500 ads tied to QAnon.

Additional restrictions were placed on over 1,950 Groups and 440 Pages on Facebook, as well as over 10,000 Instagram accounts.

Many other social media platforms have also restricted QAnon content. Twitter shut down thousands of accounts associated with the movement, saying it had the potential to inspire or motivate acts of violence.

More than a third of Republicans believe the QAnon conspiracy that Donald Trump is waging a secret war against a shadowy cabal of paedophile cannibals is "mostly true".

In the United Kingdom, QAnon believers are also a part of the anti-mask movement, which recently held a protest in Trafalgar Square.

At the core of the QAnon movement is the theory that an anonymous government insider called Q is posting secret codes on the 4chan message board /pol/ about an upcoming storm  a great change they believe will happen under the Trump presidency.

However, security researchers examining the codes have said that they are not actual codes, just random typing, based on an analysis of the letters and numbers used in the communications.

When asked about the conspiracy theory, Mr Trump said he was willing to put himself out there to help.

The Biden campaign said Mr Trump's response to QAnon was another example of the president "giving voice to violence".
COVID-19 has caused more deaths in men than women the world and researchers have been trying to find a link. A recent study by Turkish researches has found that it is probably SARS-CoV-2's ability to reduce testosterone levels in men's body. The connection between the high probability of contracting COVID-19 and low testosterone levels has been studied in this research. It was earlier believed that low testosterone in COVID-19 patients may not worsen the condition, however, the latest study believes that it may be the infection that is causing the levels of the male sex hormone to reduce.

Researchers from the University of Mersin, and the Mersin City Education and Research Hospital in Turkey, reported in The Aging Male journal: For the first time, our data suggest that Covid-19 might deteriorate serum testosterone level in SARS-CoV-2 infected male patients. Low serum total testosterone level at baseline has a significant increased risk for the ICU and mortality in patients with Covid-19,

They further noted that "Future studies related to testosterone treatment in this population would discover possible improvement in clinical outcomes with the testosterone treatment in SARS-CoV-2 infected hypogonadal male patients". Testosterone, the male sex hormone depletion linked with the vulnerability towards COVID-19 will need more research, however, the reason why more older men are having COVID-19 is being associated with the testosterone decreases on an average by 0.82 percent as men age. Lead author Selahittin Cayan, professor of urology, explained: Testosterone is associated with the immune system of respiratory organs, and low levels of testosterone might increase the risk of respiratory infections.

He further said, "Low testosterone is also associated with infection-related hospitalisation and all-cause mortality in male in ICU patients. So testosterone treatment may also have benefits beyond improving outcomes for Covid-19."

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 30, 2020 12:39 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
A neighbor who is organizing events to honor the life of 12-year-old Max Schollenberger, who died from abuse and torture, said she plans to raise funds to demolish the home where it happened.

We would like to raise money for the demolition of the house, Nichole Harner said Thursday, standing on the Lebanon County Courthouse steps. She joined a few others in a march through the city to raise awareness about child abuse. A lot of people may be against tearing down the house, but I feel like the foundation of that house doesnt deserve to be standing anymore because that poor boy suffered within those walls.

Schollenbergers dead body was found by authorities on May 26. He had been starved, beaten, and discovered in his own feces. Many people  including the familys neighbors  did not know he existed, let alone that he was abused.

The boys father, Scott Schollenberger Jr., 42, and his fathers fiancee, Kimberly Maurer, 35, have since been charged with homicide.

So much suffering happened in that house, Harner said. I feel that we as a community, and even across the nation if we are able to get this big enough, we would like to raise money to completely demolish the house. I dont think it deserves to be there anymore, and I dont think anybody should continue to feel the sorrow of that house as everybody passes it. I think we should place a memorial stone there for Max.

Additional efforts to raise child abuse awareness are underway, Harner said. A Facebook group called Set in Stone is dedicated specifically to Schollenberger. Members of the group paint rocks that will be placed at different locations throughout Lebanon.

Harner is a former Annville Township resident and lifetime Lebanon County resident who said shes driven past the Schollenbergers home countless times.

Wed just like to leave a mark around town because Max was forgotten about by his parents -- its something small, but he will not be forgotten, she said.

District Attorney Pier Hess Graf said the 12-year-old was kept for years in a dark bare room with the blinds duct-taped and shutters nailed shut. There was no electricity, toys or furniture, other than the bed on which the boys body was found, Graf said. She said police were called after Maurer told a neighbor about the 12-year-olds death.

Graf said Max Schollenberger never received medical care or attended school.

This tiny 12-year-old boy never knew the unconditional love from a family, Graf said during a press conference last month announcing the charges against Maurer and Scott Schollenberger. Max Schollenberger existed, she said. I will not call this living. He existed in a state of perpetual suffering.
Watertown, NY (13601)

Today

Cloudy with snow showers becoming a steady accumulating snow later on. Low 17F. Winds SW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of snow 80%. Snow accumulating 3 to 5 inches..

Tonight

Cloudy with snow showers becoming a steady accumulating snow later on. Low 17F. Winds SW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of snow 80%. Snow accumulating 3 to 5 inches.
WASHINGTON (Oct. 1, 2020)--Anti-vaccination discourse on Facebook increased in volume over the last decade, coalescing around the argument that refusing to vaccinate is a civil right, according to a study published today in the American Journal of Public Health. This finding could have serious public health implications as vaccine opponents who unite around a single argument could quickly mobilize into a political movement able to lobby state lawmakers for vaccine exemptions, the researchers say.

Led by David Broniatowski, an associate professor of engineering management and systems engineering at the George Washington University, researchers from GW, the University of Maryland and Johns Hopkins University examined more than 250,000 posts on 204 Facebook pages expressing opposition to vaccines between October 2009 and October 2019. While opposition to vaccines historically takes many forms, from concerns about safety to conspiracy theories about government malfeasance, the researchers found vaccine opponents online gravitate toward a "civil liberty" argument that individuals have the civil right to refuse to take a vaccine.

"Framing vaccine refusal as a civil right allows vaccine opponents to sidestep the science, and instead debate about values, especially the value of freedom of choice," Broniatowski said. "However, this is a case where one person's exercise of that freedom can hurt everyone else."

The study also showed that anti-vaccine discourse online evolved following three distinct events: the measles outbreak at Disneyland in 2015, the release of the film "Vaxxed" in 2016 and a worldwide measles outbreak in 2019.

The first increase in anti-vaccination Facebook posts came in 2015 after a measles outbreak, which started at Disneyland in California and sickened 125 people. According to the researchers, the Disneyland measles outbreak drew widespread attention to vaccine opposition followed by promotional campaigns conducted in Facebook pages framing vaccine refusal as a civil right and discussions about political mobilization and totalitarianism.

There was a further increase in anti-vaccination posts in 2016, especially on Facebook pages framing vaccine refusal as a civil right, after the release of "Vaxxed," a film directed by a discredited former physician. The researchers found the proportion of civil liberties topics discussed actually decreased during this time while the proportion of topics about the film increased. They suggest that these pages may have been targeted to disseminate promotional material advertising the movie.

"We found Facebook pages that promoted vaccine choice narratives were also sharing 'Vaxxed'-related promotional content," Amelia Jamison, a faculty research assistant at the University of Maryland's Center for Health Equity, said. "This continued even after the film was released and linked civil liberties based arguments with broader anti-vaccine claims."

"It appears that the movie's producers may have hijacked these pages to lay the groundwork for a political movement," Broniatowski added.

The researchers saw another spike in anti-vaccination posts in 2019, this time in posts to Facebook pages with U.S. states in their titles, such as "Michigan for Vaccine Choice" and "Health Freedom Minnesota." Content posted during this time included civil liberties discourse, mostly encouraging people to vote for or against certain state bills, attend political rallies and oppose perceived vaccine mandates and perceived censorship. These groups also discussed vaccine safety concerns and alternative medicine.

"Starting in 2019, we saw a large increase in these state-level pages, and especially in places considering vaccine-related legislation," Mark Dredze, the John C. Malone Associate Professor of Computer Science at Johns Hopkins University, said. "These pages make it easy for vaccine opponents to know how to vote in their local elections to make it easier to opt out of vaccination. Without a clear counter-argument from public health agencies, the average voter may not realize how important these bills are, and may not consider them when voting."

The researchers say their results suggest vaccine opponents are becoming increasingly organized with considerable political clout. As the push for a COVID-19 vaccine continues, the researchers recommend public health agencies and advocates develop effective messages for communicating fact-based rationales for vaccination. They also urge public health agencies and advocates to build strong relationships with state policymakers, so they may take an active stance when proposed laws or exemptions would further threaten public health. The researchers caution, however, that public health agencies and advocates need to consider different approaches and messages to engage with civil liberties arguments beyond the fact- or science-based rationales to vaccinate.

###

Broniatowski is the associate director of the GW Institute for Data, Democracy & Politics, which launched in 2019 with the support of the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. The institute's mission is to help the public, journalists and policy makers understand digital media's influence on public dialogue and opinion, and to develop sound solutions to disinformation and other ills that arise in these spaces.
The just-concluded presidential debate is already taking its place among various Wrestlemanias for its trash-talking, in-your-face, rather un-presidential performance by both men.

Less noticed amidst the histrionics was a statement by Joe Biden that speaks worlds about the true differences underlying the two parties in America today.

"Antifa is an idea, not an organization." When asked about dealing with violence in Portland, this was part of Biden's explanation.

Unfortunately, because Trump was so quick to countermand him, we did not get more color on this assertion.

However, just the statement itself, without embellishment or elaboration, is jaw-dropping. As an idea, does this mean that there is no structure, no control, no organization, as Biden put it?

Does this mean there are isolated people sitting around, hypothesizing about the need for anarchy, or better yet, totalitarian overthrow of the existing order, and then they somehow materialize simultaneously to undertake various acts of senseless violence?

Might it mean that the idea is in the eyes of those who oppose Antifa, ascribing to them all sorts of motives and aspirations, which happen to correlate with the rioting they undertake?

How real is this idea? Is it the province of fear and paranoia, as in, it's all in your head?

And why would it be problematic if Antifa were in fact (as it is in fact) an organization? Does it make it more of a threat and a concern if it's a real-life organization?

There is an analogy here to ISIS. Like Antifa, ISIS is amorphous, decentralized and seemingly, ephemeral. That made it initially easier to dismiss, as Barack Obama blithely did with his assertion that ISIS was "the J.V. team."

What Obama said was akin to Biden's assertion: it was a dismissal, a minimization, and a subtle way of criticizing those who took the threat seriously.

At least a J.V. team is a team. At least it exists. An idea might be a figment of our imaginations, a construct that we have created, rather than a definable (yes, organized) presence.

I don't believe that it is a major stretch to see in this depiction the core, the encapsulation of the differences between left and right in the U.S., and increasingly throughout the world, including, to my sorrow, Israel.

To the left, those committing violence are reacting, expressing the indignation warranted by various social ills or perceived injustices. There is no agenda other than righteous outrage, which galvanizes others to act similarly.

Such violence will end, appropriately, when the ills are addressed and the injustices are redressed. In the meantime, the violent perpetrators are expressing the idea of such outrage. There is nothing that goes beyond this outrage in terms of a larger agenda that the violence committed might serve.

This interpretation sounds dreamy and wish-like and seems to clearly violate Groucho Marx's Iron Law of Perception: "What are you gonna believe? Me, or what's right in front of your eyes?"

To those on the right, what's right in front of all of our eyes is Antifa as an organization that has morphed in different places at different times. It has a distinctly Marxist agenda that features violence against the institutions of the existing order, as well as individuals who are seen either to support that existing order or even just not to be supporting Antifa.

While Antifa might not have a clubhouse and a recording secretary, it is most definitely organized in the sense of having a much deeper and pervasive agenda than just redressing social ills.

The social ill that Antifa seeks to address is the existing liberal democratic constitutional order of the United States. While they might be in fact the J.V. team, it is not for the lack of trying, nor for the lack of big ideas, a mission, and the willingness to effect it.

In other words, Antifa means business.

Somehow, Antifa as idea means there is no big threat there, sort of like the political equivalent of "boys will be boys." And to those who, like President Trump, see the need to forcefully address their actions, well, all Trump is doing is exacerbating the situation. He is the one creating the true violence by harassing the "mostly peaceful protesters."

Unfortunately, history has shown that pooh-poohing violence, as Biden effectively did, has a bad track record. One-offs become patterns, and patterns become waves.

We got a bit of a taste of this during the summer. It was one thing for Seattle and Portland to see concerted violence (Portland's continues as we speak) because, well, they are heavy "blue" cities, and that reflects the temperament of the places.

But Kenosha represented something of a quantum leap, as it is a quiet, could be anywhere, small Midwestern city. Kenosha was the realization that Antifa violence could be coming to a town near you.

When Trump insists on clamping down on violence, he is mindful of the potential for unchecked or tolerated or wished away violence to grow and to intensify. It is based on a recognition that the will and willingness to act out by revolutionary groups such as Antifa only grow when not confronted.

At the end of the day, the importance of confronting Antifa has nothing to do with any social ills that might be used as pretexts for violence. By all means, we need to address ills and remediate grievances.

But we minimize, look the other way, or seek to dismiss the threat that groups like Antifa pose at our peril. The idea of Antifa is also the reality of Antifa. They must be confronted.

Douglas Altabef is the chairman of the Board of Directors of Im Tirtzu, Israel's largest grassroots Zionist movement, and a director of the Israel Independence Fund.

Image credit: Old White Truck via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0.
A jealous headteacher has been jailed for life after murdering his estranged wife and her new boyfriend then making a chilling 999 call announcing 'I slit their throats. There's blood everywhere'.

Rhys Hancock, 40, went berserk on New Year's Day and stabbed to death Helen Almey, 39, and Martin Griffiths, 48, after finding out she had found love again.

Hancock had crept in through the unlocked back door before inflicting over 100 wounds on the sleeping pair.

Details of the horror phone call he made to Derbyshire Police were revealed during his sentencing where he was given life with a minimum of 31 years.

He told the handler: 'I have just murdered my wife in her bed. I have just stabbed them.

'There is blood everywhere. His name is Martin Griffiths.

'This has just happened. My children are safe at my mother's house.'

When police arrived they found him covered in blood as he told them 'I'm hardly going to deny it; look at me'.

Hancock, of Etwall, Derbys, had already pleaded guilty at Derby Crown Court in July to two counts of murder via video link.

PE teacher Ms Almey and Mr Griffiths, a company director of a marketing firm, were discovered in a pool of blood at the 400,000 property on New Zealand Lane just after 4am.

The new couple died from stab wounds after being found by police at the detached property Ms Almey previously shared with Hancock in Duffield, Derbys.

Her Honour Judge Nirmal Shant QC said: 'What you did that night has deprived two families of the people they love and no sentence I impose will seem adequate to them and nothing I do can fill the undoubted void that the deaths of Helen Hancock and Martin Griffiths have left in their lives.

'Your actions that night left your three children without a mother and you left Martin's family without a son and his children without a father.'

The police mugshot of Rhys Hancock, 40, which was released after he was jailed for life

Victim: Mother-of-three Helen Hancock (nee Almey, pictured), 39, was stabbed to death alongside her new partner Martin Griffiths in the early hours of New Year's Day

Rhys Hancock (pictured), the 40-year-old husband of Helen Hancock murdered the couple

Derbyshire Police confirmed that it had referred itself to Britain's police watchdog the IOPC in the wake of the deaths 'due to contact between Mrs Hancock and officers prior to the incident' - police are pictured during their investigations on Thursday January 2 in Duffield, Derbyshire

Opening the case against Hancock today, prosecutor Michael Auty QC first told Derby Crown Court about a phone call made by his mother Denise to police at 4.11am on New Year's Day, in which she said: 'Please you need to go.

'She has been with another man. My son found out on Friday night.

'He now has two knives and is on his way there. He is in his car. His name is Rhys Hancock.

'I saw him take the knives.'

Mr Auty then read the transcript of another call to the court, this time from Hancock himself to the 999 operator.

He said the murderer was arrested outside the former marital home in Duffield at 4.31am.'

Continuing to describe what he told officers, Mr Auty said: 'He explained that he had tried initially getting into the house through the front door, but the key was obviously in the lock.

Estranged: Helen Hancock (nee Almey) was found dead at the home she once shared with her estranged headteacher husband, Rhys Hancock (pictured together)

Hours after the tragedy Claire Griffiths (right) changed her cover photo on Facebook to a picture of her with her estranged husband in happier times. They are believed to have separated in 2019

Investigation: A double murder probe underway in Duffield after police had been called to the scene at 4am

Family of the victims reveal their agony The family of the estranged wife of brutal double murderer Rhys Hancock have said her death has left a "huge hole in our lives". In victim impact statements read to Derby Crown Court, Helen Hancock's father Trevor Almey and her sister Jane Morley said the attack had "turned our world inside out and upside down". Mr Almey's statement, read by prosecutor Michael Auty QC, said: "Helen was a beautiful, vibrant and outgoing person who loved and lived life to the full. "Helen's murder has deprived us of a beautiful, thoughtful and lovely daughter. "It has turned our world inside out and upside down." Mr Almey also described the impact his daughter's death had had on her children. He said: "They have not only lost their mum, they have also lost their dad. "We know that life will never be the same for them again. "Helen's death has left a huge hole in our lives." Mr Almey added: "I never thought for one second I would outlive any of my children." Mrs Morley also spoke of the impact the murders would have on Mrs Hancock's children. She said: "They now have no mum to cuddle them when they're upset. They have been left without any parents. "She was my sister. I love her and I miss her. Helen was so much more than a sister." Martin Griffiths's family also paid tribute to their son through victim impact statements read to the court. Mr Griffiths's mother Jacqueline said: "Every aspect of our lives was touched by Martin. I have nightmares. "It is like losing a precious piece of a jigsaw." Speaking of what Hancock's actions had done to her family, Mr Griffiths's mother continued: "He has destroyed our lives - we will never recover." Advertisement

'He then went around to the back door, which they had left unlocked, and then gone upstairs to the bedroom and stabbed them both.'

Mr Auty said paramedics arrived at around 4.43am at Hancock's former marital home.

The court heard that Paul Whitfield, a clinical operations manager with the East Midlands Ambulance Service, described the scene as a 'blood bath'.

Mr Auty told the court Mr Whitfield had said: 'In over 17 years' experience, it was ... the most violent incident he had ever seen.'

The prosecuting barrister said Martin Griffiths was pronounced dead at 4.48am and, after resuscitation attempts, Helen Hancock shortly followed at 4.55 am.

Derby Crown Court heard Helen Hancock had suffered 66 separate injuries in the brutal attack - with 28 of those seen on the head and neck.

Mr Auty said her injuries were 'in keeping with the use of severe force'.

The court then heard Martin Griffiths suffered 37 injuries at the hands of Hancock, with eight seen on the face and neck and nine on the torso - four of which were stab wounds.

Pathologist Dr Stuart Hamilton said in a statement that both victims died as a result of stab wounds.

Addressing Hancock's formal interviews to police, Mr Auty said the defendant had taken both landline telephones from his mother's house and had attempted to locate her mobile in order to prevent her from alerting police.

In his interview with police, Hancock said: 'I took everything. There's two phones in my pockets.

'I took her emergency button. I didn't know where her mobile was.

'I raced there; the back door was open.

'I tried to open the front door, but the key was obviously in. I went around the back and they and they left the back open.

'I walked in, walked upstairs and I stabbed them. I'm sorry.'

Explaining what Hancock's movements were before travelling 10 miles to his former marital home, Mr Auty said he had told his mother 'I feel like I want to kill them'.

Hancock then went to the kitchen and returned moments later with two kitchen knives - an 18cm long chef's chopping knife and a 30-32cm long knife intended for slicing.

Mr Auty said his mother, 'reminded him he had three beautiful children'.

Hancock asked his mother 'what would happen if he left', to which she replied she would 'call the police'.

A cordon in place at the property (pictured) where Helen and her new partner were murdered

Police combing the street for evidence that will link the killer to the scene where a new couple died on New Year's Day

Officers were on ladders inspecting the roof and pulling up drains in Duffield as they look for clues and perhaps a murder weapon

Helen, who started using her maiden name Almey again, split with her husband Rhys in 2019

Continuing to describe what Hancock did before travelling to Duffield, Mr Auty said of the defendant's mother: 'She describes him as being calm and pacing.

'She says she had never seen him so calm. He told her he would get 25 or 30 years in prison and that he would be released when he was in his 60s.

'She was certain now that he had a settled intention.

'He told his mother that he loved her and then left the house, returning moments later and, bizarrely, shared a cup of tea with his mother one last time, as if it was his way of bidding her farewell.'

Continuing to describe what Hancock did before travelling to Duffield, Mr Auty said of the defendant's mother: 'She describes him as being calm and pacing.

'She says she had never seen him so calm. He told her he would get 25 or 30 years in prison and that he would be released when he was in his 60s.

Helen was well-known and much loved in her village, where many said they were bereft for her children

Family: Neighbours said Mrs Hancock (nee Almey) had recently started a relationship after separating from Mr Hancock, who is the father of her children, aged nine, seven and four

Forensic officers at the scene in Duffield, Derbyshire after two people were found dead

'She was certain now that he had a settled intention.

'He told his mother that he loved her and then left the house, returning moments later and, bizarrely, shared a cup of tea with his mother one last time, as if it was his way of bidding her farewell.'

Completing his opening, Mr Auty concluded by saying: 'There is no escaping these murders were premeditated, they were savage, the attack was merciless, there were elements of sadism and the intention was always ... and only to kill.

'Perhaps, above all else, they were committed in the coldest of blood.'
Want to manufacture BrahMos so that no country has audacity to cast evil eye on us: Rajnath Singh

MSP will be hiked continuously in coming years; No threat to farmers' land: Rajnath Singh

India

pti-Madhuri Adnal

New Delhi, Oct 01: Seeking to allay concerns of farmers over a new set of legislations amid continuing protests by some parties, senior union minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday assured the farm community that the MSP (minimum support price) will not only stay, but it will also be continuously increased too in coming years.

He also assured that no one can claim ownership of farmers' land in lieu of contract farming and said there are enough measures in the legislations to safeguard the interests of farmers.

Farm laws: Rahul Gandhi to hold tractor rallies in Punjab, Haryana from Oct 3-5

Opposition parties have alleged that farmers would be left at the mercy of corporates under the new laws, which have come into effect after the passage of three key bills in the recent monsoon session of Parliament.

Hitting out at Congress and other opposition parties, Singh said they are trying to create misunderstandings about the farm bills passed by Parliament. He also attacked Congress for the burning of a tractor by protesters from their youth wing. "A tractor was burnt. What is its logic? As weapons are sacred and respectable for soldiers, similarly tractors are to farmers. And I know this being a farmer, in any eventuality farmer will never burn his tractor. This was done by a political party for its political interest," he said.

The Congress' youth wing activists on Monday had set a tractor ablaze near India Gate in the national capital, a few hundred metres from the Rashtrapati Bhavan and Parliament, to protest the contentious farm laws.

Talking to a select group of journalists, the Defence Minister said, "Being a farmer's son myself, I want to make it clear that the Modi government will never do anything that is not in the interest of farmers. And these agriculture-related bills are for economic and social empowerment of farmers." Singh also accused the Opposition of creating a misunderstanding among people about the minimum support price (MSP) mechanism and the mandi system and categorically said that both will stay. "I want to assure farmers that the MSP will stay and rather it will be continuously increased in the coming years, in any case, it will not be abolished," he said adding that MSP in oilseeds and pulses increased by 23 times during the BJP-led NDA government.

On amendment in the APMC Act, Rajnath said the government is not ending the mandi system and rather it is giving more options to farmers to sell their produce including at more mandis. He also said that at times farmers were charged taxes and did not get the right MSP in mandis, but the new law will provide them more options to sell their produce.

Farm Bills: These laws have to be opposed for country's future, says Rahul Gandhi

Talking about contract farming, Singh said enough provisions have been made in the new law to safeguard the interests of farmers. Farmers will get the price of their produce as decided by them in the contract, and sufficient provisions have been incorporated to ensure that the price does not go below the contracted rate, he said. Singh further said if prices of their produce rise at a later stage, farmers will also get proportionately higher payments.

Accusing the Opposition of creating misapprehensions about the new law that it poses a threat to farmers' land, Singh said, "No power, in any case, can claim ownership of farmers' land using this bill. Enough measures have been made to safeguard the interests of farmers." Underlining that all agriculture-related legislations are meant for the social and economic empowerment of farmers, Singh appealed to farmers and their organisation to come and talk to him to clear any misgivings.

"I appeal to all farmers' organisations that if they have any issue please come and talk with us. We are ready to listen to their suggestions for the welfare of farmers. I have already started talking to farmers organisations to clear misgivings and misconceptions," he said.

The government has been under attack from the Opposition for the passage of three farms bill in the recently held monsoon session of Parliament.

The government presented these bills as pro-farmers, saying these will ensure that farmers get better prices for their produce and do not get subjected to regulations of 'mandis'.

It has also said that farmers will be now free to sell their produce to anyone and these legislations will increase competition and promote private investment, which will help in the development of farm infrastructure and generate employment. However, opposition parties have slammed the bills as "anti-farmers", claiming that the agriculture sector will be left to the fate of corporate interests.

President Ram Nath Kovind has already given assent to the three farm bills -- The Farmers'' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill, 2020, The Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020 and The Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill, 2020.
A $500 million investment to rebuild Michigans critical drinking water and wastewater infrastructure has been announced by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

The MI Clean Water initiative will provide $207 million to improve drinking water quality and $293 million to improve the states wastewater infrastructure while providing direct investments for communities to address critical water infrastructure upgrades and supporting over 7,500 Michigan jobs, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Gov. Whitmer said the historic investment marks a significant step toward her goal of ensuring Michiganders have access to clean and affordable water. Shes also urging the Legislature to take bold actions to invest in Michigans infrastructure to protect the states water systems from toxic contamination, such as Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS). She added that investments will be done without raising taxes.

Im calling on the legislature to authorize the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) to use the remainder of the voter-approved 2002 Great Lakes Water Quality bond during this legislative session, said Governor Whitmer. Michiganders are tired of waiting for action, the time is now. We must all work together to improve the quality of the waters of our State.

According to the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), Michigans 2018 infrastructure report card included a D for drinking water infrastructure, a D- for stormwater infrastructure, and a C for wastewater infrastructure with an overall infrastructure grade of D+.

Mike Nystrom, Executive Vice President of Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association, said the investment is a significant and positive next step toward solving the decades-old problem of woefully under-funded infrastructure in Michigan that also help improve and protect the states public health.

We continue to call on Michigan voters to elect state legislators on Nov. 3 who will commit to passing a comprehensive long-term plan to fix our states massive unmet infrastructure needs, including our crumbling roads and bridges, our aging dams, water infrastructure, and our wastewater and stormwater systems, he said.

MI Clean Water includes a proposal combining federal dollars for lead service line replacement in low-income communities ($102.1 million) with bonding authority for water quality protection ($290 million), one-time General Fund appropriation for drinking water infrastructure and innovation ($105 million), and asset management grants ($2.9 million) to help communities develop, update, and improve their plans for wastewater and stormwater systems resulting in a comprehensive water infrastructure investment of $500 million in Michigans water systems.

Drinking water investments

Lead Service Line Replacement in Disadvantaged Communities Program  $102 million

Lead and Copper  Drinking Water Asset Management Grants  $37.5 million

PFAS and Emerging Contaminants  Contamination and Consolidation Grants  $25 million

Non-Lead Drinking Water Infrastructure Grants  $35 million

Affordability and Planning Grants  $7.5 million

Wastewater protection investments

Clean Water Infrastructure Grants (eliminating sanitary sewer overflows; correcting combined sewer overflows; increasing green infrastructure)  $235 million

Substantial Public Health Risk Grants (removing direct and continuous discharges of raw sewage from surface or ground water)  $20 million

Failing Septic System Elimination Program  $35 million

Stormwater, Asset Management, and Wastewater Grants  $3 million

According to the report card, its estimated that Michigan drinking water system owners are underfunding system improvements for Safe Drinking Water Act Compliance at between $284 million and $563 million every year. When it comes to wastewater infrastructure, the EPA estimates $690 million is needed for secondary treatment and $702 million is needed for conveyance system repair and improvement needs.

Currently, Michigan lacks a systematic approach to inventorying, operating and maintaining its stormwater infrastructure, according to ASCE, who added that unless a funding source is dedicated, Michigans stormwater infrastructure will continue to decline.

EGLE Director Liesl Clark calls the MI Clean Water initiative an exciting package of water protections that pulls together a wealth of resources to help ensure clean water for all Michiganders.

Now is the perfect time to invest state and federal dollars in a coordinated way to encourage job growth in water infrastructure jobs, she said. His work will ripple throughout both the economy and the systems that protect public health, strengthening both.

Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha, MSU College of Human Medicine pediatrician and professor, said Michigan is leading the nation to rebuild the critical infrastructure necessary to keep Michiganders healthy and safe.

It is proactive investments like this that will prevent future public health crises, reduce inequities, and ensure the promise of generations of Michiganders to come, she said.

Jim Nash, Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner, said this is a much needed initiative for communities large and small, adding the governor and legislative supporters deserve credit for recognizing the need.

For too long budget cuts at the state and federal level have left local communities responsible for costs that many cant afford, he said. This needs to be a first step because studies show we have a multi-billion dollar investment deficit that has to be made up if we want to have efficient and effective infrastructure for the future

In November 2002, Michigan voters overwhelmingly approved the Great Lakes Water Quality Bond Proposal, which authorized the sale of $1 billion in bonds to improve the states water infrastructure.
A man wanted over the shooting of a woman on an idyllic island was dramatically arrested after a teenage girl found him hiding in her holiday home.

The 27-year-old woman was seriously injured after being shot in the back on Bribie Island, before two men allegedly dumped her at the home of a family member on Thursday morning.

Footage shows the moment Queensland Police found one of the two accused hiding inside the garage of a family holiday home about 3.45pm on Thursday.

A teenage girl who was staying at the property with friends stumbled across him and called the police, 7News reported.

The man was dragged away from the home and into the back of a police car in handcuffs.

Once back at the station, the 27-year-old suspect was charged with two counts of burglary and one count each of receiving tainted property, possessing a weapon and unlawfully using a motor vehicle.

He will appear in the Redcliffe Magistrates Court on Friday.

A spokeswoman for Queensland Police confirmed that his co-accused, another 27-year-old man, turned himself in at Cleveland Police Station overnight.

He was charged with grievous bodily harm, dangerous conduct with a weapon and unlawful possession of a weapon.

He will appear before the Cleveland Magistrates Court on Friday.

Authorities on the sleepy island were forced to issue an emergency declaration after the two accused went on the run after the shooting

The man (pictured) was dragged away from the home and into the back of a police car in handcuffs

Authorities on the sleepy island were forced to issue an emergency declaration after the two accused went on the run after the shooting.

They revoked the order at 2.05pm on Thursday.

Detectives have indicated they believe the shooting may have been an accident, 7News reported.

Police Inspector Bob Hytch previously urged both men to hand themselves in 'before anyone else gets hurt... to build the story of what took place'.

'We believe it's quite probable that the incident may have been an accident,' he said.

The victim underwent surgery on Thursday and is expected to survive her injuries.

Mr Hytch said he understands the woman and two men were known to each other.
Zac Efron has reportedly moved to Sydney's Bondi Beach, after spending months quietly living in Byron Bay, on the far north NSW coast.

The High School Musical star, 32, was apparently spotted earlier this week at a 'little restaurant' on Bondi Road.

Former Bachelor winner Laura Byrne claimed on the Life Uncut podcast that she had seen 'Zac f**king Efron' and his entourage at the venue.

On the move: Zac Efron has reportedly moved to Sydney's Bondi Beach, after spending months quietly living in Byron Bay, on the far north NSW coast

Laura said: 'I walked past and I saw this guy in the window and I thought, "Ah, he's good looking," and I looked at his face and I was like, "Holy s**t, that's Zac Efron."'

'And he saw that I saw him, and he saw that I recognised him,' she added.

'It was 100 per cent Zac Efron. He's in Bondi - all you single ladies, get down here!'

Keeping a low profile: The High School Musical star, 32, was apparently spotted earlier this week at a 'little restaurant' on Bondi Road

The Hollywood actor has spent the past few months 'riding out' the coronavirus pandemic in Australia on a tourist visa.

He is believed to be dating a local woman named Vanessa Valladares, who until recently was a waitress at the Byron Bay General Store cafe.

Laura did not mention on her podcast if Zac was accompanied by Vanessa in Bondi.

Hotspot: Bondi, one of Australia's most iconic beaches, is located in Sydney's eastern suburbs

It comes after Woman's Day reported that Zac was 'torn' between his new romance Down Under and his acting career in America.

Since falling head over heels for 25-year-old Vanessa, the star apparently has friends worried he will never return to the United States.

'Zac's completely lost it over this girl and says he's never felt so free and alive - she cuts through all his Hollywood bulls**t,' a source claimed.

'He's really torn between his cosy scene with Vanessa and his crazy career,'

Spotted! Former Bachelor winner Laura Byrne (left) claimed on the Life Uncut podcast that she had seen 'Zac f**king Efron' (right) and his entourage at the venue

While Zac is living in Australia for the time being, he's expected to return to America in the coming months to film the Disney+ remake of Three Men and a Baby.

Because of border restrictions between Australia and the U.S., the only way for him and Vanessa to travel back and forth together would be to get married - and they are reportedly considering this as an option.

'I really think Zac's at the point where he'd marry Vanessa tomorrow if she said yes,' an insider told New Idea magazine.

Confirmed? 'It was 100 per cent Zac Efron. He's in Bondi - all you single ladies, get down here!' said Laura. Laura is pictured with her fiance, Matty Johnson, and their daughter, Marlie Mae

The Baywatch hunk is said to have met Vanessa in July when she was waiting tables at the General Store cafe on Bangalow Road in Byron Bay.

She has since quit her job and until recently was believed to be staying with Zac at his rented home in Belongil Beach.

Last month, Daily Mail Australia revealed that Zac had cancelled his scheduled flight back to Los Angeles.

Down Under: The Hollywood actor has spent the past few months 'riding out' the coronavirus pandemic in Australia on a tourist visa

'He was only planning to fly home if he had to,' a source said at the time. 'He didn't really want to go back to America.'

Zac had purchased the plane ticket several months ago in case his application for a visa extension was denied by the Department of Home Affairs.

But it seems his request to have his tourist visa extended from three months to 12 months was granted.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Zac's representative for comment.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belarus S.Aleinik meets the Ambassador of Israel

On September 29, 2020 the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Belarus, Sergei Aleinik, met with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the State of Israel to the Republic of Belarus, Alex Goldman-Shayman, on the occasion of the presentation of copies of Credentials.

The parties discussed key areas of Belarusian-Israeli cooperation in trade, economic, scientific, technical and humanitarian spheres.

Particular attention was paid to organizing high-level contacts, holding a meeting of the joint intergovernmental committee, political and consular consultations taking into account the development of the epidemiological situation.

Ambassador A.Goldman-Shayman expressed gratitude to the Belarusian side for the measures taken to provide assistance to the Hasidic pilgrims who stayed on the territory of the Republic of Belarus in September this year.

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KITCHENER  Booking a COVID test in Waterloo Region is so difficult, a Kitchener woman is driving more than 100 kilometres, to Grand Bend, to get tested after receiving an alert that she was potentially exposed to the virus.

I just want to do the right thing, said Rebecca Witmer.

She got an alert from the federal exposure notification app late Saturday night that sometime within the last 14 days, she had been in contact with someone who has tested positive for the virus. She immediately checked where she could tested locally, and since it was late, chose to register online to get an appointment at the testing centre on Westmount Road.

She got an automatic reply that she would soon be contacted with an appointment time, but has yet to hear after four days. She tried calling, but couldnt get through. She tried getting a test when three local pharmacies began offering testing on Tuesday, only to learn pharmacies dont test people who have potentially been exposed to an infected person.

She eventually managed to secure a test in Grand Bend, in Lambton County, on Thursday, almost five full days after she got the alert. It might take another four to seven days to get her results.

To make matters worse, she said the public health advice shes received has been contradictory and confusing.

The app said she should self-isolate at home. But it wasnt clear if her husband and stepson should also be self-isolating, so she called Public Health on Monday for help.

She was told to self-isolate together, that her husband and stepson can still go to work and school, but that all of them should monitor themselves for symptoms.

But Public Healths website says self-isolation means limiting contact even with others in ones home.

The advice seemed contradictory, and the whole process to get tested seemed slow, confusing, disconnected and inefficient.

It definitely feels like there is no cohesive plan, Witmer said. If youve been exposed, it should be a one-step testing process. It is confusing, and it doesnt need to be. I just want to do what Im supposed to do, Witmer said.

She stressed that she isnt interested in laying blame, but her experience has raised her fears about the effectiveness of the whole system.

I dont feel like the system is working, she said. How are we going to effectively isolate people and track them, if its so scattered, with mixed messaging and real frustration trying to get a test?

She fears that people who are finding it tough to book a test will try getting in at more than one site, further clogging the system and causing even more delays. She worries that the cumbersome process could discourage people from getting tested, or make them less inclined to self-isolate.

Asked about concerns Public Health may be giving confusing advice, spokesperson Julie Kalbfleisch said, We do our best to position ourselves as a reliable source of information and correct misinformation whenever we become aware of it.

I cannot imagine the stress this adds to someone already struggling alone, or in tense relationships, or for whom English isnt their first language, she adds.

Officials say they are doing their best to reduce wait times for tests, but that demand has been overwhelming.

Call volumes remain extremely high, the highest during the entire pandemic, said Dr. Joseph Lee, lead physician at the Centre for Family Medicine, which is a partner in the testing centre on Westmount Road. That centre is getting upwards of 1,000 calls a day, Lee said. The volume and demand are overwhelming the staff.

The high demand for tests has meant it can take a number of days to book a test at the testing site at 50 Bathurst Dr. in Waterloo, run by St. Marys Hospital, but that site is still accepting walk-ins, said Anne Kelly, a spokesperson for the hospital.

She said the hospital is in the process of revising the booking process for the Bathurst Drive site.

Our message to the public is that if you are in one of the priority groups, please get a test, Kelly said. We are endeavouring to make improvements in the wait times each and every day.
According to a report Wednesday by the Washington Post, the Trump administration is preparing a series of raids targeting immigrants in Democratic Party-led cities and jurisdictions across the US that have adopted so-called sanctuary policies. The Post cited three federal officials who described the move as part of Trumps effort to present himself as the law and order candidate in the run-up to the presidential election.

The planned Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation, informally known as the sanctuary op, will reportedly begin in California as early as this week. The raids would subsequently spread to other cities, including Denver and Philadelphia.

Two officials said that acting Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Chad Wolf is expected to travel to at least one of the jurisdictions where the operation will take place to emphasize Trumps assertion that that local officials have failed to protect residents from alien criminals.

President Donald J. Trump and U.S. Attorney General William Barr, in the Cabinet Room of the White House. (Official White House Photo by Tia Dufour)

The operation is widely seen as a political maneuver by Trump, considering the organization already rounds up and incarcerates undocumented immigrants on a regular basis throughout the country.

Trumps latest maneuver in his war on immigrants cannot be separated from his effort to carry out a coup detat and establish a presidential dictatorship. Trump is making it clear that he will utilize all resources in his possession to suppress opposition to his repudiation of election results in the event he loses the popular vote.

Federal agents, including officers from ICE and Customs and Border Protection, are already playing a role in suppressing protests against police violence across the US. There is no doubt that the increased presence of ICE in cities due to the sanctuary op will be utilized in Trumps strategy.

Throughout his presidency Trump has railed against cities that have limited police agencies cooperation with ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Trump has blamed city mayors that implement the policies, often Democrats, for a sharp rise in violence and crime throughout the US. The same accusations were levied against officials who refused to accept federal intervention in recent protests against police brutality.

ICE officials have repeatedly threatened to send additional agents to cities and counties considering sanctuary policies, if they continue advocating for them. Mike Alvarez, an ICE spokesman, claimed jurisdictions that dont cooperate with ICE increase the risks facing immigration agents and the public.

Generally speaking, as ICE has noted for years, in jurisdictions where cooperation does not exist and ICE is not allowed to assume custody of aliens from jails, ICE is forced to arrest at-large criminal aliens out in the communities instead of under the safe confines of a jail, he told the Post.

Sanctuary protocols restrict the extent to which local law enforcement can cooperate with federal immigration officials. Places with the policies in place generally refuse to hold immigrants in jail for longer than they are required to so that ICE agents can arrest them after they leave custody. Additionally, sanctuary cities do not check the immigration status of suspects arrested or detained for minor criminal offenses.

Federal immigration officers in sanctuary jurisdictions are still allowed to detain individuals they suspect of being undocumented immigrants. However, without the cooperation of local law enforcement, ICE agents are left to do their own dirty work of monitoring when suspected individuals are being released from jail.

Many of the countrys largest cities have adopted sanctuary policies. According to the most recent statistics, 70 percent of the arrests ICE makes occur after the organization has been notified of an immigrants pending release from state prison or local jail. In 2019, the agency claimed it arrested more than 160,000 immigrants this way.

ICE officials have used the issue to whip up xenophobic fears, claiming that sanctuary policies increased a backlog of at-large criminal and fugitive aliens ICE seeks to apprehend.

In a statement, ICE official Henry Lucero said the agency cannot stand by idly while knowing the public is being misled about the role ICE plays in keeping the public safe.

The fact is local policies prohibiting agencies from working with ICE put you in danger and waste police resources, he said. The public should hold its leaders accountable and demand to know what type of criminals are being released from local custody instead of turned over to ICE.

The Trump administration has repeatedly threatened to carry out anti-immigrant operations in sanctuary cities throughout his presidency. A proposal last year suggested busing migrants from the US-Mexico border into the streets of San Francisco and other sanctuary cities. Another operation purposefully targeted migrant parents with children. Trump has also threatened to revoke federal funding from jurisdictions refusing to comply with ICE.

On Monday, in another political action, ICE announced a dozen arrests in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. The community was featured in the Netflix documentary series Immigration Nation for electing a sheriff in 2018 who ended local law enforcements cooperation with ICE. ICE officials claimed that six of the arrests included immigrants with criminal backgrounds and that sanctuary policies left them free to reoffend until their capture.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-02 01:58:13|Editor: huaxia

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Xinhua file photos of Russian President Vladimir Putin, U.S. President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron

Putin, Trump and Macron, representing the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Minsk Group Co-Chairs countries, condemn in the strongest terms the escalation of violence taking place on the contact line in the Nagorno-Karabakh region in a joint statement.



MOSCOW, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- Leaders of Russia, the United States and France on Thursday called for an immediate cessation of hostilities between countries involved in the armed conflict in the Nagorno-Karabakh region, according to the Kremlin.

In a joint statement published by the Kremlin, Russian President Vladimir Putin, U.S. President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron, representing the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Minsk Group Co-Chairs countries, condemn in the strongest terms the escalation of violence taking place on the contact line in the Nagorno-Karabakh region.

"We mourn the victims and express our condolences to the families of those killed and wounded," it read.

"We also call on the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan to immediately undertake commitments in good faith and without setting preconditions to resume negotiations on the essence of the settlement with the assistance of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs," said the statement.

Armenia and Azerbaijan have been at loggerheads over the mountainous region of Nagorno-Karabakh since 1988. Peace talks have been held since 1994 when a ceasefire was reached, but there have been occasional minor clashes along the border.

A new round of armed conflict broke out Sunday morning along the contact line of the Nagorno-Karabakh region. The clashes, which are still going on, have reportedly caused heavy casualties and equipment loss. 
Coal baron Robert Murray, who for years opposed more stringent coal dust regulations in the United States, has now applied for federal benefits to treat his black lung disease.

Murray, whose company Murray Energy filed for bankruptcy last year, filed a claim with the Department of Labor seeking to access federal benefits to treat his disease, according to West Virginia public radio.

Black lung disease is caused by prolonged exposure to coal dust.

The 80-year-old said on his application that he is still board chairman of Murray Energy but that he can no longer serve as president and CEO due to his health.

He said is heavily dependent on oxygen and is 'near death' and is entitled to benefits after working in underground mines for 63 years.

The former CEO, who is an ally of President Donald Trump, has fought federal mine safety regulations for years.

Coal baron Robert Murray, who for years opposed more stringent coal dust regulations in the United States, has now applied for federal benefits to treat his black lung disease

WHAT IS BLACK LUNG DISEASE? Black lung disease is officially known as pneumoconiosis. It is caused by inhaling dust or prolonged exposure to coal dust. The disease has no cure and only some symptoms can be treated. It gets its name because the disease makes a person's lungs look black instead of pink. Many who have the disease struggle to breathe as their lungs are slowly stifled by tiny dust and particles trapped there. Advertisement

His company filed an unsuccessful lawsuit in 2014 over regulations to cut the amount of coal dust in coal mines to reduce the incidence of black lung disease.

The company's lawsuit had argued that the regulations were overly burdensome and costly to the industry.

Murray said in the claim that he worked underground while supervising operations for several years.

'During my 63 years working in underground coal mines, I worked 16 years every day at the mining face underground and went underground every week until I was age 75,' Murray wrote.

Murray declined to speak on the record with the news outlets but said he has black lung from working in underground mines and is entitled to benefits.

He also disputed that he fought regulations to stop black lung and threatened to file a lawsuit if a story was published indicating he fought federal regulations and benefits, the outlets said.

Murray told NPR last year that his lung disease was not caused by working in underground mines.

'It's idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. IPF, and it is not related to my work in the industry. They've checked for that,' Murray said at the time.

The 80-year-old (pictured in 2007) said on his application that he is still board chairman of Murray Energy but that he can no longer serve as president and CEO due to his health. His company emerged last month from federal bankruptcy protection under a new name and ownership group

'And it's not - has anything to do with working in the coal mines, which I did for 17 years underground every day. And until I was 76, I went underground twice a week.'

Murray Energy Holdings emerged last month from federal bankruptcy protection under a new name and ownership group.

The new company, the St Clairsville, Ohio-based American Consolidated Natural Resources Inc., is the largest privately owned US coal operator with active mines in Alabama, Kentucky, Ohio, West Virginia and Utah.

Murrays company had over $150 million in black lung compensation obligations to its miners when it filed for bankruptcy in October, according to court filings.

When a mining company goes bankrupt, the responsibility for black lung compensation payments is often shifted to the federal governments Black Lung Disability Trust Fund.

The Labor Departments Mine Safety and Health Administration, which administers the benefits, did not respond to a request for comment.

Mike McCown, spokesman for American Consolidated Natural Resources, Murray Energys new name after emerging from bankruptcy, declined to comment.

The Black Lung Disability Trust Fund is funded through a $1.10 per ton excise-tax on production of underground coal but runs a massive debt and is at risk of insolvency, according to the U.S. General Accountability Office.

The National Mining Association continues to fight to slash the tax in half.
ATLANTA, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- 'Staycation' was undoubtedly the travel buzzword of 2020. With travel restrictions limiting people jetting off to far-flung destinations for some of the summer months this year, Americans looked to explore what was on their very own doorstep more so than ever before.

IHG Hotels & Resorts, which includes brands such as Holiday Inn, InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Staybridge Suites and Kimpton, reveals new data about the 2020 U.S. summer staycation and the impact on hotel bookings.

Brian Hicks, SVP Commercial and Revenue Management, IHG Hotels & Resorts commented on the findings; "People are as eager as ever to travel, but the pandemic has understandably changed priorities when travelling. With enhanced cleaning measures through our IHG Way of Clean program and more flexible booking policies, people have continued traveling this summer, with many opting for a staycation in the U.S."

Home is where the heart is  with international travel restrictions in place this summer, domestic travel was understandably the option of choice, with people choosing to explore closer to home. More than half stayed in hotels within driving distance (300km) of their home, whereas the other half explored further afield within the U.S. 85% of guests also chose to travel to their destination by car.

 with international travel restrictions in place this summer, domestic travel was understandably the option of choice, with people choosing to explore closer to home. More than half stayed in hotels within driving distance (300km) of their home, whereas the other half explored further afield within the U.S. The ruralization of travel  During the summer of 2020, the Florida Panhandle made IHG Hotels & Resorts' top 10 leisure destinations, and West Texas , the Carolina Coast, and Atlanta rose in the rankings too, while big cities dropped down the list. According to Brian Hicks , " With a resurgence of more rural domestic travel, we've definitely seen travellers developing a greater appreciation for exploring the small towns and cities in their backyards. This rediscovery of the beauty that can be found in places that may otherwise have been overlooked will likely continue when travel resumes to pre-pandemic levels."

 During the summer of 2020, while big cities dropped down the list. According to , " A hotel (almost) never sleeps  The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the everyday lives of billions of people globally, severely damaging economies and posing the biggest challenge the travel industry has ever faced. Despite many people putting their life on hold and some businesses coming to a halt, for IHG Hotels & Resorts the proportion of business and leisure bookings was similar in June  August 2020 compared to previous years , in part due to due to rooms being booked by housing frontline workers and other emergency services. Brian Hicks commented that, "All around the world, from China to the U.S., we've worked closely with various organizations, governments and our hotel owners to assist our first responders and others in need by providing accommodations in hundreds of our hotels globally."

 The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the everyday lives of billions of people globally, severely damaging economies and posing the biggest challenge the travel industry has ever faced. Despite many people putting their life on hold and some businesses coming to a halt, , in part due to due to rooms being booked by housing frontline workers and other emergency services. commented that, Spontaneity is key  With so much uncertainty and regularly changing restrictions, hotel booking lead times have shortened compared to previous years. 63% of bookings happened within 2 days of stay, compared to 39% during the same period last year. IHG Hotels & Resorts introduced flexible booking options such as Book Now, Pay Later to give travelers enhanced peace of mind and the flexibility they need.|

Booking window 2020 2019 0-2 days 63% 39% 3-7 days 19% 19% 8-90 days 22% 39%

Age is more than a number  The number of 65-year olds and above travelling dropped from 18% in 2019 to 15% in 2020 (March to August). Given the nature of the virus and the recommendations for older populations, unsurprisingly, older guests saw the steepest decline in activity during the peak of COVID-19 in April. Since then, while other age groups have witnessed a steady recovery, it's much stronger among younger guests (35 years old and below).

NOTES TO EDITORS

Based on US IHG Hotels & Resorts Bookings from June  August 2020, unless otherwise stated.

About IHG

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) [LON:IHG,NYSE:IHG (ADRs)] is a global organisation with a broad portfolio of hotel brands, including Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas, Regent Hotels & Resorts, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, Hotel Indigo, EVEN Hotels, HUALUXE Hotels and Resorts, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts, voco, Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts , Holiday Inn Express, Holiday Inn Club Vacations, avid hotels, Staybridge Suites, Atwell Suites, and Candlewood Suites.

IHG franchises, leases, manages or owns more than 5,900 hotels and approximately 883,000 guest rooms in more than 100 countries, with over 1,900 hotels in its development pipeline. IHG also manages IHG Rewards Club, our global loyalty programme, which has more than 100 million enrolled members.

InterContinental Hotels Group PLC is the Group's holding company and is incorporated in Great Britain and registered in England and Wales. Approximately 400,000 people work across IHG's hotels and corporate offices globally.

Visit www.ihg.com for hotel information and reservations and www.ihgrewardsclub.com for more on IHG Rewards Club. For our latest news, visit: https://www.ihgplc.com/en/news-and-media and follow us on social media at: https://twitter.com/ihgcorporate, www.facebook.com/ihgcorporate and www.linkedin.com/company/intercontinental-hotels-group.

SOURCE IHG Hotels & Resorts

Related Links

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The Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has chastised the intended decision by the National Democratic Congress(NDC) flagbearer John Dramani Mahama to construct more mortuaries in the Zongo communities as part of numerous intervention plans to help develop Zongos and deprived communities.

According to him, the Zongo communities need more schools and other infrastructural projects which will enable students to improve upon their educational background.

The Vice President disclosed this when he was addressing residents of Accra Newton on Wednesday as part of his four-day campaign tour of the Greater Region.

Dr Bawumia said: We are going to build a model senior high school in the Zongo community in every region, so, we will start with 16 model SHSs so that our children will have an opportunity to attend those schools.

That will be the start for next year.

Our policy is not one Zongo, one mortuary.

We are not thinking of mortuary.

We are thinking of schools; we want to develop our Zongos with schools and not mortuary, the Vice-President said.

He said such promise is an infantile one as the people leaving in Zongo communities deserve better.

Former President John Dramani Mahama pledged that the next NDC government administration will build more mortuaries in the Zongo communities.

The NDC flagbearer John Mahama in an interview on Woezor TV said the mortuaries will help Muslims preserve the dead in Zongo areas.

---KingdomfmOnline
The companies will jointly commercialize the medicine to make it available to physicians and patients across Japan

Gilead Sciences, Inc. and Eisai Co., Ltd. have announced that the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has granted Gilead K.K. (Tokyo, Japan) regulatory approval of Jyseleca (filgotinib 200 mg and 100 mg tablets), a once-daily, oral, JAK1 preferential inhibitor for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in patients who have had an inadequate response to conventional therapies, including the prevention of structural joint damage.

Gilead Japan will hold the marketing authorization of Jyseleca in Japan and will be responsible for product supply of Jyseleca in Japan, while Eisai will be responsible for product distribution of Jyseleca in Japan in RA.

The companies will jointly commercialize the medicine to make it available to physicians and patients across Japan.

Gilead is developing Jyseleca in collaboration with Galapagos NV (Mechelen, Belgium). The two companies are conducting global studies investigating the potential role of Jyseleca in a variety of diseases, including the previously reported Phase 3 SELECTION trial in ulcerative colitis.

Despite progress in the treatment of RA, existing therapies have not enabled many patients to reach the treatment goals recommended in clinical guidelines. There continues to be a need for effective and well-tolerated new treatment options, said Tsutomu Takeuchi, MD, Professor of Internal Medicine and Chief of Rheumatology at the School of Medicine, Keio University. Jyseleca is a new JAK inhibitor that, in clinical trials, has demonstrated clinical improvement, low disease activity and clinical remission in a broad patient population, including patients with inadequate response to biologics.
This cannot be good news, said David Henig, director of the U.K. Trade Policy Project at the European Center for International Political Economy, a research institute, who added that the decision over legal action illustrated the tensions between the two sides. There is an awful lot to be done in two to four weeks to get a trade deal done.

Britain formally quit the European Union on Jan. 31 but is subject to its economic rules until the end of this year. Even with a trade agreement, some disruption is certain after that date as new checks on freight are implemented at busy cross-Channel ports. But without a deal the economic damage would be significantly worse, especially for Britain.

At the heart of the legal case launched on Thursday are parts of the withdrawal agreement designed to prevent the creation of a hard border between Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom, and Ireland, which will remain in the European Union. There are currently no border controls between the two, allowing for the free movement of goods and people.

Sections of a proposed law being considered by the British Parliament, known as the United Kingdom internal market bill, would override that withdrawal agreement by allowing British ministers to take key decisions on Northern Irish trade unilaterally, rather than through a process involving Brussels.

Britain, which has acknowledged that its plans would violate international law, has 30 days to respond, and any legal action could take months to unfold. On Thursday, the British government said it would respond later to the move from Brussels. We have clearly set out our reasons for introducing the measures, it said in a statement.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. The Foreign Ministry of Armenia has decided to recall its Ambassador from Israel for consultations, ARMENPRESS reports MFA spokesperson of Armenia Anna Naghdalyan said on October 1.

The Armenian Foreign Ministry has clearly expressed its position over the Israeli arms sales to Azerbaijan. This issue has always been on our bilateral agenda. Providing modern arms by Israel to Azerbaijan is inadmissible for us, we have many times used our diplomatic channels to tell our Israeli partners about it and mentioned that its particularly insulting when it takes place when Azerbaijan, supported by Turkey, carried out a large-scale aggression against Artsakh and Armenia. The Israeli side continues providing arms to Azerbaijan and this behavior is inadmissible for us. Given the aforementioned, the Foreign Ministry has decided to recall the Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia to Israel for consultations, Naghdalyan said.

There are media reports that two airplanes carrying arms landed in Azerbaijan from Israel today. In 2016, during the 4-day April war between Arrtsakh and Azerbaijan, Azerbaijani forces used Israeli drones.

Editing and translating by Tigran Sirekanyan
Leaders and workers of the staged a protest in the Civil Lines area here on Thursday, demanding a complete reopening of the weekly markets in the city.

Some of the protesters, including vice presidents Mudit Agarwal and Ali Mehndi, were detained by police as they tried to march towards Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's residence, party leader Parvez Alam said, adding that they were taken to the Maurice Nagar police station.

president Anil Kumar lashed out at the police for the "misbehaviour" of its personnel with Agarwal and Mehndi during the protest.

The weekly markets in the city have been allowed to open on a trial basis by the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA). These markets were closed since March after a nationwide lockdown was clamped in view of the COVID-19 situation.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A 14-year-old girl was murdered and dumped in a field outside a village under Gopiganj police station area of Bhadohi district on Thursday noon, police said.

The incident took place when the girl went out of her house for some work.

Relatives of the girl said she went outside for some work during noon. When she didnt return for over one and a half hour, they launched a search for her. Later, they found her body lying in a millet field. There was blood all around. The kin rushed her to a hospital where doctors declared her brought dead, said a police official.

The officer said the unidentified assailants stoned the girl to death and dumped her body in the field.

Superintendent of police, Bhadohi, Rambadan Singh, who inspected the spot, said a case had been registered against unidentified assailants under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

A team has been constituted to identify the assailants involved in the incident and ensure their arrest.

Asked if the girl was also raped, the SP said he cant say anything about it now.

The body has been sent for the post mortem. The examination will ascertain whether she was raped or not. We are investigating the matter, the SP said.
Democratic U.S. presidential nominee Joe Biden's campaign will send supporters to solicit possible voters in person, two aides said on Thursday, shifting tactics in the final weeks of the race after shunning door-knocking efforts in the face of the coronavirus pandemic.

Several hundred volunteers will fan out across several critical states in support of Biden and with new training from the campaign, focused on voters who may be difficult to reach by phone or online.

The Biden campaign's effort is starting in several key states - Nevada, Michigan, New Hampshire and Pennsylvania - with plans to expand the effort over the remaining 33 days until the Nov. 3 presidential election.

The former vice president's lightweight door-knocking operation has drawn critiques from allies who argued that in-person outreach can be done safely even in the face of an ongoing pandemic and is more powerful a tool for persuasion.

Allies also warned the campaign that a low-key field operation by the campaign could be hurting them in key battleground states, where Republican President Donald Trump's campaign has been aggressively recruiting voters in person. But the campaign has maintained that its remote outreach was reaching voters and engaging them successfully.

The campaign had already resumed dropping pamphlets and will start in-person conversations in the coming days, with a focus on doing so safely, one of the people said.

(Reporting by Trevor Hunnicutt in New York; editing by Jonathan Oatis)
Advertisement

Heiress Elettra Lamborghini has married Afrojack in a lavish ceremony at the luxurious Villa Balbiano in Lake Como, Italy.

Dressed in a beautiful sheer white fishtail gown with lace detailing, Elettra, 26, the granddaughter of motoring company founder Ferruccio Lamborghini, exchanged vows with the Dutch DJ, 33, in a beautiful ceremony overlooking the water with their friends and family in attendance on Saturday.

Elettra - who made a fleeting appearance on UK reality series Geordie Shore in 2017 - and Afrojack - real name Nick van de Wall - married exactly two years after they first starting dating, and 10 months after announcing their engagement in December 2019.

Wedding bells: Heiress Elettra Lamborghini, 26, has married Dutch DJ Afrojack, 33, in a lavish ceremony at the luxurious Villa Balbiano in Lake Como, Italy, exactly two years after they started dating

Elettra looked nothing short of incredible in the stunning sheer white mermaid gown with floral lace and pearl detailing by Galia Lahav, whose couture pieces range from 5,400 ($7,000) to 15,500 ($20,000).

Meanwhile Afrojack opted for a classic black tuxedo as he tenderly kissed his new wife's hand before they were declared married.

Among the guests in attendance at the ceremony were the DJ David Guetta, who shared a glimpse of the wedding and the event's vast fireworks display on Instagram.

Incredible: The granddaughter of motoring company founder Ferruccio Lamborghini exchanged vows with the Dutch DJ in a beautiful ceremony

Romantic: Elettra looked nothing short of incredible in the stunning sheer white gown with a floral lace embroidery as she kissed her new husband for the first time

Gorgeous: The couple exchanged their vows during a lavish ceremony overlooking the lakes surrounding the villa, with their friends and family in attendance

Gorgeous: The bride accompanied her sheer white lace gown with a matching veil and a bouquet of white roses and daisies

Sweet: Afrojack recited his vows to his wife-to-be (left), before the couple were declared married, 10 months after announcing their engagement

Elettra's father Tonino Lamborghini was also in attendance to proudly walk her down the aisle dressed in a smart grey three-piece suit.

Pretty: The couple sported matching gold wedding bands as they exchanged vows

As well as descending from the founder of one of the world's biggest car companies, Elettra rose to prominence as a social media star in her native Italy, and was even dubbed the country's 'Paris Hilton'.

She joined the cast of Geordie Shore's Spanish counterpart Super Shore in 2016, and eventually appeared as part of the original series' Newcastle cast for one series in 2017.

No stranger to clashing with her co-stars, Elettra previously admitted she has no interest in joining the family business, telling Quien: 'I don't work, but with respect to everyone who works, I have things I need to do, things that have to do with my figure and something in fashion.'

Meanwhile Afrojack - who dated Paris Hilton for six months in 2012 - appeared on Guetta's 2015 track Hey Mama as well as Pitbulls chart-topper Give Me Everything in 2011.

Reality star: Elettra rose to prominence as a social media star in her native Italy, and she joined the cast of Geordie Shore's Spanish counterpart Super Shore in 2016, and then appeared as part of the original series' Newcastle cast in 2017

Suave: Elettra's father Tonino Lamborghini was also in attendance to proudly walk her down the aisle dressed in a smart grey three-piece suit

In love: Meanwhile Afrojack - who dated Paris Hilton for six months in 2012 - appeared on Guetta's 2015 track Hey Mama as well as Pitbulls chart-topper Give Me Everything in 2011

Adorable: The couple shared their first kiss after being declared husband and wife, exactly two years after beginning their relationship

Following the ceremony, Elettra shared a glimpse of the grand reception with her fans on Instagram, after changing into a white sequinned gown.

Penning a lengthy caption the newlywed, translated from Italian, wrote: 'I want to dedicate this post and my following stories (although I'm not so much one who does these things) to thank all those present and all the people who have been part of the best day of our life...

'Literally everything was perfect, see the smiles and tears of all my family and friends were priceless... our friends and relatives all said that the atmosphere was so full of true love that it made everything magical .... but without of your company would not have been the same... THANKS

'And a special thanks to @farinagiorgi for putting up with me all these months and to @enzomiccio for doing the same.... the stress was a lot but it was worth it @villa_balbiano.'

Smart: Tonino - who is also heir to the Lamborghini dynasty - was dressed in his smart grey three-piece suit as he arrived for the ceremony
The past month also saw 33,390 deaths due to COVID-19, which is around 33.84 percent of the total 98,678 deaths due to coronavirus recorded

India's COVID-19 tally crossed 63 lakh on Thursday with 86,821 new cases reported in the last 24 hours, according to the Union Health Ministry. Additionally, the countrywide toll rose to 98,678 with 1,181 new deaths.

The number of recoveries, on the other hand, rose to 52,73,202, taking the recovery rate to 83.53 percent.

The total number of coronavirus cases (63,12,584) includes 9,40,705 active cases, which comprise 14.90 percent of the total caseload, the ministry's data stated.

The COVID-19 case fatality rate due to the coronavirus infection has dropped to 1.56 percent.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20 lakh mark on 7 August, 30 lakh on 23 August and 40 lakh on 5 September. It went past 50 lakh on 16 September and crossed 60 lakh on 28 September.

According to the ICMR, a cumulative total of 7,56,19,781 samples have been tested up to 30 September, with 14,23,052 samples being tested on Wednesday.

For the tenth successive day, active cases of coronavirus infection in India were below 10 lakh while the country's steady trend of posting high levels of daily recoveries continued, the ministry also said.

Study shows COVID-19 transmitted mostly by 'superspreaders'

The transmission of COVID-19 in India has been driven mainly by superspreaders or a small percentage of infected people, according to the largest contact tracing study in the country.

The study also shows that children are key to the spread of the novel coronavirus in the country.

The researchers, including those from the Government of Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh, found that over 70 percent of COVID-19 infected patients in the country did not infect any of their contacts, while 8 percent of infected individuals accounted for 60 percent of observed new infections.

The study of over half-million people in India found that both cases and deaths due to the disease have been more heavily concentrated in the 40-69 age group.

The study noted that contacts within the same age group were associated with the greatest infection risk. A pattern, which the researchers said, was strongest among children between 0-14 years of age, and among adults older than 65 years.

The researchers also found a high prevalence of infection among children.

The study, published in the journal Science on Wednesday, assessed the disease transmission patterns in 5,75,071 individuals exposed to 84,965 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the two states based on data collected by tens of thousands of contact tracers.

According to the scientists, including Ramanan Laxminarayan from the Center for Disease Dynamics, Economics, and Policy in New Delhi, the findings offer a peek into the pandemic's trajectory in a low- and middle-income country, where most COVID-19 cases have occurred.

Next sero-survey in Delhi will be conducted in a fortnight

The next serological survey to check for the prevalence of antibodies against the novel coronavirus among people will start in Delhi within a fortnight, Delhi health minister Satyendar Jain said on Thursday.

Seroprevalence of antibodies to COVID-19 reduced to 25.1 percent in September from nearly 29 percent in August among people in the National Capital, the Delhi High Court was informed on Wednesday.

These are the findings of the third round of sero-survey carried out by the AAP government in the National Capital between 1 and 7 September.

The first sero-survey was conducted by the Delhi government in collaboration with the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). The next two surveys were conducted by the Delhi government.

"In the first survey conducted, the data was collected from 11 districts but for the September survey, we divided Delhi into 280 parts and the geographical area covered was more. The next sero-survey will also be conducted on the same format and will start in the next 10-15 days," Jain told reporters.

September accounted for 41.53% of total cases in India

In the eight months since the first case of coronavirus infection was detected on 30 January, September alone recorded 26,21,418 infections, accounting for 41.53 percent of the over 63 lakh COVID-19 cases reported in the country so far, PTI reported.

The past month also saw 33,390 deaths due to the disease, which is around 33.84 percent of the total 98,678 deaths recorded so far.

September witnessed 24,33,319 people recuperating, contributing to around 46.15 percent of the total 52,73,201 recoveries registered so far in the country.

India is at number one position in terms of the number of recovered coronavirus cases followed by Brazil and the US, according to the Johns Hopkins University, which has been compiling COVID-19 data from all over the world.

India is the second worst hit nation in terms of COVID-19 cases after the US, while it is in the third spot in terms of fatalities globally after the US and Brazil, according to the JHU data.

The first positive case of the coronavirus infection was reported in Kerala on 30 January.

Meanwhile, Thursday was a day of grim COVID-19 milestones for Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.

The case load in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu crossed seven lakh and six lakh, respectively, while Kerala saw its tally breaching two lakhs.

Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu are among the the states with high virus caseload states in the country, along with Maharashtra and Karnataka.

Kerala, which received accolades from many for initially curbing the spread of the contagion, has seen a rapid spike in the number of infections in September, causing concern.

Incidentally, the virus surge went past six lakh in Karnataka on Wednesday, while Telangana is inching closer to two lakh cases with the tally rising to 1,93,600.

However, both Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu have also witnessed dip in the daily additions and active cases.

State-wise cases and deaths

Andhra Pradesh reported 6,751 new cases, 7,297 recoveries and 41 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking total cases to 7,00,235, including 6,36,508 recoveries, 57,858 active cases and 5,869 deaths.

Rajasthan reported 2,193 new cases, 1,953 discharged cases and 14 deaths. The total number cases rise to 1,37,485 till date, including 20,807 active cases, 1,14,135 discharged cases and 1,500 deaths.

Madhya Pradesh reported 20 deaths and 2,041 new cases today. The total number of cases in the state is now 1,30,088 including 20,473 active cases, 1,07,279 recoveries and 2,336 deaths.

In Punjab, 1,317 new cases and 45 deaths have been reported, taking the total number of cases to 1,15,151 including 15,763 active cases and 3,451 deaths as per the state government.

Chandigarh reported 119 new cases and two deaths today, taking the total number of cases to 12057 including 1884 active cases and 164 deaths, according to the Health Department, Chandigarh.

With inputs from agencies
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Gravitational wave scientists looking for evidence of "lensing," in which the faintest gravitational wave signals become amplified, are unlikely to make these detections in the near future according to new analysis by scientists at the University of Birmingham.

A team in the University's School of Physics and Astronomy and the Institute for Gravitational Wave Astronomy has analyzed currently available gravitational wave data to predict that these elusive signals are likely to remain undetected by the instruments currently operated by the LIGO and Virgo Collaboration.

The existence of gravitational lensing was predicted by Einstein and is a well-recognized phenomenon in relation to light waves. Light emitted by distant objects in the Universe is bent by the gravitational pull of other massive objects, such as galaxies when the light source passes behind them. When detected by the earth's telescopes, this distortion might make the light-emitting object seem larger or closer to earth than it actually is.

Scientists predict that the same will be true of signals from gravitational wavesbut we won't find them just yet. In a paper published in Physical Review Letters, the Birmingham team drew together available information on the sensitivity of the current observatories with another key ingredientthe as-yet undetected backgroundto predict the statistical likelihood of lensing events.

This background is composed of the potentially huge numbers of gravitational wave signals that can only be analyzed by their statistical probability because they are too small or too far away to be detected individually.

The team predicted that in order to detect one signal significantly affected by lensing, the observing teams would need to collect at least tens of thousands of them.

Lead author Dr. Riccardo Buscicchio explains: "The number of gravitational wave events detected by the LIGO/Virgo Consortium has already reached several dozen (many of them yet to be confirmed) and over the next few years these will expand into hundreds of new detections. As we start to accumulate gravitational wave statistics, it's likely that we will start to see many new phenomena, so in principle, detecting gravitational lensing becomes more likely. In general, however, these events are particularly difficult to positively identifyit's very hard to tell if the signal a is very distant one that has been amplified through lensing, or if it is simply closer and therefore easier to detect. Our analysis suggests not only that there is actually quite a low probability of seeing this phenomenon given the sensitivity of current instruments, but also that existing detections thought to be potential candidates are in fact unlikely to be examples of lensing."

Explore further New gravitational wave data analysis now underway

More information: Buscicchio et al., Constraining the lensing of binary black holes from their stochastic background. arXiv:2006.04516 [astro-ph.CO]. Buscicchio et al., Constraining the lensing of binary black holes from their stochastic background. arXiv:2006.04516 [astro-ph.CO]. arxiv.org/abs/2006.04516 Riccardo Buscicchio et al. Constraining the Lensing of Binary Black Holes from Their Stochastic Background, Physical Review Letters (2020). DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.125.141102 Journal information: Physical Review Letters
Daren Timson-Hunt, 54, arrives at Westminster Magistrates' Court in September 2019

A senior government lawyer who became one of the first in the country to be prosecuted for upskirting on the Tube faces expulsion from the legal profession.

Daren Timson-Hunt, 55, hid his phone under his right leg to take a photo of a female passenger who was on her way to a job interview.

Timson-Hunt followed the woman after she got the Northern Line train at Embankment station, and waited at the bottom of the stairs.

The shamed barrister was spotted by a police inspector after taking his phone out of his pocket as the woman reached the top of the stairs shortly after 9.30am on June 1 last year.

When confronted Timson-Hunt said: I do not know why I did it.

I have never done something like this before.

I am an idiot.

He faces a disciplinary hearing at The Bar Tribunals and Adjudication Service, which may suspend or strike him off the roll for professional misconduct.

The tribunal is currently considering whether to proceed without him after he responded to the remote-link invitation email with thank you, but no thank you.

Timson-Hunt had admitted the upskirting offence at Westminster Magistrates Court in September last year.

He was sentenced to 24-month community order with a 35-day program requirement, 30 days of rehabilitation activity and 60 hours unpaid work.

Timson-Hunt, of Thurrock, Essex, admitted operating equipment beneath the clothing of another person without consent under new upskirting laws in September last year

Timson-Hunt was also placed on the sex offenders registry for five years.

His victim, who was on her way to a job interview, said in her impact statement read at the court hearing:

I found it very intrusive he could do this and it made me feel extremely annoyed and made me lose focus in my interview.

She went on to say that the incident had deeply impacted her day-to-day and made her avoid public transport.

It has made me change my behaviour.

I havent worn a dress or skirt, considering the recent weather.

I fear that should I wear a dress in public transport it risks it happening again, she said.

I feel my personal space has been violated and the male should face the consequences of his actions.

Timson-Hunt was a senior lawyer at the Department for International Trade until August last year.

Timson-Hunt followed the woman after she got the Northern Line train at Embankment station, and waited at the bottom of the stairs (file image)

He was Head of the EU Exit and Goods Legal Team and previously worked as a senior legal advisor at the DIT and in another government role for HMRC.

Timson-Hunt, of Stanford-Le-Hope, Thurrock, Essex, admitted operating equipment beneath the clothing of another person without consent, contrary to sections 67A(1) and (4) of the Sexual Offences Act 2003.

According to the charge he operated equipment, namely a mobile phone, beneath the clothing of another person with the intention of enabling you or a third person to observe the genitals, buttocks, or underwear covering the genitals or buttocks, of the other person in circumstances where they would not otherwise be visible, for the purpose of obtaining sexual gratification.

In addition to his sentence the lawyer was also ordered to sign on sex offenders register for five years and pay 175 in court costs and victim surcharge.

Timson-Hunt was the fourth person to be convicted under the new upskirting law.

The tribunal continues.
Viewers have slammed the management at The Savoy for their 'rude' treatment of staff after insisting the hotel's new fly-on-the-wall documentary was 'not a good PR move'.

ITV's four-part production offers audiences at home a glimpse of one of London's grandest hotels, which has 37 butlered suites starting from 1,500 a night to a staggering 18,000.

But despite the glamour on display for guests - including private cocktail parties in their rooms, bespoke bouquets and even personalised bed linen - viewers were left disappointed with how staff at the 131-year-old hotel on the banks of the River Thames were treated.

One wrote: 'I would feel more comfortable in a Premier Inn after knowing how the staff get treated at The Savoy.'

Self-confessed 'tyrant' head butler Sean Davoren, 62, who started at The Savoy in 1978, was lambasted after publicly telling-off his staff, while Savoy Grill owner Gordon Ramsay faced criticism for his foul-mouthed tirade over a chipped plate.

In last night's episode, which sees David Hasselhoff stay at the hotel, Sean was seen putting newest butler and former actor Michael Peluso, 37, whose mother was the late Loose Women star Lynda Bellingham, through his paces.

Scroll down for video

Unimpressed Viewers saw Savoy Grill owner Gordon Ramsay (pictured left) serve up a foul-mouthed rant at his maitre d'hotel and declare standards arent good enough after finding a cracked plate and being served duck with a blunt knife

Keeping the seven-storey hotel running is head butler Sean Davoren (pictured), 62, who started at The Savoy in 1978, and strives for 'excellence' each morning

'Im a little bit of a tyrant,' Sean said. 'When I was being trained they would hit you, throw things at you and say, "Youd better do better or you wont be working here." It was a good lesson but wouldnt be appropriate now.'

A nervous Michael, who was hired by Sean without any previous butler experience, admitted: 'I didn't think anyone would scare me more than my father but Sean does.'

Michael was tasked with hosting a private cocktail party for returning guests motor industry boss Damien Cuming and his wife Jacqueline, from Cambridgeshire, in their 1,500-a-night suite.

He was shadowed by Sean, who to the shock of viewers, proceeds to direct and tell him off in front of the guests when Michael starts incorrectly pointing at the food on offer.

'Pointing Michael, you're pointing,' Sean said. 'Very bad gesture.'

Earlier in the evening, Michael was also criticised for not having everything prepared on time, with Sean asking: 'Have you another bottle [of champagne] ready? Now Mr Cuming will get upset if we don't get it right. And what glasses am I going to be using?

'I'll go and get some for you now,' Michael said, but clearly wasn't moving quickly enough when Sean added: 'Move, please.'

But Michael seemed eager to stand up for himself, and replied: 'I couldn't bring it up all on one table... Sean we can talk about it later, if you want to talk about it.'

But 'disgusted' viewers have slammed the management at The Savoy for their 'rude' treatment of staff after insisting the hotel's new fly-on-the-wall documentary was 'not a good PR move'

However the excuse didn't work for Sean, who was quick to snap back with: 'Didn't I suggest you bring a table outside?'

'You're picking up an attitude at the moment. I asked you to check, now do you need to go out and smile again.'

Turning to the camera, the head butler explained: 'It got off to a rocky start. He got a bit of an attitude with me when I started questioning him because he wasn't ready for the arrival and I went through this, this afternoon.'

Viewers were also disgusted with TV chef Gordon Ramsay's handling of his staff at the Savoy Grill - one of four restaurants available in the hotel.

Maitre D Thierry Tomasin, 51, with 30 years experience in the industry, was handpicked by owner and celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay 18 months before the documentary began to help run the establishment.

In last night's episode, which sees David Hasselhoff stay at the hotel, Sean was seen putting newest butler and former actor Michael Peluso (pictured), 37, whose mother was the late Loose Women star Lynda Bellingham, through his paces

Michael was tasked with hosting a private cocktail party for returning guests motor industry boss Damien Cuming and his wife Jacqueline (pictured together), from Cambridgeshire, in their 1,500-a-night suite

Michael was shadowed by Sean (pictured left), who to the shock of viewers, proceeds to direct and tell him off in front of the guests when Michael starts incorrectly pointing at the food on offer

Speaking to his staff ahead of service, the Frenchman says: 'We are not waiters, we are salesmen of pleasure. We do the je-ne-sais-quoi but I want the ooh-la-la.'

The staff were seen preparing for Gordon's arrival during the show, with the chef trying out two new dishes and ensuring his front-of-house was up to scratch.

However, Gordon left disappointed after finding a cracked plate, being served duck with a blunt knife and finding little haddock in the 12 fish omelet.

Finding the chipped plate, he rants: 'Put it in the f****** bin. Its The Savoy, guys, not the f****** Golden Egg down the Old Kent Road.'

Waiters are expected to flambe, carve and fillet dishes in front of diners, but Gordon is less than impressed with Thierry's carving skills.

Gordon (pictured left, with his staff) is left disappointed after finding a cracked plate, being served duck with a blunt knife and finding little haddock in the 12 fish omelet

It's synonymous with luxury, glamour and VIP treatment - and a glimpse of The Savoy (pictured) was offered without the grand expense thanks to a new fly-on-the-wall documentary, starting last night

The dining manager explains that his freshly sharpened knife has been switched for a blunt one as he tries to carve the meat, with Gordon saying: 'You've turned a beautiful duck into roadkill.'

'Today wasn't good,' admits Gordon. 'Nowhere near my standards. The Savoy Grill for me is about prestige. My name's on the door so I want it right and today was just not good enough.'

Following the scenes, one viewer said: 'Looks like The Savoy is full of workplace bullies. Really poor leadership first from Gordon Ramsay and now head butler Sean.'

Another added: 'Sean and Gordon have put me off staying at The Savoy. I can well afford the same service The Cumings get but not when they treat staff like that. Disgusted.'

A third wrote: 'Who would want to work at The Savoy, the way management treat/talk to staff? Ramsay is the main reason I would not go to The Savoy. It all seems very tacky despite what they try to say.'

A fourth commented: 'Is there really any need for Gordon Ramsay to swear. He's not funny, he's just god damn rude and pig ignorant. The management at The Savoy should not allow the staff to be spoken to like that.'

MailOnline has contacted The Savoy for comment.
The offer received bids for 4.29 crore shares as against 51 lakh shares on offer.

The initial public offer (IPO) of Likhitha Infrastructure received bids for 4.29 crore shares on Thursday, 1 October 2020, as against 51 lakh shares on offer, as per the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) website data at 17:30 IST. The issue was subscribed 8.43 times.

The issue opened for bidding on Tuesday, 29 September 2020 and it will close today, 1 October 2020. The price band for the IPO was set at Rs 117-120 per share.

The public issue comprised a fresh issue of 51 lakh equity shares, representing 25.86% of post issue paid up equity. The company proposes to utilize the IPO proceeds towards meeting the working capital requirements (Rs 47 crore), general corporate purposes and issue expenses.

The company recorded sales of Rs 161.24 crore and profit after tax of Rs 19.88 crore in the year ended on 31 March 2020.

Likhitha Infrastructure (LIL) is an oil & gas pipeline infrastructure service provider in India. Its operations include three principal business lines: (i) cross country pipelines and associated facilities; (ii) city gas distribution including CNG stations; and (iii) operation & maintenance of CNG/PNG services.

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Taoiseach Micheal Martin held a meeting with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Thursday after the EU announced it will initiate legal action against the UK (Julien Behal/PA)

The Irish premier has said the European Commission legal proceedings against the UK were to be expected.

Micheal Martin said the UK was under no illusions about the strength of opposition to its unilateral actions but he was hopeful the talks could get to a more intense phase over the next week or so.

He made the comments following a bilateral meeting with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels.

The Taoiseach travelled to Belgium to attend a special meeting of the European Council on Thursday.

It comes as the EU announced it will begin legal proceedings over Boris Johnsons Internal Market Bill, which overrides key elements of the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement relating to Northern Ireland.

Mr Martin said: We support the Commission in its actions.

It gave the United Kingdom a month to respond in relation to withdrawing the Internal Market Bill and the unilateral action it took in relation to the Northern Ireland protocol.

I met with the president, she appraised me of the decision taken by the Commission.

We also discussed how we will deal with Brexit over the coming weeks.

The leader of Fianna Fail told RTE News there was concern across Europe at the unilateral action by the British government on the Northern Ireland protocol and that the UK Government needed to resile from that.

Parallel with that we are conscious of the need to conclude a comprehensive relationship agreement with the UK which is in the best interests of the people of Europe, the UK and Ireland, he said.

A sensible free trade agreement is something that we are seeking also.

While Mr Martin said he was hopeful that talks would become more intense he also cautioned that the issues were very substantive.

I think the mood is moving in the right direction towards better engagement, thats always important in terms of negotiations of this kind but there are serious challenges ahead.

He said it would remain to be seen how the UK would respond to the EUs actions.

Expand Close The Lifford Bridge, from Donegal, which marks the border between Strabane in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, and Lifford in County Donegal in the Republic of Ireland (Niall Carson/PA) PA / Facebook

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Whatsapp The Lifford Bridge, from Donegal, which marks the border between Strabane in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, and Lifford in County Donegal in the Republic of Ireland (Niall Carson/PA)

The UK Government is very conscious of the strength of opposition to its unilateral action across Europe and indeed in Ireland, Mr Martin said.

It is under no illusions about that.

It understands that.

He added that Ireland was willing to play its part together with the EU in advancing the talks.

I have said repeatedly and consistently that it is in the interests of the people that we represent, their livelihoods, their jobs, that all political leaders work collectively to make sure we get the best outcome for workers, for businesses and the people generally, he said.

That is ultimately our objective as a country.

Mr Martin has previously said the Irish Government was preparing its latest budget on the basis of a no-deal Brexit.

He recently told the UK Liberal Democrats conference that he was not that optimistic of a future free trade agreement being reached between the UK and the EU.

While in Brussels Mr Martin will attend the Renew Europe working lunch with other EU leaders ahead of the Council summit.

Participants will discuss how to deepen and strengthen the Single Market as a key tool to drive Europes economic recovery.

It will also consider how to improve the competitiveness of European industry.
UP: Set on fire after failed gangrape attempt, says college student who was found naked with severe burns

Maharashtra: 15-year-old girl gangraped multiple times in Thane; 33 booked, two minors among 26 held so far

Gangrape of 2 minors in Rajasthan; UP Minister asks Gandhis to visit the state

India

oi-Briti Roy Barman

New Delhi, Oct 01: Amid outrage over the gangrape and murder of a 19-year-old Dalit woman in Uttar Pradesh's Hathras, another case has now emerged from Rajasthan.

Two minors were allegedly abducted from Baran in Rajasthan and taken to Jaipur and Kota where they gangraped for three days, according to the report.

Hathras gangrape: UP police file case against Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka for violating Epidemic Act

While police claimed that the minor girls denied allegations of rape in their statement, the two admitted on camera to having been drugged and gangraped.

The father of the girls, aged 13 and 15, told police that the two accused, also minors, lured his daughters on the night of September 18 to leave the district with them. They were then taken to Kota and Jaipur where they were raped by the two minor boys and three others, the father alleged.

Meanwhile, UP Cabinet Minister Sidharth Nath Singh has questioned if Congress leaders visit Rajasthan after the minor's rape there saying the leaders want to politisize the issue in Uttar Pradesh.

Hathras sealed ahead of Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi's visit|Oneindia News

"Will Sonia, Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi not give answers on what is happening in Rajasthan? They want to play politics over the issue by visiting the district."

Congress party in-charge of Uttar Pradesh Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and brother Rahul Gandhi is expected to make a visit to the family of the Hathras gangrape victim today. Ahead of their visit, Section 144 has been imposed in Hathras.

Earlier, Priyanka Gandhi slammed Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath government over the incident in Hathras and demanded his resignation, saying that he has no moral right to continue.
Sri Lankans should be asking themselves whether the countrys Constitutions have served them and whether they have provided the structural foundation for its democratic, economic and social upliftment after 72 years of independence.

by Raj Gonsalkorale

Sri Lankas debt to GDP ratio is expected to be more than 90% this year, and Moody's have downgraded Sri Lanka's sovereign credit rating by two notches, saying the South Asian nation would be hard-pressed to secure funding to service its huge foreign debt. Sri Lanka was pushed down from "B2" (high credit risk) to "Caa1" (very high credit risk), as the coronavirus pandemic compounded its economic woes, Moody's said in a statement.

Brief pre Republic Constitutional history

Sri Lankans should be asking themselves whether the countrys Constitutions have served them and whether they have provided the structural foundation for its democratic, economic and social upliftment after 72 years of independence. Leaving aside COVID and its impact, which is severe and worldwide, it does not appear that Constitutions have provided this anchor of stability. Obviously, the fault lies not with a piece of paper but those who drafted that piece of paper.

Sri Lanka has had some form of constitutional governance for thousands of years. True, there was no written constitution, but the numerous Kings and Queens of Sri Lanka, although they had absolute power, had varying forms of governance. He or she was head of state but would be aided with high level officials and a board of ministers. The monarch was seen as the supreme ruler of the areas they ruled. The monarch also held judicial power and influence. Judicial customs, traditions and moral principles, in the main, based on Buddhism were used as the basis for the laws promulgated by the Monarchs. The laws and legal measures were proclaimed by the king, and were to be followed by the justice administration. However, the king was the final judge in legal disputes, and all cases against members of the royal family and high dignitaries of the state were judged by him. Though, the king did have to exercise this power with care and after consulting with his advisers (Wikipedia).

One definition of a constitution is that it is a body of fundamental principles or established precedents according to which a state or other organization is acknowledged to be governed. The Merriam Webster Dictionary defines it as the basic principles and laws of a nation, state, or social group that determine the powers and duties of the government and guarantee certain rights to the people in it. Whilst not conforming strictly with these definitions, historically, Sri Lanka cannot say it functioned without Constitutions of some description.

To the best of the writers knowledge there was no written constitution in Sri Lanka until the British attempted to develop a representative government on the island in 1833 through a constitution that created a legislative council. This council was largely powerless, and it resigned in 1864 when their censure of the British government was ignored. The British attempted several other Constitutions to appease the populace in 1910, 1920, and 1924, but these constitutions did not provide for local governance by the native population.

The Donoughmore Constitution of 1931 finally gave some degree of authority to the elected representatives. The Soulbury Constitution was introduced in 1945 and Sri Lanka, then Ceylon, was granted independence under that Constitution in 1948. However, the country retained the Monarch of the United Kingdom as its own Monarch, and exercised that link through a Governor General as a Dominion. It took the country another 24 years, till 1972, to come to its own as a Republic.

The Republic of Sri Lanka and thereafter.

The government of Mrs Sirimavo Bandaranaike elected in 1970 with a two thirds majority established a Constitutional Assembly comprising of all elected members of Parliament. After much discussion within and with the civil society, and amidst some opposition from different quarters, promulgated the new Constitution on the 22nd of May 1972. A ceremonial Presidency replaced the Governor General and legislative and executive power was transferred to the Parliament and the Prime Minister.

The government of Mr J R Jayewardene elected in 1977 with a 5/6 majority introduced a new Constitution in 1978 which instituted a Presidential system of government with an all-powerful Executive President as the Head of State, Head of the cabinet and the Head of the Armed Forces. The role of the Prime Minister was reduced to almost nothing and as the Prime Minister who was appointed by President Jayawardena had reportedly commented, an Office Assistant (called a Peon), had more power than the Prime Minister.

Since the enactment of the 1978 Constitution there have been 19 Amendments to it, with the 20th now tabled in Parliament. The current government has also appointed a Committee to draft a new Constitution to replace the 1978 Constitution.

While Sri Lanka struggles with Constitutions and amendments, it is noteworthy that the Colonial power that introduced formal Constitutions to Sri Lanka, Britain, operates without a written Constitution, but by an unwritten one formed of Acts of Parliament, court judgments and conventions.

Professor Robert Blackburn explains this system, including Magna Cartas place within it stating we certainly say that we have a constitution, but it is one that exists in an abstract sense, comprising a host of diverse laws, practices and conventions that have evolved over a long period of time. The key landmark is the Bill of Rights (1689), which established the supremacy of Parliament over the Crown following the forcible replacement of King James II (r. 168588) by William III (r. 16891702) and Mary (r. 168994) in the Glorious Revolution (1688)

Post independent Constitution making in Sri Lanka.

Perhaps with the exception of the 1972 Republican Constitution, it could be argued that Constitution and amendment making have been significantly influenced by personalities, and quests to perpetuate their powers. The 1972 Constitution could be described as an ideology driven exercise that freed Ceylon from the remaining links to its Colonial master Britain, and established the new Sri Lanka as its own master of destiny. While some may argue otherwise, it is difficult to see how it enhanced and perpetuated the power of the Prime Minister who already enjoyed executive power, although answerable to the Parliament.

The 1978 Constitution on the other hand was a major shift where power was transferred to a single individual, a President, invested with broad executive powers and who was not responsible to the Parliament. Legislative power remained with the Parliament but the 5/6th majority that the Presidents political party enjoyed ensured that the legislative agenda was in fact his agenda. In this context, it is difficult to argue against the fact that the 1978 Constitution was personality driven and was a move to enhance an individuals power.

There have been subsequent attempts to draft new Constitutions and perhaps the most controversial one being the one authored by late Dr Neelan Tiruchelvam and Professor G L Peiris during the Chandrika Kumaratunga Presidency. Dr Tiruchelvam paid with his life for doing this as the LTTE murdered him as its leader Prabakaran regarded Dr Tiruchelvam as a traitor for doing this.

The 18th and 19th Amendments to the 1978 Constitution show a significant degree of personality politics. The 18th Amendment did away with the term limits specified earlier (maximum of two terms to any individual), and some of its other provisions reverted considerable powers that were modified in the 17th Amendment. The 19th Amendment sought to limit the powers of an individual bestowed with such powers in the 18th Amendment and transferred most executive powers to the Parliament and the Prime Minister.

Even the drafters of the 19th Amendment concede that it had shortcomings and they attribute this to the power rivalry between the President elected in 2015 under the 18th Amendment, and the Prime Minister who wanted executive power shifted to the Office of the Prime Minister. They were from two different major political parties in the country, and naturally, neither could agree on a workable, sustainable solution. Their power rivalry retarded the economic development of the country that had been gathering pace after the war against the LTTE, and also resulted in the return of an Islamic terrorist attack on innocent civilians praying in a Catholic Church killing more than 300 people.

Now, the country has been presented with a draft of the 20th Amendment which intends to return executive power back to the President and limiting the role of the Prime Minister. Besides this, the amendment also changes some other clauses in the 19th Amendment and reverts to what was in the 18th Amendment in some instances. Here again, it is difficult to argue against the contention presented by some that certain clauses in the 20th Amendment have been introduced in order to strengthen the hand of an individual rather than as measures to address anomalies in the 19th Amendment. These contentions also extend to the belief that such clauses erode the independence of the Independent Commissions.

The conundrum facing Sri Lankans is the inability of the society and the peoples representatives to enact a Constitution that is not personality oriented, that is structurally strong, that is democratic and that acts as the anchor that holds the ship of State steady when the water is calm and when it is turbulent.

There are a few fundamental issues that have been pointed out by legal personalities. Firstly, the question of exercise of peoples sovereignty. They contend that there is confusion when two seats of power, the President, and the Parliament and the Prime Minister, claim they represent that sovereignty. While the exercise of that sovereignty can be more clearly defined, and powers assigned, in practice it has proven to be a very difficult and challenging task.

The country witnessed this confusion when Chandrika Kumaratunga was the President and Ranil Wickremasinghe was the Prime Minister in 2002. Unknown to and without any approval from the President, the Prime Minister entered into a peace accord with the LTTE leader Prabakaran. The Parliament too was not consulted and approval obtained for this.

The issues between President Sirisena and Prime Minister Wickremasinghe between 2015 to 2019 are too numerous to mention, and they demonstrated the unworkability of a divided exercise of peoples sovereignty beyond any doubt.

In addition to this major issue, there is also a question mark as to whether Parliament actually exercises peoples sovereignty. The current proportional representation system, while it has its own merits, does not produce Parliamentarians who effectively and for all intents and purposes, represent the people who elect them to Parliament. It is a political party or an independent group that is voted in, and people neither have any say in any parties promises to the people, and programs nor how candidates are picked by the parties to contest within a district. The specific parliamentarians cannot be held accountable to the promises they made, by the people who elected them.

People only have the ability to pick amongst the list of such candidates with their preference votes. Whatever the legal position on this and the view of Constitutional Pundits, the end result for a voter is that no one directly represents them in Parliament and people have no avenue to express their sovereign rights. This major anomaly needs to be addressed.

The other major issue is about how the rights and interests of minorities and women find expression in the Constitution. The notion that all are equal in the eyes of the law and the Constitution is a noble motherhood statement, but in practice and in reality, this is not so. Both sections of society need affirmative action to make sure the majority view does not trample on the rights of these two major groups. Ironically, the female population in Sri Lanka in fact is the majority population (almost 52%), yet, the country is dominated by the male population as seen by the fact that there are only 12 female parliamentarians out of the total 225 in the newly elected Parliament.

While there is no doubt there are many other challenges, the above mentioned fundamental ones need to be addressed in a future Constitution. As opined by some, the Constitution should have some key areas protected by law. Firstly, how peoples sovereignty is to be exercised. Secondly, how the powers of the President, the Parliament and the Prime Minister are to be assigned. Third, how affirmative action is to be assured for minorities and women. The Sri Lankan society will not be a just society unless and until these key policy areas are addressed.

The areas more in the limelight are issues like political devolution, and self-determination for sections of the society. These issues arise due to the weaknesses and/or lack of a coherent policy on the above mentioned three areas. Political devolution to the provinces could become superfluous if a policy on affirmative action for minorities and other disadvantaged groups is enshrined in the Constitution. In its place, one could have more and more administrative devolution as that will matter more for people when it comes to their day to day lives. Something is not right if the President of the country has to intervene to get a culvert done in a village or to get a leaking water pipe fixed. These minor administrative matters, no doubt major ones for the communities involved, has to be attended at grass root level. Administrative devolution, rather than political devolution, and with the minimum of political interference will serve the grass roots far more effectively than now.

Empowering women through an affirmative action program will bring in a kinder society where respect for them and their worth will be recognised as a requirement by law. The unpaid contribution made by women to family welfare is enormous but their contribution is not factored in any economic model. Domestic violence perpetrated by male members of households should attract serious punitive measures as preventive measures, and these need to be enshrined in law.

Affirmative action need not be a permanent feature once its objectives have been achieved, and there is genuine equality. But without it, there is much less chances of achieving equality for minorities, disadvantaged groups and women.

The fundamental test that should be applied to a new Constitution is whether it has the ability to provide the structural stability to free Sri Lanka from its debt trap, its perilous economic situation, its social inequities and to move forward as a Nation that is proud of its people, its cultures and its languages.
Labor is demanding an external investigation into the Department of Infrastructure and a "dodgy deal" where $33 million of taxpayer money was paid for land later valued at $3 million.

Australian Public Service Commissioner Peter Woolcott says the behaviour and conduct of officers from the department, described by the Auditor-General as unethical, warrants further investigation.

Australian Public Service commissioner Peter Woolcott says it's appropriate for the Infrastructure Department to have kicked off an investigation into a $33 million land deal. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

But he is satisfied with the Infrastructure Department's move to appoint an independent investigator and auditor to conduct investigations, despite having the powers to make his own inquiries. Internal members of the department cleared themselves of any wrongdoing in a review in 2019.

"Allegations of serious breaches of the APS Code of Conduct regarding public servants in a particular agency are matters for the agency head," he wrote in a letter to Labor's transport spokeswoman Catherine King and finance spokeswoman Katy Gallagher.
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Ohio Republican Sen. Rob Portman on Thursday said President Donald Trump missed a good opportunity to clearly condemn white supremacy during Tuesdays presidential debate in Cleveland. Portman urged Trump to do so unequivocally, because, as I said after the debate, there is no place in our society for hate groups of any kind.

When debate moderator Chris Wallace asked if Trump would be willing to condemn white supremacists and militia groups and tell them to stand down and not add to the violence in a number of these cities, Trump said most of the problems he sees are coming from left-wing groups.

What do you want to call them? Give me a name? Give me name. Go ahead. Who would you like me to condemn?

His Democratic rival, former Vice President Joe Biden, responded with Proud Boys - which the Southern Poverty Law Center identifies as a hate group known for anti-Muslim and misogynistic rhetoric."

Trump responded by telling them to stand back and stand by, but didnt condemn Proud Boys or other white supremacists.

Democrats including Ohio Democratic Sen. Sherrod Brown criticized Trump for not using the opportunity to condemn white supremacy.

After the back-and-forth last night, its time to once again clearly condemn white supremacy. Theres no place in our society for hate groups of any kind. I was pleased to see the President clarify his remarks today.  Rob Portman (@senrobportman) September 30, 2020

We have a president of the United States that would not, in any way, decry white supremacy and white supremacists," Brown told reporters on Wednesday. We have Republican elected officials, who applaud the president, in my state, who applaud the presidents debate performance.

Trump followed up Wednesday by telling reporters he he doesnt know who the Proud Boys are, But whoever they are, they have to stand down. Let law enforcement do their work. When asked if he denounced white supremacy, Trump replied: Any form of any of that, you have to denounce," and urged Biden to condemn Antifa.

Portman subsequently released a statement on Twitter that said he was pleased to see Trump clarify his remarks.

After the back-and-forth last night, its time to once again clearly condemn white supremacy, Portman said on Twitter." Theres no place in our society for hate groups of any kind."

Portman amplified on that in a statement Thursday to cleveland.com:

I wish we had had a better debate over the policy differences between the two candidates with fewer interruptions. Particularly on the economy, there are huge differences between the candidates that the American people deserve to hear discussed. I believe the President missed a good opportunity to clearly condemn white supremacy during the debate. He should do so unequivocally because, as I said after the debate, there is no place in our society for hate groups of any kind. As Ive said consistently, our leaders need to do more to try to bring our polarized country together and both the president and former vice president can and should play a role in that effort.

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Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla sent a memo to employees Thursday criticizing this week's U.S. presidential debate as "disappointing," saying the political rhetoric surrounding the outbreak and vaccine development is "undercutting public confidence."

"Once more, I was disappointed that the prevention for a deadly disease was discussed in political terms rather than scientific facts," he wrote. About a third of Americans have already said that they won't get a vaccine for Covid-19, once one is approved.

He said Pfizer felt it had an obligation to step up to create a vaccine to protect against the coronavirus, which has now taken more than 1 million lives across the globe. Bourla acknowledged the company's ambitious goal to produce 100 million doses by the end of the year.

"Now, we are approaching our goal and despite not having any political considerations with our pre-announced date, we find ourselves in the crucible of the U.S. Presidential election," he wrote. "In this hyper-partisan year, there are some who would like us to move more quickly and others who argue for delay. Neither of those options are acceptable to me."

He told employees that vaccine development is moving "at the speed of science" and that the company would not succumb to political pressure. Pfizer feels the pressure of the "billions of people, millions of businesses and hundreds of government officials that are depending on us," he said.

The company didn't take any investment money from any government, he added. "Our independence is a precious asset," he said.

Read the full letter here:

Dear U.S. Colleagues,



Tuesday night I joined the millions of Americans who tuned in to the Presidential debate. Once more, I was disappointed that the prevention for a deadly disease was discussed in political terms rather than scientific facts. People, who are understandably confused, don't know whom or what to believe. Global health has too much at stake, and the public trust and acceptance of a vaccine is so important to me, that I'm writing to explain the principles we are using at Pfizer today. Remember from the beginning of the year, it was clear that the suffering and destruction from the COVID-19 pandemic would be extreme. In February, cases began spiraling across the globe. Addressing a pandemic requires many simultaneous fronts of attack, but it became obvious that a safe and effective vaccine could be an essential part of the solution. And, it would take a huge effort by a company with scale to achieve that goal. I knew Pfizer had an obligation to step up and lead.



That is why in March, I declared a bold ambition: that Pfizer would create a vaccine, and we would devote any and all resources necessary to be successful. I further announced, after consulting with our scientists, that we could have vaccine data ready to submit to the FDA by end of the third quarter, in October, and hopefully a hundred million doses delivered by the end of the year. I knew our goal was ambitious, but it would also be critical to protect against the second wave of cases that could accompany the return of colder weather in the Fall.



Since then, and every day for the last seven months, we've kept our shoulder to that wheel. Our scientists have leveraged our vaccine research and development expertise, our manufacturing team has innovated to solve production and delivery hurdles, and we've recruited more than 35,000 people in clinical trials in multiple countries. Every ounce of our ability has been spent and nearly $2 billion put at risk.



Now, we are approaching our goal and despite not having any political considerations with our pre-announced date, we find ourselves in the crucible of the U.S. Presidential election. In this hyper-partisan year, there are some who would like us to move more quickly and others who argue for delay. Neither of those options are acceptable to me. Against this backdrop, people need to know three things:



First, we are moving at the speed of science. With a virus this ferocious, time is our enemy. This week, we will hit the grim marker of 1 million deaths globally and the number continues to climb. This danger supersedes any other timing considerations.



Second, we would never succumb to political pressure. The only pressure we feeland it weighs heavyare the billions of people, millions of businesses and hundreds of government officials that are depending on us. We've engaged with many elected leaders around the globe through this health crisis, but Pfizer took no investment money from any government. Our independence is a precious asset.



Third, our priority is the development of a safe and effective vaccine to end this pandemic. I have a duty to Pfizer's 171-year history to honor our legacy of discovering and manufacturing high-quality medicines. We will never cut a corner. Pfizer's purpose is simple: "Breakthroughs that Change Patients' Lives." It's our North Star.



Finally, I enjoy a robust policy debate, but I'm not a politician. I'm a scientist, business leader, husband and father, friend and neighbor who cares deeply about the integrity of this potential vaccine. The amplified political rhetoric around vaccine development, timing and political credit is undercutting public confidence. I can't predict exactly when, or even if our vaccine will be approved by the FDA for distribution to the public. But I do know that the world will be safer if we stop talking about the vaccines' delivery in political terms and focus instead on a rigorous independent scientific evaluation and a robust independent approval process.



Let's continue to work together to build trust in the science. That is what we are doing at Pfizer. Imagine the compounded tragedy if we have a safe and effective vaccine that many people didn't trust. That is a risk none of us should accept.

CNBC's Berkeley Lovelace contributed to this article.
Portland tech news site Digital Trends laid off 17 people Wednesday and cut ties with an unspecified number of freelance writers, the latest online publisher to cut back during the coronavirus pandemic.

The company said the layoffs are part of a strategic shift in its business, and that Digital Trends' workforce will grow overall as it hires 30 new employees for unspecified roles.

These changes will enable Digital Trends to optimize our operations and focus on the highest-performing and fastest-growing areas of our business, the company said in a written statement.

Founded in 2006, Digital Trends posts tech news and product reviews on its website. The company said Wednesdays cuts represent a third of Digital Trends' editorial staff. Layoffs hit its news department, its video game editor, its audio-visual editor and the host and crew of the sites daily live show.

Digital Trends also laid off personnel working for its Spanish-language site and a mens lifestyle site it runs called The Manual. Business journalism site Talking Biz News first reported the layoffs.

Employees took to Twitter to acknowledge their own layoffs and commend their colleagues.

There are a lot of talented writers and journalists at Digital Trends and its really unfortunate that the company decided to part ways with such a talented staff, said Mathew Katz, a Portland journalist who had been Digital Trends' associate managing editor.

In June, Digital Trends apologized for perpetuating a bro culture within the company that failed critical voices including women and people of color among our staff.

The publisher was responding to an employee outcry over a lack of diversity and sensitivity within the company. Staff cited a series of incidents, including a 2018 Gin and Juice party in which a white executive mimicked hip-hop culture by dressing in a black hat, bandanna and white T-shirt, standing before a poster of graffiti while holding a bottle wrapped in a paper bag.

That executive, chief operating officer Chris Carlson, remained with the company even after the June apology. Some current and former employees said the lack of change at the top of the organization caused them to doubt Digital Trends was sincere about the change.

It doesnt appear Wednesdays layoffs were related to the companys culture, though. Many online media sites have cut jobs this year, undermined by the difficult advertising market created by the pandemic.

In Oregon, many regional publications cut staff hours or pay early in the pandemic. There have been fewer cuts in recent months, though, amid signs the industry has stabilized amid a stronger-than-expected economy.

The Oregonian Media Group, which published The Oregonian and OregonLive, told staff this month that it will end temporary pay cuts instituted last spring as its business begins to recover.

This article has updated the comment from Digital Trends, and updated again Friday when Digital Trends said the layoffs represent a third of its editorial staff, not half as the report originally indicated.

-- Mike Rogoway | mrogoway@oregonian.com | twitter: @rogoway |
There are signs that restrictions on social contact such as limiting gatherings to groups of six may be helping slow the spread of Covid-19 across the UK, according to a major study.

Researchers from Imperial College London and Ipsos MORI tested more than 80,000 volunteers in England between Sept. 18-26 as part of the countrys largest survey into Covid-19.

The results show infections increased substantially across the country and the virus is still spreading, with an estimated one in every 200 people infected. But the R rate -- which measures how many people each infected person passes the virus on to -- fell to around 1.1, from 1.7 in late August and early September.

While our latest findings show some early evidence that the growth of new cases may have slowed, suggesting efforts to control the infection are working, the prevalence of infection is the highest that we have recorded to date, said Paul Elliott, director of the program at Imperial College. This reinforces the need for protective measures to limit the spread of the disease.

In London the prevalence of the disease rose fivefold, to 49 people per 10,000, up from 10. That puts the capital close to the national average.

The study was commissioned by the government and full results are due next week, based on samples from 150,000 volunteers.

In recent weeks, Prime Minister Boris Johnson has introduced a range of measures to combat the disease, including 10 p.m. closing times for all bars and restaurants, and the rule of six, under which people must not meet in groups of more than six anywhere, indoors or outdoors.
TORONTO, Oct. 01, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Shawcor Ltd. (TSX: SCL) today announced that its pipe coating division has been awarded a definitive contract with Saipem to provide thermal insulation and anticorrosion coating services for the Payara development project located in the Stabroek block offshore Guyana.



The value of the award is in the range of C$55-$65 million and is scheduled to commence in Q4 2020 from Shawcors Veracruz, Mexico and Channelview, Texas facilities. Saipem previously awarded Shawcor coating contracts for the first two phases of the Liza development in Guyana in 2017 and 2018, respectively.

The Payara phase of the Development project has been sanctioned by ExxonMobil subsidiary Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited and its partners HESS Guyana Exploration Ltd and CNOOC Nexen Petroleum Guyana Ltd.

Shawcor Ltd. is a global company serving various sectors of the Infrastructure, Energy and Transportation markets through three reporting segments: Pipeline and Pipe Services, Composite Systems and Automotive and Industrial. The Company operates through a global network of fixed and mobile manufacturing and service facilities and is valued for its integrity, technology and proven capability to execute the most complex projects in its industry.

This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Words such as "may", "will", "should", "anticipate", "plan", "expect", "believe", "predict", "estimate" or similar terminology are used to identify forward-looking information. This forward-looking information is based on assumptions, estimates and analysis made in the light of the Company's experience and its perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that are believed by the Company to be reasonable and relevant in the circumstances. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those predicted, expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. The forward-looking information is provided as of the date of this news release and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise the forward-looking information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as required by law.

For further information, please contact

Shawcor Ltd.

Paul Pierroz

Senior Vice President, Corporate & Investor Relations

Tel: 416-543-3624

Email: paul.pierroz@shawcor.com

Website: www.shawcor.com

Source: Shawcor Ltd.
TANAKA Develops \TRuST\ Precursor for CVD/ALD Processes; Using Liquid Ruthenium Precursor to Achieve World\-\-s Highest Vapor Pressures

TOKYO, Sept 30, 2020  TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd. (Head office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director & CEO: Koichiro Tanaka) announced today that TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K. (Head office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director & CEO: Koichiro Tanaka), which operates the TANAKA Precious Metals manufacturing business, has developed a new liquid ruthenium precursor named \TRuST\ for CVD[1] and ALD[2] processes. The vapor pressure of \TRuST\ is more than 100 times higher as compared to that to previous liquid ruthenium (element symbol Ru) precursors[3], which is currently the world\-\-s highest vapor pressure value at room temperature as per TANAKA\-\-s internal evaluation.

During this precursor development, TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo focused on material design and synthesis research, while Professor Soo-Hyun Kim, Ph.D., School of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Engineering at Yeungnam University in South Korea, researched to optimize the film formation characteristics.

Technologies developed through this collaboration will help increase performance and reduce energy consumption for the semiconductor devices used in smartphones, computers, and the data centers where demand is to grow well into the future.

Precursors are metal-organic compounds used in chemical vapor deposition (CVD), atomic layer deposition (ALD) and other processes to form thin metal films or metal wiring on substrates. CVD and ALD processes enable the formation of films with superior step coverage on various types of base substrate. These are useful methods for forming films as semiconductors become increasingly miniaturized, with increased structural complexity, and narrower wires with every new generation.

TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo has developed a range of precious metal precursors over the years, including ruthenium precursors. This time, computer simulation and other techniques were used to achieve miniaturization and optimization of the molecular structure. This resulted in the successful development of a precious metal compound in a liquid form, with high vapor pressure, and thermal stability suited for film formation, all of which are important characteristics for precursors. As a result, this compound has the world\-\-s highest vapor pressure over 100 times higher than that of previous liquid ruthenium precursors. The higher the vapor pressure of precursors and the smaller their molecular structure, the higher the possible concentration of precursor in the film formation chamber, and the greater the adsorption density of precursor molecules on the substrate surface. Compared to previous precursors, this achieves excellent step coverage and improved film formation speed.

According to research carried out at Yeungnam University, ALD film formation at approximately 1.7 angstrom (A) per cycle is possible, which is the world\-\-s fastest of its type using liquid ruthenium precursor. Also, specific resistivity after film formation is approximately 13 microhm-cm, which is close to the value of bulk ruthenium metal (7.6 microhm-cm).

When bulk ruthenium is used for vapor deposition, with a temperature as high as 3000 degrees C. However, if it is converted into an organometallic compound of ruthenium precursor, it can be vaporized at low temperatures (between room temperature to 200 degrees C) under vacuum. As a result, the formation of high-quality ruthenium film with excellent step coverage at high productivity is expected. This has been an issue in the past because it is technically difficult to achieve all these characteristics at the same time. With the development of \TRuST\ however, it is now possible.

Samples of Shipments of \TRuST\ should begin shipping samples are planned to start in October 2020.

Background and TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo\-\-s development of precursor for CVD/ALD processes

In the past, the most common wiring materials used for semiconductors were copper, tungsten and cobalt. However, as semiconductors have evolved, there are increasing expectations for the precious metal ruthenium to promote further miniaturization of semiconductors because of its lower resistance and higher durability. With its superior characteristics, ruthenium is also being considered for use in transistor gate electrodes and DRAM capacitor electrodes.

The progress of technologies such as IoT, AI, and 5G over recent years has led to rapidly increasing volumes of digital data used in clouds, smartphones, and computers. Therefore, the need for even greater miniaturization of semiconductors is increasing to enable the creation of devices with higher performance and lower energy consumption. As a specialized manufacturer of precious metals, TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo will continue contributing to this evolution of semiconductors through the development of high-quality semiconductor materials.

With the support of Professor Soo-Hyun Kim, from the College of Engineering at Yeungnam University, a researcher from TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo will give a presentation of this technology at the \International Interconnect Technology Conference (IITC) 2020\, which will be held online from October 5-8, 2020. The title of the presentation is High-growth-rate atomic layer deposition of high-quality Ru Using a Novel Ru metalorganic precursor.

[1] Chemical vapor deposition (CVD): CVD is a chemical film formation method. It is a method of forming thin metal films on the surfaces of base materials or substrates through a chemical reaction induced and accelerated by directing energy, in forms such as heat, plasma and light, at gaseous vapor material fed into a reaction chamber at pressures between atmospheric pressures to medium vacuum pressures (100-10-1 Pa).

[2] Atomic layer deposition (ALD): Both CVD and ALD are film formation methods that use chemical reactions inside reaction chambers to deposit material onto substrates through the vapor phase. The main difference between the two methods is that while CVD continually forms atomic and molecular layers, ALD forms the layers intermittently one layer at a time.

[3] Precursors: Precursors are compounds used as the raw material for forming thin metal films and metal wiring on substrates.

TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd. (Holding company of TANAKA Precious Metals)

Headquarters: 22F, Tokyo Building, 2-7-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo

Representative: Koichiro Tanaka, Representative Director & CEO

Founded: 1885

Incorporated: 1918*

Capital: 500 million yen

Employees in consolidated group: 5,138 (FY2019)

Employees: 221 (March 31, 2020)

Net sales of consolidated group: JPY 1,149,604 million (FY2019)

Main businesses of the group: The holding company at the center of TANAKA Precious Metals responsible for strategic and efficient group management and management guidance to group companies.

URL: https://www.tanaka.co.jp/english/

* TANAKA Holdings adopted a holding company structure on April 1, 2010.

TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K.

Headquarters: 22F, Tokyo Building, 2-7-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo

Representative: Koichiro Tanaka, Representative Director & CEO

Founded: 1885

Incorporated: 1918

Capital: 500 million yen

Employees: 2,393 (as of March 31, 2020)

Sales: JPY 992,679,879,000 (FY2019)

Main businesses: Manufacture, sales, import and export of precious metals (platinum, gold, silver, and others) and various types of industrial precious metals products.

URL: https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com

About TANAKA Precious Metals

Since its foundation in 1885, TANAKA Precious Metals has built a diversified range of business activities focused on precious metals. TANAKA is a leader in Japan regarding the volumes of precious metals handled. Over the course of many years, TANAKA has not only manufactured and sold precious metal products for industry but also provided precious metals in such forms as jewelry and resources. As precious metals specialists, all Group companies within and outside Japan work together with unified cooperation between manufacturing, sales, and technological aspects to offer products and services. Additionally, to make further progress in globalization, TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo welcomed Metalor Technologies International SA as a member of the Group in 2016.

As precious metal professionals, TANAKA Precious Metals will continue to contribute to the development of an enriching and prosperous society.

The five core companies that make up TANAKA Precious Metals are as follows.

 TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd. (pure holding company)

 TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K.

 TANAKA Denshi Kogyo K.K.

 Electroplating Engineers Of Japan, Limited

 TANAKA Kikinzoku Jewerly K.K.

Press release in PDF: http://www.acnnewswire.com/clientreports/598/20200930.pdf

Press Inquiries

TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd.

https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com/en/inquiries-for-media/
Copyright  2020 Albuquerque Journal

Two siblings are facing charges in the death of a man who was fatally shot in the back, allegedly by one or both of the siblings, when a dispute erupted into gunfire off East Central this summer.

Ahmond Bridges, 36, and Torshikia Bridges, 40, both face an open count of murder, among other felonies, in the July 25 death of Michael Baisden.

Initially, police believed Ahmond Bridges fatally shot Baisden after he stepped in front of Bridges as the two men fired at onlookers during an argument.

But according to court records, additional witness statements said Torshikia Bridges also fired a gun during the incident and it was her shot that struck Baisden.

According to the criminal complaint filed in Metropolitan Court:

Police responded around 11:45 a.m. to a fight outside the Four Hills Studios apartments in the 12900 block of East Central, west of Tramway. Soon after, Ahmond Bridges showed up to the hospital with a mortally wounded Baisden.

Witnesses told police Baisden and Ahmond Bridges were beating another man, who turned out to be Torshikia Bridges boyfriend, in the parking lot before getting into an argument with two men in a neighboring mobile home park.

The argument escalated until, according to witnesses, Baisden and Ahmond Bridges opened fire on the two men, and a third man pulled up in a vehicle and began shooting back at them.

Witnesses police initially spoke to said that, during the gunfire, Baisden stepped in front of Ahmond Bridges and was shot.

However, a separate witness interviewed later said Torshikia Bridges had also been firing a gun from a nearby dumpster and Baisden didnt fall to the ground until she started shooting.

Since the incident, Ahmond Bridges defense attorney has said his client was also shot that day and booked into jail with an untreated gunshot wound. The attorney filed a motion on Sept. 17 to have Bridges taken to the hospital to have the bullet removed.

In a response, prosecutors called the claims utterly without merit and patently false, and argued that Ahmond Bridges never mentioned being shot in his two months behind bars and the county jail would not have booked him with an untreated gunshot wound.

On Sept. 24, state District Judge Jacqueline Flores granted the motion to allow Ahmond Bridges to be seen at a hospital and have the alleged bullet removed.
A man threatened to kill his mother by slitting her throat in front of the Odisha Assembly on Thursday while the monsoon session was on. Police personnel posted there were able to overpower him.

Police commissioner Sudhansu Sarangi said the man from Nayagarh district was taking his mother to a hospital when, all of a sudden, he pulled out a knife and attempted to stab her just outside the security ring of the Assembly. Keeping her at knife-point, the man held some leaflets and uttered names of some ministers and political leaders, alleging corruption.

While the exact reason behind the attack is yet to be ascertained, the mother claimed that the man, in his 30s, has mental health issues. Police officers safely rescued the mother while the man is being sent to the psychiatry department of SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack. There has been no security breach, said Sarangi.

However, vehicular movement near the Assembly was disrupted for a while due to the incident.

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Niagaras COVD-19 case count continued to rise Wednesday with an additional nine new novel coronavirus infections confirmed.

The new cases come as Niagara Health is treating patients at St. Catharines hospitals COVID-19 ward again and the provincial pandemic modelling suggests Ontario could see as many as 1,000 cases a day through early October.

The new cases bring Niagaras COVID-19 historic total to 1,073. Ninety-one of those cases are active and at least two of those people are in hospital.

Since the first case in Niagara was found in March, at least 64 people with the virus have died. The last death was made public in early June.

Younger residents continue to be the majority of people recently infected by the novel coronavirus.

Niagaras daily case count had averaged about three cases until the past few weeks when that number began to rise. From Saturday to Monday, 50 cases were confirmed, the first time Niagara had seen double-digit consecutive daily COVID-19 case growth since the spring.

Read more about:
The childcare program in Richmond Community Schools, which welcomes students before, during and after school, has been shut down until Oct. 12.

The closure came about after The Macomb County Health Department identified a confirmed coronavirus case in a staff member at Will L. Lee Elementary School.

Superintendent Brian Walmsley sent a letter out to all parents in the district on Sept. 25 announcing the closure. It read in part:

The MCHD and Richmond Community Schools are working closely to identify persons who may have been exposed. If your child is identified as a close contact, you will receive a telephone call from administration and a separate communication from a health department staff member.

Its our first case and only case and hopefully things will keep going as they are, knock on wood, Walmsley said in a phone interview on Sept. 29.

He stated 45 students and four-staff members in the Childcare Program were sent home to quarantine. The students included students in grades K through 5 who were in the before, during and after school program at Will L. Lee Elementary School.

The original positive case did not originate at the elementary school, Walmsley said the staff member was exposed outside the school. Once they reported to the district that they had been exposed he then reported the instance to the Macomb County Health Department.

Scott Turske, communications specialist with the Macomb County Health Department, said they conduct the case investigation and assist with the contact tracing but the school district handles the announcement to the public.

We work in collaboration with the schools and are always here to answer any questions, Turske said.

Once an exposure or positive case is confirmed Walmsley said the next step is tracking back to see who the person was in contact with while at the school. They go back two days to see who the person spent time with and was in close proximity to them for more than 15 minutes.

The Childcare Program has 60 students in grades K-5 who registered to attend and between 40 and 45 utilize the program each day. The students who have been sent home to quarantine are utilizing the districts virtual learning option for the next two weeks, Walmsley said.

The other staff members involved have been tested and Walmsley said those results were negative and so far, the quarantined students are asymptomatic.

The announcement sent out to district parents stated the virus that causes COVID-19 is thought to spread mainly through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks. Spread is more likely when people are in close contact with one another (within 6 feet for at least 15 minutes). Illness begins 2 to 14 days after a person is exposed. The symptoms of COVID-19 can include: fever, cough, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, runny or stuffy nose, loss of taste or smell, and abdominal pain.

Walmsley also reminded parents/guardians that its extremely important that they monitor their children closely and complete at-home screening each day, including a temperature check, prior to sending their child to school.

Barb Pert Templeton is a freelance reporter. She can be contacted at barbperttempleton.reporter@yahoo.com.
ANALYSIS: A look at why immigration from the U.S. has increased. It is not just about Trump.

Has Trump increased U.S. immigration to Canada? ANALYSIS: A look at why immigration from the U.S. has increased. It is not just about Trump.

Has Trump increased U.S. immigration to Canada? ANALYSIS: A look at why immigration from the U.S. has increased. It is not just about Trump.

Has Trump increased U.S. immigration to Canada? ANALYSIS: A look at why immigration from the U.S. has increased. It is not just about Trump. Kareem El-Assal Aa Accessibility Font Style Serif

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Skilled worker immigration from the U.S. to Canada is on the rise.

Has Trump caused immigration to Canada to increase? With the U.S. Presidential just around the corner we explore this popular question about whether more immigrants from the U.S. have moved to Canada since Pre

Each year, Canada targets roughly 60 per cent of its new permanent resident arrivals under economic class immigration programs. In addition, it welcomes just over 25 per cent under the family class, and the remaining 15 per cent on refugee and humanitarian grounds.

When we solely focus on immigrants arriving from the United States under the economic class, we see there has been an exponential increase since 2015.

One may think the purpose of looking at the 2015 to 2020 period is to assess the impact of U.S. President Donald Trump on immigration to Canada.

However, using 2015 as the reference period is useful because it marks the year Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) overhauled the way it manages economic class applications. That year, it introduced Express Entry to manage skilled worker applications in a more dynamic and quick fashion.

The number of immigrants coming to Canada from the U.S. under Express Entry has risen by leaps and bounds. Upon Express Entrys launch in 2015, only 600 U.S. residents obtained invitations to apply for permanent residence. Last year, this figure stood at over 10,000 people.

The big question is: How much of this is due to Trump?

Understanding U.S. immigration to Canada

It is important to make a distinction between U.S. citizens immigrating to Canada, and U.S. residents immigrating to Canada.

Most of those who move north as skilled workers are actually U.S. residents. They are individuals who lived in the U.S. for whatever reason, be it as workers or students, for example, and then decided that they wanted to pursue permanent residence in Canada.

The number of U.S. citizens arriving as economic class immigrants has also increased on an absolute basis since 2015. There were 4,800 individuals who did so in 2019 compared with 3,300 in 2015.

One may attribute this to Trump, however it would be a mistake to do so.

On a relative basis, U.S. citizens have comprised about 2 per cent of all new economic class immigrants welcomed by Canada since 2015.

The reason that more such U.S. citizens have come to Canada over this period is because Canada has increased its overall immigration levels from 272,000 in 2015 to 341,000 in 2019.

So, there has not been a Trump bump among U.S. citizens immigrating to Canada.

Now, what about U.S. residents immigrating to Canada?

Find out if you are eligible for Canadian immigration

Trump Bump is likely one factor for higher immigration among U.S. residents

IRCCs Express Entry data shows that just over 10,000 individuals residing in the U.S. obtained permanent residence invitations in 2019. This figure was also 10,000 in 2018, but was 6,000 in 2017, and only 600 in 2015.

IRCCs data suggests that roughly 85 per cent of these individuals were non-U.S. citizens residing in the U.S. upon the time of invitation. We presume this by subtracting the number of total invitations from the number of U.S. citizens who received invitations (about 10,200 total invitations subtracted by 1,600 U.S. citizens).

One explanation is that again, Canadas overall immigration increased and IRCC has steadily processed more applications through Express Entry over this period. However, this cannot explain the nearly twenty-fold growth in U.S. residents succeeding under Express Entry.

There are other factors that we need to look at, and Trump is one of them.

In the absence of concrete evidence, we cannot assume a causal linkage between the Trump presidency and higher immigration from the U.S. However, it is highly probably that the immigration uncertainty in the U.S. has contributed to more residents in the U.S. moving to Canada.

Find out if you are eligible for Canadian immigration

It is important to remember, however, that while Trump may not have helped matters, uncertainty for immigrant hopefuls in the U.S. has existed for decades now. Although the U.S. has a population that is nine times bigger than Canadas and a labour market that is eight times bigger, it welcomes about the same number of skilled immigrants each year as Canada.

This means there are simply not enough spots available for individuals looking to remain in the U.S. as permanent residents.

This issue long predates Trump and is one likely to linger following the November 3rd presidential election. Irrespective of who wins the election, the U.S. is unlikely to increase its permanent residence allocation to a level that would satisfy the demand of aspiring skilled workers and American employers. Come January 2021, the President and Congress will be laser-focused on Americas COVID-19 recovery.

On a practical level, it may prove difficult for U.S. politicians to explore welcoming more immigrants given the ongoing recession in the U.S. caused by the global coronavirus pandemic.

Hence, we can expect immigration among U.S. residents to remain strong in the coming years as such individuals move to Canada in pursuit of certainty.

Certainty is exactly what Canada offers the growing number of U.S. residents that have moved here since 2015. Canada has a stable immigration system with a growing level of permanent residence spots that successful candidates can secure in six months or less. This is a system that Canada put in place prior to Trumps arrival, and will help it lure many more talented individuals from its southern neighbour well beyond the Trump presidency.

Find out if you are eligible for Canadian immigration

 2020 CIC News All Rights Reserved
I would like to make him a broth of Legionella and pump it into the water system of his loved one, so that they can be infected, they can be mistreated, they can sit and suffer by getting aspirin instead of being properly treated and ultimately die. And we are talking about our nations heroes, Kifowit said. The remarks garnered national media attention.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. The Armenian-American internet personality and entrepreneur Dan Bilzerian, his brother Adam and father Paul, will donate 250,000 dollars to the Hayastan All-Armenian Fund which is currently raising funds to support Artsakh in the ongoing Azeri attacks.

Back in 2018 the Bilzerians visited Armenia and obtained Armenian citizenship and visited the troops in Artsakh. (pictured above)

I am very disappointed that Azerbaijan decided to attack the Armenian people. This is terrible, young people are dying. The country has to defend itself and the people are heading to the border to war, Paul Bilzerian told USArmenia in a live interview. Paul Bilzerians ancestors survived the Armenian Genocide and settled in the US in the previous century.

Adam Bilzerian also expressed deep concern.

Artsakh is a very beautiful place, we made a family visit there two years ago. It was a wonderful trip and I really enjoyed it a lot. I am very concerned now, Adam said.

Paul Bilzerian then announced that their family will donate 250,000 dollars to the Hayastan Fund.

He said he was planning to visit Armenia in July but the trip was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He said their family will visits Armenia whenever possible.

Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan
Ukrainian exports bounce back to pre-crisis levels  trade envoy

17:59, 01.10.20 916

The third quarter is seen as the period of trade recovery.
CORNWALL  September is now the worst month for COVID-19 infection in the Eastern Ontario Health Unit region.

As of September 28th, 63 cases of COVID-19 have been diagnosed said Dr. Paul Roumeliotis, medical officer of health for the EOHU. This surpasses the highest number of infections from the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, which was 56 infections in March.

This weekend another 10 new cases were added to the regional tally, increasing the overall infection count to 263 since the pandemic began in late February.

There are currently 55 active cases of COVID-19 in the region including three cases in South Dundas and two cases in South Stormont. South Glengarry has become a hot spot of activity with 12 active cases. There are two active cases in North Glengarry, and three in Cornwall.

As of the Monday update, there is only one outbreak in a school, a class at Ecole elementaire catholique Embrun, which has resulted in that class being closed as of September 21st. The health unit will declare an outbreak in a school when there are two people who have tested positive for COVID-19 at the same school. If the outbreak relates to one class, only that class would be closed and the students asked to isolate and be tested. A school would only be closed if an outbreak relates to multiple people in multiple classrooms.

Although not in the EOHU region, local school boards, the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario and the Upper Canada District School Board, both have schools closed due to positive COVID-19 tests. They are Holy Cross Elementary in Kemptville and Chimo Elementary in Smiths Falls.

Roumeliotis explained that in the event of an outbreak in a school, the EOHU has the capability to set up a pop-up testing centre for the affected school. Testing can also be done by paramedics with the Cornwall and SDG Paramedic Service, and Prescott-Russell Paramedic Service, if needed. Both services have worked with the EOHU to conduct testing in long-term care homes as well.

The health unit has declared a COVID-19 outbreak at the Residence LErabliere in Limoges. It is the 12th outbreak in a long-term care home or group home since February.

According to Roumeliotis, the majority of the COVID-19 infections in September are in people under age 40.

Roumeliotis said that while Septembers tally is the highest so far, that is with much more testing being done in the region.

Nearly 57,000 tests have been administered by the health unit, but that number is not just residents of the region. Testing centres operated by most of the EOHU partner agencies, like the Winchester District Memorial Hospital, test anyone regardless of what part of Ontario they are from.

The EOHU opened a new drive-thru testing centre last week in Limoges, located in the parking lot of Calypso Water Park.

Provincially, Ontario reported a daily record high of 700 new cases on September 28th and 41,100 tests completed. Toronto (344), Peel Region (104), Ottawa (89) and York Region (54), made up the bulk of the new cases.

Health Minister Christine Elliott said that 60 per cent of the cases reported were people under the age of 40.
Black Pill is internet slang that has gained prominence in 2020. Its an alternative to the Matrixs red/blue pill binary, and, as opposed to opening your mind, it refers to something that makes you look to the future with harsh and utter pessimism. Last nights debate was a bulky and bitter black pill. Yet, there was a shining, damn-near beautiful moment that may signal a change in Americas view of addiction.

It occurred during Bidens response to a question about the current presidents record. Biden brought up the intelligence pointing to Russian bounties being placed on the heads of American soldiers when Trump charged that Bidens son received millions of dollars from Russia. After moderator Chris Wallace tried to once again scold Trump about the rules of the debate Biden continued, eventually returning to the subject of his family. He recounted his son Beaus service to the country calling him a patriot.

Are you talking about Hunter? Trump replied. He got thrown out of the military for cocaine use.

Biden could have sidestepped Trumps insult to his son Hunter. Instead, he looked directly at the camera and said: My son, like a lot of people, like lot of people you know at home, had a drug problem. Hes fixed it, hes worked on it. And Im proud of him. Im proud of my son.

Hunter Biden struggled with addiction to alcohol and cocaine for much of his adult life. He eventually achieved long stints if sobriety with the help of Twelve-Step Programs and with treatment using the psychedelic plant extract Ibogaine. Joe Bidens up-close-and-personal experience with substance abuse disorder could indicate the potential for great changes in our countrys approach to this issue. Hunters experience with Ibogaine treatment could inspire more study for the potentially game-changing substance, which is currently illegal.

Having the son of the president represent the recovery community is a new paradigm. This wouldnt be the presidents distant kin quietly slipping into a million-dollar rehab for 28 days. This would be the presidents son acknowledging that he is in recovery, that he has smoked crack and come out the other end of that indelibly narrow glass tunnel. Merely acknowledging the problem is profoundly meaningful  the first of the twelve steps.

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Addiction is a realm where reform often comes from those who have been through it. If Hunter continues to wear the label of addict without shame, lending his experience and the experience of others in recovery to pertinent policy discussions, this could be a ray of optimism during bleak times for those in recovery. Especially now, when so many people are confronting one of the bleakest times in modern history.

Dark times are the perfect occasion for people struggling with addiction to relapse. For people with substance use disorder, both good and bad times can be opportunities to use  but utterly hopeless ones like these are especially tempting. Overdose deaths have increased in 40 states since the beginning of the pandemic, according to the American Medical Association.

Trump looks at addiction on the same strength/weakness binary through which he sees much of the world. Bidens stance on the issue was a clear and defined point of difference for Biden in an evening of confusion. Trump seems not to even be listening to many of his own voters: addiction does not discriminate between race, class, or even between the weak and the strong. It does tend to impact marginalized people to a greater extent, much like the pandemic that now envelops us. If Trump had a better understanding of addiction, he wouldnt have tried to hurl it in Bidens face last night. Bidens proclamation  Im proud of him, Im proud of my son  was an indication that he understands something else Trump never will, that struggling through and surviving hardship can give a person actual strength. It can even make an entire country stronger.

Correction: A previous version of the article stated that Chris Matthews was the debate moderator. It was Chris Wallace.

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Patna: Putting an end to speculations whether the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would dump Janata Dal  U ahead of the next year's Assembly elections, BJP chief Amit Shah on Thursday, in no uncertain terms, declared that the BJP would continue to remain a partner of Nitish Kumar in Bihar and the state elections will be contested under the leadership of the JD-U leader.

"Despite reports in the media, our alliance with Nitish Kumar's Janata Dal  U is very strong and it will remain so in the coming years. The NDA will contest Bihar polls under the leadership of Nitish Kumar and at the national level, we will contest elections under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi," Shah told reporters in Delhi on Thursday.

Decrying any sign of crack in the NDA in Bihar, the BJP president further said that a little back and forth between the parties was quite normal and, in fact, a sign of healthy relationship.

"Difference of opinion does not necessarily means disagreement of the hearts," Shah said.

There has been widespread reporting that the BJP was ready to go solo in Bihar after severing ties with Nitish Kumar whose political stars seem to be on a downward trajectory particularly in the wake of the recent flooding of Patna.

Senior BJP leaders including Dr. C P Thakur and Sanjay Paswan have already floated the idea of a BJP face as the new Chief Minister of Bihar and reports have also suggested firebrand Union Minister Giriraj Singh angling for Kumar's post if NDA came to power again in 2020.

Deputy Chief Minister and BJP leader Sushil Kumar Modi and JD-U leader Shyam Rajak wasted no time in thanking Shah for putting the rumors to rest.

"Where are those who were saying that the NDA was on the verge of split in Bihar?" Modi said while taking a victory lap.

Rajak, on the other hand, thanked Shah for his unwavering trust in Nitish Kumar while stating it was a slap on the face of anti-NDA parties who were cheering for a crack in the coalition in Bihar.
CARLINVILLE  CNB Bank & Trust has been honored with an award for excellence and innovation for its summer math program.

The award was presented Friday, prior to the Community Bankers Association of Illinois annual business meeting, by Kraig Lounsberry, president of Community Bankers Association of Illinois, and Gary Genenbacher, partner and industry leader for BKD National Financial Services Groups Illinois office.
A man walks by a house that was damaged during clashes in the Tartar district bordering the Nagorno-Karabakh region

A man walks by a house that was damaged during clashes in the Tartar district bordering the Nagorno-Karabakh region, on Sept. 29, 2020. Credit - Tofik BabayevXinhua/Getty Images

Intense fighting has erupted in Nagorno-Karabakh, a small enclave in the southern Caucasus mountains, setting the entire region on edge. This is a fight primarily between Armenia and Azerbaijan, two former Soviet republics with long-held grievances over land, but the involvement of Russia, Turkey, and others raises the stakes for where a war might be headed.

In essence, this is a story of a powerful outsider changing history by drawing arbitrary lines on a map that would later spark conflict. The states of Armenia and Azerbaijan were pulled into Moscows orbit and became part of the Soviet Union in the 1920s. Though Nagorno-Karabakh, a mountain region about the size of Delaware, was dominated by Armenians, Soviet mapmakers made it part of the Azerbaijani Soviet Republic. For decades, Armenian complaints about the regions status were ignored, and in the final days of the U.S.S.R., war erupted. Tens of thousands were killed, and more than one million were forced from their homes.

A Russian-brokered ceasefire in 1994 left Nagorno-Karabakh as part of Azerbaijan, but ethnic Armenians, with backing from the Armenian government, drove most Azerbaijanis from the territory and declared it an independent republic. Low-level fighting has continued over the years, and an eruption of violence in 2016 killed at least 200 people. There is no peace treaty, and nothing has been resolved.

In recent years, the governments of Armenia and Azerbaijan have sent positive signals. Azerbaijans president and Armenias prime minister opened the first-ever military hotline between the two countries in 2018, and talks brokered by Russia, France, and the United States produced a joint statement in 2019 that appeared to set the stage for a treaty. But momentum was lost, and an eruption of fighting this summer led to popular demand in both countries for a military reckoning. Well likely never know who fired the shot that ignited these latest clashes, but dozens of soldiers and some civilians have been killed. Armenia and Azerbaijan have each declared martial law. Outsiders are scrambling to put out the fire. U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres has called for a ceasefire.

Story continues

Residents shelter in a basement as air raid sirens sound on Sept. 29, 2020 in Stepanakert, Nagorno-Karabakh. Brendan HoffmanGetty Images

The web of foreign ties in this story is complicated. Turkeys president Recep Tayyip Erdogan, eager for any opportunity to boost his popularity and shift the subject from his countrys struggling economy, fully backs his fellow Turkic Muslims in Azerbaijan. While others call for talks, Erdogan insists that Azerbaijan must take matters into its own hands to end Armenias occupation of the disputed region. Vladimir Putins Russia has maintained good relations with Azerbaijan and sold weapons to both countries, but Russia has a military base in Armenia and is bound by treaty to defend Armenia in war. This means that, as in Syria and in Libyas ongoing civil war, Russia and NATO-member Turkey have opposing interests here.

Iran, which borders both Armenia and Azerbaijan, has offered to mediate. Politically active ethnic Armenian populations in both France and the United States bring those governments into the push for negotiations. Adding to the sense of urgency to halt the fighting, Nagorno-Karabakh is a corridor for pipelines that transport oil and gas from the Caspian Sea to the international marketplace.

If the current clashes explode into full-blown war, the damage could be much greater than in the 1990s. This war would be waged with 21st century heavy weapons provided by Russia and Turkey. Erdogan vows his country will only become more involved. There are more than 100,000 civilians caught in the current crossfire. Europe and the United States will again call for a halt to the fighting, but both are distracted with bigger problems closer to home.

Its yet more evidence that William Faulkner was right: The past is never dead. It isnt even past. Especially when powerful people have reasons to keep it alive.
The 2021 Toyota Venza has arrived at the Colonial Toyota showroom. Customers are invited to schedule a test drive today.

Toyota has become an industry leader in developing hybrid vehicles. Obviously, the Prius was an important platform in this regard and its success spawned an entire high efficiency revolution. For the 2021 model year, Toyota is introducing an all-new hybrid crossover SUV, the Toyota Venza and adding to the lineup of one of its most popular platforms with the Toyota RAV4 Prime. Both models are going to save owners money on their monthly fuel costs while also offering two distinctly different experiences. The new Venza has arrived at the Colonial Toyota showroom and the RAV4 Prime will be arriving soon. Product experts working at the dealership are only too excited to educate people what these vehicles have to offer.

The 2021 Toyota Venza hybrid crossover SUV is a familiar model name that is completely outfitted with the latest technology the automaker has to offer. It has a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine attached to Toyota hybrid technology. Owners can expect the 2021 Venza to make 219 horsepower and record 40 miles per gallon in the city and 37 miles per gallon the highway.

As important as efficiency is to the Venza story, it still needs to function as a crossover SUV. When people are sitting in the back seat of the 2021 Venza there will be up to 28.8 cubic-feet of cargo volume with up to 55.1 cubic-feet available when the seats are folded down.

Very few vehicles have been as successful as the Toyota RAV4. The new Prime version will make more than 300 horsepower and its capable of traveling more than 40 miles using only stored electrical power. Additionally, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime offers very similar cargo volume dimensions to the standard RAV4 model.

Anyone can view the entire Colonial Toyota inventory today by visiting the dealerships website, http://www.colonialtoyotact.com. The showroom is located at 470 Boston Post Road, Milford, CT. Customers can schedule an appointment to start the pre-ordering process for either hybrid vehicle today by calling, 203-403-6890.
Democratic nominee said US President was a national embarrassment during the first presidential debate and the moderators should do more to prevent such interruptions in the future.

The two presidential contenders squared off in a nationally-televised debate from Cleveland, Ohio on Tuesday. It was the first of three debates that will be held before the November 3 election.

"He not only attacked me and my family constantly but he attacked the moderator," Biden told reporters on Wednesday. "The President of the United States, conducting the way he did, I think it was just a national embarrassment."

Tuesday's debate devolved into a heckling match led by Trump, who constantly disobeyed pleas by moderator Chris Wallace of the Fox News network, to interrupt Biden while he answered questions. A CBS poll found that 80 per cent of viewers believed the tone of the debate was "negative".

"I just hope there's a way in which the debate commission can control the ability for us to answer the question without an interruption," Biden said.

Biden said he did not want to speculate on what happens in the second or third debate but did suggest moderators control microphones.

"My hope is that they're [moderators] able to literally say 'The question is asked to Trump. Here's the microphone. He has two minutes to answer the question. No one else has a microphone.' I don't know what the actual rules are going to be literally, but that's what seems to me to make some sense," he added.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Commission on Presidential Debates said it will make format changes to address these issues.

The two other presidential debates are scheduled for October 15 in Florida and October 22 in Tennessee.

Biden is ahead by 6.4 per cent on average in the most recent 11 national polls published on Realclearpolitics.com (RCP). However, because of the Electoral College format, statewide polls are more significant. Biden is slightly ahead in eight of the ten largest so-called battleground or swing states, according to RCP.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Last week, I wrote about Californias Proposition 16. Its an attempt to remove the ban on racial preferences from the states constitution. Here is the language, added by the voters in 1996, that Prop 16 would eliminate:

The state shall not discriminate against, or grant preferential treatment to, any individual or group on the basis of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin in the operation of public employment, pubic education, and public contracting.

Less controversial language is difficult to imagine in a nation, or a state, that hasnt lost its way. Yet, Prop 16 has the support of governor Gavin Newsom, Kamala Harris, the entire state Democratic establishment, the teachers unions, Hollywood, and woke athletes.

In addition, Prop 16s backers enjoy a massive financial advantage over their opponents. Im told they have a war chest of $12 million, 90 percent of which comes from contributions of $100,000 or more.

One individual, the wife of an African-American real estate developer, has contributed $3.5 million and lent the campaign an additional $2 million. Another, the wife of Netflix CEO Reed Hastings, has kicked in $1 million. Kaiser Foundation Health Plan has given $1.5 million. Pacific Gas & Electric, which recently emerged from bankruptcy, has given $250,000.

The opposition to Prop 16 has nothing like this donor base. 70 percent of its money comes from donations of $1,000 or less.

I understand that some potential donors are sitting this one out due to fear of the cancel culture. Thus, the opposition relies even more heavily than I would have expected on small donations, including many from Chinese immigrants who dont have a lot to give, but who want their children to grow up in a state that doesnt discriminate against them.

The result of all of this is that Prop 16s backers are outspending their opponents by a ratio of 10 to 1.

Even so, Prop 16 is losing in most, but not all, of the polls. However, with a month to go before the election, and backers leveraging their financial power to mount an all-out campaign, the outcome is very much in doubt.

This is particularly true because the polls show that a great many voters are undecided. If Prop 16s opponents lack the resources to reach these folks, their lead, if they still have one, might well slip away.

Thats why Im hoping that Power Line readers will contribute to the campaign against Prop 16. You can do so at this link. I just did.

The stakes are high. Discrimination based on race, sex, national origin, etc. is odious and un-American. What a disaster it would be if our most populous state to changes its mind and embraces these forms of discrimination.

If Prop 16 wins, it will be viewed as evidence that the BLM movement has succeeded in bringing about a sea change in the way America thinks about race. If Prop 16 loses, it will send the opposite message.

Lets help send that message.
India will realistically not come back to 2019-20 real GDP levels until 2022-23, noted Economist Rathin Roy said in an exclusive interaction with Moneycontrol.

Speaking on a number of issues, Roy said that to boost demand in these unprecedented times, spending should come from states rather than the centre, and that the centres capacity to engage in forward-looking decision making and to use the institutions under its command, to deal with the economic fallout of this crisis, is extremely limited.

Roy is the Managing Director of Overseas Development Institute and a visiting fellow at the Centre for Policy Research. He was till recently director of National Institute of Public Finance and Policy.

While in that role, he served in the Seventh Pay Commission, the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Committee, and is a former advisor to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In the interaction, Roy said that while Modi has aspired for a seamless cooperative federalism between centre and states due to this time as Gujarat Chief Minister, politicians do tend change their mind once they come to the centre.

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

Roy also said that a proposed plan to have a fiscal deficit range instead of a fixed point will only give more leeway to an increasingly more incompetent Finance Ministry bureaucracy unless backed by sound economic reasoning.

Edited excerpts:

Given the extent of April-June GDP contraction, what are your expectations for FY2020-21. Most economists expect all four quarters to show contraction, while the Finance Ministry still talks about a V-shaped recovery in the second half of the year. What are your views?

There is a lot of confusion about this, because of this unfortunate use of alphabets, which are not a standard part of the toolkit of a professional economist. They are essentially descriptive analogies. So, what matters is the analysis behind them. I'm not going to join people who just assert a letter of the alphabet like V or U. It depends on what your benchmark is, and my benchmark is the level of GDP in 2019-20. So, now, the question is when will we come back to that level of GDP?

So, coming back to that level of GDP would describe a V. But how big a V and what is the distance between the two axes of the V is the more interesting question. So, in that sense, it is trivial to say that we will have a V shaped-recovery. Of course, we will, we are an emerging economy.

I think it is absolutely clear to everybody with the simplest intelligence, that we will not be at FY20 real GDP levels in FY21. My estimate is that if things go on as they are and assuming that the COVID-19 impact on the economy in terms of both the demand and the supply side starts to moderate by January 2021, then I do not see the economy recovering to FY20 real GDP levels before optimistically 2021-22, but more likely 2022-23.

Many economists have been saying that the time for the government to announce further fiscal stimulus measures and spend more is now, while the government says while it is aware of this need, the timing is yet to be decided. Your views?

One plausible reason why the central government may not be spending the money is that is not confident of spending it well. Because the most dangerous thing you can do in this circumstance is to increase fiscal space, allocate money to something and then see it misspent.

Take infrastructure, you may declare you intend to spend money on infrastructure but suppose your spending does not occur in the timeline in which we expect the infrastructure output should result, then the expected impact on aggregate demand will not happen.

So the government perhaps is thinking outside the textbook and saying that I'm not going to spend more because I know that if I spend more, that spending will not be effective. So the best I can do is put money into people's bank accounts, and get them to spend more. And if they don't spend more than the same, then I work on the credit policy side.

Now assuming that that is not true, then the logical place for the spending to happen on the demand side would be for the state governments to do so. But since there seems to be an unwillingness to give the state governments money, unless they borrow it themselves, that avenue is also closed. And anything that the centre does other than putting money into bank accounts of people to directly increase aggregate demand is going to be limited in impact.

There are differences between the centre and the states in the GST Council, the CAG has said the centre broke law by transferring money from compensation cess fund to the Consolidated Fund of India, and the Reserve Bank of India has postponed its Monetary Policy Committee meeting. What do these things tell us about our economic policymaking?

It tells us that that the governments capacity to engage in forward-looking decision making and to use the institutions under its command, to deal with the economic fallout of this crisis, is extremely limited.

The Prime Minister, the Finance Minister, and her predecessor have all spoken of cooperative federalism. Is that under threat, especially given what is happening in the GST Council and the way the farm bills were passed?

I think cooperative federalism was an aspiration of the Prime Minister, perhaps coming from the long time he spent as a Chief Minister. But the fact remains that much like civil servants who assume positions of Constitutional office, even politicians change their mind once they come to the centre.

And it is regrettable that in the history of this country, whether under Indira Gandhi or the current dispensation, cooperative federalism always has meant effectively, hierarchical federalism, with cooperation from the states.

But most states have agreed to take the first of the two options presented to them in lieu of compensation shortfall, by the GST Council.

There was no third option on the table. There was no offer of interest free money. It is a well known fact that when the states borrow, then the central government, in principle makes money. Because when the states borrow, the interest on those loans are paid to those who hold state bonds.

A large proportion of which are public sector banks and other financial institutions which are owned by the central government. If they borrow directly from the RBI, in case that happens, it's even worse, because that goes directly to contribute to the profits of the RBI. So when the states borrow, the centre makes money, and that is not a desirable state of affairs. But under compulsion, I suppose the states have no option.

The 15th Finance Commission chairman NK Singh, with whom you have worked closely in the FRBM committee, has spoken of a fiscal deficit range instead of a fixed target. Is that desirable or needed?

There is a bit of wishful thinking going on here. So let us say that the fiscal deficit range would be from 3-4 percent. What would be the logic of taking the fiscal deficit down to 3 percent in a situation where the central government is severely constrained for money. When the tax-GDP ratios have been falling consistently for the last four years, when the entire tax base has shrunk thanks to COVID-19, there would be very little logic to it. And therefore, the tendency would be to stay at the top of the range.

The second consideration is even if I gave a range, what will be the effective sanction if the government breaks that range? The third, is there a desirable fiscal deficit? In my book, unless there are regressive implications to taxation, an ideal situation would be that all government expenditures be funded through taxation and non tax revenue

As a professional economist, as opposed to administrator, I would need to understand the logic by which the range has been set before I can see whether it'll work or not. Otherwise, I can tell you as a policy person, that what you will have to do is either live with the top of the range, in which case you effectively have a fixed point. But it makes your average, increasingly less competent, finance bureaucrats happy that they can announce in Parliament that they're within the range. Or like the monetary policy committee, you will have to make a commitment to stay at the midpoint.

I believe that the deficit occurs for structural reasons, so I look forward to some structural economic theory. But since I have not seen the economic theory underlying the Finance Commissions, ruminations in the event that they do go for a range, I would only comment on it after looking at economic theory, or the analytical framework that justifies it. I would not be looking for administrative arguments, I would not be looking for arguments of convenience, I will be looking for analytical justifications.

Successive governments have breached the fiscal deficit targets over the years, and the medium term target of 3 per cent of GDP has never been reached. Does the FRBM Act need more teeth?

You see, you cannot have any penalties on a weak government. If the underlying reason why the government keeps slipping on deficit targets is revenue performance, and inflated expectations from non tax revenue including divestment, then the government will not be able to meet its FRBM targets.

There are only two things you could do to make a government accountable to its targets, neither of which the government will do, because that would make the bureaucracy in the Finance Ministry accountable. The first is to go for three year medium term fiscal framework. The second is the one recommendation (of the FRBM panel) that the bureaucracy killed, and that is a fiscal council. I happen to know that the late Mr Jaitley was neither for nor against it, so it was clearly done on bureaucratic advice.

Those two institutional reforms would have resulted in the government having to justify repeated deviations from fiscal commitments. Only an institutional reform of the Indian budgeting process, accompanied by institutional reform in the Finance Ministry, in with something like the fiscal council as a purely technical body with no powers, was setup would give you that kind of institutional accountability and foresight that would enable the country to be more competent in the execution of its fiscal policy. In the presence of incompetent execution, the FRBM is not a worthwhile cause.
Venezuela has restarted gasoline production at two refineries, President Nicolas Maduro said in a tweet, adding that he had approved a gasoline supply regularization plan to run between October 5 and November 5.

Venezuelan people! Despite the external attacks, we began to produce the gasoline that the country needs with the construction of two refineries. For this reason, I approved the Gasoline Supply Regularization Plan from #5Oct and until #5Nov . Advance and Win! Maduro said in the tweet.

For months Venezuela has been fighting a major gasoline shortage as refineries are unable to operate at run rates higher than 10 percent because of a shortage of diluents necessary for the production of fuels as well as an urgent need for repairs. The diluent shortage followed the imposition of U.S. sanctions ion the government in Caracas.

Iran, also a target of U.S. sanctions, lent Venezuela a hand sending people to help repair the ailing refineries and several tankers with fuel. The U.S. managed to seize four of these, but earlier cargos made it to Venezuela. Caracas is reportedly paying for the deliveries in gold.

Meanwhile, Nicolas Maduro has called on the UN to protest U.S. sanctions. All countries that defend peace, he said, should rally against the sanctions imposed on Venezuela, as well as those that the United States. has imposed on Cuba, Nicaragua, and Syria.

We must demand the cessation of all unilateral coercive measures, of all the alleged sanctions, and that they allow our people to exercise their own rights, Maduro told the UN General Assembly.

The once prosperous OPEC member has seen its foreign exchange revenues, most of which come from oil, plunge by as much as 99 percent since 2014 under the triple blow of an oil price collapse, the consequences of years of equipment neglect and mismanagement, and the U.S. sanctions that targeted specifically this stream of government revenues.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Hong Kong police arrested at least 60 protesters including two elected officials in the afternoon of a tense National Day holiday that began with leader Carrie Lam's declaration that stability had returned to the Asian financial center.

"The plain truth is and it is obvious to see that stability has been restored to society while national security has been safeguarded, and our people can continue to enjoy their basic rights and freedoms in accordance with the law," Lam said Thursday morning after the annual outdoor flag-raising ceremony.

With some 6,000 riot police on standby, the display offered a marked contrast from a year ago, when calls for protests forced officials from the special administrative region to take shelter inside.

The Oct. 1 holiday marking the founding of the People's Republic in 1949 is the latest test of Hong Kong's efforts to quash the unrest that helped spark a historic recession last year, even before the coronavirus pandemic. Mass arrests and, in June, the passage of a powerful and controversial security law have helped Hong Kong's leaders suppress dissenters. Covid control measures that limit the size of public gatherings have also chilled protest action.

Earlier this week, an appeals panel upheld a police ban on a protest sought by the Civil Human Rights Front, which last year organized largely peaceful marches that drew more than a million people. Police announced the arrests of five activists this week on allegations that they incited people to attend unlawful gatherings.

Protesters turned out anyway. In Causeway Bay, they chanted, "Liberate Hong Kong, revolution of our times," a popular slogan that's been banned by the government for months. Police warned demonstrators and onlookers to leave the area, then began making arrests for "participation in unauthorized assembly" and other offenses, according to an official statement on Facebook. Two district councilors were among those arrested.

Across the harbor, chanting broke out sporadically in a mall in the Mong Kok shopping district, which was also heavily patrolled by police in riot gear. Earlier in the day, veteran activist Leung "Long Hair" Kwok-hung led a small protest near the flag-raising event at Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai.

"We have been fighting for over a year," a Hong Kong University of Science & Technology student named Tse said. "If people do turn up, they will be there to express their concerns or express their non-compliance to the national security law. Many young people don't like how the government is treating its people."

Massive protests a year ago undercut President Xi Jinping's efforts to convey national strength on the 70th anniversary of Communist Party rule, as demonstrators clashed with police and one protester was shot by a riot officer. Xi took unprecedented action to impose the security law without local debate, giving authorities the power to jail for life those convicted of crimes including subversion and collusion with foreign powers.

The Group of Seven nations denounced the security law as a breach of China's promise to preserve the financial hub's autonomy, and the U.S. leveled sanctions against Lam and other top officials. Lam, who has previously complained about how the measures have caused problems with her credit cards, criticized unnamed foreign governments Thursday for "unjustified accusations."

"I and my relevant colleagues will continue to discharge our duty to safeguard national security in accordance with the law without fear or anxiety," Lam said. She was joined at the ceremony by China's most senior officials in Hong Kong, including Liaison Office Director Luo Huining and former Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying, who's now vice chairman of the country's top political advisory body.

Support for several of the protest movement's goals increased over two months, according to a Reuters/Hong Kong Opinion Research Institute poll released in August. The share in favor of Lam's resignation rose to 58% and direct elections for her replacement were backed by 63%. Some 51% said they "very much oppose" the national security law.

Nick Or, an assistant professor of public policy at the City University of Hong Kong, said the government would be better off trying to resolve the underlying disputes. "The potential social unrest that may happen on Oct. 1 is a manifestation of the fact that the political system in Hong Kong fails to set up an institution to address the demands and grievances in society," Or said.

The plight of a dozen Hong Kong activists ages 16 to 33, who have been held on the mainland since attempting to flee to Taiwan by boat in August was among the concerns protesters wanted to highlight. China approved the arrests of 12 people matching their description on allegations of organizing or participating in an illegal border crossing, according to district prosecutors from the mainland city of Shenzhen in a statement late Wednesday.

Those who attend an unauthorized protest are liable for crimes ranging from inciting an unlawful assembly to rioting, a colonial-era charge that carries a sentence of as long as 10 years in prison. Still, thousands of Hong Kong residents defied warnings to return to the streets on Sept. 6, in a show of anger over the government's decision to postpone the election by a year over the pandemic. Hundreds were arrested.

Earlier this week, the Liaison Office warned that "the sword" of the security law was hanging over those who attempt to protest on the holiday. And Luo, the agency's director, told a National Day event Wednesday that the legislation had saved Hong Kong from falling into "the abyss of color revolution."

"Patriotism isn't a choice, but an obligation," Luo said.
New Delhi, Oct 1 : The Supreme Court has granted bail to a person accused under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

A bench comprising Justices R.F. Nariman, Navin Sinha and K.M. Joseph said: "We have perused Section 43D (5) of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. We have also perused the FIR, where the petitioner is not named, and, the relevant extracts of the charge sheet dated September 17, 2014, insofar as it relates to the petitioner." The bench did not agree with the Rajasthan High Court decision declining bail to accused Aadil Ansari, who was booked under Section 43D(5) of the UAPA for allegedly indulging in terror activities, and has spent close to six years in the jail.

Noting that it has also perused the high court order dated October 26, 2014 denying bail, the bench said: "We are satisfied that the High Court judgment stating that a prima facie case has been made out against the petitioner based on the public prosecutor's statement cannot be said to be strictly correct." Under the UAPA, it is considered extremely tough to get bail and the court can deny bail, if the prosecution suggests the allegations are "prima facie true".

The top court, in a short order in the matter, said: "Having perused these documents, without saying anything more, so as not to prejudice the trial, we set aside the judgment of the High Court and enlarge the petitioner on bail, subject to the usual conditions to be imposed by the trial court. The Special Leave Petition stands disposed of." The accused was facing trial under the UAPA for allegedly aiding the escape of a terror suspect from whose house police had recovered explosive material.

The prosecution had argued that there was prima facie evidence against Ansari, but advocate on record Irshad Hanif, representing him, contended that police did not have any solid evidence against him.
 Flash

China and India are holding the 19th meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on China-India Border Affairs, a Foreign Ministry spokesperson confirmed Wednesday.

Spokesperson Wang Wenbin made the remarks at a regular press conference when responding to a query about the issue.

The meeting is focusing on discussing the implementation of the five-point consensus reached by foreign ministers of the two countries at their meeting in Moscow, studying and solving the remaining issues on the ground, so as to ease tensions in the border areas, said Wang.
Hilary Teachout, my partner and lifes companion,, having undergone a long-awaited double lung transplant that failed. I went straight from her deathbed back into lockdown in the apartment in Upper Manhattan that we shared so happily for so long, and have spent nearly all of the time since then in solitude. Her death was the worst thing that has ever happened to me, and I have yet to find my way out of the twisted maze of grief into which I entered when she died. I still cry every day at the thought of my loss. As Ive said many times, if you could die from sadness, Id be dead now.

Having said what I wanted to say about Hilary in My Gallant Gal,not long after I lost her, I wont try to say it all again in a different way. I merely want to note the hardest lesson of grief, which is that even when you think youre starting to come out of it, youre not.

The lines of Rilke that Shostakovich set at the end of his Fourteenth Symphony, a symphonic song cycle about death, have been on my mind lately:

For me, the weeping is inseparably entangled with my memories of the adventures that Hilary and I shared during the decade and a half that we spent together, many of which I chronicled in this space. To think of them now is inevitably to remember my loss, and weep at the thought of it. I weep, too, whenever I listen to music, which fills me to overflowing with emotions of every kind: Hilary loved music above all things, and we shared it most days. For a long time I couldnt listen to itto anythingbut now I have started to bring it back into my life, which I hope is a sign of something good.

As I, I plan to scatter Hilarys ashes on Floridas Sanibel Island, the place she loved best. I hope to do so in December if the pandemic permits. The last words I spoke to her before she was wheeled into the operating room for her transplant were Get through this in one piece, my love, and Ill take you to Sanibel for Christmas. And so I shall.

In the meantime, my solitude has been relieved: I have turned Hilarys old bedroom into a guest room, and I took in an old friend in need last week. It is more comforting than I could have imagined to no longer live alone, to share my home with someone who knew Hilary well and with whom I can reminisce about her in the dark and unsparing hours. It was the solitude that was killing me, slowly but surely, and at last I am spared that once-ceaseless ache.

As for my grief, I now understand in the fullest sense that I have no control over it, and that it will last for a very long time. All I can do is take the smallest of steps out of the maze, and accept that I will continue to search blindly for the exit, perhaps for the rest of my life. Whatever awaits me in the future has yet to unfold itselfbut I think I can live with that. Hilary would have wanted me to do so, and I will do all I can to honor her wishes, to remember that I was fortunate to have her for as long as I did, and to have had the privilege of caring for my beloved partner as she gallantly approached the dark rendezvous. I will miss her as long as I live.

* * *

Conclusion, from Shostakovichs Fourteenth Symphony, performed by Galina Vishnevskaya, Mark Reshetin, Mstislav Rostropovich, and the Academic Symphony Orchestra of Moscow:

Imelda Staunton sings Stephen Sondheims Losing My Mind, from Follies:
The hilarious trailer to Borat 2 released Thursday reveals Sacha Baron Cohen was the Trump impersonator who crashed Mike Pences CPAC speech.

The film follows Kazakhstani character Borat Sagdiyev's journey to the US where he wears a fat suit and a Donald Trump face mask and bursts his way into the 2020 Conservative Political Action Conference convention in February.

Baron Cohen is seen carrying his daughter in the film over his shoulder and shouts to Pence: 'Michael Pennis Ive brought the girl for you!'

The hilarious trailer to Borat 2 released Thursday reveals Sacha Baron Cohen was the Trump impersonator who crashed Mike Pences CPAC speech in February. Baron Cohen pictured in a Trump mask and suit with his daughter in the movie over his shoulder shouting, 'Michael Pennis Ive brought the girl for you!'

Pence is seen giving Baron Cohen an angry glare for the interruption, about ten minutes into his speech at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in Maryland

At the time of the outburst no one knew who the impersonator who crashed the convention was. Baron Cohen pictured wearing a Trump mask and suit in his grand entrance

At the time the outburst made headlines and the impersonator was escorted out of the conference at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in Maryland after shouting about ten minutes into the speech about Trump.

Only now its revealed that Baron Cohen was the person behind the Trump costume.

In the sequel Borat seeks to gift his daughter to 'someone close to the throne' in the Trump administration, likely meaning Pence in the chaotic scene.

And the CPAC outburst isnt Baron Cohens sole foray into politics in the film.

Borat pictured dressing up as Trump for his political prank in the film

Borat pictured putting on his Trump mask complete with a blonde wig for his outburst

Baron Cohen shouted several statements about Trump and his daughter in the movie before security rushed him out

Pence continued his speech at the convention despite the prank and police escorted Baron Cohen off the premises

Baron Cohen was filmed back in July at a far-right rally getting attendees to sing along to a song about wanting to inject people like Dr. Anthony Fauci with coronavirus.

Former New York Mayor and Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani said in July he called the police after Baron Cohen tried to prank him.

Throughout much of the trailer the actor pokes fun at the coronavirus pandemic and Republican voters and politicians.

Other highlights from the trailer show Borat decide to get a disguise after realizing hes too recognizable and purchase a fat suit saying, 'I take this to be fat like American man.'

Looking at other outfits on display Borat asks if Harry Potter is a is 'a sex offender'.

Borat later asks a stranger outside a store if he can quarantine with them during the coronavirus lockdown crisis.

In the trailer Borat travels to the US and purchases a fat suit, saying: 'I take this to be fat like American man.'

Elsewhere during the trailer, the character decides to get a disguise after he is too recognizable to the public and he goes to a costume shop, where he asks if Harry Potter is a 'sex offender'

Ahem! Prior to the trailer release, Sacha posed for an extremely risque poster for the upcoming Borat 2 movie, ahead of its release on October 23 on Amazon Prime

Wearing a thong at the man's home and dancing, Borat asks: 'What's more dangerous... this virus or democrats?' to which the person and his friend both reply: 'Democrats!'

Borat then tries to kill the coronavirus with a hammer on the wall, to which the man explains you 'can't see it' and instead encourages him to spray Covid with an anti-bac spray.

The second Borat movie entitled The Borat Subsequent Moviefilm: Delivery of Prodigious Bribe to American Regime for Make Benefit Once Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan was filmed in secret and is set to be released by Amazon on October 23, less than two weeks before the 2020 presidential election.

Playing with poltics is a recurring theme in the comedians work.

His 2018 show This is America sees him play different characters and trick political names including former Vice President Dick Cheney, former Alabama Chief Justice Roy Moore, and former Republican Illinois Rep. Joe Walsh.

His pranks led Georgia State Rep. Jason Spencer to resign after Cohen tricked him into shouting the n-word and exposing his buttocks in a fake counter-terrorism training exercise.
Paris: Is dislodging African artwork from a European museum a political statement, or a criminal act? That's the question a French court weighed in an emotionally charged trial centred around a Congolese activist campaigning to take back art he says was plundered by colonisers.

It belongs to us! shouted a black woman watching the trial on Wednesday, breaking down in tears and storming out after a lawyer for Paris' Quai Branly Museum insisted that its holdings  including tens of thousands of artworks from former colonies  belong to the French state.

Congolese activist Mwazulu Diyabanza at the Palais de Justice courthouse, where he is on trial for for attempting to remove a 19th century African funeral pole from a Paris museum. Credit:AP

Congo-born Emery Mwazulu Diyabanza and four other activists went on trial on attempted theft charges for removing a 19th century African funeral pole from its perch in the museum in a June protest livestreamed on Facebook. Guards quickly stopped them; the activists argue that they never planned to steal the work but just wanted to call attention to its origins.

Lurking beneath nearly every exchange in the courtroom was the question of whether and how former empires should atone for colonial-era wrongs. The question took on new urgency after this year's global protests against racial injustice unleashed by George Floyds death in the US at the knee of a white policeman.
Education

Ph.D., Industrial and Operations Engineering, The University of Michigan; May 1997.

M.S., Industrial and Operations Engineering, The University of Michigan; Dec 1993.

B.A., Engineering Sciences, cum laude, Dartmouth College; Jun 1991.





Exchange program to Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan; Jan 1995 - Jul 1995.

Language Study Abroad Program to Puebla, Mexico; Mar 1989 - May 1989.

Current Appointment

Professor, Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Montana State University (Aug 2010 - present ).

Previous Appointments

Visiting Professor, Department of Product and Production Development, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden (Aug 2011 - Aug 2012).

Associate Professor, Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Montana State University (Aug 2003 - Jul 2010).

Assistant Professor, Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Montana State University (Aug 1997 - Jul 2003).

Consultant, Ann Arbor, MI (Sep 1996 - Aug 1997). Product development systems; Lean manufacturing and material logistics.

Fellow, Japan Technology Management Program, The University of Michigan (Jun 1993 - May 1996).

Research Assistant, Japan Technology Management Program, The University of Michigan (Jan 1993 - May 1993).

Co-op intern, Test Engineering, Northern Telecom, Inc., Raleigh, NC (Jan 1992 - Aug 1992).

Area Manager, Dartmouth Dining Services, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH (Sep 1987 - Jun 1991).

Awards

Best Paper Award,Industrial Engineering Research Conference, Engineering Management Division (2006)

Boeing Professorship, College of Engineering, MontanaState University (2005-2010).

Outstanding Research Award, Industrial and Management Engineering, Montana State University (2002, 2004).

Outstanding Instructor Award, Industrial and Management Engineering, MontanaStateUniversity(1998, 2003, 2006, 2008).

Award for Excellence, BozemanChamber of Commerce and MontanaStateUniversityAlumni Association (2003)

Best Dissertation Award, Technology Management Section of the Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences (1998).

Engineering Education Scholars Program participant, University of Wisconsin-Madison (1998).

Teaching and Learning at MSU Faculty Fellow (1998).

Shingo Prize for Excellence in Manufacturing Research (1997).

Young Scholars Award, The Association of Japanese Business Studies meeting, Washington, DC(1997).

Best Paper Award, American Society of Mechanical Engineers International Design Theory and Methodology Conference, Irvine, CA(1996).
On historian and royal biographer Robert Laceys desk is a large envelope, still sealed. It contains draft chapters from his latest book, which  as is his custom  he sent to Buckingham Palace pre-publication.

Its quite unusual for a royal writer to do this, but Lacey has always worked this way. In 1977, when he was more famous for being an investigative journalist, he wrote what is still regarded as the definitive biography of the Queen. Palace officials co-operated, and he was invited to have tea with senior courtiers.

He has never allowed his subjects to veto his work, but he says allowing them to see parts, not all of a book in advance is courteous and allows those involved to challenge key points, if necessary.

It allows debate, he says. If they dont agree with something, we can argue it out.

So he packed up the key chapters from his latest book and sent them off, fully aware that the Palace may not like some aspects of his forensic account of what is happening in the House of Windsor. He was a little surprised, though, when the package was returned to him, unopened, with a terse covering letter. In short, the Palace did not want to know.

Robert Laceys new book Battle Of Brothers picks apart the feud between Prince William and Prince Harry, a breach in the Royal family that is 'as dangerous as the Abdication', according to the Royal biographer

The historian sent off draft chapters from his latest book  as is his custom  to Buckingham Palace pre-publication. But he was surprised when the package was returned to him, unopened, with a terse covering letter. In short, the Palace did not want to know.

The problem? The book is called Battle Of Brothers, and it picks apart  in uncompromising detail  the feud between Prince William and Prince Harry. The Palaces response, to a previously trusted and respected author  one whose aristocratic wife was a maid of honour at the Queens Coronation  speaks volumes, he thinks.

They took fright over the title, probably, says Robert, acknowledging that, had it been opened, the book might have had the effect of a grenade.

But the title is correct, and important. When I started to look into this supposed feud between the two princes, I didnt believe it. I thought it was newspapers stirring up something that wasnt there. I didnt want to believe it, in truth. None of us does. Yet it most definitely exists. Actually, its worse than anyone thinks.

Some say, Oh, it doesnt matter. It will blow over. But thats not what historians will be saying in ten years time. If this breach between the brothers is not healed in some way it will come to stand with the Abdication crisis and the death of Diana as one of the traumas that changed the monarchy. There is time to change things in a positive direction, but at the moment the Palace is not working in that direction.

They took fright over the title, probably, says Robert (pictured with wife Lady Jane Rayne) acknowledging that, had it been opened, the book might have had the effect of a grenade

Roberts book  serialised in the Mail tomorrow and next week  paints a devastating picture of the fall-out from this breakdown in the once-close relationship between the two brothers. It traces the lives of both of them  and their very different spouses  from the moments they were born.

As we know, it is not the only new book to touch on the lives of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Its approach is very different, however, to that of Finding Freedom, by Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand, which tells the Harry and Meghan story from their point of view.

Too much so, he believes. It is very much written in the old- fashioned adulatory style of royal eulogy, he says. Does he believe the couple were directly involved in briefing the authors? Well, put it this way, there are some descriptions that could only have come from the lips of Harry or Meghan.

For his own book, Robert spent months talking to royal insiders about when the cracks in the brothers relationship started to appear (spoiler alert: it happened earlier than you think), and, pointedly, how the system of monarchy conspired to fan the flames of resentment rather than broker a compromise between the two.

'If this breach between the brothers is not healed in some way it will come to stand with the Abdication crisis and the death of Diana as one of the traumas that changed the monarchy,' said Robert. Pictured: King Edward VIII abdicating the throne in December 1936

Edward VIII's abdication in order to marry American divorcee Wallace Simpson was seen as the greatest crisis for the monarchy in the 20th century. Pictured: The Duke and Duchess of Windsor standing on stone steps in Miami in 1941

Thanks to Roberts reputation, countless individuals with direct knowledge of what happened agreed to help. Because of the sensitivities, the main sources declined to be named, but there was no shortage of people who did want to talk, because this is an issue there is huge concern about.

Robert, who is also a consultant on the Netflix series The Crown, once moved his family (he has three children with his first wife Sandi) to Jeddah to write a book on the Saudi royal family. He is impeccably connected. In 2012 he married widow Lady Jane Rayne, daughter of the 8th Marquess of Londonderry  but he points out that his professional reputation pre-dates all this.

Above all, he insists the relationship between the princes is critical to the future of the Royal Family. It matters, he says. Its a question of values, even about the national morale. The idea of our modern royalty was built on the idea of these two brothers.

What youve got to realise is that the whole strategy of the monarchy was based on them sticking together. Meghan changed all that. She is difficult. She has an incredible and dangerous level of self-belief.

But the Palace got this very wrong, as it always does with the second-born. They always treat the second-born badly, not to say cruelly. It happened with Princess Margaret. It happened with Prince Andrew. Its the classic heir and the spare thing. They just dont know what to do with the spare. And they certainly didnt know what to do with the spares wife.

The battle referred to in the title is, he agrees, about not just two brothers, two charming, talented but ultimately damaged young men, but about wider battles. Love versus duty. Tradition versus reinvention.

What of the Prince of Wales? Its noticeable that hes largely absent from our conversation today. It has been a long time since William has sought counsel from his father, Robert suggests, instead looking to his grandmother for guidance

Today, in conversation, Robert is both passionate about his subject and despairing. Not a single soul comes out of the book looking particularly good.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, as depicted in the book, are self-pitying, and assume an astonishing level of entitlement. Prince William is praised for having the duty gene but described as having a terrible temper. Even the Queen comes in for criticism. Harry is, by turns, hapless and hurt, but a young man who finds in Meghan an escape.

He finds new destiny, Robert says today. He realised there was something rotten at the heart of royalness that is not for him.

Then there is Diana, the late Princess of Wales, whom he describes as an anti-royal  he points out the parallels with Meghan, going as far as to say in her own way Meghan walks through minefields like Diana did. Metaphorical minefields.

The Prince of Wales? Its noticeable that hes largely absent from our conversation today. Doesnt he hold the key to bringing the feuding brothers back together?

When I started to look into this supposed feud between the two princes, I didnt believe it. I thought it was newspapers stirring up something that wasnt there. I didnt want to believe it, in truth. None of us does. Yet it most definitely exists. Pictured: Meghan and Harry speak in a Zoom interview with the Evening Standard from their new 11million home in Santa Barbara

Its approach is very different, however, to that of Finding Freedom, by Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand, which tells the Harry and Meghan story from their point of view

It has been a long time since William has sought counsel from his father, Robert suggests. William looks to his grandmother for his values, not to his father. He thinks his father has . . . lost his way. But perhaps there is still time for Charles to act. I hope so.

The book gives the impression everyone has rather lost their way. Robert is careful not to apportion blame but does believe the Palace handled the Meghan situation appallingly.

There is only one self-made millionaire in the Royal Family and that is Meghan Markle. If they had sat down with her at the start and said, Lets talk about the things you are interested in, things might have been different.

They just sent her off to watch the Queen opening the Mersey Bridge. There is nothing wrong with that, but they made the mistake of dealing with the spares wife thinking she was just a routine royal. She was never going to be a routine royal.

Nor should she have been, he argues. I dont want to go too deeply into the race thing, because that is another minefield altogether, but with Meghan the Royal Family had a mixed-race recruit, and for a monarchy that represents a mixed-race nation and a mixed-race commonwealth this was important. Is it any wonder Barbados and Jamaica are now saying, We are signing off. We can do without the Queen, thank you very much.

To have failed to hold on to their mixed-race recruit was a mistake.

Didnt the whole sorry mess come about because, as he puts it in the book, the Windsors dont do woke?

They dont do woke, but if they are to survive, the Windsors have to find their own way to do woke.

Today, he thinks the baton is mostly in Williams hand, and warns that the history of tomorrow is being written today.

Does Prince William want to go down in history as the king who couldnt hold his family together? This thing has to be resolved, one way or the other.

Harry and Meghan demand end to 'structural racism' in Britain: Prince reveals his 'awakening' to racial issues and defends Diversity's BGT dance - while Meghan describes BLM protests in the US as 'a beautiful thing'

ByRory Tingleand Mark Duell for MailOnline

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex today demanded an end to 'structural racism' in Britain.

In a wide-ranging interview from their 11million California mansion, Prince Harry revealed his 'awakening' to the discrimination faced by black people after meeting his wife.

Meanwhile, Meghan Markle praised Black Lives Matter protests in America after the death of George Floyd as 'beautiful' - but said this only applied to 'peaceful protest' and admitted many people found them 'inflammatory'.

Speaking on Zoom to the Evening Standard, Harry also weighed in on Diversity's controversial BLM dance routine on Britain's Got Talent and said he was 'surprised' by the negative comments it had received.

In a separate article for the newspaper, the couple said: 'As long as structural racism exists, there will be generations of young people of colour who do not start their lives with the same equality of opportunity as their white peers. And for as long as that continues, untapped potential will never get to be realised.'

The interview is the latest in a long series of political comments by the couple, including last week when Harry intervened in the US election by urging voters to 'reject hate speech'.

The comments - which broke royal protocol - were widely interpreted as a call to vote out Donald Trump. They prompted Buckingham Palace to immediately distance themselves from Harry by noting he was 'not working member of the Royal Family'.

Scroll down for a full transcript.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex called for an end to structural racism in Britain in an interview today with the Evening Standard

The couple gave today's interview to the Evening Standard over Zoom from their new mansion in Santa Barbara, California. In key developments -

Prince Harry said he had gone through an 'awakening' over racial issues after marrying Meghan Markle;

He said London 'doesn't feel as diverse as it actually is' for BAME people despite being celebrated as a bastion of multiculturalism;

Prince also defended dance troupe Diversity for their BLM-inspired dance and said he was 'surprised' by a wave of complaints to Ofcom;

He said Zoom had allowed him 'as much as humanely possible' to stay in touch with organisations he supported in the UK;

Meghan praised 'beautiful' Black Lives Matter protests in the US and said they were of 'historical significance';

Said life was 'so good' after moving to California and she was enjoying watching baby Archie grow up.

At a glance: Harry and Meghan on racism, Black Lives Matter and Diversity's controversial dance routine Harry - On racism: 'Because I wasn't aware of so many of the issues and so many of the problems within the UK and also globally as well. I thought I did but I didn't.' 'You know, when you go in to a shop with your children and you only see white dolls, do you even think: 'That's weird, there is not a black doll there?' And I use that as just one example of where we as white people don't always have the awareness of what it must be like for someone else of a different coloured skin, of a black skin, to be in the same situation as we are where the world that we know has been created by white people for white people.' 'It is not about pointing the finger, it is not about blame. I will be the first person to say, again, this is about learning. And about how we can make it better. I think it is a really exciting time in British culture and British history, and in world culture. This is a real moment that we should be grasping and actually celebrating. Because no one else has managed to do this before us.' On Diversity's BLM dance routine: 'We spoke to Ashley Banjo a few weeks ago, straight after the Britain's Got Talent situation. And that in itself, I am sure even me talking about it will be controversial, but the reality of it is he and his team of guys put on the most amazing display. 'We had such a good chat with Ashley. He was really strong, he felt great about it, but at the same time he was concerned because of the reaction. It was a real surprise that there was what? 1,100 complaints after the show and then three days of hype it became 20 or 25,000. I am very glad Ofcom made the decision that they did but that in itself kind of proves how much this conversation needs to continue.' On London: Harry said that even in London 'celebrated as one of the most diverse cities in the world, if you actually get out on to the streets and talk to people, it doesn't feel as diverse as it actually is. 'Therefore, now is the best time for us to be able to use our platform and you use your platform as well so we can actually start a conversation and introduce people to the black community that are making a massive difference within their own communities and across the UK as a whole as well.' On being away from the UK: 'Everything has been through video, everything has been in a room, somewhere. Actually it doesn't matter where in the world we have been, we have stayed in touch with and supported the organisations as much as humanly possible.' Meghan On BLM protests: '... when there is just peaceful protest and when there is the intention of just wanting community and just wanting the recognition of equality, then that is a beautiful thing. While it has been challenging for a lot of people certainly having to make this reckoning of historical significance that has got people to the place that they are, that is uncomfortable for people. We recognise that. It is uncomfortable for us.' On life in America: 'We are doing well. [Archie] is so good. We are very lucky with our little one. He is just so busy, he is all over the place. He keeps us on our toes. We are just so lucky. 'Everyone has been accustomed to what it means to be distanced. The impact of that, whether it is across the Pond or across town, you are still for the most part through a computer screen. We have all had to adapt to how we can have the most impact as possible within the constraints of what has happening with Covid-19. Like all of you, we are doing the best that we can and hoping that our passion and our commitment is still felt as it certainly hasn't wavered.' On nominating her BHM NextGen Trailblazers: 'An incredible example is Baroness Lawrence. Everything she has done in memory of her son [Stephen] is creating legacy across the UK in what it means to really push for the change that is necessary.' Their joint plea to tackle structural racism: 'For as long as structural racism exists, there will be generations of young people of colour who do not start their lives with the same equality of opportunity as their white peers. And for as long as that continues, untapped potential will never get to be realised.' Advertisement

The couple's interview comes at a key moment for race issues around the world after the killing of unarmed black man George Floyd by a US policeman sparked a wave of protest.

During the unrest this summer there were scenes of violence, arson and looting, and a number of businesses were targeted.

Asked for her views on the BLM protests, Meghan admitted they had been 'inflammatory for a lot of people'.

She continued: 'But when there is just peaceful protest and when there is the intention of just wanting community and just wanting the recognition of equality, then that is a beautiful thing.

'While it has been challenging for a lot of people certainly having to make this reckoning of historical significance that has got people to the place that they are, that is uncomfortable for people. We recognise that. It is uncomfortable for us.

'And I think when everyone just starts to own that, we push through that and focus on how do we make it different moving forward? And if we just focus on the uplift and the positivity of that, while still acknowledging the past, that's where we reshape things, and that shouldn't be inflammatory at all. That should be really exciting actually.'

Meghan said that BLM in the US was a 'different movement' from the one that existed in the UK.

Harry, 36, who at one point was joined on camera by the couple's Beagle, Guy, said he had become more aware of the issue of racism after marrying Meghan, 39.

He said: 'Because I wasn't aware of so many of the issues and so many of the problems within the UK and also globally as well. I thought I did but I didn't.'

'You know, when you go in to a shop with your children and you only see white dolls, do you even think: 'That's weird, there is not a black doll there?'

'And I use that as just one example of where we as white people don't always have the awareness of what it must be like for someone else of a different coloured skin, of a black skin, to be in the same situation as we are where the world that we know has been created by white people for white people.'

'It is not about pointing the finger, it is not about blame. I will be the first person to say, again, this is about learning.

'And about how we can make it better. I think it is a really exciting time in British culture and British history, and in world culture. This is a real moment that we should be grasping and actually celebrating. Because no one else has managed to do this before us.'

The Prince weighed in on the issue of the Diversity dance troupe's BLM inspired dance on Britain's Got Talent, which sparked 24,500 complaints to Ofcom.

'We spoke to Ashley Banjo a few weeks ago, straight after the Britain's Got Talent situation,' Harry said.

'And that in itself, I am sure even me talking about it will be controversial, but the reality of it is he and his team of guys put on the most amazing display.

'We had such a good chat with Ashley. He was really strong, he felt great about it, but at the same time he was concerned because of the reaction. It was a real surprise that there was what? 1,100 complaints after the show and then three days of hype it became 20 or 25,000. I am very glad Ofcom made the decision that they did but that in itself kind of proves how much this conversation needs to continue.'

Meanwhile, Harry spoke of how he had become more aware of issues of racial discrimination in society and questioned how far Britain had progressed.

The prince said they although London was celebrated as one of world's most diverse cities, 'If you actually get out on to the streets and talk to people, it doesn't feel as diverse as it actually is.

'Therefore, now is the best time for us to be able to use our platform and you use your platform as well so we can actually start a conversation and introduce people to the black community that are making a massive difference within their own communities and across the UK as a whole as well.'

The couple recently moved into a 11million mansion in Santa Barbara after breaking with the Royal Family and leaving the UK.

Meghan said the couple were 'doing well' and enjoying life with their baby, Archie.

She said: 'We are very lucky with our little one. He is just so busy, he is all over the place.

'He keeps us on our toes. We are just so lucky.

'Everyone has been accustomed to what it means to be distanced. The impact of that, whether it is across the Pond or across town, you are still for the most part through a computer screen.

'We have all had to adapt to how we can have the most impact as possible within the constraints of what has happening with Covid-19.

'Like all of you, we are doing the best that we can and hoping that our passion and our commitment is still felt as it certainly hasn't wavered.'

Harry said he was coping with being away from Britain by using Zoom to stay in touch with people at home.

'Everything has been through video, everything has been in a room, somewhere,' he said. 'Actually it doesn't matter where in the world we have been, we have stayed in touch with and supported the organisations as much as humanly possible.'

The couple have been repeatedly criticised for breaking royal protocol by intervening in politics - including by apparently telling Americans how to vote

Ashley Banjo in Diversity's Black Lives Matter themed dance routine that sparked thousands of complaints to Ofcom

Prince Harry defends Diversity's 'amazing' BLM-inspired BGT routine and says thousands of complaints to Ofcom were a 'real surprise' Prince Harry today praised Diversity's 'amazing' Black Lives Matter-inspired dance routine on Britain's Got Talent as he called for an end to 'structural racism' in Britain. In a wide-ranging interview from the Sussexes' 11million California mansion, Prince Harry said he was 'surprised' by the thousands of complaints made to Ofcom after the controversial performance. Speaking to the Evening Standard, Harry revealed he spoke to Diversity's leader Ashley Banjo after the troupe's routine sparked a massive backlash. He said: 'We spoke to Ashley Banjo a few weeks ago, straight after the Britain's Got Talent situation. And that in itself, I am sure even me talking about it will be controversial, but the reality of it is he and his team of guys put on the most amazing display. 'We had such a good chat with Ashley. He was really strong, he felt great about it, but at the same time he was concerned because of the reaction. It was a real surprise that there was what? '1,100 complaints after the show and then three days of hype it became 20 or 25,000. I am very glad Ofcom made the decision that they did but that in itself kind of proves how much this conversation needs to continue.' Ofcom said it would not take action against Diversity as it argued that the troupe's performance 'referred to challenging and potentially controversial subjects, and in our view, its central message was a call for social cohesion and unity'. Advertisement

Harry said he and Meghan hoped to use their high public profile to continue discussing racial discrimination.

He said: 'Now is the best time for us to be able to use our platform, joint with your platform as well, so that we can actually start a conversation and introduce people to the black community that are making a massive difference within their own communities but across the UK as a whole as well.

'So I think it's a month of celebration, and of course with a lot of other things going on in the UK and America and around the world at the moment, there can be parallels of connections to that, but essentially for us this is very much a celebration of Black History Month.'

To coincide with the interview the couple revealed their list of nominations for Black History Month's Next Generation Trailblazers, who were selected for challenging prejudice and contributing to British society.

Those nominated by the couple included Vogue editor Edward Enninful, Olympian boxer Nicola Adams, England rugby star Maro Itoje, the Met's Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu and Doreen Lawrence, mother of the murdered teenager Stephen Lawrence.

Discussing their nominations, Harry said: 'These are people that we know. People that we've interacted with over the years, people that have been mentioned to us by other people.

'Look, you know, this job has a certain uniqueness about it where we travel around the world, but we also visit all the communities, not all, but many communities within the UK, and the same names keep coming up.

'And we've been really just impressed, humbled and inspired at the same time by these individuals, whether it's Doreen Lawrence, or whether it's, you know, Neil Basu - these are people that are really, that are genuinely making a difference.'

Ending the interview, Meghan vowed that the couple would continue making their opinions known on issues that matter to them.

She said: 'You know, like all of you, we're doing the best that we can and hoping that our passion and our commitment is still felt, because it certainly hasn't wavered.'

At one point in the interview, the couple's Beagle, Guy, walked in on the interview, prompting Meghan to apologise.

The couple were interviewed by Evening Standard editor Emily Sheffield, and reporters Abbianca Makoni and Lizzie Edmonds

Meghan and Prince Harry's new home sits on 5.4 acres of land and immaculately clipped hedges border the estate's stone-pillared entry gates (pictured)

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have spoken out about the upcoming U.S. election, in a stark break with British tradition that prohibits royal involvement in politics

Black Lives Matter protests: How the death of George Floyd sparked a worldwide movement The death of George Floyd in May after a Minneapolis police officer knelt on his neck sparked a wave of Black Lives Matter-inspired protests in America and across the world. The video of Floyd - who was being arrested for allegedly using a counterfeit note - immediately went viral and his cry of 'I can't breathe' as he lay dying was adopted as a slogan of the movement. While the majority of protests have been peaceful, many have descended into violence and featured looting, rioting and at least 19 deaths. Activists have also sparked criticism for heir calls to strip police departments of their funding. The BLM cause was picked up across the world, sparking demonstrations in dozens of countries across Europe, Asia and Africa as well as Australia and New Zealand. In Britain, protesters have been criticised for defacing monuments, including the statue of Winston Churchill outside Parliament, which had to be boarded up. In one notable moment, BLM activists in Bristol tore down a statue of the slave trader Edward Colston and tossed it into the harbour. Asked on her thoughts of the BLM movement, Meghan said: 'The impetus is from a place of recognising equality and if you just go back to its ground level, I don't think there's anything controversial about it. 'What has been inflammatory for a lot of people is when any version of the community becomes disruptive. But when it's just peaceful protest and when there's the intention of just wanting unity and wanting recognition of equality, then that's a beautiful thing.' Advertisement

Today's interview was the latest in a series of political interventions by the Sussexes that have sparked significant controversy.

Last week, they were accused of 'over-stepping the line' after a thinly-veiled swipe at Donald Trump as they urged Americans to get out and vote in the upcoming election.

In the couple's most high-profile intervention in the US presidential election, Harry urged voters to 'reject hate speech, misinformation and online negativity'  all qualities critics associate with Mr Trump.

In a TV appearance to mark Time magazine's 100 most influential people roll call, Meghan  who has made no secret of her antipathy towards the president  described November's vote as the most important election of her lifetime.

Meanwhile, Harry complained that he had never been able to exercise his democratic right to vote because of the convention that, as a member of the British Royal Family, he should remain politically neutral.

Royal insiders voiced concern in Britain where the Queen and her family are expected to remain politically neutral at all times, with one saying that Harry and Meghan had 'crossed a line'.

Buckingham Palace also distanced itself from Harry's remarks by saying that 'the Duke is not a working member of the royal family' and describing his comments as 'made in a personal capacity'.

Harry and Meghan made their comments in a Time 100 video to go with the publication of this year's list of the most influential people, which does not include the royal couple.

'As we approach this November, it's vital that we reject hate speech, misinformation and online negativity,' said Harry.

This was a line some observers in Britain and the U.S. immediately took many be a plug for Joe Biden and a slap at President Trump.

'We're six weeks out from the election, and today is Voter Registration Day,' Meghan said.

'Every four years, we're told the same thing, 'This is the most important election of our lifetime.

'But this one is.

A protester holds a sign saying 'defund the police' at a protest backing Black Lives Matter in New York. Meghan said she thought peaceful protests were 'beautiful' but said she accepted some people found them 'inflammatory'
HAMILTON, Bermuda, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- White Mountains Insurance Group, Ltd. (NYSE: WTM) announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement to invest fresh capital in and to acquire a majority interest in Ark Insurance Holdings Ltd, the ultimate parent company of Ark Syndicate Management Limited.

Ark is a leading Lloyd's platform well positioned to take advantage of the hardening market in property & casualty insurance. Founded in 2007 by Ian Beaton and Nick Bonnar, Ark manages the underwriting of syndicates 4020 and 3902 at Lloyd's. The syndicates underwrite a diversified and balanced portfolio of reinsurance and insurance, including property, accident & health, energy, marine and political risks. Ark currently has approximately $500 million of stamp capacity. With White Mountains' capital, Ark plans to grow its business substantially by (i) increasing aligned capacity at its Lloyd's syndicates to 100%, (ii) increasing overall stamp capacity, (iii) converting Ark's existing Bermuda reinsurance entity into a Class 4 reinsurer and (iv) hiring talented underwriters in the London and Bermuda markets.

Manning Rountree, CEO of White Mountains, said "Ian, Nick and the rest of the Ark team have built a high-quality insurance business that puts underwriting first. We are delighted to partner with them, and we are excited about the market opportunity in front of us."

Ian Beaton, CEO of Ark, said "We are delighted to have found the right capital partner in White Mountains, an institution with a long track record of successful insurance partnerships. We look forward to a fruitful relationship."

White Mountains will contribute $605 million of equity capital to Ark, at a pre-money valuation of $300 million and will also purchase $41 million of shares from existing owners. White Mountains will commit to contribute up to an additional $200 million of equity capital to Ark in 2021. Total post-closing capitalization will exceed $800 million (and will exceed $1 billion if the additional $200 million is contributed in full).

At closing, White Mountains will own 72% of Ark on a basic shares outstanding basis (63% on a fully-diluted, fully-converted basis, taking account of a sweat equity plan for the go-forward Ark management team). If the additional $200 million is contributed in full, White Mountains will own 77% of Ark on a basic shares outstanding basis (67% on a fully-diluted, fully-converted basis). All shares outstanding not owned by White Mountains will be owned by management rollover shareholders, primarily Ian and Nick.

In the future, management rollover shareholders could earn additional shares in the company if and to the extent that White Mountains achieves certain multiple of invested capital return thresholds. These additional shares have the potential (i) to put rollover shareholders in the position that they would have been in had the current transaction taken place at a pre-money valuation of up to $450 million and (ii) to represent up to 12.5% of the shares outstanding at closing.

White Mountains expects the transaction to close in January 2021.

Slaughter and May acted as legal advisor to White Mountains. Evercore and TigerRisk Capital Market & Advisory acted as financial advisors to Ark, and Willkie Farr & Gallagher (UK) LLP acted as legal advisor to Ark.

About Ark

Ark manages the underwriting of syndicates 4020 and 3902 at Lloyd's. The syndicates underwrite a diversified and balanced portfolio of reinsurance and insurance business, including property, accident & health, energy, marine and political risks. Ark's high-quality underwriting teams are expert in their specialist areas, have a clear understanding of the needs of their clients and producers, and build business relationships for the long term.

About White Mountains

White Mountains is a Bermuda-domiciled financial services holding company traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Bermuda Stock Exchange under the symbol WTM. Additional financial information and other items of interest are available at the Company's web site located at www.whitemountains.com .

Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995

This press release may contain "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. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included or referenced in this press release which address activities, events or developments which White Mountains expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. The words "will," "believe," "intend," "expect," "anticipate," "project," "estimate," "predict" and similar expressions are also intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, among others, statements with respect to White Mountains's:

change in adjusted book value per share or return on equity;

business strategy;

financial and operating targets or plans;

projections of revenues, income (or loss), earnings (or loss) per share, dividends, market share or other financial forecasts;

expansion and growth of its business and operations; and

the future consummation of any transaction and the timing thereof, including any recapitalization, distribution, repurchase or financing.

These statements are based on certain assumptions and analyses made by White Mountains in light of its experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors believed to be appropriate in the circumstances. However, whether actual results and developments will conform to its expectations and predictions is subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations, including:

the risks that are described from time to time in White Mountains's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including but not limited to White Mountains's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 filed March 2, 2020;

the business opportunities (or lack thereof) that may be presented to it and pursued;

actions taken by ratings agencies from times to time, such as financial strength or credit ratings downgrades or placing ratings on negative watch;

the continued availability of capital and financing;

deterioration of general economic, market or business conditions, including due to outbreaks of contagious disease (including COVID-19);

competitive forces, including the conduct of other insurers;

changes in domestic or foreign laws or regulations, or their interpretation, applicable to White Mountains, its competitors or its customers;

an economic downturn or other economic conditions adversely affecting its financial condition; and

other factors, most of which are beyond White Mountains's control.

Consequently, all of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements, and there can be no assurance that the actual results or developments anticipated by White Mountains will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, White Mountains or its business or operations. White Mountains assumes no obligation to publicly update any such forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

CONTACT: Todd Pozefsky

(203) 458-5807

SOURCE White Mountains Insurance Group, Ltd.

Related Links

http://www.whitemountains.com


Dear County and District Superintendents, Charter School Administrators, and Middle and High School Principals:

Supporting the Annual Directing Change Program Student Film Contest

The California Department of Education (CDE) is pleased to continue supporting the annual Directing Change Program and Film Contest. This event is sponsored by Each Mind Matters: Californias Mental Health Movement and the California Mental Health Services Authority as part of a collaborative statewide effort to prevent suicide, reduce stigma and discrimination related to mental illness, and promote the mental health and wellness of students.

This statewide program invites California students from grades seven through twelve to create 60-second films about suicide prevention, mental health, and related cultural perspectives. The primary goal of the Directing Change Program is to support implementation and expansion of mental health and suicide prevention awareness efforts on school campuses.

Schools that participate in the program are eligible to receive mental health and suicide prevention resources. For more information about available resources to support your schools prevention efforts, please visit the Directing Change website at https://www.directingchangeca.org/.

Schools associated with the first-place winning film in each category, in each region, are eligible to receive $500 to support suicide prevention and mental health awareness programs and activities at their school (subject to availability of funding and one prize per school).

In response to California Assembly Bills 2246 and 1767 (California Education Code Section 215), school governing boards serving pupils in kindergarten through twelfth grades are required to adopt and implement suicide prevention policies. The Directing Change Program has been working with districts throughout the state to assist them in implementing suicide prevention policies. For more information on how to implement suicide prevention policies, please visit the CDE Youth Suicide Prevention web page at https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/cg/mh/suicideprevres.asp.

I encourage all school staff to promote this film contest across their middle and high school campuses to all students. We are all committed to preserving the health, safety, and well-being of our students. To achieve this, mental health and suicide prevention must be a top priority in our schools. By working together and incorporating the student perspective in this campaign, we will increase awareness of the mental health issues our students face and reduce youth suicide.

If you have any questions regarding this subject, please contact Stan Collins, Program Coordinator, Directing Change, by email at Stan@SuicideIsPreventable.org, or Monica Nepomuceno, Education Programs Consultant in the CDE School Health and Safety Office, by email at mnepomuceno@cde.ca.gov.

Sincerely,

Tony Thurmond

State Superintendent of Public Instruction

TT:mn

2020-05645
It is not only time for judicial reform. But it's also time for the police department to have a strategic plan to restructure into a new type of department that works better with and for the community. The narrative from the public is that the police need more training. And the Chattanooga Police Department constantly goes through training. For, in September they have a street crime training course. The Issue I have has raised numerous times to the City Council is that training and policy seemingly are ignored. The department should look to abide by the Peelian principles.





It is time for the CPD to have a de-escalation non-lethal approach to responding to most crimes, especially mental health calls. I hope to see community precincts placed within the community. These precincts would rent space from the community or rec centers. It is also time that policy and training are maintained to keep a safe and productive department. It is time to bring the department up to date technology-wise to allow for a more open to the public department. I would also like to see the police create a Citizen Advisory Board and also a Civilian Oversight Board.I hope to see that a policy to de-escalate is added to the department's policy and is upheld to the highest standards of integrity.





The use of force, including less-lethal weaponry, is not new to policing, and in any use-of-force incident, injury is a possibility. Researchers have estimated that between 15 and 20 percent of arrests involve the use of force. A group of researchers led by Geoffrey P. Alpert, professor of criminology and criminal justice at the University of South Carolina, recently completed an NIJ-funded study of injuries to officers and civilians during use-of-force events. Injury rates to civilians ranged from 17 to 64 percent (depending on the agency reporting) in use-of-force events, while injury rates to officers ranged from 10 to 20 percent. Most injuries involved minor bruises, cuts, and abrasions. Major injuries included dog bites, punctures, broken bones, internal, and gunshot wounds. Some of the injuries that happen to suspects can result in lawsuits and further action is taken.



Advances in less-lethal technology offer the promise of more effective control over resistive suspects with fewer serious injuries. Pepper spray was among the first of these newer, less-lethal weapons to achieve widespread adoption by police forces. More recently, conducted energy devices (CEDs), such as the Taser, have become popular.





The researchers conducted a combined analysis of use-of-force data from 12 large local law enforcement agencies (including Miami-Dade, Seattle, and Richland County). The large sample, representing more than 24,000 use-of-force incidents, allowed the researchers to use statistical techniques to determine which variables were likely to affect injury rates. The use of physical force (e.g., hands, fists, feet) by officers increased the odds of injury to officers and suspects alike. However, pepper spray and Controlled Electronic Device (CED) use decreased the likelihood of suspect injury by 65 and 70 percent, respectively. Officer injuries were unaffected by CED use, while the odds of officer injury increased about 21 percent with pepper spray use.





In 22 cases, researchers interviewed both the officers and the suspects involved in an incident. Suspects often told a different story than the officer who arrested them. In almost all cases, suspects said officers used excessive force and that they were not resisting. Some suspects said officers used Tasers early in the interaction, and several said the officers seemed to enjoy watching them endure the pain. Some suspects said officers kneed them in the back and kicked or punched them after they were in handcuffs. Some also said officers used Tasers on them after they were handcuffed.





CED use is widespread and often controversial. Based on their findings, the researchers involved in this study made recommendations about whether and how CEDs should fit into the range of less-lethal force alternatives available to law enforcement officers. Most law enforcement agencies instruct officers in CEDs and have policy guides for officers regarding appropriate responses to an escalation of activities in an encounter with a civilian. "The use-of-force continuum" is a phrase to describe this kind of guide. The continuum of a particular agency may cover a full spectrum of actions from no-force and de-escalation, in which having officers present is enough to defuse the situation or deter crime, to lethal force, in which officers use deadly weapons. If injury reduction is the primary goal, however, agencies that deploy pepper spray and CEDs are clearly at an advantage. Both weapons prevent or minimize the physical struggles that are likely to injure officers and suspects alike.





Although, CEDs can be used inappropriately, law enforcement executives can manage this problem with strong policies, training, monitoring, and accountability systems that provide clear guidance (and consequences) to officers regarding when and under what circumstances CEDs should and should not be used.

Besides setting the resistance threshold appropriately (that is, determining the level of suspect resistance at which officers should be allowed to use CEDs), good policies and training would require that officers evaluate the age, size, sex, apparent physical capabilities, and health concerns of a suspect. In addition, policies and training should prohibit CED use in the presence of flammable liquids or in circumstances where falling would pose unreasonable risks to the suspect (e.g., in elevated areas, adjacent to traffic, etc.). Policies and training should address CEDs used on suspects who are controlled (e.g., handcuffed or otherwise restrained) and should either prohibit such use outright or limit it to clearly defined aggravated circumstances.

In addition to the possibility of CEDs being used in too many cases (i.e., inappropriately in instances of low-level resistance), there are also concerns about CEDs being used too many times in a single case. Deaths associated with CED use often involve multiple CED activations (more than one CED at a time) or multiple five-second cycles from a single CED. CED policies should require officers to assess continued resistance after each standard cycle and should limit use to no more than three standard cycles. Following CEDs deployment, the suspect should be carefully observed for signs of distress and should be medically evaluated at the earliest opportunity.



The use of a non-lethal approach should consider utilizing not only the aid of interested civilians but also other items such as Ballistic shields, new technologies, and also utilizing police discretion. All of these changes would require additional training and policy updates. And that a de-escalating non-lethal approach should be the first response as much as possible. Which should be based on the organization International Association of Chiefs of Police National Consensus Policy on Use of Force. Which if reviewed promotes de-escalation first.

The thought of using police discretion and its utilization can ultimately change the relationship the police department has with the community. The Chattanooga Police Department's policy on police discretion is vague. The CPD should look to clearly define Police Discretion And to adopt a new policy based on what has been put out by the National Institute for Justice and Police Dynamics training course. Officer discretion is a powerful, basic tool in policing. Removing officer discretion by creating "must arrest" offenses would result in too many unnecessary arrests while creating "can't arrest" offenses would result in people ignoring the existing laws. The basic rule is to let the nature of the offense determine the range of options and let the character of the offender determine which option you choose.

To address Mental health issues I would like to see more crisis intervention training along with policy changes and social workers to address the situation without causing harm. Studies have shown that people with mental health issues are 16 times more likely to be killed by officers than other suspects. I want people to understand that there is a broad range of situations in which police encounter people with mental illnesses. These encounters may involve domestic disturbances that occur in a private home, mental health crises, reports of victimization, street stops for identification check, response to significant criminal behavior, or public disturbances/disorderly conduct. With effective programs and training, it can help officers de-escalate situations and get people the help they need. It would also aid in Judicial reform. The department needs to strive to build a better relationship with people who have mental illnesses. So not only that part of the community is looked after but if something was to happen they would not be fearful of help.

I would like to see small police precincts placed at community or rec centers. This would allow the police to not only take a new approach to police the community but to be able to work with the community as well. It could also strengthen the CPDs Youth Programs. And in the long run, it could save on gas costs. The police could use bikes or walk around the community. This would also allow the police department to invest funding into the community. The officers role would change to a more Peace officer base. Part of their duties would include reporting potholes, sewer issues, broken sidewalks, and other issues in the community. They would be able to aid the community members in strategic approaches to issues in the community. It could also allow community members to aid in policing their community as well. Although this seems all feasible, I would like to have a cost-benefit analysis to make sure the burden to the taxpayer isn't substantial.

The police department has a need to update technology. With a city that population is growing and housing that is getting closer together. The need for a technology-based approach is needed. This would include the police to have a website that is not tied to the city of Chattanoogas. A website that has the department's policy posted for the public to see. A website where real-time data is kept up to date. A better-made application that can allow officers and the public to give feedback and real-time reporting of crimes and issues. Because real-time input whether it is good or bad can help a Department move forward. I would like to see the policy changed pertaining to video camera audits where they are more routinely performed. I would like to see the police department make efforts to stay updated with technology.

I would like to see the Police Department work with the Chattanooga Fire Department to create a commission style board that meets once a month to address issues in their departments and allow for public input. This would be in conjunction with a citizen Advisory board and Citizen oversight board.

A Citizen Advisory board can be defined as a group of individuals appointed for the purpose of examining a public issue or set of issues, who meet over an extended period and develop alternative solutions and new ideas through comprehensive interaction. Rather than being open to all members of the public, a citizen advisory board is restricted to a small number of individuals who are expected to represent the interests of the public. A board may be asked to conduct research, generate new ideas or solutions, or provide informed recommendations on public policies and practices. What a citizen advisory board should not be is a policy-making body; otherwise, the ability of the police executive to do his or her job will be compromised.

In May of 2019, the city voted to create a citizen oversight board. Citizen oversight should involve a city agency independent of the law enforcement agency with responsibility for reviewing either citizen complaints against officers, or the policies and practices of the agency, or both. There are two basic forms of a citizen oversight board. One where the Citizen review board is responsible for reviewing citizen complaints against officers. Only a few review boards, however, have the authority to conduct their own independent investigations of complaints. The other style of review board reviews the investigations conducted by the police departments internal affairs units. Our city will have to carefully assess the needs of the community and the cost-benefits of the oversight program they adopted. The key question is whether the oversight system is sufficiently independent - in terms of political, professional, and financial independence and authorityto do what is needed and what is asked of it.

I would like the public to understand that a large portion of the police department's budget goes towards their pension funds. Their primary training officer Ronald Zirk also has a business to train others at 6212 Highway 58 called Zirkops. I want everyone to know that changes will take a community effort. I would like to one day see marijuana become decriminalized, and other codes on the citys charter gone over. Department policies need to reflect the laws. It's time for Chattanooga to become a city where everyone is proud to live, grow up, and grow old at. With your help we all can strive to make a better Chattanooga.



The 9 Peelian Principles:

Peelian Principle 1 - The basic mission for which the police exist is to prevent crime and disorder.

Peelian Principle 2 - The ability of the police to perform their duties is dependent upon public approval of police actions.

Peelian Principle 3 - Police must secure the willing co-operation of the public in voluntary observance of the law to be able to secure and maintain the respect of the public.

Peelian Principle 4 - The degree of co-operation of the public that can be secured diminishes proportionately to the necessity of the use of physical force.

Peelian Principle 5 - Police seek and preserve public favor not by catering to the public opinion but by constantly demonstrating absolute impartial service to the law.

Peelian Principle 6 - Police use physical force to the extent necessary to secure observance of the law or to restore order only when the exercise of persuasion, advice, and warning is found to be insufficient.

Peelian Principle 7 - Police, at all times, should maintain a relationship with the public that gives reality to the historic tradition that the police are the public and the public are the police; the police being only members of the public who are paid to give full-time attention to duties which are incumbent on every citizen in the interests of community welfare and existence.

Peelian Principle 8 - Police should always direct their action strictly towards their functions and never appear to usurp the powers of the judiciary.

Peelian Principle 9 - The test of police efficiency is the absence of crime and disorder, not the visible evidence of police action in dealing with it.

Chris Dahl

Candidate for Mayor of Chattanooga

* * *

Always be suspect of a politician who takes a half-hour to express a :05 second thought. Mr. Dahl, allow me to paraphrase your diatribe:

I want to defund the police and reform them in my image.

The Chattanooga Police Department is an honorable law-enforcing organization, adhering to the singular purpose of protecting the citizens of this city. Few are as articulate as you, Mr. Dahl and thank God for that. Hamilton County and Chattanooga law enforcement officers do their jobs for less pay than equivalent departments around the nation, in an atmosphere where wannabe politicians believe the singular solution is holding them responsible for all your ails.

Your problem isnt that you dont get it, you just cant sell it. (The American President). I know too many officers who simply dont fit your opinion of them.

The race hasnt even begun and you have already lost my vote.

David Fihn

* * *

I skimmed over the majority of that tripe but my main takeaway, as Mr. Fihn notes, is

"Defund the police"

The whole idea is pure nonsense. If Mr. Dahl is assaulted and robbed on Market Street in the middle of the day is he going to call the police or a social worker who will come out to see him in a couple of days and pat him on the back and tell him everything's OK and the person who assaulted him just needed money to feed his wife and kids?

I would express even more of my opinion but then the editor would not publish it.

I have no idea who you are but you are off my list of possible candidates.





Dennis Wooden
A2AC Murals project celebrates downtown

Ten highly visible works of art beautify the city's "creative district"

by Trilby MacDonald

Published in October, 2020

The Ann Arbor Art Center's A2AC Murals project pairs downtown building owners with muralists from Ann Arbor and around the world to embellish a portion of the West Side which the organization and local businesses have dubbed Ann Arbor's "creative district." At a time when many in the community are struggling financially, including some vital service organizations, launching a crowdfunding campaign in support of public art could seem frivolous. "I absolutely wanted to cancel," says Marie Klopf, executive director of the Ann Arbor Art Center. "But I got so much pushback from the team. 'This is the perfect time,' they said."



They found a $50,000 grant through the Michigan Economic Development Corporation that would support the project if it could be matched by donations from the public. The donations came in. "I am still blown away," says Klopf. "We didn't let this stop us from being a creative community and investing in that. How wonderful to have something beautiful born in a time in darkness."



The Art Center commissioned the murals from ten artists with a diverse range of styles, ethnicities, and points of view. Artist Gary Horton is an Ann Arbor native who studied fine art at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh. As a student he worked with oil paint but lived with graffiti artists who taught him to create illicit works of public art with spray paint. These two styles blend in his futuristic skyscape populated by electric eyes opposite the Circ Bar's new outdoor patio. Horton used a cherry picker to reach the higher portions of the wall.



"Being a muralist took my career to the next level," he says. "I just think this is a great time to be an artist. I mean, if you're bad at anything, this is your chance to get good at it. Seriously--sharpen your game. That's what I did."



Chris Dokebi moved to Ann Arbor three years ago with his wife, a grad student at U-M. He works

...continued below...
More than 250,000 current and former McDonald's workers in Australia could be entitled to payouts of more than $1,800 from the fast food giant.

Shine Lawyers and the Retail and Fast Food Workers Union are leading a class action against McDonalds' over claims it failed to provide employees with paid rest breaks.

The class action comes after former McDonald's worker Chiara Staines won a case against Brisbane McDonald's franchisee Tantex Holdings in late August.

Justice John Logan concluded it was a 'workplace right' to access the toilet or drink water and Ms Staines was paid $1,000 in compensation and $800 for time not paid.

Chiara Staines (pictured) won a case against Brisbane McDonald's franchisee Tantex Holdings for failing to provide breaks in late August. The case has set a legal precedent for a class action against McDonald's that claims to represent more than 250,000 fast food workers

Vicky Antzoulatos from Shine Lawyers said Ms Staines' successful case has set a legal precedent for the class action to take place.

'This breach could be the tip of the iceberg with potentially hundreds of thousands of staff, both past and present, affected, if McDonald's and its franchisees have breached the Fair Work Act across the board,' Ms Antzoulatos said.

'Every Australian McDonald's worker has the legal right to a paid break when working a shift of four hours or more. This is in addition to workers' rights to access the toilet or to take a drink of water outside scheduled breaks.'

Darcy Dunlop, 22, worked at McDonald's for over four years and had progressed to the role of Area Leader when he was refused paid breaks for his team members at the Erina fast-food franchise in NSW, in 2018.

'You can't sit, you can't lean, you can't go to the toilet without permission or get a drink water, and if you ask for your owed break to be rostered in, you look like you're letting your whole team down by being a trouble-maker,' Mr Dunlop said.

'Your stress levels rise, the kitchen feels hotter, the finish line to a shift feels even further away, and I know this impacts on workers right across Australia, which is why I urge everyone to get involved.'

McDonald's workers in Stockland Shopping Mall in Sydney. Workers could be entitled to more than $1,800 for unpaid breaks from McDonald's depending on the amount of hours worked

Ms Antzoulatos said break denials primarily affected young people as 80 per cent of affected workers are estimated to be under 21.

She said the 250,000 workers could each be entitled to more than $1,800 depending on the amount of hours worked and breaks denied.

'She (Ms Staines) received $1,000 in compensation and $800 for her unpaid rest breaks. So, if you extrapolate that off the entire McDonald's network, it's a very sizeable sum,' Ms Antzoulatos said on Sunrise.

If the 250,000 workers were paid the same amount as Ms Staines ($1,800), McDonald's would have to fork out a total of $450 million.

A McDonald's spokesman said they are 'yet to receive any notification of the proposed class action and are unable to comment on the veracity of the trade association's claims'.

'We continue to work closely with our restaurants to ensure employees receive all the correct workplace entitlements and pay,' he said.

'We are of course disappointed this did not happen in the instance of Tantex Holdings Pty Ltd.

'As was represented to the Court at the time, the franchisee's breach of the Enterprise Agreement was unintentional and did not result in any form of underpayment of wages.'

Ms Staines was paid $1,000 in compensation and $800 for time not paid. Vicky Antzoulatos from Shine Lawyers said a 'sizeable sum' could be owed to 250,000 Australian workers

The spokesman said franchisee Tantex Holdings has now implemented processes to ensure ongoing compliance with paid breaks.

Fast Food Workers Union Secretary Josh Cullinan said a potential nationwide breach of agreement could have mass implications.

'They've got young, vulnerable and hardworking crews locked into a huge system that appears to be great for McDonald's but is crippling the workers,' Mr Cullinan said.

'When we litigated Ms Staines' case she was paid over $1,800 in compensation and we believe her experience is the average experience for a quarter of a million Australian workers who have worked at McDonald's since September 2014.'

Current and former McDonald's workers who have worked at the food outlet from September 2014 to date are eligible to register their interest for this potential class action online at: https://mcdonaldsclassaction.shine.com.au/Registration
Technology Innovators, a knowledge sharing platform frequently highlighting the best of the best in various industries, has named Vesta Teleradiology, already a Top 10 Telemedicine Service Company in the United States, a Top 20 Innovator in Telemedicine for the year 2020. (https://www.technology-innovators.com/top-20-innovators-in-telemedicine-of-2020)

Vesta's services are provided by remote, state-licensed physicians, reducing on-site staffing needs, connecting facilities with specialists nationally, while also mitigating risks for centers and staff in a time of heightened health concern. A pioneer in supportive diagnostic workflow technology and quality diagnostic services, Vestas internal IT team is able to review the latest technologies that are available in the market and customize them in a way to fit the needs of its clients while maintaining a high quality and productivity of its physicians.

The remote nature of our business, combined with industrys leading technology capability and workflow implementation, has allowed us to provide clients, physicians and patients access to much-needed support, in an innovative way, said Vijay Vonguru, President of Vesta Teleradiology. As I mentioned in the article (https://www.technology-innovators.com/vesta-teleradiology) from Technology Innovators regarding this honor, the key is to strike a balance with technology as an enabler for innovation, and how it interacts with best-in-class customer experience.

To help during the current heightened healthcare climate, Vesta also announced earlier this year that it has waived setup costs for teleradiology, even for the need of temporary backup coverage, and also implemented the industrys first three-year rate guarantee to help offset the tremendous financial pressure facilities are facing with falling reimbursements, stricter billing requirements and consumerism of healthcare. Vesta announced this guarantee to all current and new clients.

About Vesta Teleradiology

Vesta brings teleradiology solutions and services, providing 24x7x365 access to highly qualified board-certified radiologists through a secure PACS. Vesta, a Healthcare Tech's Top 10 Telemedicine Service Company in the United States, offers comprehensive and affordable radiology and other telemedicine services for its partners. Vesta has been a pioneer in supportive diagnostic workflow technology and quality diagnostic services, steadfast in its passion to remain at the forefront of innovation in healthcare. Prospective clients are offered a free test drive of Vestas teleradiology service. For more information, please visit http://www.vestarad.com.

Technology Innovators

Technology Innovatorss digital magazine outlining the Top 20 Innovators in Telemedicine can be found at https://www.technology-innovators.com/telemedicine-ceos-edition-2020.
Intense fighting continued overnight between forces from Azerbaijan and Armenia over the disputed Nagorno Karabakh region.

Azerbaijan's Defence Ministry released video on Thursday, which it says shows their forces firing artillery toward Armenian positions.

The fighting continued despite repeated calls for a cease-fire from around the globe.

According to officials in Nagorno-Karabakh, around 100 service members and several civilians on their side have been killed since the fighting erupted on Sunday.

Azerbaijani officials didn't provide details on its military casualties but said 14 civilians had been killed and 46 wounded on its side.

This story has not been edited by www.republicworld.com and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.
Pennsylvania Secretary of State Kathy Boockvar on Wednesday said an election worker in Luzerne County made a mistake when they threw out nine military ballots, and it was not "intentional fraud."

During an online press conference, Boockvar said that the "investigation is still going on, but from the initial reports we've been given, this was a bad error. This was not intentional fraud. So training, training, training." The ballots were found in Wilkes-Barre, and the unidentified worker who tossed them has been fired.

During a Fox News Radio interview last Thursday, President Trump announced that several ballots in his favor had been discarded, and a few hours later, the Trump-nominated U.S. Attorney in Harrisburg, Dave Freed, took the unusual step of releasing a statement saying an investigation into the matter was underway.

Jonathan Marks, Pennsylvania's deputy secretary for elections, told The Associated Press that sometimes military and overseas ballots are returned to Luzerne County in envelopes that do not clearly indicate they are ballots, and workers are now receiving extensive training on how to handle them. The unidentified worker who was fired did not ask for help with the ballots before they were discarded, AP reports, and it is unclear who found them.

More stories from theweek.com

7 savagely funny cartoons about the Trump tax revelations

Trump flew to New Jersey for a fundraiser, reportedly after learning Hope Hicks had COVID-19 symptoms

President Trump has COVID-19. What happens now?


Facebook Broussard with Ryatt

A young mother is behind bars in Louisiana, accused of negligent homicide in the hot-car death of her 2-year-old son, according to local news outlets.

Natalie Broussard was arrested on Monday, and is being held with no bond in the Lafayette Parish Correctional Center, reports KNOE-TV, KLFY-TV, and KATC-TV.

The Lafayette Parish Coroner's Office identified the deceased toddler as Ryatt Hensley.

Ryatt died from heatstroke, the autopsy confirmed.

Ryatt was discovered inside a hot vehicle on Sunday afternoon.

The reports fail to indicate how long Ryatt is believed to have been in the vehicle prior to being found.

Police were called to Broussard's home in Duson on Sunday just before 2 p.m.

She was charged with negligent homicide Monday, following a brief investigation into the boy's death.

Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases.

Broussard has yet to appear before a judge to enter pleas to the charges.

PEOPLE was unable to ascertain information on her attorney, if she has one.

Ryatt is the 23rd child to die in a hot car in America this year.

On average, 26 percent of U.S. hot car deaths are the result of children getting into vehicles on their own and not being able to get out, KidsandCars.org reported.

To avoid hot car deaths, KidsandCars.org recommends parents keep their vehicles locked at all times, never leave car keys within reach of children, and teach children to honk the horn if they become stuck inside a car.
The victim, a 19-year-old Dalit girl was gangraped Yogi Adityanath-ruled Uttar Pradesh's Hathras allegedly by four men on 14 September. After her condition deteriorated, she was referred to Delhi's Safdarjung hospital where she breathed her last on Tuesday

The Uttar Pradesh Police's seemingly bungled handling of the Hathras gangrape and murder has come under the scanner with many, both in the press and on social media, questioning why the body of the Dalit teen was hastily burned in the middle of the night and expressing skepticism on the police's claim that there is 'no evidence of rape'.

The victim, a 19-year-old Dalit girl was gang-raped in Uttar Pradesh's Hathras allegedly by four men on 14 September. After her condition deteriorated, she was referred to Delhi's Safdarjung hospital where she breathed her last on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, a Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court on Thursday issued summons to the Uttar Pradesh additional chief secretary, director general of police and additional director general of police, telling them to be present before the court on 12 October to explain the case. The court has also told media houses such as Indian Express, The Times of India, AajTak, NDTV, to produce the material and content on the basis of which they have reported on the cremation of the Dalit rape victim.

No rape claim finds few takers

Uttar Pradesh ADG Prashant Kumar, speaking to PTI on Thursday, said, "The report of the Forensic Science Lab clearly says samples did not have sperm. It makes clear that there was no rape or gang rape."

But experts told NDTV that the samples were collected days after the incident  which occurred on 14 September  and sperm would thus not be present in the report.

A scientific officer at a government forensic department, who did not wish to be named, told NDTV, "The post-mortem report mentions old healed injuries to her private parts, though how old is not mentioned. The injuries would have healed during her medical treatment. The report does not commit to rape as it's not the cause of death and a serological examination report is awaited."

Earlier on Thursday, Hathras superintendent of police Vikrant Vir was quoted as saying, The medical report from the Aligarh Muslim University Medical College mentions that there were injuries but it does not confirm forced sexual intercourse. They are waiting for a report of the forensics. As of now, doctors say that theyre not confirming rape.

It should be noted though that as per a 2013 verdict of the Supreme Court and recent amendments, Section 375, which defines rape, was widened to include acts other than forcible peno-vaginal penetration or sexual intercourse.

The Uttar Pradesh Police's claims in the Hathras case have also been met with skepticism after it was reported that the police, in the wee hours of Thursday morning forcibly took the teen's body and cremated it.

In case you are wondering why the brutalised Hathras teen was cremated post midnight using petrol by the UP police. New claim she was never gang raped https://t.co/gvIK3QsY26  Swati Chaturvedi (@bainjal) October 1, 2020

I wonder why the body was burned by the police in the middle of the night. https://t.co/wNVBOkV2a0  Karuna Nundy (@karunanundy) October 1, 2020

The family reportedly begged that the police allow them to take her body and perform last rites the next morning but could not even get a last glimpse of the teen, as they were locked in their home.

A piece in The Telegraph pointed out that such a tactic is usually employed by the police in cases of the militants' funerals and is often employed to avoid flare-ups.

An uncle of the 19-year-old victim told the newspaper he was standing outside the girls home when some policemen grabbed me and forcibly took me to the cremation ground and shot a video to show I had attended the funeral.

He said that after placing the body on the pyre the policemen poured a liquid from a plastic container on the pyre and burnt the body. He added that no holy water ritual or mukhagni (a fire ritual) was done.

People were protesting at various places along the highway in Hathras. The police clandestinely cremated her, instead of handing the body over, to prevent the funeral triggering an outpouring of emotion and anti-government protests, the victims elder brother told The Telegraph.

Local police officers, however, told PTI the cremation was carried out "as per the wishes of the family".

ADG Kumar's threat of legal action against those he accused of 'twisting the matter to stir caste-based tension' did no favours for the Uttar Pradesh's Police's credibility in the eyes of many.

NC Asthana, retired IPS officer and former DGP Kerala, told The Wire it is wrong to discount the possibility rape in this case.

"According to the definition of rape as amended by the Criminal Law Amendment Act, 2013, penetration of the vagina by the penis in the conventional sense of intercourse is not at all necessary to constitute the offence of rape. Now, insertion, to any extent, of any object or a part of the body into the vaginal urethra, or anus of a woman also constitutes rape.

'To any extent' is the critical part. It means that the slightest contact with the concerned part would also make for rape, he said.

Asthana further told The Wire that old tears in a woman's hymen, as the report suggests, are of "little consequence" when it comes to the offense.

It is well known that the hymen can be ruptured due to various types of physical activities. It therefore does not matter whether the victim was a virgin or not. Once again, the law on this is absolutely clear, Asthana further told The Wire.

Allahabad HC takes suo moto notice

Taking suo moto cognisance, the Allahabad bench, while summoning top officials, also directed the Hathras district magistrate and senior superintendent of police to appear before it.

The bench told all officials to come prepared with all the relevant material and documents to apprise the court of their versions of the incident.

The court, which appeared especially upset over the police cremating the teens body overnight allegedly forcibly in Hathras without her parents consent, also directed officials to apprise the bench of the latest status of the probe into the alleged gang-rape and murder case.

The bench also asked the late teens parent to come to the court to apprise it of their version of the incident and ordered the Hathras district administration to arrange for their travel to the court.

Meanwhile, the family of the victim on Thursday accused the district administration of pressuring them against repeatedly changing their statement and demanded a CBI probe. The father of the Dalit teen, claimed that he was pressured into going to a police station where the district magistrate and police officials made three members of his family sign some document.

'Want CBI probe,' says rape victim's father

But we are not satisfied with this. My daughter's case should be probed by the CBI and monitored by a Supreme Court judge. We are under pressure from officials and confined to our home while the media has also been disallowed from meeting us, the victim's father said in a purported video shared by Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Twitter.

The development came as a video surfaced purportedly showing Hathras district magistrate Praveen Kumar Laxkar meeting the family at their home, where he allegedly asked the womans father to reconsider if he wants to stick with the statement or change it.

"You should not destroy your credibility. About the media, I must tell you, half of them have left today the other half would leave by tomorrow morning... two or four more days maybe. Only we are standing by your side, alright. Now, it is up to you whether you want to change your statement repeatedly or not..., Laxkar tells the victim's father according to the video on social media.

A woman member of the family claimed they were being pressured by the district magistrate and feared these people now won't let us live here, according to another purported video.

Firstpost has not independently verified the authenticity of the videos.

"They have made random videos of mother's statements. Soon after the incident, the situation was such that we were speaking anything that came to our minds... But now they (administration) won't let us live here anymore. This DM is a trickster, he is pressuring us. Says we are not reliable, we are changing our statement. They asked our father and told him that we lose credibility if we change the statement, we (administrators) will be sent to some other place, the sobbing woman alleged, as per PTI.

Dalit woman gang-raped in Balrampur, say reports

On Thursday, another gangrape came to light with reports saying that a 22-year-old Dalit woman died two days ago after being raped allegedly by two men in UP's Balrampur district.

Balrampur superintendent of police Dev Ranjan Verma, quoting the victim's family, said the woman, who worked with a private firm, returned home in a serious condition on Tuesday.

The girl looked dazed and had an intravascular cannula, medically known as Vigo and used for administering injection or other fluids in the body, inserted in her hands.

She was rushed to a nearby hospital, but died on the way, said the SP. When the matter was reported to the police from the hospital, the parents alleged that their daughter was gang-raped, SP Verma said.

Caste discrimination, a daily reality

As per another article in The Wire, in the Uttar Pradesh village where the 14 September gangrape occurred caste discrimination is an everyday reality.

As per the piece, of the several hundred households in the village, only four families are Dalit. There are around fifteen Brahmin households and around a hundred Thakur households.

A couple, who live in the house adjacent to victims told The Wire, that the [Thakurs] in the village dont shy away from violence. The couple narrated how nearly 30 Thakurs assembled to beat their child after he accidentally touched a packet of jaggery being carried by a child from the Thakur caste.

The child was unharmed because his grandmother offered double the amount to buy fresh jaggery.

FIR against Rahul, Opposition slams UP government

The police in Uttar Pradesh's Gautam Buddh Nagar on Thursday said it has lodged an FIR against Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and around 200 other party workers under The Epidemic Diseases Act for not maintaining social distancing and not wearing face masks.

The FIR was lodged under Indian Penal Code sections 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant), 269 (unlawfully or negligently spreading infection of any disease dangerous to life), 270 (malignant act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life) and under section 3 of the Epidemic Diseases Act, the police said.

Rahul and Priyanka were arrested after they were stopped from marching towards Hathras, with Rahul falling down in in a melee after police tried to stop him and his supporters from proceeding on the Yamuna Expressway. The Gandhis were then taken away in a police jeep, detained and later released.

According to reports, Rahul questioned the senior UP cops as to under which law was he being stopped by them, as he wanted to walk alone towards Hathras to meet the rape victim's family.

"Can you tell me under which law can you stop me from marching towards Hathras?" he asked.

"I want to go alone to Hathras and on what basis can you arrest me?" he asked, to which the cops told him that he had violated Section 188 of the IPC of disobeying the orders promulgated by the government during the pandemic.

Congress leader Randeep Surjrewala put out a video along with a tweet showing Rahul allegedly being roughed up as he marched forward on the Yamuna Expressway. Pictures of him falling down in the melee were also shared by the Congress.

"Lala Lajpat Rai had said that every blow of a stick on my body would prove to be the last nail in the coffin of the British Raj. "The sticks on Rahul ji and Priyanka ji's convoy will also prove to be the last nail in the coffin of the Yogi government," Surjewala said in a tweet in Hindi.

Congress leader P Chidambaram also alleged that none of the country's laws seemed to apply to the police. "UP police is a law into itself. None of the laws of the country seem to apply to it," he alleged. "What is wrong if the leaders of a political party protest against a gruesome crime and wish to visit the victim's family," he asked on Twitter.

Chidambaram said the two leaders were not violent, they did not carry arms and they were lodging a peaceful protest.

"Why should the police stop them from protesting peacefully? Why should the UP police arrest the two leaders and take them away?"

"I hope the court where the leaders will be produced will release them," he said.

The Congress' Odisha unit on Thursday lashed out at the police in Adityanath-ruled Uttar Pradesh for its "undemocratic and shameful".

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, terming the Hathras gangrape as "barbaric and shameful", said the "forceful cremation" of the victim has exposed those who use lofty promise and slogans to seek votes.

"Have no words to condemn the barbaric and shameful incident at Hathras involving a young Dalit girl. My deepest condolences to the family. More shameful is the forceful cremation without the family's presence or consent, exposing those who use slogans and lofty promises for votes," Banerjee said on Twitter.

Raising questions on the law and order situation in Uttar Pradesh, BSP chief Mayawati demanded that the leadership should be changed or Presidents Rule be imposed in the state.

"In the wake of the law and order situation in the state and the flood of crimes against women, the Central Government should replace Yogi Adityanath with some 'kaabil (capable) person and if this is not possible, President's Rule should be imposed in the state," Mayawati said.

"I want to say to Adityanath that you are born from the womb of a woman. You should consider the sisters and daughters of others as your sister and daughter. If you are unable to protect them, you should resign, she asserted.

With inputs from PTI
The recently launched CNBC show, The News With Shepard Smith doesnt just return the high-profile veteran of the Fox News Channel to the air. It also brings a veteran of local news -- including Portlands KGW-TV -- to a national broadcast.

Sally Ramirez, who spent more than 17 years as executive news producer and assistant news director at KGW before leaving in 2016 to become executive news director at KHOU-TV in Houston, is an executive producer of The News With Shepard Smith.

When it was announced a few months back that Ramirez and her husband, Russ Lewis -- who also worked at KGW as a news anchor and was an anchor at KHOU -- were leaving Houston, it appeared that the couple were headed back to Oregon. In an email this summer, Lewis wrote that he and Ramirez always knew wed come back to Oregon, adding that the couples youngest daughter recently graduated from high school, and this fall, both of our girls will be college students in Oregon. We already have a Duck, and soon, well have a Beaver, too.

Lewis wrote that the couple were coming back to the home they built in West Linn, where Lewis planned on taking a more active role in the familys property development business. But, in what turned out to be an accurate prediction, Lewis wrote that while he was retiring from TV news, Ramirez definitely wasnt.

As anyone whos worked with Sally can tell you, she has journalism in her blood," Lewis wrote. "She will stay in the news business. Sally gets lots of unsolicited calls and opportunities. Once the right fit comes along, shell be ready to conquer the next challenge.

In a recent email, Ramirez answered questions about why she decided to join The News With Shepard Smith, the vision for the show, and what shes learned about what viewers want from TV news.

Q: You and your husband, Russ Lewis, both recently left your positions in KHOU, in Houston. In an email to me, Lewis said that you both always knew wed come back to Oregon. How did you come to take the job of executive producer of The News with Shepard Smith, which will be broadcast from New Jersey? Will you be able to juggle working on the East Coast and having family in Oregon? What was it about this opportunity that made it exciting?

Ramirez: When we told KHOU our plans to leave Houston several months ago, I intended to take some time to figure out what I wanted to do next. Russ already knew he was joining his dad in the property development business back in Oregon, but I wasnt sure about my next career move. When CNBC called and told me it was launching a cable newscast with straight facts and no slant, I was intrigued. When they told me Shepard Smith would be anchoring it, I was sold! I was very fortunate to spend nearly 18 years at one TV station (KGW). Thats rare in the news business and it worked well for our young family. Now, both of our daughters are adults and off to college. That allows us a lot of flexibility. Russ will work in Oregon but also spend lots of time here on the East Coast. Oregon has a very special place in my heart. That will never change.

Q: What do you hope to do with The News with Shepard Smith? How will the show be different from other options for news currently available on broadcast and cable TV?

Ramirez: Our only agenda in this show is to report the truth. We base our stories on facts. And we tell those stories through those who are impacted. We want to reflect America.

Q: What lessons have you learned from your years working at KGW in Portland, Houston, and in other local TV markets, that youll take with you to this national program?

Ramirez: Ive worked in eight cities across the country. The scenery is different. The weather is different but at the core, people are the same. We all care about the same things: The health and safety of loved ones, economic security - providing for our family, and we all want to celebrate the good in our communities.

Q: The show is described as offering deep, non-partisan coverage and perspective on the days most important stories. What are some examples of how The News with Shepard Smith might approach a story?

Ramirez: First, I can tell you what you wont see. No pundits. No arguing. No one telling you what to think. This show will approach the news stories of the day with facts. The truth. If you spend an hour with Shepard, youll get your news with context and clarity.

Q: Donald Trump has made the press a consistent target. He refers to stories that report facts he doesnt like as fake news. How do you feel about Trump calling the press the enemy of the people? Has Trump made members of the public feel they can no longer trust the press? If so, what is the impact of that on our culture, and our country?

Ramirez: Journalism is not for the faint of heart. With a major breaking news story happening every day, our job as journalists has never been more important. At The News with Shepard Smith our viewers can expect us to deliver the facts each and every night and we take that responsibility very seriously.

Q: What role do you hope The News with Shepard Smith will play in bringing people news and information? What will make the show a valuable addition, especially at a time when people get so much of what passes for news from social media?

Ramirez: We know a lot of Americans want a newscast like this. We NEED a newscast like this. This is the right time, and we have the right person. Shepard Smith is a respected, veteran journalist and the perfect voice to cut through all the noise.

The News With Shepard Smith airs weekdays at 4 p.m. PT (7 p.m. ET) on CNBC.

More of our coverage:

Former Fox News anchor Shepard Smith says his new CNBC show will be fact-based: Its not my job to express my opinion'

Subscribe to our What to Watch newsletter. Email:



-- Kristi Turnquist

kturnquist@oregonian.com 503-221-8227 @Kristiturnquist
General view of the closed H&M store, at Avenue des Champs Elysees, in the 8th quarter of Paris, as the city imposes emergency measures to combat the Coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak, on March 16, 2020 in Paris, France.

Sweden's H&M, the world's second-biggest fashion retailer, beat quarterly profit forecasts as it recovered more quickly than expected from a coronavirus-induced slump, in a positive sign for the industry.

Profit before tax for June-August, the company's third quarter, came in around 2 billion Swedish crowns (178.15 million pounds).

That was well below 5 billion crowns a year earlier, but much higher than analysts' mean forecast of 191 million crowns, according to Refinitiv's SmartEstimate model, which is weighted towards more recent estimates and higher-ranked analysts.

"H&M group's recovery is better than expected," the company said in a statement on Tuesday. "More full-price sales combined with strong cost control enabled the company to already turn to profit in the third quarter."

Sales fell 19% to 50.9 billion crowns, against expectations for an 18% drop. In local currencies, the fall was 16%.

"Very good news and well above consensus," said Societe Generale analyst Anne Critchlow of the third-quarter profits.

She has a 'hold' rating on the shares, which were up 11% in early trade, reducing their year-to-date decline to 16%.

Shortly after company veteran Helena Helmersson replaced the grandson of H&M's founder as CEO in January, the pandemic slammed H&M, pushing it into a deep loss in the March-May quarter as sales halved.

The company, which will publish its full quarterly report on Oct. 1, has been cutting staff, opening fewer new stores than planned and permanently closing others to cut costs.

"After its Q2 results, management warned that increased markdowns would hamper its earnings by around 2-3%-points, but this now appears to have reversed to a slight positive effect," analysts at Carnegie said in a note.

Analysts have been warning it will take time for fashion retailers' sales to recover to pre-pandemic levels, and recent signs of second waves of COVID-19 infections in some countries have added to the uncertainty.

RBC analyst Richard Chamberlain, with a 'sector perform' rating on H&M, said H&M's profit improvement augured well.

"We think most of this can be sustained going forward and expect consensus profit before tax upgrades for 2021-22 in the range of 5-10% following today. We also think this is a positive read for the apparel sector in general, eg, (Primark owner) ABF, Inditex and Next," he said.

H&M's biggest rival, Zara owner Inditex will report May-July results on Wednesday. Britain's Next and John Lewis report on Thursday.
Photo credit: Samsung

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1. How To Enter : Find the Horseshoe Sweepstakes November 2020 (the Sweepstakes): Beginning October 1, 2020 at 12:01 AM (ET) through November 4, 2020 at 11:59 PM (ET) (the Entry Period), go to sweepstakes.countryliving.comon a computer or wireless device and complete the entry form pursuant to the on-screen instructions. Optional: Entry may include the page number where the hidden horseshoe appears in the November 2020 issue of Country Living, available via subscription as early as October 1, 2020, and at newsstands approximately October 6, 2020 to November 9, 2020, while supplies last (exact dates may vary depending on newsstand). Important Notice: You may be charged for visiting the mobile website in accordance with the terms of your service agreement with your carrier. Please consult your wireless service provider regarding your pricing plan. You must use a Smartphone device to participate via your mobile phone. Not all mobile phone providers carry the necessary service to participate. Check your phone capabilities for specific Internet instructions. If your data usage exceeds what is allotted by your data plan, you could be subject to additional fees by your carrier. Please contact your mobile service provider with any questions regarding your bill. Winner Selection : Winner (individually and collectively, the Winner) will be selected on or about November 5, 2020, in a random drawing from among all eligible entries received. In the event the Sponsor does not receive any eligible entries, the Sponsor has the right to cancel the Sweepstakes. Drawing will be conducted by Country Living staff whose decisions are final. Odds of winning will depend upon the total number of eligible entries received. Prizes & Approximate Retail Value :One (1) Winner will receive one (1) 50-inch Frame TV from Samsung, plus one (1) bevel of winners choice. Total ARV: $1,450.00. Any difference between the stated ARV and the actual value of the prize will not be awarded in any form.

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London, Oct 1 : UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson's father was caught shopping without a mask, after the incumbent government doubled fines for not donning one in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, it was reported on Thursday.

Stanley Johnson was photographed on Tuesday at a newspaper shop, without a face covering, the Metro newspaper reported.

Face coverings were made compulsory in shops and public transport since July 24. Last week fines for first time offenders who fail to wear a face covering increased to 200 pounds as part of a series of curbs imposed in order to prevent a second lockdown.

Following the revelation, Stanley Johnson told the Mirror newspaper thathe may not be "100 per cent up to speed" with current rules as he had just returned to England after three weeks abroad.

"I'm extremely sorry for the slip up and I would urge absolutely everybody to do everything they can to make sure they do follow the rules about masks and social distancing "The fact this was my first day back in the UK after three weeks abroad is, I am sure, no excuse for not knowing the rules," he was quoted as saying.

On Wednesday, the Prime Minister again urged the public to follow the incumbent guidelines and reiterated warnings that tougher restrictions could be introduced if current measures did not help curb the spread of the virus.

The Metro newspaper report said that this wasn't the first time the Prime Minister's father has made headlines.

In July he defended his decision to travel to Greece in an apparent breach of Foreign Office guidance to avoid non-essential travel.

In April, he admitted breaking lockdown rules when he went out to buy a newspaper after his grandchild was born.

He had hinted in March that he would ignore the government's advice and visit a pub.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Toppers Pizza has been serving beloved cheesy offerings, high-quality pizza, Topperstix and wings with a signature Wisconsin flair for over 25 years. Now, after a successful test of its new vegan menu in the Madison market, the brand is rolling out the menu at its 60-plus locations nationwide starting on Monday, October 5.

Weve been testing these recipes and toppings in our Madison market, and the response from the community has been tremendous, said Toppers Pizza Director of National Marketing & Menu Innovation, Mac Malchow. We couldnt be happier with the results weve seen and are looking forward to offering these options to the vegan community, which is largely underserved in the space.

The menu, curated by Melanie Manuel, vegan chef and owner of all-vegan Milwaukee restaurant Celesta, will introduce four new toppings  dairy-free mozzarella, plant-based crispy chicken, dairy-free ranch and Korean BBQ sauce (also available in individual Dippin Cups).

Each of the new ingredients will be featured in three new, all-vegan house pizza offerings: the Vegan Buffalo Chicken-less Topper with mild buffalo sauce, smothered in dairy-free mozzarella cheese, topped with plant-based crispy chicken and green onions and drizzled with dairy-free ranch; the Vegan Korean BBQ Chicken-less Topper with Korean BBQ sauce, smothered in dairy-free mozzarella cheese, topped with plant-based crispy chicken, onions and green peppers; and the Vegan Tuscano Topper with homemade pizza sauce, dairy-free mozzarella cheese, topped with garlic-roasted tomatoes, green olives and tasty spinach.

Our vegan customers have been lacking options in the pizza delivery and pickup segment of the restaurant industry, and were excited to be able to offer delicious new pizzas and toppings for them to enjoy, said Malchow. Were in the process of innovating flavors for our core offerings of pizzas and Topperstix and have a lot of new, exciting items in the pipeline.

Manuel, a plant-conscious chef who has been a vegetarian herself since the age of 16, says shes thrilled to have been able to work with Toppers to showcase vegan food as a regular part of the classic menu.

Its been a fantastic experience to partner with a leading brand with fans across the country to normalize vegan offerings, said Manuel. Were looking forward to being able to provide a platform for vegan food through a predominantly cheese-based pizza brand.

The vegan menu offerings will be available at all Toppers locations starting on Monday, October 5.

ABOUT TOPPERS PIZZA

Capitalizing on the booming better pizza category and fueled by the passion of Founder & President Scott Gittrich and a team of experienced industry veterans, Toppers Pizza has formulated the perfect recipe to appeal to both pizza enthusiasts and savvy investors. Headquartered in Wisconsin, Toppers is committed to quality and consistency throughout the system, and plans to maintain corporate ownership of 25 percent of all locations while the brand expands to continuously improve on best practices and product development. Toppers fanatics love the brands fresh, handmade and customizable pizza baked in about 360 seconds and delivered extremely fast, with more than a million combinations of fresh, high quality toppings, and the brands signature line of flavored Topperstix and baked Buffalo wings. In 2018, Entrepreneur Magazine ranked Toppers as one of the Top 200 Food-Based Franchises. For more information on Toppers Pizza, visit https://www.toppers.com/.
In an attempt to demonstrate his ties with Pakistani military just days after hitting out at its leadership, ousted former prime minister Nawaz Sharif has claimed that his government had reverse-engineered a US cruise missile to develop the countrys own missile programme.

Nawaz Sharifs comments from London, where he is reportedly undergoing treatment, came as the Imran Khan government is pushing for his deportation. The move came just days after an opposition alliance was formed against the government.

Addressing the Pakistan Democratic Movements first major meeting via video link late last month, Sharif had severely criticised the military as a state above the state.

But while talking to media in London later, Sharif said he had supported the countrys armed forces a lot.

He went on to claim that his government reverse-engineered a missile launched against Afghanistan by the US in strikes ordered against al Qaeda bases in Afghanistan in 1998.

One of these missiles landed undamaged in Balochistan and we used back-engineering (sic) to develop our own missile programme, Sharif said.

It was during my tenure as PM that Pakistan became a nuclear power, developed the JF-17 aircraft along with China and I can also claim that half of the missiles that Pakistan has developed were done with my support.

The former PM said he had all love and respect for both military officers and soldiers. There are very few people in the armed forces who I have a problem with, he said.

Talking about the opposition alliance, Sharif said it is a matter of time that the present government will go. If the country stands up, change will come in a few months, he said.

He also took the opportunity to attack Khan whom he called selected...incompetent...mad.

He said Khan did not know how to govern and his government was failing.

Nawaz Sharif said that he will hold to account those people who brought Imran Khan to power.
Speaker Nancy Pelosi has indicated that she had trouble sleeping after Tuesday nights debate between Donald Trump and Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden.

As Speaker, people say to me, What keeps you up at night? she said at a press conference on Thursday at the Capitol.

"The night of the debate, you saw what keeps me up at night," she said.

Americans saw authenticity from both candidates on the debate stage on Tuesday, Ms Pelosi said.

On the one hand, Mr Trump could barely let Mr Biden or even moderator Chris Wallace speak without interrupting them, and he was unwilling to directly denounce white supremacists.

He was "authentically a bully," Ms Pelosi said.

On the other hand, Democratic nominee Joe Biden showed poise and decency, she said.

The president has "no respect for the office that he holds," Ms Pelosi said.

She suggested jokingly that the anxiety the president has caused her has made her more grating around other House Democrats.

My colleagues don't like it when I don't get enough sleep, she joked.

Ms Pelosi had been publicly urging Mr Biden for weeks not to debate the president, saying it was not worth his time to "legitimise" Mr Trump's words by appearing with him on-stage.

"Why bother? He doesn't tell the truth," she said last week.

The speaker has not directly spoken with Mr Trump herself in more than 11 months, relying instead on conversing and negotiating with intermediaries such as Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin.

The two most powerful leaders of their respective political parties last spoke at a 16 October 2019 meeting at the White House, CNN reported, where Mr Trump called Ms Pelosi a "third-grade politician."

The speaker fired back that all roads with [Trump] lead to Putin, referring to the Russian President Vladimir Putin, before abruptly gathering her things and leaving the meeting.

Since then, Ms Pelosi's House Democratic caucus has impeached Mr Trump for abusing his power in foreign policy with Ukraine for political gain; the two leaders have snubbed each other at the president's State of the Union address in February, with the speaker ripping up her copy of his speech; and the coronavirus pandemic has killed more than 200,000 Americans and sent the US economy into a tailspin, upending the regular presidential election cycle in the process.
If this marked the first time in recent years that China has sought to unambiguously redefine the LAC in accord with its 1959 claim line, a demand that India has consistently rejected, Chinese foreign ministry upped the ante further on Tuesday when it called into question Indias sovereignty over Ladakh.

We were getting used to the uneasy calm, a sort of edgy interlude that occurs between high-tension conflicts as Indian and Chinese troops, along with all their arms and armaments, breathe down on each others necks in a tense deadlock on the Himalayan terrain. The onset of a brutal winter promised some respite and a fledgeling hope that a diplomatic solution could still be hammered out. Chinas latest needling of India, however, shows that it is ready to raise the stakes even more.

The calm that prevails for now looks ominous. The IAF chief recently called it a no war, no peace situation and reiterated that defence forces are prepared for any eventuality. We have seen recent reports that troops on the ground have been given clear instructions to open fire if the PLA tries to pull any stunt.

As far as deployments go, India has reportedly rolled out 500km-range Brahmos missiles or the long-range indigenous subsonic missile Nirbhay to neutralise the threat of Chinese SAM (surface-to-air missile) deployment in Tibet. Video clips of Indian Armys tank formations  T-90 and BMP vehicles  in Chumar-Demchock have also been leaked to the press.

The massive buildup of troops and the escalatory spiral leading to a deadly clash in Galwan has been described by S Jaishankar, Indias external affairs minister, as the most serious situation since 1962. Reports have emerged that the PLA had raised its combat readiness to the second-highest level following a serious firing incident on the northern bank of Pangong Tso just ahead of Jaishankar-Wang Yi meeting in Moscow.

It is by now clear that the decades-old architecture of patrolling protocols, CBMs and multi-layered talks and core principles to maintain peace and tranquillity at the border have collapsed and in need of urgent replacement in keeping with the revised geopolitical realities.

However, it is equally true that both nations have so far shown an unwillingness to let the escalatory spiral descend into a full-blown military conflict. The consultative mechanism is broken but both India and China have still persisted with it, though their motivations vary. For Beijing, a kinetic action is unnecessary. It would rather use the time provided by talks to consolidate its hold on the territory it occupies post April-May.

As this columnist pointed out previously, a protracted stalemate favours China because it is the aggressor and has managed to change the status quo with its stealth encroachments. Conversely, Indias options are either to accept Chinas fait accompli or launch a military offensive to evict the PLA from the territory that India considers as own.

However, since India has on more than one occasion reiterated that a solution to India-China border row has to be found in the domain of diplomacy, it has given rise to a belief that both countries will muddle through the crisis and eventually arrive at a solution even if it takes time, as former foreign national security advisor Shivshankar Menon said at a recent webinar.

So, if the precarious, fragile calm has held so far, it is largely due to a combination of Chinas lack of motivation for kinetic action at this stage and Indias pacifist stance. It seemed that the border crisis would persist in the foreseeable future but would deescalate from a flashpoint to a battle of attrition. In this context, Chinas recent statements in reference to its fictitious 1959 claim line and dismissal of Indias sovereignty over Ladakh are provocative, unsettling and make for disturbing conclusions.

In a statement to Hindustan Times newspaper, Chinese foreign ministry defined its perception of the LAC as proposed by former Chinese premier Zhou Enlai to Jawaharlal Nehru in 1959.

Firstly, China-India border LAC is very clear, that is the LAC on November 7, 1959. China announced it in the 1950s, and the international community including India are also clear about it, Beijing reportedly told the newspaper. China blamed Indian troops for illegally crossing the border (and) unilaterally expanding the scope of actual control and tied down disengagement to Indias withdrawal of all illegal cross-border personnel and equipment, according to the report.

If this marked the first time in recent years that China has sought to unambiguously redefine the LAC in accord with its 1959 claim line, a demand that India has consistently rejected, Chinese foreign ministry upped the ante further on Tuesday when it called into question Indias sovereignty over Ladakh.

At a press conference, spokesperson Wang Wenbin said: China doesn't recognize the so-called Ladakh Union Territory illegally set up by India and opposes infrastructure building aimed at military contention in disputed border areas. Asked about Chinas building of massive infrastructure along the LAC, Wang predictably claimed that Chinese border troops have long been on the Chinese side of the LAC and strictly complying with bilateral agreements with India.

Chinas provocative statements have elicited a sharp response from India. In its statement, the Ministry of External Affairs has rejected Chinas unilateral definition of 1959 LAC, reiterating that China is fully aware of Indias position. The statement also pointed to various bilateral agreements signed in 1993, 1996 and 2005, where both India and China have committed to clarification and confirmation of the LAC to reach a common understanding of the alignment and the two sides had engaged in an exercise to clarify and confirm the LAC up to 2003, but this process could not proceed further as the Chinese side did not show a willingness to pursue it. Therefore, stated the MEA, the insistence now of the Chinese side that there is only one LAC is contrary to the solemn commitments made by China in these agreements.

Indias response is on predictable lines, but it leaves open a few unanswered issued raised by Chinas latest provocation. Why is China doing this? What to make of the timing, tone and tenor of Chinese statements? A few points may be made.

1. Putting pressure on India ahead of talks

Notably, Chinese claims were made just ahead of the 19th meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on border affairs and the sixth virtual conference since the crisis unfolded in April-May. Nobody seriously expected a breakthrough when Naveen Srivastava of the external affairs ministry and his counterpart Hong Liang met to discuss how to implement the five-point consensus reached in Moscow (on September 10) but Chinese pressure tactics would have precluded any possibility of achieving even notional progress.

How does that help China? As has been noted, it is in Chinas interest to maintain the stalemate at the border and resist a diplomatic resolution and buy time for its troops to further reinforce their new facts on ground. This modus operandi has served China well in various theatres from the Himalayas to the South China Sea. There is no logical reason why Beijing would abandon this profitable tactic.

It isnt surprising to note, therefore, that the statement released by MEA post the WMCC meeting indicated the lack of even a hint of progress. Both sides had frank and detailed discussions on the developments since the last meeting of the WMCC on 20 August. They agreed that agreement between the two Foreign Ministers should be sincerely implemented. They stressed on strengthening communication, especially between the ground commanders and agreed to continue to maintain close consultations at the diplomatic and military level. The template feels repetitive and pointless.

2. A hardening of Chinese stance

Chinese motivations are hard to read and decision-making process even harder but a general toughening of stance vis-a-vis India on the unresolved border issue has been evident for some time. Even if we disregard the consistently provocative statements in Global Times, the nature of a US-India security alliance and the challenges that it poses for China has got renewed attention since the Donald Trump administration put India at the front and centre of its Indo-Pacific policy.

Leave aside pervasive trolling from CCPs attack dog newspaper that relies on unhinged rhetoric for eyeballs, serious Chinese scholars are debating whether India has already accepted a de facto alliance with the US and the increasing consensus seems to be that the benefits that the US has offered in material and diplomatic terms have already emboldened New Delhi to pursue risky policies vis-a-vis Pakistan in addition to a more assertive negotiating posture towards China, as Yun Sun of Stimson Center pointed out in her piece titled Chinas Strategic Assessment Of India in War on The Rocks.

More recently, such a trend has been noticed and commented upon in Indian strategic circles. A report in The Hindu points out that Chinese scholars are calling for a hardline reset of ties with India based on an assumption that New Delhi is little more than a US lackey.

Scholar Liu Zongyi of Renmin University in Beijing is quoted as saying, India and the US have formed a de facto military alliance. Under the current situation, we must re-assess our understanding of the US-India alliance and reset our India strategy, which according to Liu should be a more toughened posture to discourage what he calls Indias opportunistic behavior and offensive-defensive policy on the border. The fact that this assessment was published in a mainstream media outlet and Liu had visited the border areas for a survey points to the fact that this may have been vetted by the authorities, notes the report.

Interestingly, a few days ahead of the Chinese foreign ministry statement that referred to the 1959 LAC, Yun Sun of Stimson Center (mentioned above) in an interview to The Print had predicted that China in its redrawing of the LAC is aiming for the 1959 claim line. There are different signals from Beijing. We can see that China is probably aiming for their LAC back in 1959 What happened between 1959 and 1962 according to Chinese perception was an Indian forward policy that advanced towards the Chinese territory, which eventually led to the 1962 war.

Taken together, these point to a systemic change in Chinas approach towards India based on a reassessment post the 2017 Doklam standoff that finds expression in greater aggression and hardening of stance on the border issue. A normal state would have fallen back on talks to thrash out the differences, but China isnt a normal state. Led by a paranoid Chinese Communist Party that needs a perpetual enemy to sustain its control Chinas rise is underpinned by a siege mentality that leads to a revanchist posture.

3. Collusion with Pakistan

The close conjunction between Pakistans declaration of tighter administrative control over the Gilgit-Baltistan region  that India claims as its sovereign territory  and Chinas announcement that it doesn't recognize the so-called Ladakh Union Territory illegally set up by India is not coincidental. In its new political map  an example of cartographic fantasy  Pakistan had left the China frontier undefined, suggesting Chinas invisible influence.

More recently, Pakistans move to elevate the disputed territorys status to a full-fledged province gives covering fire to Chinas cartographic revanchism in Ladakh and also insulates Chinas significant investments in the region.

As professor Harsh V Pant of Kings College, London, was quoted as saying in South China Morning Post, by trying to legalise its stranglehold over Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan is trying to not only remove the roadblocks to Chinese investors in CPEC, but also giving Beijing greater access. It also made the two-front war scenario very realistic.

The synchronized steps between Pakistan and China on the Himalayan frontiers should certainly worry India, and Beijings provocative statement on Ladakh should be seen in this context.

4. Indias upgradation of border infrastructure

This has long been Beijings pet peeve, and with Narendra Modi governments stress on the upgradation of border infrastructure to match Chinas road-and-bridge network along the LAC, Chinese irritation seems to have hardened into more aggressive behaviour. Wang Wenbin made a clear reference to this during Tuesdays press conference and in their assessments, both Yun Sun and Liu Zongyi have referred to Indias development of infrastructure at an accelerated pace since 2014.

In her piece Chinas Strategic Assessment of Ladakh Clash, Yun writes: For the Chinese, the infrastructure arms race in the border region has enabled the repeated incursions and changes to the status quo, and therefore needs to be stopped. Otherwise, all the things China fought for in the 1962 war would have been in vain.

This points to a causal relationship between Indias building of roads and Chinas attempt to lock in the comparative advantage by encroaching on Indian territory.

5. 1959 claim line as an excuse to justify encroachment

This is by far the most compelling explanation of Chinas recent rhetorical flourish. Two points are worth noting upfront. One, Chinas 1959 claims have always been wishy-washy to the extent that these have never been seriously considered during bilateral agreements. Two, China has been well aware of Indias clear and consistent objection to this claim.

Former NSA Menon, who played a pivotal role in the 1993 border agreement, writes in his book Choices, In both 1959 and 1962 India had rejected the concept of a Line of Actual Control, arguing that the Chinese concept was a disconnected series of points on a map that could be joined up in many ways; the lines should omit gains from aggression in 1962 and therefore should be based on actual position on September 8, 1962, before the Chinese attack.

Ashok Kantha, former Indias ambassador to China who was involved in negotiations for the 1996 Agreement on CBMs in the military field described the 1959 LAC as a notional and fictional line with no basis in facts in a Hindustan Times report. They have tried this in the past, and this notional LAC has been rejected by India, including during the 1993 negotiations, Kantha is quoted, as saying.

More than five months into the crisis, if China is suddenly insisting on a fictional claim line that has never been agreed upon by the other side in border agreements, it points to a conclusion that China needs to justify PLAs recent occupation of Indian territory and it has no intention of scaling back from the areas that Chinese troops trespass upon. Beijings maximalism points to an inflexible attitude in border negotiations and suggests that the precarious road to a diplomatic solution became harder still.
He says further international support for Ukraine to counter the aggressor is important.

Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Colonel-General Ruslan Khomchak does not rule out that fighting in Donbas may resume.

Khomchak announced this at a meeting of army chiefs of the Visegrad Group and Ukraine, which took place in Warsaw (Poland), the media relations office of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said.

Read alsoUkraine's army chief on importance of NATO in Ukrainian drills: "Deterrent to enemy"

He briefed the partners on the security situation in Donbas, Russia's ongoing aggression, and the situation along the contact line within the framework of the Joint Forces operation.

"There is a full and comprehensive ceasefire along the contact line in Donbas. Its introduction made it possible to significantly reduce the enemy's fire activity, but there is still the likelihood that local hostilities may resume," Khomchak said.

He also stressed the importance of further international support for Ukraine to counter the aggressor and its interaction with NATO and the EU in this context.

Donbas ceasefire: Background
India had just ordered six deadly hunter drones that are proven to be lethal, but do not come with a hefty price tag. Each service will get two as the first set and will be delivered where they are needed.

The total cost of the arms order is about 2.32 billion. Military units over the next few years will have them. Everyone will get an equivalent number of drones.

New Delhi has no confidence that Beijing will stick to any agreement, so the stakes are higher by getting all the arms needed for any impending conflict. The Himalayan border region is a powder keg that is waiting to get lit. China is dogging the issue, and India is right to assume defensive posture, reported Express UK.

According to analysts, the MQ-9B drone can loiter for 40-hours as high as 40,000-feet. To lie in wait for targets of opportunity in any battle zone, this drone may have specs kept from the public.

This is an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that is an excellent weapons platform, carrying ground attack missiles and laser-guided bombs up to 2.5 tons. It's the weapon of choice when the U.S. has achieved aerial superiority. They are mostly used to harass the low-tech armies in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Africa.

The assassination of the top Iranian commander Major General Qassem Soleimani in Baghdad was done by an MQ-9 Reaper last January. Such an operation proved that drones are expendable without the loss of human life.

Recently, the Reapers were sent the South China Sea for maritime duty as extra equipment of the U.S. Fleet. The system is far superior to other competing programmable drones used in other forces. China has an equivalent drone but is not as sophisticated.

Also read: Russia and India Make a Deal to Build the MiG-35 in India and Transfer Technology

Unmanned Heron drones will be upgraded by Israel to have the existing equipment tuned up with better communication links.

The Satellite link is a problem because of a time gap which need two Heron drones in tandem flying to account for the time gap in the information sent to home-base. Gaps in long-range surveillance and recon need to be fixed.

Getting an upgrade will mean the drone will link up in faster time for the home-base. Improves contact for long-range recon and keeping the link up at all times in operation.

A highway is under construction in the Ladakh region, where China and India have a big-time scuffle. It is one of the most intension logger heading in decades between them. Apparently, China has been busy providing access to the border zone with all the necessary infrastructure which India lacks. Helipads for their helicopters are also provided. When the highway is completed the Indian Army will get better access.

The Himalayas is the site where a skirmish happened between them, and it became a bloody hand-to-hand clash in June. Allegedly there were 20 Indian troopers but Chinese casualties are top secret.

In 1962 both nations were in a border clash over the Actual Control (LAC) which is getting worse now. India is not backing down on the heating up border issue and matching China's actions.

Related article: India versus China Air Superiority: Chinese Stealth Jets Can Beat India's Newest Fighter Jets

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New York florist Lewis Miller, famed for his wild Flower Flash installationsliving works of art that blossom over manhole covers, construction sites, phone booths, and beloved sculptureswill soon festoon the city in bushels of pink petals.

The lush designs will incorporate 20 shades of pink florals in honor of the 20th anniversary of Ralph Laurens Pink Pony Fund, which works to ensure early and equal access to quality cancer treatments.

Gentl & Hyers

Weve been doing these flashes throughout the pandemic in New York to honor health care workers, so this seemed like a natural collaboration, says Lewis. This classic Americana brand that I love and these romantic, luscious flower arrangements in unexpected placesits going to be really beautiful.

His first installation for the partnership will pop up October 13, in front of the Memorial Sloan Kettering Ralph Lauren Center (RLC) in Harlem. Health care workers inside the RLC will also receive a sweet surprise via bud-vase bouquetsa thank-you for their efforts to provide accessible, compassionate, and culturally sensitive cancer care. Its all part of the Pink Ponys initiatives effort to spark conversations about the disease, as well as infuse hope in the city after a distressing year.

Irini Arakas Greenbaum

The whole idea of the flower flash is to give back, to give joy, explains Lewis, who has created eye-popping arrangements for New Yorks most revered cultural institutions (including MoMA, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the New York Public Library, and the Whitney) as well as a whos who of fashion and media brands (Vogue, HBO, and Netflix). We live in a crazy world and were a little bit starved for joyif we can have a feel-good moment, thats really important right now.

On October 23, his second installation will bloom outside Macys Herald Square. And in an engaging twist, the art is meant to be touched. Shoppers will be encouraged to pluck flowers to take home, part of an effort to spread love (and the #pinkpony hashtag) around the city.

Story continues

Its a gift to New Yorktake a picture or take a blossom, Lewis says, emphasizing that the temporary nature of his flashes is what makes them so powerful: You go from this larger-than-life still life to a scattering of leaves on the groundthats the life it was meant to live. Theres a strange beauty in the disarray as well.

Irini Arakas Greenbaum

The florist estimates hell use between 6,000 and 7,000 stems in the fanciful creations, including plenty of pink roses and peonies. Those varietals also happen to be two of the starring notes in Ralph Laurens new Romance Pink Pony Edition fragrance. All profits from the scent, which served as an inspiration for Lewiss floral designs, will go to the fund.

He notes that thanks to social media, photos of his installations will reach audiences far beyond New York, offering a much-needed reminder of the citys magic. Any attention we can bring our fair metropolis right now is really a good idea, says Lewis. We all need a little bit of a surprise these days, in a positive way. The whole country needs it, the whole world needs it.

Originally Appeared on Architectural Digest
Gary Black, the Georgia commissioner of agriculture, gave an encouraging message to students, educators and business leaders watching the virtual Regional Education and Economic Development (REED) Summit hosted by the University of North Georgia (UNG) on Sept. 23.

"When you get a degree in agriculture, it's not a question of if you get a job. It's a question of which job you get and where you want to live," said Black, the event's keynote speaker. "There are enormous opportunities for those who want to lead and serve in this industry."

According to Georgia Farm Bureau statistics, 1 in 7 Georgians work in agriculture, forestry or related fields. Agribusiness is Georgia's leading industry with more than $75 billion in economic impact every year. Biotechnology, drones, telematics, yield monitoring, and other precision agriculture technologies are rapidly changing how Georgia grows.

Black pointed to beef production as a potential area for growth in the state going forward. He also noted the diversity of skills needed in agribusiness, including information technology and engineering.

Breakout sessions of the summit focused on the poultry industry, life sciences, the effect of education on economic development, STEM and the American workforce, and how educational pathways train students for good jobs.

Bobbi Larson, director of economic development and community relations, said the summit was a uniting force for sharing information about agribusiness with regional organizations.

"Business and education, both K-12 and post-secondary, share a common cause in the preparation of a highly skilled workforce to preserve regional competitiveness and economic opportunity in response to rapid innovation, technological change, and increasing global competition," Larson said. "The REED Summit reinforced the idea that workforce development is a team sport and fostered collaboration between industry and educators at all levels."

Mike Giles, president of the Georgia Poultry Federation, noted that globally, only seven countries produce more broiler chicken than the state of Georgia, which produces 1.4 billion birds and 8 billion pounds of chicken annually.

Dr. Linda Purvis, associate professor of biology, rebuilt the agriculture-poultry science pathway associate degree program at UNG in the past decade. She was excited to participate in the summit and hoped others gained valuable insights.

"The general public hears about agriculture and that it's a big part of Georgia, but they may not realize the diversity of it. They think about farms, but they don't think about the life sciences side of it, such as vaccines and pharmaceuticals," Purvis said. "We have a very diverse agriculture industry in north Georgia that includes wine and poultry. Our educational programs at UNG prepare students for careers in a variety of these sectors."

Tim McDonald, executive vice president of Lanier Technical College, took part in a prerecorded interview included in the summit and attended multiple sessions.

"This year's REED Summit was important because agribusiness is such a large and diverse part of the economy of northeast Georgia," McDonald said.

Sessions were streamed through Zoom and will be available by Oct. 5 on the REED Summit website.

Due to the event being virtual, registration was free for high school and college students, professionals and community members. Northeast Georgia Health System was the presenting sponsor for the summit.

Georgia Power, Rochester & Associates, and Syfan Logistics were executive sponsors for the REED Summit. Blue Ridge Mountain EMC, Habersham EMC, Lanier Federal Credit Union and Windstream Kinetic were supporting sponsors.
Itential to showcase its powerful solutions for network automation at the industry's top virtual events. "Itential is excited to connect with our industry peers as we advance the evolution of network operations and look forward to showcasing how our technology helps organizations simplify and accelerate their journey toward modern, automated networks."

Itential, today unveiled that it will showcase its powerful solutions for network automation at the industrys top virtual events. During October, Itential is sponsoring and participating in the Network Automation Summit at Interop Digital, AnsibleFest, ONUG Fall 2020, and NANOG 80.

Itential simplifies and accelerates network automation and programmability for enterprise and service provider organizations. The companys low-code automation solutions provide flexibility and speed for network teams to manage and produce sophisticated automations across physical, virtual, and hybrid-cloud networks. By taking an API-first approach to automation, the Itential Automation Platform easily integrates with any IT, OSS, Cloud, DevOps, and Network technology for easily designing and building end-to-end network automations.

Todays networks are vital to the businesses that operate them, and organizations must balance the need for dynamic change without abandoning reliability and performance, said Kristen Rachels, vice president of marketing at Itential. Itential is excited to connect with our industry peers as we advance the evolution of network operations and look forward to showcasing how our technology helps organizations simplify and accelerate their journey toward modern, automated networks.

This October, the following events aim to educate and encourage innovative thinking and progress the adoption of network automation initiatives. You can find Itential at:



Network Automation Summit at Interop Digital (Oct 5 - 6)  In partnership with Network to Code and sponsored by Itential, the virtual conference will focus on strengthening organizations automation strategies. Attendees will hear from engineers and leaders of network automation deployments, their successes, and the resulting benefits. Meet with Itentials executives and solution engineers to learn more about how Itential products are helping companies propel their network automation journey.

AnsibleFest (Oct 13-14) - This all online, two-day event, will be sponsored by Itential and features a variety of different topics to learn from Ansible users around the world. Stop by the Itential virtual booth to learn more about how Itential can supercharge Ansible network automation and transform Ansible Playbooks, Modules, and Roles into APIs for end-to-end automation.

ONUG Fall 2020 (Oct 14-15) - Itential joins the Open Networking Users Group (ONUG) community in powering the transformation of digital enterprises while prioritizing the acceleration of cloud adoption at this years digital event. During the event, Itential will be providing demonstrations on how its products are helping enterprises simplify network automation initiatives across physical, virtual, and cloud networks as well as participate in additional sessions addressing the gap between CLI and API, network automation for hybrid and multi-cloud management, and the benefits and obstacles of bringing DevOps to the network.

NANOG 80 (Oct 19-21) - The North American Network Operators Group (NANOG) will host a virtual experience with sponsorship from Itential, addressing the latest networking challenges and best practices. Join Itentials automation engineers for hands-on demonstrations of Itentials low-code automation products for rapid automation of network operations use cases.

To learn more about these upcoming events, click here. For more information on Itential, visit http://www.itential.com and follow @Itential on Twitter.

About Itential

Itential provides powerful network automation software to companies worldwide, from Fortune 500 telecommunications and financial service companies to enterprises of all sizes. We are committed to building world-class products that accelerate the move toward software-driven networks and next generation, agile network operations. We are exclusively focused on delivering network automation solutions that help our customers realize their vision of digital transformation. Our solutions leverage the latest thinking, open standards, open architectures, partners and best practices to drive network operations and maximize the impact of automation.

For more information:


Russian President Vladimir Putin, center right, and Chinese President Xi Jinping, center left, enter a hall for the talks in the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia in June 5, 2019. Putin and Xi have established themselves as the worlds most powerful authoritarian leaders in decadesand is getting further help from President Trump, writes Trudy Rubin. Read more

The two big winners of Tuesdays presidential debate werent even standing on the platform.

The first winner was Russian President Vladimir Putin. The second was Chinas Xi Jinping.

Both men are promoting their authoritarian political models as superior to democratic systems that they dismiss as corrupt and failing. Xi aims to convince the world that America is in decline and China is destined for global leadership. Putin wants to show his restless people and his neighbors that the U.S. system is worse than Russias.

In his disgraceful debate shoutfest, President Donald Trump did their work for them, denigrating our democracy over and over. And his testing positive for COVID-19 only illustrates his failure to contain the virus.

The image of the U.S. as the worlds leading democracy is gone, says Yale Universitys Timothy Snyder, a leading scholar of 20th-century authoritarianism. We are teaching a whole new [global] generation that we are a parody of ourselves.

The president insisted the election process is a fraud" and rigged against him. Like a Belarusian dictator, he made clear hell reject the election results if he is defeated. He told white nationalist Proud Boys militiamen to stand by and threatened to intimidate voters with an army of poll watchers, both legal and illegal.

Even after four years of Trump antics, this crude attack on the election process still shocked the world.

The U.S. embarrassed itself before the world for 100 minutes, wrote the Times of India.

The debate was a low point for the country, tweeted a staffer for the German news magazine Der Spiegel. The trigger of course: Trumps uncouth, undignified behavior.

The US brand is in measurable freefall, much to Chinas delight, opined Edward Luce in Britains Financial Times.

These headlines (and many more like them) are not the normal foreign criticism of specific U.S. policies. They reflect the global belief that American democracy is declining precipitously under President Trump.

They also reflect the fact that  for the first time  many of our allies truly fear Trump will take an ax to the most central of democratic institutions: free and fair elections, followed by a peaceful transfer of power.

 READ MORE: Trump's use of the "big lie" with COVID-19 echoes autocrats past and present | Trudy Rubin

Since 1989 I have watched firsthand as would-be democrats tried to emulate what Americans take for granted, first in Prague, Warsaw, Budapest, Riga, and Tallinn, then in Moscow and St. Petersburg, and later in Tbilisi, Baghdad, Kabul, Tunis, Beirut, Cairo, Tehran, Kiev, and elsewhere. Sometimes they succeeded; more often they failed, but opposition leaders could still look to the American model.

Of course, that political model was under stress long before this debate. But the decline accelerated rapidly under a president who openly admires autocrats, and wants to emulate them.

A recent Pew Research Center Poll found that Americas reputation among 13 key allies and partners  including Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, and Australia  has continued the slide sparked by the Trump presidency. Only 34% of their publics hold a favorable view of the United States  and only 16% have confidence in Trump, who ranks lower than Xi (19%) or Putin (23%). How sad is that!

Trumps dismal ratings have been accelerated by his failure to contain COVID-19 (only a median 15% in the Pew poll believe the United States has handled the pandemic well). His illness - after refusing to mask and jeering at Joe Biden for doing so - only makes the U.S. response look more pathetic.

The combination of COVID-19 and Trumps behavior is a powerful one-two punch, says Snyder, who spoke with me by phone from Vienna. What worries him most is how Russia and China can play Trumps attack on democratic institutions.

I cant imagine a debate performance that better serves the needs of Russia, says Snyder, the author of On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons From the Twentieth Century. Putin says democracy and freedom are a joke. It looks as if Trump was hired to show Russias younger generation that the whole world is just like Russia, that there are no better systems. And that Trump thinks the same way as Putin.

For China, too, Trumps dump on democracy serves as useful warning to its young people that voting is a sham, and the Chinese system is more stable. Imagine how brave young Hong Kong pro-democrats, fighting for free elections, felt watching Trump.

 READ MORE: Inquirer LIVE: Worldview with Trudy Rubin and Fiona Hill

Trumps ode to election chaos also fits neatly into Russian efforts at election interference. As Fiona Hill, the former Russia expert on the National Security Council, told me in an Inquirer LIVE webinar: The whole point of Russian interference is to prove [to Americans] that our system isnt working. The Russians dont need to make things up. They can just amplify.

In other words, the Kremlin need only amplify Trumps claims of election fraud to stir more chaos on Nov. 3. The president has already provided the Kremlin with its script.

Americans now face the prospect that Putin and Xi will emerge as effective winners of our election  if Trump succeeds via chaos, violence, and court manipulation. Or even if he wins fairly, but continues to degrade our democratic institutions.

The only way to deny Beijing and Moscow that ugly victory is to massively vote Biden in.
YEREVAN, Armenia  Armenias military said its rockets shot down an Azerbaijani drone near the capital on Thursday night, as heavy fighting persisted in the conflict over the separatist region of Nagorno-Karabakh.

This weeks fighting is the biggest escalation in years in the decades-long dispute over the region, which is inside Azerbaijan but controlled by local ethnic Armenian forces backed by Armenia.

Two French and two Armenian journalists were injured Thursday in the fighting.

Late Thursday, Armenia fired anti-aircraft missiles that took down a drone over the town of Abovian, about 16 kilometers (10 miles) north of the capital of Yerevan, said defense ministry spokeswoman Shushan Stepanian. No casualties were reported.

Azerbaijani forces reportedly have shelled other Armenian villages outside Nagorno-Karabakh, but not as deeply into the country as Yerevan.

Two Le Monde reporters were wounded in morning shelling in the town of Martuni, the newspaper said. Armenias Foreign Ministry said they were being taken to a hospital and accused Azerbaijan of bombarding the region.

A cameraman with the Armenia TV channel and a reporter with the Armenian 24News outlet also were injured in the Martuni shelling, Armenian officials said. It was unclear how badly the four journalists were hurt. A Russian journalist with the independent Dozhd TV channel was reported to have reached a bomb shelter safely.

The clashes broke out Sunday in Nagorno-Karabakh, a region within Azerbaijan that has been controlled by Armenian forces since the end of a separatist war a quarter-century ago. Fighting has continued unchecked since then, killing dozens and leaving scores wounded. Armenian and Azerbaijani forces blame each other for continuing attacks.

The two ex-Soviet nations have been locked for decades in a conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh, where a separatist war was fought in the early 1990s, ending in 1994  three years after the breakup of the Soviet Union. The 4,400-square-kilometer (1,700-square-mile) enclave in the Caucasus Mountains, roughly the size of the U.S. state of Delaware, lies 50 kilometers (30 miles) from the Armenian border.

Soldiers backed by Armenia occupy the region as well as some Azerbaijani territory outside of it.

The president of Azerbaijan said Armenias withdrawal from Nagorno-Karabakh was the sole condition to end the fighting. Armenian officials claim Turkey is involved in the conflict, allegedly sending fighters from Syria to the region and deploying Turkish F-16 fighter jets to assist Azerbaijnai forces.

Turkey has publicly supported Azerbaijan in the conflict and said it would provide assistance if requested but denies sending in foreign mercenaries or arms.

The Armenian Foreign Ministry on Thursday said a civilian was killed and two were wounded when Azerbaijan fired on the town of Shatvan in Armenian territory.

Continued fighting in the turbulent region prompted calls for a cease-fire from around the globe and raised concerns of a broader conflict potentially involving other regional powers.

The office of French President Emmanuel Macron said in a statement that he and Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed the issue in a phone call Wednesday night and both share concern about the sending of Syrian mercenaries by Turkey to Nagorno-Karabakh. Macrons office did not elaborate.

Macron later told reporters in Brussels that we have information today that were confident in that Syrian fighters have been deployed to Azerbaijan. Its a very serious new development that also changes the balance of things, he said.

The Russian Foreign Ministry on Wednesday expressed concern over reports about militants from illegal armed groups from Syria and Libya being sent to the conflict zone in Nagorno-Karabakh. It didnt provide further details, but in a statement urged the leadership of the states concerned to take effective measures to prevent the use of foreign terrorists and mercenaries in the conflict.

Macron said he and Putin urged restraint and agreed upon the need for a joint effort toward a cease-fire, as part of international mediation efforts for Nagorno-Karabakh led by Russia, France and the U.S.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov refused to comment on Turkeys alleged involvement in the conflict, but said that any statements about military support for one of the (opposing) sides can provoke further escalation of tensions in the region.

We believe that any participation of third countries in this confrontation can also have extremely negative consequences, Peskov said.

___

Associated Press writers Angela Charlton in Paris and Daria Litvinova in Moscow contributed.
An international investigation by the LMPD has determined that police were told no suspicious packages were sent to Breonna Taylors home

Louisville police were told that there were suspicious or otherwise, or drug-related packages sent to the home of Breonna Taylor according to testimony from an LMPD report.

Suspected drug trafficking has long been believed the catalyst for the botched no-knock raid that resulted in Taylors death. On March 12, the day before Taylors death, Detective Joshua Jaynes claimed he verified through a US Postal Inspector that Jamarcus Glover has been receiving packages. Glover is Taylors ex-boyfriend who had items sent to her home and has insisted they were only clothing.

Read More: Bryson Tiller pays for Breonna Taylor billboards in hometown of Louisville

Breonna Taylor, 26, was killed by Louisville police on March 13. (Photo: Family of Breonna Taylor)

However, an internal investigation has cast doubt on that narrative, WDRB News reported Wednesday. The outlet obtained an investigative report from LMPDs Public Integrity Unit which stated that officers asked the Shively Police Department to check with the postal service and determine if drugs were being sent to the EMTs home.

Sgt. Jonathan Mattingly, one of the officers involved in the fatal raid, was asked by Shively police Sgt. Timothy Salyer in May about the affidavit that was used to authorize the raid. Mattingly apparently said there were no packages at the residence.

Sgt. Mattingly stated he told Detective Jaynes there was no package history at that address, Salyer told investigators, according to a summary of the interview.

Read More: Breonna Taylors Black neighbor questions exclusion from indictment: Im a human being too

Breonna Taylor. (Photo: Family of Breonna Taylor/David Dee Delgado/Getty Images)

The summary added that Mattingly had reached out to Salyer and Detective Mike Kuzma of the Shively department in January at the behest of Jaynes to find out if any packages were being sent to Taylors home. Glover received a package on Jan.16 that was sent to Taylors home. Police believed it was narcotics, prompting Mattingly to ask Salyer and Kuzma for an investigation.

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Salyer told Mattingly that no packages had been received at the address and the post office did not receive any packages either, he told Sgt. Jason Vance and Sgt. Jeremy Ruoff, who oversaw the interview. The date of this interview was not mentioned in the summary.

A week later after Detective Mike Nobles and Detective Kelly Hanna of the LMPD contacted Salyer about the issue and he told them the same information.

Taylor died on March 13 after a judge approved an early morning raid based on information provided by the police officers who said that her home was a known drug house. She was at home with her boyfriend Kenneth Walker who believed that they were being burglarized. Walker, a licensed gun owner, shot. Officers responded with fire.

Taylor was struck six times and died at the scene. A month after her death, the summary stated that Salyer received a text from Jaynes who was inquiring once more about packages sent to Taylors home.

Sgt. Sayler (sic) was confused as to why Detective Jaynes contacted him almost a month after the shooting incident inquiring about packages being delivered to the address, according to the summary.

Jaynes has since been reassigned over his conduct.

Protestors seek justice in the Breonna Taylor case. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

Read More: Officer charged in Breonna Taylor case pleads not guilty

As theGrio reported, Taylors death created backlash over how the raid was executed, and protests were held for months demanding that the officers involved be charged with connection to her death. In September, a grand jury decided not to directly charge any officer with direct involvement.

Former officer Brett Hankison, who was fired from the force for his actions during the raid, pleaded not guilty to three counts of wanton endangerment on Monday.

Officers Mattingly, who was shot in the leg by Taylors boyfriend, and Myles Cosgrove, who Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron said appeared to have fired the fatal shot at Taylor, according to ballistics tests, remain on the force.

A judge has ordered the transcripts of the grand jury deliberations to be released on Friday.

Have you subscribed to theGrios podcast Dear Culture? Download our newest episodes now!

The post Police told no suspicious, drug-related packages sent to Breonna Taylors home appeared first on TheGrio.
Western Australia may never reopen its hard borders to the rest of the country unless its 'unreasonably stringent' are relaxed, an expert epidemiologist has warned.

Premier Mark McGowan has refused to reopen the borders until all other states and territories record zero community transmissions for 28 consecutive days.

His strict stance was reiterated by the state's chief health officer Andy Robertson this week, who argued the hard border are crucial to managing the coronavirus threat in WA.

But University of NSW Professor World Health Organisation adviser Mary-Louise McLaws has warned WA's benchmark may never be reached.

WA slammed its borders shut to the rest of the country six months ago and is yet to reopen them. Pictured are police stopping drivers at a checkpoint 110km south of Perth

'I think that the 28 days is beyond caution,' Professor McLaws told the ABC.

'It's admirable, but it's looking for total eradication, or close to (it). And I don't think we can get to that.'

She believes a two-week rolling average of fewer than five cases in all states and territories is more realistic.

It's been six months since WA slammed its borders shut to the rest of the country for the first time time ever on April 2.

Mr McGowan was the only state or territory leader to not commit to reopening borders before Christmas at a recent National Cabinet meeting.

The state government website says Western Australian borders will only be reopened 'when it is appropriate to do so', based on health advice for WA.

'It is assessed and considered regularly,' the website adds.

Western Australia's border won't be opened up until all other states and territories record zero community transmissions for 28 consecutive days. Pictured is a deserted Perth Airport

Dr Robertson says the state is continuing to monitor the situation as it evolves.

'If you look at the modelling, we are now probably one of the most susceptible states if an infection were to get in here,' he told the ABC.

WA health authorities are scrambling to contain an outbreak of 17 cases on the Patricia Oldendorff cargo ship anchored off Port Headland on the north-west coast.

No new cases were reported on Wednesday, but nine people remain on the ship as essential crew, seven of whom have tested positive.

There are also 12 crew members in quarantine at the fenced-off Hedland Hotel, where all but two of them have tested positive.

The state government website says Western Australian borders will only be reopened 'when it is appropriate to do so'. Pictured is the the state's capital city of Perth

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian has slammed states with strict border restrictions, claiming they're 'are living in a false sense of security'.

'They are welcoming people from other states,' Ms Berejiklian told Sunrise on Wednesday.

'We have said if you want to keep the economy going, get rid of the borders, allow people to move freely, get the tourism industry going and of course, we can look at the opportunities into allowing more people into hospitality venues but we need to make sure we are ready for that.'

NSW has recorded its sixth consecutive day of zero community transmissions as Queensland opened its border to 152,000 NSW far north coast residents on Thursday, just in time for the public holiday weekend and second week of the school holidays.

The only two new cases recorded in NSW on Thursday were travellers in hotel quarantine,

Virus-riddled Victoria's two-week rolling average has fallen to 15.6, despite 15 more cases on Thursday.
Coronavirus vaccines might leave us laid up for a day with headaches, fevers, sore muscles, shivering chills and no energy, participants in trials for Moderna's and Pfizer's shots told CNBC.

But the side effects will be worth it, and fade after a day, they added.

Vaccines of all kinds commonly come with side effects - some more unpleasant than others.

Luke Hutchinsons, 44, was prepared for that possibility after signing up to help test whether Moderna's shot worked, safely.

He felt a bit less than 100 percent for a few days after the first dose but eight hours after his second dose on September 15, the healthy computational biologist was too weak to leave bed, running a high fever and writhing with pain and shivers.

It even got harder for Hutchinson to breathe. The experimental COVID-19 vaccine left him feeling like he'd contracted the virus it was meant to protect him against.

He wasn't the only one. CNBC spoke to two other participants in the Moderna trial and two enrolled in Pfizer's vaccine trial, all of whom reported intense - but thankfully brief - side effects.

In addition to their side effects, the vaccine testers share the opinion that most people should still get a COVID-19 vaccine, once one has been approved.

Luke Hutchinson, 44, volunteered to participate in Moderna's coronavirus vaccine trial. After his second dose of the shot, he developed a fever, aches that left him bedridden for the day and with chills so bad he cracked a tooth while shaking. He told CNBC he wishes he'd had warning, but thinks the shot's protection is worth the discomfort.

His first shot left Hutchinson with just mild side effects, but he compared his symptoms to 'full-on COVID' after the second shot

They also have some advice for the vaccine makers: warn people what they are in for after getting their shots.

'If this proves to work, people are going to have to toughen up,' another Moderna trial participant told CNBC.

'The first dose is no big deal. And then the second dose will definitely put you down for the day for sure....You will need to take a day off after the second dose,' added the North Carolina woman, who is in her 50s.

Some Excedrin carried her through the worst of her side effects.

She also spoke to other participants via Facebook that described arm pain similar to what's expected after a tetanus shot.

Hutchinson described feeling like he had a 'goose egg' on his shoulder at the site of the second injection.

He shivered so violently through the tormented night after the shot that he cracked one of his teeth.

Hutchinson described his experience as 'full-blown COVID-19 symptoms.'

But 12 hours later, it all stopped. His temperature returned to normal, the aches and pains subsided. He was his energetic self again.

A Maryland participant in Moderna's trial in his 20s spent a similarly unpleasant night wrestling with a fever and chills after his second dose.

He called Moderna, which responded quickly to tell him to report the symptoms via an app.

'I wasnt sure if I needed to go to the hospital or not because 104 is pretty high,' he told CNBC.

'But other than that, its been fine.'

The participants in the Pfizer trial did not elaborate on their experiences, but had similar symptoms, according to CNBC.

So far, data from Moderna's and Pfizer's vaccine trials have suggested they do trigger the production of antibodies against coronavirus, and are safe.

According to their published studies on the shots, volunteers who develop side effects are the minority, and the side effects they do develop are mild,or moderate.

They describe similar symptoms to those reported by the volunteers, but without first-hand details, the side effects sound on paper much less noticeable than they do when recounted by people who went through them.

But other trial participants - including older ones - have also come forward saying they have had no side effects.

Moderna's coronavirus vaccine triggered a strong antibody response in older adults, and only triggered 'severe' side effects in two volunteers, recently published data from the firm's phase 2 testing showed.

Two doses of the shot were given to each of about 40 volunteers, ages 56 to 70 and older.

All of the patients enrolled to the the study developed 'neutralizing' antibodies to coronavirus - the kinds of immune cells thought to be most capable of shutting down the virus and stopping it from infecting our cells.

About 80 percent of people who have died of coronavirus are older, making the safety of any vaccines against COVID-19 in aging populations paramount.

The 'severe' side effects included loss of appetite, fatigue that lasted days, and a high fever - which is particularly dangerous in older people.

With the election just over a month away, and President Trump promoting the possibility of a vaccine being given emergency approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), concerns are rising over the safety of COVID-19 shots.

Companies and public health experts are on high alert after AstraZeneca's trial was paused after a participant developed a dangerous spinal cord problem after getting the shot.

Now, as the trials near their ends, the scientists conducting them, people participating in them, and officials examining the data from the tests are walking a fine line between being careful to ensure the safety of a shot, and to ensure that people will take it.

'If it gets approved, I still think a lot of people should get the vaccine,' said a participant in Pfizer's trial.

'And I hope that all the side effects are made clear upfront.'
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Police are investigating a burglary at a popular restaurant on Hylan Boulevard in Dongan Hills.

The incident occurred around 5:40 a.m. on Thursday at Brunos Bakery and Restaurant at 1650 Hylan Boulevard, according to a spokesman for the NYPDs Deputy Commissioner of Public Information.

The burglar removed about $260 from the register and damaged some property, including office doors, registers and the skylight in the kitchen area, the police spokesman said

Were just not certain how he entered, said a source with knowledge of the investigation.

Police described the suspect as a male wearing all-black clothing, including a black sweatsuit and black sneakers.

No arrests have been made and the police investigation continues.

The Settepani family has been operating a bakery that expanded into a restaurant at its Hylan Boulevard location since December 2004.

The familys website describes the business as an authentic modern-day Italian bakery offering the uncommon excellence of Italian and French desserts found in Italy today. This extraordinary elegance has become the signature of the Brunos family.

Master baker Biagio Settepani, also of Brunos NYC Bakery, has won numerous awards and also participated in the Fig Fest in September.
The Canadian Civil Liberties Association (CCLA) won its challenge to Ontarios anti-carbon tax stickers before the Ontario Superior Court of Justice in a ruling released last week. The court found that the stickers were a form of compelled political expression that violated Section 2(b), the constitutional protection of free expression.

In the ruling, the court said, A government or political party can, in the words of Ontarios Minister of Energy, stick it to another tier of government or political party as a matter of free speech in an election campaign or otherwise. But a government cannot legislate a requirement that private retailers post a Sticker designed to accomplish that task. The mandatory fuel pump sticker is an unconstitutional attempt to do just that.

At issue, according to CCLA, is that forcing an opinion on someone or putting words in their mouth is a violation of the liberty, freedom of thought, association and expression. When someone does it from a position of power, it is demeaning and an abuse of authority. Forcing retailers to post a particular government-mandated message about a political issue, particularly just prior to a federal election, is compelled speech that is not reasonable and cannot be justified by any compelling government objective, CCLA said in a statement.

The Ontario legislature enacted the Federal Carbon Tax Transparency Act, 2019 (FCTTA) in May 2019. The FCTTA required that a notice explaining certain fuel charges be affixed to every gas pump in every gasoline station in Ontario. Under section 4 of the FCTTA, the notice requirement was enforced by substantial fines: $5,000 for a first offence and up to $10,000 for subsequent offences which could be accumulated daily.

The FCTTA was the Ontario governments response to the federal governments Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act (GGPPA) which imposed a 4.4 cents per litre fuel charge. The fuel charge increased to 6.6 cents per litre in April 2020 and is set to rise to 8.8 cents per litre in April 2021 and to 11.1 cents per litre in April 2022. The GGPPA was introduced as part of Canadas plan to implement a federal greenhouse gas emissions pricing structure to meet emission reduction targets under the Paris Agreement.

The ruling noted that Doug Ford was quoted in the Canadian Press as saying the carbon tax was a federal campaign issue and that in April 2019 Premier Ford said, People in our province have to know how the federal government is gouging them on the worst single tax you could ever put on the backs of people, the backs of businesses.

The fuel charge was, however, determined to be a regulatory charge designed as part of a broader regulatory scheme with respect to carbon emissions rather than a tax.

What is important here is not that the prescribed sticker is inaccurate or guilty of significant omissions but rather that in designing the sticker and making it mandatory, the government is trying to accomplish a task that is only coincidentally related to conveying the price of automobile fuel of carbon emissions. That is, the government is not so much explaining a policy but rather is making a partisan argument, the ruling stated.

Section 2, 4 and 5 of the FCTTA and O. Reg. 275/19 were determined to violate section 2(b) of the Charter and to be of no force or effect. Gasoline retailers are free to keep the stickers on their fuel pumps or to remove them, as they see fit.
New Amazon technology, introduced at two Amazon Go stores this week, lets shoppers pay for purchases by holding their hands over a scanner. The system, called Amazon One, may herald a new way of identifying yourself and paying for things that could change the way people shop, enter concerts, use public transportation, and many other things.

You've probably used a fingerprint scanner or facial recognition to unlock your smartphone. You already know that your voice and your retinas can be used to positively identify you and give you access to your various devices, and possibly to secure government or corporate facilities. Amazon's new Amazon One technology takes biometrics a step further by allowing shoppers to pay for purchases with a simple scan of their palms.

To stave off privacy concerns, the company says it is encrypting biometric data before storing it in the cloud, and that the data will be deleted from the cloud at the customer's request. An Amazon executive told GeekWire that the company had deliberately chosen users' palms as a biometric identifier because people can't be recognized from their palms the way they can from their faces. (Amazon has faced controversy over law enforcement use of its facial scanning technology and has suspended such use for one year.) Another benefit is that the user must choose to hover his or her hand over the scanner, meaning that users can't be scanned without their knowledge or consent.

Shopping in 15 seconds?

GeekWire's Todd Bishop tried Amazon One out at Seattle's Amazon Go stores and found that his shopping experience was incredibly fast. As the company promised, it took less than a minute to set up the scan of his palm at a small kiosk, linking it with his credit card and mobile number. Amazon Go stores have no cash registers, so there's no place to wait in line. With no need to even pull out a phone (which is how shoppers traditionally gain access to Amazon Go stores and then pay for their purchases on the way out), there was literally nothing to slow him down; all he had to do was hover his hand over a scanner to pay for his drink. "Going from storefront to shelf to sidewalk easily took less than a minute," he writes. If he hadn't stopped to snap a few pictures, chat with the security guard, and hesitate over which sparkling water to buy, it could easily have been 15 seconds, he adds. "Given the state of the family refrigerator sometimes," he says, "if there were a convenience store with this technology close to my house, it could actually be faster to retrieve an item from one of its shelves than to find it on one of ours."

Paying with your palm as a proof-of-concept at a couple of futuristic convenience stores may not seem like such a big deal, but it's easy to see the future potential of this technology, which Amazon is already offering to other companies. Imagine the convenience of simply using your palm to board an airplane, enter an event, pay for your groceries, or identify yourself at your workplace. One obvious place it could appear soon is at your local Whole Foods market, since Amazon owns Whole Foods. Despite reports that Amazon One is in the plans for Whole Foods, the company has so far declined to say whether it will be introduced in those stores.
Terri Davie on Thursday was named Oregon State Police acting superintendent, becoming the first woman ever to lead the organization and the only woman to currently manage a state police or state highway patrol agency in the country.

Davie, 52, will serve as acting superintendent until next month when she becomes superintendent. She replaces Travis Hampton, who officially retires Nov. 1. Hampton had long planned to step aside a month early to use his accumulated paid leave.
Anurag Kashayp Has Denied All Allegations

Responding to her allegation, Kashyap had claimed on Twitter, "I neither behave like this nor do I ever tolerate this at any price." In another tweet, he claimed the allegations were an attempt to silence him against the criticism and vilification of Bollywood. He wrote, "Such a long time was taken to shut me up, never mind. (But) while shutting me up, you lied so much that you dragged other women also in it. Please maintain some dignity madam. All I will say is that all your allegations are baseless."

Many B-Town Celebs Have Tweeted In The Filmmaker's Support

Many actors like Taapsee Pannu, Surveen Chawla, Anjana Sukhani, lyricist Garima and a few others including his ex-wife Kalki Koechlin, have been tweeting in support of Anurag Kashyap. The filmmaker's lawyer had said, "My client, Anurag Kashyap, has been deeply pained by the false allegations of sexual misconduct that have recently surfaced against him. These allegations are completely false, malicious and dishonest..."

Payal Filed An Official Complaint On September 21

After filing the complaint last week, Payal also met Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari on Tuesday (September 29), seeking Y-category security from the government to ensure her safety. According to reports, they met at the Raj Bhavan and were accompanied by Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Ramdas Athawale.
(Newser)  Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was denied an audience with Pope Francis during his visit to the Vatican this weekbut he was welcomed by the pontiff's critics. Vatican officials said it is normal for the pope not to meet political figures during election periods, though they also expressed concern about Pompeo's demand for the church to end its deal with China on the appointment of bishops, Fox reports. In September, Pompeo wrote an op-ed in conservative Christian magazine First Things urging the Vatican not to renew the deal because of Beijing's human rights abuses. "The Vatican endangers its moral authority, should it renew the deal," Pompeo wrote in a tweet sharing the article.

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Francis is not popular with conservative American Catholics, and top Vatican diplomats including Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's secretary of state, suggested Pompeo was grandstanding to influence US voters, the BBC reports. "Some have interpreted it this waythat the comments were above all for domestic political use," Parolin said. "I don't have proof of this but certainly this is one way of looking at it." Pompeo, who will meet Parolin Thursday, met church figures opposed to Francis Wednesday and attended an event on religious freedom organized by Calista Gingrich, the American ambassador to the Vatican, the New York Times reports. Attendees included Cardinal Raymond Burke, who said in 2004 that he would deny communion to John Kerry. (Read more Vatican stories.)
The U.S. set of sanctions has reportedly been prepared, while there is no certainty as to the timing of their announcement.

The United States has refrained from joining Britain and Canada in the move to impose sanctions on Belarus, hoping the European Union will be able to tackle an internal dispute, thus greenlighting a coordinated U.S.-EU effort, four sources said on Wednesday.

The EU vowed in August to impose sanctions on Belarus for the alleged vote count fraud in the presidential election held August 9, as well for violence against protesters. However, Cyprus, one of the Bloc's smallest members, has hindered that, as reported by Reuters.

Cyprus says it will not approve of the Belarusian sanctions unless the EU adds to the package sanctions on Turkey over a separate oil and gas drilling dispute with Turkey.

Six sources told Reuters last week that Britain, Canada, and the United States initially planned to hit individual Belarusians with sanctions in a coordinated effort, while only London and Ottawa followed suit on Tuesday.

Read alsoUK, Canada slap sanctions on Lukashenko, his sonAnonymous sources said the U.S. held on the move, believing the EU might achieve consensus as early as this week, at the European Council meeting.

A U.S. set of sanctions was essentially ready, but the timing of any announcement was uncertain, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters.

Belarus election: Reactions
Sedgwick, a global provider of technology-enabled risk, benefits and integrated business solutions, has acquired Perigest, a loss adjusting and claims management company in Portugal.

The transaction represents an important step for Sedgwick as a market leader in Spain and Portugal and is in line with the companys international business growth strategy, said Sedgwick in a statement.

Founded in 2006, Perigest specializes in providing loss adjusting and claims management services in marine & cargo, property and liability. The company primarily serves national and international insurance companies, reinsurers, brokers, risk managers and multinational and local companies.

With Perigest, Sedgwick said it is acquiring the largest actor in the Portuguese claims market with a robust client base and strong expertise that will provide a scalable platform for growth in the Iberian Peninsula. The acquisition also allows Sedgwick to become the leading provider of loss adjusting and claims management services in Spain and Portugal.

The transaction will enable us to optimize our strategic positioning in Spain and Portugal and to capture future growth opportunities as the biggest international provider of loss adjusting, cargo and claims management of, said Ana Franco de Sarabia, country manager of Sedgwick Iberia. This will not only enable us to diversify our customer base and help Sedgwick to evolve its expertise, it will also support our international growth ambition and strengthen our leadership in this region.

Commenting on the acquisition, Botelho Vaz, director and CEO of Perigest said: With Sedgwicks global resources and our extensive local sector expertise, I am confident that together we have the scale and capabilities to meet the growing demand for specialised claims investigation services in the claims market and drive growth both in Spain, Portugal and further afield. I am, therefore, excited to work with Ana and all of the Sedgwick Iberia team going forward.

Source: Sedgwick

Topics Mergers Claims Profit Loss
New Delhi:

Government on Friday told the Rajya Sabha that all measures are being taken to manage the situation created by the oil spill near the Chennai coast even as a probe is underway to ascertain its causes and contributory factors.

There was no casualty or injury to the crew members, Minister of State for Shipping Mansukh Lal Mandaviya said in a statement in the Upper House.

Director General of Shipping has instituted an inquiry under the Merchant Shipping Act to ascertain the cause and contributory factors that led to the accident, he said.

Asserting that the government is taking all the measures to manage the situation, he shared details of the cleanup operation post the oil spill, saying the sludge to the tune of 65 tonnes has been removed so far.

In addition, super suckers have removed 54 tonnes which contains 70 per cent water. More than 80 per cent of the work has been completed and most of the residual work is expected to be completed within 2 to 3 days, he said.

Mandaviya said that the Coast Guard ship and helicopters are carrying out regular sorties for continuous monitoring of oil slick.

If oil spillage accumulation is spotted anywhere, manpower and material under the overall supervision of Coast Guard will be deployed, he added.

Two vessels M.T. BW Maple and M.T. Dawn Kanchipuram collided on January 28 while crossing each other off the Kamarajar harbour. The vessel Kanchipuram, which was carrying 32,813 tonnes of POL (petroleum oil lubricant), suffered a rupture which led to the oil spill.

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In the year 2000, Luxembourg had 2,728 farms across the country. In 2019, only 1,872 farms were left - nearly 1,000 less than 19 years ago.

And yet the average surface area of farms has only increased over the same period. The average area of a plot was 53.2 hectares at the beginning of the century, whether it is 77 hectares now. The data suggests that the farms that have disappeared have either been bought up or fused with others. The agricultural area in use as increased ever since the year 2000.

Most land is used to raise livestock and poultry, the main farming activities over the past two decades. In fact, in 2019, pastureland accounted for 43.1% of Luxembourg's agricultural land. By way of comparison: fodder crops (21.6%) and cereals (20.8%) together did not take up as much space in the same year.

And despite the surface area of pastureland in Luxembourg, the latest Statec report shows that the cattle population has been in decline since 2000. A decline which, far from being significant, nevertheless indicates something about meat consumption in Luxembourg.

Although the cattle and sheep population has gone down for several years, the number of chickens and hens has risen impressively since 2000. It has gone from 71,785 hens and chickens in 2000 to 132,138 in 2019. This is almost twice as much poultry as at the beginning of the century.

 Statec  Statec The photos published on this site are subject to copyright and may not be copied, modified, or sold without the prior permission of the owner of the site in question.

If we analyse the evolution of the agricultural labour force, we can see that the family labour force has been decreasing since the year 2000, while the share of salaried workers is increasing in this sector. This suggests that family businesses have lost ground to more "modern" farms.
Leaders from diverse faith groups warn that President Donald Trumps refusal to condemn white supremacists during Tuesdays debate will further embolden racists and endanger minority communities, many of which have already been victims of escalations in hate crimes and targeted attacks in recent years.

Im not surprised, but saddened, said Randy Czalinsky, director of the American Jewish Center in Houston.

During the nationally televised debate with Democratic challenger Joe Biden, Trump was repeatedly asked to condemn white supremacist groups such as the Proud Boys. The Alt-Right faction has been classified as a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center. Its members have been convicted of numerous violent crimes, and its founder has a long and documented history of racist and xenophobic remarks.

Rather than condemn the group, Trump equivocated before advising the Proud Boys to stand back, and stand by.

Telling someone to stand by is not a denouncement in the least, said Manpreet Singh of the Sikh Coalition. All of our elected officials should be able to clearly and unequivocally reject white nationalism and disavow any supporters who profess it. This is a simple test that President Trump has failed multiple times before, and the Proud Boys and others continue to celebrate these kinds of remarks from him.

The president walked back his comments Wednesday, saying he didnt know who the Proud Boys are.

Whoever they are, Trump said, they have to stand down, let law enforcement do their work.

Sikhs, for whom nonviolence and public service are central faith tenants, were among the first victims of a wave of hate crimes that started soon after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Three days after the Twin Towers fell, a Sikh-American gas station owner in Arizona was fatally shot in what authorities say was one of the first 9/11-related hate crimes. Eleven years later, a gunman with neo-Nazi ties opened fire at a gudwara (temple) in Oak Creek, Wis., killing six.

Since then, Sikh groups have turned to education to curb violence. Those efforts, Singh said, have been further complicated by Trump, who recently moved to end racial sensitivity training for federal agencies, calling it racist during the Tuesday night debate.

If we educate people as to who we are, then hopefully there will be an understanding and hate crimes will decrease, Singh said, adding that Trumps rhetoric has been the antithesis of Sikh beliefs and practices.

Trumps remarks directly contradict years of warnings from top law enforcement officials  including those in the presidents current administration  that white supremacist groups pose among the most serious and growing threats to American democracy, law and order.

Those warnings date back more than a decade: In 2009, a report commissioned under the Bush administration explicitly caution about growing racism and xenophobia nationwide, saying that right-wing extremism was all but certain to increase amid economic downturn and the rise of the internet as a crucial recruiting tool.

The report was later rescinded at the request of Republican lawmakers who said its findings were offensive.

Hate crimes have not slowed since then, as groups such as Atomwaffen Division  the accelerationist Nazi group that was until recently led by a Conroe man  continue to rack up body counts.

Trumps remarks, faith leaders said Wednesday, will only continue that trend.

The president has previously painted Mexican immigrants as rapists; questioned a federal judges impartiality because of his Hispanic heritage; lied that New York Muslims celebrated the 9/11 attacks; questioned the patriotism of three congresswomen of color; and blamed both sides in a 2017 deadly clash in Charlottesville, Va., during which tiki torch-wielding white nationalists and neo-Nazis yelled slogans such as Jews will not replace us.

White supremacist groups are ready, Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League, told CNN on Wednesday. They see last night as a call to arms, and thats why it should be so alarming to all of us. Their kind of extremism should be rejected by elected officials at every level.

Czalinsky, of the Houston American Jewish Committee, noted that the FBI and Department of Justice have both said American Jews are disproportionately targeted for hate crimes. The president, he said, missed an opportunity to unite Americans during the pandemic and a recession because of his inability to speak out against white supremacists.

Now, some faith leaders are demanding that others take pronounced and clear stances in opposition to Trumps claims.

Shariq Ghani, of the Minaret Foundation, said he was appalled by what he said has been a lack of condemnation from other Republican leaders Wednesday.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Trump has changed evangelical Christianity in America

That is a travesty, he said. We all have a collective responsibility to push back. Silence is not an option anymore If there were people on the fence about whether white supremacy is a threat, theres no way they could be on the fence anymore, he continued. White supremacy is being normalized.

Others also called for continued action to combat white supremacists, racism and xenophobia.

Any person who does not see that every person is made in the image of God is anti-Christ, and must be repudiated, said Steve Bezner, pastor of Houston Northwest Church.

In June  and as protests over the killing of George Floyd by a Minnesota police officer spread across the country  Bezner and Blake Wilson, a longtime friend and pastor of the Crossover Bible Fellowship, a predominantly Black congregation, launched an initiative they hope will prompt conversations about race and injustice in churches around Houston. This weekend, their churches and others will begin an eight-week sermon series that will challenge others views on racism.

American churches have largely been split on if  or how  to address such issues, and research shows significant differences between Black and white churchgoers when it comes to acknowledging its severity or root causes. White evangelicals also remain one of Trumps most reliable voting blocs.

Despite Trumps comments, Wilson said Wednesday that he remains hopeful.

It confirms to me that the answer is not going to come from political or activist means, but through spiritual and heart changes, he said. We should, as believers, announce the good news that what Trump was partial on, God is impartial on.

robert.downen@chron.com
Renowned race and religion scholar Michael Eric Dyson to join Vanderbilt University

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Renowned race and religion scholar Michael Eric Dyson, an ordained Baptist minister who currently serves as professor of sociology at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., will join the faculty of Vanderbilt University in Tennessee at the beginning of 2021.

Dyson, a progressive author and activist who is known for his scholarship and commentary on popular culture in national media, will join the Nashville-based research university as the centennial chair and distinguished professor of African American and Diaspora Studies in the College of Arts and Science.

The 61-year-old will also serve as a distinguished professor of ethics and society in the Vanderbilt Divinity School.

In a statement Monday, Vanderbilt chancellor Daniel Diermeier welcomed Dyson as a vital addition to the universitys faculty.

He is a vital and inspiring addition to our community, a scholar with a proven ability to empower students and transform lives through dialogue, analysis and new modes of inquiry, Diermeier said. These characteristics lie at the very core of our academic mission.

Dyson said he is excited about the partnership with the Vanderbilt community.

I look forward to joining the vibrant and collaborative Vanderbilt community at a pivotal time when  as scholars and engaged citizens  we can make a significant impact on the future of our nation, he said.

Dyson has authored and edited more than 20 books examining race, politics and popular culture, including the forthcoming Long Time Coming: Reckoning with Race in America and his 2017 bestseller Tears We Cannot Stop: A Sermon to White America.

He was also the recipient of two NAACP Image Awards and an American Book Award, which he received for his 2007 work Come Hell or High Water: Hurricane Katrina and the Color of Disaster.

The breadth of Michael Eric Dysons scholarship is testament to how his approach to learning and discovery truly crosses disciplines, Susan R. Wente, provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs, said. Welcoming his expansive mindset to our One Vanderbilt culture will expand our work together, and across academic departments, to make the broadest possible impact."

In a June interview with The New York Times, Dyson argued that the Bible is widely misunderstood by evangelicals who take every word from it literally.

He was asked: "Do you think any canonical books are widely misunderstood?"

The Bible," he responded, "by nearly every right-wing evangelical Christian zealot who hates a lot of folk that God loves, and by every believer who wants to take literally words bathed in divine metaphor and drenched in heavenly symbolism."

Dyson holds a Ph.D. in religion from Princeton University and has previously taught at other institutions like the University of Pennsylvania, Brown University, Chicago Theological Seminary and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Through his theological background, award-winning books and active participation in the current media landscape, Michael Eric Dyson has influenced countless Americans, John Geer, the Ginny and Conner Searcy Dean of the College of Arts and Science, said in the statement. His coming to Vanderbilt means that our students will be able to engage with, and take cues from, a true visionary  and at a moment when his insight is more resonant than ever before.
Twenty-four classified call centre jobs at The Hamilton Spectator that had been slated to move to the U.S. are staying put.

Paul Rivett and Jordan Bitove, the new owners of Torstar, parent company of the Spectator, announced Wednesday they will keep the jobs north of the border.

In a phone interview with The Spectator, Rivett said they had been unaware Torstar planned to move the work, and after meeting with representatives from UNIFOR Local 87  the union that represents employees at The Spectator  they decided to make the move to keep it in Hamilton.

We are only 45 days in (since acquiring Torstar) but we are trying to find ways to be more creative with the great people we have, and not give away business to people outside our organization, let alone outside the country, he said.

Rivett praised UNIFOR president Jerry Dias and other union representatives for collaborating with them on a solution.

Hats off to Jerry and his people for being so collaborative; they are progressive, smart, foward-thinking people and were quite helpful in working with us to make this happen.

Torstar had previously announced that eight full-time and 16-part time positions from The Specs call centre would be leaving Hamilton for Buffalo. The workers had been scheduled to be out of work on Oct. 19.

In a news release, UNIFOR applauded the change in direction, saying that Rivett and Bitove have stepped up to invest in Canadian workers.

Dias said he is pleased the union was able to work with the new owners to find an alternative solution to moving these jobs.

Rivett said keeping the work in Hamilton is the right thing to do, not just as business owners, but as Canadians. These are tough times, and thats an understatement with everything going on, and we need to work collaboratively to be stronger, faster and better.

He added there are a number of initiatives Torstar plans to explore in that vein.

There are some seriously fantastic, dedicated people in our organization and we just need to find ways to help us all win.

In addition to The Hamilton Spectator, that has been publishing for 174 years, Torstar owns the Toronto Star and more than 70 regional daily and community newspapers, including the Waterloo Region Record and St. Catharines Standard.
Actor Shekhar Suman has taken issue at Sushant Singh Rajputs reputation being harmed by the testimonies provided about his alleged drug use. In a tweet, Shekhar called the allegations unfair, as Sushant could not defend himself.

He wrote, All the confessions and testimonials of the women being probed for the drug case are tarnishing Sushants name calling him a drug addict. Also attacking his character. This is so unfair and inhuman,for a dead man cannot defend himself.

All the confessions and testimonials of the women being probed for the drug case are tarnishing Sushant's name calling him a drug addict.Also attacking his character.This is so unfair and inhuman,for a dead man cannot defend himself.#SushantJusticeNow  Shekhar Suman (@shekharsuman7) September 29, 2020

Sushant died on June 14, at the age of 34. His girlfriend, actor Rhea Chakraborty, was later accused by his father of abetment to suicide. She was arrested on drugs-related charges, after the Narcotics Control Bureau became involved in the case, and found evidence tying her to drugs.

In a TV interview prior to her arrest, Rhea had said that Sushant used to smoke marijuana. In an interview to India Today she said, Yes, Sushant used to smoke marijuana, he used to take it even before he met me. He started this during Kedarnath. I used to control him in this department only. He was a man of his own choices and nobody could stop him.

According to NDTV, Rhea said in her bail plea, Sushant Singh Rajput was the only consumer of drugs and that he was directing his staff members to procure his drugs. She added, If the late actor were alive today, he would have been charged for the consumption of small quantities, which is a bailable offence having punishment of a term of imprisonment upto one year.

Also read: Shekhar Suman wants focus of probe to shift back to Sushant Singh Rajputs death: Arrest the druggies but...

The investigation into the drugs angle has put the spotlight on several Bollywood celebrities, some of whom have been summoned for questioning by the NCB. Shekhar echoed Sushants family lawyers sentiments that the drugs angle has diverted attention from investigation into the actors death. He wrote in another tweet, We cannot afford to lose hope even though it may seem things r not moving in our favour right now.But picture abhi baaki hai..There may be a few surprises in store for us. So on Sushants front all is not lost.His family must bcom more vocal.

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When Pennsylvanias Legislature approved voting reforms last year, it seemed Democrats won a coup when Republicans backed vote-by-mail.

Put simply, making voting easier in a state with a lot more Democrats than Republicans is a plus for Democrats.

Then the pandemic made mail-in even more attractive and, in an election year, sharpened that Democratic edge.
The Hunterdon County Freeholders' tour of Economic Development projects continued this week when board director Shaun C. Van Doren and deputy director Susan J. Soloway visited with the businesses at the Stockton Market in Stockton, gaining insight into how the countys farmers markets have adapted to the COVID-19 rules and thrived in 2020.

The site visit was another for the freeholders along the countys newly established Hunterdon 579 Trail, a new initiative aimed at marketing and promoting the businesses and farms that make up the countys agribusiness and agritourism sectors.

Van Doren and Soloway, along with Economic Development director Marc Saluk, spoke with the markets' merchants, learning how the market successfully navigated the start of the COVID-19 pandemic by adding a grocery store, changing their business practices, and emphasizing safety and public health.

What the Stockton Market, along with our entire agribusiness sector really, has done to stay in business providing fresh food options to Hunterdon residents this year is extremely impressive, and also incredibly helpful for our populations' health, Van Doren said.

Van Doren said he was told, that the market and its merchants worked early in the year with the county health department to develop an approved list of pandemic protocols, which were then shared with other Hunterdon markets.

Van Doren added that the result is that the market has found and maintained an entirely new customer base. Market merchants meeting with the Freeholders included: Highland Gourmet, BBQ 434, Market Pizza, Marias Cusina, Market Coffee, and D Town Dumplings. Each merchant outlined their initial adjustments to the pandemic when they made it their mission to continue to offer a safe, local option for residents to easily find fresh food and supplies.

Soloway, the boards economic development liaison, said, Were extremely fortunate to have a group of merchants so committed to the population, to doing business safely, and to aiding other Hunterdon businesses during a time of crises

The Freeholders economic development sites tour is focusing on business projects along the Hunterdon 579 Trail, in addition to locations with county-funded development projects. Previous stops have included a visit to the site of the future county park along the Delaware River in Milford, along with the tour of Mount Salem Vineyards in Alexandria.

Agriculture has long been a fundamental part of the Hunterdon economy and will continue to be for a very long time, said Soloway."
SACRAMENTO, Calif., Sept. 30, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Privacy advocates have sounded the alarm that Proposition 24 expands the power of big business to charge consumers higher fees to stop the selling or sharing of their confidential information. Sections 125(a)(2) & (3) (b) (1) (2) and (3) of Prop 24 authorize online businesses to charge more for privacy protection, and to provide inferior services to consumers who do not pay extra fees for privacy.

Richard Holober, President, Consumer Federation of California stated, "Hidden in Proposition 24's 52 pages is language authorizing tech corporations to charge more to consumers to assert their right to privacy. Those who don't pay more could get service downgrades, bad connections, slower downloads and more pop up ads. It's an electronic version of freeway express lanes for the wealthy and traffic jams for everyone else."

Consumer, privacy and public policy advocates are calling out this unfair and discriminatory component of Prop 24:

"Prop 24 allows companies to use and share your personal information without getting your permission  and then charge more when you ask for privacy." Jacob Snow , ACLU of Northern California https://noon24ca.org/what-experts-are-saying/

, https://noon24ca.org/what-experts-are-saying/ "Prop 24 expands the ability, which already exists in the CCPA, for businesses to provide inferior service for consumers who don't pay to protect their confidential information, and superior service for Californians who do pay." League of Women Voters of California https://lwvc.org/vote/elections/ballot-recommendations/prop-24consumer-data-privacy

https://lwvc.org/vote/elections/ballot-recommendations/prop-24consumer-data-privacy "CPRA [Prop 24] could have ensured that consumers can't be charged higher prices or discriminated against simply for exercising their privacy rights The CPRA [Prop 24] misses the mark on both counts." Maureen Mahoney , Consumer Reports https://iapp.org/news/a/cpra-promises-short-term-consumer-benefits-long-term-uncertainty/

, https://iapp.org/news/a/cpra-promises-short-term-consumer-benefits-long-term-uncertainty/ "Prop 24 would expand 'pay for privacy' schemes. Specifically, the initiative would exempt "loyalty clubs" from the CCPA's existing limit on businesses charging different prices to consumers who exercise their privacy rights. See Sec. 125(a)(3). This change would allow a business to withhold a discount from a consumer, unless the consumer lets the business harvest granular data about their shopping habits, and then profit on disclosure of that data to other businesses.Unfortunately, pay-for-privacy schemes pressure all Californians to surrender their privacy rights. Worse, because of our society's glaring economic inequalities, these schemes will unjustly lead to a society of privacy "haves" and "have-nots." Electronic Frontiers Foundation , https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2020/07/why-eff-doesnt-support-cal-prop-24

Sec. 125(a)(3). This change would allow a business to withhold a discount from a consumer, unless the consumer lets the business harvest granular data about their shopping habits, and then profit on disclosure of that data to other businesses.Unfortunately, pay-for-privacy schemes pressure all Californians to surrender their privacy rights. Worse, because of our society's glaring economic inequalities, these schemes will unjustly lead to a society of privacy "haves" and "have-nots." , https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2020/07/why-eff-doesnt-support-cal-prop-24 "Proposition 24 asks you to vote for what is in effect a privacy poll tax." Tracy Rosenberg , Media Alliance https://media-alliance.org/2020/09/prop-24-actually-pokes-holes-in-data-privacy-protections/

, https://media-alliance.org/2020/09/prop-24-actually-pokes-holes-in-data-privacy-protections/ "We urge voters to reject Proposition 24 It appears that Prop 24 would allow businesses to create new 'pay for privacy' schemes. Tech companies could downgrade service to those who cannot or will not pay an extra fee. This is unfair to low-income consumers, seniors and people of color who are already struggling to afford essential high-speed internet connections while enduring a pandemic and massive unemployment." Linda Sherry , Consumer Action. https://www.consumer-action.org/press/articles/consumer-action-opposes-california-proposition-24

"AT&T test-marketed charging broadband internet customers an extra $29 per month to protect the privacy of their personal data. It withdrew the privacy surcharge for the moment, following a firestorm of criticism. Privacy is a fundamental right of the people. Voters should reject Prop 24 and tell big tech that privacy is not a luxury item for the wealthy," Richard Holober, Consumer Federation of California stated.

SOURCE Californians for Real Privacy - No on Proposition 24
Portlands sheriff denied President Donald Trumps statement about law enforcement support during last nights presidential debate.

In tonights presidential debate the President said the Portland Sheriff supports him. As the Multnomah County Sheriff I have never supported Donald Trump and will never support him, Sheriff Mike Reese tweeted Tuesday night.

Donald Trump has made my job a hell of a lot harder since he started talking about Portland, but I never thought hed try to turn my wife against me! Reese continued.

Trump said he had been endorsed by Reese during the debate with Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden.

Almost every law enforcement group in the United States  I have Florida, I have Texas, I have Ohio, I have everyone  excuse me, Portland sheriff just came out today and said I support President Trump. I dont think you have any law enforcement, Trump said to Biden. You cant even say the word law enforcement because if you say those words, youre going to lose all of your radical left supporters.

Trump has clashed with Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler over protests in the city. Federal troops were deployed during protests following the death of George Floyd, a Black man who died in Minneapolis police custody.

On Aug. 29, a Trump supporter was killed and Trump called Wheeler a fool for allowing violence in the city, The Associated Press reported. Trump sent more than 100 federal troops there in July to safeguard federal property.

Thats classic Trump. Mr. President, how can you think that a comment like that, if youre watching this, is in any way helpful? Wheeler said, according to The AP. Its an aggressive stance, it is not collaborative. I certainly reached out, I believe in a collaborative manner, by saying earlier that you need to do your part and I need to do my part and then we both need to be held accountable.

Biden was asked during the debate if he had called Oregon Gov. Kate Brown or Wheeler about quelling violence during the protests. Biden explained he doesnt hold public office, but he said he believed they can in fact take care of it if [Trump] just stays out of the way.

Trump has accused Biden of being weak on crime. Its crazy whats going on, and he doesnt want to say law and order, and he cant, because hell lose his radical left supporters, and then its all over, Trump said during the debate.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 12:06:57|Editor: huaxia

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LOS ANGELES, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- Over 5,000 employees at the Disneyland resort in California's Orange County are to be laid off as the COVID-19 pandemic has hammered its business, a local newspaper reported Wednesday.

The company announced Tuesday that 28,000 employees would be laid off at Disneyland, Disney World, Imagineering and in the company's cruise line, travel planning, gaming and publishing divisions.

Disney employs more than 100,000 people at its U.S. theme parks, including 32,000 at Disneyland in Southern California and 77,000 at Disney World in Florida.

The Chairman of Disney Parks Josh D'Amaro said in a letter to employees that since the California administration had no plans to allow the theme park to reopen, the company had to make this difficult decision.

California Adventure and Disneyland, both located in Southern California, closed in mid-March due to the COVID-19 pandemic and remain shuttered, while Disney's theme parks in China, France, Japan and Florida have reopened with limited capacity.

"We initially hoped that this situation would be short-lived, and that we would recover quickly and return to normal," D'Amaro said in the letter, "seven months later, we find that has not been the case."

Unions that represent a vast majority of Disneyland employees are just beginning to assess the massive layoffs that will impact their members, the local newspaper said, adding the unions' officials were scheduled to meet Disney's senior executives in the coming days.

A growing chorus of theme parks, city leaders, state lawmakers and industry associations have called on California Governor Gavin Newsom to reopen Disneyland, Universal Studios Hollywood and other amusement parks throughout the state. Enditem
Supplier News

1 October 2020

LOS ANGELES - Today Hotel Tech Report launched the "Official 2021 Guide to Central Reservations Systems," now available free of charge to the entire hotel community thanks to sponsor Pegasus.

"The hotel industry has been disproportionately impacted by the current pandemic and have been forced to do more with less. How do you maximize profitability and guest experience with less staff and resources? Technology is the key. This Central Reservations Systems guide is designed to give buyers exactly the information they need to make an educated decision about their next Central Reservations System," says Hotel Tech Report CEO Jordan Hollander.

This is a critical time for buyers to be adopting Central Reservations Systems. The COVID-19 pandemic evaporated hotel bookings overnight. How do hotels get more bookings when there are less overall travelers in the market? They need to steal market share. A CRS is the critical piece of the hotel tech stack enabling hotels to efficiently optimize their channel mix and look at their businesses holistically across both direct bookings and third party distribution channels like GDS and OTAs.

"Pegasus was the perfect sponsor for this piece because the team deeply understands that smart buyers are researching all available options and Pegasus is focused on being a partner to the hotel industry regardless of whether they are making a sale. That's the mentality that makes industry leaders," Hollander says.

DOWNLOAD THE FREE GUIDE HERE

Inside the guide buyers will find skimmable data such as:

The latest trends in Central Reservations Systems

Pricing considerations

Return on investment calculations

KPIs to track

Implementation expectations

Key integrations

Questions to ask vendors

The guide also includes a bonus RFP Toolkit & Vendor Scorecard for hoteliers and consultants to run a more formal Central Reservations Systems procurement process with ease regardless of their budget and company size.
CHICAGO, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Conagra Brands, Inc. (NYSE: CAG) today announced that the Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.275 per share of common stock to be paid on December 2, 2020 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on November 2, 2020. This represents a 29% increase over Conagra Brands' previous quarterly dividend. The new quarterly dividend of $0.275 per share is equivalent to $1.10 per share annually.

About Conagra Brands

Conagra Brands, Inc. (NYSE: CAG), headquartered in Chicago, is one of North America's leading branded food companies. Guided by an entrepreneurial spirit, Conagra Brands combines a rich heritage of making great food with a sharpened focus on innovation. The company's portfolio is evolving to satisfy people's changing food preferences. Conagra's iconic brands, such as Birds Eye, Marie Callender's, Banquet, Healthy Choice, Slim Jim, Reddi-wip, and Vlasic, as well as emerging brands, including Angie's BOOMCHICKAPOP, Duke's, Earth Balance, Gardein, and Frontera, offer choices for every occasion. For more information, visit www.conagrabrands.com.

For more information, please contact:

MEDIA: Mike Cummins

312-549-5257

[email protected]



INVESTORS: Brian Kearney

312-549-5002

[email protected]

SOURCE Conagra Brands, Inc.

Related Links

https://www.conagrabrands.com


Stridas LLC focuses on streamlining the overall customer experience while delivering increased savings and efficiencies

CINCINNATI, OH / ACCESSWIRE / October 1, 2020 / Logikor LLC, headquartered in Cincinnati Ohio, announces its new name, Stridas LLC, effective October 1, 2020.

Stridas has evolved significantly from its formation in 2012 as the U.S.-based affiliate of Canadian logistics company Logikor Inc. The new "Stridas" name better reflects the company's evolution and future direction as an innovation leader in the logistics industry. As the name and tagline "Fueling Logistics Innovation" reflect, the company's emphasis is on leveraging people, processes and market-leading technologies to drive forward momentum for its customers.

The company is led by Chris Painter, a proven logistics executive with a track record of driving largescale growth. Before launching Logikor LLC, Painter led his prior company to more than $300M in sales and positioned it for later acquisition by a global, multi-billion-dollar logistics firm.

While many companies in the industry are cutting back, Stridas continues to invest heavily in people, infrastructure and technology as part of a five-year growth plan driving toward $200M in sales.

Consistent with its five-year plan, the company has added significant capabilities to its executive team. John Hutchinson joined the organization as Chief Operating Officer in 2019. Hutchinson brings a strong technology, solutions and leadership background from his previous roles as President of a digital consulting firm and as CEO of a global software company.

Matt Foley joins Stridas as Vice President of Brokerage Operations. Foley brings 15 years of experience in the freight industry, including several years leading a large freight brokerage operation, as well as being a strategic advisor to a venture capital group focused on funding emerging technologies in transportation.

"The freight industry is more dynamic than ever before, and technology is leading the coming disruption. Stridas is well-positioned to help our customers navigate and benefit from the technology revolution," said Painter. "Stridas is a catalyst for change, and our team is passionate about helping good people execute great transportation solutions."

About Us

Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, Stridas has a passion for helping good people execute great transportation solutions. Stridas partners with companies throughout North America and in a variety of industries to manage individual shipments and to design and operate entire freight networks.

Contacts

John Hutchinson

Work: 513.725.5678

publicrelations@stridas.com

SOURCE: Stridas

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/608610/Fast-Growing-Logistics-Company-Announces-New-Name-Enhanced-Technology-Capabilities-and-Additions-to-Executive-Leadership
TORONTO  Over the span of four days last week, Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced the provinces fall preparedness plan for dealing with COVID-19. This, as the province has seen a sharp spike in COVID-19 infections in September.

The six-part plan will expand COVID-19 testing and contact tracing, increase the provinces capacity to manage and prevent COVID-19 outbreaks, help clear some of the surgery and other medical procedure backlogs that have occurred, recruit and retain health care workers, and begin the largest flu immunization campaign the province has ever seen.

Its important that we prepare for any scenario in order to protect all of our citizens, especially our seniors and most vulnerable, said Ford. Our government is doing everything it can to defeat this deadly virus, including delivering an unprecedented flu shot campaign to maintain capacity in our hospitals.

The province has ordered 5.1 million flu vaccine doses, including 1.3 million high-dose vaccine dose for seniors. This vaccine drive will be combined with expanding access to flu shots in pharmacies.

Asymptomatic testing for COVID-19 in pharmacies was launched on September 25th as part of the fall preparedness plan. Sixty pharmacies in urban areas of the province like Toronto and Ottawa were the first to offer the testing. Another 24 pharmacies in south-western Ontario will offer the service this week.

There are no pharmacies in Eastern Ontario outside of Ottawa offering asymptomatic COVID-19 testing, but that will be changing soon.

Additional testing sites are being prioritized in regions that are experiencing the greatest number of COVID-19 cases, said Ministry of Health spokesperson Anna Miller. Recognizing that there is a need for more testing sites, we are actively working with our partners and encouraging other pharmacies across the province to roll out this testing.

The province is spending $1.07 billion to expand COVID-19 testing and assessment this fall, including increased supports for contact tracing and adding more testing centres. Current lab capacity allowing for up to approximately 40,000 COVID-19 tests to be processed per day, is to be expanded to 50,000 tests per day this fall.

In the Eastern Ontario Health Unit region, the new drive-thru testing centre in Limoges at the Calypso Water Park parking lot is part of that new program.

The government is also spending $741 million to try to clear the backlog of surgeries and other medical procedures due to previous lock-downs this spring caused by the pandemic.

Priority surgeries like cancer, cardiac, cataract and orthopaedic procedures will also get an additional $283.7 million in capacity increases. A centralized wait list is being created to handle the backlog and additional hospital beds are being added to supplement capacity. Additional personal protective equipment is also being purchased due to extra precautions dealing with medical procedures during the pandemic.

An additional $52.5 million is being spent to recruit and retain 3,700 more frontline health care workers and caregivers during the pandemic. This includes $14 million for personal support worker training.

Retaining and increasing the number of front-line health care workers in our continuous fight against COVID-19 is critical, said Health Minister Christine Elliott. We are taking further action to ensure our frontline health care workers are supported, and the health care sector has the staff to provide timely, high-quality care.
OTTAWA  His white hair is growing back in, although its a lot shorter now. But Jim Carrs voice is strong, and his delight in returning to the House of Commons is palpable.

The last time I saw the Winnipeg South Centre MP and prime ministers special representative for the Prairies was in early March, just before the pandemic shutdown.

We chatted as he left West Block and I told him to stop touching the scuzzy stair handrails.

The coronavirus was already sweeping the globe, elbowing Western alienation, train blockades and economic turmoil off the Liberal governments agenda.

Carr was due to have a stem cell transplant soon. If anyone should be worried about the viral soup that is Parliament Hill is, it was him.

On Wednesday night, almost six months later, we talked again, shortly after he spoke to the House of Commons for the first time in more than a year.

Carr addressed the Commons  virtually- from his home in Manitoba, telling his fellow MPs that circumstances and life had intervened, but he was back, feeling strong and ready to work.

He riffed on the throne speech, the COVID-19 pandemic, the West and democracy. The MPs in the chamber grinned and Conservative House leader Gerard Deltell welcomed his return.

The parliamentary community may be physically distanced, but who doesnt love a comeback story?

In the last weeks of the 2019 federal election campaign, Carr was experiencing flu-like symptoms, saying he felt tired and not particularly well.

On Oct. 21  election day  Carrs doctor phoned him after a routine blood test and told him to get to the emergency room at Winnipegs Health Sciences Centre. Carr waited until the ballots were counted. Hed won his seat, and headed first to a community centre to thank his campaign volunteers, then home to change into jeans before heading to the hospital that night.

The next day he was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a kind of blood cancer that affects plasma, and kidney failure. He called Prime Minister Justin Trudeau the next day, and then he went public.

Ive been in the maw of the health-care system ever since, he told me.

A former journalist and provincial politician, Carr was first elected as an MP in 2015. A long-time Liberal, he was named Trudeaus natural resources minister and then minister for international trade diversification in the first mandate, and looked set for another role in the new Liberal governments cabinet.

Instead, Carr was tasked to be Trudeaus eyes and ears on the Prairies, not a cabinet position although he remained invited to the cabinet committee on agenda, results and communications, which Trudeau chaired.

Chemotherapy and dialysis were his new normal. Carr was scheduled for an autologous stem-cell transplant in March, a procedure in which a persons own blood-forming stem cells are collected and the returned to the body after the cancer has been treated with aggressive chemotherapy.

Like so many hundreds of thousands of Canadians whose medical treatments and surgeries were shelved by the coronavirus pandemic, Carrs transplant was delayed. When it finally was rescheduled in May, he was hospitalized for four weeks. The pre-transplant chemotherapy was a gentle compared to the blast his body took to kill the myeloma. The chemo takes you to a point where your immune system is completely wiped out, he said. He later contracted C-difficile, a bacterial infection, and was hospitalized again for three days.

Carr has nothing but praise for the Winnipeg Health Sciences Centre and CancerCare Manitoba staff that treated him but he doesnt deny it was a difficult period, made easier by many supportive letters and messages, especially from his former cabinet colleague Dominic Leblanc.

Leblanc, Trudeaus intergovernmental affairs minister, went through two bouts of cancer himself. First diagnosed in 2017 with leukemia and treated with IV chemo-immunotherapy, Leblanc was in remission when he was diagnosed in April 2019 with non-Hodgkins lymphoma, and underwent a stem-cell transplant.

Dominic was a wonderful friend and a tower of strength for me, said Carr. Our cancers were different, but our transplants were similar.

Leblanc was in touch with him almost every day, said Carr. He said to me, It all comes back, it all comes back, it all comes back.

And sure enough, its all coming back.

Like a child does, Carr is now going through a full regime of revaccinations for everything from mumps and measles to chickenpox.

A classical oboist, he listened to Beethoven, Mozart, Bach and Stravinsky, read deeply, and treasured time with family and friends on his back deck through the past few months. Theres been a baby boom in the Carr family. His second grandchild, Michelle Beth, was born Wednesday.

And the Manitoba MP has been gradually getting back to work. He describes himself as a creature of radio and the days when people used the phone more, so despite the pandemic, he has been making physically distanced connections that feel real, working the phones, talking to Western business and labour leaders, doing a job the prime minister gave him thats bringing him new joy.

This week in Parliament saw a couple of high-profile returns: Conservative Leader Erin OToole and Bloc Quebecois Leader Yves-Francois Blanchet took their Commons seats after two weeks of self-isolation following COVID-19 diagnoses for them and their spouses. Still, Carrs return marked a recovery of a different kind.

Theres a humility in recovering from cancer, he said. You have a far broader scope of view on morality, on longevity, on time spent. He feels, he said, blessed in so many ways.

Next week he turns 69, and feels like I have a lot of runway ahead of me.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 15:50:50|Editor: huaxia

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China's ambitious target for carbon neutrality before 2060 is a game changer and could help fulfill the promise of the Paris Agreement, said a World Wildlife Fund (WWF) International official. China aims to have CO2 emissions peak before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2060, a move expected to accelerate the world's transition to green and low-carbon development. "We need to have China with this strong announcement. It is good to have China talking with the EU (European Union) and Canada trying to move this agenda forward," Manuel Pulgar-Vidal, leader of WWF global climate and energy practice, told Xinhua in a recent interview. Pulgar-Vidal, former Peruvian environment minister, said China's commitment sends a strong message and could fill the void that the United States is leaving by withdrawing from the 2015 Paris Agreement, the landmark deal to cut emissions of planet-warming gases.
Whats left out is as interesting as whats put into San Franciscos new voter information pamphlet, which has arrived in mailboxes in advance of the start of mail voting next week for the Nov. 3 election.

While the pamphlet contains the usual information on the citys 13 ballot measures and candidates for state, local and federal offices, there are some notable omissions.

Neither Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi nor Shahid Buttar, the Democratic attorney who is challenging her, filed the voluntary candidate statement in their congressional race. Neither did Democratic state Sen. Scott Wiener, although his opponent, Democrat Jackie Fielder, is in the voter guide.

And plenty of San Francisco voters found that their pamphlets didnt contain any statements from the candidates in the six Board of Supervisors races on the ballot.

The answer to that one is easy, said John Arntz, San Franciscos election director.

If people dont live in an odd-numbered supervisoral district, their (voter pamphlets) wont include statements for supervisors, he said in an email Thursday.

In two years, when the even-numbered districts are on the ballot, residents of the other districts will be left out.

Pelosis omission is also simple to understand.

We print the statements that are submitted, and not all candidates submit statements, Arntz said. Pelosi did not submit a statement before the filing deadline.

Pelosi plans a letter to each registered voter, respectfully requesting their vote, said Jorge Aguilar with the congresswomans campaign. Her letter is set to arrive when absentee ballots do at voters homes next week.

Buttars reason amounts to a protest. Arguing that the 250-word limit for the paid ballot statement wasnt enough for a little-known candidate running against a nationally known incumbent, he wanted his ballot statement to be blank, symbolic of the chilling effect when diverse voices are edited out of the media and political debate process, a campaign spokeswoman said.

For his part, Wiener was snagged by the states rules for candidate statements.

Our campaign did not submit a candidate statement because we did not accept the states voluntary expenditure limit required, said Jack Persons, Wieners campaign manager.

By law, state candidates can file a statement only if they agree to follow state spending limits, which range from $15.5 million for a candidate for governor down to $1.08 million for someone running for Assembly.

The state Senate spending limit tops out at $1.39 million, an amount Wiener has already exceeded.

Fielder, who had spent $339,149 on her campaign as of Sept. 19, is well below that limit, which is why her statement is in the voter guide.

While the city doesnt charge most local candidates for the statements, candidates for state and federal offices have to write a check. Its $2,389 for candidates in Pelosis district and $2,710 in the state Senate race.

John Wildermuth is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jwildermuth@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @jfwildermut
NEW HAVEN  When school doors open in November, not every student will be sitting in a classroom.

For months, city officials have known that about 45 percent of the approximately 21,000 students in the public school system have opted to learn remotely this year because of the pandemic, which can spread in indoor spaces where people are in close proximity.

Schools currently are not open to students because of a Board of Education vote to keep learning virtual through the first marking period. But when doors do open, working parents may need child care for their younger students.

We have to make sure those kids have the support they need, said Mayor Justin Elicker.

A variety of community organizations have talked for weeks to develop a network of learning hubs  in-person centers throughout the city where students can attend school virtually under adult supervision.

Seth Poole, system of care director for the Clifford Beers Clinic, said the clinic is acting as a service delivery organization, helping to centralize services. Various groups and agencies  such as the citys Youth and Recreation Department, the Boys & Girls Club of Greater New Haven, the Central Connecticut Coast YMCA and various churches  have offered space and resources to offer about 10 seats per location for families who otherwise struggle to find child care or connect to virtual learning.

Felicia Shashinka, community recreation coordinator for the Youth and Recreation Department, will supervise a learning hub at the Coogan Pavilion Learning Hub in Edgewood Park that opens Monday. The pavilion includes several workstations, separated by several feet, and an isolation room where someone can remain separate from others if they begin to show COVID symptoms before being picked up.

Youth and Recreation Director Gwendolyn Busch Williams said the learning hubs will place an emphasis on students finishing their academic work before giving them an opportunity for recreation. Behind the pavilion in Edgewood Park is a skate park and green space.

Were going to take advantage of the nature behind us, she said.

The Rev. Steven Cousin of Bethel AME Church said clergy in the city also are opening some churches for learning hubs.

Were just really trying to create a safe learning environment where theyre able to do remote learning so they have safe, reliable, fast internet and bring about that social interaction, although limited, he said. We want to give children a chance just to socially interact and also bring in other activities because we know its difficult to stare at a screen for six hours.

The hubs are of no cost to families. Families must fill out an application and seats will be filled first based on need.

brian.zahn@hearstmediact.com
"Our annual conference brings together accomplished scholars and aspiring students who explore how to improve teaching and learning in the online classroom," said Dr. Craig Swenson, President of Ashford University and a featured conference keynote speaker. "A wide array of presentations will provoke and inspire reflection, discussion, and action."

This year, TLC will explore the ongoing discussion of the value of traditional liberal arts versus career-focused curricula, with this question in mind: "Must education in the 21st century take an either/or approach to what will prepare students to be ethical and productive contributors to society?" By fostering interdisciplinary dialogues that result in actionable ideas, TLC's panel sessions will examine how merging the learning experience with real-world professional issues can address this question.

Conference panel session tracks include:

Fostering Professional Self-Advocacy: How to Help Students Communicate Soft and Hard Skills to Employers

Beyond the Discussion Forum: Giving the Modern Student Timeless Communication Skills

Course Design with Career in Mind: Building Career Competencies into Coursework and Course Materials

From Theory to Practice: Helping Faculty Incorporate Career Readiness into any Classroom

The Resilient Professor: Approaches to Overcoming Online Teaching Burnout

Click here for detailed descriptions for each track.

This year's TLC will feature keynote speakers who are prominent scholars, educators, business leaders, and advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion in education and career readiness curriculum. Each will offer valuable insights and ideas on diversity, innovation, and student-centered learning:

Larry Roberston  Award-winning author, strategist, and innovation advisor at Lighthouse Consulting

Award-winning author, strategist, and innovation advisor at Lighthouse Consulting Dr. Craig D. Swenson  Ashford University President

 President Dr. Warren Hayman  Award-winning scholar, teacher, activist, and the coordinator of the Urban Education Leadership Doctoral Program at Morgan State University

 Award-winning scholar, teacher, activist, and the coordinator of the Urban Education Leadership Doctoral Program at Kamaria Massey  Doctoral Student at Morgan State University

 Doctoral Student at Dr. Michael Burns  Director of Career Readiness, Department of Communication Studies at Texas State University in San Marcos

Live sessions will occur 9 AM -- 2 PM PT on each day of the virtual conference, which is free and open to the public. Visit the TLC registration webpage to register, and the conference website to access session information and links.

About Ashford University

Ashford University is a recognized leader and innovator in distance learning and online education. Ashford is designed to meet the needs of working students, offering programs most often sought by those whose primary educational goals relate to developing professional and career-relevant competencies. Flexible schedules, innovative delivery, and accessible academic support tools help working students balance busy lives with academic studies. Ashford offers associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs. For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu, www.facebook.com/ashforduniversity, or www.twitter.com/AshfordU.

Ashford Media Contact: Pat Ogden

[email protected]

SOURCE Ashford University

Related Links

http://www.ashford.edu


(Natural News) In the rush to create a vaccine for covid-19, scientists will need at least 500,000 dead sharks over the next six months. The sharks will be slaughtered to provide vaccine makers with an oil called squalene. The squalene is a byproduct produced in the liver of sharks. Smaller amounts of squalene can be found in olive oil, palm oil, wheat-germ oil, amaranth oil and rice bran oil, but these arent reliable sources for wide scale vaccine production.

In vaccine science, squalene is combined with surfactant chemicals to create an adjuvant which is used to augment an immune response in vaccine recipients. Based on its chemical properties, squalene is an emollient, allowing for vaccine antigens and other chemicals to more readily absorb deep into tissues and cells.

The more potent an adjuvant is, the greater the chances that the vaccine antigen (attenuated virus) penetrates the immune system, generating an antibody response in serum. As the potency of the adjuvant is increased, so is the risk of vaccine injury. As the potency of the adjuvant is decreased, the effectiveness of the vaccine wanes, requiring more doses to simulate an immune response.

Moreover, the human immune system is prone to produce antibodies to squalene  an under-studied autoimmune effect that could have lasting effects on humans. Even though squalene is a cleaner adjuvant than aluminum salts, it is part of scientific process that bypasses the innate immune system, including surveillance proteins, surveillance microbes, mucous membranes, etc.

As vaccine dependency increases, shark populations suffer

The mass slaughter of sharks is nothing new; certain types of influenza and malaria vaccines already depend upon squalene harvesting from sharks. As public health officials plan for wide-scale vaccination worldwide, the demand for dead sharks will grow exponentially.

The new covid-19 vaccines will not be effective after the first dose. The first experimental protocol requires two doses of the vaccine to simulate any sort of antibody response in humans. As this antibody response wanes, more doses will be needed in order to augment an immune response in humans. Some clinical trials suggest that five to six doses will be needed to keep human antibody levels up. This level of vaccine dependence could drastically affect the shark population.

Conservationist group, Shark Allies estimates that 250,000 sharks will need to be slaughtered in order for one vaccine dose to be distributed to the worlds population. If multiple doses are required, as evidenced by waning antibody responses in clinical trials, then millions of sharks would need to be slaughtered over the next three years.

Shark Allies founder Stefanie Brendl has launched a petition, demanding an end to the use of squalene in vaccines. She wrote: Harvesting something from a wild animal is never going to be sustainable, especially if its a top predator that doesnt reproduce in huge numbers. Theres so many unknowns of how big and how long this pandemic might go on, and then how many versions of it we have to go through, that if we continue using sharks, the numbers of sharks taken for this product could be really high, year after year after year.

Vaccine production could ultimately endanger shark populations, only to make human immune systems dependent on vaccine science that wanes over time and puts additional pressure on the oceanic ecosystem.

For more on the science behind biologics visit Vaccines.news.

Sources include:

GreatGameIndia.com

NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov

NaturalNews.com

Matyas G, Rao M, Pittman P, Burge R, Robbins I, Wassef N et al. Detection of antibodies to squalene III. Naturally occurring antibodies to squalene in humans and mice. JIM 286 (2004) 47-67
(Natural News) A New Jersey congressman who is up for reelection has been coming under fire for the part he played in lobbying against the creation of a national sex offender registry.

Last month, the Washington Free Beacon reported on New Jersey Democrat Representative Tom Malinowskis role as a top lobbyist for Human Rights Watch when they were fighting against the 2006 Omnibus Crime Bill, which enhanced the national sex offender registry.

The topic came up in a recent debate against his Republican opponent, Tom Kean, Jr, who is fighting against him for the states District 7 seat. It was also the subject of a campaign ad pointing out how Malinowski tried to make it easier for predators to hide in the shadows. The ad mentioned that Malinowskis two decades in Washington made him dangerously radical.

The Congressional Record shows that Human Rights Watch urged Congress to vote against the crime bill. One of the issues they cited were provisions that required sex offenders to be registered for life. Another aspect they found fault with was the imposition of mandatory minimum sentences as well as expanding the federal death penalty.

According to the group, there was no legitimate community safety justification for the provisions in this legislation that require offenders to register for the rest of their lives, regardless of whether they have lived offense free for decades.

They added that these requirements could open people up to retaliation and discrimination and would make it hard for them to get jobs and housing. Human Rights Watch issued a report the following year stating that sex offender laws may do more harm than good.

The group wrote: Unfettered public access to online sex-offender registries with no need-to-know restrictions exposes former offenders to the risk that individuals will act on this information in irresponsible and even unlawful ways, adding that there was not a lot of evidence that community notification can prevent sexual violence.

Malinowski says he didnt participate, even though his name was on the report

Malinowski has tried to distance himself from the matter, claiming that his name appeared on the report as a formality and that he played no role in the lobbying. Former Assistant U.S. Attorney General Jennifer Daskal, who worked with him at Human Rights Watch, has said that she was the one who handled the crime bill and that he worked on foreign policy issues, saying It was a long time ago, but I have no recollection of him being involved.

However, as the groups Washington director and chief advocate, many are finding that claim hard to believe.

Kean said: He was the top lobbyist for the organization, and they advocate against protecting children, so either he was weak (or) he didnt try to stop it.

The real question is how in the world can you work for an organization that advocated against protecting children, he added.

Kean asked why Malinowski didnt stop the group from pursuing this, adding that the organization recommended endangering children.

Not surprisingly, Malinowski has earned the endorsement of Democratic Presidential Nominee Joe Biden, who praised him for his work on healthcare and taxes. In response, Malinowski said he was humbled by the endorsement. He served with Biden during the Obama administration as the Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor.

Malinowski was the first among the New Jersey congressional delegation to endorse Biden in the Democratic Primary.

Sources for this article include:

NRCC.org

Patch.com

NewJerseyGlobe.com
Revolving blades were a lifelong fascination for Glid Doman. He started out designing, and then manufacturing, pioneering helicopters and after that, moved on to another then-new field: air-driven turbines for generating electricity. As tireless as the blades he designed, Doman was still working well into his 90s.

Glidden Sweet Doman was born in western New York in 1921. His father and uncle set up the first electrical system for their small town, and his brother designed engines for Franklin automobiles and the first Sikorski helicopters. In his teens, Doman built motorized go-carts, and a streamlined Soapbox Derby racer, winning a regional race in Syracuse when he was 15.

After graduating from the University of Michigan, he attended a lecture by Igor Sikorsky that sparked an interest in helicopters  still a very new invention  and their rotor blades, which, back then, were suffering quickly from fatigue.

In 1943, Doman went to work for Sikorsky in Bridgeport, specializing in making blades strong, long-lasting, yet light and flexible. It was during World War II, and his contributions were so vital that Igor Sikorsky himself appealed to the draft board to keep him on the test program.

In 1945, he left Sikorski to found Doman Helicopters Inc., producing small helicopters and headquartered for many years at Danbury Airport. There he developed innovations years earlier than larger competitors; some of them are now standard in todays helicopter technology.

The driving force behind Doman engineering was sharp focus on understanding what the helicopter and especially its blades and rotor hub were doing, said Susan Orred in a 2013 profile of Doman. The resulting insights produced the firms hallmark trait - aeronautic design with elegant simplicity.

In the 1950s, the company produced three LZ-5 helicopters, which employed his rotor designs and other innovations. They could carry six passengers plus a pilot and copilot, and received both military and commercial certification.

He hoped to gain military contracts, and two LZ-5s were sold to the Army. However, the military never bought any more. Lack of government contracts spelled doom for the company, which had as many as 130 employees. It moved to Pennsylvania in 1965 and closed in 1969, The only remaining LZ-5 is at the New England Air Museum at Bradley Airport in Windsor Locks, along with a smaller Doman R-6 helicopter.

Doman spent several years with Boeing, designing rotors for giant heavy-lift helicopters. He then turned to a new career as chief systems engineer of the wind energy program at Hamilton Standard, developing huge wind turbines, which share some blade technology with helicopters. In 2003, he formed Gamma Ventures Inc. to market production rights for the turbines he helped design in Italy.

Doman had lived in Ridgefield from 1958 to 1967  his wife, Joan, who died in 2003, was a teacher at RHS. He spent his last 35 years in Granby, active into his 90s. He died in 2016 at 95.

Jack Sanders
Cotton futures traded weak at Rs 18,170 per bale on September 30.

Mohit Vyas, Analyst at Kotak Securities, said, Recovery in ICE Cotton futures from lower levels, procurement by Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) from today (October 1) and improved demand from millers and ginners have supported cotton prices.

The prospect of strong export demand this season and crop loss concerns in major cotton-producing states have lifted sentiments in domestic cotton prices.

According to government notification, CCI is likely to commence FAQ Cotton procurement from October 1 at the minimum support price.

In the futures market, cotton for October delivery touched an intraday high of Rs 18,230 and a low of Rs 18,170 per bale on the Multi-Commodity Exchange (MCX). So far in the current series, the commodity has touched a low of Rs 16,060 and a high of Rs 18,260.

Cotton futures for October delivery slipped Rs 40, or 0.22 percent, to Rs 18,170 per bale at 15:12 hours IST on a business turnover of 788 lots. The same for November delivery gained Rs 30, or 0.17 percent, to Rs 18,210 per bale on a business turnover of 414 lots.

The value of October and Novembers contracts traded so far is Rs 4.77 crore and Rs 0.63 crore, respectively.

Kotak Securities expect cotton to consolidate near the current range in coming sessions. US Department of Agriculture will release weekly export number in the evening, which will be crucial for deciding the course of cotton future prices in the international market.
BERLIN - Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who is recovering in Germany after being poisoned in Russia, said in comments published Thursday that only Russian President Vladimir Putin could have been behind the attack against him with a Soviet-era nerve agent.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 1/10/2020 (478 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

In this photo taken from a video published by Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny on his instagram account, Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny walks down stairs in a hospital in Berlin, Germany, Saturday, Sept. 19, 2020. The German hospital treating Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny for poisoning says his condition improved enough for him to be released from the facility. The Charite hospital in Berlin said Wednesday Sept. 23, 2020 that after 32 days in care, Navalny's condition "improved sufficiently for him to be discharged from acute inpatient care." (Navalny Instagram via AP)

BERLIN - Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who is recovering in Germany after being poisoned in Russia, said in comments published Thursday that only Russian President Vladimir Putin could have been behind the attack against him with a Soviet-era nerve agent.

Navalny's supporters have frequently maintained that the poisoning could have only been ordered at the top level, although the Kremlin has repeatedly dismissed the allegation. German officials have said labs found traces of a chemical agent from the Novichok family in the Russian politician's system.

A handout photo published by Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny on his instagram account on Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2020. German doctors say Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny released from hospital after poisoning treatment. Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny has been released from a Berlin hospital after more than a month's treatment for poisoning, with doctors now believing that a Aucomplete recoveryAu from the nerve agent is possible, the facility said Wednesday Sept. 23. (Navalny instagram via AP)

Navalny, a corruption investigator who is Putins fiercest critic, was flown to Germany two days after falling ill on Aug. 20 on a domestic flight in Russia. He spent 32 days in the hospital, 24 of them in intensive care, before doctors deemed his condition sufficiently improved for him to be discharged.

He has posted frequent comments online as his recovery has progressed, but in his first interview since the attack, he told Germany's Der Spiegel, I assert Putin was behind the crime, according to an English-language copy of his comments the magazine published online.

I have no other explanation for what happened," Navalny, 44, said.

He asserted that his poisoning with a Novichok nerve agent only could have been ordered by the heads of Russia's military, domestic, or foreign intelligence agencies, officials who cannot make a decision like that without being instructed by Putin. They report to him."

The Kremlin on Thursday said that such accusations against the Russian president are absolutely groundless and unacceptable.

Some of these statements in the mentioned publication we consider offensive, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

Peskov charged that there was information that specialists from the CIA were working with Navalny these days and giving him instructions.

There is information that these instructors are working with him these days, Peskov said. Instructions the patient is receiving are obvious. We have seen such lines of behaviour more than once.

Russia's United Nations ambassador Vassily Nebenzia told reporters that Navalny's claim is inherently insulting.

In response to Peskov's comments, Navalny on Thursday announced that he would sue the Kremlin spokesman and demanded that the alleged evidence of him working with the CIA be made public.

If the authorities, on behalf of which Peskov speaks, have evidence of the nonsense he is talking about, then it's a matter of Russias state security, and I demand that this evidence be published," Navalny said in his blog.

Before he was transferred to Berlin for treatment, Navalny spent two days in a coma in a hospital in the Siberian city of Omsk, where Russian doctors said they found no trace of any poisoning.

German chemical weapons experts determined that he was poisoned with the Soviet-era Novichok, the class of nerve agent that Britain said was used in a 2018 attack on former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter in Salisbury, England. Labs in France and Sweden corroborated the German findings.

Navalny told Der Spiegel that when he first fell ill on the plane he was taking from Siberia to Moscow, he was sure he was dying as he collapsed to the floor.

Then I hear voices growing ever quieter, and a woman calling: Dont leave us! Dont leave us! Then its over. I know Im dead, he said in the interview. Only later would it turn out that I was wrong.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel called the poisoning an attempted murder and she and other world leaders have demanded that Russia fully investigate the case.

Merkel had personally offered Germany's assistance in treating Navalny, and the politician said even though he had no real previous contacts with the country, Germany has become a special country for me. He said he had rented an apartment in Berlin to use as he recovers.

Merkel visited him in the hospital before he was released, which Navalny said was totally unexpected, but a pleasant surprise.

We didnt discuss anything secret or sensational. The visit was a gesture, he said. I was impressed by how precisely she knows Russia and my case," adding: She knows some of the details better than I do.

And when you talk to her, you understand why she has been at the top in Germany for so long, Navalny said of Merkel. "I thanked her for her efforts and she said: I only did my duty.

Russia has bristled at demands for an investigation, saying that Germany needs to share medical data in the case or compare notes with Russian doctors. Germany has noted that Russian doctors have their own samples from Navalny since he was in their care for 48 hours.

The Hague-based Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons has collected independent samples from Navalny for testing, but results haven't yet been announced.

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Navalny scoffed at the Russian demands for tests and blood samples, saying there should still be plenty of my blood in Omsk.

Theyre naturally not interested in dealing with the matter as such. All they care about is painting the German government in the worst possible light, he told Spiegel. "The next thing theyll do surely is accuse Angela Merkel of having personally poisoned me with Novichok.

The magazine described Navalny as joking and alert in the interview, but said his hands shook so much it was difficult for him to drink from a bottle of water. He also reiterated what his team has previously said  that he planned to return to Russia when he was able to do so.

Not going back would mean that Putin has won and achieved his goal, and my job now is to remain the guy who isnt afraid, Navalny said. And Im not afraid! When my hands shake, its not from fear - its from this stuff. I would not give Putin the gift of not returning to Russia.

___

Litvinova reported from Moscow
New Delhi, Oct 1 : The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) on Thursday expressed concern over the abduction and sexual assault of two minor girls in Rajasthan's Baran district.

It took suo moto cognizance of media reports of sexual crimes against the two minors in Baran.

"Prima facie, the case seems to be a violation of provisions of POCSO Act, hence, a detailed report along with the necessary information or documents has been sought from SP, Baran within 48 hours," the Commission said in statement.

In addition to this, the Commission took cognizance of sexual crimes against a 14-month-old girl and a four-year-old minor in Alwar district of Rajasthan and asked for the action taken reports in these cases from the Superintendent of Police in Alwar within seven days.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Assemblymember Gipson on the Kentucky Grand Jury Findings in the Murder of Breonna Taylor

Assemblymember Mike A. Gipson, chair of the California Assembly Democratic Caucus and Chair of the Assembly Select Committee on Police Reform responds to the Kentucky Grand Jury Findings in the murder of Breonna Taylor.

Todays announcement that Louisville, Kentucky Officer Brett Hankison was not charged in the wrongful death of Breonna Taylor, 26, but for wonton endangerment in the 1st degree was the wrong decision by the Grand Jury. Additionally, the other two officers involved were not charged at all.

In the very least, an indictment for manslaughter would have been more appropriate than wonton endangerment which translates into firing haphazardly without a clear path. Afterall, an innocent life was taken.

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Although the civil lawsuit awarded the family with $12 million, it doesnt address the failure of law enforcement. Additionally, if this problem is not addressed at the root, more innocent people will die at the hands of law enforcement; settlements will continue to drain cities and the cycle will continue with no real change. This has to stop.

The Grand Jury decision speaks to the ongoing lack of value of Black lives. Not speaking up for this injustice is the same as being complicit with their decision.
Celebrity couple Chrissy Teigen and John Legend expressed "deep pain" as they announced that they lost their child due to a miscarriage.

Teigen revealed the news through an Instagram post where she said that they are still in shock as it is something that they have never felt before and never expected to feel.

The post by Teigen came with several photos in black and white, showing her devastation upon losing their child. One of the photos even showed the model crying in the hospital bed.

The child was supposed to be the third child of the couple, which they only revealed to be expecting in mid-August.

'Baby Jack'

According to E!Online, Teigen stated that she and her husband were planning to name the baby 'Jack'. She also explained that in the past they always decided their baby names until the last moment before they leave the hospital after giving birth.

However, she shared that in Baby Jack's case, they have already started to call him the name while still inside the womb.

In her emotional post, Teigen also apologized to their little angel for the complications that he faced during his short life.

"We will always love you," the grieving mother wrote.

Legend also retweeted the post from Teigen, expressing his love for his lost baby.

Teigen also expressed how unreal it felt that they had to drive home from the hospital with no baby to bring home.

Read also: How Paris Hilton Fooled the United States as a Fake Dumb Blonde

Teigen's pregnancy has been well documented by the model, who is also a TV presenter on her social media accounts.

On Sunday, Teigen was brought to the hospital due to excessive bleeding, but she immediately updated her fans that she and her baby were both safe and healthy.

However, in her most recent post, she explained that the baby was not supplied with the fluids that it needed to survive since they were unable to stop the bleeding. Thus leading to the baby's death.

Teigen also took it to social media to thank everyone who offered their prayers for her and her baby, not forgetting to express her gratitude for the life that she is enjoying with her family.

Teigen thanked her followers for their "positive energy, thoughts and prayers" and expressed gratitude for the "amazing" life she enjoyed with her family.

Huge virtual support

After the news about the baby's death broke out, messages of condolences and support flooded the social media paged of the couple. Many of the supporters praised how the couple stayed strong despite the adversities and shared their own experiences of loss.

Meanwhile, the couple also received messages from fellow celebrities. Kim Kardashian West sent them a message of love and support, saying that they are always there for the couple.

Among the other celebrities who sent messages to Teigen and Legend were Viola Davis, who sent what she referred to was a "big virtual hug of love"; and Paris Hilton who said that she was sorry for the couple's loss, BBC reported.

Teigen and Legend are parents to two other children.



Related article: Mariah Carey Reveals She Was Pimped Out by Older Sister When She Was 12 in New Memoir

@ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
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A brave young woman has revealed how her life changed overnight following an attempt to take her own life after she was raped.

Sarah Marino, 22, from Delaware, Ohio, attempted suicide by jumping off the roof of a parking garage on August 10, 2017, when she was 19-years-old, following a string of undiagnosed and untreated mental health disorders.

While the part-time student at Ohio State University survived the incident, she was left with a traumatic brain injury, an incomplete spinal cord injury, and a broken back, while her legs, feet, and pelvis were so badly damaged that she required a number of intensive surgeries.

Recovery: Rape victim Sarah Marino, 22, was left with horrific injuries after she tried to take her own life by jumping off the roof of a parking garage, one year after she was assaulted

Changes: The Delaware native was left with a traumatic brain injury, an incomplete spinal cord injury, and a broken back, while her legs, feet, and pelvis were also badly damaged

Shocking: Sarah's suicide attempt came after years of silent mental health struggles, and she is now speaking out about her experience to raise awareness about the conditions

Speaking to Jam Press, Sarah explained, 'I jumped off the top of the parking garage on Ohio State's campus.

'I had a long history of undiagnosed and untreated major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.'

Sarah says her PTSD stemmed from being raped the year before, when she was 18 and noted that this was not her first suicide attempt.

'In the months leading up to my suicide, I just felt trapped. Trapped in my head, with my intrusive thoughts. I started self-medicating with marijuana, which my parents found out about, adding tension to an already tense home life. At the point I just felt like a burden, I felt like I was letting everyone down.

'I felt I was letting myself down. I was always a good student and a hard worker but I stopped going to classes and to my two jobs. I was withdrawing and isolating myself while repressing all the emotions.

'People were seeming to take a negative view of this behavior which I took personally. I didn't know how to make things better. I felt worthless. I felt like I couldn't be fixed.'

'I felt like I was spiraling downward and things were only going to get worse and I was only going to hurt more people. I just wanted out and suicide seemed like the only option.'

Memories: The Ohio State University student (pictured before her injuries) said that she spent months 'leading up to my suicide' feeling 'trapped'

Hiding: Sarah says that she hid her struggles because she worried that people were 'taking a negative view' of her behavior

Reminder: Following the heartbreaking incident, Sarah spent six weeks in Ohio State's hospital before returning home, and she is still suffering with the injuries more than one year later

Step by step: Sarah had to re-learn how to do everything, from brushing her teeth to walking

Following the heartbreaking incident, Sarah spent six weeks in Ohio State's hospital before returning home.

'I spent the first week in the SICU going in and out of surgery and being heavily medicated and monitored,' she recalled.

'I don't remember too much about that. I then spent a couple of weeks on the brain and spine floor. Still receiving surgeries, but beginning to start very basic therapy like sitting up to brush my teeth; something I could barely do without passing out or falling over.

'At this point, I had no movement below my hips. My trunk support was very weak and obviously being fresh from back surgeries made things like sitting up extremely difficult. I then spent three weeks at Dodd Hall at OSU, a rehabilitation hospital.'

While at Dodd, Sarah undertook a number of different activities such as speech therapy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy to help improve her condition and prepare her for using a wheelchair.

'I did things like learning how to get dressed, shower, cook, get into cars, clean, and other daily tasks. Physical therapy was to see how much response my body was giving, and work with what is working.

'Exercises and muscle strengthening were a big part of PT. By the time I left Dodd, I could almost kick a balloon off a cone about a foot in front of me.'

Agony: Sarah says her PTSD stemmed from being raped the year before her suicide attempt, when she was 18 and she admitted that the accident was not the first time she tried kill herself

Pain: 'I spent the first week in the SICU going in and out of surgery and being heavily medicated and monitored,' Sarah, whose X-rays are pictured, recalled

Walk on: Sarah has undergone extensive physical therapy, however she is still limited in her mobility as a result of her injuries

Upset: Sarah said she was initially unaware of the extensive damage caused by her spinal cord injury and did not know how serious it was

'After I left I started doing outpatient occupational therapy and physical therapy to keep building upon the function that I did have and to get more used to living life in a wheelchair in the community and at home.'

Sarah said she was initially unaware of the extensive damage caused by her spinal cord injury and did not know how serious it was.

'I had a "take it day by day" mentality because things would literally change by the day. At first, I just began adjusting to my new life and I didn't really have the time or mental capacity to take everything in and grieve at that point.'

The student now takes regular medications for nerve pain and general pain, and now has a spinal cord stimulator implanted in her back to help with the pain. She also takes medications for depression and anxiety.

'I still go to physical therapy but I am much more limited now in my daily life. My morning routine takes much longer, as it's much harder to move and get around so things like brushing teeth, or getting breakfast take a lot longer.'

While Sarah's mom now acts as her caretaker when at home, the student admits that her house isn't entirely practical for her needs.

'My house isn't exactly accessible so I need my mom to help me go upstairs to shower, which I use a shower chair to take showers, or to prep big meals, as some of the dishes are hard to reach.'

New normal: 'I still go to physical therapy but I am much more limited now in my daily life. My morning routine takes much longer, as it's much harder to move and get around,' she said

Looking ahead: The student now takes regular medications for nerve pain and general pain, and now has a spinal cord stimulator implanted in her back to help with the pain

Family support: Sarah's mother now has to act as her full-time carer

Struggles: The college student, pictured recently, says before her injury she was a happy-go-lucky person who didn't take things too seriously and would mask her mental health issues

'I've moved my room a bit around the first floor of my house, but in the beginning, my mom had to even carry me to the bathroom. Now it is a little easier to access for me, though falls still happen when I have to stand to wash my hands. I am unable to sit up for long periods of time due to pain, so many things I used to do are limited.'

'Having long nights at the college bar, something I used to do, is just not quite feasible. Exercise classes are no longer an option, though there are modified exercises I do on my own for PT. I used to be a bit of a runner, not anymore.'

Despite this, brave Sarah has returned to her studies but admits this is still a challenge in itself, with pain still being her biggest limiting factor.

The student says before her injury she was a happy-go-lucky type of person who wouldn't take things too seriously and would often mask her mental health issues.

'I think I wanted people to think I had it all together when I didn't at all. I didn't want people to think I was too serious or too sad or too depressed to be around. Now I'm a lot more open about my life. I will talk about the good and the bad. I can see this bigger picture a little bit better now and feel more in touch with myself and my emotions.'

Sarah has been documenting her recovery progress on Instagram, @smarino22, where she regularly shares photos from her daily life.

The student says she has received amazing and positive responses from her followers, many of whom have proven to be a great source of comfort through her journey.

Mask: 'I think I wanted people to think I had it all together when I didn't at all. I didn't want people to think I was too serious or too sad or too depressed to be around,' she said

Hopeful: Sarah, who is pictured in the green tank before her injury, says she wants others to become more aware about mental health care

Message: 'I think it's important for others to know that it's okay to have those feelings, and it's okay to seek out professional mental health services,' she said

Message: Sarah has been documenting her recovery progress on Instagram, @smarino22, where she regularly shares photos from her daily life

'I've actually had some very amazing positive responses to my posts. It is very uplifting to hear people being inspired by me. It also has been great to connect me to the disabled community, where I have met so many inspiring and amazing individuals. It is really comforting just to see people going through the same thing as you and whom you can connect on that level.'

The young woman says that receiving more support, specifically directed towards breaking the stigma of mental health would have helped her before her suicide attempt.

'I had so much internalized shame for feeling the way I did, I thought I was broken. I know now that I was just reacting in a human way towards external events.'

'I think it's important for others to know that it's okay to have those feelings, and it's okay to seek out professional mental health services, it doesn't mean you're unfixable.'

For anyone suffering from mental health issues or for those who may be thinking about taking their own life, Sarah says, 'Do not worry about other people who do not have your best intentions at heart. Focus on yourself and recognize the signs and symptoms and what makes you feel bad.

'Do not be afraid to seek professional treatment if you have access to it. I still talk to my counselor once a week and it is very helpful.'

'Do not worry about the stigma, because that only further reinforces it. Also, do not be afraid to open up to people you trust if you have them in your life. Repressing emotions is not good for you and they will show back up later even stronger. If talking isn't your thing try journaling. It sounds simple but sometimes just straightening out your thoughts on paper in front of you can help process things.'
The charitable arm of the gas company blamed for a series of natural gas explosions and fires in Massachusetts two years ago said it will provide $10 million to support nonprofits in the three communities affected by the disaster.

The NiSource Charitable Foundation, supported by NiSource, the parent company of Columbia Gas of Massachusetts, said the money would be spread over five years.

The $10 million will be used to provide grants supporting basic needs including food, shelter and heating assistance; economic and job development; emergency assistance and disaster preparedness; STEM education; and environmental stewardship.

Grant applications in amounts up to $250,000 will be accepted until Dec. 4, and recipients will be notified in March.

The explosions in Lawrence, Andover and North Andover in September 2018 killed one person, injured almost two dozen and damaged more than 100 buildings. Federal investigators blamed the explosions on overpressurized gas lines.

Even though NiSource may not be operating in Massachusetts in the future, it is still important to us to continue to stand with and support the communities of Andover, Lawrence, and North Andover. Joe Hamrock, CEO and President of NiSource, said in a statement.

The company has already agreed to pay a $143 million settlement stemming from a class-action lawsuit, a $53 million federal fine, and $56 million settlement with the state. Also, Columbia Gas has agreed to cease doing business in the state as of Nov. 1 and transfer its assets to another utility, Eversource.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Massachusetts
The leaders of Congress party from asked the (CBI) to appeal against special court's verdict in the demolition case in which it acquitted all the accused in the case.

Opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala has said that the court's verdict in the demolition case is a "severe blow to the secular base of the nation".

"The Supreme Court has ruled that the demolition of the was a criminal offense and violation of law and order. Yet the prosecution's failure to prove it is a serious lapse. The verdict is as tragic as the demolition of the mosque," Chennithala said in a press statement.

"Even young children in the country know that there was a clear conspiracy behind the demolition of the Babri Masjid, which remains a black mark in the country's history. The people of the country saw that it was Advani and his cohorts conducted rath yatra and led the karseva," he added.

Congress leader said that the Liberhan Commission has numbered the role of senior BJP leaders in the conspiracy. "However, the court ruled that there was no evidence. I am asking the CBI to appeal against the verdict," he said.

Pradesh Congress Committee president Mullappally Ramachandran has said that the acquittal of the accused in the Babri Masjid case was "unfortunate".

"We are now experiencing the tragedy of politicalising constitutional institutions. Since the Modi government came to power, it has been subverting democracy for political gain. Instead of protecting secular values, the Modi government has been trying to undermine them," he said.

All the support of the Congress will be there to find a legal solution against this verdict, said Ramachandran.

"The demolition of the Babri Masjid was a dark day in Indian democracy. The towers of the Babri Masjid, along with the great secular heritage of India, are buried in the ground. Even political observers view this as an event that raised Hindutva sentiment in the name of the Ram temple and paved the way for the BJP's rise to power," he added.

Congress Working Committee member Oommen Chandy said that the "argument that there was no evidence of the demolition of the Babri Masjid, which was witnessed live all over the world, it was a loss of credibility in the investigative agencies, the judiciary and the prosecution."

Oommen Chandy requested that an immediate appeal be "lodged against the trial court's verdict."

CPI (M) State Secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan said in a statement that secular democrats are shocked by the verdict of Babri Masjid demolition case.

"The verdict has raised the question whether the Constitution and the judicial system still exist. It is also serious that the CBI has not been able to produce evidence of a crime that had been seen live around the world. The CBI has to explain how the visuals of demolishing mosque and BJP leaders rejoice which had seen across the globe could not become evidence. Once again it has become clear that the caged parrots acting behalf of rulers," said Kodiyeri.

On the other hand, BJP state president K Surendran welcomed the verdict.

Surendran has said that the three-decade-long manhunt in the Ayodhya dispute building demolition case ended with a Lucknow CBI court verdict.

He said in a statement that "all the lies spread by the Congress and pseudo-secular politicians against the BJP had collapsed."

"Congress should apologise for trying to divide the country in the name of disputes. The verdict is a slap in the face of those who have slapped top leaders, including LK Advani. The masks of the secular political parties that carried out the hate propaganda have been removed," he said, adding that the court had accepted the BJP's stand that the demolition of the disputed building was not planned.

There were 49 persons who were accused earlier in the case, out of which 17 have passed away. Therefore, the court pronounced its judgement on the remaining 32 accused.

Earlier today, 26 of the 32 persons accused earlier had arrived on the court premises to hear the court's verdict.

Six others, including senior BJP leader LK Advani, had taken part in it through video conferencing.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
New York, Oct. 01, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Europe Microminiature Circular Connectors Market Forecast to 2027 - COVID-19 Impact and Regional Analysis By Type ; Application, and Country" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p05974364/?utm_source=GNW

Microminiature circular connectors are designed to endure high shock and vibrations.



These high-density microminiature connectors are also used in applications with limited space availability, such as UAV applications.Further, growing investments in R&D activities in the development of microminiature circular connectors are also expected to fuel the growth of microminiature circular connectors market.



According to Medtech Europe, the region spent an average of 10% of GDP on healthcare, 7.3% of which was spent on medical devices. This signifies the technology adoption in the healthcare sector in the region. Thus, the growth of medical device industry is contributing to the microminiature circular connectors market growth in Europe.

The industrial application segment led the Europe microminiature circular connectors market, based on application, in 2019.Microminiature circular connectors are rugged and lightweight, and they have high density and shock resistance; these parameters drive the attention of industrial end users to these devices.



Also, circular microminiature connectors are robustly built and designed for industrial automation and control. They usually have large number of screws attached to the surface on which they are mounted; further, they are designed to keep avoid contaminant contact.

The overall Europe microminiature circular connectors market size has been derived using both primary and secondary sources.To begin the research process, exhaustive secondary research has been conducted using internal and external sources to obtain qualitative and quantitative information related to the market.



The process also serves the purpose of obtaining overview and forecast for the Europe microminiature circular connectors market with respects to all the segments pertaining to the region.Also, multiple primary interviews have been conducted with industry participants and commentators to validate the data, as well as to gain more analytical insights into the topic.



The participants that are typically involved in this process include industry expert such as VPs, business development managers, market intelligence managers, and national sales managers along with external consultants such as valuation experts, research analysts, and key opinion leaders specializing in the Europe microminiature circular connectors market.Amphenol Corporation, Franz Binder GmbH & Co.



Elektrische Bauelemente KG, Glenair, Inc., Hirose Electric Co., Ltd., HUBER+SUHNER, ITT, Inc., SOURIAU SAS, TE Connectivity, are among a few players operating in the market in Europe.



The microminiature circular connectors market in Europe is expected to grow from US$ 486.06 million in 2019 to US$ 661.22 million by 2027; it is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.0% from 2020 to 2027. The adoption of microminiature circular connectors is huge in the aerospace industry; the preference for lightweight and highly reliable devices is propelling various aviation manufacturers to adopt these connectors in huge numbers. Microminiature circular connectors are designed to endure high shock and vibrations. These high-density microminiature connectors are also used in applications with limited space availability, such as UAV applications. Further, growing investments in R&D activities in the development of microminiature circular connectors are also expected to fuel the growth of microminiature circular connectors market. According to Medtech Europe, the region spent an average of 10% of GDP on healthcare, 7.3% of which was spent on medical devices. This signifies the technology adoption in the healthcare sector in the region. Thus, the growth of medical device industry is contributing to the microminiature circular connectors market growth in Europe.

The industrial application segment led the Europe microminiature circular connectors market, based on application, in 2019.Microminiature circular connectors are rugged and lightweight, and they have high density and shock resistance; these parameters drive the attention of industrial end users to these devices.



Also, circular microminiature connectors are robustly built and designed for industrial automation and control. They usually have large number of screws attached to the surface on which they are mounted; further, they are designed to keep avoid contaminant contact.

The overall Europe microminiature circular connectors market size has been derived using both primary and secondary sources.To begin the research process, exhaustive secondary research has been conducted using internal and external sources to obtain qualitative and quantitative information related to the market.



The process also serves the purpose of obtaining overview and forecast for the Europe microminiature circular connectors market with respects to all the segments pertaining to the region.Also, multiple primary interviews have been conducted with industry participants and commentators to validate the data, as well as to gain more analytical insights into the topic.



The participants that are typically involved in this process include industry expert such as VPs, business development managers, market intelligence managers, and national sales managers along with external consultants such as valuation experts, research analysts, and key opinion leaders specializing in the Europe microminiature circular connectors market.Amphenol Corporation, Franz Binder GmbH & Co.



Elektrische Bauelemente KG, Glenair, Inc., Hirose Electric Co., Ltd., HUBER+SUHNER, ITT, Inc., SOURIAU SAS, TE Connectivity, are among a few players operating in the market in Europe.

Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05974364/?utm_source=GNW



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.



__________________________
India on Thursday strongly rejected Pakistan's criticism of the acquittal of all the 32 accused in the Babri Masjid demolition case, saying it may be difficult for the neighbouring country, having a "coercive apparatus", to understand the ethos of democracy and rule of law.

Pakistan Foreign Office on September 30 had condemned the acquittal of the accused in the case and urged the Indian government to ensure safety, security and protection of the minorities, particularly the Muslims and their places of worship.

"India is a mature democracy where the government and citizens abide by the verdicts of the court and show respect for the rule of law," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said at an online media briefing while replying to a question on Pakistan's reaction to the ruling.

"It may be difficult for a system with a coercive apparatus where people and the courts can be silenced at will of the establishment to understand such democratic ethos," he added.

Nearly 28 years after the demolition of the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya, a special CBI court in Lucknow acquitted all the 32 people accused of conspiring to raze the structure among other charges, including BJP veterans L K Advani and MM Joshi, on the grounds of absence of any conclusive evidence against them.

The case relates to the razing of the 16th century disputed structure in Ayodhya on December 6, 1992, which triggered communal riots across India, leaving nearly 2,000 people dead.

Reacting to the verdict, the Pakistan Foreign Office reportedly condemned what it called "shameful acquittal" of those responsible for demolishing the historic mosque. The foreign office was quoted by PTI as saying "Pakistan urges the Indian government to ensure safety, security and protection of minorities, particularly Muslims and their places of worship..."

In the past, New Delhi has dismissed such comments by Pakistan, asking Islamabad to stop interfering in the internal affairs of India. The Pakistani media, in general, termed the verdict as "controversial". Pakistan's Geo News said, "Indian court acquits all 32 accused in a controversial verdict on Babri Masjid case," while Dawn News said, "Indian court acquits Hindu nationalist leaders in Babri Masjid demolition case for 'lack of evidence'".

Other Pakistani newspapers including The Express Tribune and Urdu language newspaper 'Jang' gave prominent coverage to the court ruling. Several news channels also reported on the verdict.

Live TV

The special CBI court, however, observed that late Vishwa Hindu Parishad leader Ashok Singhal wanted to save the structure because Ram idols were inside. In his 2,300-page verdict, special CBI judge SK Yadav said the CBI could not produce any conclusive evidence against any accused.

Notably, prominent Muslim organisations in India have raised questions over the Babri mosque verdict saying it was "far from justice" and not only witnesses were ignored but the criminal act was also brushed aside. The AIMPLB has urged the CBI to file an appeal against the judgement.
COLUMBUS, OhioGov. Mike DeWine said Thursday he wants Energy Harbor and FirstEnergy Corp. to open their books to the public about whether two nuclear power plants actually need a $1.3 billion ratepayer bailout.

DeWine, speaking during a televised briefing, said he agreed with Attorney General Dave Yosts call for officials with the two companies to provide state lawmakers and the public financial information about the profitability of the Davis-Besse and Perry plants along Lake Erie.

I think hes right that transparency is always good, and more information about, you know, what their actual financial situation is would be helpful, the governor said.

Lawmakers have not yet acted on calls to repeal the nuclear bailout law, House Bill 6, which federal authorities say was passed through a bribery scheme fueled by $60 million in FirstEnergy money.

DeWine, who signed the bailout into in law last year as part of House Bill 6, noted that as the legislature considered whether to pass the bailout, concerns were debated and kicked around that lawmakers didnt have enough information about whether the nuclear plants needed the bailout.

The nuclear plants were owned by FirstEnergy Solutions, a FirstEnergy Corp. subsidiary, when HB6 was passed last year. In March, FirstEnergy Solutions became a separate company called Energy Harbor, which currently owns the plants.

At the time, FirstEnergy Solutions said it couldnt disclose financial data about the plants because it was involved in bankruptcy proceedings, leading legislators to rely on estimates, industry averages and company officials' word. But although those bankruptcy proceedings are over, Energy Harbor is still refusing to publicly disclose financial data showing whether the plants are profitable or not.

An Energy Harbor spokesman declined comment Thursday night.

FirstEnergy Corp. spokeswoman Jennifer Young said her company financially separated from FirstEnergy Solutions in March of 2018, before HB6 was introduced. Since that time, FirstEnergy Solutions still continued to share its computer systems with FirstEnergy Corp., but financial information about FirstEnergy Solutions plants wasnt ours to share anymore," Young said.

Asked whether FirstEnergy Corp. would reveal financial data about the plants before 2016, Young declined, saying its been longstanding company policy not to disclose such information.

If you look across the industry, its competitive information," Young said. "Sharing competitive information like finances could give another supplier -- its giving them information that they otherwise wouldnt have about your operations.

Yost wrote lawmakers last week saying the companies owe it to the legislature and the public to appear before the committees and provide a detailed financial accounting of their operations.

Ohio House and Senate committees have been studying what to do about HB6, though its still unclear what, if anything, they intend to do about it before Ohio electricity customers start paying the bailout in January.

DeWine did not directly answer a question about whether he has a duty to help protect Ohioans from these fees, given that federal authorities have indicted ex-House Speaker Larry Householder and four allies on racketeering conspiracy charges that say he oversaw the bribery scheme to secure the bills passage.

The governor noted that he has called for the repeal and replacement of the bailout and the rest of HB6 after the arrests were made.

This needs to be repealed because the process was so flawed that it has cast a light on this bill that it can never recover from, the governor said Thursday. We need to repeal it and then figure out where were going from there.

Read more Ohio politics and government stories:

11 Ohio counties now in red coronavirus alert; Cuyahoga again orange

Like Ohio, all of this years major presidential swing states require voters to request an absentee ballot in order to get one

Sen. Rob Portman urges President Donald Trump to condemn white supremacy unequivocally

Amazon is not at fault for Lorain County teens overdose death, Ohio Supreme Court rules

New Ohio unemployment claims rise for the second straight week
Lyon, 30 September 2020



Olympique Lyonnais are proud to announce the transfer of Brazilian international Lucas Paqueta from AC Milan. Lucas has signed a five-year contract, i.e. until 30 June 2025.

Born in Rio de Janeiro, the versatile, 23-year-old midfielder trained at Flamengo before starting his professional career in 2016 with his hometown club. In three years, he appeared in 95 matches and scored 18 goals. On the strength of these stats, he was called up to play on the Brazil national team and be counted among the Brazil Serie A "Team of the Year" in 2018, one year before his friend and compatriot Bruno Guimaraes.

Member of the victorious Brazil national team in the Copa America 2019 with which he counts 11 caps, Lucas Paqueta was scouted by Juninho, who convinced him to join Olympique Lyonnais in the pursuit of the club's ambitious goals.



In January 2019, Lucas Paqueta joined AC Milan for a record 39 million. The left-footed attacking midfielder played 44 matches in one and a half seasons in Milan, scoring one goal.

Without waiting for the end of the transfer window, OL negotiated Lucas' transfer in the amount of 20 million, including a 15% earn-out on any future capital gain.



Olympique Lyonnais are very pleased to welcome Lucas Paqueta, the 22nd Brazilian player in the club's history following the arrival of Bruno Guimaraes last January, making him the sixth Brazilian in the current squad.





OL Groupe



Tel.: +33 4 81 07 55 00

Fax: +33 4 81 07 45 65



Email: investisseurs@ol.fr



www.ol.fr

Euronext Paris - Segment B



Indices: CAC Small - CAC Mid & Small - CAC All-Tradable - CAC All-Share - CAC Consumer Services

ISIN: FR0010428771

Reuters: OLG.PA

Bloomberg: OLG FP

ICB: 5755 Recreational services



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LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Parts Authority (or the "Company"), a leading national distributor of automotive aftermarket parts and a portfolio company of The Jordan Company ("TJC"), announced today the signing of a definitive agreement for the acquisition of a majority stake in the Company by Kohlberg & Company, LLC ("Kohlberg"). Parts Authority's existing management team, led by CEO Randy Buller, will continue to lead the Company and remain significant owners of the business. TJC will also retain a significant ownership position in Parts Authority. Additional terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Headquartered in Lake Success, New York, Parts Authority is the leading distributor of automotive and truck parts to the automotive aftermarket industry in the U.S. The Company has rapidly grown its footprint to over 200 locations across the U.S. and distributes nearly 500,000 SKUs, primarily serving customers in the do-it-for-me segment, including independent installers, national fleets chains, jobbers, and e-tailers.

"TJC has been an excellent partner to Parts Authority over the past several years as we have continued to expand our footprint in the U.S. through new greenfield locations and acquisitions," said Randy Buller. "The entire Parts Authority staff is excited to partner with Kohlberg for this next phase as we look to continue expanding our business across the nation."

"We are delighted to partner with Randy and the Parts Authority team. The Company has clearly established itself as a leading national distributor within the automotive aftermarket," said Evan Wildstein, Partner of Kohlberg. "We believe the Company is well positioned to continue on an accelerated growth trajectory through a highly successful organic and acquisition-driven strategy."

Ian Arons, Partner of TJC, commented: "Randy and the rest of the Parts Authority team have done a phenomenal job of turning the Company into the distributor-of-choice in the automotive aftermarket parts industry. We are excited to continue investing alongside the Parts Authority team, and look forward to working with the Company and Kohlberg in this next stage of growth."

Harris Williams served as financial advisor and Kirkland & Ellis LLP served as legal counsel to Parts Authority and Cowen served as an advisor to the board. Stifel served as lead financial advisor and Paul Weiss LLP served as legal counsel to Kohlberg.

About Parts Authority

Parts Authority, founded in 1972, is a leading national distributor of automotive replacement parts, tools/equipment and transmissions. Headquartered in Long Island, New York, Parts Authority is rapidly expanding, and today has more than 200 locations servicing customers in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Washington DC, Virginia, Ohio, Georgia, Florida, Texas, Arizona, California, Oregon, Washington, Massachusetts, and now Utah. Parts Authority has grown through both organic initiatives and acquisitions. Over the past several years Parts Authority has acquired over a dozen companies as part of its geographical expansion initiative. For more information, please visit https://partsauthority.com/.

About Kohlberg & Company, LLC

Kohlberg & Company, LLC ("Kohlberg") is a leading private equity firm headquartered in Mount Kisco, New York. Since its inception in 1987, Kohlberg has organized nine private equity funds, through which it has raised over $10 billion of committed equity capital. Over its 33-year history, Kohlberg has completed 81 platform investments and approximately 200 add-on acquisitions, with an aggregate transaction value in excess of $25 billion. For more information, please visit www.kohlberg.com.

About TJC

TJC, founded in 1982, is a middle-market private equity firm that has managed funds with original capital commitments in excess of $11 billion since 1987 and a 38-year track record of investing in and contributing to the growth of many businesses across a wide range of industries including Industrials, Transportation & Logistics, Healthcare & Consumer, and Telecom, Technology & Utility. The senior investment team has been investing together for over 20 years and it is supported by the Operations Management Group, which was established in 1988 to initiate and support operational improvements in portfolio companies. Headquartered in New York, TJC also has an office in Chicago. For more information, please visit www.thejordancompany.com.

SOURCE The Jordan Company, L.P.

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Brooklyn Beckham has deleted an image of himself holding his fiance Nicola Anne Peltzs neck on Instagram, following condemnation of the image by a domestic violence charity. While it is not clear why the image was removed, IKWRO founder Dianna Nammi has called it disgusting and believes Beckham should apologise openly.

The original image showed Beckham placing his hand on Peltzs neck during dinner, as Peltz laughed and put her arm around him.

The pair have posed similarly in the past, as last week Peltz posted an image holding Beckhams neck in an Instagram she captioned, I love you more everyday.

Speaking to the Daily Mail, Nammi said that many victims of domestic violence, forced marriage and honour-based violence had been strangled by their own family and killed in a similar manner by their partners.

She continued, We are talking about real life, even if it's a joke it is disgusting in my opinion. I think it should be banned from Instagram this kind of picture. He is 21 so mature enough to know it is a very serious matter and I think he has to apologise openly and tell people that he made a huge mistake.

She added that it was sending a very dangerous message to young people especially, adding that the Beckham family should also address the situation.

Beckham has not spoken about the deleted image. The Evening Standard has reached out for comment.

Nammis organisation, IKWRO Womens Rights Organisation, is a member of the Womens Resource Center and aims to protect Middle Eastern and Afghan women from honour-based violence, forced and child marriages, FGM and domestic violence.

Last year, the Office for National Statistics estimated that two women are killed by a current or former partner in England and Wales every week. The BBC also reported that in 2018 domestic violence killings in the UK had spiked to a five year high with 173 deaths, compared to 141 the year prior.

For those seeking support regarding domestic violence, Refuge offers a 24/7 national domestic abuse helpline at 0808 2000 247. The government has also compiled a comprehensive list of resources and organisations for victims of domestic violence of all genders here.
"Today marks another special milestone for Steampunk as we officially take occupancy of our new Design Intelligence Studio" said Matt Warren, Chief Executive Officer at Steampunk. "Everything about this space is reflective of our brand and designed for creative collaboration. It will serve as the 'point of integration' where we work alongside our Federal clients to help them achieve mission success at speed and scale" added Warren.

Design Intelligence, Steampunk's approach to creative problem solving, is the lens through which human-centered solutions are generated. It's the nexus of how Steampunk defines, creates, and delivers products and services  grounded in the understanding of the people who use them. Given the current COVID-19 landscape, Steampunk plans to operationalize the studio in a safe and judicious way by leveraging virtual team sessions.

About Steampunk

Steampunk is a Change Agent in the Federal contracting industry, bringing new thinking to clients in the Defense, Homeland, Federal Civilian, and Justice & Legislative sectors. As an employee owned company, we focus on investing in our employees to enable them to do the greatest work of their careers  and rewarding them for outstanding contributions to our growth. If you want to learn more about our story, visit http://www.steampunk.com.

Media Contact: Robert Pearson, Chief Marketing Officer

[email protected] | 571.344.5538

www.steampunk.com | @Steampunk_inc

SOURCE Steampunk

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Phuket top-flight officials support Sripanwa land claims

PHUKET: A delegation of top-ranking Phuket officials have travelled to Bangkok to present to a parliamentary investigative committee that Sripanwas claim to the land on which the five-star resort is located is legal.

landpropertypolitics

By Eakkapop Thongtub

Thursday 1 October 2020, 08:30AM

Phuket Governor Narong Woonciew at Phuket International Airport yesterday (Sept 30). Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub

Phuket Governor Narong Woonciew announced the news to the press while attending the demonstration test run of the new COVID-19 test laboratory at Phuket International Airport yesterday (Sept 30).

The delegation was led by Phuket Vice Governor Supoj Rotreuang Na Nongkhai, and officers from the Phuket office of the Department of Lands and from the Phuket office of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Governor Narong said.

Governor Narong explained that he was unable to travel to Bangkok yesterday to lead the delegation as he was required to attend the laboratory test run at the airport.

Yesterday was also the last day of the government fiscal (budget) year, which meant he had many other matters to attend to as well, Gov Narong added.

A preliminary examination of the land documents for the Sripanwa resort has shown that the title deeds issued, and the original NorSor 3 Kor [land-use document] were correct in detail. This has been clarified," Gov Narong said.

However, Governor Narong recognised that the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) will conduct its own investigation.

Officers from the DSI will inspect the area to verify the facts of the Sri Panwa project, which has become an issue well known through the news, he said.

An investigation is a common occurrence when such questions arise. There must be a factual investigation from the relevant authority to reveal the truth, he added.

An officer at the Phuket Land Office who asked not to be named also told The Phuket News that the land documents for the Sripanwa resort were fully legal.

Of the total area of approximately 56 rai, six NorSor 3 Kor land-use documents have been issued cover 50 rai and two Chanote title deeds have been issued for the remaining approximately five to six rai, the officer said.

None of the land is on any type of state land and does not overlap with land owned by any government agency, the officer said.

The move to have the DSI investigate the Sripanwa land follows Vorasit Issara, owner of the five-star resort, posting negative comments about protesters in Bangkok disrespecting the Thai monarchy.

The comments prompted a backlash online, and claims that the land the Sripanwa resort is located on was acquired illegally.
Wilkes-Barre, PA (18701)

Today

Mostly clear skies this evening will become overcast overnight. Low around 15F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Mostly clear skies this evening will become overcast overnight. Low around 15F. Winds light and variable.
With implications for the transmission of diseases like COVID-19, researchers have found that ordinary conversation creates a conical jet-like airflow that quickly carries a spray of tiny droplets from a speakers mouth across meters of an interior space.

People should recognize that they have an effect around them, said Howard Stone, the Donald R. Dixon 69 and Elizabeth W. Dixon Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Princeton University. Its not just around your head, it is at the scale of meters.

Although scientists have not yet fully identified the transmission mechanisms of COVID-19, current research indicates that people without symptoms could infect others through tiny droplets created when they speak, sing or laugh. Stone and co-lead researcher Manouk Abkarian, of the University of Montpellier in France, wanted to learn how widely and quickly exhaled material from an average speaker could spread in an interior space.

It certainly highlights the importance of ventilation. Especially if you have an extended conversation, said Professor Stone.

Lots of people have written about coughs and sneezes and the kinds of things you worry about with the flu, Stone said. But those features are associated with visible symptoms, and with this disease we are seeing a lot of spread by people without symptoms.

In an article published Sept. 25 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the researchers concluded that for interior activities, normal conversations can spread exhaled material at least far as, if not beyond, social distancing guidelines recommended by the World Health Authority (1 meter or about 3 feet) and U.S. officials (2 meters or about 6 feet). The work examined particle flow in an interior space without good ventilation.

Stone and Abkarian stressed that they are not public health experts and are not making medical recommendations. However, they said public health officials should consider the aerodynamic movement of aerosolized particles generated by speech alone already as an important factor for directed spreading.

It certainly highlights the importance of ventilation, Stone said. Especially if you have an extended conversation.

The researchers also said that while masks do not completely block the flow of aerosols, they play a critical role in disruption of the jet-like air flow from a speakers mouth, preventing the quick transport of droplets on large length scales bigger than 30 cm.

Masks really cut this flow of tremendously, Stone said. This identifies why (most) masks play a big role. They cut everything off.

The researchers specialize in fluid dynamics, which describes the movement of liquids and gasses. Using a high-speed camera, they filmed the movement of a mist of tiny droplets illuminated by a laser sheet in front of a person speaking several different phrases adjacent to the sheet. The phrases ranged from short statements like we will beat the corona virus to nursery rhymes including Peter Piper picked a peck and Sing a song of six pence. The researchers selected the phrases to include different sounds that affect turbulent flows in a speakers exhalation.

The researchers found that plosive sounds like P create puffs of air in front of the speaker while a conversation created what the researchers called a train of puffs. Each puff creates a small vortex of air in front of the speaker, and the interaction of these vortices creates a cone-shaped jet-like airflow from the speakers mouth. The researchers found that this airflow could easily and very quickly carry tiny particles away from the speaker.

Abkarian said that even a short phrase can move the particles past the 1-meter distancing recommended by the World Health Organization in a matter of seconds.

The researchers said the distance depends in part on the duration of the conversation. Someone speaking for more time will send particles farther. They said that the 6-foot distancing rule may not be a sufficient barrier in an interior space without good ventilation.

If you speak for 30 seconds in a loud voice, you are going to project aerosol more than six feet in the direction of your interlocutor, Stone said.

The researchers concluded that for interior activities, normal conversations can spread exhaled material at least far as, if not beyond, recommended social distancing guidelines.

In the paper, the researchers found that aerosols ejected during speech typically reached the 2-meter distance in about 30 seconds, and over that distance the aerosols concentration diluted to about 3 percent of the original volume. It was beyond the papers scope to say whether the dilution was sufficient to protect against infection, although the researchers noted that many will find this concentration to be higher than expected. The researchers said they hoped the information could help public health officials to make that determination. They also noted that longer conversations had the potential to spread more material and spread the virus over a larger distance.

However, more extended discussions, and meetings in confined spaces, mean that the local environment will potentially contain exhaled air over a significantly longer distance, the researchers wrote.

The researchers said the experiment showed that a social distance of 6 feet (2 meters) did not work like a wall to protect people. Over time, conversations can cause material to move past the distance, particularly inside buildings.

The train of puffs created by a conversation causes a more complex turbulent flow than single jets of air and researchers had to account for it in their calculations. The researchers used the data from the experiments to create a mathematical framework to quantify the transport of droplets from the speakers mouth to the surrounding area. They noted that the work does not account for movement of the speakers head or body and background air movement caused by ventilation and other speakers. Analyzing those factors would require further work.

Besides Stone and Abkarian, researchers include: Simon Mendez of the University of Montpellier; Nan Xue and Fan Yang, graduate students in mechanical and aerospace engineering at Princeton. Support for the project was provided in part by a National Science Foundation RAPID grant program.

Original research: Speech can produce jet-like transport relevant to asymptomatic spreading of virus.

Topics COVID-19
Louth TD and Sinn Fein spokesperson for Tourism, Imelda Munster TD, has today criticised the Government 'Stay and Spend' scheme which starts today.



Deputy Munster commented that the scheme is coming too late, offers too little, and excludes huge swathes of the population.



The Louth TD raised the plight of the tourism sector today with Minister Catherine Martin, asking her to take on board some of the Sinn Fein proposals to support business as we face into a long hard winter.



Deputy Munster said:



The tourism sector has estimated that 100,000 jobs have already been lost, and that another 100,000 are at risk due to the Covid19 pandemic.



"They are asking for increases to the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme, a cut to VAT for the sector, increased grant aid and an extension of the rates break. These are the practical steps we need to see from government.



The governments decision to open this scheme from October is baffling. Children are back in school, the weather is worsening and people are being advised to reduce their contacts. We also have one and a half million people in Dublin and Donegal cant leave their own county.



Further to that, the scheme excludes people who dont pay tax, including carers, the majority of pensioners and those who lost their jobs due to the pandemic.



"Having to spend money and claim it back next year also means that only people who can already afford a holiday can take one under this scheme.



Its a real shame that the Government chose not to take Sinn Feins 'Staycation Voucher' scheme on board.



Our proposal would have helped people get back to work, would have run through the Summer months when families were in a position to take a holiday, and it would have put money directly into peoples pockets. Our scheme offered 200 to each adult and 100 to each child in the state.



Our scheme would have put money directly into the tills of businesses across the state by putting extra money straight into the hands of everyone in the state.
DENVER, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Frndly TV, the first-ever live and on-demand TV streaming service tailored specifically to American families, is celebrating its 1-year anniversary by upgrading the DVR for its existing and new customers without raising the price of the service. For a second time since launching a year ago, Frndly TV will increase the length of time recordings can be kept with its unlimited storage cloud DVR. With this increase, Frndly TV has tripled the length of time customers can keep their recording since its launch. And all without changing the price.

With this DVR upgrade, customers with the $7.99/mo. Classic Plan will now be able to keep their DVR recordings for up to 3 months, doubling the previous 45 days limit. Customers with the $9.99/mo. Premium Plan will be able to keep their recordings for up to 9 months, a 50% increase from the previous 180 days limit.

"We wanted to celebrate our 1-year anniversary by adding even more value for our customers" said Joey Monjure, Frndly TV's vice president of product & customer experience. "With this DVR upgrade, customers can not only record as many of the 40+ brand new Christmas movies that are being shown on the Hallmark Channel and UPtv this holiday season but they can also now watch them as many times as they want over the next 9 months without having to worry about running out of DVR storage space".

All Frndly TV customers, including the $5.99/mo. Basic Plan customers, will continue to have access to all the same great 15 channels as well as the Look Back feature, which allows customers to go backwards in the guide and watch any show or movie On Demand that aired in the past 72 hours.

For more information on Frndly TV or to start your 7-day free trial today, visit www.frndlytv.com.

About Frndly TV

Frndly TV is the first sub $10 live over-the-top television service built from the ground up with the American Family in mind. Starting at only $5.99/mo., it offers 15 top rated live TV networks including Hallmark Channel, INSP, UPtv, Game Show Network, CuriosityStream, The Weather Channel, & Outdoor Channel. Frndly TV delivers positive, uplifting family friendly programming in an app that is simple to use and gives its customers the ability to watch TV how they want, when they want. It offers a traditional linear TV guide with the added ability to Look Back 72 hours and watch any show that previously aired on any channel. It also gives its customers the ability to watch over one thousand On Demand titles or record their favorite shows with an unlimited cloud DVR. Frndly TV customers can watch at home on their big screen TV with Roku, Amazon Fire, Apple TV, or Chromecast, or on-the-go with Android and iOS mobile apps. Frndly TV delivers family friendly content at an even friendlier price with low monthly plans and no contracts or commitments. Discounted annual plans are also available. Welcome to Worry-Free TV. Visit frndlytv.com.

For further information: Elizabeth El-Khatib, 303.910.9438, [email protected]

SOURCE Frndly TV

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Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 19:31:36|Editor: huaxia

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Photo taken in Arlington, Virginia, the United States on Sept. 29, 2020 shows C-SPAN 2 live stream of U.S. President Donald Trump (L) and his Democratic challenger Joe Biden speaking during their first debate in the 2020 presidential race. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

"Clearly, the lines are drawn. I don't think either candidate took votes from the other. I have no idea how an undecided voter might react," Tom Waters, a soybean and corn farmer in Orrick, Missouri, tells Xinhua.



WASHINGTON, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- After a messy face-off between U.S. President Donald Trump and his Democratic rival Joe Biden late Tuesday, the Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD) is mulling changes for the next two 2020 presidential debates.

"Last night's debate made clear that additional structure should be added to the format of the remaining debates to ensure a more orderly discussion of the issues," the CPD said in a statement on Wednesday, adding that it "will be carefully considering the changes that it will adopt and will announce those measures shortly."

The nonpartisan body also said it is grateful to moderator and Fox News anchor Chris Wallace "for the professionalism and skill he brought to last night's debate and intends to ensure that additional tools to maintain order are in place for the remaining debates."

The statement came shortly after contentious exchanges and personal attacks between Trump and Biden overshadowed what was meant to be a policy debate, which drew wide criticisms of being messy and unpresidential.

"That was a hot mess, inside a dumpster fire, inside a train wreck," CNN anchor and correspondent Jake Tapper commented Tuesday night. "That was the worst debate I've ever seen. It wasn't even a debate."

The first debate was designed to fall into six 15-minute segments, each on major topics selected by Wallace. After the moderator opened each segment with a question, each candidate was supposed to have two minutes to respond before exchanging with the other candidate.

Photo taken in Arlington, Virginia, the United States, on Sept. 29, 2020 shows C-SPAN 2 live stream of U.S. President Donald Trump (L) and his Democratic challenger, Joe Biden, speaking during their first debate in the 2020 presidential race. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

Trump, however, interrupted Biden on nearly every topic he was talking about and also claimed that the Democrat is not intelligent. Meanwhile, the former U.S. vice president hit back by calling his opponent a "liar" and a "clown" and told him to "shut up."

"Gentlemen! I hate to raise my voice," Wallace, who had to frequently intervene, said at one point. "I think that the country would be better served if we allowed both people to speak with fewer interruptions."

"I'm just sad with the way last night turned out," Wallace later said in an interview with The New York Times.

"I never dreamt that it would go off the tracks the way it did," he said. "I guess I didn't realize -- and there was no way you could, hindsight being 20/20 -- that this was going to be the president's strategy, not just for the beginning of the debate but the entire debate."

Speaking to reporters at the White House on Wednesday before leaving for campaign events in Minnesota, Trump said he thought "the debate last night was great" despite several instant polls showing most viewers thinking Biden did better.

"We got tremendous reviews on it," the president said. "I thought it was a great evening. It was an exciting evening. I see the ratings were very high ... By every measure, we won the debate easily last night. I think he was very weak."

During a stop on a campaign train tour of northeastern Ohio and western Pennsylvania on Wednesday, Biden, who is leading Trump in national and battleground state polls, accused the Republican of trying "everything to distract, everything possible."

"I just hope there's a way in which the debate commission can control the ability of us to answer the question without interruptions," he said.

Photo taken in Arlington, Virginia, the United States on Sept. 29, 2020 shows C-SPAN 2 live stream of U.S. President Donald Trump (L) and his Democratic challenger Joe Biden (R) attending their first debate in the 2020 presidential race. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

An estimated 73.1 million people tuned in to watch the first Trump-Biden debate on Tuesday night, according to viewership data released by measurement company Nielsen.

A CBS News poll on Tuesday showed that the vast majority of likely voters planning to watch the debate had already decided on their candidate and were mostly watching to see how that candidate did.

"Clearly, the lines are drawn. I don't think either candidate took votes from the other. I have no idea how an undecided voter might react," Tom Waters, a soybean and corn farmer in Orrick, Missouri, told Xinhua. "It is hard to understand how our politicians can expect the people of the country to have much respect for them when they have no respect for each other. The best candidates for the job would never run under today's political environment."

Trump and Biden will have two more debates in October leading up to Election Day. Both campaigners have committed to attending them.

Next week, there will be a vice presidential debate between Vice President Mike Pence and Biden's running mate, U.S. Senator from California Kamala Harris. 
Photo: Getty Images

Re: Elderly feeling abandoned, published Sept. 30

I, like many others during this pandemic, have seen first-hand the effect the lockdown has had on our seniors. While many would correct me to say B.C. never locked down, I would challenge that that is EXACTLY what we did to our seniors!

My grandma is 97 years old and had been living in assisted living for the past four years. The facility she lived at is operated by a non-profit, and my mom has worked for the same non-profit at a different facility for 15 years. They operate several facilities across the province.

When the lockdown began, my mom and aunt were allowed in as essential visitors, as my grandma has a history of depression and unwillingness to eat, and they are often the only ones who can keep her eating.

In early April, as the pandemic worsened, my mom and aunt were informed they would no longer be permitted in as essential visitors. We all understood the importance of protecting our loved ones during the pandemic and agreed. It was not long before we would start receiving calls from staff, informing us that my grandma was not wanting to have a shower or eat dinner. Mom would phone the administrator and ask if my grandma was doing OK, and every time she was told, Shes fine, everyone is having a hard time but theyre doing fine.

It was finally on Mothers Day weekend that one of my grandmas care aids told us that my grandma was not doing fine, and had not been for quite some time. She would not eat and was very weak.

My mom called the administrator to try and get weights, but we found out that they do not weigh residents in assisted living. That is something that is up to the families to do, but we would not be allowed in to do it. My mom pushed for an exception, and we finally found out that my grandma had dropped from almost 100 pounds to 71 pounds. It was around this time that we were told many families had already taken their loved ones home, and that we could do the same. This despite the fact that my mom was a full-time care aid and I also work full time.

Finally, after pushing to be let in, my mom and aunt were again given essential visitor status. When they came in, they found she had lost so much weight her pants were literally falling off, and she was not very responsive. Her community care nurse was brought in and suggested palliative (end-of-life) orders.

The facility told us this was simply a natural decline, nothing to do with the lockdown. Yet, over the next three weeks of daily visits from my mom and aunt, my grandma regained 13 pounds and began to walk around and talk again. It was at this point that the palliative nurse arrived to give the orders, but after seeing my grandmas improvement, she decided that my grandma was not actually palliative.

During her time in lockdown, she was not allowed out of her room. No hairdressing, no bingo, no socialization. She would be brought three meals a day, that were dropped off on a plate that had a piece of masking tape with her name taped right by the food. While she regained physical strength, her mental state was extremely fragile. She told my mom, I dont want to die alone. Fearing that we would be locked out again as her condition improved, we made the difficult decision to bring her home. Since July, my mom has been off work and caring for my grandma 24/7. She has continued to improve, something that would not usually happen with natural decline. She still calls out during the day/night, whenever she thinks she's alone, fearing that no one will come. She still expresses fear of going back to a home, feeling that she will never get to see us again if that happens.

What comes next? Were not sure. Physically, my grandma is continually improving. Mentally, she still has a long way to go, and may never get back to who she was. My moms EI runs out in a few months. Weve reached out to the Provincial Health Office, the Minister of Health, John Horgans office, weve put in an official complaint with the Assisted Living Registry. We contacted the ombudsman who assured us that we would hear from the Ministry of Health.

At this point, no one has gotten back to us.

What do we do now?

Scott Ambler, Kelowna
New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern would declare a climate change emergency if re-elected on October 17, while opposition leader Judith Collins has promised tax cuts and faster economic growth during a fast-paced and fiery second election debate.

Labour's Ardern, who enjoys a strong lead in the polls ahead of the vote, admitted for the first time that she had smoked cannabis "a long time ago" - but still refused to say which way she would vote in the concurrent referendum on legalising recreational use.

Jacinda Ardern and Judith Collins clashed, and agreed, on much during a spirited New Zealand election debate. Credit:Getty Images

Collins, who opposes legalisation of recreational use (but supports medicinal cannabis) attacked Ardern's equivocation and pointed out the New Zealand PM had made it clear that she would vote yes in the second referendum, which would legalise End of Life legislation.

In a moment of levity, Collins joked that she would be happy to appear on the cover of Vogue magazine, as Ardern once did, and added that any politician who suggested otherwise was a liar.
Subway has often been seen as a healthier alternative to greasy fast food, boasting the catch phrase Eat Fresh while serving up freshly-baked bread rolls stuffed with veggies, meats and dressing.

But a court has ruled the bread used in those sandwiches doesnt exactly meet the definition of bread.

The Irish Supreme Court found the loaves used to make Subways toasted sandwiches contained too much sugar to meet the legal definition of bread.

The decision was made after the franchise tried to claim their sandwiches were a staple food for a tax exemption in Ireland, but the country has a strict definition on what can be sold as bread.

The Irish Supreme Court found the loaves used to make Subways toasted sandwiches contained too much sugar to meet the legal definition of being bread. Source: Subway

Subway Ireland offers customers six different varieties of bread to choose from  including nine-grain multi-seed, Italian white bread, Italian herbs and cheese, nine-grain wheat, hearty Italian and honey oat, according to their website.

The five-judge court ruled all six varieties could not be defined as bread under the statutory definition of bread.

According to the Irish Independent, the Value-Added Tax Act 1972 states sugar, fat, and "bread improver" cannot add up to more than two per cent of the weight of the flour.

Subway bread in Ireland has a sugar content of 10 per cent of the weight of the flour included in the dough.

The court ruled all six varieties of bread served in Subway Ireland could not be defined as bread. Source: Subway

The limits were reportedly put in place to stop sweet baked goods such as pastries from being labelled as a staple food and therefore exempt from being taxed.

This isnt the first time the folks at Subway have been forced to defend their bread.

In 2014, a petition was created to ask the US chain to remove the chemical azodicarbonamide from their breads.

The chemical is approved for food usage in the US and also found in yoga mats and synthetic leather, however its discontinued for use in food products in Australia.

Story continues

At the time Subway said the ingredient was safe, however they would phase the usage of it from their breads.

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.
He came to the United States in 1993 to provide for his son and daughter, his attorney Adam Sheppard said. The defense introduced an array of letters from former students and parents attesting to his good character and what a great teacher he was, Sheppard said.
Jharkhand education minister Jagarnath Mahato, who had tested positive for COVID-19 earlier in the week, was on Thursday shifted to a private hospital in Ranchi from state-run Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) after he complained of breathlessness.

A spokesperson at RIMS said that Mahato had requested that he be shifted to Medica, following which arrangements were made and the minister was moved to the private hospital.

Mahato had on September 28 taken to Twitter to announce that he was diagnosed with the infection. He asked people who came in contact with him recently to get themselves examined.
It is not biology, but access to health care that is causing Black Non-Hispanic patients with squamous cell cancer of the head and neck to have lower survival rates

Studies have long reported that Black cancer patients have poorer outcomes than their white counterparts. But two University of Colorado Cancer Center researchers decided to investigate the data further and figure out why. What they found was that the outcome disparity was caused not by biology, but simply by differences in access to health care.

The researchers, Jessica McDermott, MD, an assistant professor in the Department of Medical Oncology, and Sana Karam, MD, PhD, an associate professor in the Department of Radiation Oncology, examined Medicare data for individuals suffering squamous cell cancer of the head and neck. All 13,117 patients in this study were diagnosed with their first and only malignant tumor at age 66 or older sometime between 2006 and 2015.

The data confirmed what has been widely reported for years - that the Black head and neck cancer patients had worse outcomes than the white cancer patients.

"But then when we controlled for access to care, those differences suddenly disappeared," says McDermott. "When you closely examine the data, it becomes clear what is going on."

Their findings were published this week in the Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. The physicians hope their research will catch the attention of those who can help narrow those disparate outcomes.

McDermott and Karam identified two major differences for Black patients: first, they presented at later stages of cancer, and second, they were less likely to receive treatment.

"This is an interesting finding," says McDermott. "A lot of the reasons driving the disparate outcomes came down to socially related things - they were less likely to be married, lived in poor areas, had comorbidities [presence of two or more chronic diseases], were less likely to see a primary care provider in the year leading up to the diagnosis, and were more likely to present in the emergency room."

For most cancers, where and when a patient first presents can make a large difference both in the care received and in the outcome.

"Just a reminder that we are talking about a curable disease, a disease that, if treated properly, can be eradicated with a high degree of certainty," says Karam. "I hope that more targeted interventions can be developed as a result of our findings. The problem lies not so much in biological differences, but access. If Black patients get the treatment, they do just as well."

A teaching and research hospital like the University of Colorado can lead the way in improving the care of underserved communities.

"Like many other tertiary care centers, we have a great number of clinical trials, but not everyone who could benefit from them enjoys access," says Karam. "We need to enhance our ability to deliver more broadly the best and newest trials that can extend life and decrease symptom burden."

Black lives matter

The disparities that Black community members face are gaining national attention after the deaths of George Floyd and other Black men and women. But one area of inequity that has not received as much attention is access to medical care. Last month, dozens of providers gathered at the Anschutz Medical Campus to support a national movement by kneeling with fellow White Coats for Black Lives members.

"Speaking up is an important first step towards change," says Karam. "But it must be accompanied by policy change aimed at expanding access to care. We invest billions in new therapies that might or might not work but devote far less attention to helping our socially challenged patients get through the door, which our study shows does work."

The doctors say that more work is needed to overcome hurdles to health care access.

"We also need to educate the next generation of doctors on showing compassion and sensitivity to issues of race, income, social challenges, addiction, and other access barriers," says Karam.

What the CU Cancer Center is doing to help

Prior to this study's publication, Dr. McDermott was awarded a grant from the CU Cancer Center Office of Community Outreach and Engagement to increase the representation of the Hispanic populations in head and neck cancer clinical trials. Colorado has a large population of Hispanics, which makes that population an easier place to begin making changes.

"Our goal is to use that project to branch out to Hispanics, Blacks, and anyone else with socioeconomic issues that currently compromise their access to care," says McDermott.

The CU Cancer Center will continue studying the health disparities for different types of cancer and investigating strategies for eliminating the barriers faced by those needing care.

###
Deputy President William Ruto should donate land to Kenyan youth instead of giving them Mikokoteni and wheelbarrows, Nyeri MP Ngunjiri Wambugu has said.

In an interview with Citizen TV, Wambugu argued that when Ruto was younger, the late former President Daniel Moi set him up with land, and therefore, the DP should also empower youth with something substantial.

When he (DP Ruto) was a hustler in university he was not given a mkokoteni by President Moi, he was given land, why cant he give these people land so that they can become like him today? Wambugu posed.

The lawmaker also echoed David Murathes sentiments that Ruto is technically jobless as evidenced by his conspicuous absence at the COVID-19 conference on Monday.

I think that picture(DPs absence) tells me, and not just me, it tells a lot of Kenyans that the Deputy Presidents position is vacant. That particular seat was also left vacant deliberately to send a message that we no longer have a serving Deputy President, Wambugu said.

According to the lawmaker, Ruto has deliberately refused to work and he cannot be fired due to the provisions of the Constitution.

We cannot fire the guy; we have to somehow carry the burden of going along with a Deputy President who has refused to work William Ruto absconded the duties and office of the Deputy President along time ago, Wambugu said.
Kolkata, Oct 1 : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday announced a road repair scheme titled 'Pathashree Abhijan' under which more than 7,000 stretches of roads comprising 12,000 km across the state will be repaired in a mission mode in a time-bound manner.

Banerjee said that the state government was able to collate the list of these roads after the people of Bengal reached out to her through the 'Didi Ke Bolo', a telephone-based direct interaction programme with the Chief Minister's Office (CMO).

"I am pleased to announce the launch of #PathashreeAbhijan, an unprecedented road repair scheme, wherein more than 7,000 stretches of roads comprising 12,000 km across the state will be repaired in a mission mode in a time-bound manner," Banerjee tweeted after launching the scheme at Phulbari in Jalpaiguri district.

Sources said the state government has already allocated Rs 500 crore for the scheme and the repairing work would be finished by December-January, 2021.

"Inputs were received at the CMO Grievance Redressal Cell, along with valuable inputs from the elected representatives of Bengal," the Chief Minister said, adding that Bengal tops the list in constructing roads in India as the state government has constructed over 3.16 lakh km of road stretches in the past eight years.
Here are todays top news, analysis and opinion. Know all about the latest news and other news updates from Hindustan Times.

Manipur tweaks Covid-19 protocol; asymptomatic patients to be discharged after 10 days

Asymptomatic Covid-19 positive persons will be discharged from Covid care centres after 10 days, according to an updated advisory on Covid-19 treatment protocol in Manipur. There is no retest before discharge. Persons will self isolate at home for further seven days and self-monitor his/her health, said a Wednesday press release by Dr Khoirom Sasheekumar Mangang, additional director and spokesperson of the health department. Read more

Ashok Gehlot calls for apolitical Covid-19 campaign, Raje, Kataria extend support

Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot has appealed to leaders of all parties, MPs, MLAs to actively participate in the mass movement against coronavirus-- being launched on October 2--by rising above the political divide and making it successful. Read more

US isnt yet keen on formalising Quad, says state department official

Ahead of an upcoming ministerial meeting of the Quad - as a consultative group comprising India, the US, Japan and Australia calls itself - a senior US state department official dismissed talk of formalising the association, saying America wanted to strengthen existing regional architectures, not create new ones. Read more

IPL 2020: Shane Warne provides update on Ben Stokes availability for Rajasthan Royals

England all-rounder Ben Stokes is yet to arrive in the UAE to take part in the IPL 2020 for Rajasthan Royals. Amid growing whispers that Stokes might miss the first half of the tournament, Royals mentor Shane Warne provided an update on the all-rounders availability for this years Indian Premier League. Read more

Irrfan Khans wife Sutapa has a message for messiah of outsiders: Irrfan didnt get cover page for many years, he didnt get depressed

Actor Irrfan Khans wife Sutapa Sikdar has shared a long note on how she looks at the insider-outsider debate that has been raging in the industry for a few years now. Citing her own example as an amalgamation of varied cultures and ethos, Sutapa said her late husband Irrfan did not seek approval of anyone in Bollywood. Read more

Maruti Suzuki continues recovery process, small cars show the way in September

Maruti Suzuki on Thursday informed it had sold 160,442 units in September, a 30.8% growth over the same period in 2019. And once again, a positive demand for its smaller offerings are the main driving force in a market that is gradually recovering from the after-effects of the nation-wide lockdown to check the spread of Covid-19. Read more

Womans happy reaction after being hired was secretly caught on camera. Video is as wholesome as it sounds

A video of a womans reaction after being hired is the wholesome content you didnt know you needed today but you do. Shared on Instagram, the clip captures how the woman reacted once she walked outside the office building after getting the job. Watch

I did what corrupt media refused to do: Trump on first Presidential debate

US President Donald Trump attacked his Democratic challenger Joe Biden after the first presidential debate. While addressing an election rally in Minnesotas Duluth, Trump said, Last night I did what the corrupt media has refused to do, I held Joe Biden accountable for his 47 years of lies, 47 years of betrayal and 47 years of failure. Watch
Hundreds of sexual abuse victims who received meagre sums of money from the Catholic Church in exchange for their silence could now seek larger compensation payouts after a judge overturned one survivor's settlement with the church.

The man, a former altar boy known as WCB, was paid $32,500 in 1996 by the church after he was repeatedly sexually abused by Warragul priest Daniel Hourigan.

Daniel Hourigan.

On Wednesday, the Supreme Court overturned the deed of release in a landmark ruling, removing the legal barriers for WCB to sue the Catholic Church for damages.

Justice Andrew Keogh described the abuse as "horrendous" and said the evidence supported a "significant assessment of damages" for WCB.
NEW YORK, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- William Benson is Billionaires Row Adult Beverages: The founder and CEO of Billionaires Row Cuvee XO Cognac and Billionaires Row Fine Champagnes. The first and only American to have his name on a Champagne Brand approved by the Prestigious Comite Interprofessionnel du vin de Champagne in France, Benson banks on the best of the best.

BILLIONAIRES ROW BRUT ROSE GRAN CRU CHAMPAGNE WILLIAM L BENSON BR CUVEE XO COGNAC

Dubbed the "Brand Whisperer" by Adult Beverage Trend Magazine, BevStrat COO Brian Rosen is regarded globally as the leading authority in the three-tier system, retail off-premise, marketing, merchandising, e-commerce, and go to market strategy for the adult beverage space in any tier.

"Brian and I developed a powerful personal relationship that gave me an insight into his business philosophy and acumen," Billionaires Row CEO William Benson.

Rosen, Chief Operating Officer at BevStrat, provides CEO Benson's Billionaires Row with a new marketing strategy: America's leading brand sales and marketing firm for beverage brands under 100,000 cases in market working directly with the Brand.

As BevStrat COO Brian Rosen put it, "betting on the Billionaires Row brand is like betting on Jordan."

BevStrat engages more than 200 people in 22 states as boots on the ground to support traditional and non-traditional distribution vital for propelling Billionaires Row Champagnes and Billionaires Row Brandy into leading Luxury Brands.

BevStrat

Billionaires Row

@billionairesrow

SOURCE Billionaires Row, LLC
Union Home Minister and senior BJP leader Amit Shah is likely to visit West Bengal before Durga Puja to look into the party's organisational aspects ahead of state assembly polls due in 2021, its state president Dilip Ghosh said on Thursday. BJP national president J P Nadda is likely to visit the state after the Pujas to be held later this month, he said.

Amid murmurs of discontent in BJP's Bengal satrap, Shah along with Nadda held a meeting with the top brass of the state unit on Thursday and discussed various organisational issues. "Today we had an organisational meeting with Amit ShahJi and J P Nadda Ji. We discussed various issues related toour growth in the state. Most likely Amit Shah Ji will come to Bengal for an organisational meeting with other party leaders state-level leaders. The date of his visit will be announced later," Ghosh said after the closed-door meet.

The date of Nadda's visit to West bengal is yet to be decided, he said. According to sources in BJP, during their visit both Shah and Nadda will take stock of the organisational situation of the state unit and also ground level political situation in Bengal.

"Our party leadership has big plans for Bengal. After our spectacular success in the Lok Sabha polls in 2019nearly one crore people of Bengal had registered for the party's membership during its nationwide campaign. Bengal is one of the focus states of the party," they said. The organisational restructuring of BJP's central unit had sparked off discontent in the Bengal unit as senior leaderRahul Sinha, who was dropped as the national secretary, expressed his anger over being left out.

Sinha too had been asked to present at the meeting held this afternoon. He declined to comment when asked whether the meeting discussed his grievances.

"I will wait for 10-12 days before announcing my next line of action," he had said earlier. Announcing a new team of the party's national office bearers on Saturday, the BJP had named Mukul Roy as a vice-president, and Anupam Hazra, a former TMC MP who had joined the saffron party in March 2019, as a secretary.

Roy, once considered the number two in the TMC next to its supremo Mamata Banerjee, had switched over to the BJPin 2017 following differences with her.
RICHMOND, Va. - Virginia voters will decide next month whether to approve a constitutional amendment creating a bipartisan commission to draw political boundaries in hopes of ending partisan and racial gerrymandering.

"Amendment #1," as it appears on general election ballots, would shift the task of redistricting from the governor and General Assembly to a panel made up of both lawmakers and citizens.

One other proposed constitutional amendment also appears on the Virginia ballot: To allow military veterans on 100 percent disability to exclude a single car or pickup truck from personal property taxes. Fully disabled veterans are already exempt from Virginia real estate taxes on their primary residence, thanks to an amendment passed a decade ago.

Politicians from both major parties long have promised to create a better system for redistricting in Virginia, which draws new boundaries every 10 years but has seen recent Republican-led efforts overturned in federal court as racially gerrymandered.

The proposed amendment was advanced by Republicans last year when they were the legislature's majority party and has caused a rift among Democrats who are now in control of the General Assembly.

The state Democratic Party officially opposes it, and most Democrats in the House of Delegates voted against it in this year's legislative session. But nine Democrats in the House and all but two in the Senate joined Republicans in supporting the amendment.

"I think we're a big tent party," state Democratic chairwoman Susan Swecker said this week when asked about the split. "But I'm not sure everybody took a real hard look at this . . . The bottom line is it's not nonpartisan redistricting."

House Minority Leader Del. Todd Gilbert, R-Shenandoah, has been charging Democrats with "hypocrisy" for their wavering on the amendment and urging support for it on social media.

"Don't let politicians rig the district maps and choose their voters rather than the other way around," he said last month on Facebook. "Amendment 1 will take redistricting out of the smoke filled rooms and into the light of day where citizens can see how it happens."

Amendment supporters charge that some Democrats would rather use their newfound majorities to draw maps that will favor their party. Political boundaries for the state legislature and congressional seats will be redrawn next year using data from this year's U.S. Census.

"The majority party always opposes reform, like clockwork. It's predictable," said Brian Cannon, who heads a group called Fair Maps VA, an offshoot of the nonpartisan groupOneVirginia 2021 that promotes the amendment. Fair Maps VA will have spent about $2 million since July on urging Virginians to vote "yes," Cannon said.

The plan contained in the amendment would create a 16-member commission that includes eight lawmakers - two from the House and two from the Senate appointed by Democratic leaders, and the same number appointed by Republicans in both chambers.

The other eight members would be citizens appointed by a panel of five retired circuit court judges. The panel of judges would be appointed from a list created by the Supreme Court of Virginia, with four chosen by both parties in the General Assembly and the fifth chosen by the judges themselves.

The judges would select the citizen commissioners from lists compiled by both parties in the General Assembly. The full commission would then choose one of its citizen members as chairman.

Once the commission comes up with a set of maps, the General Assembly would vote on the plan as submitted, with no changes. If that vote fails, the commission would try again. If the General Assembly still doesn't approve, the state Supreme Court would draw the maps.

Virginia law requires a proposed constitutional amendment to be approved in the General Assembly for two consecutive years before going to the voters. When Republicans made this proposal in 2019, all but a handful of Democrats supported it.

But this year, as it was up for a second vote, most Democrats in the House rebelled. Some members of the Black Caucus complained that the amendment does not require diverse representation on the commission and does not incorporate language from the federal Voting Rights Act laying out guidelines for racial equity.

Opponents also note that the commission's structure would allow two members of one party to block a proposed map. They also dislike allowing the state Supreme Court to resolve a stalemate, arguing that most of the justices have been appointed by Republican majorities in the legislature.

"It empowers partisan leaders and enshrines this power into the constitution," said Del. Lamont Bagby, D-Henrico, chairman of the Black Caucus. And because the amendment contains no explicit instructions about equal representation, "it does absolutely nothing to end gerrymandering based on race or party," Bagby said.

The Virginia conference of the NAACP came out against the amendment this week, citing similar concerns.

Cannon counters that while the amendment doesn't contain specific language from federal law, it instructs the commission to follow the principles set out by both the Voting Rights Act and the Fourteenth Amendment guaranteeing equal protection.

"For the first time ever in Virginia history, racial gerrymandering would be illegal in the state constitution," Cannon said.

He also pointed out that under the current system, if the minority party filed suit against a new map the case would go to the Virginia Supreme Court anyway.

"Here's how it compares to the current system: It's an improvement," Cannon said. Though a lifelong Democrat, he said he has no faith in politicians of either party to handle redistricting directly. "I don't trust them not to gerrymander or to do something better because they haven't proven that they could."
- The CEO of NIA has disclosed that the Ghana Card can be used to access services

- Professor Ken Attafuah also added that it can be used to make business transactions anywhere in Ghana

- He added that some institutions are yet to come on board to accept the Ghana cards

Our manifesto: This is what YEN.com.gh believes in

The Chief Executive of the National Identification Authority (NIA), Professor Ken Attafuah, has revealed that the Ghana Card can now be used to access services and make business transactions anywhere in Ghana.

According to a report filed by Ghanaweb.com, he revealed that the NIA is still in talks with some key entities to come on board and fully accept the new card.

Prof Attafuah said the authority is in talks with the Communications Ministry to ensure the players in the telco industry all come on board.

Ghana Card ready to be used to transact business - NIA announces Source: National Identification Authority

Source: UGC

"In the first week of October, the technical system will be ready and the service can now happen," he said.

Prof Attafuah has stated that without one would be excluding himself socially, economically, and politically without the card."

The Ghana Card is an identity card that is issued to Ghanaian citizens both resident and non-resident, and legally and permanently foreign national residents.

It is proof of identity, citizenship and residence of the holder.

In other news, , popular Kumawood actor, Agya Koo, has declared the New Patriotic Party (NPP), and its leader Nana Akufo-Addo, as the only party and leader who can move Ghana forward.

He said Akufo-Addo has all that is needed to take Ghana to the promised land.

Thus, he urged Ghanaians to vote for the party and ensure that the president retains the power to continue with the good works.

According to him, the president has many good plans for the nation and for the people to benefit fully, he must be voted for to remain in power to continue working.

Agya Koo said after analysing all that the NPP and the president have promised Ghanaians, he is one hundred percent convinced that being voted for to retain power is the best thing Ghanaians can do.

YEN is building a platform where Ghanaians can share local news and own experiences with each other. Witnessing an incident?

Want to tell about a local problem? Know someone who is extremely talented and needs recognition?

Your stories and photos are always welcome. Send us a message via Instagram or on YENs official Facebook page.

Source: YEN.com.gh
A Yaskawa Electric Corp. employee monitors a Motoman robot operating on the servomotor assembly line at the company's Solution Factory in Iruma, Saitama Prefecture, Japan, on Monday, Dec. 3, 2018.

Japan's factory activity posted its longest streak of declines on record in September, a private sector survey showed on Thursday, highlighting the struggle policymakers face to put the coronavirus-ravaged economy on a firm recovery path.

The health crisis has taken a huge toll on the manufacturing sector in the world's third-largest economy, with output and exports struggling amid fragile global demand conditions.

The final au Jibun Bank Japan Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index edged up to 47.7 in September from the previous month's 47.2 and a preliminary 47.3 reading.

The headline index stayed below the 50.0 threshold that separates contraction from expansion for a 17th month  surpassing a 16-month run through June 2009 to mark the longest streak of declines on record.

The survey showed output, new orders and work backlog contracted again, although at a more modest pace, suggesting it may take a long time for Japan's economy to fully recover from the massive impact of the Covid-19 crisis.

However, the PMI survey also provided encouraging evidence of the manufacturing sector moving a step closer to stabilization in September.

"Subdued business conditions persisted across the Japanese manufacturing sector in September, but there were signs that the downturn has lost intensity," said Tim Moore, economics director at IHS Markit.

"Some manufacturers noted that a turnaround in export sales to clients elsewhere in Asia had helped to offset some of the demand weakness across Europe and the United States."

The survey boosted hopes of a long-term recovery in production volumes, with growth expectations for the year ahead rising to the highest since May 2018.

Japan's economy suffered its worst postwar contraction in the second quarter as the health crisis delivered a heavy blow to international trade, while also paralyzing business and consumer activity at home.
Update: Springfield Mayor Domenic J. Sarno announced Thursday that Darryl Moss has been fired. Read more here.

Standing before a large crowd of supporters outside Springfield City Hall Wednesday, community activist and mayoral aide Darryl Moss publicly addressed an investigation into his use of social media and the need for representation in government.

More important than voting, we have to put ourselves in the position to be voted for, Moss told the crowd. So, Ill close with this, prepare to vote for me.

He didnt specify which seat he is considering.

The announcement came amid an investigation into his personal Facebook page and whether a recent post violated the citys social media policy.

This is equal to a declaration of war... but this is America! Sundown Sunrise [expletive] Country, Moss wrote alongside a headline from a Huffington Post article regarding President Trump expressing support for Kyle Rittenhouse, a 17-year-old facing multiple homicide charges in connection with a shooting that left two people dead and a third seriously injured during protests in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

Tagging a fellow Springfield resident, Moss ended the post, Yo, Keshawn Dodds, grab the rifles!

In a statement read on Moss' behalf, he said this Facebook post was an allusion to the HBO show Lovecraft Country, set in the 1950s.

Sundown Sunrise was a reference to the era of segregation during which Black Americans were allowed in all-white communities during the day and faced the threat of violence or arrest after sundown.

Keshawn Dodds, executive director of the Boys and Girls Club Family Center called the investigation a public assassination and a humiliation. (Douglas Hook / MassLive)

Through the statement read aloud on his behalf, Moss said this cultural context on the post was missing from media coverage earlier this week.

An article was published on Monday with the headline, Springfield mayoral aide, community activist Darryl Moss under investigation for alleged violation of citys social media policy.

The article addresses the investigation in Moss' recent Facebook post and the citys social media policy.

Springfield created a social media policy in recent years after Springfield Police Officer Conrad Lariviere was fired for mocking a protester killed by a driver during an anti-police violence protest in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Hahahaha love this, maybe people shouldnt block road ways, Lariviere wrote in a Facebook comment on a news article about the crash.

Lariviere was fired, a decision he challenged last year though his termination was upheld.

Springfield Mayor Domenic J. Sarno released a statement confirming the investigation into Moss' use of social media.

It has been brought to my attention that Darryl Moss, one of my staff members, has allegedly violated our social media policy, Sarno said in a message to other department heads late Friday afternoon. As we have done with other similar cases, I am asking for a complete review and investigation of the matter. I will personally be involved in this review as this is a member of my staff.

Moss has not been placed on administrative leave, William Baker, a spokesman for the mayor, said on Monday.

In days since, members of Springfields Black community have rallied behind Moss.

The individual tagged in the post, Keshawn Dodds, executive director of the Boys and Girls Club Family Center in Springfield called the investigation a public assassination and a humiliation of a man who loves the city and has "literally risked his life to save people on many, many occasions.

His words were taken out of context and he was treated like a thug, a criminal, Dodds said.

Dodds was one of several who spoke on Moss' behalf Wednesday.

Springfield City Councilor Tracye Whitfield spoke of the resources the investigation is taking away from issues like making sure that we have fair and just system that we can trust in the City of Springfield because right now is not that. (Douglas Hook / MassLive)

At-large City Councilor Tracye Whitfield accused some in city government of using this investigation to take attention off the DOJ report, referencing a report released by the U.S. Department of Justice in August accusing the citys narcotics unit of routinely using excessive force and doctoring reports.

Youre using resources to target and attack my brother, Darryl, said Whitfield. When Darryl does nothing but help the community.

Bishop Talbert Swan, president of the Greater Springfield NAACP, spoke of the deep divide between the citys police department and its majority-minority population and called for the resignation of police commissioner Cheryl Clapprood.

Five days before the DOJ report came out, Commissioner Clapprood sent me an email and told me, Bishop, we dont have a problem with police brutality in Springfield, we have a problem with young black boys in gangs. Five days before the DOJ report, said Swan. She stood in a press conference with the mayor and said the recommendations of the DOJ [the police department are] already working on.

How in the hell could you already be working on mitigating police brutality when five days before that you said it didnt exist in our city, Swan pointed out.

Bishop Talbert Swan, president of the NAACP indirectly referenced the mayor, saying, We will stand by him and we will challenge your administration. (Douglas Hook / MassLive)

Swan said that the gap between the citys majority-minority community and the police was bridged by Moss. He said Moss served as a irreplaceable liaison for city hall.

If you decide to terminate him - and I want to tell you, if you decide to do anything with Darryl Moss - well be back. Therell be more of us than whos here now and trust me, my brothers and sisters. We will not stand idly by and allow you to mistreat this gentleman and allow you to do wrong by him.

Moss and the other speakers told MassLive that they would not be answering questions after the press conference.

Swan indirectly referenced the mayor, saying, We will stand by him and we will challenge your administration

Related Content:
ABECs Custom Single Run (CSR) technology to support production of ~1 billion doses of Novavax COVID-19 vaccine

ABEC, a leading global provider of integrated solutions and services for biopharmaceutical manufacturing based in the US, has announced it is supporting Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd. (SIIPL) in Pune by delivering six 4,000L CSR bioreactors for the manufacturing of Novavax COVID-19 vaccine candidate, NVXCoV2373.

Serum Institute, the worlds largest vaccine manufacturer by number of doses, will utilize ABECs single-use technologies to advance a global supply of NVXCoV2373 throughout India and low- and middle-income countries.

Serum Institutes new facility will be the largest single-use bioreactor-based vaccine manufacturing line in the world. ABECs 4,000L CSR single-use bioreactors are the largest in the industry by a factor of two, allowing Serum Institute to double productivity per unit floorspace and achieve the lowest possible cost per dose.

Leveraging its global presence, ABEC is manufacturing the single-use bioreactors and disposable containers (DC) in its US and Ireland facilities to meet Serum Institutes accelerated schedule. ABECs multi-site global ISO-7 cleanrooms ensure a robust supply chain with the industrys shortest DC lead times, enabling Serum Institute to begin production in early 2021.
A first information report (FIR) was filed against Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra under the pandemic law and Section 144 over Thursdays march towards Hathras.

The Congress leaders were going to visit the family member of the Dalit woman who was gangraped in Hathras when they were detained by Uttar Pradesh Police. A fortnight after her rape, the 19-year-old victim died in a Delhi hospital on Tuesday.

The Gandhis were detained as they were walking to their destination after their vehicles were stopped at Yamuna Expressway, citing imposition of Section 144.

An FIR for violation of criminal procedure code (CrPC) 144 (the section imposed for not allowing the gathering of more than four people) as well as the violation of pandemic act was lodged against Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and unknown protestors, Gautambuddhanagar Commissioner of Police Alok Singh said.

The Gandhi siblings were taken away in a police jeep on Thursday evening and kept in a guest house for sometime. Then, they were released and escorted back to Delhi by the UP police.

The Congress had claimed that the leaders were arrested by the police. Shri Rahul Gandhi, Smt Priyanka Gandhi and senior Congress leaders have been arrested by the UP police, the party said on Twitter.
PHS & Taconic Students Recruited as Poll Workers for Election

PITTSFIELD, Mass.  You may notice a younger population working at the polls in Pittsfield this November.

About 23 students from Pittsfield and Taconic high schools have been recruited as poll workers for the fall election because of an increase in demand.

Back in June at the end of the school year, City Clerk Michele Benjamin got in touch with Pittsfield High School teacher Heather Tierney over her concern about a lack of poll workers. This is when they had the idea to recruit high school students.

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, more hands are needed at each polling station to ensure that everything is sanitized and federal and state health guidelines are followed. Also, more than 50 percent of the national population of poll workers are older than 60 years and are at high risk to the novel coronavirus.

As of early September, 250,000 new poll workers were needed nationwide. Last week, CNBC stated that a total of about 900,000 poll workers are needed across the United States for voting to run smoothly. Without a sufficient amount of poll workers, lines would be extremely long and polling sites without workers may be closed.

Long lines and fewer voting sites run the risk of disenfranchising voters, who may opt out of voting.

Benjamin said the recruitment of high school students means there will be "more than enough" poll workers. She said had Pittsfield removed from an email list of locations that need more workers because every position has been filled.

"We're not taking new election workers," she said on Wednesday. "We're taking their applications and putting them on a sub list, but right now we would love to go with the same kids from November and, possibly in future years, get a new group of kids when these age out, become adults, and move on with their own lives."

Benjamin credits most of the recruitment to Tierney, saying, "Heather worked her tail off, and I want to give her credit for what she did."

They first ran it by Superintendent of Schools Jacob McCandless, who responded that it was a great idea. Benjamin and Tierney had previously worked together on a couple of projects involving registering students to vote once they turn 18. Benjamin said she knew Tierney would be great to work with on this because she is good at getting students engaged in politics.

The first students to be recruited were senior members of the PHS Class Council 2021. When first recruited, they believed they would be working on a volunteer basis and were enthusiastic about becoming poll workers.

"Once we got a hold of them they were very excited about the opportunity," Tierney said. "So it made it pretty easy to convince them to work."

The students were paid a stipend for their work, but Benjamin described it as a "little added bonus" since they didn't know they would be paid. They didn't work the polls for the money, she said, because they didn't even know they would be. Rather the students did it because they wanted to be involved in the electoral process.

After being chosen by Tierney, which Benjamin stated was "passing the first test," they attended Zoom training along with all of the previous election workers. They will be filling spots as the chief election worker, warden, the clerk, and the four inspectors that check voters in and out.

Tierney says she has gotten positive feedback from the students regarding their experience working at the polls on Sept. 1.

"They really got a lot out of it," she said. "And I think they surprised themselves at how much fun they had and how interesting they found it. It also really engaged them in the process and if they were not registered to vote before, I'm sure they are now."

She also says these students are very engaged in the current political climate and in our immediate future as a country.

In response to COVID-19, the state changed age restrictions for poll workers to allow 16- and 17-year-olds to be eligible with a guardian's permission. Before, poll workers were required to be 18 years old and be a registered voter. This gives younger people the opportunity to learn about the voting process before they are of age, and in turn makes them more proficient voters when they turn 18.

Benjamin said the city will be receiving funds from the state to help cover the cost of the additional election workers. The state also ordered screen guards for every municipality in the state along with personal protective equipment and sanitizing materials. She said the state has also been very proactive in promoting social distancing and cleanliness.

She explained the extent at which everything needs to be sanitized at a polling site, including every single pen.

"You don't even think about it, normally you just pick up a pen in a voting booth and use it, but we made it so that at the check in you got a pen, and then you bring it to check out and it gets sanitized," Benjamin said, explaining the crucial role that additional poll workers play.

Benjamin and Tierney assure the public that voting is "totally safe" because of these extra workers and extra measures put into place.

"You shouldn't be nervous to go out and vote" Benjamin said. "We've taken all the precautions that we possibly can."
Frank Knapp is the President and CEO of the South Carolina Small Business Chamber of Commerce.
NRL star Josh Reynolds' ex-girlfriend Arabella Del Busso has spoken about her desire to fall in love.

The 30-year-old model told The Daily Telegraph on Thursday, she would like to find her perfect match and start a family of her own.

'I want to find love and I want to settle down and have kids and have my own family,' she said.

'I want to find love': Arabella del Busso (pictured) said she wants to 'settle down and have kids' - as she prepares to appear on Channel Seven's SAS Australia

Arabella was accused of faking a pregnancy during her tumultuous relationship with the NRL star.

She said: 'I didn't have that as a child so I want to give my kids something that I never had in life.'

Arabella's interview comes after it was announced she will be appearing on Channel Seven's upcoming series SAS Australia.

Future goals: The 30-year-old model said she would like to find her perfect match and start a family of her own

The military-style show will see the contestants having to endure sleep deprivation, interrogation techniques and physical challenges.

The lingerie model will be joined by a growing list of celebrities including convicted drug smuggler Schapelle Corby and publicist Roxy Jacenko.

Filming for SAS Australia begun earlier this year in Queenstown, New Zealand, but production was relocated to the NSW Snowy Mountains due to travel restrictions being enforced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Coming soon: Arabella's interview comes after it was announced she will be appearing on Channel Seven's upcoming series SAS Australia

Arabella last appeared on television in May, when she addressed her bitter split with Josh on Channel Nine's 60 Minutes.

During the interview, Arabella tearfully denied faking pregnancies and miscarriages during her tumultuous relationship with the footy star.

However, she did admit to passing off another woman's ultrasound scan as her own in order to 'spite' her then-boyfriend.
Mamata Banerjee upset after not being allowed to speak during PMs meet

Missionaries of Charity itself requested SBI to freeze all bank accounts: Govt

Mamata Banerjee on PM Modi's virtual hospital launch: We inaugurated it last year

Proposal to change rules for central deputation of IAS officers affects states' administration: Mamata to PM

Dont lower guard against COVID-19: Mamata to officials

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

Siliguri, Oct 01: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday asked officials not to lower guard despite decline in COVID-19 cases in Darjeeling hills and continue testing and tracing protocols in the region.

"The situation has improved in Darjeeling and Mirik.

But we need to keep a watch on the situation. We cannot lower guards, more because the festive season is coming," she said at an administrative review meeting here in Darjeeling district.

Common cold in past may provide protection from COVID-19: Study

Durga Puja committees should set up pandals with open spaces to prevent the spread of the virus, Banerjee said.

"I again urge Puja committees and the public to cooperate with the police and the administration in following all COVID-19 safety protocols. Everyone should wear a mask and use sanitiser before entering a pandal," she said.

About regularisation of 4,397 Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) employees, Banerjee said that such requests should be made after the Covid battle is over.

The CM said while 70 lakh Kisan Credit Cards have already been distributed in the state to help small and marginal farmers, 8 lakh such cards were still left to be given to them.

Common low-cost enzyme may potentially treat COVID-19: Study

Hathras sealed ahead of Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi's visit|Oneindia News

Banerjee said that 2,800 Sahayata Kendra will be set up across the state to help people get information about ration card, old age pension etc.

She provided Rs 10 crore as grant each to the Terai Dooars Board and the Adivasi Board and Rs 150 crore to the GTA.

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Thursday, October 1, 2020, 9:33 [IST]
HRPro/BenePro Through the first half of 2020, the Best and Brightest Companies to Work For have demonstrated leadership and forward thinking as they pivoted their business and workforce through COVID-19." - Jennifer Kluge, President and CEO, Best and Brightest Programs

Every year companies throughout Metropolitan Detroit compete to be named one of Metropolitan Detroits Best and Brightest Companies to Work For. Only companies that distinguish themselves as having the most innovative and thoughtful human resources approach can be bestowed this honor. These select companies will be honored on Tuesday, October 27, 2020 on a digital platform that the honorees will log into.

The winning companies will compete for 13 elite awards, one granted for each category. Also, an overall winner that has excelled in all categories will be honored with a Best of the Best Overall award. The elite award winners will be revealed during the digital presentation. All companies, no matter their size, can be a Best and Brightest Company to Work For resulting in Better Business, Richer Lives and Stronger Communities.

An independent research firm evaluates each companys entry based on key measures in various categories. They include Compensation, Benefits and Employee Solutions; Employee Enrichment, Engagement and Retention; Employee Education and Development; Recruitment, Selection and Orientation; Employee Achievement and Recognition; Communication and Shared Vision; Diversity and Inclusion; Work-Life Balance; Community Initiatives; Strategic Company Performance and the Best of the Best Small Business, Medium Business and Large Business.

Through the first half of 2020, the Best and Brightest Companies to Work For have demonstrated leadership and forward thinking as they pivoted their business and workforce through COVID-19. As the conversation and focus has shifted, our Best and Brightest winning companies have also been a voice for important actions regarding Race. It is in these unique times, the Best and Brightest Companies to Work For excel and share their knowledge with others," said Jennifer Kluge, President and CEO, Best and Brightest Programs

The annual symposium and awards program this year will be a digital event due to the COVID-19 virus and will begin at 1:30 p.m. The digital awards presentation is emceed Devin Scillian of WDIV Local4 News & Tom Jordan of WWJ Newsradio 950. The awards presentation will adjourn at 2:30 p.m.

About HRPro/BenePro

HRPro/BenePro, the People Pros are one of Michigan's top HR and benefit advisory and administration firms, offering an integrated people solution for small to mid-sized companies. HRPro/BenePro strives to create a fun, collaborative culture that puts an emphasis on customer relationships and personalized service. With over 30 years experience, they are constantly working to stay ahead of latest trends and needs in the industry. Their mission is to work closely with organizations to understand and help them achieve their human capital goals. For more information visit the companys website at http://www.hrpro.com/hrpro_benepro/
Yesterday, the whole world was glued on various Media networks to catch a glimpse of the Presidential debate between charismatically blunt Donald Trump versus cognitively senile Joe Biden! Were there calls on Biden to do a cognitive test?

Prior to the event, notwithstanding a well-orchestrated media contrivance to give the proverbial dog (Donald Trump) a bad name in order to hang him: nobody gave sleeping Joe a dog's chance in hell in this Presidential debate. At least not in their conscience. Not even the fake news conduits!

Old Joe is just media work! His support base was just hoping against hope that maybe, just maybe, Joe may pull an upset. It was the prayer of all Democrats on Joe's campaign trail that the benevolent one injects Biden with one of those rare bouts of consciousness that keeps appearing and disappearing willy nilly.

And the prayer of the overzealous and ardent supporters of old Joe that he doesn't slip into his usual fevers of incoherence and mental befuddlement!

However, all these wishes weren't horses! Donald Trump stole the show - in fact, he was the cynosure of attraction as he very eloquently defended his track record and inimitable leadership! Brimming with characteristic confidence Trump lucidly espoused the roadmap he has for America.

I have heard the weird and wild claim by People that Trump is rude and bullish; who said the presidency is a monastery!

My cut I have taken away from this presidential debate and the Trump factor is that the world has become so cowardly that she fears to call things by their right names and anybody who dares stands out and says things, as they are, is often assailed by an avalanche of criticism and name-calling!

We need many more Trumps if this world is to revert to its timeless ideals of truth, candour, and honesty! The world's problems will never get away if we continue massaging around issues instead of attacking them head-on!

The Fixation of the world on political correctness is the bane of our times!

The foregoing, nonetheless, I believe Joe Biden deserves accolades for agreeing, even if timidly, to debate Trump! It is a mark of statesmanship!

Americans are lucky that both Trump and Joe agreed to debate, aren't they?

In faraway Ghana, a debate doesn't seem likely since one of the leading presidential candidates, who is touring the country with his Presidential chair, has stated with a stiff upper lip that he is not debating anybody!

##My bet is on the Trump card to win with a resounding majority.

Trump to win in America; Mahama to win in Ghana.
Rajesh Kumar Thakur By

Express News Service

PATNA: In a first, unidentified miscreants steal half a dozen of original manuscripts of renowned Hindi litterateur Phanishwar Nath Renu from his Patna-based residence on Tuesday night.

According to Renus daughter Nivedita Sinha, only the original hand written manuscripts of her father Phanishwar Nath Renu, who wrote the Hindis masterpieces like Maila Anchal, Palatu Babu Road and other literary works were stolen.

In January of this year, the first property that was stolen, worth Rs 8 lakhs, was commited in the Renu Memorial Bhawan at Renus village Auranhi in Forebisganj district.

Sinha said that the original hand written manuscripts of a book on election written by Renu was also stolen.

The miscreants did not take any other household items except the manuscripts of Renus books, which were preserved in the almirahs at his residence in Patnas Rajendranagar colony.

Nishikant Nishi-SHO of Kadamkuan police said that investigation has started after lodging a case.

Renus daughter told the media those original copies of Maila Aanchal, Palatu Babu Road, Parati fairy tale and the Kagaj Ke Jahah (paper boat) are among other manuscripts stolen.

The theft was commited when there was no family member in the house.
OBU students are invited to attend three upcoming virtual career fairs Oct. 6-8, hosted by the Universitys Career Development office.

Students Invited to Attend Virtual Career Fairs Oct. 6-8 October 1, 2020

OBU students are invited to attend three upcoming virtual career fairs, hosted by the Universitys Career Development office. Upcoming fairs include a summer camp recruitment fair, a career and internship fair, and a graduate school fair. Students may register to attend the events in the OBU Career Portal.

OBUs Career Development Office provides career assessment services, information concerning job opportunities for students and alumni, and opportunities to connect with employers and graduate schools. Their services help lead OBUs graduates to outstanding outcomes. In fact, in a survey of 2018-19 graduates taken six months following graduation (the most recent data set available), 95 percent of graduates were either employed, enrolled in graduate school, or both, while an additional four percent were working part-time or intentionally taking time off, leading to a 99 percent overall placement rate.

Virtual fairs will take place each day Oct. 6-8. A summer camp recruitment fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 6. The next day, Oct. 7, the University will host a virtual career and internship fair for all majors from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The last fair of the week will take place Thursday, Oct. 8, when the graduate school fair kicks off at 10 a.m. and concludes at 2 p.m.

Each virtual fair will feature a group session as well as one-on-one chats with prospective employers and recruiters for 5 to 15 minutes each. The group sessions will include an overview of the organizations or companies, available roles and frequently asked questions. Students are encouraged to RSVP and have a resume ready before attending a virtual fair. The resources tab in the Career Portal provides information on how to prepare for a virtual career fair and how to prepare a great resume.

Students interested in working at a summer camp should attend the virtual summer camp recruitment fair Oct. 6. The fair will feature representatives from Base Sports, Camp Akiva, Camp Huawni, Camp Olympia, Camp War Eagle, Glorieta Camps and Shiloh Camp.

The virtual career and internship fair Oct. 7 is for all majors seeking part-time, full-time or internship positions. The fair will feature representatives from Eide Bailly LLP, FDIC, GuideStone Financial Resources, Marian University Accelerated Nursing Program, Natalie Arnett State Farm, Northwestern Mutual, OU-TU School of Community Medicine, Paycom, ProScribe, SSM Health St. Anthonys Hospital, The Childrens Center Rehabilitation Hospital, The Friends of Israel Gospel Ministry, Thrivent Financial, and Woodstock Community Church.

Students looking for the right graduate school should attend the graduate school fair Oct. 8. The fair will feature representatives from OBU, Arkansas Tech University, Baylor Universitys Truett Theological Seminary, Dallas Theological Seminary, Marian University, New Orleans Baptist Theological University, OSU College of Osteopathic Medicine, Oral Roberts University, OU-MBA, University of Tulsa College of Law, and Wheaton College Graduate School.
Photo credit: Haywood Magee

From Harper's BAZAAR

When NAMESldn launched in July this year, it aimed to educate white people about Black history and spotlight Black creativity and talent. The interactive 360 virtual showroom not only championed accomplished artists, authors and speakers, but it also offered recommendations for educational resources for those who want to become better allies.

"As a white person and person of certain privilege, I recognise that this is my fight to make up for the atrocities of the past and stand with minorities as we fight to abolish discrimination in our current society," says NAMESldn founder Richard Thornn.

Why is it that white people always turn to our friends of colour when it comes to teaching? It is not their responsibility. It is ours.

Black children make up 17% of the 0-15 age group (ONS) in the UK and schools need do more to represent them in their curriculum. With only 11% of GCSE students studying optional Black British history modules, it is more important than ever for schools to raise the profile on historical Black events.

As a friend of NAMESldn, I've rounded up 10 key facts and moments in Black British history to get your education started.



1.The first Britons were dark skinned

The first Britons had dark to Black skin, curly hair and blue eyes. This was proven after DNA analysis of a 10,000-year-old skeleton (Britain's oldest complete skeleton), known as Cheddar Man, located in Somerset's Cheddar Gorge. He was found to have had dark curly hair and either dark or Black skin, suggesting that the idea of Europeans as having fair skin is a recent phenomena. People of white British ancestry today are descendants of the Mesolithic hunters like Cheddar Man.

Photo credit: JUSTIN TALLIS

2. The Roman Empire was multicultural (27BC - 476AD)

At the Roman Empire's peak, it stretched far and wide from north-western Europe to North Africa and into the Near East. People were known to have travelled widely across the empire. By the 3rd century, there is evidence of African people making their way to Britain where they lived as soldiers, slaves or even free men and women.

Story continues

3. There were Black Tudors (1485 - 1603) and Stuarts (1603 - 1714)

Slavery was not the start of the Black community's experience in England. The African diaspora traces to the 18th century; these people came to England from Africa, Europe and the Caribbean with privateers, pirates, merchants, aristocrats and royalty. They lived and worked at different levels of society - some found paid work as porters and trumpeters, while others were present at the royal courts of Henry VII, Henry VIII, Elizabeth I and James I. That's not to say that Briton was multicultural during this period - Miranda Kaufmann, who wrote the book Black Tudors: An Untold Story, found around 360 individuals from 1500-1640. However, her research does prove that Black people were a part of Tudor life, and that they lived freely.

Photo credit: Courtesy

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4. The impact of the British Empire (1490s - 1960s)

Britain has invaded 90% of the world, according to research published by The Guardian. The empire stretched into every part of the world although now only 17 countries remain part of the British commonwealth. The advantages of the former empire are a multicultural society - the UK still reaps the benefits of the new foods and rare materials that were brought to England at this time, from Indian and Chinese food to tea. Black people and exports from predominantly Black countries have shaped British society.

5. The grim reality of the Transatlantic Slave Trade (1640 - 1833)

Britain had 46,000 slave owners, as reported by the BBC, who grew rich through buying and selling slaves for sugar production. Even Black babies were sold. Slaves were eventually freed after William Wilberforce led the abolitionist crusade against slavery that contributed to the slavery abolition act (1833). The equivalent of 17 billion was raised in compensation money, yet none of this was given to the enslaved people. Instead, it was given to Britain's slave owners for 'loss of human property.'

Photo credit: Universal History Archive

6. Olaudah Equiano kickstarted the UK anti-slavery movement (1745 - 1797)

Nigerian-born Olaudah Equiano wrote a book in 1789 about his own slavery that became a best-seller. The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano, or Gustavus Vassa, the African is one of the earliest-known examples of published writing by an African writer to be widely read in England, and latterly in the US, Russia, Holland and Germany. Eventually, in 1766, he bought his freedom and helped abolish slavery. His account of the horrors of slavery was among the first of its kind, and helped create an anti-slavery movement Britain, Europe and the New World.

7. The Windrush Generation and the consequent scandal (1948 -1971)

Potentially 500,000 workers (University of Oxford) came from Jamaica, Trinidad, Tobago and other islands were invited to come to the UK to fill post-war labour shortages. Windrush refers to the ship MV Empire Windrush, which docked in Tilbury on 22 June 1948, that they travelled on. The 1971 Immigration Act gave Commonwealth citizens who were already living in the UK indefinite leave to remain.

In 2018, a scandal emerged after a tightening of the immigration rules - despite having lived and worked in the UK for decades, these people were told they were there illegally because of a lack of official paperwork. The Home Office had kept no record of who was told they could stay in the UK, making it hard for Windrush arrivals to prove their status. Many were deported, while others had their employment and access to the NHS terminated. The government later apologised and a compensation scheme was established.

Windrush Square exists in Brixton to remember Windrush.

Photo credit: Douglas Miller

8. The time that the BBC endorsed minstrelsy in The Black and White Minstrel Show (1958 - 1978)

In the BBC's The Black and White Minstrel Show, people would wear blackface, sing, dance and act. It attracted audiences of 16 million, its stage show spin-offs broke records and in 1961, in even received critical acclaim, winning the prestigious Golden Rose of Montreux. In 1975, a teenage Lenny Henry appeared on the programme, proving how few opportunities there were then for Black performers.

The BBC ignored complaints from 1967 from Black Britons who criticised the blacking up at the shows centre. The broadcaster failed to recognise the show's abject racism nor how it could be seen as offensive and it wasn't pulled from air until 1978.

9. The 1980s riots

The riots that took place in England across the '80s are, 40 years on, considered a pivotal moment for Black communities. The uprisings against the police occurred first in Bristol in 1980, then in 1981 in Brixton and Liverpool.

The riots were a response to racist experiences from police raids that continue to spark debate even today.

Photo credit: Keystone

10. Modern migration from Africa (2001 - 2011)

Migrants from West Africa, mostly Nigerians and Ghanaians came into the UK, from 2001 to 2011. Some came to study and remained, while others migrated to join family or take up employment.

Many of those who arrived from Somalia, Zimbabwe and Sudan were refugees.

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Amy Ticknor, a flight attendant who is among the 19,000 people American Airlines is furloughing, spent Thursday filing for unemployment insurance and taking care of her 6-week-old and 2-year-old daughters. She also started searching for a full-time job  her husband is self-employed and her job provided the family with health insurance.

Ms. Ticknor, who is also on the seventh week of a 10-week maternity leave, said she had been heartened by the lobbying efforts of her union, the Association of Professional Flight Attendants, but was disappointed when it became clear on Wednesday that a second round of federal funding was unlikely.

It was devastating, Ms. Ticknor, 29, said. It was a real a blow to everything, my family life, my emotional well-being.

Southwest Airlines and Delta Air Lines, the countrys other two large national airlines, have avoided sweeping furloughs because of temporary leave and other voluntary programs, at least for now. More than 40,000 Delta workers signed up for short- and long-term unpaid leave. The company has said that it may still furlough about 1,700 pilots next month. Nearly 17,000 employees at Southwest have signed up for leaves, buyouts or early retirement, and the company has said it wont furlough any worker through the end of the year.

They have very, very strong corporate cultures and I think those cultures were on exhibit in how these airlines have been able to avoid the furloughs, said Henry Harteveldt, founder of Atmosphere Research Group, a travel analysis firm. Delta and Southwest were able to message more effectively.

American and United have each also taken out Treasury Department loans of more than $5 billion, which could grow to $7.5 billion each at the administrations discretion. Southwest and Delta declined the loans, which were authorized by the March stimulus law, the CARES Act. Across the industry, airlines have raised billions from a variety of sources.
UWs Cheadle Part of Group That Discovered Volcano on Indian Ocean Seafloor

Michael Cheadle, a UW associate professor of geology and geophysics, examines a rock sample recovered by a ROV submarine. Cheadle served as a geologist on the German research vessel R/V Sonne during part of March. The expedition mapped 6,000 miles of the Indian Ocean seafloor and included the discovery of a large volcano. (Marum, Universitat Bremen Photo)

Michael Cheadle recently had the opportunity to view a large volcano up close. The novelty is that it was underwater.

Cheadle, a University of Wyoming associate professor in the Department of Geology and Geophysics, was invited to be part of a research expedition that explored part of the seafloor of the Indian Ocean. Cheadle served as a geologist aboard a new German research vessel, called the R/V Sonne.

The research expedition, which took place during March, mapped nearly 6,000 square miles of the seafloor, an area slightly larger than the state of Connecticut, Cheadle says.

We discovered a large volcano, which was 18 miles long and 1 mile high, Cheadle says. It was interesting because we could clearly see that it was a volcano that exploded, like those we see on the continents, such as Mount St. Helens, for example. But this type of explosive eruption is quite rare at the bottom of the ocean. We named the volcano Mount Mahoney after a famous U.S. geologist who worked on undersea volcanoes.

During the mapping -- conducted at a resolution of 100 lateral feet -- of some of the least explored seafloor on Earth, Cheadle and other researchers were able to view and study various faults, individual lava flows and volcanic eruption cones in great detail. The group also mapped a push-up ridge in a transform fault, which is a fault where two tectonic plates slide past each other, much like the San Andreas Fault.

This helps us to understand how the Earths crust pulls apart at a midocean ridge, Cheadle explains. Here, the tectonic plates of the Earth pull apart at a very slow rate and, perhaps, give us an idea of what some of the topography of the Earth will look like when plate tectonics stop many millions of years in the future.

This sonar image is of Mount Mahoney (in red), a large undersea explosive volcano, that was mapped by the expedition on the Indian Ocean seafloor. The inset shows the Snowy Range at the same scale. Mount Mahoney is approximately 29 kilometers long, compared to the Snowy Range, which is 7 kilometers long. (Koepke, Marum, Universitat Bremen and Sato Image; inset from Google Earth)

The group named this push-up ridge the Nicolas Ridge, after a famous French geologist. As a matter of scientific protocol, the first people to see some of these features allows them to name the undersea mountain or feature, Cheadle says.

The research group members did not discover any new ocean species they could name, but did spot a number of well-known creatures -- rat-tail fish, sea cucumbers and barnacles -- as well as some very strange creatures such as crinoids, glass sponges, sea spiders and acorn worms.

There are only about 600 living species of crinoid, but the class was much more abundant and diverse in the past, Cheadle says. They really are living fossils, with the first fossil examples found in rocks from 480 million years ago. Contrast that with humans, who have only been around for about the last 6 million years.

Glass sponges have skeletons made of tiny particles of silica, which is the same material used to make glass. Glass sponges live attached to hard surfaces and consume small bacteria and plankton that they filter from the sea water.

Unlike past expeditions of which Cheadle has been a part, he says no active hydrothermal vents were located. However, the group did find evidence of recent hydrothermal activity. Buoyed by the positive clues, Cheadle says there is a plan to present a funding proposal to the German Science Foundation to go back and search for hydrothermal vents, which are fissures on the seafloor from which superheated water erupts. These vents often support exotic sea life, which may provide clues for the origin of life itself.

To observe the seafloor more closely, the group often used a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) or submarine, named Marum-Quest, that provided video of the seafloor from the ship as well as collected rock samples.

As a geologist, Cheadles duties included carrying out the structural analysis of all samples collected on the cruise; overseeing sample recovery from the Marum-Quest; providing commentary on ROV dives, which were broadcast live worldwide; serving as a member of the senior planning team; and conducting several lectures during the short course the group provided to students during the voyage home.

Crinoids (multiarmed creatures) and glass sponges (white colored) on the Indian Ocean seafloor are viewed from the ROV submarine Marum-Quest. (Marum, Universitat Bremen Photo)

Researchers aboard the Sonne came from the United States, China, Germany, Italy and the Philippines. The expedition was funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research in Germany and the American scientists by the National Science Foundation (NSF).

Cheadle, who was funded by NSF, was invited to be part of the research voyage by Juergen Koepke, a professor in the Institute of Mineralogy at Leibniz University-Hannover in Hannover, Germany. Koepke served as chief scientist during the expedition. Daniel Colwell, a UW masters student from Nebo, N.C., majoring in geology, is working on the rocks Cheadle collected during the cruise as part of a project, titled Understanding the End of Plate Tectonics on Earth-Like Planets. Colwell is currently funded by a Wyoming NASA Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) graduate research fellowship.

This voyage, which departed from South Africa, marked Cheadles 10th research expedition and his fifth to the Indian Ocean. The expedition, originally scheduled to run March 6-April 22, was halted March 21 due to COVID-19 developments around the world. While the ship was COVID-free, South Africa closed its ports. Trapped at sea with limited fuel, the research operation was halted, and the vessel sailed to Germany, a trip that took nearly a month, Cheadle says.

The most exciting part of the expedition is deciding where to explore next, Cheadle says. Imagine being the first person to explore the Snowy Range. Thats exactly what its like. The scientists decide where the ship goes to map and where to dive with the submarine. So, every day you get a new little part of a map that nobody has seen before, and then theres the excitement of trying to understand the geology it shows. And, based on that, where to go next.

For a video of the expedition, in which Cheadle provides some of the narration, go to www.youtube.com/watch?v=PAGh3WrDpyk.
The first commercially owned U.S. rocket is going to launch into space this Halloween, by way of NASA and Space X.

NASAs SpaceX Crew-1 flight mission, scheduled to launch on October 31, will carry NASA astronauts Michael Hopkins, Victor Glover, and Shannon Walker, as well as Soichi Noguchi of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, to the space station from NASAs Kennedy Space Center in Florida, according to a press release.

MORE ASTRONOMY, PLEASE: SpaceX plans to build luxury spaceport resort in a tiny Texas town

The group will be the first international team to fly a NASA-certified capsule owned and operated by an American company. It will also be the first time an international crew member has flown on a commercial spacecraft from U.S. soil. It will be SpaceX's second launch.

Michael Hopkins, commander of the Crew Dragon Spacecraft, was excited about the launch in a press conference held yesterday, September 29.

"Crew-1 is ready," Hopkins said during the press conference. "The crew and the training team has done an amazing job of getting this ready."

According to previous press releases, the rocket was initially supposed to launch no later than October 23, but was delayed due to the arrival of the Russian Soyuz, which is scheduled to launch from the Baikonur Cosmodrome on October 14.

The Crew Dragon astronauts will spend six months aboard the space stations orbiting laboratory complex as part of a science mission.

With the stress and woe that this year has brought on, it's no surprise what the rocket was named: Resilience.

"I think all of us can agree 2020 has been a challenging year, Hopkins said. Despite all of that, SpaceX, NASA has finished this amazing vehicle that is getting ready to go on its maiden flight. We hope that it provides something positive in your lives, and we hope that its an inspirationthat it shows when you work together, theres no limit to what you can achieve.

There will be a livestream of the historic launch available on NASA's website on October 31.
Police in Warren County are looking for a truck they say rear-ended a stopped car and pushed it into an oncoming van.

The crash was reported a little after 1 p.m. Saturday on Route 57 at Buttermilk Bridge Road in Washington Township.

A 32-year-old township woman driving a silver Hyundai Sonata was stopped on Route 57 West as she waited to turn left onto Buttermilk Bridge Road, township police said.

A tan Ford quad-cab pickup truck, pulling an open trailer with a Kubota orange skid steer on it, was driving on Route 57 West and crashed into the back of the Sonata, according to police.

The crash pushed the Sonata into the eastbound lane of Route 57, where it collided with a blue Dodge Caravan driven by a 61-year-old woman, also from Washington Township, police said.

The truck took off, police said. The drivers of the van and car were both injured, according to police.

The driver of the van was taken to St. Lukes Hospital Warren Campus and the driver of the Sonata was taken to Hunterdon Medical Center for treatment. Police did not know the extent of their injuries.

Washington Township police are looking for the truck, which should have some damage to its left front bumper and panel. Anyone with information about the truck or the crash is asked to call the department at 908-689-1111.

This vehicle towing equipment was involved in a motor vehicle accident on state highway 57 and Buttermilk Bridge Rd. on... Posted by Washington Township Police Department on Friday, October 2, 2020

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Sarah Cassi may be reached at scassi@lehighvalleylive.com.
To the editor:

I, along with many fellow college students, are learning virtually from home this semester. COVID-19 has thrown our lives into turmoil. I lost my grandpa to the virus this year, my fall 2020 semester at Michigan State University is completely online, and society has been permanently altered by this pandemic. Nobody had any of this planned. No one could predict anything like this could happen, but it did. The consequences of COVID-19 will be something that we will remember and learn from for the rest of our lives.

People my age feel depressed and overwhelmed by everything going on in the world these days. Many in our community should be at a college or university right now, but that would be during normalcy. As a graduate from Midland Public Schools and Delta College, I can hardly imagine the struggle that K-12 or community college students and staff are going through in this era of social distancing.

I felt obligated, as a college student learning virtually from home, to call on fellow students in the Greater Midland Area to vote. It does not matter if you are a high school or university student. Vote. If you are not registered, then look at the state government website since voting in Michigan has never been easier for young people.

This election will be very consequential, if not the most, in my generations lifetime. Every issue is on the ballot this year. To name a few: economic relief from COVID-19, climate change action, and equality. Young people have the moral obligation to vote. Let us show the country who we are and let our voices be heard. It is time to vote. Lets end the divisiveness in the White House and unite across party lines. Vote. I am calling on all students who read this to get their absentee ballots today since we have one super power and it is at the ballot box.

Everyone has the moral authority to get the youth vote out, so teachers and parents we need you to spread the word: Vote.

J.R. Nosal

Midland
FISA Transparency Reports Skip Unmasking Data for Crucial Time Around 2016 Election

Data on the unmasking of Americans in foreign intelligence reports for four months surrounding Election Day of 2016 is missing in several reports released by the Director of National Intelligence (DNI).

National Security Agency data collection under Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) is prohibited from targeting Americans. If it picks up information on Americans, the agency is supposed to mask their identities with generic identifiers such as U.S. person 1. Many senior government officials have the authority to request such identities unmasked, such as when its necessary to understand the intelligence.

The DNI releases annual reports that include overall statistics on how many personal identities have been unmasked each year.

The reports normally cover a calendar year, but for 2016, the DNI chose to report it from September 2015 to August 2016. The data for September to December of 2016 is missing.

The missing period is important because it was the time when the FBI ramped up its spying on Trump campaign aides and associates as part of an investigation into alleged collusion between the campaign and Russia to sway the election. Also, between Nov. 8, 2016, and Jan. 31, 2017, senior Obama administration officials made 49 unmasking requests that revealed the identity of Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn, then-incoming national security adviser to President-elect Donald Trump, the DNI told Congress in May.

The Russia investigation failed to establish that any such collusion occurred.

The DNI started to report the unmasking figures in 2016 in response to recommendations of the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board, a watchdog group set up by Congress in 2004.

For 2015, the DNI reported that the NSA released 654 U.S. person identities in response to unmasking requests (pdf). But the year after, the DNI acknowledged that this figure was actually the number of requests, which can contain multiple identities each. The number of identities was actually 2,232 (pdf).

In 2016, the number dropped to 1,934. It also specified that the reports have only been including unmaskings of names and titles of Americans. Unmaskings of other identifying information, such as email addresses, telephone numbers, and names of American companies, werent included.

For 2017, the report started to include unmaskings of any identifying information, pushing the number up to 9,529. The report also included the figure for 20169,217but only for the period of September 2015 to August 2016 (pdf).

The report said the figures that include any identifying information were previously disclosed in a separate FISA report provided only to the DNI, the secret FISA court, the attorney general, and select members of Congress. This separate report is prepared annually for the period of September to August.

Its not clear why the DNI report didnt include the complete 2016 numbers. Neither of its two subsequent reports for 2018 and 2019 filled the gap (pdf, pdf). The Epoch Times requested the data for the last four months of 2016 from the DNI and was referred to the NSA, which declined to comment beyond the DNI report.

Spying under FISA has faced heightened scrutiny in recent years after several investigations revealed that the FBI in 2016 and 2017 applied for a FISA warrant to spy on former Trump campaign aide Carter Page using false and unsubstantiated allegations fed to the bureau by operatives paid, through intermediaries, by the Democratic National Committee and the campaign of Trumps opponent, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

Even as the FBI garnered more and more information undermining the allegations, it withheld most of it from the FISA court and kept applying for renewals of the warrant, resulting in illegal surveillance.

The spying operation and the TrumpRussia probe it was part of is under investigation by U.S. Attorney John Durham. Former FBI attorney Kevin Clinesmith pleaded guilty in August to altering a document that outlined Pages previous cooperation with the CIA.

The Justice Departments Inspector General found hundreds of errors in a sample of 29 other FISA warrant applications, but the FBI was able to explain most of them as paperwork issues that didnt affect the validity of the warrants. In Pages case, however, the bureau acknowledged that at least its last two renewals in 2017 were invalid.

The FBI and the Department of Justice have been adopting a series of reforms of the FISA process to mitigate its future abuse.

FISA authorizes several avenues to intelligence collection. Section 702 of Title VII of the law allows warrantless collection of electronic communications, such as phone calls and emails, of people outside the United States who arent Americans. Title I allows electronic surveillance of Americans and people inside the United States, as long as the FISA court agrees theres a probable cause that the target is a foreign power or an agent of a foreign power. Page was targeted under Title I.
Florida State University has canceled Spring Break for 2021 in a bid to keep the coronavirus infection rate down just days after more than 1,000 students were caught partying in off-campus housing.

The Tallahassee Police Department responded to more than a dozen calls about crowds over the weekend, including the 700-vehicle party on Dixie Drive just before midnight Saturday.

More than 1,000 people partied outside the Tenn Street Apartments in Tallahassee, two miles from Florida State University's campus, requiring police to use a helicopter to disperse the crowd because most of the travel lanes in the student apartment complex were blocked.

'The university continues its efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, and we believe these adjustments will reduce the potential for members of the campus community to return to Tallahassee with the virus after traveling during spring break,' Sally McRorie, the university's provost and executive vice president for academic affairs, said in a statement Wednesday.

Officials at Florida State University (pictured) have canceled Spring Break for 2021 in a bid to keep the coronavirus infection rate down just days after more than 1,000 students were caught partying in off-campus housing

More than 1,000 people partied outside the Tenn Street Apartments (above), two miles from Florida State University's campus, requiring police to use a helicopter to disperse the crowd because most of the travel lanes in the student apartment complex were blocked

As a result of the changes, the semester will end on April 23. Florida A&M University is also considering making the same decision.

Police broke up the party Saturday night about a month after the university's president wrote to students telling them to social distance and avoid all gatherings last month.

In a letter to students, FSU President John Thrasher, wrote: 'The choices you make don't just impact you.

'They affect your friends, families, professors, FSU staff and the Tallahassee community at large, as well as our ability to hold in-person classes and future events and provide campus services,' according to CNN.

He added: 'Noncompliance with the expectations outlined in our Fall 2020 plan will not be tolerated.

'We must demonstrate our commitment to each other and this great university by doing everything we can to stop the spread of COVID-19.'

Coronavirus cases among students at Florida State University have soared to more than 1,500 since testing began in August. Of that total, about 1,479 are students at FSU and 31 are employees. According to the university, the school has a positivity rate of 7.61 per cent.

Last week, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis denounced university crackdowns on parties and said he would seek a 'bill of rights' to protect students who could be expelled for partying.

He said: 'I understand that universities are trying to do the right thing but I personally think it's dramatically draconian that a student could get potentially expelled for going to a party.

'That's what college kids do,' reported News4JAX.

Governor Ron DeSantis denounced university crackdowns on parties and said he would seek a 'bill of rights' to protect students who could be expelled for partying

DeSantis reiterated his stance that students are low-risk for the coronavirus and credited universities for not going 'overboard' in measures against students.

At a separate party, two men were hospitalized after gunfire broke out at a party near the Circle K on S Monroe Street on Sunday just before 5am.

One victim was treated and released, while the other is in serious but stable condition. It is not yet clear whether the victims are affiliated with the university.

Tallahassee Police said: 'A dispute broke out, resulting in gunfire. Initial information indicates multiple shots were fired from different weapons.

'Several cars in and around the parking lot were struck. The shooting continued north on S. Monroe Street.

'Officers located additional evidence of the shooting on the 2500 block of S. Monroe St.'

Investigators ask anyone who may have witnessed the incident but did not speak with an officer on scene, or anyone with information about the shooting to please call 850-891-4200.

On Thursday, Florida officials reported 2,628 new coronavirus cases and 127 deaths.

That brings the state's total cases to 709,144 with at least 14,444 deaths.

DeSantis announced on Friday that effective immediately Florida moved to phase three of the coronavirus reopening plan with bars and restaurants at full capacity.

Dr Anthony Fauci openly criticized DeSantis's decision, describing it as 'very concerning' on Monday.
Concern: the curlew population has gone down by more than 80% in NI since 1987

Northern Ireland is sitting in the relegation zone for nature, according to the latest research from the Natural History Museum and the RSPB.

It ranks the country among the worst in the world when it comes to biodiversity, in what environmentalists are calling a wake-up call for more and faster action to protect natural habitats.

Northern Ireland sits 12th worst in the world for biodiversity loss out of 240 countries surveyed, one behind the Republic of Ireland, as the plight of UK nature is revealed in new global league tables.

New analysis from the Natural History Museum, in collaboration with the RSPB, has revealed that the UK languishes at the bottom of the league table of both G7 and EU countries for the amount of nature it has left.

In a global assessment, Northern Ireland was revealed as the 12th worst performing country for biodiversity loss with the Republic of Ireland ranking 13th lowest out of 240 countries.

The latest State of Nature report revealed:

In Northern Ireland, we've lost more than 80% of the curlew population since 1987, with Fermanagh and the Antrim Hills the last remaining hotspots.

41% of species assessed across the UK have decreased over the past 10 years.

In Northern Ireland, 11% of all wildlife is now threatened with extinction.

Across the UK, butterflies are down 16% since the 1970s.

More than 40m birds have disappeared from UK skies since 1970, and the crisis is showing no signs of slowing.

That means the UK is bottom of the pile for G7 countries for the fraction of biodiversity it has left.

"These league tables make for difficult reading and set the scene for the scale of the task before us," said RSPB NI Director Joanne Sherwood.

"But we don't have to continue like this. There is an opportunity to change and make the next decade count.

"Science-based analysis like this underlines that we must make urgent progress and investment if we are to avoid even more nature vanishing by 2030.

"We will be calling for 30% of land to be protected by 2030 as committed to by the Prime Minister earlier this week. The Prime Minister promised to work with the devolved countries of the UK, and RSPB will be seeking clarity from the Northern Ireland Executive as to how it plans to meet this important milestone.

"If we want nature in Northern Ireland to recover, transformative solutions to match the scale of the crisis must be put into action now."
A pervert has avoided jail after offering an underage girl $5,000 to have sex with him.

The 26-year-old man, from Queensland, began to message the 15-year-old girl on Instagram in May 2019 and told her she was 'beautiful' and 'could get anyone', Gladstone Magistrate's Court heard.

He then asked if she had Snapchat and told her he hated messaging on Instagram, where conversations can be recorded, the Gladstone Observer reported.

The man began to message the teenager on social media app Instagram in May 2019 and told her she was 'beautiful' and 'could get anyone', the court heard (stock image)

The man told the girl he really liked her in July 2019 and asked when she would be 'legal'.

The court heard how the teenager reported the man's behaviour to a school counsellor, who told police.

However, the man continued to message the teenager and requested to suck on her 'mint t****es' and 'eat her p***y'.

He offered her $100 to send him naked photographs and $5,000 to have sex with him.

Officers attended his home in May 2020 and he was arrested.

The man pleaded to grooming a child under 16 with intent to procure engagement in a sexual act on Wednesday.

The court heard the teenager reported the man's behaviour to a school counsellor, who told police (stock image)

Magistrate Ross Woodford said the man has a four-page long criminal history but he was unlikely to re-offend.

He sentenced the man to nine months in prison - which was suspended for 18 months.

'You are a low risk of re-offending due to the fact you have no like offences or sexual offences and your history is very limited,' Magistrate Woodford told the court.

'There was no intention to meet up with the child while the texting was going on and it appears to be an isolated incident.'
Well-designed websites help businesses reach more prospects, increase conversions and establish consistent branding. Ultimately, an impactful website contributes towards generating leads, which benefits the bottom line.

Web design talent can increasingly be found in New Jersey, where the tech industry is growing. The states tech sector represents 9.6% of total economic output and their amount of tech jobs grew 1.3% from 2018 to 2019.

DesignRush, a B2B marketplace which connects brands with agencies, reviewed the website design companies with operations in New Jersey and identified the best companies that help brands with designing high quality websites.

The best 2020 website design companies in New Jersey include:

1. SmartSites  smartsites.com

Expertise: Website Design, Website Development, SEO and more

2. Hudson Integrated  hudsonintegrated.com

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3. TechBear.com  techbear.com

Expertise: Website Design, Website Development, Digital Marketing and more

4. Cantilever  cantilever.co

Expertise: Website Design, eCommerce Development, Website Development and more

5. eCuras  ecuras.com

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6. worldwideRiches Web Design and SEO  worldwideriches.com

Expertise: Website Design, Mobile App Development, Digital Marketing and more

7. eDesign Interactive  edesigninteractive.com

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8. Fortitude Development LLC  fortitudedev.com

Expertise: Website Design, Mobile App Development, Digital Marketing and more

9. Bridge Global Inc.  bridge-global.com

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10. Alycia Yerves Creative  alyciayerves.com

Expertise: Website Design, Digital Marketing, Branding and more

Brands can view the top website design companies by location, size, average hourly rate and portfolio on DesignRush.

About DesignRush: DesignRush.com is a B2B marketplace connecting brands with agencies. DesignRush features the top agencies around the world, including the best Digital Agencies, Logo Design, Branding, Digital Marketing, Website Design, eCommerce Web Design Companies and more.
Sri Lanka: 43 arrested for illegal fishing

October 01,2020 | Source: Daily News LK

During special operations conducted in the Eastern, Northern and North Central Naval Commands in the previous week, the Navy apprehended 43 persons along with dinghies and fishing gear for engaging in illegal fishing. As such, the Eastern Naval Command had nabbed 32 persons together with 06 dinghies, over 800kg of illegally caught fish and fishing accessories, while they were engaging in fishing with unauthorized nets. These special operations had been conducted in the sea areas off Pulmoddai, Norway Island and Salpeyaru, Trincomalee as well as Kotuwamada in Batticaloa lagoon. Similarly, the Northern Naval Command, during a search in the sea area north of Chundikulam, apprehended 06 persons engaged in illegal diving activities to harvest sea cucumber. Along with the suspects 02 dinghies, 54 illegally harvested sea cucumbers and several diving gear were detained by the Navy.



Meanwhile, the North Central Naval Command, during a search conducted in the general area of Wankaleipadu, held 02 more suspects with 11 illegally harvested sea cucumbers and seized a dinghy used by them. In two more operations conducted in Erukkulampiddi with the assistance of the Police STF in Mannar, the North Central Naval Command had arrested a person for possession of 247 conch shells less than 70mm perimeter as well as over 625kg of illegally harvested sea cucumber, and again collared 02 more suspects with 04 unauthorized nets, each is about 100m in length, hidden at a house in the area.



The apprehended persons are residents of Thiriyaya, Thoppur, Kinniya Muthur, Trincomalee, Erakkandi, Nilaveli, Mannar, Vankalai, Pesalai and Thalawila, from 18 to 46 years of age. The accused along with the dinghies and fishing gear were handed over to the Assistant Directors of Fisheries in Trincomalee, Mannar and Batticaloa as well as Fisheries Inspectors of Pulmoddai, Trincomalee, Mannar and Point Pedro for onward legal action.
Nigeria marks the 60th anniversary of its independence from Great Britain on 1 October. The celebrations take place in the shadow of eleven years of Boko Haram insurgency, in which thousands of lives have been lost, property damaged on a vast scale, and schools turned into refugee camps in most states in the north of the country.

After six decades of independence, Nigeria still faces major issues - massive youth unemployment as a result of the dearth of manufacturing industries, the struggle for resources between the northern and southern parts of the country, a difficult global context for the national oil industry.

Government statistics show that about two-thirds of the Nigerian population are under the age of 25, but more than half of them are unemployed thereby exposing young people to such threats as crime and insurgency. Creating jobs and securing investments to provide employment has been one of the major challenges affecting the nation's leadership.

To say nothing of the problems posed by the Islamic insurgency of Boko Haram.

Boko Haram turned to violence after its leader, Mohammed Yusuf, was arrested and killed by security operatives in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, in 2009.

Until then, the group had been spreading its ideology like many other Islamic preaching organisations in Nigeria.

Literally, Boko Haram means "Western education is forbidden".

Campaign against 'sadistic' police force, army

After the killing of Mohammed Yusuf, Boko Haram followers launched series of attacks and campaigns claiming that every federal policeman or soldier is brutal, cruel, inhuman and sadistic, not much better than a beast.

These insurgents soon began to use sophisticated weapons such as AK47 rifles, RPGs, machine guns, anti-aircraft guns, as well as rockets and mines.

In addition, they engaged in the kidnapping of young boys and girls who, under the influence of drugs, according to security sources, were assigned to specific crowded settlements to detonate suicide bombs.

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Security forces are still struggling to end the insurgency, despite some successes on the ground.

Boko Haram has now spread to neighbouring Cameroon, Chad and Niger.

High-level protection from politicians

Some commentators argue that the security agencies are particularly helpless in their efforts to control the situation because of the high-level protection the insurgents receive from political godfathers.

Presidential elections are due be held in Nigeria at the end of Muhamadou Buhari's tenure in 2023.

Under the current system of the rotation of power between north and south, the next president will be a southerner, with a northern vice-president.
In case you havent been paying attention (and you should be) weve been running articles about our area election candidates.

September lasted but a blink, and I dont expect October to be much different; Election Day will be here before we know it. Well be glued to our TVs, our computers and our phones that night anxiously waiting for results. If you havent voted before, its exhilarating to have cast your vote and watch it in action.

(Yes, your vote matters, but thats another column entirely.)

During this time of the year, I once in a while hear the idea kicked around about making Election Day a national holiday. One of the arguments against an Election Day holiday is that there are people who simply cant afford to miss a days pay. I understand that. Ive been there. The simple answer is to make it a paid holiday. Such policy would ultimately be in the hands of private employers, as Federal law does not require employees to grant paid Federal holidays. Most institutions voluntarily match their schedules with Federal holidays. (Currently there are ten national holidays in the United States.) A few states have made Election Day a state holiday, most recently Virginia in April 2020.
Read more: Mariah Carey opens up on troubled relationship with older sister

For years, Mariah Careys siblings have been trashing her in the press, so she gets to have her say in her new memoir.

In The Meaning of Mariah Carey, out now, the famous songstress details her troubled childhood and sheds light on the bitterness between herself and her ex- older siblings, Morgan and Alison Carey. She claims Morgan, 60, was very violent, once hurling their mother, Patricia Carey, into a wall, knocking her out cold, and was put in a childrens psychiatric centre for seriously emotionally troubled children. The bad blood with Alison, 58, ran deeper with Mariah claiming she tried to sell me out to a pimp when she was 12.

Mariah, 50, paints a sad saga about Alison, who became pregnant at 15 and had the baby against mom Patricias advice. She writes about being 7 and attending the most awkward baby/wedding shower ever for her sibling, who then moved to the Philippines to marry her baby daddy, a 19-year-old serviceman. Just a few years later, Alison, 20, returned to their native Long Island, N.Y., and was in a bad way.

Read more: Mariah Carey says family treated her like a cash machine

Mariah Carey attends Variety's 2019 Power of Women: Los Angeles presented by Lifetime at the Beverly Wilshire Four Seasons Hotel on October 11, 2019 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/FilmMagic)

Whatever had happened to her over there, or on Long Island, or in a back room somewhere, had taken its toll on her, Mariah wrote. Something, or many things, must have happened to her to lead her to barter her body for money and drugs, as she went on to do for years.

Mariah wrote that their parents split when she was 3 and she lived with their mother while Alison moved in with their dad, Alfred  and there wasnt loving interaction between the siblings. But when Alison returned, she showed an interest in Mariah for the first time. She said Alison began luring her  doing things like secretly getting the then 12-year-old her own phone line, unbeknownst to their mom. The Careys were poor, so Mariah was quickly won over. Alison was living with a new boyfriend  who Mariah later learned was a pimp  and invited her sister to the nice house where she was allowed to watch as much TV as she wanted and snack on all the foods her mom couldnt afford.

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Mariah was told to tell nobody that she visited  or that Alison and boyfriend John would take her to Manhattan, or to eat at IHOP, and giving her attention she craved. But Mariah soon learned it was manipulation masquerading in love.

Mariah Carey attends the 19th Annual American Music Awards on January 27, 1992 at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Ron Galella, Ltd./Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images)

Now, of course, its clear to me that the fun house was a whorehouse. I think my sister was kind of like the hustler, the talent scout, Mariah wrote. I had no idea; after all, I was a 12-year-old girl.

She said things quickly spun out of control. First, her sister started calling at all hours in desperate bouts of drug-induced hysteria. Worse, one day Alison and John were supposed to pick her up, but he came solo  and had a gun on his lap, placed so Mariah could see it.

First, John took Mariah to some seedy card playing venue, where adult men, the only ones there, leered at her and made lewd references. The next stop was a drive-in movie, where he immediately put his arm around me, she recalled. My body went stiff. My eyes were fixed on his gun. [He] pushed in closer and forced a hard kiss on me. I was nauseous and scared; I felt immobilized.

Read more: Mariah Carey says Ellen Show pregnancy interview was uncomfortable

Luckily she was saved. An elderly man, who she calls a prayer in person, pulled in next to them and gawked at the mismatched pairing of the older man and child kissing.

Even if he didnt detect my distress, he could see this was no place a little girl would ever want to be, Mariah wrote of her angel. John started the car and drove Mariah home in silence. She unplugged the phone Alison installed for her after that.

Big sisters are supposed to protect you  not pimp you out, Mariah wrote.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 13: Mariah Carey attends Tyler Perry's "A Fall From Grace" New York premiere at Metrograph on January 13, 2020 in New York City. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/FilmMagic)

Mariah shared other upsetting stories about Alison  like the time she claimed her sister handed me a little chalky ice-blue pill with the direction to take this. Within minutes, Mariah was in a scary darkness and couldnt pull myself out... At 12, I probably weighed 80 pounds soaking wet and Alison gave me a whole Valium. I dont know why my sister drugged me.

There was also the time Alison was dropping her off outside their moms home and pulled out white crystal powder and held it up to my face, saying, Just try it. Mariah wrote she knew it was cocaine and it scared me to death. She declined, writing, I dont know what wouldve happened if I snorted cocaine right before seeing my mother, or ever in my life, saying it would have impeded her path to stardom.

Another scary incident Mariah recounted was while they were having tea with their mom. Their dad called, upset with his daughters about something, and wanted to speak to them. Mariah tried to pass the call off to her sister because she was scared of their dad. While it started off as funny, she claims Alison turned.

She was looking down at her mug of still-steaming tea ... and when she lifted her face, her eyes were rabid, without a trace of their former playfulness, Mariah recalled. Before I realized what was happening ... [she] threw the boiling hot tea on me.

Mariah blacked out from the pain, coming to in a doctors office having suffered third-degree burns on her back. She recalled the doctor, who had to slice off her shirt, removing pieces of the fabric embedded into the flesh of my shoulder with tweezers.

Mariah said her back was numb after and she couldnt be touched without it causing excruciating pain. She said it was years before I could accept a simple pat on the back, as most of my skin had to completely renew and repair itself. However, the deepest injury was the emotional trauma.

In reflecting on the fractured relationship, Mariah called Alison the most brilliant and broken person I have ever known. I may never understand what hurt her so badly that it made her hurt so many others in return, but to me, she was her own most permanently damaged victim.

Mariah said she tried to help Alison many times, financing treatments and paying for rehabs. However, in return, Alison has made her the target for which to take out her enduring pain, with Mariah writing that through the years, both my sister and brother have put me on the chopping block, sold lies to any gossip rag or trashy website that would buy or listen.

Read more: Mariah Carey opens up on lavish Christmas celebrations

In 2016, Alison  who is HIV-positive  was arrested on a prostitution charge in Saugerties, N.Y. Just prior, she used a tabloid as a forum to publicly beg Mariah for money for health expenses following a home invasion attack that left her brain damaged. The following year, Alison was sued for millions after allegedly hitting a man with her car and nearly killing him.

In August, Alison filed her own lawsuit against their mom, Patrica, for alleged sexual abuse. She claims Patricia forced her to perform sex acts on strangers when she was 10.

Watch: Mariah Carey glad she got a career pause after family fight
Top Chicago prosecutor Kim Foxx has dropped out of an upcoming debate against her Republican opponent for state attorney because she claims he will resort to 'Trump-like name calling'.

Foxx, the Cook County State's Attorney who caused outrage over her handling of the Jussie Smollett case last year, revealed on Wednesday that she will no longer debate her rival Pat O'Brien.

The Democrat accused O'Brien of calling her a 'cheerleader of criminals' and a 'social worker' during recent interviews.

Foxx claimed that name calling was likely to continue if the debate went ahead.

Kim Foxx, the Cook County State's Attorney who caused outrage over her handling of the Jussie Smollett case last year, revealed on Wednesday that she will no longer debate her rival Pat O'Brien

'Voters deserve to hear Mr. O'Briens platform. However, we learned during the recent Ed board interviews, that the State's Attorney participated in with Mr O'Brien, that he will instead use the time for Trump-like name-calling and fearmongering,' the Foxx campaign said.

'The State's Attorney will always participate in interviews But during this nationwide crisis, she will not sit across the stage from a Republican that exploits tragedy to win a campaign. We had plenty of that last night. Voters deserve better.'

Her decision to drop out came a day after the first presidential debate between President Trump and Joe Biden descended into chaos with the pair repeatedly shouting over each other.

O'Brien hit back and called Foxx's move a disservice to the people of Cook County.

'It seems to me that the voters have a right in this kind of setting to hear both of us answer questions and challenge each other on our answers,' O'Brien told the Chicago Sun Times.

'She's relying on the fact that this is a Democratic county and that 'D' beside her name will probably mean more votes.'

In a follow up tweet, O'Brien accused Foxx of not wanting to answer questions about releasing violent criminals.

The Democrat accused her Republican rival Pat O'Brien of calling her a 'cheerleader of criminals' and a 'social worker' during recent interviews

'Kim Foxx won't debate. Why won't she talk about the failures in her office? Why won't she answer questions about releasing violent criminals to the streets of Cook County. It's time to #FireKimFoxx,' he said.

Foxx said that she will participate in interviews instead of the debate.

It is not clear if she will participate in a future debate scheduled for October 26.

Foxx gained notoriety last year when she dropped felony charges against Jussie Smollett, the Empire actor accused of staging a racist, homophobic attack on himself in January 2019.

A report published last month by the Sun Times said Foxx had dismissed more than 25,000 felony cases, including many involving violent murder charges, in her first three years on the job.

That rate is 35 percent higher than her predecessor, the report said.

Foxx took over as state's attorney in 2016 with a promise to bring criminal justice reform and to reduce the population of Cook County Jail.

The Democrat is now up for re-election in November after beating three challengers in a tight race that was one of the most expensive of its kind.
ANTEBELLUM 

MA, 106 minutes, now showing Antebellum has earnest ambitions. Its out to show Gone with the Wind fans that life in the Antebellum South wasnt all magnolias, mint juleps and slaves cheerily orchestrating singalongs in the cotton fields. And it wastes no time in getting down to business, opening with the slave owners committing a gruesome series of atrocities, most of which are inflicted on women. Janelle Monae stars in Antebellum. Credit:Lionsgate The producers who gave us Get Out, Jordan Peeles elegant combination of horror movie and political polemic, are responsible for the film but its creators, Gerard Bush and Christopher Renz, dont have Peeles taste for irony or his faith in the power of restraint. The overacting is infused with such vigour that I feared for the scenery.

The title is slightly misleading, for the Civil War is well under way when we arrive at the plantation. Its been requisitioned by a Confederate unit under the command of Captain Jasper, played by Jack Huston, clearly rejoicing in his role as chief sadist, although Jena Malone is offering him serious competition as his wife, Elizabeth. Admittedly, her crinoline gives her extra swagger, but her southern drawl with snarl makes her particularly impressive. Antebellum's failings drown out its timely message. Credit:Roadshow Loading We observe them through the eyes of Eden (Janelle Monae), a slave who has attracted the eye of a Confederate general (Eric Lange) and is required to sleep with him during his regular visits to the plantation. Reaching the end of her tether, she is plotting her escape but her plans havent gone very far before were treated to a flashback delivering the news that she has somehow been spirited away from her life in contemporary New York as Veronica Henley, a prominent feminist activist and author with a happy marriage and a small child.
NEW ORLEANS, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- In a unanimous decision, the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit affirmed Suzuki Motor Corporation's December 2018 defense verdict in a product liability trial where Plaintiff, Bradley Stubblefield, claimed the front brake on his GSX-R1000 suddenly failed, causing him to crash and suffer serious injuries.

The case arose from a January 2012 motorcycle crash in Madison County, Mississippi, while Mr. Stubblefield was on his way to work. Witnesses said that upon entering the entrance ramp to an interstate highway, Mr. Stubblefield suddenly appeared on the left side of a car that was already in the one lane on-ramp. He encountered gravel, locked up his rear brake in the gravel, and ultimately went down a 20-foot deep ravine. At trial, Plaintiff's team claimed corrosion and hydrogen gas were the cause of his brake failure. Suzuki proved that Mr. Stubblefield's front brake was fully functional during the crash and that neither corrosion nor hydrogen gas contributed to the crash. The physical evidence proved that the motorcycle did not have a design defect. The jury deliberated for less than two hours and returned a unanimous defense verdict for Suzuki.

On appeal, the Court of Appeals rejected all of Mr. Stubblefield's arguments. Of note, the Court upheld the exclusion of the Suzuki brake recall and purported other similar incidents (OSIs), which the Court found to be irrelevant. The Court of Appeals also affirmed the trial court's award of all costs that Suzuki requested, and denied Plaintiffs' petition for rehearing.

While we sympathize with Mr. Stubblefield and anyone involved in an accident, his claim was without merit; Suzuki proved it and the jury unanimously agreed. Suzuki stands by all of its products, is pleased with the outcome of this case, and we are grateful to our employees and outside counsel that contributed to this result.

Suzuki's appellate lawyers were Wayne Drinkwater of Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP and Kat Carrington of Butler Snow LLP, and its trial lawyers were Randy Riggs and Jeff Mortier of Frost Brown Todd LLC and Bobby Miller, Will Thomas, and Kat Carrington of Butler Snow LLP.

Plaintiffs' appellate lawyer was Todd B. Ott of Ott Law Firm, P.A., and their trial attorneys were Randy Edwards of Cochran & Edwards, LLC, and Mike Malouf Sr. and Mike Malouf Jr., of the Law Offices of Malouf & Malouf, PLLC.

SOURCE Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.
Joyce Echaquan, a 37-year-old Atikamekw mother of seven, tragically died in hospital while nurses attending to her uttered racist remarks and Echaquan shared a live video on Facebook. Her death has called attention to a health-care system that Indigenous medical workers say has been failing to serve Indigenous people for years.

Cheryllee Bourgeois is a Metis exemption midwife with Seventh Generation Midwives Toronto. She said that when speaking with friends and colleagues about Echaquans death, people would share that they had similar experiences.

I cant tell you since I first heard about it on Tuesday, how many people have said, Yeah, my family actually had an incident like that X number of years ago, or, you know, last year when my dad died. 

Exemption midwives are regulated through a community process instead of through the College of Midwives of Ontario, which allows them to broaden their scope of care for Indigenous women. For example, they are able to perform STI tests and Pap tests on women who are not pregnant, while midwives can usually only perform on women who are pregnant.

It provides a different way than in the usual health-care system, Bourgeois said. It makes a difference for women knowing that their practitioner is also Indigenous, and also (has) understandings and teachings that go along with how you care for yourself.

At the same time, Bourgeois recognizes the privilege to be able to provide or have access to someone like an exemption midwife, which only exists in Ontario and Quebec, and says change is needed beyond that.

A transformative health-care system really has to be the full system, Bourgeois said. So often, when you go into these spaces, youre treated as not human enough. And then what ends up happening is you see the outcomes of that dehumanization, in situations like the one that happened with Joyce. But Joyces situation is not uncommon.

Another recent example is Brian Sinclair, an Ojibwa man, who in 2008 died in a Winnipeg emergency room, where he waited for 34 hours and was not seen by hospital staff who assumed he was intoxicated, or homeless, or had been previously discharged.

The inquest found that he died of a treatable bladder infection and had a referral letter from a physician in his pocket. Some academics and physicians say his cause of death was racism.

The history of colonization in this country is fraught with appalling health experiences for Indigenous people, from smallpox brought early on by settlers, to the spread of tuberculosis and other illnesses in residential schools.

In a press conference, Quebec Premier Francois Legault said he was shocked at the racism Echaquan endured, but he refused to acknowledge that Indigenous people experience systemic racism in Quebec institutions.

For Dr. Lisa Richardson, a mixed Anishinaabe physician who is the strategic lead in Indigenous health for Womens College Hospital and U of T, the existence of systemic racism in health care is a truth with several reports to back it up, but a truth that people seem afraid to acknowledge. We will not have reconciliation, until we have truth, she says.

Dr. Suzanne Shoush, a Black and Indigenous physician and Indigenous health lead at U of Ts department of family and community medicine, agrees that Echaquans death should not be seen as a two rotten eggs situation. All of this treatment is not unique to Joyce, she said. I want it to be seen as systemic and structural.

Medicine runs on algorithms and stereotypes, Dr. Shoush said. Doctors look for patterns and symptoms to determine what looks like appendicitis or what looks like a stomachache. But when racist stereotypes are in the mix, the result can be deadly in the form of misdiagnosis, overlooked symptoms or failure to treat.

If youre not culturally competent you, you can kill people, she said.

If care and history are taken into account, the experience for Indigenous people can be different. Dr. Shoush remembers a patient of hers who was a residential school survivor and asked to be taken to the hospital to get help for substance abuse. During the patients intake, it was discovered that she had scabies, and she was isolated in a room.

To walk into an institution that is not Indigenous, not seeing any Indigenous faces, immediately be told, oh, youre dirty, get into this room, stripped (of) your clothes and belongings, Dr. Shoush said. It was such a triggering reminder of residential school that she fled.

A small but powerful detail could come about in what is hanging on the walls. For example, Dr. Shoush said that over the years, as LGBTQI peoples difficulty accessing fair health care was recognized, clinics have begun posting positive signage.

We are telling people from the LGBTQ community, we see you, we care about you, you are important, we will not discriminate, we will make an active effort to not discriminate, she said.

If an Indigenous person walks into a room, what do they have in the physical environment to show that theyre that this is a place for Indigenous people where they are welcomed and will be treated with dignity?

Bourgeois said that all health-care providers need to understand that they have to be mindful of their approach when caring for a patient who has a mistrust of the system, even for herself as a Metis midwife. I still am a health-care provider, that could be a potential harm to somebody. So, its important to remember that, for all health-care providers, that you need to keep that humility in terms of the care youre providing.

She also said similar challenges exist for Black communities, other racialized people and people who are vulnerable to being targeted by systems.

We can hold individuals responsible for their individual behaviour, and we should, Bourgeois said. But unless you look at the systems that are holding them up and change those, its going to continue.

Angelyn Francis is a Toronto-based reporter for the Star covering inequity and inequality. Her reporting is funded by the Canadian government through its Local Journalism Initiative. Reach her via email: afrancis@thestar.ca

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The landscape of Delhis Central Ridge on Thursday morning had a less greener hue than it usually does during the post-Monsoon October period. Dug up patches of land  covering several hectares  could be spotted planted with hundreds of young saplings replacing the native species of shrubs and ground vegetation in these areas. The pits, barely two-three metres apart in some cases, were surrounded by dying creepers and pruned branches of existing trees, which had been pushed to the periphery of the plantation area.

Delhi-based environmentalist and author Pradip Krishen walked around the area with other tree activists, ecologists and journalists on Thursday to explain the extent of damage caused to the native species by this undesired plantation. My guess is that around 10-12 hectares have been flattened already. The Ridge has a dry, rocky, and thin soil. Most of the saplings that are being planted here wont survive here if they are not watered regularly and perpetually, said Krishen.

Having walked for about three kilometres through the protected forest land, an abundance of jamun, cyrus, maulshri, ullu, kassod, and kadamb saplings meets the eyes, which Krishen said cannot be considered native to the ridge and should not have been planted here.

He added that at least 30 native species that could grow well here  including amaltas, chudail papdi, dhau, dhak, hingot, ronjh, bistendu and khair, among others,  must be planted. These trees are well-adapted to prosper under the harsh conditions of the ridge.

Some patches of ground vegetation and shrubs had been cleared away using a JCB machine to dig the pits.

The rootstocks are still here, which means they can grow back, said Padmavati Dwivedi, a tree activist, who led the first tree census of Delhi a few years ago. Touching the tiny leaves sprouting out of a rootstock, Dwivedi said, If they had to clear out patches for plantation, why not remove the invasive vilayti kikar through proper procedure instead of using machines, which would further damage the ecosystem.

The Central Ridge, located near Karol Bagh, spreads over 864 hectares of which 423 hectares are managed by the forest department. It is a part of the Aravallis, one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world. It is infested with vilayti kikar (prosopis juliflora), an exotic and invasive tree species, which with its deep roots sucks up much of the groundwater leaving the land dry. The vilayti kikars also do not allow sunlight to reach the forest floor, which in turn prevents other species to grow along with it. The Delhi government had in 2018 proposed a project to replace the tree species with indigenous varieties. However, the project is still awaiting the nod of the state cabinet.

Following a series of separate orders by Delhi High Court last year to plant tree saplings (including mango and jackfruit) as compensation, a plantation drive was launched at the Central Ridge area by the Delhi forest department. This drive, experts however feared , could disrupt the fragile ecosystem of the ridge.

On Thursday, environmentalists and tree activists walked around the Ridge area to take stock of the several green patches that had been cleared by JCBs, leaving behind empty pits, with little space between them. Even the saplings that had been planted were done so in a grid-like manner.

Forest restorations are to be done in a planned way. For instance, trees which may grow together are planted in one area. Pioneer trees, which grow alone, should be planted in a separate area. There seems to be no such planning here. The Ridge forest is an open thorn forest and yet the holes had been spaced for a dense woodland, said Krishen, who has been working for over a decade to restore degraded parts of the desert in around Jaipur and Jodhpur.

The activists also said that a plantation drive being carried out after the rainy season would not serve its purpose. In a 25-30 hectares patch of the ridge, the forest department is carrying out plantation activity at a time when the monsoon season is over in Delhi. The only time to plant on the dry, rocky, thin-soiled ridge is early in the rainy season. Most of the pits are lying empty, Krishen wrote in his letter to Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal on Monday, requesting his intervention to halt the plantation drive.

While L-Gs office did not respond to repeated requests for a comment on the matter, Delhi governments environment department reacting to Krishens letter said that the plantation is being done on the directions of the high court of Delhi.

The department said in response to HTs query said that from last year to now, at least 32,000 saplings have been planted under the drive, with 9,000 more waiting to be planted for which the pits have been dug up. However, the pits are empty because the saplings to be planted here have to brought by the litigants. The saplings brought by them were not suitable and hence they were asked to return them and get new ones. Besides, the 13 varieties of species that have been planted here are as per the list of species mentioned in the court order.

Explaining the use of JCB machine, the department said that the machine was used only at places where the soil was very hard and pits could not be dug manually.

Highlighting the urgency of the matter, activists said that continuing with the plantation would set everything back, damage the area, and cause soil run-off. Until we have the expertise and a dedicated team of ecologists, designers and landscape architects who can study the soil and not just species and try to emulate natural forest systems similar to that of the Ridge, we should leave the area as it is, said Krishen.

CR Babu, professor emeritus at Centre for Environmental Management of Degraded Ecosystem in Delhi University, said that he had last year told the forest department that indiscriminate large-scale plantation will disturb the biodiversity of the ridge. This kind of plantation activity must be stopped. No exotic trees could be planted here. The ridge is a huge recharging zone and indiscriminate plantation can disturb the aquifer system. I had given a list of species that could be planted here. Also, the department has to first restore its native ecosystem by removing vilayti kikar and growing native species, said Babu.

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Director: Louis Fitzgerald at the bar in The Stags Head pub in Dublin Photo: David Conachy

Pub mogul Louis Fitzgerald believes the future of the hospitality sector is bleak as he revealed a considerable number of staff will be laid off at his venues from next week.

The Louis Fitzgerald Group, which operates more than a dozen pubs as well as two hotels, is one of the largest privately-owned hospitality groups in Ireland.

Mr Fitzgerald said the lay-offs will predominantly be in Dublin where so-called wet pubs have remained closed for 200 days.

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The Tipperary man owns some of the capitals biggest landmark bars such as Kehoe's, The Stag's Head and The Quays.

Speaking to Independent.ie, Mr Fitzgerald said the company will be reviewing staff levels next week.

The pub sector is in turmoil, he said.

There will be a considerable amount of layoffs from next week. Six months ago we thought things would start to return to normal soon but the reality is were further away than ever.

Pre-Covid, he says the group employed nearly 1,000 people.

We havent been given a chance to prove ourselves to the Government, he said.

By closing the hospitality sector all youre doing is promoting house parties. Pubs are the most regulated industry in the country. If a train station was being given the same signals as the pubs have been, thered be crashes all over the country. Theres a lot of inconsistencies out there. For example, I dont understand why you can only have 15 people outdoors if you have a large terrace which could safely occupy more.

The veteran businessman says the imminent threat of lockdowns makes it impossible to manage food and drink stock.

It doesnt look like theres a good future ahead. Temple Bar is in a bad state, I was shocked when I walked through it. The number of homeless people there is also very worrying and sad to see. Something needs to be done to breathe a bit of life back into it.

The Chawke Pub Group, which consists of nine gastro pubs including Searsons on Baggot Street and the Bank Bar on College Green, yesterday confirmed it is to lay off up to 300 staff.

A spokesperson for the Licensed Vintners' Association (LVA), which represents pubs in the greater Dublin area, said that 90pc of jobs in the pub sector in the capital are now gone.

Indoor dining is currently banned in Dublin due to the latest Covid restrictions after a surge in coronavirus cases in the capital. The National Public Health Emergency Team (Nphet) is to meet today to decide on any further lockdowns and if the Dublin lockdown will be extended beyond October 12.

The Chawke group employs around 400 people across its venues in Dublin and Limerick.

Bill Chawke's Bar and Aunty Lena's Bar in Adare are continuing to trade as normal.

Charlie Chawkes son David, who currently runs the Bank Bar, said he hopes the lay-offs are only temporary.

I don't know what our staff are meant to do. We were told wed be able to reopen on October 12 and now theyre putting a different spin on it. People have bills and mortgages to pay, he told Independent.ie.

The biggest issue is we used to get paid or reimbursed under the wage subsidy scheme five days later, so we paid staff and got the money back days later. Now it takes four to six weeks to get that money and they cant give us an answer as to why that changed.

We don't plan on closing anything for good, but I don't know why it's just our industry. Why is this not Europe-wide, why is it just Ireland where hotels, pubs and restaurants are really suffering.

Im not a doctor or scientist but I dont know why were being treated the way were being treated.

During the summer, Mr Chawke announced the venue would be taking deposits with all bookings due to last-minute cancellations.

"The no-shows and last-minute cancellations are breaking us. We definitely will still accept walk-ins, the city centre is a struggle but we really appreciate all of your custom and support," he wrote in a tweet.

The Old Orchard Inn in Rathfarnham, also part of the Chawke Group, had to temporarily close earlier this month after a staff member tested positive for Covid-19.

An LVA spokesperson said: "Before the pandemic hit there was 12,500 jobs in the pub sector in Dublin, we would estimate that well in excess of 90pc of those jobs are now gone.

"This is the impact that the hospitality sector closures are having and the fact non-food pubs in Dublin are yet to reopen having been closed since March. They have been closed for approximately 200 days at this point.

Changes to the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme (EWSS) which resulted in many people working in the pub industry no longer qualifying has led to bars having to let staff go.

The LVA previously wrote to Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe asking for an urgent amendment to be made to the scheme to help an industry already on its knees.

As it stands, anybody earning less than 151.20 per week does not receive the subsidy.

Anyone working 14 hours a week or less at that rate will not be covered by this scheme. That will immediately raise questions as to whether it will be financially viable for pubs operating at 50pc capacity or less to utilise these members of staff, said Donal OKeeffe, chief executive of the LVA.
Photo: Contributed

Before Prime Minister Justin Trudeau prorogued Parliament in August, it was not set to resume regular sittings until Sept. 21

Once the PM broke his promise not to use prorogation, he did to shut down the parliamentary committees investigating the WE scheme.



Parliament was again further delayed until Sept. 23.

Last Wednesday was Sept. 23 and became the date of the Throne Speech that I covered in last weeks report.



This week, the government tabled Bill C-4, the latest COVID relief response bill.

It was disappointing that the Trudeau Liberal government only allowed just over four hours to debate a bill that will exceed $50 billion worth of deficit spending.

Why did the Trudeau Liberal government do this?



Because there was not enough time after existing programs all ran out.

By proroguing Parliament, and delaying the return of the House, the time that should have been spent properly debating and reviewing this bill at committee stage was lost.

In other words, the Prime Minister created this situation solely to cover for the WE scandal and that has now come at the expense of legitimate democratic debate on a critically important bill.

Why does debate and committee stage review matter?



During this pandemic response, a significant number of gaps and unintended barriers have prevented those in need from getting the help a response program was intended to provide.

As a result, during these past months, the government has been playing catch up, typically after these gaps and barriers were pointed out by the Opposition.

Some people still have not received help because of this approach.

In this instance, Parliament finally had an opportunity to be proactive and study and debate a critically important bill prior to it coming into effect.

Instead, the Prime Minister was more concerned with shutting down Parliament so the parliamentary committees that were uncovering uncomfortable and alarming evidence about the WE scheme.



So this opportunity for proactive debate and study was squandered.

This is a massive failure by the Prime Minister, putting the need for political cover over the importance of properly debating and studying the COVID bill.

The bill was ultimately passed unanimously, however, it was not studied and committee nor was it extensively debated.

As a result there are many unknown details.



For example, how smoothly will the CERB benefit transition into the new EI version of this benefit?

Likewise, Canadians still don't know the status is of the EI account (which is paid for, through premiums, by employees and employers) and if these proposed new programs are sustainable.

These are all very serious questions and there is no answer to date.

My question this week:

Are you satisfied with the current direction of this Liberal government?

I can be reached at [email protected] or call toll free 1-800-665-8711.
Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who is recovering in Germany after being poisoned in Russia, said in comments published Thursday that only Russian President Vladimir Putin could have been behind the attack against him with a Soviet-era nerve agent.

Navalny's supporters have frequently maintained that the poisoning could have only been ordered at the top level, although the Kremlin has repeatedly dismissed the allegation. German officials have said labs found traces of a chemical agent from the Novichok family in the Russian politician's system.

Navalny, a corruption investigator who is Putins fiercest critic, was flown to Germany two days after falling ill on Aug. 20 on a domestic flight in Russia. He spent 32 days in the hospital, 24 of them in intensive care, before doctors deemed his condition sufficiently improved for him to be discharged.

He has posted frequent comments online as his recovery has progressed, but in his first interview since the attack, he told Germany's Der Spiegel, I assert Putin was behind the crime, according to an English-language copy of his comments the magazine published online.

I have no other explanation for what happened," Navalny, 44, said.

He asserted that his poisoning with a Novichok nerve agent only could have been ordered by the heads of Russia's military, domestic, or foreign intelligence agencies, officials who cannot make a decision like that without being instructed by Putin. They report to him."

The Kremlin on Thursday said that such accusations against the Russian president are absolutely groundless and unacceptable.

Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a cabinet meeting at the Novo-Ogaryovo residence outside Moscow, Russia, Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2020. Putin says that a coronavirus vaccine developed in the country has been registered for use and one of his daughters has already been inoculated. Speaking at a government meeting Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2020, Putin said that the vaccine has proven efficient during tests, offering a lasting immunity from the coronavirus. (Alexei Nikolsky, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Some of these statements in the mentioned publication we consider offensive, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

Peskov charged that there was information that specialists from the CIA were working with Navalny these days and giving him instructions.

There is information that these instructors are working with him these days, Peskov said. Instructions the patient is receiving are obvious. We have seen such lines of behavior more than once.

Story continues

Russia's United Nations ambassador Vassily Nebenzia told reporters that Navalny's claim is inherently insulting.

In response to Peskov's comments, Navalny on Thursday announced that he would sue the Kremlin spokesman and demanded that the alleged evidence of him working with the CIA be made public.

If the authorities, on behalf of which Peskov speaks, have evidence of the nonsense he is talking about, then it's a matter of Russias state security, and I demand that this evidence be published," Navalny said in his blog.

Before he was transferred to Berlin for treatment, Navalny spent two days in a coma in a hospital in the Siberian city of Omsk, where Russian doctors said they found no trace of any poisoning.

German chemical weapons experts determined that he was poisoned with the Soviet-era Novichok, the class of nerve agent that Britain said was used in a 2018 attack on former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter in Salisbury, England. Labs in France and Sweden corroborated the German findings.

Navalny told Der Spiegel that when he first fell ill on the plane he was taking from Siberia to Moscow, he was sure he was dying as he collapsed to the floor.

Then I hear voices growing ever quieter, and a woman calling: Dont leave us! Dont leave us! Then its over. I know Im dead, he said in the interview. Only later would it turn out that I was wrong.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel called the poisoning an attempted murder and she and other world leaders have demanded that Russia fully investigate the case.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel brief the media about measures to avoid further spread of the coronavirus after a government meeting at the chancellery in Berlin on April 20, 2020.

Merkel had personally offered Germany's assistance in treating Navalny, and the politician said even though he had no real previous contacts with the country, Germany has become a special country for me. He said he had rented an apartment in Berlin to use as he recovers.

Merkel visited him in the hospital before he was released, which Navalny said was totally unexpected, but a pleasant surprise.

We didnt discuss anything secret or sensational. The visit was a gesture, he said. I was impressed by how precisely she knows Russia and my case," adding: She knows some of the details better than I do.

And when you talk to her, you understand why she has been at the top in Germany for so long, Navalny said of Merkel. "I thanked her for her efforts and she said: I only did my duty.

Russia has bristled at demands for an investigation, saying that Germany needs to share medical data in the case or compare notes with Russian doctors. Germany has noted that Russian doctors have their own samples from Navalny since he was in their care for 48 hours.

The Hague-based Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons has collected independent samples from Navalny for testing, but results haven't yet been announced.

Navalny scoffed at the Russian demands for tests and blood samples, saying there should still be plenty of my blood in Omsk.

Theyre naturally not interested in dealing with the matter as such. All they care about is painting the German government in the worst possible light, he told Spiegel. "The next thing theyll do surely is accuse Angela Merkel of having personally poisoned me with Novichok.

The magazine described Navalny as joking and alert in the interview, but said his hands shook so much it was difficult for him to drink from a bottle of water. He also reiterated what his team has previously said  that he planned to return to Russia when he was able to do so.

Not going back would mean that Putin has won and achieved his goal, and my job now is to remain the guy who isnt afraid, Navalny said. And Im not afraid! When my hands shake, its not from fear - its from this stuff. I would not give Putin the gift of not returning to Russia.


A British judge said on Thursday she would give her decision early next year on whether WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange should be extradited to the United States to face charges including espionage.

The US authorities accuse Australian-born Assange, 49, of conspiring to hack government computers and of violating an espionage law in connection with the release of confidential cables by WikiLeaks in 2010-2011.

Judge Vanessa Baraitser told Londons Old Bailey Court at the conclusion of hearings from witnesses in the case that she would deliver her verdict on January 4.

Assanges lawyers argue that the charges are politically motivated, that his mental health is at risk, that conditions in US prisons breach Britains human rights laws, and that he and his lawyers were spied on while he was in the Ecuadorian embassy.

The legal team representing the United States have countered that many of those arguments are issues which should be addressed in a trial, and have no bearing on extradition.
An Taoiseach Micheal Martin T.D. will travel to Brussels to attend a special meeting of the European Council today, Thursday 1st October.

The Taoiseach will hold a bilateral meeting with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and attend the Renew Europe working lunch with other EU Leaders ahead of the European Council meeting.

The European Council will discuss how to deepen and strengthen the single market as a key tool to drive Europe's economic recovery. It will also consider how to improve the competitiveness of European industry.

Leaders will discuss Europes relationship with China following the recent EU-China summit. There will also be a discussion on Turkey-EU relations, including the situation in the Eastern Mediterranean, and Belarus.

The European Council will be briefed on the latest state of play in the Brexit negotiations which are continuing this week, and the Taoiseach will take the opportunity to share his assessment of recent developments with fellow leaders.

Speaking before his departure, the Taoiseach said,
2 1 of 2 Courtesy photo /U.S. Border Patrol Show More Show Less 2 of 2 Courtesy photo /U.S. Border Patrol Show More Show Less



Local and federal authorities shut down two stash houses in west Laredo, according to the U.S. Border Patrol.

The first case was reported on Tuesday evening. Homeland Security Investigations special agents and Webb County Precinct 2 Constables Office deputies responded to suspicious activity at an apartment on Salinas Avenue.
Afro-Cuban chairman of Proud Boys says they are not racist or white supremacists

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Enrique Tarrio, the Afro-Cuban international chairman of the far-right Proud Boys group of men who love America but hate political correctness, has publicly denounced racism and white supremacy after detractors began conflating them with white supremacists in the wake of the first presidential debate.

OK, so Im going to say it to you. Im going to give you the skinny. Im going to give it to you straight. I denounce white supremacy. I denounce anti-Semitism. I denounce racism. I denounce fascism. I denounce communism and any other -ism that is prejudice towards people because of their race, religion, culture, tone of skin, Tarrio said in an interview with WSVN Wednesday.

The Proud Boys group, which was started in 2016 by vice co-founder Gavin McInnes, has become one of the most debated subjects since they were mentioned during the debate between President Donald Trump and Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden on Tuesday night.

Moderator and "Fox News Sunday" anchor Chris Wallace asked the president if he was "willing tonight to condemn white supremacists and militia groups and to say that they need to stand down and not add to the violence in a number of these cities as we saw in Kenosha and we've seen in Portland?"

President Trump replied "sure" he was "willing to do that," but noted that "almost everything I see is from the left-wing."

Biden then mentioned the Proud Boys, which led to perhaps the most discussed line from the debate.

"The Proud Boys," Trump said. "Stand back and stand by. But I'll tell you what, I'll tell you what, somebody's got to do something about Antifa and the left, because this is not a right-wing problem."

The president, who has since denied knowing anything about the Proud Boys prior to their mention during the debate, has come under withering criticism from both the left and the right for not denouncing white supremacy and the Proud Boys more forcefully.

Jason Kessler, a white supremacist who identified as a Proud Boy, helped organize the Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, which attracted neo-Nazi groups and Klansmen, and resulted in the death of Heather Heyer and injury of 19 others in August 2017.

McInnes, who quit the group in 2018, previously tried to distance the Proud Boys from extremists, warning members that if you decide to rub elbows with those people [while] in colors, you very well could find yourself disavowed.

In his interview with WSVN, Tarrio noted that it was Biden who first mentioned his groups name during the debate and he didnt see Trumps response as an endorsement.

We dont consider it an endorsement by the president at all, Tarrio said. I believe stand back was kind of like answering Chris Wallaces question where he said to stand down, and he used the word stand back, but I think the point of controversy is the whole stand by thing. What I took from it, at least, is pretty much stand by me.'

The South Florida resident also argued that he believes his group is being demonized by the left for political gain.

Many people use us as political cannon fodder, Tarrio said. Its right before the election. The country has been rioting for four-plus months, and it is left-wing anarchists that are going out and burning down cities, and liberal politicians, Democratic politicians, need a boogeyman.
The Queen has been forced to cancel all major events at Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle for the rest of the year amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Receptions and events like investitures will be cancelled, palace officials confirmed today, despite attempts to find a compromise.

Buckingham Palace said on its website: 'In line with current Government guidelines, and as a sensible precaution in the current circumstances, there will be no large-scale events held at Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle for the rest of the year.

'A variety of possibilities were examined to see if it was possible for investitures to safely take place in line with the guidelines.

'Sadly, due to the large numbers of guests and recipients attending, it was not possible to find a way of safely delivering these events in the current circumstances. Recipients will be contacted directly.

'The Queen's intention remains to return to Windsor Castle in October and to resume the use of Buckingham Palace during an autumn programme of audiences and engagements, in line with all relevant guidance and advice.'

It comes as the Queen was pictured taking the wheel of her green Range Rover for a spin around the Norfolk countryside.

Her Majesty is expected to head back to 'HMS Bubble' at Windsor next week, with reports claiming Philip is 'being made' to return to the castle because there is not enough staff to create two anti-Covid-19 bubbles.

The Queen took to the wheel of her green Range Rover for a spin around the Norfolk countryside today

Donning a pair of sunglasses and a head scarf adorned with butterflies, the 94-year-old monarch looked deep in thought as she cruised down the tree-lined public roads of the Sandringham estate.

Last month she and husband Prince Philip, 99, cut short their summer holiday at Balmoral by three weeks to spend some time together at Wood Farm, where the Duke of Edinburgh now lives alone in a 'modest' five-bedroom home.

Palace officials are in the process of creating a special 'bubble' between Sandringham and Windsor, which means the Queen can travel between the two with the same team.

The 94-year-old monarch was seen driving alone on the public roads of the Sandringham estate

Donning a pair of sunglasses and a head scarf adorned with butterflies, the Queen looked deep in thought as she cruised down the tree-lined roads

Earlier this week the monarch was said to be 'furious' when employees of the Royal Household revolted against a plan for them to stay in a coronavirus bubble at Sandringham over Christmas.

A team of about 20 staff members had been asked to remain at the 20,000 acre property without their families to support her, Prince Philip and other members of the Royal Family during the festive period.

But the group  said to involve cleaners, laundry and maintenance workers - are believed to have mutinied because they are unwilling to isolate from loved ones for four weeks.

Staff were being asked to stay for the month-long period so they could remain in a Covid bubble to protect the 94-year-old monarch.

The uprising means the Queen could be forced to spend Christmas at Windsor Castle for the first time in 33 years.

The Queen typically spends her winter break at the Sandringham estate in Norfolk (pictured) but could be forced to spend Christmas at Windsor Castle for the first time in 33 years

Last month it was revealed Her Majesty will receive a bailout from the taxpayer after her land and property investments plummeted in value due to the coronavirus crisis.

The Treasury said that it will top up the Sovereign Grant to help maintain her income, which is severely threatened by the pandemic.

The monarch's income is based on a 25 per cent share of the profits of the Crown Estate, which owns valuable land in London and elsewhere.

Mid-September, the estate announced its profits would fall 'significantly' this year as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.
PASCAGOULA, Mississippi -- A second suspect has been arrested in connection with the murder of a Gautier man whose body was found in the Pascagoula River last week.

Jackson County Sheriff Mike Ezell said Wednesday investigators had arrested 23-year-old Taylor Allan Carpenter of Escatawpa and charged him as an accessory after the fact to capital murder in the death of 29-year-old Gautier resident Dustin Lee Suttles.

In addition to the accessory charge, Carpenter was out on bond for an unrelated charge and that bond has been revoked. He has also been charged with motor vehicle theft. He is not eligible to post bond and will remain in the Jackson County Adult Detention Center awaiting trial.

Already in the ADC is 33-year-old Joseph Paul McLeod of Pascagoula, charged with capital murder in Suttles' death. McLeod was also charged with probation violation, felony possession of marijuana, felony possession of methamphetamine, possession of a stolen firearm and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

As a capital murder suspect, McLeod is not eligible for bond and will also remain in the ADC awaiting trial.

Suttles' body was found last Tuesday (Sept. 29) near the Roy Cumbest Bridge near Wade-Vancleave Road, according to Jackson County Sheriff Mike Ezell. The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries & Parks recovered the body about 1 p.m.

The man had no identification on him, so investigators put out a photo of a distinctive tattoo on the mans arm in the hopes of determining his identity. By the next day, family members had seen the photo and notified the JCSO and identified Suttles as the victim.

At the time Suttles' body was recovered, an abandoned boat was also located about a quarter-mile from the body.

An autopsy was performed last week, but Jackson County Coroner Bruce Lynd Jr. said Thursday he would not release information on the cause of Suttles' death until the investigation concludes.
The First Lady, Mrs Rebecca Akufo-Addo has appealed to the electorate in the Adentan Constituency to retain the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in power for more development.



She said President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Mr Yaw Buaben Asamoa, the Member of Parliament for the Adenta Constituency needed another term in office to complete the development programmes for the people.



Mrs Akufo-Addo, who was on a campaign tour in the Constituency, said the NPP had kept faith with the people and deserved to be given another term in the December 7 elections to do more for the people.



She stated that the Government in its first term of office had implemented several social intervention policies and executed many infrastructural projects to set Ghana on the path of the Ghana beyond Aid Agenda.



The First Lady said the President also believed in enriching the nations human resource base and industrialisation as a sure way to ensuring sustained economic growth.



She said that was what influenced the President to implement policies such as the Free Senior High School programme, the One District One Factory [1D1F], and Planting for Food and Jobs initiatives, all of, which were geared towards empowering the people to build a vibrant industrial economy.



At the Adentan and Ogbojo markets, the First Lady appealed to the traders to vote massively for President Akufo-Addo and the Parliamentary Candidate to be able to secure a brighter future for their children.



She also announced that the Rebecca Foundation had started the process of building a creche at the Adentan market to provide a conducive place for children of the traders and assured that the Foundation would continue to complement the efforts of Government to address the developmental needs of all Ghanaians, especially women and children.



As part of her tour of the Constituency, Mrs Akufo-Addo, also visited the Frafraha Health Centre, where she interacted with management and staff as well as some patients and donated medical supplies including beds, nose masks, sanitizers, diapers, bed sheets, blankets, detergents and thermometer guns to the facility.



The First Lady congratulated the staff of the facility for their sacrifices during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic.



Mrs Akufo-Addo ended her tour with a durbar of chiefs and people at Ogbojo community, where she was welcomed by a large enthusiastic crowd, chanting, Four more for Nana to do more.



She expressed appreciation to the people for the warm welcome and thanked the constituents for supporting the Government in its first term in office.



She said the many programmes in the area of education, health and road construction, which had been executed in the Adentan Constituency, should inspire the people to vote for President Akufo-Addo and Mr Buaben Asamoa in the December elections.



Mrs Akufo-Addo was accompanied on the tour by, Lawyer Buaben Asamoa, the Parliamentary candidate and other Regional and Constituency executives of the Party.

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.

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Amazon stands out in World's Most Attractive Employers 2020 rankings

STOCKHOLM, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Universum's World's Most Attractive Employers rankings show students entering the workforce are doubling down on financial security and innovation; "high future earnings" is the number one priority when weighing a potential employer (and a bigger priority than in 2019), followed closely by "innovation" for engineering and IT students (chosen by 46%). For all students surveyed, Google, Apple and Microsoft were the top three employer brands. In 2020, among the companies gaining the most points in the rankings: Amazon, Volkswagen, J.P. Morgan, Daimler AG, Philips and LVMH.

"This year we witnessed interesting shifts in industry preferences among students across the globe," explains Richard Mosley, chief strategist at Universum. "Careers in professional services, banking and strategic consulting all dropped in prestige, while careers in IT, automotive and even manufacturing rose significantly. What we are witnessing is a strong desire among students to work for industries which are more associated with tech innovation which are shaping the future."

Universum, the global leader in employer branding, surveyed over 235,273 students in business, engineering and IT from the 12 largest economies between September 2019 to April 2020. The far-reaching survey asks students which employer characteristics are most influential as they consider future employment, and which employer brands they most admire.

Among other noteworthy findings from the research

The tech and automotive industries rose significantly as destination industries for students.

Employer branding leaders must rethink work culture in the work-from-home era.

Students say they prioritize high compensation, but this priority may weaken as the economic downturn moves into 2021.

Amazon has made huge strides over the last three years, rising 22 points among business students and 12 points among engineering and IT students.

World's Most Attractive Employers 2020

Business Ranking Top 10

Google Apple Microsoft Amazon Deloitte Goldman Sachs EY (Ernst & Young) PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers) J.P. Morgan L'Oreal Group

Engineering Ranking Top 10

Google Microsoft Apple BMW Group Amazon Intel IBM Siemens Samsung GE - General Electric

Universum is an insight-driven research, consulting and activation firm specialized in employer branding. For more info & full rankings please visit: https://universumglobal.com/wmae2020/

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1283774/Worlds_Most_Attractive_Employers_2020.jpg

CONTACT:Jonas Barck, Global CMO: jonas.barck@universumglobal.com, +46-706933388
Proposals to hold newly arrived asylum seekers on disused ferries or overseas have been branded illegal, expensive and illogical by immigration experts, former civil servants and politicians.

Leaked reports have shown Priti Patel's Home Office considered plans to process migrants off the UK mainland and also looked at floating walls to block asylum seekers crossing the Channel from Calais.

Matthew Rycroft, permanent secretary at the Home Office, told MPs on Thursday that all options were on the table.

But the plans were branded "inhumane" by Labour leader Keir Starmer, who said: "This isn't creative thinking, this is lurching from one ridiculous proposition to the next."

Ex-civil servants and prominent lawyers told The Independent the proposals were unrealistic and rooted in an attempt to look tough on the issue of immigration, when in fact they would do nothing to solve any problem  instead generating higher costs and more legal and moral issues for ministers.

Dave Wood, who was head of immigration enforcement under Theresa May, said the idea of processing asylum seekers on a disused ferry or remote islands would be illegal, impractical, expensive and illogical  and born only out of ministers trying to sound like theyve got a very tough response to the rise in Channel crossings.

He said: Once its been thought through Im sure they wont implement it because as they think it through theyll see its mad. More importantly, it doesnt solve any of the problems theyre trying to solve. At the end of the day, what would it solve? Absolutely nothing.

Its party politics and trying to sound tough to the public, but they cant answer the important questions."

The former civil servant also said it was unlikely to deter people from coming to the UK to seek asylum: Whether they think immigrants wont come here because they know they will be put on a boat in the middle of the Atlantic, I dont think that will wash. People will still come. Ultimately, many wont be returned home.

Tony Gray, a former Border Force employee who left five years ago, said he believed the ideas indicated the mindset of the government and the home secretary at the moment.

"Theyve made lots of promises and lots of tough statements about sending people back, but its very difficult for them to actually achieve that, and they knew that from the start.

Mr Gray added that some of the asylum seekers he saw arriving in Kent during his time with Border Force were extremely vulnerable and would not cope well in a far-flung centre: Many of them have gone through incredibly a lot, from those who have been bombed out of their homes, to those forced out by armed groups.

According to The Times, Number 10 is considering buying retired ferries and converting the vessels into processing centres to house asylum seekers off the UK coast, and also discussed moving migrants to decommissioned oil platforms in the North Sea for processing, but the idea was rejected.

The Guardian reported that the government was considering sending asylum seekers could to detention centres in Papua New Guinea, Moldova, or Morocco, in a version of the Australian offshore model.

It claimed leaked documents had revealed Downing Street had asked officials to look into the matter, but was met with pushback from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

The ideas echo those floated by the Labour government in 2003, which included establishing a protection zone in a country such as Russia or Albania, and a potential processing centre in Tanzania, but were quickly concluded to be unfeasible.

Jonathan Portes, professor of economics and public policy at Kings College London and former senior civil servant of more than 20 years, was chief economist at the Cabinet Office when those ideas were floated.

The motivation for this now is the same as it was then," he said. "The idea that we can somehow convince people that if they get here theyll be shipped offshore and theyll be in camps and their claims will probably be denied and theyll be shipped back home.

And the objections then were the same as what youve seen now  which is on the humane side, the legal side and the practical and cost side. Itll cost a lot, theyll end up with a lot of legal challenges and many of the people will end up staying here anyway."

He said that in order to resolve the issue of large numbers of people in the asylum system, the government must invest more resources in processing asylum claims quickly and humanely, referring to the growing backlog in the waiting times for asylum decisions.

Official figures show the number of asylum seekers waiting longer than half a year for their claim to be decided hit a record high this year after surging by 76 per cent in 12 months. Meanwhile, the number of people granted asylum reached its highest level in 16 years, with more than half of claimants granted protection at the initial decision stage, compared with only a third the previous year.

Mr Portes added: Whats the humanity in shipping people more than likely to be genuine asylum seekers off to some offshore processing centre where they may languish for years? This government has done some bizarre things so its not impossible. But would it actually achieve very much, probably not."

Immigration barrister Colin Yeo said the proposals were very unrealistic and were an attempt to confront a problem that was not really there.

There are huge practical obstacles to it, not just around the cost and logistics but the moral consequences on what happens when you detain people in that way in foreign countries, he said.

The one idea that does seem potentially doable and is probably lawful is putting people on a ferry. But why would you do that? There arent that many of them. If youre going to detain them, why not have them on-land?

Most of these people are genuine refugees, the numbers reaching the UK are much smaller than other EU countries, and the numbers are actually falling on previous years. The idea that you need extreme measures to deal with a problem that is not really a problem at all seems unreal.

Yvette Cooper, chair of the Home Affairs Select Committee, wrote a letter to the home secretary on Thursday saying the proposals seemed to be both extremely inappropriate in terms of the UKs commitments to human rights and to asylum, and an incredibly impractical and expensive way of doing so.

Adam Holloway, the Tory MP for Gravesham, said it was completely right for the Home Office to look at ways of deterring asylum seekers from coming to the UK, but called for any solution to be civilised.

Speaking to BBC Radio 4's Today programme on Thursday, he said: Talk of oil rigs and Moldova and Papua New Guinea, to me, is somewhat bizarre. You're determined for me to say it is a great idea to put people on islands - I'm not saying that.

The Home Office is completely right to look at other options so there is some sort of deterrent, but not the Australian model where you have poor welfare standards and everything else. We've got to find a civilised version of that.

Sonia Lenegan, legal director at the Immigration Law Practitioners Association, said the timing of the proposals was remarkable given that it came a day after the response to the Lessons Learned report was published, in which the Home Secretary spoke of building a better Home Office.

Australias offshore processing policies are absolutely not a system to be admired or emulated, they have received international condemnation because of the levels of human cruelty involved, she added.

Kate Allen, Amnesty international UK director, described the proposals as entirely immoral and inhumane, adding: It is a dismal reflection upon Home Office Ministers that this idea to effectively exile people seeking asylum to far-flung and isolated places has been given any consideration at all.

 Home Office to carry out review of hostile environment following Windrush says Priti Patel

For too long the Home Office has done its worst business behind closed doors, with little consideration of the needs, rights and welfare of women, men and children affected by it.

Stephen Hale, chief executive of Refugee Action, said the governments speculative plans were inhumane and morally bankrupt and steeped in racism, adding that they would expose vulnerable people to horrendous human rights abuse and trauma

The Home Office has been approached for comment.
The Concern Voters Movement has called on the members of the National Democratic Congress Manifesto drafting committee to explain to Ghanaians, their silence on the Saglemi Housing Project.



In their manifesto, the former President John Dramani Mahama who is leading the party in 2020 elections under Social Housing of the NDC Manifesto page 94, promised that The next NDC Government will, over a four year period roll out an aggressive social housing plan to deliver a minimum of 20,000 low-income houses in all 260 Metropolis, Municipalities and Districts.



"We at the CVM want to know; why Mr. Mahama and the entire NDCs Peoples Manifesto silent over Saglemi Affordable Housing project which the NDC government started in 2012 and is still uncompleted?



This was in a statement signed by Mr Razak Kojo Opoku, Founder and President of the CVM and copied to the Ghana News Agency in Accra.



It said a critical examination of the NDCs Peoples Manifesto depicts complete departure of reality.



The CVM said they expected that the 143-page document would be a social contract between the NDC and Ghanaians, giving millions of citizens aspirations to develop their potentials regardless of their social, economic and political backgrounds.



It said the NDC Peoples Manifesto depicted a different picture of what social democrats were aspiring for and rather focused on championing an agenda of winning the 2020 elections through policies.



The statement said among other promises under social housing, Mr. Mahama also pledged that The next NDC Government will work to end the crisis of access and cost of securing affordable land for residential purposes and the 5000 housing unit facility, which was started by the NDC administration in 2012, is seated on a 300-acre land with one to three bedroom apartments for low-income designed to reduce the countrys massive housing deficit. But what is the end result today?



It questioned how $200 million budgeted for 5000 housing units remained the same budget for 1,502 or 1,024 housing units and called on Ghanaian voters to reject the NDC in the coming elections.



The statement noted that the stalled Saglemi Housing Project was one of classic examples of how the NDC administration under Mr Mahama flawed.



It said, the NDC Peoples Manifestos failed to capture any aspect of their flagship housing project and the CVM will continue to expose them on some of their promises.

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.

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We are thrilled to partner with SynchronoSure and provide their insureds with the exceptional tools and solutions included in the SynchronoSure Resource Center, said Mike Naclerio, President & CEO of Enquiron.

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All enrolled insureds will have access to a variety of human resource and employment law content, tools and resources, including handbook building software, personalized alerts, news and more.

Steve Hartman, Chairman & CEO of Synchrono Group stated, We believe small employers, including both start-up organizations and established companies, will benefit from the additional value-added services we provide to our clients. Services available through our partnership with Enquiron include access to a variety of on demand HR related tools and resources that small employers need and to which they typically do not have ready access. I say this not just as a service provider and small business operator, but also as a customer of Enquiron.

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Border guards to be investigated for detaining Saakashvili during moving to Poland in 2018  PGO

The Prosecutor General's Office (PGO) has sent an indictment to the court against officials of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine on the fact of abuse of power or official powers by a law enforcement officer due to the detention in 2018 of former President of Georgia, former Head of Odesa Regional State Administration Mikhail Saakashvili.

"The pretrial investigation established that the former director of the Department of operational activities and the head of the Special Division for the implementation of special tasks of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine organized and carried out the illegal detention of Mikhail Saakashvili in Kyiv in February 2018. After that he was forcibly transferred by plane to the Republic of Poland in accordance with readmission," the PGO press service said on Thursday morning.

"With regard to other high-ranking officials of government authorities and law enforcement agencies involved in the commission of this criminal offense, the investigation continues," the PGO said.

The pretrial investigation in the criminal proceedings was carried out by investigators of the Main Investigation Department of the State Bureau of Investigations (SBI).

As reported, in July 2017, fifth President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko deprived Saakashvili of Ukrainian citizenship by his decree when he was in the United States.

On September 10, 2017, Saakashvili crossed the Polish-Ukrainian border surrounded by his supporters, which was accompanied by a confrontation with border guards and law enforcement officers. On September 22, 2017, the Mostysky District Court of Lviv region found Saakashvili guilty of illegally crossing the Ukrainian border.
A Florida city which was gifted a flock of swans by the Queen is set to sell up to 40 of the birds, saying they can no longer care for them after the population exploded.

Lakeland, located in the central part of the state, is known for its significant population of mute swans, and up to 80 of the waterfowl can be seen swimming on Lake Morton.

The city's very first swans were donated by Britain's Queen Elizabeth back in 1957, and they quickly became beloved tourists attractions.

However, in recent years, the birds have been breeding incessantly and it costs Lakeland a whopping $10,000 annual sum to feed them.

Now, officials want to sell some of their feathered friends in order to reduce expenses and provide proper care for the ones that will remain in the public's possession.

The Florida city of Lakeland is set to sell up to 40 swans during a sale later this month. One of the majestic birds is seen on Lake Morton

The birds are pictured during last year's 'swan roundup' where they are place into a pen to undergo 'annual wellness examinations'

'We currently have 80 swans here on Lake Morton to feed and care for, so we are looking to sell around 30 to 40 to ensure proper care for them all,' Bob Donahay, Lakeland's Director of Parks and Recreation, told CNN on Wednesday.

There have also been fears about overcrowding in the lake - with birds often seen fighting over space and moving off into unsafe areas. Two of the birds were killed this year by motorists after wandering onto the road.

Each year, the birds are rounded up on the lake and confined to large holding pens before they undergo 'annual wellness examinations' by local veterinarians.

The swan roundup will take place next Tuesday, with the expedition led by Steve Platt, Lakeland's Parks and Recreation Supervisor. He is known as the city's 'Swanfather'.

Once the birds are inspected and cleared by vets, they will then go on sale to the public.

Lakeland's Parks and Recreation Supervisor Steve Platt - who is known as the city's 'Swanfather - is seen trying to catch one of the birds on Lake Morton last year

The swans will be sold for $400 a pop - a price that officials say is well below market value

The swans will be sold for $400 each - a price that officials say is well below market value.

Lakeland will not conduct background checks on any prospective buyers, but say they will try to get to know what they intend to do with the birds.

'We will have a great conversation about who they [the buyers] are and what their plans are for the swan or swans,' Donahay told CNN.

'We will also make ourselves readily available if any of the swans experience medical issues down the road'.

Donahay says its likely that some will be sold to nursing homes and to wedding venues who hope to feature the majestic birds in ceremonies.

The city's very first swans were donated by Queen Elizabeth back in 1957, and they quickly became beloved tourists attractions

In Britain, the Royal Family claimed ownership of all mute swans in the 12th century - when they were regarded as a delicacy and often served at banquets and feasts.

Today the Queen retains the right to ownership of all unmarked mute swans in open water, but she only exercises her ownership on certain stretches of the River Thames and its surrounding tributaries.

Until 1998, under a law dating to the 12th century, it was classed as treason to kill or intentionally injure a swan in the United Kingdom.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. The reporters of the French Le-Monde and the staff accompanying them were shelled by Azerbaijani troops on October 1 in Artsakhs Martuni town. One of the civilians has died. This brings the number of civilians killed by Azerbaijani troops targeting civilians to 8, Armenian MoD spokesperson Shushan Stepanyan confirmed the information.

Yes, the civilian accompanying them has been killed, Stepanyan told ARMENPRESS.

Two French reporters of Le Monde, a cameraman for the ARMENIA TV Channel and a reporter of 24News were wounded as Azeri forces shelled the town of Martuni in Artsakh on October 1.

Editing and translating by Tigran Sirekanyan
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and former governor of Bayelsa State, His Excellency Timipre Sylva has been awarded Niger Delta Most Outstanding Minister of the Year by the Board of Directors of the Gbaramatu Voice Newspaper.

While presenting the award on behalf of Gbaramatu Voice Board of Governors, the deputy governor of Delta State His Excellency Kingsley Otuaro noted Sylva's efforts towards improving the economy and peace of the Niger Delta region over the years.

Sylva, who was represented by his Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs, Hon. Julius Bokoru described the Gbaramatu Voice as a new frontier of a genuine, legitimate Ijaw course.

The award was given at the conference centre of The Presidential Hotel, Port Harcourt, and the ceremony adhered strictly to the Covid 19 protocols

Receiving the award, Sylva said I am very honored to be here at this very grande 5th anniversary of this promising newspaper'

I thank the publisher, Mr Jacob Abai and his management team for the good work they have been doing these last five years. They have shown commitment to the fight for a greater Ijaw nation and a greater Niger Delta region'

'They have also, largely, been free from political inclinations and we will always support them as long as they remain on the humanitarian course that has endeared them to so many people across the nation'

'A good product always has a ready market and I urge the handlers of this paper to remain true and just to continue this really fine run'

I am humbled by this recognition. There are some emotions attached to this because, clearly, it is homecoming for me. This will certainly spur me to do more and continue in that quality your dear paper has seen in me'

The Gbaramatu Voice Newspaper has a bold trajectory and I am optimistic it will live up to that'.

Hon. Bokoru who stood in for the Minister was accompanied by Barr. Mrs Oyanbo Owei, Technical Assistant to the Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum Resources on Niger Delta/Unions and other Chieftains of the All Progressive Congress.
India has expressed serious concern over the escalation in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone and calls for immediate cessation of hostilities since the situation poses a threat to peace and security in the region.

The Indian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has declared that the conflict can be settled for a long term through negotiations.

We have seen alarming reports on the resumption of hostilities in Nagorno-Karabakh which began on the morning of September 27 and have caused deaths of both sides, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Anurag Shrivastava declared, adding that India affirms that the sides need to cease hostilities, show restraint and take all the possible steps to ensure peace.

Shrivastava also declared that India supports the efforts of the OSCE Minsk Group for a peaceful settlement of the conflict.
By Sanne Godfrey, Roseburg News-Review

WINSTON  Teachers at Douglas High are imploring the school board to delay the start of in-person education until Douglas County meets the state standards for reopening.

State guidelines set by the Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Department of Education say schools can only open for in-person instruction in grades four through 12 if there are 10 or fewer new cases of coronavirus per 100,000 people in the county for three weeks running.

While Douglas County for many weeks had one of the states lowest coronavirus case rates, it reported 17 new cases per 100,000 the week of Sept. 13 and 22 the week of Sept. 20.

Teachers in the Winston-Dillard school district, home to Douglas High, report that the two state agencies so far have not indicated they will honor teachers' requests that they force the district to end its plans to teach all students in person at least part of the time. The district serves about 1,400 students in and around the Douglas County communities of Winston and Dillard, about 10 miles south of Roseburg.

Because the districts middle school is considered rural, remote and small, it can reopen as long as it adheres to all other guidance set out by the Ready Schools, Safe Learners, the state teachers union said. But the high school, with about 375 students, is too large to qualify for the rural, remote and small exemption.

The district currently meets the states metrics to teach students in kindergarten through grade three in person.

Several staff and community members have filed complaints with the Oregon Department of Education and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration regarding the districts plan to reopen and individuals who refused to wear masks and socially distance.

Peter Rudy, a spokesperson for the education department, said two complaints had been filed against Winston-Dillard and the agency is reaching out to offer technical assistance.

Despite the clear-cut nature of the 10 cases per 100,000 people per week rule, Rudy said the agency isnt sure if the district reopening its high school breaks that rule. We have not yet made a determination as to whether the district is in compliance, he said.

Oregon OSHA spokesperson Aaron Corvin said he found no records of complaints against the Winston-Dillard School District in the last month when he searched this week, but said that could be due to lag time.

Corvin noted that most complaints against schools will be referred to the state education department.

Currently, Winston-Dillard School District has in-person, on-site education for preschool through eighth grade, while the high school is using comprehensive distance learning.

During its Sept. 9 meeting, the school board decided the high school would return to a hybrid learning model on Oct. 5. The school boards next meeting will be Oct. 14.

In a Facebook post Saturday, Superintendent Kevin Miller said schools are a safe haven for many students who struggle with poverty, abuse and food insecurity at home.

The Oregon Department of Education, he wrote, seems to believe that if everyone stays home, everyone is safe. Sadly, this is a misperception probably related to their unfamiliarity with the poverty communities of Douglas County. Also, sadly, (department) staff probably couldnt even find Douglas County without a GPS, so I doubt there will be much improvement in their understanding of this area in the near future. In our community, we have a number of students that do not have nice clean, warm, quiet homes (if they have homes at all) that they can stay home in to study and access their education or other needed services. These students are the most vulnerable and under-served students that come from fractured families. These fractured families are often at least partially caused by abuse issues (substance and other forms) often related to living in poverty. These students do not necessarily have a voice nor much of a choice about where they stay during the day when not in school. Our schools truly are the best places they can be.

About a dozen staff members at Douglas High School called in sick for a freshman orientation that was scheduled for Thursday, and its possible at least that many staffers will call in sick Monday when the school is set to reopen.

There are not enough substitute teachers in Douglas County to take over all in-person courses at the high school, which means until staff and administration come to an agreement, there will be no school, said teachers union leader Kimberly Mincher, who teaches at the high school.

Winston-Dillard school board chair Lorna Quimby said the choice to open the high school nearly a month after that meeting was to accommodate the staff so they can have adequate time to transition from online to in-person learning, according to Quimby.

The freshman orientation was postponed for Thursday and all classes were canceled  including comprehensive distance learning courses.

Quimby said the high school will be open Monday.

Staff members sent a letter to Miller, the superintendent, earlier in the week to voice their concerns.

The staff of DHS is asking for an extension on our reopening date due to safety concerns in regards to the increasing cases of the COVID-19 virus within our county, the letter stated. "Numerous staff members have come forward with concerns regarding personal health, familial health, cohort sizes, building spacing, and unmet state and county metrics.

While the entire staff at DHS appreciates the work and care the district administration has put into the reopening process, the vast majority of the staff do not feel comfortable returning to in-person instruction at this time.

Miller did not respond to phone calls and email from The News-Review. Douglas High School Principal Craig Anderson did not respond to an email from The News-Review.

Quimby said, Kids need to be in the classroom because sometimes they miss out. We have kids that dont get support from parents. We need to meet every childs need.

Continuing with online learning only is an option for parents or children who do not feel safe returning to school.

Quimby said the district is working on getting additional help and has created a hybrid education plan for the high school that will allow for smaller class sizes and thus less exposure for staff and students. The district is also setting up technical support for those who choose to continue learning from home.

The Oregon Education Association also submitted a review of the reopening metrics in which it stated that because the high school was not open before Sept. 21 and the school has an enrollment of more than 250 students is does not meet the metrics. For these reasons, the high school should continue with comprehensive distance learning until the county case rates once again lower to 10 or fewer per 100,000.

Douglas Public Health Officer Bob Dannenhoffer said during a Facebook Live Q&A on Tuesday that although the case rates in Douglas County are rising, they are still below the state average and lower than counties of comparable size.

The statewide case rate last week was 48.1 per 100,000. Crook, Harney, Sherman and Wheeler counties are the only counties in Oregon to have three consecutive weeks of 10 or less cases per 100,000, according to OHA.

Staffers at Douglas High School can call in sick for three days, before the district can ask to see a doctors note. If staff can not provide a doctors note they risk losing their job. Several staffers were prepared to go past the three days.

We know the risks were taking by fighting this, Mincher said. We just feel like: If theyre going to put out a metric based on science, that we should be following that.

However, there was some hope that the issue would be resolved by Monday.

The current action at Douglas High School is a continued sign of tension between educators within the Winston-Dillard School District and the administration and school board.

A counselor at Winston Middle School announced she resigned because she didnt believe the school was meeting the metrics and would endanger her health.

When The News-Review first reported the tension, several people took to Facebook to leave comments.

John Poore wrote, The schools need to open. I completely support the Winston Dillard school board and Superintendent Miller in this decision. I have kids at Douglas High School and what is happening to them and others is damaging and far worse than the possibility of the virus. There are most certainly some at risk members of the population who should isolate. The majority, however, need to be back at school. If a staff member is in an at risk category they should stay home. Those who are not do not have my support in walking off the job.

Kim Dunstan wrote, We support the schools OPENING! Our children need to get back to school!
Source: Xinhua| 2020-09-29 11:33:19|Editor: huaxia

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HARARE, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Schools in Zimbabwe reopened Monday for the final examination classes, six months after they were closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Primary and secondary schools in the southern African country closed in March, just a week before the end of the first term.

Salome Mutsinze, CEO and founder of Harare-based Mother Touch Group of Schools, said her schools had complied with all preventative protocols required to stem the spread of COVID-19 before the resumption of classes.

"In the classrooms, we have ensured that there is adequate social distance, more than a meter distance; we have personalized desks and chairs; every child is using his or her personalized desk and chair, no sharing of anything," Mutsinze said.

"We have also personalized their bathrooms whereby two children are using one toilet so that if anything goes wrong we can track it back," Mutsinze noted, adding schools have also made sure that every student adheres to COVID-19 protective measures.

Besides, schools have introduced online lessons to ensure that students continue to learn from home while physical classes were closed during the lockdowns.

"Our learners have been learning throughout the COVID-19 lockdown. We introduced online learning whereby learners have been learning continuously," Mutsinze said.

The government has set Dec. 1 as the date for commencement of locally-run Zimbabwe School Examination Council public examinations.

Britain-run Cambridge examination classes resumed on Sept. 14, with tests expected to start on Thursday.

A phased reopening of classes for all learners will be completed by November.

The resumption of schools comes at a time when most sectors of the economy have fully resumed operations following a relaxation of COVID-19 preventative measures.

The country is seeing declining daily infections and deaths. As of Monday, Zimbabwe has recorded 7,816 confirmed cases, including 6,112 recoveries and 228 deaths. Enditem
The Swedish Intellectual Property Office (PRV) granted Hexicon two new patents, both describe the unique features of Hexicon's concept for floating wind power foundations. Hexicon believes protecting IP and patents is an essential part of their product development and a key value driver for the company going forward. "We consider the granted patents as proof of our innovative abilities and our desire to stay forward looking. They are a direct result of our continuous efforts in creating and developing a technology with a leading competitive edge" - Niklas Hummel, Hexicon's CTO. Subsequently, several national patents around the world are expected, strengthening Hexicon's IP protection globally. "This grew out of the ambition to position ourselves outside of the conventional technical solutions available today. These patents are a step towards finding solutions that support and advance the much-needed energy transition and at the same time they are important for Hexicon." - Henrik Baltscheffsky, CEO. As most of the ocean is deeper than 50 m and ever increase constraints on developments near the shoreline, floating wind is deemed the best long-term solution for offshore wind, with an aggregate potential of floating wind in Asia, Europe and the US of more than 7 000 GW. Consequently, these patents enable Hexicon to remain at the forefront of the industry as it grows exponentially.

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.
A logo of Singapore Telecommunications (Singtel) is seen outside its building in Singapore on February 12, 2016.

Singapore Telecommunications said on Thursday its Group Chief Executive Officer Chua Sock Koong will retire in January after 13 years in the role.

The company's board has chosen insider Yuen Kuan Moon, currently CEO of Singtel's Singapore consumer business, as successor to Chua who will stay on as senior advisor to the Chairman to assist with the transition.

The appointment of Yuen, also Singtel's chief digital officer, comes after the telecom giant in April won one of the licenses to build a 5G network in the country.

Chua, 62, joined the company 31 years ago and as its CEO, she led the international expansion of the business by acquiring Australia's Optus and a stake in India's Bharti Airtel, among other investments.
ROCHESTER  The seven police officers suspended over the killing of Daniel Prude after he was restrained on a city street followed their training "flawlessly" and deserve to be reinstated, attorneys for the officers said Thursday.

"It's easy from a lay person's perspective to sit back and judge what happened on that night," attorney James Nobles said at a news conference with three other attorneys at the police union office.

The attorneys played police training video of the restraining technique known as "segmenting" they said was used on Prude after officers encountered him naked and apparently under the influence of phencyclidine, or PCP, in March. The training video shows one officer kneeling on the back of a face-down subject, while a second officer uses his body weight to press the subject's head to the ground.

The image is similar to police body camera video released last month showing Prude being held to the pavement by police who also handcuffed him and put a mesh spit hood over his head. The officers held him down for about two minutes until Prude stopped breathing. He was taken off life support and died a week later.

The Monroe County medical examiner listed the manner of death as homicide caused by "complications of asphyxia in the setting of physical restraint" and cited PCP as a contributing factor.

Attorney Matthew Rich said Prude's use of PCP, which caused irrational behavior, was "the root cause" of Prude's death, not the officers' response.

Attorney General Letitia James announced Sept. 5 that she would empanel a grand jury to investigate. The City Council also has approved an investigation.

The Prude family's release of the video last month ignited daily protests in Rochester and led to the replacement of the police chief.

Protesters, who gathered outside during the news conference, have called for the officers who interacted with Prude, who was Black, to be fired. They are suspended with pay.

"There may need to be conversations about training and conversations about who responds to a mental health intervention. But under the facts and circumstances as they've been provided in this case, these officers did exactly what they were trained to do and they did it flawlessly," said Nobles, who represents Officer Mark Vaughn.

An email requesting comment was sent Thursday to a spokeswoman for Mayor Lovely Warren.

The lawyers also defended the officers' decision not to cover the naked Prude with a blanket or put him in a police car while awaiting an ambulance as a light snow fell, saying the PCP made him feel hot. The officers were with Prude for 11 minutes before he was put in the ambulance, they said.

Rich said one of the officers, Paul Ricotta, was not at the scene when Prude was being restrained, and another, Andrew Specksgoor, was in his patrol car. The other suspended officers are: Josiah Harris, Troy Taladay, Francisco Santiago and Sgt. Michael Magri.

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TORONTO, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- From 1941 till 1967, Albert Kanter and the Gilberton Publishing Company produced 298 Classic Comics/Classics Illustrated titles in the United States. In 1964, a West Coast financier, Patrick Frawley, read a Classics Illustrated comic belonging to one of his children and was thus prompted to telephone the Gilberton Company to negotiate the purchase of the property. Albert Kanter signed off on the deal in December of 1967 for $500,000 USD. (That's about 4 million U.S. dollars in today's market.)

The interior zinc CMYK plates, now belonging to Frawley Corp, were stored in a Bronx warehouse. These engraving plates were metal reproductions of the artwork. All proofs, mats and electros were made from these engraving plates. Most of the copper engraving plates for the CI cover artwork are currently held by a collector in Michigan.

In August of 2011, First Classics, Inc. (FCI), headed by Richard S. Berger, purchased the rights and assets to Classics Illustrated held by the Frawley Corporation, including the printing plates.

In October of 2011, FCI transferred all 22 tons of original CI engraving plates from the Bronx warehouse to their Canadian sub-licensee Jack Lake Productions Inc. ( JLP) in Toronto, Canada, so that new digital CI artwork could be created.

The estimated value of 234 complete and 19 incomplete zinc CMYK plates of the interior pages of the US Gilberton CI titles is approximately 2 million U.S. dollars. Each zinc plate weighs 3 pounds. JLP, together with FCI, is interested in selling these plates as a lot.

Any interested parties in purchasing these one-of-a-kind, original, historical, Americana engraving plates for the Gilberton CI artwork should contact Jaak Jarve at Jack Lake Productions Inc. 1-800-269-9206 or email [email protected].

Related Images

no-7-robin-hood-classics.jpg

No.7 Robin Hood Classics Illustrated

SOURCE Jack Lake Productions Inc.
With the addition of a new nurse navigator, patients at the Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center at St. Lukes The Woodlands Hospital will have one more resource to count on as they navigate treatment.

Jessica Miller, who also operates as the clinical nurse for the center, started in her new role in March.

The role of the nurse navigator isnt a new one within the health care field but is new to the cancer center, which is part of the CHI St. Lukes health systems.

The St. Lukes The Woodlands location is an extension of the flagship Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center at Baylor St. Lukes Medical Center located in the Texas Medical Center.

As the nurse navigator, Miller helps facilitate the care for new patients who have been recently diagnosed.

When patients come through our doors, the whole process of getting a diagnosis can be very daunting, just very stressful, Miller said. The nurse navigator helps get the patient started.

Before this role was created at the cancer center, the many aspects of the nurse navigator job were being filled by various other staff members. Now, the coordination and education for the patient are more concentrated.

The nurse navigator helps educate patients about treatment, coordinate with necessary treatments like CT scans, coordinate with referrals to other departments, and helps provide access to resources like social workers or financial assistance. Miller acts as a liaison and advocate for her patients. The central point between doctors, nurses, and caregivers.

Miller started her nursing career in Colorado at an acute care placement center for trauma and oncology. She moved to The Woodlands about three years ago and has seen the cancer center go through several changes in structure and location. One of the things she loves about being the nurse navigator is being able to help her patients understand their treatment options through education.

Being that advocate for them was something I really enjoyed and I think they saw that and asked if I would be interested in the position, Miller said of being approached for the nurse navigator job.

While in high school, Miller did a semester-long internship at her local hospital and discovered that she enjoyed working in the medical field. After graduating from nursing, she was introduced to oncology while shadowing a nurse at the same hospital who explained that she loved her job because the patients in oncology took a positive and uplifting approach to life. Those arent usually the words that people think of when they think of oncology, but Miller discovered that the nurse was right.

A lot of those patients are very positive people, despite everything theyre going through, she said. That was what made me pursue an oncology-focused career.

Since she started in March, Millers career as the nurse navigator has been almost entirely during the COVID-19 pandemic. Shes looking forward to being able to invite patients families into the office. Currently, only patients are allowed into the office to reduce the risk of infecting patients who are immunocompromised.

In the six months that she has filled the position, she has already learned a lot. One of the reasons she took the position was for the opportunity to expand her clinical knowledge, and thats exactly what shes done. What she learns she passes along to her patients.

Miller helps handle all new patient intakes as well as established patients from in-patient consults. Lots of organization and collaboration with the centers team helps keep everything moving. Her background as a nurse has given her plenty of practice with time management and creating connections and relationships with patients. In her new role, shes able to create deeper relationships as she sees her patients consistently over time.

I think thats what keeps our patients coming back because they know that our team cares about them, we want them to do well, she said. A lot of my experience and what Ive learned has been through our staff here.

jamie.swinnerton@chron.com
With the 25-year deal with China now moving ahead at pace, Iran has a buyer for all of the crude oil it can produce, albeit at discounted levels, so Tehran is pushing oil field development across the board. This includes not only the major fields in the huge West Karoun cluster  across which China has pledged to increase collective output by at least 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) within the next two years  but also the more challenging fields that nonetheless are rich in oil, especially those that are shared with Iraq. In order to meet these challenges, Iran is resuscitating a program of engaging top domestic universities to work on the scientific challenges of increasing recovery rates, in addition to utilizing human, technological, and financial resources from China and Russia as and when required, with the Azar field being a test-case for such co-operation. Located in Mehran at the edge of the Zagros mountains and the other side of the shared reservoir that yields the Badra field on the Iraq side, Azar is poised to begin full Phase 1 production of 65,000 bpd. According to a statement last week from the Petroleum Engineering and Development Companys (PEDEC) director of the Azar field project, Keyvan Yarahmadi: With the successful commissioning of oil trains and the ancillary central processing facility, this project is on the verge of reaching its envisaged production capacity. He added: The SAT [Site Acceptance Testing] of the crude oil metering system in the joint field will be done soon and the production test of 21 out of 28 days of final production from this field will begin. Even before the finalization of Phase 1 production, he underlined, the Azar field had already produced more than 30 million barrels of crude oil.

This is a testament to the determination of Iran to optimize the output of fields that it shares with Iraq  the other key ones are Dehloran (Iraq side, Abu Ghurab), Naft-Shahr (Khorramshahr), Azadegan (Majnoon), Naft Shahr (Khorramshahr), Yadavaran (Sinbad)  as the Azar oil field is the most challenging all of the principal prospects in the Anaran bloc, which also includes Changuleh and Dehloran. The entire area around the Azar field was peppered with a vast number of mines planted during the 1980-1988 Iran-Iraq war. Once they had been cleared, developers were left to deal with Azars surface stony ground and condensed reservoir rock, with each well taking an average of 500 days to drill. Related: Oil Bulls Return As OPEC+ Reassures Markets Initial production commenced on 14 March 2015 at 15,000 bpd, with eight wells completed at that time, but the drilling time was more than halved once Iran gained access after the implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on 16 January 2016. This included the utilization of acid stimulation of wells and horizontal and directional drilling equipment and technology.

The drive to complete Phase 1 of Azar has not just been a product of the general wish to optimize oil production from the fields it shares with Iraq but also of new studies that sharply revised up the in-place oil reserves of this field to 4 billion barrels, twice the previously estimated figure. The Phase 2 production target of at least 71,500 bpd - plus around 80 million standard cubic feet of gas per day (mmscfd)  is due to be reached by the end of this Iranian calendar year (ending on 20 March 2021, Gregorian calendar equivalent), according to a senior oil and gas industry source who works closely with Irans Petroleum Ministry.

There was always a plan for a third phase as well, which would involve pushing production up to over 100,000 barrels per day, but this was always contingent on the participation of a major IOC [international oil company], the source exclusively told OilPrice.com last week. This is essential due to the complexity of the field in terms of drilling and of the type of oil produced  which has an API gravity of 33, light by Arabian standards, but with high sulfur content - that requires high-spec technology and machinery made from advanced alloys, he said. Because of the difficulties with the Azar field, the original plan was to allow any participating IOC to also develop the nearby Changuleh and Dehloran fields under very beneficial terms to offset the extra costs associated with the Azar development, he added.

Originally, Norways Statoil started developing the Anaran oil field in 2003 and when oil was found in 2005 (in both Azar and Changuleh) it was joined by Russias Lukoil in developing the site. Lukoil pulled out of its 25 percent stake in the entire Anaran block in 2008/9 after various sanctions by the U.S. and E.U. countries were imposed, followed by Statoil from its 75 percent stake in 2011, after the sanctions were intensified. When the JCPOA was agreed in principle in 2015, a number of IOCs signed memoranda of understandings for fields in the Anaran block, either for singular or multiple fields, including Norways DNO, Thailands PTTEP, and Russias Gazprom Neft and Lukoil again. A corollary was that a preliminary agreement with Austrias OMV was also reached to invest up to US$6 billion in a petrochemical plant at the Dehloran site. Related: Chinas Crude Oil Imports Are Slowing Down

Given the unilateral withdrawal of the U.S. from the JCPOA in 2018 and the subsequent far-reaching sanctions imposed, Iran has been left to look for assistance from China and Russia, although Tehran wants to indigenize as much of the technology, equipment, and expertise as quickly as possible in the process. Specifically, this is to include using the expertise available in Iranian universities and similar academic institutions from their Chinese and Russian counterparts. According to comments made last week by Irans Petroleum Minister, Bijan Zanganeh, the National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC) has just signed 13 contracts worth IRR7,160 billion (US$170 million) with local universities and research centers to carry out studies on oil and gas fields. This will augment the 22 major research contracts with a total value of IRR 10,090 billion that have been geared towards improving enhanced oil recovery (EOR) techniques over the past five years, and thereby increasing the recovery rate across Irans oil fields. In fact, about half of Irans current crude oil production of 2.5 million bpd is sourced from oil fields that are more than 70 years old - including the Ahwaz-Asmari, Marun, and Gachsaran fields  in which it will be necessary to employ further EOR techniques, over and above the reinjection of associated gas already having employed by Iran on its own.

Onshore, according to the Iran source, around six to eight percent of fields are experiencing loss of output that can only be restored with EOR techniques, whilst offshore the figure is between 12 to 15 percent, so plugging these gaps is crucial in meeting further net crude production increase targets. At the same time, he added, the general recovery rate across Irans key fields, including most of those in the vital West Karoun oil field cluster, is only around 4.5-5.5 percent, whilst the average recovery rate across Saudi Arabia (with the same US$1-2 per barrel lifting costs  excluding capital expenditure - as Iran, broadly implying the same ease of extraction) is well over 50 percent.

In fact, before the U.S. withdrew from the JCPOA [Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action] in [May] 2018, a number of IOCs looking to become involved in Iran provided detailed and realistic plans to the [Iran] Petroleum Ministry of how they could increase the average recovery rate in the West Karoun fields and other similar reservoirs to at least 12.5 percent within the first 12 months, then 20 percent the year after, and then up to 50 percent over the following five years at most, said the Iran source. Indeed, according to Zanganeh last week, recent studies by Irans selected universities focused on the Azadegan reservoirs (covering the North and South fields): Have reached a stage where it is possible to improve the extraction coefficient of the field by 10 percent, which will generate roughly US$200 billion more wealth for the country.

By Simon Watkins for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Kolkata, Oct 1 : The 17-year old daughter of Ekbalpur murder victim Akida Khatun (45), who was allegedly hacked to death on September 25 by her brother-in-law Sultan Ansari, succumbed to grievous injuries at a Kolkata hospital on Thursday.

Taiba Khatun (17) and her elder sister Shagufta were admitted to a hospital with critical injuries while their mother Akida had been declared brought dead by the doctors. Shagufta is still admitted in the hospital.

The 45-year-old woman was allegedly killed and her two daughters were critically injured by Ansari over a family dispute. Police sources said Ansari wanted to marry Akida's daughter but the parents didn't agreed to it so he killed Akida and injured two daughters.

The incident took place in Kolkata's Ekbalpur area. According to police, the person did confess to his crime and surrendered himself to the local Ekbalpur police station after the incident. And he was arrested immediately.

Kolkata mayor Firhad Hakim has visited the spot at Dr. Sudhir Bose Road after the incident. He said the murder was outcome of a family dispute.
Photo: The Canadian Press

This year's U.N. General Assembly meeting began with calls for multilateralism and co-operation  a declaration that the urgency for countries to unite has rarely been greater. It concluded with a parade of divisive grievances that echoed when the final gavel fell.

Leader after leader in days of speeches delivered virtually stressed the importance of working together to navigate the coronavirus outbreak and the challenges that lie beyond it. As Germanys foreign minister put it, COVID-19 shows that international co-operation is neither an ideology nor an end in itself. On the contrary, it delivers results, far beyond the actual pandemic.

Words, though, are not results. Though the U.N. and most of its member states largely envision a multilateral world, the underlying issues and challenges that divide nations sat squarely in the spotlight, as the right of reply at the end of the closing session demonstrated vividly.

One by one they came forward  lower-level diplomats tasked with replying to leaders speeches with intense responses.

On the hot-button conflict of the moment, between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the separatist enclave of Nagorno-Karabakh, diplomats from the two countries went after each other over responsibility for the latest fighting. Bangladesh went after Myanmar over the more than 700,000 Rohingya Muslims who fled a crackdown by Myanmars military in 2017 and are living in camps in Bangladesh, still fearful of returning home -- and Myanmar responded.

Iran went after Israel over the speech by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who claimed that the Islamic Republic would have enough enriched uranium in a few months for two nuclear bombs after it recently began exceeding limits set by the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers.

An Iranian diplomat accused Israel of disregarding U.N. resolutions on negotiating a two-state solution with the Palestinians, and countered that Israel poses the most serious threats to the security of the states in the Middle East because of its widely reported nuclear program, which Israel has never acknowledged.

The United Arab Emirates took the floor over a dispute with Iran over three Iranian-occupied islands the UAE claims and Tehrans destabilizing conduct in the region, including supporting Houthi Shiite rebels in Yemen. The UAE, in turn, vehemently dismissed Irans allegation that the UAE was destabilizing Mideast security.

Iran, again asked to reply, insisting on its claim to the islands and accusing the UAE of using starvation as a war tactic in Yemen. The UAE intervened for a second time, insisted the islands are occupied.

A Yemeni diplomat then responded to the Iranian, saying: How does he dare speak about the situation in Yemen while he is responsible for the situation?" The Yemeni accused Iran of continuing their intervention to destabilize my country by providing money, weapons, training and equipment to establish their expansionist plan across the region.

While all the leaders delivered prerecorded speeches, the diplomats late Tuesday spoke in person, seated behind their countrys nameplate in the vast General Assembly Hall where virus restrictions meant only one representative of each of the 193 U.N. member nations was allowed.

The main in-person event was a virtual U.N. Security Council meeting that sparked one of the few real-time exchanges and centred the escalating U.S. confrontation with China. The clash at the meeting was over responsibility for the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw Russia back Beijing. But the U.S.-China confrontation extends to trade issues, claims in the South China Sea and Taiwan.

Chinas U.N. Mission issued a statement just before midnight Tuesday night protesting U.S. Ambassador Kelly Crafts participation in an online event hosted by Taiwan on Monday. It said her remarks undermined Chinas sovereignty and territorial integrity.

There is only one China in the world, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of Chinas territory, the mission said.
Over the last few decades, there has been growing concern about loneliness across all ages, particularly in middle-aged and older adults. Loneliness, defined as feeling isolated or not having an adequate number of meaningful personal connections, is consistently associated with unhealthy aging and has been identified as a major risk factor for overall adverse health outcomes.

In a recent cross-cultural study, researchers at University of California San Diego School of Medicine and University of Rome La Sapienza examined middle-aged and older adults in San Diego and Cilento, Italy and found loneliness and wisdom had a strong negative correlation.

The study, publishing in the October 1, 2020 online edition of Aging and Mental Health, suggests wisdom may be a protective factor against loneliness.

"An important finding from our study was a significant inverse correlation between loneliness and wisdom. People with higher scores on a measure of wisdom were less lonely and vice versa," said Dilip V. Jeste, MD, lead investigator of the study, senior associate dean for the Center of Healthy Aging and Distinguished Professor of Psychiatry and Neurosciences at UC San Diego School of Medicine.

"Loneliness was consistently associated with poor general health, worse quality of sleep and less happiness, whereas the reverse was generally true for wisdom."

Using the UCLA Loneliness Scale and San Diego Wisdom Scale, the researchers examined four groups: adults age 50 to 65 and those older than age 90 from Cilento and from San Diego. The researchers found the inverse correlation between loneliness and wisdom in all four groups.

"We translated the rating scales for loneliness and wisdom from English to Italian. It is remarkable that the findings related to these two traits were largely similar in two markedly different cultures -- a rural region of southern Italy and an urban/suburban county in the United States, both with different native languages and unique historical, educational and socioeconomic backgrounds," said Salvatore Di Somma, MD, PhD, lead Italian investigator and professor of emergency medicine at University of Rome La Sapienza.

The Cilento region in southwestern Italy is a relatively isolated, rural area believed to have a high concentration of individuals older than age 90. The present study was born out of the Cilento Initiative on Aging Outcomes (CIAO) study launched in 2016.

"Both loneliness and wisdom are personality traits. Most personality traits are partially inherited and partially determined by environment," said Jeste.

Wisdom has several components, such as empathy, compassion, self-reflection and emotional regulation. Researchers found that empathy and compassion had the strongest inverse correlation with loneliness. People who were more compassionate were less lonely.

"If we can increase someone's compassion, wisdom is likely to go up and loneliness is likely to go down," said David Brenner, MD, vice chancellor of UC San Diego Health Sciences. "At UC San Diego, we have considerable interest in enhancing empathy and compassion to reduce levels of stress and improve happiness and well-being."

Jeste said studies that examine how to decrease loneliness as people age will be critical for effective interventions and the future of health care.

"Routine assessment of loneliness with evidence-based, compassion-focused interventions for prevention and management of loneliness should become an integral part of clinical practice. So how do you increase compassion? Utilizing approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy or writing in a gratitude diary can help someone become more compassionate," he said.

Jeste noted that a limitation of this study was that it was cross-sectional. Only longitudinal studies can establish cause-and-effect relationships. Next steps will include testing an intervention to increase compassion for reducing loneliness.

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Co-authors include: Ellen Lee, Tanya Nguyen, Rebecca Daly, Jinyuan Liu, Xin Tu, Douglas Ziedonis, and Danielle Glorioso, all at UC San Diego; Mara Scalcione and Alice Biaggi from University of Rome; and Paola Antonini, GREAT Health Science, Italy.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 1, ARMENPRESS. White House spokeswoman Kayleigh McEnany referred to the question of Azerbaijani aggression against Nagorno Karabakh during her briefing. ARMENPRESS reports she reminded that U.S. President Donald Trump, together with Russian President Vladimir Putin and French President Emmanuel Macron, who represent that Co-chair countries of the OSCE Minsk Group, issued a statement condemning the escalation of the situation along the entire line of contact of the conflict zone, urging to cease the military operations.

We also call on Armenia and Azerbaijan to resume negotiations without delay and without preconditions under the auspices of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-chairs, she said.

Editing and translating by Tigran Sirekanyan
John C. Hagee, a Texas evangelist, speaks at Harvest Rock Church in Pasadena in 2014. (Ken Hively / Los Angeles Times)

A federal appeals court decided 2 to 1 Thursday to uphold Gov. Gavin Newsom's coronavirus restrictions on indoor worship during the pandemic.

The majority of the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals panel said California's health orders on churches did not discriminate against religious expression.

Health orders apply "the same restrictions to worship services as they do to other indoor congregate events, such as lectures and movie theaters," the majority wrote. "Some congregate activities are completely prohibited in every county, such as attending concerts and spectating sporting events."

Pasadena-based Harvest Rock Church asked for an emergency motion to block Newsom's health orders on churches, but judges Johnnie B. Rawlinson, a Clinton appointee, and Morgan Christen, an Obama appointee, voted to reject the request.

Judge Diarmuid O'Scannlain, a Reagan appointee, dissented.

"At present, in 18 counties in California  home to more than 15 million residents and including its most populous county, Los Angeles  indoor religious worship services are completely prohibited," O'Scannlain wrote. "California insists that this drastic measure is necessary to fight the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic  a worthy and indeed compelling goal of any state."

But O'Scannlain said those same counties allow indoor malls, nail salons, meatpacking plants and laundromats to be open, and the Constitution does not allow the state to apply rules more aggressively to religious activities than to secular ones.

He said the Constitution does not protect the state from applying health rules more aggressively to religious activities than secular ones.

In a similar case brought by a California church, the U.S. Supreme Court decided 5 to 4 in May to allow Newson's health restrictions to continue.

Although the 9th Circuit panel denied Harvest Rock's emergency motion, the court will continue to review the case. Mat Staver, founder and chairman of Liberty Counsel, a religious liberties group, said he was grateful for O'Scannlain's dissent. It was more than three times as long as the majority decision.

Story continues

"We look forward to the next round at the Court of Appeals on the full merits of our request to block the 1st Amendment violations," Staver said. "While the virus does not discriminate between nonreligious and religious gatherings, Gov. Newsom does."

This summer, Harvest Rock was openly defying state and local orders against indoor church services.

The Pasadena-based church, which also has houses of worship in Corona and Irvine, is led by Pastors Che and Sue Ahn.

Harvest Rock's lawsuit, filed earlier this year, claimed that Newsoms order prohibiting indoor services violated church members' constitutional liberties.

It violates our 1st Amendment rights and you know the state should not establish a religion but also not interfere with the preemptive exercise thereof, Ahn told CBSN-Los Angeles earlier this year.

Harvest Rock is hardly the only church in California known to have defied the state and local public health orders. As of August, Community Grace Church in Sun Valley was continuing to hold Sunday services, and a judge that month blocked Los Angeles County's attempt to shut them down.

In July, the coronavirus spread through the Christian Life Center in Ontario, with fatal consequences. The church's leader, Bishop Abel Jimenez, and his two daughters died from COVID-19, and more than a dozen other family members tested positive as well.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
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The Duke and Duchess of Sussex today demanded an end to 'structural racism' in Britain.

In a wide-ranging interview from their 11million California mansion, Prince Harry revealed his 'awakening' to the discrimination faced by black people after meeting his wife.

Meanwhile, Meghan Markle praised Black Lives Matter protests in America after the death of George Floyd as 'beautiful' - but said this only applied to 'peaceful protest' and admitted many people found them 'inflammatory'.

Speaking on Zoom to the Evening Standard, Harry also weighed in on Diversity's controversial BLM dance routine on Britain's Got Talent and said he was 'surprised' by the negative comments it had received.

In a separate article for the newspaper, the couple said: 'As long as structural racism exists, there will be generations of young people of colour who do not start their lives with the same equality of opportunity as their white peers. And for as long as that continues, untapped potential will never get to be realised.'

The interview is the latest in a long series of political comments by the couple, including last week when Harry intervened in the US election by urging voters to 'reject hate speech'.

The comments - which broke royal protocol - were widely interpreted as a call to vote out Donald Trump. They prompted Buckingham Palace to immediately distance themselves from Harry by noting he was 'not working member of the Royal Family'.

Scroll down for a full transcript.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex called for an end to structural racism in Britain in an interview today with the Evening Standard

The couple gave today's interview to the Evening Standard over Zoom from their new mansion in Santa Barbara, California. In key developments -

Prince Harry said he had gone through an 'awakening' over racial issues after marrying Meghan Markle;

He said London 'doesn't feel as diverse as it actually is' for BAME people despite being celebrated as a bastion of multiculturalism;

Prince also defended dance troupe Diversity for their BLM-inspired dance and said he was 'surprised' by a wave of complaints to Ofcom;

He said Zoom had allowed him 'as much as humanely possible' to stay in touch with organisations he supported in the UK;

Meghan praised 'beautiful' Black Lives Matter protests in the US and said they were of 'historical significance';

Said life was 'so good' after moving to California and she was enjoying watching baby Archie grow up.

At a glance: Harry and Meghan on racism, Black Lives Matter and Diversity's controversial dance routine Harry - On racism: 'Because I wasn't aware of so many of the issues and so many of the problems within the UK and also globally as well. I thought I did but I didn't.' 'You know, when you go in to a shop with your children and you only see white dolls, do you even think: 'That's weird, there is not a black doll there?' And I use that as just one example of where we as white people don't always have the awareness of what it must be like for someone else of a different coloured skin, of a black skin, to be in the same situation as we are where the world that we know has been created by white people for white people.' 'It is not about pointing the finger, it is not about blame. I will be the first person to say, again, this is about learning. And about how we can make it better. I think it is a really exciting time in British culture and British history, and in world culture. This is a real moment that we should be grasping and actually celebrating. Because no one else has managed to do this before us.' On Diversity's BLM dance routine: 'We spoke to Ashley Banjo a few weeks ago, straight after the Britain's Got Talent situation. And that in itself, I am sure even me talking about it will be controversial, but the reality of it is he and his team of guys put on the most amazing display. 'We had such a good chat with Ashley. He was really strong, he felt great about it, but at the same time he was concerned because of the reaction. It was a real surprise that there was what? 1,100 complaints after the show and then three days of hype it became 20 or 25,000. I am very glad Ofcom made the decision that they did but that in itself kind of proves how much this conversation needs to continue.' On London: Harry said that even in London 'celebrated as one of the most diverse cities in the world, if you actually get out on to the streets and talk to people, it doesn't feel as diverse as it actually is. 'Therefore, now is the best time for us to be able to use our platform and you use your platform as well so we can actually start a conversation and introduce people to the black community that are making a massive difference within their own communities and across the UK as a whole as well.' On being away from the UK: 'Everything has been through video, everything has been in a room, somewhere. Actually it doesn't matter where in the world we have been, we have stayed in touch with and supported the organisations as much as humanly possible.' Meghan On BLM protests: '... when there is just peaceful protest and when there is the intention of just wanting community and just wanting the recognition of equality, then that is a beautiful thing. While it has been challenging for a lot of people certainly having to make this reckoning of historical significance that has got people to the place that they are, that is uncomfortable for people. We recognise that. It is uncomfortable for us.' On life in America: 'We are doing well. [Archie] is so good. We are very lucky with our little one. He is just so busy, he is all over the place. He keeps us on our toes. We are just so lucky. 'Everyone has been accustomed to what it means to be distanced. The impact of that, whether it is across the Pond or across town, you are still for the most part through a computer screen. We have all had to adapt to how we can have the most impact as possible within the constraints of what has happening with Covid-19. Like all of you, we are doing the best that we can and hoping that our passion and our commitment is still felt as it certainly hasn't wavered.' On nominating her BHM NextGen Trailblazers: 'An incredible example is Baroness Lawrence. Everything she has done in memory of her son [Stephen] is creating legacy across the UK in what it means to really push for the change that is necessary.' Their joint plea to tackle structural racism: 'For as long as structural racism exists, there will be generations of young people of colour who do not start their lives with the same equality of opportunity as their white peers. And for as long as that continues, untapped potential will never get to be realised.' Advertisement

The couple's interview comes at a key moment for race issues around the world after the killing of unarmed black man George Floyd by a US policeman sparked a wave of protest.

During the unrest this summer there were scenes of violence, arson and looting, and a number of businesses were targeted.

Asked for her views on the BLM protests, Meghan admitted they had been 'inflammatory for a lot of people'.

She continued: 'But when there is just peaceful protest and when there is the intention of just wanting community and just wanting the recognition of equality, then that is a beautiful thing.

'While it has been challenging for a lot of people certainly having to make this reckoning of historical significance that has got people to the place that they are, that is uncomfortable for people. We recognise that. It is uncomfortable for us.

'And I think when everyone just starts to own that, we push through that and focus on how do we make it different moving forward? And if we just focus on the uplift and the positivity of that, while still acknowledging the past, that's where we reshape things, and that shouldn't be inflammatory at all. That should be really exciting actually.'

Meghan said that BLM in the US was a 'different movement' from the one that existed in the UK.

Harry, 36, who at one point was joined on camera by the couple's Beagle, Guy, said he had become more aware of the issue of racism after marrying Meghan, 39.

He said: 'Because I wasn't aware of so many of the issues and so many of the problems within the UK and also globally as well. I thought I did but I didn't.'

'You know, when you go in to a shop with your children and you only see white dolls, do you even think: 'That's weird, there is not a black doll there?'

'And I use that as just one example of where we as white people don't always have the awareness of what it must be like for someone else of a different coloured skin, of a black skin, to be in the same situation as we are where the world that we know has been created by white people for white people.'

'It is not about pointing the finger, it is not about blame. I will be the first person to say, again, this is about learning.

'And about how we can make it better. I think it is a really exciting time in British culture and British history, and in world culture. This is a real moment that we should be grasping and actually celebrating. Because no one else has managed to do this before us.'

The Prince weighed in on the issue of the Diversity dance troupe's BLM inspired dance on Britain's Got Talent, which sparked 24,500 complaints to Ofcom.

'We spoke to Ashley Banjo a few weeks ago, straight after the Britain's Got Talent situation,' Harry said.

'And that in itself, I am sure even me talking about it will be controversial, but the reality of it is he and his team of guys put on the most amazing display.

'We had such a good chat with Ashley. He was really strong, he felt great about it, but at the same time he was concerned because of the reaction. It was a real surprise that there was what? 1,100 complaints after the show and then three days of hype it became 20 or 25,000. I am very glad Ofcom made the decision that they did but that in itself kind of proves how much this conversation needs to continue.'

Meanwhile, Harry spoke of how he had become more aware of issues of racial discrimination in society and questioned how far Britain had progressed.

The prince said they although London was celebrated as one of world's most diverse cities, 'If you actually get out on to the streets and talk to people, it doesn't feel as diverse as it actually is.

'Therefore, now is the best time for us to be able to use our platform and you use your platform as well so we can actually start a conversation and introduce people to the black community that are making a massive difference within their own communities and across the UK as a whole as well.'

The couple recently moved into a 11million mansion in Santa Barbara after breaking with the Royal Family and leaving the UK.

Meghan said the couple were 'doing well' and enjoying life with their baby, Archie.

She said: 'We are very lucky with our little one. He is just so busy, he is all over the place.

'He keeps us on our toes. We are just so lucky.

'Everyone has been accustomed to what it means to be distanced. The impact of that, whether it is across the Pond or across town, you are still for the most part through a computer screen.

'We have all had to adapt to how we can have the most impact as possible within the constraints of what has happening with Covid-19.

'Like all of you, we are doing the best that we can and hoping that our passion and our commitment is still felt as it certainly hasn't wavered.'

Harry said he was coping with being away from Britain by using Zoom to stay in touch with people at home.

'Everything has been through video, everything has been in a room, somewhere,' he said. 'Actually it doesn't matter where in the world we have been, we have stayed in touch with and supported the organisations as much as humanly possible.'

Speaking in a Zoom interview with the Evening Standard from their new 11million home in Santa Barbara, California, the couple said they were 'doing well' after leaving the UK

The couple have been repeatedly criticised for breaking royal protocol by intervening in politics - including by apparently telling Americans how to vote

Ashley Banjo in Diversity's Black Lives Matter themed dance routine that sparked thousands of complaints to Ofcom

Prince Harry defends Diversity's 'amazing' BLM-inspired BGT routine and says thousands of complaints to Ofcom were a 'real surprise' Prince Harry today praised Diversity's 'amazing' Black Lives Matter-inspired dance routine on Britain's Got Talent as he called for an end to 'structural racism' in Britain. In a wide-ranging interview from the Sussexes' 11million California mansion, Prince Harry said he was 'surprised' by the thousands of complaints made to Ofcom after the controversial performance. Speaking to the Evening Standard, Harry revealed he spoke to Diversity's leader Ashley Banjo after the troupe's routine sparked a massive backlash. He said: 'We spoke to Ashley Banjo a few weeks ago, straight after the Britain's Got Talent situation. And that in itself, I am sure even me talking about it will be controversial, but the reality of it is he and his team of guys put on the most amazing display. 'We had such a good chat with Ashley. He was really strong, he felt great about it, but at the same time he was concerned because of the reaction. It was a real surprise that there was what? '1,100 complaints after the show and then three days of hype it became 20 or 25,000. I am very glad Ofcom made the decision that they did but that in itself kind of proves how much this conversation needs to continue.' Ofcom said it would not take action against Diversity as it argued that the troupe's performance 'referred to challenging and potentially controversial subjects, and in our view, its central message was a call for social cohesion and unity'. Advertisement

Harry said he and Meghan hoped to use their high public profile to continue discussing racial discrimination.

He said: 'Now is the best time for us to be able to use our platform, joint with your platform as well, so that we can actually start a conversation and introduce people to the black community that are making a massive difference within their own communities but across the UK as a whole as well.

'So I think it's a month of celebration, and of course with a lot of other things going on in the UK and America and around the world at the moment, there can be parallels of connections to that, but essentially for us this is very much a celebration of Black History Month.'

To coincide with the interview the couple revealed their list of nominations for Black History Month's Next Generation Trailblazers, who were selected for challenging prejudice and contributing to British society.

Those nominated by the couple included Vogue editor Edward Enninful, Olympian boxer Nicola Adams, England rugby star Maro Itoje, the Met's Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu and Doreen Lawrence, mother of the murdered teenager Stephen Lawrence.

Discussing their nominations, Harry said: 'These are people that we know. People that we've interacted with over the years, people that have been mentioned to us by other people.

'Look, you know, this job has a certain uniqueness about it where we travel around the world, but we also visit all the communities, not all, but many communities within the UK, and the same names keep coming up.

'And we've been really just impressed, humbled and inspired at the same time by these individuals, whether it's Doreen Lawrence, or whether it's, you know, Neil Basu - these are people that are really, that are genuinely making a difference.'

Ending the interview, Meghan vowed that the couple would continue making their opinions known on issues that matter to them.

She said: 'You know, like all of you, we're doing the best that we can and hoping that our passion and our commitment is still felt, because it certainly hasn't wavered.'

At one point in the interview, the couple's Beagle, Guy, walked in on the interview, prompting Meghan to apologise.

The couple were interviewed by Evening Standard editor Emily Sheffield, and reporters Abbianca Makoni and Lizzie Edmonds

Meghan and Prince Harry's new home sits on 5.4 acres of land and immaculately clipped hedges border the estate's stone-pillared entry gates (pictured)

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have spoken out about the upcoming U.S. election, in a stark break with British tradition that prohibits royal involvement in politics

Black Lives Matter protests: How the death of George Floyd sparked a worldwide movement The death of George Floyd in May after a Minneapolis police officer knelt on his neck sparked a wave of Black Lives Matter-inspired protests in America and across the world. The video of Floyd - who was being arrested for allegedly using a counterfeit note - immediately went viral and his cry of 'I can't breathe' as he lay dying was adopted as a slogan of the movement. While the majority of protests have been peaceful, many have descended into violence and featured looting, rioting and at least 19 deaths. Activists have also sparked criticism for heir calls to strip police departments of their funding. The BLM cause was picked up across the world, sparking demonstrations in dozens of countries across Europe, Asia and Africa as well as Australia and New Zealand. In Britain, protesters have been criticised for defacing monuments, including the statue of Winston Churchill outside Parliament, which had to be boarded up. In one notable moment, BLM activists in Bristol tore down a statue of the slave trader Edward Colston and tossed it into the harbour. Asked on her thoughts of the BLM movement, Meghan said: 'The impetus is from a place of recognising equality and if you just go back to its ground level, I don't think there's anything controversial about it. 'What has been inflammatory for a lot of people is when any version of the community becomes disruptive. But when it's just peaceful protest and when there's the intention of just wanting unity and wanting recognition of equality, then that's a beautiful thing.' Advertisement

Today's interview was the latest in a series of political interventions by the Sussexes that have sparked significant controversy.

Last week, they were accused of 'over-stepping the line' after a thinly-veiled swipe at Donald Trump as they urged Americans to get out and vote in the upcoming election.

In the couple's most high-profile intervention in the US presidential election, Harry urged voters to 'reject hate speech, misinformation and online negativity'  all qualities critics associate with Mr Trump.

In a TV appearance to mark Time magazine's 100 most influential people roll call, Meghan  who has made no secret of her antipathy towards the president  described November's vote as the most important election of her lifetime.

Meanwhile, Harry complained that he had never been able to exercise his democratic right to vote because of the convention that, as a member of the British Royal Family, he should remain politically neutral.

Royal insiders voiced concern in Britain where the Queen and her family are expected to remain politically neutral at all times, with one saying that Harry and Meghan had 'crossed a line'.

Buckingham Palace also distanced itself from Harry's remarks by saying that 'the Duke is not a working member of the royal family' and describing his comments as 'made in a personal capacity'.

Harry and Meghan made their comments in a Time 100 video to go with the publication of this year's list of the most influential people, which does not include the royal couple.

'As we approach this November, it's vital that we reject hate speech, misinformation and online negativity,' said Harry.

This was a line some observers in Britain and the U.S. immediately took many be a plug for Joe Biden and a slap at President Trump.

'We're six weeks out from the election, and today is Voter Registration Day,' Meghan said.

'Every four years, we're told the same thing, 'This is the most important election of our lifetime.

'But this one is.

A protester holds a sign saying 'defund the police' at a protest backing Black Lives Matter in New York. Meghan said she thought peaceful protests were 'beautiful' but said she accepted some people found them 'inflammatory'
The Athabasca Tribal Council (ATC) will be receiving more than $1.3 million in COVID-19 management funding from the federal government.

In an announcement on Monday, Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) shared 32 Indigenous organizations who will receive funding through the Indigenous Community Support Funds off-reserve and urban stream.

Karla Buffalo, CEO for ATC, said the organization is working on a plan for the funding.

We will be reviewing grant guidelines in collaboration with communities to ensure that the plans we roll out meet those obligations as well as meet the needs of communities for off-reserve members, said Buffalo in an interview.

According to the ISCs website, this stream of the Indigenous Community Support Fund could include aid in food security, mental health support services, homelessness, support for elders and childcare assistance for essential workers.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, weve seen incredible action taken by organization supporting First Nation People living off reserve and Indigenous Peoples in urban areas, said Jim Carr, MP for Winnipeg South Centre, in a Monday release.

I am humbled by your work and thankful for all that you do.

Approximately $11.8 million in funding will be given to Indigenous organizations across the province to provide for off-reserve members.

Throughout the pandemic, ATC has been working closely with all of the regional rural communities to monitor COVID-19 management, said Buffalo.

In weekly meetings, communities will share information, resources, and update each other on community strategies unique to each First Nation.

Community-specific strategies have included procedures for anyone that has tested positive for COVID-19, ensuring support within the communities for individuals and families as well as increased security within the community to limit traffic.

Ive been really proud of the leadership we have within the region because theyve all taken it very seriously, said Buffalo.

Buffalo said Dr. Deena Hinshaw and Alberta Health Services have given First Nations in Wood Buffalo positive feedback for their COVID-19 response.

Theyre really maintaining low numbers within their communities, said Buffalo. I think it speaks volumes to their leadership and their ability to be responsive to the changing environment we have to react to every day.

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A strong, black coffee to wake you up after a bad night's sleep could impair control of blood sugar levels, according to a new study.

Research from the Centre for Nutrition, Exercise & Metabolism at the University of Bath (UK) looked at the effect of broken sleep and morning coffee across a range of different metabolic markers.

Writing in the British Journal of Nutrition the scientists show that whilst one night of poor sleep has limited impact on our metabolism, drinking coffee as a way to perk you up from a slumber can have a negative effect on blood glucose (sugar) control.

Given the importance of keeping our blood sugar levels within a safe range to reduce the risk of conditions such as diabetes and heart disease, they say these results could have 'far-reaching' health implications especially considering the global popularity of coffee.

For their study, the physiologists at the University of Bath asked 29 healthy men and women to undergo three different overnight experiments in a random order:

In one, condition participants had a normal night's sleep and were asked to consume a sugary drink on waking in the morning.

On another occasion, participants experienced a disrupted night's sleep (where the researchers woke them every hour for five minutes) and then upon waking were given the same sugary drink.

On another, participants experienced the same sleep disruption (i.e. being woken throughout the night) but this time were first given a strong black coffee 30 minutes before consuming the sugary drink.

In each of these tests, blood samples from participants were taken following the glucose drink which in energy content (calories) mirrored what might typically be consumed for breakfast.

Their findings highlight that one night of disrupted sleep did not worsen participants' blood glucose / insulin responses at breakfast, when compared to a normal night's sleep. Past research suggests that losing many hours of sleep over one and/or multiple nights can have negative metabolic effects, so it is reassuring to learn that a single night of fragmented sleep (e.g. due to insomnia, noise disturbance or a new baby) does not have the same effect.

However, strong black coffee consumed before breakfast substantially increased the blood glucose response to breakfast by around 50%. Although population-level surveys indicate that coffee may be linked to good health, past research has previously demonstrated that caffeine has the potential to cause insulin resistance. This new study therefore reveals that the common remedy of drinking coffee after a bad night's sleep may solve the problem of feeling sleepy but could create another by limiting your body's ability to tolerate the sugar in your breakfast.

Professor James Betts, Co-Director of the Centre for Nutrition, Exercise and Metabolism at the University of Bath who oversaw the work, explains: "We know that nearly half of us will wake in the morning and, before doing anything else, drink coffee - intuitively the more tired we feel, the stronger the coffee. This study is important and has far-reaching health implications as up until now we have had limited knowledge about what this is doing to our bodies, in particular for our metabolic and blood sugar control.

"Put simply, our blood sugar control is impaired when the first thing our bodies come into contact with is coffee especially after a night of disrupted sleep. We might improve this by eating first and then drinking coffee later if we feel we still feel the need it. Knowing this can have important health benefits for us all."

Lead researcher, Harry Smith from the Department for Health at Bath added: "These results show that one night of disrupted sleep alone did not worsen participants' blood glucose/insulin response to the sugary drink compared to a normal night of sleep which will be reassuring to many of us. However, starting a day after a poor night's sleep with a strong coffee did have a negative effect on glucose metabolism by around 50%.

"As such, individuals should try to balance the potential stimulating benefits of caffeinated coffee in the morning with the potential for higher blood glucose levels and it may be better to consume coffee following breakfast rather than before.

"There is a lot more we need to learn about the effects of sleep on our metabolism, such as how much sleep disruption is necessary to impair our metabolism and what some of the longer-term implications of this are, as well as how exercise, for instance, could help to counter some of this."

This week marks International Coffee Day (1 October) in celebration of the widespread appeal of coffee around the world. Coffee is now the world's most popular drink, with around two billion cups consumed every day. In the US about half of the people in the United States aged 18 and over drink coffee every day, whilst in the UK, according to the British Coffee Association, 80% of households buy instant coffee for in-home consumption.
Mumbai, Oct 1 : The fiery but unpredictable Parth Pawar - grand-nephew of Nationalist Congress Party supremo Sharad Pawar - on Thursday without warning stirred up Maharashtra politics by giving a 'wake-up' call to the Maratha community to fight for their rights.

Known to have an independent mind, Parth, who is the 30-year-old son of state Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, called upon the agitated and agitating Marathas to ensure they get justice by way of reservations.

Raking up the issue of a Maratha boy, Vivek K. Rahade - who allegedly died by suicide demanding quotas for the community in jobs and eduation - Parth warned: "The flame that Vivek has ignited in our minds can set the whole system ablaze." Stating he was 'devastated' to hear of Vivek's death, Parth added before "a chain reaction of such unfortunate incidents starts, Maratha leaders have to wake up and fight for this cause".

"The future of an entire generation is at stake. Requesting Maharashtra government to step in to solve the crisis," Parth urged, and announced his intention to move the Supreme Court by filing an intervenor application in the pending Maratha reservations matter cases.

"I am ready to carry the burning torch of Maratha agitation in my heart and knock the doors of justice for Vivek and millions of other helpless 'Viveks'. Jai Hind, Jai Maharashtra," assured Parth to the Maratha youth.

In a suicide note, Beed student Vivek Rahade said that he had appeared for the NEET exams to pursue the medical stream, but since the Maratha quotas were recently stayed and as his family could ill-afford education in private medical colleges, he was "ending his life".

He further said that after his death, the Centre and state government may take note of the plight of Maratha youth and his sacrifice would be worthwhile. Marathas account for nearly 33 per cent of the state's population of 11.50 crore.

NCP state President Jayant Patil, NCP MP Supriya Sule, Congress Minister Amit Deshmukh sought to downplay Parth's comments saying he was entitled to express his opinion which was in tune with the stand of the state government also.

Parth's sympathy for the Maratha boy came at a time when the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) allies Shiv Sena-Nationalist Congress Party-Congress along with opposition Bharatiya Janata Party have moved the apex court to get the stay on Maratha reservations vacated after it was referred to a larger bench on September 9.

This is not the first time that Parth has created ripples in state politics with his comments or stand on certain issues.

In August, he shocked the MVA and the Pawar clan by seeking a CBI probe into the death of actor Sushant Singh Rajput and also hailed the foundation stone laying ceremony for the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

It invited a public snub from Pawar senior who dismissed him as "immature" and the party did not give much importance to his statements.
Abu Dhabi, Oct 2 : Mumbai Indians (MI) were pushed beyond the 190-run mark against Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) on Thursday at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium thanks to a late blitz from Kieron Pollard and Hardik Pandya. The pair smashed 44 runs in the last two overs and put up 67 runs in just 23 balls for the fifth wicket to take MI from being 147/4 at the start of the 19th over to 191/4 at the end of the 20th.

It helped MI cruise to a 48-run win over KXIP.

"We didn't start really well, but we always knew with the kind of attack Punjab had we wanted to capitalise. Those two guys they back themselves to get the runs, it's nice to have them in form as well," said MI captain Rohit Sharma in the post-match presentation ceremony.

MI were also buoyed by a clinical performance from their bowlers with every player who bowled taking a wicket on Thursday for the four-time IPL champions. "It wasn't going to be easy with the ball against KXIP's batting line-up. We knew we had to get early wickets and everything went to plan, credit to the bowlers," he said. Rohit also said that he and fast bowlers James Pattinson and Trent Boult understand each other better.

"They have now got an idea of what I need from them and I have got to know them better too," he said.

Pollard, who was declared player of the match, said it was good to see Pandya among the runs. Pandya is coming back to the sport after an absence of nearly a year due to a back injury.

"It's about what's there in front of you. Look at the bowlers and see how many you want to get, 15 off the over and then you try to go hard. Today, Hardik had to come and swing and he showed his prowess. We know sky is the limit in the last 4 overs," he said.

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-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Deceased

01.10.2020 LISTEN

A level 200 student of the University of Ghana, Legon, Abdul Hafiz has been stabbed to death at Atuahene in the Bono Region by an unknown assailant.

The deceased who resides with the family at Ntotroso in Ahafo Region aged 23 and reads BA in Business Administration met his death at a levers jam event organized for the just-ended Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidates.

In an interview with the deceased father, Hussein Aremyaw, on the 25th September 2020, his son and friends attended the said event where confrontation emerged where knives were pulled by persons believed to be natives of Atuahene community.

He said, according to sources, the deceased who was not part of the fight and was standing with his back facing the direction of the unknown murderer was attacked with a knife when the person the knife was directed to swerved.

He explained that because the incident happened at dawn on 26th September, his friends found it extremely difficult getting a vehicle to convey him to any health facility leaving the victim to bleed profusely.

According to the father, his friends managed to get a tricycle popularly called 'aboboyaa' and rushed the deceased to the Gyedu Health Centre but per the nature of the case the health experts advised them to take him to the Banhart Hospital in Kenyasi No.1.

The father said, doctors at the hospital pronounced him dead on arrival and advised them to send the body back to the family and report as well to the police since it is a murder case.

He expressed that after the family has reported it to the Ntotroso Police, it assisted them to forward the case to the Atronie Police Station in the Sunyani Municipality where Atuahene community falls.

He narrated that the body which was deposited at the Sunyani Hospital morgue for autopsy has been released to the family for burial at Ntotroso according to Muslim customs whiles the police continue with investigation to apprehend the suspect.

He appealed to the police to expedite their investigation for justice to be served the family of the deceased who happened to be his only male child and the first born as well.

Meanwhile, the police have confirmed that some suspected persons have to been arrested to assist investigations but for security reasons, their names have been withheld.

The Police have visited the Paramount Chief of Ntotroso Traditional Council, Berima Twereko Ampem and appealed to him to calm down the youth who have already stormed the Atuahene township and vandalized some areas after the incident and also vowed to attack people as well.

The police say the youth must have trust in them to bring the perpetrators to book.
Bono Regional Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwame Baffoe a.k.a Abronye DC has urged all political parties to de-politicize the issue of the Western Togoland secessionism.



According to him, the President of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo will not do anything to inflame political sentiments, therefore the parties should have a balanced approach towards the issue.



Speaking on UTVs Adekye Nsroma Abronye DC stated that; in Ghana, there is no law that will force a President to deprive some Region of their part of the national cake because it voted against that government. So if the NDC says we are reluctant because its not our stronghold then President Nana Addo wouldnt have sent some of his developmental projects to the Volta Region".



If President Akufo-Addo thinks Volta is less important, they wouldnt have benefited from the free SHS policyIt should have been started from Ashanti Region because that is our stronghold...When did this issue arise in the country?the issue that NPP has relaxed in addressing the matter because it's not our stronghold doesnt come in. Nobody can say Volta Region is not part or has not contributed to the development of Ghana''.





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.

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By Ellen Francis and Rami Ayyub

BEIRUT/TEL AVIV (Reuters) - Lebanon and Israel have agreed to a framework for U.S.-mediated talks aimed at ending a long-running dispute along the border between the two nations that have fought several conflicts.

Still in a formal state of war, Lebanon and Israel have contested their land and maritime borders for decades, namely over an area in the sea on the edge of three Lebanese offshore energy blocks. Israel said the talks would cover the sea border.

Washington has mediated between the two sides.

"This is a framework agreement, not a final one," Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri told reporters, less than a month after the United States imposed sanctions on his top aide for corruption and financially enabling Hezbollah, the Iran-backed Lebanese group which Washington deems a terrorist organisation.

The heavily armed Hezbollah and Israel, sworn enemies, last fought a war in 2006.

The announcement comes with Lebanon facing its worst crisis since its 1975-1990 civil war. The country's financial meltdown was compounded by a massive port explosion that wrecked a swathe of Beirut in August, killing nearly 200 people.

Israeli Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz confirmed the two sides would hold U.S.-brokered talks on the maritime border, a major point of contention.

The U.S. State Department welcomed the agreement and said it had taken three years of diplomacy to achieve.

Talks will begin in the week of Oct. 12, David Schenker, Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, told reporters in a telephone briefing, adding that he will represent the United States in the negotiations.

It follows deals signed last month, brokered by Washington, between Israel and two Gulf Arab states to normalise relations.

SANCTIONS

Berri, a Hezbollah ally and influential Shi'ite leader in charge of the border file, said talks would be held under the auspices of the United Nations at a U.N. base in Naqoura near the boundary with Israel, known as the Blue Line.

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He told a news conference in Beirut that Washington would push for agreement as soon as possible.

Berri mentioned the land and maritime border at the news conference, while Israel and the United States only mentioned the maritime boundary. One reason previous efforts to launch talks floundered was the two sides disagreeing over which frontier to discuss, analysts say.

A Lebanese official source suggested Berri was prompted to make the announcement now because of the economic crisis and U.S. sanctions imposed last month on his right-hand man, Ali Hassan Khalil. A Western diplomat echoed this.

Berri denied being swayed. "I, Berri, cannot be softened by force," he told reporters.

Speaking after the agreement was announced, Schenker, the State Department official, said the United States will continue to impose sanctions on Lebanese individuals allied with Hezbollah or engaged in corruption, adding that further sanctions remained in play.

In 2018, Beirut licensed a group of Italy's Eni, France's Total and Russia's Novatek to carry out Lebanon's first offshore energy exploration in two blocks. One of them, Block 9, contains waters disputed with Israel.

Berri said he had asked French President Emmanuel Macron, who has been at the centre of foreign efforts to help Lebanon out of crisis, to press Total not to delay exploration for gas in the offshore area.

As well as the maritime border row, the two countries disagree over a border wall Israel started building in 2018. A U.N. peacekeeping force monitors the boundary since Israel's military withdrawal from south Lebanon in 2000, ending a 22-year occupation.

(Reporting by Ellen Francis, Samia Nakhoul and Laila Bassam in Beirut; Rami Ayyub in Tel Aviv and Ari Rabinovitch in Jerusalem; Additional reporting by John Irish in Paris and Matt Spetalnick in Washington; Writing by Edmund Blair; Editing by Mark Heinrich and Kirsten Donovan)
This Person Does Not Exist (thispersondoesnotexist.com) is a website that lets you generate a random-yet-realistic looking face through artificial intelligence.

The website works in a simple manner. All you have to do is press the refresh button, and the website will render an overly-realistic, lifelike portrait of people who 'do not exist.'

Humans are not the only creatures featured on this website. You can also create hyper-realistic cats (This Cat Does Not Exist), horses (This Horse Does Not Exist), and even artwork (This Artwork Does Not Exist).

Phillip Wang, a former software engineer at Uber, is the man behind this human image synthesis website.

How Does This Person Does Not Exist Work?

This Person Does Not Exist works under an algorithm called generative adversarial network (GAN).

Nvidia initially coded StyleGAN back in 2018 and made it available for the public in early 2019.

This GAN has gone through millions of trial-and-errors to create the best image possible. Put it like this: the generator learns from thousands and millions of real-life portraits, understands their patterns, and recreates it.

This is not the only website that uses this technology. There's also a website called Judge Fake People that lets you rate the attractiveness of AI-generated faces like it's on dating app Tinder.

However, this wasn't the first time such technology gives a polite introduction to how dangerous our discoveries could be.

In 1971, French computer scientist Henri Gouraud modeled his wife to make the first-ever computer graphic geo-capture. That's why 3D artists name Gouraud shading, a basic solid modeling technique, after the man.

Has Tech Gone Too Far?

This Person Does Not Exist indeed raises a big concern: what if the technology we design will come back to haunt us?

In the longer term, no one could ever guarantee this technology to be free from abusers. In this era, misinformation and hoaxes are never more accessible than before.

Unfortunately, this technology indeed could play a massive part in spreading hoaxes.

This year, China has reportedly set a new policy requiring hyper-realistic AI-generated portraits to bear a clear notice or a disclosure. Failure in meeting the requirement is a cybercrime, according to the Cyberspace Administration of China.

"With the adoption of new technologies, such as deepfake, in online video and audio industries, there have been risks in using such content to disrupt social order," CAC representative told South China Morning Post.

Wang created this site to remind people about what could be a rude awakening. Since its release, more than 4.2 million people have visited the website.

"The reaction speaks to how much people are in the dark about A.I. and its potential," he said.

"I just hope my demonstration raises awareness. Those who are unaware are most vulnerable to this technology."

Read also:

Cyberpunk 2077: An Insider Leaks An Email About the Company's Grueling Crunch Culture

Self-Charging Battery that can Surprisingly Last for up to 28,000 Years can be Coming Soon.

Samsung One UI 2.5: Surprisingly Better User Experience and Convenience
TROY, MI  A Troy-based auto group is teaming up with a local community food bank to help feed Southeast Michigan residents during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Suburban Collection in Troy has announced the launch of "Drive Away Hunger," a fundraising campaign aiming to raise 1 million meals for Gleaners Community Food Bank by the end of 2020.

For decades Gleaners has been an unwavering lifeline for those facing hunger and continues to rise to the occasion now, when they are needed more than ever, The Suburban Collection President and CEO David Fischer Jr. said. Across The Suburban Collection, our team members are enthusiastic and determined to meet the one million meal goal in support of Gleaners work for our community.

RELATED: Millions Made Hungry During Pandemic Could Include Your Neighbor



Prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, 1 in 5 people in Southeast Michigan struggled with hunger, according to a news release. Now, Feeding America, representing a nationwide network of more than 200 food banks, predicts an additional 212,000 people will be at risk of hunger in the region. Hunger among children is projected to rise to nearly 24 percent.



The goal of the partnership between The Suburban Collection and Gleaners is to help combat those issues in southeast Michigan.

The Suburban Collections leadership and 3,000 team members across its Southeast Michigan locations will cooperate toward the million-meal goal through such activities as Jeans Days, where employees can make a donation in exchange for a more casual Friday attire; raffles for employee perks; and location-specific fundraising initiatives.

Customers and the community are encouraged to participate by donating in-store or participating in The Suburban Collections virtual food drive through Gleaners here.

At the virtual food drive webpage, donors can make a financial contribution of their choice or they can shop with Gleaners. Through Gleaners Shop with Us Virtual Food Drive portal, donors can select food items forming their donation amount. Every dollar donated provides three meals.

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Families, children, seniors and our neighbors who are isolated are facing hardships at a level higher than weve ever seen in Gleaners history, Gleaners President and CEO Gerry Brisson said. One thing we can do together is make sure food is not one of their worries. Support to The Suburban Collections Drive Away Hunger campaign will help provide nourishing food to households deeply affected by the pandemic. When we come together to fight hungereveryone wins.

Headquartered in Detroit, Gleaners operates distribution centers in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Livingston and Monroe counties. The organization has drastically increased its food distribution by 40 percent since March 2020, averaging 6.5 million pounds each month, according to a news release.

Gleaners distributes nutritious foods  including fresh milk, vegetables, fruit, whole grains and lean protein  to more than 500 partner agencies, through drive-up food distribution sites across Southeast Michigan and in emergency food boxes through 120 community partners, among other programs.

As part of the Drive Away Hunger campaign, The Suburban Collection will allocate funds raised by its Ann Arbor locations to Food Gatherers, the local food bank serving Washtenaw County communities.

Patch has partnered with Feeding America to help raise awareness on behalf of the millions of Americans facing hunger. Feeding America, which supports 200 food banks across the country, estimates that in 2020, more than 54 million Americans will not have enough nutritious food to eat due to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. This is a Patch social good project; Feeding America receives 100 percent of donations. Find out how you can donate in your community or find a food pantry near you.







This article originally appeared on the Troy Patch
Doors open

Vagabond Saints

10 John St. N.

Following the summer closure of Toast Wine Bar, tattoo shop Vagabond Saints has taken over the historic unit on John Street North. The shop moved from its former location in International Village, and proffers tattoos from several artists (including Jessica The Apprentice, who is one of six tattoo artists at the shop). The shop also offers nail services, has Naloxone on hand, and its staff are trained in suicide prevention, according to its website.

Toast, which was in that location since 2016, closed at the end of June, selling its possessions in an odds and ends sale in early July.

Sushi on Fennell

669 Fennell Ave. E.

This takeout sushi joint opened in a plaza near Fennell and Upper Sherman avenues this spring. Its run by four sisters and two of their spouses, including Trieu Tran and Yao Xue of Huong Trang Fish Market in the Hamilton Farmers Market. Sushi on Fennell offers the standards plus adventurous extras such as sushi pockets: crispy tofu-based shells with fillings such as spicy salmon, barbecue eel and spicy avocado  sort of like a high-brow pizza pop. The shop also sells appetizing do-it-yourself seafood boil kits featuring lobster tails, Alaskan crab legs and scallops on the half shell.

Sushi on Fennell has been so busy since it opened that it sometimes has to turn away orders, according to apology posts on its Facebook page. Fortunately, keen customers can pre-order online days ahead to avoid disappointment.

Inderly

126 Catharine St. N.

Toronto IT firm Inderly opened its Hamilton office downstairs at the Seedworks building on Sept. 1. The company offers IT support for businesses on a software-as-a-service model, and was founded by Colin Pearce, who grew up in Hamilton. Pearce told The Spectator he returned home because hed always wanted to create jobs in his hometown and couldnt live without a proper submarine sandwich any longer. He moved here with his family to start the new office, while the Toronto shop remains open for employees based there. Our market research showed there were lots of businesses that could benefit from our services, he said, noting Inderly plans to target law and other professional service firms.

Medina, without the food

Medina Fine Foods

581 Concession St.

Medina Fine Foods  a longtime hub of Middle Eastern and South Asian food, as well as halal meat, baked goods and international produce  is no more. Or at least, the food part of it, anyway. The Concession Street stores signage was recently covered in liquidation sale banners. A visit revealed the store is no longer the glorious grocery hub of yore, but has morphed into a liquidation store selling items such as clothing, hand sanitizer and COVID masks. A store clerk confirmed the store was still Medina but no longer sells food.

****Correction: This article was updated Oct. 5 to correct the fact that tattoo shop Vagabond Saints had a location in the International Village in between its Barton and John locations. Also, the article previously stated that tattoos by Jessica the Apprentice were offered at a reduced rate. Since the publication of this article, the shops website now displays a rate similar to its other artists. She is one of six tattoo artists who work at the shop.
SOUTH DUNDAS  SD&G OPP have released more details on the September 21st drug bust on Rowena Road at Shaver Road.

OPP officers from the Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau, the Emergency Response Team, Canine Unit, Community Street Crime Unit, and the SD&G detachment, along with Canada Border Services and the Ottawa Police Service, executed a warrant at 11515 Rowena Road at about 9:30 a.m.

Officers seized over 1,700 Cannabis plants, and over 200 kilograms of processed Cannabis, along with growing and processing equipment.

Police did not release a value of the drugs seized at the scene.

Other police forces in Ontario value Cannabis plants at about $1,000 per plant, and $491 a pound for processed Cannabis. That methodology would value the Rowena Road bust at approximately $1.9 million.

Eleven people from the Greater Toronto Area, one person from Saskatchewan, and one person from New York City, were arrested at the scene and face charges relating to the bust.

Charged are: Jinbao Gao (65), Jin Yun Chen (42), Bijin Zhu (64), Jinchai Zhu (65), Zhenjia Chen (68), and Yihua Chi (64), all from Markham; Fei Lin (50), Wenfang Chen (51), and Yanying Lin (71), all from Scarborough; Yuran Yang (51) from Toronto; Zhujin Zheng (age unknown) from Maple; Youshun Lin (55) from Regina, Saskatchewan; and Zhifang Chen (64), of Brooklyn, New York.

All 13 people were charged with cultivating, propagating or harvesting more than four cannabis plants under Section 12(4)(b) of the federal Cannabis Act.

The accused were released and are scheduled to attend the Ontario Court of Justice in Morrisburg on December 1st.

The Rowena Road Cannabis bust is one of several that occurred in the past week.

On September 25th, Leeds County OPP conducted warrants at three different locations in Leeds County, netting 10,500 plants total. Nearly 6,500 plants were seized near Toledo, 2,500 plants just north of Athens, and 2,000 plants near Frankville. Prince Edward County OPP seized 1,600 plants near Picton, also on September 25th.

OPP East Region Media Relations Coordinator Bill Dickson said he could not confirm if the Rowena Road bust was related to any other Cannabis-related busts. He did say the investigation was continuing.

The Rowena Road farm, which had 30 temporary greenhouses comprising 12,000 square metres of growing space, has been cultivating the Cannabis crop since this spring.

The unnamed owner of the property received a building permit from the Municipality of South Dundas on May 11th according to documents received through a Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy request filed by The Leader. The documents did not release the property owners name or who the building permit was issued to. Both names were redacted.

The municipality issued the building permit early in the provinces reopening plan due to COVID-19, which had several restrictions on projects permitted.

We have received a revised definition of essential services which has permitted us to provide your building permit, said Andrew Turner, deputy chief building official for South Dundas.

South Dundas council asked municipal staff, at its September 8th council meeting, to work on drafting a bylaw to address the numerous Cannabis operations that are operating in South Dundas.

We have nothing to regulate what weve got, said mayor Steven Byvelds. Its time to figure something out.

With files from R. Comfort at The Leader.
The Audit Service has dismissed suggestions by the Minority in Parliament that the Services delay in submitting and publishing of reports of the Auditor-General for the 2019 financial year was an attempt to cover up corruption on the part of government.



According to the Service, the delay was as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdown directive by government in March.



The Minority, at a press conference on Monday accused the acting Auditor-General, Johnson Akuamoah Asiedu, of breaching the Constitution and the Audit Service Act which requires him to audit and submit to Parliament his reports on the Public Accounts of Ghana for the preceding year within six (6) after the end of the said preceding year .



But a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by the Assistant Director of Public Relations, Ama Awotwi-Bosumafi, explained that the delay was also as a result of some of its staff testing positive for the Coronavirus, resulting in the suspension of audit assignments.



The statement said, While we admit that the Office has not been able to submit all the Reports of the Auditor-General on the Public Accounts of Ghana for the 2019 financial year to Parliament as required by the relevant laws, we wish to state that this delay is not intentional or purposeful.



The delay is solely due to the outbreak of the novel corona virus 2019 (COVID-19) that disrupted government business and social life.



It explained further that as was the practice, audits of the accounts prepared by public institutions only started in earnest in the middle of March 2020.



Unfortunately, the Audit Service had to suspend all ongoing audits on 30th March 2020 in complying with the lockdown directives issued to all institutions on 28th March 2020 in line with section 169 of the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), it added.



The staff of the Audit Service resumed work at their respective locations when the lockdown was lifted, but some employees of the Service contracted covid-19 during the audits resulting in the suspension of audit assignments. Staff were then asked to work from home which culminated in further delays in the work due to technical and logistical challenges encountered by both auditors and clients.



These delays prevented the various audit teams from completing their audits on schedule to enable the Auditor-General (Mr. Daniel Y. Domelevo) to submit his reports on the public accounts of Ghana to Parliament before the statutory date of 30th June 2020, it said.



It therefore debunk accusations by the Minority in Parliament that the delays were "deliberate for the primary purpose of avoiding further embarrassment to the Government ...or intended to cover up malfeasance on the part of Government because this year is an election year".



It added that the delay could also not be attributed to the directive by the President to the Auditor-General to proceed on leave" as the Minority asserts.



According to the statement, on July 20, 2020, the acting Auditor-General, Mr Asiedu submitted the "Report of the Auditor-General on the Consolidated Statements of the Foreign Exchange Receipts and Payments of the Bank of Ghana for the year ended 3Ist December 2019".



It said Mr Asiedu subsequently informed the Speaker of Parliament that reports covering other accounts would delay because of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the audit activities of the Service.



It said most of those outstanding reports had since been sent out for printing for onward submission to Parliament.









Source: graphic.com.gh









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.

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The contract includes a commitment from the hospital to hire the equivalent of at least 160 full-time nurses, creating natural nurse-to-patient ratios that improve core staffing and quality of care, according to a union news release. The hospital also agreed to raises of 1% the first year, 1.5% the second year, 1.75% the third year, and 2% the fourth year of the contract, as well as the implementation of various safety and protective measures.
Rafal Smaszcz blasted BA for taking advantage of Covid to serve poor meals

Passengers say sandwiches bought off a budget airline trolley look much better

Stewart Cunningham is upset cabin crew are still preparing hot meals for pilots

British Airways passengers have been left fuming after forking out thousands of pounds for first and business class tickets, only to be served 'disappointing' sandwiches for their in-flight meals.

Disgruntled customers say the airline blamed new Covid-19 regulations for the 'embarrassing' snacks, which they believe are the result of 'cost cutting'.

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Among those to complain was Rafal Smaszcz, 42, who flew from London Heathrow to Frankfurt on a 520 flight on 18 September.

BA first and business class passengers complain they are being served 'greasy' sandwiches

Passengers say they've seen better meals served on budget airlines

Disgruntles Rafal Smaszcz (pictured) took to Twitter to question whether BA thought it was acceptable to serve a 'greasy sandwich in a crumpled brown bag' as a business class meal

He shared a photo of his 'greasy' sandwich served in a crumpled paper bag on Twitter, writing: 'We all know about Covid and certain restrictions, but if you charge for business class ticket same as before lockdown do you really think that this can be acceptable to serve as a business class meal?'

Speaking today, he added: 'I was in disbelief. Honestly, a sandwich bought on Ryanair flight off the trolley looks better.

'The brown bag was tatty and with oily stains and the sandwich looked like it was squashed.

'I understand that Coronavirus puts certain limitations on food operation but this is taking advantage yet charging standard business class prices.'

Stewart Cunningham from Aberdeen had a similar complaint after shelling out 420 for his London to Warsaw flight on Friday [25 Sep].

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He shared a similar photo of his 'below standard' chicken sandwich and complained to the airline.

Speaking today, the 35-year-old said: 'I thought it was quite frankly embarrassing for the crew to have to serve a sandwich which came in a brown bag covered in the grease.

'Their aim to protect passengers against COVID is laudable and their aircraft are much cleaner.

'However, when you see the cabin crew prepare hot meals for the pilots served on proper plates with proper cutlery, it does make you wonder why, if a full service is fine for flight crew, it isn't for paying passengers.'

The inflight meals have been blasted by passengers as being 'disgraceful'. Joe Schofield shared this image on Twitter and wrote that lunch served on BA business class flights was 'truly a thing to marvel at'

Tim Martz, whose First Class flight from Split, Croatia to Los Angeles cost in excess of 11,000 had to bring his own 'DIY' plate onboard (above)

Joe Schofield also shared images showing his meal during a business class flight on Sunday [27 Sep], claiming it consisted of: 'Two slices of white Kingsmill, decent wedge of pilgrims choice and some Branston pickle.'

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He shared the sad-looking sandwich and wrote on Twitter: 'The lunch served on the British Airways business class flights these days is truly a thing to marvel at.'

Meanwhile Tim Martz, whose First Class flight from Split, Croatia to Los Angeles costs in excess of 11,000, blasted the onboard food service as 'pathetic'.

He shared photos of the 'disgraceful' sandwich he was served on 19 September, along with another hot meal he was given for the final leg of the journey.

However, Tim, who had to bring his own 'DIY' plate onboard, said BA's offerings do not hold up to other airlines' first and business class menus.

He shared photos showing the inflight meal on a recent business class journey with Lufthansa, showing how it was served complete with crisp white tablecloth and silver cutlery.

The succulent steak on a bed of creamy mash and asparagus is a far cry from the boxed sandwich he received.

Speaking today, executive Tim said: 'A boxed meal is not very First Class let alone Business Class.

Meal served on a Lufthansa flight complete with crisp white tablecloth

BA's offering of a sandwich to its first and business class passengers

'And plastic utensils, paper napkins, plastic? Pathetic cheap champagne and even cheaper wine usually served in Business, even Economy.

'It's just an excuse to cut costs. What's worse is the BA lies and claims that the cuts are all due to Covid health restrictions. B*******. Most other airlines have not gone the disgraceful BA route.

'Lufthansa, Swiss and Air France continue to offer stellar inflight First Class service, meals, wine and drink.'

Passengers on short haul business class cabins are being be offered a pre-prepared meal, such as salad or sandwich with a selection of beverages

A spokesman for BA told Mailonline: 'We have introduced a temporary catering proposition. Customers travelling to a long haul destination will be offered pre-prepared meal boxes including dishes such as a salad, hot entree or sandwich, served with a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Snacks will also be available between meals.

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'Customers travelling to a short haul destination in our business class cabin, Club Europe, will also be offered a pre-prepared meal, such as salad or sandwich with a selection of beverages.

'Those customers travelling in our economy cabin, Euro Traveller, will be offered a complimentary snack and a bottle of water.

'As we navigate our way through these unprecedented times, we will continue to take advice from relevant authorities and incorporate this into the development of our on board experience.'
DANIEL THWAITES PLC

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The Annual General Meeting, which was a closed meeting due to the Governments restrictions around public gatherings, was held at 12 noon on Wednesday, 30 September 2020.

The results of the resolutions proposed at the meeting were as follows:

Resolution 1 - To re-elect Oscar Yerburgh as a director - 99.79% in favour

Resolution 2 - To re-appoint BDO as auditors and authorise the directors to determine their remuneration - 99.54% in favour

Resolution 3 - To renew the authority given to the directors to allot shares - 99.62% in favour

Resolution 4 - To disapply the pre-emption rights provision - 98.36% in favour

Resolution 5 - Authority for the Company to make market purchases of its own ordinary shares - 99.56% in favour

Questions:

A number of questions were submitted to the Company and these and the Company's responses are detailed below:

Q. The Company's AGM Statement and Covid-19 Update mentions the "tremendous support for our tenanted pubs". However, with the exception of April the Company has continued to charge full rents to tenants despite the pubs being closed and more recently trading at only a fraction of pre lockdown levels. This is in contrast to many other regional brewers. The Company's tenants do not feel they have been supported by the Company as you claim. Does the Company have any plans to write off any of these rents and what plans does the Company have to support tenants if there is a further lockdown?



A. We have sought to balance the interests of both the company and the tenanted pubs over the period since 1 April. In this, we have tried to be fair and reasonable on a case by case basis regarding tenanted pub rent, from full rent relief in some cases to assessing the level of government grant in others. This means that on average in the year to date rent concessions of approximately 50% have been in place. If needed the company stands ready to support its pubs over the winter period.

Q. Will the Board do all in its power to rebalance the debt on pension payments caused by this years pause within a fixed number of financial years and record commitment there to?

A. The company took a brief contribution holiday for three months whilst the effects of lockdown and the need to conserve cash became clearer. The sums saved will be paid back over time.

Q. Would you consider moving your share listing to a more closely followed index, such as AIM?

A. We have looked at moving the listing to AIM, but do not believe that the additional costs warrant such a move at this time.

Q. Can you please provide an update on your former brewery in Blackburn. What is your strategy for the site? Over what timeframe do you expect redevelopment to happen? Do you expect to redevelop it yourselves, partner with an experienced developer or sell it on as a shovel ready site once the planning permissions are in place?

A. The former brewery site in Blackburn has been demolished, we are now actively marketing the site for redevelopment by a third party.

Q. What steps can you take to further de-risk the defined benefit pension scheme?

A. We have looked at all options to de-risk the final salary scheme including investment strategy, buyout, Pension Increase Exchange and Enhanced Transfer Values, we review these options on an ongoing basis.

Q. Your term loan carries a high average fixed rate of 7.02% per annum and runs to December 2025. Could you refinance this at a more advantageous rate?

A. The directors have considered refinancing the fixed rate debt embedded in the Company's Capital Structure and do not believe that it is in the best interests of the shareholders to refinance this at this moment in time.
Romanian Crown Custodian, Margareta, says in a message sent to the participants in the national conference on good practices for a beautiful old age that "together we can give the elderly a dignified life, with less worries and hope for the future", according to Agerpres.

"The International Day for Older Persons brings together those who want to protect them, support them, highlight them. Older persons are much more vulnerable to COVID 19. Home isolation has made daily shopping difficult, same as the visit to the doctor or the benefit of some services. People could not meet their family or friends, and physical distancing has brought loneliness and hoplessness. Thank you for being by our side. Together we can offer the elderly a dignified life, with less worries and hope for the future," Her Majesty Margareta, Chair of the Royal Foundation named after her, said in the message posted on the Facebook page of the Royal Family of Romania.

Organised by the Margareta of Romania Royal Foundation, on the International Day for Older Persons, the fourth edition of the national conference on good practices for a beautiful old age is carried out online and is aimed at increasing the quality of life for older persons, by promoting some innovating and efficient ideas nationwide, in the elderly care area.

In the event, famous specialists share topical information and modern expertise to NGOs, public and private institutions, which the participants can implement in their communities, the foundation mentions.
SYDNEY, Australia, Sept. 30, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Everyone has that one friend who has all the inside scoop on the most amazing undiscovered restaurants. Now, with its arrival in Australia, food delivery app Chowbus makes you that friend. From the spicy noodles of Chong Qing Street Noodle, to the fragrant Pad Thai of Do Dee Paidang Thai Restaurant, Australias best authentic Asian dishes are just a tap away. Today Chowbus announced that its delivery services are now available in Melbourne, Sydney, and Canberra. The launch across Australia marks the companys first international launch outside of North America.



Australian residents can now order delivery through the Chowbus app from 300+ of the countrys top historic Chinatown and local restaurants in each city. The app is also constantly refreshed with more restaurant choices in real-time such as:

By Korea, ABC Chicken, Juicy Bao, and HappyLemon in Melbourne,

Do Dee Paidang Thai restaurant, Hot Star Large Fried Chicken, Great Dragon Hot Pot, and Red Chilli Sichuan Restaurant in Sydney,

And Yangguofu Malatang, Chong Qing Street Noodle, Tak Kee Roast Inn, and Superemoji in Canberra.



Chowbus hand-picks restaurants, working with the owners to select only their best dishes, so users know theyre enjoying only the most authentic and mouth-watering foods. And for those who want to experience multiple flavors in one meal, Chowbus offers a distinctive bundling feature that lets users order from multiple restaurants in a single delivery. Additionally, customers with a Chowbus Plus membership have access to exclusive rewards and free delivery without any restriction on distance. All Chowbus customers can try out Chowbus Plus free for the first month.

Australia has a rich Asian food culture and history, and our goal is to connect more people with the best dishes that their Asian restaurants have to offer. But that starts with supporting our restaurant partners, said Linxin Wen, co-founder and CEO of Chowbus. We are committed to true partnerships with restaurants and provide high-quality photography and marketing insights to help them grow with no hidden fees. We dont succeed unless they do.

This international launch builds on the momentum that Chowbus has gained over the past year. After securing a $33 million Series A funding round this July, the company now works with more than 3,000+ restaurants in 27 cities across North America and Australia, including Vancouver, Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York. Chowbus is poised to continue expanding its global market footprint and bring its food-delivery service to help food lovers explore authentic Asian flavors and help restaurants grow their business.

We love Chowbus because it is one of the user-friendly food delivery apps, said Gary Gui, director of Taste of Lan Japanese Dining. The ability to bundle dishes from different restaurants at the same time is also so unique because it saves money for the customers and also benefits nearby businesses."

To learn more about Chowbus, visit chowbus.com .

*additional cut-off times for ordering may apply to food lovers in the suburbs and some areas of the city.

About Chowbus

Chowbus is a food delivery platform providing high-quality, authentic Asian food, that empowers local independent restaurants and stores with the technology, tools, and marketing to grow their business. Founded in 2016 by chief executive officer Linxin Wen and chief technology officer Suyu Zhang, Chowbus helps people discover local Asian cuisine that isnt easily found on traditional third-party delivery apps.

Chowbus provides a curated list of high-quality mom-and-pop restaurants and stores (paired with real food pictures), a unique bundling feature that allows users to order from multiple restaurants in a single delivery with no added fees, and reliable delivery service.

Media Contact:

Becca Reyes

rebecca@propllr.com

262.744.8117

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0e333d05-94b0-4162-a9db-5af3c627d0b4
NEW YORK, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Virtual Investor Conferences, the leading proprietary investor conference series, today announced the agenda for the upcoming Virtual lnvestor Conference focused on gold mining investment opportunities in the Province of Quebec. Individual investors, institutional investors, advisors, and analysts are invited to listen to the executive management of mining companies discuss their property positions, development schedules, market opportunity, and investment highlights. The program opens at 9:00 AM ET, with the first webcast at 9:30 AM ET on Tuesday, October 6th.

REGISTER NOW AT: https://bit.ly/30cCmqa

It is recommended that investors pre-register and run the online system check to expedite participation and receive event updates. There is no cost to log-in, attend live presentations or ask questions.

"OTC Markets Group is proud to host our inaugural Quebec Mining Day, highlighting gold mining investment opportunities in Quebec, co-sponsored by the Government of Quebec, Murdock Capital Partners and TAA Advisory, said Jason Paltrowitz, Executive Vice President of Corporate Services at OTC Markets Group. We are pleased to deliver visibility solutions that allow mining companies to amplify their message among a broader base of North American investors. We welcome our esteemed keynotes: Catherine Loubier, New York Delegate General Government of Quebec, Jonatan Julien, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources and Eric Lemieux, Mining Analyst, EBL Consultants for this signature event."

"I look forward to taking part in this event, thoughtfully organized by OTC Markets Group, which will offer additional opportunities for Quebec mining companies to promote their gold projects and to partner with distinguished investors," said Jonatan Julien, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources of the Government of Quebec. "Mining development is a top priority for our government, particularly in the context of the economic recovery, but also as it relates to ensuring prosperity for all of our regions. Quebec is proud to be internationally recognized for its rich mineral potential, affordable clean energy and exemplary social and environmental standards. We are committed to remain leaders amongst the most attractive jurisdictions in the world for mining investments."

"I am delighted to take part in the Gold Mining investment Opportunities in the province of Quebec, hosted by OTC Markets," said Catherine Loubier, Delegate General in New York, Government of Quebec. "Quebec has a deep expertise in mining and a rich one in gold mining. The companies taking part in this event are a testimony to that. I'm confident that U.S. investors and partners will gain further appreciation of Quebec's mining industry during the conference. With abundant and affordable hydropower, as well as excellent track records on the environment and in community relations, Quebec is poised to generate considerable interest. We are thankful to our partners OTC Markets, Murdock Capital Partners and TAA Advisory for this remarkable event."

October 6th Agenda:

To facilitate investor relations scheduling and to view a complete calendar of Virtual Investor Conferences, please visit

www.virtualinvestorconferences.com .

About Virtual Investor Conferences

Virtual Investor Conferences (VIC) is the leading proprietary investor conference series that provides an interactive forum for publicly-traded companies to meet and present directly with investors.

A real-time solution for investor engagement, Virtual Investor Conferences is part of OTC Market Group's suite of investor relations services specifically designed for more efficient Investor Access. Replicating the look and feel of on-site investor conferences, Virtual Investor Conferences combine leading-edge conferencing and investor communications capabilities with a comprehensive global investor audience network.

SOURCE Virtual Investor Conferences
The Greater Accra Zabarma Chief and President of Ghana Zabarma Association, Alhaji Sarki Pro-Umar Abubakar Tanko on Tuesday sent a message of condolence to the entire members of Nasara wing of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) over the death of former Nasara Wing Coordinator and a Founding father Alhaji Fuseini Maiga.



"On behalf of the Greater Accra Zabarma Community, the Association and in my own name, Alhaji Sarki Pro-Umar Abubakar Tanko" offered heartfelt condolences on the death of Alhaji Fuseini Maiga and extended his sincere regards to the NPP government and members, as well as to the family of the late Founding father of Nasara Wing.



He said in his message that Alhaji Fuseini Maiga was an outstanding personality within and outside the Muslim community and had devoted himself to the development of the Zangos and the nation at large.



"Alhaji Fuseini Maiga who was a father to me, had pursued friendly relations with Zongo Vibes a super Hausa program I host on Vibe Fm an Accra base radio station and made important contributions to the development of Zongos and NPP".



"I have host Alhaji Fuseini Maiga several times on my show and I really did my very best to promote him and his agenda due to good intentions he had for the Zango Communities".



"Alhaji Fuseini Maiga in 2004 succeeded in his agenda by obtaining a high number of votes for the NPP in the Zongos and through his efforts the NPP won".



"He then continued with his selfless agenda and made a significant impact in the lives of many Zongo youths, indeed the Zongo Community had lost a great leader and he would be forever remain in the minds and hearts of many Zongo youths" revealed.



"We deeply regret the passing on of the late Founding father of Nasara Wing," May Allaah (swt ) forgive him and grant his gentle soul Jannatul Firdaws pro-Umar Tanko said.







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.

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GrammarNazi Senior - BHPian



Join Date: Apr 2013 Location: Bangalore Posts: 1,305 Thanked: 2,780 Times

re: The MG Gloster, now launched at Rs 28.98 lakh The interiors definitely look great & well put together. Those blank labels on the seats should've been replaced though. Would've cost nothing to have "Gloster" engraved onto them.



The engine capacity of the Gloster is 1996cc, whereas the engine capacity of the FIAT 2.0 MJD is 1956cc, (both are 4-cylinder units), which means MG has either used SIACs own engine (Likely, since it's a CKD kit),



OR



heavily re-worked on the FIAT 2.0MJD (for a longer piston stroke, possibly for some basic torque grunt in the lower end of the revs while the bi-turbo spooled in the mid & high rev range for peak torque) viz also likely as it the engine already doing duty on both, the Hector and Hector+.



Point being, this is surprisingly austere & smart as it'd help reduce costs and that'd help MG position the Gloster as a very competitive package!



IMO The single turbo variant would have good mid-range torque for its respective peak performance. It'd be a relatively "decent" highway cruiser, whereas the bi-turbo would be perform " exceedingly well" in this regard.



Reliability : It would've been mattered if this was a new engine, but it's a tried and tested block that SIAC has already been using.



Feature Kit : I'm NOT taken in by some of the Glosters equipment, like say the ADAS. There are many Car Dash-Cams that have the lane departure feature and it's a pain in Indian conditions where highway traffic requires one to depart their lane many times - it needs to be switched off even in those dash-cams.



Valid factors of the competition would be Toyota's Reliability while FORD too seems to be soon coming with its bi-turbo Endeavour which would have a 10-Speed Automatic Gearbox, well equipped and a known brand. Both will see tough times since the Endeavour bi-turbo isn't here yet and Toyota Fortuner anyway was neither VFM nor did they offer the kit level that's offered in other markets.



This segment craved competition & here it is ! Last edited by GrammarNazi : 28th September 2020 at 23:24 .
Mariana Alonso was one of the influencers paid to advertise Anglia Ruskin University. (Instagram/Wikipedia)

A dozen influencers were paid to persuade A-level students to enrol at a university despite many of them having no genuine connection to the institution, bosses have admitted.

The life-style, fashion and travel influencers promoted Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge on Instagram in the weeks leading up to this year's A Level results.

Many of the posts, that were shared on A Level results day, carried captions that gushed about how important their time at university was.

The posts were shared for any students who did not get the grades for their first choice of university, and had to go through clearing.

However many of those promoting Anglia Ruskin did not actually study at the university.

Lifestyle blogger Mariana Alonso posted about the university to her 82,000 Instagram followers. (Instagram)

Influencers who promoted the university included travel and lifestyle blogger Mariana Alonso, who has a following of 82,800 users, and graduated seven years ago as an engineer from Faculdades Integradas de Cataguases, in Brazil.

And travel blogger Lauren, who runs the Instagram account Spain With Lauren, also promoted Anglia Ruskin to her 10,400 followers  but with no mention of having studied there.

Meanwhile, travel, fashion and lifestyle influencer Grace Bee, who has 5,764 followers, admitted that she did not study at Anglia Ruskin  but promoting them was a "business transaction".

She told Vice: "For me personally, it was a business transaction. However, Im quite picky with the brands I work with and I would never promote a brand I didnt believe in.

"Although I didnt study at Anglia Ruskin, I think my time in further education was really formative so I was more than happy to promote it to my followers."

Anglia Ruskin admitted to paying the influencers as part of marketing the institution. (Wikipedia)

Anglia Ruskin is one of the universities who spend the most money on marketing  in one year alone, they spent 1.19million on social media, search engines and print.

A spokesperson for Anglia Ruskin University said: "We strongly believe in widening participation and a high proportion of our students are the first in their family to attend university.

Story continues

"Our Instagram partners talk about how their university experiences and qualifications have helped to transform their own lives  sometimes in quite radical ways.

"These posts, all written by the individuals themselves and clearly marked with an 'ad' tag, focus on the wider benefits of considering a university education."

Watch: Twenty-nine tonnes of carrots dumped outside London university
A mother in south Florida has been arrested on seven counts of child neglect after her children reported her to police for abandoning them while she went to live with her husband for more than a month.

Elidiesneins Perez, 35, allegedly ditched the minors aged four to 17 years old around July 17 after her spouse was released from jail and issued a restraining order due to a child abuse arrest involving the children aged 16 and 17 the day before.

On August 27 her son called 911 to say that she had failed to enroll him for school and authorities learned they'd been surviving off little food, unsanitary conditions and lack of medical attention.

Perez has another child, a newborn with her husband.

Elidiesneins Perez (left), 35, allegedly ditched the minors aged four to 17 years old around July 17 and went to live with her spouse (right) with whom she has a newborn

Detectives found only a pack of chicken and small amount of rice to eat at the Miami home

The seven abandoned children had no way of contacting Perez because she didn't leave an address or telephone number, according to the North Miami Police.

When detectives showed up there was only some chicken legs left in the fridge and a small amount of rice, which they were eating for breakfast.

A judge said that it was 'alarming that anybody in this day and age' would leave their children alone and without schooling.

Authorities learned that the children had not been to a laundromat in two months so did not have clean clothing or bedding, WSVN reports.

One of the children who lives with cerebral palsy hadn't received the physical therapy treatment recommended and was supposed to be getting surgery.

Another child also suffered from a health condition that needed attention.

She allegedly left one of the children who lives with cerebral palsy and who hadn't received the physical therapy treatment recommended

They hadn't cleaned their clothing or bedding for two months according to a police report

None of the youngsters had seen a doctor or a dentist in five years.

They said that a family friend offered to take care of them in San Diego but Perez allegedly refused because it would mean losing a monthly check she gets for two of the minors.

Neighbors told NBC that there was always something happening inside the home.

'There's a lot of screaming,' the neighbor said.

In an interview shown on NBC the husband simply said the allegations are untrue.

Police said the children would prefer to go into foster care than return to their mother's care.

The minors were transferred into the care of the Department of Children and Family Services.

Perez was being held on $15,000 bond.

Her husband was jailed July 16 for child abuse involving the children ages 16 and 17 and wasn't allowed to go to the North Miami home due to a restraining order
Energy Tech Summit 2020 virtual week We have been getting a lot of positive feedback, which shows that the pandemic cant stop the industry from moving forward and that the demand for high quality content is as high as ever.

The recent pandemic has not only awakened the world to the climate change but also encouraged businesses to look for more environmentally friendly solutions. Last week, Lithuania hosted the biggest global energy tech and e-mobility conference of the year so far. Due to the outbreak of COVID-19 and travel restrictions, Energy Tech Summit 2020 was moved to an online platform, saving over 900 people from catching flights and significantly contributing to the reduction of CO2 emissions.

As the demand for new and sustainable innovations is growing rapidly, Energy Tech Summit is an annual event, introducing the latest developments in energy and mobility sectors, while bringing an impressive network from the Baltics and Nordics for a constructive debate with Global industry leaders.

Although many conferences were cancelled due to the pandemic, Energy Tech Summit 2020 found an environmentally friendly solution to host the event despite the unprecedented situation. Originally a two-day event taking place in Vilnius in April, was changed to a five-day live virtual event in September, saving thousands of kilograms in CO2 emissions.

It was definitely a big challenge, as we never hosted a virtual event on such a big scale before, but Energy Tech Summit 2020 exceeded our expectations. We have been getting a lot of positive feedback, which shows that the pandemic cant stop the industry from moving forward and that the demand for high quality content is as high as ever," states Rimas Maliauskas, the managing partner at Energy Tech Summit.

In 5 days, the conference hosted over 140 top industrys experts in more than 70 sessions. It was joined by over 900 attendees, more than 120 venture capital funds, 50 corporates, and over 200 start-ups participating from more than 40 countries from 5 continents. The line-up included such energy sector giants as Japans Tepco, Italys Enel, the UKs British Petroleum, the Estonias Eesti Energia, the Lithuanias Ignitis, and U.S.-headquartered Chevron. The event also featured representatives from the most substantial venture capital funds, including delegates from Bill Gates Breakthrough Energy Ventures and BMWs venture capital fund BMW i Ventures.

Throughout the event, the viewers also had a chance to observe the finals of New Energy Challengers. Its an initiative that brought energy, transport and sustainability startups from all around the world to compete for equity free money prize, and the attention of global media, and over 75 VCs and CVCs.

New Energy Challengers received over 200 applications from 20 countries globally and only 30 top jury voted companies were invited to the finals. Start-up companies competed in six categories that play an important role in the sustainable energy transition: Batteries, Hydrogen, E-mobility, Digitalization, Automation & AI and Future grid. The ultimate winner was announced on Friday, which was Soteria Battery Innovation Group.

Despite New Energy Challengers, the viewers were in for another treat: "Innovation for #EnergySmart World Hackathon". It is a two-day challenge organised by Ignitis Innovation Hub and the Lithuanian Ministry of Energy, where enthusiasts from different fields got together in teams to find the best proposal for the Lithuanian energy sector. The winners of the competition were also announced on the last day of the event.

We couldnt have done it without our sponsors and supporters like Ignitis Innovation Hub, E.ON, Eesti Energia, Agency for Science, Innovation and Technology of Lithuania, Techleap.nl, Go Vilnius, Amazon Web Services, and the host  Contrarian Ventures to name a few. Since Energy Tech Summit 2020 was a huge success, we are already in the works for the next years edition, taking place on the 28-29th of April in 2021. It will be a hybrid event dedicated to acknowledging leading investors in the sustainable energy transition that will combine both, virtual and physical platforms, mentioned Rimas Maliauskas, the managing partner at Energy Tech Summit.

Although the event was hosted live that didnt stop people from networking. Conference attendees had the opportunity to book one on one meetings with any other guests or enter virtual boots. Energy Tech Summit 2020 is a good example of the endless business opportunities if the companies are willing to adapt to the vast changes.
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Description: Imagine a place where the heart of the party beats to a salsa rhythm. Where great live music, perfect cocktails and beautiful food meet. Where every day isn't every day. You can get all this and more, right now, right here in Bristol. Revolucion de Cuba is all about celebrating the vibrant Cuban rhythm. With live music, salsa socials and samba girls, there is always a fiesta to be had. Whether you want relaxed drinks with friends, the party of a lifetime or a delicious meal with your loved one, at Cuba it'll truly be an amazing and unforgettable experience. The food is brought to life with Cuban energy, Latino passion and more than just a hint of Havana flavour.
People exit a boat at Bhashan Char, the island where Bangladeshi government officials plan to relocate thousands of Rohingya from refugee camps in and around Cox's Bazar, Oct. 15, 2018.

Rohingya refugees living on Bhashan Char said Bangladesh Navy personnel beat them with rubber clubs and tree branches last month when they protested their detention on the island, according to a Human Rights Watch statement on Thursday, drawing denials from government officials.

About 306 Rohingya who have been on the island since May began a hunger strike on Sept. 21, about two weeks after a group of Rohingya leaders from refugee camps in and around Coxs Bazar traveled to the island to judge its suitability for resettlement, HRW said.

Rohingya living on Bhashan Char confirmed the HRW report of mistreatment.

In a darkly ironic attempt to portray Bhashan Char as a safe location, Bangladesh authorities beat Rohingya refugees, including children, who were protesting their detention and begging to return to their families in Coxs Bazar, Brad Adams, Asia director of New York-based Human Rights Watch, said in a statement.

The real way to show Bhashan Char is secure and habitable would be to allow United Nations experts to conduct an independent assessment of the island and to ensure that any relocation there is voluntary.

Bangladesh authorities told BenarNews, an RFA-afffiliated online news service, that they would decide whether to return the Bhashan Char refugees to the mainland after a second group of Rohingya are taken to visit the island to assess living conditions.

Meanwhile, Mostafa Mohammad Sazzad Hossain, spokesman for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, told BenarNews that U.N. officials had learned about the alleged beatings from media reports.

The Bhashan Char visit should take place as soon as possible so that we can directly speak to the Rohingya refugees, he told BenarNews.

Bangladesh built facilities on Bhashan Char, a low-lying island in the Bay of Bengal, with the aim of relieving pressure on densely packed refugee camps in Coxs Bazar district, which house close to 1 million Rohingya who fled cycles of violence in Myanmar, where they are a despised and stateless minority.

We were beaten

The Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media agency of the armed forces and the ministry of defense, called the HRW report unrealistic, untrue, confusing and a falsehood.

The Bangladesh Navy has been working to ensure a smooth life for the forcefully displaced people of Myanmar in Bhashan Char. Through coordination with other forces, the navy has been ensuring safety of these forcefully displaced people, the ISPR said.

Dipak Jyoti Khisha, additional superintendent of police in Noakhali district which oversees Bhashan Char, said the Rohingya on the island had been treated properly.

None of them were beaten, he told BenarNews.

Two young Rohingya living on Bhashan Char challenged the government officials, saying they were mistreated during their hunger strike.

Beginning Sept. 20, we did not take food for three consecutive days and demanded reintegration with our families in Coxs Bazar, Mahabubur Rahman, 19, told BenarNews. We were beaten when all the men, women, and children went out of the building.

He said he had relatives at a refugee camp in Ukhia, a sub-district of Coxs Bazar.

Md Jobair, 20, said he and others living on the island were suffering.

We did not get any assurance even after staging a hunger strike for three days, he told BenarNews.

A.A. Mamun Chowdhury, the director of Bhashan Char development project, said staff on the island worked with the Rohingya.

On Sept. 21 and 22, they did not take food, but none of them got sick. They took food as we motivated them to end their hunger strike, he said.

He said a high-level meeting was held on Sept. 22 to discuss efforts to help the Rohingya return to the mainland, but reached no decision.

CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story misidentified A.A. Mamun Chowdhury and misreported details of the Sept. 22 meeting regarding returning Rohingya to the mainland.

Reported by BenarNews,an RFA-affiliated online news service.
This article is part of the Policing and Technology Project, a collaboration between Future Tense and the Tech, Law, & Security Program at American University Washington College of Law that examines the relationship between law enforcement, police reform, and technology.

Public demand for racial justice and police accountability will remain a defining feature of 2020 long after the coronavirus pandemic has subsided. In the aftermath of police violence resulting in the deaths of Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, Daniel Prude, and Rayshard Brooks, many took to the streets to protest police brutality and to demand changes. Currently, public officials across the United States are considering major reforms to address the entrenched institutional biases that have influenced policing policy and interactions with Black and Hispanic community members. Some proposals are sweepinglike dramatically curtailing the funding and fundamental purpose of police departmentswhile others are more incremental, like making data on complaints against officers publicly available, developing a national database to track police shootings, improving deescalation training, and passing laws to curb the use of pretextual traffic stops.

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While these alternatives are being considered, it is important to take a moment to reflect on whether we should expect these proposals to workand what work means here. When people propose a particular police reform, they often do not explain why they expect it to make a difference. When there is a sense of urgency, there is also a tendency to think that there are obvious solutions. But common-sense solutions can often turn out to be nonsense in the realm of public policy, leading people to search for the next idea to implement immediately. (Scared Straight and DARE are familiar examples of highly touted programs that failed to live up to expectations). Unfortunately, there is no vaccine for solving the complex problems of police violence and racial injustice. As evidence of that, we can look to the body-worn camera.

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Police departments started adopting body cameras 10 years ago, and their use accelerated after the police killings of Eric Garner and Michael Brown in 2014. Nearly half of police departments in the U.S. (7,259 agencies) were using the devices in some capacity by June 2016, according to a report from the Bureau of Justice Statistics. (That number has almost certainly gone up, but there is not more recent reliable data.) After the New Orleans Police Department transitioned to body cameras, Superintendent Michael Harrison noted in the Daily Signal, Because we are truly transparent, we are given the benefit of the doubt many times. Citizens are feeling better about us, and officers are feeling better about their department. Similarly, Travis Easter, media relations coordinator for the San Diego Police Department, asserted, If officers and citizens are being watched, we are both more liable to do the right thing. But these optimistic statements, made in 2016, feel tone-deaf now.

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Body-worn cameras did not prevent Floyd, Prude, and Brooks from dying at the hands of police violence while being recorded by the officers at the scene. Indeed, it may even seem that things are getting worse since the implementation of body cameras.

Part of the problem lies in the assumptions people make about widespread adoption of body cameras: that they will create more transparency and accountability for officers on the job, which in turn will reduce abuses of authority and, eventually, will increase trust and confidence in the police. The unrealized potential of body cams should serve as a reminder as policymakers undertake police reform at this critical juncture in U.S. history.

This logic is flawed for three reasons. First, although the devices have created more transparency around how officers respond to calls and interact with community members, this has not generated greater accountability in many police jurisdictions. The technology itself does not produce accountabilityrather, it comes from the departmental policies dictating how and when the devices are used in the field.

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Research we conducted in 2012 in Mesa, Arizona, found that police turned on their cameras 70 percent of the time under a mandatory activation policy, but activations dropped to 50 percent under a discretionary policy. In another large department with 12,000 officers, we are finding that officers turn on their cameras at fewer than 25 percent of calls for service. (This research has not yet been published.) There is too much latitude for officers in some jurisdictions to not activate their cameras or turn them off, possibly in situations where they feel their actions may come under scrutiny. This problem may not be widespread, but according to a report by the National Institute of Justice, use of force occurs in 1 percent of police contacts and deadly force occurs in only a small fraction of this 1 percent. If police departments do not require officers to turn on their cameras, then many of these violent encounters will not be captured. (And of course, as our Mesa study suggests, police may refuse to turn on their cameras even when required.) One of the officers who conducted the raid on Breonna Taylors Kentucky apartment was wearing a body camerawhy wasnt it turned on in advance? Policies also regulate how video is stored, chain of custody, and access to the footage. For example, the video footage of Daniel Prudes death was not released to his familys attorney until nine weeks later, after a determination was already made about the officers culpability. In short, the use of body cameras is not leading to accountability because the departmental policies are insufficient. Until these policy gaps are addressed, body cameras are unlikely to make police officers more accountable.

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The second reason body cameras may not have lived up to their early hype is that more transparency around police violence has created a distorted representation of peoples experiences in different parts of the country. Police violence is more visceral and upsetting when viewed through the lens of cameras worn by officers at the scene. As the video footage is played on repeat on news channels and social networking sites, police departments are not just seeing reputational damagethey are hemorrhaging public trust and confidence in some jurisdictions. People will typically draw from personal experience when forming opinions about the police, but in the absence of direct contact with the police officers, their judgments can depend on news coverage.

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Ted Chiricos, a criminologist at Florida State University, conducted research on fear of crime that offers insights on how these individuals might fill in the gaps. Chiricos research finds that reading news stories about crime makes people more afraid of crime, as one might expect. Local news stories have the most significant impact on fear, followed by regional and national-level news stories. Without the local news, people will base their fears on what is happening at the national level. A person who has not come in direct contact with law enforcement may make assumptions about their local police based on what is happening in other communities, like Minneapolis and Portland.

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This is not to say that police violence in the U.S. is overstated: The Bureau of Justice Statistics estimated that 1,200 arrest-related deaths occurred in the 12 months ending in May 2016 across 17,000 jurisdictions (and crowdsourced data from Mapping Police Violence has found 826 deaths in 2020). It is only to say that there is a natural tendency for people to fill in the gaps in their local knowledge of the police with what is happening on the national scale. The wide circulation of body camera footage accelerates this process. The media is saturated with videos of police engaging in violent and unlawful behavior, but good cops also engage in kind and compassionate behavior on a regular basis. Those contrasting images are not swamping our media outlets. Thus, the aggregate effect of this continual stream of negative video footage is to do harm to police legitimacy and public trust, despite the benefits of body cameras making police more transparent.

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The final reason body cameras have not ushered in widespread changes is that police departments are implementing the technology with a tactical focus, rather than for strategic purposes. Tactical functions are aimed at collecting evidence for court, investigative support, social control, and protecting officers in the line of duty. These goals benefit officers, but not as much the communities that police are sworn to protect and serve. Police in several countries have noted that false complaints against officers have plummeted since their adoption of the technology. This is a positive outcome, but why have body cameras been used more effectively to keep citizens accountable?

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Police body cameras in the era of Black Lives Matter are no panacea and it was naive to think they would be. In his 1921 Nobel lecture, historian Christian Lange noted, Technology is a useful servant but a dangerous master. The problem is in believing that cameras (or any new technology) can be a quick fix in the absence of strong departmental policies that are fit-for-purpose and focused on strategic objectives. We should not be surprised, then, to see that cameras have not empirically demonstrated consistent effects, as a new systematic review shows. At a time when there is such momentum at making meaningful changes that will improve how police do their job, we should be mindful of the pitfalls of common sense. In 2014, body camera advocates did not expect that in 2020, a Louisville, Kentucky, police officer would simply fail to turn on his camera before entering an apartment. We should not be surprised when solutions that seem common-sense today fail to deliver on their promise in the future.

Future Tense is a partnership of Slate, New America, and Arizona State University that examines emerging technologies, public policy, and society.
Jaipur, Oct 1 : With Rajasthan witnessing a whopping rise in the number of coronavirus cases, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has appealed to leaders of all parties, MPs, MLAs to make the 'public movement against corona' starting from October 2 successful.

Till Wednesday, Rajasthan had 20,581 active cases, while cumulative cases in the state were 1,35,292. The state has registered 1,486 fatalities out of which 408 have been registered in Jaipur itself.

Since last few days, the number of Covid-19 patients in the state have been continuously touching the 2,000 mark, confirmed health officials.

Gehlot said that all leaders rising above the political ideology should participate in this public movement in keeping the virus at bay.

The Chief Minister was discussing with public representatives across all political lines over the public movement via video conferencing from his official residence on Wednesday.

He called upon everybody to take a pledge to make the movement an effective weapon against the ongoing coronavirus war.

He said, "If the number of corona positive cases surge then it will be a big challenge for us." "Saving life is our top priority. There will be no shortage of funds to curb the infection. Masks will be distributed to people during this campaign," said Gehlot adding that he himself will kickstart the campaign from Albert Hall in Jaipur at 4:30 pm on October 2.

The next day on October 3 all Ministers will visit the districts under their charge to initiate and monitor the campaign.

Assembly Speaker C.P. Joshi said the 'apolitical Covid-19 campaign' will set an example in the country.

Former Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje said that the corona infection is in its most dangerous phase now. In such a situation everyone has to work together rising above politics and party interests.

State Minister Shanti Dhariwal said that the public movement from October 2 will start in 11 district headquarters, which will be later extended to other districts also. One crore masks will be distributed during this event. If required, more masks will be made available.

Health Minister Raghu Sharma said that the state government has taken effective steps to keep the infection under control. The recovery rate in the State is 84 per cent, whereas the fatality rate is the lowest.

Minister of State for Health Subhash Garg said, "We all should take an oath that for next one month no one will come out of the house without wearing a mask." Leader of Opposition Gulab Chand Kataria said that fixing the target should move ahead in controlling the infection. He said that full cooperation will be extended in publicity during the campaign.

State Education Minister Govind Singh Dotasara said that the general public will be made aware through this public movement.

BJP State President Satish Poonia assured that appropriate support will be extended on behalf of his party in mask distribution and other works in the campaign against Covid-19.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
The TV audience for the widely panned first presidential debate on Tuesday between President Donald Trump and his challenger, former Vice President Joe Biden, fell short of expectations.

Preliminary Nielsen data for the live 90-minute showdown from Case Western University in Cleveland was watched by an average of nearly 70 million viewers.

The official tally to be issued later Wednesday will fall dramatically below the all-time high of 84 million who tuned in on Sept. 26, 2016, to watch Trumps first meeting against Hillary Clinton.

Many pundits predicted a record-setting number. Instead, the chaotic slugfest  described by political analysts and Biden as a national embarrassment  may have been a turnoff.

Trump frequently interrupted and badgered Biden. He also hectored debate moderator Chris Wallace, an anchor on the presidents favored cable channel Fox News, who battled at times to keep the proceedings under control.

Wallace offered Trump an ample opportunity to denounce white supremacists. Trumps failure to do so and his apparent call for Proud Boys, a far right group to stand by, became the major post-debate story.

Biden responded in testy exchanges by calling the president a clown and telling him to shut up. On Twitter, Trump criticized Wallace, accusing him of aiding Biden in the debate.

Fox News had the most viewers of any network with 17.8 million. ABC was second with 12.6 million viewers, followed by NBC (9.7 million), CNN (8.1 million), MSNBC (7.2 million), CBS (6.4 million), the Fox broadcast network (5.4 million), Fox Business Network (758,000) and CNN Espanol (95,000).

The debate also aired on WGN America, PBS, Univision, Telemundo and other smaller outlets. Nielsen will release a total including those figures later Wednesday.

Trump and Biden are scheduled to debate two more times, on Oct. 15 in Miami and Oct. 22 in Nashville, Tennessee. Vice President Mike Pence will debate Bidens running mate Sen. Kamala Harris of California on Oct. 7 in Salt Lake City.

The Commission on Presidential Debates said Tuesday that it will consider format changes in the future meetings.

Last nights debate made clear that additional structure should be added to the format of the remaining debates to ensure a more orderly discussion of the issues, the commission said in a statement. The CPD will be carefully considering the changes that it will adopt and will announce those measures shortly.



Stephen Battaglio of the Los Angeles Times wrote this story.

2020 Los Angeles Times

Visit the Los Angeles Times at www.latimes.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Youve probably seen the super edited, airbrushed-to-death pictures all over Instagram and wondered if youll ever attain that incredible level of perfection. Or youve whipped out a smartphone to take a selfie and thought your skin looked smoother than usual. Truth is, lots of images online are edited, and some smartphone cameras turn on some sort of filter or smoothing effect by default. As part of its Digital Wellbeing initiative, Google has create a design framework thats meant to provide more control and transparency around selfie filters. This is meant to help respect personal choices around face retouching on smartphones, the company said.

Google found from multiple studies and interviews with child and mental health experts that when someone is unaware a camera or photo app has applied a filter, the images can negatively impact mental wellbeing. These default filters can quietly set a beauty standard that some people compare themselves against, product manager Vinit Modi wrote in a blog post.

Phones like Samsungs Galaxy flagships and even Googles own Pixels have offered selfie retouching in their camera apps, but it can sometimes take multiple steps to find them to turn them off or on. With its new approach, Google wants to make it clearer if a photo youre taking has an effect enabled.

This feature will start rolling out in the Pixel 4a. Face retouching is turned off by default, and an upcoming update will use more neutral language and symbols for these tools as opposed to words with value attached to them like beautifying or perfecting. One of these changes, for example, is going with the label subtle instead of natural, which might imply that a lightly edited picture is natural.

Also, if you decide to use a retouching tool, youll see more information about how each setting is applied and what changes it makes to your image, Modi said.

This set of guidelines isnt something Google wants to use only with its products  its looking to convince other companies as well. Meaningful change takes collective effort, across a broad ecosystem of apps and devices, Modi wrote, adding that Googles partners have shared feedback from their own customers that echo what its research has found. Weve shared our insights and design framework with them as they continue to find ways to update their product experiences as well, Modi said.

Modi pointed to Snapchat as an app that shares our beliefs adding that the latters default camera experience is unfiltered and that it offers an option to opt-in to lenses, which overlay effects on your face. Google also noted that Snapchats Lens Studio tool to create the filters uses value-neutral labels and that the latter is committed to continuing to make improvements in this area.

While the tools we use to take and edit pictures may get more neutral labelling and more transparency soon, another piece of the puzzle is where these images are shared. People have called for photos that have been edited to be labeled as such so impressionable users dont think the doctored images are representative of reality. Weve yet to see platforms like Instagram comment on the possibility of such a feature. For now, Googles effort to encourage transparency in selfies is a thoughtful first step.
(Newser)  A 17-year-old who pushed a log off a cliff at an Ohio park over Labor Day weekend last year, killing a mom of four, has pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter. Jordan Buckley, who'd originally faced murder and reckless homicide charges, put in his plea last Friday regarding the death of 44-year-old photographer Victoria Schafer at Hocking Hills State Park, Fox News reports. "I understand that my actions that day [have] caused your family's life to change," Buckley said to Schafer's family in court, per a video shared by Inside Edition. "I know that no words that I can speak can bring back your beloved wife, daughter, and sister." Buckley went on to say he would live his life honoring Schafer by trying to keep others out of similar trouble.

story continues below

"There will not be a day for the rest of my life that I will not think of this tragedy," he added. "I hope that someday you will find it in your heart to forgive me." The Columbus Dispatch notes that prosecutors, citing an attempt to cover up their crime and a "lack of remorse," had wanted both boys to be tried as adults. They were, though the case will shift to juvenile court for sentencing. Jaden Churchheus, now 17, also pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter earlier this month for his own role in Schafer's death. "I have thought about the fact that I caused someone's death every day since it happened," he said, per WSYX. "And I will carry that for the rest of my life. ... I am truly sorry." The two are set to be sentenced later this year, with a judge's recommendation they each get at least three years in a juvenile detention center. (Read more manslaughter stories.)
The Opposition parties sharpened their attack on the Yogi government over the gangrape of a 20-year-old Dalit woman in Uttar Pradeshs Hathras district. On Thursday, Samajwadi Party chief and former UP chief minister Akhilesh Yadav alleged that the district administration misbehaved with the family of the rape victim at the behest of the state government.

The Samajwadi Party chief added that the public is now seeing the true colour of BJPs misrule."

The family of the Hathras victim was beaten and misbehaved with by the district administration at the behest of the state government. Now, the people will reply in a similar fashion and pull them to the doorstep of justice. The public is seeing the true colour of BJPs misrule. It will not be long before the cloak of hypocrites is taken off, Yadav wrote on Twitter.

Earlier, expressing shock over another gang-rape case, which was reported from Balrampur, after the Hathras incident, BSP supremo Mayawati asked the Centre to step in while accusing the Yogi Adityanaths government of failing to curb crimes against women.

After Hathras incident, I hoped the UP government would take action against people committing crimes against women. But a similar crime has been committed against a Dalit student in Balrampur. Under BJP government in UP, criminals, mafias and rapists are having a free run. The centre should intervene, she said.

Mayawati further held CM Adityanath responsible for the deteriorating law and order situation in the state. Yogi was made CM under RSS pressure. BJP should take up the matter with the RSS, she said, adding that their chief minister should be replaced or Presidents rule be imposed.

On Wednesday, Congress, Left and Bhim Army activists staged protests near the Uttar Pradesh Bhawan and India Gate in the national capital, demanding justice for a 19-year-old woman who died a fortnight after she was allegedly gang-raped in Hathras. She was cremated in the dead of the night with family members alleging they were forced by police to hurriedly conduct the last rites, a charge that triggered further outrage.
U.S. EMBASSY OUAGADOUGOU

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT # 2020-020

DISPATCHER

The U.S. Mission in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso is seeking eligible and qualified applicants for the position of Dispatcher in the General Services Office.

Opening Date : September 28, 2020

Closing Date : October 12, 2020

Open to : All interested candidates/ All sources

Work Schedule : Full-time (40 hours/week)

SALARY : *Ordinarily Resident (OR) : CFA 7,271,427 p.a. (Starting Salary)

(Position Grade : FSN-05)

ALL ORDINARILY RESIDENT (OR) APPLICANTS (See Appendix for definition) MUST HAVE THE REQUIRED WORK AND/OR RESIDENCY PERMITS TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR CONSIDERATION.

BASIC FUNCTION OF POSITION :

Working in the Motor Pool unit of the General Services Office (GSO), the Dispatcher coordinates daily as well as advanced assignments for all drivers to schedule transportation for post personnel and official visitors.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED :

1. EDUCATION : Completion of secondary school is required.

2. EXPERIENCE : Minimum of two (2) years of motor vehicle dispatcher or fleet management experience is required.

3. LANGUAGE English - (Good working knowledge) Reading/Writing/Speaking is required. French- (Good working knowledge) Reading/Writing/Speaking is required. This may be tested.

4. SKILLS AND ABILITIES :

 A valid drivers license is required

 Strong leadership, technical, and administrative skills.

 Basic keyboard skills and skills in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook applications. This may be tested.

5. JOB KNOWLEDGE :

 Good knowledge of host country traffic laws, vehicle licensing, registration, and procedures.

 Detailed knowledge of host country streets, traffic patterns, and commonly visited locations.

HOW TO APPLY : Applicants must complete the following application process to be considered :

 Create an account on the Electronic Recruitment Application (ERA) Website at https://erajobs.state.gov/dos-era/bfa/vacancysearch/searchVacancies.hms

 Choose Announcement Number Ouaga-2020-020 Dispatcher and complete the online application.

 Upload any additional documentation that supports or addresses the requirements listed above (e.g. cover letter, degrees certificates, wok permits & SF 50 if applicable) into the Electronic Recruitment Application system.

Required Documents : Please provide the required documentation listed below with your application :

 Residency and/or Work Permit (If applicable)

 Secondary school diploma

 DD-214 - Member Copy 4, Letter from Veterans Affairs, or other supporting documentation (if applicable)

 SF-50 (if applicable)

 Relevant Work attestations and Certificates.

What to Expect Next : Applicants who are invited to take a language or skills test, or who are selected for an interview will be contacted via telephone calls and email.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION : The complete position description listing all of the duties and responsibilities may be obtained by contacting the Human Resources Office at HROOuaga@state.gov

Note :

 All Application must be made in English.

 All applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

 All applications must be for an open/advertised position.

 Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY : The U.S. Mission provides equal opportunity and fair and equitable treatment in employment to all people without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, political affiliation, marital status, or sexual orientation. The Department of State also strives to achieve equal employment opportunity in all personnel operations through continuing diversity enhancement programs. The EEO complaint procedure is not available to individuals who believe they have been denied equal opportunity based upon marital status or political affiliation. Individuals with such complaints should avail themselves of the appropriate grievance procedures, remedies for prohibited personnel practices, and/or courts for relief.
Man arrested after allegedly hiding in the bedroom closet of a Florida teenager for more than a month (iStock)

A man was arrested after allegedly hiding in the bedroom closet of a Florida teenager for more than a month before being caught.

Johnathan Rossmoine is accused of hiding from the teens parents at their home in Spring Hill, Florida, for weeks while he sexually assaulted their 15-year-old daughter.

Rossmoine, 36, admitted that he had travelled multiple times from his home in Louisiana to have sex with the teenager, say police.

Hernando County officials say that on this last trip Rossmoine spent five weeks at the home, arriving there on August 19, before he was caught.

He was finally discovered by the family when they reportedly heard nosies coming from the bedroom.

He and the young lady came up with the idea that he could just stay in her room if he hid in the closet whenever the parents came in, Hernando County Sheriffs Office detective Tom Cameron told FOX 13.

They kept the bedroom door closed and locked.

Whenever someone came to the door it gave them an opportunity to run and hide in the closet and open up the door to where maybe she was changing or something.

Rossmoine also allegedly told officers he had sex with the teenager in his van which was parked near her home.

Police say Rossmoine met his victim two years ago on a messaging app.

He was charged with four counts of lewd and lascivious behaviour, obscene behaviour and travelling to meet a child for sexual purposes.

Read more

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DALLAS, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- October 1, 2020 marks the 5th Anniversary of Crayon, a global leader in IT and digital transformation. Headquartered in Oslo, Norway, Crayon has over 1,600 employees across approximately 50 locations worldwide.

Crayon will host a live virtual anniversary party on October 15, 2020 at noon Central Time, including giveaways for attendees as well as highlights from the previous five years. The event will be hosted on Facebook Live and will be open to the public.

"We started Crayon in 1999 as a Norwegian software licensing company. As our customer base expanded, so did we, reaching the United States in 2015.

"We stay connected with our Norwegian roots, and our explosive growth in the United States, has made this 5-Year Anniversary exciting as we continue to invest in Crayon US to make it the success we know it will be," said Glenn Orcutt, CEO of Crayon US.

Crayon holds over 600 certifications on a wide range of technology solutions and covers 80 percent of the global market. With its streamlined approach to bringing cost savings and value to organizations through advisory, consulting, and software asset management services, Crayon helps companies rightsize their IT estates placing them in a position to digitally transform and innovate.

Having been selected as the Microsoft AI Machine Learning Partner of the Year in 2019, Crayon has built upon its ability to optimize on-premises and multi-cloud environments by helping companies innovate with artificial intelligence and machine learning solution.

Crayon was recently announced as the #1 fastest-growing company in North Texas by Dallas Business Journal, with 2019 revenue checking in at $203 million. Crayon's 550 percent growth over the past three years in the United States landed them this top spot on the Dallas Business Journal's Middle Market 50 list.

Glenn Orcutt added, "We are looking forward to celebrating along with our customers, partners, employees, and investors on October 15 during this informal, interactive anniversary event. We also welcome future customers and members of the community to join us."

About Us:

Crayon helps customers build the commercial and technical foundation for a successful digital transformation journey through a reliable services framework allowing our customers to right-size and optimize their IT estates to unlock technology's potential and innovation.

For more information contact:

Lesly Kenney

Vice President Marketing, Crayon US

[email protected], +1 720-598-1529

www.crayon.com | Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter

SOURCE Crayon
Ambala Scores of farmers associated with the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) continue to block the Ambala-Hisar highway with their tractors and trolleys, in protest against the non-procurement of paddy at mandis. Farmers have alleged that the procurement process that was to begin on September 26, has not started, despite tonnes of grain reaching the mandis. The protests had started about 10am on Wednesday, with the protesters staying put at the dharna even for the night outside the Ambala City grain market, blocking the major road.

Ambala Police erected barricades on the intersection at the Agrasen Chowk that lead towards Hisar road, restricting the movement of traffic from the city. Former Congress leader and ex-municipal corporator Himmat Singh was among a number of political and social leaders, who had addressed the gathering late night in support of the farmers.

Malkit Singh, district president of BKU, said no one from the administration had contacted them to resolve the issue or give any assurance.
Chief Minister to give Covid-19 General Update today

The Chief Minister will give an update on the Island's COVID-19 situation later.

The Manx Government will hold a press conference 4pm.

You'll able to watch the feed on our Facebook page and website.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 29) - Marinduque Rep. Lord Allan Velasco will be the next Speaker of the House of Representatives starting on Oct. 14, following a meeting with incumbent House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano and President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday.

This was according to one of the lawmakers present at the meeting in Malacanang tonight.

Velasco and Cayetano were joined by eight lawmakers each in the meeting.

The meeting came after leaders from the chambers majority and minority blocs signed a manifesto expressing their support for Cayetanos supposed continued term.

In July 2019, Duterte brokered a term-sharing deal between the two, where it was agreed upon that Cayetano will serve for the first 15 months and Velasco taking over as Speaker in the next 21 months.

Partido Demokratiko Pilipino- Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) Executive Director Ron Munsayac earlier said in a statement that Velascos assumption as House Speaker will mean that the ruling party will finally get a lead in the chamber.

Dutertes PDP-Laban endorsed Velasco last year for the speakership.

With the latest announcement, Velasco is expected to lead the chamber until the end of 18th Congress in June 2022.
The African Centre for Media & Information Literacy (AFRICMIL) and partnersGovernment of Ekiti State, Premium Times Books, Yiaga Africa, Sahara Reporters, Oak TV, CDD, Enough is Enough, Nigeria, and TechHerwill publish a book of essays to mark Nigerias diamond jubilee.

The book, Remaking Nigeria: Sixty Years, Sixty Voices, with a foreword on Federalism in Nigeria, by Dr Kayode Fayemi, Governor of Ekiti State, is edited by Dr Chido Onumah, Coordinator of AFRICMIL.

On October 1, 2020, Nigeria will celebrate her 60th year of political independence. After sixty years of independence, most Nigerians, particularly the youth, hold the view that the country has failed to work for them in a way that is satisfactory and enduring, said Onumah. The aim of the book is to give voice to young Nigerians, the critical change agents, to help the country understand and sharpen its focus on those issues that hold the key to its collective survival.

Clearly, the new decade will be a defining moment for Nigeria. Sixty years after independence, fifty years after a civil war, and at the beginning of a new decade, it is important that a new generation of citizens is challenged to reposition the country, Onumah added.

From interaction with young people and discussions on social media, there appears to be an information and knowledge gap among young people about the history and socio-political evolution of Nigeria. Beyond the lack of understanding of history, there is also a dearth of ideas on what needs to be done and how to get Nigeria out of its current situation. The book and the activities around it are supposed to address these problems.

Contributors to the book are young Nigerians with fresh ideas on nationhood, democracy, and development. The book focuses on issues such as federalism, elections and democracy, constitutionalism, environmental justice, data and ICT, the economy and social inclusion, media and press freedom, youth engagement, law and human rights, education and social services, religion and multiculturalism, leadership challenge and good governance, corruption and accountability, foreign policy and regional cooperation.

Contributors consist of academics, politicians, journalists, writers, youth activists and organisers, gender activists, human rights and civil society activists, etc., focusing on the many challenges confronting Nigeria from their experience, research, and advocacy.

The publication which is supported by the Open Society Initiative for West Africa (OSIWA) and Ford Foundation is set for launch later in October.
The state House of Representatives canceled its voting session Thursday after a Republican lawmaker tested positive for the coronavirus, delaying a crucial vote to extend a rent relief program that has just expired. Read more

Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free weekly newsletter.

HARRISBURG  The state House of Representatives canceled its voting session Thursday after a Republican lawmaker tested positive for the coronavirus, delaying a crucial vote to extend a rent relief program that has just expired.

Speaker Bryan Cutler (R., Lancaster) announced the House will be adjourned until Oct. 19, minutes after Rep. Paul Schemel (R., Franklin) said in a statement that he had tested positive on Thursday morning, after attending a committee meeting in the Capitol on Tuesday.

The news disrupts a last-minute scramble to extend and fix the states $150 million rent relief program, which was meant to help Pennsylvanians struggling to pay rent during the pandemic but has been riddled with problems since it launched in July.

For now, the program is in limbo.

Its not good, said Phyllis Chamberlain, executive director of the Housing Alliance of Pennsylvania, an advocacy group. The program is not going to help all the people it was intended to help because these changes werent made earlier.

The House adjournment also puts several election-related measures on hold, as well, with just over 30 days to go until Nov. 3. That includes a controversial resolution from House Republicans to create and control an election integrity panel with subpoena power. Democrats on Wednesday decried the effort as a stealth attack on the voting process.

Democrats and Republicans are also still debating whether theyll pass additional election reform, including allowing counties to begin processing ballots before Election Day.

Failure to act

Lawmakers have known about the problems with the rent relief program for months. Both landlord and tenant groups  as well as the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, which is overseeing the program, and Gov. Tom Wolf  have been urging changes since the summer.

But despite the urgent need, and the fast-approaching Sept. 30 deadline for people to apply, GOP leadership didnt schedule a vote before October.

Thursdays voting session was canceled out of an abundance of caution, Cutler said in a statement. The member is working with human resources to determine all interactions with other members and staff to track any possible exposures.

While the House is not scheduled to return until Oct. 19, the speaker and majority leader could recall lawmakers before then.

In the meantime, local organizations administering the rent relief program in each county can still work on applications that have already been submitted, and many have large backlogs. But until lawmakers act, these organizations cannot accept any new applications, and important changes needed to make the program more effective will remain on hold.

Im sick over that bill. I could cry, said Rep. Sue Helm (R., Dauphin), the bills sponsor and chair of the House Urban Affairs Committee.

Helm said she hoped the House would be called back into session before Oct. 19. If not, she said, lawmakers could amend the bill to push the application deadline past October.

One way or another were going to make this work because too many people are affected by this, she said.

Running out of time

Thousands of families across Pennsylvania are struggling to pay rent amid the economic crisis caused by the coronavirus. A federal ban on most evictions for nonpayment of rent, in place until the end of the year, offers a temporary reprieve. But without some way to catch up on back rent, advocates warn the ban will only postpone an inevitable wave of evictions.

The state rental assistance program stopped taking new applications Thursday with roughly a third of the $150 million available paid out  a reflection of the obstacles applicants have faced in receiving the aid.

The program, funded with federal CARES Act dollars, was intended to benefit both landlords and renters, allowing property owners to recoup their losses from unpaid rent while helping tenants stay in their homes. But a Spotlight PA review in August found the program has been hamstrung by a cumbersome application process, a $750 cap on the amount of assistance each tenant can receive, and a requirement that landlords waive any remaining rental balance owed.

The local organizations responsible for processing applications say many arrive incomplete, requiring hours of back-and-forth to track down missing paperwork and confirm that tenants are eligible.

The bill that was scheduled for a vote in the House on Thursday would streamline the application process, increase the amount of assistance each household can receive, and extend the deadline to apply.

But even if the House had voted to approve the changes, the timing would have been tight. The bill would extend the application deadline from Sept. 30 to Oct. 31 and would still require approval from the state Senate. That would leave only a narrow window for the changes to take effect, raising the possibility that the program could end, for a second time, with money left over.

I dont know whether it will be enough time, Bryce Maretzki, director of policy and planning at the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, said before the vote was delayed. The further into October it takes to get the changes made, the less time we have for new applications and to re-review existing applications.

Still, the application deadline cannot be pushed back much further without bumping up against the Nov. 30 deadline set in state law for spending Pennsylvanias CARES funding.

Any money remaining after that date will become grants for county governments, which they could spend on their own rental assistance programs. But all the CARES money Pennsylvania received must be spent by the end of the year or returned to the federal government.

Series of warnings

The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency first flagged significant administrative and programmatic challenges with the rent relief program in a memo shared with legislative leaders in early July, just a few days after applications started coming in.

At the end of August, Wolf wrote to lawmakers warning of serious defects with the program, urging fixes as soon as possible.

And during a Senate committee hearing in early September, advocates and state officials again raised the same set of concerns and recommended changes. The same day, several Democratic senators introduced a bill to fix the program. But the Republican committee chair, Sen. Joe Pittman (R., Indiana), has not yet scheduled a meeting to vote on the legislation.

I dont know why theyre sitting on it, because basically theyre denying assistance to thousands of people across Pennsylvania who certainly could use it, said Sen. Vincent Hughes (D., Philadelphia), one of the bills sponsors.

Given the lack of action in Harrisburg, several counties  including Lancaster and Philadelphia  have increased the amount of assistance tenants can receive by bolstering the money from the state with local CARES funding, increasing the monthly payment each tenant can receive to $1,500.

Citing the failures of the states effort, Montgomery County in September created its own rental relief program, which offers more assistance with fewer restrictions and less paperwork.

In York County, the local organization administering the program has used social media, newspaper ads, and billboards to get the word out, and made videos in English and Spanish walking viewers through each step of the application process, said Carl Whitehill, director of marketing and communications at the Community Progress Council.

Even so, many applications arrived incomplete and many landlords have been unwilling to participate, he said. So far, only about a quarter of the funding available has been paid out.

We know there are a lot more renters that need this assistance, Whitehill said.

100% ESSENTIAL: Spotlight PA relies on funding from foundations and readers like you who are committed to accountability journalism that gets results. If you value this reporting, please give a gift today at spotlightpa.org/donate.
New Delhi, Oct 1 : A 22-year-old man on Wednesday hanged himself in Rohini Sector 11 after uploading a video on Facebook.

The deceased, Aman, was rushed to hospital where he was declared brought dead.

According to police, Ram Niwas, the father of deceased, filed a complaint alleging that a girl Suman (name changed), Sumit Goswami and Vipin Khatri were responsible for his son's suicide.

"The scrutiny of this video has revealed that deceased Aman and Suman (name changed) were friends," said DCP Outer North Gaurav Sharma. "In 2018, Suman's father invested Rs 5 lakhs in the business of supplying hotel amenities to the deceased. Due to some reasons, Suman opted out of the business in 2019 and started working with Sumit Goswami. Vipin Khatri is Sumit Goswami's friend," added Sharma.

Further investigations are being carried out, added the police.
Police responded to a theft on Hollyberry Lane. Upon arrival, police spoke with a driver that leases out from Millennial Taxi Service. The driver gave a woman a ride from her home to the grocery store and back to her apartment. When the driver arrived back to the woman's apartment, she said she misplaced her money and did not have the funds to pay him. The woman told police that she recently had a stroke and is forgetful sometimes. She said she will get the money ($16) and contact the driver by Tuesday at noon.Police told her that if she did not pay she could be charged with theft of services. She said she would get the funds together and contact the driver.* * *Police spoke with a manager at Wings Town on 23rd Street. The manager said an employee was sick and he ordered her to go home. When the employee's mother came to the restaurant, she yelled at the manager. The manager said the employee and mother got angry then left.* * *Police responded to suspicious activity at the Red Roof Inn on Shallowford Road. A woman who was staying at the Inn had called police saying that strange things had been happening. The woman said when she went out to walk her dog there were rocks on the floor making the shape of an arrow pointing towards her door. The woman said she was familiar with it and believes it was a Satanic symbol for someone to attack her. The woman requested extra patrol and wanted to document the incident.* * *Police responded to an animal call on N. Hawthorne Street. Upon arrival, the officer spoke with a woman who said that she had another opossum in her house. Several days prior, the officer had removed a young opossum from her bathroom and placed it outside. The woman said she has had other officers remove one from her house as well. The woman said that her landlord had animal control come out and set traps, but did not know if anything had been caught. The officer helped the woman secure her attic and searched her son's room, but was unable to locate any animals. The woman asked for a police report to help her with documentation for her landlord.* * *Police were called for a well-being check on Idlewild Circle. A mother called to say she had not been able to make phone contact with her son for approximately one day. Police arrived at the son's home on Idlewild Circle and located his vehicle in the driveway. Police approached the front door and noticed that it was ajar. The officer pushed the door open a little further and announced his presence as a police officer several times with no reply. The officer continued to call out and identify himself as a police officer while waiting for more units. Once additional officers arrived they made entry into the home, continuing to make their presence known. Officers finally made contact with another tenant who said that he saw the son walking his dog earlier. Officers then located the son's room a short time later with the door locked. The son's dog could be heard barking when officers knocked on the door. Contact was not made with the son, however the other tenant said he would remind the son to call his mother when he woke up. The tenant was made aware of the unsecured door and made changes to the lock as needed. Police called the mother and informed her of their findings. She said that she would call her son again in the morning.* * *Police spoke with a woman from a building on Bridge Circle. The woman said she received an iPhone in the mail. She said that she took the SIM card out of her old phone and placed it in the box with the new iPhone. She said that night someone broke into her apartment and stole the SIM card but left the iPhone. She said there were scuff marks on the floor and scratches on the inside of the door. She told police that the locks were tampered with. The officer asked if the door was tampered with from outside. The woman said she does not know because she is quarantined and will not open her door.* * *A father called police and said he allowed his daughter to borrow his car as transport for work. The father called the daughter after she got off from work and was led to believe she was on the way home. The father tracked the car a home on Tomahawk Trail and found it parked in the driveway. The father tried calling the daughter several times with no answer and became worried the vehicle was stolen. Police knocked on the door and made contact with the daughter who said she lied about coming straight home from work. Instead she went to her boyfriend's house. The daughter returned the keys to her father without issue. The father left the area in the car and the daughter stayed at the house with her boyfriend.* * *Police were called to a home on Shawnee Circle where a woman said that her mother-in-law had been calling her all day and she wanted her to stop. Police asked the woman if she had told her mother-in-law to stop, and she said that any time she brings it up, the mother-in-law ignores her. The woman said it was causing stress in her life and she just wanted the mother-in-law to stop. The woman at one point went back inside the home, and when she came out, she told police that the mother-in-law had called her and told her that she would stop.
The US has announced further sanctions against the Assad regime, which target a host of people and entities in the country.

On Tuesday, the US State Department imposed a new pack of sanctions against Assads corrupt financiers, officials, and affiliated businesses, according to a statement released.

The statement said that the United States is announcing that 17 further Syrian elements have been designated for sanctions, as part of the Administrations continuing campaign to achieve the goals of the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act of 2019 and, hold Assad and his enablers accountable for their crimes, including the killings at Armanaz and in countless other Syrian communities.

Along with the 14 designations announced by the Department of the Treasury targeting Assads corrupt financiers, officials, and affiliated businesses, the statement continued, the Department of State is issuing three designations against the Fifth Corps of the Syrian Arab Army and Bashar al-Assads personal illicit business network. Specifically, we are designating Fifth Corps commander Milad Jedidfor his involvement in the obstruction, disruption, or prevention of a ceasefire in Syria.

The US also designated Nasreen Ibrahim and Rana Ibrahim, the adult sisters of Assad financier Yasser Ibrahim, because the Ibrahim family acts as a front for Bashar al-Assad and his wife Asma al-Akhras.

While millions of Syrians face hunger, the statement said, the Ibrahims are on a spending spree to expand Assads and Akhrass personal stranglehold on the Syrian economy.

The statement warned that the Administrations designations of, Syrian officials, military commanders, and corrupt business leaders will not cease until the Assad regime and its enablers take irreversible steps to end their campaign of violence against the Syrian people and genuinely implement United Nations Security Council Resolution 2254.

Three years ago yesterday, on Sept. 29, 2017, Assad regime forces, backed by Russia, killed at least 34 Syrians in the town of Armanaz. Since then, thousands of Assads bombs have been dropped on schools, hospitals, and markets across Syria. Too many lives have been lost in Assads futile search for a military conquest over his own people.

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.
TORRANCE, Calif., Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ --



American Honda Honda Acura

Total Cars Trucks Total Cars Trucks Total Cars Trucks Q3 388,433 156,266 232,167 39,664 10,047 29,617 348,769 146,219 202,550

-9.5% -17.6% -3.1% +1.6% +3.9% +0.8% -10.6% -18.8% -3.1%

Total Cars Trucks Total Cars Trucks Total Cars Trucks Sept. 127,058 50,819 76,239 12,941 3,357 9,584 114,117 47,462 66,655

+11.5% +1% +19.9% +16.6% +16.5% +16.6% +11% 0% +20.4%

"September marks a high-water mark for Honda sales this year with double-digit gains and our first month in positive territory since the pandemic began," said Dave Gardner, executive vice president of National Operations at American Honda. "Powered by the strong performance of our Honda and Acura SUV lineups, we've been building momentum throughout the third quarter and early indications from dealers and customers are that the just-released 2021 Acura TLX is a real winner. So we're optimistic for a strong close to 2020."







BRAND REPORT Sales Highlights Notes Honda trucks enjoyed a strong summer in the 3rd quarter of 2020, capped off by a record September with sales increases across the lineup. Civic is on track for its fifth straight year as the retail #1 car in America and its 10th straight year as the retail #1 compact car.

 CR-V set a new September record, climbing 29.6% on total sales of 33,572, while CR-V Hybrid recorded its best month as sales topped 3,200.





 Passport set a new September record, jumping 48.1% on sales of 4,281.





 Pilot, Ridgeline and Odyssey also gained positive momentum in Q3.





 Civic sales were strong, posting its best quarter of 2020, despite limited supplies of the Civic Hatchback.











BRAND REPORT Sales Highlights Notes Acura's stellar SUV lineup continue in a starring role for the brand in September, helping it net a double-digit gain for the month. The all-new 2021 TLX is arriving at dealers now as the quickest, best-handling and most well-appointed sedan in Acura's 35-year history.

 Robust MDX sales of 4,920 brought a 28.4% gain for the month.



 RDX sales gained 6.4% in September, with 4,664 deliveries. RDX was the first core model based on Acura's Precision Crafted Performance DNA. It's now the retail best-selling compact luxury SUV and third-best selling luxury model overall.

 ILX continued to serve as an important gateway to the Acura brand in Q3, posting a 27.7% increase in September.



American Honda Vehicle Sales for September 2020





Month-to-Date Year-to-Date





September

2020 September

2019 DSR** %

Change MoM %

Change September

2020 September

2019 DSR** %

Change YoY %

Change



American Honda Total 127,058 113,925 2.6% 11.5% 980,720 1,206,209 -19.0% -18.7%



Total Car Sales 50,819 50,340 -7.1% 1.0% 410,776 545,984 -25.1% -24.8%



Total Truck Sales 76,239 63,585 10.3% 19.9% 569,944 660,225 -14.0% -13.7%



Honda Total Car Sales 47,462 47,459 -8.0% 0.0% 385,463 515,360 -25.5% -25.2%



Honda Total Truck Sales 66,655 55,368 10.8% 20.4% 499,603 578,036 -13.9% -13.6%



Acura Total Car Sales 3,357 2,881 7.2% 16.5% 25,313 30,624 -17.7% -17.3%



Acura Total Truck Sales 9,584 8,217 7.3% 16.6% 70,341 82,189 -14.8% -14.4%



* Total Domestic Car Sales 47,233 44,797 -3.0% 5.4% 365,657 460,145 -20.9% -20.5%



Domestic Car Honda Division 43,998 41,962 -3.5% 4.9% 341,120 430,320 -21.1% -20.7%







Acura Division 3,235 2,835 5.0% 14.1% 24,537 29,825 -18.1% -17.7%



* Total Domestic Truck Sales 76,237 62,643 12.0% 21.7% 569,302 640,068 -11.4% -11.1%



Domestic Truck Honda Division 66,653 54,426 12.7% 22.5% 498,961 557,879 -10.9% -10.6%







Acura Division 9,584 8,217 7.3% 16.6% 70,341 82,189 -14.8% -14.4%



Total Import Car Sales 3,586 5,543 -40.5% -35.3% 45,119 85,839 -47.7% -47.4%



Import Car Honda Division 3,464 5,497 -42.0% -37.0% 44,343 85,040 -48.1% -47.9%







Acura Division 122 46 144.0% 165.2% 776 799 -3.3% -2.9%



Total Import Truck Sales 2 942 -99.8% -99.8% 642 20,157 -96.8% -96.8%



Import Truck Honda Division 2 942 -99.8% -99.8% 642 20,157 -96.8% -96.8%







Acura Division 0 0 0.0% 0.0% 0 0 0.0% 0.0%

MODEL BREAKOUT BY DIVISION

Honda Division Total 114,117 102,827 2.1% 11.0% 885,066 1,093,396 -19.4% -19.1%



Honda Car ACCORD 20,149 20,326 -8.8% -0.9% 145,291 204,463 -29.2% -28.9%







CIVIC 22,371 22,337 -7.9% 0.2% 200,941 255,484 -21.7% -21.3%







CLARITY 354 548 -40.6% -35.4% 2,598 9,359 -72.4% -72.2%







CR-Z 0 0 0.0% 0.0% 1 2 -50.2% -50.0%







FIT 3,116 2,707 5.9% 15.1% 24,388 27,268 -11.0% -10.6%







INSIGHT 1,472 1,541 -12.1% -4.5% 12,244 18,784 -35.1% -34.8%





Car























Truck CR-V 33,572 25,904 19.2% 29.6% 237,334 280,739 -15.8% -15.5%







HR-V 7,560 7,528 -7.6% 0.4% 61,799 70,314 -12.5% -12.1%







ODYSSEY 7,844 7,457 -3.2% 5.2% 59,691 74,258 -20.0% -19.6%







PASSPORT 4,281 2,890 36.3% 48.1% 27,665 25,123 9.6% 10.1%







PILOT 10,643 9,262 5.7% 14.9% 90,002 103,969 -13.8% -13.4%







RIDGELINE 2,755 2,327 8.9% 18.4% 23,112 23,633 -2.6% -2.2%





Truck





















Acura Division Total 12,941 11,098 7.3% 16.6% 95,654 112,813 -15.6% -15.2%



Acura Car ILX 1,377 1,078 17.5% 27.7% 9,333 10,697 -13.1% -12.8%







NSX 10 16 -42.5% -37.5% 83 202 -59.1% -58.9%







RLX / RL 122 46 144.0% 165.2% 776 799 -3.3% -2.9%







TLX 1,848 1,741 -2.3% 6.1% 15,121 18,926 -20.5% -20.1%





Car























Truck MDX 4,920 3,833 18.1% 28.4% 32,553 37,231 -12.9% -12.6%







RDX 4,664 4,384 -2.1% 6.4% 37,788 44,958 -16.3% -15.9%





Truck





















Selling Days 25 23



230 229







**** Electrified Vehicles 7,161 4,028 63.6% 77.8% 42,874 48,124 -11.3% -10.9%









* Honda and Acura vehicles are made of domestic & global sourced parts



*** Memo line items are included in the respective model total



**** Electrified Vehicles equal: Total sales of Hybrid (FHEV & PHEV), EVs (BEV) and Fuel Cell Vehicles (FCV) from the Honda and Acura brands.



SOURCE American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
(Photo : Photo by Adam Berry/Getty Images) BERLIN, GERMANY - SEPTEMBER 26: A visitor uses a cell phone in front of the Google logo on September 26, 2012 at the official opening party of the Google offices in Berlin, Germany. Although the American company holds 95% of the German search engine market share and already has offices in Hamburg and Munich, its new offices on the prestigious Unter den Linden avenue are its first in the German capital. The Internet giant has been met with opposition in the country recently by the former president's wife, who has sued it based on search results for her name that she considers derogative. The European Commission has planned new data privacy regulations in a country where many residents opted in to have their homes pixeled out when the company introduced its Street View technology.

(Photo : Photo by Leon Neal/Getty Images) LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 09: In this photo illustration, an image of the Google logo is reflected on the eye of a young man on August 09, 2017 in London, England. Founded in 1995 by Sergey Brin and Larry Page, Google now makes hundreds of products used by billions of people across the globe, from YouTube and Android to Smartbox and Google Search.



Google announced a new artificial intelligence that can help you avoid waiting for a long time when a call center agent puts you on hold. "Hold For Me" will be available to Google Pixel 5 and Pixel 4a's owners in the United States.

Also Read: Google Messages 6.7 Solves Inbox Clogging by Deleting OTPs After 24 Hours, Letting You Find Important Messages Easier

It involves AI tools that act as an automatic secretary or assistant when a customer representative places you on hold, allowing you to put down your phone and do other things. The new service will notify you if the agent picks up the phone, giving you enough time to get back on the phone.

Hold For Me will also ask the representative to wait until you get back, preventing them from hanging up the call because of dead air.

"Every business's hold loop is different and simple algorithms can't accurately detect when a customer support representative comes on to the call," said Google's Joseph Cherukara and Duplex Goodman.

"Hold for Me is powered by Google's Duplex technology, which not only recognizes hold music but also understands the difference between a recorded message (like' Hello, thank you for waiting') and a representative on the line," they added.

Hold For Me service will only be available to only a limited number of people

The new service has some limitations since its first rollout is extremely limited. It is because Google only produced 800,000 units of Pixel 5.

The company also hasn't announced any updates yet if it will launch Hold For Me on other devices, and it will only work in the U.S. with toll-free numbers. Before trying a new service, it is also important to take note that it will have Google's Duplex, the controversial technology that was used to offer an increasing amount of telephone-based automation.



Duplex was first launched in 2018, allowing Google users to make reservations and appointments in restaurants automatically, with an AI assistant's help to make the phone call. The technology could effectively mimic a person's "er" and "mmm-hmm" to fill the gaps between words. Because of its ability, some people said that Duplex is deceitful.

For more news updates about Google's new technologies, always keep your tabs open here at TechTimes.

Also Read: Google Promises $1 Billion to Publishers That'll Produce 'Quality' Content

This article is owned by TechTimes,

Written by: Giuliano de Leon.

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Tracy Clarke joins from Standard Chartered plc, where she is CEO, Europe and Americas

LONDON, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Greensill, the leading provider of working capital finance for businesses and employees globally, has strengthened its Board of Directors with the appointment of Tracy Clarke as a Non-Executive Director, effective 1st January, 2021.

Tracy will join the Greensill Group Board next year upon her retirement from Standard Chartered. Tracy is currently CEO, Europe and Americas and Global CEO, Private Banking at Standard Chartered plc, a leading international trade finance bank. She recently announced her retirement, following a distinguished 35 year career with the bank. During this time she held a broad portfolio of leadership, compliance, HR, corporate affairs, brand and marketing roles. She is a Director of TheCityUK and sits on the Board of England Netball. Previously she was a Non-Executive Director of BSkyB for six and a half years, prior to its acquisition by Comcast; and was a Non-Executive Director of satellite-operator Inmarsat until its sale to private equity in December 2019. She holds an MBA from Brunel University.

Maurice Thompson, Chairman of the Board of Greensill, said: "We are delighted to welcome Tracy to Greensill. She brings a wealth of experience, working at the highest levels within a listed global bank specialising in trade finance. She is joining Greensill at an exciting time in our growth trajectory as we continue to accelerate the movement of capital into the real economy, where it is needed most".

Tracy Clarke said: "I am excited to be joining Greensill at this time. I have been impressed by the company's innovative approach to working capital solutions and improving the way that businesses and individuals are paid. I look forward to contributing to the next chapter of Greensill's growth."

About Greensill

Founded in 2011, Greensill is headquartered in London with offices in New York, Frankfurt, Chicago, Miami, Singapore, Bogota, Shenzhen, Abu Dhabi, Johannesburg, Sydney, Warrington and Bundaberg. Greensill provides innovative working capital financing solutions to customers across Europe, North America, Latin America, Middle East, Africa, and Asia - injecting more than $143 billion of financing in 2019 to more than 10 million customers and suppliers across more than 175 countries.

Greensill's Board of Directors

More details on Greensill's Board members can be found here.
Bursts of artillery rang out Thursday in the small town of Martuni in the separatist Nagorny Karabakh region, where shelling has torn through roofs, leaving piles of rubble and shattered glass.

While the town is around 20 kilometres (15 miles) from the front line of the heavy fighting, Azerbaijan's armed forces began bombarding central streets and the local government headquarters with Grad rocket launchers as a team of AFP journalists were talking to residents at the scene.

The shelling injured two French journalists from Le Monde newspaper and two Armenian journalists.

Artak Aloyan, a 54-year-old construction worker, had taken shelter in his small dark cellar with his neighbour, an elderly woman in a headscarf who was sitting on an iron bedstead. Since Sunday he has rushed to take refuge here every time rockets start whizzing in.

"I built this house with my own hands. I will not go anywhere, that's that," he said.

"I will die here in the last battle," he said defiantly to the sound of thuds from the nearby town centre as it was bombarded.

His family has taken shelter in Armenia but Aloyan said he was determined to stay on, while noting that the force of the shelling was intensifying.

"What's just happened, a full-on Grad bombardment, that's the first time," he said.

Aloyan was here in the early 1990s during the first war between Armenia and Azerbaijan over control of the mountainous region, which claimed 30,000 lives.

"Before they would fire and fire and then stay in their positions. Now it's totally different weaponry, large-calibre," he said.

Increasingly heavy fighting has been raging since Sunday in the separatist region, internationally recognised as part of Azerbaijan but where most of the population are Armenians, backed by Yerevan.

- 'This is war' -

In the centre of Martuni, the onslaught of previous days was clearly visible with collapsed roofs on many houses and shattered windows. Some residents were still sleeping in their houses among shards of broken glass.

Story continues

"This is war, but we are going to chase them out. They'll have to raise the white flag to get us to stop," said Armen, a 52-year-old professional driver, holding up the twisted metal casing of a TOS rocket, which was lying in the backyard of his cousin's house, which got damaged in the bombardment.

"They're bombing us all day but we won't hand over Karabakh. We'll die but we won't leave," he vowed.

- 'Barbaric' -

Periodic bursts of shelling were still ringing out, interspersed with dogs barking and crowing roosters.

Just a few streets away from the local government offices, 72-year-old Mavrik Grigoryan showed the hole in the roof of his house made by a shell, leaving a coating of brown dust over his furniture.

He was in the yard of his house when the shell crashed in. The house's white-painted facade was pockmarked with holes from the shrapnel. His family had also left for Armenia, but the pensioner said had decided to stay on, like many other residents.

"They're firing at houses, they're firing on people. It's barbaric," said 38-year-old Karun Abrahamyan, the sales assistant at a grocery store.

Inside, the shelves were still well-stocked and a truck had arrived with fresh deliveries.

She said that she was keeping the shop open "so there's no panic" among residents.

"We don't go anywhere at night. My friend and I stay in the garage. From midnight, we hear the sound of shelling, we don't know what to do," she said.

Since the fighting began on Sunday, the two sides have released only partial death tolls, with a total of 135 military and civilians confirmed killed. The real figure will be much higher, as both sides have claimed to have inflicted heavy casualties on their opponents.

Both Azerbaijan and Armenia deny initiating the hostilities but declare they will fight to the end, while there are growing fears that other international players will join in the conflict.

bur-am/har
The maiden edition of the annual gender equality conference organized by the Kwara State Government is holding virtually today.

A statement by Jamila Bio-Ibrahim, Senior Special Assistant to the Kwara Governor on SDGs, said the conference is to be jointly hosted by Kwara State governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and his wife, Olufolake AbdulRazaq.

Themed Galvanising the Will to Take Actions on Gender Equality and Women Empowerment, the event will feature speakers such as the former Liberian leader Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf; United Nations Deputy Secretary General, Amina Mohammed; and Nigerias Minister of Women Affairs, Pauline Tallen.

The panellists will discuss some of the contentious issues surrounding gender equality and hindering equal opportunity for both men and women in the various cadres of society.

Participants will have an opportunity to ask critical questions on the inclusion of women in politics.

PREMIUM TIMES will bring you live updates of this event scheduled to hold online from 2:00 p.m.

The conference, which is a webinar, would be broadcast live on the state-owned Radio Kwara (Midland FM 99.1) and across Kwara state governments social media handles, as well as on Nigerias only Women Radio (91.7FM).

Zoom Log in details: Webinar ID: 858 2443 8136. Passcode: 581017

Live update:
WASHINGTON  Weve told you how Joe Biden passed President Trump in the money race. Now lets show you how Biden is spending his money  and how Trump isnt, at least over the advertising airwaves.

In the month of September alone, the Biden campaign spent $153 million on TV and radio ads, while the Trump campaign spent $57 million, according to ad-spending data from Advertising Analytics.

Thats nearly a 3-to-1 spending advantage.

Now GOP outside groups  which get less bang for the buck on ad rates than campaigns do  came to Trumps rescue, narrowing Team Bidens overall advantage versus Team Trumps (campaign + outside groups) to $189 million to $127 million.

Still, its remarkable that an incumbent who began raising money so early and who once had such a significant cash-on-hand advantage over Biden is getting outspent here.

And check out the battleground state spending since Labor Day between the two campaigns, per NBCs Ben Kamisar:

So after Labor Day, Biden outspent Trump 2-to-1 in North Carolina and expensive Florida, 3-to-1 in Michigan, and more than 4-to-1 in Pennsylvania.

The only state where the Trump campaign had the spending advantage over Biden is Georgia.

The top ad markets in September

Staying with the ad spending last month, here were the top individual markets in the presidential race from Sept. 1 to Sept. 30, per Advertising Analytics:

Orlando/Daytona Beach FL: $23 million Phoenix: $22 million Tampa/St. Pete, FL: $20 million Miami/Ft. Lauderdale, FL: $15 million Philadelphia: $15 million Charlotte, NC: $14 million Raleigh/Durham, NC: $14 million Detroit: $11 million Pittsburgh: $10 million

So three of the Top 4 markets are in Florida, and two of the Top 9 are in Pennsylvania and North Carolina.

Sounds about right.

Trumps next debate is two weeks away

As Barack Obama found out in 2012, when you struggle in your first debate  or have a negative storyline or two from it  you have to wait until you get your next shot.

The next presidential debate is Oct. 15 in Miami. Thats two weeks from today.

Story continues

And that puts a lot of pressure on Vice President Mike Pence in the Oct. 7 VP debate.

Tweet of the day

Data Download: The numbers you need to know today

7,270,398: The number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in the United States, per the most recent data from NBC News and health officials. (Thats 42,800 more than yesterday morning.)

208,208: The number of deaths in the United States from the virus so far. (Thats 976 more than yesterday morning.)

103.94 million: The number of coronavirus tests that have been administered in the United States so far, according to researchers at The COVID Tracking Project.

73.1 million: How many people tuned in to the first debate, according to Nielsen.

More than a million: The number of users Snapchat says it has helped register to vote.

84 to 10: The Senate vote to pass a stopgap government funding bill.

2020 Vision: Trump goes after Omar

A day after President Trump refused to denounce white supremacy during the presidential debate, and the same day that Trump claimed to not know who the Proud Boys are, the president attacked Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., last night.

And he didnt stop rallygoers from chanting lock her up. Here was Trump:

Now, and what about Omar? Where she gets caught harvesting? What the hell is going on? I hope your U.S. attorney is involved. What, what is going on with Omar? I've been reading these reports for two years about how corrupt and crooked she is [lock her up chants]. Let's get with it, let's get with it.

Those comments came after President Trump railed against the idea of allowing more refugees into the country  Omar came to the U.S. as a refugee from Somalia.

It's the worst thing you've ever seen. But they pledged a 700 percent increase in refugees, 700 percent. Congratulations, Minnesota.

On the campaign trail today

Mike Pence stumps in Iowa.

The Lid: Temperament tantrum

Dont miss the pod from yesterday, when we looked at what the debate revealed about Trumps temperament  and how voters viewed it four years ago.

ICYMI: What else is happening in the world

Homeland Security officials were instructed to make comments sympathetic to Kyle Rittenhouse, according to talking points obtained by NBC News.

Trump is trying to drive a wedge between Biden and progressives. Some leaders on the left say it wont work.

Many of Trumps allies are worried that his debate performance did nothing to change the dynamic of the race.

The GOP is mobilizing an army of poll watchers. Whats not exactly clear is how it will play out.

Chris Wallace called Tuesdays debate a terrible missed opportunity.

Swing state voters hated the debate. Did any change their minds?

Brad Parscale is stepping down from the Trump campaign to get help after an incident with police.
Photo: (Photo : Pexels on Pixabay)

After a suicide attempt, a 46-year-old woman was found floating alive in the sea. She was missing for two years and has lost contact with her family.

The woman, who was later identified as Angelica Gaitan, was seen by two fishermen floating about a mile off a beach from Puerto Colombia in Atlantico last September 26. One of the fishermen, Rolando Visbal, said that Gaitan was very weak and showing signs of hypothermia.

He believes Gaitan has already been floating in the water for eight hours whom they first thought was just a floating log. Once she is in the boat, they tried to speak with her but all she could do was cry. A private person then brought her to the health post where doctors were able to stabilize her despite arriving in a state of shock.

Wanting to end her suffering

Gaitan, who has gone missing for two years, said she tried to commit suicide by jumping into the ocean. She said that she had been a victim of domestic violence for years. Her partner physically abused her beginning with her first pregnancy. The violence continued but she said she could not run away from him because her kids were too young.

Speaking to RCNRadio, Gaitan said that many times she has reported the abuse but the police took him only for 24 hours. Once her husband is back home, he will begin assaulting her again. She endured twenty years of having a toxic relationship, she said. Last September 2018, she said that her ex-partner broke her face and tried to kill her.

Having had enough of the violence and mistreatment, Gaitan managed to escape and wandered the streets for almost six months. She took refuge at a women's shelter and thought that her ordeal has finally ended. However, it was not to be as she continued to get mistreated and bullied in the shelter.

Mistreated in the shelter

Gaitan recalled that one point, that women in the shelter turned the water off while she was taking a shower. They even offered her juice mixed with soapy water. She said that she never got the support she needed to heal.

Depressed, abandoned, and lonely she decided to end her life. "I had no help from anyone," she said, "not even from my family" because her ex-partner took her away from her social circle. A lady lent her money which she used to buy tickets and she "took a bus directly to the sea."

While on the seashore, she said found herself alone and decided to jump into the sea. "I let it take me away," she recalled, "and hope that this nightmare would end soon." She could not remember what happened next as her mind was left empty while she was drifting.

Grateful to God for keeping her alive

According to La Libertad, her family members said that Gaitan left for Ecuador in 2018 and returned in 2019 without the knowledge of her relatives. Her daughter is reportedly raising funds so they can bring her back to Bogota where they live.

Gaitan said she was thankful for the men who rescued her. "Thank God I was alive, and He threw me a life preserver."





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Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 1 : Top Congress leaders in Kerala including state Congress chief and Leader of Opposition Ramesh Chennithala took to the streets here to condemn the detention of former party chief Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra while they were on their way to meet the family of the Hathras gangrape victim on Thursday.

Rahul Gandhi is a Lok Sabha MP from Wayanad.

All the top party leaders walked down the main road in the state capital from the party headquarters, while Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in a statement said it's most unfortunate that the police stopped Rahul from going to Hathras.

"Rahul has the right to go to the place where the gruesome incident took place. What happened there was suppressing of democratic rights and deplorable was the way he was manhandled. This is not acceptable at all," said Vijayan.

Two-time former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said what happened to Rahul was the sounding of the death knell of democracy.

"Rahul was willing to go alone to Hathras, but instead of allowing him, the authorities imposed section 144 and this is nothing but suppressing of democratic rights and the attack on him also took place. What wrong did he do to be taken into custody?" asked Chandy.
(Bloomberg) -- U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi plan to resume discussions Thursday on a new pandemic relief package, racing against the clock to resolve their differences on another round of coronavirus stimulus.

Mnuchin and Pelosi held their first in-person talks since August on Wednesday, yet fell short of reaching an agreement that would bridge the gaps between the administration and Democrats on further aid for the U.S. economy. Both sides face increased pressure to act as more companies announce job cuts, including airlines that had received help under earlier rounds of federal support.

The president has instructed us to come up significantly, so we have come up from the trillion-dollar deal, Mnuchin said on Fox Business on Wednesday evening, adding that he and White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows had met with President Donald Trump before they went to Capitol Hill for negotiations.

Meadows, speaking to reporters as Trump returned from a campaign trip to Minnesota said, I think that the president made a very good and generous offer that addresses most if not all  the vast majority of issues. And yet were still apart on money and the priorities for that allocation. Discussions will continue

House leaders abruptly postponed a planned Wednesday vote on a $2.2 trillion Democrat-only stimulus bill that Pelosi had described as a proffer in negotiations with the White House. The proposal had no chance of getting Republican support, but it would give Democrats running for re-election something to tout to voters if talks failed. Some of them had been pressing Pelosi to hold the vote.

It was put off until Thursday to give the negotiations another shot.

Mnuchin offered Pelosi a maximum of $1.6 trillion, according to people familiar with the proposal. That would include $400 a week in additional unemployment insurance, less than the $600 the Democrats want, the people said, but more than the $300 the White House put forward earlier. The package would also provide $250 billion in assistance to state and local governments, $100 billion than a previous White House offer, but not as much as Democrats say is needed.

Details of Mnuchins offer were reported earlier by Roll Call.

Meadows, on Air Force One, said the Trump administrations counterproposal was certainly above the $1.5 trillion that has been articulated to date, but that if it starts with a two, theres going to be a real problem.

Time is running short for any chance of getting a stimulus package through the House and Senate before the Nov. 3 election. The House is set to leave on a break until the middle of November and the Senate soon to follow.

Mnuchin and Pelosi met for about 90 minutes Wednesday. Both said afterward they had made progress and planned to continue discussions.

We still have more work to do, Mnuchin told reporters, adding, Weve made progress in a lot of areas.

Pelosi, in a statement, said she and Mnuchin were seeking some further clarification on each others positions and that our conversations will continue.

Mnuchin said on CNBC earlier Wednesday that the administrations counteroffer to Pelosi is similar to a plan put forward by a bipartisan group of House members -- which included an escalation in spending as much as $2 trillion if the coronavirus pandemic persists.

Trump has previously indicated he could accept the bipartisan proposal from the Problem Solvers group. Trumps firm and public support will be necessary to get any agreement with Democrats on a stimulus through the Republican-controlled Senate.

But the Problem Solvers plan had previously been rejected by Pelosi as insufficient. The Democratic proposal up for a vote is less than the $3.4 trillion bill the House passed in May, but still more than Republicans have said they could accept. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said Wednesday that it was rife with poison pills that have nothing to do with pandemic relief.

The House is scheduled to leave Washington at the end of this week, though members will be on call to return if there is a stimulus vote. Most senators are also likely to leave town, with the exception of a late-October vote on the nomination of Amy Coney Barrett to the U.S. Supreme Court. They also could be called back if a deal is reached.

Officials in both parties have privately questioned whether the differences could be bridged. The lack of progress in Wednesdays talks dimmed optimism in financial markets about a stimulus deal, as stocks closed well off their highs of the session.

Although Trump and his aides have continued to express confidence that the economy is recovering, the pandemic continues to reverberate for companies and workers. Walt Disney Co. said Tuesday its slashing 28,000 workers in its slumping U.S. resort business. American Airlines Group Inc. said Wednesday night that it would begin furlough 19,000 employees on Thursday, while United Airlines Holdings Inc. is planning to cut about 12,000.

The biggest concern that I have right now is that we just learned that 19,000 people on American Airlines, theres going to be another furlough. Theres probably other airlines in the mix, Meadows said aboard Air Force One on Wednesday night.Weekly data due Thursday are estimated to show filings for U.S. unemployment benefits in regular state programs remain far above pre-virus levels, and Fridays jobs report -- the last before the Nov. 3 election for the White House and Congress -- is expected to reveal that employers added roughly a half-million fewer workers in September than in August.

Private economists have increasingly abandoned predictions for a stimulus deal before the election. JPMorgan Chase & Co. and Goldman Sachs Group Inc. recently cut their forecasts for growth next quarter as a consequence.

While there is a chance a deal could be reached in the next day or so, the odds still seem stacked against additional pre-election fiscal stimulus, Goldman analysts including Alec Phillips wrote in a note Wednesday. The soft deadline for a pre-election deal is tomorrow.

Clash Over State, Local Aid

A key point of disagreement has been the Democrats push for large-scale aid to local and state governments. Their plan released Monday has $436 billion for one year of assistance -- less than a previous demand for $915 billion, which triggered scorn from Trump administration officials who called it a bailout for poorly run states.

The Democratic plan includes new aid for airlines, restaurants and small businesses that wasnt in the original House package but which both sides want as part of any package. It also has more than double the amount they originally proposed for schools.

The bill would provide another round of $1,200 direct relief payments to individuals and $500 per dependent -- less than the $1,200 for dependents Democrats originally proposed.

2020 Bloomberg L.P.
Telemedicine Is Transforming Patient Care in California  With Some New Challenges

When Dr. Andrea Goings launched her mobile medical service, offering at-home doctor visits and virtual consultation sessions via video in 2016 in the Los Angeles area, she did not know that just four years later her business model would be more the norm than not.

Goings, an African American pediatrician, launched her service in West Lake Village, a city about 40 miles northwest of Los Angeles near the Ventura County line. She made house calls to patient homes across the metropolitan area.

Technology has changed the way we approach and experience so many aspects of our lives, so I thought at the time, why not apply it to the work I do, said Goings, who has been able to provide care to patients in various parts of the country while she is temporarily in Ohio caring for her mom as she recovers from a surgery.

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Being able to save busy parents from long waits in the emergency room or long drives to doctor appointments or giving them around-the-clock access to medical advice from the comfort of their home are all reasons clients have appreciated BabyDocHouseCalls.com over the years. Now, there is an added safety component that makes the service convenient, even necessary, for so many.

Goings said because her businesses gave her a head start. Therefore, pivoting to respond to the constraints COVID-19 safety measures have imposed on clinical care, has been easy for her.

Telehealth is a really good option for young adults who have returned to college campuses and dorms, she says.

The California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) says remote consultations like the kind Goingss provides should be not be technically regarded as a distinct service, but an allowable mechanism through which medical practitioners can provide clinical services.

The standard of care is the same whether the patient is seen in-person, by telephone, or through telehealth. As a result, DHCS has strongly encouraged all counties to work with providers to maximize the number of services that can be provided by telephone and telehealth, to minimize community spread of COVID-19, said Ivan Bhardwaj, Section Chief, Community Services Division at the DHCS.

The DHCS has requested that all medical care providers adhere to all federal, state, and local guidelines.

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The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Civil Rights says it will use enforcement discretion and it will not impose penalties for non-compliance with all aspects of the HIPAA rules when healthcare providers use telehealth in good faith during the COVID-19 public health emergency. The DCHS has also relaxed some its rules to accommodate telehealth, expanding platforms allowed to include popular video services such as Apples FaceTime, Facebooks Messenger video chat, Googles Hangouts and Skype.

So far its been great. No problems. Weve been able to keep all of our doctor appointments and do it safely said Joe Bowers, a Ladera Heights resident in Los Angeles County who is retired and writes a column on education for California Black Media. Bowers says, My wife, Margaret and I appreciate the convenience of visiting with our doctors  from the comfort of our home.

For some critical mental health services that are vital to some of the most vulnerable Californians during the pandemic, like Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) for those struggling with opioid use disorder (OUD), DHCS has increased its support.

The Department of Health Care Services, in partnership with The Center at Sierra Health Foundation (The Center), is funding 21 sites to provide telehealth substance use disorder and mental health services for individuals in counties that have been impacted by COVID-19, or in the case of providers, who have experienced trauma as a result of treating individuals with the coronavirus, said Bhardwaj.

DHCS and The Center additionally launched the Behavioral Health Telehealth funding opportunity in 2020 for non-profit behavioral health providers to receive up to $50,000 each for telehealth infrastructure beginning September 1, 2020 through June 30, 2021, he added. Providers applied for telehealth equipment, including laptops, desktops, monitors, electronic health record software licenses, internet subscriptions, cell phones for providers, and telehealth training. Providers that were awarded through this opportunity will receive funding in Fall 2020.

DHCS is also providing Personal Protective Equipment so that facilities that provide in-person mental health services and MAT sessions can continue to do so without interruption.

Californias public awareness campaign titled Choose Change California provides information on opioid use disorder and a list of centers across the state where people misusing opioids or other substances can go for treatment and community-based wraparound services. The campaign is a collaboration operated by Sacramento- and Fresno-based The Center at Sierra Health Foundation and funded through the California Department of Public Health MAT Expansion Project.

DHCS efforts have resulted in helping some medical institutions to survive the pandemic and move closer to their pre-COVID levels of clinical care by transitioning to telehealth services, but they have come with some challenges. For example, the DHCS says some providers do not have enough funding to fully invest in telehealth infrastructure. On the flip side, some patients cannot afford or do not have sufficient broadband services and the required equipment to receive services through telehealth. Other patients, depending on their living situations, do not have adequate privacy to engage in telehealth sessions.

Goings pointed out that there are some obvious limitations to telehealth, too. With some conditions involving trauma or physical injury or pain, there is no way around seeing the patient in-person, she said.

Now, that school has started, its difficult because you dont know if someone has the flu or COVID, she says. I cant give a clearance note, until youve been seen, tested and quarantined, if necessary, she says.
The Proud Boys is a far-right fraternal organization that was founded on the idea that white men and western culture are under siege and champions being 'anti-political correctness' and 'venerating the housewife'.

The group has been known to promote and engage in political violence as they push their pro-gun, anti-feminist, anti-immigration and anti-welfare. The group maintains that it is not racist despite incorporating elements of the 'white genocide' conspiracy theory into its core tenets.

The Proud Boys were classified as an extremist group with ties to white nationalism by the FBI, while the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) lists them as a hate group and the Anti-Defamation League describes them as misogynistic, Islamophobic, transphobic and anti-immigration.

Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube suspended official Proud Boys social media accounts from their platforms for promoting 'hateful content' after the SPLC made its designation in 2018.

The group has a history of street violence targeting left-wing and anti-fascist activists and protest movements. In the past few months Proud Boys have repeatedly dropped in on Black Lives Matter demonstrations taking place across the country, sparking violent clashes on several occasions.

Proud Boys founder Gavin McInnes is quoted as saying in 2015: 'I want violence, I want punching in the face. I'm disappointed in Trump supporters for not punching enough.'

The organization made headlines this week after Donald Trump refused to condemn their associations with white supremacy during his first 2020 presidential debate against Joe Biden on Tuesday night.

The Proud Boys is a far-right fraternal organization that was founded on the idea that white men and western culture are under siege and champions being 'anti-political correctness' and 'venerating the housewife'. Members of the group are seen marching across the Hawthorne Bridge during a rally in Portland, Oregon, on August 17, 2019

FOUNDING:

British-Canadian activist and Vice Media co-founder Gavin McInnes founded the Proud Boys in the months leading up to Donald Trump's election to the presidency in 2016. McInnes started the group as a joke in the far-right Taki's Magazine, adopting its name from the Aladdin song Proud Of Your Boy.

McInnes and the Proud Boys have described the group as a politically incorrect men's club for 'Western chauvinists' and deny affiliations with far-right extremist groups that overtly espouse racist and anti-Semitic views.

In February last year, McInnes sued the Alabama-based SPLC, claiming he was banned from social media platforms and saw his livelihood suffer after the organization branded the Proud Boys as a hate group.

'What they [the SPLC] do is they cast this wide net of "everyone's a Nazi" and they start destroying lives,' McInnes said at a news conference announcing his lawsuit. 'This is a free speech nation, and this is not a free speech organization.'

Richard Cohen, president of the Southern Poverty Law Center, responded to the suit by saying: 'Gavin McInnes has a history of making inflammatory statements about Muslims, women and the transgender community. The fact that he's upset with SPLC tells us that we're doing our job exposing hate and extremism.'

McInnes has since worked to distance the group from the alt-right, describing members as 'Western chauvinists' and denying affiliations with far-right extremist groups that overtly espouse racist and anti-Semitic views.

Enrique Tarrio is currently serving in the role of chairman for the Proud Boys.

British-Canadian activist and Vice Media co-founder Gavin McInnes (pictured) founded the Proud Boys in the months leading up to Donald Trump's election to the presidency in 2016

Enrique Tarrio is currently serving in the role of chairman for the Proud Boys. Tarrio is pictured during an Oregon rally this month

JOINING THE GROUP:

The Proud Boys only admits men into its ranks, as the name suggests. Members share a number of ideologies that include being pro-gun rights, anti-feminism and anti-immigration.

To join, members must make the following pledge: 'I am a proud western chauvinist, I refuse to apologize for creating the modern world.'

Members can be identified by an unofficial uniform of red Make America Great Again caps from the Trump campaign and black and yellow Fred Perry polo shirts. The clothing brand withdrew that specific design from sale in North America this week because it said it does not want to be associated with the Proud Boys.

Proud Boys members can be identified by an unofficial uniform of red Make America Great Again caps from the Trump campaign and black and yellow Fred Perry polo shirts (seen above during a protest in Oregon on September 26). The clothing brand withdrew that design from sale in North America this week because it said it does not want to be associated with the Proud Boys

NOTABLE INCIDENTS:

February 2, 2017: McInnes gives a speech at New York University, after which minor brawls break out between Proud Boys members and anti-facist activists, resulting in charges against 11 people.

April 15, 2017: Proud Boys attend an alt-right rally in Berkeley, California, that was organized by the Liberty Revival Alliance and attended by members of neo-Nazi group Identity Evropa and the Oath Keepers, another right-wing anti-government group. Twenty-one people were arrested after violence broke out between attendees and counter-protesters.

August 11-12, 2017: Proud Boys member Jason Kessler helped organize the Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, where counter-protester Heather Heyer was mowed down and killed by white supremacist James Alex Fields Jr. McInnes later said that he'd kicked Kessler out of the Proud Boys for his involvement in the rally attended by other members.

February 2018: Longtime Trump ally Roger Stone allegedly hired the Proud Boys to serve as his security detail at the annual Republican Dorchester Conference in Salem, Oregon. After the event the Proud Boys posted a video claiming that Stone was undergoing 'low-level initiation' into the group.

October 12, 2019: A group of Proud Boys were filmed beating up anti-facists staging a protest against a speech by McInnes in New York City. Two members - Maxwell Hare, 27, and John Kinsman, 40 - were convicted and sentenced to four years in prison for their involvement in that incident.

June 2020: Proud Boys face off with Black Lives Matter protesters by the Capitol Hill Autonomous Zone in Seattle, Washington.

September 29, 2020: Donald Trump brings up the Proud Boys during his first presidential debate against Joe Biden after moderator Chris Wallace repeatedly asked him to condemn violence by white supremacists and right-wing groups. 'Proud Boys, stand back and stand by!' Trump said. 'But I'll tell you what, somebodys got to do something about Antifa and the left.' The Proud Boys reacted with joy over the shout out, even adding the phrase 'Stand Back, Stand By' to their logo. Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio posted on social media: 'Standing by sir.'

The group has a history of street violence targeting left-wing and anti-fascist activists and protest movements. In the past few months Proud Boys have repeatedly dropped in on Black Lives Matter demonstrations taking place across the country, sparking violent clashes on several occasions. Pictured: A Proud Boy confronts a counter-protester during a rally in Oregon this month

Reporting by Megan Sheets for DailyMail.com
Mining giant BHP has committed close to $800 million into buying more homegrown products and services, and help train up to 3500 new trainees under a five-year program.

The package announced on Thursday will see BHP spend up to $450 million on contracts with Australian Mining, Equipment, Technology and Services (METS) companies, work to source more local products and services and invest in technology pilot projects.

BHP boss Mike Henry says miners must play a role in the post-COVID recovery. Credit:Eamon Gallagher

BHP will also pour $300 million into opening 2500 apprenticeships positions through its FutureFit Academy, and invest a further $30 million in creating 1000 skills development opportunities in regional Australia. The miner will work with the Federal Department of Education Skills and Employment on the regional training program.

BHP's FutureFit Academy, established in March this year, offers trade apprenticeship and maintenance traineeships. Training is delivered in conjunction with CQ University and North Metropolitan TAFE (Perth). The program has enrolled more than 450 people since launch.
There are also claims that Boris Johnson's top aides, including Dominic Cummings, are the targets of the briefing as Downing Street has been pushing heavily for the 'offshoring' policy

Friends of Priti Patel reacted with fury today over leaks claiming she was pushing ideas including processing asylum seekers thousands of miles from Britain.

Reports have suggested the Home Secretary was looking at 'offshoring' refugees arriving in Britain in places including Ascension island and St Helena in the south Atlantic, Moldova in eastern Europe, Morocco and even Papua New Guinea.

Leaks now being investigated also suggested the Home Office had considered putting wave machines and a floating 'wall' in the Channel to stop migrant crossings in small boats and planned to house them on retired ferries.

Although the France-facing wave machine idea has been dismissed the department has consulted maritime industries on the plausibility of a floating barrage between England and the continent, the Financial Times reported. The idea of using ferries to house refugees is also being considered.

But Ms Patel has been left furious at slew of negative briefing about the plans to crack down on abuses, on the day the number of migrants entering the UK in 2020 reached 7,000.

There are also claims that Boris Johnson's top aides, including Dominic Cummings, are the targets of the briefing rather than Ms Patel, as Downing Street has been pushing heavily for the 'offshoring' policy.

Allies of the Home Secretary said she did not believe the negative briefing was coming from her department and sighted their guns on other parts of Government.

'People are having a bit of a free for all,' one said. 'There is a lot of briefing from the Cabinet Office. They have a task force (on offshoring) there.

They pointed out that much of the material was 'damaging to No10'. 'There are people who have spent the last three weeks going after the PM and now are going after his advisers.'

Meanwhile Scottish leader Nicola Sturgeon lashed out at suggestions that some could be housed on Islands around Britain, including off the coast of Scotland.

Home Office Permanent Secretary Matthew Rycroft told MPs today that the Cabinet Office has launched an investigation into the leaks.

Marina with boats on the Solent at East Cowes, Isle of Wight. Migrants who land in Britain could be flown to hostels on the island

Migrants are currently being housed in Napier Barracks in Folkestone, Kent, which has been repurposed for them

New proposals are part of Priti Patel 's over-arching programme to crackdown on the Channel migrant crisis

2020 Channel migrant numbers hit 7,000 At least 7,000 migrants have managed to cross to the UK in small boats this year. Wednesday marked the 100th separate day when people have arrived in small boats in 2020, according to analysis by the PA news agency. Migrants crammed into unsafe dinghies have reached the UK from France on more than one in every three days, data shows. Immigration officials say screening centres are sometimes being 'overwhelmed' by the high numbers while staff remain conscious of the threat of Covid-19. Meanwhile, charities continue to call on the Home Office to provide safe and legal routes for asylum seekers to put an end to the perilous Channel crossings. In 2019, Home Secretary Priti Patel vowed to make such journeys an 'infrequent phenomenon', but UK law enforcement now believe the issue will be here for a while. A handful of people were seen arriving in Dover on Wednesday as migrants attempt the crossing before the weather worsens in autumn and winter. Wednesday marked the 100th separate day of 2020 where migrants have successfully crossed the Dover Strait to the UK in small boats, PA analysis shows. This means that people are successfully making the dangerous crossing more than once every three days. The number of migrants arriving each day is heavily weather-dependent, with fewer than 10 arrivals on some days and hundreds making it to Dover on others. In September alone, nearly 2,000 migrants reached the UK, more than the figure for the entirety of 2019. Immigration staff say the 'sheer volume' of migrant crossings in 2020 is 'unprecedented' and has presented significant challenges. Natalie Elphicke, MP for Dover and Deal, said: 'More needs to be done to bring an end to illegal trafficking and illegal migration. All options must be on the table to close down the route itself. 'The French must stop boats leaving in the first place, boats should be returned to France instead of bringing them into Britain, and we should return people who come in through these illegal routes, no ifs or buts.' Advertisement

Asked at the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) whether he thought the investigation will take account of the timing of the leaks and whether they were politically motivated, he said: 'I'm sure they will look at all relevant factors.'

The wave machine option plan was among 'blue sky' ideas looked at by officials to discourage migrants from trying to cross in small boats - although it was quickly rejected.

The government has been working on ways to overhaul the creaking asylum system and crack down on abuse.

Sources complained that already-dismissed proposals such as creating a processing site on Ascension Island, more than 4,000 miles from the UK, were being leaked by officials who 'don't like the whole concept'.

Ironically, a snap YouGov poll has found the public backed the idea of by a margin of 40 per cent to 35 per cent. However, that proposal has already been ditched.

An ally of the Home Secretary said 'offshoring' was being attacked by people who did not like it.

'It is a perfectly logical idea, but someone who doesn't like the whole concept said 'you can only do it if it happens 4,000 miles away' and leaked that,' they said.

The Isle of Wight proposal is understood to have 'problems', but other islands around the UK - including off the coast of Scotland - and old ferries are being seriously looked at.

'This is still very early days,' one source said.

Ms Sturgeon waded into the row today, saying: 'They can rest assured that any proposal to treat human beings like cattle in a holding pen will be met with the strongest possible opposition from me.'

Shadow home secretary Nick Thomas-Symonds added: 'The Tories are lurching from one inhumane and impractical idea to another.

'The idea of sending people to Ascension Island, creating waves in the English Channel to wash boats back and buying ferries and oil rigs to process asylum claims shows the Government has lost control and all sense of compassion.'

Mr Rycroft faced a grilling on the leaked plans when he faced MPs this morning.

Citing problems with the landing strips in St Helena and Ascension Island, PAC chairwoman Meg Hillier said the idea was 'in the realms of cloud cuckoo land', asking once more 'Can you just confirm whether or not civil service time was actually spent investigating something where you couldn't even land aircraft?'

Mr Rycroft said: 'What I can confirm is that the civil service has been responding to ministers' questions about how other countries deal with what is a global issue - migration.

'We have been leaving no stone unturned in doing that. We've been looking at what a whole host of other countries do in order to bring innovation into our own system. No decisions have been taken.

'No final proposals have been put to ministers or to anyone else.

'This is in the realm of the brainstorming stage of a future policy and, I think as ministers have said in the House, everything is on the table, and so it should be at this stage of the policy-making process.'

Official documents marked 'sensitive' and produced earlier this month, summarise advice from officials at the Foreign Office, which was asked by No10 to 'offer advice on possible options for negotiating an offshore asylum processing facility similar to the Australian model in Papua New Guinea and Nauru'.

Home Office aides have also been ordered to draw up feasibility studies for the hostel-type centres on islands within the British Isles.

It emerged yesterday that officials had previously looked at locating a centre on Ascension Island or St Helena, thousands of miles away in the South Atlantic.

However, using such distant British overseas territories was ruled impractical over costs and logistical problems. Now, proposals for asylum centres on islands closer to home will be drawn up.

Migrants could be processed on disused ferries moored off the coast under the plans being considered.

Another option being considered is buying retired ferries and converting them into asylum-processing centres.

Boris Johnson is keen to deter migrants from making dangerous crossings from France with the proposals.

Meanwhile, The Times has been told that the Home Office held discussions about moving migrants to decommissioned oil platforms in the North Sea while their applications are processed.

However, ministers decided that it was a 'no go' .

According to the Financial Times, other 'blue sky' options discussed include laying booms, barriers or even small boats together in parts of the Channel to stop migrants reaching the shore.

Another option was to have boats with pumps generating waves in a bid to force boats back into French waters.

However, the possibility was rejected amid concerns migrants in already-overladen boats would be capsized.

The plan to move migrants to ships is thought more realistic and is being given serious consideration.

The Home Office's top civil servant Matthew Rycroft told the Public Accounts Committee: 'This is in the realms of a brainstorming stage of a future policy, everything is on the table'

The leaks have sparked another briefing war around Ms Patel - with echoes of the angry row in the run-up to Home Office permanent secretary Philip Rutnam quitting last year and launching an employment tribunal.

One Whitehall source told Playbook: 'There is a rotten core of civil servants who have never gotten over Brexit... and fear the hard rain that is coming. They're the enemy within and will be rooted out.'

Ms Patel is understood to believe the processing centres would deter migrants who hope to settle in UK towns and cities. 'Offshoring is still at the scoping stage and policy is yet to be decided,' said a Government source.

'But we are looking at all options to stop the small boats in the Channel, and offshoring is part of that. In terms of locations you could look at the Shetlands, the Isle of Wight, the Isle of Man, and those sorts of areas.

'There are also lots of little islands up by Scotland.'

The source added: 'This is all fairly down the track and it's not going to be an overnight thing. It will also require changes to legislation. And if we were going to build anything at any of these places we would have to ensure there are appropriate services and provisions for asylum seekers who are sent there.'

The source said any accommodation constructed on an island would not take the form of secure detention centres. 'We do not detain asylum seekers, they are free to come and go,' he said.

It comes after it was revealed last month that a former Second World War barracks in Folkestone, Kent was now being used by the Government to house up to 400 asylum seekers.

Opening the camp was intended to put out a discouraging message to anyone thinking of crossing the Channel illegally. The sparse conditions are very different from the comfortable accommodation complete with a 40 a week spending allowance some migrants have been given on arrival in Britain.

A group of people thought to be migrants are brought into Dover, Kent, by Border Force following a small boat incident in the Channel yesterday

Under a parallel project also being considered by the Government, asylum seekers who arrive in Britain could be flown out to processing centres in Morocco, Moldova or Papua New Guinea

Gibraltar, another British overseas territory, had been ruled out as a location because it is too small, it is understood.

The source added: 'We are looking at what other countries do in terms of offshoring asylum applications and what would be appropriate for us. Government departments including the Foreign Office were asked to look at options.

'Ascension Island was one of the places they came up with. But the Home Secretary does not think that location is feasible.

'Offshoring is something that was previously proposed by Tony Blair's government.' It is unclear how a Home Office asylum facility could be set up on the Isle of Man, which is self-governing.

Separately, leaked documents marked 'sensitive' revealed that Downing Street asked the Foreign Office to consider processing centres in Morocco, Moldova and Papua New Guinea at the direct suggestion of the Prime Minister.

The three countries were specifically 'floated' by No 10, The Guardian reported. However, the Foreign Office identified a number of diplomatic and practical problems with the plan.
For someone such as myself who has never experienced racism, I think its almost impossible to truly comprehend the level of abuse that people of colour endure.

Ive glimpsed it occasionally secondhand, but until it happens to you or someone you love, the depth of damage it causes can never be truly understood.

Prejudice in all forms is wicked, and racial prejudice is perhaps the most wicked and knuckle-dragging form of all.

There is no question that it exists, and that even in a progressive, multicultural society such as Britain it still rears its ugly head.

Far from making me want to take up my cudgel on behalf of the oppressed, his intervention just makes me want to stick pins in my eyes. If it had been Meghan alone, I would have felt differently

There is also no question that it must not be tolerated, either in institutions or in individuals. That, for me  as for most people  is simply non-negotiable.

People should be judged by their actions, not the colour of their skin. Its not just whats right, its what makes sense  after all, hate only breeds more hate.

So I have no problem whatsoever with the principle of the Duke and Duchess of Sussexs latest foray into politics.

In fact, I would go so far as to say its a noble cause. Whats not to like about speaking out against prejudice, and lending support to Black History Month, which each year aims to provide a platform for positive discussion?

And what could possibly be wrong with championing Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) trailblazers, men and women who are leaders in their fields and an example to us all?

Why is it, then, that I find Harry and Meghans intervention so intensely irritating, shallow and self-serving? Could it perhaps be the sight, yet again, of the pair lecturing the world about poverty and disadvantaged lives from the tasteful greige hues of their 11 million mansion in California? Surely if anyone needs to check their privilege, its them. They are pictured above in Ireland in 2018

The answer is: nothing. Nothing at all. So why is it, then, that I find Harry and Meghans intervention so intensely irritating, shallow and self-serving?

Could it perhaps be the sight, yet again, of the pair lecturing the world about poverty and disadvantaged lives from the tasteful greige hues of their 11 million mansion in California? Surely if anyone needs to check their privilege, its them.

Or could it be the way they blithely dismiss Britain, one of the most tolerant liberal democracies on the planet, as suffering from structural racism?

Or maybe its just the fact that I have finally grown weary of being told what to do and think by a Prince who, far from demonstrating a desire to fight to make Britain a better place and stand up for the things he claims so passionately to believe in, has chosen to reject the nation that gave him every conceivable advantage in favour of one that offers him the opportunity to capitalise on his royal status to the tune of many millions.

A once honourable man who stood side by side with his fellow citizens but who, of late, seems to run as fast as he can from the slightest challenge; who cannot accept any divergence from his own point of view; who behaves like a petulant child when challenged; and who refuses to accept any compromise when it comes to his not inconsiderable demands.

Someone who wants to cast himself as the champion of the disadvantaged and forgotten, a man of the people, a brave warrior for the truth  but one who exiles himself in glorious splendour in one of the most exclusive gated communities in one of the most rarefied parts of America.

Far from making me want to take up my cudgel on behalf of the oppressed, his intervention just makes me want to stick pins in my eyes.

If it had been Meghan alone, I would have felt differently. After all, she is a woman of colour. She has actual experience of these things. So she has every right to speak out about them.

Harry, by contrast, is driven by the evangelical fervour of the repentant sinner. Because, lets not forget, this is a person who not so long ago thought it was funny to dress up as a Nazi.

I am happy for his sake, of course, that he has experienced such a positive awakening. But does he have to shove it down all our throats all of the time?

Yet what irritates me most about this latest intervention is that, in their eagerness to show support for this most fashionable of causes, theyve failed to acknowledge the wider suffering happening across Britain today: coronavirus, which affects every one of us, regardless of colour.

There was not even a whisper of concern or empathy for those whose lives and livelihoods have been devastated by this awful pandemic (one which, of course, has not troubled either of them the slightest in their ivory tower).

I can understand it from Meghan. After all, she never really took to us. But for Harry to demonstrate such thoughtlessness with respect to his fellow countrymen and women is deeply sad.

So, yes, Black History Month is an important event in the cultural calendar. And, yes, we all of us recognise the importance of building a more equal and fair society.

But if we want help and inspiration as to how to overcome such hardships, I think we can do rather better than a Prince who has turned his back on his country, his Queen and his family  and who is so busy polishing his halo that all he can seem to see is his own reflection.
TORONTO, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ - Russel Metals Inc. (TSX: RUS) announces the appointment of Roger D. Paiva to the Company's Board of Directors.

Mr. Paiva holds a BSc. in mechanical engineering and is a seasoned steel manufacturing executive who has led strategy, operations and safety performance for plant facilities in North and South America during his nearly 40-year career with Gerdau Steel Company.

Russel's Board Chair Jim Dinning commented, "We welcome Roger Paiva to the Company. Roger brings extensive steel business experience to Russel's board. His depth of knowledge in our business will further strengthen our deliberations, benefiting shareholders and stakeholders alike. We're delighted Roger has agreed to join our company and we look forward to his contributions."

About Russel Metals

Russel Metals is one of the largest metals distribution companies in North America. It carries on business in three metals distribution segments: metals service centers, energy products and steel distributors. Its network of metals service centers carries an extensive line of metal products in a wide range of sizes, shapes and specifications, including carbon hot rolled and cold finished steel, pipe and tubular products, stainless steel, aluminum and other non-ferrous specialty metals. Its energy products operations carry a specialized product line focused on the needs of energy industry customers. Its steel distributors operations act as master distributors selling steel in large volumes to other steel service centers and large equipment manufacturers mainly on an "as is" basis.

If you would like to unsubscribe from receiving Press Releases, you may do so by emailing [email protected]; or by calling our Investor Relations Line: 905-816-5178.

SOURCE Russel Metals Inc.

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Andreas Gebert/picture-alliance/dpa/AP Images From left: former Vice President Joe Biden and Cindy McCain in 2018

Cindy McCain is taking her recent endorsement of longtime friend Joe Biden one step further, as the Biden campaign announced this week she'll be joining the candidate's transition team as an adviser.

This transition is like no other, preparing amid the backdrop of a global health crisis and struggling economy, former Sen. Ted Kaufman, the transition co-chair, said in a statement on Monday, which makes Mrs. McCains experience as a business woman, philanthropist and longtime advocate for issues impacting women and children all the more valuable."

The Wall Street Journal first reported the news Monday.

The widow of late Arizona Sen. John McCain, the 2008 Republican presidential nominee, Cindy last week endorsed Biden, 77, reflecting in part on his enduring friendship with her late husband and the McCain family.

Joe and I don't always agree on the issues, and I know he and John certainly had some passionate arguments, but he is a good and honest man, Cindy, 66, tweeted. He will lead us with dignity."

She is among a growing minority of GOP voices who have spoken out in favor of Biden ahead of the Nov. 3 election and, as the campaign highlighted, is the second Republican to join as a Biden transition adviser in preparation for his possible victory.

RELATED: Meghan McCain Welcomes Baby Girl with Husband Ben Domenech: 'Happy and Healthy'

William Thomas Cain/Getty Sen. John McCain (left) and former Vice President Joe Biden together in October 2017

Lou Rocco/Getty Images From left: former Vice President Joe Biden and Meghan McCain

Fellow Republican Bob McDonald, the former chief executive of Procter & Gamble, is also advising Biden's transition prep, which features 16 advisory board members. McDonald served in the Obama administration as the secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Story continues

Other members of Biden's transition team include former Democratic presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg as well as some names initially included on Biden's shortlist for running mates, such as New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and former U.N. Ambassador Susan Rice.

Former Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates and Rep. Cedric Richmond of Louisiana are also among the others set to advise Biden on his potential transition, according to the Journal.

Cindy's support for Biden comes after President Donald Trump, 74, has repeatedly attacked her late husband, a Trump rival, even after his death in 2018  including complaining about flags being lowered to half-mast after he died from brain cancer, according to a report by The Atlantic, which the White House disputed.

(Trump also denied calling Sen. McCain a loser," despite retweeting the insult in 2015.)

RELATED: Cindy and Meghan McCain Pay Tribute to John McCain on What Would've Been His 84th Birthday

My husband John lived by a code: country first. We are Republicans, yes, but Americans foremost. There's only one candidate in this race who stands up for our values as a nation, and that is @JoeBiden.  Cindy McCain (@cindymccain) September 22, 2020

The same Atlantic report included anonymous sources describing Trump disparaging service members in general, referring to those killed in action as losers and suckers.

This never stops being incredibly painful, triggering, and it rips off new layers of grief that wreak havoc on my life, Meghan McCain, the McCains' 35-year-old daughter and a co-host on The View, said at the time.

Roughly three weeks later, Biden received Cindy's official endorsement.

My husband John lived by a code: country first. We are Republicans, yes, but Americans foremost," she wrote last week. There's only one candidate in this race who stands up for our values as a nation, and that is [Biden]."

Trump responded on Twitter with characteristic venom: "I hardly know Cindy McCain other than having put her on a Committee at her husbands request. Joe Biden was John McCains lapdog. So many BAD decisions on Endless Wars & the V.A., which I brought from a horror show to HIGH APPROVAL. Never a fan of John. Cindy can have Sleepy Joe!"
San Francisco, Oct 1 : Alphabet and Google CEO Sundar Pichai on Thursday announced its biggest $1 billion investment for the future of news in partnerships with news publishers that would pay them to create and curate high-quality content for quality online news experience.

Pichai launched Google News Showcase that features the editorial curation of award-winning newsrooms to give readers more insight on the stories that matter, and in the process, helps publishers develop deeper relationships with their audiences.

"We've signed partnerships for News Showcase with nearly 200 leading publications across Germany, Brazil, Argentina, Canada, the UK and Australia. The number of news publications will grow as we work to expand News Showcase to other countries including India, Belgium and the Netherlands," Pichai said in a blog post.

Google News Showcase will start rolling out in Germany and Brazil from Thursday and come to other countries where local frameworks support these partnerships.

News Showcase is made up of story panels that will appear initially in Google News on Android.

The product will launch soon on Google News on iOS, and will come to Google Discover and Search in the future.

"Other components like video, audio and daily briefings will come next," Pichai said.

The $1 billion investment is another step from Google to support the news industry.

The publications include award-winning national titles like Der Spiegel, Stern, Die Zeit, Folha de S.Paulo, Band and Infobae, alongside regionally and locally significant publications such as El Litoral, GZH, WAZ and SooToday.

The company said from sending 24 billion visits to news websites globally every month to the Google News Initiative's (GNI) $300 million commitment, including emergency funding for local publishers globally to help with the impact of Covid-19, it is helping small and medium-sized publishers accelerate their business growth.

Google News Showcase, said Pichai, is distinct from other news products "because it leans on the editorial choices individual publishers make about which stories to show readers and how to present them".

Google News Showcase builds on the existing news licensing programme, which is paying publishers for quality journalism and other news-related efforts like Subscribe with Google, Web Stories and audio news.

"Both Google News Showcase and our financial investment - which will extend beyond the initial three years - are focused on contributing to the overall sustainability of our news partners around the world," Pichai said, adding that the company aims to play its part by helping journalism in the 21st century not just survive, but thrive.

"I have always valued quality journalism and believed that a vibrant news industry is critical to a functioning democratic society," he said.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
BOISE  With the average daily coronavirus caseload going up and hospital numbers painting an unpleasant picture, Gov. Brad Little announced Thursday that Idaho once again will remain in Stage 4 of the states pandemic reopening plan  the eighth time the state has fallen short of advancing.

Littles announcement came as Idahos seven-day moving average of new confirmed cases reached 485.4 on Wednesday night  after more than 500 confirmed cases were added in the daily total. The average has increased for 15 straight days. Multiple schools requested testing to help keep outbreaks at bay, and cities and towns that are home to colleges have reported spikes in cases.

The criteria for moving out of Stage 4 includes looking at intensive care unit admissions, which recent data show are not decreasing fast enough in Idaho. The criteria states Idaho must have less than 25 ICU admissions per day on average over the prior 14-day period.

For Sept. 16-29, Idaho had an average of 42.2 COVID-19 patients in ICU per day.

Among the metrics, one that caused the state to remain in Stage 4 was daily hospital admissions. The states goal of averaging eight per day was not met, with the average being well above 20 over the past week.

Little said Thursday that the state failed to meet its marks on desired metrics for new reported cases and percentage of positive tests as well.

Dr. Christine Hahn, state epidemiologist for the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, said officials are concerned with the recent rise in cases, especially given the dropping temperatures and having more people back in classrooms.

Little also discussed how state officials are already taking steps to plan for the distribution of a coronavirus vaccine  once there is one and it is made widely available.

Here in Idaho, we have been planning for months for the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine and we will remain focused on making sure Idaho is ready when the initial supply becomes available, Little said.

Little said he will advise the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare to convene a new vaccine advisory committee to provide direction. He said he has no intention of mandating vaccinations and is confident families will make the right choice.

But Idaho already has pretty loose laws around vaccinations. The state doesnt require a doctor to sign off on a medical exemption for not vaccinating a child attending public schools. Parents only submit a form saying they chose not to vaccinate.

Idaho is one of 15 states that allow vaccine exemptions based on a personal belief  not just for medical reasons or religious beliefs.

Ada County is the only county to remain in Stage 3, per the order of Central District Health. But the county has reopened bars, with precautions in place. Large events and gatherings are still prohibited, and masks are mandated.

Multiple cities and counties have mask mandates in place, while in some places they are only recommended. Little has repeatedly declined to implement a statewide mask mandate.

The number of coronavirus cases in the Magic Valley region doubled over the past four weeks, South Central Public Health District officials announced Tuesday. In the last week of August, the eight-county health district based in Twin Falls reported 187 new coronavirus cases. Last week, the district reported 471 new cases.

Eastern Idaho also is seeing an uptick in cases per capita in several counties.

Idaho had recorded 469 deaths due to COVID-19 as of Wednesday night and 38,415 confirmed cases since the virus reached Idaho.

Idaho state inmates, housed in Idaho Department of Correction prisons or at contracted prisons in Texas and Arizona, had seen more than 1,800 infections as of Tuesday. Most of the inmates are reported to have recovered, but two died.

Multiple jails, including in Ada and Twin Falls counties, have also seen outbreaks.

Most jails, prisons and long-term care facilities still have restrictions on visitation.

Stage 4 and reopening Idaho

One of the first issues Little discussed during Wednesday press conference was clarifying misconceptions regarding Idahos emergency order issued in light of the pandemic.

He stressed that the coronavirus emergency declaration order allows Idaho to access additional state and federal resources, just like an emergency order issued in light of a fire, flood or other disaster. The order also communicates to the public that the state is indeed in a state of emergency. All 49 other states have an emergency order in place, Little said.

Under Stage 4, there are no restrictions on businesses and most other activities, Little said, only recommendations for businesses and residents to follow.

Little added that the Stage 4 restrictions or emergency order do not infringe on Idahoans constitutional rights.

I would never do that, Little said.

He went on to say that local governments were able to implement restrictions or mandates long before the pandemic, and the emergency order did not change that in any way the past few months.

Schools in a pandemic

During the press conference, Little announced that Idaho schools will receive 530,000 rapid antigen tests to be distributed, with the tests being delivered to the state within the next three months. A shipment of 35,000 tests was shipped to Idaho on Thursday, he said.

School districts have started classes under various setups  some with in-person learning, some in phases with hybrid schedules and some all online. Many, however, have slowly but surely had to fight off cases.

Before school started, Little made it clear that he wanted to see all Idaho schools open as soon as possible for in-person learning.

Some schools have struggled with testing, and in Emmett, at least 134 students could be in quarantine for two weeks, that district reported Tuesday.

Boise State University and the University of Idaho have reported outbreaks in the student population and temporary closures on different parts of their campuses. BYU-Idaho in Rexburg said it might have to shut down campus.

Hahn said that a growing number of cases in the state are in the 18-29 age group, especially in the younger half of that group. She said universities are doing a good job of telling students to stay safe and prevent spread, but acknowledged that its hard to police those rules.

I think its the best we can do right now is through education, Hahn said. It has to be willing change.

Unemployment

As of this week, few businesses were forced to be closed because of the pandemic, although requirements to open limit how many customers many places may have at one time.

Idahos unemployment claims have decreased in recent weeks, according to the Idaho Department of Labor. The four-week moving average for continued claims fell 9%, from 12,416 for the week ending Sept. 19 to 11,284 for the week ending Sept. 26.

The department reportedly paid out $7.1 million in unemployment benefits the week ending Sept. 26, down from $7.8 million for the week ending Sept. 19.

Total benefit payments to laid-off Idahoans attributed to COVID-19 reached $876 million. Regular state unemployment insurance benefits made up $200 million of the total, according to the Department of Labor.
The United States, Russia and France called for an immediate cease-fire as the ongoing conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia over the mainly Armenian enclave of Nagorno-Karabakh entered its fifth day. The statement, signed by President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin and French President Emmanuel Macron, called on the warring parties to resume negotiations for a peaceful resolution of the 32-year-old dispute over the mountainous area that Azerbaijan and Armenia both claim.

The three countries calling for a cease-fire are permanent members of the Minsk group established after the war first erupted between the former Soviet states in 1988, leaving Armenia in control of Nagorno-Karabakh and large swathes of Azerbaijani territory around it. Turkey backed Azerbaijan, while Iran helped Armenia. Russia played on both pitches, as it typically does in its former Soviet dominions to render itself indispensable.

Both Azerbaijan and Turkey have rebuffed the Minsk groups calls for a cease-fire and vowed to fight on. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan apparently agrees that the war must go on. He said the Minsk groups calls for a cease-fire were unacceptable, and if they were really seeking a solution, then Armenia had to withdraw from all the territories it had occupied and allow hundreds of thousands of Azerbaijanis displaced by the war to return.

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian has ruled out any withdrawal, saying Nagorno-Karabakh is an existential matter for his nation of 3 million.

Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev says the war wont end until Azerbaijan regains full control over the enclave and surrounding territories. And Erdogan is egging him on.

Russia revealed? Turkey is providing military support to Azerbaijan and, in an unusual twist, finds itself on the same side as Israel, which is also reportedly aiding Azerbaijan. The oil-rich republic in the southern Caucasus serves as a critical base for Israeli surveillance of Iran.

Russias stance remains a question of fierce debate. Todays joint statement suggests, however, that contrary to speculation, it has no plans to crash the Minsk process or manage the conflict and its outcome in tandem with Turkey instead.

The Kremlin has aired its discomfort with Erdogans bellicose rhetoric in support of Azerbaijan.

Its also irked by reports that Syrian rebel mercenaries with a record of abuses have been flown in to fight on the side of Azerbaijani forces. Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu and his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, held a phone call today to discuss the latest developments in Nagorno-Karabakh. No details were given.

Enter Macron: Frances President Emmanuel Macron, who has been pushing back against Turkish muscle-flexing in the Eastern Mediterranean and Libya, upped the ante today, blaming Azerbaijan for the fiercest fighting over Nagorno-Karabakh since 1994.

Macron said Azerbaijan had fired the first missiles triggering hostilities on Sunday. In a further poke in Erdogans eye, Macron said France had concrete information that Syrian jihadis had been ferried via the southern city of Gaziantep on the Turkish-Syrian border, and that this represented a grave turn of events that would be raised during a summit of EU leaders that kicked off in Brussels today.

What's next? The EU bloc will be weighing what if any sanctions to impose on Turkey over its dispute with EU members Greece and Cyprus over exploiting the hydrocarbon wealth of the Eastern Mediterranean. Macron has been pushing for unspecified sanctions. Austrias right-wing conservative chancellor, Sebastian Kurz, is demanding that red lines be finally set up to rein in Erdogan. He says talks for Turkeys full membership of the EU have to end and sanctions must be imposed.

Any such moves would bring Turkeys already tottering economy to its knees.

Fearing chaos, Germany, which has an estimated 3 million Turkish origin people living within its borders, is opposed to harsh measures against Turkey. Its been mediating between Turkey and Greece. Today the two countries announced they had established a deconfliction mechanism following a series of talks at NATO headquarters in Brussels. It remains to be seen what fresh crises lie in store as the war in Nagorno-Karabakh escalates and the death toll on both sides rises.

Know more: For background on the Nagorno-Karabakh, read the latest by Amberin Zaman. For the balance of forces in the war, read military expert Metin Gurcan's story.
The fans of the Indian Premier League (IPL) were in for a treat on Wednesday as Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan was spotted in the stands during Kolkata Knight Riders match at Dubai International Stadium. The KKR co-owner watched his players bat against Rajasthan Royals. He was accompanied by his elder son Aryan Khan.

Shah Rukhs stylish long hair with a bandana caught the eye of Twitterati as they were thrilled to see the actor on their television screen. A video of Shah Rukh Khan at the ground was also shared on Twitter by the official handle of IPL. King Khan is in the house, cheering for his lads, read the caption of the video. Many fans of the actor also posted photos of him on social media.

Here are some of the reactions by SRKs fans:

Shah Rukh Khan still the most sought after man in the WORLD.Wherever he sets his foot, it becomes his territory  BRIJWA SRK FAN (@BrijwaSRKman) September 30, 2020

Now it feels like IPL pic.twitter.com/OYnXXZeYAE Pratap Mishra (@pratmist) September 30, 2020

Later, SRK retweeted Sachin Tendulkars post after KKRs clinical victory over RR. He wrote, Now anything I would say about @KKRiders & the boys will mean nothing. The great man has spoken. Just so happy to see all in the team propping up the youngsters & making it count. Love you boys lots of pyaar from a little afar," Shah Rukh Khan tweeted.

Now anything I would say about @KKRiders & the boys will mean nothing. The great man has spoken. Just so happy to see all in the team propping up the youngsters & making it count. Love you boys lots of pyaar from a little afar https://t.co/T8irMiHJi8 Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) September 30, 2020

KKR battled their way to 174 for six after being sent in to bat first by RR captain Steve Smith. For KKR, Shubamn Gill top-scored with 47 off 34 balls, giving a great start to the two-time champions.
WASHINGTON, Sept. 30, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- NASA astronaut Chris Cassidy, currently aboard the International Space Station, will answer questions posed by high school students from across the nation this week. The educational downlink event will air live at 12:25 p.m. EDT Friday, Oct. 2, on NASA Television and the agency's website.

Cassidy will answer prerecorded questions selected from high school students participating in the Society for Science & the Public's Science News in High Schools program, which provides access to Science News magazine to more than 5,000 schools nationwide. The society, which seeks to expand scientific literacy and research through STEM competitions, journalism, outreach, and equity programs, is coordinating the question and answer session. Participating students will use news articles and related educational resources to learn about collaborative research studies completed by astronauts on the space station to prepare questions for the event.

Linking students directly to astronauts aboard the space station provides unique, authentic experiences designed to enhance student learning, performance, and interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Astronauts living in space on the orbiting laboratory communicate with NASA's Mission Control Center in Houston 24 hours a day through the Space Network's Tracking and Data Relay Satellites (TDRS).

For nearly 20 years, astronauts have continuously lived and worked on the space station, testing technologies, performing science and developing the skills needed to explore farther from Earth. Through NASA's Artemis program, the agency will send astronauts to the Moon in 2024, with eventual human exploration of Mars. Inspiring the next generation of explorers  the Artemis Generation  ensures America will continue to lead in space exploration and discovery.

Follow America's Moon to Mars exploration at:

https://www.nasa.gov/topics/moon-to-mars

Follow NASA astronauts on social media at:

https://www.twitter.com/NASA_astronauts

See videos and lesson plans highlighting research on the International Space Station at:

https://www.nasa.gov/stemonstation

SOURCE NASA

Related Links

https://www.nasa.gov


Although Will Smith turned down the opportunity to star in The Matrix, his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, was eager to participate in the movie. Although she did not get the role of Trinity, she happily joined the sequels as Niobe. However, if it wasnt for this one person, she never could have starred in either film.

The Matrix Reloaded cast: Laurence Fishburne, Jada Pinkett Smith, Hugo Weaving, Carrie-Anne Moss and Keanu Reeves | KMazur/WireImage

Jada Pinkett Smith auditioned for the role of Trinity in The Matrix

When Pinkett Smith auditioned for the role of Trinity in The Matrix, she made a lasting impression on the writers and directors. However, she did not get the part because she and Keanu Reeves lacked chemistry together.

Keanu and I didnt, uh, really click, Pinkett Smith said on The Howard Stern Show. We just didnt have any chemistry, he and I.

Jada Pinkett Smith | Jean Baptiste Lacroix/WireImage

RELATED: Jada Pinkett Smith Reveals Why She Keeps Her Hair Short  I Was Literally Shaking With Fear

However, when the directors, The Wachowskis, began writing The Matrix sequels, they thought about how much they loved Pinkett Smith. They created the role of Niobe specifically for her in The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions.

I do wish [I had been cast as Trinity], but I look at Carrie-Anne [Moss], and I just go, shes freaking amazing, Pinkett Smith continued. Theres no way in the world I would have brought that.

Pinkett Smith lied to the directors to take on the role of Niobe

When the directors called Pinkett Smith to offer her the role in The Matrix Reloaded, she was pregnant with her daughter, Willow Smith. Filming for the movie was set to begin at the end of November, but the baby was due on Nov. 11.

And Ill tell you a secret. I lied, the actor told Vanity Fair. Because Willow was supposed to be due November 11, but I told them, No worries, the babys coming in October, so by the time the end of November comes, Im going to be ready.'

RELATED: Willow Smith Shares Her Opinion About Will and Jada Pinkett Smith Discussing Her Affair  Thats Real Love

Luckily, Willow came early, and she quickly got herself ready for the films.

Let me tell you, my baby girl came on October 31st, she continued. Do you know mama was ready? I was ready. End of November to start The Matrix. Pushed that baby out, got in the gym, and got it together.

Smith could not have starred in The Matrix Reloaded without her mother

During a Facebook Watch Red Table Talk, Pinkett Smith admitted that she could never have filmed the movies without Adrienne Norris-Banfield. The actor became so much closer to her mother when she had Jaden and Willow Smith.

Adrienne Banfield-Jones, Jada Pinkett Smith, Willow Smith, and Will Smith | Gilbert Carrasquillo/FilmMagic

RELATED: Jada Pinkett Smith Knew the Exact Night Both Jaden and Trey Lost Their Virginity

There was so much healing that happened between you and I through [my children] because I got to see your nurturing side, Pinkett Smith told her mother during the talk. I got to see sacrifices that you were making for them that werent the same kind of sacrifices you made for me, how you were like Im going. Ill be with you in Australia. I know its going to be long. My husband is not happy, but Im gonna be there.'

The actor told her mother and her fans that Niobe might not have been in The Matrix sequels at all if it wasnt Norris-Banfield.

That helped me so much because if I didnt have you, I wouldnt have been able to do the Matrix, she continued. I wouldnt be able to keep working. You went with me everywhere. Because of you, I was able to have my children with me, so thank you.
SPRINGFIELD  Crime in Massachusetts cities and towns declined in 2019 at a rate faster than in the United States overall, according to the FBIs annual survey of state and local law enforcement agencies.

The FBIs Uniform Crime Report shows crime is on the decline nationwide according to its two major categories, crimes involving violence and property crimes.

The the report shows violent crime in 2019 declined by 1% from the year before, and property crimes declined by 4.5%.

It is the third year in a row where the amount of violent crime has decreased nationwide. It went down 3.5% in 2018 and 0.7% in 2017.

In Massachusetts, violent crime declined by 3.6% and property crimes declined by 7.2%. In Springfield, violent crime was down by 9% and property crimes were down 2%

Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno and Police Commissioner Cheryl C. Clapprood said the decline in both categories reflects the work of the members of the police department to serve the city.

Our SPD has made some significant gains to address crime, Sarno said in a statement.

The results from this report (show) that our strategic approach is working, Sarno said.

Clapprood said it attests to the women and men of the department doing their best and to our relationship to the community.

Speaking generally about the FBI data, Creaig Dunton, an associate professor of criminal justice at Western New England University, said they should be taken with a pinch of salt.

The Uniform Crime Report relies on local police departments sending in their data, and some departments are better at that than others, he said.

It depends on the police being honest, he said.

For example, if a local police department were to categorize a bunch of aggravated assaults as simple assaults, its violent crime numbers would go down.

Its hard for me not to be cynical, Dunton said.

The report has been compiled each year since 1930, using data from state, local, tribal and federal law enforcement agencies across the country. This years report is based on information from 16,554 agencies.

Nationwide, the number of homicides increased by 0.3% and aggravated assaults by 1.3%. These increases were offset by declines of 2.7% in the number of reported rapes and 7.2% in robberies, leading to an overall decline in the violent crime rate.

Across Massachusetts, homicides increased last year by 12%, from 138 to 152, but the numbers in other violent categories declined. Reported rapes declined by 10.1%, robberies by 11.5% and aggravated assaults by just under 1%.

The decrease in violent crime puts Massachusetts in the middle of the pack among the six New England states. Rhode Island (0.7%), Maine (3.2%) and Vermont (9.3%) showed increases, while Connecticut (12.5%) and New Hampshire (13.7%) had double-digit declines.

Of the largest cities in Massachusetts, Lynn, population 94,000, showed the largest decrease in violent crime at 17%, while Lowell showed the largest increase at 12%.

Ranked from biggest decrease to biggest increase, the list is as follows:

Lynn -17%

Brockton -10%

Springfield -9%

Worcester -8%

Boston -2%

Cambridge -1%

New Bedford +4%

Quincy +7%

Lowell +12%

Lynn reported its violent crimes decreased by 98 cases to 465 for the year. The number of homicides nearly tripled from three to eight, but the city saw double-digit decreases in reported sexual assaults, robberies and aggravated assaults that contributed to the decline.

Boston, by virtue of being nearly four times bigger than the next largest city in Massachusetts, has the greatest amount of violent crime of any locality in the state. It has the most murders, robberies and larcenies each year.

According to the FBIs report, the number of homicides in Boston fell from 56 to 42, a decrease of 25%. Boston also saw its reported rapes decline by 17% and robberies by 11%. The only category showing an increase was aggravated assaults, which jumped by 4%.

When the violent crime numbers for the states largest cities are converted into a per-capita crime rate  that is, the number of crimes divided by the population and then multiplied by 100,000  Boston slides to the middle of the pack, while Springfield is unchallenged at the top of the list.

The list of cities with the highest violent crime rates for every 100,000 people is as follows:

Springfield (population 154,306): 905

Brockton (95,287): 821

New Bedford (94,613): 640

Worcester (184,945): 630

Boston (698,941): 607

Lynn (94,113): 492

Quincy (94,113): 398

Lowell (111,423): 363

Cambridge (119,908): 279

In Worcester, the states second-largest city with 184,900 residents, violent crime was down 8% and property crimes were down 5%.

There were 45 fewer aggravated assaults, 61 fewer robberies and nine fewer rapes, for declines of 5%, 21% and 18%, respectively. Homicides increased by an eye-opening 225%, from four in 2018 to 13 last year.

Springfields 9% reduction in violent crime is basically a reversal from 2018, when it rose by 12%

The number of homicides increased from 19 to 20, and the number of reported aggravated assaults was basically the same, an increase of two cases to 938 for the year.

Robberies declined by 25% from 475 to 358, and rapes declined by 23 cases to 81 for the year, or by 22%

However, the decline in the number of rapes last year follows a steep increase the year before. In 2018, the number of reported rapes increased by 31 to 104, a 42% increase.

At the time, officials attributed the increase to a greater awareness of sexual assault and a greater willingness of survivors to report it as a result of the #MeToo movement.

The 2019 figure is comparable with amounts from between 2013 and 2016 when there were between 81 and 89 cases reported per year.

Taking a long view, Springfields numbers indicate what seem to be positive trends.

The amount of violent and property crime reported in 2019 is around half of what it was 15 years ago.

In 2005, there were 2,692 violent crimes reported and 8,703 property crimes. In 2019, violent crimes totaled 1,397, and property crimes 4,005.

With the exception of homicides, which have fluctuated from year to year between 13 and 22, Springfield in each crime category is showing declines over the past 15 years. In some categories, the decline is quite pronounced.

Aggravated assaults are down 47%, robberies are down 53%, burglaries are down 77%, larcenies 63% and car thefts 80%.

Clapprood said the police department has made inroads over the last decade in working with people in the neighborhoods, and those relationships are paying off.

She said when she goes to neighborhood meetings expecting to field questions about violent crime or property crime, people instead ask about quality of life issues.

They want to talk about what can be done about traffic, or trash on their street, or abandoned cars, she said.

Those are the types of crime not covered in the Uniform Crime Report, but they are big concerns at the neighborhood level, she said.

Addressing neighborhood concerns about little things helps Springfield police form relationships with residents, Clapprood said. That makes people more willing to come forward to report bigger things.

Its a two-way street, she said.

Community trust is another factor that can skew the FBI statistics, said Dunton, the Western New England University professor. If members of a community lack trust in the police, they may not report crimes, and those numbers would not appear in the Uniform Crime Report, he said.

He referred to a Department of Justice Bureau of Justice Statistics survey that estimated fewer than half of victims of violent crime ever notify police.

The 2019 survey estimated that violent-crime victims report to the police only 41% of the time. The reporting rate for white victims was 37%, while for Black and Hispanic victims it was 49%.

While the numbers in the FBI report are trending down, and have been for some time, there is a perception among many in the public that the reverse is true  that crime is out of control.

As recently as a year ago, a Gallup survey showed 64% of respondents felt crime has gotten worse. This is an increase of 4 percentage points from 2018.

Dunton said the public perception of crime will always differ from what is shown in the data. Most people will never read the Uniform Crime Report, he said.

Politicians, members of the press, and now social media continually emphasize crime, and that helps shape perception.

It gets people riled up that crime is increasing, he said. We have a president campaigning on law and order.

Dunton said it will be interesting to see the results of the 2020 edition of the Uniform Crime Report.

The 2019 edition is based on data from before the coronavirus pandemic and the resulting recession and lockdown, and before any of the protests and rioting in the aftermath of the police killing of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor.

Dunton said a lot of crimes, such as homicides, assaults and robberies, are the result of people encountering each other in public places. The lockdown eliminated a lot of that, he said.

And historically, robberies, larcenies and burglaries have always increased in times of economic hardship. At the peak of the shutdown, nearly 17 million people were unemployed.

Its going to be interesting, Dunton said of next years report. Theyre going to have to have a lot of written asterisks.

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Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 07:51:23|Editor: huaxia

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Pedestrians wearing masks walk on the road amid COVID-19 outbreak in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Sept. 30, 2020. Brazil again exceeded 1,000 daily deaths caused by COVID-19 after registering 1,031 fatalities from the disease in the past 24 hours, raising the death toll to 143,952, the government said on Wednesday. (Photo by Rahel Patrasso/Xinhua)

RIO DE JANEIRO, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- Brazil again exceeded 1,000 daily deaths caused by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) after registering 1,031 fatalities from the disease in the past 24 hours, raising the death toll to 143,952, the government said on Wednesday.

According to the Ministry of Health, it was the first time Brazil had surpassed 1,000 deaths a day since Sept. 15, when 1,113 people died.

In addition, tests detected 33,413 new cases of infection in the past 24 hours, bringing the total caseload to 4,810,935.

The state-run Oswaldo Cruz Foundation recommended COVID-19 prevention measures be reinforced in the northern state of Amazonas and its capital Manaus, due to a rise in new cases.

Manaus was one of the initial epicenters of Brazil's outbreak, but managed to quickly reduce the high number of cases and deaths it registered in April and May.

In recent weeks, experts warned a second wave of the virus could hit the city of 2.2 million inhabitants. Enditem
Parts of Britain are set to experience hail, thunder and winds of up to 65mph on Friday as Storm Alex makes landfall in southern England and the Channel Islands.

On Thursday, most of the UK will enjoy sunny spells and the odd shower, but there will be heavier rain in northern Scotland and a risk of hail and thunder in Wales.Temperatures will struggle to reach highs of 16C, on what will largely be a fairly chilly day.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for wind and rain throughout Friday until 8pm, spreading along the south coast from Cornwall to Hastings.

The government forecasters warn that flooding of homes and businesses in urban areas is likely, with up to 50mm of rain expected, while some coastal communities are set to be affected by spray and large waves.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 18 January 2022 Surfers enter the sea as the sun rises over Tynemouth on the North East coast PA UK news in pictures 17 January 2022 Bonhams Danny McIlwraith holds a Nigerian polycrome carved wood mask during a photocall for the sale of the Jim Lennon Collection at Bonhams in Edinburgh PA UK news in pictures 16 January 2022 The moon rises above the Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth, Hampshire PA UK news in pictures 15 January 2022 Demonstrators outside Downing Street during a Kill The Bill protest against The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill in London PA UK news in pictures 14 January 2022 Ecologist Emma Smart (left) and retired GP Dr Diana Warner outside HMP Bronzefield, in Surrey, following their release from the prison where Emma undertook a 26-day hunger strike during her incarceration. Ms Smart was sentenced in November, along with other members of Insulate Britain, to serve four months for breaking a High Court injunction by taking part in a blockade at junction 25 of the M25 motorway during the morning rush hour on 8 October last year PA UK news in pictures 13 January 2022 A TV presenter holds a copy of a newspaper outside 10 Downing Streetafter the Prime Minister apologised for attending a gathering of colleagues in the Number Ten garden in May 2020, while the UK was in strict lockdown due to the Coronavirus pandemic Getty UK news in pictures 12 January 2022 Fitness guru Derrick Evans after receiving an MBE during an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 11 January 2022 A couple walk underneath an umbrella during wet weather on Westminster Bridge in central London PA UK news in pictures 10 January 2022 A jogger passes the Covid Memorial Wall in London AP UK news in pictures 9 January 2021 The sun rises over horses at Seaton Sluice in Northumberland PA UK news in pictures 8 January 2022 Riders compete during the Veterans Men's race at the UK Cyclo-Cross National Championships 2022 in Ardingly, south of London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 7 January 2022 A dog looks out of a car window at the wintry conditions in Killeshin, Co. Laois PA UK news in pictures 6 January 2022 People walk through frost and mist alongside a frozen lake during sunrise in Bushy Park, London REUTERS UK news in pictures 5 January 2022 A skier jumps on the slopes at Allenheads in the Pennines to the north of Weardale in Northumberland PA UK news in pictures 4 January 2022 Freshly-fallen snow covers houses in Corbridge, near Hexham in Northumberland PA UK news in pictures 3 January 2022 Dean Morrison, 13, receives his Covid-19 vaccine from student nurse Anthony McLaughlin during a vaccination clinic at the Glasgow Central Mosque PA UK news in pictures 2 January 2022 Konastantinos Tsimikas of Liverpool with Chelseas Mason Mount during the Premier League match at Stamfrod Bridge Liverpool FC/Getty UK news in pictures 1 January 2022 New Years Eve Lasers, drones and fireworks illuminate the sky in front of the Royal Naval College in Greenwich shortly after midnight in London EPA UK news in pictures 31 December 2021 Competitors in fancy dress run across the Pennine tops near Haworth, West Yorkshire, in the annual Auld Lang Syne Fell race which attracts hundreds of runners every year PA UK news in pictures 30 December 2021 Sunrise at Bamburgh Castle in Northumberland PA UK news in pictures 29 December 2021 The Very Revd Dr Robert Willis, Dean of Canterbury Cathedral, looks at Becket, a six month old red-billed chough as he visits Wildwood Wildlife Park in Kent on the anniversary of the murder of Thomas Becket PA UK news in pictures 28 December 2021 Troops of the Household Cavalry are seen reflected in a puddle during the changing of the Queens Life Guard, on Horse Guards Parade, in central London PA UK news in pictures 27 December 2021 A pedestrian walks past a winter sale sign outside a John Lewis store on Oxford street in London Getty UK news in pictures 26 December 2021 Riders take their bikes through the snow near Castleside, County Durham PA UK news in pictures 25 December 2021 Patrick Corkery wears a santa hat and beard as waves crash over him at Forty Foot near Dublin during a Christmas Day dip PA UK news in pictures 24 December 2021 People stand inside Kings Cross Station on Christmas Eve in London Reuters UK news in pictures 23 December 2021 Christmas shoppers fill the car park at Fosse Shopping Park in Leicester PA UK news in pictures 22 December 2021 The sun rises behind the stones as people gather for the winter solstice at Stonehenge. Getty UK news in pictures 21 December 2021 People take part in a winter solstice swim at Portobello Beach in Edinburgh to mark the solstice and to witness the dawn after the longest night of the year PA UK news in pictures 20 December 2021 An auction employee displays poultry to buyers and sellers attending the Christmas Poultry Sale at York Auction Centre in Murton PA UK news in pictures 19 December 2021 Joao Moutinho of Wolverhampton Wanderers looks on during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Chelsea at Molineux Getty Images UK news in pictures 18 December 2021 Freight lorries queuing at the port of Dover in Kent PA UK news in pictures 17 December 2021 Newly elected Liberal Democrat MP Helen Morgan, bursts 'Boris' bubble' held by colleague Tim Farron, as she celebrates following her victory in the North Shropshire by-election PA UK news in pictures 16 December 2021 Brussels sprouts are harvested by workers as they prepare for the busy Christmas period near Boston in Lincolnshire PA UK news in pictures 15 December 2021 Lewis Hamilton is made a Knight Bachelor by the Prince of Wales at Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 14 December 2021 The Royal Liver Buildings surrounded by early morning fog in Liverpool PA UK news in pictures 13 December 2021 People queue outside a walk-in Covid-19 vaccination centre at St Thomas's Hospital in Westminster Getty Images UK news in pictures 12 December 2021 People take part in the Big Leeds Santa Dash in Roundhay Park, Leeds PA UK news in pictures 11 December 2021 People arrive at a Covid-19 vaccination centre at Elland Road in Leeds, PA UK news in pictures 10 December 2021 Stella Moris speaks to the media after the US Government won its High Court bid to overturn a judges decision not to extradite WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange PA UK news in pictures 9 December 2021 Camels are lead around Salisbury Cathedral during a rehearsal for the Christmas Eve Service PA UK news in pictures 8 December 2021 Margaret Keenan and Nurse May Parsons, a year after Margaret was the first person in the UK to receive the Pfizer vaccine PA UK news in pictures 7 December 2021 Snowfall in Leadhills, South Lanarkshire as Storm Barra hits the UK with disruptive winds, heavy rain and snow PA UK news in pictures 6 December 2021 A person tries to avoid sea spray on New Brighton promenade in Wallasey as the UK readies for the arrival of Storm Barra Getty UK news in pictures 5 December 2021 People release balloons during a tribute to six-year-old Arthur Labinjo-Hughes outside Emma Tustin's former address in Solihull, West Midlands, where he was murdered by his stepmother PA UK news in pictures 4 December 2021 People walk through a Christmas market in Trafalgar Square Reuters UK news in pictures 3 December 2021 A pedestrian carries a dog as they dodge shoppers on Oxford Street in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 2 December 2021 Duchess of Cambridge inspects a Faberge egg at the Victoria and Albert Museum Getty UK news in pictures 1 December 2021 Meerkats at London Zoo with an advent calendar PA UK news in pictures 30 November 2021 Workers put the finishing touches to the Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree ahead of the lighting ceremony later in the week PA

Travel disruption in Englands south is also likely, the Met Office said, warning motorists and passengers on trains, ferries and planes could experience difficulties, particularly in the morning rush hour.

Meteo-France has named Storm Alex, a deep area of low pressure, which will generate well over half a months rainfall and some very strong winds of between 45 and 65mph.

Thats enough that we could see some trees being blown down, particularly at this time of year when they can still have a lot of leaves," said Met Office meteorologist Alex Burkill. So with the heavy rain wetting the ground and the strong winds, thats likely to cause some localised impacts.

While the storms effects will be felt keenly across southern England, eventually reaching Sheffield and Liverpool on Friday afternoon, the Channel Islands will bear the brunt of it as it passes over northwestern France.

Meanwhile, other parts of the country will enjoy clearer skies, with patches of frost in the morning and lingering fog. Its not too bad a day, really," Mr Burkill said. Its going to be mostly dry with lengthy sunny spells  on the whole a very different picture.

Looking ahead to the weekend, the only glimmer of hope is the opportunity for schadenfreude in the south, as the rest of the country is hit by similar levels of wind and rain.

An intense front is set to hit from the southeast on Saturday morning, meaning everywhere is going to have a very wet day, though there will be some dry periods amongst it, Mr Burkill said.

The unsettled weather will continue on Sunday, with low pressure across the UK bringing persistent rain across many parts of the UK.

While there are no weather warnings issued yet, Mr Burkill said this may change as meteorologists assess the impending weather front in the coming days.
The tiny town of Marfa wasn't always a hip area for artists. Before the migration of creative types to this small speck of desert in west Texas, Marfa was a train city with lines rumbling right through town.

Even today, the train is such a presence in Marfa, says Lauren Meader Fowlkes of Far West Texas Realty. She's the listing agent for a decommissioned caboose now on the market for $285,000. "Were a town built around the rail line."

Now, in a fun nod to the towns railroad history, this Santa Fe Railroad steel caboose seeks a new owner. Built in 1948 as one of three for the rail company, the caboose was pulled out of service in 1984. The train car weighs just shy of 60,000 pounds.

The current owner has owned the caboose for years.

She bought it for her 40th birthday, explains Meader Fowlkes. Theyve had it in their backyard in Hamilton, TX, for all these years. Other than the Union Pacific, they are the second owner.

They recently relocated it to Marfa, and are now ready to bid it a fond farewell.

Local zoning already makes bunking in this 400-square-foot caboose legal, and its classified as a single-family dwelling.

These train cars were built for someone to live in every day, says Meader Fowlkes.

Wondering why theres no cupola atop this particular caboose? Theres a reason: A cupola would have made passing through the tunnels on the Santa Mita rail line impossible.

Interior realtor.com

Interior realtor.com

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What will need to be done to turn this caboose into a home?

While there's a half-bath in the caboose, the stove was taken out of service, says Meader Fowlkes. In order to live in this, you would need to do some upgrades to the plumbing, and add a shower.

Its truly a very robust structure, she says, likening the cabooses aesthetic to Marfas Crowley Theatre, which is located inside a former feed store.

Its deteriorated in a very attractive way, says Meader Fowlkes, who adds that the buyer could either strip it down to the metal Airstream-style or retain its distressed and weathered exterior.

Maybe this is a really fantastic office? she suggests. Or perhaps a unique Airbnb listing?

Our short-term rental market has maintained strong during the pandemic, she adds.

And bonus for a buyer: The caboose sits on a double lot with room to build. So a buyer could erect an additional structure and keep the caboose for guest quarters, or relocate it altogether as the sellers just did.

Lots of people use cabooses for the backyard. It would be possible to use this on another lot, says Meader Fowlkes.

The post Train Car for Sale in Marfa, TX, Could Be a Cool Getaway Plan appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com.
I recently read with great interest an Oct. 1 letter to the editor from Huey Harrison, who voiced concerns about C-SPANs commemorations of th
WASHINGTON (AP)  After more than a year of circling each other, Republican President Donald Trump and Democratic challenger Joe Biden met on the debate stage Tuesday night in Ohio.

The 74-year-old president and the 77-year-old former vice president are similar in age, and they share a mutual dislike. But they differ starkly in style and substance. All of that was evident from the outset on the Cleveland stage.

Here are key takeaways from the first of three scheduled presidential debates before Election Day on Nov. 3.

TRUMP'S SERIAL INTERRUPTIONS

Trump is no stranger to going on offense, but his aggressive posture on stage left his Democratic opponent fighting to complete a sentence. Trump frequently interrupted Biden mid-sentence, sometimes in intensely personal ways.

"There's nothing smart about you," Trump said of Biden. "47 years you've done nothing."

While Trump played into his reputation as a bully, it may have been effective at breaking up the worst of Biden's attacks  simply by talking over them.

Trump aides believed before the debate that Biden would be unable to withstand the withering offensive on style and substance from Trump, but Biden came with a few retorts of his own, calling Trump a "clown" and mocking Trump's style by asking, "Will you shut up, man?"

Trump's supporters may have been cheered by his frontal assault. Whether undecided voters, who watched the debate to try to learn about the two candidates, were impressed is another matter.

Moderator Chris Wallace was none too amused, delivering a pointed reproach to Trump for his interruptions. "Frankly, you've been doing more interrupting," Wallace said, appealing to Trump to let his opponent speak.

TRUMP CAN'T ESCAPE THE VIRUS

Trump has wanted the election to be about anything but the coronavirus pandemic, but he couldn't outrun reality on the debate stage.

"It is what it is because you are who you are," Biden told the president, referring to Trump's months of downplaying COVID-19 while he said privately he understood how deadly it is.

But Trump didn't take it quietly. He proceeded to blitz Biden with a mix of self-defense and counter-offensives. 200,000 dead? Biden's death toll would have been "millions," Trump said. A rocky economy? Biden would've been worse. Biden wouldn't have manufactured enough masks or ventilators.

The kicker: "There will be a vaccine very soon."

Biden fell back on his bottom line: "A lot of people died, and a lot more are going to unless he gets a lot smarter."

For voters still undecided about who'd better handle the pandemic, the exchange may not have offered anything new.

RACIAL RECKONING

Trump said Biden was the politician who helped put millions of Black Americans in prison with the 1994 crime law. Biden called Trump "the racist" in the Oval Office.

For a nation confronting a summer of racial unrest  and centuries of injustice  the debate was the latest cultural flashpoint.

Biden was quiet as Trump blitzed him as a tool of the "radical left" and a weak figure who opposes "law and order." He pressed Biden repeatedly to name any police union that's endorsed him. He falsely accused Biden of wanting to "defund the police."

Biden didn't capitalize when Trump refused to condemn armed militias and insisted, against the guidance of his own FBI director: "This is not a right-wing problem. This is a left-wing problem."

"Proud Boys, stand back and stand by," Trump said when pressed on the far-right group. "But I'll tell you what, somebody's got to do something about antifa and the left."

The former vice president tried to push back, but not until after Trump had made his arguments, including the misrepresentations.

Biden regained some footing mocking the president's warnings about suburbs, saying, "He wouldn't know a suburb unless he took a wrong turn." And perhaps revealing the thinking about allowing Trump the rhetorical upper hand, Biden said, "All these dog whistles and racism doesn't work anymore."

QUESTION ABOUT COURT, ANSWER ABOUT HEALTH CARE

Trump defended his decision to nominate Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court just weeks before Election Day, saying "elections have consequences."

Biden said he was "not opposed to the justice," but said the "American people have a right to have a say in who the Supreme Court nominee is."

But rather than litigate Republicans' 2016 blocking of Merrick Garland to the high court, Biden quickly pivoted to the issues that will potentially come before the court: healthcare and abortion. It's an effort by the Democrat to refocus the all-but-certain confirmation fight for Trump's third justice to the Supreme Court into an assault on Trump and his record.

Biden said Barrett, who would be the sixth justice on the nine-member court to be appointed by a Republican, would endanger the Affordable Care Act and tens of millions of Americans with preexisting conditions, and would imperil legalized abortion. It was a reframing of the political debate to terms far more favorable to the Democrat, and one Trump played into. Trump said of the conservative Barrett, "You don't know her view on Roe vs. Wade" and he defended his efforts to try to chip away at the popular Obama-era health law.

Biden has tried to press Democrats to use the court confirmation fight as a rallying cry against Trump, and the debate discussion largely played out on his turf.

'INVISIBLE' WALLACE STRUGGLES TO CONTAIN TRUMP

Debate moderator Chris Wallace of Fox News tried mightily to hold his ground Tuesday after saying beforehand that it was not his job to fact-check the candidates, especially Trump, in real time.

But Wallace struggled to stop Trump from interrupting and at times seemed to lose control of the debate.

"Mr. President, as the moderator, we are going to talk about COVID in the next segment," Wallace said.

Soon after: "I'm the moderator, and I'd like you to let me ask my question."

Minutes later: "I have to give you roughly equal time. Please let the vice president talk."

And when Wallace noted that Trump hasn't come up with his health care plan in nearly four years, Trump turned the question back on Wallace.

"First of all, I'm debating you and not him. That's okay. I'm not surprised."

Wallace said he wanted to be "invisible."

Well, that was impossible.

FAMILY BUSINESS

As expected, Trump found a way to bring up Hunter Biden, the former vice president's son, and recycle allegations about the younger Biden's international business practices. Biden called Trump's litany "discredited" and fired back, "I mean, his family we can talk about all night."

But Biden sidestepped any of the specifics of Trump's international business dealings and instead turned straight to the camera. "This is not about my family or his family," Biden said as Trump tried to talk over him. "This is about your family."

In a later exchange, Trump interrupted Biden when he was talking about his late son, Beau Biden, who died of cancer in 2015 after having served in Iraq.

"I don't know Beau, I know Hunter," Trump said.

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According to Abdulrazaque Bello-Barkindo, spokesman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), Zulum spoke when he hosted some governors in Ma...

According to Abdulrazaque Bello-Barkindo, spokesman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), Zulum spoke when he hosted some governors in Maiduguri, the state capital, on Wednesday.

Suspected Boko Haram insurgents have attacked his convoy twice in the last five days.

The governor reportedly said despite the attacks, he would not be deterred from pursuing his goals.

Zulum pleaded with the federal government to ensure that Chadian soldiers are invited to join the Nigeria Army in the fight against insurgency if any meaningful success is to be recorded on the battleground, the statement read.

Zulum rationalised that no single army anywhere in the world has ever succeeded in quelling insurgency and requested that the government looked into ways of complementing the efforts of the Nigeria Army with the Chadian soldiers, emphasising it is not to undermine the Nigerian soldiers but to help them in finishing the job within a realistic deadline.

The situation in our State has become very dire because, everything calls for endurance, commitment and dedication if our people were to be drawn out of the woods.

Chad Basin used to employ about 10 million people while the Sambisa Grazing Reserve and the Mandara Mountains used to employ about 3 million people but the insurgents have made these places inaccessible to the people.

Kayode Fayemi, chairman of NGF who led the delegation, said an attack against one is an attack against all while expressing support for the Borno governor.

Fayemi also announced a donation of N100million to the state government.

Dr Fayemi admonished Prof Zulum to exercise caution in his activities in the state, even though he narrated how the Borno Governor always responded by saying that his life was in the hands of Allah and that death will only come when Allah wills, the statement read.

The NGF Chairman announced a donation of one hundred million Naira to the Government and people of Borno State from the NGF before handing the cheque over to the Borno governor.

About 1200 Chadian troops deployed in the Lake Chad area in the north-east alongside Nigerian troops withdrew from the area in January after the end of their mission.

Later in April, the Chadian troops launched an offensive against Boko Haram in the Goje-Chadian area of Sambisa forest, capturing arms store believed to be one of the largest owned by the insurgents.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 1 : With Covid cases spiking at an alarming rate in Kerala, the state government, in an order issued on Thursday night, banned assembly of more than five people.

The new order, which will be in place from October 3 to October 31, says that the measure has been taken to enforce social distancing, and for this, Section 144 of the CrPC can be used.

District Magistrates have been given the freedom to use Section 144 to control the spread of Covid.

However, the order will not be applicable to marriages, where 50 people can be present, and funerals, which can be attended by a maximum of 20 people.

On Thursday, for the second successive day, daily Covid cases in Kerala crossed the 8,000 mark, at 8,135, while the total active cases reached 72,339.

Last week, an all-party meeting, called by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, had ruled out a total lockdown but agreed that rules can be tightened.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 23:05:53|Editor: huaxia

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BAGHDAD, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- The Iraqi Health Ministry on Thursday said that it plans to establish 20 new COVID-19 testing labs to increase the country's testing capacity.

"The current number of coronavirus testing laboratories in the country is 40, and the ministry is planning to establish 20 more labs during the current month," director of the Health Ministry's Laboratories Duraid Qasim Jasim told the official Iraqi News Agency (INA).

Meanwhile, the Iraqi health ministry reported 4,493 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the total nationwide infections to 367,474.

The ministry also reported 50 more deaths, raising the death toll from the infectious virus to 9,231 in the country.

It also said that 3,685 more patients recovered in the day, bringing the total number of recoveries to 295,882.

The new cases were recorded after 23,522 testing kits were used across the country during the day, and a total of 2,289,877 tests have been carried out since the outbreak of the disease, according to the statement.

Iraq has taken a series of measures to contain the pandemic since February when the first coronavirus case appeared in the country.

China has been helping Iraq fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

From March 7 to April 26, a Chinese team of seven medical experts spent 50 days in Iraq to help contain the disease, during which they helped build a PCR lab and install an advanced CT scanner in Baghdad.

Since March 7, China has also sent three batches of medical aid to Iraq. Enditem
French Prime Minister Jean Castex has said there would be no immediate tightening of Covid-19 restrictions after discussions with mayors of five major cities. The meeting was called after Marseille's mayor slammed as "incomprehensible" and "disproportionate" last week's decision to force bars and restaurants in the southern city to close.

The Prime Minister Jean Castex held face-to-face meetings with Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo on Thursday morning, followed by Lyon's mayor Gregory Doucet and the mayor of Lille, Martine Aubry.

The other meetings, with Grenoble's Eric Piolle and Jean-Luc Moudenc of Toulouse, were held via video links.

Castex discussed the Covid-19 situation with the mayor of Marseille Michele Rubirola on Wednesday.

The prime minister reassured the mayors that no new restrictions would come into force for the next 15 days, but that the numbers would be closely scrutinised.

The meetings came ahead of the health minister Olivier Veran's weekly Covid press conference, due at 6pm local time on Thursday.

Despite speculation of harsher measures, Veran is not expected to announce a change to the alert classification of major French cities, but instead emphasise the importance of maintaining the restrictions already in place and appeal to citizens' sense of responsibility.

More consultation needed

The government has been accused of insufficiently consulting local representatives on handling the crisis, a point that was raised during a meeting on Wednesday with the Association of French Mayors (AMF), headed by Francois Baroin.

Last Thursday, politicians and business owners in Marseille and Aix-en-Provence reacted angrily to the government's announcement that the area would face tougher restrictions, including the total closure of bars and restaurants for at least 15 days.

Michele Rubirola pointed to the extreme economic burden placed on a sector which had already suffered from the lockdown in March and a slow tourist season in summer.

In response to these concerns, economy minister Bruno Le Maire announced a financial aid package for restaurant owners in the areas forced to close, promising relief funds between 1,500 and 10,000 euros per month and full coverage of pay to temporarily laid-off staff to the end of the year.

Two maximum risk zones

Aix-en-Provence and Marseille, along with the island of Guadeloupe are, for the moment, the only two regions classified as 'maximum risk' due to the spike in the number of Covid-19 cases, and the number of hospitalisations.

The major cities of Lille, Toulouse, Saint-Etienne, Paris and its inner suburbs, Rouen, Grenoble, Montpellier and Rennes are all currently classified as on 'reinforced alert', the second highest category.

In these cities, restaurants and bars have been ordered to close at 10pm, and fitness clubs and gyms have also had to close.

Eric Piolle, the mayor of Grenoble, said prior to the meeting with Castex that he understood why it was necessary to prevent hospitals from becoming overwhelmed, but said that the government had not consulted regional representatives enough on the situation.

He also said it was important to interpret the statistics in more detail and carefully adapt the response to each situation.

Coherent message needed

The government must be more coherent in its message, he stressed.

For example, when we close bars, students don't understand why they're not allowed to have fun, so they'll organize parties in private spaces which the police will not be able to control, he says.

The mayor of Lyon, Gregory Doucet said his exchange with Castex was cordial and republican and that they agreed on the main points over handling the crisis, but he echoed Piolle on the need to have a better understanding of the data before rushing to enforce blanket rules.

He requested that the regulation concerning the closure of bars at 10pm be lifted, a measure which is to be discussed with the head of police on Friday.

Martine Aubry was content to announce that the greater Lille area would stay in its current classification for the time being, and see no further restrictions for the next 15 days, unless the situation dramatically worsened.

"We will do everything we can," Martine Aubry told French media, "to tell people to 'be careful, this is very serious, please respect the rules,'" so that we don't end up having to close all bars completely as in Marseille.

How does the government decide on the zones?
Armenian News - NEWS.am presents a daily digest of Armenia-related top news as of 01.10.2020 amid the Azerbaijani aggression in Nagorno-Karabakh:

NKR SHARES PHOTOS

https://news.am/eng/news/605408.html

Artsakh defense ministry has shared photos of the consequences of the shelling of peaceful settlements by Azerbaijan.

On September 27, the Azerbaijani Armed Forces launched an offensive along the entire length of the contact line in Karabakh.

Both Armenia and Azerbaijan have declared martial law and mobilized their armed forces.

FIRES IN ARMENIA

https://news.am/eng/news/605407.html

Armenian defense ministry spokesperson Shushan Stepanyan took to her Facebook to share an update on the Nagorno-Karabakh clashes.

According to her, the Azerbaijani Armed Forces fired on Vardenis-Sotk road in Armenia.

LAVROV, CAVUSOGLU

https://news.am/eng/news/605420.html

Foreign Ministers of Russia and Turkey Sergei Lavrov and Mevlut Cavusoglu thoroughly discussed the escalation of tension around Nagorno-Karabakh.

According to the press service of the Russian Foreign Ministry, the ministers expressed serious concern over the ongoing armed confrontation and spoke in favor of an immediate cessation of hostilities. The inadmissibility of the involvement of militants of illegal armed formations from other regions in the conflict was noted.

INJURED REPORTERS

https://news.am/eng/news/605411.html

Artsakh government will take care of transporting wounded French journalists from Stepanakert to Yerevan.

Karabakh doctors on Thursday operated on two journalists of the Le Monde.

The journalists of the world-famous Le Monde came under fire from the Azerbaijani Armed Forces in Martuni, and were seriously injured.

MACRON ON SITUATION

https://news.am/eng/news/605423.html

There is no justification for the strikes that were made from the territory of Azerbaijan on Sunday, President of France Emmanuel Macron declared as soon as he arrived at the EU Summit in Brussels.

According to him, France will do everything possible for the rapid cessation of the conflict.

Macron added that he told President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev about this.
ALLIANCE, Ohio - Joe Biden had come to town, but it was not exactly easy to see him. The Democratic nominee, traveling through eastern Ohio on a chartered train, had stopped here for a socially distanced speech and news conference, with invited guests gathered at the station. Across the tracks, hundreds of people rallied, unable to hear the candidate. Even if they'd wanted to, supporters of President Donald Trump had brought a sound system, alternating loudly between songs including "God Bless the USA" and audio clips of Biden's gaffes.

"He's doing an interview right now - let's make sure he hears us!" one Republican organizer shouted through a bullhorn. "Former Democrats for Trump! Let's hear you!"

Biden supporters outnumbered the Trump supporters, barely. Nobody was surprised. Until the past few weeks, Ohio was seen as a lock for the Trump campaign, a swing state that had swung, thanks to conservative Democrats in this part of Ohio walking away from the party. Biden's campaign, which bought a few ads around the party's August convention, has expanded its buy, adding ads in the Mahoning Valley media market that Democrats lost badly four years ago.

But unlike some parts of the Midwest, which moved back toward Democrats in 2016, eastern and Appalachian Ohio stayed red in 2018. Household names who'd won it easily before, such as Democratic U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown, saw their vote share decline. The Democrats' post-debate optimism is running up against decades-long trends, and local Republican parties that have successfully defined themselves around the president - antiabortion, pro-police and against laissez-faire trade deals. Biden's stops, which focused on health care and tax fairness, were designed to give voters another, more populist option.

Biden's six-city tour was focused mostly on places where Hillary Clinton's 2016 campaign had cratered. "I think some we can win back; others, it's about cutting the margin," Biden told reporters late Wednesday, when the tour was over. "A lot of White, working-class Democrats thought we forgot them and didn't pay attention. I want them to know I mean sincerely that I'm going to be your president, I hear them, I listen to them. I get it. I get their sense of being left behind."

Democrats have said that about rural areas and working-class White voters across the country. Ohio, until recently, seemed too far out of reach. President Barack Obama won it by three points in 2012, not far off his national margin in the popular vote. Democrats, having watched nervously as thousands of their eastern Ohio voters pulled Republican primary ballots to support Trump, were hopeful that Trump's unpopularity in suburbs would override any losses in rural areas. They were wrong. Clinton lost the state by nine points, far behind her average across the country.

Just as the exodus of White working-class Democrats had turned West Virginia into a red state, just as it had ended Missouri's decades-long status as a bellwether, fate seemed to knock Ohio out of the front-line swing states. In 2019, when the Democratic super PAC Priorities USA revealed its ad strategy for 2020, it notably left out Ohio. The explanation: "If Ohio is in play, we'll have already won the easier states and have 270 electoral votes."

That's still how Democrats view this state - flippable only if Biden is winning in a rout. Zack Space, a former Democratic congressman from the region who lost a statewide race for auditor in 2018, said he was surprised by how few former Democrats crossed back to support the party then, without Trump on the ballot. The difference-maker, he suggested, was Trump's focus on "the idea that there was an invasion of Mexicans, coming in a caravan." Trump might try that again, but the effects of the novel coronavirus might have loosened up his support.

"We all know that Biden's going to run up the score in urban and suburban areas, but the question is whether he can mitigate the damage in this region," Space said. "If he loses 42-58 instead of 35-65, he could pull out a win statewide. And I think that's possible. When I drive through, I see some Biden signs. Four years ago, the only Hillary Clinton signs I saw were 'Hillary for Prison.' "

Alliance, a city of 22,000 people that had lost a quarter of its population since the 1960s, was the sort of place that had elected Trump. It's split between Stark County, which had tended to break narrowly for the winner in statewide elections, and Mahoning County, which contains Youngstown, the biggest Democratic stronghold between Cleveland and Pittsburgh. Trump won Stark by 17 points and lost Mahoning by three. Every precinct between Youngstown and Alliance backed the president.

In interviews here, Democrats said they were encouraged to see less visible opposition to Biden than they'd seen for Clinton. But they did not see the kind of support Obama used to get, much less Bill Clinton.

"I kind of thought I was the only Biden voter in Alliance," said Tony Lamonica, a 64-year-old retired computer programmer who'd come down to the station to support the candidate.

The president's supporters were far more visible, even if they did not bother to join the peaceful protest of Biden. Daisy Blankenship, 35, who managed a store with her husband, had draped a Trump flag across its windows and planted more Trump signs in the yard, across from her son's toys.

"It's not the Democrats for the workers, like it uses to be. It's more about control," Blankenship said. "Keep everybody at home. Give them free cheese and a check in the mail." Asked about Trump's policies, she focused on his experience before entering the White House. "He's not a politician. He's a businessman. He's unique."

Other former Democrats - someof the voters who said they supported the president - had specific gripes with the party. It had become centered on "socialism." It had lurched toward "globalism." It had become too critical of police and supportive of civil unrest, an issue that had not reached yet fever pitch in 2016. And it had not worked as hard as Trump to renegotiate international trade deals.

"Bill Clinton was a good president," said Jody Burkey, 53, who said his scrap metal business had begun booming the day after Trump's election. "The economy was doing good at the time. But some of the things that he did - you know, the after-effects of NAFTA and whatnot - kind of destroyed our country."

Democrats had a theory that some of their lost voters could be brought back under the tent. Republicans had a reality: They kept adding voters and took special notice when those people said, proudly, that they had pulled Democratic ballots for years and never would again.

"When I moved here 15 years ago, the county was blue, top to bottom, just like Cleveland," said Cindy Spink, the GOP chairwoman of Ashtabula County - north of Youngstown, blue in 2012, and the site of a 19-point Trump victory in 2016. "And now we have Democrats who walk into our headquarters and say they're voting straight Republican, down the ticket. It just keeps happening. People are fed up."
Find all of the most important pandemic education news on Educating N.J., a special resource guide created for parents, students and educators. As schools reopen across N.J., we want to know what is and isnt working. Tell us about it here.

In-person instruction has been put on hold for more than two dozen schools in 22 districts across the state since the school year started because students and teachers have tested positive for the coronavirus.
Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-01 05:59:28|Editor: huaxia

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People wearing face masks walk on a street in Ankara, Turkey, on Sept. 26, 2020. (Xinhua/Mustafa Kaya)

-- Iran's total COVID-19 cases rise to 457,219;

-- Iraq's tally surges to 362,981;

-- Israel reports 8,568 new COVID-19 cases;

-- Saudi Arabia's tally hits 334,605..

CAIRO, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- Iran announced on Wednesday 3,582 new COVID-19 cases, raising the total number of confirmed infections to 457,219. Meanwhile, Iraq's tally surged to 362,981.

Sima Sadat Lari, spokeswoman for the Iranian Ministry of Health and Medical Education, said at her daily briefing that out of the 3,582 new cases, 1,567 patients required hospitalization.

She also said 183 deaths related to COVID-19 were registered between Tuesday and Wednesday, which takes the total death toll in Iran over the pandemic to 26,169 so far.

People wearing face masks walk beside Chitgar Lake in Tehran, Iran, on Sept. 29, 2020. (Xinhua/Ahmad Halabisaz)

Israel's Ministry of Health reported 8,568 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the total to 245,494. The number of death cases increased to 1,569, with 41 new fatalities. The number of recoveries rose to 174,506, with 6,702 new recoveries.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a meeting of his coronavirus cabinet on Wednesday that the exit from the COVID-19 lockdown is expected to last six to 12 months.

"The exit from this lockdown will be slow and gradual and it can last from half a year to a year," he said.

The Iraqi Health Ministry reported 4,691 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the nationwide infections to 362,981.

The ministry reported in a statement 59 new deaths from the infectious disease, taking the death toll to 9,181. Meanwhile, 3,385 more patients recovered from the disease, bringing the total number of recoveries to 292,197.

Jawad al-Musawi, a member of the Iraqi parliamentary health committee, expected that Iraq will witness a new wave of COVID-19 infections during October and November.

Al-Musawi added that the Iraqi authorities might reimpose a full curfew if the number of infections rises to the point the ministry cannot control.

People wearing face masks walk on a street in Rabat, Morocco, on Sept. 29, 2020. (Xinhua/Chadi)

Saudi Arabia on Wednesday reported 418 new COVID-19 cases, raising the tally of infections in the kingdom to 334,605.

The Saudi Ministry of Health also reported 29 new deaths from the disease, taking the death toll to 4,768, while the total number of recoveries increased by 612 to 319,154, while Turkey reported 1,391 new cases, bringing the tally to 318,663, and 65 new deaths, raising the death toll to 8,195.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced on Wednesday 1,100 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the total confirmed cases in the country to 94,190.

At the same time, 1,186 more patients have recovered from the virus, taking the tally of recoveries in the UAE to 83,724, the UAE's Ministry of Health and Prevention said. It also confirmed three more deaths, pushing up the country's death toll to 419.

Morocco announced 2,470 new COVID-19 infections, taking the tally of cases in the North African country since March 2 to 123,653.

The number of recoveries from the coronavirus in Morocco increased to 102,715 after 2,462 more were added, while the death toll rose by 42 to 2,194, the ministry of health said in a statement. The COVID-19 fatality rate in Morocco stands at 1.8 percent and the recovery rate is 83.1 percent.

Oman called for "equitable distribution of resources" to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic as the tally of infections in the sultanate reached 98,585 and the death toll rose to 935.

"The pandemic has brought major changes to our daily life," Omani Minister of Foreign Affairs Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamoud Al Busaidi said during his virtual address to the 75th session of the UN General Assembly.

The Qatari health ministry announced 227 new COVID-19 infections, raising the total number of confirmed cases in the Gulf state to 125,760, while the fatalities remained at 214 for the fifth consecutive day.

Kuwait reported 614 new COVID-19 cases and three more deaths, raising the tally of infections to 105,182 and the death toll to 610, the Health Ministry said in a statement.

The ministry also announced the recovery of 639 more patients, raising the total recoveries in the country to 96,688.

People wearing face masks walk on a street in Cairo, Egypt, on Sept. 29, 2020. (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa)

Egypt recorded late on Tuesday 124 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the total infections in the country to 103,079, said the Egyptian Health Ministry.

The ministry's spokesman Khaled Megahed said 13 patients died from the novel coronavirus in the past 24 hours, raising the death toll to 5,9140, and 508 others were cured and discharged from hospitals, taking the total recoveries to 96,094.

Lebanon's number of COVID-19 infections increased by 1,257 cases to 39,634 while the death toll went up by six to 367, the Health Ministry reported.

Health experts have been warning the Lebanese people about the further increase in infections as hospitals' capacity for hosting a big number of patients is limited.

A senior Palestinian official announced that the health ministry recorded 426 new COVID-19 cases, raising the total number in the West Bank, the Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem to 50,541.

The health ministry also recorded eight more deaths and 696 recoveries, bringing the total number of recoveries to 41,228 and the death toll to 368, said Mai al-Kaila, Palestinian minister of health.

The National Center for Disease Control of Libya reported 511 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the total confirmed cases in the country so far to 34,525.

The Center said in a statement that it received a total of 2,058 suspected samples, of which 511 were tested positive, adding 459 patients have recovered and 11 died. 
Two staff members have tested positive for Covid-19 at a nursing home in Tipperary.

The positive results followed on from the testing of staff at Greenhill Nursing Home in Carrick-on-Suir last Monday.

Public health measures have been put into immediate effect with the affected staff now self isolating.

The HSE is providing advice to nursing home management.

Visits to the nursing home have been suspended for the next 14 days.

In a letter to relatives, Shona O'Brien, director of nursing, said, "The key consideration in this regard is mitigating the transmission of the virus from the community into the nursing home.

"Visits are suspended until October 12 and we will continue to communicate any updates in this regard to resident representatives.

"Be assured we remain committed to proving all our residents with the best possible care during this health emergency. We are working closely with the HSE and public health colleagues to protect residents from the virus and support their healthcare needs."

Ms OBrien moved to reassure family members that nursing home staff, are working tremendously hard to ensure residents are receiving excellent care".

"We recognise not having in-person contact will prove extremely difficult and we will be facilitating remote contact to support engagement between you and your loved one," she said.

The ethos and values at Greenhill Nursing Home remain the same and we are committed to providing all residents with comfort and reassurance.

You will appreciate that huge sacrifices have to be made within nursing homes to protect our most vulnerable and we in Greenhill Nursing Home are no different."
Received import licences from Australia and Germany

Submitted application for export licences with Health Canada

On track to commence commercialization in both markets in 2021

TORONTO, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ - The Green Organic Dutchman Holdings Ltd. (the "Company" or "TGOD") (TSX: TGOD) (US: TGODF), a leading producer of premium certified organically grown cannabis, is pleased to announce that it has received import licences from the Australian and German authorities, and has applied for export licences with Health Canada.

These licences enable TGOD to export its premium certified organically grown products for validation. The Company anticipates validation will be completed by the end of the year and is on track to commence commercial export of medical cannabis products in 2021.

"TGOD was the first certified organic Canadian licensed producer to be granted an EU-GMP certificate. Today we are one step closer to fulfilling our vision of becoming the leading organic cannabis brand globally," commented Brian Athaide, CEO of TGOD. "Obtaining import licences from Australia and Germany is testament to the robust quality assurance system we have implemented across our operations and supply chain. We look forward to providing access to our high-quality products to Australian and German patients," added Athaide.

TGOD signed a distribution agreement with Australia's LeafCann and has access to a vast network in Europe through its wholly owned subsidiary, TGOD Europe. The Company expects to complete its first commercial shipment in 2021.

About The Green Organic Dutchman Holdings Ltd.

The Green Organic Dutchman Holdings Ltd. (TSX: TGOD ) (USOTC: TGODF) is a premium certified organically grown cannabis company focused on the health and wellness market. Its organic cannabis is cultivated in living soil, as nature intended. The Company is committed to cultivating a better tomorrow by producing its products responsibly, with less waste and impact on the environment. Its two Canadian facilities have been built to LEED certification standards and its products are sold in recyclable packaging. In Canada, TGOD sells dried flower and oil, and recently launched a series of nextgeneration cannabis products such as organic teas, dissolvables and vapes. Through its European subsidiary, HemPoland, the Company also distributes premium hemp CBD oil and CBD-infused topicals in Europe. By leveraging science and technology, TGOD harnesses the power of nature from seed to sale.

TGOD's Common Shares and warrants issued under the indentures dated November 1, 2017, December 19, 2019 and June 12, 2020 trade on the TSX under the symbol "TGOD", "TGOD.WT", "TGOD.WS" and "TGOD.WR", respectively, and TGODF trades in the US on the OTCQX. For more information on The Green Organic Dutchman Holdings Ltd., please visit www.tgod.ca .

Cautionary Statements

This news release includes statements containing certain "forwardlooking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law ("forwardlooking statements"). Forward looking statements in this release include, but are not limited to, statements about the completion of validation of the Company's products for international export, statements about the export of the Company's medical products for commercial purposes to Australia, Germany and other jurisdictions, statements about the timing of international sales of the Company's products and statements about the Company's ability to offer certain products in certain jurisdictions. Forwardlooking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "continue", "expect", "project", "intend", "should", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "may", "will", "potential", "proposed" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. These statements are only predictions. Various assumptions were used in drawing the conclusions or making the projections contained in the forwardlooking statements throughout this news release. Forwardlooking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties (including market conditions) and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forwardlooking statements, including those risk factors described in the Company's most recently filed Annual Information Form available on SEDAR. The Company is under no obligation, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation, to update or revise any forwardlooking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law.

Neither the TSX nor the TSX's Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of Toronto Stock Exchange) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE The Green Organic Dutchman Holdings Ltd.

Related Links

www.tgod.ca